cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
On the structure of the solution set for periodic boundary value problems

and we give some applications of the obtained results to periodic boundary value problems. The simple solvability of (1) has been intensively studied in recent years, particularly in the case where L is a Fredholm operator of index 0 and in connection with boundary value problems. See for example the extensive bibliographies in J. Mawhin [lo], L. Cesari, R. Kannan and J. Schuur [3] and M. Furi, M. Martelli and A. Vignoli [S]. In the case where E = F, L is the identity operator and h is continuous and compact the set of solutions of (1) (i.e. the set of fixed points of h) is a continuum provided that h can be uniformly approximated by a sequence {h,} of completely continuous maps such that the set of fixed points of h, is a continuum for each n. This result is due to Krasnosel’skii and Perov and is an abstract version of the classical Hukuhara-Kneser property for ordinary differential equations (see P. Rabinowitz 1111). With essentially the same assumptions M. Aronszajin [l] proved that the set of fixed points of h is nonempty, compact and acyclic. (see Lasry and Robert [S]). In this paper, by means of a theorem proved in [5] (see also R. Gaines and J. Mawhin [6]), we extend the result of Krasnosel’skii and Perov and the result of Aronszajn to the more general setting of linear Fredholm operators of index 0. As a consequence we show that the set of solutions for particular periodic boundary value problems for ordinary differential equations is nonempty, compact, and acyclic.
Temperature sensing with thermochromic liquid crystals

A review of the most recent developments in the application of thermochromic liquid crystals to fluid flow temperature measurement is presented. The experimental aspects including application, illumination, recording, and calibration of liquid crystals on solid surfaces, as well as in fluid suspensions, are discussed. Because of the anisotropic optical properties of liquid crystals, on-axis lighting/viewing arrangements, combined with in-situ calibration techniques, generally provide the most accurate temperature assessments. However, where on-axis viewing is not possible, calibration techniques can be employed, which reduce the uncertainty associated with off-axis viewing and lighting arrangements. It has been determined that the use of hue definitions that display a linear trend across the color spectrum yield the most accurate correlation with temperature. The uncertainty of both wide-band and narrow-band thermochromic liquid crystal calibration techniques can be increased due to hysteresis effects, which occur when the temperature of the liquid crystals exceeds their maximum activation temperature. Although liquid crystals are commonly used to provide time-mean temperature measurements, techniques are available which allow the monitoring of temporal changes. Selected examples illustrating the use of thermochromic liquid crystals are shown, and a survey of reported temperature measurement uncertainties is presented.
Genetic analysis of asthma exacerbations.

Abstract Background Identifying genetic markers of susceptibility to exacerbations may improve patient management, decrease morbidity, and lead to drug development. Objectives To assess whether genetic markers associated with severe asthma exacerbations in previous reports are associated with less severe events that do not require intensive care and intubation and to identify additional markers in candidate genes and throughout the genome. Methods A total of 199 patients and 502 controls (individuals without an exacerbation) were identified from 4 clinical trials. We genotyped 51 markers from 17 genes previously reported to be associated with exacerbations; a whole genome scan was used to identify additional markers. Admixture analysis was conducted to characterize the presence of ancestral groups. The genetic marker effects were assessed by logistic regression for each study followed by a meta-analysis. Results Several coding variants in the IL4R gene had a genetic effect across 3 studies, including rs1805011 in IL4R ( P IFNB1 gene showed evidence of association ( P P = .0002, we were unable to confirm previously published results for less severe events. The whole genome scan identified genes related to mast cell mediator release. The admixture analysis suggests that ancestry was best characterized by the presence of 3 ancestral groups. Conclusion We were unable to confirm previously reported associations of genetic markers with asthma exacerbations. Although, in general, the patients studied had less severe asthma than patients in earlier reports, these results suggest involvement of similar pathways. Trial Registration clinicaltrials.gov Identifiers: NTC00452699, NCT00452348, NTC00102765, NCT00843193.
Collaborative Practices Related to Augmentative and Alternative Communication Current Personnel Preparation Programs

Although speech-language pathologists (SLPs) are typically responsible for the treatment of communication problems, the development and implementation of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) interventions requires the expertise and involvement of additional educational team members (e.g., general and special education teachers, physical therapists, parents). Effective collaboration by these team members is necessary to develop and implement appropriate AAC interventions for students with disabilities. However, it is unclear if university preservice training programs for SLPS are providing appropriate knowledge and skill training in the collaborative skills that are critical to the appropriate provision of services to students who require AAC. This article discusses specific collaborative skills required for AAC service delivery and examines available information about the state of the profession with regard to preprofessional preparation in collaboration skills for team members. Data from a pi...
From Portfolio Management to Portfolio Optimization Application Portfolio Management in the SOA Era

