cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Long term evolution of endothelial function during kidney transplantation.

Endothelial dysfunction is an important precursor to the development of atherosclerosis, and has been suggested to play a role in the increased cardiovascular risk in patients with end stage renal disease. Endothelial function improves rapidly following post kidney transplantation, but the long term change remains unclear. Hypothesizing that endothelial function would remain improved long term post kidney transplantation, we evaluated the longitudinal change of endothelial function, measured by flow-mediated dilation (FMD) of the brachial artery, from months 1 to 24 post transplantation. Given the previously reported association of fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF-23) with endothelial dysfunction, we also examined changes in the association between FGF-23 levels and the change in FMD following kidney transplantation. We performed a prospective cohort study of 149 kidney transplant recipients, measuring endothelial function by FMD at months 1, 12, and 24 post-transplant. FGF-23 levels were measured at months 1 and 24 post-transplant. Linear mixed effects models were used to assess both the unadjusted and adjusted outcomes. The cohort (mean age 49 ± 13 years) was 74 % male and 75 % white. The median FMD was 6.3 % (IQR: 3.4, 10.2), 5.4 % (IQR: 3.1, 8.5), and 5.6 % (IQR: 3.5, 9.1) at 1, 12, and 24 months, respectively. After adjustment for covariates, compared to month 1, no change occurred in FMD at 12 months (−0.66 %; 95 % CI: −1.81 %, 0.49 %; P = 0.262) or 24 months (−0.25 %; 95%CI: −1.76 %, 1.26 %; P = 0.746). FGF-23 decreased significantly over time (P = 0.024), but there was no significant association between FGF-23 and FMD (P = 0.799). Endothelial function remained stable at 12 and 24 months from 1 month post-kidney transplant, indicating that the improved endothelial function seen with transplant is maintained up to 2 years post transplantation. There was also no significant association between FGF-23 and endothelial function following kidney transplantation.
The determination of the extent of faulting with application to the Long Beach earthquake

The Long Beach earthquake of March 10, 1933, produced no visible evidence to indicate the extent of faulting. The epicenter which Gutenberg and Wood located a few kilometers off the coast at Newport was determined by the arrival times of the first longitudinal waves. It therefore indicates solely the point at which faulting originated. It offers no information on the extent of faulting nor on the area from which maximum destructive energy radiated. The distribution of destruction was such as to suggest that faulting extended northwest along the Inglewood fault in the direction of Long Beach. Long Beach and Compton, distant 18 and 25 miles, respectively, from the epicenter, exhibited severe damage. With liberal allowances for poor construction and bad ground, it is difficult to believe that an earthquake of such small magnitude could produce damage of such severity at such large distances from the epicenter unless faulting extended a substantial distance toward Long Beach.
Playful Constructivism: Making Sense of Digital Games for Learning and Creativity Through Play, Design, and Participation

The goal of this article is to provide a conceptual framework to better understand digital games in learning and creative contexts through the dimensions of play , design , and participation . This framework can be used as a guiding tool for the selection, implementation, and evaluation of game-based approaches in formal and informal educational settings, as well as a blueprint for making sense of playful learning and creativity in virtual worlds and technology-mediated environments. In essence, this article seeks to answer the question “What are digital games and how can we make sense of them for learning and creativity?” The proposed visual model and conceptual framework, here defined as Playful Constructivism , is grounded on the learning theories of Situated Cognition, Social Constructivism, and Constructionism, and draws from play and game studies, design-based learning, and affinity spaces research. This framework is not intended as the “ultimate” conceptualization of game-based learning, but rather as an agile tool that can guide scholars, practitioners, and students through the affordances, challenges, and opportunities of implementing and using digital games in learning and creative contexts.
Randomized Shellsort: A Simple Data-Oblivious Sorting Algorithm

In this article, we describe a randomized Shellsort algorithm. This algorithm is a simple, randomized, data-oblivious version of the Shellsort algorithm that always runs in O(n log n) time and succeeds in sorting any given input permutation with very high probability. Taken together, these properties imply applications in the design of new efficient privacy-preserving computations based on the secure multiparty computation (SMC) paradigm. In addition, by a trivial conversion of this Monte Carlo algorithm to its Las Vegas equivalent, one gets the first version of Shellsort with a running time that is provably O(n log n) with very high probability.
On the Quantification of Identity and Link Disclosures in Randomizing Social Networks

Many applications of social networks require identity and/or relationship anonymity due to the sensitive, stigmatizing, or confidential nature of user identities and their behaviors. Recent work showed that the simple technique of anonymizing graphs by replacing the identifying information of the nodes with random ids does not guarantee privacy since the identification of the nodes can be seriously jeopardized by applying subgraph queries. In this chapter, we investigate how well an edge based graph randomization approach can protect node identities and sensitive links. Specifically, we quantify both identity disclosure and link disclosure when adversaries have one specific type of background knowledge (i.e., knowing the degrees of target individuals). Our theoretical studies and empirical evaluations show that edge randomization is a necessity in addition to node anonymization in order to preserve privacy in the released graph.
Screening for dysglycaemia in dental primary care practice settings: systematic review of the evidence.

