cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Daily life events and mood.

In this chapter we will report the results of a series of studies in which life experiences and mood were recorded daily in prospective investigations. The studies to be described were not originally designed to address a specific set of questions pertaining to events and mood; rather, they were exploring the relationship between daily events and physical symptoms. Nonetheless, the prospective methods used in the data collection and the particular techniques for assessing daily mood gave us a unique opportunity to explore a variety of commonsense questions about mood as well as the psychological stress model of illness. As the reader will see in the forthcoming pages, some of the assumptions lay people and researchers have had about mood were not borne out by the data.
The vulnerability of residential window glass to lightweight windborne debris

This paper presents the results of an experimental investigation of the momentum threshold required to damage residential window glazing when impacted by roof shingles and wooden dowels. Shingles are among the most common sources of debris in hurricane winds, and they have been observed to be a major contributor to the breach of windows. Wooden dowels represent lightweight vegetation type windborne debris (e.g., twigs, branches). Custom launching apparatuses were constructed to achieve controllable and repeatable flight modes and speeds for the debris. More than 600 annealed residential window glass specimens were tested to quantify the momentum threshold and damage accumulation. The shingle impact experiments were conducted using varying shingle sizes, flight modes, impact angles, shingle age, impact speeds, glass specimen thicknesses, dimensions, and edge boundary conditions. The wooden dowel impact experiments include varying wooden dowel diameters and angles of impact. Vulnerability curves are provided for unprotected window glass as a function of momentum, debris type, flight mode, and angle of impact.
Notes on French Usage IV: Partitive Construction with Adjective Before Noun

THAT the partitive construction is difficult for teachers to explain and students to understand is not surprising in view of its complexity. Efforts to simplify the rules frequently result in faulty statements. Rules of grammar, however, should be phrased and taught accurately, in accordance with the best modern usage, even though the difficulty of mastering the language is not diminished. It is, indeed, better for students to learn French correctly from the start than to obtain erroneous ideas which may have to be "unlearned" later.
MIST: an algorithm for memory miss traffic management

Cache misses represent a major bottleneck in embedded systems performance. Traditionally, compilers optimistically treated all memory accesses as cache hits, relying on the memory controller to account for longer miss delays. However, the memory controller has only a local view of the program, and is not able to efficiently hide the latency of these memory operations. Our compiler technique actively manages cache misses, and performs global miss traffic optimizations, to better hide the latency of the memory operations. Our memory-aware compiler scheduled several benchmarks on the TIC6211 processor architecture with a direct mapped cache, and generated an average of 61.6% improvement over the best schedule of the traditional (memory-transparent) optimizing compiler, demonstrating the utility of our miss traffic optimization approach.
Association Between Subarachnoid Hemorrhage Outcomes and Number of Cases Treated at California Hospitals

Background and Purpose— Studies of several complex medical conditions have shown that outcomes are better at hospitals that treat more cases. We tested the hypothesis that patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage treated at high-volume hospitals have better outcomes. Methods— Using a database of all admissions to nonfederal hospitals in California from 1990 to 1999, we obtained discharge abstracts for patients with a primary diagnosis of subarachnoid hemorrhage who were admitted through the emergency department. Hospital volume, defined as the average number of subarachnoid hemorrhage cases admitted each year, was divided into quartiles. Rates of mortality, adverse outcomes (death or discharge to long-term care), length of stay, and hospital charges were computed by univariate analysis and by multivariable general estimating equations, with adjustment for demographic and admission characteristics. Results— A total of 12 804 patients were admitted for subarachnoid hemorrhage through the emergency departments ...
Experimental Hydrodynamics and Evolution: Function of Median Fins in Ray-finned Fishes

SYNOPSIS. The median fins of fishes consist of the dorsal, anal, and caudal fins and have long been thought to play an important role in generating locomotor force during both steady swimming and maneuvering. But the orientations and magnitudes of these forces, the mechanisms by which they are generated, and how fish modulate median fin forces have remained largely unknown until the recent advent of Digital Particle Image Velocimetry (DPIV) which allows empirical analysis of force magnitude and direction. Experimental hydrodynamic studies of median fin function in fishes are of special utility when conducted in a comparative phylogenetic context, and we have examined fin function in four ray-finned fish clades (sturgeon, trout, sunfish, and mackerel) with the goal of testing classical hypotheses of fin function and evolution. In this paper we summarize two recent technical developments in DPIV methodology, and discuss key recent findings relevant to median fin function. High-resolution DPIV using a recursive local-correlation algorithm allows quantification of small vortices, while stereo-DPIV permits simultaneous measurement of x, y, and z flow velocity components within a single planar light sheet. Analyses of median fin wakes reveal that lateral forces are high relative to thrust force, and that mechanical performance of median fins (i.e., thrust as a proportion of total force) averages 0.35, a surprisingly low value. Large lateral forces which could arise as an unavoidable consequence of thrust generation using an undulatory propulsor may also enhance stability and maneuverability. Analysis of hydrodynamic function of the soft dorsal fin in bluegill sunfish shows that a thrust wake is generated that accounts for 12% of total thrust and that the thrust generation by the caudal fin may be enhanced by interception of the dorsal fin wake. Integration of experimental studies of fin wakes, computational approaches, and mechanical models of fin function promise understanding of instantaneous forces on fish fins during the propulsive cycle as well as exploration of a broader locomotor design space and its hydrodynamic consequences.
Robust estimation of sinusoidal signals with colored noise using decentralized processing

