cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Asynchronous stereo vision system for front-vehicle detection

This study uses two low-cost and compact CMOS cameras to construct an asynchronous binocular system and proposes an effective real-time front-vehicle detection algorithm with the binocular system. The proposed vehicle detection algorithm uses the edge information to detect the region of each front vehicle, and then computes the disparities of the front vehicles by an adaptive search method. According to the disparity values, the relative distances between the front and the host vehicles can be computed. The proposed algorithm of the manuscript conquers the asynchronous exposure problem and cost issue of a binocular system. Experimental results show that the proposed system can robustly and accurately detect obstacles or other vehicles in real time under different illumination and road conditions.
Subgrid-Scale Condensation in Models of Nonprecipitating Clouds

Abstract One of the shortcomings of present condensation schemes is the assumption that a computational grid volume is either entirely saturated or entirely unsaturated, which is a crude approximation in some instances even with a relatively fine mesh. The concept of a statistical distribution of the points where condensation occurs inside a given grid volume is discussed and results are presented for diagnosing both the fraction of the grid volume containing saturated air and the liquid water content when that fraction is less than unity. An abbreviated procedure is tested in a boundary layer model of 50 m mesh for a case of nonprecipitating tropical moist convection. Two main effects upon the simulated turbulent field are found: first, the cloud activity measured by the total liquid water content or by the vertical moisture transport is increased and extends farther up, at the expense of subcloud layer moisture; second, the temporal variations within the model domain of the calculated turbulent properti...
SOD prevents damage and attenuates eicosanoid release in a rabbit model of necrotizing enterocolitis

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) was produced in anesthetized rabbits by transmural injection of intestinal loops with an acidified solution of casein and calcium gluconate, mimicking the luminal milieu of afflicted neonates. Intravenous infusion of superoxide dismutase (SOD) 15 min after NEC induction prevented intestinal damage. In ex vivo perfused intestinal loops, we determined the sites of eicosanoid release and their contribution to the vascular effects of N-formyl-methionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP) and platelet-activating factor (PAF) in damaged and SOD-salvaged intestine. The vascular effluent was the primary site of stimulated eicosanoid release. The vascular responses to fMLP (vasoconstriction) and PAF (vasodilation) were not altered by SOD, although vascular resistance was higher in the SOD group. SOD treatment attenuated 1) transmural fluid shifts in ex vivo perfused intestinal preparations, an index of vascular permeability, 2) fMLP-induced prostaglandin E2, 6-ketoprostaglandin F1 alpha (6-keto-PGF1 alpha), and leukotriene B4 (LTB4) release, and 3) PAF-induced release of 6-keto-PGF1 alpha and LTB4. Stimulated thromboxane B2 release was not altered by SOD. Thus NEC can be established by a luminal insult that causes local generation of free radicals and exaggerated release of prostaglandins and leukotrienes.
Propagating ranking functions on a graph: algorithms and applications

Learning to rank is an emerging learning task that opens up a diverse set of applications. However, most existing work focuses on learning a single ranking function whilst in many real world applications, there can be many ranking functions to fulfill various retrieval tasks on the same data set. How to train many ranking functions is challenging due to the limited availability of training data which is further compounded when plentiful training data is available for a small subset of the ranking functions. This is particularly true in settings, such as personalized ranking/retrieval, where each person requires a unique ranking function according to their preference, but only the functions of the persons who provide sufficient ratings (of objects, such as movies and music) can be well trained. To address this, we propose to construct a graph where each node corresponds to a retrieval task, and then propagate ranking functions on the graph. We illustrate the usefulness of the idea of propagating ranking functions and our method by exploring two real world applications.
Performance of Complex Tasks under Different Levels of Illumination: Part I—Needle Probe Task

This is the first in a series of research reports that describe the relationship between illumination level and the performance of complex tasks having selected realistic components. The task described in this article required subjects to insert a fine tipped probe into the eye-holes of ten needles in rapid succession. Results of the needle probe task and of different tasks reported by other investigators are compared.
The in vitro stability of rat liver glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase as a function of diet.

AbstractRat liver glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) activity was studied in starvedrefed rats given diets containing three levels of fat (35%, high-fat; 5%, low-fat; 0%, fat-free). Elution characteristics from DEAE-cellulose, Km for glucose-6-phosphate, pH optimum, and molecular weight appeared to be similar. During storage or heat denaturation, stability apparently was lowest of G6PD of livers from rats refed the high-fat diet. Heat stability was enhanced by the addition of NADP, but some differences due to diet persisted. Titration of a constant amount of enzyme with heating gave inconsistent results: in two of four experiments rats refed the high-fat diet had an equivalence point twice that of rats refed the fat-free diet. This difference disappeared if the antibody titration was carried out in the cold. The diet-induced instability of the G6PD, as measured in vitro, was reversible by changing the diet of the rats.
Compatibility of BaTiO3 and SrTiO3 with Shape Memory Alloy TiNi

