cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Orthodoxy and solidarity: competing claims and international adjustment in Yugoslavia

Yugoslav policies of domestic adjustment to world economic changes during 1973â€“85 are the result of two sets of constraints imposed by the strategy of the ruling communist party for retaining its power:(1) an open international strategy for economic growth and national autonomy, chosen in the 1940s, that includes extensive use of foreign capital resources, and (2) the coalition of competing political and economic interests gathered within the party, which has been maintained by granting autonomy to producers, limits on the economic role of the state, and successive devolution of financial and administrative authority. The first imposes external budget constraints, the terms of which are defined by foreign creditors and supported by domestic economic liberals; the second imposes domestic political constraints that narrow the policy alternatives, limit their effective implementation, and require compromises that encourage further borrowing and political reform. The policy result is central party determination of policy orientation; macroeconomic stabilization policies that have continually given priority to maintaining the external balance and that combine orthodox deflation with administrative controls; periodic alternation in structural adjustment policies between a developmental, redistributive emphasis and an exportoriented, liberal, market emphasis, depending on the external constraints; and political and institutional flexibility in response to each policy shift and in order to maintain political order.
A New Centroid Based Fault Detection Method for 3-Phase Inverter-Fed Induction Motors

A novel, simpler, and non-invasive fault detection and data reduction method for inverter-fed induction motors is developed in this paper. Using a centroid determination method, location and type of the fault in a three-phase system, specifically in an induction motor and the PWM current-controlled inverter that feeds it, is identified. MATLAB simulations and the DSpace DSP based experiments are discussed in detail to prove the effectiveness of the proposed new method. The fault monitoring algorithms use pattern symmetry across the positive and negative alpha-beta axes after the three-phase currents are transformed from a-b-c to alpha-beta plane using Concordia transform. This allows detection method to view motor and inverter AC currents in the time independent realm by using cycle-by-cycle single point symmetry of the current spectrum. The proposed method detects a variety of probable faults in real-time and requires reduced computational efforts. Therefore, it is simpler, cost-effective, and free from hardware complexity associated with traditional fault diagnosis methods
Helping students make the transition from novice to expert problem-solvers

Engineers, by definition, need to be good problem solvers. This paper discusses a model for building on a traditional engineering curriculum to systematically develop students' problem solving skills. The curriculum structure consists of required courses that emphasize problem solving at distinct levels. The courses are broken down into introductory, intermediate and advanced problem solving courses. The type of problems utilized in each course differentiates the courses. The problems posed are qualitatively different, not simply harder, thus requiring the students to engage different skill sets for resolution. As a result, the courses develop different problem solving abilities. The model for teaching problem solving has been developed through Project Catalyst, which is an NSF funded initiative to improve undergraduate engineering education. This paper presents the details of the proposed model, discusses educational modules that have been developed to aid instructors introducing problem solving in their courses and provides some initial assessment of the results to date.
A computer model allowing maintenance of large amounts of genetic variability in Mendelian populations. II. The balance of forces between linkage and random assortment.

ABSTRACT It is shown, through theory and computer simulations of outbreeding Mendelian populations, that there may be conditions under which a balance is struck between two factors. The first is the advantage of random assortment, which will, when multilocus selection is for intermediate equilibrium values, lead to higher average heterozygosity than when linkage is introduced. There is some indication that random assortment is also advantageous when selection is toward a uniform distribution of equilibrium values. The second factor is the advantage of linkage between loci having positive epistatic interactions. When multilocus selection is for a bimodal distribution of equilibrium values, an early advantage of random assortment is replaced by a later disadvantage. Linkage disequilibrium, which in finite populations is increased only by random or selective sampling, may hinder the movement of alleles to their selective equilibria, thus leading to the advantage of random assortment.—Some consequences of this approach to the structure of natural populations are discussed.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa elastase and elastolysis revisited: recent developments

With the determination of the three-dimensional structure of elastase and the probable identification of the active site and key residues involved in proteolytic activity, our knowledge of the molecular details of this interesting protease is rapidly increasing. Pseudomonas elastase appears to be remarkably similar to the Bacillus metalloproteinase thermolysin. A further significant development has been the discovery of the lasA gene and the fact that Pseudomonas elastase and alkaline proteinase appear to act in concert with the LasA protein to display the notable elastolytic activity exhibited by isolates of this organism. Biochemical and genetic studies indicate that LasA is a second elastase which may be an important virulence factor that has been overlooked in previous studies.
Implementation of a numerical needle method for thin-film design

