cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Graph covers and quadratic minimization

We formulate a new approach to understanding the behavior of the min-sum algorithm by exploiting the properties of graph covers. First, we present a new, natural characterization of scaled diagonally dominant matrices in terms of graph covers; this result motivates our approach because scaled diagonal dominance is a known sufficient condition for the convergence of min-sum in the case of quadratic minimization. We use our understanding of graph covers to characterize the periodic behavior of the min-sum algorithm on a single cycle. Lastly, we explain how to extend the single cycle results to understand the 2-periodic behavior of min-sum for general pairwise MRFs. Some of our techniques apply more broadly, and we believe that by capturing the notion of indistinguishability, graph covers represent a valuable tool for understanding the abilities and limitations of general message-passing algorithms.
Theoretical Analysis for Obtaining Physical Properties of Composite Electrodes

A theoretical analysis is presented that allows in situ measurements of the physical properties of a composite electrode, namely, the electronic conductivity, the ionic conductivity, the exchange-current density, and the double-layer capacitance. Use is made of the current-voltage responses of the composite electrode to dc and ac polarizations under three different experimental configurations. This analysis allows the physical properties to be obtained even when the various resistances in the composite (e.g., ionic, electronic, and charge-transfer) are of comparable values.
Significant efficacy enhancement of low wattage metal halide hid lamp systems by acoustically induced convection configuration

Modern metal halide high intensity discharge (HID) lamps today represent the class of light sources providing white light with the highest conversion efficiency (36-40%) at a very good colour quality (CRI = 80-95) for general lighting applications. Recent progress on producing ceramic arc tubes with very small tolerances in geometric shape allow to utilize lamp vessels as acoustic resonators. Investigations on the specific acoustic lamp spectra have revealed that the use of arc tubes with enhanced aspect ratio provide a sufficient selectivity of the acoustic modes useful for arc stabilization. However, high aspect ratio arc tube metal halide lamps show the drawback of colour separation by elemental segregation effects especially in vertical burning orientation. We have investigated new schemes of acoustic excitation by applying tuning procedures on the electrical operation power spectrum for lamp operation . By this, a long term stabilized arc straightening and plasma mixing effects can be achieved simultaneously which are counteracting to elemental segregation in any burning orientation. Excitation of a set of well defined acoustic resonances in the lamp plasma leads to stable multi-cell convection structures in the arc, which showed to be beneficial for high aspect ratio HID ceramic lamps in terms of arc stability, thermal loss and luminous efficacy. With the use of metal halide plasma gas compositions based on Na and the rare earth Ce very high electrical-to-visible efficiency of up to 50% can be achieved also for low wattage metal halide systems at 90-120 W. Lamps with warm-white colour (CCT =3000-3500K) show luminous efficacy levels up to 150 lmW-1 at a good general colour rendering index (CRI) in the range of 80-85. In combination with adequate electronic control gears based on a lean and low loss circuit topology combined with intelligent programming, new energy-saving HID systems for general lighting applications with high sustainability potential are feasible.
A PARALLEL ALGORITHM FOR SINGLE ROW ROUTING PROBLEMS

Single Row Routing problem is one of the important subproblems in the layout design of multilayer printed circuit boards. This routing technique has also been applied to routing of microwave citcuits and other routing problems. The single row routing problem has been extensively studied and several sequential algorithms have been proposed. In this paper, we present a parallel hypercube algorithm for the single row routing problem. The basis of this parallel algorithm is a new O(n2 log n) sequential algorithm based on the concept of modified cut numbers and a graph decomposition scheme. The sequential algorithm is based on generalizing the concepts underlying two existing sequential algorithms. A parallel algorithm for the hypercube architecture with N processors is then developed by combining the nice features of the sequential algorithm with an efficient allocation scheme. This results in a parallel algorithm of complexity. The experimental results show that our algorithm achieves a speed up factor that is quite close to the theoretical bound while maintaining the quality of the solutions, as compared to any existing sequential algorithm. Moreover, the algorithm produces 28% better results than any existing results.
Modular discrete optimal MIMO controller for a VCT Engine

In early computer control, only one centralized computer was responsible for executing the algorithms for a particular system. Increasingly, computer control algorithms reside inside individual system components in a distributed fashion. Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) is an appealing feature for automotive engines because it allows optimization of the cam timing over a wide range of operating conditions. In this paper, a method to distribute the discrete MIMO controller for the VCT Engine to improve the component swapping modularity of the VCT Actuator and the EGO Sensor components using network communications is presented. First a discrete LQG controller was designed then this controller was distributed to the ECU, the VCT controller and the EGO sensor controller in order to improve the component swapping modularity of the system. A control oriented pre-optimization technique, which simplifies the optimization problem and a candidate solution was devised to maximize component modularity.
Structure of Cotton Linters

