cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Association of Neighborhood-Level Factors and COVID-19 Infection Patterns in Philadelphia Using Spatial Regression

As of August 2020, there were ~6 million COVID-19 cases in the United States of America, resulting in ~200,000 deaths. Informatics approaches are needed to better understand the role of individual and community risk factors for COVID-19. We developed an informatics method to integrate SARS-CoV-2 data with multiple neighborhood-level factors from the American Community Survey and opendataphilly.org. We assessed the spatial association between neighborhood-level factors and the frequency of SARS-CoV-2 positivity, separately across all patients and across asymptomatic patients. We found that neighborhoods with higher proportions of individuals with a high-school degree and/or who were identified as Hispanic/Latinx were more likely to have higher SARS-CoV-2 positivity rates, after adjusting for other neighborhood covariates. Patients from neighborhoods with higher proportions of individuals receiving public assistance and/or identified as White were less likely to test positive for SARS-CoV-2. Our approach and its findings could inform future public health efforts.
Distributed Planning for Serving Cooperative Tasks with Time Windows: A Game Theoretic Approach

We study distributed planning for multi-robot systems to provide optimal service to cooperative tasks that are distributed over space and time. Each task requires service by sufficiently many robots at the specified location within the specified time window. Tasks arrive over episodes and the robots try to maximize the total value of service in each episode by planning their own trajectories based on the specifications of incoming tasks. Robots are required to start and end each episode at their assigned stations in the environment. We present a game theoretic solution to this problem by mapping it to a game, where the action of each robot is its trajectory in an episode, and using a suitable learning algorithm to obtain optimal joint plans in a distributed manner. We present a systematic way to design minimal action sets (subsets of feasible trajectories) for robots based on the specifications of incoming tasks to facilitate fast learning. We then provide the performance guarantees for the cases where all the robots follow a best response or noisy best response algorithm to iteratively plan their trajectories. While the best response algorithm leads to a Nash equilibrium, the noisy best response algorithm leads to globally optimal joint plans with high probability. We show that the proposed game can in general have arbitrarily poor Nash equilibria, which makes the noisy best response algorithm preferable unless the task specifications are known to have some special structure. We also describe a family of special cases where all the equilibria are guaranteed to have bounded suboptimality. Simulations and experimental results are provided to demonstrate the proposed approach.
Topological transitions during grain growth on a finite element mesh

Author(s): Eren, Erdem; Mason, Jeremy K | Abstract: The topological transitions that occur to the grain boundary network during grain growth in a material with uniform grain boundary energies are believed to be known. The same is not true for more realistic materials, since more general grain boundary energies in principle allow many more viable grain boundary configurations. A simulation of grain growth in such a material therefore requires a procedure to enumerate all possible topological transitions and select the most energetically favorable one. Such a procedure is developed and implemented here for a microstructure represented by a volumetric finite element mesh. As a specific example, all possible transitions for a typical configuration with five grains around a junction point are enumerated, and some exceptional transitions are found to be energetically similar to the conventional ones even for a uniform boundary energy. A general discrete formulation to calculate grain boundary velocities is used to simulate grain growth for an example microstructure. The method is implemented as a C++ library based on SCOREC, an open source massively parallelizable library for finite element simulations with adaptive meshing.
Extended particle absorber for efficient modeling of intense laser–solid interactions

An extended thermal particle boundary condition is devised to more efficiently and accurately model laser–plasma interactions in overdense plasmas. Particle-in-cell simulations of such interactions require many particles per cell, and a large region of background plasma is often necessary to correctly mimic a semi-infinite plasma and avoid electron refluxing from a truncated plasma. For long-pulse lasers of many picoseconds, such constraints can become prohibitively expensive. Here, an extended particle boundary condition (absorber) is designed that instantaneously stops and re-emits energetic particles streaming toward the simulation boundary over a defined region, allowing sufficient time and space for a suitably cool return current to develop in the background plasma. Tunable parameters of the absorber are explained, and simulations using the absorber with a 3-ps laser are shown to accurately reproduce those of a causally separated boundary while requiring only 20% the number of particles.
Investigating Barotropic Zonal Flow in Jupiter's Deep Atmosphere Using Juno Gravitational Data

The high-precision Juno gravitational measurements allow us to infer the structure of Jupiter's deep atmospheric zonal flow. Since this inference is nonunique, it is important to explore the space of possible solutions. In this paper, we consider a model in which Jupiter's deep atmospheric zonal flow is barotropic, or invariant along the direction of the rotation axis, until it is truncated at depth by some dynamical process (e.g., Reynolds stress, Lorentz or viscous force). We calculate the density perturbation produced by the $z$-invariant part of the flow using the thermal wind equation and compare the associated odd zonal gravitational harmonics ($J_{3}$, $J_{5}$, $J_{7}$, $J_{9}$) to the Juno-derived values. Most of the antisymmetric gravitational signal measured by Juno can be explained by extending observed winds between $20.9^{\circ}\rm{S}-26.4^{\circ}\rm{N}$ to depths of $\sim 1000$ km. Because the small-scale features of the mid/high latitude zonal flow may not persist to depth, we allow the zonal flow in this region to differ from the observed surface winds. We find that the Juno odd zonal gravitational harmonics can be fully explained by $\sim 1000$ km deep barotropic zonal flows involving the observed winds between $20.9^{\circ}\rm{S}-26.4^{\circ}$N and a few broad mid/high latitude jets.
Hitchin fibrations, abelian surfaces, and the P=W conjecture

