cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Highly-overlapped, recursive partial least squares soft sensor with state partitioning via local variable selection

Abstract We report the use of a soft sensor ensemble based on recursive partial least squares with a large number of overlapping models. The proposed method uses process memory attenuation in the ensemble by varying the number of training samples included in each model, while always including the most recent samples, which are usually the most relevant for prediction of new samples, and also ensures that no local models are invalidated due to drift. To achieve state partitioning of the process data, covariance-based variable selection is performed on each of the model regions to ensure that only variables most relevant to the dominant process state are included in each of the local models. This approach yields a distribution of predictions from the models, permitting a prediction of the target property from the summary statistics of the observed prediction distribution. The effectiveness of the proposed method is demonstrated by testing against a conventional global soft sensor as well as a state-localized soft sensor, both with and without variable selection, on two soft sensing applications developed from real industrial processes employing various model updating frequencies. Results from the experiments demonstrate that the proposed method tends to outperform a global soft sensor in most cases, and is highly competitive with the compared state-localized soft sensor, indicating that the proposed method achieves accurate state partitioning.
Nanoscale isotopic imaging and trace analysis by extreme ultraviolet laser ablation mass spectrometry

Extreme ultraviolet laser ablation mass spectrometry isotopie imaging and analysis with 80 nm spatial resolution are demonstrated.
Keratinocyte growth factor increases LTC4 synthesis and expression of flap in cultured rat alveolar type II cells.

Alveolar type II epithelial cells (ATII) play a key role in maintaining the integrity of the distal airspaces of the lung through the production of surfactant, transport of ions and formation of a permeability barrier for high molecular weight solutes. ATII also participate in inflammatory responses in the lung through synthesis, expression and release of adhesion molecules, cytokines, growth factors and eicosanoids. Further, ATII are essential for repair after lung injury by virtue of their ability to proliferate, re-establish an intact epithelial surface and differentiate into alveolar type I cells, which comprise the vast majority of the surface area of the normal alveolar epithelium.
Feasibility Study of Making Metallic Hybrid Materials Using Additive Manufacturing

A metallic hybrid structure, consisting of an Inconel-718 matrix and a Co-Cr internal structure, was successfully manufactured using laser direct energy deposition process. Characterizations were performed using energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), neutron-computed tomography (nCT), and electron back-scatter diffraction (EBSD) to verify the interfaces between Co-rich and Ni-rich phases. nCT revealed the internal structures to be continuous without cracking or significant intermixing due to inter-diffusion of Co and Ni (i.e., dissolved boundaries between the two structures). Minor porosity was detected. EBSD confirmed a good bond at the granular level. No precipitate phases were detected with XRD. EDS revealed dilution/intermixing between the Co and Ni interfaces presumably due to melt-pool overlay between the matrix and the internal structures.
Naked T Tauri stars in II Sco and Ori OBIc

The Naked T Tauri stars (NTTS) are a population of low mass, pre-main sequence stars which lack the continuum excesses and strong emission lines of the classical T Tauri stars (CTTS). Some 150 such stars are now known in and near regions of star formation in Tau-Aur, Ori, Sco-Oph, and CrA. I briefly review the properties of the NTTS. I then summarize recent results of searches for NTTS in the II Sco and Ori OBIc OB associations. These data are used to investigate the stellar populations and mass functions in regions of star formation.
Freedom of contract for alternative entities in Delaware: myth or reality?

In the law of alternative entities, Delaware has gained a reputation as a jurisdiction that honors freedom of contract, both by statute and by judicial decisions. Its judiciary purports to eschew judicial shenanigans, that, in other jurisdictions, provide relief for partners in partnerships and members in limited liability companies who have made regrettable bargains. But is the Delaware judiciary really true to the concept of contractual freedom? What does it do when faced with a really hard case -- will it toe the freedom of contract line?A number of Delaware cases can give one pause about the commitment of the Delaware judiciary to freedom of contract, either because the language of the opinion seems less than absolute or the result can be characterized as an implicit rejection of freedom of contract. The latter are relatively rare, but extant, while the former are abundant. In this chapter, I explore the extent to which the Delaware courts embrace the freedom of contract in light of the statutory and common law mandates requiring that they do.
The Inflammatory Milieu

Idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs) are characterized by mononuclear inflammatory cell infiltrates in skeletal muscle with associated weakness and fatigue, although often the severity of inflammation does not correlate with clinical severity. Inflammation of other organs such as skin, lung, and gastrointestinal tract may also occur. IIMs are classified based on clinical, immunologic, and histopathologic features and include, but are not limited to, adult and juvenile dermatomyositis (DM and JDM, respectively), polymyositis (PM), and sporadic inclusion body myositis (IBM). Mononuclear cells are typically the major component of muscle inflammatory infiltrates in IIMs and include T lymphocytes (T cells), macrophages, dendritic cells (DCs), and B lymphocytes (B cells). Patterns of IIM inflammatory infiltrates include diffuse, endomysial, and perivascular. Endomysial infiltrates are composed primarily of T cells, with a high prevalence of CD8+ T cells, and to a lesser extent CD4+ T cells, DCs, and macrophages. These infiltrates typically surround muscle fibers that lack features of degeneration or necrosis. Perivascular infiltrates are composed mainly of CD4+ T cells and include macrophages, DCs, and B cells. The importance of B cells is increasingly becoming appreciated, and their involvement is likely to be critical in pathologic processes, especially related to autoantibody production and formation of ectopic lymphoid aggregates. Histopathologic features and phenotypic variability of inflammatory infiltrates, localization of infiltrates, presence of rimmed vacuoles, and involvement of microvasculature all contribute to defining IIM subsets. While we do not yet fully understand the pathological processes involved in IIMs, we are gaining information and clarity at a rapid pace. With advances in immunological detection, gene expression, protein biomarkers, and imaging of immune responses, our understanding of the molecules, pathways, and cells involved in pathogenesis continues to improve. We have only just started to understand the orchestrated life of T cells, B cells, macrophages, and DCs in myositis; many questions remain unanswered on how a system that is perturbed on a daily basis involves a large-scale but localized abnormal immune reaction.
Life-Threatening Hypertriglyceridemia in a Patient on Ruxolitinib and Sirolimus for Chronic Graft-versus-Host Disease

Ruxolitinib is an oral selective Janus-associated kinase 1 (JAK1) and JAK2 inhibitor that was initially approved by the FDA in 2014 for treatment of myelofibrosis. In preclinical and retrospective clinical studies, use of ruxolitinib was shown to reduce graft-versus-host-disease (GVHD) in allograft recipients with moderate/severe corticosteroid-dependent or refractory chronic GVHD. While the exact mechanism for action in GVHD is not yet fully understood, prospective studies are ongoing and some patients are receiving ruxolitinib in the setting of steroid refractory GVHD. Although ruxolitinib is generally well tolerated, here we describe a case involving a 50-year-old man with acute myeloid leukemia and chronic GVHD who experienced life-threatening hypertriglyceridemia associated with concomitant use of sirolimus and ruxolitinib for GVHD. This case report highlights the importance of vigilance for severe side effects in novel immunosuppressive drug combinations.
Variation in bony landmarks and predictors of success with sacral neuromodulation

We assessed variations in sacral anatomy and lead placement as predictors of sacral neuromodulation (SNM) success. Based solely on bony landmarks, we also assessed the accuracy of the 9 and 2 protocol for locating S3. This is a retrospective cohort study performed from October 2008 to December 2016 at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Fluoroscopic images were used to assess sacral anatomy and lead location. Success was defined as >50% symptom improvement after stage I and clinical response at most recent follow-up. Of 249 procedures, 209 were primary implants and 40 were revisions among 187 (89.5%) women and 22 (10.5%) men. Success rate was 83.3% for primary implants and 89.4% for revisions. Success was associated with shorter implant duration (21.3 ± 22.2 vs 33.6 ± 25.8 months), higher body mass index (30.3 ± 7.8 vs 27.6 ± 6.1 kg/m2), and straight vs curved lead (90.5% vs 80.5%) (all p = .05), but not with sacral anatomy or lead placement. In assessing the 9 and 2 protocol, mean distance from coccyx to S3 did not equal 9 cm: 7.4 ± 1.0 vs 7.2 ± 0.8 cm (p = .26), while mean distance from midline to S3 did equal 2 cm: 1.9 ± 0.4 vs 2.0 ± 0.7 cm (p = .37). Variations in sacral anatomy and lead placement did not predict SNM success. The 2-cm protocol was verified while the 9-cm protocol was not, although neither was predictive of success, which may obviate the need to mark bony landmarks prior to fluoroscopy.
Time's Arrow in a Quantum Universe: On the Status of Statistical Mechanical Probabilities

In a quantum universe with a strong arrow of time, it is standard to postulate that the initial wave function started in a particular macrostate---the special low-entropy macrostate selected by the Past Hypothesis. Moreover, there is an additional postulate about statistical mechanical probabilities according to which the initial wave function is a ''typical'' choice in the macrostate (the Statistical Postulate). Together, they support a probabilistic version of the Second Law of Thermodynamics: typical initial wave functions will increase in entropy. Hence, there are two sources of randomness in such a universe: the quantum-mechanical probabilities of the Born rule and the statistical mechanical probabilities of the Statistical Postulate. I propose a new way to understand time's arrow in a quantum universe. It is based on what I call the Thermodynamic Theories of Quantum Mechanics. According to this perspective, there is a natural choice for the initial quantum state of the universe, which is given by not a wave function but by a density matrix. The density matrix plays a microscopic role: it appears in the fundamental dynamical equations of those theories. The density matrix also plays a macroscopic / thermodynamic role: it is exactly the (normalized) projection operator onto the Past Hypothesis subspace (of the Hilbert space of the universe). Thus, given an initial subspace, we obtain a unique choice of the initial density matrix. I call this property "the conditional uniqueness" of the initial quantum state. The conditional uniqueness provides a new and general strategy to eliminate statistical mechanical probabilities in the fundamental physical theories, by which we can reduce the two sources of randomness to only the quantum mechanical one. I also explore the idea of an "absolutely unique" initial quantum state, in a way that might realize Penrose's idea (1989) of a strongly deterministic universe.
An Area and Power Efficient Architecture for Linear Prediction-Error Filters Based on Split Schur Algorithm

