cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Generic and efficient framework for search trees on flash memory storage systems

Tree index structures are crucial components in data management systems. Existing tree index structure are designed with the implicit assumption that the underlying external memory storage is the conventional magnetic hard disk drives. This assumption is going to be invalid soon, as flash memory storage is increasingly adopted as the main storage media in mobile devices, digital cameras, embedded sensors, and notebooks. Though it is direct and simple to port existing tree index structures on the flash memory storage, that direct approach does not consider the unique characteristics of flash memory, i.e., slow write operations, and erase-before-update property, which would result in a sub optimal performance. In this paper, we introduce FAST (i.e., Flash-Aware Search Trees) as a generic framework for flash-aware tree index structures. FAST distinguishes itself from all previous attempts of flash memory indexing in two aspects: (1) FAST is a generic framework that can be applied to a wide class of data partitioning tree structures including R-tree and its variants, and (2) FAST achieves both efficiency and durability of read and write flash operations through memory flushing and crash recovery techniques. Extensive experimental results, based on an actual implementation of FAST inside the GiST index structure in PostgreSQL, show that FAST achieves better performance than its competitors.
Microwave stepped-index luneberg lenses

Since materials with a continuous variation of index of refraction were unavailable for the construction of spherical Luneberg lenses, an investigation was made of stepped-index lenses in which the desired continuous variation of index with radius was approximated by a number of constant-index spherical shells. Experimental data on two-dimensional, TE_{10} mode, stepped-index Luneberg lenses indicated that 10 shells were sufficient for 18-inch diameter lenses for use at X band. Expanded polystyrene materials, developed with dielectric constants ranging from 1.1 to 2.0 in increments of 0.1, were used to construct 10-step, 18-inch diameter, spherical Luneberg lenses. Performance data for these lenses are given at wavelengths of 3.2, 1.8, and 0.8 centimeters.
Support studies for installing the phosphodiester residues of the Thy-1 glycoprotein membrane anchor

Support studies for late-stage installation of the three different types of phosphodiesters found in the rat brain Thy-1 glycoprotein membrane anchor are described. The strategy is geared towards optimizing convergency and the development of chemoselective procedures including deprotection, phosphorylation, esterification and cysteinylation has been investigated. Some of these procedures are being designed for oligosaccharides containing several unprotected hydroxy groups.
Torsional elastic property measurements of selected orthodontic archwires

Abstract A method for quantifying the torsional elastic properties of orthodontic archwires was investigated using three different alloys: stainless steel [SS], beta titanium [βTi], and nickel titanium [NiTi]. The shear moduli (G) were determined dynamically using a torsion pendulum. Aftera clamping correction was applied, the values of ( G equalled 11.0–11.3, 4.3–4.4, and 2.3–3.0 Msi for SS, βTi, and NiTi wires respectively. Using a 10% energy loss criterion in a static test, the torsional yield strengths (τ ys ) were all nearly 100 ksi except for the 0.018″ SS (51 ksi) and rectangular NiTi (13–17 ksi). The latter exhibited some pseudoelastic behaviour which could only be accommodated by the Johnson Elastic Limit (JEL). Having determined G, T ys , and the wire dimensions, the three basic torsional elastic properties (stiffness, strength, range) were calculated for each of the wires. The NiTi wires displayed the greatest range and the least stiffness, whereas SS wires showed the greatest stiffness and the least range. As predicted in earlierwork, the properties of βTi were intermediate.
Inhibition of bladder overactivity by duloxetine in combination with foot stimulation or WAY-100635 treatment in cats

The purpose of this study was to determine whether duloxetine [a serotonin (5-HT)-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor] combined with transcutaneous foot stimulation or WAY-100635 (a 5-HT1A antagonist...
How do children with eating disorders differ from adolescents with eating disorders at initial evaluation

Purpose: To compare the clinical presentation of children with eating disorders (ED) to that of adolescents with ED. Methods: Demographic, medical, and psychiatric data of all 959 in- and outpatients (85 males, 874 females) 8 -19 years of age diagnosed with ED that presented to an academic center between 1997 and 2005 were examined via retrospective record review. Young patients (n 109) were defined as aged 13 years at presentation, and older patients (n 850) 13 years and 20 years. Results: Compared with older adolescents (mean 15.6 years, SD 1.4), younger patients (mean 11.6 years, SD 1.2) were more likely to be male ( 2 9.25, p .005) or diagnosed with eating disorder not otherwise specified (EDNOS) ( 2 5.09, p .05), and less likely to be diagnosed with bulimia nervosa (BN) ( 2 13.45, p .001). There were no significant differences in anorexia nervosa (AN) diagnoses between groups. Young patients were less likely to report purging ( 2 26.21, p .001), binge eating ( 2 26.53, p .001), diet pill ( 2 13.31, p .001) or laxative use ( 2 6.82, p .001) when compared with older teens. Young patients weighed less in percentage ideal body weight (p .05), had a shorter duration of disease (p .001), and had lost weight more rapidly than older adolescent patients (p .001). Conclusions: There are important diagnostic and gender differences in younger patients. Young ED patients presented at a lower percentage of ideal body weight and had lost weight more rapidly, which may put them at higher risk for future growth sequelae than their older counterparts. © 2006 Society for Adolescent Medicine. All rights reserved.
Modeling of carbon nanotube clamping in tensile tests

