cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Dynamic scaling of ferromagnetic micro-rod clusters under a weak magnetic field

A controlled configurational change of micro-clusters in suspensions is essential for many smart material applications. In this paper, the dynamic process of ferromagnetic microrod clusters (FMRCs) under an external magnetic field was studied as a function of the cluster size N and the applied field B. The FMRCs rearranged from a side-by-side raft-like structure to an end-to-end chain-like structure, originating from coupled motions through the field-driven alignment of both ferromagnetic microrods and FMRCs. A theoretical model based on an extension of a zig-zag chain was developed, and both the cluster length and orientation could be characterized by a retardation time constant τ, with a relationship τ ∼ N2/B, which agrees well with the experimental results, τ ∼ N2.2±0.2/B0.8±0.1. Such a model can be used to predict other cluster dynamics or the magneto-elastic behavior of other soft matters consisting of FMRCs.
Any normative policy analysis not based on Kaldor–Hicks efficiency violates scholarly transparency norms

Kaldor-Hicks efficiency is a fancy term that essentially conveys two ideas. The first idea is that all possible advantages and disadvantages of a legal rule need to be taken into account, people can't act as if some advantages or disadvantages do not exist. The second idea is that to the extent these advantages and disadvantages lead to conflicting recommendations, all of them should be balanced, and therefore require translation into a common unit of measurement; this can be dollars, utility, welfare, or happiness, but it has to be something. Kaldor-Hicks efficiency comes down to three imperatives: reveal all advantages and disadvantages you have in mind; reveal the meta-criterion you use for balancing them; and reveal all the empirical information and assumptions and make the best possible empirical guess of their magnitude. The Kaldor-Hicks criterion contains a balancing meta-norm; fairness maxim-based criteria contain one-sided meta-norms.
Human Bone Morphogenetic Protein Augmentation Grafting of Segmental Defects of the Lower Extremity

Nonunions or large segmental defects of long bones which have failed multiple surgical and conservative attempts at union are a significant problem and may be resistant to further standard surgical treatment. The implantation of a substance which induces primitive cells in the perinonunion area to undergo an osteogenetic pathway of development may represent a significant change in the management of the resistant nonunion or skeletal defects. This augmentation of the host healing response by the addition of human bone morphogenetic protein (hBMP) to cancellous autogeneic graft is the theoretical postulate used to definitively treat this series of resistant nonunions and skeletal defects.
Optimal operation of a community-based microgrid

This paper presents a model for the optimal operation of a community-based microgrid. The model introduces microgrid controller and consumer parameters and considers prevailing restrictions for the optimal operation of a microgrid. Mixed-integer programming (MIP) is used to formulate the microgrid problem. Test results show the effectiveness of the proposed model for the microgrid operation.
Effect of 17-oxo-DHA alone and in combination with gemcitabine on lung cancer cell growth

17-oxo-DHA is an endogenous anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory electrophilic derivative of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) omega-3 fatty acid. An antitumoral activity for DHA, alone or in combination with standard chemotherapy, was observed in animal models, in clinical studies and in “in vitro” studies. We hypothesized that 17-oxo-DHA might transduce, at least in part, the antitumoral effects of DHA. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of externally supplemented 17-oxo-DHA on the growth and chemosensitivity of lung cancer cells. A panel of histologically different human NSCLC cell lines (SK-MES-1, CALU-1, COLO699, A549, and COR-L23) was used. Cells were treated with or without the 17-oxo-DHA and the anticancer drug gemcitabine, alone or combined. Apoptosis was evaluated by flow cytometry on the basis of Annexin V binding and cell proliferation by a clonogenic assay. 17-oxo-DHA (50 µM, for 72 hrs) significantly increased the apoptosis and enhanced the proapoptotic effect of gemcitabine in all NSCLC cell lines. 17-oxo-DHA (50 µM, for 72 hrs) significantly reduced the proliferation and enhanced the antiproliferative effect of gemcitabine in all NSCLC cell lines. In conclusion, the combination of 17-oxo-DHA with gemcitabine results in an increased inhibitory effect on the NSCLC cell line growth. This indicates that 17-oxo-DHA is an potential therapeutic compound for the development of improved approaches for lung cancer treatment.
The Developing Bilingual Brain: What Parents and Teachers Should Know and Do

The field of neuroscience is now providing research findings about how the bilingual brain functions that can be used to promote richer and more successful dual-language development. This article summarizes recent research, then provides practical applications for parents and teachers of emergent bilinguals. Key understandings about how the brain processes first and subsequent languages are translated into ways to enrich instruction and family-based language and literacy experiences.
Standing on the Shoulders of Peers: Tournament-Style Remixing in Project Courses

