cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Response of Bollworm and Predaceous Arthropod Populations to Aldicarb Treatments in Cotton

Populations of Heliothis zea (Boddie), and 10 predaceous arthropods were sampled in irrigated and dryland cotton fields following infurrow and sidedress applications of the systemic insecticide aldicarb. The numbers of bollworm larvae were much greater in aldicarb-treated, cotton than in untreated cotton. Several applications of insecticide were applied to suppress the bollworm population in irrigated cotton which had received a sidedness application of aldicarb. Little difference was noted in the average number of predaceous arthropods present in aldicarb-treated and untreated cotton before foliar applications of insecticide were required to suppress bollworms in some aldicarb-treated fields. However, samples taken during the single period of greatest bollworm activity indicated that the predaceous insects Geocoris sp., Nabis sp., Hippodomia sp. and Chrysapa sp., as well as spiders, were more abundant in untreated irrigated cotton than in aldicarb-treated irrigated cotton.
Incongruent Sputtering in Nio(100) and CoO(100) with 2 keV Argon Ions

Although NiO(100) sputters congruently at 300 K under 2 keV argon ion flux, sputter reduction is observed above a substrate threshold of 350 K. The reduction kinetics are described quantitatively by Fickian diffusion of subsurface oxygen coupled to differential sputtering at the sample surface. Two additional surface oxygen species are detected on sputter reduced NiO by XPS and these species have not been found on either stoichiometric or chemically reduced NiO(100). CoO(100) also shows sputter reduction, although only surfaces that have been pre-annealed to 973 K show significant reduction. Under these conditions, an epitaxial layer of Co 3 O 4 forms on the CoO substrate and this layer has a threshold temperature to sputter reduction of 550 K. Reduction kinetics for the epitaxy appear similar to those of NiO(100).
Alkaline phosphatase activity of human cell cultures.

SummaryStudies of alkaline phosphatase activity of sonicates of human cell cultures have revealed striking quantitative differences between established and recently isolated cell lines of diverse origin. Marked differences also have been noted between clonal strains derived from one or more consecutive single cell platings from several cell lines. The changes in phosphatase activity during serial passage following alteration of the nutrient medium may have resulted from a change in the relative distribution of cell types within the parental population.
Understanding Distributed Cognition in Moderated Chat Rooms: A Preliminary Analysis:

This study evaluates higher order perception, cognition, and individual-cultural differences under which moderated chat rooms may provide an effective alternative for students reviewing business information system course material in preparation for examination. Chat rooms comprise a form of groupware that can facilitate distributed cognition among higher education participants in the form of information-sharing. This study continues previous research (McNeese, et. al., 2002) that indicated problem solving and constructivist learning are socially constructed, situated in practice and context specific. The premise of this paper is that with proper design a cognitive task, such as students reviewing for exams, can be effectively supported even within the possible constraints of simple chat rooms. A potential benefit to students, based on previous research, is that groupware such as chat rooms can provide a constructivist learning environment and an equality of participation in group discussions (Benbasat and...
Taxing high-income earners: tax avoidance and mobility

The taxation of high-income earners is of importance to every country and is the subject of a considerable amount of recent academic research. Such high-income earners contribute substantial amounts of tax and generate significant positive spillovers, but are also highly mobile: a 1% increase in the top marginal income tax rate increases out-migrations by around 1.5 to 3%. We review research into taxation of high-income earners to provide a synthesis of existing theoretical and empirical understanding. We offer various avenues for potential future theoretical and empirical research.
Analysis of measles epidemic situation in 2010 in Xuchang City

To analyze the epidemiological characteristics of measles in Xuchang Henan in 2010,so as to provide evidences for reducing measles disease.Collected the data of meales disease in Xuchang in 2010 and analyzed the data by descriptive epidemiology method.There were 158 cases in Xuchang in 2010,the incidence rate was 3.74/100 000.The main epidemic strain was H1a sub-genotype.The morbidity mainly occured from March to May,most of the cases were children under 3 years,and 32.91% of the cases were children under 8 months.There have no history of of measles vaccination accounting for 68.08% among children from 8 to 18 months,and completion of whole course immunization rate was 30.65%.The isolation of H1a sub-genotype is important to control measles.The main reasons of high measles incidence were referred to the low coverage of routine immunization and lack of previous history of measles immunization and failure of primary/secondary immunization.We should improve the routine and timely vaccination,strengthen surveillance to control and eliminate measles.
Trai Tand Management of Floating Children in Vaccines and Immunization Works

The management of floating children is a difficult problem that exists widely in current vaccines and immmunization (programmed immune) works. Yancheng City has explored some experiences of floating children management gradually by these years’ practice,due to government’s coordination,departments participating,and the establishment of mechanism,to perfect the system and to strengthen the assessment,the result of floating children management is very significant,and the main indicators of vaccines and immmunization (programmed immune )are increasing more and more. We suggest that to set the relevant laws and regulations,and manage floating children legally,strengthening the cooperation and set the long-term management mechanism,speed up the innovation of techniques,and adopt the network to do management,to increase the efficiency of synthesize management.
Study on determination of probucol by HPLC assay and its pharmacokinetics in dogs

