cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A minimum-order structure for fixed-point digital filters

The approximation and optimal implementation of a digital filter with fixed-point arithmetic are investigated. A minimum-order structure is derived which minimizes an upper bound error due to the order approximation and output round-off noise. It is found that the minimum-order structure exhibits some favorable properties, such as absence of limit cycle and robustness of the filter's constant coefficients. A numerical example is presented to illustrate the proposed design technique. >
Backdrivable periodic finger joint synergies to unscrew and screw objects using human observations applied to a dexterous robotic hand

The video shows the complex task of unscrewing and screwing a threaded cap with a dexterous anthropomorphic robotic hand. To that end, human motion profiles of nine test subjects were recorded using the CyberGlove II and the data were analyzed for unscrewing and screwing a bottle cap. Results showed that the periodic motions exhibited by the finger joints shared a common frequency for each subject, but differed in amplitude and phase. The unscrewing data appears highly similar to the mirror image of the screwing data. This implies that the screwing motions can be backdriven to produce the unscrewing motion and vice versa. A forward loop (FL) in time implies an increment in the time vector, which starts from zero and ends at some point resulting to unscrew the bottle cap. A reverse loop (RL) is produced by a decrement in time and results in screwing the bottle cap. From the gathered data, a set of sinusoidal trajectories were developed to approximate this motion for a robotic hand.
Using shaped phase-thresholds for detecting moving targets in multiple-channel SAR

The authors have developed a technique for detecting moving surface targets in a single frame of short-duration multi-channel SAR image using phase interferometry. For a pixel to be associated with a moving target, we require it to exceed both a magnitude threshold in the SAR image and a phase threshold in the corresponding interferometric phase image. Here we show that a magnitude-dependent interferometric phase threshold, i.e., a shaped phase threshold, is a better choice than a constant phase threshold. In addition, we show that the interferometric phase reference plane needed for checking deviations, when computed from the geometry alone, provides superior detection performance over an interferometric phase plane estimated from the data. In this paper, we present results using airborne SAR data.
Alcohol selectively attenuates stress-induced c-fos expression in rat hippocampus

The ability of ethyl alcohol to modify responses to stress has been well documented (cf. Pohorecky, 1990). However, the structural substrate mediating these effects of alcohol remains undefined. Using immediate early gene (IEG) expression in the brain as a marker of altered neuronal response, we investigated the effect of acute alcohol exposure on the activity of brain regions of rats exposed to 15 min of restraint stress. Immunocytochemical localization c-Fos protein demonstrated that restraint stress led to an induction of c-Fos expression in several brain structures including cingulate and piriform cortex, cortico-amygdaloid and hippocampo-amygdaloid transition zones, hippocampus, hypothalamus, supramammillary nucleus, and centromedial nucleus of thalamus. An intraperitoneal injection of 2 g/kg alcohol prior to stress decreased c-Fos expression in several but not all of these structures. In particular, alcohol strongly attenuated the stress- induced expression of c-Fos in hippocampus and cingulate cortex. Using slot-blot hybridization, significant induction of c-fos mRNA after restraint stress was demonstrated both in hippocampus and cortex, but prior alcohol exposure specifically attenuated c-fos induction only in the hippocampus. The response of c-fos mRNA expression to stress and alcohol differed from the effects on jun-B, c-jun and jun-D mRNA levels. Perhaps surprisingly, acute exposure to alcohol in otherwise unstressed rats did not induce significant changes in expression of IEGs in comparison to control (saline-injected) animals even with doses sufficient to elevate plasma corticosterone. In summary, these studies demonstrate a selective sensitivity of stress-induced activity of neurons of hippocampus and cingulate cortex to acute alcohol exposure.
Synthesis, Characterization and Cleavage of Linear Polymers Attached to Silica Nanoparticles Formed Using Thiol-acrylate Conjugate Addition Reactions.

This study investigates the formation of linear polymer grafts using thiol-acrylate conjugate addition reactions on nanoparticle surfaces. Silica nanoparticles were first modified with an amine functionality, followed by the attachment of a photocleavable acrylate. Dithiol-diacrylate films were attached to the particles through the surface acrylate groups at various stoichiometric ratios of thiol to acrylate by conducting amine-catalyzed conjugate addition polymerizations. The particles were then exposed to UV light to release the grafted polymer by photocleavage. The cleaved, grafted polymers were analyzed using infrared spectroscopy (IR) and gel permeation chromatography (GPC) and compared to polymers formed in the bulk, which remained unattached to the particles. The measured number and weight average molecular weights were similar for both polymer types within experimental error and increased from 2000 to 5000 g/mol and 4000 to 10000 g/mol, respectively, as the ratio of limiting to excess functionality increased from 0.8 to 1. Both number and weight average molecular weights followed the trend of step growth polymers with the highest molecular weight achieved for stoichiometric monomeric mixtures. Surface coverage of the nanoparticles was estimated using the molecular weight and thermogravimetric data and was found to be uniform (∼0.15chains/nm2) irrespective of the stoichiometry of the reacting monomers.
Allografts in Articular Cartilage Repair