The microscopic structure of cotton linters fibers is similar in many respects to that of staple (lint) cotton. There are no pronounced differences between these two types, although in general linters fibers are darker, shorter, more nearly cylindrical, and have thicker walls and narrower central canals than the staple cotton. The thin primary wall, which covers the surface of the fibers, consists largely of waxy and pectic materials. The thick secondary wall is arranged in layers. In some linters fibers this layered pattern is due to the alternation of layers of cellulose which differ in porosity and density, and in others to the alternation of layers of cellulose with layers of noncellulosic material. The width of individual layers varies roughly between 0.1 and 0.4 micron in unswollen fibers. The cellulosic layers are further subdivided into fine threadlike fibrils which make an acute angle with respect to the long axis of the fiber. The orientation of the fibrils is not the same in all layers and may ...
An integrated method to detection, data association and tracking of multiple broadband signals

The present work explores a new method of integrated detection, localization, and tracking of multiple broadband signals directly from array data, without the requirement of distinct data association. The method is based on Maximum A-Posteriori probability concepts and combines Maximum Likelihood direction finding techniques with Kalman Filter theory. Implicit data association is given by a Nonlinear Programming scheme that simplifies the solution of a constrained optimization problem. Assuming Markov Motion and random Gaussian signals and noise, diverse kinematic scenarios for both synthetic and real data sets were investigated. Full data batch, semi-sequential and fully sequential variants were developed in element space, beamspace and windowed element space. The method was found to work well down to a signal-to-noise ratio of -10 dB, and for highly dynamic scenarios. An alternating projection method was used for contact state initialization and signal enumeration.
Recruiting and Interviewing Teachers in Rural School Districts: Protocol or Potluck

Through administrator and teacher surveys and interviews, this study examined recruiting and interviewing practices of eighty-three rural school districts located in, and between, the rural Ozark Plateau and Mississippi River Delta. Survey results indicated that districts with smaller student populations were far less likely to have an identified protocol in place to recruit and interview teachers. In addition, the study found that critical issues such as student achievement and qualifications of teachers were not addressed during the recruiting or interviewing phases of the employment process. Finally, this research brought to light questionable interviewing practices leading the author to make recommendations for rural schools’ implementation of measurable interviewing protocol. Each year, a multitude of rural school districts in the United States will invest millions of dollars in the construction of new facilities. To prepare for the details of the construction, they will follow a rigid protocol of forming facilities study committees and securing the services of attorneys, architects, and bonding firms. They will spend hundreds of thousands of dollars to initiate and study this process and will spend millions in construction and maintenance over a structure’s life. They will carefully screen potential contractors to ensure that they have a history of performing quality work. These same districts will also employ thousands of teachers each year. Over the span of each of these teachers’ careers, districts will invest well over a million dollars in salary, benefits, and professional development to maintain them in the profession and make them effective instructors. Unlike the detail that will prevail in building and maintaining facilities, many, if not most rural school districts, will invest little or no time in securing or developing a plan or protocol to recruit and interview these teachers. To build new buildings, a rigid protocol is developed to create and protect the investment. To secure a district’s most important resource, its teaching staff, little more than a one-sided conversation most likely will determine who will or will not be employed. This study focuses on the recruiting and interviewing practices of eighty-three rural school districts located in, and between, the rural Ozark Plateau and Mississippi River Delta. The study also focuses on teachers who are employed by these districts and seeks to ascertain whether or not a protocol was followed in interviewing and recruiting them prior to their employment.
AUTOIMMUNITY IN HIV

Autoimmunity has been referred to as a dyslexic process of self-recognition (Katz, 1993), that is, a disturbance in the ability to communicate such that the immune system is unable to properly “read” the markers on partner cells. Such communication is essential for immune reactions against foreign antigens to occur in a normal manner as well as for tolerance to occur following self-recognition. The role of viruses in the etiopathogenesis of human autoimmune disease has long been suspected but as yet unproven. However, recent evidence suggests that viruses may be involved in the pathogenesis of Sjogren’s syndrome (Talal, 1991). If viruses do in fact play a role in inducing autoimmune disease, the mechanism(s) involved remain to be elucidated. In particular, it is not clear whether virus-induced autoimmunity is the result of a normal antiviral immune response that subsequently cross-reacts with self-antigens or whether viruses actually induce abnormal communication within the immune system such that self-antigens are misread as foreign.
Power system applications of trajectory sensitivities

Trajectory sensitivities complement time domain simulation in the analysis of large disturbance dynamic behaviour of power systems. They are formed by linearization around a nonlinear, and possibly non-smooth, trajectory. The influence of parameter variations on large disturbance behaviour can be estimated (to first order) from these sensitivities. Large (small) sensitivities indicate that a parameter has a significant (negligible) effect on behaviour. These insights are helpful in analysing the underlying influences on system dynamics, and for assessing the significance of parameter uncertainty. Further, trajectory sensitivities provide gradient information for applications such as parameter estimation, boundary value problems, border-collision bifurcations, and optimal control.
MiNT: a miniaturized network testbed for mobile wireless research

