cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Improving branch prediction accuracy in embedded processors in the presence of context switches

Embedded processors like Intel's XScale use dynamic branch prediction to improve performance. Due to the presence of context switches, the accuracy of these predictors is reduced because they end up storing prediction histories for several processes. We show that the loss in accuracy can be significant and depends on predictor type and size. Several new schemes are proposed to save and restore the predictor state, on context switches in order to improve prediction accuracy. The schemes differ in the amount of information they save and vary in their accuracy improvement. It is shown that even for a small 128 entry skew predictor, 2-6% improvement in prediction rate can be achieved (for an average context interval of 100K instructions) for different embedded applications while saving and restoring a minimal amount of state information (less than 32bits) on a context switch.
Effects of β–-Emitting 188Re Balloon in Stented Porcine Coronary Arteries An Angiographic, Intravascular Ultrasound, and Histomorphometric Study

Background—Restenosis within stents may be prevented by ionizing radiation from an intravascular source. Methods and Results—A liquid β− radiation (188Re) balloon was evaluated in a randomized and blinded porcine coronary model of stent restenosis. Group A pigs (n=17) received 0,16, 22, or 29 Gy at 0.5-mm depth, followed by stenting. Restenosis was quantified by angiography, ultrasound, and histomorphometry at 30 days. Group B (n=7) was stented first and then treated with 0 or 29 Gy with follow-up at 60 days. There was a measurable effect at 16 Gy, which improved with increasing doses. At 29 Gy, the histological stenotic area was reduced by 67% (22% versus 66% in controls, P<0.001). Radiation after stenting was equally effective; the stenotic area was reduced (21% versus 65%, P<0.001). At 16 Gy, the vessel just distal to the stent was significantly smaller than control vessels because of intimal thickening (P=0.003). Radiated vessels had distinctive histology consisting of neointimal fibrin and reduced sm...
Efficient third-harmonic generation in partly periodically poled KTiOPO(4) crystal.

A partly periodically poled KTiOPO4 (KTP) crystal has been designed to integrate quasi-phase-matched second-harmonic generation (QPM SHG) with sum-frequency generation in one crystal for generating a third-harmonic beam. The highest conversion efficiencies of 45% and 3% have been achieved in our experiments for QPM SHG and third-harmonic generation, respectively, by use of picosecond laser pulses at 1.327 μm. We have also discovered that periodically poled KTP has slightly different indices nz from bulk KTP.
Language Acquisition Among Adult Immigrants in Canada: The Effect of Premigration Language Capital

Gaining proficiency in the host country language is a key element to successful integration of new immigrants. In this article, the author adopts Bourdieu’s perspective that accumulation and conver...
The environmental cost of processing cotton

For generations Lancashire has been synonomous with the cotton processing industry. Cheap fuel and a plentiful supply of high-quality water has been the foundation for numerous success stories. However, years of production have left its mark on the environment and the industry today has been left to pay the bill. Peter Lockett highlights current problems facing cotton processors.
Introduction to modeling and simulation

This introductory tutorial is an overview of simulation modeling and analysis. Many critical questions are answered in the paper. What is modeling? What is simulation? What is simulation modeling and analysis? What types of problems are suitable for simulation? How to select simulation software? What are the benefits and pitfalls in modeling and simulation? The intended audience is those unfamiliar with the area of discrete event simulation as well as beginners looking for an overview of the area. This includes anyone who is involved in system design and modification - system analysts, management personnel, engineers, military planners, economists, banking analysts, and computer scientists. Familiarity with probability and statistics is assumed.
Performance Comparison of Large Design-Build and Design-Bid-Build Highway Projects

This study compares and analyzes the relationship of design-build (DB) and design-bid-build (DBB) project delivery methods with performance metrics of large highway projects (>$50 million). Project performance is measured in cost, schedule, and change orders on these two types of highway projects. This study also investigates associations between project characteristics (input variables) and project performance (output variables) of large highway projects. The performance comparison methodology used here is derived from work done on a Texas Department of Transportation study of the State Highway 130 Project. The study results show that the construction speed and project delivery speed per lane mile (or lane kilometer) of DB projects were significantly faster than that of DBB projects for this sample. The study also showed that out of 21 inputs analyzed, 14 inputs have statistically significant associations with one or more outputs of these projects.
'My husband would not help me, so I was driving over there': older rural women experiencing breast cancer with a non-supportive intimate partner.

