cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A watermarking algorithm for polysomnography data

A blind watermarking algorithm for polysomnography (PSG) data in European Data Format (EDF) has been developed for the identification and attribution of shared data. This is accomplished by hiding a unique identifier in the phase spectrum of each PSG epoch using an undisclosed key so that a third party cannot retrieve the watermark without knowledge of the key. A pattern discovery algorithm is developed to find the watermark pattern even though the data may have been altered. The method is evaluated using 25 PSG studies from the Sleep Heart Health Study database. The integrity of the signal data was determined using time series measures of both the original and watermarked signals, and by determining its effect on scoring sleep stages from the PSG data. The results of the analysis indicate that the proposed watermarking method for PSG data is an effective and efficient way to identify shared data without compromising its intended use.
INCENTIVE EFFECTS OF STOCK PURCHASE PLANS

Abstract Financial economists are interested in whether alternative compensation plans are adopted primarily for tax, incentive or signaling reasons. As most compensation plans have tax implications, examining for other effects is difficult. In this paper we examine the stock market reaction to employee stock purchase plans which are ‘non-tax advantageous’ and adopted for incentive/signaling reasons. The results suggest that (1) equity-based compensation schemes have a positive effect on shareholder wealth for reasons other than tax reduction, (2) a motive for adopting these plans is to align managerial and shareholder interests, and (3) equity ownership motivates key executives more than subordinate employees.
Stock Enhancement and Carrying Capacity of Blue Crab Nursery Habitats in Chesapeake Bay

Declining populations of the blue crab, Callinectes sapidus, may be suitable for enhancement with hatchery-reared juveniles. Fo r three years, field experiments were conducted to determine if shallow, unvegetated, marsh-fringed nursery habitats in lower Chesapeake Bay are below carrying capacity and thus capable of supporting additional juvenile crabs. The field experiments included sampling of wild and hatchery-reared juvenile blue crabs and their major benthic prey, and manipulative experiments to assess the survival of juvenile crabs and the abundance of benthic prey in enhanced and control coves. Densities of the clam Macoma balthica ,a major prey of the blue crab, were initially high in enhanced coves and decreased to a level equivalent to that in control coves by the end of the experiment, but always remained well above a low-density threshold. Survival of juvenile crabs was lowest where clam densities were highest, suggesting that alternative prey did not deter predation on juvenile crabs, but instead led to higher densities of cannibalistic crabs through bottom-up control. Crab densities correlated with densities of major benthic prey and prey density never dropped below a low-density threshold. Marsh-fringed nurseries are apparently below carrying capacity for the blue crab and could be enhanced through the release of hatchery-reared juveniles.
Reflecting on the Experience Sampling Method in the Qualitative Research Context: Focus on Knowledge Production and Power during the Data-Collection Process

In this conceptual article, we discuss how the conventional experience sampling method (ESM) was applied to a qualitative research project to increase participants' agency and empowerment during data collection. Specifically we outline the conceptual and methodological tensions, complexities, and power shifts that emerged during our data-collection process. Research examples illustrate the location of knowers (researchers and study participants), the knowers' relationship to various tangible objects of research (e.g., protocols, digital devices), and how these notions shape power and data that is constructed within a research study. We conclude that it is important to analyze and reflect on how researchers conduct themselves during the data-collection process, and how research can be adapted to reflect the needs and social circumstances of the participants. Our experiences suggest that greater awareness of power shifts during the data-collection process will help researchers better understand the nuances ...
P05.41. Development and evaluation of group medical visits for medically underserved women with chronic pelvic pain

Purpose Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) severely impacts quality of life and is one of the most common medical problems among women. Effective management of CPP is needed, particularly for underserved women with limited access to quality care. We developed and evaluated group medical visits for women with CPP drawing from: (1) the Centering model, an innovative approach to groupbased healthcare across the lifecourse; and (2) integrative medicine emphasizing quality of life through patient-centered care.
EGFR-directed antibodies increase the risk of severe infection in cancer patients

Monoclonal antibodies directed to the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) have a role in the management of several solid tumors, alone or in combination with chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Recognized toxicities have included hypersensitivity reactions, rash, hypomagnesemia, and constitutional symptoms, but the possibility that the agents lead to immunosuppression or increase the risk of infection has only recently been recognized. Two latest meta-analyses, including the recently published article by Qi et al., highlight the increased risk of severe infections with EGFR-directed monoclonal antibodies. Further studies are needed to better identify the association between EGFR-directed monoclonal antibody treatment and infection, as well as to elucidate the mechanism of this toxicity and to develop tools to identify patients at increased risk for these complications. In the meantime, awareness of the role of EGFR-directed antibodies in increased infection risk may have implications for dose modification strategies in both clinical trial design and the practice of oncology. Please see related article: http://www.biomedcentral.com/1741-7015/12/203.
Institutional and economic influences on the adoption and extensiveness of managerial innovation in hospitals: The case of reengineering.

