cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The causes and consequences of accounting fraud

One of the fundamental purposes of corporate accounting is to facilitate the monitoring of managers. Since managers are instrumental in the production of accounting numbers, and since it is costly to monitor their behavior in this regard, firms sometimes report fraudulent accounting numbers. This paper tests several hypotheses concerning why some firms, and not others, commit accounting fraud. This is accomplished through examination of a sample of 62 firms charged with disclosure violations by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) during the period 1981–1987. We also examine whether directors of companies that commit accounting fraud are disciplined in the managerial labor market. We adopt the perspective that the decision to commit fraud is governed by the expected costs and benefits of this behavior (This approach to the study of fraud has been used elsewhere, e.g. Darby and Karni (1973); Michael R. Darby and Edi Karni, “Free Competition and the Optimal Amount of Fraud”, Journal of Law and Economics16 (April 1973), 68–88. For a brief discussion of the economics of fraud, see Edi Karni (1989) “Fraud” in The New Palgrave: Allocation, Information, and Markets, edited by John Earwell, Murray Milgate, and Peter Newman, New York: W.W. Norton, 117–119). Accordingly, a theory of accounting fraud requires an understanding of how these costs and benefits vary across firms. Those costs and benefits can be varied by external forces, through institutions such as equity markets and independent auditors, or internally through the design of monitoring and reward systems. We will divide our attention between the external and internal forces that change the costs and benefits of accounting fraud. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of Cathepsin D on Bovine Myofibrils under Different Conditions of pH and Temperature

Purified cathepsin D was incubated with bovine skeletal muscle myofibrils under in virro conditions resembling those found in postmortem muscle. SDS-PAGE analysis of myofibrils treated at pH 5.5 and 37°C and the sedimented, showed degradation of myosin heavy chains and titin. A small amount of actin, tropomyosin, troponins T and I, and myosin light chains also were degraded. The cathepsin D treated myofibrils were not fragmented to any greater extend than untreated myofibrils. Raising the pH and/or lowering the temperature greatly reduced the effectiveness of cathepsin D suggesting that the enzyme does not play a principal role in the tenderization process occurring in muscle postmortem.
Comparison of in vitro and in vivo acoustic response of a novel 50:50 PLGA contrast agent.

Abstract A comparison between in vitro and in vivo experiments conducted to investigate the acoustic properties of a novel, 1.2 μm diameter poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (50:50) (PLGA) ultrasound contrast agent, the development of which was described previously by us, is presented. A pulse-echo setup was used to determine enhancement in vitro. Additional in vitro studies further characterized the hollow microcapsules, including resonance frequency from attenuation measurements (from 2.25 to 15 MHz) and temperature effects (25 °C vs. 37 °C). In vivo, four rabbits received intravenous injections of the agent (dose range: 0.005–0.13 ml/kg). Quantitative in vivo dose–responses were calculated off-line using spectral power analysis of audio Doppler signals acquired from a custom-made 10 MHz cuff transducer placed around the surgically exposed distal aorta. This frequency was chosen since the very shallow scanning depths encountered in rabbits, in particular for the cuff transducer placed directly around the vessel, necessitates the use of high frequency imaging devices with sufficient spatial resolution to enable meaningful measurements. For qualitative assessments, two rabbits were imaged pre- and post-contrast administration (dose: 0.1 ml/kg) in power Doppler mode. Significant acoustic enhancements (up to 24 dB) were reported both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, the rabbits did not show any adverse side effects from multiple injections (>20) of the agent. Measured in vitro resonance frequency between 3.09 and 3.49 MHz was lower than predicted for a similar sized free bubble, potentially due to capsule wall structure. Minimal loss of signal (∼4 dB) was observed at 25 °C over 20 min of insonation at 5 MHz but at 37 °C the signal dropped close to base line within the first 5 min. This temperature sensitivity could be due to loss of capsule integrity (and hence loss of gas). Potential causes include increased hydrolysis or polymer softening and increased water uptake by the shell at temperatures closer to the glass transition temperature (Tg).
Completely Integrable Contact Hamiltonian Systems and Toric Contact Structures on S^2×S^3

I begin by giving a general discussion of completely integrable Hamiltonian systems in the setting of contact geometry. We then pass to the particular case of toric contact structures on the manifold S 2 S 3 . In particular we give a complete solution to the contact equivalence problem for a class of toric contact structures, Y p;q , discovered by physicists by showing that Y p;q and Y p 0 ;q 0 are inequivalent as contact structures if and only if p6 p 0 .
An integrated approach for modeling uncertainty in aggregate production planning

An integrated solution approach for studying uncertainty in the aggregate production planning problem is proposed. Procedures for evaluating and utilizing the results provided by the integrated solution approach are also presented. This modeling methodology is demonstrated on a multiple-product fixed-workforce example. The example considers three product types, three processes, and 13 planning periods. Uncertainties in selling price, cost, demand, capacity, consumption of capacity, and retention of backorders are modeled, and different capacity levels and demand trends are examined. The solutions provided by a few simplified planning strategies are evaluated and compared for two of the capacity levels. These evaluations and comparisons indicate that a simple control law could provide very robust solutions for this example. >
Information Processing Deficits in Children with Learning Disabilities

