cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of shrub crop interplanting on apple pest ecology in a temperate agroforestry system

Pest control by wild arthropods is an important ecosystem service in fruit crops, especially due to markets that value minimal pesticide use. Techniques to augment on-farm habitat for wild arthropods have focused on flowering ground cover planted within orchards and hedgerows on field borders. However, natural enemies found in groundcover often do not favor tree canopy habitat. Conversely, while hedgerows can effectively provide natural enemies that prefer woody microhabitats, their impact diminishes away from field edges. Shrub crops interplanted within orchards could resolve both problems, providing woody habitat for natural enemies directly adjacent to target crop trees. In a multi-layer agroforestry system in Illinois, we vacuum sampled arthropod communities across layers and recorded vegetation characteristics and pest damage on apples. Using generalized linear models, information theoretic model selection, and non-metric multidimensional scaling, we evaluated the effects of three shrub treatments (raspberries, hazelnuts, and both species) on pest and natural enemy guilds in apple trees and shrubs, and on the frequency of pest damage on apples. Shrub composition was an important predictor of arthropod communities on shrubs. However, shrub treatment had only minor impacts on arthropods in apple canopies, indicating the habitats are less similar than anticipated. While two arthropod guilds in apple canopies were linked to pest damage frequency, neither was sensitive to changes in the shrub layer. Results suggest that shrub crop interplanting does not inherently resolve the ecological complexities that impede existing approaches in conservation biological control.
SCALENet: A SCalable Low power AccELerator for Real-time Embedded Deep Neural Networks

As deep learning networks mature and improve classification performance, a significant challenge is their deployment in embedded settings. Modern network typologies, such as convolutional neural networks, can be very deep and impose considerable complexity that is often not feasible in resource bound, real-time systems. Processing of these networks requires high levels of parallelization, maximizing data throughput, and support for different network types, while minimizing power and resource consumption. In response to these requirements, in this paper, we present a low power FPGA based neural network accelerator named SCALENet: a SCalable Low power AccELerator for real-time deep neural Networks. Key features include optimization for power with coarse and fine grain scheduler, implementation flexibility with hardware only or hardware/software co-design, and acceleration for both fully connected and convolutional layers. The experimental results evaluate SCALENet against two different neural network applications: image processing, and biomedical seizure detection. The image processing networks, implemented on SCALENet, trained on the CIFAR-10 and ImageNet datasets with eight different networks, are implemented on an Arty A7 and Zedboard#8482; FPGA platforms. The highest improvement came with the Inception network on an ImageNet dataset with a throughput of 22x and decrease in energy consumption of 13x compared to the ARM processor implementation. We then implement SCALENet for time series EEG seizure detection using both a Direct Convolution and FFT Convolution method to show its design versatility with a 99.7% reduction in execution time and a 97.9% improvement in energy consumption compared to the ARM. Finally, we demonstrate the ability to achieve parity with or exceed the energy efficiency of NVIDIA GPUs when evaluated against Jetson TK1 with embedded GPU System on Chip (SoC) and with a 4x power savings in a power envelope of 2.07 Watts.
Scripted Animation Towards Scalable Content Creation for eLearning—A Quality Analysis

The success of eLearning depends on the broad availability of educational materials that provide a high-quality delivery of high-quality content. One approach for high-quality delivery is to rely on a computer animated instructor avatar that not only speaks, but that also gestures to elucidate novel concepts and to convey an engaging personality that captures and maintains the learners’ focus. The traditional approach of manual key frame animation does not scale, as it requires a substantial time investment as well as artistic talent. We have developed a system that allows animating an instructor avatar quickly and without the prerequisite of artistic talent through a text script. In this paper we quantify the speed/quality tradeoff made by our scripted animation by comparison to manual animation.
Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation: Reflections on Yesterday and Thoughts for Tomorrow

Biomedical science is entering a new era with exciting prospects for using cellular therapy to treat a wide spectrum of human diseases from nerve injury to diabetes, myocardial infarction, and more. Hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transplantation has been used to treat patients for nearly half a century. The experiences and lessons learned over those 50 years are both informative and encouraging. This chapter distills the history of HSC transplantation to provide an orientation to the past that can be used to more wisely navigate the future of cell therapy. The details presented help the reader appreciate that developing novel cell therapy can be a struggle and that chance will likely continue to play a role in future success. However, it also becomes apparent that attention to fundamental details, such as choice of cell type or types, where to obtain the cells, how to handle and process the cells, how to prepare and select patients, how to evaluate success and failure, and how to organize the biomedical community to serve the good of patients, are all critical for new cell therapy to become a reality.
Dynamics and implications of models for intermittent androgen suppression therapy