This low-area, low-power digital circuit for computation of linear prediction-error filters for real-valued signals is proposed. Folding technique is used to reduce the number of required arithmetic hardware units to only one multiplier, one divider, and two adders. Modified split Schur algorithm with a less computational complexity than the classical Schur algorithm (and other classical algorithms) is used for implementation. The less algorithmic level computational complexity leads to a hardware with less power consumption. The proposed hardware is synthesized for FPGA implementation and compared with prior architectures of linear-prediction filters in order to demonstrate its efficiency regarding hardware and computational complexity, energy, and execution time.
Impact of three dementia‐related behaviors on caregiver depression: The role of rejection of care, aggression, and agitation

Objective The relationship of specific dementia-related behaviors to caregiver depression and moderating factors is unclear. We examined the role of rejection of care, aggression, and agitation to caregiver depression and if social support and mastery independently moderated associations. Methods The method used was a cross-sectional, secondary analysis using baseline data from two community-based clinical trials. We examined frequency of occurrence of presenting behaviors and their combinations in persons with dementia. Multiple logistic regression analyses examined associations between nonoverlapping behavioral clusters (agitation alone, agitation + rejection, agitation + aggression, and agitation + rejection + aggression) and caregiver depression. Multiple logistic regression with interaction terms was also used to investigate whether social support or caregiver mastery moderated the relationship between behavioral symptom clusters and caregiver depression. Results Three of four symptom clusters (all three behaviors [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 2.22; 95% CI, 1.02-4.83], agitation + rejection of care [AOR = 2.55; 95% CI, 1.06-6.13], and agitation + aggression [AOR = 2.63; 95% CI, 1.17-5.89]) had a positive association with caregiver depression, whereas agitation alone was not significantly associated with caregiver depression. Neither social support nor mastery significantly moderated the relationship between these three behavioral clusters and caregiver depression. Conclusion Caregiver depression was associated with different combinations of behaviors but not with agitation alone. These results have implications for intervention development and identifying caregivers at risk for depression. Level of social support and mastery does not appear to moderate impact on caregiver depression.
The Development of Marijuana Dealing Behavior During Adolescence and Early Adulthood Among Juvenile Offenders: Risk Factors for Development

Despite the amount of attention paid to marijuana use, there has yet to be any research that examines heterogeneity in the development of marijuana dealing behavior across time. This research used ...
A case study investigating temporal factors that influence microplastic concentration in streams under different treatment regimes

Microplastics, particles less than 5 mm in size, are an emerging contaminant in waterways worldwide. Most microplastic studies focus on spatial trends in concentration, but in systems as dynamic as rivers, to draw conclusions from existing spatial studies, we must first examine how microplastic concentrations may change with time and flow conditions. In this study, we investigate how microplastic concentrations change over a 24-h period and between seasonally high and low flows. We do this in two streams, controlling for wastewater treatment strategy: one stream in a watershed where waste is treated with septic systems and the other receiving wastewater treatment plant effluent. We hypothesized that a stream with wastewater treatment plant effluent would exhibit higher and more variable microplastic concentrations than a stream in a watershed with septic systems. Results indicate, however, that there is no significant difference between the two streams despite their differing treatment strategies. Additionally, no significant variation in concentrations was measured over two 24-h sampling campaigns. There was, however, significantly higher concentrations measured in summer low flow conditions relative to spring high flow conditions across both sampled streams (p value <0.001), indicating that increases in stream discharge unrelated to storm events dilute and decrease measured microplastic concentrations. From this, we learn that pairing measured concentrations with a description of flow conditions at sampling time is a requisite for a robust microplastic literature that allows for comparisons between existing spatial studies and extrapolations to global loads.
The diversity of GABAergic neurons and neural communication elements

The phenotypic diversity of cortical GABAergic neurons is probably necessary for their functional versatility in shaping the spatiotemporal dynamics of neural circuit operations underlying cognition. Deciphering the logic of this diversity requires comprehensive analysis of multi-modal cell features and a framework of neuronal identity that reflects biological mechanisms and principles. Recent high-throughput single-cell analyses have generated unprecedented data sets characterizing the transcriptomes, morphology and electrophysiology of interneurons. We posit that cardinal interneuron types can be defined by their synaptic communication properties, which are encoded in key transcriptional signatures. This conceptual framework integrates multi-modal cell features, captures neuronal input-output properties fundamental to circuit operation and may advance understanding of the appropriate granularity of neuron types, towards a biologically grounded and operationally useful interneuron taxonomy.
Viral (per)versions of power in Paolo Sorrentino's diptych Loro