We study the topology of Hitchin fibrations via abelian surfaces. We establish the P=W conjecture for genus $2$ curves and arbitrary rank. In higher genus and arbitrary rank, we prove that P=W holds for the subalgebra of cohomology generated by even tautological classes. Furthermore, we show that all tautological generators lie in the correct pieces of the perverse filtration as predicted by the P=W conjecture. In combination with recent work of Mellit, this reduces the full conjecture to the multiplicativity of the perverse filtration. Our main technique is to study the Hitchin fibration as a degeneration of the Hilbert-Chow morphism associated with the moduli space of certain torsion sheaves on an abelian surface, where the symmetries induced by Markman's monodromy operators play a crucial role.
Effect of water on the molecular structure of a phosphatidylcholine hydrate: Raman spectroscopic analysis of the phosphate, carbonyl and carbon-hydrogen stretching mode regions of 1,2-dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine dihydrate

Abstract The Raman spectra of 1,2-dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC) dihydrate crystals were examined in (a) the 1250 and 1080 cm−1 PO2− antisymmetric and symmetric stretching mode regions, (b) the 1730 cm−1 carbonyl stretching mode region and (c) the 2800–3100 cm−1 C-H stretching mode interval. No evidence was observed for hydrogen bonding effects involving the nonester phosphate oxygen atoms. Spectra of the DPPC dihydrate crystal in the 1250 cm−1 region are compared to spectra of both anhydrous and successively hydrated systems and to spectra of crystalline glycerylphosphorylcholine. The splitting pattern in the 1240 to 1280 cm−1 interval for the DPPC dihydrate was interpreted in terms of the different bonding arrangements assumed by the PO2− groups in the two molecule asymmetric unit of the eight molecule unit cell. An unusual triplet is observed in the carbonyl stretching mode region around 1730 cm−1. These features reflect differing bond environments, relative to the polar and hydrophobic regions of the bilayer, of the 1- and 2-chain carbonyl groups. Spectra for crystalline DPPC dihydrate in the 3000 cm−1 C-H stretching mode region suggest a hybrid chain packing lattice which is analogous to the packing arrangement determined for the isostructurally similar DMPC dihydrate species.
The romanticization of abstinence: Fan response to sexual restraint in the Twilight series

Meyer's Twilight series has been criticized for its regressive gender representations. To understand its continuing appeal, we problematize the messages of abstinence and romance in the series, and contextualize fans' response with a discussion of postfeminist culture.
Real-time network anomaly detection system using machine learning

The ability to process, analyze, and evaluate realtime data and to identify their anomaly patterns is in response to realized increasing demands in various networking domains, such as corporations or academic networks. The challenge of developing a scalable, fault-tolerant and resilient monitoring system that can handle data in real-time and at a massive scale is nontrivial. We present a novel framework for real time network traffic anomaly detection using machine learning algorithms. The proposed prototype system uses existing big data processing frameworks such as Apache Hadoop, Apache Kafka, and Apache Storm in conjunction with machine learning techniques and tools. Our approach consists of a system for real-time processing and analysis of the real-time network-flow data collected from the campus-wide network at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Furthermore, the network anomaly patterns were identified and evaluated using machine learning techniques. We present preliminary results on anomaly detection with the campus network data.
Exploring three-dimensional visualization for intrusion detection

Intrusion detection systems have been popular tools in the battle against adversaries who, for whatever reason, desire to break into networks, compromise hosts, and steal valuable information. One problem with current implementations, however, is the sheer number of alerts they can generate, many of which tend to be false alarms. This drawback makes effective use of such systems a challenging task. In this paper we explore three-dimensional approaches to visualizing network intrusion detection system alerts and aggregated network statistics in order to provide the system administrator with a better picture of the events occurring on his or her network. While some research has been done using two-dimensional concepts, 3D approaches have not received much attention with regard to detecting network intrusions. Evaluation of our visualizations using the 1999 DARPA intrusion detection evaluation data set demonstrates the potential benefit of utilizing the third dimension. We show how a number of attack types in the data set generate visual evidence of abnormal activity that a security administrator might use as motivation for further investigation.
Static Parallel Arc Consistency in Constraint Satisfaction

