cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Important role of FTO in the survival of rare panresistant triple-negative inflammatory breast cancer cells facing a severe metabolic challenge

We have previously shown that only 0.01% cells survive a metabolic challenge involving lack of glutamine in culture medium of SUM149 triple-negative Inflammatory Breast Cancer cell line. These cells, designated as SUM149-MA for metabolic adaptability, are resistant to chemotherapeutic drugs, and they efficiently metastasize to multiple organs in nude mice. We hypothesized that obesity-related molecular networks, which normally help in cellular and organismal survival under metabolic challenges, may help in the survival of MA cells. The fat mass and obesity-associated protein FTO is overexpressed in MA cells. Obesity-associated cis-acting elements in non-coding region of FTO regulate the expression of IRX3 gene, thus activating obesity networks. Here we found that IRX3 protein is significantly overexpressed in MA cells (5 to 6-fold) as compared to the parental SUM149 cell line, supporting our hypothesis. We also obtained evidence that additional key regulators of energy balance such as ARID5B, IRX5, and CUX1 P200 repressor could potentially help progenitor-like TNBC cells survive in glutamine-free medium. MO-I-500, a pharmacological inhibitor of FTO, significantly (>90%) inhibited survival and/or colony formation of SUM149-MA cells as compared to untreated cells or those treated with a control compound MO-I-100. Curiously, MO-I-500 treatment also led to decreased levels of FTO and IRX3 proteins in the SUM149 cells initially surviving in glutamine-free medium as compared to MO-I-100 treatment. Interestingly, MO-I-500 treatment had a relatively little effect on cell growth of either the SUM149 or SUM149-MA cell line when added to a complete medium containing glutamine that does not pose a metabolic challenge. Importantly, once selected and cultured in glutamine-free medium, SUM149-MA cells were no longer affected by MO-I-500 even in Gln-free medium. We conclude that panresistant MA cells contain interconnected molecular networks that govern developmental status and energy balance, and genetic and epigenetic alterations that are selected during cancer evolution.
Spinal interneurons and preganglionic neurons in sacral autonomic reflex pathways.

Publisher Summary This chapter reviews the autonomic circuitry in the spinal cord that constitutes the final common pathway for the transmission of activity from higher centers in the brain to the pelvic organs. It focuses on the morphological, neurochemical and electrophysiological properties of spinal interneurons and preganglionic neurons that are involved in the parasympathetic control of the pelvic viscera. The major emphasis is on the neurons involved in the regulation of the urinary bladder of the cat and the rat. In the cat, the sacral parasympathetic nucleus (SPN) has a viscerotopic organization; and preganglionic neurons (PGN) innervating different organs can be distinguished by their size, dendritic distribution and axonal conduction velocity. It is not known whether these differences occur in other species. The SPN receives inputs from various sources and in addition has local circuitry consisting of interneuronal-PGN synapses and PGN axon collateral-interneuronal synapses. Local interneurons mediate gamma aminobutyric acid ergic and glycinergic inhibitory as well as glutamatergic excitatory inputs to the PGN. It is possible that the interneurons are also involved as local relays for more distant inputs from primary afferent and supraspinal pathways to the PGN.
Familial Paroxysmal Ataxia: Acetazolamide Therapy

A dramatic response to acetazolamide in 3 patients with familial paroxysmal ataxia is reported from the Ipswich Hospital, Neurological Centre, Suffolk, England.
Prediction of crack initiation and propagation in X70 pipeline steels

Abstract The present work deals with the concept of post-initiation softening applied to ductile crack initiation and propagation problems in thick structural components such as pre-cracked pipes and fracture specimens. The methodology includes a set of calibration steps to determine model parameters of crack initiation and propagation under monotonic quasi static loading condition. The phenomenological Modified Mohr-Coulomb (MMC) fracture criterion is used for fracture initiation along with post-initiation softening for crack extension. A comprehensive experimental/numerical program provides access to the load histories of each specimen geometry at the critical point, where fracture is assumed to occur. This first step enables the construction of the limits of ductility of the material in terms of a weighted von Mises equivalent plastic strain, which strongly dependent on stress triaxiality and Lode angle evolution. Post-initiation softening parameters are then calibrated from tearing analysis built upon resistance curves of single edge notch tension (SENT) specimens. The calibrated parameters model along with detailed FE analyses shows that the present fracture criterion accurately predicts the onset of stable crack growth and propagation along the uncracked ligament of low constraint specimens.
Robotic agents used to help teach social skills to individuals with autism: The fourth generation

Robotic platforms have been developed and investigated as educationally useful interventions to improve social interactions among individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). In this paper, the development of a new generation of robotic agent is described, which uses economically available robotic platforms (Lego NXT) as Socially Assistive Robotics (SAR). In this generation, the robots were physically designed with maintainability, reliability, maneuverability, and aesthetics in mind; and the software architecture was designed for modularity, configurability, and reusability of the software.
Increased Risk of Skeletal Toxicity and Infection in Children 10 Years or Older Treated for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) with Dexamethasone: Results from the DFCI ALL Consortium.