A variant of the powerful thin-film needle design technique, which was first described by Tikhonravov and his co-workers, is described. In this method thin layers are introduced at optimum positions within the refractive-index profile of a given multilayer system. In the original method the optimum locations for the layer insertions are calculated analytically, whereas in this variant of the method they are determined numerically. This approach, although somewhat slower, is very flexible. With the numerical needle method it is easy to define a merit function that consists of quite complex spectral quantities, such as Commission Internationale de l'Eclairage color coordinates or custom spectral properties that are defined at run time. In the program described, three different absorbing or nonabsorbing materials can be used for the needle layers and one or more needles can be inserted into the system at any given time. Multilayer solutions can also be sought in which the system is defined in terms of repeating groups of layers. It is also possible to calculate automatically a series of solutions to a particular problem with increasing overall thicknesses or to perform simultaneous calculations on several different systems. Examples are given that illustrate these various points.
Dimerization on GaN(001) Surfaces

The GaN(OOl) surface is polar with either N- or Ga-termination. We predict that the Ga-terminated surface does not dimerize, but instead the surface Ga atoms relax into the vacuum by about ≈0.38 A. The N-terminated surface is predicted to form a c(2×4) structure with N 2 dimers in rows of length two. This is to be contrasted with the (2×1) Si(001) surface, on which the dimer rows are infinitely long, and with the (2×4) GaAs(OO1) surface, on which the rows are three dimers long.
Access Delay Analysis of IEEE 802.11 DCF in the Presence of Hidden Stations

In this paper, we present an analytical model to evaluate the hidden station effect on the access delay of the IEEE 802.11 distributed coordination function (DCF) in both non-saturation and saturation condition. DCF is a random channel-access scheme based on carrier sense multiple access with collision avoidance (CSMA/CA) method and the exponential backoff procedure to reduce packet collisions. However, hidden stations still cause many collisions under CSMA/CA method because stations cannot sense each other's transmission and often send packets concurrently, resulting in significant performance degradation. Prior research has built accurate access delay model for 802.11 DCF. However, the hidden station effect on the performance has not been adequately studied. Our model generalizes the existing work on access delay modeling of 802.11 DCF for both non-saturation and saturation conditions, under the hidden-station effect. The performance of our model is evaluated by comparison with ns-2 simulations and they are found to agree.
Formaldehyde-Induced Histone Modifications in Vitro

Numerous experiments have demonstrated the genotoxic and mutagenic effects of formaldehyde, including DNA-protein cross-links (DPC). Histone was reported to be involved in the formation of DPC in which the e-amino groups of lysine and exocyclic amino groups of DNA were thought to be cross-linked through multiple step reactions. Using mass spectrometry, the N-terminus of histone and lysine residues located in both the histone N-terminal tail and the globular fold domain were identified as binding sites for formaldehyde in the current study. The observation that only lysine residues without post-translational modification (PTM) can be attacked by formaldehyde indicates that PTM blocks the reaction between lysine and formaldehyde. Additionally, we found that formaldehyde-induced Schiff bases on lysine residues could inhibit the formation of PTM on histone, raising the possibility that formaldehyde might alter epigenetic regulation.
STELLAR WIND MECHANISMS AND INSTABILITIES

I review driving mechanisms for stellar winds, using first the example of the coronal, pressure-driven solar wind, but then fo- cussing mainly on radiation-pressure driven winds from hot, luminous stars. For the latter, I review the central role of line-opacity as a coupling between matter and radiation, emphasizing how the Doppler shift of an accelerating wind outflow exposes the strong line opacity to a substantial continuum flux, and thus allows the line force to sustain the outward acceleration against gravity. Through the CAK formalism that assumes a power-law distribution of line-opacity, I derive the mass loss rate and wind velocity law, and discuss how these are altered by various refinements like a finite-disk correction, ionization variations in opacity, and a non-zero sound speed. I also discuss how multiline scattering in Wolf-Rayet (WR) winds can allow them to exceed the single scattering limit, for which the wind and radiative momenta are equal. Through a time-dependent perturbation analysis, I show how the line-driving leads to a fast, inward "Abbott-wave" mode for long wavelength perturbations, and a strong Line-Deshadowing-Instability at short wavelengths, summarizing also 1D and 2D numerical simula- tions of the nonlinear evolution of this instability. I next discuss how rapid stellar rotation alters the latitudinal variation of mass loss and flow speed, and how this depends on treatment of gravity darkening, nonradial line forces, and "bi-stability" shifts in ionization. Finally, I conclude with a discussion of the large mass loss epochs of Luminous Blue Variable (LBV) stars, and how these might be modeled via super- Eddington, continuum driving moderated by the "porosity" associated with extensive spatial structure.
On the optimal design of the PML absorbing boundary condition for the FDTD code

An analytical method to predict and optimize the performance of Berenger's (see J. Computat. Phys., vol.114, p.185-200, 1994) perfectly matched layer (PML) absorbing boundary condition (ABC) for finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) simulations is described. The shape of the conductivity in the PML layers has to be chosen carefully to obtain the best performance for a given number of layers. The relative error is shown to be the composite of two distinct effects: the theoretical reflection coefficient given by the PML layers backed by a metal plane and the second-order error in the differential intrinsic in the FDTD formulation. A theoretical expression to evaluate this error as a function of the number of PML layers and the shape of the conductivity is given, and the result is compared to that obtained for several FDTD test cases. The good agreement of the shapes of the theoretical and numerically derived curves allows the use of the theoretical formulation to optimize the PML region as a function of the shape of the conductivity, resolution, and number of layers.
Recruitment Enhancement as an Indicator of Oyster Restoration Success in Chesapeake Bay

