cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Transient laws of non-stationary queueing systems and their applications

In this paper we consider the general class of non-stationary queueing models and identify structural relationships between the number of customers in the system and the delay at time t, denoted by L(t) and S(t), respectively. In particular, we first establish a transient Little’s law at the same level of generality as the classical stationary version of Little’s law. We then obtain transient distributional laws for overtake free non-stationary systems. These laws relate the distributions of L(t) and S(t) and constitute a complete set of equations that describes the dynamics of overtake free non-stationary queueing systems. We further extend these laws to multiclass systems as well. Finally, to demonstrate the power of the transient laws we apply them to a variety queueing systems: Infinite and single server systems with non-stationary Poisson arrivals and general non-stationary services, multiclass single server systems with general non-stationary arrivals and services, and multiserver systems with renewal arrivals and deterministic services, operating in the transient domain. For all specific systems we relate the performance measures using the established set of laws and obtain a complete description of the system in the sense that we have a sufficient number of integral equations and unknowns. We then solve the set of integral equations using asymptotic expansions and exact numerical techniques. We also report computational results from our methods.
The relations of the anorthosite and gabbro in the Lake Sanford area, New York

In a detailed study of the area of the Lake Sanford titaniferous magnetite deposits some interesting relations between anorthosite and gabbro came to light. Gabbro can be found grading into the anorthosite, showing the consanguinity of the two rocks, but in a few places the gabbro is intrusive into the already consolidated portions of the anorthosite.
Combinational verification based on high-level functional specifications

We present a new combinational verification technique where the functional specification of a circuit under verification is utilized to simplify the verification task. The main idea is to assign to each primary input a general function, called a coordinate function, instead of a single variable function as in most BDD-based techniques. BDDs of intermediate nodes are then constructed based on these coordinate functions in a topological order from primary inputs to primary outputs. Coordinate functions depend on primary input variables and extra variables. Therefore combinational verification is performed not over the set of primary input variables but over the extended set of variables. Coordinate functions are chosen in such a way that in the process of computing intermediate functions the dependency on the primary input variables is gradually replaced with that on the extra variables, thereby making boolean functions associated with primary outputs simple functions only in terms of the extra variables. We show that such a smart choice of coordinate functions is possible with the help of the high-level functional specification of the circuit.
Soil modification by invasive plants: effects on native and invasive species of mixed-grass prairies

Invasive plants are capable of modifying attributes of soil to facilitate further invasion by conspecifics and other invasive species. We assessed this capability in three important plant invaders of grasslands in the Great Plains region of North America: leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula), smooth brome (Bromus inermis) and crested wheatgrass (Agropyron cristatum). In a glasshouse, these three invasives or a group of native species were grown separately through three cycles of growth and soil conditioning in both steam-pasteurized and non-pasteurized soils, after which we assessed seedling growth in these soils. Two of the three invasive species, Bromus and Agropyron, exhibited significant self-facilitation via soil modification. Bromus and Agropyron also had significant facilitative effects on other invasives via soil modification, while Euphorbia had significant antagonistic effects on the other invasives. Both Agropyron and Euphorbia consistently suppressed growth of two of three native forbs, while three native grasses were generally less affected. Almost all intra- and interspecific effects of invasive soil conditioning were dependent upon presence of soil biota from field sites where these species were successful invaders. Overall, these results suggest that that invasive modification of soil microbiota can facilitate plant invasion directly or via ‘cross-facilitation’ of other invasive species, and moreover has potential to impede restoration of native communities after removal of an invasive species. However, certain native species that are relatively insensitive to altered soil biota (as we observed in the case of the forb Linum lewisii and the native grasses), may be valuable as ‘nurse’species in restoration efforts.
Prevalence of cytomegalovirus antibody in hemophiliacs and homosexuals infected with human immunodeficiency virus type 1.

We determined the prevalence of antibody to cytomegalovirus (CMV) in the sera of non-homosexual hemophilia patients and homosexual men infected with the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1). CMV antibody testing by latex agglutination revealed 33 of 58 HIV-1 infected hemophiliacs (57%) were antibody-positive compared with 54 of 54 HIV-1 infected asymptomatic non-hemophiliac homosexuals (100%) (p less than .001). Nine of 15 hemophiliacs (60%) with symptomatic HIV-1 infection were CMV antibody-positive. We also tested 22 HIV-1 antibody- negative hemophiliacs who had received non-heat treated factor concentrates. 14 of these 22 (64%) were CMV antibody-positive compared with 57% of HIV-1 antibody-positive hemophiliacs. We conclude 1) there is little correlation between transmission of HIV-1 and CMV by factor concentrates, 2) the presence of CMV antibody does not appear to be associated with clinical stage of HIV-1 infection in hemophiliacs, and 3) there may be a significant number of CMV antibody-negative hemophiliacs with HIV-1 infection at risk for primary infection and subsequent disease if CMV seronegative blood products are not provided for future transfusions.
Review and analysis of variable valve timing strategies—eight ways to approach

