cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Combinatorial Fusion Analysis for Meta Search Information Retrieval

Leading commercial search engines are built as single event systems. In response to a particular search query, the search engine returns a single list of ranked search results. To find more relevant results the user must frequently try several other search engines. A meta search engine was developed to enhance the process of multi-engine querying. The meta search engine queries several engines at the same time and fuses individual engine results into a single search results list. The fusion of multiple search results has been shown (mostly experimentally) to be highly effective. However, the question of why and how the fusion should be done still remains largely unanswered. In this chapter, we utilize the combinatorial fusion analysis proposed by Hsu et al. to analyze combination and fusion of multiple sources of information. A rank/score function is used in the design and analysis of our framework. The framework provides a better understanding of the fusion phenomenon in information retrieval. For example, to improve the performance of the combined multiple scoring systems, it is necessary that each of the individual scoring systems has relatively high performance and the individual scoring systems are diverse. Additionally, we illustrate various applications of the framework using two examples from the information retrieval domain.
The Consequences of Personal Networks for Internet Use in Rural Areas

Why are there fewer Internet users in rural areas than in urban areas? Researchers addressing this question typically focus on the lack of Internet infrastructure and demographic factors in rural areas. Rural areas often lack affordable Internet connectivity and contain relatively high numbers of people who are unlikely to adopt Internet connections at home—specifically the elderly and those without a postsecondary education. Although infrastructure and demographics are undoubtedly important factors, equalizing Internet adoption in rural and urban areas may require more than simply providing infrastructure that is affordable to a population of the right demographic composition. Drawing on the personal network approach and the concept of direct network externality, the author argues that the composition of personal networks in rural areas may hamper general levels of Internet adoption and high-speed Internet connection at home. To examine the empirical validity of this argument, the author conducted descriptive and multivariate analyses on data collected from a random-digit dial survey of 2,200 American adults.
Gaussian pulse Generators for subbanded ultra-wideband transmitters

This paper presents calculations for approximating the measured spectrum of pulsed signals in the high and low pulse-repetition-frequency (PRF) region. Experimentally verified peak and average power calculations are presented for pulse trains with no modulation and when modulated by random data using binary phase-shift keying (BPSK). A pulse generator is presented that is built using commercially available discrete components. BPSK pulses are generated at a PRF of 50 MHz. The output spectrum has a center frequency of 5.355 GHz and a -10-dB bandwidth of 550 MHz. A technique for pulse shaping is presented that approximates a Gaussian pulse by exploiting the exponential behavior of a bipolar junction transistor. This technique is demonstrated by a pulse generator fabricated in a 0.18-/spl mu/m SiGe BiCMOS process. BPSK pulses are generated by inverting a local oscillator signal as opposed to the reference pulse, improving matching. Pulses are transmitted at a PRF of 100 MHz and centered in 528-MHz-wide channels equally spaced within the 3.1-10.6-GHz ultra-wideband band. Measurement results for both transmitters match well with calculated values.
Tall fescue and associated mutualistic toxic fungal endophytes in agroecosystems

For the past 35 years, a significant effort was devoted to identifying the cause of tall fescue toxicosis, a symptomless infection of tall fescue (Schedonorus phoenix [Scop.] Holub, formerly Lolium arundinaceum [Schreb.] S. J. Darbyshire, and formerly Festuca arundinacea Schreb.) by a fungal endophyte Neotyphodium coenophialum Glenn, Hanlin, and Bacon. This endophyte grows intercellularly in stems and leaf sheaths of the host plant. Among the cool-season perennial forages, only tall fescue tolerated the punishing weather, inhospitable soil, and performance demands of beef operations on a consistent basis in the southeastern portion of the United States. Consequently, tall fescue became the forage grass of choice, which led eventually to its production on about 14 million hectares nationwide. Weather and soil conditions place numerous environmental- and management-induced stresses on the plant–fungus association that influence plant persistence and nutritive value, including alkaloid production. Livestock performance on endophyte-free tall fescue was shown to be superior to that obtained on endophyte-infected tall fescue, establishing the role of fungus in the syndrome. The suite of symptoms presenting in grazing cattle resembled ergotism but much of the early research did not target mycotoxins related to this malady. After discovery of the endophyte inhabiting tall fescue, research documented production of several types of ergot and other classes of alkaloids. This led, eventually, to numerous experiments designed to develop management strategies that reduced the toxic effects of host–endophyte associations on livestock health. Accumulation patterns of biologically active alkaloids and their responses to management were defined, suggesting possible ecological value of host–endophyte associations, and ultimately led to genetic approaches that minimized production of mycotoxins, while maintaining persistence and other agronomic traits of this valuable forage grass.
Thermal Transitions and Extrusion of Glycerol‐Plasticized Whey Protein Mixtures

