cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A foundation for designing deadlock-free routing algorithms in wormhole networks

This paper provides necessary and sufficient conditions for deadlock-free unicast and multicast routing with the path-based routing model in interconnection networks which use the wormhole switching technique. The theory is developed around three central concepts: channel waiting, false resource cycles, and valid destination sets. The first two concepts are suitable extensions to those developed for unicast routing by two authors of this paper; the third concept has been developed by Lin and Ni. The necessary and sufficient conditions can be applied in a straightforward manner to prove deadlock freedom and to find more adaptive routing algorithms for collective communication. The latter point is illustrated by developing two routing algorithms for multicast communication in 2-D mesh architectures. The first algorithm uses fewer resources (channels) than an algorithm proposed in the literature but achieves the same adaptivity. The second achieves full adaptivity for multicast routing.
Hyperactivation balances sensory processing deficits during mood induction in schizophrenia

While impairments in emotion recognition are consistently reported in schizophrenia, there is some debate on the experience of emotion. Only few studies investigated neural correlates of emotional experience in schizophrenia. The present functional magnetic resonance imaging study compared a standard visual mood induction paradigm with an audiovisual method aimed at eliciting emotions more automatically. To investigate the interplay of sensory, cognitive and emotional mechanisms during emotion experience, we examined connectivity patterns between brain areas. Sixteen schizophrenia patients and sixteen healthy subjects participated in two different mood inductions (visual and audiovisual) that were administered for different emotions (happiness, sadness and neutral). Confirming the dissociation of behavioral and neural correlates of emotion experience, patients rated their mood similarly to healthy subjects but showed differences in neural activations. Sensory brain areas were activated less, increased activity emerged in higher cortical areas, particularly during audiovisual stimulation. Connectivity was increased between primary and secondary sensory processing areas in schizophrenia. These findings support the hypothesis of a deficit in filtering and processing sensory information alongside increased higher-order cognitive effort compensating for perception deficits in the affective domain. This may suffice to recover emotion experience in ratings of clinically stable patients but may fail during acute psychosis.
Finding similar acoustic events using matching pursuit and locality-sensitive hashing

There are many applications for the ability to find repetitions of perceptually similar sound events in generic audio recordings. We explore the use of matching pursuit (MP) derived features to identify repeated patterns that characterize distinct acoustic events. We use locality-sensitive hashing (LSH) to efficiently search for similar items. We describe a method for detecting repetitions of events, and demonstrate performance on real data.
Collaborative filtering recommender systems

One of the potent personalization technologies powering the adaptive web is collaborative filtering. Collaborative filtering (CF) is the process of filtering or evaluating items through the opinions of other people. CF technology brings together the opinions of large interconnected communities on the web, supporting filtering of substantial quantities of data. In this chapter we introduce the core concepts of collaborative filtering, its primary uses for users of the adaptive web, the theory and practice of CF algorithms, and design decisions regarding rating systems and acquisition of ratings. We also discuss how to evaluate CF systems, and the evolution of rich interaction interfaces. We close the chapter with discussions of the challenges of privacy particular to a CF recommendation service and important open research questions in the field.
Long-range chromosomal interactions and gene regulation

Over the last few years important new insights into the process of long-range gene regulation have been obtained. Gene regulatory elements are found to engage in direct physical interactions with distant target genes and with loci on other chromosomes to modulate transcription. An overview of recently discovered long-range chromosomal interactions is presented, and a network approach is proposed to unravel gene-element relationships. Gene expression is controlled by regulatory elements that can be located far away along the chromosome or in some cases even on other chromosomes. Genes and regulatory elements physically associate with each other resulting in complex genome-wide networks of chromosomal interactions. Here we describe several well-characterized cases of long-range interactions involved in the activation and repression of transcription. We speculate on how these interactions may affect gene expression and outline possible mechanisms that may facilitate encounters between distant elements. Finally, we propose that a genome-wide network analysis may provide new insights into the logic of long-range gene regulation.
Efficient commerce protocols based on one-time pads

Presents a new commerce protocol that allows customers and merchants to conduct face-to-face credit-card authorizations with a credit card company securely, with the option of anonymity for the customer, the merchant, or both. Our protocol guarantees that both parties agree to and know the outcome of each transaction. Our protocol has three advantages over others. First, we need only two message authentication code (MAC) operations per party per transaction, fewer than most popular protocols. Second, our own MAC function, OTPMAC (One-Time Pad MAC), does not rely on the existence of one-way functions or on any other unproven hypothesis. Third, our protocol generates a new one-time identifier per party per transaction, preventing the linkage of multiple transactions to a single party. Additionally, the protocol can operate in modes using alternatives to the one-time pad, including cryptographic pseudo-random number generators and conventional cryptographic MAC functions.
Design of a minimally constraining, passively supported gait training exoskeleton: ALEX II

This paper discusses the design of a new, minimally constraining, passively supported gait training exoskeleton known as ALEX II. This device builds on the success and extends the features of the ALEX I device developed at the University of Delaware. Both ALEX (Active Leg EXoskeleton) devices have been designed to supply a controllable torque to a subject's hip and knee joint. The current control strategy makes use of an assist-as-needed algorithm. Following a brief review of previous work motivating this redesign, we discuss the key mechanical features of the new ALEX device. A short investigation was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the control strategy and impact of the exoskeleton on the gait of six healthy subjects. This paper concludes with a comparison between the subjects' gait both in and out of the exoskeleton.
Coronary endothelial dysfunction is associated with increased risk of venous thromboembolism.

