cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Canonical Decomposition Fuzzy Comparative Methodology for Assessing Architectures

The challenge for system architects is to perform a realistic assessment of an inherently ambiguous system concept. Many existing assessment methods are available, but these are often subjective and unrepeatable. Repeatability, objectivity, and increased fidelity are desired. An architecture assessment methodology capable of achieving these objectives is possible by drawing on the strengths of existing approaches while addressing their collective weaknesses. The proposed methodology is the Canonical Decomposition Fuzzy Comparative approach. The theoretical foundations of this methodology are developed herein and tested through the assessment of three physical architectures for a peer-to-peer wireless network. An extensible modeling framework is established to decompose high-level system attributes into technical performance measures suitable for analysis via computational modeling. Canonical design primitives are used to assess antenna performance in the form of a comparative analysis between the baseline free space gain patterns and the installed gain patterns. Finally, a fuzzy inference system is used to interpret the comparative feature set and offer a numerical assessment. The results of this experiment support the assertion that the proposed methodology is well suited for exposing integration sensitivity and assessing coupled performance in physical architecture concepts.
SIMD re-convergence at thread frontiers

Hardware and compiler techniques for mapping data-parallel programs with divergent control flow to SIMD architectures have recently enabled the emergence of new GPGPU programming models such as CUDA, OpenCL, and DirectX Compute. The impact of branch divergence can be quite different depending upon whether the program's control flow is structured or unstructured. In this paper, we show that unstructured control flow occurs frequently in applications and can lead to significant code expansion when executed using existing approaches for handling branch divergence. This paper proposes a new technique for automatically mapping arbitrary control flow onto SIMD processors that relies on a concept of a Thread Frontier, which is a bounded region of the program containing all threads that have branched away from the current warp. This technique is evaluated on a GPU emulator configured to model i) a commodity GPU (Intel Sandybridge), and ii) custom hardware support not realized in current GPU architectures. It is shown that this new technique performs identically to the best existing method for structured control flow, and re-converges at the earliest possible point when executing unstructured control flow. This leads to i) between 1.5 – 633.2% reductions in dynamic instruction counts for several real applications, ii) simplification of the compilation process, and iii) ability to efficiently add high level unstructured programming constructs (e.g., exceptions) to existing data-parallel languages.
An object-oriented simulation language for master production scheduling in a flexible manufacturing environment

This paper introduces a new object-oriented simulation tool that has been developed to support integrated materials/capacity requirements planning and master production scheduling. Among its unique capabilities are its ability to support the implementation of global, system-wide controllers and to model several potential approaches for achieving flexible manufacturing. In the latter respect, this simulation tool supports multiple bills-of-material and alternative process plans for each manufactured item. The application of the new simulation tool to a real-world example is discussed as well as future plans to expand the capabilities for the tool.
Historical review: Autointoxication and focal infection theories of dementia praecox

SummaryThe popularity of theories of autointoxication and focal infection in general medicine and dentistry in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries led Emil Kraepelin and others to speculate that dementia praecox was caused by a poisoning of the brain from toxins produced in other parts of the body, notably the sex glands, the intestines and the mouth. Emil Kraepelin's commitment to the autointoxication theory is ignored in the literature on the history of psychiatry due to the focus of historians and clinicians on the major contributions of Kraepelin's methods of clinical psychopathology. Besides heredity, autointoxication and focal infection were the other most dominant theories of the organic aetiology of dementia praecox in the first three decades of its existence as a nosological entity in psychiatry. Rational treatments for dementia praecox that followed logically from these aetiological theories were colonic irrigations and major abdominal surgeries such as appendicostomies, colectomie...
Nonmetallic Prefabricated Dowels: A Review of Compositions, Properties, Laboratory, and Clinical Test Results

Purpose:Prefabricateddowelshavebecomepopular,andawidevarietyofsystemsare available.Recently,inresponsetoaneedfortooth-coloreddowels,severalnonmetallic dowels such as carbon-fiber epoxy resin, zirconia, glass fiber-reinforced epoxy resin, and ultra-high polyethelene fiber-reinforced dowels are available. With a plethora of differentmaterialsandsystemscurrentlyavailableforuse,anoverviewofthescientific literature on nonmetallic dowels is indicated. This article reviews the current literature dealing with the compositions, properties, and laboratory and clinical test results of nonmetallic prefabricated dowels. Methods: A comprehensive review of the literature was completed seeking evidence for the treatment of teeth with nonmetallic prefabricated dowels. A search of English language peer-reviewed literature was undertaken using MEDLINE and PubMed with a focus on clinical research articles published between 1996 and 2007. A hand search of relevant dental journals was also completed. Results:Theliteraturedemonstratesthatinvitroinvestigationsdemonstratedfavorable physicalandmechanicalproperties of these dowels;however, clinically, there has been a wide range of reported failure percentages. Conclusion: Since there is considerable variation in reported failure percentages, longer-term studies are needed that present data regarding all types of complications that have been identified in the literature.
A comparison of economic evaluation models as applied to geothermal energy technology