Most mobile wireless networking research today relies on simulations. However, fidelity of simulation results has always been a concern, especially when the protocols being studied are affected by the propagation and interference characteristics of the radio channels. Inherent difficulty in faithfully modeling the wireless channel characteristics has encouraged several researchers to build wireless network testbeds. A full-fledged wireless testbed is spread over a large physical space because of the wide coverage area of radio signals. This makes a large-scale testbed difficult and expensive to set up, configure, and manage. This paper describes a miniaturized 802.11b-based, multi-hop wireless network testbed called MiNT. MiNT occupies a significantly small space, and dramatically reduces the efforts required in setting up a multi-hop wireless network used for wireless application/protocol testing and evaluation. MiNT is also a hybrid simulation platform that can execute ns-2 simulation scripts with the link, MAC and physical layer in the simulator replaced by real hardware. We demonstrate the fidelity of MiNT by comparing experimental results on it with similar experiments conducted on a non-miniaturized testbed. We also compare the results of experiments conducted using hybrid simulation on MiNT with those obtained using pure simulation. Finally, using a case study we show the usefulness of MiNT in wireless application testing and evaluation.
Treatment, Behavioral, and Psychosocial Components of Cardiovascular Disease Risk Among Survivors of Childhood and Young Adult Cancer

The incidence of childhood, adolescent, and young adult (AYA) cancers have been increasing since 1975.[1][1] In 2014, an estimated 10 450 and 5330 new cancers will be diagnosed among children aged birth–14 and adolescents aged 15 to 19 years old, respectively.[2][2] For young adults aged 20 to 34
Lithium treatment of acute mania in adolescents: a large open trial.

ABSTRACT Objective To examine initial response to treatment in a large sample of acutely manic bipolar I adolescents and to examine potential predictors of nonresponse, such as the presence of prominent depressive features, psychosis, or psychiatric comorbidity. Method Adolescents, 12 to 18 years of age, with an acute manic episode were treated with open lithium. Response was defined as a decline in Young Mania Rating Scale total score of ≥33% and a rating of “much improved” or “very much improved” on the Clinical Global Impressions Improvement item at week 4. Remission of mania was defined as a Young Mania Rating Scale score of ≤6. Axis I diagnoses were assessed using the Lifetime Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia for Adolescents. Results Of 100 subjects, 63 met response criteria and 26 achieved remission of manic symptoms at the week 4 assessment. Prominent depressive features, age at first mood episode, severity of mania, and comorbidity with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder did not distinguish responders from nonresponders. When treated with adjunctive antipsychotic medication, subjects with psychotic features at baseline responded as well as subjects without psychosis. Conclusions In this largest systematic treatment trial of acutely manic adolescents to date, lithium appears effective for acute stabilization of symptoms. Controlled treatment studies in adolescents with acute mania are needed.
Interdomain dynamic wavelength routing in the next-generation translucent optical Internet

Feature Issue on Next-Generation WDM Network Design and Routing (WDMN). Future home and enterprise Internet users need high-bandwidth end-to-end connections that have to be provisioned automatically and dynamically. We need to make optical-layer routing as scalable and flexible as IP routing in today's Internet to support high-end applications. We study the problem of interdomain dynamic wavelength routing based on a multidomain translucent optical network model, which allows end-to-end lightpaths to be set up not only across multiple routing domains but also through two network layers: the optical layer and the regeneration layer. In this model, a lightpath can traverse the domain boundary either through optical bypass (OOO) or through optical-electrical-optical regeneration (OEO). We propose an interdomain dynamic wavelength-routing scheme with modest computational complexity to address the problem from an algorithmic perspective. Our experimental results show that the proposed interdomain dynamic wavelength-routing scheme can (a) flexibly incorporate various cost metrics and local (or intradomain) routing schemes into a uniform interdomain routing framework, (b) effectively set up end-to-end lightpaths in a multidomain translucent network, and (c) efficiently use both optical- and regeneration-layer resources.
Combined continuous ultra low dose rate irradiation and radiofrequency hyperthermia in the C3H mouse.

Abstract Intradermally inoculated RIF tumors and normal skin of male C3H mice were implanted with variable activities of Iodine 125 seeds or dummy seeds enclosed in Vicryl sutures, and subjected to 0, 1, 2 or 3 local radiofrequency heat treatments for 30 minutes. Each treatment raised the tumor volume to 44°C. Gastrointestinal toxicity (assessed by weight change), skin reaction, tumor growth delay, and tumor cure were assessed. Neither radiofrequency treatment alone or continuous ultra low dose rate irradiation up to 16,000 rad over 180 days alone was successful in curing these tumors; however, combined modality treatments employing doses as low as 8,000 rad over 180 days plus two radiofrequency treatments did effect cures. Gastrointestinal toxicity was best correlated with hyperthermia treatments, while skin reactions secondary to hyperthermia were prolonged by continuous ultra low dose rate irradiation. Implications for clinical usage are discussed.
Model-integrated development of complex applications

