cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Endothelin Receptor Antagonist Macitentan Ameliorates Endothelin-Mediated Vasoconstriction and Promotes Neuroprotection of Retinal Ganglion Cells in Rats.

Abstract Purpose To determine if dietary administration of the dual ETA/ ETB receptor antagonist, macitentan, could protect retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) following endothelin-1 (ET-1) mediated vasoconstriction in Brown Norway rats. Methods Adult male and female Brown Norway rats were either untreated or treated with macitentan (5 mg/kg body weight) once a day for 3 days followed by intravitreal injection of either 4 μl of 500 μM ET-1 (2 nmole/eye) or vehicle in one eye. Imaging of the retinal vasculature using fluorescein angiography was carried out at various time points, including, 5, 10, 15, 25 and 30 minutes. Following the imaging of the vasculature, rats were either treated with macitentan (5 mg/kg/body weight in dietary gels) or untreated (control gels without medication). Following treatments, rats were euthanized, retinal flat mounts were prepared, immunostained for RGC marker Brn3a, imaged and surviving RGCs were counted in a masked manner. Results Vasoconstrictive effects following intravitreal ET-1 injection were greatly reduced in rats administered with macitentan in the diet prior to the ET-1 administration. ET-1 intravitreal injection produced a 31% loss of RGCs which was significantly reduced in macitentan-treated rats. Following ET-1 administration, GFAP immunostaining was increased in the ganglion cell layer as well as in the retrolaminar region, suggestive of astrocytic activation by ET-1 administration. RGC numbers in macitentan treated and ET-1 injected rats were similar to that observed in control retinas. Conclusions ET-1-mediated neurodegeneration could occur through both vascular and cellular mechanisms. The endothelin receptor antagonist, macitentan, has neuroprotective effects in retinas of Brown Norway rats that occurs through different mechanisms, including, enhancement of RGC survival and reduction ET-1 mediated vasoconstriction.
Conclusion: The Future of Emotional Development

In the concluding chapter of the volume, we reflect on common themes across the chapters and highlight important directions for future research.
Incidence and Cost of Acute Kidney Injury in Hospitalized Patients with Infective Endocarditis

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a frequent complication of hospitalized patients with infective endocarditis (IE). Further, AKI in the setting of IE is associated with high morbidity and mortality. We aimed to examine the incidence, clinical parameters, and hospital costs associated with AKI in hospitalized patients with IE in an endemic area with an increasing prevalence of opioid use. This retrospective cohort study included 269 patients admitted to a major referral center in Kentucky with a primary diagnosis of IE from January 2013 to December 2015. Of these, 178 (66.2%) patients had AKI by Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) serum creatinine criteria: 74 (41.6%) had AKI stage 1 and 104 (58.4%) had AKI stage ≥2. In multivariable analysis, higher comorbidity scores and the need for diuretics were independently associated with AKI, while the involvement of the tricuspid valve and the need for vasopressor/inotrope support were independently associated with severe AKI (stage ≥2). The median total direct cost of hospitalization was progressively higher according to each stage of AKI ($17,069 for no AKI; $37,111 for AKI stage 1; and $61,357 for AKI stage ≥2; p < 0.001). In conclusion, two-thirds of patients admitted to the hospital due to IE had incident AKI. The occurrence of AKI significantly increased healthcare costs. The higher level of comorbidity, the affection of the tricuspid valve, and the need for diuretics and/or vasoactive drugs were associated with severe AKI in this susceptible population.
Comparison of Recursive and Non-Recursive ANNs in Energy Consumption Forecasting in Buildings

In the new global economy, energy consumption has become a major issue for residential and commercial buildings. This paper discusses the accuracy of load forecasting for the aggregated load for residential and commercial buildings in the United States. The literature presents a plethora of different consumption forecasting approaches that vary in concept from conventional mathematical stochastic methods to the use of artificial neural network (ANN). The literature shows that ANN have many advantages over conventional techniques, hence the efficacy of ANN models to forecast energy consumptions are investigated. The objective of this paper is to compare recurrent ANN models with non-recurrent ANN models. The recurrent ANNs models used are the Long Short-Term Memory and Gated Recurrent Unit. The non-recursive ANNs studies are the Radial Basis Function Network and Multilayer Perceptron. The parameters examined are short and medium-term load forecasting. The study was made on historic data collected for individual buildings.
What Is New in Validation and Simulation Training?: Best Articles From the Past Year

This month we focus on current research in validation and simulation training. Dr. Buek discusses four recent publications, which are concluded with a "bottom line" that is the take-home message. A complete reference for each can be found on on this page along with direct links to the abstracts.
Sampling Distributions of Dependent Quadratic Forms from Normal and Nonnormal Universes

This paper derives the sampling distribution of dependent quadratic forms from normal and nonnormal universes. It is shown that when all the population cumulants are finite, under some conditions, the joint distribution of dependent quadratic forms can be expressed as infinite series involving Laquerre polynomials.
An 80-Year-Old Man With a 24-Hour History of Epigastric Pain