Hyaline articular cartilage is an avascular and insensate tissue with a distinct structural organization, which provides a low-friction and wear-resistant interface for weight-bearing surface articulation in diarthrodial joints. Ideally, articular cartilage is maintained in homeostasis over the lifetime of an individual, with its biomechanical properties inherently suited to transmit a variety of physiologic loads through a functional range of motion. However, in the skeletally mature individual, articular cartilage does not heal effectively when injured. Although several restorative options for biomimetic replacement in acquired articular cartilage defects do exist, fresh osteochondral allografting currently remains the only technique that restores anatomically appropriate, mature hyaline cartilage in large articular defects. The fundamental paradigm of fresh osteochondral allografting is the transplantation of mature orthotopic hyaline cartilage, with viable chondrocytes that survive hypothermic storage and subsequent transplantation while maintaining their metabolic activity and sustaining the surrounding collagen matrix. Fresh osteochondral allografts have application in the treatment of a wide spectrum of articular pathology, particularly conditions that include both an osseous and a chondral component. The surgical procedure for femoral condyle lesions is straightforward but demands precision to achieve reproducible results and to minimize early graft failures related to surgical technique. As with other cartilage-restorative procedures, the indications for use of fresh osteochondral allografts are still being expanded. Many clinical and basic scientific studies support the theoretical foundation and efficacy of small fragment allografting, although more scientific validation of empirical clinical practice is still needed.
Lanthanide‐Catalyst‐Mediated Tandem Double Intramolecular Hydroalkoxylation/Cyclization of Dialkynyl Dialcohols: Scope and Mechanism

Lanthanide-organic complexes of the general type [Ln{N-(SiMe 3 ) 2 } 3 ] (Ln=La, Sm, Y, Lu) serve as effective precatalysts for the rapid, exo-selective, and highly regioselective tandem double intramolecular hydroalkoxylation/cyclization of primary and secondary dialkynyl dialcohols to yield the corresponding bi-exocyclic enol ethers. Conversions are highly selective with products distinctly different from those generally produced by conventional transition metal or other catalysts, and the turnover frequencies with some substrates are too large to determine accurately. The rates of terminal alkynl alcohol hydroalkoxylation/cyclization are significantly more rapid than those of internal alkynyl alcohols, arguing that steric demands dominate the cyclization transition state. The hydro-alkoxylation/cyclizations of internal dialkynyl dialcohols afford excellent E selectivity. The rate law for dialkynyl dialcohol hydroalkoxylation/cyclization is first-order in [catalyst] and zero-order in [alkynyl alcohol], as is observed for the organolanthanide-catalyzed hydroamination/cyclization of aminoalkenes, aminoalkynes, and aminoallenes, and the intramolecular single-step hydroalkoxylation/cyclization of alkynyl alcohols. An ROH/ ROD kinetic isotope effect of 0.82(0.02) is observed for the tandem double hydroalkoxylation/cyclization. These mechanistic data implicate turnover-limiting insertion of C-C unsaturation into the Ln-O bond, involving a highly organized transition state, with subsequent, rapid Ln-C protonolysis.
MicroRNA Expression in Chicken Embryos

MicroRNA (miRNA) are small single-stranded noncoding RNA that posttranscriptionally regulate gene expression. A major role of miRNA is the regulation of gene expression in developmental processes. In this study, we constructed a small RNA library from 11-d-old chick embryos and used this library to examine the miRNA expression profile of the embryos. This small RNA library was sequenced by using 454 Life Sciences pyrosequencing technology. A total of 10,466 sequences were obtained and annotated as either known chicken miRNA, miRNA that shared homology with other species, or novel miRNA. We identified the expression of 110 known chicken miRNA, 36 homologous chicken miRNA (previously unannotated in the chicken but conserved with miRNA from other species), and 14 novel chicken-specific miRNA not identified in any other species. We also demonstrated that some of the identified chicken embryonic miRNA are differentially expressed among the developing spleen, liver, or bursa. The current study demonstrates that a very diverse and dynamic set of miRNA is expressed in the embryonic chick at 11 d of incubation. The identification of miRNA present in the embryonic chicken will further aid in understanding the complexity of gene regulation during vertebrate development.
Sediment focusing creates 100-ka cycles in interplanetary dust accumulation on the Ontong Java Plateau

The accumulation of extraterrestrial 3 He, a tracer for interplanetary dust particles (IDPs), in sediments from the Ontong Java Plateau (OJP; western equatorial Pacific Ocean) has been shown previously to exhibit a regular cyclicity during the late Pleistocene, with a period of V100 ka. Those results have been interpreted to reflect periodic variability in the global accretion of IDPs that, in turn, has been linked to changes in the inclination of Earth’s orbit with respect to the invariable plane of the solar system. Here we show that the accumulation in OJP sediments of authigenic 230 Th, produced by radioactive decay of 234 U in seawater, exhibits a 100-ka cyclicity similar in phase and amplitude to that evident in the 3 He record. We interpret the similar patterns of 230 Th and 3 He accumulation to reflect a common origin within the ocean^climate system. Comparing spatial and temporal patterns of sediment accumulation against regional patterns of biological productivity and against the well-established pattern of CaCO3 dissolution in the deep Pacific Ocean leads to the further conclusion that a common 100-ka cycle in accumulation of biogenic, authigenic and extraterrestrial constituents in OJP sediments reflects the influence of climate-related changes in sediment focusing, rather than changes in the rate of production or supply of sedimentary constituents. 7 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
Capital requirements for the development of South and South-east Asia