In this paper, we formulate a three cell population model of intermittent androgen suppression therapy for cancer patients to study the treatment resistance development. We compare it with other models that have different underlying cell population structure using patient prostate specific antigen (PSA) and androgen data sets. Our results show that in the absence of extensive data, a two cell population structure performs slightly better in replicating and forecasting the dynamics observed in clinical PSA data. We also observe that at least one absorbing state should be present in the cell population structure of a plausible model for it to produce treatment resistance under continuous hormonal therapy. This suggests that the heterogeneity of prostate cancer cell population can be represented by two types of cells differentiated by their level of dependence on androgen, where the two types are linked via an irreversible transformation.
Ccr4–Not maintains genomic integrity by controlling the ubiquitylation and degradation of arrested RNAPII

The Ccr4-Not complex regulates essentially every aspect of gene expression, from mRNA synthesis to protein destruction. The Not4 subunit of the complex contains an E3 RING domain and targets proteins for ubiquitin-dependent proteolysis. Ccr4-Not associates with elongating RNA polymerase II (RNAPII), which raises the possibility that it controls the degradation of elongation complex components. Here, we demonstrate that Ccr4-Not controls the ubiquitylation and turnover of Rpb1, the largest subunit of RNAPII, during transcription arrest. Deleting NOT4 or mutating its RING domain strongly reduced the DNA damage-dependent ubiquitylation and destruction of Rpb1. Surprisingly, in vitro ubiquitylation assays indicate that Ccr4-Not does not directly ubiquitylate Rpb1 but instead promotes Rpb1 ubiquitylation by the HECT domain-containing ligase Rsp5. Genetic analyses suggest that Ccr4-Not acts upstream of RSP5, where it acts to initiate the destruction process. Ccr4-Not binds Rsp5 and forms a ternary complex with it and the RNAPII elongation complex. Analysis of mutant Ccr4-Not lacking the RING domain of Not4 suggests that it both recruits Rsp5 and delivers the E2 Ubc4/5 to RNAPII. Our work reveals a previously unknown function of Ccr4-Not and identifies an essential new regulator of RNAPII turnover during genotoxic stress.
Rheology of crystallizing polymers: The role of spherulitic superstructures, gap height, and nucleation densities

A longstanding goal in polymer rheology is to develop a physical picture that relates the growth of mechanical moduli during polymer crystallization to that of a structure. Here, we utilize simultaneous mechanical rheology and optical microscopy, with augmentation by deterministic reconstruction and stochastic simulations, to study isothermal crystallization in isotactic polypropylene. We observe the nucleation and growth of the surface and bulk spherulites, which are initially isolated and then impinge to form clusters and superstructures that eventually span the gap. We find that spherulitic superstructures play a critical role in the rheology, especially in the characteristic sharp upturn in moduli. Both the rheology and the spherulitic superstructures show pronounced gap dependencies, which we explain via finite-size effects in percolation phenomena and via surface-induced nucleation. The modulus-crystallinity relationship can be described through a general effective medium theory. It indicates that for thicker gaps, the viscoelastic liquid to solid transition can be described via percolation, whereas for our thinnest gap, it is best described by the linear mixing rule. We describe our results in terms of dimensionless nucleation rates and spherulite size, which enable the estimation of when gap-dependent superstructure effects can be anticipated.A longstanding goal in polymer rheology is to develop a physical picture that relates the growth of mechanical moduli during polymer crystallization to that of a structure. Here, we utilize simultaneous mechanical rheology and optical microscopy, with augmentation by deterministic reconstruction and stochastic simulations, to study isothermal crystallization in isotactic polypropylene. We observe the nucleation and growth of the surface and bulk spherulites, which are initially isolated and then impinge to form clusters and superstructures that eventually span the gap. We find that spherulitic superstructures play a critical role in the rheology, especially in the characteristic sharp upturn in moduli. Both the rheology and the spherulitic superstructures show pronounced gap dependencies, which we explain via finite-size effects in percolation phenomena and via surface-induced nucleation. The modulus-crystallinity relationship can be described through a general effective medium theory. It indicates that f...
Therapeutic Communities: Evolutionary Arc and the Opioid Epidemic

The complexity of the present epidemic underscores the need for strategies that address the diversity of people, problems, and social psychological issues associated with drug abuse and the risk of overdose death. Modern TCs emerged during an earlier epidemic of heroin abuse in the 1960s. Its early success spurred a rapid diffusion of the approach to serve a diversity of substance abusers in various settings. This chapter briefly traces the 50-year evolutionary arc of the North American TC, its accomplishments, the challenges of adapting the approach to various populations and settings, and its unique role in the current epidemic.
A Comparison of International Management Guidelines for Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory dermatosis that imparts a significant burden on patients and presents a management challenge for healthcare providers. As attention to this debilitating condition has grown over recent years, our understanding of HS pathogenesis and optimal treatment approaches continues to evolve. Nine HS treatment guidelines developed by various expert organizations have been published, encompassing therapeutic modalities ranging from topical agents to systemic therapies to procedural interventions. These guidelines demonstrate significant overlap in treatment recommendations and have all been published within the last 5 years. Therefore, we aim to compare and synthesize the recommendations of international HS treatment guidelines and to encourage inter-organizational communication for the development of consensus or staggered publication of recommendations for HS management.
Direct recovery of interfacial topography from coherent X‐ray reflectivity: model calculations for a 1D interface

