cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Countercurrent gas‐liquid annular flow, including the flooding state

The structure of the wavy interface on a falling liquid film is studied for conditions of countercurrent gas flow in order to investigate mechanisms for flooding. Measurements taken just below the liquid feed and at 1.7 m down the tube show that under all conditions, including flooding, the waves propagate only downward and are never of such amplitude as to bridge the tube. These observations are in contrast to speculations in the literature that upward flow of waves or bridging of liquid due to waves cause flooding. In the mechanism suggested, flooding is due to flow reversal in the film just at the liquid entry.
Will blocking the platelet save the diabetic

Diabetic patients with atherosclerotic heart disease are more likely to develop complications, whether treated medically, surgically, or with interventional techniques. Among the risks diabetics face is an apparent increase in restenosis after coronary stenting. This issue is addressed in this issue of Circulation by Marso et al.1 They suggest that although use of the IIb/IIIa antibody fragment abciximab will not solve the restenosis problem for patients undergoing balloon angioplasty or for patients without diabetes mellitus undergoing stenting, its use does in fact reduce the indices of restenosis in diabetic patients undergoing stenting. This finding, if corroborated, will have a significant impact on the medical care of diabetic patients. In recent years, enthusiasm for performing interventional procedures in patients with diabetes has decreased, especially if those patients have multivessel disease. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute–sponsored multicenter randomized trial comparing coronary angioplasty with bypass surgery (the Bypass Angioplasty Revascularization Investigation [BARI]) clearly demonstrated that patients randomized to surgery had a superior survival rate at 5 years compared with patients randomized to angioplasty.2 The Emory Angioplasty vs Surgery Trial, which initially showed no difference in a smaller cohort, now at 8 years shows the same trend as the BARI trial.3 Analysis of the survival curves in these trials leads to the conclusion that much more than simply early restenosis after angioplasty is responsible for this difference. Events continue to occur over many years, undoubtedly reflecting the development and progression of new lesions. Diabetic patients followed up in observational databases also had reduced survival after interventional procedures. This difference is much weaker than in the randomized trials but is borne out in the BARI registry4 and in a large database from Emory University Hospital.5 Most of these trials and the observational studies were performed with balloon angioplasty …
Vulnerability of water supply from the Oregon Cascades to changing climate: linking science to users and policy

Despite improvements in understanding biophysical response to climate change, a better understanding of how such changes will affect societies is still needed. We evaluated effects of climate change on the coupled human–environmental system of the McKenzie River watershed in the Oregon Cascades in order to assess its vulnerability. Published empirical and modeling results indicate that climate change will alter both the timing and quantity of streamflow, but understanding how these changes will impact different water users is essential to facilitate adaptation to changing conditions. In order to better understand the vulnerability of four water use sectors to changing streamflow, we conducted a series of semi-structured interviews with representatives of each sector, in which we presented projected changes in streamflow and asked respondents to assess how changing water availability would impact their activities. In the McKenzie River watershed, there are distinct spatial and temporal patterns associated with sensitivity of water resources to climate change. This research illustrates that the implications of changing streamflow vary substantially among different water users, with vulnerabilities being determined in part by the spatial scale and timing of water use and the flexibility of those uses in time and space. Furthermore, institutions within some sectors were found to be better positioned to effectively respond to changes in water resources associated with climate change, while others have substantial barriers to the flexibility needed to manage for new conditions. A clearer understanding of these opportunities and constraints across water use sectors can provide a basis for improving response capacity and potentially reducing vulnerability to changing water resources in the region.
Vaporization as a smokeless cannabis delivery system: a pilot study.

Although cannabis may have potential therapeutic value, inhalation of a combustion product is an undesirable delivery system. The aim of the study was to investigate vaporization using the Volcano® device as an alternative means of delivery of inhaled Cannabis sativa. Eighteen healthy inpatient subjects enrolled to compare the delivery of cannabinoids by vaporization to marijuana smoked in a standard cigarette. One strength (1.7, 3.4, or 6.8% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)) and delivery system was randomly assigned for each of the 6 study days. Plasma concentrations of Δ-9-THC, expired carbon monoxide (CO), physiologic and neuropsychologic effects were the main outcome measures. Peak plasma concentrations and 6-h area under the plasma concentration–time curve of THC were similar. CO levels were reduced with vaporization. No adverse events occurred. Vaporization of cannabis is a safe and effective mode of delivery of THC. Further trials of clinical effectiveness of cannabis could utilize vaporization as a smokeless delivery system. Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics (2007) 82, 572–578; doi:10.1038/sj.clpt.6100200; published online 11 April 2007
A Highly Efficient Parallel Algorithm for H.264 Video Encoder

