cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A NEURAL NETWORK ARCHITECTURE THAT COMPUTES ITS OWN RELIABILITY

Abstract Artificial neural networks (ANNs) have been used to construct empirical nonlinear models of process data. Because network models are not based on physical theory and contain nonlinearities, their predictions are suspect when extrapolating beyond the range of the original training data. With multiple correlated inputs, it is difficult to recognize when the network is extrapolating. Furthermore, due to non-uniform distribution of the training examples and noise over the domain, the network may have local areas of poor fit even when not extrapolating. Standard measures of network performance give no indication of regions of locally poor fit or possible errors due to extrapolation. This paper introduces the “validity index network” (VI-net), an extension of radial basis function networks (RBFN), that calculates the reliability and the confidence of its output and indicates local regions of poor fit and extrapolation. Because RBFNs use a composition of local fits to the data, they are readily adapted to predict local fitting accuracy. The VI-net can also detect novel input patterns in classification problems, provided that the inputs to the classifier are real values. The reliability measures of the VI-net are implemented as additional output nodes of the underlying RBFN. Weights associated with the reliability nodes are given analytically based on training statistics from the fitting of the target function, and thus the reliability measures can be added to a standard RBFN with no additional training effort.
What Are College Students' Perceptions About Campus Safety?

Crime and violence on college and university campuses have found their way into the media spotlight. As a result, criminal and violent acts have become issues that warrant research. We discuss literature focused on the potential contributing factors that may lead to violent behavior. Additionally, we review legislation intended to protect students and employees by keeping them updated on criminal activity. We also address institutions’ responsibility to promote and ensure a safe learning environment. Last, we examine students’ responsibility to self-protect. According to the US Department of Justice (as cited in Flannery & Quinn-Leering, 2000), victimization by a violent crime is increasingly common and the chance of being victimized today by a violent crime is greater than the chance of being injured in a traffic accident. Therefore, one need not speculate on why institutions of higher education are experiencing widespread unlawful activity. Instead, colleges and universities should concentrate on preventing these acts of violence. To understand college students’ perceptions regarding campus safety, we surveyed 20 local college students, of whom 55% were female. Respondents ranged in age from 21 to 25. All classes (freshman through senior) were represented, with 85% of respondents enrolled as full-time students.
Can you read my mindprint?: Automatically identifying mental states from language text using deeper linguistic features

Humans routinely transmit and interpret subtle information about their mental states through the language they use, even when only the language text is available. This suggests humans can utilize the linguistic signature of a mental state (its mindprint), comprised of features in the text. Once the relevant features are identified, mindprints can be used to automatically identify mental states communicated via language. We focus on the mindprints of eight mental states resulting from intentions, attitudes, and emotions, and present a mindprint-based machine learning technique to automatically identify these mental states in realistic language data. By using linguistic features that leverage available semantic, syntactic, and valence information, our approach achieves near-human performance on average and even exceeds human performance on occasion. Given this, we believe mindprints could be very valuable for intelligent systems interacting linguistically with humans. Keywords: mental state; linguistic features; mindprint; natural language processing; information extraction
A Modified Spanish Sequence for Students With Language‐Based Learning Disabilities

: A two-semester modified Spanish sequence was designed to address the needs of college students with language-based learning disabilities. This course featured reduced scope, an emphasis on tactile activities, metacognitive strategies, and adaptations to the presentation and practice of material. Performances on fall and spring semester-end essays were examined to determine whether differences in written performance would be found between students in the modified (n=30) versus nonmodified sections (n=213). Results showed no statistically significant differences in either fall or spring written performance scores between the two groups. A significant decline in performance was found between the fall and spring semesters for the modified section. This article details the methodologies used to teach vocabulary, grammar, and writing to this population of students.
A comparison of annual transpiration and productivity in monoculture and mixed-species Douglas-fir and red alder stands

Although much is known about drivers of productivity in Douglas-fir and red alder stands, less is known about how productivity may relate to stand transpiration and water use efficiency. We took advantage of a 15-year-old experiment involving Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) and red alder (Alnus rubra) in the western Cascade Range of western Oregon to test the following hypotheses: (a) more productive stands transpire more water, (b) the relationship between productivity and transpiration differs between species, and (c) the relationship between productivity and transpiration differs between sites varying in soil moisture and fertility. Furthermore, the experimental design included alder, a facultative nitrogen-fixing species, which could also affect fertility. Fixed area plots (20 20 m) were planted as monocultures of each species or in mixtures at a common density (1100 trees ha 1 ) in a randomizedblock design. Transpiration of Douglas-fir and red alder was measured using heat dissipation sensors installed in eight trees per plot and scaled to the plot level based on sapwood basal area for each species. Although up to 53% of the variability in tree transpiration was explained by basal area, irrespective of species or site conditions, the two stands with the highest biomass and sapwood basal area did not transpire the most. Instead of more productive stands transpiring more water, the greatest variability in both productivity and transpiration was determined by site conditions and to a lesser degree, species composition. For example, 70% of the variation in tree biomass increment (TBI) was determined by leaf area index, which was much higher at the site with higher fertility and soil moisture (p < 0.05). Despite marked phenological and physiological differences, Douglas-fir and red alder performed similarly. Only 19% of annual water use of Douglas-fir occurred between October and March when alder was leafless. Also, there was no evidence of a fertilization effect of the nitrogen-fixing red alder on the Douglas-fir: the nitrogen concentration and N-isotopic ratio of Douglas-fir needles did not differ whether trees were grown in monoculture or in mixtures with red alder. We conclude that lower soil fertility and contrasting microclimate at one site relative to the other suppressed NPP while maintaining higher transpiration, thus reducing water use efficiency.
Charting Evolution’s Trajectory: Using Molluscan Eye Diversity to Understand Parallel and Convergent Evolution

