cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Analysis of robust H/sub 2/ performance with multipliers

In this paper, we examine the problem of determining the worst-case H/sub 2/ performance of a control system subject to linear, time-invariant uncertainties. We derive upper bounds on the performance, based on the theory of stability multipliers and the solution of an original optimal control problem. We address the numerical issues raised by the resulting computational problems: in particular, we show that newly developed interior-point convex optimization methods, combined with linear matrix inequalities apply very well to the fast and accurate solution of these problems. The new results compare favorably with prior ones. >
Redox magnetohydrodynamic enhancement of stripping voltammetry: toward portable analysis using disposable electrodes, permanent magnets, and small volumes

The use of redox magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) to enhance the anodic stripping voltammetry (ASV) response of heavy metals has been investigated, with respect to achieving portability: disposable electrodes consisting of screen-printed carbon (SPC) on a low temperature co-fired ceramic (LTCC) substrate, small volumes, and permanent magnets. The analytes tested (Cd2+, Cu2+, and Pb2+) were codeposited on SPC with Hg2+ to form a Hg thin film electrode. High concentrations of Fe3+ were used to produce a high cathodic current which generates a significant Lorentz force in the presence of a magnetic field. This Lorentz force induces solution convection during the deposition step, enhancing the mass transport of analytes to the electrode and increasing their preconcentrated quantity in the mercury thin film. Therefore, larger ASV peaks and improved sensitivities are obtained, compared to analyses performed without a magnet. The effects on ASV signal of varying Hg2+ concentration (0.10 and 1.0 mM), deposition time (10–600 s), and electrode surface roughness were investigated. In addition, analyses were performed using a real lake water matrix. By using the disposable LTCC-SPC working electrodes in small volumes (150 µL) and with small permanent magnets (0.78 T), peak areas were increased by 75% when compared to the signal obtained in the absence of a magnetic field. A limit of detection of 25 nM for Cd2+ was observed with only a 1 min preconcentration time.
Electrophysiological analysis of error monitoring in schizophrenia.

In this study, the authors sought to determine whether abnormalities exhibited by schizophrenia patients in event-related potentials associated with self-monitoring—the error-related negativity (ERN) and the correct response negativity (CRN)—persist under conditions that maximize ERN amplitude and to examine relationships between the ERN and behavior in schizophrenia. Participants performed a flanker task under 2 contingencies: one encouraging accuracy and another emphasizing speed. Compared with healthy participants, in schizophrenia patients the ERN was reduced in the accuracy condition, and the CRN was enhanced in the speed condition. The amplitude of a later ERP component, the error positivity, did not differ between groups in either task condition. Reduced self-correction and increased accuracy following errors were associated with larger ERNs in both groups. Thus, ERN generation appears to be abnormal in schizophrenia patients even under conditions demonstrated to maximize ERN amplitude; however, functional characteristics of the ERN appear to be intact.
Further results on cyclic product codes

Cyclic product codes are useful for two reasons. First, they impart a great deal of algebraic structure to a subclass of the class of cyclic codes. Second, because they can be formulated in terms of much shorter (component) codes, their decoding may be considerably simpler than many other types of codes. In this paper both of the properties of cyclic product codes are developed. It is shown that the product of two majority-logic decodable cyclic codes is also majority-logic decodable provided that one of the component codes is one-step decodable. More precisely, if the row-component code can realize minimum distance d_1 (i.e., correct [(d_1 -- 1)/2] errors) with a one-step majority-logic decoder and if the column-component code can realize minimum distance d_2 with an L -step decoder, then the product code can realize distance d_1 d_2 with an L -step decoder. It is also shown that the algebraic structure of cyclic product codes can be applied to establish the exact minimum distance of certain subclasses of BCH codes.
Neck surface electromyography as a measure of vocal hyperfunction before and after injection laryngoplasty.

Objectives—The goal of this preliminary study was to determine if neck surface electromyography (sEMG) is sensitive to possible changes in vocal hyperfunction associated with injection laryngoplasty, particularly with respect to alterations in the degree of vocal hyperfunction. Methods—Thirteen individuals undergoing office-based injection laryngoplasty for glottal phonatory insufficiency were prospectively studied using a battery of acoustic, aerodynamic, endoscopic, and anterior neck surface electromyographic (sEMG) assessments before the procedure and approximately one week after.
Carbohydrate reactivation of thyroxine 5'-deiodinase (type II) in cultured mouse neuroblastoma cells is dependent upon new protein synthesis.

