cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Last Great Hope for Transforming the Lives of Girls: The Rhetorics of Girls’ Education in Upper Egypt

Over the last two decades, international development work in Egypt has focused on enhancing the status of women and girls through fostering agency and empowering communities. In 2001, Population Council, a large international nongovernmental organization, designed and implemented Ishraq (Sunrise), a 20-month second-chance school program offering literacy and life skills training to adolescent girls in rural Upper Egypt. Drawing on ethnographic fieldwork conducted in Egypt over a 3-year period, this chapter explores how Ishraq enhances the experiences of program staff and teachers at the expense of its former participants. Despite the agency and empowerment claims made in documents and by teachers and staff, Ishraq does not account for the historical, sociocultural, and structural conditions that have come to shape the experiences of girls living in rural Upper Egypt. This chapter also examines colonial-era schooling practices and their relationship to broad policy reforms in rural Egypt during the late-modern and contemporary periods. These historical and textual analyses illustrate how Ishraq’s advocacy for the reform of local “culture” affects the experiences of teachers, students, and program staff in uneven ways. This critical poststructural analysis of the research findings suggests Ishraq furthers the existing divide between rural and urban communities in Upper Egypt.
The ubiquity of asymptomatic respiratory viral infections in the tonsils and adenoids of children and their impact on airway obstruction.

Abstract Background Airway obstruction due to enlargement of tonsils and adenoids is a common pediatric problem resulting in sleep disordered breathing. The cause for the relatively abnormal growth of tonsils and adenoids is poorly understood. Methods Non-acutely ill children undergoing tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy (T&A) for various reasons were enrolled prospectively in a study to determine the frequency of asymptomatic respiratory viral infections in each lymphoid tissue and to relate the number and types of virus to the degree of airway obstruction. Molecular techniques were used to detect 9 respiratory viruses while Brodsky scores and measurements of percentages airway obstruction were used to estimate the degree of airway compromise due to the tonsil and adenoid, respectively. Results Viruses were detected in 70.9% of tonsils and 94.7% of adenoids, p Conclusions Asymptomatic viral infections are common and directly related to the degree of airway obstruction significantly more often in adenoids than tonsils.
Perinatal regionalization: a geospatial view of perinatal critical care, United States, 2010–2013

Background Perinatal services exist today as a dyad of maternal and neonatal care. When perinatal care is fragmented or unavailable, excess morbidity and mortality may occur in pregnant women and newborns. Objective The objective of the study was to describe spatial relationships between women of reproductive age, individual perinatal subspecialists (maternal-fetal medicine and neonatology), and obstetric and neonatal critical care facilities in the United States to identify gaps in health care access. Study Design We used geographic visualization and conducted surface interpolation, nearest neighbor, and proximity analyses. Source data included 2010 US Census, October 2013 National Provider Index, 2012 American Hospital Association, 2012 National Center for Health Statistics Natality File, and the 2011 American Academy of Pediatrics directory. Results In October 2013, there were 2.5 neonatologists for every maternal-fetal medicine specialist in the United States. In 2012 there were 1.4 level III or higher neonatal intensive care units for every level III obstetric unit (hereafter, obstetric critical care unit). Nationally, 87% of women of reproductive age live within 50 miles of both an obstetric critical care unit and a neonatal intensive care unit. However, 18% of obstetric critical care units had no neonatal intensive care unit, and 20% of neonatal intensive care units had no obstetric critical care unit within a 10 mile radius. Additionally, 26% of obstetric critical care units had no maternal-fetal medicine specialist practicing within 10 miles of the facility, and 4% of neonatal intensive care units had no neonatologist practicing within 10 miles. Conclusion Gaps in access and discordance between the availability of level III or higher obstetric and neonatal care may affect the delivery of risk-appropriate care for high-risk maternal fetal dyads. Further study is needed to understand the importance of these gaps and discordance on maternal and neonatal outcomes.
Scaling Thermal Properties from the Leaf to the Canopy in the Alaskan Arctic Tundra

ABSTRACT Plants are strongly influenced by their thermal environments, and this influence manifests itself in a variety of ways, such as altered ranges, growth, morphology, or physiology. However, plants also modify their local thermal environments through feedbacks related to properties and processes such as albedo and evapotranspiration. Here, we used leaf- and plot- level thermography on the north slope of the Brooks Range, Alaska, to explore interspecific differences in thermal properties among arctic tundra plants, and to determine if species differentially contribute to plot temperature. At the leaf-level, we found significant differences (p < 0.05) for in situ temperatures among the 13 study species. At the plot level, we found that the fractional cover of vascular plant species, lichen, litter, and moss had a significant effect on plot temperature (p < 0.05, R2= 0.61). A second model incorporating thermal leaf properties—in addition to the fraction of vascular plant and other dominant ground cover...
Yield spread and the income distribution

