cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Theory and applications of the fission matrix method for continuous-energy Monte Carlo

Abstract The fission matrix method can be used to provide estimates of the fundamental mode fission distribution, the dominance ratio, the eigenvalue spectrum, and higher mode forward and adjoint eigenfunctions of the fission distribution. It can also be used to accelerate the convergence of power method iterations and to provide basis functions for higher-order perturbation theory. The higher-mode fission sources can be used to determine higher-mode forward fluxes and tallies, and work is underway to provide higher-mode adjoint-weighted fluxes and tallies. These aspects of the method are here both theoretically justified and demonstrated, and then used to investigate fundamental properties of the transport equation for a continuous-energy physics treatment. Implementation into the MCNP6 Monte Carlo code is also discussed, including a sparse representation of the fission matrix, which permits much larger and more accurate representations. Properties of the calculated eigenvalue spectrum of a 2D PWR problem are discussed: for a fine enough mesh and a sufficient degree of sampling, the spectrum both converges and has a negligible imaginary component. Calculation of the fundamental mode of the fission matrix for a fuel storage vault problem shows how convergence can be accelerated by over a factor of ten given a flat initial distribution. Forward fluxes and the relative uncertainties for a 2D PWR are shown, both of which qualitatively agree with expectation. Lastly, eigenmode expansions are performed during source convergence of the 2D PWR problem for two initial distributions; observed decay rates of coefficients agree closely with expectation.
A study of traditional lost-wax casting in India

Over the last twenty years, there has been a discernible increase in the number of scholars who have focused their research on metal production, working and use in antiquity, a field of study which has come to be known as archaeometallurgy. Materials scientists and conservators have worked primarily in the laboratory while archaeologists have conducted fieldwork geared to the study of metal technology in a cultural context with laboratory analysis as one portion of the interpretive program.
Cultivating Early Trajectories of Participation: A Blended Learning Environment for Business German.

The essay forwards suggestions for developing a blended learning environment to insert genre-based language for specific purposes (LSP) subject matter into the undergraduate second language development curriculum. Specifically, the essay will highlight: (1) the development of an overarching narrative for structuring the LSP subject matter; (2) the formulation of performance objectives for the modules that will deliver the subject matter; (3) the development of a learning strategy for the modules, including their alignment with the existing program curriculum and the use of bimonthly face-to-face labs; and (4) the development and implementation of instructional materials, including the creation of study aids and open educational digital resources.
Etiology and Pathogenesis of Diabetes Mellitus

The concept that diabetes mellitus is not a single disease. but rather a clinical syndrome characterized by inappropriately elevated fasting or post-prandial blood glucoses and the development of long-term microvascular, macrovascular, and neuropathic changes is of very recent origin and stems from numerous investigations into the epidemiology, genetics, etiology, and pathogenesis of clinical diabetic states. This article reviews some of these data and indicates that the various forms of diabetes mellitus have markedly different etiologies and pathogenetic mechanisms and that these must be recognized in order to understand and care for patients.
Ethical considerations in clinical trials

The ethical norms established in various codes and regulations are inadequate to resolve some of the ethical problems presented by clinical trials. They are stated too vaguely to provide unequivocal answers to many specific questions. In order to remedy this situation, many commentators have proposed the development of more specific and complex regulations. We propose that a more fruitful approach would be to examine the ethical principles underlying the norms and to apply these principles to the specific problems. We apply this approach to two questions: (1) Is it ethical to select subjects for a randomized clinical trial (RCT) exclusively from Veterans Administration (VA) hospitals? (2) In the conduct of a RCT is it necessary to disclose the fact that therapy will be determined by chance? We conclude that problems of justice arise not only because of the vulnerability of patients in VA hospitals but also because of the loss of the physician-patient relationship in an RCT. However, the use of patients in a VA hospital is not always unjust; in most cases such use can be made more just through various modifications in design. We also conclude that the fact of randomization should be disclosed in any situation in which it might materially affect the prospective subject's decision, and that the values and preferences of the subjects should be taken into account in determining what information might be material. This work is only a preliminary step toward analyzing ethical issues in clinical trials. While some would challenge our conclusions, we hope that our methods will facilitate clarity about the locus of disagreement in current controversies and about the value questions that must be answered in order to set an ethical context for the conduct of clinical trials.
Enabling Explosives and Contraband Detection with Neutron Resonant Attenuation. Year 1 of 3 Summary

