cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of branched and cycloalkyl functionalities on CO2 separation performance of poly(IL) membranes

Abstract Over the past several years, polymerizable ionic liquids (poly(ILs)) have been studied as potential materials for use in gas separation membranes, typically with a focus on CO 2 removal. ILs present a versatile platform for membrane design as monomer synthetic strategies provide multiple dimensions of control over cation/anion chemical structures. The molecular composition of IL monomers can be directly correlated to measurable structure–property–performance relationships, including gas transport, in the resultant poly(IL) materials. A unique feature of the “bottom-up” design approach for poly(ILs) is that it readily allows for the introduction of unique combinations of functional groups not typically found in, or easily introduced to, conventional polymer materials. The flexibility afforded in monomer design also allows for a straightforward means of comparing performances of structural isomers (e.g. n -propyl vs. i -propyl). However, such comparisons are rarely reported for ILs, let alone poly(IL) materials. Here, we have synthesized several styrene-based IL monomers containing branched- and cycloalkyl groups appended to the imidazolium ring. These monomers were used to form poly(IL) membranes which were analyzed in terms of their permeabilities toward CO 2 , N 2 and CH 4 as well as their selectivities for CO 2 relative to the other species. Relative to their n -alkyl counterparts, poly(ILs) with branched and cyclic functionalities exhibited ∼20% larger CO 2 /N 2 and CO 2 /CH 4 selectivities, yet gas permeabilities dropped by more than 50%. It is proposed that the improvements in selectivity associated with branched and cyclic functionalities is due to smaller fractional free volumes (FFV) compared to analogous n -alkyl chains, which is supported by computational studies using COSMOTherm.
Determination of tellurium(IV) in perchloric acid by stripping voltammetry with collection

Abstract The deposition and stripping of teUurium(IV) at a rotating gold ring—gold disk electrode is described. Tellurium(IV) is reduced to the metal by two cathodic procedures, and three activity states of electrodeposited tellurium are observed. For sub-monolayer depositions, a single stripping peak is observed. Determination of telIurium(IV) by stripping voltametry and by Stripping voltammetry with collection is described. The detection limits are 1 X 10-5 M and 5 X 10-11 M, respectively.
Microfluidic-based biosensors toward point-of-care detection of nucleic acids and proteins

This article reviews state-of-the-art microfluidic biosensors of nucleic acids and proteins for point-of-care (POC) diagnostics. Microfluidics is capable of analyzing small sample volumes (10−9–10−18 l) and minimizing costly reagent consumption as well as automating sample preparation and reducing processing time. The merger of microfluidics and advanced biosensor technologies offers new promises for POC diagnostics, including high-throughput analysis, portability and disposability. However, this merger also imposes technological challenges on biosensors, such as high sensitivity and selectivity requirements with sample volumes orders of magnitude smaller than those of conventional practices, false response errors due to non-specific adsorption, and integrability with other necessary modules. There have been many prior review articles on microfluidic-based biosensors, and this review focuses on the recent progress in last 5 years. Herein, we review general technologies of DNA and protein biosensors. Then, recent advances on the coupling of the biosensors to microfluidics are highlighted. Finally, we discuss the key challenges and potential solutions for transforming microfluidic biosensors into POC diagnostic applications.
Family of skewed distributions associated with the gene expression and proteome evolution

We study statistical distributions appearing in various genome-related phenomena, including the distribution of the transcript copy number in the transcriptome of eukaryotic cells and the distribution of the number of proteins containing a protein domain in proteomes of species. We found that the empirical distributions for all studied data sets are well fitted by a family of Pareto-like distribution functions whose shape depends in a predictable manner on the sample size. Such distributions are generated as limiting distributions in a Markov random process where the birth and death intensities are linear functions of events. We also propose a novel model of progressive evolution of a population in terms of the increase of the numbers of distinct components and their links in the system and we study evolution of the probability distribution of these links. Estimating two unknown parameters of this model allows us to describe the progressive evolution of the number of distinct protein domain sets and the number of proteins containing a given protein domain in the proteomes of 70 fully sequenced genome organisms. This model also predicts trends in proteome complexity evolution.
Simulation of a hybrid model for image denoising

We propose a new model for image denoising which is a hybrid of the total variation model and the Laplacian mean-curvature model. An efficient numerical procedure to compute the hybrid model is also presented. The hybrid model and its computational procedure introduce a number of parameters. As a preliminary step to the synthesis of a method for selecting optimal parameters, the hybrid model was simulated on a number of known images with synthetically added noise. The parallel simulation code was easily composed from existing serial code and a dynamic load balancing tool. The estimated parallel efficiency of the simulation is in excess of 96% on 32 processors of a general-purpose Linux cluster.
What is the effect of rivaroxaban on routine coagulation tests