Constraint satisfaction problems (CSPs) are ubiquitous in artificial intelligence; versions arise in areas such as vision, design, Boolean satisfiability, cryptarithmetic, and database retrieval. Most researchers have solved CSPs on sequential computers; relatively few have addressed the use of parallel computers for these problems. Among those who have investigated parallel approaches, several authors have solved CSPs using parallel tree search algorithms, while others have pre-processed constraint networks using parallel consistency algorithms. No one, however, has measured the specific work performed by the individual processors using arc consistency techniques to pre-process a constraint network. In this paper we introduce two Static Parallel Arc Consistency algorithms (SPAC-1 and SPAC-2), which ensure arc consistency of a finite domain binary constraint network, and which are designed for any general-purpose parallel processing computer. Through simulation, we measure work performed by each processor and compare it with work performed by existing sequential and parallel algorithms. Results show that our parallel arc consistency algorithm can be used to pre-process a constraint network with good speedup and utilization.
Exploring Adsorption of Water and Ions on Carbon Surfaces using a Polarizable Force Field.

Graphene, carbon nanotubes, and fullerenes are of great interest due to their unique properties and diverse applications in biology, molecular electronics, and materials science. Therefore, there is demand for methods that can accurately model the interface between carbon surfaces and their environment. In this Letter we compare results for complexes of water, potassium ion, and chloride ion with graphene, carbon nanotube, and fullerene surfaces using a standard nonpolarizable force field (OPLS-AA), a polarizable force field (OPLS-AAP), density functional theory (DFT), and ab initio theory. For interactions with water, OPLS-AA with the TIP3P or TIP4P water models describes the interactions with benzene (C6H6) and coronene (C24H12) well; however, for acenes larger than circumcoronene (C54H18) and especially for C60, the interaction energies are somewhat too weak and polarization is needed. For ions interacting with carbon surfaces, inclusion of polarization is essential, and OPLS-AAP is found to perform we...
Heat Transfer to an Isolated Bubble Rising in a High-Temperature Incipiently Fluidized Bed

Very few experimental data are available on the heat transfer between bubble and emulsion phases; no data are available at high temperatures. The effects of bed particle type and size, bubble size, and bed temperature on the heat transfer coefficient were examined in this experimental and modelling study. The heat transfer coefficient was found to increase to a maximum, and then decrease as the bubble mass increased in the bubble mass range investigated. Increase in bed temperature led to a significant decrease in the heat transfer coefficient. The simple mathematical model developed earlier was extended to include operation at high temperature. Tres peu de donnees experimentales sont disponibles sur le transfert de chaleur entre les bulles et les emulsions et aucune donnee n'est disponible a des temperatures elevees. Dans cette etude experimentale et de modelisation, on a examine les effets du type et de la taille des particules de lit, de la taille des bulles et de la temperature du lit sur le coefficient de transfert de chaleur. On a trouve que le coefficient de transfert de chaleur passait par un maximum puis diminuait quand la masse des bulles augmentait dans la gamme de masse de bulles etudiee. Une augmentation de la temperature du lit entraine une diminution importante du coefficient de transfert de chaleur. Le modele mathematique simple mis au point anterieurement a ete etendu de facon a inclure le fonctionnement a temperature elevee.
Role of the cerebellar deep nuclei in respiratory modulation.

The cerebellum contains three deep nuclei, i.e., the fastigial, interposed and lateral nucleus. Recent studies demonstrate that these nuclei play different roles in respiratory modulation. Activation of fastigial nuclear neurons predominantly increases ventilation via elevation of respiratory frequency and/or tidal volume. Ablation of the fastigial nucleus did not significantly alter eupneic breathing, but did markedly attenuate the respiratory response to medium and severe hypercapnia as well as hypoxia. The fastigial nucleus contains respiratory-modulated neurons and about 25% of these neurons do not show their respiratory-related phasic activity until exposed to hypercapnia. The fastigial nucleus also contains CO2/H+ chemosensitive sites that contributed to the respiratory response to hypercapnia. Therefore, it is concluded that fastigial nuclear facilitatory influence on chemoreflexes emerges during hypercapnia via recruiting intrinsic chemoreception and respiratory-modulated neurons. Full expression of the fastigial nucleus-mediated respiratory responses depends on the integrity of the medullary gigantocellular nucleus at least partially via monosynaptic projections. Additionally, the fastigial nucleus receives inhibitory inputs primarily from Purkinje cells located in the medial vermis and recent observations indicate that simulation of these Purkinje cells inhibits respiration. As compared to chemoreflexes, fastigial nuclear role in the respiratory mechanoreflexes is not significant. The studies related to the role of the interposed and lateral nucleus in eupneic breathing are limited and the results appear controversial. However, there is evidence to show that the interposed nucleus contains respiratory-modulated neurons and is involved in coughing motor control.
Decomposition and alteration of organic compounds dissolved in seawater

