cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An ultrasonic rangefinder based on an AlN piezoelectric micromachined ultrasound transducer

An ultrasonic rangefinder has a working range of 30mm to 450mm and operates at a 375 Hz maximum sampling rate. The worst-case systematic error less than 1.1 mm. The rms noise is proportional to the square of the distance and equals 1.3mm at the maximum range. The range measurement principle is based on pulse-echo time of flight measurement using a single transducer for transmit and receive consisting of a piezoelectric AlN membrane with 400 µm diameter which was fabricated using a low-temperature process compatible with processed CMOS wafers. All circuits are low voltage, enabling integration in standard low voltage circuit technology.
Preliminary report on the use of a tuning fork in gravity measurements

it were possible to use a tuning fork as a standard of time, the process of making gravity observations would be much quickened. Two causes of variability in the tuning fork are to be considered: temperature and amplitude. Temperature can be controlled, or at least allowed for, more readily than amplitude can. Forks of various materials have been studied, and it has been found that magnesium appears to be a promising material. In order to follow up this question, it is necessary to push the rating of a fork much farther than has been the customary practice.
Identification and Remediation of Systematic Error Patterns in Subtraction

The present study investigated 90 elementary teach- ers' ability to identify two systematic error patterns in subtraction and then prescribe an instructional focus. Presented with two sets of 20 completed subtraction problems comprised of basic facts, computation, and word problems representative of two students' math performance, participants were asked to examine each incorrect subtraction problem and describe the errors. Participants were subsequently asked which type of error they would address first during math instruction to correct students' misconceptions. An analysis of the data indicated teachers were able to describe specific error patterns. However, they did not base their instruc- tional focus on the error patterns identified, and more than half of the teachers chose to address basic subtraction facts first during instruction regardless of error type. Limitations of the study and implications for practice are discussed.
From depth and optical flow to rigid body motion

The authors develop an algorithm to determine uniquely the rigid body motion from optical flow and depth, where the depth, however, does not involve any derivative information. Thus, the original assumptions made by D.H. Ballard and O.A. Kimball (1983) and by R.M. Haralick and X. Zhuang (1986) are relaxed. The proposed algorithm is appealing; in contrast to the existing linear optical flow-motion algorithms, it requires only three instead of eight optical flow image points. >
Elemental and isotopic geochemistry of nonhydrated quartz latite glasses from the Eureka Valley Tuff, east-central California

The Eureka Valley Tuff, erupted from the late Miocene Little Walker volcanic center, east-central California, includes two major ash-flow sheets: the more voluminous, widespread, and more silicic Tollhouse Flat Member and the overlying By-Day Member. Nonhydrated quartz latitic glasses from the Tollhouse Flat and By-Day Members have, respectively, 65.5 and 63.3 wt percent SiO 2 and are extremely rich in large-ion lithophile elements. The K 2 O contents and K/Rb ratios are 5.3 wt percent and 195 for the Tollhouse Flat glass and 5.5 wt percent and 190 for glasses from the By-Day Member. FeO*/MgO (FeO* = total Fe as FeO) ratios are transitional between values characteristic of basaltic and calc-alkalic suites. Initial 87 Sr/ 86 Sr ratios of 0.7054 to 0.7055 are consistent with the pattern of northwestward decrease in 87 Sr/ 86 Sr observed for Mesozoic plutonic and Cenozoic volcanic rocks in the western Great Basin and Sierra Nevada provinces. The glasses are higher in Rb than are Mesozoic granitic rocks of the Sierra Nevada batholith that have comparable Sr contents and initial 87 Sr/ 86 Sr ratios. Pb isotopic compositions fall at the upper end of arrays found for upper Cenozoic calc-alkalic rocks from the Cascade Mountains and nearly on trends found for rocks of the Sierra Nevada batholith. The moderately high FeO*/MgO ratios, very low Co, Cr, and Ni contents, high Ba/Sr and K/Sr ratios, and approximately 25 percent negative Eu anomalies demonstrate that the glasses are the products of appreciable crystal fractionation. This in turn strongly suggests that the Eureka Valley Tuff was derived from a hypersthene-normative or only slightly quartz-normative parent magma. A model is outlined in which a potassic mafic parent magma was produced by a moderate degree of partial melting of diapirically upwelling, undepleted ultramafic mantle material followed by zone refining of upwelling mantle and other material within the asthenosphere and lithosphere. Extensive fractional crystallization and crystal separation subsequently enriched the melt further in large-ion lithophile elements. The evidence for appreciable plagioclase separation demonstrates that much fractionation took place well within the Earth9s crust. The Tollhouse Flat and By-Day Members were erupted from discrete — although closely related — bodies of magma. Lower water and halogen contents of the By-Day magma may have prevented the intratelluric crystallization of biotite and thereby allowed the magmatic liquid to become richer in K and Rb than that of the more highly fractionated Tollhouse Flat Member.
Inferring computational function of neuronal networks from multi-electrode array recordings: an evolutionary approach

