cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Social Network Model of Construction

Engineering and construction projects are dependent on two fundamental elements: (1) the ability to plan and manage the technical components of the project such as the tasks and resources; and (2) the ability of the project participants to effectively develop into a high performance team. Historically, the industry has focused extensively on optimizing the project management processes associated with the former element. In this focus, organizations have emphasized the ability to develop the optimum plan, allocate resources efficiently, and utilize control functions to ensure that the project stays on schedule and within budget. Although this has been effective, this engineering focus has reached the point of diminishing results. Specifically, the engineering approach to project management has neglected to recognize the importance of the participants to the success of the overall project. Rather, the engineering approach has favored the development of an optimum plan as the path to effective project management. In this paper, the engineering-based approach to project success is reconfigured to reemphasize the need to develop high performing teams by recognizing the importance of the project network. This recognition is formalized in the social network model of construction that integrates classic project management concepts with social science variables to enhance the focus on knowledge sharing as the foundation for achieving high performance teams and project results.
Non-Equilibrium Electrical Properties of Semiconductors

In the previous chapter, we established the basic relations and formalism for the distribution of electrons in the conduction band and holes in the valence band at thermal equilibrium.
Classification of Cancer Primary Sites Using Machine Learning and Somatic Mutations

An accurate classification of human cancer, including its primary site, is important for better understanding of cancer and effective therapeutic strategies development. The available big data of somatic mutations provides us a great opportunity to investigate cancer classification using machine learning. Here, we explored the patterns of 1,760,846 somatic mutations identified from 230,255 cancer patients along with gene function information using support vector machine. Specifically, we performed a multiclass classification experiment over the 17 tumor sites using the gene symbol, somatic mutation, chromosome, and gene functional pathway as predictors for 6,751 subjects. The performance of the baseline using only gene features is 0.57 in accuracy. It was improved to 0.62 when adding the information of mutation and chromosome. Among the predictable primary tumor sites, the prediction of five primary sites (large intestine, liver, skin, pancreas, and lung) could achieve the performance with more than 0.70 in F-measure. The model of the large intestine ranked the first with 0.87 in F-measure. The results demonstrate that the somatic mutation information is useful for prediction of primary tumor sites with machine learning modeling. To our knowledge, this study is the first investigation of the primary sites classification using machine learning and somatic mutation data.
Mentoring as Metaphor: An Opportunity for Innovation and Renewal.

Mentoring can be a useful metaphor for teaching because it derives its reference from the academy and focuses more on the learner and positive outcomes. Examining teaching within this context allows for a different analysis of teaching and the learning process and provides the opportunity for both renewal and change.
A comprehensive strategy to combat colon cancer targeting the adenomatous polyposis coli tumor suppressor gene

Somatic cells in the majority of colorectal polyps and cancers contain mutations/deletions in the adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) tumor suppressor gene. APC is involved in normal intestinal development and acts to influence a variety of cellular processes. Loss of APC function leads to intestinal neoplasia in both mice and humans. APC influences expression of specific genes, including the c-Myc oncogene, which functions as a transcriptional activator. Loss of APC function leads to alterations in c-Myc-regulated genes including ornithine decarboxylase (ODC), the first enzyme in polyamine synthesis. A single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the ODC promoter affecting c-Myc-dependent expression has been associated with risk of colorectal and other cancers. Pharmaceuticals that target structural features of the c-Myc promoter, and suppress expression of c-Myc and other genes regulated by similar promoter elements, are being developed as potential colorectal cancer chemotherapies. Difluoromethylornithine (DFMO), a selective inhibitor of ODC, is under clinical evaluation as a colorectal cancer chemopreventive agent. APC and APC-dependent genes, such as c-Myc and ODC, may be useful as genetic markers of risk and as targets for chemoprevention and therapy for colorectal cancer.
Interval appendectomy in perforated appendicitis

The treatment of the perforated appendix re- mains controversial, with the optimal timing of surgical intervention unclear. Previous studies have documented an increase in both minor and major complication rates in patients undergoing appendectomy for perforated appendi- citis. We sought to evaluate the nonoperative therapy of perforated appendicitis followed by interval appendectomy. The charts of all children undergoing admission for appen- dicitis during a 10-year period (n = 480) were reviewed. Data were abstracted regarding patient presentation, labora- tory and radiologic findings, operative and pathology reports, and postoperative course in those patients with perforated appendicitis (n =- 104), Comparisons were made between patients undergoing primary appendectomy for perforated appendicitis (n = 87) and those treated with IV antibiotics and hydration and then scheduled for interval appendectomy 4 to 6 weeks following the acute event (n = 17). Treatment assignment was determined by the attending pediatric surgeon in a non-randomized fashion. No significant differences were seen between these two groups in days of antibiotic treatment, nasogastric decom- pression, and IV hydration. Additionally, total hospital days and cost did not differ significantly between the two groups (primary = 10.3 days and $10,550; interval = 13.3 days and $13,221, P = 0.11 and 0.21, respectively). The overall complication rates, 12.6% in the primary group and 5.9% in the interval group, also did not differ significantly, while the major complication rate (wound dehiscence, abscess, and small-bowel obstruction), 10% versus 0%, was signifi- cantly higher in the primary group as compared with the interval group. Our data demonstrate no significant disad- vantage, and possibly an improvement in the major com- plication rate, with nonoperative treatment of perforated appendicitis followed by interval appendectomy. We sug- gest that this treatment modality should be considered when evaluating the child with perforated appendicitis.
A heuristical approach for Farmer's problem with uniform continuous random yields

