cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Detection of a Gamma-Ray Source in the Galactic Center Consistent with Extended Emission from Dark Matter Annihilation and Concentrated Astrophysical Emission

We show the existence of a statistically significant, robust detection of a gamma-ray source in the Milky Way Galactic Center that is consistent with a spatially extended signal using about 4 years of Fermi-LAT data. The gamma-ray flux is consistent with annihilation of dark matter particles with a thermal annihilation cross-section if the spatial distribution of dark matter particles is similar to the predictions of dark matter only simulations. We find statistically significant detections of an extended source with gamma-ray spectrum that is consistent with dark matter particle masses of approximately 10 GeV to 1 TeV annihilating to b/b-bar quarks, and masses approximately 10 GeV to 30 GeV annihilating to tau+ tau- leptons. However, a part of the allowed region in this interpretation is in conflict with constraints from Fermi observations of the Milky Way satellites. The biggest improvement over the fit including just the point sources is obtained for a 30 GeV dark matter particle annihilating to b/b-bar quarks. The gamma-ray intensity and spectrum are also well fit with emission from a millisecond pulsar (MSP) population following a density profile like that of low-mass X-ray binaries observed in M31. The greatest goodness-of-fit of the extended emission is with spectra consistent with known astrophysical sources like MSPs in globular clusters or cosmic ray bremsstrahlung on molecular gas. Therefore, we conclude that the bulk of the emission is likely from an unresolved or spatially extended astrophysical source. However, the interesting possibility of all or part of the extended emission being from dark matter annihilation cannot be excluded at present.
Predicting conditional branches with fusion-based hybrid predictors

Researchers have studied hybrid branch predictors that leverage the strengths of multiple standalone predictors. The common theme among the proposed techniques is a selection mechanism that chooses a prediction from among several component predictors. We make the observation that singling out one particular component predictor ignores the information of the nonselected components. We propose branch prediction fusion, originally inspired by work in the machine learning field, which combines or fuses the information from all of the components to arrive at a final prediction. Our 32 KB predictor achieves the same overall prediction accuracy as the 188 KB versions of the previous best performing predictors (the Multi-Hybrid and the global-local perceptron).
Binary image encoding using 1D chaotic maps

Information security has become a major issue during the last decades where new algorithms based on algebraic methods or chaotic dynamics were suggested for encryption. This paper presents an algorithm for encoding binary images using one-dimensional chaotic maps. In order to perform pixel value permutation, the approach presented uses the diffusion property of chaotic maps, where local information is spread out. Comparison in terms of the correlation between the initial image and the transformed images is provided for different degrees of chaocity which corresponds to different values of positive Lyapunov exponent. Since images present a special kind of data where the size may be much larger than text data, an algorithm is suggested that emphasizes fast calculation in order to be implemented in real time for binary images encryption.
Analytic Charge Model for Surrounding-Gate MOSFETs

This paper presents an analytic charge model for surrounding-gate MOSFETs. Without the charge sheet approximation, the model is based on closed-form solution of Poisson's equation, current continuity equation, and Ward-Dutton linear charge partition. It continuously covers all the operation regions, i.e., linear, saturation, and subthreshold, with unique analytic expressions. The physics-based nature makes this model free of fitting parameters and hence predictive. In addition, it is inherently not source-referenced to avoid asymmetries. It is shown that the current-voltage characteristics generated by this model agree with the numerical simulation results
Wavelet transform based optimal receivers

A generalized orthogonal series expansion should reflect the natural modes of a signal. In doing so, the transform becomes precise and useful. The most precise transform is the Karhunen-Loeve (KL) transform. In this paper wavelets are are analyzed for their appropriateness as KL transforms. It is shown that optimum filters for detection of signals in noise can be designed adaptively using an arbitrary wavelet basis. >
Targeted Knockdown of Hepatic SOAT2 With Antisense Oligonucleotides Stabilizes Atherosclerotic Plaque in ApoB100-only LDLr−/− Mice

Objective— To test the hypothesis that the attenuation of cholesterol oleate packaging into apoB-containing lipoproteins will arrest progression of pre-existing atherosclerotic lesions. Approach and Results— Atherosclerosis was induced in apoB-100 only, LDLr–/– mice by feeding a diet enriched in cis -monounsaturated fatty acids for 24 weeks. A subset of mice was then euthanized to quantify the extent of atherosclerosis. The remaining mice were continued on the same diet (controls) or assigned to the following treatments for 16 weeks: (1) a diet enriched in n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, (2) the cis -monounsaturated fatty acid diet plus biweekly injections of an antisense oligonucleotide specific to hepatic sterol-O-acyltransferase 2 (SOAT2); or (3) the cis -monounsaturated fatty acid diet and biweekly injections of a nontargeting hepatic antisense oligonucleotide. Extent of atherosclerotic lesions in the aorta was monitored morphometrically in vivo with magnetic resonance imaging and ex vivo histologically and immunochemically. Hepatic knockdown of SOAT2 via antisense oligonucleotide treatment arrested lesion growth and stabilized lesions. Conclusions— Hepatic knockdown of SOAT2 in apoB100-only, LDLr–/– mice resulted in remodeling of aortic atherosclerotic lesions into a stable phenotype, suggesting SOAT2 is a viable target for the treatment of atherosclerosis. # Significance {#article-title-36}
The Effect of Wave Breaking on Surf-Zone Turbulence and Alongshore Currents: A Modeling Study