In this paper, the stress distributions in carbon nanotube clamps such as those formed by the electron beam induced deposition (EBID) technique are analyzed and the contributing factors, including nanotube position, stiffness of clamp material, and thickness of the clamping pad between the AFM tip and the nanotube are examined for the case of tensile loading of the nanotube. The nanotube is modeled at the atomistic scale by the molecular structural mechanics approach and is assumed to be defect free. The clamp material is analyzed by the continuum finite element method. The nanotube and the clamp are assumed to be bonded perfectly to each other. This bonding condition sets the upper limit of clamping capacity. The simulation results indicate that the location and intensity of stress concentration are sensitive to the nanotube orientation. Misaligned nanotubes are likely to break near the edge of the clamp. The clamp material with a lower stiffness (for the stiffness range studied) and a thicker clamping pad between the nanotube and the AFM tip reduce the magnitude of stress concentrations in the clamp.
3-mm Anisotropy Measurement and the Quadrupole Component in the Cosmic Background Radiation

The large-scale anisotropy in the cosmic background radiation has been measured at 3-mm wavelength with a liquid-helium-cooled balloon-borne radiometer sensitive enough to detect the dipole in one gondola rotation (1 min). Statistical errors on the dipole and quadrupole components are below 0.1 mK with less than 0.1 mK galactic contribution. The authors find a dipole consistent with previous measurements but disagree with recent quadrupole reports. The measurement is also useful in the search for spectral distortions.
Dynamical Symmetry of the Magnetic Monopole

Abstract It is demonstrated that the interaction of a charged particle with a magnetic monopole possesses a large invariance; time can be arbitrarily re-parametrized. When the interaction occurs within conventional, non-relativistic dynamics, the entire theory admits an O(2, 1) conformal group of symmetry transformations, which seems to have escaped notice. Combining this invariance group with the O(3) group of spatial rotations shows that an O(2, 1) × O(3) group of invariances is present, in analogy with the Kepler/Coulomb system. Furthermore, at fixed angular momentum, the dynamics are characterized by a single, irreducible, unitary representation of the conformal O(2, 1) symmetry group, whose Casimir eigenvalue is determined by the monopole strength. Some similar properties of the isotropic harmonic oscillator are also mentioned.
Design and development of a hand-held optical probe toward fluorescence diagnostic imaging

Near-infrared optical imaging is an emerging noninvasive technology toward breast cancer diagnosis. The optical imaging systems available to date are limited either by flexibility to image any given breast volume, patient comfort, or instrument portability. Here, a hand-held optical probe is designed and developed, 1. employing a unique measurement scheme of simultaneous multiple point illumination and collection for rapid data acquisition and minimal patient discomfort, and 2. employing a curved probe head such that it allows flexible imaging of tissue curvatures. Simulation studies are carried out on homogeneous slab phantoms (5×10×8 cc) to determine an appropriate source-detector configuration for the probe head. These design features are implemented in the development of the probe, which consisted of six simultaneous illuminating and 165 simultaneous collecting fibers, spaced 0.5 cm apart on a 5×10 sq-cm probe head. Simulation studies on 3-D slab and curved phantoms demonstrate an increase in the total area of predicted fluorescence amplitude and overall signal strength on using simultaneous multiple point sources over a single point source. The probe is designed and developed such that on coupling with a detection system in the future, the hand-held probe based imager can be clinically assessed toward cancer diagnostic imaging.
Adaptive Nearest Neighbor Classification Using Support Vector Machines

The nearest neighbor technique is a simple and appealing method to address classification problems. It relies on the assumption of locally constant class conditional probabilities. This assumption becomes invalid in high dimensions with a finite number of examples due to the curse of dimensionality. We propose a technique that computes a locally flexible metric by means of Support Vector Machines (SVMs). The maximum margin boundary found by the SVM is used to determine the most discriminant direction over the query's neighborhood. Such direction provides a local weighting scheme for input features. We present experimental evidence of classification performance improvement over the SVM algorithm alone and over a variety of adaptive learning schemes, by using both simulated and real data sets.
The use of laparoscopic techniques in surgery for mucosal ulcerative colitis.

