cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Complications Are Not Increased With Acetabular Revision of Metal-on-metal Total Hip Arthroplasty.

Isolated revision of the acetabular component in the setting of total hip arthroplasty has an increased risk of dislocation. With local soft tissue destruction frequently associated with failed metal-on-metal (MoM) bearings, it is presumed that acetabular revision of these hips will have even greater risk of complications. However, no study directly compares the complications of MoM with metal-on-polyethylene (MoP) acetabular revisions. In the context of a large database analysis, we asked the following questions: (1) Are there differences in early medical or wound complications after isolated acetabular revision of MoM and MoP bearing surfaces? (2) Are there differences in the frequency of dislocation, deep infection, and rerevision based on the bearing surface of the original implant? A review of the 100% Medicare database from 2005 to 2012 was performed using International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision and Current Procedural Terminology codes. We identified 451 patients with a MoM bearing and 628 patients with a MoP bearing who had an isolated acetabular revision and a minimum followup of 2 years. The incidence, odds ratios, and 95% confidence intervals for early medical or wound complications were calculated using a univariate analysis at 30 days with patient sex and age group-adjusted analysis for blood transfusion. The incidence, odds ratio, and 95% confidence intervals for dislocation, deep infection, and rerevision were calculated using a univariate analysis at 30 day, 90 days, 1 year, and 2 years using a subgroup analysis with the Cochran–Mantel–Haenszel test to adjust for patient gender and age groups. There were no differences between the MoM and MoP isolated acetabular revisions in the incidence of 30-day local complications. There was a greater risk of transfusion in the MoP group than the MoM group (134 of 451 [30%] versus 230 of 628 [37%]; odds ratio [OR], 0.731; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.565–0.948; p = 0.018). There were no differences at 2 years between the MoM and MoP acetabular revisions in the incidence of dislocation, infection, or rerevision. When analyzed by patient sex and age group, there were more infections in the age 70 to 79 years MoP group compared with MoM (10 of 451 [5%] versus 29 of 628 [10%]; OR, 4.47; CI, 1.699–11.761; p = 0.001). There were high rates of dislocation, infection, and rerevision in both revision cohorts. The rate of dislocation was not greater after acetabular revision of MoM bearings at 2 years. Based on these findings, clinicians should counsel these patients preoperatively about the risks of these complications. Dual-mobility and constrained components have specific advantages and disadvantages in these settings and should be further studied. Level III, therapeutic study.
Configuration Dependence of the Vibrational Free Energy in Substitutional Alloys and Its Effects on Phase Stability

The lattice vibrations influence the ordering tendencies in substitutional alloys through the configurational dependence of the vibrational free energy. In this paper we study the size of this effect and the trends with chemical affinity and size mismatch. By analyzing available experimental information and by studying simple model systems for which the phonon frequencies can be easily computed, we find that a) changes in transition temperatures of order-disorder transformations of 30% due to the lattice vibrations may not be uncommon; b) the transition temperatures are usually lowered when the vibrations are included in the modeling of the system, except for certain combinations of size mismatch and chemical affinity; and c) that the largest contribution to the configurational dependence of the vibrational free energy is due to the intermediate and high frequencies of the spectrum.
Redox systematics in model glass compositions from West Valley

Sulfur is incorporated into model glass melts, representative of West Valley compositions for the vitrification of high level nuclear waste, as the sulfate ion under oxidizing conditions and as the sulfide ion under reducing conditions. A narrow range of oxygen fugacities, around 10{sup {minus}8.8} atm at 1150{degrees}C, under which the two redox forms of sulfur coexist is also the minimum in the sulfur solubility. Under the redox conditions prescribed for waste processing, sulfur dissolves as the sulfate ion. The capacity to dissolve sulfur as sulfate is about 1 to 2.5 wt% sulfur; an immiscible sulfate layer floats on the glass melt if waste loading introduces sulfur contents greater than this under oxidizing conditions. If the waste/melt system is exposed to sufficiently reducing conditions, the first phase to separate from the melt is likely nickel sulfide. The presence of the immiscible sulfate or sulfide layer buffers the iron redox ratio of the resulting glass.
Choosing Host Plant Patch Sizes for Experiments on Pieris rapae (L.) Populations (Lepidoptera: Pieridae)

Studying effects of host plant patch size on insect populations and applying the results to pest management require efficient experimental design. Ability to detect patch size effects in experiments depends on differences in population levels among different-sized patches and the variability of those population levels. This paper combines statistical analysis of variance components with a model simulating how insect populations respond to patch size, in order to analyze alternative designs. By using this method, host plant patch size, number of replicates, and number of subsamples can be chosen for efficient experiments within limits of space, labor, and experimental material. The method is illustrated with data from field experiments on Pieris rapae (L.) in collard patches.
Relatively Prime Amicable Numbers with Twenty-One Prime Divisors

