cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Velocity modulation spectroscopy of molecular ions II: The millimeter/submillimeter-wave spectrum of TiF+ (X3Φr)

The pure rotational spectrum of the molecular ion TiF + in its 3 Ur ground state has been measured in the range 327–542 GHz using millimeter-wave direct absorption techniques combined with velocity modulation spectroscopy. TiF + was made in an AC discharge from a mixture of TiCl4 ,F 2 in He, and argon. Ten transitions of this ion were recorded. In every transition, fluorine hyperfine interactions, as well as the fine structure splittings, were resolved. The fine structure pattern was found to be regular with almost equal spacing in frequency between the three spin components, in contrast to TiCl + , which is perturbed in the ground state. The data were fit with a case (a) Hamiltonian and rotational, fine structure, and hyperfine constants were determined. The bond length established for TiF + , r0 = 1.7775 A ˚ , was found to be shorter than that of TiF, r0 = 1.8342 A ˚ —also established from mm-wave data. The hyperfine parameters determined are consistent with a d 1 p 1 electron configuration with the electrons primarily located on the titanium nucleus. The nuclear spin–orbit constant a indicates that the unpaired electrons are closer to the fluorine nucleus in TiF + relative to TiF, as expected with the decrease in bond length for the ion. The shorter bond distance is thought to arise from increased charge on the titanium nucleus as a
Effects of feeding birdsfoot trefoil hay on neutral detergent fiber digestion, nitrogen utilization efficiency, and lactational performance by dairy cows.

Abstract This experiment was conducted to determine effects of feeding birdsfoot trefoil hay-based diets in comparison with an alfalfa hay-based diet on N utilization efficiency, ruminal fermentation, and lactational performance by mid-lactation dairy cows. Nine multiparous lactating Holstein cows (131±22.6 d in milk), 3 of which were rumen fistulated, were fed 3 experimental diets in a replicated 3×3 Latin square design with 3 periods of 14 d of adaptation and 7 d of data and sample collection. Within squares, cows were randomly assigned to diets as follows: alfalfa hay-based diet (AHT), alfalfa and birdsfoot trefoil hay-based diet (ABT), and birdsfoot trefoil hay-based diet (BT). Intakes of dry matter and crude protein were similar across treatments, whereas ABT and BT diets resulted in decreased fiber intake compared with AHT. Feeding BT tended to increase neutral detergent fiber digestibility compared with AHT and ABT. Milk yield tended to increase for cows consuming ABT or BT diets. Milk true protein concentration and yield were greater for cows consuming ABT relative to those fed AHT. Concentration of total volatile fatty acids tended to increase by cows fed BT compared with those fed AHT and ABT. Feeding birdsfoot trefoil hay in a total mixed ration resulted in a tendency to decrease acetate proportion, but it tended to increase propionate proportion, leading to a tendency to decrease acetate-to-propionate ratio. Whereas concentration of ammonia-N was similar across treatments, cows offered BT exhibited greater microbial protein yield relative to those fed AHT and ABT. Cows offered birdsfoot trefoil hay diets secreted more milk N than AHT, resulting in improved N utilization efficiency for milk N. The positive effects due to feeding birdsfoot trefoil hay were attributed to enhanced neutral detergent fiber digestion, and thus it could replace alfalfa hay in high-forage dairy diets while improving N utilization efficiencies and maintaining lactational performance compared with alfalfa hay.
Optimized power-delay curve generation for standard cell ICs

An effective way to compare logic techniques, logic families, or cell libraries is by means of power (or area) versus delay plots, since the efficiency of achieving a particular delay is of crucial significance. In this paper we describe a method of producing an optimized power versus delay curve for a combinational circuit. We then describe a method for comparing the relative merits of a set of power versus delay curves for a circuit, each generated with a different cell library. Our results indicate that very few combinational functions need to be in a cell library, at most 11. The power-delay points achieved by Design Compiler from Synopsys using the state-of-the-art Artisan Sage-X library compare unfavorably to our approach. In terms of minimum energy-delay product, our approach is superior by 79% on average. Our approach yields the same delay points with a 107% savings in power consumption, on average. We also show that the specified V/sub DD/ for a process technology should only be used for the absolute fastest implementations of a circuit.
Informing the HR Hiring Decision of IT Personnel: The HR Professional's View of IT Certification, Education, & Experience

This study examined the importance of IT Certification from the HR Professional’s perspective, specifically the value of certification in relation to education and experience in a hiring decision. We found that an increase in formal education was subsidized by a decreasing emphasis on experience until a balance was reached. The relative weight of certification, however, was generally stable. A repeated measure analysis showed a statistically significant main effect and interaction effect. An exploratory factor analysis yielded five underlying dimensions which may be possible value drivers of IT certification on HR Professional’s hiring decisions: internal organizational benefits, external organizational benefits, same-job employee benefits, different-job employee benefits, and certification credibility. A mixed-design analysis also yielded five statistically significant interactions which shed further light on possible moderators of the value drivers of certification value: years of management experience and certification perception.
Combining brain computer interfaces with vision for object categorization

