cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Variably inclined continuous transverse stub-2 antenna

The variably inclined continuous transverse stub (VICTS) technology, especially in its second-generation antenna shows exceptional promise as a low-cost, high-performance alternative to traditional phased arrays in advanced communications applications. VICTS technology was invented and developed by Raytheon (W. W. Milroy) as an outgrowth of work conducted on continuous transverse stub (CTS) radiators. In its basic form (VICTS-1), a series of long, wideband slots is excited by a parallel plate feed network. Elevation scanning is accomplished via the independent rotation (inclination) of the slots with respect to the feed, and azimuth scanning is accomplished by rotating the feed and radiation layers together in a /spl theta/-/spl Phi/ spherically scanned system. The VICTS-2 antenna is therefore a low profile, planar, electro-mechanically-scanned, broadband passive phased array whose simple design translates into low-cost production, high-reliability, and low-loss antennas. This paper describes the key antenna technologies that support the second generation VICTS-2 antenna (Thomas V. Sikina). The antenna's reliance on broadband antenna and component technologies in a true-time delay and polarization diverse system is largely unique.
Giving Students Real-World Experience via Virtual-Reality Learning: How one MBA school created an immersive online experience for aspiring business leaders

The iMBA program at the Lake Forest Graduate School of Management (LFGSM) allows students to participate in a virtual internship program within a simulated manufacturing company. iMBA lets students work in a virtual corporation with real products, customers, competitors, opportunities, and challenges. This immersion-based, virtual reality learning is considered stickier than passive sit back and observe style lectures as students are more emotionally engaged. Because academic learning and virtual internship occur simultaneously students are able to immediately apply the scholastic concepts, enabling them to more rapidly develop and practice critical business skills.
Coulomb excitation of 2/sup +/ and 3/sup -/ states in /sup 192/Pt and /sup 194/Pt

Coulomb excitation of /sup 192/ /sup 194/Pt, by 14.9 MeV ..cap alpha.. particles was studied by the magnetic analysis of the particles scattered into 150/sup 0/. For /sup 192/Pt, B (E2;0/sup +/ ..-->.. 2/sup +/) values to the 2/sup +/ states at 317 and 612 keV are 1.89 +- 0.03 e/sup 2/ b/sup 2/ and 0.013 +- 0.002 e/sup 2/ b/sup 2/, respectively. For /sup 194/Pt, the B (E2) up-arrow values to the 2/sup +/ states at 329 and 633 keV are 1.68 +- 0.03 e/sup 2/ b/sup 2/ and 0.0094 +- 0.0015 e/sup 2/ b/sup 2/, respectively. States with J/sup ..pi../- at 1378 keV in /sup 192/Pt and 1432 in /sup 194/Pt are also excited, with B (E3) up-arrow values of 0.17 +- 0.03 e/sup 2/ b/sup 3/ and 0.14 +- 0.03 e/sup 2/ b/sup 3/, respectively. We compare our measurements to others.
Characterization of Three Ocular Clinical Isolates of P. aeruginosa: Viability, Biofilm Formation, Adherence, Infectivity, and Effects of Glycyrrhizin

We selectively characterized three isolates from Pseudomonas aeruginosa keratitis patients and how glycyrrhizin (GLY) affected them. Type III toxins were determined using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of GLY and assays for its effects on: time kill, bacterial permeability, and biofilm/adhesion were done. In vivo, C57BL/6 (B6) mice were treated topically with GLY after G81007 infection. Clinical score, photography with a slit lamp and RT-PCR were used to assess treatment effects. Isolates expressed exoS and exoT, but not exoU. MIC for all isolates was 40 mg/mL GLY and bacteriostatic effects were seen for G81007 after treatment using time kill assays. From viability testing, GLY treatment significantly increased the number of permeabilized bacteria (live/dead assay). Isolates 070490 and G81007 formed more biofilms compared with R59733 and PAO1 (control). GLY-treated bacteria had diminished biofilm compared with controls for all isolates. GLY reduced adherence of the G81007 isolate to cultured cells and affected specific biofilm associated systems tested by reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR). In vivo, after G81007 infection, GLY treatment reduced clinical score and messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of IL-1β, TNF-α, CXCL2 and HMGB1. This study provides evidence that GLY is bacteriostatic for G81007. It also affects biofilm production, adherence to cultured cells, and an improved keratitis outcome.
A Data-Driven Study of DDoS Attacks and Their Dynamics

Despite continuous defense efforts, DDoS attacks are still very prevalent on the Internet. In such arms races, attackers are becoming more agile and their strategies are more sophisticated to escape from detection. Effective defenses demand in-depth understanding of such strategies. In this paper, we set to investigate the DDoS landscape from the perspective of the attackers. We focus on the dynamics of the attacking force, aiming to explore the strategies behind the scenes, if any. Our study is based on 50,704 different Internet DDoS attacks across the globe in a seven-month period. Our results indicate that attackers deliberately schedule their controlled bots in a dynamic fashion, and such dynamics can be well captured by statistical distributions. Furthermore, different botnet families exhibit similar scheduling patterns, strongly suggesting their close relationship and potential collaborations. Such collaborations are further confirmed by bots rotating in multiple families, and such rotation patterns are examined and confirmed at various levels. These findings lay a promising foundation for predicting DDoS attacks in the future and aid mitigation efforts.
Nuclear data uncertainty propagation for spectral reaction ratios

