cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Financial deepening and stock market returns: panel data analyses for selected developed and developing economies

This paper analyses the effects of stock market turnover and liquidity, as measures of financial deepening, on stock market returns in selected 19 developed and 21 developing countries over 1988-2014 by implementing Pedroni's panel cointegration methodology and panel vector error-correction models. Stock market turnover contributes more to stock market returns than stock market liquidity in both selected developed and developing economies. However, the results are much weaker for developing countries than for developed countries.
Real-Time Big Data Delivery in Wireless Networks: A Case Study on Video Delivery

The huge volume of contents generated from mobile ends has dramatically contributed to big data. Unfortunately, current packet scheduling policies in wireless networks for the underlying big data delivery greatly hinder the utilization of the contents. Specifically, the delivery of real-time big data requires running-time interactions with users, as well as variable bandwidth consumptions to maintain fine user experience. There is no previous work designed for this kind of traffic. To mitigate this gap, a thorough-designed scheduling policy to assign and organize detailed packet transmissions for real-time big data is desired. This paper takes video delivery as a case study, which dominates the current real-time traffic and can be easily extended to other scenarios. We propose a novel scheduling policy, which assigns a proper number of video requests to servers and allocates bandwidth to these requests in a relatively small time scale. It helps with serving more users without compromising user experience of the current ones. We also prove that the scheduling policy has a guaranteed performance on the total number of served requests. Finally, the simulation results demonstrate that our scheduling policy outperforms other state-of-art methods significantly.
Sequential pursuit of multiple targets under external disturbances via Zermelo–Voronoi diagrams ☆

Abstract We address the problem of pursuit between a collection of targets and a team of pursuers distributed in the plane subject to an environmental disturbance (e.g., wind, sea current). The objective of the pursuers is to intercept the moving targets which, however, are not affected by the presence of the flow field. We first solve the multiple-pursuers/single-target problem by assigning only one pursuer to chase the target at every instant of time, based on a Voronoi-like partition of the plane. During the pursuit, the pursuer assignment changes dynamically based on this partition. We then present an algorithm to efficiently update this Voronoi-like partition on-line. The results are then extended to the multiple-pursuers/multiple-targets case. Simulations are included to illustrate the theoretical results.
Capillarity Composited Recycled Paper/Graphene Scaffold for Lithium–Sulfur Batteries with Enhanced Capacity and Extended Lifespan

An effective strategy to tackle the twin crises of global deforestation and fossil fuel depletion is to recycle biomass materials for energy storage devices. This study reports a unique and innovative solution to capitalize on a currently overlooked resource to produce high-performance lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries from recycled paper. The recycled paper fibers are creatively composited with graphene oxide sheets via a capillary adsorption method. The recycled paper/graphene oxide hybrid is then converted to activated paper carbon/reduced graphene oxide (APC/graphene) scaffold for sulfur infiltration. The assembled Li–APC/graphene/S battery exhibits a superior lifespan of 620 cycles with an excellent capacity retention rate of 60.5%. An APC interlayer is sandwiched between the Li anode and the separator to suppress the degradation of Li anode by preventing the nonhomogeneous growth of mossy Li whiskers, stretching the battery lifespan up to 1000 cycles with a capacitance retention rate of 52.3%. The capillary adsorption method coupled with the porous carbonaceous anode interlayer configuration creates a new opportunity for the development of batteries derived from porous biomass materials.
The vascular endothelial specific IL-4 receptor alpha–ABL1 kinase signaling axis regulates the severity of IgE-mediated anaphylactic reactions

Background Severe IgE-mediated, food-induced anaphylactic reactions are characterized by pulmonary venous vasodilatation and fluid extravasation, which are thought to lead to the life-threatening anaphylactic phenotype. The underlying immunologic and cellular processes involved in driving fluid extravasation and the severe anaphylactic phenotype are not fully elucidated. Objective We sought to define the interaction and requirement of IL-4 and vascular endothelial (VE) IL-4 receptor α chain (IL-4Rα) signaling in histamine-abelson murine leukemia viral oncogene homology 1 (ABL1)–mediated VE dysfunction and fluid extravasation in the severity of IgE-mediated anaphylactic reactions in mice. Methods Mice deficient in VE IL-4Rα and models of passive and active oral antigen– and IgE-induced anaphylaxis were used to define the requirements of the VE IL-4Rα and ABL1 pathway in severe anaphylactic reactions. The human VE cell line (EA.hy926 cells) and pharmacologic (imatinib) and genetic (short hairpin RNA knockdown of IL4RA and ABL1 ) approaches were used to define the requirement of this pathway in VE barrier dysfunction. Results IL-4 exacerbation of histamine-induced hypovolemic shock in mice was dependent on VE expression of IL-4Rα. IL-4– and histamine-induced ABL1 activation in human VE cells and VE barrier dysfunction was ABL1-dependent. Development of severe IgE-mediated hypovolemia and shock required VE-restricted ABL1 expression. Treatment of mice with a history of food-induced anaphylaxis with the ABL kinase inhibitor imatinib protected the mice from severe IgE-mediated anaphylaxis. Conclusion IL-4 amplifies IgE- and histamine-induced VE dysfunction, fluid extravasation, and the severity of anaphylaxis through a VE IL-4Rα/ABL1–dependent mechanism. These studies implicate an important contribution by the VE compartment in the severity of anaphylaxis and identify a new pathway for therapeutic intervention of IgE-mediated reactions.
Deep Brain Stimulation-Related Infections: Analysis of Rates, Timing, and Seasonality.