AbstractIn internal combustion engines, particularly for spark ignition (SI) engines, valve events and their timings have a major influence on the engine's overall efficiency and its exhaust emissions. Because the conventional SI engine has fixed timing and synchronization between the camshaft and crankshaft, a compromise results between engine efficiency, performance, and its maximum power. By using variable valve timing (VVT) technology it is possible to control the valve lift, phase, and valve timing at any point on the engine map, with the result of enhancing the overall engine performance. To get full benefits from VVT, various types of mechanisms have been proposed and designed. Some of these mechanisms are in production and have shown significant benefits in improving engine performance. During the last two decades, remarkable developments have been seen in the field of VVT. This paper reviews the literature in the technology of intake and exhaust philosophies of VVT and their effects on the pressu...
Hedge Fund Activism, Corporate Governance, and Firm Performance

Using a large hand-collected dataset from 2001 to 2006, we find that activist hedge funds in the U.S. propose strategic, operational, and financial remedies and attain success or partial success in two thirds of the cases. Hedge funds seldom seek control and in most cases are nonconfrontational. The abnormal return around the announcement of activism is approximately 7%, with no reversal during the subsequent year. Target firms experience increases in payout, operating performance, and higher CEO turnover after activism. Our analysis provides important new evidence on the mechanisms and effects of informed shareholder monitoring.
Fluorinations with sulfur tetrafluoride and HF. 2. Preparation of trifluoromethylated thiazoles and isothiazoles

Abstract Several new trifluoromethylated thiazoles and isothiazoles have been prepared using SF4on precursor carboxylic acids. This chemistry demonstrates the usefulness and applicabilityof the sulfur tetrafluoride fluorination to the preparation of novel thiazoles and isothiazoles.
The Embryo Lethality of Escherichia coli Isolates and Its Relationship to Various In Vitro Attributes

Abstract Based on the hypothesis that bacteria with minimal embryo lethality might be good candidates for vertical transmission, 103 lactose-positive Escherichia coli isolates were collected from different broiler-related conditions (sources) and analyzed using a variety of in vitro assays: biochemical profiles, sensitivity to antimicrobials, and the presence of plasmids in the 2000- to 16,000-base pair range. The results of these assays were analyzed to determine if they were associated with, or could be used as predictors of, the degree of lethality these isolates produced in 12-day-old embryos. In addition, the in vitro assay results were analyzed to determine if there was any correlation between any particular pair of factors. On the basis of biochemical profiles, the isolates were classified into 17 different groups; however, only a limited number of biochemical reactions separated a majority of the isolates. The isolates varied considerably in the number and size of plasmids they contained and in th...
"The Story" of a Death: Therapeutic Considerations with Bereaved Families

Facilitating and listening to bereaved families tell “The Story” of their loss is an important component of therapeutic work with bereaved families. Following a discussion of the general functions of stories, the authors use a variety of case examples to illustrate how “The Story” can be used as an assessment device, as an initial intervention, and as a gauge of the progress of treatment. Family stories of loss are conceptualized as constructions, and the emphasis is on how individual and family context affect and are affected by these stories. Throughout the paper, particular attention is paid to ways stories canbe useful for children in families.
GaN HEMT reliability

This paper reviews the experimental evidence behind a new failure mechanism recently identified in GaN high-electron mobility transistors subject to electrical stress. Under high voltage, it has been found that electrically active defects are generated in the AlGaN barrier or at its surface in the vicinity of the gate edge. These defects reduce the drain current, increase the parasitic resistance and provide a path for excess gate current. There is mounting evidence for the role of the inverse piezoelectric effect in introducing mechanical stress in the AlGaN barrier layer and eventually producing these defects. The key signature of this mechanism is a sudden and non-reversible increase in the gate leakage current of several orders of magnitude. This degradation mechanism is voltage driven and characterized by a critical voltage below which degradation does not occur. This hypothesis suggests several paths to enhance the electrical reliability of GaN HEMTs which are borne out by experiments.
The Characterization and Feasibility of a Low-Duty-Cycle Fast Valve for Impulse Facilities

This paper describes the feasibility and characterization of a novel fast valve concept, which can replace the diaphragms in shock and Ludweig tube facilities. The proposed fast valve system consists of a rotating door and locking camshaft system. The concept was tested in a bench-top scale shock tube facility, which was operated over a driver gas (air) pressure range of 60 to 500 psig, with a duty cycle of 6 seconds. The measured wave speeds (MS = 1.7 – 2.0) were within 3.1% of that predicted by ideal shock tube theory and a statistical repeatability within 7.9 %. However, the post-shock driven gas pressures were approximately half that expected from ideal shock tube theory, which was attributed to losses associated with the mechanism (66% area increase) and incomplete shock wave formation. Nonetheless, these results show promise that the rotating door opening time may be sufficient for repeatable Ludweig tubes and shock wave generation given higher driver gas pressures and a longer test section.
The adsorption of hydroxamate on semi-soluble minerals. Part I: Adsorption on barite, Calcite and Bastnaesite

