cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of select heat and pressure measurement gauges for potential use in the NRC/OECD High Energy Arc Fault (HEAF) test program.

In an effort to improve the current state of the art in fire probabilistic risk assessment methodology, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Office of Regulatory Research, contracted Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) to conduct a series of scoping tests to identify thermal and mechanical probes that could be used to characterize the zone of influence (ZOI) during high energy arc fault (HEAF) testing. For the thermal evaluation, passive and active probes were exposed to HEAF-like heat fluxes for a period of 2 seconds at the SNL s National Solar Thermal Test Facility to determine their ability to survive and measure such an extreme environment. Thermal probes tested included temperature lacquers (passive), NANMAC thermocouples, directional flame thermometers, modified plate thermometers, infrared temperature sensors, and a Gardon heat flux gauge. Similarly, passive and active pressure probes were evaluated by exposing them to pressures resulting from various high-explosive detonations at the Sandia Terminal Ballistic Facility. Pressure probes included bikini pressure gauges (passive) and pressure transducers. Results from these tests provided good insight to determine which probes should be considered for use during future HEAF testing.
THE ACADEMY UNDER SIEGE: An Outline of Problems and Strategies

This special issue of Sociological Perspectives has focused attention on a series of difficulties the academy has experienced in the 1990s. What can be done? Among other strategies, the faculty can form alliances with professional organizations, students, and the legislature. This article details the various ways these three groups can assist the fac- ulty in addressing common problems of all four groups. The professional organizations can assist, for example, by helping publicize problems such as attacks on tenure and departmental eliminations, as well as issue official reports and provide legal aid when necessary; students can help by orga- nizing voter registration campaigns to support legislators favorable to higher education, as well as indicate the students' public supportfor proper fundingfor higher education; and the legislature can help by passing laws strengthening higher education against the serious challenges well docu- mented in these pages, as well as provide properfundingfor higher educa- tion.
Enhancing attention and memory during video-recorded lectures.

Lectures have long been a staple of various kinds of instruction, and constitute a component of most online learning platforms. Systematic research has begun to examine how to enhance lecture learning in traditional classroom settings and in online education. This article provides a conceptual framework for thinking about attention and memory during video-recorded lectures, particularly as related to online learning, that builds on 3 key claims: (a) online learning can be conceived as a type of self-regulated learning, (b) mind wandering reflects a failure of executive control that can impair learning from lectures, and (c) providing intermittent tests or quizzes can benefit attention and learning. We then summarize recent studies based on this framework that examine the effects of interpolating brief quizzes in a video-recorded lecture. These studies reveal that interpolated quizzing during a video-recorded lecture reduces mind wandering, increases taskrelevant behaviors such as note taking, boosts learning, and also improves calibration between predicted and actual performance. We conclude by discussing recommendations, open questions, and future research directions.
Hawk Mountain: A Conservation Success Story

Book review of "Hawk Mountain: A Conservation Success Story" by James J. Brett and Keith L. Bildstein.
CONDITIONS POSSESSING A GLOBAL SMOOTH SOLUTION FOR FIRST ORDER QUASILINEAR NONHOMOGEOUS PARTIAL DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS

Let us suppose that f(t,x,u)or f(t,u)Satisfies a conditions in a lemma,λ(t,x,u) and (?)(x) are Continous and differentiable for a variabe,and(λ(t,x,u)≤M(1+|x|+|u|),where M is constant,(?)(x)is bounded for arbitrary T0,in〔O,T〕,|x|∞,|u|∞。We obtain the following main results:Theorem1 If λ_uf_x≥0,λ_u(?)/((?)η)≥0,λ_u≠0,then the Cauchy Problem(1.1)(1.2)possesses a global Smooth solution。Theorem2 The Cauchy problem(2.1)、(2.2)possesses a global smooth sol-ution if and only ifΔ=I+T_r{integral from 0 to tX_η~(-1)(τ,η)λ_u(τ,x(τ,η,(?)(η)),u(τ,η,(?)(η))e~(integral from (?) to τf_udτ′)(?)/((?)η)dτ}0for (?)η∈R~n。Theorem3 The Cauchy problem(3.1)、(3.2)possesses a global smooth solu-tion if anb only ifdet{I+integral from 0 to tX_η~(-1)λ_u(?)/(?)ηe~(integral from (?) to τf_udτ′dτ0,for (?)η∈R~(?)。
Assisting Transfer-Enabled Machine Learning Algorithms: Leveraging Human Knowledge for Curriculum Design.

