cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
MicroRNAs Micromanage Themselves

Since their discovery not long ago, microRNAs (miRNAs) have been extensively studied in hundreds of laboratories around the world. Initially thought of as merely cytoplasmic repressors of mRNA expression, it has since become more apparent that they also play regulatory roles in the nucleus. A recent study published in Nature introduces novel concepts in both miRNA regulation and function by showing that the let-7 miRNA regulates its own expression. miRNAs are key posttranscriptional regulators of gene expression. Over a thousand eukaryotic miRNAs have been discovered, many of which are predicted to target hundreds of mRNAs.1,2 Binding of the mature ≈21-nucleotide miRNA to target mRNAs typically silences their expression, providing a complex layer of fine-tuned gene regulation. However, in the past few years, it has become clear that miRNAs are themselves subjected to sophisticated regulatory mechanisms. In a recent Nature article, Zisoulis et al3 reported the first example of a direct miRNA autoregulatory loop. They showed that the Caenorhabditis elegans ( C. elegans ) let-7 miRNA induces its own maturation in an Argonaute (ALG-1)-dependent manner. RNA immunoprecipitation assays revealed an ALG-1–binding site containing a let-7 -complementary element near the 3′ end of the primary let-7 ( pri-let-7 ) transcript. Northern blots showed that mutant worms with the pri-let-7 –ALG-1 interaction disrupted had increased levels of the primary transcript and lower levels of the precursor and mature forms, suggesting a defect in pri-miRNA processing. Furthermore, the introduction of a wild-type let-7 gene into a let-7 mutant strain was able to upregulate levels of the mutant miRNA. Together, these data point to an intriguing new model whereby mature let-7 binds to a complementary element in the pri-let-7 transcript, recruiting ALG-1 and promoting its own downstream processing. The findings by Zisoulis et al3 introduce novel concepts in the regulation of let-7 expression and …
An optimization based approach to the partial scan design problem

The problem of selecting flip-flops for inclusion into a partial scan path is formulated as an optimization problem. Scan flip-flops result in layout and delay overheads. Hence, scan flip-flops have to be chosen such that the net cost associated with these overheads is bounded by some user-specified limit. The problem then reduces to choosing a set of flip-flops which gives the best improvement in testability, while keeping the cost bounded. Cost functions are proposed for a standard cell design approach to model the effects of the overheads. Profit functions for three different testability criteria are proposed, and the optimization methodology for each is discussed. The optimization process is modeled on the lines of the 0/1 knapsack problem. Results for some medium-sized sequential circuits which show a very large improvement in fault coverage obtained by optimally selecting a small fraction of the flip-flops in the circuit are presented. >
Moving the crowd at iStockphoto: The composition of the crowd and motivations for participation in a crowdsourcing application

Crowdsourcing is an online, distributed problem solving and production model already in use by for-profit organizations such as Threadless, iStockphoto, and InnoCentive. Speculation in Weblogs and wisdom of crowds theory assumes a diverse crowd engaged in crowdsourcing labor. Furthermore, and as crowdsourcing is in some ways similar to open source software production, prior research suggests that individuals in the crowd likely participate in crowdsourcing ventures to gain peer recognition and to develop creative skills. The present study tests these assumptions in the crowdsourcing community at iStockphoto. An online survey obtained 651 responses from iStockers to demographic and motivations questions. Results indicate that the desire to make money, develop individual skills, and to have fun were the strongest motivators for participation at iStockphoto, and that the crowd at iStockphoto is quite homogenous and elite. These data have implications for future research into crowdsourcing, particularly regarding notions of professionalism and investment in online communities.
Comprehending Care in a Medical Home: A Usual Source of Care and Patient Perceptions about Healthcare Communication

Objective: To examine whether having a usual source of care (USC) is associated with positive patient perceptions of health care communication and to identify demographic factors among patients with a USC that are independently associated with differing reports of how patients perceive their involvement in health care decision making. Methods: Cross-sectional analyses of nationally representative data from the 2002 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey. Among adults with a health care visit in the past year (n = ∼16,700), we measured independent associations between having a USC and patient perceptions of health care communication. Second, among respondents with a USC (n = ∼18,000), we assessed the independent association between various demographic factors and indicators of patients’ perceptions of their autonomy in making health care decisions. Results: Approximately 78% of adults in the United States reported having a USC. Those with a USC were more likely to report that providers always listened to them, always explained things clearly, always showed respect, and always spent enough time with them. Patients who perceived higher levels of decision-making autonomy were non-Hispanic, had health insurance coverage, lived in rural areas, and had higher incomes. Conclusions: Patients with a USC were more likely to perceive positive health care interactions. Certain demographic factors among the subgroups of Medical Expenditure Panel Survey respondents with a USC were associated with patient perceptions of greater decision-making autonomy. Efforts to ensure universal access to a USC must be partnered with broader awareness and training of USC providers to engage patients from various demographic backgrounds equally when making health care decisions at the point of care.
Left-sided atrioventricular nodal ablation using the transseptal approach: clinico-histopathologic correlation.

