cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Immigrant Children of Katrina

In August 2005, Hurricane Katrina displaced the largest number of public school children ever affected by any disaster. Approximately 370,000 children, including 15,000 Latino/Hispanic children from Louisiana, were scattered throughout the 48 U.S. states (Landrieu, 2010; Louisiana Department of Education, 2004). Although much of the media attention, policy, and research have focused on the effects of race—primarily Black/White—in New Orleans disaster relief, Latino immigrant children were the silenced, invisible victims of the evacuation, policy, relief, and recovery services. The largely unreported immigrant evacuation from Louisiana was along a silent underground railroad of sorts, using a network of relatives and countrymen whenever they could (Plocek, 2006). The findings of this article illustrate the theoretical implications and consequences of identifying immigrant children as racially White. This study documents the intersections of local, state, and federal policy regarding schools and recovery re...
Accurate prediction of major histocompatibility complex class II epitopes by sparse representation via ℓ 1 -minimization

Background The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) is responsible for presenting antigens (epitopes) on the surface of antigen-presenting cells (APCs). When pathogen-derived epitopes are presented by MHC class II on an APC surface, T cells may be able to trigger an specific immune response. Prediction of MHC-II epitopes is particularly challenging because the open binding cleft of the MHC-II molecule allows epitopes to bind beyond the peptide binding groove; therefore, the molecule is capable of accommodating peptides of variable length. Among the methods proposed to predict MHC-II epitopes, artificial neural networks (ANNs) and support vector machines (SVMs) are the most effective methods. We propose a novel classification algorithm to predict MHC-II called sparse representation via l1-minimization.
The relation of the electrical conductivity in single crystals of rhenium trioxide to the conductivities of Sr2MgReO6 and NaxWO3

In order to discriminate experimentally between proposed models for the conduction band in the bronze system NaxWO3 (where x > 0.28), the electrical transport properties of ReO3 and of Sr2MgReO6 have been investigated. A single crystal of stoichiometric ReO3 was grown by vapor transport and found to exhibit a metallic conductivity that is remarkably high for an oxide. However, polycrystalline Sr2MgReO6 was found to be a semiconductor with a room temperature resistivity of at least 105Ω-cm. These data indicate that the d-electrons of ReO3 are delocalized throughout the lattice as a whole, whereas those of Sr2MgReO6 are localized on the rhenium ions or within isolated ReO6 clusters. Magnetic susceptibility measurements were made on powder samples of both materials and are shown to be consistent with these conclusions. These results suggest that the most appropriate model for metallic conductivity in transition-metal oxides structurally related to ReO3 is one involving covalent bonding via mixing of cation t2g and anionpπ orbitals.
Observed and Simulated Temperature-Humidity Relationships: Sensitivity to Sampling and Analysis

Recent studies have demonstrated that the correlation between interannual variations of large-scale average temperature and water vapor is stronger and less height dependent in one GCM than in an objective analysis of radiosonde observations. To address this discrepancy, a GCM with a different approach to cumulus parameterization is used to explore the model dependence of this result, the effect of sampling biases, and the analysis scheme applied to the data. It is found that the globally complete data from the two GCMs produce similar patterns of correlation despite their fundamentally different moist convection schemes. While this result concurs with earlier studies, it is also shown that this apparent model‐observation discrepancy is significantly reduced (although not eliminated) by sampling the GCM in a manner more consistent with the observations, and especially if the objective analysis is not then applied to the sampled data. Furthermore, it is found that spatial averages of the local temperature‐ humidity correlations are much weaker, and show more height dependence, than correlations of the spatially averaged quantities for both model and observed data. The results of the previous studies are thus inconclusive and cannot therefore be interpreted to mean that GCMs greatly overestimate the water vapor feedback.
An automated technique for image noise identification using a simple pattern classification approach

A simple pattern classification based noise identification method is proposed in this paper. The key idea involves isolation of some representative noise samples, and extraction of their statistical features for noise type identification. The isolation of representative noise samples is achieved using simple image filters and noise identification is performed using a few statistical and/or histogram based features. The method seems to be capable of accurately classifying the types of noise studied.
Queueing models of optical delay lines in synchronous and asynchronous optical packet-switching networks

Buffering with optical delay lines (ODLs) in optical packet-switching networks is a way to mitigate network contention. We study queueing models of ODLs in synchronous and asynchronous optical packet-switching networks under uniform Bernoulli traffic. We first introduce a Markov chain model for a finite-length ODL forward-buffering system in synchronized networks and calculate the stationary distribution of its queueing length as well as two important queueing parameters: packet loss rate (PLR) and average queueing delay (AQD). We then introduce an asymptotic analysis based on the generating function of an infinite buffering system and present approximate expressions for PLR and AQD. Numerical calculations demonstrate that these asymptotic estimates of PLR and AQD are quite accurate. We then extend the queueing analysis to feedback-buffering ODLs in synchronized networks. We present numerical calculations of PLRs and AQDs for feedback-buffering ODLs. Finally, we introduce queueing models in asynchronous networks for forward buffering or for feedback buffering without multiple recirculations. We carry out the asymptotic analysis to characterize the performance degradation of ODL buffering in asynchronous switching when the traffic load is high.
Interpreting the Need for Initial Support to Perform Tandem Stance Tests of Balance

