cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Investigating the 'bath salt' panic: the rarity of synthetic cathinone use among students in the United States.

Introduction and Aims Until recently, synthetic cathinones marketed as ‘bath salts’ were legally sold at convenience stores and online in the USA. Media reports initiated concerns of a growing ‘bath salt’ epidemic. Despite media attention and the recent legal action banning synthetic cathinones, little is known about its prevalence or users. Design and Methods A self-report survey was administered to 2349 students in 40 randomly selected courses at a large university in the Southeastern United States. The resulting sample was 51.6% female, 68.9% white, 24.4% black, 2.8% Hispanic and 4.0% other races, with a mean age of 20.06 years and median family income of $75 000–99 999. Results Only 25 (1.07%) of the students reported using synthetic cathinones at least once. Synthetic cathinone use was found to be more common among men (1.68% vs. 0.50% of women, P = 0.005), Hispanics (4.7%) and Native Americans (4.3% vs. 0.89% of whites and 0.72% of blacks, P = 0.002), and student athletes (4.0% vs. 0.90% of non-athletes, P = 0.001), but in each of these groups, synthetic cathinones were used more rarely than marijuana (58.14%, P < 0.001), cocaine (9.08%, P < 0.001), Salvia divinorum (7.89%, P < 0.001), synthetic cannabinoids (14.28%, P < 0.001), methamphetamines (1.92%, P = 0.002), 3,4-methylenedioxy-N-methylamphetamine (MDMA) (12.54%, P < 0.001) and several other drugs and pharmaceuticals. Discussion and Conclusions ‘Bath salts’ have received a great deal of media attention in the USA, yet the prevalence of synthetic cathinone use among our sample was extremely rare. We suggest that the media attention focusing on synthetic cathinone use as a growing epidemic may be largely misplaced. [Stogner JM, & Miller BL. Investigating the ‘bath salt’ panic: The rarity of synthetic cathinone use among students in the USA. Drug Alcohol Rev 2013;32:545–549
A Comparison of Some Derivatives of Primary Amines for Gas Chromatography Using Electron Capture Detection

Abstract Thirteen derivatives of phenethylamine were prepared. The sensitivities of flame ionization and electron capture detectors to these compounds and the original amine were determined. All compounds showed approximately the same sensitivity of detection with a flame ionization detector, but with an electron capture detector there was a 2 × 105 difference in sensitivity of detection between the derivatives showing the greatest and the least sensitivity. The derivative with the greatest sensitivity of detection was the pentafluorobenzaldehyde-amine condensation product and amounts of the amine down to 10 picograms could easily be quantified.
DNA end resection by Dna2-Sgs1-RPA and its stimulation by Top3-Rmi1 and Mre11-Rad50-Xrs2

The repair of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) by homologous recombination requires processing of broken ends. For repair to start, the DSB must first be resected to generate a 3'-single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) overhang, which becomes a substrate for the DNA strand exchange protein, Rad51 (ref. 1). Genetic studies have implicated a multitude of proteins in the process, including helicases, nucleases and topoisomerases. Here we biochemically reconstitute elements of the resection process and reveal that it requires the nuclease Dna2, the RecQ-family helicase Sgs1 and the ssDNA-binding protein replication protein-A (RPA). We establish that Dna2, Sgs1 and RPA constitute a minimal protein complex capable of DNA resection in vitro. Sgs1 helicase unwinds the DNA to produce an intermediate that is digested by Dna2, and RPA stimulates DNA unwinding by Sgs1 in a species-specific manner. Interestingly, RPA is also required both to direct Dna2 nucleolytic activity to the 5'-terminated strand of the DNA break and to inhibit 3' to 5' degradation by Dna2, actions that generate and protect the 3'-ssDNA overhang, respectively. In addition to this core machinery, we establish that both the topoisomerase 3 (Top3) and Rmi1 complex and the Mre11-Rad50-Xrs2 complex (MRX) have important roles as stimulatory components. Stimulation of end resection by the Top3-Rmi1 heterodimer and the MRX proteins is by complex formation with Sgs1 (refs 5, 6), which unexpectedly stimulates DNA unwinding. We suggest that Top3-Rmi1 and MRX are important for recruitment of the Sgs1-Dna2 complex to DSBs. Our experiments provide a mechanistic framework for understanding the initial steps of recombinational DNA repair in eukaryotes.
Optimal subsampling of circularly bandlimited images

