cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A 2.7mW 2MHz Continuous-Time ΣΔ Modulator with a Hybrid Active-Passive Loop Filter

We present a 5th -order continuous-time SigmaDelta modulator with a hybrid active-passive loop filter consisting of only three amplifiers. The passive integrators save power, and introduce no distortion. The active integrators provide gain and minimize internal noise contributions. A single-bit switched-capacitor DAC is employed as the main feedback DAC for high clock jitter immunity. An additional current steering DAC stabilizes the loop with the advantage of simplicity. To verify the proposed techniques, a prototype continuous-time ΣΔ modulator with 2 MHz signal bandwidth is designed in a 0.25 μm CMOS technology targeting for GPS or WCDMA applications. The experimental results show that the prototype ΣΔ modulator achieves 68 dB dynamic range over 2 MHz bandwidth with a 150 MHz clock, consuming 1.8 mA from a 1.5 V supply.
Representations in the Human Prefrontal Cortex

The prefrontal cortex (PFC) in humans has been studied for more than a century, but many crucial questions about its functions remain unanswered. This paper will highlight a few key differences between human and animal PFCs, and between the human PFC (HPFC) and other parts of the human brain. We then make a case that the HPFC is critically important for executing behaviors over time and integrating disparate information from throughout the brain. Finally, we will focus on our position in the current debate regarding how the HPFC performs its functions and discuss future directions for research.
Within-Host Bacterial Diversity Hinders Accurate Reconstruction of Transmission Networks from Genomic Distance Data

The prospect of using whole genome sequence data to investigate bacterial disease outbreaks has been keenly anticipated in many quarters, and the large-scale collection and sequencing of isolates from cases is becoming increasingly feasible. While sequence data can provide many important insights into disease spread and pathogen adaptation, it remains unclear how successfully they may be used to estimate individual routes of transmission. Several studies have attempted to reconstruct transmission routes using genomic data; however, these have typically relied upon restrictive assumptions, such as a shared topology of the phylogenetic tree and a lack of within-host diversity. In this study, we investigated the potential for bacterial genomic data to inform transmission network reconstruction. We used simulation models to investigate the origins, persistence and onward transmission of genetic diversity, and examined the impact of such diversity on our estimation of the epidemiological relationship between carriers. We used a flexible distance-based metric to provide a weighted transmission network, and used receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curves and network entropy to assess the accuracy and uncertainty of the inferred structure. Our results suggest that sequencing a single isolate from each case is inadequate in the presence of within-host diversity, and is likely to result in misleading interpretations of transmission dynamics – under many plausible conditions, this may be little better than selecting transmission links at random. Sampling more frequently improves accuracy, but much uncertainty remains, even if all genotypes are observed. While it is possible to discriminate between clusters of carriers, individual transmission routes cannot be resolved by sequence data alone. Our study demonstrates that bacterial genomic distance data alone provide only limited information on person-to-person transmission dynamics.
Somatic Expression of ENRAGE is Associated with Obesity Status among Patients with Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma

An association between obesity and development of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) has been established in the literature; however, there are limited data regarding the molecular mechanisms that underlie this association. Therefore, we used a multistage design to identify and validate genes that are associated with obesity-related ccRCC. We conducted a microarray study and compared gene expression between obese and non-obese subjects in ccRCC tumors and patient-matched normal kidney tissues. Analyses were stratified by smoking status and subsequently performed on the combined cohort. The primary objective was to identify genes where the fold change of ccRCC tumor expression between obese and non-obese subjects was different than the fold change in the patient-matched normal kidney tissue. Thus, we utilized a mixed model and evaluated the tissue type-by-obesity status interaction term. Targeted validation was performed using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) on an independent cohort. ENRAGE was identified in the microarray study and subsequently validated using RT-PCR to have a statistically significant tissue type-by-obesity status interaction. Specifically, although ENRAGE is similarly expressed across obese and non-obese subjects in normal tissue, it is upregulated in the patient-matched ccRCC tumor tissue. Additionally, ENRAGE is upregulated in tumors that are wild-type for the von Hippel Lindau gene and in tumors for subjects with poorer overall survival. In summary, we provide evidence that overexpression of ENRAGE in ccRCC tumor tissue is an obesity-associated somatic alteration. Upregulation of ENRAGE could lead to local, autocrine stimulation of the RAGE receptor and thus support cancer progression.
Asymmetry and Mating Success in a Periodical Cicada, Magicicada septendecim (Hemiptera: Cicadidae)

Phenotypic symmetry results from both a genetic predisposition and the influence of the developmental environment. Although most studies of mate choice and phenotypic asymmetry are couched in terms of active choice for good genes, an alternative viewpoint is to consider incidental mating biases that arise from the functional effects of asymmetrical phenotypes. This paper (i) discusses the specific situations in which symmetry-based mate choice may be likely, and (ii) presents research on female mate choice and symmetry in the periodical cicada, Magicicada septendecim (L.). Male mating aggregations and lack of mating gifts or parental care make this species an ideal target for studying female choice for superior mates, and thus for a relationship between male symmetry and male mating success.
Serotonin uptake blockers inhibit the firing of presumed serotonergic dorsal raphe neurons in vitro

