cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
PERTURBATION APPROACH TO THE DIFFRACTION OF ELECTROMAGNETIC WAVES BY ARBITRARILY SHAPED DIELECTRIC OBSTACLES

A perturbation method is developed to consider the problem of the diffraction of electromagnetic waves by an arbitrarily shaped dielectric obstacle whose boundary may be expressed in the general form, in spherical coordinates, ${r}_{p}={r}_{0}[1+\ensuremath{\delta}{f}_{1}(\ensuremath{\theta}, \ensuremath{\varphi})+{\ensuremath{\delta}}^{2}{f}_{2}(\ensuremath{\theta}, \ensuremath{\varphi})+\ensuremath{\cdots}]$ where ${r}_{0}$ is the radius of an unperturbed sphere and ${f}_{n}(\ensuremath{\theta}, \ensuremath{\varphi})$ are arbitrary, single-valued and analytic functions. $\ensuremath{\delta}$ is chosen such that $\ensuremath{\Sigma}\stackrel{\ensuremath{\infty}}{n=1}|{\ensuremath{\delta}}^{n}{f}_{n}(\ensuremath{\theta}, \ensuremath{\varphi})|l1, 0\ensuremath{\le}\ensuremath{\theta}\ensuremath{\le}\ensuremath{\pi}, 0\ensuremath{\le}\ensuremath{\varphi}\ensuremath{\le}2\ensuremath{\pi}.$ Detailed analysis is carried out to the first order in $\ensuremath{\delta}$. Procedures to obtain higher order terms are also indicated. The perturbation solutions are valid for the near zone region of the obstacle as well as for the far zone region and they are applicable for all frequencies. Possible applications of this perturbation technique to elementary-particle scattering problems and other electromagnetic scattering problems are noted.
Validity of time-dependent Hartree-Fock theory for the multiphoton ionization of atoms.

The validity of time-dependent Hartree-Fock (TDHF) theory is explored for the multiphoton ionization of atoms. The 3D electrostatic interaction is replaced by a 1D soft-core interaction which allows the construction of an {ital N}-electron atom in only {ital N} dimensions. For multiphoton ionization of a two-electron He'' atom in its ground state, we solve the time-dependent Schroedinger equation directly on a 2D lattice and solve a 1D formulation of the TDHF equations. The 2D lattice solution compares favorably with the frozen-core TDHF results, but not with the full nonlinear TDHF results.
X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy of the Molybdenum Site of Escherichia coli Formate Dehydrogenase

X-ray absorption spectroscopy at the molybdenum and selenium K-edges has been used to probe the active site structure of Escherichia coli formate dehydrogenase H. The active sites of both oxidized and reduced wild-type protein, and of a variant containing cysteine instead of selenocysteine, were studied. The oxidized and reduced enzymes were found to be very similar, both containing a novel des-oxo molybdenum site, with four Mo−S ligands at 2.35 A, (probably) one Mo−O at 2.1 A, and one Mo−Se ligand at 2.62 A being indicated from the Mo K-edge data. The selenium K-edge EXAFS not only is in good agreement with the Mo K-edge data but also indicates the unexpected presence of Se−S ligation, with a bond length of 2.19 A. We suggest that the active site of Escherichia coli formate dehydrogenase H contains a novel seleno-sulfide ligand to molybdenum, where the selenium and sulfur originate from selenocysteine and one of the pterin-cofactor dithiolenes, respectively.
A C3 Symmetric Nitrate Complex with a Thiophene-Based Tripodal Receptor

A thiophene-based tripodal receptor has been synthesized, and its complexes with nitrate and iodide have been determined by single-crystal X-ray analysis. In the nitrate complex, one nitrate is encapsulated in a selective orientation, forming a C3 symmetric complex, which is bonded to three protonated secondary amines with six NH···O bonds. The anion is coordinated in a plane perpendicular to the principal rotation axis passing through the tertiary nitrogen of the receptor and the nitrogen of the encapsulated nitrate. High-level DFT calculations support the crystallographic results, demonstrating that an adduct with trigonal binding of three oxygen atoms is more stable than that of one oxygen atom of the encapsulate nitrate. On the other hand, in the structure of the iodide complex, all three iodides lie outside the cavity. 1H NMR titration studies indicate that the receptor forms a 1:1 complex with nitrate yielding a binding constant of K = 315 M−1 in chloroform, showing a moderate selectivity over halid...
Incidence of antibiotic resistance and R factors among gram-negative bacteria isolated from the neonatal intestine.

Stool specimens were collected from 119 infants in the well-baby nursery and 14 infants in the high-risk nursery of University Hospital and examined for the presence of antibiotic-resistant enteric bacteria. A total of 102 resistant strains were isolated from the two groups and examined for the presence of R factors. Of these organisms, 38 per cent were capable of transferring all or part of their antibiotic resistance to an antibiotic-sensitive, F − , derivative of Escherichia coli K-12. The data demonstrated that a significant number of the strains were resistant to ampicillin, streptomycin, or tetracycline and, to a lesser extent, cephalothin or kanamycin.
The psychological benefits of exercise and the treatment of delinquent adolescents.