Such a study pre-supposes the possibility as well as the fruitfulness of a regional approach and attributes common properties to the region as regards the economic structure. Any region can be dealt with in terms of averages and aggregates only in case the component parts are economically similar units and result in meaningful economic variables. Looked from this angle, the region exhibits common characteristics affecting the, extent as, well as the sequence of economic development, consisting of a large population, a low level of incomes, population pressure in agriculture, disguised unemployment, low productivity, dearth of capital, low savings and a slow rate of economic development.
A case of a traumatic chyle leak following an acute thoracic spine injury: successful resolution with strict dietary manipulation

Background Chylothorax is a rare form of pleural effusion that can be associated with both traumatic and non-traumatic causes. Thoracic duct ligation is often the treatment of choice in postsurgical patients; however the optimal treatment of this disease process after traumatic injury remains unclear [1]. We present a rare case of a thoracic duct injury secondary to a blunt thoracic spine fracture and subluxation which was successfully treated non-operatively.
Autoregressive estimation of complex eigenfrequencies in low frequency seismic spectra

Summary. The fact that a seismogram can be represented as an autoregressive (AR) time series and the use of Prony’s method enable us to obtain the complex frequencies from the poles of the corresponding AR process. A frequency- domain formulation which employs a time- domain tapering technique is devised so that spectral peaks can be analysed individually, or in small groups. Statistical analysis of the estimators and several examples from two recent earthquakes illustrate the method.
Understanding Autism: Parents, Doctors, and the History of a Disorder. By Chloe Silverman.

Discussions of autism have proliferated in recent years in academic and medical fields, as well as popular media. Chloe Silverman’s Understanding Autism: Parents, Doctors, and the History of a Diso...
Current sheets at low altitudes in the Martian magnetotail

[1] We present observations of 1116 current sheet crossings in the Martian magnetotail during one Martian year, as identified from magnetic field rotations measured by Mars Global Surveyor (MGS) at ∼400 km altitude and 2 am local time. Crossings are observed everywhere except above strong crustal fields, and many occur in clusters, with preferred locations varying as a function of season and IMF draping direction. Magnetic polarities are consistent with day-side IMF draping directions and a two-lobe induced magnetotail. Energetic “plasma sheet” electrons are often absent, implying that currents can be carried by ions or low-energy electrons, with thicknesses of <∼100 km arguing for electrons. The presence of a thin current sheet at low altitudes, with specific seasons and IMF directions favored for some geographic locations, implies that reconnection between crustal fields and the draped IMF may play an important role in its formation and location.
Integrating Climate Change into State and Regional Transportation Plans

This paper aims to advance the practice and application of transportation planning for state, regional, and local transportation planning agencies to address the relationship between transportation and climate change. The focus of the paper is on long-range planning documents as tools for climate change planning. Reviews included federal regulations and statutes that govern transportation planning as well as a sample of current planning documents from state departments of transportation (DOTs) and metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs). Interviews were conducted with four DOTs and eight MPOs that were incorporating climate change into long-range transportation plans. The text of federal statutes provides opportunities to link climate change considerations with transportation planning. The current practice in transportation plans varies widely by agency. Climate change can appear in the vision, goals, policies, strategies, trends and challenges, and performance measures of planning documents. Some plan...
Virtual electrode-induced reexcitation: A mechanism of defibrillation.

Abstract—Mechanisms of defibrillation remain poorly understood. Defibrillation success depends on the elimination of fibrillation without shock-induced arrhythmogenesis. We optically mapped selected epicardial regions of rabbit hearts (n=20) during shocks applied with the use of implantable defibrillator electrodes during the refractory period. Monophasic shocks resulted in virtual electrode polarization (VEP). Positive values of VEP resulted in a prolongation of the action potential duration, whereas negative polarization shortened the action potential duration, resulting in partial or complete recovery of the excitability. After a shock, new propagated wavefronts emerged at the boundary between the 2 regions and reexcited negatively polarized regions. Conduction velocity and maximum action potential upstroke rate of rise dV/dt max of shock-induced activation depended on the transmembrane potential at the end of the shock. Linear regression analysis showed that dV/dtmax of postshock activation reached 50...
Avian influenza in North and South America, 2002-2005