Thin film layers of shape memory alloys and ferroelectric ceramics can produce a family of ‘smart’ heterostructures capable of performing both sensing and actuating functions. The compatibility of sol-gel processed BaTiO 3 (BTO) and SrTiO 3 (STO) thin films with shape memory effect TiNi substrates were investigated. Important issues in the synthesis of these active structures are the ability to generate the appropriate crystalline phases of each material while producing defect-free homogeneous high quality films.
Molecular Dynamics Simulations of the Surface Reconstructions of Pt(557) and Au(557) under Exposure to CO

The mechanism and dynamics of surface reconstructions of Pt(557) and Au(557) exposed to various coverages of carbon monoxide (CO) were investigated using molecular dynamics simulations. Metal–CO interactions were parametrized from experimental data and plane-wave density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The large difference in binding strengths of the Pt–CO and Au–CO interactions was found to play a significant role in step-edge stability and adatom diffusion constants. Various mechanisms for CO-mediated step wandering and step doubling were investigated on the Pt(557) surface. We find that the energetics of CO adsorbed to the surface can explain the step-doubling reconstruction observed on Pt(557) and the lack of such a reconstruction on the Au(557) surface. However, more complicated reconstructions into triangular clusters that have been seen in recent experiments were not observed in these simulations.
Parsing the Utility of CT and MRI in the Subaxial Cervical Spine Injury Classification (SLIC) System: Is CT SLIC Enough?

OBJECTIVE. The aim of our blinded retrospective study was to evaluate the diagnostic performance of the Subaxial Cervical Spine Injury Classification (SLIC) System in predicting the need for surgical intervention after subaxial cervical spine injury; SLIC scores were determined using CT alone or both CT and MRI. MATERIALS AND METHODS. Patients were included if they had injuries that were subaxial (C3–C7), if they had undergone CT and MRI within 48 hours of admission, if they were either treated surgically or had sufficient clinical documentation describing nonsurgical management (halo device or hard collar), and if the SLIC neurologic score could be determined from a documented neurologic examination. Two hundred two consecutive patients (139 surgical patients and 63 nonsurgical control subjects) from January 2010 through December 2013 met all criteria and were included in the study. Additionally, 40 patients were randomly selected from this group for the purpose of determining interrater agreement. Initi...
Interleukin-1 Receptor Antagonist and Interleukin-1β Gene Polymorphisms in Children with Sepsis

Objective To explore the association between the interleukin-1receptor antagonist(IL-1Ra)and interleukin-1β(IL-1β)gene polymorphisms and sepsis susceptibility in children. Methods The VNTR polymorphism of IL-1Ra gene and polymorphic distribution of exon 5of IL-1βgene were examined in 30sepsis children and 40healthy children using PCR and RFLP analysis.Results Compared with healthy children,A2allele frequency and A1/A2genotype distribution of IL-1Ra significantly decreased in sepsis children(P0.05or P0.01).There were no significant differences in TapⅠallele frequency and genotype distribution of exon 5of IL-1βgene between the two groups(P0.05).Conclusion IL-1Ra A2allele may have a protective effect on sepsis susceptibility in children.
Analysis of monitoring results of heavy metals and harmful elements in food in Dazhou during 2010- 2012

Objective To investigate the contamination situation of heavy metals and other harmful elements in food of Dazhou. Methods According to the requirements of"Food safety risk monitoring plan of Sichuan",various kinds of food were collected to detect the contents of some metals,such as lead,cadmium,mercury,aluminum and arsenic. All the food were sold at farmers' markets,supermarkets and convenient service points of Dazhou city,suburbs and countries. Results Lead in 337 food samples of 12 kinds,cadmium in 308 samples of 9 kinds and mercury in 288 samples of 9 kinds were monitored during 2010-2012. The total detection rates were 89. 02%,81. 49% and 81. 60%,and the total qualified rates were 86. 65%,95. 58% and 94. 50% respectively. As result analysis,lead showed higher detection rate but lower qualified rate when compared with cadmium and mercury. The highest content of lead,cadmium and mercury existed in chips( 2. 0050 mg / kg),pig kidney( 0. 8111 mg/kg) and fresh edible fungus( 0. 0649 mg/kg) respectively. The qualified rates of lead in meat,fresh vegetables and milk were all under 80%. All the chips and chicken liver samples were found exceeding lead content. The detection rate of aluminum in 76 food samples of 6 kinds was 100% and the qualified rate was 74. 46%. The hightest aluminum content was from deep- fried dough sticks,which was 270. 77 mg / kg and over the national limit. Arsenic content was analyzed in 35 samples of 2 kinds,the detection rate was 40% and all of these showed qualified content. Conclusion The contamination of heavy metals and other harmful elements is slight in Dazhou,but lead and aluminum pollution are serious. Lead in chips and fish milk,cadmium in pig kidney,mercury in fresh edible fungus and aluminum in deep- fried dough sticks were especially obvious. The detection and supervision should be further strengthened on food,especially in meat and meat products,cereals and derived products,fresh vegetables and fresh edible fungus,to reduce heavy metals contamination.
Preventing Mental Disorders in the Minority Community

