cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An artificial neural network model for predicting joint performance in ultrasonic welding of composites

Abstract Ultrasonic welding is a robust and cost-effective joining method. It can be applied to joining of metals, polymers and composites. Several approaches have been used in the identification of the relationships between input parameters of the ultrasonic welding (e.g., welding energy, time) and the joint strength, including experimental methods and finite element based prediction. Both these two methods are accurate but require long lead time for model development. The empirically identified relationships may be very complex and the accuracy of prediction is sensitive to the variations of welding conditions. Hence, a more robust and intelligent method is needed for predicting the joint strength. In this paper, an artificial neural network (ANN) method is proposed for predicting the joint strength in ultrasonic welding of polymer composites based on experiments. The input parameters are welding energy, plunging speed, trigger force, surface condition, and annealing temperature. The output parameter is the maximum loading force in a lap shear test. A supervised algorithm of training the network is applied because the equations governing the process are very complex and the conditions of the welding are continuously changing. The trained network is used for determining the quantitative relationship between significant inputs and output parameters as well as for predicting the performance for other inputs which are not experimentally tested or modeled, but fit in the range of training. The ultrasonic welding ANN is a dynamic model which can be continuously trained with new cases, serving as a flexible and cost-effective tool for designing welding procedure.
Disinfection of noncritical equipment on units with high hospital-onset Clostridium difficile infections.

Abstract We assessed barriers and knowledge of disinfection of noncritical items (NCIs) between intensive care unit (ICU) and non-ICU staff members. General understanding of cleaning NCIs was low across all staff. Non-ICU staff had a better understanding of who is responsible for disinfecting and where to access information on storing cleaned NCIs. Opportunities exist for heightened disinfection of NCIs through improved point-of-care instructional information, improved cleaning supply access, and increased instrument storage space.
Occipital Nerve Blocks

Occipital nerve blocks utilizing local anesthetics and corticosteroids have been employed successfully in the management of a variety of headache disorders. Clinicians may perform occipital nerve blocks for both acute and preventive therapeutic benefits. The procedure can be easily performed, is of low risk to the patient, and provides rapid pain relief. The duration of the pain relief is variable, but typically weeks to months in length. Various techniques are used in clinical practice, and recently a consensus statement from the Interventional Procedures Special Interest Section of the American Headache Society was released. Correctly performing the procedure will allow rapid relief of head pain and the patient’s return to function.
Rate of Progression through a Continuum of Transit-Amplifying Progenitor Cell States Regulates Blood Cell Production

The nature of cell-state transitions during the transit-amplifying phases of many developmental processes-hematopoiesis in particular-is unclear. Here, we use single-cell RNA sequencing to demonstrate a continuum of transcriptomic states in committed transit-amplifying erythropoietic progenitors, which correlates with a continuum of proliferative potentials in these cells. We show that glucocorticoids enhance erythrocyte production by slowing the rate of progression through this developmental continuum of transit-amplifying progenitors, permitting more cell divisions prior to terminal erythroid differentiation. Mechanistically, glucocorticoids prolong expression of genes that antagonize and slow induction of genes that drive terminal erythroid differentiation. Erythroid progenitor daughter cell pairs have similar transcriptomes with or without glucocorticoid stimulation, indicating largely symmetric cell division. Thus, the rate of progression along a developmental continuum dictates the absolute number of erythroid cells generated from each transit-amplifying progenitor, suggesting a paradigm for regulating the total output of differentiated cells in numerous other developmental processes.
Slash pine (Pinus elliottii Engelm.) somatic embryogenesis II. Maturation of somatic embryos and plant regeneration

Maturation of slash pine (Pinus elliottii Engelm.) somatic embryos was achieved using two protocols, each starting with a different agar incubation step to deplete plant growth regulators (PGRs) used in previous cultural steps. Strength of maturation medium (single vs. double) was found important in the first protocol to develop normal, mature embryos. In the second protocol, abscisic acid (ABA) concentrations (0, 15 and 30 μM) and carbohydrate sources were tested for embryo maturation. Thirty μM ABA and 6% maltose were deemed the best combination. Embryo germination was accomplished in a continuously lighted environment and embryos receiving a cold pretreatment (4 °C in darkness for 16 days) germinated better than embryos which did not receive cold pretreatment. With a survival rate of 33% after acclimation in a mist system, more than 25 plants from somatic embryos have been established in a greenhouse. Incompletely germinated embryos (lacking roots) were rooted via adventitious rooting techniques and subsequently established in the greenhouse. All established plants obtained from somatic embryogenesis appear normal in morphology.
Seed Germination of Seabeach Amaranth (Amaranthus pumilus) in Response to Temperature, Light, and Gibberellin A3 Treatments