Introduction This article describes the experiences of older rural women diagnosed with breast cancer while in a non-supportive, and sometimes abusive, intimate relationship. Breast cancer is primarily a disease of older women, and in the USA, a higher percentage of rural women are more than 65 years of age compared with other geographical areas. Many women identify their intimate partner as an important source of support during cancer diagnosis and recovery, but little is known about how women deal with breast cancer while in a relationship self-described as difficult. Methods Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with a convenience sample of nine rural women from community settings in western Virginia and West Virginia. Participants ranged in age from 55 to 84 years at the time of interview (mean 69 years). Age at diagnosis ranged from 53 to 71 years (mean 59.2). Relationship length ranged from 1 to 55 years (mean 28.5). Time between interview and diagnosis ranged from 1 to 31 years (mean 9.8). All were in heterosexual relationships. Breast cancer stage ranged from I to III. Data were analyzed using hermeneutic phenomenological analysis. Results Several themes emerged related to the experience of breast cancer with a non-supportive intimate partner in a rural setting. The themes were: driving, gossip, rural location as therapeutic, and community support. Conclusions Older rural women operating without the support of their intimate partner present to oncology treatment with unique challenges, particularly related to distance, financial stress, and sometimes heightened relationship stress. Rural women also reported rural strengths that aided them in their recovery. These findings indicate a need for complete assessments of social network and quality of intimate partner support in the rural oncology care setting.
Optofluidic biosensors based on color imaging

A color CCD (charge-coupled device) camera is used as a chemical detector to quantify fluorescence emission intensities from two kinds of optofluidic device platforms. The fluorophores responsive to oxygen are immobilized in photo-patternable hydrogel matrices. The first device is a hydrogel sensor array formed within a commercial silicone elastomer imaging chamber. The second one involves a double-chamber fluidic device composed of a permeable membrane layer and dry film photoresist layers. The results suggest that digital color imagers, in combination with a simple color separation method, can serve as the high quality chemical detectors for fluidic biosensors and biological culture platforms.
Reduced nitric oxide production by endothelial cells in cirrhotic rat liver: Endothelial dysfunction in portal hypertension

Abstract Background & Aims: Intrahepatic vascular resistance is regulated in part by the vasoconstricting and relaxing effects of compounds such as endothelin and nitric oxide (NO). Although the hepatic endothelium is likely to be a prominent source of NO via production by endothelial cell NO synthase (ecNOS), this isoform has not been described in sinusoidal endothelial cells (SECs). The aim of this study was to determine whether ecNOS is produced by SECs, and, if so, to determine whether ecNOS- (mRNA/protein) or SEC-dependent production of NO varies after liver injury. Methods: A cDNA encoding a 279–bp fragment homologous to bovine ecNOS was isolated and used to detect rat ecNOS mRNA. Liver injury and/or cirrhosis was induced by bile duct ligation or administration of CCl4. NOS activity was quantitated and the presence of NO was detected with highly sensitive nitrite and cGMP assays. Results: ecNOS mRNA and protein (detected by immunoblot) were present only in SECs. Neither ecNOS mRNA abundance nor protein levels varied after liver injury induced by bile duct ligation or repeated CCl4 administration, including in animals with cirrhosis. Because inducible NOS is induced after bile duct ligation but not after CCl4-induced cirrhosis, we examined NOS activity and nitrite- and NO-dependent cGMP production after the latter form of injury. NOS activity and nitrite and cGMP production were significantly reduced in SECs from cirrhotic animals compared with controls (P GASTROENTEROLOGY 1998;114:344-351
Energy-aware target localization in wireless sensor networks

Wireless distributed sensor networks (DSNs) are important for a number of strategic applications such as coordinated target detection, surveillance, and localization. Energy is a critical resource in wireless sensor networks and system lifetime needs to be prolonged through the use of energy-conscious sensing strategies during system operation. We propose an energy-aware target detection and localization strategy for cluster-based wireless sensor networks based on an a posteriori algorithm with a two-step communication protocol between the cluster head and the sensors within the cluster With a very limited amount of data from the sensor nodes, the cluster head executes a localization procedure to determine the subset of sensors that must be queried for detailed target information. This approach reduces both energy consumption and communication bandwidth requirements, and prolongs the lifetime of the wireless sensor network. Simulation results show that a large amount of energy is saved during target localization using this strategy.
Reproductive technology for procreation, experimentation, and profit. Protecting rights and setting limits.

(1990). Reproductive technology for procreation, experimentation, and profit. Journal of Legal Medicine: Vol. 11, No. 1, pp. 1-57.
Failure to understand a failure: a reply to Cole and Burd.

Cole and Burd (1978) suggest that Forbes and Lebo (1977) analyzed their data and reported their results incorrectly. Cole and Burd's criticisms, statistics, and conclusions are in error. In the Forbes and Lebo analysis of variance, each day of the study was given a score indicating the arrests occurring on that day. While this procedure represents a technical violation of some assumptions of analysis of variance, the procedure is a commonplace and generally accepted practice. The chi-square analysis reported by Cole and Burd is incorrect because of an error in the computation of expected frequencies. Lunar and calendar time are nor equal, and there is a fractional calendar day at the end of each lunar cycle. Because the precise hour of an arrest could not be determined, the fractional day was included in either the preceding or following quarter. Consequently, some lunar cycles were represented by 28 days, and some by 29. Since this information was omitted from the article, Cole and Burd had no way to compute expected frequencies correctly. It is important to recognize that with data of this type, even a correctly computed frequency analysis will defy interpretation. This is because there was a very large increase (approximately 300% ) in the number of arrests over the course of the study. A simple frequency analysis of the data grossly distorts relationships by giving disproportionate
Trajectory Interpolation for Parametrized Maneuvering and Flexible Motion Planning of Autonomous Vehicles