Application Portfolio Management (APM) in today’s Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) enabled world is becoming increasingly difficult. A traditional APM approach does not address the need to manage not only the business applications but all the SOA related assets (i.e., services, components, applications and underlying infrastructure). Improper portfolio management during and after SOA implementation could undermine business benefits and hinder institutionalization. The Service And Value Excellence Application Portfolio Management (SAVE APM) approach addresses all these deficiencies. Similar in nature to a traditional APM, it applies a patented, leading edge Application Balanced Scorecard Optimizer (ABSCO) “fuzzy logic” algorithm together with “Monte Carlo” simulation to actively manage and optimize the portfolio of all the SOA related assets. This approach is also highly applicable to traditional, non-SOA environments and portfolios, including IT Portfolio Management.
Multirate Sampled-Data Output Feedback Using High-Gain Observers

We consider multirate sampled-data output feedback control of a class of nonlinear systems using high-gain observers where the analog-to-digital sampling rate is faster than the digital-to-analog sampling rate. We show that if a single-rate sampled-data state feedback controller globally stabilizes the origin, then the multirate output feedback controller achieves semiglobal practical stabilization.
How Our Majors Believe They Learn: Student Learning Strategies in an Undergraduate Theory Course

In this study, I set out to gain a better understanding of the learning strategies typically used by sociology majors, whether and to what extent they engage in metacognitive strategies, and whether teaching about learning results in students reporting greater use of self-regulatory behaviors. I discuss the importance of self-regulated learning and metacognition for student success and describe the ways in which I incorporated instruction in these skills into an undergraduate theory course. Data collected over the past five semesters illustrate the positive effects of these activities on student motivation and use of cognitive and metacognitive strategies. Students report greater use of higher-level cognitive learning strategies such as critical thinking and are more intrinsically motivated as a result of taking the course. This quantitative investigation of students’ use of cognitive and metacognitive skills adds to McKinney’s (2007) qualitative research on the process of learning sociology.
Notes on Syllable Structure in Three Arabic Dialects

Cet article examine quelques alternances tres productives dans trois dialectes de l’arabe moderne : levantin, bani-hassan (bedouin) et soudanais. La premiere partie de l’article elabore une distinction entre « syllabes de base » (CV, CVV, CVC) et « syllabes marginales » (CVCC, CVVC). Il est suggere que les syllabes de base sont erigees dans la phonologie lexicale alors que les syllabes maginales sont construites dans la composante postlexicale. La deuxieme partie de l’article propose une analyse de wasla (« l’enjambement »). Nous demontrons, en outre, que le fait d’etablir une distinction entre le niveau segmental et le niveau du squelette permet d’expliquer plusieurs aspects de ce phenomene.
Role of neutral base recombination in high gain AlGaAs/GaAs HBT's

Neutral base recombination is a limiting factor controlling the maximum gain of AlGaAs/GaAs HBT's with base sheet resistances between 100 and 350 /spl Omega///spl square/. In this work, we investigate five series of AlGaAs/GaAs HBT growths in which the base thickness was varied between 500 and 1600 /spl Aring/ and the base doping level between 2.9/spl times/ and 4.7/spl times/10/sup 19/ cm/sup -3/. The dc current gain of large area devices (L=75 /spl mu/m/spl times/75 /spl mu/m) varies by as much as a factor of two at high injection levels for a fixed base sheet resistance, depending on the growth optimization. One of these series (Series TA) has the highest current gains ever reported in this base sheet resistance range, with dc current gains over 225 (@ 200 A/cm/sup 2/) at a base sheet resistance of 330 /spl Omega///spl square/. A high dc current gain of 220 (@ 10 kA/cm/sup 2/) was also confirmed in small area devices (L=8 /spl mu/m/spl times/8 /spl mu/m). High-frequency tests on a separate set of wafers grown under the same conditions indicate these high current gains can be achieved without compromising the RF characteristics: Both high and normal gain devices exhibit an f/sub t//spl sim/68 GHz and f/sub max//spl sim/100 GHz. By fitting the base current as a sum of two components, one due to recombination in the neutral base and the other in the space charge region, we conclude that an improvement in the minority carrier lifetime is responsible for the observed increase in dc current gain. Moreover, we observe a thickness-dependent variation in the effective minority carrier lifetime as the gains increase, along with a nonlinear dependence of current gain on base doping. Both phenomena are discussed in terms of an increase in Auger and radiative recombination relative to Hall-Shockley-Read recombination in optimized samples.
E.M. FREEMAN: Early Research on Cereal Diseases and the Rise of Plant Pathology at the University of Minnesota

▪ Abstract E.M. Freeman's role in early cereal disease research and the beginning of plant pathology at the University of Minnesota has been overshadowed largely by the enormous prestige of his student, E.C. Stakman. During the first decade of the twentieth century, Freeman was responsible for the transferral from Europe to the United States and the subsequent nurturing of important conceptual and technical developments in the area of cereal disease pathology. Under Freeman's leadership, these ideas would come to shape the direction of plant pathology research at the University of Minnesota for decades to follow.
Prognosis for ambulation in cerebral palsy: a population-based study.

