cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sovereign Wealth Funds and Corporate Governance: A Minimalist Response to the New Merchantilism

Sovereign wealth funds (SWFs) have increased dramatically in size as a result of increased commodity prices and the increase in the foreign currency reserves of Asian trading countries. SWF assets now roughly equal those in hedge and private equity funds combined. This growth, and the shift of SWF investment strategy toward equities and increasingly high profile investments like capital infusions into U.S. financial institutions following the subprime mortgage problem, have generated calls for domestic and international regulation. The U.S. and other western economies already regulate the foreign acquisition of control of domestic corporations. However, acquisitions of significant but non-controlling positions are not regulated. The danger is that new regulation will compromise the beneficial recycling of trade surpluses accomplished by SWF investments. In this paper, we situate the controversy over SWF investments in the increasing global trend toward direct governmental involvement in corporate activity, a phenomenon we label the New Merchantilism. We explain why increased transparency of SWF investment portfolios and strategy, the most commonly advanced policy recommendation, does not respond to the chief concern that SWF investments have engendered. We offer a regulatory minimalist response to fears that SWFs will make portfolio investments for strategic rather than economic reasons. Under our proposal, voting rights of SWF equity investments in U.S. corporations would be suspended but reinstated on sale. Thus, SWFs would buy and sell fully voting rights, thereby assuring that the incentives to make non-strategic investments would be unaffected, while the capacity to exercise influence for strategic motives would be constrained. The paper concludes by assessing the extent to which even a regulatory minimalist response remains both over and under inclusive; however, the limited imprecision does not undermine the effectiveness of the response.
Distributed distribution-based optimization for sensor fault detection

Faulty sensor data undermine the usability and reliability of sensor networks. Distributed automatous faulty sensor detection is a critical component of a self-managed and sustainable sensor network. In this paper, we present a new distribution-based optimization approach for distributed faulty data detection. We propose a new statistical measurement mutual divergence as the optimization objective function. Based on correlations between related sensor nodes, mutual divergence measures the deviation of a sensor data from its expected value. It captures the behaviors of a broad range of common sensor faults. The distribution-based method is based on the Probabilistic Collectives theory. It searches for solutions in the form of probability distributions and is robust to noise and uncertainty. Experimental results show that the distribution-based method performs better than other methods with significantly higher detection accuracy.
Vanadium and Chromium Catalysts for Polymerization of Ethylene

In the present progress report literature data concerning homogeneous catalyst systems based on vanadium and chromium are reviewed and complemented by a combined study of the magnetic properties and the polymerization activity of such systems. The results show that vanadium forms active species as V (III) and as V (II), but chromium only as Cr (II); models are suggested for the polymerization process. — A comparison with heterogeneous systems (Phillips catalyst) allows the establishment of some general principles concerning the activity of the catalyst and the properties of the polymers.
Limitations of echocardiographic periarterial brightness in the diagnosis of Kawasaki disease.

Kawasaki disease (KD) is a diffuse vasculitis that has surpassed rheumatic fever as the major cause of acquired cardiovascular disease in children. Manifestations include fever, conjunctivitis, rash, lymphadenopathy, swelling of the hands and feet (followed by desquamation), and, in about 20% of cases, coronary artery involvement. The latter may take the form of discrete aneurysms or diffuse dilation and is the basis of virtually all of the mortality and longterm morbidity. Early treatment with intravenous gamma globulin substantially reduces the risk of aneurysm development 1,2 and is considered the standard of care for patients with a new diagnosis. Unfortunately, there is no diagnostic laboratory test and the diagnosis is made on the basis of fever of at least 5 days’ duration and 4 of 5 signs of conjunctivitis, mucosal changes, swollen hands and feet, rash, and cervical lymphadenopathy. 3 These findings are not specific for KD, and echocardiography is typically used in an attempt to confirm the diagnosis. Coronary artery dilation (ectasia) and aneurysm formation are quite specific for KD, but only occur in about a fifth of cases and may not be apparent early in the disease. Several investigators have alluded to “periarterial brightness” 4,5 or “prominence” 6 as an additional echocardiographic feature of KD, presumably reflecting inflammation or swelling of the coronary arterial wall. If these findings are reproducible, they might aid in the diagnosis of KD, especially in the 80% of patients who do not have obvious coronary dilation or aneurysm. The purpose of this study was to determine the intraobserver and interobserver variability in detection of periarterial brightness, and to determine the usefulness of this finding in distinguishing children with confirmed KD from control patients.
Absorptance of Gold in the Far Infrared

The reflectances of seven gold mirrors were measured accurately for wavelengths from 8.5 to 84 μ. The absorptances, calculated from the reflectances, were used to determine the nature of the reflection of the electrons in gold at the gold-air interface.
A NOVEL 1-D BLOCK PROCESSING APPROACH TO 2-D NMR SPECTROSCOPY