The effect of breaking-wave-generated turbulence on the mean circulation, turbulence, and bottom stress in the surf zone is poorly understood. A one-dimensional vertical coupled turbulence (k–) and mean-flow model is developed that incorporates the effect of wave breaking with a time-dependent surface turbulence flux and uses existing (published) model closures. No model parameters are tuned to optimize model–data agreement. The model qualitatively reproduces the mean dissipation and production during the most energetic breaking-wave conditions in 4.5-m water depth off of a sandy beach and slightly underpredicts the mean alongshore current. By modeling a cross-shore transect case example from the Duck94 field experiment, the observed surf-zone dissipation depth scaling and the observed mean alongshore current (although slightly underpredicted) are generally reproduced. Wave breaking significantly reduces the modeled vertical shear, suggesting that surf-zone bottom stress cannot be estimated by fitting a logarithmic current profile to alongshore current observations. Model-inferred drag coefficients follow parameterizations (Manning– Strickler) that depend on the bed roughness and inversely on the water depth, although the inverse depth dependence is likely a proxy for some other effect such as wave breaking. Variations in the bed roughness and the percentage of breaking-wave energy entering the water column have a comparable effect on the mean alongshore current and drag coefficient. However, covarying the wave height, forcing, and dissipation and bed roughness separately results in an alongshore current (drag coefficient) only weakly (strongly) dependent on the bed roughness because of the competing effects of increased turbulence, wave forcing, and orbital wave velocities.
Managing fear in public health campaigns: A theory-based formative evaluation process.

The HIV/AIDS infection rate of Ethiopia is one of the world's highest. Prevention campaigns should systematically incorporate and respond to at-risk population's existing beliefs, emotions, and perceived barriers in the message design process to effectively promote behavior change. However, guidelines for conducting formative evaluation that are grounded in proven risk communication theory and empirical data analysis techniques are hard to find. This article provides a five-step formative evaluation process that translates theory and research for developing effective messages for behavior change. Guided by the extended parallel process model, the five-step process helps message designers manage public's fear surrounding issues such as HIV/AIDS. An entertainment education project that used the process to design HIV/AIDS prevention messages for Ethiopian urban youth is reported. Data were collected in five urban regions of Ethiopia and analyzed according to the process to develop key messages for a 26-week radio soap opera.
Taenioides kentalleni , a new species of eel goby from Saudi Arabia (Gobiidae: Amblyopinae)

A new species of eel goby, Taenioides kentalleni, is described on the basis of a single specimen from Ras Az Zawr, Jubail, Saudi Arabia. It differs from other species of Taenioides by the following combination of characters: 35 caudal vertebrae; 72 dorsal-fin elements, 65 anal-fin elements, median fins edged in black and the caudal fin almost entirely black. This species is figured and compared with other nominal species of Taenioides.
The Structure of Supercritical Diffusion Flames with Arrhenius Mass Diffusivities

Abstract The combustion of fuel and oxidizer dissolved in a high-density fluid such as supercritical water is often characterized by highly temperature-sensitive mass diffusivities. Such behaviour, which is Arrhenius in nature, reflects the transition from a liquid- to gas-like character of the fluid as the temperature varies from ambient conditions to elevated values characteristic of flames. For the case of supercritical diffusion flames in counterflow, this property results in a flame structure comprised of three identifiable regions. In particular, there is an outer preheat zone on both the fuel and oxidizer side of the flame in which species transport is by convection alone; a relatively thin diffusion zone in the vicinity of the stagnation plane in which a convective-diffusive balance is maintained for both species and temperature; and finally, a very thin reaction zone embedded in the thicker diffusion zone in which a reactive-diffusive balance is achieved. An analysis of all possible burning regim...
An application of artificial neural networks in ovarian cancer early detection

The ANN classifier reported in the paper for discriminating malignant from benign pelvic masses was constructed based on the multilayer perceptron structure, the most commonly used ANN in medicine. To compensate for the small training sample size and noisy data as often occurrs in medical applications, special sample selection criteria are applied to improve data quality. Preprocessing steps based on biological knowledge and data mining techniques are also taken to reduce the complexity of ANN training. The original data set was divided into two sets, one for ANN training set and the other for independent validation. Two additional independent data sets were also used for the evaluation of the system.
Wind and Energy Markets: A Case Study of Texas

Many jurisdictions worldwide are greatly increasing the amount of wind production, with the expectation that increasing renewables will cost-effectively reduce greenhouse emissions. This paper discusses the interaction of increasing wind, transmission constraints, renewable credits, wind and demand correlation, intermittency, carbon prices, and electricity market prices using the particular example of the Electric Reliability Council of Texas market. An estimate is made of the cost of using wind to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.
Monoamine control of the pacemaker kernel and cycle frequency in the lobster pyloric network.