Objectives. To determine independent predictors of ambulation among children with cerebral palsy and to develop a simple tool that estimates the probability that a child will walk. Methods. In a retrospective study of all children with cerebral palsy who were not yet walking at 2 to 3 1 ⁄2 years of age, while receiving services from the California De- partment of Developmental Services during the years 1987-1999, we analyzed medical and functional data obtained annually by Department of Developmental Ser- vices physicians and social workers. Using logistic re- gression analyses, we determined independent predic- tors of a child's ability to walk well alone at least 20 feet, without assistive devices, by age 6. We then estimated the probabilities of walking at various levels of ability over time, using multistate survival analysis. Results. Of 5366 study subjects, 2295 (43%) were eval- uated at age 6; 12.8% could walk independently and 18.4% walked with support. Independent predictors of successful ambulation included early motor milestones such as sitting (odds ratio: 12.5; 95% confidence interval: 5.8-27.2) and pulling to a stand (odds ratio: 28.5; 95% confidence interval: 13.4-60.4) when compared with lack of rolling at age 2, cerebral palsy type other than spastic quadriparesis (odds ratio: 2.2; 95% confidence interval: 1.5-3.1), and preserved visual function (odds ratio: 2.4; 95% confidence interval: 1.1-5.4). Our ambulation charts depict the probability of remaining nonambulatory, tran- sitioning to 1 of 3 possible ambulatory states, or expiring at all subsequent ages through age 14. Conclusion. The ambulation charts provide a simple straightforward way to estimate the probability that a child with cerebral palsy who is nonambulatory at 2 to 3 1 ⁄2 years of age will eventually walk with or without support. Pediatrics 2004;114:1264-1271; cerebral palsy, ambulation, prognosis.
A Bayesian Dynamic Spatio-Temporal Interaction Model: An Application to Prostate Cancer Incidence

During the past three decades, prostate cancer incidence has changed substantially in the United States. A fully Bayesian hierarchical spatio-temporal interaction model is proposed to estimate prostate cancer incidence rates in the state of Iowa. We introduce random spatial effects to capture the local dependence among regions, random temporal effects to explain the nonlinearity of rates over time, and random spatio-temporal interactions. In addition, we introduce fixed age effects because most epidemiologic data are strongly related to age. We find that prostate cancer incidence in Iowa counties increased sharply over age while incidence rates increased initially, then decreased over time. We identify hot spots of high and low rates for age groups and time periods using disease mapping.
Being True and Being You: Race, Gender, Class, and the Fieldwork Experience

Fieldwork advice has increased and improved over the years. Yet, the bulk of political science fieldwork advice is general; it assumes that the subject to whom advice is given is simply a political scientist—in training, perhaps—with no other salient identities that might intercede (but see Mazzei and O'Brien 2005 and the PS 2006 fieldwork symposium, The Methodologies of Field Research in the Middle East, for recent exceptions). Of course in reality it is not just the fieldwork setting that varies; the relationship of the researcher to the field matters a great deal—and that may be much more dependent on our specific identities than we have previously credited. It is not simply the subjects that we study, but us as well who have to negotiate sometimes sticky issues of race, class, gender, nationality, and so forth.
How Does Stress Affect the Immune Response

It has been well established that the immune and neuroendocrine systems interact and communicate with each other, a relationship that contributes to the regulation of cell-mediated and humoral responses [1-4]. The effect of stress on immune responses has been noted for centuries; observations that psychological stress influences the body’s ability to respond to infection and the recovery from wounds in battle have been recorded throughout history. Recently, short-term stress has been shown to enhance immune responses whereas long-term stress leads to suppression. Although the mechanisms responsible for these observations have still not been fully elucidated data from this laboratory indicate that molecules produced in response to stress may play a major role. More surprisingly, it appears that the active moieties are extremely small peptides cleaved from larger neuroendocrine molecules.
Development and Testing of Chemically-Based Self-Consolidating Concrete

Self-consolidating concrete (SCC) has the potential to significantly reduce costs associated with concrete construction. SCC is a highly flowable, nonsegregating concrete that has a variety of advantages over conventional concrete (CC). However, SCC is not without its problems, which can include increased creep and shrinkage, as well as decreased bond and shear strength. The goal of this research project was to evaluate the creep, shrinkage, and shear behavior of a chemically-based SCC mix. One of the benefits of a chemically-based approach is the potential to eliminate the negative side effects of many SCC mixes. The investigation included development of the mix design, construction and testing of creep and shrinkage specimens, and construction and testing of full-scale beam specimens to evaluate the shear behavior. The results indicate that a chemically-based SCC performs as well or better than conventional portland-cement concrete.
Mycoplasma gallisepticum-Induced Alterations in Chicken Red Blood Cells

Incubation of Mycoplasma gallisepticum with washed chicken red blood cells for 1 hr or 5 hr resulted in altered red blood cell surface morphology and perforations of the cells.
Architectural Characterization and Three-Dimensional Modeling of a Carbonate Channel–Levee Complex: Permian San Andres Formation, Last Chance Canyon, New Mexico, U.S.A.

