cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Extended depth of field adaptive scanning optical microscope (Conference Presentation)

An adaptive scanning optical microscope with extended depth of field (ASOM-EDOF) is described. The system is based on the ASOM developed previously*, and uses a custom-built Thorlabs 0.21NA objective with a 75mm pupil diameter that allows scanned imaging over a circular region of 40mm diameter using fast steering mirror. The microscope is configured for fluorescence imaging with epi-illumination. A 140 actuator, 5.5µm stroke DM is conjugated to the pupil of the objective, and is used in conjunction with a Shack Hartmann wavefront sensor in an adaptive optics loop to measure and compensate errors of the objective as a function of nominal scan angle. At a given scan angle, the microscope camera forms an image of a 200µm x 200µm region with resolution of about 1.4µm. Images recorded at different scan angles can be stitched together to form a larger image mosaic. At each scan angle, the DM has been calibrated not only to compensate astatic aberrations, but also to perform an axial focal sweep: changing shape from concave to convex at high speed during a single camera exposure. This type of extended depth of field (EDOF) imaging (without aberration compensation) has been reported previously**. By combining these two techniques (ASOM and EDOF), a single recorded camera frame includes in-focus light from objects at depths from the nominal objective focus to depths +/-250µm from that focus, corresponding to an extension of the depth of focus by a factor of 100x for this microscope. The image also includes out-of-focus light from all depths. After a simple deconvolution, one can recover the in-focus light from all swept layers, condensed into a 2D image. Calibration details and performance metrics are described, along with example images from large volumetric samples. *Potsaid B, Wen JTY, “Adaptive scanning optical microscope: large field of view and high-resolution imaging using a MEMS deformable mirror,” Journal of Micro-Nanolithography Mems and Moems, [7], 10, (2008). **Shain WJ, Vickers NA, Goldberg BB, Bifano T, Mertz J, “Extended depth-of-field microscopy with a high-speed deformable mirror,” Optics Letters, [42], 995-998, (2017).
The fibre of P-matrices: the recursive construction of all matrices with positive principal minors

P-matrices have positive principal minors and include many well-known matrix classes (positive definite, totally positive, M-matrices, etc.) How does one construct a generic P-matrix? Specifically,...
Reducing image artifact in diffuse optical tomography by iterative perturbation correction based on multiwavelength measurements

Ultrasound (US) guided diffuse optical tomography has demonstrated great potential for breast cancer diagnosis, treatment monitoring, and chemotherapy response prediction. Optical measurements of four different wavelengths are used to reconstruct unknown optical absorption maps, which are then used to calculate the hemoglobin concentration distribution of the US visible lesion. Reconstructed absorption maps are prone to image artifacts from outliers in measurement data from tissue heterogeneity, bad coupling between tissue and light guides, and motion by patient or operator. We propose an automated iterative perturbation correction algorithm to reduce image artifacts based on the structural similarity index (SSIM) of absorption maps of four optical wavelengths. The initial image is estimated from the truncated pseudoinverse solution. The SSIM was calculated for each wavelength to assess its similarity with other wavelengths. An absorption map is repeatedly reconstructed and projected back into measurement space to quantify projection error. Outlier measurements with highest projection errors are iteratively removed until all wavelength images are structurally similar with SSIM values greater than a threshold. Clinical data demonstrate statistically significant improvement in image artifact reduction.
Interactions between motor exploration and reinforcement learning

Motor exploration, the ability to search for the correct actions, is critical to learning motor skills. Despite this, whether and how the level of exploration changes over the course of training re...
Wheels, Brakes, and Landing Gear

The landing gear chapter discusses that subsystem that operates for only a brief period during the takeoff roll and landing cycle. However, despite the brevity of its operation, it provides a vital role to the overall passenger experience. The chapter discusses the change from fixed tail draggers to the moveable tricycle landing gear of today. The stowable landing gear provided a means to reduce overall airplane drag, improve fuel economy, and raise the top speed. This section describes the pressurized struts used to absorb the sink rate energy of the fuselage upon touchdown. Finally, the chapter provides insight into the hydraulic systems used to apply brake pressure and the tremendous energy dissipated and heat built up during a typical braking event upon landing.
Aluminum-Based Promotion of Nucleation of Carbon Dioxide Hydrates.

Gas hydrate formation has several applications in CO2 sequestration, flow assurance, and desalination. Nucleation of hydrates is constrained by very high induction (wait) times, which necessitates ...
Intrauterine Device Use in Adolescents With Disabilities