Background Infection is one of the most common complications of deep brain stimulation (DBS). Long-term infection rates beyond the immediate postoperative period are rarely evaluated. Objective To study short- and long-term DBS-related infection rates; to evaluate any potential seasonality associated with DBS-related infections. Methods We retrospectively reviewed all DBS surgeries performed in a 5-yr period at 1 hospital by a single surgeon. Infection rates and clinical characteristics were analyzed. Postoperative "infections" were defined as occurring within 6 mo of implantation of DBS hardware, while "erosions" were defined as transcutaneous exposure of hardware at ≥6 mo after implantation. Based on the date of surgery preceding an infection, rates of infection were calculated on a monthly and seasonal basis and compared using Chi square and logistic regression analyses. Results A total of 443 patients underwent 592 operations; 311 patients underwent primary DBS placement with 632 electrodes. Primary DBS placement infection incidence was 2.6%. DBS procedure infection and infection rate by electrode were 2.9% and 3.2%, respectively. Infectious complications presented later than 6 mo postoperatively in 38% of infected patients Summer (July-September) infection rate was significantly higher than other seasons (P = .002). The odds ratio of an infection related to a surgery performed in August was found to be 4.15 compared to other months (P = .021). Conclusion There is a persistent risk of DBS infection and erosion beyond the first year of DBS implantation. Start of the academic year was associated with increased infection rate at our institution.
Resisting the Temptation of Moral Formation: Opening to Spiritual Formation in the Cross and the Spirit:

There are many dedicated Christians who are in the grips of a great moral temptation, which attempts to deal with spiritual failure, guilt and shame by means of spiritual effort and disciplines in ...
Sex-dependent outcomes following elective endovascular aortic repair.

Abstract Background Evidence has shown that women derive less benefit from endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) in large part due to more challenging aortoiliac anatomy. This study sought to examine whether sex-dependent outcomes exist following elective EVAR cases. Methods An institutional retrospective review was performed on patients who underwent elective EVAR procedures between 2008 and 2014. Outcome data collected included procedural and hospital morbidity, mortality, and overall EVAR durability based on the incidence of unplanned graft-related secondary interventions (SIs) (e.g., open conversion, proximal or distal extensions, and coil embolizations). Results One hundred eighty-one patients (150 men, 31 women) met the study inclusion criteria. Median follow-up was 40.3 mo. Women had more challenging anatomy compared to men including smaller overall iliac diameters (6.8 mm versus 8.0 mm, P Conclusions In this study, immediate outcomes following EVAR were different between men and women, with women having increased rates of postoperative complications. Mortality and overall long-term durability of EVAR, however, were the same between sexes despite anatomical differences. EVAR durability was significantly dependent on the severity of iliac tortuosity, aortic neck angulation, and presence of endoleak at the follow-up.
A technique for translation from problem to code

Students in introductory programming courses struggle with how to turn a problem statement into code. We introduce a technique, ``The Seven Steps,'' that provides structure and guidance on how to approach a problem. The first four steps focus on devising an algorithm in words, then the remaining steps are to translate that algorithm to code, test the algorithm, and debug failed test cases. This approach not only gives students a way to solve problems, but also ideas for what to do if they get stuck during the process. Furthermore, it provides a way for instructors to work examples in class that focus on the process of devising the code---instructors can show how to come up with the code, rather than just showing an example. We have used this technique in several introductory programming courses---both in the classroom and online. We describe this technique and results from its use in fall 2017 courses.
The Collection, Processing, and Display of Digital Three-Dimensional Images of Biological Specimens

In general, the study and analysis of biological structure requires a three-dimensional (3D) imaging capability. Dramatic technical advances have now made it possible to record 3D microscopic images of biological specimens using either electron or light microscopy. While the collection of 3D data sets has now become routine, the analysis and interpretation of these images generally require significant time and effort. This is true, in part, because each type of image seems to require a specific set of processing algorithms and parameters. In addition, the software tools required for extracting useful information from the resulting complicated multidimensional data sets (e.g., three spatial dimensions, time, different components) are not completely developed. Computational image processing provides a powerful approach for reducing the systematic errors present in any 3D data set and enhancing the clarity and contrast of relevant features.
Security for real-world networked applications

