cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Controlled flooding search in a large network

In this paper, we consider the problem of searching for a node or an object (i.e., piece of data, file, etc.) in a large network. Applications of this problem include searching for a destination node in a mobile ad hoc network, querying for a piece of desired data in a wireless sensor network, and searching for a shared file in an unstructured peer-to-peer network. We consider the class of controlled flooding search strategies where query/search packets are broadcast and propagated in the network until a preset time-to-live (TTL) value carried in the packet expires. Every unsuccessful search attempt, signified by a timeout at the origin of the search, results in an increased TTL value (i.e., larger search area) and the same process is repeated until the object is found. The primary goal of this study is to find search strategies (i.e., sequences of TTL values) that will minimize the cost of such searches associated with packet transmissions. Assuming that the probability distribution of the object location is not known a priori, we derive search strategies that minimize the search cost in the worst-case, via a performance measure in the form of the competitive ratio between the average search cost of a strategy and that of an omniscient observer. This ratio is shown in prior work to be asymptotically (as the network size grows to infinity) lower bounded by 4 among all deterministic search strategies. In this paper, we show that by using randomized strategies (i.e., successive TTL values are chosen from certain probability distributions rather than deterministic values), this ratio is asymptotically lower bounded by e. We derive an optimal strategy that achieves this lower bound, and discuss its performance under other criteria. We further introduce a class of randomized strategies that are sub-optimal but potentially more useful in practice
Thermal conduction through diamond - silicon heterostructures

The interest to silicon - diamond structures was recently renewed motivated by industry's needs for composite substrates and better thermal management. In this work we investigated thermal conductivity and thermal boundary resistance (TBR) of ultrananocrystalline (UNCD) and microcrystalline diamond (MCD) films on silicon. The measurements were carried out using the transient plane source (TPS) technique. It was found that most of the silicon - synthetic heterostructures are rather resistive thermally with the TBR values of up to ∼ 10−6 m2K/W at room temperature. We established an importance of the trade-off between the structures characterized by the ultra-small diamond grain size with smooth silicon-diamond interface and those with larger grain size but rougher interface. It is shown that composite Si/Diamond wafers are promising at the elevated temperatures characteristic for operation of state-of-art electronic devices. The knowledge of TBR and heat conduction through silicon - diamond heterostructures is important for further development of composite substrates for electronic and optoelectronic industries.
Photography of Medical Specimens: Experiences From Teaching Cardiovascular Pathology

Preparation of high-quality 35-mm slides for the teaching of cardiovascular pathology involves little more time and expense than the preparation of poor-quality slides. Attention to proper focusing and exposure times, the use of diffusion screens to eliminate reflections, and the use of nonobtrusive black backgrounds are recommended. Specimens should be fixed before being photographed, and perfusion-fixation is recommended for cases in which tomographic dissections are performed. Hearts dissected by the inflow-outflow method may require pinning so that specific abnormalities may be demonstrated optimally. Lesions may be highlighted with probes and arrows or by comparison with a normal specimen. Use of composite slides is particularly recommended for visual conceptualization of mechanisms and pathogenesis of disease. These techniques are also applicable for the preparation of teaching slides in areas of pathology other than cardiovascular.
Giant magnetoresistive random-access memories based on current-in-plane devices

A giant magnetoresistive random-access memory (GMRAM) is a nonvolatile memory consisting of magnetic memory devices integrated with standard semiconductor electronics. In GMRAMs, magnetic multilayer devices, such as "pseudo-spin-valve" (PSV) and "spin-valve" (SV) devices, are made of layers of nanometer-thick materials, and are used to store information and to allow the data to be read. PSV and SV devices are giant magnetoresistive (GMR) current-in-plane (CIP) devices that are alternative memory devices to current-perpendicular-to-plane devices such as magnetic tunnel junction devices. In this paper, GMR CIP magnetic device operation and characteristics are described that have supported the demonstration of GMRAMs that have passed nonvolatility and complex write and read memory pattern tests at write and read cycle times down to approximately 50 ns. The GMRAM technology implementation described here is based on a 1R0T architecture in which a single GMR PSV device defines the bit cell and provides write and read selectivity so no transistors are needed per bit cell. A PSV bit is stored by setting the direction of magnetization in the storage layer. A PSV bit is read by determining the orientation of the sense layer with respect to the storage layer using the GMR effect that such magnetic multilayers produce when current flows in the magnetic device. The GMR effect is a magnetoresistive variable-resistance spin effect in which the resistance depends on the relative magnetization between storage and sense layers in the magnetic multilayer. In a magnetic multilayer that exhibits the GMR effect, resistance is maximized when the relative magnetization between the storage and sense layers is antiparallel; resistance is minimized when the relative magnetization between the storage and sense layers is parallel. The GMR effect produces a change in resistance that, when excited with a read current, induces a signal that distinguishes between a binary "1" and "0". Write and read characteristics of CIP PSV devices are described in terms of write switching, read switching, resistive, and magnetoresistive properties of individual PSV devices and statistical ensembles of PSV devices fabricated on bulk Si and CMOS underlayers. Based on experimental work and modeling, magnetization reversal has been inferred to be rotational, including irreversible rotations that correspond to switching, reversible rotations that anticipate switching, and reversible rotations that complete reversal from switching to saturation in the opposite direction. Magnetoresistive and magnetic switching properties along with nonvolatility, nondestructive readout, and potentially unlimited cyclability make PSV and SV devices potential options as nonvolatile memory elements for GMRAMs.
Comparison of linear and nonlinear responses of a compliant tower to random wave forces