Introduction Increasing prevalence of diabetes and periodontal disease is prompting identification of additional clinical settings to identify patients at risk for dysglycaemia. A systematic review of studies that have examined feasibility of screening for at-risk patients in general dentistry settings at point-of-care (POC) was undertaken. Materials and methods Systematic review of pragmatic clinical field trials piloting POC screening for dysglycaemia risk in dental settings was undertaken in studies whose primary objective was to explore rates of dysglycaemia among undiagnosed patient populations. Results Among 17 dental clinical field trials identified, 10 were systematically reviewed. High rates of undiagnosed dysglycaemia were detected among dental patients by biological screening in all trials. Notably, substantive differences in study design and population characteristics were identified, precluding meta-analysis. Conclusion Screening for dysglycaemia in dental offices effectively identified high-risk patients requiring triage for glycaemic management. Considerations for future clinical trial design were advanced to establish an evidence base amenable to meta-analysis of the relative translational value of glycaemic screening in dental settings.
Pilot study demonstrates that placental histology can provide an additional tool for diagnosing early-onset neonatal sepsis.

AIM We explored whether placental histology could help to diagnose early-onset neonatal sepsis (EONS), guide clinical decision-making 48 hours after birth and reduce antibiotic use. METHODS This study comprised 109 infants born at less than 32 weeks of gestation, who were admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit of Isala, Zwolle, The Netherlands, between January 2013 and December 2013. EONS was defined as clinical symptoms plus raised serial C-reactive protein (CRP) >10 mg/L and a positive (proven EONS) or a negative (suspected EONS) blood culture. Placentas were studied for a histological inflammatory response and scored according to Redline's criteria. RESULTS A histological inflammatory response was seen in 15/88 (17%) placentas and this occurred significantly more often in infants with a high suspicion of EONS (p < 0.05). No histological inflammatory response was seen if maternal risk factors for EONS were absent, despite a raised CRP level. Based on placental histology, the duration of antibiotic therapy was reduced from more than five days to 48 hours in 20/27 infants (74%). CONCLUSION Histological examination of the placenta helped to diagnose EONS and guide clinical decision-making 48 hours after birth and led to a clinically relevant reduction in antibiotic use.
Partially Induced Hepatic Mixed-Function Oxidase Systems in Individual Members of Certain Marine Species from Coastal Maine and Florida

ABSTRACT Using elevated hepatic microsomal benzo(a)pyrene (AHH) hydroxylase activities and/or inhibition of AHH activity by a-naphtho-flavone (a-NF) in vitro as criteria for induction, 11 of 13 winter flounder (Pseudopleuronectes americanus) and 8 of 81 sheepshead (Archosargusprobatocephalus) tested had partially induced hepatic mixed-function oxidase systems. Such induction was not observed in any of the little skates (Rajaerinacea) or dogfish sharks (Squalusacanthias) studied.
Homotopy Theory of CW-complexes

In Chapter II we proved that if X is an n-cellular extension of the pathwise connected space A, then the pair (X, A) is (n — l)-connected, so that π i (X, A) = 0 for all i < n. The next step is the determination of π n (X, A). By the results of §2 of Chapter II, H n (X, A) is a free abelian group with one basis element for each n-cell of (X, A). We have seen that the Hurewicz map ρ: π n (X, A) → H n (X, A) is an epimorphism whose kernel is generated by all elements of the form α — τ’ ξ (α) with α ∈ π n (X, A), ξ ∈ π 1 (A). If II = π 1 (A) operates trivially on π n (X, A), then ρ is an isomorphism. But this condition is not easy to verify a priori.
The Effects of Chemical Stress on Aquatic Species Composition and Community Structure

Biological communities are sensitive to their chemical environment, although the degree of sensitivity varies among species and communities. Aquatic ecosystems are particularly responsive to chemical stress, because pollutants tend to be well-distributed throughout zones of active mixing, and because communities tend to be dominated by motile, short-lived species with high reproductive rates. Response to chemical stress often involves rapid changes in species composition of aquatic ecosystems that can translate into changes in various aspects of community structure, such as species richness.
Cardiac outcomes of trastuzumab therapy in patients with HER2-positive breast cancer and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction

Asymptomatic decline in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) or heart failure (HF) occurs in up to 25% of patients treated with trastuzumab and can result in incomplete breast cancer therapy. The cardiac safety of continuing trastuzumab in patients with asymptomatic LVEF decline is unknown. We report the cardiac outcomes of patients treated with trastuzumab after a significant asymptomatic LVEF decline. Patients with HER2-positive breast cancer and asymptomatic LVEF decline to 50%, 21 (57%) were not re-challenged, and one (3%) developed HF. More patients in the continued trastuzumab group had metastatic disease (39% vs. 5%, p = 0.002). The final LVEF after median follow-up of 633 days was similar between patients with trastuzumab continuation versus interruption (54% vs. 56%, p = 0.29). Continuation of trastuzumab after an asymptomatic LVEF decline to < 50% in patients who are expected to benefit from additional anti-HER2 therapy is a promising approach that warrants further investigation.
Deep learning spectroscopic stimulated Raman scattering microscopy

Spectroscopic stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) is a label-free chemical imaging modality enabling visualization of molecules in living systems with high specificity. Among various spectroscopic SRS imaging methods, a convenient way is through linearly chirping two femtosecond lasers and tuning their temporal delay, which in turn corresponds to different Raman shifts. Currently, the acquisition speed using a resonant mirror is 3 seconds (80 microseconds per spectrum), which is insufficient for imaging samples with high motility. In this work, we aim to push the imaging speed using a 50-kHz polygon scanner as a delay line tuner, achieving a speed of 20 microseconds per spectrum. At such high speeds, to overcome the signal level decrease due to reduced signal integration time, we apply a U-Net deep learning framework, which first takes pairs of spectroscopic SRS images at different speeds as training samples, with high-speed, low-signal images as input and low speed, high-signal ones as output. After training, the network is capable of rapidly transforming a low-signal spectroscopic image to a high-signal version. Consequently, our design can generate ultrafast spectroscopic SRS image while maintaining the signal level comparable to the output with longer signal integration time.
Language-based Integration of Digital Forensics & Incident Response

In the cybersecurity domain, the level of standardization and interoperability among cybersecurity products from different vendors, including open-source ones, is fairly low. Although understandable from a business perspective, this deficiency makes it difficult and expensive for analysts to put together custom solutions and to have visibility across their entire IT infrastructure. It also hampers the adoption of custom data analytics and AI solutions, and slows down the exchange of threat detection and mitigation solutions. Recently, the Nugget domain specific language (DSL) has been proposed as a solution to the integration of digital forensics computations. The essential idea is to use a data flow language, somewhat similar to SQL, and an extensible run-time environment to decouple the specification of forensic computations from their implementation. In this paper, we study the integration of Nugget with security monitoring tools; specifically, we integrate Google's GRR incident response framework, and the de facto standard for log aggregation: Splunk. We demonstrate the utility of this type standardization to both tool developers and end-user analysts/IT administrators. We discuss potential implications of having such a DSL becoming widely adopted across the entire domain of cybersecurity.
A Brief Mobile-Augmented Suicide Prevention Intervention for People With Psychotic Disorders in Transition From Acute to Ongoing Care: Protocol for a Pilot Trial.

Background: People with serious mental illnesses (SMIs) are at exceptionally high risk for lifetime suicidal ideation and behavior compared with the general population. The transition period between urgent evaluation and ongoing care could provide an important setting for brief suicide-specific interventions for SMIs. To address this concern, this trial, SafeTy and Recovery Therapy (START), involves a brief suicide-specific cognitive behavioral intervention for SMIs that is augmented with mobile phone interactions. Objective: The primary aim of this pilot trial is to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness of the intervention. Methods: A 6-month pilot trial with 70 participants with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder, and current active suicidal ideation were randomized to START or START with mobile augmentation. START consists of 4 weekly sessions addressing early warning signs and triggers, symptoms influencing suicidal thinking, and social relationships. Recovery planning is followed by biweekly telephone coaching. START with mobile augmentation includes personalized automated cognitive behavioral therapy scripts that build from in-person content. Participants were evaluated at baseline, 4 weeks (end of in-person sessions), 12 weeks (end of telephone coaching), and 24 weeks. In addition to providing point estimates of feasibility and acceptability, the primary outcome of the trial was the change in severity of suicidal ideation as measured with the Scale for Suicide Ideation (SSI) and secondary outcome included the rate of outpatient engagement. Results: The trial is ongoing. Feasibility and acceptability across conditions will be assessed using t tests or Mann-Whitney tests or chi-square tests. The reduction of SSI over time will be assessed using hierarchical linear models. Conclusions: The design considerations and results of this trial may be informative for adapted suicide prevention in psychotic disorders in applied community settings. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03198364; http://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03198364
The effect of sleep on men's health

Sleep has increasingly been found to play a role in the overall health of an individual, but sleep quality has also been decreasing with the invasion of technology into the bedroom, “always-on” lifestyles, and increasing demands on one’s time when awake. We have herein reviewed the literature to assess the impact of sleep on erectile dysfunction, lower urinary tract symptoms, hypogonadal symptoms, low testosterone, and male infertility. We find that erectile dysfunction, lower urinary tract symptoms, and hypogonadal symptoms all have a linear relationship with sleep, as worse symptoms occur with poorer sleep. Male infertility, interestingly, has an inverse U-shaped relation to sleep in which men with too little and too much sleep seem to be more at risk for infertility than those with 7–8 hours of sleep. Finally, the literature has not demonstrated a significant clinical relationship between hypogonadal symptoms or testosterone levels and sleep. Overall, a large number of men experience poor quality sleep. Given the impact that poor sleep can have on general health and men’s health, in particular, screening for poor sleep quality and recommending interventions to improve sleep are becoming imperative during clinical evaluation and treatment.
Mexico’s Housing Paradox: Tensions Between Financialization and Access