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are increasingly being used in adolescents and nulliparous women for contraception. Levonorgestrel IUDs also have beneficial effects on bleeding and pain. Although they are recommended for menstrual suppression in adolescents with disabilities, there are limited data on their use in this population. Our objective is to describe the characteristics and experiences of levonorgestrel IUD use in nulliparous children, adolescents, and young adults with physical, intellectual, and developmental disabilities. METHODS: A retrospective chart review was conducted for all nulliparous patients ages ≤22 with physical, intellectual, or developmental disabilities who had levonorgestrel IUDs placed between July 1, 2004, and June 30, 2014, at a tertiary-care children’s hospital. Descriptive statistical analysis and survival analysis were performed. RESULTS: In total, 185 levonorgestrel IUDs were placed in 159 patients with disabilities. The mean age was 16.3 (3.3; range of 9–22) years. Only 4% had ever been sexually active; 96% of IUDs were inserted in the operating room. IUD continuation rate at 1 year was 95% (95% confidence interval: 93%–100%) and at 5 years was 73% (95% confidence interval: 66%–83%). The amenorrhea rate was ∼60% throughout the duration of IUD use among those with available follow-up data. Side effects and complications were ≤3%. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, we provide evidence for the therapeutic benefit and safety of levonorgestrel IUD use in adolescents and young adults with physical, intellectual, and developmental disabilities. It should be considered as a menstrual management and contraceptive option for this population.
Long noncoding RNA MALAT1 and Regulation of the Antioxidant Defense System in Diabetic Retinopathy

The retina experiences increased oxidative stress in diabetes, and the transcriptional activity of Nrf2, which is critical in regulating many antioxidant genes, is decreased. The nuclear movement/transcriptional activity of Nrf2 is mediated by its intracellular inhibitor Keap1, and retinal Keap1 levels are increased in diabetes. Gene expression is also regulated by long noncoding RNAs (LncRNAs). Our aim was to investigate the role of LncRNA MALAT1 in the regulation of Keap1-Nrf2-antioxidant defense in diabetic retinopathy. LncRNA MALAT1 expression (quantitative real-time PCR, immunofluorescence, and RNA sequencing), its interactions with Keap1 (FACS), Keap1-Nrf2 interactions, and transcription of the antioxidant response genes (immunofluorescence and nuclear RNA sequencing) were investigated in retinal endothelial cells exposed to high glucose. Glucose increased LncRNA MALAT1 levels by increasing Sp1 transcription factor binding at its promoter. Downregulation of LncRNA MALAT1 by its siRNA prevented glucose-induced increase in Keap1 and facilitated Nrf2 nuclear translocation and antioxidant gene transcription. Retinal microvessels from streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice and human donors with diabetic retinopathy also presented similar increases in LncRNA MALAT1 and its interactions with Keap1 and decreases in Nrf2-mediated antioxidant defense genes. Thus, LncRNA MALAT1, via Keap1-Nrf2, regulates antioxidant defense in diabetic retinopathy. Inhibition of LncRNA MALAT1 has potential to protect the retina from oxidative damage and to prevent or slow down diabetic retinopathy.
A Response to the Millennium Forum

In my response to the contributors to this forum on Ontological Entanglements I take a few steps down the crossroads they have explored. I reflect on the critiques they moved, on the generative pot...
Photosynthetic Systems Suggest an Evolutionary Pathway to Diderms

Bacteria are divided primarily into monoderms (with one cell membrane, and usually Gram-positive, due to a thick peptidoglycan layer) and diderms (with two cell membranes, and mostly Gram-negative, due to a thin peptidoglycan layer sandwiched between the two membranes). Photosynthetic species are spread among the taxonomic groups, some having type I reaction centers (RCI in monoderm phylum Firmicutes; and diderm phyla Acidobacteria and Chlorobi), others with type II reaction centers (RCII in monoderm phylum Chloroflexi; and diderm taxa Gemmatimonadetes, and alpha-, beta-, and gamma-Proteobacteria), and some containing both (RCI and RCII, only in diderm phylum Cyanobacteria). In most bacterial phylograms, photosystem types and diderm taxa are polyphyletic. A more parsimonious arrangement, which is supported by photosystem evolution, as well as additional sets of molecular characters, suggests that endosymbiotic events resulted in the formation of the diderms. In the model presented, monoderms readily form a monophyletic group, while diderms are produced by at least two endosymbiotic events, followed by additional evolutionary changes.
Pedagogical Practices Shaping Professional Identity in Public Health Programs

University academic preparation plays a critical role in guiding undergraduate public health students shape their professional identity (PI) and demonstrate professionalism in their transition to w...
Descriptive epidemiology of rickettsial infections in Japan: Scrub typhus and Japanese spotted fever, 2007-2016.

Abstract Objective This study aimed to describe the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of endemics of two rickettsial diseases, scrub typhus (ST) and Japanese spotted fever (JSF), in Japan. Methods We conducted a retrospective, descriptive epidemiological assessment of cases notified via national surveillance from 2007–2016. Results Over the 10-year period, 4185 ST and 1765 JSF cases were notified; of these, 20 (0.48%) cases of ST and 16 (0.91%) cases of JSF were fatal at the time of reporting. The elderly had higher notification rates and fatalities. While the annual number of ST notifications was stable and cases were reported from a broad geographic range, the number of JSF reports increased three-fold, expanding from the southwest to the east. The seasonality of ST varied by region and was more common during spring/summer in the north and autumn/winter in the south; 78% of cases occurred during autumn/winter, mainly in the southern region. Most of the fatal ST cases occurred in the spring/summer and occurred in the northern region. Conclusion Our analysis identified seasonal and regional variations in the distribution of rickettsiosis. These variations were most likely to be related to the ecology of the vectors and etiological agents. Knowing the recent epidemiological and clinical features of ST and JSF can support clinical diagnosis and guide preventative activities against these vector-borne diseases.
Coming to Terms: Applying Contract Theory to the Detroit Water Shutoffs