Transseptal Atrioventricular Nodal Ablation. To our knowledge, prograde access to the left ventricle to perform a left-sided AV node (AVN) ablation has not been reported. We present the case of a patient with Noonan's syndrome and supravalve aortic stenosis who required aortic valve replacement with a mechanical valve. Due to chronic atrial fibrillation, a transvenons pacing system was implanted and transcatheter radiofrequency ablation of the AVN was performed. Attempts at right-sided AVN ablation were unsuccessful. Due to the presence of the mechanical aortic valve, a left-sided AVN ablation was performed successfully using the transseptal approach. The patient died suddenly 6 months after the procedure, and the histologic study of the heart is reported.
A prospective, randomized, double-blind study comparing the efficacy of topical anesthetics in nasal endoscopy.

Introduction: Transnasal endoscopy is commonly performed in an outpatient otolaryngology setting. Patients are typically administered a topical anesthetic and decongestant prior to this procedure to alleviate discomfort and improve visualization. There is no consensus on which topical anesthetic is most effective in optimizing patient experience during the procedure. Objective: To determine whether there is a difference in the efficacy between atomized 2% tetracaine and 4% lidocaine as a topical anesthetic prior to transnasal endoscopy. Study Design: Prospective, randomized, double-blind study. Methods: A total of 99 patients received oxymetazoline and were randomized to receive either 2% tetracaine or 4% lidocaine prior to transnasal endoscopy. Immediately following the procedure, participants completed a survey assessing level of discomfort and other adverse symptoms pertaining to the procedure using a 10-point visual analog scale (VAS). Results: There were no significant differences in VAS scores between the lidocaine and tetracaine groups. There were also no significant differences between genders in overall VAS scores and in the lidocaine and tetracaine subgroups. Older patients demonstrated significantly less discomfort or a sensation of bad taste overall. In contrast to patients receiving lidocaine, older patients receiving tetracaine experienced significantly less overall pain and discomfort, unpleasant taste, and dyspnea. Conclusion: In patients undergoing transnasal endoscopy, use of either 2% tetracaine or 4% lidocaine has similar effect. Tetracaine may be a better choice in older patients, however.
CLINICOPATHOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF PROSTATIC ADENOCARCINOMA IN MEN WITH ATYPICAL PROSTATE NEEDLE BIOPSIES

AbstractPurpose: Atypical or nondefinitive diagnoses comprise 1.5 to 10% of all prostate needle biopsies and many men with atypical biopsy have carcinoma on rebiopsy. We characterize the clinical and pathological features of these men and the tumors, and compare them to those of other men who had more than 1 biopsy.Materials and Methods: All prostate needle biopsies done at our institution between 1989 and 1996 on men with a followup biopsy were reviewed and the clinicopathological features were correlated.Results: A total of 343 men had more than 1 biopsy during this period. Of the biopsies 64 were atypical and followup (repeat biopsy) was available for 59. Men with an atypical diagnosis were more likely to have carcinoma (34%) and to be diagnosed subsequently earlier (270 days) than those with an initial negative diagnosis (22%, 603 days). No significant differences were noted in patient age, results of digital rectal examination, initial or followup serum prostate specific antigen, subsequently identif...
Student Perceived Effectiveness of Computer Technology Use in Post-Secondary Classrooms

Abstract This study investigated the relationship between the amount of computer technology used in post-secondary education courses, students’ perceived effectiveness of technology use, and global course evaluations. Survey data were collected from 922 students in 51 courses at both the graduate and undergraduate levels. The survey consisted of 65 items broken down into seven areas, namely: (1) student characteristics, (2) learning experiences and course evaluations, (3) learning strategies, (4) instructional techniques, (5) computer use in course, (6) perceived effectiveness of computer use and (7) personal computer use. Contrary to expectations, no significant relationship was found between computer use and global course evaluations, nor was there a relationship between perceived effectiveness of computer use and global course evaluations. However, the results did yield a positive relationship between global course evaluations and the learning experiences that students engaged in. Students also indicated that they valued the use of computer technology for learning. Descriptive statistics on questions related to personal computer use show a strong favorable response to computer use and: facilitation of learning, value-added aspects such as usefulness to other classes and/or career, learning material in a more meaningful way, and working in groups with other students.
Framebreak: The Radical Redesign of American Business

The article presents a review of the book “Framebreak: The Radical Redesign of American Business,” by Ian I. Mitroff, Richard O. Mason, and Christine M. Pearson.
Modeling analytical ultracentrifugation experiments with an adaptive space-time finite element solution of the Lamm equation

