cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Minimizing Communication in All-Pairs Shortest Paths

We consider distributed memory algorithms for the all-pairs shortest paths (APSP) problem. Scaling the APSP problem to high concurrencies requires both minimizing inter-processor communication as well as maximizing temporal data locality. The 2.5D APSP algorithm, which is based on the divide-and-conquer paradigm, satisfies both of these requirements: it can utilize any extra available memory to perform asymptotically less communication, and it is rich in semiring matrix multiplications, which have high temporal locality. We start by introducing a block-cyclic 2D (minimal memory) APSP algorithm. With a careful choice of block-size, this algorithm achieves known communication lower-bounds for latency and bandwidth. We extend this 2D block-cyclic algorithm to a 2.5D algorithm, which can use c extra copies of data to reduce the bandwidth cost by a factor of c1/2, compared to its 2D counterpart. However, the 2.5D algorithm increases the latency cost by c1/2. We provide a tighter lower bound on latency, which dictates that the latency overhead is necessary to reduce bandwidth along the critical path of execution. Our implementation achieves impressive performance and scaling to 24,576 cores of a Cray XE6 supercomputer by utilizing well-tuned intra-node kernels within the distributed memory algorithm.
Local invertibility in subrings of C*(X)

It is known that the maximal ideals in the rings C(X) and C*(X) of continuous and bounded continuous functions on X, respectively, are in one-to-one correspondence with βX. We have shown previously that the same is true for any ring A(X) between C(X) and C*(X). Here we consider the problem for rings A(X) contained in C*(X) which are complete rings of functions (that is, they contain the constants, separate points and closed sets, and are uniformly closed). For every noninvertible f ∈ A(X), we define a z–filter ZA(f) on X which, in a sense, provides a measure of where f is ‘locally invertible’. We show that the map ZA generates a correspondence between ideals of A(X) and z–filters on X. Using this correspondence, we construct a unique compactification of X for every complete ring of functions. Each such compactification is explicitly identified as a quotient of βX. In fact, every compactification of X arises from some complete ring of functions A(X) via this construction. We also describe the intersections of the free ideals and of the free maximal ideals in complete rings of functions.
Optimal routing to two parallel heterogeneous servers with resequencing

The optimal routing problem is considered under the class of fixed-position routing policies, that route customers to the faster server from the head of the service queue, and to the slower server from position J. The cost function is taken as the long-run average holding cost of the customers in the system. It is shown that an optimal stationary policy exists and is of the following type: the faster service is kept active as long as the service queue is not empty. The decision whether or not to route a customer to the slower server is independent of the state of the resequencing queue. >
Infectious disease associations in advanced stage, indolent lymphoma (follicular and nonfollicular): developing a lymphoma prevention strategy

Abstract Background Eradication of Helicobacter pylori in gastric mucosa-associated lymphoid tumor can result in lymphoma remission. We prospectively identified/treated infections in nonbulky, advanced stage indolent lymphoma (follicular; nonfollicular lymphoma) eligible for observation. Materials and methods Stool H. pylori, hepatitis C and Borrelia serologies, Borrelia and Chlamydia fixed tissue PCR, Chlamydia peripheral blood mononuclear cell PCR and hydrogen breath test for small bowel bacterial overgrowth (SBBO) were obtained. Results Fifty-six patients were enrolled. Positive infections: H. pylori (13); hepatitis C (3); SBBO (11). Negative: Borrelia (13); Chlamydophila psittaci (12, except one PCR). Lymphoma responses to antimicrobial therapy: H. pylori [one complete response (CR), 24+ months; one transient near CR]; hepatitis C [two CRs, 18+ and 30+ months; one partial response (PR) but hepatitis C virus persistent]; SBBO (one PR, 30+ months). Patients with associated infections, but without lymphoma CR, have required lymphoma treatment sooner than those without initial infections (treatment-free survival at 23.4 months median follow-up, 40.5% versus 74.7%, P = 0.01), indicating a different biology. Conclusion Infections are common in advanced stage indolent lymphoma (37.5% in our series). Anecdotal lymphoma responses have been seen and three have been durable CRs (18 to 30+ months) with infection eradication alone. The identification and treatment of associated infections may be a first step towards developing a lymphoma prevention strategy.
Performance of a reconfigurable antenna configuration selection scheme in a MIMO-OFDM system with modulation rate adaptation

In this paper we investigate the performance of an antenna configuration selection algorithm for a pattern recon-figurable antenna in a 2 × 2 MIMO-OFDM system. Channel capacity measurements were performed over a single link in both Line-of-sight (LOS) and Non-LOS (NLOS) indoor environments. From these measurements, an adaptive configuration selection algorithm was developed and the scheme's performance gains relative to a non-reconfigurable antenna were quantified. Finally, the configuration selection algorithm was also paired with a modulation rate adaptive scheme in order to exploit the improved channel capacity available with reconfigurable antennas.
Behavioral synthesis of datapaths with low leakage power