The monoamines dopamine (DA), serotonin (5HT), and octopamine (Oct) can each sculpt a unique motor pattern from the pyloric network in the stomatogastric ganglion (STG) of the spiny lobster Panulirus interruptus. In this paper we investigate the contribution of individual network components in determining the specific amine-induced cycle frequency. We used photoinactivation of identified neurons and pharmacological blockade of synapses to isolate the anterior burster (AB) and pyloric dilator (PD) neurons. Bath application of DA, 5HT, or Oct enhanced cycle frequency in an isolated AB neuron, with DA generating the most rapid oscillations and Oct the slowest. When an AB–PD or AB–2xPD subnetworks were tested, DA often reduced the ongoing cycle frequency, whereas 5HT and Oct both evoked similar accelerations in cycle frequency. However, in the intact pyloric network, both DA and Oct either reduced or did not alter the cycle frequency, whereas 5HT continued to enhance the cycle frequency as before. Our results show that the major target of 5HT in altering the pyloric cycle frequency is the AB neuron, whereas DA’s effects on the AB–2xPD subnetwork are critical in understanding its modulation of the cycle frequency. Octopamine’s effects on cycle frequency require an understanding of its modulation of the feedback inhibition to the AB–PD group from the lateral pyloric neuron, which constrains the pacemaker group to oscillate more slowly than it would alone. We have thus demonstrated that the relative importance of the different network components in determining the final cycle frequency is not fixed but can vary under different modulatory conditions.
Developing Playability Heuristics for Computer Games from Online Reviews

This paper demonstrates a revised lexical approach for developing game playability heuristics by examining a large number of online game reviews. Game usability, which is better labeled as playability, has been receiving attention from researchers in the areas of HCI and Game Studies. Despite some early research efforts on this topic, most studies are generally qualitative in nature and don’t cover a wide range of games. Inspired by the lexical approach used in personality psychology, we employed a revised method to investigate playability by analyzing players’ languages. In our previous research, 6 factors were extracted about essential characteristic of game play experience [39]. This study aims to develop playability heuristics rules based on adjectives converging on factor perceived as playability, the top factor among the six.
On the Equilibrium-State Roll Vortices and Their Effects in the Hurricane Boundary Layer

AbstractIn this study, the authors numerically simulate roll vortices (rolls) generated by the inflection-point instability in the hurricane boundary layer (HBL). The approach is based on embedding a two-dimensional high-resolution single-grid roll-resolving model (SRM) at selected horizontal grid points of an axisymmetric HBL model. The results from a set of idealized experiments indicate that the mixed-layer height is an important factor affecting the magnitude of the roll velocities and the structure of the internal waves triggered in the stably stratified layer above. This study reveals the important difference between the roll-induced cross-roll (nearly radial) and along-roll (nearly azimuthal) momentum fluxes: while the cross-roll momentum flux is well correlated to the cross-roll mean wind shear, the along-roll momentum flux is typically not correlated with the along-roll mean wind shear. Therefore, the commonly used K theory in the boundary layer parameterizations cannot reasonably capture the ver...
Reasonable Hope in Kant’s Ethics

The most apparent obstacles to a just, enlightened and peaceful social world are also, according to Kant, nature’s way of compelling us to realize those and other morally good ends. Echoing Adam Smith’s idea of the ‘invisible hand’, Kant thinks that selfishness, rivalry, quarrelsomeness, vanity, jealousy and self-conceit, along with the oppressive social inequalities they tend to produce, drive us to perfect our talents, develop culture, approach enlightenment and, through the strife and instability caused by our unsocial sociability, push us towards justice, political equality and the highest good. What are we to make of these arguments, which seem to rely on questionable empirical assumptions, invoke dubious claims about natural teleology and sit uncomfortably with fundamental aspects of Kant’s ethical framework? I suggest that the arguments reveal one of Kant’s deep and important insights about the moral life by partially describing what a good and virtuous person reasonably hopes for.
The structure of unstained reticulocytes.

Brilliant cresyl blue and certain other basic dyes, if applied to fluid blood, bring out a reticulum in young red blood cells. This reticulum fails to appear if brilliant cresyl blue or other basic dyes are applied to dried and alcohol fixed blood smears. Moreover, no reticular structure could hitherto be demonstrated in the young red blood cells by microscopic examination of unstained blood with direct or oblique illumination, dark field illumination or in ultraviolet light.1While examining unstained wet blood films of albino mice with the phase microscope, we found that an occasional red blood cell showed a very delicate, hardly discernible reticulum. The cells showing this reticulum were fewer in number than the reticulocytes demonstrable by supravital staining with brilliant cresyl blue. However, when certain hypotonic salt solutions, preferably potassium oxalate 0.8% or ammonium oxalate 1.2% were mixed with the fresh blood, a larger number of cells, corresponding to the percentage of reticulocytes, s...
Jacobi's Solution of Linear Diophantine Equations