This paper describes a method of generating continuously parametrized maneuver classes based on a finite number of user-provided examples motions. A trajectory interpolation algorithm performs a smooth transformation of vehicle maneuvers across a continuous range of boundary conditions while enforcing nonlinear system equations of motion as well as nonlinear equality and inequality constraints. The scheme is particularly useful for describing motions that deviate widely from the range of linearized dynamics and where satisfactory examples may be found from off-line nonlinear programming solutions or human pilot motion capture. The interpolation algorithm is computationally efficient, making it a suitable alternative for near real-time maneuver synthesis, particularly when used in concert with a vehicle motion planner. Experimental application to a three degree-of-freedom rotorcraft test bed demonstrates the essential features of system and trajectory modeling, maneuver example selection, maneuver class synthesis, and integration into a hybrid system path planner.
The Agaric Flora of Texas. III. New Taxa of Brown- and Black-Spored Agarics

Pileus 0.9-1.3 cm broad, conic to subconic, unchanging or becoming convex with age, margin slightly incurved when young becoming straight when older, entire to eroded; surface moist, atomate, glabrous, striate to the disc when moist, evenly dark brown to umber ("snuff brown" 3 to "Saccardo's umber") to occasionally brown ("sayal brown") during all stages of development. Flesh thin (c. 2 mm), brittle, concolorous with the surface; taste and odor not distinctive. Lamellae close to subdistant, ascending-adnate to adnexed, becoming free with age, narrow, thin, light brown to pale fulvous ("clay color" to "ochraceous tawny") at maturity; margin entire, concolorous with the gill faces; lamellulae of 1-2 lengths. Stipe 4-6.5 cm long, 0.5-1 mm broad at the apex, tapering slightly toward the apex, solid, translucent; surface glabrous except for white fibrils at the base, moist, olivaceous to yellow ("pale olive buff" to "Marguerite yellow") during all stages of development.
Comparison between radiofrequency targeted vertebral augmentation and balloon kyphoplasty in the treatment of vertebral compression fractures: addressing factors that affect cement extravasation and distribution.

BACKGROUND Both vertebroplasty and balloon kyphoplasty have been described for treatment of vertebral compression fractures. Vertebroplasty is known for its high leakage rate compared with balloon kyphoplasty. In vitro studies have shown that high-viscosity cements significantly decrease the incidence of cement leakage and increase the predictability of cement fill in cancellous bonelike substrates compared with low-viscosity cements. OBJECTIVE This study compares the incidence and pattern of cement leakage in cases treated with standard balloon kyphoplasty (BKP) and a novel vertebral augmentation procedure, radiofrequency targeted vertebral augmentation (RF-TVA). STUDY DESIGN Retrospective evaluation of postoperative radiographs. SETTING Single center inpatient and outpatient population. METHODS Two methods of vertebral augmentation were utilized. Conventional bipedicular BKP and RF-TVA, a novel unipedicular technique which uses a navigational osteotome to create targeted, bone sparing cavities and RF energy to deliver an ultra-high viscosity cement at a consistent rate via a remote controlled, automated hydraulic delivery system. Postoperative radiographs of patients treated with the 2 techniques were critically analyzed for the incidence and location of cement leakage. Eighty consecutive patients with 106 treated levels were included. Thirty-five patients with 49 levels in the BKP and 45 patients with 57 levels in RF-TVA group were evaluated. RESULTS Leakages less than 1-2 mm were not reported since they may not represent any clinical significance. In the BKP group, 6 leakages (12%) were reported (3 discal, 2 venous, one paravaertebral, and no epidural). In the RF-TVA group, a total of 3 leakages (5%) were reported, (one discal, 2 venous, no paravaertebral or epidural). Using contingency analysis for leakage per level, there was a statistical difference for leakage between RF-TVA and standard BKP, P < 0.01. LIMITATIONS Retrospective study, single center. CONCLUSIONS The RF-TVA technique may provide an approximately 50% reduction in leakage rate when compared to standard BKP. This may be related to the combination of controlled delivery of radiofrequency activated (high viscosity) cement at a fixed, low rate of delivery into site-specific channels created using a navigational osteotome. Additionally, based on the unipedicular access and remotely controlled cement delivery RF-TVA may decrease procedural invasiveness and physician radiation exposure, respectively.INSTITUTIONAL REVIEW: This study was approved by the Institutional Review Board.
Risk of Miscarriage and a Common Variant of the Estrogen Receptor Gene

An inherited variant of the estrogen receptor gene was previously suggested to be a major determinant of a woman's risk of miscarriage. The authors tested this hypothesis in a case-control study of 29 women who had had two or more miscarriages and 29 women with no miscarriages. All of the women had given birth in North Carolina between 1987 and 1990. Estrogen receptor genotype was determined by direct sequencing of DNA. The gene variant that supposedly produced the risk was found to contain only a silent substitution at codon 87. Furthermore, instead of an odds ratio of 25 (predicted by the previous study), the odds ratio found was 1.8 (95% confidence interval 0.3-11). For a hypothesis which now lacks biologic plausibility, this weak association provides little reason for further investigation.
Twelve messages from enteric infections for science and society.