Background Geriatric rehabilitation reimbursement increasingly requires documented deficits on standardized measures. Tandem stance performance can characterize balance, but protocols are not standardized. Objective The purpose of this study was to explore the impact of: (1) initial support to stabilize in position and (2) maximum hold time on tandem stance tests of balance in older adults. Design A cross-sectional secondary analysis of observational cohort data was conducted. Methods One hundred seventeen community-dwelling older adults (71% female, 12% black) were assigned to 1 of 3 groups based on the need for initial support to perform tandem stance: (1) unable even with support, (2) able only with support, and (3) able without support. The able without support group was further stratified on hold time in seconds: (1) <10 (low), (2) 10 to 29, (medium), and (3) 30 (high). Groups were compared on primary outcomes (gait speed, Timed “Up & Go” Test performance, and balance confidence) using analysis of variance. Results Twelve participants were unable to perform tandem stance, 14 performed tandem stance only with support, and 91 performed tandem stance without support. Compared with the able without support group, the able with support group had statistically or clinically worse performance and balance confidence. No significant differences were found between the able with support group and the unable even with support group on these same measures. Extending the hold time to 30 seconds in a protocol without initial support eliminated ceiling effects for 16% of the study sample. Limitations Small comparison groups, use of a secondary analysis, and lack of generalizability of results were limitations of the study. Conclusions Requiring initial support to stabilize in tandem stance appears to reflect meaningful deficits in balance-related mobility measures, so failing to consider support may inflate balance estimates and confound hold time comparisons. Additionally, 10-second maximum hold times limit discrimination of balance in adults with a higher level of function. For community-dwelling older adults, we recommend timing for at least 30 seconds and documenting initial support for consideration when interpreting performance.
IgA-mediated autoimmune hemolytic anemia in an infant.

Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is characterized by the presence of autoantibodies, most frequently of the IgG isotype, directed against erythrocyte surface antigens. The direct antiglobulin test (DAT) is the critical laboratory test for the diagnosis of AIHA, but is negative in 3–11% of cases. In these cases of DAT negative AIHA, a wider spectrum of clinical data including more specialized testing for erythrocyte autoantibodies may be required. We describe the unique and challenging case of an infant with corticosteroid-responsive, DAT negative AIHA, in which specialized gel card testing identified an isolated IgA autoantibody on the erythrocyte surface. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2011;56:837–839. © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Geographic variation in prey preference in bark beetle predators

Bark beetles and their predators are useful systems for addressing questions concerning diet breadth and prey preference in arthropod natural enemies. These predators use bark beetle pheromones to locate their prey, and the response to different pheromones is a measure of prey preference. 2. Trapping experiments were conducted to examine geographic variation in the response to prey pheromones by two bark beetle predators, Thanasimus dubius and Temnochila virescens. The experiments used pheromones for several Dendroctonus and Ips prey species (frontalin, ipsdienol, and ipsenol) and manipulated visual cues involved in prey location (black vs. white traps). The study sites included regions where the frontalin-emitter Dendroctonus frontalis was in outbreak vs. endemic or absent. 3. There was significant geographic variation in pheromone preference for T. dubius. This predator strongly preferred a pheromone (frontalin) associated with D. frontalis at outbreak sites, while preference was more even at endemic and absent sites. No geographic variation was found in the response by T. virescens. White traps caught fewer insects than black traps for both predators, suggesting that visual cues are also important in prey location. 4. The overall pattern for T. dubius is consistent with switching or optimal foraging theory, assuming D. frontalis is a higher quality prey than Ips. The two predator species partition the prey pheromones in areas where D. frontalis is abundant, possibly to minimise competition and intraguild predation.
Evaluating Compliant Hinge Geometries for Origami-Inspired Mechanisms

Origami-inspired design is an emerging field capable of producing compact and efficient designs. Compliant hinges are proposed as a way to replicate the folding motion of paper when using non-paper materials. Compliant hinges function as surrogate folds and can be defined as localized reduction of stiffness. The purpose of this paper is to organize and evaluate selected surrogate folds for use in compliant mechanisms. These surrogate folds are characterized based on the desired motion as well as motions typically considered parasitic. Additionally the surrogate folds’ ability to rotate through large deflections and their stability of center of rotation are evaluated. Existing surrogate folds are reviewed and closed-form solutions presented. A diagram intended as a straightforward design guide is presented. Areas for potential development in the surrogate fold design space are noted.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
Lyn, Jak2, and Raf-1 Kinases Are Critical for the Antiapoptotic Effect of Interleukin 5, whereas only Raf-1 Kinase Is Essential for Eosinophil Activation and Degranulation