As technology scales down, and CMOS circuits are powered by lower supply voltages, standby leakage current becomes dominant. We present a behavioral synthesis framework for the design of datapaths with low leakage power. Our technique employs the MTC-MOS circuit design style as the basis for standby leakage power minimization. A parameterized register transfer level MTC-MOS (multi threshold CMOS) module library has been developed. MTC-MOS technology provides the capability to gate the supply voltage to the modules during idle times. Leakage power management techniques have been developed which can be applied during behavioral synthesis of the data-path. A resource allocation algorithm based on clique partitioning has also been developed for optimal allocation of registers and functional units for low leakage power. We observed up to 31.91% savings in module-wise leakage power. Shutting down modules during idle times also resulted in minimization of overall power by 34.2%.
Effects of the vocal tract shape in the spectral tilt of the glottal pulse waveform

Practical models of the glottal pulse can help enhance the overall naturalness of synthetic speech. A method for capturing the first-order effects is developed based on an approximation of the spectral envelope for a family of vowel-dependent glottal pulses. A linear relationship between the vocal tract and the glottal synthesis network parameters is obtained using least-squares minimization on the derived data. The method is practical and does not use excessive computational or memory resources. >
The most flexible system component: High speed digital oscilloscope

Oscilloscopes are often found in ATE systems as debug tools, but the high speed capture capabilities can expand their application into a multitude of anticipated and unanticipated testing needs. This extends the reader's understanding of the inherent measurement possibilities afforded by this important system component.
Vital sign detection using 60-GHz Doppler radar system

Non-contact vital sign detection using 60-GHz radar offers various advantages such as higher sensitivity and smaller antennas compared to lower-frequency systems, however, the respiration amplitude comparable to wavelength causes strong non-linear phase modulation, and relatively small heartbeat amplitude results in detection difficulty. In this paper, theoretical analysis and simulation of 60-GHz detection are provided to address these issues. Both shallow and deep breathings are tested in the experiments, and the detection technique monitoring both the fundamental and second harmonic of respiration is proposed. The phenomena explained in the work can be applied to many millimeter-wave Doppler radar applications where target displacement is comparable to or larger than the wavelength to ensure robust detection.
Guidelines for using psychometric consultants in nursing studies.

Consultation for measurement issues is an increasingly common expectation for many studies, yet there are few published guidelines on the use of psychometric consultants. The role of the psychometrician as research consultant is discussed and questions commonly asked of these measurement experts are identified. Consultation when selecting, revising, and developing data collection instruments is explored. © 1993 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Evaluation of the Shepherd and Cushing (1980) model of density-dependent survival: a case study using striped bass (Morone saxatilis) larvae in the Potomac River, Maryland, USA

Quantifying the degree of density-dependence in stock-recruit relationships is critical to understanding fish population dynamics. The Shepherd and Cushing (1980) model couples a simple model of density-dependent larval growth with a constant rate of mortality to predict numbers surviving to recruitment. The model has not been evaluated using field data, nor have its predictions been compared with those from other models. Here, the S&C model, an individual-based model (IBM), and a regression model are applied to 8 years of field data for striped bass larvae in the Potomac River, Maryland, USA, to predict larval carrying capacity (K) and percentage of recruitment lost as a consequence of density-dependent growth. The IBM and the regression model were corroborated by comparing their predictions of average growth rates of larvae and relative recruitment strengths to observed values for the 8 years of field data. Although the IBM and the regression model differed in their predictions of several important intermediate variables, both models predicted higher values of K and lower values of density-dependent growth than did the S&C model. Over the 8 years, the IBM and the regression model predicted an average of 0.3 and 1.8% recruitment lost as a result of density-dependent growth, respectively. In contrast, the S&C model predicted much higher recruitment lost (average of 27%). Slight differences in the assumed rate of mortality used in the S&C model resulted in values of carrying capacity similar to those predicted by the IBM and the regression model. Difficulties in estimating parameters of the S&C model from field data are discussed.
Regulation of Poliovirus 3C Protease by the 2C Polypeptide

Poliovirus-encoded nonstructural polypeptide 2C is a multifunctional protein that plays an important role in viral RNA replication. 2C interacts with both intracellular membranes and virus-specific RNAs and has ATPase and GTPase activities. Extensive computer analysis of the 2C sequence revealed that in addition to the known ATPase-, GTPase-, membrane-, and RNA-binding domains it also contains several "serpin" (serine protease inhibitor) motifs. We provide experimental evidence suggesting that 2C is indeed capable of regulating virus-encoded proteases. The purified 2C protein inhibits 3C(pro)-catalyzed cleavage of cellular transcription factors at Q-G sites in vitro. It also inhibits cleavage of a viral precursor by the other viral protease, 2A(pro). However, at least three cellular proteases appear not to be inhibited by 2C in vitro. The 2C-associated protease inhibitory activity can be depleted by anti-2C antibody. A physical interaction between 2C and His-tagged 3C(pro) can be demonstrated in vitro by coimmunoprecipitation of 2C with anti-His antibody. Deletion analysis suggests that the 2C central and C-terminal domains that include several serpin motifs are important for 3C(pro)-inhibitory activity. To examine the 2C protease inhibitory activity in vivo, stable HeLa cell lines were made that express 2C in an inducible fashion. Infection of 2C-expressing cells with poliovirus led to incomplete (or inefficient) processing of viral precursor polypeptides compared to control cell lines containing the vector alone. These results suggest that 2C can negatively regulate the viral protease 3C(pro). The possible role of the 2C protease inhibitory activity in viral RNA replication is discussed.
Using hyperquadrics for shape recovery from range data