Many large distributed applications are tightly integrated with their physical environments and must be adapted when their environment changes. Typically, software development methodologies do not place a large emphasis on modeling the system's environment, and hence environmental changes may lead to significant discrepancies in the software. The authors argue that (1) the modeling of the environment should be an integral part of the process, and (2) to support software evolution, wherever possible, the software should be automatically generated. They present a model-integrated development approach that is capable of supporting cost effective system evolution in accordance with changes in the system's environment. The approach is supported by a "meta-architecture" that provides a framework for building complex software systems using COTS and custom developed software components. This framework has been successfully used in various projects. One of these projects, a site production flow visualization system for a large manufacturing operation, will be analyzed in detail. First, they show how the model-integrated process can be generalized and used to build families of model-integrated tools that support the development of specific systems. Next they describe how the generic architecture was customized for the particular domain and discuss how specific components were implemented and present a detailed experience report (both from developers and end-users).
Laboratory Assays Evaluate the Influence of Physical Guidelines on Subterranean Termite (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae) Tunneling, Bait Discovery, and Consumption

Laboratory assays were conducted to determine whether physical guidelines could direct subterranean termite foraging behavior. Several materials (wood, plastics, and wood thermoplastic composites) were evaluated for their potential to serve as termite guidelines. Termite tunneling along the different types of guidelines was measured. The proportion of baits discovered when connected by a guideline was compared with the proportion of unconnected baits discovered. Termite consumption of baits also was quantified. Assay results indicated that the termites did not respond to all guideline materials in the same way. Termites built significantly longer tunnels along wood guidelines than they did along any of the plastic guidelines tested. However, tunnel length along the wood and the wood thermoplastic composites was not significantly different. The probability of two baits being discovered when they were connected by wood guidelines was significantly greater than when the baits were connected by plastic guidelines or left unconnected (no guideline). Pairs of baits connected by wood thermoplastic composites were also significantly more likely to be discovered than unconnected baits. Bait consumption was not enhanced by the presence of the guidelines. It is likely that guidelines made of wood competed with the baits as a termite food resource.
The carbonate content in high-temperature apatite; an analytical method applied to apatite from the Jacupiranga alkaline complex

We present a method to measure carbonate content of apatite that uses infrared spectroscopy, The method was calibrated against the amount of C02 released by reaction of apatite with phosphoric acid and may be used to study apatite with C02 content below I wt%. We have applied the method to apatite from carbonatite (>:::0.3-0.4 wt% C02) and metasomatic (>:::0.6-1.0 wt% C02) and alkaline silicate «0.3 wt% C02) rocks from the Jacupiranga alkaline complex. The results show that higher concentration of carbonate was found in apatite related to metasomatic processes and, in particular, to metasomatism related to the intrusion of carbonatite from J acupiranga. Major and trace elements of the analyzed apatites do not show a simple substitution mechanism that would explain the presence of carbonate in the apatite structure. In a series of exploratory laboratory experiments in which apatite was synthesized under high temperature and pressure, no clear relationship was observed between the carbonate content of the synthetic apatite and the total C content in the coexisting fluid (molecular C02 or carbonate ions in solution). However, even though these experiments were not conclusive, they suggest that apatite coexisting with carbonate ions in solution has a C02 content above 0.3 wt%, whereas apatite coexisting with molecular C02 has a C02 content <0.3 wt%. These results indicate that the C02 content of apatite depends not only on total fluid C content, but also on the C speciation in the fluid.
Public Perceptions of the Lower Federal Courts

The lower federal courts decide cases every day that are essential to a democracy and yet, lower federal court judges are not accountable to the people nor are their decisions often reversed (or even reviewed) by the U.S. Supreme Court. Their decisions are not self-implementing. Hence, our confidence in these local federal courts -- to make the right decisions and to decide cases fairly -- is essential to upholding the rule of law. But, we know little about levels of confidence in these courts or knowledge about these courts. This article seeks to inform on both of those points via use of a national randomly generated survey.
Influence of macrocyclization on allosteric, juxtamembrane-derived, stapled peptide inhibitors of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR).