Some antidepressant drugs are potent inhibitors of neuronal uptake of serotonin. In vivo, these compounds inhibit serotonergic dorsal raphe neuronal firing rates, presumably through increased stimulation of 5-HT1a autoreceptors. We recorded from electrophysiologically identified serotonergic dorsal raphe neurons in rat brain slices and determined the effects of five serotonin uptake blockers on the firing rates of these units in vitro. Each drug decreased the neuronal firing rates in a concentration-dependent manner. IC50 values derived from concentration-response curves are: fluvoxamine, 0.8 μM; sertraline, 1.1 μM; imipramine, 2.7 μM; chlorimipramine, 2.8 μM; and fluoxetine, 4.2 μM. Exposure of brain slices to 10 μM tetrabenazine, a serotonin depleting agent, prior to treatment with serotonin uptake blockers resulted in a rightward shift of the concentration-response curve. In vitro single unit recording allows: (1) direct comparison with neurochemical data obtained in vitro; (2) access to tissue bypassing blood brain barrier and liver enzymes; (3) quick wash out of drug from tissue; and (4) ability to record from single unitsover long periods (hours). This in vitro test provides a fast, simple means of determining neurophysiological effects of potential antidepressant drugs on the serotonin system.
The fourth-year experience: impediments to degree completion

Undergraduates who persevere to the fourth year of their academic careers have invested a great deal of time, effort, and financial resources in their education. In spite of the effort, many do not succeed in graduating. Students from an entering class of first-time, full time freshmen from a large urban university were tracked through their undergraduate careers in an ex post facto study in search of correlates to degree completion. Stopping out, taking developmental classes, receiving an F, dropping to part time, and withdrawing from classes were all associated with failing to complete for students still enrolled in their fourth year.
The current state of resident training in genomic pathology: a comprehensive analysis using the resident in-service examination.

Objectives: To determine the current state of pathology resident training in genomic and molecular pathology. Methods: The Training Residents in Genomics (TRIG) Working Group developed survey and knowledge questions for the 2013 pathology Resident In-Service Examination (RISE). Sixteen demographic questions related to amount of training, current and predicted future use, and perceived ability in molecular pathology vs genomic medicine were included, along with five genomic pathology and 19 molecular pathology knowledge questions. Results: A total of 2,506 pathology residents took the 2013 RISE, with approximately 600 individuals per postgraduate year (PGY). For genomic medicine, 42% of PGY-4 respondents stated they had no training, compared with 7% for molecular pathology ( P < .001). PGY-4 residents’ perceived ability, comfort in discussing results, and predicted future use as a practicing pathologist were reported to be less in genomic medicine than in molecular pathology ( P < .001). Based on PGY, knowledge question scores showed a greater increase in molecular pathology than in genomic pathology. Conclusions: The RISE is a powerful tool for assessing the state of resident training in genomic pathology and current results suggest a significant deficit. The results also provide a baseline to assess future initiatives to improve genomics education for pathology residents such as those developed by the TRIG Working Group.
Adoption of a New Online Travel Management System for FED-AK

This case describes the implementation of an online travel management system at FED-AK, the Alaska office of a U.S. government agency. The previous system was intended to accomplish the same functionality, but due to employee resistance, it was used only as a forms generator in conjunction with a paper-and mail-based process. The new system is integrated, which compels employees to use all the functionality provided. It also incorporates many lessons learned from the old system-in particular, extensive training and online help functions. The system is expected to significantly reduce the cost of travel by minimizing errors, enforcing policies, and reducing transaction costs. The system will also lead to faster reimbursement of employee travel expenses.
Ocean Ecology: Don't Fence Me in

New research that combines ocean circulation and genetic models to predict population structure of corals will help conservation efforts in tropical reef ecosystems.
A multidimensional shrinkage-thresholding operator

The scalar shrinkage-thresholding operator (SSTO) is a key ingredient of many modern statistical signal processing algorithms including: sparse inverse problem solutions, wavelet denoising, and JPEG2000 image compression. In these applications, it is customary to select the threshold of the operator by solving a scalar sparsity penalized quadratic optimization. In this work, we present a natural multidimensional extension of the scalar shrinkage thresholding operator. Similarly to the scalar case, the threshold is determined by the minimization of a convex quadratic form plus an euclidean penalty, however, here the optimization is performed over a domain of dimension N ≥ 1. The solution to this convex optimization problem is called the multidimensional shrinkage threshold operator (MSTO). The MSTO reduces to the standard SSTO in the special case of N = 1. In the general case of N ≫ 1 the optimal MSTO threshold can be found by a simple convex line search. We present three illustrative applications of the MSTO in the context of non-linear regression: l 2 -penalized linear regression, Group LASSO linear regression and Group LASSO logistic regression.
Development of compost-based media for containerized perennials

