cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Data dependence analysis techniques for increased accuracy and extracted parallelism

Parallelizing compilers rely on data dependence information in order to produce valid parallel code. Traditional data dependence analysis techniques. such as the Banerjee test and the I-Test, can efficiently compute data dependence information for simple instances of the data dependence problem. However, in more complex cases involving triangular or trapezoidal loop regions, symbolic variables, and multidimensional arrays with coupled subscripts these tests, including the triangular Banerjee test, ignore or simplify many of the constraints and thus introduce approximations, especially when testing for data dependence under direction vector constraints. The Omega test can accurately handle such complex cases, but at a higher computation cost. In this paper we extend the ideas behind the I-Test and present new techniques to handle complex instances of tile dependence problem, which are frequently found in actual source code. In particular, we provide polynomial-time techniques that can prove or disprove data dependences, subject to any direction vector, in loops with triangular or trapezoidal bounds, symbolic variables and multidimensional arrays with coupled subscripts. We also investigate the impact of the proposed data dependence analysis techniques in practice. We perform an extensive experimental evaluation of the data dependence analysis tests, including the I-Test, the Omega test and the proposed new techniques. We compare these tests in terms of data dependence accuracy, compilation efficiency and effectiveness in program parallelization. We run several experiments using the Perfect Club benchmarks and the scientific library Lapack. We analyze the trade-off between accuracy and efficiency and the reasons for any approximation of each data dependence test. We determine the impact of the dependence analysis phase on the total compilation time and we measure the number of loops parallelized by each test. We conclude that we can employ, polynomial-time techniques to improve data dependence accuracy and increase program parallelization to a reasonable computation cost.
Multifrequency observations of the red QSO 1413 + 135

The extremely red QSO 1413 + 135 shows characteristics typical of BL Lac objects—no emission lines, is embedded in a luminous galaxy, is subject to rapid radio and IR variability, has an inverted radio spectrum and shows substantial IR polarization. The rapid steepening of the nonthermal spectrum at λ < 5 µm is interpreted as synchrotron emission from an electron distribution that ends sharply at some maximum energy. The X-ray emission is probably inverse Compton radiation. We calculate that the optically thin emitting region is compact, has a large magnetic field and exhibits bulk relativistic motion towards the observer. The most energetic electrons in the emitting region have a Lorentz factor of 102–103.
Sources of Object-Specific Effects in Representational Momentum

In this study we explore the sources of object-specific effects in representational momentum (RM). “Object-specific effects” refers to the elicitation of different patterns of RM by different objects. We examined whether object-specific effects could be produced by an object's conceptual context, visual features, or their interaction. The conceptual context was composed of the object's label with, in some cases, a description of the object, plus experimental trials requiring the participant to identify the object. In addition, we examined whether the contribution of visual features to object-specific effects came from one particular visual feature previously linked to RM (pointedness), or from the object's overall appearance. Our results show that generally, the stimulus' overall appearance must be consistent with its conceptual context for related conceptual knowledge to produce object-specific RM effects. These experiments therefore provide evidence that knowledge particular to an object, or its categor...
Surgical principles for pancreatic cancer: Regional total and subtotal pancreatectomy

During the period 1972–1980, regional pancreatectomy has been performed in 40 patients: 36 had periampullary or pancreatic cancer, and 4 patients had benign disease. The 30-day postoperative mortality rate is 15% (6/40) overall, being 7% for the regional total pancreatectomy Type I, 29% for Type II, and 50% for regional subtotal Type I. Of the 30 patients with cancer who survived the operation, 33% are currently alive and 27% have died of other causes with no evidence of recurrent disease. An analysis of treatment failures in the remaining 12 patients (40%) who died of disease is presented.
Secondhand smoke and asthma: What are the effects on healthcare utilization among children?

Abstract Objective This study aims to examine the associations between asthma, secondhand smoke exposure and healthcare utilization in a nationally representative sample of children. Methods Data from 5686 children aged 0–11 years were analyzed. Healthcare utilization, asthma diagnosis and demographic information came from the 2001 and 2006 Medical Expenditure Panel Surveys. Secondhand smoke exposure was measured during the 2000 and 2005 National Health Interview Surveys. Multivariable regression models were used to determine the association between secondhand smoke exposure, asthma diagnosis and healthcare utilization (hospitalizations, emergency department visits, outpatient visits and prescription medication use). Results Asthma modified the relationship between secondhand smoke exposure and hospitalizations, as exposure more than doubled the odds of hospitalization among children with asthma but had no effect on children without asthma. Secondhand smoke exposure increased the odds by 37% of emergency room visits (P Conclusions Secondhand smoke exposure was associated with a greater utilization of hospitals and emergency departments, and the effect on hospitalizations was most pronounced among children with asthma. Reducing secondhand smoke exposure would help to reduce the burden on the healthcare system, especially among children with asthma.
Racine's the Theban brothers: A study in cosmic antagonism

(1970). Racine's the Theban brothers: A study in cosmic antagonism. Today's Speech: Vol. 18, No. 3, pp. 9-14.
Laparoscopic pyeloplasty for secondary ureteropelvic junction obstruction.

