cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
PROPOSED MX SUPERCONDUCTING MIRROR MACHINE AT LLL

Proposals have been submitted to D.M.P.E. ERDA for the building at Livermore of a large superconducting mirror machine call “MX” to extend the present plasma physics being carried out on Baseball II and 2XIIB.
Academic Reality Check: A Fast, Free, Practical Tool for Freshmen Retention:

With limited budgets and increasing enrollment demands, colleges need fast, free, and practical solutions supporting academic success and retention. The Academic Reality Check (ARC) tool helps to p...
Towards Image-to-Video Translation: A Structure-Aware Approach via Multi-stage Generative Adversarial Networks

In this paper, we consider the problem of image-to-video translation, where one or a set of input images are translated into an output video which contains motions of a single object. Especially, we focus on predicting motions conditioned by high-level structures, such as facial expression and human pose. Recent approaches are either driven by structural conditions or temporal-based. Condition-driven approaches typically train transformation networks to generate future frames conditioned on the predicted structural sequence. Temporal-based approaches, on the other hand, have shown that short high-quality motions can be generated using 3D convolutional networks with temporal knowledge learned from massive training data. In this work, we combine the benefits of both approaches and propose a two-stage generative framework where videos are forecast from the structural sequence and then refined by temporal signals. To model motions more efficiently in the forecasting stage, we train networks with dense connections to learn residual motions between the current and future frames, which avoids learning motion-irrelevant details. To ensure temporal consistency in the refining stage, we adopt the ranking loss for adversarial training. We conduct extensive experiments on two image-to-video translation tasks: facial expression retargeting and human pose forecasting. Superior results over the state of the art on both tasks demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach.
Enabling materials informatics for 29Si solid-state NMR of crystalline materials

Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is a powerful tool for obtaining precise information about the local bonding of materials, but difficult to interpret without a well-vetted dataset of reference spectra. The ability to predict NMR parameters and connect them to three-dimensional local environments is critical for understanding more complex, long-range interactions. New computational methods have revealed structural information available from 29Si solid-state NMR by generating computed reference spectra for solids. Such predictions are useful for the identification of new silicon-containing compounds, and serve as a starting point for determination of the local environments present in amorphous structures. In this study, we have used 42 silicon sites as a benchmarking set to compare experimentally reported 29Si solid-state NMR spectra with those computed by CASTEP-NMR and Vienna Ab Initio Simulation Program (VASP). Data-driven approaches enable us to identify the source of discrepancies across a range of experimental and computational results. The information from NMR (in the form of an NMR tensor) has been validated, and in some cases corrected, in an effort to catalog these for the local spectroscopy database infrastructure (LSDI), where over 10,000 29Si NMR tensors for crystalline materials have been computed. Knowledge of specific tensor values can serve as the basis for executing NMR experiments with precision, optimizing conditions to capture the elements accurately. The ability to predict and compare experimental observables from a wide range of structures can aid researchers in their chemical assignments and structure determination, since the computed values enables the extension beyond tables of typical chemical shift (or shielding) ranges.
Nucleation of soot: experimental assessment of the role of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) dimers

Author(s): Adamson, BA; Skeen, SA; Ahmed, M; Hansen, N | Abstract: The irreversible dimerization of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)-typically pyrene (C16H10) dimerization-is widely used in combustion chemistry models to describe the soot particle inception step. This paper concerns itself with the detection and identification of dimers of flame-synthesized PAH radicals and closed-shell molecules and an experimental assessment of the role of these PAH dimers for the nucleation of soot. To this end, flame-generated species were extracted from an inverse co-flow flame of ethylene at atmospheric pressure and immediately diluted with excess nitrogen before the mixture was analyzed using flame-sampling tandem mass spectrometry with collision-induced fragmentation. Signal at m/z = 404.157 (C32H20) and m/z = 452.157 (C36H20) were detected and identified as dimers of closed-shell C16H10 and C18H10 monomers, respectively. A complex between a C13H9 radical and a C24H12 closed-shell PAH was observed at m/z = 465.164 (C37H21). However, a rigorous analysis of the flame-sampled mass spectra as a function of the dilution ratio, defined as the ratio of the flow rates of the diluent nitrogen to the sampled gases, indicates that the observed dimers are not flame-born, but are produced in the sampling line. In agreement with theoretical considerations, this paper provides experimental evidence that pyrene dimers cannot be a key intermediate in particle inception at elevated flame temperatures.
The primary sites leading to brain metastases: Shifting trends at a tertiary care center.