Abstract The dissolved organic matter in seawater is grouped into two fractions which are defined as having greatly differing reactivities with respect to both chemical and biological decomposition. One fraction, which constitutes the bulk of the material, is extremely stable and inert and is only slowly degraded by either chemical or biological processes. The other fraction, which is composed of trace organic compounds derived from living organisms, contains components such as free amino acids which are rapidly degraded, probably by marine organisms which use these compounds as a food source. Conclusions about the cycle of organic compounds in seawater based on total organic carbon concentrations could thus be misleading, since pathways involving labile trace organic constituents would be completely obscured. Investigations of the distribution, concentration, and possible diagenetic reactions of specific organic compounds are necessary in order to elucidate the cycle of these compounds in the oceans.
Cholinergic neurons of the chicken ciliary ganglion contain somatostatin.

Abstract Somatostatin immunoreactivity was studied in the avian ciliary ganglion by immunocyto-chemistry and radioimmunoassay. Immunoreactivity was localized to small diameter cell bodies of neurons from embryos, newly-hatched and adult preparations. Immunostaining of ganglia with a mixture of antisera to substance P and monoclonal antibody to somatostatin indicated that a number of somatostatin-immunoreactive neurons were surrounded by substance P-immunoreactive boutons, which characteristically terminate on choroidal neurons. Staining with a mixture of antisera to choline acetyltransferase and antibody to somatostatin showed that the somatostatin-immunoreactive neurons were less intensely-stained for choline acetyltransferase than were the neurons lacking somatostatin immunoreactivity. Bundles of nerve fibers showing somatostatin and choline acetyltransferase immuno-reactivity were found in the choroid layers of the eye. Radioimmunoassay indicated the presence of somatostatin immunoreactivity in both chick and quail ganglia; the somatostatin immunoreactivity eluted from high pressure liquid chromatography in the same positions as authentic somatostatin 14 and 28. These results show that somatostatin is contained in cholinergic choroidal neurons in the chick and quail ciliary ganglion. Gray B. and Pilar G. [(1987) Soc. Neurosci. Abstr. 13 , 790] have recently reported that somatostatin inhibits the release of acetylcholine from a preparation of smooth muscle from the choroid coat.
A new gauge theory without an elementary photon

Abstract A gauge theory is formulated in two spatial dimensions different from all gauge theories previously known. Unlike quantum electrodynamics in such a space there does not exist an elementary photon in the model, even though a bound state having appropriate quantum numbers can be induced for weak coupling to a spinor field. Particularly noteworthy is the fact that despite the demonstrated covariance of the theory, there is an anomaly (i.e., noncanonical) term in the spatial transformation of the charge bearing field.
Subsolidus Phase Relationships in the Ga2O3–Al2O3–TiO2 System

Subsolidus phase relationships in the Ga 2 O 3 -Al 2 O 3 -TiO 2 system at 1400°C were studied using X-ray diffraction. Phases present in the pseudoternary system include TiO 2 (rutile), Ga 2 - 2 x Al 2 x O 3 (x≤0.78 β-gallia structure), Al 2 - 2 y Ga 2 y O 3 (y≤0.12 corundum structure), Ga 2 - 2 x Al 2 x TiO s (0≤x≤1 pseudobrookite structure), and several β-gallia rutile intergrowths that can be expressed as Ga 4 - 4 x Al 4 x Ti n - 4 O 2 n - 2 (x≤0.3, 15≤n≤33). This study showed no evidence to confirm that aluminum substitution of gallium stabilizes the n = 7 β-galliarutile intergrowth as has been mentioned in previous work.
Cavities vis-à-vis Rigid Inclusions and Some Related General Results in Plane Elasticity

The stresses in a body that contains rigid inclusions and is loaded by specified surface tractions depend on the Poisson ratio of the material. If the Poisson ratio in this stress field is set equal to +1 for plane strain, or +α for plane stress, the rigd inclusions become cavities for elastic constants within the physical range. The paper pursues this circumstance, and in doing so also produces several useful by-products that are connected with the stretching and curvature change of a boundary
Character recognition: a unified approach

Three primary processes are utilized in most pattern recognition systems. (1) The representation process in which the raw digitized data is mapped into a higher level form. (2) The storage process which generates a known base containing the high-level representation of all known patterns in a problem domain. (3) The identification process which classifies the unknown pattern, given its high-level representation and the known base. This paper introduces a new and unified approach to character recognition in which the generation of the known base and the identification process are independent of the representation process. The concept of learning is applied where additional known data can be added to the known base thus allowing for better recognition. The concept of fuzziness is applied to the identification process to find the best match. Algorithms have been developed and applied to digitized characters. The processes of representation, storage, and identification used for this implementation along with results are discussed.© (1992) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Differences Among Nocardia spp. in Susceptibility to Aminoglycosides and β-Lactam Antibiotics and Their Potential Use in Taxonomy

