cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
DISTRIBUTIVE POLITICS AND THE ALLOCATION OF FEDERAL GRANTS

Understanding the dynamics of policy distribution requires an appreciation of federal grant programs that have achieved a prominent place in nearly all areas of domestic policy. The theoretical literature on distributive politics, however, focuses almost exclusively on a centralized, top-down view of policy distribution. By examining the role of presidents, legislators, and bureaucrats, scholars have ignored participants who have become key actors in the distribution of federal expenditures-the recipient jurisdictions. This analysis of the allocation patterns under six federal programs shows that local governments exert important influences on the distribution of federal grants and that the distributional patterns and their determinants vary over time. The analysis also points out the importance of disaggregation by focusing on programs and recipient jurisdictions, as opposed to total federal expenditures and regions, states, or congressional districts.
Psychometric Properties of the Glaucoma Treatment Compliance Assessment Tool in a Multicenter Trial

Purpose To assess the psychometric properties of a new version of the Glaucoma Treatment Compliance Assessment Tool, a survey evaluating health behavior and glaucoma adherence using constructs from the Health Belief Model. Design Psychometric analysis. Methods We administered the 47-statement Glaucoma Treatment Compliance Assessment Tool to 201 participants who were using a single bottle of an ocular hypotensive agent, and objectively measured adherence with medication event monitoring system devices over 60 days. Adherence was the percentage of days with correctly timed bottle openings. We used principal components analysis to determine construct validity, Cronbach's alpha for internal consistency reliability, frequency analysis for floor and ceiling effects, and Spearman rho for test-retest reliability. We determined predictive validity using univariate and multiple regression. Results The mean (±SD, range) adherence percentage was 79.9% (±18.5%, 20.3%–100.0%). Principal component analysis loaded 24 questions into 6 components that were consistent with the Health Belief Model. All 6 components had Cronbach's alpha reliability between 0.601 and 0.797. No statements had floor or ceiling effects, and all statements had acceptable test-retest reliability. Multiple regression analysis showed 4 Health Belief Model statements, white race, older age, and married marital status to be associated with higher adherence (adjusted R 2 = 0.27, P Conclusions The newest version of the Glaucoma Treatment Compliance Assessment Tool showed acceptable psychometric properties. With further refinement, clinicians and researchers could use it to examine factors related to adherence and measure improvement in adherence with a change in health behavior attitudes.
International risk sharing and capital mobility: another look

In a recent article, Brennan and Solnik (1989) attempt to quantify numerically the welfare benefits of risk sharing by a group of OECD economies. The result of their calculation is striking; in their words (p. 371), ‘The estimated welfare loss due to impairment of efficient risk sharing if capital flows were eliminated is of the order of 448 per cent of the level of consumption prevailing in the early 1970s.’ This note argues that the Brennan-Solnik welfare measure is faulty and leads to a substantial overstatement of the potential welfare benefits of international risk sharing within their sample of countries. For standard levels of risk aversion, the Brennan-Solnik measure may overstate these benefits by as much as two orders of magnitude. This is true even if one accepts as valid the empirical assumptions the authors make in calculating the consumption-variability estimates that underlie their welfare conclusions.
The fundamental solution method for elliptic boundary value problems

This article presents an efficient field discretization method based on fundamental solutions for elliptic boundary value problems, represented in this monogram by the steady-state heat conduction equation. The results have shown that the method is highly accurate and does not require the fine grid resolution that other techniques demand.
PLASMA-HD: probing the lattice structure and makeup of high-dimensional data

Rapidly making sense of, analyzing, and extracting useful information from large and complex data is a grand challenge. A user tasked with meeting this challenge is often befuddled with questions on where and how to begin to understand the relevant characteristics of such data. Real-world problem scenarios often involve scalability limitations and time constraints.In this paper we present an incremental interactive data analysis system as a step to address this challenge. This system builds on recent progress in the fields of interactive data exploration, locality sensitive hashing, knowledge caching, and graph visualization. Using visual clues based on rapid incremental estimates, a user is provided a multi-level capability to probe and interrogate the intrinsic structure of data. Throughout the interactive process, the output of previous probes can be used to construct increasingly tight coherence estimates across the parameter space, providing strong hints to the user about promising analysis steps to perform next.We present examples, interactive scenarios, and experimental results on several synthetic and real-world datasets which show the effectiveness and efficiency of our approach. The implications of this work are quite broad and can impact fields ranging from top-k algorithms to data clustering and from manifold learning to similarity search.
Role stress and job stress among detention care workers

This study examined predictors of role and job stress among detention care workers. Using a sample of detention care workers in two metropolitan detention centers in a southeastern state, the study...
Kynurenine formamidase inhibition as a possible mechanism for certain teratogenic effects of organophosphorus and methylcarbamate insecticides in chicken embryos.