Case Presentation An 80-year-old man was admitted to our hospital with 24 hours of epigastric pain. The pain was described as sharp, episodic, nonradiating, and without an identifiable provoking factor. Associated symptoms included nausea and nonbloody vomiting. He denied dyspnea, angina, fevers, chills, dysphagia, diarrhea, melena, or hematochezia. He had taken less than 2 g of acetaminophen earlier in the day without symptomatic relief. He had a 30-pack-year smoking history but quit over 25 years ago. He did not drink alcohol or use illicit drugs. He had a medical history of end-stage renal disease, for which he had undergone hemodialysis; hypertension; metastatic prostate cancer, for which he had received androgen deprivation therapy; and abdominal aortic aneurysm. His surgical history included a remote endovascular repair of the abdominal aortic aneurysm. His medications included amlodipine, losartan, carvedilol, sevelamer, and leuprolide.
Exponential Families for Bayesian Quantum Process Tomography

A Bayesian approach to quantum process tomography has yet to be fully developed due to the lack of appropriate probability distributions on the space of quantum channels. Here, by associating the Choi matrix form of a completely positive, trace preserving (CPTP) map with a particular space of matrices with orthonormal columns, called a Stiefel manifold, we present two parametric probability distributions on the space of CPTP maps that enable Bayesian analysis of process tomography. The first is a probability distribution that has an average Choi matrix as a sufficient statistic. The second is a distribution resulting from binomial likelihood data that enables a simple connection to data gathered through process tomography experiments. To our knowledge these are the first examples of continuous, non-unitary random CPTP maps, that capture meaningful prior information for use in Bayesian estimation. We show how these distributions can be used for point estimation using either maximum a posteriori estimates or expected a posteriori estimates, as well as full Bayesian tomography resulting in posterior credibility intervals. This approach will enable the full power of Bayesian analysis in all forms of quantum characterization, verification, and validation.
Fault Assessment of Safety-Critical Applications on Reconfigurable Multi-Core Architecture

The development of multi-core processors has been providing benefits to many industries. However, some issues may arise among these benefits because of the potential conflicts between parallel applications. One of the important concerns is the reliability of the safety critical applications. This paper proposes two algorithms for computing a probability of failure of the safety-critical application on reconfigurable multi-core architecture. One is based on the exact analytical computation; whereas, the other one is the approximated of the former with less computational expensive. These algorithms adopts a combination of a fault tree analysis and a subgraph isomorphism problem to apply for avionics application. Their numerical results and performance analysis are also included.
56. PREPARING PEDIATRICIANS FOR PRACTICE THROUGH INTEGRATED CARE

Background Less than half of children in need of mental health (MH) services receive them, leading to pediatricians filling the void despite self-reported lack of training or comfort. The AAP and AACAP recognize integrated care as one potential solution to the gap in access, but few studies have examined the effects of this model in a pediatric residency clinic. No studies to date have looked at practice habits of pediatricians who trained under this type of model. Objectives We present a model of an Integrated Mental Health Clinic (IMHC) implemented in a pediatric resident continuity clinic for the primary purpose of teaching. We examined practice habits of pediatricians with/without exposure to the model during residency, as well as effects on attitudes, perceived barriers, and confidence in providing MH care. Methods An anonymous survey was sent to program graduates over a 6-year period, spanning implementation. Respondents were classified based on participation in the IMHC: sustained exposure (full dose), indirect exposure (partial dose), and graduation prior to implementation (control). Results were analyzed for dose response, as well as comparing individual groups. Results Pediatricians who trained with an IMHC model address MH more frequently, including asking about depression (p Conclusion Including an Integrated Mental Health Clinic model in pediatric residency continuity clinic can significantly increase pediatricians practice habits, attitudes, and confidence in caring for patients with MH concerns once in practice, if the IMHC is designed intentionally for trainee education.
Slow Disaster in the Anthropocene: A Historian Witnesses Climate Change on the Korean Peninsula

Despite their seeming reluctance to engage in the politics of the now, historians have a crucial role to play as witnesses to climate change and its attendant social injustices. Climate change is a...
Respiratory and Perceptual Responses to High-Intensity Interval Exercise in Obese Adults.

