cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Stability and instability of nonlinear defect states in the coupled mode equations—Analytical and numerical study

Abstract Coupled backward and forward wave amplitudes of an electromagnetic field propagating in a periodic and nonlinear medium at Bragg resonance are governed by the nonlinear coupled mode equations (NLCME). This system of PDEs, similar in structure to the Dirac equations, has gap soliton solutions that travel at any speed between 0 and the speed of light. A recently considered strategy for spatial trapping or capture of gap optical soliton light pulses is based on the appropriate design of localized defects in the periodic structure. Localized defects in the periodic structure give rise to defect modes, which persist as nonlinear defect modes as the amplitude is increased. Soliton trapping is the transfer of incoming soliton energy to nonlinear defect modes. To serve as targets for such energy transfer, nonlinear defect modes must be stable. We therefore investigate the stability of nonlinear defect modes. Resonance among discrete localized modes and radiation modes plays a role in the mechanism for stability and instability, in a manner analogous to the nonlinear Schrodinger/Gross–Pitaevskii (NLS/GP) equation. However, the nature of instabilities and how energy is exchanged among modes is considerably more complicated than for NLS/GP due, in part, to a continuous spectrum of radiation modes which is unbounded above and below. In this paper we (a) establish the instability of branches of nonlinear defect states which, for vanishing amplitude, have a linearization with eigenvalues embedded within the continuous spectrum, (b) numerically compute, using Evans function, the linearized spectrum of nonlinear defect states of an interesting multiparameter family of defects, and (c) perform direct time-dependent numerical simulations in which we observe the exchange of energy among discrete and continuum modes.
Effect of Blood Spots in Table Egg Albumen on Salmonella Growth

Presence of blood spots in eggs has been correlated with a greater rate of Salmonella Enteritidis contamination. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine whether Salmonella inoculated into egg albumen with naturally occurring blood spots would survive or grow. In each of 3 trials, white shell table eggs with blood spots were collected from a commercial egg-processing plant after candling. In each trial, eggs were broken out, and approximately 4 mL of clear albumen (CLEAR) and 4 mL of bloody albumen (BLOOD) from each of 10 eggs were placed in sterile test tubes and inoculated with a nalidixic acid-resistant Salmonella Typhimurium. For inoculation, 0.1 mL of the Salmonella Typhimurium suspension (containing 7.1, 7.7, or 7.0 log cfu/mL in trials 1 to 3, respectively) was added to each tube. Tube contents were mixed and incubated at 25 degrees C for 24 h. Immediately after inoculation (0 h) and again after 24 h, 0.1 mL from each tube was plated onto Brilliant Green-Sulfa agar with 200 ppm nalidixic acid and incubated at 37 degrees C for 24 h. Results are reported as log colony-forming units per milliliter of albumen. No significant differences (P < 0.05) in mean Salmonella Typhimurium counts were found between CLEAR or BLOOD samples at 0 h (5.6 vs. 5.8, respectively), indicating that initial inoculation levels were consistent between treatments. After 24 h, CLEAR samples were slightly but significantly lower than BLOOD samples for Salmonella Typhimurium (6.5 vs. 6.8, respectively). Salmonella Typhimurium numbers increase somewhat in albumen with or without blood, but slightly greater numbers are produced in albumen with blood spots. In this experiment, blood in the albumen of table eggs contributed to the survival and growth of Salmonella Typhimurium inoculated into egg albumen.
The birth of cyberwar

Abstract Within western security discourse, the threat posed by cyberwar has risen from a barely acknowledged concern to one of the greatest challenges confronting the West and the world in only a few short years. How did this happen so quickly, and what are the consequences for how security is performatively enacted? We argue that an event that occurred in 2007 catalyzed cyberwar's actualization as a new policy object, and has continued to affect the discursive practices materializing cyberwar since 2007. After a brief genealogy of cyberwar imaginings prior to 2007, the article interrogates how the 2007 events catalyzed cyberwar's materialization, and the discursive practices that have worked performatively to stabilize and institutionalize a knowledge-power assemblage named cyberwar as a new policy object. In particular, it traces the ways in which the site and situation of cyberwar's birth have affected the emerging apparatuses of cybersecurity, how the event enabled Estonian cybersecurity specialists and political and military elites as “catalyzing agents and shimmering points” in the emerging cyberwar resonance machine, while Tallinn became elevated as a cybersecurity center of calculation, and finally how the events of 2007 have served as a precautionary baseline for the anticipatory actions through which future cyberwars are made present.
The MNCs' Role and Responsibility in Deforestation of Tropical Forests:

Deforestation of tropical forests has significant ecological ramifications. The role played by the multinational corporations (MNCs) in this unprecedented modification of the environment may have f...
Prevention of fracture healing in rats by an inhibitor of angiogenesis