BACKGROUND: Dexamethasone (dex) may be more efficacious but also more toxic than prednisone (pred) in the treatment of childhood ALL. In order to compare the relative toxicities of these 2 steroids, patients (pts) on DFCI ALL Consortium Protocol 00–01 were randomized to receive dex or pred during post-induction therapy. METHODS: Pts received 5-day steroid pulses every 3 weeks for 2 years (yrs) (pred 40mg/m2/day or dex 6 mg/m2/day) beginning at week 7 of therapy. High Risk (HR) pts received 3 times these doses during the Intensification Phase (approximately 6 months). RESULTS: Between 2000–2004, 425 pts (ages 1–18 yrs) were randomized; 423 had evaluable skeletal toxicity data, including 241 Standard Risk (SR) and 182 HR pts. 211 received dex and 212 received pred. Within 26 months of enrollment, 55 pts (13%) experienced at least 1 bony event: 45 pts (11%) with fracture and 17 (4%) with osteonecrosis (ON). Bony events were more common in children ≥10 yrs of age (11% of those CONCLUSION: Dexamethasone was associated with increased risk of skeletal toxicity and infection in pts ≥10 yrs of age. Longer follow-up is needed to fully assess EFS differences between the randomized treatment groups.
Embedded flash technology for automotive applications

Higher fuel-efficient engine and advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) require the further progress of embedded Flash (eFlash) technology for the automotive microcontroller units (MCUs). Continuous evolution of eFlash has satisfied the automotive requirements for the excellent reliability with the lower failure ratio of single ppm level and the high performance under harsh operating condition. Especially our unique spilt-gate MONOS (SG-MONOS) has been leading the world's first most cutting-edge eFlash for automotive MCUs since 90nm process node and has been already scaled down to 28nm one, because of its excellent reliability and process scalability. In addition our gate polished structure for the low-profile SG-MONOS enables to implement high performance and power efficient high-K metal gate (HKMG) CMOS transistors, while the conventional stacked floating gate Flash can be hardly applied. As the convergence candidate of eFlash for automotive Flash MCUs, SG-MONOS can contribute to the realization of the future world's leading green vehicles and autonomous-driving era.
Efficient Monte Carlo clustering in subspaces

Clustering of high-dimensional data is an important problem in many application areas, including image classification, genetic analysis, and collaborative filtering. However, it is common for clusters to form in different subsets of the dimensions. We present a randomized algorithm for subspace and projected clustering that is both simple and efficient. The complexity of the algorithm is linear in the number of data points and low-order polynomial in the number of dimensions. We present the results of a thorough evaluation of the algorithm using the OpenSubspace framework. Our algorithm outperforms competing subspace and projected clustering algorithms on both synthetic and real-world data sets.
Semantics as the basis of truly cognitive computing

At the 2014 AAAI, Pat Langley, one of the founders of machine learning and, recently, of its detractors, publicly lamented the current abandonment of the "big issues" in AI. Indeed, from emulating human intelligence in the process of learning more about it, AI is often confused with non-intelligent emulation of human intelligent activities. Both in the States and Europe, cognitive computing has emerged as attempts to equip the computer with some knowledge of the domain in which it operates. Cognitive robotics is one of the latest applications of this approach. What I am planning to discuss in the plenary is that our Ontological Semantic Technology offers a framework for capturing, structuring, and computerizing our entire knowledge of the world and anchoring natural language semantics in that knowledge.
Analysis and practical method of determining WBG FET switching losses associated with nonlinear coss

Coss nonlinear behavior of modern power FETs challenges large-signal model development used for DC-DC converter efficiency optimization. Small-signal data available in vendor's specifications could mislead and cause errors. Paper reviews existing modeling approaches and suggests accurate practical large signal Coss models for popular wide bandgap (WBG) FETs based on experimental test setup.
Boundary Conduction Mode Control of a Boost Converter With Active Switch Current-Mirroring Sensing

This letter presents a control scheme to operate a boost converter in boundary conduction mode (BCM). In the proposed method, it is assumed that the zero-current information is not available for controlling the converter operation mode. Therefore, a cursor is identified to detect the converter operation mode, i.e., continuous conduction mode/BCM. Details of the cursor and associated control method will be discussed in this letter. We demonstrate experimentally the effectiveness of the proposed method on a GaN boost converter whose active switch current is monitored through a current-mirroring technique.
Validation of DAS data integrity against standard geophones — DAS field test at Aquistore site

Abstract Distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) using fiber-optic cables is a recent addition to seismic acquisition methods. However, a DAS “sensor” differs significantly from conventional, discrete s...
A simulation analysis to weigh the impact of obesity: corresponding patient need with medical capacity