Abstract Background Normal endothelial function is central to physiologic anticoagulation mechanisms. Endothelial dysfunction may predispose to venous thromboembolism (VTE). We aimed to investigate if coronary endothelial dysfunction (CED) predicts development of VTE in patients presenting with coronary atherosclerosis without critical stenoses. Methods Coronary microvascular function was evaluated in 502 patients with coronary atherosclerosis without critical stenoses by administration of intracoronary acetylcholine at the time of diagnostic study. After a median follow-up of 6.3 years, patients were assessed for the development of VTE by administration of a questionnaire. Coronary microvascular endothelial dysfunction was defined as ≤ 50% increase in coronary blood flow from baseline in response to maximal dose of acetylcholine. Results The median age was 53 years (IQR: 45, 62) 68% were female and CED occurred in 279 (56%) patients. Hypertension (40.8%), diabetes (8.4%), and hyperlipidemia (58.3%) were common risk factors. There were no differences in baseline characteristics between those with and without CED. There were 9 VTE events (6 unprovoked) among patients with CED compared to no events in the control group (P = 0.01). Discussion CED was associated with the development of VTE. Endothelial injury by causing disruption of vascular hemostasis may play a role in predisposing patients to VTE.
The Role of Calcium and Phospholipase A2 in Glucagon-Induced Enhancement of Mitochondrial Calcium Retention

Glucagon affects metabolic activities in different compartments of the liver cell, including the mitochondria. These effects of glucagon are often preserved during isolation of the mitochondria (see 1 for review). The mitochondrial actions of glucagon may not be directly mediated by a rise in the level of cAMP; instead, mitochondrial calcium uptake may be involved in transferring the hormonal signal to the mitochondrial matrix. Glucagon induces a mobilization of calcium from non-mitochondrial stores in hepatocytes, presumably by activation of the phosphoinositide-specific phospholipase C (2,3). This leads to a transient increase in cytosolic free calcium levels, disturbing the balance between matrix and cytosolic calcium concentrations maintained by the calcium transport systems present in the inner membrane. There is evidence that mitochondrial calcium content is increased after glucagon treatment (4).
Where Does Entrepreneurship Pay

Empirical literature has found negative earnings differential between self-employed and paid workers, but much of the existing theory predicts the opposite, especially when entrepreneurship is defined as applying general technical knowledge to firm-specific purposes. We employ the NSF data on science and engineering workforce to identify occupations and jobs that require especially intensive use of technical knowledge acquired through formal education and we show that entrepreneurship generates considerable conditional mean and median pecuniary returns as compared to paid work in such jobs. In contrast, among scientists and engineers whose business ventures are not related to their education, the entrepreneurial earnings differential is negative, in line with findings in the previous literature. The positive earnings differential in education-intensive occupations increases with tenure in business, but declines with age. We offer a simple job-matching model where workers receive noisy signals about their ability, and higher-ability workers gradually sort themselves into self-employment in education-related jobs because of higher returns to ability in such jobs. The model is shown to be in line with evidence from panel data, suggesting that the premium to self-employment in education-intensive occupations and jobs might be due primarily to selection.
Insurance Implications of September 11 and Possible Responses

September 11 was a "defining moment" for this generation. The graphic images of that day will forever remain seared into people's individual and collective consciousness. Americans responded in many ways, both individually and collectively. The government, with nearly unanimous public support, immediately responded by declaring "war" on terrorism and by adopting measures to provide relief for victims of the attack.September 11 was also a defining moment for the insurance industry. It was "the largest single insured event in history." Insurance companies are expected to pay some $50 billion to victims of the attack -more than eight times what the federal government is expected to pay through the Victims Compensation Program. This amount is also more than three times the total expected cost of the airline bailout, of which the Compensation program is a part. As one industry observer put it, "No matter how much is written about it, it is hard to overstate the significance of Sept[ember] 11 to the Insurance Industry." This article outlines the insurance industry's response to the September 11 attack and describes its potential effect on cities. It then suggest some possible strategies that cities might use to address the insurance industry's response.
Calcium Antagonists Improve the Outcome after Renal Transplantation