Superquadric is an implicit model which was recently introduced and successfully applied in computer vision research. The authors introduce its generalization, the use of the hyperquadric models, for computer vision applications, and focus on its utilization for shape recovery from range data. The hyperquadric model can be composed of any number of terms. Its geometric bound is an arbitrary convex polyhedron, and thus it can describe more complex shapes than the superquadric. A fitting method is proposed that starts with a rough fit with only two terms in the 2-D case or three terms in the 3-D case, and then adds additional terms to improve the fit. The experiments indicate that the use of hyperquadrics is a promising paradigm for shape representation and recovery in computer vision. >
Frequency-Adaptive Network Modeling for Integrative Simulation of Natural and Envelope Waveforms in Power Systems and Circuits

Algorithms for the simulation of transients in power electric systems and circuits can be classified into two major categories. For the simulation of diverse transients in ac and dc networks, the algorithms process instantaneous signals in the time domain to track natural waveforms as observed in reality. For the simulation of lower frequency transients that modulate ac carriers in ac networks, algorithms that process phasor signals to track envelope waveforms are popular. The methodology proposed in this paper uses analytic signals to bridge the merits of instantaneous and phasor signals and enable the efficient simulation of both natural and envelope waveforms as well as the smooth transition between both. The key enabling method referred to as frequency-adaptive simulation of transients (FAST) is distinguished by the introduction of the shift frequency as a simulation parameter in addition to the time-step size. This distinguishes the methodology from the known methods of power system and circuit simulation, which only use the setting of the time-step size to adapt the simulation process. By setting the shift frequency to a nonzero value, the Fourier spectra of the analytic signals are shifted and adapted according to the waveform type of interest. This adds value because different types of transients with and without an ac carrier can be simulated efficiently and accurately within one and the same simulation run. To provide compatibility with existing tools, the numerical integration is formulated to model the network branches such that nodal analysis can readily be used to construct the overall network model. Calculations of the accuracy as well as test studies that cover network energization and deenergization, angle modulation, and amplitude modulation substantiate the claims made and demonstrate the application of the methodology
Automatic function selection for large scale salient object detection

Robust detection of a large dictionary of salient objects in natural image database is of fundamental importance to image retrieval systems. We review three popular frameworks for salient object detection, i.e., segmentation-based method, grid-based method and part-based method and discuss their advantages and limitations. We argue that using these frameworks individually is generally not enough to handle a large number of salient object classes accurately because of the intrinsic diversity of salient object features. Motivated by this observation, we have proposed a new system which combines the merits of these frameworks into one single hybrid system. The system automatically selects the appropriate modeling method for each individual object class using J measure and shape variance. We conduct comparison experiments on two popular image dataset -- Corel and LabelMe. Empirical results have shown that the proposed hybrid method is more general and can handle much more salient object classes in a robust manner.
“I Hope I Go Out of this World Still Wanting to Learn More”: Identity Work in a Lifelong Learning Institute

Objectives Research on the health-enhancing effects of later life activities gives limited attention to the age-segregated nature of many organizations; such consideration draws into focus identity processes contributing to these benefits. Studies also focus more on social than on educational organizations. We address these limitations by examining older adults' identity work within the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI), a not-for-credit later life educational organization. Method We use qualitative data from three sources: interviews with OLLI participants and staff (n = 32); observations at OLLI courses, events, and two regional conferences (118 hours); and content analysis of program materials. Data analyses followed a grounded theory approach. Results Analyses revealed identity work allowing members to view themselves as "lifelong learners." This work involved four processes: (a) framing as a college experience, (b) distancing from nonacademic pursuits, (c) embracing the mature love of learning, and (d) (re)casting themselves as lifelong students. Discussion Our study contributes to research on the benefits of later life activity by illuminating identity work processes operating within an age-segregated educational organization. These processes allow members to positively frame themselves as older adults; however, they not only reinforce stereotypes of younger and older adults but also devalue older adults unable to participate or uninterested in lifelong learning programs.
Cell Type-Specific Signaling in Response to Interferon-γ