The main aim of this article is to analyze the participation of different government levels and institutions in promoting the financialization of housing in Mexico. Furthermore, it examines some of...
Hematologic Disorders: Hemophilia and Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation

Perioperative coagulopathy in a patient with hemophilia and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is discussed.
Influence of cap weight on the motion of a Janus particle very near a wall.

The dynamics of anisotropic nano- to micro scale colloidal particles in confined environments, either near neighboring particles or boundaries, is relevant to a wide range of applications. We utilized Brownian dynamics simulations to predict the translational and rotational fluctuations of a Janus sphere with a cap of nonmatching density near a boundary. The presence of the cap significantly impacted the rotational dynamics of the particle as a consequence of gravitational torque at experimentally relevant conditions. Gravitational torque dominated stochastic torque for a particle g1 \ensuremath{\mu}m in diameter and with a 20-nm-thick gold cap. Janus particles at these conditions sampled mostly cap-down or ``quenched'' orientations. Although the results summarized herein showed that particles of smaller diameter (1 \ensuremath{\mu}m) with a thin gold coating (5 nm) behave similarly to an isotropic particle, small increases in either particle diameter or coating thickness quenched the polar rotation of the particle. Histogram landscapes of the separation distance from the boundary and orientation observations of particles with larger diameters or thicker gold coatings were mostly populated with quenched configurations. Finally, the histogram landscapes were inverted to obtain the potential energy landscapes, providing a road map for experimental data to be interpreted.
Chapter 6 – MATRIX CALCULUS

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses matrix calculus. It discusses matrix functions, specifically polynomials and exponentials, developing techniques for calculating these functions, and some of their important properties. As a matrix commutes with itself, many of the properties of polynomials—addition, subtraction, multiplication, and factoring but not division—are still valid for polynomials of a matrix. The chapter presents one of the most powerful theorems of matrix theory, the Cayley–Hamilton theorem. In general, it is very difficult to compute the functions of matrices from their definition as infinite series—one exception is the diagonal matrix. The Cayley–Hamilton theorem, however, provides a starting point for the development of an alternate, straightforward method for calculating these functions. The chapter also presents the method for the polynomials of matrices having distinct eigenvalues. The method is extended to the functions of matrices having arbitrary eigenvalues.
A game on the edge: an attempt to unravel the Gordian Knot of tafl games

Abstract This paper offers a discussion of the various asymmetric games within the tafl family: hnefatafl, tablut, brandub, tawllbwrdd and alea evangelii, identifying various problems and misunderstandings that have accrued around these games. Beginning with a review of the terminology used to refer to board games and to games of chance in general (alea; taefl) as well as the nomenclature applied to specific games (tabula; hnefatafl), the paper discusses the distribution of selected examples of tafl-type game boards in the archaeological record (e.g. the Ballinderry gaming board) and in literature (e.g. alea evangelii in Oxford Corpus Christi MS 122), identifies Israel the Grammarian (c. 900–c. 970) as a likely co-inventor of the alea evangelii and concludes with an appraisal of Linnaeus’s problematic account of tablut during his controversial expedition around the Gulf of Bothnia in 1732 that, when probed, seems to raise questions about the falsification of some of the data recorded in his journal. The 1811 translation of Linnaeus’s journal also generated a significant misunderstanding about the rules of the game, subsequently amplified by H. J. R. Murray in his two monumental studies (1913, 1952). The paper concludes with the observations that alea evangelii may be an aide memoire for students learning the Eusebian canon tables rather than a game per se, and that more remains to be learned about the exact circumstances of Linnaeus’s observation of tablut. Keywords: abstract games, alea evangelii, ancient games,anglo saxon games, board game studies, board game, board games, brandub, English games, game history, game rules, games, hnefatafl, irish games, Linnaeus, rules, sami games, strategy games, tablut, Tafl, tawllbwrdd, Viking game, welsh games
Respiratory Particle Emission During Voice Assessment and Therapy Tasks in a Single Subject.

