cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Stylized keyframe animation of fluid simulations

We present a method that combines hand-drawn artwork with fluid simulations to produce animated fluids in the visual style of the artwork. Given a fluid simulation and a set of keyframes rendered by the artist in any medium, our system produces a set of in-betweens that visually matches the style of the keyframes and roughly follows the motion from the underlying simulation. Our method leverages recent advances in patch-based regenerative morphing and image melding to produce temporally coherent sequences with visual fidelity to the target medium. Because direct application of these methods results in motion that is generally not fluid-like, we adapt them to produce motion closely matching that of the underlying simulation. The resulting animation is visually and temporally coherent, stylistically consistent with the given keyframes, and approximately matches the motion from the simulation. We demonstrate the method with animations in a variety of visual styles.
Hemopexin in severe inflammation and infection: mouse models and human diseases

Introduction: Cell-free plasma hemoglobin is associated with poor outcome in patients with sepsis. Extracellular hemoglobin and secondarily released heme amplify inflammation in the presence of microbial TLR ligands and/or endogenous mediators. Hemopexin, a plasma protein that binds heme with extraordinary affinity, blocks these effects and has been proposed as a possible treatment approach to decrease inflammation in critically ill patients. Methods: We studied mouse models of endotoxemia, burn wound infections and peritonitis in order to assess if a repletion strategy for hemopexin might be reasonable. We also measured hemopexin in small numbers of three patient populations that might be logical groups for hemopexin therapy: patients with sepsis and ARDS, patients with severe burns, and premature infants. Results: Despite severe disease, mean plasma hemopexin levels were increased above baseline in each murine model. However, plasma hemopexin levels were decreased or markedly decreased in many patients in each of the three patient populations. Conclusions: Potentially different behavior of hemopexin in mice and humans may be important to consider when utilizing murine models to represent acute human inflammatory diseases in which heme plays a role. The findings raise the possibility that decreased hemopexin could result in insufficiently neutralized or cleared heme in some patients with ARDS, burns, or in premature infants who might be candidates to benefit from hemopexin administration.
Distributed Detection of Attacks in Mobile Ad Hoc Networks Using Learning Vector Quantization

This paper describes the latest results of a research program that is designed to enhance the security of wireless mobile ad hoc networks (MANET) by developing a distributed intrusion detection capability. The current approach uses learning vector quantization neural networks that have the ability to identify patterns of network attacks in a distributed manner. This capability enables this approach to demonstrate a distributed analysis functionality that facilitates the detection of complex attacks against MANETs. The results of the evaluation of the approach and a discussion of additional areas of research is presented.
A high-resolution silicon monolithic nozzle array for inkjet printing

This paper describes a high-resolution monolithic nozzle array for inkjet printing. The nozzles are fabricated using a bulk anisotropic etching technology to undercut a network of highly-boron-doped silicon support ribs, forming an array of microchannels which are then sealed using thermal oxidation and LPCVD dielectrics. Closely-spaced trapezoidal or triangular nozzles are realized after cutting the wafer perpendicular to the microtubes. With a 21-/spl mu/m nozzle width and a 4-/spl mu/m nozzle-to-nozzle separation, a resolution of 1016 dots per inch (d/in) can be achieved. Polysilicon heaters are integrated on top of each microchannel so that when activated, the underlying ink is vaporized and a drop of ink is expelled to impinge on the paper. The fabrication of this device requires only five masks and is compatible with the addition of on-chip circuitry for multiplexing the heater control signals. Heat transfer efficiency to the ink is enhanced by the high thermal conductivity of the silicon ribs in the channel ceiling, while the bulk silicon maintains high interchannel isolation. Current pulses 20 /spl mu/s wide with a power density of 3.35/spl times/10/sup 8/ W/m/sup 2/ have been used in initial printing tests, resulting in 20-/spl mu/m diameter ink dots on a piece of paper which was set 2 mm away from the nozzle. The energy required to fire an ink drop is 11.5 /spl mu/J.
Sex differences in phenotypic plasticity of a mechanism that controls body size: implications for sexual size dimorphism

The degree and/or direction of sexual size dimorphism (SSD) varies considerably among species and among populations within species. Although this variation is in part genetically based, much of it is probably due to the sexes exhibiting differences in body size plasticity. Here, we use the hawkmoth, Manduca sexta, to test the hypothesis that moths reared on different diet qualities and at different temperatures will exhibit sex-specific body size plasticity. In addition, we explore the proximate mechanisms that potentially create sex-specific plasticity by examining three physiological variables known to regulate body size in this insect: the growth rate, the critical weight (which measures the cessation of juvenile hormone secretion from the corpora allata) and the interval to cessation of growth (ICG; which measures the time interval between the critical weight and the secretion of the ecdysteroids that regulate pupation and metamorphosis). We found that peak larval mass of males and females did not exhibit sex-specific plasticity in response to diet or temperature. However, the sexes did exhibit sex-specific plasticity in the mechanism that controls size; males and females exhibited sex-specific plasticity in the growth rate and the critical weight in response to both diet and temperature, whereas the ICG only exhibited sex-specific plasticity in response to diet. Our results suggest it is important for the sexes to maintain the same degree of SSD across environments and that this is accomplished by the sexes exhibiting differential sensitivity of the physiological factors that determine body size to environmental variation.
Low Power Wireless Communication via Reinforcement Learning