In this paper, a highly efficient parallel algorithm of H.264 encoder is proposed. This algorithm fully exploits all data dependencies for maximal compression and the best reconstructed quality. Furthermore, this new method achieves the optimal compression at a frame rate that increases approximately linearly as the number of parallel processing elements (Z. Zhao and P. Liang). Both the encoding speed and compression efficiency are improved compared to previous approaches. This paper also gives the relation between the number of parallel processing elements and the theoretical encoding time and the relation between the number of processors and the number of concurrently processed frames. Our simulation results show that this algorithm can also achieve the optimal encoding quality as a sequential processing encoder provided by Joint Video Team (JVT)
Characterizing Indoor Wireless Channels via Ray Tracing, and Validation via Measurements

We investigate the reliability of radio channel simulators in capturing the important properties of radio channels throughout a well-specified environment. Indoor environments for which the geometric layout and material properties of surfaces are known lend themselves to such site-specific simulation. Our aim is to assess the performance of this approach by comparing its predictions with measurements in a specific environment. The measurements are made on 18 paths in the ORBIT Laboratory of Rutgers University's WINLAB; and the simulator we use is the WiSE ray-tracing tool developed by Bell Labs. The comparisons are made for three parameters that largely characterize a radio path's behavior: Path loss; Ricean K-factor; and RMS delay spread. The measurements are made over a 1-GHz bandwidth centered on 3.5 GHz. The comparisons show good agreement over the set of paths measured and simulated, establishing confidence that a well-designed radio simulator can be used reliably in system studies.
Comments on "Asymptotic waveform evaluation for timing analysis

For the original article see ibid., vol.9, no.4, p.352-66 (1990). The commenter notes that in the above-titled paper L. Pillage and R. Rohrer employ the moment-matching technique to provide different models of different accuracies for a given linear network, the general form of which is often referred to as the Pade approximation. He briefly points out the shortcomings of the Pade approximation and provides a bibliography that documents the developments of model reduction techniques in control theory and econometrics. These developments are of interest to practitioners in waveform estimation. >
Single suture iris-to-capsulorhexis fixation for in-the-bag intraocular lens subluxation.

We present a simplified modification to a technique for early or mild in-the-bag subluxation that avoids conjunctival and scleral incisions and minimizes intraocular manipulation. While the capsulorhexis edge is grasped with an intraocular forceps to stabilize the IOL–capsular bag complex, a 10-0 polypropylene suture on a long curved needle is used to secure the fibrotic superior capsulorhexis edge to the midperipheral iris at 12 o'clock using a combination of a modified McCannel suture and a Siepser sliding knot. Financial Disclosure Dr. Condon receives speaker and consultant fees from Alcon Surgical, Inc., Allergan, Inc., and Microsurgical Technology. Although the Microsurgical Technology Condon snare instrument is named after him, Dr. Condon reports no patents, fees, or payments related to it. Dr. Siegel has no financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in Brantley, Glynn and McIntosh Counties: Analyzing the 2007 Recession using Aggregate-level Data

Using publicly available aggregate-level data from 1997 to 2010, this report examines SNAP expenditures and participation rates for the US, the state of Georgia and the three counties within the Brunswick, Georgia Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA)-Brantley, Glynn and McIntosh. The purpose is two-fold: to investigate the impact of the 2007 recession on SNAP participation and to analyze longer-termed trends in SNAP participation with an emphasis on notable cross-regional comparisons.
Localization of Instruction as a Right in Education

In this chapter, we will explore the relationship between choice of Language of Instruction (LoI) and quality learning, as well as the implications of this choice for children’s rights in education. We raise the question of why two African countries, Tanzania and Nigeria are disregarding evidence that local LoI is essential for both learning and identity. Our intention is to contribute new perspectives to policy debates concerning language choices in education.
Sequential skill learning and retention effects in volleyball.

Abstract Four required physical education volleyball classes were taught four distinct volleyball skills in varied sequential order. The skills learned were the serve, dig, set-up, and spike. Between- and within-group differences were observed on tests administered on three different occasions throughout the quarter. Immediate and later retention effects due to the order in which the skills were learned when measured yielded a few isolated significant differences, but no pattern was established. It was concluded that the order in which volleyball skills are taught had little bearing on their learning or retention.
Towards a more fault resilient multigrid solver

The effectiveness of sparse, linear solvers is typically studied in terms of their convergence properties and computational complexity, while their ability to handle transient hardware errors, such as bit-flips that lead to silent data corruption (SDC), has received less attention. As supercomputers continue to add more cores to increase performance, they are also becoming more susceptible to SDC. Consequently, understanding the impact of SDC on algorithms and common applications is an important component of solver analysis. In this paper, we investigate algebraic multigrid (AMG) in an environment exposed to corruptions through bit-flips. We propose an algorithmic based detection and recovery scheme that maintains the numerical properties of AMG, while maintaining high convergence rates in this environment. We also introduce a performance model and numerical results in support of the methodology.
Studies on Oxygen Transfer in Submerged Fermentations Part IV