PURPOSE Although high-intensity interval exercise (HIIE) has emerged as an attractive alternative to continuous exercise (CE), the effects of HIIE on ventilatory constraints and dyspnea on exertion have not been studied in obese adults, and thus, tolerability of HIIE in obese adults is unknown. The purpose of this study was to examine differences in respiratory and perceptual responses between HIIE and CE in nonobese and obese adults. METHODS Ten nonobese (5 men; 24.1 ± 6.2 yr; body mass index, 23.0 ± 1.3 kg·m-2) and 10 obese (5 men; 24.2 ± 3.8 yr; body mass index, 37 ± 4.6 kg·m-2) adults participated in this study. Respiratory and perceptual responses were assessed during HIIE (eight 30-s intervals at 80% maximal work rate, with 45-s recovery periods) and two 6-min sessions of CE, completed below and above ventilatory threshold (Vth). RESULTS Despite similar work rate, HIIE was completed at a higher relative intensity in obese when compared with nonobese participants (68.8% ± 9.4% vs 58.9% ± 5.6% maximal oxygen uptake, respectively; P = 0.01). Expiratory flow limitation and/or dynamic hyperinflation was present during HIIE in 50% of the obese but in none of the nonobese participants. Ratings of perceived breathlessness were highest during HIIE (5.3 ± 2.4), followed by CEaboveVth (2.5 ± 1.6), and CEbelowVth (0.9 ± 0.7; P < 0.05) in obese participants. Unpleasantness associated with breathlessness was higher in obese (4.2 ± 3.0) when compared with nonobese participants (0.6 ± 1.3; P = 0.005) during HIIE. CONCLUSIONS HIIE, when prescribed relative to maximal work rate, is associated with greater ventilatory constraints and dyspnea on exertion when compared with CE in obese adults. CE may be more tolerable when compared with HIIE for obese adults.
Population health impact of extended window thrombectomy in acute ischemic stroke.

BackgroundRecent trials support endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) in select patients beyond the conventional 6-hour window.ObjectiveIn this work, we estimate the impact of extended window EVT on proc...
Effective remote staff training of objective session notes

Session notes are a required component of documenting behavior analytic sessions. The direct training of writing objective session notes is important to the success of direct line staff completing adequate documentation and meeting requirements set forth by agencies, certification boards, and insurance funders. However, in-person training is not always immediately available due to contextual restrictions. This study evaluated the effectiveness of implementing the teaching interaction procedure when training staff remotely to objectively document client progress within session notes. Three Registered Behavior Technicians™ (RBT®s) were trained via telehealth to complete session notes objectively. Results showed that all 3 participants met the mastery criterion during probes measuring the objective documentation of home-based behavior analytic sessions. These findings suggest that a training package, such as the teaching interaction procedure, can be effectively implemented remotely when conducting staff training.
Impact of implantation time on early function of cardiac transplant.

Background Data on out-of-ice implantation ischemia in heart transplant are scarce. We examined implantation time's impact on allograft dysfunction. Methods We conducted a single-site retrospective review of all primary adult heart transplants from June 2012 to August 2019 for implantation warm ischemic time (WIT), defined as first atrial stitch to aortic crossclamp removal. Univariate regression was used to assess the relationship of perioperative variables to primary graft dysfunction (PGD) and to pulmonary artery pulsatility index (PAPi) at postoperative hour 24. A threshold of p Results Complete data were available for 201 patients. Baseline characteristics were similar between patients who did and did not have WIT documented. In univariate analysis, female gender, longer total ischemic time (TIT), longer bypass time, greater blood transfusions, and pretransplant intensive care unit (ICU) care were associated with PGD, whereas longer bypass time was associated with worse PAPi and pretransplant ICU care was associated with better PAPi. In multivariate analysis, longer bypass time predicted PGD, and worse PAPi and preoperative ICU admission predicted PGD and better PAPi. Results did not differ in secondary or subgroup analyses. Conclusions This study is one of few examining the functional impact of cardiac implantation ischemia. Results suggest allograft implantation time alone may not impact postoperative graft function, which was driven by intraoperative bypass duration and by preoperative ICU care, instead.
Techniques for constructing climate scenarios for stress test applications

In this review, we provide guidance on the construction of climate scenarios for stress tests—scenarios that represent disruptive climatic events and can be used to assess the impacts of climate and weather risks at the level of detail that is necessary to identify specific adaptation actions or strategies. While there is a wealth of guidance on scenario-based climate adaptation planning, this guidance typically assumes the selection and use of decadal to century-long time segments of downscaled climate model projections, rather than the creation of a customized scenario depicting a specific extreme event. We address this gap by synthesizing a variety of data sources and analytical techniques for constructing climate scenarios for stress tests that are customized to address specific end-users’ needs. We then illustrate the development and application of climate scenarios with a case study that explores water sustainability under changing climate in the Truckee and Carson River basins of California and Nevada. Finally, we assess the potential advantages and disadvantages of the different data sources and analytical techniques described to provide guidance on which are best suited for an intended application based on the system of study, the stakeholders involved, and the resources available. Ultimately, this work is intended to provide the building blocks with which scientist-stakeholder teams can produce their own stress test scenarios to explore place-based weather and climate risks.
Core-centered Actuation for Biped Locomotion of Humanoid Robots