Abstract The yield spread is known to be closely related with business cycles identified by the National Bureau of Economic Research. It is low near peaks and high near troughs. This paper builds on this known relationship and examines the response of the income distribution in the U.S. due to variation in the yield spread. The purpose is to identify the significance and sign of the impact changes in economic conditions have on the distribution of income over the period 1927–2011. Clark and McCracken’s (2001) 1-step ahead encompassing tests from nested linear models are initially estimated to determine the predictive power of the yield spread on the distribution of income. Results strongly reject the null hypothesis that the yield spread has no predictive content for changes in the distribution of income. Specifically, increases in the yield spread are found to correspond with subsequent increases in top income shares.
Distance, services, and citizen perceptions of the state in rural Africa

In most poor countries, basic services in rural areas are less accessible and of lower quality than those in urban settings. In this article, we investigate the subnational geography of service delivery and its relationship with citizens' perceptions of their government by analyzing the relationship between service access, satisfaction with services and government, and the distance to urban centers for more than 21,000 survey respondents across 17 African countries. We confirm that access to services and service satisfaction suffer from a spatial gradient. However, distant citizens are less likely than their urban peers to translate service dissatisfaction into discontent with their government; distant citizens have more trust in government and more positive evaluations of both local and national officials. Our findings suggest that increasing responsiveness and accountability to citizens as a means of improving remote rural services may face more limits than promoters of democratic governance and citizen-centered accountability presume.
Triple-point wetting of H2 films adsorbed on silver.

The wetting behavior of ${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$ films adsorbed on silver was studied with a quartz-crystal microbalance. Below the triple-point temperature ${T}_{t}$, incomplete-wetting films are observed, while above it the liquid films completely wet the substrate. Within the experimental resolution the wetting transition occurs at ${T}_{t}$. The maximum frequency change at saturation (which corresponds to the film thickness at saturation) increases as the temperature approaches ${T}_{t}$, obeying a power law of the form \ensuremath{\Delta}${f}_{0}$\ensuremath{\propto}${t}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1/n}$, with n=3.28\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.3 and t=(${T}_{t}$-T)/${T}_{t}$. The shape of the isotherms suggests the presence of two-phase films above and below the triple point.
Exceptionally High Ionic Conductivity in Na 3 P 0.62 As 0.38 S 4 with Improved Moisture Stability for Solid-State Sodium-Ion Batteries

A Na-ion solid-state electrolyte, Na3 P0.62 As0.38 S4 , is developed with an exceptionally high conductivity of 1.46 mS cm-1 at 25 °C and enhanced moisture stability. Dual effects of alloying element As (lattice expansion and a weaker AsS bond strength) are responsible for the superior conductivity. Improved moisture stability is regulated by shifting low-energy moisture reactions to high-energy ones due to As.
On the survival of humanity

What moral reasons, if any, do we have to ensure the long-term survival of humanity? This article contrastively explores two answers to this question: according to the first, we should ensure the survival of humanity because we have reason to maximize the number of happy lives that are ever lived, all else equal. According to the second, seeking to sustain humanity into the future is the appropriate response to the final value of humanity itself. Along the way, the article discusses various issues in population axiology, particularly the so-called Intuition of Neutrality and John Broome’s ‘greediness objection’ to this intuition.
Introduction: Agency and Control

For most people, control has some intrinsic value; people care about maintaining it and will pay something to do so. Whenever a private or public institution blocks choices or interferes with agency, some people will rebel, even if exercising control would not result in material benefits or might produce material harms. On the other hand, people sometimes want to relinquish control, because exercising agency is burdensome or costly.
The Unintended consequences of sentencing reforms: Using social chain theory to examine racial disparities in Female imprisonment

ABSTRACTThe current study uses social chain theory to examine the potential unintended effects of sentencing reforms on racial disparities in female imprisonment. Our analysis measures changes in the relative odds of Black to White female imprisonment using the Relative Rate Index (RRI) through panel regression modeling on 40 states from 1983 to 2008. Our final models indicate that four types of sentencing reforms had unintended perverse effects on racial disparities in prison admissions while Truth in Sentencing laws increased racial disparities in time-served. Eighteen combinations of sentencing reforms also significantly impacted disparities. Theoretical and policy implications are also discussed.
Body Composition in the Elderly from Magnetic Resonance Imaging: Associations with Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors

Centralized adipose tissue (AT) distribution is associated with increased risk for non-insulin dependent diabetes and cardiovascular diseases in men and women.1 Most studies, however, have been conducted in middle-aged adults and, with the exception of post-menopausal women2, there is little reported information for elderly persons, despite evidence that abdominal AT increases with age.3 More than half of all mortality in elderly persons > 65 y is due to cardiovascular diseases,4 and the segment of our population > 65 y is growing rapidly and consumes the most health dollars.5 Thus, there is a need to establish whether the associations observed in middle-aged adults are present in the elderly.
Survivable Routing in Multi-Domain Optical Networks with Geographically Correlated Failures

