cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A user study of visualization effectiveness using EEG and cognitive load

Effectively evaluating visualization techniques is a difficult task often assessed through feedback from user studies and expert evaluations. This work presents an alternative approach to visualization evaluation in which brain activity is passively recorded using electroencephalography (EEG). These measurements are used to compare different visualization techniques in terms of the burden they place on a viewer's cognitive resources. In this paper, EEG signals and response times are recorded while users interpret different representations of data distributions. This information is processed to provide insight into the cognitive load imposed on the viewer. This paper describes the design of the user study performed, the extraction of cognitive load measures from EEG data, and how those measures are used to quantitatively evaluate the effectiveness of visualizations.
Plasma triglyceride level is an independent predictor of altered left ventricular relaxation.

Background Diastolic dysfunction, manifested by impaired left ventricular (LV) relaxation, is prevalent among individuals with metabolic disorders. The objective of this study was to evaluate the extent to which plasma triglyceride (TG) levels are related to LV diastolic function. Methods A total of 424 subjects (age 49 ± 12 years) had fasting plasma TG levels measured and underwent echocardiography for assessment of LV structure and function: LV ejection fraction and LV mass indexed to height (LVM/Ht 2.7 ); transmitral inflow early diastolic peak velocity (E wave) and late diastolic peak velocity (A wave), and E wave to A wave ratio (E/A); deceleration time; and Doppler tissue imaging early diastolic myocardial velocity (EM), an index of LV relaxation. Results All subjects had normal LV ejection fraction, 48% had hypertension, 16% had increased LVM/Ht 2.7 , 11% had type 2 diabetes mellitus, 37% were obese, and 27% had hypertriglyceridemia (TG > 150 mg/dL). Univariate analysis showed significant relationships between TG level and E/A, deceleration time, and Em ( P ≤ .001 for all). After adjustment for potential confounders in multivariate models (eg, age, systolic blood pressure, and LVM/Ht 2.7 ), TG levels remained predictive of E/A, deceleration time, and Em ( P ≤ .05, Conclusions Plasma TG levels show a strong relationship with impaired LV relaxation, an early marker of diastolic dysfunction in human beings. These findings support a hypothesis whereby elevated TG levels favor myocyte intracellular lipid accumulation, possibly leading to lipotoxic diastolic dysfunction.
Rheology of polyphosphazene melts and solutions—some surprises

Rheological tests are reported for two types of polyorganophosphazenes, one being a fluorinated alkoxy terpolymer (PNFT) and the other an aryloxy copolymer (PAP). Non-Newtonian viscosity η() and complex viscosity components η′(ω) and η″(ω) were measured as functions of shear rate and oscillatory frequency ω, using a Weissenberg rheogoniometer, and a limited amount of normal stress data was also obtained. Solutions of both polymers in tetrahydrofuran were tested, over a concentration range 0-22 percent for PNFT and 0-35 percent for PAP. Melts of PNFT were examined for temperatures 50-178°C, and melts of PAP at 210°C even though they were not truly fluid at this temperature. Solution and melt data are shown to obey conventional superposition principles to give master curves. For solutions, superposition is achieved by using the Bueche relaxation time as a concentration reducing factor with no adjustable parameters, and the Spriggs model also proves useful in predicting normal stress and shear stress results. For PNFT melts, master curves are fitted by the new WS2H2 model which incorporates detailed molecular weight distribution (MWD) information and extracts the entanglement length Me from the data. Temperature shift factors aT show Arrhenius behavior and the corresponding activation energies Ere are reported. Results for PNFT melts were complicated by lack of agreement between two samples of nominally the same composition; η′(ω) shapes and levels and Ere values differed widely. This is interpreted in terms of detailed MWD information and the possibility of mesomorphic phase transitions occurring in these nominally amorphous materials.
A Survey of Programs and Services for Learning Disabled Students in Graduate and Professional Schools

A survey seeking information about programs and services for learning disabled (LD) students was sent to 703 graduate and professional schools in the United States. Respondents (n = 223) indicated that only 24% had developed a written plan which described services to LD students—a minimal requirement for compliance under Sec. 504. Most frequently, respondents reported offering “support-type” services, although such services were available in only 46% of the responding institutions. Specific services, program accommodations, and other program features are discussed. In addition to the apparent noncompliance with Sec. 504, the implications of the results of this survey are discussed.
Evaluating natural interaction techniques in video games

Despite the gaming industry's recent trend for using “natural” interaction techniques, which mimic real world actions with a high level of fidelity, it is not clear how natural interaction techniques affect the player experience. In order to obtain a better understanding, we designed and conducted a study using Mario Kart Wii, a commercial racing game for the Nintendo Wii. We chose this platform due to its seemingly balanced design of both natural and non-natural interaction techniques. Our empirical study of these techniques found that the non-natural interaction techniques significantly outperform their more natural counterparts. We offer three hypotheses to explain our finding and suggest them as important interaction design considerations.
Distinct trajectories in the transition to adulthood: are children of immigrants advantaged?