For over 100 years, molluscan eyes have been used as an example of convergent evolution and, more recently, as a textbook example of stepwise evolution of a complex lens eye via natural selection. Yet, little is known about the underlying mechanisms that create the eye and generate different morphologies. Assessing molluscan eye diversity and understanding how this diversity came about will be important to developing meaningful interpretations of evolutionary processes. This paper provides an introduction to the myriad of eye types found in molluscs, focusing on some of the more unusual structures. We discuss how molluscan eyes can be applied to the study of evolution by examining patterns of convergent and parallel evolution and provide several examples, including the putative convergence of the camera-type eyes of cephalopods and vertebrates.
Differential amplification of rRNA genes by polymerase chain reaction.

Abstract The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is used widely to recover rRNA genes from naturally occurring communities for analysis of population constituents. We have found that this method can result in differential amplification of different rRNA genes. In particular, rDNAs of extremely thermophilic archaebacteria often cannot be amplified by the usual PCR methods. The addition of 5% (wt/vol) acetamide to a PCR mixture containing both archaebacterial and yeast DNA templates minimized nonspecific annealing of the primers and prevented preferential amplification of the yeast small-subunit rRNA genes.
Behavioral Factors in Interactive Training of Text Classifiers

This paper describes a user study where humans interactively train automatic text classifiers. We attempt to replicate previous results using multiple "average" Internet users instead of a few domain experts as annotators. We also analyze user annotation behaviors to find that certain labeling actions have an impact on classifier accuracy, drawing attention to the important role these behavioral factors play in interactive learning systems.
Experimental Evidence for the Development of Bimodal Grain Size Distributions by the Nucleation‐Limited Coarsening Mechanism

It has recently been hypothesized that transient bimodal grain size distributions can arise from unimodal distributions during coarsening if the continued growth of a majority fraction of the crystals is arrested by the energy barrier to nucleate new layers. To test this hypothesis experimentally, SrTiO3 has been coarsened in a titania-rich liquid at 15001C. Measurements of the grain size distribution as a function of time show a transient bimodal distribution that consists of a constant number of larger grains growing many times faster than a decreasing number of much smaller grains. The observations are consistent with the nucleation-limited coarsening theory, which provides a plausible explanation for the development of transient bimodal grain size distributions in systems of crystals bounded by singular surfaces.
EFFECTS OF A STRESSFUL PRESLEEP EXPERIENCE ON ELECTROENCEPHALOGRAPHRECORDED SLEEP

The effects on experimentally uninterrupted sleep of two films, one psychologically stressful and the other neutral, both seen just before bed, were studied in 12 male Ss on 2 nights according to a balanced design. EEG and electro-ocu-logram recordings were made of the first 6 hours of sleep. The stress film significantly increased the number of awakenings associated with rapid eye-movement periods (REMPs), but not that of non-REM sleep awakenings, as well as the proportion of REMPs terminated by spontaneous awakenings. It furthermore increased the frequency of REMs (REM density) during REMPs. These results suggest that the stress film produced a specific REM sleep disturbing effect via anxiety which carried over into the Ss’ sleep and dreams, and that it increased REM density secondary to drive enhancement.
Zen : tradition and transition

Aimed at both the newcomer and the experienced practitioner, this introduction to Zen surveys its history, philosophies and the various schools. It includes early Zen texts on meditation, classics of poetry and guidelines on how to meditate and how to recognize a qualified Zen teacher.
Cell viability improves following inhibition of cryopreservation-induced apoptosis.