The conviction that athletic participation imparts desirable educational, social and personal values has been the basis for including recreational sports in the remedial programme for juvenile delinquents. More recently, the psychological benefits of aerobic exercise and increased fitness have been investigated. Changes following intensive exercise include reductions in anxiety, tension and depression, and increased self-esteem. These effects have been variously hypothesised as due to a sense of increased control or mastery, a meditative effect or to alterations in neurotransmitter-levels. Delinquent adolescents comprise a heterogeneous population characterised by clusters of risk factors, handicapping conditions and psychopathology, with a prevalence of depression and low self-esteem far exceeding that of the population at large. Intervention which can benefit these characteristics may be especially useful in preventive or therapeutic programmes in this group. While less intensive recreational play or physically challenging ‘Outward Bound’ programmes can be effective in improving social attitudes and self-esteem, intensive aerobic exercise may produce greater improvements in self-esteem and depression. Future research must identify the mechanisms by which exercise confers these benefits, whether it enhances other areas, such as social skills or academic performance, and which populations are benefitted by such programmes.
SU-E-T-617: Commissioning the Eclipse Pencil Beam for Low Energy X-Rays

Purpose: To use an existing treatment planning system to configure a low energy beam in order to evaluate the possibility of applying such a beam to intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT). It has been shown that low energy photons combined with heavy metal contrast can provide a higher relative biological effectiveness (RBE) through Auger electron production. Achieving a higher RBE may provide additional treatment options for patients with tumor types, such as glioblastoma, that are resistant to megavoltage therapy. Methods: A set of low energy photon beam data was generated using Monte Carlo simulation, put into appropriate w2CAD formatting, and imported into Varian Eclipse TPS to provide a set of depth dose curves and profiles. Additional beam data was calculated and a low energy beam was configured using the Pencil Beam Convolution algorithm. Treatment plans investigating dose distribution of the beam utilizing IMRT techniques were created to evaluate the usefulness of this technique. Results: The Eclipse TPS is able to model the dose distributions that would be produced by a low energy beam in a solid water phantom. In theory we could apply this model to IMRT treatment techniques to provide a more conformal dose distribution. Dose enhancement due to heavy metal contrast will initially be included as a simple scaling of the dose within the target region. The inclusion of heterogeneity corrections is difficult due to the enhanced photoelectric effect in bone at low energies, and is under investigation. Conclusion: Eclipse is capable of modeling a low energy photon beam using the pencil beam algorithm for calculation on homogeneous phantoms. Further investigation is needed to determine the ability of the treatment planning system to assist in low energy photon treatment planning, with the eventual goal of providing a higher RBE therapy option for resistant tumor types.
Competition between two virulent Marek's disease virus strains in vivo

Previous studies have demonstrated the presence of multiple strains of Marek's disease virus simultaneously circulating within poultry flocks, leading to the assumption that individual birds are repeatedly exposed to a variety of virus strains in their lifetime. Virus competition within individual birds may be an important factor that influences the outcome of co-infection under field conditions, including the potential outcome of emergence or evolution of more virulent strains. A series of experiments was designed to evaluate virus competition within chickens following simultaneous challenge with two virulent serotype 1 Marek's disease virus strains, using either pathogenically similar (rMd5 and rMd5/pp38CVI) or dissimilar (JM/102W and rMd5/pp38CVI) virus pairs. Bursa of Fabricius, feather follicle epithelium, spleen, and tumour samples were collected at multiple time points to determine the frequency and distribution of each virus present using pyrosequencing, immunohistochemistry and virus isolation. In the similar pair, rMd5 appeared to have a competitive advantage over rMd5/pp38CVI, which in turn had a competitive advantage over the less virulent JM/102W in the dissimilar virus pair. Dominance of one strain over the other was not absolute for either virus pair, as the subordinate virus was rarely eliminated. Interestingly, competition between two viruses with either pair rarely ended in a draw. Further work is needed to identify factors that influence virus-specific dominance to better understand what characteristics favour emergence of one strain in chicken populations at the expense of other strains.
Fractionation and gas chromatographic analysis of aza-arenes in complex mixtures

Abstract Complex mistures of nitrogen-containing polyaromatics (aza-arenes) require fractionation for improved resolution and trace component enrichment prior to gas chromatographic—mass spectrometric (GC—MS) identification. Suitably of high-performance liquid chromatography using a polar stationary phase to meet this goal is demonstrated. Evaluation of stationary phases for the separation of complex aza-arene mixtures by capillary GC was carried out using selectivity, thermal stability, and column deactivation as criteria. Separation up to 5-ring structures aresubsequently demonstrated, using the basic fraction of cannabis smoke condensate and coal tar as example.
Powerful Pacifists: Democratic States and War.