In this paper we examine a novel method of core-located actuation that we believe can be used to vary gaits in a compass-gait walker, using critical analysis of a ball-in-tray mechanism to apply forces at the robot’s "pelvis". The dynamic equations of motion of a tilting ball-tray system with several design parameters are developed and simulated for various tray designs. Results show that changes in tray design do indeed significantly affect the trajectory. When compared to a hardware ball-tray system, the results show good agreement with the simulation. The sagittal plane component of the ball’s trajectory is applied to the motion of a corresponding mass at the "pelvis" of a compass-gait walker. Simulations of the compass-gait walker show that this trajectory generates a feasible gait.
The significance of the failed historical foundation of linear non-threshold model for cancer risk assessment

The linear non-threshold (LNT) single-hit (SH) dose response model for cancer risk assessment is assessed with respect to its historical foundations. This paper examines and summarises how mistakes, ideological biases, and scientific misconduct by key scientists affected the acceptance, validity, and application of the LNT single-hit model for cancer risk assessment. This analysis concludes that the LNT single-hit model was inappropriately adopted for governmental risk assessment, regulatory policy and practices, and for risk communication.
A Novel Network With Parallel Resolution Encoders for the Diagnosis of Corneal Diseases

Objective: To propose a deep-learning network for the diagnosis of two corneal diseases: Fuchs’ endothlelial dystrophy and keratoconus, based on optical coherence tomography (OCT) images of the cornea. Methods: In this paper, we propose a novel network with parallel resolution-specific encoders and composite classification features to directly diagnose Fuchs’ endothelial dystrophy and keratoconus using OCT images. Our proposed network consists of a multi-resolution input, multiple parallel encoders, and a composite of convolutional and dense features for classification. The purpose of using parallel resolution-specific encoders is to perform multi-resolution feature fusion. Also, using composite classification features enhances the dense feature learning. We implemented other related networks for comparison with our network and performed k-fold cross-validation on a dataset of 16,721 OCT images. We used saliency maps and sensitivity analysis to visualize our proposed network. Results: The proposed network outperformed other networks with an image classification accuracy of 0.91 and a scan classification accuracy of 0.94. The visualizations show that our network learned better features than other networks. Significance: The proposed methods can potentially be a step towards the early diagnosis of corneal diseases, which is necessary to prevent their progression, hence, prevent loss of vision.
Non-invasive Neurally Adjusted Ventilatory Assist (NAVA) in the pediatric ICU: assessing optimal Edi compliance.

BACKGROUND Bronchiolitis patients are supported with non-invasive conventional modalities (HFNC, CPAP and BiPAP). Neurally Adjusted Ventilatory Assist (NAVA) is a newer mode which supports based on electrical activity of the diaphragm (Edi). It is unclear if non-invasive NAVA is used within optimal operational parameters. The study aim was to evaluate Edi compliance. METHODS A retrospective chart review of bronchiolitis patients admitted to the PICU from January 2015 to January 2018 was undertaken. NAVA compliance within optimal parameters (defined as Edi peak values between 5-15 μV and Edi min < 1μV) was assessed as the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included PICU length of stay (LOS), duration to minimal respiratory support (defined as 4 L/min or less on HFNC) and intubation rate in the conventional (non-NAVA) and non-invasive NAVA. RESULTS Sixty-three patients with a mean age of 6.89 months with 30 on NAVA and 33 on non-NAVA support were analyzed. Compliance with optimal Edi peak and Edi min was 50.4% (±37.5%) and 33.8% (±26.2%) respectively. Regression models for PICU LOS with minimal respiratory support and for 1L/kg of HFNC showed adjusted R2= 0.96 and 0.92, respectively. The mean PICU stay for NAVA was 146.00 hrs. (±66.26) versus 69.58 hrs. (±57.69) for the non-NAVA group (p<0.001). Duration to minimal respiratory support was 125.40 hrs. (±54.90) for NAVA versus 58.03 hrs. (±58.97) for non-NAVA group (p<0.001). A higher intubation rate was found in the NAVA group (13.33% versus 3.03%, p=0.296). CONCLUSIONS We found suboptimal compliance with operational parameters with non-invasive NAVA support. There was longer PICU LOS, time to minimal respiratory support in the NAVA compared to the non-NAVA support.
Development of a guidance, navigation and control architecture and validation process enabling autonomous docking to a tumbling satellite