This paper examines the application of reinforcement learning to a wireless communication problem. The problem requires that channel utility be maximized while simultaneously minimizing battery usage. We present a solution to this multi-criteria problem that is able to significantly reduce power consumption. The solution uses a variable discount factor to capture the effects of battery usage.
Exact power and sample size for vaccine efficacy studies

In vaccine efficacy studies the goal is to show that the vaccine reduces the incidence of the disease compared to placebo. In this report we describe two procedures for calculating sample size and powei based on exact distributions In small studies where the disease incidence and the anticipated vaccine efficacy are both high, an unconditional exact procedure is desirable because it guarantees the level of the test and loses little sensitivity. In large studies where the disease incidence is rare, a Poisson approximation to the number of events is reasonable and an exact test is simple to construct conditional on the total number of events. We compare the power and type I error rate of these two exact methods to the method based on the normal approximation for varying disease incidence and sample size.
Aspirating and filtering atherothrombotic debris during percutaneous coronary intervention.

The coronary “no-reflow” phenomenon can occur during reperfusion of an infarct artery or after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) ([1][1]). It represents inadequate myocardial perfusion despite epicardial coronary artery patency and can be caused by reperfusion injury, embolization of
Both Personal and Public: Measuring Interethnic Marriage Attitudes

In this article, we examine a new survey measure called the “grid item” that we designed to assess personal willingness to engage in interethnic marriage, rather than approval of intergroup relations for an abstract other, while also mitigating social desirability pressures to respond in favor of intermarriage. Using three waves of 2006–2008 Cooperative Congressional Election Study (CCES) data (Ns range from 727 to 2,731 over waves and across survey items), we compare results from the grid item to those of several other common survey techniques. Our findings suggest that responses to the grid item, which separates personal from general willingness to intermarry, are less influenced by social desirability bias than the traditional survey item. In 2007, for example, 75% of Whites approved of Black-White intermarriage when asked using a traditional question, while only 49% of White males and 39% of White females expressed willingness to marry a Black person when asked with the grid item in 2008. We also show how approval of intermarriage for a generalized “other” is significantly greater than personal willingness to consider an interracial relationship, particularly among White women. We conclude that research on attitudes toward and engagement in interethnic marriage must distinguish personal from generalized attitudes. Measuring these types of attitudes accurately is important for guiding and assessing social policy on racial integration in schools, neighborhoods, and workplaces.
Nitrogen metabolism in mature horses at varying levels of work.

Nitrogen metabolism was measured in five mature geldings performing varying levels of work that simulated race training. Following an initial maintenance period without forced exercise, workload was increased in succeeding 18-d periods by doubling the distance the horses were galloped in each period from period 2 through 4. A 4-d N balance experiment was conducted at the end of each 18-d period. The maximum distance galloped daily, which was in period 4, was repeated in period 5. Then, workloads were decreased through period 7. Nitrogen balance was determined in two additional periods, 8 and 9, while the geldings were at maintenance with no forced exercise. Geldings were fed diets containing similar protein-to-calorie ratios in all periods. Nitrogen retention increased (P less than .05) as workload increased from period 1 to period 3 and remained elevated throughout the rest of the experiment. Nitrogen retention did not (P greater than .05) decrease from highest values, observed at maximum workload during periods 4 and 5, until period 9, which was 34 d postexercise during a maintenance period. Nitrogen retention was higher (P less than .05) following training than before training.
Recycling Efficiencies of Organic Carbon, Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Reduced Sulfur in Rapidly Depositing Coastal Sediments

This paper summarizes the results of detailed field studies of C,N,P and S cycling in the anoxic sediments of a small coastal lagoon, Cape Lookout Bight (CLB), located on the Outer Banks barrier island chain of North Carolina (U.S.A.). These results are utilized to illustrate the efficiency of the principal processes controlling the biogeochemical cycling of each element, including factors leading to their differential release to overlying waters and preservation via burial. The Cape Lookout site is particularly well suited for studies of elemental cycling in organic-rich sediments because of the steady-state nature of annual sediment accumulation occurring since the mid-1960’s and the relative lack of physical disturbances via bioturbation or resuspension of the sediment column. Comparison of Cape Lookout results with those from other sedimentary environments leads to important insights concerning how the biogeochemical cycles of C, N, P and S interact.
Migration and Occupational Mobility: A Research Note

This paper investigates whether migration promotes occupational mobility and whether different types of migrants benefit equally from the migration experience. Results from a lagged regression mode...
Mouse interleukin-12/FasTI: A novel bi-functional fusion protein for cancer immuno/gene therapy