Interleukin (IL)-5 has been shown to activate many signaling molecules in eosinophils, but their functional relevance remains unknown. We have examined the functional relevance of Lyn, Jak2, and Raf-1 kinases in eosinophil survival, upregulation of adhesion molecules and degranulation. To this goal we used Lyn and Raf-1 antisense (AS) oligodeoxynucleotides (ODN) to inhibit the expression of these proteins and tyrphostin AG490 to specifically block the activation of Jak2. We have demonstrated that all three kinases are important for IL-5– induced suppression of eosinophil apoptosis. However, Lyn and Jak2 tyrosine kinases are not important for the upregulation of CD11b and the secretion of eosinophil cationic protein. In contrast, Raf-1 kinase is critical for both these functions. This is the first identification of specific signaling molecules responsible for three important functions of eosinophils. We have established a central role for Raf-1 kinase in regulating eosinophil survival, expression of β2 integrins and degranulation. Further, there appears to be a dissociation between two receptor-associated tyrosine kinases, i.e., Lyn and Jak2, and the activation of Raf-1 kinase. The delineation of the functional relevance of signaling molecules will help design therapeutic approaches targeting specific eosinophil function.
Pathogenic Effects of D23N Iowa Mutant Amyloid β-Protein

Cerebral amyloid β-protein angiopathy (CAA) is a key pathological feature of patients with Alzheimer's disease and certain related disorders. In these conditions the CAA is characterized by the deposition of Aβ within the cerebral vessel wall and, in severe cases, hemorrhagic stroke. Several mutations have been identified within the Aβ region of the Aβ protein precursor (AβPP) gene that appear to enhance the severity of CAA. We recently described a new mutation within the Aβ region (D23N) of AβPP that is associated with severe CAA in an Iowa kindred (Grabowski, T. J., Cho, H. S., Vonsattel, J. P. G., Rebeck, G. W., and Greenberg, S. M. (2001) Ann. Neurol. 49, 697–705). In the present study, we investigated the effect of this new D23N mutation on the processing of AβPP and the pathogenic properties of Aβ. Neither the D23N Iowa mutation nor the E22Q Dutch mutation affected the amyloidogenic processing of AβPP expressed in H4 cells. The A21G Flemish mutation, in contrast, resulted in a 2.3-fold increase in secreted Aβ peptide. We also tested synthetic wild-type and mutant Aβ40 peptides for fibrillogenesis and toxicity toward cultured human cerebrovascular smooth muscle (HCSM) cells. The E22Q Dutch, D23N Iowa, and E22Q,D23N Dutch/Iowa double mutant Aβ40 peptides rapidly assembled in solution to form fibrils, whereas wild-type and A21G Flemish Aβ40 peptides exhibited little fibril formation. Similarly, the E22Q Dutch and D23N Iowa Aβ40 peptides were found to induce robust pathologic responses in cultured HCSM cells, including elevated levels of cell-associated AβPP, proteolytic breakdown of smooth muscle cell α-actin, and cell death. Double mutant E22Q,D23N Dutch/Iowa Aβ40 was more potent than either single mutant form of Aβ in causing pathologic responses in HCSM cells. These data suggest that the different CAA mutations in AβPP may exert their pathogenic effects through different mechanisms. Whereas the A21G Flemish mutation appears to enhance Aβ production, the E22Q Dutch and D23N Iowa mutations enhance fibrillogenesis and the pathogenicity of Aβ toward HCSM cells.
New tools vs. old methods: a description of the CHEMCONF '93 discussion

Abstract During the on-line conference on “Applications of Technology in Teaching Chemistry” held between 12 June and 20 August 1993 the topic “New Tools vs Old Methods” generated wide interest. This paper is based on the discussions surrounding this topic during the conference and on participants' reactions to a document that summarized the major points made during that discussion. The conference consensus and necessity for using new computer tools in chemical education are supplemented with ideas drawn from the literature. The integration of new pedagogical techniques with the new technology is seen as essential for effective use of computer tools in chemical education. Participants responded very enthusiastically to CHEMCONF. The advantage of computer conferencing as a new tool for educators lies in the opportunity for wide, in depth participation in an adventure of ideas.
Seeing Can Be Remembering: Interactions Between Memory and Perception in Typical and Atypical Development

Recent work suggests that memory representations may guide basic perceptual functions, such as figure-ground perception. In three studies we assessed top-down contributions to figure-ground percept...
The FCC’s Evidentiary Problem

Administrative agencies are responsible for a vast number of the laws that govern us. The fact that these rule makers are unelected and largely unaccountable to elected representatives is in large part why technical procedures for rulemaking were established in the Administrative Procedure Act (the "APA"). But what happens when the agency does not follow the APA or otherwise attempts to circumvent the literal meaning or the spirit of its enacting statute? The usual answer is that the courts will protect against agency self-aggrandizement but judicial intervention is highly limited--often by the court's own self-imposed limitations and legal precedent. Legal precedent dictates that a court cannot substitute its own judgment for that of the agency — it is a matter of judicial deference to the agency’s congressionally designated expertise. Nor is a court permitted to place any additional procedural requirements on agency rulemaking beyond those imposed by the APA, agency-specific statutes, or an agency’s own regulations. Even though its findings are given a great deal of deference, an agency is not permitted to make decisions that are “arbitrary and capricious” under the law. Unless the court is vigilant in the review of the technical record — insistent that the record meet certain minimum standards — the prohibition on arbitrary and capricious decision making has little meaning. In particular, this essay discusses the Federal Communication Commission’s (the “FCC”) recent factual record supporting and exercising authority in the Open Internet Order and urges that reviewing courts take a close, and perhaps even a skeptical, look at the Commission’s findings.
Multidetector CT imaging of bariatric surgical complications: a pictorial review

