cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Weaving Segments

Weaving segments are created when merge junctions are followed by diverge junctions on a roadway. When the length of the segment is sufficiently short such that weaving maneuvers induce lane-changing activity that is in excess of that occurring on a comparable basic roadway segment without weaving, a weaving segment exists.
A Convenient Apparatus for the Study of Motion Picture Films

(1938). A Convenient Apparatus for the Study of Motion Picture Films. Research Quarterly. American Association for Health and Physical Education: Vol. 9, No. 2, pp. 41-49.
Amache: A Working Bibliography on One Japanese American Concentration Camp

(1993). Amache: A Working Bibliography on One Japanese American Concentration Camp. Amerasia Journal: Vol. 19, No. 1, pp. 153-160.
The Problem of Pattern and Scale in Ecology: The Robert H. MacArthur Award Lecture

This book is the second of two volumes in a series on terrestrial and marine comparisons, focusing on the temporal complement of the earlier spatial analysis of patchiness and pattern (Levin et al. 1993). The issue of the relationships among pattern, scale, and patchiness has been framed forcefully in John Steele’s writings of two decades (e.g., Steele 1978). There is no pattern without an observational frame. In the words of Nietzsche, “There are no facts… only interpretations.”
Increased Mycoplasma-Cell Association in Transformed Human Amnion Cells

Many previous reports have dealt with the effects of the HT strain of Mycoplasma fermentans [1, 2] on FL human amnion cells. These effects include pronounced cytopathogenicity and decreased rate of growth of the surviving cell population [1]; increased resistance to reinfection after elimination of the mycoplasmas [3]; characteristic chromosomal changes [4, 5], some of which were irreversible [6]; and reduction of the tumor-producing capacity, also after elimination of the mycoplasmas [2]. The present paper concerns the distinct difference in the amounts of this Mycoplasma that may be seen in association with FL cells, and with primary normal amnion cells from which FL cells were derived by spontaneous transformation [7]. Under similar conditions or in mixed culture, FL cells could be heavily covered by mycoplasmas, whereas the primary amnion cells were mainly free of cell-associated mycoplasmas. Similar studies have also revealed great numbers of mycoplasmas associated with amnion cells transformed by simian virus 40 (SV40) [8], and with any of a number of malignant human tumor cells that have been examined. It appears that low amounts of mycoplasmas are associated with several other types of normal human cells under similar conditions of culture and infection. Cultures of primary human amnion cells were highly resistant to mycoplasmal infection. As seen in table 1, cell loss was insignificant, even six weeks after infection. Morphologic changes were inconspicuous for at least one month; after six weeks, some cells were slightly more elongated than in uninfected cultures. The table also shows the cfu of mycoplasmas per ml of culture fluid at various times after infection. These concentrations were higher in mixed cultures of FL cells and primary amnion cells than in cultures containing only primary cells. A clear demonstration of the
Pregnancy Prevention, Sexuality Education, and Coping with Opposing Views

Abstract Generating community awareness and intent to reduce teen pregnancy in a community occurs with relative ease. As intervention strategies and methods are proposed and made known in the planning process, controversies surface and create conflict among some community members. The personal values, moral issues, and politics underlying the opposition to multicomponent interventions are described. Recommendations to defuse resistance and acquire support within the community are provided.
The Effect of Ethylenediamine Chemical Modification on the Electron Transport Properties and Redox Potential of Spinach Plastocyanin

Plastocyanin (PC) is a 10.5 kD blue copper protein which transfers electrons from cytochrome f (cyt f) to P700 in chloroplasts. The crystal structure has been determined for PC (1). The copper is situated at the top of the molecule and ligated to four peptide residues including His 87 in a distorted tetrahedral geometry (Fig 1.). The copper is necessarily the active site. However the binding site and electron transfer pathway for cyt f and P700 is still in contention. NMR experiments, using artificial electron donors and acceptors, have revealed two disticnt binding sites for redox agents (2,3). Negatively charged donors were found to bind at the top of the molecule near His 87 (Site 1) and react with the copper via an outer sphere mechanism. in contrast, positively charged molecules bind at the negative patch near Tyr 83 (Site 2). This negative patch is made up of residues #42–45 and #59–61 which are highly conserved in higher plant PC’s (4). The existence of two binding sites raises the question as to which site or sites are used by its natural redox partners cytochrome f and P700.
Control of Green Peach Aphid on Green Cabbage, 2014

The objective of this study was to evaluate the residual efficacy of three industry standard insecticides at low label rates against green peach aphid in cabbage tested under desert growing conditions. Cabbage “Gazzelle” was direct seeded into double row beds on 42-inch centers on 24 January 2014. Plots were two beds in width by 45 ft in length and bordered by two untreated beds. Stand establishment was achieved using overhead sprinkler irrigation and irrigated via furrow thereafter. Four replications of each treatment were arranged in an RCB design. Formulations …
Persistent Muscle Inhibition after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: Role of Reflex Excitability