Democracies are less likely to fight wars with each other. They are also more likely to prevail in wars with autocratic states. I offer an explanation of this syndrome of powerful pacifism drawn from the microeconomic theory of the state. State rent seeking creates an imperialist bias in a country's foreign policy. This bias is smallest in democracies, where the costs to society of controlling the state are relatively low, and greatest in autocracies, where the costs are higher. As a result of this bias, autocracies will be more expansionist and, in turn, war-prone. In their relations with each other, where the absence of this imperialist bias is manifest, the relative pacifism of democracies appears. In addition, democracies, constrained by their societies from earning rents, will devote greater absolute resources to security, enjoy greater societal support for their policies, and tend to form overwhelming countercoalitions against expansionist autocracies. It follows that democracies will be more likely to win wars.
Health Factors Associated with Microchip Insertion in Horses

Abstract The objectives of this study were to characterize the inflammatory response after microchip insertion, evaluate pain response and swelling at the microchip insertion site, and measure migration of the microchips. Eighteen mature Quarter Horse mares were separated by expected parturition dates and then assigned randomly to treatment groups. The microchip group (n = 7) had microchips inserted using a sterile needle and syringe; the sham group (n = 7) had a needle inserted but no microchip; and the control group (n = 4) had no insertion. The inflammatory response was measured over a 2-week period by measuring dermal temperature, response to pressure, and swelling at the insertion site and plasma serum amyloid A (SAA). For the migration component of the study, radiographs of the seven microchipped horses were taken over 6 months after insertion. These radiographs allowed measurement between a select vertebral point and the microchip. The microchip and sham insertion did not cause a detectable increase in temperature. Algometer readings, used to quantify pressure necessary to induce a pain threshold response, indicated that microchip insertion area was more sensitive than sham insertion at 2 hours, day 1, and day 3 post insertion. Visible swelling began 2 hours postinsertion and resolved by day 3. SAA concentrations were affected by day following insertion, but not by treatment group. Increases in SAA concentration could not be matched with local insertion reactions. Migration was not detected in any of the horses during the 6 months within a 0.7-cm margin of error.
Discrepancy between first—dose converting enzyme inhibition at rest and subsequent inhibition during exercise in chronic heart failure

Low-dose angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition is thought to completely block the renin-angiotensin system. This study examined the hemodynamic and hormonal responses to initial low- and higher dose converting-enzyme inhibitor (lisinopril or captopril) at rest compared with the response during subsequent chronic therapy while treadmill exercise testing was performed in nine patients with chronic heart failure. At rest, similar changes in systemic arterial pressure, plasma renin activity, and plasma aldosterone concentration were found with initial low and higher doses. However, after at least 4 weeks of therapy, dose-dependent increases in plasma renin activity and decreases in plasma aldosterone concentration were noted during exercise without significant differences in exercise systemic arterial pressure or heart rate. This discrepancy suggests that initial low-dose converting enzyme inhibition does completely block the enzyme, but higher dose therapy is required for complete blockade during subsequent exercise in chronic heart failure.
Tight junction biology and kidney dysfunction.

The epithelial tight junction (TJ) has three major functions. As a “gate,” it serves as a regulatory barrier separating and maintaining biological fluid compartments of different composition. As a ...
Assessing agreement of clustering methods with gene expression microarray data

In the rapidly evolving field of genomics, many clustering and classification methods have been developed and employed to explore patterns in gene expression data. Biologists face the choice of which clustering algorithm(s) to use and how to interpret different results from various clustering algorithms. No clear objective criteria have been developed to assess the agreement and compare the results from different clustering methods. We describe two generally applicable objective measures to quantify agreement between different clustering methods. These two measures are referred to as the local agreement measure, which is defined for each gene/subject, and the global agreement measure, which is defined for the whole gene expression experiment. The agreement measures are based on a probabilistic weighting scheme applied to the number of concordant and discordant pairs from two clustering methods. In the comparison and assessment process, newly-developed concepts are implemented under the framework of reliability of a cluster. The algorithms are illustrated by simulations and then applied to a yeast sporulation gene expression microarray data. Analysis of the sporulation data identified ~5% (23 of 477) genes which were not consistently clustered using a neural net algorithm and K-means or pam. The two agreement measures provide objective criteria to conclude whether or not two clustering methods agree with each other. Using the local agreement measure, genes of unknown function which cluster consistently can more confidently be assigned functions based on co-regulation.
Dynamic Pooling and Unfolding Recursive Autoencoders for Paraphrase Detection

Paraphrase detection is the task of examining two sentences and determining whether they have the same meaning. In order to obtain high accuracy on this task, thorough syntactic and semantic analysis of the two statements is needed. We introduce a method for paraphrase detection based on recursive autoencoders (RAE). Our unsupervised RAEs are based on a novel unfolding objective and learn feature vectors for phrases in syntactic trees. These features are used to measure the word- and phrase-wise similarity between two sentences. Since sentences may be of arbitrary length, the resulting matrix of similarity measures is of variable size. We introduce a novel dynamic pooling layer which computes a fixed-sized representation from the variable-sized matrices. The pooled representation is then used as input to a classifier. Our method outperforms other state-of-the-art approaches on the challenging MSRP paraphrase corpus.
Altered Anterior Cingulate Neurochemistry in Emerging Adult Binge Drinkers with a History of Alcohol‐Induced Blackouts

