cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Java cryptography on KVM and its performance and security optimization using HW/SW co-design techniques

This paper describes a design approach to include and optimize Java based cryptographic applications into resource limited embedded devices.For easy prototyping and to be platform independent, the security applications are first developed in Java. Two Java cryptographic libraries, the Bouncy Castle API and the IAIK API are ported to a real embedded device for cost and performance evaluation. It requires 0.88Mbytes to 1.2Mbytes in the KVM footprint size and a few milliseconds to run secret key algorithms and message digests on a typical embedded device.In a second step, the performance critical components of the security applications are moved to hardware acceleration units. The GEZEL design environment is used for the hardware modeling and the co-simulation between software on KVM and the hardware co-processor. Moving the AES algorithm from the SH3-DSP microprocessor to a hardware co-processor shows a performance gain of 10.4x including the overhead in Java, C, and hardware interfaces.Then in a third step, the security critical components are realized by means of a special dynamic differential logic (DDL) style, which makes the secure modules resistant against side channel attacks. All key related actions and cryptographic algorithms are restricted to the secure co-processor. The overall performance gain is 25x compared to a pure Java implementation.
Impact of transvascular and cellular-interstitial water exchange on dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging estimates of blood to tissue transfer constant and blood plasma volume

Purpose: To examine the effect of transvascular (kbe) and cellular–interstitial water protons exchange (kie) in estimates of the blood-to-tissue contrast agent transfer rate constant (Ktrans), interstitial volume fraction (ve), and blood plasma volume fraction (vp) using a full three-site two exchange (3S2X) model. Materials and Methods: Using the Bloch-McConnell equations, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) signal arising from a 3S2X system was derived for the T1-weighted spoiled gradient-recalled echo (SPGR) pulse sequence. To model the effects of kbe and kie on estimates of R1, the MRI-measured arterial input function, the different sets of values of kinetic parameters: Ktrans, ve, and vp and water protons exchange rates, kbe and kie, were used. To calculate the tissue water protons R1, the signal evolving from a 3S2X model was set to a monoexponential function. By comparing the estimated Ktrans, ve, and vp with their simulated model truth values, the impact of kbe and kie on Ktrans, ve, and vp was evaluated. Results: vp was strongly underestimated and Ktrans and ve were much less influenced by kbe, when kie was held constant. When kbe was held constant, the kie had a significant effect on Ktrans and ve and less effect on vp. Conclusion: The full 3S2X model allows accurate estimation of Ktrans, ve, and vp and rates of water proton exchange. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2013;37:435–444. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Pervasive detection of process races in deployed systems

Process races occur when multiple processes access shared operating system resources, such as files, without proper synchronization. We present the first study of real process races and the first system designed to detect them. Our study of hundreds of applications shows that process races are numerous, difficult to debug, and a real threat to reliability. To address this problem, we created RacePro, a system for automatically detecting these races. RacePro checks deployed systems in-vivo by recording live executions then deterministically replaying and checking them later. This approach increases checking coverage beyond the configurations or executions covered by software vendors or beta testing sites. RacePro records multiple processes, detects races in the recording among system calls that may concurrently access shared kernel objects, then tries different execution orderings of such system calls to determine which races are harmful and result in failures. To simplify race detection, RacePro models under-specified system calls based on load and store micro-operations. To reduce false positives and negatives, RacePro uses a replay and go-live mechanism to distill harmful races from benign ones. We have implemented RacePro in Linux, shown that it imposes only modest recording overhead, and used it to detect a number of previously unknown bugs in real applications caused by process races.
Efficient multiuser communication in the presence of fading

New linear symbol-spreading strategies for efficient single- and multi-user communication in environments subject to fading due to time-varying multipath are introduced. For given power, bandwidth, and delay constraints, these new systems significantly reduce the computation required to achieve a prescribed level of performance. Several aspects of these systems and their performance are developed.
Workload portfolio optimization for virtualized computer systems based on semiparametric quantile function estimation

Summary. The latest technologies of server virtualization allow multiple computer workloads to share the same physical system dynamically while protecting them from interference from each other. Consolidation of workloads from stand-alone systems into virtualized systems requires accurate capacity sizing and optimal portfolio design to maximize the benefit of virtualization. This requirement often translates into a demand for accurate estimation of high quantiles from a limited amount of data for hundreds of workloads with diverse statistical characteristics. To deal with the problem, a semiparametric method of quantile function estimation is considered. The method employs the generalized Pareto distribution to model the high quantiles that exceed a certain threshold and retains the sample quantiles below the threshold. An automatic procedure is proposed for adaptive threshold and estimator selection and for adaptive data trimming. A simulation study shows that the procedure proposed is superior to the non-parametric sample quantile method for a variety of distributions. The procedure is applied to a portfolio optimization problem for computer workload consolidation with real data.
Use of ridge regression to predict yield reduction by Fusarium sp. in selected soybean cultivars