A technique is developed for the estimation of the number of signals and their central frequencies using decentralized processing, when it is known a priori that the observations consist of a finite number of sinusoidal signals corrupted by an additive colored random noise process with unknown correlations. Such a noise sequence may be caused by jamming from a hostile agent. The authors' decentralized processing scheme is one in which each sensor estimates the frequencies and their covariance matrix and sends the results to the fusion center. At the fusion center, since the estimates from the sensors have a mixture density that is possibly not Gaussian, a robust technique is utilized to combine the estimates. Even when the numbers of frequencies transmitted by the various sensors are identical, determining corresponding frequencies from each sensor is not a straightforward task. Also, outliers caused by line splitting or by spurious frequencies are hard to detect. These problems can be resolved by two methods: the so-called refitting method and the ranking method. Algorithms for both are presented in detail. >
Land-Use Change and Carbon Sinks: Econometric Estimation of the Carbon Sequestration Supply Function

When and if the United States chooses to implement a greenhouse gas reduction program, it will be necessary to decide whether carbon sequestration policies - such as those that promote forestation and discourage deforestation - should be part of the domestic portfolio of compliance activities. We investigate the cost of forest-based carbon sequestration. In contrast with previous approaches, we econometrically examine micro-data on revealed landowner preferences, modeling six major private land uses in a comprehensive analysis of the contiguous United States. The econometric estimates are used to simulate landowner responses to sequestration policies. Key commodity prices are treated as endogenous and a carbon sink model is used to predict changes in carbon storage. Our estimated marginal costs of carbon sequestration are greater than those from previous engineering cost analyses and sectoral optimization models. Our estimated sequestration supply function is similar to the carbon abatement supply function from energy-based analyses, suggesting that forest-based carbon sequestration merits inclusion in a cost-effective portfolio of domestic U.S. climate change strategies.
Gene Expression Profiling of Embryonic Stem Cells Leads to Greater Understanding of Pluripotency and Early Developmental Events

Embryonic stem cells are characterized by their ability to propagate indefinitely in culture, maintaining a normal karyotype and their undifferentiated state. They have the potential of differentiating into any specialized cell type in the body. An understanding of the transcriptional profile related to pluripotency and early development is necessary to better tap their developmental potential and also maintain their undifferentiated phenotype. Currently, several techniques are in use to ascertain the gene expression profile of embryonic stem cells. This review summarizes the information generated using microarray and other approaches on the gene expression analyses of stem cells in both mouse and human cell lines. We also discuss specific approaches useful in future studies aimed at further deciphering the pluripotent nature of human embryonic stem cells.
Affinity-based reversed micellar protein extraction: I. principles and protein-ligand systems.

Affinity cosurfactants, consisting of hydrophilic ligands derivatized with hydrophobic tails, increase the efficiency of selective protein recoveries using reversed micelles by extending the operating range of pH and salt concentration over which an extraction can be performed. Three different affinity cosurfactant–protein pairs have been used to demonstrate the principles of this extractive technique: (i) concanavalin A, a lectin, was extracted with the addition of octyl glucoside; (ii) natural amphiphiles, such as lecithin, were used to extract myelin basic protein, a membrane-associated protein known to recognize and bind the phosphatidylcholine headgroup; and (iii) alkyl boronic acids were used to extract chymotrypsin. The enhancement in protein transfer correlated with the binding strength of the free ligand and protein in aqueous solution. Several control studies confirmed the biospecificity of the interactions of protein and affinity cosurfactant. © 1993 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Delayed peak serum valproic acid in massive divalproex overdose--treatment with charcoal hemoperfusion.

Background: Increased clearance and apparent clinical improvement in valproic acid overdose has been reported following in-series hemodialysis/hemoperfusion therapy. We report a case of divalproex sodium and chlorpheniramine overdose treated with charcoal hemoperfusion and multiple-dose activated charcoal. Case Report: A 32-year-old female presented alert three hours postingestion of her own medication. Serum valproic acid was 105 μg/mL. No anticholinergic toxicity was seen. Despite three doses of activated charcoal over 14 hours, serum valproic acid continued to rise. Whole bowel irrigation and multiple-dose activated charcoal were commenced 17 h postingestion when serum valproic acid was 1380 μg/mL. Charcoal hemoperfusion was instituted three hours later when serum valproic acid had not fallen and the patient remained obtunded. Results: Initial extraction ratio of the hemoperfusion cartridge was 0.54 with plasma clearance of 54.5 mL/min. Valproic acid elimination half-life was 3 h during the 190 min hem...
CLUSTERING PROPERTIES OF D-DIMENSIONAL OVERLAPPING SPHERES