(1975). Jacobi's Solution of Linear Diophantine Equations. Mathematics Magazine: Vol. 48, No. 3, pp. 159-163.
Nano-CaCO3 as a pH sensitive theranostic platform

Theranostic platforms allow the capability of both diagnostic level imaging and therapy for diseases such as cancer. The decreased pH found in the extracellular environment in cancer is an ideal target for cancer theranostics, because it is both a unique and universal hallmark that distinguishes tumor regions from normal tissue, but also that the decreased pH has been linked to tumor growth and metastasis. We describe herein the development of nano-CaCO3, a novel nanoparticle that can both increase pH in vivo resulting in therapeutic benefit, but also dissolves only at pHs less than 7.4 in vivo, creating a pH sensitivity to the nanoparticle that can be used to detect the more acidic pH ranges in vivo. As a result, nano-CaCO3 is pH sensitive theranostic platform for cancer detection and treatment in vivo.
High hydroscopicity resin and its application in petroleum industry

For molecular weight of high molecular injectivity resin is high and structure is complex,its hydroscopicity is very strong. The paper analyses the mechanism and performances of starch injectivity resin. fibre injectivity resin and synthetic injectivity resin .These resins may be used in water shutoff profile control, pealing pipe line, dewatering of oil product and crude oil, and sewage disposal etc. in petroleum industry.
Increased dermal elastic fibers in the tight skin mouse.

O b j e c t i v e . The tight skin (Ts k - 1 ) mouse has been proposed as a model for systemic sclerosis on the basis of increased accumulation of collagen and glycosaminoglycans in the skin, and by the presence of serum autoantibodies. The genetic basis of the mutation has been identified as a genomic duplication within the fibrillin-1 (Fbn-1) gene that results in a larger than normal Fbn-1 transcript, but the mechanism that leads to dermal fibrosis is unclear . Fibrillin molecules associate into a polymer that is coated with elastin molecules to form elastic fibers. To further evaluate the Tsk-1 mouse model of scleroderma, we have studied elastic fibers in the skin of these mice. Methods. Skin sections obtained from C57BL/6-TSK+ (Tsk-1) and C57BL6pa/+ (control) mice were stained with Masson’s trichrome for evaluation of collagen and Gomori’s aldehyde fuchsin stain for elastic tissue. Computer assisted image analysis was performed to quantify differences in histologic sections. Results. Tsk-1 mice had a highly signif icant increase in the percentage of elastic fibers (19.6%) in the dermis compared to control mice (7.9%) [p< 0.001]. This correlates with the find ings in the skin of systemic sclerosis patients where increased elastic fibers have been observed. In addition, an increased level of dermal collagen staining was also observed in the Tsk-1 dermis (82.9%) compared with the level in normal sections (73.7%) [p<0.01]. C o n c l u s i o n . These data support the use of the Tsk-1 mouse as a model for the connective tissue abnormalities of human scleroderma.
Isoform-Specific Effects of Wild-Type Ras Genes on Carcinogen-Induced Lung Tumorigenesis in Mice

The gene KRAS is commonly mutated in lung cancer to encode a constitutively active and oncogenic protein that is well established to initiate and maintain lung tumorigenesis. However, the remaining wild-type KRAS protein, or the other family members HRAS and NRAS, can still be activated in the presence of oncogenic KRAS. Moreover, loss of any one of these three genes has been shown to increase the sensitivity of mice to the carcinogen urethane, which induces Kras mutation-positive early lung lesions. To determine the contribution of progressively disrupting Hras and Nras genes on urethane lung tumorigenesis, mice with different combinations of wild-type and null alleles of Hras and Nras were exposed with urethane and tumor burden was assessed. As previously reported, loss of one allele of Hras increased the sensitivity of mice to this carcinogen, and this effect was further exacerbated by the loss of the second Hras allele. However, loss of one or both alleles of Nras failed to alter tumor burden, either in the absence or presence of Hras, after exposure to urethane. Additionally, no obvious difference between lung lesions in mice with wild-type versus null alleles was detected, suggesting that wild-type Ras proteins may exert a tumor suppressive effects at the time of initiation, although other interpretations are certainly possible. In summary, these data suggest that in some genetic backgrounds inactivation of different wild-type Ras genes can have different effects on urethane-induced lung tumorigenesis.
Delayed gastric emptying following pancreaticoduodenectomy: Incidence, risk factors, and healthcare utilization

Delayed gastric emptying following pancreaticoduodenectomy: Incidence, risk factors, and healthcare utilization
Abstract 398: Histone Demethylase Kdm6a Contributes To X Chromosome Dependent Ischemia/reperfusion Injury Via Epigenetic Regulation