(1972). Relatively Prime Amicable Numbers with Twenty-One Prime Divisors. Mathematics Magazine: Vol. 45, No. 1, pp. 21-26.
Reversible Third Nerve Paralysis and Blast-Like Cells in Cerebrospinal Fluid as Unusual Presentation of Neuroborreliosis (P01.121)

Objective: To describe an atypical presentation of neuroborreliosis and evaluate the adequacy of current diagnostic techniques. Background A 59-year woman presented with diplopia and facial numbness. Symptoms were preceded by a febrile illness and rash 6 weeks prior. At that time, an ELISA and western blot (WB) for Lyme IgG and IgM antibodies were negative. Design/Methods: Initial examination revealed left third nerve palsy, involvement of the second branch of the right trigeminal nerve, and lower extremity hyperreflexia. Neuroimaging showed gadolinium-enhancement of the left third nerve and multiple lumbosacral nerve roots. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) revealed a lymphocytic pleocytosis with atypical cells reported as blasts. The patient was empirically treated with parenteral ceftriaxone while further workup was pursued. Results: Current literature suggests diagnosis of neuroborreliosis based on clinical presentation however little is described about the appearance of blast-like cells as an indicator of disease in adults. Therefore, complete assessment for infectious and neoplastic disorders was initiated including FDG-PET scan which did not show evidence of malignancy. Three large volume CSF cytopathology and flow-cytometry studies were negative for malignant cells. Serologies revealed a positive Lyme IgM and negative IgG (WB). Complete infectious workup was otherwise negative including Ehrlichiosis and Babesiosis. Two weeks later, Lyme IgG turned positive by WB. The patient9s symptoms fully resolved following treatment with parenteral ceftriaxone. Conclusions: Typically, neuroborreliosis presents with involvement of the seventh cranial nerve. This patient presented with third cranial nerve involvement, polyradiculitis, and atypical lymphocytes in the CSF resembling blast cells. Clinical syndrome, serologic conversion during the acute phase of illness, and response to therapy confirmed the diagnosis of neuroborreliosis. Intrathecal antibodies remained negative. This supports the current guidelines recommending ELISA followed by WB testing in the setting of high clinical suspicion. Further research to identify a single test with sufficient sensitivity and specificity is needed to expedite diagnosis. Disclosure: Dr. Bahouth has nothing to disclose. Dr. Mohassel has nothing to disclose. Dr. Pardo-Villamizar has nothing to disclose.
Tortuosity of the internal carotid artery. Report of seven cases treated surgically.

Cerebral arterial insufficiency due to impairment of carotid blood flow, usually caused by stenosis from an atherosclerotic plaque, also may be produced by elongation, tortuosity and kinking of the artery. Surgical treatment consists of removing the redundancy of the artery either by segmental resection and end-to-end anastomosis or by division and reinsertion of the internal carotid into the proximal common carotid artery. Seven cases are reported in which successful surgical treatment was accomplished. Six patients who had transient symptoms recovered completely without subsequent symptoms, and one patient who had prolonged partial aphasia before operation was unchanged.
340 CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE: RELATIONSHIP OF NEPHROLOGIST INVOLVEMENT AND DISEASE COURSE

Introduction Chronic kidney disease (CKD) currently affects 11% of the U.S. population and its incidence is rising at ever increasing rates, as is end-stage disease. Guidelines have been developed and a call for early referral to subspecialists has been made in the hope that aggressive early management will slow and possibly halt disease progression. However, the number of available nephrologists may limit who and when patients can be referred. We undertook this study to examine the relationship between the stage of CKD at which a nephrologist becomes in involved in a patient9s care and disease progression. Methods We retrospectively identified a cohort of 1553 veterans with primary care providers at the Durham, NC, VA hospital who had CKD, defined by two abnormal creatinines (> 1.3 mg/dL) from outpatient visits at least 3 weeks apart between January 1, 1998 and December 31, 1999. We compared the time spent in each stage of CKD using a Cox proportional hazards model adjusted for demographics, comorbidities, and medications for two groups: those followed by a primary care provider only (PCP-only) and those followed by a nephrologist. Results Over 90% of our cohort had hypertension and half had diabetes and coronary artery disease. About one-half were using angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI) and less than 3% were using erythropoietin. The median number of days spent in each CKD stage was as follows: stage 1, 1149; stage 2, 1206; stage 3, 1158; stage 4, 794; and stage 5, 709. There was no difference in survival between the two groups during stage 1 or 2, but during stages 3 through 5 individuals in the nephrology group spent an average of 152 days more in each stage. ACEIs and statins prolonged time to progression time while HbA1c values above goal, 7.0, and vascular disease shortened it. Conclusion These data suggest that an appropriate time for referral to a nephrologist for patients with CKD may be around stage 3. Prospective studies are needed to further clarify the role and timing of nephrologists in the early stages of CKD.
Caffeine administered during pregnancy augments subsequent lactation in mice