Abstract Complete understanding of outcrop-scale stratal architectures requires extrapolation of two-dimensional depositional cross sections into three dimensions. This study integrates a high-resolution digital outcrop model with outcrop observations to create a three-dimensional geologic model of distal outer-ramp carbonate stratigraphy. Data were taken from sinuous canyon-wall exposures of the Permian San Andres Formation of Last Chance Canyon, New Mexico. A series of laterally extensive carbonate benches previously interpreted as constructional sponge mud mounds are here modeled as a channel–levee complex that is characterized by an alternating history of aggradation punctuated by erosional sediment bypass. Levee mudstones have an erosional base, contain dolomitized peloidal thin beds, and have limited faunal constituents. Primary levees were initiated as a carbonate apron and transformed into a low-relief channel–levee system as a result of deposition by dilute turbidity currents. Subsequent sediment bypass incised through the pre-established channels and into the underlying facies. The fill consists of skeletal packstone lags and fine peloidal packstones, which are correlated to coral- and sponge-bearing secondary levee deposits that drape the primary levees. Debrites, also found within some channelized areas, are thought to represent channel-margin oversteepening and slumping. Channel widths range from approximately 300 to 800 m, and channel-to-levee relief reaches up to 40 m. Three-dimensional surface models representing architectural elements of the channel–levee complex confirm outcrop observations. Surfaces that were modeled as a best fit to the three-dimensional outcrop tracings reveal development of low-sinuosity channels in previously established bathymetric lows created by earlier phases of sediment bypass and erosion. Sequence stratigraphic interpretations suggest that the channel–levee complex developed during the highstand part of a long-term transgression. The overall transgressive setting led to generation of substantial quantities of carbonate mud in more proximal areas of the ramp. Accumulated mud in the source region was transported down depositional dip during highstand parts of high-frequency cycles and resulted in growth of the levees. Carbonate channel–levee complexes are not likely to form during highstand sequences in which the source sediment is grain-dominated. Leveed channels are a viable component of deep-water carbonate settings and may be more common than has been previously recognized. Complex stratal architectures found in this channel–levee complex could be analogous to apparently gullied slopes of muddy carbonate ramps, especially those developed in transgressive sequences.
Characteristics indicating adenomyosis coexisting with leiomyomas: a case–control study

Background Adenomyosis is rarely diagnosed before hysterectomy and commonly coexists with uterine leiomyomas. The objective of this study was to identify distinct features of a concurrent diagnosis of adenomyosis in women with uterine leiomyomas. Methods We conducted a case-control study of women undergoing hysterectomy with a histologic diagnosis of both adenomyosis and leiomyomas and women with uterine leiomyomas but no adenomyosis. A retrospective medical record review of hospital and ambulatory records was performed to ascertain sociodemographic and anthropometric variables, as well as to confirm intraoperative and pathologic findings. Results Our study sample comprised 255 patients, 85 women with adenomyosis and leiomyomas and 170 women with only leiomyomas. In multivariable logistic regression analyses, women with adenomyosis and leiomyomas were more likely to have more pelvic pain [odds ratio (OR) 3.4, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.8-6.4], have less fibroid burden (OR per doubling in fibroid size 0.6, 95% CI 0.5-0.8), were more likely to be parous (OR 3.8, 95% CI 1.4-10.5) and have lower body mass index (OR per 5 unit increase in BMI 0.8, 95% CI 0.6-1.0) when compared with women with leiomyomas alone. Conclusions Women undergoing hysterectomy with both adenomyosis and leiomyomas have a number of different clinical features compared with women with only leiomyomas at the time of hysterectomy. Women with substantial pain despite a smaller fibroid burden may be more likely to have concomitant adenomyosis.
Dark energy from α -attractors

A class of inflation theories called $\ensuremath{\alpha}$-attractors has been investigated recently with interesting properties interpolating between quadratic potentials, the Starobinsky model, and an attractor limit. Here we examine their use for late-time cosmic acceleration. We generalize the class and demonstrate how it can interpolate between thawing and freezing dark energy, and reduce the fine-tuning of initial conditions, allowing $w\ensuremath{\approx}\ensuremath{-}1$ for a prolonged period or as a de Sitter attractor.
Symmetries of subfactors motivated by Aschbacher–Guralnick conjecture