In order to extract diagnostic information from NMR data, an imaging technique based on two-dimensional (2-D) spectral estimation has been previously developed. In this method, 2-D state realization is employed to identify protein frequencies using two open-loop matrices derived from row and column directions of the data set. The frequencies along the two directions are paired by diagonalization of one of the matrices using eigenvectors of the other. Computation of the open-loop matrices and their coupling, resulting from the diagonalization, increases complexity and renders realtime processing difficult. In this paper, we present a 1-D state realization algorithm that enhances the computational efficiency by using state matrices derived from only the row direction of the data. Thus, matrix coupling, pole pairing and computation of molecule amplitudes, required to model NMR data in 2-D state realization, are avoided. Resulting images from 1-D algorithm exhibit spectral resolution comparable to 2-D, and provide accurate estimates of the protein frequencies
Impacts of Traditional Bullying and Cyberbullying on the Mental Health of Middle School and High School Students.

A critical debate within the field of school psychology has centered on the relationship between bullying and cyberbullying in terms of prevalence, overlap, and impact. The current study sought to address the following questions: (1) Does cyberbullying create new victims or merely a new means of victimization? (2) Does cyberbullying uniquely contribute to negative outcomes above and beyond those of traditional bullying? Utilizing an anonymous survey to examine students’ experiences with cyberbullying, traditional bullying, and negative psychological symptoms, it was found that the vast majority of students who were bullied online were also victims of in-person bullying. Both forms of victimization were independently associated with negative outcomes. However, when controlling for traditional bullying, cyberbullying did not remain a predictor of negative mental health outcomes. In contrast, when controlling for cyberbullying, traditional bullying remained a significant predictor of negative mental health outcomes. These results suggest that although traditional and cyber forms of bullying tend to target the same victims, traditional bullying is more uniquely associated with negative psychological outcomes.
"Street-Level" Bureaucracy and Political Support: Some Findings on Mexican Americans

Failure of Mexican Americans to integrate and attach themselves to American political and social life is often attributed to bad personal experiences with political authorities. In this paper, levels of contact and satisfaction with several agencies of government are correlated with measures of political participation, political efficacy, representiveness of different levels of government, and impact of different levels of living conditions among a sample of Mexican Americans in Omaha, Nebraska. Little evidence for the proposition is found. While contact with public authorities among Mexican Americans is low, satisfac tion is high. Satisfaction is not, however, correlated with the different dimensions of support. The system performance-system support hypothesis is obviously conditional, varying from one situation to another.
Molecular Dynamics Study of Crack Propagation in Ni-Al

Using an Embedded Atom Method calculation of the interatomic potentials and volume forces in the Ni-Al alloy system, we have examined the plastic and elastic response of an ordered bcc Ni-Al crystal with a pre-existing crack under Mode I loading at various temperatures, stresses and crystal orientation. Depending upon those conditions we found evidence of slip and dislocation generation near the crack tip concomitant with crack propagation. we also saw evidence of a brittle to ductile transition above a certain temperature which is manifested by copious slip and dislocation production. Atomic arrays up to 4000 atoms have been studied.
Distance-dependent electron hopping conductivity and nanoscale lithography of chemically-linked gold monolayer protected cluster films

Abstract Films of monolayer protected Au clusters (MPCs) with mixed alkanethiolate and ω-carboxylate alkanethiolate monolayers, linked together by carboxylate–Cu 2+ –carboxylate bridges, exhibit average edge-to-edge cluster spacings that vary with the numbers of methylene segments in the alkanethiolate ligand as determined by a combined atomic force microscopy (AFM)/UV-Vis spectroscopy method. The electronic conductivity ( σ EL ) of dry films is exponentially dependent on the cluster spacing, consistent with electron tunneling through the alkanethiolate chains and non-bonded contacts between those chains on individual, adjacent MPCs. The calculated electronic coupling factor ( β ) for tunneling between MPCs is 1.2 A −1 , which is similar to other values obtained for tunneling through hydrocarbon chains. Electron transfer rate constants measured on the films reflect the increased cluster–cluster tunneling distance with increasing chainlength. The MPC films are patterned by scanning the surface with an AFM or scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) tip under appropriate conditions. The patterning mechanism is physical in nature, where the tip scrapes away the film in the scanned region. Large forces are required to pattern films with AFM while normal imaging conditions are sufficient to produce patterns with STM. Patterns with dimensions as small as 100 nm are shown. Subsequent heating (300 °C) of the patterned surfaces leads to a metallic Au film that decreases in thickness and is smoother compared to the MPC film, but retains the initial shape and dimensions of the original pattern.
Views on Personalized Medicine: Do the Attitudes of African American and White Prescription Drug Consumers Differ?