ABSTRACTPurposePersistent voluntary quadriceps activation deficits are common after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), but the direct causes are unclear. The primary purpose of this study was to determine whether spinal reflex excitability deficits are present in individuals with a hi
Two-Part Hooke Model (TPHM): Theory, Validation and Applications

Hooke’s law was discovered by Robert Hooke (1635–1703) and states that during elastic deformation of a solid body the strain is linearly proportional to the stress. While Hooke’s law was initially developed based on experimental observations for relatively homogeneous materials, natural rocks generally contain small-scale deformation heterogeneities (such as the existence of micro-cracks). To address this issue, this chapter introduces the two-part Hooke model that was developed by conceptually dividing a natural rock into hard and soft parts that are subject to different degrees of mechanical deformation under a given stress. Remarkable consistency between the model and observations from different sources, for both rock matrix and fractures, has been achieved. The usefulness of the model in dealing with several engineering problems is also demonstrated, including coal-permeability changes caused by swelling under different stress conditions, coupled hydro-mechanical processes associated with CO2 geological sequestration in a fractured formation, and evolution of the excavation damage zone related to nuclear waste disposal in a shale formation.
On the Epistemology of Breakthrough Innovation: The Orthogonal and Non-linear Natures of Discovery

One of the most important roles of researchers in technology-based companies is to develop innovative new products and processes to either increase revenue or decrease cost. However, while some have begun to consider how engineers and scientists “know,” most practitioners and researchers of corporate innovation carry unarticulated, less-than-fully-developed assumptions about this topic. In the present work, we gain insight into the orthogonal (“know what” ) and non-linear (“know how” ) natures of the epistemology of breakthrough innovation by reflecting on both the characteristics of those who innovate and the characteristics of how breakthrough innovation actually occurs.
The arid zones of Mexico: climatic extremes and conceptualization of the Sonoran Desert

Arid and semi-arid climates occupy more than half (52%) of Mexico's national territory. Although this in itself presents substantial problems for land-use development, some of the hottest (57°C) and driest conditions (≤32 mm/year) found anywhere have occurred in the arid zones of Mexico. Also, and perhaps surprisingly, the lowest official temperature (–20°C) in Mexico was recorded in the Chihuahuan Desert. Close examination of the climatic data indicates that caution is in order particularly pertaining to maximum temperature extremes. In order to establish relatively firm boundaries for the Sonoran Desert, climatic data from more than 250 weather stations were utilized to delineate this arid zone based upon the de Martonne Aridity Index. In addition, 17 conceptualizations (12 presented here) of the Sonoran Desert were mapped at the same scale to determine their relevance and consistency.
China’s Political Stability: Comparisons and Reflections

There has been a long and ongoing debate about whether China is stable or fragile. This study hopes to shed some new light on this debate by placing the issue of China’s political stability in a global, comparative context. We have analysed a total of six sets of publicly available indices measuring political stability and state fragility. Special attention has been given to comparing China with Brazil, India, Russia and South Africa, members of the so-called BRICS group. Our findings present a “mixed picture” which suggests that the Chinese government has no reasons for celebration or for paranoia. China has indeed been facing multiple sources of threats to its political stability, but it is no more politically unstable or fragile than many others in the world.
Atiprimod Inhibits the Growth of JAK2 Tyrosine Kinase Over-Expressing Cells “In Vitro” and “Ex Vivo”.

Background: A novel somatic single point non-synonymous mutation (1849 G to T) in the tyrosine kinase JAK2 , rendering the enzyme constitutively active, has been reported in classical myeloproliferative disorders (MPD), specifically, in greater than 90% of patients with polycythemia vera (PV), and 50% of patients with essential thrombocythemia (ET) and myelofibrosis with myeloid metaplasia (MMM). Consequently, JAK2 tyrosine kinase has become a significant target for the development of specific inhibitors of its activity with possible therapeutic benefits for patients with classical MPD. We report here the results of a study using atiprimod, an anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer compound belonging to the azaspirane class of cationic amphiphilic drugs in JAK2 over-expressing cell lines and patient samples. In contrast to TKI inhibitors, this drug is causing downregulation of JAK2 protein by facilitating its degradation, possibly through the ubiquitin-proteosome pathway (Faderl, S. et al, Leukemia Research 2006 in press). Methods and Results: We have examined the growth inhibitory effect of atiprimod against two mouse FDCP cell lines transfected with erythropoietin receptor (Epo-R) and, either wild-type JAK2 ( JAK2 WT ) or mutant JAK2 ( JAK2 V617F ). Atiprimod growth inhibition, measured using 72 hours MTS assay, was significant against both mutant JAK2 V617F cells (IC 50 0.42μM) and wild-type JAK2 WT cells (IC 50 0.65μM). Atiprimod was found to induce apoptosis in cell lines as evidenced by an increase in the mitochondrial membrane potential and augmented annexin V positivity by flow cytometry. Mononuclear cells, isolated from peripheral blood of PV patients ( JAK2 V617F positive), were cultured in cytokine supplemented serum free media for expansion of erythroid progenitors. Expansion spanned a three week, three step sequential treatment of the erythroid progenitor cells with specific combinations of cytokines. Finally, treatment of expanded erythroid progenitor cells with atiprimod for 24 and 48 hours resulted in increased annexin V positive cells, in both, a dose and time dependent manner. Conclusion: Our preliminary pre-clinical results suggest that atiprimod might be a beneficial medication for MPD patients carrying the JAK2 V617F mutation. Atiprimod is currently being tested in a phase I clinical study.
Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction: Do You Know Your Left Atrial Strain?