The prevalence of obesity is increasing, along with the number of bariatric surgical procedures performed to treat obesity. Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG), Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), and laparoscopic gastric banding (GB) comprise the vast majority of procedures with SG now the dominant procedure in the USA. Although multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) is not always the examination of choice for a particular suspected complication, many of these patients present with non-specific abdominal symptoms and undergo MDCT evaluation as an initial diagnostic test. This pictorial essay will review and discuss the normal post-surgical bariatric appearance on MDCT, and the appearance of common and uncommon complications associated with the common bariatric procedures on MDCT with correlative imaging. SG complications include leak/abscess, hemorrhage, splenic injury, and portomesenteric thrombosis. RYGB complications include leak/abscess, gastrogastric fistula, small bowel obstruction, internal hernia, and intussusception. Although GB is waning in popularity, radiologists continue to see the legacy of these patients and complications include gastric prolapse, band erosion, and port/tubing mechanical failures. Awareness of the characteristic findings of bariatric complications on MDCT is critical, allowing for earlier recognition and prompt intervention.
Sustainability of a growing higher education institution: a simulation approach to analyze the dynamics of campus parking lots

Sustainability of universities and colleges is an important component of higher education institutions, especially for a new fast growing educational organization. Within a wide range of various aspects of sustainability in a growing educational organization we identified a problem related to the availability of parking spaces on campus. This problem was formalized as a campus parking lot system with a specific subject domain scope, analysis goals, constraints and assumptions. We used ARENA professional simulation software environment to design and to implement a preliminary simulation model of the campus parking lot system. The created simulation model can be used not only as a tool for systems analysis of a campus transportation problem, but also as a portion of the future bigger simulation "umbrella" to analyze the sustainability of a university/college. Such a future bigger simulation model will include economics, facilities, administrative structures, educational technologies, and environmental aspects of sustainability at a university/college.
7125 How best to diagnose ipmt.

The purpose of the study was to review a single institutional experience of intraductal papillary mucinous tumors (IPMT) and compare different diagnostic modalities. Background: IPMT or mucinous ductal ectasia is a rare neoplasm of the pancreas. It is characterized by extensive intraductal growth with slow invasion and metastasis having a much better prognosis. Diagnosis is usually made by ERCP showing dilated main and side branches with multiple filling defects that represent mucus and often mucus extruding from the papilla. The value of brush cytology and biopsy is unknown. Methods: The medical records, endoscopic findings, brushing results, surgical findings and surgical pathology of 22 patients over a 6 year period were reviewed. Results: The mean age at presentation was 63.1 years. There were 15 females and 7 males. The prevalence of abdominal pain was 86%, h/o pancreatitis 64%, wt loss 23%, diabetes 18%, cholangitis 9%, steatorrhea 5%. CT scan was done in 11 (50 %) and showed cystic dilation in 1, cystic mass in 5, solid mass in 3, and was negative in 2. Three (14%) were found to have pancreas divisum with mucus in the dilated dorsal duct. Nineteen (86%) had tumor involvement in the head of the pancreas and 3 (14%) in the tail. Brushing of the pancreatic duct was performed in 17, biopsy in 8 with only 2 positive for mucinous neoplasm in each (using strict criteria). Pancreatoscopy was performed in 2 patients and revealed the intraductal papillary growth and white gelatinous mucus in both patients. Endoscopic ultrasound was performed on one patient and showed hyperechogenic collection in the dilated pancreatic duct. Eight patients underwent surgery; 4 pancreaticoduodenectomy, 2 pylorus preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy, 1 distal pancreatectomy and 1 total pancreatectomy. Invasive carcinoma was present in 2 (25%). Conclusion: IPMT which has malignant potential, presents with nonspecific symptoms. Non-invasive imaging may be misleading. ERCP is the procedure of choice in making the diagnosis. Brushings or biopsies of the pancreatic duct are insensitive. Pancreatoscopy is useful in determining the extent of the lesion to help guide surgical resection.
Ven Te Chow: An Outstanding Scholar

During a period of nearly three decades from the 1950s to the 1970s at University of Illinois, Urbana-Champagne, Professor Ven Te Chow made a large number of major technical contributions that changed the landscape of hydrology, hydraulics, and water resources engineering. These contributions encompass a broad spectrum of areas, including (1) deterministic hydrology, (2) stochastic hydrology, (3) open-channel hydraulics, and (4) water resources. In addition, he greatly contributed to the advancement of the entire water resources area through education, supervision of outstanding graduate students, mentoring of junior colleagues, technology transfer by consulting and lecturing, editorships of journals and book series, organization and direction of conferences, professional service, and founding of International Association of Water Resources. This paper reflects on Chow’s contributions and concludes that our profession and we indeed are better off today, because Chow graced the profession for three decades. He was an outstanding scholar, an extraordinary researcher, a renowned educator, and a water resources engineer par excellence. His accomplishments have inspired generations of water resources professionals. The paper is concluded with a personal note.
COSMOLIKE - cosmological likelihood analyses for photometric galaxy surveys