Abstract A vertical member of a compliant offshore structure is modeled as a beam undergoing both bending and extension. The beam has a point mass and is subjected to a point axial load at the free end. The equations of motion for the axial and transverse displacements are nonlinear and coupled. A linear tension model is derived as a special case of the nonlinear coupled model with negligible axial displacement. The responses are obtained numerically for both models. A quarter of the International Ship and Offshore Structures Congress (ISSC) tension leg platform model is used as a numerical example. The free and forced responses obtained using the nonlinear coupled modeled are compared to those of the linear tension model.
DERIVATION OF TK- CLONES FROM REVERTANT TK+ MAMMALIAN CELLS

ABSTRACT In order to obtain a large collection of Chinese hamster cell clones defective in thymidine kinase (TK - ), BrdU r selection experiments have been performed on wild-type and revertant TK + cell lines. No clones ( -9 ) were obtained from the wild-type TK + cell line by single-step selection. In contrast, revertant TK + clones readily gave rise to stable TK - derivatives (1 - 2 × 10 -4 ). Both wild-type and revertant TK + clones spontaneously yielded 8-AG r colonies with the same frequency (1 - 5 × 10 -6 ), suggesting that the differences between wild-type and revertant cell lines specifically affected selection of the TK - phenotype. The increased frequency of TK - clones reflects perhaps the number (ploidy) or character of the autosomal TK loci in TK + revertants, or perhaps the mechanisms which regulate expression of the TK genes. Several mutagens, EMS, MNNG and UV, stimulated the TK + revertants9 frequency of TK - subclones only slightly ( - clones derived from one revertant are phenotypically different. The phenotypes displayed by these cell lines are stable and do not depend upon the continued presence of the selective agent.
Diagnosis and management of sudden cardiac death

Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is an enormous public health problem with at least 300 000 deaths per year in the USA alone. The current state-of-the-art for treatment of SCD has several significant limitations. Because ventricular fibrillation (VF) quickly becomes irreversible, successful treatment requires immediate care. Even in metropolitan areas with excellent emergency medical services, survival of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest is extremely low. Attempts to prevent SCD with antiarrhythmic agents have had little success (and in some cases increased mortality). The development of implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs), which detect and treat VF almost instantly, has revolutionised the treatment of SCD. However, to be effective these devices must be implanted before cardiac arrest. This is the source of one of the major dilemmas in current SCD management: How to identify SCD victims before their first episode. SCD is defined as unexpected, non-traumatic death within minutes of the onset of symptoms. Recordings obtained during spontaneous episodes of SCD (Holter, telemetry, etc) reveal that SCD results from ventricular arrhythmias in approximately 85% of cases (either primary VF or brief ventricular tachycardia (VT) degenerating to VF).1 Table 1 lists the main causes of SCD. View this table: Table 1 Causes of sudden cardiac death Rational strategies for prediction, prevention, and treatment of SCD require an understanding of the mechanisms responsible for the initiation and maintenance of ventricular fibrillation . Many risk stratification tests and medical treatment regimens, however, have been predicated on the physiology of ventricular tachycardia . While there is clear overlap between VT and VF physiology, their mechanisms are not identical. The lack of specificity in testing and lack of efficacy in treatment stem in part from their predication on VT rather than VF physiology. There are ample articles detailing clinical studies of prediction, prevention, and treatment of SCD. Rather than recreate an exhaustive review of such literature …
The movement of the non-cell-autonomous transcription factor, SHORT-ROOT relies on the endomembrane system.

Summary Plant cells are able to convey positional and developmental information between cells through the direct transfer of transcription factors. One well studied example of this is the SHORT-ROOT (SHR) protein, which moves from the stele into the neighboring ground tissue layer to specify endodermis. While it has been shown that SHR trafficking relies on plasmodesmata (PD), and interaction with the SHR INTERACTING EMBRYONIC LETHAL (SIEL) protein, little information is known about how SHR trafficking is controlled or how SIEL promotes the movement of SHR. Here we show that SHR can move from multiple different cell types in the root. Analysis of subcellular localization indicates that in the cytoplasm of root or leaf cells, SHR localizes to endosomes in a SIEL-dependent manner. Interference of early and late endosomes disrupts intercellular movement of SHR. Our findings reveal an essential role for the plant endomembrane, independent of secretion, in the intercellular trafficking of SHR.
Keeping current with climate change resources: it’s always the day after tomorrow!