Calcium antagonists (CATs) have a role in the management of certain types of acute renal insufficiency (1,2). These include prophylaxis against postischemic acute renal failure, radio-contrast-induced acute renal failure, nephrotoxic drugs and post transplant-associated acute renal failure and cyclosporine A (CsA)-induced renal dysfunction. For the transplanted kidney, CATs may be beneficial in several settings. First, the use of a CAT during organ procurement may protect the kidney during the warm and cold ischemic periods (3). Second, the use of CATs perioperatively further protects the kidney during reperfusion and early after transplantation (4). Third, CATs also offer protection against CsA-induced renal dysfunction (5). This chapter summarizes and updates our experimental and clinical experience with CATs in cadaver renal transplantation (CRT).
Accelerated myocardial relaxation in conscious dogs during acute cardiac tamponade

Eight chronically instrumented conscious dogs were used to test the hypothesis that left ventricular (LV) relaxation is accelerated during cardiac tamponade. The time constant of LV transmural pressure fall was measured before and during intrapericardial (IP) saline infusion (baseline) with and without beta-adrenergic blockade (propranolol 1 mg/kg iv). Heart rate was controlled by atrial pacing. Increasing IP pressure caused a progressive linear decrease in stroke volume before and during beta-blockade in each animal. The time constant of LV transmural pressure fall also decreased continuously with an increase in IP pressure from 26 +/- 7 ms during baseline to 18 +/- 5 ms during severe cardiac tamponade (P < 0.01) before beta-blockade. However, after beta-blockade, the time constant of LV transmural pressure fall was constant over a wide range of IP pressures despite a continuous decrease in LV end-diastolic volume. The time constant of LV transmural pressure fall was not altered by vena caval occlusions that caused the same decrease in LV preload observed during cardiac tamponade. We concluded that despite decreased pump function, LV relaxation was accelerated progressively during graded cardiac tamponade, and this change was dependent not on changes in loading conditions but on an intact beta-adrenergic influence.
Determination of anharmonic free energy contributions: Low temperature phases of the Lennard-Jones system

We investigate a general method to calculate the free energy of crystalline solids by considering the harmonic approximation and quasistatically switching the anharmonic contribution. The advantage of this method is that the harmonic approximation provides an already very accurate estimate of the free energy, and therefore the anharmonic term is numerically very small and can be determined to high accuracy. We further show that the anharmonic contribution to the free energy satisfies a number of exact inequalities that place constraints on its magnitude and allows approximate but fast and accurate estimates. The method is implemented into a readily available general software by combining the code HOODLT (Highly Optimized Object Oriented Dynamic Lattice Theory) for the harmonic part and the molecular dynamics (MD) simulation package HOOMD-blue for the anharmonic part. We use the method to calculate the low temperature phase diagram for Lennard-Jones particles. We demonstrate that hcp is the equilibrium phase at low temperature and pressure and obtain the coexistence curve with the fcc phase, which exhibits reentrant behavior. Several implications of the method are discussed.
Use of radioactive tracers in the evaluation of penile hemodynamics: history, methodology and measurements

Radionuclide tracer techniques are intimately associated with some of the early ground-breaking investigations in erectile dysfunction and have evolved along with the field. At the present time, the various investigations can be grouped into four categories: labeled blood-pool; tracer washout; tracer washin and combined blood-pool/tracer and tracer washout examinations. Blood pool studies are most useful in assessing the integrity of arterial inflow, but may also be used to generate indices of venous leak. A non-imaging version of the blood-pool test may represent a simple and cost-effective alternative. Washout of intracavernosal xenon during erection seems the most rigorous method of testing venous integrity. Washout using 99mTc-labeled substances may emerge as a convenient alternative to the more technically difficult xenon examinations. Dual-isotope blood pool and washout examinations, though complicated, represent an ideal method of analyzing penile hemodynamics, with potential to contribute significantly to the understanding of penile physiology. Development of improved pharmacologic stimuli and augmentation of testing protocols by intracavernosal pressure monitoring may further improve the utility of quantitative and physiologic nuclear medicine examinations in erectile dysfunction.
Factors Determining Mating Frequencies in Some New World Butterflies and Skippers

The mean insemination frequencies of 14 species of New World skippers and butterflies were determined by means of spermatophore counts. Each sample of females was divided into 4 age categories on the basis of structural criteria. The complex relationships among mean insemination frequencies, intrinsic effects of genetically controlled behavior, and the extrinsic effects of population dynamics are discussed. Particular attention is given to the effects of age (mortality), female receptivity, population density, unusual reproductive patterns, and sexual selection.
IMMUNOLOGIC ASPECTS OF HUMAN REAGINIC ALLERGY: AN IN VITRO METHOD AND SOME APPLICATIONS.