BACKGROUND: Binge alcohol consumption is associated with multiple neurobiological consequences, including altered neurophysiology, brain structure, and functional activation. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) studies have demonstrated neurochemical alterations in the frontal lobe of alcohol users, although most studies focused on older, alcohol-dependent subjects. METHODS: In this study, neurochemical data were acquired using MRS at 4.0 Tesla from emerging adults (18 to 24 years old) who were binge alcohol drinkers (BD, n = 23) or light drinkers (LD, n = 31). Since binge drinking is also associated with increased prevalence of experiencing an alcohol-induced blackout, BD were stratified into alcohol-induced blackout (BDBO) and non-blackout (BDN) groups. RESULTS: Overall, BD had significantly lower gamma amino-butyric acid (GABA) and N-acetyl-aspartate (NAA) in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) than LD. When stratified by blackout history, BDBO also had lower ACC glutamate (Glu) than LD. No group differences in MRS metabolites were observed in the parietal-occipital cortex. Lower ACC GABA and Glu remained significant after accounting for lower gray matter content in BD, however, NAA differences were no longer evident. In addition, low ACC GABA levels were associated with greater alcohol use consequences, and worse response inhibition and attention/mental flexibility in BD. CONCLUSIONS: These data indicate that binge drinking affects frontal lobe neurochemistry, more so in those who had experienced an alcohol-induced blackout. Characterization of the neurochemical profiles associated with binge alcohol consumption and blackout history may help identify unique risk factors for the later manifestation of alcohol abuse and dependence, in young individuals who are heavy, frequent drinkers, but who do not meet the criteria for alcohol abuse disorders. Language: en
On the solution value of the continuous P-center location problem on a graph

Let G = V, E be an undirected graph with positive edge lengths. Let rp denote the solution value to the continuous p-center location problem on G. We prove that rp is of the form rp = T/2q, where T is the length of an Euler tour of a subgraph of G which belongs to one of four possible types, and q is an integer, 1 ≤ q ≤ 2p. We also discuss algorithmic implications of this result.
Ten Years and Counting

The articles in this issue cover mechanics, biology, and laboratory applications, and three cover computation per se. Moreover, they're evenly divided between the two categories of CiSE readers. CiSE thus seems to be fulfilling its mission of establishing a liaison between the physical sciences and computational sciences.
HPC Enhancement of Plume Modeling for Use by Military Simulators

An application programming interface (API) was developed to make CT-Analyst's high fidelity physics based plume predictions available to modeling and simulation (M&S) tools. This plume API was used with the M&S application one semi-automated forces (OneSAF). OneSAF is a next generation entity level simulation. For a 10 by 5 km region of Baghdad, OneSAF made use of CT-Analyst through the application programming interface (API) to determine the plume locations, the plume concentration at points within the simulation, and to determine the attenuation of visibility along a line. Before the simulation is run, FAST3D-CT generates a pre-computed Nomograf database. During the simulation, OneSAF calls a CT-Analyst process that in turn interprets the Nomograf database to generate plumes.
Feature Tracking And Mapping On The Spatiotemporal Surface

The previous implementations of our Epipolar-Plane Image Analysis depth measuring technique for a moving vehicle [3] demonstrated the feasibility and benefits of the approach, but were carried out for restricted camera geometries. The question of more general geometries made utility for autonomous navigation uncertain. We have developed a generalization of the analysis that a) enables varying view direction (including varying over time), b) provides three-dimensional connectivity information for building coherent spatial descriptions of observed objects, and c) operates sequentially, allowing initiation and refinement of scene feature estimates while the sensor is in motion. To implement this generalization it was necessary to develop an explicit description of the evolution of images over time. We have achieved this by building a process that creates a set of two-dimensional manifolds defined at the zeros of a three-dimensional spatiotemporal Laplacian. These manifolds represent explicitly both the spatial and temporal structure of the temporally-evolving imagery, and we term them spatiotemporal surfaces. Named the Weaving Wall, the process which builds these surfaces operates over images as they arrive from the sensor, knitting together, along a parallel frontier, connected descriptions of images as they evolve over time. We describe the sequential construction of these surfaces and their use in three-dimensional scene reconstruction. The use of the process in other domains will be highlighted by showing its application in the area of medical imaging.
Selectivity estimation in the presence of alphanumeric correlations

Query optimization is an integral part of relational database management systems. One important task in query optimization is selectivity estimation, that is, given a query P, one needs to estimate the fraction of records in the database that satisfy P. Almost all previous work dealt with the estimation of numeric selectivity, i.e., the query contains only numeric variables. The general problem of estimating alphanumeric selectivity is much more difficult and has attracted attention only very recently, and the focus has been on the special case when only one column is involved. The authors consider the more general case when there are two correlated alphanumeric columns. They develop efficient algorithms to build storage structures that can fit in a database catalog. Results from extensive experiments to test the algorithms, on the basis of error analysis and space requirements, are given to guide DBMS implementors.
Structure and Luminescence of Ce-doped Lu2SiO5 Nanophosphor