Abstract This paper describes several approaches to propagating nuclear data uncertainty in integral capture and fission reaction rates, focusing on the spectral hardness indices of 193Ir(n,n′)193mIr/191Ir(n,g)192Ir and 238U(n,f)/235U(n,f) in fast critical assemblies. Uncertainties in the nuclear data were propagated through the following methods: a sensitivity method (utilizing first order perturbation and covariance matrices), a BFMC method (random cross sections generated through covariance matrices), and Total Monte Carlo method (random cross sections generated from varying nuclear parameters). The uncertainty estimates from the three approaches are evaluated against the associated experimental uncertainties of a ZEUS/COMET critical assembly irradiation. The uncertainty estimates of the three approaches agree fairly well, and contribute a significant portion to the overall uncertainty of the spectral hardness indices.
Magnetic ionic liquids based on transition metal complexes with N-alkylimidazole ligands

In this study, magnetic ionic liquids (MILs) consisting of Ni(II), Co(II), and Mn(II) and paired with the bis[(trifluoromethyl)sulfonyl]imide [NTf2−] anion were synthesized from their water soluble chloride intermediates. The MILs feature low viscosity, high hydrophobicity, and hydrolytic stability making them attractive candidates for a number of highly interdisciplinary applications.
Speech-in-noise recognition examined in individuals with normal hearing sensitivity and tinnitus using behavioral and brain imaging methods

Although we know tinnitus can cause concentration problems, its contribution to communication difficulties has not been well-studied. In a series of experiments, we have investigated Speech-in-noise (SiN) performance, in those with tinnitus and normal hearing sensitivity using a variety of methods, including behavioral, otoacoustic emissions, structural MRI and in a proposed study, ERP/ EEG. We found that tinnitus patients with normal hearing sensitivity did not have a general speech-in-noise deficit (Tai and Husain, JARO, 2018). Instead, our findings indicated that the tinnitus group performed significantly worse only under the 5-dB signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) condition. Additionally, the SiN performance in tinnitus patients was found to be significantly correlated with the perceptual factors related to tinnitus, such as perceived loudness, and was worse in the left ear. We are currently investigating (1) how the left ear appears to be more affected in tinnitus by using structural MRI and (2) whether there is any correlation between tinnitus pitch and consonant recognition. For both the latter studies, we are also contrasting the normal hearing tinnitus group with a hearing loss tinnitus group and other control groups.
Upper Endoscopy up to 3 Years Prior to a Diagnosis of Gastric Cancer Is Associated With Lower Stage of Disease in a USA Multiethnic Urban Population, a Retrospective Study.

Objectives In the USA, certain races and ethnicities have a disproportionately higher gastric cancer burden. Selective screening might allow for earlier detection and curative resection. Among a USA-based multiracial and ethnic cohort diagnosed with non-cardia gastric cancer (NCGC), we aimed to identify factors associated with curable stage disease at diagnosis. Methods We retrospectively identified endoscopically diagnosed and histologically confirmed cases of NCGC at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. Demographic, clinical, endoscopic and histologic factors, as well as grade/stage of NCGC at diagnosis were documented. The primary outcome was the frequency of curable-stage NCGC (stage 0-1a) at diagnosis in patients with versus without an endoscopy negative for malignancy prior to their index exam diagnosing NCGC. Additional factors associated with curable-stage disease at diagnosis were determined. Results A total of 103 racially and ethnically diverse patients were included. Nearly 38% of NCGC were stage 0-Ia, 34% stage Ib-III, and 20.3% stage IV at diagnosis. A significantly higher frequency of NCGC was diagnosed in curable stages among patients who had undergone an endoscopy that was negative for malignancy prior to their index endoscopy that diagnosed NCGC, compared to patients without a negative endoscopy prior to their index exam (69.6% vs. 28.6%, p=0.003). A prior negative endoscopy was associated with 94.0% higher likelihood of diagnosing curable-stage NCGC (p=0.003). No other factors analyzed were associated with curable-stage NCGC at diagnosis. Conclusions Endoscopic screening and surveillance in select high-risk populations might increase diagnoses of curable-stage NCGC. These findings warrant confirmation in larger, prospective studies.
Calculating risk and payoff in planetary exploration and life detection missions

Abstract A framework for quantitative assessment of different mission architectures is described using historical data and formal (Bayesian) information value measures. The science value of the result is argued for binary questions (e.g. 'is there life on Europa?) to be proportional to the logarithm of the posterior likelihood ratio of the answers, and can be derived from estimates of the false positive rates of instrumentation and of the presence (PD) of biosignatures at a given site. The expectation payoff is the product of the sought result with Markovian success probabilities of the required steps of launch, landing, sample acquisition etc., and historical planetary mission data are reviewed to derive (sometimes dismaying) estimates of these probabilities, e.g. historical landing successes rates are of the order of 66% and when landing is successful, the conditional rates of individual sample acquisition/analysis/return have similar values. The history of seafloor exploration on Earth is used as an analog, and indicates that in the absence of close reconnaissance data, PD may have rather low values of the order of 1% or less. The data acquisition success framework is demonstrated on the value of single versus multiple landers, on the choice of flyby altitudes for multiple plume fly-through missions, and on the value of surface mobility, which for small values of PD multiplies the science return by the number of sites visited. Bayesian reasoning requires encapsulation of prior information: while such estimates (of biosignature presence, false alarm rates, etc.) are inevitably subjective, the decomposition of that information onto specific factors affords transparency into their contribution to the final result and provides a basis for rational mission evaluation.
Sex Moderates Amyloid and Apolipoprotein ε4 Effects on Default Mode Network Connectivity at Rest.