Aims: Although recent advances in pharmacogenomics are making possible the use of genetic testing to determine the best medication for patients, little is known about how patients v
When Canvassers Became Activists: Antislavery Petitioning and the Political Mobilization of American Women

Examining an original dataset of more than 8,500 antislavery petitions sent to Congress (1833–1845), we argue that American women's petition canvassing conferred skills and contacts that empowered their later activism. We find that women canvassers gathered 50% or more signatures (absolute and per capita) than men while circulating the same petition requests in the same locales. Supplementary evidence (mainly qualitative) points to women's persuasive capacity and network building as the most plausible mechanisms for this increased efficacy. We then present evidence that leaders in the women's rights and reform campaigns of the nineteenth century were previously active in antislavery canvassing. Pivotal signers of the Seneca Falls Declaration were antislavery petition canvassers, and in an independent sample of post–Civil War activists, women were four times more likely than men to have served as identifiable antislavery canvassers. For American women, petition canvassing—with its patterns of persuasion and networking—shaped legacies in political argument, network formation, and organizing.
Organ Improvisation in 17th-Century Office Liturgy. Contexts, Styles, and Sources

Within its overall role of adorning worship, organ music served several practical functions in Roman Catholic liturgy from the late 16th through the late 18th centuries. It accompanied the physical actions of clergy; set pitch levels for choral singing, including plainchant; served as a choir in its own right by substituting for and alternating with the cappella; and supported vocal music through basso seguente and basso continuo. These liturgical tasks provided the musical parameters for improvised music, including whether a cantus firmus was to be used; the type of texture to be employed; the mode or key, including transposition level; the duration, as appropriate to the type of service and solemnity of the feast; and the affect. This article includes an annotated bibliography of Italian plainchant manuals containing instructions for the improvising organist.
Lava-flow characterization at Pisgah volcanic field, California, with multiparameter imaging radar

Multi-incidence-angle (in the 25° to 55° range) radar data acquired by the NASA/JPL Airborne Synthetic Aperture Radar (AIRSAR) at three wavelengths simultaneously and displayed at three polarizations are examined for their utility in characterizing lava flows at Pisgah volcanic field, California. Pisgah lava flows were erupted in three phases; flow textures consist of hummocky pahoehoe, smooth pahoehoe, and aa (with and without thin sedimentary cover). Of the eight AIRSAR images used here, four were calibrated to within an accuracy of ±2 dB with trihedral corner reflectors, and data from these calibrations were used to process the additional images to a conservatively estimated ±5 dB level of accuracy. Calibrated radar backscatter data (σ°, in dB) were plotted as a function of incidence angle at three wavelengths (P-band, 68 cm; L-band, 24 cm; and C-band, 5.6 cm) and three polarizations (HH, horizontal transmit/horizontal receive; HV, horizontal transmit/vertical receive; and VV, vertical transmit/vertical receive) for eight major units at Pisgah for which multi-incidence-angle AIRSAR data were available. The eight units consist of near-vent and distal aa flows; near-vent and distal, hummocky pahoehoe flows; a mantled, hummocky pahoehoe flow; a platform pahoehoe flow; an alluvial fan; and a playa. Analyses of these backscatter data show that major unmodified volcanic units at Pisgah are readily distinguishable from each other and that they exhibit diffuse (HH, VV) and/or multiple (HV) scattering behavior typical of rough surfaces at these wavelengths. These analyses show that discrimination of smooth lavas (platform pahoehoe) from mantled units with greater primary roughness (hummocky pahoehoe) is difficult and must rely on supporting observations (such as evidence of localized weathering and/or sediment deposition, contrast with surrounding units, and superposition of flow units). L-band backscatter and image data at HV polarization show the best discrimination of Pisgah lava flows, with optimal unit separation observed between ∼40° and 50° incidence angles. Backscatter data shown as a function of relative age of Pisgah flows indicate that dating of lava flows on the basis of average radar backscatter may yield ambiguous results if primary flow textures and modification processes are not well understood.
Mapping domains of retroviral integrase responsible for viral DNA specificity and target site selection by analysis of chimeras between human immunodeficiency virus type 1 and visna virus integrases

Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) and visna virus integrases were purified from a bacterial expression system and assayed on oligonucleotide substrates derived from each terminus of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 and visna virus linear DNA. Three differences between the proteins were identified, including levels of specific 3'-end processing, patterns of strand transfer, and target site preferences. To map domains of integrase (IN) responsible for viral DNA specificity and target site selection, we constructed and purified chimeric proteins in which the N-terminal, central, and C-terminal regions of these lentiviral integrases were exchanged. All six chimeric proteins were active for disintegration, demonstrating that the active site in the central region of each chimera maintained a functional conformation. Analysis of endonucleolytic processing activity indicated that the N terminus of IN does not contribute to viral DNA specificity; this function must reside in the central region or C terminus of IN. In the viral DNA integration assay, chimeric proteins gave novel patterns of strand transfer products which did not match that of either wild-type IN. Thus, target site selection with a viral DNA terminus as nucleophile could not be mapped to regions of IN defined by these boundaries and may involve interactions between regions. In contrast, when target site preferences were monitored with a new assay in which glycerol stimulates IN-mediated cleavage of nonviral DNA, chimeras clearly segregated between the two wild-type patterns. Target site selection for this nonspecific alcoholysis activity mapped to the central region of IN. This report represents the first detailed description of functional chimeras between any two retroviral integrases.
Structural Attributes of Two Old-Growth Cross Timbers Stands in Western Arkansas