Abstract Seeds of seabeach amaranth (Amaranthus pumilus Raf.) stored at 4C (39F) for approximately 1 year (harvested September 2003) and freshly harvested seeds (October 2004) were soaked in Novemb...
Early Elementary Science Instruction: Does More Time on Science or Science Topics/Skills Predict Science Achievement in the Early Grades?:

Recent evidence points to the early elementary grades as a pivotal point for the development of science learning trajectories and achievement gaps. Using data from the Early Childhood Longitudinal ...
Evaluating Police-Community Relations Globally

Since the inception of the policing profession in the 1820s, Sir Robert Peel envisioned an entity that was reliant on public input and involvement in the prioritization of police organizational responsibilities and tasks. However, many have alleged that the police are mere pawns of the political or royal elite, and that criminal laws have been created and police officials have been deployed to control the lower classes and minority and other under-represented groups. This is made clearest when public perceptions of the police have been evaluated. Almost consistently, members of minority groups and those socio-economically challenged have conveyed lower and diminished opinions of law enforcement. The concepts of ‘trust’ and ‘confidence’ in the police will be evaluated and contemporary viewpoints will be outlined.
“The Traps Started During My Childhood”: The Role of Substance Abuse in Women’s Responses to Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)

The gendered pathways perspective seeks to identify the biological, psychological, and social realities that lead to women’s law-breaking behavior. Prior research in this area demonstrates the link...
Frequency of Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy Use Early in Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic

Objectives A subset of patients with coronavirus disease 2019 develop renal failure and require continuous renal replacement therapy. We reviewed the available literature to understand the frequency of continuous renal replacement therapy use among patients with coronavirus disease 2019 who required intensive care. Data sources The authors reviewed PubMed and Google Scholar for published studies and MedRxiv.com for unpublished studies. Study selection Observational and randomized studies that report the frequency of continuous renal replacement therapy use in adult patients with coronavirus disease 2019. Data extraction Data from the eligible studies were extracted independently by two authors into Microsoft Excel. Data synthesis We identified 12 eligible studies (eight published, four unpublished). We found that up to 20% of patients admitted to ICUs may require continuous renal replacement therapy. Conclusions Given the high utilization of continuous renal replacement therapy by critically ill patients with coronavirus disease 2019, there may be an urgent need to mobilize inpatient dialysis resources to cope with the anticipated increase in the demand.
O26 Feasibility and Acceptability of BALANCE (Bringing Adolescent Learners with Autism Nutrition and Culinary Education)

Objective This study aims to test the feasibility and acceptability of BALANCE (Bringing Adolescent Learners with Autism Nutrition and Culinary Education) in adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in a school setting. Use of Theory or Research The conceptual framework combines an approach to improve selective eating and other ASD-specific issues and social cognitive theory (SCT) constructs. Each of 8 intervention sessions has an activity linked to 1 or more SCT constructs, (eg, behavioral skills, goal-setting). Target Audience Adolescents with ASD aged 10-17 years with at least a third-grade reading level were recruited from a school for children with ASD. Twelve adolescents participated in October-December 2019. Program Description BALANCE consisted of 8 lessons: (1) Exploring taste, flavor, and texture; (2) Mealtimes and rules; (3) Food groups and nutrients; (4) Moderation; (5) New foods; (6) Cooking; (7) Fill and full; and (8) Sustaining healthy eating habits. Each lesson included interactive, group-based activities and tasting sessions, and was implemented in a 45- to 50-minute class period. Evaluation Methods Implementation and fidelity were measured using a checklist with items on adherence, quality, and exposure (dose delivered). Attendance was recorded. A focus group was conducted with students after Lesson 4, and Lessons 5-8 were revised based on their feedback. Results Lessons were administered with 100% adherence, high quality, and 100% exposure. On average, 11 students attended (ranged 10-12). Participants indicated that they liked small group activities and tasting sessions, and about half indicated that they made changes to their diet. Based on study findings, topics for Lessons 5 and 7 were modified to Beverages and Well-being, and weekly homework assignments were added. Conclusion BALANCE is feasible and acceptable in adolescents with ASD. Future research will examine parent and teacher feedback and test the efficacy of the intervention in a larger sample against a control group. Funding None.
Impact of Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Limitations on Hospital Readmission: an Observational Study Using Machine Learning.

