cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
THE REAL NUMBERS

This chapter discusses various approaches to the most important kind of numbers in all of mathematics, namely, the real numbers. The theory of real numbers occupies a position of the very greatest importance within contemporary mathematics. This is principally because of two reasons: (1) all of mathematical analysis rests upon the theory of real numbers as its foundation and (2) most mathematical theories are shown to have models within the theory of real numbers. This fact implies in particular that most of modern mathematics is shown to be consistent if real number theory is consistent, by means of relative-consistency proofs. A real number is defined as a number denoted by an infinite nonterminating decimal. The elementary algebra of real numbers differs from the elementary arithmetic of the natural numbers in several important respects. Elementary algebra is decidable, that is, there is an effective procedure for determining whether any arbitrary sentence from the elementary algebra of real numbers is true or not. Elementary algebra is axiomatizable; it is known to be not finitely axiomatizable.
Lower Bound on Estimation Variance of the Ultrasonic Attenuation Coefficient Using the Spectral-Difference Reference-phantom Method

Ultrasonic attenuation is one of the primary parameters of interest in Quantitative Ultrasound (QUS). Non-invasive monitoring of tissue attenuation can provide valuable diagnostic and prognostic information to the physician. The Reference Phantom Method (RPM) was introduced as a way of mitigating some of the system-related effects and biases to facilitate clinical QUS applications. In this paper, under the assumption of diffuse scattering, a probabilistic model of the backscattered signal spectrum is used to derive a theoretical lower bound on the estimation variance of the attenuation coefficient using the Spectral-Difference RPM. The theoretical lower bound is compared to simulated and experimental attenuation estimation statistics in tissue-mimicking (TM) phantoms. Estimation standard deviation (STD) of the sample attenuation in a region of interest (ROI) of the TM phantom is measured for various combinations of processing parameters, including Radio-Frequency (RF) data block length (i.e., window length) from 3 to 17 mm, RF data block width from 10 to 100 A-lines, and number of RF data blocks per attenuation estimation ROI from 3 to 10. In addition to the Spectral-Difference RPM, local attenuation estimation for simulated and experimental data sets was also performed using a modified implementation of the Spectral Fit Method (SFM). Estimation statistics of the SFM are compared to theoretical variance predictions from the literature.1 Measured STD curves are observed to lie above the theoretical lower bound curves, thus experimentally verifying the validity of the derived bounds. This theoretical framework benefits tissue characterization efforts by isolating processing parameter ranges that could provide required precision levels in estimation of the ultrasonic attenuation coefficient using Spectral Difference methods.
Using optical signal processing to reduce electronic hardware costs for wideband beamforming with RF antenna arrays

We consider optical processing of wideband RF signals for beamforming with antenna arrays. We focus on the applications with the number of antenna elements L much greater than the number of users K, e.g. multibeam satellites. For wideband signals, beamforming requires frequency selective processing that is expensive if electronic filters are used. We investigate the use of optical signal processing to reduce the number of electronic filters from L in the base case with one filter per antenna element. We first show that wideband nulling of K -1 interfering users can be done by performing conventional beamforming in optics followed by K electronic filters. We then focus on digital transmission with K users and show that, instead of K independent symbol detections after interference nulling, joint detection allows us to perform conventional beamforming in optics followed by K electronic matched filters. The key observation is that the number of electronic filters depends on the number of users K and not on the number of antenna elements L.
Witches and Demons: A Comparative Perspective on Witchcraft and Satanism, by Jean La Fontaine

This is a collection of various papers and presentations by the author, all in response to two sets of phenomena that occurred in England in the late twentieth and early twenty-first centuries: the...
Evolution of particulate organic matter (POM) along a headwater drainage: role of sources, particle size class, and storm magnitude

Large storm events can not only increase the runoff mass exports of particulate organic matter (POM) from watersheds, but can also alter the sources, size distribution, and composition of POM. We investigated the quantity, particle size distribution, carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) content, and sources of POM for five locations longitudinally along a forested Piedmont stream. POM was sampled for multiple storm events of varying magnitude and intensity over a two-year period. POM was separated into coarse (CPOM), medium (MPOM), and fine (FPOM) size classes, and sources were estimated using stable isotopes of 13C and 15N with a Bayesian mixing model. CPOM largely resembled less-degraded vascular plant material characteristic of forest floor litter, which was estimated to contribute to ~40% of CPOM in upstream locations. FPOM was derived from a more variable mixture of sources with stream beds and stream banks playing a greater role at larger drainage locations (up to ~50 and ~30%, respectively). Contributions from both forest floor litter and humus to CPOM increased with increasing event runoff, and litter contributions increased during events with higher rainfall intensities. Higher C and N content was noted in coarse sediments and finer POM fractions appeared to be more degraded based on C:N and isotope ratios. Climate-change projections predict intensification of large storm events in the Northeastern US. Results of this study suggest that large storms will increase the fluvial exports of coarse, labile, C- and N-rich POM with subsequent impacts on receiving aquatic ecosystems.
Prognostic models in predicting outcomes in myelodysplastic syndromes after hypomethylating agent failure