The L-shaped method is useful for solving two-stage stochastic linear programming problems which have the form of a master problem and several subproblems represented by the side model. In order to make this approach possible, the random vector ξ, which is bringing the uncertainty into the model, must have finite support. With finite support we may write the deterministic equivalent program in the extensive form which is solvable by decomposition. To avoid the problems arising from the random elements that have continuous probability distributions, an approximate discretisation is needed. In this paper, the uniform continuous probability distributions of the yields in the Farmer's problem are discretised by using one of the low-discrepancy sequences, called Faure sequence, and based on the obtained approximate discrete distribution a heuristic is proposed to approximate the solution to the problem.
Lake Drawdown: The Value Of 2 Inches Of Water

This study uses the hedonic price model to estimate the effect a change in water level has on the value of real estate on Lake Koshkonong in Wisconsin. Hedonic techniques are employed to show that a 2 inch reduction in the lake’s water level had a significant effect on Lake Koshkonong’s shoreline property values. The body of existing research demonstrates that changes in both the subjective and objective indicators of value are important for estimating the implicit value of water quality in hedonic analyses. This paper provides new evidence on the economic harm created by the reduction of water levels and the concurrent publicity created by the action.
A technique for continuous measurement of body movement from video

The movements that we make with our body vary continuously along multiple dimensions. However, many of the tools and techniques presently used for coding and analyzing hand gestures and other body movements yield categorical outcome variables. Focusing on categorical variables as the primary quantitative outcomes may mislead researchers or distort conclusions. Moreover, categorical systems may fail to capture the richness present in movement. Variations in body movement may be informative in multiple dimensions. For example, a single hand gesture has a unique size, height of production, trajectory, speed, and handshape. Slight variations in any of these features may alter how both the speaker and the listener are affected by gesture. In this paper, we describe a new method for measuring and visualizing the physical trajectory of movement using video. This method is generally accessible, requiring only video data and freely available computer software. This method allows researchers to examine features of hand gestures, body movement, and other motion, including size, height, curvature, and speed. We offer a detailed account of how to implement this approach, and we also offer some guidelines for situations where this approach may be fruitful in revealing how the body expresses information. Finally, we provide data from a small study on how speakers alter their hand gestures in response to different characteristics of a stimulus to demonstrate the utility of analyzing continuous dimensions of motion. By creating shared methods, we hope to facilitate communication between researchers from varying methodological traditions.
Faith Islands in Hedonopolis: Ambivalent Adaptation in Las Vegas

As a so-called Sin City, Las Vegas is a unique city to explore the interaction between religion and place. Within the realm of faith tradition, the membership of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons or LDS) has played a historically significant role in the city’s development and, today, it is ranked second in total local membership after Catholics. I invoke the metaphor of a “faith island” to understand the LDS connection to and negotiation with the Sin City, “hedonopolis” image that is often at odds with church teachings, but that is also a prominent part of daily life in southern Nevada. I analyze this relationship using interviews, participant observation and informal interactions within the local LDS population over the course of many years I have lived in and visited the city. Las Vegas Mormons look to the membership and teachings of their church as a source of protection and strength against influences that may challenge their faith. The tension between faith and the surrounding hedonopolis is itself a motivating force helping many Mormons avoid the temptations all around them. At the same time, many church members interact with the popular image of Las Vegas, either by choice or necessity, as they visit a casino to view a movie or go bowling, work in the gaming industry, or drive along streets bordered by revealing billboards for strip clubs. This complex interaction leads to an ambivalent adaptation to the cultural context in which they live. Understanding the experience of Mormons in Las Vegas can be instructive as religious scholars consider other “faith islands” throughout the world.
Abstract T P286: Telephone Support Program Promotes Stroke Survivor Knowledge, Self-Care, and Satisfaction