Diarrheal diseases hold profound messages as well as opportunities that range from public health to basic science. From the spread of cholera around the world, we are reminded of the global impact of tropical diseases, that disease may provide a litmus test for poverty to drive a sanitary revolution, that disease spread may be worsened by political denial, and that many ecologic and epidemiologic secrets such as interepidemic microbial niches remain poorly understood. Diarrheal diseases other than cholera teach us that heavy disease burdens do not control population growth but are associated with population overgrowth (i.e., improved health is key to controlling the population explosion), the societal impact of diarrhea morbidity may exceed even that of its mortality, that new agents continue to emerge, and that nosocomial diarrhea is an underrecognized threat in our hospitals. Finally, from the laboratory of the developing world also come messages for basic science. Microbial toxins continue to elucidate a new understanding of cell signaling, and mechanisms once thought to be clear (such as that of cholera toxin) now appear much more complex. Traditional remedies hold new pharmacologic secrets, e.g., such as gingko extracts that inhibit platelet-activating factor. Finally, from basic physiology can come widely applicable practical solutions such as oral rehydration therapy and simplified diagnostics for inflammatory diarrhea. Health problems such as diarrheal diseases that plague the disadvantaged are linked to population overgrowth and provide some of the greatest challenges to modern science and the industrialized world.
Laboratory Analysis of Hair from Hunting Net A-22,415 in the Collections of the Arizona State Museum

ABSTRACTThe microscopic examination of hair from a prehistoric hunting net (A-22,415) indicates that it is of human origin. The pigment granulation, scale pattern and overall similarity between the hairs suggests that they may be from a single source.
Continuous Dependence and Uniqueness

Theorem 5.1. Suppose D is an open set in R × C, fk D → Rn, k = 0,1,2,… are continuous, fk(s,Ψ) → fo(s,ψ) as k → ∞,ψ →ϕ for all (s,ϕ) ∈ D, and for every compact set W in D, there is an open neighborhood V(W) of W and a constant M > O such that $$\left| {{\rm{f}}_{\rm{k}} \left( {{\rm{t}},{\rm{\psi }}} \right)} \right| \le {\rm{M, }}\left( {{\rm{t}},{\rm{\psi }}} \right) \in {\rm{V}}\left( {\rm{W}} \right),{\rm{k = 0,1,2,}} \ldots $$ (5.1) Finally, suppose σk ∈ R, ϕk ∈ C, (σk,ϕk) ∈ D, k = 0,1,2,…, σk → σo, ϕk →σo as k →∞ and suppose xk = xk (σk,ϕk), k = 0,1,2,… is a solution of $${\rm{\dot x}}^{\rm{k}} \left( {\rm{t}} \right) = {\rm{f}}_{\rm{k}} \left( {{\rm{t}},{\rm{x}}_{\rm{t}}^{\rm{k}} } \right),{\rm{t}} \ge \sigma _{\rm{k}}$$ (5.2) with initial value ϕk at σk. If xo is defined on [σo−r,b] and is the only solution through (σo,ϕo),then there is an integer ko such that each xk, k ≥ ko, can be defined on [σk−r,b] and xk(t) →xo (t) uniformly on [σo−r,b]. Since all xk may not be defined on [σo−r,b], by xk →xo uniformly on [σo−r,b], we mean that for any e > o, there is a ko = ko(e) ≥ 0 such that xk (t), k ≥ ko, is defined on [σ−r−e,b] and xk (t) →xo(t) uniformly for t ∈ [σ−r−e,b].
Improved Survival with Decreased Wait Time to Surgery in Glioblastoma Patients Presenting with Seizure

Background Preoperative seizure is reported to confer favorable prognosis in glioblastoma patients, but studies to date have not investigated how broadly applicable seizure is as a prognostic factor. Objective To investigate if prompter surgical intervention affects the relationship between preoperative seizure and prognosis in glioblastoma patients, focusing on the development of tumor growth and/or additional preoperative symptoms after seizure. Methods Retrospective analysis of 443 patients (mean age = 60.2; 60% male) undergoing first glioblastoma resection at our institution (2005-2011). Results Preoperative seizure(s) occurred in 28% of patients (n = 124), of which 63 (51%) had only seizure at presentation. Patients experiencing seizure as their only preoperative symptom ("seizure-only"; n = 45) survived over twice as long as patients who presented with seizure and then later developed additional preoperative symptoms (n = 18; "other symptoms postseizure"; 26.8 vs 10.2 months, P 45 days (P Conclusion Seizure as the only preoperative symptom independently improved survival, however, when patients developed additional preoperative symptoms, typically due to surgical delay, no prognostic benefit was observed. Prompt diagnosis and neurosurgical intervention is warranted in patients with seizures without other preoperative symptoms to preserve their favorable prognosis.
Contemporary outcomes of thoracofemoral bypass