Abstract Between 2002 and 2005, three outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) occurred in the Americas: one outbreak in Chile (H7N3) in 2002, one outbreak in the United States (H5N2) in 2004, and one outbreak in Canada (H7N3) in 2004. The outbreak in Chile was limited to a large broiler breeder operation and a nearby turkey flock and represented the first outbreak of HPAI in that country. The outbreak of HPAI in the United States occurred in Texas and was limited to one premise where chickens were raised for sale in nearby live-bird markets. The outbreak in Canada was the largest of the three HPAI outbreaks, involving 42 premises and approximately 17 million birds in the Fraser Valley, British Columbia. In each of the HPAI outbreaks, the disease was successfully eradicated by depopulation of infected farms. All other reports of infections in poultry and isolations from wild bird species pertained to low pathogenicity avian influenza (LPAI) viruses. Animal Health Officials in Canada reported ...
Controlled Freezing of Twenty-three Container-grown Herbaceous Perennials

Twenty-three containerized herbaceous perennials were acclimated to ambient outdoor temperature and photoperiod until November 19, when they were moved into a greenhouse and held at 3C (37F) until February 15. At that time, plants were exposed for 30 minutes to a range of subzero temperatures, and returned to the greenhouse for forcing. Plants were rated for survival and salability following 6 weeks regrowth at 15C (59F), using a subjective scale of 1 to 5 (1 = worst, 5 = best, 3 and above considered salable). Of the 23 perennials studied, 15 survived after exposure to at least -8C (180, however, 40% of the species and cultivars surviving at this temperature sustained a level of injury which rendered them unsalable. Most plants were ratedialable at treatment temperatures 3 to 6 degrees warmer than their respective lowest survival temperatures (LST's). Phlox 'Chattahoochie', Phlox 'Morris Berd', and Tiarella 'Laird of Skye' remained salable after exposure to -1 1C (120. Campanula takesirnana, Heuchera americana 'Dales Strain', Penstemon fruticosus 'Purple Haze', Rosmarinus officinalis 'Arp', Tiarella 'Running Tapestry', and Tiarella cordifolia 'Slick Rock' remained salable after exposure to -8C (18F). Eroditim reichardii 'Roseum', Hebe macrocarpa 'Margaret', and Verbena 'Homestead Purple' remained salable after exposure to -5C (23F). Only the unfrozen controls of Houttuynia cordata 'Chameleon' and Thelypteris kunthii remained salable. Treatment means for Ceratostigma plumbaginoides were not significantly different and all 6 Hibiscus cultivars ('Blue River II', 'Disco Belle Pink', 'Disco Belle Rose Red', 'Disco Belle White', 'Lord Baltimore' and 'Southern Belle') failed to survive any of the temperature treatments. In general, plants showed a gradual decline in salability with decreasing temperatures.
A Laboratory Investigation of the Suspension, Transport, and Settling of Silver Carp Eggs Using Synthetic Surrogates

Asian carp eggs are semi-buoyant and must remain suspended in the water to survive, supported by the turbulence of the flow, until they hatch and develop the ability to swim. Analysis of the transport and dispersal patterns of Asian carp eggs will facilitate the development and implementation of control strategies to target the early life stages. Experimenting with Asian carp eggs is complicated due to practical issues of obtaining eggs in close proximity to experimental facilities and extensive handling of eggs tends to damage them. Herein, we describe laboratory experiments using styrene beads (4.85 mm diameter) as synthetic surrogate eggs to mimic the physical properties of water-hardened silver carp eggs. The first set of experiments was completed in a rectangular vertical column filled with salt water. The salinity of the water was adjusted in an iterative fashion to obtain a close approximation of the fall velocity of the styrene beads to the mean fall velocity of silver carp water-hardened eggs. The terminal fall velocity of synthetic eggs was measured using an image processing method. The second set of experiments was performed in a temperature-controlled recirculatory flume with a sediment bed. The flume was filled with salt water, and synthetic eggs were allowed to drift under different flow conditions. Drifting behavior, suspension conditions, and settling characteristics of synthetic eggs were observed. At high velocities, eggs were suspended and distributed through the water column. Eggs that touched the sediment bed were re-entrained by the flow. Eggs saltated when they touched the bed, especially at moderate velocities and with a relatively flat bed. At lower velocities, some settling of the eggs was observed. With lower velocities and a flat bed, eggs were trapped near the walls of the flume. When bedforms were present, eggs were trapped in the lee of the bedforms in addition to being trapped near the flume walls. Results of this research study provide insights about transport, suspension, and dispersion of silver carp eggs. The knowledge gained from this study is useful to characterize the critical hydrodynamic conditions of the flow at which surrogates for silver carp water-hardened eggs settle out of suspension, and provides insight into how eggs may interact with riverbed sediments and morphology.
Islam, Identity and Somali Refugees in South Africa

This paper examines Somali newcomers and their ‘place’ within the post-apartheid South African racial and socio-economic context. I focus on the role of religious networks that Somali refugee established with the Indian Muslim community and the significance of the concept of “Umma” or global Islamic brotherhood in Somali refugees’ livelihood strategizing and their entry to marginal township areas and informal settlements to dominate small businesses.
Hydrodiuril® (Merck Sharp & Dohme)

Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic and antihypertensive. Its diuretic action is due to its effect on the renal tubular mechanism of electrolyte reabsorption. The excretion of sodium and chloride occurs in approximately equal amounts and is often accompanied by a loss of potassium and bicarbonate. The mechanism of the antihypertensive action of the thiazides is unknown. Initially cardiac output falls and blood volume is diminished. With chronic therapy the cardiac output returns to normal and the peripheral vascular resistance falls.
1H magnetic resonance imaging of freezing and thawing in freeze-tolerant frogs

Proton magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the processes of freezing and thawing in the wood frog Rana sylvatica provided noninvasive and real-time analysis of the mode of ice propagation through the body of a freeze-tolerant vertebrate. MRI revealed a directional movement of ice from the exterior inward that required several hours to reach completion. Freezing in core organs such as liver, which produces and exports cryoprotectant, and heart, which circulates it, was delayed and occurred well after the organs were surrounded by extraorgan ice. Natural thawing was a very different process; thawing began uniformly throughout the body, but core organs melted more rapidly than peripheral ones, an adaptation that may be key to the early restoration of heartbeat and breathing. The images presented demonstrate the sensitivity and power of MRI and its potential to become a critical monitoring technology in the development of cryopreservation techniques for mammalian organ explants.
Vision for Designing High-Energy, Hybrid Li Ion/Li–O2 Cells

A new concept to design hybrid Li ion/Li–O2 cells employing dual-functioning metal oxide electrodes/electrocatalysts that have an affinity for releasing lithium and oxygen during charge and producing Li2O–metal oxide compounds during discharge, at voltages at or above the theoretical potential for Li2O2 and Li2O formation, is discussed. First-principles density functional theory calculations lend support to previously-reported experimental data and the concept that a Li–Fe–O/Fe–O charge product derived electrochemically from a parent Li5FeO4 crystalline structure can react, at thermodynamic equilibrium, with lithium and oxygen at or above the potential for Li–O2 reactions to regenerate the Li5FeO4 composition, presumably with concomitant redox of the iron ions to assist the catalytic process. Because all of the lithium, iron, and oxygen required for the electrochemical reaction are, in principle, contained in the parent Li5FeO4 structure, these results have exciting implications for designing an “all-in-o...
Insight into the structure and mechanism of nickel-containing superoxide dismutase derived from peptide-based mimics.

ConspectusNickel superoxide dismutase (NiSOD) is a nickel-containing metalloenzyme that catalyzes the disproportionation of superoxide through a ping-pong mechanism that relies on accessing reduced Ni(II) and oxidized Ni(III) oxidation states. NiSOD is the most recently discovered SOD. Unlike the other known SODs (MnSOD, FeSOD, and (CuZn)SOD), which utilize “typical” biological nitrogen and oxygen donors, NiSOD utilizes a rather unexpected ligand set. In the reduced Ni(II) oxidation state, NiSOD utilizes nitrogen ligands derived from the N-terminal amine and an amidate along with two cysteinates sulfur donors. These are unusual biological ligands, especially for an SOD: amine and amidate donors are underrepresented as biological ligands, whereas cysteinates are highly susceptible to oxidative damage. An axial histidine imidazole binds to nickel upon oxidation to Ni(III). This bond is long (2.3–2.6 A) owing to a tight hydrogen-bonding network.All of the ligating residues to Ni(II) and Ni(III) are found wit...
The Fate of Fluorescein-Labeled Soluble Antigen-Antibody Complex in the Mouse

Some of the early historical and theoretical aspects of the biological activities of soluble antigen-antibody (Ag-Ab) complexes have been presented by Tokuda and Weiser (1958a). Such complexes produce skin reactions in guinea pigs (Ishizaka and Campbell, 1958), stimulate guinea pig intestinal smooth muscle (Trapani et al, 1958), fix complement (Weigle and Maurer, 1957a, b; Weigle and Dixon, 1958), cause anaphylactic shock in guinea pigs (Germuth and McKinnon, 1957) and mice (Tokuda and Weiser, 1958a, b), and produce acute glomerulonephritis in rats (Benacerraf et al, 1960) and mice (McCluskey et al, 1960). Knowledge of the mechanisms by which soluble Ag-Ab complexes exert their biological activites is important to an understanding of hypersensitivity reactions and the part they play in the pathogenesis of allergic diseases. Dixon and co-workers (1958) proposed that the lesions of experimental serum sickness in animals result from the activities of
A Note on Continuity of Enterprise

If an “index of continuity” for business enterprise could be constructed, it would show a distinct rise over the years. Reasons for and significance of this trend are examined, and distinctive mortality rates in various kinds of enterprises are identified. Appropriate data, however, have only recently begun to be recorded. With a sound statistical base, some form of enterprise life insurance may be possible; indeed, certain starts have already been made in this direction.
Correlation between heat-resistance of polioviruses and other genetic markers.