A method of determining oxygen transfer rate in shaken flasks was established. By analyzing the partial pressure of gas-phase oxygen in flasks, oxygen transfer coefficient of cotton plugs k, overall oxygen transfer coeffi-cient across gas-liquid interface KLa and respi-ration rate KrM could be evaluated. Dissolved oxygen measurement was not necessary. This method could be applied to both sulfite solu-tion and biological systems. In the biological systems, especially, the same experiment gave the values of KLa and KrM simultaneously. This method of KrM determination has an advantage of performing in the more ana-logous state to the actual fermentation per-formances than in polarographic procedure. Based on this method, it became evident that oxygen transfer in shaken flasks should be recognized with respect to the overall oxygen transfer coefficient including the diffusibility of both cotton plugs and gas-liquid interface.
The Embryonic Development of Tribolium confusum

The basic embryogeny is described and a chronology of developmental events at 25.5±1°C is presented. The fundamental developmental pattern is not unusual for a beetle. The more notable events and structures include an apparently sperm-filled tubular structure (possibly a micropyle) found on the chorion of some eggs. Peripheral energids of the presumptive blastoderm exhibit annular waves of mitoses. The mesenteron develops from a pair of posterior rudiments. An eosinophilic serosa secretes a thick external cuticle. The well-developed pleuropodia are believed to produce secretions that lyse the serosa and the serosal cuticle. Centrifuged eggs develop, indicating that the embryos have some regulative ability.
Transfusion of Bovine Serum Albumin into Human Beings

SummaryThe intravenous administration of bovine serum albumin to 13 human beings has given encouraging results, inasmuch as no reactions were noted. The blood pressure was maintained at, or rose above, the initial level. Vasodepression was not observed. The significance of these results in relation to the use of bovine serum albumin as a blood substitute in human beings is discussed.
Jesse Jackson and the Dilemmas of a Prophet in Politics

J esse Jackson's charismatic style of leadership is so striking, and so much a part of his political success, that it tends to ob scure a related, but equally important aspect of his activity—his prophetic role. Jackson's leadership may be charismatic in style, but it is prophetic in function. His vibrant personality directs attention to his personal qualities, and so assessments of Jackson tend to focus on his motivation, ego, and competence. Yet any full evaluation must go beyond these personal qualities to in quire into the social functions served by his work. Jackson's ef forts then can be understood as more than the self-promotion of a gifted, charismatic leader. Rather, it is more appropriate to consider him the nation's preeminent prophet-politician. He of fers a vision of how America should be, and plunges into the political arena to initiate the changes which will bring the vision closer to reality. It is his facility at combining the prophet's thoroughgoing critique of current society with the politician's adeptness at maneuvering and negotiation that makes Jackson unique. Jackson's prophetic critique is central to his activity. In the fashion of the biblical prophets, he calls the nation back to its ideals and implores it to create a just society. He appeals to America's traditions and fundamental values, laments the na tion's failure to live up to its ideals, and points the way toward a more just society. His speech before the Democratic national convention in 1984 epitomized his approach: "We are often re minded that we live in a great nation—and we do. But it can be greater still. The Rainbow is mandating a new definition of greatness. We must not measure greatness from the mansion down but from the manger up."1 This was vintage Jackson—a
Effect of Phenobarbital on Expression of Bcl-2 and Bax in Hippocampus of Epileptic Rats

Objective To explore the effect of phenobarbital on the changes of morphology and Bcl-2 and Bax expression in hippocampus of epileptic rats.Methods Totally 84 SD rats around age of 4 weeks were randomly divided into 4 groups:group A was given normal saline(n=18),group B was given phenobarbital(n=18),group C and group D were epileptic groups(24 rats in each group),of which group C was given normal saline after pentylenetetrazol(PTZ),while group D was given phenobarbital after PTZ.A dose of PTZ 60 mg·kg-1·d-1 was intraperitoneally injected into the rats in group C and group D for 5 days contiguously to induce epilepsy.Since the 6th day,the rats in group A and group C were administered intraperitoneally with physiological saline;the rats in group B and group D were administered intraperitoneally with phenobarbital 50 mg·kg-1·d-1.Paraffin sections were stained with HE stain for morphological evaluation,immunohistochemistry technique was used to investigate the expression of the apoptosis regulatory gene Bcl-2 and Bax,on the 9th,the 15th,and the 21st day.Results HE stains consequence:there was no statistical significance between group A and group B of the changes of morphology.Cell swelling,apoptosis cells and death cells increased while cell layers decreased in hippocampus in group C.Compared with group C,there was less apoptosis cell population in group D,but the layers of the cells were increased.Immunohistochemical staining:there were no significant differences at different time points between group A and group B in the expression of Bcl-2 and Bax protein(Pa0.05).There were more expressions of the Bcl-2 on the 9th,15th and 21st day in group C and group D,and it had statistical significance compared with group A and group B(Pa0.05).There were more expression of the Bax on the 9th and 21st day in group C and there was statistical significances compared with the other 3 groups(Pa0.05),as the expression of the Bax in group D increased on 9th day than that in group A and group B(Pa0.05),but became less than group C(P0.05).Conclusions The high expression of Bcl-2 in hippocampus of epileptic rats can be made by PTZ and can last for a long time.Phenobarbital can not increase the expression of Bcl-2.The high expression of Bax in hippocampus of epileptic rats can be made by PTZ but can last for a short time.Phenobarbital can significantly in
Affine Geometry: Incidence with Parallelism (IP)