Transfer learning is a successful technique that significantly improves machine learning algorithms by training on a sequence of tasks rather than a single task in isolation. However, there is currently no systematic method for deciding how to construct such a sequence of tasks. In this paper, I propose that while humans are well-suited for the task of curriculum development, significant research is still necessary to better understand how to create effective curricula for machine learning algorithms.
Integrated BaTiO3 modulator with 8 dB extinction at 50 GHz and 25 km reach

We demonstrate the high frequency and long-reach performance of a compact modulator using thin film BaTiO3. An extinction of 12 dB is measured at 25 GHz for 2.2 Vpp operation through a 25 km fiber with 8 dB extinction at 50 GHz for 9.1 Vpp.
RAHAB, ESTHER, AND JUDITH AS MODELS FOR CHURCH LEADERSHIP IN 1 CLEMENT

Several powerful women receive praise in 1 Clement . Clement introduces women into the historical survey known from Hebrews. He compares female martyrs with apostles, and he adduces Esther and Judith with foreign kings. I argue that Clement’s validation of the prayer and prophecy of figures such as Esther and Judith indicates that Clement is not opposed to female leadership, and, indeed, Clement does not forbid women from office in his discussion of the leadership structures of the Corinthian church. Clement’s concerns may be connected to the contemporary movement from temporary ecclesial offices to less democratic, permanent priesthoods in Roman Greece. Roman control of Greece increased the importance of belonging to the Greek aristocracy. Corinthian Christian support for democratically elected leaders could be the impetus for Clement’s letter. Arguing against Roman Greek priestesses and Christian female leaders on account of their sex is not part of Clement’s project. We have no evidence from 1 Clement that the letter, which refers to the Pauline correspondence with churches of Corinth, knows of and adheres to the injunction against female public speech in the Pastoral Stratum of 1 Corinthians 14:34‒35.
Measurement of androstanediol in plasma in a radioimmunoassay using celite column chromatography.

A rapid and relatively simple, but specific, radioimmunoassay for the potent androgen, androstanediol (3α-diol), is described. Despite the availability of a nonspecific C-19 androgen antibody requiring a 17β-hydroxy group, androstanediol can be measured in plasma by prior purification of a plasma solvent extract using a Celite microcolumn. Values obtained do not differ from those previously reported using more complicated chromatographic techniques.
O26-2 Assessment of the healthy worker survivor effect in the united autoworkers-general motors cohort

Objective In a cohort study of respiratory cancer incidence and metalworking fluids (MWF) exposure, we assessed the potential for bias due to the Healthy Worker Survivor Effect (HWSE). HWSE exists if underlying health status is a time-varying confounder affected by prior exposure. Using employment status as a proxy for health status, HWSE depends on the presence of three underlying associations: (1) prior exposure and employment status, (2) employment status and future exposure, and (3) employment status and risk of the outcome. Since occupational exposure is necessarily zero after employment termination, (2) is satisfied. We assessed the presence of (1) and (3) in a cohort of Michigan autoworkers. Methods The study population included 27,841 male hourly workers from three automobile manufacturing plants with potential exposure to MWF. Workers were hired between January 1, 1938 and December 31, 1982 and employed for a minimum of 3 years. Cancer incidence follow-up began in 1985. Cox proportional hazards models for employment termination and for the outcomes, lung and laryngeal cancer incidence, were used to assess associations (1) and (3), respectively. All models were adjusted for age (as the time metric), race, plant, calendar year, year of hire, and duration of employment. Results Cumulative exposures to straight, soluble, and synthetic MWF were each associated with employment termination, adjusting for the other two exposures. Employment termination status was associated with higher incidence of lung cancer: HR = 1.46 (95% CI: 1.03, 2.08). Results for laryngeal cancer incidence were less conclusive: HR = 1.05 (95% CI: 0.48, 2.32). Conclusions For studying lung cancer, documentation of employment status as a time-varying confounder affected by prior exposure indicates that we must use alternative methods to avoid bias by HWSE. By contrast, leaving work was not clearly associated with risk of laryngeal cancer. In the absence of evidence of HWSE, standard methods may be unbiased.
IMRT for Carcinomas of the Oropharynx and Oral Cavity

The major potential advantages of IMRT have been addressed in a number of preliminary clinical investigations/trials which have generated encouraging results that salivary gland sparing can be achieved with improvements in xerostomia without risking increased failure rates. Dose escalation trials, although documenting the potential of IMRT as a tool for dose escalation, require refinement and intense physician involvement but have produced encouraging loco-regional tumor control rates. Finally, the ability of generating plans with outstanding dose conformality in the radiotherapeutic management of HNSCCs of the OP/(OC) has been clearly established.
Photophysical Properties and Electronic Structure of Porphyrins Bearing Zero to Four meso-Phenyl Substituents: New Insights into Seemingly Well Understood Tetrapyrroles.

