cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Deep Learning for SVD and Hybrid Beamforming

Hybrid beamforming (BF), which divides BF operation into radio frequency (RF) and baseband (BB) domains, will play a critical role in MIMO communication at millimeter-wave (mmW) frequencies. In principle, we can obtain unconstrained (optimum) beamformers of a transceiver, which approach the maximum achievable data rates, through its singular value decomposition (SVD). Due to the use of finite-precision phase shifters, combined with power constraints, additional challenges are imposed on the problem of designing hybrid beamformers. Motivated by the recent success of machine learning (ML) techniques, particularly in areas such as computer vision and speech recognition, we explore if ML techniques can be effectively used for SVD and hybrid BF. To this end, we first present a data-driven approach to compute the SVD. We propose three deep neural network (DNN) architectures to approximate the SVD, with varying levels of complexity. The methodology for training these DNN architectures is inspired by the fundamental property of SVD, i.e., it can be used to obtain low-rank approximations. We next explicitly take the constraints of hybrid BF into account (such as quantized phase shifters, power constraints), and propose a novel DNN based approach for the design of hybrid BF systems. To validate the DNN based approach, we present simulation results for both approximating the SVD as well as for hybrid BF. Our results show that DNNs can be an attractive and efficient solution for estimating SVD in a data-driven manner. For the simulations of hybrid BF, we first consider the geometric channel model. We show that the DNN based hybrid BF improves rates by up to 50 – 70% compared to conventional hybrid BF algorithms and achieves 10 – 30% gain in rates compared with the state-of-art ML-aided hybrid BF algorithms. We also discuss the impact of the choice of hyperparameters, such as the number of hidden layers, mini-batch size, and training iterations on the accuracy of DNNs. Furthermore, we provide time complexity and memory requirement analyses for the proposed approach and state-of-the-art approaches.
Towards antigen-specific Tregs for type 1 diabetes: Construction and functional assessment of pancreatic endocrine marker, HPi2-based chimeric antigen receptor

Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease marked by direct elimination of insulin-producing β cells by autoreactive T effectors. Recent T1D clinical trials utilizing autologous Tregs transfers to restore immune balance and improve disease has prompted us to design a novel Tregs-based antigen-specific T1D immunotherapy. We engineered a Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) expressing a single-chain Fv recognizing the human pancreatic endocrine marker, HPi2. Human T cells, transduced with the resultant HPi2-CAR, proliferated and amplified Granzyme B accumulation when co-cultured with human, but not mouse β cells. Furthermore, following exposure of HPi2-CAR transduced cells to islets, CD8+ lymphocytes demonstrated enhanced CD107a (LAMP-1) expression, while CD4+ cells produced increased levels of IL-2. HPi2-CAR Tregs failed to maintain expansion due to a persistent tonic signaling from the CAR engagement to unexpectantly HPi2 antigen present on Tregs. Overall, we show lack of functionality of HPi2-CAR and highlight the importance of careful selection of CAR recognition driver for the sustainable activity and expandability of engineered T cells.
Intraoperative nerve monitoring is associated with a lower risk of recurrent laryngeal nerve injury: A national analysis of 17,610 patients.

Abstract Background Based on current evidence, the benefit of intraoperative nerve monitoring (IONM) in thyroid surgery is equivocal. Methods All patients who underwent planned thyroid surgery in the 2016–2018 ACS NSQIP procedure-targeted thyroidectomy dataset were included. Multivariable regression analyses were performed to examine the association between nerve monitoring and recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) injury while adjusting for patient demographics, extent of surgery, and perioperative variables. Results In total, 17,610 patients met inclusion criteria: 77.8% were female, and the median age was 52 years. IONM was used in 63.9% of cases. Of the entire cohort, 6.1% experienced RLN injury. Cases with IONM use had a lower rate of RLN injury compared to those that did not use IONM (5.7% vs. 6.8%, p = 0.0001). After adjustment, IONM was associated with reduced risk of RLN injury (OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.59–0.82, p Conclusions Nationally, IONM is used in nearly two thirds of thyroid surgeries. IONM is associated with a lower risk of recurrent laryngeal nerve injury.
Like It, Love It, or Gotta Have It: Relating Materialism and Attachment

Building on extant literature, this paper first provides an overview of the marketing literature on materialism, material values, and attachment to objects. Then, the constructs are interrelated and empirical analyses are made. Using a student sample, respondents’ material values are measured, as well as their attachment to varied items. Multiple methods are used, such that first summated materialism scale values are related to summated attachment scale items. Then, materialism is used as a single construct to explain the construct of attachment. Finally, Richins and Dawson’s (1992) three factors of materialism– centrality, happiness, and success—are used to explain attachment. The unique comparisons of measurement models that link the constructs of material values and attachment in this paper provide insight and basis for future research.
Statistical Opportunities to Accelerate Development for COVID-19 Therapeutics

The COVID-19 pandemic presents unprecedented challenges for drug developers seeking to evaluate the safety and efficacy of potential treatments for COVID-19. Clinical researchers must work quickly ...
Interplay between brassinosteroids and TORC signaling in Arabidopsis revealed by integrated multi-dimensional analysis