Studies in community mental health have noted a disproportionate incidence of mental illness in minority populations. However, it is impossible to document its true extent without a proper data base. Most of our knowledge is based on reports from institutions and social service agencies--coroner's offices, police departments, and various treatment programs. The resulting distortion of the data makes it difficult to develop prevention policies and programs. Further, the politics incurred in implementing programs in minority communities suggest that there are political barriers to providing such services. This paper examines these critical political-social factors.
Outcomes following Thulium vapoenucleation of large prostates

Introduction: Thulium laser VapoEnucleation of the prostate (ThuVEP) is an evolving surgical technique for BPH. Most studies have focused on outcomes in small to medium sized prostates and have originated from Europe and Asia. We sought to describe our experience with ThuVEP for very large prostates in a North American cohort. Materials and Methods: From December 2010 to October 2014, 25 men underwent ThuVEP using the CyberTM® (Quantastem, Italy) thulium laser, all with prostate volume >75mL. Data collected included patient demographics, comorbidities, intraoperative parameters, complications, and post-operative outcomes including maximum flow rate (Qmax), post-void residual (PVR), International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), and quality of life score (QoL) in one year of follow-up. Statistical analysis was done using Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Results: At baseline, mean age was 70±9 years and prostate size was 163±62g. Most patients (84%) were in retention and 10 (40%) patients were on anticoagulation. Seven (28%) patients went home the day of surgery (mean hospital stay: 1.2±1.2d). There were 2 intraoperative complications (8%), both cystotomies related to morcellation. Nine patients (36%) experienced a complication, all within 30 days. There were no Clavien ≥III complications. Significant improvements were seen in Qmax, PVR, IPSS, and QoL score at each time interval to 12-months following surgery (all p<0.05). Of 21 patients initially in retention, all were voiding at last follow-up. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that ThuVEP is an effective treatment for BPH in patients with large prostates with sustained results for one year.
Dim Light Melatonin Onset and Affect in Adolescents With an Evening Circadian Preference

Abstract Purpose A shift toward an evening circadian preference and the onset of mood problems often occur during adolescence. Although these changes are linked to poorer outcomes, few studies have considered how positive and negative affect are related to the circadian rhythm during adolescence. This study examined the relationship between evening and morning affect ratings and dim light melatonin onset (DLMO), a measure of endogenous circadian rhythm. Age and sex were tested as moderators. Methods This study is based on a subset of 163 (94 female, age = 14.7) adolescents with an evening circadian preference from a National Institute of Child Health and Human Development–funded study. Participants provided saliva for melatonin analysis and rated evening and morning affect. Results Higher evening negative affect was related to a later DLMO. Evening positive affect was not significantly related to DLMO timing. Age but not sex was a significant moderator such that higher negative and lower positive affect were related to a later DLMO for 10- to 13-year-olds, whereas higher positive affect was related to a later DLMO for 17- to 18-year-olds. DLMO was not significantly related to morning affect ratings. Conclusions There is evidence that higher negative and lower positive affect may be related to the shift toward an evening circadian preference observed in adolescents, particularly for younger adolescents.
Automation, Artificial Intelligence, and the God/Useless Divide

Automation, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology have become topics of increasing interest in both academia as well as in popular media. The goal of this article is to establish which issues are the most pressing, and what are the underlying causes of the rise of robots. I demonstrate that fears of automation are well supported by current trends of automation as well as the inherent tendency within a capitalist system to automate at the expense of workers and working wages. Additionally, I point to what appears to be a potential evolutionary divide between what Yuval Noah Harari calls the “god” class and the “useless” class. Finally, I discuss how the new role of information as the world’s most valued commodity can either exacerbate this coming divide or liberate society. I present the case that in order to diminish the negative effects we must move beyond the present capitalist economic system, towards one in which economic democracy and the free flow of information thrives.
Seed Yield Prediction Models of Four Common Moist-Soil Plant Species in Texas

Seed production by moist-soil plant species often varies within and among managed wetlands and on larger landscapes. Quantifying seed production of moist-soil plants can be used to evaluate wetland management strategies and estimate wetland energetic carrying capacity, specifically for waterfowl. In the past, direct estimation techniques were used, but due to excessive personnel and time costs, other indirect methods have been developed. Because indirect seed yield models do not exist for moist-soil plant species in east-central or coastal Texas, we developed direct and indirect methods to model seed production on regional managed wetlands. In September 2004 and 2005, we collected Echinochloa crusgalli (barnyard grass), E. walterii (wild millet), E. colona (jungle rice), and Oryza sativa (cultivated rice) for phytomorphological measurements and seed yield modeling. Initial simple linear and point of origin regression analyses demonstrate strong relationships ( P < 0.001) among phytomorphological and dot grid methods in predicting seed production for all four species. These models should help regional wetland managers evaluate moist-soil management success and create models for seed production for other moist-soil plants in this region.
Aqueous organic geochemistry at high temperature/high pressure.

