cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Shallow water benthic imaging and substrate characterization using recreational-grade sidescan-sonar

In recent years, lightweight, inexpensive, vessel-mounted ‘recreational grade’ sonar systems have rapidly grown in popularity among aquatic scientists, for swath imaging of benthic substrates. To promote an ongoing ‘democratization’ of acoustical imaging of shallow water environments, methods to carry out geometric and radiometric correction and georectification of sonar echograms are presented, based on simplified models for sonar-target geometry and acoustic backscattering and attenuation in shallow water. Procedures are described for automated removal of the acoustic shadows, identification of bed-water interface for situations when the water is too turbid or turbulent for reliable depth echosounding, and for automated bed substrate classification based on singlebeam full-waveform analysis. These methods are encoded in an open-source and freely-available software package, which should further facilitate use of recreational-grade sidescan sonar, in a fully automated and objective manner. The sequential correction, mapping, and analysis steps are demonstrated using a data set from a shallow freshwater environment.
Cache locking vs. partitioning for real-time computing on integrated CPU-GPU processors

Heterogeneous multicore processors with integrated CPU and GPU cores on the same chip pose new challenges and opportunities for time-predictable resources sharing, which is crucial for hard real-time and safety-critical systems. The shared last-level cache (LLC) can result in a large number of interferences between CPU and GPU (Graphic Processing Units) LLC accesses with diverse patterns and characteristics, thus impacting the performance and time predictability of both CPUs and GPUs. In this paper, we explore cache partitioning, locking and a combination of them to make the LLC time-predictable for integrated CPU-GPUs while achieving high performance. By evaluating these LLC management approaches, we are able to provide real-time systems developers recommendations on the most effective time-predictable LLC designs for heterogeneous CPU-GPU multicore processors.
Targeted multidrug delivery system to overcome chemoresistance in breast cancer

Chemotherapy has been widely used in breast cancer patients to reduce tumor size. However, most anticancer agents cannot differentiate between cancerous and normal cells, resulting in severe systemic toxicity. In addition, acquired drug resistance during the chemotherapy treatment further decreases treatment efficacy. With the proper treatment strategy, nanodrug carriers, such as liposomes/immunoliposomes, may be able to reduce undesired side effects of chemotherapy, to overcome the acquired multidrug resistance, and to further improve the treatment efficacy. In this study, a novel combinational targeted drug delivery system was developed by encapsulating antiangiogenesis drug bevacizumab into liposomes and encapsulating chemotherapy drug doxorubicin (DOX) into immunoliposomes where the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) antibody was used as a targeting ligand. This novel combinational system was tested in vitro using a HER2 positive and multidrug resistant breast cancer cell line (BT-474/MDR), and in vivo using a xenograft mouse tumor model. In vitro cell culture experiments show that immunoliposome delivery led to a high cell nucleus accumulation of DOX, whereas free DOX was observed mostly near the cell membrane and in cytoplasm due to the action of P-gp. Combining liposomal bevacizumab with immunoliposomal DOX achieved the best tumor growth inhibition and the lowest toxicity. Tumor size decreased steadily within a 60-day observation period indicating a potential synergistic effect between DOX and bevacizumab through the targeted delivery. Our findings clearly indicate that tumor growth was significantly delayed in the combinational liposomal drug delivery group. This novel combinational therapy has great potential for the treatment of patients with HER2/MDR double positive breast cancer.
Introduction to Light–Particle Interactions

In the previous chapter, we introduced targeted photothermal therapy of cancer, which combines molecular targeting mechanisms with the unique light absorption properties of nanoparticles to deliver heat and treat diseases at a subcellular level. To understand how photothermal therapies like nanophotothermolysis and nanophotohyperthermia could be useful, it is important to understand how radiation interacts with nanoparticles. This chapter models the light absorption properties of nanoparticles in the X-ray, optical, and RF ranges of the spectrum. To find the optimal wavelength of radiation and optimal size range of nanoparticles for effective heating/activating of the nanoparticles, we use an extended Lorentz–Mie diffraction theory, taking into account the plasmon-resonance absorption effect observed in metal nanoparticles. This chapter contains material adapted from our publications listed at the end of the chapter. The detailed list of references and reviews on a given topic of this chapter can be found in those original papers.
A proposal for technology-based software engineering curriculum development

A group of software engineering educators, has embarked on a project to implement and support the creation and adaptation of a common set of teaching material and strategies for software engineering education at the undergraduate level of education. The outcome of this project is a framework, in the form of a repository of best practice software engineering teaching modules, assessment artifacts, and case projects that are founded on a set of program outcomes for undergraduate education in software engineering. The philosophy of the research is that the availability of shared pedagogical material that have been developed in a collaborative manner will advance the learning goals, and promote the adoption of teaching strategies that are in the students' best interest.
Platelet Reactivity Is Associated with VAMP8 Expression and a VAMP8 3′UTR Polymorphism