Studies on children of immigrants have generally ignored distinct developmental trajectories during adolescence and their role in the transition to adulthood. This study identifies distinct trajectories in cognitive, sociobehavioral, and psychological domains and estimates their consequences for young adults. Drawing data from a nationally representative sample of 10,795 adolescents aged 13–17 who were followed up to ages 25–32, the study uses growth mixture modeling to test advantages for children of immigrants. The analysis shows a 1.5-generation advantage in academic achievement and school engagement, as well as a weaker second-generation advantage in academic achievement, but no disadvantage in depression for children of immigrants. In addition, these results hold for children of Hispanic origin. Theoretical and policy implications are discussed.
On Scalability of Routing Tables in Dense Flat-Label Wireless Networks

Consider a large wireless ad hoc network that facilitates communication between random pairs of network nodes. This paper investigates the size of routing tables as the number of nodes in the network increases. A routing protocol in a flat-label network is information-efficient if the amount of information at individual nodes required to route packets does not increase with the network size. It is shown that the shortest-path and straight-line routing algorithms are not information-efficient, i.e., these protocols can be implemented only when nodes' memory increases with the network size. On the other hand, it is established that there exists an information-efficient algorithm that routes packets correctly even if each node in the network is capable of storing information on a fixed number of destinations only.
A World at Arms: A Global History of World War II

Preface Introduction 1. From one war to another 2. The German and Soviet attacks on Poland 3. The world turned upside down 4. The expanding conflict 5. The Eastern Front and a changing war 6. Halting the Japanese advance, halting the German advance: keeping them apart and shifting the balance 7. The war at sea 1942-44 and the blockade 8. The war in Europe and North Africa 1940-43: to and from Stalingrad, to and from Tunis 9. The Home Front 10. Means of warfare: old and new 11. The war from the spring of 1943 to summer 1944 12. The assault on Germany from all sides 13. Tensions in both alliances 14. The halt on the European fronts 15. The final assault on Germany 16. The war in the Pacific: from Leyte to the 'Missouri' Conclusions: the cost and impact of the war Abbreviations Bibliographic essay Endnotes Index.
Multiple initiation mechanisms adapt phage T4 DNA replication to physiological changes during T4's development

We summarize the evidence for multiple pathways to initiate phage T4 DNA replication. In any infecting chromosome, leading DNA strands can be primed from pre-replicative transcripts, independent of primase activity, at one of several origins. Within each origin region, there are multiple RNA—DNA transition sites. However, the priming potential at each single site is very low. Our results suggest that origin transcripts can become primers for leading strand DNA synthesis without being processed, but that a promoter-proximal segment of each origin transcript plays an important structural role, as a proposed wedge, in the transition from RNA to DNA synthesis. Two recombination-dependent pathways render subsequent phage T4 DNA replication independent of transcription. The first of these requires proteins that are synthesized during the pre-replicative phase of infection. It is active as soon as the first growing points, initiated at origins, have reached a chromosomal end. The other one requires at least one late protein: endonuclease VII, a resolvase that cuts recombinational junctions. The latter pathway can bypass primase deficiencies by allowing retrograde DNA synthesis without Okazaki pieces. We discuss the integration of these multiple and redundant pathways into the developmental program of T4. Competition between these initiation mechanisms and with other DNA transactions allows for integration of replication controls with transcription, recombination and packaging of the DNA.
Area per Lipid and Acyl Length Distributions in Fluid Phosphatidylcholines Determined by 2H NMR Spectroscopy

Deuterium ((2)H) NMR spectroscopy provides detailed information regarding the structural fluctuations of lipid bilayers, including both the equilibrium properties and dynamics. Experimental (2)H NMR measurements for the homologous series of 1, 2-diacyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholines with perdeuterated saturated chains (from C12:0 to C18:0) have been performed on randomly oriented, fully hydrated multilamellar samples. For each lipid, the C-D bond order parameters have been calculated from de-Paked (2)H NMR spectra as a function of temperature. The experimental order parameters were analyzed using a mean-torque potential model for the acyl chain segment distributions, and comparison was made with the conventional diamond lattice approach. Statistical mechanical principles were used to relate the measured order parameters to the lipid bilayer structural parameters: the hydrocarbon thickness and the mean interfacial area per lipid. At fixed temperature, the area decreases with increasing acyl length, indicating increased van der Waals attraction for longer lipid chains. However, the main effect of increasing the acyl chain length is on the hydrocarbon thickness rather than on the area per lipid. Expansion coefficients of the structural parameters are reported and interpreted using an empirical free energy function that describes the force balance in fluid bilayers. At the same absolute temperature, the phosphatidylcholine (PC) series exhibits a universal chain packing profile that differs from that of phosphatidylethanolamines (PE). Hence, the lateral packing of phospholipids is more sensitive to the headgroup methylation than to the acyl chain length. A fit to the area per lipid for the PC series using the empirical free energy function shows that the PE area represents a limiting value for the packing of fluid acyl chains.
Recursive Automatic Bias Selection for Classifier Construction