The discovery in 1977 of active hydrothermal venting and associated mineralization at the seafloor spreading center of the Galapagos (Corliss et al., 1979) initiated extensive surveys of global ridge-crests. Hydrothermal systems associated with ocean spreading centers are now recognized as a relatively common phenomenon and are thus one of the most actively researched topics in geology, biology and geochemistry. The morphology, mineralization, and fluid chemistry of the active systems in spreading centers has been reviewed (e.g. Barrett and Jambor, 1988; Rona, 1988; Rona et al., 1983; Von Damm, 1990) and related to ancient deposits (e.g. Franklin et al., 1981; Scott, 1985). Other non-rift areas with analogous hydrothermal systems are tectonically active subduction zones, fracture zones, and back-arc basins. The active seafloor systems are a major niche for fauna carrying out chemosynthetic biochemistry. This and the characterization of new species is now a main topic in biology (e.g. Childress, 1988; Grassie, 1985; Jones, 1985; Tunnicliffe, 1991). The geochemistry of vent fluids, interstitial fluids in sediments, and organic matter associated with hydrothermal systems are also a major research effort (e.g. Edmond and Von Damm, 1983; Gieskes et al., 1982a,b, 1988; Simoneit, 1990; Simoneit et al., 1984; Von Damm, 1990).
Actions of angiotensin II on the renal microvasculature

Angiotensin II (AngII) exerts powerful effects on the renal microcirculation to influence a variety of functions. This review summarizes some of the major findings over the past 10 years as they elucidate the multiple roles that AngII plays in the regulation of whole kidney blood flow, perfusion of cortical and medullary regions, and renal autoregulation. Topics of discussion include localization of AngII receptor types and subtypes in the renal vasculature, action of AngII on vascular smooth muscle cells of the afferent and efferent arterioles, and intracellular signaling pathways. Within the microvasculature, AngII causes potent constriction in both the afferent and efferent arterioles, with responses modulated by paracrine and autocrine factors of endothelial and macula densa origins. With regard to renal autoregulatory mechanisms consisting of the myogenic response and the tubuloglomerular feedback mechanism, the myogenic response appears to operate independent of the renin-angiotensin system. On the other hand, tubuloglomerular feedback activity is often directly proportional to concentrations of AngII, especially in high renin states. Of the two types defined to date, the AT1 is the predominant receptor in the adult rat kidney mediating the vascular effects of AngII. AT2 receptor is highly expressed in the fetal kidney and is important for renal development, but is very weakly expressed in adult animals. Nevertheless, AT2 receptors may mediate vasodilation under certain conditions. The signaling transduction pathways for AT1 receptors include Gq/11-protein and protein kinase C activation. AngII causes constriction of the afferent arteriole primarily by stimulation of calcium entry via voltage-sensitive, L-type channels, whereas AngII effects on the efferent arteriole are due to calcium release from intracellular stores and calcium entry through voltage-independent calcium entry channels. Future experiments should contribute to a more in-depth understanding of the modulation of AngII effects by other vasoactive agents and interactions between different second-messenger signaling pathways in health and disease.
The influence of gender on the evaluation of anorexia nervosa.

A stereotype exists that anorexia nervosa (AN) is a "female" disorder. As a result, men with AN may face harsher stigmatization from their peers or go undiagnosed. The shifting standards model provides a framework to explore how gender stereotypes impact perceptions of AN. Participants (N = 438) were given a vignette of a person with symptoms of AN labeled as either male or female. Assessments were experimentally manipulated according to the shifting standards perspective: participants were asked if they were concerned (or convinced) that the target had AN and then indicated the severity of behavioral symptoms (calorie reduction, pounds lost per week, and hours of exercise) needed to make them concerned (or convinced) of AN. Participants were more likely to state that the male target had AN compared to the female target (p = .036) whereas women were more likely to believe an individual had AN than men, regardless of the target gender (p < .001). In addition, men required that the male target have more severe symptoms to assign an AN diagnosis than women (p = .005). In general, severity ratings for symptoms were quite high, indicating a normalization of unhealthy weight loss practices. These results confirm that gender affects the perception of AN, though they do not conform to expectations within the shifting standards model. Instead, they suggest that a male target is more readily identified as having AN than a female target with AN when exhibiting identical symptoms.
Additional Dating at Williamson-Plainview and Type Milnesand Sites in Eastern New Mexico

Luminescence dates are provided for the Williamson-Plainview and Milnesand sites in the Southern High Plains, eastern New Mexico. These supplement radiocarbon dates reported earlier. The luminescen...
Developing a Structural Perspective and Its Role in Connecting School Algebra and Abstract Algebra: A Factorization Example

One goal of school algebra is the development of students’ facility with algebraic structures. Essential to that development is a structural perspective, which we consider as having three interrelated components—(1) ability to recognize and look for elements of a given type, (2) awareness of structure, and (3) tendency to attend to and look for structure. We suggest the adoption of a structural perspective as a central theme in both school algebra and abstract algebra, and argue that focusing instruction in an abstract algebra course on developing a structural perspective could help teachers teach school algebra as a coherent whole (rather than a set of loosely related procedures). We illustrate our argument with a description of algebraically parallel structures between the set of integers and the set of polynomials, and articulate how these structures can be understood coherently through an abstract algebra lens (integral domain) and the concept of factorization. We also describe how undergraduate mathematics students engage in mathematical tasks involving factorization of integers and polynomials and make structural sense of the relationship between the set of integers and the set of polynomials in the context of factorization. Using a new categorical framework of EDUS, we propose how teacher educators can engage prospective teachers in building toward a structural perspective in the context of factorization.
Using Prosocial Schema and Beliefs about Gender Roles to Predict Alcohol Use for Engineering Majors