Six free base porphyrins bearing 0–4 meso substituents have been examined by steady-state and time-resolved absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy in both toluene and N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF). The lifetime of the lowest singlet excited state (S1) decreases with an increase in the number of meso-phenyl groups; the values in toluene are H2P-0 (15.5 ns) > H2P-1 (14.9 ns) > H2P-2c (14.4 ns) > H2P-2t (13.8 ns) ∼ H2P-3 (13.8 ns) > H2P-4 (12.8 ns), where “H2P” refers to the core free base porphyrin, the numerical suffix indicates the number of meso-phenyl groups, and “c” and “t” refer to cis and trans, respectively. The opposite trend is found for the fluorescence quantum yield; the values in toluene are H2P-0 (0.049) < H2P-1 (0.063) ∼ H2P-2c (0.063) < H2P-2t (0.071) < H2P-3 (0.073) < H2P-4 (0.090). Similar trends occur in DMF. All radiative and nonradiative (internal conversion and intersystem crossing) rate constants for S1 decay increase with the increasing number of meso-phenyl groups. The increase in t...
Analysis of the t(2;5)(p23;q35) translocation by reverse transcription- polymerase chain reaction in CD30+ anaplastic large-cell lymphomas, in other non-Hodgkin's lymphomas of T-cell phenotype, and in Hodgkin's disease

The t(2;5)(p23;q35) translocation is associated with a high percentage of anaplastic large-cell lymphomas (ALCL) of T- or null-cell phenotype. This translocation was recently cloned and results in the fusion of the nucleophosmin gene (NPM) on chromosome 5q35 to a novel tyrosine kinase- encoding gene designated anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) on chromosome 2p23. Using a sensitive and specific reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay to detect the NPM/ALK fusion transcript, we assessed the involvement of NPM/ALK in a series of histologically and immunohistochemically confirmed ALCL, in non-ALCL aggressive non- Hodgkin's lymphomas of T-cell phenotype, and in Hodgkin's disease (HD) to better define the morphologic spectrum of disease associated with this translocation. Twenty-four cases of ALCL were selected on the basis of CD30 positivity and histologic features. Seventeen cases presented as classical nodal and extranodal disease, four cases presented as primary cutaneous disease, and three were associated with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. As ALCL may show overlapping histology with both HD and other aggressive non-Hodgkin's lymphomas, particularly of T-cell phenotype (T-NHL), we also studied 34 cases of HD and 19 of T-NHL. NPM/ALK chimeric transcripts of identical size were detected in 11 of the 24 (46%) cases of ALCL. NPM/ALK fusion transcripts were found in 11 of 17 (65%) classical ALCL cases but were not detected in the four primary cutaneous cases of ALCL or in the three HIV-related ALCL cases. In addition, NPM/ALK transcripts were not detected in any of the 34 cases of HD or in the 19 cases of T-NHL. These data indicate that NPM/ALK fusion transcripts occur in a high percentage of classical nodal ALCL (65%). In addition, these data strongly suggest that ALCL, as defined in this study, is not pathogenetically related to either HD disease or the majority of other types of aggressive T-NHL. This is a US government work. There are no restrictions on its use.
Super-Users at an Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Teaching Clinic: Demographics and Unique Clinical Characteristics.

Abstract Objective: The use of acupuncture in the United States has consistently grown over the last two decades, and the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health has recently called for greater understanding of “real life outcomes and use” by complementary and alternative medicine users. This study assesses the demographics and utilization patterns of “super-users” treated at the Oregon College of Oriental Medicine intern clinic. Methods: This was a retrospective chart review at the Oregon College of Oriental Medicine (OCOM) intern clinic, a large acupuncture and oriental medicine (AOM) school in Portland, Oregon. Participants were patients who were treated 100+ times at the OCOM between August 6, 2002, and 2012. The outcome measures were demographic and treatment characteristics, including sex, age, chief complaint, income, medication use, and visit patterns. Results: The super-user cohort comprised approximately 1.5% of the total annual patient population and 8% of total visits at the O...
Association between secondhand smoke and obesity and glucose abnormalities: data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES 1999–2010)

Objective The objective of this study is to investigate the relationship between cotinine level-confirmed secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure and glycemic parameters and obesity. Research design and methods We examined a cohort of 6472 adults from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys, 1999–2010. Serum cotinine levels and self-reported data on smoking were used to determine smoking status. The outcome variables were body mass index (BMI) and glycemic status (HbA1c), Homeostasis Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR), and fasting plasma glucose (FPG). Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate analyses were conducted. Results Using cotinine level-confirmed smoking status, 1794 (27.4%) of the sample were current smokers, 1681 (25.0%) were former smokers, 1158 (17.8%) were secondhand smokers, and 1839 (29.8%) were non-smokers. In a generalized linear model after controlling for potential confounding variables, secondhand smokers had higher adjusted levels of HOMA-IR, FPG, and BMI compared with non-smokers (p Conclusions We conclude that SHS is associated with obesity and worsening glycemic parameters. More studies are needed to show a causal relationship between SHS and glycemic parameters and to understand the mechanisms involved in the association.
EvoGraph: On-the-Fly Efficient Mining of Evolving Graphs on GPU