Abstract Objective Thoracofemoral bypass (TFB) is an alternative to aortofemoral bypass (AFB) or extra-anatomic bypass for severe aortoiliac occlusive disease (AIOD). TFB may be particularly useful in select patients with concurrent visceral aortic branch vessel disease, infrarenal aortic occlusions, or after failed AFB. However, there are few contemporary series describing the indications and outcomes for TFB. Therefore, the purpose of this analysis was to review our experience with TFB. Methods All patients undergoing TFB for occlusive disease from 2002 to 2017 were reviewed. All patients underwent left thoracoretroperitoneal exposure of the supraceliac aorta with division of the diaphragmatic crus and supraceliac cross-clamping. An end-to-side aortic anastomosis was created and each graft limb was tunneled in the retroperitoneum to the femoral bifurcation. Adjunctive visceral/infrainguinal revascularization was performed selectively based on symptoms, end-organ function, and/or preoperative imaging. The primary end points were major complications and 30-day mortality. Secondary end points included limb patency, freedom from major adverse limb events, and survival. Kaplan-Meier methodology was used to characterize the end points. Results Forty-one patients (age 61 ± 9 years; 54% female; 7% in a hypercoaguable state) underwent TFB. The mean preoperative ankle-brachial index was 0.4 bilaterally. Indications included critical limb ischemia (56%), claudication (30%), acute limb ischemia (7%), and combined AIOD and mesenteric ischemia (7%). Seven patients (17%) had previously undergone AFB and 15 (38%) had previously undergone any prior aortic operation. Adjunctive visceral bypass occurred in 8 patients (20%; N = 14 grafts, n = 6 renal, n = 5 superior mesenteric artery, and n = 3 celiac). The postoperative duration of stay was 11 days (interquartile range [IQR], 7-16 days) and the 30-day mortality was 5% (n = 2). Major complications occurred in 34% of patients (N = 14; pulmonary, 15%; cardiac, 12%; bleeding, 7%; accidental splenectomy, 5%; renal, 5%; wound, 2%). The mean postoperative ankle-brachial index was 0.9 bilaterally. At a median follow-up of 7 months (IQR, 1-17 months), 5 patients (12%) underwent some form of reintervention (graft/limb related, n = 4 [n = 2 graft thrombosis, n = 2 graft infection], n = 1 mesenteric bypass revision). The estimated 3-year primary limb patency and freedom from major adverse limb events were 80 ± 10%, and 70 ± 10%, respectively. The estimated 5-year survival was 93 ± 5% (median, 27.3; IQR, 14.5-35.2; 95% confidence interval, 17.9-32.8). Conclusions This experience represents one of the largest and most current series of retroperitoneal TFB. We demonstrate that TFB can be performed with good outcomes for patients with severe AIOD, especially if concomitant visceral/infrainguinal reconstruction is warranted. These results support a continued role for TFB in select patients.
Integration and Measures on Manifolds

Throughout this chapter, unless otherwise specified, we use the word manifold to denote manifolds possibly having boundaries. From §3 to the end, we let X be a manifold of class Cp with p ≧ 1, which is Hausdorff and has a countable base. These last two assumptions are to ensure that X admits Cp partitions of unity, subordinated to any given open covering.
Miedo, raza y nación: Bello, Lastarria y la revisión del pasado colonial

El ensayo examina la revision del pasado colonial que llevan a cabo dos de los ensayistas decimononicos mas destacados de su epoca: Jose Victorino Lastarria y Andres Bello. Mi interes es explorar las contradicciones inherentes que se destacan en la articulacion del proyecto nacional que persiguen ambos escritores. Debido a la escasez de estudios basados en el caracter critico y la faceta persuasiva del genero ensayistico, y su relacion con los proyectos de formacion nacional, creo que este ensayo podria aportar ideas sugerentes al campo de los estudios coloniales y decimononicos. This essay examines the revision work of the colonial past undertaken by two of the most distinguished essayists of the XIX Century, J V. Lastarria and Andres Bello. My chief concern is with exploring the inherent contradictions that stand out in the articulation of the national project proposed by both authors. In view of scarcity of studies relating of the critical character and persuasive intention of essay genre, i beliebe this essay can contribute significantly to the field of Colonial and Nineteenth Century studies.
One-Determinental Theory of Chemical Reactivity

Qualitative organic theory involves the reduction of quantum mechanical equations to simple concepts. We examine the sequential steps needed to make a transition from the ab initio Self Consistent Field MO (SCF MO) method to the qualitative One Electron MO (OEMO) model which currently constitutes the theoretical framework for most discussions of organic chemical problems.
The Relationship Between the International Criminal Court (ICC) and Truth Commissions

The relationship between the International Criminal Court (hereafter referred to as ICC) and truth commissions is one that has often been described as conflicting and irreconcilable. Those in favor of strict retributive justice argue that the essence of the ICC toward ending impunity is such that it cannot exist harmoniously with truth commissions. This chapter proposes to examine if such assertions are in fact credible or if they can be negated on the basis of the intended meaning afforded to certain provisions of the Rome Statute.
Veterinary certification for emergency slaughter of cattle.