This project examines the relationship between prosocial schema, beliefs about gender roles, and alcohol use among first-year engineering majors. I collected two waves of survey data from first-yea...
Systematic Approach to Theme Park

In this practical research, theme park is explored and studied from systems engineering approach. Specifically, the study focused mainly on testing the following hypothesis: First, theme park is a dynamic and complex socio-technical system. Second, the world market of theme park, a supersystem composed of many socio-technical systems, follows the Power Law Distribution. Third, the global theme park market will continue to expand its total pie. And last, advent and adoption of modern technologies, such as AI and VR to various aspects of theme park's system will drive new market growth. The findings of our qualitative, analytic study indicate that all four hypotheses are accepted. Most notably, while the theme park market is mature, it is capable of new market expansion by continuously creating new demands from consumers with adopting innovative technologies for more convenient facilities and more thrilling rides. It is a good starting point to note that a prompt and wise application of up-to-date technologies to socio-technical systems with saturated demands can create new market opportunities as well as growths.
Ruxolitinib cream for the treatment of patients with alopecia areata: A 2-part, double-blind, randomized, vehicle-controlled phase 2 study

Background There are currently no treatments for alopecia areata (AA) that are universally effective or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. Oral ruxolitinib has shown efficacy in extensive AA. Ruxolitinib cream would potentially avoid systemic adverse effects. Objective To assess the efficacy and safety of 1.5% ruxolitinib cream in patients with AA who had at least 25% hair loss by Severity of Alopecia Tool score. Methods This was a 2-part study. Part A was an open-label, 24-week study of 1.5% ruxolitinib cream in patients with 25% to 99% hair loss followed by a 24-week extension period. Part B was a double-blind, vehicle-controlled, 24-week study of 1.5% ruxolitinib cream in patients with 25% to 100% hair loss, followed by a crossover to ruxolitinib cream in the vehicle group for 24 weeks and additional treatment time for the ruxolitinib cream group. Results Although Part A results suggested potential efficacy of 1.5% ruxolitinib cream, there was no significant difference in hair regrowth based on 50% improvement in Severity of Alopecia Tool scores between patients receiving 1.5% ruxolitinib cream and vehicle in part B. There were no significant safety issues with 1.5% ruxolitinib cream. Limitations Single strength of ruxolitinib cream. Conclusions The 1.5% ruxolitinib cream did not have a significant effect in patients with AA.
Teenagers, Terrorism, and Technopanic: How British Newspapers Framed Female ISIS Recruits as Victims of Social Media

In 2015, three teenage girls from London were recruited by ISIS via social media. British news discourse focused on the role of gender and technology in their recruitment. Through the lens of technological fetishism’s intersection with gendered terrorism, a discourse analysis of British newspapers revealed two dominant themes: (1) gendered terrorism through the victimization of female ISIS recruits and (2) the technological fetishism of social media focused on individualized solutions including censorship and regulation.
Warehouse Location in An Emerging Country: A Win–Win Proposition?

Warehouse solutions in emerging countries near suppliers have been adopted to achieve cost efficiency in offshore procurement. Previous academic literature ignores logistics operations costs in supply chain contracting. In this paper, we study contracting between a retailer in a developed country and a supplier in an emerging country while incorporating total landed cost (including logistics operations costs) in contracting. The retailer faces stochastic demand and stochastic lead time and determines the warehousing strategy. She can hold cycle stock and safety stock at the retail location (developed country warehousing) or allow the supplier to hold second‐tier cycle stock at a warehouse in the emerging country in addition to her holding inventory at the retail location (emerging country warehousing). We study the retailer’s optimal warehousing strategy in a centralized supply chain and a decentralized supply chain with the retailer as the Stackelberg leader. When emerging country warehousing is adopted in the decentralized supply chain, the retailer and supplier could achieve a win–win or a win–lose outcome compared to developed country warehousing. Our results show that the retailer’s warehousing strategies in the centralized and decentralized supply chains could be different. We further study the retailer’s optimal warehousing strategy under the Nash bargaining framework where the wholesale price and logistics decisions are negotiated simultaneously given the warehousing strategy. We compare this contract to that where logistics costs are excluded from contract negotiation. Our results show that by including logistics costs into contract negotiation the retailer and supplier could achieve lose–win, win–win and win–lose outcomes.
Decoupled Modeling of Three-phase TCM Inverters Utilizing Three Different Conduction-Modes for ZVS Operation