With the prevalence of the World Wide Web and social networks, there has been a growing interest in high performance analytics for constantly-evolving dynamic graphs. Modern GPUs provide massive amount of parallelism for efficient graph processing, but the challenges remain due to their lack of support for the near real-time streaming nature of dynamic graphs. Specifically, due to the current high volume and velocity of graph data combined with the complexity of user queries, traditional processing methods by first storing the updates and then repeatedly running static graph analytics on a sequence of versions or snapshots are deemed undesirable and computational infeasible on GPU. We present EvoGraph, a highly efficient and scalable GPU-based dynamic graph analytics framework that incrementally processes graphs on-the-fly using fixed-sized batches of updates. The runtime realizes this vision with a user friendly programming model, along with a vertex property-based optimization to choose between static and incremental execution; and efficient utilization of all hardware resources using GPU streams, including its computational and data movement engines. Extensive experimental evaluations for a wide variety of graph inputs and algorithms demonstrate that EvoGraph achieves up to 429 million updates/sec and over 232x speedup compared to the competing frameworks such as STINGER.
Challenges and Solutions with Alignment and Enrichment of Word Embedding Models

Word embedding models offer continuous vector representations that can capture rich semantics of word co-occurrence patterns. Although these models have improved the state-of-the-art on a number of nlp tasks, many open research questions remain. We study the semantic consistency and alignment of these models and show that their local properties are sensitive to even slight variations in the training datasets and parameters. We propose a solution that improves alignment of different word embedding models by leveraging carefully generated synthetic data points. Our approach leads to substantial improvements in recovering consistent and richer embeddings of local semantics.
Race, Offense Type, and Suicide Ideation: Tests of the Interpersonal-Psychological Theory in Juvenile Offenders

This study evaluated the synergy hypothesis of the Interpersonal-Psychological Theory of Suicide (IPTS), which argues thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness are positively interactive in their association with suicide ideation, in a group of juvenile offenders. It also examined whether this prediction is differentially applicable across race/ethnicity or offense type. Participants included 590 adjudicated and confined male juveniles. Regression was used to test the association between suicide ideation and thwarted belongingness, perceived burdensomeness, and their interaction term. Subsequent analyses included tests of group interactions related to race/ethnicity and offense type. No interaction between thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness was observed, despite adequate power. No significant group interactions were observed for race/ethnicity or offense type. However, results did show significant linear relationships between thwarted belongingness, perceived burdensomeness, and ideation, highlighting their potential utility as intervention targets in this at-risk population. Thus, although the current results are the first to show the basic IPTS risk factors generalize across race/ethnicity and offense type, they also failed to support that those factors were interactive, a primary IPTS claim. The absence of an interaction between thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness suggests their role in suicide ideation for juvenile offenders may be more parsimonious than the IPTS proposes.
Pavitra Hindu homes: producing sacred purity in domestic diasporic settings

The article examines the Hindu term pavitratā in relation to home shrines of newly arrived immigrants from India living in the United States. Respectful honouring of god’s pavitratā (sacredness) an...
Closed incision negative pressure therapy decreases complications after periprosthetic fracture surgery around the hip and knee.

Abstract Introduction Periprosthetic fractures (PPFXs) are becoming increasingly common following total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Patients sustaining PPFXs face considerable perioperative morbidity, with relatively increased rates of surgical site infection. We sought to evaluate the efficacy of closed-incision negative-pressure wound therapy (ciNPT) in decreasing perioperative wound complications following lower extremity periprosthetic fracture surgery. Methods We performed a retrospective review of 69 consecutive patients who underwent surgery to address lower extremity periprosthetic fractures around hip or knee implants performed over a 6.5-year period. The population was divided into two groups based on the surgical dressing used at the conclusion of the procedure: (1) a sterile, antimicrobial hydrofiber dressing, or (2) ciNPT. There were no baseline demographic differences between the two groups. Rates of wound complications, surgical site infection, and reoperation related to the surgical site were compared between groups. Continuous variables were analyzed using a student’s t-test, and categorical variables using either chi-square or fisher’s exact test. Results Patients treated with ciNPT developed fewer wound complications (4% vs. 35%; p = 0.002), fewer deep infections (0% vs. 25%; p = 0.004), and underwent fewer reoperations related to the surgical site (4% vs. 25%; p = 0.021) compared to patients treated with standard of care. Conclusions Our findings suggest that ciNPT may reduce wound complications, SSIs, and reoperations in patients undergoing lower extremity periprosthetic fracture surgery. This is the first study to investigate ciNPT as a treatment for periprosthetic fracture surgery, and has the potential to change the postoperative management of these patients.
Conservative management of trigger finger: A systematic review