Oyster ( Crassostrea virginica ) recruitment in Chesapeake Bay, USA, dropped precipitously as stocks declined (1920s–1985), then collapsed (1986–present). Occasional recruitment spikes occurred, driven primarily by seasonal drought. Recruitment spikes helped sustain the fishery at a small, variable level for years post-collapse, as fishers took advantage of these strong year classes. Historically, oyster recruitment was higher, more reliable, and more stock-driven, with weather exerting less, though still significant influence. Analysis of publicly available oyster spat (young juvenile oysters) settlement data revealed the reestablishment of a steadier, historic pattern of oyster settlement and recruitment potential in the Great Wicomico River (GWR), where local stocks have been greatly enhanced by a large sanctuary reef network constructed in 2004. In 2012, an oyster shellstring survey in the GWR revealed the highest mean oyster settlement for any Bay tributary since such surveys began nearly 70 years ago. This unprecedented recruitment enhancement is significantly correlated to the large stock on the sanctuary reefs and a strong indicator of restoration success and longterm sustainability, as these reefs are well past the average age of senescence (five years) for restored reefs. With the expansion of large-scale Eastern oyster restoration efforts in Maryland’s portion of the Chesapeake Bay, developing efforts in the northeastern states of Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey, and similar efforts to restore the Olympia oyster in the Pacific Northwest (Oregon, Washington, British Columbia), these findings are particularly timely and applicable.
Ostial plication: a rarely reported cause of sudden death.

We report a rare case of ostial plication as a potential cause of sudden death. Very few reports and images are available in the specialized literature regarding this anomaly. Ostial plication may be a source of sudden death or cause of death when no other significant autopsy findings are present.
A model for the bus system in Cuernavaca (Mexico)

The bus system in Cuernavaca, Mexico and its connections to random matrix distributions have been the subject of an interesting recent study by M Krbalek and P Seba in [15, 16]. In this paper we introduce and analyse a microscopic model for the bus system. We show that introducing a natural repulsion does produce random matrix distributions in natural double scaling regimes. The techniques employed include non-intersecting paths, logarithmic potential theory, determinantal point processes, and asymptotic analysis of several orthogonal polynomial ensembles. In addition, we introduce a circular bus model and include various calculations of non-crossing probabilities.
Bidirectional triode thyristor applied voltage rate effect following conduction

This paper describes the bidirectional thyristor commutation effect which involves the rate at which off-state voltage can be applied following current flow. This effect is contrasted to the circuit commutated turn-off time effect associated with semiconductor controlled rectifiers. To help describe the commutation effect in bidirectional devices, two common circuit applications are discussed. A test method is introduced for characterizing the commutation behavior as a function of all operating conditions. A great deal of quantitative information about the commutation effect is presented for a typical medium current bidirectional triode thyristor.
Genistein, the Isoflavone in Soybean, Causes Amyloid Beta Peptide Accumulation in Human Neuroblastoma Cell Line: Implications in Alzheimer's Disease

The isoflavone, genistein, present in soybean is being actively investigated for its potential beneficial effect against Alzheimer's disease. Our data, however, show that in SHSY5Y cells genistein causes increased expression (mRNA and protein) of amyloid precursor protein (APP), increased mRNA expression and activity of β-secretase and diminished level of insulin degrading enzyme (IDE) which also degrades amyloid beta peptide. These effects of genistein lead to enhanced accumulation of amyloid beta peptide (Aβ42) in SHSY5Y cells. The results do not support the view that genistein could be a putative drug against AD and instead strengthen the epidemiological study which implies that genistein content of soybean food product (Tofu) leads to cognitive impairment.
Donor-Specific HLA Antibody IgG Subclasses Are Associated with Phenotypes of Antibody-Mediated Rejection in Sensitized Renal Allograft Recipients

Donor-specific anti–histocompatibility leukocyte antigen antibodies (DSAs) have a strong and frequently considered universally deleterious effect on allografts. Preformed or de novo DSAs activate complement, induce endothelial cell proliferation, and mediate antibody-dependent cellular
Uncertainty Quantification of Structural Uncertainties in RANS Simulations of Complex Flows