OBJECTIVE To establish a HPLC method for the determination of probucol in plasma and to investigate its pharmacokinetic characteristics in dogs.METHODS The drug and internal standard (amiodarone) were extracted from plasma with n-octane-isopropanol(8: 2), and then detected by UV detector at 241 nm with the C18 column and acetonitrile-water-10% n-butylamine(94:6:0.01) as the mobile phase at a flow rate of 1.0 mL·min-1. The data obtained were processed with 3P87 program on computer. RESULTS The linear range was 0.05-10.0μg·mL-1 ( r = 0.999 7) .The lowest detectable concentration was 0.01μg·2mL-1.The mean recoveries of the assay were 97.84% -103.3% . Both the intra-day and inter-day validations were less than 5% .CONCLUSION This method was simple,sensitive,accurate and reproducible. It can be used for the pharmacokinetic studies of probucol in dogs.
The Mountain: A Political History from the Enlightenment to the Present

Bernard Debarbieux and Gilles Rudaz. Chicago, IL: University of Chicago Press, 2015. xii and 354 pp., illustrations, notes, index. $50.00 cloth (ISBN 9780226031118); $40.00 electronic (ISBN 9780226...
Data and Types of Data

While it is tempting to proceed immediately to analysis and model-building, it is critically important to spend time to fully understand the dataset. Different types of data (nominal, ordinal, interval, and ratio) are suitable for only specific types of analysis. Data must then be converted into information (and later to knowledge and finally wisdom-DIKW) by providing understanding. This process includes examining the data, visualizing the data, and performing initial analysis.
Effects of Grounding on Body Voltage and Current in the Presence of Electromagnetic Fields

Abstract Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine if grounding in the presence of electromagnetic fields (EMFs) encountered in a normal housing environment produces harmful currents in the human body. Design: This study had a test–retest design, with duration of 5–15 min per participant. Participants: There were 50 participants, of whom 23 were males aged 12–77 years (Mage ± standard deviation = 50.5 ± 19.5 years) and 27 were females aged 13–79 years (Mage ± standard deviation = 45.9 ± 19.0 years). Intervention: Each participant was instructed to touch a lamp on a desk with his or her left hand, then to move the hand away from the lamp (first one foot away and then three feet) while his/her body voltage was measured. Each participant was then grounded and instructed to repeat the same hand movements. Current was also measured during the grounded retest. Outcome measures: The measured parameters were alternating current (AC) body voltage and current generated from contact or proximity to a lamp a...
Investigation of Desired Element Pattern Reconfigurability in Small Adaptive Arrays

Pattern reconfigurable antennas implemented in small adaptive arrays can serve as practical solutions in applications, which are limited by available platform space while providing additional degrees of pattern control. This communication integrates the concept of pattern variability directly into an adaptive array optimization routine with a unique pattern reconfigurable antenna element equivalent model, allowing the algorithm to fully leverage the available reconfigurability—which may include individual pattern beam tilts and pattern nulls. Examples showcase the model’s impact on adaptive array performance via the signal-to-interference plus noise ratio metric. The results establish a pathway specifying the design requirements for pattern reconfigurable antennas to improve small adaptive array performance, demonstrating that designers should focus on the null steering capability of the antenna element in many cases.
Abstract POSTER-BIOL-1324A: Loss of DYRK1A promotes transformation of the fallopian tube epithelial cells by oncogenic ras

Abstracts: 10th Biennial Ovarian Cancer Research Symposium; September 8-9, 2014; Seattle, WA Purpose of the study: High-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC) is an aggressive form of ovarian cancer that is characterized by nearly ubiquitous presence of somatic mutations in TP53 gene and widespread gene copy number variations. It is likely that some of these genetic alterations cooperate with TP53 mutations in the pathogenesis of HGSOC; however, the specific roles of individual genes that are frequently gained or lost in HGSOC are only beginning to emerge. We have previously characterised an important role of DYRK1A protein kinase in the ability of human cells to undergo G0/G1 cell cycle arrest and oncogenic-Ras induced senescence. DYRK1A is required for the assembly of the DREAM repressor complex that controls the genes involved in cell cycle progression; this function of DYRK1A could be promoted by LATS kinases of the Hippo tumor suppressor pathway. Analysis of the The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) ovarian dataset revealed loss of heterozygosity (LOH) of DYRK1A gene in over 25% HGSOC tumors. Therefore, we sought to determine whether loss of DYRK1A function can contribute to ovarian carcinogenesis. Experimental Procedures: A panel of human ovarian cancer cell lines was used to determine the levels of DYRK1A and its ability to suppress cell proliferation. The fallopian tube epithelial cell (FTEC) cell lines with stable shRNA knock-down of DYRK1A were used in transformation assays with ovarian cancer-relevant oncogenes. Bioinformatics analysis of the TGCA ovarian oncogenomic dataset was applied to determine whether DYRK1A loss in HGSOC could lead to perturbation of any specific gene expression programs. Summary of Data: It was found that depletion of DYRK1A promotes oncogenic transformation of the FTEC cells expressing mutant p53R175H and oncogenic HRASG12V. Rescue of DYRK1A expression in these cells resulted in arrest of proliferation and senescence. DYRK1A protein levels were reduced in a subset of ovarian cancer cell lines; overexpression of active but not the kinase-inactive DYRK1A suppressed the proliferation of these cells. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) of the TCGA HGSOC dataset revealed upregulated expression of the DREAM target genes in a subset of samples with LOH of both DYRK1A and LATS1 genes. Conclusion: Our findings support the role of DYRK1A as an ovarian tumor supressor and suggest that loss of DYRK1A function in HGSOC could lead to activation of transcription of the genes involved in cell proliferation. Citation Format: Larisa Litovchick, Siddharth Saini, Alison Karst, Lan Hu, Ronny Drapkin, James A. DeCaprio. Loss of DYRK1A promotes transformation of the fallopian tube epithelial cells by oncogenic ras [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 10th Biennial Ovarian Cancer Research Symposium; Sep 8-9, 2014; Seattle, WA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2015;21(16 Suppl):Abstract nr POSTER-BIOL-1324A.
CGG-repeat dynamics and FMR1 gene silencing in fragile X syndrome stem cells and stem cell-derived neurons