Limitations in instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) hinder a person’s ability to live independently in the community and self-manage their conditions, but its impact on hospital readmission has not been firmly established. To test the importance of IADL dependency as a predictor of 30-day readmissions and quantify its impact relative to other morbidities. A retrospective cohort study of the population-based Health and Retirement Study linked to Medicare claims data. Random forest was used to rank each predictor variable in terms of its ability to predict readmission. Classification and regression tree (CART) was used to identify complex multimorbidity combinations associated with high or low risk of readmission. Generalized linear regression was used to estimate the adjusted relative risk of readmission for IADL limitations. Hospitalizations of adults age 65 and older (n = 20,007), from 6617 unique subjects. The main outcome was 30-day all-cause unplanned readmission. The main predictor of interest was self-reported IADL limitation. Other key predictors were self-reported complex multimorbidity including chronic diseases, geriatric syndromes, and activities of daily living (ADL) limitations, along with demographic, socioeconomic, and behavioral factors. The overall 30-day readmission rate in the study was 16.4%. Random forest analysis ranked ADLs and IADL limitations as the two most important predictors of 30-day readmission. CART identified hospitalizations of patients with IADL limitations and diabetes as a subgroup at the highest risk of readmission (26% readmitted). Multivariable regression analyses showed that ADL limitations were associated with 1.17 (1.06–1.29) times higher risk of readmission even after adjusting for other patient covariates. Risk prediction was modest though for even the best model (AUC = 0.612). IADL limitations are key predictors of 30-day readmission as demonstrated using several machine learning methods. Routine assessment of functional abilities in hospital settings could help identify those most at risk.
Thermodynamic properties of metaschoepite predicted from density functional perturbation theory

Abstract Density functional perturbation theory (DFPT) calculations of the thermodynamic properties of metaschoepite, ( UO 2 ) 8 O 2 ( OH ) 12 · 10 H 2 O , are reported. Using a recently revised crystal structure of metaschoepite, the predicted molar entropy and isobaric heat capacity are overall significantly smaller than previous calculations using an earlier orthorhombic crystal structure model. The present DFPT calculations also show large differences between the thermodynamic functions of metaschoepite and schoepite, which might reflect the change in phonon properties upon removal of two H2O molecules per formula unit and alteration of the H-bonded interlayer water network from schoepite to metaschoepite.
Facilitators and barriers to bikeshare use among users and non-users in a socioeconomically diverse urban population

Abstract Public bike sharing programs are becoming increasingly popular worldwide. While there is a growing body of literature exploring participation and facilitators among bike share users, little is known about the views of people who have not enrolled in bikeshare programs and how they differ from current users. This knowledge is critical to expand bikeshare ridership, particularly among low-income populations who typically have lower participation levels. We developed a cross-sectional survey to assess perceived barriers and facilitators to bikeshare use among users and non-users of the Bluebikes bikeshare program in Boston, Massachusetts. Survey respondents were recruited from lower-income Boston neighborhoods via flyers, social media, Craigslist, and in-person between June 12 - July 31, 2019. A total of 512 people completed the survey (277 bikeshare users and 235 non-users). Bikeshare users in our sample differed significantly from non-users with respect to age, sex, and race. Barriers and facilitators of bikeshare use were largely similar between users and non-users, as well as among users stratified by household income. The most frequently cited barriers included: safety concerns, lack of a helmet, proximity to stations, trouble with renting/returning a bike, and weather. The main facilitators included: convenience, proximity to stations, environmental benefits, economic benefits, fun, and health benefits. Salience of many of the most frequent barriers and facilitators increased with frequency of ridership. Barriers identified by users and non-users of bikeshare programs suggest key areas of program improvements and/or areas of focus for future recruitment efforts. Likewise, potential facilitators noted by non-users may represent key marketing opportunities for bikeshare programs that are seeking to expand in socioeconomically diverse urban settings.
Internal Combustion Engine Modeling Framework in Simulink: Gas Dynamics Modeling

With advancements in computer-aided design, simulation of internal combustion engines has become a vital tool for product development and design innovation. Among the simulation software packages currently available, MATLAB/Simulink is widely used for automotive system simulations, but does not contain a comprehensive engine modeling toolbox. To leverage MATLAB/Simulink’s capabilities, a Simulink-based 1D flow engine modeling framework has been developed. The framework allows engine component blocks to be connected in a physically representative manner in the Simulink environment, reducing model build time. Each component block, derived from physical laws, interacts with other blocks according to block connection. In this Part 1 of series papers, a comprehensive gas dynamics model is presented and integrated in the engine modeling framework based on MATLAB/Simulink. Then, the gas dynamics model is validated with commercial engine simulation software by conducting a simple 1D flow simulation.
On the Incidence of an Ad Valorem Tax: The Adoption of VAT in the UK and Cost Pass Through by English Football Clubs

It is conventional in the sports economics literature to assume that professional sports teams are local monopolists and that stadium attendance below capacity has approximately zero marginal cost, implying that prices should optimally be set at the point of unit elasticity, regardless of whether teams are win maximisers or profit maximisers. The empirical literature has puzzled over the finding that prices appear to be set on the inelastic part of the demand curve. This paper approaches the problem in a different way. If the assumptions are true, then tax theory implies that an ad valorem tax such as VAT should be absorbed in full by the sellers. The paper uses company records that identify attendance and gate revenue for over 6000 English Football League games between 1971 and 1974, to examine the impact of the adoption of 10% VAT in the UK on April 1, 1973. The data suggests that pass through rates varied considerably, averaged around 25%, and were seldom zero.
Path taken in a Fontan circulation: room for optimism in the face of uncertainty.