It is commonly believed that systems that are not designed with security aspects in mind are difficult to secure later. This thesis argues that there are many situations in which security aspects can be retrofitted into such systems without significant effort, or impact to users of these systems. In support of this thesis we consider three broad computer system areas: data communication, addressing (name lookup), and data storage. These aspects are by no means new, and in fact are core components of any networked computer system. First, we present Datagram Transport Security Layer (DTLS), a protocol that can be used for securing unreliable datagram transport such as UDP. Prior to DTLS, the standard options available to a system designer were SSL/TLS or IPsec, neither of which are well suited for securing delay sensitive applications such as Internet telephony. DTLS is based on the TLS protocol and consequently provides a familiar programming model. DTLS was adopted by the IETF as RFC 4347. Second, we, present P2Pns, a fully-distributed name service. Traditional name services, such as DNS, are centralized in two important respects: (1) authority - the question of who gets assigned a name, and (2) distribution - the question of how a name database is distributed. Both of these aspects have been receiving scrutiny - authority because ICANN (the governing body overseeing DNS) is seen to have too much influence over the running of DNS, and distribution following denial of service attacks on the DNS root servers. P2Pns runs over a distributed hash table and allows panics to be multiply registered. Conflicts are resolved via a resolution algorithm that, in most situations, is capable of determining the earliest registration. Finally, we present the design of SiRiUS, a secure filesystem. SiRiUS enables users to store data on a remote untrusted server, without requiring modification to server software or configuration. The data thus stored can be shared between groups of the owner's choosing, without relying on the server to enforce access control. Previous secure filesystems have either placed trust in the remote file server, or if not, fail to provide mechanisms for sharing files.
Postoperative stereotactic radiosurgery for patients with resected brain metastases: a volumetric analysis.

Postoperative stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is increasingly utilized following resection of brain metastases (BM); however, there are no volumetric data guiding dose selection. We performed a volumetric analysis to guide cavity SRS dosing for resected BM. 83 consecutive patients with gross total resection who underwent postoperative SRS to 90 cavities were identified. The 12 Gy isodose lines (V12total) along with the volume of brain parenchyma receiving 12 Gy excluding cavity fluid, ventricular fluid, and calvarium (V12parenchyma) were contoured. Local recurrence (LR) and radionecrosis (RN) were calculated using cumulative incidence rates. Multivariate analysis (MVA) and cutpoint analysis were conducted. Median follow-up was 12.3 months; median dose was 16 Gy. 1- and 2-year cumulative incidence rates of LR were 7.9% and 11.0%. Radiation dose [hazard ratio (HR) 2.04, p = 0.002] was significantly associated with time to LR on MVA. 1- and 2-year cumulative incidence rates of RN were 2.6% and 5.5% respectively. MVA demonstrated increased risk of RN with a larger V12parenchyma (HR 1.46, p = 0.0496). Cavities ≤ 10 cc showed a low 2-year RN risk (4.3%), but had a modest LR risk (13.9%). A radiation dose ≥ 18 Gy significantly improved LC (HR 4.79, p = 0.01). V12parenchyma should be examined in postoperative SRS to assess RN risk. Cavities > 10 cc treated with 16 Gy achieved excellent LC and minimal RN at 2 years. Cavities ≤ 10 cc may be better treated with a dose ≥ 18 Gy to significantly improve LC given the low RN rate observed with 16 Gy.
Clinical implications of identifying pathogenic variants in aortic dissection patients with whole exome sequencing

Background: Thoracic aortic dissection is an emergent life-threatening condition. Routine screening for genetic variants causing thoracic aortic dissection is not currently performed for patients or their family members. Methods: We performed whole exome sequencing of 240 patients with thoracic aortic dissection (n=235) or rupture (n=5) and 258 controls matched for age, sex, and ancestry. Blinded to case-control status, we annotated variants in 11 genes for pathogenicity. Results: Twenty-four pathogenic variants in 6 genes (COL3A1, FBN1, LOX, PRKG1, SMAD3, TGFBR2) were identified in 26 individuals, representing 10.8% of aortic cases and 0% of controls. Among dissection cases, we compared those with pathogenic variants to those without and found that pathogenic variant carriers had significantly earlier onset of dissection (41 vs. 57 years), higher rates of root aneurysm (54% vs. 30%), less hypertension (15% vs. 57%), lower rates of smoking (19% vs. 45%), and greater incidence of aortic disease in family members. Multivariable logistic regression showed significant risk factors associated with pathogenic variants are age <50 [odds ratio (OR) = 5.5; 95% CI: 1.6-19.7], no history of hypertension (OR=5.6; 95% CI: 1.4-22.3) and family history of aortic disease (mother: OR=5.7; 95% CI: 1.4-22.3, siblings: OR=5.1; 95% CI 1.1-23.9, children: OR=6.0; 95% CI: 1.4-26.7). Conclusions: Clinical genetic testing of known hereditary thoracic aortic dissection genes should be considered in patients with aortic dissection, followed by cascade screening of family members, especially in patients with age-of-onset of aortic dissection <50 years old, family history of aortic disease, and no history of hypertension.
Defining Cognitive Reserve and Implications for Cognitive Aging.