This article examines Paolo Sorrentino's portrayal of moral degradation and pursuit of power in his twin biopics about Silvio Berlusconi: Loro 1 and Loro 2 (2018). It does so by performing a psychological reading of Sorrentino's representation of Berlusconi, as someone suffering from a personality disorder characterised by excessive power striving. It argues that this obsession with power also affects most of the films’ characters, who become obsessed with entering Berlusconi's inner circle – the pinnacle of wealth and power in a neoliberal society. In particular, it argues that their power striving circulates ‘virally’ in the film's narrative; the characters are willing to do anything to befriend their idol and attain absolute power. The ensuing analysis shows that Sorrentino's portrayal of Berlusconi – as the embodiment of a highly dysfunctional and obsessive, viral quest for power – comes to represent the deep pervasiveness of corruption, hedonism and commodification that marked the Second Republic.
Morphology Control of Self-Assembled Three-Phase Au-BaTiO3–ZnO Hybrid Metamaterial for Tunable Optical Properties

Microstructural control in metal-dielectric hybrid metamaterials presents enormous opportunities in tailoring the physical properties including the magnetic and optical properties. Here, we demonst...
Populism and the Deep State: The Attack on Public Service Under Trump

This paper addresses the ways in which the Trump administration has exemplified and sped up a long-term trend toward democratic backsliding in the United States by undermining public sector institutions, with particular focus on the federal career public service. While previous administrations have looked for ways to exert closer control over parts of government they are ideologically at odds with, the Trump administration has gone further. It has sidelined administrative expertise and scientists in many areas, selecting senior leaders whose lack of qualification is frequently matched only by their disdain for their organizational mission. To achieve its goals, the Trump administration has shown a willingness to push the boundaries of the law beyond its breaking point. While avoiding a direct attack on the civil service via a governmentwide reform, the Trump administration has sought to weaken the ability of public sector unions to negotiate for benefits, punished individuals and units deemed not to be politically loyal, and weakened oversight bodies such as Inspectors General. All of this has been accompanied by a rhetoric of delegitimization, where the President and his supporters frequently invoke conspiratorial theories of “deep state” plots that have been embedded in the Republican Party. The broader picture suggests that Trump is an outlier, but not an anomaly, in terms of US democratic backsliding.
Some Criticism of the Contextual Approach, and a Few Proposals

The contextual approach is a prominent framework for thinking about group selection. Here, I highlight ambiguity about what the contextual approach is. Then, I discuss problematic entailments the contextual approach has for what processes count as group selection—entailments more troublesome than typically noted. However, Sober and Wilson’s version of the Price approach, which is the main alternative to the contextual approach, is problematic too: it leads to an underappreciated paradox called the vanishing selection problem and thereby generates the wrong qualitative account of whether group selection is occurring in a certain family of cases. In response, I develop an account of group selection that can deal with the counterexamples to both the contextual approach and the Price approach. I then discuss the role that contextual analysis can continue to play in the discussion of individual fitness and metapopulation evolution.
Non-consumptive effects stabilize herbivore control over multiple generations

Understanding the factors that influence predator-prey dynamics requires an investigation of oscillations in predator and prey population sizes over time. However, empirical studies are often performed over one or fewer predator generations. This is particularly true for studies addressing the non-consumptive effects of predators on prey. In a previous study that lasted less than one predator generation, we demonstrated that two species of parasitoid wasps additively suppressed aphid populations through a combination of consumptive and non-consumptive effects. However, the non-consumptive effects of one wasp reduced the reproductive success of the other, suggesting that a longer-term experiment may have revealed antagonism between the wasps. The goal of our current study is to evaluate multi-generation consumptive and non-consumptive interactions between pea aphids (Acyrthosiphon pisum) and the wasps Aphidius ervi and Aphidius colemani. Aphidius ervi is a common natural enemy of pea aphids. Aphidius colemani is a non-consumptive enemy that does not consume pea aphids, but negatively affects pea aphid performance through behavioral disturbance. Large field cages were installed to monitor aphid abundance in response to the presence and absence of both species of wasp over four weeks (two parasitoid generations). We found that the non-consumptive enemy A. colemani initially controlled the pea aphid population, but control in the absence of parasitism was not sustainable over the long term. Aphidius ervi suppressed pea aphids through a combination of consumptive and non-consumptive effects. This suppression was more effective than that of A. colemani, but aphid abundance fluctuated over time. Suppression by A. ervi and A. colemani together was complementary, leading to the most effective and stable control of pea aphids. Therefore, promoting a diverse natural enemy community that contributes to pest control through consumptive and non-consumptive interactions may enhance the stability of herbivore population suppression over time.
Factors Associated With Postpartum Diabetes Screening in Women With Gestational Diabetes and Medicaid During Pregnancy.