ABSTRACTPurpose: Laparoscopic pyeloplasty has become a viable option for the treatment of select patients with primary ureteropelvic junction obstruction with success rates similar to those of open surgery. However, little has been written on the application of this technique for secondary ureteropelvic junction obstruction. We report the largest series of secondary ureteropelvic junction obstruction managed by laparoscopic pyeloplasty.Materials and Methods: Between March 1994 and March 2001, 36 patients underwent laparoscopic transperitoneal pyeloplasty for secondary ureteropelvic junction obstruction. The patients had undergone an average of 1.3 ureteropelvic junction procedures (range 1 to 4) prior to presentation, including cutting balloon retrograde endopyelotomy in 28, antegrade endoscopic endopyelotomy in 7, retrograde endoscopic endopyelotomy in 4, retrograde balloon dilation in 4 and open pyeloplasty in 3. A preoperative diagnosis of recurrent obstruction was confirmed by renal scan in 31 cases, ...
A MODERN CONDITION MONITORING AND GAS TURBINE CONTROL SYSTEM

For plants with multiple gas turbines, a second generation integrated plant condition monitoring and control system combines prime mover and driven load controls with process controls for the balance of plant. Projected applications include electric power generation, cogeneration, combined cycle plants, and gas compression plants. The system offers redundant distributed control, with diagnostics, repair, and return to original fault tolerance levels. This forms the basis for projections of high control availability. Two data highways drastically reduce plant wiring while improving availability of communications. Color graphic plots of any parameter can be displayed, along with analysis of the condition of the plant components. The system can interface with dispatching telemetery systems.Copyright © 1984 by ASME
The adjustable tension-free vaginal tape—obturator

A 59-year-old woman presented with stress urinary incontinence, had adjustment of tension-free vaginal tape–obturator (TVT-O) performed using a method that does not require lateral dissection, after a failed TVT-O. Despite having TVT-O tape erosion, she has remained continent for a period of 24 months. The case demonstrates an effective and simple method of TVT-O tape readjustment.
A numerical analysis of the resonant states of quantum well and superlattice devices

Abstract A numerical method is presented that is shown to be useful in calculating the resonant states associated with quantum well and superlattice devices by determining the confined energy states. The method represents the time-independent Schrodinger equation as a series of simultaneous algebraic equations using the finite element technique. The eigenvalues of these equations are then found using a Sturm sequence, and the resonant wave functions are then subsequently calculated using a reverse iteration method containing orthogonality constraints. This approach was chosen for its computational efficiency. Simulations of specific devices are presented and compared with published experimental values.
A self-stabilizing algorithm to synchronize digital clocks in a distributed system

Abstract We have proposed a self-stabilizing algorithm to synchronize multiple digital clocks in a distributed system; whenever any of the clock values gets out of synchronization for any reason, the algorithm is automatically invoked and the system is brought back to a legitimate state in finite time.
Leaf anatomical changes in Populus trichocarpa, Quercus rubra, Pseudotsuga menziesii and Pinus ponderosa exposed to enhanced ultraviolet-B radiation

rLeaf anatomical characteristics are important in determining the degree of injury sustained when plants are exposed to natural and enhanced levels of ultraviolet-B (UV-B) radiation (280-320 nm). The degree to which leaf anatomy can adapt to the increasing levels of UV-B radiation reaching the earth's surface is poorly understood in most tree species. We examined four tree species, representing a wide range of leaf anatomical characteristics, to determine responses of leaf area, specific leaf weight, and leaf tissue parameters after exposure to ambient and enhanced levels of UV-B radiation, Seedlings were grown w in a greenhouse with photosynthetically active radiation of 39 mol m -2 day -1 and under one of three daily irradiances of biologically effective UV-B radiation (UV-B BE ) supplied for 10 h per day: (1) approximate ambient level received at Pullman, Washington on June 21 (1 x ): two times ambient (2 × ), or three times ambient (3 × ). We hypothesized the response of each species to UV-B radiation would be related to inherent anatomical differences. We found that the conifers responded anatomically to nearly an equal degree as the broad-leaved trees, but that different tissues were involved. Populus trichocarpa, an indeterminate broadleaf species, showed significantly thicker palisade parenchyma in recently mature leaves at the 3 × level and in older leaves under the 2 × level. In addition, individual leaf area was generally greater with increased UV-B irradiance. Quercus rubra, a semi-determinate broadleaf species, exhibited significantly thicker palisade parenchyma at the 2 × and 3 × levels as compared to controls. Psuedotsuga menziesii, an evergreen coniferous species with bifacially flattened needles, and Pinus ponderosa, an evergreen coniferous species with a complete hypodermis, showed no significant change in leaf area or specific leaf weight under enhanced UV-B radiation. Epidermal thickness was unchanged in P. menziesii. However. P. ponderosa increased the thickness and number of hypodermal layers produced, presumably decreasing penetration or UV-B radiation into the leaf. We concluded that differences in inherent leaf anatomy of the four species examined are important in the responses to enhanced levels of UV-B radiation.
Reactions of adamantanethione with Grignard reagents: there is no evidence of addition to the CS carbon