Mice were administered caffeine (500 mg/liter of drinking water) from d 1 until d 18 of pregnancy. Before and after receiving caffeine, mice were given distilled water for drinking, as were controls. Litter size, birth weight, and offspring survival were not affected by caffeine, but litter weight on d 15 of lactation was increased by caffeine 84.0 +/- 3.1 g (n = 8) in controls vs 98.3 +/- 3.7 g (n = 7) in caffeine-treated mice (P less than .05). Mammary gland cell number, measured by the DNA content of mammae, was increased by giving caffeine during pregnancy (P less than .05). On d 18 of pregnancy, mammary DNA was .47 +/- .07 mg (n = 6) in controls vs .71 +/- .11 mg (n = 6) in caffeine-treated mice. On d 15 of lactation, mammary DNA was .96 +/- .12 mg (n = 8) in control vs 1.26 +/- .11 mg (n = 7) in caffeine-treated mice. RNA increased (P less than .05) parallel to DNA. In additional experiments, litters were cross-fostered and standardized to eight pups per litter. Mice were bred and caffeine was administered as described previously. At birth, eight pups from mice treated with caffeine or as controls during the preceding pregnancy were fostered to a control or caffeine-treated mother. In these experiments, litter weight on d 15 of lactation was 82 g for control litters nursing control mothers, 84 g for caffeine litters nursing control mothers, 96 g for control litters nursing caffeine mothers, and 99 g for caffeine litters nursing caffeine mothers (n = 7 per groups, pooled SE = +/- 3.4 g).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Robustness of near infrared spectroscopy based spectral features for non-destructive bitter pit detection in honeycrisp apples

Abstract Bitter pit is a serious disorder in apples. The current technique involves manual inspection of fruits prior to packaging for fresh market. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to evaluate the near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy for bitter pit detection in apples. The spectral reflectance data were collected from healthy and bitter pitted honeycrisp apples from two different locations. Apples were stored in cold storage and spectra were acquired at 0, 35 and 63 days after harvest (DAH). On each of the DAH, each of the 40 apples (20 healthy and 20 bitter pitted) were analyzed to acquire three spectra per location with three marked locations per fruit. Suitable spectral features were selected using stepwise multilinear regression and rank feature technique. The spectral bands of 971.2, 978.0, 986.1, 987.3, 995.4, 1131.5, 1135.3, 1139.1 and 1142.8 nm were identified as the bands thought to be associated with bitter pit in honeycrisp apples. Feature datasets were evaluated using quadratic discriminant analysis and support vector machine classifiers to evaluate robustness of these features in bitter pit detection. Overall, classifiers performance comparison revealed that bitter pitted honeycrisp apples can be distinguished with average accuracy in the range of 78–87%. Based on spectral features of this study, spectra related to cell membrane water-soaked regions that contribute to spectral variation might have been identified. Our on-going studies are further validating those bands on Honeycrisp and other apple cultivars and using different spectral band selection methods towards developing a portable sensing module for apple bitter pit detection.
The South Stumbles Along, 1900–1930

“It is good bye with poor white folks and niggers now,” wrote one negro editor,” for the train of disenfranchisement is on the rail and will come thundering upon us like an avalanche, there is no use crying, we have got to shute the shute.”
PSPIKE+: A family of parallel hybrid sparse linear system solvers

Abstract We present PSPIKE+, as a family of parallel hybrid linear system solvers that are more robust than other available preconditioned iterative methods, and more scalable than parallel sparse direct solvers. A critical step in using PSPIKE+ is the extraction of a preconditioner that is in the form of a generalized central band which consists of a set of overlapping diagonal blocks that encapsulate as many of the heaviest elements of the coefficient matrix. To address this issue, we propose the G-PAVER reordering scheme that produces an effective preconditioner in the form of overlapping diagonal blocks while simultaneously accommodating load balancing on distributed-memory architectures and controlling overlap sizes. In each outer Krylov subspace iteration for solving the linear system, we need to solve linear systems involving the preconditioner. This is accomplished using a parallel tearing-based method, which may be regarded as an algebraic domain decomposition scheme. The tearing-based method requires the solution of a much smaller linear system (we call the balance system) whose size is equal to the sum of the overlaps. In this paper, we form the balance system explicitly and solve it directly. Our parallel implementation of PSPIKE+ based on G-PAVER, PARDISO 5.0.0, and solving the explicit balance system results in impressive robustness and good parallel scalability on computing platforms with a limited number of multi-core nodes.
Revisiting von Restorff’s early isolation effect