Brassinosteroids (BR) and Target of Rapamycin Complex (TORC) are two major processes coordinating plant growth and stress responses. BRs function through a signaling pathway to extensively regulate gene expression and TORC is known to regulate translation and autophagy. Recent studies revealed that these two pathways crosstalk, but a system-wide view of their interplay is still missing. Thus, we performed transcriptome, proteome, and phosphoproteome profiling of Arabidopsis mutants with altered levels of either BIN2 or RAPTOR1B, two key players in BR and TORC signaling, respectively. We found that perturbation of BIN2 or RAPTOR1B levels affects a common set of gene-products involved in growth and stress responses. Additionally, we performed Multiplexed Assay for Kinase Specificity (MAKS), which provided a system-wide view of direct BIN2 substrates. Furthermore, phosphoproteomic data was used to reconstruct a kinase-signaling network and to identify novel proteins dependent on BR and/or TORC signaling pathways. Loss of function mutants of many of these proteins led to an altered BR response and/or modulated autophagy activity. Altogether, these results provide genome-wide evidence for crosstalk between BR and TORC signaling and established a kinase signaling network that defines the molecular mechanisms of BR and TORC interactions in the regulation of plant growth/stress balance.
Investigation of Beam-Level Nonlinear Equalization in Digital Phased Arrays

Interest in nonlinear equalization (NLEQ) techniques has been growing as a means to reduce nonlinear distortion through digital signal processing rather than more expensive and power-hungry high-linearity analog components. This is especially relevant to element-level digital arrays where there is no spatial filtering before the nonlinear receiver chain. While element-level NLEQ has shown encouraging performance improvements, an NLEQ implementation at the beam level would be more efficient, requiring less power consumption and a smaller footprint. This work investigates the feasibility of a beam-level approach and compares beam-level NLEQ to more conventional element-level NLEQ. Simulation and analysis demonstrates beam-level NLEQ is effective when the signals of interest arrive from the same angle, but degrades when signals are spatially diverse. Future techniques may combine beam-level NLEQ and adaptive digital beamforming to efficiently reduce nonlinear distortion in arbitrary signal environments.
Sensitivity and Specificity of Handheld Fundus Cameras for Eye Disease: A Systematic Review and Pooled Analysis.

In order to evaluate the accuracy of commercially available handheld fundus cameras for a variety of ophthalmic diagnoses, we conducted a systematic review, searching PubMed and PubMed Central and performing a bivariate analysis to determine the pooled sensitivity and specificity of handheld fundus cameras. Eleven studies validating handheld fundus cameras against a gold-standard method for disease diagnosis were included. For non-mydriatic images, pooled sensitivity was 83% (95% CI: 77-88%) and specificity was 92% (95% CI: 79-97%). For mydriatic images, pooled sensitivity was 87% (95% CI: 79-92%) and specificity was 90% (95% CI: 78-96%). Overall pooled sensitivity was 85% (95% CI: 80-89%) and specificity was 91% (95% CI: 83-95%). Of the 11 studies included, 5 assessed the diagnosis of diabetic retinopathy, for which sensitivity was 87% (95% CI: 80-92%) and specificity was 95% (95% CI: 85-98%). For all other diagnoses combined, sensitivity was 81% (95% CI: 74-87%) and specificity was 83% (95% CI: 76-89%). These findings suggest that handheld fundus cameras are capable of achieving acceptable sensitivity and specificity values for eye disease, with mydriatic images being more sensitive for disease. Diabetic retinopathy was the single diagnosis with the strongest data to support the use of handheld fundus cameras for disease screening.
On the clones of nilpotent groups with a verbal subgroup of prime order

We show that if G is a finite nilpotent group with a verbal subgroup of prime order then the clone of G is not determined by the subgroups of G2.
Digital literacies and academic integrity

The everyday use of new media technology has inevitably resulted in a shift in students' learning and literacy practices. When tracked into the classroom, these new literacies have consequences for scholarly practice, such as when students complete assignments that draw on source material of dubious academic credibility, which leads to conflict with their teacher's expectations about academic integrity. For instance, when students build on their new media literacy skills by creating mashup videos for YouTube, they will probably exercise different ideas about fair use of source material and acknowledgement practices than those upheld in academe. However, educators can bridge the gap between these everyday media practices and more academic expectations about integrity and appropriate discourse by explicitly discussing the different protocols at play in student use of new media technologies and activities. Allowing for usage of 'home-based' literacy practices gives educators the room to explore alternative academic literacies, which fit new classroom dynamics, while also meeting the needs of more discipline specific academic discourse. This paper will discuss some ways to begin conversations about literacy that will lead to students engaging with issues of academic integrity, arguing that decontextualised moralising about plagiarism, for example, serves little purpose. Approaching academic integrity as itself a form of literacy practice allows educators to build on existing literacies by contextualising these in relation to academic norms.
Functional dependence of trajectory dispersion on initial condition errors