The T3 concentration in brain predominantly reflects local production from T4 rather than T3 uptake from the circulating pool. We recently demonstrated that rat brain T3 content is increased by glucose feeding compared to chow feeding. One possible mechanism for this effect is an increase in brain T4 5'-deiodinase (5'-D) activity. Our recent preliminary studies of neuroblastoma (NB) cells demonstrate that renewal of RPMI-1640 medium stimulates T4 5'-D type II (NB T4 5'-D II) activity in these cells. The present studies were performed to determine the mechanism of this response. Studies were performed on NB cells supported in thyroid hormone-depleted (deficient) medium. This approach increased NB T4 5'-DII activity 4-fold compared to that in thyroid hormone-replete medium. Medium renewal further stimulated enzyme activity (7- to 9-fold; maximum at 6 h) in each group. The difference between the hypothyroid group and control was sustained over a 24-h period. Subsequent studies demonstrated that glucose (11 mM) was the specific medium ingredient mediating the medium renewal response. A progressive increase in NB T4 5'-DII activity was noted over 8 h during RPMI-1640 salt plus glucose (11 mM) incubation. This was equivalent to the effect of complete medium containing glucose (11 mM). Coincubation with insulin (10(-7)-10(-9) M) did not modify the enzyme response to glucose. In addition, fructose (10 mM) had a similar effect on enzyme activity. Glycerol and essential and nonessential amino acids also modestly increased NB T4 5'-DII activity compared to that in the control group (P less than 0.01). Actinomycin-D (1 microM), cycloheximide (100 microM), and puromycin (100 microM) significantly (P less than 0.001) decreased the glucose effect on T4 5'-DII by 5-, 9-, and 17-fold, respectively, after 6 h of incubation. In addition, puromycin (10-200 microM) inhibited both NB T4 5'-DII activity and [3H]amino acid incorporation during incubation in glucose. There was a significant correlation between these parameters (r = 0.8; P less than 0.001). The enzyme activity decay curves in the glucose-activated and control groups subsequent to puromycin (100 microM) addition at 8 h were parallel. The fractional turnover rate was 13%/h in the controls and 11%/h in the glucose groups. The calculated enzyme production rate was significantly higher (P less than 0.005) in the glucose group compared to that in the control group (17.4 vs. 6.8 fmol/mg protein.h).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Structure of the H-induced vacancy reconstruction of the (0001) surface of beryllium

A unique chemisorption structure has been determined for the $(\sqrt{3}\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}\sqrt{3})R30\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}\mathrm{H}\ensuremath{-}\mathrm{B}\mathrm{e}(0001)$ phase formed at a saturation coverage of 1 ML and $Tl~270\mathrm{K}.$ The analysis of low-energy electron diffraction data shows that $\frac{1}{3}$ of the Be top layer atoms are removed to form a honeycomb structure of Be vacancies. Each vacancy is decorated by three H adatoms bonded in tilted bridge sites with a H-Be bond length and angle of 1.53 \AA{} (\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.2) and 42\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}(\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}10), respectively.
EyeMusic v1.0

EyeMusic v1.0 explores how eye movements can be sonified to show where a person is looking using sound, and how this sonification can be used in real time to create music. EyeMusic provides a unique physical interface to an electronic music composition. An eye tracking device (the LC Technologies Eyegaze Communication System) reports where the performer is looking on the computer screen, as well as other parameters pertaining to the status of the eyes. The eye tracker reports these data in real time to a computer program (written using Max / MSP/Jitter). The computer program generates and modifies sounds and images based on these data.While the eye is, in ordinary human usage, an organ of perception, EyeMusic v1.0 allows for it to be a manipulator as well. EyeMusic creates an unusual feedback loop. The performer may be motivated to look at a physical location either to process it visually (the usual motivation for an eye movement) or to create a sound (a new motivation). These two motivations can work together to achieve perceptualmotor harmony and also to create music along the way. The two motivations can also generate some conflict, though, as when the gaze moves close to an object to set up a specific sonic or visual effect, but resists the inclination to look directly at the object. Through it all, EyeMusic explores how the eyes can be used to directly perform a musical composition.
Global control of hepatitis C virus

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a blood-borne disease that infects ~185 million people (~3% of the world's population) worldwide (1). It can result in severe liver disease and is the leading cause of liver cancer in many countries. Although directly acting antivirals (DAAs) that target the viral life cycle have created enormous optimism about controlling HCV infection, achieving that goal remains a substantial challenge. Both acute and chronic infections are largely asymptomatic, infection incidence is rising in the United States (2), and comprehensive screening programs are rare in the most highly endemic regions of the world. As a result, less than 5% of the world's HCV-infected population, and only 50% of the United States' HCV-infected population, are aware that they are infected (3, 4) (see the figure). Most of these individuals will not receive treatment and will remain at risk for transmitting the infection to others. Successful control of HCV infection will most likely require a combination of mass global screening to identify those with infection, treatment, and prevention. Prophylactic HCV vaccination would also go a long way to reducing harm for uninfected people who are at risk.
The End of Public Schools? Or a New Beginning?