The results of empirical comparisons of existing learning algorithms illustrate that each algorithm has a selective superioritys each is best for some but not all tasks. Given a data set, it is often not clear beforehand which algorithm will yield the best performance. In this article we present an approach that uses characteristics of the given data set, in the form of feedback from the learning process, to guide a search for a tree-structured hybrid classifier. Heuristic knowledge about the characteristics that indicate one bias is better than another is encoded in the rule base of the Model Class Selection (MCS) system. The approach does not assume that the entire instance space is best learned using a single representation languages for some data sets, choosing to form a hybrid classifier is a better bias, and MCS has the ability to determine these cases. The results of an empirical evaluation illustrate that MCS achieves classification accuracies equal to or higher than the best of its primitive learning components for each data set, demonstrating that the heuristic rules effectively select an appropriate learning bias.
Option pricing for inventory management and control

We explore the use of option contracts as a means of managing and controlling inventories in a retail market. Specifically, merchants can buy option contracts on unsold inventories of retail goods in an effort to hedge, pool, or transfer risk. We propose a new kind of European put option on an inventory where the holder is allowed to freely adjust the original sale price of the underlying good throughout the contract period as a means of controlling demand. Assuming the retailer will chose the profit maximizing pricing policy, we can price the option accordingly.
Current concepts in diet and prostate cancer

Increasing evidence suggests that diet influences the initiation and progression of prostate cancer. Herein, we review associations of specific foods and nutrients with prostate cancer, summarizing important and clinically relevant emerging data on this complex topic. Foods and nutrients associated with a decreased risk of prostate cancer include lycopene, soy, cruciferous vegetables, vitamin E and selenium. Although prospective clinical trials of dietary supplements and dietary modification to prevent or control prostate cancer are underway, definitive clinical evidence is currently lacking.
Suicidality in adolescent populations: A review of the extant literature through the lens of the interpersonal theory of suicide

Suicide is a leading cause of death in adolescent populations. While numerous risk factors have been identified for adolescent suicidality, the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. The current manuscript attempts to elucidate these mechanisms through the application of the interpersonal theory for suicide. A review of the published literature is presented with an emphasis on risk and protective factors for adolescent suicidality. Current risk assessment protocols and treatment approaches are then summarized. We conclude with recommendations for future research.
In Vitro Culture of Pisolithus Tinctorius Mycelium

(1969). In Vitro Culture of Pisolithus Tinctorius Mycelium. Mycologia: Vol. 61, No. 1, pp. 195-198.
Immunologic Cross-reactions of Enterotoxins from Escherichia coli and Vibrio cholerae

Immunologic similarities among enterotoxins from four serotypes of Escherichia coli and from one strain of Vibrio cholerae, all isolated in India from adults with severe diarrhea, were studied in the ileal-loop model in rabbits. The animals were immunized with preparations of enterotoxin of known biological activity and consisting of dialyzed, lyophilized culture filtrates; antitoxin activity of the immune sera was determined by neutralization of the different enterotoxins. These enterotoxins produced by different serotypes of E. coli were immunologically crossreactive, related to cell-wall antigens, and antigenically related to V. cholerae enterotoxin. Immunization with E. coli enterotoxins, however, failed to protect ileal loops against challenge with enterotoxin, while immunization with V. cholerae enterotoxin conferred protection against homologous challenge, but did not protect against challenge with E. coli enterotoxin. These results indicate the theoretical feasibility of further study of preparations of common antigen as possible vaccines against enterotoxic diarrhea mediated by E. coli.
Heaving and pitching oscillating foil propulsion in ground effect

Abstract A detailed series of experiments is performed to investigate the ‘ground effect’ experienced by propulsive flapping foils operating near a solid boundary. A high aspect ratio foil is towed at constant speed and oscillated in pitch and heave at varying distances from a rigid wall. It is shown that this distance has a significant impact on the lift and thrust forces generated by the foil, both in the time averaged mean forces and the phase averaged periodic forces. For some thrust producing kinematics, the instantaneous force profile may change significantly without altering the time averaged mean force; thus, mean force measurements alone are not sufficient to indicate the proximity, or the effect, of the solid boundary. Results are presented across a wide range of thrust generating kinematics, showing that the strength of the ground effect can be modulated, for any achievable level of thrust, through appropriate selection of kinematics. This finding in particular has significance for underwater vehicles propelled by oscillating foil thrusters, as it follows that the sensitivity of the thrusters to ground effect can be controlled independently of the desired thrust. While propulsive efficiency is increased slightly near the wall for some kinematics, in general this does not occur for kinematics where a strong ground cushion (repulsion) effect is observed. Finally, the results suggest that span-wise flow around the tip of the foil is important in determining whether the foil is repelled from or pulled into the wall.
Food accessory substances and the nitrite bacteria