The availability of microelectrode array systems (MEA’s) has increased dramatically in recent years. Along with this increase in availability, these systems have also grown in capability. Modern systems stimulate and record in-vitro neuronal networks on an increasing number of channels. Closed-loop capabilities further expand the functionality of these systems. Future miniaturization of these systems and commensurate increased resolution promises a continued rise in the volume of data being produced in this domain. It is difficult to determine if analysis tools are keeping pace with data generation. As of a few years ago Brown et al. saw a distinct need for investment in this vein[1]. It seems likely that data acquisition will continue to outstrip analysis just as it has in other bioinformatics domains. In 2006 Waganaar et al made available an extensive data set or recorded microelectrode array activity [2]. This data set contained both spontaneous and stimulated activity recorded regularly, from 58 unique cultures, of varying cell density, over a period of five weeks. While this study is referenced by hundreds of presenters and researchers, only a few groups have published analyses of this data. Patnaik et al stand out in that very small cohort as they sought to infer network structure from this data set based on the last 5 days of recordings from 6 cultures[3]. It is likely that these cultures were more static at this stage and were no longer developing connections at the same rate one may have observed in earlier time points. Genetic algorithms (GA’s) and other evolutionary computing techniques have a proven track record in temporal knowledge discovery, network analysis, and machine learning[4][5]. In this work we demonstrate the feasibility of using a GA to tease out temporal and spatial relationships in the neuronal networks. Our analysis yields a functional and explanatory model of signal propagation on MEA’s and the development of neuronal networks in-vitro. As shown in figure ​figure11 we seek to incorporate a broad range of MEA activity. The descriptive nature of the output from the evolutionary system can be tuned to include domain specific inferences. These models can present more actionable information for network design than their purely statistical counterparts. Figure 1 Generalized system view
Role of Protein Tyrosine Kinase and Erk1/2 Activities in the Toll-Like Receptor 2-Induced Cellular Activation of Murine B Cells by Neisserial Porin

Neisserial porins are potent immune adjuvants and have been demonstrated to stimulate and induce the activation of human and murine B lymphocytes. Their immunopotentiating ability is due largely to the upregulation of the surface expression of the costimulatory ligand CD86 (B7-2) on B cells and other antigen-presenting cells. Porin-induced activation is dependent on the innate immune pattern recognition receptor Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2). These data have led us to investigate the signal transduction events induced by PorB from Neisseria meningitidis and then, using inhibitors of these pathways, to establish the mechanism by which this bacterial major outer membrane protein induces CD86 upregulation and the proliferation of murine B cells. PorB was able to induce (i) protein tyrosine kinase (PTK) activity, (ii) the phosphorylation of Erk1 and Erk2, and (iii) IκB-α phosphorylation, leading to NF-κB nuclear translocation in B cells in a TLR2-dependent manner. PorB-induced NF-κB nuclear translocation was not dependent on either PTK or Erk1/2 activities. However, B-cell proliferation and the induction of increased surface expression of CD86 by PorB were dependent on PTK activity and not Erk1/2 activation. In conclusion, PorB acts through TLR2 as a B-cell mitogen, triggering tyrosine phosphorylation of various cellular proteins that are involved in proliferation and CD86 expression, as well as the phosphorylation of Erk1/2, which is not necessary for CD86 upregulation or the proliferation of B cells.
Mantle Echoes Associated with Deep Convection: Observations and Numerical Simulations

Abstract Finescale radar observations of intense thermals/starting plumes, during the early stages of precipitation formation, were collected by an airborne Doppler radar on two separate days. The radar data were recorded as the aircraft flew underneath the developing echoes. Mantle echoes (echoes that often appear as an inverted U shape) were observed on both days. Striking in one of the scans was the resemblance of the echo to a mushroom cloud resulting from a nuclear explosion. Numerical simulations using a two-dimensional cloud-resolving model were run to augment the interpretation of the observations. One of the important conclusions was the proposed modification to the default bulk microphysical scheme used in the model. The default scheme yields “a rush to precipitation” leading to the early establishment of large precipitation contents, which is not supported by the observations. Suggested modifications to the scheme are presented.
Radio synchrotron emission from secondary electrons in interaction-powered supernovae

Several supernovae (SNe) with an unusually dense circumstellar medium (CSM) have been recently observed at radio frequencies. Their radio emission is powered by relativistic electrons that can be either accelerated at the SN shock (primaries) or injected as a by-product (secondaries) of inelastic proton-proton collisions. We investigate the radio signatures from secondary electrons, by detailing a semi-analytical model to calculate the temporal evolution of the distributions of protons, primary and secondary electrons. With our formalism, we track the cooling history of all the particles that have been injected into the emission region up to a given time, and calculate the resulting radio spectra and light curves. For a SN shock propagating through the progenitor wind, we find that secondary electrons control the early radio signatures, but their contribution decays faster than that of primary electrons. This results in a flattening of the light curve at a given radio frequency that depends only upon the radial profiles of the CSM density and of the shock velocity, $v_0$. The relevant transition time at the peak frequency is $\sim 190 \, K_{\rm ep,-3}^{-1} A_{\rm w, 16} \beta_{0, -1.5}^{-2}\,{\rm d}$, where $A_{\rm w}$ is the wind mass-loading parameter, $\beta_0=v_0/c$ and $K_{\rm ep}$ is the electron-to-proton ratio of accelerated particles. We explicitly show that late peak times at 5 GHz (i.e., $t_{\rm pk} \gtrsim 300-1000$ d) suggest a shock wave propagating in a dense wind ($A_{\rm w} \gtrsim 10^{16}-10^{17}$ gr cm$^{-1}$), where secondary electrons are likely to power the observed peak emission.
Flight Tracks of Foraging Male Gypsy Moths and Wind Direction: A Reply to Kipp et al.