Abstract At least two types of developmental anomalies are induced in chicken embryos by certain organophosphorus (OP) and methylcarbamate (MC) insecticides. One of them (Type I) leads to micromelia and abnormal feathering and another (Type II) involves arthrogryposis, wry neck and rumplessness. Type I but not type II teratogenesis is associated with a lowered embryo NAD level and is alleviated on restoring the NAD level by administration of intermediates in the tryptophan to NAD biosynthetic pathway. These and other observations with chicken embryos suggest but do not in themselves establish that impairment in the conversion of tryptophan to NAD, possibly by inhibition of kynurenine formamidase, leads to type I teratogenesis. This hypothesis is supported by finding that mouse liver kynurenine formamidase is extremely sensitive to in vivo inhibition by those OP and MC compounds which are the most potent NAD lowering agents and teratogens in the chicken embryo, i.e. crotonamide phosphates and pyrimidyl phosphorothionates such as dicrotophos and diazinon and MC compounds such as carbaryl. Teratological or other toxicological manifestations of kynurenine formamidase inhibition are probably restricted to species and developmental stages where reduced enzyme activity significantly impairs maintenance of normal levels of NAD or other essential biochemicals derived from kynurenine.
A note on the term 'lithic'

The term ‘lithic’ is derived from the ancient Greek word for ‘rock’ ( lithos ), used in the late fourth century BCE by the scholar Theophrastus. The term ‘lithic’ in the way we use it today, meaning small rock artifact, most often chipped or ground stone, came into common use less than eight decades ago. The terms ‘stone tool’ and ‘stone implement’ remain firmly entrenched in the archaeological literature.
HIGH-PRESSURE SYNTHESIS OF LUTETIUM TRILEAD

Abstract The compound LuPb 3 was synthesized at pressures of 67 to 88 kbar concurrent with temperatures of 700 to 1100 °C. The LuPb 3 is face-centered cubic in structure (AuCu 3 type) with a cell parameter of 4.786 A. The LuPb 3 could not be prepared at room pressure, but the previously indexed trilead compounds of Tb, Ho, Er, and Tm could be prepared by either room pressure or high pressure techniques. The rare earth-trilead compound series is now complete.
Uptake and Retention of Aluminum by Dental Enamel

The uptake, depth of penetration, and retention of aluminum (Al) in sound and acid-etched dental enamel were determined following in vitro applications of solutions containing 0.005 M or 0.037 M Al. Compared with controls, significant amounts of Al uptake (approximately 2000 to 6000 ppm) were detected in both sound and etched enamel, with significantly more Al deposited in the latter. Analysis of successive layers of treated enamel demonstrated that Al was located predominantly within the first 20 microns of surface enamel. Only slight reductions in Al retention occurred following one week of water-soaking or one minute of brushing with water or dentifrice, indicating that Al was firmly bound by enamel.
Fixing Max-Product: Convergent Message Passing Algorithms for MAP LP-Relaxations

We present a novel message passing algorithm for approximating the MAP problem in graphical models. The algorithm is similar in structure to max-product but unlike max-product it always converges, and can be proven to find the exact MAP solution in various settings. The algorithm is derived via block coordinate descent in a dual of the LP relaxation of MAP, but does not require any tunable parameters such as step size or tree weights. We also describe a generalization of the method to cluster based potentials. The new method is tested on synthetic and real-world problems, and compares favorably with previous approaches.
Low-Cost IR Reflective Sensors for Submicrolevel Position Measurement and Control

This paper investigates the feasibility of using commercially available, low-cost IR reflective sensors for micro- to sub- microscale position measurement and control. These sensors are typically used as optical switches; however, their application for detecting fine motion, such as the movement of a piezoactuator, has not been investigated. Five IR sensors were evaluated to determine their range, resolution, linear distortion, noise characteristics, and bandwidth. Experimental results show that the performance of the IR sensors compares well with a commercial inductive sensor that costs significantly more. For example, the measured resolution was within several hundred nanometers over a plusmn200 mum range and the linear distortion was significantly lower than the inductive sensor. A selected IR sensor was used in the design of a state-feedback control system to compensate for hysteresis and creep in an experimental piezopositioner. Compared to the open-loop system, by using the IR sensor in feedback, the output hysteresis was reduced by over 95 %. These results show the potential of such sensors in the design of low-cost microprecision mechatronic positioning systems.
Modeling nanophotothermal therapy: kinetics of thermal ablation of healthy and cancerous cell organelles and gold nanoparticles.