The ability of learning disabled children to process, retain, and retrieve verbal information is investigated within a series of information-processing tasks. These investigations reveal that both the rate and level at which these children process information are below the standards set by normal reading contemporaries.
Lookback:a new way of exploiting parallelism in discrete event simulation

Lookback is defined as the ability of a logical process to change its past locally (without involving other logical processes). Logical processes with lookback are able to process out-of-timestamp order events, enabling new synchronization protocols for the parallel discrete event simulation. Two of such protocols, LB-GVT (LookBack-Global Virtual Time) and LB-EIT (LookBack-Earliest Input Time), are presented and their performance on the Closed Queuing Network (CQN) simulation is discussed. We also discuss in detail the relation between lookahead and lookback. Finally, we demonstrate that lookback allows conservative simulations to circumvent the speedup limit imposed by the critical path.
Quasi-two-dimensional time-domain color memories: process limitations and potentials

Coherent-transient-based, frequency-selective, optical memories (time-domain optical memories) have been proposed as a means of achieving ultrahigh-density and high-speed optical storage. An analogy with existing storage devices suggests an implementation that uses discrete spatial storage cells arrayed on a two-dimensional surface. We analyze fundamental process potential relating to data storage density for memories of this particular configuration.
Proportional nonuniform multi-Gabor expansions

A nonuniform multi-Gabor expansion (MGE) scheme is studied under proportional time and frequency (TF) shifts among different window indices m. In particular, TF parameters for each m are different, but proportional and relevant to windows' TF patterns. The generation of synthesis waveforms for nonuniform MGE is generally difficult. We show constructively that there is a set of basic synthesis MGE waveforms at each window index under proportional parameter settings. Nonuniform MGE adapts to signal frequency dynamics effectively, and eliminates unnecessary overlapping redundancies of a uniform MGE. Examples of the evaluation of synthesis waveforms are provided. Efficiency comparison of TF analysis using nonuniform and uniform MGEs is also discussed.
P1G-2 Dynamically Reconfigurable Neural Network Hardware Design for Ultrasonic Target Detection

Ultrasonic flaw detection and classification is an essential method for many NDE applications. Frequency diverse algorithms such as split spectrum processing (SSP) can be used effectively for flaw detection since they decompose the signal in different subbands and induce significant statistical variation in scattering noise or speckles. Following the subband decomposition, neural networks can be used as post-processors for enhanced detection performance. In this study, it has been shown that using neural networks (NN), the flaw-to-clutter ratio (FCR) improvement up to 13dB can be achieved when the input experimental signal has FCR equal to 0dB or less. The experimental ultrasonic flaw signals masked by grain scattering noise (i.e., clutter) are obtained from a steel block using a 5MHz transducer and 100MHz sampling rate. Neural network algorithms are computationally demanding and require substantial hardware resources for implementation due to their complex connectivity. Therefore, we have designed an efficient and adaptable neural network architecture for real-time realization of ultrasonic flaw detection applications. The hardware implementation takes full advantage of the inherent parallelism of neural networks and is dynamically reconfigurable; indicating the system is flexible and can be suitable for various NDE applications
Diffusion kernel to identify missing PPIs in protein network biomarker

Little focus has been placed on neighborhood proteins in the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network that do not physically interact with each other but have a higher likelihood to interact than the actual PPIs in the network. Identifying these missing PPIs would complete the protein network biomarker representing a disease. In the present study, we check the capability of diffusion kernel in identifying these missing PPIs. A diffusion kernel is a computational framework which is based on a physical phenomenon of gas diffusion and a computer science concept of random walk on a graph or network. We seek to predict probable missing PPIs related to Allergy and Asthma using diffusion kernel, by employing a threshold on the kernel values. The completed protein network biomarker can be used as a better predictor for disease identification and classification. This would also help in better understanding of disease mechanism at protein network level. Our results show that the network with high PPI score has better accuracy of predicting missing PPIs.
A comparative analysis of income distribution patterns in New York and Ohio - preliminary observations and hypotheses

The problem of income and wealth inequality, together with persistently high poverty rates, in the U.S. is getting a great deal of attention recently. As part of a series of researches on regional income inequality and poverty issues, this paper aims to present a preliminary result of the author’s statistical analysis of income distribution patterns in the State of Ohio. Applying some of well-known statistical tools such as the Gini coefficient and the linear interpolation method to publicly available state level personal income tax data from 1986 to 2013, the paper attempts to show a snapshot of historical income distribution patterns in Ohio. The preliminary result in this paper shows that income distribution in Ohio has broadly followed national trends of worsening income inequality, especially since the 1980s. However, unlike many Eastern cities or states (such as New York City and New York State) where FIRE (finance, insurance, real estate) sector has been predominant in their industrial structure, Ohio state seems to have its own structural causes of unequitable income distribution. These structural causes may include drastic corporate offshoring, introduction of labor saving technologies in the remaining goods-producing industries, and the continual dis-industrialization process reinforced by a particular set of trade policies. With these hypotheses in mind, the author will seek to identify relative significance of structural factors lain behind this particular regional income inequality pattern in Ohio in following up papers. In addition, later research will also include an analysis of differential gross earnings by industries, county-level income distribution patterns and poverty rates, which may show potentially vast regional divides and variations within the state of Ohio.
Learning and teaching with social network sites: A decade of research in K-12 related education