Material Identification by Resonant Attenuation is a technique that measures the energy-dependent attenuation of 1-10 MeV neutrons as they pass through a sample. Elemental information is determined from the neutron absorption resonances unique to each element. With sufficient energy resolution, these resonances can be used to categorize a wide range of materials, serving as a powerful discrimination technique between explosives, contraband, and other materials. Our proposed system is unique in that it simultaneously down-scatters and time tags neutrons in scintillator detectors oriented between a d-T generator and sample. This allows not only for energy measurements without pulsed neutron beams, but for sample interrogation over a large range of relevant energies, vastly improving scan times. Our system’s core advantage is a potential breakthrough ability to provide detection discrimination of threat materials by their elemental composition (e.g. water vs. hydrogen peroxide) without opening the container. However, several technical and computational challenges associated with this technique have yet to be addressed. There are several open questions: what is the sensitivity to different materials, what scan times are necessary, what are the sources of background, how do each of these scale as the detector system is made larger, and how can the system bemore » integrated into existing scanning technology to close current detection gaps? In order to prove the applicability of this technology, we will develop a validated model to optimize the design and characterize the uncertainties in the measurement, and then test the system in a real-world scenario. This project seeks to perform R&D and laboratory tests that demonstrate proof of concept (TRL 3) to establishing an integrated system and evaluating its performance (TRL 4) through both laboratory tests and a validated detector model. The validated model will allow us to explore our technology’s benefits to explosive detection in various applications.« less
Fundamental concepts of friction and lubrication affecting textile fibers

Publisher Summary This chapter presents that although many of the basic ideas about friction were developed through work with metals, it is the result of the investigations with non-metals, in particular textiles and rubbers, which led to a deeper understanding of the field. The tangential force needed to slide one body against another is composed of an adhesion and a deformation term. The behavior of a metal sliding on a metal is predominantly governed by the adhesion mechanism. Transfer of material from one surface to another supports it. The deformation term assumes a significant role when two materials differ greatly in their hardness values, the normal force is high, and/or the harder surface has a significant degree of roughness. Even in those circumstances, the major part of the friction force arises from adhesion between junctions. As a tangential force is applied to initiate sliding, the local contact regions flow laterally and grow in area of contact, leading to an increase in friction, especially with smooth and clean metals. The presence of an oxide or a contaminant film greatly reduces the potential for such occurrence. Kinetic friction is smaller than static. A major reason for this is a decreased opportunity for junctions to develop and grow.
Current and Potential Future Chemopreventive Strategies Against Hepatitis B Virus Reinfection in Liver Transplant Recipients

Although the availability of effective oral therapies for hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection has reduced the need for liver transplantation (LT) for decompensated cirrhosis due to chronic infection, HBV remains an important cause of hepatocellular carcinoma and acute liver failure. Recurrent HBV infection occurs almost invariably post-LT in the absence of prophylaxis if viremia was detectable pre-LT, so prophylaxis remains necessary to prevent graft reinfection. Current approaches include the use of nucleos(t)ide analogues pre- and post-LT and hepatitis B immune globulin, but several novel antiviral agents are currently under investigation in non-transplant populations and may potentially prove to be useful in the LT setting in the future.
Chapter VII: Inorganic dielectrics

In reviewing the literature for the year 1964 it is evident that the number of papers which were concerned with single crystals has increased significantly. These papers were concerned primarily with fundamental dielectric theory. The papers did not concentrate on any particular crystal, but were concerned with a number of different crystals. It is also significant, that only a small percentage of these papers were published in this country.
Investigating the Use of Simulation Model for Teaching Engineering Design

Research on teaching engineering design skills at the K -- 12 level is in its early stages and there is a need to understand how to design technology enabled learning environments that support students' productive engagement with the engineering design disciplinary practices in formal classrooms. This paper presents a simulation model that was part of one such learning environment and was designed to identify students' tacit understanding of the system rules and scaffold engineering design thinking skills. Results indicate that sixth graders evidenced good understanding of the relationship between two and three system parameters. Students used their understanding of system rules while solving their design challenge. The simulation model helped elicit students' tacit understanding of system rules and primed them for future learning of engineering design practices.
Introduction: Li’l Abner and Critical Multimodal Discourse Analysis

Intertextual nature of texts and applied discourse analysis are discussed. Distinctive aspects of this book are found in its design. In each chapter, after discussing a concept from discourse theory, it applies that concept to a text of some kind from popular culture, media, and everyday life. Ideas from prominent discourse theorists are dealt with, different kinds of discourse analyses are explained, and they are differentiated from ethnomethodology.
Marketization, Nostalgia, And Social Connectedness: An Exploratory Study In Eastern Germany

The purpose of this paper is to uncover how East Germans reacted to product shortages following product abundance immediately after reunification and over time. The authors conduct in-depth interviews to document the stories of the individuals during this time period. Our data analysis reveals that East Germans experienced surprising trade-offs during this transition period. On the one hand, they now had access to an abundance of products. But on the other hand, something unexpected was lost. East Germans no longer needed extensive social networks to obtain products and services. As a result, the importance of maintaining social networks decreased leading to a lack of social connectedness and security. As their disenchantment with the new market system grew, Ostalgie - a form of nostalgia indigenous to the region characterized by a deep longing for the past - emerged. This seems to indicate that societies based on materialism can have unforeseen consequences of feelings of insecurity. Business can use these results to fundamentally reconsider their role in the well-being of consumers. As a result, marketers that focus on creating opportunities for social connection will satisfy a fundamental human need leading to more successful business models.
FLT3 Inhibitors: a paradigm for the development of targeted therapeutics for paediatric cancer