The use of coherent X-ray reflectivity to recover interfacial topography is described using model calculations for a 1D interface. The results reveal that the illuminated topography can be recovered directly from the measured reflected intensities. This is achieved through an analysis of the Patterson function, the Fourier transform of the scattering intensity (as a function of lateral momentum transfer, Q//, at fixed vertical momentum transfer, Qz). Specifically, a second-order Patterson function is defined that reveals the discrete set of separations and contrast factors (i.e. the product of changes in the effective scattering factor) associated with discontinuities in the effective interfacial topography. It is shown that the topography is significantly overdetermined by the measurements, and an algorithm is described that recovers the actual topography through a deterministic sorting of this information.
Dodging the grabbing hand: the determinants of unofficial activity in 69 countries

Across 69 countries, higher tax rates are associated with less unofficial activity as a percent of GDP but corruption is associated with more unofficial activity. Entrepreneurs go underground not to avoid official taxes but to reduce the burden of bureaucracy and corruption. Dodging the 'grabbing hand' in this way reduces tax revenues as a percent of both official and total GDP. As a result, corrupt governments become small governments and only relatively uncorrupt governments can sustain high tax rates. © 2000 Elsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved.
Preventing cardiovascular disease among sexual and gender minority persons.

With growing awareness of the unique health risks and disparate outcomes among sexual and gender minority (SGM), for example, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) populations, the US National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) recently released a report highlighting these health disparities. Among the conditions discussed, the NASEM stressed the importance of assessing and addressing cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk behaviours leading to adverse outcomes across the lifespan and specifically called attention to the need for preventive health interventions.1 The American Heart Association (AHA) recently published ‘Assessing and Addressing Cardiovascular Health in LGBTQ Adults’, a comprehensive overview of the existing evidence regarding SGM adults and their increased CVD risk compared with heterosexual and cisgender peers.2 Although SGM populations are often grouped together, subgroups within these populations have distinct health risks and exposures. For example, analyses of Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data have documented a higher prevalence of self-reported tobacco use3 and CVD diagnoses4 in gender minority (ie, transgender and gender diverse populations) adults relative to cisgender persons. Central to understanding CVD …
An artificial intelligence that increases simulated brain-computer interface performance.

Objective.Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) translate neural activity into control signals for assistive devices in order to help people with motor disabilities communicate effectively. In this work, we introduce a new BCI architecture that improves control of a BCI computer cursor to type on a virtual keyboard.Approach.Our BCI architecture incorporates an external artificial intelligence (AI) that beneficially augments the movement trajectories of the BCI. This AI-BCI leverages past user actions, at both long (100 s of seconds ago) and short (100 s of milliseconds ago) timescales, to modify the BCI's trajectories.Main results.We tested our AI-BCI in a closed-loop BCI simulator with nine human subjects performing a typing task. We demonstrate that our AI-BCI achieves: (1) categorically higher information communication rates, (2) quicker ballistic movements between targets, (3) improved precision control to 'dial in' on targets, and (4) more efficient movement trajectories. We further show that our AI-BCI increases performance across a wide control quality spectrum from poor to proficient control.Significance.This AI-BCI architecture, by increasing BCI performance across all key metrics evaluated, may increase the clinical viability of BCI systems.
Rate Coefficient for H+ + H2(X1Σg+, ν = 0, J = 0) → H(1s) + H2+ Charge Transfer and Some Cosmological Implications

Krstic has carried out the first quantum mechanical calculations near threshold for the charge transfer (CT) process H+ + H2(X 1Σ, ν = 0, J = 0) → H(1s) + H. These results are relevant for models of primordial galaxy and first star formation that require reliable atomic and molecular data for obtaining the hydrogen chemistry of the early universe. Using the results of Krstic, we calculate the relevant CT rate coefficient for temperatures between 100 and 30,000 K. We also present a simple fit that can be readily implemented into early universe chemical models. Additionally, we explore how the range of previously published data for this reaction translates into uncertainties in the predicted gas temperature and H2 relative abundance in a collapsing primordial gas cloud. Our new data significantly reduce these cosmological uncertainties that are due to the uncertainties in the previously published CT rate coefficients.
Blocking the activin IIB receptor with bimagrumab (BYM338) increases walking performance: A meta-analysis.