A method is presented for building a statistical model for the structural uncertainties in RANS turbulence models. This approach compares the results of RANS calculations to direct numerical simulation for a collection of simple, randomly generated geometries. The adjoint method is used to eciently solve an inverse problem for each geometry to determine the RANS turbulent viscosity eld that most accurately reproduces the mean ow eld computed by direct numerical simulation. The discrepancy between the inferred turbulent viscosity and the turbulent viscosity predicted by RANS is modeled as a Gaussian random eld that is scaled according to the local ow eld properties. The uncertainty in the turbulent viscosity eld is then propagated to the engineering quantities of interest.
An Assessment of the Accuracy of the MCA45A1 Burned Area Product in Tallgrass Prairie

ABSTRACTBurned-area products like MODIS-MCD45A1 are designed to detect burned areas across a variety of biomes, but their global focus can lead to underclassification in some cases. This article evaluated the accuracy of the 500-m spatial resolution MCD45A1 product in tallgrass prairie. Independently derived 250-m spatial resolution burned area maps served as ground truth. MCD45A1 was evaluated at the annual level (burns aggregated into a yearly estimate) for each year from 2003 to 2011. Kappa analysis yielded Khat coefficient of agreement () values as low as 0.14 and as high as 0.58. The low values were mostly due to omission errors in the MDC45A1 data. The poor performance of MCD45A1 is likely due to several factors, including its relatively coarse spatial resolution, the fact that grassland fires can exhibit less charring than fires in other biomes, and the fact that that even when charring is sufficient to register as a burn, it often does not last long enough to overcome missing data periods (e.g., p...
Epidemiological analysis of HIV/AIDS in Changshu City from 200-2012

[Objective]To analyze the epidemic status and main risk factors of HIV/AIDS in Changshu City,and provide evidence for perfecting the prevention countermeasures.[Methods]The data of HIV/AIDS cases and epidemic surveillance in Changshu City from 2000-2012 were analyzed for analysis of descriptive epidemiology. [Results] From 2000—2012,a total of 196 cases of HIV/AIDS were identified in Changshu City. The case number showed an upward trend,the case number of floating population was similar with local population,with the proportion of local infections increasing in the recent years. The ratio of male-to-female was 3. 67∶1,and a majority of cases were people aged 20-49 years old and with the education level of junior middle school or below. The sexual transmission route accounted for 87. 24%,and the route of men who have sex with men( MSM) accounted for 43. 37%. [Conclusion]The epidemic of AIDS have improve significantly in Changshu City. It is important to strengthen the publicity,intervention,discovery,management and treatment,especially advocacy intervention for MSM,to curb the epidemic and the rapid spread of HIV/AIDS.
Characterizing the Non-Normal Distribution of Flow Cytometry Measurements from Transiently Expressed Constructs in Mammalian Cells

In mammalian cells, transient gene expression (TGE) is a rapid, minimal-investment alternative to single-copy integrations for testing of transgenic constructs. However, transient gene expression, as measured by flow cytometry with a fluorescent reporter, typically displays a broad, asymmetric distribution with a left-tail that is convolved with background signal. Common approaches for deriving a summary statistic for transiently expressed gene products impose a normal distribution on gated or ungated data. Summary statistics derived from these models are heavily biased by experimental conditions and instrument settings that are difficult to replicate and insufficient to accurately describe the underlying data. Here, we present a convolved gamma distribution as a superior model for TGE datasets. The 4-6 parameters of this model are sufficient to accurately describe the entire, ungated distribution of transiently transfected HEK cells expressing monomeric fluorescent proteins, that operates consistently across a range of transfection conditions and instrument settings. Based on these observations, a convolved gamma model of TGE distributions has the potential to significantly improve the accuracy and reproducibility of genetic device characterization in mammalian cells.
Theca function in polycystic ovaries of a patient with virilizing congenital adrenal hyperplasia

The steroidogenic activity of purified theca interstitial cells (TIC) from polycystic ovaries of a patient with virilizing congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency was studied in serum-free medium. The results show that CVAH TIC have high intrinsic basal androgen secretory activity that is dramatically stimulated by hCG, insulin, and lipoproteins, particularly HDL. Accordingly, the results support the hypothesis that TIC may contribute to the development of polycystic ovaries in CVAH patients, perhaps by mechanisms independent of the adrenal glands.
Management of the sleep apnoea syndrome in a general hospital

