cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The functional and histological effects of clenbuterol on the canine skeletal muscle ventricle1

Background We investigated the anabolic effects of the sympatho-mimetic drug clenbuterol upon pumping chambers constructed from latissimus dorsi muscle (LDM). Methods and results In control and treatment groups (n = 4 dogs each), skeletal muscle ventricles (SMVs) were constructed followed by a 3-week recuperative delay and 6–7 weeks of electrical conditioning at 2 Hz to induce phenotypic expression of fatigue resistant slow muscle fibers. The treatment group received oral administration of clenbuterol (8 μg/kg, 2x/day) during this period. The clenbuterol group increased significantly in body weight as compared with the control group (P Conclusions At the dose given, clenbuterol does induce hypertrophy and preserves the normal percentages of fiber types, possibly by hyperplasia, but it does not affect chronic pumping performance of skeletal muscle ventricles in the canine model.
Abstract of Report of the Panel on High Magnetic Field Research and Facilities

The Panel, under the chairmanship of S. P. Keller, was created by the Solid State Sciences Committee, National Research Council, at the request of and with the support of the National Science Foundation. The Panel consisted of four subpanels: Scientific Opportunities, Raymond L. Orbach, chairman; Applications, John K. Hulm, chairman; Magnet Design and Materials, Bruce Montgomery, chairman; and High Magnetic Field Facilities and Users, Bruce D. McCombe, chairman.
Comparison of the Effects of the US Clean Air Act and of Smoking Prevention and Cessation Efforts on the Risk of Acute Myelogenous Leukemia

Objectives. We used 2 approaches based on published information to compare the impacts on leukemia incidence and benzene exposure of the 1990 US Clean Air Act (CAA) amendments and smoking prevention and cessation efforts.Methods. We extrapolated leukemia mortality related to community air pollution levels and to cigarette smoking from data from the US Environmental Protection Agency and the US Surgeon General. We also estimated relative decline in total exposures to benzene (a known human leukemogen) owing to the CAA amendments and to smoking prevention and cessation efforts.Results. We estimated that because of the CAA, there will be approximately 300 fewer leukemia deaths in the United States during the period 2000 through 2020. During the closest comparable period (1987–2007), we estimated that decline in cigarette smoking led to 7120 fewer leukemia deaths, of which 1282 to 3702 were attributable to benzene. Similarly, the decline in smoking led to about a tenfold greater decrease in total-population b...
Commentary on Coefficient Alpha: A Cautionary Tale

The general use of coefficient alpha to assess reliability should be discouraged on a number of grounds. The assumptions underlying coefficient alpha are unlikely to hold in practice, and violation of these assumptions can result in nontrivial negative or positive bias. Structural equation modeling was discussed as an informative process both to assess the assumptions underlying coefficient alpha and to estimate reliability
A general framework for the assessment of solar fuel technologies

The conversion of carbon dioxide and water into fuels in a solar refinery presents a potential solution for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, while providing a sustainable source of fuels and chemicals. Towards realizing such a solar refinery, there are many technological advances that must be met in terms of capturing and sourcing the feedstocks (namely CO2, H2O, and solar energy) and in catalytically converting CO2 and H2O. In the first part of this paper, we review the state-of-the-art in solar energy collection and conversion to solar utilities (heat, electricity, and as a photon source for photo-chemical reactions), CO2 capture and separation technology, and non-biological methods for converting CO2 and H2O to fuels. The two principal methods for CO2 conversion include (1) catalytic conversion using solar-derived hydrogen and (2) direct reduction of CO2 using H2O and solar energy. Both hydrogen production and direct CO2 reduction can be performed electro-catalytically, photo-electrochemically, photo-catalytically, and thermochemically. All four of these methods are discussed. In the second part of this paper, we utilize process modeling to assess the energy efficiency and economic feasibility of a generic solar refinery. The analysis demonstrates that the realization of a solar refinery is contingent upon significant technological improvements in all areas described above (solar energy capture and conversion, CO2 capture, and catalytic conversion processes).
The Clock in the Brain: Neurons, Glia, and Networks in Daily Rhythms

The master coordinator of daily schedules in mammals, located in the ventral hypothalamus, is the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). This relatively small population of neurons and glia generates circadian rhythms in physiology and behavior and synchronizes them to local time. Recent advances have begun to define the roles of specific cells and signals (e.g., peptides, amino acids, and purine derivatives) within this network that generate and synchronize daily rhythms. Here we focus on the best-studied signals between neurons and between glia in the mammalian circadian system with an emphasis on time-of-day pharmacology. Where possible, we highlight how commonly used drugs affect the circadian system.
Insight into the modulation of Shaw2 Kv channels by general anesthetics: structural and functional studies of S4-S5 linker and S6 C-terminal peptides in micelles by NMR.