Several cost estimation and financial cash flow models have been applied to a series of geothermal case studies. In order to draw conclusions about relative performance and applicability of these models to geothermal projects, the consistency of results was assessed. The model outputs of principal interest in this study were net present value, internal rate of return, or levelized breakeven price. The models used were VENVAL, a venture analysis model; the Geothermal Probabilistic Cost Model (GPC Model); the Alternative Power Systems Economic Analysis Model (APSEAM); the Geothermal Loan Guarantee Cash Flow Model (GCFM); and the GEOCOST and GEOCITY geothermal models. The case studies to which the models were applied include a geothermal reservoir at Heber, CA; a geothermal eletric power plant to be located at the Heber site; an alcohol fuels production facility to be built at Raft River, ID; and a direct-use, district heating system in Susanville, CA.
Social skills instruction for exceptional children

(1982). Social skills instruction for exceptional children. Theory Into Practice: Vol. 21, Exceptional Children in the Schools, pp. 129-133.
Inflammation, Inflammatory Mediators, and Mediator Antagonists in Asthma

Asthma is an inflammatory disease that involves mast cells, antigen-presenting cells, eosinophils, neutrophils, and TH2-lymphocytes. These cells produce a broad array of mediators and cytokines that lead to the bronchoconstriction, mucosal edema, mucus secretion, and bronchial hyperresponsiveness that characterize asthma. Current guidelines for therapy recommend that all patients whose asthma is more severe than mild intermittent receive chronic treatment with drugs that interrupt this inflammatory cascade. Corticosteroids have been the gold standard for treatment, but a greater understanding of the specific cells and mediators involved in the pathogenesis of asthma has led to more focused, specific therapy. Pharmacologic agents that interrupt the synthesis of action of leukotrienes, and monoclonal antibodies directed against intracellular adhesion molecules or immunoglobulin E are examples of the new generation of specific targeted therapy for use in asthma.
Comprehensive methodology for integrated circuit in-line defect classification

The earliest attempts by human inspectors to classify defects found during in-line inspection of integrated circuits were fraught with difficulties in clarifying defect definitions and in training a diverse and changing inspector staff. These deficiencies were exacerbated by the challenges of expanding classification categories as new defects were discovered. Our diversified product mix had accumulated a knowledge base of approximately seventy defect types, posing a formidable learning challenge for even the most knowledgeable inspector. Not surprisingly, the average accuracy of the group in classifying defects was approximately 55 percent, and even the best inspector scored around 70 percent. To address these issues, we developed a comprehensive methodology for classifying defects. This methodology includes both word descriptions of the physical appearance of defects and a hierarchical questionnaire leading to precise defect classification. After adopting this methodology and implementing strong training programs, our team significantly improved its defect review process, ultimately reaching approximately 80 percent classification accuracy. With this degree of accuracy, we were able to implement defect specific statistical process control charts, together with formalized 'decision tree' procedures for correcting defect excursions. These formalisms then became an effective part of the fab's yield improvement program. Today, as technology advances into the realm of automatic defect classification (ADC), the lessons learned from human defect inspection form a strong foundation by establishing a comprehensive set of defect categories uniquely related to causality and supporting defect identification standards that can be used by the entire community of ADC training engineers.© (2000) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Evaluation of Corn Gluten Feed and Cottonseed Meal as Partial Replacements for Soybean Meal and Corn in Diets for Pond-raised Hybrid Catfish, Ictalurus punctatus×I. furcatus

This study examined the use of corn gluten feed (CGF) and cottonseed meal (CSM) to partially replace soybean meal and corn in diets for pond-raised hybrid catfish, Ictalurus punctatus×I. furcatus. Five 28% protein diets containing various combinations of CGF and CSM were evaluated. Fingerling hybrid catfish (mean initial weight: 45 g/fish) were stocked into 25, 0.04-ha ponds at a rate of 14,826 fish/ha. Fish were fed once daily to apparent satiation for a 179-d growing season. CGF at 30% of the diet (10% CSM) and a combination of CGF and CSM up to 25% each did not affect physical quality (percentages floatability and feed dust) of the diet. No significant differences were observed in total amount of diet fed, net yield, diet consumption, weight gain, feed conversion ratio (FCR), survival, and fillet proximate nutrient composition among fish fed various diets. Results show that hybrid catfish can utilize CGF at levels up to 30% of the diet (10% CSM), and a combination of CGF and CSM up to 25% each without significantly affecting growth, diet consumption, FCR, and fillet proximate nutrient composition. However, a combination of CGF and CSM at 20% each and above reduced carcass yield.
3-D high-resolution mapping of the heterogeneity in mitochondrial redox state of human breast tumor xenografts.