We address the problem of survivable path pair routing in multi- domain optical networks with geographically correlated failures. The objective is to minimize the risk of simultaneous failure of both the primary and backup paths. We develop a probabilistic model to calculate the simultaneous failure probability of both the paths and consider a topology aggregation scheme for domains based on calculating the physical vulnerable overlapping area of two paths within a domain. We develop an inter-domain minimum overlapping area routing algorithm based on the aggregated information from each domain. We compare our algorithm to Suurballe's Algorithm and an optimal approach and we show that our heuristic approach is effective in reducing the total probability of simultaneous failure.
Management of Common Urologic Conditions Among the Critically Ill

With an aging population, the elderly represent a unique cohort of patients with complex medical problems that present unique challenges to critical care providers. Common urologic conditions are often encountered by critical care providers, especially in elderly patients. In this chapter, we highlight the most common urologic problems dealt with by intensivists, specifically management of hematuria, urologic infections, Fournier’s gangrene, treatment of kidney stones, complications from urinary diversions, management of paraphimosis, an acute urinary retention algorithm, and tips for difficult catheterization.
Burnt by the sun: the Koreans of the Russian Far East

In 2017, many engaged in marking the centennial of the 1917 Bolshevik Revolution. In universities, scores of invited lectures and presentations were planned, popular media sources ran special serie...
Vehicle ownership and other predictors of teenagers risky driving behavior: Evidence from a naturalistic driving study.

Objective Risky driving behavior may contribute to the high crash risk among teenage drivers. The current naturalistic driving study assessed predictors for teenagers’ kinematic risky driving (KRD) behavior and the interdependencies between them. Method The private vehicles of 81 novice teenage drivers were equipped with data acquisition system that recorded driving kinematics, miles driven, and video recordings of the driver, passengers and the driving environment. Psychosocial measures were collected using questionnaires administered at licensure. Poisson regression analyses and model selection were used to assess factors associated with teens’ risky driving behavior and the interactions between them. Results Driving own vs shared vehicle, driving during the day vs at night, and driving alone vs with passengers were significantly associated with higher KRD rates (Incidence rate ratios (IRRs) of 1.60, 1.41, and 1.28, respectively). Teenagers reporting higher vs lower levels of parental trust had significantly lower KRD rates (IRR = 0.58). KRD rates were 88% higher among teenagers driving with a passenger in their own vehicle compared to teenagers driving with a passenger in a shared vehicle. Similarly, KRD rates during the day were 74% higher among teenagers driving their own vehicle compared to those driving a shared vehicle. Conclusions Novice teenagers’ risky driving behavior varied according to driver attributes and contextual aspects of the driving environment. As such, examining teenagers’ risky driving behavior should take into account multiple contributing factors and their interactions. The variability in risky driving according to the driving context can inform the development of targeted interventions to reduce the crash risk of novice teenage drivers.
Alternative Model Specifications

Our prototype model assumes that an increase in wages will increase the number of people seeking work and reduce the number of available jobs. Some other regional models assume that the labor market responds differently. In this chapter, we use alternative versions of our prototype model to examine the implications of these alternative assumptions and specifications. We conclude the chapter with a discussion of how a model can help to clarify issues relating to evidence about real wage and nominal wage convergence.
Effect of Grinding Strategy on Residual Stress in the Rail Head

Three scenarios representing an unground rail, a rail ground by long-train practice to approach conformal contact, and a rail ground for two-point contact were analyzed by means of the constrained energy minimization method to predict residual stress states in the rail head. Only normal loads were considered, an idealization which approximates lubricated conditions. The predicted residual stresses were found to be consistent with field observations of transverse defect propagation. Comparison of the results suggested that grinding to approach conformal contact could minimize the adverse effect of residual stress on defect propagation.
Edetate Disodium as a Polysorbate Degradation and Monoclonal Antibody Oxidation Stabilizer

Abstract Polysorbates are frequently used in biotherapeutic formulations. Interest in assessing their stability, in particular the impact of their degradation products on the stability of therapeutic proteins, has been steadily growing in the past decade. The work presented summarizes a case study of a monoclonal antibody formulation that demonstrated a simultaneous loss of polysorbate and an increase in methionine oxidation. Spiking studies were conducted to determine both the cause and a potential mitigation for the monoclonal antibody (mAb) oxidation and polysorbate 80 (PS80) loss. The results indicated that a different source material exhibited different rates of mAb oxidation and PS80 loss and that in all evaluated materials, the addition of edetate disodium to the formulation mitigated both observed issues. The mAb was assessed for the presence of lipases and lipoprotein lipase was detected at low levels. It is proposed that edetate disodium was effective in mitigating the mAb oxidation and PS80 loss by chelating calcium in the formulation and therefore decreasing the activity of the lipases.
Training in Plant Genetic Resources Management: A Way Forward

