cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
SyncCast: synchronized dissemination in multi-site interactive 3D tele-immersion

An ideal interactive 3D tele-immersion (3DTI) system is expected to disseminate and synchronize multi-streams with a shortest-possible latency among participating sites, achieve inter-stream synchronization, and bound both inter-sender and inter-receiver skews. This is, however, a key challenge because of (1) the coexistence of multi-modal, correlated, bandwidth-savvy streams from multiple source media, (2) the bounded bandwidth resources at each site, (3) the heterogeneous transmission end-to-end delays (EED) between sites and (4) the diversity of 3D views requested by multiple users. Our study of the existing content dissemination topologies reveals their inadequacy of handlings the complication and dynamics present in 3DTI systems.In this paper, we propose SyncCast, a multi-stream multicast dissemination scheme that takes into account the bandwidth constraint, as well as the inter-stream, inter-sender and inter-receiver synchronization. We classify the 3DTI media streams into different service classes based on the users' visual interests. SyncCast is designed to address the interactions among EED, synchronization and bandwidth in the real-world Internet settings. We compare SyncCast and our previous ViewCast algorithm. The simulation results show the improvement in the synchronization performance and the implementation feasibility of SyncCast in supporting the multi-site interactive 3DTI system.
Amharic Poetry of the Ethiopian Diaspora in America: A Sampler

This essay offers the first English-language translations of Amharic poetry written by Ethiopian immigrants to the United States. Following an introduction to the Amharic language and the central place of poetry in Ethiopian literature and cultural life, the author discusses the work of four poets. The poems of Tewodros Abebe, Amha Asfaw, Alemayehu Gebrehiwot, and Alemtsehay Wedajo make creative use of Ethiopian verbal constructions reminiscent of traditional war songs and verbal interrogations used in legal contexts. Many of the poems speak eloquently of the personal losses Ethiopians have suffered as a result of their departure from their homeland. The essay includes biographical and ethnographic details about the individual poets and various influences on their compositions. (April 2009)
Modeling and Near-Space Stationkeeping Control of a Large High-Altitude Airship

3andissolarelectricpowered,with the entire upper surface covered by solar cells. Electric motors and propellers provide propulsion, and batteries are used for power storage. In this paper, the vehicle’s surge and directional dynamics are characterized, the wind environmentismodeled,andsimplecontrolandguidancealgorithmsaredevelopedandevaluated.Inparticular,the maneuvering power required is statistically determined, using a covariance analysis. It is shown that the vehicle is dynamically stable and sluggish, and that significant thrust and control power may be required to stationkeep in turbulence. This additional maneuvering power required may be a significant design driver.
Gestalt grouping and common onset masking

A four-dot mask that surrounds and is presented simultaneously with a briefly presented target will reduce a person’s ability to identity that target if the mask persists beyond target offset and attention is divided (Enns & Di Lollo, 1997, 2000).This masking effect, referred to as common onset masking, reflectsreentrant processing in the visual systemand can best be explained with a theory of object substitution (Di Lollo, Enns, & Rensink, 2000).In the present experiments, we investigatedwhether Gestalt grouping variables would influence the strength of common onset masking.The results indicated that (1) masking was impervious to grouping by form, similarity of color, position, luminance polarity, and common region and (2) masking increased with the number of elements in the masking display.
Auditory saccades from different eye positions in the monkey: implications for coordinate transformations.

Auditory spatial information arises in a head-centered coordinate frame, whereas the saccade command signals generated by the superior colliculus (SC) are thought to specify target locations in an ...
Patient-physician gender concordance and weight-related counseling of obese patients.

Background Obesity affects approximately one third of Americans. Patient and provider characteristics such as gender may influence obesity care. Gender concordance has been associated with clinical practice patterns in chronic conditions such as hypertension and diabetes, but its role in obesity care is unknown. Purpose The purpose of this study was to investigate the association of patient–physician gender concordance with weight-related counseling among obese adults. Methods A cross-sectional study using the 2005–2007 National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey was conducted in 2010. Postvisit data from the clinical encounters of 5667 obese individuals and their physicians were analyzed to determine the association between patient–physician gender concordance (categorized using patient gender as the reference point as female gender-concordant, male gender-concordant, male gender-discordant, and female gender-discordant) and three types of weight-related counseling (diet/nutrition, exercise, and weight reduction). Results Diet/nutrition, exercise, and weight reduction counseling was provided to 30%, 23%, and 20% of obese patients, respectively. Patients in male gender-concordant patient–physician pairs had significantly higher adjusted odds of receiving diet/nutrition (OR=1.58, 95% CI=1.05, 2.40) and exercise counseling (OR=1.76, 95% CI=1.13, 2.74) than female gender-concordant pairs. There were no significant differences in any form of weight-related counseling between female gender-concordant and gender-discordant pairs. Conclusions The findings of this study suggest that male patient–physician gender concordance is positively associated with diet/nutrition and exercise counseling.
A constrained weighted least squares approach for time-frequency distribution kernel design