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are clonal stem cell disorders marked by bone marrow failure with varying degrees of cytopenias. MDS are characterized by the accumulation of complex genetic alterations that influence disease pathogenesis and outcomes. Given the heterogeneity of MDS patients, multiple prognostic scoring systems have been developed to predict patient outcomes. Most focus primarily on untreated patients in whom outcomes are predicted accurately only at diagnosis; their application dynamically, during the disease course and especially after hypomethylating agent (HMA) failure, may not be accurate. In this focused review, we discuss the utility of established MDS prognostic models and a novel tool at the time of HMA failure, along with the strengths and limitations of each.
Multimodal detecting and analytic system for visual perception and emotional response

The correlation between visual perception and the evoked emotional response has been investigated extensively in the area of cognitive psychology using the method of electroencephalography (EEG). Activities in the visual cortex have been found to be correlated with psychophysical performance, visual attention, and subjective perceptual experience. While electroencephalography could record the cerebral activities accurately, the subject's visual attention was always left out of consideration. In the study, we proposed and developed a multimodal detecting and analytic system for visual perception and emotional response using a combination of electroencephalography, eye tracking and heart rate. We maximized the portability of the system while ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the data. The effectiveness of the system was tested by an experiment based on negative, positive and neutral images selected from ThuPIS image system. 10 participants took part in the experiment and their emotions were analyzed in valence and arousal dimensions as they were observing the images. The results indicated positive correlations between valence and power of electroencephalography signals over the occipital lobe at low frequencies and over the left and right temporal lobes at high frequencies. The saccade magnitude and fixation duration of eye movements could also function as indicators of emotion. We designed a compact module of the system for psychological diagnosis and treatment. Our system may contribute to improve the precision of visual-based psychological treatment by providing real-time emotion analysis.
198 RECOGNIZING AND RESPONDING TO EXISTENTIAL SUFFERING: A CASE EXAMPLE.

Purpose If medicine is to treat the whole person, existential issues are critical sources of suffering that must be addressed. Yet there is no agreed-upon standard for what issues qualify as existential suffering. Clinicians who understand the overarching concept of existential suffering are better able to recognize how existential suffering is experienced and expressed, which facilitates an appropriate response. The purpose of this paper is to synthesize how existential suffering is conceptualized and defined across four disciplines to demonstrate through a case example how existential suffering is experienced and how it manifests. Methods We reviewed literature from philosophy, psychology, theology, and medicine to identify what constructs are central to and define existential suffering. Results The following typology characterizes the major domains of existential suffering. Meaning The human condition requires meaning, yet there is no inherent meaning to the world. We identified four subdomains of meaning that convey how persons construct and derive meaning: Purpose: The understanding of role and how it contributes to one9s sense of meaning; Responsibility: For one9s past, current situation and the maintenance of one9s values; Hope: Hope relates to the ability to find a reason for continued existence; Absurdity: The experience of life without meaning, often demonstrated by life9s randomness. Freedom An essential feature of the human condition is to be free and make choices that direct and control one9s life. Losing this freedom due to disability and death can cause suffering. Isolation The experience of an unbridgeable gap between one9s self and the rest of the world. Death The fear of annihilation, at some level, gives rise to all of existential suffering. Case Example A hospitalized 40-year-old woman with late-stage HIV was evaluated for her inability to walk and urinary incontinence. During the examination she asked, “Will I be this way forever?” She was tearful and complained that no one would tell her what was going on and that she was very scared. She is concerned that she won9t be able to go home to the job she left. In this brief example we see evidence of existential concerns regarding freedom, purpose, and isolation. This case will be discussed in greater detail. Conclusions Understanding the nature of a person9s suffering leads to the appropriate therapy. Physicians can help by initiating the conversation, eliciting and attending to elements of existential suffering, and offering therapy or referring to therapists or chaplains for support.
Tobacco-related carcinogenesis in head and neck cancer

Head and neck cancer (head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC)) is a devastating disease. Patients require intensive treatment that is often disfiguring and debilitating. Those who survive are often left with poor speech articulation, difficulties in chewing and swallowing, and cosmetic disfigurement, as well as loss of taste. Furthermore, given that HNSCC survivors are frequently disabled and unable to return to work, the economic and societal costs associated with HNSCC are massive. HNSCC is one of many cancers that are strongly associated with tobacco use. The risk for HNSCC in smokers is approximately ten times higher than that of never smokers, and 70-80% of new HNSCC diagnoses are associated with tobacco and alcohol use. Tobacco products have been used for centuries; however, it is just within the last 60-70 years that we have developed an understanding of their damaging effects. This relatively recent understanding has created a pathway towards educational and regulatory efforts aimed at reducing tobacco use. Understanding the carcinogenic components of tobacco products and how they lead to HNSCC is critical to regulatory and harm reduction measures. To date, nitrosamines and other carcinogenic agents present in tobacco products have been associated with cancer development. The disruption of DNA structure through DNA adduct formation is felt to be a common mutagenic pathway of many carcinogens. Intense work pertaining to tobacco product constituents, tobacco use, and tobacco regulation has resulted in decreased use in some parts of the world. Still, much work remains as tobacco continues to impart significant harm and contribute to HNSCC development worldwide.
The Works of Esmeralda Santiago: Puerto Rican Identity and Christian Anthropology