Women are more likely to have Alzheimer's disease (AD) and decline more rapidly once diagnosed despite greater verbal memory early in the disease compared to men-an advantage that has been termed "memory reserve." Resting state functional MRI (fMRI) investigations demonstrate interactions between sex and AD risk factors in default mode network (DMN) connectivity, a network of brain regions showing progressive dysfunction in AD. Separate work suggests connectivity of left prefrontal cortex (PFC) may correlate with more general cognitive reserve in healthy aging. It is unknown whether left prefrontal functional connectivity with anterior and posterior default mode network (aDMN, pDMN) might differ by sex in AD. This study employed group independent component analysis (ICA) to analyze resting state fMRI data from 158 participants from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) with baseline diagnoses of normal cognition or early mild cognitive impairment (eMCI). pDMN and aDMN were defined on a subject-specific basis; prefrontal areas were selected from the Brodmann atlas (BA 6, 44, 8, and 9). Moderation regression analyses examined whether sex and amyloid PET positivity (A+/-) moderated effects of apolipoprotein e4 (APOE e4) on connectivity between left PFC, aDMN, and pDMN; and between aDMN and pDMN. Significant analyses were followed up with partial correlations assessing relationship of connectivity to verbal memory on the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT), and with preliminary analyses within NC and eMCI groups separately. Results showed no sex moderation of effects of A+ and APOE e4 on left prefrontal/DMN connectivity in the full sample. However, sex significantly moderated impact of A+ and APOE e4 on connectivity between aDMN and pDMN (p < 0.01). Women with an APOE allele (e4+) and A+ showed greater aDMN/pDMN connectivity than their e4- counterparts. No significant results were observed in men. Subgroup analyses suggested the aDMN/pDMN finding was true for those with NC, not eMCI. Partial correlations controlling for age and education showed increased aDMN/pDMN connectivity related to better verbal learning in women (p < 0.01) and not men (p = 0.18). In women at risk for AD or in early symptomatic stages who also have evidence of amyloid burden, stronger aDMN/pDMN connectivity may support verbal learning.
The Crisis of Teaching Crisis Decision Making

Decision making under conditions of crisis is an integral part of international relations. Yet in most introductory IR texts, crisis decision making consists of Graham Allison's models, the Cuban missile crisis, and updated examples, discussed in five pages or less. In supplementing such texts, instructors of international politics at the introductory level may find themselves skirting Scylla and Charybdis. In the cliffs lies the extensive simulation exercise requiring additional readings and valuable class time to establish the game. Ahead, lies the whirlpool of detailed historical case studies all vying for attention as the necessary cases for relating to the student experience. Over the past few semesters, I have sought to resolve this dilemma with a simple simulation exercise that integrates current events with the basics of decision making under crisis. The demands on class time are minimal. The simulation adds anywhere from 30 minutes to one hour to the regular classroom time spent on discussing foreign policy decision making. Instructor preparation merely requires a scan of reference materials and some creativity. The results, in terms of student interaction, awakening the shy student, and promoting learning instead of regurgitation of simple facts have all been extremely positive for classes as small as 25 students and as large as 65 students.
Use of milk electrical conductivity for the differentiation of mastitis causing pathogens in Holstein cows

Abstract Mastitis is one of the most prevalent and costly diseases in dairy cattle. Key components for adequate mastitis control are the detection of early stages of infection, as well as the selection of appropriate management interventions and therapies based on the causal pathogens associated with the infection. The objective was to characterize the pattern of electrical conductivity (EC) in milk during intramammary infection, considering specific mastitis-causing pathogen groups involvement. Cows (n = 200) identified by an in-line mastitis detection system with a positive deviation ≥15% in the manufacturer’s proprietary algorithm for EC (high electrical conductivity (HEC)) were considered cases and enrolled in the study at the subsequent milking. One control (CON) cow, within normal ranges for EC, was matched to each case. A composite milk sample was collected aseptically from each cow for bacteriological culture. Milk yield (MY) and EC were recorded for each milking during ±7 days relative to enrollment. Milk cultures were categorized into gram positive (GP), gram negative (GN), other (OTH) and no growth (NOG). Data were submitted for repeated-measures analysis with EC as the dependent variable and EC status at day −1, bacteriological culture category, parity number, stage of lactation and days relative to sampling as main independent variables. Average (± standard error (SE)) EC was greater in HEC than in CON cows (12.5 ± 0.5 v. 10.8 ± 0.5 mS/cm) on the day of identification (day −1). Milk yield on day −1 was greater in CON than in HEC (37.6 ± 5.1 v. 33.5 ± 5.2 kg). For practical management purposes, average EC on day −1 was similar for the different bacteriological culture categories: 11.4 ± 0.6, 11.7 ± 0.5, 12.3 ± 0.8 and 11.7 ± 0.5 mS/cm in GN, GP, OTH and NOG, respectively. Parity number was only associated with day −1 EC in HEC group, with the greatest EC values in parity 3 (12.3 ± 0.3 mS/cm), followed by parity 2 (11.9 ± 0.2 mS/cm), parity >3 (11.6 ± 0.5 mS/cm) and primiparous cows (11.2 ± 0.2 mS/cm). An effect on EC for the interaction of day relative to identification by pathogen gram category was observed. The same interaction effect was observed on daily MY. Overall, the level of variation for MY and EC between- and within-cows was substantial, and as indicated by the model diagnostic procedures, the magnitude of the variance in the cows in the CON group resulted in deviations from normality in the residuals. We concluded that characteristic temporal patterns in EC and MY in particular pathogen groups may provide indications for differentiation of groups of mastitis-causing pathogens. Further research to build detection models including EC, MY and cow-level factors is required for accurate differentiation.
Ballast Resistor Temperature Effect and Ruggedness