In the isolation of nitrifying bacteria, soil is inoculated into a synthetic solution containing (NH4)2 SO4 as a source of nitrogen for the “nitrite” bacteria and into one containing NaNO2 for the “nitrate” bacteria. The solutions are incubated and when a test for nitrites is found in one case or a test for nitrates in the other, a small amount of the liquid is transferred to a new synthetic solution. This transferring is continued for some time. Then the material is plated out on silica jelly containing suitable inorganic salts. From the colonies developing, inoculations are made into synthetic solution and if nitrites are formed in the one containing (NH4)2 SO4 a “nitrite”bacteria has been isolated or if nitrates are formed where NaNO2 is the source of nitrogen a“nitrate”bacteria has been isolated.Great difficulty was experienced in isolating cultures by the above procedure. At the beginning, in no case where inoculations from the colonies on silica jelly were made into the synthetic solution, were posi...
African agency? Africa, South Africa and the BRICS

African states, economies and societies are increasingly ambivalent about Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (the BRICS), especially their latest, fifth member, South Africa, as economic growth comes with costs, shorter- and longer-term, from social to ecological. ‘Emerging’ economies, powers and societies may claim to be ‘developmental’ but they still confront challenges of governance, especially of their non-renewable natural resources. Symbolic of the price of growth is continuing migration into South Africa, uneven scores on a range of indicators – African Capacity Building Indicators (ACBI), Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), Human Development Index (HDI), Fragile States, Ibrahim Index and so on – and the West African Commission on Drugs (WACD). The African Mining Vision (AMV) remains problematic despite or because of the BRICS.
Revelation to Weapon Equipment Construction Based on Integrative Joint Firepower Strike

This paper analyzes the basic characteristics and principles of integrative firepower strike,and brings forward the revelation to weapon equipment construction based on integrative joint firepower strike.
Advances in T Cell Immunity and Hypertension Research

Essential hypertension involves multiple factors acting in concert.Recently it has become apparent that the immune system plays an important role in the occurrence of hypertension,and it its development and treatment.T lymphocytes are immune cells involved in physiopathological and inflammatory processes of hypertension.In recent years,the relationship between regulatory T cells(Treg) and hypertension has been examined.Tregs are a potential option in the treatment of hypertension.This review focuses on advances made in understanding the relationship between T cell immunity and hypertension.
Properties of Amino Acids

Abstract: This chapter delivers an overview of the properties of the 20 standard amino acids that compose mammalian proteins. The general structure is presented, and the changes in ionization states with pH are reviewed. Hydrophilic and hydrophobic amino acids classes and characteristics are described. The dietarily essential amino acids are explained, and the location of metabolism of AAAs and BCAAs is identified. The structural and functional differences between cysteine and cysteine are outlined. Coverage of the form of homocysteine when accumulated in blood and urine is covered. The reasons for the normal plasma BCAA:AAA ratio of 3:1 is discussed, as are factors that could alter such. The reason for Thr possessing four enantiomers, while Ser has only two, is discussed.
Perspectives on digital microfluidics

Abstract Digital microfluidics (DMF) is a technique for manipulation of discrete droplets on a substrate, which allows timed motion of fluids, with accurate control, representing an alternative to steer away from the conventional paradigm of transporting fluids in enclosed channels. This review addresses the techniques for droplet control, starting with the most common, involving forces of electric origin, followed by other methods currently utilized. A discussion of the basic geometries employed, often utilizing AC voltages, is followed by a section discussing current alternatives to reduce the interaction between droplet and surfaces, frequently associated with device failure. Subsequent sections address the interfacing of DMF with other techniques, and current applications, which include topics like immunoassays, nucleic acids, proteins, cells, and studies of multicellular organisms. In addition, the integration with electromechanical systems and semiconductor structures, with still a modest number of applications, can potentially impact the development of new technologies.
Between intimacy and enmity: Spain and the Philippines post-Suez

ABSTRACTThis essay explores the Philippines’s geopolitical orientation vis-a-vis late nineteenth-century Spain amid nation-building efforts and changing maritime infrastructure. The period in question represents a turning point for Spain’s transpacific empire, not only because of the emergent political discourse on nationhood, but also because, following the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869, state actors and intellectuals alike began to experience and engage with the once-remote colony differently. I argue that the Suez Canal, which profoundly changed the temporal-spatial contours of empire, prompted writers, artists and statesmen on both sides of the Pacific to imagine empire through the trope of intimacy.
PV ramp rate smoothing using energy storage to mitigate increased voltage regulator tapping

A control algorithm is designed to smooth the variability of PV power output using distributed batteries. The tradeoff between smoothing and battery size is shown. It is also demonstrated that large numbers of highly distributed current, voltage, and irradiance sensors can be utilized to control the distributed storage in a more optimal manner. It is also demonstrated that centralized energy storage control for PV ramp rate smoothing requires very fast communication, typically less than a 15-second update rate. Finally, advanced inverter dynamic reactive current is shown to provide voltage variability smoothing, hence reducing the number of voltage regulator tap changes without energy storage.
Emergency Medicine Faculty Are Poor at Predicting Burnout in Individual Trainees: An Exploratory Study.