Abstract The uptake of potassium octyl hydroxamate on barite, calcite and bastnaesite has been determined as a function of time, reagent concentration and pH. The results of this adsorption study indicate a surface reaction/chemisorption mechanism whereby the cations on the mineral surface form hydroxy complexes in solution, readsorb at the interface, and then interact with the hydroxamate. The hydroxamate polar group is highly specific to rare-earth cations as compared to alkaline-earth cations, Ca ++ and Ba ++ , giving rise to very extensive and rapid uptake on bastnaesite in comparison to calcite and barite. Multilayers of adsorbed hydroxamate form on bastnaesite and calcite.
Antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective layer-by-layer coatings for neural implants

Objective. Infection, inflammation, and neuronal loss are common issues that seriously affect the functionality and longevity of chronically implanted neural prostheses. Minocycline hydrochloride (MH) is a broad-spectrum antibiotic and effective anti-inflammatory drug that also exhibits potent neuroprotective activities. In this study, we investigated the development of biocompatible thin film coatings capable of sustained release of MH for improving the long term performance of implanted neural electrodes. Approach. We developed a novel magnesium binding-mediated drug delivery mechanism for controlled and sustained release of MH from an ultrathin hydrophilic layer-by-layer (LbL) coating and characterized the parameters that control MH loading and release. The anti-biofilm, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective potencies of the LbL coating and released MH were also examined. Main results. Sustained release of physiologically relevant amount of MH for 46 days was achieved from the Mg2+-based LbL coating at a thickness of 1.25 μm. In addition, MH release from the LbL coating is pH-sensitive. The coating and released MH demonstrated strong anti-biofilm, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective potencies. Significance. This study reports, for the first time, the development of a bioactive coating that can target infection, inflammation, and neuroprotection simultaneously, which may facilitate the translation of neural interfaces to clinical applications.
A Preliminary Study for 3D Numerical Simulation of a Through-Plane Temperature Profile in a PEMFC Incorporating Coolant Channels

In a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC), the water removal from the cathode to reactant flow channels is a critical aspect of cell operation. This is an active area of research to understand the transport mechanisms of water. In the available literature, it has been shown that a significant portion of the product water is removed in vapor form by the heat pipe effect through the gas diffusion layer (GDL). The intensity of the heat pipe effect is dependent on the local mean temperature and the through-plane temperature gradient across the GDL. This gradient is spatially affected by the reactant channel-land patterns of the bipolar plate (BPP) and the coolant plate operation. Therefore, the heat pipe effect can have spatial variances depending on the BPP design and cooling method. In order to show the local temperature and through-plane temperature gradient distribution in a GDL, a numerical approach was taken in this work using a commercially available software package, COMSOL Multiphysics
Increasing prevalence of methicillin resistance in serious ocular infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus in the United States: 2000 to 2005

PURPOSE: To report the nationwide prevalence of methicillin resistance in serious ocular infections involving Staphylococcus aureus and profile in vitro antimicrobial susceptibility of S aureus from ocular isolates over time. SETTING: Proprietary electronic database. METHODS: Data on S aureus submitted to The Surveillance Network (TSN) by more than 200 laboratories in the United States from January 2000 to December 2005 were reviewed. The prevalence of methicillin resistance in S aureus ocular infections and in vitro susceptibility to antibiotic agents commonly used to treat or prevent ocular infections were determined. RESULTS: The proportion of S aureus infections culture-positive for methicillin-resistant S aureus (MRSA) increased from 29.5% in 2000 to 41.6% in 2005. The MRSA ocular isolates were multidrug resistant; that is, in vitro resistance to 3 antibiotic agents or more, including all fluoroquinolones tested. CONCLUSIONS: Multidrug-resistant MRSA is increasing in serious ocular infections. Based on the rate of increase in the TSN database, MRSA cultures from serious ocular infections could be more common than methicillin-susceptible S aureus within 2 to 3 years. Large-scale national surveillance programs are needed to monitor in vitro antimicrobial resistance trends in ocular isolates.
miR-24, miR-30b, and miR-142-3p Regulate Phagocytosis in Myeloid Inflammatory Cells