The temperature and self-heating behavior of multiple ballast resistor devices structure was examined with the observation that a silicided polysilicon resistor sitting on top of thick oxide has greater self-heating characteristics with little heat dissipated into the substrate. Conversely the same device structure sitting on top of thin oxide has less self-heating and improved heat dissipation to the substrate. Furthermore, the orientation of the device contacts relative to current flow also impacted device nominal resistance and ruggedness.
Schools, sexual violence, and safety: Adolescent girls and writing resistance at an afterschool program in suburban Mumbai

Two and a half million adolescent girls have experienced some form of sexual violence in India; significantly, they make up a quarter of all rape cases, despite being a small percentage of the population (Raj and McDougal, 2014). Parents and girls’ fears about safety contributes to their high dropout rates within Indian education, but thus far there has been little research on this topic. Focusing on underprivileged adolescent girls at an afterschool site in Mumbai, India, this qualitative study investigates how within this landscape of sexual violence, writing serves as a medium to name, resist, and transform it. Specifically, we scrutinize the articulation of resistance which attempts to contest social norms, cultural conventions, and other forms of everyday hegemony. We examine data extracts from essays written by three adolescent girls participating in the afterschool program as part of a pilot study that took place in December 2016. The analysis of these extracts illuminates how the girls, through their writing, articulate their vulnerabilities about their own and others’ personal safety. Furthermore, it reveals how it is connected to their ability to access education. Moreover, it highlights the ways in which the girls resist parental and other socio-cultural pressures. Finally, the analysis sheds light on the complex and powerful ways in which the girls assert their independence, demand autonomy over their lives, and exercise agency. Ultimately, this investigation offers a path forward for Indian educators to reimagine girls’ education in light of girls’ safety issues, using writing as a space to articulate a literacy of resistance and hope.
A Survey of Speech-Language Pathologists' Understanding and Reported Use of Evidence-Based Practice

Purpose The purpose of this study was to assess speech-language pathologists' (SLPs) understanding and self-reported use of evidence-based practice (EBP). The study also investigated SLPs' opinions...
Dual-Income Couples’ Gender Role Attitudes, Paid Leave Use, and Second-Birth Intentions:

This study examined whether dual-income couples’ gender role attitudes are associated with their paid leave use and second-birth intentions. Forty employed wives who returned to the workplace after...
The VOAs generated by two Ising vectors e and f with 〈e,f〉=128, |τeτf| = 3 or 〈e,f〉=329

Abstract In this paper we study two VOAs: first we study the VOA generated by two Ising vectors whose inner product is 1 2 8 with | τ e τ f | = 3 , then we study the VOA generated by two Ising vectors whose inner product is 3 2 9 . We also determine they both have unique VOA structures.
Research on the Influence of Distributed Photovoltaic in the Radial Distribution with Multi-transformers Network

It has been changed obviously for the state of power flow, voltage and network loss of distributed network, with the large scale of distributed photovoltaic accessing. In this paper the calculation method of network loss with distributed photovoltaic has been introduced. By simulation with the radial distribution network, the influence has been illustrated on the condition of distributed photovoltaic capacity, grid-connected position or access mode. The conclusions are given. Firstly, the network loss ratio will decrease at first and then increase with output of distributed photovoltaic increasing, which is the V-shaped parabola with increasing slope. Secondly, it should be accessed between the head to the middle point of the line if the capacity of distributed photovoltaic is large. Thirdly, it is suggested chose decentralized accessing mode, while it is necessary to consider coordinated voltage control. And the resolutions of reducing network loss ratio are proposed as using marketing measures, selecting suitable grid-connected position, developing network reconstruction technology and operating voltage control.
The Association Between Area Deprivation Index and Patient-Reported Outcomes in Patients with Advanced Cancer

