cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An experimental study of a new entropy-based SAR autofocus technique

The stage by stage approaching (SSA) entropy minimization approach to synthetic aperture radar (SAR) autofocus is a modern and innovative technique, which, to date, has not been compared with other approaches. We provide such a comparison and show that SSA is a most promising autofocus method. We evaluate the merit of this algorithm through comparison with the established phase gradient autofocus (PGA) algorithm on both simulated and real SAR data. Our results show that SSA works well in comparison to the state-of-the-art PGA. However, SSA is more computationally demanding.
Mars after the viking missions: Is life still possible?

Abstract The results of the biology and organic chemistry experiments carried aboard the Viking landers seem to rule out the possibility of life on Mars. However, we present a possible model of Martian ecology which is based on the premise that Martian life could be endolithic, and thus missed by the Viking biology experiments. This model is based, in part, on the endolithic microbiota found in the dry valleys of Antarctica. In addition, we combine our model with a previously described model which suggests that Mars may go through ice ages and periods of relatively mild climate.
Desflurane versus sevoflurane for laparoscopic gastroplasty in morbidly obese patients.

Study Objective: To determine if desflurane results in a faster emergence as measured by time to eye opening compared to sevoflurane in morbidly obese patients undergoing laparoscopic gastroplasty. Study Design: Prospective, randomized, double-blinded study. Setting: Tertiary care hospital. Patients: 70 patients with a body mass index of 35 or higher undergoing laparoscopic gastroplasty. Interventions: Patients were randomized into two groups to receive either desflurane or sevoflurane for maintenance of general anesthesia. Measurements: Intraoperative measured variables included the time from when the inhalation agent was turned off (no agent delivered) to eye opening and the time from when the inhalation agent was turned off to extubation. Postanesthesia care unit (PACU)–measured variables on admission and at 15-minute intervals until discharge included oxygen saturation (Spo2), blood pressure, heart rate, pain and nausea Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores, emesis, modified Aldrete score, and Mini-Mental Status (MMS) examination score. Main Results: No differences were noted in demographic data, total surgical operative time, times from turning inhalation agent off to eye opening and extubation, or average length of stay in PACU. No differences were noted with respect to pain VAS, treatment for pain, modified Aldrete scores, emesis, or treatment for postoperative nausea or emesis. Differences were noted in PACU nausea VAS at 15 minutes, PACU nausea VAS at discharge, and PACU-MMS score at 45 minutes; however, multivariate analysis of variance revealed no differences between groups over the repeated PACU measured time periods in nausea VAS (P = 0.17) or in MMS (P = 0.34). Higher heart rates in the desflurane group were observed during PACU admission (82.3 F 9.8 vs 74.4 F 13.4 bpm, P b 0.01) and 15 minutes post PACU admission (79.4 F 12.1 vs 71.3 F 13.2 bpm, P = 0.01).
Improved efficiency of smooth and aligned single walled carbon nanotube/silicon hybrid solar cells

Smooth and aligned single walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) thin films with improved optoelectronic performance are fabricated using a superacid slide casting method. Deposition of as made SWNT thin film on silicon (Si) together with post treatments result in SWNT/Si hybrid solar cells with unprecedented high fill factor of 73.8%, low ideality factor of 1.08 as well as overall dry cell power conversion efficiency of 11.5%.
Universal Compression of Markov and Related Sources Over Arbitrary Alphabets

Recent work has considered encoding a string by separately conveying its symbols and its pattern-the order in which the symbols appear. It was shown that the patterns of independent and identically distributed (i.i.d.) strings can be losslessly compressed with diminishing per-symbol redundancy. In this correspondence, the pattern redundancy of distributions with memory is considered. Close lower and upper bounds are established on the pattern redundancy of strings generated by Hidden Markov models (HMMs) with a small number of states, showing in particular that their per-symbol pattern redundancy diminishes with increasing string length. The upper bounds are obtained by analyzing the growth rate of the number of multidimensional integer partitions, and the lower bounds, using Hayman's theorem
SIB-BLAST: a web server for improved delineation of true and false positives in PSI-BLAST searches.

A SIB-BLAST web server (http://sib-blast.osc.edu) has been established for investigators to use the SimpleIsBeautiful (SIB) algorithm for sequence-based homology detection. SIB was developed to overcome the model corruption frequently observed in the later iterations of PSI-BLAST searches. The algorithm compares resultant hits from the second iteration to the final iteration of a PSI-BLAST search, calculates the figure of merit for each ‘overlapped’ hit and re-ranks the hits according to their figure of merit. By validating hits generated from the last profile against hits from the first profile when the model is least corrupted, the true and false positives are better delineated, which in turn, improves the accuracy of iterative PSI-BLAST searches. Notably, this improvement to PSI-BLAST comes at minimal computational cost as SIB-BLAST utilizes existing results already produced in a PSI-BLAST search.
Development of Orally Active Oxytocin Antagonists: Studies on 1-(1-{4-[1-(2-Methyl-1-oxidopyridin-3-ylmethyl)piperidin-4-yloxy]-2- methoxybenzoyl}piperidin-4-yl)-1,4-dihydrobenz[d][1,3]oxazin-2-one (L-372,662) and Related Pyridines