This chapter explores selected works of Esmeralda Santiago, demonstrating how they communicate a subversion of the ongoing colonial relationship with the USA through an examination of identity. After providing a brief biological sketch of Santiago, the chapter proceeds with a literary analysis of her works, demonstrating an emphasis on identity as a central theme. This theme corresponds with the Christian doctrine of humanity (Christian anthropology); the chapter continues with a brief overview of various perspectives on that doctrine, engaging Christopher Morse’s Not Every Spirit: A Dogmatics of Christian Disbelief as a critical guide. The chapter concludes with a vision of a Puerto Rican decolonial anthropology that emerges from the Puerto Rican story and points toward a new identity transformed by freedom. Topics The works of Esmeralda Santiago Biographical Sketch Literary Analysis: “Who am I?” Puerto Rican identity in dialogue with the doctrine of anthropology Constructing a prophetic decolonial Puerto Rican anthropology
CO Adsorption on Au/TiO2 Catalysts: Observations, Quantification, and Explanation of a Broad-Band Infrared Signal

The adsorption of CO on Au/TiO2 catalysts was examined at room temperature using FTIR transmission spectroscopy. Adsorption was observed as (i) a sharp peak at ∼2100 cm–1 due to CO molecular vibration (the Au–CO peak), and (ii) a broad-band infrared (BB-IR) signal. The Au–CO peak and BB-IR signal are correlated and quantitatively related to the amount of CO adsorbed on the Au nanoparticles. For comparison purposes, we also examined CO adsorption on Au/Al2O3 catalysts. When supported on this nonreducible support, CO adsorption on Au showed only the Au–CO peak; the BB-IR signal was absent. This allowed us to determine that the BB-IR signal observed for CO adsorption on the Au/TiO2 catalyst is associated with the reducibility of the support. Comparison of the two catalysts also enabled us to determine that the BB-IR signal is due to a decrease in transmission through the powdered catalysts when CO adsorbs on Au/TiO2. Consistent with previously published studies, we propose that this BB-IR signal is related t...
Mechanism of transplacental carcinogensis of dibenzo[a,l]pyrene and chemoprotection of indole-3-carbinol in the maternal diet.

5595 The fetus is a sensitive target for chemically induced toxicity including carcinogenesis. Previous studies showed that a single dose of 15 mg/ Kg b.w of dibenzo[ a, l ] pyrene (DBP) on gestation day 17 caused T-cell lymphoma in offspring around three months old, and lung and liver tumors at 10 months of age in a B6 129 transplacental mouse model. Maternal dietary supplementation with indole-3 carbinol (I3C) from gestation 9 through nursing reduced the mortalities caused by lymphoma and the multiplicity of lung tumors. In order to understand the mechanism(s) of this chemoprevention, corresponding maternal and neonate samples were collected from groups with either in utero exposure to DBP alone, DBP+ I3C, I3C alone or control diet. DBP-DNA adducts, in maternal and fetal target tissues, were analyzed by 33 P postlabeling and HPLC. DBP - DNA adducts were found in maternal and fetal lung and fetal thymus tissues. I3C modulated DBP-DNA adduct levels in maternal lung. Thymic gene expression of newborns was analyzed through the application of Affymetrix GeneChip Mouse Genome 430 2.0 Array. The greater transcriptome changes in thymus of neonates exposed to DBP in utero occurred in genes related to cell proliferation, cell adhesion and extracellular matrix interaction, angiogenesis, metastasis and tumor invasion. Almost half of the DBP altered genes were modulated upon addition of I3C to the maternal diet. The transplacental carcinogensis of DBP may involve mutation of critical genes for lymphoma and chemoprotection of the fetus by maternal dietary I3C may depend upon modification of the bioavailability of DBP to the fetus and/or modulation of gene expression in the fetal target tissues. (Supported by NIH grants CA90890, ES00210 and CA28825)
Pulmonary infarction secondary to pulmonary embolism: An evolving paradigm.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Pulmonary infarction (PI) from pulmonary embolism (PE) remains an entity of unclear aetiology. PI has been thought to occur in elderly patients with cardiopulmonary disease. We hypothesize younger patients without cardiopulmonary comorbidities are at highest risk. Our study aims to characterize PI clinically and radiographically, determine associated risk factors and determine their clinical significance. METHODS We conducted a single-centre retrospective review of 367 consecutive patients with PE. Clinical and radiographic data were compared between patients with and without PI using chi-square and F-tests. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to evaluate risk factors for PI. RESULTS PI occurred in 62 of 367 patients with acute PE (16.9%). Patients with PI were significantly younger (48 ± 20.3 vs 59.6 ± 17.2 years, P < 0.01), with lower pulmonary embolism severity index (PESI) scores (73.7 ± 38.1 vs 91.9 ± 37.5 years, P < 0.01) and endorsed chest pain with significantly higher frequency (65% vs 39%, P < 0.01). There was no significant difference in other clinical symptoms, hospital length of stay or mortality between groups. Presence of radiographic cardiopulmonary disease was significantly lower in patients with PI (emphysema: 5% vs 22%, P = <0.01; aortic atherosclerosis: 23% vs 43%, P = <0.01). In multivariate analysis, age ≤33 (OR 3.5 CI: 1.37-8.95, P < 0.01), chest pain (OR 2.15 CI: 1.15-4.00, P = 0.02) and pleural effusion (OR 2.18 CI: 1.08-4.41, P = 0.03) increased PI risk and presence of emphysema decreased risk (OR 0.21 CI: 0.06-0.70, P = 0.01). CONCLUSION Younger patients without cardiopulmonary comorbidities are at highest risk of PI. Chest pain and pleural effusion significantly increased risk of PI while presence of radiographic emphysema reduced risk.
Drilling Related Geomechanics

