cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Primary Membranous Nephropathy

Membranous nephropathy (MN) is a unique glomerular lesion that is the most common cause of idiopathic nephrotic syndrome in nondiabetic white adults. About 80% of cases are renal limited (primary MN, PMN) and 20% are associated with other systemic diseases or exposures (secondary MN). This review focuses only on PMN. Most cases of PMN have circulating IgG4 autoantibody to the podocyte membrane antigen PLA2R (70%), biopsy evidence PLA2R staining indicating recent immunologic disease activity despite negative serum antibody levels (15%), or serum anti-THSD7A (3%-5%). The remaining 10% without demonstrable anti-PLA2R/THSd7A antibody or antigen likely have PMN probably secondary to a different, still unidentified, anti-podocyte antibody. Considerable clinical and experimental data now suggests these antibodies are pathogenic. Clinically, 80% of patients with PMN present with nephrotic syndrome and 20% with non-nephrotic proteinuria. Untreated, about one third undergo spontaneous remission, especially those with absent or low anti-PLA2R levels, one-third progress to ESRD over 10 years, and the remainder develop nonprogressive CKD. Proteinuria can persist for months after circulating anti-PLA2R/THSD7A antibody is no longer detectable (immunologic remission). All patients with PMN should be treated with supportive care from the time of diagnosis to minimize protein excretion. Patients with elevated anti-PLA2R/THSD7A levels and proteinuria >3.5 g/d at diagnosis, and those who fail to reduce proteinuria to <3.5 g after 6 months of supportive care or have complications of nephrotic syndrome, should be considered for immunosuppressive therapy. Accepted regimens include steroids/cyclophosphamide, calcineurin inhibitors, and B cell depletion. With proper management, only 10% or less will develop ESRD over the subsequent 10 years.
Asymptotic charges cannot be measured in finite time

Author(s): Bousso, R; Chandrasekaran, V; Halpern, IF; Wall, AC | Abstract: To study quantum gravity in asymptotically flat spacetimes, one would like to understand the algebra of observables at null infinity. Here we show that the Bondi mass cannot be observed in finite retarded time, and so is not contained in the algebra on any finite portion of I+. This follows immediately from recently discovered asymptotic entropy bounds. We verify this explicitly, and we find that attempts to measure a conserved charge at arbitrarily large radius in fixed retarded time are thwarted by quantum fluctuations. We comment on the implications of our results to flat space holography and the BMS charges at I+.
Experiences in open architecture research and experimentation

As open architecture (OA) standards become increasingly important to the Department of Defense (DoD) and in particular, the United States Air Force (USAF), so too does the need to be able to exercise, experiment, and validate interoperability with these standards. The Air Force Research Laboratory’s Sensor Directorate (AFRL/RYWA) has built an architecture and integration event called the Integrated Demonstration and Experimentation Architecture (IDEA) event. IDEA provides a realistic, adaptable government-owned reference architecture with capabilities to measure, control, and document performance benefits (or costs) for potential adopting programs; impacts of technology insertions; and insights into future OA standard growth. The IDEA event included industry and government organizations, that came together to demonstrate advanced integration capabilities in a rapid development environment using OAs, such as Open Mission Systems. The reference architecture includes multiple mission package subsystems and specialized tools for integration. The use of IDEA events to promote the evolution and integration of OA standards to meet current and future program needs will continue. This paper discusses the reference architecture used, the layout of the mission scenario for testing, and how the event was composed.
“[T]he People that Should Have Lived Here”: Haunting, the Economy, and Home in Tana French’s Broken Harbour

Ingram and Mullins examine the ghostly nature of Tana French’s 2012 novel Broken Harbour, arguing that French deliberately engages discourses of haunting to manifest the almost mystical ways in which unseen hegemonic forces invade the most sacrosanct of domestic spaces. To represent such hauntings in crime fiction is to reveal the inextricable lines between the past and the present, between domestic home life and organizing systems of social power. French’s ghosts—which are personal, communal, and national—are set against the backdrop of the Celtic Tiger era of economic prosperity and the bust which followed, exposing the deep connections between crime, gender, family, and economics.
An Examination of Two Approaches to Ceramic Instruction in Elementary Education.

Teaching strategies in art education have recently shifted from a child-centered approach to a more discipline-based approach. Although this new approach would encourage ceramic instruction coupled...
The Axiom of Choice, the Generalized Continuum Hypothesis and Cardinal Arithmetic

In Section 10 we defined the cardinal number of a set, $$ \overline{\overline a} $$ , to be the smallest ordinal that is equivalent to a. If no such ordinal exists then $$ \overline{\overline a} = 0 $$ . This definition has the advantage of connecting the theory of cardinal numbers to the properties of ordinals. A more traditional view is that $$ \overline{\overline a} $$ is the equivalence class of sets equipollant to a.
Advantages of Hierarchical Linear Modeling.