Abstract Nanoparticles are being researched as a noninvasive method for selectively killing cancer cells. With particular antibody coatings on nanoparticles, they attach to the abnormal cells of interest (cancer or otherwise). Once attached, nanoparticles can be heated with ultraviolet-visible/infrared or radiofrequency pulses, heating the surrounding area of the cell to its point of death. Researchers often use single-pulse or multi-pulse modes of laser heating when conducting nanoparticle ablation research. In this article, time-dependent simulations and detailed analyses are carried out for different nonstationary pulsed laser–nanoparticle interaction modes, and the advantages and disadvantages of single-pulse and multi-pulse (set of short pulses) laser heating of nanoparticles are shown. Simulations are performed for the metal nanoparticles in the biological surrounding medium as well as for healthy and cancerous cell organelles. From the Clinical Editor External laser pulses can be used to generate heating of targeted metal nanoparticles for thermal ablation therapy of cancers, however the approach used in individual studies is idiosyncratic. In this manuscript, time-dependent simulations and analyses are used to determine the pros and cons of single versus multiple laser pulses for differential impact of healthy versus cancerous cell organelles.
From ML to Ada: Strongly-typed language interoperability via source translation

We describe a system that supports source-level integration of ML-like functional language code with ANSI C or Ada83 code. The system works by translating the functional code into type-correct, ‘vanilla’ C or Ada; it offers simple, efficient, type-safe inter-operation between new functional code components and ‘legacy’ third-generation-language components. Our translator represents a novel synthesis of techniques including user-parameterized specification of primitive types and operators; removal of polymorphism by code specialization; removal of higher-order functions using closure datatypes and interpretation; and aggressive optimization of the resulting first-order code, which can be viewed as encoding the result of a closure analysis. Programs remain fully typed at every stage of the translation process, using only simple, standard type systems. Target code runs at speeds comparable to the output of current optimizing ML compilers, even though handicapped by a conservative garbage collector.
Self-organized criticality in forest-landscape evolution

A simple cellular automaton replicates the fractal pattern of a natural forest landscape and predicts its evolution. Spatial distributions and temporal fluctuations in global quantities show power-law spectra, implying scale-invariance, characteristic of self-organized criticality. The evolution toward the SOC state and the robustness of that state to perturbations are described.
Blind pinning of displaced supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children. Sixteen years' experience with long-term follow-up.

Reduction and percutaneous pinning of these troublesome fractures provided stability, vascular safety, simplified management, reduced hospital stay, and consistently satisfactory appearance and function of the elbow in seventy-two patients. Difficulty in mastering the technique was the only major disadvantage, and was overcome by using a simple holding bracket during the pinning. Varus deformity was prevented by avoiding medial tilt of the distal fragment. Our long-term study showed that the fixation pins do not disturb the growth potential of the distal end of the humerus. Cubitus varus, when it occurred, was a result of imperfect reduction rather than growth disturbance. In fifty-two fractures on long-term follow-up, satisfactory results were recorded in 98 per cent. Vascular and neural complications were minor, and no Volkmann's contractures were seen.
A revision of Desmoncus (Arecaceae)

A taxonomic revision of the Neotropical palm genus Desmoncus based on morphological data and morphometric methods was carried out. Eight hundred and fifty-one herbarium specimens were scored for 16 qualitative variables and 16 quantitative variables. Qualitative variables were divided into 15 characters and one trait. Using the Phylogenetic Species Concept, characters were applied to recognize 24 species. These are widely distributed in Central and South America from southern Mexico to Bolivia and Paraguay, and to Trinidad, Tobago, and the Lesser Antilles. Analysis of each species for geographic distribution and quantitative variables led to recognition of 9 subspecies in two of the species, giving a total of 31 taxa. Seven new species ( D. kunarius, D. interjectus, D. loretanus, D. madrensis, D. moorei, D. obovoideus, D. osensis ) and two new subspecies ( D. horridus subsp. occidentalis, D. mitis subsp. ecirratus ) are described. Five new combinations are made. One of the most variable species is considered to be a species complex and is divided into morphotypes: groups of similar specimens without formal taxonomic status. Nomenclature, descriptions, and distribution maps are provided for each species and subspecies. Images of type specimens of all new taxa are also given.
Abstract Properties of Finite Fields

In the last chapter we saw that given a prime field F p and an mth degree irreducible polynomial p(x) in F p [x], we can construct a field with p m elements. Of course we don’t yet know whether there are any such polynomials! Fortunately it turns out that such polynomials do exist, and we shall prove that they do in Chapter 6. In this chapter we will prepare for the proof. This preparation will consist of an investigation of some of the important structural properties of finite fields, properties that do not depend on how the field was constructed.
Duties of Patients to Their Caregivers

At least in its more abstract guises, morality is a great leveler. Both the broad notions that are typically touted as constitutive of ethical theory, such as “universalizability” and “impartiality,” and the deliberative strategies that make up the heart of many particular theories — “the original position” in Rawls, or Bentham’s ringing slogan, “each counts for one, no one for more than one” — suggest that, at base, all moral beings are peers, and that a large part of living a moral life involves a quest to weaken the hold of ethically insignificant differences on our attitudes and behavior.
Interference Modeling, Shaping and Avoidance in Cognitive Wireless Networks