Fragile X syndrome (FXS), a common cause of intellectual disability and autism, results from the expansion of a CGG-repeat tract in the 5′ untranslated region of the FMR1 gene to >200 repeats. Such expanded alleles, known as full mutation (FM) alleles, are epigenetically silenced in differentiated cells thus resulting in the loss of FMRP, a protein important for learning and memory. The timing of repeat expansion and FMR1 gene silencing is controversial. We monitored the repeat size and methylation status of FMR1 alleles with expanded CGG repeats in patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and embryonic stem cells (ESCs) that were grown for extended period of time either as stem cells or differentiated into neurons. We used a PCR assay optimized for the amplification of large CGG repeats for sizing, and a quantitative methylation-specific PCR for the analysis of FMR1 promoter methylation. The FMR1 mRNA levels were analyzed by qRT-PCR. FMRP levels were determined by western blotting and immunofluorescence. Chromatin immunoprecipitation was used to study the association of repressive histone marks with the FMR1 gene in FXS ESCs. We show here that while FMR1 gene silencing can be seen in FXS embryonic stem cells (ESCs), some silenced alleles contract and when the repeat number drops below ~400, DNA methylation erodes, even when the repeat number remains >200. The resultant active alleles do not show the large step-wise expansions seen in stem cells from other repeat expansion diseases. Furthermore, there may be selection against large active alleles and these alleles do not expand further or become silenced on neuronal differentiation. Our data support the hypotheses that (i) large expansions occur prezygotically or in the very early embryo, (ii) large unmethylated alleles may be deleterious in stem cells, (iii) methylation can occur on alleles with >400 repeats very early in embryogenesis, and (iv) expansion and contraction may occur by different mechanisms. Our data also suggest that the threshold for stable methylation of FM alleles may be higher than previously thought. A higher threshold might explain why some carriers of FM alleles escape methylation. It may also provide a simple explanation for why silencing has not been observed in mouse models with >200 repeats.
In Vivo Cardiac Myosin Binding Protein C Gene Transfer Rescues Myofilament Contractile Dysfunction in Cardiac Myosin Binding Protein C Null Mice

Background— Decreased expression of cardiac myosin binding protein C (cMyBPC) in the heart has been implicated as a consequence of mutations in cMyBPC that lead to abnormal contractile function at the myofilament level, thereby contributing to the development of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in humans. It has not been established whether increasing the levels of cMyBPC in the intact heart can improve myofilament and in vivo contractile function and attenuate maladaptive remodeling processes because of reduced levels of cMyBPC. Methods and Results— We performed in vivo gene transfer of cMyBPC by direct injection into the myocardium of cMyBPC-deficient (cMyBPC−/−) mice, and mechanical experiments were conducted on skinned myocardium isolated from cMyBPC−/− hearts 21 days and 20 weeks after gene transfer. Cross-bridge kinetics in skinned myocardium isolated from cMyBPC−/− hearts after cMyBPC gene transfer were significantly slower compared with untreated cMyBPC−/− myocardium and were comparable to wild-type myocardium and cMyBPC−/− myocardium that was reconstituted with recombinant cMyBPC in vitro. cMyBPC content in cMyBPC−/− skinned myocardium after in vivo cMyBPC gene transfer or in vitro cMyBPC reconstitution was similar to wild-type levels. In vivo echocardiography studies of cMyBPC−/− hearts after cMyBPC gene transfer revealed improved systolic and diastolic contractile function and reductions in left ventricular wall thickness. Conclusions— This proof-of-concept study demonstrates that gene therapy designed to increase expression of cMyBPC in the cMyBPC-deficient myocardium can improve myofilament and in vivo contractile function, suggesting that cMyBPC gene therapy may be a viable approach for treatment of cardiomyopathies because of mutations in cMyBPC.
A Fast and Optimal Hand Isomorphism Algorithm