Suspensions of human leukocytes have been used for in vitro studies of reaginic allergy. These cells when isolated from ragweed sensitive patients, release histamine on reaction with antigen at threshold levels of 10−6 μg. The release process is characterized by a lag phase and a requirement for both calcium and magnesium. The divalent metal requirement has been observed throughout the reaction course. Physiologically competent cells are required for the release process, since cells subjected to 40°C, or treated with di-isopropylfluorophosphate show an impaired response. On these grounds, it has been concluded that the release process is a multi-step phenomenon and that the passage of histamine to the extracellular environment cannot be accounted for in terms of diffusion following membrane injury. Human leukocytes carry γ-globulins which can react with specific antibody in complement fixation, or in histamine release experiments.
Multiplexed electrochemical immunosensor for label-free detection of cardiac markers using a carbon nanofiber array chip

Abstract We present an electrochemical multianalyte or multiplexed immunosensor for simultaneous label free detection of cardiac markers panel, comprising of C-reactive protein, cardiac troponin-I and myoglobin. The multi-electrode biosensor chip contains nine identical but electrically isolated microelectrodes arranged in a 3 × 3 array configuration. Each electrode contains carbon nanofiber nanoelectrodes grown vertically using plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition. A hydrophobic photoresist layer, lithographically etched on the chip, exposes the electrodes and helps to selectively immobilize the antibody probes for the three target cardiac biomarkers using carbodiimide chemistry. The real-time label free detection of the three cardiac markers from a mixture is demonstrated with high sensitivity and selectivity. Detection in complex protein mixtures in human blood serum does not show any false positives from non-specific protein adsorption. The results show that the present sensor can serve as a miniaturized, low cost lab-on-a-chip system for the detection of various biomarkers in healthcare, environmental monitoring and security applications.
Studying Learning at Scale with the ASSISTments TestBed

An interactive demonstration on how to design and implement randomized controlled experiments at scale within the ASSISTments TestBed, a new collaborative for educational research funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF). The Assessment of Learning infrastructure (ALI), a unique data retrieval and analysis tool, is also demonstrated.
Layering parameters design of laminated wing covering board based on particle swarm algorithm

In the design of composite material wing covering,the problems of stability of upper cover and inside surface rigidity have at all times been emphatically followed closely.For the sake of researching the influences of cover layering parameters on cover stability and inside surface rigidity,this paper established the multi-target optimization model of weighted ideal point method based on particle swarm algorithm.And under the premise of not increasing the structural weight on the laminated wing covering board to carried out multi-target optimization design on the rigidity and stability of cover.The being put forward weighted ideal point method could make the multi-target problems be transformed more nimbly and tersely into problems of single-target optimization.Directed towards the characteristics of laminated board optimization,the strategy of self-adaptable inertia weighting and variation has been introduced into the standard particle swarm algorithm,thus enhanced the accuracy of optimization.Finally the optimal calculation was carried out on four kinds of cover laminated boards.The obtained data bears referencing values on the design of layering parameters of laminated wing covering board in engineering practicality.
Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia and evidence-based medicine.

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether protocols for the management of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia conform to the principles of evidence-based medicine. STUDY DESIGN: Protocols for the management of low-and high-risk gestational trophoblastic neoplasia were examined to determine to what extent they conformed to the principles of evidence-based medicine. RESULTS: Nearly all current chemotherapy regimens for gestational trophoblastic neoplasia are based on the experience of management of various risk groups, variously defined. Some prospective, randomized studies were flawed by faulty selection criteria. Local population variations may influence the results of management. CONCLUSION: The management of trophoblastic neoplasia is based on physician experience. Nearly all prospective, randomized studies have been flawed. There is a need for carefully planned prospective studies with stringent inclusion criteria to determine the most effective and cost-effective and least toxic therapy, particularly for low-risk neoplasia.
Abstract 4226: The rodent eye as a non-invasive window for understanding cancer nanotherapeutics