In the recent past, a number of managerial innovations—including product line management, total quality management, and reengineering—have swept through the hospital industry. Given their pervasiveness and their cost, understanding the mix of factors that influences their adoption is of theoretical interest and practical relevance. The research reported here focuses on this general question by examining influences on the adoption and extensiveness of a particular managerial innovation, hospital reengineering. The results suggest that while economic and institutional factors have influenced the adoption and extensiveness of hospital reengineering, institutional forces play a more important role. The greater influence of institutional forces may be attributed to the high degree of uncertainty in health care, the causal ambiguity of the innovation, and the anticipatory actions of hospitals attempting to position themselves in a rapidly changing environment.
Estimating the expense of a mandatory home-and community-based personal assistance services benefit under Medicaid.

Abstract Personal assistance services (PAS) are essential for many people of all ages with significant disabilities, but these services are not always available to individuals at home or in the community, in large part due to a significant bias toward institutions in the Medicaid program. This study aims to provide an estimate of the expense of a mandatory personal assistance services (PAS) benefit under Medicaid for persons with low incomes, low assets, and significant disability. Design and methods: We use year 2003 data from the Survey of Income and Program Participation to estimate the number of people living in households who would be eligible, based on having an institutional level of need and meeting financial criteria for low income and low assets, combined with additional survey data on annual expenditures under Medicaid programs providing PAS. Results: New expenditures for PAS are estimated to be $1.4–$3.7 billion per year (in 2006 dollars), depending on the rate of participation, for up to half...
Using modified lesson study with mathematics post-graduate teaching assistants

This paper describes an effort on the part of seven post-graduate instructors, or teaching assistants (TAs), to work together to develop, implement and critique two lessons for a Calculus I course. The TAs were asked to develop lessons for a fifty minute Calculus I class on topics of their choice. As a group, the TAs decided to focus their lessons on procedural topics instead of conceptual ones. One TA was chosen at random to teach the group-developed lessons during a calculus class while the other TAs observed. Upon teaching and observing each lesson, TAs were asked to provide a short reflective statement about what they saw during the lesson and about the overall experience of planning the lesson and either implementing or observing it. Their written responses were analyzed using an open and axial coding method (Corbin & Strauss, 2008). A preliminary analysis reveals the reflections of the TAs be focused superficially, supporting previous work on K12 pre-service teacher reflective abilities. TAs can be considered pre-service faculty with the same low level of reflective abilities.
High Resolution Autoradiographic Imaging of Brain Activity Patterns with 2-Deoxyglucose: Regional Topographic and Cellular Analysis

The original 2-deoxyglucose (2-DG) technique introduced by Sokoloff et al. was a major advance in assessment of regional glucose metabolism. However, for the study of small rodent brains, the resolution of the method is not optimal. Methods were developed in our laboratory that substantially improve regional-topographic resolution and also allow assessment of 2-DG uptake at the cellular level. To obtain high resolution at the regional level, 10 um cryostat sections are thaw mounted directly onto high resolution x-ray film (Kodak SR-5 Industrex). To achieve cellular resolution, 4 um sections are freeze dried and dry-mounted onto microscope slides coated with Kodak NTB-3 autoradiography emulsion. Using these techniques, a number of discoveries have been made. For example, dramatic differences were found in the topography of 14C-2-DG and 14C-glucose uptake in the hippocampal formation. With the dry-mount technique, a sub-population of glial cells throughout the brain were found to exhibit very high accumulation of 3H-2-DG. In addition, a group of neurons exhibiting exceptionally great metabolic activity was identified in the brainstem reticular formation. In contrast to conventional concepts, we have found that survival times as short as 5 min after i.v. injection of 2-DG can be used to assess brain activity patterns in time-limited behavioral states, such as swimming behavior and electrically-induced seizure activity in rats. The innovations developed expand the utility and potential of imaging brain activity patterns with radiolabeled 2-DG.
Basic Mechanisms of Ventricular Fibrillation and Defibrillation