The capability to routinely perform autonomous docking is a key enabling technology for future space exploration, as well as assembly and servicing missions for spacecraft and commercial satellites. Particularly, in more challenging situations where the target spacecraft or satellite is tumbling, algorithms and strategies must be implemented to ensure the safety of both docking entities in the event of anomalies. However, difficulties encountered in past docking missions conducted with expensive satellites on orbit have indicated a lack of maturity in the technologies required for such operations. Therefore, more experimentation must be performed to improve the current autonomous docking capabilities. The main objectives of the research presented in this thesis are to develop a guidance, navigation and control (GN&C) architecture that enables the safe and fuel-efficient docking with a free tumbling target in the presence of obstacles and anomalies, and to develop the software tools and verification processes necessary in order to successfully demonstrate the GN&C architecture in a relevant environment. The GNC Fax 617-253-1690.) Multiple autonomous docking operations have been performed in the ISS to validate the GN&C architecture. These experiments led to the first autonomous docking with a tumbling target ever achieved in microgravity. Furthermore, the author also demonstrated successful docking in spite of the presence of measurement errors that were detected and rejected by an online fault detection algorithm. The results of these experiments will be discussed in this thesis. Finally, based on experiments in a laboratory environment, the author establishes two processes for the verification of GN&C software prior to on-orbit testing on the SPHERES testbed.
Monopoly Broth Makes Bad Soup

There is an oft-repeated maxim that a monopolist’s conduct must be examined in its totality since it is “the mix of various ingredients... in a monopoly broth that produces the unsavory flavor.” This maxim is subject to use and abuse. In this symposium essay, I propose three principles for a correct normative understanding of the “monopoly broth” maxim. First, independently lawful conduct - such as above-cost pricing, refusals to deal, or functionality-enhancing product innovations - should never be added to a “broth” to create liability. Second, where the legality of certain conduct - particularly exclusive dealing, tying, and similar conduct - turns on the degree of market foreclosure, aggregating the defendant’s various exclusive-dealing-like practices is necessary to determine legality. Finally, where the defendant commits independently unlawful acts “such as torts, crimes, breaches of contract, or regulatory violations” that purportedly serve to monopolize the market, the conduct should only be combined in a “broth” for litigation purposes if the plaintiff offers a robust explanation of the synergistic effects of the disparate forms of bad behavior.
Nanoparticle chemical composition and diurnal dependence at the CalNex Los Angeles ground site

[1] The Nano Aerosol Mass Spectrometer (NAMS) was deployed to the California Nexus Los Angeles ground site in Pasadena, California during May–June 2010 to study nanoparticles in the 20–25 nm size range. NAMS gives a quantitative measure of the elemental composition of individual particles, and molecular apportionment of the elemental data allows the O/C mole ratio of carbonaceous matter in each particle to be determined. Abrupt increases in nanoparticle number concentration were observed in the afternoon on sunny days, and coincided with a shift in the wind direction from the southeast to the southwest. Nanoparticles analyzed during these time periods were found to contain enhanced levels of sulfur and silicon relative to particles analyzed earlier in the day, and the O/C ratios of carbonaceous matter changed from a distribution dominated by primary motor vehicle emissions (O/C ratio < 0.25) to one dominated by “fresh” secondary organic aerosol (O/C ratio between 0.25 and 0.65). The wind direction and chemical composition dependencies suggest that the afternoon increase in number concentration originated from motor vehicle emissions in the downtown Los Angeles area that were photochemically processed during transport to the measurement site. It is likely that photochemical processing led to both a change in the composition of preexisting particles and to the formation of new particles.
Regulation of Ca2+/Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinase II Signaling within Hippocampal Glutamatergic Postsynapses during Flurazepam Withdrawal

Cessation of one-week oral administration of the benzodiazepine flurazepam (FZP) to rats results in withdrawal anxiety after 1 day of withdrawal. FZP withdrawal is correlated with synaptic incorporation of homomeric GluA1-containing α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazole-4-propionic acid receptors (AMPARs) in the proximal stratum radiatum of CA1 neurons. After 2 days of withdrawal, Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) phosphorylates GluA1 subunits at Ser831, increasing channel conductance. Secondary to AMPAR potentiation, GluN2B-containing N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs), known binding partners of CaMKII, are selectively removed from the postsynaptic density (PSD). While activation of synaptic CaMKII is known to involve translocation to the PSD, CaMKII bound to NMDARs may be removed from the PSD. To distinguish these possibilities, the current studies used postembedding immunogold electron microscopy to investigate alterations in CaMKII signaling at CA1 stratum radiatum synapses after 2 days of FZP withdrawal. These studies revealed decreased total, but not autophosphorylated (Thr286) CaMKIIα expression in CA1 PSDs. The removal of CaMKII-GluN2B complexes from the PSD during drug withdrawal may serve as a homeostatic mechanism to limit AMPAR-mediated CA1 neuron hyperexcitability and benzodiazepine withdrawal anxiety.
The First Development of Human Factors Engineering Requirements for Application to Ground Task Design for a NASA Flight Program