Symptomatic heart failure, despite preserved left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction, is a well-recognized phenomenon. This manifestation of diastolic dysfunction is associated with increased morbidity and mortality and can be attributed to a variety of pathogeneses, including diabetes mellitus, hypertension, infiltrative processes, and obesity.1–5 Unlike in systolic heart failure, where LV ejection fraction readily stratifies disease severity, accurate diagnosis and grading of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) can be a challenging. Without an equivalent, single, noninvasive diagnostic tool in HFpEF, we must instead rely on a myriad of measures to establish diagnosis and severity. This is best illustrated by the current European and American guidelines, which incorporate ≤8 separate imaging indices into their recommended protocols for diagnosis and classification of diastolic dysfunction.6,7 Although, new guidelines from the American Society of Echocardiography and the European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging will attempt to simplify assessment of diastolic dysfunction with the use of 4 key variables, such as mitral annular early diastolic (e′) velocities, average E/e′ ratio, indexed left atrial (LA) volume, and peak tricuspid regurgitant velocity (personal communication, A.L. Klein, MD, unpublished data, 2016). See Article by Freed et al LA size, initially measured as area and now revised to indexed volume, has long been felt to be a sentinel marker of diastolic dysfunction. As such, it features prominently in diagnostic algorithms and is measured routinely in all accredited echocardiographic laboratories. Increasing LA size typically reflects worsening diastolic dysfunction and is known to be associated with increased adverse events, including hospitalizations for heart failure and cardiac death.8 It is widely accepted that this increase in LA size is a consequence of chronically increased LV pressures, associated with increased myocardial stiffness and resultant impaired LV myocardial diastolic relaxation. Once dilated, LA volume will reduce but …
Testing for Rank Invariance or Similarity in Program Evaluation

This paper discusses testable implications of rank invariance or rank similarity, assumptions that are common in program evaluation and quantile treatment eect (QTE) models. We nonparametrically identify and test the counterfactual distribution of individual potential ranks, or features of the distribution. The tests allow treatment to be endogenous, while essentially not requiring any additional assumptions other than those used to identify and estimate QTEs. We focus on testing ranks in the unconditional distribution of potential outcomes, and briey discuss testing for invariance or similarity of conditional ranks. The proposed tests are applied to the JTPA training program and Project STAR. For the former, we investigate whether job training causes individuals to systematically change their ranks in the earnings distribution; for the latter, we analyze the impacts of small classes and teacher aides on the gender performance gap in early childhood education. Also investigated is how these educational treatments interact with teacher experience in aecting students’ relative performance.
Enhanced ionization efficiency in TIMS analyses of plutonium and americium using porous ion emitters

Abstract Investigations of enhanced sample utilization in thermal ionization mass spectrometry (TIMS) using porous ion emitter (PIE) techniques for the analyses of trace quantities of americium and plutonium were performed. Repeat ionization efficiency (i.e., the ratio of ions detected to atoms loaded on the filament) measurements were conducted on sample sizes ranging from 10–100 pg for americium and 1–100 pg for plutonium using PIE and traditional (i.e., a single, zone-refined rhenium, flat filament ribbon with a carbon ionization enhancer) TIMS filament sources. When compared to traditional filaments, PIEs exhibited an average boost in ionization efficiency of ∼550% for plutonium and ∼1100% for americium. A maximum average efficiency of 1.09% was observed at a 1 pg plutonium sample loading using PIEs. Supplementary trials were conducted using newly developed platinum PIEs to analyze 10 pg mass loadings of plutonium. Platinum PIEs exhibited an additional ∼134% boost in ion yield over standard PIEs and ∼736% over traditional filaments at the same sample loading level.
Outcome of patients with intracranial relapse enrolled on national Wilms Tumor Study Group clinical trials

Background The occurrence of brain metastases (at diagnosis or at relapse) in patients with Wilms tumor is very rare. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the clinical characteristics of patients with Wilms tumor and relapse to the brain enrolled on the National Wilms Tumor Studies (NWTSs) 1–5. Results Intracranial relapse was documented in 47 patients (0.5%). Of the 45 patients with adequate data, 26 (58%) patients were male. Thirty-eight (84%) patients had favorable histology Wilms tumor. In 30 patients (67%), the appearance of intracranial disease was preceded by relapse at another site. Ten patients did not have any disease-directed therapy. Surgical resection was attempted in 15 patients; gross total resection was achieved in 11 patients. Twenty-nine patients received brain irradiation; the median dose was 3,000 cGy (range 1,080–4,000 cGy). Twenty-seven patients received chemotherapy. The 5-year overall survival from the time of intracranial relapse was 28.7% (95% confidence interval: 14.4–43.1%). Nine patients (all favorable histology Wilms tumor) were alive with a median follow-up from brain relapse of 140 months (range 35–381 months). All nine survivors received radiation therapy, eight received chemotherapy, and four underwent surgery (two gross total resection, two partial resection). The overall survival after brain metastases of the NWTS-5 patients was significantly higher than the overall survival of the NWTS 1–4 patients (P value = 0.029, log–rank test). Conclusions Patients with Wilms tumor recurrence involving the brain may have durable survival, particularly those treated in recent years. Multimodality therapy including radiation and chemotherapy should be considered for these patients.
The rotavirus vaccine development pipeline