Objective Burnout is common among emergency medicine (EM) physicians, and it is prevalent even among EM trainees. Recently proposed Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education requirements encourage faculty to alert residency leadership when trainees display signs of burnout. It remains uncertain how trainees experiencing burnout can be reliably identified. We examined if EM faculty advisers at one institution can accurately predict burnout in their EM resident advisees. Methods In this cross-sectional, exploratory study at a single institution, we measured EM trainee burnout using the Maslach Burnout Inventory through a confidential, electronic survey. We subsequently asked EM faculty to predict if their designated advisees were experiencing burnout through a separate confidential, electronic survey. Burnout results were dichotomized from each survey and compared using a 2 × 2 contingency table and Fisher's exact test. Results Thirty-six of 54 (66.7%) eligible EM trainees completed the burnout assessment. Eleven of 19 (57.9%) eligible faculty advisers completed trainee burnout predictions, resulting in 30 of 54 (55.6%) trainees who completed the burnout assessment and had a faculty burnout prediction. Trainees reported an overall burnout rate of 70.0% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 53.6% to 86.4%). Cumulative faculty predictions of trainee burnout resulted in an overall burnout rate of 16.7% (95% CI = -5.3% to 38.7%). The sensitivity and specificity of faculty predictions of trainee burnout were 19.1% (95% CI = 5.5% to 41.9%) and 88.9% (95% CI = 51.8% to 99.7%), respectively. Faculty prediction of trainee burnout had a positive predictive value of 80.0% (95% CI = 28.4% to 99.5%) and a negative predictive value of 32.0% (95% CI = 15.0% to 53.5). The difference between trainees' reported rate of burnout and faculty predictions of trainee burnout was significant (p < 0.001). Conclusion Emergency medicine faculty prediction of trainee burnout was poor. Education on recognizing burnout and other methods of identifying trainee burnout may be necessary.
Alagille syndrome: Genetics and Functional Models.

We review the genetics of the autosomal dominant, multi-system disorder Alagille syndrome, and provide a summary on how current functional models and emerging biotechnologies are equipped to guide scientists towards novel therapies. The importance of haploinsufficiency as a disease mechanism will be underscored throughout this discussion. Alagille syndrome, a human disorder affecting the liver, heart, vasculature, kidney, and other systems, is caused by mutations in the Notch signaling pathway ligand, Jagged1 (JAG1) or the receptor, NOTCH2. Current advances in animal modeling, in vitro cell culture, and human-induced pluripotent stem cells provide new opportunities in which to study disease mechanisms and manifestations. We anticipate that the availability of innovative functional models will allow scientists to test new gene therapies or small molecule treatments in physiologically-relevant systems. With these advances, we look forward to the development of new methods to help Alagille syndrome patients.
Some results on the asymptotic behaviour of solutions to the Navier-Stokes equations

The study of the lower bounds is a much more subtle problem than the one corresponding to the upper bounds. The solutions to Navier-Stokes, unlike the solutions to the heat equation, do not decay at arbitrarily large algebraic rates or even exponentially depending on how oscillatory the initial data is. More precisely, solutions to Navier-Stokes outside a set M of radially equidistributed data have an algebraic lower bound of decay rate which is independent of the oscillations of the data and depends only on the number of dimensions of the space. The algebraic lower bound is a consequence of the nonlinear structure of the equations. The inertial term div(u ® u) in the Navier-Stokes equations appears to convert short-waves into long-waves reducing the decay rate. For data in M an example suggested by A. Majda shows that there are exponentially decaying solutions.
Memory concerns in the early Alzheimer's disease prodrome: Regional association with tau deposition.

Abstract Introduction Relationship between self– and informant memory concerns and tau aggregation was assessed in adults at risk for Alzheimer's disease (AD). Methods Regional mean standardized uptake value ratios were extracted from [ 18 F]flortaucipir positron emission tomography (PET) scans of 82 at-risk adults in the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) cohort. Associations between self– and informant ECog memory scores and tau aggregation were analyzed on both regional and voxelwise bases. Analyses were completed both on the whole sample and restricted to amyloid-positive individuals only. Results Memory concerns were associated with tau aggregation. Self-perception was more associated with frontal tau. In contrast, informant scores were more associated with parietal tau. This source-by-region interaction was more prominent in amyloid-positive participants and observed in both regional and voxelwise analyses. Discussion Quantitative assessment of perceived memory functioning may be useful for screening older adults at risk for Alzheimer's disease. Individuals and their informants may provide complementary information relating to the anatomical distribution of tau.
Explaining technological change in the US wind industry: Energy policies, technological learning, and collaboration