Whereas cancer immunotherapy with cytokines in recent research was demonstrated effective in activating immune response against tumor cells, one major obstacle with the use of these cytokines is their severe side effects when delivered systemically at high doses. Another challenge is that advanced tumor cells often evade immunosurveillance of the immune system as well as of the Fas-mediated apoptosis by various mechanisms. We report the design and preliminary evaluation of the antitumor activity of a novel fusion protein-mIL-12/FasTI, consisting of mouse interleukin-12 and the transmembrane and intracellular domains of mouse Fas. The fusion construct (pmIL-12/FasTI) was transfected into mouse lung carcinoma cell line TC-1. Stable cell clones expressing the fusion protein were established as assayed by RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry. ELISA and cell proliferation analyses demonstrated that NK cells were effectively activated by the fusion protein with increased IFN-γ production and cytotoxicity. Enhanced caspase-3 activity of the clones when co-cultured with NK cells indicated that apoptosis was induced through Fas/FasL signaling pathway. The preliminary results suggest a synergized anticancer activity of the fusion protein. It may represent a promising therapeutic agent for cancer treatment.
Income Inequality, Incarceration, and Black-White Poverty Rate Differentials

This paper attempts to analyze and isolate the effects of income inequality on the difference between poverty rates amongst the Black and White population by state in 2010, using each state’s GINI coefficient estimate as the inequality measurement. In addition, the author proposes an alternative income distribution measurement to try and further interpret the effects of a particular state’s income allocation on its poverty rate differential. This paper will also discuss, and attempt to quantify, other factors that could affect disparity in poverty rates between Black and White Americans, such as incarceration rates. The author finds that there is some evidence that a higher state GINI coefficient corresponded with a smaller magnitude of difference between Black and White poverty rates, while a higher variance in allocation amongst income brackets corresponded with an increase in the magnitude of the poverty rate differential. This article is available in The Review: A Journal of Undergraduate Student Research: http://fisherpub.sjfc.edu/ur/vol17/iss1/7 Inequality, Incarceration, and Black-White Poverty Rate Differentials
Patterns in the percent sediment organic matter of arctic lakes

Patterns of sediment organic matter deposition in lakes reflect the factors that affect the production of organic matter in the lake and watershed and the removal of organic matter from the sediments. We surveyed the percent sediment organic matter of 22 lakes in the Alaskan Arctic and the rate of organic matter loss with sediment age in 3 lakes in the same region. The variation in sediment organic matter among lakes was greater than the variation between shallow and deep locations within the same lake, which is consistent with landscape-scale control of variation in sediment organic matter. In shallow water sediments, percent sediment organic matter was positively correlated with the amount of light reaching the sediments and the concentration of dissolved oxygen in the overlying water, suggesting that differences in organic matter content reflect differences in benthic production. The percent organic matter of the sediments in deep water was correlated with the percent organic matter in the sediments from shallow water but not environmental variables. The results suggest that variation in sediment organic matter in this region may be influenced by variation in benthic organic matter production more than by the loss of organic matter via mineralization.
Compactly Supported Wavelets

The objective of this chapter is three-fold: firstly to discuss the theory and methods for the construction of compactly supported wavelets, including both orthogonal and biorthogonal wavelets as well as their corresponding scaling functions; secondly to study the stability and smoothness properties of these basis functions; and thirdly to investigate the details in the derivation of fast computational algorithms, the lifting schemes, for the implementation of wavelet decompositions and reconstructions. To accomplish this goal, our preliminary task is to introduce the concept of the transition operator \(T_p\), along with its representation matrix \(\mathcal{T }_p \), associated with a given finite sequence \(p\), as well as to study the properties of the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the matrix \(\mathcal{T }_p\). This will be discussed in Sect. 9.1, which also includes the Fundamental Lemma of transition operators that will be applied in the next chapter to prove the existence of the refinable function \(\phi \in L_2(\mathbb{R })\) with \(p\) as its refinement mask, as well as to characterize the stability of \(\phi \), again in terms of the transition operator.
Stability of one-dimensional natural-circulation flows

Natural circulation is important for the long-term cooling of light water reactors in off-normal conditions, and it is therefore important to understand the numerical behavior of reactor safety codes used to simulate flows under those conditions. While the methods and models in these codes have been studied in some detail, the impact of the weight force term on the numerical behavior has been largely ignored. The dynamic and numerical stability of the one-dimensional, single-phase-flow equations are examined for natural-circulation problems. It is shown that the presence of the weight force in the momentum equation results in a minimum value of the frictional loss coefficient for the equations to be stable. It is further shown that the numerical solution is unstable unless this dynamic stability limit is satisfied. The stability limits developed are verified by numerical solution of the single-phase-flow equations under natural-circulation conditions.
Measuring the Welfare Impact of Biofuel Policies: A Review of Methods and Findings from Numerical Models

The welfare impact of biofuel policies in the US has received considerable attention in the past several years due to the cost of these policies as well as their possible contribution to rising food prices and deforestation. This chapter discusses the various modeling approaches used to measure the welfare impact of biofuel policies and summarizes findings of the literature on the subject. Welfare analyses of biofuel policies have evolved with changing regulation and new findings about the economic and environmental impacts of biofuel policies. Future research is needed to address the long-term welfare implications of biofuel policies on energy security.
Applications of Isothermal Titration Calorimetry to Lectin–Carbohydrate Interactions