Rotavirus disease is a leading global cause of mortality and morbidity in children under 5years of age. The effectiveness of the two globally used oral rotavirus vaccines quickly became apparent when introduced into both developed and developing countries, with significant reductions in rotavirus-associated mortality and hospitalizations. However, the effectiveness and impact of the vaccines is reduced in developing country settings, where the burden and mortality is highest. New rotavirus vaccines, including live oral rotavirus candidates and non-replicating approaches continue to be developed, with the major aim to improve the global supply of rotavirus vaccines and for local implementation, and to improve vaccine effectiveness in developing settings. This review provides an overview of the new rotavirus vaccines in development by developing country manufacturers and provides a rationale why newer candidates continue to be explored. It describes the new live oral rotavirus vaccine candidates as well as the non-replicating rotavirus vaccines that are furthest along in development.
Surfers as Environmental Stewards: Understanding Place-protecting Behavior at Cape Hatteras National Seashore

ABSTRACTResource-based adventure activities have a unique potential to foster connections to place that may assist park managers in simultaneously promoting enjoyable visitor experiences and achieving environmental sustainability. Our study examined links among recreation, conservation, and place attachment by comparing the pro-environmental attitudes and behaviors of surfers (n = 52) and other types of recreationists (n = 56) at Cape Hatteras National Seashore (CAHA). Intercept surveys during 2016 revealed that when compared to nonsurfers, surfers were more frequent visitors to CAHA and reported significantly higher levels of place attachment. When controlling for other variables, surfers were also more likely than other recreationists to engage in both high-effort (e.g., participating in environmental groups) and low-effort (e.g., picking up litter on the beach) forms of place-protecting, pro-environmental behavior at CAHA. Managers should consider the potentially powerful role that surfers and other ad...
Origins and Genetic Diversity of Introduced Populations of the Puerto Rican Red-Eyed Coquí, Eleutherodactylus antillensis, in Saint Croix (U.S. Virgin Islands) and Panamá

The Red-eyed Coqui, Eleutherodactylus antillensis, is a terrestrial frog endemic to the Puerto Rican Bank (Puerto Rico and numerous islands and cays off its eastern coast), in the eastern Caribbean Sea. The species was likely introduced in Saint Croix, an island c. 100 km southeast of Puerto Rico, in the late 1930s, and in Panama City, Panama, in the late 1950s or early 1960s, but the source(s) of these introductions are unknown. We analyzed sequence data from one mtDNA locus and four nuDNA introns to infer the origin(s) of the Saint Croix and Panama City populations and quantify their genetic diversity. Saint Croix and Panamanian populations do not share any haplotypes, and they cluster with different native populations, suggesting that they are derived from separate sources in the Puerto Rican Bank. Patterns of population structure trace the probable sources of E. antillensis in Saint Croix to islands off Puerto Rico's eastern coast, which include Vieques, Culebra, Saint Thomas, Saint John, Tortola, and Virgin Gorda, and possibly to eastern Puerto Rico as well. In contrast, Panama City E. antillensis probably originated from either western or eastern Puerto Rico. Genetic diversity in the introduced populations is similar to or lower than in populations in the species' native range, indicating that genetic diversity has not increased in the alien frogs. Our findings may facilitate the development of preventive measures to minimize introductions of non-native amphibians in the Caribbean and Central America.
Effects of Minor Food Theft on Social Perceptions of Culprits and Victims

Evolutionary psychologists have highlighted the importance of trust in human social relations. The impact of an incident of food theft on impressions of both “victims” and perpetrators was investigated using videos of six mixed-sex pairs of adult actors eating in a restaurant. These were viewed by 191 adults who then provided their impressions including ratings of the actors on Trustworthiness and Sneakiness scales. Seeing a single incident of theft of a small portion of another’s food was sufficient to alter impressions of the perpetrators’ trustworthiness and sneakiness, as well as hiring decisions and judgements of relationship fidelity and self-confidence. Being a victim of food theft had no effect on these but did lower ratings of the male victims’ confidence. The results demonstrate the power of a minor social transgression to alter impressions of trustworthiness and other traits.
A PEDOT:PSS-based organic electrochemical transistor with a novel double-in-plane gate electrode for pH sensing application

We develop a miniaturized PEDOT:PSS-based organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs) with a high transconductance of 35 mS for a pH sensing application. In order to achieve such a high transconductance, we designed, fabricated, and characterized a novel double-in-plane gate electrode. All electrodes (gate, source, and drain) were placed in the same plane. Such a high transconductance with in-plane architecture will allow the development of portable OECT arrays for various chemical/biological sensing applications.
Human Memory B Cells Targeting Staphylococcus aureus Exotoxins Are Prevalent with Skin and Soft Tissue Infection.