Abstract While the majority of brain metastases arise from lung cancer, breast cancer, or melanoma, new treatments and improved prognoses have altered the profile of primary cancers that metastasize to the brain. We sought to determine the proportion of brain metastases from less common primary sites and conduct trend analyses. We reviewed the charts of 3585 patients with brain metastases seen at our institution from 2008 to 2018. We determined the primary site for each of these patients, and the Mann-Kendall test was used to evaluate temporal trends in the yearly proportion of brain metastases originating from each primary cancer. The five most common primary sites were lung (43.0%), breast (19.9%), melanoma (8.2%), renal (5.0%), and colorectal (3.8%). The proportion of yearly brain metastases originating from breast cancer (p = 0.029) and melanoma (p = 0.013) decreased by 23.8% and 46.7%, respectively, from 2008 (0.21 breast, 0.15 melanoma) to 2018 (0.16 breast, 0.08 melanoma), while no change was found in the proportion of brain metastases from lung, renal, and colorectal cancers. Brain metastases arising from rare primary sites, defined as those comprising at most 2% of all brain metastases, increased by 34.4% (p = 0.005). Limited sample size prohibited trend analysis of other individual primary sites. We report a decrease over 11 years in the proportion of brain metastases originating from breast cancer and melanoma at our institution, and an increase in brain metastases from rare primary sites. Further work with larger, multi-center databases will enable additional evaluation of brain metastases from rare primary sites.
Surrogate modeling of time-dependent metocean conditions during hurricanes

Metocean conditions during hurricanes are defined by multiple parameters (e.g., significant wave height and surge height) that vary in time with significant auto- and cross-correlation. In many cases, the nature of the variation of these characteristics in time is important to design and assess the risk to offshore structures, but a persistent problem is that measurements are sparse and time history simulations using metocean models are computationally onerous. Surrogate modeling is an appealing approach to ease the computational burden of metocean modeling; however, modeling the time-dependency of metocean conditions using surrogate models is challenging because the conditions at one time instant are dependent on not only the conditions at that instant but also on the conditions at previous time instances. In this paper, time-dependent surrogate modeling of significant wave height, peak wave period, peak wave direction, and storm surge is explored using a database of metocean conditions at an offshore site. Three types of surrogate models, including Kriging, multilayer perceptron (MLP), and recurrent neural network with gated recurrent unit (RNN-GRU), are evaluated, with two different time-dependent structures considered for the Kriging model and two training set sizes for the MLP model, resulting in a total of five models evaluated in this paper. The performance of the models is compared in terms of accuracy and sensitivity toward hyperparameters, and the MLP and RNN-GRU models are demonstrated to have extraordinary prediction performance in this context.
Experimental confirmation of electron figure-8 motion in a strong laser field

We measure polarization-resolved fundamental, second, and third harmonic nonlinear Thomson scattering out the side of a laser focus with ${10}^{18}\phantom{\rule{0.16em}{0ex}}\mathrm{W}/{\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$. The separate measured polarization components are each associated with a distinct dimension of predicted electron figure-8 motion. Taken together, the measured angular emission patterns for the two polarizations unambiguously confirm the figure-8 motion. Electrons are donated from low-density helium (${10}^{\ensuremath{-}3}$ to 1 Torr) ionized early during the laser pulse. Time-resolved single-photon detection is used to distinguish signal from noise.
Relational Behavior and ACT: A Dynamic Relationship

Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and its counterpart, relational frame theory (RFT), represent emerging areas of research and professional interest for behavior analysts. We extend traditional RFT approaches by emphasizing relational framing as a dynamic pattern of behavior with implications for ACT-based strategies implemented by behavior analysts in practice and in research. We borrow from emerging approaches within affective dynamics, relational density theory, and the hyper-dimensional multilevel model to develop some immediate considerations for practitioners. We then extend an approach grounded in relational dynamics to the six core processes of the ACT hexaflex not only to influence negative affective patterns of relational behavior but also to promote greater psychological flexibility and well-being. Finally, we turn this account inward to discuss our own rigidity as a field and the necessity to engage more flexibly with our own science, ultimately to improve the lives of clients whom we serve.
Multi-functional biosensing with quantum emitters in diamond and phosphors

Diamond optical emitters have been explored extensively in recent years for applications to quantum information and processing. Similarly, rare-earth dopant ions in ceramic crystals have also been explored for quantum applications, especially memories. Recently, both classes of these quantum emitters have been explored for bio-sensing. Each has unique advantages. In this talk I will discuss the possibility simultaneously using both of these material systems for advanced biosensing. I will also discuss some of our recent work to fabricate composite particles containing both systems, in an attempt to get the “best of both worlds.”
Are we at a Turning Point in the World Demographic Situation

Are we, in the matter of world population, about to pass from a period of rank pessimism into a period of wait-and-see, resting upon a doubtful mixture of hope and disillusionment, not to say resignation, without profound misgivings about the final result? There is hope in so far as birth rates recently seem to have begun to decline, especially in the Third World. But there is also disillusionment, because, contrary to all the predictions of experts, mortality rates look like rising, so much so that by the joint operation of these two factors the rate of population increase may be about to fall quickly. Malthusians may find their long-cherished hope fulfilled.
Antibody conjugation, characterization, and 211At labeling of a bis-maleimido-closo-decaborate(2-) derivative