Abstract Study Design Systematic review Introduction Trigger finger (TF) is a common condition in the hand. The primary purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate the current evidence to determine the efficacy of orthotic management of TF. A secondary purpose was to identify the characteristics of the orthotic management. The tertiary purpose of this study was to ascertain if the studies used a patient-reported outcome to assess gains from the patient's perspective. Methods All studies including randomized controlled trials, prospective, and retrospective cohort studies were included in this review due to limited high-level evidence. Results Four authors demonstrated moderate to large effect sizes ranging from 0.49 to 1.99 for pain reduction after wearing an orthotic device. Two authors demonstrated a change in the stages of stenosing tenosynovitis scale scores showing a clinically important change with a large effect size ranging from 0.97 to 1.63. Seven authors immobilized a single joint of the affected digit using a variety of orthoses. Conclusion All authors reported similar results regardless of the joint immobilized; therefore for orthotic management of the TF, we recommend a sole joint be immobilized for 6-10 weeks. In assessing TF, most authors focused on body structures and functions including pain and triggering symptoms, 2 authors used a validated functional outcome measure. In the future therapists should use a validated patient report outcome to assess patient function that is sensitive to change in patients with TF. Furthermore, more randomized controlled trials are needed.
Control Systems Under Attack: The Securable and Unsecurable Subspaces of a Linear Stochastic System

The ideas of controllable and unobservable subspaces of a linear dynamical system introduced by Kalman play a central role in the theory of control systems. They determine, among other aspects, the existence of solutions to many control problems of interest. Analogous to the notions of controllable and unobservable subspaces are the notions of “securable” and “unsecurable” subspace of a linear dynamical system, which have operational significance in the context of secure control. We examine what guarantees can be provided with respect to securable subspace, especially in the case when there is process noise in the system.
MatLab tutorial for scientific and engineering computations: International Federation of Nonlinear Analysts (IFNA); 2008 World Congress of Nonlinear Analysts (WCNA)

Abstract The computing scenario over centuries/millenniums has been changing based on the tools/power of tools–often innovative–available to mankind. We discuss here in tutorial form various features of MatLab and their usage to solve problems. MatLab is one of the most widely used, very high level programming languages for scientific and engineering computations. It is very user-friendly and needs practically no formal programming knowledge. Presented here are MatLab programming aspects and not just the MatLab commands for scientists and engineers who do not have formal programming training and also have no significant time to spare for learning programming to solve their real world problems. Specifically provided are programs for visualization. Also, stated are the current limitations of the MatLab, which possibly can be taken care of by Mathworks Inc. in a future version to make MatLab more versatile.
Measuring Interfacial Roughness by Polarized Optical Scattering

Optical scattering measurements are extremely sensitive for locating and characterizing defects, contamination, and roughness on smooth surfaces. Its sensitive, high-throughput, and nondestructive nature has made optical scattering the preferred method for inspecting many materials whose surfaces must be pristine before manufacturing devices on them, such as polished silicon for the semiconductor microelectronics industry, substrates for magnetic storage media, and glass used for information display systems.1 Optical scattering often limits the performance of optics, such as those used for satellite telescopes or ring-laser gyroscopes. Understanding and being able to measure roughness can aid manufacturers in developing these materials. Lastly, the morphology of thin films is determined by the mechanisms of film growth and the interactions between the interfaces, and measurements of the relative roughness and correlation between the interfaces can yield significant information about the underlying physics in these systems.2
Controlled delivery of therapeutics from microporous membranes: I. Fabrication and characterization of microporous polyurethane membranes containing polymeric microspheres

This paper describes a process for the inclusion of polymer microspheres in microporous polyurethane tubes and membranes. These composites were fabricated via a spray, phase-inversion technique using Cardiothane 51, a medical grade polyurethane, and either spray-dried poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide 50:50) microspheres or commercially available fluorescent polystyrene-latex microspheres. Characterization of the polyurethane membranes was performed using Fouriertransform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, dynamic mechanical analysis, hydraulic permeability testing, scanning electron microscopy, and visible and fluorescence light microscopy. The results indicated the feasibility of layering microspheres throughout the microporous membrane or wall of the microporous tube, and the potential of such composite structures for local delivery of bioactive substances.
Thyroid Disease, Genetic Factors in

The thyroid is a highly specialized endocrine gland, with the main function of producing thyroid hormones. It can be affected by several disorders, which either affect the process of hormone production or are neoplastic in nature, benign or malignant. In many of these disorders, a genetic predisposition has been recognized and studied. This article discusses the current knowledge on the heritability of thyroid disorders and the underlying genetic mechanisms.
Transactional Perspectives on Occupation: An Introduction and Rationale

In this introductory chapter, we begin by offering a rationale for the book’s value. We suggest that the transactional perspectives articulated throughout this book both implicitly and explicitly suggest that occupations are forms of activity that create and re-create a multitude of our relationships with the worlds we experience. We thereby argue the book’s interest to readers who are already interested in transactional perspectives on occupation, those from occupational therapy or science who want to learn what the perspectives are about, and those from other disciplines who work either on subjects related to the study of occupation or in fields where a transactional perspective may be beneficial. We then connect the development of transactional perspectives from the early works of John Dewey to more recent efforts in occupational science. In doing so, a brief orientation to the concepts that hold the perspective together is provided. We then suggest how the contributions to follow signify a pluralistic approach to the transactional perspective before explaining the structure and content of the chapters to follow.
Defining Hypertension by Blood Pressure 130/80 mm Hg Leads to an Impressive Burden of Hypertension in Young and Middle-Aged Black Adults: Follow-Up in the CARDIA Study.