Introduction: Sex differences in susceptibility to ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury have been mostly attributed to sex hormones. Recently we examined the role of sex chromosomes in sex differences in myocardial I/R injury. We discovered that gonadectomized mice with two X chromosomes (XX or XXY) have ~50% larger infarct size after I/R injury, compared to mice with one X chromosome (XY or XO). Only few X genes escape X inactivation and are expressed higher in XX than XY individuals. Here we examined the role of “X escapee” histone demethylase Kdm6a which is important in cardiac development. Methods: Female mice with a heterozygous global knockout of Kdm6a (Kdm6a+/-) and with 2 copies of Kdm6a (Kdm6a+/+, regular WT) were used. Isolated mouse hearts were subjected to 30 min global normothermic ischemia followed by 60 min reperfusion. RNA-Seq analysis was performed by comparing gene expression in hearts of Kdm6a+/+ vs. Kdm6a+/- females at baseline before ischemia. We calculated an unbiased composite score of relevance in which the level of significance of the Kdm6a effect on expression (p value) was integrated with the size of the KDM6A effect on expression (fold change), and with the amount of H3K27me3 mark found on the genes in the heart based on online ChIP-Seq data. Two way ANOVA was used for statistical analysis. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Values are expressed as mean± SE. Results: Kdm6a+/+ female mice had significantly lower heart functional recovery compared to their littermate Kdm6a+/- (LVDP: 46.7±9.8% vs. 79.8±3.5%; RPP: 44.1±10.5% vs. 76.2±8.5%, n=6-8 mice/group, p<0.01). The integration of our RNA-Seq data using the hearts of female mice with 2 vs. 1 copy of Kdm6a (n=4 samples per group) with online datasets measuring the H3K27me3 mark, sex differences in expression in humans and mice, and involvement in ischemic heart failure, revealed carbonic anhydrase-3 (Car3) as the most interesting candidate (upregulated ~7 fold in the hearts of Kdm6a+/+ vs. Kdm6a+/- female mice) at baseline. Car3 encodes one isoform of carbonic anhydrase, involved in pH regulation, which is a critical part of I/R injury. Conclusion: Histone demethylase KDM6A contributes to X chromosome dependent I/R injury via epigenetic regulation
John S. Thompson: Technology Challenges in the Development of the First Single-Chip DSP

As we reflect on John Thompson's career, we realize how significant his achievements have been and recognize the impact he has had on our industry. His achievements span several decades.
Overcoming lower imagery ability through process priming

Abstract To promote services and products, marketers often prompt consumers' imagination through advertisements that include imagery appeals (e.g., “Imagine yourself here”). Yet, previous research shows that these appeals are ineffective among consumers with lower imagery ability who find it difficult to imagine the scenes presented in the advertisement. In five studies, we show that this difficulty of imagination associated with lower imagery ability and the consequent ineffectiveness of imagery appeals can be overcome through process priming and, specifically, by positioning ads that include imagery appeals after stimuli that trigger (i.e., prime) imagery processing. These findings provide a practical solution to the downside of imagery appeals and document a new effect of process priming. Furthermore, we provide preliminary evidence that, in light of the results presented in this paper, the current placement of imagery appeals in popular magazines might be suboptimal.
Can higher training practice dosage with treadmill slip-perturbation necessarily reduce risk of falls following overground slip?

Abstract Background Perturbation training is an emerging paradigm to reduce idiopathic falls (without clinical signs or symptoms) in older adults. While a higher threat dosage (intensity) in motor learning often directly relates to greater adaptation, retention, and generalization, little is known whether increasing the practice dosage (repetition) of slip-perturbation training would necessarily improve its outcomes. Research question Can higher practice dosage of treadmill slip-perturbation training lead to greater generalization to an overground slip immediately after the training? Methods Forty-five community-dwelling older adults (73.5 ± 5.6 years old) participated in the present study. They were conveniently assigned to three groups with equivalent treadmill walking duration: treadmill slip-perturbation training group with 40 practice dosage, 24 practice dosage, and zero practice dosage (without slip-perturbation). Later on during overground walking, all of them were exposed to the same generalization test (a novel slip on a walkway). Their recovery outcomes (fall, or no fall; balance loss, or no balance loss) and center of mass stability were compared. Results Higher practice dosage did not show significantly less incidence of fall, balance loss, or greater stability in comparison to lower practice dosage (p > .05). The present study showed that there was no evidence of dose-response relationship when the practice dosage was set above the 24 trials of practice dosage in treadmill slip-perturbation training. Significance Contrary to our hypothesis, increased practice dosage (40-slips) in treadmill slip-perturbation training from the commonly used threshold (24-slips) did not necessarily benefit immediate generalization from treadmill to overground walking among community-dwelling older adults.
Vascular smooth muscle cells direct extracellular dysregulation in aortic stiffening of hypertensive rats.