U.S. population data indicate upsurges in obesity that can outpace the medical community's ability to provide care. Identifying that "outpaced" tipping point can mitigate shortages in healthcare capacity. A simulation model was developed to determine the burden of patient need vis-a-vis the medical community's ability in two U.S. cities to establish the tipping point. The model captured medical capacity via Primary Care Physician and Emergency Room usage by two patient types: Patient A-endeavoring to maintain good health and Patient B-indifferent. Demographic statistics were drawn from CDC and census data. Outputs indicated significant queue lengths for both cities with queues reached differing tipping points per city, per patient degree of concern, and per patient-to-physician ratio. Additional alarming results showed Patient A becoming obese and Patient B sustaining obese weight. Assessing medical capacity is critical to averting foreseeable deficits in healthcare as the population continues to succumb to the obesity epidemic.
Identifying children repeatedly victimized by peers: A preliminary study

ABSTRACTRepeated victims of school bullying are at risk for maladjustment and could potentially benefit from selective intervention. However, selective intervention requires a practical method for ...
Radiographic Imaging Does Not Reliably Predict Macroscopic Extranodal Extension in Human Papilloma Virus-Associated Oropharyngeal Cancer.

Background Radiographic concern for lymphatic extranodal extension (ENE) impacts upfront management decisions for patients with human papilloma virus (HPV) oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC). Therefore, we set out to evaluate the accuracy of preoperative contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) to predict major ENE (> 2 mm). Methods Twenty-seven consecutive patients with HPV-associated OPSCC who presented at our institutional multidisciplinary tumor board were staged radiographically with positron emission tomography (PET/CT) and CECT, and underwent primary transoral robotic resection and neck dissection. CECT imaging results were correlated with pathologic ENE (pENE). Results CECT specificity for all pENE was 69 and 75% for radiologist 1 and 2, respectively. For pENE > 2 mm, the sensitivities were 88 and 100%, but specificities were 52.6 and 63.2%. Positive predictive values (PPV) were 43.8 and 53.3%; negative predictive values were 90.9 and 100%. On logistic regression analysis, only size ≥3 cm (OR 4.7-5.4, p 2 mm. Conclusions Preoperative imaging for HPV-associated OPSCC had a PPV for pENE > 2 mm of 44-55%, based on any interruption in the capsule or invasion into the perinodal fat. The PPV is low and equipoise in treatment decision making for patients with HPV-associated OPSCC may require other imaging characteristics.
Target Costing und Product Life Cycle Costing als Instrumente des Kostenmanagements

Nach empirischen Ergebnissen werden 80–90% der Herstellkosten eines Produkts bereits in den Phasen vor dem Produktionsbeginn festgelegt. Damit werden im Unternehmen Instrumente benotigt, die moglichst folgende Anforderungen erfullen: Konsequente Markt- und Kundenorientierung, Beeinflussung der Kosten bereits in den Phasen der Entwicklung und Konstruktion eines Neuproduktes und ganzheitliche Betrachtung eines Produkttypes wahrend des gesamten Lebenszyklusses. Im betrieblichen Kostenmanagement sollte das Konzept des Target Costing (Analyse der Zielkosten) durch das Product Life Cycle Costing (Analyse der Produktlebenszykluskosten) erganzt werden, um die notwendige dynamische Betrachtungsweise im Kostenmanagement zu gewahrleisten.
DITPA prevents the blunted contraction-frequency relationship in myocytes from infarcted hearts

Loss of the positive force-frequency relationship is a characteristic finding in failing hearts. The mechanisms of this change are not well understood. Myocardial infarction (MI) was induced in rab...
Purine Nucleoside Phosphorylase of Bovine Liver Mitochondria

Purine nucleoside phosphorylase (PNPase, purine nucleoside: orthophosphate ribosyltransferase E.C. 2.4.2.1) in mammals reversibly catalyzes the phosphorolysis of the purine ribonucleosides (deoxy)inosine and (deoxy)guanosine to (deoxy)ribose-l-phosphate and the respective base. This enzyme has been isolated and purified from various cytosolic sources (1–4). This report describes the partial characterization of a newly discovered PNPase activity isolated from the mitochondria of bovine liver.
CONCEAL: A Strategy Composition for Resilient Cyber Deception-Framework, Metrics and Deployment