In a section of their 2007 paper, Gilpin, Sandholm, and Sorensen outline a technique for indexing poker hands that accounts for suit isomorphisms. Their implementation is specific to Texas Hold’em as it requires a large case analysis, and is not optimal as many cases are omitted. In this paper, we build on their ideas and provide a fast and optimal technique that generalizes beyond Texas Hold’em as well as provide an inverse mapping from an index to a canonical hand.
Effect of relative density on the dynamic compressive behavior of carbon nanotube reinforced aluminum foam

Abstract Closed-cell aluminum foams represent a unique class of solid cellular light metals that are made by deliberately introducing voids or pores during fabrication. This lightweight material is able to undergo large deformation at a nearly constant stress known as Plateau Stress because of which aluminum foams are good energy absorbers under dynamic loads such as an impact. In this investigation, carbon nanotubes (CNT) reinforced closed-cell aluminum foams were fabricated using the liquid metallurgy route through the dissociation of a foaming agent within the liquid metal. Four different relative densities of CNT reinforced Al-foam were used: 0.16, 0.20, 0.26 and 0.30, to study the effect of strain rate on the mechanical properties. The compressive mechanical behavior of CNT reinforced Al-foam has been studied under quasi-static and dynamic loading conditions. The high strain rate compressive response was investigated using a Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB) over a range of strain rates up to 2750 s−1. Mechanical properties such as peak stress, plateau stress and energy absorption increased with the increase in relative density; however, the densification strain decreased with the increase in relative density. Dynamic compressive properties improved as the strain rate increased indicating that this material is strain rate dependent. Among all the foams, the 0.30 relative density exhibited the highest mechanical properties whereas the 0.20 relative density foam displayed the highest strain rate sensitivity.
Approximation by Convolution

There are several theorems which are known to be equivalent to the Titchmarsh convolution theorem.
UCF Smart Mailbox: Reinforcing Communications in the Neighborhoods

Commonplace objects are being redesigned with digital functionality. Near invisible networks of radio frequency identification tags (RFID) are being deployed on almost every type of consumer product, and the “Ambient intelligence” promises to form a global network of physical objects as ubiquitous as the worldwide web itself. This diverse global network, “the internet of things” (IoT), provides digital connectivity on top of existing infrastructure and items. Nascent “smart object” developments like the presented “UCF Smart Mailbox,” not only reformulate our relationship with the objects themselves, but they can also support social relationships that contribute to the sustainability of the society.
Nucleotide Excision Repair, Bacterial: The UvrABCD System

The bacterial nucleotide excision repair system is mediated by six proteins: UvrA, UvrB, UvrC, UvrD, PolA, and DNA ligase. These repair proteins work in concert to identify and remove a large array of DNA lesions that vary in structure and chemistry. Their action mechanism is functionally similar to the same process in eukaryotic cells. Structural and biochemical data have revealed how these bacterial repair proteins scan through millions of base pairs of undamaged DNA to find and eliminate DNA lesions. This system also is aided by the stalling of RNA polymerase at sites of damage through a transcription coupling factor, Mfd.
A Method to Estimate Length Distributions from Outcrop Data

Dimensions of shales and other geologic bodies that affect fluid flow through reservoirs and aquifers are often estimated from analogous deposits exposed in outcrops. Shale lengths observed in outcrops are biased because the finite length of outcrops truncates longer shales and long shales tend to be overrepresented in the sample. Shale length distributions can be modeled using an Erlangian probability density function based on termination frequency. Termination frequency can be calculated from outcrop observations even if the shales are incompletely exposed. Termination frequency is unbiased regardless of underlying shale length distribution and outcrop size and shape. Complex length distributions can be represented by a weighted sum of Erlangian models, each with a distinct termination frequency. The proportions and termination frequencies of the component models can be estimated using Bayes' theorem. Subsamples of the outcrop area can be analyzed to quantify spatial trends in termination frequency and thus shale length. These methods can be applied to estimate length distributions of any geologic object exposed in outcrops or other spatially limited samples. In many cases estimated termination frequency is normally distributed, and its variance can be estimated using closed-form expressions. Shale length distributions for the Frewens Sandstone were modeled using one- and two-component Erlangian probability density functions. The Frewens Sandstone is a tide-influenced deltaic sandstone body within the Cretaceous-age Frontier Formation, exposed in central Wyoming, USA. Length observations and Erlangian models agree reasonably well. Because the models correct for the effects of shale truncation in limited outcrop exposures, predicted means and proportions of long shales are substantially greater than observed values. There is a vertical trend and pronounced vertical cyclicity in termination frequency, indicating that shales become shorter upward and intervals of longer and shorter shales alternate. Along strike, termination frequency decreases away from the sandstone-body axis, reflecting greater preserved shale lengths toward sandstone-body margins. No correlation was observed between distance along dip and termination frequency. Termination frequencies and histograms of shale length for adjacent, perpendicular walls are similar, indicating that there is no anisotropy in shale length.
Preliminary evaluation of a novel 18F-labeled PARP-1 ligand for PET imaging of PARP-1 expression in prostate cancer.