Background: This analysis describes associations between area deprivation and patient-reported outcomes among patients with advanced cancer. Methods: This is a cross-sectional analysis of baseline data from a multisite primary palliative care intervention trial. Participants were adult patients with advanced cancer. Patient-level area deprivation scores were calculated using the Area Deprivation Index (ADI). Quality of life and symptom burden were measured. Uni- and multivariate regressions estimated associations between area deprivation and outcomes of interest. Results: Among 672 patients, ∼0.5 (54%) were women and most (94%) were Caucasian. Mean age was 69.3±10.2 years. Lung (36%), breast (13%), and colon (10%) were the most common malignancies. Mean ADI was 64.0, scale of 1 (low)-100 (high). In unadjusted univariate analysis, Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Palliative (p=0.002), Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale (p=0.025) and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale anxiety (p=0.003) and depression (p=0.029) scores were significantly associated with residence in more deprived areas (p=0.003). In multivariate analysis, controlling for patient-level factors, living in more deprived areas was associated with more anxiety (p=0.019). Conclusion: Higher ADI was associated with higher levels of anxiety among patients with advanced cancer. Geographic information could assist clinicians with providing geographically influenced social support strategies.
Mosquitoes buzz and fruit flies don't-a comparative aeroacoustic analysis of wing-tone generation.

Crepuscular mosquitoes, which swarm in low light conditions, exhibit a range of adaptations including large aspect-ratio wings, high flapping frequencies and small stroke amplitudes that taken together, facilitate the generation of wing-tones that are well-suited for acoustic communication. In the current study, we employ computational aeroacoustic modeling to conduct a comparative study of wing-tone and flight efficiency in a mosquito (male Culex) and a similar sized flying insect: a fruit fly (Drosophila). Based on this analysis, we show that pound-for-pound, a mosquito generates wing-tones that are a factor of about 3.4 times more intense than a fruit fly, and the mosquito is more efficient by a factor of about 3.7 in converting mechanical power into acoustic power. The wing-tones for the mosquito are also more tilted in the forward direction, a characteristic that would be more conducive for acoustic signaling during a mate chase. The simulation data also shows that the specific power (mechanical power over mean lift) of the mosquito is nearly equal to that of the fruit fly, indicating that the adaptations that facilitate wing-tone based communication in mosquitoes, do not seem to compromise their flight efficiency.
Abstract LB252: Evaluation of the pan-class I phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor copanlisib in the Pediatric Preclinical Testing Consortium osteosarcoma in vivo models

Background. Copanlisib is a pan-class I phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor with activity against all four PI3K class I isoforms (PI3Kα, PI3Kβ, PI3Kγ, and PI3Kδ). Copanlisib was approved for use by the FDA in the treatment of refractory follicular lymphoma in 2017. Preclinical data have suggested that deregulation of the PI3K pathway is a key driver of multiple malignancies. The relevance of this pathway in osteosarcoma tumorigenesis remains a subject of debate, however, whole genome and RNA sequencing data have revealed several PI3K aberrations in osteosarcoma tumor samples. The in vivo effects of copanlisib were studied in the Pediatric Preclinical Testing Consortium osteosarcoma xenograft models. Methods. The in vivo anticancer effects of copanlisib were assessed in a panel of 6 osteosarcoma models (OS-2, OS-9, OS-31, OS-33, OS-36, and OS-60). Copanlisib was administered by oral gavage at a dose of 10 mg/kg/day, two days on and five days off, repeated weekly for 4 weeks. Time to event and tumor volume responses were defined and analyzed utilizing standard PPTC statistical methods. Results. Copanlisib was well tolerated in the models with minimal weight loss and no treatment related mortality as compared to controls. Copanlisib induced prolonged event-free survival (EFS) in 5/6 osteosarcoma models (p Citation Format: Douglas Harrison, Jonathan Gill, Pooja Hingorani, Michael Roth, Wendong Zhang, Beverly Teicher, Eric J. Earley, Stephen W. Erickson, Gregory Gatto, Raushan T. Kurmasheva, Peter J. Houghton, Malcolm A. Smith, Edward A. Kolb, Richard Gorlick. Evaluation of the pan-class I phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor copanlisib in the Pediatric Preclinical Testing Consortium osteosarcoma in vivo models [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2021; 2021 Apr 10-15 and May 17-21. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2021;81(13_Suppl):Abstract nr LB252.
RF Transmitter Localization Method Comparison using RSS Measurements from Drift Nodes

This paper investigates localization of an RF transmitter using received signal strength (RSS) at different drift nodes. Four methods are implemented and their performance is compared. The first method is Koo and Cha’s linear closed-form solution. The second is a modified version of Bancroft’s closed-form solution to the GPS equations. The third method relies on the Gauss-Newton (GN) algorithm. The final method is a Force-Field algorithm inspired by potential field navigation.
Towards Efficient and Data Agnostic Image Classification Training Pipeline for Embedded Systems.