The area of molecularly-targeted cancer therapeutics is generating tremendous interest and excitement. While clinical investigation of these agents has been largely limited to adults, clinical trials for paediatric cancer patients with many of these agents are now underway. This paper reviews the current status of molecularly-targeted therapies for paediatric malignancies, with special attention given to one class of agents, inhibitors of the FLT3 receptor tyrosine kinase. FLT3 is expressed and activated in many human leukemias, including a significant percentage of pediatric AML and infant and childhood ALL, especially in the setting of MLL gene rearrangement. Activating mutations of FLT3 portend a poor prognosis in pediatric AML. Activated FLT3 can be effectively and selectively targeted by small molecule inhibitors, and these agents have shown promise in early phase clinical trials in adults with AML. Limited preclinical data with FLT3 inhibitors in MLL-rearranged ALL have also been reported. Challenges and future directions for the use of FLT3 inhibitors and other targeted agents in paediatric cancer are discussed.
Posttraumatic stress, posttraumatic growth, and satisfaction with life in military Veterans

Objective: Military veterans are more likely than civilians to experience trauma and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Research suggests, however, that some people who experience trauma, including veterans, report posttraumatic growth (PTG), or positive personal changes following adversity. In this study, we tested a comprehensive model of PTG, PTSD, and satisfaction with life in a veteran population, exploring the roles of challenges to core beliefs, types of rumination, sex, and time since event. Method: Data were collected via Amazon’s Mechanical Turk, an online crowdsourcing website, from veterans (N = 197) who had experienced a stressful event within the last 3 years (M = 16.66 months, SD = 12.27 months). Structural equation modeling was used to test an integrated conceptual model of PTG, PTSD, and satisfaction with life. Results: Results showed that challenge to core beliefs was directly associated with both deliberate and intrusive rumination. Deliberate rumination was positively related to PTG...
45 Reducing peer violence and depressive symptoms among at-risk youth through an ed-initiated text-message intervention

Purpose To evaluate feasibility and acceptability, obtain preliminary efficacy data, and evaluate predictors of improvement with iDOVE, a brief in-person +longitudinal text-message violence and depression prevention intervention for high-risk adolescents seen in the emergency department (ED). Methods A pilot randomised controlled trial was conducted with English-speaking adolescents (ages 13 to 17), presenting to the ED for any reason, who reported past-year physical peer violence and current depressive symptoms. The CBT- and MI-based intervention consisted of a brief, computer-guided in-ED intervention; and 8 weeks of daily, automated text-message mood queries and daily, automated text-message curriculum (tailored based on daily mood and baseline gender and violence). Follow-up surveys (including CTS-2, BDI-2, and qualitative questions) were administered at 8 and 16 weeks. Descriptive statistics, mixed effects longitudinal regression models, and latent class models were calculated. Results iDOVE had high acceptability and feasibility: 86% of eligible youth consented, 95% completed 8 week follow-up, and 91% completed 16 week follow-up. High quantitative and qualitative satisfaction was reported by both intervention and control participants. The intervention had high engagement (96% of intervention group responded to at least 1 daily query, with a mean of 47/56 daily responses per participant [84% of days]). Comparing intervention to control, improved depressive symptoms (p=0.07) and physical peer violence (p=0.01) were observed among the more symptomatic youth in the intervention group (but no difference in symptoms between the full intervention and control groups) at 8 weeks. Latent class modelling showed that lower mood (measured through daily text-messages) at day 7 of the intervention correlated with no improvement in symptoms at 8 week follow-up. Conclusion and Significance This pilot RCT of an innovative technology-augmented intervention shows high feasibility and acceptability, a promising signal of reduced violence and depressive symptoms among the highest-risk participants, and a potential marker of non-response for future adaptive interventions.
Controlling Power System of Earth Station Using Embedded System

We have used two methods for earth station power controller is designed by Cortex M3 by using LPC 1768 board and FPGA board. Different loads having different power requirements and different fault conditions occurred. Earth station having 800 W inverter and having two failures named hard failure and soft failure. We have used solar energy as a main source of earth station and diesel generator for failure conditions. Using neural network, we developed algorithm in embedded C as per different types of failure, battery voltage, and solar voltage.
Cerebral arteriovenous malformation draining vein stenosis is associated with atherosclerotic risk factors

Objective The pathogenesis of venous outflow stenosis associated with cerebral arteriovenous malformation (AVM) draining veins is poorly understood. We sought to determine the relationship between venous stenosis and atherosclerotic risk factors. Materials and methods All patients with an AVM seen at our institution between 1990 and 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients 50 years, sex, race, hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, coronary artery disease, chronic kidney disease stage III, and cigarette smoking. The relationship between venous stenosis and atherosclerotic risk factors was assessed using univariate and multivariate analyses. Results 278 patients were included (mean age 41 years, 55% men). Venous stenosis was present in 87 patients (31% of the cohort). The presence of venous stenosis was significantly associated with age >50 years (P=0.05), hypertension (P=0.05), diabetes (P=0.02), and hyperlipidemia (P=0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that hyperlipidemia (P=0.05) was predictive of draining vein stenosis. Conclusions Venous stenosis is associated with several atherosclerotic risk factors, suggesting that cerebral AVM venous outflow stenosis occurs by a degenerative process. Additional studies can show whether these modifiable risk factors may be targeted to prevent draining vein stenosis and AVM rupture.
RNAi Doxxes Segregation Distorters on the X