I would like to remind veterinary surgeons that carcases from livestock that have been slaughtered outside of an approved slaughterhouse will only be accepted into an approved slaughterhouse for dressing if they meet the criteria for emergency slaughter and are accompanied by correct certification. The Scottish Livestock Welfare Group (SLWG) is aware of recent incidents …
Fetal programming effects of early weaning on subsequent parity calf performance

Mature Simmental × Angus cows [n = 147; body weight (BW) = 590 ± 72 kg] were used to evaluate the effects of early weaning on subsequent parity calf growth performance and carcass characteristics. Cows were assigned to one of two treatments based on their previous calf's weaning age: early wean (EW) or conventional wean (CW). Dams assigned to the EW treatment had calves previously weaned at 88 ± 6 d of age, whereas dams assigned to the CW treatment had calves previously weaned at 185 ± 6 d of age. Cow BW and body condition scores (BCS) were monitored during the experiment. All cows were managed as a common group from the onset of the experiment at breeding until final pregnancy check of their next production cycle 462 d later. All calves in the experiment were managed as one group and weaned at a single time point, then feedlot performance and carcass characteristics were evaluated. Initial cow BW was different (P < 0.05), so it was included as a covariate for cow BW analysis. There was a treatment × date interaction (P < 0.01) for cow BW and cow BCS. Cow BW was consistently greater for the EW treatment from day 39 to the end of the experiment (P < 0.01). Cow BCS were not different at the onset of the experiment (P = 0.20), although after breeding and throughout lactation, BCS diverged between treatments and the EW treatment consistently had greater (P < 0.01) BCS than the CW treatment throughout the entire subsequent lactation. Gestation length was not different (P = 0.21) between treatments, yet calf birth BW was greater (P = 0.05) for the EW treatment. Neither artificially inseminated pregnancy percentage nor overall pregnancy percentage was different between treatments (P ≥ 0.61). Despite the greater birth BW for the EW treatment and no difference (P = 0.25) in milk production, weaning BW was not different (P = 0.50) between treatments. Feedlot performance measures were not different (P ≥ 0.13) between treatments, including feedlot arrival weight, final BW, average daily gain, dry matter intake, and gain to feed. Final carcass characteristics were not different (P ≥ 0.33) between treatments, including dressing percentage, hot carcass weight, LM area, 12th rib fat thickness, kidney, pelvic, heart fat percentage, USDA yield grade, and marbling score. Thus, early weaning resulted in improved BW and BCS of cows as well as increased birth BW of subsequent calf, although that did not transpire into differences in postnatal growth performance or carcass traits.
Non-viral Gene Therapy for Stargardt Disease with ECO/pRHO-ABCA4 Self-Assembled Nanoparticles

Stargardt disease (STGD) is an autosomal recessive retinal disorder caused by a monogenic ABCA4 mutation. Currently, there is no effective therapy to cure Stargardt disease. The replacement of mutated ABCA4 with a functional gene remains an attractive strategy. In this study, we have developed a non-viral gene therapy using nanoparticles self-assembled by a multifunctional pH-sensitive amino lipid ECO and a therapeutic ABCA4 plasmid. The nanoparticles mediated efficient intracellular gene transduction in wild-type (WT) and Abca4−/− mice. Specific ABCA4 expression in the outer segment of photoreceptors was achieved by incorporating a rhodopsin promoter into the plasmids. The ECO/pRHO-ABCA4 nanoparticles induced substantial and specific ABCA4 expression for at least 8 months, 35% reduction in A2E accumulation on average, and a delayed Stargardt disease progression for at least 6 months in Abca4−/− mice. ECO/plasmid nanoparticles constitute a promising non-viral gene therapy platform for Stargardt disease and other visual dystrophies.
Parking functions on directed stars and orientation reversal with an extension to general directed trees

Parking functions, classically defined in terms of cars with preferred parking spots on a directed path attempting to park there, arise in many combinatorial situations and have seen various generalizations. In particular, parking functions have been defined for general digraphs, which yields many more enumeration problems. For example, in a directed tree whose edges are orientated away from the root, it is unknown in general how the number of parking functions on it changes once the orientation is reversed, even in the case when the tree is a star. We show that this orientation reversal results in more parking functions on the directed star in most cases, after which we extend these methods to show that this also results in more parking functions on the general directed tree if, in some sense, the number of vertices greatly exceeds the number of cars.
Accidental Magnetic Resonance Imaging Activation of Carbon Dioxide Tissue Expanders.

Implant-based reconstruction is the most common form of breast reconstruction following mastectomy. It is most often performed in 2 stages using saline-based tissue expanders, which are then exchanged for permanent implants. Serial expansions are performed by accessing a port in the office, an inconvenient and sometimes painful process. A carbon dioxide tissue expander is a device that provides a needle-free, patient-controlled expansion utilizing a remote-controlled CO2 canister. While a patient-controlled expansion offers convenience, given that the CO2 reservoir holds approximately 1500 mL of gas, the potential for malfunction resulting in an uncontrolled expansion in unique to this device. The authors present a case report of a patient with bilateral pre-pectoral tissue expanders who underwent magnetic resonance imaging, resulting in uncontrolled expansion. Level of Evidence 5
3D Reconstruction of Na+, K+-ATpase from Tubular Crystals