To improve the power-density of ac-dc converters with wide-bandgap devices, zero-voltage switching (ZVS) schemes have widely been widely investigated. Triangular conduction-mode (TCM) generate a reverse current which discharges a junction capacitance before a MOSFET turns on. Such a method has been extended to three-phase applications by operating the other two phase into two different conduction-modes; discontinuous conduction mode (DCM) and clamp-mode similar to a discontinuous PWM (DPWM) scheme [1]–[4]. However, the presence of a three-phase coupling and transitions of the conduction-modes along the line-cycle arise complexity in the modeling and control. In this paper, a modeling approach is presented for three-phase inverters utilizing three different conduction-modes for ZVS operation. It is revealed that the modeling and analysis for an equivalent single-phase TCM and DCM inverter can be directly extended to the three-phase case. The impact of the DCM phase can simply be calculated and compensated. Control schemes for single-phase inverters can be extended to the three-phase counterparts. The proposed modeling approach is verified by SIMPLIS simulation and an experiment with the prototype three-level three-phase TCM inverter.
Small RNA Deep Sequencing Identifies a Unique miRNA Signature Released in Serum Exosomes in a Mouse Model of Sjögren's Syndrome.

Sjogren's Syndrome (SS) is an autoimmune disease characterized by lymphocytic infiltration and loss of function of moisture-producing exocrine glands as well as systemic inflammation. SS diagnosis is cumbersome, subjective and complicated by manifestation of symptoms that overlap with those of other rheumatic and ocular diseases. Definitive diagnosis averages 4-5 years and this delay may lead to irreversible tissue damage. Thus, there is an urgent need for diagnostic biomarkers for earlier detection of SS. Extracellular vesicles called exosomes carry functional small non-coding RNAs which play a critical role in maintaining cellular homeostasis via transcriptional and translational regulation of mRNA. Alterations in levels of specific exosomal miRNAs may be predictive of disease status. Here, we have assessed serum exosomal RNA using next generation sequencing in a discovery cohort of the NOD mouse, a model of early-intermediate SS, to identify dysregulated miRNAs that may be indicative of SS. We found five miRNAs upregulated in serum exosomes of NOD mice with an adjusted p < 0.05-miRNA-127-3p, miRNA-409-3p, miRNA-410-3p, miRNA-541-5p, and miRNA-540-5p. miRNAs 127-3p and 541-5p were also statistically significantly upregulated in a validation cohort of NOD mice. Pathway analysis and existing literature indicates that differential expression of these miRNAs may dysregulate pathways involved in inflammation. Future studies will apply these findings in a human cohort to understand how they are correlated with manifestations of SS as well as understanding their functional role in systemic autoimmunity specific to SS.
Transcriptome dataset for RNA-seq analysis of axolotl embryonic oropharyngeal endoderm explants.

Abstract Animal nutrition and toxin deterrence rely on the ability to taste, which occurs through columnar taste cells clustered within taste buds. Taste buds in mammals are located within specialized tissues, called papillae. However, taste buds in fish and amphibians, such as axolotls (Ambystoma mexicanum), are not housed in papillae, rather they are embedded within the pharyngeal epithelium. This simplified tissue level organization, along with the ability of cultured oropharyngeal explants from early embryos to produce taste buds on the same time-line as embryos, make the axolotl an excellent model to identify molecules specifically involved in taste bud cell differentiation. We performed de novo transcriptomic analysis on RNA sequences from three different stages of oropharyngeal explants: stages 37/38, 39, and 41. RNA-seq data from 17 total samples representing these stages were pooled to generate a de novo assembly of the transcriptome using a Trinity pipeline. From 27.9Gb of raw sequences, we identified 21,244 transcripts. To our knowledge, this is the first published assembly of axolotl oropharyngeal endoderm explants. This data and transcriptome assembly relate to the research article “Transcriptome Analysis of Axolotl Oropharyngeal Explants During Taste Bud Differentiation Stages” (Kohli et al. 2020). This RNA-seq data and transcriptome assembly provide information on genes expressed in the oropharyngeal endoderm and will be valuable in the identification of taste bud development genes.
Improving Indoor Air Quality for Poor Families: A Controlled Experiment in Bangladesh

The World Health Organization's 2004 Global and Regional Burden of Disease Report estimates that acute respiratory infections from indoor air pollution (pollution from burning wood, animal dung, and other bio-fuels) kill a million children annually in developing countries, inflicting a particularly heavy toll on poor families in South Asia and Africa. This paper reports on an experiment that studied the use of construction materials, space configurations, cooking locations, and household ventilation practices (use of doors and windows) as potentially-important determinants of indoor air pollution. Results from controlled experiments in Bangladesh are analyzed to test whether changes in these determinants can have significant effects on indoor air pollution. Analysis of the data shows, for example, that pollution from the cooking area diffuses into living spaces rapidly and completely. Furthermore, it is important to factor in the interaction between outdoor and indoor air pollution. Among fuels, seasonal conditions seem to affect the relative severity of pollution from wood, dung, and other biomass fuels. However, there is no ambiguity about their collective impact. All are far dirtier than clean fuels. The analysis concludes that if cooking with clean fuels is not possible, then building the kitchen with porous construction material and providing proper ventilation in cooking areas will yield a better indoor health environment.
False Myths and Indigenous Entrepreneurial Strategies