In this paper, we consider the problem of optimal subsampling of circularly bandlimited images. We show that the two facets of this problem can be formulated as constrained sphere packings, and we describe the algorithm that may be used to solve them. We also compare the resulting subsampling patterns to the more conventional rectangular subsampling and illustrate the potential savings in subsampling density.
Social skills training, atypical neuroleptics and treatment-refractory psychosis

The advent of novel, powerful antipsychotic medications has had both beneficial and potentially deleterious effects for patients with previously refractory psychoses. Some authors have described medication non-compliance, substance abuse, depression and suicidality in response to rapid clearing of psychosis from these medications. However, others have reported beneficial effects from the combination of effective neuroleptics and various psychosocial rehabilitation interventions, including the Social & Independent Living Skills module series. The Massachusetts Mental Health Center began utilizing the behaviorally oriented modules on a unit for treatment-refractory psychotic individuals before the advent of clozapine. The use of clozapine appeared to facilitate the acquisition of the skills taught in the module series. Because of widespread acceptance by patients and staff, the use of the modules spread and was maintained at the Mental Health Center even after the unit on which they were originally utilized...
Regularization enhanced fast convergence for POR-based multiuser detection

Recently, a power of R (POR) technique that is originated from a minimum variance method is proposed for multiuser detection in code division multiple access (CDMA) systems. It raises the power of an inversed data covariance matrix in the MV cost function to a positive integer m to approximate the noise subspace component in order to bridge a gap between the MV method and a widely studied subspace method. The POR method asymptotically converges to the subspace one and also shows more robust performance in practical conditions with finite noisy data record. However, the convergence rate depends on m and signal to noise ratio (SNR). In particular, a wide gap is observed in the low SNR region for a small or moderate m. This work proposes a regularized POR (termed RPOR) technique by introducing a regularization parameter to the POR cost function for fast convergence and better detection performance for low SNR CDMA systems. The parameter aims to compensate the noise effect and concurrently enhance the interference mitigation capability of the receiver.
Design and development of the first entirely paper-based wireless sensor module

In this paper, the feasibility of inkjet printing process for the development of a ldquoSystem-on-Paperrdquo RF system was demonstrated for the first time. The process of designing a wireless transmitting sensor module entirely on paper was outlined and its performance was measured. The measured sensor results show good agreement with the manufacturerpsilas specs. The relatively higher heat insulation of paper and silver ink to temperature changes compared to other conductors and packaging materials makes it an ideal substrate for housing sensors, as well as numerous ldquogreenrdquo RF modules.
Developing Scientific Talent in Students With Special Needs: An Alternative Model for Identification, Curriculum, and Assessment

Can students with learning and attention difficulties in school actually be talented scientists in disguise? This article presents a model that was highly successful in identifying and developing scientific talent in these special students. The factors that contributed to the success of the model were the following: The emphasis was on helping students become creative producers. The model also featured a strong mentoring component that included role-modeling and problem solving within specific scientific domains and provided students with authentic, discovery-based, experiential, advanced level subject matter of the domain. Finally, the alternate means of assessing student achievement focused on a student’s performance and the product he or she created, rather than on test scores. Students demonstrated their ability to be competitive, collaborative, and to apply problem-solving skills. These performances resulted in the students’ shifting their identity from loser to winner.
Ethambutol/Linezolid Toxic Optic Neuropathy.