The effects of glycerol and moisture contents on the thermal transitions of whey protein isolate (WPI) powder-glycerol-water mixtures were studied. Mixtures with ratios of 100:0, 70:30, 60:40, and 50:50 WPI:glycerol on a dry basis (db) were preconditioned to 0.34 +/- 0.01 (25.4 +/- 0.4 degrees C) and 0.48 +/- 0.02 (25.9 +/- 2.2 degrees C) water activity. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) showed the existence of an endothermic peak starting at 148.3 +/- 0.7 degrees C for 100% WPI preconditioned to a water activity of 0.34 +/- 0.01. The onset temperature of this peak decreased with addition and increase of glycerol content, as well as with the increase in water activity from 0.34 +/- 0.01 to 0.48 +/- 0.02. An additional endothermic transition, important for extruding the mixtures into flexible sheets, occurred in mixtures containing 50% glycerol db, preconditioned to 0.48 +/- 0.02 water activity. The onset temperature of the peak was 146 +/- 2.0 degrees C. Whey protein-based sheets containing 45.8%, 48.8%, and 51.9% glycerol db were obtained using a Haake-Leistritz corotating twin-screw extruder. All samples were obtained at a screw speed of 250 rpm and a final barrel-temperature profile of 20, 20, 20, 80, 110, and 130 degrees C. Melt temperature at the time of sheet formation was 143 to 150 degrees C. Average thickness of the sheets was 1.31 +/- 0.02 mm. Samples with 45.8% glycerol db had significantly higher tensile strength (TS) than samples with higher glycerol contents. Also, as glycerol concentration increased, sheet elastic modulus (EM) decreased significantly (P</= 0.05). Extrusion of whey protein-based sheets is an important step toward extrusion of thinner edible films for food wraps, layers, or pouches.
Land use-transportation scenario planning: promise and reality

Land use-transportation scenario planning has become increasingly common in regional and sub-regional planning processes. The technique promises to provide citizens with opportunities to engage in constructive dialogue about the future of their communities, and to serve as a basis for assertive action to direct the course of that future. This study reviews 80 scenario planning projects from more than 50 U.S. metropolitan areas. The analysis reveals important gaps in the practice of scenario planning—particularly in the areas of public participation, methodology, and institutional structures—and recent efforts to address the shortcomings.
Transcription Dependence of Chromosomal Gene Targeting by Triplex-forming Oligonucleotides

Triplex-forming oligonucleotides (TFOs) recognize and bind to specific DNA sequences and have been used to modify gene function in cells. To study factors that might influence triplex formation at chromosomal sites in mammalian cells, we developed a restriction protection assay to detect triplex-directed psoralen crosslinks in genomic DNA prepared from TFO-transfected cells. Using this assay, we detected binding of a G-rich TFO to a chromosomal site even in the absence of transcription when high concentrations of the TFO were used for transfection. However, experimental induction of transcription at the target site, via an ecdysone-responsive promoter, resulted in substantial increases (3-fold or more) in target site crosslinking, especially at low TFO concentrations. When RNA polymerase activity was inhibited, even in the ecdysone-induced cells, the level of TFO binding was significantly decreased, indicating that transcription through the target region, and not just transcription factor binding, is necessary for the enhanced chromosomal targeting by TFOs. These findings provide evidence that physiologic activity at a chromosomal target site can influence its accessibility to TFOs and suggest that gene targeting by small molecules may be most effective at highly expressed chromosomal loci.
Having a First Versus a Second Child Comparing Women’s Maternity Leave Choices and Concerns

There are good reasons to suspect that the transition parents go through when having their second child may be different from when having their first, yet these differences remain understudied. This study focuses on one specific area of possible divergence by looking at how first-time versus second-time mothers decide on maternity leave length. To address this question, a series of in-depth semistructured longitudinal interviews were conducted at three different times over the course of 1 year with 16 pregnant public school teachers; 8 of whom were having their first child and 8 their second child. Findings indicate that some areas in which differences emerged include the level of influence of the Family and Medical Leave Act guidelines, comfort level with using paid child care, and the gendered nature of their parenting ideologies.
HIV-associated renal diseases in Africa—a desperate need for additional study

305: 1183–1190 40. Murota S, Morita I, Suda N. The control of vascular endothelial cell injury. Ann N Y Acad Sci 1990; 598: 182–187 41. Lee S, Moon SO, Kim W et al. Protective role of L-2-oxothiazolidine-4-carboxylic acid in cisplatin-induced renal injury. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2006; 21: 2085–2095 42. Camps M, Nichols A, Arkinstall S. Dual specificity phosphatases: a gene family for control of MAP kinase function. FASEB J 2000; 14: 6–16 43. Wang SY, Iordanov M, Zhang Q. c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase promotes apoptosis by down-regulating the transcriptional co-repressor CtBP. J Biol Chem 2006; 281: 34810–34815
Concrete structures for 2000M depth

For structures in the deep ocean, a new set of criteria are required for design and construction. Planning for such deep ocean structures is now necessary, particularly for prospective utilization as anchor blocks for the mooring of ocean thermal energy plants. The technology is also applicable to seafloor production and storage of oil and to certain proposed deep sea mining facilities. This paper presents an evaluation of design criteria, along with a proposed system for design, construction, and installation of a deep sea anchor block. Prof. of Civil Engineering University of California, Berkeley
Intertemporal Framing Issues in Management Compensation