Analytical ultracentrifugation experiments can be accurately modeled with the Lamm equation to obtain sedimentation and diffusion coefficients of the solute. Existing finite element methods for such models can cause artifactual oscillations in the solution close to the endpoints of the concentration gradient, or fail altogether, especially for cases where sω2/D is large. Such failures can currently only be overcome by an increase in the density of the grid points throughout the solution at the expense of increased computational costs. In this article, we present a robust, highly accurate and computationally efficient solution of the Lamm equation based on an adaptive space-time finite element method (ASTFEM). Compared to the widely used finite element method by Claverie and the moving hat method by Schuck, our ASTFEM method is not only more accurate but also free from the oscillation around the cell bottom for any sω2/D without any increase in computational effort. This method is especially superior for cases where large molecules are sedimented at faster rotor speeds, during which sedimentation resolution is highest. We describe the derivation and grid generation for the ASTFEM method, and present a quantitative comparison between this method and the existing solutions.
A new synthesis approach for feedback neural networks based on the perceptron training algorithm

In this paper, a new synthesis approach is developed for associative memories based on the perceptron training algorithm. The design (synthesis) problem of feedback neural networks for associative memories is formulated as a set of linear inequalities such that the use of perceptron training is evident. The perceptron training in the synthesis algorithms is guaranteed to converge for the design of neural networks without any constraints on the connection matrix. For neural networks with constraints on the diagonal elements of the connection matrix, results concerning the properties of such networks and concerning the existence of such a network design are established. For neural networks with sparsity and/or symmetry constraints on the connection matrix, design algorithms are presented. Applications of the present synthesis approach to the design of associative memories realized by means of other feedback neural network models are studied. To demonstrate the applicability of the present results and to compare the present synthesis approach with existing design methods, specific examples are considered.
Cloning and functional characterization of the murine mastermind-like 1 (Maml1) gene

The Notch signaling pathway controls cell fate decisions and plays a critical role in normal development and diseases. The human mastermind-like (MAML) family members (MAML1, 2 and 3) encode critical transcriptional co-activators for Notch receptors. In this study, we cloned a murine cDNA that is highly homologous to the human MAML1 gene, Maml1. Mouse Maml1 encodes a nuclear protein, binds to the ankyrin repeat domain of Notch receptors, forms a ternary complex with the intracellular domain of Notch (ICN) and the DNA binding protein CSL, and enhances Notch-induced transcription of the target gene, HES-1. Therefore, Maml1 is the murine homologue for human MAML1 and functions as a transcriptional co-activator for Notch signaling. We also characterized the organization of the mouse Maml1 gene: It spans at least 35 kilobases (kb) on chromosome 11 and contains five exons and four introns. Analysis of the 5V flanking region revealed that the promoter is TATA-less, and contains consensus binding sites for transcription factors such as Sp1, glucocorticoid receptor (GR), activating transcription factor (ATF) and cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB). Moreover, we examined Maml1 expression during early mouse development and found that Maml1 gene is expressed widely but selectively in several tissues. There seems to be close correlation of the spatial and temporal expression among Maml1, Notch1 and Hes1 in the central nervous system (CNS) during early development, implicating a role for the Maml1 gene in neurogenesis. D 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
A survey of anesthesiologists’ and nurses’ attitudes toward the implementation of an Anesthesia Information Management System on a labor and delivery floor

ABSTRACT Background An anesthesia information management system (AIMS) is most frequently used in the operating room, but not on labor and delivery (LD 56% believed it was not in a convenient location and 74% thought the AIMS equipment "got in their way". Conclusions Overall, the anesthesiologists and nurses are satisfied with the L&D AIMS and would not want to switch back to a handwritten record. We conclude that AIMS should not be limited to the operating room setting and can successfully be used in L&D.
An Annotated and updated Species List of the Coccinellidae (Coleoptera) of South Dakota

Abstract An updated list of 79 species of Coccinellidae for South Dakota is presented. The list represents a net increase in the state coccinellid fauna from a previously published list of 66 species and subspecific taxa, and it also includes nomenclatural updates. Thirteen species have been added to the list as new state records: Didion punctatum (Melsheimer), Didion nanum (LeConte), Scymnus paracanus linearis Gordon, Scymnus fraternus LeConte, Hyperaspis inflexa Casey, Hyperaspis lugubris (Randall), Hyperaspis troglodytes Mulsant, Hyperaspis brunnescens Dobzhansky, Hyperaspis quadrivittata LeConte, Brachiacantha decempustulata (Melsheimer), Brumoides septentrionis septentrionis (Weise), Hippodamia expurgata Casey, and Hippodamia sinuata crotchi Casey. Two specimens of Coccinella septempunctata L., collected in 1978 represent a new state record of this species from South Dakota. Eight other species were added after reviewing previously published species records and faunal distribution maps. Several entri...
Interactive control of diverse complex characters with neural networks