Abstract Variations in platelet reactivity can promote either a hemorrhagic or thrombotic phenotype, and platelet granule secretion is essential for platelet activation and normal hemostasis. We have earlier rigorously phenotyped platelet reactivity in 337 healthy subjects and found excellent reproducibility for secretion-dependent platelet functions. Vesicle associated membrane protein (VAMP)-8, a v-SNARE, is the primary regulator of platelet secretion. Our goals were to determine whether the expression of 9 key molecules involved in the platelet secretory pathway – SNAP23, SNAP25, VAMP3, VAMP8, STX2, STX4, STX7, STXBP3, and RAB27B are associated with the well-known variability in platelet reactivity and investigate potential mechanisms. Leukocyte-depleted platelets were prepared from 10 subjects with hyperreactive platelets and 6 subjects with hyporeactive platelets. No significant variations were observed for SNAP25, STX2, STX4 and RAB27B mRNA levels. Although small variations were observed for other genes examined VAMP8 mRNA levels showed the highest variation. VAMP8 mRNA levels were 4.8-fold higher in hyperreactive platelets than hyporeactive platelets (P=0.0023). Immunoblotting showed that VAMP8 proteins were also significantly elevated by 2.5-fold in the hyperresponsive subjects (P = 0.04). An A-to-G transition in the 3′UTR region of the VAMP8 gene (rs1010) has been consistently shown to be associated with a high risk of myocardial infarction (MI) in European Americans [EA]. We genotyped all 337 subjects (182 EA and 155 African Americans [AA]) in our cohort for this rs1010 SNP. The ‘G’ allele frequency was 0.44 and 0.62 in EA and AA, respectively. The ‘G’ allele was associated with enhanced aggregation to epinephrine (P=0.001) and ADP (P=0.001) in an age dependent manner. The 3′ UTR of VAMP8 has at least 10 predicted microRNAs (miRNAs), 8 of which we have identified in platelets and 5 of which encompass the rs1010 SNP. In summary, variable VAMP8 expression levels appear to be a major regulator of platelet reactivity, and a common VAMP8 SNP known to be associated with MI is associated with the platelet aggregation response to epinephrine and ADP. Studies are currently on-going to assess whether this SNP modifies miRNA binding and whether this miRNA regulates VAMP8 expression.
The Role of Organizational Culture in Operating Room Turnaround Time

This analysis looks at the application of a robust process improvement methodology to achieve a sustained organizational change. The implementation took place in a safety net hospital's operating suites that had a problem with relatively long, nonproductive turnover times between surgical procedures. Organizational leadership empowered stakeholders to use Lean and Six-Sigma tools to develop more efficient organizational processes. These processes were then implemented in a phased approach with careful attention to the organization's culture. The result was a significant reduction in turnover times leading to greater operational efficiency.
The Role of Sodium in Tuning Product Distribution in Syngas Conversion by Rh Catalysts

Alkali metal oxides commonly exist as impurities or promoters in syngas conversion catalysts and can significantly influence the activity and selectivity towards higher oxygenate products. In this study, we investigate the effects of sodium oxide on silica-supported Rh catalysts by experimentally introducing different amounts of sodium and monitoring the change in reactivity and CO adsorption behavior. The experimental results combined with density functional theory (DFT) calculations show that sodium selectively blocks step/defect sites on Rh surfaces, leading to reduced activity but higher C2 oxygenate selectivity. DFT calculations also suggest that sodium present on Rh terrace sites can facilitate CO dissociation, potentially increasing C2 oxygenate production. The overall activity and selectivity toward various products can be changed significantly based on the degree of site blocking by the added sodium.
Latent Profiles of Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior in Elementary School-Age Youth:Associations With Health-Related Quality of Life.

Objective The objectives were to identify and describe profiles of elementary school-age youth based on objective measurements of total time spent in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and sedentary behavior (SB) and in bouts of the activities, to examine predictors of profiles, and to examine whether profiles were differentially associated with physical and psychosocial health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Methods Participants included 204 youth (aged 8-11 years) who wore accelerometers to gather objective activity data. The average proportion of time in MVPA and SB and average proportion of time in MVPA and SB bouts were used for analyses. Participants completed a self-report measure of HRQOL. Latent variable mixture modeling was conducted. Results Overall, participants did not meet the MVPA guideline (M = 50.7 min) and spent 47% of waking hours in SB, indicating that elementary school is a critical developmental period to study activity levels. Three profiles emerged: "Active," "Inactive," and "Moderate." Boys were significantly more likely to be in the Active profile than the other profiles, and older youth were significantly more likely to be in the Inactive profile. After controlling for child sex and age, participants in the Active profile reported significantly higher psychosocial HRQOL than the participants in the other profiles; however, no significant differences were found in physical HRQOL. Conclusions Identification of these naturally occurring profiles suggests need for interventions early in development focused on increasing the intensity of physical activity from light to moderate-to-vigorous for at least 60 min per day as way to improve psychosocial HRQOL.
Designing Technology for an Aging Population