Recordings made simultaneously from many electrodes placed on and in the hearts of animals have provided much new information about the basic principles of ventricular fibrillation and defibrillation. The findings are listed below. Fibrillation is maintained predominantly by wandering wavelet reentry and secondarily by repeating spiral rotor reentry. Activation sequences become more organized after 1 min of fibrillation than during the first few seconds of fibrillation and become less organized again after 5 min of fibrillation. Earliest activation following a shock slightly lower in strength than needed to defibrillate (a subthreshold defibrillation shock) occur in those cardiac regions in which the potential gradients generated by the shock are weakest. Activation fronts after subthreshold shocks are not continuations of activation fronts present just before the shock. An upper limit exists to the stength of shocks that induce fibrillation when given during the “vulnerable period” of regular rhythm. This upper limit of vulnerability correlates with and is similar in strength to the defibrillation threshold. To defibrillate, a shock must halt the activation fronts of fibrillation without giving rise to new activation fronts that reinduce fibrillation.The response to shocks during regular rhythm just below the upper limit of vulnerability is similar to the response to subthreshold defibrillation shocks. Shocks during regular rhythm initiate rotors of reentrant activation leading to fibrillation when a critical point is formed at which a certain critical value of shock potential gradient field strength intersects a certain critical degree of myocardial refractoriness. This critical point may explain the existence of the upper limit of vulnerability. The critical point may also partially explain the finding that the relationship between shock strength and the success of the shock in halting fibrillation is better represented by a probability function rather than by a discrete threshold value. Very high potential gradients, approximately an order of magnitude greater than needed for defibrillation, have detrimental effects on the heart, including conduction block, induction of arrhythmias, decreased wall motion, and tissue necrosis. Biphasic waveforms are superior to monophasic waveforms for defibrillation because they require a lower potential gradient to halt fibrillation activation fronts and require a higher potential gradient to cause detrimental effects. These results suggest that, for defibrillation, the best shock waveform is biphasic and the best electrode configuration is the one that creates a certain minimum potential gradient throughout the ventricles with the smallest strength shock.
Detecting unauthorised information flows using points-to analysis

This article describes how standard static program analysis techniques for object-oriented programming languages can be used to detect potential information flow violations in object-oriented programs. We focus on points-to analysis and show how the security properties of confidentiality and integrity can be expressed using the points-to information. This article reviews the literature related to points-to analysis and program level information flow security and describes the key steps necessary to conduct a security analysis using points-to information. The authors also outline the challenges and solutions to scale these analyses to large code-bases like the Java Development Kit [JDK (Java and JDK are registered trademarks of Oracle and/or its affiliates. Other names may be trademarks of their respective owners)].
Treatment and prevention of urethral diverticulum after hypospadias repair

Objective To study the etiology of urethral diverticulum after hypospadias repair and find a better and reasonable treatment for it.Methods The clinical data of 866 patients with ure- thral diverticula after hypospadias repair between 2002 and 2005 were retrospectively reviewed.The methods of primary hypospadias repairs,and the timing,symptoms,site and operative findings of u- rethral diverticula were analyzed.Results There were 866 patients who were treated as primary hypo- spadias.The types of hypospadias repairs included Duckett 546(Duckett+Duplay 98),Onlay 210 and Snodgrass 71.Fifty patients complicated with urethral diverticulum after Duckett repair and under- went diverticulectomy and urethroplasty,were followed up at least 6 month.Forty-five cases cured and 2 developed fistulas,two developed diverticulum and one developed stricture.Conclusions Diver- ticulectomy and urethroplasty are the effective methods for urethral diverticulum.Avoiding excessive tissue separation and urethral stenosis may reduce the development of urethral diverticulum.
Analysis of the overweight & obesity condition and influencing factors among adult residences aged above 18 years old in Jiangxi Province

Objective To learn the overweight and obesity prevalence and related influencing factors among urban and rural residents who are over 18 years old in Jiangxi Province,and to provide references for overweight and obesity prevention. Methods A total of 3000 residents aged 18 years and above were selected by using multi-stage stratified cluster sampling method,and the date was analyzed by unconditional logistic regression. Results The overweight rate among 3000 residents was 25. 90%,and the standardized rate was 25. 09%. Male residents had higher overweight rate than that in female( 28. 36%,23. 64%). The overweight rates among urban and rural residents aged 18 years old and above were 29. 17% and 23. 72%,respectively. The obesity rate was 8. 13%,and the standardized rate was 7. 94%. The obesity rate among male and female residents were 9. 06% and 7. 28%,meanwhile,10. 33% and 6. 67% among urban and rural residents who are over 18 years old,respectively. Multifactor analysis showed that over intake of Vegetable oil was risk factor of overweight and obesity( OR = 1. 43,95% CI: 1. 21- 1. 69),while regular physical exercise was a protective factor( OR = 0. 65,95% CI: 0. 42- 0. 78). Conclusion The overweight and obesity prevalence are high among rural and urban residences in Jiangxi Province. Comprehensive measures including proper diet,physical exercise,healthy life style etc should be strengthened for overweight and obesity prevention and control.
Application of self-tuning High-fidelity Dynamic Simulation model for Soft-sensing.