AbstractPublic education is becoming increasingly privatized as private philanthropic organizations, such as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and corporations, such as Pearson, dominate the policy-making process, and more students enroll in publicly funded but privately administered charter schools. The privatization of education results from the dominance of neoliberal ideals promoting market competition, individualism, and standardized testing. In response, we call for replacing neoliberalism with social democratic policies emphasizing community, trust, and democratic deliberation.
Entrepreneurial orientation: A review and synthesis of promising research directions

This review article analyzes and synthesizes key research on the topic of entrepreneurial orientation (EO) in a scholarly effort to provide an integrative guide which enables researchers to more readily assimilate influential works on EO and thereby more productively contribute to the ever-evolving EO conversation in the literature. The article reviews and synthesizes promising directions in the EO research domain from a variety of perspectives, including how EO is manifest, how building on the Miller/Covin and Slevin conceptualization facilitates knowledge accumulation, which theories have been suggested as relevant to advancing the EO conversation, EO model building directions including the demand for longitudinal research, measurement considerations and implications, and the enduring unanswered call for qualitative research.
The Duty of Rescue and Disembarkation in the Law of the Sea: Customary and Conventional Perspectives

The minimalist approach of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (1982) (“UNCLOS”), a 163 member multilateral treaty sometimes known as the ‘constitution of the oceans,’ and in relevant respects, reflective of customary international law of the sea, allows for strong anti-immigration territorial sovereignty arguments in contravention of its rescue provisions. Because of the perceived need to tighten border security, and the actions of some European States to close borders entirely, it is necessary to reassert the binding nature of these rescue provisions in their traditional construction, as defined by their historical origins, to prevent wrongful infringement of the customary law of the sea’s duty to rescue.
Enhanced Nucleation of Pt Particles on Boron-Treated Highly Oriented Pyrolytic Graphite via Chemical Vapor Deposition

The nucleation of Pt particles from CH3CpPt(CH3)3 on boron-treated highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG) was investigated. HOPG was enhanced with B from diborane using hot wire chemical vapor deposition to generate BDx fragments that dissociatively adsorbed on the HOPG surface and subsequently reacted with the sp2 C lattice. Unreacted BDx fragments either reacted with the HOPG or desorbed during annealing. Pt was deposited using chemical vapor deposition. Platinized B-treated HOPG samples exhibited enhanced Pt dispersion and uniform nucleation as compared with cleaved and annealed HOPG samples. Pt particle density is shown to be tunable using varying B exposures. This study demonstrates that the optimization of Pt dispersion and adhesion to HOPG substrates is achievable using a scalable chemical enhancement method.
Infrared and Raman characteristics of bulk Cd1-xMnxTe and (MnTe)m/(CdTe)n short period superlattices

Abstract Comprehensive results of phonon dispersions are reported for the prominent (MnTe)m/(CdTe)n superlattices (SLs) by exploiting a realistic rigid-ion-model – involving both short- and long-range Coulomb interactions. Unlike conventional methods, the study offered clear support to anisotropic optical mode behavior, confinement, acoustic-mode anti-crossing, and mini-gap formation. The conformity of simulated reflectivity/transmission spectra at oblique incidence, and the Raman intensity profiles validating experimental data, has elucidated its ability to characterize epitaxial films and SLs. Contriving the phonon energy spectrum by selecting apposite SL periods can create exciting opportunities of improving electrical/thermal properties of nanostructure based devices.
Confucian Role Ethics: A Critical Survey

This article surveys recent scholarship on Confucian role ethics, examines some of its fundamental commitments, and suggests future directions for scholarship. Role ethics interprets early Confucianism as promoting a relational conception of persons and employs this conception to emphasize how a person's roles and relationships are the source of her ethical obligations and ethical growth. While there is much consensus among role ethic scholars, they disagree over the role of theory in further explicating the view and about the metaphysical basis of relational persons. Strong and moderate versions of role ethics emerge, and the article explores the strengths and weaknesses of both.
Sub-5 nm, globally aligned graphene nanoribbons on Ge(001)

Graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) hold great promise for future electronics because of their edge and width dependent electronic bandgaps and exceptional transport properties. While significant progress toward GNR devices has been made, the field has been limited by difficulties achieving narrow widths, global alignment, and atomically pristine GNR edges on technologically relevant substrates. A recent advance has challenged these limits by using Ge(001) substrates to direct the bottom-up growth of GNRs with nearly pristine armchair edges and widths near ∼10 nm via atmospheric pressure chemical vapor deposition. In this work, the growth of GNRs on Ge(001) is extended to ultra-high vacuum conditions, resulting in the realization of GNRs with widths narrower than 5 nm. Armchair graphene nanoribbons oriented along Ge 〈110〉 surface directions are achieved with excellent width control and relatively large bandgaps. The bandgap magnitude and electronic uniformity of these sub-5 nm GNRs are well-suited for emerging na...
Examining the Effects of Restorative Justice in African States

An important part of the democratization process is the creation of an effective judiciary. Nonetheless, few studies have examined the judicial experience in the African context. Most studies have been single case analyses (Haynie 2000; Prempeh 2006) as opposed to systematic comparative analysis. This paper proposes to examine the impact of the effects of systems that mix elements of indigenous and western judicial practicesor so called Restorative Justice Systems. It has been argued that judicial systems that include indigeneous traditional elements will be more effective in promoting trust in institutions, human rights performance, and battling corruption than the colonial systems that were inherited from the past (Elechi, 2004; Macfarlane, 2007). However, these studies have been mostly descriptive, and have not analyzed the impact of these hybrid systems. What are the effects of such systems? Does adopting such a system improve the systems performance (in terms of promoting legitimacy, improving human rights, and reducing corruption)? Using data from the Afrobarometer, the CIRI dataset on human rights, and the Corruption Perceptions Index, we compare African countries that employ restorative justice system to those that do not.
Primary prevention of hypertension: rationale, approaches, realities and perspectives.