Abstract Aschbacher–Guralnick conjecture states that the number of conjugacy classes of maximal subgroups of a finite group is bounded by the number of conjugacy classes of the group. Attempting to generalize this to the more general framework of subfactors, we are led to investigate the actions of two finite symmetry groups of a subfactor on the first non-trivial relative commutant of the subfactor which are compatible with their actions on the intermediate subfactors. Our first main result is that the actions of these two groups commute, and thus we can formulate a sensible subfactor generalization of Aschbacher–Guralnick conjecture which reduces to the original Aschbacher–Guralnick conjecture in the group subfactor case. In the case of group-subgroup subfactors, our conjecture can be stated in group theory terms as a relative version of Aschbacher–Guralnick conjecture, and we prove that this conjecture is true for solvable groups.
Do ASARM peptides play a role in nephrogenic systemic fibrosis

Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) is a devastating condition associated with gadolinium (Gd3+)-based contrast agents (GBCAs) in patients with kidney disease. The release of toxic Gd3+ from GBCAs ...
C 2 H and HC 3 N in Interstellar Clouds

A survey for the molecules C 2 H and HC 3 N in a variety of interstellar clouds has been completed. Both molecules are very widespread, in cold dark clouds as well as in hot clouds. C 2 H emission has been mapped in L1534. In cold clouds the fractional abundance X(C 2 H) is found to be 2-6×10 −9 . The ratio of abundances X(C 2 H)/X(HC 3 N) falls in the range 6-10, consistent with some gas-phase reaction schemes for these molecules.
Explaining State Territorial Consolidation in Post-Conflict: The Macarena Region of Colombia

After territory in a civil conflict has been cleared by state forces, how can permanent security be guaranteed and economic development be stimulated? This study examines the joint efforts by USAID and the Colombian government to "consolidate" gains in the conflictive FARC guerrilla stronghold of the Macarena region in Colombia through development spending and institutional strengthening beginning in the mid-2000s. I test hypotheses about how various types of development projects, spending, and military activities affect outcomes related to citizen security and economic development with statistical tests at the village-level. Identification comes from difference-in-difference analysis of perception survey responses of individuals from different communities that were eligible recipients for development programming. The results support an “institutional salience” theory of development programs in post-conflict settings where projects most closely related to residents’ daily livelihoods are the most highly valued and contribute to perceptions of state legitimacy and lasting security. The findings hold important policy implications for other regions in Colombia and other countries with post-conflict programs seeking to cement peace.
Is the Prediction of Adolescent Outcomes From Early Child Care Moderated by Later Maternal Sensitivity? Results From the NICHD Study of Early Child Care and Youth Development

Longitudinal data are used to examine whether effects of early child care are amplified and/or attenuated by later parenting. Analyses tested these interactions using parenting as both a categorical and continuous variable to balance power and flexibility in testing moderation. The most consistent finding was that maternal sensitivity during adolescence accentuated the association between child care quality and adolescent academic-cognitive skills at age 15 years when maternal sensitivity during adolescence was high. This interaction was obtained in analyses with maternal sensitivity as both a categorical and continuous variable. Relations between early child care hours and adolescent behavioral outcomes also were moderated by maternal sensitivity, with longer child care hours predicting more impulsivity and externalizing at age 15 when maternal sensitivity during middle childhood, scored as a categorical variable, was low to moderate and when maternal sensitivity during adolescence, scored as a continuous variable, was lower. These findings suggest that some child care effects are moderated by subsequent parenting and that this moderation may take both linear and nonlinear forms.
Differences in Simultaneous Cylic Adenosine Monophosphate Concentrations of Various Rat Tissues after Heroin Administration

Opiate administration has profound effects on neurotransmitter metabolism and neuroendocrine functions. Since cAMP is an intracellular metabolite common to the actions of many of the involved compounds stimulating distinct and specific membrane receptors, cAMP concentrations representative of in vivo conditions in heroin-treated and control animals were determined. Rats were sacrificed by immersion in liquid nitrogen 30 min after heroin injection. Tissue samples, dissected without thawing, were assayed by radioimmunoassay to determine cAMP/mg of protein. Comparisons between treated animals and sham-injected controls revealed significant cAMP concentration increases in hypothalamus, cerebral cortex, cerebellum, adrenal medulla, adrenal cortex, and liver (P less than 0.0005). Cyclic AMP concentrations in heart, skeletal muscle, kidney, and fat were not significantly different from controls. The increased tissue cAMP concentrations associated with the altered physiology of heroin administration apparently represent a pattern of integrated responses to the combination of opiate receptor binding and effects on neurotransmitter metabolism and circulating hormones.
Research Progress on the Reaction Mechanism of Coal Gasification

The research status of reaction mechanism of coal gasification was summarized and the redox reaction mechanism was elaborated.The structure of active oxidation state intermediates was discussed in detail through experimental research.By means of quantum chemistry theory research,the process of gasification was pointed out,as a supplemental instruction for the experimental research.Finally,the further research work on coal gasification mechanism needing to be done was put forward.
Updating a B. anthracis Risk Model with Field Data from a Bioterrorism Incident.