Abstract Dynamic simulation has been in vogue for more than three decades and effectively used by process industries for operator training and design studies. Advancement in hardware and software systems has enabled easy development of rigorous simulation models, which can be used from design stage to operation stage, along with on-line application like soft sensing, to augment existing process measurements. A high fidelity dynamic simulation model connected to plant data historian can effectively be used to predict important process, which is otherwise not physically measured in the plant because of complex, infeasible or costly instrumentation requirements. The model can also estimate key equipment and process performance indicators like thermal efficiency, catalyst activity and drivers performance, which can be archived in historian system and used in plant performance dashboards. Online soft sensing thus provides a cost-effective alternative for physical measurement in non-critical sections, where requirements are not as stringent as main process plant. This paper applies the concept of soft sensing in a utility unit, using high fidelity model developed on DYNSIM™, a commercial dynamic simulator offered by SimSci-Esscor.
A grammar of ǂHȍã

The language described in this book is remarkable in a number of ways. ǂHȍa may have one of the world’s most complex phoneme inventories, with five basic release positions for velaric airstream con...
Cytoprotective pathways in the vascular endothelium. Do they represent a viable therapeutic target

The vascular endothelium is a critical interface, which separates the organs from the blood and its contents. The endothelium has a wide variety of functions and maintenance of endothelial homeostasis is a multi-dimensional active process, disruption of which has potentially deleterious consequences if not reversed. Vascular injury predisposes to endothelial apoptosis, dysfunction and development of atherosclerosis. Endothelial dysfunction is an end-point, a central feature of which is increased ROS generation, a reduction in endothelial nitric oxide synthase and increased nitric oxide consumption. A dysfunctional endothelium is a common feature of diseases including rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, diabetes mellitus and chronic renal impairment. The endothelium is endowed with a variety of constitutive and inducible mechanisms that act to minimise injury and facilitate repair. Endothelial cytoprotection can be enhanced by exogenous factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor, prostacyclin and laminar shear stress. Target genes include endothelial nitric oxide synthase, heme oxygenase-1, A20 and anti-apoptotic members of the B cell lymphoma protein-2 family. In light of the importance of endothelial function, and the link between its disruption and the risk of atherothrombosis, interest has focused on therapeutic conditioning and reversal of endothelial dysfunction. A detailed understanding of cytoprotective signalling pathways, their regulation and target genes is now required to identify novel therapeutic targets. The ultimate aim is to add vasculoprotection to current therapeutic strategies for systemic inflammatory diseases, in an attempt to reduce vascular injury and prevent or retard atherogenesis.
Volumetric flame synthesis of mixed tungsten–molybdenum oxide nanostructures

Abstract Mixed-metal (Mo/W) oxide nanostructures were synthesized volumetrically in the oxygen-rich zone of a counter-flow diffusion flame. High purity Mo and W wires were used to generate Mo and W oxide vapors that are transformed into mixed-metal oxide nanostructures while transported by the gas flow in the upward direction toward the stagnation plane. The Mo wire was inserted in a lower position within the flame volume than the W wire. Samples of generated nanomaterials collected thermophoretically from the flame volume at various axial positions allowed tracing of the particle evolution. The following synthesis stages were identified. MoO 3 structures are first formed in the lower part of the flame. As they are carried by the gas flow, W oxide vapors deposit on the surfaces of the early formed MoO 3 nanostructures. W atoms diffuse at the interfaces of the MoO 3 structures to form mixed W–Mo oxide nanoparticles. Fully grown structures, collected near the stagnation plane (SP), are nanocubes exhibiting well-defined edges with sizes less than 100 nm. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy elemental mapping revealed that the mature structures have uniform distribution of W, Mo, and O atoms. The measured lattice spacing showed expanded lattice distance of MoO 3 which may be attributed to the incorporation of W atoms in the MoO 3 crystal and formation of W–Mo oxide structures.
(2Z,3E)-2-{[1-(4-Chloro-benz-yl)-1H-indol-3-yl]methyl-idene}quinuclidin-3-one oxime.

In the title compound, C23H22ClN3O, the benzene ring of the 4-chorobenzyl group makes a dihedral angle of 78.56 (6)° with the best plane of the indole ring. The double bond connecting the aza­bicyclic and indole groups adopts a Z geometry. The geometry adopted by the C=N bond with respect to the N—OH bond is trans. The absolute configuration of the compound was determined from refinement of the Flack parameter.
Serial Galactose-Deficient IgA1 Levels in Children with IgA Nephropathy and Healthy Controls.