Intratumor heterogeneity is of great research interest for understanding cancer pathology and developing diagnostic and therapeutic methods. The low-temperature 3D NADH/Fp (oxidized flavoproteins including FAD) fluorescence imaging or the redox scanning provides an effective tool for imaging intratumor heterogeneity in mitochondrial redox state at a high spatial resolution (down to 50 × 50 × 20 μm3). Previously, we have shown mitochondrial redox state and its heterogeneity in tumor tissue provide sensitive and potentially diagnosis-useful characteristics for differentiating among five human melanoma and two breast cancer mouse xenografts of different metastatic potential. Here, we report the preliminary results of imaging the in vivo mitochondrial redox state of the entire tumor for three human breast cancer lines having ascending order of aggressiveness, i.e., MCF-7 < MDA-MB-468 < MDA-MB-231 xenografted in athymic nude mice. The tumor-bearing mice were anesthetized and snap-frozen in liquid N2 so that the in vivo mitochondrial redox state was maintained for ex vivo redox scanning. The entire excised tumors were scanned section by section at different depths with 400 μm spacing, total of 11–14 sections per tumor. We obtained the 3D distribution of nominal concentrations of oxidized flavoproteins (Fp) and NADH in tissue and calculated the Fp redox ratio Fp/(Fp + NADH) representing the mitochondrial redox state. The results revealed that both aggressive tumors (MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468) displayed heterogeneity in the distributions of NADH, Fp and Fp redox ratio, with a localized area exhibiting significantly higher Fp redox ratio than other regions; the indolent MCF-7 tumor displayed a relatively uniform distribution in both Fp and NADH, thus Fp redox ratio. The results suggest possible novel imaging biomarkers on the basis of NADH, Fp and Fp redox ratio images to differentiate among these tumors. Potentially, these biomarkers may be useful for cancer diagnosis and therapy.
Stateflow autocoder

In a large-scale control system, the health monitoring subsystem could produce hundreds to thousands of system inputs. Using Matlab's Stateflow to implement supervisory logic that could interpret sensor or actuator failures allows for a hybrid control system to be developed and simulated. The manual creation of a Stateflow chart for use in a Simulink simulation of a large-scale guidance and control system is a tedious and time-consuming process. The Stateflow Autocoder is a Matlab based software tool for the automatic generation of a Stateflow chart from information contained in a database. Managing the parameters and elements of a simulation via a database presents an opportunity to efficiently create or modify a simulation model by only changing information that is contained within the database. This paper describes the auto-generation of a Stateflow chart that is required to manage a simulation from a database.
REAL ESTATE CYCLES, ASSET REDISTRIBUTION, AND THE DYNAMICS OF A CRISIS

In this paper, I explore the dynamics of real estate market fluctuations and business cycle co-movements in a neoclassical setting. Applying a dynamic stochastic general equilibrium model of collateral constraints with asset reallocation to Japan, I find that public policy shocks account well for the business cycle dynamics. In particular, taxes on land holdings of households mimic the impact of a housing preference shock, and if volatile enough, can trigger large asset price fluctuations. However, in the absence of volatility, the impact on prices is intrinsically linked to the persistence of shocks. Dependence on fixed assets such as real estate to secure collateral-based financing significantly amplifies the effect of initial shocks on the real macro aggregates. The financial accelerator works through the “redistribution channel,” shifting a large fraction of the collateral between constrained and unconstrained agents in response to an external stimuli.
Dihydrogen trioxide (HOOOH) photoelimination from a platinum(IV) hydroperoxo-hydroxo complex.

Photolysis (380 nm) of trans-Pt(PEt3)2(Cl)(OH)(OOH)(4-trifluoromethylphenyl) (1) at −78 °C in acetone-d6 or toluene-d8 yields HOOOH (16–20%) and trans-Pt(PEt3)2(Cl)(4-trifluoromethylphenyl) (2). Also observed in acetone-d6 are H2O2, (CD3)2C(OH)(OOH), and (CD3)2C(OOH)2. Thermal decomposition or room-temperature photolysis of 1 gives O2, water, and 2. Computational modeling (DFT) suggests two intramolecular hydrogen-bonding-dependent triplet pathways for the photolysis and two possible pathways for the thermolysis, one involving proton transfer from the OOH to the OH ligand and the other homolysis of the Pt–OOH bond, abstraction of the OH ligand, and decomposition of the resulting H2O3. Trapping studies suggest the latter pathway.
Book Review: Adult Literacy and American Identity: The Moonlight Schools and Americanization Programs

The focus of the historical work Adult Literacy and American Identity: The Moonlight Schools and Americanization Programs by Samantha NeCamp is to highlight the manufactured literacy crisis in the ...
The transcriptional tissue specificity of the human pro alpha 1 (I) collagen gene is determined by a negative cis-regulatory element in the promoter.