We explore strategies to extract cosmological constraints from a joint analysis of cosmic shear, galaxy–galaxy lensing, galaxy clustering, cluster number counts and cluster weak lensing. We utilize the COSMOLIKE software to simulate results from a Large Synoptic Survey Telescope (LSST) like data set, specifically, we (1) compare individual and joint analyses of the different probes, (2) vary the selection criteria for lens and source galaxies, (3) investigate the impact of blending, (4) investigate the impact of the assumed cosmological model in multiprobe covariances, (6) quantify information content as a function of scales and (7) explore the impact of intrinsic galaxy alignment in a multiprobe context. Our analyses account for all cross-correlations within and across probes and include the higher-order (non-Gaussian) terms in the multiprobe covariance matrix. We simultaneously model cosmological parameters and a variety of systematics, e.g. uncertainties arising from shear and photo-z calibration, cluster mass-observable relation, galaxy intrinsic alignment and galaxy bias (up to 54 parameters altogether). We highlight two results: first, increasing the number density of source galaxies by ∼30 per cent, which corresponds to solving blending for LSST, only gains little information. Secondly, including small scales in clustering and galaxy–galaxy lensing, by utilizing halo occupation distribution models, can substantially boost cosmological constraining power.
Analyzing and retrieving structural information of Picea crassifolia based on airborne light detection and ranging data

Nine Light Detection And Ranging(LiDAR) metrics were calculated and classified into three classes:canopy height, structural complexity,and cover metrics.Combined with a huge amount of field-measured structural data and estimated age data for individual trees,canopy height and structural complexity metrics were used to analyze the vertical distribution of forest canopy at both plot and regional levels.Picea crassifolia in the study area was primarily half-mature and mature stands; the complexity of the canopy vertical distribution and the differentiation grade of canopy height were low.The canopy cover metrics had a good c orrelation with the field-measured effective Plant Area Index(PAI e) according to the regression analysis(R2= 0.66).The PAI e of the entire study area was retrieved based on the radiative transfer model and validated by field data.The retrieved PAI e was slightly higher than the field data(R2= 0.67),and the average absolute error was 0.65.These results show the potential of LiDAR in retrieving forest structure information.
Diagnostic value of color Doppler ultrasound for fetal cardiac malformations

Objectives To explore the value of color Doppler ultrasound in the diagnosis of fetal cardiac malformations.Methods We retrospectively analyzed the color Doppler ultrasonography data of 5,571 fetuses with 20-28 weeks'gestational age in Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center from May 2011 to February 2013.Results There were 39 fetuses diagnosed as cardiac malformations with a detection rate of 0.7% by color Doppler ultrasound.These cases were all confirmed by induction of labor,autopsy or echocardiography of newborn infants.Three cases were missed.Among them,2 cases were with ventricular septal defect,1 case was with tetralogy of Fallot and they were confirmed by echocardiography after they were born.Conclusions Color Doppler ultrasound is essential for early screening fetal cardiac malformations.
Complete Nonunion of the Ureterovesical Junction with Preservation of Renal Function

We report on a neonate with a history of failure to thrive who had a large right abdominal mass. Renal ultrasound showed a large cystic mass that arose from the upper pole of the hydronephrotic right kidney. Preoperative antegrade pyelography confirmed that the mass communicated with 1 kidney. Further evaluation revealed no communication of the ureter with the bladder or vagina. Exploratory surgery identified the mass and intraoperative pyelography revealed no communication with the bladder. After resection of the mass and nephrostomy placement, reimplantation of the right ureter demonstrated complete atresia of the distal right ureter. Preservation of the remaining renal parenchyma was possible, because the functioning lower pole collecting system communicated with the cystic mass that arose from the upper pole.
Spironolactone does not affect in vitro androgen Secretion by human granulosa-luteal cells*

Although spironolactone has been documented to decrease peripheral serum androgen levels in women treated for androgen excess of ovarian origin, the site of action does not appear to be the granulosa cell. In vitro cell culture studies using human granulosa-luteal cells isolated from women undergoing ovarian stimulation for IVF have shown no affect on T, delta 4A, or DHT secretion in the presence of clinically therapeutic levels of spironolactone (0-10(-6) M). In addition, neither P nor E2 production was affected by increasing concentrations of spironolactone.
Polystyrene nanorod formation in C12E5 hemimicelle thin film templates

This paper reports the synthesis and characterization of polystyrene nanorods in hemicylindrical hemimicelles of a nonionic polyoxyethylene surfactant, C 12 E 5, on graphite. The surface structure is characterized by atomic force microscopy (AFM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and contact angle goniometry. Uniformly aligned polystyrene nanorods are captured by AFM. The nanorod dimensions are studied as a function of the reaction time and styrene monomer concentration. The template synthesis using self-assembled surfactant surface aggregates promises to create functional and stable nanostructures for optoelectronics and surface engineering.
The effects of mass media campaigns on individual attitudes towards tax compliance; quasi-experimental evidence from survey data in Pakistan