Comprised of largely non-commercial, xeric, oak-dominated forests, the Cross Timbers in Arkansas have been heavily altered over the last two centuries, and thus only scattered parcels of old-growth timber remain. We inventoried and mapped two such stands on Fort Chaffee Military Training Center in Sebastian County, Arkansas. The west-facing Christmas Knob site is located on an isolated hill, while the southerly-facing Big Creek Narrows site is on a long, narrow rocky outcrop called Devil's Backbone Ridge. These sites occupied rocky, south- to southwest-facing sandstone-dominated slopes, with primarily post oak (Quercus stellata) and blackjack oak (Q. marilandica) overstories. Post oak dominated the largest size classes at both sites. Increment cores indicated that some post oaks exceeded 200 y of age, and tree-ring dating also confirmed an uneven-aged structure to these stands. Both locations had irregular reverse-J shaped diameter distributions, with gaps, deficiencies, and excesses in larger size classes that often typify old-growth stands. On average, the post oaks at the Big Creek Narrows site were taller, larger in girth, and younger than those on the Christmas Knob site, suggestive of a better quality site at Big Creek. The application of neighborhood density functions on stem maps of both sites found random patterns in tree locations. These stands are very similar in their structure to old-growth examples in other parts of the Cross Timbers ecoregion.
Human heart cold ischemia and its effect on post-cryopreservation viability of heart valves

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of varying heart cold ischemia times on post-cryopreservation valve leaflet cellular functions. Cellular viability and function were assessed through measurement of protein synthesis, ribonucleic acid synthesis, and glucose phosphorylation. Cold ischemia times varied from 24 to 113 h before processing and cryopreservation. The results show that valve leaflet cellular functions could be detected for at least 42 h of post-procurement cold ischemia. This information can be used as a guide in further defining the acceptable limits for heart valve donation and processing.
Visual Perspective Taking as a Measure of Working Memory in Participants With Autism

There is mounting evidence that people with autism have executive function deficits and that those deficits are linked to the social impairment characteristic of autism. Bennetto et al. Child Dev.(1996) 67: 1817–1835 suggest that, more specifically, people with autism may have a deficit in working memory. This hypothesis was tested using a visual perspective-taking task whose working memory load could be systematically varied. The performance of participants with autism on this task was significantly worse than that of the control participants.
The Geographic Distribution of CVD

We have seen that the age-adjusted mortality rates for CVD are quite similar among 18 countries whose medical and reporting standards appear reliable. We have also shown the very striking similarities for age-specific annual mortality rates within the United States, England and Wales, Eire, Norway, Sweden, and Denmark. This would indicate that, for the lands in question, the international distribution of CVD would appear quite uniform. Let us now investigate the geographic distribution within these lands.
Manifolds, Vector Bundles, and Lie Groups

This appendix provides background material on manifolds, vector bundles, and Lie groups, which are used throughout the book. We begin with a section on metric spaces and topological spaces, defining some terms that are necessary for the concept of a manifold, defined in §2, and for that of a vector bundle, defined in §3. These sections contain mostly definitions; however, a few results about compactness are proved.
A Lower Bound for an Area Integral

(1972). A Lower Bound for an Area Integral. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 79, No. 9, pp. 1015-1016.
Exploring change in preservice teachers' beliefs about English Language Learning and teaching

The beliefs a teacher carries into the classroom are a strong predictor of behaviour and, thus, have educational implications. With more English Language Learners (ELLs) worldwide, in mainstream classrooms in English speaking countries and in content-based classes in other countries around the globe than ever before, it is essential that preservice teachers’ beliefs about these students are understood and, when possible, altered to ensure positive and productive educational experiences. This study examined the initial language learning beliefs and attitudes toward ELLs among 354 pre-service teachers in a large public university and compared it to their beliefs after their ESL related coursework. The findings demonstrate beliefs about ELLs can be changed, influencing preservice teachers’ practices in future classrooms. Survey data collected before and after specific coursework revealed a significant shift in preservice teachers’ beliefs, indicating more alignment with current research and sound educational practice. Semi-structured focus-group interviews provided supporting evidence. These findings suggest pre-service teachers need evidence-based coursework in language development and language learning processes to overcome misconceptions regarding ELLs.
Evidence Is Evidence: An Interview with Mary-Claire King

I often have one eye on the PBS NewsHour when I'm preparing dinner, but whenever the subject turns to the Supreme Court, I snap to full attention. I love the NewsHour's Marcia Coyle who, like her equally engaging counterpart Nina Totenberg on National Public Radio, bears witness to the Court's exertions and delights in sharing them with us. In an age of 24/7 tweets and Snapchats, courtroom drawings and the recollected volley of question and answer are seeming throwbacks to the origins of the Constitution itself. We imagine ourselves there, we know this really matters, and we wonder what the Court will decide.
Bringing Adam Home