Species with chromosomal sex determination are susceptible to an evolutionary tug-of-war over sex chromosome segregation. RNA silencing has been proposed to play a role in this intragenomic conflict. Reporting in Developmental Cell, Lin et al. (2018) demonstrate that RNA interference is key to this conflict as a genome defender.
Legal Capacity and Non-participatory Membership

In this chapter, the information theory approach is used to make a quantitative assessment of the four case studies and DSB litigation. The chapter examines in a new way, how variations in legal capacity affect a country’s decision to initiate or respond to a dispute at the WTO. To do this, it builds on existing definitions of legal capacity, but adds measures such as membership in WTO negotiation groups and other dispute settlement organizations, and experience at the DSB as a complainant, respondent or third party. It also evaluates experience with the Anti-Dumping Agreement domestically and at the WTO. As a test of how ready the aggrieved countries were to complain or defend their cases, legal capacity is measured only up to the time of their disputes. These factors are then comparatively assessed to show their magnitude and relationship with participation/non-participation at the DSB.
“Yup, Just Him”: Misconceptions and Our Table for Three

Less than a year after the birth of our son, I lost my job as a high school English teacher. Six months later, my wife miscarried for the first of an eventual three times over the next year. We soon learned that the unique combination of our DNA creates a chemical imbalance through which her body subsequently terminates any natural pregnancy. We’re both fertile. We’re both healthy. And we do have a son. But as a couple, we’re both now also members of a tragically rare club of tiny statistics who will simply never again carry a baby to term. This chapter chronicles my journey through the loss of a life we never had. Through these voids, my family now knows a loneliness and sterility that I must believe can only be alleviated through our shared faith that what makes our story fragile is also what gives us strength. Grief has no guidelines. Loss isn’t linear and pain doesn’t come with a manual. As I begin piecing together the last several years, I can only do so in the order in which it best makes sense to me. Just as suffering may have no logic, my story struggles for sequence.
Sex-specific role for dopamine receptor D2 in dorsal raphe serotonergic neuron modulation of defensive acoustic startle and dominance behavior

Brain networks underlying states of social and sensory alertness are normally adaptive, influenced by serotonin and dopamine, and abnormal in neuropsychiatric disorders, often with sex-specific manifestations. Underlying circuits, cells, and molecules are just beginning to be delineated. Implicated is a subtype of serotonergic neuron denoted Drd2-Pet1 –distinguished by expression of the type-2 dopamine receptor (Drd2) gene, inhibited cell-autonomously by DRD2 agonism in slice, and, when constitutively silenced in male mice, affects levels of defensive and exploratory behaviors (Niederkofler et al., 2016). Unknown has been whether DRD2 signaling in these Pet1 neurons contributes to their capacity for shaping defensive behaviors. To address this, we generated mice in which Drd2 gene sequences were deleted selectively in Pet1 neurons. We found that Drd2Pet1-CKO males, but not females, demonstrated increased winning against sex-matched controls in a social dominance assay. Drd2Pet1-CKO females, but not males, exhibited blunting of the acoustic startle response – a protective, defensive reflex. Indistinguishable from controls were auditory brainstem responses, locomotion, cognition, and anxiety- and depression-like behaviors. Analyzing wild-type Drd2-Pet1 neurons, we found sex-specific differences in the proportional distribution of axonal collaterals, in action potential duration, and in transcript levels of Gad2, important for GABA synthesis. Drd2Pet1-CKO cells displayed sex-specific differences in the percentage of cells harboring Gad2 transcripts. Our results suggest that DRD2 function in Drd2-Pet1 neurons is required for normal defensive/protective behaviors in a sex-specific manner, which may be influenced by the identified sex-specific molecular and cellular features. Related behaviors in humans too show sex differences, suggesting translational relevance. Significance statement A subtype of dorsal raphe serotonergic neuron, denoted Drd2-Pet1, is poised for regulation by dopamine via type-2 dopamine receptor (DRD2) expression. Functional removal of DRD2 in these cells through a conditional knockout (CKO) mouse strategy resulted in sex-specific behavioral abnormalities: Drd2Pet1-CKO females exhibited reduced acoustic startle while males showed increased social dominance. Drd2-Pet1 neurons were similar in number and distribution in males versus females but exhibited sex-specific differences in neurotransmission-related mRNAs, action potential duration, and relative distribution of collaterals. Abnormalities in sensory processing and social behaviors akin to those reported here manifest in autism, schizophrenia, and post-traumatic stress disorder, in sex-specific ways. Our findings, thus, may point to novel circuits and modulatory pathways relevant to human neuropsychiatric conditions.
Sounds Better? Potential Implications of Obscure American Viticultural Areas to Consumers