Introduction Women with gestational diabetes are 7 times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes and require lifelong diabetes screening. Loss of health coverage after pregnancy, as occurs in states that did not expand Medicaid, limits access to guideline-driven follow-up care and fosters health inequity. This study aims to understand the factors associated with the receipt of postpartum diabetes screening for women with gestational diabetes in a state without Medicaid expansion. Methods Electronic health record and Medicaid claims data were linked to generate a retrospective cohort of 1,078 women with gestational diabetes receiving care in Federally Qualified Health Centers in Missouri from 2010 to 2015. In 2019–2020, data were analyzed to determine the factors associated with the receipt of recommended postpartum diabetes screening (fasting plasma glucose, 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test, or HbA1c in specified timeframes) using a Cox proportional hazards model through 18 months of follow-up. Results Median age in this predominantly urban population was 28 (IQR=24−33) years. Self-reported racial or ethnic minorities comprised more than half of the population. Only 9.7% of women were screened at 12 weeks, and 20.8% were screened at 18 months. Prenatal certified diabetes education (adjusted hazard ratio=1.74, 95% CI=1.22, 2.49) and access to public transportation (adjusted hazard ratio=1.70, 95% CI=1.13, 2.54) were associated with increased screening in a model adjusted for race/ethnicity, the total number of prenatal visits, the use of diabetes medication during pregnancy, and a pregnancy-specific comorbidity index that incorporated age. Conclusions This study underscores the importance of access to public transportation, prenatal diabetes education, and continued healthcare coverage for women on Medicaid to support the receipt of guideline-recommended follow-up care and improve health equity.
Gastric Bypass Increases Circulating Bile Acids and Activates Hepatic Farnesoid X Receptor (FXR) but Requires Intact Peroxisome Proliferator Activator Receptor Alpha (PPARα) Signaling to Significantly Reduce Liver Fat Content

We interrogate effects of gastric bypass (RYGB), compared with a low-calorie diet, on bile acid (BA), liver fat, and FXR, PPARα, and targets in rats with obesity and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Male Wistar rats received a high-fat diet (obese/NAFLD, n=24) or standard chow (lean, n=8) for 12 weeks. Obese/NAFLD rats had RYGB (n=11), sham operation pair-fed to RYGB (pair-fed sham, n=8), or sham operation (sham, n=5). Lean rats had sham operation (lean sham, n=8). Post-operatively, five RYGB rats received PPARα antagonist GW6417. Sacrifice occurred at 7 weeks. We measured weight changes, fasting total plasma BA, and liver % steatosis, triglycerides, and mRNA expression of the nuclear receptors FXR, PPARα, and their targets SHP and CPT-I. At sacrifice, obese sham was heavier (p<0.01) than all other groups that had lost similar weight loss. Obese sham had lower BA levels and lower hepatic FXR, SHP, and CPT-I mRNA expression than lean sham (P<0.05, for all comparisons). RYGB had increased BA levels compared with obese and pair-fed sham (P<0.05, for both), while pair-fed sham had BA levels, similar to obese sham. Compared with pair-fed sham, RYGB animals had increased liver FXR and PPARα expression and signaling (P<0.05). Percentage of steatosis was lower in RYGB and lean sham, relative to obese and pair-fed sham (P<0.05, for all comparisons). PPARα inhibition after RYGB resulted in similar weight loss but higher liver triglyceride content (P=0.01) compared with RYGB alone. RYGB led to greater liver fat loss than low-calorie diet, an effect associated to increased fasting BA levels and increased expression of modulators of liver fat oxidation, FXR, and PPARα. However, intact PPARα signaling was necessary for resolution of NAFLD after RYGB.
Early Adverse Events Following Pediatric Mandibular Advancement: Analysis of the ACS NSQIP-Pediatric Database:

ObjectiveThis study aims to assess early adverse events and patient factors associated with complications following mandible distraction osteogenesis (MDO).Materials and MethodsThe American College...
The Proteolytic Process in Pancreatic Disease

The diagnostic value of measuring proteolytic activity in the peripheral blood of patients with pancreatic disease has been questioned by several authors (Babson et al., 1962; Floch and Groisser, 1960). However, the fact remains that other investigators (Brown, 1959; Nardi, 1958; 1959) have demonstrated an increase in the proteolytic activity of blood taken from such patients. The purpose of this paper is to report yet another series of patients with pancreatic disease in which increases in plasma proteolytic activity is demonstrated and to inquire into the nature of the enzymes responsible for this activity.
VENTURE CAPITAL AND IPO LOCKUP EXPIRATION: AN EMPIRICAL ANALYSIS

Most initial public offerings (IPOs) feature so-called "lockup" agreements, which bar insiders from selling the stock for a set period following the IPO, usually 180 days. We examine stock price behavior in the period surrounding lockup expiration for a sample of 2,529 firms over 1988 to 1997. We find that lockup expirations are, on average, associated with significant, negative abnormal returns, but the losses are concentrated in firms with venture capital (VC) backing. For the VC-backed group, the largest losses occur for "high-tech" firms and firms with the greatest post-IPO stock price increases, the largest relative trading volume in the period surrounding expiration, and the highest quality underwriters.
Arterial cross-section measurements from dual energy transvenous coronary angiography images