Various clustering properties of d-dimensional overlapping (i.e., Poisson distributed) spheres are investigated. We evaluate ${\mathit{n}}_{\mathit{k}}$, the average number of connected clusters of k particles (called k-mers) per unit particle, for k=2,3,4 and ${\mathit{v}}_{\mathit{k}}$, the expected volume of a k-mer, for k=2,3,4 by using our general expressions for these quantities for d=1, 2, or 3. We use these calculations to obtain low-density expansions of various averaged cluster numbers and volumes, which can be obtained from the ${\mathit{n}}_{\mathit{k}}$ and ${\mathit{v}}_{\mathit{k}}$. We study the behavior of these cluster statistics as the percolation threshold is approached from below, and we rigorously show that two of these averaged quantities do not diverge for d\ensuremath{\geqslant}2. \textcopyright{} 1996 The American Physical Society.
Neural networks for control of posture and locomotion

Neural network algorithms have recently been used in a wide variety of control systems applications. In some applications, neural network components are used in place of other control system components in a standard control system configuration-e.g., neural networks have been used as inverse system models in direct inverse control. In other applications, neural network components have been used in somewhat nonstandard control system configurations, such as configurations that are based on the structure of neurophysiological control systems. An important example is the use of neural network pattern generators for the control of locomotion. This paper presents a review the author's work and the work of others in applying neural networks for the control of posture and locomotion. In the author's work, he is using neural networks to control locomotion and posture in individuals with spinal cord injury using functional neuromuscular stimulation. The author's approach is similar to that of others whose applications cover a range of activities from basic science investigations of motor control systems to controlling locomotion of hexapod robots.
Robust Adaptive Dynamic Programming With an Application to Power Systems

This brief presents a novel framework of robust adaptive dynamic programming (robust-ADP) aimed at computing globally stabilizing and suboptimal control policies in the presence of dynamic uncertainties. A key strategy is to integrate ADP theory with techniques in modern nonlinear control with a unique objective of filling up a gap in the past literature of ADP without taking into account dynamic uncertainties. Neither the system dynamics nor the system order are required to be precisely known. As an illustrative example, the computational algorithm is applied to the controller design of a two-machine power system.
Rate and Regulation of Copper Transport by Human Copper Transporter 1 (hCTR1)

Human copper transporter 1 (hCTR1) is a homotrimer of a 190-amino acid monomer having three transmembrane domains believed to form a pore for copper permeation through the plasma membrane. The hCTR1-mediated copper transport mechanism is not well understood, nor has any measurement been made of the rate at which copper ions are transported by hCTR1. In this study, we estimated the rate of copper transport by the hCTR1 trimer in cultured cells using 64Cu uptake assays and quantification of plasma membrane hCTR1. For endogenous hCTR1, we estimated a turnover number of about 10 ions/trimer/s. When overexpressed in HEK293 cells, a second transmembrane domain mutant of hCTR1 (H139R) had a 3-fold higher Km value and a 4-fold higher turnover number than WT. Truncations of the intracellular C-terminal tail and an AAA substitution of the putative metal-binding HCH C-terminal tripeptide (thought to be required for transport) also exhibited elevated transport rates and Km values when compared with WT hCTR1. Unlike WT hCTR1, H139R and the C-terminal mutants did not undergo regulatory endocytosis in elevated copper. hCTR1 mutants combining methionine substitutions that block transport (M150L,M154L) on the extracellular side of the pore and the high transport H139R or AAA intracellular side mutations exhibited the blocked transport of M150L,M154L, confirming that Cu+ first interacts with the methionines during permeation. Our results show that hCTR1 elements on the intracellular side of the hCTR1 pore, including the carboxyl tail, are not essential for permeation, but serve to regulate the rate of copper entry.
Characterization of Invertase Activity from Cariogenic Streptococcus mutans

Invertase activity from Streptococcus mutans GS-5 has been partially purified and shown to possess β-fructofuranosidase specificity. The enzyme has a broad pH optimum between pH 5.5 and 7.5 and exhibits maximal activity at 37 C. Fructose, but not the glucose analogue α-methyl-d-glucoside, acts as a competitive inhibitor of the enzyme. None of the common glycolytic intermediates or adenine nucleotides had any significant effect on enzyme activity. A molecular weight of approximately 47,000 was estimated for the enzyme. The enzyme does not appear to be catabolically repressed by glucose nor inducible by sucrose. Higher specific activities of the enzyme are observed in fructose or glucose-grown cells compared to sucrose-grown cells. These results are discussed in terms of the regulation of invertase activity in vivo.
Heightened Condition-Dependent Growth of Sexually Selected Weapons in the Rhinoceros Beetle, Trypoxylus dichotomus (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae)