Hierarchical, or nested, data structures are common throughout many areas of research. However, until recently there has not been any appropriate technique for analyzing these types of data. Now, with several user-friendly software programs available, and some more readable texts and treatments on the topic, researchers need to be aware of the issue, and how it should be dealt with. The goal of this paper is to introduce the problem, how it is dealt with appropriately, and to provide examples of the pitfalls of not doing appropriate analyses.
Cognitive Foundations in the Development of a Religious Mind

Evolutionary explanations for the existence of religious concepts have generally been based on the premise that the transmission and acquisition of religious concepts is a cognitively easy process because religious concepts build on natural cognitive predispositions. These predispositions evolved as cognitive tools essential to human survival . Theories have focused on several candidate cognitive processes that provide the cognitive foundations of religious beliefs: agency detection, folk-psychology , attributions of causality , and the animacy/inanimacy distinction. In this chapter, we review theories and studies outlining children ’s development of religious concepts such as supernatural agents, creation , religious rituals , afterlife beliefs, and the soul . These studies are discussed within the context of the contributions of ordinary cognition in religious belief , as well as the importance of also considering the cultural influences in the strength and content of belief.
Nest site taphonomy of colonial ground-nesting birds at Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge, Montana

Nesting localities of extant birds and reptiles may provide taphonomic models for interpreting nesting sites of ancient archosaurs. Here we describe assemblages of nesting gulls (Larus delawarensis...
Conference Comments by the General Chair

The 55th IEEE Nuclear and Space Radiation Effects Conference (NSREC) was held on July 16–20, 2018 at the Hilton Waikoloa Village Hotel, Kona, HI, USA. The NSREC is recognized as one of the premier international conferences on radiation effects in electronic materials, devices, and systems. The 2018 conference continued this tradition with a strong technical program, a one-day tutorial short course, a radiation effects data workshop, an industrial exhibit, and meetings for the IEEE Women in Engineering and Young Professionals organizations. The conference was sponsored by the Radiation Effects Committee of the IEEE Nuclear and Plasma Sciences Society (NPSS) and supported by Boeing, Cobham Semiconductor Solutions, Freebird Semiconductor, Harris, IR HiRel, Infineon Technology Company, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Renesas Electronics, Southwest Research Institute, and The Aerospace Corporation.
Creation and Destruction of Skyrmions via Electrical Modulation of Local Magnetic Anisotropy in Magnetic Thin Films

Magnetic skyrmions are topologically protected spin textures that are promising as carriers of information for computing and storage beyond CMOS-based systems. An electrostatic approach to creating a skyrmion can be more energy efficient than those based on a driving current. In this work, formation and dissolution of N\'eel skyrmions are examined theoretically via electrical modulation of magnetic anisotropy, in both ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic structures. Simulations clearly illustrate the feasibility of the mechanism, enabling local control for versatility in applications. Also noteworthy is that the dynamical processes involved are much faster in antiferromagnetic materials.
Characterization and numerical simulation of liquid refrigerant R-134a flow emerging from a flooded evaporator tube bundle.

Abstract The distribution of liquid droplets emerging from an evaporator tube bundle is characterized for refrigerant R-134a with a triangular tube arrangement with a pitch of 1.167. The purpose of this research was to improve understanding of the droplet ejection process to aid in design of evaporators typically used in larger chiller systems. A laser and camera system captured images of the evaporator headspace at varying conditions. Conventional shadowgraphy techniques were applied to recognize and match droplets for velocity calculations. The evaporator conditions varied with bundle mass fluxes of 20.3 and 40.7 kg s−1m−2, top-rows heat fluxes of 15.8 and 31.5 kWm−2, and outlet saturation temperatures of 4.4 and 12.8 °C. Conditions ranged from flooded to dryout of the top rows. Droplet number, size distribution, velocity, and liquid volume fraction are presented in the headspace above the bundle. A method to numerically duplicate the droplet loading in the headspace using CFD with a Lagrangian discrete-phase model is also presented and verified, providing a powerful design tool. Liquid distribution in the headspace is found to be a strong function of all varied properties, particularly mass flux, liquid level, and saturation temperature.
Metabolic phenotypes of standard and cold-stored platelets

Background Conventional platelet (PLT) storage at room temperature under continuous agitation results in a limited shelf life (5 days) and an increased risk of bacterial contamination. However, both of these aspects can be ameliorated by cold storage. Preliminary work has suggested that PLTs can be cold stored for up to 3 weeks, while preserving their metabolic activity longer than in PLTs stored at room temperature. As such, in the present study, we hypothesized that the metabolic phenotypes of PLTs stored at 4°C for 3 weeks could be comparable to that of room temperature-stored PLTs at 22°C for 5 days. Study design and methods Metabolomics analyses were performed on nine apheresis PLT concentrates stored either at room temperature (22°C) for 5 days or refrigerated conditions (4°C) for up to 3 weeks. Results Refrigeration did not impact the rate of decline in glutamine or the intracellular levels of Krebs cycle metabolites upstream to fumarate and malate. It did, however, decrease oxidant stress (to glutathione and purines) and slowed down the activation of the pentose phosphate pathway, glycolysis, and fatty acid metabolism (acyl-carnitines). Conclusion The overall metabolic phenotypes of 4°C PLTs at Storage Day 10 are comparable to PLTs stored at 22°C at the end of their 5-day shelf life, while additional changes in glycolysis, purine, and fatty acid metabolism are noted by Day 21.
Mitochondrial MUL1 E3 ubiquitin ligase regulates Hypoxia Inducible Factor (HIF-1α) and metabolic reprogramming by modulating the UBXN7 cofactor protein