Plant genetic resource collections are national treasures that are critical to the success of breeding programs and the long-term resiliency of agriculture in the United States and worldwide. The USDA National Plant Germplasm System (NPGS) is a coordinated network of 19 genebank locations throughout the United States that conserve and protect nearly 600,000 accessions representing ∼16,000 plant species. The expertise of current curators must be captured, and training materials must be developed to educate the next generation of those who maintain and use plant genetic resources. A group of experts convened in April 2018 to discuss the needs, pedagogical approaches, educational content, delivery platforms, and mechanisms for sustaining a possible future plant genetic resources management training program. A three-component approach was envisioned to achieve the task of educating current and future genebank managers, as well as those who use genetic resources in their research and breeding programs. The proposed training program will include the development of online Resource Libraries, online courses, and workshops. Resource Libraries, hosted by GRIN-Global, will make learning objects, downloadable information, and links to other online sources publicly available. These Resource Libraries will be available for use in existing classes, as well as for the development of new workshops and online courses. Development of, and public access to, training resources will capture key information about genebanking, make it more widely available, and secure its long-term viability.
High-Dose Vitamin B12 in Vasodilatory Shock: A Narrative Review

Vasodilatory shock, as observed in postoperative states and sepsis, is hallmarked by low systemic vascular resistance and low blood pressure compensated by increased cardiac output. Gasotransmitters, such as nitric oxide and hydrogen sulfide, are implicated in the development and perpetuation of vasodilatory shock. Established therapies do not target these physiologic drivers of vasodilation. Due to their nontoxic and pleotropic effects, micronutrients are being used as rescue therapy in postoperative vasoplegia and septic shock. Here, we outline the pathophysiology of vasodilatory shock, describe the rationale for vitamin B12 (hydroxocobalamin) in vasodilatory shock, and identify literature evaluating its use in vasoplegic states.
Whither Collaboration? Integrating Professional Services to Close Reciprocal Gaps in Health and Education

This chapter sets forth a transdisciplinary response to an urgent problem: the significant contribution of poor health to racial and social class gaps in educational outcomes that divide America. The first section (1) describes reciprocal gaps in health and education, (2) identifies prevailing market values that undergird reforms that are failing to produce excellent and equitable outcomes across both systems of care, and (3) articulates a rationale and conceptual framework for collaborative civic professionalism among practitioners of human improvement in medicine, health, welfare, and education. The second section envisions university-sponsored adaptations designed to overcome barriers to partnering across the human improvement professions. Intersystem partnering is not without detractors; partnering may threaten the autonomy of professionals and the efficiency of markets without producing improved outcomes. Thus, we conclude by calling for a series of disciplined dialogs about how to facilitate collaborative interdependence and health–education partnerships designed to eliminate the gaps.
Increased efficiency of the functioning of systems for the restoration of military equipment by improving the organization of production and technological processes

The paper provides recommendations on improving the organization of production and technological processes for the repair of military equipment in assessing the effectiveness of the recovery system for this equipment. In assessing the effectiveness of the functioning of military vehicle recovery systems, measures must be taken to improve the functioning of this system. The manufacturing process is described by various indicators.Reducing the production cycle is one of the important tasks of organizing the production process and is ensured by improving the introduction of new equipment and technology, mechanization and automation of production in operations to restore parts for disassembling and assembling military vehicles, and technical control of the construction of the production process in accordance with the principles discussed in the article.
Vegetative nuclear positioning is required for calcium and ROS signaling in Arabidopsis pollen tubes

Abstract Efficient transport and delivery of sperm cells (SCs) is vital for angiosperm plant fertility. In Arabidopsis thaliana, SCs are transported through the growing pollen tube by a connection with the vegetative nucleus (VN). During pollen tube growth, the VN leads the way and maintains a fixed distance from the pollen tube tip, while the SCs lag behind the VN. Upon reception at the ovule, the pollen tube bursts and the SCs are released for fertilization. In pollen tubes of Arabidopsis mutants wit12 and wifi, deficient in the outer nuclear membrane component of a plant LINC complex, the SCs precede the VN and the VN falls behind. Subsequently, pollen tubes frequently fail to burst upon reception. In this study, we sought to determine if the pollen tube reception defect observed in wit12 and wifi is due to decreased sensitivity to reactive oxygen species (ROS). Here we show that wit12 and wifi are hyposensitive to exogenous H2O2, and that this hyposensitivity is correlated with decreased proximity of the VN to the pollen tube tip. Additionally, we report the first instance of nuclear Ca2+ spikes in growing pollen tubes, which are disrupted in the wit12 mutant. In the wit12 mutant, nuclear Ca2+ spikes are reduced in response to exogenous ROS, but these spikes are not correlated with pollen tube burst. This study finds that VN proximity to the pollen tube tip is required for both response to exogenous ROS, as well as internal nuclear Ca2+ fluctuations. Summary Mutants deficient in outer nuclear membrane proteins display defects in reactive oxygen species-induced pollen tube burst and nuclear Ca2+ signatures that correlate with the position of the vegetative nucleus.
Treatment and mortality outcomes in patients with other extrapulmonary cryptococcal disease compared with central nervous system disease.