Analyses of lost circulation and wellbore strengthening require knowledge of formation and wellbore geomechanics. This chapter provides a brief overview of some geomechanical concepts related to the subject, including in-situ stress, pore pressure, wellbore stress concertation, wellbore failure criteria, and drilling mud weight window. A variety of field injectivity tests for determining in-situ stress and fracture properties (e.g. fracture initiation, propagation, and closure pressures) are also discussed.
Residential Air-Conditioning System with Smart-Grid Functionality

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vii CHAPTER 1. GENERAL INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 1.1 Thesis Organization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 CHAPTER 2. INTELLIGENT RESIDENTIAL AIR-CONDITIONING SYSTEM WITH SMART-GRID FUNCTIONALITY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Abstract . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 2.
A Collective Case Study of Veterans in an Arts and Crafts Program

Abstract Agostinone-Wilson (2001) described how a community’s interests and values can be reflected through the expressions of using craft items and creative activities. This article documents work with three veteran case studies at the Dallas Veteran’s Hospital in Texas and how veterans gained a sense of empowerment by making crafts together and how they expressed themselves. As a result, the veterans involved in the arts and crafts community gained knowledge through a broader sense of humanity and collaboration and encouraged them to have a positive learning experience.
A Method for Detecting Fuel Cladding Penetration in LMFBRs by Monitoring the Sodium Coolant for Iodine-135

Work has been completed to demonstrate the feasibility of a new cladding- failure monitoring technique based on determination of the /sup 135/I content of the primary sodium coolant of Liquid Metal Fast Breeder Reactors (LMFBRs). The method was devised to aid in detecting the penetration of fuel element cladding by sodium coolant. The method consists of isolating a small volume of primary sodium, sparging it with an inert gas to strip out dissolved gases which are discarded, further sparging the sample to strip /sup 135m/Xe produced by /sup 135/ I decay, and calculating the /sup 135/I content of the sodi um from the /sup 135m/ Xe content of the second sparge. A sparging monitor was built and tested to determine the time required to sparge dissolved radioxenon (/sup 133/Xe) from molten sodium. This time varied from approximates 1 to 1.5 min, depending on experimental conditions. For the calculated background level of /sup 135/I in the primary sodium of Experimental Breeder Reactor II, a counting time of approximates 2 min would be required to determine the amount of /sup 135m/Xe removed by the second sparging to a 1 sigma counting precision of plus or minus 4%. A shorter counting time wouldmore » be required for higher /sup 135m/Xe levels that would occur during fuel failure. A system with automatic controls was designed for monitoring /sup 135/I in the primary sodium of an LMFBR. (auth)« less
Convergent Evolution and Community Convergence: Research Potential Using Intertidal Fishes

The chapter describes how intertidal fish faunas offer compelling and unexploited opportunities for the study of convergent evolution and community convergence. The only way that such studies can be properly conducted, however, is through phytogenetic analyses based on well-resolved phylogenies of the intertidal species and their closest relatives from other habitats. The chapter further explains how the structural and functional traits that could serve as the basis for an analysis of convergent evolution are identified, and elements that should be part of an appropriate research design. The importance of such a research program is that demonstration of convergent evolution can address how fishes may or may not evolve, through adaptation, to increase their fitness in the intertidal environment. Rocky shores supporting intertidal fish communities are commonly separated by stretches of sandy beaches, by latitudinal temperature gradients, or by ocean basins. Varying degrees of genetic isolation have been found in fish species, including intertidal forms along coastlines and between mainland and island populations, indicating different amounts of gene flow between populations. Intertidal fish communities are, therefore, isolated to varying degrees from one another and undergo development and evolution in some degree of isolation depending on the amount of gene flow among them.
Mental Health Indicators for African American Males

The aim of this chapter is to review briefly a range of indicators that provide some clues about the mental health status and psychosocial functioning of African American boys. The chapter presents what is known about the comparative rates of psychological difficulties observed among males under the age of 18. To provide mental health indicators, we will draw on data from mental health screenings in early childhood programs, survey the mental health epidemiological literature which examines DSM disorders, and review-related indicators such as rates of assignment to special education and rates of suicide. The chapter concludes with an attempt to use existing research to explain the differential mental health of African American males. Specifically, the chapter discusses the strain and trauma in the lives of boys of color and how this creates a social context for coping that is implicated in the disproportionately high levels of behavioral disorders attributed to young African American males.
Opening up a large can of worms