The population of the developed world is aging. Most websites, apps, and digital devices are used by adults aged 50+ as well as by younger adults, so they should be designed accordingly. This one-part course, based on the presenter's recent book, presents age-related factors that affect older adults’ ability to use digital technology, as well as design guidelines that reflect older adults’ varied capabilities, usage patterns, and preferences.
A randomized preference trial of cognitive-behavioral therapy and yoga for the treatment of worry in anxious older adults

Abstract Background Worry is a common problem among older adults. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is the most studied nonpharmacological intervention and it has demonstrated efficacy in reducing late-life worry and anxiety. Although the evidence-base is smaller, yoga has been shown to reduce anxiety and stress. However, little is known about the relative effectiveness of these two nonpharmacological interventions. Further, the impact of patient preference on outcomes is unknown. Purpose: The purpose to this study is to compare the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with yoga for improving late-life worry, anxiety, and sleep. We will also examine the effects of preference and selection on outcomes, adherence, and attrition. Methods We are conducting a two-stage randomized preference trial comparing CBT and yoga for the reduction of worry in a sample of anxious older adults. Five hundred participants will be randomized to either the preference trial (participants choose the intervention; N = 250) or to the randomized trial (participants are randomized to one of the two interventions; N = 250) with equal probability. CBT consists of 10 telephone-based sessions with an accompanying workbook. Yoga consists of 10 weeks of group yoga classes (twice a week) that is modified for use with older adults. Conclusions The study design is based on feedback from anxious older adults who wanted more nonpharmacological options for intervention as well as more input into the intervention they receive. It is the first head-to-head comparison of CBT and yoga for reducing late-life worry and anxiety. It will also provide information about how intervention preference affects outcomes. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02968238 .
A Brain Drain Survey

This chapter analyzes the return intentions of undergraduate and graduate students and professionals by using an original survey data. The chapter employs different statistical techniques such as Chi-square test, correspondence analysis, basic correlation tests, and ordered probit model to show the determinants of migration and (non)return decision regarding study or work field, previous work experience, and so on. The chapter investigates the gender differentiation in return intentions.
Psychological Meanings and Functions of Non-suicidal Self-Injury and Eating Disorders

Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) and eating disorder behaviors have many things in common, including some of the reasons why people do them. Many researchers have taken a syndromal approach, whereby such behaviors are seen as symptoms of some underlying illness, but it may be more fruitful to examine these behaviors from a functional approach, in which maladaptive behaviors are instead goal-directed behaviors performed to obtain some desired end. This chapter focuses on a functional perspective, presenting evidence for a four-factor model that might underlie both eating disorders and NSSI behavior. This model proposes two dichotomous dimensions including contingencies that are automatic versus social and reinforcement that is positive (i.e., followed by the presentation of a favorable stimulus) versus negative (i.e., followed by the removal of an aversive stimulus). Such an approach has a considerable impact on methodological considerations in research and clinical assessment and treatment. It suggests that a functional assessment might be useful in evaluating such patients and influencing treatment options, especially when these behaviors overlap.
Serum PSA after anatomic radical prostatectomy. The Johns Hopkins experience after 10 years

1. With an average follow-up of 53 months (range 12-120 months), 19.4% (185/955) of men have had a cancer recurrence after radical prostatectomy for clinically localized prostate cancer. A detectable serum PSA was the only evidence of recurrence in 11.2%, whereas 2.2% have had a recurrence locally and 6% with distant metastases. 2. The actuarial status at 10 years was 70% for undetectable serum PSA; 23% for isolated serum PSA elevation only; 7% for distant metastases; and 4% for local recurrence. 3. In our study, no patient demonstrated disease progression (local or distant) without detectable serum PSA. 4. The actuarial likelihood of an elevated serum PSA increased with increasing clinical stage, Gleason score, preoperative serum PSA concentration, and pathologic stage. 5. The actuarial recurrence rate for tumors with a Gleason score of 7 was not statistically different from the recurrence rate for lesions of Gleason score 8-10. 6. There exist marked differences in actuarial recurrence-free probabilities for men with tumors of low Gleason score ( or = 7) when there is pathologically established capsular penetration. 7. Patients with preoperative serum PSA concentrations greater than 10.0 ng/mL are at a statistically increased risk of recurrence. 8. Men who have detectable serum PSA within the first year after surgery are at a significantly higher risk of disease progression than those men who have measurable serum PSA in postoperative years two and three. 9. Men with an isolated elevation of serum PSA after radical prostatectomy have a 25% likelihood of harboring an occult local recurrence. However, radiation therapy produces a sustained suppression of PSA to undetectable levels for 2 years or more in only 10% of men. This suggests that radiation therapy is not effective in sterilizing occult local residual tumor in many men. 10. Valuable information concerning disease recurrence and progression can be obtained through early postoperative measurement of serum PSA. This article demonstrates the long-term value of serum PSA as a measure of progression after anatomic radical prostatectomy.
AS-based accountability as a cost-effective DDoS defense