Cyber deception is a key proactive cyber resilience technique to reverse the current asymmetry that favors adversaries in cyber warfare by creating a significant confusion in discovering and targeting cyber assets. One of the key objectives for cyber deception is to hide the true identity of the cyber assets in order to effectively deflect adversaries away from critical targets, and detect their activities early in the killchain.Although many cyber deception techniques were proposed including using honeypots to represent fake targets, and mutating IP addresses to frequently change the ground truth of the network configuration [12], none of these deception techniques is resilient enough to provide high confidence of concealing the identity of the network assets, particularly against sophisticated attackers. In fact, in this paper our analytical and experimental work showed that highly resilient cyber deception is unlikely attainable using a single technique, but it requires an optimal composition of various concealment techniques to maximize the deception utility. We, therefore, present a new cyber deception framework, called CONCEAL, which is a composition of mutation, anonymity, and diversity to maximize key deception objectives, namely, concealability, detectability and deterrence, while constraining the overall deployment cost. We formally define the CONCEAL metrics for concealability, detectability, and deterrence to measure the effectiveness of CONCEAL. Finally, we present the deployment of CONCEAL as a service to achieve manageability and costeffectiveness by automatically generating the optimal deception proxy configuration based on existing host/network configuration, risk constraints of network services, and budget constraints. Our evaluation experiments measure both the deception effectiveness based on the above metrics, as well as the scalability of the CONCEAL framework.
Initial Investigation of the Small Feature Detection Capability of the ORNL Fast Neutron Tomographic Imaging System

A variety of fast neutron imaging simulations and measurements were performed to investigate the spatial resolution and small feature detection capability of a fast-neutron tomographic imaging system developed at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. The system uses an associated particle DT (deuterium-tritium) neutron generator as the source and 25 mm × 25 mm × 100 mm plastic scintillators as the neutron detectors. Two image quality indicators were examined: 1) a variety of long steel pins embedded axially in the interior of a polyethylene cylinder and 2) a variety of short steels pins embedded radially in the surface of a shielded polyethylene cylinder. Measurements demonstrated detectability down to approximately 3 mm. Further data analysis may show improved detection performance and allow a more precise determination of the spatial resolution and small feature detection limit. The current DT generator has a neutron production spot size of about 3.5 mm, which appears to be the limiting factor in the current system configuration.
Restoring Edentulous Mandible with an Implant-Retained Overdenture in a Day by Means of Flapless Surgery and Stereolithographic Surgical Guide: a Case Report.

Digital revolution is here and becoming more and more influential in our daily lives by transforming several things such as our habits, interactions with other people and the practice of dentistry. In implant dentistry, the newer methods by using cone-beam computed tomography and computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing recently offer more predictable and aesthetics outcomes in a shorter period of treatment time when compared to the traditional prosthetic procedures.
Unpacking the “I” in GIS: Information, Ontology, and the Geographic World

As a tool dealing with information rather than matter, GIS shares with other information technologies the conceptual challenges of its medium. For a number of years now, ontology development has helped harness the complexity of the notion of information and has emerged as an effective means for improving the fitness for use of information products. More recently, the broadening range of users and user needs has led to increasing calls for “lightweight” ontologies very different in structure, expressivity, and scope from the traditional foundational or domain-oriented ones. This paper outlines a conceptual model suitable for generating micro-ontologies of geographic information tailored to specific user needs and purposes, while avoiding the traps of relativism that ad hoc efforts might engender. The model focuses on the notion of information decomposed into three interrelated “views”: that of measurements and formal operations on these, that of semantics that provide the meaning, and that of the context within which the information is interpreted and used. Together, these three aspects enable the construction of micro-ontologies, which correspond to user-motivated selections of measurements to fit particular, task-specific interpretations. The model supersedes the conceptual framework previously proposed by the author (Couclelis, Int J Geogr Inf Sci 24(12):1785–1809, 2010), which now becomes the semantic view. In its new role, the former framework allows informational threads to be traced through a nested sequence of layers of decreasing semantic richness, guided by user purpose. “Purpose” is here seen as both the interface between micro-ontologies and the social world that motivates user needs and perspectives, and as the primary principle in the selection and interpretation of Information most appropriate for the representational task at hand. Thus, the “I” in GIS also stands for the Individual whose need the tool serves.
Unified Testing and Security Framework for Wireless Network-on-Chip Enabled Multi-Core Chips

On-chip wireless interconnects have been demonstrated to improve the performance and energy consumption of data communication in Network-on-Chips (NoCs). However, the wireless interfaces (WIs) can be defective, rendering these broken links severely affect the performance. This makes manufacturing test of the WIs critical. While analog testing of the transceivers is possible, such methodologies are impractical in a Wireless NoC (WiNoC) due to large overheads. In addition to testing, security is another prominent challenge in WiNoCs, as the security breach can happen due to embedded hardware Trojans or through external attacker exploiting the wireless medium. The typical security measures used in general wireless networks are not practical in a WiNoC due to unique network architectures and performance requirements of such a system. However, both testing and security defense can potentially leverage a basic monitoring framework which, can detect malfunctions or anomalies. Based on this idea, we propose a unified architecture for testing and attack detection and protection of on-chip wireless interconnects. We adopt a Built-In-Self Test (BIST) methodology to enable online monitoring of the wireless interconnects which can also be reused for monitoring the security threats. We focus on manufacturing defects of the WIs for testing and persistent jamming attack for the security measures, as this kind of attack is most likely on wireless communication systems. The BIST methodology is capable of detecting faults in the wireless links with a low aliasing probability of 2.32× 10−10. Additionally, the proposed unified architecture is able to detect the persistent jamming with an accuracy of 99.87% and suffer
Signature of van der Waals interactions in the cumulant density matrix