Cardiovascular disease is the most common cause of death in economically developed countries and is a rapidly evolving cause of mortality and morbidity in the industrialized nations of Eastern Europe and in economically developing countries. To produce a meaningful reduction in morbidity and mortality, management of patients with existing cardiovascular disease must be coupled with treatment and prevention of hypertension and other major modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Prevention of hypertension is best achieved by concurrent application of general population and targeted approaches aimed at reducing body weight, sodium intake and alcohol consumption, and at increasing physical activity. Although the lifestyle changes necessary for a meaningful impact on body weight, sodium intake, alcohol consumption and physical activity are difficult to achieve and maintain, the corresponding potential for benefit is great. Given the existing and projected burden of illness from blood pressure-related cardiovascular disease, primary prevention of hypertension should be accorded Increasing importance both at an international as well as a national level.
SU-F-T-510: Single Isocenter Radiosurgery for the Simultaneous Treatment of Multiple Brain Metastases: Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy Or Dynamic Conformal Arc?

Purpose: This study evaluates a novel algorithm that can be used with any treatment planning system for simple and rapid generation of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) plans for treating multiple brain metastases using a single isocenter dynamic conformal arc (DCA) approach. This technique is compared with a single isocenter volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) technique in terms of delivery time, conformity, low dose spread and delivery accuracy. Methods: Five patients, with a total of 37 (5 – 11) targets were planned using a previously published method for generating optimal VMAT plans and using the proposed DCA algorithm. All planning target volumes (PTVs) were planned to 20 Gy, meeting a minimum 99% coverage and maximum 135 % hot spot for both techniques. Quality assurance was performed using radiochromic film, with films placed in the high dose regions of each PTV. Normal tissue volumes receiving 12 Gy and 6 Gy (V12 and V6) were computed for each plan. Conformity index (CI) and gamma evaluations (95% of points passing 4%/0.5mm) were computed for each PTV. Results: Delivery times, including beam on and table rotation times, were comparable: 17 – 22 minutes for all deliveries. V12s for DCA plans were (18.5±15.2 cc) vs. VMAT (19.7±14.4 cc). V6s were significantly lower for DCA (69.0±52.0 cc) compared with VMAT (154.0±91.0 cc) (p <<0.05). CIs for VMAT targets were (1.38±0.50) vs. DCA (1.61±0.41). 36 of 37 DCA planned targets passed gamma tests, while 29 of 37 VMAT planned targets passed. Conclusion: Single isocenter DCA plans were easily achieved. The evaluation suggests that DCA may represent a favorable technique compared with VMAT for multiple target SRS by reducing dose to normal tissue and more accurately depicting deliverable dose.
Sublinear photoconductivity and the photorefractive effect

The photorefractive effect is a nonlinear optical phenomenon in which mutually coherent waves interact in a photoconducting electrooptic material in a manner akin to real time holography or phase conjugation. The strength, or maximum diffraction efficiency, of the photorefractive effect is in dependent of intensity and has been observed with nanowatts of total power, given sufficient buildup time. The speed of hologram formation is proportional to the photoconductivity of the material used and high speed photorefractive devices will require higher optical power, although the choice of material plays a large role as well.
Peptide Downregulation of the Immune Response

Publisher Summary The concept of peptide immunotherapy has emerged based on animal studies that have shown that it is possible to down regulate T cells through the administration of non-immunogenic T cell-active peptides (specific T cell epitopes) designed from the principal allergen of cat. The observation that T cell-reactive peptides from defined allergens can down regulate T cell functions provides an opportunity to immunize allergic patients through a more precise antigen-specific methodology. Since these T cell-reactive peptides exhibit very little or no IgE-binding activity, they can be utilized at higher, more effective doses, with reduced occurrence of IgE-mediated adverse events. These studies begin to demonstrate the clinical activity and therapeutic benefit of tolerogenic peptide immunotherapy in the treatment of patients with allergic disease. Further studies to characterize the dose, frequency and duration of therapy should better define the place of peptide immunotherapy in the treatment of patients with allergic disease.
Superior vesical fissure concealed by giant omphalocele: A case report

Abstract Omphalocele is an abdominal wall defect characterized by exteriorization of abdominal viscera that is covered by a membrane. Omphalocele has a well-known association with chromosome abnormalities. Here we present a case of a superior vesical fissure (SVF) initially disguised as a giant omphalocele in a newborn with trisomy 18. We also show unique prenatal imaging and discuss the importance and limitations of prenatal genetic testing.
Tailoring dielectric resonator geometries for directional scattering, Huygens' metasurfaces, and high quality-factor Fano resonances