All design is redesign: many real-world projects directly build on others' work. By contrast, course projects usually demand the opposite: learners must use their own work from start to finish. Drawing inspiration from peer production communities, we introduce tournament-style remixing into project-based assignments. Remixing reduces learners' path dependence, enabling them to diverge from their work on early assignments. Remixing also gives learners an up-close look at other approaches to the same project. Finally, remixing provides the opportunity to practice the real-world skill of elaborating upon the work of others. We present an early pilot of remixing in a design course project and discuss implications for learning.
Effect of Hallucinogens on Unconditioned Behavior

Because of the ethical and regulatory hurdles associated with human studies, much of what is known about the psychopharmacology of hallucinogens has been derived from animal models. However, developing reliable animal models has proven to be a challenging task due to the complexity and variability of hallucinogen effects in humans. This chapter focuses on three animal models that are frequently used to test the effects of hallucinogens on unconditioned behavior: head twitch response (HTR), prepulse inhibition of startle (PPI), and exploratory behavior. The HTR has demonstrated considerable utility in the neurochemical actions of hallucinogens. However, the latter two models have clearer conceptual bridges to human phenomenology. Consistent with the known mechanism of action of hallucinogens in humans, the behavioral effects of hallucinogens in rodents are mediated primarily by activation of 5-HT2A receptors. There is evidence, however, that other receptors may play secondary roles. The structure–activity relationships (SAR) of hallucinogens are reviewed in relation to each model, with a focus on the HTR in rats and mice.
Oculomotor systems and perception

This 2001 text was the first to emphasize the role of oculomotor systems in perception. Oculomotor systems that regulate eye movements play an important role in accounting for certain qualities of visual experience. They are implicated in a wide array of perceptual topics, from apparent size, depth, and distance, to apparent slant and vertical orientation. The text begins with a brief introduction to the basic characteristics of such oculomotor systems as those controlling vergence, pursuit, the vestibulo-ocular response, and saccadic eye movements. Also introduced are fundamental concepts in physiological optics. Next explored are mechanisms of perception, with a particular focus on eye movements, and the remarkably diverse implications of oculomotor research, which extend to motion sickness and life in space orbit. Insights into dysfunctional vision are also offered. This book complements standard texts on visual perception, yet may be read independently by those with a modest background in vision science.
Cancer Pain: Assessment

Pain is one of the most common and undertreated symptoms of cancer. Proper treatment of pain begins with its accurate assessment. New pain in a patient with malignancy should be assumed to be progression of the cancer until ruled out. Up to one quarter of cancer pain is secondary to cancer treatment, while the remainder is mostly related to the cancer’s physical relation to viscera, soft tissue, bone, muscle, or nerves. Physical exam, especially motor or sensory changes, can help localize tumor or metastases. Plain films are useful to diagnose fractures and viscera. Bone scans and CT are helpful to determine bone pathology or destruction, and MRI is useful to evaluate soft tissue.
Ten Years of High Explosive Cratering Research at Sandia Laboratory

Ten years of cratering research at Sandia Laboratory are reviewed and related, along with the work of others, to the development of explosive excavation technology.Single-charge experiments gave em...
Wearable Ring-Based Sensing Platform for Detecting Chemical Threats

This work describes a wireless wearable ring-based multiplexed chemical sensor platform for rapid electrochemical monitoring of explosive and nerve-agent threats in vapor and liquid phases. The ring-based sensor system consists of two parts: a set of printed electrochemical sensors and a miniaturized electronic interface, based on a battery-powered stamp-size potentiostat, for signal processing and wireless transmission of data. A wide range of electrochemical capabilities have thus been fully integrated into a 3D printed compact ring structure, toward performing fast square-wave voltammetry and chronoamperometric analyses, along with interchangeable screen-printed sensing electrodes for the rapid detection of different chemical threats. High analytical performance is demonstrated despite the remarkable miniaturization and integration of the ring system. The attractive capabilities of the wearable sensor ring system have been demonstrated for sensitive and rapid voltammetric and amperometric monitoring of...
Behçet's disease in the United States: A single center descriptive and comparative study.

Objective Behcet's disease is heterogeneous with clinical variability across ethnicities and geographic locations. The goal of this study was to analyze the clinical characteristics of our multi-ethnic Behcet's disease cohort at the University of Michigan. Material and methods A detailed patient characterization was performed. Differences in disease characteristics between men and women, and between patients fulfilling the International Criteria for Behcet's Disease (ICBD) and the International Study Group criteria (ISG) were determined in our cohort. Results A total of 114 patients with a male to female ratio of ~ 1:4 were included. All patients met the ICBD criteria, including 76 who also met the ISG criteria. Over 95% of patients had recurrent genital ulcers, which is higher than generally reported. Retinitis was 5.3 times more likely in men than in women (p=0.009), and arthralgia was 3.3 times more likely in women than men (p=0.048). When comparing cohorts derived from the two different criteria, the ISG cohort had more skin manifestations (OR=3.3, p=0.0006). Acneiform lesions were associated with ~8 times higher odds of developing retinitis in our patients (p=0.0008), and superficial thrombophlebitis was associated with a trend for higher odds of developing uveitis (OR=4.1, p=0.057). Using the ICBD criteria, 38 additional patients were identified compared to only using the ISG criteria. Of these patients, 28 presented with only mucosal ulceration with or without joint involvement. Conclusion We characterize Behcet's disease in a multi-ethnic cohort from North America. Using ICBD criteria in the United States significantly increases the likelihood of identifying Behcet's disease, particularly in patients with isolated mucosal involvement who constitute a substantial subset of patients in this region.
Pluralism as Modeling and as Confusion