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration has long applied standards-derived human engineering requirements to the development of hardware and software for use by astronauts while in flight. The most important source of these requirements has been NASA-STD-3000. While there have been several ground systems human engineering requirements documents, none has been applicable to the flight system as handled at NASA's launch facility at Kennedy Space Center. At the time of the development of previous human launch systems, there were other considerations that were deemed more important than developing worksites for ground crews; e.g., hardware development schedule and vehicle performance. However, experience with these systems has shown that failure to design for ground tasks has resulted in launch schedule delays, ground operations that are more costly than they might be, and threats to flight safety. As the Agency begins the development of new systems to return humans to the moon, the new Constellation Program is addressing this issue with a new set of human engineering requirements. Among these requirements is a subset that will apply to the design of the flight components and that is intended to assure ground crew success in vehicle assembly and maintenance tasks. These requirements address worksite design for usability and for ground crew safety.
Organic–inorganic perovskites: Lower threshold for nanowire lasers

Hybrid perovskite is introduced as a new material for nanowire lasers. One-dimensional nanostructures of these perovskites can be optically pumped to lase with tunable wavelength at relatively low threshold, which marks a step towards their use in integrated photonics.
Hydraulic and Hydrologic Performance of Residential Rain Gardens

AbstractAccelerated stormwater runoff creates environmental problems in many urban communities. Methods of reducing runoff for individual residences are available, but are often recommended without sufficient analysis. For example, many states provide guidance on creating rain gardens, but few include information about how well rain gardens actually work. An analysis algorithm is presented to evaluate rain garden effectiveness at reducing stormwater runoff by promoting infiltration, evaporation, and evapotranspiration. Example simulations are presented based on an Ohio meteorological record. Results indicate that garden effectiveness is dominated by infiltration. Evaporation and evapotranspiration play minor roles in reducing runoff. Results also indicate that current rain garden design recommendations are often too conservative. Even for low permeability soils, rain gardens can be more effective than currently assumed. Common depth recommendations are reasonable, but area recommendations are also conserv...
ADR's Place in Foreclosure: Remedying the Flaws of a Securitized Housing Market

Millions of Americans lost their homes during the foreclosure crisis, an unprecedented disaster still plaguing local and national economies. A primary factor contributing to the crisis has been the failure of conventional foreclosure procedures to account for the new realities of securitization and the secondary mortgage market, which transformed the traditional borrower-lender relationship. To compensate for the shortcomings of conventional foreclosure procedures and stem the tide of residential foreclosure, state and local governments turned to ADR processes for a solution. Some foreclosure ADR programs, however, have greater potential to avoid unnecessary foreclosures than others. This article comprehensively examines the key components of foreclosure ADR programs and presents best practices for governments seeking to utilize ADR as a tool to mitigate the foreclosure crisis and re-energize the economy.
Distance-based assessment of the localization of functional annotations in 3D genome reconstructions

Recent studies used the contact data or three-dimensional (3D) genome reconstructions from Hi-C (chromosome conformation capture with next-generation sequencing) to assess the co-localization of functional genomic annotations in the nucleus. These analyses dichotomized data point pairs belonging to a functional annotation as “close” or “far” based on some threshold and then tested for enrichment of “close” pairs. We propose an alternative approach that avoids dichotomization of the data and instead directly estimates the significance of distances within the 3D reconstruction. We applied this approach to 3D genome reconstructions for Plasmodium falciparum, the causative agent of malaria, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae and compared the results to previous approaches. We found significant 3D co-localization of centromeres, telomeres, virulence genes, and several sets of genes with developmentally regulated expression in P. falciparum; and significant 3D co-localization of centromeres and long terminal repeats in S. cerevisiae. Additionally, we tested the experimental observation that telomeres form three to seven clusters in P. falciparum and S. cerevisiae. Applying affinity propagation clustering to telomere coordinates in the 3D reconstructions yielded six telomere clusters for both organisms. Distance-based assessment replicated key findings, while avoiding dichotomization of the data (which previously yielded threshold-sensitive results).
A model for assessing the impact of atmospheric deposition on regional forest inventories

Abstract A model for estimating the impact of atmospheric deposition on regional forest inventory was developed, and combines a regional inventory projection model, a modified yield function which includes crown length as a predictor variable and exogenously determined timber harvests. The effect of atmospheric deposition on forest growth is simulated by varying crown length, and the inventory impact is the difference between inventory without and with varied crown length. The model is demonstrated by projecting the Commonwealth of Virginia's softwood forest inventory in 5-year intervals to the year 2035. A one-foot reduction in crown length causes a 0·7 to 1·7% reduction in inventory, depending on ownership. Inventory reductions of 1·7 to 8·7 and 4·5 to 17·8% are estimated for 5- and 10-foot crown reductions. However, models which account for market interactions halve the reductions.
Using the C-V curve of an mis diode to examine the trapping levels in a semiconductor containing many discrete traps

Abstract It is shown that the trap concentrations and depths can be obtained from the slopes of the ( C / c i ) 2 vs V G curves and the change in ( C / C i ) 2 at the transition points for an MIS diode, and that this method is particularly applicable to single type semiconductors such as CdS. This is done by developing equations using the abrupt depletion layer model. In this paper the equations are derived, they are used to determine the ideal C-V curves of copper doped CdS, and then they are used to analyze C-V curves of gold doped silicon. Equations are also derived that predict how the C-V curve will be affected when the depletion layer punches through a doped layer, and calculations are made for copper doped CdS.
A Versatile Four Parameter Family of Probability Distributions Suitable for Simulation