Aortic stiffening is an independent risk factor that underlies cardiovascular morbidity in the elderly. We have previously shown that intrinsic mechanical properties of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) play a key role in aortic stiffening in both aging and hypertension. Here, we test the hypothesis that VSMCs also contribute to aortic stiffening through their extracellular effects. Aortic stiffening was confirmed in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) vs. Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats in vivo by echocardiography and ex vivo by isometric force measurements in isolated de-endothelized aortic vessel segments. Vascular smooth muscle cells were isolated from thoracic aorta and embedded in a collagen I matrix in an in vitro 3D model to form reconstituted vessels. Reconstituted vessel segments made with SHR VSMCs were significantly stiffer than vessels made with WKY VSMCs. SHR VSMCs in the reconstituted vessels exhibited different morphologies and diminished adaptability to stretch compared to WKY VSMCs, implying dual effects on both static and dynamic stiffness. SHR VSMCs increased the synthesis of collagen and induced collagen fibril disorganization in reconstituted vessels. Mechanistically, compared to WKY VSMCs, SHR VSMCs exhibited an increase in the levels of active integrin β1- and bone morphogenetic protein 1 (BMP1)-mediated proteolytic cleavage of lysyl oxidase (LOX). These VSMC-induced alterations in the SHR were attenuated by an inhibitor of serum response factor (SRF)/myocardin. Therefore, SHR VSMCs exhibit extracellular dysregulation through modulating integrin β1 and BMP1/LOX via SRF/myocardin signaling in aortic stiffening.
In vitro mineral nutrition of Curcuma longa L. affects production of volatile compounds in rhizomes after transfer to the greenhouse

Turmeric is a rich source of bioactive compounds useful in both medicine and cuisine. Mineral concentrations effects (PO43−, Ca2+, Mg2+, and KNO3) were tested during in vitro rhizome development on the ex vitro content of volatile constituents in rhizomes after 6 months in the greenhouse. A response surface method (D-optimal criteria) was repeated in both high and low-input fertilizer treatments. Control plants were grown on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium, acclimatized in the greenhouse and grown in the field. The volatile constituents were investigated by GC-MS. The total content of volatiles was affected by fertilizer treatments, and in vitro treatment with Ca2+ and KNO3; but PO43− and Mg2+ had no significant effect. The content was higher in the high-input fertilizer treatments (49.7 ± 9 mg/g DM) with 4 mM Ca2+, 60 mM KNO3 and 5 mM NH4+, than the low-input fertilizer (26.6 ± 9 mg/g DM), and the MS control (15.28 ± 2.7 mg/g DM; 3 mM Ca2+, 20 mM K+, 39 mM NO3−, 20 mM NH4+, 1.25 mM PO43−, and 1.5 mM Mg2+). The interaction of Ca2+ with KNO3 affected curcumenol isomer I and II, germacrone, isocurcumenol, and β-elemenone content. Increasing in vitro phosphate concentration to 6.25 mM increased ex vitro neocurdione and methenolone contents. These results show that minerals in the in vitro bioreactor medium during rhizome development affected biosynthesis of turmeric volatile components after transfer to the greenhouse six months later. The multi-factor design identified 1) nutrient regulation of specific components within unique phytochemical profile for Curcuma longa L. clone 35–1 and 2) the varied phytochemical profiles were maintained with integrity during the greenhouse growth in high fertility conditions.
Cost reduction in location management using semi-realtime movement information

This paper introduces a dynamic paging scheme based on the semi-realtime movement information of an individual user, which allows a more accurate predication of the user location at the time of paging. In general, a realtime location tracking scheme may require complex control schemes and incur unacceptably high computation and messaging cost. Our proposed approach, namely the velocity paging scheme, relaxes the realtime constraints to semi-realtime to provide a good combination of cost reduction and ease of implementation. The proposed velocity paging scheme utilizes semi-realtime velocity information, namely velocity classes, of individual mobile terminals and dynamically calculates a paging zone (a list of cells to be paged) for an incoming call. Therefore, the total paging cost can be reduced due to the paging area reduction. Much consideration also has been given to reduce the complexity of the proposed scheme. As a result, it only requires minimal extra overhead and is feasible to implement in current cellular/PCS networks. The velocity paging can be combined with the movement-based registration or other registration schemes. Analytical and simulation results of the velocity paging and movement-based registration combination are provided to demonstrate the cost effectiveness of the scheme under various parameters in comparison with the location area scheme.
Establishing Instructional Validity for Minimum Competency Programs

Effective education depends on a proper working relation between instruction and assessment — the linkage between teaching and testing is essential. A few decades ago, the ties between what was taught and what was tested seemed fairly direct. The teacher was responsible for both activities. Tests were often short essays. In math, it was important to “show your work.” Exams came regularly, often once a week, covering recent material from lectures and assignments. Final exams were more comprehensive and required students to review and integrate what they had been taught.
Secure Control Under Linear Temporal Logic Constraints

Cyber-physical systems must satisfy performance and safety criteria in spite of malicious attacks. In this paper, we investigate the problem of automatically synthesizing a control policy that maximizes the probability of satisfying safety and liveness constraints modeled using Linear Temporal Logic in the presence of an adversary. We develop a Stackelberg game framework, in which the controller chooses a probabilistic policy and the adversary chooses an attack strategy based on observation of that policy. We prove that maximizing the probability of satisfying safety and liveness constraints in this framework is equivalent to a worst-case reachability problem, and propose polynomial-time algorithms for computing the optimal policy. We illustrate our approach via numerical study.
A 16-GHz ultra-high-speed Si-SiGe HBT comparator