MUL1 is a multifunctional E3 ubiquitin ligase anchored in the outer mitochondrial membrane with its RING finger domain facing the cytoplasm. MUL1 participates in various biological pathways involved in apoptosis, mitochondrial dynamics, and innate immune response. The unique topology of MUL1 enables it to “sense” mitochondrial stress in the intermembrane mitochondrial space and convey these signals through the ubiquitination of specific cytoplasmic substrates. We have identified UBXN7, the cofactor protein of the CRL2VHL ligase complex, as a specific substrate of MUL1 ligase. CRL2VHL ligase complex regulates HIF-1α protein levels under aerobic (normoxia) or anaerobic (hypoxia) conditions. Inactivation of MUL1 ligase leads to accumulation of UBXN7, with concomitant increase in HIF-1α protein levels, reduction in oxidative phosphorylation, and increased glycolysis. We describe a novel pathway that originates in the mitochondria and operates upstream of the CRL2VHL ligase complex. Furthermore, we delineate the mechanism by which the mitochondria, through MUL1 ligase, can inhibit the CRL2VHL complex leading to high HIF-1α protein levels and a metabolic shift to glycolysis under normoxic conditions.
Secondary Network Parameter Estimation for Distribution Transformers

Time series active power and voltage data recorded by electricity smart meters in the US have shown to provide immense value to utilities beyond customer billing when coupled with advanced analytics. Distribution system secondary circuit topology and parameter estimation (DSPE) is one such use-case that has been developed extensively. DSPE utilizes smart meter voltage and active and reactive power information to determine the topology and cable impedances of the low-voltage network. However, most smart meters do not record reactive power information. While the impact of unknown power factors is minimal on estimating low-voltage cable impedances, the information becomes critical to estimate transformer impedances. This paper explores how the DSPE algorithm can be extended for single-phase distribution transformers without power factor measurements at the customers.
Strategic Review and Beyond: Rethinking Monetary Policy and Independence

I survey monetary policy strategy, regulation, and central banks’ mandates and independence. I do not think strongly negative interest rates, vastly expanded quantitative easing, or extensive forward guidance can or should stimulate in the next recession.
The Effects of Self-Esteem, Coping, and Voice-Related Quality of Life on Communicative Participation Before and After BOTOX® Treatment for Spasmodic Dysphonia.

Summary Objectives/Hypothesis The purpose of this study was to (1) investigate the percent change in communicative participation in individuals with spasmodic dysphonia (SD) pre- and post-BOTOX® treatment; and (2) to investigate if percent change in communicative participation is predicted by change in self-esteem, coping, and/or Voice-Related Quality of Life (V-RQOL) pre- and post-BOTOX® treatment. Study Design/Methods A cross-sectional study of 49 patients was conducted across three clinics, with each participant completing the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, the Voice Disability Coping Questionnaire (VDCQ), the V-RQOL instrument, and the Communication Participation Item Bank (CPIB) before BOTOX® treatment and 10-14 days following BOTOX® treatment. Data Analysis For Research Question 1, a paired t test was applied to test the equality of means for CPIB and to test the pre-post changes among other composite measurements before and after the BOTOX® treatment. For Research Question 2, a multivariable linear regression model was applied with percent change in CPIB as a main outcome, and change in Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, VDCQ, and the V-RQOL as independent variables (or covariates) in order to test the associations. Results The results indicated that pre- and post-BOTOX® measures of communicative participation are not statistically significantly different among the participants with SD. There was a strong positive correlation between change in coping and voice-related QOL. Conclusions A better understanding of the relationship between communicative participation and voice-related QOL is warranted. Item analysis of the V-RQOL and the VDCQ may illustrate coping strategies and functional impairments and provide further information regarding highly variable communicative participation among individuals with SD.
Gel Weight Estimation for Cold-Chain Packaging

Cold-chain packaging is critical to shipments of temperature-sensitive products. The simplest practice is to put products inside an insulated shipping container with a sufficient coolant amount to maintain a certain temperature during the distribution process. In this study, a 12 x 12 x 11½” expanded polystyrene insulated container with 2” wall thickness was used along with non-toxic gel pack coolant. Temperature data was collected under exterior temperature conditions of 60F, 90F, and 113F. The data was plotted and equations were derived for estimating the amount of gel packs needed for a given trip duration, product threshold temperature, and exterior temperature. In addition, Gel Pack Estimator, an Excel application, was developed based on artificial neural network technology.
Does the pediatric hemodynamic cliff exist in response to hemorrhagic shock