In most applications of time-frequency (t-f) distributions, the t-f kernel is of finite extent and applied to discrete time signals. This paper introduces a matrix-based approach for t-f distribution kernel design. In this new approach, the optimum kernel is obtained as the solution of a linearly constrained weighted least squares minimization problem in which the kernel is vectorial and the constraints form a linear subspace. Similar to FIR temporal and spatial constrained least squares (LS) design methods, the passband, stopband, and transition band of an ideal kernel are first specified. The optimum kernel that best approximates the ideal kernel in the LS error sense, and simultaneously satisfies the multiple linear constraints, is then obtained using closed-form expressions. This proposed design method embodies a well-structured procedure for obtaining fixed and data-dependent kernels that are difficult to obtain using other design approaches.
Optimal joint base station assignment and downlink beamforming for heterogeneous networks

Consider a MIMO heterogeneous network with multiple transmitters (including macro, pico and femto base stations) and many receivers (mobile users). The users are to be assigned to the base stations which then optimize their linear transmit beamformers accordingly. In this work, we consider the problem of joint base station assignment and linear beamformer design to maximize a system wide utility. We first establish the NP-hardness of the resulting optimization problem for a large family of a-fairness utility functions. Then, we propose an efficient algorithm to approximately solve this problem for the special case of sum rate maximization. The simulation results show that the algorithm improves the sum rate.
A Unitary Healing Praxis Model for Women in Despair

The evolution of a unitary healing praxis model derived from three unitary appreciative inquiries of despair is described. Explication of unitary appreciative inquiry and how it informed and contributed to the development of the model is provided. The model is based on a conceptualization of healing as appreciating the inherent wholeness of life and provides knowledge specific to the individual lives of women in despair. The process of generative theorizing that led to the creation of the model is explicated. Unitary, appreciative, and participatory responses to despair are integrated in the model, praxis modalities are delineated, key concerns and perspectives of women in despair are addressed, and potentialities for healing are illustrated.
Isolation, characterization, and functional expression of cDNAs encoding NADH-dependent methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase from higher plants.

Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) is the least understood enzyme of folate-mediated one-carbon metabolism in plants. Genomics-based approaches were used to identify one maize and two Arabidopsis cDNAs specifying proteins homologous to MTHFRs from other organisms. These cDNAs encode functional MTHFRs, as evidenced by their ability to complement a yeast met12 met13 mutant, and by the presence of MTHFR activity in extracts of complemented yeast cells. Deduced sequence analysis shows that the plant MTHFR polypeptides are of similar size (66 kDa) and domain structure to other eukaryotic MTHFRs, and lack obvious targeting sequences. Southern analyses and genomic evidence indicate thatArabidopsis has two MTHFR genes and that maize has at least two. A carboxyl-terminal polyhistidine tag was added to oneArabidopsis MTHFR, and used to purify the enzyme 640-fold to apparent homogeneity. Size exclusion chromatography and denaturing gel electrophoresis of the recombinant enzyme indicate that it exists as a dimer of ≈66-kDa subunits. Unlike mammalian MTHFR, the plant enzymes strongly prefer NADH to NADPH, and are not inhibited byS-adenosylmethionine. An NADH-dependent MTHFR reaction could be reversible in plant cytosol, where the NADH/NAD ratio is 10−3. Consistent with this, leaf tissues metabolized [methyl-14C]methyltetrahydrofolate to serine, sugars, and starch. A reversible MTHFR reaction would obviate the need for inhibition by S-adenosylmethionine to prevent excessive conversion of methylene- to methyltetrahydrofolate.
Rapid screening of bimetallic electrocatalysts for oxygen reduction in acidic media by scanning electrochemical microscopy

Additional bimetallic electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction ORR in acidic media were designed using a previously reported thermodynamic selection guide. The electrocatalyst mixtures were prepared in large arrays on glassy carbon substrates and the electrocatalytic activity was screened using scanning electrochemical microscopy SECM. Activities were measured for a range of bimetallic combinations that showed a synergetic electrocatalytic effect during screening, including Au–V, Ag–V, Pd–Mn, and Pd–V. Upon initial screening, a highly active electrocatalytic combination consisting of 60:40 Pd–V was identified. Using rotating disk electrode RDE experiments, the high activity of this combination for the ORR in acidic media was confirmed when the electrocatalysts were supported on Vulcan carbon. The electrocatalytic activity of Pd–V was close to that exhibited by Pt, the electrocatalyst of choice for the ORR in acidic media, and thus is another example of a nonplatinum catalyst with high activity that follows the previous strategy for catalyst design.
Influence of Corn Phenology on Adult Western Corn Rootworm (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) Distribution

