cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Congruential sieves on reconfigurable computer

Congruential sieves have been constructed as software programs or as physical devices for nearly a century. Factor stencils were used by D.N. Lehmer in his table of prime numbers constructed early in the 20th century, and a sequence of special purpose electrical, electro-mechanical, and electronic devices were built by D.H. Lehmer through the middle part of the century. More recently, special purpose sieves using FPGAs (field programmable gate arrays) have been built and programs on more generic reconfigurable computing machines have been written to implement sieves. We describe here a new implementation of a sieve on the Star Bridge Systems HC 36m reconfigurable computer.
Pollination efficiencies of three bee (Hymenoptera: Apoidea) species visiting rabbiteye blueberry.

Abstract Inadequate bee pollination limits rabbiteye blueberry,Vaccinium ashei Reade, production in the some areas of thesoutheastern United States. Honey bees, Apis mellifera L.,are currently the only manageable pollinators available for pollinatingV. ashei. However, a new adaptable pollinator for rabbiteyeblueberry, Osmia ribifloris Cockerell, was successfullyreared and flown in captivity. The bee nested successfully in woodenshelters and conferred superior fruit set to 2-yr-old potted, rabbiteyeblueberry bushes. Pollination efficiency or the percentage of blueberryflowers to set fruit after being visited once by a female O.ribifloris was comparable to that of the female blueberry beeHabropoda laboriosa (F.) and worker honey bees.Interestingly, honey bees once thought to be inefficient pollinators ofrabbiteye blueberry were found to be very efficient, especially for‘Climax’ and ‘Premier’ flowers.
The Impact of Functionalization on the Stability, Work Function, and Photoluminescence of Reduced Graphene Oxide

Reduced graphene oxide (rGO) is a promising material for a variety of thin-film optoelectronic applications. Two main barriers to its widespread use are the lack of (1) fabrication protocols leading to tailored functionalization of the graphene sheet with oxygen-containing chemical groups, and (2) understanding of the impact of such functional groups on the stability and on the optical and electronic properties of rGO. We carry out classical molecular dynamics and density functional theory calculations on a large set of realistic rGO structures to decompose the effects of different functional groups on the stability, work function, and photoluminescence. Our calculations indicate the metastable nature of carbonyl-rich rGO and its favorable transformation to hydroxyl-rich rGO at room temperature via carbonyl-to-hydroxyl conversion reactions near carbon vacancies and holes. We demonstrate a significant tunability in the work function of rGO up to 2.5 eV by altering the composition of oxygen-containing funct...
Code ownership and software quality: a replication study

In a traditional sense, ownership determines rights and duties in regard to an object, for example a property. The owner of source code usually refers to the person that invented the code. However, larger code artifacts, such as files, are usually composed by multiple engineers contributing to the entity over time through a series of changes. Frequently, the person with the highest contribution, e.g. the most number of code changes, is defined as the code owner and takes responsibility for it. Thus, code ownership relates to the knowledge engineers have about code. Lacking responsibility and knowledge about code can reduce code quality. In an earlier study, Bird et al. [1] showed that Windows binaries that lacked clear code ownership were more likely to be defect prone. However recommendations for large artifacts such as binaries are usually not actionable. E.g. changing the concept of binaries and refactoring them to ensure strong ownership would violate system architecture principles. A recent replication study by Foucault et al. [2] on open source software replicate the original results and lead to doubts about the general concept of ownership impacting code quality. In this paper, we replicated and extended the previous two ownership studies [1, 2] and reflect on their findings. Further, we define several new ownership metrics to investigate the dependency between ownership and code quality on file and directory level for 4 major Microsoft products. The results confirm the original findings by Bird et al. [1] that code ownership correlates with code quality. Using new and refined code ownership metrics we were able to classify source files that contained at least one bug with a median precision of 0.74 and a median recall of 0.38. On directory level, we achieve a precision of 0.76 and a recall of 0.60.
HER-2/neu status is a determinant of mammary aromatase activity in vivo: evidence for a cyclooxygenase-2-dependent mechanism.

Cytochrome P450 aromatase (aromatase), a product of the CYP19 gene, catalyzes the synthesis of estrogens from androgens. Given the significance of estrogen synthesis in hormone-dependent breast carcinogenesis, it is important to elucidate the mechanisms that regulate CYP19 expression. The main objective of this study was to define the interrelationship between HER-2/neu, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and aromatase in mammary tissue. Mammary aromatase activity and prostaglandin E 2 (PGE 2 ) levels were increased in mice with mammary-targeted expression of a COX-2 transgene. In vitro , overexpressing COX-2 caused both increased PGE 2 production and aromatase activity, effects that were suppressed by celecoxib, a selective COX-2 inhibitor. Previously, we found that overexpression of HER-2/neu was associated with increased levels of COX-2 in human breast cancers. Here, we show that overexpression of HER-2/neu is also associated with increased aromatase activity. These results suggested the possibility that COX-2 was the functional intermediate linking HER-2/neu and aromatase. Consistent with this idea, COX-2 deficiency led to a gene dose-dependent reduction in mammary aromatase activity in a HER-2/neu transgenic mouse model. Complementary in vitro studies showed that HER-2/neu–mediated induction of PGE 2 synthesis and aromatase activity were suppressed by inhibiting COX-2. Collectively, our data indicate that COX-2 is the functional intermediate linking HER-2/neu and aromatase and suggest that inhibitors of PGE 2 synthesis will suppress estrogen biosynthesis in breast tissue. (Cancer Res 2006; 66(10): 5504-11)
CD8 Cell Noncytotoxic Antiviral Activity in Human Immunodeficiency Virus- Infected and -Uninfected Children