In this study, a Bayesian framework was applied to update a model of pathogen fate and transport in the indoor environment. Distributions for model parameters (e.g., release quantity of B. anthracis spores, risk of illness, spore setting velocity, resuspension rate, sample recovery efficiency, etc.) were updated by comparing model predictions with measurements of B. anthracis spores made after one of the 2001 anthrax letter attacks. The updating process, which was implemented by using Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) methods, significantly reduced the uncertainties of inputs with uniformed prior estimates: total quantity of spores released, the amount of spores exiting the room, and risk to occupants. In contrast, uncertainties were not greatly reduced for inputs for which informed prior data were available: deposition rates, resuspension rates, and sample recovery efficiencies. This suggests that prior estimates of these quantities that were obtained from a review of the technical literature are consisten...
Narrating Memory: Rayda Jacobs, Yvette Christiansë and André Brink and the New Slave Narrative

ABSTRACTThe reiterations of narratives of enslavement may be, to invoke Jacque Derrida's term, the hauntological, in which “the thing that represents the demise of something also signals its continuation in a different form.” Ian Baucom argues that repetition and accumulation, not progress, defines a modern philosophy of history. Similarly, Arlene Keizer sees contemporary black subjectivity formed through the post-memonics of slavery. Toni Morrison's concept of rememory physicalizes remembering and cultural memory, necessitating an interrogation of the institution and materiality of slavery. While much of the attention on neo-slave narratives have focused on texts from the United States, the reconstructed slave narratives South African texts of Andre Brink, Yvette Christianse, and Rayda Jacobs suggest that we investigate how we construct our memories and to what political and aesthetic purposes they are put. More important, perhaps, than the localness of a neo-slave narrative is that it reminds us, of the...
Detecting highly cyclic structure with complex eigenpairs.

Many large, real-world complex networks have rich community structure that a network scientist seeks to understand. These communities may overlap or have intricate internal structure. Extracting communities with particular topological structure, even when they overlap with other communities, is a powerful capability that would provide novel avenues of focusing in on structure of interest. In this work we consider extracting highly-cyclic regions of directed graphs (digraphs). We demonstrate that embeddings derived from complex-valued eigenvectors associated with stochastic propagator eigenvalues near roots of unity are well-suited for this purpose. We prove several fundamental theoretic results demonstrating the connection between these eigenpairs and the presence of highly-cyclic structure and we demonstrate the use of these vectors on a few real-world examples.
Introduction to Planetary Photometry

Introducing planetary photometry as a quantitative remote sensing tool, this handbook demonstrates how reflected light can be measured and used to investigate the physical properties of bodies in our Solar System. The author explains how data gathered from telescopes and spacecraft are processed and used to infer properties such as the size, shape, albedo, and composition of celestial objects including planets, moons, asteroids, and comets. Beginning with an overview of the history and background theory of photometry, later chapters delve into the physical principles behind commonly used photometric models and the mechanics of observation, data reduction, and analysis. Real-world examples, problems, and case studies are included, all at an introductory level suitable for new graduate students, planetary scientists, amateur astronomers and researchers looking for an overview of this field.
Polytope Updating in Quasi-Min-Max MPC Algorithms

Abstract Quasi-min-max is an MPC algorithm introduced in Lu and Arkun (1999) and Lu and Arkun (2000) for polytopic linear parameter varying (LPV) systems. The first stage cost is separated from the infinite horizon objective function, and the worst case value of the objective function is minimized assuming that the future models in the prediction horizon belong to a prescribed polytope. The algorithm guarantees closed-loop stability when it is implemented in a receding horizon fashion. However, when the number of local models that form the polytope is large or the local models are too different, the performance of the algorithm deteriorates. In this paper, we improve the algorithm by updating the polytope. Simulations show that the performance and feasibility properties of the algorithm are improved and computational burden is decreased by properly updating the polytope used in quasi-min-max MPC.
Comparing performance on baseline computerized neurocognitive and balance

Objective To compare head impact severity between high and low performers on baseline neurocognitive and balance assessments in collegiate American football athletes. Design Prospective cohort. Setting On-field/Concussion Research Laboratory. Participants Thirty collegiate American football players (height: 187.0 cm, 95% CI: 184.6, 189.4; mass: 105.4 kg, 95% CI: 99.3, 111.6; age: 21.0 years, 95% CI: 20.5, 21.5). Interventions Participants completed a baseline neurocognitive assessment (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Test) and balance exam (Sensory Organization Test). Participants wore accelerometers (Head Impact Telemetry System) to capture measures of severity for 13,537 head impacts. Outcome measures Groups were divided into higher and lower performance groups using a median split for independent variables including composite neurocognitive (verbal memory, visual memory, processing speed, reaction time and impulse control) and balance performance. Random intercepts general linear models were used to compare linear acceleration (g), rotational acceleration (rad/s2), and Head Impact Technology severity profile (HITsp-unitless) between higher and lower performing groups (α=0.05). Position group was included in all models. Main results Athletes with slower reaction time had a trend towards higher linear acceleration (higher 26.4, 95% CI: 24.6, 28.3; lower 24.6, 95% CI: 23.7, 25.7; p=0.080) and significantly higher rotational acceleration (higher 1020.2, 95% CI: 990.1, 1051.2; lower 946.6, 95% CI: 910.0, 984.8; p=0.003). Conclusions Athletes with slower reaction time may be slower to prepare for collisions, resulting in higher magnitude head impacts. Clinicians should recognize athletes with slower reaction time on baseline neurocognitive assessments and understand the on-field implications. Research is needed to further identify a reaction time threshold between high and low performers, and risk of sustaining higher magnitude head impacts. Competing interests None.
Perceived Communication Needs of Developmentally Delayed Nonspeaking Children