Using disk diffusion and agar dilution methods, 109 clinical isolates of Nocardia were tested against 10 antimicrobial agents. A species difference in susceptibility was noted for cefamandole, carbenicillin, gentamicin, and kanamycin. These differences in susceptibility may be of use taxonomically as well as having some potential use clinically.
A simulated annealing procedure for single row layout problems in flexible manufacturing systems

In this paper we address a layout problem in flexible manufacturing systems (FMSs). A layout type that has been extensively implemented in FMSs is the single row machine layout. In such a configuration machines are arranged along a straight track with a material handling device moving jobs from one machine to another. The single row layout problem (SRLP) deals with the optimal arrangement of the machines for the above configuration. We propose a simulated annealing (SA) heuristic for the solution of SRLP. Extensive computational results, and ways to improve the performance of the SA algorithm through parameter fine-tuning procedures, are reported.
A Stopping Criterion for Classical Iterative Methods in Inexact Affine-Invariant Newton Techniques

We present a method for the computation of stopping criterion for linear classical iterations in inexact affine-invariant Newton techniques. We show that the same methodology does not hold for non-classical iterative methods.
Diagnosis of allergy: in vitro testing.

Relatively few laboratory tests are of proven value in the differential diagnosis and management of allergic diseases. Immunoassays for IgE and for IgE antibodies are the mainstays. Measurement of IgE in serum is advocated as a first-order laboratory test in the differential diagnosis of allergic disease in children and adults. The usefulness of laboratory tests for IgE antibodies in serum, once a subject of debate in the clinical allergy literature, is now firmly established. Confusion, in respect to the use of these tests, is most evident in clinical situations which have been the subject of limited clinical investigation, e.g., the use of tests for IgE antibodies to screen for allergic disease, the indications for their use in patients treated with allergen immunotherapy, and the diagnostic specificity of IgE antibodies to foods as an indicator of food-induced allergic symptoms. Confusion is also apparent in the interpretation of borderline test results, i.e., results which may indicate the presence of low titers of IgE antibodies, and in defining the optimum format for reporting results to maximize the analytical sensitivity of the test method. This review addresses the ambiguities noted above in the interpretation of results. The paragraphs that follow also consider the possible uses of laboratory tests for inflammatory mediators of immediate hypersensitivity, for IgG antibodies to allergens, and of tests designed to evaluate the in vitro functions of lymphocytes in patients with allergic disease.
Effects of neutral beam injection and gas puffing on deuterium and impurity levels in the scrapeoff layer of ISX-B

Abstract Plasma-material interactions in the scrapeoff region of a tokamak nave important effects on the overall performance of the machine. In order to prudently select the most appropriate materials for walls, limiters and armor plate, it is necessary to characterize the plasma that interacts with these surfaces and to understand what effect different modes of operation of the tokamak have on plasma characteristics. We have made a series of measurements on the ISX tokamak using deposition probe techniques to identify and quantify the impurities (Z ≥ 8) in the limiter shadow and to determine the temporal behavior of both impurity and plasma particles in this region. These measurements have been made under a variety of tokamak operating conditions, including doth ohmic and neutral beam heated discharges. The results are interpreted in terms of edge conditions, impurity introduction, gas puffing and the relative importance of wall and limiter contributions.
Paternal Involvement and the Development of Gender Expectations in Sons and Daughters

Examining the role of fathers in the development of children's gender role orientations, we argue that the development of egalitarian views regarding work and parenthood depends less on the extent of father participation in family and more on the nature of that involvement. A longitudinal survey of 2,000 children is used to examine the experience of paternal involvement during childhood as well as the ongoing father/child relationship and the subsequent effects on sons' and daughters' gender role orientations and attitudes in young adulthood. Ordinary least squares regression analyses indicate that the ongoing father/child relationship is more important than paternal involvement in childhood and the effects are greater for sons than daughters.
Humanizing the Death Penalty

Dans cet article, l'A. decrit son experience des vingt dernieres annees de son travail avec des condamnes a mort. Son but est de montrer un exemple d'activisme oriente par la sociologie, et comment la sociologie appliquee peut reciproquement informer la recherche academique, type de travail encourage par la SSSP depuis 50 ans.
Study of the resonant phonon scattering in KCl : Li using the spin-phonon interaction

The recent interest in defect modes has been fueled in large measure by their effect on the low temperature thermal conductivity of the host crystal. Beginning with the work of Walker and Pohl,(1) the change in thermal conductivity as a function of temperature has been used as a spectrometer to study those modes whose energies lie in the acoustic range.
CRT-313 Feasibility of Robotic Percutaneous Renal Artery Revascularization

The safety and precision of PCI performed with the CorPath robotic system been demonstrated. Percutaneous treatment of ostial renal artery stenosis requires precise stent positioning. We examined the feasibility of robot assisted renal artery stent implantation. The CorPath robotic system was
The concepts of fitness and selection in evolutionary biology