Defenses against botnet-based distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks must demonstrate that in addition to being technically feasible, they are also economically viable, particularly when compared with the two most widely deployed defenses--simple massive overprovisioning of resources to absorb and handle DDoS traffic, and "scrubbing" of incoming traffic by the victim's ISP. We argue that the key to cost-effective handling of DDoS attacks on a network such as the Internet is accountability, meaning that the sources of all traffic can be accurately and reliably identified, and receivers can effectively block traffic to them from any source. We propose a simple approach to directly providing accountability within a group of ASes. It combines strict ingress filtering on all edge traffic with an AS-based infrastructure that allows hosts to request that traffic to them from specific other hosts be blocked at the source. We also propose using the previously proposed "evil bit" in IP headers to allow a group of ASes that implement accountability to collectively reduce the impact of DDoS attacks originating outside their portion of the Internet. Finally, we present evidence for the economic competitiveness of our approach, compared with the current default approaches of massive overprovisioning and ISP scrubbing.
Crystal plasticity based constitutive modeling of ZEK100 magnesium alloy combined with in-situ HEXRD experiments

In the current works, both micro- and macro-mechanical properties of a hexagonal close-packed (HCP) polycrystalline ZEK100 magnesium alloy were investigated. In the experimental perspective, in-situ high energy X-ray diffraction (HEXRD) from a synchrotron source was conducted during the uniaxial tension along the rolling direction (RD) and the transverse direction (TD) to measure the lattice strain evolutions and stress-strain behaviors. In the modeling perspective, crystal plasticity finite element (CPFE) model was developed incorporating the deformation twinning for the HCP-structured metals. The HEXRD experiments and crystal plasticity models were then coupled to characterize the constitutive behaviors of the ZEK100 alloy. The lattice strain data representing the microscopic behavior of the material and the macroscopic stress-strain behavior were then tied together as objective values to estimate the critical resolved shear stress (CRSS) and hardening parameters of available slip and twin systems of the ZEK100 alloy using the developed CPFE model. The stress-strain behavior as well as the lattice strain variation during the uniaxial tension tests are presented using the CPFE model and compared with the actual HEXRD data.
Analysis of a Shunt Phase-Shift Transformer for Multi-Generator Harmonic Elimination

A 12-pulse rectifier with the combination of $\Delta-\Delta$ and $\Delta-$ Y type phase-shift transformers has been commonly used for harmonic cancellation in a large-scale power system. Recently a shut phase-shift transformer was suggested to have the same harmonic cancellation effect with more than 75% size reduction over the traditional phase-shift transformers provided that the power generation system equips with multi-generator that can be regulated with 30° phase difference between the two sources. Theoretically, the harmonic trapping performance of a shunt configuration is equivalent to 12-pulse rectifier with a significantly reduced transformer rating and size. However, the working condition and the performance of a shunt phase-shift transformer rectifier under the practical condition have not been verified. This paper presents a detailed analysis of a harmonic elimination principle of a shunt phase-shift transformer through an equivalent circuit model and a mathematical derivation. The analysis also describes the working condition for a shunt phase-shift transformer rectifier and the effect of phase difference of generators on the harmonic cancellation performance. The derived model is verified with computer simulation under the ideal and non-ideal 30° phase-differential configurations.
Pyroelectric response and temperature-induced α-β phase transitions in α-In 2 Se 3 and other α-III 2 VI 3 (III = Al, Ga, In; VI = S, Se) monolayers

The pyroelectric response of materials is a promising phenomenon that is used in many applications, but two-dimensional (2D) pyroelectricity has not received due attention. Here we report ab initio molecular dynamics simulations to investigate the pyroelectric effect in α-III2VI3 (III = Al, Ga, In; VI = S, Se) monolayers, an emerging class of 2D pyroelectric materials. The in-plane and out-of-plane spontaneous polarizations are found to be robust at room temperature. We demonstrate large pyroelectric response in these materials that is associated with temperature-induced ferroelectric-to-paraelectric phase transitions. Identifying the high-temperature nonpolar phase as the β-phase, we demonstrate strong displacive character in the α-β phase transition, which is achieved through relative displacements of the top three and bottom two atomic sublayers in opposite directions. The present work unravels and highlights the primary pyroelectric effect and the α-β phase transitions that are responsible for the promising pyroelectricity in α-III2VI3 monolayers.
An invariant subbundle of the KZ connection mod $p$ and reducibility of $\hat{sl}_2$ Verma modules mod $p$

We consider the KZ differential equations over $\mathbb C$ in the case, when its multidimensional hypergeometric solutions are one-dimensional integrals. We also consider the same differential equations over a finite field $\mathbb F_p$. We study the space of polynomial solutions of these differential equations over $\mathbb F_p$, constructed in a previous work by V. Schechtman and the author. The module of these polynomial solutions defines an invariant subbundle of the associated KZ connection modulo $p$. We describe the algebraic equations for that subbundle and argue that the equations correspond to highest weight vectors of the associated $\hat{sl}_2$ Verma modules over the field $\mathbb F_p$.
A Comparison of Dentin Tubule Occlusion Properties of Dipotassium Oxalate against Potassium Nitrate: An In Vitro Study.