We have successfully used the mouse eye as a non-surgical window for highly efficient, optical investigation of xenograft models, using a state-of-the-art ocular imaging facility, the UC Davis “EyePod”. The EyePod employs single-cell resolution intravital confocal microscopy and optical coherence tomography, performed completely non-invasively through the natural optics of the eye (1). This technology enables repeatable in vivo imaging over days, weeks and even months, quantitative tracking of tumor development and delivery of theranostic nanoparticles, and the measurement of tumor and tumor microenvironment responses. Moreover, the retina is a highly “approachable part of the brain”, so that non-invasive study of ocular tumors provides a platform for examining such critical issues as drug delivery across the blood retinal barrier (BRB) and blood brain barrier (BBB). Clinical metastasis of solid tumor to the uvea is not uncommon. Therefore, uvea/subretinal xenograft implant, even though not orthotopic, is clinically relevant. To visualize and photo-manipulate nanoparticle delivery to intraocular xenograft, we have used our recently reported nanoporphyrin (2) as the model system. This novel multifunctional porphyrin-based micellar nanoplatform allows (i) efficient encapsulation of hydrophobic chemotherapeutic drugs or fluorescent dyes, (ii) near-infra red fluorescent (NIRF) detection of the tumor via the intrinsic fluorescence of porphyrins, (iii) photodynamic therapy (PDT) and photothermal therapy (PTT) via efficient free radical and heat generation at the tumor site, respectively. Thorough understanding of how this nanocarrier distributes within the tumor microenvironment, and how it responds to controlled optical stimulation will enable us to maximize its therapeutic potential as a nano-theranostic agent. Preliminary FRET study with doxorubicin-loaded nanoporphyrin has allowed us to visualize in vivo and in real time the release of doxorubicin at the tumor site upon illumination with 680nm laser. In addition, the EyePod has enabled us to follow the tumor response over a period of 35 days. Work is currently underway to (i) develop patient-derived xenograft (PDX) model in the eye of NSG mice, and (ii) use EyePod to study the effect of tumor targeting and brain endothelial cell targeting peptides, recently developed in our laboratory, for nanodelivery into the tumor cells and across the BRB. Citation Format: Xinlei Wang, Wenwu Xiao, Yuanpei Li, Pengfei Zhang, Mayank Goswami, Robert J. Zawadzki, Edward N. Pugh, Kit S. Lam. The rodent eye as a non-invasive window for understanding cancer nanotherapeutics. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 107th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2016 Apr 16-20; New Orleans, LA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(14 Suppl):Abstract nr 4226.
Anterior segment optical coherence tomography in subtypes of angle closure glaucoma.

Primary angle-closure glaucoma (ACG) is a serious ocular health care problem especially in Asia, increasing in prevalence as one moves towards the Eastern part of Asia.1 The disease causes a significant burden of blindness and visual disability in regions where it is most prevalent. With the advent of SD-OCTs, anterior and posterior segment mechanisms of the disease have been better elucidated. However, like primary open-angle glaucoma, ACG likely represents different phenotypes yet to be identified through research on the genetics. In the meantime, significant amount of ongoing research is devoted to better understanding the contribution of various well-defined mechanisms to pathophysiology of the disease in various clinically-defined ACG subtypes. The article by Moghimi et al provides us with additional information in this regard.
Placement and sizing of parallel reactive power compensation in the presence of distributed generation for line loss reduction

This paper investigates the problem of placement and sizing of large scale utility owned distributed generator (DG units) and parallel reactive power compensation to achieve a high loss reduction in large-scale primary distribution networks. The paper adopts a probabilistic approach to detect the candidate line to install DG (Line with the highest losses). In addition, a method to quantify reactive power compensation requirements for DG installation based on a desired line loss reduction percentage is proposed. IEEE 5-Bus test system is used as a test system in this study. Simulation results have demonstrated the effectiveness of the proposed methodology.
A Model Curriculum for Developing Teaching Competencies in Future Medical Educators

The Advanced Teaching in Gross Anatomy elective course is designed to help second-year students pursuing an anatomy master’s degree to develop expertise in teaching. A key innovation allows student educators (SEs) to develop core teaching competencies in an authentic classroom setting by offering the elective concurrently with a first-year graduate course in gross anatomy. Each curricular component targets one or more teaching competencies: content knowledge, learner-centeredness, interpersonal and communication skills, professionalism and role modeling, practice-based reflection, and systems-based practice. Readings, seminars, and interactive and application-based activities such as the development and delivery of a regional anatomy lecture with associated learning objectives and assessment tool, creation and delivery of an active learning review, and production of a teaching philosophy statement are used to introduce and apply evidence-based educational strategies, while also situating future educators within the larger systems of anatomy and medical education today. Iterative multi-source feedback and deliberate practice skills are modeled and applied throughout the elective. From 2014 to 2016, 11 SEs completed the elective; 82% returned pre- and post-course surveys. Self-reported confidence in eight educational skills significantly increased after the course (p < 0.01), demonstrating the educational impact of the elective. Data collected from teaching evaluations indicate the high quality of the lectures and active learning reviews by the SEs. The curriculum model could be easily adapted to train future educators at different levels of their career (i.e., master’s, doctoral, post-doctoral) across all sub-fields of anatomical sciences and other basic medical sciences. Widespread adoption of this model curriculum in science graduate program would expand the educational training available to future medical educators and over time, improve the quality of medical education.
Eigenvalues of LRU via a linear algebraic approach

Abstract In this short paper we analyze the Markov Chain associated with Least Recently Used (LRU) cache replacement scheme. The eigenvalues and their multiplicities of this chain are determined using basic linear algebra along with induction.
Methods and Approaches to Using Web Archives in Computational Communication Research

This article examines the role of web archives as a critical source of data for conducting computational communication research. Web archives are large-scale databases containing comprehensive reco...
Is an Abstract Game or a Role-Play Simulation Better to Explore Anarchy, Cooperation, and Conflict in World Politics?