We consider three levels of pluralism: (1) within mathematics, (2) with regard to philosophy of mathematics, and (3) personal pluralism.
On multiobjective generalized symmetric dual programs withρ − (η, θ)-invexity

A pair of multiobjective generalized symmetric dual nonlinear programming problems and weak, strong and converse duality theorems for these problems are established under generalized ρ − (η, θ)-invexity assumptions. Several known results are obtained as special cases.
Pioneer baby: suggestions for pre- and postnatal health promotion programs from rural English and Spanish-speaking pregnant and postpartum women

In the United States, more than 9 million rural women (15-44 years old) experience limited access and delivery of reproductive healthcare services. Rurality coupled with lower socio-economic status are associated with increased maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. The purpose of this qualitative study was to gain in-depth information from underserved English- and Spanish-speaking pregnant and postpartum rural women on what they would value in a health promotion program. Three focus group sessions were conducted exploring four domains: (1) physical activity, (2) dietary habits, (3) fetal movement/kick counts, and (4) breastfeeding and other support resources. Five overarching themes were observed across domains, with the following health promotion needs: (1) information on safe exercises, (2) advice on healthy food and drink, (3) breastfeeding support, (4) guidance on counting fetal movement, and (5) self- and peer-education. Study findings will inform intervention programming that aims to improve pregnancy and birth outcomes.
Regression Learning with Multiple Noisy Oracles

In regression learning, it is often difficult to obtain the true values of the label variables, while multiple sources of noisy estimates of lower quality are readily available. To address this problem, we propose a new Bayesian approach that learns a regression model from data with noisy labels provided by multiple oracles. The proposed method provides closed form solution for model parameters and is applicable to both linear and nonlinear regression problems. In our experiments on synthetic and benchmark datasets this new regression model was consistently more accurate than a model trained with averaged estimates from multiple oracles as labels.
Fixing the leaky pipeline: women scientists in academia

Although the number of women receiving doctorates and in academic positions has increased over the past 20 yr, females still are under-represented on university faculties. The extent of and reasons for this inequity are discussed. There are four critical periods that influence the retention of women in science: early childhood, adolescence, college, and the graduate school/job entry period. For each of the later three periods, the paper addresses the relationship between self-esteem and job performance, the quality and impacts of classroom interactions, and the role of the advisor/mentor. In addition, some of the difficulties in combining career and family responsibilities are considered. Effective networking and mentoring play an important role at the faculty level. If our goal is to have a scientific community open equally to all members of the general population, it is necessary to keep adolescent girls involved in math and science and to maintain their self-esteem. New faculty need to be more completely included in departmental and professional activities through both formal programs and good neighborliness on the behalf of existing faculty.
Epsilon-Substitution Method for the Ramified Language and $$\Delta _1^1$$-Comprehension Rule

The epsilon substitution method is based on the language introduced by Hilbert [7]. The main non-Boolean construction of this language is ∈xF[x], read as “an x satisfying the condition F[x]”. When x is numerical, it is interpreted as the least x satisfying F[x]. Existential and universal quantifiers become explicitly definable by \(\exists xF\left[ x \right]: = \left[ {F \in xF[x]} \right]\;and\;\forall xF\left[ x \right]: = F\left[ { \in x\neg [x]} \right].\)
Choosing an undergraduate major in business administration: Student evaluative criteria, behavioral influences, and instructional modalities

Abstract Although demand in the United States for business administration majors has historically been high, the supply of graduates in this discipline may be inadequate in the future. While some research indicates that numbers of students selecting a major in business administration has increased, other research reports the opposite. As such, it is important to identify key selection criteria used by students when considering whether or not to major in a business program. This study employed the theory of planned behavior and structural equation modeling, across three instructional modalities (face-to-face, online, and hybrid), to investigate undergraduate students' behavioral intention to major in business administration. An online survey provided 165 usable responses from students enrolled in an introductory management course with the three modalities represented. The results show that students' attitudes did not have a major effect on their intention to major in business administration, while subjective norm and perceived behavioral control effects did influence behavioral intention. No differences were noted in any of the instructional modalities influencing students' attitudes in choosing a business administration major. The findings add to existing research by illustrating how attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavior control relate to different instructional modalities and influence students’ selection process.
Abstract 143: Stroke Impairs Endothelial Cells Through Downregulation of Programed Death Ligand-1 Expression

Introduction: Stroke triggers a robust inflammatory response, allowing leukocytes to cross the blood brain barrier. T cells infiltrate in an antigen-independent manner early after injury, leading t...
Timing of complications following surgery for geriatric hip fractures.