Staphylococcus aureus is a Gram-positive opportunistic pathogen that causes superficial and invasive infections in the hospital and community. High mortality from infection emphasizes the need for improved methods for prevention and treatment. Although S. aureus possesses an arsenal of virulence factors that contribute to evasion of host defenses, few studies have examined long-term humoral and B-cell responses. Adults with acute-phase skin and soft tissue infections were recruited; blood samples were obtained; and S. aureus isolates, including methicillin-resistant strains, were subjected to genomic sequence analysis. In comparisons of acute-phase sera with convalescent-phase sera, a minority (37.5%) of patients displayed 2-fold or greater increases in antibody titers against three or more S. aureus antigens, whereas nearly half exhibited no changes, despite the presence of toxin genes in most infecting strains. Moreover, enhanced antibody responses waned over time, which could reflect a defect in B-cell memory or long-lived plasma cells. However, memory B cells reactive with a range of S. aureus antigens were prevalent at both acute-phase and convalescent-phase time points. While some memory B cells exhibited toxin-specific binding, those cross-reactive with structurally related leucocidin subunits were dominant across patients, suggesting the targeting of conserved epitopes. Memory B-cell reactivity correlated with serum antibody levels for selected S. aureus exotoxins, suggesting a relationship between the cellular and humoral compartments. Overall, although there was no global defect in the representation of anti-S. aureus memory B cells, there was evidence of restrictions in the range of epitopes recognized, which may suggest potential therapeutic approaches for augmenting host defenses.IMPORTANCE The contribution of B-cell memory and long-term antibody responses to host defenses against S. aureus exotoxins remains poorly understood. Our studies confirmed that infection did not commonly lead to enhanced long-term humoral responses. Whereas circulating memory B cells against S. aureus secreted exotoxins were prevalent, they were dominated by cross-reactivity with structurally related leucocidin subunits, consistent with recognition of conserved epitopes. These findings also provide the first evidence of a relationship between the reactivity of antistaphylococcal circulating memory B cells and serum antibody levels. In general, infection was not associated with a global defect in B-cell memory for S. aureus secreted factors, and responses were highly dominated by cross-reactivity to structurally related exotoxins, which arguably may alone be suboptimal in providing host defenses. Our studies illuminate aspects of the S. aureus-host relationship that may better inform strategies for the development of an effective protective vaccine.
Performance of a New “Code Stroke” Process in Hospitalized Patients in a Comprehensive Stroke Center in Minnesota (P6.005)

Objective: This study describes the impact of revising an in-patient stroke protocol. Background: Literature suggests that stroke in hospitalized in-patients is under-recognized and the morbidity and mortality rates of in-patient strokes exceed those of out of hospital stroke. Efficient team processes play a factor in a favorable prognosis for hospitalized patients suspected of having a stroke. Design/Methods: A new in-patient stroke protocol was implemented as a quality improvement project. The focused actions included nursing education, introduction of documentation tools, and communication of the quality metrics in a process whereby the bedside nurse activates ‘Code Stroke’ using same criteria as used by EMS and ED triage nurses. Code Stroke activates a specialized stroke team and clears the CT scanner. Feedback was provided in real-time and in writing to the participating care team. The analysis utilized a prospectively maintained database of inpatient stroke, feedback communications, and chart review. The metrics used to examine the performance of the new process were: rate of stroke symptoms identification, errors in paging, errors in documentation, time to CT, and outcome of code activation. Results: In the 6 months prior to the new protocol, a ‘Code Stroke’ was activated 5 times, only one was a true stroke and was treated with thrombectomy. In the 6 months after the new protocol, ‘Code Stroke’ was activated 46 times, with 15 confirmed strokes (14 ischemic, 1 hemorrhagic). A change in care occurred for 13 patients, including IV alteplase (n=2), thrombectomy (n=1), change in medical management (n=9), and decompressive hemicraniectomy (n=1). Mean time for Code Stroke to CT was 26 minutes despite errors in pages (wrong call back number, incorrect code designation). Conclusions: The new process increased detection and treatment of in-patient strokes. Elements of success include system-wide organization, simplifying the process, mirroring ED process, and availability of stroke response team. Disclosure: Dr. Droegemueller has received personal compensation for consulting, serving on a scientific advisory board, speaking, or other activities with The Joint Commission. Dr. Wagner has nothing to disclose. Dr. Kashyap has nothing to disclose. Dr. Clayton has nothing to disclose. Dr. Fennig has nothing to disclose. Dr. Hanson has nothing to disclose. Dr. Hussein has nothing to disclose.
Anesthesia for Neonatal Emergencies: General Principles