The reactions of adamantanethione (1) with several Grignard reagents (MeMgCl, n-BuMgCl, and t-BuMgCl) have been investigated. In contrast to analogous reactions with ketones, there is no evidence of addition to the CS carbon of 1. Rather, reaction of 1 with n-BuMgCl or t-BuMgCl affords 2-adamantanethiol as the major product along with minor amounts of sulfides and an episulfide. Reactions of 1 with MeMgCl are very slow and afford a variety of products as a result of secondary reactions.
Mechanisms Controlling Release of Colloids to Groundwater in a Southeastern Coastal Plain Aquifer Sand

The release of colloids from a shallow Southeastern Coastal Plain deposit, in response to treatment with solutions that perturbed electrostatic and cementitious associations among the clay-size constituents, suggested that these constituents are predominantly chemically bound within the interstitial matrix. Sediment-packed columns subjected to a sequence of high/low ionic strength solutions, acidic pH (2.6) solutions, and anionic surfactant solutions yielded undetectable colloid releases. Treatment with elevated pH (8.8) solutions and solutions containing phosphate resulted in mobilization of colloids only partially representative of the bulk matrix. Organic acids, which both (i) initiated dissolution of the amorphous iron oxyhydroxide intermediaries among kaolinite books and (ii) imparted negative charge to the iron oxyhydroxide surfaces to generate sufficiently repulsive forces among the juxtaposed matrix constituents, appeared to induce mobilization of colloids compositionally representative of the ent...
Utilization of Drug Treatment Programs by Methamphetamine Users: The Role of Social Stigma

We examined the link between drug use stigma and use of drug treatment services in a sample of 292 heterosexually identified, methamphetamine (meth) users. Participants who had ever been in treatme...
Reliability-based hybrid ARQ

A new hybrid automatic repeat request (ARQ) scheme that utilises reliability estimates generated by soft-input, soft-output (SISO) decoders is proposed. The proposed ARQ scheme transmits, additional information for the unreliable bits, and this information is used to perform additional decoding. Results are presented that show this ARQ technique can provide performance close to the channel capacity.
Free radical scavenger specifically prevents ischemic focal ventricular tachycardia.

Background Focal ventricular tachycardia (VT) in acute myocardial ischemia is closely related to triggered activity (TA), which may be blocked by scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS). Objective This study analyzed effects of acutely administered ROS scavenger-2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-N-oxyl (TEMPO) on VT in vivo and TA in vitro. Methods Forty-three alpha chloralose anesthetized dogs with coronary artery occlusion were studied. Three-dimensional activation mapping helped to locate the origin of focal or reentrant VT. TEMPO (30 mg/kg intravenously) or vehicle was given. Endocardium excised from the site of origin of VT was studied using standard microelectrode techniques and measures of ROS. Results Reentry and focal VT induction were both highly reproducible. TEMPO blocked focal VT in 6 of 11 dogs (P Conclusion TEMPO, a scavenger of ROS, prevented triggered activity associated with focal VT during myocardial ischemia in areas of increased ROS. Antioxidant therapy may play an important role in blockade of focal VT under the conditions of myocardial ischemia.
OAO observations of magnesium II emission in late-type stars

Stellar chromosphere characteristics from OAO observation of magnesium II emission in late type stars
Political position and social knowledge

The nature of social cognition - how we "know about" the social world - is one of the most deceptively obvious problems for sociology. Because we know what we know, we often think that we know how or why we know it. Here, we investigate one particular aspect of social cognition, namely, what we will call "political ideology" - that is, people's self-placement on a dimension on which persons can be arrayed from left to right. We focus on that understanding that is in some ways the "ur-form" of social cognition - our sense of how we stand by others in an implicit social formation whose meaning is totally relational. At the same time, these self-conceptions seem to be of the greatest importance for the development of the polity and of civil society itself. Our question is, when citizens develop such a "political ideology," what does this mean, and what do they do with it? We examine what citizens gain from their subjective placement on the dimension from liberalism to conservatism by using the results of a survey experiment that alters aspects of a hypothetical policy.
A Checklist of the Vascular Flora of Crenshaw County, Alabama

Abstract The vascular flora of Crenshaw County, Alabama, was surveyed from 1987 to 2010. A total of 1171 taxa (species and hybrids) in 565 genera from 150 families are reported. Twenty-five taxa represented by herbarium specimens from Crenshaw County were not re-collected during this study. The Inventory List of Rare, Threatened and Endangered Plants, Animals and Natural Communities of Alabama as compiled by the Alabama Natural Heritage Program contains 23 of the species collected. Approximately 18 percent of the flora (213 species), are considered non-indigenous. Families with the largest number of taxa were Asteraceae (158), Poaceae (135), Fabaceae (87), Cyperaceae (61), Rosaceae (35) and Liliaceae (31).
Diffusion control in radiation graft polymerization with varying dependence of rate on monomer concentration