An item that is conceptually or physically different from other items in a series is often remembered well. This isolation effect has been found independent of the position of the isolated item in the list, suggesting that special attention to or processing of the isolated item is not a necessary precondition of the effect. Three experiments are reported that challenge this conclusion. In Experiment 1a, we compared memory for conceptually isolated items to memory for the same items in unrelated and homogeneous lists. Under moderately distracting conditions, isolation effects were observed with midlist but not with early isolates. In fact, early isolation impaired memory for the conceptually distinct items relative to the same items in homogeneous lists. Experiment 1b replicated this memory impairment for early conceptual isolates and extended it to nondistracting conditions. In Experiment 2, we focused on early isolation, manipulating the type of isolation and whether or not participants performed judgments of learning (JOLs). An early isolation effect was observed for numbers isolated in lists of words (and vice versa), but not for conceptual isolates. Performing the JOL task reduced the size of the early isolation effect. These results suggest that number/word stimulus contrasts are coded automatically and support an isolation effect independent of list position. However, conceptual contrasts require relational processing and will only support an early isolation effect when such processing occurs. The results of Experiments 1a, 1b, and 2 suggest that attentional resources during list presentation and a favorable retrieval environment combine to support good memory for distinctive events.
Complications in neonatal surgery

Neonatal surgery is recognized as an independent discipline in general surgery, requiring the expertise of pediatric surgeons to optimize outcomes in infants with surgical conditions. Survival following neonatal surgery has improved dramatically in the past 60 years. Improvements in pediatric surgical outcomes are in part attributable to improved understanding of neonatal physiology, specialized pediatric anesthesia, neonatal critical care including sophisticated cardiopulmonary support, utilization of parenteral nutrition and adjustments in fluid management, refinement of surgical technique, and advances in surgical technology including minimally invasive options. Nevertheless, short and long-term complications following neonatal surgery continue to have profound and sometimes lasting effects on individual patients, families, and society.
Novel Antagonists for Low Molecular Weight Heparin and Heparin-Like Drugs.

Abstract 2092 Poster Board II-69 Unfractionated heparin and other heparin derivatives such as low molecular weight heparins (LMWHs) are used for treatment of coagulation diseases and in surgical applications. Currently neutralization is achieved using protamine sulfate, whose cationic properties allow charge-based binding to heparin. However, protamine is unable to completely reverse LMWH9s anticoagulant effects and has potential for side-effects. Our objective was to characterize the ability of a series of salicylamide derivatives (PolyMedix Corp, Radnor, PA) to neutralize the activities of a LMWH (enoxaparin) and a heparin-derived drug containing the antithrombin-binding sequence (fondaparinux) to better understand the structural features required for effective neutralization. Human plasma (n=4) was supplemented with enoxaparin (0.9 – 15 μg/ml) or fondaparinux (0.6 – 10 μg/ml) to develop concentration-response curves. Each of 18 salicylamide derivatives (i.e. PMX 60056, etc.) or protamine sulfate was added to the enoxaparin- and fondaparinux-supplemented plasma samples at concentrations of 2.5 or 5.0 μg/ml. Anticoagulant activity was measured by coagulation (activated partial thromboplastin time and Heptest) and anti-protease (anti-factor Xa and anti-thrombin) assays using an automated coagulation analyzer. Data was analyzed in terms of percent neutralization of therapeutic (7.5 and 1.25 μg/mL) and prophylactic concentrations (3.75 and 0.625 μg/mL) of enoxaparin and fondaparinux, respectively. For the LMWH, the ratios of neutralizing agent to enoxaparin ranged from 0.33 to 1.33. As the ratio increased, more effective neutralization was observed. Consistent with previous results, protamine was only capable of partially neutralizing the in vitro activities of LMWH. While approximately 60% of the anti-thrombin activity was neutralized, much less neutralization was observed in terms of anti-Xa and anticoagulant activity. The prototype salicylamide derivative (PMX 60056) more effectively neutralized the anti-thrombin and anti-Xa activities of enoxaparin. Of the 17 new derivatives, approximately half were as effective as PMX 60056 at neutralizing anti-thrombin activity, and several were notably better at neutralizing anti-Xa activity. It was also noted that several compounds were not effective at neutralizing anticoagulant or anti-protease activities. The ratios of neutralizing agent to fondaparinux ranged from 2.0 to 8.0. At any of the ratios tested, protamine was ineffective at neutralizing anti-Xa or Heptest activity. Although all salicylamide derivatives exhibited a reduced capacity to neutralize fondaparinux in comparison to enoxaparin, at higher ratios, several of the derivatives were more potent than PMX 60056. This study shows that salicylamide derivatives can neutralize the anticoagulant and anti-protease actions of LMWH and fondaparinux. Manipulation of chemical structure may allow for the identification of agents that are more effective than currently available antagonists. Disclosures: Jeske:PolyMedix, Inc.: Research Funding.
A mechanical rotator for neutron scattering measurements

We have designed and built a mechanical rotation system for use in single crystal neutron scattering experiments at low temperatures. The main motivation for this device is to facilitate the application of magnetic fields transverse to a primary training axis, using only a vertical cryomagnet. Development was done in the context of a triple-axis neutron spectrometer, but the design is such that it can be generalized to a number of different instruments or measurement techniques. Here, we discuss some of the experimental constraints motivating the design, followed by design specifics, preliminary experimental results, and a discussion of potential uses and future extension possibilities.
The Elementary Hadley Circulation