The increasingly widespread use of social network sites to expand and deepen one's social connections is a relatively new but potentially important phenomenon that has implications for teaching and learning and teacher education in the 21st century. This paper surveys the educational research literature to examine: How such technologies are perceived and used by K-12 learners and teachers with what impacts on pedagogy or students' learning. Selected studies were summarized and categorized according to the four types introduced by Roblyer (2005) as studies most needed to move the educational technology field forward. These include studies that establish the technology's effectiveness at improving student learning; investigate implementation strategies; monitor social impact; and report on common uses to shape the direction of the field. We found the most prevalent type of study conducted related to our focal topic was research on common uses. The least common type of study conducted was research that established the technology's effectiveness at improving student learning. Implications for the design of future research and teacher education initiatives are discussed.
Large Mode Area Random Acoustically Microstructured Photonic Crystal Fibers For SBS Suppression

Using a fully vectorial finite element method, we have calculated the Brillouin gain spectra of large mode area, random acoustically microstructured photonic crystal fibers. We found that the peak Brillouin gain depends on the acoustic domain size and that a 4% spread in acoustic velocities results in peak Brillouin gain values that are suppressed by 8 dB relative compared to homogeneous fused silica fibers.
The Development of Professional Attitudes in Medical Technology Students

An attitude opinionnaire was developed, focusing on professional attitudes and behaviors identified as important in the practice of medical technology. This opinionnaire was used as a pretest and posttest. A simple booklet showing unprofessional medical technologist behaviors and their effects was used as the experimental teaching method. Junior-year medical technology students were randomized into a Solomon four-group design to control for variables. Results showed that the students who received the pretest, booklet and posttest were the only students who showed a rise in mean test score. The rise, which was statistically significant at the 0.07 level, suggests that an attitude opinionnaire and booklet may enhance the development of professional attitudes in medical technology students.
Time series study of relationship between ambient PM_(10) and outpatient visits for respiratory diseases in Shenzhen

Objective To quantitatively assess the impact of ambient PM10on hospital outpatient visits for respiratory diseases. Methods Daily hospital outpatient visit data in 2012 were collected from two hospitals in Shenzhen. Daily meteorological and air pollution data in the same duration were obtained from Shenzhen Meteorological Bureau and Shenzhen Environmental Protection Bureau,respectively. A time-series analysis using a generalized additive model( GAM) was applied to assess the association between ambient PM10concentration and hospital outpatient visits for respiratory diseases after adjustment for long-term trend,day-of-week,meteorological factors and other air pollutants. Results The average PM10concentration in Shenzhen in 2012 was 0. 052 mg /m3,meeting the national second-level standard. The total outpatient visits of the two involved hospitals were 562 174 with an average of 1 535. 99 persons per day.GAM models indicated a positive association between ambient PM10concentration and hospital outpatient visits for respiratory diseases. In the single-pollutant models,the effect of PM10was largest on lag 6 days( RR =1.004 7,95%CI:1.003 6 ~1.005 8). In multi-pollutant models adjustment for CO,O3,NO2and SO2,the RRs for the increment of PM10concentration varied,and the RRs in the models adjustment for SO2( RR =1. 005 9) and models adjustment for CO and SO2( RR =1.006 7) were the largest two. Conclusion The ambient PM10concentration was positively associated with hospital outpatient visits for respiratory diseases in Shenzhen,and a lag structure was found in these associations.
Secondary Testicular Tumors

A case of bilateral testicular metastases from carcinoma of the colon is reported. A review of the literature on secondary testicular tumors reveals their rarity and speculation is made as to the routes of metastases.
Photometrische Bestimmung von NH4OH in NH4F-Lösungen und NH4F-HF-Puffergemischen

Zur reproduzierbaren Herstellung von NH4F-HF-Atzlosungen mus der Gehalt an NH4OH in den kauflichen 40% igen NH4F-Losungen ermittelt werden. Hierzu wurde eine colorimetrische Methode unter Verwendung von pH-Farbindicatoren der Phenolgruppe ausgearbeitet, die geringe pH-Wertabweichungen (0,007 pH) vom Soll (0% NH4OH) zu messen erlaubt, wobei der Sollwert durch stabile Citronensaure-Phosphatpuffer simuliert wird. Durch Extinktionsmessung gelingt es, 0,01% NH4OH in NH4F-Losungen zu erfassen. Die gefundenen Werte liegen zwischen 0,1–0,3%.
Characterization of CMR-derived haemodynamic data in children with pulmonary arterial hypertension.