Summary Introduction SARS-CoV-2 is transmitted via respiratory particles. Respiratory particle emission is impacted by manner of breathing and voicing, as well as intersubject variability. Assessment and treatment of voice disorders may include tasks that increase respiratory particle emission beyond typical breathing and speaking. This could increase the risk of disease transmission via respiratory particles. Methods Respiratory particle emission was measured during a single-subject, repeated measures clinical simulation of acoustic and aerodynamic assessment and voice therapy tasks. An optical particle sizer was used to measure particle count (1–10 μm in diameter). Assessment and therapy tasks were completed in three conditions: (1) 15 cm from the device, (2) 1 m from the device, and (3) 1 m from the device with the subject wearing a surgical mask. Results Condition 1 generated the highest particle count, with a median of 5.1 (13) additional particles above baseline, which was statistically significant (U = 381.5, P= 0.002). In condition 1, therapy and acoustic tasks combined produced more particles compared to the baseline and speech tasks, with a median difference of 6.5 additional particles per time point (U = 309.0, P= 0.002). This difference was not significant for conditions 2 and 3. Peak particle generation occurred in specific phonatory tasks, which was most pronounced in condition 1. Voice therapy tasks during condition 1 generated the highest peaks of normalized total particles with classical singing and expiratory muscle strength training. There was a significant difference in the amount of particle generation between condition 1 and 2, with a median difference of 5.2 particles (U = 461.0, P= 0.002). The particle count difference between conditions 2 and 3 was 2.1 (U = 282.0, P= 0.292), and this difference was not significant. The normalized total particles were assessed over time for each condition. For all conditions, there was no significant accumulation of particles. Conclusions For a single subject, production of voice assessment and therapy tasks combined resulted in an increased number of respiratory particles compared to speech and baseline (1–10 μm). EMST and classical singing generated the greatest concentration of particles. Respiratory particle counts were higher at 15 cm from the particle sizer compared to 1 m from the particle sizer, suggesting that physical distancing may reduce immediate clinician exposure to respiratory particles. Particle concentration did not accumulate over time.
Efficiency Estimates From Depletion Experiments For Sedentary Invertebrates: Evaluation of Sources of Uncertainty In Experimental Design

Abstract Between 1997 and 2011, The National Marine Fisheries Service conducted 50 depletion experiments to estimate survey gear efficiency and stock density for Atlantic surfclam (Spisula solidissima) and ocean quahog (Arctica islandica) populations using commercial hydraulic dredges. A model formulated for this purpose, the Patch Model, was used to estimate gear efficiency and organism density. The range of efficiencies estimated is substantial, leading to uncertainty in the application of these estimates in stock assessment. A simulation protocol was developed to examine sources of uncertainty in Patch Model estimates. Analysis of simulations showed that uncertainty in the estimates of gear efficiency from depletion experiments was reduced by higher numbers of dredge tows per experiment, more tow overlap in the experimental area, a homogeneous as opposed to patchy distribution of clams in the experimental area, and the use of gear of inherently high efficiency. Stock density was of lesser importance, though still contributing to estimated uncertainty. Simulations suggest that adapting the experimental protocol during the depletion experiment by adjusting tow number and degree and dispersion of tow overlap may substantively reduce uncertainty in the final efficiency estimates. Simulations also suggest that the pattern of population dispersion in the experimental area is, and will likely remain, an important source of uncertainty, which may, however, be mitigated by updating experimental design during the course of the experiment.
A Lagrangian-to-Eulerian Metric to Identify Estuarine Pelagic Habitats

Estuaries are among the world’s most productive ecosystems, but recent natural and anthropogenic changes have stressed these ecosystems. Tools to assess estuarine pelagic habitats are important to support and maintain healthy ecosystem function. In this work, we demonstrate that estuarine pelagic habitats can be identified by a simple ratio, termed the LE ratio, that takes into account the tidal excursion along a channel (a Lagrangian length scale) and the distance along that channel (an Eulerian length scale). To develop and assess this concept, numerical simulations of the 1D advection–dispersion equation of a conservative tracer and tidal excursion estimates based on data were used to formulize a conceptual model and to define exchange zones within a tidal channel. This conceptual model was then used to predict the extent of pelagic habitats in a terminal channel network in the Sacramento–San Joaquin Delta. Exchange zones mapped onto these channels were found to be in good agreement with independent estimates of residence time. Sensitivity analyses of the numerical model suggest that productive pelagic habitats can be expanded by a factor of 2 by either increasing dispersion or increasing spring–neap variability in mean tidal velocity. Such changes can also enhance flushing in upper channel reaches. These findings are relevant for tidal marsh restoration projects that aim to expand beneficial aquatic habitats by varying exchange or residence time over the spring–neap cycle, because this variability may interact synergistically with varying rates of phytoplankton growth due to spatiotemporal changes in environmental conditions.
Modeling and Identification of Coupled Translational and Rotational Motion of Underactuated Indoor Miniature Autonomous Blimps