A 78-year-old female presents to the emergency department with a traumatic hip fracture. Her past medical history is significant for atrial fibrillation for which she receives rivaroxaban 20 mg daily. Her dose was last taken 12 hours ago. Routine bloodwork conducted in the emergency department shows prothrombin time, international normalized ratio, and activated partial thromboplastin time within the normal range, and estimated glomerular filtration rate of 50 mL/min/1.73 m(2) (normal is >90 mL/min/1.73 m(2)) You are asked by the surgical team to confirm that it is safe to proceed with surgery at this time using neuraxial anesthesia.
COMBINED PENILE PLICATION SURGERY AND INSERTION OF PENILE PROSTHESIS FOR SEVERE PENILE CURVATURE AND ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION

Purpose: For persistent penile curvature after corporeal dilation and prosthesis placement other maneuvers, such as plaque incision with or without grafting, or penile modeling, must be used to complete penile straightening. However, each of these techniques is associated with increased morbidity, which includes higher rates of infection and urethral injury. We describe a new technique for correcting severe penile curvature and erectile dysfunction using combined penile plication and placement of a 3 piece inflatable penile prosthesis. Materials and Methods: Between February 2000 and June 2003, 5 patients with erectile dysfunction and severe curvature for which other treatment modalities had failed were treated with combined inflatable penile prosthesis and additional plication to correct the severe malformation. Detailed medical and sexual history was obtained as well as preoperative duplex ultrasound prior to surgery. Results: The age range of our patient population was 22 to 55 years. In each case penile prosthesis placement was insufficient to correct the malformation and the addition of multiple plication sutures was required. The malformation in all patients was corrected with this technique. To date no patients have reported any complications with followup (range 3 to 36 months). Conclusions: In cases of severe penile deformity and curvature with erectile dysfunction the combination of penile plication and inflatable penile prosthesis placement is a method of repair that is well tolerated.
Newly Reported Hypertension After Military Combat Deployment. Research Implications From a Biopsychosocial Perspective

Military service personnel have been reported to experience increased mental and physical problems after combat deployment.1,2 Likewise, attrition from military service and increased use of mental health services have been observed.1,2 Recent large prospective epidemiological studies have shown a covariation of combat exposure with self-reported posttraumatic stress disorder and depressive symptoms, both of which appear most pronounced for Reserve/National Guard personnel.1,2 The study by Milliken et al1 showed increased concerns about alcohol consumption and interpersonal conflict when an initial survey was compared with a follow-up survey some 3 to 6 months later. Being the first large prospective-based study of reported hypertension, the study by Granado et al,3 with a follow-up of ≈3 years, makes a significant contribution to the study of the sequelae of combat experience. In this commentary, strengths and limitations of the study by Granado et al3 are first discussed, highlighting implications for the design of future longitudinal work. Because alcohol consumption, stress reactivity, and interpersonal conflict have been implicated in the development of stress-related hypertension,4 the results of the Granado et al3 and the Milliken et al1 studies are combined with other empirical work to suggest potential links among stress reactivity, alcohol consumption as a stress-dampening mechanism, and stress-related hypertension development. Finally, this literature is used to suggest additional avenues …
Concurrent Wi-Fi for mobile users: analysis and measurements

We present the first in-depth analysis of the performance of attempting concurrent AP connections from highly mobile clients. Previous solutions for concurrent Wi-Fi are limited to stationary wireless clients and do not take into account a myriad of mobile factors. Through an analytical model, optimization framework, and numerous outdoor experiments, we show that connection duration, AP response times, channel scheduling, available and offered bandwidth, node speed, and dhcp joins all affect performance. Building on these results, we design, implement, and evaluate a system, Spider, that establishes and maintains concurrent connections to 802.11 APs in a mobile environment. The system uses multi-AP selection, channel-based scheduling, and opportunistic scanning to maximize throughput while mitigating the overhead of association and dhcp. While Spider can manage multiple channels, we empirically demonstrate that it achieves maximum throughput when using multiple APs on a single channel. Our evaluation shows that Spider provides a 400% improvement in throughput and 54% improvement in connectivity over stock Wi-Fi implementations.
DNA-triggered innate immune responses are propagated by gap junction communication

Cells respond to infection by sensing pathogens and communicating danger signals to noninfected neighbors; however, little is known about this complex spatiotemporal process. Here we show that activation of the innate immune system by double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) triggers intercellular communication through a gap junction-dependent signaling pathway, recruiting colonies of cells to collectively secrete antiviral and inflammatory cytokines for the propagation of danger signals across the tissue at large. By using live-cell imaging of a stable IRF3-sensitive GFP reporter, we demonstrate that dsDNA sensing leads to multicellular colonies of IRF3-activated cells that express the majority of secreted cytokines, including IFNβ and TNFα. Inhibiting gap junctions decreases dsDNA-induced IRF3 activation, cytokine production, and the resulting tissue-wide antiviral state, indicating that this immune response propagation pathway lies upstream of the paracrine action of secreted cytokines and may represent a host-derived mechanism for evading viral antiinterferon strategies.
POTENTIAL FOR MICROBIAL CONTAMINATION OF SPINACH THROUGH FEEDYARD AIR/DUST GROWING IN CLOSE PROXIMITY TO CATTLE FEEDYARD OPERATIONS