Synopsis The exaggerated weapons and ornaments of sexual selection are condition-dependent traits that often grow to exaggerated proportions. The horns of male rhinoceros beetles are extremely sensitive to the larval nutritional environment and are used by rival males in combat over access to females. In contrast to horns, other parts of the body, such as wings, eyes, and legs, scale proportionally with body size, whereas others, such as males’ external genitalia, are invariant with body size, regardless of nutrition. We document how body parts of the Asian rhinoceros beetle, Trypoxylus dichotomus, exhibit plasticity and constraint in response to nutritional condition. We discuss the implications of these results for the evolution of condition-dependent and condition-independent traits in animals.
Corrosion Protection of Aluminum Alloy 2024-T3 by Vanadate Conversion Coatings

Abstract In this paper, the formation, chemistry, morphology, and corrosion protection of a new type of inorganic conversion coating is described. This coating, referred to as a vanadate conversion...
2. A Men's Gymnasium

(1956). 2. A Men's Gymnasium. Journal of Health, Physical Education, Recreation: Vol. 27, No. 1, pp. 10-55.
Increased proximal acid reflux is associated with early readmission following lung transplantation

BACKGROUND Gastroesophageal reflux disease has been associated with poor outcomes following lung transplantation. However, the association between pretransplant reflux and post-transplant readmission, an indicator of early clinical outcome, has not been previously assessed. METHODS This was a retrospective cohort study of lung transplant recipients undergoing pretransplant multichannel intraluminal impedance and pH (MII-pH) study off acid suppression at a tertiary care center since 2007. Subjects with pretransplant fundoplication were excluded. Time to readmission was defined as duration from post-transplant discharge to next hospital admission for any reason. Subgroup analysis was performed to exclude elective readmissions. Time-to-event analysis was performed using Cox proportional hazards model, with appropriate censoring. KEY RESULTS Forty-three subjects (60% men, mean age: 57, median follow-up: 1.7 years) met inclusion criteria for the study. Patient demographics and pretransplant cardiopulmonary function were similar between readmission cohorts. Time to all-cause readmission was associated with increased distal acid episodes (HR: 3.15, p = 0.04) and proximal acid episodes (HR: 3.61, p = 0.008) on impedance, increased acid exposure on pH (HR: 2.22, p = 0.04), and elevated Demeester score (HR: 2.26, p = 0.03). When elective readmissions were excluded, early readmission remained significantly associated with increased proximal acid reflux episodes (HR: 2.49, p = 0.04). All findings were confirmed on Kaplan-Meier analysis. CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES Elevated proximal acid reflux on pretransplant MII-pH testing was associated with early readmission following lung transplantation, even after excluding elective readmissions. Exposure to severe acid reflux has measurable effects on early postoperative outcomes such as readmission, and aggressive early antireflux therapy should be considered.
Low level laser therapy and hair regrowth: an evidence-based review

Despite the current treatment options for different types of alopecia, there is a need for more effective management options. Recently, low-level laser therapy (LLLT) was evaluated for stimulating hair growth. Here, we reviewed the current evidence on the LLLT effects with an evidence-based approach, focusing more on randomized controlled studies by critically evaluating them. In order to investigate whether in individuals presenting with hair loss (male pattern hair loss (MPHL), female pattern hair loss (FPHL), alopecia areata (AA), and chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA)) LLLT is effective for hair regrowth, several databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Database were searched using the following keywords: Alopecia, Hair loss, Hair growth, Low level laser therapy, Low level light therapy, Low energy laser irradiation, and Photobiomodulation. From the searches, 21 relevant studies were summarized in this review including 2 in vitro, 7 animal, and 12 clinical studies. Among clinical studies, only five were randomized controlled trials (RCTs), which evaluated LLLT effect on male and female pattern hair loss. The RCTs were critically appraised using the created checklist according to the Critical Appraisal for Therapy Articles Worksheet created by the Center of Evidence-Based Medicine, Oxford. The results demonstrated that all the performed RCTs have moderate to high quality of evidence. However, only one out of five studies performed intention-to-treat analysis, and only another study reported the method of randomization and subsequent concealment of allocation clearly; all other studies did not include this very important information in their reports. None of these studies reported the treatment effect of factors such as number needed to treat. Based on this review on all the available evidence about effect of LLLT in alopecia, we found that the FDA-cleared LLLT devices are both safe and effective in patients with MPHL and FPHL who did not respond or were not tolerant to standard treatments. Future randomized controlled trials of LLLT are strongly encouraged to be conducted and reported according to the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) statement to facilitate analysis and comparison.
Angina treatments and prevention of cardiac events: an appraisal of the evidence