Purpose – Keeping up with the abundance of new materials on climate change can be a challenge for selectors of library materials. There is a need for an updated list of recommended titles in the library literature. Design/methodology/approach – An exhaustive literature review was performed on climate change books published within the past four years. Findings – The following is an annotated bibliography of 22 recommended titles focused on climate change that were published within that timeframe. Originality/value – This will be helpful to librarians seeking to develop or update climate change collections.
Incidence of rapid increase of plasma sodium during liver transplantation and ITS effect on outcome

Rapid correction of hyponatremia can cause pontine myelinolysis and should be corrected by less than 10 mM/L within 24 hours. Hepatic cirrhosis is often associated with hyponatremia due to fluid retention and ascites. During liver transplantation, sodium may increase because of fluid administration and blood transfusions. Little is known regarding the frequency of rapid sodium increases during liver transplantation and whether such rapid corrections carry detrimental effects.
Stochastic program optimization

The optimization of short sequences of loop-free, fixed-point assembly code sequences is an important problem in high-performance computing. However, the competing constraints of transformation correctness and performance improvement often force even special purpose compilers to produce sub-optimal code. We show that by encoding these constraints as terms in a cost function, and using a Markov Chain Monte Carlo sampler to rapidly explore the space of all possible code sequences, we are able to generate aggressively optimized versions of a given target code sequence. Beginning from binaries compiled by 11vm --O0, we are able to produce provably correct code sequences that either match or outperform the code produced by qcc --O3, icc --O3, and in some cases expert handwritten assembly.
Alternate states of consciousness in health education.

(1976). Alternate States of Consciousness in Health Education. Health Education: Vol. 7, No. 4, pp. 39-40.
Molecular Signatures in Melanoma Progression

Since melanoma is a heterogenous disease, prognosis based on molecular markers may provide important insight into the biologic behavior of melanomas and may have even greater significance for predicting survival, recurrence risk, lymph node involvement, and distant metastasis when compared with current prognostic measures. This chapter describes the molecular basis and evolution of melanoma from radial growth phase to vertical growth phase and examines predictors of lymph node metastasis. Additionally, the molecular signatures from nevus to primary melanoma to metastatic melanoma will be described.
A computational model of flow and species transport in the mesangium

A variety of macromolecules accumulate in the glomerular mesangium in many different diseases, but the physics of the transport of these molecules within the mesangial matrix has not been extensively studied. We present a computational model of convection and diffusion within the porous mesangial matrix and apply this model to the specific instance of immunoglobulin A (IgA) transport in IgA nephropathy. We examine the influence of physiological factors including glomerular basement membrane (GBM) thickness and mesangial matrix density on the total accumulation of IgA. Our results suggest that IgA accumulation can be understood by relating convection and diffusion, thus demonstrating the importance of intrinsic glomerular factors.
Thermal infrared and Raman microspectroscopy of moganite-bearing rocks

We present the first thermal infrared reflectance spectral characterization of moganite and mixtures of moganite with microcrystalline quartz. We find that for relatively high (>50%) abundances of moganite, the absolute reflectance for samples is significantly reduced. Using microscopic-Raman (~1 μm/pixel) measurements, we estimate the moganite content for various samples. We then compare Raman-derived moganite abundances with microscopic infrared reflectance (25 μm/pixel) spectra to determine the effects of increasing moganite abundance on thermal infrared spectra. We find that moganite is broadly spectrally similar to quartz with major reflectance maxima located between ~1030 and 1280 cm −1 and ~400 and 600 cm −1 ; but there are characteristic differences in the peak shapes, peak center positions, and especially the relative peak reflectance magnitudes. For regions with high (>50%) moganite content, the relative magntitudes of the reflectance maxima at 1157 and 1095 cm −1 (R 1095 /R 1157 band ratio) can be used to estimate the moganite content. This work demonstrates the utility of thermal infrared microspectroscopy in isolating phases that are intimately mixed in a sample, and has applications in planetary science, where constituent phases of quartz-rich sedimentary rocks can be identified using remote or in situ thermal infrared spectroscopy.
Determination of tetrodotoxin in fish by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry

Objective To establish a method of multiple reaction monitoring technology( MRM) by high performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry( HPLC-MS / MS) to detect tetrodotoxin( TTX) content in fish. Methods Fish samples were ultrasonic extracted by 80% acidified methanol solution( containing 0. 1% acetic acid),and purified by dichloromethane,centrifuged by ultrafiltration,and analyzed after membrane filtration. TTX was separated on a HILIC column,with acetonitrile-0. 06% ammonium formate solution( V / V = 65 ∶ 35,p H = 3. 5) as the mobile phase for equal gradient elution. Multiple reaction monitoring( MRM) in positive ion mode was used,and qualitative confirmation was achieved from retention time and secondary mass characteristic ions of TTX. The matrix-matched external standard calibration curves were used for quantitative analysis. Results Tetrodotoxin and impurity could be well separated,and it showed good linearity in the range of 0. 10-2. 0 mg / kg( r = 0. 997). The detection limit of the method was 0. 012 mg / kg,the limit of quantification was 0. 041 mg / kg,the average recovery was 75. 7%-108. 1%,and the precision was 1. 4%-5. 1%. The method was applied to 20 fishes,while TTX was not detected. Conclusion The method was accurate,efficient and simple,and could be applied to the recognition and identification of factors of food poisoning.
Development of E commerce and the Building of Intranet and Extranet

Electronic commerce is the first productive point in the development of economy and a new economic mode to produce value.Website economy is an essential component of network economy.But network economy is not equal to website economy.To perform E commerce and gain the adavantage of leading the market,enterprises should not rely merely on building websites and transaction platforms,but on promoting the changes of traditional infrastructure and managerial operational modes with the help of the power of E commerce and the combination of reforms in modern systems of enterprises.When building websites,enterprises are supposed to set up perfect Intranet and Extranet in order to lay a solid foundation for a healthy development of E commerce.
Estrogen Effects on Vascular Inflammation Are Age Dependent Role of Estrogen Receptors

Objective—17β-Estradiol (E2) offers cardiovascular protection in young female animals and postmenopausal women. In contrast, randomized trials of menopausal hormones performed in older women have shown harm or no cardiovascular benefit. We hypothesize that E2 effects on vascular inflammation are age dependent. Approach and Results—Young (10 weeks) and aged (52 weeks) female C57BL/6 mice were used as source for primary cultures of bone marrow–derived macrophages (BMMs) and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). E2 pretreatment of cells derived from young mice attenuated C-reactive protein (CRP)–induced expression of inflammatory mediators. In contrast, E2 pretreatment of cells from aged mice did not alter (BMMs) or paradoxically exaggerated (VSMCs) inflammatory mediator response to CRP. Using E2 receptor (ER) knockout mice, we demonstrated that E2 regulates inflammatory response to CRP in BMMs via ERα and in VSMCs via ERβ. BMMs derived from aged (versus young) mice expressed significantly less ERα mRNA and ...
Financing Climate Resilience in Boston: Engaging and Incentivizing Developers and Private Property Owners

Boston is experiencing a real estate boom while also facing the challenge of adapting to climate effects in the form of rising sea levels, increasing precipitation, and the threat of catastrophic weather events as weather patterns shift. Developers and property owners currently lack incentive to make investments in climate resilience measures given evolving regulatory requirements, lack of a business case for making the investments, uncertainty as to the extent of climate effects, and a short time horizon for development and ownership. This paper explores how the City of Boston and related stakeholders can engage and incentivize developers and property owners to invest in climate resilience measures on privately-owned land and buildings. The paper outlines possible financial and non-financial incentives. For financial incentives, the paper explores 11 potential new revenue streams to finance these investments. The paper also discusses ways to leverage these revenue streams with outside capital through a green bond or environmental impact bond, as well as mechanisms for deploying financing to developers and property owners, such as a revolving loan fund.
Nitrite Ion Fluxes in Human Erythocytes.

Abstract Our recent studies suggest that nitrite ions serve as a storage pool of nitric oxide (NO•) bioactivity, with reduction of nitrite to NO• within red blood cells (RBC), thus potentially explaining endocrine effects of NO•. We have investigated nitrite uptake and decay in human RBC using recently described methodologies based on assaying after stabilization of nitrite to reaction with hemoglobin by treatment with ferricyanide and quantificating by reductive chemiluminescence. Uptake of nitrite added to whole blood is very rapid (sec) and independent of temperature (from 4°C to 37°C) and state of oxygenation of the cells, or treatment with carbon monoxide. We obtain intracellular values as high as 711 ± 45.44 nM/l with an extracellular value of 10,935.089 ± 897.370 nM/l. Decay of nitrite levels within the RBC is, however, strongly temperature and ligand dependent. At 37°C only 22% of the original maximal value remains at 30 minutes (half life: 5.24 min), while there is no apparent decay at 4°C. Carbon monoxide also prevents nitrite destruction. If the nitrite-containing RBC are suspended in nitrite-free plasma, decay of nitrite levels is faster (half life 2.1min) suggesting export of nitrite as well as reaction with hemoglobin. We have also observed whole blood and RBC artery-to-vein gradients of nitrite levels in human forearm circulation suggesting rapid loss during RBC transit of the microcirculation. These results suggest rapid fluxes of nitrite ions into and out of RBC, as well as controlled intra-erythrocytic metabolism, which could contribute to local, rapid modulation of blood flow by mechanisms involving nitrite activation to NO• by intra-erythrocytic hemoglobin.
Subjectivite Dans L'Evaluation Analytique De L'Expression Orale Libre