Abstract Pakistan has consistently performed low on taxation, with revenue collection hovering around 10% of GDP. Tax reforms have been attempted but without significant gains in revenue collection. Due to the recalcitrance of tax revenues, the tax authority attempted to enlist voluntary compliance, as one of the avenues for its efforts to increase collections. This paper examines the effectiveness of mass media campaigns in the TV and national newspapers used by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) of Pakistan to increase awareness, tax filing, and, ultimately, tax morale. We use survey data that were collected in 2014 immediately after these mass media campaigns by the FBR. Using coarsened exact matching, we construct treatment and control groups that are nearly identical in terms of pretreatment balance of demographic and behavioral predictors of high tax morale. We find improved perceptions towards tax compliance in Pakistan for respondents exposed to the TV and newspaper advertisements. The choice of the advertisement's delivery device is important since the latter is more effective. Our findings provide empirical evidence that well-timed mass media campaigns can enhance voluntary tax compliance.
Large Volume Testing and Calibration

Large volume testing is expected in manufacturing for production. It is one of the operations that could be the determining factor for the success of an MEMS product. The function of the testing is to ensure that every part manufactured is a good part. Today, MEMS products, such as motion sensors and microphones for smart phones, are often just a portion of the many components used in the final product form—if any one of them is defected, the entire system may fail at any time. Hence, the impact of a defected die could be much bigger than just a component failure and would possibly cause situations such as production line down, schedule delay, unhappy customers, and moreover, a tarnished company reputation which affects future sales and even the sales of other product lines. The product quality is, therefore, one of the most important measures of the usability of an MEMS product. Additionally, the control of the test cost is quite often an on-going task for MEMS manufactures. Testing for MEMS could be many times more complex than that of typical semiconductor products. If not managed well, it could significantly affect the cost margin and render the product uncompetitive. In this chapter, we will use the piezoelectric MEMS resonators developed by Integrated Device Technology, Inc. (IDT) as examples to discuss the techniques used in MEMS manufacturing testing in details. Methodologies used in both test rejections and test time reduction (for test cost management) are discussed.
Tone Attrition in Mandarin Speakers of Varying English Proficiency

Purpose The purpose of this study was to determine whether the degree of dominance of Mandarin–English bilinguals' languages affects phonetic processing of tone content in their native language, Ma...
Warm and cold molecular gas conditions modelled in 87 galaxies observed by the Herschel SPIRE Fourier transform spectrometer

We have conducted two-component, non-LTE modeling of the CO lines from J = 1-0 through J = 13-12 in 87 galaxies observed by the Herschel SPIRE Fourier Transform Spectrometer (FTS). We find the average pressure of the cold molecular gas, traced especially by CO J = 1-0, is $\sim 10^{5.0 \pm 0.5}$ K cm$^{-3}$. The mid- to high-J lines of CO trace higher-pressure gas at $10^{6.5 \pm 0.6}$ K cm$^{-3}$; this pressure is slightly correlated with LFIR. Two components are often necessary to accurately fit the Spectral Line Energy Distributions (SLEDs); a one-component fit often underestimates the flux of CO J = 1-0 and the mass. If low-J lines are not included, mass is underestimated by an order of magnitude. Even when modeling the low-J lines alone or using an $\alpha_{CO}$ conversion factor, the mass should be considered to be uncertain to a factor of at least 0.4 dex, and the vast majority of the CO luminosity will be missed (median, 65%). We find a very large spread in our derived values of $\alpha_{CO}$, though they do not have a discernible trend with LFIR; the best fit is a constant 0.7 M$_{\odot}$/ (K kms$^{-1}$ pc$^2$), with a standard deviation of 0.36 dex, and a range of 0.3-1.6 M$_{\odot}$/ (K kms$^{-1}$ pc$^2$). We find average molecular gas depletion times ($\tau_{dep}$) of $10^8$ yr that decrease with increasing SFR. Finally, we note that the J = 11-10/J = 1-0 line flux ratio is diagnostic of the warm component pressure, and discuss the implications of this comprehensive study of SPIRE FTS extragalactic spectra for future study post-Herschel.
Data organization in spreadsheets

AbstractSpreadsheets are widely used software tools for data entry, storage, analysis, and visualization. Focusing on the data entry and storage aspects, this paper offers practical recommendations for organizing spreadsheet data to reduce errors and ease later analyses. The basic principles are: be consistent, write dates like YYYY-MM-DD, don't leave any cells empty, put just one thing in a cell, organize the data as a single rectangle (with subjects as rows and variables as columns, and with a single header row), create a data dictionary, don't include calculations in the raw data files, don't use font color or highlighting as data, choose good names for things, make backups, use data validation to avoid data entry errors, and save the data in plain text file.
Simplified Liénard Equation by Homotopy Analysis Method

The homotopy analysis method (HAM) has been shown to approximate solutions to nonlinear problems of various types. The method is useful because of the flexibility in defining the auxiliary parameter $$\hbar $$ and that no assumption concerning relative size of parameters is required. We use the HAM to approximate frequency and solution of a conservative nonlinear oscillator which has many applications including lasers, epidemics, and microparasites. The oscillator is modeled by the simplified Lienard Equation $$\ddot{x}+\epsilon {\dot{x}}x+x=0$$ . We compare our results for the weakly-nonlinear case to those gained from a more traditional perturbation technique, the Poincare–Lindstedt method. We then show results from the HAM in the strongly-nonlinear regime and discuss some benefits and limitations of the method including conditions for convergence.
Low Field Magnetic Susceptibility Of Dilute Alloys: Are Dilute CuMn and AuMn Magnetically Ordered?