Aim The aim of this study is to compare the efficacy of dipotassium oxalate and potassium nitrate to occlude dentinal tubules. Materials and methods This study utilized Parkinson model of longitudinal dentin tubule occluding properties of dentifrices under a 4-day acid challenge. Dentin disks of approximately 1.5 mm thick were sectioned from the crowns of the freshly extracted molars. The disks were randomized into three sets of 15 and treated with dipotassium oxalate, potassium nitrate, or used as a control. The disks were then subjected to a 4-day acid challenge and evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results On days 1, 2, and 3, dipotassium oxalate showed significant occlusion of dentinal tubules. On day 4, no significant difference was observed between dipotassium oxalate and potassium nitrate. Both test groups showed better occlusion properties in comparison to the control. Conclusion Through the use of a 4-day acid challenge, this study demonstrates that both agents can indeed occlude dentinal tubules. Initially, dipotassium oxalate does occlude dentinal tubules faster than potassium nitrate. However, at the conclusion of the acid challenge, minimal differences were observed in occlusion rate among the two agents. Further studies should be conducted to determine the efficacy of these two agents. Clinical significance Both dipotassium oxalate and potassium nitrate can help treat patients with dentinal hypersensitivity.
In Defense of Neural Disenhancement to Promote Animal Welfare

I argue that animal welfare advocates don’t act wrongly if they promote research into ways of neurally disenhancing animals. More precisely, I contend that even if we conclude that it’s wrong to disenhance animals because it’s the wrong kind of solution to the situation that we’ve created, the considerations in its favor make it permissible for animal welfare advocates to support its development and use for the time being. This is because total suffering is likely to be substantially worse without such research; because disenhancement is not as bad, morally speaking, as it can initially seem to be; and because it’s a promising way of mitigating the risks involved in not disenhancing animals.
Fire properties of combustible materials from unsteady burning

Abstract Six (6) polymers, 2–6 mm thick, were tested in a cone calorimeter by a standard method at various external heat fluxes (irradiance). The ratio of the effective heat of combustion to the effective heat of gasification per unit mass of volatile fuel, Hc/Hg, also known at the heat release parameter (HRP) or combustibility ratio, was obtained as a sample average for unsteady burning at multiple heat fluxes. Global values of Hc/Hg from unsteady burning are biased by heat flux dependent losses during the test, but are generally within the range of literature values for steady burning. Linearization of the unsteady energy balance provides a parameter (γ) that is the efficiency with which radiant energy is converted to combustion energy. This parameter is in the range, γ = 0.6–0.9, for the polymers of this study.
Glomerular Hyperfiltration Is Associated with Liver Disease Severity in Children with Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Objectives To determine the prevalence of renal impairment in a large cohort of youths with histologically confirmed nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and to determine its association with liver disease severity. Study design Clinical, laboratory, and histology data were collected retrospectively in a pediatric cohort with biopsy-confirmed NAFLD at a tertiary care center between 2010 and 2017. Histological NAFLD severity was scored using validated criteria. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was calculated and categorized as low ( 136 mL/min/1.73 m2). Univariate and multivariate modeling were used to determine differences between the GFR groups and to control for confounders. Results The cohort comprised 179 patients (82% non-Hispanic; median age; 14 years; IQR, 12-16 years). One-third of the patients had abnormal renal function, including 36 (20%) with glomerular hyperfiltration and 26 (15%) with low GFR. In multivariable logistic regression, compared with normal GFR, hyperfiltration was independently associated with higher NAFLD activity score (aOR, 2.96; 95% CI, 1.49-5.87; P = .002), after adjusting for age, sex, ethnicity, obesity severity, presence of type 2 diabetes mellitus, and medications. Conclusions In this large cohort with histologically confirmed NAFLD, renal impairment was highly prevalent and associated with liver disease severity, independent of obesity severity. Screening patients with confirmed NAFLD for renal complication is recommended.
Addressing Unreliability in Emerging Devices and Non-von Neumann Architectures Using Coded Computing