Pour evaluer les resultats d'epreuves d'expression orale libre, on peut proceder selon deux methodes differentes : la methode globale impressioniste ou la methode analytique. La methode globale est le plus souvent utilisee pour des raisons d'ordre pratique. En revanche, la methode analytique, qui est fondee sur une analyse detaillee des performances, nous permet non seulement d'avoir des donnees plus concretes concernant la competence de nos etudiants, mais aussi de definir plus precisement la zone de la subjectivite des correcteurs. Cette subjectivite s'avere etre toujours un des problemes pri-mordiaux dans l'evaluation de l'expression linguistique. Pour que les avantages de la methode analytique soient pleinement realises, il faut que les performances orales soient trans-crites et que cette transcription soit faite d'apres un systeme nettement defini, ou les problemes de l'interpretation des performances, de la reconstruction et de l'identification des fautes soient formellement explicites. Pour satisfaire a ces exigences, il vaut mieux avoir recours a un algorithme de correction. Cet algorithme nous permet en meme temps de mieux preciser les points ou la subjectivite joue un role dans l'ap-preciation des correcteurs. L'auteur se propose de presenter un algorithme de correction qui a ete elabore a l'Universite Catholique de Nimegue (Hollande) et d'analyser de quelle facon 5 correcteurs ont utilise cet algorithme.
Assessing the Needs of Your Facility

While infant abduction has decreased over the last 20 years, the event continues to occur and has a tremendous impact on families and hospital staff. Infant abduction is defined as the kidnapping of an infant between birth and six months of age by a non-family member. By becoming more familiar with the profile of the person most likely to abduct an infant and examining the specific needs of the maternal-newborn unit and the legal obligations of the facility, nurses are in a better position to design security protocols and contribute to the selection process when the purchase of a security system is being considered.
Canine cranial cruciate ligament deficient stifle biomechanics associated with extra-articular stabilization predicted using a computer model.

Objective To evaluate lateral fabellotibial suture (LFTS) and TightRope CCL (TR) extra-articular stabilization biomechanics in the cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL)-deficient canine stifle joint during the stance phase of gait. Study design Computer simulations. Animals Healthy 33-kg Golden Retriever. Methods LFTS and TR were implemented in a previously developed 3-D quasi-static rigid body CrCL-deficient canine pelvic limb computer model simulating the stance phase of gait. Ligament loads, relative tibial translation, and relative tibial rotation were determined and compared across the CrCL-intact, CrCL-deficient, and extra-articular stabilized stifle joints. Results Compared to the CrCL-intact stifle, peak caudal cruciate and lateral collateral ligament (LCL) loads were increased in the LFTS-managed stifle, peak caudal cruciate and LCL loads were decreased in the TR-managed stifle, and peak medial collateral and patellar ligament (PL) loads were similar for both techniques. Compared to the CrCL-deficient stifle, peak caudal cruciate, lateral collateral, and medial collateral ligament loads decreased, and peak PL load was similar in the LFTS- and TR-managed stifle joints. Peak relative tibial translation decreased, and peak relative tibial rotation changed from internal rotation to external rotation in the LFTS- and TR-managed stifle joints compared to the CrCL-deficient stifle. Conclusion Our computer model predicted controlled tibial translation, decreased cruciate and collateral ligament loads, and a change in femorotibial rotation from internal to external with LFTS and TR stifle management as compared to the CrCL-deficient stifle. This study demonstrates how computer modeling can be used to evaluate biomechanics of stifle stabilization surgical techniques.
The Istanbul Convention, Domestic Violence and Human Rights

The Convention on Preventing and Combating Violence against Women and Domestic Violence (also known as the Istanbul Convention) was adopted by the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe on 7 April 2011. The Convention entered into force on 1 August 2014 and has currently been ratified by 22 states. This Convention constitutes a crucial development as regards the movement to combat gender-based violence, as it sets new legally binding standards in this area. This book provides a detailed analysis of the Convention and its potential to make an impact in relation to the specific issue of domestic violence. The book places the Istanbul Convention in context with regard to developments relating to domestic violence as a human rights issue. The background to the adoption of the Convention is examined, and the text of this instrument is analysed in detail. Comparative analysis is engaged in with reference to the duties that have been placed on states by other bodies such as the UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women and the European Court of Human Rights. Comparisons are also drawn with the Inter-American Convention on the Prevention, Punishment, and Eradication of Violence against Women and with the relevant provisions of the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights on the Rights of Women in Africa. An in-depth examination of the advantages of the adoption of the Istanbul Convention by the Council of Europe is provided along with a detailed analysis of the challenges faced by the Convention. The book concludes with a number of brief reflections in relation to the question of whether the adoption of a UN convention on violence against women may be a possible development, and the potential such an instrument holds, in the context of domestic violence.
Predicting nationwide road fatalities in the US: a neural network approach