The temperature dependence of the low field (~5 gauss) magnetic susceptibility, χ(T), of lower concentration (1, 5, 10 at.%) CuMn and AuMn alloys has been measured using a 155 Hz a–c technique. In contrast to the broad maxima found in earlier higher field measurements, sharp cusps were observed in χ (T) indicating the onset of antif erromagnetic ordering at well defined temperatures. The sharp transitions were found to be dependent upon the metallurgical state of the samples, and applied magnetic fields of ~100 G rounded the transitions. Analyses of 1/χ vs. T in the paramagnetic regions indicate substantial superparamagnetic clustering in the higher concentration samples.
Anti-mitogenic effects of bitter taste receptor (BTR) agonists on human airway smooth muscle cells

Supported by AAF Rationale: Obstructive diseases of airways such as asthma and COPD are characterized by airway remodeling. Clinical studies and animal models have demonstrated that ASM mass is increased in asthma, and ASM thickness is correlated with severity of the disease. Current asthma medications control inflammation and reverse airway obstruction effectively, yet have very limited effects in deterring airway remodeling. Recently we identified the expression of BTRs on human ASM cells. Activation with known BTR agonists resulted in elevation of intracellular calcium, membrane hyperpolarization and ASM relaxation. Aerosol challenge in normal and allergen sensitizedand challengedmice resulted in a robust bronchodilation. Another recent study demonstrated that BTR expression, signaling and bronchodilatory effects are preserved during human asthma. These studies suggest that BTRs can be used as new therapeutic targets in the clinical management of obstructive lung diseases. The current study aimed at determining the effect of BTR agonists on ASM growth. Methods: Primary human ASM cells maintained in culture were pretreated with different concentrations of BTR agonists, chloroquine and quinine or vehicle, then stimulated with ASM mitogens fetal bovine serum (FBS), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) or epithelial growth factor (EGF). Regulation of ASM growth was subsequently assessed by cell counts, CyQuant assay and 3H-thymidine-incorporation assays. Parallel studies assessed the effects of BTR agonists on key mitogenic signaling pathways in the ASM by Western blotting. Results: In CyQuant assays, chloroquine and quinine significantly inhibited growth of normal and astmatic human ASM cells induced by each mitogen in a concentrationdependent manner. BTR agonists also inhibited increases in ASM cell number suggesting their anti-mitogenic effect is mediated via inhibition of hyperplasia. BTR agonists did not induce apoptosis or cell death in human ASM. Growth inhibitory effects of BTR agonists in ASM cells were not dependent on protein kinase A (PKA) as demonstrated for other Gs coupled G protein coupled receptor agonists (e.g. β-agonists and PGE2). Western blot analyses of key mitogenic signaling demonstrated that BTR agonists inhibit mitogen-induced activation of p42/p44, p38 and Akt pathways. Conclusion: Collectively, these data suggest that BTR agonists inhibit ASM cell growth by inhibiting key mitogenic signaling pathways in ASM via PKA-independent mechanism, suggesting a novel and unexploited mode of inhibiting ASM growth. Future studies are needed to establish in vivo effectiveness of BTR agonists on airway remodeling.
Injury induces endothelial to mesenchymal transition in the mouse corneal endothelium in vivo via FGF2

Purpose To determine whether the mouse corneal endothelium enters endothelial to mesenchymal transition (EndoMT) following surgical injury in vivo. Methods The corneal endothelium in anesthetized mice was surgically injured in vivo under direct visualization. The secretion of interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) into the aqueous humor was analyzed with western blotting. The expression of FGF2, Snai1, Zeb1, Col1a1, Col1a2, Fn1, Vim, Cdk2, Ccne1, and Cdh1 was analyzed with semiquantitative RT-PCR in the mouse corneal endothelium ex vivo and in vivo. Knockdown of FGF2 was done using siRNA. Col8a2 was used as a corneal endothelial marker, and Keratocan (Ktcn) was used as a stromal marker. β-actin was used as a loading control. Results Sequential expression of IL-1β and FGF2 was detected in the aqueous humor after surgical injury. FGF2 treatment induced expression of endothelial to mesenchymal transition-related genes including Snai1, and Zeb1 in the mouse ex vivo corneal endothelium. This led to increased expression of Col1a1, Col1a2, Fn1, and Vim and suppression of Cdh1 in a time-dependent manner. Expression of FGF2, Snai1, Zeb1, Col1a1, Col1a2, Fn1, Vim, Cdk2, and Ccne1 was completely abolished by FGF2 siRNA knockdown in the mouse corneal endothelium ex vivo. Surgical injury induced FGF2 expression in the in vivo mouse corneal endothelium. The injury-dependent expression of FGF2, Snai1, Zeb1, Col1a1, Col1a2, Fn1, Vim, Cdk2, and Ccne1 and the suppression of Cdh1 were inhibited by siRNA knockdown of FGF in the mouse corneal endothelium in vivo. Moreover, siRNA knockdown of FGF2 inhibited the formation of the injury-dependent retrocorneal membrane in the in vivo mouse corneal endothelium. Conclusions These findings suggest that after surgical injury, FGF2 induces the expression of EndoMT-related genes Snai1, Zeb1, Col1a1, Col1a2, Fn1, Vim, Cdk2, and Ccne1 in the mouse corneal endothelium in vivo, similar to the human corneal endothelium ex vivo.
A Conservation Law Method Based on Optimization