Aims Paediatric pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is manifested as increased arterial pressure and vascular resistive changes followed by progressive arterial stiffening. The aim of this study was to characterize regional flow haemodynamic patterns and markers of vascular stiffness in the proximal pulmonary arteries of paediatric PAH patients, and to explore the association with right ventricular (RV) function. Methods and results Forty paediatric PAH patients and 26 age- and size-matched controls underwent cardiac magnetic resonance studies in order to compute time-resolved wall shear stress metrics, oscillatory shear index (OSI), and vascular strain as measured by relative area change (RAC), and RV volumetric and functional parameters. Phase-contrast imaging planes were positioned perpendicular to the mid-main and right pulmonary arteries (MPA and RPA, respectively). Compared with controls, the PAH group had decreased systolic wall shear stress (dyne cm−2) and RAC (%) in both MPA (WSSsys: 6.5 vs. 4.3, P < 0.0001; RAC: 36 vs. 25, P < 0.0001) and RPA (WSSsys: 11.2 vs. 7.3, P < 0.0001; strain: 37 vs. 30, P < 0.05). The OSI was significantly higher in the MPA of PAH subjects (0.46 vs. 0.17, P < 0.05). WSS measured in the MPA correlated positively with RAC ( r = 0.63, P < 0.0001) and RV ejection fraction (%) ( r = 0.63, P < 0.0001). Conclusion Wall shear stress, the principal haemodynamic force driving endothelial functional changes, is severely decreased in paediatric PAH patients and correlates with increased stiffness in the proximal pulmonary vasculature and reduced RV function.
Hip Injuries in the Endurance Athlete

Evaluation and management of the endurance athlete with hip pain require a thorough knowledge of the layered structure of normal anatomy and abnormal pathoanatomy in and around the hip joint. The subjective history and objective physical examination must be combined with any imaging to properly “treat the athlete and not the X-ray.” Patients with intra-articular pathology report deep groin pain, worse with the offending sporting activity, deep flexion, and rotational maneuvers. Physical examination typically reveals a loss of hip flexion and rotation with positive impingement findings. Risk factors for femoral neck stress fracture must be sought, evaluated, and promptly managed as this is an unmissable diagnosis. Femoroacetabular impingement and labral tears are likely the most common diagnosis in endurance athletes. Plain radiographs are very useful in endurance athletes with hip pain. However, advanced imaging with MRI and CT has a distinct and growing role in appropriate evaluation. Sources of pain around the hip joint frequently coexist, and the clinician must systematically assess all potential diagnoses, as they are not mutually exclusive.
Design and feasibility study of Gamma-Cube — a high resolution and high sensitivity SPECT system for in vivo mouse brain studies

In this paper, we report the design and feasibility study of a high resolution and high sensitivity SPECT (Gamma-Cube) system for mouse brain imaging. The system consists of six high resolution gamma ray detectors, arranged in cubic geometry, and a truncated spherical aperture with multiple pinholes, which offers a relatively uniform 4π angular coverage around the object. The proposed Gamma-Cube system is based on the so-called energy-resolved photon-counting (ERPC) detector that consists of multiple pixilated CdTe detectors bump-bonded to ERPC readout ASICs that are 1.1×2.2cm in size with a pixel pitch of 350μm×350μm. In this study, we used Monte Carlo simulation to optimize system geometry and multiple-pinhole patterns for detection of a tiny amount of radioactivity in mouse brain.
Parameters for Successful Parental RNAi as An Insect Pest Management Tool in Western Corn Rootworm, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera

Parental RNAi (pRNAi) is an RNA interference response where the gene knockdown phenotype is observed in the progeny of the treated organism. pRNAi has been demonstrated in female western corn rootworms (WCR) via diet applications and has been described as a potential approach for rootworm pest management. However, it is not clear if plant-expressed pRNAi can provide effective control of next generation WCR larvae in the field. In this study, we evaluated parameters required to generate a successful pRNAi response in WCR for the genes brahma and hunchback. The parameters tested included a concentration response, duration of the dsRNA exposure, timing of the dsRNA exposure with respect to the mating status in WCR females, and the effects of pRNAi on males. Results indicate that all of the above parameters affect the strength of pRNAi phenotype in females. Results are interpreted in terms of how this technology will perform in the field and the potential role for pRNAi in pest and resistance management strategies. More broadly, the described approaches enable examination of the dynamics of RNAi response in insects beyond pRNAi and crop pests.
Final Report on Tandem Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation for Patients with Primary Progressive or Poor Risk Recurrent Hodgkin Lymphoma - A Two Institution Study.