SummaryThe genetic marker involving resistance of polioviruses to heating at 50°C is independent of the capacity of mutants to multiply at 40 °C or their plating efficiency at low bicarbonate concentrations. The possible usefulness of heat-resistant mutants for the study of attenuated poliovirus strains is discussed.
Highly Selective Immobilization of Au Nanoparticles onto Isolated and Dense Nanopatterns of Poly(2-vinyl pyridine) Brushes down to Single-Particle Resolution

Chemical patterns consisting of poly(2-vinyl pyridine) (P2VP) brushes in a background of a cross-linked polystyrene (PS) mat enabled the highly selective placement of citrate-stabilized Au nanopart...
The case for immune-based approaches in biliary tract carcinoma

Biliary tract cancers (BTC) comprise a group of uncommon malignancies in which the standard therapies are minimally effective and evolve slowly. Like the majority of gastrointestinal cancers, with some notable exceptions, the impact of immune-based approaches has yet to be seen. However, the etiological background of BTC-overlapping in almost every known causative or associated factor with inflammation-provides a strong clue that these approaches may have an impact in this group of diseases. This review covers what we currently know about the role of the immune system in the etiology of BTC, highlighting differences by subtype, and pointing to the therapeutic opportunities currently entering the clinic or about to do so. (Hepatology 2016;64:1785-1791).
A nonlinear modeling framework for the detection of underwater objects in hyperspectral imagery

The detection of underwater objects of interest (or targets) in hyperspectral imagery is a challenging problem, with a number of complications that are not present in land-based hyperspectral target detection. The main challenge in underwater detection is that, in contrast to land, where the observed spectrum of an associated target is largely independent of the surrounding background (e.g. the signature of a tank looks more or less the same whether it is on a road or in a field of grass), the observed spectrum of an underwater target is a highly nonlinear function of the background – that is, the optical properties of the water body that the object is submerged in, as well as the depth of the target. As a result, the same object in different types of water and/or at different depths will in general have very different observed spectral signatures. In this work, we present a general overview of the various challenges involved in underwater detection, and present a novel approach that fuses forward radiative-transfer modeling, ocean color predictions, and nonlinear mathematical techniques (manifold learning) to model both the background and target signature(s) and perform detection over a wide range of environmental conditions and depths.
Impact of message sorting on access to novel information in networks

In social networks, individuals and systems work side by side. While individuals make decisions to filter or forward information, systems also prioritize and sort information to manage and assist individual information processing. It has long been argued that system level manipulations can reduce access of individuals to novel information. In this paper, we study how sorting of messages in one's inbox can help or hinder access of diverse information in the network through simulation of cognitively bounded actors. We show that first-in-first-out (FIFO) method of message sorting is ideal in bursty information arrival rates and in networks with lower diameter. Last-in-first-out (LIFO) method of message sorting is ideal for streaming information arrival, but leads to information overload in bursty scenarios by creating too many redundant copies of some of the information in the network. In short, the ideal message sorting method that enhances access to diverse information depends on the network type and information access patterns.
SMMV: Secure multimedia delivery in vehicles using roadside infrastructure

Abstract Vehicular ad-hoc networks (VANETs) have gain a lot attention from academic and industry in recent years. It is seen as the most promising field to change the automotive industry, specially regarding road safety. The primary objective of this paper is to build an Android-based application that utilizes WiMAX IEEE 802.16 network protocols to send a multimedia message securely from one vehicle to another vehicle using infrastructure like rode side units (RSUs) or base station etc. The proposed protocol combines both AES encryption and SHA-256 hashing algorithms to secure the message. Thus, it enables the vehicle's driver to send multimedia messages securely to other drivers using voice commands without having to reach for a cell phone. We compared our proposed scheme in various car density environments such as urban and high-way scenarios. We justified our proposed scheme with simulation results in the end.
A data farmer's almanac

An almanac conveys practical advice in the form of useful facts, advice, and forecasts. Data farming encapsulates the notion of purposeful data generation from simulation models. It uses large-scale designed experiments to facilitate growing simulation output in an efficient and effective fashion, and enables us to explore massive input spaces, uncover interesting features of complex response surfaces, and explicitly identify cause-and-effect relationships. In this presentation, I will weave the two halves of the title together as I recount some key concepts and developments in simulation experimentation, along with experiences and advice drawn from my own data-farming journey.
Abstract 195: Nitro-Oleic Acid is a Dual Inhibitor of Nox1 and Nox2