1530 Objectives We are investigating a bis-maleimido-closo-decaborate(2-) derivative as a monoclonal antibody (mAb) conjugate for labeling with 211At. A mono-maleimido-closo-decaborate(2-) derivative for 211At labeling of mAbs previously yielded promising therapeutic results, however unacceptable renal toxicity was observed in a canine model. In this study a bis-maleimide reagent was investigated for mAb conjugation and radiolabeling to potentially mediate the previously observed renal toxicity. Methods Conjugation conditions and 211At labeling efficiency were evaluated using two mAb’s; the anti- EGFR mAb Erbitux and BC8, an anti-CD45 mAb. Both antibodies were conjugated with the bis-maleimide reagent via reactions with sulfhydryl groups produced by disulfide reduction. The mAbs were reacted with 5, 10, & 20 equivalents of the bis-maleimide reagent to evaluate reagent loading and determine the optimal reaction conditions. The mAb conjugates were characterized by SE-HPLC and electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE and IEF). The mAb conjugates were subsequently labeled with 211At using chloramine-T and Na[211At]At (400 μCi). Results SE-HPLC analyses showed that the reduction and subsequent cross-linking of the disulfide bonds did not significantly affect the purity of either mAb conjugated via reduced disulfides. Further, both reducing and non-reducing SDS-PAGE analyses indicated very low quantities of non-specific protein fragments in the conjugates as compared to controls and mono-maleimide conjugates of the same mAbs. Ten molar equivalents of the bis-maleimide reagent was chosen as an optimal amount to achieve a stable conjugation with the mAbs; and those mAb conjugates were successfully labeled with 211At in 90.4% (Erbitux) and 83.7% (BC8) radiochemical yields. Conclusions The stable cross-linking and efficient 211At labeling of mAbs conjugated with the bis-maleimido-closo-decaborate(2-) derivative indicates that further studies are warranted. Research Support The authors wish to acknowledge the following source of funding for this work: NIH (CA113431)
The use of thermal infrared images in geologic mapping

Thermal infrared image data can be used as an aid to geologic mapping. Broadband thermal data between 8 and 13 microns is used to measure surface temperature, from which surface thermal properties can be inferred. Data from aircraft multispectral scanners at Pisgah, California which include a broadband thermal channel along with several visible and near-IR spectral channels permit better discrimination between rock type units than the same data set without the thermal data. Data from the HCMM satellite and from aircraft thermal scanners also make it possible to monitor moisture changes in Death Valley, California. Multispectral data in the same 8-13 micron wavelength range can be used to discriminate between surface materials with different spectral emission characteristics, as demonstrated with both aircraft scanner and ground spectrometer data.
A Low Cost Implementation of Autonomous Takeoff and Landing for a Fixed Wing UAV

A LOW COST IMPLEMENTATION OF AUTONOMOUS TAKEOFF AND LANDING FOR A FIXED WING UAV By Thomas W. Carnes, M.S. A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science at Virginia Commonwealth University Virginia Commonwealth University, 2014 Major Director: Dr. Robert H. Klenke, Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering The take-off and landing of an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) is often the most critical and accident prone portion of its mission. This potential hazard coupled with the time and resources necessary to train a remote UAV pilot makes it desirable to have autonomous take-off and landing capabilities for UAVs. However, a robust, reliable, and accurate autonomous takeoff and landing capability for fixed-wing aircraft is not an available feature in many low-cost UAV flight control systems. This thesis describes the design of an autonomous take-off and landing algorithm implemented on an existing low-cost flight control system for a small fixed wing UAV. This thesis also describes the autonomous takeoff and landing algorithm development and gives validation results from hardware in the loop simulation.
Investigating the Dynamic Spillover Effects of Low-Cost Airlines on Airport Airfare Through Spatio-Temporal Regression Models

Low airfare is associated with low passengers’ transportation expense, high regional accessibility, and active related industry market. Low-cost airlines have been found to be effective on airfare reduction. However, most previous studies examined their impacts from the perspectives of certain routes and companies. This paper extends the literature by examining the impact of low-cost airlines from the perspective of airports. A spatio-temporal regression model is used to analyze the relationship between airport airfare and low-cost airlines’ market shares. The spatial consideration, which is also under-investigated in the air literature, creates a chance to analyze the spatial interaction of airfare among airports. Along with the temporal consideration, this analytic framework helps to quantitatively show the impact of low-cost airline over time and space by the dynamic spillover-effect function. A case study of market share improvement of AirTran Airway at Albany International Airport (ALB) is used to illustrate the dynamic spillover effect. Results show that the average airfare of ALB will drop $18.64 right after AirTran takes 10 % market share, continue to drop in the following years, and stabilize at around 10 years. Airfare at other airports will also drop, and the magnitudes decrease as time and distance to ALB increase.
Three Critical Characteristics of Leadership: Character, Stewardship, Experience