Angiogenesis is considered essential to fracture healing, but its role in the healing process remains poorly understood. Angiogenesis inhibitors, which block new blood vessel formation by specifically targeting vascular cells, are currently under development for use in cancer chemotherapy, and are potentially powerful tools for defining the consequences of angiogenic impairment on fracture healing. In this study, we directly tested the effects of the angiogenesis inhibitor TNP-470 on the healing of closed femoral fractures in an established rat model system. Beginning 1 day after fracture, animals received either angiogenesis inhibitor at a therapeutically effective antitumor dose, or a weight-adjusted amount of carrier vehicle. The progress of fracture healing was assessed at weekly intervals for 21 days by radiography and histology; functional assessment was carried out at day 24 by biomechanical testing. By all three criteria, treatment with the angiogenesis inhibitor completely prevented fracture healing. Formation of both callus and periosteal woven bone were suppressed, indicating that both the intramembranous and endochondral pathways of osteogenesis were affected. The resulting tissue resembled "atrophic nonunions" often seen clinically in cases of failed fracture healing, but rarely achieved in animal models. These results show that angiogenesis is essential to very early stages of fracture healing, and suggest this model system may be useful for understanding the mechanisms underlying fracture nonunions due to vascular impairment. Finally, the data raise the possibility that impairment of fracture healing may be an adverse effect of clinical treatments with antiangiogenic drugs.
Epitaxial Growth of Si l-x Ge x /Si Heterostructures by Limited Reaction Processing for Minority Carrier Device Applications

In an effort to extend the performance limits of semiconductors, devices based on heterojunctions rather than homojunctions are being investigated with great interest. Heterojunctions allow certain device design constraints to be relaxed because the charge distribution, electric field, and potential can be tailored extensively, permitting better device structures to be utilized. Silicon technology today enjoys a firm grip on a large portion of the electronics industry due in part to its superior material properties. Silicon has, among other attributes, an excellent quality native oxide, a very high thermal conductivity, mechanical strength, and it is available in large wafers with low defect densities. The prospect of a heterojunction made from silicon based technology is therefore worthy of investigation. The research discussed here concentrates on strained Si1−xGex as a possible mate for silicon to form a heterojunction pair. Other materials have been considered in the past as a heterojunction partner for Si, but cross doping and lattice mismatch problems have prevented their implementation.
Structure-Property Relationship of Blended Cotton Yarns Made from Low and High Tenacity Fibers

The tensile response of staple yams is usually determined by their structure and the mechanical properties of their constituent fibers. Yarn structure is influenced by the radial disposition of fibers along the yam length, commonly known as migration, and the packing density of the fibers in the yarn cross section. These, in turn, are affected by fiber properties, yarn factors, and the dynamics of preparatory and spinning pro cesses. Yarn structure development is further complicated when the yarn is spun from blends of different fiber types because the blending method usually profoundly influ ences the position and orientation of the fibers in the yam matrix. This investigation is concerned with the effect of fiber properties and yarn structure on the tensile properties of ring spun yarns made from a 50:50 blend of high (Pima) and low (Upland) tenacity cotton fibers spun using intimate and drawframe blending techniques. The drawframe blended yarn in this work is produced by arranging all high tenacity fib...
Methodologies for optimization of distributed algorithms and middleware

Many frameworks have been proposed which provide distributed algorithms encapsulated as middleware services to simplify application design. The developers of such algorithms are faced with two opposing forces. One is to design generic algorithms that are reusable in a large number of applications. Efficiency considerations, on the other hand, force the algorithms to be customized to specific operational contexts. This problem is often attacked by simply re-implementing all or large portions of an algorithm. The goals of this project are to (a) Develop techniques to design distributed algorithms amenable to customization, (b) Develop infrastructure to analyze applications and the target platform specifications to determine when customization can take place, (c) Develop tools to perform the necessary code transformation and compositions to carry out the identified optimizations in the algorithms. We are pursuing a number of different approaches to achieve these goals. We have developed two frameworks, FRAMES and InDiGO, which provides tools and techniques to perform optimization following two different approaches. We have performed experimental studies to demonstrate the advantages of our infrastructure. Another approach based on proof-based optimization is also being pursued. This paper highlights the results from these efforts and discuss our future work plans to apply these techniques to distributed sensor network middleware.
A role for talin in presynaptic function.

Talin, an adaptor between integrin and the actin cytoskeleton at sites of cell adhesion, was recently found to be present at neuronal synapses, where its function remains unknown. Talin interacts with phosphatidylinositol-(4)-phosphate 5-kinase type Iγ, the major phosphatidylinositol-(4,5)-bisphosphate [PI(4,5)P2]–synthesizing enzyme in brain. To gain insight into the synaptic role of talin, we microinjected into the large lamprey axons reagents that compete the talin–PIP kinase interaction and then examined their effects on synaptic structure. A dramatic decrease of synaptic actin and an impairment of clathrin-mediated synaptic vesicle endocytosis were observed. The endocytic defect included an accumulation of clathrin-coated pits with wide necks, as previously observed after perturbing actin at these synapses. Thus, the interaction of PIP kinase with talin in presynaptic compartments provides a mechanism to coordinate PI(4,5)P2 synthesis, actin dynamics, and endocytosis, and further supports a functional link between actin and clathrin-mediated endocytosis.
Validation of a nutrition risk screening tool for children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis ages 2-20 years.