Abstract The modulation of the Drosophila Shaw2 Kv channel by 1-alkanols and inhaled anesthetics is correlated with the involvement of the S4–S5 linker and C-terminus of S6, and consistent with stabilization of the channel's closed state. Structural analysis of peptides from S4–S5 (L45) and S6 (S6c), by nuclear magnetic resonance and circular dichroism spectroscopy supports that an α-helical conformation was adopted by L45, while S6c was only in an unstable/dynamic partially folded α-helix in dodecylphosphocholine micelles. Solvent accessibility and paramagnetic probing of L45 revealed that L45 lies parallel to the surface of micelles with charged and polar residues pointing towards the solution while hydrophobic residues are buried inside the micelles. Chemical shift perturbation introduced by 1-butanol on residues Gln320, Thr321, Phe322 and Arg323 of L45, as well as Thr423 and Gln424 of S6c indicates possible anesthetic binding sites on these two important components in the channel activation apparatus. Diffusion measurements confirmed the association of L45, S6c and 1-butanol with micelles which suggests the capability of 1-butanol to influence a possible interaction of L45 and S6c in the micelle environment.
Underwriting Area-based Yield Insurance to Crowd-in Credit Supply and Demand

Recent theoretical and empirical evidence suggests that risk (especially covariant risk that is correlated across producers) may discourage both the supply of agricultural credit and the willingness of small holders to utilize available credit and enjoy the higher expected incomes credit could make available to them. One possible resolution to this problem is to remove risk from the system by independently insuring it. However, conventional (all hazard) crop insurance has in almost every instance been rendered financially unsustainable by moral hazard and adverse selection problems. This paper instead analyzes two index-based insurance schemes, one based on a weather index, and a second based on measured average yields. While these index insurance products do not protect the farmer from all risks, our econometric analysis (which is based on data from the north coast of Peru) shows that they could have substantial value to the producer and could also crowd-in credit supply from lenders reluctant to carry too much covariant risk in their loan portfolios. We also show that insurance based on measured yields is markedly superior to a weather index (for both borrowers and lenders). We close by arguing that present and past public good failures justify public intervention in this area, and analyze the feasibility of a public scheme to initially underwrite the costs and uncertainties associated with area-based yield insurance.
Uniquely Conformed Peptide-Containing β2-Microglobulin- Free Heavy Chains of HLA-B2705 on the Cell Surface

The human class I MHC molecules are known to generally exist on the cell surface either as peptide-containing complexes of H chain (α-chain) and β 2 -microglobulin (β 2 m) or as β 2 m-free H chains incapable of binding peptides. In this study, a uniquely conformed peptide-containing β 2 m-free HLA-B2705 H chain has been isolated using the recently described highly efficient perfusion-affinity chromatography system for purification of class I MHC protein molecules. This form recognized by the mAb MARB4 is very closely associated with the remainder of the peptide containing HLA-B2705/β 2 m complex reactive with mAb ME1 and is present to ∼1–10% of mAb ME1 reactive forms on the cell surface. Also, HLA-B2705 purified using the mAb ME1 affinity column includes this unique mAb MARB4-reactive, unusually stable peptide-containing β 2 m-free form. A peptide nonamer GRWRGWYTY was isolated and identified from this β 2 m-free HLA-B2705 H chain and was used to assemble the mAb MARB4 reactive form efficiently on the surface of cells expressing HLA-B2705. The discovery of this form opens new avenues for further investigation of the role of HLA-B27 in spondyloarthropathies.
Implementation of the single cycle detector using the signal processing workstation

Detection of unknown signals is often accomplished using energy detection devices, such as the wideband, or total power, radiometer. While this is an effective approach for stationary signals and background noise, much attention has lately focused on the use of other detection methods, such as time-frequency analysis and spectral correlation. This paper investigates the simulation of a single cycle detector, which provides some immunity to the effects of interference and non-stationary noise backgrounds, through the exploitation of the cyclostationary properties of most communications signals. Comparisons of the single cycle detector and the radiometer are made through the use of receiver operating characteristics curves, obtained through simulations using COMDISCO's signal processing workstation (SPW). >
Mechatronic kite and camera rig to rapidly acquire, Process, and distribute aerial images

Aerial images are challenging to acquire in times of a disaster. Conventional aircraft may not be able to takeoff and land due to crippled runways and airstrips. Time is often critical and delays incurred from scheduling a satellite fly-by may frustrate mitigation efforts. A system that can be easily transported to the disaster site and rapidly deployed would be an attractive alternative to aircraft and satellites. This paper integrates mechatronics, intelligent sensing, and mechanism synthesis in a teleoperable kite-mounted camera. Such a system is rapidly deployable, easy to fly, affordable, and can fit in a backpack to quickly acquire, process, and distribute aerial images. Image mosaicing, edge detection, three-dimensional reconstruction, and geo-referencing resulting from images acquired by our aerial platform are also presented.
Comments on hybrid-polarity SAR architecture

Recent work on compact polarimetry is reviewed in the context of the fifty-year history of polarimetric diversity. One promising form of this genre is hybrid-polarity (CL-pol), in which a synthetic aperture radar (SAR) transmits circular polarization and receives on two orthogonal mutually-coherent linear polarizations. The CL-pol technique is compared and contrasted to alternative compact polarimetric schemes. Useful characteristics that are unique to the hybrid-polarity architecture are described, especially rotational invariance and polarimetric calibration.
Blowups of complex-valued solutions for some hydrodynamic models