To determine if spinach grown near cattle feedyards can become contaminated with microorganisms, fresh spinach bundles were set upright in polyvinyl chloride pipes within a feedyard. Bundles were located at 0, 20 and 50 yards from the cattle loadout area (dust generation). Control samples were in a Rubbermaid box (Rubbermaid, Huntersville, NC) to prevent environmental contamination. All samples were tested for generic Escherichia coli, E. coli O157 and Salmonella after 6, 12 and 24 h of feedyard exposure. Generic E. coli levels in exposed spinach placed at 0 yards increased by 2.5, 2.6 and 2.7 logs after 6, 12 and 24 h, respectively. These increases were significant when compared with control samples (P = 0.0456). At 20 and 50 yards, there was an increase in generic E. coli, with significantly less E. coli on spinach placed at farther distances. After 24 h, 50-yard samples contained 12.96 logs less Salmonella than 0-yard samples. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS The results obtained from this research can serve as evidence for the spinach and leafy green industries that growing within the vicinity of cattle increases the likelihood of microbial contamination onto the product. Furthermore, this study serves as a foundation for future studies to identify exactly how close spinach and leafy green fields can be located to cattle feedyards without posing a risk for contamination via dust, soil and air. Such information is necessary in order to reduce the amount of product recalls, outbreaks and foodborne illnesses associated with the consumption of spinach and other leafy green vegetables.
Degradation of N/sub 2/O-annealed MOSFET characteristics in response to dynamic oxide stressing

The performance of n-MOSFETs with furnace N/sub 2/O-annealed gate oxides under dynamic Fowler-Nordheim bipolar stress was studied and compared with that of conventional oxide (OX). Time-dependent dielectric breakdown at high frequency was shown to be improved for the N/sub 2/O-annealed devices compared with that for devices with OX. In addition, a smaller V/sub t/ shift after stress was found for nitrided samples. The shift decreased with increasing stressing frequency and annealing temperature. Measurements of both G/sub m/ and D/sub it/ revealed a peak frequency at which the degradation was the worst. A hole trapping/migration model has been proposed to explain this. >
Epidemiology of bedtime, arising time, and time in bed: analysis of age, gender, and ethnicity.

This study investigated the epidemiology of bedtime (BT), arising time (AT), and time in bed (TIB) as a function of age, gender, and ethnicity. Sleep diary data were analyzed for 746 randomly selected community participants. This sample was comprised of 364 men (48.8%) and 382 women (51.2%), 532 Caucasians (71.3%) and 214 African Americans (28.7%), and participant ages ranged from 20 to 98 years. Regression analyses showed a main effect of age on subjective BT, AT, and TIB. The addition of gender and ethnicity to the regression model added significant variance for TIB, but not BT or AT. In general, BT declined across the lifespan, but AT showed a quadratic pattern that peaked in young adulthood, was stable in the middle years, and peaked again in the later years. This age-related combination of BT and AT resulted in greater TIB for older adults than other age groups. Women spent significantly greater TIB than men, and African Americans spent significantly more TIB than Caucasians. These results suggest th...
Alcohol use and negative consequences among active duty military personnel

Abstract Aims An examination of alcohol use patterns in the active duty military to determine the relations of drinking levels and self-reported negative outcomes. Design A population-based cross-sectional study design using two-stage complex sampling methodology. Setting Paper and pencil surveys were administered anonymously in groups at 64 U.S. military installations worldwide. Participants Randomly selected active duty members (28,546) at major military installations representing the total active force, with the exception of recruits, cadets, and incarcerated personnel. Measures Personnel were classified into five drinking levels ranging from abstainer to heavy drinker based on quantity and frequency of alcohol intake. Negative outcomes were measured as self-reported serious consequences of alcohol use and alcohol-related productivity loss. Risk for other alcohol related problems was assessed by the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT). Findings Alcohol negative outcomes showed a curvilinear dose–response relationship with drinking levels. Higher levels of drinking were associated with higher rates of alcohol problems, but problem rates were notably higher for heavy drinkers. Heavy alcohol users showed nearly three times the rate of self-reported serious consequences and over twice the rate of self-reported productivity loss than moderate/heavy drinkers. Heavy drinkers also had the highest risk for alcohol problems on the AUDIT. One fifth of military personnel were heavy drinkers and were most likely aged 18 to 35. Conclusions Prevention and clinical interventions should include a major focus on heavy drinkers. Commanders and peers should be trained in recognizing signs of heavy alcohol use and in approaching heavy alcohol users in a way that will foster positive attitudes as opposed to defensiveness and stigma.
An IF stage design for an ASK-based wireless telemetry system