The aim of this review is to summarize current conceptual models of cognitive reserve (CR) and related concepts and to discuss evidence for these concepts within the context of aging and Alzheimer’s disease. Evidence to date supports the notion that higher levels of CR, as measured by proxy variables reflective of lifetime experiences, are associated with better cognitive performance, and with a reduced risk of incident mild cognitive impairment/dementia. However, the impact of CR on longitudinal cognitive trajectories is unclear and may be influenced by a number of factors. Although there is promising evidence that some proxy measures of CR may influence structural brain measures, more research is needed. The protective effects of CR may provide an important mechanism for preserving cognitive function and cognitive well-being with age, in part because it can be enhanced throughout the lifespan. However, more research on the mechanisms by which CR is protective is needed.
Flag on the Play: Colin Kaepernick and the Protest Paradigm

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick’s decision to protest the national anthem of the United States by taking a knee sparked widespread attention, much of it negative. This research exa...
The adaptive cycle: More than a metaphor

Abstract The adaptive cycle and its extension to panarchy (nested adaptive cycles) has been a useful metaphor and conceptual model for understanding long-term dynamics of change in ecological and social–ecological systems. We argue that adaptive cycles are ubiquitous in complex adaptive systems because they reflect endogenously generated dynamics as a result of processes of self-organization and evolution. We synthesize work from a wide array of fields to support this claim. If dynamics of growth, conservation, collapse and renewal are endogenous dynamics of complex adaptive systems, then there ought to be signals of system change over time that reflect this. We describe a series of largely thermodynamically based indicators that have been developed for this purpose, and we add a critical and heretofore missing component–namely, that of understanding dynamics of change (adaptive cycles) at objectively identified spatial and temporal scales nested within each system, instead of solely at the system level. The explicit consideration of scales, when coupled with selective indicators, may circumvent the need for multiple indicators to capture system dynamics and will provide a richer picture of system trajectory than that offered by a single-scale analysis. We describe feasible ways in which researchers could systematically and quantitatively look for signatures of adaptive cycle dynamics at scales within ecosystems, rather than relying on metaphor and largely qualitative descriptions.
What Do Economists Have to Say about the Clean Air Act 50 Years after the Establishment of the Environmental Protection Agency

Air quality in the United States has improved dramatically over the past 50 years in large part due to the introduction of the Clean Air Act and the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency to enforce it. This article is a reflection on the 50-year anniversary of the formation of the Environmental Protection Agency, describing what economic research says about the ways in which the Clean Air Act has shaped our society—in terms of costs, benefits, and important distributional concerns. We conclude with a discussion of how recent changes to both policy and technology present new opportunities for researchers in this area.
JUST A MINUTE: THE EFFECT OF EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT WAIT TIME ON THE COST OF CARE

Wait times are rising in U.S. emergency departments (EDs). The longer a patient waits to be seen, the more their condition may worsen. Notably, patients in worse condition can cost more to care for. This study estimates the effect of ED wait time on the cost of care by exploiting the quasi‐random assignment of patients to triage nurses in an instrumental variables framework. The results suggest that prolonging the wait of a patient who arrives with a serious condition by 10 minutes will increase the hospital's cost to care for the patient by an average of 6%. The magnitude of this effect dissipates (fading to zero) among patients who arrive with less serious conditions.(JEL D24, H41, I10)
Between supercritical liquids and gases – Reconciling dynamic and thermodynamic state transitions

Abstract Experimental, computational, and theoretical results have shown that the notion of a homogeneous supercritical state space has to be replaced with distinct liquid-like and gas-like regions, divided by a cross-over line. Several such cross-over lines have been proposed, such as the Frenkel line, the Fisher-Widom line, and the Widom line. We use thermodynamics arguments, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, and experimental data to investigate the relation between these lines. This work proposes a new interpretation of the Widom line based on the curvature of the Gibbs free energy, showing that the supercritical cross-over can be evaluated as a projection of the subcritical phase transition from a liquid to an ideal gas state to supercritical conditions. We show that the cross-over across the Widom line should not be regarded as instantaneous, but instead as spreading over a finite temperature interval. The thermodynamic character of the Widom line becomes negligible at reduced pressures p/pcr > 3 and disappears completely at higher pressures p/pcr > 10. We find evidence that measured transitions attributed to the Widom line do in fact match the Frenkel line better. In this way, we suggest a consistent view of the supercritical state space and resolve apparent contradictions.
Danielson’s Framework for Teaching: Convergence and Divergence With Conceptions of Effectiveness in Special Education:

Danielson's Framework for Teaching (FFT) is currently used in more than 20 states to inform teacher evaluation and professional learning. To investigate whether FFT promotes instruction that appropriately responds to the needs of students with learning disabilities, we conduct a systematic content analysis of the instructional approach emphasized in the FFT's Instructional Domain (Domain 3) of Danielson's FFT. We frame our study using cognitive load theory and research regarding effective instruction for students with disabilities. We end by discussing implications regarding the evaluation and development of effective teaching for students with learning disabilities.
Religion and Attitudes toward Childlessness in the United States