Metamaterial dielectric resonators represent a promising path toward low-loss metamaterials at optical frequencies. In this paper we utilize perturbations of high symmetry resonator geometries, such as cubes, either to overlap the electric and magnetic dipole resonances, thereby enabling directional scattering and Huygens' metasurfaces, or to induce couplings between the otherwise orthogonal resonator modes to achieve high-quality factor Fano resonances. Our results are fully scalable across any frequency bands where high-permittivity dielectric materials are available, including microwave, THz, and infrared frequencies.
The Throughput Potential of Cognitive Radio: A Theoretical Perspective

Cognitive radios are promising solutions to the problem of overcrowded and inefficient licensed spectrum. In this work we explore the throughput potential of cognitive communication. We summarize different cognitive radio techniques that underlay, overlay and interweave the transmissions of the cognitive user with those of the licensed users. Recently proposed models for cognitive radios based on the overlay technique are described. For the interweave technique, we present a `two switch' cognitive radio model and develop inner and outer bounds on the secondary radio capacity. Using the two switch model, we investigate the inherent tradeoff between the sensitivity of primary detection and the cognitive link capacity. With numerical results, we compare the throughputs achieved by the secondary user in the different models.
Spinal fractures in older adult patients admitted after low-level falls: 10-year incidence and outcomes

Objectives To evaluate the incidence of spinal fractures and their outcomes in the elderly who fall from low-levels in a suburban county. Design Retrospective county-wide trauma registry review from 2004 to 2013. Setting Suburban county with regionalized trauma care consisting of 11 hospitals. Participants Adult trauma patients aged ≥65 years who were admitted after falling from <3 feet. Measurements Demographic characteristics, comorbidities, and outcomes. Results Spinal fractures occurred in 18% of 4,202 older adult patients admitted following trauma over this 10-year time period, in the following distribution: 43% cervical spine, 5.7% thoracic, 4.9% lumbar spine, 36% sacrococcygeal, and 9.6% multiple spinal regions. As compared to non-spinal fracture patients, more spinal fracture patients went to acute/subacute rehabilitation (47% vs 34%, P < .001) and fewer were discharged home (21% vs 35%, P < .001). In-hospital mortality rate in spinal and non-spinal fracture patients was similar (8.5% vs 9.3%, P = .5). Conclusion Low-level falls often resulted in a spinal fracture at a variety of levels. Vigilance in evaluation of the entire spine in this population is suggested.
Implementation of clinical next-generation sequencing (NGS) of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) to identify EGFR amplification as a potentially targetable oncogenic alteration.

8090 Background: Tumor genotyping has become fundamental in the care of NSCLC. Targeted NGS can simultaneously test for oncogenic mutations, rearrangements, and amplifications using one platform an...
Review of Recent Methodological Developments in Group-Randomized Trials: Part 2--Analysis.

In 2004, Murray et al. reviewed methodological developments in the design and analysis of group-randomized trials (GRTs). We have updated that review with developments in analysis of the past 13 years, with a companion article to focus on developments in design.We discuss developments in the topics of the earlier review (e.g., methods for parallel-arm GRTs, individually randomized group-treatment trials, and missing data) and in new topics, including methods to account for multiple-level clustering and alternative estimation methods (e.g., augmented generalized estimating equations, targeted maximum likelihood, and quadratic inference functions).In addition, we describe developments in analysis of alternative group designs (including stepped-wedge GRTs, network-randomized trials, and pseudocluster randomized trials), which require clustering to be accounted for in their design and analysis.
Automated Risk Assessment for School Violence: a Pilot Study

School violence has increased over the past ten years. This study evaluated students using a more standard and sensitive method to help identify students who are at high risk for school violence. 103 participants were recruited through Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center (CCHMC) from psychiatry outpatient clinics, the inpatient units, and the emergency department. Participants (ages 12–18) were active students in 74 traditional schools (i.e. non-online education). Collateral information was gathered from guardians before participants were evaluated. School risk evaluations were performed with each participant, and audio recordings from the evaluations were later transcribed and manually annotated. The BRACHA (School Version) and the School Safety Scale (SSS), both 14-item scales, were used. A template of open-ended questions was also used. This analysis included 103 participants who were recruited from 74 different schools. Of the 103 students evaluated, 55 were found to be moderate to high risk and 48 were found to be low risk based on the paper risk assessments including the BRACHA and SSS. Both the BRACHA and the SSS were highly correlated with risk of violence to others (Pearson correlations>0.82). There were significant differences in BRACHA and SSS total scores between low risk and high risk to others groups (p-values <0.001 under unpaired t-test). In particular, there were significant differences in individual SSS items between the two groups (p-value <0.001). Of these items, Previous Violent Behavior (Pearson Correlation = 0.80), Impulsivity (0.69), School Problems (0.64), and Negative Attitudes (0.61) were positively correlated with risk to others. The novel machine learning algorithm achieved an AUC of 91.02% when using the interview content to predict risk of school violence, and the AUC increased to 91.45% when demographic and socioeconomic data were added. Our study indicates that the BRACHA and SSS are clinically useful for assessing risk for school violence. The machine learning algorithm was highly accurate in assessing school violence risk.
Introduction Early Development and Cell Commitment