Aim Diseases and bed rest may result in decreased muscle size and function. While exercise is recommended as a countermeasure, there are times when diseases or injuries make it difficult for the patient to partake in an exercise intervention. Pharmaceutical interventions using a myostatin inhibitor, BYM338, have been investigated as a way to increase or maintain muscle function. Of interest in the present analysis was the 6-min walk test. The 6-min walk test was selected, as there is an association between walking ability and the ease of performing activities of daily living. Thus, our aim was to investigate the effects of BYM338 on walking performance relative to a placebo. Methods A meta-analysis using a random effects model was conducted in April 2021. Results Four studies were included with a total sample size of 244 participants receiving BYM338 and 114 participants receiving a placebo. The average age of the participants included was 68 years. The main analysis produced a weighted mean effect size of 10 m (SE 5) (P = 0.05) for BYM338 over a placebo. Excluding the lowest dosage (1 mg/kg) provided similar results (12 m [SE 5], P = 0.033). Of note, the weighted mean effect with or without the lowest dosage is surrounded by a large degree of uncertainty. Conclusions Our results suggest that BYM338 is a viable drug for improving 6-min walk test in populations associated with impaired function. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2021; 21: 939-943.
Transitioning the eating experience in survivors of head and neck cancer

Applying the Social Cognitive Transition (SCT) Model of Adjustment as an interpretive framework, this mixed-methods case series explored how head and neck cancer (HNC) survivors participate in the dimensions of the eating experience (described as physiological, psychological, social, cultural). This was a sub-study of a primary study, “The Natural History and Impact of Taste Change in Oncology Care.” Qualitative interviews and quantitative data (questionnaires and exams) were intersected to examine and describe the complexities of transitioning the eating experience after treatment for HNC. Triangulation of qualitative and quantitative data within and across cases was examined to produce rich descriptions of the changes and transitions in the eating experience. Four case studies were detailed. All reported some taste and/or smell changes. Each case described worry about weight loss and the decreased ability to engage and finding meaning in the eating experience. Each expressed coping strategies that drew upon the social and cultural dimensions of their prior eating experience that brought meaning and purpose to the post-treatment eating experience. This case series explored the impact of taste and oral function and the participant’s pre- and post-treatment mental model of the eating experience. Application of the SCT Model of Adjustment to the eating experience in adults with HNC provided a deeper insight into how cognitive adaptation and coping strategies supported transition in identity related to the eating experience following cancer therapy.
91 Impact of ultra-fast ‘FLASH’ radiotherapy on single cell immunogenomics in diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG)

Background Diffuse intrinsic pontine gliomas (DIPG’s) are immunologically inert tumors with a median survival of 9–15 months. Radiation therapy (RT) is the mainstay treatment for DIPG but is associated with immunodepletion of the tumor microenvironment (TME) at high dose ranges. FLASH, or ultra-fast dose rate RT, represents a novel ablative technique that may spare TME immune responses while decreasing tumor burden. Here, we present single-cell immune profiling of DIPG tumors treated with FLASH, conventional dose rate RT (CONV) or no RT (SHAM). Methods Murine H3.3K27M mutant DIPG cells were stereotactically injected and tumor induction confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) 15 days later. DIPG-bearing mice were randomly assigned to one of three treatment groups (n=4/group), FLASH, CONV or SHAM. A fourth group with no tumor (NML) was included as a negative biological control. A modified linear accelerator was used to deliver 15 Gy of electron RT to the brainstem at dose rates of 90 Gy/second and 2 Gy/minute, for the FLASH and CONV groups, respectively. Four days post-RT, mice brainstems were harvested, homogenized, stained for CD45 and tagged with a hashtag antibody specific to each group. CD45+ immune cells were isolated and sequenced using the 10X Genomics chromium single-cell 3’ platform. After processing and alignment of the reads using CellRanger with default parameters, the data was quality checked and filtered before hashtag demultiplexing, unsupervised clustering and downstream analysis was implemented following the Seurat R package. Differential expression evaluated based on the non-parametric Wilcoxon rank sum test. Key genes determine by an adjusted p value of 0.8. Results Preliminary analysis identifies 15 clusters with distinct CD45 immune phenotypes (figure 1). Differential gene expression analysis by hashtag antibody (treatment group) reveals 14 clusters differentially expressing key genes, including 3 clusters upregulated in DIPG compared to NML, and 2 clusters upregulated in irradiated tumors compared to SHAM and NML (figure 2). Notably, analysis demonstrates an individual cluster upregulated in FLASH versus all other groups (p = 3.07E-171). Further deconvolution of specific immune phenotypes represented by each cluster is ongoing. Conclusions Our preliminary analysis shows differential immune responses among DIPG tumors compared to NML. We also find several immune cell subsets that are unique to DIPG treated with CONV or FLASH compared to unirradiated samples. Most notably, we identify a single immune cell subset that is exclusive to FLASH alone, indicating that FLASH elicits a unique immune response in murine DIPG.
Pharmacological intervention of HIV-1 maturation