A new concept in cryopreservation solution design was developed that focuses on the use of an intracellular-type, hypothermic maintenance medium coupled with additives that inhibit cryopreservation-induced apoptosis. Hypo-Thermosol® (HTS), a hypothermic (4° C) maintenance medium utilized in the long-term storage of cell, tissue, and organ systems, was tested for cryoprotective capability on a renal cell line (Madin-Darby Canine Kidney cells). HTS and HTS derivatives were tested against conventional cell culture medium (Dulbecco's Minimal Essential medium, DME) as the cryoprotectant carrier solution because (1) cells are exposed to an extended state of hypothermia during the freeze-thaw process, and (2) HTS is designed to protect cells exposed to a hypothermic state. Cells separately cryopreserved in either HTS or DME +5% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) yielded equivalent 24-h postthaw survival (∼30%) and 5-d recovery (∼90%). Cells cryopreserved in CryoStor® CS 5, a HTS derivative containing 5% DMSO, yielded ∼75% 24-h postthaw survival and recovery to 100% within 3 d. DNA gel electrophoresis was performed to determine the mechanisms of cell death contributing to cryopreservation failure. Cells preserved in DME (DMSO-free) died primarily through necrosis, whereas cells preserved in either DME +5% DMSO, HTS, or CryoStor® CS 5 died through a combination of apoptosis and necrosis. This observation led to the inclusion of an apoptotic inhibitor designed to improve cryopreservation outcome. MDCK cells cryopreserved in CryoStor® CS 5 supplemented with an apoptotic inhibitor (Caspase I Inhibitor V), hereafter termed CryoStor® CS 5N, resulted in a 24-h postthaw survival and recovery rate exceeding that of any other cryoprotective solution tested (85%). We conclude that: (1) the use HTS (a dextran-based, intracellular-type solution), without DMSO can yield postthaw viability equivalent to that of standard DMSO-based cryopreservation methods, (2) postthaw viability can be significantly increased through the use of an intracellular-type solution in conjunction with DMSO, (3) the use of HTS allows for cryopreservation to be accomplished with reduced levels of cryoprotectants, and (4) the regulation of apoptosis is essential for the improvement of cryopreservation outcome.
Engineering curriculum readiness: Implementing an analytical and communication skills building course for the technical disciplines

Many domestic and international students arrive at college lacking the skills needed for academic careers in engineering or engineering technology. To support academic progress and develop essential skills, TECH 101, Engineering Technology Fundamentals, was proposed, approved, and funded by the School of Engineering and Technology at a large urban public university. The course offered students the preparatory skill development needed to begin an engineering or engineering technology major. TECH 101 facilitated a completely different approach, utilizing a very rare collaboration. Course design and implementation were championed by an experienced engineering technology instructor and a uniquely qualified faculty member whose background includes both transition to college expertise as well as second language acquisition. Drawing the two diverse skill-sets together resulted in context-based activities closely integrated with hands-on technical work, as well as development of a technical vocabulary and English language skills. A small group of learners participated in the initial course offering in the fall of 2014. This Work In Progress paper will explore the unique technical and preparatory course components that promote the support of underprepared domestic and international students.
Porta Hepatis Mass

A 64-year-old man from the Philippines presented with 5 months of progressive fatigue, worsening jaundice, and a 13-kg weight loss. He denied fever, chills, and abdominal pain. Laboratory test results were significant for a total bilirubin level of 14.4mg/dL (to convert to micromoles per liter, multiply by 17.104), mildly elevated transaminases, and a white blood cell count of 13 300/mL (to convert to ×109/L, multiply by 0.001) with a normal differential. Computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen and pelvis (Figure, A) demonstrated a heterogeneously enhancing hepatic hilar mass with extensive intrahepatic biliary ductal dilatation. The hilar mass measured 4.4 × 4.3 × 3.5 cm; the gallbladder was calcified. ACT scan of the chest demonstrated a 7-mm left upper lobe partially calcified nodule and cardio-phrenic and gastroesophageal lymphadenopathy. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopan-creatography demonstrated focal biliary strictures involving the right and left hepatic ducts. Cytological examination of bile duct brushings showed reactive ductal epithelial cells but no malignancy. Endoscopic ultrasonography with fine-needle aspirates revealed inflammatory cells with granulomatous changes. Serum carcinoembryonic antigen and cancer antigen 19-9 levels were 1.9 ng/mL (to convert to micrograms per liter, multiply by 1) and 293 U/mL, respectively. QuantiFERON (interferon-γ release assay; Qiagen), serum cryptococcal antigen, and serum Histoplasma capsulatum antigen results were all negative. Aerobic, anaerobic, mycobacterial, and fungal cultures from the CT-guided liver biopsy were negative. Laparoscopic biopsy (Figure, B) of several hepatic lesions demonstrated necrotizing granulomatous inflammation with giant cells and central necrosis. Grocott methenamine silver and acid-fast bacilli staining were negative for fungal or mycobacterial organisms, respectively. Figure A, Computed tomography of the abdomen demonstrates a 4.4 × 4.3 × 3.5-cm heterogeneous mass in the hepatic hilum (white arrowhead). There is a hepatic stent extending from the right hepatic duct into the second portion of the duodenum. ...
Role of injecting bone marrow aspiration injection in treating delayed union and non-union.