Publisher Summary The biological activities of lectins appear to be primarily due to their carbohydrate-binding properties. Thus, determination of the mechanisms of binding and specificities of lectins for carbohydrates and glycoconjugates provides insight into their biological properties. Historically, the relative affinities and specificities of lectins for carbohydrates were first addressed using hemagglutination inhibition, equilibrium dialysis, and quantitative precipitation inhibition techniques. Additionally techniques including gradient affinity chromatography, nuclear magnetic resonance, and surface plasmon resonance have been used. However, all of these methods either suffer from being indirect measurements of binding constants or have special conditions required for the measurements. The major advantage of isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) in determining quantitative binding constants for carbohydrate—lectin interactions is that it provides direct determination of the association constant (K a) for binding of unmodified molecules in solution by measuring their heat of binding. ITC also provides the stoichiometry of binding and all thermodynamic binding parameters. This chapter provides selective examples of the application of ITC to lectin—carbohydrate interactions including multivalent interactions.
Abstract A74: Genetic polymorphisms in MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-3, MMP-8, MMP-9, MMP-14, RECK, TIMP-1, TIMP-3, and TIMP-4 and prostate cancer susceptibility and aggressivenes among African American men

One-third of cancers among men each year will be prostate cancer. The risk and mortality of prostate cancer varies significantly across ethnic groups, in the United States; African American men have the highest rates. These population differences suggest genetics may play an important role. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) modulate cell proliferation, apoptosis, and host immune surveillance. In addition, MMPs have the capacity to promote cell migration and tumour invasion by degradation of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinsases (TIMPs) and the reversion-inducing cysteine-rich protein with Kazal motifs (RECK) regulate MMP activity and have been shown to play important roles in several types of cancer initiation and aggressiveness. Here we examined the association between MMP, TIMP, and RECK polymorphisms and prostate cancer susceptibility and aggressiveness. A total of 88 SNPs were genotyped in 575 men, self-described as African American (controls=318, cases=257), using MALDI-TOF Mass spectrometry analysis (Sequenom Inc., San Diego, CA). We found a strong association between several genetic variants, particulary in MMP-2, and susceptabiltiy to prostate cancer. The presence of the minor allele for snps rs243866 (Pemp=0.006), rs243865 (Pemp=0.0004), rs2285052 (Pemp=0.01), and rs243864 (Pemp=0.001) reduced the risk of prostate cancer while for rs243830 (Pemp=0.05) the risk was increased. In addition, we found a marginal association between rs41427445 in MMP-9 and increased risk of prostate cancer (OR=2.7, Pemp=0.05). Previous studies showed a decrease in promoter activity for the rs243865 minor allele, which disrupted an Sp1-binding site and an association with breast cancer risk (OR=0.46, p=
Anti-GD2 mAbs and next-generation mAb-based agents for cancer therapy

Tumor-specific monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have demonstrated efficacy in the clinic, becoming an important approach for cancer immunotherapy. Due to its limited expression on normal tissue, the GD2 disialogangloside expressed on neuroblastoma cells is an excellent candidate for mAb therapy. In 2015, dinutuximab (an anti-GD2 mAb) was approved by the US FDA and is currently used in a combination immunotherapeutic regimen for the treatment of children with high-risk neuroblastoma. Here, we review the extensive preclinical and clinical development of anti-GD2 mAbs and the different mechanisms by which they mediate tumor cell killing. In addition, we discuss different mAb-based strategies that capitalize on the targeting ability of anti-GD2 mAbs to potentially deliver, as monotherapy, or in combination with other treatments, improved antitumor efficacy.
Rethinking the Meaning of Self-Interest, Rational Choice, Growth and Happiness: How the Misunderstanding of These Concepts Caused Misery for Millions

This paper examines four terms that are used a great deal by economists and demonstrates that they are often misunderstood. Not fully comprehending the meaning of these terms can result in serious problems for society. Thus, Greenspan admitted that not knowing how self-interest works resulted in the Great Recession of 2008. Other terms analyzed in this paper include rational choice, growth, and happiness.
Distribution of “Attached” Salmonella typhimurium Cells Between Poultry Skin and a Surface Film Following Water Immersion

Poultry skin was immersed in a saline solution (0.85%) containing 108 Salmonella typhimurium/ml. After 0.25 min, 95% of the water uptake was in a surface film and 5% in the skin. After immersion for 30 and 60 min, a significant increase in total water uptake occurred at each immersion time. A significant increase in the surface film occurred after 30 min of immersion, but not from 30 to 60 min. After 0.25 min of immersion, 94% of bacterial cells was entrapped in the water film and 6% was on the skin. As immersion time increased, the percentage of bacteria in the surface film decreased, whereas the percentage on the skin increased. After 60 min of immersion, about 39% of bacterial cells was in the surface film and 61% was on the skin. These data indicate a possible transfer of water and bacteria from surface film to skin during prolonged water immersion. Preventing the formation of the surface film by altering surface tension may reduce carcass contamination during immersion processes.
El silencio del hambre : Figuras de la carencia en Antonio José Ponte