Despite significant advances in antiretroviral therapy, increasing drug resistance and toxicities observed among many of the current approved human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) drugs indicate a need for discovery and development of potent and safe antivirals with a novel mechanism of action. Maturation inhibitors (MIs) represent one such new class of HIV therapies. MIs inhibit a late step in the HIV-1 Gag processing cascade, causing defective core condensation and the release of non-infectious virus particles from infected cells, thus blocking the spread of the infection to new cells. Clinical proof-of-concept for the MIs was established with betulinic acid derived bevirimat, the prototype HIV-1 MI. Despite the discontinuation of its further clinical development in 2010 due to a lack of uniform patient response caused by naturally occurring drug resistance Gag polymorphisms, several second-generation MIs with improved activity against viruses exhibiting Gag polymorphism mediated resistance have been recently discovered and are under clinical evaluation in HIV/AID patients. In this review, current understanding of HIV-1 MIs is described and recent progress made toward elucidating the mechanism of action, target identification and development of second-generation MIs is reviewed.
Bok Choy Cultivars for High Tunnel Production

Bok choy is a cool-season annual vegetable that is a popular cooking salad green and its production is increasing in the state. A number of local grocery chains carry the product in Iowa. Based on feedback from growers in the state, this study evaluated the performance of nine bok choy cultivars under high tunnel production. Cultivars evaluated included Black Summer, Feng Qing, Joy Choi, Mei Qing, Red Choi, Shiro, Toy Choy, White Flash, and Win-win Choi (Figure 1).
Genomic and Postgenomic Approaches to Understanding the Pathogenesis of the Enteric Protozoan Parasite Entamoeba histolytica

Elaborate regulation of membrane trafficking is essential for the targeting of molecules necessary for pathogenesis (e.g., lectin and CPs) to precise intracellular compartments such as the surface membrane and lysosomes. This chapter discusses the diversification of cysteine proteases (CPs) and Rab in the context of their diverse localization and function. Encystation and excystation are fundamental processes required for the transmission and development of amebiasis. The current assembly predicts that the genome contains 8,160 genes, almost 1.5-fold more than the number of genes in Plasmodium falciparum (5,268) or Saccharomyces cerevisiae (5,538), and close to that in Dictyostelium discoideum (12,500). The majority of ribosomal protein genes are well conserved, and only the gene for the large subunit protein L41 has not been identified. The chapter focuses only on several important pathways closely related to the parasite's molecular epidemiology, biology, and virulence. It also talks about the insights obtained from comparing their genome information with that of E. histolytica to understand the conservation and unique evolution of the Entamoeba species. Insights into the developmental regulation of CPs and Rab small GTPases during encystation are also discussed as examples of transcriptomic approaches to understand the biology and pathogenesis of this group of enteric protozoa. To gain insights into the mechanisms of encystation-specific membrane trafficking, the authors also investigated the transcriptomic changes of Rab genes during the encystation of E. invadens. The kinetics of the steady-state levels of mRNA for individual Rab genes were categorized into cyst-specific, trophozoite-specific, or constitutive genes.
Mechanistic and Kinetic Study of Singlet O2 Oxidation of Methionine by On-Line Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry

We report a reaction apparatus developed to monitor singlet oxygen ((1)O2) reactions in solution using on-line ESI mass spectrometry and spectroscopy measurements. (1)O2 was generated in the gas phase by the reaction of H2O2 with Cl2, detected by its emission at 1270 nm, and bubbled into aqueous solution continuously. (1)O2 concentrations in solution were linearly related to the emission intensities of airborne (1)O2, and their absolute scales were established based on a calibration using 9,10-anthracene dipropionate dianion as an (1)O2 trapping agent. Products from (1)O2 oxidation were monitored by UV-Vis absorption and positive/negative ESI mass spectra, and product structures were elucidated using collision-induced dissociation-tandem mass spectrometry. To suppress electrical discharge in negative ESI of aqueous solution, methanol was added to electrospray via in-spray solution mixing using theta-glass ESI emitters. Capitalizing on this apparatus, the reaction of (1)O2 with methionine was investigated. We have identified methionine oxidation intermediates and products at different pH, and measured reaction rate constants. (1)O2 oxidation of methionine is mediated by persulfoxide in both acidic and basic solutions. Persulfoxide continues to react with another methionine, yielding methionine sulfoxide as end-product albeit with a much lower reaction rate in basic solution. Density functional theory was used to explore reaction potential energy surfaces and establish kinetic models, with solvation effects simulated using the polarized continuum model. Combined with our previous study of gas-phase methionine ions with (1)O2, evolution of methionine oxidation pathways at different ionization states and in different media is described.
Age differences in orthographic and frequency neighborhoods