Abstract Introduction Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1) plays many roles in prostate cancer (PC), such as mediating DNA damage repair, transcriptional regulation and nuclear hormone receptor signaling. Because of this, PARP-1 has been targeted for therapy in PC, and non-invasive imaging of PARP-1 could help predict which patients are likely to respond to such therapy. Several PARP-1 positron emission tomography (PET) imaging agents have been developed and show promise for imaging PARP-1 expression in breast, brain, and lung cancer in small animals, but not as yet in prostate cancer. [18F]WC-DZ-F is an analogue of [18F]FluorThanatrace (FTT) and [125I]KX1, which are well-established PARP-1 ligands for measuring PARP-1 expression. Herein, we evaluated the potential of [18F]WC-DZ-F for the imaging PARP-1 expression in PC. Methods [18F]WC-DZ-F was synthesized by a two-step sequence. [18F]WC-DZ-F was evaluated by in vitro uptake studies in PC-3 cells and by in vivo biodistribution and microPET imaging using PC-3 tumor xenografts. Ex vivo autoradiography of PC-3 tumors after microPET imaging was also performed. Results [18F]WC-DZ-F has high, PARP-1-specific uptake in PC-3 cells. In the microPET imaging study, [18F]WC-DZ-F accumulated in PC-3 xenograft tumors over 2 h, and the uptake was significantly reduced by blocking with olaparib. PC-3 tumors were clearly visualized in microPET images, and the imaging results were further confirmed by autoradiography of PC-3 tumors ex vivo. In the biodistribution study [18F]WC-DZ-F washed out quickly from most tissues within 2 h, except for the liver in which the uptake was not blockable by olaparib. Conclusions We synthesized a novel PARP-1 radioligand, [18F]WC-DZ-F. The preliminary evaluation of [18F]WC-DZ-F indicates that it is a suitable PET imaging agent for measuring PARP-1 expression in prostate cancer and should be applicable to other types of cancers.
Oligomer-Specific, Short Chain Linear Alcohol Ethoxylate Quantification via Comprehensive Two-Dimensional Gas Chromatography

Non-ionic linear alcohol ethoxylated surfactants (LAEs) make up a broadly utilized class of compounds commonly employed in unconventional hydraulic fracturing activities. However, current detection and quantification methods fail to operate in relevant concentration ranges and are limited in specificity because of a lack of access to all analytical standards for individual LAE oligomers. Here, we present a novel extraction and quantification technique for aqueous samples containing both petroleum hydrocarbons and short chain LAEs with alkyl chain lengths of 6–10 carbons and 0–9 ethylene oxide groups. Using liquid–liquid extraction and two-dimensional gas chromatography with flame ionization detection, the method provided over 80 and 100% recovery of LAEs and n-alkane hydrocarbons, respectively. Individual LAE oligomers were quantified using calibration curves of n-alkanes and adjusted response factors based on the effective carbon number (ECN) concept, and we present a detailed framework for calculating E...
Learning Pipelines with Limited Data and Domain Knowledge: A Study in Parsing Physics Problems

As machine learning becomes more widely used in practice, we need new methods to build complex intelligent systems that integrate learning with existing software, and with domain knowledge encoded as rules. As a case study, we present such a system that learns to parse Newtonian physics problems in textbooks. This system, Nuts&Bolts, learns a pipeline process that incorporates existing code, pre-learned machine learning models, and human engineered rules. It jointly trains the entire pipeline to prevent propagation of errors, using a combination of labelled and unlabelled data. Our approach achieves a good performance on the parsing task, outperforming the simple pipeline and its variants. Finally, we also show how Nuts&Bolts can be used to achieve improvements on a relation extraction task and on the end task of answering Newtonian physics problems.
Microbial removal and plant uptake of nitrogen in constructed wetlands: mesocosm tests on influencing factors.

Macrophytes and bacteria are key drivers of nitrogen removal in constructed wetlands. Through mesocosm experiments with vegetated submerged beds and free water surface wetlands in various operational modes, wetland configurations, and system layouts, this study developed empirical models for non-destructive estimation of plant biomass growth and associated nitrogen assimilation and explored the combined effects of multiple factors that influence microbial nitrogen removal. The above-ground biomass of individual plants was a power function of plant height for both Cyperus alternifolius and Typha angustifolia. Below- to above-ground biomass ratio was 0.38 for C. alternifolius and 2.73 for T. angustifolia. Because of greater tolerance to ammonia stress, C. alternifolius and C. papyrus grew faster than T. angustifolia. There were no significant effects of wetland type, vegetation, and plant species on microbial nitrogen removal. Microbial nitrogen removal was inhibited by free ammonia at 13.3–16.2 mg N/L. Denitrification and anammox were suppressed at dissolved oxygen greater than 1.9 mg/L. Microbial removal of ammonia in vegetated submerged beds was sensitive mainly to dissolved oxygen, pH, and influent ammonia concentration, while in free water surface wetlands, it was sensitive to influent ammonia concentration, pH, and temperature.
Connections, Virtues, and Meaning-Making: How Early Childhood Educators Describe Children’s Spirituality