Objectives: According to the 2002 Cystic Fibrosis (CF) Foundation nutrition consensus report, children with CF should grow normally. Cross-sectional data from the foundation’s patient registry concluded that a body mass index at or greater than the 50th percentile is associated with better lung function. A consistent, evidence-based screening process can identify those individuals with CF having nutrition risk factors associated with a decrease in pulmonary function, target early intervention, and prevent further decline. A tool for screening nutrition risk is described to identify those children with CF who would benefit from more extensive nutrition intervention. Methods: The proposed screening tool is a risk-based classification system with 3 categories: weight gain, height velocity, and body mass index. The CF Foundation recommendations regarding these parameters are incorporated, with risk points assigned when minimum body mass index, weight gain, and/or height gain standards are unmet. Results: An interrater measure of agreement determined a satisfactory level of reliability (k ¼ 0.85). Patient records (n ¼ 85) were reviewed to determine nutrition status category (no risk or at risk) of this tool compared with the CF Foundation 2002 Nutrition Consensus, yielding sensitivity and specificity at 84% and 75%, respectively. A second comparison was made with combined, independent nutrition risk factors not included in the screening tool. The sensitivity and specificity of the screening tool compared with the combined risk factors were 86% and 78%, respectively. Conclusions: This tool for screening nutrition risk for CF is reliable and valid, with consistent, reproducible results, free from subject or observer bias. JPGN 46:438–446, 2008.
Long-term effects of chromium and lead upon the activity of soil microbial communities

The inhibitory effects of heavy metals upon microbial populations and the factors limiting microbial activity and growth were determined in soils that had been contaminated with lead (Pb) or chromium (Cr) for more than 40 years. Total Cr and Pb concentrations were 260,000 and 10,000 mg kg −1 soil in Cr- and Pb-contaminated soils, respectively. The tolerance of bacteria extracted from soil particles to Pb or Cr was assayed by measuring the incorporation of 3 H -leucine into macromolecules at a series of CrO4 2− or Pb 2+ concentrations. IC50 (heavy-metal concentration giving 50% reduction of microbial 3 H -leucine incorporation compared to the control) for the two metals was similar in the two soils, despite their differences in metal contamination; the IC50 values were 4 and 0.02 mM for CrO4 2− and Pb 2+ , respectively. Stimulation of microbial activity and biomass by organic C was measured in microcosms over 56 days. The adverse effects of Cr and Pb were characterized in terms of the ratio of microbial biomass C to soil organic C, basal respiration per unit microbial biomass (qCO2), and the ratio of substrate-responsive respiration to microbial biomass C (substrate-responsive qCO2). Ratios of microbial biomass C to soil organic C were small: 0.42% in Cr-contaminated soil and 0.36% in Pb-contaminated soil. Values of qCO2 and substrate-responsive qCO2 were significantly higher in Pb- than in Cr-contaminated soils ( P< 0.01). The microcosm results indicate that Cr and Pb decreased microbial activities and led to the accumulation of soil organic C, and that Pb posed greater stress to soil microbes than Cr. © 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
Optimized glucuronidation of dual pharmacology β-2 agonists/M3 antagonists for the treatment of COPD

‘Inhalation by design’ concepts were developed to create novel dual pharmacology β-2 agonists-M3 antagonists, for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder. A key feature of this work is the combination of balanced potency and pharmacological duration with optimised glucuronidation through the incorporation of metabolically vulnerable phenols.
Interaction of human HSP22 (HSPB8) with other small heat shock proteins

Mammalian small heat shock proteins (sHSP) are abundant in muscles and are implicated in both muscle function and myopathies. Recently a new sHSP, HSP22 (HSPB8, H11), was identified in the human heart by its interaction with HSP27 (HSPB1). Using phylogenetic analysis we show that HSP22 is a true member of the sHSP superfamily. sHSPs interact with each other and form homo- and hetero-oligomeric complexes. The function of these complexes is poorly understood. Using gel filtration HPLC, the yeast two-hybrid method, immunoprecipitation, cross-linking, and fluorescence resonance energy transfer microscopy, we report that (i) HSP22 forms high molecular mass complexes in the heart, (ii) HSP22 interacts with itself, cvHSP (HSPB7), MKBP (HSPB2) and HSP27, and (iii) HSP22 has two binding domains (N- and C-terminal) that are specific for different binding partners. HSP22 homo-dimers are formed through N-N and N-C interactions, and HSP22-cvHSP hetero-dimers through C-C interaction. HSP22-MKBP and HSP22-HSP27 hetero-dimers involve the N and C termini of HSP22 and HSP27, respectively, but appear to require full-length protein as a binding partner.
Gender Differences in Functional Health: Latent Curve Analysis Assessing Differential Exposure