There is no one definition of leadership. The leadership equation is never set or fixed. Time, place, specific problems, the particular parties involved all play a role in the leadership equation. Nor is there one specific list of attributes, virtues, or skills that all leaders must and do possess. Nonetheless, we argue that at its core, all forms of ethical leadership are based on three elemental ingredients: character, stewardship, and experience.
Fine structure of ribosomal RNA: III. Location of evolutionarily conserved regions within ribosomal DNA

Abstract In order to define functional regions within ribosomal RNA, we have identified areas of the molecule which have been conserved during evolution. Our previous studies showed that there is evolutionary conservation between the rRNAs of different eukaryotes and that the sequences conserved between distantly related species are a subset of those conserved between closely related species. In the present work, we have employed DNA-DNA and DNA-RNA hybridization techniques to localize these conserved regions to mapped restriction fragments 50 to 300 base-pairs in length within cloned Xenopus laevis ribosomal DNA. Our experiments have detected evolutionary conservation only within the coding regions, suggesting that if there is any conservation within the spacers, these sequences must be very short. Regions of conservation can be classified either by evolutionary distance or by the extent of conservation between two species. Three regions, including one near the 3' end of 18 S and two near the 3' end of 28 S rRNA are conserved over great evolutionary distance, that is between Escherichia coli and X. laevis. In addition, several fragments in the central portions of the 188 and 28 S rRNAs are exceptional in the extent of their conservation between yeast and Xenopus. We have been able to correlate the regions we have defined as conserved with certain structural or functional roles, such as initiation of translation, possible interaction with transfer RNA, rRNA methylation, and the site where intervening sequences interrupt some eukaryotic rRNAs. As a result, these studies serve to define relatively short (less than 300 base-pairs) segments within the almost 11,000 base X. laevis rDNA repeat unit which are worthy of further investigation.
Power Electronics and Motor Drives - Technology Advances, Trends and Applications

The technology of power electronics and motor drives has gone through dynamic evolution in the recent years due to many innovations in power semiconductor devices, converter topologies, analytical and simulation techniques, machines, drives, and control techniques. Artificial intelligence (AI) techniques, such as fuzzy logic, neural networks and genetic algorithms are now extending its frontier and bringing new challenge to power electronic engineers. As the technology is advancing, the applications of power electronics are proliferating in industrial, commercial, residential, aerospace, military, transportation and utility systems. Power electronics is destined to play key role in global industrialization and energy conservation trends of the 21st century. In the environmentally clean renewable energy systems, such as wind, PV and fuel cells, the role of power electronics is significant. Power electronics is helping efficient energy utilization in the ever-increasing energy demand of the world, and thus conserving our dwindling fossil fuel energy reserve and helping environmental pollution control. The importance of power electronics will be similar to information technology that is currently causing revolution in our society. The half-day advanced and state-of-the-art tutorial is designed to give a comprehensive overview and recent advances of power electronics and motor drives with emphasis on industrial applications. Starting with historical evolution, importance and energy saving aspects of the technology, the tutorial will review advances and trends on power semiconductor devices, converter topologies, machine drives and control. The application features in renewable energy systems (wind, PV and fuel cells) will be covered.
NP VS QMA log (2)

Although it is believed unlikely that NP-hard problems admit efficient quantum algo-rithms, it has been shown that a quantum verifier can solve NP-complete problemsgiven a "short" quantum proof; more precisely, NP ⊆ QMAlog(2) where QMAlog(2) de-notes the class of quantum Merlin-Arthur games in which there are two unentangledprovers who send two logarithmic size quantum witnesses to the verifier. The inclusionNP ⊆ QMAlog(2) has been proved by Blier and Tapp by stating a quantum Merlin-Arthurprotocol for 3-coloring with perfect completeness and gap 1/24n6. Moreover, Aaronson etal. have shown the above inclusion with a constant gap by considering O(√n) witnessesof logarithmic size. However, we still do not know if QMAlog(2) with a constant gapcontains NP. In this paper, we show that 3-SAT admits a QMAlog(2) protocol with thegap 1/n3+e for every constant e > 0.
Geologic Coal Assessment: The Interface with Economics

Geologic resource assessments describe the location, general characteristics, and estimated volumes of resources, whether in situ or technically recoverable. Such compilations are only an initial step in economic resource evaluation. This paper identifies, by examples from the Illinois and Appalachian basins, the salient features of a geologic assessment that assure its usefulness to downstream economic analysis. Assessments should be in sufficient detail to allocate resources to production units (mines or wells). Coal assessments should include the spatial distribution of coal bed characteristics and the ability to allocate parts of the resource to specific mining technologies. For coal bed gas assessment, the production well recoveries and well deliverability characteristics must be preserved and the risk structure should be specified so dryholes and noncommercial well costs are recovered by commercially successful wells.
SU-E-T-103: An Evaluation of Multiple Irradiations of the IROC Houston QA Center Anthropomorphic Liver Phantom