This article proposes numerical techniques to approximate dispersion bounds and burst patterns for Monte Carlo trajectory simulations. The algorithms developed approximate trajectory dispersion bounds and burst patterns caused by the errors in initial conditions in l/100th of the computational expense of full Monte Carlo analyses. The proposed techniques are based on the properties that the six-degree-of-freedom equations of motion produce solutions that vary continuously with initial conditions and preserve the statistical distribution of the initial conditions. The continuity of solutions in initial conditions is studied numerically by performing a stability analysis. Numerical experiments simulating a fuse effectiveness study for two generic re-entry bodies are exhibited. The dispersion bounds and burst patterns predicted using the proposed algorithms are compared to the dispersion bounds and burst patterns predicted using full Monte Carlo simulations. The agreement is excellent.
A novel, simple and low-cost external cavity laser using subwavelength resonant grating filter

A novel, stable external cavity laser with subwavelength resonant grating filter is demonstrated. The SRG-ECL consists of a single Fabry-Perot (FP) laser with a high reflectivity facet and a low reflectivity facet, plus a wavelength selective reflector (SRG filter) as one facet of the external cavity. The laser shows high side mode suppression ratio, high output power, high polarization extinction ratio, and low threshold current. It can be readily integrated with other optical elements, and is simple and potentially inexpensive to implement. With these advantages, it can be a viable light source for future applications in areas such as fiber-optic communications.
Metal hydride reactions: I. Reaction of hydrogen with solutes in liquid metal solvents

Abstract The precipitation of various solutes as hydrides from liquid metal solutions with hydrogen at one atmosphere pressure was investigated. The solutes considered were calcium, yttrium, lanthanum, cerium and thorium and the solvents were magnesium, Mg-55 wt.% Zn, Mg-30 wt.% Al, and zinc. The residual concentrations of the above solutes in atom percent in magnesium at 650°C were found to be 5.6, 0.034, 2.9. 3-3 and 0.67 respectively. The residual concentration increases rapidly with an increase in temperature as expected from the free-energy data for the hydrides. The addition of a more electronegative component, such as zinc, to the magnesium also increases the residual concentration. The solubilities at various temperatures, under an inert gas, for yttrium in zinc, zirconium in aluminium, thorium in Mg-30 wt.% Al and in Mg-55 wt.% Zn were measured. Hydrogen at one atmosphere pressure was found to have no detectable effect on the solubility of yttrium in zinc, or the solubility of zirconium in aluminum. The activity coefficients of the solutes in magnesium were calculated from the data obtained.
Isolation of the Nonviable Cells Produced During Normal Growth of Recombination-Deficient Strains of Escherichia coli K-12

During normal growth, cultures of recombination-deficient (Rec(-)) strains contain a population of cells that do not form colonies. Such cells are not present in a culture of an isogenic Rec(+) strain. We present a procedure for isolating and studying this defective population of cells. Exposure of a growing Rec(-) or Rec(+) culture to low levels of penicillin causes the dividing cells to elongate. The size of the nonviable cells present in the Rec(-) cultures is unaffected. The nonviable cells are then separated from the elongated cells by velocity sedimentation. This isolation technique provides a convenient way of analyzing the composition, biosynthetic capacity, and enzymatic function of the nonviable cells before isolation. In this paper we present data showing that before fractionation the nonviable cells in the Rec(-) culture are defective in their ability to synthesize beta-galactosidase, whereas the Rec(-) viable cells behave like the Rec(+) cells in this regard. This observation confirms the existence of at least two classes of cells in liquid cultures of Rec(-) strains grown under normal conditions. That class of cells which is unable to synthesize beta-galactosidase is the same class that cannot form colonies when plated on solid medium.
Workplace Violence in Healthcare Settings.

Workplace violence includes acts of incivility, bullying, verbal and physical aggression, threatening words or actions, sexual harassment, and physical assaults; and is a profound problem for healthcare workers. Although the number of published articles addressing workplace violence has increased in recent years, there was a lack of opportunities for researchers studying workplace violence in the United States’ healthcare sector to meet and share theories, models, findings, and prevention programs and their evaluations. As a result, there became a critical need for a domestic conference to be held where innovators, educators, and researchers could come together to network, build interprofessional teams, and share strategies, potential solutions, educational materials, best practices, programs, policies, and findings related to the prevention, management, and recovery associated with workplace violence. In May 2012, the National Conference for Workplace Violence in Healthcare Settings was held in Cincinnati, Ohio. At the 21/2 day conference, four keynote, 20 paper, and 23 poster presenters delivered relevant and timely content with direct implications for healthcare policy. From this cadre of presentations, we invited presenters to submit papers for this special issue. We are now excited and honored to present this special issue of Workplace Violence in Healthcare Set-
Theoretical and Experimental Analysis of Operating Point Stability of Synchronous Machines

A stability study of synchronous machine operation is made by applying Routh's criterion to the linearized equations describing behavior for small perturbations about a steady state operating point. Two special cases for non salient-pole machines are examined and experimental confirmation of the predicted stability boundaries is given. Salient pole machines with both d and q-axis damper windings are also investigated. Results illustrating the effect of frequency, load torque, rotor inertia, stator resistance, and other machine parameters and constraints are included and suggestions regarding improved performance are given.
Equivalence of Discrete Euler Equations and Discrete Hamiltonian Systems