The quantitative effect of diffusion control on the rate of radiation-initiated graft polymerization has been studied theoretically for systems in which the diffusion-free reaction may show various dependencies of rate on monomer concentration other than the usual first-order dependence. The study is also very general in that it can be applied to systems involving a variety of different modes of initiation and termination. Whether the grafting process is diffusion-free or diffusion-controlled has been analyzed in terms of the interaction of the initiation rate Ri, the propagation and termination rate constants kp and kt, the equilibrium solubility M of the monomer in the polymer, the polymer film thickness L, the diffusivity D of the monomer in the polymer, and the diffusion-free kinetic order of dependence v of the grafting rate on monomer concentration. The dependence of the grafting rate for both the diffusion-free and diffusion-controlled reactions on these parameters is expressed both by mathematical experssions and graphically. Diffusion control is shown to occur at a critical value of the parameter A which is proportional to L(kpRiw/ktzD)1/2M(e−1)/2 where w, z, and v have different values depending on the specific modes of initiation, propagation and termination in a particular grafting system. The grafting rate is shown to vary with the value of A according to specific mathematical expressions. In comparing diffusion-free to diffusion-controlled reaction, it is shown that the former is independent of L and D while the latter is directly dependent on L and inversely on D1/2. Further, the change from diffusion-free to diffusion-controlled reaction involves a change in the dependence of rate on monomer from v-order to [(v − 1)/2]-order. The nonsteady-state as well as the steady-state reaction rates have been analyzed.
Lesbians: Social and Economic Situation

This article is a revision of the previous edition article by M.V.L. Badgett, volume 13, pp. 8725–8729, © 2001, Elsevier Ltd.
Teaching And Application In Introductory Finance: Using An Excel-Based Case Study As A Pedagogical Tool

Recognizing the importance of practical application to a comprehensive business education, teaching, and application are integrated in the finance curriculum by introducing an Excel-based case study in the introductory finance course. The case brings together the theoretical concepts of capital budgeting analysis and the practical business tool of spreadsheet software for students to work in groups to analyze the proposed project and decide whether to accept it.
AGU's Data Policy: History and Context

Modern science is driven by data, and the implications are many: The ability to collect data more broadly and efficiently and to reuse and mine data in new ways is leading directly to new discovery, research, and understanding.
Formation of 8 nm TiO2 nanotubes on a three dimensional electrode for enhanced photoelectrochemical reaction

Abstract We report here a successful fabrication of a 3-D photoelectrode configuration having hydrothermally formed TiO2 nanotubes on parallel Ti fins. The Ti fin arrays were assembled by simple and facile spot welding of alternately tall and short Ti foil assembly, which provides significantly increased electrode surface area. A tangled forest of nanotubes of TiO2 was produced on each of the Ti surface on all parallel and straight fin arrays. UV absorption spectra of the TiO2 nanotubes indicate that the TiO2 nanotubes are photo-excited due to their photocatalytic activities, and the charge separation is accomplished by the transfer of photoexcited electrons from the TiO2 nanotubes to the Ti metallic substrate, thereby performing photoelectrochemical reaction. By virtue of substantially increased surface area with the 3-D photoelectrode, significantly increased (by ∼300%) photocurrent density was obtained with the photocatalysis of TiO2 nanotubes in combination with enhanced electrical current path between conducting Ti fin substrates and the photocatalytic TiO2 on the fin surface. Such 3-D straight fin array structures fabricated by a simple and versatile method can be useful as a robust electrode for hydrogen generation by water splitting, CO oxidation and various other types of photocatalysts and photovoltaic cells.
VISUAL BACKGROUND COMPLEXITY FACILITATES THE EVOLUTION OF CAMOUFLAGE

Cryptic animal coloration or camouflage is an adaptation that decreases the risk of detection. The study of the evolution of camouflage has strongly emphasized the minimization of visual information that predators receive from prey, by means of background matching. However, the evolutionary effects of information processing after its reception have been virtually ignored. I constructed a model that employs an artificial neural network and simulates the evolution of prey coloration in a visually complex and simple habitat. The model suggests: (1) the difficulty of a detection task is related to the visual complexity of the habitat; (2) it is easier to decrease the risk of detection by the means of camouflage in a visually complex habitat; (3) selection on camouflage can exploit limitations in predators information processing; and (4) there are shortcomings in using the degree of background matching as the measure of camouflage.
A Genetic Screen for Ribosomal DNA Silencing Defects Identifies Multiple DNA Replication and Chromatin-Modulating Factors