Nanophosphors correspond to nanostructured inorganic insulator materials that emit light under particle or electromagnetic radiation excitation. In this work we investigate the structure and luminescent properties of Ce-doped Lu2SiO5 (LSO) nanophosphors prepared by solution combustion synthesis with the Ce content 0.1 to 12 at. %. Samples were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), line scan electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS), xray diffraction (XRD), and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. Photoluminescence excitation and emission spectra are composed of two major bands centered at 360 and 430 nm, respectively. These results reveal a red-shift and enhanced Stokes shift for the nanophosphors when compared to bulk. Ce content was also found to affect photoluminescence emission intensity and fluorescent lifetime. The nanophosphor concentration quenching curve presents a broad maximum centered at 1 at.%. Lifetime measurements show a continuous decrease from 34 to 21 ns as Ce content is increased.
Follow up and surveillance of the patient with lung cancer: what do you do after surgery?

Abstract: Of the new cases of lung cancer discovered each year, it has been estimated that 50–55% have localized disease and are thus candidates for potentially curative treatment. Some of these patients will refuse surgery or will have co-morbidities that preclude surgery. The remainder will undergo an attempted curative resection. A common clinical question arises in these patients: how should this patient be followed after surgery? Post-treatment surveillance is indicated to monitor for recurrence of the original tumor and for the development of a metachronous tumor. The appropriate protocol is controversial and current recommendations are primarily expert opinion or consensus-based and await further study. A suggested clinically reasonable and cost-effective surveillance approach would include a history, physical examination and an imaging study (either chest radiograph or CT) every 6 months for 2 years and then annually. Patients should be counselled on symptom recognition and advised to contact their physician should such symptoms appear.
Nd:YAG and Ruby Based Lidar Systems for Remote Sensing of Atmospheric Aerosols

The investigation of atmospheric aerosols and their properties have become an increasingly active research area in recent years. This activity is a result of the realization of the importance of aerosols in such diverse areas as environment, climate, infrared backscattering, and cloud formation. In support of this research, lidar has proven itself to be a very valuable and versatile remote sensing technique. NASA-Langley has been involved with the development and application of lidar for atmospheric aerosol measurements since 1964. Over the years several lidars have been developed in the Aerosol Research Branch of Langley, leading to the current operational systems which include the ground based 48-Inch Mobile Lidar and a 14-inch airborne system. These lidar systems have been used primarily for stratospheric measurements, although recently, there has been increased activity in the tropo-spheric region. An 8-inch downlooking airborne lidar has also been developed, and is currently being used to support these measurements.
Roles of Clinician, Patient, and Community Characteristics in the Management of Pediatric Upper Respiratory Tract Infections.

PURPOSE Prior studies have evaluated factors predictive of inappropriate antibiotic prescription for upper respiratory tract infections (URIs). Community factors, however, have not been examined. The aim of this study was to evaluate the roles of patient, clinician, and community factors in predicting appropriate management of URIs in children. METHODS We used a novel database exchange, linking electronic health record data with community statistics, to identify all patients aged 3 months to 18 years in whom URI was diagnosed in the period from 2007 to 2012. We followed the Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS) quality measurement titled “Appropriate treatment for children with upper respiratory infection” to determine the rate of appropriate management of URIs. We then stratified data across individual and community characteristics and used multiple logistic regression modeling to identify variables that independently predicted antibiotic prescription. RESULTS Of 20,581 patients, the overall rate for appropriate management for URI was 93.5%. Family medicine clinicians (AOR = 1.5; 95% CI 1.31, 1.71; reference = pediatric clinicians), urgent care clinicians (AOR = 2.23; 95% CI 1.93, 2.57; reference = pediatric clinicians), patients aged 12 to 18 years (AOR = 1.44; 95% CI 1.25, 1.67; reference = age 3 months to 4 years), and patients of white race/ ethnicity (AOR = 1.83; 95% CI 1.41, 2.37; reference = black non-Hispanic) were independently predictive of antibiotic prescription. No community factors were independently predictive of antibiotic prescription. CONCLUSIONS Results correlate with prior studies in which non-pediatric clinicians and white race/ethnicity were predictive of antibiotic prescription, while association with older patient age has not been previously reported. Findings illustrate the promise of linking electronic health records with community data to evaluate health care disparities.
Computer Based Guidance in the Modern Operating Room: A Historical Perspective