This paper presents an improved master-slave bipolar Si-SiGe HBT comparator design for ultra-high-speed data converter applications. The latch is maintained during the track stage facilitating quick transition back to the latch stage, increasing the sampling speed of the comparator. Implemented in a 0.5-/spl mu/m 55-GHz BiCMOS Si-SiGe process, this comparator consumes approximately 80 mW with sampling speeds up to 16 GHz.
An Introduction to the Theory of M -Decompositions

We provide a short introduction to the theory of M-decompositions in the framework of steady-state diffusion problems. This theory allows us to systematically devise hybridizable discontinuous Galerkin and mixed methods which can be proven to be superconvergent on unstructured meshes made of elements of a variety of shapes. The main feature of this approach is that it reduces such an effort to the definition, for each element K of the mesh, of the spaces for the flux, V (K), and the scalar variable, W(K), which, roughly speaking, can be decomposed into suitably chosen orthogonal subspaces related to the space traces on ∂K of the scalar unknown, M(∂K). We begin by showing how a simple a priori error analysis motivates the notion of an M-decomposition. We then study the main properties of the M-decompositions and show how to actually construct them. Finally, we provide many examples in the two-dimensional setting. We end by briefly commenting on several extensions including to other equations like the wave equation, the equations of linear elasticity, and the equations of incompressible fluid flow.
p53 Up-regulated Modulator of Apoptosis Induction Mediates Acetaminophen-Induced Necrosis and Liver Injury in Mice

Acetaminophen (APAP) overdose is one of the leading causes of hepatotoxicity and acute liver failure in the United States. Accumulating evidence suggests that hepatocyte necrosis plays a critical role in APAP-induced liver injury (AILI). However, the mechanisms of APAP-induced necrosis and liver injury are not fully understood. In this study, we found that p53 up-regulated modulator of apoptosis (PUMA), a B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) homology domain 3 (BH3)-only Bcl-2 family member, was markedly induced by APAP in mouse livers and in isolated human and mouse hepatocytes. PUMA deficiency suppressed APAP-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and release of cell death factors from mitochondria, and protected against APAP-induced hepatocyte necrosis and liver injury in mice. PUMA induction by APAP was p53 independent, and required receptor-interacting protein kinase 1 (RIP1) and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) by transcriptional activation. Furthermore, a small-molecule PUMA inhibitor, administered after APAP treatment, mitigated APAP-induced hepatocyte necrosis and liver injury. Conclusion: Our results demonstrate that RIP1/JNK-dependent PUMA induction mediates AILI by promoting hepatocyte mitochondrial dysfunction and necrosis, and suggest that PUMA inhibition is useful for alleviating acute hepatotoxicity attributed to APAP overdose.
Reversible spatio-temporal perturbation for protecting location privacy

Abstract Ubiquitous deployment of low-cost mobile positioning devices and widespread use of high-speed wireless networks have resulted in a rapid growth of location-based applications. While location-based services provide a wide range of life enhancing experiences to users, the exposure of location information poses significant privacy risks that can invade the users’ location privacy. Location privacy risks can be mitigated using location anonymization techniques that perturb the raw location of users to make the location indistinguishable from that of a set of other users. A fundamental limitation of traditional location anonymization techniques is that they are developed as unidirectional techniques that fail to support multi-level control of access to location data when data users have different access privileges on the exposed location information. As a result, location information once perturbed cannot be reduced in terms of anonymity or degree of perturbation even when some data users have access to fine granular information in the exposed data. Recent techniques on reversible spatial cloaking techniques employ data anonymization keys to perturb a user’s location in a pseudo-random manner such that the anonymized location information can be de-anonymized later using the anonymization keys. While reversible spatial cloaking provides support for multi-level location privacy, their performance is limited by their adopted spatial cloaking model in which the location perturbation occurs solely in the spatial domain without considering the temporal domain. Hence, reversible spatial location cloaking techniques obtain lower success rate and lower spatial resolution of the perturbed location leading to unreliable anonymization and lower service quality. This paper presents a new suite of reversible cloaking techniques that reversibly perturb location information of users using a spatio-temporal cloaking model, allowing data perturbation to occur along both spatial and temporal dimensions while still ensuring that the spatio-temporal expansion process is reversible when suitable access keys are provided. The proposed model achieves higher success rate and higher spatial resolution compared to reversible spatial cloaking. We compare our techniques through extensive experiments on real road networks. The results show that our techniques offer better QoS performance than the existing approaches and demonstrate strong attack resilience against adversarial attacks.
Effect of Surface Ligands on CoP for the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction

The activity of colloidally synthesized CoP for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) was studied to determine the impact of surface ligands on catalysis. The as-synthesized CoP nanocrystals were s...
Review of Trace Mineral Requirements for Preterm Infants

Inadequate nutrient stores at birth are an inevitable consequence of being born prematurely. Preterm infants also have high nutrient requirements, which increase with earlier gestational ages. As a result, early nutrition intervention is required to prevent further deficits that, if not corrected, can affect growth and long-term outcomes. Preterm infants often require several weeks of parenteral nutrition (PN) support, which includes trace mineral supplementation. Trace minerals are considered essential nutrients, unable to be synthesized in the human body. Deficiencies of trace minerals have been reported, yet evidence-based guidelines for assessment and supplementation have not been clearly defined. Food and Drug Administration–approved parenteral trace mineral intake guidelines are more than 30 years old. In an effort to more clearly define trace mineral supplementation and monitoring guidelines for preterm infants, a review of literature was performed with the purpose to (1) summarize trace mineral ro...
Adventures in neural plasticity, aging, and neurodegenerative disorders aboard the CWC beagle.