Nowadays deep learning-based methods have achieved a remarkable progress at the image classification task among a wide range of commonly used datasets (ImageNet, CIFAR, SVHN, Caltech 101, SUN397, etc.). SOTA performance on each of the mentioned datasets is obtained by careful tuning of the model architecture and training tricks according to the properties of the target data. Although this approach allows setting academic records, it is unrealistic that an average data scientist would have enough resources to build a sophisticated training pipeline for every image classification task he meets in practice. This work is focusing on reviewing the latest augmentation and regularization methods for the image classification and exploring ways to automatically choose some of the most important hyperparameters: total number of epochs, initial learning rate value and it's schedule. Having a training procedure equipped with a lightweight modern CNN architecture (like bileNetV3 or EfficientNet), sufficient level of regularization and adaptive to data learning rate schedule, we can achieve a reasonable performance on a variety of downstream image classification tasks without manual tuning of parameters to each particular task. Resulting models are computationally efficient and can be deployed to CPU using the OpenVINO toolkit. Source code is available as a part of the OpenVINO Training Extensions (this https URL).
Microoptics Technology: Fabrication and Applications of Lens Arrays and Devices

Part 1 Optics and fabrication: refractive elements gradient index/grin diffractive element lenses. Part 2 Applications: erect one-to-one imaging two-dimensional arrays. Part 3 Other optical elements: gratings optical isolators photonic crystals.
Energy awareness for supercapacitors using Kalman filter state-of-charge tracking

Abstract Among energy buffering alternatives, supercapacitors can provide unmatched efficiency and durability. Additionally, the direct relation between a supercapacitor's terminal voltage and stored energy can improve energy awareness. However, a simple capacitive approximation cannot adequately represent the stored energy in a supercapacitor. It is shown that the three branch equivalent circuit model provides more accurate energy awareness. This equivalent circuit uses three capacitances and associated resistances to represent the supercapacitor's internal SOC (state-of-charge). However, the SOC cannot be determined from one observation of the terminal voltage, and must be tracked over time using inexact measurements. We present: 1) a Kalman filtering solution for tracking the SOC; 2) an on-line system identification procedure to efficiently estimate the equivalent circuit's parameters; and 3) experimental validation of both parameter estimation and SOC tracking for 5 F, 10 F, 50 F, and 350 F supercapacitors. Validation is done within the operating range of a solar powered application and the associated power variability due to energy harvesting. The proposed techniques are benchmarked against the simple capacitive model and prior parameter estimation techniques, and provide a 67% reduction in root-mean-square error for predicting usable buffered energy.
A Randomized Prospective Comparison of Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy and Nasogastric Tube Feeding After Acute Dysphagic Stroke B. NORTON, M. HOMER-WARD, M. T. DONNELLY, ET AL Br med J 312:13-16, 1996:

Methods: This randomized prospectively controlled trial compared outcome in dysphagic stroke patients based on route of feeding. Patients were recruited over 1 year from general medical and geriatric practices in Britain. Inclusion criteria required an acute cerebrovascular accident in a patient to have resulted in 8 or more days of dysphagia. Patients exclusion required a contraindication to gastrostomy because of gastrointestinal disease or endoscopy. Patients were entered over a 1-year period. Standard methods were used to place nasoenteric tubes or a gastrostomy by a pull through percutaneous technique. A protocol standardized feedings and patient positioning. Outcome measures included mortality at 6 weeks and success in delivering nutritional goals as set by a dietitian.Results: Thirty patients were recruited: percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) group (n = 16) and nasogastric tube (NG) group (n = 14). All patients were comatose at the time of referral. The mortality rate was high in the NG fed ...
A hybrid neural-Markov approach for learning to compose music by example

In this paper we introduce a hybrid approach to autonomous music composition by example. Our approach utilizes pattern recognition, Markov chains, and neural networks. We first extract patterns from existing musical training sequences, and then construct a Markov chain based on these patterns with each state corresponding to a pattern. We then use a neural network to learn which shifts of pitch and duration are allowed for each pattern in the training sequences. Using this hybrid model, we compose novel musical sequences.
Temperature and Substrate Dependence of Piezoelectric Sensitivity for PVDF Films

The piezoelectric sensitivity, via both the direct and converse effects, for commercial polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) films is measured as a function of temperature and frequency, for two substrates, nylon and aluminum. The average effective sensitivity for the PVDF on nylon was 29 pm/V for both direct and converse effect, independent of frequency over 0.5 to 200 Hz. Direct effect sensitivity on aluminum substrate was about a factor of five greater. Analysis of effects of substrate's thermal and elastic constraint disclosed insufficient effect to account for the observed increase of sensitivity. Flexoelectric effects were considered as the cause. The direct and converse sensitivity increased at approximately 2% per degree Celsius over the frequency range 0.5 to 200 Hz.
Bis(2-pyridyl­ethyl)­ammonium perchlorate

The title compound, C14H18N3+·ClO4−, a perchlorate salt of the monoprotonated form of bis(2-pyridyl­ethyl)­amine, has a structure in which one of the two H atoms on the amine N atom forms hydrogen bonds to the two pyridyl N atoms in a chelating fashion, while the second H atom on the amine is also used in hydrogen bonding to a perchlorate O atom.
Redox regulation of the DNA repair function of the human AP endonuclease Ape1/ref-1