Abstract Erbe and Yan recently presented a discrete linear Hamiltonian system. Their system is a special case of the discrete Hamiltonian system Δy(n − l) = H z (n, y(n), z(n − l)) Δz(n − l) = −H y (n, y(n), z(n − l)), where Δy(n − 1) = y(n) − y(n − 1). Under certain implicit solvability hypotheses, these systems are equivalent to the discrete Euler equation ƒy(n, yn, Δyn − l) = Δƒr(n, yn, Δyn − l). A Reid Roundabout Theorem for linear recurrence relations −Knyn+1 + Bnyn − KTn−1yn−1 = 0 is shown to imply the corresponding result obtained by Erbe and Yan for discrete linear Hamiltonian systems. Furthermore, discrete linear Hamiltonian systems are shown to have a symplectic transition matrix.
Attenuation of Electromagnetic Fields in Pipes Smaller than the Critical Size

A theoretical and experimental discussion is given of electromagnetic fields in pipes smaller than the critical size, especially with regard to attenuation, and based upon wave-guide theory. It is shown that the rate of attenuation, as the wavelength increases and passes through the critical value, approaches a high asymptotic value. Confirmatory experimental data are given. Simple formulas for attenuation are included.
Modelling of parasitic interconnection inductances on the GaAs-based VLSIC's

Parasitic inductances associated with the interconnections in high density environments have become one of the primary factors in the evolution of the high speed VLSI technology. We have carried out a computer-efficient simulation and developed the related computer software to determine the parasitic inductances associated with the single-, bi- and tri-level high density interconnections on the GaAs-based VLSIC's. The self and coupling interconnection inductances have been determined by a network analogue method developed for the finite-length interconnections, open substrates and finite dimensions of the bottom ground plane. Related computer software modules have been developed and run successfully on the mainframe computers. For a given set of the interconnection dimensions and other parameters, the algorithm takes less than 1 minute of the computer processing time on a mainframe computer. The modules have been used to study the dependences of the parasitic inductances on the interconnection parameters such as their length, width, separation, interlevel distance and the substrate thickness.
Anthropology and tourism

Abstract Anthropological interest in tourism has been slow to develop, but is now well-established and there are hopeful signs for further development. Most anthropological work has been linked to acculturation involving Western tourists and non-Western hosts, but some interest in tourists' experiences has also been evident. An apparently fertile line of research that takes different forms of tourism as superstructural manifestations has only begun. A number of studies guided by practical questions show that applied anthropological interests and theoretical concerns can proceed together. The contribution of a cross-cultural, holistically oriented anthropology to the broader endeavor of social scientists to understand tourism is also considered.
Endorectal Balloon in Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) for Early-Stage Prostate Cancer: A Planning and Dosimetry Analysis

Endorectal Balloon in Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) for Early-Stage Prostate Cancer: A Planning and Dosimetry Analysis H.F. Xiang, H. Lu, A.E. Hirsch, J.A. Efstathiou, A.L. Zietman, K. Harris, N. Bloch, S. Keohan, J. Willins, and L.A. Kachnic; Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, Boston Medical Center and Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA
Distortion of preferences and the Nash theory of bargaining

Abstract It is shown that in Nash bargaining over division of a single good, when agents are allowed to distort their von Neumann-Morgenstern utility functions into any (weakly) concave form, reporting linear utility functions constitutes a unique dominant-strategy Nash equilibrium.
ENDOCRINE MARKERS OF AGING

Sophisticated methods available to quantitate hormone secretion and hormone action provide opportunities to identify potential endocrine biomarkers of aging. However, there are many challenges facing the investigator who wishes to establish an endocrine biomarker. Circulating levels of many hormones fluctuate on a circadian rhythm, and a variety of other short-term fluctuations may occur. Hormone secretion is generally tightly regulated and often affected by multiple, redundant feedback mechanisms. Interpretation of circulating hormone levels must also take into account factors affecting hormone metabolism and degradation which may be influenced by age. The rate of hormone secretion and circulating hormone levels are related to the sensitivity to hormone action by feedback control mechanisms. Thus interpretation of potential circulating endocrine markers of aging must take into account changes in sensitivity to that hormone as well.
Is medullary carcinoma of the breast hormone dependent

From 1951 to 1981, 22 patients with metastatic medullary carcinoma of the breast were treated with hormonal therapies at Roswell Park Memorial Institute. Bilateral oophorectomy was performed in 6 premenopausal patients, and none had objective response, although one patient did have stable disease for 7 months. Three of these patients subsequently underwent bilateral adrenalectomy and none responded. Thirteen of 16 postmenopausal patients underwent bilateral adrenalectomy and only one had an objective response of 4 months. Eight of 22 patients received additive hormones, and one patient was treated with Tamoxifen. There was no objective response to these therapies. From this study, it appears that medullary carcinoma of the breast is less often responsive to endocrine therapy, and this finding correlates well with the recent data showing lower frequency of estrogen receptor-positive tumors in these patients.
Ovarian hormones influence corticotropin releasing factor receptor colocalization with delta opioid receptors in CA1 pyramidal cell dendrites