Abstract This paper examines the drivers of technological change in the US wind industry from perspectives of technological learning, collaboration, and energy policies. Using a panel of 576 utility-scale wind farms between 2001 and 2012, this paper estimates the impacts of different learning mechanisms—learning through research and development in wind turbine manufacturing, learning from a wind farm operator or a turbine manufacturer's previous project experience, learning through collaboration among wind project participants, and knowledge spillovers—on technological change of wind power, measured as improved capacity factor. Empirical findings suggest that a wind farm's performance has improved over time as the project operator accumulates more experience. Moreover, its collaboration with turbine manufacturers and the transmission system operator leads to greater performance improvement, particularly when the transmission system is coordinated by an independent system operator or a regional transmission organization (ISO/RTO). This finding supports the institutional change in the US electricity market deregulation—the creation of ISO/RTOs. The ISO/RTO-governed transmission networks promote wind power integration through regional collaboration and coordination. In addition, evidence of knowledge spillovers on wind farm operation at the state level provides justifications for state energy policies that subsidize wind power generation.
The First Fixed-Bed Methanol-to-Gasoline (MTG) Plant: Design and Scale-Up Considerations

Abstract The first commercial application of the Mobil Methanol-to-Gasoline (MTG) process is now in operation for over a year in the Gas-to-Gasoline (GTG) Complex in New Zealand. The unique catalyst and reaction mechanism impose important design constraints. The paper discusses the scale-up considerations in the design of the fixed-bed reactor system. Design philosophy and selection of equipment to meet the stipulated process and operating objectives are reviewed. Such unique designs for this plant's effluent heat exchanger and the utilization of computer dynamic simulation for design control will be highlighted.
Distributed K-Median Clustering with Application to Image Clustering.

Developing algorithms suitable for distributed environments is important as data becomes more distributed. This paper proposes a distributed KMedian clustering algorithm for use in a distributed environment with centralized server, such as the Napster model in a peer-to-peer environment. Several approximate methods for computing the median in a distributed environment are proposed and analyzed in the context of the iterative KMedian algorithm. The proposed algorithm allows the clustering of multivariate data while ensuring that each cluster representative remains an item in the collection. This facilitates exploratory analysis where retaining a representative in the collection is important, such as imaging applications. Introduction and Background ● K-Means clustering is a well known and popular clustering technique. – Creates a new mean vector, which may not be meaningful in many applications ● Using the centroid of a cluster rather than the mean is one variation to the basic K-Means algorithm. – This is also known as the L1 Multivariate Median ● Dhillon and Modha first proposed a distributed KMeans clustering algorithm. – Computing the distributed median is more complicated At each Peer, P: For each image, x i , at P, Distributed K-Median Clustering Algorithm Select Initial Cluster Centers: Center(C G ) Calculate distance: from image, x i , to cluster center, Center(C G ) For each cluster, C Assign x i to cluster C, where Dist(x i ,Center(C G )) is minimized Select representatives to communicate, X P (C) Server communicates to peers For each cluster C: Calculate new center as an approximate Global Median: Median(C G ) = WMedian({X P (C)| P}) where X P (C) = {(x i ,w i )| x i is a representative image at peer P, w i is the number of items at P that x i represents}
The Effect of Material Properties on Tension Zone and Boundary Shear-Stress in Extrusion

The complete solution of stress and strain were obtained for commercially pure aluminum and superplastic alloy of the eutectic of Pb-Sn in an axisymmetric extrusion process of extrusion ratio 4 and a half cone angle of 45°. The extrusion speed was 0.1/min for aluminum and.003 in/min for superplastic Pb-Sn. The stress components along and perpendicular to the flow lines were calculated for different values of workhardening and strain-rate exponents. The shear stress along the boundary was determined. The size of the tension zone was compared for different material properties.
Targeting PSMA with a 64Cu-labeled phosphoramidate inhibitor for PET/CT imaging of variant PSMA-expressing xenografts in a mouse model of prostate cancer

497 Objectives CTT-97, an irreversible phosphoramidate inhibitor of PSMA, was conjugated to the CB-TE1K1P chelator for incorporation of 64Cu. The resulting PSMA-targeted PET agent, 64Cu-ABN-1, was evaluated for uptake in PSMA positive (PSMA+) cells of varying expression levels. This study assess the performance of 64Cu-ABN-1 in mouse models of prostate cancer. Methods 64Cu-ABN-1 was evaluated in vitro and in vivo in cell lines of varying levels of PSMA-expression: C4-2B, CWR22rv1, LNCaP and PSMA-negative PC3 cells. 64Cu-ABN-1 was evaluated by internalization and binding affinity assays. PET/CT imaging and biodistributions. Results The in vitro performance of 64Cu-ABN-1 demonstrated selective uptake in PSMA positive cells with approximately 80% internalization at 4 h for each PSMA+ cell lines. The uptake was correlated to PSMA expression levels. Imaging indicated significant tumor uptake with rapid non-target clearance through the kidneys. The PET/CT images for LNCaPs had the greatest uptake of 64Cu-ABN-1 (Figure 1). The LNCaPs were further evaluated in biodistribution experiments confirming the selective uptake in PSMA positive tumors with tumor:muscle and tumor: blood ratios (32 for both at 24 h). Conclusions 64Cu-ABN-1 demonstrated selective uptake in PSMA+ cells and tumors correlated to the level of PSMA expression. The ability of 64Cu-ABN-1 to selectively image variant PSMA-expressing xenografts demonstrates that the agent is capable of monitoring levels of PSMA-expression, and can be translated to the clinic as a non-invasive method to follow the progression of prostate cancer. These data, are encouraging, and we believe that optimization of the PSMA-targeted scaffold will enhance tumor uptake even further to provide an optimal agent for monitoring prostate cancer progression. Research Support University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Start Up
Employee engagement: finding a generally accepted measurement scale