Swing oscillation is widely observed among indoor miniature autonomous blimps (MABs) due to their underactuated design and unique aerodynamic shape. A detailed dynamics model is critical for investigating this undesired movement and designing controllers to stabilize the oscillation. This paper presents a motion model that describes the coupled translational and rotational movements of a typical indoor MAB with saucer-shaped envelope. The kinematics and dynamic model of the MAB are simplified from the six-degrees-of-freedom (6-DOF) Newton-Euler equations of underwater vehicles. The model is then reduced to 3-DOF given the symmetrical design of the MAB around its vertical axis. Parameters of the motion model are estimated from the system identification experiments, and validated with experimental data.
A Teaching Strategy Based Upon a Model of Agentic Learning

A major purpose of formal education is to prepare its students for life after graduation. In the current age of ever-increasing information and opportunities for novel personal and professional pursuits, the capacity to engage in lifelong agentic (i.e., intentional) learning is essential to maximize adaptation, achievement, and satisfaction. The purpose of this article is to discuss a model of agentic learning as the foundation for a teaching strategy that focuses on student development with respect to the various modes (individual, proxy, and group) and situations (selected and created) via which agentic learning is enacted. Examples of teaching techniques will be presented along with the consideration of developing actual and perceived ability for agentic learning in its various manifestations as preparation for fulfilling personally-chosen pursuits throughout life.
A Global Analysis of Passive Microwave Brightness Temperature Diurnal Cycle

Passive microwave brightness temperature (TB) radiometers are widely used to retrieve several atmospheric and surface parameters such as precipitation, soil moisture, freeze and thaw, water vapor, air temperature profile, and land surface emissivity. Since TBs are measured at different microwave frequencies with various instruments, incident angles, footprints, spatial resolutions, and radiometric characteristics, a combination of data from different microwave sensors could be inconsistent. For this reason, this study primarily uses the nonsynchronous Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) Microwave Imager (GMI) measurements to construct the diurnal cycle of TBs for each month. This diurnal pattern could be used as a point of reference to validate and calibrate the diurnal cycle of TBs from fusing the measurements of other sensors with daily fixed acquisition times (SSM/I, SSMIS, AMSR2, and etc.). The data from these sensors should also be merged and harmonized in order to build a comprehensive global diurnal cycle of passive microwave TBs. This highly frequent diurnal cycle will eventually help predict the emissivity estimation and potentially further advance the accurate prediction of the estimated time of the freeze/thaw (FT) transition states. Global comparison of TBs obtained from different sensors shows a moderate variance with a significant dependence on land cover type. The results of this study can enhance the temporal detection of freeze and thaw which is more helpful during the transition times when multiple FT changes may occur within a day.
Navigating to the Future: Emerging Strategies and Innovations to Enrich Higher Education Effectiveness

The emergence of technological and social expectancy, intentional actions, and real-time results have higher education institutions rapidly shifting policies, practices, and behaviors to meet the needs of their respective communities (e.g., prospective students, current students, alumni, employees, partners, and external compliance organizations). The purpose of this article is to highlight a few emerging trends that will be essential for colleges and universities to adapt to increase the quality of instruction, service, and overall sustainability and effectiveness.
Physics-constrained deep neural network method for estimating parameters in a redox flow battery.

In this paper, we present a physics-constrained deep neural network (PCDNN) method for parameter estimation in the zero-dimensional (0D) model of the vanadium redox flow battery (VRFB). In this approach, we use deep neural networks (DNNs) to approximate the model parameters as functions of the operating conditions. This method allows the integration of the VRFB computational models as the physical constraints in the parameter learning process, leading to enhanced accuracy of parameter estimation and cell voltage prediction. Using an experimental dataset, we demonstrate that the PCDNN method can estimate model parameters for a range of operating conditions and improve the 0D model prediction of voltage compared to the 0D model prediction with constant operation-condition-independent parameters estimated with traditional inverse methods. We also demonstrate that the PCDNN approach has an improved generalization ability for estimating parameter values for operating conditions not used in the DNN training.
Embryologic Abnormalities of the Mesentery

Embryologic abnormalities of the mesentery that require surgical intervention are most commonly related to abnormal positioning of the bowel within the peritoneal cavity resulting from failure of any of the above 3 steps. These abnormalities are categorized under various forms of malrotation. Malrotation is thought to affect 1:500 live births with the majority becoming symptomatic within the first year of life. Classic malrotation presents as bilious emesis in infancy from duodenal obstruction or midgut volvulus, and it is usually associated with abnormal or absent intestinal fixation by mesenteric bands. The bands, known as Ladd bands, fix the cecum to the posterior body which traps the duodenum leading to obstruction. The duodenojejunal attachment is abnormally short which makes the gut prone to twist counterclockwise around the superior mesenteric vessels leading a volvulus. An upper GI series is the standard of care for diagnosis and will show a variation in the normal positioning of the duodenojejunal junction.
General linear cameras with finite aperture