CD8 cells from human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected adults and children can show cytotoxic as well as noncytotoxic activity against viral replication. The noncytotoxic anti-HIV response, measured by suppression of acute viral infection of CD4 cells, has also been observed in uninfected adults who have a history of exposure to HIV. This CD8 cell antiviral activity was found to be detectable as well in approximately 50% of uninfected children born of infected mothers. The findings could reflect a protective response of the children to HIV after being exposed to the virus.
The fractional a.c. Josephson effect in a semiconductor-superconductor nanowire as a signature of Majorana particles

The fractional alternating-current Josephson effect produces a series of steps in the current–voltage characteristics of a superconducting junction driven at radiofrequencies. This unusual phenomenon is now observed in a semiconductor–superconductor nanowire. What is more, a doubling in step size when a strong magnetic field is applied could be a possible signature of Majorana fermions, particles that are their own antiparticle.
Discovering Hidden Groups in Communication Networks

We describe models and efficient algorithms for detecting groups (communities) functioning in communication networks which attempt to hide their functionality – hidden groups. Our results reveal the properties of the background network activity that make detection of the hidden group easy, as well as those that make it difficult.
The homeobox gene DLX4 regulates erythro-megakaryocytic differentiation by stimulating IL-1β and NF-κB signaling

Megakaryocyte and erythroid development are tightly controlled by a repertoire of cytokines, but it is not clear how cytokine-activated signaling pathways are controlled during development of these two lineages. Here, we identify that expression of DLX4, a transcription factor encoded by a homeobox gene, increases during megakaryopoiesis but decreases during erythropoiesis. Enforced expression of DLX4 in CD34(+) stem and progenitor cells and in bipotent K562 cells induced lineage markers and morphologic features of megakaryocytes and repressed erythroid marker expression and hemoglobin levels. Converse results were obtained when DLX4 was knocked down. Gene Ontology and Gene Set Enrichment Analyses of genome-wide changes in gene expression revealed that DLX4 induces a megakaryocytic transcriptional program and inhibits an erythroid transcriptional program. DLX4 also induced gene signatures that are associated with nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) signaling. The ability of DLX4 to promote megakaryocyte development at the expense of erythroid generation was diminished by blocking NF-κB activity or by repressing IL1B, a transcriptional target of DLX4. Collectively, our findings indicate that DLX4 exerts opposing effects on the megakaryocytic and erythroid lineages in part by inducing IL-1β and NF-κB signaling.
Importance of the seed bank for population viability and population monitoring in a threatened wetland herb

Although demographic models have become increasingly important tools in plant conservation, few models have considered the implications of seed banks for population persistence. Based on a 15-year study of the threatened herb, Helenium virginicum ,w e created a stage-class transition matrix to model the population dynamics of the plant. Our goal was to determine the role of the seed bank in population persistence and in the design of monitoring programs for the plant. Using data from marked plants, a long-term study of seed viability, and a seed bank census, we created a deterministic model and three stochastic models. The stochastic models were a model in which yearly correlations among parameters were retained, a model in which parameters were uncorrelated, and a model in which parameters were derived from log-normal distribution. We also constructed a fourth model in which we assumed a minimum seed lifetime consistent with the seed viability data. Both elasticity and perturbation analysis suggested that seed survival within the seed bank had by far the largest effects on the population growth rate (k), with 47–64% of the change in k being controlled by seed survival. Correlations among life history parameters had little effect on k in the original models, but substantially reduced k (from 0.97 to 0.86) when seed survival was limited. Given the importance of the seed bank and the high yearly variability in adult plant density, we used simulations to compare power to detect declines with seed bank samples versus censuses of adult plants. The power of adult plant censuses was extremely low (13–22%). The power of seed bank censuses was substantially higher (48–59%), but was limited by large pulses of recruitment to the seed bank in good years. Power was only moderately reduced when seeds were sampled every two or four years instead of yearly (from 59% to 48%). Together, our results suggest that seed survival is crucial to persistence of Helenium populations and that future empirical studies should focus on understanding the factors that affect seed survival. In addition, managers should consider seed bank censuses rather than above-ground plants when designing monitoring programs for plants in variable environments where above-ground plants vary greatly from year to year. � 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
A Simple Method for More Efficient Blepharoplasty Surgery