We present a method for training recurrent neural networks to act as near-optimal feedback controllers. It is able to generate stable and realistic behaviors for a range of dynamical systems and tasks - swimming, flying, biped and quadruped walking with different body morphologies. It does not require motion capture or task-specific features or state machines. The controller is a neural network, having a large number of feed-forward units that learn elaborate state-action mappings, and a small number of recurrent units that implement memory states beyond the physical system state. The action generated by the network is defined as velocity. Thus the network is not learning a control policy, but rather the dynamics under an implicit policy. Essential features of the method include interleaving supervised learning with trajectory optimization, injecting noise during training, training for unexpected changes in the task specification, and using the trajectory optimizer to obtain optimal feedback gains in addition to optimal actions.
Chemistry of Organophosphorus Insecticides

Publisher Summary This chapter introduces and summarizes the chemistry of organophosphorus insecticides. A classification scheme has been presented into which all commercially important OP insecticides fit, based on the central phosphorus atom and the four atoms immediately surrounding it. OP insecticides may be considered to be derivatives of phosphoric acid (H3PO4) or phosphonic acid (H3PO3) in which all H atoms are replaced by organic moieties. Thus, phosphates are compounds in which the P atom is surrounded by four O atoms. In many OPs, one or more of the oxygen atoms are replaced by sulfur and/or nitrogen. For phosphoric acid derivatives, the O, S, and N atoms can be arranged in 20 different configurations. Initially, elemental phosphorus is converted into P2S5 by reaction with sulfur or into PCl3 by direct chlorination. Trialklyl phosphites are particularly useful in the preparation of dialkyl vinyl phosphates from α-chloroaldehydes and ketones. For OPs with three different substituents on the P atom, it is necessary to begin with P(:O) Cl3 (from intermediate 3) or P(:S) Cl3 (from intermediate 4). Dialkyl phosphates with phenolic or heterocyclic leaving groups are easily prepared from the phenol or heterocyclic alcohol and the dialkyl phosphorochloridate. Unfortunately, the only phosphorochloridates readily available commercially are the dimethyl and the diethyl, the former being quite unstable. OP insecticides, when kept cool, dark, and anhydrous, are usually quite stable. Exposure to heat, light (especially ultraviolet), and/or water, however, may lead to chemical alterations. The three primary reactions involving the phosphorus atom and those immediately surrounding it are hydrolysis, oxidation, and rearrangement.
Leading Edge Vortex Stability in a Flapping Model Hummingbird Wing

The unsteady low Reynolds number aerodynamics of flapping motion is investigated experimentally through visualization and an array of micro hot film anemometry shear sensors. The flapping motion and wing are modeled after a hummingbird during hovering flight. Flow visualization is used to validate the signal output of the hot film sensors detecting leading edge vortex (LEV) characteristics, and investigate the necessity of spanwise flow in LEV stability. Shear sensors are employed to determine flow attachment and analyze the size and location of vorticity throughout stroke periods. Leading edge vorticity appears to become very unstable when spanwise flow is blocked, implying that flow axially from the base to the wing tip is required to bleed building LEV strength. This observation is supported by shear sensors that indicate a growth in LEV size throughout wing translation, and vortex shedding at the end of high frequency stroke cycles.
Further Study of the Bacteriemia of Experimental Streptococcus Endocarditis.

When the aortic or mitral valves of dogs are injured by passing a suitable steel rod down the left carotid artery, the resulting wound of the valve shows, at the end of 49 days, a hyalin-like mass at the point of injury. As late as 60 days after such injury the injection intravenously, of non-hemolytic streptococci results, constantly, in a bacterial vegetative growth on the injured area productive of petechiae, infarctions, thrombo-glomerular nephritis, and small areas in the heart muscle in which a round cell infiltration follows a punctate hemorrhage.In four dogs the healing of the injury was not altered by the injection either before or after injury, of egg albumin, followed in three weeks by a second injection, which was in turn made three days before autopsy.A strain of non-hemolytic streptococcus isolated from the blood of a patient with acute rheumatic fever, and having some virulence for white mice, and a strain from a normal throat having no virulence for mice, were equally successful in produci...
Design and Implementation of Bee Products Traceability Information Service Platform

In this article aimed at the problems of domestic bee industry such as difficulties in production standards,cultivation management and quality control,in combination of the characteristics of the bee products supply chain from the production,processing,circulation and sale,the necessity,design ideas,technical features and application situation of the bee products traceability information service platform were analyzed and discussed and its frame structure was determined in order to realize the monitoring and management for the whole process of bee products quality and ensure the quality and security of bee products.
Effects of animal-to-animal exchange of ruminal contents on the feed intake and ruminal characteristics of fed and fasted lambs.