BACKGROUND Determining the extent of cryptococcal disease (CD) is key to therapeutic management. Treatment with fluconazole is only recommended for localised pulmonary disease. Induction therapy with amphotericin B (AmB) and flucytosine is recommended for disease at other sites, irrespective of central nervous system (CNS) involvement, but this is not often followed in patients without meningitis. In this study, we compared treatment and mortality between patients with CD of the CNS and other extrapulmonary (OE) sites. METHODS This is a retrospective, single-centre study of all hospitalised patients with nonpulmonary cryptococcal infection from 2002 to 2015 who underwent lumbar puncture. Demographics, predisposing factors, comorbidities, clinical presentation, laboratory values, antifungal treatment and mortality data were collected to evaluate 90-day mortality and treatment differences between patients with OE and CNS CD. Survival analysis was performed using multivariable Cox regression analysis. RESULTS Of 193 patients analysed, 143 (74%) had CNS CD and 50 (26%) had OE CD. Ninety-day mortality was 23% and similar between the OE and CNS CD groups (22% vs 23%, p = .9). In the comorbidity-adjusted multivariable Cox regression model, mortality risk was similar in the OE and CNS groups. Fewer patients with OE CD received induction therapy with AmB and flucytosine compared to those with CNS disease (28% vs 71.3%, p < .001). CONCLUSION Patients with OE CD had similar 90-day mortality compared to those with CNS disease. Despite current guideline recommendations, patients with OE disease were less likely to receive appropriate induction therapy with AmB and flucytosine compared to patients with CNS disease.
Characterization of genetic counselor practices in inpatient care settings

Rapid genomic testing is increasingly used in inpatient settings for diagnostic and treatment purposes. With the expansion of genetic testing in this setting, requests for inpatient genetics consultations have increased. There have been reports of genetic counselors working in inpatient care, though their specific roles are not well described. In this study, we characterized the roles of genetic counselors practicing in inpatient care settings in the United States and Canada. Genetic counselors were recruited via professional organization listservs to complete an online survey. The survey gathered information on participants' roles and workflow of inpatient genetics consultation services at their institution. Responses from 132 participants demonstrate that 50.4% of genetic counselors cover genetics consultations as needed or on a rotating schedule (34.6%). They practice in general pediatric (59.1%), neonatal (42.5%), cancer (28.3%), and/or prenatal (18.9%) specialties, among others. Participants reported working independently (16.1%) or with other providers (54.8%), including geneticists and other attending physicians. The workflow of genetics consultation services varies between institutions in the delivery of consults, members of the inpatient genetics consultation care team, and administrative support. Fifty percent of participants reported having no exposure to inpatients during graduate training, and 87.3% of participants reported receiving no institutional training for their inpatient role. This is the first study to describe roles of genetic counselors in inpatient care. It establishes a foundation for future research on inpatient genetic counseling and genetic counseling outcomes in inpatient services. As demand for genetics expertise in inpatient care grows, genetic counselors can be hired to serve inpatient populations alongside genetics and non-genetics providers.
Effect of positive end-expiratory pressure on additional passive ventilation generated by CPR compressions in a porcine model.

Compressions given during cardiopulmonary resuscitation generate small, ineffective passive ventilations through oscillating waves. Positive end-expiratory pressure increases the volume of these passive ventilations; however, its effect on passive ventilation is unknown. Our objective was to determine if increasing positive end-expiratory pressure during cardiopulmonary resuscitation increases passive ventilation generated by compressions to a clinically significant point. This study was conducted on 13 Landrace-Yorkshire pigs. After inducing cardiac arrest with bupivacaine, cardiopulmonary resuscitation was performed with a LUCAS 3.1. During cardiopulmonary resuscitation, pigs were ventilated at a positive end-expiratory pressure of 0, 5, 10, 15, 20 cmH2O (randomly determined) for 9 min. Using the NM3 respiratory monitoring device, expired minute ventilation and volumetric capnography were measured. Arterial blood gas was obtained for each positive end-expiratory pressure level to compare the effects of positive end-expiratory pressure on carbon dioxide. Increasing positive end-expiratory pressure from 0 to 20 cmH2O increased the mean (SEM) expired minute ventilation from 6.33 (0.04) to 7.33 (0.04) mL/min. With the 5-cmH2O incremental increases in positive end-expiratory pressure from 0 to 20 cmH2O, volumetric capnography increased from a mean (SEM) of 94.19 (0.78) to 115.18 (0.8) mL/min, except for 15 cmH2O, which showed greater carbon dioxide exhalation with volumetric capnography compared with 20 cmH2O. PCO2 declined significantly as positive end-expiratory pressure was increased from 0 to 20 cmH2O. When increasing positive end-expiratory pressure from 0 to 20, the contribution to overall ventilation from gas oscillations generated by the compressions became more significant, and may even lead to hypocapnia, especially when using positive end-expiratory pressures between 15 and 20.
Introducing a User-friendly Approximate Dynamic Programming through Region-based Approximation