We study complex-valued blowups of solutions for several hydrodynamic models. For complex-valued initial conditions, smooth local solutions can have finite-time singularities since the energy inequality does not hold. By using some version of the renormalization group method, we derive the equations for corresponding fixed points and analyze the spectrum of the linearized operator. We describe the open set of initial conditions for which blowups at finite time can occur.
Mitigation Targets and Effort-Sharing Among Regions and Countries

Our society has multiple objectives, and climate mitigation is not our only aim. It is important to balance such multiple objectives, which include climate change mitigation measures. Desirable long-term emission targets cannot be determined without value judgments. However, atmospheric CO2 concentration stabilization at 550 ppm CO2 or 550 ppm CO2-eq is a reasonable target when taking into account several factors including climate mitigation costs, residual impacts of climate change, and avoidance of abrupt climate change. The world consists of various countries, and they differ from each other in terms of economic growth stage, industrial structure, energy-saving achievement, potential renewable energy, and the like. It is very important for all countries to undertake significant efforts while recognizing such differences. Responses to climate change should be harmonized with sustainable development policies. Furthermore, sustainable efforts to mitigate climate change require equitable emission reduction targets. Without them, it is impossible to work for emission reductions sustainably over the long-term, which is indispensable for climate stabilization.
Managing children's heart disease : a basic guide to wizardry : guest editorial

Few things are as worrisome as a sick child, and when that child's malaise seems to spring from a defective heart, most medics pale. Differential cyanosis, mid-diastolic murmur, dextrocardia and ejection click: the legion of terms from the lexicon of cardiogenic symptoms and signs seem to be suffused with an aura of daunting complexity. Only after some people - mumbling incoherently around a flashing echo screen in a darkened room - have probed the patient, or a pontificating highbrow has deciphered those hideous hieroglyphics on long paper strips, may cracks appear to throw some light on the child's true diagnosis. Then you pass your patient on through a series of hoops into the hands of worried anaesthetists asking awkward questions before allowing a coldly competent craftsman to 'correct the defect'.
Quadrotor deployment for emergency response in smart cities: A robust MPC approach

We consider the deployment of quadrotors for surveying damages and providing aid after disasters and in emergencies. A central assumption in this work is that as a result of the disaster, information regarding potential obstacles is either not available or not reliable. We therefore provide path planning and object avoidance algorithms that rely only on local sensing of the environment. We introduce a Robust Model Predictive Control (RMPC) method subject to input and output constraints which guarantees that all the obstacles in the local perception map are avoided even in the presence of polytopic uncertainties. Through a series of relaxations, the RMPC problem is formulated as a set of Linear Matrix Inequalities (LMIs), whose solution is guaranteed to be a feasible point for the original RMPC problem. A major improvement resulting from the proposed method is that the number of LMI constraints grows linearly with the number of uncertainties, which makes the method applicable to systems with relatively large number of uncertainties.
The Geospatial Data Quality REST API for Primary Biodiversity Data

Summary: We present a REST web service to assess the geospatial quality of primary biodiversity data. It enables access to basic and advanced functions to detect completeness and consistency issues as well as general errors in the provided record or set of records. The API uses JSON for data interchange and efficient parallelization techniques for fast assessments of large datasets. Availability and implementation: The Geospatial Data Quality API is part of the VertNet set of APIs. It can be accessed at http://api-geospatial.vertnet-portal.appspot.com/geospatial and is already implemented in the VertNet data portal for quality reporting. Source code is freely available under GPL license from http://www.github.com/vertnet/api-geospatial. Contact: moc.liamg@iugeto.reivaj or ude.lfu.hnmlf@kcinlarugr Supplementary information: Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
The Modern Copy: Dante, Ariosto, and Michelangelo’s Sistine Ceiling

AT THE CENTER OF THE SISTINE CHAPEL CEILING , Michelangelo has painted God creating Eve from Adam’s side (fig. 1). About to go on sabbatical, God hands creativity off to the human couple. He blesses and bids them to increase and multiply, to reproduce and make copies of themselves. In this central scene Michelangelo has himself created an emblem of modernity: the condition of human making that knows itself to be secondary and distinct from a historically prior and authoritative act of creation. This is the self-aware modernity that emerged in and has come to define Michelangelo’s own epoch. Men and women of the Renaissance recognized their difference and distance from classical antiquity and its godlike creators, and, in that same moment, they recognized themselves as the makers of their own culture. Modernity has been the condition of Western culture ever since, and it comports a double, Janusfaced attitude, toward past and future. The modern maker feels his or her works to be so many copies of past creations. Because the latter belong to a now closedoff past, they coalesce into the unity, prestige, and sacrality of a canon: the historical remove of modernity can thus seem like an ontological one. So many copies: because the modern is also oriented to a open-ended future, this secondary creativity acknowledges its own tendency toward proliferation and multiplicity. It acknowledges, too, its own supersession in the course of time. The modern’s creations fall into an indefinitely expanding series, like the generations of human reproduction itself, whose offspring, all based on the same model of
Autonomous Robotic System for Pin Pulling Operation in Rail Yard