Background and Issues: Stroke is the fourth leading cause of death, and the leading cause of disability. Aside from physically disablement, stroke survivors often experience difficulty coping with life post-discharge. Knowledge of stroke symptoms is often low, even in patients who have suffered stroke. Programs designed to provide support and education to stroke survivors can be effective at promoting stroke knowledge and improving patient satisfaction. Purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness of a telephone support program at promoting stroke knowledge, coping and self-care in stroke survivors. Methods: The Rush Stroke Buddy Program was developed in 2011 to provide support for patients with ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke after discharge from Rush University Medical Center. The telephone program consists of monthly calls to patients who voluntarily enlist in the program. Each phone call has two facilitators, a nursing student (“Buddy”) and a stroke survivor (“Ambassador”), who are undergo intensive training including lectures given by a rehab physician, a behavioral psychologist, a spiritual care worker, a social worker, and a nurse educator. Each phone call follows protocol: the Buddy is responsible for discussing aspects of stroke symptom education, personal medical risk factor reduction, and reviewing medications; the Ambassador provides emotional support for the stroke survivor. Results: Of 34 active participants since program inception, 17 (50%) agreed to be surveyed. 15 subjects (88%) felt the program empowered them to manage their health, addressed concerns, and helped them cope (94%). 13 subjects (76%) stated the program helped them overcome difficulties. All participants could name at least one stroke symptom; 14 subjects (82%) could name two or more. 13 subjects (76%) felt they better understood their medicines; 16 subjects (94%) felt they understood when to seek urgent medical attention. Sixteen subjects (94%) stated they would recommend the program to others. Conclusions: The Rush Stroke Buddy Program provides stroke survivor satisfaction, reinforces stroke symptom knowledge, and provides emotional support. Although further research is needed on stroke support, this program overall improves patient coping, self-care and education.
Unifying the Theory of Thickening, Filtration, and Centrifugation

Solid/liquid separation operations involve relative movement of solids and liquids in both slurries and porous compactible beds. Thickening, filtration, and centrifugation are governed by the simultaneous flow of liquid through and compaction of porous paniculate beds. In the relative motion, the liquid may have a higher velocity than the solids as in filtration or the reverse as in thickening and sedimentation. Movement of liquid is accompanied by a simultaneous collapse of the structure of the cakes and sediments under mechanical, centrifugal, gravitational, and fluid induced frictional stresses. A unified approach to solid-liquid separation with cake formation requires the solution of two simultaneous equations. The first rate equation (Darcy-Shirato) involves the gradient of the liquid pressure and the velocity of the liquid relative to the solid. The second stress balance equation contains the gradients of both the liquid pressure and the induced stress on the solid matrix. Neither of these equations can be solved independently. Elimination of the liquid pressure gradient between the equations leads to the particulate structure equation whose solution establishes the cake structure and leads to formula for calculating solid and liquid rates. If gravitational or centrifugal sedimentation precedes cake formation, a first order hyperbolic partial differential equation governs the suspension concentration and the flux of solids at the cake surface.
Dispersal limitations on fish community recovery following long-term water quality remediation

In-stream barriers may impose constraints on the ecological effectiveness of restoration strategies by limiting colonization. We assessed the importance of dispersal limitations to fish community recovery following long-term pollution abatement, water quality remediation, and species introductions within the White Oak Creek watershed near Oak Ridge, Tennessee (USA). Long-term (26 years) responses in fish species richness, biomass, and community composition to water quality remediation were evaluated in light of physical barriers (culverts and weirs). We found that barriers to dispersal were potentially limiting fish community recovery by preventing colonization by introduced species and seasonal migrants. Changes in richness were negatively related to barrier index, a measure of the degree of isolation by barriers. Following introductions, upstream passage for six fish species above non-passable barriers was not observed. Highly isolated sites were dominated by a few equilibrium species, whereas less isolated sites showed more variation in life history strategies with increasing periodic and opportunistic strategists. The importance of barriers on community dynamics decreased over time—an indication of increasing community stability, homogenization of fauna, and improved water quality. However, isolating the role of dispersal limitation was complicated by multiple interacting stressors, such as the compounding effects of barriers and pervasive water quality conditions.
Solving the single-country sample problem in cultural distance studies

Selecting appropriate samples in cultural distance research is vital to producing valid empirical results. Over 80% of empirical cultural distance studies use a sample comprised of either a single home country with varying host countries or a single host country with varying home countries. When difference scores are used in the calculation of cultural distance based on single-country samples the resulting cultural distance measures typically are highly correlated with one or more of the varying countries’ underlying national culture dimensions, making it impossible to determine whether findings are due to cultural distance or to varying countries’ national culture effects. This is referred to as a confounded variables problem and means that for an overwhelming number of cultural distance studies, we cannot with certainty have confidence in the verity of their findings. To resolve this uncertainty we propose that cultural distance scholars select samples comprised of at least two home/host countries. We empirically demonstrate that two-country samples where most of the national culture dimensions for the two countries differ create certitude with respect to results, eliminating the cultural distance confounded variables problem. We describe the single-country sample problem, illustrate the proposed a priori two-country solution, and suggest avenues for future research.
Illustrations of Fungi—XXII