Mi estudio explora la carencia como figura de la imaginacion en "Las comidas profundas" y "El libro perdido de los origenistas", ensayos de Antonio Jose Ponte publicados en entre 1997 y 2002. El estudio conjunto de estas dos obras y como estas se relacionan a traves de las figuras o tropos de la carencia nos ayuda a comprender la compleja huella de "Origenes" en la obra de Ponte. Si bien en "Las comidas profundas" el autor asimila una estetica origenista que conjura imagenes del hambre como metonimia del deseo, el "El libro perdido" la poetica del autor gira en torno a una carencia que es a su vez existencial y material. El estudio de estos dos ensayos nos ayuda a comprender los nexos de Ponte con el origenismo (1944-1959) asi como tambien con su presente de escritor en la Cuba de finales del siglo XX.
Shifting alliances and balance of power in Asia: transitions in the Indo-Russian security ties

ABSTRACTAlthough officially non-aligned during the Cold War, India remained closely aligned with the Soviet Union. After the Cold War, Indo-Russian ties have remained strong; currently the two countries share a Strategic Partnership in addition to numerous other bilateral treaties. When the United States first replaced Russia as India’s largest defence supplier, it made international headlines in security circles. Since then, there has been much speculation on the future of Indo-Russian ties. Since the essence of the Indo-Russian relationship is considered to be the large-scale military trade between the two states, the toppling of Russia as India’s premier defence provider naturally led to dismal predictions about the strength of their future ties. However, this approach discounts the various measures that both India and Russia have taken to institutionalize their friendship. By conducting a systematic analysis of the Indo-Russian bilateral treaties, this article assesses the levels of cooperation within...
Self-determination theory and intimate partner violence (IPV): Assessment of relationship causality orientations as predictors of IPV perpetration

Abstract Much research examines potential antecedents of intimate partner violence (IPV) perpetration. The current manuscript suggests that motivation orientations, as conceptualized by self-determination theory, may be a useful framework for understanding why some people engage in reactive IPV perpetration. Studies 1a (N = 572) and 1b (N = 265) developed, based on self-determination theory, the Relationship Causality Orientation Scale (RCOS), assessing autonomous, controlled, and impersonal motivation orientations toward romantic relationships. Studies 2 (N = 324) and 3 (N = 274) examined associations between the RCOS and different operationalizations of IPV. In Study 2, results showed that autonomous orientation predicted lower, and controlled orientation predicted higher, likelihood of IPV perpetration. Study 3 experimentally primed partner transgression and employed a voodoo doll task. Results showed that autonomous orientation predicted less IPV perpetration, and inserting fewer pins into the voodoo doll, while controlled orientation predicted more IPV perpetration and inserting more pins into the voodoo doll.
Evaluation of Sensitivity of Ultrasonic Detection of Delaminations in Graphite/Epoxy Laminates

A study was conducted to evaluate, improve and optimize ultrasonic techniques for the detection of tight delaminations in composite laminates. Four graphite/epoxy panels were investigated using matched pairs of compression and shear wave ultrasonic transducers of three frequencies (1, 2.25 and 5MHz). Pulse echo and through transmission modes were used and A-scans, C-scans and frequency spectra were analyzed. It was found that the higher frequency (5MHz) compression transducer operated in the pulse-echo mode gave the best results in most cases. Shear wave transducers were found to be cumbersome to use and unsuitable for the cases studied.
Delineating Cultural Boundaries and Debunking the Myth of the “Classless” Kitchen:

This study examines the role cultural capital plays in students’ culinary training. I argue students’ class-dependent cultural capital influenced how they experienced culinary school. I examine how...
Use of a Gastroschisis Feeding Guideline to Improve Standardization of Care and Patient Outcomes at an Urban Children's Hospital

BACKGROUND This study examined clinical outcomes associated with the use of a gastroschisis-specific (GS) feeding advancement guideline. METHODS We performed a retrospective study of all simple gastroschisis babies (N = 65) treated between June 2009June 2015. We compared patients treated on a postintestinal surgery guideline using either a 1-day (1D) or 3-day (3D) feeding advancement from August 2009-August 2013 with infants treated on a GS guideline from September 2013-June 2015. RESULTS Patients in the 2 groups were similar in sex, race, gestational age, weight, and comorbidities. Median time to full enteral nutrition (EN) was 11 days for the 1D group, 22 days for the 3D group, and 18 days for the GS group (P < .01). However, lengths of stay and estimated weight gain per day were similar among the groups. A total of 3 infants (10%) in the 1D group developed necrotizing enterocolitis compared with none in the 3D or GS groups. Control chart analysis showed reduced variation in median time to full EN in the GS group when compared with the 1D and 3D groups. Guideline adherence was significantly better with the GS guideline when compared with the 1D or 3D guidelines (94% vs 72% vs 90%; P < .01). CONCLUSION A GS protocol yielded reduced variation in median time to full EN, significant improvement in percent adherence to the guideline, and zero cases of necrotizing enterocolitis. Weight gain and lengths of stay were not adversely affected by slower feeds.
Gestational exposure to metformin programs improved glucose tolerance and insulin secretion in adult male mouse offspring