Angina pectoris is the symptomatic manifestation of transient myocardial ischaemia. At the most fundamental level, angina arises when myocardial oxygen demand exceeds the ability of the coronary circulation to provide adequate oxygen delivery to maintain normal myocardial metabolic function. In vivo , the balance of oxygen demand and delivery is a complex physiological process that can be altered by a variety of interventions. Lifestyle modification is a cornerstone of cardiovascular disease management, with or without angina. Additional pharmaceutical and physical interventions are usually applied to patients with angina. Mechanisms of action for these interventions include heart rate modulation, vascular smooth muscle relaxation, metabolic manipulation, revascularization, and others. A number of these interventions have overlapping mechanisms that target angina. Additionally, some interventions may directly or indirectly prevent or delay adverse outcomes such as myocardial infarction or death. This review summarizes current evidence for many applied ischaemia treatments documented to modify angina and comments on available evidence relating to improvement in cardiovascular outcomes.
Electricity costs for an electric vehicle fueling station with Level 3 charging

Abstract Three major perceived disadvantages of plug-in electric vehicles are limited driving range, slow recharge time, and availability of charging infrastructure. While increasing PEV range through larger and more efficient batteries may assuage concerns, public PEV charging infrastructure is required to increase the feasibility of widespread PEV adoption. In particular, Level 3 electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) can refuel a depleted PEV battery to 80% state of charge in half an hour. This work examines details of exact electric utility costs incurred by the operator of a public Level 3 EVSE used to refuel PEVs that perform two of the most common types of travel: driving to work and driving to shop. Both 44 kW and 120 kW EVSE refueling rates are considered. Utility rate models for Southern California are used to determine the cost of electricity. Cooperative game theory is then used to determine of the electrical demand charge incurred by each individual PEV that is charged. Results show that approximately 28–38% of typical travel results in a battery state of charge low enough to be eligible for Level 3 refueling. At low PEV total use, electric utility demand charges comprise an extremely high portion of electricity costs. Increasing PEV total use decreases demand charge contributions to the electricity costs, but must be coupled with parking management, such as valet parking, when dwell time at the destination is long (e.g., at work). Total energy costs to operate 44 kW Level 3 EVSE exceed $1 per kW h at low PEV use, but decrease as PEV use increases. The lowest costs occurred at the highest level of PEV use examined, resulting in a total energy cost of approximately $0.20 per kW h during the summer and $0.13 per kW h during the winter. Parking management may be avoided if multiple EVSE are installed, which is particularly effective in improving access for travel with a short dwell time (e.g., while shopping). Increasing EVSE refueling rate improves access to PEV refueling only if parking management is implemented, but always increases demand charges.
Design of a MRI-visible and radiopaque drug delivery coating for bioresorbable stents

Cardiovascular stents are currently being used for intraluminal stenting of the trachea for tracheomalacia treatment. These devices composed of permanent materials are controversial due to their limitations at internal reinforcement and biocompatibility, especially in pediatrics. We show in a pediatric tracheomalacia rabbit model, a poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) Double Opposed Helical bioresorbable stent (DH) elicits a more mild inflammatory response in the malacic airway compared to a control metal stent. To further improve efficacy, a multi-drug delivery, bioresorbable coating was designed. The coating design controllably delivers ciprofloxacin (antibiotic) for one week and dexamethasone (anti-inflammatory agent) for three months. The bioresorbable polymeric components also demonstrate feasible visibility utilizing Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). The local multi-drug delivery and imaging capabilities in this coating design in combination with the bioresorbable DH stent will result in a successful intervention specifically design for pediatric tracheomalacia. This design will eliminate long-term risks associated with current permanent devices and provide necessary theranostic agents to facilitate healing and monitor progress via non-invasive imaging techniques.Copyright © 2015 by ASME
On the Complexity of the DNA Damages Created by Endogenous Processes

In an earlier Commentary, Billen suggested that the biological effects of ionizing radiation in the low-dose and dose-rate regime of interest in radiation protection may be negligible when contrasted with endogenous or "spontaneous" DNA-damaging events (1). In a response to Billen, Ward challenged this suggestion on the basis that the biological effects of equal quantities of radiation-induced and endogenously created DNA damage are not the same because endogenous processes cannot easily create "locally multiply damaged sites" and in particular double-strand breaks (DSBs) (2). Although I agree with Ward that the quality of the DNA damage is an important factor that must be considered in addition to the quantity of damage, the arguments of Billen and Ward may have been too simplistic in some respects. Calculations are presented below that suggest endogenous processes may be capable of producing at least one type of locally multiply damaged site-simple DSBs-at a rate comparable to an annual dose of the order of about 950 mGy. It also seems likely that endogenous processes are capable of forming other types of relatively simple locally multiply damaged sites at levels equivalent to a 950-mGy annual dose. Although these calculations do not negate all of Ward's arguments against the existence of a "negligible dose", they do suggest that simple DSBs and other classes of simple locally multiply damaged sites can be formed by endogenous processes and are not unique to ionizing radiation.
Estrogen modulates intestinal mucus physiochemical properties and protects against oxidant injury.