After the City of Detroit underwent financial takeover and filed the largest municipal bankruptcy in American history in 2013, the city’s emergency manager encouraged mass water shutoffs as a way of making the city’s water utility a more attractive asset for sale. The sale never took place, but the water shutoff, too, became the largest ever in American history, with over 141,000 homes subjected to water disconnections over a period of over six years. The governor of the State of Michigan ordered that the shutoffs be temporarily suspended for the duration of the COVID-19 health emergency in March 2020, and that water be restored to homes that had been disconnected from water services. Human and civil rights activists and health officials have long sought the end of the shutoff campaign based on its disproportionate impact upon Black people, its subjection of people to sub-human living conditions and serious health risks, and its ineffectiveness. Pleading violations of civil and human rights laws, however, has proven unavailing; even condemnations from the United Nations have not sufficed to convince the City of Detroit or the State of Michigan to put a permanent end to the water shutoffs, their lack of success and high human cost notwithstanding. This Essay uses contract theory to clarify the relationships between the people of Detroit and the local, state, and federal governmental bodies exercising jurisdiction over them, and to explain why the shutoffs persist. A racial contract exists amongst Michigan’s white body politic which seeks the exploitation of Black people and resources—including Detroit’s water. Performance of the contract requires the dehumanization and exclusion of Black Detroiters in order to establish and maintain a rent-seeking order in which Black people effectively subsidize the delivery of water and sewage services to white suburbanites who view Black governance and Black proprietorship as a breach of the social order for which they bargained. The City of Detroit has been able to rely on anti-Black narratives and beliefs to create the mirage of a contractual relationship with Detroit residents that Detroiters have breached; in reality, however, Black people lack contractual capacity under the terms of the racial contract, and the City of Detroit and the regional water authority treat Black people’s use of water as an externality resolved through taxation.
Evaluation of a flash glucose monitoring system in nondiabetic dogs with rapidly changing blood glucose concentrations.

BACKGROUND A flash glucose monitoring system (FGMS; FreeStyle Libre) is useful for monitoring hypoglycemic dogs with diabetes. OBJECTIVE To assess the utility of this FGMS in dogs with induced hypoglycemia and rapid fluctuations in blood glucose (BG) concentrations. ANIMALS Twenty-four apparently healthy research (n = 10) and teaching (n = 14) dogs. METHODS Prospective, observational study performed in tandem with a teaching laboratory. Regular insulin was administered to dogs and resulting hypoglycemia was corrected. Before insulin administration and every 10 minutes over a 90-minute period, serial measurements of interstitial glucose (IG) with FGMS and BG with a portable blood glucose meter (PBGM) and clinical chemistry analyzer concentrations were made. Portable blood glucose meter and FGMS readings were compared to that of the clinical chemistry analyzer. Analytical and clinical accuracy were assessed using ISO 15197:2013 criteria, including Parkes error grid analysis. RESULTS The proportions of readings in the low BG range (BG <100 mg/dL) for which the test method measurement was within ±15 mg/dL of the reference BG for the PBGM and FGMS were 81.7% (161/197) and 39.1% (72/184), respectively. The proportions of readings for the PBGM and FGMS, which were not likely to affect clinical outcome according to Parkes error grid analysis, were 97.9% (233/238) and 80.1% (177/221), respectively. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE In this model, there was limited agreement between the FGMS and reference standard BG measurements. The FGMS (measuring IG concentrations) was compared to peripheral BG concentrations, not brain-tissue glucose concentrations, and failed to reliably detect hypoglycemia.
Considerations for creating library learning spaces within a hierarchy of learning space attributes

Abstract University libraries struggle to keep up with rapidly changing technology and the associated change in teaching strategy. Most administrators and librarians are often not trained to assess space needs and struggle to reassign library spaces for non-traditional library use. As such, they often embark on expensive and time-consuming feasibility studies, using (typically) hard-earned monies to complete the research or to pilot a new space. What academic research library administrators and staff lack is guidance for discovering and planning needed renovations and improvements in aging library facilities. The purpose of this research project was to develop a set of considerations that can be used by library staff to self-analyze existing academic library spaces and identify areas that can be effectively improved for student benefit. The end result is a series of hierarchical self-analysis space considerations with a structured framework based on Abraham Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs. The results of this research use evidence-based design to facilitate important conversations, and provide an organized quick reference checklist of various considerations for library administrators and facility managers as they navigate the world of twenty-first century pedagogy and student learning.
Risk controlled decision trees and random forests for precision Medicine.