Abstract Field studies were designed to more clearly determine how adult western corn rootworm, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte, population distribution patterns are altered over time by changes and contrasts in corn (Zea mays L.) plant phenology using whole-plant beetle counts as the sampling tool. In 1994, studies were conducted in a model system consisting of a late-planted corn strip placed in the middle of an early-planted cornfield. The system was replicated over three fields. Large-scale variation was modeled using trend-surface regression analysis to describe the relationship between beetle counts and distance from the center of the late-planted strip. In each field, the beetle distribution became greatly skewed toward the late-planted strip when the strip was either in the tassel or silk stage and the surrounding field was ≥ blister stage. In 1995, studies were conducted in and at the interface of two adjacent cornfields that were planted 9 d apart. Count data were analyzed to quantify pop...
Differential Game-Theoretic Approach to a Spatial Jamming Problem

In this work, we investigate the effect of an aerial jamming attack on the communication network of a team of UAVs flying in a formation. We propose a communication and motion model for the UAVs. The communication model provides a relation in the spatial domain for effective jamming by an aerial intruder. We formulate the problem as a zero-sum pursuit-evasion game. In our earlier work, we used Isaacs’ approach to obtain motion strategies for a pair of UAVs to evade the jamming attack. We also provided motion strategies for an aerial intruder to jam the communication between a pair of UAVs. In this work, we extend the analysis to multiple jammers and multiple UAVs flying in a formation. We analyze the problem in the framework of differential game theory, and provide analytical and approximate techniques to compute non-singular motion strategies of the UAVs.
Regulation of gamma-secretase activating protein by the 5Lipoxygenase: in vitro and in vivo evidence

The formation of Aβ is directly controlled by the γ-secretase complex and its activator, γ-secretase activating protein (GSAP). GSAP derives from a C-terminal fragment of a larger precursor protein via a caspase-3 mediated cleavage. However, the mechanism regulating this process remains unknown. Here we provide in vitro experimental evidence that 5-Lipoxygenase (5LO) is as an endogenous regulator for GSAP formation, but not for other known γ-secretase modulators, by directly and specifically activating caspase-3. These results were confirmed in vivo by using transgenic mouse models of Alzheimer’s disease in which 5LO level and activity were modulated genetically or pharmacologically. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that GSAP cleavage via caspase-3 is regulated and depend upon the availability of 5LO further establishing this protein as an attractive and viable therapeutic target for Alzheimer’s disease.
Absorption of Infrared Radiation by CO 2 and H 2 O. II. Absorption by CO 2 between 8000 and 10 000 cm −1 (1–1.25 Microns)*

Transmission spectra of several samples of pure CO2 have been obtained in the 8000–10 000 cm−1 (1–1.25 μ) region. Sample path lengths were varied from 16.5 to 933 m, and pressures from approximately 1 to 14.6 atm. Each of the important absorption bands has been identified and its strength determined. The average half-width, at one atmosphere pressure, of lines P8–P32 of the 0203 band has been found to be approximately 0.092 cm−1, with some evidence of a slight decrease with increasing J. Several replotted spectral curves are included, as are tables of the integrated absorptance.
Autonomic Evaluation of Patients With Gastroparesis and Neurostimulation: Comparisons of Direct/Systemic and Indirect/Cardiac Measures.

Background: Disorders of nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and related problems often are manifestations of gastrointestinal, neuromuscular, and/or autonomic dysfunction. Many of these patients respond to neurostimulation, either gastric electrical stimulation or electroacupuncture. Both of these therapeutic techniques appear to influence the autonomic nervous system which can be evaluated directly by traditional testing and indirectly by heart rate variability. Methods: We studied patients undergoing gastric neuromodulation by both systemic autonomic testing (39 patients, six males and 33 females, mean age 38 years) and systemic autonomic testing and heart rate variability (35 patients, seven males and 28 females, mean age 37 years) testing before and after gastric neuromodulation. We also performed a pilot study using both systemic autonomic testing and heart rate variability in a small number of patients (five patients, all females, mean age 48.6 years) with diabetic gastroparesis at baseline to compare the two techniques at baseline. Systemic autonomic testing and heart rate variability were performed with standardized techniques and gastric electrical stimulation was performed as previously described with electrodes implanted serosally in the myenteric plexus. Results: Both systemic autonomic testing and heart rate variability measures were often abnormal at baseline and showed changes after gastric neuromodulation therapy in two groups of symptomatic patients. Pilot data on a small group of similar patients with systemic automatic nervous measures and heart rate variability showed good concordance between the two techniques. Conclusions: Both traditional direct autonomic measures and indirect measures such as heart rate variability were evaluated, including a pilot study of both methods in the same patient group. Both appear to be useful in evaluation of patients at baseline and after stimulation therapies; however, a future full head-to-head comparison is warranted. Gastroenterol Res. 2016;9(1):10-16 doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.14740/gr667w
Some Properties of Spaces of Uniformly Quasi-Continuous Functions

(1969). Some Properties of Spaces of Uniformly Quasi-Continuous Functions. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 76, No. 5, pp. 489-494.
Predicting maize agriculture among the Fremont: An economic comparison of farming and foraging in the American Southwest