BACKGROUNDThe intestinal epithelial barrier and the intestinal mucus layer may be protective against trauma/hemorrhage shock–induced injury in females. This effect is related to estradiol (E2) concentrations and varies with the menstrual cycle. We examined the ability of E2 to impact the physiochemi
Technology, Transactional Distance, and Instructor Effectiveness: An Empirical Investigation

For more than 15 years, a large university in the northwestern United States employed an interactive television system to provide statewide distance learning. Many business professors contended tha...
Design of a 5 Kilogram Solar-Powered Unmanned Airplane for Perpetual Solar Endurance Flight

The objective of this project was to design an airplane with the ability to fly all day and all night using only solar power. The scope of the project was limited by specifying a maximum gross weight of 5 kg and a maximum area of 1.5 m 2 for the combined wing plus horizontal stabilizer area. The airplane design presented in this paper, named Photon, achieved both of these objectives. The key features of the Photon design are a lack of ailerons, cruise/climb battery configurations, and a custom propeller design. The potential benefit of in-flight adjustable propeller pitch was also investigated. The Photon was designed to use Sunpower A-300 photovoltaic panels, and Panasonic NCR18650B lithium-ion batteries. Detailed analysis of the Photon showed the Photon is capable of perpetual solar endurance flight between May 21, and July 21, 2013 at 37.13° latitude above the Equator, which is the latitude of Morgan Hill, California. The best opportunity occurs on the day of the summer solstice. On this day, there is 7.4% more solar energy than required and the batteries can store 7.3% more energy than required to fly through that night. The Photon shows that airplanes designed for perpetual solar endurance flight are limited by their slow flight speed, small payload capacity, low climb rate, and susceptibility to weather and sun conditions. Future improvements in battery energy density will make perpetual solar endurance flight easier to achieve and more useful.
Networking: connecting the dots, building matrices.

All of us decided to attend this conference because we know that we don’t know everything. We know some things, and we have skills, expertise, or experience in some areas that we share with one another. But what we don’t know also brought us here to learn from each other. I’m here to talk
Response of a DNA Hydrogen Bond to a Force in Liquid

Abstract We study the changes in the hydrogen bonding potential of the Watson–Crick base-pair interaction type (A-T and G-C) in a water environment when subject to a harmonic forces, as appearing in AFM applications, in DNA sequencing, and some applications of the electron tunneling. Thermal fluctuations of the hydrogen bonds are unavoidable components of the recognition tunneling. The main question we are considering here is How the amplitude of the conductance of a hydrogen bond, and related bond parameters, like bond length and bond energy, depend on the applied stretching force? The effects are shown on the bond lengths, bond conductances, and bond frequencies for force strengths ranging from zero to the bond-breaking threshold. To describe the Brownian fluctuations of the bond parameters in the presence of water and obtain the frequency characteristics of these fluctuations in an extensive time interval, we use coarse-grain oxDNA model.
Near Infrared Interferometry of the Galilean Satellites

Some of the Galilean satellites show evidence of two distinct surface types, a high albedo frost and a dark, presumably silicate material. We are beginning a program to map the spatial distribution of these components with a Michel son spatial interferometer. This will be done both in and next to the 2.0µm frost absorption band. While the mapping program is just beginning, this investigation has already yielded new information on the wavelength dependence of seeing in the infrared.
Friends Without Benefits? Treasury and EU State Aid

This report, which appeared in Tax Notes on September 19, 2016, and is posted here with permission, critiques the U.S. Treasury's white paper condemning recent state aid investigations by the European Commission.
WiFi Access Point as a Sensing Platform

The growth of the Internet of Things and the trends to deploy more sensors everywhere has led to search for cost effective ways to connect the devices to the Internet. In the most common network architecture for home IoT, the devices use low-power wireless or WiFi to connect to an AP and access the Internet backend. We present a study on the feasibility and efficiency of an alternate network architecture for home IoT. In the proposed architecture, sensors and devices are directly attached to WiFi access points and utilize the computing resources of WiFi APs. We design and implement several sensing applications based on the proposed architecture and report on the performance and limitations of the approach. We find that the proposed architecture allows WiFi APs to become the computational, networking, and storage host for sensing applications without degrading the AP's primary function of providing Internet access to the home users.
A perillyl alcohol-conjugated analog of 3-bromopyruvate without cellular uptake dependency on monocarboxylate transporter 1 and with activity in 3-BP-resistant tumor cells.