Abstract The transcriptional activity of plasmid pCOL-KT, in which human pro alpha 1 (I) collagen gene upstream sequences up to -804 and most of the first intron (+474 to +1440) drive expression of the chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT) gene [Thompson, Simkevich, Holness, Kang & Raghow (1991) J. Biol. Chem. 266, 2549-2556], was tested in a number of mesenchymal and non-mesenchymal cells. We observed that pCOL-KT was readily expressed in fibroblasts of human (IMR-90 and HFL-1), murine (NIH 3T3) and avian (SL-29) origin and in a human rhabdomyosarcoma cell line (A204), but failed to be expressed in human erythroleukaemia (K562) and rat pheochromocytoma (PC12) cells, indicating that the regulatory elements required for appropriate tissue-specific expression of the human pro alpha 1 (I) collagen gene were present in pCOL-KT. To delineate the nature of cis-acting sequences which determine the tissue specificity of pro alpha 1 (I) collagen gene expression, functional consequences of deletions in the promoter and first intron of pCOL-KT were tested in various cell types by transient expression assays. Cis elements in the promoter-proximal and intronic sequences displayed either a positive or a negative influence depending on the cell type. Thus deletion of fragments using EcoRV (nt -625 to -442 deleted), XbaI (-804 to -331) or SstII (+670 to +1440) resulted in 2-10-fold decreased expression in A204 and HFL-1 cells. The negative influences of deletions in the promoter-proximal sequences was apparently considerably relieved by deleting sequences in the first intron, and the constructs containing the EcoRV/SstII or XbaI/SstII double deletions were expressed to a much greater extent than either of the single deletion constructs. In contrast, the XbaI* deletion (nt -804 to -609), either alone or in combination with the intronic deletion, resulted in very high expression in all cells regardless of their collagen phenotype; the XbaI*/(-SstII) construct, which contained the intronic SstII fragment (+670 to +1440) in the reverse orientation, was not expressed in either mesenchymal or nonmesenchymal cells. Based on these results, we conclude that orientation-dependent interactions between negatively acting 5'-upstream sequences and the first intron determine the mesenchymal cell specificity of human pro alpha 1 (I) collagen gene transcription.
The role of negative-regulatory factors of toll-like receptors signal pathways in the immunological pathogenesis of Kawasaki disease

Objective To investigate the role of negative-regulatory factors of toll-like receptors (TLRs)signal pathways in immunological pathogenesis of Kawasaki disease(KD).Methods Thirty-two chil- dren with Kawasaki disease and 16 age-matched healthy children were studied.Reverse-transcription PCR (RT-PCR)and real-time PCR were used to evaluate the mRNA expression levels of toll-like receptor 4(TLR4), MD-2,MyD88,IRAK-4,TRAF6,T1/ST2,IRAK-M,Triad 3A,and proinflammatory factors such as IL-1β, IL-6,IL-8 and TNF-α,in peripheral blood monocytes/macrophages(MC).The expression of TLR4 protein in MC was analyzed by flow cytometry.Results①Compared with the control group,the mRNA levels of TLR4, MD-2,MyD88,IRAK-4 and TRAF6 in KD group were up-regulated significantly(P＜0.01),and the expression level of TLR4 protein was also found to be up-regulated in KD group during acute phase.It was detected that expression levels of TLR4 protein in KD with coronary artery lesion(KD-CAL~+)was significantly higher than that of KD without coronary artery lesion(KD-CAL-)[flow cytometry:(6.5±1.7)% vs(11.9_+2.4)%,P＜0.01].②The expression level of negative-regulatory factors such as IRAK-M and Triad3A were significantly up-regulat- ed in acute phase of Kawasaki disease,while the mRNA levels of IRAK-M and Triad3A in KD-CAL~+ group was found to be significantly lower than those of KD-CAL~- group(P＜0.01).No difference of T1/ST2 mRNA expres sion level was detected among all groups(P＞0.05).③The expressions of proinflammatory eytokines such as IL-1β, IL-6,IL-8 and TNF-αin monoeytes/macrophages during acute phase of Kawasaki disease were higher than those of the control group(P＜0.01),and expression of proinflammatory cytokines in KD-CAL~+ group was significantly higher than that of KD-CAL~- group.Conclusion Relative insufficient expression of negative-regulatory factors, such as IRAK-M and Triad3A,maybe correlate with immunological pathogenesis of Kawasaki disease.
SOA in WDM Communication Links

Photonic Integrated Circuits (PICs) have had a significant impact on WDM systems and have been shown to be scalable, reliable and economic. Integration of SOAs to the PIC platform extend the benefits of PICs.
Linda’s Voice: Life Events Don’t Define You—You Do!

I’ve spent a lot of time contemplating a little girl’s journey—I’ve thought about her from every aspect, really. I’ve thanked her, apologized to her, and for many years now, I have taken care of her. Reflecting on my journey, in order to share it with you, has been sobering. I’ve felt fear, shame, excitement, and joy. If I’m going to talk about how events in your life do not define you; then I have to be honest with you about mine—these have been my events and I am going to be open with you about them. My journey isn’t every woman’s; my hope, however, is that something…even one thing… will resonate with you as you read. No matter how thorough your excavation, your life events and experiences remain with you. But I’d like you to think about this: you aren’t responsible for all of them. I now understand that sometimes I was just an unwitting traveler on the path of another’s journey.
Discovery and Optimization of Two Eis Inhibitor Families as Kanamycin Adjuvants against Drug-Resistant M. tuberculosis.

Drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) is a global threat and innovative approaches such as using adjuvants of anti-TB therapeutics are required to combat it. High-throughput screening yielded two lead scaffolds of inhibitors of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) acetyltransferase Eis, whose upregulation causes resistance to the anti-TB drug kanamycin (KAN). Chemical optimization on these scaffolds resulted in potent Eis inhibitors. One compound restored the activity of KAN in a KAN-resistant Mtb strain. Model structures of Eis-inhibitor complexes explain the structure–activity relationship.
TESLA: Using microfluidics to thermally stabilize 3D stacked STT-RAM caches

In this work, we develop a 3D architecture that utilizes STT-RAM for the last level cache (LLC). 3D integration enables large LLCs to be stacked onto a die. However, 3D architectures suffer from higher operating temperatures due to increased power densities. The elevated temperatures can adversely impact the STT-RAM performance and reliability. The objective of this paper is to address the limits of integrating STT-RAM in 3D chip stacks from a thermal perspective and propose a novel stacking structure that minimizes heat-induced problems. Specifically, we analyze the system-level impact of increased temperatures and propose a novel technique to dynamically adjust the flow rate of the liquid interlayer cooling at run time to reduce the STT-RAM temperature and alleviate temperature-induced problems that cause the performance degradation and prevent overcooling the STT-RAM die and minimize the pump energy consumption. Evaluation results reveal that our approach achieves up to 19.1% performance improvement and 14.6% power reduction over an architecture that does not include an insulating layer.
Anthrax-toxin-receptor-directed angiogenesis inhibitors

AACR Annual Meeting-- Apr 12-16, 2008; San Diego, CA 1106 Anthrax toxin binds with high affinity to the cellular receptors known as capillary morphogenesis gene protein 2 (CMG2) and tumor endothelial marker 8 (TEM8). We have recently used non-toxic anthrax toxin receptor subunits to demonstrate that interfering with the normal function of anthrax toxin receptors inhibits angiogenesis. Thus, anthrax toxin receptors are useful targets for anti-angiogenic therapy. We have now developed, optimized, and performed pilot screening using homogeneous fluorescence resonance energy transfer assays to identify small molecules that inhibit the high affinity protein-protein interactions between PA and the anthrax toxin receptors, CMG2 or TEM8. Briefly, a PA cysteine mutant (PA E733C) was labeled with a donor fluorophore (Alexa Fluor 488) while soluble receptor binding domain truncation mutants were labeled with an acceptor fluorophore (Alexa Fluor 546). When mixed at equimolar ratios, significant energy transfer is observed. These assays have been optimized for reproducibility, robustness, stability, and sensitivity. Typical Z' values for these assays under screening conditions were >0.90. We have piloted this assay using a library of ~3000 bioactive compounds at Institute of Chemistry and Cell Biology Longwood (ICCB), and have begun more thorough screening of ICCB libraries. Compounds identified in these screens may have utility as anti-angiogenic agents. In addition, because the binding of anthrax protective antigen (PA) is required for anthrax pathogenicity, identification of small molecule inhibitors of PA-receptor binding may lead to anti-anthrax therapeutics for biodefense.
The atomistic mechanism for Sb segregation and As displacement of Sb in InSb(001) surfaces

Abstract Interfacial broadening occurs in mixed-anion alloy heterostructures such as InAs/InAsSb due to both Sb-segregation and As-for-Sb exchange. In order to determine the atomistic mechanisms for these processes, we conduct ab initio calculations coupled with a cluster expansion formalism to determine the surface reconstructions of the pure and As-exposed InSb(001) surfaces. This approach provides a predicted phase diagram for pure InSb that is in better agreement with experiments. Namely, the α2(2 × 4) and α3c(4 × 4) structures are ultimately stable at 0K, but the α(4 × 3) and α2c(2 × 6) are within 1 meV/A 2 . Exposure of the InSb(001) surface to As results in the As atoms infiltrating into the crystal and displacing subsurface Sb, thus providing the atomistic mechanisms for experimental observations of the As-for-Sb exchange reaction and Sb segregation. Experiments show that the widely reported A-(1 × 3) reconstruction is actually comprised of multiple reconstructions, which is consistent with the prediction of several nearly stable possible reconstructions.
Polarization Rotation Dynamics in Harmonically Mode-Locked Vector Soliton Fiber Lasers

Polarization rotation dynamics for group velocity locked vector solitons in higher order harmonically mode-locked soliton fiber lasers are studied for the first time, in a thulium/holmium fiber laser. In a linear ultrafast fiber laser with net anomalous dispersion, harmonically mode-locked states are generated continuously by increasing the pump power for specific net cavity birefringence settings. The polarization evolution frequency remains the same for all harmonically mode-locked pulse trains, converging toward a singular solution close to the maximum pulse intensity modulation depth for each respective harmonically mode-locked state. With a polarization resolved output, an intensity modulation of the ultrafast pulse train with varying pulse binning is recorded, corresponding to the polarization rotation of the vector solitons. In addition, a polarization rotation vector soliton state with two different sets of RF sidebands symmetric to the repetition rate is observed, which leads to a more complex modulated pulse train. The experimental results of the polarization evolution also matche well with the presented theoretical modeling. Similar relative intensity noise <0.4% for all harmonically mode-locked states is measured. This method to modulate the intensity of an ultrafast pulse train and tune its pulse spacing by integer fractions of the initial round trip time shows a strong potential for applications in optical communications, polarization de multiplexing schemes, and sensing.
Proof of Principle for Local Delivery of a c-Met Inhibitor.