Statistical methods generating individualized treatment rules (ITRs) often focus on maximizing expected benefit, but these rules may expose patients to excess risk. For instance, aggressive treatment of type 2 diabetes (T2D) with insulin therapies may result in an ITR which controls blood glucose levels but increases rates of hypoglycemia, diminishing the appeal of the ITR. This work proposes two methods to identify risk-controlled ITRs (rcITR), a class of ITR which maximizes a benefit while controlling risk at a prespecified threshold. A novel penalized recursive partitioning algorithm is developed which optimizes an unconstrained, penalized value function. The final rule is a risk-controlled decision tree (rcDT) that is easily interpretable. A natural extension of the rcDT model, risk controlled random forests (rcRF), is also proposed. Simulation studies demonstrate the robustness of rcRF modeling. Three variable importance measures are proposed to further guide clinical decision-making. Both rcDT and rcRF procedures can be applied to data from randomized controlled trials or observational studies. An extensive simulation study interrogates the performance of the proposed methods. A data analysis of the DURABLE diabetes trial in which two therapeutics were compared is additionally presented. An R package implements the proposed methods ( https://github.com/kdoub5ha/rcITR).
An Exemplar-based Approach to Automatic Burst Detection in Spontaneous Speech

This paper introduces a novel algorithm for detecting burst in voiceless stops in spontaneous speech. This algorithm uses an exemplar-based approach for detecting aspiration noise, and avoids the normalization problem since the exemplars are inherently speaker-specific and environment-specific. The algorithm is trained and tested on 19 speakers’ data. The overall error is estimated to be under 5 ms. We also show the wide range of variation in the phonetic makeup of stops in spontaneous speech and how the algorithm is improved to deal
Impact of social capital on food security in southeast Uganda

Assuring food security in Uganda is a fundamental challenge that the government and development agencies face. Recent analyses indicate that some successes have been achieved, but food insecurity gaps still exist, with implications for more concerted investments in a multiplicity of community assets to achieve better results. This study assessed whether social capital is a key asset for achievement of food security in Kamuli district, southeast Uganda. More specifically, it focused on the determinants and levels of participation in food security groups. The study also explored the status, challenges and gaps of information flows in rural communities. Potential relationships between social capital and food security were also examined. Data were collected using a survey (378 randomly sampled households from six subcounties), group discussions (21 groups) and community interviews (12 communities), and analyzed using SPSS and NVIVO. Results indicated that participation in food security groups is affected by socio-demographic, economic and spatial factors. These included age, education level of the household head, a household’s possession of a non-agricultural income source, land acreage owned and distance to health facilities. Participation in a food security group is motivated by perceived benefits such as access to material incentives and capacity building opportunities available to members as well as group leadership style and mutual trust among members. The level of partnerships -– other groups, organizations and institutions with which groups work in development interventions -was low. For groups with partnerships, members wished that they continue working with them for an indefinite period, an indication of dependency. Information was accessed from a variety of sources including local community members and leaders, private
Valuation of commodity derivatives in a new multi-factor model

This paper extends existing commodity valuation models to allow for stochastic volatility and simultaneous jumps in the spot price and spot volatility. Closed-form valuation formulas for forwards, futures, futures options, geometric Asian options and commodity-linked bonds are obtained using the Heston (1993) and Bakshi and Madan (2000) methodology. Stochastic volatility and jumps do not affect the futures price at a given point in time. However, numerical examples indicate that they play important roles in pricing options on futures.
Domain Decomposition in Distributed and Shared Memory Environments. I: A Uniform Decomposition and Performance Analysis for the NCUBE and JPL Mark IIIfp Hypercubes

We describe how explicit domain decomposition can lead to implementations of large scale scientific applications which run with near optimal performance on concurrent supercomputers with a variety of architectures. In particular, we show how one can discuss from a uniform point of view two architectural characteristics; distributed memory and hierarchical memory where a large relatively slow memory is buffered by a faster cache or local memory. We consider two hypercubes in particular; the commercial NCUBE and JPL's Mark IIIfp with hierarchical memory at each node of a hypercube. We remark on the application of these ideas to other architectures and other concurrent computers. We present a performance analysis in terms of basic parameters describing the hardware and the applications.
Molecular genetic basis of maple syrup urine disease in a family with two defective alleles for branched chain acyltransferase and localization of the gene to human chromosome 1.

Abstract Maple syrup urine disease in humans results from inherited defects in branched chain alpha-ketoacid dehydrogenase, a mitochondrial multienzyme complex. A variety of genetic changes may produce this phenotype by affecting the function of any of the three complex-specific subunits. The varied clinical expression observed in patients may be partially explained by the defects in the involved subunit. Here we report localization of the gene for the branched chain acyltransferase component of the complex to human chromosome 1 and describe a proband who is a compound heterozygote at this locus. One allele, inherited from the father, produces transcripts with 124 nucleotides deleted from the coding region. The deletion is not found in the branched chain acyltransferase gene, implying that the deleted transcripts arise by an error in transcript processing. Cells from the patient's mother contain 50% of the normal amount of mRNA for the subunit, and the proband has inherited this nonexpressing allele from her. As a result, the proband produces no acyltransferase protein and therefore has greatly impaired complex activity. A phenotypically normal sibling is shown to be genetically similar to the mother having inherited the mother's nonexpressing allele and the father's normal allele.
Deconstructing Ebonic Myths: The First Step in Establishing Effective Intervention Strategies