The railroad industry expends significant effort to increase operational safety and efficiency by using a variety of sensors for machine health monitoring and inspection purposes. This paper proposes to advance rail technology even further to use similar sensor data for the control of a robotic system designed to automate the uncoupling of freight cars, a hazardous operation that currently requires human operators to interact with moving trains. To automate this process, an intelligent robotic system was developed to detect, track, approach, grasp, and manipulate semi-constrained objects on equipment in motion. This work presents a system prototype that utilizes machine vision, force feedback, and complex end-effector technology capable of autonomously uncoupling full-scale freight cars using visual and tactile feedback. Laboratory tests have proven that modern robotic and sensing hardware can be used to reliably separate pairs of rolling stock at 3.25 kilometers per hour. The results to date suggest that speeds of up to 7 km/h are feasible for a system deployed in a rail yard.© 2015 ASME
“Indirect-Choice” Olfactometer Experiments on Adult Alfalfa Weevils,

The 1st experimental evidence that adult alfalfa weevils, Hypera postica (Gyllenhal), are attracted by the odor of their principal host plant, Medicago sativa , was published in 1966 by Byrne and Steinhauer. They used a specially designed “indirect-choice” olfactometer to test attractiveness of fresh alfalfa over short distances (less than 10 cm), and concluded, in part, that “alfalfa produces a volatile substance which elicits an olfactory response from the alfalfa weevil.” Subsequently, however, this research has been extrapolated into an olfactory orientation hypothesis which proposes that adult weevils are able to locate suitable host plants by tracking the odor of alfalfa to its source (Hsiao 1969). This hypothesis has developed informally, largely without the benefit of experimental verification, and exists despite observational evidence which challenges its basic assumptions.
Analysis on Aluminum Pollution in the Foods in Shanghai

The aluminum in the foods was investigated in Shanghai.The ninety-four samples in four groups of foods were analyzed according to GB/T 5009.182-2003.The results showed that according to GB 15202-1994,the biscuit up to standard rate was 100%,the cake up to standard rate was 85.5%,the steam bun up to standard rate was 81.8% and the oil-strip up to standard rate was only 53.5%.Some proposals and measures for the aluminum pollution control.
Surveillance of Adverse Events Following Immunization in Jinjiang District,Chengdu City,2013

Objective To analyze the features of adverse events following immunization( AEFI) occurred in Jinjiang,and to evaluate the operations status of AEFI surveillance system and safety of vaccination. Methods A descriptive epidemiological method was used to analyze the data of AEFI cases of Jinjiang in 2013. Results A total of 134 AEFI cases were reported in 2013 and the AEFI reported incidence was 49. 21 /105. The reported incidence included general reaction incidence( 39. 66 / /105),adverse reaction incidence( 9. 18 /105),coincidence disease incidence( 0. 37 /105),JE( inactivated) vaccine related incidence( 351. 49 /105),23-valent pneumococcal vaccine related incidence( 269. 14 /105),Leprosy vaccine related incidence( 207. 73 /105),mumps vaccine related incidence( 196. 85 /105),and DPT,IPV combined Hib vaccine related incidence( 153. 32 /105). Among the 134 cases of AEFI,male cases accounted for 61. 19%,female cases accounted for 38. 81%,cases under one year old accounted for 38. 81%; cases lived in Chenglong road street accounted for 26. 87%,in Liujiang street accounting for 11. 94%,in Dongguang street accounted for 9. 70%;cases occurred in April and May accounted for 29. 10%,in July and August accounted for 26. 87%. Cases of general reaction accounted for 80. 59%, adversereaction accounting for 18. 66%, coincidence disease accounted for 0. 75%. In the 134 cases of AEFI, the AEFI cases occurred within one day after vaccination accounted for 86. 57%; cases cured accounted for 100. 00%. The streets reported the AEFI covered the whole region. The timely report rate in 48 hours,the investigation rate within 48 hours and case investigation integrity rate all reached 100. 00%. Conclusion The AEFI cases of Jinjiang in 2013 mainly occurred in younger children. The report incidence of EFI stayed within the expected range,and the safety of vaccines was satisfactory.
Regulation of inducible nitric oxide synthase in hepatic sinusoidal endothelial cells

Nitric oxide (NO) has many important physiological effects that depend in part on its cellular source(s). In liver, NO is produced by all major cell types, including hepatocytes, Kupffer, stellate, and sinusoidal endothelial cells (SECs). Although endothelial cells have been commonly associated with constitutive NO production, recent evidence suggests that NO is inducible in this cell type. Here, we investigated the regulation of inducible NO synthase (iNOS) in SECs. Interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) as individual compounds induced iNOS mRNA in SECs. Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) had no effect when used alone but enhanced iNOS mRNA upregulation by IFN-gamma. iNOS transcription after LPS was present only for 4 h after exposure yet was more sustained after IFN-gamma/TNF-alpha, LPS was unique in that it transiently induced iNOS mRNA, whereas IFN-gamma/TNF-alpha resulted in prolonged increases in iNOS mRNA. Both LPS and IFN-gamma/TNF-alpha caused prolonged elevation of immunoreactive protein. However, when stimulated by LPS, iNOS remained enzymatically active for only 24-48 h. After IFN-gamma or IFN-gamma/TNF-alpha, iNOS activity declined only moderately. LPS added to IFN-gamma alone or IFN-gamma/TNF-alpha did not result in more rapid decay of iNOS enzymatic activity. These data indicate that induction of iNOS by sinusoidal endothelial cells is prominent and that it is regulated both transcriptionally and by its inactivation. Such complex regulation of iNOS has important implications for NO biology in liver disease.
Security implications of simultaneous dynamic and leakage power analysis attacks on nanoscale cryptographic circuits