The hydrocarbon-stapled peptide E1S allosterically inhibits the kinase activity of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) by blocking a distant but essential protein–protein interaction: a coiled coil formed from the juxtamembrane segment (JM) of each member of the dimeric partnership.1 Macrocyclization is not required for activity: the analogous unstapled (but alkene-bearing) peptide is equipotent in cell viability, immunoblot, and bipartite display experiments to detect coiled coil formation on the cell surface.
Experimental Testing of the Quarter-Scale Rocket Chair

The rocket chair is a rocket-powered flight vehicle that launches a passenger to an altitude of a few thousand feet on a parabolic flight trajectory. A three-phase test flight program was conducted using one-eight-scale and quarter-scale models of the rocket chair to test aerodynamics, stability, and control characteristics. The aerodynamic drag coefficient was obtained for a wide range of Reynolds numbers. Additionally, an electronic pitch stability augmentation system was developed, flight tested, and evaluated for use on a full-scale rocket chair. The general flying qualities of the rocket chair have been found to be acceptable.
Breeding and Application of Indica CMS Line Bai A with Soft and Small Grains

Bai A,whose maintainer line was developed from the cross between Zhenong 8010,a soft grain indica variety,and Qiu B,a maintainer line with small grains and good grain quality,is a new indica CMS line with the characteristics of strong tillering ability,stable and complete male sterility,favorable outcrossing habits,high combining ability,low 1 000-grain-weight(14~15 g) and good grain quality.Most of the F1 hybrids from Bai A are photoperiod sensitive.Bai A and its hybrids Baiyou 1025(Bai A/Gui 1025),Baiyou 1191(Bai A/Gui 1191) were certified for commercial production by the Guangxi Crop Variety Appraisal Committee in 2007 and 2008,respectively.
Monte Carlo Simulation of Credit Loss Distribution of Portfolio

Identification for credit loss distribution of portfolio is prerequisite to measure the credit loss.The article explains the principles and methods of simulating the distribution of portfolio's credit loss with Monte Carlo method,on the basis of analysis on the theory of credit loss.Matlab is used to carry out the experimental simulation,the result of which shows the validity and practicability of the method.
Retrospective analysis of human avian influenza A (H10N8) virus infection in Jiangxi province

Objective To analyze and discuss the source and epidemic disposition of human infection with avian influenza A（H10N8）virus. Methods Epidemiological surveys were used to collect related data and RT-PCR was applied to detect the specimens collected from cases,close contacts related exposure to live poultry markets. Data were analyzed descriptively. Results Three cases were discovered by surveillance on patients with severe pneumonia,two of the three died,but one in the hospital with the course over 6 months. All the three cases had histories of exposure to live poultry or related markets. Lower respiratory tract gargle aspirate samples of 3 patients were detected by Nanchang Municipal Center for Disease Control and Prevention （CDC） and Jiangxi Provincial CDC,and the results showed the influenza 2009pdmH1,H3,H5,H7,H9 subtypes negative. Specimen of patient 1 and 2 was positive for influenza A universal primers. Specimen of patient 3 was positive for H10N8 detected by Chinese National Influenza Center. All 33 close contacts of the patients were negative for H10N8 virus. Positive rate of the total poultry environmental specimens collected from the cases exposure markets was 5.19%. No new cases were found,after the prevention and control messages were implemented. Conclusion Three cases of H10N8 avian influenza virus infection province might be associated with exposure to live poultry market in Jiangxi. Key words: Human infection with avian influenza A （H10N8） virus; Epidemiology; Retrospective analysis
Syntheses and Antibacterial Activity of N-Acylated Ciprofloxacin Derivatives Based on the Trimethyl Lock

Several N-acyl ciprofloxacin quinone derivatives based on a trimethyl lock structure were synthesized, and their in vitro antibacterial activity against a panel of clinically relevant bacteria was evaluated. A few new analogues displayed enhanced activity against Gram-positive species compared to the parent drug. Additionally, studies of 8-Cip, which was the most potent compound tested, indicate that it may act through a dual-action mechanism.
Defining the Protein:Protein Interaction Interface of FGF14:Nav1.6 Complex

The voltage-gated Na+ (Nav) channel is composed of transmembrane spanning domains and of a cytosolic C-terminal tail which regulates channel function through protein:protein interactions (PPI) with auxiliary proteins, including fibroblast growth factor 14 (FGF14), a member of the intracellular FGF (iFGF) family. In addition to binding to the Nav C-tail, FGF14 forms homodimers and previous structural studies have proposed a conserved surface common for the Nav channel and the iFGF homodimer formation. Seeking for potential differences between the FGF14:Nav1.6-C-tail complex and the FGF14:FGF14 dimer interface, we have engineered model-based amino acid residue mutations at predicted FGF14 hot-spots and begun to screen for their impact on the protein complex stability. Using the in-cell split-luciferase complementation assay to reconstitute the FGF14:Nav1.6-C-tail and the FGF14:FGF14 complex, we identified a point of divergence at the FGF14V160 residue whose mutation led to opposite effects on the relative binding affinity to the FGF14 monomer versus the Nav1.6-C-tail. Functional studies using whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiology indicated that V160 is a critical residue for FGF14 modulation of Nav1.6-mediated currents that can be abolished by Ala mutation. Initial studies using intrinsic fluorescence showed efficient interaction between purified FGF14 and the Nav1.6 C-tail. Surface plasmon resonance and isothermal titration calorimetry measurements to evaluate the role of V160 in regulating binding affinity of FGF14 to the Nav1.6 C-tail are underway. With its unique role in the regulating the FGF14 binding and function, the V160 residue is well-positioned as target site for PPI-based drug development against Nav channels.Supported by: R01MH095995 (FL) and the Gulf Coast Consortia NIGMS Grant No.1 T32 GM089657-04 (SRA).
Is individual prey selection driven by chance or choice? A case study in cougars (Puma concolor)