Micro-RNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs that regulate various biological pathways. As their role in phagocytosis remains poorly understood, we investigated their impact on phagocytosis in myeloid inflammatory cells. Seven miRNAs (miR-24, -30b, -101, 142-3p, -652-3p, -652-5p, and -1275) that were differentially expressed during monocyte to macrophage (Mφ) and monocyte to dendritic cell (DC) differentiation were screened for their potential role in phagocytosis. Among these, overexpression of miR-24, miR-30b, and miR-142-3p in human monocyte-derived Mφ, DC, monocytes, and PBMCs significantly attenuate phagocytosis of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, as well as the secretion of inflammatory mediators, including TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-12p40. miRNA-mediated changes in cytokine profiles were observed at transcriptional and/or posttranscriptional levels and importantly exhibit miRNA-specific impact. To examine the underlying mechanism, we monitored the expression of phagocytosis pathway-associated genes and identified several genes that were altered in Mφ and DC transfected with miR-24, miR-30b, and miR-142-3p mimics. Some of these genes with altered expression also harbor putative miRNA binding sites. We show that miR-142-3p directly regulates protein kinase Cα (PKCα), a key gene involved in phagocytosis. Interestingly, miR-142-3p and PKCα exhibit antagonistic expression during Mφ and DC differentiation. Short interfering RNA-mediated knockdown of PKCα in Mφ leads to reduced bacterial uptake, further highlighting the role of the gene in phagocytosis. Overall, these results demonstrate that miR-24, miR-30b, and miR-142-3p regulate phagocytosis and associated cytokine production in myeloid inflammatory cells through modulation of various genes involved in the pathway.
UHV Microscopy of the Reconstructed Au (001) Surface

We investigate the evolution of the microstructure of a reconstructed Au (001) single crystal surface using ultra high vacuum transmission electron microscopy (UHV-TEM). Bulk single crystal Au (001) surfaces were prepared via standard metallographic techniques and sputter anneal cycles. After a clean surface was obtained, the (001) surface was found to reconstruct into two nearly orthogonal domains of dimensions (5 x ~ 20 ) along the directions of the unreconstructed F.C.C. (001) surface. Transmission electron diffraction patterns (TED) and dark field microscopy are the two primary techniques used to determine the symmetry and dimensions of the reconstructed surface.
Use of Two Distillation Columns in Systems with Maximum Temperature Limitations

Maximum temperature limitations are encountered in distillation columns in which thermally sensitive materials are being separated. Fixing the temperature and composition of the bottoms product fixes the column base pressure and, hence, the condenser pressure. The distillate composition at this pressure sets the condenser temperature. In many systems, this temperature is lower than that attainable with cooling water, so expensive refrigeration must be used. Instead of using a single column with a refrigerated condenser, it is sometimes more economical to use two columns. In the first column, pressure is established to permit the use of cooling water (322 K reflux-drum temperature), and a portion of the light component is produced as the distillate stream. The maximum base temperature limitation is achieved by taking a bottoms stream that is a mixture of the light and heavy components. Then this stream is separated in a second column that uses a refrigerated condenser. The rest of the light component is pr...
Path planning for optimal cooperative navigation

For many navigation scenarios, it is known that the accuracy of navigation state estimates depends on the path traveled, particularly when access to external navigation aids such as the Global Positioning System (GPS) is not available. In this work, we present a path planning method that attempts to minimize the navigation uncertainty of a pair of autonomous vehicles traveling from known initial locations to desired goal locations. For the scenario considered in this study, each vehicle has an onboard odometer for measuring relative changes in position and heading. The vehicles also have sensors for measuring the range between the vehicles. Navigation state estimates are obtained using a centralized batch factor graph approach implemented with the Georgia Tech Smoothing and Mapping (GTSAM) library. In previous work on this problem, candidate vehicle trajectories were chosen from a restricted class of trajectories referred to as pseudo-zigzagging. An exhaustive search of all possible trajectories in this class revealed that the final position uncertainty could be reduced by a factor of 5 when compared with the case of each vehicle traveling straight to its goal location. In the work we present here, the trajectories are no longer restricted to such a limited class. Instead, each path is constructed from a small set of waypoints that may be placed anywhere. We have devised a method that takes an arbitrary set of waypoint locations and adjusts their locations so that the resulting path meets travel time and maneuverability constraints. Using just 3 waypoints for each vehicle path, and applying a simple random search optimization algorithm to the waypoint locations, the final position uncertainty can be reduced by another factor of 3. Thus, we achieve a total factor of 15 reduction in position uncertainty when compared to the straight path (i.e. worst) case. Also, the results indicate that the final position uncertainty can be different for each vehicle. Furthermore, the navigation certainty does not necessarily improve with increased travel time. Thus, travel time should be considered a free parameter (i.e. the time constraint is not necessarily an active constraint). As is the case for most practical nonlinear optimization problems, there is no guarantee that the results obtained in this work are globally optimal. Nevertheless, it is quite clear that path planning can be used to significantly reduce navigation uncertainty for the scenario under consideration.
Case Study of the Implementation of a Vision System in a Robotic Assembly Application

This paper describes the practical and theoretical aspects of interfacing a GE Optomation II vision system with an IBM 7565 robotic arm. We discuss our experiences in implementing such an interface, which was part of a project to demonstrate robotic assembly of personal computers.
Quality of life in children with Prader Willi Syndrome: Parent and child reports.