Type II interferon-γ (IFN-γ) is a pleiotropic cytokine that regulates many different cellular functions. The major signaling pathway activated by IFN-γ involves sequential phosphorylation of the tyrosine residues of the Janus kinase (JAK) and signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) proteins, providing the primary mechanism through which gene expression is induced. However, recent work has revealed that the responses are complex, as shown by the activation of kinases in addition to JAKs, differential patterns of activation of STAT1, STAT3, and STAT5 in different cells, and activation of transcription factors other than STATs. This complexity is used to regulate biological functions differentially in a cell type-specific manner, by activating different specific signals and patterns of gene expression.
Liquidity, Mutual Fund Flows, and Reflow Management, Llc

This case examines the importance of liquidity to financial markets, using the dramatic volatility of mutual fund flows in 2008 as an example. While the case is targeted to MBA students in an investments or portfolio managment course, it is also appropriate for an advanced undergraduate course. It is written from the perspective of a fund manager who has experienced significant redemptions in 2008 and is considering whether or not to use ReFlow Management LLC's "liquidity provision" service. The case requires students to examine the nature and magnitude of mutual fund trading costs, how fund flows may induce additional trading and how ReFlow's innovative service attempts to resolve these issues. Through this analysis, students will better understand what is meant by the term "liquidity" and how liquidity, or a lack thereof, can negatively impact portfolio performance.
Rehabilitating Rehab Through State Building Codes

Building codes are not neutral documents. Traditional codes have the effect of deterring the rehabilitation of older structures. But rehabilitation - which can have many positive effects, especially on cities - should be encouraged, not deterred. One promising method of encouraging rehabilitation has been the adoption of "rehabilitation codes": building codes that establish flexible but clear requirements for renovators. After analyzing traditional building codes and three different rehabilitation codes, this Note concludes that more states should adopt rehabilitation codes on a mandatory basis.
The Protection of Intellectual Property Under Islamic Law

This article examines the extent to which traditional Islamic law (sharia) affects the ability of Islamic states to protect intellectual property. The article includes a brief introduction to some of the basic principles of Islamic law and then applies them to general standards of intellectual property protection. It then uses Egyptian law to illustrate how one Islamic country implemented basic intellectual property protections (as of 1992).
Synthesis of Arylazide- and Diazirine-Containing CrAsH-EDT2 Photoaffinity Probes

Two photo-crosslinking biarsenical (CrAsH-EDT2 )-modified probes were synthesized that are expected to be useful tools for tetracysteine-labeled proteins to facilitate the co-affinity purification of their DNA binding sequences and interacting proteins. In addition, improvements for the synthesis of CrAsH-EDT2 and N(1) -(4-azido-2-nitrophenyl)hexane-1,6-diamine are reported. Both photoprobes effectively entered HeLa cells (and the nucleus) and were dependent on the tetracysteine motif in recombinant DMRT1 (doublesex and Mab3-related transcription factor) to induce fluorescence, suggesting that their crosslinking abilities can be exploited for the identification of nucleic acids and proteins associated with a protein of interest.
Savaging civilization: Michel-Rolph Trouillot and the anthropology of the West

Given the risk of a diminishing interpretation of the accomplishment and ambition of Michel-Rolph Trouillot, his scholarly project can be profitably framed as a subversively ironic “Anthropology of...
Sodium: potassium ratios in insect cell culture and the growth of cockroach cells (Blattariae: Blattidae).

Efforts to culture cockroach cells in media currently in use for Lepidoptera failed until the Na:K molar ratio was reversed, with sodium made 10× the concentration of potassium. With this alteration, cells grew out from several tissues of cockroaches. Cells grew out continuously for as long as 156 days in the original cultures of oviduct from Blattella germanica (L.). Fat body and an unidentified tissue adhering to malpighian tubules also produced cellular outgrowths for shorter periods. An extensive comparison of basal salt solutions which serve for insect cell cultures indicates the importance of agreement of the Na:K ratios of the culture fluids with the ratios of the blood, which in turn are correlated with phytophagous or carnivorous food habits.
Preparation, properties and applications of free-standing porous silicon films

Using special electrochemical etching and lift-off steps, we have fabricated large-area freestanding porous silicon films in the thickness range from 0.1 μm to 50 μm. Their transmission is near 100% in the near infrared which is indicative of very high porosity/low index of refraction films. These optically flat and homogeneous films exhibit no surface and bulk scattering, despite the fact that they did not undergo supercritical drying. The relationship between the absorption coefficient, the luminescence spectrum, and the chemical and structural properties is examined as a function of preparation and post-treatment conditions. Because of their superior optical properties, these films are suitable for many device applications.
A parent-based intervention to prevent HIV among adolescent children of mothers living with HIV: the Ms. Now! Program