Survival into adulthood for individuals born with single ventricle congenital heart disease is now possible. In the 1970s and 1980s, early efforts emphasised the exploration of optimal techniques and strategies necessary to create survival. How best to palliate in infancy and bring an individual child with single ventricle to the point of good candidacy to survive through Fontan operation was the goal. Today, refinements in the strategy of early care are still necessary, as many patients continue to struggle to get to—and sometimes through—the Fontan operation stage. However, there is also a new reality and a new perspective. Reaping the rewards of surgical success of the past five decades, we now have the capacity to not just look at individual patients or case series results, but to observe and analyse population-based outcomes in adults with a Fontan circulation. What is clear to anyone caring for patients with single ventricle and Fontan circulation is that no two individuals are exactly alike. There is tremendous heterogeneity in the make-up of the substrate, as well as huge variability in outcomes and quality of life. Dozens of forms of congenital heart defects can manifest as an inadequate two-ventricle system and thus require a Fontan circulation. Each variant brings its own unique genotype and specific phenotype, risks and perils, to the table. The entire course of care starting from prenatal management through Fontan surgery is an eventful and arduous …
A Systematic Review Supporting the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery Guidelines on the Prevention and Treatment of Adverse Events of Injectable Fillers.

BACKGROUND As the use of injectable skin fillers increase in popularity, an increase in the reported adverse events is expected. OBJECTIVE This systematic review supports the development of American Society for Dermatologic Surgery practice guideline on the management of adverse events of skin fillers. METHODS AND MATERIALS Several databases for studies on risk factors or treatments of injection-related visual compromise (IRVC), skin necrosis, inflammatory events, and nodules were searched. Meta-analysis was conducted when feasible. RESULTS The review included 182 studies. However, IRVC was very rare (1-2/1,000,000 patients) but had poor prognosis with improvement in 19% of cases. Skin necrosis was more common (approximately 5/1,000) with better prognosis (up to 77% of cases showing improvement). Treatments of IRVC and skin necrosis primarily depend on hyaluronidase injections. Risk of skin necrosis, inflammatory events, and nodules may be lower with certain fillers, brands, injection techniques, and volume. Treatment of inflammatory events and nodules with antibiotics, corticosteroids, 5-FU, and hyaluronidase was associated with high response rate (75%-80%). Most of the studies were small and noncomparative, making the evidence certainty very low. CONCLUSION Practitioners must have adequate knowledge of anatomy, elicit history of skin filler use, and establish preemptive protocols that prepare the clinical practice to manage complications.
Varying heat tolerance among Arctic nearshore fishes

Adapted to life in cold, polar waters, might Arctic fishes be ill equipped to deal with the rising temperatures expected from global climate change? Little is currently known about differences in tolerance among the diverse collection of nearshore, estuarine, and freshwater fishes found in the Arctic. We investigated the thermal tolerance of this broader Arctic ichthyofauna by studying heat tolerance among common members of the fish fauna near Utqiaġvik (Barrow), Alaska. Situated on the Arctic coast, Utqiaġvik provides access to fishes that span the key ecological divisions of Arctic waters. Organismal heat tolerance was measured for six species of local fishes using the critical thermal maximum methodology. We found that these Arctic nearshore fishes commonly had heat tolerance limits that were similar to cold-temperate species. However, there was substantial variation in heat tolerance among North Slope fishes, with several anadromous species endemic to Arctic habitats notable for significantly lower heat tolerance compared to the other investigated species. This would suggest that vulnerability to warming differs among Arctic fishes, even among those collected in the same waters, with species such as least cisco and broad whitefish seemingly most at risk from future increases in water temperature.
Exploring the Digital Identity Divide: A Call for Attention to Computing Identity at HBCUs