Here we propose and implement a universal signature of the van der Waals interactions based on the cumulant part of the two-electron reduced density matrix (2-RDM). Due to the connected property of the cumulant, we can use it to detect the van der Waals interactions between two molecular moieties. In particular, we use the squared Frobenius norm of the cumulant of the 2-RDM, which has been previously shown to provide a size-extensive measure of the electron correlation. As two moieties are separated to infinity, the cumulant Frobenius norm exhibits an r−6 decay to its asymptotic limit, providing a density-based measure of the van der Waals interaction. We study this signature of van der Waals forces in a collection of small molecules of varying geometries. These computations agree with experimental trends of known literature values.
Tras la conjuración de brujería en Cartagena de Indias (1634-1636): retractaciones, espacios carcelarios y tortura

Between 1634 and 1636, the inquisitors found out a «conspiracy of witchcraft» in the Tribunal of the Holy Office in Cartagena de Indias. According to them, the con­spiracy consisted of the retractions of several female prisoners related to their previous confessions of having been involved witchcraft, while they were in the penance prison. The retractions threatened the Inquisition’s legitimacy insofar as they undermined the 1633 witchcraft trials. As a consequence, the inquisitors carried an exhaustive investigation to control and reveal the origin of the retractions and the development of the conspiracy. This article draws on the records of Rufina and Justa —two free mulatto sisters— who participated in the conspiracy. It explores the extent to which the architectural layout of the Inquisition’s prisons influenced the creation and rupture of the alliances that briefly allowed prisoners like Rufina and Justa to contest the legitimacy of their own witchcraft trials. In addition, it analyzes the physical challenges these women faced as prisoners, and analyze the inquisitors’ use of torture as a means to solve the conspiracy.
A creative classroom for everyone: An introduction to a small ‘c’ creativity framework

Abstract This study presents two case studies of teachers who participated in a large-scale, NSF-funded professional development project. It investigates how teachers’ curricular choices affect the amount of student creativity produced in their classrooms. The study demonstrates how creativity is fostered in students through various styles of teacher beliefs and practices. Analysis includes determining Consensual Assessment Technique (CAT) scores for student products and continua scores along a Small ‘c’ Creativity Framework. The data shows a relationship between teachers’ CAT scores, framework scores, and school context. The framework was determined to be a successful tool for understanding the degree to which teachers foster small ‘c’ creativity. Other themes emerged that could be examined in future studies, including: 1) teachers’ allotment of time and small group collaboration; 2) teachers’ beliefs about creativity; and 3) school context.
The American Civil Corporation, the

This article examines the question of whether Catholic colleges and universities which have separated from their founding religious institutions by incorporating under boards of trustees are still Catholic and bound by the canon law. It answers this question in the affirmative. Although laypersons play a significant role in these incorporated colleges and universities, the institutions remain Catholic. The article focuses on the incorporation movement, born after the second Vatican Council, as an effort to further academic progress previously lacking in these institutions and modeled after the American civil corporation. The author suggests that contemporary analysis of that movement is inaccurate, and instead the incorporated institutions are bound by the canon law of the Catholic Church in the administration of their properties. The author also discusses Ex Corde Ecclesiae, the Papal constitution on higher education, and finds that it is applicable to American Catholic institutions.
Once Upon a Time A *Sleeping Beauty… Indo-European Parallels to Sole, Luna e Talia (Giambattista Basile Pentamerone 5.5)

Nell’articolo si confrontano alcune caratteristiche attestate nelle versioni piu antiche della Bella Addormentata con quelle documentate in testi poetici di due lingue indo-europee antiche. Nello specifico, si mostrera come, in molte versioni della storia, una principessa dormiente e i suoi figli portano nomi che appartengono al campo semantico della ‘luce’ (Sole e Luna, Aurora e Giorno etc.). Inoltre, la protagonista della storia e ‘colei che si sveglia’ per antonomasia. Questi tratti tipici trovano corrispondenze perfette con due divinita indoeuropee dell'aurora, cioe la greca Euruphaessa/Eos e la dea vedica Uṣas. Infine, sia Uṣas sia Euruphaessa commettono incesto, mentre, in una versione medioevale della Bella Addormentata, una principessa di nome ‘Sor de Plaser’ (Sorella di Piacere) ha un rapporto sessuale non consensuale con ‘Frayre de Joy’ (Fratello di Gioia). Tali nomi potrebbero costituire un indizio per un motivo di incesto nascosto, che e stato progressivamente rimosso dalla trama del racconto in un modo simile al quale lo stupro della principessa dormiente e stato omesso dalle versioni piu recenti della Bella Addormentata (Perrault, Grimm, Pitre).
Transboundary water sharing policies conditioned on hydrologic variability to inform reservoir operations