The implications of simultaneous differential power analysis (DPA) and leakage power analysis (LPA) attacks are investigated on nanoscale cryptographic circuits which employ dynamic voltage scaling (DVS) or aggressive voltage scaling techniques. As compared with individually performing a DPA or an LPA attack on the corresponding cryptographic circuits, the number of required plaintexts to disclose the key with a 0.9 success rate reduces by 93.5% (as compared with DPA attacks) and 93.06% (as compared with LPA attacks), respectively, when the variance of supply voltage is 0.0833 V 2.
Public Protests and Policy Making

Technological advances and the development of social media have made petitions, public protests, and other form of spontaneous activism increasingly common tools for individuals to influence decision makers. To study these phenomena, in this article I present a theory of petitions and public protests that explores their limits as mechanisms to aggregate information. The key assumption is that valuable information is dispersed among citizens. Through petitions and protests, citizens can signal their private information to the policy maker, who can then choose to use it or not. I first show that if citizens’ individual signals are not sufficiently precise, information aggregation is impossible, no matter how large is the population of informed citizens, even if the conflict with the policy maker is small. I then characterize the conditions on conflict and the signal structure that guarantee information aggregation. When these conditions are satisfied, I show that full information aggregation is possible as the population grows to infinity. When they are not satisfied, I show that information aggregation may still be possible if social media are available.
Reaction Mechanism of Nerve-Agent Decomposition with Zr-Based Metal Organic Frameworks

We present a detailed study of the decomposition of Sarin on the Zr-based UiO-66 and MOF-808 metal organic frameworks (MOFs) using electronic structure calculations. The central step of the mechanism involves nucleophilic addition of OH to the nerve agent coordinated to a Zr atom of the MOF. This addition process generates a phosphorus pentacoordinated intermediate from which phosphonic acid products are formed through an elimination step, which also produces HF or isopropanol. Two major mechanisms have been probed. In the lowest-energy mechanism, a hydroxide ligand coordinated to a MOF Zr atom acts as the nucleophile in the addition step. In the second mechanism, which exhibits a slightly larger barrier, this Zr–OH group acts as a base to deprotonate a water molecule and generate a hydroxide moiety that concertedly adds to the nerve agent. In both mechanisms, the phosphonic acid products of the nerve-agent decomposition are strongly bound to the MOFs, suggesting that regeneration of the catalyst at the g...
Special Lenses: Aspheric

Aspheric intraocular lenses represent an innovative design for enhanced image formation in the eye. Aging changes in the crystalline lens cause increasing spherical aberration throughout life. Aspheric IOLs offer the cataract surgeons, the opportunity to improve patients' functional vision by minimizing spherical aberration.
Impact of Area Deprivation Index on Coronary Stent Utilization in a Medicare Nationwide Cohort

Abstract Area Deprivation Index (ADI) is a marker of neighborhood deprivation. This study investigates utilization of coronary bare-metal stent (BMS) and drug-eluting stent (DES) in Medicare patients across hospitals with varying ADI. Data were abstracted using Diagnosis-Related Group (DRG) codes 249 (BMS without major complications or comorbidities [MCC]), 246, and 247 (DES with and without MCC, respectively) from the 2011–2012 Medicare Provider Utilization and Payment Data Inpatient File, which was linked to American Hospital Association data (to determine bed size, location, ownership, teaching status), and ADI for each hospital zip code was obtained. Hospitals were divided into quintiles using ADI values: Quintile 1 (privileged) to Quintile 5 (deprived). Logistic regression was conducted to determine odds ratios (ORs) for DES utilization across ADI quintiles. There were 313,739 discharges with DRG codes 246 (52,839), 247 (203,928), and 249 (56,972). DES utilization was lower in the deprived quintile, ...
Circulation analysis in the northwest Indian Ocean using ARGO floats and surface drifter observations, and SODA reanalysis output