Human-aided computing proposes using information measured directly from the human brain in order to perform useful tasks. In this paper, we extend this idea by fusing computer vision-based processing and processing done by the human brain in order to build more effective object categorization systems. Specifically, we use an electroencephalograph (EEG) device to measure the subconscious cognitive processing that occurs in the brain as users see images, even when they are not trying to explicitly classify them. We present a novel framework that combines a discriminative visual category recognition system based on the pyramid match kernel (PMK) with information derived from EEG measurements as users view images. We propose a fast convex kernel alignment algorithm to effectively combine the two sources of information. Our approach is validated with experiments using real-world data, where we show significant gains in classification accuracy. We analyze the properties of this information fusion method by examining the relative contributions of the two modalities, the errors arising from each source, and the stability of the combination in repeated experiments.
Kinetic study of OH radical reaction with n-heptane and n-hexane at 240–340K using the relative rate/discharge flow/mass spectrometry (RR/DF/MS) technique

The kinetics of reactions of OH radical with n-heptane and n-hexane over a temperature range of 240–340K has been investigated using the relative rate combined with discharge flow/mass spectrometry (RR/DF/MS) technique. The rate constant for the reaction of OH radical with n-heptane was measured with both n-octane and n-nonane as references. At 298K, these rate constants were determined to be k1, octane = (6.68 ± 0.48) × 10−12 cm3 molecule−1 s−1 and k1, nonane = (6.64 ± 1.36) × 10−12 cm3 molecule−1 s−1, respectively, which are in very good agreement with the literature values. The rate constant for reaction of n-hexane with the OH radical was determined to be k2 = (4.95 ± 0.40) × 10−12 cm3 molecule−1 s−1 at 298K using n-heptane as a reference. The Arrhenius expression for these chemical reactions have been determined to be k1, octane = (2.25 ± 0.21) × 10−11 exp[(−293 ± 37)/T] and k2 = (2.43 ± 0.52) × 10−11 exp[(−481.2 ± 60)/T], respectively. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 43: 489–497, 2011
Evaluation of 4-methylpyrazole as a potential therapeutic dark adaptation inhibitor.

Purpose: To investigate whether 4-methylpyrazole (4-MP; fomepizole; Antizol), an alcohol dehydrogenase inhibitor that delays dark adaptation in laboratory animals, is a possible pharmaceutical agent for the treatment of Stargardt disease. Methods: Healthy adults were given intravenous infusions of either 4-MP or placebo during six weekly visits to assess effects on dark adaptation. Results: Each participant exhibited a linear, rod-and cone-mediated, log-based response during the initial phase of dark adaptation during both placebo and 4-MP sessions. There were no statistically significant differences between the linear slopes of the 4-MP and placebo testing sessions (α = 0.05). Conclusions: 4-MP does not appear to be a sufficient inhibitor of the human visual cycle to be considered further as a clinical treatment for Stargardt disease or similar ocular disorders at this time; however, additional testing of 4-MP inhibition of production of lipofuscin's A2E fluorophore in mouse models of Stargardt disease i...
Utilization of an electron beam resist process to examine the effects of asymmetric gate recess on the device characteristics of AlGaAs/InGaAs PHEMTs

The DC and microwave characteristics of two sets of AlGaAs/InGaAs PHEMTs having a gate length of 0.2 /spl mu/m are compared. The first set is composed of devices fabricated using a trilayer electron beam resist process for T-gate recess and metallization. The second set is composed of devices fabricated using a new four-layer electron beam resist process which enables the asymmetric placement of a T-gate in a wide recess trench. Devices fabricated using the four-layer resist process showed improved breakdown voltage, lower gate-drain feedback capacitance, lower output conductance, and higher f/sub max/ with only slight reduction of drain current and transconductance. For example, the off-state drain-source breakdown voltage increased from 5.2 to 12.5 V, and the f/sub max/, increased from 133 to 158 GHz as the drain side cap recess, L/sub ud/, was increased from 0 to 0.55 /spl mu/m.
Charles darwin and the crisis of ecology: A rhetorical perspective

Rhetorical critics need to be sensitive to the broader possibilities of their role as accessory to the historian. In addition to analyzing persuasive works in relationship to the initial audiences to which they were addressed rhetorical critics might also profitably examine message levels ignored by initial audiences but which may potentially be very meaningful to later ones. Darwin's Origin of Species is here treated not as a work of the past but as a contemporary document whose message about man and the environment is significant for our time.
Estimation of software reliability by stratified sampling

A new approach to software reliability estimation is presented that combines operational testing with stratified sampling in order to reduce the number of program executions that must be checked manually for conformance to requirements. Automatic cluster analysis is applied to execution profiles in order to stratify captured operational executions. Experimental results are reported that suggest this approach can significantly reduce the cost of estimating reliability.
Blueprint for a Successful Dairy Expansion