Computing systems are evolving rapidly. At the device level, emerging devices are beginning to compete with traditional CMOS systems. At the architecture level, novel architectures are successfully avoiding the communication bottleneck that is a central feature, and a central limitation, of the von Neumann architecture. Furthermore, such systems are increasingly plagued by unreliability. This unreliability arises at device or gate-level in emerging devices, and can percolate up to processor or system-level if left unchecked. The goal of this article is to survey recent advances in reliable computing using unreliable elements, with an eye on nonsilicon and non-von Neumann architectures. We first observe that instead of aiming for generic computing problems, the community could use “dwarfs of modern computing,” first noted in the high-performance computing (HPC) community, as a starting point. These computing problems are the basic building blocks of almost all scientific computing, machine learning, and data analytics today. Next, we survey the state of the art in “coded computing,” which is an emerging area that advances on classical algorithm-based fault-tolerance (ABFT) and brings a fundamental information-theoretic perspective. By weaving error-correcting codes into a computing algorithm, coded computing provides dramatic improvements on solutions, as well as obtains novel fundamental limits, for problems that have been open for more than 30 years. We introduce existing and novel coded computing techniques in the context of “coded dwarfs,” where a specific dwarf’s computation is made resilient by applying coding. We discuss how, for the same redundancy, “coded dwarfs” are significantly more resilient compared to classical techniques such as replication. Furthermore, by examining a widely popular computation task—training large neural networks—we demonstrate how coded dwarfs can be applied to address this fundamentally nonlinear problem. Finally, we discuss practical challenges and future directions in implementing coded computing techniques on emerging and existing nonsilicon and/or non-von Neumann architectures.
Prospective associations among relationship abuse, sexual harassment and bullying in a community sample of sexual minority and exclusively heterosexual youth

Abstract Introduction Sexual minority youth (SMY) are at significantly greater risk for experiencing adolescent relationship abuse (ARA) than exclusively heterosexual youth, yet little is known about the factors that elevate their risks for such abuse. Peer victimization (i.e., bullying, sexual harassment) has been associated with ARA among heterosexual youth. SMY experience higher rates of peer victimization than heterosexual youth, suggesting that it may be a risk factor for ARA among these youth. Using longitudinal data from a community sample of adolescents recruited from the northeastern US, we examined whether sexual identity was associated prospectively with ARA, and whether that relationship would be indirect, and mediated via bullying and sexual harassment at a 12-month follow-up. We expected to find higher rates of peer victimization and ARA among SMY than heterosexual youth, and we expected that sexual harassment and bullying would predict subsequent relationship abuse. Methods Adolescents (N = 800; 58% female; 81% European-American; 19% SMY) between 13 and 15 years (M = 14.45, SD = 0.85) completed a web survey at baseline, 6-months and 12-months. Results Consistent with prior studies, SMY reported higher rates of bullying, sexual harassment, and relationship abuse than heterosexual youth. SMY who reported sexual harassment at baseline were more likely to report relationship abuse over time. Contrary to our expectations, however, bully victimization did not predict subsequent relationship abuse. Conclusions Sexual harassment can be particularly harmful for SMY because it targets gender and sexual identity at a formative developmental period and puts youth at risk for relationship abuse.
Risk Factors and Outcomes Associated with Blunt Cerebrovascular Injury in Patients with Mild or Moderate Traumatic Brain Injury

Background Blunt cerebrovascular injury (BCVI) represents a spectrum of traumatic injuries to the carotid and vertebral arteries that is an often-overlooked source of morbidity and mortality. Its incidence, risk factors, and effect on outcomes in patients with mild or moderate traumatic brain injury (mTBI) have not been studied independently. Methods The National Trauma Data Bank from 2013 to 2017 was queried to identify patients with mTBI who suffered blunt injuries. BCVI was identified using abbreviated injury scores and included blunt carotid artery injury (BCAI) and blunt vertebral artery injury (BVAI). A binary logistic regression was used to identify patient-related and injury-related factors associated with BCVI. Binary logistic regressions were also performed to evaluate the effect of BCVI on stroke, in-hospital mortality, nonroutine discharge disposition, total length of stay (LOS), intensive care unit LOS, and number of days mechanically ventilated. Results Of 485,880 patients with mTBI, there were 4,382 (0.9%) with BCVI. Cervical spine fracture was the strongest factor associated with BCAI (odds ratio [OR], 1.97; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 1.77–2.19), followed by mandible fracture and basilar skull fracture. Cervical spine fracture also had the strongest association with BVAI (OR, 18.28; 95% CI, 16.47–20.28), followed by spinal cord injury and neck contusion. Stroke was more common in patients with BCAI (OR, 5.50; 95% CI, 4.19–7.21) and BVAI (OR, 7.238; 95% CI, 5.929–8.836). BVAI increased the odds of mortality, but BCAI did not. Both were associated with nonroutine discharge and increased LOS, intensive care unit LOS, and number of days mechanically ventilated. Conclusions The incidence of BCVI in patients with mTBI is low, and it usually does not require invasive treatment. However, it is associated with greater odds of stroke and negative outcomes. Knowledge of risk factors for BCVI may tailor further investigation to aid prompt diagnosis.
Why do per capita COVID-19 Case Rates Differ Between U.S. States?