Abstract This study investigates whether manager–decision-makers’ expectations about incentive compensation and environmental uncertainty influence investment decisions through their effect on the decision maker's implied discount rate. This is, to our knowledge, a first attempt to manipulate implicit risk, the risk to future payoffs associated with environmental uncertainty. Both these factors and waiting time are expected to influence implied discount rates. The study investigates discount rate influences under both bonus and penalty incentive plans. The hypothetical bonuses are year-end cash bonuses; the penalties are opportunity costs. Responses were analyzed using both analysis of variance and regression. The regression analysis was used to separate time discounting from the other factors affecting implied discount rates. Subjects’ responses to proposed changes in the timing of cash bonuses were dramatic when an expanding economy was suggested. However, subjects’ responses to penalty provisions were less dramatic than corresponding responses to the out-of-pocket negative outcomes studied in previous research. In some situations, penalty provisions may be more effective for inducing investment than bonus provisions. In addition, the results suggest that efforts to change management decision making using deferred compensation may require more deferred compensation than time discounting alone would require.
Health Policy Research in Surgery

The purpose of this chapter is to provide an overview of health policy research in surgery. We will begin by considering common pitfalls in conducting health policy research. We will then provide research examples from two key areas: (1) Physician and hospital payment reform and (2) Surgical training and workforce policy. For each area of research, recent and impending policy changes will be discussed; examples of studies that have answered important questions provided; and important research questions that are not yet answered will be highlighted. Finally, we will close with a brief discussion of the research tools necessary to generate the right answers and where to find collaborators for those interested in pursuing research in this field.
Global Regulation of Virulence Determinants in Staphylococcus aureus

Staphylococcus aureus is an important pathogen both in the community and hospital settings.1 The spectrum of diseases caused by this organism is extremely wide, ranging from superficial infections to deep-seated and systemic infections such as pneumonia, endocarditis, osteomyelitis and sepsis.2 Despite the use of antibiotics to treat these infections, the morbidity and mortality remain high, in part due to this microorganism's consistent ability to develop resistance to multiple antibiotics.3 The recent report of reduced susceptibility to vancomycin, first in Japan and subsequently in the United States has raised significant concern because it may signify the spreading of resistant S. aureus strains that may be impossible to treat with preexisting antibiotics. The pathogenicity of S. aureus is multifactorial. With the exception of toxin-mediated diseases, it has been difficult to implicate a single factor that would explain the myriad of staphylococcal syndromes. Not surprisingly, many animal studies with a single knockout of specific virulence determinants have failed to define individual factor responsible
Progress in Drug Therapy for Heart Failure

The development of treatments for heart failure has progressed rapidly in the past 10 years.Treatments include both drug therapy and non-drug therapy.Clinical research indicates that some drugs could better improve some of the patients'clinical symptoms and their prognosis.This article will review progress made in drug therapy for the treatment of heart failure.
A Study of Ownership Costs of Alternative Fuel Vehicles

Market acceptance is critical for an alternative fuel vehicle to substitute a conventional internal combustion en- gine vehicle.This paper,based on life cycle assessment theory,studied ownership cost of alternative fuel vehicles and developed an ownership cost model that has a wide range of applications to assess the evolution of an alternative fuel ve- hicle"growing"process.Case studies demonstrated that successful development of ahemative fuel vehicle can be ana- lyzed using the ownership cost model.The ownership cost model proves to be an effective tool for setting up alternative fuel vehicle strategies and transportation energy policies.
Impact of Human Immunodeficiency Virus in the Pathogenesis and Outcome of Patients with Glioblastoma Multiforme

Author(s): Choy, Winward; Lagman, Carlito; Lee, Seung J; Bui, Timothy T; Safaee, Michael; Yang, Isaac | Abstract: BackgroundImprovement in antiviral therapies have been accompanied by an increased frequency of non-Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) defining malignancies, such as glioblastoma multiforme. Here, we investigated all reported cases of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive patients with glioblastoma and evaluated their clinical outcomes. A comprehensive review of the molecular pathogenetic mechanisms underlying glioblastoma development in the setting of HIV/AIDS is provided.MethodsWe performed a PubMed search using keywords "HIV glioma" AND "glioblastoma," and "AIDS glioma" AND "glioblastoma." Case reports and series describing HIV-positive patients with glioblastoma (histologically-proven World Health Organization grade IV astrocytoma) and reporting on HAART treatment status, clinical follow-up, and overall survival (OS), were included for the purposes of quantitative synthesis. Patients without clinical follow-up data or OS were excluded. Remaining articles were assessed for data extraction eligibility.ResultsA total of 17 patients met our inclusion criteria. Of these patients, 14 (82.4%) were male and 3 (17.6%) were female, with a mean age of 39.5±9.2 years (range 19-60 years). Average CD4 count at diagnosis of glioblastoma was 358.9±193.4 cells/mm3. Tumor progression rather than AIDS-associated complications dictated patient survival. There was a trend towards increased median survival with HAART treatment (12.0 vs 7.5 months, p=0.10).ConclusionOur data suggests that HAART is associated with improved survival in patients with HIV-associated glioblastoma, although the precise mechanisms underlying this improvement remain unclear.
State Religious Exemptions and Child Medical Neglect: Ambiguity in Child Welfare Policy and Procedures