The anticancer agent 3-bromopyruvate (3-BP) is viewed as a glycolytic inhibitor that preferentially kills glycolytic cancer cells through energy depletion. However, its cytotoxic activity is dependent on cellular drug import through transmembrane monocarboxylate transporter 1 (MCT-1), which restricts its anticancer potential to MCT-1-positive tumor cells. We created and characterized an MCT-1-independent analog of 3-BP, called NEO218. NEO218 was synthesized by covalently conjugating 3-BP to perillyl alcohol (POH), a natural monoterpene. The responses of various tumor cell lines to treatment with either compound were characterized in the presence or absence of supplemental pyruvate or antioxidants N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) and glutathione (GSH). Drug effects on glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) enzyme activity were investigated by mass spectrometric analysis. The development of 3-BP resistance was investigated in MCT-1-positive HCT116 colon carcinoma cells in vitro. Our results show that NEO218: (i) pyruvylated GAPDH on all 4 of its cysteine residues and shut down enzymatic activity; (ii) severely lowered cellular ATP content below life-sustaining levels, and (iii) triggered rapid necrosis. Intriguingly, supplemental antioxidants effectively prevented cytotoxic activity of NEO218 as well as 3-BP, but supplemental pyruvate powerfully protected cells only from 3-BP, not from NEO218. Unlike 3-BP, NEO218 exerted its potent cytotoxic activity irrespective of cellular MCT-1 status. Treatment of HCT116 cells with 3-BP resulted in prompt development of resistance, based on the emergence of MCT-1-negative cells. This was not the case with NEO218, and highly 3-BP-resistant cells remained exquisitely sensitive to NEO218. Thus, our study identifies a mechanism by which tumor cells develop rapid resistance to 3-BP, and presents NEO218 as a superior agent not subject to this cellular defense. Furthermore, our results offer alternative interpretations of previously published models on the role of supplemental antioxidants: Rather than quenching reactive oxygen species (ROS), supplemental NAC or GSH directly interact with 3-BP, thereby neutralizing the drug's cytotoxic potential before it can trigger ROS production. Altogether, our study introduces new aspects of the cytotoxic mechanism of 3-BP, and characterizes NEO218 as an analog able to overcome a key cellular defense mechanism towards this drug.
A Corticothalamic Circuit for Dynamic Switching between Feature Detection and Discrimination

Summary Sensory processing must be sensitive enough to encode faint signals near the noise floor but selective enough to differentiate between similar stimuli. Here we describe a layer 6 corticothalamic (L6 CT) circuit in the mouse auditory forebrain that alternately biases sound processing toward hypersensitivity and improved behavioral sound detection or dampened excitability and enhanced sound discrimination. Optogenetic activation of L6 CT neurons could increase or decrease the gain and tuning precision in the thalamus and all layers of the cortical column, depending on the timing between L6 CT activation and sensory stimulation. The direction of neural and perceptual modulation – enhanced detection at the expense of discrimination or vice versa – arose from the interaction of L6 CT neurons and subnetworks of fast-spiking inhibitory neurons that reset the phase of low-frequency cortical rhythms. These findings suggest that L6 CT neurons contribute to the resolution of the competing demands of detection and discrimination.
Utilizing light-triggered plasmon-driven catalysis reactions as a template for molecular delivery and release

Due to the facile manipulation and non-invasive nature of light-triggered release, it is one of the most potent ways to selectively and remotely deliver a molecular target. Among the various carrier platforms, plasmonic nanoparticles possess advantages such as enhanced cellular uptake and easy loading of “cargo” molecules. Two general strategies are currently utilized to achieve light-induced molecule release from plasmonic nanoparticles. The first uses femtosecond laser pulses to directly break the bond between the nanoparticle and the loaded target. The other requires significant photo-thermal effects to weaken the interaction between the cargo molecules and nanoparticle-attached host molecules. Different from above mechanisms, herein, we introduce a new light-controlled molecular-release method by taking advantage of a plasmon-driven catalytic reaction at the particle surface. In this strategy, we link the target to a plasmon responsive molecule, 4-aminobenzenethiol (4-ABT), through the robust and simple EDC coupling reaction and subsequently load the complex onto the particles via the strong Au–thiol interaction. Upon continuous-wave (CW) laser illumination, the excited surface plasmon catalyzes the formation of 4,4′-dimercaptoazobenzenethiol (DMAB) and simultaneously releases the loaded molecules with high efficiency. This method does not require the use of high-power pulsed lasers, nor does it rely on photo-thermal effects. We believe that plasmon-driven release strategies open a new direction for the designing of next-generation light-triggered release processes.
High- T c superconductor Y Ba 2 Cu 3 O 7 − δ studied by positron annihilation

We have measured the positron-lifetime and the Doppler-broadening spectra in the high-temperature superconductor $\mathrm{Y}{\mathrm{Ba}}_{2}{\mathrm{Cu}}_{3}{\mathrm{O}}_{7\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\delta}}$ as a function of temperature between 77 and 295 K. Positron-lifetime and Doppler-broadening data show new features in the superconducting phase. These results are interpreted in terms of positron localization in lattice distortions and positron surface states.
Dynamics of Symmetry-Breaking Stacking Boundaries in Bilayer MoS2

Crystal symmetry of two-dimensional (2D) materials plays an important role in their electronic and optical properties. Engineering symmetry in 2D materials has recently emerged as a promising way to achieve novel properties and functions. The noncentrosymmetric structure of monolayer transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs), such as molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), has allowed for valley control via circularly polarized optical excitation. In bilayer TMDCs, inversion symmetry can be controlled by varying the stacking sequence, thus providing a pathway to engineer valley selectivity. Here, we report the in situ integration of AA′ and AB stacked bilayer MoS2 with different inversion symmetries by creating atomically sharp stacking boundaries between the differently stacked domains, via thermal stimulation and electron irradiation, inside an atomic-resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy. The setup enables us to track the formation and atomic motion of the stacking boundaries in real time and with u...
Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) and the Action for Health in Diabetes (Look AHEAD) Study: Lessons Learned

The Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) and the Action for Health in Diabetes (Look AHEAD) Study were important, large, randomized trials that evaluated the effects of a lifestyle intervention, including diet and physical activity, in persons at risk for or with type 2 diabetes. The DPP Study found that a lifestyle intervention targeting ≥7% weight loss and ≥150 min/week of physical activity effectively reduced diabetes incidence by 58% over an average of 2.8 years. Though weight loss was a stronger predictor of decreased diabetes incidence in DPP, achieving the targeted 150 min/week of physical activity predicted greater weight loss, was easier for participants to achieve (vs. the weight loss target), and decreased diabetes risk by 44% even when weight loss and dietary fat goals were not achieved. These findings strongly support physical activity for diabetes prevention. The Look AHEAD Study evaluated whether a lifestyle intervention targeting ≥7% weight loss and ≥175 min/week of physical activity could reduce major cardiovascular events in adults with preexisting diabetes. After an average 9.6 years of follow-up, the lifestyle intervention was not effective for reducing cardiovascular events as compared to the control group. Despite the failure to find a benefit on the primary outcome, increases in physical activity and, to a greater extent, cardiorespiratory fitness were independently related to more weight loss, better glycemic control, reduced cardiovascular risk factors, and increased health-related quality of life among Look AHEAD Study participants. Thus, physical activity that increases fitness remains an important part of treatment recommendations for adults with type 2 diabetes.
Herpes Zoster and Postherpetic Neuralgia: Prevention and Management

Herpes zoster, or shingles, is caused by reactivation of varicella zoster virus, which causes chickenpox. There are an estimated 1 million cases in the Unites States annually, with an individual lifetime risk of 30%. Patients with conditions that decrease cell-mediated immunity are 20 to 100 times more likely to develop herpes zoster. Patients may present with malaise, headache, low-grade fever, and abnormal skin sensations for two to three days before the classic maculopapular rash appears. The rash is usually unilateral, confined to a single dermatome, and typically progresses to clear vesicles that become cloudy and crust over in seven to 10 days. Herpes zoster can be treated with acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir, ideally within 72 hours of the development of the rash. Postherpetic neuralgia is the most common complication, occurring in about one in five patients. It is defined as pain in a dermatomal distribution sustained for at least 90 days after acute herpes zoster. Treatment is focused on symptom control and includes topical lidocaine or capsaicin and oral gabapentin, pregabalin, or tricyclic antidepressants. The varicella zoster virus vaccine decreases the incidence of herpes zoster and is approved for adults 50 years and older. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommends this vaccine for adults 60 years and older, except for certain immunosuppressed patients.
Erythropoiesis In Vitro: Enhancement by Neuraminidase

Neuraminidase treatment of human fetal liver or adult marrow cells prior to culture results in an increased number of erythroid colonies and bursts. No increase occurs in the number of nonerythroid colonies. The number of bursts having more than eight subunits is increased preferentially. Individual burst subunits are also enlarged. Neuraminidase-treated cells yield erythroid bursts when cultured in concentrations of erythropoietin insufficient to produce bursts from untreated cells. It is proposed that (1) neuraminidase treatment of adult and fetal cell mixtures specifically stimulates differentiation of erythroid precursors, (2) the preferential stimulation of erythroid bursts having many subunits suggests a preferential susceptibility of more primitive BFU-Es, and (3) neuraminidase treatment enhances the response of erythroid precursors to erythropoietin.
Alert and Awake: Role of CEO Alertness and Attention on New Product Introduction

We integrate CEO attention perspective with the entrepreneurial alertness to examine rate of new product introductions. We propose that a firm’s rate of new product introduction is predicted indepe...
Process Control Monitoring of Laser Cutting

Process control monitoring can lead to increased efficiency and tremendous cost savings when compared to post-processing inspection. In-process monitoring can evaluate the quality of a process and can be used to detect the completion of a process. Process control monitoring can help reduce waste if the process can be stopped or corrected as soon as a problem is detected. Performing in-process inspection can eliminate the need for post-process inspection, thereby leading to large savings in time and money.
Unconstrained Minimization of Quadratic Splines and Applications

In this paper, we give a review on unconstrained minimization of quadratic splines and some related application problems. We also point out new research directions. In particular, we will discuss construction of merit functions from the augmented Lagrangian function and the regularized gap function, Newton directions for singular Hessians, finite termination of Newton methods for minimization of convex quadratic splines, implementation of QPspline method (a Newton method for strictly convex quadratic programs) by using hot-starts and matrix updating, and estimates of the distance from a point to the intersection of closed convex subsets.