The second enzyme in the DNA base excision repair (BER) pathway, apurinic/apyrimidinic (AP) endonuclease or Ape1, hydrolyzes the phosphodiester backbone immediately 5′ to an AP site generating a normal 3′-hydroxyl group and an abasic deoxyribose-5-phosphate, which is processed by subsequent enzymes of the BER pathway. AP sites are the most common form of DNA damage, and the persistence of AP sites in DNA results in a block to DNA replication, cytotoxic mutations, and genetic instability. Interestingly, Ape1/ref-1 is a multifunctional protein that not only is a DNA repair enzyme, but also functions as a redox factor maintaining transcription factors, such as Fos, Jun, nuclear factor-κB, PAX (paired box-containing family of genes), hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), HIF-1-like factor, and p53, in an active reduced state. Ape1/ref-1 has also been implicated in a number of other activities, one of which is the activation of bioreductive drugs requiring reduction for activity. In this report, we present dat...
Optical measurements of microwave grid oscillator power combiners

An electrooptic (EO) sampling technique is used to measure the potential distribution on a 5.8-GHz, 25-HEMT (high electron mobility transistor) grid oscillator power combiner built on a GaAs EO substrate. The grid oscillator is a 2D planar array of HEMT oscillators, backed by a metal mirror that provides feedback and unidirectional radiation. From the measured potential distribution, the current distribution along the radiating leads and bias lines is found. No edge effects were observed on a square grid that is smaller than a free-space wavelength on the side. It was found that each unit cell in the grid can operate independently and that the bias lines provide the boundary conditions necessary for oscillation. Knowing the exact current distribution is important for designing the output power of such quasi-optical combiners. >
The interaction of arousal and retention interval: Ipsative vs normative scoring

While the within-S, or ipsative, galvanic skin response (GSR) categorization has led to an arousal/retention-internal interaction with superior immediate recall of low-arousal items and reminiscence of high-arousal items, a different pattern of results has been reported using a normative GSR categorization. This mode of analysis, based on mean GSRs across all Ss, has yielded superior recall for high items across all time conditions. A reanalysis of three paired-associate studies, previously published using the ipsative procedure, shows the normative pattern for the two studies involving meaningful material, but not in the case of nonsense-syllable stimulus items. It is concluded that both normative and ipsative effects can account for a significant portion of the variance in a one-trial paired-associate paradigm usifig meaningful material. In contrast to the ipsative GSR, the normative GSR appears to be related to the way meaningful items are characteristically encoded.
Social Capital in Ethnic Communities and Mental Health: A Study of Older Korean Immigrants

This study examined how social capital in ethnic communities (e.g., social cohesion, community support, community participation, and negative interaction) influences depressive symptoms of older Korean immigrants. Using survey data from 209 participants in Central Texas (M age = 69.6, SD = 7.50), hierarchical regression models of depressive symptoms were examined with the following sets of predictors: (1) demographics, (2) physical health, (3) sociocultural factors, and (4) ethnic community factors. After controlling for the multiple sets of individual-level variables previously known to be important predictors of mental health, ethnic community factors made a substantial contribution. Higher levels of depressive symptoms were observed among individuals who received lower levels of community support (β = −0.14, p < 0.05), had limited participation in ethnic community events and activities (β = −0.15, p < 0.05), and reported more frequent negative interactions with ethnic community members (β = 0.12, p < 0.05). Findings highlight the importance of social capital in ethnic communities and hold implications for improving older ethnic immigrants’ mental well-being.
Stable isotope geochemistry

A review of oxygen isotope geochemistry is presented by Garlick [1969] in the Handbook of Geochemistry. Oxygen isotope geochemistry was also the subject of a chapter by Epstein and Taylor [1967] in Researches in Geochemistry. In Geochemistry of Hydrothermal Ore Deposits, a review chapter on the application of oxygen isotopes was written by Taylor [1967], and a chapter on sulfur isotopes was written by Jensen [1967].
Nuclear Data Sheets Update for A = 241

Abstract The available nuclear structure information for all nuclei with mass number A=241 is presented. Various decay and reaction data are evaluated and compared. Adopted data, levels, spin, parity and configuration assignments are given.
Mayo's Older Americans Normative Studies: Visual Form Discrimination and copy trial of the Rey–Osterrieth Complex Figure

Age-adjusted normative data are presented for persons age 70-89 years for the Visual Form Discrimination Test and Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure (copy trial only). Adjustment for the effect of education on test performance is also provided. These data were collected as part of Mayo's Older Americans Normative Studies (MOANS). The normative information provided here should prove useful for characterizing performance on these measures as well as comparing the person's performance against his or her functioning on any other test with MOANS norms. Limitations and unique features of the MOANS normative data are also discussed.
Introduction of James K. Mitchell, Recipient of the 2004 H. Bolton Seed Medal