Galactose-deficient IgA1 (Gd-IgA1) is a key pathogenic factor for IgA nephropathy (IgAN) and a potential biomarker for the disease. This study examined serial serum Gd-IgA1 levels over 1 year in 13 children with IgAN and 40 healthy children, to determine whether or not serum Gd-IgA1 levels changed over time. Subjects were younger than 18 years of age. Follow-up measurements were scheduled 6 and/or 12 months later. Analysis of variance and regression models for repeated measures were used to estimate group and time effects. Serum Gd-IgA1 level was higher in initial samples for IgAN patients compared to those of healthy children . Serum Gd-IgA1 levels did not change over time for healthy controls but increased for IgAN patients . Serum Gd-IgA1 level was elevated for 9 children with IgAN at study entry and remained elevated. Two of the 4 IgAN patients with initially normal Gd-IgA1 levels had a subsequent elevated level. The persistent elevation of the serum Gd-IgA1 level in children with IgAN enhances its utility as a potential diagnostic test for IgAN.
Ontogeny of Adrenergic and Opioid Effects on Separation Vocalizations in Rats

Altricial mammals are capable of forming a variety of associations and relationships which allow the infant to recognize home and caretaker (Brake, 1981; Johanson & Hall, 1979; Kehoe & Blass, 1986a, 1986b; Pedersen, Williams, & Blass, 1982; Rudy & Cheatle, 1979; Smith & Spear, 1978). These learned affectional relationships are of great significance to the infant’s survival and perhaps for adult motivated behaviors, as seen, for example, in males’ reproductive behavior depending on postnatal olfactory experience (Fillion & Blass, 1986). Recent studies have investigated the central mechanisms that might underlie the development of such important relationships and emotions (Kehoe & Blass, 1986b, 1986c, 1986d, 1986e; Panksepp, 1981; Panksepp, Siviy, & Normansell, 1985; Spear, Enters, Aswad, & Louzan, 1985). Exploration of the neurobiology mediating the ontogeny of affective behavior may lead to an understanding of infant responsivity, adult motivated behaviors and possibly anxiety disorders. Mammalian infant separation from parents and siblings evokes a quantifiable emotional response, namely, vocalizations. Neonatal rats under various social and thermal conditions emit ultrasonic cries in the range of 30–50 KHz which is well beyond the range of human hearing (Allin & Banks, 1972; Noirot, 1972).
Assessment of Visual-Motor Skills

The neuropsychological assessment of visual-motor functioning often seems to be a simple matter to the novice. One has the patient copy or recall a few simple line drawings or block or stick constructions, and the quality of these is compared to some objective standard for accuracy, speed, and/or quality of performance. The processes underlying these seemingly simple behaviors are, however, very complex. The variety of apraxias and agnosias known to clinical neurologists and neuropsychologists attests to the numerous ways in which voluntary action and perception may be impaired. The whole cerebral cortex must be mobilized in an integrated fashion to smoothly complete drawing, construction, and/or perceptual processes routinely (Luria, 1966, 1973). It is only after long practice through a childhood developmental sequence that these processes become automatized and hence seemingly simple to the adult with normal brain functioning, in whom they have become overlearned.
The Writing Program Administrator as Interstitial Radical

Drawing upon personal experience as a writing program administrator at a research university, and marshaling a body of critical scholarship that examines how neoliberal ideology in the academy might be opposed, the author discusses interstitial resistance in the form of a curricular alternative--namely, the outsider genre of zines. Because zines typically embody a "worldview dramatically at odds with the [one] cultivated and reinforced by institutions of higher education," zines offer students an alternative point of view not usually found in standard writing curricula. While the author uses zines as a central illustration, the purpose here is to encourage readers to find the "cracks and fissures" in their own institutions so that the insinuations of neoliberal policies might be resisted through teaching and administrative initiatives.
Chemotherapy scheduling template development using an optimization approach

The purpose of this paper is to develop a chemotherapy scheduling template that accounts for nurse resource availability and patient treatment needs to alleviate the mid-day patient load and provide quality services for patients.,Owing to treatment complexity in chemotherapy administration, nurses are required at the beginning, end and during treatment. When nurses are not available to continue treatment, the service is compromised, and the resource constraint is violated, which leads to inevitable delay that risks service quality. Consequently, an optimization method is used to create a scheduling template that minimizes the violation between resource assignment and treatment requirements, while leveling patient load throughout a day. A case study from a typical clinic day is presented to understand current scheduling issues, describe nursing resource constraints, and develop a constraint-based optimization model and leveling algorithm for the final template.,The approach is expected to reduce the variation in the system by 24 percent and result in five fewer chemo chairs used during peak hours. Adjusting staffing levels could further reduce resource constraint violations and more savings on chair occupancy. The actual implementation results indicate a 33 percent reduction on resource constraint violations and positive feedback from nursing staff for workload.,Other delays, including laboratory test, physician visit and treatment assignment, are potential research areas.,The study demonstrates significant improvement in mid-day patient load and meeting treatment needs using optimization with a unique objective.
An Overview of the Theses and Dissertations Completed in Family and Consumer Sciences: 2001