Resume Introduction Il y a peu d’etudes avec un recul important en nombre d’annees, disponibles sur la prise en charge du syndrome d’apnees du sommeil (SAS). Patients et methode Nous rapportons une analyse retrospective de prise en charge du SAS dans un service de pneumologie d’un hopital general avec un suivi du 1er janvier 1994 au 1er janvier 2010. Resultats Mille sept cent dix-huit patients sont diagnostiques porteurs d’un SAS et traites par pression positive continue (PPC). Mille cent soixante-treize sont toujours appareilles au 1er janvier 2010 representant 68,3 % de l’ensemble des patients. Quatre cent trente-trois patients ont arrete le traitement representant 25,2 % de l’ensemble des patients appareilles. Quatre-vingt-quatorze patients sont decedes alors qu’ils etaient appareilles. La mediane d’observance quotidienne des patients toujours appareilles est de 6,44 heures. Quarante-cinq pour cent des abandons surviennent durant le premier semestre. Quatre-vingt-onze pour cent des abandons surviennent durant les trois premieres annees. L’index d’apnees/hypopnees (IAH) moyen des patients desappareilles est de 44 contre 51 pour les patients toujours appareilles. La population âgee est bien observante au long cours. La prevalence de SAS severes necessitant un appareillage augmente dans ces dernieres annees probablement en lien avec l’evolution des pratiques. Conclusion Le nombre d’examens et d’appareillages est en croissance constante. L’observance de la PPC au long cours est satisfaisante. Les desappareillages surviennent les premiers mois et surtout dans le groupe non observant. La severite du SAS est moindre dans le groupe de patients desappareilles. L’âge avance n’est pas un obstacle au traitement par PPC.
Formalized mentorship program for newly hired pharmacists.

Research has shown that mentoring influences career choices and can positively affect personal development, mentee self-confidence, and research productivity.[1][1] In healthcare, mentoring can be crucial for the development of future leaders.[2][2] A formal mentorship program can ensure that
Frailty Index Is a Significant Predictor of Complications and Mortality After Surgery for Adult Spinal Deformity.

Study design Retrospective study of prospectively collected data. Objective To determine if the modified Frailty Index (mFI) could be used to predict postoperative complications in patients undergoing surgery for adult spinal deformity (ASD). Summary of background data Surgery for patients with ASD is associated with high complication rates and significant concerns present during risk stratification with older patients. The mFI is an evaluation tool to describe the frailness of an individual and how their preoperative status may impact postoperative survival and outcomes. Using a large nationwide database, we assessed the utility of this instrument in patients undergoing surgery for ASD. Methods The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program is a large multicenter clinical registry that prospectively collects preoperative variables, patient demographics, operative factors, and 30-day postoperative morbidity and mortality outcomes from about 400 hospitals nationwide. Current Procedural Terminology codes were used to query the database for adults who underwent fusion for spinal deformity. The previously described mFI was calculated based on the number of positive factors and univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to analyze the risk factors associated with mortality. Results Overall, 1001 patients were identified and the mean mFI score was 0.09 (range: 0-0.545). Increasing mFI score was associated with higher complication, reoperation, and mortality rates (P 60 years obesity class III, mFI was a superior predictor of several postoperative complications and reoperation. Conclusion Frailty was an independent predictor of postoperative complications, mortality, and reoperation in patients undergoing surgery for ASD. Preoperative assessment of the mFI in this patient population can be utilized to improve current risk models. Level of evidence 3.
Powerless Protagonists: Melodramatic Heroines of Victorian and Postfeminist Girlhood

This chapter introduces the concept of the powerless and victimized heroine in melodrama, situating the literary Jane Eyre and Bella Swan in their historical moments. When they recognize their own inadequacies, the protagonists’ self-consciousness is a response to restrictive discourses of “successful” Victorian and postfeminist girlhood. And as they aspire for equal footing with their respective Edwards, melodramatic expression makes the protagonists’ lack of social, cultural, political, and economic capital obvious—and sympathetic to girl readers. The first Twilight film amplifies Bella’s awkwardness, especially as the new girl in school, through voice-over, as well as cinematography and even costuming.
Fighting to Stay in Smeltertown: Lead Contamination and Environmental Justice in a Mexican American Community

\^/n the evening of 27 March 1972, the parish hall of the San Jos? de Cristo Rey Catholic Church in Smeltertown was packed with angry neighbors demanding answers. Just two years before, the City of El Paso and the State of Texas filed suit against the American Smelting and Refining Company's (ASARCO's) El Paso copper smelter for violating the 1967 Air Safety Code. But city county health officials sent to investigate the extent of ASARCO's violations made an even more alarming discovery: more than one hundred children in Smeltertown had abnormal, and potentially life-threatening, levels of lead in their bloodstreams.1 The public meeting that night was one of many that had taken place since the story erupted. But it was not lead, Smeltertown's children, or public health that had residents so upset. What had incited such emotion were the rumors that the city had targeted Smeltertown for demolition and that it would be condemned for habitation in thirty days.2 Before long, the meeting?attended by the mayor and members of the El Paso
Use of the SMiLE Program for Communication Treatment of a Bangladeshi Muslim Adult With Autism

Much of the current multicultural research in communication disorders is focused on the Latino and East Asian communities; however, the Muslim immigrant community is a fast-growing community with a...
Learning the Basics of Scholarly Communication: A Guide for New Subject Liaison Librarians