The Na+,K+-ATPase is a transmembrane protein, located in the plasma membrane of virtually all animal cells, which controls Na+ and K+ gradients. It is a member of the P-type ATPase family of ion pumps, a group of enzymes which pump ions against a concentration gradient, forming a phosphorylated intermediate during the pumping cycle. For each mole of ATP hydrolysed, 3 Na + ions are moved out of the cell and 2 K+ ions are moved into the cell. Unlike most other members of this family, which have one subunit, Na+, K+-ATPase is a heterodimer of α and β subunits. The a subunit consists of 1020 amino acids and has been predicted to have 10 membrane-spanning a-helices as well as a large cytoplasmic headpiece which forms the ATP binding and phosphorylation site. The α subunit, 300 amino acids in length, has one membrane spanning helix and has most of its mass located on the extracellular side of the membrane.
SU-E-T-679: Retrospective Analysis of the Sensitivity of Planar Dose Measurements To Gamma Analysis Criteria

Purpose: IMRT QA using planar dose measurements is still a widely used method for checking the accuracy of treatment plans. A pass/fail judgment is made using gamma analysis based on a single endpoint. Using more stringent criteria is a way to increase the sensitivity to planning and delivery errors. Before such implementation, it is necessary to understand how the sensitivity to different gamma criteria settings affects gamma passing rates (GPR). Methods: 752 IMRT QA measurements were re-analyzed with varying distance to agreement (DTA) and dose difference (DD) percentages using a Matlab program. Other quantifying information such as the mean dose difference in the treatment target (defined as points that are greater than 80% of maximal dose) were stored in a relational database for retrospective analysis. Results: The average and standard deviation of GPR (%) fell from 99.84 ± (0.43) to 89.61 ± (6.08) when restricting DD from 5 − 1% respectively, as compared to a drop from 99.15 ± (1.19) to 95.00 ± (4.43), when restricting the DTA from 5 − 1 mm respectively. The mean dose difference (%) in the treatment target between measured and calculated dose was −1.96 ± (0. 83), −0.09 ± (0.98), and 1.44 ± (0. 86) for each of our institution’s three matched linear accelerators (LINAC 1, 2, and 3 respectively). For plans that are approximately 2.7 sigma below the mean GPR, an average of 78.4% of those plans were measured on LINAC 1 or 3, while only 48% of the total plans were run on those machines. Conclusion: The data demonstrates that when restricting gamma criterion, such as the DD, the greatest indicator of reduced GPR in our institution is which matched LINAC the plan was measured on. While small, these differences manifest themselves to levels comparable to other treatment related differences and possibly confound the gamma analysis.
Spheroid formation affects the response of mouse ovarian cancer cells to natural and synthetic sphingoid bases.

3051 We have recently isolated mouse ovarian surface epithelium (MOSE) cells that spontaneously undergo transformation in vitro and characterized distinct transitional states. As the cells progress from a non-tumorigenic to a highly aggressive malignant phenotype, our ovarian cancer model undergoes distinct changes in proliferation, anchorage-independent growth, and tumor formation in vivo. Comparable to the formation of ascites in women, these cells also form spheroids when cell attachment is prohibited. In the present study, we investigated if the response of the MOSE cells to sphingolipids, lipid second messengers involved in the regulation of cell growth, differentiation and cell death, is altered by the spheroid formation. Our results show that sphingolipid treatment did not affect spheroid formation. However, although there was no difference in the uptake of natural and synthetic sphingoid bases between cells grown in monolayers or as spheroids, the toxicity of both sphingosine and the synthetic analog enigmol was drastically reduced in spheroids in a structure-, time- and concentration dependent manner, and signaling pathways leading to cell death were altered. These results suggest a limitation of the use of sphingolipids as anti-cancer agents against ascites in women. Supported by AICR grant 04B071 (to EMS), and NIH R01 CA118846 (to EMS and PCR)
Disparity Despite Diversity: Social Injustice in New York City's Urban Agriculture System

Many studies have documented the benefits of urban agriculture, including increased food access, job creation, educational opportunities, and green space. A focus on its social benefits has fed an association of urban agriculture with social justice, yet there is a distinction between alleviating symptoms of injustice (such as disparate access to food or environmental amenities) and disrupting structures that underlie them. Despite its positive impacts, urban agriculture systems may reinforce inequities that practitioners and supporters aim to address. This paper reports findings from a 2-year study of urban agriculture in New York City, which found race- and class-based disparities among practi- tioners citywide. Using the lens of critical race theory, it argues that a failure to examine urban agriculture's role in either supporting or dismantling unjust structures may perpetuate an inequitable system. The paper concludes with recommendations for urban agriculture supporters and scholars to help advance social justice at structural levels. Introduction the autumn harvest season began in 2010, a New York Magazine article highlighted some of the City's up-and-coming urban farmers, hailing them as the "new class of growers" (see Stein2010).Includedinthearticleanditsaccompanying photographs were the leaders of what the author deemed some of New York City's "most notable" urban farms and gardens. As any popular media source might, this article broadened awareness about urban agriculture among readers who were not involved with the movement through the type of storytelling that only personal narrative can provide. And, since urban agriculture has often been considered an oxymoron given the association of food production with rural environments, this was an opportunity to help bolster the legitimacy of the growing movement. However, despite, or perhaps because of the reach of this popular magazine, the article angered many in New York City's urban agriculture system (including some of the farmers that it featured) because six of the seven farmers profiled were white. Through the power of beautifully gritty photographs that professed to depict "What an Urban Farmer Looks Like", this article did more than raise awareness about growing tomatoes or keeping chickens in New York City. By failing to acknowledge the racial and ethnic diversity of New York's farmers and gardeners, it also suggested that urban agriculture in the city was a mostly white phenomenon, despite findings that the majority of gardeners in the city's nearly 1000 community
Does Lawfare Need an Apologia