The reported proof of principle study demonstrated the feasibility of local delivery of a c-Met inhibitor (VXc-140) in a subcutaneous xenograft tumor model. VXc-140 was formulated in a wafer delivery system for direct implantation into the tumor. Systemic and local tumor exposure of VXc-140 was analyzed. High tumor exposures coupled with fast release of compound were associated with significant tumor regression and reduction in tumor levels of phosphorylated c-Met. High VXc-140 tumor-to-plasma ratios (∼42 at the tumor periphery) were achieved. The tumor response achieved (7/11 partial response) with VXc-140 with the local delivery in the wafer (4 mg over 15 days) was comparable to the regression observed (11/15 partial response) for VXc-140 in the oral delivery (∼8 mg total administered once a day for 2 weeks). Notably, the plasma levels in animals implanted with VXc-140 wafers ranged from 2 to 4 μM, which, although higher than trough levels achieved with oral administration, were well below oral Cmax levels (∼42 μM) suggesting that toxicities associated with Cmax exposure may be reduced or eliminated by local delivery. The high tumor to plasma exposure of VXc-140 and the efficacy observed with local wafer delivery warrants further exploration into the utility of local delivery.
Abstract P361: Inflammatory Burden May Partially Mediate the Relationship Between Everyday Discrimination and Carotid Plaque Height in Midlife Women

Introduction: Self-reported experiences of discrimination have been associated with greater risk of incident cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality across racial/ethnic groups. However, ques...
Myotis grisescens (Gray myotis)

The Y chromosome is indistinguishable from the two pairs of the smallest telocentric autosomes, but identification of the X chromosome is unequivocal.
Legislative Branch Pressures on Monetary Policy: 1914–1991

The history of Congressional involvement with monetary policy in this century has two distinct aspects. The first is Congress’ concern with the structure of the central bank, particularly whether it would be controlled by political appointees or by representatives of the financial sector, specifically the banking industry. The second aspect is the legislative branch’s concern with the management of monetary policy. While there is overlap between the two concerns,1 Congressional focus on each is concentrated in two distinct time periods. Involvement with private sector versus political control occupied the Congressional consciousness for the first third of the century interrupted by Congressional dabblings in monetary policy management in 1921, 1926, 1928 and 1933. The control issue was resolved in favor of political appointees by the Banking Act of 1935. For the second half of the century, Congressional concern shifted to the management of monetary policy. This concern came into prominence with the emancipation of Federal Reserve monetary policy from Treasury control in the Accord of 1951, an event in which Congress played a pivotal role.
Estimation of 1-Year Changes in Medicaid Expenditures Associated With Reducing Cigarette Smoking Prevalence by 1%

Importance Reducing smoking is associated with a reduction in health care costs, including in the short run. Medicaid recipients smoke at higher rates than the general population, which suggests that investments to reduce smoking in this population would reduce short-run Medicaid costs. Objective To estimate the short-run (1-year) change in health care expenditure associated with a 1% decrease in absolute smoking prevalence in all US states. Design, Setting, and Participants Economic evaluation based on state Medicaid expenditures and the elasticity between changes in smoking prevalence and health care costs. Data sources were the 2017 Behavioral Risk Factors Surveillance System, 2017 National Health Interview Survey, and Kaiser Family Foundation Total Medicaid Spending for fiscal year 2017. Analysis was conducted in 2018. Participants were all people receiving Medicaid in all US states and the District of Columbia. Exposures Cigarette smoking. Main Outcomes and Measures Short-run (1-year) change in health care costs. Results Reducing absolute smoking prevalence by 1% in each state was associated with substantial Medicaid savings the following year, totaling $2.5 billion (in 2017 dollars). Each state saved a median (interquartile range) of $26 million ($10 million to $52 million). Conclusions and Relevance Effective efforts to reducing smoking could be a cost-effective way to reduce Medicaid costs in the short run.
Relational Views of Humanness: The Reciprocity of Ontos and Telos:

This article explores humanity’s ontology of relationality and telos of the common good as not only inseparable but mutually constitutive, drawing on the work of Thomas Aquinas and looking into the...
Care management and contemporary challenges in spina bifida: a practice preference survey of the American Society of Pediatric Neurosurgeons.