The liberty interest of parents and the state’s role as parens patriae conflict in cases of re-ligious based child medical neglect. All 50 states, District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico provide some form of religious exemption against prosecution for religious based child medical neglect. State religious exemptions related to religious based denial of medical treatment contain one or more intervention thresholds based on parental liberty interest, best interest of the child, and harm standard. Using the 2010 National District Attorneys Association’s National Center for Prosecution of Child Abuse Religious Exemption Statutes, an in-depth examination of state medical neglect religious exemption legislation prior to August 2010 was conducted for the 50 states in the continental U.S., District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. The study sample consisted of 16 states identified as including only a parental liberty interest provision in their state religious exemption statutes. A comparative analysis method was used to compare state child welfare agency/child protective services policy and procedure manu-als to determine: (a) which states provided guidelines for investigating religious based child medical neglect and (b) specific procedural requirements for investigating and re-sponding to cases of suspected or observed religious based child medical neglect. The best approach to balance parental liberty interest and states’ obligation as parens patriae to protect a child’s liberty interest of health and well-being is through policies based on the harm principle as the threshold for state intervention rather than the best interest or the liberty interest standard.
Spirituality/religiosity, substance use, and HIV testing among young black men who have sex with men

Abstract Background Spirituality and religiosity may serve as both a resource and a barrier to HIV prevention with young black men who have sex with men (YBMSM). We examined indices of spirituality/religiosity as correlates of binge drinking, stimulant use, and recent HIV testing in a sample of YBMSM. Methods From 2011–2013, annual venue-based surveys of sexually active YBMSM ages 18–29 were conducted in Dallas and Houston, Texas. Binge drinking and stimulant use were assessed in the past two months. Participants recently tested for HIV (i.e., within the past six months) were compared to those without recent HIV testing (i.e., never tested or tested more than six months ago). Results Among the 1565 HIV-negative or HIV-unknown YBMSM enrolled, more engagement in spiritual and religious activities was associated with greater odds of reporting stimulant use (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR] = 1.20; 95% CI = 1.04–1.40) while higher spiritual coping was associated with lower odds of reporting stimulant use (AOR = 0.66; 95% CI = 0.56–0.78). Binge drinking was independently associated with 29% lower odds of recent HIV testing (AOR = 0.71; 95% CI = 0.55–0.92), but lower odds of binge drinking did not mediate the association of engagement in spiritual and religious activities with 27% greater odds of recent HIV testing (AOR = 1.27; 95% CI = 1.11–1.46). Conclusions Among YBMSM, culturally tailored approaches addressing spirituality/religiosity could support prevention of stimulant use and increase HIV testing. In particular, expanded efforts are needed to promote HIV testing in binge drinkers.
Sorghum seed storage in Purdue Improved Crop Storage (PICS) bags and improvised containers

Abstract Seed storage is a major challenge for smallholder farmers in developing nations. Purdue Improved Crop Storage (PICS) bags effectively control the postharvest insect pests of cowpea and other crops. Farmers, encouraged by this success, have begun to expand the use of PICS bags for storing other crops. Little is known about how sorghum seed, one of these important crops, fares when stored under hermetic conditions. Accordingly, we stored sorghum seed for six months in either airtight containers (PICS bags or sealed plastic bottles) or open ones (woven polypropylene bags and open plastic bottles). Overall, sorghum seed stored in PICS bags and in sealed plastic bottles maintained its initial moisture level, germination rate and seed weight. Porous polypropylene bags and open plastic bottles lost moisture over six months. We conclude that sorghum seed can be safely stored in hermetic containers without any loss of quality for extended periods of time.
Aberrant Intrinsic Activity and Connectivity in Cognitively Normal Parkinson’s Disease