Stress interacts with addictive processes to increase drug use, drug seeking, and relapse. The hippocampal formation (HF) is an important site at which stress circuits and endogenous opioid systems intersect and likely plays a critical role in the interaction between stress and drug addiction. Our prior studies demonstrate that the stress-related neuropeptide corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) and the delta-opioid receptor (DOR) colocalize in interneuron populations in the hilus of the dentate gyrus and stratum oriens of CA1 and CA3. While independent ultrastructural studies of DORs and CRF receptors suggest that each receptor is found in CA1 pyramidal cell dendrites and dendritic spines, whether DORs and CRF receptors colocalize in CA1 neuronal profiles has not been investigated. Here, hippocampal sections of adult male and proestrus female Sprague-Dawley rats were processed for dual label pre-embedding immunoelectron microscopy using well-characterized antisera directed against the DOR for immunoperoxidase and against the CRF receptor for immunogold. DOR-immunoreactivity (-ir) was found presynaptically in axons and axon terminals as well as postsynaptically in somata, dendrites and dendritic spines in stratum radiatum of CA1. In contrast, CRF receptor-ir was predominantly found postsynaptically in CA1 somata, dendrites, and dendritic spines. CRF receptor-ir frequently was observed in DOR-labeled dendritic profiles and primarily was found in the cytoplasm rather than at or near the plasma membrane. Quantitative analysis of CRF receptor-ir colocalization with DOR-ir in pyramidal cell dendrites revealed that proestrus females and males show comparable levels of CRF receptor-ir per dendrite and similar cytoplasmic density of CRF receptor-ir. In contrast, proestrus females display an increased number of dual-labeled dendritic profiles and an increased membrane density of CRF receptor-ir in comparison to males. We further examined the functional consequences of CRF receptor-ir colocalization with DOR-ir in the same neuron using the hormone responsive neuronal cell line NG108-15, which endogenously expresses DORs, and assayed intracellular cAMP production in response to CRF receptor and DOR agonists. Results demonstrated that short-term application of DOR agonist SNC80 inhibited CRF-induced cAMP accumulation in NG108-15 cells transfected with the CRF receptor. These studies provide new insights on opioid-stress system interaction in the hippocampus of both males and females and establish potential mechanisms through which DOR activation may influence CRF receptor activity.
Resolution of an Annulus Test Object

The diffracted light distribution in the image of an illuminated annulus formed by a perfect lens has been calculated numerically. These figures have been applied to obtain the drop in intensity at the center of the image at the resolution threshold.
The structure and molecular properties of the acetylene–HCN complex as determined from the rotational spectra

The microwave spectra for four isotopic species of a complex formed between acetylene and HCN have been obtained using the pulsed, Fourier‐transform method with gas pulsed into an evacuated Fabry–Perot cavity. The spectra indicate the complex to be a T‐shaped near‐prolate asymmetric rotor (κ=−0.993) in its ground vibrational state in which HCN lies on the C2 symmetry axis with the hydrogen atom of HCN pointing to the middle of the triple bond of acetylene. The carbon atom of HCN is situated 3.656 A from the acetylene center of mass. Nuclear quadrupole coupling constants for N are obtained for all four isotopes and deuterium quadrupole coupling constants are obtained for two isotopes. Various contributions to the electric field gradients at quadrupolar nuclei are discussed.
A magnetically field-controllable phononic crystal

Phononic crystals are periodic structures consist of different materials in an elastic medium designed to interact with elastic waves. These crystals have practical applications, such as, frequency filters, beam splitters, sound or vibration protectors, acoustic lasers, acoustic mirrors and elastic waveguides. In this study, the wave propagation in a tunable phononic crystal is investigated. The magnetically controllable phononic crystal consists of a soft magnetorheological elastic medium undergoing large deformations upon the application of a magnetic field. Finite deformations and induced magnetic fields influence wave propagation characteristics in the periodic structure. The soft matrix is modeled as a hyperelastic elastomer to take into account the material nonlinearity. The integrated effects of material properties, transformation of the geometry of the unit cell, and the induced magnetic field, are used to tune the band structure of the periodic structure. Both analytical and finite element methods are employed to evaluate the dispersion diagrams considering Bloch boundary conditions. Results show that the applied magnetic field significantly affect the width and the position of band-gaps.
Cortical activity to vibrotactile stimulation: An fMRI study in blind and sighted individuals