This chapter is organized as follows: In Sect. 8.1, we warm up with an analytical solution for simple 1-D quadratic function. In Sect. 8.2, we propose the artificially dissipating energy algorithm, energy conservation algorithm, and the combined algorithm based on the symplectic Euler scheme, and remark a second-order scheme—the Stormer–Verlet scheme. In Sect. 8.3, we propose the locally theoretical analysis for high-speed convergence. Section 8.4 proposes the experimental demonstration. In Sect. 8.4, we propose the experimental result for the proposed algorithms on strongly convex, non-strongly convex, and non-convex functions in high dimension. Finally, we propose some perspective view for the proposed algorithms and two adventurous ideas based on the evolution of Newton’s second law—fluid and quantum.
Complications Associated With Epidural Steroid Injections

Background and Objectives Warnings about the hazards of epidural steroid injections occasionally appear in both medical and lay literature despite a lack of objective data to support such concerns. This literature review was undertaken to survey reports of adverse reactions associated with that procedure. Methods The following types of publications from peer-reviewed medical literature was surveyed: reports on series of epidural and subarachnoid steroid injections for sciatica; reports of adverse effects of epidural and subarachnoid steroid injections for sciatica; review articles on epidural and subarachnoid steroid injections; and studies of the behavioral and histologic effects of epidural steroids and their vehicle in animals. Results Several cases of aseptic meningitis, arachnoiditis, and bacterial meningitis and one case of conus medullaris syndrome have been reported after subarachnoid steroid injections. Most of these complications occurred after multiple subarachnoid injections. Two cases of epidural abscess, one case of bacterial meningitis, and one case of aseptic meningitis have been reported following epidural steroid injections. Subarachnoid drug placement could not be ruled out in the meningitis cases. Conclusions There are few published reports of serious complications following epidural steroid injections. There are a few published reports of complications following subarachnoid steroid injections, most of which were associated with multiple injections over a prolonged time period.
Symptomatic Lumbar Discal Cyst: A Rare Entity that Can Mimic Other Lumbar Cystic Lesions

Lumbar discal cyst (LDC) is a rare clinical entity with unclear etiology. Three theories have been proposed to describe the pathogenesis of this condition: (i) a reaction to spinal epidural hematoma; (ii) a pseudomembrane formation that follows the focal annular tear and disc degeneration; and (iii) an inflammatory reaction to the herniated disc fragment. It usually presents with radicular symptoms. Radiographically, LDC can mimic other cystic lesions of the lumbar spine. Imaging nuances such as scalloping of the vertebral body, contrast filling with discography, and MRI signal intensity on different sequences can help to establish a diagnosis of LDC. However, there are no clear guidelines on the best treatment approach. Several treatment options have been prescribed to treat LDC with good outcomes. Here we describe a case of LDC that presented with left-sided radicular symptoms for several months and had not undergone any initial conservative management. The patient was treated successfully with microscopic resection of the cyst with complete resolution of the symptoms.
Representation of women in speaking roles at surgical conferences.

Abstract Background There are a number of factors that may hinder women's surgical careers. Here, we focus on one possible factor: the representation of women at surgical conferences. Methods Using a purposive sample of 16 national surgical societies, we assessed the proportion of women speakers at each society's annual meeting in plenary speaker and session speaker (panelist and moderator) roles in 2011 and 2016. Results Overall, 23.8% (28,591/120,351) of all society members were women. Of the 129 plenary speakers, 19.4% (n = 25) were women. Twelve conferences (42.9%) had zero women as plenary speakers. Of the 5,161 session speakers, 1,120 (21.7%) were women. Three-hundred fifty-three (39.5%) of the 893 panels included only male speakers. The proportion of women on conference organizing committees was positively correlated with having women session speakers (r = 0.71, p= Conclusions There is underrepresentation of women as conference speakers, particularly in plenary roles. There was wide variability in the representation of women across conferences.
Making the invisible visible: the current face of tuberculosis in Detroit, Michigan, USA

To describe the socioeconomic inequities among individuals with tuberculosis (TB) in metropolitan Detroit. We used data from the TB Social Survey to examine socioeconomic and demographic characteri...