Blepharoplasty is usually performed first on the upper lids and then on the lower lids. By operating on one entire side before moving onto the next side can greatly enhance efficiency in the OR.
Fenestrate theoretical morphology: geometric constraints on lophophore shape and arrangement in extinct Bryozoa

Abstract A geometric analysis of fenestrate bryozoan lophophore shape and arrangement is conducted by creating a theoretical morphospace of apertural positioning within the colonial meshwork. Working from the assumption that fenestrate bryozoans needed to form a continuous filtering surface with contact between adjacent lophophores, we show that within the morphospace three regions exist for optimum close-packing of lophophores with circular projections; all other close-packing configurations in the morphospace require the existence of noncircular lophophores. Examination of the actual distribution of 251 fenestrate colonies within the morphospace reveals that the morphospace regions occupied by fenestellids and polyporids are displaced and have little overlap, but that they are very similar in size and shape, and that the colonies scale similarly. With increasing size, fenestrate meshworks expand laterally faster than the branches widen and the proximodistal spacing of the apertures increases, apparently...
Various Properties of Sputtered TaxAl1-x Films

Films of TaxAl1-x have been prepared by diode sputtering from a target consisting of an AI mask placed on the face of a Ta target. The Ta target was 8″ in diameter while the AI mask was 0.125″ thick and machined with a grid-like shape. Films were deposited for a range of pressure, at a power of 300 watts, onto oxidized 100 mm diameter Si substrates that were placed on a planetary table beneath the target. The Al/Ta area ratio of the composite target was determined on the basis of the relative sputtering rates for these metals with the intent of producing a film composition with x = 0.5. The film composition was found to vary with argon pressure, going from 24 at.% AI at 4 mtorr to 72 at.% AI at 30 mtorr. This finding was quite unexpected. This result made it possible to deposit a wide range of film compositions from one composite target. The electrical resistivity has a broad maximum of ≈ 240 micro-ohm/cm between x = 0.3 and 0.6. These results compliment and extend the earlier observations by Steidel [1] The as-deposited stress of the films varied from −400 to +150 MPa as x was decreased from 0.76 to 0.28. The temperature dependence of the film stress is hysteretic on the first cycle to 475 C. After the first cycle the films are driven more into tension by as much as 500 Mpa. The oxidation characteristics of one composition Ta0.66AI0.34 were characterized in some detail using a combination of electrical resistance, AES and XPS measurements. The results show that such films oxidize at temperatures in the 300 to 600C range via a diffusion-controlled process with an activation energy of 0.98 eV. Such films are substantially more oxidation-resistant than either α-or β-Mantalum.
COMMENT ON "RFT STABILITY OR FAILURE TO AROUSE?"

Vaught and Bremer ( 1969) reported that vibratory massage applied just prior to performance on the rod-and-frame test (RFT) had no effect on accuracy. They apparently felt that there was a discrepancy between their findings and those of Oltman ( 1964, 1965 ), who found slight bur significant improvements in RFT scores under very loud (100 db) broad-band noise conditions. However, one may question whether Vaught and Bremer were testing the same hypothesis as the latter studies. Evidence exists in the literature to support the assumption that very loud noise produces arousal, e.g., as shown by elevated metabolic rates, increased muscle tension, elevated hearc and breathing rates (Harmon, 1933; Freeman, 1939; Steele & Koons, 1968), and increased speed of motor response (Weinstein & MacKenzie, 1966). On the other hand, a massage vibrator, which is usually sold with claims that it will provide soothing relaxation, seems a less plausible arousing stimulus, especially without independent evidence of its effectiveness. Even if one assumed that their type of vibratory massage did arouse, Vaught and Bremer's method of applying it before, rather rhan dwing, each RFT trial does nor seem to be optimal for producing possible effects. In contrast, the noise used in the Oltman studies was delivered during adjustment of the rod, -. so that its presumed arousing effect would be certain to be operating at the time
Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Michael Sandel and the Politics of Transparency

This essay aims to refute the influential argument, made famous by Jean Starobinski and recently restated by Michael Sandel, that Rousseau's political thought aims at transparency, in which citizens understand each other immediately, unambiguously and without distortion. Whatever transparency Rousseau fosters in the political sphere may safely be characterized as limited and more boldly as a lie. Rousseau favors the appearance of transparency because it bolsters patriotism but does not favor real transparency because it is dangerous to seek among equals and impossible to realize among unequals. Though Sandel may be right to criticize Rousseau's "unitary" republicanism, his own "pluralistic" republicanism fails even to take into account Rousseau's argument that proponents of openness conflate the conditions of philosophy and community and propose to benefit the few at the expense of the many.
Outcomes on Continuous Flow Left Ventricular Assist Devices: A Single Institutional 9-Year Experience