OBJECTIVE To access the role of bone marrow injection in the management of delayed union and non-union. METHODS The prospective study was conducted at the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Mayo Hospital, Lahore, from January 2012 to December 2013, and comprised patients who had long bone fractures that resulted in delayed or non-union and were treated with bone marrow injections. Aspiration of bone marrow was done from tibial tuberosity and was injected percutaneously at the fracture site. The whole procedure was carried out as a day case. Fracture site mobility, tenderness and radiological features were assessed using the Union Scale score. RESULTS Of the 25 patients, 18(72%)were male and 7(28%) were female with an overall mean age of 38±12.96SD years (range: 17-61 years). There were 19(76%) tibial shaft fractures, 4(16%) had shaft of femur fracture, and 2(8%) had humeral shaft fracture. Mean time duration between the injury and the procedure was 34 ±3.46 SD weeks (range: 30-42 weeks). Overall, 23 (92%) patients showed union and the mean time of healing was 15 ±2.73SD weeks (range: 12-22 weeks) after the procedure. CONCLUSIONS Percutaneous bone marrow injection provided an alternative to open bone grafting, having least complications, especially for early intervention in the fracture-healing process.
Minimum Required Sensing Range for UAS Sense and Avoid Systems

Development of effective sense and avoid systems is a critical challenge for operation of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in the National Airspace. A key issue is achieving detection of potential targets at sufficient range to achieve a low probability of collision with lightweight, low cost sensors suitable for UAS. We present a closed form analytical approach to designing the minimum required sensing range based on worst-case collision encounter geometries. Using a minimum safe distance of 500 ft and known velocities for several different aircraft, this minimum required sensing range is found to be approximately 1.861 km using slack parameter of δr = 0.0354. We demonstrate that this is a feasible result by describing a radar sensor prototype that achieves the required minimum sensing range.
GENOMIC COADAPTATION AND DEVELOPMENTAL STABILITY WITHIN INTROGRESSED POPULATIONS OF ENNEACANTHUS GLORIOSUS AND E. OBESUS (PISCES, CENTRARCHIDAE).

Using fluctuating bilateral asymmetry as a measure of developmental stability, we tested the hypothesis that genomic coadaptation mediates developmental stability in natural populations. Hybrid populations were more asymmetrical than populations of the parental species, and ranks of overall developmental instability were positively correlated with ranks of mean heterozygosity in these populations. The failure to find increased asymmetry in previous studies of natural hybrid populations (Jackson, 1973a, 1973b; Felley, 1980) suggests that such populations may have re-evolved coadapted genomes. Increased asymmetry in hybrid Enneacanthus populations may reflect the youthfulness of these populations.
Simulating Banks Grass Mite (Acari: Tetranychidae) Population Dynamics as a Subsystem of a Crop Canopy-Microenvironment Model

The population dynamics of the Banks grass mite, Oligonychus pratensis (Banks), were described, using a distribution delay model (MitMod). MitMod was linked to a comprehensive plant-microenvironment model (Cupid). Leaf temperatures throughout the canopy are calculated by Cupid and are used by MitMod in the calculation of spider mite developmental rates and fecundity. In turn, spider mite densities alter parameters in Cupid and therefore exert an influence on plant-microenvironmental variables, Simulated crop water stress, manifested by stomatal closure, caused rapid Banks grass mite population growth, primarily through enhanced canopy and soil surface temperatures. Conversely, irrigation was found to suppress Banks grass mite densities primarily through reducing canopy and soil surface temperatures. Results of simulations suggest that, in semi-arid, hot regions, spacial and temporal variation in canopy microenvironments can play an important role in determining where and when spider mite outbreaks will occur.
Quantification of sampling uncertainty for molecular dynamics simulation

We analyze two standard methods to compute the diffusion coefficient of a tracer particle in a medium from molecular dynamics (MD) simulation, the velocity autocorrelation function (VACF) method, and the mean-squared displacement (MSD) method. We show that they are equivalent in the sense that they provide the same mean values with the same level of statistical errors. We obtain analytic expressions for the level of the statistical errors present in the time-dependent diffusion coefficient as well as the VACF and the MSD. Under the assumption that the velocity of the tracer particle is a Gaussian process, all results are expressed in terms of the VACF. Hence, the standard errors of all relevant quantities are computable once the VACF is obtained from MD simulation. By using analytic models described by the Langevin equations driven by Gaussian white noise and Poissonian white shot noise, we verify our theoretical error estimates and discuss the non-Gaussianity effect in the error estimates when the Gaussian process approximation does not hold exactly. For validation, we perform MD simulations for the self-diffusion of a Lennard-Jones fluid and the diffusion of a large and massive colloid particle suspended in the fluid. Our theoretical framework is also applicable to mesoscopic simulations, e.g., Langevin dynamics and dissipative particle dynamics.
Overview of multienzyme systems in biosynthetic pathways

203 addition to glutamine [ l ] . This leads to the proposal Introduction In this article I examine biosynthetic pathways in which the amide of a glutamine serves as a source of nitrogen. Figure 1 summarizes the role of glutamine as a nitrogen donor for the biosynthesis of amino acids, purine and pyrimidine nucleotides, coenzymes and amino sugars. There are 16 glutamine amidotransferases that function to provide nitrogen in the pathways outlined in Figure 1 [ 13. The focus here is on structure-function relationships and mechanisms that are involved in co-ordinating steps in some of these pathways.
Application and Competition of Neutral Theory

Hubbell's neutral theory effectively solved the ecological interpretation problems of species diversity.By checking the documents,consulting experts and doing model testing,the author introduced the neutral theory of community,cited and discussed the existing problems and elaborated the questions which the academic community had.The paper aimed at providing some references to ecologists and statisticians.
Investigation on hearing losses of the stewards working in railway air-conditioned power generator car