One group often overlooked by HIV prevention efforts is adolescent children of mothers living with HIV (MLH). Despite their potential vulnerability, very few evidence-based prevention programs exist for this population in the United States (U.S.) and elsewhere. The current study introduces a parent-based program adapted for families affected by HIV for the purpose of preventing adolescent HIV infection. Following a structured process of adaptation, 12 African American MLH-adolescent dyads were recruited from HIV clinics and non-governmental organizations in a southeastern U.S. city to participate in a feasibility pilot evaluation of the adapted program (Moms Stopping It Now! [Ms. Now]). The intervention consisted of group and individual sessions implemented in a university setting and at participants' homes, respectively. We determined feasibility through assessing participant acceptability and signs of intervention efficacy. Quantitative and qualitative process data revealed high levels of acceptability, as participants were largely satisfied and engaged with Ms. Now, and were willing to attend most sessions. In addition, positive intervention effects approaching medium to large effect sizes were observed for some protective parenting outcomes, including increases in parent-child relationship quality, parental monitoring, maternal HIV disclosure self-efficacy, and communication about maternal HIV infection. Other outcomes, namely communication about sex topics, did not show positive shifts due to ceiling effects and may be indicative of the pre-existing strengths these MLH possess. Ms. Now's approach and further refinement is discussed in the context of strengthening families affected by HIV. Moreover, we recommend that policy aimed at program development consider jointly targeting these populations (MLH and adolescents) due to the unique benefits of family intervention.
Visualization of the Cytoskeleton in Xenopus Oocytes and Eggs by Confocal Immunofluorescence Microscopy

Xelopus oocytes and eggs are popular models for studying the developmental and cellular mechanisms of RNA localization, axis specification and establishment, and nuclear envelope assembly/disassembly. However, their large size and opacity hamper application of many techniques commonly used for studying cell structure and organization, including immunofluorescence and other techniques of fluorescence microscopy. In this chapter, we describe techniques and procedures that we have used to preserve, stain, and view the cytoskeleton in Xenopus oocytes and eggs by confocal immunofluorescence microscopy.
PERCEPTUAL-MOTOR ASPECTS OF LEARNING DISABILITIES.

This paper stresses the importance of perceptual-motor orientation in the child as a foundation for the symbolic and conceptual activities of the classroom. Consistent and efficient motor patterns permit the child to explore his environment and systematize his relationship to it. Perceptual data are similarly systematized by comparing them with this motoric system. Through such perceptual-motor matching, the perceptual world of the child and his behavioral world come to coincide. It is with this organized system of perceptual input and behavioral output that the child attacks and manipulates symbolic and conceptual material in a veridical fashion.
Negotiating race in stand-up comedy: interpretations of ‘single story’ narratives

ABSTRACTThis paper explores how narratives of personal experiences among audience members in Midwestern comedy clubs shape their receptivity to the racial discourses deployed by stand-up comedians. Conducting a Midwest-based ethnography of comedy clubs located across three states, I collected data through a variety of methods, which included: live stand-up performance observations; interviews of comedians and audience members from the same shows to better situate their respective strategies and reactions; and audience surveys. My analysis reveals how the subtlety and art of stand-up performance styles combine with the pleasurable medium of humor to alternately reinscribe, challenge, or proudly celebrate audience understandings of race. The accounts shared by comedians and audience members at these clubs demonstrate the potential for stereotype humor – contingent on presentation styles and audience experiences – to foster ethnic solidarity or complicate racial-behavioral associations through repeated encou...
Epoxy exposure induced electronic properties change of graphene

Epoxy is one of the options for packaging of graphene based chemical and bio-sensors. In this work, effect of epoxy and its curing agent on the electrical characteristics of graphene field effect transistor is investigated. A Dirac point shift of 36 V was observed after 2 hours of epoxy exposure, while 15 minutes of epoxy curing agent exposure the Dirac point changed more than 130V, from 63 to −68 V, completely changing the doping type of graphene from strong p-type to strong n-type due to electron donating nature of the adsorbed molecules. The significant change in graphene electronic properties is due to the strong electron donating nature of amine group present in the epoxy curing agent.
The Nice One: The Productions of Robert Griffith

A protege of George Abbott, Robert E. Griffith (1905–1961), with Hal Prince, was involved in the production of iconic Broadway musicals of the 1950s, including The Pajama Game (1954), Damn Yankees (1955), West Side Story (1957), and Fiorello! (1958). Griffith helped shape the stylized flavour of the decade’s musicals.
Metal Hydrides used for Hydrogen Storage

This chapter discusses about metal hydride technologies for on-board reversible hydrogen storage applications. The metal hydrides such as intermetallic alloys and solid solutions have interstitial vacancies where atomic hydrogen is absorbed via an exothermic reaction; however, by endothermic path, the metal hydride desorbs the hydrogen reversibly at ambient to moderate temperatures. In any case, the hydrogen storage capacity of interstitial metal hydrides is rather low (<2 wt%) due to limitation in the crystal structure and unit cell volume. In order to increase the hydrogen storage densities, transition metal assisted Mg-based hydrides and other nontransition metal complex hydrides have been reviewed as part of exploratory studies which have been aligned with the US Department of Energy 2020 technical targets. A number of useful characterization techniques (X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, thermo gravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) and hydrogen storage property measurements (kinetics, pressure-composition isotherms, thermal programmed desorption, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry) have been employed for the investigation of some candidate materials.
Are nonemergent cardiac operations performed during off-time associated with worse outcome?