Many species have been increasingly recognized as an aggregate of individual dietary specialists. Previous work has emphasized the importance of individual dietary specialization in driving many ecological processes, but less is known about the relationship between individual diet and habitat use. We used data from 7 cougars and 331 predation events collected in western Colorado from 2010 to 2013 to test whether intraspecific variation in cougar (Puma concolor) diet resulted from chance encounters or from targeting particular prey species. One cougar within our study population (P06) selected for American beaver (Castor canadensis) more than expected based on availability, spent a disproportionate amount of time within beaver habitat, and exhibited reduced travel speeds when near waterways. Our results present evidence that specialist diets in predators are likely reflective of additional differences in foraging behaviors rather than random encounters with prey species (e.g., prey availability).
Ultrarelativistic heavy ion collisions: the first billion seconds

Abstract I first review the early history of the ultrarelativistic heavy ion program, starting with the 1974 Bear Mountain Workshop, and the 1983 Aurora meeting of the U.S. Nuclear Science Committtee, just one billion seconds ago, which laid out the initial science goals of an ultrarelativistic collider. The primary goal, to discover the properties of nuclear matter at the highest energy densities, included finding new states of matter – the quark-gluon plasma primarily – and to use collisions to open a new window on related problems of matter in cosmology, neutron stars, supernovae, and elsewhere. To bring out how the study of heavy ions and hot, dense matter in QCD has been fulfilling these goals, I concentrate on a few topics, the phase diagram of matter in QCD, and connections of heavy ion physics to cold atoms, cosmology, and neutron stars.
Phenotypic correction of Fanconi anemia cells in the murine bone marrow after carrier cell mediated delivery of lentiviral vector

Fanconi anemia (FA) is an autosomal-recessive disorder associated with hematopoietic failure and it is a candidate for hematopoietic stem cell (HSC)-directed gene therapy. However, the characteristically reduced HSC numbers found in FA patients, their ineffective mobilization from the marrow, and re-oxygenation damage during ex vivo manipulation have precluded clinical success using conventional in vitro approaches. We previously demonstrated that lentiviral vector (LV) particles reversibly attach to the cell surface where they gain protection from serum complement neutralization. We reasoned that cellular delivery of LV to the bone marrow niche could avoid detrimental losses during FA HSC mobilization and in vitro modification. Here, we demonstrate that a VSV-G pseudotyped lentivector, carrying the FANCC transgene, can be transmitted from carrier to bystander cells. In cell culture and transplantation models of FA, we further demonstrate that LV carrier cells migrate along SDF-1α gradients and transfer vector particles that stably integrate and phenotypically correct the characteristic DNA alkylator sensitivity in murine and human FA-deficient target bystander cells. Altogether, we demonstrate that cellular homing mechanisms can be harnessed for the functional phenotype correction in murine FA hematopoietic cells.
Development and implementation of guided, self-directed learning modules in graduate medical education

This study sought to investigate the use of interactive iBook learning modules as a guided, self-directed learning resource for trainees within an obstetrics and gynecology residency program. The implementation of an iBook learning module as a supplement to lecture was studied in comparison to teaching sessions with lecture only.
Fifty states of self-control: A U.S. statewide examination of the initiation and inhibition dimensions of self-regulation

Individual differences in self-control have been shown to reflect two underlying dimensions: initiation and inhibition. We examined the possibility that degrees of self-control might likewise be modeled at a broader social level, similar to other socio-cultural differences that operate at an individual level (e.g., collectivism). To test this notion, we used a variety of mundane behaviors measured at the level of U.S. states to create inhibitory and initiatory indices of self-control at a collective level. We show that statewide levels of initiatory and inhibitory self-control, despite being correlated with one another, exhibit unique patterns of association with a wide range of outcomes, including homicide, suicide, home foreclosures, divorce, and infidelity. This study represents one of the first attempts to model the dimensional structure of self-control at a social level and supports the utility of conceptualizing self-control as an important socio-cultural variable.
Synthesis, structural characterization, and initial anticancer activity of water soluble polyethers from hafnocene dichloride and poly(ethylene glycols)

ABSTRACTThe initial synthesis of DMSO and water-soluble hafnocene polyethers is described. The polyethers are formed through reaction of the hafnocene dichloride with various poly(ethylene glycols) employing commercially available reactants. Infrared, proton NMR, and MALDI MS results are consistent with the hafnocene-containing polyether structure. The materials are polymeric with chain lengths ranging from 1200 to 8 with moderate product yield. They exhibit good inhibition of a variety of cancer cell lines including two pancreatic cancer cell lines.
Four Datasets Derived from an Archive of Personal Homepages (1995–2009)