Abstract Background The popular press has explored the differences among U.S. states in rates of COVID-19 cases, mostly focusing on political party differences, and often mentioning that political party differences in health outcomes are confounded by demographic and socio-economic differences between Democratic areas and Republican areas. The purpose of this paper is to present a thorough analysis of these issues. Design and Methods State-specific COVID-19 cases per 100,000 people was the main outcome studied, with explanatory variables from Bureau of Census surveys, including percentages of the state population that were Hispanic, black, below poverty level, had at least a bachelor’s degree, or were uninsured, along with median age, median income, population density, and degree of urbanization. We also included political party in power as an explanatory variable in multiple linear regression. The units of analysis in this study are the 50 U.S. states. Results All explanatory variables were at least marginally statistically significantly associated with case rate in univariate regression analysis, except for population density and urbanization. All the census characteristics were at least marginally associated with party in power in one factor analysis of variance, except for percentage black. In a forward stepwise procedure in a multivariable model for case rate, percentages of the state population that were Hispanic or black, median age, median income, population density, and (residual) percentage poverty were retained as statistically significant and explained 62% of the variation between states in case rates. In a model with political party in power included, along with any additional variables that notably affected the adjusted association between party in power and case rate, 69% of the variance between states in case rates was explained, and adjusted case rates per 100,000 people were 2155 for states with Democratic governments, 2269 for states with mixed governments, and 2738 for Republican-led states. These estimates are based on data through October 8, 2020. Conclusions U.S. state-specific demographic and socio-economic variables are strongly associated with the states’ COVID-19 case rates, so must be considered in analysis of variation in case rates between the states. Adjusting for these factors, states with Democrats as the party in power have lower case rates than Republican-led states.
Tempered stable process, first passage time, and path-dependent option pricing

In this paper, we will discuss an approximation of the characteristic function of the first passage time for a Levy process using the martingale approach. The characteristic function of the first passage time of the tempered stable process is provided explicitly or by an indirect numerical method. This will be applied to the perpetual American option pricing and the barrier option pricing. For the numerical illustration, we calibrate risk neutral process parameters using S&P 500 index option prices and apply those parameters to find prices of perpetual American option and barrier option.
"I Had to Make Them Feel at Ease": Narrative Accounts of How Women With Breast Cancer Navigate Social Support.

Social scientific studies of social support predominantly focus on the positive associations between social support and emotional well-being. The negative aspects of social support have received mu...
‘Essentially an American Institution Planted on Foreign Soil’: The American Library in Paris, the Paris Herald, the Paris Tribune and Ex Libris

In 1920, the American Library in Paris (ALP) was incorporated, with the desire to ‘be a somewhat adequate representation of American life and thought’ in the city. This paper will argue that the AL...
A delicate balance: role of MMP-9 in brain development and pathophysiology of neurodevelopmental disorders

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a critical regulator of neural network development and plasticity. As neuronal circuits develop, the ECM stabilizes synaptic contacts, while its cleavage has both permissive and active roles in the regulation of plasticity. Matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) is a member of a large family of zinc-dependent endopeptidases that can cleave ECM and several cell surface receptors allowing for synaptic and circuit level reorganization. It is becoming increasingly clear that the regulated activity of MMP-9 is critical for central nervous system (CNS) development. In particular, MMP-9 has a role in the development of sensory circuits during early postnatal periods, called 'critical periods.' MMP-9 can regulate sensory-mediated, local circuit reorganization through its ability to control synaptogenesis, axonal pathfinding and myelination. Although activity-dependent activation of MMP-9 at specific synapses plays an important role in multiple plasticity mechanisms throughout the CNS, misregulated activation of the enzyme is implicated in a number of neurodegenerative disorders, including traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer's disease. Growing evidence also suggests a role for MMP-9 in the pathophysiology of neurodevelopmental disorders including Fragile X Syndrome. This review outlines the various actions of MMP-9 during postnatal brain development, critical for future studies exploring novel therapeutic strategies for neurodevelopmental disorders.
Comparison of the Non-Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor Lersivirine with its Pyrazole and Imidazole Isomers

Lersivirine is a potent non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor with exceptional mutant resilience. Here, we compare the pharmacological and pharmacokinetic profile of lersivirine with its pyrazole and imidazole isomers and briefly explore the profile of these series. This work establishes lersivirine as the outstanding molecule in this set.
1. Assessing Globalization’s Critics: “Talkers Are No Good Doers?”