Abstract Background With the implementation of value-based health care, it is of increasing interest to understand whether performing elective surgeries during off-time impacts surgical outcomes. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of start times on nonemergent cardiac operations. Methods The institutional Society of Thoracic Surgeons was used to identify all adult nonemergent cardiac operations performed between January 2008 and December 2015 at our institution. ”Off-time” is defined as either operation “late starts,” that is, an incision time after 3 PM and before 7 AM, or procedures occurring during the weekends. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to examine its impact on in-hospital mortality and major adverse events. Available cost data were directly obtained from the departmental BIOME database. Results Of the 3406 cardiac operations included in the study, 2933 (86.1%) were normal-start and 473 (13.9%) were off-time-start operations. After adjusting for patient and operative characteristics, late operating room start times were not associated with increased in-hospital mortality (P = 0.28, confidence interval [CI] 95% = 0.99-1.03), readmissions (P = 0.21, CI 95% = 0.99-1.07), or major adverse events (P = 0.07, CI 95% = 1.00-1.12). In addition, there was no significant impact on total hospital cost (9.0% increase, P = 0.07). Conclusions These findings suggest that late operating room start times are not associated with increased mortality or other complications in a tertiary-care academic medical center. Our findings should be considered during operative scheduling to optimize resource distribution and patient care strategies.
The Greatest Generation Grows Up: American Childhood in the 1930s

Review of: "The Greatest Generation Grows Up: American Childhood in the 1930s," by Kriste Lindenmeyer.
Emerging Notions of Argument and Advocacy in Hellenic Litigation: Antiphon's on the Murder of Herodes

The Attic orator Antiphon is an acknowledged figure in the history of rhetoric because he is the first prominent Athenian logographer and because he wrote one of the earliest manuals of rhetoric. T...
Low Rank plus Sparse decomposition of ODFs for improved detection of group-level differences and variable correlations in white matter.

Abstract A novel approach is presented for group statistical analysis of diffusion weighted MRI datasets through voxelwise Orientation Distribution Functions (ODF). Recent advances in MRI acquisition make it possible to use high quality diffusion weighted protocols (multi-shell, large number of gradient directions) for routine in vivo study of white matter architecture. The dimensionality of these data sets is however often reduced to simplify statistical analysis. While these approaches may detect large group differences, they do not fully capitalize on all acquired image volumes. Incorporation of all available diffusion information in the analysis however risks biasing the outcome by outliers. Here we propose a statistical analysis method operating on the ODF, either the diffusion ODF or fiber ODF. To avoid outlier bias and reliably detect voxelwise group differences and correlations with demographic or behavioral variables, we apply the Low-Rank plus Sparse ( L + S ) matrix decomposition on the voxelwise ODFs which separates the sparse individual variability in the sparse matrix S whilst recovering the essential ODF features in the low-rank matrix L. We demonstrate the performance of this ODF L + S approach by replicating the established negative association between global white matter integrity and physical obesity in the Human Connectome dataset. The volume of positive findings p 0 . 01 , 227 cm 3 , agrees with and expands on the volume found by TBSS (17 cm3), Connectivity based fixel enhancement (15 cm3) and Connectometry (212 cm3). In the same dataset we further localize the correlations of brain structure with neurocognitive measures such as fluid intelligence and episodic memory. The presented ODF L + S approach will aid in the full utilization of all acquired diffusion weightings leading to the detection of smaller group differences in clinically relevant settings as well as in neuroscience applications.
Nodal downstaging in gastric cancer in relation to survival when ypN0 is achieved.

93Background: The AJCC 8th edition introduced ypStage for patients with gastric cancer due to the increasing use of preoperative therapy. ypN0 patients have better survival than ypN+ patients; howe...
Shrinking Money and the Effectiveness of Monetary Policy

Money is shrinking. The money supply (M1) in the United States, as a fraction of the nominal value of GDP, has decreased about 70 per cent since 1952. Money has shrunk because the demand for money has fallen. Technological progress in the development of alternative means of payment, such as electronic payment systems, increased credit availability, and new cash management techniques have reduced the relative quantities of transactions measures of money held by households and businesses. Moreover, financial innovation is likely to continue, which suggests that money will become even less important as a medium of exchange in the future.
Improving Gender Classification of Blog Authors

The problem of automatically classifying the gender of a blog author has important applications in many commercial domains. Existing systems mainly use features such as words, word classes, and POS (part-of-speech) n-grams, for classification learning. In this paper, we propose two new techniques to improve the current result. The first technique introduces a new class of features which are variable length POS sequence patterns mined from the training data using a sequence pattern mining algorithm. The second technique is a new feature selection method which is based on an ensemble of several feature selection criteria and approaches. Empirical evaluation using a real-life blog data set shows that these two techniques improve the classification accuracy of the current state-of-the-art methods significantly.
Cayley graph automatic groups are not necessarily cayley graph biautomatic