In field studies at Georgetown and Newark, Delaware, significant differences existed among selected soybean cultivars in response to infection by Fusarium oxysporum with regard to yield, yield reduction, and frequency of recovery of F. oxysporum from roots and Fusarium spp. from the rhizosphere. Yield reduction was predicted with both an ordinary least squares model selected with a stepwise procedure and with a ridge regression model. The ridge model was more stable, used fewer predictors and was more consistent in predicting yield depression than the model selected with a stepwise procedure. Various statistics were compared to substantiate the superiority of the ridge model with plant pathological data.
Photonic crystals for confining, guiding, and emitting light

By using the photonic crystals, we can confine, guide, and emit light efficiently. By precise control over the geometry and three-dimensional design, it is possible to obtain high quality optical devices with extremely small dimensions. Here we describe examples of high-Q optical nanocavities, photonic crystal waveguides, and surface plasmon enhanced light-emitting diode (LEDs).
Integrins as Receptors for Extracellular Matrix

Cells bind to extracellular matrices as a means of anchoring themselves and to derive traction for migration. Matrices may also impart signals for growth and differentiation. The binding of cells to extracellular matrices is mediated by cell surface receptors. The primary class of these receptors is a family of trans-membrane proteins known as integrins. The integrins bind to extracellular matrix proteins at specialized cell attachment sites that often have the tripeptide sequence Arg-Gly-Asp or RGD as the target sequence for the integrin binding. While the specificity of the cell—matrix interactions seems to come from the integrin binding, most adhesive matrix molecules also contain sites that can interact with the glycosaminoglycan component of proteoglycans. The binding of cell surface proteoglycans to such sites is likely to play an augmenting role in cell adhesion. The proteoglycan interactions are discussed elsewhere in this volume. This chapter summarizes the current status of integrins, focusing on their role as extracellular matrix receptors.
Control of follicular growth During the primate menstrual cycle

The elucidation of the mechanisms responsible for the growth of follicles to the preovulatory stage is a challenge for both basic as well as clinical investigators. For the former, this problem provides a model system in which whole animal physiology must be combined with cellular and molecular biology to determine how one of die many follicles present in the ovary gains an advantage over all others such that it alone reaches maturity, ovulates and releases an oocyte for fertilization. At the level of clinical investigation and clinical practice, the understanding of the physiological and biochemical mechanisms responsible for folliculogenesis and follicle selection must provide the foundation for effective treatment of anovulation as well as ovarian stimulation for IVF and GIFT procedures. The goal of this chapter is to summarize studies performed in macaque monkeys that have provided the physiological explanation for the selection of the preovulatory follicle. Because of the remarkable similarity of the menstrual cycle of these animals with that of humans, it is hoped that information gained from these studies in monkeys will be direcdy applicable to humans.
Developmental differences in response of mesenteric artery to acute hypoxia in vitro

Studies were conducted to determine if the response of in vitro mesenteric artery from 3- and 35-day-old swine to acute hypoxia was age dependent. Isometric tension developed by mesenteric artery r...
Women and Foreign Policy Effects: As Women's Influence in State and Society Grows, How Do They Shape Foreign Policy Outcomes?

This paper is a quantitative study looking at the relationship between the influence of women at the state, versus societal, level in reframing foreign policy, specifically in making decisions regarding involvement in conflict and development aid. The role of women in international affairs is a subject increasingly under scrutiny, due to its potential impact on changing the behavior of states. Women have long been thought to be "more peaceful" than men; as they become increasingly active participants in politics, is this pacifism being expressed through moderation of foreign policy tactics? A large-N quantitative study measuring how the proportion of women in legislative seats, literacy and labor participation in relation to a state's involvement in violent conflict as well as government budgeting for military and development aid finds there is an increasingly strong relationship between women's participation and policy outcomes.
Flammability Properties of Carpets with Polychloroprene Latex Foam Underlayments

Abstract The flammability properties of a carpet underlayment system are dependent on all the components of the system. Most important is the choice of carpet fiber and construction. Large differences in results were seen between the various carpets tested. Once the carpet construction is chosen—and this is most often done for reasons of aesthetics, comfort and wear—the fiammability properties are influenced by the the foam pad or underlayment and by the carpet anchor coat. In all cases tested the use of a foam pad decreases the critical radiant flux of the carpet system as measured by the Flooring Radiant Panel Test. The decrease in critical flux is much less severe for foam pads based on polychloroprene latices than for those based on SBR. This is even true where hydrated alumina filler is incorporated in the SBR foam formulation. From this it is concluded that a carpet with a polychloroprene pad is likely to contribute less to the spread of fire than the same carpet with an SBR pad. Other workers have ...
At the Intersection of Bank and Finance Derivatives: Who Has the Right of Way?