The genomes for essentially all worm parasites of humans are in hand thanks to a new study. Now we have to use them.
Teaching The Bid-Ask Spread And Triangular Arbitrage For The Foreign Exchange Market

The foreign exchange (FX) market is an important chapter in international finance. Understanding the market microstructure is critical for learning the FX market. To assist students better understand the FX market microstructure, an instructor can use an event study with minute-by-minute quote data provided in the Excel assignment, asking students to investigate the impact of an event on the bid-ask spread and triangular arbitrage opportunities. This pedagogical paper provides two examples of making the Excel assignment for reference.
Youth Vaping and Associated Risk Behaviors — A Snapshot of Colorado

Youth Vaping in Colorado In a 2017 survey of Colorado high-school students, 27% reported current use of electronic cigarettes (vaping). These students were also more likely to report risky behavior...
Background luminescence in x-ray luminescence computed tomography (XLCT) imaging

X-ray luminescence computed tomography (XLCT) is an emerging hybrid imaging modality. It has been recently reported that materials such as water, tissue, or even air can generate optical photons upon x-ray irradiation, which can increase the noises in measurements of XLCT. In this study, we have investigated the x-ray luminescence from water, air, as well as tissue mimicking phantoms, including one embedded with a 0.01 mg/mL GOS:Eu3+ microphosphor target. We have measured the optical emission spectrum from each sample, including samples of meat and fat, using a spectrograph. Our results indicate that there are plenty of optical photons emitted by x-ray irradiation, and a small nanophosphor concentration, as low as 5.28 μM in a deep background, can provide enough contrast for XLCT imaging.
Hydrodynamics and Spatio-Temporal Mapping of Oxide Formation in Laser-Produced U Plasmas

We combine optical emission spectroscopy with hydrodynamic measurements in laser-produced uranium plasma in air to detect formation of higher uranium oxide states. Generation of uranium oxides reduces the excited atomic uranium population. © 2019 The Author(s)
Job Accessibility and Urban Transport Connectivity : Evidence from Antananarivo, Madagascar

In recent years, there has been renewed interest in access to jobs in relation to transport connectivity. In Sub-Saharan Africa, about 14 million working age people are added to the labor market every year. Ensuring sustained access to jobs seems to be a prerequisite for inclusive and robust economic growth. The paper examines the impact of public transit connectivity on access to jobs, especially focusing on wages. Using data from Antananarivo, Madagascar, it is shown that the wages earned by commuters are systematically higher than the wages earned by those who decided not to commute and are self-employed or engaged with family businesses around their neighborhood. Proximity to public transport, especially taxi-be, is important to promote people's access to jobs. It is also found that there is a substantial gender inequality in wages in the country: Women are more likely to use buses to commute, and yet, they earn less than men. In addition, the poor tend to benefit less from public transportation. Public bus services are affordable, however, the quality of the services may remain low.
Cytogenetic Features and Clinical Outcomes of Patients With Non-secretory Multiple Myeloma in the Era of Novel Agent Induction Therapy.

ABSTRACT Background Non-secretory multiple myeloma (NSMM) is a rare subtype of multiple myeloma (MM) characterized by the absence of monoclonal protein in the serum and/or urine. We look at the clinical and cytogenetic features of NSMM in this study. Patients and Methods This study evaluates a cohort of 30 patients with newly diagnosed NSMM seen at the Mayo Clinic, Rochester between 2008 to 2018 and treated with novel agent induction therapies. Survival outcomes were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method and compared using log rank test. Results and conclusion s: These patients with NSMM appear to have a large disease burden at diagnosis with a median bone marrow plasma cell percentage of 70% and more than half of all patients having ISS Stage III disease. There was a higher preponderance for t(11;14) primary cytogenetic abnormality in this NSMM cohort accounting for more than 50% of the cohort. Finally, the overall survival (OS) of this cohort appears to be slightly worse than a matched-control group of newly diagnosed MM patients with secretory disease. Future multi-institution studies confirming these above findings on this rare entity are warranted.
Replacing Saturated Fats with Unsaturated Fats from Walnuts or Vegetable Oils Lowers Atherogenic Lipoprotein Classes Without Increasing Lipoprotein(a).