Blind individuals show visual cortex activity during Braille reading. We examined whether such cross-modal activations reflect processing somatosensory stimuli independent of language by identifying cortical activity during a one-back vibrotactile matching task. Three groups (sighted, early-onset, and late-onset [>12 years] blind) detected whether paired vibrations (25 and 100 Hz), delivered to the right index finger, differed in frequency. Three successive paired vibrations, followed by a no-stimulation interval, were presented in a long event-related design. A fixed effects average z-score analysis showed increased activity throughout the visuotopic visual cortex, where it was mostly restricted to foveal and parafoveal eccentricities. Early blind showed the most extensive distribution of activity. Late blind exhibited activity mostly in similar regions but with declining response magnitudes with age of blindness onset. Three sighted individuals had suprathreshold activity in V1 but negative responses elsewhere in visual cortex. Mixed effects ANOVA confirmed group distinctions in defined regions (V1, V3, V4v, V7, LOC, and MT). These results suggest cross-modal adaptation to tactile stimulation in visual cortex independent of language processes. All groups showed increased activity in left primary (S1) and bilateral second somatosensory areas, but without response magnitude differences between groups throughout sensorimotor cortex. Early blind showed the greatest spatial extent of S1 activity. Blind participants had more extensive bilateral activity in anterior intraparietal sulcus and supramarginal gyrus. Extensive usage of touch in Braille reading may underlie observed S1 expansions in the reading finger representation. In addition, learned attentiveness to touch may explain similar expansion of parietal tactile attention regions.
Lysophosphatidic acid stimulates gastric cancer cell proliferation via ERK1-dependent upregulation of sphingosine kinase 1 transcription

In MKN1 gastric cancer cells, lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) upregulates expression of sphingosine kinase 1 (SphK1) and its downregulation or inhibition suppresses LPA mediated proliferation. Although LPA activates numerous signaling pathways downstream of its receptors, including extracellular-signal-regulated kinase 1/2, p38, JNK, and Akt, and the transactivation of the epidermal growth factor receptor, pharmacological and molecular approaches demonstrated that only activation of ERK1, in addition to the CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein β transcription factor, is involved in transcriptional upregulation of SphK1 by LPA. Our data implicate ERK1 as an important mediator of LPA signaling leading to upregulation of SphK1 and point to SphK1 and sphingosine-1-phosphate production as potential therapeutic targets in gastric cancer.
Towards Generalizing Classification Based Speech Separation

Monaural speech separation is a well-recognized challenge. Recent studies utilize supervised classification methods to estimate the ideal binary mask (IBM) to address the problem. In a supervised learning framework, the issue of generalization to conditions different from those in training is very important. This paper presents methods that require only a small training corpus and can generalize to unseen conditions. The system utilizes support vector machines to learn classification cues and then employs a rethresholding technique to estimate the IBM. A distribution fitting method is used to generalize to unseen signal-to-noise ratio conditions and voice activity detection based adaptation is used to generalize to unseen noise conditions. Systematic evaluation and comparison show that the proposed approach produces high quality IBM estimates under unseen conditions.
Numerical analysis and implementation of finite domain complete trial functions method of moments (FCMOM) in CFD codes

Abstract Successful computational fluid dynamics simulations of poly-disperse flows must include modeling of particulate processes, i.e., nucleation, growth, agglomeration, and breakage. A computationally attractive way of computing the temporal and spatial changes in the particulate phase property distribution function is utilizing the population balance equation (PBE). Finite size domain complete set of trial functions method of moments (FCMOM) is a novel solution method among the “method of moment” family for population balance equation solution. This work focuses on the numerical analysis of FCMOM and its implementation in ANSYS Fluent CFD code to probe its performance in simulations of complex systems using the multiphase CFD approach. Three cases including linear particle growth, homogenous aggregation process, and inhomogeneous aggregation (coalescence) were considered. The results were validated against analytical solutions where available or verified against those obtained by the quadrature method of moments (QMOM) approach.
Isoscalar excitations of 24Mg by inelastic 3He scattering

Abstract The implications of a rotational model for 24Mg are tested by inelastic 3He scattering to almost all the known states below 11.5 MeV. Multiple excitation calculations are compared to the data for members of known or suspected rotational bands, particularly the 5− and 6+ states. Three examples of 0+ excited states are studied, and a very strong excitation of the T = 0 1− state at 8.438 is found.
Carl Sagan (1934–1996)

Carl Sagan, Professor of Astronomy and Space Sciences at Cornell University and past AGU Planetology Section president, died of pneumonia on December 20, 1996, following a two-year battle with the bone-marrow disease, myelodysplasia. Sagan, a planetary scientist of the first rank, was also well known for his exceptional skills in bringing science to policymakers and the public. Following a broad undergraduate education with a degree in humanities and physics from the University of Chicago, Carl received his Ph.D. in astronomy and astrophysics from that institution in 1960. He quickly established himself as a pioneer in the investigation of the prospect for extraterrestrial life. His wide background in a variety of sciences, including a position as Visiting Assistant Professor of Genetics at the Stanford University School of Medicine, prepared him well for this new, interdisciplinary field. (Carl's first scientific publication, in 1957, had been “Radiation and the origin of the gene,” in the journal Evolution.) In 1968, Carl came to Cornell University as director of the Laboratory for Planetary Studies, heading a research group that combined spacecraft and theoretical expertise with laboratory investigations of solar system and interstellar organic chemistry.
Virtualization: virtually at the desktop