This article begins in Part I with a discussion of the present status of Over-the-Counter (OTC) derivatives market. It focuses on the basic structure of a typical derivative transaction between a lender/counterparty and its borrower. This article describes the different basic types of derivative transactions presently being used in the OTC derivatives market. Further, the article describes the procedure of documenting a derivative transaction. Part II of the article develops the reasons behind a lender's often conflicting goals to both limit and encourage a borrower's use of derivative transactions. Part III explores the process of drafting loan documentation to limit the possibility of a borrower suffering financial losses from derivative transactions. Part IV discusses the role of a lender as a counterparty in a derivative transaction with its borrower. Through the lens of the holding of In re: Thrifty Oil Company, Part V primarily focuses the unique legal issue of unmatured interest in the bankruptcy area and how this may affect a lender/counterparty's ability to claim damages under derivative transactions previously entered into with its now bankrupt borrower.
Strengthening Reciprocity in Study-Abroad Programs

The National Consortium for Study in Africa (NCSA) was founded in 1994 by the then 15 National Resource Centers for African Language and Area Studies. The primary agenda of the NCSA is to promote high-quality and accessible study-abroad programs for North American students in Africa. In addressing this agenda the NCSA initial membership had a particular, but not exclusive, interest in programs at African universities for North American students. This
EVALUATION OF INSECTICIDE SPRAY/NO SPRAY ON CONVENTIONAL AND DOUBLE-GENE INSECT RESISTANT COTTON AGAINST BOLLWORM, 2013

Thirteen double-gene insect resistant and two conventional cotton varieties were evaluated for control of BW in Virginia cotton at the Virginia Tech Tidewater Agric. Res. & Ext. Ctr., Suffolk, VA. Each variety was treated with insecticides targeting BW, or not treated for BW. In the treated plots, double-gene insect resistant varieties received one spray of Brigade @ 6.4 oz/acre plus Belt @ 2 oz/acre on 14 Aug 6 day after BW egg threshold. Conventional varieties received two sprays for BW, Brigade @ 6.4 oz/acre at BW egg threshold on 8 Aug, and Brigade @ 6.4 oz/acre plus Belt @ 2 oz/acre on 14 Aug. Treatments were applied with a Spider Spray Trac-mounted CO2-pressurized sprayer at 16.5 gpa and 30 psi through 8002VS nozzles spaced 18 inches apart on the spray boom. Cotton was planted 17 May using 36-inch row spacing. A split-plot experimental design was used with 4 replicates; plots were 4 rows by 40 ft. Plant population was determined on 24 Jun by counting all plants in two rows per plot. External boll injury was determined by visually inspecting 25 bolls per plot for evidence of BW feeding on three dates. Yield was determined by harvesting 2 rows of each plot (80 row ft) on 13 Nov using a commercial 2-row cotton picker. Samples from each variety were ginned to determine lint versus seed and trash weight. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and LSD statistical procedures.
P28 Stent implantation to relieve native obstructed left partial anomalous pulmonary venous connexions

Case Report The patient is a female with Turner’s Syndrome (45, XO) born at 32 weeks gestation by emergency caesarean section with a birth weight of 1.6KG. The neonatal course was complicated by respiratory distress, hypoglycemia, coagulopathy, gram negative sepsis and small bowel perforation. Ongoing clinical issues included transaminitis, conjugated hyperbilirubinemia and bilateral grade 4 intra-ventricular haemorrhages. The patient was transferred from a neonatal intensive care unit to our institutions paediatric intensive care unit where her cardiorespiratory profile continued to deteriorate. She was started on noradrenaline, milrinone and intravenous diuresis to support cardiac output and ameliorate left sided pulmonary oedema. 2D echocardiography demonstrated PAPVC of the left upper pulmonary vein to the innominate vein as well as a small secundum ASD, mild right heart dilatation, moderate RVH and well preserved biventricular systolic function. There was moderate PR and mild TR with an estimated right ventricular systolic pressure approaching systemic levels. CT angiogram confirmed a left PAPVC to innominate vein via a vertical vein and suggested only a small segment of the left lower lobe was draining to the left atrium. The CT also raised the possibility of a vertical vein stenosis. At eight weeks corrected the patient presented for cardiac cathederisation under GA. Pulmonary artery pressure was systemic on manometry. The mean pressure in the vertical vein measured 24mmHg with a 9mmHg gradient across the stenosis. A stent was placed across the stenosis and inflated to 22 ATM. Relief of the stenosis was achieved and the procedure was tolerated without complication.
PATTERNS OF LEFT VENTRICULAR REMODELING IN PATIENTS WITH SEVERE DEGENERATIVE MITRAL REGURGITATION: A MULTI-IMAGING STUDY

To determine patterns of LV remodeling in degenerative MR according to valvular phenotypes: myxomatous bileaflet prolapse(MBP) vs. fibroelastic deficiency(FED). Between 2008-2014, 456 consecutive patients with severe degenerative MR underwent cardiac CT prior to robotic mitral valve repair. LV
General Multilevel Opportunity and Crime Events

General multilevel opportunity theory draws from a range of existing opportunity theories that collectively account for variation in criminal opportunity across various levels of analysis. The theo...
Controlled synthesis of Eu2+ and Eu3+ doped ZnS quantum dots and their photovoltaic and magnetic properties