BACKGROUND Walnuts have established lipid-/lipoprotein-lowering properties; however, their effect on lipoprotein subclasses has not been investigated. Furthermore, the mechanisms by which walnuts improve lipid/lipoprotein concentrations are incompletely understood. OBJECTIVES We aimed to examine, as exploratory outcomes of this trial, the effect of replacing SFAs with unsaturated fats from walnuts or vegetable oils on lipoprotein subclasses, cholesterol efflux, and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9). METHODS A randomized, crossover, controlled-feeding study was conducted in individuals at risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) (n = 34; 62% men; mean ± SD age 44 ± 10 y; BMI: 30.1 ± 4.9 kg/m2). After a 2-wk run-in diet (12% SFAs, 7% PUFAs, 12% MUFAs), subjects consumed the following diets, in randomized order, for 6 wk: 1) walnut diet (WD) [57-99 g/d walnuts, 7% SFAs, 16% PUFAs [2.7% α-linolenic acid (ALA)], 9% MUFAs]; 2) walnut fatty acid-matched diet [7% SFAs, 16% PUFAs (2.6% ALA), 9% MUFAs]; and 3) oleic acid replaces ALA diet (ORAD) [7% SFAs, 14% PUFAs (0.4% ALA); 12% MUFAs] (all percentages listed are of total kilocalories ). Serum collected after the run-in (baseline) and each diet period was analyzed for lipoprotein classes and subclasses (vertical auto profile), cholesterol efflux, and PCSK9. Linear mixed models were used for data analysis. RESULTS Compared with the ORAD, total cholesterol (mean ± SEM -8.9± 2.3 mg/dL; -5.1%; P < 0.001), non-HDL cholesterol (-7.4 ± 2.0 mg/dL; -5.4%; P = 0.001), and LDL cholesterol (-6.9 ± 1.9 mg/dL; -6.5%; P = 0.001) were lower after the WD; no other pairwise differences existed. There were no between-diet differences for HDL-cholesterol or LDL-cholesterol subclasses. Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)], cholesterol efflux, and PCSK9 were unchanged after the diets. CONCLUSIONS In individuals at risk of CVD, replacement of SFAs with unsaturated fats from walnuts or vegetable oils improved lipid/lipoprotein classes, including LDL-cholesterol, non-HDL cholesterol, and total cholesterol, without an increase in Lp(a). These improvements were not explained by changes in cholesterol efflux capacity or PCSK9. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01235832.
Parametric quality factor enhancement for highly-selective miniaturized BPFs

Negative-resistance parametric amplification was applied to a semi-lumped microstrip resonator for "recovering" their quality factor. Then, a narrowband (2% fractional bandwidth), highly-selective (fifth-order) bandpass filter (BPF) based on such resonator was designed to demonstrate that zero low insertion loss characteristic can be achieved at the center of the passband.
Pitch and Duration Mismatch Negativity and Heschl’s Gyrus Volume in First-Episode Schizophrenia-Spectrum Individuals:

Background. The mismatch negativity (MMN) brainwave indexes novelty detection. MMN to infrequent pitch (pMMN) and duration (dMMN) deviants is reduced in long-term schizophrenia. Although not reduced at first psychosis, pMMN is inversely associated with left hemisphere Heschl's gyrus (HG) gray matter volume within 1 year of first hospitalization for schizophrenia-spectrum psychosis, consistent with pathology of left primary auditory cortex early in disease course. We examined whether the relationship was present earlier, at first psychiatric contact for psychosis, and whether the same structural-functional association was apparent for dMMN. Method. Twenty-seven first-episode schizophrenia-spectrum (FESz) and 27 matched healthy comparison (HC) individuals were compared. EEG-derived pMMN and dMMN were measured by subtracting the standard tone waveform (80%) from the pitch- and duration-deviant waveforms (10% each). HG volumes were calculated from T1-weighted structural magnetic resonance imaging using Freesurfer. Results. In FESz, pMMN amplitudes at Fz were inversely associated with left HG (but not right) gray matter volumes, and dMMN amplitudes were associated significantly with left HG volumes and at trend-level with right HG. There were no structural-functional associations in HC. Conclusions. pMMN and dMMN index gray matter reduction in left hemisphere auditory cortex early in psychosis, with dMMN also marginally indexing right HG volumes. This suggest conjoint functional and structural pathology that affects the automatic detection of novelty with varying degrees of penetrance prior to psychosis. These brainwaves are sensitive biomarkers of pathology early in the psychotic disease course, and may serve as biomarkers of disease progression and as therapeutic outcome measures.
The Relevance of Operant Behavior in Conceptualizing the Psychological Well-Being of Captive Animals

The term “psychological well-being” is used in reference to husbandry with animals in human care settings such as research, agriculture, and zoos. This article seeks to clarify and conceptualize the term based upon two approaches that draw from several bodies of literature: the experimental analysis of behavior, experimental psychology, animal welfare and husbandry, farm animal behavior, zoo husbandry, and ethology. One approach focuses on the presence of problem behavior such as stereotypies, depressive-like behavior, and aggression, and emphasizes the conditions under which aberrant behavior in animals under human care occurs. The second approach examines what might be considered wellness by emphasizing opportunities to engage with its environment, or the absence of such opportunities, even if problematic behavior is not exhibited. Here, access to an interactive environment is relatively limited so opportunities for operant (voluntary) behavior could be considered. Designing for operant behavior provides opportunities for variability in both behavior and outcomes. Operant behavior also provides control over the environment, a characteristic that has been a core assumption of well-being. The importance of interactions with one’s environment is especially evident in observations that animals prefer opportunities to work for items necessary for sustenance, such as food, over having them delivered freely. These considerations raise the importance of operant behavior to psychological well-being, especially as benefits to animals under human care.
Heat semigroups on Weyl algebra