The previously reported oxytocin antagonist L-371,257 (2) has been modified at its acetylpiperidine terminus to incorporate various pyridine N-oxide groups. This modification has led to the identification of compounds with improved pharmacokinetics and excellent oral bioavailability. The pyridine N-oxide series is exemplified by L-372,662 (30), which possessed good potency in vitro (Ki = 4.1 nM, cloned human oxytocin receptor) and in vivo (intravenous AD50 = 0.71 mg/kg in the rat), excellent oral bioavailability (90% in the rat, 96% in the dog), good aqueous solubility (>8.5 mg/mL at pH 5.2) which should facilitate formulation for iv administration, and excellent selectivity against the human arginine vasopressin receptors. Incorporation of a 5-fluoro substituent on the central benzoyl ring of this class of oxytocin antagonists enhanced in vitro and in vivo potency but was detrimental to the pharmacokinetic profiles of these compounds. Although lipophilic substitution around the pyridine ring of compound ...
The Emergence of Direction Selectivity in Cat Primary Visual Cortex

Publisher Summary The emergence of direction selectivity in layer 4 of cat primary visual cortex depends on a number of mechanisms, both thalamocortical and intracortical. Lagged and nonlagged lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN) cells provide the cortex with a range of timings, or response phases, that serve as initial substrates for producing response timing gradients across receptive fields. This is particularly important at low temporal frequencies. These gradients induce directional tuning. Gradients might be established by direct convergence of afferents with spatially and temporally offset receptive fields, by indirect convergence via other simple cells with certain spatiotemporal relationships to their targets, or, most likely, by both mechanisms. Inhibitory interactions among simple cells appear to contribute to direction selectivity (DS) mainly by creating or enhancing spatiotemporal (S–T) inseparable receptive-field structure. Recurrent excitatory interactions enhance DS by amplifying suprathreshold responses. DS among most layer 4 simple cells can be explained by linear/nonlinear (LN) models in which quasilinear summation of synaptic potentials across an S–T inseparable receptive field induces directional tuning that is then enhanced by relatively simple nonlinear processes associated with spike generation.
State Regulatory Responses To The Threat Of Global Warming

In this 1988 Presidential campaign, George Bush promised to counter the greenhouse effect with a “White House effect” initiated by his new Administration. Nothing discernable as such has emerged in the ensuing two years, however; those concerned about greenhouse gas emissions have had much greater success in eliciting a “Statehouse Effect”.
Nitric oxide and renal effects of volume expansion in conscious monkeys

Experiments were performed to determine the effects of nitric oxide (NO) synthase inhibition on the renal responses to volume expansion in conscious cynomolgus monkeys. All animals were volume expanded with 3% dextran in normal saline under three conditions: 1) during a control state, 2) during constant infusion of the NO synthase inhibitor N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME, 30 microg x kg(-1) x min(-1)), and 3) during simultaneous infusion of L-NAME and excess NO substrate L-arginine (0.6 mg x kg(-1) x min(-1)). The control volume expansion increased urine flow from 0.27 +/- 0.05 to 0.94 +/- 0.28 ml/min and sodium excretion from 21 +/- 9 to 95 +/- 26 microeq/min. During L-NAME infusion, these responses were attenuated in that urine flow only increased from 0.13 +/- 0.03 to 0.28 +/- 0.09 ml/min and sodium excretion from 13 +/- 8 to 35 +/- 23 microeq/min. Addition of L-arginine to the L-NAME infusion abolished these renal excretory effects of L-NAME alone. With combined L-NAME/L-arginine, volume expansion increased urine flow from 0.37 +/- 0.23 to 1.09 +/- 0.23 ml/min and sodium excretion from 38 +/- 27 to 150 +/- 24 microeq/min, responses similar to control. L-Arginine also markedly attenuated the effect of L-NAME to increase mean arterial pressure and abolished the L-NAME decreases in creatinine and p-aminohippurate clearances. However, an L-NAME-induced bradycardia could only be partially reversed. These results demonstrate that a functioning NO system may be important in mediating normal renal responses to volume expansion in this primate species.
The Protocols of the Elders of Zion: Group Defamation Trials in Civil Courts and the 'Court' of Public Opinion

This book chapter sketches out the three formal means in which responses to the Protocols of the Elders of Zion might have been made, and in which truth and falsity might have been weighed. It considers the benefits and risks of each, the cost of each, and then suggests a different way in fact in which it might actually have played out, that is, in which truth and falsity could be weighed. Two ways of responding involve actual litigation: individual libel and group libel. The third means of response is that of Congressional investigation. Finally, the chapter discusses trial in court of public opinion as another kind of quasi-judicial proceeding, specifically in the context of broad-based public debate.
GENETIC ANALYSIS OF THE STANFORD LRC FAMILY STUDY DATA II. STRUCTURED EXPLORATORY DATA ANALYSIS OF LIPIDS AND LIPOPROTEINS