Eu-doped ZnS quantum dots (QDs) have been synthesized by wet-chemical method and found to form in zinc blende (cubic) structure. Both Eu2+ and Eu3+ doped ZnS can be controllably synthesized. The Eu2+ doped ZnS QDs show broad photoluminescence emission peak around 512 nm, which is from the Eu2+ intra-ion transition of 4f6d1 – 4f7, while the Eu3+ doped samples exhibit narrow emission lines characteristic of transitions between the 4f levels. The investigation of the magnetic properties shows that the Eu3+ doped samples exhibit signs of ferromagnetism, on the other hand, Eu2+ doped samples are paramagnetic of Curie-Weiss type. The incident photon to electron conversion efficiency is increased with the Eu doping, which suggests the QD solar cell efficiency can be enhanced by Eu doping due to widened absorption windows. This is an attractive approach to utilize benign and environmentally friendly wide band gap ZnS QDs in solar cell technology.
A Multidisciplinary Approach to Reduce Central Line–Associated Bloodstream Infections

Article-at-a-Glance Background Stony Brook University Hospital (SBUH) joined a Critical Care Learning Collaborative in fall 2004. The collaborative incorporated application of central line and ventilator bundles, multidisciplinary rounding, and daily goal sheets to improve patient outcomes. In a two-year period, the initiative spread to the medical, pediatric, cardiac, and neonatal ICUs. Methods Despite some success, the goal of eliminating central line–associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) was not initially realized. In response, SBUH developed a standardized central line insertion credentialing program for residents. After further review of the residual central line infection data, it was evident that many of the lines became infected after day 7 of insertion. Evaluation of the line maintenance process revealed that nursing staff were not accessing the lines using the same level of sterile technique as used during insertion. As a result, a central line maintenance protocol was developed and deployed. Results After cumulative efforts were undertaken, SBUH's overall CLABSI rate decreased by 59% in a five-year period and by more than 80% in the most recent 12 months. Conclusions A critical feature of the approach that SBUH followed was to establish buy-in and oversight from the SICU leadership through a multidisciplinary team, which became the "learning laboratory" for many of the subsequent changes in practice. Also, the fundamental role of the Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Department‘s quality management practitioner as facilitator cannot be overstated. "Hardwiring" of process changes augmented sustainability of improvements, as did a change in the health care team's perception of central line infections—that is, from an "unavoidable complication" to "a failure."
Laparoscopic Ablation of Symptomatic Renal Cysts

We report a laparoscopic approach to the drainage and ablation of symptomatic simple renal cysts. Ten patients with chronic pain, 6 of whom failed primary aspiration, underwent laparoscopic cyst ablation: 6 had solitary renal cysts, 3 had multiple cysts and 1 had a peripelvic cyst. The approach was transabdominal in 9 patients and extraperitoneal in 1. Intraoperatively, cyst fluid was obtained for cytological examination, and cyst walls were excised and sent for pathological examination. When possible, the remaining inner cyst walls were fulgurated to prevent recurrence. Mean total operating room time was 2 hours 27 minutes and blood loss was minimal. The sole complication was a postoperative retroperitoneal hematoma, which was managed conservatively. Malignancy was diagnosed in 2 patients, each of whom had a negative preoperative aspiration. These patients subsequently underwent radical nephrectomy. All remaining patients were asymptomatic at a mean followup of 10 months. Laparoscopic ablation of renal cysts is a safe and effective alternative to open surgery in patients who have failed conservative measures. Preoperative and intraoperative evaluation for malignancy should be performed.
The Biochemical Basis of Anesthetic Toxicity

Three aspects of the cellular metabolism of inhalational anesthetics are considered: first, the effects of anesthetics on mitochondrial metabolism and its implications; second, the biotransformation of the inhalational anesthetics; third, the relationship of biotransformation to organ toxicity.
TU-A-BRB-02: Panel Member

Brain stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) and spine stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) are commonly treated by a multidisciplinary team of neurosurgeons, radiation oncologists, and medical physicists. However the treatment objectives, constraints, and technical considerations involved can be quite different between the two techniques. In this interactive session an expert panel of speakers will present clinical brain SRS and spine SBRT cases in order to demonstrate real-world considerations for ensuring safe and accurate treatment delivery and to highlight the significant differences in approach for each treatment site. The session will include discussion of topic such as clinical indications, immobilization, target definition, normal tissue tolerance limits, and beam arrangements. Learning Objectives: 1.Understand the differences in indications and dose/fractionation strategies for intracranial SRS and spine SBRT. 2.Describe the different treatment modalities which can be used to deliver intracranial SRS and spine SBRT. 3.Cite the major differences in treatment setup and delivery principles between intracranial and spine treatments. 4.Identify key critical structures and clinical dosimetric tolerance levels for spine SBRT and intracranial SRS. 5.Understand areas of ongoing work to standardize intracranial SRS and spine SBRT procedures. Schlesinger: Research support: Elekta Instruments, AB; D. Schlesinger, Elekta Instruments, AB - research support; B. Winey, No relevant external funding for this subject.
FEV1/FEV6 May Misdiagnose Patients With COPD