The current Ebonics debate is plagued with historical bias and media misrepresentation. A review of literature is offered to help provide educators with a clearer picture of how to go about stemming the tide of academic disadvantage for African American youth. A few of the myths investigated by this paper include a belief that the language of African Americans (a) is lazy English, (b) has no African roots, and (c) Is best explained by a culturally deficient model. In addition, this paper challenges the false notion that regional colloquialism, American slang, urban hip-hop vernacular, and true historic Ebonics are all one in the same. Classroom teachers who desire a solution to the problem are often unaware of the complexities that permeate Black language development. Effective intervention requires more than educators adopting a few quick-fix classroom strategies. A seven-step model for teaching mainstream English proficiency to Ebonic-speaking youth is proposed. The first few principles of the model are especially highlighted as important prerequisites to the others.
Seasonal ozone levels and control by seasonal meteorology

Meteorological data, particularly 850-MB level temperatures, for Fort Totten, New York (1980) and Atlantic City, New Jersey (1981-1988) were examined for any relationship to seasonal ozone levels. Other radiosonde stations in the Northeast were utilized for 1983 and 1986, years of widely differing ozone levels. Statistics for selected parameters and years are presented. Emphasis is placed on recurring warm temperature regimes in high ozone years. Successive occurrences or episodes of high temperatures characterize seasonally high ozone years. Seasonally persistent high temperatures are related to seasonally chronic high ozone. An example is presented relating the broad-scale climatologlcally anomalous pattern of high temperatures to anomalous circulation patterns at the 700-MB level.
Microscopic description of the nuclear cluster theory

The purpose of this series of lectures is to explain the foundation of the techniques used in, and the results obtained by a microscopic cluster theory (MCT). In particular, the important role played by the Pauli principle in determining nuclear characteristics will be extensively discussed.
Metabolic Considerations in Prodrug Design

This review concentrates on prodrugs designed by pharmaceutical chemists to overcome biopharmaceutical or pharmacokinetic (essentially metabolic) problems encountered with active principles. The investigations presented in this review illustrate the types of problems pharmaceutical chemists have tried to solve and the metabolic, kinetic, or biopharmaceutical rationale behind these attempts. Although very little published information is available on pharmacokinetic methods useful in the study of prodrugs and on the regulatory requirements needed for prodrug development, the authors have tried to develop some general ideas that might be useful in this regard. Keywords: prodrug design; chemical bond; gastrointestinal absorption; parenteral administration; drug distribution; transdermal absorption; ocular absorption
Low-lying states of F2

Calculated potential energy curves for the 13 lowest electronic states of F2 + are presented. Nine of the potential curves are found to possess substantial binding energies, while two others also display shallow, stable minima. The ordering, binding energies, relative equilibrium separations and vibrational frequencies of these curves should be of utility in helping to assign the large number of observed vibration-rotation lines in the electronic emission spectrum of F2 +. The calculated curves are in reasonable agreement with the available data on the two experimentally observed states.
Presacral Approaches for Minimally Invasive Spinal Fusion

The presacral approach is a novel, minimally invasive approach for achieving L5–S1 discectomy and interbody fusion. We review the relevant anatomy regarding this approach and describe technical aspects of surgery using this technique. We also review outcomes of the AxiaLIF technique in the literature and discuss complications related to the procedure and their management.
New higher order affine time-frequency representations

In the same spirit that the quadratic Wigner distribution and the Altes-Marinovic (1986, 1990) Q-distribution were extended to higher order time-frequency representations, we propose the new higher order Bertrand (1992) P/sub 0/-distribution (HO-P/sub 0/D), as an extension of the quadratic Bertrand P/sub 0/-distribution. We show that the new HO-P/sub 0/D preserves scale changes, and up to a known sign, constant time and hyperbolic time shifts on the signal. We also discuss the importance of the new HO-P/sub 0/D, derive some of its desirable properties, discuss its limitations, and derive a higher order class consisting of smoothed HO-P/sub 0/Ds. Finally, we propose a formulation for a higher order extension of the quadratic affine class which preserves scale changes and constant time shifts.
Conformationally Controlled Chemistry: Excited-State Dynamics Dictate Ground-State Reaction

Ion imaging reveals distinct photodissociation dynamics for propanal cations initially prepared in either the cis or gauche conformation, even though these isomers differ only slightly in energy and face a small interconversion barrier. The product kinetic energy distributions for the hydrogen atom elimination channels are bimodal, and the two peaks are readily assigned to propanoyl cation or hydroxyallyl cation coproducts. Ab initio multiple spawning dynamical calculations suggest that distinct ultrafast dynamics in the excited state deposit each conformer in isolated regions of the ground-state potential energy surface, and, from these distinct regions, conformer interconversion does not effectively compete with dissociation.
Global optimization of mixed‐integer nonlinear problems