Abstract. Water resources infrastructure is critical for energy and food security, however, the development of large-scale infrastructure, such as hydropower dams, may significantly alter downstream flows, potentially leading to water resources management conflicts and disputes, especially in transboundary river basins. Mutually agreed upon water sharing policies for the operation of existing or new reservoirs is one of the most effective strategies to mitigate conflict, yet this is a complex task involving the estimation of available water, identification of users and demands, procedures for water sharing, etc. We propose a water-sharing policy framework that incorporates reservoir operating rules optimization based on conflicting uses and natural hydrologic variability, specifically tailored to drought conditions. We first establish the trade-off between downstream and upstream water availability utilizing multi-objective optimization of reservoir operating rules. Next, we simulate reservoir operation with the candidate (optimal) rules, evaluate their performance, and select the most suitable rules for balancing water uses. Subsequently, we build a relationship between the reservoir operations simulated from the selected rules and drought-specific conditions to derive water-sharing policies. Finally, we re-optimize the reservoir operating rules to evaluate the effectiveness of the drought-specific water sharing policies. We apply the framework to reservoir operation of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) on the Blue Nile River. We find that the derived water sharing policy can balance GERD power generation and downstream releases, especially in dry conditions, effectively sharing the hydrologic risk in inflow variability among riparian countries. The proposed framework offers a robust approach to inform water sharing policies for sustainable management of transboundary water resources.
The effect of boundary roughness on dense granular flows

In the field of granular rheology, an important open question is to understand the influence of boundary conditions on granular flows. We perform experiments in a quasi-2D annular shear cell subject to 6 different boundaries with controlled roughness/compliance. We characterize the granular slip at the boundaries to investigate which aspects of a dense granular flow can be controlled by the choice of boundary condition. Photoelastic techniques are implemented to measure the stress fields P (r) and τ (r) throughout the material. A full inverse-analysis of the fringes within each disk provides the vector force at each contact. This allows us to measure the continuum stress field by coarse-graining internal forces. We have observed that boundary roughness and compliance strongly controls the flow profile v (r) and shear rate profile γ ˙(r ). We also observed that boundary roughness and compliance play a significant role in the pressure profile P (r) and shear stress profile τ (r).
Developing Dense Plasma Focus Capabilities at the University Of Michigan

The Z-machine housed at Sandia National Laboratories is instrumental in plasma physics research across a range of applications including nuclear stockpile stewardship, materials testing, and inertial confinement fusion. University-scale z-pinch experiments can inform the high-value experiments conducted at Sandia. A Dense Plasma Focus (DPF) is one such type of z-pinch. Specifically, it involves a rapid plasma acceleration and compression resulting in a significant number of fusion reactions [1]. These fusion reactions are largely the result of micro-pinch instabilities, which are regions of extremely high pressure and temperature within the plasma. There are still many unanswered questions about these micro-pinch phenomena. Developing a better understanding of these phenomena could lead to profound implications for the field of high-energy-density physics.
On the Concept of Mean Hydraulic Radius

By using the hydrodynamic analogy between the torsion of a uniform bar with arbitrary cross-section and viscous flow through a channel of the same shape, the flow rate through any channel may be predicted (1) Computation of the aspect ratio of the cross-section of the channel; (2) measurement of the area using a planimeter; (3) Measurement of the wetted perimeter of flow; and (4) Observation of the number of significant sides comprising the cross-section. The mean hydraulic radius may be obtained as the quotient of (2) and (3). This parameter is then modified by (1) and (4) to improve the accuracy of the prediction. For channels with variable shape and size along their length, the same concepts may be used. In such cases, an equivalent area is defined in the computation of hydraulic radius according to a method outlined in the appendix. Experimental support for the concepts proposed has been furnished from extensive tests by the author using plates with regular and random asperities. The validity of the mean hydraulic radius concept has led to the development of a scientific outflow instrument which is capable of predicting the drainage ability of road surfaces subjected to pneumatic tire traffic.
Communities as “Big Small Groups”: Culture and Social Capital

Since the early days of the American republic, social and political observers have analyzed the role of local associations in promoting civic participation, strengthening democracy, and developing countervailing structures to those of the state. Their commentaries emphasized the importance of group solidarity, voluntarism, and reciprocity in the preservation of republican virtues. During the late nineteenth and much of the twentieth centuries, these perspectives played a prominent role in defining the patterns and parameters of social policies designed to assimilate an increasingly diverse U.S. population. Conversely, they also enabled minorities to resist the forces of institutional oppression in their communities.
The many routes to regulating mRNA translation