One of the main challenges in applying Approximate Dynamic Programming (ADP) to solve real-world optimal control problems is finding a proper Value Function Approximator (VFA). Generally, one selects the proper VFA by trial & error, which might be challenging and time-consuming. This paper tries to alleviate the need for trial & error in selecting a proper VFA in ADP solutions. Also, the paper provides a fast and computationally light training method. The backbone of the proposed solution is partitioning the domain of training to smaller regions in which the value function varies slowly. Afterward, a separate Linear-in-Parameter Neural Network (LIPNN) is trained to capture the value function's behavior in each region. The paper shows that the method improves the precision in value function approximation, which leads to improvement in the performance of the closed-loop system. Meanwhile, the paper discusses the possibility of expanding the training domain in ADP solutions by region-based approximation. At last, the paper provides two real-world simulation examples to evaluate the effectiveness of the solution.
Optical filtering tolerant and spectrally efficient 200Gbps real-time transmission using flex-shaping algorithms

Real-time transmission of 46*200Gb/s channels within 37.5GHz grid over 16 cascaded WSSs is realized with less than 1.1dB penalty, thanks to software defined optics (SDO) enabled by configurable time-domain hybrid modulation (TDHM) and programmable optical domain equalization (ODE) algorithms, potentially suitable for field deployment in ROADM networks.
Fading and Diversity

Fading is the variation in received signal strength due to changes in the physical characteristics of the propagation medium, which alter the interaction of multipath components of the transmitted signal. The principal means of counteracting fading are diversity methods, which are based on the exploitation of the latent redundancy in two or more independently fading copies of the same signal. The basic concept of diversity is that even if some copies are degraded, there is a high probability that others will not be. This chapter provides a general description of the most important aspects of fading and the role of diversity methods in counteracting it. Both direct-sequence and frequency-hopping signals are shown to provide diversity. The rake demodulator, which is of central importance in most direct-sequence systems, is shown to be capable of exploiting undesired multipath signals rather than simply attempting to reject them. The multicarrier direct-sequence system and frequency-domain equalization are shown to be alternative methods of advantageously processing multipath signals.
Dekker encyclopedia of nanoscience and nanotechnology

PREFACE TO SECOND EDITION The science of the ultra small nanoscience has dramatically exploded during the last few years, and the technologies operating with ultra small things the nanotechnologies acquired quickly a firm position in today s world of business, technological development, and public perception. Several factors contributed to the acceleration of scientific knowledge and technological progress in the last decades, among which the rapid development of fast computers, availability of high-resolution analytical techniques, and the progress of molecular biology and genetics are probably the most important. The result was an unprecedented expansion of the frontiers of science, which empowered the human genius with unlimited options of top-down and bottom-up methods for manipulation of materials structure and control of properties at multiple levels, from atomic to molecular, supramolecular, and biomolecular. Already a distinctive mark of 21st century, nanoscience and nanotechnology will certainly have a steadily increasing influence on the quality of life and the environment of this Planet for centuries to come. Dekker Encyclopedia of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Second Edition provides a comprehensive and detailed review, from multiple angles, of major developments in the human s quest for understanding and mastering of physical, chemical and biological objects and structures having at least one dimension smaller than about 100 nm. Under the expert supervision of the late Professor James A. Schwarz, Marcel Dekker, Inc. published the first edition in 2004 to great acclaim. The success of first edition, the development of the title through online updates, and the dynamics of this continuously growing field has created a high demand for a second edition only four years after the first edition. The second edition offers updated and revised entries, along with many additions that reflect the focus towards energy and environmental issues currently in the news. The new edition is expanded to six volumes. All entry titles have been revised to better reflect to the entry's content, while optimized for alphabetical listing. In addition, a comprehensive (though not exhaustive) topical table of contents has been designed, structured on 24 major topics and almost 100 subtopics. With a robust and efficient indexing system and staggered bleed tabs, this second print edition will be a useful reference tool for scientists in academia and national laboratories, engineers, students, as well as entrepreneurs, policy makers, and opinion builders. The online version of the Encyclopedia offers quick access to individual entries in HTML or PDF format, enriched graphical content, hundreds of color illustrations and photographs, and an efficient keyword search engine. Cristian I. Contescu Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, USA Karol Putyera Shiva Technologies, Syracuse, New York, USA July 2008
High speed quantum dot lasers