A newly developed methodology for the assessment of mode of inheritance of continuously distributed traits in nuclear families, structured exploratory data analysis (SEDA), is applied to lipid and lipoprotein measurements. Specifically, three measures: the major gene index (MGI), the pairwise midparental correlation coefficient (MPCC), and the offspring between parents (OBP) curves are used to determine whether these trait expressions are more major gene, sporadic, or multifactorial relative to one another. Triglycerides and the closely-related VLDL-cholesterol measurement appears to be transmitted through some major components. HDL-cholesterol measurements are more consistent with some degree of multifactorial transmission or a major gene model with additive allelic effects and similar allele frequencies. The results for LDL-cholesterol suggest a modicum of major gene influences. The composite total cholesterol measurement appears to be under multifactorial transmission but of lower order than height. Younger families who were selected through a parent with high lipid levels exhibit some major gene influences which do not appear in the older families. Several possible explanations are proposed for this difference.
Laboratory Response of Susceptible House Flies to Thiourea as a Larvicide and Chemosterilant

Thiourea (thiocarbamide, NH2CSNH2) was shown to exert effective larvicidal activity against a laboratory colony of Musca domestica L. when it was incorporated into the rearing medium at a concentration of 500 ppm (wt/wt). The effect was shown to be greatest on young larvae, with tolerance increasing during the 2nd and 3rd instars. Eggs and pupae were unaffected by topical applications of thiourea; however, when it was force-fed to adult flies at a concentration of 500 ppm all eggs produced failed to hatch.
Comparison of telavancin and vancomycin lock solutions in eradication of biofilm-producing staphylococci and enterococci from central venous catheters.

Purpose Results of a study of the activity of antibiotic lock solutions of vancomycin and telavancin against biofilm-forming strains of Staphylococcus epidermidis, Enterococcus faecalis, a nd Staphylococcus aureus are reported. Methods An established in vitro central venous catheter model was used to evaluate lock solutions containing vancomycin (5 mg/mL) or telavancin (5 mg/mL), with and without preservative-containing heparin sodium (with 0.45% benzyl alcohol) 2500 units/mL, heparin, and 0.9% sodium chloride solution. Lock solutions were introduced after 24-hour bacterial growth in catheters incubated at 35 °C. After 72 hours of exposure to the lock solutions, catheters were drained, flushed, and cut into segments for quantification of colony-forming units. Results Against S. epidermidis , vancomycin and telavancin (with or without heparin) had similar activity. Against E. faecalis , vancomycin alone was more active than telavancin alone ( p < 0.01). Against S. aureus , vancomycin plus heparin had activity similar to that of vancomycin alone; both lock agents had greater activity than telavancin ( p < 0.02). The addition of heparin was associated with reduced activity of the vancomycin lock solution against S. epidermidis and E. faecalis ( p < 0.01). Telavancin activity was not significantly changed with the addition of heparin. Conclusion In a central venous catheter model, vancomycin and telavancin activity was similar in reducing biofilm-producing S. epidermidis . However, vancomycin was more active than telavancin against E. faecalis and S. aureus . None of the tested agents eradicated biofilm-forming strains. The addition of preservative-containing heparin sodium 2500 units/mL to vancomycin was associated with reduced activity against S. epidermidis and E. faecalis .
Mapping species distributions: Data for species distribution models: the biological data

Introduction – the species data model This chapter discusses the species (or biological) data used to develop distribution models – their spatial, temporal and measurement scales and characteristics. I will summarize what is known about the effect of the spatial and temporal sampling of species occurrence on SDM performance using information gained from a growing number of studies on the topic. This will help guide species distribution modelers to select or collect appropriate data for modeling, and to understand the limitations of the SDMs they produce given certain characteristics of the training data such as spatial or environmental bias or small sample size. Spatial prediction of species distributions: what is being predicted? If a model of a geographical distribution is conditioned on a continuous ecological variable, such as biomass, species richness, or species abundance (for example, Meentemeyer et al ., 2001; Cumming et al ., 2000b; Thogmartin et al ., 2004; Bellis et al ., 2008), then that “dependent variable” is the attribute being predicted. The resulting prediction is in units of grams per m 2 , species per km 2 or individuals per km 2 , for example. However, models conditioned on observations that a species was present in a location – it was growing someplace or sighted somewhere or recorded utilizing a habitat (foraging, nesting) – are different. Even when biological surveys record some measure of abundance, they may be simplified to presence versus absence for reasons discussed below.
BIOREACTORS FOR PRODUCTION OF HIV - A COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF FLASK, SUSPENSION, AND FIXED BED CULTURES

ABSTRACT In an attempt to establish a bioreactor system for generation of HIV that is practicable, efficient, biologically contained, and capable of scale up, the production of two strains of this virus was examined in suspension culture and the ‘Porosphere’ fixed bed system. HIV 1 and HIV 2 were grown successfully in both these types of reactor. The porosphere reactor theoretically appears to offer a better environment for HIV production, but evidence for significantly improved yields from this system, compared to suspension, was equivocal. However, this configuration facilitated media changes during culture. The data clearly showed that the culture system and cell environment significantly affected cell-virus interrelationships. switches between lytic - and persistent - type infections, and changes in the virus population were observed. Keywords: Cell-virus interaction, fixed bed bioreactors, HIV, suspension bioreactor.
Design of Division Circuits for Stochastic Computing