This paper presents a design for an ASK-based IF-stage. This IF-stage was designed as part of a single-chip ISM band short range wireless telemetry system. The design was fabricated in 0.5 /spl mu/m CMOS process. Two main components of the IF-block are discussed in this paper. Measurement and simulation results are provided for the AGC circuit and the ASK detector. The measured dynamic range for the AGC is 40 dB at a 10 MHz IF frequency. The ASK detector was designed to operate at 1 Mb/s for the same IF frequency. A fully differential signal path is maintained throughout the design to reduce the impact of substrate and supply fluctuations. Measurement and simulation results are presented to verify the design.
Integrated model-based and data-driven fault detection and diagnosis approach for an automotive electric power steering system

Integrity of electric power steering system is vital to vehicle handling and driving performance. Advances in electric power steering (EPS) system have increased complexity in detecting and isolating faults. In this paper, we propose a hybrid model-based and data-driven approach to fault detection and diagnosis (FDD) in an EPS system. We develop a physics-based model of an EPS system, conduct fault injection experiments to derive fault-sensor measurement dependencies, and investigate various FDD schemes to detect and isolate the faults. Finally, we use an SVM regression technique to estimate the severity of faults.
The hypocretins and sleep

The hypocretins (also called the orexins) are two neuropeptides derived from the same precursor whose expression is restricted to a few thousand neurons of the lateral hypothalamus. Two G-protein coupled receptors for the hypocretins have been identified, and these show different distributions within the central nervous system and differential affinities for the two hypocretins. Hypocretin fibers project throughout the brain, including several areas implicated in regulation of the sleep/wakefulness cycle. Central administration of synthetic hypocretin-1 affects blood pressure, hormone secretion and locomotor activity, and increases wakefulness while suppressing rapid eye movement sleep. Most human patients with narcolepsy have greatly reduced levels of hypocretin peptides in their cerebral spinal fluid and no or barely detectable hypocretin-containing neurons in their hypothalamus. Multiple lines of evidence suggest that the hypocretinergic system integrates homeostatic, metabolic and limbic information and provides a coherent output that results in stability of the states of vigilance.
Conservative management of cholelithiasis and its complications in pregnancy is associated with recurrent symptoms and more emergency department visits.

Background Pancreaticobiliary complications of gallstones are common in pregnancy and can result in serious sequelae. Previous studies have shown conflicting results regarding different approaches of treatment. Objective To compare the outcomes of conservative treatment versus operative and endoscopic interventions in the management of complications related to gallstones during pregnancy. Design Retrospective chart review. Setting Tertiary-care referral facility. Patients A total of 112 patients who had complications related to gallstones during pregnancy. Intervention Patients were classified into 3 groups: conservative treatment, laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC), and ERCP. Main Outcome Measurements We collected demographic data and information regarding treatment complications and pregnancy outcomes. Results A total of 112 pregnant patients met the inclusion criteria, with a mean age of 25 years. Main clinical presentations were biliary colic (n = 56), biliary pancreatitis (n = 27), acute cholecystitis (n = 17), and choledocholithiasis (n = 12). A total of 68 patients underwent conservative treatment, 13 patients underwent ERCP, 27 patients had LC, and 4 patients received both ERCP and LC. Recurrent biliary symptoms were significantly more common in patients who received conservative treatment ( P = .0005). The number of emergency department visits was significantly higher in the conservative treatment group compared with the active intervention group ( P = .0006). The number of hospitalizations also was higher in the conservative treatment group ( P = .03). Fetal birth weight was similar in both groups ( P = .1). Patients treated conservatively were more likely to undergo cesarean section operations for childbirth ( P = .04). Limitations Single-center, retrospective study. Conclusion Conservative treatment of cholelithiasis and its complications during pregnancy is associated with recurrent biliary symptoms and frequent emergency department visits. ERCP and LC are safe alternative approaches during pregnancy.
Feature-based epileptic seizure detection and prediction from ECoG recordings

This paper discusses the observation and interpretation of chirp-like striation patterns in processed spectrograms of single channel electrocorticograms associated with epileptic patients. A pulse amplitude modulation model is presented as a possible mechanism for the appearance of the chirp-like patterns. >
The Vibrational Spectrum and Structure of Symmetric Tetrabromoethane and Its Deuterate Analogs

Raman and infrared spectral studies have indicated the existence of rotational isomerism for substituted ethanes. Tetrabromoethane (CBr2H-CBr2H) is considered to exist in the trans and gauche forms. Therefore, the analysis of the Raman and infrared spectra entails the assignment of the vibrational frequencies to one or the other form. A partial assignment of this type has been made by Kagarise [1] for C2H2Br4. A more complete assignment could be made if knowledge of the vibrational frequencies of C2D2Br4 were available. In the present investigation the Raman and infrared spectra of C2H2Br4 and C2D2Br4 have been obtained. As the Raman and infrared spectra of C2H2Br4 obtained in this investigation are essentially the same as those reported by Kagarise [1], they will not be given here. As for C2D2Br4 the Raman displacements in cycles per centimeter, relative intensities, and depolarization factors (Δσ(1)ρ) are: 63(15)0.73; 112(13)0.55; 146(17)0.70; 175(19)0.68; 217(100)0.11; 434(7)0.77; 520(20)0.03; 603(6)0.35; 659(25)0.43; 793(2)0.82; 835(1)0.86; 873(3)0.72; 900(16)0.65 944(0)0.66?; 973(1)0.86; 1065(12)0.21; and 2228(12)0.34. The wave numbers in cycles per centimeter for the more prominent bands in the infrared spectrum of C2D2Br4 are: 430(s); 520(s); 569(m); 592(vs); 611(m); 656(vs); 833(vs); 900(vs); 976(vs); 1069(s); and 2232(vs). The Raman and infrared data for C2H2Br4 and C2D2Br4 have been compared to arrive at a complete assignment of the observed bands. As a check on the assignments, a normal coordinate treatment using the Wilson FG matrix technique has been carried out for the frans isomer of each molecule.
Critical Role for Death-Receptor Mediated Apoptotic Signaling in Viral Myocarditis