This article recounts some of the scientific endeavors of Carl W. Cotman (CWC) during his journeys through the cellular circuitry of the mammalian brain. I have selected for consideration his findings that have been an important impetus for my own research; in several cases our different experiments have provided complementary data to support an hypothesis. Three examples are (i) Carl's studies of the roles of glutamate in synaptic transmission and plasticity in the adult brain and my studies of how glutamate regulates neurite outgrowth and cell survival in brain development; (ii) his and our studies of the mechanisms whereby amyloid β-peptide damages and kills neurons; and (iii) Carl's evidence that physical activity regulates neurotrophin levels in the brain and our evidence that dietary restriction has similar effects and is neuroprotective. In case you have not yet realized how I chose a title for this article it is because Carl has a (very distant) connection with Charles Darwin—Darwin sailed on a vessel called the Beagle and Carl has studied beagle dogs, establishing them as a model for understanding the neurobiology of human brain aging.
Biomechanical factors during common agricultural activities: Results of on-farm exposure assessments using direct measurement methods

Agricultural work is associated with increased risk of adverse musculoskeletal health outcomes. The purpose of this study was to quantify exposure to biomechanical factors among a sample (n = 55) o...
P027 Safety and effectiveness of same-day screening and treatment among youth in los angeles, california

Background Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) are the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ) and homeless youth often report risk-taking behaviors such as higher number of sex partners and condom-less sex, yet they have decreased access to healthcare services. Providing treatment following testing can reduce the transmission of infection and the risk of developing complications. As part of a large, adolescent prevention study, we provided same-day CT/NG testing and treatment for participants. Methods We recruited 578 persons aged 12–24 years from homeless shelters, LGBTQ organizations, and community health centers in Los Angeles, California beginning May 2017. Participants received point-of-care pharyngeal, rectal, and urethral/vaginal CT/NG testing using the Cepheid GeneXpert. Beginning March 2018, after a positive CT or NG test result, participants were offered a same-day treatment pack. Participants were additionally offered treatment packs for their sex partners. We measured the proportion of participants who received treatment within 3 months of testing, the median time-to-treatment, and the number of expedited partner therapy packs taken by participants between March 2018 - December 2018. Results Before offering same-day treatment for CT/NG infection, only 35% (15/43) of participants had confirmed treatment. After implementing the same-day treatment packs, 76% (42/55) of participants received treatment (Δ = 41%, p-value Conclusion Providing same day STI testing and treatment to high-risk youth is safe, feasible, and can increase the proportion of individuals receiving timely treatment. Disclosure No significant relationships.
New frontiers in imaging including radiomics updates for pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms

To illustrate the applications of various imaging tools including conventional MDCT, MRI including DWI, CT & MRI radiomics, FDG & DOTATATE PET-CT for diagnosis, staging, grading, prognostication, treatment planning and assessing treatment response in cases of pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (PNENs). Gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (GEP NENs) are very diverse clinically & biologically. Their treatment and prognosis depend on staging and primary site, as well as histological grading, the importance of which is also reflected in the recently updated WHO classification of GEP NENs. Grade 3 poorly differentiated neuroendocrine carcinomas (NECs) are aggressive & nearly always advanced at diagnosis with poor prognosis; whereas Grades-1 and 2 well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) can be quite indolent. Grade 3 well-differentiated NETs represent a new category of neoplasm with an intermediate prognosis. Importantly, the evidence suggest grade heterogeneity can occur within a given tumor and even grade progression can occur over time. Emerging evidence suggests that several non-invasive qualitative and quantitative imaging features on CT, dual-energy CT (DECT), MRI, PET and somatostatin receptor imaging with new tracers, as well as texture analysis, may be useful to grade, prognosticate, and accurately stage primary NENs. Imaging features may also help to inform choice of treatment and follow these neoplasms post-treatment. GEP NENs treatment and prognosis depend on the stage as well as histological grade of the tumor. Traditional ways of imaging evaluation for diagnosis and staging does not yet yield sufficient information to replace operative and histological evaluation. Recognition of important qualitative imaging features together with quantitative features and advanced imaging tools including functional imaging with DWI MRI, DOTATATE PET/CT, texture analysis with radiomics and radiogenomic features appear promising for more accurate staging, tumor risk stratification, guiding management and assessing treatment response.
Properties of resonant photonic lattices at the lattice-particle Mie scattering wavelength

We address differentiation of Mie resonance and guided-mode resonance in mediating perfect reflection by periodic particle assemblies. With clear examples, Mie scattering is precluded as the operative effect.