Attitudes toward childlessness have received little attention from social scientists even as childlessness as a family form has become more popular. One key predictor of childlessness attitudes is ...
Electoral incentives and elite racial identification: Why Brazilian politicians change their race

Abstract Scholars recognize that individuals change how they racially identify themselves over time and even from situation to situation. Politicians, however, are typically presumed to have stable, innate racial identities. In this article, I contend that politicians strategically change their self-professed race in response to electoral incentives. Using original data from Brazilian elections, I show that more than a quarter of the political candidates that competed in Brazil’s 2014 and 2016 elections changed their publicly declared race from one election to the next. My analysis indicates the racial composition of the electorate and the electoral rules that govern competition affect patterns of racial change. These results suggest that candidates “racially position” themselves as members of the racial group that provides the greatest electoral rewards. This strategic behavior calls into question extant theories which assume elite racial group membership is fixed and exogenous to electoral outcomes.
Surface Ordering of MBE Grown 001 Ga

The kinetics of MBE growth of Ga1-x.,Alx,As is studied theoretically using the stochastic model of MBE growth based on the master equation approach and the random distribution approximation. The surface ordering phenomenon during the 001 growth of Ga0.5Al0.5 As is investigated as a function of the growth conditions. The atom pair interaction energy parameters for various surface configurations were obtained from the first principle calculations. The other model parameters needed in the description of the kinetic processes are obtained from the available experimental data. The ordering kinetics is studied as a function of fluxes, flux ratio and growth temperature. The degree of ordering is estimated in terms of the short range order parameter. The short range order parameter increases with temperature till 650°K and 750°K for cation to anion flux ratios 2: 1 and 1: 5, respectively. Beyond this critical temperature, the short range order parameter decreases. This critical temperature is identified as the kinetic order-disorder temperature. The order-disorder phenomenon observed in this theoretical study is explained in terms of the dependence of the surface migration rate of the cations on the growth temperature. The dependence on the order-disorder temperature on the flux ratio is attributed to decreased surface migration for larger flux ratios.
Loose and baled corn cob management and storage in field effects on subsequent crop growth and soil health

xii CHAPTER 1 GENERAL INTRODUCTION 1 Thesis Organization 4 References.... 5 CHAPTER 2 LOOSE AND BALED CORN COB RESIDUE EFFECTS ON PLANT DEVELOPMENT AND PRODCUCTIVITY 7 Abstract 7 Introduction 10 Materials and Methods 12 Results and Discussion 22 Conclusions.... 34 References...... 37 CHAPTER 3 CORN COB RESIDUE MANAGEMENT EFFECT ON SOIL HEALTH 61 Abstract 6
Demonstration of a Human Atrial Natriuretic Peptide-Like Material in the Stable Fly, Stomoxys Calcitrans

Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) is a peptide first reported in humans (hANP) and later in other mammals (Flynn, et al., 1987). More recently, similar peptides have been isolated from lower vertebrates (Miyata, et al., 1988; Sakata, et al., 1988). Although the precise mechanism of action of this peptide is not well understood, the gross effects when administered in these animals are vasodilation and increases in the rates of excretion of water and electrolytes, particularly sodium. The mammalian ANP’s are extremely well conserved 28 amino acid peptides with only one amino acid substitution at the 12th position. Due to my interest in stable fly diuresis, I decided to examine the possible existence of similar peptides in this insect. In this communication I shall report evidence for the presence of hANP-immunoreactivity in the stable fly.
Digestive Activity of Lysosomes II. THE DIGESTION OF MACROMOLECULAR CARBOHYDRATES BY EXTRACTS OF RAT LIVER LYSOSOMES

The ability of liver lysosomes to degrade hyaluronic acid and glycoproteins has been investigated. Purified liver lysosomes, prepared from rats previously treated, by injection, with Triton WR-1339, were incubated with the substrates at acid pH and 37°. Hyaluronic acid was degraded to the extent of about 85% to an equimolecular mixture of glucuronic acid and N-acetylglucosamine, with 15% of the molecule remaining in the form of hyalobiuronic acid, which proved resistant to attack by the lysosomal mixture of enzymes. With orosomucoid and fetuin as substrates, cleavage of about half the peptide bonds and removal of the larger part of the sialyl end groups of the carbohydrate chains occurred rapidly. This was followed more slowly by the release of galactose and of N-acetylglucosamine, which, however, did not exceed 30% of the theoretical yield under the conditions tried. Mannose could not be detected in the hydrolysis mixture. Apparently, considerable resistance to digestion occurs at or near the branching points in the carbohydrate portions of these glycoproteins. With submaxillary mucin as substrate, up to 80% of the disaccharide side chains were split off in the form of free N-acetylneuraminic acid and N-acetylgalactosamine. Peptide hydrolysis did not start until about half the carbohydrate portion had been removed, and then proceeded slowly, reaching 30% of theoretical yield at the end of the incubation period. Some 60% of the mannose residues were detached from ovalbumin glycopeptides. Thus, lysosomes can extensively degrade both the carbohydrate and the peptide portions of glycoproteins, but may lack the ability to bring their digestion to completion, at least with some substrates.
Interference of Bose-Einstein condensates split with an atom chip