While data from social media are easily accessible, understanding how individuals expressed themselves on the Internet in its initial years of public availability (the mid-late 1990s) has proved difficult. In this data deposit, I describe how archival data from Geocities homepages were retrieved and processed to remove non-text data, then further refined to create separate datasets, each of which provides unique insights into modes of personal expression on the early Internet. The present paper describes four datasets, all of which were derived from a larger collection of personal websites: (1) a large corpus of raw text data from Geocities personal homepages, (2) a linguistic analysis of basic psychological properties of the same Geocities pages, using an open-source implementation of the Linguistic Inquiry Word Count (LIWC), (3) a dataset of links between homepages (suitable for network analysis), and (4) a manifest dataset summarizing the size and last update date for each file in the dataset. Data from over 378,000 Geocities pages are included. In addition to providing a detailed description of how these datasets were created, I describe how they might be utilized in future research.
Mini C-Arm Fluoroscopy: Does Its Configuration Matter for Radiation Exposure to the Surgeon?

Background: The risk of occupational radiation exposure to the surgeon associated with the use of a mini C-arm has yet to reach a wide consensus. Using a distal radius fracture surgery model, we tested the hypothesis that radiation exposure to the surgeon’s critical body parts is independent of mini C-arm configuration. Methods: An anthropomorphic mannequin (representing the upper body of a 60” male surgeon) was seated at a hand table as if operating on a volar-plated wrist Sawbone model. Thermoluminescent dosimeters measured radiation exposure to the surgeon’s eyes, thyroid, chest, hand, and groin from a mini C-arm fluoroscopy unit in 3 commonly used configurations: vertical (source above table), inverted (source below table), and horizontal (with beam parallel to table surface). The fluoroscope scanned the wrist model for 15 continuous minutes in triplicate for each orientation. Results: Radiation to the hand was significantly greatest in all mini C-arm positions compared with all other anatomic sites i...
Missing the Forest for the Trolls

Trolls are a significant feature of the patent system. They account for a large number of suits, now a majority of all patent assertions in the country and an even higher percentage in the information technology (IT) industries. They win both larger judgments and larger settlements than do “practicing entities” (“PEs”) -- those that practice patents and are not principally in the business of collecting money from others that practice them. And they do so despite complaints that trolls assert weak patents and some evidence that troll patents are more likely to lose in court.Nonetheless, we think the focus on patent trolls obscures a more complex set of challenges confronting the patent system. In this paper, we make three points. First, patent trolls are not a unitary phenomenon. We see at least three different troll business models developing, and those models have different effects on the patent system. Second, patent assertions by practicing entities can create just as many problems as assertions by patent trolls. The nature of many industries obscures some of the costs of those assertions, but that does not mean they are cost-free. In addition, practicing entities are increasingly engaging in “patent privateering,” in which product-producing companies take on many of the attributes of trolls. Put differently, while trolls exploit problems with the patent system, they are not the only ones that do so. Third, many of the problems associated with trolls are in fact problems that stem from the disaggregation of complementary patents into too many different hands. That in turn suggests that groups like Intellectual Ventures might be reducing, not worsening, these problems (though, as we will see, the overall effects are ambiguous), while “patent privateers” that spin off patents in order for others to assert them might make things worse. For this reason, patent reformers and antitrust authorities should worry less about aggregation of patent rights and more about disaggregation of those rights, sometimes accomplished by spinning them out to others.Understanding the economics of patent assertions by both trolls and practicing entities allows us to move beyond labels and the search for “bad actors,” focusing instead on aspects of the patent system itself that give rise to the problems and on specific, objectionable conduct in which both trolls and practicing entities sometimes engage. Patent trolls alone are not the problem; they are a symptom of larger problems with the patent system. Treating the symptom will not solve the problems. In a very real sense, critics have been missing the forest for the trolls. Exposing the larger problems allows us to contemplate changes in patent law that will actually tackle the underlying pathologies of the patent system and the abusive conduct they enable.
Abstract 20052: Mortality Reduction With Angiotensin Receptor Blockers in Hypertension Patients With Left Ventricular Hypertrophy