Purpose: Analyze the results from irradiations of an anthropomorphic liver phantom based on irradiation technique and number of isocenters used for the SBRT delivery. Methods: The phantom consists of a water-fillable plastic shell that has a polystyrene insert, representing the liver which includes two Solid WaterTM targets (PTV1 and PTV2) mimicking liver metastases. The two targets, PTV1 and PTV2 are non-coplanar and are an ovoid 2 cm in diameter and 2.5 cm long and a 3 cm diameter sphere, respectively. Each PTV houses one TLD and 2 planes of radiochromic film. The phantom and a motion table to simulate respiratory motion is sent to institutions sthat are instructed to design and deliver a stereotactic treatment plan that delivers 6 Gy to ≥ 95% of each PTV. The maximum motion of the phantom on the motion table was 1 cm in the superior-inferior direction. Results: Irradiations from 93 institutions have been analyzed. The acceptance criteria are ±7% for the TLD and 85% of the pixels in a region surrounding each PTV passing a ±7%/4 mm global gamma analysis. Sixty-seven (71%) irradiations meet this criteria. The majority, 74 (80%), of the irradiations were performed with IMRT. 73% of the IMRT deliveries were within criteria and 68% of the 3D CRT delivery were within criteria. 32 of the irradiations had a single isocenter plan, 50 were performed with two isocenters and 11 irradiations were performed with CyberKnife and TomoTherapy units where the concept of isocenter is not applicable. The pass rate for the single, dual and no isocenter irradiations were 69%, 74% and 73%, respectively and are not statistically different. Conclusion: The pass rate for the anthropomorphic liver phantom is approximately 70%. There does not seem to be any correlation with number of isocenters used or irradiation technique used for the delivery. This work was supported by PHS CA180803 awarded by NCI, DHHS
What Ethical Responsibilities Do I Have With Regard to Radiographs for My Patients

QI find that more of my new patients are asking about the type and number of radiographs I recommend. What are my ethical obligations in addressing the use of radiographs in my practice?
MITIGATING EFFECTS OF INTERLEUKIN 11 ON CONSECUTIVE COURSES OF 5-FLUOROURACIL-INDUCED ULCERATIVE MUCOSITIS IN HAMSTERS

Abstract Ulcerative mucositis is a painful, debilitating and dose-limiting toxicity of cancer chemotherapy. Current treatment is largely palliative and no adequate preventive treatment exists. Recently, we reported that recombinant human(rh) interleukin 11 (IL-11) favourably modified the course of mucositis following a single stomatotoxic regimen of 5-fluorouracil in hamsters. Although potentially beneficial, the clinically relevant issue of mucositis and myelosuppression during multicourse chemotherapy treatment was not addressed. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of rhIL-11 on two consecutive courses of mucositis and myelosuppression in hamsters. Ulcerative mucositis was induced using a standardized protocol consisting of 5-fluorouracil (60 mg/kg) on days 1 and 2 followed by superficial irritation of the buccal mucosa on day 4. Animals treated with 100 μg of rhIL-11 for 12 consecutive days following each regimen of chemotherapy experienced a reduction in the incidence, severity, and duration of mucositis, a reduction in weight loss, and less morbidity and mortality relative to control animals. Bone marrow cellularity and function was not adversely affected by rhIL-11 treatment. The present study is consistent with the potential use of rhIL-11 treating patients at risk of developing ulcerative mucositis while undergoing intensive muticourse chemotherapy treatment.
Low Earth Orbital Atomic Oxygen Interactions with Spacecraft Materials

Atomic oxygen, formed in Earth's thermosphere, interacts readily with many materials on spacecraft flying in low Earth orbit (LEO). All hydrocarbon based polymers and graphite are easily oxidized upon the impact of ∼4.5 eV atomic oxygen as the spacecraft ram into the residual atmosphere. The resulting interactions can change the morphology and reduce the thickness of these materials. Directed atomic oxygen erosion will result in the development of textured surfaces on all materials with volatile oxidation products. Examples from space flight samples are provided. As a result of the erosive properties of atomic oxygen on polymers and composites, protective coatings have been developed and are used to increase the functional life of polymer films and composites that are exposed to the LEO environment. The atomic oxygen erosion yields for actual and predicted LEO exposure of numerous materials are presented. Results of in-space exposure of vacuum deposited aluminum protective coatings on polyimide Kapton indicate high rates of degradation are associated with aluminum coatings on both surfaces of the Kapton. Computational modeling predictions indicate that less trapping of the atomic oxygen occurs, with less resulting damage, if only the space-exposed surface is coated with vapor deposited aluminum rather than having both surfaces coated.
Physical limitations on detecting tunnels using Underground Focusing Spotlight Synthetic Aperture Radar