Abstract This study incorporates observations from Array of Real-time Geostrophic Oceanography (ARGO) floats and surface drifters to identify seasonal circulation patterns at the surface, 1000 m, 1500 m, and 2000 m in the northwest Indian Ocean, and quantify velocities associated with them. A skill comparison of the Simple Ocean Data Assimilation (SODA) reanalysis output was also performed to contribute to the understanding of the circulation dynamics in this region. Subsurface currents were quantified and validated using the ARGO float data. Surface currents were identified using surface drifter data and compared to the subsurface observations to enhance our previous understanding of surface circulations. Quantified Southwest Monsoon surface currents include the Somali Current (v max = 179.5 cm/s), the East Arabian Current (v max = 52.3 cm/s), and the Southwest Monsoon Current (v max = 51.2 cm/s). Northeastward flow along the Somali coast is also observed at 1000 m (v max = 26.1 cm/s) and 1500 m (v max = 12.7 cm/s). Currents associated with the Great Whirl are observed at the surface (v max = 161.4 cm/s) and at 1000 m (v max = 16.2 cm/s). In contrast to previous studies, both ARGO and surface drifter data show the Great Whirl can form as early as the boreal Spring intermonsoon, lasting until the boreal Fall intermonsoon. The Arabian Sea exhibits eastward/southeastward flow at the surface, 1000 m, 1500 m, and 2000 m. Quantified Northeast Monsoon surface currents include the Somali Current (v max = 97.3 cm/s), Northeast Monsoon Current (v max = 30.0 cm/s), and the North Equatorial Current (v max = 28.5 cm/s). Southwestward flow along the Somali coast extends as deep as 1500 m. Point-by-point vector and scalar correlations of SODA output to ARGO and surface drifter data showed that surface SODA output and surface drifter data generally produced a strong correlation attributed to surface currents strongly controlled by the monsoons, while subsurface correlations of SODA output and ARGO were mostly insignificant due to variability associated with intermonsoonal transitions. SODA output produced overall smaller velocities than both observational datasets. Assimilating ARGO velocities into the SODA reanalysis could improve subsurface velocity assimilation, especially during the boreal fall and spring when ARGO observations suggest that flow is highly variable.
Management of 3D Image Data

Previous chapters in this text have demonstrated some of the applications of three-dimensional (3D) imaging capture methods including medical imaging (X-ray/CT/MRI), 3D surface or laser scanning, 3D photography, and microscopy. This chapter will discuss what exactly 3D data is filewise and what information is embedded in those files. It will also make recommendations as to how to efficiently manage 3D image data and store it. Additionally, forensic researchers and practitioners will be made aware of some of the security issues they may face when working with sensitive 3D image files.
Cut points: An invariant of virtual links

Checkerboard framings are an extension of checkerboard colorings for virtual links. From checkerboard framings, we obtain an independent invariant of virtual links: the cut point number. Checkerboard framings and cut points can be used as a tool to extend other classical invariants to virtual links.
Entry assumptions and welfare gains from trade

When productivities are not Pareto distributed, welfare gains from trade are not necessarily isomorphic between entry assumptions. Under exogenous entry, the extra adjustment in dividends dampens the relative increase in real wage as trade costs decline, resulting in lower welfare gains than under free entry.
Analyte-Receptor Binding on SPR Biosensors: A Fractal Analysis of Cre-loxP Interactions and the Influence of Cl, O and S on Drug-Liposome Interactions

The chapter provides an alternate analysis of two examples available in the literature where the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) is used to kinetically analyze the sensorgrams. The fractal analysis is offered as an alternate analysis to improve the understanding of the kinetics of these two types of interactions. The fractal analysis is used to analyze Cre– lox P interactions and drug–liposome interactions. The data analyzed are evaluated by the software that comes with the SPR biosensor and by the modifications made to the software analysis. SPR is one of the analyte detection biosensor systems that possess the characteristics—such as (1) monitoring of reactions in real time, (2) no radiolabeling or biochemical tagging, and (3) reusebility, flexible experimental design, and rapid automated analysis—that have promoted its enhanced usage in recent times. To include the degree of heterogeneity present on the surface, and its influence on the binding and dissociation (where ever applicable), kinetics data taken from the literature for Cre– lox P interactions and for drug–liposome interactions are reanalyzed.
Exercise Prescription Using a Group-Normalized Rating of Perceived Exertion in Adolescents and Adults With Spina Bifida.

Abstract Background People with spina bifida (SB) face personal and environmental barriers to exercise that contribute to physical inactivity, obesity, risk of cardiovascular disease, and poor aerobic fitness. The WHEEL rating of perceived exertion (RPE) Scale was validated in people with SB to monitor exercise intensity. However, the psycho-physiological link between RPE and ventilatory breakpoint (Vpt), the group-normalized perceptual response, has not been determined and would provide a starting point for aerobic exercise in this cohort. Objectives The primary objectives were to determine the group-normalized RPE equivalent to Vpt based on WHEEL and Borg Scale ratings and to develop a regression model to predict Borg Scale (conditional metric) from WHEEL Scale (criterion metric). The secondary objective was to create a table of interchangeable values between WHEEL and Borg Scale RPE for people with SB performing a load incremental stress test. Design Cross-sectional observational. Setting University laboratory. Participants Twenty-nine participants with SB. Methods Participants completed a load incremented arm ergometer exercise stress test. WHEEL and Borg Scale ratings were recorded the last 15 seconds of each 1-minute test phase. Outcome Measures WHEEL and Borg Scale ratings, metabolic measures (eg, oxygen consumption, carbon dioxide production). Determined Vpt via plots of oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide production against time. Results Nineteen of 29 participants achieved Vpt (Group A). The mean ± standard deviation peak oxygen consumption at Vpt for Group A was 61.76 ± 16.26. The WHEEL and Borg Scale RPE at Vpt were 5.74 ± 2.58 (range 0-10) and 13.95 ± 3.50 (range 6-19), respectively. A significant linear regression model was developed (Borg Scale rating=1.22 × WHEEL Scale rating + 7.14) and used to create a WHEEL-to-Borg Scale RPE conversion table. Conclusion A significant linear regression model and table of interchangeable values was developed for participants with SB. The group-normalized RPE (WHEEL, 5.74; Borg, 13.95) can be used to prescribe and self-regulate arm ergometer exercise intensity approximating the Vpt. Level of Evidence II
Energy efficiency analysis of query optimizations on MongoDB and Cassandra