Disturbances in intrinsic activity during resting-state functional MRI (rsfMRI) are common in Parkinson’s disease (PD), but have largely been studied in a priori defined subnetworks. The cognitive significance of abnormal intrinsic activity is also poorly understood, as are abnormalities that precede the onset of mild cognitive impairment. To address these limitations, we leveraged three different analytic approaches to identify disturbances in rsfMRI metrics in 31 cognitively normal PD patients (PD-CN) and 30 healthy adults. Subjects were screened for mild cognitive impairment using the Movement Disorders Society Task Force Level II criteria. Whole-brain data-driven analytic approaches first analyzed the amplitude of low-frequency intrinsic fluctuations (ALFF) and regional homogeneity (ReHo), a measure of local connectivity amongst functionally similar regions. We then examined if regional disturbances in these metrics altered functional connectivity with other brain regions. We also investigated if abnormal rsfMRI metrics in PD-CN were related to brain atrophy and executive, visual organization, and episodic memory functioning. The results revealed abnormally increased and decreased ALFF and ReHo in PD-CN patients within the default mode network (posterior cingulate, inferior parietal cortex, parahippocampus, entorhinal cortex), sensorimotor cortex (primary motor, pre/postcentral gyrus), basal ganglia (putamen, caudate), and posterior cerebellar lobule VII, which mediates cognition. For default mode network regions, we also observed a compound profile of altered ALFF and ReHo. Most regional disturbances in ALFF and ReHo were associated with strengthened long-range interactions in PD-CN, notably with regions in different networks. Stronger long-range functional connectivity in PD-CN was also partly expanded to connections that were outside the networks of the control group. Abnormally increased activity and functional connectivity appeared to have a pathological, rather than compensatory influence on cognitive abilities tested in this study. Receiver operating curve analyses demonstrated excellent sensitivity (≥ 90%) of rsfMRI variables in distinguishing patients from controls, but poor accuracy for brain volume and cognitive variables. Altogether these results provide new insights into the topology, cognitive relevance, and sensitivity of aberrant intrinsic activity and connectivity that precedes clinically significant cognitive impairment. Longitudinal studies are needed to determine if these neurocognitive associations presage the development of future mild cognitive impairment or dementia.
Adaptive Inferential Method for Monotone Graph Invariants

We consider the problem of undirected graphical model inference. In many applications, instead of perfectly recovering the unknown graph structure, a more realistic goal is to infer some graph invariants (e.g., the maximum degree, the number of connected subgraphs, the number of isolated nodes). In this paper, we propose a new inferential framework for testing nested multiple hypotheses and constructing confidence intervals of the unknown graph invariants under undirected graphical models. Compared to perfect graph recovery, our methods require significantly weaker conditions. This paper makes two major contributions: (i) Methodologically, for testing nested multiple hypotheses, we propose a skip-down algorithm on the whole family of monotone graph invariants (The invariants which are non-decreasing under addition of edges). We further show that the same skip-down algorithm also provides valid confidence intervals for the targeted graph invariants. (ii) Theoretically, we prove that the length of the obtained confidence intervals are optimal and adaptive to the unknown signal strength. We also prove generic lower bounds for the confidence interval length for various invariants. Numerical results on both synthetic simulations and a brain imaging dataset are provided to illustrate the usefulness of the proposed method.
LINAC-based intensity modulated total marrow irradiation (TMI) in addition to myeloablative fludarabine/IV busulfan conditioning prior to allogeneic stem cell transplant for high-risk hematologic malignancies: A phase I study.

7045 Background: Total body irradiation (TBI) currently has limited use in stem cell transplant due to significant extra-hematologic toxicity. Intensity modulated total marrow irradiation (TMI) represents an innovative technique to selectively irradiate the bone marrow. We combined a fully myeloablative chemotherapy regimen with escalating doses of TMI in a Phase I trial in allogeneic stem cell transplant. (Id: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT00988013). Methods: A Phase 1 trial (3+3 design) for adult patients with high risk (HR) hematologic malignancies enrolled 14 patients who were transplanted from related (n=9) or unrelated (n=5) donors and included: HR acute lymphoblastic (ALL) (n=2) or myeloid (AML) (n=9) leukemia, HR multiple myeloma (n=2) and chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) (n=1) resistant to TKI. Median age was 52 years (range 20-65). Patients received fludarabine 160mg/m2, targeted i.v. busulfan (AUC 4800 μM/min) and IM-TMI (from 3 to 12 Gy). Dose Limiting Toxicity was defined as any grade 3 or 4 toxicity u...
Noninsertional Tendinopathy of the Achilles.

Noninsertional Achilles tendinosis is differentiated from insertional Achilles tendinosis based on anatomic location. Tendinosis, as opposed to tendonitis, is primarily a degenerative process and the role of inflammation is believed limited. The etiology of Achilles tendinopathy may include overuse leading to repetitive microtrauma, poor vascularity of the tissue, mechanical imbalances of the extremity, or combination of these elements. There is evidence to support eccentric exercise nonoperative management for patients with noninsertional Achilles tendinopathy. Operative treatment options include percutaneous longitudinal tenotomies, minimally invasive tendon scraping, open debridement and tubularization, and tendon augmentation with flexor hallucis longus.
A Distributed-Deflection Sensor With a Built-In Probe for Conformal Mechanical Measurements of Costal Cartilage at Its Exterior Surface