This brief chapter introduces the notion of parallelism, discusses the two forms of the parallel axiom, defines affine geometry, and proves five elementary theorems relating to intersecting planes and parallel lines.
A Problem-Solving Intervention Using iPads to Improve Transition-Related Task Performance of Students With Autism Spectrum Disorder:

In this study, the effectiveness of teaching problem-solving to improve transition-related task performance of three students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) was examined using a multiple probe...
What Should SMEs do to Succeed in Today's Knowledge-Based Economy?

The shift to a knowledge-based economy results largely from developments in information and communications technologies. Knowledge-based economies offer huge opportunities for small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to develop entirely new high-value products and services, add value to existing products and services, reduce costs, develop new export markets, and add value to existing activities. Implicit promises include access to world markets, low-cost entry into new markets, and the ability to gain efficiencies in business processes. However, these promises may be illusory for most SMEs. Technological, organizational, and marketing hurdles are also making it more difficult for SMEs to succeed in knowledge-based economies. This chapter identifies those major factors that are hindering the success of SMEs in This chapter appears in the book, Electronic Commerce in Small to Medium-Sized Enterprises: Frameworks, Issues and Implications, edited by Nabeel A.Y. Al-Qirim. Copyright © 2004, Idea Group Inc. Copying or distributing i print or electronic forms without written permission of Idea Group Inc. is prohibited. 701 E. Chocolate Avenue, Suite 200, Hershey PA 17033-1240, USA Tel: 717/533-8845; Fax 717/533-8661; URL-http://www.idea-group.com IDEA GROUP PUBLISHING
Spatial regulation of astral microtubule dynamics by Kif18B in PtK cells

The spatial and temporal control of microtubule dynamics is fundamentally important for proper spindle assembly and chromosome segregation. This is achieved, in part, by the multitude of proteins that bind to and regulate spindle microtubules, including kinesin superfamily members, which act as microtubule-destabilizing enzymes. These fall into two general classes: the kinesin-13 proteins, which directly depolymerize microtubules, and the kinesin-8 proteins, which are plus end-directed motors that either destabilize microtubules or cap the microtubule plus ends. Here we analyze the contribution of a PtK kinesin-8 protein, Kif18B, in the control of mitotic microtubule dynamics. Knockdown of Kif18B causes defects in spindle microtubule organization and a dramatic increase in astral microtubules. Kif18B-knockdown cells had defects in chromosome alignment, but there were no defects in chromosome segregation. The long astral microtubules that occur in the absence of Kif18B are limited in length by the cell cortex. Using EB1 tracking, we show that Kif18B activity is spatially controlled, as loss of Kif18B has the most dramatic effect on the lifetimes of astral microtubules that extend toward the cell cortex. Together our studies provide new insight into how diverse kinesins contribute to spatial microtubule organization in the spindle.
Using a new inversion matrix for a fast-sizing spectrometer and a photo-acoustic instrument to determine suspended particulate mass over a transient cycle for light-duty vehicles

ABSTRACTIntegrated particle size distribution (IPSD) is a promising alternative method for estimating particulate matter (PM) emissions at low levels. However, a recent light-duty vehicle (LDV) emissions study showed that particle mass estimated using IPSD (MIPSD) with the TSI Engine Exhaust Particle Sizer (EEPS) Default Matrix was 56–75% lower than mass derived using the reference gravimetric method (MGrav) over the Federal Test Procedure (FTP). In this study, MIPSD calculated with a new inversion matrix, the Soot Matrix, is compared with MGrav and also photoacoustic soot mass (MSoot), to evaluate potential improvement of the IPSD method for estimating PM mass emissions from LDVs. In addition, an aerodynamic particle sizer (APS) was used to estimate mass emission rates attributed to larger particles (0.54–2.5 µm in aerodynamic diameter) that are not measured by the EEPS. Based on testing of 10 light-duty vehicles over the FTP cycle, the Soot Matrix significantly improved agreement between MIPSD and MGrav...
A New Path through the Nuclear Pore