Self-organized quantum dot lasers, grown by MBE or MOVPE, have demonstrated superior characteristics such as large differential gain, ultra-low threshold current, high output power and large output tunability. However. these devices have successfully eluded researchers in the realization of large modulation bandwidths at room temperature. Typically, a bandwidth f/sub -3 dB/ /spl sim/5 to 7 GHz is measured in single-mode quantum dot lasers. In this paper, we will introduce and describe the technique of tunnel injection of carriers in quantum dot lasers and the benefits therefrom. Wc have recently demonstrated very high modulation bandwidth (>20 GHz), high T/sub 0/ (363 K in 5/spl deg/ < T < 60/spl deg/C and 202 K in 60/spl deg/ < T < 100/spl deg/C), and low Auger recombination coefficients (/spl sim/ 3.3 /spl times/ 10/sup -29/ cm/sup 6//s to 3.8 /spl times/ 10/sup -29/ cm/sup 6//s in the temperature range 15/spl deg/C < T < 85/spl deg/C) in In/sub 0.4/Ga/sub 0.6/As/GaAs self-organized quantum dot tunnel injection lasers.
The purification of cholinesterase from horse serum

A relatively simple method is described by which cholinesterase was purified about 19000-fold starting from horse serum. Typically 20 litres of serum were processed to yield 15–18mg of electrophoretically pure cholinesterase in the form of an active salt-free dry powder. The method included two stages: fractionation with (NH4)2SO4 and ion-exchange chromatography. The (NH4)2SO4 stage included, in principle, the acid (pH3) step of the Strelitz (1944) procedure. The step took advantage of the stabilizing effect that 33%-satd. (NH4)2SO4 has on cholinesterase activity at pH3 and it is recognized that in the absence of (NH4)2SO4 the enzyme is rapidly destroyed at pH3. Cholinesterase was significantly more stable to pH3.0 at 2°C than at 24°C, and the acid step was done at both temperatures. The specific activities of the final products obtained by way of acid steps were the same at either temperature, thus indicating that the step has not harmed the enzyme active sites. The product from the first two stages was purified over 18000-fold and was 85–90% cholinesterase. The remaining impurities were removed by preparative gel electrophoresis. The product was about 40% more active and contained 40% more active sites per unit weight than electrophoretically pure cholinesterase prepared from partially purified commercial starting material. Although the number of active sites per molecule was not determined with certainty, a value of at least 3 and possibly 4 was indicated. The partial specific volumes were determined with a precision density meter, on the ultracentrifuge and from the amino acid and carbohydrate composition. The values by these independent methods were 0.688, 0.71 and 0.712ml/g, respectively. The amino acid and carbohydrate composition was determined. The cholinesterase contained 17.4% carbohydrate including 3.2% N-acetylneuraminic acid.
Child Abuse: Parenteral Hydrocarbon Administration

The recognized spectrum of child abuse and neglect has expanded enormously since the original description of the battered child syndrome by Kempe et al, in 1962.1 In addition to physical abuse, we now realize that sexual abuse and nutritional neglect, as well as emotional abuse and neglect of children are problems of considerable magnitude. Another form of child abuse reported with increasing frequency is the intentional poisoning of children. Although this form of child abuse was mentioned by Kempe et al1 in their original report, it has only recently received more recognization and attention. Because of several unique characteristics, some authors2-4 favor considering intentional poisoning as a distinct subgroup of child abuse.
Organizational Dynamics of Watershed Partnerships: A Key to Integrated Water Resources Management

One of the most significant institutional innovations in natural resources and environmental management over the past decade or so has been the widespread emergence and growth of collaborative and partnershipbased watershed initiatives (John 1994, Griffin 1999, National Research Council 1999, Sabatier et al. 2005). These initiatives vary from traditional approaches and are used across multiple water management scales. Their distinguishing hallmarks are: decentralized and shared, devolved decision-making; collaboration; participatory engagement of a wide array of stakeholders; and expanded goals concerned with broader ecosystem sustainability (Born and Genskow 2000, Weber 2000, Koontz et al. 2004). In many cases, these watershed initiatives form a place-based nexus for multiple actors attempting to address complex natural resource management issues, and they have become governance mechanisms for implementing integrated water resource management. As watershed planning and management evolves to accommodate multiple interests working in partnership to achieve more integrated and coordinated management, challenges have emerged with regard to predicting success and evaluating effectiveness of these initiatives (Bellamy et al. 1999, Kenney 2000, Leach and Pelkey 2001, Lubell et al. 2002, Conley and Moote 2003). We would like to focus attention on one aspect of many watershed initiatives—their highly dynamic organizational character and functioning in time and space. In many instances, the efforts and results related to watershed management are not simply the result of the workings of a singular entity or partnership, but rather are the aggregation of activities within an organizational field or network over time (Godschalk 1992, Alexander 1993, Korfmacher 2000). As noted by Imperial and Hennessey (2000):
An Economic Model for Comparing Search Services