Kipp et al. (1985) have reanalyzed the Elkinton and Carde (1983) field data on the possible preference of male gypsy moths, Lymantria dispar (L.), for crosswind flight as a strategy to enhance the probability of contacting a pheromone plume. In our chi-square analysis we did not, as implicated, treat each 15 wind direction category separately or define categories with expected frequencies of less than 5.0. As stated, we lumped the observed flight directions into three categories: upwind ±30°, downwind ±30°, and crosswind ±60°; and found no significant tendency to fly in any of these directions. Kipp et al. have devised a lumping scheme that yields significant tendency for crosswind flight in but one of the three trials presented. They combined upwind and downwind flight into a single category which ignores the possibility that flight in either of these directions may be a viable foraging strategy. They create, for unexplained reasons, a separate category for 45 ± 7.5.
Describing the Prevalence of Neural Tube Defects Worldwide: A Systematic Literature Review

Background Folate-sensitive neural tube defects (NTDs) are an important, preventable cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. There is a need to describe the current global burden of NTDs and identify gaps in available NTD data.
Activation of CH4 by Th(+) as studied by guided ion beam mass spectrometry and quantum chemistry.

The reaction of atomic thorium cations with CH4 (CD4) and the collision-induced dissociation (CID) of ThCH4+ with Xe are studied using guided ion beam tandem mass spectrometry. In the methane reactions at low energies, ThCH2+ (ThCD2+) is the only product; however, the energy dependence of the cross-section is inconsistent with a barrierless exothermic reaction as previously assumed on the basis of ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry results. The dominant product at higher energies is ThH+ (ThD+), with ThCH3+ (ThCD3+) having a similar threshold energy. The latter product subsequently decomposes at still higher energies to ThCH+ (ThCD+). CID of ThCH4+ yields atomic Th+ as the exclusive product. The cross-sections of all product ions are modeled to provide 0 K bond dissociation energies (in eV) of D0(Th+–H) ≥ 2.25 ± 0.18, D0(Th+–CH) = 6.19 ± 0.16, D0(Th+–CH2) ≥ 4.54 ± 0.09, D0(Th+–CH3) = 2.60 ± 0.30, and D0(Th+–CH4) = 0.47 ± 0.05. Quantum chemical calculations at several levels of theory are used to ex...
Numerical simulation of section subway tunnel under surface explosion

Dynamic responses of section subway tunnel were studied by using LSDYNA under different yields of surface explosion for evaluation the blast-induced effects.The reinforcement of blot in the surrounding media are taken into consideration in the FEM models.The time histories of displacement,speed and strain of some key points of section subway tunnel were obtained under the different yields,and the safety assessment of subway structures under the surface explosions was completed.The numerical results indicates that the top part and the center at the bottom of the section subway tunnel are more damaged zones,and the section subway tunnel is safe when 100 kg TNT detonates at the height of 1.5 m.
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE NATURAL GAS RESERVOIR FORMATION OF EASTERN AND WESTERN FUYANG RESERVOIRS IN DAQING PLACANTICLINE

This paper compares the reservoir formation condition of natural gas in eastern and western Fuyang reservoirs in Daqing Placanticline and shows their difference. The area to the east of Daqing Placanticline has a better hydrocarbon exhaust condition from Qingshankou Member source to Fuyang reservoir than the western area. It has an better gas supply condition from Shahezi Member Yingcheng Member source to Fuyang Reservoir than the western area. Its oil soluble lost gas is less than that in the western area. So the eastern area has more exploration advantage than the western area.
Cell-Cycle Manipulation of Human Leukemic Progenitor Cells With Humoral Adjustment In Vitro

The cell-cycle change of human leukemic colony-forming cells was studied using a new agar culture method featuring daily feeding of new culture medium with or without leukocyte conditioned medium (LCM). Leukemic cells could be kept out of cycle by withholding LCM from daily feeding and put back into cycle by adding LCM to the daily feeding.
A rare case of pancreatic adenocarcinoma and subsequent metastatic insulinoma causing severe hypoglycemia