Growth of Bolivian sunset (Gloxinia sylvatica (HBK) Wiehler), Brazilian plume (Justicia carnea Lindl.), and golden globe (Lysimachia congestiflora) transplants was evaluated in media containing 25, 50, 75, or 100% compost (derived from biosolids and yard trimmings) as compared to commercial peat-based media. Compost-based media had higher pH, EC, bulk density, particle density and total porosity as compared to peat-based media. The effects of media composition on plant growth and development varied with each species tested. Gloxinia generally were smaller with reduced flower development when grown in compost-based media as compared to peat-based media. However, regardless of media composition, plants were of high visual color and quality. Justicia were similar in size or smaller when grown in compost-based media as compared to peat-based media but flower development was unaffected. However, the visual color and quality of the plants suffered when plants were grown in compost alone. Growth indexes of Lysimachia were similar among media or slightly reduced by 12%. Although, flower development was reduced by 16% in the second trial, plants were still acceptable in terms of visual color and quality, regardless of media composition.
Relationships between depression, gender, and unhealthy weight loss practices among overweight or obese college students.

Abstract Introduction Unhealthy weight loss practices are common among female college students. It is unknown if these practices are also most common among women in the subset of overweight or obese college students or if these practices are related to depression. We examined the relationship between gender, depression, and unhealthy weight loss practices among overweight or obese college students. Methods Students (body mass index between 25.0 and 34.9 kg/m2) from three Southern California universities (Mage = 22 years, SD = 4; 70% women) were recruited from May 2011 to May 2012 for participation in a weight loss clinical trial (N = 404). Logistic regressions were performed with baseline data to assess the cross-sectional relationship between self-reported unhealthy weight loss practices and gender and depression as measured by the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression short form. Results Twenty-nine percent of participants reported engaging in at least one unhealthy weight loss behavior (e.g., fasting, purging) over the last 30 days, with no differences by gender. Self-report of at least one unhealthy weight loss behavior was associated with report of symptoms of depression (eB = 1.14 [confidence interval, CI: 1.08–1.20]), adjusting for potential confounders. Interactions between gender and depression were not significant (eB = 1.04 [CI: 0.93–1.16]). Conclusion Among an overweight or obese sample of college students, unhealthy weight loss practices were equally common in both genders, and students with depressive symptomatology were at greatest risk. Obesity interventions targeting overweight or obese college students should educate both men and women about the dangers of unhealthy weight loss practices. In addition, screening for depression can help identify students who would benefit from additional supportive and coping strategies and resources.
Differences in lumbopelvic motion between people with and people without low back pain during two lower limb movement tests.

Background—Clinical data suggest that active limb movements may be associated with early lumbopelvic motion and increased symptoms in people with low back pain. Methods—Forty-one people without low back pain who did not play rotation-related sports and 50 people with low back pain who played rotation-related sports were examined. Angular measures of limb movement and lumbopelvic motion were calculated across time during active knee flexion and active hip lateral rotation in prone using a three-dimensional motion capture system. Timing of lumbopelvic motion during the limb movement tests was calculated as the difference in time between the initiation of limb movement and lumbopelvic motion normalized to limb movement time. Findings—During knee flexion and hip lateral rotation, people with low back pain demonstrated a greater maximal lumbopelvic rotation angle and earlier lumbopelvic rotation, compared to people without low back pain (P<0.05). Interpretation—The data suggest that people with low back pain who play rotation-related sports may move their lumbopelvic region to a greater extent and earlier during lower limb movements than people without low back pain. Because people perform many of their daily activities in early to midranges of joint motion the lumbopelvic region may move more frequently across the day in people with low back pain. The increased frequency may contribute to increased lumbar region tissue stress and potentially low back pain symptoms. Lower limb movements, therefore, may be important factors related to the development or persistence of low back pain.
Comments on: A review on empirical likelihood methods for regression.

Professors Chen and Keilegom have given a comprehensive and timely review on recent developments of empirical likelihood methods for regression. They have covered a wide array of topics including parametric regression, nonparametric regression, semiparametric regression, missing data, censored data regression, and goodness-of-fit tests. Our discussion will focus only on Sect. 6.1 regarding semiparametric linear regression for randomly right-censored data. Here we prefer to use the term “semiparametric regression” instead of “parametric regression” for Sect. 6.1 since the probabilistic model includes the completely unknown error distribution as a non-parametric component. Professors Chen and Keilegom have discussed two popular empirical likelihood (EL) methods, a synthetic data EL method (cf. Qin and Jing 2001, Li and Wang 2003, and Qin and Tsao 2003), and a censored data EL method (cf. Zhou and Li 2008) for semiparametric linear regression with censored data. These two methods are based on the approaches of Koul, Susarla, and Van Ryzin (KSV) (1981) and Buckley and James (1979), respectively. Their properties have also been contrasted nicely in the paper. In particular, the synthetic data EL method requires a restrictive assumption that the censoring time C is independent of both the covariate X and the survival time Y, whereas the censored data EL method of Zhou and Li (2008) only assumes that the censoring time C is conditionally independent of Y given X. Below we present some numerical examples to illustrate that the synthetic data approach is very sensitive to the independence assumption of C and X. Hence caution should be exercised when using the synthetic data approach in practice. For simplicity, we only consider point estimation in the following discussion.
Juvenile hormone esterase is a biochemical anti-juvenile hormone agent.