Even though interest in children’s spirituality has increased in the past decade, there still remains a lack of consensus among scholars as to how it is defined. Likewise, little is known about how educators understand children’s spirituality. This study examines how 33 early childhood educators, working in secular educational settings, understand children’s spirituality. Multiple definitions of children’s spirituality from existing literature are explored and contrasted with the study findings to explore how wider consensus about this phenomenon can be achieved. Findings show that most early childhood educators surveyed have a multilayered understanding of children’s spirituality and most commonly believe children’s spirituality includes building connections, practicing virtues, and making meaning. To lessor degrees, educators also mentioned God and religion, self-awareness, mindfulness and presence, humanness and inner feelings. When describing children’s spirituality, surveyed educators placed more emphasis on inter-personal character traits related to the heart, as defined in the Circumplex Model of the VIA Classification. The study has important implications for scholars and practitioners who seek to examine or promote young children’s spirituality, and by extension, support the important processes of relationship building, virtue development and the ways in which we understand how children construct meaning about their lived experience, their own selves and the world around them.
Large-scale Ising emulation with four body interaction and all-to-all connections

Optical Ising machines with two-body interactions have shown potential in solving combinatorial optimization problems which are extremely hard to solve with digital computers. Yet, some physical systems cannot be properly described by only two-body interactions. Here, we propose and demonstrate a nonlinear optics approach to emulate Ising machines containing many spins (up to a million in the absence of optical imperfections) and with tailored all-to-all two and four-body interactions. Our approach employs a spatial light modulator to encode and control the spins in the form of the binary-phase values, and emulates the high-order interaction with frequency conversion in a nonlinear crystal. By implementing adaptive feedback, the system can be evolved into effective spin configurations that well-approximate the ground-states of Ising Hamiltonians with all-to-all connected many-body interactions. Our technique could serve as a tool to probe complex, many-body physics and give rise to exciting applications in big-data optimization, computing, and analytics. Optical Ising machines provide a means to process and optimise large data sets but cannot fully capture many-body interactions yet. This work experimentally demonstrates adjustable two- and four-body interactions and all-to-all connections for up to a million emulated spins.
The Effect of Clinically Controllable Factors on Neural Activation During Dorsal Root Ganglion Stimulation

Objective Dorsal root ganglion stimulation (DRGS) is an effective therapy for chronic pain, though its mechanisms of action are unknown. Currently, we do not understand how clinically controllable parameters (e.g., electrode position, stimulus pulse width) affect the direct neural response to DRGS. Therefore, the goal of this study was to utilize a computational modeling approach to characterize how varying clinically controllable parameters changed neural activation profiles during DRGS. Materials and methods We coupled a finite element model of a human L5 DRG to multicompartment models of primary sensory neurons (i.e., Aα-, Aβ-, Aδ-, and C-neurons). We calculated the stimulation amplitudes necessary to elicit one or more action potentials in each neuron, and examined how neural activation profiles were affected by varying clinically controllable parameters. Results In general, DRGS predominantly activated large myelinated Aα- and Aβ-neurons. Shifting the electrode more than 2 mm away from the ganglion abolished most DRGS-induced neural activation. Increasing the stimulus pulse width to 500 μs or greater increased the number of activated Aδ-neurons, while shorter pulse widths typically only activated Aα- and Aβ-neurons. Placing a cathode near a nerve root, or an anode near the ganglion body, maximized Aβ-mechanoreceptor activation. Guarded active contact configurations did not activate more Aβ-mechanoreceptors than conventional bipolar configurations. Conclusions Our results suggest that DRGS applied with stimulation parameters within typical clinical ranges predominantly activates Aβ-mechanoreceptors. In general, varying clinically controllable parameters affects the number of Aβ-mechanoreceptors activated, although longer pulse widths can increase Aδ-neuron activation. Our data support several Neuromodulation Appropriateness Consensus Committee guidelines on the clinical implementation of DRGS.
Specific Mutations in APC, but Not Alterations in DNA Damage Response, Associate With Outcomes of Patients With Metastatic Colorectal Cancer

In an integrated genomic and clinical analysis, we evaluate the effects of Wnt and DNA damage response pathway alterations on metastatic colorectal cancer.
Energy Harvesting Long-Range Marine Communication

This paper proposes a self-sustaining broadband long-range maritime communication as an alternative to the expensive and slow satellite communications in offshore areas. The proposed system, named Marinet, consists of many buoys. Each of the buoys has two units: an energy harvesting unit and a wireless communication unit. The energy harvesting unit generates electrical energy from ocean waves to support the operation of the wireless communication unit. The wireless communication unit on each buoy operates in a TV white space frequency band and connects to each other and wired high-speed gateways on land or islands to form a mesh network. The resulting mesh network provides wireless access services to marine users in their range. A prototype of the energy harvesting unit and the wireless communication unit are built and tested in the field. In addition, to ensure Marinet will maintain stable communications in rough sea states, an ocean-link-state prediction algorithm is designed. The algorithm predicts ocean link-states based on ocean wave movements. A realistic ocean simulator is designed and used to evaluate how such a link-state prediction algorithm can improve routing algorithm performance.
FSM for Robot Target Search and Retrieval under Semi-constructed Environment