Nitrated fatty acids (NFAs) are α,β-unsaturated keto derivatives of ω-3 fatty acids formed from redox reactions of nitric oxide and nitrite and have recently emerged as anti-inflammatory agents that act as electrophiles. NFAs activate Nrf2 and PPARγ signaling and inhibit NF-κB. Recent data suggest a role in inhibition of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. This function however, remains largely unexplored. The Nox family of oxidases is a major source of ROS implicated in hypertension and other cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Here we postulate that the NFA nitro-oleic acid (OA-NO 2 ) specifically inhibits ROS production by the Nox1 and Nox2 oxidases. Treatment of canonical Nox1-expressing COS-7 cells with OA-NO 2 vs its oleic acid (OA) control resulted in a concentration-dependent inhibition of ROS production (101.5, 98.9, 91.7, 94.8, 54.2, and 45.5 % of vehicle treated groups for 0.1, 1, 2, 4, 8, and 10 μM OA-NO 2 , respectively), with an IC 50 of 6.5 μM. Treatment of phorbol ester (PMA)-stimulated Nox2-expressing COS-7 cells yielded similar results (103.6, 106.6, 112.2, 102.1, 51.8 and 35.1 % vehicle treated groups for the same OA-NO 2 concentration range) with an IC 50 of 7.0 μM. Treatment with the same OA-NO 2 concentrations of Nox4- or Nox5-expressing COS-7 cells did not result in any inhibition. The effects of OA-NO 2 on Nox1 and Nox2 were unique to its electrophilic unsaturated keto structure, as OA (lacking NO 2 group), palmitic acid (lacking both double bond and NO 2 group) and linoleic acid (containing two cis double bonds) did not result in any inhibition, demonstrating that fatty acids other than NFAs are incapable of this inhibition. Moreover, experiments using potassium superoxide (O 2 •- ) ruled out any scavenging effects of OA-NO 2 on O 2 •- . Finally, 10 μM OA-NO 2 inhibited both angiotensin II (AngII)- and PMA-stimulated O 2 •- in rat aortic smooth muscle cells (4.4 ± 0.9, 10.8 ± 1.7 and 9.0 ± 2.5 in OA-treated vehicle, AngII and PMA groups vs. 5.8 ± 0.6, 5.7 ± 0.3 and 3.3 ± 1.0 pmol O 2 •- /min/mg protein in OA-NO 2 -treated vehicle, AngII and PMA groups, respectively). Taken together, these results identify NFAs as potent inhibitors of Nox1- and Nox2-derived ROS raising the possibility for their use as therapeutic agents to treat hypertension and other CVDs.
The Spectrum of Subclinical Primary Aldosteronism and Incident Hypertension.

Primary aldosteronism is the most common and modifiable form of secondary hypertension and is usually considered when the classic phenotype of severe hypertension or hypokalemia is encountered. Thi...
Time Window Selection via Online Risk Assessment for Power Distribution System Analysis

Electric power system modernization has been driven by the need to integrate inherently stochastic distributed resources (e.g., photovoltatics) into the grid. New infrastructure including smart meters, distribution automation devices, and two-way communications networks allow operators to monitor and control power grids in real-time. Informed operational decisions, however, require nontrivial system analysis. This paper presents a model for effectively allocating computational power for the online analysis of electric power distribution systems. A time-varying risk measure is defined as a function of forecasted injection conditions. Nonlinear optimization is used to select specific analysis times (i.e., times when the state is computed) that occur more frequently when risk is relatively greater. The selected analysis times divide an operating horizon into non-uniform time windows. Simulation results are presented for a 2556-node multi-phase distribution system.
Scalar Quantization II:Optimality and Design

In the previous chapter, we focused on the characterization of quantizers and the assessment of the performance of a given quantizer. The second and more important issue from the engineer’s perspective is the design and implementation of quantizers to meet performance objectives. As always in engineering, there are conflicting objectives and compromise is needed. To provide the tools to find the best trade-off, it is first necessary to understand what is the best that can be achieved under the given constraints. We first focus on the question of quantizer optimality. Specifically, given the constraint that the number of levels, N,is fixed, we examine the conditions that the optimal quantizer must satisfy in order to minimize the average distortion for a particular input pdf. Having established the two key necessary conditions for optimality, we then examine how they can be used to obtain design algorithms of practical use for particular situations. We then go on to discuss implementation issues.
Antiplatelet agents in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention: how many and how much?

Antiplatelet agents play a major role in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Stent thrombosis and the demand for improved clinical outcomes have driven the need for aggressive antiplatelet and anticoagulant regimens and newer, more efficacious, therapies. The benefits of intravenous glycoprotein (GP) IIb/IIIa antagonists and clopidogrel in high-risk patients undergoing PCI appear complementary. In low- to intermediate-risk patients, clopidogrel pre-treatment and a maintenance dose of aspirin + clopidogrel for at least 1 year after PCI are supported by the data, although the optimal duration of clopidogrel treatment beyond 1 year remains hotly contested. The next generation of clinical trials will examine the benefits of antiplatelet and antithrombotic agents as adjunctive therapy with drug-eluting stents. A better understanding of our patients’ overall risk will add to procedural success and more durable outcomes.
Algorithms, graph theory, and the solution of laplacian linear equations

In this talk, we survey major developments in the design of algorithms for solving Laplacian linear equations, by which we mean systems of linear equations in the Laplacian matrices of graphs and their submatrices. We begin with a few examples of where such equations arise, including the analysis of networks of resistors, the analysis of networks of springs, and the solution of maximum flow problems by interior point methods.
Resonant-Separatrix Webs in Stochastic Layers of the Twin-Well Duffing Oscillator