Pileus convex, becoming plane, solitary, about 7 cm. broad; surface smooth, hygrophanous, fibrillose-striatulate, rosy-isabelline, margin entire, pallid; context pale-rosy-isabelline, very thin; lamellae deeply sinuate, rounded behind, very broad, subdistant, fulvous; spores ellipsoid, smooth, subfulvous, 9-Io X 6 ; stipe cylindric, rosy-isabelline, decorated with the remains of the fugacious veil, hollow, scarcely enlarged at the base, 5-7 cm. long, I-I.5 cm. thick. Type collected on the ground in deciduous woods east of the New York Botanical Garden, September Io, 1911, by W. A. Murrill. The pileus and stipe, as well as the context, are rosyisabelline, or about the color of the back of a man's hand. This color is mostly concealed on the pileus by the hygrophanous character of the surface, but it is evident on the margin.
LABORATORY STUDY OF WAVE TRANSFORMATION ON BARRED BEACH PROFILES

In previously reported laboratory experiments, the authors found that incident waves with the same characteristics in deep water break differently on barred and plane-sloping beaches. For example, waves of greater steepness that plunge on plane beaches tend to collapse on barred beaches, and plunge distance on barred profiles is about half that on a plane sloping beach for a given wave steepness. In the present study, wave height transformation, reflection, and runup of monochromatic and random waves are investigated for barred and plane beach profiles in a wave tank, with deep-water wave steepness varied from 0.0085 to 0.09. For monochromatic and random waves, wave-height to waterdepth ratios are higher for waves breaking on bars, whereas just seaward of breaking these ratios are lower than on a plane beach. For plane and barred beaches, the ratios unite in the inner surf zone, and the magnitude and shape of wave spectra are the same at fixed points outside and inside the surf zone, except just shoreward of the break point, where the spectrum on a barred profile has the same shape but contains less energy. Despite differences in breaker-related quantities on barred and plane beach profiles, runup, reflection, and wave height transformation in the surf zone on barred profiles are mainly controlled by the plane beach slope on which the bar or reef is located, with only minor influence by a bar, even for extremely-shaped obstacles such as reefs.
Drug-induced immune haemolytic anaemia caused by levofloxacin.

Drug-induced immune haemolytic anaemia (DIIHA) is extremely rare. We herein report a case of life-threatening DIIHA due to levofloxacin. This is the second case reported in the literature. A 51-year-old woman presented with complaints of fatigue after 4–5 days of levofloxacin therapy for a lung infection. At presentation, she was found to have haemolysis with a positive Coombs test and IgG autoantibodies. Levofloxacin was identified as the probable culprit, using the Naranjo adverse drug reaction probability scale. Upon discontinuation of the drug and initiation of steroids, the patient’s haematological parameters stabilised. Diagnosis of DIIHA is made through a history of intake of levofloxacin, clinical and laboratory features of haemolysis and a positive Coombs test. An autoantibody screen is most commonly positive for warm antibodies (IgG type). It is essential for clinicians to recognise this rare complication caused by a commonly prescribed medication, discontinue the offending drug and initiate treatment.
NADH oxidase activity of soybean plasma membranes inhibited by submicromolar concentrations of ATP.

The activity of an auxin-stimulated NADH oxidase activity from soybean hypocotyls was inhibited by submicromolar concentrations of ATP. Auxins are plant growth regulators that increase the rate of cell enlargement in plant stems. A synthetic auxin, 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), was used. The inhibition was half maximal at 1 nM ATP and was not observed with other nucleotides and nucleosides. The inhibition was the result of an increase in the Km for NADH from about 60 μM to > 100 μM and was noncompetitive. The decrease in Km due to ATP was enhanced by the addition of 1 μM 2,4-D. The Vmax of the plasma membrane NADH oxidase was approximately doubled (1.5-2.8-fold) by ATP and by 1 µM 2,4-D. No further increase in the Vmax was observed by the combination of 1 nM to 0.1 mM ATP in the presence of 1 μM 2,4-D. The results demonstrate a response of the NADH oxidase activity of isolated vesicles of soybean plasma membranes to ATP distinct from that observed previously with other nucleotide di- and triphosphates. The results are suggestive either of control of the cell surface NADH oxidase by phosphorylation or a direct response to ATP binding at nanomolar concentrations of ATP.
New Fabrication Method of Thick Film of Oxide Superconductor by the Combination of Mist Pyrolysis and Collision of Particles to Substrate

Thick film and compact of oxide superconductor were fabricated by the mist pyrolysis method consecutive the collision process of synthesized particles to substrate.
Increasing Retention and Graduation Rates Through a STEM Learning Community