Abstract Background The paradigm that children maintain normal blood pressure during hemorrhagic shock until 30%–45% hemorrhage is widely accepted. There are minimal data supporting when decompensation occurs and how a child's vasculature compensates up to that point. We aimed to observe the arterial response to hemorrhage and when mean arterial pressure (MAP) decreased from baseline in pediatric swine. Methods Piglets were hemorrhaged in 20% increments of their total blood volume to 60%. MAP and angiograms of the thoracic aorta (TA) and abdominal arteries were obtained. Percent change in area of the vessels from baseline was calculated. Results Piglets (n = 8) had a differential vasoconstriction starting at 20% hemorrhage (celiac artery 36.3% [31.4–44.6] vs TA 16.7% [10.7–19.1] p = 0.0012). At 40% hemorrhage, the differential vasoconstriction favored shunting blood away from the abdominal visceral branches to the TA (celiac artery 54.7% [36.9–60.6] vs TA 29.5% [23.9–36.2] p = 0.0056 superior mesenteric artery 46.7% [43.9–68.6] vs TA 29.5% [23.9–36.2] p = 0.0100). This was exacerbated at 60% hemorrhage. MAP decreased from baseline at 20% hemorrhage (66.4 ± 6.0 mmHg vs 41.4 ± 10.4 mmHg, p Conclusion In piglets, a differential vasocontriction shunting blood proximally occurred in response to hemorrhage. This did not maintain normal MAP at 20%, 40% or 60% hemorrhage. Level of evidence Level II.
Algorithms for indefinite linear least squares problems

Abstract In this note we compare numerical properties of algorithms for solving unconstrained and linearly constrained indefinite linear least squares problems. We discuss similarities among algorithms and suggest some modifications which result in slight savings in computational costs. Numerical experiments given show that on average all algorithms have comparable accuracy but the accuracy may differ significantly in some cases.
The Waiting Game: It’s Not Over Yet

Likely the most stressful phase of the application process for many applicants is the waiting period after they complete their interviews and await their admissions decisions. While there are no more explicit requirements for applicants to complete during this phase, remaining in contact with MD/PhD program leaders and administrators can help applicants improve their chances of being accepted. If placed on a waitlist or deferred, this can be especially important in securing an ultimate acceptance. This chapter primarily discusses when to send and how to craft a general update letter, a Letter of Intent, where applicants express an informal commitment to matriculate into the program, and a Letter of Interest, where applicants emphasize why they would be a great fit for the school. Lastly, this chapter discusses some important considerations for those who are reapplying to MD/PhD programs.
Pulsatile ventricular assist device as a bridge to transplant for the early high-risk single-ventricle physiology.

Abstract Background The use of ventricular assist devices (VADs) as a bridge-to-transplant in patients with single-ventricle physiology post–stage one palliation has been associated with poor outcomes. We describe our center's successful experience in the use of paracorporeal pulsatile VADs in the palliation of high-risk single ventricle physiology before or after the first stage of palliation with an impetus on pre-palliation implant. Methods This is a single-center retrospective review of univentricular patients implanted with the Berlin Heart EXCOR VAD. Our center's approach includes early implantation of the Berlin Heart EXCOR with common atrial cannulation, a cardiac index between 3.5 and 5 L/min/m2, and a bivalirudin-based anticoagulation regimen. Patient-related data were collected postimplant at week 1 and months 1, 2, and 3. Post-transplant data, including neurological outcomes, were collected. Results Nine patients were supported. Survival to discharge post-transplant was 83% (5/6) in patients bridged-to-transplant and 33% (1/3) in patients bridged-to-decision. Six patients had no previous palliation. Median hospital stay before implantation was 111 days for nonsurvivors versus 20 days for survivors. The need for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and cardiopulmonary resuscitation in nonsurvivors versus survivors was 1 in 3 versus 1 in 6 and 2 in 3 versus 1 in 6, respectively. There were no major central nervous system complications except for 1 significant hemorrhagic event. The pediatric overall performance category score on follow-up was normal to mild disability in 83% of survivors. Limitations include hemolysis and intermittent periods of infection and/or inflammation. Conclusions The use of pulsatile paracorporeal VADs is a feasible option as a bridge-to-transplant in the peri–stage one high-risk single ventricle.
Mitochondrial oxidative function in NAFLD: Friend or foe?

Abstract Background Mitochondrial oxidative function plays a key role in the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and insulin resistance (IR). Recent studies reported that fatty liver might not be a result of decreased mitochondrial fat oxidation caused by mitochondrial damage. Rather, NAFLD and IR induce an elevation in mitochondrial function that covers the increased demand for carbon intermediates and ATP caused by elevated lipogenesis and gluconeogenesis. Furthermore, mitochondria play a role in regulating hepatic insulin sensitivity and lipogenesis by modulating redox-sensitive signaling pathways. Scope of review We review the contradictory studies indicating that NAFLD and hyperglycemia can either increase or decrease mitochondrial oxidative capacity in the liver. We summarize mechanisms regulating mitochondrial heterogeneity inside the same cell and discuss how these mechanisms may determine the role of mitochondria in NAFLD. We further discuss the role of endogenous antioxidants in controlling mitochondrial H2O2 release and redox-mediated signaling. We describe the emerging concept that the subcellular location of cellular antioxidants is a key determinant of their effects on NAFLD. Major conclusions The balance of fat oxidation versus accumulation depends on mitochondrial fuel preference rather than ATP-synthesizing respiration. As such, therapies targeting fuel preference might be more suitable for treating NAFLD. Similarly, suppressing maladaptive antioxidants, rather than interfering with physiological mitochondrial H2O2-mediated signaling, may allow the maintenance of intact hepatic insulin signaling in NAFLD. Exploration of the subcellular compartmentalization of different antioxidant systems and the unique functions of specific mitochondrial subpopulations may offer new intervention points to treat NAFLD.
Reduced complexity of brain and behavior due to MeCP2 disruption and excessive inhibition