In the most basic terms, the Hadley circulation can be thought of as a large-scale overturning of the atmosphere driven by latitudinal heating gradients, extending roughly between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn covering roughly half the surface area of the planet. Rising air occurs near the equator with subsidence in the subtropics. The circulation has a strong seasonal variability. It is manifested during the equinoxes as a pair of relatively weak cells with a common rising zone near the equator termed the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ). A much stronger cross-equatorial cell marks the solstitial seasons with rising motion in the summer hemisphere and widespread descending air in the winter hemisphere. The meridional circulations are instrumental in determining where tropical rainfall occurs and where the great deserts are located. Variability of the location and intensity of the Hadley circulation (or its regional manifestation such as the monsoons), through the ages has helped shape the history of mankind, either spawning regions of civilization by providing an abundance of rainfall for agriculture or destroying them by periods of drought. The variability of the Hadley circulation is also manifested on interannual times scales as an important component of the waxing and waning of El Nino in the Pacific Ocean, perturbing seasonal climates worldwide.
Elementary school students’ naïve conceptions and misconceptions about energy in physical education context

The purpose of this study was to explore and reveal naive conceptions and misconceptions about energy embedded in elementary school students' prior knowledge. Students' performance on standardized knowledge test was used to classify students into low, median and high levels of knowledge about the cardiovascular system. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with students in each group to extract their understanding of energy in relation to food choices, physical activities, and exercises. Analysis of the interview data generated six categories of naive conceptions and two categories of misconceptions. Different conceptual change theories, including Chi's ontological change theory, Ohlsson's resubsumption theory, and enculturation theory were used to analyze and understand these naive conceptions and misconceptions and why they could be robust to change. The analyses confirm the need to adopt a multi-theoretical approach to the understanding of students' naive conceptions and misconceptions (Chinn & Samarapungavan, 2009. Conceptual change-multiple routes, multiple mechanisms: A commentary on Ohlsson. Educational Psychologist, 44(1), 1-10). The findings encourage physical and health educators adopt different strategies to address the potential learning obstacles brought by students' naive conceptions and misconceptions.
Bandgap Engineering of Lead-Free Double Perovskite Cs 2 AgBiBr 6 through Trivalent Metal Alloying

The double perovskite family, A2MIMIIIX6, represents a promising route to overcome the lead toxicity issue confronting current photovoltaic (PV) standout, CH3NH3PbI3. Given the generally large indirect bandgap within most known double perovskites, bandgap engineering provides an important approach for targeting outstanding PV performance within this family. Using Cs2AgBiBr6 as host, we demonstrate bandgap engineering through alloying of InIII/SbIII. Cs2Ag(Bi1-xMx)Br6 (M = In, Sb) accommodates up to 75% InIII with increased bandgap, and up to 37.5% SbIII with reduced bandgap—i.e., enabling ~0.41 eV bandgap modulation through introduction of the two metals, with smallest value of 1.86 eV for Cs2Ag(Bi0.625Sb0.375)Br6. Band structure calculations indicate that opposite bandgap shift directions associated with Sb/In substitution arise from different atomic configurations for these atoms. Associated photoluminescence and environmental stability of the three-metal systems are also assessed.
JewAsian: race, religion, and identity for America’s Newest Jews

Sociologists Helen Kiyong Kim and Noah Samuel Leavitt, a married couple, he of Jewish background, presumably European, and she of Korean derivation, have, with this slim book, launched an important...
Determining the optimal spectral sampling frequency and uncertainty thresholds for hyperspectral remote sensing of ocean color

Using a modified geostatistical technique, empirical variograms were constructed from the first derivative of several diverse Remote Sensing Reflectance and Phytoplankton Absorbance spectra to describe how data points are correlated with "distance" across the spectra. The maximum rate of information gain is measured as a function of the kurtosis associated with the Gaussian structure of the output, and is determined for discrete segments of spectra obtained from a variety of water types (turbid river filaments, coastal waters, shelf waters, a dense Microcystis bloom, and oligotrophic waters), as well as individual and mixed phytoplankton functional types (PFTs; diatoms, eustigmatophytes, cyanobacteria, coccolithophores). Results show that a continuous spectrum of 5 to 7 nm spectral resolution is optimal to resolve the variability across mixed reflectance and absorbance spectra. In addition, the impact of uncertainty on subsequent derivative analysis is assessed, showing that a 3% Gaussian noise (SNR ~66) addition compromises data quality without smoothing the spectrum, and a 13% noise (SNR ~15) addition compromises data with smoothing.
Resonant excitation of high order modes in the 3.9 GHz cavity of the Linac Coherent Light Source