We have witnessed low resource utilization of high performance graphics workstations in our instructional computer laboratories. The low utilization statistics indicate that workstation consolidation could achieve great savings in infrastructure, networking, power consumption, and maintenance costs. In addition, we would spend less time in deployment, security, and fault isolation without compromising performance. The basic enabler for workstation consolidation in our instructional computing environment is the ability to allow multiple separate operating system instances and associated software packages to share a single hardware server. We have successfully utilized existing off the shelf products and developed tools and protocols to migrate processing tasks from the desktop level to the virtual desktop level running on remote hardware and returning the processing results back to the desktop level for display. Since all processing is done at the server level, we no longer need high performance graphics workstation class machines at the desktop. This allows us to offer high performance graphics workstation capabilities to any desktop, including lower-end commodity class desktop machines, notebook computers, or even thin-clients. While server consolidation through virtualization is not new, desktop workstation virtualization seemed a natural and novel extension of the server virtualization framework. Indeed, the general trend is towards applying virtualization techniques to almost all Information Technology infrastructure machinery, and we should expect to see more virtualization, virtually everywhere in higher education institutions. In this report, we will present our approach, framework, implementation challenges, lessons learned and next steps.
Characteristics of an OSLD in the diagnostic energy range.

Purpose: Optically stimulated luminescence(OSL)dosimetry has been recently introduced in radiation therapy as a potential alternative to the thermoluminescent dosimeter(TLD) system. The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility of using OSL point dosimeters in the energy range used in diagnostic imaging. Methods: NanoDotOSLdosimeters (OSLDs) were used in this study, which started with testing the homogeneity of a new packet of nanoDots. Reproducibility and the effect of optical treatment (bleaching) were then examined, followed by an investigation of the effect of accumulated dose on the OSLD indicated doses. OSLD linearity, angular dependence, and energy dependence were also studied. Furthermore, comparison with LiF:Mg,Ti TLD chips using standard CTdose phantoms at 80 and 120 kVp settings was performed. Results: Batch homogeneity showed a coefficient of variation of 0.99. The angular dependence test showed a drop of approximately 70% in the OSLD response at 90° in mammography (25 kVp). With the general radiography unit, the maximum drop was 40% at 80 kVp and 20% at 120 kVp, and it was only 10% with CT at both 80 and 120 kVp. The energy dependence study showed a range of ion chamber-to-OSLDs ratios between 0.81 and 1.56, at the energies investigated (29–62 keV). A paired t-test for comparing the OSLDs and TLDs showed no significant variation (p > 0.1). Conclusions: OSLDs exhibited good batch homogeneity ( 0.1). However, high uncertainty (42%) in the dose estimate was found as a result of relatively high accumulated dose. Furthermore, nanoDots showed high angular dependence (up to 70%) in low kVp techniques. Energy dependence of about 60% was found, and correction factors were suggested for the range of energies investigated. Therefore, if angular and energy dependences are taken into consideration and the uncertainty associated with accumulated dose is avoided, OSLDs (nanoDots) can be suitable for use as point dosimeters in diagnostic settings.
Regional rat brain content of adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate and guanosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate after acute and subacute treatment with ethanol.

Abstract Acute administration of ethanol (1.0, 2.0, and 5.0 g/kg, ip) to naive male rats (Sprague-Dawley) caused a dose-dependent depression of cerebellar guanosine 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate (cGMP), and a reduction in cortical cGMP at the highest dose of ethanol. The cGMP content was not altered in the anterior hypothalamus, posterior hypothalamus, or striatum. On examining adenosine 3′,5′-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) levels, only the area of the striatum was reduced (5.0 g/kg, ethanol). In these acute experiments there was a negative correlation between blood ethanol concentrations and body temperatures. An elevated environmental temperature (31 ± 1°C) to prevent hypothermia from ethanol administration indicated that hypothermia was not a contributory factor. In the subacute experiments animals showed at the end of 24 hr of ethanol inhalation less hypothermia than naive animals with similar blood ethanol concentrations, a reduction in cGMP in the cerebellum and cortex, but no alteration in regional brain cAMP. When the animals were injected with ethanol (2.0 g/kg, ip) 48 hr after removal from the chamber (ethanol vapor, 24 hr), ethanol produced no significant reduction in body temperature (tolerance), but a decrease in cerebellar cGMP. The cAMP content of the tissues was similar to control animals. Ethanol administration (2.0 g/kg, ip) 48 hr later to animals which were previously exposed to air only in the chamber (24 hr) demonstrated a reduction in body temperature as compared with tolerant animals, a decrease in cerebellar cGMP, and no depletion of cAMP in regional sections of the brain. From this in vivo study the data seem to suggest that brain cyclic nucleotides, particularly cAMP, may have a limited role in ethanol-induced intoxication and tolerance to the hypothermic effect of ethanol.
A three-dimensional incompressible flow simulation method and its application to the Space Shuttle main engine. II Turbulent flow

An implicit finite difference code cast in general curvilinear coordinates is further developed for three-dimensional incompressible turbulent flows. The code is based on the method of pseudocompressibility and utilizes the Beam and Warming implicit approximate factorization algorithm to achieve computational efficiency. A multiple-zone method is further extended to include composite-grids to overcome the excessive computer memory required for solving turbulent flows in complex three-dimensional geometries. A simple turbulence model is proposed for internal flows. The code is being used for the Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME) internal flow analyses.
Konno aortoventriculoplasty in children and adolescents: from prosthetic valves to the ross operation