This work studies the concept of Underground Focusing Spotlight Synthetic Aperture Radar (UF-SL-SAR) systems for tunnel detection applications. A general formulation for generating UF-SL-SAR imaging in realistic, randomly rough ground is developed by focusing in space and frequency at subsurface points by considering rays refraction at the nominal ground surface. Imaging results are presented for two soil scenarios: dry sand and moist clay loam. It is demonstrated that the tunnel is successfully imaged only for the sand case.
The nexus between terrorism and product counterfeiting in the United States

Terrorists use a wide variety of methods to fund their operations, obtain profits and carry out ideologically driven goals. Terrorist organisations have increasingly been linked to product counterfeiting crimes, but evidence for this connection is mostly anecdotal and speculative, lacking systematic empirical evaluation. This study mines open-source data to capture known product counterfeiting schemes linked to known extremists in the United States since 1990. We utilise the Extremist Financial Crime Database (EFCDB) and the Michigan State University Center for Anti-Counterfeiting and Product Protection's (A-CAPP) Incident Database to provide an overview of both the schemes and the individual suspects involved in these crimes. We uncovered ten product counterfeiting schemes linked to terrorism, while the vast majority of suspects involved are non-extremist collaborators motivated by profit, not extremist ideology. These findings indicate the need for policies focusing on criminal networks broadly, expandi...
Bicircular signed-graphic matroids

Abstract A theorem of Matthews from late 1970s gives a characterization of graphs whose bicircular matroids are graphic. We give a characterization of graphs whose bicircular matroids are signed-graphic.
Context awareness emergence for distributed binary pyroelectric sensors

We have built a distributed binary pyroelectric sensor network (PSN) for the purpose of multi-walker recognition and tracking. It is important to identify a region of interest (RoI) in the monitoring area in order to find any interesting targets (i.e., walkers). The prerequisite of RoI identification is to accurately extract context features (such as the target IDs and positions) from a hybrid, binary, multi-walker sensor data stream. In this paper, we present our research results on the contextual basis learning and context feature extraction through signal projection in orthogonal subspaces. Particularly, the context identification effects (from signal reconstruction viewpoint) have been investigated a signal projection scheme called non-negative matrix factorization (NMF). Our results have shown the accuracy of context feature learning under a PSN-based multi-walker monitoring scenario.
Defining search success: evaluation of searcher performance in digital libraries

It is a common belief--and empirical data provides supporting evidence--that some people are more proficient in performing online searches than others (Borgman, 1989; Fenichel, 1980-81; Saracevic and Kantor, 1988; Trivison et al., 1986). Precision, the proportion of the retrieved documents that are relevant to the query, and recall, the proportion of the relevant documents that were retrieved by a particular query, are the measures generally used to evaluate differences in search performance. In addition, measures of search term overlap and search efficiency are sometimes reported.
Ecological and genetic models of host-pathogen coevolution

A model is presented to analyse the forces that maintain genetic polymorphism in interactions between host plants and their pathogens. Genetic variability in hosts occurs for specific resistance to different pathogen races and variability in pathogens occurs for specific virulence to different host races. The model tracks both fluctuating population sizes and changing gene frequencies. Analyses over a range of parameters show that ecological and demographic factors, such as birth and death rates, often have a more profound effect on the amount of polymorphism than genetic parameters, such as the pleiotropic costs of resistance and virulence associated with different alleles. A series of simple measures are proposed to predict the amount of genetic polymorphism expected in particular host-pathogen interactions. These measures can be used to develop and test a comparative theory of genetic polymorphism in host-pathogen coevolution.
The influence of thyroxine on oxygen consumption of tissues from the frog Rana pipiens.

Abstract Sixteen leopard frogs received daily injections of Na- l -thyroxine (2.0 μg/10 g body weight) for 5 days; and 18 control animals received daily injections of the vehicle. During the period of treatment, all frogs were maintained at a constant temperature of 25°C. At the end of the fifth day, metabolism of liver slices and of skeletal muscle was determined at 25°C by differential respirometry. The mean oxygen uptake of liver samples from hyperthyroid frogs was higher than that of liver preparations from control animals. Additionally, liver tissue from female frogs exhibited a higher mean rate of metabolism than preparations from males, irrespective of treatment. Preparations of skeletal muscle did not survive well during experimentation. The data indicate that increased metabolism of intact, hyperthyroid frogs is attributable to a direct response of peripheral tissues to circulating hormone, and lend support to the concept that the thyroid glands of adult anurans exercise important control over intermediary metabolism.
Emotional Problems Suppress Disorder/Performance Associations in Adult ADHD Assessment

Issues related to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are commonly assessed using a combination of indicators, including patient report and performance on cognitive tasks. The current study investigates the potential that emotional problems may suppress the relationship between objective continuous performance test (CPT) results and ADHD symptoms in a sample of 53 young adults referred to an outpatient clinic for cognitive evaluations, 26 of whom met diagnostic criteria for ADHD. Data indicate that emotional problems and continuous performance represent unique elements of adult ADHD, whether assessed via interview or self-report. Results also indicate that emotional problems do suppress CPT–ADHD relations, suggesting that failure to control for emotional problems may account, in part, for modest associations in the literature between CPT performance and other indicators of ADHD.
The influence of time, storage temperature, and substrate age on potential soil enzyme activity in acidic forest soils using MUB-linked substrates and L-DOPA.