Abstract Purpose The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of the Peds QL4.0 instrument to assess quality of life (QL) in children with Prader Willi Syndrome (PWS). This study also sought to compare differences in parent and child report as well as between children with PWS and without PWS. Methods Parents and children with PWS (N = 44) completed the PedsQL 4.0 instrument. A sub-sample of children completed the Peds QL 4.0 a second time to assess test-retest reliability. A comparison sample of children who were obese but without PWS (N = 66) also completed the PedsQL 4.0. Results PedsQL 4.0 showed acceptable internal consistency for the child report (αs >0.72) and was acceptable for 4 out of the 6 scales for the parent report (αs >0.66). Test-retest reliability coefficients showed support for the reliability of the instrument (ICCs > 0.64). Parents perceived lower QL than children with PWS. Children with PWS also showed lower QL than children without PWS. Conclusions This study provides support for the use of the PedsQL 4.0 instrument in children with PWS. As observed in other populations, parents perceive a lower QL for their children with PWS than the children themselves.
Active Methodologies in Higher Education

The authors of this article provide a brief summary of the 2015 III La Salle Forum held on October, 15-17 at the Tetela Center in Cuernavaca, Mexico. The forum aimed to invite educators and scholars from different regions of the International Association of Lasallian Universities (IALU) to engage in presentations and reflective dialogue regarding Lasallian teaching competences with a focus on active methodologies in higher education. This overview describes the purpose of the forum, a brief background of the program, a synopsis of the keynote lectures and participant presentations, a summary of the breakout discussions, and concluding recommendations resulting from the forum.
Prefire heterogeneity, fire severity, and early postfire plant reestablishment in subalpine forests of Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

The 1988 fires in Yellowstone National Park providedan opportunity to study effects of a large infrequent disturbance on a natural community. This study addressed two questions: (1) How does prefire heterogeneity of the landscape affect postfire patterns of fire severity? and (2) How do postfire patterns of burn severity influence plant reestablishment? At three sites, 100 sampling points were distributed regularly in a 1-km x 1-km grid and sampled annually from 1989 to 1992. Information was recorded on fire severity (damage to trees, depth of ash and soil charring, and percent mineral soil exposed); pre-fire forest structure (forest successional stage; tree density; tree species; tree size; and evidence of pre-fire disturbance by mountain pine beetle [Dendroctonus ponderosae Hopk.] or mistletoe [Arceuthobium americanum Nutt. ex Engelm.]); post-fire percent cover of graminoids, forbs, and low shrubs; number of lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta var. latifolia Engelm.) seedlings; and general topographic characteristics (slope and aspect). Fire severity was influenced by successional stage, with older stands more likely to be in the more severe burn class, and by tree diameter, with tree damage diminishing with tree size. Prefire bark beetle and mistletoe damage also influenced fire severity; severe prefire damage increased the likelihood of crown fire, but intermediate prefire damage reduced the likelihood of crown fire. Fire severity was not influenced by slope, aspect, or tree density. Postfire percent vegetative cover and density of lodgepole pine seedlings varied with burn severity. In lightly burned areas, percent cover returned to unburned levels by 1991. In severely burned areas, total percent cover was about half that of unburned areas by 1992, and shrub cover remained reduced. Recruitment of lodgepole pine seedlings was greatest during the second postfire year and in severe-surface burns rather than in crown fires. Continued monitoring of vegetation dynamics in Yellowstone’s burned forests will contribute to our understanding of successional processes following a disturbance that was exceptional in its size and severity.
Keep Those Kids Out: Nativism and Attitudes toward Access to Public Education for the Children of Undocumented Immigrants.

ABSTRACTDespite the 1982 Plyler v. Doe decision guaranteeing education for undocumented children, access appears to be under threat as some states and localities reconsider existing policy. The basis of these attitudes should be better understood. We are unaware of research that has examined nativist sentiment as a predictor of attitudes toward education policy for children. Using data from the 2006 Immigration Survey from the Pew Hispanic Center we consider the influence of cultural and economic nativism on attitudes toward education access for immigrant children. Findings show that certain measures of both forms of nativism predict opposition to education access.
Temperature-dependent large signal model of heterojunction bipolar transistors

A large signal model of the heterojunction bipolar transistor has been developed which simulates forward active, saturation, and cutoff operation, with both transient and steady-state thermal effects included. This model is useful for simulating devise characteristics with different heatsinking configurations, allowing the use of on-wafer measurements to predict packaged device performance. All transport parameters have been extracted from bias-dependent S-parameter measurements, while parameters describing the thermal effects have been extracted from DC and pulsed I-V characterization. Excellent agreement have been found between the model and DC, pulsed, and RF measurements. >
Is Family History of Breast Cancer Associated with Therapy-Related Myelodysplastic Syndrome and Therapy-Related Leukemia? .