Road crashes are among the top five leading causes of deaths in the US although the national trend in fatal crashes has reached to the lowest level since 1949. Therefore, this paper introduces a non-parametric prediction models, artificial neural network (ANN), to assist policy-makers in minimising fatal crashes across the United States. Seven input variables from four safety performance input domains while fatal crash was utilised as the single output variable for the scope of the research. ANN was utilised and the best neural network model was developed out of 1,000 networks. The proposed neural network model predicted data with 84% coefficient of determination. In addition, developed ANN model was benchmarked with a multiple linear regression model and outperformed in all performance metrics including r, R-square and the standard error of estimate.
Life on the Left: Not Bad After All

Left-handers have survived as a minority for thousands of years. This suggests a left-hander survival advantage that compensates for any potential left-hander deficits. Left- and right-handers have similar personalities, similar verbal and spatial abilities and do not differ much when making career choices although left-handed males earn higher wages than their right-handed counterparts. The advantage that left-handed athletes appear to have in certain sports is best explained by the numbers imbalance between left- and right-handers in a sport rather than by inherent left-hander superiority based on specialized brain mechanisms. Left-handers have many opportunities to practice and compete against right-handers, particularly in interactive sports like boxing, fencing, and tennis. They can develop tactical skills that give them an advantage over their right-handed opponents. Competition against left-handers is more infrequent for right-handers so they do not have the same opportunities to develop these strategic benefits. Right-handers who shift to left-handed sports performance can achieve high levels of proficiency while remaining right-handed for everyday activities. This suggests a left side rather than a left-hander advantage in sports performance.
Fabrication of polymeric core-shell nanostructures

Abstract This chapter gives an historical perspectives on nanomedicine: from the first generation nanoparticles—suitable for liver targeting—to the fourth generation dubbed theranostic (multifunctional nanoscale devices which allow for a combination of a diagnostic agent with a therapeutic agent, and a reporter of therapeutic efficacy in the same nanodevice package). The rationale for the development of polymeric core-shell (corona) nanostrurcture is articulated. Materials—natural and synthetic polymers—for the fabrication of polymeric core-shell nanostructures are discussed, together with methods of fabrication and examples. Emphasis was placed on in-situ dispersion polymerization at ambient temperature extensively investigated in our laboratory. Applications of quality by design approach in the fabrication of core-shell nanostructures are presented: by carefully selecting which combinations of the formulation and process variables to evaluate, the properties of core-shell nanostructures can be optimized using statistical design of experiments, followed by computer numerical and graphical optimizations.
Self-hiding behavior in Android apps: detection and characterization

Applications (apps) that conceal their activities are fundamentally deceptive; app marketplaces and end-users should treat such apps as suspicious. However, due to its nature and intent, activity concealing is not disclosed up-front, which puts users at risk. In this paper, we focus on characterization and detection of such techniques, e.g., hiding the app or removing traces, which we call "self hiding behavior" (SHB). SHB has not been studied per se - rather it has been reported on only as a byproduct of malware investigations. We address this gap via a study and suite of static analyses targeted at SH in Android apps. Specifically, we present (1) a detailed characterization of SHB, (2) a suite of static analyses to detect such behavior, and (3) a set of detectors that employ SHB to distinguish between benign and malicious apps. We show that SHB ranges from hiding the app's presence or activity to covering an app's traces, e.g., by blocking phone calls/text messages or removing calls and messages from logs. Using our static analysis tools on a large dataset of 9,452 Android apps (benign as well as malicious) we expose the frequency of 12 such SH behaviors. Our approach is effective: it has revealed that malicious apps employ 1.5 SHBs per app on average. Surprisingly, SH behavior is also employed by legitimate ("benign") apps, which can affect users negatively in multiple ways. When using our approach for separating malicious from benign apps, our approach has high precision and recall (combined F-measure = 87.19%). Our approach is also efficient, with analysis typically taking just 37 seconds per app. We believe that our findings and analysis tool are beneficial to both app marketplaces and end-users.
System Theoretic Process Analysis (STPA) of the Mars oxygen ISRU experiment (MOXIE)