The use of laparoscopic techniques when surgical therapy is required for the treatment of mucosal ulcerative colitis has been slow to develop; the surgery is extensive, and the instruments are limited. The often urgent nature of the surgery, along with the fragile inflamed colon, have contributed to the limited development of this surgical approach. Yet there is a paradox, as these patients have often anticipated surgery and thus are extremely frightened about it, or must undergo a major operation under urgent circumstances. In this setting, it would seem that a minimally invasive surgical approach would make sense if safe and reasonable, because healing, scarring, and patient fears can be minimized. We are encouraged by the experience we have gained over the past several years in performing these complex laparoscopic cases. The development of some of the newer surgical technologies has shortened operative times. Several recent studies have demonstrated short-term advantages with the laparoscopic approach...
Effects of Substituents on Molecular Devices

The current-voltage characteristics of small aliphatic chains of alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, and oligophenylene-ethylenes, with and without substituents and terminated in sulfur attached nanosized gold electrodes are determined using ab initio procedures for discrete and extended systems in a density functional theory-Green function's approach where most of the chemistry is considered. It is found that the current-voltage characteristics of small molecules can be tailored by the addition of substituents. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem 108: 1546 -1554, 2008
Bankrolling stem-cell research with California dollars.

Keith R. Yamamoto discusses the $3 billion bond measure that will be put before the California voters to provide state funds for human embryonic stem-cell research.
Linking Maintenance Strategies to Relationship Development and Disengagement: A Reconceptualization

Maintenance strategies are conceptualized as vehicles by which romantic partners can change, as well as preserve, their relationships. A longitudinal approach is used to investigate the idea that daters' perceptions of proactive/constructive maintenance will affect four possible relational outcomes - escalation, stability, de-escalation and termination. Results indicate that perceived frequent use of proactive/constructive maintenance strategies is associated with stability or escalation, while perceived infrequent use of these strategies is related to de-escalation or termination. Results also demonstrate that perceptions of openness and assurances increase over time in escalating relationships, while perceptions of positivity, assurances and the sharing of tasks decrease in de-escalating relationships. These findings support the contention that proactive/constructive maintenance strategies operate not only to stabilize relationships, but also to change them.
Novel PDMS(silicone)-in-PDMS(silicone): Low cost flexible electronics without metallization

Future electronics will undoubtedly require natural integration at the system, device and package level in the form of a functional, flexible package. Functional, flexible electronics expand the functionality of devices allowing morphological-electronic response for ergonomic and natural interfaces between the device and its surroundings. Recent technological successes have been able to fabricate functional, flexible electronics, however have all failed to develop a package capable of meeting the stringent cost, reliability and performance required of consumer electronics. We demonstrate the application of electrically conductive adhesive technology to produce low cost, flexible electronics without metallization. We have shown the capability of fabrication of highly conductive Poly(dimethlysiloxane) (PDMS) (ρ~7×10−4 Ω•cm) by incorporation of 80 wt% bimodal distribution of micron sized silver flakes. PDMS is both the ideal substrate and composite matrix material due to its unique properties; PDMS is optically transparent, viscoelastic, chemically and thermally stable, highly flexible, hydrophobic and can easily be molded with high resolution and aspect ratio. These unique properties of PDMS allow for high resolution molds to be prepared from photolithographically defined substrates. Screen printing of electrically conductive PDMS into these molds with micro-sized features creates a low cost, flexible electronic package. We have coined this package PDMS-in-PDMS. We show that PDMS ECA can be prepared by curing a novel formulation of PDMS at curing temperatures of 150 °C for 15 minutes. Upon curing, the ECA undergoes a transition from insulating to conductive. TMA results have shown that this transition is due to ECA shrinkage >20%. Furthermore, we show simultaneous conductivity and tensile strain measurements to show the electrical properties of PDMS ECA are unaffected by tensile strains of >40%. We show the feasibility of this technology to create low cost, flexible devices without the need for metallization.
Simulation study of high-dose-rate brachytherapy for early glottic cancer.

Abstract Purpose External beam radiation therapy (EBRT) is effective for early glottic cancers, with cure rates of ∼90% for T1 tumors. EBRT has strengths but also disadvantages including radiation to healthy tissues and duration of 5–7 weeks. With advances in laryngeal framework surgery, new devices can provide reliable, minimally invasive access to the larynx. Such devices could be modified to insert brachytherapy catheters. Brachytherapy could provide focused radiation while limiting dose to normal structures in the larynx and neck. As a preliminary step, we performed simulations comparing EBRT to high-dose-rate brachytherapy to assess if this approach could provide dosimetric advantage. Methods and Materials One- and 2-catheter brachytherapy simulations were performed for 3 patients with T1 glottic carcinoma. Percentage of dose delivered to the target and adjacent structures was compared with conventional EBRT using 3D and intensity-modulated radiation therapy approaches. Results Percentage of structures exposed to 50% of the dose was lower for brachytherapy compared with 3D EBRT and intensity-modulated radiation therapy, particularly for the cricoid and contralateral arytenoid. Dose was also lower for the carotid-internal jugular vein complexes compared with 3D EBRT. Dose profiles did not differ significantly between 1- and 2-catheter simulations. Conclusion Brachytherapy can decrease radiation to normal tissues including laryngeal cartilages and carotid-internal jugular vein complexes. Recent advancements allowing catheter placement may afford the potential to decrease radiation to healthy tissues with decreased treatment time. However, careful, stepwise evaluation of feasibility and outcomes in model systems is required before recommending this approach for such high cure rate cancers in humans.
The Elimination of Absolute Time