On a daily basis, pediatric anesthesiologists encounter challenges related to the size of their patients, “competition” for surface area to utilize monitoring equipment, as well as gaining access to the airway and blood vessels. All these challenges are further aggravated in premature infants and neonates, and yet again more aggravated in emergent situations.
Verification of large systems in silicon

Two new trends are emerging in the design and production of very large integrated systems on silicon: on the one hand technology that enables a new opportunity for trade in encapsulated intellectual property cast into re-usable blocks for system-level use and, on the other, the partition of the vertical flow from high-level design through to manufacture into at least three separate businesses — the system design house, the IP provider and the silicon implementation house. While the situation appears to be similar to that which prevailed at lower scales of integration (e.g. TTL and boards), the complexity and scale of the new systems and their components pose interesting challenges for designers and the businesses in which they operate. This paper considers, in particular, the challenges that relate to design and verification flow and some possible consequences for the evolution and use of HDLs.
Saving Stare Decisis: Preclusion, Precedent, and Procedural Due Process

Judgments do not bind nonparties. This core due process constraint on issue preclusion means that courts can only adjudicate questions of fact and law with respect to those individuals appearing in court. However, the operation of stare decisis routinely extinguishes the rights of nonparties without notice or an opportunity to be heard. This Article examines the due process challenge to the operation of precedent. The traditional justifications for applying a due process analysis only to preclusion and not to precedent are inadequate. Instead of excepting stare decisis from the operation of procedural due process, we should see it as meeting those requirements. Using the Supreme Court’s analysis from Mathews v. Eldridge, stare decisis can survive a due process challenge based on the central value of third party reliance. While stare decisis survives in general, applying notions of procedural due process changes the traditional view of precedent in important situations. In cases where reliance is nonexistent, or where the initial process was corrupted, application of stare decisis may not withstand a due process challenge.
Abstract 374: Lack of Fibronectin Containing Extra Domain a Attenuates Acute Myocardial Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury in Hyperlipidemic Mice by Limiting Postischemic Thrombo-inflammation

Background: Reperfusion therapy is standard care for patients following acute myocardial infarction. Fibronectin-splicing variant containing extra domain A (Fn-EDA), which is an endogenous ligand f...
Vertical position of the Sun with $\gamma$-rays

We illustrate a method for estimating the vertical position of the Sun above the Galactic plane by $\gamma$-ray observations. Photons of $\gamma$-ray wavelengths are particularly well suited for geometrical and kinematic studies of the Milky Way because they are not subject to extinction by interstellar gas or dust. Here, we use the radioactive decay line of $\mathrm{^{26}Al}$ at $1.809\,\mathrm{MeV}$ to perform maximum likelihood fits to data from the spectrometer SPI on board the INTEGRAL satellite as a proof-of-concept study. Our simple analytic 3D emissivity models are line-of-sight integrated, and varied as a function of the Sun's vertical position, given a known distance to the Galactic centre. We find a vertical position of the Sun of $z_0 = 15 \pm 17\,\mathrm{pc}$ above the Galactic plane, consistent with previous studies, finding $z_0$ in a range between $5$ and $29\,\mathrm{pc}$. Even though the sensitivity of current MeV instruments is several orders of magnitude below that of telescopes for other wavelengths, this result reveals once more the disregarded capability of soft $\gamma$-ray telescopes. We further investigate possible biases in estimating the vertical extent of $\gamma$-ray emission if the Sun's position is set incorrectly, and find that the larger the true extent, the less is it affected by the observer position. In the case of $\mathrm{^{26}Al}$ with an exponential scale height of $150,\mathrm{pc}$ ($700\,\mathrm{pc}$) in the inner (full) Galaxy, this may lead to misestimates of up to $25\,\%$.
Effects of COVID-19 "Sheltering in Place" on Activity in People With Multiple Sclerosis

Wrist-worn activity monitors can capture in real-time the ecological impact of environmental perturbations on physical activity.
Interferon γ neutralization reduces blood pressure, uterine artery resistance index, and placental oxidative stress in placental ischemic rats

Preeclampsia (PE) is characterized by maternal hypertension, intrauterine growth restriction, and increased cytolytic natural killer cells (cNKs), which secrete interferon γ (IFNγ). However, the pr...
Scene Uncertainty and the Wellington Posterior of Deterministic Image Classifiers.

We propose a method to estimate the uncertainty of the outcome of an image classifier on a given input datum. Deep neural networks commonly used for image classification are deterministic maps from an input image to an output class. As such, their outcome on a given datum involves no uncertainty, so we must specify what variability we are referring to when defining, measuring and interpreting "confidence." To this end, we introduce the Wellington Posterior, which is the distribution of outcomes that would have been obtained in response to data that could have been generated by the same scene that produced the given image. Since there are infinitely many scenes that could have generated the given image, the Wellington Posterior requires induction from scenes other than the one portrayed. We explore alternate methods using data augmentation, ensembling, and model linearization. Additional alternatives include generative adversarial networks, conditional prior networks, and supervised single-view reconstruction. We test these alternatives against the empirical posterior obtained by inferring the class of temporally adjacent frames in a video. These developments are only a small step towards assessing the reliability of deep network classifiers in a manner that is compatible with safety-critical applications.
Intake of fruits and vegetables by pesticide residue status in relation to cancer risk.