Four Suffolk x Hampshire wether lambs averaging 55 kg with permanent ruminal cannulas were used in a 4 x 4 Latin square design to determine the effects of exchange of ruminal contents between fed and fasted lambs on subsequent DMI and ruminal characteristics. Lambs were fed a pelleted 70% roughage diet at 2% of BW for 17 d. During each period of the Latin square two lambs were deprived of feed and water for 3 d. At the end of the fasting period ruminal contents from one fed and one fasted lamb were exchanged. Lambs were then given ad libitum access to feed for 8 d, during which DMI, feeding pattern, and ruminal characteristics were monitored. Measurements of ruminal volume determined by total collection and indigestible marker (lithium sulfate) suggested that only about 50% of total ruminal contents were actually exchanged. Fasted lambs had lower (P less than .05) DMI, ruminal fermentative capacity, ruminal DM weight, and ruminal DM percentage than fed lambs during the first 4 d of realimentation. Exchange of ruminal contents did not (P greater than .10) affect DMI, feeding pattern, ruminal fluid pH, ruminal fermentative capacity, ruminal contents DM percentage, ruminal nucleic acid concentration, or VFA. Dosing fasted lambs with ruminal contents from nonfasted lambs reduced (P less than .05) ruminal liquid volume, dry weight of ruminal contents, and propionate concentration. Results of this trial are interpreted to indicate that although decreased ruminal function is a factor in the low feed intakes of fasted ruminants, the possibility of increasing postfast feed intake via improved ruminal function is limited because other metabolic factors may play a more important role.
Simulated Sensitivity of Tropical Cyclone Size and Structure to the Atmospheric Temperature Profile

AbstractThis study uses the WRF ARW to investigate how different atmospheric temperature environments impact the size and structure development of a simulated tropical cyclone (TC). In each simulation, the entire vertical virtual temperature profile is either warmed or cooled in 1°C increments from an initial specified state while the initial relative humidity profile and sea surface temperature are held constant. This alters the initial amount of convective available potential energy (CAPE), specific humidity, and air–sea temperature difference such that, when the simulated atmosphere is cooled (warmed), the initial specific humidity and CAPE decrease (increase), but the surface energy fluxes from the ocean increase (decrease).It is found that the TCs that form in an initially cooler environment develop larger wind and precipitation fields with more active outer-core rainband formation. Consistent with previous studies, outer-core rainband formation is associated with high surface energy fluxes, which le...
Tau Positron Emission Tomographic Imaging in the Lewy Body Diseases.

Importance The causes of cognitive impairment in dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) and Parkinson disease (PD) are multifactorial. Tau pathologic changes are commonly observed at autopsy in individuals with DLB and PD dementia, but their contribution to these diseases during life is unknown. Objective To contrast tau aggregation in DLB, cognitively impaired persons with PD (PD-impaired), cognitively normal individuals with PD (PD-normal), and healthy persons serving as control participants, and to evaluate the association between tau aggregation, amyloid deposition, and cognitive function. Design, Setting, and Participants This cross-sectional study was conducted from January 1, 2014, to April 28, 2016, in a tertiary care center’s memory and movement disorders units. Twenty-four patients with Lewy body disease (7 DLB, 8 PD-impaired, and 9 PD-normal) underwent multimodal brain imaging, cognitive testing, and neurologic evaluation, and imaging measures were compared with those of an independently acquired group of 29 controls with minimal brain amyloid burden as measured with carbon 11–labeled Pittsburgh Compound B ([ 11 C]PiB) positron emission tomography (PET). Exposures Imaging with fluorine 18–labeled AV-1451 ([ 18 F]AV-1451) (formerly known as [ 18 F]T807), [ 11 C]PiB PET, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), neurologic examination, and detailed cognitive testing using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Clinical Dementia Rating scale. Main Outcomes and Measures Main outcomes were differentiation of diagnostic groups on the basis of [ 18 F]AV-1451 binding, the association of [ 18 F]AV-1451 binding with [ 11 C]PiB binding, and the association of [ 18 F]AV-1451 binding with cognitive impairment. All but 3 individuals underwent amyloid imaging with [ 11 C]PiB PET. The hypotheses being tested were formulated before data collection. Mini-Mental State Examination (range, 0-30, with 30 being best) and Clinical Dementia Rating scale sum-of-boxes scale (range, 0-18, with 0 being best) were used for assessment of cognitive function. Results In patients with DLB, cortical [ 18 F]AV-1451 uptake was highly variable and greater than in the controls, particularly in the inferior temporal gyrus and precuneus. Foci of increased [ 18 F]AV-1451 binding in the inferior temporal gyrus and precuneus were also evident in PD-impaired patients. Elevated cortical [ 18 F]AV-1451 binding was observed in 4 of 17 patients with Lewy body disease with low cortical [ 11 C]PiB retention. For DLB and PD-impaired patients, greater [ 18 F]AV-1451 uptake in the inferior temporal gyrus and precuneus was associated with increased cognitive impairment as measured with the MMSE and the Clinical Dementia Rating scale sum-of-boxes score. Conclusions and Relevance Patients with Lewy body disease manifest a spectrum of tau pathology. Cortical aggregates of tau are common in patients with DLB and in PD-impaired patients, even in those without elevated amyloid levels. When present, tau deposition is associated with cognitive impairment. These findings support a role for tau copathology in the Lewy body diseases.
Film/Foil power capacitor