A pinhole camera selects a two-dimensional set of rays from the four-dimensional light field. Pinhole cameras are a type of general linear camera, defined as planar 2D slices of the 4D light field. Cameras with finite apertures can be considered as the summation of a collection of pinhole cameras. In the limit they evaluate a two-dimensional integral of the four-dimensional light field. Hence a general linear camera with finite aperture factors the 4D light field into two integrated dimensions and two imaged dimensions. We present a simple framework for representing these slices and integral projections, based on certain eigenspaces in a two-plane parameterization of the light field. Our framework allows for easy analysis of focus and perspective, and it demonstrates their dual nature. Using our framework, we present analogous taxonomies of perspective and focus, placing within them the familiar perspective, orthographic, cross-slit, and bilinear cameras; astigmatic and anastigmatic focus; and several other varieties of perspective and focus.
Residents' Efforts at Neighborhood Stabilization: Facing the Challenges of Inner-City Neighborhoods

This paper examines the response of residents in one inner-city, racially, and economically diverse neighborhood to a sudden increase in crime, drugs and disorder. Rather than withdrawing, residents in this neighborhood responded by organizing a major collective effort to develop a stabilization plan for the neighborhood. Factors useful in understanding this atypical response include a citywide structure that encourages citizen participation, the city government's commitment to the neighborhood, a history of neighborhood activism, and residents' commitment to the neighborhood. A social movement perspective that examines the nature of successful social movement organizations, the political context of movement activities, and micromovement processes is useful in analyzing cases of neighborhood activism.
Shedding Light on Black Holes

Radio astronomers have long known about extremely strong radiation sources such as Cygnus A and Virgo A, but the origin of the energy has been a mystery. As Reid discusses in his Perspective, astronomers have increasingly come to accept the notion that these bright radio sources are powered by massive black holes. Results reported in the same issue by Hirabayashi et al. add to that understanding. Images taken with the very long baseline interferometry Space Observatory Program (VSOP) show the radio frequency-emitting core of Virgo A in unprecedented detail.
Exploring the role of showing design intent in supporting curriculum modification

Teachers face many challenges in enacting innovative curriculum materials and often must make modifications to fit local contexts and constraints. However, without an understanding of curriculum designers' intentions, modifications can lead to a loss of coherence with respect to the embedded reform ideas of the curriculum. As new curriculum materials are used more widely, it becomes increasingly important to understand how to support teacher decision making about curriculum implementation in ways that are coherent with respect to designers' intentions. This research posits that teachers need to understand underlying curriculum design ideas, such as the coherence of curriculum materials, which refer to the relationships between individual lessons and broader learning goals as well as connections between and across lessons that are intended to create effective learning experiences. I examined how the following three scaffolding strategies help teachers understand curricular coherence: (1) Providing visualizations to help teachers inspect multiple aspects of curricular coherence; (2) Demonstrating changes in the coverage rates of learning goals as a consequence of modification; and (3) Encouraging reflection about the modifications and their impact on coherence. The research questions addressed in this study are: (1) How does amount of teaching experience relate to teachers' understanding of coherence? (2) What are the roles of software scaffolds in helping teachers consider higher levels of coherence when modifying materials? (3) When teachers make changes in curriculum units with the assistance of software scaffolds, how do they reflect on their understanding of curriculum structure and modification strategies? To answer these research questions, I developed a software tool as a context to support and examine teachers' curriculum modification practices. I studied twenty teachers' modification practices with and without scaffolding support. Findings indicate that: (1) Teachers' level of understanding of curriculum coherence is not related to experience. (2) Software scaffolds helped teachers consider higher levels of curriculum coherence. (3) Software scaffolds encouraged teachers to examine their understanding of unit structures and modification strategies. This study informs the design of environments that aim to support more teachers in enacting curricula congruently with respect to design intent in the context of large-scale curriculum implementation.
Test and evaluation of displays for telemedicine applications

A joint exhibit was presented by the U.S. Army Aeromedical Research Laboratory (USAARL) and Honeywell Inc. Honeywell Inc. currently is developing prototype head-mounted display systems under contract with the Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA). These systems incorporate flat panel technologies such as liquid crystal and electroluminescence. Displays based on these technologies offer the advantages of reduced weight, size, and power requirements. However, these displays do not provide the same level of image quality as those in current use which are based on cathode-ray-tube (CRT) technology. For this reason, Honeywell Inc. has joined in a cooperative research and development agreement with the U.S. Army Aeromedical Research Laboratory. USAARL has over two decades experience evaluating display performance and addressing issues associated with head-mounted display systems.
Alignment layers for improved surface-stabilized ferroelectric liquid-crystal devices.

Ultrathin silane monolayer and silicon oxide alignment layers in surface-stabilized ferroelectric liquid-crystal devices are shown to enhance bistability and reduce degradation from ions.
Alterations in insulin-like growth factor-I signaling in cardiomyocytes from chronic alcohol-exposed rats.