The EXCEL Program began as a National Science Foundation-sponsored STEM Talent Expansion Program in 2006 and, because of its significant impact on retention of STEM majors, has since become an institutionalized program at the University of Central Florida. The University of Central Florida EXCEL Program annually recruits approximately 200 first-year STEM students into a learning community with residential/social and curricular components. First-year retention, long-term retention, and graduation rates are all higher for the EXCEL cohorts than the comparison groups. Overall retention of students in a STEM major is 43% higher for the EXCEL Program than the comparison group. In particular, women, African Americans, and Hispanics in the EXCEL Program have demonstrated high retention (54%, 57%, and 67%) and graduation rates (35%, 27%, and 50%). The large cohort size and all-inclusive nature of the EXCEL Program makes it a unique model for addressing the current need for STEM graduates.
Design and Characterization of a Signal Conditioning Microchip and Thin-Film Microelectrode Array for High Spatial Resolution Cardiac Mapping

A Thin-Film Microelectrode Array (TFMEA) capable of recording electrical activities of the heart with high spatial resolution, on the order of individual myocytes, was developed and characterized to study the mechanisms of arrhythmias. A customized multichannel signal conditioning microchip (SCM) consisting of a pre-amplification stage and band-pass filter was interfaced directly to the electrodes on the TFMEA to improve the signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs). The results suggest that the TFMEA-SCM system will greatly enhance the spatial resolution and improve signal quality for high resolution cardiac mapping.
Ultrafast Relaxation Dynamics of Photoexcited Zinc-Porphyrin: Electronic-Vibrational Coupling

Cyclic tetrapyrroles are the active core of compounds with crucial roles in living systems, such as hemoglobin and chlorophyll, and in technology as photocatalysts and light absorbers for solar energy conversion. Zinc-tetraphenylporphyrin (Zn-TPP) is a prototypical cyclic tetrapyrrole that has been intensely studied in past decades. Because of its importance for photochemical processes the optical properties are of particular interest, and, accordingly, numerous studies have focused on light absorption and excited-state dynamics of Zn-TPP. Relaxation after photoexcitation in the Soret band involves internal conversion that is preceded by an ultrafast process. This relaxation process has been observed by several groups. Hitherto, it has not been established if it involves a higher lying ”dark” state or vibrational relaxation in the excited S2 state. Here we combine high time resolution electronic and vibrational spectroscopy to show that this process constitutes vibrational relaxation in the anharmonic S2 ...
Antifouling Electrospun Nanofiber Mats Functionalized with Polymer Zwitterions

In this study, we exploit the excellent fouling resistance of polymer zwitterions and present electrospun nanofiber mats surface functionalized with poly(2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine) (polyMPC). This zwitterionic polymer coating maximizes the accessibility of the zwitterion to effectively limit biofouling on nanofiber membranes. Two facile, scalable methods yielded a coating on cellulose nanofibers: (i) a two-step sequential deposition featuring dopamine polymerization followed by the physioadsorption of polyMPC, and (ii) a one-step codeposition of polydopamine (PDA) with polyMPC. While the sequential and codeposited nanofiber mat assemblies have an equivalent average fiber diameter, hydrophilic contact angle, surface chemistry, and stability, the topography of nanofibers prepared by codeposition were smoother. Protein and microbial antifouling performance of the zwitterion modified nanofiber mats along with two controls, cellulose (unmodified) and PDA coated nanofiber mats were evaluated by d...
MAKING SENSE OF THE WAYS WE MAKE SENSE OF THE PAST: THE PERIODO PROJECT

The PeriodO project seeks to fill a gap in the landscape of digital antiquity through the creation of a Linked Data gazetteer of period definitions that transparently record the spatial and temporal boundaries assigned to a given period by an authoritative source. Our presentation of the PeriodO gazetteer is prefaced by a history of the role of periodization in the study of the past, and an analysis of the difficulties created by the use of periods for both digital data visualization and integration. This is followed by an overview of the PeriodO data model, a description of the platform's architecture, and a discussion of the future direction of the project
Technology Use in Behavioral Medicine Health

This chapter discusses the use of mobile applications (apps) with active duty military and veterans who are living with mental illnesses and trying to cope with the stresses of life during and after serving their country. We veterans, and active military, like our care quick, convenient, and discreet-like mobility in combat. Being able to stay connected and check in with one’s therapist through the use of HIPAA-compliant and real-time technology can only be a plus for the clinician who is trying to keep a client on track with their treatment goals. Providing clients with the means to self-monitor while still being able to participate in their care builds a sense of empowerment and confidence in their ability to become well and remain emotionally healthy (Using technology to improve access to mental health care, http://www.va.gov; 2014). Mobile mental health apps are becoming more and more abundant and available, and with the increase in the number of HIPAA-compliant apps being introduced, clinicians have an ethical obligation to consider the use of these apps to help their clients take control of their health (Behavioral health roundtable: Using information technology to integrate behavioral health and primary care: Summary report of findings, Washington, DC, The Center for the Advancement of Health Information Technology; 2012). A discussion of the pros and cons of using mobile apps is also important to ensuring clinicians, and clients alike are informed about the risks and benefits related to distance therapy. A review of the literature showed an increasing trend in using mobile apps in the Veterans Administration (VA), as well as in forward deployed combat zones, so that clients can have the continuity of care so vital to positive outcomes and sustained wellness habits.
Improving Understanding of the Workload-Wellbeing Relation among State Employees