As big data emerges, the complexity of database workloads and database systems has increased significantly. It is no longer possible for one type of database to efficiently handle all big data applications. NoSQL databases are widely used to complement conventional SQL databases. In addition to traditional metrics such as response time and throughput, large scale NoSQL database systems pose higher requirements on energy efficiency due to the incredible volume of data (and the associated cost) that need to be stored and processed. Unfortunately, research on optimizations for energy efficiency in database systems has been historically overlooked. In this paper, we investigate numerous optimizations for two NoSQL databases (MongoDB and Cassandra) and conduct a comprehensive study on the impact of these optimizations on performance and energy efficiency. Our experimental results derived from 100GB of Twitter data reveal that 1) energy efficiency can be improved significantly for both MongoDB and Cassandra via query optimizations without degrading performance; and 2) energy efficiency does not always scale linearly with performance improvement.
Seeded growth of single-crystal two-dimensional covalent organic frameworks

Polymerization of monomers into periodic two-dimensional networks provides structurally precise, layered macromolecular sheets that exhibit desirable mechanical, optoelectronic, and molecular transport properties. Two-dimensional covalent organic frameworks (2D COFs) offer broad monomer scope but are generally isolated as powders comprising aggregated nanometer-scale crystallites. We found that 2D COF formation could be controlled using a two-step procedure in which monomers are added slowly to preformed nanoparticle seeds. The resulting 2D COFs are isolated as single-crystalline, micrometer-sized particles. Transient absorption spectroscopy of the dispersed COF nanoparticles revealed improvement in signal quality by two to three orders of magnitude relative to polycrystalline powder samples, and suggests exciton diffusion over longer length scales than those obtained through previous approaches. These findings should enable a broad exploration of synthetic 2D polymer structures and properties.
HEATING WITH OFF-PEAK ELECTRICITY: A COST-EFFECTIVE WAY TO SAVE OIL AND GAS

Publisher Summary Electric heating, when combined with appropriate load management techniques, is an efficient method of providing building heating services. An important economic consideration is that electricity can be produced from relatively abundant coal and nuclear fuels. A second consideration is that for some years into the future, it will be possible to make use of low cost off-peak electricity while avoiding many of the capital costs normally associated with the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity. This can be accomplished either by incorporating a thermal energy storage device in the heating system or by adding a dual-fuel backup capability. It is discussed that the thermodynamic argument against electricity can be put to rest if heat pumps are used. When heat pumps are used, the overall thermodynamic efficiency, counting losses in electric generation and transmission, can be brought up to the level for oil and natural gas. Like resistive systems, heat pumps can be combined with off-peak thermal storage technologies.
In Vivo Viscoelastic Response (VisR) Ultrasound for Characterizing Mechanical Anisotropy in Lower-Limb Skeletal Muscles of Boys with and without Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

Abstract Our group has previously found that in silico, mechanical anisotropy may be interrogated by exciting transversely isotropic materials with geometrically asymmetric acoustic radiation force excitations and then monitoring the associated induced displacements in the region of excitation. We now translate acoustic radiation force-based anisotropy assessment to human muscle in vivo and investigate its clinical relevance to monitoring muscle degeneration in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Clinical anisotropy assessments were performed using Viscoelastic Response ultrasound, with a degree of anisotropy reflected by the ratios of Viscoelastic Response relative elasticity (RE) or relative viscosity (RV) measured with the asymmetric radiation force oriented parallel versus perpendicular to muscle fiber alignment. In vivo results from rectus femoris and gastrocnemius muscles of boys aged ∼7.9–10.4 y indicate that RE and RV anisotropy ratios in rectus femoris muscles of boys with DMD were significantly higher than those of healthy control boys (RE: DMD = 1.51 ± 0.87, control = 0.99 ± 0.69, p = 0.04, Wilcoxon rank sum test; RV: DMD = 1.04 ± 0.71, control = 0.74 ± 0.22, p = 0.02). In the gastrocnemius muscle, only the RV anisotropy ratio was significantly higher in dystrophic than control patients (DMD = 1.23 ± 0.35, control = 0.88 ± 0.31, p = 0.04). In the dystrophic rectus femoris muscle, the RE anisotropy ratio was inversely correlated (slope = –0.03/lbf, r = –0.43, p = 0.07, Pearson correlation) with quantitative muscle testing functional output measures but was not correlated with quantitative muscle testing in the dystrophic gastrocnemius. These results suggest that Viscoelastic Response RE and RV measures reflect differences in mechanical anisotropy associated with functional impairment with dystrophic degeneration that are relevant to monitoring DMD clinically.
A Fruitful Usage of a Dialkylthiophene Comonomer for Redox Stable Wide-Gap Cathodically Coloring Electrochromic Polymers