Search services are now ubiquitously employed in searching for documents on the Internet and on enterprise intranets. This research develops an economic model for comparing search services based on a users information requirement in a decision making scenario. The model considers the noise effects of querying, search and filtering of results. Different search engines might return different results for the same query based on the characteristics of the search engines algorithms and the extent of captured data. Users are thus faced with the selection of a search service in order to minimize cost, reduce uncertainty, and maximize the benefits derived for their efforts. A methodology for comparing search services based on the model is presented. This comparison can also be used by search service providers to enhance alignment between their objectives and that of users as well as for pricing of their products and services. A preliminary experiment comparing three popular search services is used to illustrate the model.
The Corona Line

IT is rather absurd, as Capt. Herschel says, for an American to carry on a discussion with a resident of India through a London periodical; but there are one or two points in his letter of July 29th which I should like to notice.
Actinomycetales Infection in the Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome

Abstract Four parenteral drug abusers with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome had nonmycobacterial actinomycetales infections. Three patients had nocardiosis and one developed a streptomyces ly...
Ischemic heart disease

Abstract Ischemic heart disease has a number of important manifestations that can be observed on plain films and at fluoroscopy. Special roentgen procedures, such as coronary arteriography and angiocardiography, are extremely useful to the in-depth evaluation of coronary heart disease. Recognition of morphologic and physiologic abnormalities on plain film and at fluoroscopy can be important in the initial diagnosis of ischemic heart disease, in the follow-up, and in the evaluation of the complications. Acute congestive heart failure, particularly when associated with a relatively small heart, is one of the hallmarks of acute myocardial infarction. However, marked degrees of cardiomegaly may occur, especially after repeated attacks. A number of lesser manifestations, including myocardial calcification, can be seen. Using relatively simple fluoroscopic techniques, abnormalities of myocardial contraction occur in about 80 per cent of patients and often reflect the severity and extent of existing damage. The complications of ischemic heart disease range from pulmonary and systemic embolism and infarction through myocardial rupture, aneurysm, and the more rare and esoteric postinfarction and shoulder-hand syndrome. The role of the informed roentgenologist in the evaluation of a patient suspected of ischemic heart disease has been significant and, with the newer angiographic techniques, is becoming even more important.
Rapid Screening of Transformed Data Leaks with Efficient Algorithms and Parallel Computing

The leak of sensitive data on computer systems poses a serious threat to organizational security. Organizations need to identify the exposure of sensitive data by screening the content in storage and transmission, i.e., to detect sensitive information being stored or transmitted in the clear. However, detecting the exposure of sensitive information is challenging due to data transformation in the content. Transformations (such as insertion, deletion) result in highly unpredictable leak patterns. Existing automata-based string matching algorithms are impractical for detecting transformed data leaks, because of its formidable complexity when modeling the required regular expressions. We design two new algorithms for detecting long and transformed data leaks. Our system achieves high detection accuracy in recognizing transformed leaks compared to the state-of-the-art inspection methods. We parallelize our prototype on graphics processing unit and demonstrate the strong scalability of our detection solution required by a sizable organization.
Business Value in Complex IT Service Engagements: Realization is Governed by Patterns of Interaction

Mutually successful win-win outcomes in complex IT service engagements are by no means easy to achieve. Typically, provider and client represent complex organizational entities with multiple agendas and diverse stakeholders involved in long-term engagements. Unsurprisingly, new opportunities to create value arise; however, value propositions can fail to be realized, especially when the provider has fulfilled contractual agreements and yet the customer has expressed dissatisfaction. How do we explain this phenomenon, and more importantly, avoid its occurrence? In this paper we examine three IT service engagements through the lens of a conceptual model based on foundational service system concepts. Cross-case analysis reveals patterns of interaction that have the potential to increase, and in some instances, diminish value over time. Our approach identifies leading indicators that mitigate risk and increase benefit to both clients and provider, enabling IT service companies to take advantage of emerging opportunities that lead to greater value co-creation.
An electron diffraction study of laser pumped SF6

Abstract The change in the mean amplitudes of vibration of the interatomic distances in gaseous SF 6 due to direct absorption of 0.1 MW/cm 2 cw CO 2 laser radiation has been studied by electron diffraction. The relative rise in the vibrational amplitudes suggests that the distribution of absorbed energy is not thermal on a time scale of 1 μs.