Opportunistic access to the radio spectrum, enabled by cognitive radios, seems to be the solution to the voracious demand for the statically assigned but highly underutilized radio spectrum. Cognitive radios, benefiting from their advanced features including adaptability and spectrum sensing, can coexist and share the spectrum with licensed radios, under the constraint that their interference remains below a manageable level. In this chapter, using tools from theory of point processes, statistical models are obtained for interference and power control strategies are proposed for interference avoidance. In addition, a cooperative framework is proposed where cognitive radios are assigned the spectrum for a portion of time as remuneration for their assistance in modifying their interference statistics and improving the capacity of primary links. Simulation and analytical results are provided to confirm the accuracy of the analytical derivations.
Provider Perspective on Integrative Medicine for Pediatric Sickle Cell Disease-related Pain:

ObjectiveIntegrative medicine (IM) approaches are sometimes used to manage sickle cell disease (SCD)— related pain. The purpose of this research is to (1) understand provider perspective towards th...
Examining Relevant Influences on the Persistence of African-American College Students at a Diverse Urban University.

In this study, campus involvement, faculty mentorship, motivational beliefs (self-efficacy and utility value), and sense of belonging were examined as potential predictors of African-American colle...
Foreigners in the Intendencia of Paraguay

The Spanish American Empire in its last half century of existence experienced an economic resurgence in oceanic shipping and inter-change with Europe. That prosperity, prompted by the reforms of the enlightened Bourbon monarch, Charles III, produced an unexpected result. Non-Spanish immigrants appeared in ever increasing numbers in Spain's American colonies. That immigration, almost always illegal, had always occurred in the colonial era in spite of the many barriers erected to exclude foreigners. Now, searching for economic opportunities, these immigrants participated in the economic revitalization of Spanish America. For the most part these newcomers posed no threat to the state; and often by virtue of their commercial expertise or skilled labor, were a boon to Spanish American economic life. Unofficially, imperial officials were well aware of this. The major concern, regardless of official statements, was that immigrants profess the Catholic faith. Many of the newcomers soon acquired families in the New World, pursued their own ends, and quietly melded into Spanish American society. Certainly that proved to be the case in the Rio de la Plata. In this vast region, until the creation of the Viceroyalty in 1776, Spanish authority had been loose and the small foreign presence was generally tolerated or just ignored.
Comparing r-Tissue Factor and Mammalian Tissue Reagents for Prothrombin Time

We compared two recombinant human tissue factor (r-TF) prothrombin time (PT) reagents with two commercially available mammalian PT reagents. The two r-TF reagents were more sensitive to the lower concentrations of factors II, VII, IX, andX. The r-TF preparations were found to give longer clotting times than the mammalian thromboplastins when plasma samples from oral anticoagulant–treated patients were tested. When international normalized ratios (INRs) were calculated, however, no significant differences were noted among reagents when INR values were less than or equal to 3.0; however, at INR values greater than 3.0, differences were noted. The r-TF was more sensitive to the thrombin inhibitors than were heparins. Because of different origins and composition, the currently available thromboplastin reagents are not equivalent, and the results obtained from these should be interpreted carefully.
Aldehyde Complexes with Protonated Peptides in the Gas Phase

This Article presents a study of aldehyde complexes with peptide ions formed by bimolecular collisions in the gas phase. Desolvated ions generated by electrospray ionization are stored within a rad...
A “Counterexample” for the Schwarz-Christoffel Transform

(1983). A “Counterexample” for the Schwarz-Christoffel Transform. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 90, No. 10, pp. 701-703.
Triangulation-measurement schemes in the multivariate analysis of size and shape

Skulls of seven rodent species were measured by a triangulation-measurement scheme and subjected to multivariate analysis. Results were compared to studies from the literature based on traditional measurements for the proportion of variance explained by overall body size, the number of shape factors, and the ease of interpretation of these factors. Principal-components analysis of triangulation measurements showed that size variation accounted for less than half of the variance within samples of Akodon , Gerbillurus , Chaetodipus , and Dipodomys . In contrast, size accounts for more than half of the variance in most studies in which traditional skull measurements were analyzed. Triangulation measurements appear to capture more information about variation in shape than do traditional measurements. In addition, shape factors extracted from these species can be interpreted in terms of variation in spsecific regions of the skull. Regional patterns of covariation maybe more amenable to explanations involving underlying biological processes than are results of multivariate analysis of more traditional measurements.
Size and Shape Effects of Pd@Pt Core–Shell Nanoparticles: Unique Role of Surface Contraction and Local Structural Flexibility

In this article, we present a density functional theory (DFT) study of nanoparticles (NPs) using a more realistic particle model, which allows us to model Pd@Pt core–shell NPs in size of 1–3 nm (number of atoms: 35–405) and shape [tetrahedron (TH); sphere-like truncated octahedron (SP)] precisely. Our results show that the size and shape have significant effects on the stability and activity of a Pd@Pt NP toward the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). More importantly it is found for the first time that the variation in activity with particle size is shape-dependent. In addition, under the ORR conditions the adsorbate-driven structural changes on the terraces of nanoparticles can occur, which is relevant for understanding the observed activity and stability. According to our DFT calculations, the catalytic behaviors of Pd@Pt nanoparticles are associated with the surface contraction (compressive strain) and the local structural flexibility, which are strongly size- and shape-dependent. Our study demonstrates ...
Does compact land use trigger a rise in crime and a fall in ridership? A role for crime in the land use–travel connection:

Studies in the land use–travel connection have long neglected the role of neighbourhood crime. This paper analyses such a role of crime and explores whether more compact land-use characteristics te...
Incidence, Morbidity, and Costs of Human Metapneumovirus Infection in Hospitalized Children

BACKGROUND Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) causes acute respiratory tract infections in infants and children. We sought to measure the clinical and economic burden of HMPV infection in hospitalized children. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study from 2007 to 2013 at Primary Children's Hospital in Salt Lake City, Utah. Children <18 years of age with laboratory-confirmed HMPV infection were included. Demographic, clinical, and financial data were abstracted from the electronic medical record. RESULTS During the study period, 815 children were hospitalized with laboratory-confirmed HMPV infection: 16% <6 months, 50% 6-23 months, 23% 2-4 years, and 11% 5-17 years of age. A complex chronic condition was identified in 453 (56%) children hospitalized with HMPV infection; this proportion increased with increasing age (P < .001). There was marked variation in annual HMPV hospitalization rates, ranging from 9 of 100 000 person-years in 2012-2013 to 79 of 100 000 in 2009-2010. Hospitalization rates were highest among children <2 years (200 of 100 000 person-years) and lowest among children 5-17 years of age (5 of 100 000). Of hospitalized children, 18% were treated in the intensive care unit and 6% required mechanical ventilation. The median length of stay was 2.8 days (interquartile range [IQR], 1.8-4.6) and did not vary by age. The median total hospital cost per patient was $5513 (IQR, $3850-$9946) with significantly higher costs for patients with chronic medical conditions (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS Human metapneumovirus infection results in a large number of hospitalizations with substantial morbidity, resource utilization, and costs. The development of a safe and effective vaccine could reduce the clinical and economic burden of HMPV.
Sun Tzu's Innovative and Progressive Military Thinking and Modern Military Transformation

Sun Tzu's innovative and progressive military thinking and modern military transformation are intimately connected.All important issues in modern military transformation have drawn on Sun Tzu's innovative spirit,which is analyzed in this article from five aspects: drawing on macro thinking of paying attention to and exploiting the situation,realizing the trend of military transformation in the world,and taking active part in the practice of transformation;drawing on the military concepts of giving first priority to politics and human beings,correctly learning the principal part of war and put strengthening national power in the first place;drawing on the innovative spirit of being not old-fashioned to win a war,emancipating the mind and establishing new thinking concept in accordance with military transformation;drawing on the pioneering spirit of according to present situation to obey or change the set tactics for the purpose of winning the war,and pushing forward the innovation and development of military theory to supply military transformation with theoretical guidance and support;drawing on the concept of viewing the situation as a whole and being in the same boat,rightly learning the developing trend of military integration and putting strategy and tactics in the key position in military guidance and construction.
NEOVASCULAR AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION WITH ADVANCED VISUAL LOSS TREATED WITH ANTI-VASCULAR ENDOTHELIAL GROWTH FACTOR THERAPY: Clinical Outcome and Prognostic Indicators

PURPOSE To describe visual outcome and prognostic indicators in neovascular age-related macular degeneration with advanced visual loss at the initiation of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy. METHODS A retrospective chart review was performed on a consecutive series of 1,410 patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration treated with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy at the Medical College of Wisconsin. Subjects were included if at the initiation of therapy they had 20/200 or worse visual acuity (VA) with no other visually limiting eye disease and a minimum follow-up of 6 months. The change in VA at 6 months and 12 months was assessed compared with baseline. Visual improvement/worsening was defined as at least ± 0.3 logMAR (equivalent to 15 ETDRS [Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study] letters) change. Other factors for analysis included number of injections received, drug type, and various clinical and imaging findings. RESULTS One hundred thirty-one cases met the study criteria, and 97 were followed for 12 months. Baseline VA was 1.38 logMAR (20/480 Snellen equivalent). Mean VA change (logMAR) consisted of an improvement of 0.23 (P < 0.0001) at 6 months and 0.17 (P = 0.003) at 12 months. At 12 months, VA improved in 45% and worsened in 20%. Among subjects with baseline VA worse than 20/400, VA improved in 57% and worsened in 20%. On univariate analysis at either the 6 months or 12 months follow-up, visual improvement was associated with retinal hemorrhage (P = 0.03) and subretinal fluid (P = 0.02), whereas visual worsening was associated with retinal pigment epithelial detachment (P = 0.04) and intraretinal fluid (P = 0.01). With multivariate analysis, visual improvement was predicted by both a larger number of injections received (P = 0.001) and a poorer baseline VA (P = 0.001). Injection medication type did not influence outcome. CONCLUSION Statistically significant visual improvement was observed in association with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy in patients with severe neovascular age-related macular degeneration, even in patients whose initial VA was worse than that studied in large anti-vascular endothelial growth factor clinical trials. Numerous clinically discernable or potentially modifiable factors may influence outcome in such patients.
From Drug-Induced Developmental Neuroapoptosis to Pediatric Anesthetic Neurotoxicity—Where Are We Now?