In this paper, a distributed-deflection sensor with a built-in probe is proposed to achieve conformal mechanical measurements of costal cartilage (CC) at its exterior surface. The sensor entails a rectangular sensing-plate integrated with a $5 \times 1$ transducer array with 0.75 mm spatial resolution underneath and a built-in probe of $0.5~{\mathrm{ mm}}\times 5~{\mathrm{ mm}}\times 3~{\mathrm{ mm}}$ above. By pressing the sensor against the exterior surface of a CC tissue with a pre-defined indentation depth pattern, the sensor conforms to the curved tissue surface via the built-in probe first, and then the mechanical properties of the tissue translate to the spatially distributed deflection in the sensor and register as resistance changes by the transducer array. One human Pectus Carinatum (PC) CC sample is measured using the sensor without a built-in probe, and two human PC samples are measured using the sensor with a built-in probe. The comparison in measured results among the three samples validates the capability of the sensor with a built-in probe for conformity to a curved tissue surface in measurements. Based on the recorded relation of average sensor deflection to indentation depth of the two samples measured using the sensor with a built-in probe, the tissue instant indentation modulus and normalized relaxation amount of the two samples are derived and found to vary significantly among the anterior/posterior surfaces and superior/inferior borders at the same position of each sample.
Dual Role of Water in Heterogeneous Catalytic Hydrolysis of Sarin by Zirconium-Based Metal-Organic Frameworks

Recent experimental studies on ZrIV-based metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have shown the extraordinary effectiveness of these porous materials for the detoxification of phosphorus-based chemical warfare agents (CWAs). However, pressing challenges remain with respect to characterizing these catalytic processes both at the molecular and crystalline levels. We here use theory to compare the reactivity of different zirconium-based MOFs for the catalytic hydrolysis of the CWA sarin, using both periodic and cluster modeling. We consider both hydrated and dehydrated secondary building units, as well as linker functionalized MOFs, to more fully understand and rationalize available experimental findings as well as to enable concrete predictions for achieving higher activities for the decomposition of CWAs.
Indigenous Making and Sharing: Claywork in an Indigenous STEAM Program

In this article we expand on ideas of making and maker spaces to develop Indigenous making and sharing. We draw from an ArtScience participatory design project that involved Indigenous youth, famil...
Increases in fatigue do not change spasticity scores in persons with multiple sclerosis.

Aim Fatigue is a common finding in multiple sclerosis (MS) which may result in worsening of gait, function and other MS symptoms, like spasticity. Although the worsening of spasticity with fatigue has been reported by persons with MS, the effect of fatigue on spasticity has not been measured. Purpose The purpose of this study was to compare lower extremity Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) scores of persons with mild-to-moderate MS symptoms before and after fatigued and unfatigued conditions. Methods Using a randomized crossover design, MS subjects underwent 6-min walk to induce fatigue and 6-min supine rests, with lower extremity spasticity measured before and after each condition. Friedman tests gave paired comparisons of MAS before and after each condition. Results 16 subjects with mild-to-moderate MS completed the study (mean age = 56; standard deviation = 11.7). Friedman tests showed a significant decrease in mean rank for overall average MAS for both lower extremities (p = 0.031) when comparing fatigued to unfatigued conditions. This appeared to be driven by the right lower extremity average MAS (p = 0.002) and, more specifically, in post hoc pre to post-test comparisons for right knee flexor (p = 0.002 fatigued; p = 0.059 unfatigued) and right knee extensor (p = 0.001 fatigued; p = 0.020 unfatigued) MAS mean rank differences. Fatigue did not result in increased spasticity. Conclusion Spasticity in these subjects with MS was not worsened by fatigue suggesting that worsening of gait with fatigue may be due to causes other than spasticity.
Conceptual user interface for the land management system

This paper explores the conceptual user interface requirements of the Land Management System (LMS), a next-generation system designed to support the development of location-specific landscape/watershed management oriented simulation models. Currently available landscape/watershed models tend to be discipline-specific, focusing only on hydrology, ecology, social, economic or agronomic aspects of the landscape's subsystems. Feedback loops among the different subsystems tend be ignored, and this can result in long-term predictions that may not be useful. LMS will provide landscape and watershed managers with sets of software modules that can be linked together to represent and simulate unique local conditions. A design challenge of LMS is to develop a user interface that makes it possible for a watershed/landscape manager to develop and use multidisciplinary spatially explicit landscape simulation models that retain the scientific rigour of current scientist-oriented simulation models. This paper outlines a solution in response to that challenge.
The effects of zirconium on the dissolution rate of thoria in nitric-hydrofluoric acid solutions

Dissolution tests using ThO/sub 2/ microspheres, ThO/sub 2/ pellets, and Zircaloy tubing were performed to establish conditions that can be used for the selective dissolution of thoria from Zircaloy cladding. Although additional work is needed in several areas, the following conditions are tentatively recommended for use in process demonstration tests: 0.02 to 0.04 M HF in refluxing 8 to 12 M HNO/sub 3/ with sufficient Al/sup 3 +/, or (preferably) Zr/sup 4 +/, added to prevent major corrosion of the stainless steel dissolver vessel. If Zr/sup 4 +/ is used, the concentration required is approximately the same molarity as the fluoride concentration.
Pattern Stimuli for Clinical ERG