In light of what we have seen in our previous chapter, what can be said of SR’s putative elimination of metaphysical time and space?
Deadly Combinations: How Self-Defense Laws Pairing Immunity with a Presumption of Fear Allow Criminals to 'Get Away with Murder'

This Article identifies as problematic the intersection of Florida’s Immunity Statute and its current Castle Doctrine, which presumes reasonable fear where one acts in self-defense in the “castle.” The coupling together of immunity and the presumption of reasonable fear creates a bar to prosecution in Castle self-defense cases. The Article addresses problems associated with the lack of guidelines to ensure the equal application of the law to self-defense cases, and the lack of procedural tools available for the assertion of immunity arising from a self-defense act.
Food: The Main Course to Wellness and Illness in Patients With Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Food sits at the intersection between gastrointestinal (GI) physiology and symptoms in patients with the irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It is now clear that the majority of IBS sufferers associate eating a meal with their GI and non-GI symptoms. This is hardly surprising when one considers that food can affect a variety of physiologic factors (motility, visceral sensation, brain-gut interactions, microbiome, permeability, immune activation, and neuro-endocrine function) relevant to the pathogenesis of IBS. In recent years, clinical research has increasingly focused on diet as a treatment for IBS. There is a relative paucity of data from rigorous, randomized, controlled trials for any dietary intervention in IBS patients. Currently, the largest body of literature has addressed the efficacy of dietary restriction of fermentable oligo, di, monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAPs). In the future, dietary treatments for IBS will move beyond the current focus on elimination to embrace supplementation with "functional" foods.
Strength Analysis of Composite Pinned Joints

Joining by mechanical fasteners is common practice in the assembly of structures. For advanced composites, attachment by means of bolts or screws becomes more attractive, not only in view of assembly and disassembly, but also because of fabrication simplicity and structural efficiency, Theo De Jong [1]. In the analysis of mechanically fastened joints in orthotropic materials, the prediction of the stress distribution around the fastener hole is of fundamental interest for the prediction of strength. Since joints can lead to premature failure of the structure, joint strength is an important property in any design.
Effects of regional releases of resistant wheats on the population dynamics of the cereal leaf beetle (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)

During a 5-year pilot program, two pubescent (hereafter referred to as “resistant”) winter wheat varieties, ‘Fuzz’ (CI17412) and ‘Downy’ (CI17421), gradually replaced the less pubescent (hereafter referred to as “susceptible”) winter wheat varieties grown in a 4 mi square (6.4 km × 6.4 km) in Berrien County, Mich. As this shift in the proportion of resistant (pubescent) winter wheats planted in the area occurred, the population dynamics of the cereal leaf beetle, Oulema melanopus (L.), was monitored to evaluate the effects. Presence of adults in oats, susceptible wheat, and resistant wheat was unaffected by the increase in the proportion of wheat acreage sown with resistant wheat. As the proportion of wheat acreage sown with resistant wheat increased, adult CLBs were not forced into oats as expected, but utilized the resistant wheat by taking advantage of the within- and between-plant variation in pubescence. Leaf pubescence was associated with a significant reduction in oviposition in wheat; oviposition was highest in oats. In direct comparisons between resistant and susceptible wheats, no significant differences were observed in egg survival, egg parasitism by Anaphes flavipes (Foerster), or larval parasitism by either Tetrastichus julis (Walker) or Diaparsis temporalis Horstmann.
Magnitude and timing of inbreeding depression in a diploid population of Epilobium angustifolium (Onagraceae)

Magnitude and timing of inbreeding depression in a diploid population of Epilobium angustifolium (Onagraceae)
Our enduring legacy

![Figure][1] A thought-provoking work of scientific journalism, Elizabeth Kolbert's The Sixth Extinction tackles the sobering reality of the large-scale loss of biodiversity happening before our eyes. Although the fossil record documents five previous great extinctions, this time the driving
Neural Mechanisms in Sexual Behavior. I. Reflexology of Sacral Segments of Cat

SummaryActivation of the third sacral and first caudal segment of the spinal cord evokes a segmental response on the ventral root resembling the cutaneous component of the segmental reflex of the more cranial parts of the spinal cord. A proprioceptive spike is absent in S3, present in Ca1. In each of these segments, there is a crossed reflex return resembling the cutaneous component and frequently somewhat later and smaller than the ipsilateral response. Stimulation of the penis or of the vulvar vestibule elicits the same response, though without the proprioceptive spike in the Ca1 ventral root. Spinal transaction in the lower thoracic region does not alter these reflexes under the experimental conditions.
Adaptive Optics Imaging of Healthy and Abnormal Regions of Retinal Nerve Fiber Bundles of Patients With Glaucoma