Abstract Background Apoptosis of cardiac myocytes plays a key role in the pathogenesis of many cardiac diseases, including viral myocarditis. The apoptotic signaling pathways that are activated during viral myocarditis and the role that these pathways play in disease pathogenesis have not been clearly delineated. Methods and Results We investigated the role of apoptotic signaling pathways after virus infection of primary cardiac myocytes. The death receptor–associated initiator caspase, caspase 8, and the effector caspase, caspase 3, were significantly activated after infection of primary cardiac myocytes with myocarditic, but not non-myocarditic, reovirus strains. Furthermore, reovirus-induced cardiac myocyte apoptosis was significantly inhibited by soluble death receptors. In contrast, the mitochondrial membrane potential remained unaltered and caspase 9, the initiator caspase associated with mitochondrial apoptotic signaling, was only weakly activated in cardiac myocytes after infection with myocarditic reovirus strains. Inhibition of mitochondrial apoptotic signaling had no effect on reovirus-induced cardiac myocyte apoptosis. In accordance with our in vitro data, caspase 8, but not caspase 9, was significantly activated in the hearts of reovirus-infected mice. Conclusions Death receptor, but not mitochondrial, apoptotic signaling plays a key role in apoptosis after infection of cardiac myocytes with myocarditic reovirus strains.
Electronic states of PF2 and PF+2

Abstract The ground and excited electronic states of PF 2 and PF + 2 have been investigated using the complete active space self-consistent field (CASSCF) followed by multi-reference singles and doubles configuration interaction (MRSDCI) methods that include up to 1.2 million configurations. These states include X 2 B 1 , 4 A 2 , 2 A 1 (I), 2 A 1 (II), 2 A 2 , 2 B 2 (I), 2 B 2 (II), 4 B 1 , 2 B 1 (II) for PF 2 and 1 A 1 , 3 B 1 , 1 B 1 for PF + 2 . Both all-electron computations employing large basis sets and relativistic effective core potentials using valence basis sets were carried out. The spectroscopic properties were determined for the bound states. The dissociation energy of PFF is obtained using the full second-order configuration interaction (SOCI) and CASSCF/MRSDCI methods.
Cura: A Cost-Optimized Model for MapReduce in a Cloud

We propose a new MapReduce cloud service model, Cura, for data analytics in the cloud. We argue that performing MapReduce analytics in existing cloud service models - either using a generic compute cloud or a dedicated MapReduce cloud - is inadequate and inefficient for production workloads. Existing services require users to select a number of complex cluster and job parameters while simultaneously forcing the cloud provider to use those potentially sub-optimal configurations resulting in poor resource utilization and higher cost. In contrast Cura leverages MapReduce profiling to automatically create the best cluster configuration for the jobs so as to obtain a global resource optimization from the provider perspective. Secondly, to better serve modern MapReduce workloads which constitute a large proportion of interactive real-time jobs, Cura uses a unique instant VM allocation technique that reduces response times by up to 65%. Thirdly, our system introduces deadline-awareness which, by delaying execution of certain jobs, allows the cloud provider to optimize its global resource allocation and reduce costs further. Cura also benefits from a number of additional performance enhancements including cost-aware resource provisioning, VMaware scheduling and online virtual machine reconfiguration. Our experimental results using Facebook-like workload traces show that along with response time improvements, our techniques lead to more than 80% reduction in the compute infrastructure cost of the cloud data center.
Fault Diagnosis of Antenna Pointing Systems using Hybrid Neural Network and Signal Processing Models

We describe in this paper a novel application of neural networks to system health monitoring of a large antenna for deep space communications. The paper outlines our approach to building a monitoring system using hybrid signal processing and neural network techniques, including autoregressive modelling, pattern recognition, and Hidden Markov models. We discuss several problems which are somewhat generic in applications of this kind - in particular we address the problem of detecting classes which were not present in the training data. Experimental results indicate that the proposed system is sufficiently reliable for practical implementation.
Bridging the rationalist–constructivist divide: re-engineering the culture of the World Bank