Electrophysiological studies on six patients with different types of retinal disease have been presented. These cases are used to illustrate the effectiveness of the alternating bar pattern ERG in detecting electrophysiological dysfunction when it is limited to the macular and paramacular area.
Acoustic Blind Deconvolution and Unconventional Nonlinear Beamforming in Shallow Ocean Environments

Abstract : The overall long-term goal for this project is to develop engineering tools that are useful to the Navy as it operates in uncertain, partially known, or unknown ocean environments. During the last year, this project has focused on further determining the utility of a fully passive propagation-physics-based technique for blind deconvolution of array-recorded sounds from a remote source with emphasis on determining how sparse-array measurements might be used for this task, and how source-to-array range information can be robustly extracted from the deconvolution process. The long term goals of this project are: i) to determine the effectiveness of synthetic time reversal (STR) for the purposes of blind deconvolution in noisy unknown ocean sound channels, ii) to effectively apply STR to marine mammal sounds recorded in the ocean with vertical and/or horizontal arrays, and iii) to utilize the STR-estimated signals and ocean-sound-channel impulse responses to classify, localize, and/or track individual marine mammals (or other sound sources) of interest. Progress this year has primarily been made toward goals ii) and iii).
Consensus mechanisms and information security technologies

Abstract Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) helps maintain and distribute predefined types of information and data in a decentralized manner. It removes the reliance on a third-party intermediary, while securing information exchange and creating shared truth via transaction records that are hard to tamper with. The successful operation of DLT stems largely from two computer science technologies: consensus mechanisms and information security protocols. Consensus mechanisms, such as Proof of Work (PoW) and Raft, ensure that the DLT network collectively agrees on contents stored in the ledger. Information security protocols, such as encryption and hashing, protect data integrity and safeguard data against unauthorized access. The most popular incarnation of DLT has been used in cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, through public blockchains, which requires the application of more robust consensus protocols across the entire network. An example is PoW, which has been employed by Bitcoin, but which is also highly energy inefficient. Other forms of DLT include consortium and private blockchains where networks are configured within federated entities or a single organization, in which case less energy intensive consensus protocols (such as Raft) would suffice. This chapter surveys existing consensus mechanisms and information security technologies used in DLT.
A General Model Validation and Testing Tool

Abstract We construct and propose the “Bayesian Validation Metric” (BVM) as a general model validation and testing tool. We find the BVM to be capable of representing all of the standard validation metrics (square error, reliability, probability of agreement, frequentist, area, probability density comparison, statistical hypothesis testing, and Bayesian model testing) as special cases and find that it can be used to improve, generalize, or further quantify their uncertainties. Thus, the BVM allows us to assess the similarities and differences between existing validation metrics in a new light. The BVM has the capacity to allow users to invent and select models according to novel validation requirements. We formulate and test a few novel compound validation metrics that improve upon other validation metrics in the literature. Further, we construct the BVM Ratio for the purpose of quantifying model selection under user defined definitions of agreement in the presence or absence of uncertainty. This construction generalizes the Bayesian model testing framework.
Soft Tissue Reconstruction of the Foot

The primary goal in foot reconstruction after trauma is to preserve function of the entire lower limb by helping to restore a stable weight-bearing surface that allows for painless ambulation. Additional considerations include ease of shoe fitting and aesthetic form of the reconstructed foot. When foot reconstruction is not possible or is complicated by failure or infection, the patient is at risk for undergoing a below-knee amputation.
Chapter 13 – MULTIPLE REGRESSION

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses multiple regression. Some objectives of the multiple regression are: (1) to obtain the best available prediction equation for the model chosen; (2) to test whether the model can be justifiably used at all; (3) to test whether all the variables are worth retaining or alternatively whether little will be lost if certain variables are omitted; (4) to determine how closely y may be estimated from a set of xj's; (5) to test whether the model may be desirably modified; and (6) to rank the variables xj roughly in terms of their usefulness in prediction. The chapter presents the approach to multiple regression in two forms, the first of which does not make use of modern algebra and the second approach makes use of vectors and matrices and is intimately related to computers and their output.
Early Recognition of Anaphylaxis in High Risk Settings

Anaphylaxis is a rapidly progressive systemic allergic reaction that can result in life-threatening symptoms and, in rare instances, death. Early recognition and prompt treatment with epinephrine followed by medical assessment and supportive care are the key elements that offer the best chance for preventing severe outcomes. Not all patients at risk for future anaphylaxis necessarily share the same risk for severe outcomes or fatality. Understanding the specific situations, patient characteristics, and scenarios that offer the greatest risk for severe anaphylaxis is important for medical professionals and patients alike. This chapter will discuss these situations and offer practical tools to help better educate patients and medical professionals regarding high-risk settings.
Magnetism of Nd 2 O 3 single crystals near the Néel temperature