Objectives To examine gender difference in trajectories of functional limitations among middle-aged and older adults using a comprehensive set of predictors and method not previously used to examine this topic. Method Two-part latent curve models were used to analyze data from the Health and Retirement Study. These models differentiate the occurrence of limitations from the number of limitations at both baseline and over time. Results Females had 3.70 times greater odds of having any limitations and had 28% more limitations at baseline compared with males, but there was no gender difference in the onset of limitations over time or in the number of limitations over time. Differences in employment status, income, wealth, depressive symptoms, arthritis, cancer, and eyesight partially explained the gender gap. Discussion Females are disadvantaged in terms of occurrence and number of limitations at baseline but the gender gap remains stable over time, suggesting differences occur before late-middle and old age. Females' lack of full-time employment, and lower levels of income and wealth translate into worse functional health. It is important to improve the socioeconomic status of females while also addressing the health conditions that contribute to functional limitations for males and females.
Zero latency image compression for real time logging while drilling applications

LWD (logging while drilling) has very limited bandwidth, typically 4 bit/sec. Many applications such as quantifying dip and azimuth, fault detection, borehole breakout and stress analysis require the image be available in real time. Due to the relatively large volume of data within an array measurement, such as a density, gamma, or resistively image, transmission of images in real time over limited bandwidth is a very challenging problem. Standard compression techniques require continuously accumulating a large block of data, then compressing that data. Continuous transmission of compressed data is not only a very complex problem, but also introduces a latency equivalent to the time required to accumulate the whole block of data. Two approaches discuss herein. The first approach is to compress small block of data, then apply a filter on the reconstructed data/image. The filter eliminates burst noise. The second approach is to carry out feature detection and extraction, followed by image compression for only the interval(s) of interest. This detection approach processes data in real time. It triggers on the start and end of a feature without processing any further features. This provides feature detection with zero latency. Compressing only the interval of interest provides a data compression with both higher resolution and higher compression ratio (Gamal and Phil).
A phase conjugate mirror inspired approach for building cloaking structures with left-handed materials

In this paper, we propose and examine a new cloaking method, which was inspired by the close correspondence between a phase conjugate mirror and the interface between a pair of matched right-handed material (RHM) and left-handed material (LHM) media. Using this method, we show that a symmetric conducting shell embedded in the interface junction of an isotropic RHM layer and an isotropic negative index or LHM layer can serve as a limited cloaking structure. The proposed structure presents an anomalously small scattering cross-section to an incident propagating electromagnetic (EM) field. The interior of the shell can be used to shield small objects from interrogation. We report the results of 2D finite-element-method (FEM) simulations that were performed to verify the principle, and discuss the limitations of the proposed structure.
Finite element modelling of creep deformation in fibre-reinforced ceramic composites

The tensile creep and creep-recovery behaviour of a unidirectional SiC fibre-Si3N4 matrix composite was analysed using finite element techniques. The analysis, based on the elastic and creep properties of each constituent, considered the influence of fibre-matrix bonding and processing-related residual stresses on creep and creep-recovery behaviour. Both two- and three-dimensional finite element models were used. Although both analyses predicted similar overall creep rates, three-dimensional stress analysis was required to obtain detailed information about the stress state in the vicinity of the fibre-matrix interface. The results of the analysis indicate that the tensile radial stress, which develops in the vicinity of the fibre-matrix interface after processing, rapidly decreases during the initial stages of creep. Both the predicted and experimental results for the composite show that 50% of the total creep strain which accumulated after 200 h at a stress of 200 MPa and temperature of 1200°C is recovered within 25 h of unloading.
A novel role for Lsc/p115 RhoGEF and LARG in regulating RhoA activity downstream of adhesion to fibronectin

Adhesion of cells to extracellular matrix proteins such as fibronectin initiates signaling cascades that affect cell morphology, migration and survival. Some of these signaling pathways involve the Rho family of GTPases, such as Cdc42, Rac1 and RhoA, which play a key role in regulating the organization of the cytoskeleton. Although significant advances have been made in understanding how Rho proteins control cytoskeletal architecture, less is known about the signals controlling activation of the GTPases themselves. The focus of this study was to determine which guanine nucleotide exchange factor(s) are responsible for activation of RhoA downstream of adhesion to fibronectin. Using an affinity pulldown assay for activated exchange factors, we show that the RhoA-specific exchange factors Lsc/p115 RhoGEF and LARG are activated when cells are plated onto fibronectin, but not other exchange factors such as Ect2 or Dbl. Knockdown of Lsc and LARG together significantly decreases RhoA activation and formation of stress fibers and focal adhesions downstream of fibronectin adhesion. Similarly, overexpression of a catalytically inactive mutant of Lsc/p115 RhoGEF inhibits RhoA activity and formation of stress fibers and focal adhesions on fibronectin. These data establish a previously uncharacterized role for the exchange factors Lsc/p115 RhoGEF and LARG in linking fibronectin signals to downstream RhoA activation.
SHIFTS IN SOUTHERN WISCONSIN FOREST CANOPY AND UNDERSTORY RICHNESS, COMPOSITION, AND HETEROGENEITY