Background Continuous-flow left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) have become the standard of care for patients with advanced heart failure. The goal of this study was to review our 9-year institutional experience. Methods From March 2006 through May 2015, 231 patients underwent implantation of 240 CF LVADs, HeartMate II LVAD (Thoratec Corp., Pleasanton, CA; n = 205) or HVAD (HeartWare Inc., Framingham, MA; n = 35). Of these, 127 devices (52.9%) were implanted as bridge to transplantation (BTT) and 113 (47.1%) as destination therapy (DT). Results Mean age was 51.2 ± 11.9 years for BTT patients and 58.2 ± 11.4 years for DT patients ( p p p = 0.038). Gastrointestinal bleeding was the most common complication (29.6%), followed by right ventricular failure (22.5%) and stroke (15.0%), with a similar incidence for BTT and DT patients. Preoperative liver biopsy (hazard ratio [HR] 2.27, p = 0.036), mechanical support (HR 1.82, p = 0.025), aspartate transaminase (HR 1.07, p = 0.001), and alanine aminotransferase (HR 0.95, p = 0.024) were severe independent predictors of survival in multivariate analysis. Conclusions These data indicate excellent survival for BTT and DT patients on long-term LVAD support. However, for LVAD therapy to become a plausible alternative to heart transplantation, we need to further decrease the incidence of postoperative complications.
Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus in healthcare settings.

Purpose of reviewAttracting global attention, Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) continues to cause sporadic cases and a potential risk of healthcare-associated infections. In this review, we highlight what is known about the risk of transmission within healthcare facilities and
Chronic Headache Syndromes

This article reviews the changing perspectives on migraine and other chronic headache syndromes. It addresses the current interest in "central" (brain) pathogenetic mechanisms and various aspects of the diagnostic evaluation, classification, and treatment. Specific treatment regimens are detailed, including approaches to overuse of medication and dependency in patients with headache. The use of inpatient treatment units for refractory syndromes are considered. Post-traumatic headache conditions and those arising as a consequence of dental pathology are addressed.
Improving Food Labels for Health and Safety: Effects of Ingredients List Placement on Search Times

Finding the ingredients on food product labels can be critical for safety and health. This study examines whether the amount of time it takes to locate an ingredients list on a food product label depends on its physical location, or its position relative to a conspicuous landmark, the nutrition facts panel (NFP). The position of the ingredients list was manipulated with respect to 6 potential label locations and its position relative to the NFP, yielding 30 possible combinations of locations for the ingredients list and NFP. Participants were shown the set of 30 layouts in random order, with instructions to find the ingredients list on each layout. Response time (ms) for finding the ingredients list was recorded. Analyses indicated a significant vertical position effect, with placement on the bottom producing longer response times than the top or middle positions. Other analyses examined the relative distance between the ingredients and the NFP, which showed that participants found the ingredients list fa...
Genomic prediction contributing to a promising global strategy to turbocharge gene banks

The 7.4 million plant accessions in gene banks are largely underutilized due to various resource constraints, but current genomic and analytic technologies are enabling us to mine this natural heritage. Here we report a proof-of-concept study to integrate genomic prediction into a broad germplasm evaluation process. First, a set of 962 biomass sorghum accessions were chosen as a reference set by germplasm curators. With high throughput genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS), we genetically characterized this reference set with 340,496 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). A set of 299 accessions was selected as the training set to represent the overall diversity of the reference set, and we phenotypically characterized the training set for biomass yield and other related traits. Cross-validation with multiple analytical methods using the data of this training set indicated high prediction accuracy for biomass yield. Empirical experiments with a 200-accession validation set chosen from the reference set confirmed high prediction accuracy. The potential to apply the prediction model to broader genetic contexts was also examined with an independent population. Detailed analyses on prediction reliability provided new insights into strategy optimization. The success of this project illustrates that a global, cost-effective strategy may be designed to assess the vast amount of valuable germplasm archived in 1,750 gene banks.
Nest survival of Tricolored Blackbirds in California's Central Valley

ABSTRACT The Tricolored Blackbird (Agelaius tricolor), almost entirely restricted to California, USA, has recently been proposed for listing under the U.S. Endangered Species Act. Tricolored Blackbirds historically nested in wetlands, but a large proportion of the population now nests in agricultural grain fields where the crop is ready to harvest before the young have fledged. Since 1991, federal agencies have paid farmers to delay harvesting in an effort to increase nesting productivity. However, the relative nesting success of Tricolored Blackbirds breeding in agricultural fields versus wetlands is unknown. Our objectives were to estimate daily survival rate (DSR) of nests, identify habitat covariates that influence nest survival, and estimate the number of young produced per nest. During 2011–2012, we monitored 1,323 Tricolored Blackbird nests in 12 colonies using small temperature data loggers. We modeled DSR using Program RMark with combinations of the following variables: site, habitat type, nest i...
Micronutrient Status among Pregnant Women in Zinder, Niger and Risk Factors Associated with Deficiency.