Transcriptional silencing in Saccharomyces cerevisiae occurs at several genetic loci, including the ribosomal DNA (rDNA). Silencing at telomeres (telomere position effect [TPE]) and the cryptic mating-type loci (HML and HMR) depends on the silent information regulator genes, SIR1, SIR2, SIR3, and SIR4. However, silencing of polymerase II-transcribed reporter genes integrated within the rDNA locus (rDNA silencing) requires only SIR2. The mechanism of rDNA silencing is therefore distinct from TPE and HM silencing. Few genes other than SIR2 have so far been linked to the rDNA silencing process. To identify additional non-Sir factors that affect rDNA silencing, we performed a genetic screen designed to isolate mutations which alter the expression of reporter genes integrated within the rDNA. We isolated two classes of mutants: those with a loss of rDNA silencing (lrs) phenotype and those with an increased rDNA silencing (irs) phenotype. Using transposon mutagenesis, lrs mutants were found in 11 different genes, and irs mutants were found in 22 different genes. Surprisingly, we did not isolate any genes involved in rRNA transcription. Instead, multiple genes associated with DNA replication and modulation of chromatin structure were isolated. We describe these two gene classes, and two previously uncharacterized genes, LRS4 and IRS4. Further characterization of the lrs and irs mutants revealed that many had alterations in rDNA chromatin structure. Several lrs mutants, including those in the cdc17 and rfc1 genes, caused lengthened telomeres, consistent with the hypothesis that telomere length modulates rDNA silencing. Mutations in the HDB (RPD3) histone deacetylase complex paradoxically increased rDNA silencing by a SIR2-dependent, SIR3-independent mechanism. Mutations in rpd3 also restored mating competence selectively to sir3Δ MATα strains, suggesting restoration of silencing at HMR in a sir3 mutant background.
Ecohydrogeophysics at the Edwards Aquifer: insights from Polarimetric ground‐penetrating radar

Three-dimensional multicomponent ground-penetrating radar (GPR) reflection data and horizontal GPR transmission profiles were acquired and analyzed to better understand the interaction of vegetation with subsurface flow conduits at a hydrologic experimentation site. Previous researchers conducted a set of shallow ( Juniperus ashei brush control on the local hydrology. Tracer experiments showed a high degree of variability in tracer recovery, advection speed and concentration depending on the location of the application of the tracer. Both 3D multicomponent GPR reflection images and coherency and inversion of GPR horizontal transmission profiles were utilized to identify the main conduits of flow within the experimentation site in order to explain the observations of the experiments. The 3D multicomponent GPR and coherency images revealed that the most obvious potential conduits run nearly parallel with the observation trench. Inversions of the horizontal transmission profiles indicate that some conduits are filled with soil while others have no fill. This information helps explain the high spatiotemporal variability observed in the tracer data. Additionally, the GPR and hydrologic experiments suggest that Juniperus ashei significantly impacts infiltration by redirecting flow towards its roots occupying fractures within the rock. This study demonstrates that GPR provides a noninvasive tool that can improve future subsurface ecohydrologic experimentation.
Contributions of the Largely Transonic Dynamics Tunnel to Rotorcraft Technology and Development

A historical account of the contributions of the Langley Transonic Dynamics Tunnel (TDT) to rotorcraft technology and development since the tunnel''s inception in 1960 is presented. The paper begins with a summary of the major characteristics of the TDT and a description of the unique capability offered by the TDT for testing aeroleastic models by virtue of its heavy gas test medium. This is followed by some remarks on the role played by scale models in the design and development of rotorcraft vehicles and review of the basis scaling relationships important for designing and building dynamics aeroelastic models of rotorcrat vehicles for testing in the TDT. Chronological accounts of helicopter and tiltrotor research conducted in the TDT are then described in separate sections. The discussions include a description of the various models employed, the specific objectives of the tests, and illustrative results.
Wafer level fabrication of high performance MEMS using bonded and thinned bulk piezoelectric substrates

We report a batch-mode fabrication technology for integration of bulk piezoelectric materials into MEMS devices, and test results of high-performance out-of-plane piezoelectric actuators fabricated with this technology. Low-temperature (200°C), reliable AuIn and Parylene bonding of PZT wafers/dies on Si wafers is achieved, and lapping is used to obtain ≪10µm PZT films. Conservation of the piezoelectric properties is confirmed with a hysteresis measurement. Additionally, square and circular shaped PZT diaphragms with 4mm×4mm, 2mm×2mm, and 1mm×1mm sizes operating in the d31-mode are fabricated with a 2-mask fabrication process. Greater than 12µm peak-to-peak deflection is obtained by actuation of a 1mm2 diaphragm at resonance (110.9kHz) with a power consumption of ≪7mW.
Benzocyclobutene (BCB) based intracortical neural implant

A novel structure for chronically implantable cortical electrodes using new Benzocyclobutene (BCB) bio-polymer was devised, which provides both flexibility for micro-motion compliance between brain tissues and skull and stiffness for better surgical handling. BCB is very attractive polymer for stable long-term implant function, because it has flexibility, biocompatibility, low moisture uptake (<0.2 wt%), and low dielectric constant (/spl sim/2.6). For easy operation during surgical insertion, a 5/spl sim/10/spl mu/m thick silicon backbone layer is attached to the desired region of the electrode to increase the stiffness. It is then followed by 1 mm of flexible part of the electrode without silicon backbone layer designed to absorb stress from any micro-motion between the brain tissue and the electrode. The fabricated implants have tri-shanks with 5 recording sites (20x20/spl mu/m) and 2 vias (40x40/spl mu/m) on each shank. BCB electrodes with 5/spl mu/m and 10/spl mu/m thick backbone silicon penetrated pia of rat brain without buckling.
Computer-Aided Feedback of Surgical Knot Tying Using Optical Tracking