Background Insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) is a required cytokine for the development and maintenance of the cardiovascular system, and it may play a role in certain pathophysiological conditions. Methods Adult male rats were fed a liquid diet that contained 36% alcohol for 4 to 8 months, and their littermates served as isocaloric pair-fed controls, so we could examine IGF-I signaling in rat cardiomyocyte preparations. Results Recently, our laboratory reported that IGF-I activates protein kinase-C (PKC)-alpha and that PKC-alpha activity is required for IGF-I-dependent activation of Erk1/Erk2 and IGF-I-dependent protein synthesis. But in chronic alcohol-exposed rats, there is loss of PKC-alpha activation by IGF-I, represented as a reduction in PKC-alpha translocation to the membrane. In reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction experiments, both the alcoholic and control animals expressed the IGF-I receptor (IGF-1R, alpha subunit) and IGF-I mRNAs in approximately equal amounts. However, in the alcoholic cardiomyocyte protein preparations, there was a higher basal level of IGF-1R autophosphorylation of its internal tyrosine kinase domain, and IGF-I-activated autophosphorylation was reduced in the alcoholic protein preparations. Previously, we have demonstrated that acute IGF-I exposure enhances the rate of Mn2+ influx through activated nitrendipine-sensitive cardiac Ca2+ channels, and that this enhancement of channel activity is PKC-dependent. Here, we report that in alcohol-exposed myocytes, IGF-I-induced augmentation of the cardiac Ca2+ channel activity was absent. IGF-I increased the rate of protein synthesis in the control animals by 56% as determined in protein synthesis experiments that measured the rate of 14C-L-phenylalanine incorporation over time, and this effect was blocked by preincubation with Go6976, a specific inhibitor of PKC-alpha. However, in the alcohol-exposed cardiomyocytes, IGF-I did not increase the rate of protein synthesis. Conclusion These results suggest that IGF-I-dependent PKC-alpha activation and IGF-I-dependent protein synthesis are altered in the hearts of chronic alcohol-exposed rats. This may be the result of the IGF-1R being in a chronically activated state, and it may alter the normal function of PKC-alpha.
Calibration Surface Design and Validation for Terrain Measurement Systems

Traditionally, terrain profilers have been evaluated based on their ability to reproduce measurements made from some reference device (e.g., a rod and level). The measurement error inherent in these reference measurements has become significant as terrain profilers have become more accurate. This work develops the design requirements of a calibration surface that will provide an absolute reference by which to compare measured terrain profiles, and the event is used to test the accuracy of an inertial profiler. Four main requirements must be considered when designing a calibration surface. First, sharp-edged high bandwidth events must be implemented, and the surface must have a varying reflectivity to test the terrain profiler’s ability to measure the relative distance from itself to the terrain. The calibration surface must also gage the profiler’s ability to repeatedly measure longitudinal distance. Finally, the event must be easily transported and reproducible. An implementation example is used to demonstrate a potential calibration surface design and accuracy verification procedure.
Optimized multisectioned acoustic liners

New calculations show that segmenting is most efficient at high frequencies with relatively long duct lengths where the attenuation is low for both uniform and segmented liners. Statistical considerations indicate little advantage in using optimized liners with more than two segments while the bandwidth of an optimized two-segment liner is shown to be nearly equal to that of a uniform liner. Multielement liner calculations show a large degradation in performance due to changes in assumed input modal structure. Computer programs are used to generate theoretical attenuations for a number of liner configurations for liners in a rectangular duct with no mean flow. Overall, the use of optimized multisectioned liners fails to offer sufficient advantage over a uniform liner to warrant their use except in low frequency single mode application.
Shear Rate Characteristics of Growing Thrombus on a Stenosis in a Coronary Sized Vessel

Arterial thrombosis can lead to acute myocardial infarction or stroke. Thrombosis has been found to occur on atherosclerotic lesions and can fully occlude the blood vessel. Atheromas create a stenosis in the flow field. Thrombus forming in these regions is characteristically composed mostly of platelets with the addition of von Willebrand Factor (vWF) and polymerized fibrin. Previous studies of thrombosis under arterial-like stenotic flow conditions have shown that the thrombus growth rate increases under increasing shear rates up to 40000 s−1 [1]. The obstructive atheroma can lead to wall shear rates even greater than 40 times the average wall shear rate for an artery [2]. The shear rate dependency can be ascribed to mass transport [3]. Additionally, it can be ascribed to platelet binding mechanisms, such as vWF, that dominate at high shear, while other binding mechanisms, such as fibrinogen, bind at lower shear in the arteries [4].Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Lightning A Study of Lightning Rods and Cages, With Special Reference to the Protection of Oil Tanks

Former papers have discussed the voltage and nature of lightning, lightning voltages on transmission lines, and means of protecting against them, the effect of lightning voltages on insulations, etc. This paper is a further report on this investigation which has been in progress a number of years. Special attention is given here to additional work on the chance of objects being struck; the area protected from direct strokes, by a rod or number of rods, overhead wires, grids, nets, etc.; the effect of nets and cages in reducing induced voltages, etc. This work is particularly applicable to the protection of oil tanks, buildings, magazines, etc.