To the Editor: We read with great interest the paper by Wang et al[1][1] proposing the use of FEV1/FEV6 as a reliable index for diagnosing COPD. Although the utility of FEV6 has been demonstrated in some clinical scenarios,[2][2],[3][3] we are concerned that the current study reaches conclusions
Constellations, clusters, and communication technology: Expanding small satellite access to space

The trend toward small-sized spacecraft continues in government applications and is even increasing in commercial space endeavors that are funded by venture capital. Small spacecraft, including nanosatellites, microsatellites, and small satellites (smallsats), are an attractive alternative to traditional, larger spacecraft due to reduced development costs, decreased launch costs, and increased launch opportunities. A significant disadvantage, however, of a small spacecraft is its reduced or limited capabilities. The physical size of the small spacecraft reduces the size of the payload and/or the number of payloads that it can host, its propulsion capabilities, and its power. Small spacecraft are most commonly used in low Earth orbit, limiting the number of observation opportunities for a particular area of the Earth or space and the number of ground station downlink opportunities for stored data. These constraints affect the complexity and types of applications that small spacecraft can serve. Using multiple spacecraft that work together can overcome many of these limitations and expand the utility of small spacecraft. Two concepts for cooperative groups of spacecraft are constellations and clusters. A key technical challenge for small spacecraft, constellations, and clusters is communication of data. Communication challenges exist for accommodating varying numbers of users, serving high user densities in a given geographical area, and providing a consistent quality of service for different types of applications (e.g., Internet access, voice communication, machine-to-machine). This paper explores concepts for emerging communication technologies for space-ground and inter-satellite communication, while citing examples of existing and new constellation and cluster concepts. Several aspects of the communication systems are examined in terms of frequency bands, data rates, multiple access methods, and accommodation on spacecraft.
Sudden cardiac death.

Introduction Sudden cardiac arrest continues to be the leading cause of death in the industrialized world. Sources of data Original papers, reviews and guidelines. Areas of agreement Community programs for lay bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and automatic external defibrillation improve outcomes. Post-arrest care, including targeted temperature management (TTM) combined with early coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention, is helpful for those suffering cardiac arrest during an ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. Areas of controversy (1) The optimal approach to encourage lay bystanders to assist with resuscitation efforts. (2) Whether TTM combined with early coronary angiography is cost effective for those without ST elevation on their post-arrest ECG is unknown. Growing points Increasing data show that chest compression-only CPR is preferred by lay rescuers and improves local survival rates. Areas timely for developing research Randomized clinical trials are underway to examine the utility of early coronary angiography in the treatment of post-arrest patients without ST-segment elevation.
Feedback influences children's reasoning about math equivalence: A meta-analytic review

Decades of research have focused on children's reasoning about math equivalence problems for both practical and theoretical insights. Not only are math equivalence problems foundational in arithmet...
Drug-induced switching in bipolar disorder: Epidemiology and therapeutic implications

The use of antidepressants in patients with unipolar depression is associated with a negligible rate of switching into mania. In contrast, in patients with bipolar disorder, even those treated concomitantly with a mood stabiliser, such switching appears to represent a greater problem. Preliminary evidence from some controlled studies suggests that antidepressants may double the incidence of a switch, from some 25% in patients receiving placebo to 50% in those receiving tricyclic antidepressants. Other series in patients with rapid cycling bipolar disorder suggest an even higher switch rate; however, only about one-third of the observed switches are likely to be attributable to the antidepressant (i.e. unrelated to the natural course of illness).
Gudrun Ravetz, BVA Senior Vice President, responds.

We thank Jenny Winslade for raising an issue of much concern among the veterinary profession. Robust biosecurity measures are essential to ensuring human and animal health as well as higher animal welfare standards. We would like to assure Mrs Winslade that …
Fuzzy XML Extraction from Fuzzy Database Models

Nowadays most of data are modeled by database modes such as UML, relational and object-oriented database models as introduced in Chap. 1. Then database administrators are faced with the challenge of ensuring their databases to interface with other heterogeneous systems using XML, which is the de facto standard for publishing and exchanging data on the Web. However, information is often imprecise and uncertain in many real-world applications, and thus fuzzy database models and fuzzy XML have been extensively investigated as introduced in Chaps. 2 and 3. Accordingly, there is an increasing need to automate the process of extracting fuzzy XML models containing information from existing fuzzy database models. In this chapter, we introduce how to extract fuzzy XML from several typical fuzzy database models, including fuzzy UML data models, fuzzy relational database models, and fuzzy object-oriented database models.
Subgroups of the Conway Groups; the Simple Groups of Higman-Sims, McLaughlin, Hall-Janko and Suzuki; Local Subgroups; Conjugacy Classes