The lack of diversity in computing professions has continuously persisted in the tech industry, with racial minorities experiencing less representation than broader marginalized groups. The issue of continuous under-representation for Black/African Americans is especially telling of a pressing digital divide issue. Members of this group comprise roughly 13% of the U.S. population, but disproportionately hold only 5% and 8% of computer engineering and computer science bachelor?s degrees. Studies suggest that computing culture and stereotypes associated with the discipline and its practitioners are among the varied contributors to sociocultural rifts between Black students and computing. This disconnect impacts students' computational and technological identities, which may result in these students deciding to "disidentify" with computing, and to pursue academic disciplines in which they experience higher self-efficacy. Despite comprising only 4% of U.S. universities, Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs) produce 31% of the Black STEM bachelor's degrees. Still, HBCU computing departments face unique retention issues that impact student matriculation through computer science (CS) degrees. As there are few course-based efforts geared toward cultivating students' computing identities, this position paper highlights the need for formal attention to the fostering of these identities. It presents HBCU computing departments as key centers for beginning to address traditional computing culture and identity-related attrition issues for Black students. By tackling notions of computing and technology identity in these settings, students are given space to critique and develop their computational identities in ways that support retention in the CS major and degree completion.
What does experiential education look like in a global pandemic? Reflecting back and looking forward

Abstract Purpose The purpose of this reflection or wisdom of experience article is to describe and reflect on the impacts of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) on experiential education (EE) leadership and teams. Additionally, this reflection will shift the focus from the spring 2020 environment of SARS-CoV-2 to what EE teams and college administration can learn from those experiences. Moving forward, EE teams and administrators can be better equipped to proactively plan for future emergencies. Description Using the “What? So What? Now What?” model of reflection, this manuscript will broadly describe the experiences of three EE administrators and their teams during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Proposed lessons learned as well as future planning strategies will be presented. Analysis/Interpretation The world of education was unprepared for the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, and most sectors were left scrambling to adjust to new models very quickly with no planning or preparation. In the realm of pharmacy education, SARS-CoV-2 caused complete disruption for pharmacy students on rotations, clinical sites, preceptors, and EE teams. In reflecting on spring 2020, much can be gained and applied to future planning efforts so that institutions can be better prepared for future crises. Conclusions/Implications While still in the pandemic, schools must plan for the coming year. EE teams can work together to prepare for emergencies, craft contingency plans, and build additional capacity into their teams and available rotation offerings.
Instant Replay and Interlocutory Appeals

There is widespread agreement that the system of interlocutory appeals in federal civil cases is inadequate, and too often parties aggrieved by an erroneous interlocutory order must await final judgment before they can appeal. But there is no consensus on how best to expand upon the existing avenues of interlocutory appeals, which are a mix of discretionary appeals and appeals as of right. This article proposes a novel approach to interlocutory appeals reform inspired by the use of instant replay in professional sports. The centerpiece of the proposal is the “challenge appeal.” Akin to how football and baseball teams can immediately challenge a limited number of on-field calls via instant replay review, each side of the case gets one “challenge appeal” by which it can appeal an interlocutory order immediately, without the need for permission by any judge. Challenge appeals combine the best aspects of discretionary appeals and appeals as of right, while striking an optimum balance between the oft-conflicting goals of error correction and efficiency. The article also suggests procedural changes designed to make challenge appeals more “instant.”
BRAIN-DERIVED NEUROTROPHIC FACTOR IN AN ORBITOFRONTAL CORTICAL-DORSOLATERAL STRIATAL CIRCUIT GATES ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signaling in the dorsolateral striatum (DLS) gates alcohol self-administration in rodents. The major source of BDNF in the striatum is the cortex, and we recently found that BDNF-expressing neurons in the ventrolateral orbitofrontal cortex (vlOFC) extend axonal projections to the DLS. We therefore hypothesized that BDNF in the vlOFC to DLS circuit moderates alcohol intake. We show that overexpression of BDNF in the vlOFC, which activates BDNF signaling in the DLS, is sufficient to attenuate voluntary consumption and seeking of 20% alcohol in the home cage using a two-bottle choice paradigm. Overexpressing BDNF in the vlOFC had no effect on the consumption of a sweetened saccharin solution. In addition, BDNF overexpression in the neighboring motor cortex did not alter alcohol intake. Finally, pathway-specific overexpression of BDNF in DLS-projecting vlOFC neurons significantly reduced alcohol intake and preference. Overall, BDNF in the vlOFC, and specifically in a vlOFC-DLS pathway, keeps alcohol drinking in moderation.
Conductive Polymer Films for Improved Poling in Non-Linear Optical Waveguides