Abstract Introduction Despite abundant literature present on complications following hip fracture surgery, few studies have focused on the timing of these complications. Materials and methods The 2015–2016 American College of Surgeons – National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was queried for patients ≥65 years of age undergoing hip fracture surgery, due to trauma, using CPT-Codes for total hip arthroplasty (27130), Hemiarthroplasty (27125) and Open Reduction/Internal Fixation (ORIF) (27236, 27244, 27245). For each complication being studied, the median time to diagnosis was determined along with the interquartile range (IQR). Cox-regression analyses were used to assess complication timings between various surgeries. Results A total of 31,738 were included in the final cohort. The median time of occurrence (days) for myocardial infarction was 2 [IQR 1–6], pneumonia 4 [IQR 2–12], stroke/CVA 3 [IQR 1–10], pulmonary embolism 5 [IQR 2–14], urinary tract infection (UTI) 8 [IQR 2–15], deep venous thrombosis (DVT) 9 [IQR 4–17], sepsis 11 [IQR 5–19], death 12 [IQR 6–20], superficial surgical site infection (SSI) 16 [IQR 12–22], deep SSI 23 [IQR 15–24] and organ/space SSI 19 [IQR 15–23]. Undergoing a THA vs. ORIF for hip fracture was associated a relatively early occurrence of pneumonia (day 3 [IQR 1–5.25]; p = 0.029) and urinary tract infection (day 4 [IQR 1–13]; p = 0.035) and a later occurrence of organ/space SSI (day 23.5 [IQR 19.5–26.75]; p = 0.002). Conclusion Orthopaedic trauma surgeons can utilize this data to optimize care strategies during the time-periods of highest risk to prevent complications from occurring early on in the course of post-operative care.
A Growth Curve Analysis of Self-Esteem and Depressive Symptomatology Throughout Emerging Adulthood: The Role of Family:

Research suggests family-level factors remain an important contributor to emerging adult mental health. Guided by the stress process framework, this study used latent growth curve modeling to exami...
Mean treatment cost of incident cases of penile cancer for privately insured patients in the United States

Abstract Purpose The aims of this study were to estimate the short-term cost of treating newly diagnosed penile cancer and determine the correlates of penile cancer treatment cost in the United States. Methods The Truven MarketScan database was used to identify commercially insured patients with penile cancer newly diagnosed during 2011 to 2014. A control group without HPV-related cancer diagnosis was selected by matching to the case group by the propensity score method. Total healthcare costs in the 2 years after the cancer diagnosis index date were measured for each patient. The mean difference between case and control groups was considered the cancer-related cost. For patients without complete 2-year data, a generalized linear regression was performed to predict cost for censored months and identify predictors associated with monthly cost. Results A total of 250 patients with newly diagnosed penile cancer and 250 matched controls were included in the study. The adjusted mean differential healthcare cost for penile cancer was $76,404 in the first 2 years. For the penile cancer group, cost peaked in month 1 at $10,202 and dropped substantially each month thereafter until month 7, when the cost was $4,295. After month 7, the monthly cost remained steady at $2,700 to $4,200. Conclusions The estimated average cost of penile cancer for insured patients in the United States was about $76,000 in the first 2 years after diagnosis. Monthly cost was directly related to age, length of follow-up, comorbidity score, and prediagnosis cost.
Assessing FES-induced muscle fatigue using ultrasound to determine the inverse neuromuscular model for optimal FES input

Functional electrical stimulation (FES) has been successful in activating paralyzed or paretic muscles to restore limb functions of individuals with impaired gait function. However, when activating the limb joint motion through externally stimulating muscle, rapid onset of muscle fatigue becomes a critical issue that results in injury. To overcome this challenge, an optimal FES input to the neuromuscular system needs to be determined and updated in real-time in order to maintain an effective, safe limb function. The inverse neuromuscular model between the desired limb joint motion and the FES input depends on time varying muscle contractility or fatigue level. In this study, ultrasound speckle tracking is proposed to assess muscle contractility and to establish a dynamic model. To demonstrate the feasibility, isometric knee extension experiments of healthy human participants were conducted with ultrasound imaging on the quadriceps muscle. The consistent decrease in peaks in strain and maximum knee joint torque during each contraction cycle suggest a potential correlation between the strain field and fatigue level of the target muscle. With further validation, ultrasound strain field can be used to solve for the dynamic neuromuscular model and further to determine the optimal FES input. Some technical challenges will also be discussed.
Differential plague susceptibility in species and populations of prairie dogs.