We resurveyed the under- and overstory species composition of 94 upland forest stands in southern Wisconsin in 2002-2004 to assess shifts in canopy and understory richness, composition, and heterogeneity relative to the original surveys in 1949-1950. The canopy has shifted from mostly oaks (Quercus spp.) toward more mesic and shade-tolerant trees (primarily Acer spp.). Oak-dominated early-successional stands and those on coarse, nutrient-poor soils changed the most in canopy composition. Understories at most sites (80%) lost native species, with mean species density declining 25% at the 1-m2 scale and 23.1% at the 20-m2 scale. Woody species have increased 15% relative to herbaceous species in the understory despite declining in absolute abundance. Initial canopy composition, particularly the abundance of red oaks (Quercus rubra and Q. velutina), predicted understory changes better than the changes observed in the overstory. Overall rates of native species loss were greater in later-successional stands, a pattern driven by differential immigration rather than differential extirpation. However, understory species initially found in early-successional habitats declined the most, particularly remnant savanna taxa with narrow or thick leaves. These losses have yet to be offset by compensating increases in native shade-adapted species. Exotic species have proliferated in prevalence (from 13 to 76 stands) and relative abundance (from 1.2% to 8.4%), but these increases appear unrelated to the declines in native species richness and heterogeneity observed. Although canopy succession has clearly influenced shifts in understory composition and diversity, the magnitude of native species declines and failure to recruit more shade-adapted species suggest that other factors now act to limit the richness, heterogeneity, and composition of these communities.
D-factor: a quantitative model of application slow-down in multi-resource shared systems

Scheduling multiple jobs onto a platform enhances system utilization by sharing resources. The benefits from higher resource utilization include reduced cost to construct, operate, and maintain a system, which often include energy consumption. Maximizing these benefits, while satisfying performance limits, comes at a price -- resource contention among jobs increases job completion time. In this paper, we analyze slow-downs of jobs due to contention for multiple resources in a system; referred to as dilation factor. We observe that multiple-resource contention creates non-linear dilation factors of jobs. From this observation, we establish a general quantitative model for dilation factors of jobs in multi-resource systems. A job is characterized by a vector-valued loading statistics and dilation factors of a job set are given by a quadratic function of their loading vectors. We demonstrate how to systematically characterize a job, maintain the data structure to calculate the dilation factor (loading matrix), and calculate the dilation factor of each job. We validated the accuracy of the model with multiple processes running on a native Linux server, virtualized servers, and with multiple MapReduce workloads co-scheduled in a cluster. Evaluation with measured data shows that the D-factor model has an error margin of less than 16%. We also show that the model can be integrated with an existing on-line scheduler to minimize the makespan of workloads.
EFFECTS OF HYDROLOGIC CONNECTIVITY ON WATER CHEMISTRY, SOILS, AND VEGETATION STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION IN AN INTERMONTANE DEPRESSIONAL WETLAND LANDSCAPE

Historically, depressional wetlands have been viewed as small, closed basins without a naturally integrated inter-wetland surface drainage system. In this view, landscape-level connectivity is limited to surface water as overland flow. Contrasting with this view, conceptual prairie pothole ground-water models have relied on ground-water connectivity to explain inter-wetland differences in salinity, duration of inundation, and vegetation structure. To help clarify this contrast, we compared differences in hydrology, ground-water connectivity, near-surface soil moisture, geomorphology, water chemistry, and vegetation community structure and productivity for a suite of depressional wetlands in an intermontane prairie of western Montana. We compared depressional wetlands with and without temporary (< 4 wk) surface-water and/or soil-water connections. Connected wetlands had significantly smaller catchments, but stored more water, stored water longer, and had higher specific conductance than did isolated wetlands. Connected wetlands also had higher net primary productivity and a different plant community composition than did isolated wetlands. Comparisons of study site hydrology, water chemistry, and soil development found strong evidence for no ground-water exchange among any of the wetlands. The absence of ground water connection among these intermontane depressional wetlands emphasizes the importance of temporary surface-water and soil-water connections in depressional wetland ecology, as well as the need to understand the landscape scale variation of dissolved solutes and the distribution, abundance, and productivity of wetland plants among depressional wetlands and across wetland landscapes.
Properties of Alpine Soils Associated with Well-Developed Sorted Polygons in the Uinta Mountains, Utah, U.S.A

ABSTRACT Twelve profiles of alpine soils associated with well-developed, but currently inactive, sorted polygons were investigated in the Uinta Mountains of northeastern Utah. The summit upland in the Uintas does not appear to have been glaciated, and these soils are considerably older than those located in lower elevation glacial valleys. Profiles of soils from the polygon centers reveal a dark, organic-rich surface horizon developed in loamy loess overlying a series of redder, sandy B horizons locally exhibiting strongly developed platey structure and pockets of coarser sediment. Irregular and broken horizons at depth reflect extensive cryoturbation during episodes when the sorted polygons are active. Overall morphology and profile quantities of weathering products in these soils are similar to those previously reported for alpine tundra soils in the Uintas; however, the cryoturbated horizons are limited to soils in the patterned ground. A developmental model for these soils emphasizes the combined role...
Exploring sources of variation in human behavioral data: Towards automatic audio-visual emotion recognition