Since 2007 I have utilized Joseph K. Young’s two-level Prisoner’s Dilemma (PD) game in my introductory world politics courses. The one negative comment that has repeated itself during the past four years is that the game is too abstract, that students would prefer to negotiate over something concrete. This led me to construct a study exploring whether a role-play simulation would be better than an abstract game, in helping students to achieve the learning objectives. My expectation is that a game is better than a simulation in helping students to better understand the concepts of anarchy, international conflict, and international cooperation.
Annotation propagation in large image databases via dense image correspondence

Our goal is to automatically annotate many images with a set of word tags and a pixel-wise map showing where each word tag occurs. Most previous approaches rely on a corpus of training images where each pixel is labeled. However, for large image databases, pixel labels are expensive to obtain and are often unavailable. Furthermore, when classifying multiple images, each image is typically solved for independently, which often results in inconsistent annotations across similar images. In this work, we incorporate dense image correspondence into the annotation model, allowing us to make do with significantly less labeled data and to resolve ambiguities by propagating inferred annotations from images with strong local visual evidence to images with weaker local evidence. We establish a large graphical model spanning all labeled and unlabeled images, then solve it to infer annotations, enforcing consistent annotations over similar visual patterns. Our model is optimized by efficient belief propagation algorithms embedded in an expectation-maximization (EM) scheme. Extensive experiments are conducted to evaluate the performance on several standard large-scale image datasets, showing that the proposed framework outperforms state-of-the-art methods.
Delay Differential Equations

The purpose of these lectures is to survey parts of the theory of delay differential equations and functional differential equations that have been used or may be used in the modeling of biological phenomena. In the course of doing so, reference will be made from time to time to specific applications in biology, but primarily to illustrate the mathematical techniques. No attempt will be made to survey comprehensively any particular field in biology, since other lecturers here are doing so. We shall try to begin with elementary concepts of the theory, and yet to present some of the most recent results.
Introduction and Description of Experimental Ecosystems

The Symposium on Enclosed Marine Experimental Ecosystems took place over 4 days between 13-16 August 1980 at the Institute of Ocean Sciences, which overlooks Saanich Inlet (Sidney, British Columbia, Canada). The location was the site of the CEPEX program (Controlled Ecosystem Pollution, later Populations, Experiment) during its 6 years of operation and had come to be associated with large enclosure work in the minds of many Symposium attendees, either through direct participation, or as visitors over this period. The Symposium was sponsored by the U.S. National Science Foundation as part of its final year of support to the CEPEX program and by the Canadian Research Council. The gathering attracted about 100 participants from 9 countries, and 45 papers were presented.
Applications of Graph Connectivity to Network Security

Abstract The performance and resilience of communication networks is intimately tied to their underlying topological structure. Networks whose topological graphs do not exhibit sufficient interconnection are brittle and can be easily broken by network attacks that break links or remove nodes from the network. In this chapter, we explore the notion of network connectivity as quantified by the Fiedler value. We illustrate how it can be used by an adversary to determine locations where to attack a communication network and, conversely, how it can be used by network defense protocols to strengthen the network, thereby providing resilience to network attacks.
Assessment of molecular measures in non-FXTAS male premutation carriers

Approximately 30-40% of male and 8-16% of female carriers of the Fragile X premutation will develop a neurodegenerative movement disorder characterized by intentional tremor, gait ataxia, autonomic dysfunction, cognitive decline, and Parkinsonism during their lifetime. At the molecular level, premutation carriers have increased expression levels of the FMR1 and the antisense FMR1 (ASFMR1) mRNAs. Both genes undergo alternative splicing giving rise to a number of different transcripts. Alteration in the alternative splicing process might be associated with FXTAS. In this study, we have investigated the correlation between objective measures of movement (balance and tremor using the CATSYS battery) and the expression of both the FMR1 and the ASFMR1 genes. In addition, we investigated whether their expression level and that of the ASFMR1 131 bp splice isoform could distinguish between premutation carriers with FXTAS and non-FXTAS premutation carriers. Confirming previous findings, the expression levels of transcripts at the FMR1 locus positively correlated with the CGG repeat number and significantly differentiated the premutation carriers from the control groups. Furthermore, premutation carriers with and without FXTAS, showed a significant difference in the expression level of the ASFMR1 131 bp splice isoform when compared to age and gender matched controls. However, there was no significant difference in the ASFMR1 131 bp splice isoform expression level when comparing premutation carriers with and without FXTAS. Finally, our results indicate significant group differences in CATSYS dominant hand reaction time and postural sway with eyes closed in premutation carriers without FXTAS compared to controls. In addition, a significant inverse association between the tremor intensity and the expression level of ASFMR1 131 bp splice isoform in premutation carriers compared to controls, was observed, suggesting a potential role in the pathogenesis of FXTAS.
Polymicrobial Infections in Hip Arthroplasty: Lower Treatment Success Rate, Increased Surgery, and Longer Hospitalization