Juvenile hormone esterase, purified by affinity chromatography from the larval hemolymph of Manduca sexta in the fifth stadium, was injected into larvae of the same species in the earlier stadia resulting in a blackening of the cuticle following ecdysis to the next larval stadium. This anti-juvenile hormone response was dose-dependent for an injection in the second, third or fourth stadium. Cuticular blackening was prevented by treating larvae with the juvenoid epofenonane. Larval response to injected juvenile hormone esterase also varied with the time of injection within a single stadium, having a maximum effect for injections at the time of head capsule slippage. Juvenile hormone esterase activity measured from the hemolymph after injection of larvae in the second stadium decreased over an 11 h time-course. Because the anti-juvenile hormone effects resulting from a single injection of juvenile hormone esterase were dependent on the time of injection, it appears that when juvenile hormone biosynthesis is active in the insect, the duration of enzyme activity limits the anti-juvenile effects that can be induced. Key Word Index: juvenile hormone esterase, anti-juvenile hormone agent, Manduca sexta, affinity chromatography of esterase, biological role of esterase
Characteristics of Adrenergic Binding Sites Associated with Murine Lymphocytes Isolated from Spleen

AbstractBeta-adrenergic binding sites have been identified and characterized on murine lymphocytes. The binding sites are of two distinct classes, a high affinity class which has an apparent dissociation constant of about 1 × 10−9M and numbers about 500 sites per cell, and a higher capacity binding class that appears to be more characteristic of a non-specific binding site. The binding of a beta-adrenergic radioligand at concentrations about equal to the Kd (dissociation constant) for the high affinity site can be competed for with classical adrenergic ligands, is reversible and does not display cooperative interactions.
A spatially resolved surface kinetic model for forsterite dissolution

Abstract The development of complex alteration layers on silicate mineral surfaces undergoing dissolution is a widely observed phenomenon. Given the complexity of these layers, most kinetic models used to predict rates of mineral–fluid interactions do not explicitly consider their formation. As a result, the relationship between the development of the altered layers and the final dissolution rate is poorly understood. To improve our understanding of the relationship between the alteration layer and the dissolution rate, we developed a spatially resolved surface kinetic model for olivine dissolution and applied it to a series of closed-system experiments consisting of three-phases (water (±NaCl), olivine, and supercritical CO 2 ) at conditions relevant to in situ mineral carbonation ( i.e. 60 °C, 100 bar CO 2 ). We also measured the corresponding δ 26/24 Mg of the dissolved Mg during early stages of dissolution. Analysis of the solid reaction products indicates the formation of Mg-depleted layers on the olivine surface as quickly as 2 days after the experiment was started and before the bulk solution reached saturation with respect to amorphous silica. The δ 26/24 Mg of the dissolved Mg decreased by approximately 0.4‰ in the first stages of the experiment and then approached the value of the initial olivine (−0.35‰) as the steady-state dissolution rate was approached. We attribute the preferential release of 24 Mg to a kinetic effect associated with the formation of a Mg-depleted layer that develops as protons exchange for Mg 2+ . We used experimental data to calibrate a surface kinetic model for olivine dissolution that includes crystalline olivine, a distinct “active layer” from which Mg can be preferentially removed, and secondary amorphous silica precipitation. By coupling the spatial arrangement of ions with the kinetics, this model is able to reproduce both the early and steady-state long-term dissolution rates, and the kinetic isotope fractionation. In the early stages of olivine dissolution the overall dissolution rate is controlled by exchange of protons for Mg, while the steady-state dissolution rate is controlled by the net removal of both Mg and Si from the active layer. Modeling results further indicate the importance of the spatial coupling of individual reactions that occur during olivine dissolution. The inclusion of Mg isotopes in this study demonstrates the utility of using isotopic variations to constrain interfacial mass transfer processes. Alternative kinetic frameworks, such as the one presented here, may provide new approaches for modeling fluid–rock interactions.
Clinical approach to weight loss in the patient with HIV infection.