Background: While autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) for patients with relapsed/refractory Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) appears to offer a survival advantage over conventional therapy, only approximately 25–35% of patients with primary progressive or poor risk recurrent Hodgkin Lymphoma achieve durable remission after ASCT with disease progression after transplant accounted for most of the treatment failures. We (a collaboration between City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center and Loyola University Medical Center) conducted a pilot study to evaluate the toxicities and efficacy of a tandem transplant approach in this subgroup of patients. Methods: Between 4/98 and 3/00, 46 patients (median age: 37 [range 17–65]) were enrolled in the study. Eligibility criteria: primary progressive (n=28) or recurrent HL (n=18) with at least one of the following poor prognostic factors: first CR 6 CD 34/kg autologous stem cells were re-infused after each cycle of therapy. Results: Of the 46 pts, 41 (89%) patients completed the planned tandem transplants. Five (11%) did not receive the planned tandem transplants because of inadequate stem cells collection for 2nd ASCT. After a median of 64 days (25–105), 41 patients received the 2 transplants. With a median follow up of 5 years (1.6–6.4), 24 patients are alive and progression-free at last follow up. Of the 41 patients who received both cycles of high dose therapy, 21 are alive and disease-free; 17 developed disease progression at a median of 4 months (range 1–61) post-ASCT. There were 2 early deaths secondary to regimen related toxicities. Both of them died of interstitial pneumonitis. The Day100 mortality was 4%. One patient developed secondary MDS 28 months post-ASCT after receiving further chemotherapy for relapsed disease. Using an intent-to-treat analysis for all 46 patients included in the study, the 5-year K-M estimate of overall survival, progression free survival and event free survival were 73% (95%CI 60,87), 61% (95% CI 46, 76) and 50% (95% CI 35, 64) respectively. Conclusion: Our mature results from this study suggest that in patients with primary progressive or poor risk recurrent Hodgkin Lymphoma, this tandem ASCT program is effective and well tolerated and compares favorably with the conventional single transplant without increase in transplant related toxicities.
The Long‐Term Impact of Entrepreneurial Self‐Efficacy and Entrepreneurial Orientation on Venture Performance

We collected multi‐wave survey data to assess the lagged effects of entrepreneurial self‐efficacy (ESE) and entrepreneurial orientation (EO) on firm performance over a five‐year period. The results...
Biological Characteristics of Sludge

Much research has been conducted recently on cellular physics concerning metabolic activities of cells. Since sludge is composed primarily of mixed cultures of microorganisms, the cellular physiology and mechanisms utilized by typical cells should be examined in order to determine their effect during the wastewater treatment processes. The microorganisms utilized to metabolize biodegradable wastewaters are characteristic of the wastewater to be treated. The cells introduced into the secondary system generate predominant microorganisms which can metabolize the typical wastes dissolved in the wastewater. Since each wastewater may be unique, each wastewater, then, may generate a unique sludge. Therefore, it is not necessary to characterize a sludge species-wise, since exceptions can always be cited. We will therefore assume that sludges can be typified in their physiological state and in their mechanisms by some characteristic, generalized microorganism. The physiological characteristics will be described briefly in the second section of this manuscript and the mechanisms of transport used by various microorganisms will be described in the third section. Furthermore, since biodegradation is a two step process consisting of both transport and reaction, the succeeding paper will deal with the reaction process.
Thrombocytopenia in Pregnancy

Thrombocytopenia in pregnancy is a common complication. Common causes include gestational thrombocytopenia, severe preeclampsia, HELLP syndrome, and disseminated intravascular coagulation. Rare causes include TTP, HUS, rheumatologic conditions, and HIV. Treatment varies by cause; however, it can include steroids, IVIG, platelet transfusions, plasma exchange, and delivery [1].
Doxorubicin chemomyectomy: injection of monkey orbicularis oculi results in selective muscle injury

Doxorubicin was injected into the preseptal portion of the orbicularis oculi of one lower eyelid in each of two cynomolgus monkeys at a dose of 2 mg. One monkey was observed for 4 days and the other for 68 days after doxorubicin injection. Although some skin ulceration was seen, it was completely healed by 3 weeks postinjection. The preseptal portion of the orbicularis oculi in both monkeys showed extensive signs of injury. At 4 days after doxorubicin injection many necrotic muscle fibers could be seen. Very few muscle fibers in the preseptal portion of the muscle remained by 68 days after injection. The pretarsal portion of the injected orbicularis oculi was relatively normal, with little evidence of injury. It appears that doxorubicin injection into the lower lid resulted in a gradient of muscle injury, with increasing severity at decreasing distances from the injection site. The extent of muscle injured is related to the dose and injection site and indicates the ability to selectively control the injury within a muscle. The ramifications of this effect on the use of doxorubicin for permanent treatment of blepharospasm and other related diseases are discussed in this first report of the injection of this drug into the eyelids of nonhuman primates.
Grid Governance: The Role of a National Network Coordinator

Mounting concerns over the security and reliability of the grid have prompted many to question the grid’s state-centered regulatory framework. Today, the federal government regulates interstate transmission, while the states exercise exclusive authority over intrastate distribution, generation, and transmission siting. In an interconnected system, however, each state’s energy policies and infrastructure investments inevitably affect operations and costs throughout the entire network. The ongoing physical, financial, and technological integration of the interstate electric power network portends a growing federal role in coordinating intrastate infrastructure policy. This Article conceptualizes the federal role in grid governance as that of a “National Network Coordinator.” The Article illustrates the coordination model with respect to federal policies establishing national transmission reliability standards and siting interstate transmission lines. The coordination model rationalizes an expansion of federal authority, but also provides a principle to limit that expansion. Federal authority need not preclude state regulation that supplements or enhances the federal standards. If federal authority is used to coordinate — rather than replace — state regulation, much of the value of state autonomy is preserved.
Abstract P164: Cognitive Impairment Among Adults With Incident Heart Failure