Pancreatic β-cells are exquisitely sensitive to developmental nutrient stressors, and alterations in nutrient sensing pathways may underlie changes observed in these models. Here we developed a mouse model of in utero exposure to the anti-diabetic agent metformin. We have previously shown that this exposure increases offspring pancreatic β-cell mass at birth. We hypothesized that adult offspring would have improved metabolic parameters as a long-term outcome of metformin exposure. Virgin dams were given 5 mg/mL metformin in their water from E0.5 to delivery at E18.5. Body weight, glucose tolerance, insulin tolerance and glucose stimulated insulin secretion were analyzed in the offspring. When male offspring of dams given metformin during gestation were tested as adults they had improved glucose tolerance and enhanced insulin secretion in vivo as did their islets in vitro. Enhanced insulin secretion was accompanied by changes in intracellular free calcium responses to glucose and potassium chloride, possibly mediated by increased L channel expression. Female offspring exhibited improved glucose tolerance at advanced ages. In conclusion, in this model in utero metformin exposure leads to improved offspring metabolism in a gender-specific manner. These findings suggest that metformin applied during gestation may be an option for reprogramming metabolism in at risk groups.
Would a free banking system stabilize NGDP growth

Abstract Since the 2008 financial crisis, a number of economists have suggested that central banks should follow an NGDP-targeting rule. Other researchers have argued that a free and unregulated banking system stabilizes NGDP growth as an unintended consequence. We explore this argument in a simple model of a free banking system. We find that a free banking system does indeed stabilize NGDP growth in response to aggregate demand shocks. However, we find that in response to aggregate supply shocks it stabilizes the inflation rate. An implication of this is that, unlike an NGDP-targeting central bank, a free banking system would not allow for disinflation or even deflation in response to a positive aggregate supply shock.
Digital Filter Structures

What we have learnt so far is how to design either an IIR or FIR digital filter to satisfy a given set of specifications in the frequency domain. We have also seen examples based on MATLAB wherein filtering operations are carried out by specific functions. We really don’t know how these functions really work. If you are a S/W or H/W engineer and want to implement a digital filter in software or hardware, you should be able to describe the flow of signal from the input to the output. Thus, a digital filter structure describes the flow of signal as it propagates from the input to the output sample by sample. This filtering operation is described by a signal flow graph, which is a block diagram with blocks corresponding to the arithmetic operations of addition, multiplication, and unit delays. The blocks are connected by lines with arrows pointing in the direction of signal flow. In digital filter terminology, an adder has two inputs and one output, as shown in Fig. 8.1a. Similarly, a multiplier accepts an input signal and multiplies it by a coefficient a to produce an output, as shown in Fig. 8.1b. A unit delay block is a register, which can hold a sample from its input. The sample can be read from its output after one sample interval. Figure 8.1c illustrates a unit delay element. Note that the unit delay operation in the Z-domain is denoted by z−1. Finally, Fig. 8.1d shows how a signal is tapped into. So, these are the basic building blocks of a digital filter structure. Let us look at a simple example.
The Effects of Need-Based Aid on College Enrollment and Success Among Low-Income Students

States are increasingly concerned about higher education spending and determining whether they are getting their “money’s worth” from financial aid programs. Researchers have documented correlations between financial aid and college persistence (St. John 1991), finding that grants increase persistence (Bettinger 2004), scholarships have a larger effect on retention than grants, and that all forms of financial aid increase student outcomes (Avery & Hoxby 2004; DesJardins et al. 2002). Unfortunately most financial aid research focuses on students enrolled in 4-year colleges and comparing students across high, medium, and low SES. Moreover, most research on persistence and retention is focused on persistence at individual colleges and universities and does not focus on system wide persistence and degree completion (Adelman 1999). There is little research investigating the affects of financial aid among low-SES students and even less investigating the ways in which need-based financial aid affects student outcomes for low-income students. Using FAFSA data from 2003-04 Illinois college-bound students and longitudinal data from the Illinois Monetary Assistance Program and National Student Clearinghouse data, we investigate the relationships between need-based financial aid and college enrollment, persistence, and completion among low-income students. We conclude with a discussion of the ways in which these results can inform policy aiming to increase college attendance and lower attrition among low-income students.
Object recognition robust to imperfect depth data

In this paper, we present an adaptive data fusion model that robustly integrates depth and image only perception. Combining dense depth measurements with images can greatly enhance the performance of many computer vision algorithms, yet degraded depth measurements (e.g., missing data) can also cause dramatic performance losses to levels below image-only algorithms. We propose a generic fusion model based on maximum likelihood estimates of fused image-depth functions for both available and missing depth data. We demonstrate its application to each step of a state-of-the-art image-only object instance recognition pipeline. The resulting approach shows increased recognition performance over alternative data fusion approaches.
C-Glycosylphosphonyl Analogs of 5-Phosphorylribose 1-α-Diphosphate: II. The “2-Deoxy” Analog