Objective: To report an unusual case of concurrent pancreatic adenocarcinoma and metastatic insulinoma causing severehypoglycemia in a patient with diabetes. Methods: The clinical presentation, biochemical studies, and relevant imaging of this patient are presented and the pertinentliterature is reviewed. Results: A 59-year-old man with a history of unresectable pancreatic adenocarcinoma and diabetes was admitted for persistenthypoglycemia, meeting all criteria for Whipple’s triad and requiring high-dose dextrose infusion. Prior outpatient abdominalimaging had revealed hepatic lesions that were biopsied and found to be a high-grade neuroendocrine carcinoma. On admission, laboratory evaluation revealed inappropriately suppressed beta-hydroxybutyrate levels, and inappropriately elevated insulin, C-peptide, and proinsulin levels. An octreotide scan revealed uptake in the hepatic lesions but not in the pancreatic head mass. Immunohistochemistry staining of prior liver biopsy samples was negative for insulin. Diazoxide therapy was initiated, butdiscontinued after the onset of hypotension. The hypoglycemia resolved only after trans-arterial chemoembolization of lesionsboth in the left and the right liver lobes, in combination with continued octreotide. Unfortunately, he subsequently developedrecurrent hypoglycemia three weeks later and ultimately passed away after transitioning to hospice care. Conclusions: Insulinomas are rare neoplasms of the pancreas that are characterized by insulin hypersecretion, which can bedebilitating and potentially life-threatening. The diagnosis of metastatic insulinoma is difficult to make in the setting of multiplecomorbidities and requires precise biochemical studies. Multiple medical treatments are available but the overall prognosis ispoor.
Coronary Exercise Hyperemia Is Impaired in Patients with Peripheral Arterial Disease

Background Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is an atherosclerotic vascular disease that affects over 200 million people worldwide. The hallmark of PAD is ischemic leg pain and this condition is also associated with an augmented blood pressure response to exercise, impaired vascular function, and high risk of myocardial infarction and cardiovascular mortality. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that coronary exercise hyperemia is impaired in PAD. Methods Twelve patients with PAD and no overt coronary disease (65 ± 2 years, 7 men) and 15 healthy control subjects (64 ± 2 years, 9 men) performed supine plantar flexion exercise (30 contractions/min, increasing workload). A subset of subjects ( n = 7 PAD, n = 8 healthy) also performed isometric handgrip exercise (40% of maximum voluntary contraction to fatigue). Coronary blood velocity in the left anterior descending artery was measured by transthoracic Doppler echocardiography; blood pressure and heart rate were monitored continuously. Results Coronary blood velocity responses to 4 min of plantar flexion exercise (PAD: Δ2.4 ± 1.2, healthy: Δ6.0 ± 1.6 cm/sec, P = 0.039) and isometric handgrip exercise (PAD: Δ8.3 ± 4.2, healthy: Δ16.9 ± 3.6, P = 0.033) were attenuated in PAD patients. Conclusion These data indicate that coronary exercise hyperemia is impaired in PAD, which may predispose these patients to myocardial ischemia.
Early HAART should be used for treatment-naive HIV patients with Pneumocystis pneumonia

A critical appraisal and clinical application of Manzardo C, Esteve A, Ortega N, et al. Optimal timing for initiation of highly active antiretroviral therapy in treatment-naive human immunodeficiency virus-1-infected individuals presenting with AIDSdefining diseases: the experience of the PISCIS Cohort. Clin. Microbiol. Infect. 2013 July;19(7):646-653. doi: 10.1111/j.14690691.2012.03991.x
Wider Gaps in a Flatter World? The Speed of New Product Diffusion in Rich versus Poor Countries

Marketing Science Institute Working Paper Series 2016 Report No. 16-113 Wider Gaps in a Flatter World? The Speed of New Product Diffusion in Rich versus Poor Countries Ashish Sood and Christophe Van den Bulte “Wider Gaps in a Flatter World? The Speed of New Product Diffusion in Rich versus Poor Countries” © 2016 Ashish Sood and Christophe Van den Bulte; Report Summary © 2016 Marketing Science Institute MSI working papers are distributed for the benefit of MSI corporate and academic members and the general public. Reports are not to be reproduced or published in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, without written permission.
Aluminum Powder Oxidation in CO2 and Mixed CO2/O2 Environments

An experimental study of oxidation of micrometer-sized aluminum powder in CO2 and CO2/O2 mixed oxidizers is described. The oxidation is studied using thermogravimetric (TG) measurements. Partially oxidized samples are recovered and their compositions are analyzed using X-ray diffraction. Oxidation of aluminum powders in CO2 occurs in several stages, similar to that in oxygen. Aluminum oxidation rates are effectively the same for O2 and CO2 oxidizers for the low-temperature oxidation processes controlled by the growth of the initial amorphous oxide, its transformation to the γ-Al2O3 polymorph, and initial growth of γ-Al2O3. At higher temperatures, the growth of transition alumina in oxygen occurs faster than it does in CO2. The thermal stability of the transition alumina polymorphs, primarily for θ-Al2O3, is extended to higher temperatures in the presence of CO2 so that the denser α-Al2O3 polymorph forms later than that in oxygen. Because of the lower diffusion resistance of transition alumina polymorphs a...
Autochthonous Transmission of Trypanosoma Cruzi in Southern California

Trypanosoma cruzi usually infects humans via triatomine insects in Latin America. Vector-borne transmission in the United States is exceedingly rare. We describe (1) the first case of probable autochthonous transmission reported in California in more than 30 years and (2) the first ever reported case in the greater Los Angeles area.
On impedance modeling of single-phase voltage source converters