Two novel deterministic global optimization algorithms for nonconvex mixed-integer problems (MINLPs) are proposed, using the advances of the αBB algorithm for nonconvex NLPs of Adjiman et al. The special structure mixed-integer αBB algorithm (SMIN-αBB) addresses problems with nonconvexities in the continuous variables and linear and mixed-bilinear participation of the binary variables. The general structure mixed-integer αBB algorithm (GMIN-αBB) is applicable to a very general class of problems for which the continuous relaxation is twice continuously differentiable. Both algorithms are developed using the concepts of branch-and-bound, but they differ in their approach to each of the required steps. The SMIN-αBB algorithm is based on the convex underestimation of the continuous functions, while the GMIN-αBB algorithm is centered around the convex relaxation of the entire problem. Both algorithms rely on optimization or interval-based variable-bound updates to enhance efficiency. A series of medium-size engineering applications demonstrates the performance of the algorithms. Finally, a comparison of the two algorithms on the same problems highlights the value of algorithms that can handle binary or integer variables without reformulation.
Unsettling Master Categories: Notes on Studying the Global in C. W. Mills’ Footsteps

C. W. Mills’ sociology arises out of the problematizing of established “truths.” The aim becomes a sociology that unsettles—not a sociology of unsettlement but a sociology that is itself unsettling. In this short essay I focus on themes that capture one way (mine) of executing C. W. Mills’ challenge to us, academic sociologists. The substantive focus is on what is needed to develop critical globalization studies. The accepted narratives and explanations of globalization have produced the global as a master category that obscures as much as it reveals. We need to generate new questions for research to recover what has been excluded by dominant narratives. And we need to develop conceptual architectures that allow us to detect what we might think of as countergeographies of globalization. Here I focus particularly on types of spaces where we can find resistance to global power and as yet unrecognized forms of participation by actors typically represented as powerless, or victims, or as uninvolved with global conditions. The overall project is a critical remapping of the analytic and political terrain of the global.
A polymerized vinylene carbonate anode binder enhances performance of lithium-ion batteries

Abstract We investigated the use of polymerized vinylene carbonate (polyVC) as a binder for graphite anodes in lithium-ion cells. It functions not only of a traditional binder, but also plays an important role in surface stabilization of graphite in propylene carbonate (PC)-based electrolytes. In an electrolyte with PC content as high as 30 wt%, the polyVC binder enhanced battery performance, with a reversible capacity of ∼170 mAh g −1 at a delithiation rate of 1 C, whereas a comparable graphite cell fabricated with a polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) binder failed to cycle.
WE-A-217A-08: Modeling of Thermal Effects in Antivascular Ultrasound Therapy from Contrast Enhanced Ultrasound Images

Purpose: To study the role of intravascular microbubble‐induced heating resulting from in‐vivo low‐intensity sonication of solid tumors using contrast‐enhanced ultrasoundimages.Methods: Solid tumors are modeled as a compressible inhomogeneous medium that consists of a network of micro‐blood vessels in a microenvironment of cells and interstitial fluids through which microbubbles flow. A mathematical model based on the Penne Bioheat equation was used to calculate the microbubble‐enhanced temperature increase during sonication of solid tumors. This mathematical framework was applied to contrast‐enhanced ultrasoundimages to simulate the in‐vivo conditions of antivascular ultrasound therapy.Results: The results show that the presence of microbubbles causes local heating in the tumor at the locations of the microbubbles in the image. The temperature initially increases rapidly initially as a function of time and then levels off. The temperature elevation calculated as a function of sonication frequency, show that, the maximum temperature change occurs near the resonance frequency of the microbubbles. The mathematical simulations also show that as the flow rate increases, the temperature elevation decreases. Conclusions: Our results show that microbubbles circulating in the blood provide a mechanism for delivering acoustic energy at the location of the microbubbles. Since previous experimental studies show that sonication of intravascular microbubbles disrupt tumor microvessels, antivascular ultrasound treatment has the potential for treating patients with cancer.
Building a New Undergraduate Library Collection

Abstract This article describes the process for building an opening day collection for the new David Adamany Undergraduate Library at Wayne State University in Detroit. The specific philosophy and mission of the undergraduate library shaped the character and content of the collection, guiding decisions concerning subject scope, special collections, relocating materials from the other university libraries, and preferences for electronic over print resources. The article examines problems and successes with finding the best sources for a “core” collection for a new undergraduate library and covers methods for selecting typesb of material: monographs, serials, media and electronics. Budget issues and material expenditure breakdowns are discussed. The article concludes with a perspective on the process and advice for those facing a similar problem or situation.
The role of hospital profit status in pediatric spleen injury management.

Background:Evidence suggests that over 90% of pediatric splenic injuries can be successfully managed nonoperatively. Although pediatric hospitals have rapidly adopted nonoperative management, variability exists among other types of hospitals.Objectives:We tested 2 a priori hypotheses: (1) spleen-inj
Adverse prognostic significance of capsular incision with radical retropubic prostatectomy.