Variation in the costs and benefits of maize agriculture relative to local foraging opportunities structured variation in the relative intensity of agricultural strategies pursued by prehistoric peoples in the American Southwest. The material remains of Fremont farmers and horticulturists, long identified as the "northern periphery" of Southwestern archaeological traditions, are examined as a case representing extreme intersite variation in the economic importance of farming. New data quantifying the energetic gains associated with maize agriculture in Latin America are compared to caloric return rates for hunting and collecting indigenous foods. These data suggest that prehistoric maize farming was economically comparable to many local wild plants, but that intensive farming practices were most similar to very low-ranked seeds. The model predicts a continuum of pre-historic strategies that included horticulture within a system of indigenous resource collection and high residential mobility at one end, and at the other sedentary farmers heavily invested in agricultural activities with residences maintained near fields during a significant portion of the growing season. Differences in agricultural strategies should have been strongly influenced by the effects of local ecology on the marginal gains for time spent in maize fields and the abundance of key, high-ranked wild foods, not harvest yields per se. Increasing agricultural investments are expected with decreasing opportunities to collect higher-ranked foods, while decreases in time spent farming are expected only with increases in alternative economic opportunities.
Silicon in a Negatively Charged Shell: Anions of Spirosilabifluorene

Mono- and dianions of a polycyclic compound with a central sp3-hybridized silicon atom, spirosilabifluorene (C24H16Si, 1), were prepared by reduction with alkali metals. The salts containing 1•– and 12– anions were isolated and studied by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The lithium salt of the C24H16Si•– radical monoanion ([Li(THF)4+][1•–], 2) exists as a solvent-separated ion pair in the solid state. Substantially different geometrical parameters were found for each of the fluorene groups within the C24H16Si•– anion of 2 due to asymmetric charge distribution. The C24H16Si2– dianion was isolated in the form of its sodium ([{Na(THF)3+}{Na(THF)+(12–)], 3) or potassium ([{K(THF)+}2(12–)], 4) salt. The environment at the central silicon atom in the dianion is flattened in comparison to the monoanion and neutral compound, with the angle between the two fluorene planes measured at 55° in 12– vs 89° in 1•– and 83° in 10. The aggregation of dianions and alkali-metal counterions leads to the formation of dimeric...
Uncertainty Evaluation of Bromate Ion Determination in Water by Ion Chromatography

[Objective]To analyze uncertainty of Bromate ion determination in water by ion chromatography.[Methods]According to procedures,mathematic model was established,then the relative and the absolute expanded uncertainties were calculated based on the spreading regulation of uncertainty.[Results]When the concentration of Bromate in water arrived 0.0638 mg/L,the expanded uncertainty was ±0.0031 mg/L.[Conclusion]This method can produce large application value in practical work.
Strategies for Comparing Metabolic Profiles: Implications for the Inference of Biochemical Mechanisms from Metabolomics Data

Background: Large amounts of metabolomics data have been accumulated in recent years and await analysis. Previously, we had developed a systems biology approach to infer biochemical mechanisms underlying metabolic alterations observed in cancers and other diseases. The method utilized the typical Euclidean distance for comparing metabolic profiles. Here, we ask whether any of the numerous alternative metrics might serve this purpose better. Methods and Findings: We used enzymatic alterations in purine metabolism that were measured in human renal cell carcinoma to test various metrics with the goal of identifying the best metrics for discerning metabolic profiles of healthy and diseased individuals. The results showed that several metrics have similarly good performance, but that some are unsuited for comparisons of metabolic profiles. Furthermore, the results suggest that relative changes in metabolite levels, which reduce bias toward large metabolite concentrations, are better suited for comparisons of metabolic profiles than absolute changes. Finally, we demonstrate that a sequential search for enzymatic alterations, ranked by importance, is not always valid. Conclusions: We identified metrics that are appropriate for comparisons of metabolic profiles. In addition, we constructed strategic guidelines for the algorithmic identification of biochemical mechanisms from metabolomics data.
Methods and Media to Isolate and Enumerate Listeria monocytogenes : A Review.

Although long known to be harmful to livestock, Listeria monocytogenes has only recently been recognized as a serious food-borne pathogen in humans. Isolation of this organism from contaminated foods is often difficult due to the presence of naturally occurring microflora. Methods used to isolate L. monocytogenes have included cold incubation of samples, use of oblique lighting to examine the color of colonies, use of selective enrichment and plating media, and techniques in molecular biology. All of these methods have inherent disadvantages. A brief review of the methods and media used by various workers is presented in this paper.
Testosterone replacement therapy and the heart: Friend, foe or bystander?