Stochastic computing (SC) encodes data in the signal probabilities associated with pseudo-random bit-streams. It enables very low-area and low-power arithmetic operations using standard VLSI circuits, it is also highly error-tolerant. While addition, subtraction and multiplication have extremely simple SC implementations, this is not true for division. Known stochastic dividers employ sequential logic circuits whose accuracy, convergence properties, etc., are unsatisfactory or not well under-stood. As a result, division is usually avoided or approximated in SC design. We first review and analyze in depth the existing design approaches to stochastic division. We then propose a novel division technique called CORDIV that exploits correlation between the input parameters. CORDIV not only has lower cost than previous stochastic dividers, but is also significantly more accurate. Area is reduced mainly because CORDIV requires less overhead for stochastic number conversion. We provide experimental data showing a typical 3x reduction in area and about a 10x improvement in accuracy.
Gendered knowledge and adaptive practices: Differentiation and change in Mwanga District, Tanzania

We examine the wider social knowledge domain that complements technical and environmental knowledge in enabling adaptive practices through two case studies in Tanzania. We are concerned with knowledge production that is shaped by gendered exclusion from the main thrusts of planned adaptation, in the practice of irrigation in a dryland village and the adoption of fast-maturing seed varieties in a highland village. The findings draw on data from a household survey, community workshops, and key informant interviews. The largest challenge to effective adaptation is a lack of access to the social networks and institutions that allocate resources needed for adaptation. Results demonstrate the social differentiation of local knowledge, and how it is entwined with adaptive practices that emerge in relation to gendered mechanisms of access. We conclude that community-based adaptation can learn from engaging the broader social knowledge base in evaluating priorities for coping with greater climate variability.
Promotion of PtIr and Pt catalytic activity towards ammonia electrooxidation through the modification of Zn

Abstract Zn is introduced into Pt and PtIr electrodes by applying potential cycles to their corresponding polycrystalline microdisc electrodes in a ZnCl2-containing ionic liquid bath. Scanning-electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis studies show that nanostructured PtIrZn and PtZn layers created on the microdisc electrodes contain approximately 5 wt% Zn. Cyclic voltammetric studies reveal that PtZn and PtIrZn are significantly more active towards electrochemical ammonia oxidation in alkaline media than virgin Pt and PtIr electrodes. The PtIrZn electrode demonstrates a low onset potential of 0.30 V vs RHE and a high exchange current density of 4.3 × 10− 8 A cm− 2, which is favorably comparable to state-of-the-art electrocatalyts for the same reaction. The catalytic activity promotion by the Zn modification may be related to the inhibition of the hydrogen electrochemistry. PtIrZn appears therefore to be a very promising anode catalyst for direct ammonia fuel cells and ammonia electrolysis.
Retrospective Reports of Childhood Misfortune Are Associated With Positive and Negative Affect in Adulthood.

Childhood misfortune refers to nonnormative experiences individuals encounter at younger ages that affect development across the life span. This study examined whether retrospectively reported childhood misfortune was associated with negative and positive affect in adulthood. In addition, we explored whether perceived control beliefs would moderate these associations. We used archival data from 6,067 adults ( Mage = 46.86; range = 20-75) from the Midlife Development in the United States study. Higher levels of misfortune were associated with higher levels of negative affect and lower levels of positive affect in adulthood. However, control beliefs moderated this association such that the combination of higher perceived control and misfortune resulted in less of a decrease in positive affect and less of an increase in negative affect. Overall, early life events were associated with later life emotional health, and control beliefs were an important psychological resource that buffered the negative effects of childhood misfortune.
Capturing the Benefits of a Variable Advisory Speed System in Portland, Oregon: Empirical Before and After Evaluation

The first variable advisory speed (VAS) system in Portland, Oregon, was recently installed on OR-217. This system, designed to be responsive to both congestion and weather, was installed to address issues along the corridor, including unreliable travel times, high crash rates, and substantial declines in performance during adverse weather. To assess the merits and effectiveness of the VAS system, a before and after analysis of corridor performance in terms of capacity, reliability, and safety is being conducted. This paper summarizes the findings of the before analysis and presents results from the after analysis during the first 9 months of operation. Before the system’s activation, OR-217 suffered from highly variable travel times, frequent severe bottlenecks, a high rate of rear-end collisions, and significant speed differentials between adjacent lanes. Though the system was activated in the summer of 2014 and the system’s long-term effects are not yet definitely established, some notable evidence of t...
Exceptional Evolutionary Expansion of Prefrontal Cortex in Great Apes and Humans