The high cost of energy prompted General Electric Company's introduction of the Film/Foil power capacitor in January 1979. These new all-film dielectric power capacitors save energy by reducing internal losses to half those of capacitors using conventional Film/Paper dielectric. The change to all-film required a new means to assure impregnation. To replace the wicking action of the paper, both embossed foil and Hazy (R) film are used to enhance liquid flow. The unique embossed foil pattern and the Hazy (R) film's textured surface are both General Electric Company developments. The Film/Foil design also has a new impregnant, Dielektrol III. The base liquid, phenyl xylyl ethane, was chosen to be the best of several liquids suitable for impregnating the all-film dielectric. It has been established an environmentally acceptable capacitor fluid. This presentation will deal with the physical and chemical properties of the film, foil, and liquid and the electrical properties of the capacitors containing them.
Optimum Control of HVAC System to Save Energy

Abstract The scope of the paper is to control an environmental space to provide comfort and to save energy. The controlled space could well be in a residence, business building, submarine, space shuttle, etc. The results of this work indicated that the heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) systems can be controlled to be energy efficient and still comfortable. The work consists of the multivariable simulation, control, and optimization of an environmental space. The model of the space has three variables: temperature, relative humidity, and air velocity. The comfort conditions are functions of these variables. A function for energy use is developed for optimization. The optimization problem to minimize the energy use and to remain within comfort region is formulated and solved. The methods of solution is demonstrated and a simulation problem is worked out for a specific environmental space. Also methods of implementation are proposed to the current HVAC equipment.
The role of damage- and pathogen-associated molecular patterns in inflammation-mediated vulnerability of atherosclerotic plaques.

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease resulting in the formation of the atherosclerotic plaque. Plaque formation starts with the inflammation in fatty streaks and progresses through ath...
Costal and Auricular Cartilage Grafts for Nasal Reconstruction: An Anatomic Analysis.

Objectives The aim of this study was to measure the length, width, and surface area of costal and auricular cartilage harvested for grafting in rhinoplasty and nasal reconstruction. We also compared the sizes of ear cartilage grafts harvested from the anterior and posterior approaches. Methods Fifty-eight nasal reconstructive surgeries requiring rib or ear cartilage were performed by 2 facial plastic surgeons from February 2015 through January 2016. Among the 57 cases that met inclusion criteria, they comprised of 33 costal cartilage grafts and 24 auricular cartilage grafts (17 via anterior approach and 7 via posterior approach). Results The mean length, width, and surface area for the auricular cartilage grafts were 3.39 cm, 1.22 cm, and 4.38 cm2, respectively. The mean length, width, and surface area of the costal cartilage grafts were 4.21 cm, 1.46 cm, and 17.87 cm2, respectively. The differences in length, width, and surface area between the anterior versus posterior approach groups were all statistically significant. Conclusions In our study, ear cartilage grafts harvested from the posterior approach had significantly greater length, width, and surface area. While this analysis has several limitations, it sets quantitative norms for costal and auricular cartilage harvest that can aid in surgical planning.
E-government services and social media adoption: Experience of small local governments in Nebraska state

Abstract Considering that social media as new tools complement existing e-government services, it is necessary to understand what types of e-government services better fit with different social media tools. The roles of e-government services in the adoption of social media in government are understudied and little is known about social media use in small local governments. This research addresses these research gaps by exploring the relationship between different types of e-government service and social media adoption by small local governments. It also explores how these small local governments use social media. Drawing from e-government and social media literature, it offers hypotheses by focusing on the relationship between e-government service characteristics and the adoption of Facebook and Twitter in the context of small local government. Using original survey and census data of local governments in Nebraska, it finds that transaction services are associated with the adoption of Facebook while information services are related to the adoption of Twitter.
Numerical and experimental analysis of heat distribution in the laser powder bed fusion of Ti-6Al-4V

Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) of metallic parts is a complex process involving simultaneous interplay between several physical mechanisms such as solidification, heat transfer (convection, conduct...
Three years of low-power image recognition challenge: Introduction to special session

Reducing power consumption has been one of the most important goals since the creation of electronic systems. Energy efficiency is increasingly important as battery-powered systems (such as smartphones, drones, and body cameras) are widely used. It is desirable using the on-board computers to recognize objects in the images captured by these cameras. The Low-Power Image Recognition Challenge (LPIRC) is an annual competition started in 2015. The special session includes presentations given by the winners of the first three years of LPIRC. This paper explains the rules of the competition and the rationale, summarizes the teams' scores, and describes the lessons learned in the first three years. The paper suggests possible improvements of future challenges.
Analysis of foldable acoustic arrays from piecewise linear, conformal, and tessellated topologies