A report on the meeting 'Translational Control' at Cold Spring Harbor, New York, 6-10 September 2006.
The role of CEO inside debt holdings in corporate pension funding status

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to examine how pension risk shifting can be explained and constrained by debt component in chief executive officer (CEO) compensation and to explore whether a CEO’s relatively large holdings of inside debt to equity compensation would result in a well-funded pension status. Design/methodology/approach – The authors use two-stage least-squares model to control the potential unobserved and uncontrolled firm characteristics that could drive both CEO inside debt determinants and firm pension funding status. Findings – This paper finds a positive relationship between the CEO inside debt ratio and firm funding status. Additional tests show a positive association between the CEO inside debt ratio and financial slack measures and a negative association between this ratio and financial constraint measure. Additional evidence also shows that the CEO inside debt ratio is negatively associated with other contemporaneous investment activities. Overall, the findings suggest that C...
Three‐decade‐delayed post‐traumatic small‐bowel stenosis

Injury to the small bowel is uncommon after trauma. There are rare reported cases of delayed post-traumatic stenosis of the small bowel occurring weeks, months or even years later. In this study, we present a case of a delayed stenosis that caused a small-bowel obstruction three decades after the trauma.
Spain violated: foreign men in Spain's heartland

The process of colonial expansion in the sixteenth century fundamentally changed Spanish culture. Along with race, religion, ethnicity, status and honour, definitions of proper gendered and sexual behaviour changed as well. This article argues that Spanish communities and institutions came to define foreign men as examples of a subordinate and dangerous masculinity. The threat that foreign male sexuality posed to Spanish women and thus Spanish patriarchy – not only in the colonies, but within Spain itself – led institutions to prosecute foreign men. This essay draws on the language used in Inquisition and ecclesiastical court cases against foreign men as well as in Spanish literature of the period.
Do sheepskin effects help explain racial earnings differences

Abstract This study examines the role of sheepskin effects in explaining white–black earnings differences. The study finds significant differences in sheepskin effects between white men and black men, with white men receiving higher rewards for lower level signals (degrees of a college education or less) and black men receiving higher rewards for higher level signals (graduate degrees). In performing an Oaxaca decomposition of earnings differences, it is apparent that signaling plays an important role in explaining white–black earnings differences and that a portion of the gap may be explained by statistical discrimination.
The contribution of the pet turtle industry to the Louisiana economy

Abstract Aquaculture makes a substantial contribution to economic activity in Louisiana. The Louisiana pet turtle industry is a less well‐known aquaculture industry, which contributes substantially to economic activity, especially at the local level. A modified version of an input‐output model, constructed with IMPLAN, is used to evaluate the industry's impact on the state economy. The industry is estimated to generate $9.703 million in total output, $4.696 million in Gross State Product, $3.625 million in labour income and 882 jobs in the Louisiana economy. This impact would be expected to be pronounced in smaller towns. A recently developed use of the industrial chemical Vantocil could lead to the lifting of the ban by the FDA on the domestic sale of baby pet turtles. Such a development should result in significant growth in the pet turtle industry, which would in turn enhance its contribution to the economy of Louisiana communities.
Origins of thermal conductivity changes in strained crystals

The strain-dependent phonon properties and thermal conductivities of a soft system [Lennard-Jones (LJ) argon] and a stiff system (silicon modeled using first-principles calculations) are predicted using lattice dynamics calculations and the Boltzmann transport equation. As is commonly assumed for materials under isotropic strain, the thermal conductivity of LJ argon decreases monotonically as the system moves from compression into tension. The reduction in thermal conductivity is attributed to decreases in both the phonon lifetimes and group velocities. The thermal conductivity of silicon, however, is constant in compression and only begins to decrease once the system is put in tension. The silicon lifetimes show an anomalous behavior, whereby they increase as the system moves from compression into tension, which is explained by examining the potential energy surface felt by an atom. The results emphasize the need to separately consider the harmonic and anharmonic effects of strain on material stiffness, phonon properties, and thermal conductivity.
A phase I study of irinotecan administered on a weekly schedule in pediatric patients.