The role of testosterone therapy (TTh) in cardiovascular disease (CVD) outcomes is still controversial, and it seems will remain inconclusive for the moment. An extensive body of literature has investigated the association of endogenous testosterone and use of TTh with CVD events including several meta-analyses. In some instances, a number of studies reported beneficial effects of TTh on CVD events and in other instances the body of literature reported detrimental effects or no effects at all. Yet, no review article has scrutinized this body of literature using the magnitude of associations and statistical significance reported from this relationship. We critically reviewed the previous and emerging body of literature that investigated the association of endogenous testosterone and use of TTh with CVD events (only fatal and nonfatal). These studies were divided into three groups, "beneficial (friendly use)", "detrimental (foe)" and "no effects at all (bystander)", based on their magnitude of associations and statistical significance from original research studies and meta-analyses of epidemiological studies and of randomized controlled trials (RCT's). In this review article, the studies reporting a significant association of high levels of testosterone with a reduced risk of CVD events in original prospective studies and meta-analyses of cross-sectional and prospective studies seems to be more consistent. However, the number of meta-analyses of RCT's does not provide a clear picture after we divided it into the beneficial, detrimental or no effects all groups using their magnitudes of association and statistical significance. From this review, we suggest that we need a study or number of studies that have the adequate power, epidemiological, and clinical data to provide a definitive conclusion on whether the effect of TTh on the natural history of CVD is real or not.
Current challenges with proximal hypospadias: We have a long way to go.

Summary Background and purpose Proximal hypospadias repair has continued to challenge the pediatric urologist despite great efforts to develop better techniques for repair. Methods In this article, we review the literature regarding modern proximal hypospadias repair approaches and outcomes. We also present our current approach to proximal hypospadias repair surgery and outcome tracking. Finally, we review the literature on surgical outcome tools that may help us standardize research. Results Proximal hypospadias repair has significant variability in technique. Overall modern data would suggest that we require great improvement in our surgical management of this challenging problem. Though tools exist to begin to standardize the reporting of hypospadias outcomes, collaborative efforts are still required for future research. Conclusion Future research in proximal hypospadias repair needs to utilize new reporting tools as well as engage in collaborative efforts between institutions.
Positive alcohol expectancies mediate associations between ADHD behaviors and alcohol-related problems among college students.

An increasing percentage of college students report being affected by ADHD behaviors, and this population is at increased risk of experiencing negative consequences associated with alcohol consumption. However, specific factors motivating alcohol consumption and contributing to negative outcomes among these individuals are not well understood. Recent work suggests alcohol expectancies may interact with ADHD behaviors to influence negative drinking-related outcomes among those with elevated inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity. Seven-hundred-forty emerging adults (M age = 19.13 [SD = 2.25] years; 72.1% female; 85.8% Caucasian) enrolled in two public universities in the Southeast and Midwest USA completed the Brief Comprehensive Effects of Alcohol Survey (B-CEOA) and provided self-reports of ADHD symptoms and drinking-related outcomes. Multiple mediation analyses were conducted to evaluate effects of ADHD behaviors (i.e., hyperactivity-impulsivity, and inattention) and related impairment in major life domains (e.g., social interactions, occupational and educational activities, fulfillment of daily responsibilities) on drinking-related outcomes via positive and negative alcohol expectancies, controlling for sex, age, co-occurring oppositional behaviors, and data collection site. Inattention, hyperactivity-impulsivity, and impairment directly predicted both personal and social problems consequent to alcohol use. Effects of ADHD behaviors and impairment on drinking-related personal and social problems were partially mediated by positive expectancies. Findings are consistent with and extend prior work supporting a role of positive alcohol expectancies in alcohol-related negative outcomes among college students experiencing mild to moderate symptoms of ADHD.
The auditory comprehension changes over time after sport-related concussion can indicate multisensory processing dysfunctions.

Background Although science findings and treatment approaches of a concussion have changed in recent years, there continue to be challenges in understanding the nature of the post-concussion behavior. There is growing a body of evidence that some deficits can be related to an impaired auditory processing. Purpose To assess auditory comprehension changes over time following sport-related concussion (SRC) in young athletes. Methods A prospective, repeated measures mixed-design was used. A sample of concussed athletes (n = 137) and the control group consisted of age-matched, non-concussed athletes (n = 143) were administered Subtest VIII of the Computerized-Revised Token Test (C-RTT). The 88 concussed athletes selected for final analysis (neither previous history of brain injury, neurological, psychiatric problems, nor auditory deficits) were evaluated after injury during three sessions (PC1, PC2, and PC3); controls were tested once. Between- and within-group comparisons using RMANOVA were performed on the C-RTT Efficiency Score (ES). Results ES of the SRC athletes group improved over consecutive testing sessions (F = 14.7, p 2.0, Ps Conclusion Dysfunctional auditory comprehension performance following a concussion improved over time, but after the second testing session improved performance slowed, especially in terms of its timing. Yet, not only auditory processing but also sensorimotor integration and/or motor execution can be compromised after a concussion.
Professional perceptions of the effectiveness of visual communication systems and their applications for functional communication interventions for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Background & aimsThis study investigated the perceptions of educational professionals in regard to the effectiveness of visual communication systems and their applications as a functional communica...
Multiple energy extraction reduces beam delivery time for a synchrotron-based proton spot-scanning system.