Academic librarians are playing a greater role in scholarly communication at their institutions. Scholarly communication has become a part of every academic librarian’s work. In particular, the role of subject liaison librarian often includes responsibilities related to advising discipline faculty on scholarly publishing, open access, institutional repositories and copyright. Liaison librarians might take on these responsibilities without having a firm grasp of the landscape of scholarly communication due to lack of experience or education in this area. This article is a guide to the key issues and concepts of scholarly communication for librarians new to this facet of academic librarianship. A guide to readings and resources is offered for librarians to educate themselves quickly on these basic issues.
Robust control for pseudolinear systems utilizing robust pole assignment controller, quasi-similarity transformation and an approximate feedback linearization

This study elucidates a robust control scheme for pseudolinear systems that are subject to some uncertainties. Pseudolinear systems are nonlinear systems that are fully feedback linearizable. The system involves robust pole assignment (RPA) control, quasi-similarity transformation (QST), and approximate feedback linearization (AFL). First, using the results of exact feedback linearization (EFL), we obtained an AFL controller, which can transform a nonlinear system into an equivalent Taylor linear form. Second, a QST between EFL and AFL was constructed. Third, the robust controller, which combines the RPA controller, the QST, and the AFL controller is applied to a perturbed nonlinear system such that the closed-loop perturbed nonlinear system exhibited robust control properties. We use an example to demonstrate that the robust scheme is highly effective and that it is not influenced under limited parameter uncertainties and equilibrium point variants.
Distributed optimization via primal-dual gradient dynamics with stochastic interactions

In this paper, we analyze the performance of the primal-dual gradient dynamics algorithm in the presence of stochastic communication channel uncertainty. In contrast to the existing results on the analysis of discretized primal-dual gradient dynamics with communication channel uncertainty, the main contribution of this work is in analyzing the stochastic continuous-time primal-dual gradient dynamics. Primal-dual gradient dynamics for distributed optimization are naturally modeled as a continuous-time dynamical system and analysis of this dynamics help us understand fundamental limitations and trade-offs between the cost function, network topology, and channel uncertainty for distributed optimization. We analyze the mean square stochastic stability of primal-dual gradient dynamics with communication channel uncertainty. The network topology is said to be more robust for distributed optimization if it can tolerate maximum variance of communication uncertainty. One of the important results of this paper is to show the existence of an optimal number of neighbors individual agent should have for robust distributed optimization. The optimal number is a function of network topology and cost function. If the network has more or less number of neighbors than the optimal number, then the network performance degrades. Simulation results involving nearest network topology are presented to verify the main conclusion of this paper.
Analysis of Covalent Modifications of Amyloidogenic Proteins Using Two-Dimensional Electrophoresis: Prion Protein and Its Sialylation.

A number of proteins associated with neurodegenerative disease undergo several types of posttranslational modifications. They include N-linked glycosylation of the prion protein and amyloid precursor protein, phosphorylation of tau and α-synuclein. Posttranslational modifications alter physical properties of proteins including their net and surface charges, affecting their processing, life-time and propensity to acquire misfolded, disease-associated states. As such, analysis of posttranslational modifications is important for understanding the mechanisms of pathogenesis. Recent studies documented that sialylation of the disease-associated form of the prion protein or PrPSc controls the fate of prions in an organism and outcomes of prion infection. For assessing sialylation status of PrPSc, we developed a reliable protocol that involves two-dimensional electrophoresis followed by Western blot (2D). The current chapter describes the procedure for the analysis of sialylation status of PrPSc from various sources including central nervous system, secondary lymphoid organs, cultured cells, or PrPSc produced in Protein Misfolding Cyclic Amplification.
Impact of Molecular Structure on Properties of n-Hexadecane and Alkylbenzene Binary Mixtures.

Because of the complexity of petroleum-based fuels, researchers typically use simplified mixtures, known as surrogates, to study combustion behavior and to attempt to identify how physical properties are related to combustion. The process of determining the surrogate composition to yield a desired set of thermophysical properties can be a complicated and time-consuming task. As a result, the use of computer simulations to narrow the number of possible surrogate compositions is beginning to be explored. Herein, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations are used to model binary mixtures of n-hexadecane with either benzene, toluene, n-ethylbenzene, n-propylbenzene, or n-butylbenzene. Calculated densities are in quantitative agreement with experimental values. With the exception of the mixtures containing benzene, simulated excess molar volumes are also in very good agreement with measured values. Isentropic bulk moduli are in qualitative agreement with experiment, and reproduce interesting trends observed in the e...
Psychiatric Characteristics of Alcoholics

The relationship between psychiatric disorders and the use and abuse of alcohol has been a poorly understood phenomenon in the field of human behavior. This relationship has been used politically to further a number of causes, and both conditions have been the subject of harshly negative social attitudes and punitive and ostracizing behavior by society. Much of the early writing in this area was concerned primarily with conditions arising from chronic excessive drinking. These “mental” disorders and their historic relationship to alcoholism have been well reviewed by Bowman and Jellinek (1941), and until recently, few attempts were made to delineate other relationships existing between these two conditions.
Confocal Digital Image Capture