Summary One of the enduring questions that has driven neuroscientific enquiry in the last century has been the nature of differences in the prefrontal cortex of humans versus other animals [1]. The prefrontal cortex has drawn particular interest due to its role in a range of evolutionarily specialized cognitive capacities such as language [2], imagination [3], and complex decision making [4]. Both cytoarchitectonic [5] and comparative neuroimaging [6] studies have converged on the conclusion that the proportion of prefrontal cortex in the human brain is greatly increased relative to that of other primates. However, considering the tremendous overall expansion of the neocortex in human evolution, it has proven difficult to ascertain whether this extent of prefrontal enlargement follows general allometric growth patterns, or whether it is exceptional [1]. Species' adherence to a common allometric relationship suggests conservation through phenotypic integration, while species' deviations point toward the occurrence of shifts in genetic and/or developmental mechanisms. Here we investigate prefrontal cortex scaling across anthropoid primates and find that great ape and human prefrontal cortex expansion are non-allometrically derived features of cortical organization. This result aligns with evidence for a developmental heterochronic shift in human prefrontal growth [7, 8], suggesting an association between neurodevelopmental changes and cortical organization on a macroevolutionary scale. The evolutionary origin of non-allometric prefrontal enlargement is estimated to lie at the root of great apes (∼19–15 mya), indicating that selection for changes in executive cognitive functions characterized both great ape and human cortical organization.
Fungal Parasites of Dwarf Mistletoes

Studies on three fungal hyperparasites on Arceuthobium spp. are reported. Wallrothiella arceuthobii attacks only the spring-flowering Arceuthobia. Septogloeum gillii on A. campylopodum f. laricis a...
Transmission of Electrons Through a Disordered Array of Potentials

There is a close relationship between localized states and the transmission properties of solids.
Abstract WP316: Stroke Simulation Improves Resident Confidence in Acute Stroke/TIA Management

Objective/Background: The goal of this study was to determine if clinical simulation improved resident confidence in delivering acute stroke care including patient interaction in acute setting, rap...
What's Old is New Again: The Nineteenth Century Voter Registration Debates and Lessons About Voter Identification Disputes

There is a raging debate over the administration of elections, which is undoubtedly familiar to many. There has been a significant increase in a particular kind of election law pertaining to how states go about administering elections. These laws have largely been promulgated by Republicans and target election fraud — actual or perceived — in an attempt to restore some integrity to the electoral process. Democrats, for the most part, have opposed these laws and often critiqued them as a kind of voter suppression tactic, one that disproportionately burdens racial minorities, the poor, and those who have recently moved into a precinct. Over the years, these positions have hardened into fairly partisan and seemingly intractable positions. This story, of course, is also the story of the voter registration debates in late nineteenth century America. This Article sketches that history and offers some general reasons why voter registration laws moved from controversial to generally-accepted. It then offers some comparisons to current controversies over voter identification laws. It concludes with potential lessons for the future administration of such laws and possible means of resolving seemingly intractable disputes.
Homology between the α1 and α2 chains of collagen

Abstract A sequence of 30 amino acid residues in the α2 chain of rat skin collagen was compared by computer techniques to the sequence of nearly 600 residues in the α1 chain. One region was found with a high degree of similarity that was unlikely to have arisen by chance. It was the same distance from the NH 2 -terminus as the α2 sequence and the distribution of charged groups was nearly identical. We conclude that these regions of the α1 and α2 chains are homologous.
Applications Of Spectral Analysis To Simultaneous Equations Systems

Spectral and cross-spectral analysis, developed in some detail over the previous chapters, has potentially fruitful applications to econometrics as an adjunct to estimation. We shall not touch on this aspect here, but we shall develop its application to the analysis of the dynamic behavior of (linear) econometric models.
Intranasal challenge immunity of mice to antigenically homologous and heterologous strains of mouse hepatitis virus.

The mutable nature and antigenic diversity among strains of coronaviruses, such as those of MHV, suggest an effective survival strategy for eluding immune clearance from host populations. Antigenic differences between MHV strains are largely expressed on peplomeric(E2) glycoproteins. Host neutralizing and type-specific antibodies are directed against E2 antigens.4 Challenge resistance can be induced by vaccination of mice with inactivated whole virus or peplomers, but not with virus membrane(E1) or nucleoprotein(N) subcomponents.5 Challenge resistance can also be induced with antibody to epitopes of E2.3, 6
The Possibility of Infinitesimal Chances

Are chance zero events possible? David Lewis thought not. He and others have proposed replacing zero chances by nonzero but infinitesimal chances in order that such events might be constructed as possible. I examine the details of a number of models aiming to accomplish this and conclude that they don’t work, ending with a pessimistic assessment of the prospects for this program.
Safety control with preview automaton: poster abstract

In this work we consider control problems for discrete-time dynamical systems with safety constraints. As opposed to the existing work on similar problems, we assume that the system at run-time can preview some of the future uncontrolled inputs (e.g., disturbances). In order to develop a control synthesis technique that can leverage such preview information, we introduce a mathematical construct called Preview Automaton that incorporates system dynamics with the prior knowledge on the structure of the preview. We propose an algorithm to find the maximum controlled invariant set for the Preview Automaton. Although Preview Automaton can be equivalently represented by a Finite Transition System, for which existing control synthesis methods can be applied, we show that exploiting the structure of the Preview Automaton results in more efficient solution algorithms. These ideas are demonstrated with a lane-keeping problem, where we show that existence of the preview information allows the vehicle to safely navigate roads with larger curvature, whereas the problem becomes infeasible when no preview information is available.
Explaining divergence in the long-term effects of precolonial centralization on access to public infrastructure services in Nigeria