The synchrotron based coronary angiography project at the National Synchrotron Light Source obtains images of coronary arteries using the digital subtraction technique after a distal venous injection of an iodine contrast agent. It allows two areal mass densities to be calculated from these images; one of the iodine and one of the water. Analysis procedures have been developed to arrive at these areal mass densities with corrections to the values being made for detector cross-talk and beam harmonics. From the iodine mass density distribution the relative arterial cross-section area is determined by a line integration across the arterial feature. Results are given for an iodine tube phantom showing that the relative area of a feature whose lateral dimensions are smaller than the detector pixel resolution can be determined to a few percent. Also, results are shown from a human image, showing the relative area of the right coronary artery mapped through a region of a previous stenosis subsequently treated by balloon angioplasty. Finally, limitations of the technique and plans to validate and improve the analysis are discussed. >
Employer Information Report (EEO-1): Data Overview

The EEO-1 Report collects race/ethnic and gender data annually on nine major job categories (e.g., managers, operatives). In addition to the workforce data, information about each establishment's North American Industrial Classification System code, the establishment's county, its metropolitan area code, and other data are included. Download the slides at: http://papers.ssrn.com/paper=1028025 Download the audio file at: http://papers.ssrn.com/paper=1029980
Ureteral “kink” in pregnancy

Abstract The case history is presented of a patient who had a ureteral kink during the thirty-ninth week of pregnancy which resulted in marked hydronephrosis. Kinking may occur in pregnancy because of physiologic relaxation and elongation of the ureters. Ureteral kink should be considered in the differential diagnosis of acute progressive flank pain in pregnancy. Prompt diagnosis, drainage of the affected ureter, and induction of labor (if at term) as soon as is feasible will allow resolution of the kink early in the postpartum period.
Cytoskeletal chirality: swirling cells tell left from right.

Summary A new study reports that dynamic actin fibers in cells on circular islands self-organize into a swirling counter-clockwise pattern and describes a basic cytoskeletal mechanism for the establishment of left–right asymmetry that is based on myosin contraction and twisting of the formin–actin filament.
Velocity tracking control for a separately excited DC motor without velocity measurements

This paper applies advanced control techniques to the problem of sensorless velocity control for wound stator DC electric motors. Specifically, a nonlinear observer and a nonlinear integrator backstepping controller are developed for the separately excited wound stator motor configuration. The proposed controller, when used with the corresponding velocity observer, is shown to produce exponentially stable velocity tracking using only current measurements. The controller is based on a mathematical model of the electric motor which includes saturation in the stator magnetic circuit. Experimental results are provided to verify velocity tracking performance of the proposed control system.
Mass Interpersonal Persuasion: An Early View of a New Phenomenon

In 2007 a new form of persuasion emerged: mass interpersonal persuasion (MIP). The advances in online social networks now allow individuals to change attitudes and behaviors on a mass scale. MIP has six components: persuasive experience, automated structure, social distribution, rapid cycle, huge social graph, and measured impact. Before the launch of Facebook Platform, these six components had never come together in one system. As tools for creating MIP become available to ordinary people, individuals and small groups can better reach and persuade masses. This new phenomenon will change the future of persuasion.
Long-term (>8 years) evaluation of progression in patients with low-pressure glaucoma.

PurposeTo describe the long-term clinical course of patients with low-pressure glaucoma (LPG) and to assess the risk factors for disease progression.MethodsThe Wills Eye Glaucoma Research Center re...
Modeling of dynamic systems using fuzzy logic

An algorithm for modeling a dynamic system using fuzzy logic is developed in this paper. By properly partitioning the input-output spaces into fuzzy spaces, we use a machine learning algorithm to generate an initial fuzzy rule base. Finally, we adjust membership functions to minimize the output error between the model and the physical system. Simulation results are also given to demonstrate the proposed approach. >
Telephonic nurse case management for patients with diabetes and mental illnesses: a qualitative perspective:

Objectives: Gold Choice, a partially capitated Medicaid managed care programme for individuals with a behavioural health diagnosis, implemented a telephonic nurse case management (TNCM) programme t...
Cytokeratin 7 and Cytokeratin 20 Expression in Epithelial Neoplasms: A Survey of 435 Cases

Cytokeratin 7 (CK 7) and cytokeratin 20 (CK 20) are low molecular weight cytokeratins. Their anatomic distribution is generally restricted to epithelia and their neoplasms. We surveyed 435 epithelial neoplasms from various organ systems by immunohistochemistry using CK 7 and CK 20 monoclonal antibodies. Expression of CK 7 was seen in the majority of cases of carcinoma, with the exception of those carcinomas arising from the colon, prostate, kidney, and thymus; carcinoid tumors of the lung and gastrointestinal tract origin; and Merkel cell tumor of the skin. The majority of cases of squamous cell carcinoma of various origins were negative for CK 7, except cervical squamous cell carcinoma, in which 87% of cases were positive. Approximately two thirds of cases of malignant mesothelioma were CK 7-positive. CK 20 positivity was seen in virtually all cases of colorectal carcinomas and Merkel cell tumors. CK 20-positive staining was also observed in cases of pancreatic carcinomas (62%), gastric carcinoma (50%), cholangiocarcinomas (43%), and transitional cell carcinomas (29%). The expression of CK 20 was virtually absent in carcinomas from other organ systems and in malignant mesothelioma. CK 7- and CK 20-negative epithelial neoplasms included adrenal cortical carcinoma, germ cell tumor, prostate carcinoma, renal cell carcinoma, and hepatocellular carcinoma.
The sterilizing effect of ethylene oxide vapor on different micro-organisms