Good microscopy includes optimizing the information obtainable from your confocal image with the minimum amount of effort and time. A key to achieving this goal is to match, as closely as possible, the parameters of all hardware and software in the image collection train. For reasons outlined in this chapter, it is particularly important to match the resolution of your digital image to the output resolution from the microscope. In Chap. 6, we discussed the resolution parameters of the digital image. In this chapter we cover the optical resolution obtainable from fluorescence confocal light microscopes, review the important parameters of the image acquisition hardware for the various types of confocal microscopes, and review how each influences the image information that is collected. We also illustrate how to match the microscope imaging parameters with the collecting capability of the image capture hardware to optimize confocal image acquisition. Two rapidly advancing areas of confocal microscopy are development of newer methods of producing excitation beams and advances in image capture equipment. We discuss these advances and compare methodologies as they relate to confocal microscopy.
Dans les arcanes du pouvoir: mémoires (1962–1999)

Relatively few Algerian military officers have written memoirs. The exception has been retired general Khaled Nezzar, who lifted the veil on his influential military-political career in 2000 (Nezza...
IT Professionals: To engage or not to engage? That is the question!

There is a paucity of literature on IT professionals that specifically emphasizes what influences employee engagement. Employee engagement is described as a positive, work-related state of mind exh...
Rapid screening for smokeless powders using DART-HRMS and thermal desorption DART-HRMS

Abstract Smokeless powders are a form of trace evidence that may be present at the scene of a shooting or explosive event, i.e. the explosion of an improvised explosive device (IED). Thermal desorption – direct analysis in real time – high resolution mass spectrometry (TD-DART-HRMS) is a novel technique in which an independent thermal desorption unit is coupled to a DART-HRMS. In this study, TD-DART-HRMS is compared with traditional DART-HRMS for smokeless powder analysis. Samples were extracted to minimize sample variability and allow for simple, direct comparison between techniques. Chemometric statistical approaches were applied for the comparison of TD-DART-HRMS and DART-HRMS. Sorensen correlation was applied for direct comparison of spectra, and positive ionization mode mass spectra were found to be more highly correlated than the negative ionization mode spectra, indicating greater similarity among DART-HRMS and TD-DART-HRMS spectra in the positive ionization mode. Hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) was utilized for the formation of groupings based on underlying features in the spectra, and classification modeling was performed using linear discriminant analysis (LDA) along with introducing an external test set to the LDA model. High potential for classification was observed in the LDA modeling with 20% withheld cross validation. External test set validation demonstrated that the TD-DART-HRMS model was a more robust model than the DART-HRMS model, with a higher classification accuracy observed. This study established the utility of TD-DART-HRMS for the analysis of smokeless powders, and demonstrated the complementary nature of TD-DART-HRMS associated with DART-HRMS.
An incremental quasi-Newton method with a local superlinear convergence rate

We present an incremental Broyden-Fletcher-Goldfarb-Shanno (BFGS) method as a quasi-Newton algorithm with a cyclically iterative update scheme for solving large-scale optimization problems. The proposed incremental quasi-Newton (IQN) algorithm reduces computational cost relative to traditional quasi-Newton methods by restricting the update to a single function per iteration and relative to incremental second-order methods by removing the need to compute the inverse of the Hessian. A local superlinear convergence rate is established and a strong improvement is shown over first order methods numerically for a set of common large-scale optimization problems.
Effects of Stereoscopic Viewing and Haptic Feedback, Sensory-Motor Congruence and Calibration on Near-Field Fine Motor Perception-Action Coordination in Virtual Reality

We present an empirical evaluation on how stereoscopic viewing and haptic feedback deferentially affects fine motor perception-action coordination in a pick-and-place task in Virtual Reality (VR). The factors considered were stereoscopic viewing, haptic feedback, sensory-motor congruence and mismatch, and calibration on perception-action coordination in near field fine motor task performance in VR. Quantitative measures of placement error, distance, collision, and time to complete trials were recorded and analyzed. Overall, we found that participants' manual dexterous task performance was enhanced in the presence of both stereoscopic viewing and haptic feedback. However, we found that time to complete task was greatly enhanced by the presence of haptic feedback, and economy and efficiency of movement of the end effector as well as the manipulated object was enhanced by the presence of both haptic feedback and stereoscopic viewing. Whereas, number of collisions and placement accuracy were greatly enhanced by the presence of stereoscopic viewing in near-field fine motor perception-action coordination. Our research additionally shows that mismatch in sensory-motor stimuli can detrimentally affect the number of collisions, and efficiency of end effector and object movements in near-field fine motor activities, and can be further negatively affected by the absence of haptic feedback and stereoscopic viewing. In spite of reduced cue situations in VR, and the absence or presence of stereoscopic viewing and haptic feedback, we found that participants tend to calibrate or adapt their perception-action coordination rapidly with a set of at least 5 trials.
Genetics of dilated cardiomyopathy: practical implications for heart failure management