Communication needs of physically disabled nonspeaking public school students were assessed using a job analysis methodology. Based on 128 interviews with teachers, parents, therapists, and others who knew the students quite well, a questionnaire was developed on which a variety of potential messages and message topics were rated in terms of communication requirements. Responses to the questionnaires were factor analyzed, yielding 4 factors relating to interpersonal/academic content, recreational activities/special events, basic needs, and apperceptive content. The frequency with which messages were suggested during the interview phase was also reported. Implications for developing vocabularies for augmentative communication systems were discussed.
Resolving the Ligand-Binding Specificity in c-MYC G-Quadruplex DNA: Absolute Binding Free Energy Calculations and SPR Experiment

We report the absolute binding free energy calculation and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) experiment for ligand binding with the c-MYC G-quadruplex DNA. The unimolecular parallel DNA G-quadruplex formed in nuclease hypersensitivity element III1 of the c-MYC gene promoter regulates the c-MYC transcription and is recognized as an emerging drug target for cancer therapy. Quindoline derivatives have been shown to stabilize the G-quadruplex and inhibit the c-MYC expression in cancer cells. NMR revealed two binding sites located at the 5′ and 3′ termini of the G-quadruplex. Questions about which site is more favored and the basis for the ligand-induced binding site formation remain unresolved. Here, we employ two absolute binding free energy methods, the double decoupling and the potential of mean force methods, to dissect the ligand-binding specificity in the c-MYC G-quadruplex. The calculated absolute binding free energies are in general agreement with the SPR result and suggest that quindoline has a slight ...
The product, the mind and the heart of crowdfunding: the effect of signals on technology projects

Signalling theory is useful for describing behaviour when two individuals or organisations have access to different information. The current research intends to explain how technology entrepreneurs can successfully utilise this theory to secure crowdfunding. Specifically, we predict that the innovativeness of a project, the skills, abilities, honesty and kindness of individual workers, can positively affect crowdfunding achievement. We also hypothesise and test that positive emotional characteristics in the workplace can strengthen the relationship between products usefulness and funding success. Data was collected from Kickstarter platform to test our theory. Our analyses show that specific individual skill (entrepreneurs' industry experience) negatively influences their funding success, but entrepreneur's personal characteristics (previous funding experience and frequent updates) are positively related to crowdfunding achievement. In addition, the level of education positively influences the relationship between innovation and funding success. Social factors dominate crowdfunding more than economic soundness. Crowdfunding can be used to fund innovative and traditional projects.
Assessing diffusion kurtosis tensor estimation methods using a digital brain phantom derived from human connectome project data.

Abstract Purpose Diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI) has gained popularity in recent years as an advanced diffusion-weighted MRI technique. This work aims to quantitatively compare the performance and accuracy of four DKI processing algorithms. For this purpose, a digital DKI brain phantom is developed. Methods Data from the Human Connectome Project database were used to generate a DKI digital phantom. In a Monte Carlo Rician noise simulation, four DKI processing algorithms were compared based on their mean squared error, squared bias, and variance. Results Algorithm performance was region-dependent and differed for each diffusion metric and noise level. Crossover between variance and squared bias error occurred between signal-to-noise ratios of 30 and 40. Conclusion Through the framework presented here, DKI algorithms can be quantitatively compared via a ground truth data set. Error maps are critical as algorithm performance varies spatially. Bias-plus-variance decomposition provides a more complete picture than MSE alone. In combination with refinements in acquisition in future studies, the accuracy and efficiency of DKI will continue to improve promoting clinical adoption.
22 – Behavioral Neuropsychology

Publisher Summary The challenge to the behavioral neuropsychologist is to combine the data from two types of assessments: behavioral observation and standardized testing. The process would be to use the information from one form of assessment to inform or interpret the data from the other form of assessment. If behavioral observation indicates that the patient spoke out loud, talking himself through the test procedure, scores on a test of problem solving may be interpreted as optimal performance when verbalization replaces or strengthens self-monitoring, usually thought to be subserved by the frontal lobes. A score near the intact range may be interpreted as reflecting impaired control of problem solving, because the verbal mediation was required, or as reflecting impaired working memory and concentration, because the verbal direction was required.
A Kantian Conception of Free Speech