SUMMARY The loss of body weight is a common finding in the setting of AIDS or ARC. Weight loss usually heralds the appearance of an AIDS-associated infectious disease or neoplasm. Multiple mechanisms for catabolism exist, including decreased caloric intake, excessive caloric loss, and increased metabolic caloric consumption. Among the most serious implications of weight loss is the fact that many of the immune defects observed in persons with AIDS are exacerbated by protein-calorie malnutrition. There are myriad causes of weight loss in patients with AIDS and ARC. A systematic and thorough diagnostic approach guided by the patient’s presenting symptoms often yields an etiology and therapeutic direction.
The Challenge of Solid-State Lasers for Inertial Confinement Fusion

Development of megajoule-class, solid-state lasers for the National Ignition Facility and future ICF facilities requiring challenging levels of laser beam control and flexibility will be discussed.
The Intergroup Politics of Support for Multilingual Voting Rights

Questions concerned with public attitudes toward immigrant voting rights are increasingly pressing ones in the contemporary U.S. context. This paper examines individual beliefs about the conditions under which foreign-born people should have access to the most fundamental form of influence in the democratic process. Focusing on the issue of minority language voting rights, I examine determinants of support for multilingual versus English only election ballots. Based on a multivariate analysis of data from the Election 2008 and Beyond Survey (nationally representative with oversamples of blacks, Latinos, and Asians), I argue that support for multilingual election ballots can be explained significantly by perceptions of intergroup competition and cooperation along lines of nativity and race. Specifically, I find that stronger agreement about competition between the foreign-born and the native-born over resources such as jobs, housing, and healthcare results in less support for multilingual ballots, while stronger agreement about the potential for political cooperation among whites, blacks, Latinos, and Asian Americans leads to greater support. I then examine the political effects of specific configurations of cross-racial alliances among racial minorities (black-Latino, black-Asian, Asian-Latino), comparing variation across racial groups and underscoring the substantive implications for mobilizing electoral participation among new or recent immigrants.
The subject that is not one: On the ethics of mysticism

Any anthropological approach to ethics that gives a central place to subjects and the positions they might occupy is obliged sooner or later to address an apparent paradox, instances of which are w...
CubeSat Development in Education and into Industry

Cal Poly and Stanford students have worked together since 1999 to develop a picosatellite standard, called the CubeSat Standard. The CubeSat standard, with its small size (a 10-cm cube weighing up to 1 kg) and low launch cost, allows for an accelerated development schedule, which contributes greatly to educating current and future space scientists and engineers. The CubeSat Program provides students with opportunities to develop skills in teambuilding, systems integration, distributed engineering collaboration, complete product development lifecycle, and project management.
Return to Play After Shoulder Surgery in Throwers

The throwing athlete's shoulder is a unique, complex entity with challenges in diagnosis and management. The shoulders in these athletes possess unique biomechanics and pathologic conditions. Unfortunately, return to play outcomes are often poor when specifically evaluating overhead athletes, especially with regard to SLAP repair. It is imperative for the surgeon to be cautious when indicating these athletes for surgery, because although they may demonstrate improvements in pain and general function, subtle changes in accuracy or velocity as a result of surgery can significantly affect the success of an overhead throwing athlete at the competitive level.
Karst Land Use Regulation in Rural Settings

The specific nature of the issues relating to regulation and land use are different in rural areas than in urbanized areas, and they often require taking a different approach in addressing those issues. This chapter examines questions of karst land use regulation in rural areas through a pair of case studies. The first case study describes attempts to develop a parcel of land containing Brooksville Ridge Cave in Hernando County, Florida, and helps to illuminate both the role and limitations of land use regulation in protecting unique karst features from the inevitable damage that a large-scale residential development would bring with it. The second case study examines the development and implementation of a protected area plan in Romania’s rural Apuseni Natural Park, where park managers have faced significant obstacles in the implementation of an enforceable set of regulations that would protect the park’s noteworthy karst resources.
Business as Usual? Strategic Trade Flows since 9/11 between the United States and Mexico

There is a strong economic interaction between the United States and Mexico, far more than many people are aware of. Given its proximity and trade liberalization, Mexico is one of the main trading partners of the United States. For instance, approximately 90 percent of Mexico’s exports go to the United States and around 60 percent of its imports are from the United States.1 Trade between these countries has grown rapidly, especially since Mexico joined GATT in 1986, and particularly with the implementation of NAFTA in 1994. In fact, before NAFTA (1993), total trade through the U.S.-Mexico border accounted for approximately $67.8 billion. By 2007, more than $278.1 billion in merchandise trade crossed through the southern border region.
Leakage current phenomena in Mn-doped Bi(Na,K)TiO3-based ferroelectric thin films