Abstract This paper examines the concepts of selection and fitness as they have been defined and used by various workers in evolutionary biology. In doing so, it presents several closely related versions of the theory of organic evolution. The paper argues that the several concepts of selection are related in a fairly simple way. Some of the concepts are equivalent to each other and lead to equivalent formulations of the theory of organic evolution. Other concepts of selection are not equivalent to those in the first group. These non-equivalent concepts, however, lead to versions of the theory of evolution that are logically very close to the equivalent formulations of the theory. The paper discusses four major definitions of fitness (‘tautological’ fitness, Darwinian fitness, Thodayan fitness and inclusive fitness), and presents the main properties of each. It is argued here that under each definition of fitness, fitness can be understood as a measure of the intensity of selection. This explains why the basic theory of organic evolution can be stated without mentioning fitness. Finally, the question of whether the theory of organic evolution is ‘tautological’ is addressed. Many authors have thought that it is. If the accounts of selection, of fitness, and of the several versions of the theory of evolution here presented are even approximately correct, the theory of evolution is not the kind of thing that can be tautological. This is because it makes fairly straightforward existential claims and existential claims of the sort envisioned here cannot be tautological or analytic.
On the topology of the domain of outer communication

It is shown that the topological censorship theorem of Friedman, Schleich and Witt implies, in the general setting of their result, that the domain of outer communication is simply connected. This improves recent related results of Chrusciel and Wald and of Jacobson and Venkataramani.
Professional development in optics and photonics education

In recent years, several New England projects have promoted professional development and curriculum design in optics and photonics. Funded in part by the Advanced Technological Education (ATE) program of the National Science Foundation (NSF), these projects have prepared middle and high school teachers, college faculty and career counselors from more than 100 New England institutions to introduce fiber optics, telecommunications and photonics technology education. Four of these projects will be discussed here: (1) The New England Board of Higher Education's (NEBHE) Fiber Optics Technology Education Project, (FOTEP) was designed to teach fiber optics theory and to provide laboratory experiences at the secondary and postsecondary levels. (2) Springfield Technical Community College's Northeast Center for Telecommunications Technologies (NCTT) is developing curricula and instructional materials in lightwave, networking and wireless telecommunications technologies. (3) The Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics project ComTech developed a 12-week, hands-on curriculum and teaching strategies for middle and high school science and technology teachers in telecommunications and focused on optical communication (fiber optics). (4) NEBHE's project PHOTON is preparing middle, secondary and postsecondary instructors to introduce theory and laboratory experiences in photonics, including geometric and wave optics as well as principles of lasers and photonics applications.
Rapidly enlarging nodular lesion of the anterior maxilla.

A 25-year-old Hispanic male was referred to our hospital oral surgery clinic from a local correctional facility for the evaluation of an oral mass. The patient’s chief complaint was a painless, rapidly enlarging swelling of his gingiva of the right anterior maxilla. It was first noticed approximately 8 weeks prior and described by the patient as a small bump between the maxillary right canine and maxillary right lateral incisor teeth. Progressive mobility of his right maxillary anterior teeth and slight drainage were reported. Before referral for lesion evaluation, the patient was treated with oral clindamycin 300 mg, 3 times daily for 10 days by his dentist with no improvement. On presentation to the hospital oral surgery clinic, the patient’s medical and dental histories were obtained and a clinical examination was performed. He denied prior orofacial trauma. The patient’s past medical history was negative for illnesses, hospitalizations, or surgeries. His social history included occasional social alcohol use before his incarceration. He denied tobacco or recreational drug use. On head and neck examination, displacement of the right lip and right naris was evident. No cervical lymphadenopathy was apparent on physical examination. On oral examination, a 5 7-cm nodular lesion was visualized involving the right anterior maxillary buccal alveolus with extension to the vestibule (Fig. 1). The lesion extended from the region adjacent to the right central incisor to the first molar. The maxillary lateral incisor, canine, and premolar teeth were dis-
DFT Study of Tris(bis(trimethylsilyl)methyl)lanthanum and -samarium

DFT calculations have been carried out on the compounds Ln[CH(SiR2R‘)(SiR3)]3 for Ln = La, Sm and (i) R = R‘ = Me, (ii) R = H, R‘ = Me, and (iii) R = R‘ = H. The results are compared with the X-ray structures that are available from the literature for both metals and R = R‘ = Me. The calculations correctly reproduce the experimental structural features in these complexes exhibiting the peculiar pyramidal coordination geometry. The results show significant increases in the Si−C bond lengths associated with β-Si−C agostic interactions, whereas little structural changes are found for γ-C−H agostic interactions. The latter are in fact repulsive. The simplified model system with R = H and R‘ = Me that retains one agostic methyl interaction in each alkyl ligand also correctly reproduces the essential geometrical features. The simplest model with only SiH3 groups, while also adopting a pyramidal coordination geometry, no longer accurately describes the real molecule, since the β-Si−C agostic interactions are rep...
Estrogen receptor-positive mammary tumorigenesis in TGFα transgenic mice progresses with progesterone receptor loss