ABSTRACT Rett syndrome (RTT) is a devastating neurodevelopmental disorder, caused by disruptions to the MECP2 gene, and resulting in severe cognitive and motor impairment. Previous work strongly suggests that healthy MECP2 function is required to have a normal balance between excitatory and inhibitory neurons. However, the details of how neural circuit dynamics and motor function are disrupted remain unclear. How might imbalanced E/I cause problems for motor function in RTT? We addressed this question in the motor cortex of awake, freely behaving rats, comparing normal rats with a transgenic rat model of RTT. We recorded single-unit spiking activity while simultaneously recording body movement of the rats. We found that RTT rats tend to have excessive synchrony among neurons in the motor cortex and less complex body movements. Importantly, greater synchrony was correlated with greater stereotypy of relationships between neurons and body movements. To further test how our observations were related to an E/I imbalance, we pharmacologically altered inhibitory synaptic interactions. We were able to recapitulate many of the phenomena we found in MECP2-deficient rats by enhancing inhibition in normal rats. Our results suggest that RTT-related E/I imbalance in the motor cortex gives rise to excessive synchrony and, consequently, a stereotyped motor code, which may underlie abnormal motor function in RTT.
Uncertainty Quantification of Metallic Microstructures with Analytical and Machine Learning Based Approaches

Uncertainty in the microstructures has a significant influence on the material properties. The microstructural uncertainty arises from the fluctuations that occur during thermomechanical processing...
Factors Predictive of Emergency Department Visits and Hospitalization Following Thyroidectomy and Parathyroidectomy

This study aimed to determine the incidence and risk factors for emergency department (ED) visits and unplanned hospitalization after thyroid and parathyroid surgery. A retrospective study of all patients who underwent thyroidectomy or parathyroidectomy from 2007 to 2014 was conducted to assess for ED visits or unplanned hospitalization within 30 days after surgery. Uni- and multivariate analyses were used to identify risk factors for ED visits and hospitalization. Of 864 patients who underwent thyroidectomy (n = 673) or parathyroidectomy (n = 191), 96 (11.1 %) had an ED visit and 41 (4.7 %) were hospitalized within 30 days after surgery. Univariate analysis showed hypocalcemia (p = 0.001), younger age (p = 0.02), total thyroidectomy (p = 0.01), and lack of private health insurance (p = 0.005) to be predictive of an ED visit and hypocalcemia (p = 0.0001), Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (p = 0.049), total thyroidectomy (p = 0.005), and African American race (p = 0.03) were predictive of hospitalization after thyroidectomy. Multivariate analysis showed younger age (odds ratio [OR] 1.5 per 10-year decrease in age; p = 0.002; 95 % confidence interval [CI] 1.1–1.8) and Medicare insurance (OR 2.7; p = 0.01; 95 % CI 1.3–5.7) to be independently associated with an ED visit, and hypocalcemia (OR 4.7; p < 0.001; 95 % CI 2.2–11.0) was the only independent factor associated with hospitalization after thyroidectomy. Univariate analysis showed hypocalcemia, renal hyperparathyroidism, and multiglandular disease to be predictive of an ED visit and hospitalization after parathyroidectomy. The sample size for parathyroidectomy was too small for multivariate analysis. Targeted strategies for transitions of care for patients with postoperative hypocalcemia may help to reduce ED visits and hospitalization after thyroidectomy and parathyroidectomy.
Application of the V(R) resistance curve method to fracture of various crack configurations

The fracture resistance curve method of Newman (1985), based on the crack-tip-opening displacement, V(R), for a 'stationary' crack, was applied to various crack configurations in 2024-T351 and 7075-T651 aluminum alloys tested at room temperature. Using a stationary crack solution, the crack-tip-displacement was calculated at the current crack length for the crack configurations which included compact, middle-crack, single-edge-crack, and three-hole-crack tension specimens. The results showed that the V(R) resistance curves are insensitive to crack length, specimen width, and specimen type up to maximum load. After the maximum load is reached, the V(R) remains nearly constant; this constant depends only on specimen type, specimen width, and crack length. The V(R) resistance curve method can be used with the strip-yield analyses to accurately predict stable crack growth and instability of cracked metallic materials.
The Gulf crisis: Implications for political stability in the middle‐east