The genome of most eukaryotic organisms is constant and perpetuates itself through numerous cell generations by replication. Yet, during embryogenesis, there is increasing cellular diversity, yielding a multitude of cell-specific phe- notypes. Cells become different from one another, and their developmental potential is progressively restricted. The determined state and the overtly differentiated state are exceedingly stable and heritable during normal development. However, various perturbations, both natural and artificially induced, can result in a modulation of cellular phenotypes. It is the purpose of this volume to analyze the nature of the stability of the differentiated state and the ability to reverse the differentiated phenotype. It is not intended to be all- inclusive and, in fact, we have chosen certain biological systems that require further exploration but that have the potential for helping us to understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying these processes.
Mechanisms of Cortical Computation

The purpose of this chapter is to explore the computational principles underlying cortical function. We will consider ideas proposed in a large number of recent theoretical models that present a range of interesting, and sometimes conflicting, mechanisms. We will try to tie these theoretical principles to the underlying biology, and will spend most of our time considering the link between the intrinsic properties of neurons and the informationprocessing abilities of cortical circuits. We will consider computations carried out across different cortical areas, associated with processes ranging from sensory detection in vision, audition, and olfaction, to recognition, memory, and categorization.
Evaluation of the Aptima HCV Quant Dx Assay Using Serum and Dried Blood Spots.

ABSTRACT Hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA quantitation is the primary method by which active HCV infections are identified and the response to direct-acting antiviral therapy is monitored. This study describes the evaluation of the Aptima HCV Quant Dx assay (Aptima HCV) performed on the Panther system. The clinical performance of Aptima HCV was compared to that of the Cobas AmpliPrep/Cobas TaqMan HCV test v2.0 (CAP/CTM). Overall agreement was 84.9% (186/219) with a kappa statistic of 0.755 (standard error, 0.037; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.682 to 0.828). Passing-Bablok regression of log10 IU/ml values revealed a regression line of Y = 1.163 × X − 0.991 (95% CI of the slope, 1.103 to 1.221, and intercept, −1.341 to −0.642). The 95% lower limit of detection (LLOD) for Aptima HCV on dried blood spot (DBS) samples was calculated to be 2.43 log10 IU/ml (267 IU/ml; 95% CI, 2.31 to 2.73 log10 IU/ml [204 to 540 IU/ml]). A comparison of Aptima HCV testing on paired DBS and serum specimens collected from patients at the time of routine blood collection for CAP/CTM demonstrated an overall agreement of 90.1% (82/91) with a kappa statistic of 0.657 (standard error, 0.101; 95% CI, 0.458 to 0.855). In conclusion, Aptima HCV provides a suitable alternative for HCV RNA testing on serum and DBS samples.
Poverty: Beyond Obscurantism

Many widely used poverty measures generate inconsistency and incoherence because of their failure to be adequately grounded in a conception of what ultimately matters and why. Obscurantism in relation to underlying values is the ultimate source of the observed difficulties. Only poverty measures that are consistently grounded in a suitable value framework can provide a sound basis for public discussion and decision-making. Practical methods for implementing such an approach exist.
Erratum for Ahyong et al., “A Metabolic Dependency for Host Isoprenoids in the Obligate Intracellular Pathogen Rickettsia parkeri Underlies a Sensitivity to the Statin Class of Host-Targeted Therapeutics”

Volume 4, no. 6, e00536-19, 2019, [https://doi.org/10.1128/mSphere.00536-19][1]. [Fig. 3][2]: An incorrect version of this figure appeared in the published article. The correct figure is shown below. ![FIG 3][3] FIG 3 Targeted mass spectrometry of bacterial and host isoprenoids. Shown is
Values-Based Leadership: Exploring Exemplary Approaches

This chapter chronicles the genesis and development of an important journal, called the Journal of Values-Based Leadership (JVBL). As the process of defining various parameters unfolded, several broad-based topics of universal interest quickly emerged and included theories and orientations based upon faith, spirituality, environmental sustainability, servant leadership, authenticity, and corporate social responsibility. From these general topics, specific approaches to principled leadership have been derived. The central theme throughout the journal’s life has been principled leadership – ethically premised orientations of guidance rooted in various concentrations. In analyzing the various approaches propounded over the years, there has inevitably been a crossover of overall thematic components, but nuances of each theory remain distinctively remarkable.
Introduction to Wave Propagation in Nonlinear Fluids and Solids

Preface Nomenclature Introduction 1. Fundamentals 2. Mechanical waves 3. Thermomechanics 4. Constitutive models Appendix A: numerical methods Appendix B: material properties References Index.
Application of a novel analytical pipeline for high-dimensional multivariate mediation analysis of environmental data