Construction of the Linac Coherent Light Source II (LCLS-II) is underway for the world's first hard x-ray free-electron laser. A central part of the LCLS-II project is a 4 GeV superconducting radio frequency electron linac that will operate in the continuous wave (cw) mode. The linac is segmented into four sections named as $L0$, $L1$, $L2$, and $L3$. Two 3.9 GHz cryomodules, each housing of eight third-harmonic cavities similar to the cavities developed for the European X-ray Free Electron Laser (XFEL), will be used in section $L1$ of the linac for linearizing the longitudinal beam profile. In this paper, we present a study of trapped high order modes (HOMs) excited by a cw electron beam in the third-harmonic cavities of the LCLS-II linac. A detailed comparison of the original XFEL design and the LCLS-II design with a modified end group is performed in order to estimate the effect of a reduced beam pipe aperture on the efficiency of HOM damping. Furthermore, we apply a statistical analysis of the eigenmode spectrum for the estimation of the probability of resonant HOM losses and influence of HOMs on beam dynamics.
Open data privacy and security policy issues and its influence on embracing the Internet of Things

Information and communication technologies (ICT) are changing the way people interact with each other. Today, every physical device can have the capability to connect to the Internet (digital presence) to send and receive data. Internet connected cameras, home automation systems, connected cars are all examples of interconnected Internet of Things (IoT). IoT can bring benefits to users in terms of monitoring and intelligent capabilities, however, these devices collect, transmit, store, and have a potential to share vast amount of personal and individual data that encroach private spaces and can be vulnerable to security breaches. The ecosystem of IoT comprises not only of users, various sensors, and devices but also other stakeholders of IoT such as data collectors, processors, regulators, and policy-makers. Even though the number of commercially available IoT devices is on steep rise, the uptake of these devices has been slow, and abandonment rapid. This paper explains how stakeholders (including users) and technologies form an assemblage in which these stakeholders are cumulatively responsible for making IoT an essential element of day-to-day living and connectivity. To this end, this paper examines open issues in data privacy and security policies (from perspectives of the European Union and North America), and its effects on stakeholders in the ecosystem. This paper concludes by explaining how these open issues, if unresolved, can lead to another wave of digital division and discrimination in the use of IoT.
Trends in cigarette smoking cessation in the United States

My job today is to update you on trends in cigarette smoking, and, more importantly, smoking cessation in the US; to examine recent patterns of quitting activity in the nation; and to discuss the issue of the ‘hard-core’ smoker. I will discuss cessation methods and a recent report in JAMA by Fiore and colleagues1 on this topic. I will end my discussion with a look at the opportunities for progress that are currently available. Cigarette smoking kills more than 400 000 Americans annually.2 It is the single most important preventable cause of premature mortality in the US.3 We can reduce this annual burden of suffering, as Dr Schelling pointed out, by preventing initiation and by increasing cessation. The upcoming report of the Surgeon General will focus on preventing the initiation of tobacco use among young people. The 1990 report of the Surgeon General addressed the health benefits of cessation and stated un-equivocally that smoking cessation represents the single most important step that smokers can take to enhance the length and quality of their lives.4 The report demonstrated that smoking cessation has major and immediate health benefits for men and women of all ages; these benefits apply to persons with and without smoking- related disease. There are benefits in terms of overall mortality. For example, former smokers live longer than do persons who continue to smoke. Persons who quit smoking before the age of 50 have half the risk of dying in the next 15 years than do persons who continue to smoke. Smoking cessation decreases the risk of lung and other cancers, heart attack, stroke, and chronic lung disease. It also has benefits in pregnancy.4 What is going on in terms of adult prevalence? We track prevalence in the nation using the National Health Interview …
Generating the ring of matrix invariants

The ring of invariants of a set of n×n matrices over a field of characteristic zero is a graded ring. The Procesi-Razmyslov theory of trace identities gives criteria for it to be generated by its elements of degree ≤r. These criteria are used to reprove the Procesi-Razmyslov result that it is generated by its elements of degree ≤n2 and to show that it is not generated by its elements of degree ≤n2/8.
Applying Learning Factors Analysis to Build Stereotypic Student Models

This paper demonstrates how stereotypic student groups can be created to enhance cognitive models in computer tutors. Computer tutors use cognitive models to track what skills students are learning and what practice attempts are most needed; often, these models contain relatively few individualized student parameters due to computational concerns. A hybrid approach emphasizing tractability and customization is used to balance the need for computable cognitive models and more flexibility to reflect learner characteristics. We use learning factors analysis to incorporate these learner characteristics and demonstrate that the resulting groups do require different cognitive models. In particular, learning rates and the actual skills that students seem to be learning based on mathematical models differ between groups.
A Game Theoretic Bidding Agent for the Ad Auction Game

TAC/AA (ad auction game) provides a forum for researchers into strategic bidding in keyword auctions to try out their ideas in an independently simulated setting. We describe an agent that successfully competed in the TAC/AA game, showing in the process how to operationalize game theoretic analysis to develop a very simple, yet highly competent agent. Specifically, we use simulation-based game theory to approximate equilibria in a restricted bidding strategy space, assess their robustness in a normative sense, and argue for relative plausibility of equilibria based on an analogy to a common agent design methodology. Finally, we offer some evidence for the efficacy of equilibrium predictions based on TAC/AA tournament data.
Temperature Dependence of Ion Solvation Dynamics in Liquid Water