Few concepts in international law are more controversial than lawfare. This essay contends that lawfare is best appreciated in the context of its original meaning as ideologically neutral description of how law might be used in armed conflict. It emphasizes that although law may be manipulated by some belligerents for nefarious purposes, it can still serve to limit human suffering in war. In discussing the current state of the concept of lawfare, the essay reviews several contentious areas, and recognizes the concerns of critics. The paper concludes that lawfare is still a useful term, and is optimized when it is employed consistent with its original purpose of communicating to non-specialists how law might be used as a positive good in modern war as a substitute for traditional arms.
Separability, Preferred Bases, and the Nonconservation of Quantities

A solution to the preferred basis problem of Everett's relative state formalism is presented. The solution does not rely on detailed properties of the observer, apart from the necessity of having at least one distinct state for each possible measurement result, and an initial state. It is argued that our concept that one entity is distinct from another arises from an approximation that the Hilbert space is factorisable in a manner compatible with the Hamiltonian. Conservation of angular momentum is shown to be inconsistent with the Copenhagen interpretation of quantum mechanics. In particular, it is not consistent to suppose that the measuring device absorbs angular momentum lost by the quantum system during measurement. It is shown that it is theoretically possible to observe violations of conservation of quantities whose associated operators commute with the Hamiltonian. This is explainable in the context of the ``many-worlds'' picture as the storage of some of the quantity in the relative signs of the superimposed worlds. A simple method of ``generating'' angular momentum is described. An example is given of a device which can turn a beam of spin-up particles into a beam of spin-down particles, without itself absorbing any angular momentum. This method cannot be used to generate energy.
Interface agents to alleviate online frustration

Mitigating system-based frustration is important within computer-based learning contexts. In two experimental studies, students answered online survey items and were confronted by a frustrating obstacle---an error message pop-up window that blocked them from answering the items. In the first study, "Survey Sam," an animated interface agent was present throughout the survey, and at the end delivered an affective message (apologetic or empathetic) or remained silent. Results revealed that the presence of either message led students to attribute the cause of their frustration to the program instead of to themselves. Further, participants receiving the empathetic message rated Survey Sam as significantly more believable and sincere. The second study investigated the impact of the visual presence of the agent by providing identical messages but with voice only. Results reinforced the value of the agent's visual preference as more effective than voice only, particularly for the empathetic message.
Approximation results for robust control of heat-diffusion equations

Mordukhovich (1990) and Mordukhovich and Zhang (1993) previously considered robust control problems for linear heat-diffusion equations with state constraints. Using multistep approximation procedures and taking into account special features of the problems, they obtained first-order characteristics and computed suboptimal parameters of three-positional boundary regulators. The main goal of our study is to find an appropriate feedback control law which ensures (minimax) optimality and robust stability properties of the closed-loop systems in the presence of uncertain perturbations. To the best of our knowledge, there are no results available in the general H/sub /spl infin//-control theory which could be directly applied to the distributed parameter systems considered under hard state-control constraints. High-order approximation results for the systems under consideration, which allow to obtain useful characteristics of suboptimal controls, are presented.
The 10 January 1986 Disconnection Event in Comet Halley

The disconnection event (DE) in the plasma tail of Comet Halley on January 9-12, 1986 is examined. The distances between the comet head and the disconnected tail are measured for a series of images for that time period and then extrapolated to the nucleus to determine the disconnection time: January 9.60 +/- 0.2 days. The approximate solar-wind conditions at the time of the DE were obtained by corotation of IMP-8 satellite data in earth orbit to Comet Halley. At the time of the DE, Comet Halley is inferred to have been close to a magnetic-sector boundary and a high-speed stream-compression region. However, a heliographic latitude separation of 22 degrees (between the comet and IMP-8) and gaps in the IMP-8 data render a more definitive statement about the linkage of the DE to external conditions quite difficult. It is not possible to resolve the effects of magnetic changes associated with the sector boundary and plasma pressure in the compression region.
Piezocision™-assisted orthodontics: Past, present, and future

The past decade has seen a surge in innovations pertaining to the field of orthodontics aimed at shortening the length of the treatment for the adult patient. Today we are presenting an innovative, minimally invasive surgical technique designed to help achieve such a goal and perhaps, more importantly, help solve orthodontic challenges through timely bone density modification. Piezocision™ is an orthodontically guided surgical procedure. It has evolved from being initially a minimally invasive surgical alternative to conventional corticotomies to a more sophisticated philosophy where the orthodontist is given the tools to control the anchorage value of teeth by selectively altering the bone density surrounding them, using the piezoelectric knife at key time intervals, in an effort to successfully solve orthodontic challenges. Piezocision™ gives the periodontist and the orthodontist another tool to expand their scope of practice.