Single crystals of ${\mathrm{Nd}}_{2}{\mathrm{O}}_{3}$ were grown and characterized using neutron scattering and thermodynamic measurements. ${\mathrm{Nd}}_{2}{\mathrm{O}}_{3}$ has long-range antiferromagnetic order below ${T}_{\mathrm{N}}=0.55$ K and specific-heat measurements have demonstrated that a significant amount of the magnetic entropy is released above ${T}_{\mathrm{N}}$. Inelastic neutron scattering experiments reveal a magnetic mode(s) with little dispersion peaked at $\ensuremath{\approx}0.37\phantom{\rule{0.28em}{0ex}}\mathrm{meV}$ that is of greatest intensity below ${T}_{\mathrm{N}}$ but persists above $2{T}_{\mathrm{N}}$. This persistence of dynamic correlations is likely related to frustrated interactions associated with the nearly ideal stacked triangular lattice geometry of ${J}_{\text{eff}}=\frac{1}{2}$ spins on ${\mathrm{Nd}}^{3+}$ ions. The magnetization is observed to be strongly anisotropic at all temperatures due to crystal field effects, with easy-plane anisotropy observed. A noncompensated magnetic structure is inferred from the temperature dependence of the magnetization when a magnetic field of sufficient strength is applied within the basal plane near ${T}_{\mathrm{N}}$, and the evolution of the long-range order is summarized in a temperature-field phase diagram.
Creation and grading of experimental corneal scars in mice models.

Abstract Purpose To develop a stromal wound healing model and a reliable scar classification score system that correlates photographic evaluation with changes in the structure and organization of the extracellular matrix. Materials and methods We tested three stromal injury techniques in adult C57BL/6 mice. Technique 1, a lineal partial thickness keratotomy in the horizontal axis. Technique 2, corneal epithelial and stromal debridement using a diamond burr in the horizontal axis, and technique 3, a combination of techniques 1 and 2. To assess intra-observer and inter-observer agreement between two examiners evaluating formed stromal scars, stereo microscopic photographs of anterior segment were scored by two masked examiners at around 1-month. Depending on the severity of opacification and the area of involvement, scars were classified on a scale from 0 to 3 based on a modified Fantes haze scale. Extracellular matrix composition as well as matrix organization, macrophage infiltration and neovascularization were evaluated with immunofluorescence and second harmonic generation (SHG) microscopy. Results Technique 1 created mild scars, with a score of 0.5 ± 0.43, while techniques 2 (score 2.1 ± 0.45) and 3 (score 2 ± 0.66), created dense scars with a higher score. A significant difference in scar severity score was noted between the 3 techniques (one way ANOVA, p Conclusion Mouse models of stromal scarring using simple surgical techniques are described. Corneal scars can be consistently classified by two observers. Grading of scar severity positively correlates with changes in extracellular matrix composition, disorganization and cell infiltration.
Livelihood Resilience to Climate Change in Family Farming System (Case Study: Wheat Farmers’ Mahidasht in Kermanshah)

Over 90 percent of the agrarian system in the west of Iran is based on family farming. Thus, rural people in this region are dependent on agricultural resources, pastoral systems, and nonfarm activities for their livelihood, which has heightened their vulnerability to climate change. Therefore, this study aims to measure the livelihood resilience of family farming to climate change in Mahidasht. For this purpose, a cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in 2018. A total of 338 wheat farmers were selected for interview on the basis of a systematic random sampling method. The instrument developed by the Speranza module was translated into the Persian language. The reliability of the questionnaire was confirmed by Cronbach's alpha and Cohen's Kappa coefficient. Results revealed that the capacity for learning was improved compared to the other components of livelihood resilience. However, less than half of all participants (44.51) did not have adequate self-organization. Based on the results, the framework proposed for measuring livelihood resilience has a holistic view and can measure all aspects of resilience. It is, thus, recommended to use this framework in the research related to this field. Moreover, livelihood resilience to climate change was found to be influenced by gender, marital status, age, and level of education. Hence, it is recommended to local planners and relevant authorities to consider these differences when developing livelihood resilience plans in the region and design their plans based on these differences.
Responsible product design to mitigate excessive gambling: A scoping review and z-curve analysis of replicability.

Objectives Systematic mapping of evaluations of tools and interventions that are intended to mitigate risks for gambling harm. Design Scoping Review and z-curve analysis (which estimates the average replicability of a body of literature). Search strategy We searched 7 databases. We also examined reference lists of included studies, as well as papers that cited included studies. Included studies described a quantitative empirical assessment of a game-based (i.e., intrinsic to a specific gambling product) structural feature, user-directed tool, or regulatory initiative to promote responsible gambling. At least two research assistants independently performed screening and extracted study characteristics (e.g., study design and sample size). One author extracted statistics for the z-curve analysis. Results 86 studies met inclusion criteria. No tools or interventions had unambiguous evidence of efficacy, but some show promise, such as within-session breaks in play. Pre-registration of research hypotheses, methods, and analytic plans was absent until 2019, reflecting a recent embracement of open science practices. Published studies also inconsistently reported effect sizes and power analyses. The results of z-curve provide some evidence of publication bias, and suggest that the replicability of the responsible product design literature is uncertain but could be low. Conclusion Greater transparency and precision are paramount to improving the evidence base for responsible product design to mitigate gambling-related harm.