As robots nowadays possess more comprehensive functionalities, the application scenarios involving multi-tasking become increasingly common. This paper presents a Finite State Machine (FSM) based mobile robot target searching mechanism under semi-unknown environment that contains several stages: random exploring, object gripping and object retrieving. During this process, color and shape based image processing strategies are used for object detecting and gripping, Vector Field Histogram (VFH) algorithm is used for navigation. Experiments were done using a Jackal UGV mounted with Kinect RGB-D camera and Hokuyo LiDAR. Tests under a semi-constructed field are performed, demonstrating successful object retrieval. Results are presented and analyzed.
Recommended Test Vehicle Update for Manual for Assessing Safety Hardware

Passenger vehicles in Manual for Assessing Safety Hardware (MASH) crash testing are required to be representative of the modern vehicle fleet and practical worst-case impact scenarios. The objectiv...
FOUR DECADES OF IRC +10216: EVOLUTION OF A CARBON-RICH DUST SHELL RESOLVED AT 10 μm WITH MMT ADAPTIVE OPTICS AND MIRAC4* , ** , ** *

The evolved carbon-rich asymptotic giant branch star IRC +10216 (CW Leo) is the brightest mid-infrared source outside the solar system, as well as one of the closest examples of an evolved star losing mass. It has a complex and variable circumstellar structure on small scales in the near-infrared, and mid-infrared interferometry has revealed a dynamic dust formation zone. We have obtained diffraction-limited imaging and grism spectroscopy of IRC +10216 at the 6.5 m MMT in the N band (~8-13 μm). These new observations show that a change has occurred in the dust shell surrounding IRC +10216 over the last two decades, which is illustrated by a change in the apparent shape of the well-known SiC spectral feature at ~11 μm and a reduction in the continuum at 13 μm. As expected, our diffraction-limited spatial information shows an extended circumstellar envelope. We also demonstrate that the dusty envelope appears to be ~30% larger at the wavelengths of the SiC feature, likely due to the increased opacity of SiC. The deconvolved full width at half-maximum of the object increases from 043 (~ 56 AU) for λ < 10 μm to 058 (~75 AU) at 11.8 μm, then decreases to 05 (~65 AU) at 12.7 μm. Our estimates of IRC +10216's size allow us to plausibly tie the change in the spectrum over the last 12.5 years to the evolution of the dusty circumstellar envelope at speeds of 12-17 km s–1.
Minority membership on boards of directors: the case for requiring pictures of boards in annual reports

Abstract Affirmative action and diversity continue to be contentious issues in the United States. Financial markets are still reeling from the effects of Enron, WorldCom and other corporate exemplars of corruption and malfeasance. The role of the board of directors in these scandals is the subject of serious and ongoing concern. Weak and/or ineffectual boards are often the consequences of “old-boy networks” and a lack of diversity in membership. This research study argues for an increased presence of gender and race diversity on boards of directors. Empirical evidence is presented that shows a significant increase in the presence of ethnic minorities and females when pictures of board members are included in annual reports. We suggest that requiring pictures of board members in annual reports and regulatory filings would result in a larger presence for gender and race diversity on boards of directors. This requirement is not a significant burden and merely represents compliance with the spirit and intent of the “full disclosure” principle.
Using Decision Analysis to Integrate Habitat and Community Values for Coastal Resilience Planning

Decision analysis is applied to habitat and community resilience planning in Maryland, USA. Sea level rise is causing wetland loss and increased flooding in coastal areas. A team at The Nature Conservancy analyzed a decision to identify high-value conservation planning units across Maryland’s Lower Eastern Shore. The team selected two fundamental objectives: minimize habitat loss and minimize community flood impacts. Sub-objectives included habitat function, habitat migration potential, critical infrastructure, and social vulnerability. Spatial attributes were selected based on ecological knowledge about habitat and socio-economic knowledge about sustaining populations in flood-prone areas. Seven planning units were developed across the Lower Eastern Shore. Single-attribute value functions determined the overall value of each unit per attribute, whereas multi-attribute value functions determined the overall value of each unit for all fundamental objectives. Sensitivity analysis incorporated data adjustments based on different flood scenarios and unit sizes, and variation in attribute weights associated with the multi-attribute value function. The Pareto efficiency principle revealed tradeoffs between units for habitat protection and management and community engagement and adaptation. Results indicate that four units are Pareto efficient under different sensitivity iterations and they trade off value in the fundamental objectives, whereas one unit provides the highest combined habitat and community value. This research guided thinking about equity in decision making and targeting conservation actions at local scales. The approach and methods can be used to inform conservation decisions in other similar contexts.
Incidence and Outcomes of Pericardial Effusion and Cardiac Tamponade Following Permanent Pacemaker Implantation After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation

Permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation is required in 5% to 10% of patients following transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). However, there are limited data on the impact of PPM implantation on the incidence of pericardial effusion, cardiac tamponade, and outcomes after TAVI. We identified all hospitalizations in patients ≥18 years of age who underwent TAVI in the years 2016 to 2017 in the Nationwide Readmission Database. The endpoints of the study were pericardial effusion, cardiac tamponade, and percutaneous or surgical drainage of the pericardial cavity in patients that required PPM implantation after TAVI. Multivariable logistic regression determined associations of PPM implantation, pericardial effusion, and tamponade with patient outcomes. A total of 54,317 unweighted hospitalizations for TAVI were identified, of which 5,639 (10.4%) required PPM. The risk of pericardial effusion was significantly greater in patients who required PPM (2.4% vs 1.6%, adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.39 (1.15 to 1.70), p <0.001)), and risk of cardiac tamponade nearly doubled (1.6% vs 0.8%, p <0.001; aOR: 1.90 (1.48 to 2.40), p <0.001). Female gender was independently associated with increased risk of pericardial effusion and cardiac tamponade whereas history of previous CABG was associated with decreased risk of both. Pericardial complications following PPM implantation were associated with increased in-hospital mortality, length of stay (LOS), hospital costs, and risk of 30-day readmission following TAVI (p <0.01 for all comparisons). In conclusion, although common, PPM implantation post-TAVI carries increased risks of pericardial effusion and associated cardiac tamponade. Patients developing these pericardial complications are at particularly high-risk for in-hospital mortality, greater LOS, and 30-day readmission.
SCALE 6.2.4 Validation for Light Water Reactor Decay Heat Analysis

Energy release from the decay of radionuclides in nuclear fuel after its discharge from reactor is a critical parameter for design, safety, and licensing analyses of used nuclear fuel storage, tran...
Diffuse retinopathy following measles, mumps, and rubella vaccination.

Blindness due to optic neuritis or panretinopathy has been reported as an acute complication of natural measles infection.5 Recently, loss of visual acuity following measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination with the fundoscopic changes of optic neuritis has been described.6 We have observed a child with blindness due to diffuse neuroretinitis temporally associated with measles, mumps, and rubella vaccination and the development of a postvaccination measles syndrome. CASE REPORT A 16-month-old baby girl presented with acute loss of vision 16 days after routine measles, mumps, and rubella vaccination. The infant had been previously healthy and developmentally normal. She had received three previous oral polio and diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis vaccinations without adverse reactions.
A ‘whole system’ approach to the choice of electoral rules in democratizing countries:: Senegal in comparative perspective

Abstract Authoritarian incumbents in democratizing countries choose electoral rules to retain power while accommodating opposition demands for increased participation and representation. We clarify the political logic of this institutional choice and its consequences in Senegal by employing a ‘whole system’ approach that emphasizes the intricate but often hidden relationships between elections and the rules governing them at multiple levels — presidential, legislative and local. Success at one level depends on performance at all levels. In the short run, multiple-level electoral reforms preserve the ruling party in power while expanding opportunities for, but also fragmenting, the opposition. In the long run, they encourage splits within the ruling party and help the opposition develop increased ability to coalesce around a single opposition candidate, resulting in the defeat of the authoritarian incumbent and a democratic transfer of power through competitive elections.
Low-Technology Strategies

Since the enactment of Education for All Handicapped Children Act of 1975, the field of education has continued to evolve into its present entity. As academic achievement is often viewed as a key c...
The Role of a Bill of Rights

One of the happiest facts about the two hundredth anniversary of the Bill of Rights is that it occurs when, for many people in the world, the question whether to adopt a bill of rights is alive for the first time. What will they be adopting, if they adopt a bill of rights? In this Afterword I want to suggest an answer to that question, based on the American experience with the Bill of Rights generally and, in particular, with controversies of the kind reflected in the articles in this issue. My suggestion is that there are three different conceptions of the Bill of Rights. Each conception sees the Bill of Rights as serving a different purpose. Each rests on certain normative and institutional premises. Each gives rise to a characteristic form of argument. None of these three conceptions, I will argue, is obviously wrong. Many controversies that appear to concern the proper interpretation of a provision of the Bill of Rights, including many of the debates in this issue, are in fact contests between or among these different conceptions of the Bill of Rights. Disputes of this kind cannot be resolved until one conception of the Bill of Rights can be justified over another. Many confusions, illegitimate arguments, and unwarranted displays of defensiveness derive from the failure to realize that what is at stake in controversies about the Bill of Rights is often differing conceptions of the Bill of Rights. In Sections I, II, and III of this essay, I describe the three conceptions. The first conception views the Bill of Rights as a code: a
A New Crime for Corporate Misconduct

Federal prosecutors have explained the absence of any signature prosecutions of financial executives in the wake of the financial crisis to the high level of intent required by criminal laws typically used to prosecute economic crimes. If the barrier to holding individual executives is the lack of evidence of specific intent, the one possibility is to adopt a new crime based on recklessness for executive decisions that result in significant harm. In this essay, I look at how statutes in Germany and the United Kingdom shed light on how a provision can be crafted to hold senior managers responsible for reckless corporate decisions. But the question remains whether such a new law is needed in the wake of the financial crisis, and whether it would deter the type of risk taking expected in a business enterprise seeking a high return on capital.