(1991). The Gulf crisis: Implications for political stability in the middle‐east. Cambridge Review of International Affairs: Vol. 5, No. 2, pp. 34-44.
The Right Frame of Mind for M&A: The Impact of Merger Characteristics on M&A Deal Frames

According to agency theory, including performance-based consideration (earnout clauses) in the merger contract should align parent and retained target management incentives, leading to better merger performance. Yet, earnouts are frequently not paid out because retained target management fail to reach the performance milestones specified in the contingent provision. So, why does incentive alignment fail? The decision-making literature offers a possible explanation for the inconsistency. Prospect theory suggests that the performance contingent consideration in an earnout clause may be framed as a potential loss or gain, leading retained target management to display risk-seeking or risk-averse behavior. Risk-seeking or risk-averse behavior may positively or negatively impact merger outcomes, depending on the merger characteristics. In this paper, I examine whether specific merger characteristics, including parent’s customer strategy and characteristics of the target’s technology, impact if the M&A deal value is framed in terms of total consideration (earnout is perceived as a potential loss) or guaranteed consideration (earnout is perceived as a potential gain).
Adaptive Reduced-Rank Interference Suppression for MIMO Decoding

We present an adaptive reduced-rank solution for robust decoding of spatial multiplexed multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) wireless communications using the multi-stage Wiener filter (MSWF). The huge spectral efficiency gains promised by spatial multiplexing schemes, such as vertical Bell Labs space time (V-BLAST) and space-division multiple access (SDMA), are difficult to realize for less than ideal channel conditions. This is particularly true for military applications where extreme channel conditions such as co-channel interference and intentional jamming can be expected. We show that the MSWF, first proposed by Goldstein and Reed for sensor array application, as combined here with spatial multiplexing decoding method successive interference (SIC) leads to significant signal subspace compression or rank-reduction. As a result our solution converges much faster than full rank methods permitting shorter training length and robustness to co-channel interference and jamming. Also, significant computational reduction is realized making this method a good candidate for portable applications where computational resources are limited. We also present a novel rank-reduction stopping rule which adapts to channel condition. Bit error rate (BER) versus SNR for the correlated channel and for co-channel interference and SINR versus the MSWF rank-reduction and length of training interval are presented
System identification algorithm using phasors

In this paper, an innovative System Identification approach is applied in the frequency domain, where phasor measurements, as provided by frequency analyzers, are used. This algorithm is obtained through a careful analysis of the physics of the measurement situation, following which the machinery of minimum variance estimation is applied in a linear regression framework. This process renders an efficient pseudo-minimum variance algorithm that is of linear prediction type and is superior to least squares-based methods. The simulation experiments are carefully performed, and the conditions are fully documented.
Benchmarking in water project analysis

[1] The with/without principle of cost-benefit analysis is examined for the possible bias that it brings to water resource planning. Theory and examples for this question are established. Because benchmarking against the demonstrably low without-project hurdle can detract from economic welfare and can fail to promote efficient policy, improvement opportunities are investigated. In lieu of the traditional, without-project benchmark, a second-best-based “difference-making benchmark” is proposed. The project authorizations and modified review processes instituted by the U.S. Water Resources Development Act of 2007 may provide for renewed interest in these findings.
Chemodetection and Destruction of Host Urea Allows Helicobacter pylori to Locate the Epithelium

The gastric pathogen Helicobacter pylori interacts intimately with the gastric mucosa to avoid the microbicidal acid in the stomach lumen. The cues H. pylori senses to locate and colonize the gastric epithelium have not been well defined. We show that metabolites emanating from human gastric organoids rapidly attract H. pylori. This response is largely controlled by the bacterial chemoreceptor TlpB, and the main attractant emanating from epithelia is urea. Our previous structural analyses show that TlpB binds urea with high affinity. Here we demonstrate that this tight binding controls highly sensitive responses, allowing detection of urea concentrations as low as 50 nM. Attraction to urea requires that H. pylori urease simultaneously destroys the signal. We propose that H. pylori has evolved a sensitive urea chemodetection and destruction system that allows the bacterium to dynamically and locally modify the host environment to locate the epithelium.
Things Have Changed: Looking at Non-Institutional Mental Disability Law Through the Sanism Filter

Almost all the literature about the influence of sanism and pretextuality on the development of mental disability law has dealt with questions of institutionalization and the rights of persons who are subject to commitment to in-patient psychiatric hospitals. Problems of mental disability, however, are not solely institutional problems. A significant percentage of the public - the vast majority of whom will never be in peril of institutionalization - exhibit some sort of serious mental illness during their lifetime. A much larger percentage exhibits some sign of mental disability or mental disorder. And this population - like the rest of the population - frequently has problems that require resolution by a lawyer and the legal system, among them, contract problems, property problems, domestic relations problems, and trusts and estates problems. In this paper, I consider why there has been so little literature dealing with these issues, and call on scholars to turn their attention to the way that sanism and pretextuality infect this aspect of mental disability law as well.
Studies on Gonococcus Infection IX. In Vitro Decreased Association of Pilated Gonococci with Mouse Peritoneal Macrophages