The fetal and neonatal periods are critical and sensitive periods for neurodevelopment, and involve rapid brain growth in addition to natural programmed cell death (i.e., apoptosis) and synaptic pruning. Apoptosis is an important process for neurodevelopment, preventing redundant, faulty, or unused neurons from cluttering the developing brain. However, animal studies have shown massive neuronal cell death by apoptosis can also be caused by exposure to several classes of drugs, namely gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) agonists and N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) antagonists that are commonly used in pediatric anesthesia. This form of neurotoxic insult could cause a major disruption in brain development with the potential to permanently shape behavior and cognitive ability. Evidence does suggest that psychoactive drugs alter neurodevelopment and synaptic plasticity in the animal brain, which, in the human brain, may translate to permanent neurodevelopmental changes associated with long-term intellectual disability. This paper reviews the seminal animal research on drug-induced developmental apoptosis and the subsequent clinical studies that have been conducted thus far. In humans, there is growing evidence that suggests anesthetics have the potential to harm the developing brain, but the long-term outcome is not definitive and causality has not been determined. The consensus is that there is more work to be done using both animal models and human clinical studies.
An Engineering Model that Simulates Pantographing Occurring in the Shaping Process of Reinforced Uncured Rubber Parts

Abstract When a material volume consisting of an uncured rubber matrix reinforced with two non-parallel sets of embedded reinforcement wires or cords is subjected to large deformations, pantographing may occur. In other words, the angles between reinforcement wires change. We introduce a simple phenomenological fluid model suitable for the numerical prediction of pantographing, as can be encountered in industrial processes such as the manufacturing of rubber tires or reinforced hoses. The reinforced material is described with an orthotropic continuous fluid model. Here the reinforcement wires or cords are accounted for by the orthotropy, whose direction is locally affected by the deformation undergone by the matrix, and is updated accordingly. The model is subsequently applied to the simulation of a sagging experiment, where the role of pantographing is illustrated.
The injured heart: early cardiac effects of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in children and young adults

We hypothesized that subclinical cardiac injury in the peri-transplant period is more frequent than currently appreciated in children and young adults. We performed echocardiographic screening on 227 consecutive patients prior to hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), and 7, 30 and 100 days after transplant. We measured cardiac biomarkers cardiac troponin-I (cTn-I), and soluble suppressor of tumorigenicity 2 (sST2) prior to transplant, during conditioning, and days +7, +14, +28 and +49 in 26 patients. We subsequently analyzed levels of cTn-I every 48–72 h in 15 consecutive children during conditioning. Thirty-two percent (73/227) of patients had a new abnormality on echocardiogram. New left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD) occurred in 6.2% of subjects and new pericardial effusion in 27.3%. Eight of 227 (3.5%) patients underwent pericardial drain placement, and 5 (2.2%) received medical therapy for clinically occult LVSD. cTn-I was elevated in 53.0% of all samples and sST2 in 38.2%. At least one sample had a detectable cTn-I in 84.6% of patients and an elevated sST2 in 76.9%. Thirteen of fifteen patients monitored frequently during condition had elevation of cTn-I. Echocardiographic and biochemical abnormalities are frequent in the peri-HSCT period. Echocardiogram does not detect all subclinical cardiac injuries that may become clinically relevant over longer periods.
Describing wait time bottlenecks for ED patients undergoing head CT.

Abstract Study objectives Facing increased utilization and subsequent capacity and budget constraints, ED's must better understand bottlenecks and their effect on process flow to improve process efficiency. The primary objective of this study was to identify bottlenecks in obtaining a head CT and investigate patient waiting time based on those bottlenecks. Methods This observational study included all patients undergoing a head CT between July 1, 2013 and June 30, 2014 at a large, urban academic ED with over 100,000 visits per year. The primary study outcome was total cycle time, defined as the elapsed time between patient arrival and head CT preliminary report, divided into four components of workflow. Results 8312 patients who had a head CT were included in this study. The median cycle time from patient arrival to head CT preliminary report was 3 h and 13 min with 39 min of waiting time resulting from bottlenecks. In the 4-step model (time from patient arrival to head CT order, time from head CT order to head CT scheduled, time from head CT scheduled to head CT completed, and time from head CT completed to head CT preliminary report), each process was the bottleneck 30%, Conclusion Demand capacity mismatch in head CT scanning has a significant impact on patient waiting times. This study suggests opportunities to improve wait times through future research to understand the causes of delays in CT ordering, CT completion and timeliness of radiology reports.
Lecture 3: Attention