Given the global burden of heart failure, strategies to understand the underlying cause or to provide prognostic information are critical to reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with this highly prevalent disease. Cardiomyopathies often have a genetic cause, and the field of heart failure genetics is progressing rapidly. Through a deliberate investigation, evaluation for a familial component of cardiomyopathy can lead to increased identification of pathogenic genetic variants. Much research has also been focused on identifying markers of risk in patients with cardiomyopathy with the use of genetic testing. Advances in our understanding of genetic variants have been slightly offset by an increased recognition of the heterogeneity of disease expression. Greater breadth of genetic testing can increase the likelihood of identifying a variant of uncertain significance, which is resolved only rarely by cellular functional validation and segregation analysis. To increase the use of genetics in heart failure clinics, increased availability of genetic counsellors and other providers with experience in genetics is necessary. Ultimately, through ongoing research and increased clinical experience in cardiomyopathy genetics, an improved understanding of the disease processes will facilitate better clinical decision-making about the therapies offered, exemplifying the implementation of precision medicine. In this Review, Rosenbaum and colleagues give a broad perspective on the genetic causes of dilated cardiomyopathy to provide a context for a discussion of the pragmatic use of genetic testing in heart failure clinics for patients presenting with new-onset dilated cardiomyopathy.
Historical markers in the western United States: regional and cultural contrasts

The American West evokes many images in the minds of both its citizens and visitors. Historical markers are one way that regional historical identity has been preserved and displayed over time. Tou...
A single-step third-order temporal discretization with Jacobian-free and Hessian-free formulations for finite difference methods

Abstract In this paper, we present an algorithmic extension of the method called the Picard Integration Formulation (PIF) that belongs to temporal updates based on the Lax-Wendroff procedure. The new extension is called the system-free (SF) approach, which furnishes ease of calculating the Jacobian and the Hessian terms necessary for third-order temporal accuracy in the original PIF method. In contrast to the analytical calculations of the Jacobian and the Hessian tensor terms in the original PIF method, our new SF approach utilizes finite difference approximations that replace the analytical calculations of the Jacobian and Hessian terms with Jacobian-free and Hessian-free approximations in a way commonly adopted in the context of iterative methods. The resulting SF approach enables our new PIF method to be a computationally efficient single-step, third-order accurate temporal scheme, whose computational performance is twice faster than the three-stage SSP-RK3 method with the same accuracy.
Analysis and Attenuation of Differential-Mode Resonances due to Winding Capacitances in High-Power Planar Transformers

This paper presents analysis and modeling of differential-mode (DM) resonances due to interactions between inductances and parasitic winding capacitances in high frequency planar transformers, which may result in undesirable current ringing. These DM phenomena are fundamentally different compared to well-recognized and better understood common-mode (CM) issues. A simplified half-circuit model is developed based on the classical six-capacitor network model, and an analytical expression is derived for evaluation of the worst-case differential-mode current ringing. A direct relationship is found between the electric field energy storage and the DM current ringing. The modeling insights lead to improved design approaches for planar transformer and tank inductor windings in transformer isolated converters. The results are verified by experiments on a SiC-based dual-active-bridge converter prototype operating at 9 kW and 210 kHz.
Strategies Targeting Hemagglutinin as a Universal Influenza Vaccine

Influenza virus has significant viral diversity, both through antigenic drift and shift, which makes development of a vaccine challenging. Current influenza vaccines are updated yearly to include strains predicted to circulate in the upcoming influenza season, however this can lead to a mismatch which reduces vaccine efficacy. Several strategies targeting the most abundant and immunogenic surface protein of influenza, the hemagglutinin (HA) protein, have been explored. These strategies include stalk-directed, consensus-based, and computationally derived HA immunogens. In this review, we explore vaccine strategies which utilize novel antigen design of the HA protein to improve cross-reactive immunity for development of a universal influenza vaccine.
Andreotti e l’Italia di confine. Lotta politica e nazionalizzazione delle masse (1947–1954), by Paolo Gheda and Federico Robbe, Milan, Edizioni Angelo Guerini e Associati, 2015, 279 pp., €24.50 (soft cover), ISBN: 9788862505857

Recent scholarship on post-war Italian history has both refocused attention on the role of individual personalities in shaping the early republic and sharpened our understanding of the centre-perip...
The roles of life stress and preventive health behaviors on parent mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted millions of lives, with life stress and daily hassles having a potential impact on parent mental health. This study examined whether preventive health behaviors (e.g. social distancing, mask wearing) and social support relate to parent mental health. In a cross-sectional analysis of parents (N = 176, May-September 2020), life events and daily hassles were positively associated with depressive and anxiety symptoms. Preventive health behaviors moderated the association between daily hassles and depressive symptoms. Preventive health behaviors may protect those with high levels of daily hassles from moderate levels of depression.