Therapy-related myelodysplastic syndrome (t-MDS) and therapy-related acute myeloid leukemia (t-AML) occur in a subset of patients treated with chemotherapy and/or radiation for various primary malignancies. Whether or not a patient develops t-MDS/t-AML can be influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. We conducted a retrospective analysis of t-MDS/t-AML patients who had cytogenetic analyses performed at the University of Chicago Hospitals between 1972 and 2001 to determine if a family history of cancer could be associated with t-MDS/t-AML development. These included 141 males and 165 females whose median age was 51 years (range was from 3–83 years) at the time of primary diagnosis and 58 years (range was from 6–86 years) at the time of t-MDS/t-AML presentation. Out of 306 patients, data on first-degree family history of cancer was documented in 160 patients, but there was no statistically significant difference in the characteristics examined below between patients with self-reported family history of cancer and patients with undocumented family histories. A first-degree family history of any cancer was reported in 89 patients (55.6%). The prevalence of family history of specific sites were: 25 (15.6%) of breast cancer, 23 (14.4%) of lung cancer, 13 (8.1%) of colorectal cancer, 11 (6.9%) of hematologic malignancy, 10 (2.3%) of prostate cancer, 6 (3.8%) of stomach cancer, 5 (3.1%) of uterine cancer, 5 (3.1%) of CNS cancer, 5 (3.1%) of pancreas cancer, 4 (2.5%) of melanoma, 3 (1.9%) of oral-pharyngeal cancer, 3 (1.9%) of ovarian cancer, 3 (1.9%) of cervical cancer, 2 (1.3%) of vulvar cancer, 1 (0.6%) each of bladder cancer, sarcoma, renal cancer, or esophageal cancer. Of note, only a family history of breast cancer was associated with clinical presentation as show in Table 1 below. Patients with a family history of breast cancer were also more likely to have a chromosome 5 and/or 7 abnormality (84%) than patients without (62%, p=0.04). There was no significant association between family history of cancer at other sites and clonal cytogenetic abnormalities. A subgroup analysis was conducted in patients with a primary diagnosis of breast or ovarian cancer. Of the 24 patients who had data on family history of cancer, 16.7% reported having a first degree relative with breast cancer. These findings suggest a possible genetic component linking family history of breast cancer and development of t-MDS/t-AML, as was previously reported by Rauscher et al . (2002) for de novo adult leukemia incidence. Further studies of family histories of cancer, in particular breast cancer among patients receiving chemotherapy and/or radiation, could potentially elucidate the genetic basis of leukemia and ultimately lead to new tools for risk assessment, early detection or prevention of secondary leukemia in cancer survivors.
Utilizing morphological correlators for device performance to optimize ternary blend organic solar cells based on block copolymer additives

Abstract In a recent work, we studied donor-acceptor blend based organic photovoltaics and, by utilizing a combination of morphology simulations and device modeling, demonstrated that block copolymer compatibilizers with appropriately selected energy levels can be used in such systems to give rise to highly efficient devices that, in some cases, can even outperform idealized morphologies. In the present study, we probe whether morphological simulations can be used in conjunction with simple morphological descriptors as a means to screen the performance characteristics of such energy cascade based ternary blend devices as predicted using device-level simulations. Towards this objective, we present results from different parameter combinations to demonstrate that the domain size, percolation ratio, tortuosity of domains, and concentration gradient at the interface between donors and acceptors correlate strongly with the device performance of such ternary blend systems. Subsequently, we present extensive parameter studies where we simultaneously vary the blend composition, the degree of polymerization of the donor homopolymer, and the acceptor composition of the donor-b-acceptor block copolymer to identify blend formulations that give rise to such optimal morphological and device characteristics. Finally, we demonstrate that, while the overall device performance depends on a combination of morphological factors, the morphological descriptors identified in our work may help identify promising blend formulations.
Exposing Inpainting Forgery in JPEG Images under Recompression Attacks

Inpainting, originally designed in computer vision to reconstruct lost or deteriorated parts of images and videos, has been used for image tampering, including region filling and object removal to alter the truth. While several types of tampering including copy-move and seam carving forgery can now be successfully exposed in image forensics, there has been very little study to tackle inpainting forgery in JPEG images, the detection of which is extremely challenging due to the post-recompression attacks performed to cover or compromise original inpainting traces. To date, there is no effective way to detect inpainting image forgery under combined recompression attacks. To fill such a gap in image forensics and reveal inpainting forgery from the post-recompression attacks in JPEG images, we propose in this paper an approach that begins with large feature mining in discrete transform domain, ensemble learning is then applied to deal with the high feature dimensionality and to prevent the overfitting that generally happens to some regular classifiers under high feature dimensions. Our study shows the proposed approach effectively exposes inpainting forgery under post recompression attacks, especially, it noticeably improves the detection accuracy while the recompression quality is lower than the original JPEG image quality, and thus bridges a gap in image forgery detection.
Preclinical models of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma

Unlike many other cancers, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has seen only incremental improvement in mortality despite significant advances in our understanding of the underlying biology. A primary obstacle to progress has been our inability to properly model PDAC in a preclinical setting. PDAC is difficult to study because of its genetic heterogeneity, intricate stromal microenvironment, and complex interplay with our immune system. Finding a model that properly accounts for all these criteria remains difficult. This review summarizes the five primary models currently in use: human PDAC cell line, cell line xenograft, patient derived xenograft, genetically engineered mouse model (GEMM), and organoids. We delve into the advantages of disadvantages of each model, while discussing how each model has been or could be used in the preclinical setting.
Paradoxical effects of increasing the normal retirement age: A prospective evaluation

Abstract A life-cycle model that incorporates both Disability Insurance (DI) and Old-Age Insurance (OAI) is developed to study Social Security reforms, and is compared to an alternative model without DI. The model with DI predicts that increasing the normal retirement age (NRA) causes a decrease in employment and an increase in DI receipt, and that the decrease of payroll tax revenue and the increase of DI expenses combined offset about 40% of the decrease of OAI expenses. These paradoxical effects of increasing the NRA are absent from the model without DI. I employ both models to search for reforms that will balance the government budget in an economy with an aging population, which has the demographics for the year 2100, and find that the required change in tax and benefit rules differ substantially across the two models.
Tumor lysis syndrome following radiation therapy in metastatic pancreatic cancer: A case report

A 65-year-old female presented to radiation oncology for potential treatment options due to metastatic pancreatic cancer and significant abdominal pain. Imaging demonstrated a large pancreatic mass with lymphadenopathy, vascular encasement, and liver metastases. She initiated palliative radiation treatment and developed persistent nausea and vomiting, as well as significant laboratory derangements. She was subsequently admitted and diagnosed with tumor lysis syndrome, though this diagnosis is usually an oncologic emergency seen with hematologic malignancies following chemotherapy.
Diffusion in networks by cooperative particle filtering

In this paper, we propose a diffusion method for estimation of hidden processes by cooperative agents in a network. We adopt particle filtering for estimating the hidden processes. Each filter has it own observation process, unknown to the rest of the agents, but the hidden process is the same for all the agents. The agents track the hidden process, form their posteriors of the process and then approximate it with Gaussians. Then they exchange these Gaussians to form fused posteriors and to allow for diffusing of information across the network. The Gaussian approximation of the posterior distributions simplify the calculations in the diffusion steps. The simulation results show that the proposed method has similar performance as the centralized method.
A Biomechanical and Clinical Review: The Dall-Miles Cable System

The Dall-Miles Cable System (Stryker Orthopaedics, Mahwah, NJ, USA) has been in clinical use since 1983. It was initially developed for reattachment of the greater trochanter in low-friction arthroplasty of the hip. The clinical uses have evolved considerably over the years. It is now used largely as a cerclage system, particularly in revision total hip arthroplasty (THA). A biomechanical review includes a comparison of the mechanical strength of different cerclage systems. The strength of wire and cable fastening systems is examined. The importance of fatigue strength is presented and discussed. The relationship between tensile strength and fatigue performance is analyzed, and comparative data are presented. A review of the clinical use of cable cerclage is presented, including fixation of the greater trochanter in various trochanteric osteotomy approaches to the hip, the use of the system in revision THA, femoral allografts, its use in fixation of periprosthetic fractures of the femur in THA, and the use of the system in augmentation of other forms of fracture fixation, emphasizing its value in the treatment of fractures in soft bone.
Resilience to Risk for Psychopathology: The Role of White Matter Microstructural Development in Adolescence.

Abstract Background One major risk factor for the development of psychopathology is a family history of psychopathology (FHP). Cross-sectional studies have shown that FHP is associated with alterations in white matter microstructure in adolescents without current psychopathology; however, whether these associations persist throughout adolescence, particularly in those who remain resilient to developing psychopathology, is unclear. Methods Sixty-six adolescents underwent diffusion-weighted imaging at baseline (12–16 years of age) and at one or two follow-up visits (142 total scans). Adolescents’ parents completed a modified Family History Assessment Module to calculate FHP density (FHPD) based on familial alcohol use, substance use, and major depressive, generalized anxiety, substance-induced mood, and antisocial personality disorders. The relationship between FHPD and white matter microstructural development was examined using multilevel modeling. Results FHPD was associated with significant alterations in white matter microstructure at baseline; in the bilateral superior corona radiata and left superior longitudinal fasciculus, these effects were transient (FHPD was associated with altered white matter microstructure only in early adolescence), while effects in the posterior limb of the internal capsule were persistent. Associations between FHPD and white matter microstructure in the body of the corpus callosum emerged later in adolescence. Conclusions This prospective, longitudinal study provides novel information indicating that the association between FHP and white matter microstructure previously observed in adolescents is transient in most regions but may persist into late adolescence in other regions, despite current resilience to developing psychopathology. Future studies are necessary to determine if these persistent alterations are associated with onset of psychopathology later in life.
Identification of Salmonella Taxon-Specific Peptide Markers to the Serovar Level by Mass Spectrometry.