In this article, we seek to explain reform patterns at the World Bank. Traditional realist and institutionalist theories say little about the process of change within international organizations (‘IOs’). Drawing upon the insights of relatively new rationalist and constructivist approaches, we develop and test a model of IO change that combines insights from rationalism and constructivism. Our explanation integrates the ‘top-down’ logic of a rationalist principal-agent model — targeting the redesign of organizational structures, hiring procedures and promotional standards, and the ‘bottom-up’ logic of sociological constructivism — focusing on the transformation of bureaucratic culture. We find that reform outcomes hinge upon the ability of change entrepreneurs to disrupt both the logics of consequence and appropriateness that shape the preferences and behaviour of bureaucratic actors. We evaluate our model by examining four distinct aspects of the World Bank's Strategic Compact (1997–2001), which included attempts to alter project management, organizational culture, and the mission of the institution itself.
The treatment of acute anxiety and postoperative gingival pain by hypnosis and covert conditioning: a case report.

Abstract This study describes the use of covert modeling, covert reinforcement, and autohypnosis to reduce preoperative apprehension and anxiety prior to dental surgery, autohypnosis to control postoperative bleeding of the gingiva, and hypnosis to reduce and refer postoperative pain. The role of independent and mediating variables was also noted.
Predicting the occurrence of nonindigenous species using environmental and remotely sensed data

Abstract To manage or control nonindigenous species (NIS), we need to know where they are located in the landscape. However, many natural areas are large, making it unfeasible to inventory the entire area and necessitating surveys to be performed on smaller areas. Provided appropriate survey methods are used, probability of occurrence predictions and maps can be generated for the species and area of interest. The probability maps can then be used to direct further sampling for new populations or patches and to select populations to monitor for the degree of invasiveness and effect of management. NIS occurrence (presence or absence) data were collected during 2001 to 2003 using transects stratified by proximity to rights-of-way in the northern range of Yellowstone National Park. In this study, we evaluate the use of environmental and remotely sensed (LANDSAT Enhanced Thematic Mapper +) data, separately and combined, for developing probability maps of three target NIS occurrence. Canada thistle, dalmation t...
Semiparametric theory and empirical processes in causal inference

In this paper we review important aspects of semiparametric theory and empirical processes that arise in causal inference problems. We begin with a brief introduction to the general problem of causal inference, and go on to discuss estimation and inference for causal effects under semiparametric models, which allow parts of the data-generating process to be unrestricted if they are not of particular interest (i.e., nuisance functions). These models are very useful in causal problems because the outcome process is often complex and difficult to model, and there may only be information available about the treatment process (at best). Semiparametric theory gives a framework for benchmarking efficiency and constructing estimators in such settings. In the second part of the paper we discuss empirical process theory, which provides powerful tools for understanding the asymptotic behavior of semiparametric estimators that depend on flexible nonparametric estimators of nuisance functions. These tools are crucial for incorporating machine learning and other modern methods into causal inference analyses. We conclude by examining related extensions and future directions for work in semiparametric causal inference.
Interplanetary Trajectories for Electrically-Propelled Space Vehicles

Interplanetary Trajectories for Electrically-Propelled Space Vehicles. Determination of the space-mission capabilities of electric-propulsion systems requires study of the trajectories followed by space vehicles during powered flight in gravitational fields. In the present paper, solutions to the equations of motion for such flights are discussed. Both constant- and variable-thrust acceleration are considered, and methods of matching prescribed end-point conditions are described. Particular attention is given to the problem of interplanetary transfer, for which the mass ratios needed with various thrust programs are compared.
Increased incidence of non-melanomatous skin cancer in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia, an 11-year case-control study

19554 Background: Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) is a disease of B lymphocytes that affects immune tolerance and surveillance. Patients with CLL have an increased risk of basal and squamous cel...
Use of narrow band imaging in a group endoscopy practice.

Background and study aim: Narrowband imaging (NBI) is an enhanced endoscopic optical technique which filters white light and accentuates imaging of the mucosal vasculature. Potential clinical applications of NBI include endoscopic inspection of Barrett’s esophagus and endoscopic diagnosis of colorectal polyps. The degree to which NBI use has been adopted into clinical practice is unknown. The study objective was to identify the rate of NBI use in patients undergoing elective esophagoduodenoscopy (EGD) and colonoscopy, and to identify procedural factors associated with NBI use. Methods: Elective endoscopic procedures were prospectively observed over a 2-week study period. NBI use during diagnostic EGD or colonoscopy was recorded in blinded fashion. Results: NBI use was observed in 6.6 % (21/318) of procedures, including 4.7 % (5/106) of EGDs and 7.5 % (16/212) of colonoscopies. There was no difference in rate of NBI use when comparing EGD with or without biopsy, or when comparing colonoscopy with or without biopsy. NBI use was significantly higher in colonoscopy with polypectomy compared with colonoscopy without polypectomy (13 % [10/77] vs. 4.4 % [6/135], P = 0.03). NBI use varied significantly among endoscopists. There was no association between patient type (outpatient vs. inpatient), procedure start time, sedation type, or trainee involvement and use/non-use of NBI. Procedural documentation of NBI use was limited. Conclusions NBI use was observed in 6.6 % of elective endoscopic procedures and was highest in colonoscopies with polypectomy. Rate of NBI use varied significantly among endoscopists. Additional studies are needed to assess the magnitude of impact of NBI on routine endoscopic practice.
The affective tutor