We characterized the novel NRL-transforming growth factor alpha (NRL-TGFα) transgenic mouse model in which growth factor - steroid receptor interactions were explored. The NRL promoter directs transgene expression to mammary ductal and alveolar cells and is nonresponsive to estrogen manipulations in vitro and in vivo. NRL-TGFα mice acquire proliferative hyperplasias as well as cystic and solid tumors. Quantitative transcript analysis revealed a progressive decrease in estrogen receptor alpha (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR) mRNA levels with tumorigenesis. However, ER protein was evident in all lesion types and in surrounding stromal cells using immunohistochemistry. PR protein was identified in normal epithelial cells and in very few cells of small epithelial hyperplasias, but never in stromal or tumor cells. Prophylactic ovariectomy significantly delayed tumor development and decreased incidence. Finally, while heterozygous (+/−) p53 mice did not acquire mammary lesions, p53+/− mice carrying the NRL-TGFα transgene developed ER negative/PR negative undifferentiated carcinomas. These data demonstrate that unregulated TGFα expression in the mammary gland leads to oncogenesis that is dependent on ovarian steroids early in tumorigenesis. Resulting tumors resemble a clinical phenotype of ER+/PR−, and when combined with a heterozygous p53 genotype, ER−/PR−.
Stock splits and implied stock price volatility

T his study addresses the issue of stock splits, their effect on the volatility of stock prices, and the prospect of using this change in volatility to make trading profits in the market. We ask the questions: Do option prices following a stock split reflect higher stock volatilities? Can an option trader use this information to make profits in the market? Our findings show that post-split option prices do imply higher stock volatilities, but that the increase is insufficient to allow option traders to profit after considering transactions costs. Our analysis proceeds from earlier research into the price behavior of lower-priced securities. Studies of returns on these securities usually examine stocks of companies that fall into one of two areas: 1) small-capitalization companies whose stocks are lowpriced and generally riskier than higher-priced stocks, and 2) companies whose stocks are lower-priced because the company has recently had a stock split. Studies in the first group' generally show that returns are greater for the lower-priced stocks, even after adjusting for the higher levels of risk of lower-priced stocks. Studies falling into the second group' generally conclude that the volatility of stock returns (risk) appears to increase after the split, although there is no significant change in the level of stock returns after a split. In their study of the possibility of profits from stock splits, Reilly and Drzycimski [14] found that the
Void detection in foam with knit lines using THz pulse interrogation

We model the electromagnetic interrogation of a polyurethane foam using the transverse electric (TE) mode of the two-dimensional (2D) Maxwell's equations reduced to the wave equation for a fixed frequency in the terahertz (THz) regime. The foam block target contains knit lines which are modeled by modifying the speed of propagation, i.e., by altering the index of refraction. We describe our efforts to estimate the dielectric constant in the knit lines, as well as in the surrounding foam, by use of the classical Clausius-Mossotti equation, assuming only a change in density. We compare the numerical simulations accounting for knit lines to those in which knit lines are neglected, each in the context of modeling reflections of plane waves in foam with voids.
Drama and tragedy in contemporary folk music: Nanci Griffith's “it's a hard life wherever you go”

Traditional folk artists opposing social injustice and discrimination advocate change through optimism and hope. Nanci Griffith's contemporary folk song, “It's a Hard Life Wherever You Go,” demonstrates a change in the generally accepted folk artist lyrical message by casting her lyrics in a tragic frame while sustaining the folk tradition in terms of musical score. Griffith enacts the role of helpless observer, who documents injustice by observing instances of political, racial, and societal conflict, while maintaining traditional folk music norms regarding musical style.
New advances in the treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia.