Arrays of acoustic sources distributed over the tessellated frameworks of origami-inspired folding patterns demonstrate exceptional and straightforward adaptivity of acoustic wave guiding architecture to contrast to the challenges manifest in digital wave guiding control methods. Yet, when the concept of folding arrays is applied to tessellations formed by single patterns, acoustic fields with distinct distributions of energy delivery cannot be realized. To overcome this limitation, here multiple folding patterns are assembled by piecewise geometries that permit the array to conform to unique topologies when reconfigured by physical folding actions. An analytical model is developed to predict the acoustic pressure radiated from the acoustic sources arranged on piecewise-continuous surfaces, while experiments are conducted to demonstrate the concept and validate the model. Parametric investigations are then undertaken to uncover the relations of modularity and folding of the acoustic array and the resulting acoustic energy delivery and distributions. The results find that the assembly of tessellated arrays from multiple distinct folding pattern sub-elements may replicate the acoustic wave guiding of complex acoustic sources that traditionally do not enable adaptive wave radiation properties.Arrays of acoustic sources distributed over the tessellated frameworks of origami-inspired folding patterns demonstrate exceptional and straightforward adaptivity of acoustic wave guiding architecture to contrast to the challenges manifest in digital wave guiding control methods. Yet, when the concept of folding arrays is applied to tessellations formed by single patterns, acoustic fields with distinct distributions of energy delivery cannot be realized. To overcome this limitation, here multiple folding patterns are assembled by piecewise geometries that permit the array to conform to unique topologies when reconfigured by physical folding actions. An analytical model is developed to predict the acoustic pressure radiated from the acoustic sources arranged on piecewise-continuous surfaces, while experiments are conducted to demonstrate the concept and validate the model. Parametric investigations are then undertaken to uncover the relations of modularity and folding of the acoustic array and the resultin...
Stress and CNS Arousal: Genomic Contributions

The arousal state of an organism underlies all behavioral responses. Arousal can lead to greater performance and productivity; however, in excess it can also lead to stress. In this review, we give a brief synopsis of the neuroanatomical and neurochemical basis of arousal and provide examples of how disorders of arousal affect everyday life.
STOCHASTIC GAMES WITH LIM SUP PAYOFF

Consider a two-person zero-sum stochastic game with countable state space S, finite action sets A and B for players 1 and 2, respectively, and law of motion p.
Contemporary Ethical Dilemmas in Psychotherapy: Cosmetic Psychopharmacology and Managed Care

Two contemporary ethical dilemmas facing psychotherapists have been noted and described: cosmetic psychopharmacology and the practice of psychotherapy in a managed care environment. Regarding cosmetic psychopharmacology: It was noted that whether a psychotherapist endorses the use of psychotropic agents for cosmetic purposes, such as self-transformation, seems to be a function of the severity of the client/patient symptoms as well as the psychotherapist's view of human nature and the human condition. However, recent research indicates that certain traits or reflections of the human condition, such as irritability, may actually be neurotransmitter deficiencies that are responsive not only to psychotropic agents but also to non-drug interventions. These findings add an additional dimension to discussions of the ethics of cosmetic psychopharmacology. Regarding psychotherapy in a managed care environment: Several ethical dilemmas, including confidentiality, were discussed. These dilemmas were outlined rather than analyzed in detail. Some of them will become major "thorns" of concern for the practice of psychotherapy. Others will be less consequential. Of critical concern is that limitations by managed care on the technique and optimal length of treatment of psychotherapy can conceivably lessen its efficacy for some patients and could possibly eliminate this powerful treatment procedure for others.
Review: Vulnerabilities in cognitive radio networks: A survey

Cognitive radio networks are envisioned to drive the next generation wireless networks that can dynamically optimize spectrum use. However, the deployment of such networks is hindered by the vulnerabilities that these networks are exposed to. Securing communications while exploiting the flexibilities offered by cognitive radios still remains a daunting challenge. In this survey, we put forward the security concerns and the vulnerabilities that threaten to plague the deployment of cognitive radio networks. We classify various types of vulnerabilities and provide an overview of the research challenges. We also discuss the various techniques that have been devised and analyze the research developments accomplished in this area. Finally, we discuss the open research challenges that must be addressed if cognitive radio networks were to become a commercially viable technology.
Trap-jaw predation and other observations on two species ofMyrmoteras (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)

Field and laboratory studies on a colony ofMyrmoteras toro collected in Central Sulawesi and aM. barbouri colony from Singapore have provided the first ecological and behavioral information on this enigmatic formicine genus. Both species capture prey singly by the trap-jaw method, much as do many dacetine and odontomachine ants. Before striking the ants open their jaws 280°, the greatest degree yet recorded in the ants. Also, the nest area is defended from encroachment by other invertebrates by slapping intruders repeatedly with the mandibles.
Ethical Compatibility of Small Business Owners/Entrepreneurs and Student Consultants

This study focuses on value judgments and ethical positions of student consultants and small business owner/entrepreneur clients. The value judgments, ethical positions and underlying value orientations of the two groups are quite similar. However , the expressed perceptions of the ethical values of others are considerably different from the respondents' own values. The potential impact of these differences on the effectiveness of the consulting process is explored . Ways to clarify perceptual differences are proposed . The findings from this study should have direct implications for consultants, small business owners, entrepreneurs, educators, and other individuals involved in small business practices.
Outcomes and influences of rural-focused integrated clerkship programs in general surgery.