The H. Bolton Seed Medal recognizes outstanding contributions to teaching, research, and/or practice in geotechnical engineering. The award was established in 1993 by the Geotechnical Engineering Division now the Geo-Institute of the Society in memory of Professor H. Bolton Seed, Hon.M.ASCE. The 2004 H. Bolton Seed Medal was awarded to Dr. James K. Mitchell, P.E., of Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. Dr. Mitchell is a University Distinguished Professor, Emeritus, at Virginia Tech. Dr. Mitchell was born in Manchester, New Hampshire, on April 19, 1930. He went on to receive his Bachelor’s of Civil Engineering degree at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 1951, his Master’s of Science degree at MIT in 1953, and his Ph.D. degree at MIT in 1956. He worked as a soils engineer for the Waterways Experiment Station in 1955 and then spent 1956–1958 as an officer in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. In 1958 he joined the faculty at the University of California at Berkeley, rising through the ranks to eventually become the Cahill Professor of Civil Engineering and finally Cahill Professor Emeritus in 1993. He then left Berkeley and joined the faculty at Virginia Tech in 1994. He retired from Virginia Tech in 1999 as University Distinguished Professor, Emeritus. Dr. Mitchell’s research activities have focused on experimental and analytical studies of soil properties and behavior, admixture stabilization of soils, soil improvement and ground reinforcement, in-situ measurement of soil properties, and mitigation of ground failure risk during earthquakes. He has supervised the Ph.D. dissertation research of 74 students, and has authored more than 350 publications, including the book Fundamentals of Soil Behavior, which has been published in its third edition. During the 1960s and early 1970s Dr. Mitchell served as the principal investigator for the Soil Mechanics Experiment that was
Synthesis of Some New Symmetrically Substituted 2,2′-Dipyridyl Disulfides

Abstract In connection with a mechanistic study of macrolide ring closure1,2 it was necessary to prepare a number of symmetrically substituted 2,2′-dipyridyl disulfides. Members of this class have found useful applications in analytical thiol determination,3 metal chelation studies,4 and tumor inhibition studies.5 In view of the potential usefulness of these compounds in these and other areas, their synthesis is described below. Most of the compounds described herein are new;6 two of them (III and IV) are known compounds prepared by a new route.
Prospects for the development of digital CMOL circuits

This is a preliminary analysis of prospects and options for the development of hybrid CMOS/ nanoelectronic intergrated circuits, in particular those of the “CMOL” variety. We believe that CMOL technology is the most natural (and possibly the only practicable) way to extend the Moore’s Law to the next 10 to 15 years, well beyond the 10-nm frontier.
Blue phosphors of dinuclear and mononuclear copper(I) and silver(I) complexes of 3,5-bis(trifluoromethyl)pyrazolate and the related bis(pyrazolyl)borate.

The synthesis, structure, and photoluminescence properties are described for the three-coordinate mononuclear and dinuclear complexes [H2B(3,5-(CF3)2Pz)2]M(2,4,6-collidine), M1, and {[3,5-(CF3)2Pz]M(2,4,6-collidine)}2, M2, respectively (M = Cu; Ag). The solids exhibit bright blue phosphorescence, at room temperature for the copper compounds and at 77 K for all compounds. Ag1, Cu1, and Cu2 exhibit blue pyrazole-based structured emissions with short phosphorescence lifetimes, 101−102 μs, due to an internal heavy-metal effect. Meanwhile, Ag2 exhibits curious multiple excitation-dependent emissions.
Antimicrobial Stewardship Pharmacist Interventions for Coagulase-Negative Staphylococci Positive Blood Cultures Using Rapid Polymerase Chain Reaction

BACKGROUND:No studies exist regarding the value of pharmacist interventions using rapid identification of coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) by rapid polymerase chain reaction (rPCR) from blood cultures.OBJECTIVE:To evaluate the impact of interventions by infectious diseases pharmacists (ID PharmDs) on blood cultures positive for CoNS using rPCR and assess the duration of antistaphylococcal antibiotic therapy, hospital length of stay (LOS), and related costs.METHODS:A quasi-experimental, pre- and postintervention study of patients with positive blood cultures for CoNS, identified using rPCR, was conducted. Patients were included if there was a blood culture for CoNS from January 1, 2011, to March 31, 2011 (preintervention), or October 1, 2011, to January 18, 2012 (post-intervention). Exclusion criteria included age younger than 18 years or 89 years or older, neutropenia, incomplete records, and duplicate or mixed blood cultures. The setting was a 1200-bed academic medical center. The ID PharmD interv...
The Use of Aligned Silver Nanorod Arrays Prepared by Oblique Angle Deposition as Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering Substrates

Aligned Ag nanorod arrays have been fabricated on glass substrates using an oblique angle vapor deposition (OAD) method. The surface morphology and structure of the Ag rods were studied by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction. Individual nanorods were found to be primarily cylindrical, albeit with irregularly shaped surface protrusions of the rods. The surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) response as a function of nanorod length was investigated using trans-1,2-bis(4-pyridyl)ethene as a probe molecule at an excitation wavelength of 785 nm. The enhancement factors reached a maximum of ∼5 × 108 as the nanorod length approached 868 nm and then decreased to ∼3 × 106 as the nanorod length increased further to 1900 nm. For the 868 nm nanorod array, signals collected over multiple spots within the same substrate resulted in a relative standard deviation (RSD) of 10%, while an RSD of 15% was measured in signals collected from different substrates. When stored i...
Aortic stenosis and myocardial infarction in hypercholesterolemic xanthomatosis

Abstract The case reported is that of a 17-year-old girl who died from extensive cardiovascular complications of familial hypercholesterolemic xanthomatosis. Coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, and aortic stenosis were found at autopsy, with characteristic abnormalities of xanthomatosis and atherosclerosis. The clinical history and laboratory and pathologic findings revealed no evidence that rheumatic fever had caused the aortic stenosis. Hypercholesterolemia without xanthomas was found in both parents. All 3 of their children had xanthomatosis, and 2 of them died suddenly.