Hypertension is a major contributor to a greater cardiovascular and renal disease burden among blacks than whites.[1][1] The racial disparities are greatest in younger adults and decline with advancing age.[2][2] The article in this issue of the Journal of the American Heart Association (JAHA) by
Global Dynamics and Local Synchrony: Therapeutic Prospects for Implant Learning Devices

Improved medical care has significantly increased life expectancies, yet has also produced a growing population at risk for cognitive impairment, especially memory and learning deficits. Strategies to repair lost function traditionally resort to neurotechnology, but have been unsuccessful for cognitive functions like memory due to the considerably more complex physiology of brain tissue. Improved understanding of memory and learning is now stimulating interest in devices that can diagnose or repair impaired function; their design, however, will need to address how global mechanisms that elicit memory or learning neural activity are affected. Extensive research shows that the brain's global, executive mechanisms evoke dynamic oscillating activity that coordinates information transfer with memory circuits through synchronized oscillation, complicating the design of neurotechnologies that can selectively intervene. This paper explores the theoretical possibility for selective intervention in memory/learning circuits on the presupposition that synchronization is mediated through weakly coupled oscillation, the most widely acknowledged model for cognitive information transfer. Based on this model, the paper shows that selective synchronization with a therapeutic device is possible; however, a limited impact on executive circuits is also likely. Additionally, the paper reveals several previously unknown regulatory, dynamical features, including coupling strength modulation that sustains information transfer at lower coupling levels and noise mediated phase broadening that enhances flexibility in oscillatory control.
Effects on Fatty Acid Metabolism of a New Powdered Human Milk Fortifier Containing Medium-Chain Triacylglycerols and Docosahexaenoic Acid in Preterm Infants.

Billeaud and co-authors recently described the effects of a new middle-chain fatty acid and docosahexaenoic acid enriched breast milk fortifier to improve preterm infants’ lipid nutrition [1] [...]
Improving Collection Maintenance through Innovation: BarCode Labeling to Track Specimens in the Processing Stream

In the 1980's, barcode labeling (computer readable symbols) and database management systems (DBMS) were adopted to manage inventory and sales for commercial businesses. The advantages of barcode la...
Consumption Behavior Prediction Using Hierarchical Bayesian Frameworks

Purchasing products, listening to music, visiting locations in physical or virtual environments are examples of applications where users can interact with a large set of items. In this context, making predictions for both previously-consumed and new items for an individual, rather than just recommending new items, is significant in many situations. A recent work has shown that a mixture of Multinomials outperforms the widely-used matrix factorization. We further investigate this problem and propose the use of alternative mixtures based on hierarchical Bayesian frameworks to better balance individual preferences in terms of exploitation and exploration. We evaluate the alternative models accuracy in user consumption predictions using several real-world datasets, and show their efficiency for this problem.
Delay-Tolerant Adaptive Robust Tracking Control of Uncertain Time-Delay Systems

The simultaneous presence of parameter variations, time-varying disturbances, and delay in the control loop of an $n{\text{th}}$ -order (possibly unstable) dynamical system makes formal tracking control design difficult. Existing model-based control methodologies can handle only a subset of the above-mentioned complexities, and hence, become insufficient to accurately track the desired trajectory. In this paper, a prediction-based adaptive robust control framework is proposed for high performance control of dynamical systems subject to the above-mentioned complexities, which involves the following. First, prediction-based projection-type adaptation laws with model compensation to reduce the effect of parameter uncertainties under delay and time-varying disturbances. Second, a robust prediction scheme that factors in both unknown parameters and disturbance uncertainties under delay to handle the resulting unmatched disturbances. Third, prediction-based continuous robust feedback to attenuate the cumulative effect of disturbance terms due to uncertain prediction. The controller guarantees semiglobal, exponential convergence of the tracking error with an ultimate error bound proportional to delay, disturbance, and controller gain. The controller effectiveness is demonstrated with an illustrative flight control example and compared with the baseline adaptive robust controller.
Variations in Naturalization Premiums by Country of Origin

This study uses the 2013–2017 American Community Survey to explore differences in the returns to obtaining US citizenship for immigrants from the four largest source countries relative to all other immigrants. We find that Chinese, Mexican, and Filipino immigrants face a wage penalty prior to naturalization, while Indian immigrants experience higher wages than other immigrants. Naturalization more than offsets the wage penalty for Chinese and Filipino immigrants and partially offsets the wage penalty for Mexican immigrants. However, naturalized Indian immigrants earn less than non-naturalized Indian immigrants. We find only limited evidence of a naturalization premium for immigrants from other countries.
Class War, USA: Dispatches from Workers’ Struggles in American History