ABSTRACT Purpose: The prognostic significance of capsular incision (CPI) at radical retropubic prostatectomy remains to be defined. To evaluate this we compared prostate specific antigen recurrence for with CPI to that with established pathological groups. Materials and Methods: From January 1998 to December 2000, 409 men underwent radical retropubic prostatectomy at our medical center. CPI was defined as a positive posterior, lateral or posterolateral surgical margin without documented extraprostatic extension (EPE). Excluding patients with preoperative androgen ablation, positive lymph nodes or seminal vesicle involvement there were 129 with organ confined disease and negative surgical margins (pT2/−M), 18 with CPI, 29 with EPE and negative surgical margins (pT3a/−M), and 24 with EPE and positive surgical margins (pT3a/+M). We compared time to biochemical recurrence among these 4 groups using Kaplan-Meier estimates. Cox proportional hazard regression was performed to determine the HR of CPI vs the other groups, while controlling for age, prostate specific antigen, tumor volume and Gleason score. Results: The 3-year likelihood of freedom from biochemical recurrence in the CPI group was 65%, for pT2/−M it was 96%, for pT3a/−M it was 91% and for pT3a/+M it was 58%. The adjusted HR with the 95% CI showed that the risk of biochemical recurrence with CPI was 8.4 times higher than that with pT2/−M (p = 0.002), 5.9 times higher than that with pT3a/−M (p = 0.046) and the same as that with pT3a/+M (p = 0.840). Conclusions: Isolated posterior, lateral and posterolateral CPI by our definition occurs not uncommonly and it may represent true incision of the capsule and/or difficulty in diagnosing EPE due to a lack of extraprostatic tissue in the surgical specimen. However, the prognostic significance of CPI as defined appears similar to that of pT3a with positive margins.
Haemostatic squeezing and purse-string sutures: optimising surgical techniques for early excision of critical infantile haemangiomas

Abstract Background/Purpose Surgical excision of critical infantile haemangiomas (HMs) is usually delayed until intralesional blood flow spontaneously decreases, but fibrofatty tissue and exuberant skin invariably remain even after total involution. The aim of this study was to describe 2 surgical techniques used for early excision in 50 selected cases of HM defined critical in site or size. Methods Among a total of 952 patients affected by HM observed from 1999 to 2005, 50 children (5.2%) were submitted to early surgical removal of the tumour (age range, 6-24 months). In group 1, a technique of lenticular incision and linear closure was used in 34 patients using an original clamp for haemostasis during excision. In group 2, a modified round-block excision and purse-string closure technique was performed in 16 patients. Results Only 2 patients required transfusion to replace intraoperative blood losses. Infection, delayed wound healing, and cheloids occurred in 3 patients in group 2. Satisfactory cosmetic results have been observed in most cases in both groups at a follow-up ranging from 6 months to 6 years. Conclusions The range of indications for early surgical removal of critical HM might be enlarged to achieve earlier the better cosmetic results. A few surgical tricks can minimize intraoperative bleeding and optimise the surgical scar.
Effects of Sevelamer and Calcium-Based Phosphate Binders on Mortality in Hemodialysis Patients: Results of a Randomized Clinical Trial

Background Elevated serum phosphorus and calcium are associated with arterial calcification and mortality in dialysis patients. Sevelamer, a phosphate-binding polymer, attenuates the progression of arterial calcification; it is unknown whether this improves outcomes. Patients and Interventions A randomized comparison of sevelamer and calcium-based phosphate binders was performed in hemodialysis patients treated up to 45 months. The primary endpoint was mortality. Secondary endpoints included cause-specific mortality and hospitalization; 2103 patients were randomized, 2040 received treatment, and 1065 completed treatment. Results Overall mortality was not significantly reduced by sevelamer (adjusted relative risk=0.92; 95% confidence interval, 0.78 to 1.09; log-rank P = .40). Among patients ≥65 years of age, sevelamer reduced the risk of death (adjusted relative risk=0.77; 95% confidence interval, 0.62 to 0.97; log-rank P = .02). Sevelamer patients had a trend toward fewer hospitalizations (P = .06) and fewer hospital days (P = .09). Conclusions A statistically significant reduction in mortality in the overall study population was not observed. Sevelamer was associated with a survival benefit among patients ≥65 years of age.
A knowledge‐based approach to maintenance project planning

Maintenance issues comprise an important, though frequently overlooked, area of manufacturing operations. In smaller companies in particular, expertise for effective maintenance project planning may be lacking. In this paper we discuss the development of an object-oriented expert system to support such project planning. The system was developed to meet the needs of an automotive components manufacturer, and focuses solely on its material-handling-oriented projects. The microcomputer-based expert system considers issues of schedule, inventory availability and cost.
Study of the reactions of oxygen atoms with carbonothioicdichloride, carbonothioicdifluoride, and tetrafluoro‐1,3‐dithietane