We have used a microfabricated atom chip to split a single Bose-Einstein condensate of sodium atoms into two spatially separated condensates. Dynamical splitting was achieved by deforming the trap along the tightly confining direction into a purely magnetic double-well potential. We observed the matter wave interference pattern formed upon releasing the condensates from the microtraps. The intrinsic features of the quartic potential at the merge point, such as zero trap frequency and extremely high field-sensitivity, caused random variations of the relative phase between the two split condensates. Moreover, the perturbation from the abrupt change of the trapping potential during the splitting was observed to induce vortices.
Sensitivity of patients with familial cerebral cavernous malformations to therapeutic radiation

Familial cerebral cavernous malformations are autosomal dominant conditions that can result in significant morbidity. A two-hit mechanism is accepted as likely responsible for formation of these malformations. We present two patients with this disease who received therapeutic radiation and developed very high numbers of malformations within the radiation ports, supporting radiation as an accelerator of lesion formation and suggesting implications for risks of radiation in this disease.
Laser Direct Machining – Diversity is Key

Lasers are now used to directly machine microstructures and surface patterns in a wide range of materials including plastics, metals and semiconductors. The laser is chosen because it often reduces the number of production steps, delivers superior results, or enables greener processes – making it an ideal tool for volume manufacturing in an increasingly environmentally sensitive world. This article examines just a few representative laser-based processes and outlines the key laser characteristics for each.
Nanowire Quantum Effects in Trigate SOI MOSFETs

This paper describes low-dimensional nanowire quantum effects that occur in small trigate SOI MOSFETs. 2D numerical simulation is used to calculate the electron concentration profile as a function of gate voltage in devices with different cross sections. The smaller the section, the higher the threshold voltage. A dynamic increase of threshold voltage with electron concentration is observed. Inter-subband scattering causes oscillations of the transconductance when measured as a function of the gate voltage. These oscillations are visible at low temperature (< 30K) in samples with a 45 × 82nm cross section and at room temperature in devices with a 11nm × 48nm cross section.
The Early Eocene Rodent Tuscahomys (Cylindrodontidae) from the Great Divide Basin, Wyoming: Phylogeny, Biogeography, and Paleoecology

ABSTRACT A new species of the cylindrodontid rodent Tuscahomys Dawson and Beard, 2007, is very well represented by maxillary, mandibular, and dental remains from the late early Wasatchian Smiley Draw local fauna in the Great Divide Basin of Sweetwater County, Wyoming. Tuscahomys walshi , new species, is more derived than earlier Wasatchian members of the genus in showing greater lingual hypsodonty on its upper cheek teeth and a more discrete hypocone on P4, but less derived than its Bridgerian relative Mysops Leidy, 1871, in having less lingually hypsodont upper cheek teeth and a less trenchant protoloph on P4. Tuscahomys walshi thus partly fills a previously existing gap in the early fossil record of cylindrodontids. Tuscahomys shows an unusual pattern of faunal association and relative abundance. It typically occurs as a surprisingly common element of some, but by no means all, early Wasatchian faunas, and it frequently co-occurs with the “condylarths” Meniscotherium Cope, 1874, and Haplomylus Matthew, ...
Evaluating the Jaccard-Tanimoto Index on Multi-core Architectures

The Jaccard/Tanimoto coefficient is an important workload, used in a large variety of problems including drug design fingerprinting, clustering analysis, similarity web searching and image segmentation. This paper evaluates the Jaccard coefficient on three platforms: the Cell Broadband EngineTMprocessor Intel ®Xeon ®dual-core platform and Nvidia ®8800 GTX GPU. In our work, we have developed a novel parallel algorithm specially suited for the Cell/B.E. architecture for all-to-all Jaccard comparisons, that minimizes DMA transfers and reuses data in the local store. We show that our implementation on Cell/B.E. outperforms the implementations on comparable Intel platforms by 6-20X with full accuracy, and from 10-50X in reduced accuracy mode, depending on the size of the data, and by more than 60X compared to Nvidia 8800 GTX. In addition to performance, we also discuss in detail our efforts to optimize our workload on these architectures and explain how avenues for optimization on each architecture are very different and vary from one architecture to another for our workload. Our work shows that the algorithms or kernels employed for the Jaccard coefficient calculation are heavily dependent on the traits of the target hardware.
Development and Evaluation of a High-Speed Continuous-Flow Analyzer