Results for the dielectric dynamics of liquid TIP4P model water at different temperatures, calculated under the Reference Memory Function Approximation, are incorporated in a recently developed molecular theory of solvation dynamics to study the temperature dependence of ion solvation dynamics in TIP4P liquid water. The results show only a weak dependence with temperature of the short time features of the solvation time correlation function in the temperature range 257–310 K.
Prevention of Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a malignant epithelial neoplasm (adenocarcinoma) developing in the glandular tissue of the colon or rectum. The great majority of CRCs develop from adenomatous colorectal polyps in a process called the adenoma-carcinoma sequence (Muto et al., Cancer 36(6):2251–2270, 1975). Colorectal polyps are a histopathologic group of benign lesions that include hyperplastic and adenomatous polyps that project above the surrounding mucosa as well as the less common, non-polypoid polyps. The adenomatous polyps (adenomas) are benign, neoplastic precursors that arise in the colorectal glandular epithelium. In the United States (USA), colorectal adenoma (CRA) prevalence is approximately 25 % by age 50 and rises to around 50 % by age 70. The histological hallmarks of a CRA are altered glandular architecture and dysplasia of the epithelium. A benign CRA progresses to invasive CRC when the dysplastic cells gain the capacity to invade through the muscularis mucosa. The development of invasive cancer from the earliest CRA may take from years to decades. While most CRCs develop from CRAs, the slow rate of progress results in less than 10 % ever progressing to CRC. In this chapter, we review the molecular characteristics of the disease and provide an update on the epidemiology including reviewing evidence for established and suspected risk factors for CRC. Given the dramatic impact that screening and early detection have had on reducing the incidence and mortality suspected of CRC and death from CRC, we have included a detailed review of the different screening recommendations and their efficacy.
The core of fiduciary political theory

“Fiduciary political theory” applies norms developed within fiduciary law to public officials and political institutions. Fiduciary political theorists contend that these fiduciary norms describe or, at least, offer insights into the political authority of states and other major questions of political morality. However, many fiduciary political theorists disagree about methodology—specifically, how directly to apply fiduciary norms to the realm of politics. This chapter has two goals. The first goal is to describe the core of fiduciary political theory by identifying features of fiduciary norms (some more familiar than others) that apply in both private law and political contexts. Part I sketches these features, illustrating them by reference to several recent cases in the United States. The second goal is to show that these core features of fiduciary norms can transcend methodological disagreements among fiduciary political theorists. In Part II, we briefly describe these disagreements, contending that they threaten to distract attention from the substantial common ground among different fiduciary political theories. Our analysis, if correct, provides a framework for analyzing the actions of political officials and the structure of political institutions, regardless of how literally one thinks that fiduciary norms do (or should) apply to the political realm. Bracketing these methodological disagreements provides firmer ground for developing the most distinctive and powerful aspects of fiduciary political theory as an intellectual enterprise.
Metabolic markers, regional adiposity, and adipose cell size: relationship to insulin resistance in African-American as compared with Caucasian women

African-American women have the greatest prevalence of obesity in the United States, and higher rates of type 2 diabetes than Caucasian women, yet paradoxically lower plasma triglycerides (TG), visceral fat and intrahepatic fat, and higher high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol. Visceral fat has not been evaluated against insulin resistance in African-American women, and TG/HDL-cholesterol has been criticized as a poor biomarker for insulin resistance in mixed-sex African-American populations. Adipocyte hypertrophy, reflecting adipocyte dysfunction, predicts insulin resistance in Caucasians, but has not been studied in African-Americans. Our goal was to assess whether traditional correlates of insulin resistance, measures of adiposity and adipocyte characteristics similarly predict peripheral insulin resistance in African-American and Caucasian women. Thirty-four healthy African-American (n = 17) and Caucasian (n = 17) women, matched for age (mean = 53.0 yrs) and body mass index (BMI) (mean = 30 kg/m2), underwent a steady-state plasma glucose test to measure insulin sensitivity; computed tomography (fat distribution); and a periumbilical scalpel biopsy (adipocyte characterization). By-race analyzes utilized analysis of covariance; linear regressions evaluated relationships between metabolic/adipose variables. All analyses adjusted for BMI and menopausal status. Insulin sensitivity did not differ between groups (p = 0.65). Neither BMI, nor %body fat or thigh fat predicted insulin resistance in African-American women. Fasting TG (p = 0.046), HDL-cholesterol (p = 0.0006) and TG/HDL-cholesterol ratio (p = 0.009) strongly predicted insulin resistance in African-American women. Despite being lower in African-American women, hepatic fat and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) correlated with insulin resistance in both groups, as did fasting glucose, VAT/SAT (subcutaneous adipose tissue) ratio, and %SAT (inverse). Total adiposity measures and adipocyte hypertrophy did not predict insulin resistance in African-American women, but did in Caucasian women. Plasma TG and HDL-cholesterol were significant predictors of insulin resistance in African-American women. Our findings demonstrate the need to identify race and sex-specific biomarkers for metabolic risk profiling.
Maxwell’s Equations—Generalization of Ampère-Maxwell’s Law