Abstract d - ribo -2,5-anhydro-1,3-dideoxy-1-(((dihydroxyphosphinyl)oxy)hydroxyphosphinyl)-6-phosphorylhexitol, compound 4, along with 25% of its d -arabino epimer, was synthesized in 10 steps from 2-deoxyribonolactone. Compound 4 represents the 2-deoxy analog of the central metabolite 5-phosphorylribose 1-α-diphosphate (PRPP). The analog is a competitive inhibitor of yeast orotate phosphoribosyltransferase (PRTase) with K i / K m (PRPP) = 24 and is thus comparable to other C -glycosylphosphonyl PRPP analogs reported previously (R. W. McClard, and J. F. Witte (1990) Bioorg. Chem. 18, 165–178). The analog is an even better inhibitor of both human hypoxanthine-guanine PRTase and glutamine:amido PRTase from Escherichia coli with K i / K m (PRPP) values of 16 and 3, respectively. These results support the argument that the cis-diol grouping of nucleotides (or PRPP) plays a very minor role in binding of these substrates to PRTases.
Three-dimensional Reconstruction and Cross-section Measurements of Coronary Arteries using ECG-Correlated Digital Coronary Arteriography

The advent of digital image processing has facilitated accurate quantitative analysis of coronary artery morphology [1–7]. To optimally utilize the morphological information available in multi-view cine-angiography and potentially completely replace inaccurate visual determinations of lesion severity [8–13], it is desirable to consolidate the information available into a single densitometric analysis of the arterial tree. In recent years the problem of three-dimensional reconstruction of vascular beds from multi-view angiography has been addressed by several research groups [14–20]. Methodology utilized include the centerline reconstruction methods of Potel et al. [15] and Kim [16], circular reconstructions of Mol et al. [18], the morphologic cross-section reconstructions of Reiber et al. [17] and other multi-view tomographic techniques such as those of Kruger [19] and Mawko [20].
Sensing and Actuation: A Case for Multidisciplinary Engineering Education

Sensors and actuators are the basis of almost all electrical systems, especially if one views them as generalized inputs and outputs. But the approach to teaching them has been ad hoc, based almost entirely on an encyclopedic enumeration of their properties and applications. This approach is also evident in textbooks available. They are either specialized research monographs on a class of devices or are handbooks that describe many devices, sometimes exhaustively. A rational approach to teaching should be based on principles rather than on descriptions of functioning of the devices and should cover all or at least the main principles of sensing and actuation. But therein lies the problem. Sensors and actuators are based on numerous physical principles that cover all disciplines. To understand their operation and eventually to design sensors and sensor systems requires a broad knowledge in almost all areas of science and engineering. This requires a broadening of the base of instruction to include material science, physics, chemistry, and related subjects such as optics, nuclear engineering, fabrication, packaging, and others. Instead of specialization, the study of sensors and actuators favors diversification, and by so doing it stands in contrast with most other topics in the engineering curriculum.
Ghrelin-Induced Sodium Reabsorption Is Mediated by PKA and Microtubule-Dependent αENaC Translocation in Female Rats.

Intrarenal ghrelin infusion activates ghrelin receptors in the kidney collecting duct (CD) to increase α epithelial sodium (Na+) channel (αENaC)-dependent Na+ reabsorption in vivo, but the underlying mechanisms are unknown. Seventy-two hours following uninephrectomy, 12-week-old female Sprague-Dawley rats received the following renal interstitial (RI) infusions for 1 hour after a 1-hour control: vehicle (n = 10), ghrelin (3 μg/minute; n = 8), ghrelin + phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor LY-294002 (0.1 μg/kg/minute; n = 7), ghrelin + protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor adenosine 3′5′-cyclic monophosphorothioate, Rp-isomer (10 μg/kg/minute; n = 8), ghrelin + microtubule polymerization inhibitor nocodazole (0.3 μg/kg/minute; n = 7), or ghrelin + actin polymerization inhibitor cytochalasin D (0.3 μg/kg/minute; n = 6). Compared with vehicle infusion, RI ghrelin induced a significant anti-natriuresis (urine Na+ excretion was reduced by 53.7% ± 6.8%; P < 0.001). This effect was abolished during concomitant PKA or microtubule inhibition (106.4% ± 9.4% and 109.7% ± 10.6% of vehicle infusion, respectively; P < 0.01 from ghrelin) but not during concomitant PI3K or actin inhibition (reduced by 48.6% ± 3.9% and 52.8% ± 12.7%, respectively; P < 0.001 and P < 0.01 from vehicle, respectively; P = not significant from ghrelin). Infusions had no effect on mean arterial pressure. Western blot analysis demonstrated that CD membrane but not total αENaC expression increased in response to ghrelin infusion compared with vehicle, (0.39 ± 0.05 vs 0.12 ± 0.02 arbitrary units; P < 0.01). This effect was abolished during PKA or microtubule inhibition but persisted during PI3K or actin inhibition. Neural precursor cell expressed, developmentally down-regulated 4 isoform 2 (Nedd4-2) dependent internalization of αENaC was not affected by ghrelin, indicating that microtubule-dependent forward trafficking of αENaC is necessary for anti-natriuretic responses to ghrelin. Taken together, these studies highlight the importance of PKA and microtubule polymerization in ghrelin-induced αENaC-mediated Na+ reabsorption.
The side door and front door to the upper retroclival region: a comparative analysis of the open pretemporal and the endoscopic endonasal transcavernous approaches.