Knowing the configuration of the nuclear pore is essential for appreciating the underlying mechanisms of nucleo-cytoplasmic communication. Now, Fernandez-Martinez et al. present a high-resolution structure of the cytoplasmic nuclear pore-mRNA export holo-complex, challenging our textbook depiction of this massive membrane-embedded complex.
Integrals: The Power of Positive Thinking

If you remember nothing else from calculus, remember this: A definite integral measures the area beneath a curve. In particular, a positive function must have a positive integral.
A review of the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQL) model for dental hygiene: Eighteen years later

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to review available evidence to determine the impact of the oral health-related quality of life (OHRQL) Model for Dental Hygiene on education, research, and practice. Methods A search was conducted in PubMed using the search terms oral health-related quality of life, OHRQL, and dental hygiene and limited to publications between 1998 and 2016. Google Scholar was also used to identify citations for the two original OHRQL model papers to capture the literature widely read by practicing dental hygienists but not indexed in PubMed. A total of 40 publications met the predetermined search strategy. Full publications were obtained and reviewed to determine how this research is being used in education, research, and practice. Findings The OHRQL is being utilized to a very limited degree in education, research, and practice. The literature shows how the OHRQL is actively being used in the school where the model originated in addition to a dental hygiene programme in Japan. Studies have been conducted on a variety of research instruments, including the OHRQL, designed to capture OHRQL outcomes. Japanese researchers have used the OHRQL in studies designed to determine the impact of oral healthcare delivery on patients’ oral health-related quality of life. Conclusion Eighteen years of the literature confirms that the OHRQL is being used minimally in education, research, and practice. Greater emphasis is needed around the collection and assessment of oral health-related quality of life measures for providing patient-centred care.
Evolution of the Corrosion Morphology on AZ31B Tracked Electrochemically and by In Situ Microscopy in Chloride-Containing Media

The evolution of open-circuit corrosion morphology as a function of immersion time for Mg alloy AZ31B in 0.6-M NaCl solution was investigated. Real-time optical microscopy accompanied by simultaneous electrochemical characterization was used to characterize the filiform corrosion (FFC) of AZ31B. Specifically, the behavior of propagating corrosion filaments on the metal surface was observed, and correlations among polarization resistance, filament propagation rates, open-circuit potential, and active coverage of local corrosion sites were revealed. Three distinct stages of corrosion were observed in 0.6-M NaCl. An initial passive region, during which a slow potential rise occurred (termed stage I), a second FFC region (termed stage II) with shallow penetrating, distinct filaments, and a final FFC region (termed stage III) with deeper penetrating filaments, aligned to form a linear front. The electrochemical properties of each stage are discussed, providing insights into the penetration rates and corrosion model.
Optimal design methodology for dual active bridge converter under wide voltage variation

Dual active bridge (DAB) converter is a popular topology for bidirectional on-board electric vehicle (EV) charger systems and other energy storage applications. In such systems, wide variation in the battery voltage makes design of the DAB converter non-trivial. The focus of this paper is on the optimal selection of DAB parameters when there is a wide variation in the output voltage. Different optimal strategies based on a minimal Euclidean norm approach, namely ‘minimal rms current design’, ‘minimal peak current design’ and ‘minimal power loss design’ are compared to illustrate the effect on system performance with output voltage variation. The proposed optimal design approaches are shown to be superior to a conventional design approach. A loss model for the DAB converter that can be used in the optimal design process is presented. The proposed optimal strategies are validated with experimental results using a laboratory prototype.
A programming framework for neuromorphic systems with emerging technologies

Neuromorphic computing is a promising post-Moore's law era technology. A wide variety of neuromorphic computer (NC) architectures have emerged in recent years, ranging from traditional fully digital CMOS to nanoscale implementations with novel, beyond CMOS components. There are already major questions associated with how we are going to program and use NCs simply because of how radically different their architecture is as compared with the von Neumann architecture. When coupled with the implementations using emerging device technologies, which add additional issues associated with programming devices, it is clear that we must define a new way to program and develop for NC devices. In this work, we discuss a programming framework for NC devices implemented with emerging technologies. We discuss how we have applied this framework to program a NC system implemented with metal oxide memristors. We utilize the framework to develop two applications for the memristive NC device: a simple multiplexer and a simple control task (the cart-pole problem). Finally, we discuss how this framework can be extended to NC systems implemented with a variety of novel device components and materials.
Video-assisted microwave ablation for the treatment of a metastatic lung lesion in a dog with appendicular osteosarcoma and hypertrophic osteopathy