Previous researchers have examined young adults' responses in a lexical decision task to words and nonwords which are similar to other words (i.e., the “neighborhood” of the word). They have also explored the effect of high- and low-frequency stimulus words and high- and low-frequency in the neighborhood of the target word. The present study extended this work by examining differences in the responses of younger (age 18–32) and older adults (age 60–75) to items which varied in the frequency of the target word as well as the size and frequency of the words in the target's neighborhood. Older adults were found to respond in a qualitatively different manner than the younger adults. This finding was interpreted through an internal noise model of aging.
Effect of New Jersey's GDL Decal Law on Young Probationary Drivers’ Crashes and Citations

Background: Decal laws have been implemented internationally to facilitate police enforcement of Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) restrictions (e.g., passenger limit, nighttime curfew), but have not been evaluated. New Jersey (NJ) implemented the first-in-the-U.S. decal law on 5/1/10.Purpose: Evaluate the effect of NJ’s law on the rate of citations issued for violation of GDL restrictions and police-reported crashes among probationary drivers Methods: NJ’s licensing and crash databases were linked from 1/1/08-5/31/11 and each driver’s license status, age, and outcome status were ascertained for each month. Monthly rates were calculated as the proportion of probationary drivers who experienced the outcome in that month. The pre-law period was defined as 1/08-1/10 and the post-law period as 5/10-5/11. Negative binomial regression models with robust standard errors were used to determine the law’s effect on crash and citation rates (adjusted for gender, seasonal trends, and overall trends) and estimate prevented crashes. Analyses were conducted in 2012.Results: In the first year post-law, there was a 14% increase in the GDL citation rate (adjusted RR [95% CI]: 1.14 [1.05, 1.24]), a 9% reduction in the police-reported crash rate (aRR [95% CI]: 0.91 [0.86, 0.97]), and an estimated 1,624 young probationary drivers whose crashes were prevented.Conclusion: Findings suggest the law is positively impacting 66 probationary drivers’ safety. Results provide valuable information to U.S. and international policymakers considering decal laws to enhance their GDL laws and contribute to building the evidence base for decal laws.
Study of seasonal variations in nine cations of normal term placentas.

Abstract Sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, zinc, lead, copper, and iron levels were determined in human term placentas collected daily through one calendar year. All measurements were performed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry and expressed as moles per gram of dry tissue weight. The resultant data indicate a seasonal variation in the mean monthly placental levels of sodium, potassium, magnesium, and lead. Differences were not observed when the data were grouped according to race, maternal age, or gravidity.
Qmimic: Model-based monitoring and diagnosis

Qmimic is a fault and noise tolerant monitoring and diagnosis system which detects faults by comparing observations with predictions from an approximate plant model. Because faults are difficult to predict and model, Qmimic uses qualitative and semi-quantitative models of faulty and normal plants which capture broad classes of behaviors. Faults are diagnose by a hypothesize and test mechanism which suggests changes to the current model of the plant, generate a plant model with a presumed fault, and tests the new model against the current readings. The system is tested on a simulated reactor with two controllers.
Deductible Cosmetic Surgery and the Treatment of Transgenderism: An Analysis of the Medical Expense Deduction Post-O’Donnabhain

In 2010, the United States Tax Court upheld a taxpayer’s deduction for medical expenses arising from gender-reassignment surgery. This article discusses the facts of the O’Donnabhain case and the Tax Court’s holding in light of relevant legislative history, and finds that a new layer of understanding now exists in the context of deductible cosmetic surgery: in a post-O’Donnabhain world, mental (not just physical) diseases may be treated through physical alterations to the body which constitute deductible cosmetic surgery. Based on the Tax Court’s opinion, we posit an algorithm for application of what we consider a fourth case-law created exception to the disallowance of deductions for cosmetic surgery.
Formation of Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes via Reduced-Pressure Thermal Chemical Vapor Deposition

We report the growth of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) via reduced-pressure chemical vapor deposition (CVD), using a gas mixture of methane/hydrogen and iron/molybdenum catalyst supported by alumina nanoparticles. The CNTs are either single-walled or double-walled as characterized by transmission electron microscopy. Investigation of various growth parameters indicates that CNT growth is limited by the gas supply when CVD is performed in the temperature range of 750−900 °C, whereas the limiting factor for growth at 700 °C is the rate of carbon diffusion through the catalyst particles. The density of CNTs changes with CVD pressure as well as gas flow rates when growth is limited by gas supply. We also use a single-step lithographic approach to form catalyst islands on top of patterned electrodes and to selectively grow CNTs bridging neighboring electrodes. The process yields both semiconducting and metallic CNTs as characterized by current−voltage measurements.
Total stress rapid drawdown analysis of the Pilarcitos Dam failure using the finite element method