The past few decades have seen the introduction of many different and innovative approaches aimed at enhancing surgical technique. As microprocessors have decreased in size and increased in processing power, more sophisticated systems have been developed. Some systems have attempted to provide enhanced instrument control while others have attempted to provide tools for surgical guidance. These systems include robotics, image enhancements, and frame-based and frameless guidance procedures. In almost every case the system's design goals were achieved and surgical outcomes were enhanced, yet a vast majority of today's surgical procedures are conducted without the aid of these advances. As new tools are developed and existing tools refined, special attention to the systems interface and integration into the operating room environment will be required before increased utilization of these technologies can be realized.
Improving flavor symmetry in the Kogut-Susskind hadron spectrum

We study the effect of modifying the coupling of Kogut-Susskind quarks to the gauge field by replacing the link matrix in the quark action by a ``fat link,'' or sum of link plus three-link paths. Flavor symmetry breaking, determined by the mass difference between the Goldstone and non-Goldstone local pions, is reduced by approximately a factor of 2 by this modification.
The rise of deferred tax assets in Japan: The role of deferred tax accounting in the Japanese banking crisis

Abstract This paper provides evidence on the role of deferred taxes in the recent financial crisis among Japanese banks. Upon adoption of deferred tax accounting in FY1998, the major Japanese banks recognized net deferred tax assets of ¥6.6 trillion ($55 billion). Without these assets, the banks would have been insolvent. The evidence supports the conclusion that Japanese regulators used deferred tax accounting as part of a regulatory forbearance strategy, and that bank managers used these assets to bolster their banks’ regulatory capital. The results show how ostensibly similar accounting rules can be implemented very differently, and so have implications for IFRS.
Segmentation methods for visual tracking of deep-ocean jellyfish using a conventional camera

This paper presents a vision algorithm that enables automated jellyfish tracking using remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) or autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). The discussion focuses on algorithm design. The introduction provides a novel performance-assessment tool, called segmentation efficiency, which aids in matching potential vision algorithms to the jelly-tracking task. This general-purpose tool evaluates the inherent applicability of various algorithms to particular tracking applications. This tool is applied to the problem of tracking transparent jellyfish under uneven time-varying illumination in particle-filled scenes. The result is the selection of a fixed-gradient threshold-based vision algorithm. This approach, implemented as part of a pilot aid for the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute's ROV Ventana, has demonstrated automated jelly tracking for as long as 89 min.
Troubleshooting sacral neuromodulation issues.

In the past decade, the use of sacral neuromodulation has increased exponentially. The introduction of the tined lead, the posterior location, and the smaller IPG has changed the frequency and types of complications. These facts explain the reduction of the revision and explantation rates in the most contemporary series, as compared with the earlier data. Infection, pain at the IPG site, and reduced clinical response with or without impedance abnormalities are now the most frequently reported complications. Although infection should be managed with explantation of the entire system, device interrogation should be part of the physician’s algorithm for managing patients with decreased sensation or new onset of pain, in order to check the integrity of the system. Patients who are not improved with new programs will most likely need surgical revision. The implanting physician should be aware of the ways to evaluate and manage complications and suboptimal responses, to appropriately troubleshoot patients, and to reduce the need for surgical revision.
Dynamic Regulation of Sodium/Calcium Exchange Function in Human Heart Failure

Background— Sarcolemmal Na/Ca exchange (NCX) regulates cardiac Ca and contractility. NCX function during the cardiac cycle is determined by intracellular [Ca] and [Na] ([Ca]i, and [Na]i) and membrane potential (Em), which all change in human heart failure (HF). Therefore, changes in NCX function may contribute to abnormal Ca regulation in human HF. Methods and Results— We assessed the cellular bases of differences in NCX function in ventricular myocytes from failing (F) and nonfailing (NF) human hearts. Allosteric activation of NCX by [Ca]i was comparable in F and NF myocytes (K1/2=150±31 nmol/L, n=7). The steady-state relation between [Ca]i and NCX current (INCX) was used to infer the local submembrane [Ca]i ([Ca]sm) that is sensed by NCX dynamically during the action potential (AP) and Ca transient (37°C). This involved “tail” INCX measurement during abrupt repolarization of APs and Ca transients, where peak inward INCX indicates [Ca]sm. This allows inference of the direction of Ca transport by the NCX ...
Integrating Structure Control over Multiple Length Scales in Porous High Temperature Ceramics with Functional Platinum Nanoparticles

High temperature ceramics with porosity on multiple length scales offer great promise in high temperature catalytic applications for their high surface area and low flow resistance in combination with thermal and chemical stability. We have developed a bottom-up approach to functional, porous, high-temperature ceramics structured on eight distinct length scales integrating functional Pt nanoparticles from the near-atomic to the macroscopic level. Structuring is achieved through a combination of micromolding and multicomponent colloidal self-assembly. The resulting template is filled with a solution containing a solvent, a block copolymer, a ceramic precursor, and a nanoparticle catalyst precursor as well as a radical initiator. Heat treatment results in three-dimensionally interconnected, high-temperature ceramic materials functionalized with well-dispersed 1-2 nm Pt catalyst nanoparticles and very high porosity.
The role of human papillomavirus in screening for cervical cancer.