This paper explores modeling of ac-side impedance for grid-connected single-phase voltage source converters (VSC). It shows that the conventional impedance, in the form of one-dimensional transfer function, may not completely capture the linearized dynamics of the converter. Resonance analysis using such impedance may fail for oscillations involving multiple frequency components. This problem is addressed by extending the impedance concept and defining a two-dimensional admittance for single-phase VSC. This admittance, in the form of a two-by-two transfer matrix, accurately captures the frequency cross-coupling effect that plays a critical role in low-frequency oscillations. A new form of signal-flow graphs is also introduced to represent the linearized dynamics of the VSC. These graphs visually demonstrate: a) the flow of perturbations through converter, b) why the conventional impedance fails in completely capturing the converter dynamics, c) how the two-dimensional model better captures them, and d) how to extend the concept further to higher dimensions without repeating the modeling process. Proposed two-dimensional and the conventional one-dimensional impedance models are developed for a single-phase VSC and they are validated using detailed circuit simulations.
“What’s Become of Our Bliss”? The politics of recognition: Reconsidered transracialism and transfiguration in Ralph Ellison’s Juneteenth

How do we create a true politics of inclusion, what Nelson Mandela has called a "non-racial democracy"? This essay argues for the importance of artistic repre­sentations of a "multiracial imagined community" in helping us to imagine a more attractive alternative to the "diseased imagination" of racialism. Ralph Ellison was an Oklahoma writer who emphasized our cultural inter-relatedness as a means of helping achieve a more inclusive politics. His novel Juneteenth illustrates the role of the arts in articulating a moral philosophy which can help create the change in consciousness which is a necessary precondition of reconstructive social move­ments. All reform requires coalitions, and coalitions require new vision: new para­digms to facilitate social and cultural awakening. Juneteenth critiques the root paradigm of racialism, and challenges the pieties of identity politics regarding how to create a new pattern. This essay concludes by applying the novel's complex dramatization of "the true inter-relatedness of blackness and whiteness" to con­temporary identity politics, such as racialized commentary about controversial Caucasian rap artist Eminem.
Valuing Non-Contractual Firms Using Common Customer Metrics

There is growing interest in "customer-based corporate valuation," explicitly tying the value of a firm's customer base to its financial valuation. While much progress has been made in building a well-validated customer-based valuation model for contractual (or subscription-based) firms, there has been little progress for non-contractual firms. Non-contractual businesses have more complex transactional patterns because they are characterized by latent attrition instead of observable churn behavior, and often have highly irregular purchase timing and spend amounts, making it harder to reconstruct granular purchase behaviors from aggregated metrics (e.g., active users and the repeat rate). Nevertheless, a number of firms disclose a variety of customer metrics to their shareholders. The authors use indirect inference, a well-established econometric estimation procedure, to estimate the aforementioned customer behaviors using aggregated metrics. The authors show how the predictive validity of the models varies as a function of the metrics used. They apply this methodology to data from a large business unit of an e-commerce retailer, valuing the business unit as a whole, decomposing this valuation into existing and yet-to-be-acquired customers, and analyzing customer profitability.
The politics of translation: notes towards an African language policy†

Recently I published a collection of essays with Seagull Press, under the title, Secure The Base: Making Africa Visible in the World. When two armies fight, they protect their own base, while they ...
Improvement of Handheld Radar Operators’ Hazard Detection Performance Using 3-D Visualization

Handheld ground-penetrating radar systems are employed in both military and humanitarian demining operations. Radar system operators are given the difficult job of determining the nature of subsurface objects from signal reflections in real time. Current systems require operators to multitask both collection and classification. This letter tested a 3-D data visualization method against a 2-D method. The 3-D method attempts to separate tasks by not forcing operators to classify objects in real time. Data showed that users classifying objects with the 3-D system had better performance and also reported that this system was more user-friendly. In addition, users were able to classify underground objects quicker with the 3-D system. The results of this letter demonstrate the benefit of 3-D visualization in ground scanning systems in increasing performance and decreasing cognitive load.
Care for the Postoperative Cardiac Surgery Patient

The care for patients after cardiac surgery should begin with standardized pathways, with the goal of structured care criteria rooted in best available evidence. Such pathways are only a starting place, however, as every patient’s procedure and course is unique. Optimal care relies on a team that is able to recognize deviations from normal physiology and recovery in the context of a given condition and procedure and that institutes early and appropriate action when faced with potential complications.
Genetic heterogeneity of white-tailed deer: management lessons from a long-term study

Genetic data from a long-term (16-year) study of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) on the U.S. Department of Energy's Savannah River Site (SRS) were examined to evaluate spatial and tem­ poral genetic heterogeneity in this species. Based on our analyses of the long-term data set, three major findings emerged, all of which have important implications for management of white-tailed deer: (1) There exists significant spatial genetic heterogeneity in white-tailed deer based on ana­ lyses of allozyme frequencies and mtDNA haplotypes. This heterogeneity exists on a much smaller spatial scale than would be expected for such a large and potentially mobile species as 0. virginia­ nus. (2) The genetic structure of white-tailed deer at SRS is temporally dynamic and significant het­ erogeneity exists within demographic units such as age and sex classes. (3) Levels of genetic varia­ tion, as measured by multilocus heterozygosity, are frequently correlated to characteristics that are important determinants of ecological function in white-tailed deer populations. These findings are evaluated in the context of a general management model for 0. virginianus that is also applicable to other wildlife species.
Preemption under the Securities Litigation Uniform Standards Act: If It Looks Like a Securities Fraud Claim and Acts Like a Securities Fraud Claim, Is It a Securities Fraud Claim?