Laboratory trials conducted over the past decade at U.S. Geological Survey National Wildlife Health Center indicate that wild populations of prairie dogs (Cynomys spp.) display different degrees of susceptibility to experimental challenge with fully virulent Yersinia pestis, the causative agent of plague. We evaluated patterns in prairie dog susceptibility to plague to determine whether the historical occurrence of plague at location of capture was related to survival times of prairie dogs challenged with Y. pestis. We found that black-tailed prairie dogs (Cynomys ludovicianus) from South Dakota (captured prior to the detection of plague in the state), Gunnison's prairie dogs (Cynomys gunnisoni) from Colorado, and Utah prairie dogs (Cynomys parvidens) from Utah were most susceptible to plague. Though the susceptibility of black-tailed prairie dogs in South Dakota compared with western locations supports our hypothesis regarding historical exposure, both Colorado and Utah prairie dogs have a long history of exposure to plague. It is possible that for these populations, genetic isolation/bottle necks have made them more susceptible to plague outbreaks.
Eigenvalue assignment enabled control law for multivariable nonlinear systems with mismatched uncertainties

Abstract This paper presents an adaptive filtering output feedback control architecture for multivariable nonlinear systems with mismatched uncertainties enabled by an eigenvalue assignment method. A piecewise constant adaptive law updates the adaptive parameters which represent the uncertainty estimates by solving the error dynamics between the output predictor and the real system with the neglection of unknowns. By employing a computationally efficient eigenvalue assignment method, the multivariable nonlinear system is transformed into Frobenius canonical form. A novel filtering control law which allows the desired system to be nonminimum-phase and does not require dynamic inversion of the desired system is designed to compensate the nonlinear uncertainties and track a given trajectory, following a performance determined by the eigenvalues assigned to the controller. The uniform performance bounds are derived for the system state and control input as compared to the corresponding signals of a bounded virtual reference system, which defines the best performance that can be achieved by the closed-loop system. Numerical examples are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the eigenvalue assignment enabled control law, comparisons between the proposed controller and funnel controller are carried out.
Rethinking Consumer Email: The Research Process for Yahoo Mail 6

This case study follows the research process of rethinking the design and functionality of a personal email client, Yahoo Mail. Over three years, we changed the focus of the product from composing emails towards automatically organizing specific categories of business to consumer email (such as deals, receipts, and travel) and creating experiences unique to each category. To achieve this, we employed iterative user research with over 1,500 in-person interviews in six countries and surveys to many thousands of people around the world. This research process culminated in the launch of Yahoo Mail 6.0 for iOS and Android devices in the fall of 2019.
Reaccessing an occluded radial artery for neuroendovascular procedures: techniques and complication avoidance

Background Radial artery occlusion (RAO) occurs in 1% to 10% of cases following transradial arterial access (TRA) for neuroendovascular procedures. When repeat access is required in patients discovered to have RAO, a transfemoral approach is often used. This study reports experience with repeat TRA procedures at a single center and techniques for reaccessing an occluded radial artery in select patients. Methods The electronic records of all patients who underwent multiple neuroendovascular procedures with an attempted TRA as the index procedure at a single center from July 2019 through February 2020 were reviewed. Results There were 656 TRA attempts for diagnostic angiography or intervention from July 2019 through February 2020. A total of 106 patients underwent a repeated attempt at TRA. Techniques for reaccessing an occluded radial artery were implemented halfway through the study period. One hundred patients (94.3%) had a successful second radial catheterization. Six patients required conversion to a transfemoral approach: five for RAO and one for radial branch perforation during the index procedure. After we implemented our techniques for reaccess, four additional patients with RAO successfully underwent TRA. There were no short-term complications, including pain, vessel perforation, forearm hematoma, or hand ischemia, following successful repeat catheterization of a previously occluded radial artery. Conclusion RAO is not an absolute limitation for attempting TRA in patients undergoing repeat catheterization. Reaccessing the radial artery after occlusion is feasible for repeat neuroendovascular procedures.
Developmental innervation of cranial dura mater and migraine headache: A narrative literature review

Introduction Migraine headache prevalence, etiology, and clinical presentations change from childhood to adulthood. Dural innervation plays a role in headache symptomatology, but the changes in innervation during development have not been fully explored in the literature. Methods A narrative literature review on developmental innervation of cranial dura mater in the context of migraine headache. Results Dural structures, nerve distributions, and pain attributed to migraine headache at varying stages of development are discussed herein with a focus on clinical findings and presentations. Conclusions There are many differences in migraine presentation throughout development. Notably, the nervus spinosus and nervus tentorii may play a role in developmental differences in migraine headache presentations between children and adults.
Effects of Frame Constraints on Internal Module Damage During Mechanical Load Testing