My PhD work aims at developing computational methodologies for automatic emotion recognition from audiovisual behavioral data. A main challenge in automatic emotion recognition is that human behavioral data are highly complex, due to multiple sources that vary and modulate behaviors. My goal is to provide computational frameworks for understanding and controlling for multiple sources of variation in human behavioral data that co-occur with the production of emotion, with the aim of improving automatic emotion recognition systems [1]-[6]. In particular, my research aims at providing representation, modeling, and analysis methods for complex and time-changing behaviors in human audio-visual data by introducing temporal segmentation and time-series analysis techniques. This research contributes to the affective computing community by improving the performance of automatic emotion recognition systems and increasing the understanding of affective cues embedded within complex audio-visual data.
Immune Mechanisms in Drug-Induced Hepatotoxicity

Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is a common cause of liver disease. It accounts for approximately one-half of cases of acute liver failure and significant numbers of deaths in the United States and many other countries (1, 2, 3, 4, 5). An estimated 1000 or more drugs have been implicated in causing liver disease on more than one occasion (5). Clinically, DILI mimics all forms of liver diseases, with the liver damage varying in severity from mild and transient increases in serum aminotransferases to fulminant hepatic failure. This represents an important diagnostic and therapeutic challenge for physicians. Idiosyncratic drug toxicity refers to toxic reactions occurring in a small subset of patients; it usually cannot be predicted during preclinical or early phases of clinical trials. The occurrence of idiosyncratic drug hepatotoxicity is also a major problem in all phases of clinical drug development and the most frequent cause of postmarketing warnings and withdrawals (1, 2, 3, 4, 5). DILI is usually initiated by a toxic drug and its metabolite, followed by either immune-mediated mechanisms and/or intracellular biochemical mechanisms of hepatocytes (2, 3, 4, 5).
Na/K Pump in Inside-Out Vesicles Utilizing ATP Synthesized at the Membrane

Publisher Summary The Na/K pump in human red cells is fueled by ATP synthesized during glycolysis. In human red cells, it has been suggested that two glycolytic enzymes, glyceraldehydes-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) and phosphoglycerate kinase (PGK), bound to the red cell membrane synthesize ATP and deposit it in a membrane-associated compartment from which it is used by the Na/K pump. Active Na transport into inside-out vesicles (IOVs) is promoted by addition of the substrates for GAPDH and PGK, without added ATP. The GAPDH–PGK complex synthesizes ATP that remains associated with the red cell membrane. The membrane-associated ATP must be compartmentalized because it is inaccessible to degradation catalyzed by hexokinase. The membrane-associated ATP fuels the pump because its level is reduced by the addition of Na and this reduction is inhibited by strophanthidin.
Tangible visualization

In this paper, I propose that visualization should escape the traditional constraint of the screen and embrace the physical environment to realize more tangible interactions for manipulating digital information.
BEACH CUSPS AT POINT REYES AND DRAKES BAY BEACHES, CALIFORNIA

Beach cusps, fairly common and periodic features along many shorelines have been the focus of numerous investigations. The primary efforts have been directed toward (1) determining a causative mechanism for their formation; (2) describing qualitatively the associated water motions and sediment transport; and (3) developing a predictive relationship for their spacing. As in other problems in nearshore dynamics (e.g. rip currents), it may be that there are various valid explanations for different occurrences of beach cusps. In addition to satisfying scientific curiosity, an improved qualitative and quantitative understanding of beach cusp mechanisms would contribute substantially to swash zone dynamics and to nearshore hydrodynamics and sediment transport in general. This paper describes a series of measurements of beach cusps and associated parameters carried out at Point Reyes and Drakes Bay beaches in northern California during the summers of 1977-1979. An attempt to idealize the beach cusp topography and the resulting swash hydromechanics led to a possible relationship between beach cusp spacing and swash parameters in which the spacing is linearly related to maximum swash excursion.
Polychromatic N2 Laser-Pumped Dye Lasers

Recently, Nakashima and Sousa have reported2 a scheme for the generation of laser3 pulses consisting of several wavelengths in the visible, which are rather widely separated spectrally, but ovelap ...
Analysis of drinking water in rural area of Wugang

Objective:To provide evidence for realising the status of water quality and promoting engineering construction of secure drinking water in the countryside in Wugang city Henan province.Methods:Carrying out statistical analysis on detecting results of 57cases of water samples in 2008.Results:Of 57cases,54 are not qualified,disqualification rate is 94.7%.Among of total,28 cases turning out from factoty are not quatified,rate is 49.1%;26 cases of ending water are found,rate is 45.6%,there is on statistical significance between two groups(χ2=0.39,P0.5).Samples of disqualified phreatic water are 41 cases,rate is 93.2%;spring water is 4,rate is 100%;reservoir water is 9,rate is 100%.Significant difference is found between phreatic water and spring water group(χ2=10.78,P0.005)and between phreatic water and reservoir water group(χ2=10.78,P0.005).but there is no statistical difference between diffenrent two groups of methods of water treatment(χ2=1.82,P0.25).Conclusion:Water quality in the countryside in Wugang city is bad,relative government departments should pay special attention to management and steriling of water to ensure the security of the drinking water.
A Multistep Model for the Pathogenesis and Evolution of PNH