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to present a method to find a generally accepted employee engagement scale, particularly in the presence of various alternatives and objectives. Design/methodology/approach To find the measurement scales, seminal works encapsulating organizational engagement, job engagement and work engagement in Cinhal, PsycINFO and ABI/INFORM database have been reviewed. For finding the optimal choice from available scales, multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) method was used. Findings An agreed-upon measurement scale is achievable through the knowledge of alternatives and consequences, as well as consistent preference ordering and a decision rule. However, choice of the most effective scale varies according to the preference of decision makers. Practical implications This study proposes MCDM method as an intervention for practitioners who aim to assess the level of employee engagement in their organizations. It also provides a decision-making method to scholars to surmount conflicting objectives in their measurement. Originality/value While previous studies have developed manifold measurement scales, there is no study to indicate which scale best measures employee engagement. This paper attempts to define how to choose one scale among the various existing gauges of engagement.
Functional profiling of a glioblastoma (GBM) patient-derived cell line (PDCL) panel to identify cell-intrinsic differential radiation response.

2069Background: It is not known whether GBM responds differently to radiation based on tumor cell-intrinsic factors. Newly developed PDCLs of GBM have potential to illuminate individual patient functional response to treatment at a scale not previously possible. We therefore assessed whether intrinsic differences in radiosensitivity are present in a large panel of clinically and genomically annotated GBM PDCLs. Methods: PDCLs were established from newly diagnosed (n = 25) and recurrent (n = 10) GBM patients. Whole exome sequencing and whole genome array comparative genomic hybridization was performed on the PDCLs, and patient outcomes data was collected. High-throughput functional radiation screening was performed across all patients at varying doses. Response was calculated at 9 days after treatment based on ATP measurement using Cell Titer Glo to assess growth and recovery. Proliferation was integrated as a function of dose for each cell line (AUC). AUC was correlated with genomic candidate factors and ...
Taking the Helm: Physical Educators Managing Change through Professional Learning Communities

ABSTRACTChange in education is inevitable. Physical educators are being positioned to effectively manage change and control their own destiny. In order to manage and facilitate positive change, phy...
Accurate Set-Based State Estimation for Nonlinear Discrete-Time Systems using Differential Inequalities with Model Redundancy

This paper presents an efficient recursive algorithm for computing tight enclosures of the set of states consistent with a given nonlinear discrete-time model, an observed output sequence, and given bounds on disturbances and measurement errors. This is commonly called set-based state estimation, and has applications in verification, fault detection, and robust control. The presented algorithm is based on the theory of differential inequalities (DI), which has been extensively developed for nonlinear reachability analysis. Contemporary DI methods make use of redundant model equations to achieve tight reachability bounds at low cost. Here, we extend these methods to set-based state estimation and show very favorable results relative to other recursive algorithms in common use. Notably, however, this approach is only applicable to forward-Euler-discretized systems satisfying a step size bound.
A Robust Strategy for Sustainable Organic Chemicals Utilizing Bioprivileged Molecules

Biobased chemicals will inevitably be an important part of a sustainable organic chemical industry. Current efforts in biobased chemicals are largely driven by opportunistic chemical product targets requiring complete technology development from feedstock to final product for a specific molecule. To enhance the development of biobased chemicals, it is important to create strategies that can be more systematic and can leverage advancements across multiple final products. Discussed here is the concept of bioprivileged molecules, which are chemical intermediates that have the potential to be efficiently converted into a range of product molecules that can both directly replace existing petrochemicals and are novel molecules that impart enhanced performance properties in end-use applications.
Enhanced method for analyzing Langmuir probe data and characterizing the Electron Energy Distribution Function (EEDF)