We describe the involvement in CO 0 of the simple groups of Hall-Janko, Suzuki, McLaughlin and Higman-Sims. In addition, we determine conjugacy classes of elements of small order and the structure of several local subgroups (recall that a p-local subgroup, for a prime p, is the normalizer of a nonidentity p-subgroup, and a local subgroup is a p-local subgroup for some prime p). Appendix 10C contains Conway’s original table of triangle and other stabilizers, along with additional material. Our treatment of the conjugacy classes is original and our treatment of the above simple groups does involve some revision.
Determination of unsteady container temperatures during freezing of three-dimensional organs with constrained thermal stresses

Publisher Summary This chapter develops a discussion on a fully automatic procedure for maximizing the minimal local freezing rate in an organ, while maintaining the local thermal stresses below a specified level throughout the arbitrarily shaped and sized three-dimensional organ made of different materials. This is achieved by determining correct variation of unsteady temperature distribution on the walls of the three-dimensional freezing container. Time-accurate finite element computer programs are used to predict unsteady heat conduction with phase change and thermal stresses within the realistically shaped organs. A micro-genetic algorithm is used to achieve nonlinear constrained optimization of time-varying container wall temperature distribution so that the prescribed maximum allowable thermal stress levels are never exceeded throughout the organ.
INTERLEUKINS | IL-7

Interleukin-7 (IL-7) is a stroma-derived cytokine that is indispensable for thymopoiesis in mice and humans. IL-7 also plays a pivotal role in the generation of memory CD4+ and CD8+ cells, and in controlling the numbers of naive and memory T cells. Its combined effects of increasing thymic output and enhancing homeostatic expansion of T cells make IL-7 a potentially ideal agent to restore immune competence in patients with lymphopenia.
Gastroenterology and the Elderly

Esophageal disorders, such as esophageal motility disorders, infections, tumors, and other diseases, are common in the elderly. In the elderly, dysphagia usually implies organic disease. There are two types: (1) pre-esophageal and (2) esophageal. Both are further subdivided into motor (neuromuscular) or structural (intrinsic and extrinsic) lesions.1
Excessive Drinking in Young Women: Reducing harm through quality improvement

The growing problem of binge drinking among young women is one that must be dealt with at a societal level, says Ian Gilmore (doi: 10.1136/bmj.39520.716863.94). Nevertheless, doctors can make a difference at an individual level, and Brenda Reiss-Brennan and colleagues describe one US quality improvement intervention in primary care
Automated dendritic spine detection using convolutional neural networks on maximum intensity projected microscopic volumes

Abstract Background Dendritic spines are structural correlates of excitatory synapses in the brain. Their density and structure are shaped by experience, pointing to their role in memory encoding. Dendritic spine imaging, followed by manual analysis, is a primary way to study spines. However, an approach that analyses dendritic spines images in an automated and unbiased manner is needed to fully capture how spines change with normal experience, as well as in disease. New method We propose an approach based on fully convolutional neural networks (FCNs) to detect dendritic spines in two-dimensional maximum-intensity projected images from confocal fluorescent micrographs. We experiment on both fractionally strided convolution and efficient sub-pixel convolutions. Dendritic spines far from the dendritic shaft are pruned by extraction of the shaft to reduce false positives. Performance of the proposed method is evaluated by comparing predicted spine positions to those manually marked by experts. Results The averaged distance between predicted and manually annotated spines is 2.81 ± 2.63 pixels (0.082 ± 0.076 microns) and 2.87 ± 2.33 pixels (0.084 ± 0.068 microns) based on two different experts. FCN-based detection achieves F scores > 0.80 for both sets of expert annotations. Comparison with existing methods Our method significantly outperforms two well-known software, NeuronStudio and Neurolucida (p-value Conclusions FCN architectures used in this work allow for automated dendritic spine detection. Superior outcomes are possible even with small training data-sets. The proposed method may generalize to other datasets on larger scales.
Prevalence and correlates of obstructive sleep apnea among African Americans: the Jackson Heart Sleep Study

Study Objectives African Americans have been under-represented in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) research. This study determined the prevalence and correlates of OSA overall and by sex among African Americans in the Jackson Heart Sleep Study. Methods Participants (N = 852) underwent a type 3 in-home sleep apnea study, 7 day wrist actigraphy and completed standardized measurements and questionnaires. OSA was defined as an apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) of ≥15, where hypopneas were defined as ≥ 4% associated desaturation. Physician diagnosis of OSA was self-reported. Logistic regression models were fit to determine the associations of demographics, socioeconomic status, sleep symptoms, actigraphy-based sleep, body mass index (BMI), and comorbidities with OSA. Results Average age was 63.1 (standard deviation = 10.7), 66% were female, and mean BMI was 32.0 (6.9) kg/m2. Approximately 24% had an AHI ≥ 15; of those, 5% had a physician diagnosis of OSA. Prevalence of OSA increased across BMI categories, but not age groups. Men had a 12% higher prevalence of OSA compared with women, p < 0.01. Older age, male sex, higher BMI, larger neck circumference, and report of habitual snoring were independently associated with higher odds of OSA, all p < 0.05. Associations between sleep symptoms and OSA were similar for men and women. Sleepiness and waist circumference were not associated with OSA. Conclusions There was a high prevalence of objectively measured but undiagnosed OSA in this sample of African Americans. Snoring, BMI, and neck circumference were important markers of OSA for men and women. Our results suggest that screening tools that incorporate information on sleepiness and waist circumference may be suboptimal in this population.
WearLight: Toward a Wearable, Configurable Functional NIR Spectroscopy System for Noninvasive Neuroimaging

Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) has emerged as an effective brain monitoring technique to measure the hemodynamic response of the cortical surface. Its wide popularity and adoption in recent time attribute to its portability, ease of use, and flexibility in multimodal studies involving electroencephalography. While fNIRS is still emerging on various fronts including hardware, software, algorithm, and applications, it still requires overcoming several scientific challenges associated with brain monitoring in naturalistic environments where the human participants are allowed to move and required to perform various tasks stimulating brain behaviors. In response to these challenges and demands, we have developed a wearable fNIRS system, WearLight that was built upon an Internet-of-Things embedded architecture for onboard intelligence, configurability, and data transmission. In addition, we have pursued detailed research and comparative analysis on the design of the optodes encapsulating an near-infrared light source and a detector into 3-D printed material. We performed rigorous experimental studies on human participants to test reliability, signal-to-noise ratio, and configurability. Most importantly, we observed that WearLight has a capacity to measure hemodynamic responses in various setups including arterial occlusion on the forearm and frontal lobe brain activity during breathing exercises in a naturalistic environment. Our promising experimental results provide an evidence of preliminary clinical validation of WearLight. This encourages us to move toward intensive studies involving brain monitoring.
On The S-Matrix of Ising Field Theory in Two Dimensions

We explore the analytic structure of the non-perturbative S-matrix in arguably the simplest family of massive non-integrable quantum field theories: the Ising field theory (IFT) in two dimensions, which may be viewed as the Ising CFT deformed by its two relevant operators, or equivalently, the scaling limit of the Ising model in a magnetic field. Our strategy is that of collider physics: we employ Hamiltonian truncation method (TFFSA) to extract the scattering phase of the lightest particles in the elastic regime, and combine it with S-matrix bootstrap methods based on unitarity and analyticity assumptions to determine the analytic continuation of the 2 to 2 S-matrix element to the complex s-plane. Focusing primarily on the "high temperature" regime in which the IFT interpolates between that of a weakly coupled massive fermion and the E8 affine Toda theory, we will numerically determine 3-particle amplitudes, follow the evolution of poles and certain resonances of the S-matrix, and exclude the possibility of unknown wide resonances up to reasonably high energies.
Perspective on Open-Access Publishing: An Interview with Peter Suber

An Interview with Peter Suber by Reid Cornwell and Peter Suber Perspectives is a multimedia interview series moderated by Reid Cornwell, who talks with leading thinkers about creative uses of information technology tools to enhance the educational process. Each interview is accompanied by an extended reference list for readers who would like to know more. In this edition, Cornwell talks with Peter Suber about open-access publishing. Open-access literature is digital, online, free of charge, and free of unnecessary copyright and licensing restrictions. Suber has been a leader in the movement to promote open access as the default publishing mode for scholarly work. Viewing Options
New Hampshire in the 2016 General Election

How did Hillary Clinton win New Hampshire while losing other swing states like Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin? Exit polls suggest two factors help explain Clinton’s success in New Hampshire. First, the state’s small population of nonwhite voters broke overwhelmingly for Clinton. Second, the state’s high levels of educational attainment relative to other states meant that Clinton’s support among voters with postsecondary degrees had more of an impact in New Hampshire than it did in other swing states. This allowed Clinton to carry the state despite making fewer in-person appearances than Trump did.
Feasibility of Intermittent Hemodialysis in Metformin Toxicity With Shock

Abstract Background Metformin toxicity can lead to profound shock and has a high mortality rate. Supportive care and enhanced elimination are the mainstays of therapy. Intermittent hemodialysis (HD) produces a higher clearance of metformin than continuous veno-venous hemofiltration or hemodiafiltration (CVVH/HDF). Nevertheless, CVVH/HDF has been proposed as an alternative in critically ill patients with the suggestion that hypotension may limit the use of HD. Objective This study sought to analyze the feasibility of performing hemodialysis in patients with persistent shock from metformin toxicity. Methods We performed a 6-year (2012–2017) retrospective chart review of patients with metformin toxicity managed at a large academic institution with a toxicology service. We included patients with persistent shock on vasopressor support who were treated with HD. Baseline characteristics, complications from treatment, timing of dialysis, and differences between mean arterial pressures before, during, and at the end of dialysis were recorded and analyzed. Results Despite critical mean peak lactate (23.9 mMol/L [range 17.6–27.9]), pH (6.91 [range 6.78–7.01]), and metformin levels (range 25–58 μg/mL], 6 of 7 patients recovered. All patients required prolonged HD (mean 19 h). Upon completion of HD, hemodynamics had improved (45 mm Hg [95% confidence interval 35–55 mm Hg] vs. 80 mm Hg [95% confidence interval 74–86 mm Hg]) and vasopressor support decreased. Mortality in this patient cohort was 14.3% (1/7). Conclusion Intermittent HD is feasible in metformin toxicity despite persistent shock and high-dose vasopressor support. Mean arterial pressures improved during the course of HD and high blood flow rates were tolerated.
Chapter 8 – Data Structures