Throughout the history of space exploration, astronauts have been limited by the resources they need to bring with them. Now, technologies for In-situ Resource Utilization (ISRU), the art of “living off the land” in space, are paving the way for a sustainable human presence in space. Carbon dioxide is an example of an in-situ resource that comprises a majority of the Martian atmosphere and can be used as a source of oxygen for propellant and life support systems. The Mars Oxygen ISRU Experiment (MOXIE) will unlock this resource using a process called solid oxide electrolysis. As an experimental payload aboard NASA's upcoming Mars 2020 rover, MOXIE is a complex system nested inside in a larger system. For the success of the mission, it is important to understand not only component failure modes but also organizational and component interactions. System Theoretic Process Analysis (STPA) is a hazard analysis technique based on systems theory to identify scenarios leading to accidents and losses, and to find solutions and ways to prevent them. Where traditional hazard analysis technique are based on reliability theory, those methods often miss component-interaction effects in complex systems that could lead to hazards and losses. This paper applies STPA to the MOXIE system with an emphasis on the solid oxide electrolysis (SOXE) subsystem. In this analysis, we examined some hazardous control actions and propose controls for these hazards. Finally, we propose changes to these safety control loops, by adding missing feedback, actuators, and controls. Results of early analysis lead to the implementation of a critical flow sensor. Recommendations from later analysis include time based state transition checks, a soft fault recovery mode, and voltage control that actively tracks the CO-C Nernst potential. This paper is a framework for an expanded safety analysis of MOXIE. Further analysis will expand our knowledge of the system and enable the MOXIE team to identify and avoid additional hazards. With a focus on system safety, we will guide MOXIE on to achieve its greatest goal: to expand the reach of human exploration across the solar system.
An approach to solving combinatorial optimization problems using a population of reinforcement learning agents

This paper presents an approach that uses reinforcement learning (RL) algorithms to solve combinatorial optimization problems. In particular, the approach combines both local and global search characteristics: local information as encoded by typical RL schemes and global information as contained in a population of search agents. The effectiveness of the approach is demonstrated on both the Asymmetric Traveling Salesman (ATSP) and the Quadratic Assignment Problem (QAP). These results are competitive with other well-known search techniques and suggest that the presented RL-agent approach can be used as a basis for global optimization techniques.
Amino Acid and Peptide Absorption and Transport across the Intestine

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses various concepts of mechanisms of absorption of amino acids and peptides and their subsequent transport through the intestinal wall. There have been advances in the knowledge of amino acid needs of animals and this seems notably true for ruminants. Following a report in 1949 that stated that essential amino acids were synthesized in the rumen, the major research focus was on nitrogen supply in the diet, especially nonprotein nitrogen (NPN) with minimal regard for protein quality (amino acid supply). In recent years, much effort has been put into quantifying protein escaping ruminal degradation and also into finding ways to manipulate the protein reaching the small intestine. The aim of such research has been to unravel the physiological phenomena associated with amino acid absorption from the small intestine. The understanding of peptide and amino acid absorption will be materially enhanced with the application of new technologies.
Oxygen and neon abundances in planetary nebulae

Les abondances en oxygene et neon de 171 nebuleuses planetaires, de la Galaxie, des Nuages de Magellan et de M 31, sont determinees
Avoiding Treatment Failures in PTSD

Tom is a 27-year-old married but separated Caucasian male U.S. Army veteran who presented for treatment because he is tired all the time and wants help with his sleep. He feels sleepy during the day, often nodding during breaks at work, though it often takes him several hours to fall asleep at night. He stated that when he does sleep he has nightmares about his service in Iraq. He went overseas with the initial invasion force and participated in combat and house-to-house raids. He also provided aid to injured civilians on several occasions. He keeps to himself at work and in his daily life and as a result has minimal social support. He thinks others will judge him negatively because of his war experiences, and he also gets irritated by the questions civilians tend to ask (e.g., “Did you kill anyone?”). He stated that he would never use “drugs” but disclosed drinking heavily two or three nights per week in order to get thoughts about Iraq out of his head. He smokes marijuana occasionally, usually to stop unwanted thoughts or to calm himself when he is in social situations.
Narrative Inquiry and New Materialism: Stories as (Not Necessarily Benign) Agents:

Agential realism—the idea that it makes sense to view the world as being composed of various forms of protean nonhuman agency—has been a topic of discussion for many social science scholars in rece...
Synthesis and Evaluation of Protein-Phenylboronic Acid Conjugates as Lectin Mimetics

Glycan-binding molecules, such as lectins, are very important tools for characterizing, imaging, or targeting glycans and are often involved in either physiological or pathological processes. However, their availability is far less compared to the diversity of native glycans. Therefore, development of lectin mimetics with desired specificity and affinity is in high demand. Boronic acid reacts with 1,2- and 1,3-diols of saccharides in aqueous media through reversible boronate ester formation and are regarded as synthetic lectin mimetics. In this study, bovine serum albumin (BSA)-phenylboronic acid (PBA) conjugates were synthesized in a density-controlled manner by targeting both aspartic and glutamic acids to afford lectin mimetics with multivalent PBA, as multivalency is a key factor for glycan recognition in both specificity and affinity. The resultant BSA-PBA conjugates were characterized by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry analysis. Their macrophage cell surface glycan-binding capacity was characterized by a competitive lectin-binding assay examined by flow cytometry, and 3-(4,5-di-methylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay showed biocompatibility. These novel lectin mimetics will find a broad range of applications as they can be wittingly modified, altering binding specificity and capacity.
Association between diabetes mellitus and mortality among patients with tuberculosis in California, 2010-2014.