OBJECTIVE The pretemporal transcavernous approach (PTA) and the endoscopic endonasal transcavernous approach (EETA) are both used to access the retroclival region. A direct quantitative comparison of both approaches has not been made. The authors compared the technical nuances of, and surgical exposure afforded by, each approach and identified the key elements of the approach selection process. METHODS Fourteen cadaveric specimens underwent either PTA (group A) or EETA with unilateral (group B) followed by bilateral (group C) interdural pituitary gland transposition. The percentage of drilled clivus; length of exposed oculomotor nerve (cranial nerve [CN] III), posterior cerebral artery (PCA), and superior cerebellar artery (SCA); and surgical area of exposure of both cerebral peduncles and the pons for the 3 groups were measured and compared. RESULTS Group A had a significantly lower percentage of drilled area than group B (mean [SD], 35.6% [11.2%] vs 91.3% [4.9%], p < 0.01). In group C, 100% of the upper third of the clivus was drilled in all specimens. Significantly longer segments of the ipsilateral PCA (p < 0.01) and SCA (p < 0.01) were exposed in group A than in group B. There was no significant difference in the length of the ipsilateral CN III exposed among the 3 groups. There was also no significant difference between group A and either group B or group C for the contralateral CN III or PCA exposure. However, longer segments of the contralateral SCA were exposed in group C than in group A (p = 0.02). Furthermore, longer segments of CN III (p < 0.01), PCA (p < 0.01), and SCA (p < 0.01) were exposed in group C than in group B. For brainstem exposure, there was greater exposure of the pons in group C than in group A (mean [SD], 211.4 [19.5] mm2 vs 157.7 [25.3] mm2, p < 0.01) and group B (211.4 [19.5] mm2 vs 153.9 [34.1] mm2, p < 0.01). However, significantly greater exposure of the ipsilateral peduncle was observed in group A (mean [SD], 125.6 [43.1] mm2) than in groups B and C (56.3 [6.0] mm2, p < 0.01). Group C had significantly greater exposure of the contralateral peduncle than group B (p = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS This study is the first to quantitatively identify the advantages and limitations of the PTA and EETA from an anatomical perspective. Understanding these data may help the skull base surgeon design a maximally effective yet minimally invasive approach to individual lesions.
Children's and adults' understanding of punishment and the criminal justice system

Abstract Adults' judgments regarding punishment can have important social ramifications. However, the origins of these judgments remain unclear. Using the legal system as an example domain in which people receive punishment, the current work employed two complementary approaches to examine how punishment-related concepts emerge. Study 1 tested both 6- to 8-year-olds and adults to ascertain which components of “end-state” punishment concepts emerge early in development and remain stable over time, and which components of punishment concepts change with age. Children, like adults, agreed with and spontaneously generated behavioral explanations for incarceration. However, children were more likely than adults to attribute incarceration to internal characteristics. Neither children nor adults reported that incarceration stems from societal-level factors such as poverty. Study 2 built on the results of Study 1 by probing the extent to which early punishment-related concepts in the legal domain emerge from a specific form of social experience—namely, parental incarceration. Children of incarcerated parents, like children whose parents were not incarcerated, were more likely to reference internal and behavioral factors than societal factors when discussing why people come into contact with the justice system. Taken together, these studies clarify how punishment-related concepts arise and therefore contribute to theories of moral psychology, social cognitive development, and criminal justice.
Graph Convolutional Neural Networks for Optimal Load Shedding under Line Contingency

Power system operations under contingency need to solve large-scale complex nonlinear optimization problems in a short amount of time, if not real time. Such nonlinear programs are computationally challenging and time-consuming and thus do not scale with the size of the power system network. We apply a graph convolutional network (GCN) model, as a supervised learning model, for predicting an optimal load-shedding ratio that prevents transmission lines from being overloaded under line contingency (i.e., line tripping). In particular, we exploit the power system network topology in the GCN model, where the topology information is convoluted over the neural network. Using IEEE test cases, we benchmark our GCN model against a classical neural network model and a linear regression model and show that the GCN model outperforms the others by an order of magnitude.
Winning with the B team

The accumulation of B cells and tertiary lymphoid organs in metastatic melanoma patients receiving checkpoint blockade therapy was associated with long-term survival.