Abstract Although the literature has discussed the benefits of precolonial centralization for development in Africa, the findings and the mechanisms provided do not explain the heterogeneity in access to public services of formerly centralized regions. Using new survey data from Nigeria, a significant negative association between precolonial centralization and access to certain public services is observed. While the mechanisms driving these patterns are complex, I use historical evidence to suggest that the negative association may be partly driven by centralized regions whose leaders failed to comply with the autocratic federal regime, and whose jurisdictions may have been subsequently punished by underinvestment in these services, with impacts lasting until today. The results are robust to extensive controls and multiple empirical tests to differentiate among alternative explanations for the finding.
An Electronic Neuron with Input-Specific Spiking

Sensory information in the brain is encoded by intricate spiking patterns. Transient characteristics of individual action potentials may be used in neural encoding. Inspired by behaviors found in biological neurons, we have designed a neuromorphic circuit of a neuron that exhibits input-specific spiking. Our neuron circuit has multiple dendrites and uses properties of localized high-voltage-activated (HVA) Ca2+ channels to generate action potentials with distinct shapes depending on the location of stimulation received at input synapses. Through circuit simulations, we show that our neuron circuit can encode differences in spatial locations of input stimuli through precise characteristics of output spikes, and spike shapes are tunable. We then show that neuron circuits, in conjunction with astrocytes, can be used to replace damaged neurons processing sensory inputs with healthy neurons augmented to process their own sensory inputs as well as the inputs originally intended for the damaged neurons, using spiking shapes to signal input sources.
Raman spectroscopy coupled with ambient ionization mass spectrometry: A forensic laboratory investigation into rapid and simple dual instrumental analysis techniques

Abstract We present a laboratory experiment, developed around a pair of instrumental analysis techniques, Raman spectroscopy and ambient ionization mass spectrometry (MS), conducted by senior chemistry undergraduate students for bulk analysis of over-the-counter drugs using benchtop versions of the two instruments, as well as trace analysis of illicit drugs utilizing the corresponding portable instruments. The identification and confirmation of seized drugs is a routine operation in forensic laboratories that can be simplified using these two instrumental techniques in tandem. Bulk samples are readily analyzed using conventional Raman spectroscopy followed by paper cone spray ionization (PCSI) MS, while trace analysis is allowed by a simple single-substrate dual-analyzer method using surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) from paper followed by paper spray ionization (PSI) MS. The introduction of these novel strategies to the students exposed them to potential career paths in forensic science by means of a hands-on experience that provided fundamental knowledge about this set of analytical methods, including intercomparisons of their performance, as well as practical issues like costs, regulations and databases. The use of portable instrumentation represents an additional learning experience for the students, considering that it is cutting-edge technology that is just now being transferred from academic to industrial labs and that it allows a valuable discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of bringing the laboratory to the field.
Effects of high oil compositions and printing parameters on food paste properties and printability in a 3D printing food processing model

Abstract 3D printing of high-liquid-oil-content food pastes is challenging. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of oil content on the printability of a model food paste. High-oil-content (up to 37%) pastes were prepared with water, canola oil, corn starch, and whey protein isolate (WPI). Effects of paste composition, paste conditioning, printing speed, extruding rate, and printed shape on printability were investigated. Viscosity and loss tangent values indicated that all the pastes were pseudoplastic fluids and exhibited predominantly elastic properties. Viscosity, storage modulus (G′) and loss modulus (G′′) increased with the total mass of printed pastes. Excessive WPI impaired the printability and corn starch showed a more significant impact on the G′ and G′′ compared to WPI. Storage at 4 °C for 24 h improved the printability by increasing viscosity and G′. DSC results suggested that swelling and gelation affected the melting behavior of the printing pastes.
Impact of Social Desirability and Common Method Variance on Two Measures of Entitlement

Entitlement is the predisposition toward expecting or demanding more rewards than someone else regardless of one’s own contribution, effort, or performance. This study examines the impact of social...
Quatre approches de l’entreprise responsable

Cet article compare quatre manieres de penser l’entreprise responsable. Lorsque la fonction de l’entreprise fonde ses obligations morales, celles-ci se limitent aux obligations que lui impose sa fonction soit sans considerer sa capacite (fonctionnalisme strict), soit pour autant qu’elle soit compatible avec sa capacite effective (fonctionnalisme compatibiliste). Lorsque la capacite de l’entreprise fonde ses obligations morales, celles-ci se limitent aux obligations que lui impose son pouvoir, soit sans tenir compte de sa fonction (capacitarisme strict), soit pour autant qu’elle soit compatible avec sa fonction (capacitarisme compatibiliste). En raison de l’impossibilite d’aligner parfaitement les tâches morales sur les tâches sociales et de reduire toutes les obligations generales a des obligations specifiques, le capacitarisme est preferable au fonctionnalisme. En prenant au serieux la division du travail (moral), le capacitarisme compatibiliste se montre plus robuste que le capacitarisme strict.
Characteristics and Outcomes of Individuals With Pre-existing Kidney Disease and COVID-19 Admitted to Intensive Care Units in the United States.