Objective Neurosurgical management preferences related to myelomeningocele (MMC) care demonstrate significant variability. The authors sought to evaluate variability in practice patterns across a group of senior pediatric neurosurgeons. The purpose of this study was to identify the extent of variability and of consensus with regard to neurosurgical management of MMC and associated hydrocephalus, Chiari II malformation, and tethered spinal cord. Methods A 43-question survey was distributed electronically to the members of the American Society of Pediatric Neurosurgeons (ASPN). The survey covered domains such as clinic case volume, newborn management, hydrocephalus management, transition to adulthood, clinical indications for shunt revision, Chiari II malformation decompression (C2MD), and tethered cord release (TCR). Ninety responses were received from 200 active ASPN members, for an overall response rate of 45%. Results The majority (58%) of respondents closed 5-15 new cases of open MMC per year. Nearly all (98%) respondents perform back closure within 48 hours of birth, with the majority imbricating the placode and striving for a 3- to 4-layer closure. The most consistent indications for surgical intervention in early hydrocephalus were CSF leak from the back (92%), progressive ventricular enlargement (89%), and brainstem symptoms, including apnea/bradycardia (81%), stridor (81%), and dysphagia (81%). Eighty percent of respondents indicated that spina bifida care is delivered through multidisciplinary clinics, with neurosurgery, orthopedic surgery, urology, physical therapy, and social work as the most common disciplines included. One-third of clinics see both pediatric and adult patients, one-third offer a formal transition program to adult care, and one-third have no transition program. The vast majority of respondents offer prenatal counseling (95%), referral for in utero closure (66%), and endoscopic third ventriculostomy/choroid plexus cauterization (72%). Respondents were more willing to perform shunt revision for symptoms alone than for image changes alone. An asymptomatic broken shunt without ventricular enlargement produced responses evenly divided between observation, intervention, and further investigation. Operative shunt exploration was always performed before C2MD by 56% of respondents and performed sometimes by 40% of respondents. Symptoms of brainstem dysfunction were the strongest clinical triggers reported for C2MD, while declines in urinary continence, leg strength or sensation, or ambulation were the most consistent thresholds for TCR. Conclusions Significant disparities exist surrounding key areas of decision making regarding treatment for patients with MMC, though there are central areas of agreement among ASPN members. Additionally, there is significant variation in the clinical management of chronic hydrocephalus, C2MD, and TCR, underscoring the need for further research into these specific areas.
Mental Atony in Children

The paper considers the phenomenon of «mental atony» in children with developmental delay, intellectual disability and autism. The condition of mental atony is a congenital or early acquired even decrease in mental tone, manifested by the reduced ability to concentrate attention, a decline of the targeted activity, difficulties in contacting, weakening of unconditioned reflexes, lack of instinctive manifestations, «mobilization» of mental functions by persistent verbal and tactile stimulation. The article provides the history of the «mental atony» theory, as well as clinical features, epidemiology, etiology, pathogenesis and nosological specificity of the condition. Moreover, the criteria for the differential diagnosis between the atonic form of intellectual disability and autism are discussed in detail. Based on the analysis of literature and the results of own clinical observations, the authors conclude that a thorough differential analysis between childhood autism and atonic form of intellectual disability in children is necessary, otherwise, there is a risk of overdiagnosis of autistic disorders. The authors also point to the role of the brain lesion, particularly in the area of reticular formation, in the occurrence of phenomena of mental atony.
Quality of Life Scores Pre and Post Autologous Stem Cell Transplant for Patients with Lymphoid Malignancies

We performed prospective quality of life assessments on 304 patients with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL), Hodgkin’s disease (HD), or Multiple Myeloma (MM), undergoing an autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) from June 2003 through December 2007. Patients underwent QOL assessment one to two weeks prior to stem cell mobilization for ASCT, and 40–44 days (Day 42) post ASCT. We used the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy–Bone Marrow Transplant (FACT-BMT) assessment tool which includes five component scores: physical well being (PWB), social well being (SWB), emotional well being (EWB), functional well being (FWB), and additional concerns (AC). The total scores the sum of the score of the five components. We also administered a Profile of Mood State (POMS) scale which measures depression, vigor, anger, tension, confusion, and fatigue. Of 304 total patients, 65% had NHL, 21% MM, and 14% HD; median age was 53; 60% were male; 25% received prior radiation therapy; preparative regimens were busulfan based or melphalan; all patients received peripheral stem cells alone, median inpatient length of stay was 21 days. Using the FACT scale, there was a significant change from baseline data to day 42 scores. 218/304 patients completed baseline and Day 42 evaluations. Compared to baseline, patients had a significantly increased day 42 EWB score (p
Recruiting Medical Students to Neurosurgery Through a Focused Neuroanatomy Lab Initiative.

Objective Many medical students find neurosurgery interesting, but few pursue it as a career. Reasons for this mismatch include lack of exposure and poor perceptions of its career demands, work–life balance, personalities, and patient outcomes. It is imperative to recruit promising students early in medical school to build a pipeline of future neurosurgeons. We aimed to recruit medical students to neurosurgery and improve perceptions of the field by hosting an optional cadaver laboratory event (Neuroanatomy Lab Initiative [NLI]) during first-year students' gross anatomy course. Methods Five neurosurgery residents and a rotating faculty member led students through the hands-on performance of a retrosigmoid craniotomy on 4 anatomic specimens in the students' cadaveric laboratory. Questionnaires with 6-point Likert scores were distributed to students before and after the NLI. Results Thirty-nine students with broad specialty interests and previous experiences attended. They perceived neurosurgery to be demanding, competitive, and incongruent with work–life balance and family. At baseline, their interest in neurosurgery was high despite perceived lack of knowledge about the field. Students were eager to participate in neurosurgical procedures and interactions with neurosurgeons. After the NLI, students felt more knowledgeable about neurosurgery and perceived neurosurgery faculty and residents as more pleasant/friendly, approachable, and satisfied with their careers. Conclusions An NLI during first-year medical students' anatomy course was an effective, relatively low-resource means of engaging students and improving their perceptions of neurosurgery. We provide a framework for scaling this initiative to other institutions to help recruit the next generation of neurosurgeons.
Expanding Photovoltaic Energy Usage: The Competitive Energy Environment