Abstract Pili, in addition to enhancing attachment of gonococci to tissue culture cells, appear to reduce association (attachment/ingestion) of Neisseria gonorrhoeae with mouse peritoneal macrophages in vitro.
Atopic dermatitis: Kids are not just little people

The approach to children and adults with atopic dermatitis is similar. In both age groups, failure to respond to conventional therapy should prompt evaluation for complicating factors such as secondary infection and secondary ACD. Immunologic, metabolic, genetic, and nutritional disorders should be considered in the differential diagnosis of refractory pediatric atopic dermatitis. Cutaneous T cell lymphoma (CTCL), cutaneous drug reactions, other spongiotic dermatoses, psoriasis, dermatomycosis, and infestations should be considered in the differential of refractory atopic dermatitis in adults. Systemic therapies prescribed to both children and adults with severe atopic dermatitis include oral corticosteroids, cyclosporine, methotrexate, azathioprine, and mycophenolate mofetil.
Simultaneous water adsorption from ethyl alcohol and oil extraction from corn

Abstract Energy-efficient dewatering of fermentation ethyl alcohol is essential whether the alcohol is for fuel or chemical use. Adsorption of water on dried grain such as corn is one method that can meet this objective. Adsorption of water from liquid solutions containing 88–95 wt% ethyl alcohol onto fixed beds of unrefined corn is described here. Water adsorption capacity was 40–50% of the theoretical value for perfectly selective adsorption of water, but still adequate so that the water-saturated grain used in adsorption could also be feedstock to the fermentation, Cincurrent with the dewatering of the ethyl-alcohol by the corn grain, curde corn oil was extracted by the ethyl alcohol. When the capacity of the grain for producing anhydrous alcohol was reached, up to 80% of the oil had been extracted. Benefits include improved energy efficiency for the complete conversion of grain to anhydrous ethyl-alcohols as compared to existing methods, a 7% gain in the fuel value of products relative to conversions where no oil is recovered, and a potential for increased product diversity in small-scale operations where only ethyl alcohol is usually produced.
Neon and oxygen absolute abundances in the solar corona

In the present work we use the UV spectrum of a solar flare observed with SOHO SUMER to measure the absolute abundance of Ne in the solar atmosphere. The measurement is carried out using the intensity ratio between the allowed 1s2s 3S1-1s2p 3P2 Ne IX line at 1248.28 A and the free-free continuum radiation observed close to the Ne IX line. We find a value of the absolute Ne abundance ANe = 8.11 ± 0.12, in agreement with previous estimates but substantially higher than the very recent estimate by Asplund et al. based on the oxygen photospheric abundance and the Ne/O relative abundance. Considering our measured ANe value, we argue that the absolute oxygen abundance of Asplund et al. is too low by a factor 1.9. This result has important consequences for models of the solar interior based on helioseismology measurements, as well as on the FIP bias determination of the solar upper atmosphere, solar wind, and solar energetic particles.
Row spacing, tillage system, and herbicide technology affects cotton plant growth and yield

Abstract Cotton ( Gossypium hirsutum L.) producers are faced with numerous production choices including cotton varieties, herbicide technology, tillage systems, and row spacing. A study was conducted to compare cotton production across conventional, glyphosate-tolerant, and glufosinate-tolerant varieties in both conventional and conservation tillage systems for standard row (102 cm) and narrow row (38 cm) cotton planting patterns. The experiment was conducted during the 2004–2006 growing seasons at the Field Crops Unit, E.V. Smith Research Center, near Shorter, AL in long-term tillage plots. Data collection included plant populations within row spacings, plant biomass and height at 1st square, mid-bloom, and lint yields. Plant biomass measured at 1st square and mid-bloom was affected by growing season with 38 cm cotton plant biomass averaging 34% greater in 2004 and 2005, however, the effect of tillage system was contradictory within the growing season. Mid-bloom plant biomass also varied across growing seasons with 21% more plant biomass recorded in 38 cm rows averaged across all three growing seasons. Plant heights were shorter for 38 cm cotton compared to 102 cm cotton, regardless of growth stage or tillage system. No differences in cotton development were observed across varieties. Cotton planted in 38 cm rows yielded equivalent to 102 cm cotton during two of the three experimental years and was superior to 102 cm cotton the remaining year, which corresponded to the best growing season observed during the experimental period. These results indicate that 38 cm cotton production can produce yields that are at least equivalent to standard 102 cm cotton, despite differences in plant development. The productivity of a narrow row cotton production system may be attractive to some growers, but economic evaluations are required to determine if the system is profitable on a large scale based on equivalent or marginal lint yield increases.
Transesterification of oxo-osmium(VI) ligand complexes of thymine derivatives