Abstract Background Conventionally grown fruits and vegetables (FVs) are the main source of general population exposure to pesticide residues. Objective To evaluate the relation of intake of high- and low-pesticide-residue FVs with cancer risk. Methods We followed 150,830 women (Nurses’ Health Study, 1998–2016, and Nurses’ Health Study II, 1999–2017) and 29,486 men (Health Professionals Follow-up Study, 1998–2016) without a history of cancer. We ascertained FV intake via validated food frequency questionnaires and categorized FVs as having high or low pesticide residue levels based on USDA surveillance data. We used Cox proportional hazards models to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of total and site-specific cancer related to quintiles of high- and low-pesticide-residue FV intake. Results We documented 23,678 incident cancer cases during 2,862,118 person-years of follow-up. In the pooled multivariable analysis, neither high- nor low-pesticide-residue FV intake was associated with cancer. The HRs (95% CI) per 1 serving/day increase in intake were 0.99 (0.97–1.01) for high- and 1.01 (0.99–1.02) for low-pesticide-residue FVs. Additionally, we found no association between high-pesticide-residue FV intake and risk of specific sites, including malignancies previously linked to occupational pesticide exposure ([HR, 95% CI comparing extreme quintiles of intake] lung [1.17 (0.95–1.43)], non-Hodgkin lymphoma [0.89 (0.72–1.09)], prostate [1.31 (0.88–1.93)]) or inversely related to intake of organic foods (breasts [1.03 (0.94–1.31)]). Conclusions These findings suggest that overall exposure to pesticides through FV intake is not related to cancer risk, although they do not rule out associations with specific chemicals or sub-types of specific cancers.
A comparative test of inequity aversion in domestic dogs (Canis familiaris) and dingoes (Canis dingo).

Despite much recent empirical work on inequity aversion in nonhuman species, many questions remain about its distribution across taxa and the factors that shape its evolution and expression. Past work suggests that domestic dogs (Canis familiaris) and wolves (Canis lupus) are averse to inequitable resource distributions in contexts that call upon some degree of training such as ‘give paw’ and ‘buzzer press’ tasks. However, it is unclear whether inequity aversion appears in other canid species and in other experimental contexts. Using a novel inequity aversion task that does not require specific training, this study helps address these gaps by investigating inequity aversion in domestic dogs and a closely related but non-domesticated canid, the dingo (Canis dingo). Subjects were presented with equal and unequal reward distributions and given the opportunity to approach or refuse to approach allocations. Measures of interest were (1) subjects’ refusal to approach when getting no food; (2) approach latency; and (3) social referencing. None of these measures differed systematically across the inequity condition and control conditions in either dogs or dingoes. These findings add to the growing literature on inequity aversion in canids, providing data from a new species and a new experimental context. Additionally, they raise questions about the experimental features that must be in place for inequity aversion to appear in canids.
Illicit Drug Transport

One of the consequences of the ongoing global revolution in transportation and telecommunications is an increasingly uneven distribution of wealth both between rich and poor countries and within national borders in underdeveloped countries. New businesses stimulated by the enhanced demand created by these rapidly advancing technologies have made available a range of products and services, most of which are a boon to humankind but others have created personal tragedies, social decay, and political instability. The transnational, even intercontinental, trade in illicit drugs is a prime example of the disruptive effects of high-speed travel and the instantaneous transfer of information. Today, the commerce in addictive substances such as marijuana, hashish, heroin, and cocaine in its various forms, including crack, has become a multibillion dollar worldwide industry. The fact that it is illegal in most jurisdictions heightens the risk but magnifies the profit for manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers [1].
Highly efficient novel text steganography algorithms

This paper investigates eight novel Steganography algorithms employing text file as a carrier file. The proposed model hides secret data in the text file by manipulating the font format or inserting special symbols in the text file. Furthermore, the suggested algorithms can be applied to both Unicode and ASCII code languages, regardless of the text file format. In addition, a merging capability among the techniques is introduced, which allows alternatives for users based on the system requirements. The proposed algorithms achieve a high degree of optimized Steganography attributes such as hidden ratio, robustness, and transparency.
Social media and the world of work : A strategic approach to employees’ participation in social media

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore the risks and benefits of employees’ social media use for an organization's reputation, and delivers suggestions for a strategic management approach. Design/methodology/approach – The findings of this research paper are based on a comprehensive literature review and supported by a leading practice example. Findings – Through social media, employees function as powerful brand ambassadors who shape reputation with everything they do and say online. This requires a strategic management approach to employees’ social media use, including research, internet access at the workplace, a strong commitment from the C-suite, the establishment of social media teams, the implementation of guidelines and policies, training and education, integration, as well as goal setting and measurement. These eight key steps will help communications professionals to better prevent the risks and leverage the benefits of their employees’ participation in the social web. Originality/val...
A model of near-surface coupled-flow effects on the diurnal thermal regime of a peat-covered palsa