Abstract Purpose Multiple energy extraction (MEE) is a technology that was recently introduced by Hitachi for its spot-scanning proton treatment system, which allows multiple energies to be delivered in a single synchrotron spill. The purpose of this paper is to investigate how much beam delivery time (BDT) can be reduced with MEE compared with single energy extraction (SEE), in which one energy is delivered per spill. Methods and Materials A recently developed model based on BDT measurements of our synchrotron's delivery performance was used to compute BDT. The total BDT for 2694 beam deliveries in a cohort of 79 patients treated at our institution was computed in both SEE and 9 MEE configurations to determine BDT reduction. The cohort BDT reduction was also calculated for hypothetical accelerators with increased deliverable charge and compared with the results of our current delivery system. Results A vendor-provided MEE configuration with 4 energy layers per spill reduced the total BDT on average by 35% (41 seconds) compared with SEE, with up to 65% BDT reduction for individual fields. Adding an MEE layer reduced the total BDT by Conclusions The MEE delivery technique reduced the total BDT by 35%. Increasing the charge per spill and charge recapture efficiency is necessary to further reduce BDT and thereby take full advantage of our MEE system's potential to improve treatment delivery efficiency and operational throughput.
Combined influence of meteoric water and protein intake on hydrogen isotope values in archaeological human bone collagen

Abstract Hydrogen isotopes in archaeological human bone collagen are poorly understood, but present an opportunity to add new depth to our understanding of ancient populations. The competing influences of meteoric water versus protein intake on human bone collagen hydrogen isotope values were examined through comparison with the well-understood proxies of hydroxyapatite oxygen and collagen nitrogen isotopes, respectively. Consideration of the data set as individual points compared to averaged pools of individuals in each of 11 archaeological sites suggested the latter partially eliminates inherent variability due to food choice or regional movement. Collagen hydrogen isotopes were moderately correlated with hydroxyapatite oxygen isotopes (R = 0.695, site averages) and collagen nitrogen isotopes (R = 0.562, site averages). Correlation improved with a multiple linear regression including both oxygen and nitrogen (R = 0.745, site averages). Correlation between meteoric water hydrogen and oxygen isotope values converted from hydroxyapatite and collagen values, respectively, yielded a slope well below the expected value of ∼8 observed directly in meteoric water (i.e. the “meteoric water line”). Correlation between converted meteoric water hydrogen and the measured collagen non-exchangeable hydrogen isotope values showed a slope well below the expected value of 1.0. Theoretical meteoric water hydrogen isotope values and theoretical herbivorous collagen hydrogen isotope values were calculated based on previously established equations in order to construct a hypothetical framework free of trophic level influences. Deviations between actual values and these theoretical values correlated weakly with collagen nitrogen isotope values, suggesting that direct trophic level enrichment/depletion is not controlling the disparity between expected and measured values. The deviations are hypothetically caused by non-local food sources, and a decoupling of expected oxygen and hydrogen relationships as individuals consumed more meat and decreased in vivo non-essential amino acid production. This work presents a new model that facilitates understanding of the complex relationship between meteoric water and protein intake controls on hydrogen isotopes in omnivorous human populations that can potentially inform about past meteoric water values and amounts of animal protein consumption.
Multivariate analysis of health status scores: chronic airway disorders and the MOS SF-36.

Multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) with follow-up canonical discriminant analysis may be used to interpret differences in health-related quality of life measured by the Medical Outcome Study Short Form 36 (MOS SF-36). Due to the modera te correlations between the 8 health dimensions of the SF-36, MANOVA is theoretically a more appropriate method th an traditional univariate approaches for detecting group differences on the SF-36. Additionally, canonical discriminant analysis presents a novel approach to understanding the relationship between health dimensions of the SF-36 and model-independent variables.
ON THE POST BUCKLING BEHAVIOR OF REINFORCED COMPOSITE SHELLS

The problem of post-buckling behavior of composite cylindrical shells reinforced in the axial and circumferential directions and subject to axial loading is considered. The equations of equilibrium of an imperfect shell are formulated in terms of displacements. The sufficient conditions of imperfection-insensitivity for both static and dynamic buckling problems are then formulated. This general analysis is applied to a particular case of axisymmetric buckling of ring-stiffened shells that appear to be practically imperfection- insensitive.
Long-Haul SDM Transmission Using Mode Division Multiplexing

We review recent achievements of SDM transmission experiments employing mode multiplexing technology. Mitigation techniques for linear transmission impairments are also presented that we have recently developed to achieve long-haul high-capacity SDM transmission using mode multiplexing.
Suicidal thoughts and behaviors in preadolescents: Findings and replication in two population-based samples