We show that there are Cayley graph automatic groups that are not Cayley graph biautomatic. In addition, we show that there are Cayley graph automatic groups with undecidable Conjugacy Problem and that the Isomorphism Problem is undecidable in the class of Cayley graph automatic groups.
Network Neutrality and the Need for a Technological Turn in Internet Scholarship

To most social scientists, the technical details of how the Internet actually works remain arcane and inaccessible. At the same time, convergence is forcing scholars to grapple with how to apply regulatory regimes developed for traditional media to a world in which all services are provided via an Internet-based platform. This chapter explores the problems caused by the lack of familiarity with the underlying technology, using as its focus the network neutrality debate that has dominated Internet policy for the past several years. The analysis underscores a surprising lack of sophistication in the current debate. Unfamiliarity with the Internet’s architecture has allowed some advocates to characterize prioritization of network traffic as an aberration, when in fact it is a central feature designed into the network since its inception. The lack of knowledge has allowed advocates to recast pragmatic engineering concepts as supposedly inviolable architectural principles, effectively imbuing certain types of political advocacy with a false sense of scientific legitimacy. As the technologies comprising the network continue to change and the demands of end users create pressure on the network to further evolve, the absence of technical grounding risks making the status quo seem like a natural construct that cannot or should not be changed.
459. Patient-Based Surveys to Better Understand Patients’ Perceptions of Healthcare Providers’ Hand Hygiene Practices and if Patient Responses Validate Secret Observers’ Hand Hygiene Compliance Reporting

Background Hand hygiene (HH) is one of the simplest and most effective methods to decrease healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). However, in outpatient settings, it is difficult to audit HH practices as patient-healthcare provider (HCP) interactions take place behind closed doors. Within our system, secret observers (SO) monitor HCPs HH, which is routinely reported at near 100%. We wished to determine patient’s perception of their HCP’s HH and see how well it matched SO HH observations.
The role of small or single-institution prospective studies in thoracic research

Interventional studies are designed specifically to test the impact of a treatment or management strategy on an outcome of interest. In this article, we will highlight two viewpoints regarding the role of small or single-institution prospective interventional studies within the field of thoracic surgery: first, that these studies are beneficial and can positively impact the field, and second, that these studies can have such significant limitations that they may have no meaningful impact. We will also review elements that can make for successful design and execution of small prospective interventional studies.
Influence of Copper Supplementation on Blood and Liver Copper in Cattle Fed Tall Fescue or Quackgrass

Copper concentrations were measured in naturally Cu-deficient and Cu-supplemented yearling Hereford heifers fed tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.) or quackgrass (Agropyron repens [L] Beauv.) forage. The data were used to establish a relationship between dietary Cu supplementation and accumulation of liver Cu, and to test the influence of diet and Cu supplementation on blood plasma Cu and ceruloplasmin oxidase activity. Dietary Cu supplementation was positively correlated with accumulation of liver Cu; the rate of increase in liver Cu levels diminished at high supplementation rates (liver Cu = 410.43 - 353.47 x e-.00295 x mg Cu supplement; R2 = .740), suggesting an efficient mechanism preventing fast, toxic Cu-overloading in cattle. The linear relationship (R2 = .7878) between blood plasma Cu and ceruloplasmin oxidase activity indicated that similar percentages of blood plasma Cu were present as ceruloplasmin in deficient, normal and Cu-supplemented cattle. However, the portion of plasma Cu occurring as ceruloplasmin changes significantly with type of feed. When compared with quackgrass, tall fescue not only produced rapid Cu depletion in unsupplemented cattle, but affected intermediary Cy metabolism and activity of Cu-enzyme ceruloplasmin differently at all levels of experimental Cu supplementation.
The Church, the Nation, and the State: The Serbian Orthodox Church After Communism

My chapter focuses on the role the Serbian Orthodox Church has played in Serbian politics since 1989, but especially since 2000, with the end of the authoritarian rule of Slobodan Milosevic. Centering the discussion on four principal dimensions that capture the Serbian Church’s influence in this period—nationalism, conservatism, homophobia, and religious intolerance—this chapter pays special attention to two main social and political fault lines in post-2000 Serbia and the Church’s central role in them: the status of its LGBTQ community and the continuing contention over Kosovo’s secession. The chapter concludes that the SOC continues to serve as a political force in Serbian society—a foundational source of Serbian national identity and an organization deeply immersed in contemporary Serbian politics. It is a Church that is deeply conservative, opposed to change, and primarily interested in preserving its status and privilege in Serbian society.
The Supreme Court and the Demise of American Democracy: A Comparative View of Campaign Funding and Political Gerrymanders