Background Quantifying the information content of hand motion during surgical knot tying using information theory based entropy measures enables the comparison of different groups: novice and expert. We hypothesized that complexity would differ between the 2 groups and predicted based on motor learning models that complexity/information would reduce with increased expertise. Methods Six degrees of freedom hand-motion data during surgical knot tying were acquired using an infrared optical hand tracking device. Multiple data samples were obtained from 2 groups: novice (third-year medical students) and expert (attending surgeons). After preprocessing each knot tying data sample into a binary symbolic time series, 3 nonlinear complexity measures were calculated: Lempel Ziv complexity, Shannon entropy, and Renyi entropy. The Shannon and Renyi entropies were calculated using a word length of 6. A Student t test was used to test whether the 2 groups were from the same population when using these entropy measures, applying a p value of 0.05 to reject the null hypothesis. Results The expert surgeons were found to have less complex patterns of motion compared with the novice group. This finding was statistically significant using Lempel Ziv complexity (p = 0.004), Shannon entropy (p = 0.006), and Renyi entropy with q = 2 (p = 0.006). Using Renyi entropy with q = 0.5, the 2 groups were not significantly different (p = 0.26). Conclusions The ability to separate novice from expert populations during surgical knot tying using information theory entropy measures could form the basis of a low-cost educational tool to provide feedback and to assess skill acquisition using low-fidelity bench models.
The history of liquid-crystal displays

The modem history of liquid crystals has been dominated by the development of electronic displays. These developments began in 1964, when Heilmeier of RCA Laboratories discovered the guest-host mode and the dynamic-scattering mode. He thought a wall-sized flat-panel color TV was just around the corner From that point on, twisted-nematic (TN) mode, super TN mode, amorphous-Si field-effect transistor and room-temperature liquid crystals were developed. In the beginning, liquid-crystal displays (LCDs) were limited to niche applications such as small-size displays for digital watches, pocket calculators, and small handheld devices. That all changed with the development of the notebook computer industry. In 1988, Washizuka et al. of Sharp Corporation demonstrated an active-matrix full-color full-motion 14-in display using a thin-film-transistor array. The electronics industries now recognized that Heilmeier's 25-year dream of a wall-hanging television had become reality. LCDs could be used to replace existing cathode ray tubes. Through the cooperation and competition of many electronics giants, the LCD industry was firmly established.
Beliefs about the social roles and capabilities of computing technology: development of the computing technology continuum of perspective

Using data from 1216 students and professionals, this research developed a new construct focusing on beliefs about the social role and capabilities of computing technology, the computing technology continuum of perspective (CP). Results indicated that individuals have different beliefs about the social role and capabilities of computing technology along four dimensions, including beliefs about: 1) intelligence; 2) socialness; 3) control; 4) control of rights. Results further indicated that an individual's CP was related to gender, experience with computers, as well as locus of control, self-esteem, neuroticism and general computer self-efficacy. Implications are drawn for future research investigating various beliefs about the social role and capabilities of computing technology.
Is the Study of Lived Religion Irrelevant to the World We Live in? Special Presidential Plenary Address, Society for the Scientific Study of Religion, Salt Lake City, November 2, 2002

The question that frames (or haunts) this evening's discussion is whether the work of those of us who study religious practice or "lived religion" is irrelevant for understanding religion in broader social and political contexts than the intimate, local, and closely-grained ones that generally occupy us-or to put this even more harshly: Is it irrelevant for understanding and responding to urgent global, political situations of great consequence? This issue was raised for me with special force in a conversation earlier this year with an old friend and colleague about the escalating violence in Israel. The situation there was declining into horror. The paper that morning was filled with images of a young Palestinian suicide bomber and the incongruity between her fresh and smiling face and the terrible violence of her action shocked and saddened us. My friend is a distinguished political scientist with a deep personal and professional concern for the politics and history of the Middle East; both of us hoped for a just peace in Israel. The immediate question was how to understand what led a young woman to become a martyr (as some said) or a murderer (according to others). How do we-"we" here being scholars of culture generally, religion in particular, in North American universities-talk about such a thing? The terrible events of September 11, 2001, had given particular urgency to the questions. References to something called "Islam," I said to my friend, explained nothing, and the political violence in the region (however one interpreted it) was a necessary but not sufficient cause of suicide bombings. It seemed to me simply from reading accounts in the papers that what immediately mattered in the lives of suicide bombers was not commitment to an unspecific "Islam" but the circles of friends and kin among whom they lived, the memories they held (their own or those they borrowed or inherited from others), their sense of their place in their immediate world (meaning work and school, friends and clubs), the stories they were told by relatives they loved, bonds of commitment and loyalty to particular friends and kin. "Islam" mattered too, of course, not as a set of authoritative texts or doctrines, but rather as it was discussed and practiced, inflected and constituted within these bonds of friendship, family, and memory, within the worlds of work and school-"Islam" as it was imagined and reimagined in relation to all the other things that people imagine, a thoroughly local Islam, immersed in and responsive to local condition and circumstances.
Amines and peptides in the brain of the American lobster: immunocytochemical localization patterns and implications for brain function