Abstract Methods are well-known for generating random values from many common statistical distributions. These common distributions are sometimes used in simulation studies due to the lack of convenient methods of generating random values from distributions having more arbitrary shapes. A family of distributions is presented here which assumes many shapes, including those of the exponential, Bernoulli and uniform distributions. Any given first four moments may be obtained through manipulation of four parameters. The inverse cdf exists in closed form, allowing straightforward generation of random values given a source of U(0,1) values. Properties of the distribution and methods of parameter determination are developed.
'The calculus of pain': Violence, anthropological ethics, and the category transgender

In addressing Nancy Scheper-Hughes's (1995) call for 'the primacy of the ethical' in anthropological research, this paper complicates anthropologists' ethical position by exploring a range of practices seen as harmful or violent by transgender-identified people. I argue that an ethical stance on the violence experienced by one's study participants is deeply complicated by what comes to count for participants as harm and violence. By investigating a range of social contexts and practices - political activism, social service support groups, and ethnographic practices - I argue that detailed ethnography which queries the ontological assumptions of those who claim to have experienced violence is the most effective route to acting ethically.
Fluorescent techniques for discovery and characterization of phosphopantetheinyl transferase inhibitors

Phosphopantetheinyl transferase (PPTase; E.C. 2.7.8.-) activates biosynthetic pathways that synthesize both primary and secondary metabolites in bacteria. Inhibitors of these enzymes have the potential to serve as antibiotic compounds that function through a unique mode of action and possess clinical utility. Here we report a direct and continuous assay for this enzyme class based upon monitoring polarization of a fluorescent phosphopantetheine analog as it is transferred from a low-molecular weight CoA substrate to higher-molecular weight protein acceptor. We demonstrate the utility of this method for the biochemical characterization of PPTase Sfp, a canonical representative from this class. We also establish the portability of this technique to other homologs by adapting the assay to function with the human PPTase, a target for which a microplate detection method does not currently exist. Comparison of these targets provides a basis to predict the therapeutic index of inhibitor candidates and offers a valuable characterization of enzyme activity.
Social Class, Culture, and Cognition

There are competing accounts of the relationship among social class, culture, and cognition. An interactive hypothesis suggests the relationship between social class and cognitive tendencies varies inasmuch as societies differ in their endorsement of those cognitive tendencies. An alternative additive hypothesis suggests that class-related environments promote differences in cognition. The authors addressed the validity of these accounts by simultaneously examining the effects of class among Americans (an independent society) and Russians (an interdependent society). Consistent with the additive hypothesis, lower social class was associated with more holistic cognition and more interdependent self-views in both countries. In Study 1, people from lower social class backgrounds and Russians displayed less dispositional bias. In Study 2, people from lower social class backgrounds and Russians demonstrated more contextual attention, more nonlinear reasoning about change, and more interdependent self-views (le...
Phytochemicals in diets for breast cancer prevention: The importance of resveratrol and ursolic acid

Abstract Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death from cancer in women in the United States. A growing emphasis is being placed on alternative medicine and dietary approaches toward prevention of potential diseases. Phytochemicals are bioactive compounds that are naturally present in foods that, when acting in synergy, bestow potential anti-cancer properties. Resveratrol, a phytoalexin, and ursolic acid, a pentacyclic triterpenoid, are two bioactive compounds that are at the forefront in scientific research. Previous animal studies have documented the anti-cancer properties of resveratrol on breast cancer cells and research groups have recently been able to identify the anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and induction of apoptosis properties of resveratrol along with the signal transduction pathways that the compound affects. Ursolic acid has been cast into the limelight with the recent discovery documenting its anti-inflammation and anti-cancer activities by targeting signal pathways, especially in the prevention of breast cancer.
Brain Stem Gliomas: Therapeutic Options at Time of Recurrence

Despite contentions to the contrary, the majority of children with recurrent brain stem gliomas survive for at least 3 months after first relapse. Treatment can be undertaken and response determined, especially if brain stem necrosis is taken into consideration. Relatively few patients have been treated on well-designed studies accruing adequate numbers of patients. No conventional salvage therapy exists. Adequate studies with innovation approaches are needed to help individual patients, families and future generations of children with brain stem gliomas.
In vitro assembly of the outer shell of bacteriophage ϕ6 nucleocapsid