Abstract Background Polymicrobial hip arthroplasty infections are a subset of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) with distinct challenges representing 10%-47% of PJI. Methods Records were reviewed from all PJIs involving partial or total hip arthroplasty with positive hip cultures between 2005 and 2015 in order to determine baseline characteristics and outcomes including treatment success, surgeries for infection, and days in hospital for infection. Analysis was restricted to patients who had at least 2 years of follow-up after their final surgery or hospitalization for infection. Factors with P-value less than .05 in univariate outcomes analysis were included in multivariable models. Results After multivariable analysis, 28 of 95 hip arthroplasty PJIs which were polymicrobial were associated with significantly lower treatment success, more surgery, and longer hospitalizations compared to PJIs which were not polymicrobial. Patients diagnosed with polymicrobial infection later in treatment (4 of 28) had the lowest treatment success rate, underwent the most surgery, and spent the longest time in hospital. Conclusion Polymicrobial periprosthetic hip infection is a particularly devastating complication of hip arthroplasty associated with decreased likelihood of treatment success, increased surgery for infection, and greater time in hospital. Patients with late polymicrobial infection had the worst outcomes. This investigation further characterizes the natural history of periprosthetic hip infections with more than one infectious organism. Patients who present with a subsequent polymicrobial infection should be educated that they have a particularly difficult treatment course and treatment success may not be possible.
Detection of Mg2+-dependent, coaxial stacking rearrangements in a bulged three-way DNA junction by single-molecule FRET.

Abstract Three-way helical junctions (3WJs) arise in genetic processing, and they have architectural and functional roles in structured nucleic acids. An internal bulge at the junction core allows the helical domains to become oriented into two possible, coaxially stacked conformers. Here, the helical stacking arrangements for a series of bulged, DNA 3WJs were examined using ensemble fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) and single-molecule FRET (smFRET) approaches. The 3WJs varied according to the GC content and sequence of the junction core as well as the pyrimidine content of the internal bulge. Mg2+ titration experiments by ensemble FRET show that both stacking conformations have similar Mg2+ requirements for folding. Strikingly, smFRET experiments reveal that a specific junction sequence can populate both conformers and that this junction undergoes continual interconversion between the two stacked conformers. These findings will support the development of folding principles for the rational design of functional DNA nanostructures.
Evidence to the role of interflavan linkages and galloylation of proanthocyanidins at sustaining long-term dentin biomodification.

Abstract Objectives The interactivity of proanthocyanidins (PACs) with collagen modulates dentin matrix biomechanics and biostability. Herein, PAC extracts selected based on structural diversity were investigated to determine key PAC features driving sustained effects on dentin matrices over a period of 18 months. Methods The chemical profiles of PAC-rich plant sources, Pinus massoniana (PM), Cinnamomum verum (CV) and Hamamelis virginiana (HV) barks, as well as Vitis vinifera (VV) seeds, were obtained by diol HPLC analysis after partitioning of the extracts between methyl acetate and water. Dentin matrices (n = 15) were prepared from human molars to determine the apparent modulus of elasticity over 18 months of aging. Susceptibility of the dentin matrix to degradation by endogenous and exogenous proteases was determined by presence of solubilized collagen in supernatant, and resistance to degradation by bacterial collagenase, respectively. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and Games–Howell post hoc tests (α = 0.05). Results After 18 months, dentin matrices modified by PM and CV extracts, containing only non-galloylated PACs, were highly stable mechanically (p Significance Resistance against long-term degradation was observed for all experimental groups; however, the most potent and long-lasting dentin biomodification resulted from non-galloylated PACs.
Message Passing Algorithm for the Generalized Assignment Problem

The generalized assignment problem (GAP) is NP-hard. It is even APX-hard to approximate it. The best known approximation algorithm is the LP-rounding algorithm in [1] with a \((1-\frac{1}{e})\) approximation ratio. We investigate the max-product belief propagation algorithm for the GAP, which is suitable for distributed implementation. The basic algorithm passes an exponential number of real-valued messages in each iteration. We show that the algorithm can be simplified so that only a linear number of real-valued messages are passed in each iteration. In particular, the computation of the messages from machines to jobs decomposes into two knapsack problems, which are also present in each iteration of the LP-rounding algorithm. The messages can be computed in parallel at each iteration. We observe that for small instances of GAP where the optimal solution can be computed, the message passing algorithm converges to the optimal solution when it is unique. We then show how to add small deterministic perturbations to ensure the uniqueness of the optimum. Finally, we prove GAP remains strongly NP-hard even if the optimum is unique.
A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing the Effectiveness of Lung Expansion Therapy Following Upper Abdominal Surgery in Adult Human Subjects