The American Viticultural Area (AVA) allows designated wine regions to be created, marketed, and protected. But many of the now 248 AVAs may be meaningless to consumers. Are AVAs thus meritless? Can AVAs affect consumers despite low recognition? A choice experiment examines three appellations that are applicable to the same wine: New Jersey, USA; Pilesgrove, New Jersey; and Outer Coastal Plain (OCP)—a New Jersey AVA. The results show that consumers prefer OCP wines over the former alternatives, affirming the marketing potential of AVAs that omit state names. Nevertheless, AVA may have exploited consumers’ lack of information.
Hedgehog signaling pathway gene variant influences bronchopulmonary dysplasia in extremely low birth weight infants.

Genome wide association study identified hedgehog interacting protein gene (HHIP) variants with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma. Loss of HHIP, a key regulator of the hedgehog signaling pathway, leads to impaired lung morphogenesis and lethality in animal models, through unimpeded sonic hedgehog expression blocking mesenchymal-expressed fibroblast growth factor 10 (FGF10). Since bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is also associated with altered lung development and worsens with stimuli including mechanical ventilation, reactive oxygen species, and inflammation, HHIP and FGF10 may be candidate genes. This was an observational, cohort study including extremely low birth weight infants that who developed BPD and those who did not. DNA was isolated from buccal swabs and subjected to allelic discrimination, using specific HHIP and FGF10 probes. Protein levels were measured in tracheal aspirates. Student's t test, Chi-square, Z test and logistic regression were used. Demographic characteristics did not differ except that birth weight (715 ± 153 vs. 835 ± 132 g) and gestational age (25 vs. 26 weeks) were less in babies with BPD. HHIP variant rs13147758 (GG genotype) was found to be independently protective for BPD (odds ratio 0.35, 95% confidence interval 0.15–0.82, P = − 0.02). Early airway HHIP protein levels were increased in infants with BPD compared to those without [median (interquartile range) 130.6 (55.6–297.0) and 41.2 (22.1–145.6) pg/mL, respectively; P = 0.05]. The FGF10 single nucleotide polymorphisms were not associated with BPD. HHIP, as a regulator of lung bud formation, affects BPD susceptibility, and may be valuable in understanding the specific mechanisms for this disease as well as for identifying therapeutic targets in the era of personalized medicine.
The Impact of Money Supply on the Economy: A Panel Study on Selected Countries

This study investigates the impact of money supply on economic growth rate, inflation rate, exchange rate and real interest rate. We used a panel of 217 countries from 1960 to 2020 and four different models to address these questions. The empirical results support the quantity theory of money. In addition, the study found evidence for a negative relationship between real interest rate and inflation and between money supply and real interest rate. Finally, our results show that lagged money growth rate is positively correlated with GDP growth rate but money growth rate is negatively correlated with GDP growth rate.
ExTRAPOLATION OF K→ππ DECAY AMPLITUDE

We examine the uncertainties involved in the off-mass-shell extrapolation of the K→ππ decay amplitude with emphasis on those aspects that have so far been overlooked or ignored. Among them are initial-state interactions, choice of the extrapolated kaon field, and the relation between the asymptotic behavior and the zeros of the decay amplitude. In the inelastic region the phase of the decay amplitude cannot be determined by strong interaction alone and even its asymptotic value cannot be deduced from experiment. More a fundamental issue is intrinsic nonuniqueness of off-shell values of hadronic matrix elements in general. Though we are hampered with the complexity of intermediate-energy meson interactions, we attempt to obtain a quantitative idea of the uncertainties due to the inelastic region and find that they can be much larger than more optimistic views portray. If large uncertainties exist, they have unfortunate implications in the numerical accuracy of the computation of the direct CP violation parameter ∊′.
Assessment of Post-Procedural Aortic Regurgitation after TAVR An Intraprocedural TEE Study

Abstract Objectives The purpose of this study was to determine which echocardiographic parameters, including holodiastolic flow reversal (HDFR) in the descending aorta, were useful for grading of post-procedural aortic regurgitation (PAR) after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) using intraprocedural transesophageal echocardiography. Background Reliable assessment of PAR in a catheterization laboratory is essential for an optimal outcome after TAVR; however, such an assessment has not been determined. Methods Three hundred eighty patients who underwent TAVR with the Edwards (Irvine, California) balloon-expandable transcatheter heart valve were retrospectively assessed by intraprocedural transesophageal echocardiography. PAR was evaluated by 2-dimensional color Doppler and pulse-wave Doppler in the descending aorta. Using 2-dimensional color Doppler, we measured the cross-sectional area of the vena contracta, the circumferential extent at the aortic annular plane, the longitudinal jet length, and the jet extent (with a mosaic pattern in the left ventricular outflow tract) compared with the location of the tip of the anterior mitral leaflet (AML). Grading of PAR was determined using the following vena contracta cutoffs: mild ≤9 mm2; moderate 10 to 29 mm2; and severe ≥30 mm2. Significant PAR was defined as at least moderate grade. Results All patients with consistent HDFR had significant PAR. By multivariable analysis, consistent HDFR and the jet extent beyond the tip of AML were independent predictors of significant PAR. Consistent HDFR and jet extent beyond the tip of AML predicted significant PAR with specificities of 100% and 97%, respectively. In contrast, patients with both negative HDFR and a jet extent of less than halfway to the tip of AML had no significant PAR, with 97% specificity. Conclusions The presence of consistent HDFR and jet extent beyond the tip of AML are indicative of significant PAR after TAVR.
A Disability of the Soul: An Ethnography of Schizophrenia and Mental Illness in Contemporary Japan