Objective To describe video-assisted microwave ablation (VAMA) for the treatment of a metastatic lung lesion secondary to right forelimb osteosarcoma in a dog. Study design Case report. Animals A 10-year-old female spayed mixed breed dog with a metastatic lung lesion secondary to appendicular osteosarcoma. Methods An osteosarcoma of the right distal scapula and proximal humerus that was suspected to be a radiation-induced osteosarcoma was treated with limb amputation and carboplatin chemotherapy. The patient developed pulmonary metastatic lesions and hypertrophic osteopathy (HO). VAMA of a metastatic lesion in the right caudal lung lobe was performed 227 days after amputation. The procedure was performed without complication. Results Follow-up information with the referring veterinarian 40 days after VAMA indicated that the patient was stable and that the clinical signs of HO had resolved. Thoracic radiographs taken by the referring veterinarian (RDVM) at monthly intervals showed that the previously treated metastatic lesion was stable. At 134 days from VAMA, the patient presented to the RDVM for lethargy and dyspnea and was transferred to an emergency clinic. The patient arrested and died 136 days from the VAMA procedure while hospitalized. A postmortem was not performed. Conclusion VAMA for pulmonary metastatic lesions is technically feasible and allows for the treatment of symptoms associated with HO and minimally invasive management of pulmonary metastases in the case reported.
Hilbert Space Operators

Let χ be an inner product space. Recall that |〈x;y〉| ≤ ||x|| ||y|| (Schwartz inequality) and ||x+y||2 = ||x||2+2 Re 〈 x ; y 〉 + ||y||2 for every x and y in χ, where the norm || || is that induced by the inner product 〈;〉. Two vectors x and y in χ are orthogonal if 〈 x; y 〉 = 0. In this case we write x ⊥ y. Two subsets A and В of χ are orthogonal (notation: A ⊥ В) if every vector in A is orthogonal to every vector in В. The orthogonal complement of a set A is the set A⊥ made up of all vectors in χ that are orthogonal to every vector of A. Observe that {0}⊥= χ, χ⊥ = {0}, and A ⊥ В if and only if \(A \subseteq {B^ \bot }\). Moreover, A⊥ is a subspace (closed linear manifold) of χ, and \(A \cap {A^ \bot } \subseteq \{ 0\}\) {0}. In fact, A⊥ = (А⊥)- = (А-)⊥. If М is a linear manifold of χ,then М ⋂ М⊥= {0} and, if χ is a Hilbert space, then М⊥⊥ = М-, and М⊥ = {0} if and only if, М- = χ (see e.g., [32, §5.4]).
Enjoyment in a recreational sing-along group for people with aphasia and their caregivers

Background: Literature exists documenting connections between music, health, and well-being. Group singing involving people with aphasia (PwA) and caregivers may be an enjoyable, leisure activity c...
An H-Bridge-Based Single-Phase VAr Generator With Minimum DC Capacitance

Conventional single-phase H-bridge applications have second-order harmonic ripple power on the dc bus. The second-order harmonic power is usually filtered by a bulk capacitor on the dc bus to maintain a constant dc-bus voltage, which results in low power density. However, in applications like VAr generator, a larger dc-bus voltage fluctuation is acceptable since the dc bus connects to no load. This paper releases the constraints on dc-bus voltage fluctuation so that the dc-bus capacitor can be fully utilized. Based on this idea, an H-bridge-based single-phase VAr generator with minimum dc capacitance is proposed, which reduces the dc-bus capacitor to 1/10th of the size compared to that of the sinusoidal pulse width modulation (SPWM)-modulated H-bridge inverter, without increasing components’ count. A general modulation method of the proposed VAr generator is derived to utilize the fluctuating dc-bus voltage. The system volume and power loss are assessed to compare with the conventional SPWM-modulated H-bridge and the circuits with power-decoupling cells. A proportional-integral controller is applied to the system to control the input ac current. The analysis and design are validated by simulations and experiments.
Integration of signal processing modules of hearing aids as real-time smartphone apps

Our research group has been working on developing an open source research platform for hearing improvement studies based on smartphones noting that currently no open source, programmable, and mobile research platform exists in the public domain for carrying out hearing improvement studies. Such a platform allows smartphones, which are already widely possessed and carried by people, to be used for the development and field testing of existing or new hearing improvement signal processing algorithms. A number of smartphones apps have already been developed by our research group for specific or individual modules of the speech processing pipeline of a typical digital hearing aid. This work covers the integration of several individual signal processing modules into an integrated smartphone app. The steps taken in order to enable the individual modules to run together in real-time and with low audio latency will be presented and a demo of the integrated app running on both iOS and Android smartphones will be shown.Our research group has been working on developing an open source research platform for hearing improvement studies based on smartphones noting that currently no open source, programmable, and mobile research platform exists in the public domain for carrying out hearing improvement studies. Such a platform allows smartphones, which are already widely possessed and carried by people, to be used for the development and field testing of existing or new hearing improvement signal processing algorithms. A number of smartphones apps have already been developed by our research group for specific or individual modules of the speech processing pipeline of a typical digital hearing aid. This work covers the integration of several individual signal processing modules into an integrated smartphone app. The steps taken in order to enable the individual modules to run together in real-time and with low audio latency will be presented and a demo of the integrated app running on both iOS and Android smartphones will be shown.
Electromigration and Parasitic-Aware ILP Router for Analog and RF Circuits