Background: Cognitive impairment is as high as 70% among adults with heart failure (HF) and its prevalence increases with the duration and severity of HF. However, little is known about the prevalence of cognitive impairment early in the course of HF. This is important, as high cognitive impairment at diagnosis would suggest that earlier screening would be warranted. We examined the prevalence and correlates of cognitive impairment among adults with incident HF. Methods: We used data from the Reasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS) Study, an observational, longitudinal cohort study of 30,239 community-dwelling adults >45 recruited from 2003 to 2007. Blacks and residents of the stroke belt were oversampled. Global cognitive status was assessed annually by telephone with the Six-item Screener (SIS) and the diagnosis of incident HF was validated by physicians using medical records and standard clinical criteria. Participants who were hospitalized for incident HF from 2004 until 2016 with a SIS completed > 1 month but 20%). Results: Of the 436 participants with incident HF, 14.9% had cognitive impairment. In an age-adjusted model, older age (OR 1.04 [95% CI 1.01 - 1.08], black race (OR 1.88 [95% 1.08-3.28]), Conclusion: The prevalence of cognitive impairment among adults with incident HF was greater than the prevalence of cognitive impairment among matched participants with low CHD risk, but less than the prevalence of cognitive impairment among matched participants with the highest CHD risk. This suggests that the majority of cognitive decline in HF may occur later in the course of the disease. Increased awareness of cognitive impairment among newly diagnosed patients, as well as ways to mitigate cognitive decline in the context of HF management, are warranted.
Metal–Organic Framework-Inspired Metal-Containing Clusters for High-Resolution Patterning

We report the preparation of discrete nanometer-scale zinc-based clusters and use them to form sub-15 nm structures by means of extreme ultraviolet lithography. By taking advantage of a metal-containing building unit derived by a metal–organic framework—MOF-2, we found the 3-methyl-phenyl-modified Zn-mTA cluster that formed is well-defined with controlled size and structure and demonstrates extremely high solubility. Progress in recent years in metal–organic frameworks has created a rich variety of metal-containing structures that are useful for numerous applications. Substitution of the bridging ligands with monovalent ligands produces a discrete metal–organic cluster that strongly interacts with soft X-rays at a wavelength of 13 nm. Here we describe the design, preparation, computational modeling, and physical characterization of these new materials. Such metal-containing structures may form the basis of photoresists that enable the next generation of microelectronic devices.
Mechanism of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Small Protease (PASP), a Corneal Virulence Factor.

Purpose Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the leading cause of contact lens-associated bacterial keratitis. Secreted bacterial proteases have a key role in keratitis, including the P. aeruginosa small protease (PASP), a proven corneal virulence factor. We investigated the mechanism of PASP and its importance to corneal toxicity. Methods PASP, a serine protease, was tested for activity on various substrates. The catalytic triad of PASP was sought by bioinformatic analysis and site-directed mutagenesis. All mutant constructs were expressed in a P. aeruginosa PASP-deficient strain; the resulting proteins were purified using ion-exchange, gel filtration, or affinity chromatography; and the proteolytic activity was assessed by gelatin zymography and a fluorometric assay. The purified PASP proteins with single amino acid changes were injected into rabbit corneas to determine their pathological effects. Results PASP substrates were cleaved at arginine or lysine residues. Alanine substitution of PASP residues Asp-29, His-34, or Ser-47 eliminated protease activity, whereas PASP with substitution for Ser-59 (control) retained activity. Computer modeling and Western blot analysis indicated that formation of a catalytic triad required dimer formation, and zymography demonstrated the protease activity of the homodimer, but not the monomer. PASP with the Ser-47 mutation, but not with the control mutation, lacked corneal toxicity, indicating the importance of protease activity. Conclusions PASP is a secreted serine protease that can cleave proteins at arginine or lysine residues and PASP activity requires dimer or larger aggregates to create a functional active site. Most importantly, proteolytic PASP molecules demonstrated highly significant toxicity for the rabbit cornea.
Bow Tie Antenna with Metamaterial Loading for Selective Directivity and Improved Gain

This paper presents a bow tie antenna with and without metamaterial loading operating from 1.2 GHz to 1.45 GHz. Five layers, each consisting of a 4⨯5 array of split ring resonators (SRR)and modified split ring resonators (SRR)on a FR-4 substrate is placed around the antenna. The directivity in the E-plane is increased by a factor of two compared to the H-plane. The gain at 1.32 GHz for the antenna with SRR and modified SRR is equal to 2.84 dB and 2.82 dB respectively, compared to 1.77 dB of a bow tie antenna without metamaterial loading.
Application of fully permeable pavements as a sustainable approach for mitigation of stormwater runoff