Detailed finite element models of a 60-cell crystalline silicon photovoltaic module undergoing a ±1.0 and ±2.4 kPa pressure load were simulated to compare differences created by a constrained frame boundary condition versus replicating manufacturer recommended rack mounting. Module deflection, interconnect strain, and first principal stresses on cell volumes were used as comparison metrics to assess how internal module damage was affected. Average results across all loads scenarios showed that constraining the frame of the module to its initial unloaded plane reduced peak deflections by approximately 13%, interconnect strains by 11%, and first principal stress by 11% when compared to a module with correctly modeled racking. Analysis of results based on damage metrics indicated that the constrained boundary condition reduced interconnect stress at most locations and increased fatigue life by an average of 34%, and likewise reduced the average probability of cell fracture by 82%, though individual results were highly variable. Nonetheless, location-specific trends were generally consistent across constraint methodologies, indicating that the constraint simplification can be applied successfully if corrected for with increased load, additional test cycles, or an informed interpretation of results. The goal of this work was to exercise a methodology for quantifying differences created by a simplified test constraint setup, since expedient experimental simplifications are often used or considered to reduce the complexity of exploratory mechanical tests not related to standards qualification.
Bayesian EMAX model with a mixture of normal distributions for dose-response in clinical trials.

Abstract When a dose–response relationship is monotonic, the EMAX model has been shown to provide a good empirical fit for designing and analyzing dose–response data across a wide range of pharmaceutical studies. However, the EMAX model has never been applied to a finite mixture distribution. Motivated by a proposal investigating DHA dose effect on preterm birth (PTB, 41 weeks gestation) using the same model. We compared our proposed EMAX mixture model with an EMAX logistic model and an independent doses logistic model for a dichotomized endpoint using extensive simulations. Across the scenarios under consideration, the EMAX mixture model achieved higher power than the EMAX logistic model and the independent doses logistic model in detecting the effect of DHA supplementation on the PTB rate. The EMAX mixture model also resulted in smaller mean squared errors (MSE) in PTB rate estimates.
Clinical review: hemorrhagic shock.

This review addresses the pathophysiology and treatment of hemorrhagic shock – a condition produced by rapid and significant loss of intravascular volume, which may lead sequentially to hemodynamic instability, decreases in oxygen delivery, decreased tissue perfusion, cellular hypoxia, organ damage, and death. Hemorrhagic shock can be rapidly fatal. The primary goals are to stop the bleeding and to restore circulating blood volume. Resuscitation may well depend on the estimated severity of hemorrhage. It now appears that patients with moderate hypotension from bleeding may benefit by delaying massive fluid resuscitation until they reach a definitive care facility. On the other hand, the use of intravenous fluids, crystalloids or colloids, and blood products can be life saving in those patients who are in severe hemorrhagic shock. The optimal method of resuscitation has not been clearly established. A hemoglobin level of 7–8 g/dl appears to be an appropriate threshold for transfusion in critically ill patients with no evidence of tissue hypoxia. However, maintaining a higher hemoglobin level of 10 g/dl is a reasonable goal in actively bleeding patients, the elderly, or individuals who are at risk for myocardial infarction. Moreover, hemoglobin concentration should not be the only therapeutic guide in actively bleeding patients. Instead, therapy should be aimed at restoring intravascular volume and adequate hemodynamic parameters.
Competing in the dark: An efficient algorithm for bandit linear optimization

We introduce an efficient algorithm for the problem of online linear optimization in the bandit setting which achieves the optimal O∗( √ T ) regret. The setting is a natural generalization of the nonstochastic multi-armed bandit problem, and the existence of an efficient optimal algorithm has been posed as an open problem in a number of recent papers. We show how the difficulties encountered by previous approaches are overcome by the use of a self-concordant potential function. Our approach presents a novel connection between online learning and interior point methods.
Models for Achieving Computer Competencies in Preservice Education

AbstractAdequate preparation of preservice teachers to use computers and technology in their teaching and learning remains a problem. Two questions are addressed in this article, What do preservice students need to know and do? and How should these outcomes be achieved in a preservice program? The first question, what do preservice students need to know and do, is addressed by the Accreditation Committee of the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE). Two methods employed to achieve the competencies are discussed: the core computer literacy course and the integration model. The author suggests that we do not need to choose between a computer literacy core course or an integration paradigm, but rather the breadth and depth of knowledge required by the ISTE/NCATE standards suggests that both a core course and effective integration are important components of a preservice program.
Catecholamines, Opioids, and Vagal Afferents in the Nucleus of the Solitary Tract