Like “intelligence”, “attention” is an intuitively appealing term that defies precise analysis. Some sort of concept of attention is needed to account for cognitive phenomena, since it is clear that people can improve some cognitive behaviours by focussing on them. Folk psychology assumes that some people do this better than others. The popular press has not hesitated to comment about the allegedly short attention span of some of our candidates for very high office. However experimental evidence for a dimension of individual variation in the ability to pay attention is not terribly strong. Is this because the ability does not exist or because the appropriate measurement procedures have not been defined ? To answer this question a closer look at the concept itself is needed.
Simultaneous control of spherical microrobots using catalytic and magnetic actuation

The ability to steer multiple microrobots in different directions in the same workplace has been an ongoing challenge for the field. In this paper we present a novel method of controlling multiple microrobots in the same workplace by combining their magnetic actuation with catalytic motion. We achieve motion differentiation through the use of paramagnetic microrobots which assume different magnetizations in the same field. This is combined with a catalytic cap which regulates the direction of motion of the microrobot. Independent motion and steering control is demonstrated for groups of one, two and three microrobots. Furthermore, the robustness of the system is demonstrated by attachment and detachment of two microrobots using a common magnetic field. This proposed method could be used for wide ranging applications in the fields of engineering, biology and medicine. Especially in the field of cargo and drug delivery, the ability to steer individual particles to user defined locations is very important and, in this paper, we demonstrate that an individual microrobot can be reliably steered to a user defined location.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome or IBS is characterized by chronic abdominal pain that is related to defecation and altered bowels. The disorder is better defined as altered gut-brain interaction than as a functional gastrointestinal (GI) disorder. When diagnosing IBS by the Rome criteria and not by exclusion through extensive testing, the accuracy of the diagnosis in 98%. Nonetheless, if the provider decides to proceed with testing and results are negative, one should try to refrain from statements such as “your pain is still an enigma” or “I could not find a GI source for your pain” as these statements lead to more unnecessary testing and increase patient’s anxiety. Rather, we need to spend time talking to the patient and discuss the different mechanisms that underlie the development of IBS. The first and most cardinal step in treating a patient with IBS relies on establishing a good doctor patient relationship and addressing patient’s concerns.
“Hidden Gem” in a Student Collection: First Record of the Leaf-Footed Bug Leptoglossus clypealis (Heteroptera: Coreidae) in Illinois

ABSTRACT: The leaf-footed bug Leptoglossus clypealis Heidemann, 1910 (Heteroptera: Coreidae: Coreinae: Anisoscelini) is reported for the first time from Illinois. The new record, based on a specimen submitted in a student insect collection, is corroborated by material in the Illinois Natural History Survey Insect Collection (INHS) and the Michigan State University Albert J. Cook Arthropod Research Collection (MSUC). Together, these records constitute the easternmost for the species in the United States. Supplementing this note is the first Illinoisan record of Leptoglossus phyllopus (Linnaeus, 1767), based on material in the INHS, as well as a dichotomous key to the seven Illinoisan species of Coreidae with a distinctive “leaf-foot.”
Towards a universal influenza vaccine: different approaches for one goal

Influenza virus infection is an ongoing health and economic burden causing epidemics with pandemic potential, affecting 5–30% of the global population annually, and is responsible for millions of hospitalizations and thousands of deaths each year. Annual influenza vaccination is the primary prophylactic countermeasure aimed at limiting influenza burden. However, the effectiveness of current influenza vaccines are limited because they only confer protective immunity when there is antigenic similarity between the selected vaccine strains and circulating influenza isolates. The major targets of the antibody response against influenza virus are the surface glycoprotein antigens hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). Hypervariability of the amino acid sequences encoding HA and NA is largely responsible for epidemic and pandemic influenza outbreaks, and are the consequence of antigenic drift or shift, respectively. For this reason, if an antigenic mismatch exists between the current vaccine and circulating influenza isolates, vaccinated people may not be afforded complete protection. There is currently an unmet need to develop an effective “broadly-reactive” or “universal” influenza vaccine capable of conferring protection against both seasonal and newly emerging pre-pandemic strains. A number of novel influenza vaccine approaches are currently under evaluation. One approach is the elicitation of an immune response against the “Achille’s heel” of the virus, i.e. conserved viral proteins or protein regions shared amongst seasonal and pre-pandemic strains. Alternatively, other approaches aim toward eliciting a broader immune response capable of conferring protection against the diversity of currently circulating seasonal influenza strains. In this review, the most promising under-development universal vaccine approaches are discussed with an emphasis on those targeting the HA glycoprotein. In particular, their strengths and potential short-comings are discussed. Ultimately, the upcoming clinical evaluation of these universal vaccine approaches will be fundamental to determine their effectiveness against preventing influenza virus infection and/or reducing transmission and disease severity.
Crossan on the Couch, Along with the Rest of Us: Part One: The Silhouette of a Jesus Scholar from the Perspective of Psychological Realism as Developed by Hal Childs