PURPOSE To better understand the nature of glaucomatous damage of the macula, especially the structural changes seen between relatively healthy and clearly abnormal (AB) retinal regions, using an adaptive optics scanning light ophthalmoscope (AO-SLO). METHODS Adaptive optics SLO images and optical coherence tomography (OCT) vertical line scans were obtained on one eye of seven glaucoma patients, with relatively deep local arcuate defects on the 10-2 visual field test in one (six eyes) or both hemifields (one eye). Based on the OCT images, the retinal nerve fiber (RNF) layer was divided into two regions: (1) within normal limits (WNL), relative RNF layer thickness within mean control values ±2 SD; and (2) AB, relative thickness less than -2 SD value. RESULTS As seen on AO-SLO, the pattern of AB RNF bundles near the border of the WNL and AB regions differed across eyes. There were normal-appearing bundles in the WNL region of all eyes and AB-appearing bundles near the border with the AB region. This region with AB bundles ranged in extent from a few bundles to the entire AB region in the case of one eye. All other eyes had a large AB region without bundles. However, in two of these eyes, a few bundles were seen within this region of otherwise missing bundles. CONCLUSIONS The AO-SLO images revealed details of glaucomatous damage that are difficult, if not impossible, to see with current OCT technology. Adaptive optics SLO may prove useful in following progression in clinical trials, or in disease management, if AO-SLO becomes widely available and easy to use.
Treatment of acute lumbar sprain by acupuncture plus cupping

Fifty cases of acute lumbar sprain were treated by the combination of acupuncture, cupping and kinesitherapy. Forty-three cases were cured and 7 cases improved, the total effective rate being 100%. This therapy has an exact effect with a short course of treatment.
Modification of a technique for deriving gnotobiotic calves.

SUMMARY Modifications have been made to improve the sterility and viability of calves derived by a hysterotomy and slaughter technique. These include the use of a different adhesive and the construction of a pivoting crush-operating table to facilitate manoeuvring and restraining the dam.
The Effects of Cues and Information on Student Performance and Retention

The study investigated the differential effect of positive reinforcement (cues) on retention or memory for factual versus applied information. Subjects were administered a multiple choice test that required processing of both kinds of information. The performance on the test (Time 1) was compared with performance on the same test administered after seven weeks (Time 2). The results indicate that performance was significantly higher for Time 1 and on questions for which positive reinforcement (cues) were provided. There was no significant difference in the performance for factual versus applied information. The subjects did significantly better on applied information when cues were provided, but did significantly better on factual information when no cues were provided.
Cancer Drug Discovery and Anticancer Drug Development

This chapter focuses on the concepts relating to the discovery and the development of new drugs for cancer therapy. The purpose is to discuss the practices involved in the discovery and the development for clinical application of molecular-targeted therapeutics, new effective and safe anticancer agents that target critical cancer pathways. The concept of molecular-targeted therapeutic approach, which has now become the paradigm governing the present-day drug discovery process, and the related concepts of molecular targets, target identification and selection, as well as target validation in terms of the processes to explore the biological and therapeutic significance of the target are all discussed. The chapter also briefly outlines strategies that have resulted in some of the well-known new therapeutic agents that are currently approved or near approval for clinical use. In these cases, specific drug candidates are used to exemplify the translation from concepts to the finished products.
Tenovin-6 impairs autophagy by inhibiting autophagic flux

Tenovin-6 has attracted significant interest because it activates p53 and inhibits sirtuins. It has anti-neoplastic effects on multiple hematopoietic malignancies and solid tumors in both in vitro and in vivo studies. Tenovin-6 was recently shown to impair the autophagy pathway in chronic lymphocytic leukemia cells and pediatric soft tissue sarcoma cells. However, whether tenovin-6 has a general inhibitory effect on autophagy and whether there is any involvement with SIRT1 and p53, both of which are regulators of the autophagy pathway, remain unclear. In this study, we have demonstrated that tenovin-6 increases microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3-II) level in diverse cell types in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Mechanistically, the increase of LC3-II by tenovin-6 is caused by inhibition of the classical autophagy pathway via impairing lysosomal function without affecting the fusion between autophagosomes and lysosomes. Furthermore, we have revealed that tenovin-6 activation of p53 is cell type dependent, and tenovin-6 inhibition of autophagy is not dependent on its regulatory functions on p53 and SIRT1. Our results have shown that tenovin-6 is a potent autophagy inhibitor, and raised the precaution in interpreting results where tenovin-6 is used as an inhibitor of SIRT1.
Black Groups Accentuate Hypodescent by Activating Threats to the Racial Hierarchy

One reason White people categorize Black–White Biracial people as Black (called hypodescent) is to maintain the existing racial hierarchy. By creating a strict definition of who can be White, the selectivity, and thus status, of White people increases. Given that racial hierarchies are about the relative status of groups, we test whether perceiving Black groups increases hypodescent by activating fears about shifts in the racial hierarchy (i.e., a majority/minority shift). Indeed, White people rated (Study 1) and stereotyped (Study 4) Black–White Biracial people as more Black in Black groups (but not White groups; Study 2) than when alone. Critically, this pattern was driven by White people relatively high in fear of a majority/minority shift (Study 3a) or those experimentally led to feel this threat (Study 3b). We conclude that Black groups increase hypodescent by activating fears about shifts in the racial hierarchy, posing consequences for racial stereotyping.
Computational Methods in Control – A Survey and Introduction to the Literature 1