In this paper we present our initial work on an application, The Affective Tutor, envisioned to help instructors keep all students in a large lecture class engaged and actively learning material related to the course. We have found, by asking for feedback after every class, that in a large class of over 50 students, a significant number of students will feel the class went too slow and another group will feel the class went too fast. One of the most challenging aspects of teaching a large class is to keep the entire class engaged in the course material. The Affective Tutor helps instructors to determine in real-time how students feel about the pace of the class. The tool also helps instructors to pin-point confusing topics, and to tackle the problem of keeping students engaged by providing a monitored back-channel that allows the bored students to help the confused students get back on track and into an engaged mode.
Improvement of LEACH Protocol Based on NS-2

Aiming at the problem of limited energy of Wireless Sensor Networks(WSN),this paper proposes an approach of energy-saving improving for LEACH protocol in aspect of stability. Using a simulation software NS-2 simulation,this paper compares performances of the improved version of LEACH protocol with the original one and discussed the influence of the energy dissipation of sensing module on the protocol improvement. Simulation results show that the modified protocol improves 45.87% longer lifetime and 35.16% more data than the original one as well as the value of CV. But it is found that when the energy dissipation of sensing module is more than 60% of the total energy,the improvement of the protocol is invalid.
Towards spreadsheet integration using entity identification driven by a spatial-temporal model

Crucial to answering economic, social and political questions facing our society, data tends to be diverse and distributed through sites across the Internet. The creation of tools to integrate and analyze it is of paramount interest. Yet the automation of these processes continues to be a great challenge. Our work rests on the observation that a high number of public data sources for domains ranging from economic to demographic, although of complex structure, often share key similarities. One of these similarities is the presence of time and location, two core attribute types. Our proposed Data Integration through Object Modelling framework or DIOM tackles this problem of automating data integration from a variety of public websites by abstracting key features of multi-dimensional tables and interpreting them in the context of a spatial and temporal model. Our preliminary experimental results on real world data sets from heterogeneous public data sources show accuracy of over 93% in DIOM's entity identification.
Robotic perineal radical prostatectomy and pelvic lymph node dissection using a purpose-built single-port robotic platform.

Objectives To describe the features of the novel, purpose-built da Vinci model SP1098 single-port robotic platform and to describe a step-by-step approach for perineal prostatectomy and pelvic lymph node dissection in a cadaver model. Methods Three single-port robotic radical perineal prostatectomies and two pelvic lymph node dissections were performed on three male cadavers to assess the feasibility of the SP1098 da Vinci robotic platform. The steps in the procedure included division of the rectourethralis muscle, splitting of the levator ani muscles bilaterally, opening of Denonvilliers fascia with dissection of the seminal vesicles, apical dissection and urethral division, anterior and lateral dissection with ligation of prostatic pedicles, bilateral pelvic lymph node dissection, and creation of the new vesico-urethral anastomosis. The main outcomes assessed were operating time per step, total operating time, intra-operative complications and need for conversion to conventional or open techniques. Results No conversions were required. No intra-operative complications were seen. The median (range) operating time for performing single-port robotic radical perineal prostatectomy and pelvic lymph node dissection was 210 (180–240) min. Conclusions We have shown the feasibility and efficacy of a novel, purpose-built robotic system in performing single-port radical perineal prostatectomy and describe, for the first time, the feasibility of robotic perineal lymph node dissection. This single-port system will facilitate single-port applications and allow surgeons to perform major urological operations via a small, single incision while preserving triangulation and optics, and eliminating clashing between instruments. Future clinical studies are needed to support these encouraging outcomes.
FDG PET Functional Imaging in Multiple Myeloma - Clinically Important Caveats, Pitfalls, and Pearls.