Anemia and micronutrient (MN) deficiencies in pregnant women are associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. In Niger, 58.6% of pregnant women are anemic; however, MN statuses are unknown. The study objectives were to estimate the prevalence of MN deficiencies among pregnant women in Zinder, Niger and explore associated risk factors. Pregnant women living in randomly selected rural villages (n = 88) were included. Capillary and venous blood samples (n = 770) were analyzed for hemoglobin (Hb) and plasma ferritin, soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR), zinc (pZn), retinol binding protein (RBP), folate and vitamin B12. C-reactive protein and alpha-1-acid glycoprotein were measured to adjust for inflammation. The prevalence of MN deficiencies in pregnant woman was high, indicative of a severe public health problem. Prevalence of iron deficiency was 20.7% and 35.7%, by ferritin ( 8.3 mg/L), respectively. In total, 40.7% of women had low pZn (<50 µg/dL), 79.7% had marginal RBP (<1.32 µmol/L), 44.3% of women had low folate (<10 nmol/L) and 34.8% had low B12 concentrations (<148 pmol/L). Common risk factors associated with MN status included gravidity, mid-upper-arm circumference, geophagy, malaria, and result of the woman’s last pregnancy. Interventions to promote the strengthening of antenatal care, and access and adherence to nutrition and health interventions are critical among pregnant women in this population.
Matchmaking scientific workflows in grid environments

In this paper we analyze the scientific workflow matchmaking problem in Grid environments and combine workflow mapping and scheduling. Based on the characteristics of Grids, a new resource model is proposed. Motivated by the observations that not all jobs can run on all resources and that resource-critical jobs should be considered with their ancestor and descendant jobs when mapping, a novel resource-critical algorithm is designed based on a new Grid resource model. By means of experiments, it is shown to have good performance.
Effect of epitaxial strain on the optical properties of NaOsO3

Abstract We study the electronic and optical properties of NaOsO3 under epitaxial strain using first principles methods. Structural optimization shows important changes with strain in the structural parameters such as the Os O bond lengths and the octahedral rotation angles. The key change in the electronic structure is the band gap, which increases with compressive epitaxial strain and decreases with tensile strain. The computed optical absorption coefficient is more or less isotropic for the unstrained structure for light polarization along the three crystallographic directions, but for the strained structure, it is enhanced if the light polarization is along a compressed crystallographic direction due to strain. This is explained in terms of the admixture of Os (p) orbitals with the Os (d) states that form the valence and the conduction bands.
Anatomic Total Shoulder Arthroplasty Using a Self-Pressurizing Pegged Bone-Preserving Cemented Glenoid Component: A 2- to 5-Year Follow-up Study:

Background: High rates of radiographic loosening have been reported with various glenoid designs. Many available designs sacrifice most of the bone at the central portion of the glenoid vault, crea...
You Have the Right to Remain Silent. Or Do You

This chapter introduces the reader to a new concept, ethical pause, which points toward questions involving the people, the process, and the policy affiliated with a directive. When an ethical pause is bypassed, moral injury typically ensues. Additionally, the first boardroom language is introduced to the reader as the spotlight is placed on King David’s top military adviser. The discussion around Joab invites the reader to consider a unique perspective that could confront followers in the twenty-first century. Historical case studies are meticulously presented to the reader for the purpose of understanding possible consequences affiliated with speaking the first boardroom language. Finally, the reader is exposed to the traits of heroic courage and challenged with introspective questions.
The Struggle Is Real: Investigating the Challenge of Assigning a Failing Clinical Grade.

Aim The aim of the study was to explore the relationships between role strain, faculty stress, and perceived organizational support for nurse faculty who faced the decision to assign a failing clinical grade. Background Although faculty are responsible for assigning a grade reflecting students' competence and ability to practice safely, faculty find it troublesome and stressful to assign a failing clinical grade. Method A national sample consisting of 390 nursing faculty completed an online four-part questionnaire with an open-ended question. Data were analyzed using parametric statistical testing and conventional content analysis. Results Statistically significant relationships were found between role strain, faculty stress, and perceived organizational support. Ten issues related to system breakdown were identified. Most (82.6 percent) reported assigning the failing grade; many reported changes in teaching practices following the deliberation to assign a failing grade. Conclusion The decision to assign a failing clinical grade remains a significant issue for undergraduate and graduate clinical nurse faculty.
2,5-Dichloro­thio­phene 1,1-dioxide

The complete mol­ecule of the title compound, C4H2Cl2O2S, is generated by crystallographic twofold symmetry, with the S atom lying on the rotation axis. In the crystal, the molecules are linked by C—H⋯O hydrogen bonds..
The Cashew Nut and the Economic Development of a Nation: A Case Study of Guinea- Bissau

This case study aims at identifying and recommending solutions to Guinea-Bissau’s business problems. This paper’s primary focus is to answer the question: How to utilize the existing agriculture of cashews to enhance country’s economy? The cashew industry represents more than half of the GDP and employs 95% of the country’s job market. The cashew nuts also contribute to more than 90% of the country’s export earnings. However the corrupt legal system and the poor road conditions make it difficult to make full use of this great asset. Guinea-Bissau is known to have the most premium cashew nuts and therefore there is a lot of potential for more revenue to flow in to the country. This case study will explore the issues Guinea-Bissau is faced with and provide some solutions to help improve the countries situation using the cashew nuts to develop the economy.
Calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II.