As its subtitle indicates, Brandon Weber’s Class War, USA is a series of 25 brief “Dispatches from Workers’ Struggles in American History.” It begins with the fight of the Lowell, Massachusetts “mi...
Risk and protective factors contributing to homelessness among foster care youth: An analysis of the National Youth in Transition Database

Abstract Homelessness is a pervasive problem among youth aging out of the foster care system. Many of these youth exit the system without any concrete plans for their future and wind up suffering bouts of homelessness. Although a growing body of literature has begun to look at the factors that contribute to homelessness among this population, less has been written about the factors that guard against homelessness. Furthermore, most of the studies have been confined to a particular geographic area. Using data from the National Youth in Transition Database (NYTD), combined with the Adoption and Foster Care Analysis Reporting System (AFCARS), the present study provides an analysis of the risk and protective factors contributing to homelessness among a nationwide sample of foster care youth at age 21, 29% of whom had experienced homelessness. The findings indicate that the strongest protective factors against homelessness were having a connection to an adult and remaining in foster care until age 21. Other protective factors included having at least a high school education, being currently enrolled in school, and having a full-time job. On the other hand, the strongest risk factors contributing to homelessness were having been incarcerated, as well as having been referred for substance abuse. Other significant risk factors were having a runaway history, having received public food assistance, and being emotionally disturbed. Given these findings, child welfare agencies should make greater efforts to ensure that youth have an adult in their life whom they can trust and turn to for help, as well as encourage youth to remain in care until they are better prepared for life on their own.
Psychotherapy, revelation, science, and deep thinking.

Psychodynamic psychotherapy has evolved in the 30 years since John Nemiah was the author's mentor in the endeavor. It has always occupied an epistemologic position somewhere between the scientific standard of physics and the postmodern or poststructuralist view that the search for truth using language is totally futile. However, the awkward niche that psychotherapeutic practice occupies is closer to literary imagination than "hard science." The use of such imagination was presented 25 years ago by John Nemiah in his paper on "Deep Thinking." The poet's "revelation ... not discovered by the rational intellect alone" often imparts in psychotherapeutic practice a compelling urgency toward a previously unrealized choice. Such vision is, however, always located at the periphery of acceptable scientific theory. Psychotherapists persist, often with doubts, because their place is reflective of humanity's awkwardness. Evolution and civilization mutually enfold the human ability to resonate to the anguish of others as well. A species altruism directed toward repair of human problems is coupled with the skills of affectively linked "deep thinking." There is a continuing marginalization of such efforts, which now need to be cared for deeply.
Case reduction and cost-effectiveness of the RTS,S/AS01 malaria vaccine alongside bed nets in Lilongwe, Malawi.

Abstract Background RTS,S/AS01, the most advanced vaccine against malaria, is now undergoing pilot implementation in Malawi, Ghana, and Kenya where an estimated 360,000 children will be vaccinated each year. In this study we evaluate RTS,S/AS01 alongside bed net use and estimate cost-effectiveness. Methods RTS,S/AS01 phase III trial and bed net prevalence data were used to determine the effect of vaccination in the urban/periurban and rural areas of Lilongwe, Malawi. Cost data were used to calculate the cost-effectiveness of various interventions over three years. Findings Since bed nets reduce malaria incidence and homogeneous vaccine efficacy was assumed, participants without bed nets received greater relative benefit from vaccination with RTS,S/AS01 than participants with bed nets. Similarly, since malaria incidence in rural Lilongwe is higher than in urban Lilongwe, the impact and cost-effectiveness of vaccine interventions is increased in rural areas. In rural Lilongwe, we estimated that vaccinating one child without a bed net would prevent 2·59 (1·62 to 3·38) cases of malaria over three years, corresponding to a cost of $10·08 (7·71 to 16·13) per case averted. Alternatively, vaccinating one child with a bed net would prevent 1·59 (0·87 to 2·57) cases, corresponding to $16·43 (10·16 to 30·06) per case averted. Providing RTS,S/AS01 to 30,000 children in rural Lilongwe was estimated to cost $782,400 and to prevent 58,611 (35,778 to 82,932) cases of malaria over a three-year period. Joint interventions providing both vaccination and bed nets (to those without them) were estimated to prevent additional cases of malaria and to be similarly cost-effective, compared to vaccine-only interventions. Interpretation To maximize malaria prevention, vaccination and bed net distribution programs could be integrated. Funding Impacts of Environment, Host Genetics and Antigen Diversity on Malaria Vaccine Efficacy (1R01AI137410-01)
The Political Theory of Parties and Partisanship: Catching Up

Despite their centrality to modern democracy, until recently political parties were relegated to the margins of normative democratic theory, taking a back seat to social movements, civil society as...
Effects of Procedural Discomfort and Expectation of Benefit on Therapy Continuation in Chronic Migraine Patients Treated With OnabotulinumtoxinA