It is every parent’s worst nightmare. You take your child to a store and the child ends up missing. You retrace your steps, trying desperately to figure out how you and your child may have been sep...
Colon Ischemia: An Update for Clinicians

Colon ischemia (CI) is an underrecognized entity associated with high morbidity and mortality. Establishing the diagnosis and initiating appropriate and timely treatment is critical for improving outcomes. Colon ischemia is a disease spectrum that requires a full understanding for recognition and treatment. This review outlines the full spectrum of CI management from initial presentation to medical and surgical treatment.
Short-term Risk Assessment of Dynamic Line Rating

The capacity data can be obtained by monitoring the transmission line using dynamic line rating(DLR) technique.The probability of malfunction is predicted and the risk assessment is realized utilizing the method of bayes statistics based on the real-time running state data and the climate parameter of pending time.The Markov chain Monte Carlo(MCMC) method is used to make chance distribution of boundary homomorphism;then the sequence is calculated to get a random line temperature's sample of the present or pending time using the synoptic model.According to the frequency value of the sample,the probability function of line temperature or its probability greater than a certain threshold is provided.The feasibility and validity of this method are verified,and the improving direction is emphasized at last.
Factors associated with patient recall of individualized dietary recommendations for kidney stone prevention.

Dietary approaches to preventing the recurrence of idiopathic calcium-containing kidney stones are effective. However, a lifelong commitment to prevention is challenging for many patients. Multiple patient factors likely account for compliance and adherence with dietary recommendations. We examined patients’ recall and compliance with dietary recommendations provided during clinical evaluation. Of 275 patients who received dietary recommendations from a dietitian, 112 completed an investigator-designed survey querying their recollection of dietary recommendations. Patients’ responses were compared with the recommendations actually provided as entered in patients’ medical records. Patients (62% male, 56±13 years; 38% female, 52±14 years) were provided 3.4±1.1 recommendations (min–max, 1–6) and recalled 67% of recommendations. Highest recalls were for (i) lower meat/fish/poultry intake, (ii) higher fluid intake and (iii) lower sodium (⩾68% for all). Lowest recalls were for weight loss, using citrus juices and increasing fruits/vegetables (⩽61% for all). Forty-seven percent of patients given 1–3 recommendations recalled 100%, whereas only 23% of patients provided >3 recommendations did so (P=0.011). Even though 38% of patients reported some difficulty following dietary recommendations, nearly all (91%) said that they were willing to continue following them. Higher patient recall is associated with ⩽3 dietary recommendations. Patient recall of recommendations that were not actually provided (‘false recall’) may contribute to reduced recall and confusion about the most important dietary strategies to reduce their stone risk. Accordingly, providers should prioritize the most important dietary recommendations, reserving those less important for follow-up, and address any confusion patients have from information received prior to evaluation.
Foreword: a tribute to the work of JHS investigators, the Jackson community and NIH scientists.

The National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering is happy to join our sister institutes, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI)and National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), to participate in this important enterprise for the country. We look forward to the kind of information that is not only coming out, but will come out in the future from the Jackson Heart Study (JHS). The purpose of the JHS – to explore reasons for cardiovascular health disparities and uncover new approaches to their elimination – parallels that of imaging science itself. Biomedical imaging has an expanding capability to observe, define, delineate and characterize the early pathophysiologic manifestations of heart and other diseases. This subclinical detection is critical to realizing the vision of transforming health care in this century into an endeavor focused on wellness and identification of preclinical indicators of heart disease. With this approach, we will enable detection and intervention at a point in the natural history where maladies are more amenable to non-invasive therapeutic approaches. The JHS imaging database of thousands of thoracic and abdominal multidetector CT scans, MRI assessment of cardiac and vascular structure and function –all obtained on a community-based sample of African Americans – represents one of the most unique and valuable resources in medical research. The creation of this internationally significant platform for scientific discovery is a tribute to the work of the JHS investigators, the community of Jackson and the mutually supportive work of the NIH scientists. Imaging has a unique contribution to make to epidemiology and population research, and the NIBIB is particularly pleased to be exploring this frontier of discovery with the Jackson Heart Study.
Fertility Following Bilateral Ovarian Wedge Resection: A Critical Analysis of 90 Consecutive Cases of the Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Fertility following bilateral ovarian wedge resection (BOWR) was evaluated in a retrospective cohort study of 90 consecutive cases of the polycystic ovary syndrome. Post-BOWR follow-up was available for varying time spans of up to 10 years. BOWR resulted in the resumption of menstrual cyclicity in 91.1% (82/90) of the cases. However, within this ovulatory group, 26 patients were characterized by oligo-ovulation and a significantly reduced conception rate (292%), as compared with that of 56 normo-ovulatory counterparts (60.3%). Although the crude overall conception rate for this series was 47.8%, the overall cumulative probability of conception at the end of follow-up as determined by life table analysis was 73%. The likelihood of conception at any given point in time was estimated by a monthly fecundability rate of 1.34%. Our findings also indicate that the probability of post-BOWR conception was unaffected by age, race, ward status, or duration of infertility. In contrast, persistent post-BOWR oligo- or anovulation and the presence of concurrent tuboperitoneal disease were reaffirmed as the most important determinants of the likelihood of post-BOWR conception. A minimum incidence of 7.8% was documented for acquired post-BOWR pelvic disease.
Visualizing Light Scattering in Silicon Waveguides with Black Phosphorus Photodetectors