Increased competition in the US dairy industry has created the opportunity for many dairy producers to lower costs, increase productivity, and realize greater profits. One way to achieve this goal is through a major expansion in herd size, but expansions are also fraught with risks. Poor planning can result in cash flow problems, inadequate financing, or lack of the management resources needed for a successful expansion. The objective of this paper was to develop a guideline for dairy producers to follow in implementing a successful expansion plan. This blueprint requires producers to follow through on a number of critical phases: planning, implementation, and management. Planning involves assessing family goals and developing a written business plan. Implementation involves financing, construction, and start-up procedures as well as developing a management team. Management involves managing a labor force, directing resources, and using cash flow planning and financial management tools. Following this blueprint should help producers minimize risk and achieve the goals stated in their business plans.
A Structure Property Processing Comparison of Cold rolled PM Copper and Cold Gas Dynamically Sprayed Copper

Cold gas dynamic spray processing (cold spray) is a solid-state material deposition process used for coating and repair processes in many alloy systems. Cold spray has long been proposed as a potential method for freeform fabrication. The cold spray process imparts great deformation to the impacting particles, affecting the final properties of the deposit through work hardening, grain refinement and inter-particle bonding. For the purpose of demonstrating the feasibility of cold spray as a viable freeform fabrication method, the microstructure and hardness of bulk cold sprayed samples were characterized in as received and annealed condition, then compared to cold rolled material, which was previously vacuum hot pressed from the same powder stock used in spraying. Microstructure was analyzed via scanning electron microscopy and electron channeling contrast imaging to assess grain refinement and thermal annealing response in the cold sprayed and cold rolled materials. Vickers micro hardness was measured to assess the effects of cold spray impact on the properties of bulk, as-sprayed copper relative to cold rolled copper. In postannealed materials, greater hardness is achieved with the cold spray process through the suspected mechanism of grain refinement unachievable in the rolling process.
Mivacurium chloride and myasthenia gravis

We describe the successful use of the short-acting, non-depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agent, mivacurium, in a patient with myasthenia gravis taking pyridostigmine 120 mg four times daily. Increased sensitivity to mivacurium was demonstrated using train-of-four monitoring. A dose of 0.5 times the recommended ED95 (3.0 mg) resulted in 93% block of T1. Spontaneous recovery was prolonged with a recovery index (25%–75% T1) of 20.5 min. Residual block was antagonized without difficulty using neostigmine 2.5 mg. We discuss the relationship between plasma cholinesterase, acetylcholinesterase and anticholinesterase drugs. (Br. J. Anaesth. 1994; 72: 468–469)
Integrated microscopy for real-time imaging of mechanotransduction studies in live cells

Mechanical force is an important stimulus and determinant of many vascular smooth muscle cell functions including contraction, proliferation, migration, and cell attachment. Transmission of force from outside the cell through focal adhesions controls the dynamics of these adhesion sites and initiates intracellular signaling cascades that alter cellular behavior. To understand the mechanism by which living cells sense mechanical forces, and how they respond and adapt to their environment, a critical first step is to develop a new technology to investigate cellular behavior at subcellular level that integrates an atomic force microscope (AFM) with total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) and fast-spinning disk (FSD) confocal microscopy, providing high spatial and temporal resolution. AFM uses a nanosensor to measure the cell surface topography and can apply and measure mechanical force with high precision. TIRF microscopy is an optical imaging technique that provides high-contrast images with high z-resolution of fluorescently labeled molecules in the immediate vicinity of the cell-coverslip interface. FSD confocal microscopy allows rapid 3-D imaging throughout the cell in real time. The integrated system is broadly applicable across a wide range of molecular dynamic studies in any adherent live cells, allowing direct optical imaging of cell responses to mechanical stimulation in real time.
Multiple effects of KPQ deletion mutation on gating of human cardiac Na+ channels expressed in mammalian cells

Several aspects of the effect of the KPQ deletion mutation on Na+ channel gating remain unresolved. We have analyzed the kinetics of the early and late currents by recording whole cell and single-c...
Comparison of Managerial Communication Patterns in Small, Entrepreneurial Organizations and Large, Mature Organizations

This article reports a comparison of managerial communication patterns in small and large organizations. Semistructured interviews were conducted of 23 mid-level managers from 20 large, mature orga...
The “Sesame Street” Challenge

Considering the success of the children's television program, “Sesame Street,” the authors suggest that it may be feasible to program language stimulation activities in a similar manner. A challenge to the field of learning disabilities is presented in terms of (1) investigating the need for such a program, (2) arriving at the most beneficial approach to language stimulation, and (3) recommending a course of action.
The Microbiome in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Current Status and the Future Ahead