Objective To analyze the characteristics of the noise in the railway air-conditioned power generator car and the heraring losses of the stewards in Kunming railway bureau.Methods The noise of the car was measured by noise analyzer and the hearing losses of the stewards were examined by pure-tone audiometer.Results The noise of the cars exceeded the hygiene limit.Hearing losses in the males(53.69%)were higher than those of the females(17.39%).Hearing losses in the males had no differences on age and the noise exposed length,and the rate of double ear hearing loss was higher than that of a single ear.The grade of hearing loss had no relation with age,but had statistical significance with working age.The grade had no statistical significance among Ⅰ,Ⅱ,Ⅲ or between Ⅳ and Ⅴ.Conclusion At the noise circumstance in railway air-conditioned power generator car,hearing losses of the male stewards were serious and could happen to all age and working age.It is necessary to take some measures to protect the hearing of the male stewards.
Construction of industrial Chinese rice wine yeast haploid strain with high urea importing level

Ethyl carbamate( EC) is a carcinogen by-product in Chinese rice wine brewing. Urea is known as the main precursor of EC in Chinese rice wine. The industrial Chinese rice wine yeast engineering strain Na-uD with highly expressed DUR3 responsible for urea import was constructed,to eliminate EC in Chinese rice wine. The DUR3 gene expression cassette "URA3-PGK1p-DUR3-PGK1t-URA3"with strong promoter PGK1p was constructed using fusion PCR,and then electro-transformed into the haploid yeast strain Na( MATa). After lab-scale brewing of Chinese rice wine with Na-uD,the content of urea and EC showed a significant reduction to 55. 0% and 10. 9%,respectively. There was no difference in physical and chemical indexes between the engineered strain and parental strain N85. The study indicated that overexpression of DUR3 without foreign genes introduction was an effective way to reduce the urea content and further the EC concentration in the fermented alcohol beverages.
Gross and microscopic findings in the human esophagus after esophageal variceal band ligation: a postmortem analysis.

Endoscopic sclerotherapy has been the therapy of choice for controlling acute variceal hemorrhage. Recently, endoscopic band ligation has been utilized for the management of esophageal varices with fewer complications and greater efficacy. We report the pathologic findings in the human esophagus 5 days after esopghageal variceal band ligation
Bilateral Breast Cancer Revealed by Biopsy of the Opposite Breast

The bilaterality of breast cancer is becoming increasingly evident and is generally recognized (Urban 1967, 1969). Not infrequently, one encounters simultaneous clinically apparent bilateral breast cancers. More often, these lesions appear to arise asynchronously. Foote and Stewart (1945) stated: “the most frequent antecedent of cancer in one breast is the history of having had cancer in the opposite breast.” There is mounting evidence that bilateral breast cancer, simultaneous or otherwise, occurs most often in certain patients: in those with a strong family history of breast cancer, particularly patients whose mothers have had bilateral breast cancer before the age of 50; in those with multiple breast cancers in the dominant breast, in patients with in situ lobular carcinoma; and in younger women successfully treated for early localized cancer who have a good prognosis for long survival.
Monocarboxylate Transporters: Therapeutic Targets and Prognostic Factors in Disease.

Solute carrier (SLC) transporters represent 52 families of membrane transport proteins that function in endogenous compound homeostasis and xenobiotic disposition, and have been exploited in drug delivery and therapeutic targeting strategies. In particular, the SLC16 family that encodes for the 14 isoforms of the monocarboxylate transporter (MCT) family plays a significant role in the absorption, tissue distribution, and clearance of both endogenous and exogenous compounds. MCTs are required for the transport of essential cell nutrients and for cellular metabolic and pH regulation. Recent publications have indicated their novel roles in disease, and thus their potential as biomarkers and new therapeutic targets in disease are under investigation. More research into MCT isoform function, specificity, expression, and regulation will allow researchers to exploit the potential utility of MCTs in the clinic as therapeutic targets and prognostic factors of disease.
Strong Acoustic Phonon Localization in Copolymer-Wrapped Carbon Nanotubes.

Understanding and controlling exciton–phonon interactions in carbon nanotubes has important implications for producing efficient nanophotonic devices. Here we show that laser vaporization-grown carbon nanotubes display ultranarrow luminescence line widths (120 μeV) and well-resolved acoustic phonon sidebands at low temperatures when dispersed with a polyfluorene copolymer. Remarkably, we do not observe a correlation of the zero-phonon line width with 13C atomic concentration, as would be expected for pure dephasing of excitons with acoustic phonons. We demonstrate that the ultranarrow and phonon sideband-resolved emission spectra can be fully described by a model assuming extrinsic acoustic phonon localization at the nanoscale, which holds down to 6-fold narrower spectral line width compared to previous work. Interestingly, both exciton and acoustic phonon wave functions are strongly spatially localized within 5 nm, possibly mediated by the copolymer backbone, opening future opportunities to engineer deph...
Does Foreign Aid Harm Political Rights? Evidence from U.S. Aid