Grounded in broaden and build, affective events, and conservation of resources theories, the present study uses a pre-survey, post- survey, and twice-daily reports in order to examine the relations...
Perpetuation of Whiteness Ideologies in U.S. College Student Discourse

AbstractUtilizing discourse from college students who participated in a three-day seminar on systemic racism, intersectionality, and white privilege, this study examines and critiques ideologies within college students’ discourse that are foundational to whiteness. Three ideological discourses emerged before, during, and after the seminar – Liberal Pluralism, Meritocracy, and “Reverse Racism.” The discourses were analysed using Critical Discourse Analysis and findings are presented from the study that include the implications of ideological discourses that perpetuate the pervasiveness of whiteness and white privilege. The paper concludes with implications for communication scholars and educators, most specifically those who teach intercultural communication.
A factored MDP approach to optimal mechanism design for resihent large-scale interdependent critical infrastructures

Enhancing the security and resilience of interdependent infrastructures is crucial. In this paper, we establish a theoretical framework based on Markov decision processes (MDPs) to design optimal resiliency mechanisms for interdependent infrastructures. We use MDPs to capture the dynamics of the failure of constituent components of an infrastructure and their cyber-physical dependencies. Factored MDPs and approximate linear programming are adopted for an exponentially growing dimension of both state and action spaces. Under our approximation scheme, the optimally distributed policy is equivalent to the centralized one. Finally, case studies in a large-scale interdependent system demonstrate the effectiveness of the control strategy to enhance the network resilience to cascading failures.
Enabling component databases with OLE DB

Publisher Summary Data-intensive applications bring a challenging collection of requirements to data management. Several database companies have pursued a traditional database-centric approach, that is, universal database. In this approach, the database vendor extends the database engine and programming interface to support new data types, including text, files, spatial, video, and audio. An alternative approach called universal data access (UDA) allows applications to efficiently access data from where they reside without replication, transformation, or conversion. UDA can be implemented as a complementary approach and can be used in combination with the universal database approach. Microsoft developed OLE DB and ActiveX Data Objects (ADO) in support of the UDA approach. OLE DB is a fairly detailed, system-level interface used by system developers to encapsulate component database functionality. OLE DB interfaces are the key enablers of UDA's component architecture. This chapter identifies some aspects of the architecture that contribute to OLE DB's inherent component nature. The base objects that comprise the abstractions for connecting and representing data show how these base abstractions have been extended to support particular types of data. Finally, the chapter explores some of the generic services that are built using OLE DB's component nature to augment the functionality of existing data providers.
Curable Ionic Liquid Prepolymer-Based Ion Gel Coating System for Toxic Industrial Chemical Hazard Mitigation on Porous Substrates

A peelable gel coating based on a curable ammonium-alcohol ionic liquid (IL) prepolymer has been developed for the decontamination of toxic industrial chemicals (TICs) from porous substrates. The physical properties of these coatings can be tuned by controlling the prepolymer molecular weight (prepared by RAFT polymerization) and by altering the formulation of the initial coating mixture. The initially applied (uncured) solutions can be applied onto porous wood and ceramic substrates with minimal soak-in, and these films cure quickly in situ under ambient conditions. These coatings were tested in a series of assays meant to demonstrate their effectiveness as TIC vapor barriers and materials that absorb liquid TICs from the aforementioned substrates. The coatings were found to suppress ∼80% of the vapor released by a TIC simulant (o-dichlorobenzene) from these substrates and to extract up to 85% of the mass of the originally applied simulant that soaked into these substrates.
Are the Isolated Family Therapists Surrounded by the Wolves of Individual Thinking? General Discussion

What are the integrative and nonintegrative aspects? What is lost and what is not lost in one approach versus another approach? I suspect that this will be probably one of the central areas of what we will be emphasizing in our ongoing discussions.
Benz[a]anthracene

This article is a revision of the previous edition article by Madhusudan G. Soni, volume 1, pp 250–251, © 2005, Elsevier Inc.
Amplification and overexpression of HER-2/neu are uncommon in advanced stage melanoma