Studies of the roles of microbial communities in the development of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have reached an important milestone. A decade of genome-wide association studies and other genetic analyses have linked IBD with loci that implicate an aberrant immune response to the intestinal microbiota. More recently, profiling studies of the intestinal microbiome have associated the pathogenesis of IBD with characteristic shifts in the composition of the intestinal microbiota, reinforcing the view that IBD results from altered interactions between intestinal microbes and the mucosal immune system. Enhanced technologies can increase our understanding of the interactions between the host and its resident microbiota and their respective roles in IBD from both a large-scale pathway view and at the metabolic level. We review important microbiome studies of patients with IBD and describe what we have learned about the mechanisms of intestinal microbiota dysfunction. We describe the recent progress in microbiome research from exploratory 16S-based studies, reporting associations of specific organisms with a disease, to more recent studies that have taken a more nuanced view, addressing the function of the microbiota by metagenomic and metabolomic methods. Finally, we propose study designs and methodologies for future investigations of the microbiome in patients with inflammatory gut and autoimmune diseases in general.
Confirmation of linkage to ocular refraction on chromosome 22q and identification of a novel linkage region on 1q.

Objective To localize genes influencing ocular refraction in subjects in the Beaver Dam Eye Study. Previous studies establish that myopia clusters within families and linkage to myopia has been demonstrated on 2q, 4q, 12q, 17q, 18q, 22q, and Xq. Few studies have examined genetic effects across the entire range of refraction, though linkages to 1p, 3q, 4q, 8p, and 11p have been reported, and our previous analysis of the Beaver Dam Eye Study demonstrated substantial heritability for refraction (68%). Methods We conducted nonparametric sibling-pair and genome-wide linkage analyses on spherical equivalent adjusting for age, education, and nuclear sclerosis, in 834 sibling pairs in 486 extended pedigrees. Results We identified a novel region of suggestive linkage on 1q (multipoint, P P = .0033) previously linked to myopia. Additionally, there was some evidence of linkage to 7p (multipoint, P = .0023). Conclusion Refraction is a complex trait influenced by both genes and environment. Our work confirms a previously reported linkage region on 22q and identifies 2 novel regions of linkage on 1q and 7p. Clinical Relevance Further, genetic research is needed to finemap this trait to identify the causative gene. Modifying the actions of such a gene might lead to a reduction in the risk of refractive error.
"Life is not worth living": hopelessness in Alzheimer's disease.

This study investigated the prevalence and clinical correlates of hopelessness among 91 patients diagnosed with probable Alzheimer's disease (AD) according to National Institute of Neurological Communicative Disorders and Stroke-Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders Association criteria. Hopeless ideation was measured with Item 3 on the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (Suicide), which inquires specifically whether the patient thinks "life is not worth living." The results showed that hopelessness was present in 10% (n = 9) of the sample. Patients with these cognitions evidenced greater psychological symptoms of mood disturbance and more insight into their cognitive and functional impairments. Unrelated factors included age, education, Mini-Mental State Examination score, neurovegetative signs of depression, affective expressions of depression, agitation/disinhibition, and psychosis. Although indifference is frequent in AD, these results indicate that thoughts of hopelessness are also a common phenomenon, occurring in approximately 10% of our probable AD cohort. These thoughts appear to be related to the subjective expressions of depression and anxiety rather than the neurovegetative or affective signs and are more prominent among patients with greater deficit awareness.
The interferometer array in radio astronomy

The need for extremely high angular resolution in radio astronomy has led to the development of antenna techniques which differ widely from those in use in the broadcasting, radar, and communication services. Early high-resolution radio telescopes utilized phased arrays, sometimes in combination with correlation techniques in which the fan beams of two orthogonal, linear arrays were effectively multiplied to produce a pencil beam of relatively high resolution. An example of this is the Xills Cross, pioneered in Australia in the 1950's and widely adopted elsewhere. Another example was the synthesis interferometer of Ryle and his colleagues at Cambridge, which combined phased-array and aperture-synthesis techniques to produce an instrument capable of high angular resolution on discrete sources but insensitive to the wideangle interference from the galactic background. These methods were developed at meter wavelength to have angular resolutions of the order of one minute of arc.
Combining Multiple Forms of Evidence While Filtering

This paper studies how to go beyond relevance and enable a filtering system to learn more interesting and detailed data driven user models from multiple forms of evidence. We carry out a user study using a real time web based personal news filtering system, and collect extensive multiple forms of evidence, including explicit and implicit user feedback. We explore the graphical modeling approach to combine these forms of evidence. To test whether the approach can help us understand the domain better, we use graph structure learning algorithm to derive the causal relationships between different forms of evidence. To test whether the approach can help the system improve the performance, we use the graphical inference algorithms to predict whether a user likes a document based on multiple forms of evidence. The results show that combining multiple forms of evidence using graphical models can help us better understand the filtering problem, improve filtering system performance, and handle various data missing situations naturally.
Characterization and Membrane Stability Study for the Switchable Polarity Solvent N,N-Dimethylcyclohexylamine as a Draw Solute in Forward Osmosis