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the presently known calcium (Ca 2+ )/calmodulin (CaM)-dependent protein kinases and some of their properties. To date, CaM kinase II is the only Ca 2+ )/CaM-dependent protein kinase known to phosphorylate a wide range of proteins and for this reason, it is sometimes referred to as the CaM-dependent multifunctional protein kinase or CaM-dependent multiprotein kinase. These properties, mainly established in vitro , together with the wide distribution of the kinase, suggest that CaM kinase II may be involved in the regulation of numerous physiological functions. The chapter summarizes the present knowledge of CaM kinase II with the particular emphasis on the molecular mechanisms involved in the regulation of kinase activity. It also reviews the literature concerning the putative physiological functions of the kinase. There is a great deal known about the in vitro properties of calmodulin (CaM) kinase II, both in terms of its substrate specificity and its regulation by CaM and autophosphorylation. Much of this characterization is based on the experiments performed with rat brain isozyme of CaM kinase II, although in the aspects examined to date isozymes of the kinase from other tissues appear to behave in a broadly similar manner in vitro . However, relatively little is known about the functions of the kinase in vivo . Investigation of the physiological role of the kinase in brain and other tissues will be a particularly exciting area for future work. The current knowledge of the in vitro properties and the availability of complimentary DNA (cDNA) clones will hopefully expedite this research.
Perianal Crohn's disease in children and adolescents

Objectives : To review the frequency, severity, course, and outcome of perianal Crohn's disease in children and adolescents. Methods : Records of 141 children and adolescents with Crohn's disease were reviewed. Of these, 18 patients (eight female, 10 male) between 9 and 18 yr of age (nine blacks and nine whites) had significant perianal disease. The disease was classified on the basis of external appearance, degree of inflammation, presence of infection or abscess formation, spread to vulva, loss of perineal body, and occurrence of anal canal stricture as being mild, moderate, or severe. Results : Eight patients had severe involvement, whereas moderate and mild degree of perianal disease was seen in six and four patients, respectively. Disease localization was as follows: pancolitis, 12 ; ileocolitis, four ; and left colitis, two. Therapy with Azulfidine or 5-amino salicylic acid preparation, local and systemic steroids, metronidazole, immunosuppressives, and enteral and/or parenteral nutrition was used in various combinations. Surgery was necessary in eight patients : in four for management of anal canal stricture, incision and drainage of abscess in two, total proctocolectomy in one, and fecal diversion in an additional patient. Over a follow-up period ranging from 18 months to 15 yr, nine patients had partial improvement, whereas in the rest, the disease either did not improve or worsened. Conclusions : Severe, mutilating perianal Crohn's disease, causing significant tissue destruction, occurs in both sexes and is extremely refractory to treatment in the majority of patients. The outcome in mild and moderate disease is better.
Forensic Analysis of Immersive Virtual Reality Social Applications: A Primary Account

Our work presents the primary account for exploring the forensics of immersive Virtual Reality (VR) systems and their social applications. The Social VR applications studied in this work include Bigscreen, Altspace VR, Rec Room and Facebook Spaces. We explored the two most widely adopted consumer VR systems: the HTC Vive and the Oculus Rift. Our tests examined the efficacy of reconstructing evidence from network traffic as well as the systems themselves. The results showed that a significant amount of forensically relevant data such as user names, user profile pictures, events, and system details may be recovered. We anticipate that this work will stimulate future research directions in VR and Augmented Reality (AR) forensics as it is an area that is understudied and needs more attention from the community.
Abstract WMP85: Frequency of Neurological Consultation in Medicare Patients With Ischemic Stroke

Introduction: Given recent advances in diagnostic and therapeutic tools, delivery of stroke care has become more complex. We sought to investigate what proportion of patients with stroke are evalua...
The Medal War in Peacetime: Examining Nationalistic Notions Embedded in CCTV’s Coverage of Gymnastics in the 2016 Rio Summer Olympics

The development of modern sports in China, to a large extent, has been motivated by nationalism. This study examines the Chinese Central Television’s (CCTV) full gymnastics broadcast (over 14 hours...
Media Coverage of Corporate Taxes

ABSTRACT Managers express growing concern over media coverage of corporate taxes, yet no large-sample empirical study examines this phenomenon. As a first step to fill this void, we identify factor...
Implantation of Left Ventricular Assist Device Results in Immediate Improvement of Glucose Metabolism in Patients With and Without Diabetes Mellitus.