This article summarizes the 451 titles of theses and dissertations completed in family and consumer sciences in colleges and universities from all four regions of the United States in 2001. The tables represent the information by reporting institution and by subject matter.
'Roth' and Traditional Tax-Deferred Investing: Asset Location, Conversion and Re-Characterization Options

In this project the principal investigators plan to explore the impact of Roth IRA investing upon optimal asset location as well as the value of various types of tax-deferred wealth. The interest in Roth IRAs is likely to accelerate with the elimination next year of income caps that currently prevent high income investors (many of whom have substantial tax-deferred balances) from converting to the Roth form. A key feature associated with the conversion option to convert a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA is the “re-characterization” option that allows the investor to reverse his conversion until his tax filing deadline during the following year (which is as long as 21.5 months), creating strong incentives to hold very volatile investments in situations subject to the potential for re-characterization. This is in sharp contrast with the traditional advice associated with tax-deferred investing, i.e., to hold high-yields assets in tax-deferred account. Our work will link the exercise of the re-characterization option to past performance as the investor will optimally re-characterize all but the strongest performing accounts since conversion. Under some circumstances (for example, if the option is far out-of-the-money) it would be optimal to exercise the re-characterization option prior to its maturity in order to lengthen the subsequent conversion option. We plan to analyze this compound option and characterize the optimal exercise boundary as a function of time and the extent of appreciation or depreciation since conversion. The ability to re-characterize highlights the centrality of the conversion option by making it optimal for the investor to always convert, as the investor can re-characterize as needed. This work builds from and contrasts with earlier research that addressed issues involving taxable and tax-deferred investing simultaneously, but which did not distinguish between Roth and traditional tax-deferred investing.
Design of GaN based ultra-high efficiency, high power density resonant Dickson converter for high voltage step-down ratio

In the realm of power conversion, Dickson type and other switched capacitor converters (SCCs) offer numerous advantages such as ease of control, bidirectional operation, high power density and high efficiency. However, it finds limited use in high voltage (over 250 V) and high step-down ratio (typically over 8) systems. At higher voltage gains, SCCs require many floating switches and capacitors. This leads to increased system losses and lower overall power density. This paper addresses some of the key design challenges in a GaN based resonant Dickson converter to achieve high efficiency and power density at high-voltage gains. Design revolves around delivering the key benefits of GaN switches at a system level. These include optimal topology and switch selection, design of a compact and high-efficiency gate drive, minimization of different loss components and passive component design. A 300 W, 280 V/28 V resonant Dickson converter prototype is built and experimentally validated. Such a converter is suitable for deriving the low-voltage 28 V bus required in more-electric aircrafts. A peak efficiency of 99.1% with a power density of 87 W/in3 is achieved for the said prototype
Chapter 4 – Mitochondrial Physiology

Mitochondria generate 90% of the energy within a cell in the form of adenosine triphosphate by oxidative phosphorylation, thus earning them the title of “powerhouse of the cell.” The process of oxidative phosphorylation from the respiratory or electron transport chain activity was first reported by Kennedy and Lehninger. Energy production, however, is just one of many roles orchestrated by mitochondria. Mitochondria are the only organelle outside the nucleus with a discrete pool of DNA (mitochondrial DNA, or mtDNA). This distinction lead to the accepted theory of an endosymbiotic origin of mitochondria, in which an α-proteobacteria took up a commensal residence within a eukaryotic cell, with more recent evidence of co-evolution of an extant eukaryotic cell.
Total Synthesis of Benzofuran-Based Aspergillusene B via Halogenative Aromatization of Enones

A novel “non-aromatic pool” synthetic strategy for the synthesis of benzofuran-based natural products via oxidative haloaromatization of enones is reported. This approach is successfully applied in...
Comparison of effects and cost of two intravenous infusion routes in very low birth weight infants

Objective To explore the effect and cost comparison of two intravenous infusion routes in very low birth weight infants. Methods A total of 80 cases of children with very low birth weight from June 2014 to June 2015 were selected as the control group, and 80 children patients with low birth weight from July 2015 to July 2016 were selected as the observation group.The control group was treated with peripheral venous catheter infusion (PIV). The observation group was treated with peripheral venous catheter infusion(PICC). The transfusion effect and costs were compared. Results The body weight of the observation group was higher than that of the control group at first week, second week, third week and fourth week, and the differences were statistically significant(P 0.05). The cost-effectiveness ratio of the observation group was lower than that of the control group, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). Conclusion PICC is effective compared with PIV in extremely low birth weight which can effectively promote the growth of body weight, reduce the incidence of complications and the monthly cost and improve the cost-effectiveness ratio. Key words: Intravenous infusion route; Very low birth weight; Effect; Cost
Clinical trial of proton craniospinal irradiation for leptomeningeal metastases.