Rationale & objective Underlying kidney disease is an emerging risk factor for more severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) illness. We examined the clinical courses of critically ill COVID-19 patients with and without pre-existing chronic kidney disease (CKD) and investigated the association between the degree of underlying kidney disease and in-hospital outcomes. Study design Retrospective cohort study. Settings & participants 4,264 critically ill patients with COVID-19 (143 patients with pre-existing kidney failure receiving maintenance dialysis; 521 patients with pre-existing non-dialysis-dependent CKD; and 3,600 patients without pre-existing CKD) admitted to intensive care units (ICUs) at 68 hospitals across the United States. Predictor(s) Presence (vs absence) of pre-existing kidney disease. Outcome(s) In-hospital mortality (primary); respiratory failure, shock, ventricular arrhythmia/cardiac arrest, thromboembolic events, major bleeds, and acute liver injury (secondary). Analytical approach We used standardized differences to compare patient characteristics (values>0.10 indicate a meaningful difference between groups) and multivariable-adjusted Fine and Gray survival models to examine outcome associations. Results Dialysis patients had a shorter time from symptom onset to ICU admission compared to other groups (median of 4 [IQR, 2-9] days for maintenance dialysis patients; 7 [IQR, 3-10] days for non-dialysis-dependent CKD patients; and 7 [IQR, 4-10] days for patients without pre-existing CKD). More dialysis patients (25%) reported altered mental status than those with non-dialysis-dependent CKD (20%; standardized difference=0.12) and those without pre-existing CKD (12%; standardized difference=0.36). Half of dialysis and non-dialysis-dependent CKD patients died within 28 days of ICU admission versus 35% of patients without pre-existing CKD. Compared to patients without pre-existing CKD, dialysis patients had higher risk for 28-day in-hospital death (adjusted HR, 1.41 [95% CI, 1.09-1.81]), while patients with non-dialysis-dependent CKD had an intermediate risk (adjusted HR, 1.25 [95% CI, 1.08-1.44]). Limitations Potential residual confounding. Conclusions Findings highlight the high mortality of individuals with underlying kidney disease and severe COVID-19, underscoring the importance of identifying safe and effective COVID-19 therapies in this vulnerable population.
Expanding Access to MIDFIELD: Strategies for Sharing Data Infrastructure for Research

This work-in-progress presents an overview of current research with the Multiple-Institution Database for Investigating Longitudinal Development (MIDFIELD) and strategies for inviting and supporting other researchers to use this database in their own research. MIDFIELD is a resource for the study of students that includes longitudinal, de-identified, whole population data for multiple institutions. This enables researchers to examine student characteristics (such as race/ethnicity, sex, socioeconomic indicators) and curricular pathways (including coursework) by institution and over time. Because the dataset contains records of all students matriculating over a period of time, researchers can study students across all disciplines, not just engineering.The MIDFIELD team aims to educate the broader research community, expand the network of researchers capable of conducting this research, and share innovative research methods in addition to the actual data. We have offered workshops at several conferences as well as the MIDFIELD Institute. The inaugural MIDFIELD Institute brought together researchers from across the USA for two days in 2019. In an evaluation at the end of the Institute, participants were pleased with the Institute and rated it highly. There was high agreement about the value of the content and delivery. Most participants reported that the instituted lived up to their expectations and was a good way to learn about how to use MIDFIELD data. Areas of improvement suggested by participants included making it longer and more challenging. Several of the MIDFIELD Institute attendees are presenting works-in-progress together at FIE 2020 to provide attendees with a range of examples of research that is possible with MIDFIELD.
Script N = 1* in 5 dimensions: Dijkgraaf-Vafa meets Polchinski-Strassler

One of the powerful techniques to analyze the 5 dimensional Super Yang Mills theory with a massive hypermultiplet ( = 1*) is provided by the AdS/CFT correspondence. It predicts that, for certain special values of the hypermultiplet mass, this theory develops nonperturbative branches of the moduli space as well as new light degrees of freedom. We use the higher dimensional generalization of the matrix model/gauge theory correspondence and recover all the prediction of the supergravity analysis. We construct the map between the four dimensional holomorphic superpotential and the five dimensional action and explicitly show that the superpotential is flat along the nonperturbative branches. This is the first instance in which the Dijkgraaf-Vafa method is used to analyze intrinsically higher dimensional phenomena.
Effects of perturbed depth sensors in autonomous ground vehicles