The purpose of this experiment was to evaluate whether soil storage and processing methods significantly influence measurements of potential in situ enzyme activity in acidic forest soils. More specifically, the objectives were to determine if: (1) duration and temperature of soil storage; (2) duration of soil slurry in buffer; and (3) age of model substrates significantly influence the activity of six commonly measured soil extracellular enzymes using methylumbelliferone (MUB)-linked substrates and l-dihydroxyphenylalanine (l-DOPA). Soil collected and analyzed for enzyme activity within 2 h was considered the best measure of potential in situ enzyme activity and the benchmark for all statistical comparisons. Sub-samples of the same soil were stored at either 4 °C or −20 °C. In addition to the temperature manipulation, soils experienced two more experimental treatments. First, enzyme activity was analyzed 2, 7, 14, and 21 days after collection. Second, MUB-linked substrate was added immediately (i.e. <20 min) or 2 h after mixing soil with buffer. Enzyme activity of soil stored at 4 °C was not significantly different from soil stored at −20 °C. The duration of soil storage was minimal for β-glucosidase, β-xylosidase, and peroxidase activity. N-acetyl-glucosaminidase (NAGase), phosphatase, and phenol oxidase activity appeared to change the most when compared to fresh soils, but the direction of change varied. Likewise, the activities of these enzymes were most sensitive to extended time in buffer. Fluorometric MUB and MUB-linked substrates generally had a 3-day shelf life before they start to significantly suppress reported activities when kept at 4 °C. These findings suggest that the manner in which acidic forest soils are stored and processed are site and enzyme specific and should not initially be trivialized when conducting enzyme assays focusing on NAGase, phosphatase, and phenol oxidase. The activities of β-glucosidase, β-xylosidase, and peroxidase are insensitive to storage and processing methods.
The imposition of linear constraints upon eigenvalue problems

A simple method of imposing linear constraints upon an eigenvalue problem is described that reduces the dimension of the problem by the number of constraints imposed. Several applications are outlined.
Creep in Single Fibres of American Delta Cotton

The constant stress elongation or creep of single filaments of American Delta cotton, crop of 1935-36, has been measured at relative humidities ranging from 0% to 100% and at a temperature of 28° C. The cotton is similar to the rayons of the cuprammonium and acetate types in that for certain, ranges the extension, e = k log t +c, but the constant k tends towards smaller values with increasing time, while in the acetate rayon the reverse is true.
Acute supraglottitis in adults: Early indicators of airway obstruction

Abstract Purpose: To show that cardinal signs of upper airway obstruction are characteristically absent in the early phases of potentially fatal supraglottitis. Patients and Methods: The hospital records of 9 previously healthy adults who died from autopsy-proven supraglottitis within 12 hours after sudden onset of severe sore throat. Results: Six patients who were discharged from the emergency room with a diagnosis of pharyngitis died at home within 4 hours after dismissal. Three patients suspected of supraglottitis were admitted and treated medically; by the time signs of respiratory obstruction appeared, attempts at airway intervention failed. None of the 9 patients presented with symptoms or signs of respiratory distress, but all gave a history of fulminant sore throat associated with chills and fever. In all patients, the pulse rate was above 100 per minute. Conclusion: In the early phases of acute supraglottitis, the most reliable indicator of impending airway obstruction is a rapidly developing severe sore throat. Dyspnea, tachypnea, retractions, stridor, and cyanosis are manifestations of advanced stages of the infection and should not be awaited to determine the need for airway intervention.
Sampling ecological information: Choice of sample size

Abstract Factors that significantly affect sample statistics obtained from ecological measurements need to be identified. We used a computer simulation to examine the effects of sample size on the mean and variance for four frequency distributions of the attribute of interest. The kurtosis of the underlying distribution affects fluctuations in the sample mean as the number of samples increases. For large sizes, the sample mean of the lognormal distribution is less than the population mean because of the skewness of that distribution. The standard error-to-mean ratio, kurtosis and skewness can be used as guides to suggest the appropriate number of samples to adequately characterize the true distribution.
Post-translational protein modification by carotenoid cleavage products