Publisher Summary There is prominent nonsynaptic vesicular release of catecholamines and/or opioid peptides in the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS), and this occurs mainly from large dense-core vesicles (LDCVs). Catecholamines and/or opioids in the NTS can modulate both cardiorespiratory and nociceptive reflexes. In addition, both noradrenergic and adrenergic neurons in this region contain endogenous opioid peptides and receive direct synaptic input from vagal afferents. The functional sites for storage and release of catecholamines and for the physiological effects of catecholamines and/or opioids in the NTS, however, are largely unknown. To identify these sites, previously characterized antipeptide antisera is used to examine the immunocytochemical localization of the vesicular monoamine transporter-2 (VMAT2), the transporter responsible for the reserpine-sensitive vesicular uptake of monoamines in neurons; the β2-adrenergic receptor (βAR), a receptor subtype implicated in the presynaptic regulation of noradrenaline release; and the μopioid receptor (μOR), the major opioid-receptor subtype involved in modulation of vagal reflexes. The results suggest that occupancy of βAR in the NTS can modulate not only the presynaptic release and postsynaptic responses of catecholaminergic neurons, but also the activity of neighboring glia. These findings, as well as the presence of βAR on glia and μOR at extrasynaptic sites on dendrites and axons, suggest that catecholamines and opioids are involved in parasynaptic transmission.
Chronic Use of Triazolam: The Effects on the Sleep Patterns of Insomniacs

The present study was designed to evaluate the effects of triazolam 0.5 mg on the sleep of insomniac patients when given for 3 weeks. The results showed that both acute and chronic triazolam administration are effective in decreasing sleep latency, increasing sleep duration, increasing sleep efficiency and decreasing total wake time without producing major effects on sleep staging. Sleep Stages 1 and 2 were significantly altered by drug treatment but in a positive direction. This change is primarily attributable to the significant decrease in sleep onset. Deep sleep and REM were not significantly changed during triazolam treatment nor was there any evidence of REM rebound after discontinuation of the medication. It was noted that some of the sleep parameters measured shifted toward baseline measures in the first night after triazolam treatment was terminated. However, the total recovery period recorded (7 days) showed the quality and quantity of sleep obtained to be improved over baseline measures. The recovery data compared favourably with those improvements noted during chronic administration of triazolam. It was also found that 3 weeks of triazolam 0.5 mg usage did not result in tolerance to its hypnotic properties. Thus, triazolam maintains its hypnotic effectiveness throughout 3 weeks of administration.
Rates of Lipid Metabolism in Adipose Tissue of Pigs Adapt to Lactational State and Dietary Energy Restriction

To define better the role of metabolism in adipose tissue during gestation and lactation, adaptations to gestation, lactation and to decreased energy intakes were determined using pigs as a model. The effects of energy restriction and the interactions of restriction during both periods were tested by feeding one of two rations during gestation to provide either 19.3 or 25.1 MJ of metabolizable energy per day (ME/d) and adequate amino acids, vitamins and minerals. Pigs from each gestation treatment then consumed 27.7, 48.6, or 69.0 MJ of ME/d during lactation. Body weight and subcutaneous fat thickness were lower in the energy-restricted groups. Litter growth was slower only in the group receiving the lowest energy in gestation and lactation. During gestation, fatty acid synthesis, as measured in in vitro tissue incubations, was lower in subcutaneous adipose tissue of pigs consuming 19.3 compared with 25.1 MJ of ME/d. In pigs fed the highest energy, rates of lipogenesis and esterification were faster after parturition. Feeding 48.6 or 27.7 MJ of ME/d reduced lipogenesis during lactation by approximately 75 and 90% and rates of esterification by 35 and 60%, respectively, compared with controls fed 69.0 MJ of ME/d. Rates of lipid synthesis at d 7 of lactation were higher than at d 23. Lipolysis was approximately twofold higher due to energy restriction. Lactation alone did not alter lipolysis compared with during gestation. The first-committed step of glucose conversion to fatty acids was decreased in a manner sensitive to energy restriction. Recycling of fatty acids was maintained at a significant rate regardless of energy intake. Lipid metabolism in adipose tissue of pigs during lactation is regulated in a manner similar to that observed in humans.
Oral toxicity of Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. israelensis to adult mosquitoes.

The solubilized entomotoxin of Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. israelensis killed adult male and female mosquitoes of several genera and of various physiological states when it was administered orally. Adult mosquito mortality was further influenced when the preparation was contained in sucrose solution. The potential implication for the control of adult mosquitoes is discussed. Images
Investigating a compact phantom and setup for testing body sound transducers

Contact transducers are a key element in experiments involving body sounds. The characteristics of these devices are often not known with accuracy. There are no standardized calibration setups or procedures for testing these sensors. This study investigated the characteristics of a new computer-controlled sound source phantom for testing sensors. Results suggested that sensors with different sizes require special phantom requirements. The effectiveness of certain approaches on increasing the spatial and spectral uniformity of the phantom surface signal was studied. Non-uniformities >20dB were removable, which can be particularly helpful in comparing the characteristics of different size sensors more accurately.
Nuclear Heme Oxygenase-1 (HO-1) Modulates Subcellular Distribution and Activation of Nrf2, Impacting Metabolic and Anti-oxidant Defenses