Background Several studies demonstrated improvement in diabetes mellitus (DM) following left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation, but the timing of these changes has not been identified. We sought to determine if favourable metabolic changes occur immediately, within the initial hospitalisation following LVAD implantation. We also wanted to see whether favourable changes in glucose metabolism occur in patients without diabetes. Methods This is a retrospective analysis of patients receiving LVADs at our institution. We collected the data on fasting blood glucose (FBG) and total daily insulin requirements before the LVAD implantation and before the discharge. Patients served as their own controls. Results We studied 70 consecutive patients, half of them diabetic. In both diabetics and non-diabetics there was a significant reduction in FBG after LVAD implantation. In diabetic patients, there was an overall reduction in insulin requirements from the average 29.2 units of insulin per day before the LVAD to 16.2 units per day (p = 0.038) before discharge. Specifically, insulin requirement decreased in 16 patients by a median of 25.2 units per day (the interquartile range [IQR)]: -47.8 to -9.2), increased in 10 patients (by 7.3 units/day, IQR 0.7 to 15.3), and remained unchanged in six patients. Conclusions Favourable metabolic changes on LVAD support occurred almost immediately, within initial hospitalisation, in diabetics and non-diabetics alike. Decline in insulin requirements should be considered when managing diabetics following LVAD implantation.
Discussion on the Use of Psychiatric Medications: Questions by W. Harley Sobin MD Answers by Thomas W. Heinrich MD

This chapter provides a discussion on the use of psychiatric medication, through a Q&A format.
When does an ensemble of matrices with randomly scaled rows lose rank

We consider the problem of determining rank loss conditions for a concatenation of full-rank matrices, such that each row of the composing matrices is scaled by a random coefficient. This problem has applications in wireless interference management and recommendation systems. We determine necessary and sufficient conditions for the design of each matrix, such that the random ensemble will almost surely lose rank by a certain amount. The result is proved by converting the problem to determining rank loss conditions for the union of some specific matroids, and then using tools from matroid and graph theories to derive the necessary and sufficient conditions. As an application, we discuss how this result can be applied to the problem of topological interference management, and characterize the linear symmetric degrees of freedom for a class of network topologies.
Effects of capacity and transit improvements on traffic and transit operations

Transportation agencies are facing problems of inadequate capacities to meet growing traffic demand. Street widening, signal operations optimization, innovative designs and multimodal transportatio...
Real-Time Outlier Detection and Bayesian Classification using Incremental Computations for Efficient and Scalable Stream Analytics for IoT for Manufacturing

Abstract As the manufacturing industry progresses towards the Internet of Things (IoT) and Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS), current methods of historical data analytics face difficulties in addressing the new challenges which follow Industry 4.0. Industry 4.0 and IoT technologies facilitate the acquisition of ubiquitous data from machine tools and processes. However, these technologies also lead to the generation of a large number of data that are complex to be analyzed. Due to the streaming nature of the IoT systems, however, stream analytics could be used to extract features as the data are generated and published, which can prevent the need to store the data and perform advanced analytics that require high performance computing. This manuscript aims at demonstrating how traditional historical methods can be modified to be used as stream analytics tools for IoT data streams. Since data analytics is a wide domain, this paper has only focused on the two light-weighted methods that have been popular in the industry: Statistical Process Control Chart (SPCC), and Bayesian classification. This paper has defined, tested, and evaluated the accuracy and latency of the novel variation of these methods. It is concluded that by modifying the traditional methods and defining incremental solutions, methods such as Real-Time Dynamic Statistical Process Control Chart (RTDSPCC) and Incremental Gaussian Naive Bayes (IGNB) can be formed that are highly beneficial for IoT applications as they are highly scalable, require minimal storage, and can update the models in real-time.
Revisiting the internal mammaries as recipient vessels in breast reconstruction: considerations in current practice

The internal mammary artery (IMA) has supplanted the thoracodorsal artery as the primary recipient vessel in autologous breast reconstruction. Additionally, the IMA continues to be the preferred bypass graft choice in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). However, practice patterns in breast reconstruction have evolved considerably since the adoption of the IMA for this application. The authors sought to evaluate the safety of IMA harvest for breast reconstruction in our current practice, given the possibility that patients may require CABG in the future. The authors reviewed the prospective database of free flaps for breast reconstruction performed at their center from 2009 to 2017. Patients were divided into three groups (2009–2011, 2011–2013, 2014–2017) and compared on the basis of demographics, medical comorbidities, and laterality of reconstruction. Patients were further risk stratified for 10-year risk of cardiovascular events using the American College of Cardiology’s atheroscletoric and cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk calculator. There was a marked increase in the number of patients who underwent microsurgical breast reconstruction at our institution over the past three years (2009–2011, n = 55; 2012–2014, n = 50; 2015–2017, n = 145). The distribution of unilateral versus bilateral flaps changed meaningfully; however, they did not change statistically significantly over the study period (2009–2011 = 32.7%, 2012–2014 = 28.0%, 2015–2017 = 49.0%, p = 0.12). The rise in bilateral reconstructions over the study period is commensurate with the observed significant rise in contralateral prophylactic mastectomies (2009–2011 = 25.5%, 2012–2014 = 20.0%, 2015–2017 = 42.1%, p = 0.022). The mean 10-year risk of major cardiovascular events in the entire sample was 6.3 ± 7.1% (median 4.0%). The maximum individual risk score exceeded 25% in all three groups. Given overall trends in breast reconstruction and the sometimes-elevated cardiac risk profiles of our patients, the authors recommend risk stratification of all patients using the proposed Breast Reconstruction Internal Mammary Assessment (BRIMA) scoring system and consideration of left internal mammary artery preservation in select cases.
Fault Detection on Seismic Structural Images Using a Nested Residual U-Net