This Article addresses the removal and preemption provisions of the Securities Litigation Uniform Standards Act of 1998 ("SLUSA"). In SLUSA, Congress preempted class actions alleging "an untrue statement or omission of a material fact in connection with the purchase or sale of a covered security." SLUSA clearly applies to preempt the typical state securities fraud action, forcing plaintiffs into federal court where they will be subject to the rigorous procedural requirements of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Preemption of false corporate publicity cases was expected and, in fact, intended by SLUSA. However, many courts have also extended SLUSA to preempt very different types of claims, including breach of fiduciary duty claims, breach of contract claims, and claims based on state deceptive and unfair trade practices acts. Not surprisingly, plaintiffs have argued that Congress never intended to preempt these types of claims, while defendants have argued just as forcefully that plaintiffs should not be able to circumvent the strong federal policies set forth in SLUSA through artful pleading. There is an obvious policy clash: a concern for federalism versus the prevention of frivolous actions and strike suits. In this Article, I try to clarify how courts should interpret SLUSA's preemption provision. I also discuss the interrelationship between preemption and the removal of actions to federal court, paying particular attention to the well-pleaded complaint rule and complete preemption doctrine. I conclude that SLUSA is not limited to state securities fraud claims. Instead, the statute requires courts to examine the allegations actually made in the complaint to determine if SLUSA is triggered. If the complaint alleges a materially misleading statement in connection with the purchase or sale of a covered security, the class action should be preempted, regardless of the theory of liability chosen by the plaintiff. Because I argue that SLUSA is triggered by the allegations actually made in the complaint, I reject those cases that have looked beyond the complaint to determine if the case is preempted. In addition, I demonstrate that plaintiffs should be permitted to avoid preemption through careful pleading; thus, for example, a plaintiff should be able to avoid preemption if he alleges that the defendant's fraud induced him to hold, rather than purchase or sell, his securities. Finally, I argue that SLUSA's "in connection with" requirement should be narrowly construed. My recommendations are based on statutory interpretation, legislative history, and the goals of the federal securities laws, including SLUSA. They are also founded on an understanding of the important policies that have been implicated by SLUSA. In particular, I argue that the courts have failed to sufficiently consider federalism concerns in interpreting SLUSA, potentially leading to a dangerous expansion of SLUSA's preemptive scope.
Apple Export Competition between the United States and China in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations

We developed a trade model under imperfect competition to analyze the market power of U.S. and Chinese apple producers in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) market and their domestic markets and the elimination of ASEAN tariffs on U.S. and Chinese apples. We also formulated welfare functions for the United States, China, and ASEAN. Comparative static results are derived to analyze the effect of tariff changes on exports, domestic sales, and welfare. Based on the theoretical model, we derived an econometric specification and used the new empirical industrial organization literature to estimate the market power of U.S. and Chinese apple producers. The econometric model is simulated to quantify the effect of tariff removal on exports and domestic sales.
Melanoma prognosis in the United States: Identifying barriers for improved care.

Background Despite improvements in melanoma mortality, disparities in melanoma survival persist. We evaluated possible sociodemographic and health care–based predictors of differences in melanoma survival in the United States by using the melanoma mortality-to-incidence ratio (MIR). Methods State-based MIRs were calculated by using US cancer statistics data from 1999 to 2014. Pearson correlations and linear regressions were used to determine associations between MIR and dermatologist density, primary care provider density, number of physicians by state, number of National Cancer Institute–designated cancer centers, health care spending per capita, average household income, racial/ethnic makeup of the population, percentage of uninsured individuals, and percentage with a bachelor's degree. Results The mean overall MIR was 0.15 ± 0.04; only Alaska was an outlier (0.24). No state MIRs increased significantly over time; MIR decreased for most states. Multivariable analysis revealed that states with more active physicians (P = .02) and a higher percentage non-Hispanic whites (P = .004) had higher MIRs (poorer survival). Significant Pearson correlations were seen between MIR and melanoma incidence (r = –0.72, P Conclusions Melanoma survival is improved in higher-incidence areas and areas with higher dermatologist density. These findings highlight areas of poorer melanoma survival and the need for local studies evaluating disparities in melanoma survival.
Achieving High Affinity and Selectivity for Asymmetric Dimethylarginine by Putting a Lid on a Box