PURPOSE To review the options for effectively screening for cervical cancer, including human papilloma virus (HPV) identification, cytologic screening, colposcopy, or a combination approach. Current pathophysiology, diagnostic criteria, treatment approaches, and patient preparation and education related to cervical cancer screening and prevention are also included. DATA SOURCES Comprehensive review of current literature, including research and review articles. CONCLUSION Because the Papanicolau (Pap) smear is a screening tool, not a diagnostic tool, further studies must be done to identify the actual nature of discovered abnormalities. Of particular concern is the classification of atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS), which may simply indicate inflammation, or may be the first indicator of serious pathology. Following ASCUS Pap smears with HPV screening will allow for a clarification of the best approach to treatment. A screening algorithm supported by a review of the literature is proposed. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Cervical cancer is a preventable disease caused by certain forms of HPV. Current screening protocols are based on the use of the Pap smear; and in areas where this test is routine and available, morbidity and mortality rates have dropped dramatically. Many women throughout the world and in underserved regions of the U. S. do not have adequate access to routine screening with Pap smear technology. As long as women continue to die needlessly of cervical cancer, more comprehensive and accessible screening methods must be explored. (Cutting the unnecessary worldwide and in the U. S.)
In-silico Models for Capturing the Static and Dynamic Characteristics of Robustness within Complex Networks

DISSERTATION IN-SILICO MODELS FOR CAPTURING THE STATIC AND DYNAMIC CHARACTERISTICS OF ROBUSTNESS WITHIN COMPLEX NETWORKS By Bhanu Kamapantula A Dissertation submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy at Virginia Commonwealth University. Virginia Commonwealth University, 2015. Director: Dissertation Dr. Preetam Ghosh, Associate Professor, Department of Computer Science Understanding the role of structural patterns within complex networks is essential to establish the governing principles of such networks. Social networks, biological networks, technological networks etc. can be considered as complex networks where information processing and transport plays a central role. Complexity in these networks can be due to abstraction, scale, functionality and structure. Depending on the abstraction each of these can be categorized further. Gene regulatory networks are one such category of biological networks. Gene regulatory networks (GRNs) are assumed to be robust under internal and external perturbations. Network motifs such as feed-forward loop motif and bifan motif are believed to play a central role functionally in retaining GRN behavior under lossy conditions. While the role of static characteristics like average shortest path, density, degree centrality among other topological features is well documented by the research community, the structural role of motifs and their dynamic characteristics are not xiii well understood. Wireless sensor networks in the last decade were intensively studied using network simulators. Can we use in-silico experiments to understand biological network topologies better? Does the structure of these motifs have any role to play in ensuring robust information transport in such networks? How do their static and dynamic roles differ? To understand these questions, we use in-silico network models to capture the dynamic characteristics of complex network topologies. Developing these models involve network mapping, sink selection strategies and identifying metrics to capture robust system behavior. Further, I studied the dynamic aspect of network characteristics using variation in network information flow under perturbations defined by lossy conditions and channel capacity. We use machine learning techniques to identify significant features that contribute to robust network performance. Our work demonstrates that although the structural role of feed-forward loop motif in signal transduction within GRNs is minimal, these motifs stand out under heavy perturbations.
Epidemiology of Traumatic Adrenal Injuries Requiring Surgery

Objective To analyze adrenal injuries using the National Trauma Data Bank. Adrenal trauma is rare and current literature is lacking in data from large case series. Methods A retrospective analysis of the National Trauma Data Bank from the years 2007-2011 was performed. Patient demographics, Injury Severity Score (ISS), mechanism of injury, type of trauma, associated injuries, and development of shock were assessed. Multivariable models were used to determine association with outcomes, such as characterization of injury, need for adrenalectomy, intensive care unit admission, and death. Results Of the 1,766,606 trauma cases recorded, 7791 involved 1 or both adrenal glands (0.44%). Common associated injuries were to the ribs (50.9%), thorax (50.0%), and liver (41.6%). Eighty adrenal injuries required surgery (80/7791, 1.0%), none of which were isolated adrenal injuries (0/120, P = .63). Higher ISS ( P = .009), Black race ( P = .031), penetrating injury ( P P P = .018) were associated with need for adrenalectomy. No isolated adrenal injuries were associated with death (12% vs 0%, P P P P = .009), penetrating injuries ( P P = .008), peripheral vasculature ( P P = .029), brain/spinal cord ( P P = .005) were associated with mortality. Conclusions Adrenal injuries are rare, comprising 0.44% of recorded traumatic injuries. Isolated adrenal injuries were not fatal and did not require surgery, and thus should be managed conservatively. Detection of adrenal injury in polytrauma patients is key, particularly penetrating trauma and concurrent splenic and/or intestinal injuries, as these patients are more likely to require adrenalectomy.
Changes in stimulus preference as a function of exposure in an extra-test situation