A black phosphorus photodetector is utilized to investigate the light-scattering patterns of a silicon waveguide through wavelength- and polarization-dependent scanning photocurrent measurements. The photocurrent signals exhibit similar patterns to the light-intensity distribution of the waveguide calculated by finite-difference time-domain simulations, suggesting that photoexcited electron-hole pairs in the silicon waveguide can be injected into phosphorene to induce its photoresponse.
Improving substance use prevention efforts with executive function training.

Abstract Background Executive function (EF) includes emotional regulation, planning and decision-making, and behavioral impulse control. Improving youth substance use (SU) prevention by targeting EF poses challenges including determining whether specific sub-domains of EF are more associated with SU than others, whether EF is related to some types of SU more than others, and whether EF programs might be enhanced by inclusion of mindfulness training. Methods Data were drawn from two studies from the Pathways to Health project: a randomized controlled trial of 4th–6th graders and a cross-sectional pilot study of the relationship of EF to specific types of SU in a sample of 7th graders. Survey measures included assessment of the EF subdomains of inhibitory control (IC), emotional control, working memory, organization/planning, lifetime SU (tobacco and alcohol use), and mindfulness. Analyses included multivariate and multiple group path analysis. Results Results suggested that the EF sub-domain of IC was the strongest and most consistent predictor of SU, particularly cigarette and e-cigarette use, though emotional control was predictive of alcohol use among late-elementary school students. In the 7th grade sample, IC was predictive of alcohol, cigarette, and e-cigarette use only among students in the low 75% of mindfulness. Conclusions Findings from the present studies suggest that improvements in SU prevention efforts may result from increased curricular emphasis on IC and its application to multiple substance use prevention, and systematically integrating mindfulness with EF skills training. Future research should examine whether EF–SU relationships vary across patterns of SU and types of measures used to assess EF.
Heater-cantilevers for writing: design, fabrication and basic characterization

This chapter describes a micromachined cantilever with an integrated heating element in the form of a lightly doped, high-resistivity region near the tip of the cantilever. The rest of the cantilever is heavily doped and has low electrical resistance (Fig. 2.1). When electric current flows through the cantilever, power is dissipated mainly within the high-resistivity heater region, leading to a localized temperature rise at the tip. Thermal writing can be accomplished when the tip is brought into contact with a polycarbonate substrate.
Should endovascular approach be the first line of treatment for retroperitoneal bleeding with hemodynamic shock following percutaneous intervention? A case series.

Objectives To report a series of consecutive patients that developed retroperitoneal hemorrhage (RPH) and persistent hypotension treated with endovascular approach. Background RPH is a rare complication of percutaneous cardiovascular interventions associated with high morbidity and mortality. The standard approach to treat this complication has been a conservative management for stable patients, and urgent vascular surgery for those with persistent hypovolemic shock. Percutaneous endovascular treatment has evolved as an alternative treatment option. Methods We implemented a management algorithm for patients with suspected RPH and persistent hypotension which embraced systematic use of emergency endovascular evaluation and treatment following clinical assessment without the use of non-invasive diagnostic testing. We report a series of 8 consecutive patients that developed RPH with persistent hypotension. Results Successful percutaneous treatment was achieved in all cases with the use of a covered stent. No patient required vascular surgery. The average blood transfusion was 3.4 ± 2.7 units per patient. There were no deaths; one patient experienced acute stent thrombosis that was successfully treated via endovascular approach. At 1-year follow-up, no further events were reported. Conclusion The incorporation of a standardized protocol using only clinical evaluation followed by emergency percutaneous approach without delays attributed to non-invasive diagnostic work-up showed to be feasible and associated with favorable outcomes. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fast algorithm for implementing spatial frequency analysis of electromagnetic scattering

In a previous paper, the spatial frequency technique was developed for solving the integral equation (IE) in electromagnetic scattering problems and shown to work faster than many existing solution methods. In this follow-up paper, a new algorithm which takes advantage of the efficient FFT algorithm is developed for solving the IE for scattering from conducting objects. The new algorithm, known as the Fast-SFT, is an efficient, iterative method, which utilizes direct vector multiplications and FFT operations only, to estimate the induced currents. Simulation results are compared with other iterative approaches and shown to work faster than methods such as the conjugate gradient FFT (CG-FFT) method.
New contrasts for x-ray imaging and synergy with optical imaging