Ampere’s Law, relating a steady electric current to a circulating magnetic field, was well known by the time James Clerk Maxwell started his research in a similar field in the 1850s. Although Ampere’s Law was known to apply only to static situations involving steady currents, it was Maxwell’s effort to add another source term—a change of electric flux—that extended the applicability of Ampere’s Law to time-dependent conditions. More important, it was the presence of this term in Ampere’s equation that led to it being known as Ampere-Maxwell’s Law. It allowed Maxwell to distinguish the electromagnetic nature of light and to develop a comprehensive theory of electromagnetism [1].
System Performance: From Enterprise to AI

System performance has shown many decades of continuous improvement. After first reviewing historical trends and the current outlook, in this paper we discuss the challenges and opportunities in future computing systems due to the disruptive confluence of stalled scaling and emerging AI workloads. Heterogeneous integration is highlighted as a key means to future systems performance growth.
Broadband Parallel Doherty Power Amplifier in GaN for 5G Applications

This work presents a wideband parallel symmetric Doherty power amplifier with 300 MHz bandwidth and 8 dB power back-off dynamic range for potential base-station applications. The PA operates from 3.3 to 3.6 GHz with over 9 dB of gain and maintains an output power of 45 dBm at 3dB gain compression. Simulation results show peak drain efficiency from 67% to 73% across the frequency band, and 46% to 54% efficiency across the band at 8 dB output power back-off. The benefits and drawbacks of designing a parallel Doherty amplifier compared to a conventional Doherty are highlighted within this paper.
Cyborgs: Jeanette Winterson’s The Stone Gods

This chapter analyses Jeanette Winterson’s recursive novel The Stone Gods in relation to the Anthropocene as an emerging reformulation of humanity as a planetary force. Examining the relationship between Billie and her Robo Sapien lover, Spike, I trace this couple’s affair as they fall in love, die, and meet again on a different planet, billions of years later. The novel’s recursive narrative structure is captured in the iconic picture of earth as seen from outer space, an image that orbits the novel. This image illustrates the concept of “unlimited finitude” or a notion of reprogrammability that has informed both contemporary biotechnology and parts of the environmentalist movement. Winterson’s spiralling narrative structure interrupts linear, dystopian visions of biotechnological mastery and apocalyptic visions of extinction. This narrative of repetition and difference also formulates a feminist evolution that emphasizes the radical potential of “nature” to change, unseating entrenched elements of capitalist patriarchy.
Candida albicans Impacts Staphylococcus aureus Alpha-Toxin Production via Extracellular Alkalinization.

ABSTRACT Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus are common causes of nosocomial infections with severe morbidity and mortality. Murine polymicrobial intra-abdominal infection (IAI) with C. albicans and S. aureus results in acute mortality dependent on the secreted cytolytic effector alpha-toxin. Here, we confirmed that alpha-toxin is elevated during polymicrobial growth compared to monomicrobial growth in vitro. Therefore, this study sought to unravel the mechanism by which C. albicans drives enhanced staphylococcal alpha-toxin production. Using a combination of functional and genetic approaches, we determined that an intact agr quorum sensing regulon is necessary for enhanced alpha-toxin production during coculture and that a secreted candidal factor likely is not implicated in elevating agr activation. As the agr system is pH sensitive, we observed that C. albicans raises the pH during polymicrobial growth and that this correlates with increased agr activity and alpha-toxin production. Modulation of the pH could predictably attenuate or activate agr activity during coculture. By using a C. albicans mutant deficient in alkalinization (stp2Δ/Δ), we confirmed that modulation of the extracellular pH by C. albicans can drive agr expression and toxin production. Additionally, the use of various Candida species (C. glabrata, C. dubliniensis, C. tropicalis, C. parapsilosis, and C. krusei) demonstrated that those capable of raising the extracellular pH correlated with elevated agr activity and alpha-toxin production during coculture. Overall, we demonstrate that alkalinization of the extracellular pH by the Candida species leads to sustained activation of the staphylococcal agr system. IMPORTANCECandida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus are commonly coisolated from central venous catheters and deep-seated infections, including intra-abdominal sepsis. Thus, they represent a significant cause of nosocomial morbidity and mortality. Yet how these organisms behave in the context of polymicrobial growth remains poorly understood. In this work, we set out to determine the mechanism by which activation of the staphylococcal agr quorum sensing system and production of its major virulence effector alpha-toxin is enhanced during coculture with C. albicans. Surprisingly, we likely ruled out that a secreted candidal factor drives this process. Instead, we demonstrated that alkalinization of the extracellular milieu by C. albicans and other Candida species correlated with elevated agr activity. Thus, we propose a mechanism where modulation of the extracellular pH by fungal opportunists can indirectly alter virulence of a bacterial pathogen. Uncovering molecular events that drive interkingdom pathogenicity mechanisms may enhance surveillance and treatment for devastating polymicrobial infections.