Interconnect and via failures due to the electromigration (EM) effect have become very challenging in the advanced technology as a result of shrinking feature size of integrated circuit. The parasitic effects, which have to be normally represented as analog and radio frequency (RF) circuit constraints for effective suppression in practice, have also made the modern physical design more complicated. In this paper, we present a new integer-linear-programming (ILP) based electromigration- and parasitic-aware analog/RF router, which can effectively address the EM constraints as well as interconnect parasitics along the routing paths. The experimental results show that our proposed method is able to produce better circuit performance compared to the previous work while EM can be addressed for analog/RF circuits.
Functional indicators for assessing zinc deficiency.

Zinc is an essential micronutrient for growth and proper immune function. There is currently no simple recommendation for the assessment of population-level zinc deficiency. Trials of zinc suppleme...
Malnutrition and the Orthopaedic Trauma Patient: A Systematic Review of the Literature

Objectives To evaluate the available literature for associations between nutrition and outcomes after operative treatment of long bone and long bone periarticular fractures. Data sources Systematic review of English-language articles in the MEDLINE, Embase, PubMed, and Cochrane computerized literature databases (through December 2015) using PRISMA guidelines. Study selection Randomized controlled trials, quasi-randomized controlled trials, case-control studies, and cohort studies (retrospective and prospective) involving long bone and long bone periarticular fractures that included the effect of nutritional status on fracture union, time to union, and any related soft-tissue complication were eligible for review. Data extraction Two authors independently extracted data from the selected studies using a standardized data collection form with predefined data fields for demographics, interventions, study methods, complications, and management outcomes. Data synthesis Although one of the original aims of the study was to conduct a meta-analysis, the available literature did not offer sufficient data for meta-analysis. Conclusions Although our systematic review demonstrates a possible role for oral nutritional supplementation and vitamin supplementation in the orthopaedic trauma patient, there remains a need for well-designed trials to clarify this role. There is likely benefit to multidisciplinary approaches to nutritional optimization in the orthopaedic trauma patient, and this should be explored further in forthcoming work. Level of evidence Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Effect of early physician follow-up on mortality and subsequent hospital admissions after emergency care for heart failure: a retrospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: The 1-year mortality rate in patients with heart failure who are discharged from an emergency department is 20%. We sought to determine whether early follow-up after discharge from the emergency department was associated with decreased mortality or subsequent admission to hospital. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study conducted in Ontario, Canada, included adult patients who were discharged from 1 of 163 emergency departments between April 2007 and March 2014 with a primary diagnosis of heart failure. Using a propensity score–matched landmark analysis, we assessed follow-up in relation to mortality and admissions to hospital for cardiovascular conditions. RESULTS: Of 34 519 patients, 16 274 (47.1%) obtained follow-up care within 7 days and 28 846 (83.6%) within 30 days. Compared with follow-up between day 8 and 30, patients with follow-up care within 7 days had a lower rate of mortality over 1 year (hazard ratio [HR] 0.92; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.87–0.97), and a reduced rate of admission to hospital over 90 days (HR 0.87, 95% CI 0.80–0.94) and 1 year (HR 0.92; 95% CI 0.87–0.97); the mortality rate over 90 days in this group trended to a lower rate (HR 0.90, 95% CI 0.10–1.00). Follow-up care within 30 days, compared with patients without 30-day follow-up, was associated with a reduction in 1-year mortality (HR 0.89, 95% CI 0.82–0.97) but not admission to hospital (HR 1.02, 95% CI 0.94–1.10). In this group, there was a trend toward an increase in 90-day admission to hospital (HR 1.14, 95% CI 1.00–1.29). INTERPRETATION: Follow-up care within 7 days of discharge from the emergency department was associated with lower rates of long-term mortality, as well as subsequent hospital admissions, and a trend to lower short-term mortality rates. Timely access to longitudinal care for patients with heart failure who are discharged from the emergency setting should be prioritized.
Optimized Reconstruction Techniques for Multiplexed Dual-Gate Ion Mobility Mass Spectrometry Experiments