The HER-2/neu proto-oncogene is a useful prognostic and predictive biomarker in breast cancer. In addition, use of a humanized monoclonal antibody against HER-2/neu has recently been shown to have efficacy in the treatment of metastatic breast cancer. In order to examine the potential of HER-2/neu as a biomarker and as a target for HER-2/neu monoclonal antibody treatment in melanoma, we examined the HER-2/neu status in 40 advanced stage melanomas. Using fluorescence in situ hybridization for determining the gene amplification status and immunohistochemistry for detecting protein overexpression, we found that only one out of 40 cases of melanoma had an altered HER-2/neu status. These results demonstrated that HER-2/neu amplification and overexpression are not common in advanced stage melanoma and thus, HER-2/neu would have limited value as a biomarker or as a target for immunotherapy in melanoma.
Molecular imaging of CXCR4 expression in orthotopic and metastatic models of breast cancer with [64Cu]AMD3100

281 Objectives Chemokine receptor (CXCR4) plays a critical role in the homing of cancer cells to distant sites by binding to its ligand CXCL12, which is highly expressed in commonly observed metastastic sites. Neoplastic breast tissue and metastases express elevated levels of CXCR4. Previous observations suggest that CXCR4 levels could be used as a predictive marker of metastatic potential. We demonstrate PET/CT imaging of CXCR4 expression in orthotopic xenografts and in an experimental lung metastasis model of breast cancer with [64Cu]AMD3100. Methods MDA-MB-231(CXCR4low) and DU4475(CXCR4high) breast cancer cells were used to generate orthotopic xenografts. Experimental lung metastasis model was generated by tail vein injection of MDA-MB-231 cells. Whole body PET/CT imaging and biodistribution studies with selected tissue harvesting were carried out at 90 min post injection of [64Cu]AMD3100 in both orthotopic and lung metastasis models. Minimum of three animals were used for all the studies. CXCR4 expression of orthotopic tumors and lung metastases-derived cells was analyzed by flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, and immunoblot analysis. Results Whole body imaging and biodistribution studies demonstrated selective accumulation of activity in DU4475 tumors compared to MDA-MB-231 tumors. The tumor-to-muscle ratios (Tu/Ms) were 26.24 ± 3.50 and 14.41 ± 0.73 for DU4475 and MDA-MB-231 tumors respectively. Accumulation of radioactivity was similarly observed in the lung metastasis model. The Tu/Ms ratios were 22.99 ± 2.50 and 14.32 ± 2.67 for lung metastases and control animals, respectively. Flow cytometry and immunoblot analysis demonstrated elevated CXCR4 expression in tumor and lung metastases-derived cells. Conclusions Our findings demonstrate the feasibility of imaging CXCR4 expression in breast tumor xenografts, and lung metastases. Research Support U24 CA92871, P50CA10317
Orchestrated management of heterogeneous sensors incorporating feedback from intelligence assets

We develop a method for autonomous management of multiple heterogeneous sensors mounted on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for multitarget tracking. The main contribution of the paper is incorporation of feedback received from intelligence assets (humans) on priorities assigned to specific targets. We formulate the problem as a partially observable Markov decision processes (POMDP) where information received from assets is captured as a penalty on the cost function. The resulting constrained optimization problem is solved using an augmented Lagrangian method. Information obtained from sensors and assets is fused centrally for guiding the UAVs to track these targets.
What Are the Hurdles to Full Vehicle Electrification? [Technology Leaders]

The future of passengervehicle propulsion is electric. This has been suggested and projected before, and today this is being pursued with greater enthusiasm than ever. No one has a functional crystal ball, but, based on many industry indicators, full electrification of the passengervehicle propulsion system is the future, and General Motors (GM) is committed to it. The only questions are when will this be done and what are the hurdles? These industry indicators include the unprecedented R&D expenditures on battery electric vehicles (BEVs), particularly on battery development, utilities? emphasis on grid compatibility with BEVs, and charging station proliferation. In addition, customer acceptance has been on the increase, and legislative urgency has been mounting globally.
Perioperative management of patients with cerebral palsy undergoing scoliosis surgery: Survey of surgeon practices.

Purpose Progressive scoliosis significantly impacts the quality of life in patients with cerebral palsy (CP). Spinal fusion is the mainstay of treatment of progressive spinal curves. The current study aims to identify approaches used by pediatric spine surgeons to optimize care of patients with CP undergoing scoliosis surgery. Methods A 33-question survey was distributed electronically to 181 POSNA/SRS members with an established interest in pediatric spinal deformity surgery. Eighty one responses were obtained (45%). Using the Delphi consensus guidelines, agreement > 75% was considered as consensus. Results There was a consensus on 15 out of 33 questions (46%). 97% of responders identified nutrition status as a comorbidity which could be optimized. However, the timing and method of obtaining nutritional assessment varied. 92% of the surgeons stated that they used shared decision making with the family but only 22% used a formal decision aid. 83% use antifibrinolytics routinely, 81% used a surgical site infection prevention protocol, 78% obtained preoperative pulmonary consult, and 88% took steps postoperatively to prevent pulmonary complications. Conclusion There is significant variability in the current practices of perioperative management of patients with CP undergoing scoliosis surgery. This data can be used in future studies to create a standardized integrated care pathway.
A Review of the Use of Telemedicine in Dermatologic Surgery