The United States is the world's largest bilateral foreign aid donor. For many developing countries, this aid constitutes a nontrivial share of state revenue with the capacity to shape a recipient's governance. Whether such assistance has a causal effect on political liberalization, however, is plagued by concerns with endogeneity bias. To mitigate this concern, I exploit plausibly exogenous variation in the legislative fragmentation of the U.S. House of Representatives to construct a powerful instrumental variable for U.S. bilateral aid disbursements. For a sample of 150 countries from 1972 to 2008, U.S. aid harms political rights, fosters other forms of state repression (measured along multiple dimensions), and strengthens authoritarian governance. U.S. aid does so by weakening government accountability via the taxation channel. These findings counter the publicly stated objectives of the U.S. government to foster political liberalization abroad via bilateral economic assistance.
Sequelae of Posthemorrhagic Hydrocephalus

The neurologic and developmental outcome of 33 low birth weight neonates with ventriculomegaly and in 39 with no ventriculomegaly after hemorrhage were evaluated prospectively in the Departments of Pediatrics and Neurosurgery, Wayne State University School of Medicine and Children’s Hospital of Michigan, Detroit.
Bird Brain: Evolution

This article presents the classic and modern views of avian brain evolution in the context of vertebrate brain evolution. The classical view held that the avian cerebrum along with those of other vertebrates evolved in progressive dorsal-to-ventral stages from so-called primitive to advanced species. The modern view holds that the avian cerebrum and those of other vertebrates were inherited as a package consisting of pallial, striatal, and pallidal domains that together function in perceiving and producing complex behaviors. This modern view is associated with a new brain terminology for birds developed by a consortium of neuroscientists.
Myeloablative Second Transplants Are Associated with High Non-Relapse Mortality and Poorer Survival Than Non-Myeloablative Second Transplants.

Abstract 3323 Poster Board III-211 Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (SCT) for patients who have previously undergone allogeneic or autologous SCT is potentially curative, but dangerous. In order to identify patient, disease and treatment characteristics associated with outcome, we analyzed prognostic factors in 101 consecutive patients who underwent second transplants using allogeneic donors at the Cleveland Clinic between May 1987 and October 2008. Inclusion criteria included age ≥ 18, first SCT either autologous or allogeneic, and second SCT allogeneic. The second transplant was myeloablative (MA) in 65.3% of patients and non-myeloablative (NMA) in 34.7%. Relative to NMA second transplants, patients who underwent MA second transplants were younger (median 34 vs. 45 years, P 3 months after first transplant. 16 of these 17 patients underwent MA second transplant. Among all 17 patients transplanted within 3 months of first transplant, 1 year mortality was 91.4% and median survival was 2.3 months. Death was almost exclusively due to non-relapse causes. In multivariable analysis, we found that relative to undergoing second transplant more than 3 months after first transplant, transplant within 3 months of first transplant carried a higher rate of death and NRM (HR 2.97, P=0.001 and HR 4.58, P Kaplan-Meier estimates of overall survival for patients after MA allogeneic second transplant (thick line) or NMA allogeneic second transplant (thin line). We conclude that MA transplantation within 3 months of prior SCT carries an unacceptably high rate of NRM and should not be performed. Despite a lower incidence of relapse, MA second transplants were associated with substantially more NRM and significantly worse survival than NMA second transplants. Disclosures No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
NIRSA Members’ Perceptions of Organizational Effectiveness

This study assessed National Intramural-Recreational Sports Association (NIRSA) members’ perceptions of effectiveness in a sport association. Specifically, this study investigated the extent to which professional members of the NIRSA perceive it to be effective in achieving its stated and operative goals. A stratified systematic sample of professional NIRSA members (N = 600) was selected to complete the survey. The survey was sent to NIRSA members who had 1 through 4 years of membership, 5 through 9 years of membership, and 10 or more years of membership in the association. Multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) was used to compare perceptions of organizational effectiveness among the membership groups. No significant differences were found between the three membership groups and satisfaction. Correlations and multiple regression analyses were conducted to determine the relationships between stated and operative goal effectiveness and satisfaction. Significant relationships were confirmed between satisfaction and several stated and operative goal factors.
Molecular snapshots of APE1 proofreading mismatches and removing DNA damage.

Human apurinic/apyrimidinic (AP) endonuclease 1 (APE1) is an essential DNA repair enzyme which uses a single active site to process DNA damage via two distinct activities: (1) AP-endonuclease and (2) 3′ to 5′ exonuclease. The AP-endonuclease activity cleaves at AP-sites, while the exonuclease activity excises bulkier 3′ mismatches and DNA damage to generate clean DNA ends suitable for downstream repair. Molecular details of the exonuclease reaction and how one active site can accommodate various toxic DNA repair intermediates remains elusive despite being biologically important. Here, we report multiple high-resolution APE1–DNA structural snapshots revealing how APE1 removes 3′ mismatches and DNA damage by placing the 3′ group within the intra-helical DNA cavity via a non-base flipping mechanism. This process is facilitated by a DNA nick, instability of a mismatched/damaged base, and bending of the DNA. These results illustrate how APE1 cleanses DNA dirty-ends to generate suitable substrates for downstream repair enzymes. The essential DNA repair enzyme apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease 1 (APE1) has both endonuclease and exonuclease activities. Here, the authors present DNA bound human APE1 crystal structures which give insights into its exonuclease mechanism.
A Khandani Perspective: Room for a (Long) View