Mn-doped 80(Bi0.5Na0.5)TiO3-20(Bi0.5K0.5)TiO3 thin films were fabricated by chemical solution deposition on Pt/TiO2/SiO2/Si substrates. Steady state and time-dependent leakage current were investigated from room temperature to 180 °C. Undoped and low-doped films showed space-charge-limited current (SCLC) at high temperatures. The electric field marking the transition from Ohmic to trap-filling-limited current increased monotonically with Mn-doping. With 2 mol. % Mn, the current was Ohmic up to 430 kV/cm, even at 180 °C. Modeling of the SCLC showed that all films exhibited shallow trap levels and high trap concentrations. In the regime of steady state leakage, there were also observations of negative differential resistivity and positive temperature coefficient of resistivity near room temperature. Both of these phenomena were confined to relatively low temperatures (below ∼60 °C). Transient currents were observed in the time-dependent leakage data, which was measured out to several hundred seconds. In the...
A Hyper-Heuristic Based On An Adapter Layer For Transportation Combinatorial Problems

Hyper-heuristics are optimization techniques for solving hard combinatorial problems. Their main feature is that their design involves an important decoupling of the search components from the problem domain ones. This allows them to extend their applicability to different problem domains without major redesign, unlike traditional methods such as metaheuristics. In this work, a hyper-heuristic is evaluated for a transportation problem. The implemented hyper-heuristic uses a greedy operator, and it implements an adapter layer that would allow it to be used in other similar problems. Experimental results shows balanced solution quality and CPU time performance, regarding other metaheuristics in literature.
Photonic crystal coupled-cavity waveguide for 1.55 /spl mu/m operation

We present an analysis of a two-dimensional photonic crystal defect based coupled-cavity waveguide (D-CCW) designed in Si-air and InGaAsP-air material systems using finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) calculations. The CCW design facilitates single mode output with narrower linewidths than conventional photonic crystal (PC) waveguides. Relatively high quality factors were observed.
A Historical Perspective on Mushroom Arthropod Pest Control

Abstract The Pennsylvania State University has conducted research on the arthropod problems of the commercial mushroom for 61 years. Initially more than 180 species of insects and other arthropods were identified as pests. Many of these identifications have since proved to be misidentifications or synonyms? on the other hand, in a few cases what originally was considered to have been one species has been found to be a complex of several species. Pests that once were considered to be major pests are no longer seen in mushroom houses largely due to changes in construction of mushroom plants which has unfavorably altered the environment for the pests. Changing management practices seems to contribute to changing pest status. Modern insecticides have contributed to improved pest control, but are not the major reason for the dramatic changes in pest status. Pest control methods need to be integrated into crop management practices.
Panoramic Monocentric Light Field Camera

We describe a monocentric wide-field camera that corrects field curvature by light field processing, showing a contiguous multi-sensor design, and results from a relay-imaged testbed that sequentially captures a 72 MPixel 138° light field panorama.
Über richtiges und wahres Denken

Ich habe es schon in der Einfuhrung uber PC-Denken und Intuition angedeutet. Es gibt verschiedene Ansatze, das Leben zu meistern. Der Systematische denkt im System, der Intuitive im Licht der Idee. Diese Erkenntnis mochte ich jetzt fur Sie vertiefen. Ich kratze fur Sie ein wenig an der Oberflache der Mathematik und wiederhole fur Sie ein paar Weisheiten uber unseren normalen Computer zu Hause. Danach ein bisschen uber neuronale Netze. Viele Menschen, vielleicht auch Sie, graut es, mit Computern verglichen zu werden. Das finde ich nicht legitim. Der Computer ist unbewusst genau so gebaut worden, wie wir uns selbst idealerweise vorstellen. Das ist doch sonnenklar! Wie hatte man ihn sonst bauen konnen? Wir halten uns selbst fur Gottes Ebenbild - und da ware uns eine bessere Idee gekommen, wonach wir Computer bauen konnten?
Long-term follow-up of patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) receiving fludarabine regimens as initial therapy.

One hundred seventy-four patients with progressive or advanced chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) have received initial therapy with fludarabine as a single agent or fludarabine combined with prednisone. The overall response rate was 78% and the median survival was 63 months. No difference in response rate or survival was noted in the 71 patients receiving fludarabine as a single agent compared with the 103 patients who received prednisone in addition. The median time to progression of responders was 31 months and the overall median survival was 74 months. Patients over the age of 70 years had shorter survivals. Patients with advanced stage disease (Rai III and IV) had a somewhat shorter survival than earlier stage patients. More than half the patients who relapsed after fludarabine therapy responded to salvage treatment, usually with fludarabine-based regimens. Second remissions were more common in patients who had achieved a complete remission on their initial treatment. The CD4 and CD8 T-lymphocyte subpopulations decreased to levels in the range of 150 to 200/μL after the first 3 courses of treatment. Although recovery towards normal levels was slow, the incidence of infections was low in patients in remission (1 episode of infection for every 3.33 patient years at risk) and decreased with time off treatment. There was no association of infections or febrile episodes with the use of corticosteroids or the CD4 count at the end of treatment and a poor correlation with the increase in CD4 counts during remission. Infectious episodes were less common in patients who had a complete response compared with partial responders. Richter’s transformation occurred in 9 patients and Hodgkin’s disease occurred in 4 patients. Five other patients died from other second malignancies. Fludarabine appears to be an effective initial induction therapy with a reasonable safety profile for patients with CLL. © 1998 by The American Society of Hematology.
Purification and properties of d-4-deoxy-5-oxoglucarate hydro-lyase (decarboxylating)