Publisher Summary This chapter presents the development of conductive polymer films for improved poling in nonlinear optical waveguides. An aqueous solution of poly(ethylene dioxythiophene) (PEDOT) doped with poly(styrenesulfonic acid) (PSS) was used to allow the processing of the polymer to form thin films. To achieve highly transparent conductive films, a blended system of PEDOT/PSS in poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) was chosen. A commonly used active layer of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) doped with 10 wt% disperse red one (DRl) was employed to test the performance of the conductive claddings. The results indicate that the conductive layers acted as an isolation layer between the active layer and the indium tin oxide (ITO). The layers seemed to have the ability to delay the occurrence of catastrophic breakdown by isolating or healing areas where small shorts had occurred and preventing further current leakage. The use of blended PEDOT/PVA films is shown to improve poling efficiency in electro-optic guest–host systems. These blends were also used as cladding layers to produce a functional waveguide with a poly(carbonate) guiding layer. The blended system was shown to have low optical absorption and a wide range of tunable conductivity.
Marking in Physical Education

(1936). Marking in Physical Education. The Journal of Health and Physical Education: Vol. 7, No. 1, pp. 16-62.
Mary Lindsay Elmendorf: Citizen Activist to Applied Anthropologist

ABSTRACT Mary Lindsay Elmendorf became an anthropologist over the course of a life that includes many diverse employment experiences, active engagement in international affairs and development, and a passionate desire to be actively involved in making the world a better place for all people. These concerns eventually led her at age 55 to a Ph.D. in anthropology, a discipline in which her interests in the human condition merged with her desire to do something about improving women's opportunities in societies, poverty and development, and world peace. Many of her applied interests were formed during her long involvement with such issues in Mexico and with colleagues there as well as in similar activities in many other countries as a consultant.
Variability of the solar wind suprathermal electron strahl

[1] At suprathermal energies, interplanetary electrons commonly exhibit a magnetic field-aligned beam referred to as the strahl. The finite strahl width is a consequence of competition between magnetic focusing as the interplanetary field weakens with distance from the Sun, and particle scattering acting to broaden the strahl along its propagation path. We present a statistical survey of the strahl using ACE Solar Wind Electron, Proton, and Alpha Monitor (SWEPAM) measurements from 1998 to 2002. A systematic fitting algorithm was applied to pitch angle distributions to identify unidirectional or counterstreaming strahl features and to quantify beam widths and intensities. The analysis indicated that a strahl is present ≥75% of the time, while counterstreaming strahls were observed about 10% of the time. The strahl width ranges from 5° to 90°; importantly, the strahl cannot be characterized by any typical width. Within counterstreaming intervals the strahl peak intensity anticorrelates with beam width while the integrated fluxes of the two simultaneously observed strahls are similar, within a factor of 2 for 75% of counterstreaming periods. Observations are consistent with a model in which integrated strahl flux leaving the corona varies over a limited range, but the degree of beam scattering along the propagation path to 1 AU varies widely. The difference between two concurrent counterstreaming strahls is likely due to different scattering profiles along the different legs of a closed field line loop, both rooted in similar coronal regions. Narrow strahls (<20°) are strongly associated with counterstreaming intervals, as well as high-speed streams. Strahl width can either increase or decrease with energy.
Hardware-Accelerated Range Partitioning

With global pool of data growing at over 2.5 quinitillion bytes per day and over 90% of all data in existence created in the last two years alone [23], there can be little doubt that we have entered the big data era. This trend has brought database performance to the forefront of high throughput, low energy system design. This paper explores targeted deployment of hardware accelerators to improve the throughput and efficiency of database processing. Partitioning, a critical operation when manipulating large data sets, is often the limiting factor in database performance, and represents a significant amount of the overall runtime of database processing work-
Buccal androgen alone and with estrogen in tension and anxiety

Abstract Two groups of patients showing tension and anxiety symptoms have been presented. In one group, with vaginal smears indicating hyperestrinism, androgen alone was used with favorable results. The other group, previously treated for hypo-ovaria or menopausal symptoms with estrogen alone without relief of tension, was given estrogen-androgen therapy with excellent results. Buccal tablets of testosterone propionate (Oreton Buccal Tablets) were used. Buccal dosage should be approximately twice parenteral dosage. Optimal neutralizing estrogen-androgen, as revealed by percentage of cornified cells in vaginal smears, is 1:40. Androgen alone and with estrogen has a definite place in gynecologic therapy. This field should be further explored. Androgen is effective in dosages less than those producing masculinization.
The War within the War on Crime: The Congressional Assault on Judicial Sentencing Discretion

Between 1984 and the Booker decision in 2005, traditional notions of judicial sentencing discretion were virtually eliminated by legislation requiring mandatory minimum penalties for drug and gun crimes as well as through the creation of the Sentencing Guidelines. Although the central features of these changes have been deplored by federal judges at every level and across the political spectrum, Congress continued to pass legislation that judges claim transforms them into mere automatons, permitted only to apply a mathematical formula that reduces offenders to a box on the Sentencing Guideline grid or a one-size-fits-all mandatory minimum. This article discusses one of the most controversial restrictions on federal judicial discretion in this period, the 2003 Feeney Amendment. The article explains the genesis and provisions of the 2003 Feeney Amendment and examines the root causes of Congress's war on judicial discretion. The article also suggests how the federal bench can contribute to restoring balance in federal sentencing without overstepping the proper limitations on judicial participation in political discourse.
Neural networks for pattern discovery and optimization in signal processing and applications