Rapid drawdown is a critical design condition for the upstream or riverside slope of earth dams and levees. A new total stress rapid drawdown method based on finite element analysis is used to analyze the rapid drawdown failure that occurred at Pilarcitos Dam in 1969. Effective consolidation stresses in the slope prior to drawdown are determined using linear elastic finite element analysis. Undrained strengths from isotropically consolidated undrained (ICU) triaxial compression tests are related directly to the calculated consolidation stresses and assigned to the elements in the model by interpolation. Two different interpretations of the undrained strength envelope are examined. Strength reduction finite element analyses are used to evaluate stability of the dam. Back analysis suggests that undrained strengths from ICU tests must be reduced by 30% for use with this rapid drawdown method. The failure mechanism predicted for Pilarcitos Dam is sensitive to the relationship between undrained strength and consolidation stress.
Integrating arthropod herbivory and reduced herbicide use for weed management

Few studies have examined the combined effect of herbicide-induced stress and arthropod herbivory to reduce weed fitness. The purpose of this study was to quantify the effect of arthropod herbivory on the herbicide dose‐response of a perennial weed. Fluroxypyr dose‐response bioassays using volunteer potato were conducted in the presence and absence of Colorado potato beetle (CPB) herbivory. Logistic model parameter estimates for leaf area, shoot biomass, tuber number, and tuber biomass were often lower with herbivory, compared with no herbivory. Greater variance of parameter estimates within herbivory plots was attributed largely to differential feeding because CPB density was not manipulated in the field. Results from short-season field studies (1,000 growing degree days [GDD] after postemergence [POST] herbicide application) indicated that herbivory had the most effect on potato during a period that coincided with high CPB density and optimal temperatures for CPB development. Season-long bioassays ( . 3,100 GDD after POST) revealed that addition of herbivory reduced herbicide use 65 to . 85%, compared with the dose needed to achieve the same reduction in tuber production in the absence of herbivory. Integrated weed management systems targeting volunteer potato are more effective when fluroxypyr applications are made before periods of high herbivory. Moreover, this article describes an experimental approach contributing to optimization of combined effects of arthropod herbivory and reduced herbicide doses.
Effects on brain development leading to cognitive impairment: a worldwide epidemic.

ABSTRACT.This article reviews causes of cognitive impairment in children with a focus on those in developing countries. The number of children with cognitive limitations is increasing, and for the majority there is little access to professional expertise. Causes include malnutrition, genetic disease
Traumatic dislocation of intact mandibular condyle into middle cranial fossa

Abstract Introduction A 10-year-old girl presented to the Emergency Department with temporomandibular joint pain, malocclusion, and trismus after a bicycle accident. Methods CT of the temporal bones showed displacement of the right mandibular condyle into the middle cranial fossa with small intraparenchymal hemorrhage. The condyle was reduced using closed reduction technique and the patient was placed in maxillomandibular fixation. Results Complete reduction of the displaced condyle with resultant normal occlusion and persistent bony defect in the temporal bone. Conclusion In early follow-up assessments the patient has had complete resolution of symptoms with residual bony defect from the site of fracture in the temporal bone.
Computer image processing and recognition

A systematic introduction to the concepts and techniques of computer image processing and recognition is presented. Consideration is given to such topics as image formation and perception; computer representation of images; image enhancement and restoration; reconstruction from projections; digital television, encoding, and data compression; scene understanding; scene matching and recognition; and processing techniques for linear systems.
Design of a biomedical reactor for plasma low‐density lipoprotein removal

The purpose of this study was to design a biomedical reactor that reduces plasma cholesterol when incorporated in an in vivo extracorporeal system. Phospholipase A(2), immobilized onto Agarose beads and housed inside the bioreactor, modifies plasma low density lipoprotein (LDL) into a form that is rapidly removed from circulation. In a packed bed reactor, the enzymatic conversion of LDL to the modified form (with plasma taken from hypercholesterolemic New Zealand white rabbits) was relatively low, 25% +/- 6 for a single pass of plasma through the reactor. An extended bed reactor, a hybrid of fluidized and packed bed reactors, was then developed to increase the conversion. This reactor displays a single pass conversion of 60% +/- 5 under optimal flow conditions. An evaluation of the flow rate through the reactor indicates that the system is limited by external mass transfer when employed under in vivo conditions. In addition, this system requires blood separation before the enzyme modification, which complicates the circuit control. Therefore, a new system was designed for in vivo use with rabbits. The resulting design, called the plasma separator reactor (PSR), combines plasma separation and enzymatic conversion in a single chamber. The PSR has three advantages over other studied systems: improved external mass transfer conditions, easy controllability, and simple set-up procedures. Single pass conversion reached 52% +/- 12 in suboptimal flow under simulated in vivo conditions. This reactor was also tested in vivo with hypercholesterolemic New Zealand white rabbits. A continuous conversion of up to 80% +/- 6 of rabbit plasma phospholipids was observed during 90 min of blood circulation (5 mL/min). The decrease in total plasma cholesterol reached a level of 60% of the initial value and was observed to be a function of the bioreactor enzyme activity.
Effective care in the ambulatory setting:The nurse's contribution