Abstract Background A shortage of general surgeons is predicted in the future, with particular impact on rural surgery. This is an exploratory analysis on a rural-focused longitudinal integrated clerkship to determine if such clerkships can be used to increase interest and recruitment in rural general surgery. Methods An institutional database was reviewed to identify students who became general surgeons after completing a rural-focused longitudinal integrated clerkship. Telephone interviews were conducted on a portion of these surgeons. Results Fifty-seven students (3.6%) completing the rural-focused longitudinal integrated clerkship became general surgeons. Of those participating in phone interviews, most (90%) decided to become surgeons during their experience while all stated that preclinical years did not influence their specialty decision. Conclusions A substantial portion of these surgeons went on to practice in rural communities. Pre-existing rural and primary care-focused education could help to address the future projected shortage of rural general surgeons.
Robotic-Assisted Stereotaxy for Deep Brain Stimulation Lead Implantation in Awake Patients

BACKGROUND Robotic-assisted stereotaxy has been increasingly adopted for lead implantation in stereoelectroencephalography based on its efficiency, accuracy, and precision. Despite initially being developed for use in deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery, adoption for this indication has not been widespread. OBJECTIVE To describe a recent robotic-assisted stereotaxy experience and workflow for DBS lead implantation in awake patients with and without microelectrode recording (MER), including considerations for intraoperative research using electrocorticography (ECoG). METHODS A retrospective review of 20 consecutive patients who underwent simultaneous bilateral DBS lead implantation using robotic-assisted stereotaxy was performed. Radial error was determined by comparing the preoperative target with the DBS lead position in the targeting plane on postoperative computed tomography. Information regarding any postoperative complications was obtained by chart review. RESULTS A novel method for robot coregistration was developed. We describe a standard workflow that allows for MER and/or ECoG research, and a streamlined workflow for cases in which MER is not required. The overall radial error for lead placement across all 20 patients was 1.14 ± 0.11 mm. A significant difference (P = .006) existed between the radial error of the first 10 patients (1.46 ± 0.19 mm) as compared with the second 10 patients (0.86 ± 0.09 mm). No complications were encountered. CONCLUSION Robotic-assisted stereotaxy has the potential to increase precision and reduce human error, compared to traditional frame-based DBS surgery, without negatively impacting patient safety or the ability to perform awake neurophysiology research.
Uptake of HIV testing among adolescents and associated adolescent-friendly services.

HIV testing remains low among adolescents. Making public health services more adolescent-friendly is one strategy used to encourage testing. However, it remains unclear whether government-led initiatives have a meaningfully impact. The current study is observational and utilizes two sources of data (health-facility and adolescent-level) from one round of data collection of an on-going, longitudinal impact evaluation of a pilot cash plus program targeting adolescents. This study linked data from adolescent surveys (n = 2191) to data collected from nearby government-run health facilities (n = 91) in two rural regions of Tanzania. We used log binomial regression models to estimate the association between specific adolescent-friendly health service (AFHS) characteristics and adolescents’ uptake of 1) HIV testing and 2) visiting a health care facility in the past year for sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services. Most adolescents (67%) lived in a village with a health facility, and all offered HIV services. We find, however, that AFHS have not been fully implemented. For example, less than 40% of facilities reported that they had guidelines for adolescent care. Only 12% of facilities had a system in place for referral and follow-up with adolescent clients, yet this was an important predictor of both past-year HIV testing (RR = 1.28, p < 0.1) and SRH visits (RR = 1.44, p < 0.05). Less than half (44%) offered services for survivors of gender-based violence (GBV), a significant predictor of past-year HIV testing (RR = 1.20, p < 0.05) and SRH visits (RR = 1.41, p < 0.01) among sexually-active adolescents. We find that national guidelines on AFHS have not been fully translated into practice at the local level. We highlight particular gaps in adolescent referral systems and GBV services. Scaling up these two essential services could encourage greater HIV testing among a high-risk population, in addition to providing much needed support for survivors of violence.
“Reasonable Assurance” of “No Undue Risk”

(1968). “Reasonable Assurance” of “No Undue Risk”. Scientist and Citizen: Vol. 10, No. 5, pp. 128-141.
Short Interest vs. Short Selling

We examine the relation between the monthly reported short interest (the number of shares that are in outstanding short positions) and short selling. We aggregate transaction level short selling into monthly short turnover (a measure of the shorting flow) and find that short turnover and short interest have a correlation of slightly over 45%, which is much lower than our expectations. We also examine whether short interest and/or short selling are informative of future returns. We find that short selling (the shorting flow) shows evidence of predicting returns, while short interest does not. We also examine short selling around the announcement of monthly short interest. We find that short selling increases prior to the announcement of monthly short interest.