A high-speed, high-performance, continuous-flow analyzer is described that operates at two to three times the usual analysis rate without necessitating corrections of the raw data and with no decrease in accuracy or precision. At faster speeds (180-300 samples/h) inductive sample interaction (%Ii), opposite in direction to carry-over, is for the first time quantitatively measured. A correction equation for %Ii was developed, and when it is applied to raw data, the accuracy of the results are significantly improved. Operating characteristics of the high-speed analyzer are described and the desirability of automatic computer corrections is discussed for the high-speed system.
Further ozone‐measures and the possible connection of ozone with the sunspot‐cycle

This is a third report on atmospheric ozone. The measure used is the amount of solar radiation absorbed in the Chappuis ozone-band as observed at ground-level were the Sun in the zenith. This band extends in the spectrum roughly from 0.45 to 0.65μ. The stations furnishing the observations presented here are: Montezuma, Chile, in latitude 22.°7 south at elevation 2711 meters above sea-level (in the Andes); Harqua Hala, Arizona, in latitude 33.°8 north at elevation 1721 meters above sea-level; and Table Mountain, California, in latitude 34.°4 north at elevation 2286 meters above sea-level. It will be noted that Harqua Hala and Table Mountain are at nearly the same latitude.
Development of Weiner et al. force field parameters suitable for conformational studies of [1,4]-benzodiazepines and related compounds.

A set of force field parameters capable of reproducing the preferred conformations of the biologically important [1,4]-benzodiazepines was developed for AMBER and other molecular modeling programs that utilize the Weiner et al. force field. Equilibrium parameters were obtained from representative model compounds found in the Cambridge Structural Database, and bond stretching and torsion potential force constants were estimated using AM1 and PM3 semiempirical Hamiltonians. Parameters obtained with the two semiempirical methods and the existing linear interpolation method are compared. Molecular mechanics and dynamic simulations showed that AM1 derived parameters, together with MNDO ESP fitted atomic charges, predicted the X-ray structure of a number of representative [1,4]-benzodiazepines within 0.01 A, 0.8°, and 5°, from observed bond lengths, bond angles, and bond torsions, respectively.
Determination of phase stability in a bulk amorphous alloy by differential scanning calorimetry

Phase transformations in a bulk amorphous alloy have been studied by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). DSC scans exhibited increasingly complex structure as the temperature scan rate was reduced. A Kissinger analysis yielded transformation time constants and activation energies for several peaks and also for the glass transition. The fact that the Kissinger method fits the glass transition data was surprising but justifiable. Several higher temperature peaks departed from Kissinger behavior, particularly for very low scan rates. The DSC results indicate that the amorphous phase should be stable at temperatures near and above 200°C.
Stability and change in posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms following breast cancer treatment: a 1-year follow-up.

While some recent research has examined the prevalence and severity of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)-like symptoms following cancer treatment, no research has examined temporal change or stability in these symptoms in cancer survivors. Female breast cancer survivors (n=46) participated in an initial telephone interview and a follow-up interview 12 months later. PTSD symptoms associated with breast cancer were assessed using the PTSD Checklist—Civilian version (PCLC). In general, PTSD symptoms in this population did not diminish over time. While group analyses indicated that PCLC-total and subscale scores were stable across the two assessments, analyses of PCLC scores indicated that many patients exhibited fairly large (>0.5 S.D.) increases and/or decreases in PCLC-total or subscale scores. Some evidence suggested that decreases in PCLC scores between the two study assessments were associated with greater social support and experience of fewer traumatic stressors prior to breast cancer diagnosis. Most significantly, the research suggested that women with greater PTSD symptoms at the initial interview were less likely to participate in the follow-up interview. Implications of this for research and clinical management of PTSD in this population are discussed. Copyright © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thresholding lesion overlap difference maps: Application to category-related naming and recognition deficits

Abstract Lesion overlap difference maps have been used in studies designed to test anatomical hypotheses regarding brain systems critical for various cognitive and behavioral tasks, including naming and recognition of concrete entities [Damasio, H., Tranel, D., Grabowski, T., Adolphs, R., Damasio, A., 2004. Neural systems behind word and concept retrieval. Cognition 92, 179–229]. To date, the interpretation of these results has focused on areas of maximum lesion overlap differences. Here we explore formal methods for statistical thresholding and power analysis. We derive exact voxel-wise statistics describing the behavior of lesion overlap difference maps and lesion proportion difference maps under the null hypothesis of no association between lesion and deficit, and we apply the statistics to a large subset of the subjects previously reported in [Damasio, H., Tranel, D., Grabowski, T., Adolphs, R., Damasio, A., 2004. Neural systems behind word and concept retrieval. Cognition 92, 179–229], in order to reassess the lesion correlates of deficits in naming and recognition for five categories of concrete entities. The thresholded maps confirmed many of the results reported previously, but also revealed some differences. Differences in spatial distribution of the lesion correlates of impaired naming of unique versus nonunique entities were confirmed in the inferotemporal region (IT), although overlapping components across categories became apparent in left IT. Additionally, the left inferior frontal gyrus (IFG) was implicated in naming both categories of nonunique natural entities (animals and fruits/vegetables). In corresponding power analyses, we estimated where significant effects could be found under an assumption of maximal effect size given the observed spatial distribution of lesions. Such “effective coverage maps” are valuable for the interpretation of the results, notably because of heterogeneity in lesion coverage encountered in lesion studies. We strongly suggest that when inferential statistics are used in voxel-wise lesion-deficit statistical mapping, these or other power maps be included in the reports.
Trends in immunotherapy of fungal infections