Since the price difference between photovoltaic electricity generation and conventional sources is the key to expanding photovoltaic usage, it is important to examine the capabilities and potentials of photovoltaic technology to reduce electric energy price and compare this to the factors that bear upon the price of conventionally generated electricity. The purpose of this paper will be to discuss the factors that can be expected to determine photovoltaic energy prices and their price projections and compare them to the current analyses on conventional energy price factors and their projections. The objective of this comparison is to determine what the closure on the price differences can reasonably be expected to be, since that is the key indicator for increased photovoltaic usage.
Race, Gender, and the SISE Approach

Chapter 5 presents an analysis of the Structural Inquiry of Stigmatized Englishes (SISE) approach data centered on students’ race and gender, specifically, how their identity factors correlate with their likeliness to experience and acknowledge a shift in their language attitudes. The data show that, while the approach is overwhelmingly successful with female students and students of color, a significant percentage of White male students emerge as a group that shows resistance to the approach. Several case studies are analyzed to illustrate this trend, and the chapter concludes by proposing strategies for attempting to reach those in this group—and others who may be resistant to experiencing and acknowledging attitudinal shifts—both within and outside the classroom.
Cardiovascular Health Score and Lifetime Risk of Cardiovascular Disease: The Cardiovascular Lifetime Risk Pooling Project.

Background Long-term risks of cardiovascular disease (CVD) according to levels of cardiovascular health (CVH) have not been characterized in a diverse, representative population. Methods and Results We pooled individual-level data from 30 447 participants (mean [SD] age, 55.0 [13.9] years; 60.6% women; 31.8% black) from 7 US cohort studies. We defined CVH based on levels of 7 American Heart Association health metrics, scored as ideal (2 points), intermediate (1 point), or poor (0 points). The total CVH score was used to quantify overall CVH as high (12-14 points), moderate (9-11 points), or low (0-8 points). We used a modified Kaplan-Meier analysis, accounting for the competing risk of death, to estimate the lifetime risk of CVD (composite of incident myocardial infarction, stroke, heart failure, or CVD death) separately in white and black men and women free of CVD at index ages of <40, 40 to 59, and ≥60 years. High CVH was more prevalent among women compared with men, white compared with black participants, and in younger compared with older participants. During 538 477 person-years of follow-up, we observed 6546 CVD events. In women aged 40 to 59 years, those with high CVH had lower lifetime risk (95% CI) of CVD (white women, 12.6% [2.6%-22.6%]; black women, 0.0%) compared with moderate (white women, 16.6% [13.0%-20.2%]; black women, 12.7% [6.8%-18.5%]) and low (white women, 33.8% [30.6%-37.1%]; black women, 34.7% [30.4%-39.0%]) CVH strata. Patterns were similar for men and individuals <40 and ≥60 years of age. Conclusions Higher baseline CVH at all ages in adulthood is associated with substantially lower lifetime risk for CVD compared with moderate and low CVH, in white and black men and women in the United States. Public health and healthcare efforts aimed at maintaining and restoring higher CVH throughout the life course could provide substantial benefits for the population burden of CVD.
Understanding Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Autism-Related Service Use Among Medicaid-Enrolled Children

Racial and ethnic disparities in the use of nine common autism-related services among Medicaid-enrolled children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) were examined, distinguishing between school and other community-based outpatient settings. Using 2012 Medicaid Analytic Extract data, we identified 117,848 continuously enrolled children with ASD. Several racial and ethnic disparities were found, varying by geography. Black, Asian, and Native American/Pacific Islanders received fewer outpatient services compared with white children, but there was no disparity for Latinx children. Black and Asian children received more school-based services than white children. Disparities in case management/care coordination services were largest and present in each minority group. Geographic variation in receipt of services suggests targets for policy intervention to improve access for minorities with ASD.
Mushroom Consumption and Cardiovascular Health: A Systematic Review.

Abstract Introduction Edible mushrooms have a great nutritional value including high protein, essential amino acids, fiber, vitamins (B1, B2, B12, C, and D), minerals (calcium [Ca], potassium [K], magnesium [Mg], sodium [Na], phosphorus [P], copper [Cu], iron [Fe], manganese [Mn], and selenium [Se]), low fatty foods, and sodium. The objective of this systematic review was to determine the relationship between edible mushroom consumption and overall cardiovascular risk. Methods We systematically searched Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, Ovid Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Scopus, and Web of Science from database inception from 1966 through August 2020 for observational studies that reported the association between edible mushroom consumption and cardiovascular risk. Two investigators independently reviewed data. Conflicts were resolved through consensus discussion. Results Of 1479 studies, we identified 7 prospective studies. Edible mushroom consumption may have favorable effects on lipid profiles by changing some metabolic markers such as low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, total cholesterol, and triglycerides. Moreover, edible mushroom consumption is probably associated with reduced mean blood pressure. The beneficial overall cardiovascular risk, stroke risk, and coronary artery disease of edible mushroom consumption are not consistent. Conclusions Edible mushroom consumption has not been shown to conclusively affect cardiovascular risk factors to date. However, potential health benefits may exist, including a favorable alteration of lipid profiles and blood pressure reduction.