Abstract Commercially available reverse osmosis and forward osmosis thin-film composite membranes were assessed for long-term chemical stability when immersed in 10 molal N,N -dimethylcyclohexylammonium hydrogen carbonate draw solution, a model switchable polarity solvent draw solute for forward osmosis. Membrane performance was monitored with reverse osmosis testing, including rejection of 2000 ppm sodium chloride (NaCl), for three commercial reverse osmosis membranes—Dow BW30, SW30HR, and SW30HR with polyester backing layer removed—and a commercial forward osmosis membrane (HTI TFC). The RO membranes were observed to be largely unaffected by exposures up to 90 days while the HTI TFC suffered a sharp increase in both water permeance and sodium chloride permeability, manifesting itself as a reduction in intrinsic rejection of NaCl from 95% to 82%. The as-received HTI TFC membrane was characterized for osmotic water flux, where it was found the water flux was very insensitive to draw solute concentration in both the pressure-retarded osmosis and forward osmosis operating modes. Reverse permeation of the draw solute was highly variable, despite lower variability in the forward water flux. Forward osmosis desalination of a 0.5 molal sodium chloride feed with the HTI TFC membrane and 10 molal draw solution indicated higher rejection (ca. 98.7) than under reverse osmosis testing, albeit with lower flux and the presence of reverse permeation of the draw solute. The overall results imply that a forward osmosis membrane with acceptable tolerance to switchable polarity solvent draw solutions can be developed within the existing framework of polyamide-on-polysulfone membrane chemistry.
The Eminence of Imminence and the Myopia of Markets

This article questions the privileging of disaster, or imminent threat, over more distant threats to public health. In many cases, this privileging makes sense as we do not have time to evaluate the threat under traditional frameworks. But in some cases, we privilege disaster in ways that may be ethically and legally unsound. Here I am interested in a particular type of public health threat – the negative consequences that stem from climate change. In this article I view the climate change discussion through the lens of distributive justice. I analyze the ethical as well as legal arguments for encouraging clean technology patent-holders to share their know-how and devices at a discounted rate with people in the developing world.
TRAIT SPORT CONFIDENCE, GOAL ORIENTATION AND COMPETITIVE EXPERIENCE OF FEMALE COLLEGIATE VOLLEYBALL PLAYERS

The purpose of this study was to examine associations among 66 volleyball players' trait sport confidence, goal orientation, i.e., task or ego, age, upper (junior, senior) or lower (sophomore, freshman) class standing, years of NCAA Division II collegiate volleyball experience, and total years of competitive volleyball experience. Athletes who scored task-oriented and of upper-class standing, i.e., junior or senior in college, had a greater total number of years of competitive volleyball experience than ego-oriented, upper-class standing athletes. Athletes who scored ego-oriented were more likely to have a lower class standing and be younger, and have fewer years of NCAA Division II experience than the task-oriented athletes. Athletes who scored task-oriented had more years of competitive volleyball experience and scored higher on trait sport confidence than ego-oriented athletes.
Analysis on complications and pregnancy outcome of cases with early onset preeclampsia

Objective:To understand the occurrence of complications and characteristics of pregnancy outcome of cases with early onset preeclampsia.Methods:60 patients with early onset preeclampsia who were treated in the hospital from January 2009 to December 2010 were selected,then they were divided into group A(32 patients,gestational weeks of onset28 weeks) and group B(28 patients,gestational weeks of onset28 weeks) according to the onset time of early onset preeclampsia.Results:In group A,the average time to terminate pregnancy was(29.3±2.8) gestational weeks,the average time of expectant treatment was(9.0±2.4) days,which were significantly less than those in group((33.6±1.8) gestational weeks and(12.1±2.3) days)(P0.05);the cesarean section rate in group A was 15.6%,which was significantly lower than that in group B(P0.05);there was significant difference in perinatal outcomes(the incidence of intrauterine fetal death,neonatal mortality,perinatal mortality and the transfer rate of perinatal infants into NICU) between the two groups(P0.05).There was no significant difference in the incidences of complications between the two groups(P0.05).Conclusion:The patients with early onset preeclampsia are severe,and they have many complications,the survival rate of perinatal infants is low.When the patients with early onset preeclampsia get pregnancy again,they should be pretreated according to the condition to delay the progression of the disease,under the circumstance of ensuring maternal safety,the survival rate of perinatal infants should be improved to the greatest extent.
Death causes of children aged under 14 during 2003-2007 in Ningbo City,Zhejiang Province