Objecive: Describe the treatment options of newly diagnosed and relapsed APL. Induction: The fusion PML/RAR gene provided the rationale for using all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) as differentiation therapy. The standard approach is antracycline + ATRA and no ARA-C. Consolidation: Anthracycline based chemotherapy, no high dose ARA-C and perhaps no ARA-C. Maintenance seems to be important. Cure with ATRA + chemotherapy increased to 75% from 35% with chemotherapy alone. Poor prognosis factors: WBC >10,000, age >55, platelets <40,000 and CD 56 expression. Achieving and maintaining a molecular remission (MCR) i.e. RT-PCR (−) for PML/RARa expression, is the best predictor for cure. Conversion to PCR (+) will eventually result in relapse. PCR monitoring in the first 2 years and intervention during molecular relapse would be safer than treatment in clinical relapse. Molecular relapses have been treated successfully by ATRA plus BMT. Arsenic trioxide (ATO) or gentuzumab (mylotarg) are also being studied. Relapse (induction): Patients after ATRA in first CR are less likely to respond to ATRA reinduction regardless of the time off ATRA and rarely achieve a molecular remission. Single-agent ATO induced in 52 relapsed patients CR of 87% (75% MCR) with low toxicity and no treatment related deaths (U.S. pivotal trial), confirmed in a NCI trial. Induction of relapsing patients with single agent ATO is preferable than ATRA + chemotherapy because the high molecular remission and lower toxicity. Relapse (Post remission): No standard approach and the role of chemotherapy is unknown. ATO alone: in the pivotal trial, 9/21 patients had long remissions without other therapy. BMT: Not indicated in 1st MCR. In young patients auto BMT with PCR (−) harvests could be done in subsequent CR. Allo BMT has a higher death rate without overall better results. In the pivotal trial 12 patients were transplanted in CR after ATO alone (9 allo BMT) and 11 still without disease. Possibly allo BMT is safer after a less toxic ATO induction. Other: ATO plus ATRA +/− AntiCD33 conjugated with toxin (gentuzumab) or131I; Synthetic retinoid (Am80); histone deacetylase inhibitors; oral tetra-arsenic tetrasulfide and various combinations.
Linear spatial interpolation: Analysis with an application to San Joaquin Valley

The properties of linear spatial interpolators of single realizations and trend components of regionalized variables are examined in this work. In the case of the single realization estimator explicit and exact expressions for the weighting vector and the variances of estimator and estimation error were obtained from a closed-form expression for the inverse of the Lagrangian matrix. The properties of the trend estimator followed directly from the Gauss-Markoff theorem. It was shown that the single realization estimator can be decomposed into two mutually orthogonal random functions of the data, one of which is the trend estimator. The implementation of liear spatial estimation was illustrated with three different methods, i.e., full information maximum likelihood (FIML), restricted maximum likelihood (RML), and Rao's minimum norm invariant quadratic unbiased estimation (MINQUE) for the single realization case and via generalized least squares (GLS) for the trend. The case study involved large correlation length-scale in the covariance of specific yield producing a nested covariance structure that was nearly positive semidefinite. The sensitivity of model parameters, i.e., drift and variance components (local and structured) to the correlation length-scale, choice of covariance model (i.e., exponential and spherical), and estimation method was examined. the same type of sensitivity analysis was conducted for the spatial interpolators. It is interesting that for this case study, characterized by a large correlation length-scale of about 50 mi (80 km), both parameter estimates and linear spatial interpolators were rather insensitive to the choice of covariance model and estimation method within the range of credible values obtained for the correlation length-scale, i.e., 40–60 mi (64–96 km), with alternative estimates falling within ±5% of each other.
No Somos La Migra: The Challenges of Research Among Stationary Mexican Farmworkers in the Northeastern United States

Engaging migrant farm workers in outreach, whether for social services or as participants in research projects, is particularly difficult. As a transient, semi-skilled, and largely undocumented workforce, migrant workers are understandably reluctant to engage with anyone whom they feel may jeopardize their already precarious situation. However, engaging with non-migrant farm workers presents its own unique challenges as well.
Determination of cobalt in urine by gas chromatography—mass spectrometry employing nickel as an internal standard

Abstract A gas chromatographic—mass spectrometric method for the determination of cobalt in biological materials employing stable enriched 62Ni as an internal standard and using lithium bis(trifluoroethyl)dithiocarbamate as a chelating agent is described. The method involves the addition of a known amount (1 μg) of 62Ni to the sample, the formation of the chelate and the determination by selected-ion monitoring of the m/z 571 574 ratio, which corresponds to 59 Co 62 Ni . No appreciable memory effect was observed, and an acceptable dynamic range of 100 was found. There was good agreement between the cobalt concentration values determined by gas chromatography—mass spectrometry and electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry. The present method has high sensitivity and can be used for the quantitation of cobalt at concentrations as low as 1 μg/l. The use of enriched 62Ni circumvents the problem caused by endogenous nickel and simultaneously provides data on the nickel concentration in the biological sample without any additional experimental effort.
Optimizing library content for mobile phones

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present evidence that academic and school libraries can serve users by offering readings in phone‐compatible files, and describe how to use readily available tools to cleanly and effectively format various types of documents for mobile devices.Design/methodology/approach – A survey was made of a variety of utilities for preparing texts to accommodate mobile reading and the products were tested on several types of phones – from the least sophisticated to popular smartphones.Findings – Cell phones are effective, convenient appliances for use as text readers. Though US subscribers have been slower than others to embrace their phones as readers, a fast‐growing segment of users is doing so. Course materials traditionally offered as reserves can easily be made available to students on a device that is familiar and comfortable.Practical implications – Furnishing content in relevant formats increases user convenience and positions libraries to respond to technological cha...