Background Telemedicine is an emerging field with numerous applications within medicine. Previous review articles describe its use within plastic surgery and otolaryngology but none, to the authors' knowledge, within dermatologic surgery. Objective To provide a review of the applications of telemedicine within dermatologic surgery. Materials and methods A PubMed search of articles published on teledermatology was conducted in July 2018. Articles were selected based on their relevance to dermatologic surgery and reviewed for their discussion of the applications of telemedicine in surgical and cosmetic dermatology. Results The initial search resulted in 156 articles. Eleven ultimately met inclusion criteria: 2 in referral and consultation, 5 in telepathology, 2 in intraoperative uses, and 2 in postprocedural care. Conclusion For preoperative consultation, teledermatology enables the surgeon to plan ahead and increases access to care by reducing the number of clinic visits. Telepathology has the potential to allow intraoperative consultation with a dermatopathologist to achieve accurate tumor clearance without delay. Smartglasses represent a promising technology for greater care coordination and a teaching tool. Postprocedural monitoring via text messaging provides convenient access to expert advice and early detection of postoperative complications. With increasing technologic advancements, telemedicine holds great potential to augment the dermatologic surgeon's daily practice.
Perioperative Outcomes of Lower Extremity Revascularization for Rest Pain and Tissue Loss

Background Critical limb ischemia (CLI) is the clinical manifestation of severe peripheral artery disease presenting as rest pain (RP) and tissue loss (TL). Most studies compare CLI as a homogenous group with claudication with limited database studies specifically studying these differences. We hypothesize that CLI should be stratified into RP and TL because of significant differences in disease severity, comorbidities, and outcomes. Methods The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database from 2012 to 2016 was reviewed. All patients with a postoperative diagnosis of CLI undergoing femoral to popliteal bypass (FPB) with vein or graft were identified. Patients were stratified into cohorts based on International Classification of Disease (ICD)-9 or ICD-10 codes for RP or TL (gangrene or ulcer). Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to examine 30-day mortality, morbidity, major amputation, and readmission adjusting for demographics, comorbidities, and procedural details. Results There were 5,304 patients. Compared to RP, patients with TL were older (P Conclusions Patients with RP and TL have drastic differences that impact perioperative mortality and readmissions. TL is an independent predictor of 30-day morbidity and major amputation. The stratification of CLI into RP and TL can provide insight into variations in outcomes and provide a means to quantify the risks associated with the 2 manifestations of the disease.
Pap Smear and HPV Testing

The Pap smear for cervical cancer screening was first introduced in the 1940s. Since then, the incidence of cervical cancer in the USA has decreased from 14/100,000 to 7.4/100,000 in 2018 (NIH National Cancer Institute. www.seer.cancer.gov). The addition of high-risk human papilloma virus DNA testing (HPV testing) has improved sensitivity for cervical cancer screening. The procedure for Pap smear and HPV testing is discussed, as well as screening recommendations and management guidelines.
Quantifying the impact from stroke during support with continuous flow ventricular assist devices: An STS INTERMACS analysis

Introduction Adverse events, especially strokes, during the implantation of continuous flow durable left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) remain the major barriers to greater application among patients with ambulatory advanced heart failure. Methods Between June 2014 and June 2017, a total of 9,489 patients in the Society of Thoracic Surgeons Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support database received 10,285 continuous flow LVADs, with follow-up through June 2018. Results During the follow-up period, 1,515 (16%) patients suffered 1 or more strokes, with a nearly equal frequency of ischemic and hemorrhagic etiology. The risk of stroke was about 4% in the first month, 9% during the first 6 months, and 14% in the first year. By multivariable hazard function analysis, the major risk factors identified in the early phase were LVAD centrifugal flow device and concomitant cardiac surgery, whereas in the constant phase (longer term), a history of repeated non-compliance was most associated with a stroke event. Using a modulated renewal model, the occurrence of an ischemic and especially a hemorrhagic stroke dominated as risk factors for subsequent mortality. Six-month survival after an ischemic stroke was 70%, and after a hemorrhagic stroke, it was Conclusions This study confirms the 20% incidence of stroke over the first 2 years with axial flow and hybrid (magnetic and hydrodynamic) levitated centrifugal flow pumps. This study suggests a major increase in 1- and 2-year mortality among those with an initial disabling vs non-disabling stroke. To better understand the impact of strokes after implantation and the effect of prevention and intervention strategies, we need more complete Modified Rankin Scores and quality of life data during the stroke recovery period.