We present an LC–MS/MS pipeline to identify taxon-specific tryptic peptide markers for the identification of Salmonella at the genus, species, subspecies, and serovar levels of specificity. Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovars Typhimurium and its four closest relatives, Saintpaul, Heidelberg, Paratyphi B, and Muenchen, were evaluated. A decision-tree approach was used to identify peptides common to the five Salmonella proteomes for evaluation as genus-, species-, and subspecies-specific markers. Peptides identified for two or fewer Salmonella strains were evaluated as potential serovar markers. Currently, there are approximately 140 000 assembled bacterial genomes publicly available, more than 8500 of which are for Salmonella. Consequently, the specificity of each candidate peptide marker was confirmed across all publicly available protein sequences in the NCBI nonredundant (nr) database. The performance of a subset of candidate taxon-specific peptide markers was evaluated in a targeted mass-spect...
The Application of a Radioimmunoassay for Sensitive Detection of Metallothionein (Thionein) in Physiologic Fluid of Humans and Rats

Recently a radioimmunoassay (RIA) has been developed in my laboratory for the sensitive detection of metallothionein (Mt) or its precursor, thionein (Th). These metal-binding proteins are of considerable interest to toxicologists (see this volume, Chapters 25 and 26). The assay (VanderMallie and Garvey, 1979; Chang et al., 1980a) is a competitive, double antibody (Ab) type of RIA, set up in tubes and involving three stages of reaction at 4° C. For standardization, the first stage is incubation of primary Ab (specific Ab vs Mt) with known amounts of unlabeled Mt; the second stage is a continued incubation after addition of [125I]-Mt; and the third stage is addition of secondary Ab and continued incubation. Cen-trifugation is then used to separate the bound [125I]-Mt from the free [125I]-Mt and the radioactivity in the precipitate is determined by gamma counting. Along with the assay tubes with varying amounts of known unlabeled Mt, there is an assay for “maximum bound” (B0), i.e., a tube that lacks any nonlabeled competing Mt, and also an assay for “nonspecific bound”(NSB), i.e., a tube that lacks the primary Ab. Using the precipitated counts (cpm) in the relationship (cpm - NSB)/(B0 - NSB), a plot is prepared relating % bound (F) to log Mt protein. This customarily sigmoid curve is called a standard curve. In the case of the RIA for Mt it characteristically has an essentially linear region which can be well-represented by a linear-log regression relating Y and log Mt. This regression is then used to quantitate samples containing unknown amounts of Mt.
119th Annual Meeting, Medical Library Association, Inc., Chicago, IL, May 3–8, 2019

The Medical Library Association (MLA) held its 119th annual meeting in Chicago, Illinois May 3–8, 2019, at the Hyatt Regency Chicago. The meeting theme was “Elevate.”
A Diversity-Based Clustering Technique For Implementing Decentralized Node Level Charge Scheduling Of Electric Vehicles

The number of Electric Vehicles in usage has been increasing and this trend creates a lot of challenges to the existing power grid. The advancements in the communication and control infrastructure have made applications such as real time charge scheduling of the Electric Vehicles possible. The main issue in case of Electric Vehicle charge scheduling is the scalability and the uncertainty concerning the customer charging patterns. In this work, a decentralized node level clustering technique based on customers charging pattern has been developed. An Integer Linear programming scheme is used to schedule the Electric Vehicles in each group separately. The detailed study of the effectiveness of the method developed is also presented in the paper.
Determinism and Destigmatization: Mitigating Blame for Addiction

The brain disease model of addiction is widely endorsed by agencies concerned with treating behavioral disorders and combatting the stigma often associated with addiction. However, both its accuracy and its effectiveness in reducing stigma have been challenged. A proposed alternative, the “choice” model, recognizes the residual rational behavior control capacities of addicted individuals and their ability to make choices, some of which may cause harm. Since harmful choices are ordinarily perceived as blameworthy, the choice model may inadvertently help justify stigma. This paper seeks to fully naturalize the choice model by highlighting the determinants of voluntary action and thus increase its potential for destigmatizing addiction. In light of a deterministic understanding of behavior, it is unreasonable to suppose that addicted individuals could have made different choices in becoming addicted and in subsequent situations. To the extent that stigma is motivated by the supposition that addicted individuals could have chosen otherwise in actual situations, a deterministic understanding of addictive behavior promises to mitigate blame and stigma.
Supreme Court Yearbook: Class of October Term 2011

Each term the Supreme Court decides a mere seventy-five or so cases out of the more than 8,000 petitions for certiorari seeking review. It’s no surprise then, that, for many attorneys, arguing a case before the highest court in the nation is the crowning achievement of their career. For a select few, however, it is simply business as usual. Who are these individuals? This year's "Supreme Court Yearbook" provides a look at each member of the Supreme Court Bar who served as the counsel of record in a case during the October Term 2011, ranking them in order based on the number of cases they handled. This year's "Supreme Court Yearbook" similarly ranks the law firms involved in the 2011 term based on the number of cases for which they supplied the counsel of record.