The reactions of ground-state oxygen atoms with carbonothioicdichloride, carbonothioicdifluoride, and tetrafluoro-1,3-dithietane have been studied in a crossed molecular jet reactor in order to determine the initial reaction products and in a fast-flow reactor in order to determine their overall rate constants at temperatures between 250 and 500 K. These rate constants are𝔨(O + C2CS) =(3.09 ± 0.54) × 10−11 exp(+115 ± 106 cal/mol/RT),𝔨(O + F2CS) = (1.22 ± 0.19) × 10−11 exp(-747 ± 95 cal/mol/RT), and𝔨(O + F4C2S2) = (2.36 ± 0.52) × 10−11 exp(-1700 ± 128 cal/mol/RT) cm3/molec˙sec. The detected reaction products and their rate constants indicate that the primary reaction mechanism is the electrophilic addition of the oxygen atom to the sulfur atom contained in the reactant molecule to form an energy-rich adduct which then decomposes by C-S bond cleavage.
The social conflict inventory (SCI): A measure of beliefs about classroom peer conflicts

Abstract This study describes the development of the Social Conflict Inventory (SCI), a self‐report teacher belief scale for assessing beliefs about young children's classroom peer conflicts. Three phases were involved in the construction of the SCI: item development, initial testing with one sample (n = 218), and follow‐up field test with a second sample (n = 395) that also addressed the convergent and concurrent validity of the instrument. Reliability and factor analyses conducted during the initial field test resulted in a reduction to 20 items (Cronbach’ s α = .87) with three subscales: General Orientation to Peer Conflict (α = .81), Cessation (α = .84), and Facilitation (α = .65). Similar patterns of factor loadings and reliabilities resulted from analyses of the follow‐up field test data. Overall, the SCI proved to be a reliable instrument for assessing the beliefs concerning the role of classroom conflicts in children's development and for differentiating among groups of teachers. Further use of th...
Intramuscular Administration of Recombinant Adeno-Associated Virus 2 α-1 Antitrypsin (rAAV-SERPINA1) Vectors in a Nonhuman Primate Model: Safety and Immunologic Aspects

We performed a series of studies in baboons to evaluate the safety of intramuscular administration of rAAV vector expressing the α-1 antitrypsin (AAT) gene ( SERPINA1 ) in a nonhuman primate model. Initial experiments performed with an rAAV vector expressing the human SERPINA1 gene (at doses of up to 5×10 12 vector genomes/kg) resulted in the generation of anti-human AAT antibodies, which correlated with a loss of detectable transgene expression. Subsequent studies made use of the baboon SERPINA1 gene tagged with a short (10-amino-acid) c-myc tag. When animals were sacrificed, 4 months after vector injection, transduced myofibers showed efficient transgene expression without detectable humoral immune responses. Mild inflammation was observed in and near the sites of injection in some vector- and saline-injected animals, but serum creatine kinase (CK) values were normal in nearly every case. Real-time PCR was also performed 4 months after injection on gonadal tissue to evaluate the risk of germline transmission. No vector sequences were detected in the gonadal tissues from these animals. These studies indicate that the risks of immune reaction and germline transmission after intramuscular injection of rAAV- SERPINA1 in nonhuman primates are relatively low within the range of vector doses studied.
Accounting aggregation: User preferences and decision making

Abstract This experiment tests the effects of alternative aggregations of accounting data in a simulated portfolio task. Certain entropy-based aggregation criteria were used to prepare differentially aggregated financial statements for use in the task. Subjects made allocations of initial edowments between hypothetical firms, disclosed confidence in their allocation decisions and reported on specific characteristics of the financial statements. Differences in reported usefulness of statement sets furnished were found to be associated strongly with measured information content. The results also provide limited evidence that decisions and judgments of subjects were affected by the information content of the accounting aggregations provided.
IMPACT OF GENDER ON OUTCOME AFTER ATRIAL FIBRILLATION ABLATION: A META-ANALYSIS

Limited data suggests that females may have increased recurrence of atria fibrillation (AF) after AF ablation. We intended to confirm this by performing a meta-analysis of studies reporting gender specific outcomes after AF ablation. A PubMed search with term “Atrial Fibrillation Ablation”
Synthesis of multi-element thin-films using mixed metal plasma streams

Abstract Multi-element thin films of complex structure have been formed by an ion-energy-controlled, plasma-based method. Metal plasmas produced by two independent, filtered, vacuum arc guns are directed toward the substrate and mixed together in a magnetic multipole plasma homogenizer. Ion energy is controlled by repetitively pulse-biasing the substrate, providing a means to enhance adhesion between the substrate and the growing film (by ion mixing at the interface) as well as to modify the film microstructure (by ion assisted deposition). Here we outline the plasma/ion beam technique and present some examples of films produced, including silicon-aluminum oxides, and films of refractory metal carbides. For Al : Si oxides, two plasma sources were used in an oxygen background and the Al : Si ratio in the films was controlled by varying the relative arc duration; films with Al : Si ratios varying from 2 : 1 to 8 : 1 were produced. For the case of carbide films, Ti and C plasma streams were mixed so as to form films of Ti x C y . As well as monolithic films, we have also used this plasma technique to form multilayer structures of TiC : DLC. The method provides a relatively simple and convenient approach to the plasma synthesis of complex multi-element thin films and multilayer structures.