Automatic identification of faults on seismic structural images is a challenging yet crucial task in quantitative seismic interpretation. Human picking or attribute-based fault detection methods may misidentify faults on noisy, complex seismic images. We develop a new automatic fault detection method using a nested residual U-shaped convolutional neural network. Each of the encoders and decoders in this neural network is a residual U-Net, leading to a nested architecture. The final fault map results from the fusion of three fault maps with low, medium, and high fault resolutions. We demonstrate the excellent fault-detection capability of our nested neural network using a series of synthetic and field seismic images. We find that our approach produces clearer and more interpretable fault maps than the current state-of-the-art U-Net fault detection method, particularly on noisy seismic images. Our new automatic fault detection method can facilitate reliable quantitative seismic interpretation on field seismic images.
Intrauterine devices as an exposure risk for urinary tract infections: A scoping review.

Background The intrauterine device (IUD) as a potential source of uro-gynecologic infection has raised concern for decades. While a causal link between IUD and pelvic inflammatory disease has been refuted, the relationship between IUDs and urinary tract infections (UTIs) remains incompletely understood. Methods We used a PubMed, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library search strategy to identify studies evaluating UTI occurrence and microbial signatures among women exposed to IUD. We evaluated the question, "what is currently known about the IUD as an exposure risk for UTIs?" Results Nine studies met inclusion criteria and were summarized in this structured, scoping review. Studies to date have not reported a significant association between IUD exposue and UTI occurence. While all nine studies acknowledged the breadth of contraceptive methods, none evaluated the impact of different IUD types (i.e., copper vs. hormone-eluting) on UTI incidence. Conclusion Small sample sizes and inconsistent UTI definitions limit the current literature. Future studies should rigorously define the UTI phenotype and evaluate the association of UTI with IUD exposure accounting for known covariates.
Skin color in the squids Loligo pealii and Loligo opalescens

Two populations of iridophores are responsible for the iridescent color of the squids Loligo pealii and Loligo opalescens. The superficial group, the short iridophores, underlie the chromatophores and are associated with muscle cells of the skin. The long iridophores, a deeper-lying group, are arranged in a dense sheet. The ultrastructure of iridophores was described, including iridosomes, iridosomal platelets and iridosomal tubules. The observations were discussed in terms of adaptive coloration in these animals.
Encephalitis : diagnosis and treatment

Clinical Approach in Encephalitis Burke A. Cunha and John J. Halperin Encephalitis, Encephalopathy, and Epilepsy Jeffrey M. Politsky Neuropathology of Encephalitis Stefanie H. Freeman and E. Tessa Hedley-Whyte Molecular and Serologic Methods for Diagnosis of Encephalitis Eric D. Spitzer, Silvia G. Spitzer, and Marc G. Golightly Critical Care Management of Encephalitis Eelco F. M. Wijdicks Viral Encephalitis-Background, Arboviruses, and Enteroviruses John J. Halperin West Nile Virus Deborah S. Asnis and Robert S. Crupi Tick-Borne Encephalitis John J. Halperin Herpesvirus Encephalitis Nicholas L. King and Karen L. Roos Rabies John J. Halperin HIV-Associated Brain Disease David Hirschwerk Spirochetal Infections of the Nervous System John J. Halperin Encephalitis Due to Parasites Oscar H. Del Brutto Neurobrucellosis Guillermo H Giambartolomei, Jorge C. Wallach, and Pablo C. Baldi Listeria Infections and the Central Nervous System Bruce E. Hirsch Tuberculosis of the Central Nervous System Juan Carlos Garcia-Monco Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis Anita L. Belman Paraneoplastic and Related Forms of Encephalitis John J. Halperin and Jeffrey M. Politsky Index
Managing the motivation of information technology staff for higher organizational productivity and employee job satisfaction

Motivating Information Technoloty (IT) employees has become more and more difficult because of the rapid technological changes and global competitiveness in the marketplace. IT managers can use a plethora of techniques to improve staff productivity and quality of out­ put through better employee motivation techniques. This paper discusses some of those methods that can improve productivity as well as staff satisfaction with their work.
Adaptation and Natural Selection: Overview

Adaptation is both an evolutionary process and a product of natural selection: adaptation is a process of evolution in which traits are modified by natural selection; an adaptation is a phenotypic trait moulded by natural selection. In both cases the evolution is driven by natural selection. Keywords: evolution; genetic variation; fitness