We have performed 2,000+ Fluorodeoxyglucose PET (PET) scans for multiple myeloma (MM) staging and restaging at our facility since October 2001. While the usefulness of the PET scan for MM is reported by us and others elsewhere, we have reviewed our list of “incidental” but important findings, some of which are unique or occur more commonly with MM patients and some of which are common to many patients, the more common of which we present below: Occult infection occurs very commonly in patients with MM due to direct tumor effect on the immune system and to medication (especially high dose dexamethasone). Of the 2000+ PET scans for MM done at our facility, 300+ infections (about one half occult) have been detected by PET. These most commonly involve central lines (septic thrombophlebitis), diskitis, lung (either bacterial or fungal), and periodontal abscesses (a source of bacteremia in these patients), though non-catheter related spontaneous septic thrombophlebitis also occurs. While related to MM, extramedullary disease from MM (EMD) is seen more commonly with PET than MRI since PET has a wider field of view. In our series of 172 patients with both baseline PET and MRI, PET detected EMD in 11/11 patients versus MRI detection rate of 7/11. On follow-up, PET detected three times more EMD (29/31 sites) than MRI (9/31sites). Detection of EMD by PET at baseline is a profoundly negative prognostic factor in our series (12 month EFS 20% for EMD+ vs. 47% for EMD−, p = 0.002, and OS 42% for EMD+ vs. 70% for EMD−, p=0.005, n=48). Following tumor response in hypo- or non-secretory disease is difficult by standard prognostic factors (SPFs). FDG PET results were actively used for clinical management in 10 of 11 non-secretory patients at our facility. A major pitfall of PET scanning for MM comes from the use of steroids. Treatment with chemotherapy in general and steroids (i.e. prednisone or dexamethasone) in particular can result in a false negative PET scan by producing a profound but transient suppression of tumor metabolism. In addition, the hyperglycemic effect of the steroids produces competitive inhibition of FDG (a glucose analog) uptake, also causing suppression of FDG tumor uptake that can lead to an underestimation of disease. Second primary malignancies are frequently seen the MM age group. In our population, we have found unsuspected breast cancer, breast lymphoma, thyroid cancer, melanoma, colon cancer and lung cancer. In addition, we have found several functioning thyroid adenomas and premalignant colon polyps. Being a whole body imaging device for metabolism, FDG PET is a powerful though nonspecific tool for imaging that can not only help stage and restage the malignancy under question but which can yield a plethora of additional clinically useful information if used properly and with its limitations understood.
8.6 A 2.5-to-5.75GHz 5mW 0.3ps rms -jitter cascaded ring-based digital injection-locked clock multiplier in 65nm CMOS

Ring oscillator (RO)-based clock multipliers are traditionally used for clocking digital systems such as processors. While they are most commonly implemented using PLLs, it is becoming increasingly difficult to design them in a power efficient manner, as their jitter requirements grow more stringent. Recognizing that the main limitation of PLLs arises from limited RO noise suppression bandwidth (NBW = F REF /10), multiplying delay-locked loops (MDLLs) that suppress noise by replacing a RO's noisy edge with a clean reference clock edge have gained prominence [1–3]. Such an edge replacement operation suppresses RO noise with an increased NBW of about F REF /4 [1]. However, imperfections of edge replacement logic have limited the output frequency of MDLLs [1, 2] or degraded their jitter performance at frequencies beyond 2.5GHz [3]. Furthermore, MDLLs are susceptible to transistor non-idealities and require elaborate analog calibration schemes that are prone to circuit imperfections [2, 3]. In contrast to PLLs and MDLLs, injection-locked clock multipliers (ILCMs) lock RO frequency to an integer multiple (N) of F REF by injecting narrow pulses at F REF into the RO whose free running frequency is about NF REF [4]. Because ILCMs do not require logic that needs to adhere to stringent timing requirements (like MDLLs) they are better suited for generating high frequencies. However, their jitter performance is limited by: (i) smaller NBW (≈ F REF /6) compared to MDLLs, (ii) limited suppression of RO flicker noise due to their Type-I response, and (iii) the need for RO free running frequency, F FR , to be close to NF REF for maintaining low jitter performance across voltage and temperature. These factors limit the multiplication factor (usually to less than 10) and degrade power efficiency [4,5]. In this paper, we present an ILCM architecture that achieves a NBW of close to F REF /3 with a jitter of 335fs rms at 5GHz, while operating with F REF = 125MHz and consuming 5.3mW.
They can discover for themselves

The desire to help students learn to be better learners and to survive regardless of the odds demands strength on the part of the instructor sometimes similar to that required of a parent. Requiring students to perform in unfamiliar areas and providing brief introductions to new tools they may find useful, can produce surprising results with a high level of satisfaction and pride in their accomplishment. A story of how an experience provided realizations of the capabilities of students when allowed to tackle tasks far larger than they have ever experienced and to venture into unknown areas. Integration of collection of data from the Internet, development of spreadsheets and charts, and the use of word processing for delivery of the product was used to lead students into performing at a considerably higher level than many would have thought possible for themselves. It makes everybody involved focus on their accomplishment.
Telephony Speech-To-Text: An Adequate Analog to Internet Protocol Caption Telephone Services:

Hearing loss is an invisible but significant barrier in daily life, including telephone conversations. Internet Protocol Caption Telephone Services (IP CTS) is a telecommunications relay service fo...
Ethnographies of Election Campaigns

Since census data in India are not available at the constituency level, it is not possible to obtain a precise measure of the urban population in a constituency. I classify a constituency as “urban” here if (1) the urban population in the district in which it is contained is higher than the average urban population of India as a whole (25.7 percent, according to the 1991 census) and (2) if it contains one or more towns in the district. Parliamentary constituencies can often span more than one district. However, those listed here are almost all completely contained within district boundaries, although the district itself may contain more than one parliamentary constituency. Most urban constituencies here are likely to have large (sometimes majority) rural populations. However, the urban clusters they contain make them different from constituencies that are entirely rural.