The chapter introduces two main data structures: cell arrays, and structures. The use of cell arrays to store strings of different lengths is shown. Combinations of data structures, such as nested structures and vectors of structures, are also introduced. Other data structures such as categorical arrays and tables are also demonstrated. Built-in sorting functions are described, as is the programming method of creating and using a selection sort algorithm. Finally, the concepts of indexing into a vector, particularly for a vector of structures, are introduced.
Popular music reaction videos: Reactivity, creator labor, and the performance of listening online:

In popular music reaction videos, performers on YouTube—called “creators”—record their reactions to popular music, filming themselves as they listen to music recordings and watch music videos. The ...
Self-Assembling Peptide Solution Accelerates Hemostasis.

Objective: One of the leading causes of death following traumatic injury is exsanguination. Biological material-based hemostatic agents such as fibrin, thrombin, and albumin have a high risk for ca...
On Control of Epidemics with Application to COVID-19

At the time of writing, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), had already resulted in more than thirty-two million cases infected and more than one million deaths worldwide. Given the fact that the pandemic is still threatening health and safety, it is in the urgency to understand the COVID-19 contagion process and know how it might be controlled. With this motivation in mind, in this paper, we consider a version of a stochastic discrete-time Susceptible-Infected-Recovered-Death~(SIRD)-based epidemiological model with two uncertainties: The uncertain rate of infected cases which are undetected or asymptomatic, and the uncertain effectiveness rate of control. Our aim is to study the effect of an epidemic control policy on the uncertain model in a control-theoretic framework. We begin by providing the closed-form solutions of states in the modified SIRD-based model such as infected cases, susceptible cases, recovered cases, and deceased cases. Then, the corresponding expected states and the technical lower and upper bounds for those states are provided as well. Subsequently, we consider two epidemic control problems to be addressed: One is almost sure epidemic control problem and the other average epidemic control problem. Having defined the two problems, our main results are a set of sufficient conditions on a class of linear control policy which assures that the epidemic is "well-controlled"; i.e., both of the infected cases and deceased cases are upper bounded uniformly and the number of infected cases converges to zero asymptotically. Our numerical studies, using the historical COVID-19 contagion data in the United States, suggest that our appealingly simple model and control framework can provide a reasonable epidemic control performance compared to the ongoing pandemic situation.
Changing climate drives future streamflow declines and challenges in meeting water demand across the southwestern United States

Abstract Society and the environment in the arid southwestern United States depend on reliable water availability, yet current water use outpaces supply. Water demand is projected to grow in the future and climate change is expected to reduce supply. To adapt, water managers need robust estimates of future regional water supply to support management decisions. To address this need, we estimate future streamflow in seven water resource regions in the southwestern U.S. using a new SPAtially Referenced Regressions On Watershed attributes (SPARROW) streamflow model. We present streamflow projections corresponding to input data from seven climate models and two greenhouse gas Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP4.5 and 8.5) for three, thirty-year intervals centered on the 2030s, 2050s, and 2080s, and for a historical thirty year interval centered on the 1990s. Across water resource regions, about half of the RCP4.5 models (51%) and two thirds of the RCP8.5 models (67%) indicate decreases in streamflow in the 2080s relative to the historical period. Models project maximum decreases in streamflow of 36-80% in all water resource regions for all periods and RCPs relative to historical streamflow, and maximum streamflow decreases of up to 20-45% in the 2080s at sites along the Colorado River used for measuring compliance with interstate and international water agreements. Headwaters are projected to experience the greatest declines, with substantial downstream implications. Among these estimates, the streamflows from models forced with RCP8.5 tend to be lower than those forced with RCP4.5. Not all climate models, times, and RCPs project widespread streamflow declines. The most ubiquitous streamflow increases are projected to occur in the 2030s under RCP4.5. Later time periods and enhanced greenhouse gas forcings indicate smaller regions of streamflow increase and lower accumulated streamflows, suggesting that limiting or reducing greenhouse gas concentrations could support future water availability. Although some possible streamflow increases are promising, the modest and spatially limited increases in streamflow projected for later time periods are still unlikely to be sufficient to meet the projected water demand. These results inform the likelihood of future water agreement compliance, and support developing strategies to balance water supply and demand.
Psychosocial Comorbidities in Adolescents With Histories of Childhood Apraxia of Speech

Purpose Adolescent psychosocial outcomes of individuals with histories of childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) were compared to outcomes of individuals with histories of speech sound disorders (SSD) o...