Abstract Background . In children with complex multilevel left ventricular outflow tract obstruction (LVOTO), the Konno aortoventriculoplasty is used to enlarge the aortic root and increase the size of the aortic valve implanted. We present our experience with the evolution of this surgical approach from prosthetic valves to the Ross operation. Methods . Between March 1982 and July 2000, 60 patients (36 males and 24 females) had 72 Konno aortoventriculoplasties (prosthetic valve and Konno group [57 patients; redo, 12] and Ross-Konno group [15 patients]). The patients' ages ranged from 5 days to 18 years (mean, 8.2 years). The underlying anatomic diagnoses were congenital aortic stenosis and LVOTO in 51 patients, coarctation of the aorta with bicuspid aortic valve in 13, severe aortic insufficiency associated with a ventricular septal defect in 8, interrupted aortic arch in 6, mitral stenosis in 6, atrioventricular septal defect in 5, and endocarditis in 3. There was no statistical difference in age or diagnosis between the two groups. The prosthetic valve group included 42 mechanical valves, 9 homografts, and 6 xenografts. Results . Follow-up ranged from 10 months to 18.5 years (mean, 9.7 years) in the prosthetic valve and Konno group compared with 5 months to 3.7 years (mean, 2.1 years) in the Ross-Konno group ( p p = not significant). Reoperations for LVOTO and aortic valve replacement were significantly higher in the prosthetic valve and Konno group as opposed to the Ross-Konno group (16 vs 0, p Conclusions . The Konno aortoventriculoplasty is a good surgical option for complex LVOTO. Patients with a prosthetic valve and Konno carry a high rate of reoperation. Early operative results with the Ross-Konno operation seem promising.
Types of adolescent sexual relationships and associated perceptions about condom use.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to describe the various types of adolescent sexual relationships and to examine the association between the type of sexual relationship and adolescents' perceptions about the consistency with which other adolescents use condoms. Methods: Adolescents attending a university-based adolescent medicine clinic completed a self-administered questionnaire. Subjects were asked to rate the importance of six qualities (caring about each other, length of time of relationship, ability to talk about anything, ability to talk about sex and condoms, doing things together, and attraction to partner's looks) for each of four different types of sexual relationships (steady, casual, friends, and "one-night stands"). Subjects were also asked to estimate the frequency with which adolescent's use condoms with each type of sexual partner. Results: Questionnaires were completed by 75 sexually experienced adolescents. The mean age of the sample was 16.6 years, and 41.3% were male. All qualities, except attraction to partner's looks, were rated more important for steady partners compared with the other partner types, and more important for sexual relationships with casual partners and friends than for "one-night stands" ( p p Conclusions: Interventions designed to increase the consistency with which adolescents use condoms should take into account the different types of sexual relationships, each with distinct expectancies about the consistency of condom use.
Structure of the p-sulfonatocalix[4]arene complex with tetramethylammonium ions, [NME4]5[p-sulfonatocalix[4]arene]·4H2O

Abstract Treatment of p-calix[4]arene sulfonic acid with excess tetramethylammonium hydroxide yields [NMe4]5[p-sulfonato-calixarene]·4H2O. The compound crystallizes from aqueous solution in the triclinic space group P1 with a = 13.125(3), b = 14.881(3), c = 16.320(4) A, α = 77.19(1), β = 77.30(1), γ = 72.30(1)°, and Dc = 1.35 g cm−3 for Z = 2 (C48H87O20N5S4). Refinement based on 5044 observed reflections yielded a final R value of 0.084. The overall structure consists of bilayers of calix[4]arenes separated by regions which contain the cations and water molecules. One of the tetramethylammonium ions is bound within the hydrophobic calix[4]arene cavity.
Effect of monensin on receptor recycling during continuous endocytosis of asialoorosomucoid

Abstract The binding of asialoglycoproteins to their liver cell receptor results in internalization of the ligand-receptor complex. These complexes rapidly appear in intracellular compartments termed endosomes whose acidification results in ligand-receptor dissociation. Ligand and receptor subsequently segregate: ligand is transported to lysosomes and is degraded while receptor recycles to the cell surface. The proton ionophore monensin prevents acidification of endosomes and reversibly inhibits this acid-dependent dissociation of ligand from receptor. The present study determined the effect of monensin treatment of short-term cultured rat hepatocytes on cell-surface-receptor content, determined both by their binding activity and immunologically, following continuous endocytosis of asialoorosomucoid. Inclusion of 5 μM monensin in the incubation medium reduced the number of immunologically detectable cell-surface receptors by 20% in the absence of ligand. During continuous endocytosis of asialoorosomucoid, inclusion of monensin resulted in a 30–40% reduction of cell-surface receptor detectable either by ligand binding or immunologically. These results suggest that the reduced liver-cell-surface content of receptor in monensin is due to intracellular trapping of ligand-receptor complexes. The reduction of surface receptor during monensin incubation in the absence of ligand suggests that “constitutive recycling” of plasma membrane components also requires intracellular acidification.