The distributions of serotonin- (5HT-), substance P- (SP-), small cardioactive peptideb- (SCPb-), and histamine- (HA-) like immunoreactivities were examined in the adult lobster supraesophageal ganglion. Vibratome sections were labeled using avidin-biotin-peroxidase immunocytochemical methods. The localization patterns for each substance were assessed in 21 regions within the median protocerebrum, deutocerebrum, and tritocerebrum. Each immunoreactivity has a unique distribution within the brain; however, most regions are immunoreactive for more than one neurotransmitter. Of particular interest are SP-immunoreactive protocerebral neurons that contact olfactory projection neurons and appear homologous to those found in other crustaceans. Regional differences in immunolabeling within the deutocerebral olfactory and accessory lobes suggest that specific areas within individual olfactory lobe glomeruli serve distinct functions in olfactory processing, and that subpopulations of accessory lobe glomeruli are innervated by different groups of neurons. This detailed comparison of the labeling patterns also has allowed us to define the anatomical connectivity between several cell body clusters, fiber tracts, and neuropil areas in the lobster brain.
An Initial Analysis of 85 Kr Production and Dispersion from Reprocessing in India and Pakistan

Reprocessing of nuclear reactor spent fuel to recover plutonium is accompanied by release of krypton-85 ( 85 Kr), a fission product. Monitoring for 85 Kr might form a part of the verification regime of a possible fissile material cut-off treaty and, in the interim, a South Asian moratorium on reprocessing for military and civilian plutonium. Estimates are made of plutonium and 85 Kr generated in the spent fuel of India's CIRUS and Dhruva plutonium production reactors, and Pakistan's Khushab reactor, and of the release of 85 Kr from subsequent reprocessing activities at India's Trombay reprocessing plant and Pakistan's facility at Nilore. The reprocessing of nuclear power reactor spent fuel at India's Tarapur and Kalpakkam facilities is also examined since India reportedly conducted a nuclear weapons test in May 1998 using non-weapons grade plutonium. The atmospheric dispersion of krypton from reprocessing activities in South Asia is modeled using both a simple Gaussian plume model and a more sophisticated...
Characterization of nanocomposite laminates fabricated from aqueous dispersion of nanoclay

Preparation of E-glass/waterborne epoxy prepregs containing natural nanoclay and properties of their composites are presented. Prepregs were prepared by wetting randomly oriented, chopped glass fiber preforms with aqueous dispersion of EpiRez 3522-W-60 resin, dicyandiamide, 2-methylimidazole and natural nanoclay (Cloisite 1 Na þ ). The nanoclay content of the aqueous dispersion was adjusted to yield final nanoclay contents of 0, 1, 2, and 4 wt%, whereas the glass fiber content is kept constant at 47 wt%. These prepregs were then used to fabricate disk-shaped composite samples by APA2000 rheometer. Composite samples were tested for interlaminar shear strength, flexural stiffness, and glass transition temperature. The flexural stiffness was observed to increase by more than 26% over the range of nanoclay loading, despite a 13% decrease in interlaminar shear strength. Similarly, glass transition temperature increased from 898 Ct o above 948C for the samples comprising 4 wt% nanoclay. X-ray diffraction analyses indicated 48% increase in the gallery spacing suggesting strong intercalation of the nanoclay platelets by the epoxy matrix. Microstructural observations of the fracture surfaces and polished surfaces show significant differences in the matrix topology and fiber to matrix adhesion. The composites with higher nanoclay content depict uniform and submicron surface features implying homogenous dispersion of nanoclay. POLYM. COMPOS., 31:620–629, 2010. a 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Significant protection from infection and AIDS progression after gastrointestinal and oral vaccinations, respectively, with a SIV DNA/rMVA vaccine

Results Only N vaccination induced a significant increase in plasma SIV-IgG titers. Significantly higher systemic, rectal and vaginal SIV-specific T-cell responses were detected in the oral group during the immunization. The median number of challenges required to become infected was significantly higher in the GI group (32; 16 for O, 12 for V, 9 for N, 11 for controls). Repeated SIV exposure expanded vaginal anti-SIV T-cells in some of the animals. Seven vaccinated RM (3 in the O, 3 in the N and 1 in the GI group) suppressed the viremia after the initial infection peak and maintained it undetectable over the course of the trial. Immunized, infected animals had significantly lower levels of systemic T-cell immune activation, better preservation of CD4+ central memory and a4b7high+ CD4+ T-cells, with consequent better protection from AIDS. However a lower protection from AIDS progression was observed in the GI group compared to the other vaccinated RM, with a median survival of 24 weeks. A significantly higher loss of CD4+ CM T-cells, detected early on in this group, correctly predicted its poor long-term outcome.
Acute respiratory distress syndrome: Shifting the emphasis from treatment to prevention