Abstract We have measured the rate of transesterification reactions between glycols (LO′) and oxo-osmium(VI) esters formed from thymine derivatives and a variety of nitrogen-containing ligands, LOMLN, according to the equation: LOMLN + LO′ LO′MLN + LO. We have also measured the rates of transesterification for this system with the addition of external nitrogen-containing ligands, LN′. The order of effectiveness of the nitrogen-containing ligands in slowing the rate of transesterification is different depending on whether the ligand is present in the ester (LN) or whether it is added externally (LN′). Bathophenanthroline disulfonic acid is the most effective ligand when present in the ester. It forms exceptionally inert complexes. N,N,N′,N′-Tetramethylethylenediamine is the most effective ligand when added externally. The order of effectiveness of the nitrogen-containing ligand does not depend on the nature of either LO or LO′ but the nature of the glycol affects both the rate and the equilibria. We present mechanistic proposals, with limiting assumptions, to account for our findings.
Best Nonspherical Symmetric Low Rank Approximation

The symmetry preserving singular value decomposition (SPSVD) produces the best symmetric (low rank) approximation to a set of data. These symmetric approximations are characterized via an invariance under the action of a symmetry group on the set of data. The symmetry groups of interest consist of all the nonspherical symmetry groups in three dimensions. This set includes the rotational, reflectional, dihedral, and inversion symmetry groups. In order to calculate the best symmetric (low rank) approximation, the symmetry of the data set must be determined. Therefore, matrix representations for each of the nonspherical symmetry groups have been formulated. These new matrix representations lead directly to a novel reweighting iterative method to determine the symmetry of a given data set by solving a series of minimization problems. Once the symmetry of the data set is found, the best symmetric (low rank) approximation in the Frobenius norm and matrix 2-norm can be established by using the SPSVD.
General Approach to the Synthesis of Polyquinanes. Preparation of trans,trans‐ 4,8‐Diacetoxy‐tetracyclo[9.3.0.01,5.07,11]tetradeca‐6‐one via the Aldol Approach.

Abstract The synthesis of polyquinane 2 is described. The key steps were the Wolff-Kishner reduction of 8b to provide 10b , and the acetic, sulfuric acid-mediated aldol cyclizatlon to convert the bisacetal 11 into the target 2 . Olefin isomerization during the Wolff-Kishner reduction was overcome by addition of Ag2CO3.
Obesity and early mortality in the United States

Objective: Although obesity is a serious public health problem, there are few reliable measures of its health hazards in the United States. The objective of this study was to estimate how much earlier mortality is likely to occur for Americans who are obese (body mass index [BMI], ≥ 30). Design and Methods: Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) I (1971–1975), NHANES II (1976–1980), and NHANES III (1988–1994) for 37,632 participants who experienced 8,791 deaths during 15 years of follow-up were prospectively analyzed. The relative risk of death from all causes and its advancement period, adjusted for covariates, were calculated. Stratification was used to investigate the effects of pre-existing illness, smoking, and older age on the advancement period. Results: Compared to the participants of reference weight (BMI, 23 to 21 years between 1988 and 1994. Without stratifying simultaneously for preexisting illness, smoking, and age, values of the advancement period for obesity were markedly smaller than those observed for healthy nonsmoker young and middle-aged adults. Conclusions: For healthy nonsmokers young- and middle-aged adults who constitute about one-third of American adults, being obese is likely to hasten mortality by 9.44 years.
The role of block allocation and surgery duration predictability on operating room utilization

Planning for sufficient surgical capacity at a hospital requires that tactical and operational decisions be made before the day of surgery. Typically, blocks of time in operating rooms (ORs) are assigned and specific surgical cases are placed in rooms. The hospital monitors utilization to determine the schedule's effectiveness in balancing the risk of overtime with idle time. We examine how adjusting schedule risk ratios and penalty values, and providing shared, open posting time affected the hospital's ability to identify an efficient but high quality and low cost block schedule. The proposed schedules were tested by assigning surgical cases to ORs and simulating the schedule's performance using recent data from a local hospital. We also show how scheduling accuracy can impact the performance level of the schedules proposed.
An experimental verification of the compensation of length change of line scales caused by ambient air pressure

Line scales are used as a working standard of length for the calibration of optical measuring instruments such as profile projectors, measuring microscopes and video measuring systems. The authors have developed a one-dimensional calibration system for line scales to obtain a lower uncertainty of measurement. The scale calibration system, named Standard Scale Calibrator SSC-05, employs a vacuum interferometer system for length measurement, a 633 nm iodine-stabilized He?Ne laser to calibrate the oscillating frequency of the interferometer laser light source and an Abbe's error compensation structure. To reduce the uncertainty of measurement, the uncertainty factors of the line scale and ambient conditions should not be neglected. Using the length calibration system, the expansion and contraction of a line scale due to changes in ambient air pressure were observed and the measured scale length was corrected into the length under standard atmospheric pressure, 1013.25 hPa. Utilizing a natural rapid change in the air pressure caused by a tropical storm (typhoon), we carried out an experiment on the length measurement of a 1000 mm long line scale made of glass ceramic with a low coefficient of thermal expansion. Using a compensation formula for the length change caused by changes in ambient air pressure, the length change of the 1000 mm long line scale was compensated with a standard deviation of less than 1 nm.