The methylation states of Lys and Arg represent a particularly challenging set of targets to distinguish selectively in water using synthetic receptors. To date, trimethyllysine (Kme3) is the only post translational modification (PTM) of the eight possible methylation states of Lys and Arg that can be recognized selectively. Here, we report the first synthetic receptor capable of selectively recognizing asymmetric dimethylarginine (Rme2a). This was achieved by using a biased dynamic combinatorial chemistry (DCC) library to generate a receptor mimicking the 5-sided box-like shape of Rme2 reader proteins, a feature that has been hypothesized to impart selectivity. Additionally, we synthesized a thioether-linked analogue of the resulting receptor to provide a novel scaffold with maintained selectivity but greater stability. This work introduces strategies that can be applied towards achieving selectivity based on subtle differences in hydrophilic guests in aqueous solutions.
Brett C. Hoover: The Shared Parish: Latinos, Anglos, and the Future of US Catholicism

Immigration from Mexico and Latin America continue to redefine and transform the religious landscape of US churches. While Catholic parishes in large multi-ethnic cities like Los Angeles have a longer history of dynamic interaction with cultural and linguistic differences among parishioners, the more recent waves of immigration to the Midwest region of the United States posits new challenges for the Catholic church as more parishes are shared between Anglo and Latino communities. In a detailed ethnographic study of a particular Catholic parish in the Midwest (pseudonymously named All Saints in the pseudonymous town of Havenville), Brett Hoover invites the reader to consider the intricacies of day-to-day interaction, negotiation, and assumptions that take place when two culturally and linguistically distinct Catholic communities share the same parish facilities to coordinate their unique parish ministries and liturgies. Whereas one can more readily find statistics of the rising phenomenon of shared parishes across the country, it is more difficult to encounter an in-depth study that qualitatively illustrates and nuances both the potential gifts and the potential costs of a hybrid ecclesial structure whose identity is both that of two congregations (one Anglo and one Latino) and yet of one Catholic parish. At the root of Hoover’s study is the question of cultural diversity and the ways in which US Catholic churches have historically responded, are responding, and can creatively respond to the diverse communities that are already present in their midst. While parishes can simply wait for this phenomenon to affect them and then
Investigating How Microstructural Features Influence Stress Intensities in Pitting Corrosion

Despite the many advances made in material science, stainless steel and aluminum remain the structural materials best-suited for the naval fleet. While these metallic materials offer many benefits, such as high strength and good toughness, their persistent exposure to the maritime environment inevitably leads to issues with corrosion. Among the various manifestations of corrosion, pitting corrosion is of particular concern because the transition of corrosion pits to stress-corrosion cracks can lead to catastrophic failures. Traditional pitting corrosion analyses treat the pit shape as a semi-circle or ellipse and typically assume a growth pattern that maintains the original geometrical shape. However, when the underlying microstructure is incorporated into the model, pit growth is related to the grains surrounding the pit perimeter and the growth rate is proportional to crystallographic orientation. Since each grain has a potentially different orientation, pit growth happens at non-uniform rates leading to irregular geometries, i.e., non-circular and non-elliptical. These irregular pit geometries can further lead to higher stresses.
The Normal Spine

The radiologic study of choice for assessing most diseases of the spine is the MRI. In a lateral view of the normal cervical spine, you should look for four primary osseous contours. These are the anterior vertebral line, posterior vertebral line, spinolaminar line, and spinous process line. The areas of the spinal column you should look for are the subarachnoid space, the spinal cord, and the dura, arachnoid, and pia matter. The conus medullaris arises at the L1/L2 level of the spine and should be visible on imaging. Nerve roots in the thoracic and lumbar region of the spine exit below their respective vertebral bodies. On T1 MRI, the vertebral bodies should be of high intensity and the CSF of low intensity. On T2 MRI, the vertebral bodies should be of low intensity and the CSF of high intensity.
Exploring the limits of the Data-Model-Theory synergy: “Hot” MW transitions for rovibrational IR studies

Abstract In order to further improve the accuracy of rovibrational IR line lists generated from the “Best Theory + Reliable High-resolution Experiment” (BTRHE) strategy from 0.01 to 0.05 cm−1, or 300–1500 MHz, to ∼10 MHz, we explore the current limits of the Data-Model-Theory synergy by examining the accuracy and consistency of existing data, then propose that “hot” bands in microwave (MW) spectra is the solution we need for future enhancements. The Ames SO2 J = 0–20 rovibrational energy levels computed on the semi-empirically refined Ames-2 potential energy surface (PES) are fit to the Effective Hamiltonian (EH) model regularly used in the experimental infrared (IR) analysis for SO2 isotopologues. In the fitted EH(Ames) model, the rotational constants A/B/C and all 5 quartic centrifugal distortion constants display clear, systematic, and consistent patterns along the vibrational state energy or quanta. Such consistent patterns may facilitate the vibrational assignments for MW hot bands and extract more information from high temperature MW spectra. Some EH(Expt) analyses were carried out with the lowest order Coriolis Coupling term, C1. Their constants should not be directly compared with other EH(Expt) and EH(Ames) results. After excluding them, our δ = EH(Ames)- EH(Expt) analyses for 5 isotopologues (626, 636, 646, 628 and 828) indicates some loss of accuracy and consistency starting from vibrational states as low as 2ν2 or 1000 cm−1. Some EH parameters, e.g. δK, may have relative deviations as large as 50–100% and totally lose any recognizable patterns. This simply means that current EH(Expt) models do not have the system-wide consistency we need to further refine the EH(Ames) and Ames rovibrational IR line lists. A large part of such defects are probably inherited from the limited precision of experimental line positions, i.e. 1E-3 ∼ 1E-4 cm−1, or 3–30 MHz. This is confirmed in a series of truncation tests using the Ames data. Although the EH(Ames) consistency may help identify unreliable rovibrational EH(Expt) parameters, and make reliable predictions for minor isotopologues and unobserved vibrational bands, we believe only the highly accurate “hot” MW transitions can provide real enhancements for EH(Expt) accuracy and consistency. “Hot” MW spectra should play a more significant role in the future synergy of Data, Model, and Theory in the field of rovibrational IR studies.
Nightmares and Insomnia in the US National Guard: Mental and Physical Health Correlates.