Chapter 1. ArrivalsLife Story 1. Memory and Catharsis: Kiyoshi's StoryChapter 2. Psychiatry in JapanLife Story 2. Coming of Age in Japan: Rika's StoryChapter 3. Christianity in Japan and the Establishment of Hokkaido Chapter 4. The Founding of BethelLife Story 3. UFOs and Other Mass Delusions: Kohei's StoryChapter 5. The Doctor and the HospitalLife Story 4. 37 Years of Institutionalization: Why Did Yuzuru Never Want to Leave the Hospital?Chapter 6. Bethel TherapiesLife Story 5. Peer Support and a Meaningful Life: Gen's StoryChapter 7. DeparturesChapter 8. Beyond Bethel: A PostscriptNotes References Index
Modulation of electrical synaptic transmission in zebrafish retinal horizontal cells.

Electrical synaptic transmission is widespread in the vertebrate CNS and its modulation plays a critical role in altering the properties of coupled neural networks. In order to define further the mechanisms of electrical synaptic plasticity in the vertebrate retina, the electrophysiological characteristics of solitary horizontal cells and horizontal cell pairs from the zebrafish (Brachydanio rerio) were examined by whole-cell patch-clamp recordings from cells in primary cell culture. In solitary cells, the current-voltage relation exhibited inward current at potentials negative to -60 mV, a linear region of high resistance from -50 mV to 0 mV, and outward current positive to +20 mV. The inward current at negative potentials was blocked by substituting Cs+ for K+ in the extracellular medium, while the outward current at positive potentials was blocked by substitution of Cs+ for K+ in the pipette solution. Measurements of gap junctional conductance from electrically coupled cell pairs revealed that zebrafish horizontal cells expressed a mean junctional conductance of considerably smaller magnitude than other teleost retinal horizontal cells. Junctional conductance was found to be voltage dependent, exhibiting time- dependent closure with increasing transjunctional voltage. Voltage sensitivity was symmetrical about 0 mV junctional potential. At +/- 90 mV the ratio of steady state to peak current was approximately 0.5 and the time constant for inactivation of the junctional current was approximately 120 msec. Junctional conductance was also modulated by dopamine and cAMP. Pairs of horizontal cells responded to puff application of dopamine with a two- to threefold reduction in junctional conductance, but there was no discernible effect on extrajunctional conductances. The action of dopamine on coupling was mimicked by application of the dopamine agonist (+/-)-6,7-dihydroxy-2- amino-tetralin (ADTN) and the membrane permeable cAMP analog 8-bromo- cAMP. The selective D1 dopamine receptor antagonist SCH23390 blocked uncoupling by dopamine. These data provide a primary description of the electrophysiological characteristics of solitary horizontal cells and the electrical coupling between pairs of horizontal cells dissociated from the zebrafish retina. They indicate that zebrafish horizontal cells are distinct from the horizontal cells of other teleosts in their coupling characteristics. The results suggest that zebrafish horizontal cells exhibit differences in the regulation of synaptic assembly and maintenance that have important implications for the function of the zebrafish horizontal cell network in vivo.
Formative evaluation of a prototype system for automated analysis of mass spectrometry data.

Mass Spectrometry (MS) is emerging as a breakthrough mass-throughput technology capable of producing powerful clinical diagnostic and prognostic models and of identifying important disease biomarkers. Few individuals possess the necessary skills to carry out MS analyses competently, and access to such individuals is limited in most settings, hindering progress in this field. We seek to ease this burden by creating a fully automated system (FAST-AIMS) capable of analyzing mass spectra to produce high-quality diagnostic and outcome prediction models and identify related biomarkers. In the present report we introduce the system and conduct a formative evaluation in which 6 users apply it to a challenging dataset. FAST-AIMS’ performance is compared to that of an expert statistician as well as to a previously published analysis by an independent group. In our experiments FAST-AIMS when used by both MS-sophisticated users (n=4) and naive users (n=2) achieves performance (a) comparable to our human expert, and (b) superior to the previously published manual analysis; in addition (c) the system’s estimates future performance accurately, thus avoiding overfitting.
Collagen IV-dependent ERK Activation in Human Caco-2 Intestinal Epithelial Cells Requires Focal Adhesion Kinase