Due to its penetrating power, fine resolution, unique contrast, high-speed, and cost-effectiveness, x-ray imaging is one of the earliest and most popular imaging modalities in biomedical applications. Current x-ray radiographs and CT images are mostly on gray-scale, since they reflect overall energy attenuation. Recent advances in x-ray detection, contrast agent, and image reconstruction technologies have changed our perception and expectation of x-ray imaging capabilities, and generated an increasing interest in imaging biological soft tissues in terms of energy-sensitive material decomposition, phase-contrast, small angle scattering (also referred to as dark-field), x-ray fluorescence and luminescence properties. These are especially relevant to preclinical and mesoscopic studies, and potentially mendable for hybridization with optical molecular tomography. In this article, we review new x-ray imaging techniques as related to optical imaging, suggest some combined x-ray and optical imaging schemes, and discuss our ideas on micro-modulated x-ray luminescence tomography (MXLT) and x-ray modulated opto-genetics (X-Optogenetics).
Computational systems biology of epithelial-hybrid-mesenchymal transitions

Abstract Metastasis accounts for more than 90% of cancer-related deaths, and is fueled by fine-tuned transitions among many cellular phenotypes. Transitions among epithelial (strong cell–cell adhesion, no or little migration), mesenchymal (no cell–cell adhesion, high migration), and hybrid epithelial/mesenchymal (both cell–cell adhesion and cell migration) phenotypes are considered to be a hallmark of metastasis. Recent years have witnessed rapid progress in mapping the regulatory networks underlying these transitions. This progress has enabled the capability to develop computational systems biology models to characterize how various intracellular and extracellular signals can drive these transitions. Here, we discuss how different mathematical models have contributed to elucidating the underlying principles of these transitions and guided further experiments to address key unanswered questions concerning metastasis.
Financial Forecasting and Stochastic Modeling: Predicting the Impact of Business Decisions.

Stochastic financial modeling rewards the enlightened manager with a flexible construct to test a broad spectrum of conditions and contingencies with the ability to mitigate downside risk through pretested interventions.
A model for internal oscillations in geysers, with application to Old Faithful (Yellowstone, USA)

Abstract We present a mechanical model for internal oscillations in geysers with “bubble trap” configurations, where ascending gas or vapor becomes trapped beneath the roof of a cavity that is laterally offset from the eruption conduit. We consider two cases, one in which the trapped gas behaves as an isothermal ideal gas, and one where it is treated as isenthalpic steam. In both cases the system behaves as a damped, harmonic oscillator with a resonant frequency that is sensitive to the conduit geometries and fluid volumes. We use the model to predict internal oscillation frequencies for Old Faithful geyser, in Yellowstone, USA, using conduit geometry constraints from the literature, and find that the frequencies predicted by the model are consistent with observations (~ 1 Hz). We show that systematic frequency increases during the recharge cycle, when the fluid volume of the system is increasing due to recharge, are consistent with either a decrease in the amount (both volume and mass) of trapped gas or vapor, a decrease in the eruption conduit area, or a combination of both.
Impacts of new school facility construction: An analysis of a state-financed capital subsidy program in Ohio

Abstract This paper analyzes Ohio’s capital subsidy program which distributed over $10B for school construction in 231 school districts between 1997 and 2011. Using an instrumental variables estimation, we find the percentage of students meeting test score proficiency thresholds decrease in math and reading in the first couple years after the capital expenditures and then increase in subsequent years. These results are consistent with short-term disruptions in student learning followed by long-term benefits from the capital expenditures. We also consider mechanisms by which capital expenditures affect achievement and find some evidence that changes in capital expenditures are correlated with changes in operating expenditures, suggesting that some of these effects may be attributable to operating expenditures. We find similar effects of these capital investments on the housing market. While in the short-term these construction projects decrease home prices, the housing market does benefit in the long-term from improvements to the capital stock.
Estimating the health care costs associated with recurrent cellulitis managed in the outpatient setting.

Background Recurrent cellulitis is diagnosed in 22% to 49% of all cellulitis cases, but little is known about the costs associated with these cases. Objective To characterize patients with recurrent cellulitis in the outpatient setting and estimate the associated costs. Methods A retrospective chart review was conducted for adult patients who presented to the outpatient facilities at our institution from January 1, 2007, to December 31, 2011, with recurrent cellulitis. Data provided by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services were used. Results A total of 157 patients were identified; 56% were male, with a mean age of 62.7 years. The mean number of episodes of cellulitis per patient was 3. Antibiotics were prescribed for all patients with a diagnosis of recurrent cellulitis, with 93% treated with oral antibiotics and 17.6% treated with intravenous antibiotics. A total of 1081 laboratory and 175 radiologic imaging tests were ordered. The minimum average cost per cellulitis episode was $586.91; the average cost per visit was $292.50. Limitations Retrospective study; use of a single, large academic institution; and utilization of cost estimates that may not adequately reflect the variation of costs across closed-system sites or geographic regions. There was no accounting for the nonfinancial or opportunity costs associated with hospitalization, such as lost days of employment or child care and any long-term morbidities, among others. Conclusions Recurrent cellulitis in the outpatient setting costs about $586.91 per episode. Although there is no criterion standard for diagnosis or treatment of cellulitis, our analysis demonstrates the need for more evidence-based management to achieve better outcomes and reduce the significant health care costs.
Tannins and the Qualities of Wines