Abstract This paper focuses on the interplay between recent results and methodologies in numerical linear algebra and mathematical software and their application to problems arising in systems, control, and estimation theory. Some key results in numerical linear algebra are surveyed and a guide to the literature is provided. A number of issues in mathematical software are then outlined. Finally, a selected list of applications of the previous subjects to problems in systems, control, and estimation is discussed.
Genetic Counseling Overview

Family history may be the single most important aspect of treating patients with an inherited colorectal cancer syndrome. Clinicians face an uphill battle in learning to recognize the hereditary features of these syndromes and their implications. The International Society of Gastrointestinal Hereditary Tumours and the Collaborative Group of the Americas for Inherited Colorectal Cancer serve as resources for this service gap, recognizing the affected family as the “patient.” Referral to a genetic register will benefit the clinician and the patient. The process of genetic counseling provides a framework for understanding the intricacies of predictive testing. The challenges of informed consent and assent by adolescents; interpretation of uninformative results; patient confidentiality; and psychosocial sequelae are addressed by genetic registers.
Hepatitis B Virus Testing and Care among Pregnant Women Using Commercial Claims Data, United States, 2011–2014

Introduction. Pregnant women should receive hepatitis B virus (HBV) testing with hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), but it is unclear whether HBV-infected pregnant women are linked to care. Methods. We analyzed MarketScan™ commercial insurance claims. We included pregnant women, aged 10–50 years, with 42 weeks of continuous enrollment before (predelivery) and 6 months after (postdelivery) the first delivery claim for each unique pregnancy between 1/1/2011 and 6/30/2014. We identified claims for HBsAg testing by CPT code and described the care continuum among pregnancies with an associated ICD-9 HBV diagnosis code by demographic and clinical characteristics, including HBV-directed care ([HBV DNA or hepatitis B e antigen] and ALT test codes) and antiviral treatment (claims for tenofovir, entecavir, lamivudine, adefovir, or telbivudine) pre- and postdelivery. Results. There were 870,888 unique pregnancies (819,752 women) included. Before delivery, 714,830 (82%) pregnancies had HBsAg test claims, but this proportion decreased with subsequent pregnancies : second (80%), third (71%), and fourth (61%). We identified 1,190 (0.14%) pregnancies with an associated HBV diagnosis code: most were among women aged ≥ 30 years (76%) residing in the Pacific (34%) or Middle Atlantic (18%) regions. Forty-two percent of pregnancies with an HBV diagnosis received HBV-directed care (42% predelivery and 39% postdelivery). Antiviral treatment was initiated before delivery in 128 (13%) of 975 pregnancies and postdelivery in 16 (1.6%) pregnancies. Conclusions. While most of these commercially insured pregnant women received predelivery HBV screening, we identified gaps in HBV testing and the HBV care continuum which highlight potential targets for public health interventions.
Karl Jaspers: Philosophical Faith of a Scientist

Karl Jaspers’ concept of philosophical faith is a notion he developed in the latter part of his career, and it has been most carefully expressed in the work of Leonard H. Ehrlich. Jaspers struggled with the perennial dichotomy between reason and faith, and, in the face of modern perils, provided a rationale, and—more importantly—an example, of how one might live both. He does so with a sympathetic critique of science, and with an intuitive awareness of both the power of reason and the demands of emotion. Jaspers tried to combine Kant, Kierkegaard, and science as he developed his own belief system about existence.
Techniques of Learning Temperature Change

For Lab IX you will need to have prepared an image that will be used during the lab to encourage temperature learning. Proceed through the following instructions before your lab period.
Probable sites for estrogen receptors in brain and pituitary.

In the pituitary and areas of the brain the cellular and subcellular distribution of 3H-estradiol-17β has been studied by dry-mount autoradiography. Anterior pituitary cells and certain neurons show nuclear concentration and retention of the hormone similar to peripheral target tissues. This is interpreted, in conjunction with other data, as suggestive evidence of a genomic effect of estrogen in central target tissues, resulting in a stimulatory “feedback” (production of hormonal messengers) which may lead to a negative feedback effect on gonadal estrogen secretion by indirect action.
Virtual radiation fields : A virtual environment tool for radiological analysis and simulation

A virtual reality system was developed for computational and graphical modeling and simulation of radiation environments. This system, called Virtual Radiation Fields (VRF), demonstrates the usefulness of radiological analysis in simulation-based design for predicting radiation doses for robotic equipment and personnel working in a radiation environment. The system was developed for use in determining the radiation doses for robotic equipment to be used in tank-waste retrieval operations at the Hanford National Laboratory. As a reference case, specific application is made to simulate cleanup operations for Hanford tank C-106. A three-dimensional model representation of the tank and its predicted radiation levels are presented and analyzed. Tank cleanup operations were simulated to understand how radiation levels change during the cleanup phase and to predict cumulative radiation doses to robotic equipment to aid in the development of maintenance and replacement schedules.
Brucella Hijacks Host-Mediated Palmitoylation To Stabilize and Localize PrpA to the Plasma Membrane.