Abstract: A half century personal overview of my study of Hindustani musicians generally, and my teacher specifically provides the context and explanation for what I aver as the distinctive features of Hindustani music. First, the music practice did not require colonial reconfigurations from the perspective of its hereditary khandani practitioners. Second, for ethnomusicologists, the relationship between the researcher-disciple and consultant-master teacher was uniquely personal and loyal. Accordingly, despite exponentially expanding our understanding of its music practices in the last 50 years, ethnomusicological research in India remains remarkably free of generational friction, other than the necessary traction to learn more.
Use of the d-dimer for Detecting Pulmonary Embolism in the Emergency Department.

Abstract Background Assessment for pulmonary embolism (PE) in the emergency department (ED) remains complex, involving clinical decision tools, blood tests, and imaging. Objective Our objective was to examine the test characteristics of the high-sensitivity d -dimer for the diagnosis of PE at our institution and evaluate use of the d -dimer and factors associated with a falsely elevated d -dimer. Methods We retrospectively collected data on adult patients evaluated with a d -dimer and computed tomography (CT) pulmonary angiogram or ventilation perfusion scan at two EDs between June 4, 2012 and March 30, 2016. We collected symptoms (dyspnea, unilateral leg swelling, hemoptysis), vital signs, and medical and social history (cancer, recent surgery, medications, history of deep vein thrombosis or PE, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, smoking). We calculated test characteristics, including sensitivity, specificity, and likelihood ratios for the assay using conventional threshold and with age adjustment, and performed a univariate analysis. Results We found 3523 unique visits with d -dimer and imaging, detecting 198 PE. Imaging was pursued on 1270 patients with negative d -dimers, revealing 9 false negatives, and d -dimer was sent on 596 patients for whom negative Pulmonary Embolism Rule-Out Criteria (PERC) were documented with 2% subsequent radiographic detection of PE. The d -dimer showed a sensitivity of 95.7% (95% confidence interval [CI] 91–98%), specificity of 40.0% (95% CI 38–42%), negative likelihood ratio of 0.11 (95% CI 0.06–0.21), and positive likelihood ratio of 1.59 (95% CI 1.53–1.66) for the radiographic detection of PE. With age adjustment, 347 of the 2253 CT scans that were pursued in patients older than 50 years with an elevated d -dimer could have been avoided without missing any additional PE. Many risk factors, such as age, history of PE, recent surgery, shortness of breath, tachycardia and hypoxia, elevated the d -dimer, regardless of the presence of PE. Conclusions Many patients with negative d -dimer and PERC still received imaging. Our data support the use of age adjustment, and perhaps adjustment for other factors seen in patients evaluated for PE.
Incarcerated rectal prolapse-rupture and ileal evisceration after failed reduction. Report of a case

We report a case of incarcerated rectal prolapse that could not be reduced after using the previously described application of ordinary table sugar. Gentle pressure caused the prolapsed rectum to perforate, and the small bowel herniated through the tear. This is only the second case reported in the literature of an ileal herniation through a perforated rectum after an attempted reduction of an incarcerated prolapse. It is the only reported case occurring after sugar application and the 42nd case of ileal herniation through the rectum from all causes.
Chin up and Chin down Head Positions

This section of the symposium on abnormal head position reviews the ocular causes of the chin up and chin down head positions. The conditions discussed are Double Elevator Palsy, Thyroid Myopathy, ...
Oxygen Incorporation During Fabrication of Substrate CdTe Photovoltaic Devices: Preprint

Recently, CdTe photovoltaic (PV) devices fabricated in the nonstandard substrate configuration have attracted increasing interest because of their potential compatibility with flexible substrates such as metal foils and polymer films. This compatibility could lead to the suitability of CdTe for roll-to-roll processing and building-integrated PV. Currently, however, the efficiencies of substrate CdTe devices reported in the literature are significantly lower ({approx}6%-8%) than those of high-performance superstrate devices ({approx}17%) because of significantly lower open-circuit voltage (Voc) and fill factor (FF). In our recent device development efforts, we have found that processing parameters required to fabricate high-efficiency substrate CdTe PV devices differ from those necessary for traditional superstrate CdTe devices. Here, we investigate how oxygen incorporation in the CdTe deposition, CdCl2 heat treatment, CdS deposition, and post-deposition heat treatment affect device characteristics through their effects on the junction. By adjusting whether oxygen is incorporated during these processing steps, we have achieved Voc values greater than 860 mV and efficiencies greater than 10%.
Characterization of Chinese hamster cell lines that are X-ray sensitive, impaired in DNA double-strand break repair and defective for V(D)J recombination