With oxidative injury as well as in some solid tumors and myeloid leukemia cells, heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), the anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic microsomal stress protein, migrates to the nucleus in a truncated and enzymatically inactive form. However, the function of HO-1 in the nucleus is not completely clear. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), a transcription factor and master regulator of numerous antioxidants and anti-apoptotic proteins, including HO-1, also accumulates in the nucleus with oxidative injury and in various types of cancer. Here we demonstrate that in oxidative stress, nuclear HO-1 interacts with Nrf2 and stabilizes it from glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β)-mediated phosphorylation coupled with ubiquitin-proteasomal degradation, thereby prolonging its accumulation in the nucleus. This regulation of Nrf2 post-induction by nuclear HO-1 is important for the preferential transcription of phase II detoxification enzymes such as NQO1 as well as glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH), a regulator of the pentose phosphate pathway. Using Nrf2 knock-out cells, we further demonstrate that nuclear HO-1-associated cytoprotection against oxidative stress depends on an HO-1/Nrf2 interaction. Although it is well known that Nrf2 induces HO-1 leading to mitigation of oxidant stress, we propose a novel mechanism by which HO-1, by modulating the activation of Nrf2, sets an adaptive reprogramming that enhances antioxidant defenses.
Minimum mean-square error quadrature

Minimum mean squared error linear estimators of the area under a curve are considered for cases when the observations are observed with error. The underlying functional form giving rise to the observations is left unspecified, leading to use of quadrature estimators for the true area. The optimal estimator is calculated as a shrinkage of some preliminary estimator (based on, e.g., the trapezoidal rule). Applications to selected exponential functions demonstrate that savings in mean squared error varies with the level of underlying variance. For cases where variance at each time point is large, the proposed rule can bring about savings in mean squared error of as much as 30%. For experiments with small underlying variance at each time point, squared bias is of greater importance than variance in contributing to mean squared error, and the value of higher-order quadrature routines that focus on minimizing approximation error is noted.
Public funding of airport incentives in the United States: The efficacy of the Small Community Air Service Development Grant program

Abstract As U.S. airlines began to restrict available domestic capacity at smaller airports in 2008 as a result of higher fuel prices and an economic downturn, these airports have increasingly started to rely on incentive packages composed of revenue guarantees, waived or reduced airport use fees, marketing support, or direct subsidies to attract new service. There are two main federal programs that provide funding for such incentives for small U.S. airports: the Essential Air Service (EAS) program and the Small Community Air Service Development Grant (SCASDG) program. While the EAS program has received considerable academic attention, there has been no comprehensive analysis of the success of SCASDG recipients in attracting and retaining their targeted air service. Using a metric of SCASD grant success, this paper evaluates the outcomes of 115 SCASD grantees from 2006 to 2011. In each year, fewer than half of the grant recipients were ultimately successful in meeting the goals of their proposal. Several case studies suggest that successful grantees often had significant community or airline support prior to submitting their grant and were located in slightly larger-than-average communities. Further careful consideration is necessary to determine whether reform of the SCASDG program is warranted to more effectively support the development of small community air service in the United States.
Development of a dual-color fluorescence in situ hybridization probe set on chromosome 6q to improve cytogenetic diagnosis of lymphoid malignancies

Deletions in the long arm of chromosome 6 are one of the most commonly observed chromosome aberrations in lymphoid malignancies and have been identified as an adverse prognostic factor in subsets of leukemia and lymphoma. Although large deletions can readily be detected with conventional banding methods, subtle rearrangements represent a major diagnostic challenge. To identify and follow up 6q abnormalities that are difficult to detect with conventional banding analysis, we have developed a dual-color fluorescence in situ hybridization probe set on 6q21 and 6q27. We have also demonstrated its potential for clinical applications. While applying this new probe set to clinical cytogenetic studies, we identified a unique t(6;14) translocation in a patient with acute lymphoid leukemia. Because the translocation breakpoint on chromosome 6 is located within a common deletion region in patients with lymphoid malignancies, the determination of this translocation breakpoint will facilitate the identification of a candidate tumor suppressor gene in 6q.
Immunoregulatory abnormalities in children withthrombocytopenic purpura

Twenty-eight children with idiopathic thrombocytopenia and 51 members of their immediate familieswere studied for immunologic function and expression of autoimmune phenomena and disease. Among patients with active ITP, 64% had defective immunoregulatory, lymphocytes. The majority of patients (23/28) and family members had one or more immunologic abnormalities, including autoantibodies, other autoimmune disorders, and abnormalities in complement, immunoglobulins, or regulatory T lymphocytes. These data suggest that a genetic predisposition to autoimmunity is present in the majority of children with ITP.