Abstract We study the algebra of semigroups of Laplacians on the Weyl algebra. We consider first-order partial differential operators ∇ i ± forming the Lie algebra [ ∇ j ± , ∇ k ± ] = i R j k ± and [ ∇ j + , ∇ k − ] = i 1 2 ( R j k + + R j k − ) with some anti-symmetric matrices R i j ± and define the corresponding Laplacians Δ ± = g ± i j ∇ i ± ∇ j ± with some positive matrices g ± i j . We show that the heat semigroups exp ( t Δ ± ) can be represented as a Gaussian average of the operators exp " open=" ξ , ∇ ± and use these representations to compute the product of the semigroups, exp ( t Δ + ) exp ( s Δ − ) and the corresponding heat kernel.
Dudley Allen Sargent’s Classed and Classing Fitness: Nature, Science, and Mimetic Exercise

In this chapter I explore how physical director Dudley Allen Sargent’s gym work and handbooks between 1879 and 1919 promised transformation, especially in terms of class, at the expense of a eugenically grounded philosophy that positioned elite white men as the pinnacle of a social evolutionary trajectory. For his women students at the Harvard Annex he promised elevation to careers in universities and colleges as physical directors, while also expecting them to follow through on their duty to become wives and mothers. Sargent’s exercises imagined, created, and delineated these bodies in terms of class while also utilizing those bodies in order to define the boundaries of that class. Through mimetic exercises that simulated rural, manual labor tasks like wood-chopping or pitching hay, Sargent promoted a fitter population of white urban professional workers. His physical culture system helped separate an elite class from both manual and rural labor, reframing their imitations of those labors as leisure. Consequently, I suggest performance was the alchemical touchstone that enabled the transition from the body as a tool for the production of goods to the production of the body as a good in and of itself.
Kindergarten Cop: A Case Study of How a Coalition Between School Districts and Law Enforcement Led to School Resource Officers in Elementary Schools:

Adopting school resource officers (SROs) is a popular response to school shootings. Using the advocacy coalition and multiple streams frameworks, we explore how school districts in one county forme...
Contemporary Justice Review – an interdisciplinary journal

Statistical analyses of 20th century social movements reveal nonviolence is twice as effective in meeting group demands as violent campaigns, yet there is meaningful debate over what constitutes no...
Uncovering low frequency band gaps in electrically resonant metamaterials through tuned dissipation and negative impedance conversion

Abstract A new class of electromechanically coupled metamaterial is presented which relies on magnetic field interactions between the host structure and a local resonator circuit to realize novel vibration control capabilities. The metamaterial chain exhibits a highly tunable vibration band gap which can be easily placed at a desired frequency using the resonant circuit parameters, providing a robust mechanism to independently alter the band gap width, depth, and frequency of maximum attenuation. In its dissipative form, the electromechanical metamaterial is shown to exhibit electrical metadamping as a function of the local resonance circuit resistance. The impact of the damping ratio as a function of the electrical resistance is characterized in frequency and time domains, and related to the infinite system dynamics. A robust experimental realization of the system is constructed which achieves electromechanical coupling through a moving coil and magnet system. The apparatus is used to show that the band gap location and depth can be readily tuned with the circuit elements. The presented metamaterial has potential for meaningful vibroacoustic practical applications in addition to revealing fundamentally new properties of damped electrically-resonant structures.
The hidden cost of digitization – things to consider

Purpose – The paper aims to explore some of the hidden costs of these endeavors through an exploration of some the current literature. Despite the perceived ease of creating digital access, the road to digitization is long and fraught with a number of obstacles. Design/methodology/approach – Some of the key ideas researched are the steps to consider when planning a digitization project, the long-term sustainability of such projects and issues of copyright and ownership. This article will benefit any institution planning to embark upon a future digitization project. Findings – More research needs to be conducted as the needs of users change and as the technology shifts and changes. Originality/value – This paper will benefit any institution planning to embark upon a future digitization project.
Stromal-epithelial responses to fractionated radiotherapy in a breast cancer microenvironment

The stromal-epithelial-cell interactions that are responsible for directing normal breast-tissue development and maintenance play a central role in the progression of breast cancer. In the present study, we continued our development of three-dimensional (3-D) cell co-cultures used to study cancerous mammary cell responses to fractionated radiotherapy. In particular, we focused on the role of the reactive stroma in determining the therapeutic ratio for post-surgical treatment. Cancerous human mammary epithelial cells (MRC-7) were cultured in a 3-D collagen matrix with human fibroblasts (MRC-5) stimulated by various concentrations of transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1). These culture samples were designed to model the post-lumpectomy mammary stroma in the presence of residual cancer cells. We tracked over time the changes in medium stiffness, fibroblast-cell activation (MRC-5 converted to cancer activated fibroblasts (CAFs)), and proliferation of both cell types under a variety of fractionated radiotherapy protocols. Samples were exposed to 6 MV X-rays from a linear accelerator in daily fraction sizes of 90, 180 and 360 cGy over five days in a manner consistent with irradiation exposure during radiotherapy. We found in fractionation studies with MRC-5 fibroblasts and CAFs that higher doses per fraction may be more effective early on in deactivating cancer-harboring cellular environments. Higher-dose fraction schemes inhibit contractility in CAFs and prevent differentiation of fibroblasts, thereby metabolically uncoupling tumor cells from their surrounding stroma. However, higher dose fraction appears to increase ECM stiffening. The findings suggest that dose escalation to the region with residual disease can deactivate the reactive stroma, thus minimizing the cancer promoting features of the cellular environment. Large-fraction irradiation may be used to sterilize residual tumor cells and inhibit activation of intracellular transduction pathways that are promoted during the post-surgical wound-healing period. The higher dose fractions may slow wound healing and increase ECM stiffening that could stimulate proliferation of surviving cancer cells.
The role of androgens in metabolism, obesity and diabetes in males and females