The article is intended to advance both conceptual and implementation techniques of supervised and discovery-driven neural networks in noisy time varying signal processing applications. Successful neural networks and their significance in applications are based on; selection of proper theoretical algorithms for learning, appropriate selection of the sequencing of signal processing tasks, and efficient VLSI system implementation. We present a pattern discovery self organizing feature map (SOFM), followed by a recurrent dynamic neural network (RDNN) algorithm for signal representation and processing. This approach combines the benefits of RDNNs with its SOFM counter part. Preliminary designs, implementations, test results and validation of silicon-chips for each of the above neural network approach are also presented.
Longevity of the expression of behavioral sensitization to cocaine in preweanling rats

Abstract The influence of the treatment-to-test interval on the expression of behavioral sensitization to cocaine was assessed following chronic cocaine exposure during the late preweanling period. From postnatal day 14 (P14) to P20, Sprague–Dawley rat pups received a daily intraperitoneal injection of either 30 mg/kg/2 cc cocaine or an equivalent volume of saline that was paired with placement in the treatment/test context for 30 min. Animals were challenged with 15 mg/kg cocaine in this context on the test day following drug-free intervals of 1, 3, 7, 14, or 21 days. Behavioral sensitization was evident following the preweanling cocaine regimen in terms of both matrix crossings and stereotypy. For matrix crossings, there was no evidence that this sensitization decreased across the time intervals examined, and sensitization was evident with stereotypy even at the 21-day injection–test interval. The expression of sensitization, however, was partially overshadowed by an overall reduced sensitivity to cocaine seen in testing during the periadolescent period (i.e., at P34 and P41). Thus, behavioral sensitization to cocaine can be expressed for weeks following chronic treatment during the late preweanling period, although the magnitude of behavioral expression may be influenced by age-related neurobehavioral alterations.
In Vitro Activity of Riboflavin against the Human Malaria Parasite Plasmodium falciparum

The human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum digests hemoglobin and polymerizes the released free heme into hemozoin. This activity occurs in an acidic organelle called the food vacuole and is essential for survival of the parasite in erythrocytes. Since acidic conditions are known to enhance the auto-oxidation of hemoglobin, we investigated whether hemoglobin ingested by the parasite was oxidized and whether the oxidation process could be a target for chemotherapy against malaria. We released parasites from their host cells and separately analyzed hemoglobin ingested by the parasites from that remaining in the erythrocytes. Isolated parasites contained elevated amounts (38.5% ± 3.5%) of oxidized hemoglobin (methemoglobin) compared to levels (0.8% ± 0.2%) found in normal, uninfected erythrocytes. Further, treatment of infected cells with the reducing agent riboflavin for 24 h decreased the parasite methemoglobin level by 55%. It also inhibited hemozoin production by 50% and decreased the average size of the food vacuole by 47%. Administration of riboflavin for 48 h resulted in a 65% decrease in food vacuole size and inhibited asexual parasite growth in cultures. High doses of riboflavin are used clinically to treat congenital methemoglobinemia without any adverse side effects. This activity, in conjunction with its impressive antimalarial activity, makes riboflavin attractive as a safe and inexpensive drug for treating malaria caused by P. falciparum.
Propranolol Induced Electrical and Mechanical Alternans in Orthodromic Reciprocating Tachycardia

During an electrophysiological study in a patient with a concealed accessory connection, there was no evidence of eiectrical or mechanical alfernans during tachycardia until propranolol was adminislered, but both forms of alternans developed with tachycardia of a slower rate following propranolol. Echocardiographic. arterial pressure, and electrocardiographic data obtained prior to and following propranolol administration are presented.
Chessboard domination on programmable graphics hardware

In this paper we present an algorithm to compute the minimum dominating number of a chessboard graph given any chess piece. We use the CPU to compute possible minimally dominating sets, which we then send to programmable graphics hardware to determine the set's domination. We find that the GPU accelerated algorithm performs better than a comparable CPU based algorithm for board sizes greater than 9. To our knowledge, this paper presents the first algorithm to determine the minimum domination number of a chessboard graph using the GPU.
Broadband capacitively fed tapered type PIFA with modified ground plane