Abstract 1. An enzyme extracted from Pseudomonas acidovorans was purified and shown to catalyse the simultaneous dehydration and decarboxylation of d-4-deoxy-5-oxoglucarate. It is proposed to name the enzyme d-4-deoxy-5-oxoglucarate hydro-lyase (decarboxylating), trivial name `deoxyoxoglucarate dehydratase'. 2. No added cofactors were required, and the enzyme was inactivated when incubated with its substrate in the presence of sodium borohydride. Under these conditions the substrate and enzyme appeared to be bound covalently. 3. The action of the enzyme is readily explained if it is assumed that d-4-deoxy-5-oxoglucarate forms a Schiff base with a lysine residue in the enzyme.
Utilization of Structured Reporting to Monitor Outcomes of Doppler Ultrasound Performed for Deep Vein Thrombosis

Determining the clinical impact of imaging exams at the enterprise level is problematic, as radiology reports historically have been created with the content meant primarily for the referring provider. Structured reporting can establish the foundation for enterprise monitoring of imaging outcomes without manual review providing the framework for assessment of utilization and quality. Ultrasound (US) for deep vein thrombosis evaluation (DVT) is an ideal testbed for assessing this functionality. The system standard template for Doppler US for extremity venous evaluation for DVT was updated with a discrete fixed picklist of impression options and implemented system wide. Template utilization and interpretive outcomes were actively monitored and use reinforced as part of standard clinical practice. From January 1, 2017 to December 31, 2017, 9111 US exams for DVT were performed with 8997 utilizing structured reporting (98.75%). Of those in the structured reporting group, 1074 (11.79%) were positive for any type of DVT with 732 (8.03%) reported as Acute/New above the knee. Positive rates for any type of DVT were 10.29% emergency department, 14.17% inpatient, and 13.20% outpatient. While being the lowest positive rate, the emergency department had the highest overall volume of exams. Structured reporting for DVT US assessment outcomes can be implemented with a very high rate of radiologist adoption and adherence providing accurate determination of positive rates, month by month, in differing patient locations. Structured elements can be used to automatically trigger downstream processes; in our institution, this will alert providers in the EHR if the patient does not receive anticoagulation within 2 h of a positive test. This lays the foundation for effective enterprise assessment of imaging outcomes forming the basis of future quality and safety initiatives on optimizing health system resource utilization.
High-Speed Photodiodes for Microwave Photonics

This talk will describe recent advances in photodiodes for microwave photonics applications, specifically work focused on (1) pushing operation to higher frequencies (> 100 GHz), (2) moving to Si photonics platforms, and (3) studies of the physical mechanisms that contribute to nonlinearities.
Genetic legacies of translocation and relictual populations of American marten at the southeastern margin of their distribution

American marten were extirpated from much of their native range in the northeastern United States as a result of land development and overharvesting before the mid-twentieth century. Based on occurrence records, recolonization in the late twentieth century was believed to have occurred via natural population expansion from two refugia: northern Maine and the eastern Adirondack Mountains of New York. Furthermore, a 1989–1991 reintroduction attempt in southern Vermont was originally declared unsuccessful, but marten have been rediscovered in southern Vermont since 2010. We used molecular techniques to resolve uncertain population histories and estimate contemporary levels of genetic variation and gene flow in marten populations in the northeastern United States. We sequenced a 320 bp segment of the control region (D-loop) of mtDNA in 112 individuals and amplified 10 microsatellite loci in 111 individuals. Five genetic clusters were identified in the northeastern United States based on the microsatellite data: (1) Maine, (2) New Hampshire, (3) eastern Adirondacks (New York), (4) western Adirondacks (New York), and (5) southern Vermont. Clustering and assignment tests suggest that individuals in southern Vermont are most likely to have originated in Maine—the primary source of the reintroduction. However, we were unable to rule out the possibility of a relict population in southern Vermont. Population expansion in New Hampshire appears to be the primary source of recolonization in northeastern Vermont. Additionally, dispersers from the reintroduction attempt may have spread to northeastern Vermont. Genetic diversity is lower in the entire northeastern United States than an interior population in Ontario, Canada. This study improves our understanding of population history in the northeastern United States. Relict populations of marten may have persisted through the nineteenth and twentieth centuries where they were believed to have been extirpated. Recognizing and conserving all of the distinct subsets of native genetic diversity in the region could promote long-term population health.
Tuning N , N ‑DiarylanilinosquaraineCrystal Packing: n ‑Hexylaryl and FluoroarylSubstitution