The United States has slipped from the list of fully functioning democracies maintained by "The Economist" magazine. The U.S. is now considered a flawed democracy. The magazine blames the impact of money in campaigns and the effects of political gerrymanders. This paper examines the U.S. Supreme Court cases that have led to these results and compares the resulting law to the laws of countries that have achieved and retained the status of fully functioning democracy.
Catalytic activation of ethylene C–H bonds on uniform d8 Ir(I) and Ni(II) cations in zeolites: toward molecular level understanding of ethylene polymerization on heterogeneous catalysts

The homolytic activation of the strong C–H bonds in ethylene is demonstrated, for the first time, on d8 Ir(I) and Ni(II) single atoms in the cationic positions of zeolites H-FAU and H-BEA under ambient conditions. The oxidative addition of C2H4 to the metal center occurs with the formation of a d6 metal vinyl hydride, explaining the initiation of the olefin-polymerization cycle on d8 M(I/II) sites in the absence of pre-existing M–H bonds. Under mild reaction conditions (80–220 °C, 1 bar), the catalytic dimerization to butenes and dehydrogenative coupling of ethylene to butadiene occurs over these catalysts. 1-Butene is not converted to butadiene under the reaction conditions applied. Post-reaction characterization of the two materials reveals that the active metal cations remain site-isolated whereas deactivation occurs due to the formation of carbonaceous deposits on the zeolites. Our findings have significant implications for the molecular level understanding of ethylene conversion and the development of new ways to functionalize C–H bonds under mild conditions.
The Internet of Things

While 5G is the initiator of possibilities to bring forth the next generation of computing, the Internet of Things (IoT) represents the actual devices that will be the vehicle for its success. For it is IoT that represents the physical components that will make a technology feasible by placing intermediate smart hardware in every place imaginable around the globe.
Connecting the wire: race, space, and post-industrial Baltimore: by Stanley Corkin, Austin, University of Texas Press, 2017, 256 pp., $27.95 (hardback), ISBN 978-1-4773-1177-6

Connecting the Wire: Race, Space, and Postindustrial Baltimore by Stanley Corkin provides a careful analysis of the popular HBO television series The Wire, which aired between 2002 and 2008. Situat...
A sparrow search optimization algorithm based MPPT control of PV system to harvest energy under uniform and non-uniform irradiance

To meet the increasing demand of energy, photovoltaic (PV) systems are viable solution but weather changing conditions cause PV systems to fall into partial shading (PS) category which makes the maximum power point (MPP) to be non-linear. Conventional MPPT techniques effectively tracks MPP under uniform irradiance level but fails under nonuniform irradiance levels. Many bio-inspired MPPT control techniques are presented in literature but drawbacks observed in these techniques are high tracking time, oscillations at global maxima (GM) and falling in local maxima (LM) trap under PS. A novel sparrow search algorithm (SSA) based MPPT control technique is presented in this paper. Enhancement in performance of PV systems, less convergence time, little or no oscillations around global maxima (GM) are improvements observed in the proposed technique during comparative analysis with other bio inspired techniques. These enhancements are also validated with experimental setup by implementing proposed technique on low cost microcontroller. Comparison also shows the tracking of GM of proposed technique with high efficiency greater than 99.98%, up to 50% less tracking time and zero oscillations at GM under PS conditions. Superiority of proposed technique in terms of sensitivity, solidity and cogency is presented using statistical analysis.
Grading Rage in the Pastoral Care Classroom: Tension, Trust, and Possibilities of Creative Transformation

Assessment and grading can elicit rage on the part of both learners and teachers. Can rage lead to creative transformation of classroom cultures to support students in achieving learning goals? Can rage sharpen pedagogical commitments? The author reviews a critical incident of unexpected grading rage that emerged in her once a week three-hour masters level introductory pastoral care classroom, what she did about it in the moment, and how three strategies she employed could be helpful for teaching and learning religion and theology more broadly. When grading rage emerges in the pastoral care classroom and beyond, teaching and learning misunderstanding stories, facilitated by neutral questions in charged contexts, can make room for creative transformation when supported by third voices.
Progressive Auditory Verbal Agnosia Secondary to Alzheimer Disease.

A 70-year-old left-handed woman reported 2–3 years of word-finding difficulties, impaired verbal comprehension, and unimpaired hearing. She independently performed daily living activities and did not meet dementia criteria (Montreal Cognitive Assessment 23). Examination revealed hesitant speech, mild anomia without word/object knowledge loss, and a normal writing sample. Written command–following ability was preserved with verbal command–following impaired. Spared environmental sound recognition vs difficulty with spoken words indicated auditory verbal agnosia/pure-word deafness.1 Neuroimaging revealed β-amyloid–positive PET, focal atrophy on MRI, and focal flortaucipir uptake indicating tau accumulation in primary auditory cortex (Brodmann areas 41/42) known as the Heschl gyrus (Figure).