ABSTRACT Brucellaceae are a group of pathogenic intracellular bacteria with the ability to modulate the host response, both at the individual cell level and systemically. One of the hallmarks of the virulence process is the capacity of the bacteria to downregulate the adaptive and acquired host immune response through a plethora of virulence factors that directly impact several key signaling cascades. PrpA is one of those virulence factors that alters, via its polyclonal B-cell activity, the humoral and cellular immune responses of the host, ultimately favoring the establishment of a chronic infection. Even though PrpA affects B cells, it directly targets macrophages, triggering a response that ultimately affects B lymphocytes. In the present article we report that PrpA is S-palmitoylated in two N-terminal cysteine residues by the host cell and that this modification is necessary for its biological activity. Our results demonstrate that S-palmitoylation promotes PrpA migration to the host cell plasma membrane and stabilizes the protein during infection. These findings add a new mechanism exploited by this highly evolved pathogen to modulate the host immune response.
Advanced detector signal acquisition and electron beam scanning for high resolution SEM imaging

The advancement of materials science at the mesoscale requires improvements in both sampling volumes/areas and spatial resolution in order to make statistically significant measurements of microstructures that influence higher-order material properties, such as fatigue and fracture. Therefore, SEM-based techniques have become desirable due to improvements in imaging resolution, large sample handling capability, and flexibility for in-situ instrumentation. By using fast sampling of SEM electron detector signals, intrinsic beam scanning defects have been identified that are related to the response time of the SEM electron beam deflectors and electron detectors. Mitigation of these beam scanning defects using detector sampling approaches and an adaptive model for settling time is shown to produce higher resolution SEM images, at faster image acquisition times, with a means to quantify the different response functions for various beam deflectors and detectors including those for electrons and ions.
Metformin and stage IV colorectal cancer in elderly.

e15636Background: It is well reported that patients with diabetes have higher risk of developing new malignancies including colorectal cancer (CRC), and previous studies also reported that antidiab...
Abstract 238: Loss of AKAP150 Promotes Pathological Remodeling and Heart Failure Propensity by Disrupting Calcium Homeostasis and Contractile Reserve

Impaired Ca2+cycling and myocyte contractility are a hallmark of heart failure triggered by pathological stress such as hemodynamic overload. The A-Kinase anchoring protein AKAP150 has been shown t...
Behavior of major and trace elements in a transient surface water/groundwater system following removal of a long-term wastewater treatment facility source

Abstract In many aquatic environments, municipal wastewater treatment facility (WWTF) effluent discharges influence local hydrologic and chemical connectivity between the surface-water and adjacent alluvial shallow-groundwater systems. Fourmile Creek located in Polk County, Iowa received effluent from the Ankeny WWTF for nearly forty years before it was shut down in November 2013. The decommissioning of the municipal WWTF provided a unique opportunity to characterize the recovery from impacts of treated wastewater discharge on water quality at the surface-water/groundwater interface in a shallow, unconfined alluvial aquifer. Dissolved major element and trace element concentrations in Fourmile Creek surface water, hyporheic-zone water, and shallow, unconfined groundwater were monitored upstream and downstream from the WWTF discharge before and after the shutdown. Multivariate statistical techniques including principal component analysis (PCA) and agglomerative hierarchical clustering (AHC) were used to differentiate source-water contributions, characterize elemental components, and describe surface-water/groundwater interaction dynamics. During the post-closure assessment, there was subsurface attenuation of wastewater constituents including Al, B, Cu, Gd, K, Mo, Na, P, Pb, Sb, and Zn. During the same time, groundwater concentrations increased for As, Ba, Ca, Fe, Mg, Mn, SiO2, Sr, and U and represented a profile characteristic of the shallow alluvial aquifer. Hydrologic conditions transitioned from predominantly wastewater infiltration and hyporheic exchange before the WWTF shutdown, to predominantly discharge of native groundwater. Precipitation-driven streamflow events created fluctuations in the groundwater water-table elevations, resulting in variable contact between the saturated and unsaturated zones within the unconfined, alluvial aquifer and intermittent exposure to constituents stored in the sediments. The inorganic fingerprint of municipal wastewater was flushed relatively quickly (≤19 weeks) from the hyporheic zone indicating that processes like diffusion or sorption/desorption that might extend recovery may not be important for many trace elements in this system.
Playing the Role of Teamwork Facilitator: Using role play to demonstrate strategies to facilitate teamwork

This special session will be an interactive conversation around the key strategies instructors can use to engage their students in the processes necessary for effective collaboration and successful teamwork. Session participants will reflect on and discuss what these necessary processes are, learn about ways to facilitate these processes, and, through facilitation role play, have the opportunity to actively practice facilitation strategies on a simulated student team.
Symbolic execution for attribution and attack synthesis in neural networks