The presented planar inverted F-antenna (PIFA) employs a combination of two bandwidth enhancement techniques – patch tapering and the T-shaped ground plane – in conjunction with a capacitive feeding mechanism. The resulting impedance bandwidth of this PIFA is about 35% and average gain is more than 4 dB within the United States (US) Public Safety (PS) band (700–900 MHz). The radiation pattern remains almost unchanged over this wide frequency range with good agreement between experimental and simulated results.
Occipital cortical morphology of the rat: Alterations with age and environment

Abstract With the use of Golgi impregnation, this study demonstrated dendritic proliferation in layers II and III in the medial occipital cortex of 444- and 630-day-old male rats. Increases occurred in animals housed in either enriched or standard colony conditions. Specifically, third- and fourth-order basal dendrites increased significantly in frequency from 414 to 444 to 630 days of age. This study approximated a longitudinal study because the different age groups were littermates. The finding of an increase in dendritic branching in old age was not new, but our study was the first to note this increase in the rat's cerebral cortex. In a separate study the cortical morphology was examined in 90- and 630-day-old rats which had been living together in a single enriched environment for 30 days. The brains of these rats were compared with littermates living with their respective age groups in standard colony conditions. The dendritic pattern was similar in those two age groups irrespective of environment. Only the sixth order significantly differed, with the frequency of branching being greater in the 630-day-old animals. An increase in cortical thickness in the enriched animals was apparent compared with controls, but the differences were not significant. Because previous results showed the 60- to 90-day-old enriched rats without old companions developed a significantly thicker cortex than standard control littermates, it is possible that when young rats live with old rats they do not interact with their environment as musch as when living with other young rats.
Whole genomes, small children, big questions

The child was first seen at the age of 15 months presenting with an unusual, severe and progressive Crohn’s disease-like illness. A definitive diagnosis could not be made, restricting effective clinical management. The boy underwent more than 100 surgical procedures over 3 years. A hematopoietic progenitor cell transplant, that might be a therapy of last resort, was considered too risky without a clear diagnosis of the underlying disorder. Established genetic tests for known congenital immune disorders presenting with inflammatory bowel disease-like illness were not informative. Ultimately, with institutional review board approval, research-stage, nonvalidated, WES was performed to make a clinical diagnosis and guide the treatment decision. The identification of the causative mutation enabled treatment of the underlying immune disorder and of the child’s bowel disease as well [3]. In a commentary article, alongside with the report describing the clinical and methodological details of the case, the Wisconsin group presents their ethical deliberations [4]. The authors raise some crucial questions – notwithstanding the impressive outcome and the indisputable huge benefit to the young patient – and suggest further discussion. This editorial aims to follow up on their suggestions. The first issue raised is about the elusive boundary between research and clinical care. As this case Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) is entering clinical practice. Expectations are high: a better understanding of disease, more accurate diagnosis and targeted therapies are hoped for; however, while some answers are being found, many new questions are arising. At the current stage, the dimensions of the -omics data sets in particular are overwhelming and physician–researchers are just starting to explore the ways in which they can be used. Apart from the bioinformatics challenges of genome data management there are the questions of meaningful interpretation of the emerging knowledge for health information users, both patients and professionals. At the individual and the societal level, questions are being asked about the extent and the usefulness of the newly available knowledge, for example: do whole-genome or -exome sequences tell us more than we want to know about ourselves, and doctors more than they need to know to treat their patients? In addition, do whole genomes tell parents more than they should know about their children? Since the early days of cytogenetic diagnosis, similar questions have been raised about the extent of the information yielded by testing, the communication of findings, and the ethical implications of testing [1]. Today, the availability of WGS and whole-exome sequencing (WES) for clinical diagnostics puts these old questions in a new context. Most recently, the feasibility of WGS was described for the application of noninvasive prenatal diagnosis [2].
Hydrophilic colloids and the elimination of inorganic sulfur from coal: a study employing contact angle measurements

Abstract Selective oil agglomeration, which is an effective method of eliminating inorganic sulfur from coal, can be further improved in its efficiency by means of the addition of boiled starch. (Starch that was not boiled had a barely detectable effect.) We have measured the oil—water—solid contact angle θs12 on coal and on iron pyrite (FeS2) and have discovered that starch makes iron pyrite more hydrophilic without appreciable loss of hydrophobic character of the coal. Measurements of the effect of n-octanol on θs12, and on the n-decane—water interfacial tension, were also made. The Young equation can be combined with the Gibbs equation, with a result in the form which we may call the Gibbs—Young equation. We have used this expression to show that n-octanol is more strongly adsorbed at the solid—water interface than at the solid—oil interface. We have carried out laboratory runs of the modified oil agglomeration process, and found that as much as a 55% reduction in pyritic sulfur, below the level obtained without starch, can be achieved, as well as a reduction in ash by as much as 38%.