A c c ~J R A T ~ diagnoses and proved regimens are of limited use unless patients understand and comply with instructions. This consideration is especially important in low-income areas, where medical services are not only scarce but often inappropriate? This study was designed to establish whether nurses working with indigent families in an outpatient setting could improve knowledge of and compliance with a difficult regimen for a nonacute condition.
Design and Verification of Cray XT- 4 Supercomputer Cooling System

Cray supercomputers are purpose-built to meet the special needs of capability class HPC applications. Recent advances in Cray scalar supercomputer systems resulted in the introduction of the higher density compute cabinet that consumes significant amounts of electrical power and produces an extraordinary amount of heat. Due to the new design requirements, which have tremendous consequences with regard to thermal management, new cooling concepts were required. The XT4 can have up to 30,000 dual-core Opterons, and the SeaStar2 interconnection chip plugs right into the Hyper Transport links on the Opteron processors to make a very fast mesh of processors and memory for applications. Such a machine consumes about 5.2 megawatts of power to deliver around 1.15 petaflops. That is twice the size of Red Storm, but more than a factor of 10 more performance. The extra power density required additional modification to the cooling system. This article describes the design, simulations and verification of the XT-3 and XT-4 systems. Over the past few years thermal design for cooling microprocessors has become increasingly challenging, as silicon technology continues to scale in accordance with Moore’s law. The industry has traditionally relied on gradual improvements in air cooled, solid metal heat sinks to keep pace with change in microprocessor design to provide cost effective solution for removing from microprocessors. In Cray’s XT-4 system, chip power density is expected to almost double that of it’s Red Storm/XT-3 predecessors, while maintaining the same cabinet size.
Establishing and maintaining formations of mini quadrotors

Autonomous aerial formations of multiple mini quadrotors require an external localization system. Embedded on-board processing allows for swarm applications in novel environments. Also, application in payload manipulation, surveillance and search-and-rescue can be achieved through this research. A method is discussed to establish and maintain aerial formations of miniature quadrotors using an on-board embedded infrared vision system for image processing and localization.
Electronic structure of large molecular systems

Computations of the electronic structure for molecules with more than 4 to 5 atoms have been traditionally based on semi-empirical techniques. In this paper, a general computer program is described for computations of Self-Consistent Field-Molecular Orbital wave functions for molecules of any geometry and with a large number of nuclei and electrons. The molecular orbitals are linear expansions of symmetry-adapted functions; the latter are linear combinations of so-called “contracted Gaussians.” The “contracted Gaussian set” is a linear expansion of standard gaussian functions, with expansion coefficients obtained from atomic computation with Gaussian set. The use of “contracted Gaussians” decreases drastically the number of matrix elements over symmetry orbitals, and makes the size of the “contracted Gaussian set” comparable with the size of a Slater-type (exponential) basis set. Special provisions are included in the program for the elimination or approximation, or both, of integrals smaller than a preassigned threshold. With these innovations over traditional computations with standard Gaussian function, it is quite feasible to compute large molecular systems. The computer program, written as a preliminary version for the IBM 7094 computer (and now in process of conversion for the IBM System 360), can handle a maximum of 800 Gaussian functions distributed on 50 centers. Gaussian functions are restricted to s, p, d, and f type. In order to gain computer speed, s and p functions are computed with special formulas given in the Appendix. Average computational time for 4 center integrals over s Gaussian (uncontracted) functions is 0.6 milliseconds. This time increases for p type approximately to 2.6 milliseconds. For many-center integrals involving d and f functions, the computing time is rather large, about 25 and 50 milliseconds, respectively. The computational time here quoted is somewhat higher than the time needed in standard computations, since no integral, however small, has been neglected or approximated in the time quoted above. The program has been used for problems involving no more than 44 × 106 million twoelectron integrals. Larger computations can be done with our present program; however, one should consider the use of computers possibly with faster C.P.U. and certainly with larger core memory than the IBM 7094-Mod. I. From our preliminary computations, and taking into account both the structure and limits of our present version of the program as well as newly announced high-speed computer specifications, we feel confident in stating that within the next 2 to 4 years “a priori” computations for molecules with about 100–150 electrons and 5–20 atoms will be considered “routine” effort in theoretical chemistry.