INTRODUCTION Given increasing concern in suicide in preadolescent children, this study aimed to characterize and identify potential indicators of risk for suicidal ideation (SI) and suicide attempts (SAs) in this population. METHODS Data were drawn from two population-based samples of preadolescents: the 2007 and 2010 Minnesota Student Survey and analyses were restricted to 11- and 12-year-olds. Sociodemographic characteristics, childhood maltreatment, parental relations, peer relations, and school climate were examined in relation to past-year SI and SA. To examine correlates of SI, unconfounded by risk for SA, individuals with a history of SA were excluded from SI analyses. Correlates of SA were examined among individuals with past-year SI. Logistic regression analyses were conducted with past-year SI and SA as criterion variables. RESULTS Results from the 2007 and 2010 data sets were highly consistent. The prevalence of past-year SI was 9.28% and 9.25% in 2007 and 2010, respectively. Of the total sample, 1.90% and 1.87% reported a past-year SA (17.00% and 16.78% of those with past-year SI). Overall, effect sizes were generally modest to medium. The strongest effects were observed for sexual and physical abuse, parental support, and perceived safety at school (ps < .001). In multivariate analyses of SI and SA, sexual and physical abuse had the largest effect sizes (ORSI = 2.18 [95% CI = 1.90-2.51] to 2.96 [95% CI = 2.69-3.26]; ORSA = 1.55 [95% CI = 1.29-1.86] to 2.26 [95% CI = 1.82-2.80]). CONCLUSIONS SI and SA occur at a concerning rate among preadolescent children. Screening for childhood sexual and physical abuse may be important for identifying those at risk for these clinical outcomes.
Compositional Dependence of Polyacrylamide Hydrogel Abrasive Wear Resistance

The structural and mechanical resemblance of hydrogels to cartilage makes them promising candidates for cartilage replacement in load-bearing joints. As with any sliding interface under high loads,...
Congenital Tufting Enteropathy: Biology, Pathogenesis and Mechanisms

Congenital tufting enteropathy (CTE) is an autosomal recessive disease of infancy that causes severe intestinal failure with electrolyte imbalances and impaired growth. CTE is typically diagnosed by its characteristic histological features, including villous atrophy, crypt hyperplasia and focal epithelial tufts consisting of densely packed enterocytes. Mutations in the EPCAM and SPINT2 genes have been identified as the etiology for this disease. The significant morbidity and mortality and lack of direct treatments for CTE patients demand a better understanding of disease pathophysiology. Here, the latest knowledge of CTE biology is systematically reviewed, including clinical aspects, disease genetics, and research model systems. Particular focus is paid to the pathogenesis of CTE and predicted mechanisms of the disease as these would provide insight for future therapeutic options. The contribution of intestinal homeostasis, including the role of intestinal cell differentiation, defective enterocytes, disrupted barrier and cell-cell junction, and cell-matrix adhesion, is vividly described here (see Graphical Abstract). Moreover, based on the known dynamics of EpCAM signaling, potential mechanistic pathways are highlighted that may contribute to the pathogenesis of CTE due to either loss of EpCAM function or EpCAM mutation. Although not fully elucidated, these pathways provide an improved understanding of this devastating disease.
Coarse-grained simulation of PEGylated and tethered protein devices at all experimentally accessible surface residues on β-lactamase for stability analysis and comparison.

PEGylated and surface-tethered proteins are used in a variety of biotechnological applications, but traditional methods offer little control over the placement of the functionalization sites on the protein. Fortunately, recent experimental methods functionalize the protein at any location on the amino acid sequence, so the question becomes one of selecting the site that will result in the best protein function. This work shows how molecular simulation can be used to screen potential attachment sites for surface tethering or PEGylation. Previous simulation work has shown promise in this regard for a model protein, but these studies are limited to screening only a few of the surface-accessible sites or only considered surface tethering or PEGylation separately rather than their combined effects. This work is done to overcome these limitations by screening all surface-accessible functionalization sites on a protein of industrial and therapeutic importance (TEM-1) and to evaluate the effects of tethering and PEGylation simultaneously in an effort to create a more accurate screen. The results show that functionalization site effectiveness appears to be a function of super-secondary and tertiary structures rather than the primary structure, as is often currently assumed. Moreover, sites in the middle of secondary structure elements, and not only those in loops regions, are shown to be good options for functionalization—a fact not appreciated in current practice. Taken as a whole, the results show how rigorous molecular simulation can be done to identify candidate amino acids for functionalization on a protein to facilitate the rational design of protein devices.
Informal and Private: Bargaining and Veto Threats over the Freedom of Information Act

The president’s formal role in lawmaking comes through the veto power, although Neustadt noted the informal power of persuasion through bargaining. Building from Azari and Smith’s work on informati...
Artificial intelligence in pediatric cardiology: taking baby steps in the big world of data.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW Artificial intelligence (AI) has changed virtually every aspect of modern life, and medicine is no exception. Pediatric cardiology is both a perceptual and a cognitive subspecialty that involves complex decision-making, so AI is a particularly attractive tool for this medical discipline. This review summarizes the foundational work and incremental progress made as AI applications have emerged in pediatric cardiology since 2020. RECENT FINDINGS AI-based algorithms can be useful for pediatric cardiology in many areas, including: (1) clinical examination and diagnosis, (2) image processing, (3) planning and management of cardiac interventions, (4) prognosis and risk stratification, (5) omics and precision medicine, and (6) fetal cardiology. Most AI initiatives showcased in medical journals seem to work well in silico, but progress toward implementation in actual clinical practice has been more limited. Several barriers to implementation are identified, some encountered throughout medicine generally, and others specific to pediatric cardiology. SUMMARY Despite barriers to acceptance in clinical practice, AI is already establishing a durable role in pediatric cardiology. Its potential remains great, but to fully realize its benefits, substantial investment to develop and refine AI for pediatric cardiology applications will be necessary to overcome the challenges of implementation.
Comparison of different methods for endoscopic hemostasis of bleeding canine esophageal varices.