Integrin-initiated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activation by matrix adhesion may require focal adhesion kinase (FAK) or be FAK-independent via caveolin and Shc. This remains controversial for fibroblast and endothelial cell adhesion to fibronectin and is less understood for other matrix proteins and cells. We investigated Caco-2 intestinal epithelial cell ERK activation by collagen I and IV, laminin, and fibronectin. Collagens or laminin, but not fibronectin, stimulated tyrosine phosphorylation of FAK, paxillin, and p130 cas and activated ERK1/2. Shc, tyrosine-phosphorylated by matrix adhesion in many cells, was not phosphorylated in Caco-2 cells in response to any matrix. Caveolin expression did not affect Caco-2 Shc phosphorylation in response to fibronectin. FAK, ERK, and p130 cas tyrosine phosphorylation were activated after 10-min adhesion to collagen IV. FAK activity increased for 45 min after collagen IV adhesion and persisted for 2 h, while p130 cas phosphorylation increased only slightly after 10 min. ERK activity peaked at 10 min, declined after 30 min, and returned to base line after 1 h. Transfection with FAK-related nonkinase, but not substrate domain deleted p130 cas , strongly inhibited ERK2 activation in response to collagen IV, indicating Caco-2 ERK activation is at least partly regulated by FAK.
Menger's theorem in $${{\Pi^1_1\tt{-CA}_0}}$$

We prove Menger's theorem for countable graphs in $${{\Pi^1_1\tt{-CA}_0}}$$ . Our proof in fact proves a stronger statement, which we call extended Menger's theorem, that is equivalent to $${{\Pi^1_1\tt{-CA}_0}}$$ over $${{\tt{RCA}_0}}$$ .
Nonlinear modeling and state estimation for the Tennessee Eastman challenge process

Abstract A nonlinear, mechanistic model of the Tennessee Eastman (TE) Plant-wide Challenge Process is derived for use in on-line monitoring and control The model has 26 states, 10 unmeasured disturbances and process parameters are estimated such that an equal number of model outputs match the corresponding measurments at steady state. The model represents the steady-state behavior of the TE process over the entire operating range stipulated by Downs and Vogel [ Computers Chem. Engng 17 , 245–255 (1993)]. An extended Kalman Filter (EKF) provides continuous adjustments of the parameters (and states) during transients. The EKF also gives accurate predictions of both measured and unmeasured quantities-such as reaction rates-even in the presence of large, unmeasured disturbances. Possible uses of the model include fault detection, control, and optimization. Details of the rationale of the model structure, the elimination of steady-state bias, and EKF tuning provide a case study to aid in applications to other industrial problems.
A Study of Formation of Circulation Patterns in Laminar Unsteady Lid-Driven Cavity Flows Using PIV Measurement Techniques

An experimental study was conducted to observe/visualize, the formation of circulation patterns inside a square cavity due to the movement of a lid at constant velocity. Lid driven cavity flow is one of the benchmark studies used in the verification/improvement of CFD codes for internal flow applications/predictions. Previous work on this topic is primarily focused on improving the steady state predictions of the CFD codes using different numerical schemes and algorithms. Furthermore, almost all of the studies reported in computational fluid mechanics literature relates to steady state predictions of lid or shear driven flows. Experimental work that is reported in these studies is limited in scope and number. This paper reports on the measurements we made using Particle Image Velocimeter (PIV) technique to determine the flow field as it develops from stagnation to steady state inside a square cavity driven by a lid. For this purpose, we employed a 2-D PIV system, which uses a double-cavity, Nd:Yag laser to illuminate the test cavity. Experiments were conducted using water as the working fluid inside a square cavity that is one inch (25.4 mm) high and one inch wide. The depth of the cavity is five inches (127 mm) to ensure two-dimensional circulations patterns. Hollow glass sphere particles with 10 microns in diameter were used as seeding of the working fluid, water. Experiments were repeated for different lid velocities corresponding to lid Reynolds numbers (laminar to beginning of transition of turbulence.) Velocity fields were captured during the development of the circulations patters each being unique for the time of the measurement and value of the lid velocity. The center of the circulation pattern and its path inside the cavity is constructed from the captured images as steady state is attained. Also, the strength of the circulation (as manifested by the increase in the diameter of the circulation) is determined at different times for different Reynolds numbers.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Oxidative Stress Induces Vascular Calcification Through Modulation of the Osteogenic Transcription Factor Runx2 by AKT Signaling

Oxidative stress plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis including the formation of lipid laden macrophages and the development of inflammation. However, oxidative stress-induced molecular signaling that regulates the development of vascular calcification has not been investigated in depth. Osteogenic differentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) is critical in the development of calcification in atherosclerotic lesions. An important contributor to oxidative stress in atherosclerotic lesions is the formation of hydrogen peroxide from diverse sources in vascular cells. In this study we defined molecular signaling that is operative in the H2O2-induced VSMC calcification. We found that H2O2 promotes a phenotypic switch of VSMC from contractile to osteogenic phenotype. This response was associated with an increased expression and transactivity of Runx2, a key transcription factor for osteogenic differentiation. The essential role of Runx2 in oxidative stress-induced VSMC calcification was further confirmed by Runx2 depletion and overexpression. Inhibition of Runx2 using short hairpin RNA blocked VSMC calcification, and adenovirus-mediated overexpression of Runx2 alone induced VSMC calcification. Inhibition of H2O2-activated AKT signaling blocked VSMC calcification and Runx2 induction concurrently. This blockage did not cause VSMC apoptosis. Taken together, our data demonstrate a critical role for AKT-mediated induction of Runx2 in oxidative stress-induced VSMC calcification.
Induction of metallothionein-like protein in human breast tumor cells.