Nightmares and insomnia are significant concerns that commonly co-occur with each other and with other health disorders. Limited research has examined the unique and shared aspects of insomnia and nightmares, and little is known about sleep in US National Guard personnel. This study sought to determine the prevalence and psychosocial correlates of nightmares with and without insomnia in US National Guard personnel. National Guard personnel (N = 841) completed an online survey and were classified as having nightmares only, insomnia only, both, or neither, using a minimum nightmare frequency of “less than once a week” and an Insomnia Severity Index cutoff of ≥ 15. Analyses examined differences in demographics, physical health, and psychosocial variables and in the prevalence of nightmares and insomnia in personnel with physical and mental health problems. In this sample, 32% reported nightmares only, 4% reported insomnia only, and 12% reported both. Those in the youngest age group (18–21) were more likely to have no nightmares or insomnia. Those with both nightmares and insomnia had more deployments. Nightmares and insomnia were associated with poorer physical and mental health and greater prevalence of comorbid physical and mental health conditions. Personnel with both insomnia and nightmares reported the greatest severity of comorbid conditions. US National Guard personnel with nightmares and/or insomnia reported worse mental and physical health impairment than those without these conditions. Personnel may benefit from screening for nightmares and insomnia and referrals for evidence-based treatment.
Introducing Python Programming into Undergraduate Biology

The rise of “big data” within the biological sciences has resulted in an urgent demand for coding skills in the next generation of scientists. To address this issue, several institutions and departments across the country have incorporated coding into their curricula. I describe a coding module developed and deployed in an undergraduate parasitology course, with the overarching goal of familiarizing students with the Python programming language. The module, which was completed over four days, aimed to help students become comfortable with the command line; execute summary statistics and Student's t-tests through coding; create simple bar and line graphs using code; and, parse, handle, and analyze imported data sets. There is currently no standard “best practice” for teaching coding skills to biology majors, but this module can serve as a template to ease students into coding, and can then be modified and built out for teaching more advanced skills.
Prevalence of heart disease in patients with mitochondrial abnormalities on skeletal muscle biopsy

OBJECTIVE Mitochondrial DNA mutations are associated with an increased risk of heart disease. Whether an increased prevalence of cardiovascular disease is present in patients presenting with mitochondrial abnormalities on skeletal muscle biopsy remains unknown. This study was designed to determine the prevalence of cardiac conduction disease and structural heart disease in patients presenting with mitochondrial abnormalities on skeletal muscle biopsy. METHODS This is a retrospective cohort study of 103 patients with mitochondrial abnormalities on skeletal muscle biopsy who were referred for evaluation of muscle weakness at a single tertiary care referral center from 2012 to 2018. Of these patients, 59 (57.3%) had an electrocardiogram available and were evaluated for the presence of conduction disease. An echocardiogram was available in 43 patients (42%) who were evaluated for the presence of structural heart disease. The prevalence of cardiac disease was compared to control cohort populations (Framingham and the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities, ARIC cohorts). RESULTS Mitochondrial abnormalities associated with cardiac conduction disease (defined as QRS duration ≥ 120 msec) were present in 8.9%, versus 2.0% (p < 0.001) in the Framingham population and 2.6% (p = 0.003) in the ARIC cohort. LV systolic dysfunction (LVEF ≤ 50%) was present in 11.6%, versus 3.6% (p < 0.01) in the Framingham and 3% (p < 0.01) in the ARIC populations. Left ventricular hypertrophy was present in 28.6%, versus 13.6% (p < 0.02) in the Framingham and 10.4% (p < 0.001) in the ARIC populations. INTERPRETATION Given the increased prevalence of cardiovascular disease, patients with mitochondrial abnormalities on skeletal muscle biopsy should undergo routine cardiac screening with physical exam, electrocardiography, and cardiac imaging.
The Differential Effects of Caregiving Intensity on Overnight Hospitalization.

This study aims to examine how caregiving for a spouse affects caregivers’ likelihood of overnight hospitalization. Using data from the Health and Retirement Study, we examine the odds of spousal c...