Cybersecurity of autonomous vehicles is a pertinent concern both for defense and also civilian systems. From self-driving cars to autonomous Navy vessels, malfunctions can have devastating consequences, including losses of life and infrastructure. Autonomous ground vehicles use a variety of sensors to image their environment: passive sensors such as RGB(-D) and thermal cameras, and active sensors such as LIDAR, radar, and sonar. These sensors are either used alone or fused to accomplish the basic mobile autonomy tasks: obstacle avoidance, localization, mapping, and, subsequently, path-planning. In this paper, we will provide a qualitative and quantitative analysis of the effect of perturbed sensing capability of depth sensing, focusing on LIDAR, and the subsequent effects on navigation and path planning in the presence of obstacles. Aspects that will be investigated include complexity of the perturbation and effect on the autonomous operations. This work will lay a foundation for developing robust autonomy algorithms that are secure against possible degraded or inoperable sensors.
Nuclear depletion of RNA binding protein ELAVL3 (HuC) in sporadic and familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a progressive fatal neurodegenerative disease caused by loss of motor neurons and characterized neuropathologically in almost all cases by nuclear depletion and cytoplasmic aggregation of TDP-43, a nuclear RNA binding protein (RBP). We identified ELAVL3 as one of the most downregulated genes in our transcriptome profiles of laser captured microdissection of motor neurons from sporadic ALS nervous systems and the top dysregulated RBPs. Neuropathological characterizations showed ELAVL3 nuclear depletion in a great percentage of remnant motor neurons, sometimes accompanied by cytoplasmic accumulations. These abnormalities were common in sporadic cases with and without intermediate expansions in ATXN2 and familial cases carrying mutations in C9orf72 and SOD1. Depletion of ELAVL3 occurred at both the RNA and protein levels and a short protein isoform was identified but it is not related to a TDP-43-dependent cryptic exon in intron 3. Strikingly, ELAVL3 abnormalities were more frequent than TDP-43 abnormalities and occurred in motor neurons still with normal nuclear TDP-43 present, but all neurons with abnormal TDP-43 also had abnormal ELAVL3. In a neuron-like cell culture model using SH-SY5Y cells, ELAVL3 mislocalization occurred weeks before TDP-43 abnormalities were seen. We interrogated genetic databases but did not identify association of ELAVL3 genetic structure associated with ALS. Taken together, these findings suggest that ELAVL3 is an important RBP in ALS pathogenesis acquired early and the neuropathological data suggest it is involved by loss of function rather than cytoplasmic toxicity.
Implementation of a Population-Based Virtual Medical Home Decreases Inpatient Length of Stay for an International Population at a Large Children’s Hospital

Purpose: The International Patient Program at Boston Children’s Hospital sees a large volume of pediatric patients traveling to Boston from outside of the United States. Among the numerous challenges that are associated with being medically complex pediatric patients away from their home country, these medical travelers are defined by having complex care coordination needs and are without a local medical home resulting in prolonged inpatient lengths of stay when hospitalized. We implemented a nurse practitioner-led, virtual medical home to lead care coordination efforts to …
Dynamic Simulations of Realistic Upper-Ocean Flow Processes to Support Measurement and Data Analysis

Abstract : The scientific and technical objectives of our research in this project include: * Directly capture the generation and evolution of Langmuir cells in simulations; quantify the statistics of Langmuir turbulence. * Investigate the onset of wave breaking; quantify wave breaking intensity and model the resultant injection of turbulence to upper-ocean; study wave breaking effect on Langmuir cells. * Develop physics based wind force modeling for oceanic flows; investigate the impact of spatial and temporal variations of wind-forcing on waves, currents, and Langmuir cells. * Investigate effects of surface waves on upper OBL and mixed layer; identify and quantify the key turbulence mixing and transport processes in the flow, and model their dependence on environmental conditions.
Theories of Consciousness as Reflexivity

Consciousness is best understood in context, as one element of an interactive waking state in which the greater part of cognitive processing takes place in a nonconscious fashion. But if conscious and nonconscious processing are combined in the waking state, what distinguishes the former form the latter, what is consciousness, and what is its purpose? The answer to the second question depends crucially on our conclusion regarding the first. What is the property in virtue of which a state is conscious rather than nonconscious? In the following, it will be argued that of the answers most frequently proposed—intentionality, subjectivity, accessibility, reflexivity—only the final characteristic, reflexive, autonoetic awareness, is unique to the conscious state. Reflexivity can best be explained not as the product of a self-representational data structure, but as the expression of a recursive processing regime, in which cognition registers the properties of the processing state to a greater extent than properties of the content represented. And the principal characteristic of a reflexive processing state is cognitive reflexivity or autonoetic awareness
Toward a Third Culture: Being In Between

Artists working with technology are frequently informed and inspired by exciting scientific innovations, and often turn to contemporary philosophical interpretations of these events, which positions them in between the “two cultures,” a position that creates the potential for a “Third Culture,” as predicted by C.P. Snow himself. This emerging culture is not composed of the scientific elite as some propose, but will emerge out of triangulation of the arts, sciences and humanities. Although media artists are posed to play an important role in bridging the cultural and language gaps, this essay warns against adopting humanist interpretations of scientific work or taking for granted scientific assertions without active dialogue with both.