Objective To explore death causes of children in Ningbo city in recent years,so as to provide reference for its intervention.Methods Based on Ningbo residents death statements provided by the centers for disease control in Ningbo city,statistical data of death in children aged under 14 in the year 2003 to 2007 were analyzed.ResultsThe top four reasons causing children's death in Ningbo are accidents,the perinatal factors,congenital malformation chromosomal abnormalities and tumors. Mortality falls gradually during the five years,especially with the perinatal factors and tumors.The constituent ratios of congenital malformation chromosome abnormality of death is slightly rising.Conclusion Based on the perinatal care during pregnancy,the emphasis should be placed on prevention of accidents and fetal prenatal diagnosis in order to reduce child mortality.The whole society should take all comprehensive measures to strengthen awareness,and prevent children from accidental injury incidence and mortality.The widely-used ultrasound examination can help to improve the level of diagnosis.
Sequential pattern classification without explicit feature extraction

Feature selection, representation and extraction are integral to statistical pattern recognition systems. Usually features are represented as vectors that capture expert knowledge of measurable discriminative properties of the classes to be distinguished. The feature selection process entails manual expert involvement and repeated experiments. Automatic feature selection is necessary when (i) expert knowledge is unavailable, (ii) distinguishing features among classes cannot be quantified, or (iii) when a fixed length feature description cannot faithfully reflect all possible variations of the classes as in the case of sequential patterns (e.g. time series data). Automatic feature selection and extraction are also useful when developing pattern recognition systems that are scalable across new sets of classes. For example, an OCR designed with explicit feature selection process for the alphabet of one language usually does not scale to an alphabet of another language. One approach to avoiding explicit feature selection is to use a (dis)similarity representation instead of a feature vector representation. The training set is represented by a similarity matrix and new objects are classified based on their similarity with samples in the training set. A suitable similarity measure can also be used to increase the classification efficiency of traditional classifiers such as Support Vector Machines (SVMs). In this thesis we establish new techniques for sequential pattern recognition without explicit feature extraction for applications where: (i) a robust similarity measure exists to distinguish classes and (ii) the classifier (such as SVM) utilizes a similarity measure for both training and evaluation. We investigate the use of similarity measures for applications such as on-line signature verification and on-line handwriting recognition. Paucity of training samples can render the traditional training methods ineffective as in the case of on-line signatures where the number of training samples is rarely greater than 10. We present a new regression measure (ER 2) that can classify multi-dimensional sequential patterns without the need for training with large number of prototypes. We use ER 2 as a preprocessing filter in cases when sufficient training prototypes are available in order to speedup the SVM evaluation. We demonstrate the efficacy of a two stage recognition system by using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Recursive Feature Elimination (RFE) in the supervised classification framework of SVM. We present experiments with off-line digit images where the pixels are simply ordered in a predetermined manner to simulate sequential patterns. The Generalized Regression Model (GRM) is described to deal with the unsupervised classification (clustering) of sequential patterns.
Recursive Estimation for Normal (or Expected) Returns

Given that the updating information continue flowing into the capital market, modification on the model specifications of systematic components of normal returns are necessary for further discussions on firm-specific abnormal returns. In this chapter, since all models that approximate normal returns are prone to time-varying parameters, some recursive estimation methods are shown to cope with this nature. Given that the systematic components of asset returns can be approximated by proposed (time-varying coefficient) theoretical models of nondiversifiable variables or proxies, all the model specifications are similar to the adaptive filters for the data stream.
Structural identifiability of equilibrium ligand-binding parameters

Understanding the interactions of proteins with their ligands requires knowledge of molecular properties, such as binding site affinities and the effects that binding at one site exerts on binding at other sites (cooperativity). These properties cannot be measured directly and are usually estimated by fitting binding data with models that contain these quantities as parameters. In this study, we present a general method for answering the critical question of whether these parameters are identifiable (i.e., whether their estimates are accurate and unique). In cases in which parameter estimates are not unique, our analysis provides insight into the fundamental causes of nonidentifiability. This approach can thus serve as a guide for the proper design and analysis of protein-ligand binding experiments. We show that the equilibrium total binding relation can be reduced to a conserved mathematical form for all models composed solely of bimolecular association reactions and to a related, conserved form for all models composed of arbitrary combinations of binding and conformational equilibria. This canonical mathematical structure implies a universal parameterization of the binding relation that is consistent with virtually any physically reasonable binding model, for proteins with any number of binding sites. Matrix algebraic methods are used to prove that these universal parameter sets are structurally identifiable (SI; i.e., identifiable under conditions of noiseless data). A general approach for assessing and understanding the factors governing practical identifiability (i.e., the identifiability under conditions of real, noisy data) of these SI parameter sets is presented in the companion paper by Middendorf and Aldrich (2017. J. Gen. Physiol. https://doi.org/10.1085/jgp.201611703).
The effect of poverty-influenced, food-related consumer behaviors on obesity: An analysis of the NHANES flexible consumer behavioral module.