This paper is about the critics of the "doers" of globalization. It describes who they are, where they came from, what they want, how economists, policymakers, and others might understand them better, and where globalization might head from here. Many critics are themselves strongly internationalist and want to see globalization proceed, but under different rules. Some, particularly the protesters in the streets, focus mainly on what is wrong with the world. But some of them put forward broad alternative visions and others offer detailed recommendations for alleviating the problems they see arising from status quo globalization. Most of them have roots in long-standing transnational advocacy efforts to protect human rights and the environment and reduce poverty around the world. What brings them together today is their shared concern that the process by which globalization's rules are being written and implemented is undermining democracy and failing to spread the benefits broadly. This paper sketches the key issues and concerns that motivate the critics in a way that is broadly representative and intelligible to economists. It finds more resonance for the critics' agenda in economics than they commonly recognize. And it attempts to capture the concerns of Southern as well as Northern critics and to analyze the issues that divide as well as bring them together. Finally, it evaluates those issues and alternative proposals on which even globalization enthusiasts and the critics might come together cooperatively.
Periodontal disease in the beagle dog A cross sectional clinical study

A cross sectional study was done in seventy-four beagle dogs from one to twelve years of age. Gingivitis, calculus, plaque, loss of attachment, pocket depth and width of keratinized gingiva were scored and descriptive statistics calculated. Gingivitis differed very little in the maxillary and mandibular incisor and canine regions at differing ages, while it was more severe on the buccal gingiva of premolars and first molars. Calculus scores were highest on the buccal surface of the maxillary P4 followed by the buccal surfaces of the maxillary Ml and mandibular P4. Plaque scores were high for the very young dogs and showed only slightly to moderately higher values with increasing age. The buccal surface of the maxillary P4 had the highest plaque score, followed closely by the buccal surfaces of the maxillary M1 and mandibular P4. Plaque scores were low in the incisor regions and on the lingual surfaces. On the buccal surfaces plaque scores increased from the C to P4, and then decreased in the molar regions. Loss of attachment was minimal for anterior teeth and was greater in the premolar and maxillary M1 regions with older age. The greatest loss occurred on the distal surface of the maxillary P4, the mesial surface of maxillary M1, and distal surface of mandibular P4. The greatest difference existed between younger dogs and those older than six to seven years. Greater pocket depths were not generally proportionate to the greater loss of attachment, since recession accompanied loss of attachment. Pocket formation was found most often at the distal surface of the mandibular P4 in dogs six to seven years of age. The width of keratinized gingiva varied only slightly and inconsistantly with age, except that slightly narrower widths were found at six to seven years of age. Periodontal disease in the beagle dog occurred in specific areas with a high plaque accumulation in young dogs and more gingivitis, calculus formation, and loss of attachment in older animals.
What produces the high densities observed in solar flare plasmas

Attention is drawn to the implications of the high densities observed in flare plasmas in the wide temperature range from 10 to the 4th K to more than 10 to the 7th K. The chromospheric evaporation theory for the decay phase is discussed, and it is found that it is not consistent with the observations. It is pointed out that all the flare mechanisms proposed so far, e.g., magnetic field reconnection in various geometries, have entirely ignored the fundamental problem of how the high densities arise in the first place, and, in fact, they are unable to answer this question. It is suggested that compressional heatings of a flaring loop might be responsible for the density and emission measure (EM) increases observed in flare plasmas. Chromospheric evaporation associated with local heating in the initial rising phase of the flare, in distinction to the existing evaporation theory which assumes a coronal heating source, is also discussed. Possible observational tests, utilizing the newly launched Solar Maximum Mission (SMM) satellite, are presented.
A rapid purification procedure for glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase from Bakers' yeast.

Abstract A new procedure utilizing column chromatography has been devised for the purification of yeast glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase. It yields enzyme of the highest specific activity in a shorter period of time and with a better yield than the traditional procedure. The isozyme isolated is the most abundant and most acidic of the set of isozymes previously identified.
Circular Compositional Reasoning about Liveness

Compositional proofs about systems of many components often involve apparently circular arguments. That is, correctness of component A must be assumed when verifying component B, and vice versa. The apparent circularity of such arguments can be resolved by induction over time. However, previous methods for such circular compositional proofs apply only to safety properties. This paper presents a method of circular compositional reasoning that applies to liveness properties as well. It is based on a new circular compositional rule implemented in the SMV proof assistant. The method is illustrated using Tomasulo's algorithm for out-of-order instruction execution. An implementation is proved live for arbitrary resources using compositional model checking.
Ties that Bind Business Groups: Evidence from an Emerging Market

We conceive of emerging market business groups as tight networks of relationships embedded within the looser network that constitutes the economy. Using data from Chile, we identify the social and economic ties that robustly delineate groups from the larger economy: owner overlap, indirect equity ties, and director interlocks. Contrary to earlier field-based and theoretical studies, neither family bonds nor direct equity interlocks strongly distinguish groups. Non-equity relationships affect expected economic returns and are not mere vestiges of group history. The analysis sheds light on what determines the strength of ties and how boundedly rational individuals simplify complex, inter-firm networks.