BOT-2 cells, a continuous human breast cell line derived from an infiltrating ductal cell carcinoma, accumulate Cd and Zn in a protein-bound form. The data presented represent the first demonstration in human breast cells of (a) cadmium time and concentration uptake, (b) de novo synthesis of metallothionein-like protein induced by cadmium and zinc, and (c) inhibition of metallothionein-like protein by protein and RNA synthesis inhibitors. The metal binding protein synthesized by BOT-2 cells is similar to the metallothionein-like protein of human milk. This protein appears to be important for the bioavailability of zinc in human infants.
InGaN/GaN nanowire green light emitting diodes on (001) Si substrates

Progress in solid state lighting at the present time primarily involves the research and development of visible nitridebased light emitting diodes (LEDs) and perhaps lasers in the future. However, this development has been impeded due to the lack of high-quality and low-cost GaN substrate. Successful growth of GaN and InGaN nanowires on silicon and other mismatched substrates has been demonstrated recently [1]. The nanowires exhibit significantly reduced defect density due to their large surface-to-volume ratio. A reduced strain distribution in the nanostructures also leads to a weaker piezoelectric polarization field. Other advantages include large light extraction efficiency and the compatibility with low-cost, large area silicon substrates. In the present study, we have conducted a detailed investigation of the molecular beam epitaxial (MBE) growth and optical properties of (In)GaN nanowires directly on (001) Si in the absence of a foreign metal catalyst. Green LEDs have been fabricated with an ensemble of nanowires and the characteristics of these devices are also presented.
Limits of integrated circuits

There are no technical limits to the successful realization of high power integrated circuits. The move to high power requires that some additional factors be considered. Better packages are required, larger bonding wires are needed, heavier interconnect metal must be used, and large area power transistors are necessary. In addition, the second breakdown or Safe Operating Area limits of the IC power transistors must be watched, the possibilities of high voltage parasitic MOS action requires new layout rules, and finally, the changes in power dissipation on the IC chip during circuit operation should not degrade the overall circuit performance. These problems are not without solutions.
Evaluation of the physical activity and public health course for researchers

Background: From 1995–2013, an 8-day Physical Activity and Public Health Course for Researchers has been offered yearly in the United States. Methods: In 2013, an evaluation quantified time that fellows spent in different course offerings, surveyed fellows on course impact, documented grant funding, and identified fellow participation on leading physical activity-related journals. Results: The number of fellows that attended the course ranged from 20 per year to 35 per year. Fellows who participated in the web survey (n = 322) agreed that the course: met their expectations (99%), had a positive impact on the physical activity research or practice work they did (98%), and helped increase their professional networking in the field (93%). Following the course, 73% of fellows had further contact with course faculty and 71% had further contact with other fellows. From the National Institutes of Health, 117 grants were awarded to 82 fellows (21% of eligible fellows). Out of 14 journals reviewed, 11 had at least...
THE THEORY, CONSTRUCTION, AND USES OF FLEXIBLE BUDGETS

THIS DISSERTATION deals with the general problem of flexible budgets in industrial situations. The problem has two broad aspects: first, the application of flexible budgets in a comprehensive budgetary program, and second, the relationship of flexible budgets to standard costs. Flexible budgets are dynamic cost or expense budgets expressing the effect of volume on costs and expenses. The study is somewhat comprehensive and exploratory in order to bring together for analysis, comparison, and appraisal, the various concepts, methodologies, and applications of flexible budgets. Consideration of the general problem necessitated study of certain specific problems, viz.: 1. Consideration and analysis of the underlying theory of flexible budgets-the principle of flexibility of costs. 2. Methods and mathematical aspects of the derivation and formal construction of flexible budgets. 3. Application of flexible budgets with the fixed-forecast budget. 4. Application of flexible budgets with standard costs. 5. Managerial uses of flexible budgets. 6. The interrelationship of flexible budgets and break-even analysis. The procedure involved a complete survey of current literature in order to determine the latest reported techniques, methods, and uses. The results of this aspect of the research are explained and illustrated to bring out the pertinent characteristics and interrelationships noted. This phase of the research was supplemented by field research conducted among industrial establishments to determine to what extent the reported techniques and applications are being used.' The results of the study point up the significant fact that in most cases flexible expense budgets are being used to supplement rather