Abstract Following dissociation of bacteriophage ϕ6 nucleocapsid (NC) by EDTA, a particle composed of protein P8 and corresponding to the outer shell of the NC was assembled in vitro in the presence of Ca 2+ and Mg 2+ . Assembly was obtained from soluble protein constituents frove 100 μg/ml and was optimal within a temperature range of 22–30°. Assembly did not require the presence of genomic RNA. Crosslinking results of intact NCs and in vitro -assembled outer shells suggested that protein P8 dimers are the structural subunits of the shell. Analysis of the assembly kinetics by electron microscopy suggested that ring-like particles of uniform size, packed in flat hexagonal arrays, are intermediates in outer shell assembly.
What are normal esthetic values

The management of dentofacial deformities is at least partially assessed on the basis of standardized radiographs and photographs, which are analyzed according to accepted norms. Although one frequently hears the cry of "Treat the patient, not the cephalometric radiograph," with the development of sophisticated computer-assisted digitizing systems and cephalometric analysis programs, there may be a greater reliance on cephalometric and photometric norms than previously. If we are to become more dependent on these normal values, it is necessary to know their origin and significance.
State-space representation of Li-ion battery porous electrode impedance model with balanced model reduction

Abstract This paper presents an approximate time-domain solution for physics-based electrochemical lithium-ion cell battery models. The time-domain solution is represented in state-space form and can be easily used for the design of a state estimator or controller. It uses an interconnection-of-system approach to derive a state-space representation of a battery impedance model and provides a reduced order model based via the balanced truncation method. Simulation results are also provided to show the performance of the proposed model in the frequency domain.
Geologic Structures in Northern California as Detected from ERTS-1 Satellite Imagery

Repetitive multispectral ERTS-l (Earth Resources Technical Satellite-1) imagery of northern California has disclosed several systems of linear features that may be important for the interpretation of the structural history of California. Four linear systems coexist within the northern Coast Ranges. They are separated from an orthogonal system of linear features in the Klamath Mountains by a set of discontinuous east-southeast–trending linear features (the Mendocino system) which are traceable from the Pacific Coast at Cape Mendocino into the eastern foothills of the Sierra Nevada. Within the Sierra Nevada, the Mendocino system separates the north-trending Sierran system from a set characteristic of the Modoc Plateau. With minor exception, little overlap exists among the systems, which suggests a decipherable chronology and evolutionary history for the region. The San Andreas system of linear features appears to truncate or coexist with most other systems in the northern Coast Ranges. The Mendocino system truncates the Klamath, Sierran, and Modoc systems. The Sierran system may represent fundamental and long-persisting early to mid-Mesozoic zones of crustal weakness which may have been reactivated during late Mesozoic time. The Mendocino system was possibly developed during mid- to late Mesozoic time, and recurrent movement has persisted into the Holocene Epoch. The Mendocino system is thus an important element in the structural framework of northern California.
LASER RAMAN SPECTROSCOPY OF SNAKE VENOM NEUROTOXINS: CONFORMATION

Laser Raman spectra of neurotoxins of Pelamis platurus (yellow-bellied sea snake) and Laticauda semifasciata (broad-banded blue sea snake) were investigated. The amide I band appeared at 1672 cm-1 for both toxins, which presents an indication of anti-parallel beta structure. Since this agrees well with the result from the CD-ORD studies of snake neurotoxin, it was concluded that snake neurotoxins mainly consist of beta structure. The amide III band appeared at 1245 cm-1 for P. platurus toxin and 1248 cm-1 for L. semifasciata toxin. The four disulfide bonds present in the toxin have a very similar geometry. After vigorous heat treatment, the backbone configuration of the toxin molecule basically remained the same although it was partially denatured. The major peak at 512 cm-1 was not altered by the heat treatment but a new shoulder appeared at 546 cm-1. This suggests that a new type of S-S stretching vibration (trans-gauche-trans) was produced as a result of heat treatment. However, the majority of the S-S vibrations remained in the gauche-gauche-gauche orientation. A substantial change in the interactions between a tyrosine aromatic ring and neighboring residues was apparently the alteration caused by the heat treatment.
Engaging the spirit world: popular beliefs and practices in modern Southeast Asia

This anthology addresses a range of relationships with spirits in contemporary Southeast Asia. Half the essays (by Chauvet, Kendall, Brac de la Perriere, Horstmann, and the editors) focus on practi...
Training effects on attitudes and personality characteristics of nurse practitioners.

Three psychological measurements were obtained on applicants to a pediatric nurse practitioner program. 67 were enrolled in the program, the remaining 51 were rejected, withdrew their applications, or did not complete their applications. 43 of the 67 students who entered the program were re-administered Rotter's Internal-External Locus of Control Scale, Budner's Intolerance of Ambiguity Scale and Myers-Briggs Type Indicator at the end of the program and at 1-yr. post-graduation. Students tended to be more introverted, more perceptive, and more externally controlled at the end of the program than on entry. One year after graduation the nurses' profiles on all of the psychological measurements tended to resemble those obtained on entry to the program. These findings indicate that, while new skills can be learned by a select group of highly motivated nurses in 4 mo., the practitioner's attitudes will probably vary with their perceived expectations of particular situations.