Athylenoxyd-Gas ist ein effektives Sterilisierungsmittel. Konzentration und Sterilisierungszeit sind voneinander abhangig. Je langer die Wirkungszeit, desto geringer die lethale Gaskonzentration. Bezuglich ihrer Widerstandsfahigkeit lassen sich die Mikroorganismen in drei Gruppen einteilen (Abb. 1). Am meisten resistent sind die sporenbildenden Bakterien. Sie vertragen eine zweifach so hohe Konzentration als die nicht sporenbildenden. Auffallend niedrig liegt die todliche Grenze fur Hefe und Schimmelpilze.
Ultrastructural studies of regenerating spines of the sea urchin Strongylocentrotus purpuratus I. Cell types without spherules

The fine structure of regenerating tips of spines of the sea urchin Strongylocentrotus purpuratus was investigated. Each conical tip consisted of an inner dermis, which deposits and contains the calcite skeleton, and an external layer of epidermis. Although cell types termed spherulecytes containing large, intracellular membrane bound spherules were also present in spine tissues, only epidermal and dermal cell types lacking such spherules are described in this paper. The epidermis was composed largely of free cells representing several functional types. Over the apical portion of the tip these cells occurred in groups, while proximally they were distributed within longitudinal grooves present along the periphery of the spine from the base to the tip. The terminal portions of apical processes extending from some of the epidermal cells formed a thin, contiguous outer layer consisting of small individual islands of cytoplasm bearing microvilli. Adjacent islands were connected around the periphery by a junctional complex extending roughly 200 A in depth in which the opposing plasma membranes were separated by a narrow gap about 145 A in width bridged by amorphous material. Other epidermal cells were closely associated with the basal lamina, which was 900 A in thickness and delineated the dermoepidermal junction; some of these cells appeared to synthesize the lamina, while others may be sensory nerve cells. The dermis at the spine tip also consisted of several functional types of free cells; the most interesting of these was the calcoblast, which deposits the skeleton. Calcoblasts extended a thin, cytoplasmic skeletal sheath which surrounded the tips and adjacent proximal portions of each of the longitudinally oriented microspines comprising the regenerating skeleton, and distally, formed a conical extracellular channel ahead of the mineralizing tip. The intimate relationship between calcoblasts and the growing mineral surface strongly suggests that these cells directly control both the kinetics of mineral deposition and morphogenesis of the skeleton. Other cell types in the dermis were precalcoblasts and phagocytes. Precalcoblasts may function as fibroblasts and are possible precursors of calcoblasts. Closely associated with the basal lamina at the dermoepidermal junction were extracellular unbanded anchoring fibrils 150 A to 200 A in diameter. Scattered proximally among dermal cells were other extracellular fibrils, presumably collagenous, about 300 A in diameter with a banding periodicity of 210 A.
Effects of Communication Apprehension on Perceptions of Leadership and Intragroup Attraction in Small Task-Oriented Groups.

Communication apprehension (CA) affects interpersonal perceptions in small task‐oriented groups. Those who scored higher in CA were rated both by themselves and by others to be lower in emerged leadership, and lower in both social and task attraction than those with lower CA. Lower apprehensives received higher overall intragroup evaluations than did higher apprehensives. Trend analyses identified more stable perceptions over time for lower CAs and, increasingly positive perceptions of higher CAs.
A new technique for placement of nasoenteral feeding tubes using external magnetic guidance.

Objective To evaluate a new technique in which a hand-held external magnet is used to maneuver nasoenteral feeding tubes through the pylorus and into the duodenum. Design Prospective case series. Setting Critical care units and medical and surgical wards of a university-affiliated community hospital. Patients Thirty-five patients were entered into the study after the attending physician requested assistance in tube placement. Interventions A standard 12-Fr, 114-cm flexible nasoenteral feeding tube was modified by inserting a small magnet into the distal tip. The tube was inserted per nares into the stomach, using traditional technique. Next, an external magnet was placed over the right upper abdominal quadrant, at the midclavicular line to attract the tube tip along the lesser curvature of the stomach, through the pyloric sphincter, and into the duodenum. Portable abdominal radiography performed immediately after the procedure confirmed the anatomic location of the tube tip. Measurements and main results Forty-two intubations were performed in 35 patients (in seven patients, the tube had to be reinserted due to inadvertent removal or surgery). In 37 (88%) of 42 intubations, the tube was passed through the pyloric sphincter and into the duodenum on the first attempt. The mean procedure time was 15 +/- 9 mins (range 10 to 45). There were no complications related to the procedure during the study period. Conclusions This report describes a novel technique of enteral feeding tube placement, using external magnetic guidance. Transpyloric placement was achieved in 88% of cases. This reliable and convenient bedside method for rapid placement of the tube into the duodenum allows prompt and safe initiation of enteral nutrition.
Corticosteroid sulfate excretion and estrogen receptors in breast cancer.