BACKGROUND OnabotulinumtoxinA (BTX) has become a mainstream treatment for chronic migraine (CM). Patients often have varied expectations for treatment success but little is known about how these initial impressions influence continuation of therapy. OBJECTIVE To record expectations of benefit and procedural discomfort (PD) from initial BTX treatment and to investigate their association with treatment success, defined as continuation of treatment for >3 sessions within a 2-year period. METHODS A retrospective chart review of CM patients receiving initial treatment with BTX was performed. Patients were questioned about their expectations of benefit and PD as rated on a 0-10 scale. Responses were then compared with continuation of therapy beyond 3 sessions to identify the presence of significant association. RESULTS Responses from patients (N = 297) were analyzed. About 173 subjects continued with BTX therapy for more than 3 sessions (173/297, 58.3%). Unadjusted odds ratios (OR) for expectation of benefit (EOB) (OR 1.11, 95% CI 0.99-1.24, P = .087) and PD (OR 1.02, 95% CI 0.90-1.16, P = .780) were not significantly predictive of continuing treatment. After considering sex, age, year of treatment, and previous headache preventative trials, only female sex (OR 2.02, 95% CI 1.09-3.74, P = .025) was found to be significantly associated with treatment continuation. CONCLUSIONS In the usual care setting, PD and EOB are not significantly associated with therapy continuation in patients receiving initial treatment with BTX for the prevention of CM. However, after considering sex, age, year of treatment, and number of previous headache preventives attempted, we found that female patients had twice the likelihood of continuing with BTX therapy compared to male patients with CM.
An assessment of power flexibility from commercial building cooling systems in the United States

Abstract Understanding the varying characteristics and aggregate potential of power flexibility from different building types considering regional diversity is critically important to actively engaging building resources in future eco-friendly, low-cost, and sustainable power systems. This paper presents a comprehensive characteristics analysis and potential assessment of the power flexibility from heating, ventilation, and air conditioning loads in commercial buildings in the U.S. using a simulation-based method. Commercial buildings are first grouped by building type and climate region. The U.S. Department of Energy Commercial Prototype Building Models are used to represent an average building in each group and are simulated to characterize power flexibility. Based on building survey data, the number of commercial buildings in each group is estimated and used to calculate aggregate power flexibility. It is found that cooling loads in commercial buildings offer more flexibility for increasing power consumption than for decreasing it. The power consumption of commercial buildings in the U.S. can be increased by 46 GW and decreased by 40 GW on peak summer days. Among all commercial building types, standalone retail buildings provide the most absolute flexibility while medium office buildings have the most flexibility as a percentage of the rated power consumption.
Using Predictive Analytics for Cancer Identification

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) or malignant mesothelioma (MM) is an atypical, aggressive tumor that matures into cancer in the pleura, a stratum of tissue bordering the lungs. MPM accounts for about 75% of all mesothelioma diagnosed yearly in the United States. Given the difficulty of diagnosing MPM, early identification is crucial for patient survival. Our study implements predictive analytics and recommends the best fit model for early diagnosis and prognosis of MPM. We retrieved medical reports generated by Dicle University (Turkey) and implemented the following predictive analytics methods for the early stage diagnoses of MPM: the Stochastic Gradient Descent, Adaptive Boosting, Kernel Logistic Regression, Multi-layer Perceptron Classifier, Voted Perceptron, Hoeffding Tree, and the Clojure Classifier. The performance of these predictive methods were evaluated using the following measure: accuracy, f -measure, recall, precision, root mean squared error, receiver operating characteristic, and precision- recall curve. Among the predictive methods tested, Adaptive Boosting had the highest accuracy with 71.29%. Results indicate improved MPM diagnosis through the use of predictive analytics methods with the accuracy of testing and training dependent upon the specific application.
To Be or Not to Be Social? Socially Embedded Marketplace Design

A marketplace incorporated within a social networking platform is said to be socially embedded. In such a marketplace, the structure of social relationships can influence the choice of transacting partners as well as the terms of transactions. We study the role of different information policies (full anonymity/partial anonymity/no anonymity) and uncertainty regarding product quality on offers and acceptance decisions in a socially embedded marketplace. We use variations of an Ultimatum Game to study the problem both theoretically and experimentally. We show that the sellers receive the highest surplus under No Anonymity policy, but the transaction efficiency is lower. In Full Anonymity, the surplus for the sellers and transaction efficiency are at the lowest. However, our results suggest that platforms can benefit from Partial Anonymity policy where transacting parties have common affiliation such as workplace or school. Sellers earn a higher surplus in Partial Anonymity, and buyers benefit from alleviating quality uncertainty while transacting with their social networks. Consequentially, a partially anonymous marketplace can lead to higher transaction efficiency making a socially embedded marketplace a viable source for revenue generation for the platform.