Abstract Despite advances in the therapy of acute esophageal variceal hemorrhage, morbidity and mortality remain high. Continued severe variceal hemorrhage remains a major clinical problem in poor risk patients who cannot tolerate emergency surgery for hemostasis. Several endoscopic hemostatic methods might be effective for variceal hemostasis, but they have not been systematically evaluated. Using a reproducible canine model of esophageal varices, several hemostatic modalities were tested and compared to determine which were most effective in stopping variceal bleeding. Methods tested were endoscopic sclerotherapy, argon laser, neodymium-yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser, monopolar electrocoagulation, bipolar electrocoagulation, ferromagnetic tamponade, and endoscopic heater probe. Both neodymium-yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser and endoscopic sclerotherapy provided reliable hemostasis in acutely bleeding canine varices. Large heater probe controlled bleeding 50% of the time, and all the other methods stopped bleeding in less than half the trials. Rebleeding after balloon inflation proximal to the coagulated bleeding site did not occur with neodymium-yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser or endoscopic sclerotherapy-treated varices but did occur with the other methods. The principal differences between neodymium-yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser and endoscopic sclerotherapy were the ease of application of neodymium-yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser, the higher frequency of esophageal ulcers or erosions with neodymium-yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser, and the lack of variceal obliteration with neodymium-yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser.
Hotspot detection for chestnut oak regeneration

Chestnut oak regeneration hotspots were investigated in 52 mature mixed-oak stands in the central Appalachians. Four methods: ranking, SaTScan, ClusterSeer, and classification tree were applied to detect chestnut oak regeneration hotspots. Ranking method provided a quick assessment of the regeneration hotspot; SaTScan and ClusterSeer compromised the spatial correlation among the plots; classification tree not only identified the regeneration hotspots but also presented the associated biotic and abiotic variables simultaneously. The results from these four different methods were similar to each other, and no method seems statistically and ecologically superior to the others. Inclusive knowledge of the relationships between regeneration abundance and biotic and abiotic factors can help resource management agencies, such as Forest Service and Park Service to maintain a healthy, diverse, and compositionally stable forest ecosystem.
Government databases: A sampler

Abstract Selected databases from United States federal and state governments, other national governments, and international organizations are included in the following sampler. Bibliographic, textual, and numeric databases on diskettes, as well as those online, are noted. Name and address of producer and distributor, years of database coverage, and the database's paper counterpart are presented. More extensive information may be obtained through sources listed in the bibliography.
Effect of zinc on NMDA receptor-mediated channel currents in cortical neurons.

Recent data have indicated that the divalent cation Zn2+ can selectively block central neuronal excitation mediated by N-methyl-D- aspartate (NMDA) receptors. The present experiments were conducted to determine the action of Zn2+ at the single-channel level. Outside-out membrane patches were prepared from cultured murine cortical neurons. Glutamate, 3 microM, in the presence of 5 microM glycine activated channels with a main conductance state of about 50 pS which were blocked in a voltage-dependent manner by Mg2+. Zn2+ appeared to have 2 effects on these NMDA receptor-activated channels. First, at concentrations as low as 1–10 microM, Zn2+ produced a concentration- dependent reduction in channel open probability, insensitive to membrane voltage between -60 and +40 mV; about 50% reduction in open probability was produced by 3 microM Zn2+. This reduction was mostly due to a decrease in opening frequency and only weakly mimicked by Mg2+. Second, at higher concentrations (10–100 microM) and negative membrane voltages, Zn2+ additionally produced an apparent reduction in single-channel amplitude, associated with an increase in channel noise, suggestive of a fast channel block. The amplitude reduction was voltage- dependent, with a delta of 0.51; amplitude distribution analysis suggested that this voltage dependence was primarily contributed by the “on” blocking rate constant, with little contribution from the “off” rate constant. The channel block produced by Zn2+ was faster than that of Mg2+, which at 100 microM and negative membrane voltages induces flickering of the NMDA receptor-activated channel without changing apparent channel amplitude.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Is it time to use minimal residual disease to stratify post-remission treatment for acute myeloid leukemia?

During the past several decades, the therapeutic approach to acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has evolved with the incorporation of cytogenetic and molecular aberrations to classify AML into favorable,...