The phenols of grapes and wines are very important as constituents and reactants in these products, as a source of phenols in the human diet, and also as a model for the role of phenolics in other foods and beverages. The scientific and technical literature on wine phenols is extensive and deserves to be better known. Most of the phenols of wine originate in the grape, but some are modified considerably during processing. Individual grape varieties differ considerably, but as a gross estimate of the approximately 4,000 mg/kg of phenols in fresh grapes, about 5 percent is in the juice with about one-third of the remainder in berry skins and two-thirds in the seeds. The juice contains predominantly hydroxycinnamates, notably caftaric acid. The skins contain the anthocyanins from red grapes and other flavonoids including cate-chins and condensed tannins, whereas, the seeds contain predominantly the latter group. These compounds are transferred and modified during winemaking and have marked effects on sensory qualities. Some recent findings regarding oxidations and polymerizations of grape and wine phenols are detailed emphasizing in research in our laboratory. A particularly exciting finding is that anthocyanins solubilize and retain tannins in wines.
Why Valve Opening Pressure Plays a Relatively Minor Role in the Postural ICP Response to Ventricular Shunts in Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus: Modeling and Implications

Objectives In normal pressure hydrocephalus, there is no clear evidence that the opening pressure of differential pressure valves influences outcome. In this study, the objective was to determine whether the relationship between valve opening pressure and postoperative postural ICP changes was predictable.
Surgery for Myocardial Ischemia: Present Indications, Technical Aspects and Results. An Analysis of 26,404 Patients

Between October 1969 and December 31, 1981, 26,404 patients with coronary insufficiency underwent direct myocardial revascularization using aortocoronary bypass (ACB). Among these patients, 21,821 had ACB alone, and the remaining 4,583 had ACB in addition to correction of other cardiac and vascular lesions. In the series of patients having ACB alone, the hospital (early) mortality was 3.0%, with a 2.1% early mortality for 1981. Total (early) mortality was 4.2%, with a 3.9% early mortality for 1981. Total hospital mortality was higher for women (7.3%) than for men (3.9%), but late survival was approximately the same for both sexes.
Praxis as a Keystone for the Philosophy and Professional Ethics of Medicine: The Need for an Arch-Support: Commentary on Toulmin and Wartofsky

I applaud both Toulmin’s and Wartofsky’s moves to praxis, to engage intimately with the phenomena and the concrete practicalities of medicine. They have repudiated Foundationalism with a large “F”—the grand theory; however, I do think they are moving to another foundation (small “f”): Toulmin in philosophy and ethics, and Wartofsky in epistemology. Both illustrate what philosophy qua philosophy brings to medicine, namely, critical reflection, a perspective on ultimacy, and an attempt to grasp its general as well as its particular meanings. Toulmin and Wartofsky are perhaps too reticent about what they, as philosophers, have to contribute to praxis, and perhaps too generous about what praxis can do for philosophy. But they have called our attention to praxis as a keystone; they seem to neglect the arch necessary to support the keystone. Keystones need arches too.
Cardiovascular Screening of Athletes: Focused Exam, Electrocardiograms, and Limited Echocardiograms

The incidence of sudden cardiac death (SCD) in athletes is estimated to occur at a frequency of 1/200,000 athletes per year [.1]. It is postulated that intense exercise predisposes the competitive athlete with previously undetected cardiac disease to lethal rhythm disturbances, and that the risk can be diminished if the athlete is withheld from sports participation.
Creating Transgenic Mouse Models of Photoreceptor Degeneration Caused by Mutations in the Rhodopsin Gene

Photoreceptor dysfunction is the major cause of vision loss in patients with retinitis pigmentosa (RP) -- a heterogeneous group of progressive hereditary retinal degenerative disorders.1 Based on the various clinical attributes of these disorders, the rod photoreceptors have been identified as the primary focus of RP. This concept is strongly supported by the findings of the molecular genetic basis of one form of autosomal dominant RP (ADRP), which is a mutation in the rod photoreceptor-specific rhodopsin gene.2 Recently, mutations in the rds/peripherin gene have been identified in some ADRP patients whose rhodopsin genes are normal,3,4 thereby suggesting that a mutation in the rds/peripherin gene is the primary defect that causes this form of ADRP. (See chapters on the rds/peripherin gene in this volume.)