Abstract This paper discusses the theme of indigenous entrepreneurship by exploring some false assumptions repeated not only in the popular press, but also by many academics and policy makers, related to the purported perspective of Native American populations regarding property rights, entrepreneurial behavior, and the productive use of environmental resources. We argue that these historical distortions and myths have engendered the development of misdirected public policies—in particular, the emphasis on communal land use introduced with the reservation system—that prevent these populations from exploring the full potential of entrepreneurial initiatives to overcome the conditions of poverty, unemployment, and low economic growth.
Robotic Decompression of Celiac Axis for Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome

Median arcuate ligament syndrome (MALS), also called celiac artery (CA) compression syndrome or Dunbar syndrome, is a rare clinical condition that involves compression of the celiac artery by median arcuate ligament at its origin. It is more common in young females and presents with weight loss, postprandial colicky pain, and nausea. It is a diagnosis of exclusion. Workup includes computed tomography (CT) with contrast, dynamic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and duplex scan. Imaging usually reveals narrowing of the celiac artery due to compression and downward angulation, leading to “fishhook” appearance. Duplex scan shows increased pressure in the celiac axis. Incising the median arcuate leads to symptomatic relief. Robotic approach provides a unique opportunity for meticulous dissection and precise incision of the ligament with faster recovery.
Peduncular hallucinosis after a thalamic stroke.

Peduncular hallucinosis is a rare form of hallucinations consisting of vivid and nonthreatening colourful visual hallucinations. It was first described by French neurologist Jean Lhermitte in 1922. It sometimes includes distorted images of animals and people. Peduncular hallucinosis has been described after vascular and infective lesions of the mesencephalon and thalamus. We present a case of peduncular hallucinosis after a right thalamic infarction. This is a case of a 75-year-old Caucasian man with a previous medical history of hypertension and hyperlipidaemia who presented as a transfer from an outside hospital with transient left facial palsy, upper and lower extremity weakness. His symptoms resolved on arrival. CTA head and neck revealed focal filling defect in the basilar artery and a right posterior cerebral artery (PCA) occlusion at its origin. MRI brain without contrast revealed a right thalamic infarct. The patient had vivid hallucinations including his wife sleeping on his hospital bed, seeing his favourite book on the table while he had left it at home, seeing his dogs and a TV show on his room television while it was off. He was easily redirectable, and the hallucinations resolved over 2 days without pharmacological intervention. In cases of thalamic, midbrain or peduncular infarctions, physicians should be cognizant of the possibility of peduncular hallucinosis and inquire about hallucinations. New onset hallucinations in a patient with no prior psychiatric history presenting with concerns for stroke should prompt physicians to strongly consider peduncular hallucinosis.
Treatment of Granulomatous Mastitis: Is There a Role for Antibiotics?

Objective To perform a retrospective review of the clinical characteristics, microbiological data, and clinical outcomes in patients with granulomatous mastitis (GM) who were treated at our institution with a unique strategy of prolonged antibiotic therapy as the primary treatment modality. Materials and methods A retrospective case series was performed on patients (n = 42) with GM seen at the breast specialty clinic of our institution between the years 2004 and 2014. Patients were primarily treated with lipophilic antibiotics, and steroids and surgery were reserved for refractory cases. Results Bacteria were identified in 34 samples from 22/42 patients (52.3%). Diphtheroids (presumptive Corynebacterium spp.) were most commonly identified, followed by Corynebacterium spp. and Propionibacterium acnes (now Cutibacterium acnes). Antibiotics were our preferred first-line medical therapy and were used in 33/36 (91.7%) patients. The mean duration of antibiotic therapy was 7.0±4.5 months. Clarithromycin was our antibiotic of choice and was the initial antibiotic used in 15 of the 33 patients (45.5%) treated with antibiotics. Eleven patients required adjunctive therapy with prednisone. The mean duration of steroid therapy was 4.3±2.5 months. Surgery for therapeutic purposes included incision and drainage in seven patients, fine needle aspiration in eight patients, and excision of the fistulous tract in one patient. No patients had large-volume excisions. The average time from the first breast clinic visit to clinical resolution was 8.0±4.6 months. Conclusion GM may be the result of a bacterial process that induces a unique form of inflammatory response. Clinicians should consider special requests to microbiology laboratories to attempt to isolate Corynebacterium spp. in the evaluation of samples sent to the laboratory for analysis. An extended course of a lipophilic antibiotic is a largely unexplored but potentially effective treatment option with low associated morbidity. More research is needed in this area.
How Does Collegiality Survive Managerially Led Universities? Evidence from a European Survey.