Purpose of reviewAlthough results from clinical trials have advanced the treatment of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), mortality remains high. More recently, focus has shifted from treatment of ARDS to early identification and prevention in at-risk populations.Recent findingsThere have be
Geometric optimization andDP-completeness

In this paper we show a number of natural geometric optimization problems in the plane to becomplete for a classDP. The classDp contains both NP and Co-NP and is contained in Δ2P=PNP. Completeness inDp is exhibited under many-one and positive reductions. Further anOptP(O(logn)) result is also obtained for some of these optimization problems.
Abstract 239: p53 Protects Cardiac Stem Cells From the Toxic Effects of Chemotherapy and Controls their Fate

Doxorubicin (DOXO) causes dilated cardiomyopathy and heart failure. We have documented previously that DOXO-mediated cardiotoxicity is dictated by functional alterations of cardiac stem cells (CSCs). DOXO-induced myopathy was coupled with a reduction in CSC number due to increased death, inhibition of proliferation, and senescence. We raised the possibility that survival and growth of CSCs following DOXO treatment may be enhanced by modulating the intracellular level of p53, which plays a critical role in the determination of stem cell fate. For this purpose, transgenic mice carrying an additional p53 allele (Sp53) were studied. With respect to wild-type mice (WT), CSCs isolated from Sp53 mice (Sp53-CSCs) showed increased apoptosis with accumulation of the pro-apoptotic p53 targets BAX, PUMA and Pidd. Conversely, the expression of p21Cip1, a cell cycle inhibitor and inducer of cell senescence, was lower in Sp53-CSCs than WT cells. Upon DOXO treatment, Sp53-CSCs exhibited accelerated onset of apoptosis. However, viable Sp53-CSCs showed enhanced formation of DNA damage response foci, indicative of a very efficient DNA repair mechanism. Following removal of DOXO, Sp53-CSCs re-entered the cell cycle and divided, while WT cells continued to die by apoptosis or became senescent. The response of WT-CSCs to DOXO involved the pro-apoptotic Bcl2 family member Noxa and the senescence-associated protein p16INK4a. In contrast, exposure of Sp53-CSCs to DOXO provoked pulses of p53 expression, which favored sustained upregulation of Mdm2. Mdm2 antagonized the inhibitory effect of p53 on cell growth and prevented apoptosis. Ultimately, Sp53-CSCs showed accumulation of PCNA, which is required for DNA repair and synthesis. Importantly, IGF-1 release was higher in Sp53-CSCs, promoting their replication through an autocrine-paracrine mechanism. Collectively, our data demonstrate that changes in the pattern of p53 expression have beneficial effects on CSCs by amplifying the DNA repair response, facilitating the clearance of cells with non-repairable DNA damage, and enabling the proliferation of cells in which DNA lesions are effectively removed. Thus, targeting p53 expression in CSCs may protect the heart from the toxic effects of chemotherapy.
Variable Impedance Control - A Reinforcement Learning Approach

One of the hallmarks of the performance, versatility, and robustness of biological motor control is the ability to adapt the impedance of the overall biomechanical system to different task requirements and stochastic disturbances. A transfer of this principle to robotics is desirable, for instance to enable robots to work robustly and safely in everyday human environments. It is, however, not trivial to derive variable impedance controllers for practical high DOF robotic tasks. In this contribution, we ac- complish such gain scheduling with a reinforcement learning ap- proach algorithm, PI 2 (Policy Improvement with Path Integrals). PI 2 is a model-free, sampling based learning method derived from first principles of optimal control. The PI 2 algorithm requires no tuning of algorithmic parameters besides the exploration noise. The designer can thus fully focus on cost function design to specify the task. From the viewpoint of robotics, a particular useful property of PI 2 is that it can scale to problems of many DOFs, so that RL on real robotic systems becomes feasible. We sketch the PI 2 algorithm and its theoretical properties, and how it is applied to gain scheduling. We evaluate our approach by presenting results on two different simulated robotic systems, a 3-DOF Phantom Premium Robot and a 6-DOF Kuka Lightweight Robot. We investigate tasks where the optimal strategy requires both tuning of the impedance of the end-effector, and tuning of a reference trajectory. The results show that we can use path integral based RL not only for planning but also to derive variable gain feedback controllers in realistic scenarios. Thus, the power of variable impedance control is made available to a wide variety of robotic systems and practical applications. I. INTRODUCTION
Additions to the herpetofauna of Syria

Abstract New information on the herpetofauna of Syria is provided, based on a collection made during a field trip from the Natural History Museum of Crete (NHMC) in April 1999. We collected 391 specimens of 43 species at 30 different localities. The results expand our knowledge of the distribution of several species. The systematic position of four taxa (Rana bedriagae, Ptyodactylus sp., Lacerta kultzeri, Mabuya aurata) is discussed in the light of recent revisions of the Syrian herpetofauna.