Abstract The urinary excretion of corticosteroid sulfates and free cortisol were determined in 150 breast cancer patients. Four of 60 cases of early breast cancer (7%) and 26 of 90 patients with advanced breast cancer (29%) showed an elevated urinary corticosteroid sulfate excretion. Urinary free cortisol was usually normal Estrogen receptor assays were performed on tumor samples from 67 breast cancer patients; 24 were from primary lesions obtained at mastectomy, 3 from inoperable primaries in patients with systemic metastases, and 40 from metastases. Sixteen of the primary breast cancers (67%), 26 of the metastases (65%) and 1 of the 3 inoperable primaries contained estrogen receptors. With 2 exceptions, patients with an increased urinary corticosteroid sulfate excretion also had estrogen receptor-containing tumors.
The Impact of Information Technology Investment on Enterprise Performance: A Case Study

Abstract Investment in information technology is steadily increasing, but many organizations find it difficult to formally assess the value of IT investments because the latter are often incorporated into broad management initiatives. the authors believe that the results of the research study reported on here can help firms to develop a better understanding of the dynamic relationship between IT investment and performance at both the firm and industry levels of analysis. This study clearly demonstrates the importance of adopting an organizational change perspective when assessing the impact of IT investment on firm performance.
Factors Influencing the Self-Determination of Transition-Age Youth with High-Incidence Disabilities.

Recognizing the contributions of self-determination to improved outcomes for transition-age youth with disabilities, researchers are increasingly directing their efforts toward identifying factors associated with (a) these students' acquisition of skills that enhance self-determination and (b) educators' efforts to promote opportunities to be self-determined. This article examines the contributions of social skills and problem behaviors to the self-determination of 90 high school students with emotional disturbances and learning disabilities. Social skills were found to be a significant predictor of students' capacity for self-determination, but were not associated with self-determination opportunities at school. Ratings of students' problem behaviors added no additional predictive value. The association between these skill domains has important implications for the design of meaningful transition experiences for these youth.
Computer simulation of high-resolution electron micrographs using dynamical electron scattering

A system of computer programs has been implemented that calculates both high-resolution images and diffraction patterns of generalized objects for the conventional transmission electron microscope. Multi-slice dynamical electron scattering of 256 × 256 = 65 536 beams is incorporated into these programs, which allows Bragg reflections and the diffuse scattering contributions between these reflections to be included in the computations. Images can therefore be obtained from imperfect crystalline structures and for disordered objects such as amorphous materials. Both bright- and dark-field images are obtained with this system in either the axial or tilted-beam imaging modes. Examples of surface effects in Au crystals, the [111] split Crowdion interstitial in tungsten, and an amorphous Fe film model are considered in the context of dynamical electron scattering.
Robust Graph Topologies for Networked Systems

Abstract Robustness of networked systems against noise corruption and structural changes in an underlying network topology is a critical issue for a reliable performance. In this paper, we investigate this issue of robustness in networked systems both from structural and functional viewpoints. Structural robustness deals with the effect of changes in a graph structure due to link or edge failures, while functional robustness addresses how well a system behaves in the presence of noise. We discuss that both of these aspects are inter-related, and can be measured through a common graph invariant. A graph process is introduced where edges are added to an existing graph in a step-wise manner to maximize robustness. Moreover, a relationship between the symmetry of an underlying network structure and robustness is also discussed.
Alpha phase precipitation from phase-separated beta phase in a model Ti–Mo–Al alloy studied by direct coupling of transmission electron microscopy and atom probe tomography

Nucleation and growth of alpha precipitates during low-temperature annealing of Ti–10 at.% Mo–10 at.% Al alloy was investigated using direct coupling of transmission electron microscopy and atom probe tomography. The initial stages of annealing at 400 °C showed structurally well-defined alpha precipitates that were depleted in Mo as well as Al, and were confined within the Ti-rich beta phase separated pockets. The Al-enriched alpha phase was only observed after further annealing at 600 °C.
Love on the margins: The effects of social stigma and relationship length on romantic relationship quality

National data on romantic relationships reveal a prominent gap between members of devalued and dominant groups in the United States, with devalued group members experiencing less positive relationship outcomes. However, little research examines how social stigma affects relationship quality for members of devalued groups and moderating factors have generally not been explored in the literature. In the current studies, we experimentally examined the effects of social stigma on relationship quality among women (Study 1) and African Americans (Study 2) as well as whether these effects differed based upon relationship length (Studies 1 and 2). Results showed that individuals involved in shorter relationships reported lesser relationship quality after social stigma was made salient, while those involved in longer relationships reported somewhat greater relationship quality after social stigma was made salient. Implications for future research on social stigma and relationship quality as well as moderating fact...