A series of conjugated polymers are prepared via direct heteroarylation polymerization with the goal of yielding wide-gap, yellow and orange switching to transmissive cathodically coloring electrochromic polymers (ECPs). The polymers are based on repeat units of dialkylthiophene (DAT) in alternation with dioxythiophenes (DOTs) with various side chains to induce differing levels of inter-ring strain yielding 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene (DAT-EDOT), 3,4-propylenedioxythiophene (DAT-ProDOT), 3,4-(1,3-dimethylpropylene)dioxythiophene (DAT-DMP), and 3,4-dimethoxythiophene (DAT-DMOT) structured polymers. Examination of the optoelectronic properties via UV–vis–NIR spectroscopy, differential pulse voltammetry, and spectroelectrochemistry shows that while increasing the inter-ring strain induced by the side chain of the DOT unit leads to an increased oxidation potential ranging from −122 to +288 mV relative to Fc/Fc+, this does not decrease the accessibility of the extreme charge states. Through subtle steric intera...
A road map for point-of-care ultrasound training in internal medicine residency

Ever-expanding uses have been developed for ultrasound, including its focused use at the bedside, often referred to as point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS). POCUS has been well developed and integrated into training in numerous fields, but remains relatively undefined in internal medicine training. This training has been shown to be desirable to both educators and trainees, but has proven difficult to implement. We sought to create a road map for internal medicine residency programs looking to create a POCUS program. Four internal medicine residency programs that have successfully integrated POCUS training describe their programs, as well as the principles and concepts underlying program development and execution. Review of educational teaching and assessment methods is outlined, as well as suggestions for integration into an already busy residency curriculum. Commonly reported barriers to POCUS implementation such as faculty development, equipment purchasing, resident supervision and quality assurance are addressed. Specific POCUS applications to target are touched upon, and a comparison of applications taught within these four programs suggest that there may be enough similarities to suggest a common curriculum. Finally, future needs are discussed. POCUS can be successfully taught to internal medicine residents as a part of internal medicine training. Many common elements and principles are evident on review of these four described successful programs. Future support, in the form of endorsed medical society guidelines, will be needed before POCUS is universally incorporated across internal medicine residency training programs.
Vascular flora of two wetlands in the Red River Gorge Geological Area and Clifty Wilderness in Menifee and Powell Counties of Kentucky

The Red River Gorge Geological Area (RRGGA) and Clifty Wilderness (CW) are two gems of biodiversity in eastern Kentucky which draw over 40,000 visitors annually. Vascular floras of two wetlands (Booth Pond and Fish Trap) within the RRGGA and CW were conducted during the 2018 growing season. This project utilized 106 vouchers from 2016–2018, and documented 35 families, 49 genera, and 61 species. The most taxon-rich families include Cyperaceae (10 spp.), Fagaceae (four spp.), and Rubiaceae (four spp.). Rosa multiflora Thunb. ex Murr., an invasive species classified as a severe threat by the Kentucky Invasive Plant Council, was found at both sites. This study investigated two different ecological systems – Central Interior Highlands and Appalachian Sinkhole and Depression Pond with the upland sweetgum-red maple pond association (Booth Pond), and a Cumberland Seepage Forest with a forested swamp bog association (Fish Trap). Both associations are listed as imperiled (G2) by NatureServe. A Floristic Quality Assessment was also conducted for each site. Booth Pond had a Floristic Quality Index (FQI) score of 23.88 and a mean Coefficient of Conservatism (C) of 4.88 and Fish Trap had an FQI score of 23.57 and a mean C of 5.14.
Interpersonal Trauma, and PTSD Symptomology among Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Individuals: A Closer Look at Gender, Minority Stress, and Help-Seeking Behaviors

LGB+ (i.e., sexual orientations other than heterosexual) individuals are more likely than heterosexual individuals to experience interpersonal trauma (IPT) and minority stress related to their sexu...
Dynamics of cool flames

Abstract Cool flames play a critical role in ignition timing, burning rate, burning limits, engine knocking, and emissions in conventional and advanced combustion engines. This paper provides an overview of the recent progress in experimental and computational studies of cool flames. First, a brief review of low-temperature chemistry and classical studies of cool flames is presented. Next, the recent experimental and computational findings of cool flames in microchannels, microgravity droplet combustion, counterflow flames, and turbulent combustion environments are reviewed. The flammability diagrams of different low-temperature flames and their relations to hot flames in premixed and nonpremixed systems are discussed. The impact of cool flames on turbulent combustion and knock formation is also highlighted. Finally, future avenues in cool flame research, including the use of cool flames as a new platform for low-temperature kinetic model validation, are presented. It is concluded that the understanding and control of low-temperature combustion is critical for the development of future advanced engines and new fuels.