The excitation strength for the onset of a new resonant-separatrix in the stochastic layer of the Duffing oscillator is predicted through the energy change in minimum and maximum energy spectra. The widths of stochastic layers are estimated through the use of the maximum and minimum energy which can be measured experimentally. The energy spectrum approach, rather than the Poincare mapping section method, is applied to detect the resonant-separatrix web in the stochastic layer, and it is applicable for the onset of resonant layers in nonlinear dynamic systems. The analytical condition for the onset of a new resonant-separatrix in the stochastic layer is also presented. The analytical and numerical predictions are in good agreement.
Child Self-Regulation

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the value of utilizing a student- or child-directed learning approach. It begins with a discussion of the benefits of this approach. Following this, it describes the characteristics of student-directed learning strategies. Thereafter, it presents the recommended assessment approaches. In particular, a self-regulated problem-solving model is presented. Subsequently, the chapter discusses recommendations to promote self-regulation. These strategies provide students with increased opportunities to literally regulate their own learning and development. Once students can understand the dynamic connectivity of the self-regulation strategies, they are likely to increasingly realize how much control over the learning process they have. Many students with disabilities experience little control over their own learning. They have a restricted sense of self-efficacy and do not believe that they have control over the learning outcomes. Based on a history of negative experiences at school, they do not believe that they have the capacity to consistently produce a desired learning outcome. Most importantly, they do not know how to modify or adjust their behavior to achieve these goals. Success involves the interaction of opportunity and capacity. Self-regulation provides students with the tools to maximize their capacity to assess existing opportunity and to determine if and how gain can be derived. Self-regulation seeks, in part, to teach this relationship and, in doing so, allows the student to achieve a level of engagement and motivation infrequently experienced.
In vitro bioaccessibility of novel low-crystallinity phytosterol nanoparticles in non-fat and regular-fat foods

Abstract Crystalline structure of phytosterols leads to poor bioavailability and makes their incorporation into foods challenging. Bioaccessibility of first-of-their-kind low-crystallinity phytosterol nanoparticles impregnated in nanoporous starch aerogels (PS-NSA) was evaluated in non-, low-, and regular-fat solid and aqueous food formulations, namely, granola bars and puddings for the first time. Bioaccessibility of the phytosterol nanoparticles was significantly higher than that of crude phytosterols in all food formulations (p
Developing Simulation Models for Fetal Therapy

Abstract Background: In 2018 we started developing simulation-based models as an educational strategy for intrauterine invasive techniques.1 The approach to fetal surgery includes ultrasound-guided...
Recombinant bovine somatotropin increases milk yield and calf gain in diverse breeds of beef cattle: associated changes in hormones and indices of metabolism

In Exp. 1, Angus (A, n = 30), Charolais (C, n = 37), and Simmental (S, n = 30) multiparous cows received (s.c.) recombinantly derived bovine somatotropin (bST; sometribove, 500 mg) or vehicle (VEH) at 2-wk intervals from 124 to 228 d postpartum (DPP). Calves were weaned at 228 DPP. Bovine somatotropin increased (P 1 ng/mL and pregnancy rates were similar in VEH, A-, and B-bST cows. Administration of bST increased cow milk yield and subsequent calf weaning weight when initiated after 100 d postpartum. As anticipated, bST increased IGF-I, insulin, glucose, and nonesterified fatty acids. Administration of bST before and during the breeding season did not affect reproductive performance.
Molecular surface studies of adsorption and catalytic reaction on crystal (Pt, Rh) surfaces under high pressure conditions (atmospheres) using sum frequency generation (SFG) – surface vibrational spectroscopy and scanning tunneling microscopy (STM)

Sum frequency generation (SFG) – surface vibrational spectroscopy and the scanning tunneling microscope (STM) have been used to study adsorption and catalyzed surface reactions at high pressures and temperatures using (111) crystal surfaces of platinum and rhodium. The two techniques and the reaction chambers that were constructed to make these studies possible are described. STM and SFG studies of CO at high pressures reveal the high mobility of metal atoms, metal surface reconstruction, ordering in the adsorbed molecular layer, and new binding states for the molecule. CO oxidation occurs at high turnover rates on Pt(111). Different adsorbed species are observed above and below the ignition temperature. Some inhibit the reaction, and others are reaction intermediates since their surface concentration is proportional to the reaction rate. The dehydrogenation of cyclohexene on Pt(100) and Pt(111) proceeds through a 1,3‐cyclohexadiene surface intermediate. The higher dehydrogenation rate is related to the higher surface concentration of these molecules on the (100) crystal face.
LACK OF IMPACT OF AORTIC STENOSIS ON MORTALITY IN PATIENTS WITH TRANSTHYRETIN CARDIAC AMYLOIDOSIS (ATTR)

The co-occurrence of ATTR and aortic stenosis (AS) has been described, but the influence of AS on mortality in these patients is not well defined. This is a retrospective cohort study of consecutive patients diagnosed with ATTR based on biochemical evaluation, echo, Tc-99m PYP scans, cardiac MRI,
Persistence of Latinas in STEM at an R1 Higher Education Institution in Texas

This study examined the success and persistence of Latina students in the complex environment of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields at a Tier 1 Research higher educatio...