Setting Studies of US populations have produced conflicting findings about the impact of diabetes mellitus (DM) on tuberculosis (TB) treatment outcomes. Objective To investigate the association between DM and all-cause mortality among patients on anti-tuberculosis treatment in California, USA. Design Using TB surveillance data, we conducted a retrospective analysis of California patients with culture-confirmed TB who started anti-tuberculosis treatment during 2010-2014. We used Cox proportional hazards models to estimate the association of DM with all-cause mortality and conducted a sensitivity analysis to estimate the attenuating effect of unmeasured confounding by body mass index. Results Among 8461 patients with TB, 2124 (25.1%) had DM and 713 (8.4%) died during anti-tuberculosis treatment. A higher proportion of TB-DM patients died (13.1% vs. 6.8% TB-no DM). After adjusting for confounders, DM was associated with mortality (adjusted hazards ratio [aHR] 1.35, 95%CI 1.15-1.57). There was effect modification by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) status, with HIV-positive patients having an aHR of 5.33 (95%CI 1.76-16.12). Conclusion TB patients with DM had a greater hazard of death during anti-tuberculosis treatment than those without DM. Further investigation into the impact of HIV on the relation of DM to death is necessary.
Investigating the design and process parameters of folded perforated sheet metal

Origami-based sheet metal (OSM) bending is an extension of rigid origami technique, where the final 3D structure is created from a single 2D flat pattern by bending. The key aspect of OSM is material discontinuity (MD), which helps achieve a unique dieless bending process. MD is a feature along bend line of blank sheet and it can be fabricated using laser or water jet cutting. Even though a number of successful implementations of OSM bending have been found, these cases are limited only to product development and industrial application. The mechanics of OSM bending with respect to parameters that define MD, blank sheet, as well as the bending process have not been studied. Thus, this study identifies parameters and investigates the effect of identified parameters associated with OSM bending. Parameters studied in this work include design parameters and process parameters. Design parameters are kerf-to-thickness (k/t) ratio, web-to-width (w/b) ratio, and thickness of sheet (t). These are associated with MD design. The process parameters are related to OSM bending process, and they include punch placement (t+g), offset distance (s), and punch radius (RP). Finite element analysis (FEA) is performed to investigate the effect of these parameters on the OSM bending process. The simulated OSM bending cases resulted in successful bending without using a die. The general recommendation is provided for selecting parameters of OSM bending based on results. In addition, the shape of MD is an important factor when designing the OSM bending process.
Lumboperitoneal and Ventriculoperitoneal Shunting for Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension Demonstrate Comparable Failure and Complication Rates.

Background Idiopathic intracranial hypertension results in increased intracranial pressure leading to headache and visual loss. This disease frequently requires surgical intervention through lumboperitoneal (LP) or ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunting. Objective To compare postoperative outcomes between LP and VP shunts, including failure and complication rates. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted using a national administrative database (MarketScan) to identify idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) patients who underwent LP or VP shunting from 2007 to 2014. Multivariate logistic and Cox regressions were performed to compare rates of shunt failure and time to shunt failure between LP and VP shunts while controlling for demographics and comorbidities. Results The analytic cohort included 1082 IIH patients, 347 of whom underwent LP shunt placement at index hospitalization and 735 of whom underwent VP shunt placement. Rates of shunt failure were similar among patients with LP and VP shunt (34.6% vs 31.7%; P = .382). Among patients who experienced shunt failure, the mean number of shunt failures was 2.1 ± 1.6 and was similar between LP and VP cohorts. Ninety-day readmission rates, complication rates, and costs did not differ significantly between LP and VP shunts. Patients who experienced more than two shunt failures tended to have an earlier time to first shunt failure (hazard ratio 1.41; 95% confidence interval 1.08-1.85; P = .013). Conclusion These findings suggest that LP and VP shunts may have comparable rates of shunt failure and complication. Regardless of shunt type, earlier time to first shunt failure may be associated with multiple shunt failures.
The Political Effects of Policy Drift: Policy Stalemate and American Political Development

In recent years, scholars have made major progress in understanding the dynamics of “policy drift”—the transformation of a policy's outcomes due to the failure to update its rules or structures to reflect changing circumstances. Drift is a ubiquitous mode of policy change in America's gridlock-prone polity, and its causes are now well understood. Yet surprisingly little attention has been paid to the political consequences of drift—to the ways in which drift, like the adoption of new policies, may generate its own feedback effects. In this article, we seek to fill this gap. We first outline a set of theoretical expectations about how drift should affect downstream politics. We then examine these dynamics in the context of four policy domains: labor law, health care, welfare, and disability insurance. In each, drift is revealed to be both mobilizing and constraining: While it increases demands for policy innovation, group adaptation, and new group formation, it also delimits the range of possible paths forward. These reactions to drift, in turn, generate new problems, cleavages, and interest alignments that alter subsequent political trajectories. Whether formal policy revision or further stalemate results, these processes reveal key mechanisms through which American politics and policy develop.