Carotenoids are known to generate various aldehydes, known as carotenoid-derived aldehydes (CDAs), which could efficiently react with protein or DNA. In this in vitro model study, interaction between CDA and protein has been studied. Various proteins were incubated with CDA, and protein modification and adduct formation were confirmed by using matrix-assisted laser desorption and ionization time-of-flight, amino acid analysis, and measuring enzyme activity on modification with CDA. Using radiolabeled NaB((3) H)H(4) and Raney nickel as well as sulfhydryl assay (Ellman's reagent), we confirmed that CDA could conjugate with cysteine through a thioether linkage. The carbonyl assay using 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine revealed the possible involvement of Schiff's base reaction between CDA and lysine. The adducts formed between β-apo-8-carotenal (BA8C) and N-acetylcysteine and BA8C and N-acetyllysine were confirmed by HPLC and ESI-MS. Our results suggest that CDA could alter protein function by post-translational interaction with cysteine and lysine by thioether linkage and by schiff's based bonds, respectively. Thus, the formation of CDA adducts with proteins could alter functional properties of proteins responsible for maintaining cell homeostasis and thereby cause cellular toxicity. In view of these observations, further studies are required to understand the delicate balance between beneficial and/or harmful effects of carotenoids as a dietary supplement to slow age-related macular degeneration progression.
Proportion of patients in a congestive heart failure care management program meeting criteria for cardiac resynchronization therapy

Among 1,138 patients in our congestive heart failure care management database, 37 (3.2%) met guideline criteria for cardiac resynchronization therapy. Advancing age was a predictor of prolonged QRS duration in this population, but gender, ejection fraction (EF) and cause of heart failure were not. There was a trend toward an inverse correlation between QRS duration and EF among patients with EF ≤35%.
A biochemical characterization of the adeno-associated virus Rep40 helicase.

Abstract The human adeno-associated virus (AAV) has generated much enthusiasm as a transfer vector for human gene therapy. Although clinical gene therapy trials have been initiated using AAV vectors, much remains to be learned regarding the basic mechanisms of virus replication, gene expression, and virion assembly. AAV encodes four nonstructural, or replication (Rep), proteins. The Rep78 and Rep68 proteins regulate viral DNA replication, chromosomal integration, and gene expression. The Rep52 and Rep40 proteins mediate virus assembly. To better understand Rep protein function, we have expressed the Rep40 protein in Escherichia coli and purified it to near homogeneity. Like the other Rep proteins, Rep40 possesses helicase and ATPase activity. ATP is the best substrate, and Mg2+ is the most efficient divalent metal ion for helicase activity. A Lys to His mutation in the purine nucleotide-binding site results in a protein that inhibits helicase activity in a dominant negative manner. Rep40 unwinds double-stranded DNA containing a 3′ single-stranded end, or blunt end, unlike the Rep68 and Rep52 enzymes, which have a strict requirement for DNA duplexes containing a 3′ single-stranded end. Values for KATP in the ATPase assay are 1.1 ± 0.2 mm and 1.2 ± 0.2 mm in the absence and presence, respectively, of single-stranded DNA. Values for Vmax are 220 ± 10 and 1,500 ± 90 nmol/min/mg in the absence and presence, respectively, of single-stranded DNA. These studies provide the first enzymatic characterization of the AAV Rep40 protein and elucidate important functional differences between the AAV helicases.
Computer simulation—discussion of the technique and comparison of languages

The purpose of this paper is to present a comparison of some computer simulation languages and of some of the packages by which each is implemented. Some considerations involved in comparing software packages for digital computers are discussed in Part I. The issue is obvious: users of digital computers must choose from available languages or write their own. Substantial costs can occur, particularly in training, implementation and computer time if an inappropriate language is chosen. More and more computer simulation languages are being developed: comparisons and evaluations of existing languages are useful for designers and implementers as well as users.The second part is devoted to computer simulation and simulation languages. The computational characteristics of simulation are discussed with special attention being paid to a distinction between continuous and discrete change models. Part III presents a detailed comparison of six simulation languages and packages: SIMSCRIPT, CLP, CSL, GASP, GPSS and SOL. The characteristics of each are summarized in a series of tables. The implications of this analysis for designers of languages, for users, and for implementers are developed.The conclusion of the paper is that the packages now available for computer simulation offer features which none of the more general-purpose packages do and that analysis of strengths and weaknesses of each suggests ways in which both current and future simulation languages and packages can be improved.
Management of water resources of the Nile Basin

SUMMARY A water crisis is looming in the Nile Basin in the near future due to higher population growth rates, greater affluence, and higher demand for water by agriculture and industry. There is no basin-wide agreement among the ten Nile Basin states and the existing rules of international water management are complicated and are not equipped to handle any future water conflicts in the Nile Basin. This paper reviews the existing water sharing arrangements among the Nile Basin countries, examines areas of potential conflict over future water use, and suggests possible areas of cooperation that will ensure equitable use of the Nile waters. The paper concludes by (1) appealing for formulation of good water development policies to deal with growing water needs such as water quality protection, efficiency of water delivery and efficiency of water use; and (2) calling for human resources development and technology transfers that are critical for good management and efficient use of the water resources of the Nile.