ABSTRACTToday's universities are, accordingly to Clark's entrepreneurial model, sustained by managerialism, whereas collegialism may remain in contrast or work in a different way. More recent literature suggests the clash such as the potential for coexistence between managerialism and collegialism. The study analyses data from a survey of 26 universities in 8 European countries, focusing on middle managers (MMs). The results show that at the level of the individual institutions, there are notable positive correlations between the presence of collegial and of managerial cultures. Multilevel regressions at institutional level are analysed, to ‘predict’ collegiality in light of the universities' managerial culture and other factors affecting organizational change: accountability; distribution of discretional power; funding; impact of quality assurance (QA) and evaluation. The results illustrate that in more managerial universities, collegial culture increases above all when MMs believe that distance-steering...
Quiescent-phase evolution of a surge-type glacier: Black Rapids Glacier, Alaska, U.S.A.

Black Rapids Glacier, a surge-type glacier in the Alaska Range, most recently surged in 1936–37 and is currently in its quiescent phase. Mass balance, ice velocity and thickness change have been measured at three to ten sites from 1972 to 1994. The annual speed has undergone cyclical fluctuations of as much as 45% about the mean speed. Ice thickness and surface slope did not change enough to cause the speed fluctuations through changes in ice deformation, which indicates that they are being drinven by changes in basal motion. The behavior of Black Rapids Glacier during this quiescent phase is significantly different from that of Variegated Glacier, another well-studied surge-type glacier in Alaska. The present medial-moraine configuration of Black Rapids Glacier indicates that a surge could occur at any time. However, ice velocity data indicate that the next surge may not be imminent. We belive that there is little chance that the next surge will cross and dam the Delta River.
Revitalizing the Estate Tax: Five Easy Pieces

In a previous article, we argued that contrary to the state of the law over 35 years ago — when George Cooper wrote his seminal article on the estate tax (A Voluntary Tax? New Perspectives on Sophisticated Estate Tax Avoidance, 77 Colum. L. Rev. 161 (1977)) — taxpayers today generally ‘‘can reduce the value of assets subject to transfer tax in many instances only if they are willing to assume the risk that the reduction may be economically real and reduce the actual value of assets transferred to heirs or, alternatively, in narrow situations if they are willing to incur some tax risk.’’ (The Estate Tax Non-Gap: Why Repeal a Voluntary Tax?, 20 Stan. L. & Pol’y Rev. 153 (2009)) In another article, we documented the dramatic increase in income and wealth inequality over the past 30 years and the accompanying adverse social consequences and long-term negative effect on economic growth. (Occupy the Tax Code: Using the Estate Tax to Reduce Inequality and Spur Economic Growth, 40 Pepp. L. Rev. 1255 (2013)) We argued that tax policy historically has played an important role in reducing inequality and that the estate tax is a particularly apt reform vehicle in light of the role of inherited assets among the very rich and the adverse economic effects of that inherited wealth. In this article, we advance five estate and gift tax reform proposals that would generate needed revenue, reduce inequality, and contribute to economic growth: (1) disallow minority discounts when the transferred asset or business is controlled by family before and after the transfer; (2) maintain parity between the unified credit exemption amounts for the estate and gift taxes; (3) reduce the wealth transfer tax exemptions to $3.5 million, increase the maximum tax rate to 45 percent, and limit the generation-skipping transfer tax (GSST) exemption period to 50 years; (4) restrict the ability for gifts made in trust to qualify for the gift tax annual exclusion; and (5) impose a lifetime cap on the amount that can be contributed to a grantor retained annuity trust (GRAT).This article was presented on January 17 at a symposium in Malibu, California cosponsored by Pepperdine University School of Law and Tax Analysts. Twenty of the nation’s leading tax academics, practitioners, and journalists gathered to discuss the prospects for tax reform as it is affected by two crises facing Washington: dangerously misaligned spending and tax policies, resulting in a crippling $17.4 trillion national debt; and the IRS’s alleged targeting of conservative political organizations. A video recording of the symposium is available online.
Methamphetamine use in trauma patients : A population-based study

Abstract Background: There are indications that methamphetamine production and illicit use are increasing. We investigated the epidemiology of methamphetamine use in trauma patients in an area of heavy methamphetamine prevalence. Study Design: This was a retrospective population-based review. We reviewed toxicology and alcohol test results in trauma patients admitted to the University of California, Davis, between 1989 and 1994 to the only trauma center serving a population of 1.1 million. Results: Positive methamphetamine rates nearly doubled between 1989 (7.4%) and 1994 (13.4%), compared with a minimal increase in cocaine rates (5.8% to 6.2%) and a decrease in blood alcohol rates (43% to 35%). Methamphetamine-positive patients were most likely to be Caucasian or Hispanic; cocaine-positive patients were most likely to be African American. Methamphetamine-positive patients were most commonly injured in motor vehicle collisions or motorcycle collisions; cocaine-positive patients were most commonly injured by assaults, gunshot wounds, or stab wounds. Cocaine positivity and alcohol positivity predicted a decreased need for emergency surgery and cocaine positivity predicted a decreased need for admission to the ICU. Conclusions: Methamphetamine use in trauma patients increased markedly in our region between 1989 and 1994, alcohol rates decreased, and cocaine rates remained unchanged. Methamphetamine-positive patients had mechanisms of injury similar to those of alcohol-positive patients, so injury prevention strategies for methamphetamine should be patterned after strategies designed for alcohol.