ABSTRACTDespite extensive research investigating obesity, the problem continues to increase, particularly in poor, minority, and under-resourced communities. However, the literature continues to demonstrate many obesity-predicating variables are outside of personal volitional control, such as food-related consumer behaviors, which are strongly influenced by income and environment. This cross-sectional study (n = 5,109) employed secondary data analysis to quantitatively examine the effect of food-related consumer variables on obesity while controlling for covariates. Participants answered questions regarding money spent on food, time preparing meals, number of meals eaten at home and away from home, and types of food products consumed (frozen/fast foods, sodas, salty snacks, etc.) In this study, 48.9% of respondents were either overweight or obese. No significant differences were noted between the contextual variables examined and BMI scores. However, given the sample’s limitations illuminated in the study...
FDA analysis of MRD data in hematologic malignancy applications.

2541Background: There is considerable interest in the use of minimal residual disease (MRD) in clinical trials of hematologic malignancies, especially as a potential surrogate endpoint to expedite ...
Inorganic Cr-free conversion coatings for high corrosion resistance and low electrical contact resistance

Many military applications require that conversion coatings for aluminum alloys provide high corrosion resistance while retaining low electrical contact resistance. In this paper, the performance requirements for Class 1A and Class 3 conversion coatings established in Military Specifications MIL-C-81706 and MIL-C-5541E are summarized. The corrosion resistance and electrical contact resistance of actual Class 1A and Class 3 coatings are presented. Results show that the required levels of performance are usually achieved on wrought alloys, but not on cast alloys. The corrosion resistance and electrical contact resistance of Cr-free conversion coatings has also been examined. Results indicate that the required performance levels are rarely achieved on any type of alloy substrate. Last, corrosion and electrical properties of coatings formed using methods based on low-toxicity alkaline oxide coatings procedures are described. Results from initial attempts to produce highly corrosion resistant coatings with low electrical resistance are presented.
Locally Corrected Nyström to Moment Method Conversion for Volume Integral Equations

In this paper, a technique to convert a locally corrected Nystrom discretization into a moment method discretization is detailed. The method is general and does not rely directly on any specific relationship between the basis functions used to compute the local corrections and the basis and test functions used in the moment method. The technique is applied to a quasi-magnetostatic volume integral equation for both interpolatory and algebraically constrained moment method bases. Numerical results for a variety of problems in terms of error convergence, system condition number, and degrees-of-freedom are provided.
Preclinical Evaluation of 203/212Pb-Labeled Low-Molecular-Weight Compounds for Targeted Radiopharmaceutical Therapy of Prostate Cancer

Targeted radiopharmaceutical therapy (TRT) using α-particle radiation is a promising approach for treating both large and micrometastatic lesions. We developed prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)–targeted low-molecular-weight agents for 212Pb-based TRT of patients with prostate cancer (PC) by evaluating the matching γ-emitting surrogate, 203Pb. Methods: Five rationally designed low-molecular-weight ligands (L1-L5) were synthesized using the lysine-urea-glutamate scaffold, and PSMA inhibition constants were determined. Tissue biodistribution and SPECT/CT imaging of 203Pb-L1–203Pb-L5 were performed on mice bearing PSMA(+) PC3 PIP and PSMA(−) PC3 flu flank xenografts. The absorbed radiation dose of the corresponding 212Pb-labeled analogs was determined using the biodistribution data. Antitumor efficacy of 212Pb-L2 was evaluated in PSMA(+) PC3 PIP and PSMA(−) PC3 flu tumor models and in the PSMA(+) luciferase-expressing micrometastatic model. 212Pb-L2 was also evaluated for dose-escalated, long-term toxicity. Results: All new ligands were obtained in high yield and purity. PSMA inhibitory activities ranged from 0.10 to 17 nM. 203Pb-L1–203Pb-L5 were synthesized in high radiochemical yield and specific activity. Whole-body clearance of 203Pb-L1–203Pb-L5 was fast. The absorbed dose coefficients (mGy/kBq) of the tumor and kidneys were highest for 203Pb-L5 (31.0, 15.2) and lowest for 203Pb-L2 (8.0, 4.2). The tumor-to-kidney absorbed dose ratio was higher for 203Pb-L3 (3.2) and 203Pb-L4 (3.6) than for the other agents, but with lower tumor-to-blood ratios. PSMA(+) tumor lesions were visualized through SPECT/CT as early as 0.5 h after injection. A proof-of-concept therapy study with a single administration of 212Pb-L2 demonstrated dose-dependent inhibition of tumor growth in the PSMA(+) flank tumor model. 212Pb-L2 also demonstrated an increased survival benefit in the micrometastatic model compared with 177Lu-PSMA-617. Long-term toxicity studies in healthy, immunocompetent CD-1 mice revealed kidney as the dose-limiting organ. Conclusion:203Pb-L1–203Pb-L5 demonstrated favorable pharmacokinetics for 212Pb-based TRT. The antitumor efficacy of 212Pb-L2 supports the corresponding 203Pb/212Pb theranostic pair for PSMA-based α-particle TRT in advanced PC.
Inflammatory bowel disease and gastrointestinal disorders