Background The objectives of this study were to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD), dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs), pharmacokinetics, and anti-tumor effect of irinotecan in pediatric patients with recurrent or refractory malignancies. Procedure Twenty-three patients between 1 and 21 years of age, with a solid tumor refractory to standard therapy or for which there was no standard therapy were enrolled. Irinotecan was administered over 90 min weekly 4×, every 6 weeks. The initial dose level was 125 mg/m2/day, with subsequent escalations to 160 and 200 mg/m2/day. A MTD was defined in heavily-pretreated and less-heavily-pretreated (≤2 prior chemotherapy regimens, no prior bone marrow transplantation, and no central axis radiation) patients. Pharmacokinetic studies were also performed. Results Neutropenia and diarrhea were the DLTs in heavily pretreated patients; the MTD was 125 mg/m2/day. Neutropenia was the DLT in less-heavily pretreated; the MTD was 160 mg/m2/day. Five patients had stable disease for two to four cycles including one patient each with rhabdomyosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma, neuroblastoma, and two patients with ependymoma. Irinotecan clearance was greater that that previously reported for children receiving high dose irinotecan. Conclusions The recommended phase II dose of irinotecan administered weekly 4×, every 6 weeks in children with solid tumors is 125 mg/m2/dose for heavily pretreated patients and 160 mg/m2/dose for less heavily pretreated patients. © 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Soft tissue reconstruction of theupper extremity

Abstract Soft tissue coverage of the upper extremity requires careful analysis of each defect by the surgeon to establish an appropriate plan for reconstruction. Each anatomic area of the upper extremity has unique reconstructive requirements. Also, patient characteristics including age, compliance, and medical history play a role in the management of upper extremity wounds. The surgeon must incorporate all of these elements to select a suitable reconstructive option that will maximize function and aesthetics as well as minimize morbidity.
Disruption of sonic hedgehog signaling in Ellis-van Creveld dwarfism confers protection against bipolar affective disorder

Disruption of sonic hedgehog signaling in Ellis-van Creveld dwarfism confers protection against bipolar affective disorder
The Characteristics of Successful Family Physicians in Rural Nebraska: A Qualitative Study of Physician Interviews.

ABSTRACT: Context: In studying physician shortage issues, few studies have utilized individual interviews, allowing rural physicians to voice their own stories. Purpose: To explore rural physicians’ unique characteristics affecting their decisions and satisfactions with practice in a rural area. Methods: A qualitative interview study with 11 Nebraska family physicians practicing in rural (frontier) areas. Findings: Previous experience and preference for a rural lifestyle, desire for autonomy, a wide scope of practice, and close relationships with patients defined those physicians choosing rural practice.
Spectroscopic properties and potential energy curves of I2 and I2

Abstract Complete active space MCSCF followed by first-order configuration interaction, second-order configuration interaction, and relativistic configuration interaction calculations are carried out on 30 electronic states of I2 and 13 electronic states of I2+, among which the spectroscopic properties of the bound states are calculated. The potential curves of the calculated low-lying states are reported. These calculations confirm earlier assignments of the X, A, A′, B, B′, B″, a, a′, C, D′, E, G, G′, and H states of I2, and the X, A, and B states of I2+. In addition, spectroscopic properties of many states of I2+ and a few states of I2 are predicted which are yet to be observed. The spin-orbit effects are found to be significant for many states of I2 and I2+. The nature of electronic states as a function of internuclear distance is also provided. The experimentally predicted maximum in the potential curve of the B state of I2+ is explained by our theoretical calculations.
Colonisation or incarceration? The changing role of the French penal colony in fin‐de‐siecle New Caledonia

Abstract There was a growing belief among 19th century French social theorists that the urban‐industrial milieu, with its poverty and social dislocation, was a breeding ground for criminal activity. Such opinions led legislators to remove the malfeasor, convicted of either felonies or repeated misdemeanours, from this urban environment, and relocate him to the distant land of New Caledonia where he would be restored to a moral life by serving in France's colonial project. Through his hard labour he would pay his debt to the mother country while simultaneously increasing the domain of her rule. Thus, penal colonisation was seen as not simply the banishment of dangerous and undesirable individuals, but a process of re‐socialisation that would eventually allow for their re‐insertion in civil society. This article examines how the penal‐colonial mission was transmuted by colonial officials and penal administrators. Analysis of the internal memoranda and correspondence between these two groups uncovers a funda...
U.S. methods for costing in higher education: taking the technology abroad

Costing, the process by which an organization's costs are determined, is one of the most useful policy-making and management tools available to higher education leaders throughout the world. Yet despite the ongoing demand for analytically derived cost information in higher education, the use of costing for policy and management purposes is only now gaining momentum. This article reports the results of the first known application of U.S. costing methods to an institution of higher learning in Latin America - the Universidad de Monterrey (UDEM), a prestigious independent university in Mexico. This study elucidates differences in direct and indirect instructional costs among the UDEM's seven academic colleges and discerns reasons for variations in these costs. Based on the correlation and regression analyses performed, the student-faculty ratio, the average class size, and the total number of courses (a measure of curricular breadth) were among the major factors creating differences in instructional costs among the seven colleges. An important implication of this study is that potential economies are available if faculty productivity levels are increased. Thus, UDEM could conceivably double the existing average class sizes and student-faculty ratios in several of its colleges without any deterioration in the quality of instruction.