This paper introduces DeepCheck, a new approach for validating Deep Neural Networks (DNNs) based on core ideas from program analysis, specifically from symbolic execution. DeepCheck implements techniques for lightweight symbolic analysis of DNNs and applies them in the context of image classification to address two challenging problems: 1) identification of important pixels (for attribution and adversarial generation); and 2) creation of adversarial attacks. Experimental results using the MNIST data-set show that DeepCheck's lightweight symbolic analysis provides a valuable tool for DNN validation.
Mounting improvements of the MOM point contact diode

A planar mounting structure is devised that renders the etched tungsten whisker and the nickel post one integral mechanical structure with possible orders of magnitude improvement in the mechanical stability of the hooked-tip MOM point contact diode. Experimental results are presented.
Bayesian Model Assessment and Selection Using Bregman Divergence

One of the fundamental steps in statistical modeling is to select the best-fitting model from a set of candidate models for given data. In this paper, based on Bayesian decision theory, we introduce a new model selection criterion, called Bregman divergence criterion (BDC). The proposed criterion improves many existing Bayesian model selection methods such as Bayes factor, intrinsic Bayes factor, pseudo-Bayes factor, etc. In addition, using a Monte Carlo approach, we develop an efficient estimator that significantly eases the computational burden associated with our approach and prove its consistency. The versatility of our methodology is demonstrated on both simulated and real data; to this end, some illustrative examples are provided for linear regression models and longitudinal data models.
Beyond the World Cup: Women’s Football in Central-Eastern Europe

This chapter positions the 2019 World Cup as an entry point to examine the social-historical and media landscapes that structure gender norms around women’s football in (some) Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) countries. The 2019 FIFA World Cup had wide-reaching implications on women’s sport and brought unprecedented visibility to issues and stories surrounding the teams in the tournament. In order to fully understand “what we learned,” we must also examine contexts where national teams play, but did not qualify for the tournament, including Central and Eastern Europe. In this chapter, the author analyzes media coverage with a focus on European public service media and situates the analysis within the multidisciplinary study of sport media to illustrate the ways in which perspectives from the CEE region advance scholarship on women’s sport.
Predicting Portfolio Return Volatility at Medium Horizons

Commercially available factor models provide good predictions of short-horizon (e.g. one day or one week) portfolio volatility, based on estimated portfolio factor loadings and responsive estimates of factor volatility. These predictions are of significant value to certain short-term investors, such as hedge funds. However, they provide limited guidance to long-term investors, such as Defined Benefit pension plans, insurance companies, sovereign wealth funds, endowments, and individual owners of Defined Contribution pension plans. Because return volatility is variable and mean-reverting, the square root rule for extrapolating short-term volatility predictions to medium-horizon (one year to ten years) risk predictions systematically overstates (understates) medium-horizon risk when short-term volatility is high (low). In this paper, we propose a computationally feasible method for extrapolating to medium-horizon risk predictions in one-factor models that substantially outperforms the square root rule.
The effects of pelleted cannabidiol supplementation on heart rate and reaction scores in horses

Abstract The potential use of cannabidiol (CBD) as a nutraceutical to support improved health and welfare has been of increasing interest. In particular, CBD has been shown to decrease anxiety in humans and small animals. While there is little research published on the effects of CBD supplementation in horses, its use is increasing rapidly. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of feeding a pelleted CBD supplement on equine reactivity and heart rate (HR). Seventeen stock-type geldings were divided into control (CON) or treatment (TRT) groups. The TRT group received 100 mg of CBD once daily. Control horses were maintained on their standard diet without supplementation. A novel object test was used to evaluate changes in HR and reactivity before and after 6 weeks of supplementation. Heart rate was recorded before, at, and after exposure to the novel object. Reactivity when the horse was exposed to the novel object was scored live and through video review. There was no difference in starting, stimulus, or final HR, but TRT horses exhibited less reactivity after 6 weeks of supplementation. Results suggest that CBD supplementation may lower reactivity in horses.
Towards a Teleonomic Philosophy of Biology

The goal of this chapter is to present the dialectical holist stance on key topics in philosophy of biology as a theoretical bridge to Harris’s metaphysics of mind. In Sect. 6.2, I set out Harris’s necessary and sufficient conditions for life and in subsequent sections I compare these contentions with contemporary accounts. The central issues to be discussed in this chapter will be whether the notion of the unifying principle (ϕ) can be applied to the simplest unit of life, and if so, to establish what if any further philosophical insight this provides into the natures of life, evolution, and mind. In Sect. 6.3, I outline Harris’s argument that the explicative process ( Open image in new window ) subsumes and broadens Neo-Darwinism. Here I address whether formal governance in collective living systems provides teleological direction to biological evolution. In the final section, I show that for both Harris and AE, positing formal governance across a range of biological systems implies the Gaia theory.