Rats were given exposure in individual boxes to either horizontal stripes, vertical stripes, a mixture of horizontal and vertical stripes, or no stripes in order to determine whether such exposure would affect preference in a stimulus choice situation. Exposure to a particular stimulus pattern decreased the preference for a compartment whose walls were lined with it. Results were interpreted as consistent with a stimulus satiation hypothesis.
Public parks and wellbeing in urban areas of the United States

Sustainable development efforts in urban areas often focus on understanding and managing factors that influence all aspects of health and wellbeing. Research has shown that public parks and green space provide a variety of physical, psychological, and social benefits to urban residents, but few studies have examined the influence of parks on comprehensive measures of subjective wellbeing at the city level. Using 2014 data from 44 U.S. cities, we evaluated the relationship between urban park quantity, quality, and accessibility and aggregate self-reported scores on the Gallup-Healthways Wellbeing Index (WBI), which considers five different domains of wellbeing (e.g., physical, community, social, financial, and purpose). In addition to park-related variables, our best-fitting OLS regression models selected using an information theory approach controlled for a variety of other typical geographic and socio-demographic correlates of wellbeing. Park quantity (measured as the percentage of city area covered by public parks) was among the strongest predictors of overall wellbeing, and the strength of this relationship appeared to be driven by parks’ contributions to physical and community wellbeing. Park quality (measured as per capita spending on parks) and accessibility (measured as the overall percentage of a city’s population within ½ mile of parks) were also positively associated with wellbeing, though these relationships were not significant. Results suggest that expansive park networks are linked to multiple aspects of health and wellbeing in cities and positively impact urban quality of life.
Comparative Studies of Urban Fly Populations in Arizona, Kansas, Michigan, New York, and West Virginia

For the purpose of determining the possible relationship of flies to the transmission of poliomyelitis, an investigative program was initiated in 1948 at 5 cities: Phoenix, Arizona; Topeka, Kansas; Charleston, West Virginia; Muskegon, Michigan; and Troy, New York. To measure the effectiveness of the control operations in the aforementioned cities, 5 nearby towns were selected to serve as comparison areas. These untreated cities were: Mesa-Tempe,[1][1] Arizona; Lawrence, Kansas; Dunbar-St. Albans,[1][1] West Virginia; Grand Haven, Michigan; and Cohoes, New York (Figure 1). As an essential part of the fly appraisal studies at each project, fly trapping surveys were conducted in both treated and untreated cities. However, since the effect of the intensive application of insecticides in the treated cities upon the fly population varied in the different municipalities, this paper will describe only the trap data procured in the untreated cities during 1949 and 1950. Because of the voluminous amount of material available, further reduction will be effected by confining the discussion to the 10 related species of major importance: Musca domestica, Phaenicia sericata, Phaenicia pallescens, Phaenicia caeruleiviridis, Phormia regina, Ophyra leucostoma, Ophyra aenescens, Muscina stabulans, Muscina assimilis , and Callitroga macellaria . The findings from the treated cities and with reference to the other species will be treated in a subsequent paper. Most of the trap data which are available on adult fly populations and the seasonal prevalence of individual species have been related to those blow flies which produce parasitic myiasis in domestic animals. As the majority of this work has been limited to rural areas, relatively little information is available on the abundance, distribution, and seasonal incidence of those species which commonly form fly populations of urban areas. The principal studies of this nature are those reported by Power et al. (1943) and Power and Melnick (1945), which describe work in New Haven, Connecticut, and the 2-year survey conducted at Madison, Wisconsin, by Dicke and Eastwood (1952).[2][2] [1]: #fn-1 [2]: #fn-2
Colloquium: Biophysical principles of undulatory self-propulsion in granular media

Biological locomotion, movement within environments through self-deformation, encompasses a range of time and length scales in an organism. These include the electrophysiology of the nervous system, the dynamics of muscle activation, the mechanics of the skeletal system, and the interaction mechanics of such structures within natural environments like water, air, sand, and mud. Unlike the many studies of cellular and molecular scale biophysical processes, movement of entire organisms (like flies, lizards, and snakes) is less explored. Further, while movement in fluids like air and water is also well studied, little is known in detail of the mechanics that organisms use to move on and within flowable terrestrial materials such as granular media, ensembles of small particles that collectively display solid, fluid, and gaslike behaviors. This Colloquium reviews recent progress to understand principles of biomechanics and granular physics responsible for locomotion of the sandfish, a small desert-dwelling lizard that ``swims'' within sand using undulation of its body. Kinematic and muscle activity measurements of sand swimming using high speed x-ray imaging and electromyography are discussed. This locomotion problem poses an interesting challenge: namely, that equations that govern the interaction of the lizard with its environment do not yet exist. Therefore, complementary modeling approaches are also described: resistive force theory for granular media, multiparticle simulation modeling, and robotic physical modeling. The models reproduce biomechanical and neuromechanical aspects of sand swimming and give insight into how effective locomotion arises from the coupling of the body movement and flow of the granular medium. The argument is given that biophysical study of movement provides exciting opportunities to investigate emergent aspects of living systems that might not depend sensitively on biological details.