Background: Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is considered a marker of stage B heart failure according to the ACC/AHA classification. Current guidelines recommend beta-blocker (BB) therapy for treatment but randomized control trials suggest that Angiotensin Receptor Blocker (ARB) therapy may be superior. Purpose: To compare survival among cohorts of LVH patients classified according to use of BB, ARB or neither (NONE) class of medications. Methods: A retrospective analysis of hypertension patients seen in the outpatient clinics was done. LVH was defined using the most stringent electrocardiogram (ECG) criteria whereas patients with minimal and moderate voltage criteria were excluded. Using hypertension medications from the year 2009 outpatient visits notes, 869 LVH patients were classified into BB (604), ARB (115) and NONE (150) cohort groups. Cox proportional hazard models were built. Results: Survival at 5 years was 85.2% with 17 deaths and 98 censored patients, (unadjusted hazard ratio HR 0.53, p=0.03) in the ARB cohort and 75.5 % with 148 deaths, 456 censored patients (HR 0.91, p=0.61) in the BB group compared to 74.0% in the NONE cohort with 39 deaths and 111 censored patients. After adjusting for age, sex, atrial fibrillation/flutter, heart failure, chronic kidney disease (CKD), coronary artery disease (CAD), acute myocardial infarction, stroke, obesity, diabetes, sleep apnea and pulmonary hypertension, HR was 0.40, p=0.006 for ARB and HR=0.80, p=0.278 for BB compared to the NONE group. At baseline, there was no significant difference in age, sex, and the prevalence in heart failure, stroke, obesity, sleep apnea, and pulmonary hypertension in all three groups although the BB group had significantly highest prevalence of atrial fibrillation/flutter, CAD, CKD and the lowest prevalence of diabetes. Conclusion: There was a significant mortality reduction benefit to hypertension patients with ECG diagnosed LVH treated with ARB which was not seen in similar patients on BB when compared to those treated with none of both medication classes. This effect persisted even after adjusting for cardiovascular comorbidities.
Peripheral artery disease, calf skeletal muscle mitochondrial DNA copy number, and functional performance

In people without lower extremity peripheral artery disease (PAD), mitochondrial DNA copy number declines with aging, and this decline is associated with declines in mitochondrial activity and functional performance. However, whether lower extremity ischemia is associated with lower mitochondrial DNA copy number and whether mitochondrial DNA copy number is associated with the degree of functional impairment in people with PAD is unknown. In people with and without PAD, age 65 years and older, we studied associations of the ankle-brachial index (ABI) with mitochondrial DNA copy number and associations of mitochondrial DNA copy number with functional impairment. Calf muscle biopsies were obtained from 34 participants with PAD (mean age: 73.5 years (SD 6.4), mean ABI: 0.67 (SD 0.15), mean 6-minute walk distance: 1191 feet (SD 223)) and 10 controls without PAD (mean age: 73.1 years (SD 4.7), mean ABI: 1.14 (SD 0.07), mean 6-minute walk distance: 1387 feet (SD 488)). Adjusting for age and sex, lower ABI values were associated with higher mitochondrial DNA copy number, measured in relative copy number (ABI<0.60: 914, ABI 0.60-0.90: 731, ABI 0.90-1.50: 593; p trend=0.016). The association of mitochondrial DNA copy number with the 6-minute walk distance and 4-meter walking velocity differed significantly between participants with versus without PAD ( p-value for interaction=0.001 and p=0.015, respectively). The correlation coefficient between mitochondrial DNA copy number and the 6-minute walk distance was 0.653 ( p=0.056) among people without PAD and -0.254 ( p=0.154) among people with PAD and ABI < 0.90. In conclusion, lower ABI values are associated with increased mitochondrial DNA copy number. Associations of mitochondrial DNA copy number with the 6-minute walk distance and 4-meter walking velocity significantly differed between people with versus without PAD, with stronger positive associations observed in people without PAD than in people with PAD. The cross-sectional and exploratory nature of the analyses precludes conclusions regarding causal inferences. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02246660.
Time-scale sensitive sensor applications in collecting and analyzing geographic event data

Space and time are fundamental concepts in ontological studies. This research applies analytical methods to recognize time-scale of sensor applications in analyzing geographic data. Representations...
Transition from treprostinil to selexipag in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension: Case series.

Purpose Safe transition of patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) from parenteral treprostinil to oral selexipag therapy in both inpatient and outpatient settings is described. Summary There is a paucity of published data on how to safely transition patients to oral therapy in the event of complications and problems during parenteral administration of prostacyclins, which can include bloodstream infections, injection-site pain (with use of subcutaneous treprostinil), infusion pump malfunction, and dosing errors due to incorrect dose preparation. This case series describes the transition of 4 patients with World Health Organization (WHO) group I PAH (WHO functional classes II–IV) from i.v. ( n = 3) and subcutaneous ( n = 1) treprostinil infusion therapy to oral selexipag use. The transition process was completed through the use of 2 cross-titration methods (rapid and slow). A rapid approach was used in 2 cases involving inpatients, with parenteral-to-oral transition completed over 8–13 days; a slow transition method was used in 2 cases, in which outpatients completed the transition over 19–25 weeks. Adverse events during the transitions were headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and jaw pain. Conclusion Four patients with WHO group I PAH who were not candidates for continued parenteral treprostinil therapy were safely transitioned to oral selexipag in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
Frequency Accuracy Measurements for the Microwave Generator Used in the Programmable Josephson Voltage Standard at NRC

Standard frequency and time techniques are used to characterize the frequency accuracy of the commercial microwave generator used in the Programmable Josephson Voltage Standard at National Research Council Canada. Tests are also performed to verify the frequency resolution of the generator.