Abstract The current research paper presents the implementation of a new design method for fully permeable pavements, developed using the mechanistic-empirical approach by the University of California Pavement Research Center (UCPRC) through building two test sections which includes asphalt and concrete at California State University Long Beach (CSULB). Fully permeable pavements are characterized as that in which all layers are permeable, and the pavement structure serves as a reservoir to store water and minimize the negative impacts of stormwater. Pressure cells and strain gages were installed during the construction of pavement for measuring the stress on the top of subgrade and strain at the bottom of surface layer on both test sections to evaluate the performance of the fully permeable pavement. In this study, the traffic count was also determined. The collected data from pressure cells and strain gages were analysed using MATLAB program and graphs were plotted to study the pattern in the data sets. The plots revealed that the asphalt section experienced more stress and strain in comparison to concrete test section. Both the test sections showed reliable performance in terms of distresses. Though the year 2017 was considered to be one of the wettest in California, both test sections performed well in infiltrating the stormwater. The collected data is being used to evaluate the performance of both test sections. Based on the performance evaluation results, it was determined that it is possible to develop and implement the fully permeable pavement design as part of a sustainable approach for freeways.
Sometimes Allies: Parent-Led Disability Organizations and Social Movements

Despite the recent growth of scholarship on parent activism related to disability, the existing literature tends to focus on specific organizations and time periods and draw on a social psychological approach to examine the motivations of parents in becoming activists. This paper considers disability activism as a field of social movement organizations and focuses on disability organizations led by parents and their relationship to organizations led by activists with disabilities. Using qualitative methods informed by theoretically focused coding and grounded situational analysis, we examine the public framing of four national parent-led organizations that are politically prominent. Through this field approach, the analysis reveals the diversity of parent-led organizations, commonalities and the fault lines among these organizations, and the factors which effect the likelihood of alliances between organizations led by parents and those led by activists with disabilities.
Demonstration of shift, scale, and rotation invariant target recognition using the hybrid opto-electronic correlator

Previously, we had proposed a hybrid opto-electronic correlator (HOC), which can achieve the same functionality as that of a holographic optical correlator but without using any holographic medium. Here, we demonstrate experimentally that the HOC is capable of detecting objects in a scale, rotation, and shift invariant manner. First, the polar Mellin transformed (PMT) versions of two images are produced, using a combination of optical and electronic signal processing. The PMT images are then used as the reference and the query inputs for the HOC. The observed correlation signal is used to infer, with high accuracy, the relative scale and angular orientation of the original images. We also discuss practical constraints in reaching a high-speed implementation of such a system. In addition, we describe how these challenges may be overcome for producing an automated version of such a correlator.
Synthesis of 2'-deoxyguanosine containing a N2-polyamine

The synthesis of benzylated N 2 -(4,7,10,13-tetraazatridec-1-yl)-2'-deoxyguanosines 4 was accomplished by a key nucleophilic reaction of the novel unsymmetrical polyamine 2, with 3',5'-O-(tetraisopropyldisiloxane-1,3-diyl)-2-chloro-2'-deoxyinosine (1)
An 'i' for ingenuity.

The rapidly dividing bacterium Vibrio natriegens holds promise for transforming traditional molecular biology and biotechnology processes. New work demonstrates that CRISPR interference technology is a robust tool for rapid, genome-wide screens in V. natriegens, facilitating future bioengineering efforts.
Cost-aware cloudlet placement in edge computing systems

One of the well-known challenges in Edge Computing is strategic placement of cloudlets. The fundamental goals of this challenge are to minimize the deployment cost and to guarantee minimum latency for the users of edge services. We address this challenge by designing a cost-aware cloudlet placement approach that fully maps user applications to appropriate cloudlets while ensuring their latency requirements. We investigate the effectiveness of our proposed approach by performing extensive experiments based on New York City OpenData. The results show that our approach obtains close to optimal cost solutions with significantly reduced execution time.
4 – Training and Development for High Performance

With the passage of time, the value of well-designed training becomes more apparent for the success of individual employees. Similarly, managers and executives have a need for constant development and renewal in their work. This chapter describes how a training program can be designed and managed for different requirements. To be effective, training efforts must be assessed after the fact.
Socioeconomic and Demographic Characteristics of US Adults Who Purchase Prescription Drugs From Other Countries.