Although paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) has been recognized as an intriguing clinical entity for over a century, the past 10–15 years have witnessed remarkable progress toward a better understanding of the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of this mysterious blood disorder. After multiple proteins were found to be absent from the surface of PNH cells, it was recognized that each utilized a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchor for cell surface attachment. Elucidation of the biochemical abnormalities in PNH cells identified a specific defective step in GPI anchor bioassembly, which eventually led to the cloning of the PIG-A gene. All patients with PNH reported to date have acquired (non-germline) PIG-A gene mutations.
Building Functional Communities: Concepts for Reframing Social and Fiscal Policy

Given the shrinkage of social service resources in public organizations, a variety of fiscal options to manage costs must be developed to address operational efficiencies and, more importantly, to protect from negatively impacting institutional integrity. The paper which follows addresses a continuum of alternatives which could be considered when examining resource sharing policy options which can build well-functioning communities to the benefit of both the public and private sectors. Data were collected using a case study approach employing focus interviews with school district CEO's, CFO's, business officials and other key public and private sector administrators in thirty-one New York State commmunities and two suburban counties within 25 miles of New York City over a period of three years. An exploratory analysis was used to test a conceptual framework that draws together the literature concerning the types and purposes of interdistrict cooperation. The studies findings concerning cooperative arrangements among organizations led to several conclusions and caveats concerning building functional communities: If sharing is to be supported and developed as a strategy for organizational improvement, organizational leaders will have to be aware of the reasons sharing arrangements are made and the tensions that destroy agreements. If sharing agreements are to be promoted, particularly in the specialized areas that seem to be appropriate for sharing resources, more attention will be needed in identifying likely incentives for mid-level managers, administrators and support staff involved with planning and operating such programs. If sharing is to take place, a common set of data need to be collected and analyzed. If sharing is to get started, pilot programs need to be developed that bring diverse organizations together on a regular basis with a specific sharing agenda.
In reference to "Development, implementation, and impact of an automated early warning and response system for sepsis".

We read with interest the study published by Umscheid, et al1 which concluded that their automated sepsis recognition system lead to an increase in early treatment delivery. We were disappointed but not surprised by the positive predictive value of 26%, which matches similar studies that utilize SIRS (Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome) criteria for early detection of sepsis.2,3 Originally, the SIRS criteria were developed as a bedside diagnostic tool for rapid identification of septic patients.4 They have also been criticized, by their proponents no less, to be overly sensitive and non-specific.5 However, with increasing use of electronic health records, we have the capability to not only discover more specific diagnostic parameters but also to develop more complex scoring systems. In fact, our group has previously compared various early warning scores and their accuracy in detecting similar outcomes for hospitalized patients. We found that aggregate weighted early warning scores were more accurate than other types of scoring systems in detecting cardiac arrest, ICU transfer, mortality and the composite outcome.6 In an era where providers are already suffering from alarm fatigue and information overload, we should maximize the potential of electronic health systems by developing sepsis detection scores with predictive abilities that surpass the SIRS criteria.
Avocado Consumption Increases Macular Pigment Density in Older Adults: A Randomized, Controlled Trial

Lutein is selectively incorporated into the macula and brain. Lutein levels in the macula (macular pigment; MP) and the brain are related to better cognition. MP density (MPD) is a biomarker of brain lutein. Avocados are a bioavailable source of lutein. This study tests the effects of the intake of avocado on cognition. This was a six-month, randomized, controlled trial. Healthy subjects consumed one avocado (n = 20, 0.5 mg/day lutein, AV) vs. one potato or one cup of chickpeas (n = 20, 0 mg/day lutein, C). Serum lutein, MPD, and cognition were assessed at zero, three, and six months. Primary analyses were conducted according to intent-to-treat principles, with repeated-measures analysis. At six months, AV increased serum lutein levels by 25% from baseline (p = 0.001). C increased by 15% (p = 0.030). At six months, there was an increase in MPD from baseline in AV (p = 0.001) and no increase in C. For both groups, there was an improvement in memory and spatial working memory (p = 0.001; p = 0.032, respectively). For AV only there was improved sustained attention (p = 0.033), and the MPD increase was related to improved working memory and efficiency in approaching a problem (p = 0.036). Dietary recommendations including avocados may be an effective strategy for cognitive health.
Long-Term Outcomes of Patent Foramen Ovale Closure or Medical Therapy after Stroke