ABSTRACT Diverse toxicological mechanisms may mediate the impact of environmental toxicants (phthalates, phenols, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and metals) on pregnancy outcomes. In this study we introduce an analytical pipeline for high-dimensional mediation analysis to identify mediation pathways (q = 63 mediators) in the relationship between environmental toxicants (p = 38 analytes) and gestational age at delivery. Our analytical pipeline included: (1) conducting pairwise mediation for unique exposure-mediator combinations, (2) subjecting mediators to Bayesian shrinkage mediation analysis and population value decomposition, and (3) exposure dimension reduction by estimating environmental risk scores. Dimension reduction demonstrated that a one unit increase in phthalate risk score was associated with a total effect of 1.09 lower gestational age (in weeks) at delivery (95% confidence interval: 1.78 – 0.36) and eicosanoids from the cytochrome p450 pathway mediated 24.5% of this effect (95% confidence interval: 4%-66%). Eicosanoid products derived from the cytochrome p450 pathway may be important mediators of phthalate toxicity.
The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Cardiovascular Fellows-in-Training: A National Survey.

The coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has prompted a dramatic reorganization of health care systems and medical training programs across the United States. At many hospitals, cardiovascular fellows-in-training (FITs) provide front-line clinical care. The traditional cardiovascular
U.S. children’s understanding of the English alphabet: Its acquisition, conceptualization, and measurement.

Construct confusion and measurement challenges have plagued emergent literacy research for decades. Using a 2 × 2 × 2 factorial design, this study evaluated the dimensionality of alphabet knowledge and identified the sequence of development of 8 alphabet knowledge skills. Eleven models were evaluated in a sample of 3,692 preschool- and elementary school-age children. Findings supported a unidimensional conceptualization of alphabet knowledge that includes letter name knowledge and letter sound knowledge but not the ability to discriminate letters from nonalphabetic characters. Test information curves and significance tests of model constraints revealed reliable main and interaction effects of test format, capitalization, and component skills on items’ discriminations and difficulties. Implications for improving the measurement of alphabet knowledge are discussed in recognition that doing so will support advancement of theory, research, educational practice, and ultimately student achievement. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved)
Epigenetic Mechanisms Underlying Adult Post Stroke Neurogenesis

Stroke remains the leading cause of adult disability. Post-stroke neurogenesis contributes to functional recovery. As an intrinsic neurorestorative process, it is important to elucidate the molecular mechanism underlying stroke-induced neurogenesis and to develop therapies designed specifically to augment neurogenesis. Epigenetic mechanisms include DNA methylation, histone modification and its mediation by microRNAs and long-non-coding RNAs. In this review, we highlight how epigenetic factors including DNA methylation, histone modification, microRNAs and long-non-coding RNAs mediate stroke-induced neurogenesis including neural stem cell self-renewal and cell fate determination. We also summarize therapies targeting these mechanisms in the treatment of stroke.
Evaluation of Outpatient Pediatric Spirometry Audits: Comparison of Respiratory Therapy and Nursing Compliance

Background: Spirometry is a physiological test that measures how a patient inhales or exhales gas as a function of time. The American Thoracic Society (ATS) guides spirometry standards to ensure that spirometry results are accurately interpreted and influence care appropriately. Accuracy of pediatric spirometry ranges from 37-95%.1,2 In our health system, Registered Nurses (RNs) and Registered Respiratory Therapists perform pediatric spirometry. Audits of completed spirometry are reviewed by trained PFT staff for acceptability based on ATS Standards (Table 1). We reviewed audit results to evaluate for differences based on provider credential type. Methods: In an IRB approved retrospective analysis, we reviewed and compared pediatric spirometry audits from 11/2019-03/2020. Audits were split into groups based on credentials of the spirometry technician (RPFT, RRT, CPFT, RN). We analyzed the spirometry audits for alignment with ATS standards based on spirometry technician user. 60 RN preformed spirometries and 60 RT preformed spirometries were randomly selected and compared. Results: In 120 pediatric spirometry audits, patients ages were 7-19 years (average 11.2 years). When comparing RN to RT spirometry audit compliance with ATS standards we found that RNs submitted spirometry that was compliant with ATS standards 63.08% of the time. In comparison, RTs submitted compliant spirometry results 79.24% of the time. In the 60 RT audited spirometry tests 42 were done by RRTs, 6 by CPFTs and 12 by RPFTs. When comparing RT specific credentials, those with RPFT had the greatest percentage of compliance with ATS standards, followed by CPFT, then RRT (graph 1). Conclusions: In our pediatric hospital, compliance with ATS standards, as indicated by spirometry audits was demonstrated best by professionals with the RPFT credential. The need for extensive training and auditing should be mandated for all professionals preforming pediatric spirometry to ensure accuracy of results aligned with ATS standards. More research is needed to assess the potential impact of training and spirometry audits within the field of pediatrics. References: 1. Loeb J, et al. Acceptability and repeatability of spirometry in children using updated ATS/ERS criteria. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2008;43(10):doi:10.1002/ppul.20908 2. Perez-Yarza E, et al. Forced spirometry in healthy preschool children. An Pediatr (Barc). 2009;70(1):doi:10.1016/j.anpedi.2008.10.003
Information Technology Tools for Palliative Care for Populations