Importance Little is known about the current use of imported drugs and the factors associated with individual purchase of medications outside the US. Objective To evaluate the proportion of the US adult population that purchases medications in other countries and the patient factors associated with the behavior. Design, Setting, and Participants This retrospective cross-sectional study used data from the 2015-2017 National Health Interview Survey. The study sample included 61 238 individuals 18 years or older who reported use of prescribed medication by a physician or other practitioner. Data analysis was performed in November 2019. Main Outcomes and Measures Self-reported experience of purchasing prescription drugs from countries outside the US in the past 12 months. Internet use behaviors for health care included searches for health information and filling of a prescription online. Medication-taking behaviors included skipping or delaying filling a prescription and using alternative therapies to save money. Survey design–adjusted analysis was used to estimate and compare characteristics between those who purchased medications outside the US and those did not. Multivariable logistic regression was fitted to examine the association of medication purchases with internet use and medication-taking behavior factors. Results Among 61 238 US adults taking prescription medications (mean [SD] age, 50.5 [18.5] years; 56.5% female; 70.8% white), the estimated prevalence of purchasing of medication outside the US was 1.5% (95% CI, 1.4%-1.7%; 2.3 million US individuals). Those who purchased medications outside the US were more likely to be older (age >64 years; adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.68; 95% CI, 1.24-2.29), to be from Hispanic (aOR, 1.70; 95% CI, 1.23-2.35) or immigrant populations (aOR, 3.20; 95% CI, 2.44-4.20), and to have higher educational attainment (bachelor's degree; aOR, 1.79; 95% CI, 1.27-2.54), lower family income (low income; aOR, 1.41; 95% CI, 1.06-1.87), and lack of insurance (aOR, 3.14; 95% CI, 2.33-4.21). Data analyses indicated that online health information–seeking behavior (aOR, 1.62; 95% CI, 1.33-1.98) or use of an online pharmacy (aOR, 2.30; 95% CI, 1.83-2.90) was associated with a greater likelihood of medication purchases outside the US. Individuals who skipped medications (aOR, 3.86; 95% CI, 3.05-4.88) or delayed filling a prescription (aOR, 4.04, 95% CI, 3.23-5.06) also had higher odds of purchasing medication outside the US. Conclusions and Relevance The findings suggest that patients are not using prescription purchases outside the US to meet their medication needs. However, monitoring to promote safe administration of medications imported into the US should be continued.
Assemblage Theory and the Two Poles of Organic Life

This paper introduces Deleuze and Guattari's assemblage theory into the contemporary biological context. I begin by laying out at some length what I take to be the defining features of Deleuze and ...
Facilitating islet transplantation using a three-step approach with mesenchymal stem cells, encapsulation, and pulsed focused ultrasound.

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of a three-step approach that utilizes the application of adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AD-MSCs), encapsulation, and pulsed focused ultrasound (pFUS) to help the engraftment and function of transplanted islets. In step 1, islets were co-cultured with AD-MSCs to form a coating of AD-MSCs on islets: here, AD-MSCs had a cytoprotective effect on islets; in step 2, islets coated with AD-MSCs were conformally encapsulated in a thin layer of alginate using a co-axial air-flow method: here, the capsule enabled AD-MSCs to be in close proximity to islets; in step 3, encapsulated islets coated with AD-MSCs were treated with pFUS: here, pFUS enhanced the secretion of insulin from islets as well as stimulated the cytoprotective effect of AD-MSCs. Our approach was shown to prevent islet death and preserve islet functionality in vitro. When 175 syngeneic encapsulated islets coated with AD-MSCs were transplanted beneath the kidney capsule of diabetic mice, and then followed every 3 days with pFUS treatment until day 12 post-transplantation, we saw a significant improvement in islet function with diabetic animals re-establishing glycemic control over the course of our study (i.e., 30 days). In addition, our approach was able to enhance islet engraftment by facilitating their revascularization and reducing inflammation. This study demonstrates that our clinically translatable three-step approach is able to improve the function and viability of transplanted islets.
Generation of acoustic-Brownian noise in nuclear magnetic resonance under non-equilibrium thermal fluctuations.

We present an analytical study on generation of acoustic-Brownian noise in nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) induced as a result of thermal fluctuations of the magnetic moments under non-equilibrium thermal interactions which has not been explored independent of Nyquist–Johnson noise until now. The mechanism of physical coupling between non-equilibrium thermal fluctuations and magnetic moments is illustrated using Lighthill’s formulation on suspension dynamics. We discover that unlike Nyquist–Johnson noise which has a uniform spectral density across a range of frequencies, the spectral dependence of acoustic-Brownian noise decreases with an increase in frequency and resembles Brownian noise associated with a particle in a potential well. The results have applications in the field of image enhancement algorithm as well as noise reduction instrumentation in NMR systems.
mTOR inhibition acts as an unexpected checkpoint in p53-mediated tumor suppression.

Here, we showed that the acetylation-defective p53-4KR mice, lacking the ability of cell cycle arrest, senescence, apoptosis, and ferroptosis, were tumor prone but failed to develop early-onset tumors. By identifying a novel p53 acetylation site at lysine K136, we found that simultaneous mutations at all five acetylation sites (p53-5KR) diminished its remaining tumor suppression function. Moreover, the embryonic lethality caused by the deficiency of mdm2 was fully rescued in the background of p535KR/5KR , but not p534KR/4KR background. p53-4KR retained the ability to suppress mTOR function but this activity was abolished in p53-5KR cells. Notably, the early-onset tumor formation observed in p535KR/5KR and p53-null mice was suppressed upon the treatment of the mTOR inhibitor. These results suggest that p53-mediated mTOR regulation plays an important role in both embryonic development and tumor suppression, independent of cell cycle arrest, senescence, apoptosis, and ferroptosis.