Background: Lung expansion therapy (LET) is often ordered after surgery to improve alveolar ventilation and reduce risks of postoperative pulmonary complications (PPC). The impact of LET at altering distribution of ventilation in non-intubated patients has not been described. The primary purpose of this study is to determine if there is a difference in dorsal redistribution of ventilation and incidences of PPCs when comparing Incentive Spirometry (IS) to EzPAP LET after upper abdominal surgery. Our a priori null hypothesis is that there are no differences. Methods: This IRB approved prospective randomized controlled trial enrolled adult human subjects who underwent upper abdominal surgery from January 2017 to April 2018. Subjects were allocated to receive LET with IS targeting predicted inspiratory capacity or EzPAP targeting 15 cm H2O TID on postoperative days (POD) 1-5. An electrical impedance tomography (EIT) device (Pulmovista 500; Draeger) was connected to subjects for a single LET session on POD 1, 3, and 5 to measure baseline changes in post-LET dorsal end-expiratory lung impedance (ΔEELI %). LET sessions with EIT included 2-min normal breathing, 3 breath cycles x 10 breaths, and 2-min normal breathing after breath cycle 3. The EIT device was removed after POD monitoring sessions but LET continued as scheduled. PPCs were screened until hospital discharge. Mann-Whitney U, x2, and Fisher9s exact tests were applied as appropriate. Data are reported as count (n), percent, and median [IQR]. Alpha (2-tail) is Results: 81 subjects were enrolled to receive IS (n=41) or EzPAP (n=40) LET. Groups were equal for descriptive characteristics such as age (62 [52-71] y), sex (57% female), BMI (28. 1 [24. 7-33.6]), ARISCAT PPC risk index (Score=41; intermediate risk) and comorbidities (P > .05). Whipple (38%) and hepatic resection (30%) accounted for the majority of surgical procedures. Protocol adherence (93% vs 89%, P = .39) and study dropout (4% vs 1%, P= .37) was similar between groups. Post-LET dorsal ΔEELI % increased for both groups, but median dorsal ΔEELI % for IS and EzPAP on POD 1 (16% vs 13%, P= .42), POD 3 (5% vs 6%, P= .42), and POD 5 (12% vs 9%, P= .95) was not significantly different. Hospital length of stay (4 d, P= .79) and incidence of PPCs (1% vs 4%, P= .19) was also similar. Conclusions: There is no difference in post-LET dorsal redistribution of ventilation or incidence of PPCs among adults who receive IS or EzPAP TID after upper abdominal surgery.
Public Discussion Affects Question Asking at Academic Conferences

Women are under-represented in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Despite the recent emphasis on diversity in STEM, our understanding of what drives differences between women and men scientists remains limited. This, in turn, limits our ability to intervene to level the playing field. To quantify the representation and participation of women and men at academic meetings in human genetics, we developed high-throughput and crowd-sourced approaches focused on question-asking behavior. Question asking is one voluntary and self-initiated scientific activity we can measure. Here we report that women ask fewer questions than expected regardless of their representation in talk audiences. We present evidence that external barriers affect the representation of women in STEM. However, differences in question-asking behavior suggest that internal factors also impact women's participation. We then examine the effects of specific interventions and show that wide public discussion of the relative under-participation of women in question-and-answer sessions alters question-asking behavior. We suggest that engaging the community in such projects promotes visibility of diversity issues at academic meetings and allows for efficient data collection that can be used to further explore and understand differences in conference participation.
A Decision Support Framework for Resilience-Oriented Cost-Effective Distributed Generation Expansion in Power Systems

Resilience of electricity grids to rare but severely disruptive events, such as natural disasters, has emerged in recent years as an important aspect in power system planning. Development of resilience-oriented techniques are needed due to the limitations of reliability-oriented methods in addressing large unexpected outages. This article presents a novel decision analysis approach to enhance the resilience of a power distribution system by leveraging the distributed nature of solar photovoltaic (PV) and battery energy storage system (BESS) resources. The proposed decision-making framework uses an analytic hierarchy process to evaluate different possible allocations of PV and BESS resources to load buses for multiple contingencies based on resilience enhancement and cost. Each allocation plan provides the size of PV arrays and BESS units to be installed at each bus within the distribution system. A deterministic formulation ranks line outage scenarios based on unserved load. The tradeoff between cost and resilience is modeled via cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) that indicates the preferability of each allocation plan. The main contribution of this article is the development of an adaptable and computationally feasible decision support framework to determine cost-effective configurations of PV arrays and BESSs for mitigating the effects of power line outage contingencies. To evaluate the proposed framework, a case study is carried out on the IEEE 33-bus radial distribution system. The results show that the proposed method can offer effective guidance to the planner for making informed investment decisions and achieving cost-effective resilience enhancement.