Background Leptomeningeal metastases (LM) are associated with limited survival and treatment options. While involved-field radiotherapy is effective for local palliation, it lacks durability. We evaluated the toxicities of proton craniospinal irradiation (CSI), a treatment encompassing the entire central nervous system (CNS) compartment, for patients with LM from solid tumors. Methods We enrolled patients with LM to receive hypofractionated proton CSI in this phase I prospective trial. The primary endpoint was to describe treatment-related toxicity, with dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) defined as any radiation-related grade 3 non-hematologic toxicity or grade 4 hematologic toxicity according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events that occurred during or within 4 weeks of completion of proton CSI. Secondary endpoints included CNS progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Results We enrolled 24 patients between June 2018 and April 2019. Their median follow-up was 11 months. Twenty patients were evaluable for protocol treatment-related toxicities and 21 for CNS PFS and OS. Two patients in the dose expansion cohort experienced DLTs consisted of grade 4 lymphopenia, grade 4 thrombocytopenia, and/or grade 3 fatigue. All DLTs resolved without medical intervention. The median CNS PFS was 7 months (95% CI: 5-13) and the median OS was 8 months (95% CI: 6 to not reached). Four patients (19%) were progression-free in the CNS for more than 12 months. Conclusion Hypofractionated proton CSI using proton therapy is a safe treatment for patients with LM from solid tumors. We saw durable disease control in some patients.
Desquamative Inflammatory Vaginitis as an Extraintestinal Manifestation of Crohn’s Disease

To report the association between desquamative inflammatory vaginitis and Crohn’s disease in 4 women. Extraintestinal manifestations of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are a result of a complex interplay of multiple factors and these may or may not follow an independent course. Vulvar sequelae of Crohn’s disease have been described in the literature, but the impact of IBD on vaginal health is not well known. In all 4 patients, Crohn’s disease diagnosis was known to the patients, all of whom were managed by experienced gastroenterologists. However, the association of vaginal syndrome with IBD was not recognized by gynecologic or gastroenterology specialists. Successful management of DIV is unlikely until the bowel inflammatory process is adequately treated.
Evaluating diffusion and the thermodynamic factor for binary ionic mixtures

Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations are a powerful tool for the calculation of transport properties in mixtures. Not only are MD simulations capable of treating multicomponent systems, they are also applicable over a wide range of temperatures and densities. In plasma physics, this is particularly important for applications such as inertial confinement fusion. While many studies have focused on the effect of plasma coupling on transport properties, here we focus on the effects of mixing. We compute the thermodynamic factor, a measure of ideal/non-ideal mixing, for three binary ionic mixtures. We consider mixtures of hydrogen and carbon, hydrogen and argon, and argon and carbon, each at 500 randomly generated state points in the warm dense matter and plasma regimes. The calculated thermodynamic factors indicate different mixing behavior across phase space, which can significantly affect the corresponding mutual diffusion coefficients. As MD simulations are still computationally expensive, we apply modern data science tools to predict the thermodynamic factor over a large phase space. Further, we propose a more accurate approximation to the mutual diffusion coefficient than the commonly applied Darken relation.
Textbook Alternative Incentive Programs at U.S. Universities: A Review of the Literature

Objective – This article reviews current literature on incentive grant programs for textbook alternatives at universities and their libraries. Of particular interest in this review are common patterns and factors in the design, development, and implementation of these initiatives at the programmatic level, trends in the results of assessment of programs, and unique elements of certain institutions’ programs. Methods – The review was limited in scope to studies in scholarly and professional publications of textbook alternative incentive programs at universities within the United States of America, published within ten years prior to the investigation. A comprehensive literature search was conducted and then subjected to analysis for trends and patterns. Results – Studies of these types of programs have reported substantial total cost savings to affected students compared to the relatively small financial investments that are required to establish them. The majority of incentive programs were led by university libraries, although the most successful efforts appear to have been broadly collaborative in nature. Programs are well-regarded by students and faculty, with benefits to pedagogy and access to materials beyond the cost savings to students. The field of replacing textbooks with alternatives is still evolving, however, and the required investment of faculty time and effort is still a barrier, while inconsistent approaches to impact measurement make it difficult to compare programs or establish best practices. Conclusion – Overall, the literature shows evidence of significant benefits from incentive programs at a relatively low cost. Furthermore, these programs are opportunities to establish cross-campus partnerships and collaborations, and collaboration seems to be effective at helping to reduce barriers and increase impact. Further research is needed on similar programs at community colleges and at higher education institutions internationally.
Evidence for increased thermogenesis in female C57BL/6J mice housed aboard the international space station