Abstract Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are chronic, autoimmune diseases of the gastrointestinal tract without a known cure. Symptoms vary and disease courses fluctuate between flares in disease activity and periods of remission. IBD is often diagnosed in adolescence and young adulthood, although rates in young children are increasing. Treatment of IBD is complex and can involve a combination of oral medications, infusions, subcutaneous injections, surgical interventions, and healthcare maintenance tasks (e.g., vitamin and mineral supplementation, dietary modifications, promoting health-related quality of life). The following chapter discusses guiding theories of self-management in pediatric IBD and provides an overview of evidence-based assessment and evidence-based adherence promotion interventions, as well as case studies exemplifying the individual nature of the illness. The authors call for future research to examine self-management beyond a focus on medication adherence via larger, multisite trials aimed at understanding mechanisms of improvements that lead to better health outcomes.
Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptors as Targets for Radiosensitization in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinomas.

Purpose We examined the capacity of the pan-fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) inhibitor AZD4547 to augment radiation response across a panel of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cell lines and xenografts. Methods and Materials FGFR1, FGFR2, and FGFR3 RNA in situ hybridization expression was assessed in a cohort of HNSCC patient samples, cell lines, and patient-derived xenografts (PDXs). In vitro effects of AZD4547 and radiation on cell survival, FGFR signaling, apoptosis, autophagy, cell cycle, and DNA damage repair were evaluated. Reverse phase protein array was used to identify differentially phosphorylated proteins in cells treated with AZD4547. In vivo tumor responses were evaluated in cell lines and PDX models. Results FGFR1, FGFR2, and FGFR3 RNA in situ hybridization were expressed in 41%, 81%, and 89% of 107 oropharynx patient samples. Sensitivity to AZD4547 did not directly correlate with FGFR protein or RNA expression. In sensitive cell lines, AZD4547 inhibited p-MAPK in a time-dependent manner. Significant radiosensitization with AZD4547 was observed in cell lines that were sensitive to AZD4547. The mechanism underlying these effects appears to be multifactorial, involving inhibition of the MTOR pathway and subsequent enhancement of autophagy and activation of apoptotic pathways. Significant tumor growth delay was observed when AZD4547 was combined with radiation compared with radiation or drug alone in an FGFR-expressing HNSCC cell line xenograft and PDX. Conclusions These findings suggest that AZD4547 can augment the response of radiation in FGFR-expressing HNSCC in vivo model systems. FGFR1 and FGFR2 may prove worthy targets for radiosensitization in HNSCC clinical investigations.
An Active Learning Classroom in Construction Management Education: Student Perceptions of Engagement and Learning

Learning spaces that engage students actively are becoming more common. Active learning spaces are designed to facilitate collaboration between students as they engage in problem solving, communica...
Gardner's syndrome: report of a case.

A case of Gardner's syndrome is presented. A spontaneous mutation of a skipped generation must be postulated. The case demonstrates how the true diagnosis can be suspected long before the appearance of the colonic polyps. The presence of widely distributed epidermal inclusion cysts and osteomas should alert the physician to the possible eventual development of polyposis. Patience and perseverance in the proctologic examinations of the patient were rewarded by early diagnosis and prompt treatment of the lethal aspect of this syndrome. Screening of the kindred for possible colonic polyps is an obligation.
Surgical Field Visualization during Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery: Comparison of Propofol- vs Desflurane-Based Anesthesia:

ObjectiveTo assess if the type of general anesthetic affects bleeding and field visualization during endoscopic sinus surgery.Study DesignProspective, randomized, controlled trial.SettingAcademic t...
Larotrectinib and Entrectinib: TRK Inhibitors for the Treatment of Pediatric and Adult Patients With NTRK Gene Fusion

Two new targeted agents have been approved for pediatric and adult patients with advanced or metastatic solid tumors with neurotrophic receptor tyrosine kinase (NTRK) gene fusion without an acquired resistance mutation. Larotrectinib and entrectinib are the second and third agents to be approved as tissue agnostic treatments, respectively. NTRK gene fusion is now a targetable biomarker for patients who may otherwise be devoid of satisfactory alternative treatment options. In this article, the safety and efficacy trials of each medication, and the initial and ongoing monitoring required for patients on these treatments will be discussed.
Neuroendocrine control of lipid metabolism: lessons from C. elegans

This review article highlights our efforts to decode the role of the nervous system in regulating intestinal lipid metabolism in Caenorhabditis elegans. Capitalizing on the prescient and pioneering work of Sydney Brenner and John Sulston in establishing C. elegans as an immensely valuable model system, we have uncovered critical roles for oxygen sensing, population density sensing and food sensing in orchestrating the balance between storing lipids and utilizing them for energy in the intestine, the major organ for lipid metabolism in this model system. Our long-term goal is to reveal the integrative mechanisms and regulatory logic that underlies the complex relationship between genes, environment and internal state in the regulation of energy and whole-body physiology.