This article is the first of two by the present author exploring Hal Childs' path-breaking book, The Myth of the Historical Jesus and the Evolution of Consciousness. Its purpose is to elaborate on Childs' analysis of “historical Jesus research” from the perspective of psychological realism. Childs uses the extensive corpus of John Dominic Crossan as a case study on historical Jesus research, advancing the claim that as an historian, Crossan is a “closet positivist.” Examining the roots of positivism in the thought of Rene Descartes in the seventeenth century, the article sets forth the theoretical objections Childs raises to Crossan's approach, using the resources of contemporary historiography, the analytical psychology of C. G. Jung, and the phenomenology of Martin Heidegger. The article concludes with a hint of Childs' proposal of a new paradigm for a psychologically realistic approach to the search for the historical Jesus.
Electrophysiology and Photomovement of Stentor

As first reported by Jennings (1906) and Mast (1906) Stentor coeruleus swims away from light sources (photodispersal) and collects in the more shaded areas of an unevenly illuminated container. Stentor are sensitive to light because they contain a pigment called stentorin (Moller, 1962; Walker et al., 1979), which releases H+ ions as a result of light absorption (Walker et al., 1981). This rapid proton release is thought to be an initial step in a series of steps which eventuate in photodispersal (Song et al., 1983). This paper summarizes the available evidence describing some of these intervening processes and the physiological mechanisms producing them.
Giving and Receiving Effective Feedback: A Review Article and How-To Guide.

Context.— Feedback is the delivery of information based on direct observation that is meant to improve performance. Learning is at the heart of feedback, and as such, feedback is a required compete...
Synthesis of the (S,S,S)-diastereomer of the 15-membered biaryl ring system of RP 66453

The synthesis of the 15-membered biaryl ring system constituting an appropriately functionalized AB ring system of RP 66453 is detailed.
Antecedent and Outcome of Public Employee Accountability: Two Empirical Studies

Holding public employees to feel accountable for their actions has been emphasized as it can significantly affect work outcomes for public organizations. However, compared to theoretical arguments,...
Harnessing Wise Interventions to Advance the Potency and Reach of Youth Mental Health Services.

Despite progress in research on evidence-based treatments (EBTs) for youth psychopathology, many youths with mental health needs do not receive services, and EBTs are not always effective for those who access them. Wise interventions (WIs) may help address needs for more disseminable, potent youth mental health interventions. WIs are single-component, social–psychological interventions designed to foster adaptive meaning-making. They have improved health-related and interpersonal youth outcomes, yet their potential to reduce youth psychopathology has not been systematically explored. Accordingly, we conducted a systematic, descriptive review characterizing WIs’ potential to reduce youth mental health problems. Across 25 RCTs (N = 9219 youths, ages 11–19) testing 13 intervention types, 7 WIs qualified as “Well-Established,” “Probably Efficacious,” or “Possibly Efficacious” for reducing one or more types of youth psychopathology, relative to controls. Among these, 5 WIs significantly reduced youth depressive symptoms; 3, general psychological distress; and 1 each, eating problems, anxiety, and substance use. Three of these 7 WIs were self-administered by youths, and four by trained interventionists; collectively, they were 30–168 min in length and targeted clinic-referred and non-referred samples in clinical, school, and laboratory settings. Overall, certain WIs show promise in reducing mild-to-severe youth psychopathology. Given their brevity and low cost relative to traditional (i.e., therapist-delivered, 12- to 16-week, clinic-based) EBTs, WIs may represent beneficial additions to the youth mental healthcare ecosystem. Priorities for future research are proposed, including testing WIs for parents, younger children, and externalizing problems; as EBT adjuncts; and in schools and primary care clinics to increase access to brief, effective supports.
The Development of Creativity

This article discusses the important scholarly contributions to our understandings of creativity, education, and the arts. I describe many important contributions, beginning with Dr. Ellen Winner’s...
Whole exome sequencing identifies c.963T > A and c.492 + 1G > A mutations in REN responsible for autosomal recessive renal tubular dysgenesis

This study was aimed to identify the potentially pathogenic gene variants that contribute to the etiology of the autosomal recessive renal tubular dysgenesis (RTD) in the aborted fetus.Illumina inf...
Percutaneous Retrieval of a Watchman Device from the Left Ventricle Using a Transarterial Approach.

AbstractLeft atrial appendage closure device embolization is a rare yet serious complication. The location of the embolized device is a major determinant of the retrieval approach, percutaneous or ...
Interventional Musculoskeletal Ultrasound

Rather than try and perform a comprehensive review of ultrasound-guided musculoskeletal intervention, this article is arranged to focus on specific topics by revisiting and discussing the practical ways of improving the commonly performed procedures including the treatment of De Quervain’s tenosynovitis and calcific tendinopathy in addition to addressing recent and newly developed procedures such as platelet-rich protein and ultrasound-guided nerve ablation.