Sixteen-week-old female C57BL/6J mice were sacrificed aboard the International Space Station after 37 days of flight (RR-1 mission) and frozen carcasses returned to Earth. RNA was isolated from interscapular brown adipose tissue (BAT) and gonadal white adipose tissue (WAT). Spaceflight resulted in differential expression of genes in BAT consistent with increased non-shivering thermogenesis and differential expression of genes in WAT consistent with increased glucose uptake and metabolism, adipogenesis, and β-oxidation.
The healthcare environment: a medical and a public health challenge

Abstract The concept of sleep health is elusive with countless people perceiving themselves as sleeping too much or too little or not having sufficiently restful sleep. In our rapidly changing world, exposures to disruptors of sleep are ever increasing: exposure to light at night in urban environments, noise, and the sleep-disrupting distraction of mobile phones. For many people, shift work and travel across multiple time zones also contribute to poor sleep. Not surprisingly, sleepiness is common as is difficulty in sleeping satisfactorily. Additionally, there are medically recognized disorders that disturb sleep, most prominently, insufficient sleep, insomnia, and obstructive sleep apnea. This chapter addresses the healthcare system’s response to problems with sleep, focusing on the broad range of sleep problems that are considered as having adverse consequences. The chapter will provide an overview of the intersection between the healthcare system and sleep health. It covers the range of practitioners, products, and approaches to managing the main sleep problems. The public health response is also addressed. Readers will gain a broad understanding of how people manage their problems with sleep.
Community physician's role in case management of children with chronic illnesses.

There is general agreement that case management should be provided to children with chronic illnesses, yet it is not clear who should provide this service. A survey of physicians and parents of children with chronic illnesses was conducted to evaluate the practice and views of pediatricians and compare their assessments with those of parents. Surveys were mailed to 360 physicians and 519 families with response rates of 39% and 63%, respectively. The majority of physicians (74%) thought that the primary care physician should provide case management. When compared with parents, physicians underestimated the parental need for information about the child9s diagnosis (8% vs 52%, P
Application of scanning microscopy in the study of virus transmission of aphids.

The scanning electron microscope was used in conjunction with the transmission electron microscope to study stylet morphology and the role of stylets of the green peach aphid in plant virus transmission. The morphology of the stylets generally agreed with earlier descriptions of these parts obtained with the transmission electron microscopy. A considerable variation seemed to exist in the extent and regularity of ridges observed in different individuals, especially among apterous adults and nymphs. Surface contamination of stylets as well as of the bristle area of the labium could be detected. The possible role of these contaminants in plant virus transmission is discussed. Working near the limit of resolution of the scanning electron microscope, visualization of two types of plant virus particles was attempted. Dipping aphid stylets in suspensions of purified virus did not lead to subsequent detection of these particles on the stylets with the scanning electron microscope. The scanning microscope is evaluated for its possibilities in the study of plant virus transmission by insects. Images
CVC: A Cooperating Validity Checker

Decision procedures for decidable logics and logical theories have proven to be useful tools in verification. This paper describes the CVC ("Cooperating Validity Checker") decision procedure. CVC implements a framework for combining subsidiary decision procedures for certain logical theories into a decision procedure for the theories' union. Subsidiary decision procedures for theories of arrays, inductive datatypes, and linear real arithmetic are currently implemented. Other notable features of CVC are the incorporation of the high-performance Chaff solver for propositional reasoning, and the ability to produce independently checkable proofs for valid formulas.
Computer experiments for optimal FMVSS 208 and NCAP performance

A design strategy to simultaneously address the interaction of two restraint systems (airbag and belt) and two test conditions (FMVSS 208 and NCAP) was investigated. This design strategy was implemented using a math-based methodology for a midsize car passenger side restraint system. A number of airbag and safety belt design variables were examined and optimized resulting in improved NCAP performance for the midsize car used in the simulations. The result of this study shows that this math-based methodology could be used to project the potential performance of restraint systems for future vehicle programs. As is the usual recommended procedure for math-based results of highly complex nonlinear mechanical analyses of the type under consideration herein, test validation should be carried out prior to implementation of specific results in a production program.
Transitive Signature Schemes

We introduce and provide the first example of a transitive digital signature scheme. Informally, this is a way to digitally sign vertices and edges of a dynamically growing, transitively closed, graph G so as to guarantee the following properties: - Given the signatures of edges (u, v) and (v, w), anyone can easily derive the digital signature of the edge (u, w). - It is computationaly hard for any adversary to forge the digital signature of any new vertex or other edge of G, even if he can request the legitimate signer to digitally sign any number of G's vertices and edges of his choice in an adaptive fashion (i.e., even if he can choose which vertices and edges the legitimate signer should sign next after he sees the legitimate signatures of the ones requested so far).