Langmuir probes (LPs) are a versatile diagnostic tool that can be used to calculate a multitude of plasma parameters including electron temperature, number density, and the electron energy distribution function (EEDF), especially when the probe theory is properly matched with the plasma regime. In a Hall-effect thruster (HET) plasma plume, where the flow is supersonic and mesothermal, conventional approaches attempt to avoid measuring the anisotropic components and apply classical LP theory for isotropic, Maxwellian plasmas. Not only does this result in large systematic error bars (20%–50%) but also gives no further insight into the dynamics of these plasmas. In this study, the probe axis is placed transverse to the flow direction. The resulting effect of this orientation on the sheath and wake was taken into account through the LP theory used to analyze the data and in fact was used to the advantage of composing a streamlined, nongraphical analysis. The high-speed dual LP system was used downstream of the H6 HET to take time-averaged measurements. A pre-analysis binning method was used instead of smoothing, along with the Druyvesteyn method to find the EEDF. Error bars were ≤12% for each plasma parameter. A chi-square fitting routine along with statistical parameters were used to obtain more information about the EEDF's form and to guide the interpretation of the fit. The EEDFs were mainly drifting Maxwellians with a velocity shift of ∝ 10 6 m/s. This drift could be due to a number of mechanisms, one being some combination of double layers and beam-plasma interactions.
UNIFORM SPERM MORPHOLOGY IN THE LEK-BREEDING WIRE-TAILED MANAKIN (PIPRA FILICAUDA)

Abstract ∙ When females copulate with multiple males, selection on spermatozoa can reduce variation in sperm morphology. We describe sperm morphology for a polygynous lek-breeding suboscine, the Wire-tailed Manakin ( Pipra filicauda ). Total sperm length averaged 41.5 ± 0.7 μm and the among-individual coefficient of variation in total sperm length was 1.8%. Variation was considerably lower than in the other manakin species with known sperm morphology, the Lance-tailed Manakin ( Chiroxiphia lanceolata ), despite similar promiscuity levels. This result highlights the need for further work on spermatozoa in lek-breeding species. Resumen ∙ Morfologia uniforme en el esperma del Saltarin Uirapuru (Pipra filicauda), una especie con sistema de apareamiento de lek Cuando las hembras copulan con mas de un macho, seleccion actuando al nivel del espermatozoide puede reducir la variacion en la morfologia del esperma. Aqui describimos la morfologia del esperma para una especie poliginica de suboscin con sistema de apareamiento de lek, el Saltarin Uirapuru ( Pipra filicauda ). Los espermatozoides tuvieron una longitud total promedio de 41.5 ± 0.7 μm, y el coeficiente de variacion para la longitud total fue de 1.8%. El nivel de variacion fue menor que en la otra especie de saltarin estudiada al respecto, el Saltarin Lanceolado ( Chiroxiphia lanceolata ), aunque ambas especies tienen casi el mismo nivel de promiscuidad. Estos resultados sugieren la necesidad de mas estudios sobre especies de aves con este sistema de apareamiento.
Utility of 90-Day Mortality vs 30-Day Mortality as a Quality Metric for Transcatheter and Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement Outcomes.

Importance Questions have recently arisen as to whether 30-day mortality is a reasonable metric for understanding institutional practice differences after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) and surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR). Objective To examine the utility of 30-day vs 90-day mortality after TAVR and SAVR as a mortality quality metric. Design, Setting, and Participants This nationally representative, multicenter, cohort study analyzed data from Medicare beneficiaries undergoing TAVR and SAVR procedures from January 1, 2012, to December 31, 2015. Concomitant coronary artery bypass grafting and other heart valve or other major open-heart procedures were excluded. Hospitals that performed fewer than 50 TAVR or 70 SAVR procedures per year were excluded to ensure reliable estimates and to reduce the risks of inflated results because of small institutional sample sizes. Data were analyzed from October 2018 to August 2019. Exposures Hospitals were ranked into top- (10%), middle- (80%), and bottom-performing (10%) groups based on their 4-year mean 30-day mortality. Main Outcomes and Measures Changes in hospital performance rankings at 90 days and 1 year and correlation of 30- and 90-day mortality with 1-year mortality were examined. Results A total of 30 329 TAVR admissions at 184 hospitals and 26 021 SAVR admissions at 191 hospitals were evaluated. For TAVR, 40 hospitals (21.7%) changed performance rankings at 90 days: 13 (48.1%) in the top-performing group and 8 (29.6%) in the bottom-performing group. At 1 year, 56 hospitals (30.4%), which included 21 (77.8%) in the top-performing group and 12 (44.4%) in the bottom-performing group, changed rankings. Similar findings were observed for SAVR, with an overall 90-day conversion rate of 17.3% and a 1-year rate of 30.3%. These findings persisted after adjusting for the differences in patient risk profiles among the 3 groups. Capturing 90-day events was also more robustly informative regarding expected 1-year outcomes after both TAVR and SAVR, largely owing to the observed plateau in the instantaneous hazard observed beyond this point. Conclusions and Relevance The findings suggest that evaluation of hospital performance based on 30-day mortality may underestimate outcomes and therefore substantially misrepresent institutional performance after TAVR and SAVR compared with 90-day mortality, even after risk adjustment. Although 30-day mortality has been validated, 90-day mortality may be a more reliable outcome metric for measuring hospital performance and capturing procedure-related mortality.