DNA double-strand breaks (DSB) can fornn spontaneously or be induced experimentally via ionizing radiation (IR). DSB are extremely toxic and all living organisms have developed repair mechanisms to cope with these potentially lethal lesions (Friedberg et al. 1995). In mammals, DNA DSB can also be introduced during the site-specific V(D)J recombination process, which is necessary for the assembly of immunoglobulin and T-cell receptor genes in B- and T-cells, respectively. Elegant analyses of V(D)J recombination products in vivo and in vitro strongly suggest that enzymatically induced DNA DSB are essential intermediates in the V(D)J reaction process (Roth et al. 1992a,b; Schussel et al. 1993; van Gent et al. 1995). Thus, some aspects of DNA DSB repair and mammalian V(D)J recombination may be related; the mechanism(s) underlying these two processes is, however, still unknown.
Case Study: Impacts of Advanced Technology on a Small City Bus System

SLO Transit was chosen by Caltrans to demonstrate low-cost Advanced Public Transportation System (APTS) technologies designed specifically for small transit systems. Mobile data terminals with GPS locators were installed on all vehicles, with real-time bus location and emergency alarm data transmitted via radio modems using previously existing voice radios. Besides providing useful data for system planning, the real-time bus location data are used to advise drivers regarding schedule adherence and to generate messages regarding impending bus arrivals employing Smart Transit Signs at principal bus stops throughout town.
Shear-dependent changes in the three-dimensional structure of human von Willebrand factor

The three-dimensional tertiary structure of human von Willebrand Factor (vWF) on a hydrophobic surface under aqueous conditions and different shear stress regimes was studied by atomic force microscopy (AFM). vWF was imaged by AFM at molecular level resolution under negligible shear stress, under a local applied shear force (7.4 to 19 nN) using the AFM probe in contact mode scanning, and after subjecting vWF to a range of shear stress (0 to 42.4 dyn/cm2) using a rotating disk system. The results demonstrate that vWF undergoes a shear stress-induced conformational transition from a globular state to an extended chain conformation with exposure of intra-molecular globular domains at a critical shear stress of 35 +/- 3.5 dyn/cm2. The globular vWF conformation (149 nm by 77 nm and height 3.8 nm) is representative of native vWF after simple diffusion to the hydrophobic surface, followed by adhesion and some spreading. In a shear stress field above the critical value, protein unfolding occurs and vWF is observed in extended chain conformations oriented in the direction of the shear stress field with molecular lengths ranging from 146 to 774 nm and 3.4 nm mean height. The shear stress-induced structural changes to vWF suggest a close conformation-function relationship in vWF properties for thrombogenesis in regions of high shear stress.
A numerical study of applying spectral-step subgradient method for solving nonsmooth unconstrained optimization problems

Abstract The purpose of this work is two-fold. First, we present the spectral-step subgradient method to solve nonsmooth unconstrained optimization problems. It combines the classical subgradient approach and a nonmonotone linesearch with the spectral step length, which does not require any previous knowledge of the optimal value. We focus on the interesting case in which the objective function is convex and continuously differentiable almost everywhere, and it is often non-differentiable at minimizers. Secondly, we use performance profiles to compare the spectral-step subgradient method with other subgradient methods. This comparison will allow us to place the spectral-step subgradient algorithm among other subgradient algorithms.
Combined Use of Diffusion Tractography and Advanced Intraoperative Imaging for Resection of Cervical Intramedullary Spinal Cord Neoplasms: A Case Series and Technical Note.

Background Intramedullary spinal cord neoplasms (ISCN) pose significant management challenges. Advances in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (such as diffusion tensor imaging, DTI) have been utilized to determine the infiltrative nature and resectability of ISCN. However, this has not been applied to intraoperative decision making. Objective To present a case series of 2 patients with ISCN, the first to combine use of DTI, pre- and intraoperative 3-dimensional (3D) virtual reality imaging, and microscope integrated navigation with heads-up display. Methods Two patients who underwent surgery for ISCN were included. DTI images were obtained and 3D images were created using Surgical Theater (Surgical Theater SRP, Version 7.4.0, Cleveland, Ohio). Fiducials were used to achieve accurate surface registration to C4. Navigation confirmed the levels of laminectomy necessary. The microscope was integrated with Brainlab (Brainlab AG Version 3.0.5, Feldkirchen, Germany) and the tumor projected in the heads-up display. Surgical Theater was integrated with Brainlab to allow for real time evaluation of the 3D tractography. Results Case 1: All tracts were pushed away from the tumor, suggesting it was not infiltrative. Surgical Theater and Brainlab assisted in confirming midline despite the abnormal swelling of the cord so the myelotomy could be performed. The heads-up display outline demonstrated excellent correlation to the tumor. Gross total resection was achieved. Diagnosis of ependymoma was confirmed. Case 2: Some tracts were going through the tumor itself, suggesting an infiltrative process. Surgical Theater and Brainlab again allowed for confirmation of the midline raphe. Near total resection of the enhancing portion was achieved. Diagnosis of glioblastoma was confirmed. Conclusion This is a proof of concept application where multi-modal imaging technology was utilized for safest maximal ISCN resection.