In this paper I provide an interpretation of Kant’s conception of free speech. Free speech is understood as the kind of speech that is constitutive of interaction respectful of everybody’s right to freedom, and it requires what we with John Rawls may call ‘public reason.’ Public reason so understood refers to how the public authority must reason in order to properly specify the political relation between citizens. My main aim is to give us some reasons for taking a renewed interest in Kant’s conception of free speech, including his account of public reason. Kant’s position provides resources for dealing with many of the legal and political problems we currently struggle to analyze under this heading, such as the proper distinction between the sphere of justice and the sphere of ethics, hate speech, freedom of speech, defamation, and the public guarantee of reliable media and universal education.
Canine cardiopulmonary responses to one-lung ventilation during thoracoscopic diaphragmatic incision repair and two-lung ventilation during gasless laparoscopic diaphragmatic incision repair

Two minimally invasive surgical techniques for repair of diaphragmatic incisions and the cardiopulmonary responses during the surgical procedures were investigated in dogs. 1. The cardiopulmonary effects of one-lung ventilation (OLV) during thoracoscopic diaphragmatic incision repair (TDIR) and two-lung ventilation (TLV) for gasless laparoscopic diaphragmatic incision repair (GLDIR) in the dog were determined. The changes in cardiopulmonary function were less in the GLDIR with TLV group, although not statistically different from the TDIR with OLV. In addition, during OLV and thoracoscopy, right lung collapse with left lung ventilation may predispose to an increased risk of hypoxemia when compared to left lung collapse with right lung ventilation. 2.Two video-assisted surgical techniques are described for the repair of diaphragmatic incisions: a) gasless laparoscopy with an abdominal lifting device and b) thoracoscopy with one-lung ventilation. In this study, thoracoscopic approaches with OLV were feasible to repair the diaphragmatic incisions located in the ventral part of the right pars costalis and sternalis or left pars costalis and sternalis. Incisions that extended across the midline were more difficult to repair with this approach. The gasless laparoscopic approach was feasible to suture incisions located in the pars sternalis and ventral part of the right or left pars costalis. Incisions that extended across the midline were repairable with this approach. The two surgical approaches described have potential clinical application that would provide
Distress and Divorce: Establishing Cutoff Scores for the Marital Status Inventory

This study was designed to identify Marital Status Inventory (MSI) scores that could be used as cutoff points for degrees of marital distress. Cutoff scores are useful in clinical work as a way to estimate degrees of marital distress, differentiate couples for treatments, and to provide uniformity across studies. Subjects consisted of 474 couples requesting marital therapy at a university-based clinic. Based on their individual Marital Adjustment Test (MAT) scores, participants were placed in severely distressed, moderately distressed, and non-distressed groups. Using a discriminant analysis, MSI scores of 4 for husbands and 5 for wives were found to be useful cutoff points for severe distress.
Gait variability following abrupt removal of external stabilization decreases with practice in incomplete spinal cord injury but increases in non-impaired individuals

Individuals with incomplete spinal cord injury (iSCI) exhibit considerable lateral center of mass (COM) movement variability during gait transitions from a stabilizing to unassisted environment, while non-impaired individuals do not. To understand how iSCI influences gait adaption, we examined persons with and without iSCI performing repeated locomotor transitions. We hypothesized that, with practice, individuals with iSCI would prioritize COM control performance during the transition as exhibited by a reduction in kinematic variability. In, contrast, we hypothesized that non-impaired individuals would prioritize control effort by decreasing muscular activity. Thirteen participants with iSCI and 12 non-impaired participants performed five treadmill-walking trials. During some trials, a cable-robot applied stabilizing lateral forces to the pelvis proportional in magnitude and opposite in direction to real-time lateral COM velocity. Each trial consisted of 300 continuous steps with or without a transition. During the first and last trials, no forces were applied and no transitions occurred (Null trials). During trials 2–4 (transition trials), the first 200 steps occurred in the stabilizing force field, forces were then abruptly removed, and 100 more unassisted steps were performed. We analyzed COM and step width variability, and hip abductor muscle activity during transitions (force removal until gait returned to steady state). Participants with iSCI displayed large COM movement variability during the first transition but reduced variability with practice. During the first transition, lateral COM speed, lateral COM excursion, and step width were all more variable than during the first Null trial (p 0.05). In contrast, non-impaired participants’ movement variability during the first transition was not different from Null trials (p > 0.05). With practice, movement variability increased: lateral COM excursion was more variable during Transitions 2 and 3 versus the first Null trial (p < 0.05). Non-impaired participants decreased hip abductor activity from Transition 1 to 3 (p < 0.05). Individuals with iSCI demonstrated rapid motor savings. By the third transition, individuals with iSCI reduced locomotor variability to baseline levels. In contrast, non-impaired participants prioritized control effort over control performance. With practice transitioning, non-impaired participants increased locomotor variability and decreased muscular effort.