The majority of global deaths is characterized by misery and limited palliation, and for most cancer patients, access to primary care practitioners and oncologists is limited. Calls for training these specialists and palliative care physician specialists, even if heeded, cannot be expected to meet the growing palliative care needs of populations.
Mitochondria signaling to the epigenome: A novel role for an old organelle

Epigenetic modifications influence gene expression programs ultimately dictating physiological outcomes. In the past decades, an increasing body of work has demonstrated that the enzymes that deposit and/or remove epigenetic marks on DNA or histones use metabolites as substrates or co-factors, rendering the epigenome sensitive to metabolic changes. In this context, acetyl-CoA and α-ketoglutarate have been recognized as critical for epigenetics, impinging on histone marks and nuclear DNA methylation patterns. Given that these metabolites are primarily generated in the mitochondria through the tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA), the requirement of proper mitochondrial function for maintenance of the epigenetic landscape seems obvious. Nevertheless, it was not until recently when the epigenomic outcomes of mitochondrial dysfunction were tested, revealing mitochondria's far-reaching impact on epigenetics. This review will focus on data that directly tested the role of mitochondria on the epigenetic landscape, the mechanisms by which mitochondrial dysfunction may dysregulate the epigenome and gene expression, and their potential implications to health and disease.
Cell-Inspired Biomaterials for Modulating Inflammation

Inflammation is a crucial part of wound healing and pathogen clearance. However, it can also play a role in exacerbating chronic diseases and cancer progression when not regulated properly. A subse...
Artificial Intelligence Guided Physician Directive Improves Head and Neck Planning Quality and Practice Uniformity: A Prospective Study.

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S) Heterogeneity of clinical practice is a common challenge, especially for head and neck cancer. Our in-house built artificial intelligence (AI) dose prediction model holds promise to predict the best possible dose distribution without going through planning process. Our prior single physician study demonstrated that hybrid of physician intelligence and artificial intelligence achieved better plan than solely using AI estimated directive or physician directive. In this work, we implemented hybrid directive approach in four head and neck physicians with different practice styles and prospectively studied the improvement in head and neck planning quality and practice uniformity. MATERIALS/METHODS Definitive and post-operative AI models were fully integrated with treatment planning system via application programming interface (API). The physicians run the prediction upon the completion of contour to preview the predicted 3D dose and the uncertainty estimation. As a hybrid approach, physicians compare the AI estimation with their own directive to make final decision on the directives for treatment planning. A group of 60 retrospective cases and 60 prospective cases were included in this study. The physician directive before AI guidance (PD) and the AI guided physician directive (AG-PD) were compared as well as the achieved plans. A dose difference of 3 Gray (Gy) was considered clinically significant. RESULTS Among the four H&N physicians, there are three different practice styles and led to a large variation in PD before AI employed. There is only 51% frequency that resulted plan achieved within 3 Gy from the PD. With the AI-guidance, the variations among the physicians significantly improved. Despite the fact that the AG-PD are more mostly strict than the PD, the frequency that the resulted plan achieved within 3 Gy from the AG-PD significantly improved to 86%. The improvements were mostly statistically significant (P < 0.05) at the organs at risk that physicians frequently make planning tradeoff, such as oral cavity, larynx, and salivary glands. (Table 1) CONCLUSION: AI guided physician decision support improved the uniformity of practice, directive achievability, and the final plan metrics in a significant percentage of patients.
Long-Term Recurrent Convolutional Network-based Inertia Estimation using Ambient Measurements.

Conventional synchronous machines are gradually replaced by converter-based renewable resources. As a result, synchronous inertia, an important time-varying quantity, has substantially more impact on modern power systems stability. The increasing integration of renewable energy resources imports different dynamics into traditional power systems; therefore, the estimation of system inertia using mathematical model becomes more difficult. In this paper, we propose a novel learning-assisted inertia estimation model based on long-term recurrent convolutional network (LRCN) that uses system wide frequency and phase voltage measurements. The proposed approach uses a non-intrusive probing signal to perturb the system and collects ambient measurements with phasor measurement units (PMU) to train the proposed LRCN model. Case studies are conducted on the IEEE 24-bus system. Under a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of 60dB condition, the proposed LRCN based inertia estimation model achieves an accuracy of 97.56% with a mean squared error (MSE) of 0.0552. Furthermore, with a low SNR of 45dB, the proposed learning-assisted inertia estimation model is still able to achieve a high accuracy of 93.07%.
Frequency distribution of egg mass of passerine and non-passerine birds based on Schönwetter's tables

Frequency distributions of egg mass for more than 3000 species each of passerine and non-passerine birds derived from the tables ofSchonwetter are lognormal in form.