BackgroundWhether closure of a patent foramen ovale reduces the risk of recurrence of ischemic stroke in patients who have had a cryptogenic ischemic stroke is unknown. MethodsIn a multicenter, randomized, open-label trial, with blinded adjudication of end-point events, we randomly assigned patients 18 to 60 years of age who had a patent foramen ovale (PFO) and had had a cryptogenic ischemic stroke to undergo closure of the PFO (PFO closure group) or to receive medical therapy alone (aspirin, warfarin, clopidogrel, or aspirin combined with extended-release dipyridamole; medical-therapy group). The primary efficacy end point was a composite of recurrent nonfatal ischemic stroke, fatal ischemic stroke, or early death after randomization. The results of the analysis of the primary outcome from the original trial period have been reported previously; the current analysis of data from the extended follow-up period was considered to be exploratory. ResultsWe enrolled 980 patients (mean age, 45.9 years) at 69 si...
Primary systemic therapy in resectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma using mFOLFIRINOX: A pilot study.

Background and Objectives Surgery followed by gemcitabine and/or a fluoropyrimidine is standard therapy for resectable PDAC. mFOLFIRINOX (oxaliplatin 85 mg/m2, irinotecan 180 mg/m2, leucovorin 400 mg/m2 Day 1, 5-FU 2400 mg/m2 × 48 h IV, peg-filgrastim 6 mg SQ day 3, every 14 days) has substantial activity in metastatic PDAC. We wished to determine the tolerability/efficacy of peri-operative mFOLFIRINOX in resectable PDAC. Methods Patients with resectable PDAC (ECOG PS 0/1) received four cycles of mFOLFIRINOX pre- and post-surgery. The primary endpoint was completion of preoperative chemotherapy plus resection. Secondary endpoints included completion of all therapy, R0 resection, treatment related toxicity, PFS, and OS. Results Twenty-one patients enrolled: median age 62 (47-78); 20/21 (95%) completed four cycles of preoperative mFOLFIRINOX; response by RECIST was 1 CR, 3 PR, 16 SD; 17/21 (81%) completed resection, 16/21 (76%) R0; 14/21 (66%) completed four cycles of postoperative mFOLFIRINOX. Grade 3 and 4 toxicity occurred in 23% and 14% patients pre-operatively, 26% and 6.0% post-operatively. Nine patients are alive with median follow-up of 27.7 (3.1-47.1) months. Conclusions PST using mFOLFIRINOX in resectable PDAC is feasible and tolerable. R0 resection rate is high and survival promising, requiring longer follow-up and larger studies for definitive assessment.
dioxin and dibenzofruran contamination in Chlornail and Carbazole Violet

Abstract Four samples of Chloranil and one sample of Carbazole Violet were analyzed for polychlorinated dibenzo- p -dioxins and dibenzofurans. Part per billion and part per million levels of hepta- and octachlorinated dioxins and furans were found in the samples. Hexachlorinated dioxins and furans were also found in some of the samples. These levels are considered minimum levels since the extraction and analytical procedures were not optimized for these samples containing such extremely high concentrations.
Alcohol use and alcohol/marijuana use during the most recent sexual experience differentially predict characteristics of the sexual experience among sexually active young adult drinkers.

Abstract Introduction Few studies have examined associations between using alcohol only and using both alcohol and marijuana with sexual behavior on specific occasions. The current study examined alcohol and marijuana use during the most recent sexual experience in association with relationship characteristics, psychological issues, and condom use. Methods Young adult drinkers aged 18–25 who reported not using a condom during sex in the past month were recruited nationally. An analytic subsample (N = 378) was identified based on substance use during the most recent sexual experience [53% female, 70% Caucasian; mean age = 22.42 years ( SD = 1.90)]. Using logistic regression, two dummy codes compared the alcohol use only group (n = 197) and the both alcohol and marijuana group (n = 95) to the group who used neither substance (n = 86). Participant sex, drinking frequency, and number of sexual partners were included as covariates. Results The alcohol only group and the both alcohol and marijuana group had greater odds of being with a casual acquaintance and loss of respect compared to the group who used neither substance. The alcohol only group had greater odds of being with someone they just met and embarrassment compared to the group who used neither substance. No associations were found for condom use or emotional difficulties. Conclusions Preventative interventions may need to address both alcohol and marijuana to more effectively reduce risky behaviors.
An Assessment of Cotrans Student Performance

An evaluation of Cotrans students at New York Medical College (NYMC) indicated that while their NBME Part I scores in Psychiatry were significantly lower than the performance of NYMC’s own students and lower than the national mean, their performance in their psychiatric clinical clerkships, based on faculty evaluations, were indistinguishable from NYMC students; their performance in the NBME Part II in Psychiatry while lower than NYMC’s own students was above the national mean. Although there has been concern about the capabilities and background of Cotrans students, this evaluation suggests that with a good didactic and clinical training program Cotrans students can attain a level of performance equal to that of medical students educated entirely in this country.
At the Heart? Identity Centrality and Member Understanding of Corporate Social Responsibility

When the phrase Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is used, a variety of thoughts come to mind, ranging from a narrowly prescribed neoclassical view of organizations as generating profits for sh...