X-ray diffraction results for single crystals of N,N-diarylanilinosquaraines (SQ-TAAs) 2,4-bis(4-bis(p-R-phenyl)amino)-2,6-dihydroxyphenyl)cyclobuta-1,3-diene-1,3-bis(olate) for R = F (SQ-TAA-F) and R = n-hexyl (SQ-TAA-C6) are reported. SQ-TAA-F (an ambipolar charge transporter) forms π-stacked dyads intercolated by cross-stacked molecules, a unique motif among the systems studied. Its [C]–H···F contacts induce this intermolecular packing and may account for its ambipolar charge transport behavior. SQ-TAA-C6 (a hole charge transporter) forms strongly slip-stacked 1-D chains aligned along molecular long axes. SQ-TAA-C6 exhibits packing of its conjugated core structure that is similar to those for SQ-TAAs with R = H and R = OH, which also exhibit qualitative hole transport properties. SQ-TAA-C6 has one n-hexyl group that is not fully extended, but all of its alkyl groups pack into alkyl rich planes that alternate with SQ-TAA core rich planes to form the overall lattice.
Abstract 3626: Develop novel nanoparticle formulations of disulfiram copper for cancer therapy

Despite remarkable progress in cancer treatment, drug resistance remains a significant issue for prostate cancer, breast cancer, and others. Disulfiram (DSF), an alcohol-aversion drug, has been repurposed for cancer treatment and overcome drug resistance. DSF and copper ions form a copper diethyldithiocarbamate (Cu-DSF) complex which has a potent anticancer activity. However, the poor aqueous solubility of Cu-DSF creates a significant formulation challenge, and there is no formulation available for clinical use. We developed a S tabilized M etal I on L igand Nanocompl e x ( SMILE ) technology to prepare Cu-DSF nanoparticle (NP) formulations where in situ formed DSF-Cu NPs were stabilized by an optimal amount of stabilizers ( e.g. poly(ethylene glycol)-poly(lactide)). The SMILE technology involves a novel formulation design and an innovative preparation process using a 3D-printed microfluidic device. After optimizing the protocol, we can prepare Cu-DSF NPs with size in the sub-100 nm range which are suitable for intravenous injection and can target solid tumors through enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effects. Cu-DSF NPs prepared with SMILE method showed high drug loading efficiency (above 90%) and high drug concentration (at least 2 mg/mL). The drug concentration of Cu-DSF NPs developed in our study was much higher than those in micelle NP formulations prepared with the classical film-dispersion method. Since we used generally recognized as safe (GRAS) excipients approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or other excipients with well-recognized safety profiles, the developed NP formulations will have less regulatory hurdle for FDA approval. Because of the novel preparation process and unique formulation design, the SMILE technology can produce Cu-DSF NPs on a large scale and thus paved the way for its mass production and commercialization. We also determined the anticancer effects of Cu-DSF NPs with multiple assays including MTT assay, colony-forming assay, calcein-AM/propidium iodide staining, and others. Cu-DSF NPs showed excellent anticancer activity against various prostate cancer and breast cancer cells as well as drug-resistant cancer cells. In summary, we developed a novel SMILE method to prepare Cu-DSF NP formulations which could address drug delivery and formulation challenges of DSF-based chemotherapy and facilitate the clinical translation. Citation Format: Wu Chen, Wen Yang, Landon F. Stewart, David T. Coombs, Jianzhong Shen, Pengyu Chen, Feng LI. Develop novel nanoparticle formulations of disulfiram copper for cancer therapy [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2019; 2019 Mar 29-Apr 3; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 3626.
Differentiating presacral masses in anorectal malformations and isolated sacrococcygeal teratomas

Presacral masses associated with anorectal malformations (ARM) are most frequently dermoid or teratomas. Sacrococcygeal teratoma (SCT), in isolation, is a different condition. There are limited data comparing the two. The aim of this study was to compare presacral masses associated with ARM and isolated SCTs. A retrospective review was performed from 1979 to 2018. Patients with presacral masses and associated ARM (n = 39) were identified and compared to patients with isolated SCTs (n = 32). Those with presacral mass and ARM had a lower proportion of immature and mixed teratomas by pathology and a longer time to mass resection. They had higher percentages of sacral anomalies (76% versus 9%), tethered cord (50% versus 6%), and other anomalies (51% versus 9%). For long-term bowel function, patients with presacral mass and ARM were more likely to be fecally incontinent and require enemas (59% versus 11%). Regarding isolated SCTs, 4% recurred with a time to recurrence of 7 months. Compared to patients with isolated SCT, patients with presacral mass and ARM had lower grade tumors. In addition, they had a higher proportion of sacral defects and other congenital defects, as well as worse bowel function outcomes.
Do psychopathic traits distinguish trajectories of gang membership

Prior work that examines different stages of gang membership (joining, time in gang, and leaving) indicates that the gang experience is unique to each individual member. However, we know little abo...