Fungal infections are the primary cause of mortality in patients with severely impaired host defense mechanisms, such as neutropenic patients with acute leukemia or those who have undergone bone marrow transplantation. In view of the unacceptably high mortality due to disseminated candidiasis, it is rational to focus on augmentation of host defense mechanisms in addition to conventional antifungal therapy. In vitro, a variety of immunomodulators, including tumor necrosis factor, interferon-g, and the hematopoietic growth factors, enhance the killing of Candida albicans, Aspergillus fumigatus, and Cryptococcus neoformans. Various studies have demonstrated beneficial effects of immunomodulatory therapy in animal models of disseminated candidiasis. For further preclinical and clinical studies, recombinant interferon-g, interleukin-1, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, and the other hematopoietic growth factors are currently the most promising immunomodulators.
Evaluation of a computer program for neurological screening.

Abstract The design and evaluation of an automated screening system in general neurology, ASSIGN, is described. ASSIGN was constructed for use in the OPD of a large city hospital but is applicable to different clinical environments. The system uses historical data obtained in interview by a paraprofessional. Our study indicates that ASSIGN will identify about half of those patients who do not require further neurological evaluation, reduce the amount of time required to examine those patients who are referred for further neurological evaluation and expedite the acquisition of appropriate laboratory studies. The error rate for patients discharged by ASSIGN is not more than 10 per cent and the number of serious medical problems in this group is believed to be small enough to justify its use in a routine, non-parallel, operation.
Arterial and Mixed Venous Blood Gas Tensions in Exercising Ducks

Adult White Pekin ducks were exercised at three work levels on a treadmill at speeds of .9, 1.47, and 2.16 km/hr for 20 min with a 90 min rest period following each exercise period. Blood gas and pH analyses were performed on samples simultaneously withdrawn from the brachial artery and the right ventricle (as an estimate of mixed venous blood) at predetermined intervals during the experiment. Both arterial and mixed venous PCO2 significantly decreased with the increases in the level of exercise. Arterial pH did not change significantly from resting values at any level of exercise. Mixed venous pH decreased at the onset of exercise but returned to near resting value by the end of each exercise period. These measurements indicate that ducks increase their ventilation during exercise above that required to eliminate the generated CO2. Because the increased ventilation produces a reduction in arterial PCO2, it is unlikely that peripheral or central CO2-sensitive chemoreceptors are responsible for the ventilatory drive.
The CLEO III detector

Abstract The CLEO e+e− → Y(4S) experiment is being upgraded in early 1998 to study CP violation in and rare decays of B mesons. The CESR e+e− storage ring will be upgraded to deliver luminosities in excess of 2−5 × 1033cm−2s−1, or ∼108 B B pairs in 5 years. The CLEO detector will also be upgraded to exploit this large dataset and better isolate rare B meson decays.
A new implementation of the full CCSDT model for molecular electronic structure

Abstract A new implementation of the coupled cluster method including all single, double and triple excitations (designated CCSDT) has been developed and carefully tested. Applications to the molecular structures and harmonic vibrational frequencies of HF, OH−, N2 and CO are reported. CCSDT results are in close agreement with those obtained from the configuration interaction method including all single, double, triple and quadruple excitations (CISDTQ).
Long-baseline optical interferometry in earth orbit: system comparisons

This paper describes the orbital dynamics characteristics of three strategies for performing multi -kilometer optic al interferometry on astronomical sources in earth orbit, and compares the three •strategies from several points of view, which relate usable data to system costs. The three strategies that are thought to be the most likely to succeed are: 1, the "Hanging Tether" approach in which two collectors are suspended at the ends of a gravity gradient stabilized tether with the central station located on an elevator that moves up and down the tether to keep the optical path lengths equal; 2, the "Free Flyer" approach in which the two collectors and the central station are independent satellites in stationkeeping mode; and 3, the "Spinning Tether" approach in which three collectors are located at the corners of an equilateral tnangle connected by three tethers and rotating about their common center of mass. In each case it is assumed that data is recorded as the baselines continuously traverse the U-v plane in either elliptical or circular paths. It is determined on the basis of previous work in each case that continuous thrusting which is small enough to be provided by ion thrusters is the best method of compensating for gravity gradient disturbances. The fuel requirements for these thrusters is determined for the three cases and compared, based on the assumption of uniform fringe sampling density in the U-V plane. The main conclusion is that all of the systems are feasible in synchronous orbit, but questionable in low earth orbit. Experimental data on the interactions between optical systems, ion thrusters, and tether vibrations is needed before a final choice can be made.