Summary The thermal regime in the moist surficial peat layer of a paisa, measured during a clear and calm July day in arctic Alaska, indicates that coupled heat and water flow retard ablation of the ice core. A simulation model of coupled-flow effects was constructed using rough estimates of meteorological boundary conditions and material properties. The model indicates that ablation is inhibited by advection of cold water above the ice/peat interface, and by internal evaporation near the surface. Evaporation also limits thermal maxima near the surface; because the ratio of the heat of evaporation to the heat of fusion is approximately 7.5, the coupled-flow regime effectively retards ablation of the palsa's ice core.
Effect of repeated deforestation on vegetation dynamics for phosphorus‐limited tropical forests

[1] For some predominately phosphorus (P)-limited ecosystems, vegetation can be sustained under steady state conditions by atmospheric P inputs. The structure of the canopy influences deposition via the ability of the canopy to trap airborne P. This dependence suggests that a positive feedback may exist, which would have important impacts on the process of forest regeneration. One source of disturbance in the tropics is shifting cultivation. Over multiple cycles, studies have shown that shifting cultivation can lead to a large net loss of soil P, with a concomitant decline in forest biomass. In this study a model was developed to assess how shifting cultivation affects vegetation and phosphorus dynamics. This model is applied as a case study to a dry tropical forest system in the Southern Yucatan that is primarily P limited and has experienced shifting cultivation over several decades. Results show that following the second cycle, recovery would only be achieved after 100 years or longer in comparison to ∼30 years after one cycle. Examining the stable states of the system suggests that two stable states exist and that state changes as brought about by repeated disturbance can cause a shift to the other “low vegetation” stable state. Thus, for predominately P-limited ecosystems undergoing repeated disturbance, the depletion of soil P can significantly affect the long-term ability of the forest vegetation to recover. Results from this study have widespread implications, as 400 million ha of forest are affected by shifting cultivation.
Nuclear systematics: I. Solar abundance of the elements

Nuclear systematics and the abundance of elements and isotopes in meteorites, in planets, in the solar photosphere, in the solar wind, and in solar flares are used to estimate the abundance of elements in the Sun. The results indicate that 56Fe, the decay product of doubly-magic 56Ni, is the Sun"s most abundant nuclide. The next most abundant nuclide is the doubly-magic 16O. The most abundant elements – Fe, Ni, O, Si, S, Mg, and Ca – are the even-Z elements that Harkins1 found to comprise -99% of ordinary meteorites. The least abundant elements have loosely bound nucleons (Li, Be and B) further confirming the proposed link1 between abundance and nuclear structure, with one conspicuous and important exception. Diffusion enriches light-weight nuclides at the solar surface, hiding the link of abundance to nuclear stability beneath the Sun"s H-rich exterior.
Optimal Tax Policy and the Symmetries of Ignorance

What government-observable characteristics should determine the taxes that an individual pays and/or the transfers that she receives? This article focuses on a specific aspect of this fundamental question of tax policy: the implications of policymakers’ uncertainty regarding the outcomes of tax policy choices. The article identifies and questions two implicit premises in policy-uncertainty-based arguments against including taxable attributes other than labor earnings in the base. The first is that greater uncertainty surrounds the optimal taxation of non-labor-earnings attributes than surrounds the optimal taxation of labor earnings. The second is that tax policymakers ought to follow a kind of precautionary principle under which uncertainty regarding an attribute counsels base exclusion. The article explains why both premises are flawed.The appendices for this paper are available at the following URL: http://ssrn.com/abstract=1967548
Targeting colorectal cancer with anti-epidermal growth factor receptor antibodies: focus on panitumumab

The tumor biology targeted therapies have improved outcomes in colorectal cancer (CRC). The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors represent one of these successful strategies. EGFR is frequently overexpressed in CRCs and associated with a malignant phenotype. Two EGFR inhibitors have shown efficacy in metastatic CRC, cetuximab and panitumumab. Cetuximab is a human-mouse chimeric monoclonal antibody that binds to the extracellular domain of the EGF-receptor. Similarly, panitumumab is a fully humanized monoclonal IgG(2) antibody, directed against EGFR. Being fully humanized, panitumumab does not contain mouse protein reducing the risk of hypersensitivity. In a pivotal clinical trial, panitumumab was well tolerated and effective, demonstrating an objective response rate of 10% vs best supportive care (ORR = 0%; P < 0.0001). Panitumumab was approved for the treatment of mCRC by the FDA in 2006. Studies combining panitumumab with cytotoxic chemotherapy and other targeted therapies have been completed while others are ongoing to further evaluate the clinical utility of this agent. Recently it has been demonstrated that mutations in KRAS predict the efficacy of panitumumab and cetuximab, limiting their use to CRC patients with wild-type KRAS, and moving the clinical field towards personalized cancer care.