Objectives In men, androgen deprivation contributes to the development of metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes (T2D). In women, androgen excess predisposes to insulin resistance and T2D. There is a bidirectional modulation of glucose homeostasis by androgen in males and females that we analyze in this review.
V599E B-Raf as the next HSP90 client protein: A novel strategy for selective inhibition of mutated B-Raf

5242 The discovery of frequent mutations in the B-Raf gene in human tumors has generated enormous interest in how this Raf kinase is regulated and how mutations in B-Raf lead to transformation. In this study we provide new insight into these questions by finding that mutational activation of B-Raf is associated with gain of dependence on Hsp90 and its presence in an Hsp90-cdc37 complex. Wild type B-Raf, in contrast, is unaffected by Hsp90 inhibitors and doesn’t require Hsp90 for conformational maturation and stability. The Hsp90 inhibitor 17-allylaminogeldanamycin (17-AAG) causes the targeting of mutated B-Raf to an NP-40 insoluble fraction of the proteasome, where it is degraded. The loss of mutated B-Raf expression results in inhibition of MAP kinase, loss of D-cyclin expression with subsequent G1 arrest and apoptosis. Furthermore, degradation of B-Raf can be induced with Hsp90 inhibitors, in vivo, at non-toxic doses, and this may therefore represent a novel therapeutic strategy for this disease.
Exposures of olivine-rich rocks in the vicinity of Ares Vallis: Implications for Noachian and Hesperian volcanism

[1] The igneous evolution of Mars is well represented in stratigraphic settings that transition across major time stratigraphic boundaries. Here we analyze in detail the morphology and composition, determined through visible–near-infrared spectroscopy, of igneous volcanic terrains in Ares Vallis, Mars. Upland plateau units with crater-filling volcanic plains are of Noachian age; smooth units to the west and north of the mouth of Ares Vallis have been mapped as Hesperian in age. The age and origin of the units that comprise the floor of Ares Vallis, connecting the upland plateau units and the smooth units to the west and north of the mouth of Ares Vallis, is less certain due to the small area available for crater counting. The mafic mineral compositions of these units are well resolved with OMEGA (Observatoire pour la Mineralogie, l'Eau, les Glaces et l'Activite) and CRISM (Compact Reconnaissance Imaging Spectrometer for Mars) data. The data show that the Noachian volcanic units are distinctly olivine-rich, while the plains units to the west and the floor of Ares Vallis volcanics show diagnostic absorptions of olivine-pyroxene, typical of Hesperian volcanics elsewhere on Mars. Based on these findings, we propose there has been a change in the temperature and/or degree of partial melting in the mantle over time for this region of Mars.
An In Vitro Comparison of the Shear Bond Strengths of Two Different Gingiva‐Colored Materials Bonded to Commercially Pure Titanium and Acrylic Artificial Teeth

Purpose The purpose of this study was to compare shear bond strengths between two different gingiva-colored materials bonded to titanium alloy discs and acrylic resin artificial teeth. Materials and Methods For the first part of this study, 30 titanium alloy disc specimens were embedded in autopolymerizing resin. These discs were then divided randomly into two groups: Heat Cure (HT1) and Pink Composite (CT1). The discs were sandblasted with 100 μm aluminum oxide particles. For the HT1 group using silicone molds, a wax-up was performed. After the wax removal step, heat-cured acrylic resin was applied and processed according to the manufacturer's recommendations. For the CT1 group using silicone molds, metal primer II and gum opaque were applied and light cured; pink composite was then applied and light cured. For the second part of the study, 30 artificial resin first molar teeth were completely embedded in autopolymerizing resin. Teeth were then divided randomly into two groups: Heat Cure (HT2) and Pink Composite (CT2). For the HT2 group using silicone molds, wax-up was performed. Specimens were then transferred to be processed in the heat-cured acrylic resin according to the manufacturer's recommendations. For the CT2 group using silicone molds, composite primer followed by pink composite were applied and light cured. Shear bond tests were performed using an Instron 3345 universal testing machine. The shear load at the point of failure was recorded in Newtons. The force was calculated in MPa by calculating the failure load divided by the surface area. Two independent-samples t-tests were performed. A significance level of p < 0.05 was used for comparison. Results This study revealed that the difference in the shear bond strengths of two different gingiva-colored materials bonded to titanium discs was statistically significant (p = 0.012). The difference in the shear bond strengths of two different gingival-colored materials bonded to acrylic teeth was statistically significant (p < 0.001). Conclusion In this in vitro study, heat-cured acrylic resins exhibited higher bonding strengths when bonded to titanium discs or acrylic artificial teeth in comparison to pink composite resins.