When coupling drift-tube gas-phase ion mobility separations with ion trapping mass analyzers an integrative, stepped approach to spectral reconstruction is a logical, yet highly inefficient means to determine gas-phase mobility coefficients. This experimental mode is largely predicated on the respective time scales of the two techniques each requiring tens of milliseconds to complete under routine conditions. Multiplexing techniques, such as Fourier and Hadamard based techniques, are a potential solution but still require extended experimental times that are not fully compatible with modern front-end separation schemes. Using a basis pursuit denoising (BPDN) approach to deconvolute Fourier transform ion mobility mass spectrometry (FT-IMMS) drift time spectra, we demonstrate significant time savings while maintaining a high degree of spectral resolution and signal-to-noise ratio. Under ideal conditions, the FT-IMMS operates with increased ion transmission (up to 25%); however, the linear chirp that spans into the kHz range often leads to significant levels of ion gate depletion, which limit both resolving power and ion transmission. The method proposed in this manuscript demonstrates the potential to reduce IMS acquisition time while simultaneously maximizing spectral resolution at longer effective gate pulse widths compared to the traditional set of multiplexing and signal averaging experiments.
A cell-by-cell Monte Carlo simulation for assessing radiation-induced DNA double strand breaks.

Abstract This paper presents a cell-by-cell Monte Carlo simulation study that combines charged particle track structure data with an interphase cell nucleus model to quantify DNA double strand breaks (DSBs), spatial distribution of DSBs in a cell nucleus, and resulting potentially lethal or mutagenic events (PLMEs) between DSBs in close proximity. Cell nucleus is simulated according to the chromosome territory-interchromatin compartment (CT-IC) model in that chromatin content is unevenly distributed in chromatin domains (CDs) and IC with a chromatin compaction ratio of 22:1. A particle track structure coordinate (PTSC) library was first generated for each particle type, energy, and dose based on a large number of particle track data obtained by running the Monte Carlo track structure code Geant4-DNA. To assess the DNA DSBs of a cell for a specific particle type, energy, and dose, the corresponding PTSC was selected and “map overlaid” onto 960 unique cell nucleus data sets containing chromatin fiber (CF) locations. Clustering algorithm DBSCAN was next used to identify the clustered energy deposition events occurring inside the CF. These events were then converted to DNA DSBs using a probabilistic approach. The locations of the DSBs thus obtained were, in turn, used to calculate PLMEs within the cell nucleus that can result from DSB proximity and complexity. The results obtained from this simulation study are correctly correlated to the experimental data of DSB yield and the RBE-LET relationships for various types of charged particles and of various energies. The results show agreement with other published radiobiological models.
Head-to-body size allometry in wasps (Vespidae): does brain housing constrain the evolution of small body sizes?

Species of wasps in the Vespidae family range widely in body size. Vespid wasp species’ mean brain size increases relative to head capsule size in smaller species. In this study, I tested whether head capsule size varied allometrically with overall body size. I compared species ranging in body size from some of the largest to the smallest species. I found that relative head capsule volume and weight showed negative allometry with body size: relative head size was larger in smaller species. This significant negative relationship held after accounting for phylogenetic effects, and the negative allometry held when only social species were analyzed. I suggest that limits on minimum brain size have affected the evolution of body allometry in vespid wasps. Negative head-to-body allometry may be caused by the need to accommodate relatively large brains in smaller bodied species, and brain-driven needs for allometrically enlarged heads could place lower limits on body size evolution in the Vespidae. The relatively large brains of small species could affect head capsule cuticle thickness or muscle mass, with biomechanical implications for species’ behavior and ecology.
A diet of U.S. military food rations alters gut microbiota composition and does not increase intestinal permeability

Interactions between gut microbes and dietary components modulate intestinal permeability (IP) and inflammation. Recent studies have reported altered fecal microbiota composition together with increased IP and inflammation in individuals consuming military food rations in austere environments, but could not isolate effects of the diet from environmental factors. To determine how the U.S. Meal, Ready-to-Eat food ration affects fecal microbiota composition, IP and inflammation, 60 adults (95% male,18-61 years) were randomized to consume their usual ad libitum diet for 31 days (CON) or a strictly controlled Meal, Ready-to-Eat-only diet for 21 days followed by their usual diet for 10 days (MRE). In both groups, fecal microbiota composition was measured before, during (INT, days 1-21) and after the intervention period. IP and inflammation [high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP)] were measured on days 0, 10, 21 and 31. Longitudinal changes in fecal microbiota composition differed between groups (P=.005), and fecal samples collected from MRE during INT were identified with 88% accuracy using random forest models. The genera making the strongest contribution to that prediction accuracy included multiple lactic acid bacteria (Lactobacillus, Lactococcus, Leuconostoc), which demonstrated lower relative abundance in MRE, and several genera known to dominate the ileal microbiota (Streptococcus, Veillonella, Clostridium), the latter two demonstrating higher relative abundance in MRE. IP and hsCRP were both lower (34% and 41%, respectively) in MRE relative to CON on day 21 (P<.05) but did not differ otherwise. Findings demonstrate that a Meal, Ready-to-Eat ration diet alters fecal microbiota composition and does not increase IP or inflammation.