Purpose To report a rare toxic optic neuropathy after long-term use of two medications: ethambutol and linezolid. Case report A 65-year-old man presented to the Miami Veterans Affairs Medical Center in December 2014 for evaluation of progressive vision decrease in both eyes. The patient presented with best-corrected visual acuities of 20/400 in the right eye and counting fingers at 5 feet in the left eye. Color vision was significantly reduced in both eyes. Visual fields revealed a cecocentral defect in both eyes. His fundus and optic nerve examination was unremarkable. Because vision continued to decline after discontinuation of ethambutol, linezolid was also discontinued, after which vision, color vision, and visual fields improved. Because of these findings, the final diagnosis was toxic optic neuropathy. Final visual outcome was 20/30 in the right eye and 20/40 in the left eye. Conclusions Drug-associated toxic optic neuropathy is a rare but vision-threatening condition. Diagnosis is made based on an extensive case history and careful clinical examination. The examination findings include varying decrease in vision, normal pupils and extraocular muscles, and unremarkable fundoscopy, with the possibility of swollen optic discs in the acute stage of the optic neuropathy. Other important findings descriptive of toxic optic neuropathy include decreased color vision and cecocentral visual field defects. This case illustrates the importance of knowledge of all medications and/or substances a patient consumes that may cause a toxic reaction and discontinuing them immediately if the visual functions are worsening or not improving.
Cooperative binding of a complement component to antigen-antibody complexes. III. Complexes containing IgM antibodies.

Abstract The first component of guinea pig complement (Cl) 2 ) is bound in a cooperative manner to antigen-antibody complexes containing rabbit IgM antibodies, as was previously shown to be the case for IgG antibodies. The shape of the binding curves is consistent with an allosteric mechanism involving clusters of 10 interacting {ie151-1} binding sites. Similar results were obtained with IgM antibodies against an artificial hapten and against a natural constituent of the erythrocyte membrane.
Cellular mediators of nitrergic neurotransmission in GI smooth muscles: no easy answer

Gastrointestinal muscles receive both excitatory and inhibitory innervation, and both positive and negative influences impart important regulatory control of motility and transit. Twenty‐five years after nitric oxide (NO) was identified as a key neurotransmitter of enteric inhibitory motor neurons (Bult et al. 1990), the cells mediating nitrergic motor effects and the cellular mechanisms responsible for relaxation remain controversial. Three cell types found within GI muscles, i.e. smooth muscle cells (SMCs), interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) and PDGFRα+ cells, form an electrical syncytium (the SIP syncytium) that integrates intrinsic and regulatory inputs (Sanders et al. 2014). A recent paper in The Journal of Physiology by Lies and coworkers addresses the question of which cell types mediate nitrergic motor responses in the longitudinal muscle layer of the murine colon (Lies et al. 2015). The authors used cell‐specific, tamoxifen‐inducible expression of Cre recombinase (iCre) in SMCs or ICC bred to mice with floxed Gucy1b3 (Gucy1b3flox/flox) to control expression of β1 subunits of soluble guanylate cyclase (GC), an essential component of NO receptors. The rationale was that elimination of functional receptors in ICC or SMCs would reveal the relative importance of these cells in nitrergic responses.
Southern Chinch Bugs (Hemiptera: Blissidae) Increase Severity of Plant Disease in St. Augustinegrass

Abstract The southern chinch bug, Blissus insularis Barber, is the most damaging insect pest of St. Augustinegrass. Numerous studies have shown direct damage to the plant by chinch bugs. However, these studies did not determine if the insect may be causing indirect damage to the plant by making it more susceptible to disease. The study reported herein demonstrates that the fungal plant disease, gray leaf spot (Magnaporthe grisea [T.T. Hebert]), significantly increased in St. Augustinegrass after being infested with chinch bugs. Damage by the insect to other morphological and growth traits is also reported. This study emphasizes the complexity of southern chinch bug damage to St. Augustinegrass by direct damage and by indirect damage making the plant more susceptible to disease.
Stealth prefetching

Prefetching in shared-memory multiprocessor systems is an increasingly difficult problem. As system designs grow to incorporate larger numbers of faster processors, memory latency and interconnect traffic increase. While aggressive prefetching techniques can mitigate the increasing memory latency, they can harm performance by wasting precious interconnect bandwidth and prematurely accessing shared data, causing state downgrades at remote nodes that force later upgrades.This paper investigates Stealth Prefetching, a new technique that utilizes information from Coarse-Grain Coherence Tracking (CGCT) for prefetching data aggressively, stealthily, and efficiently in a broadcast-based shared-memory multiprocessor system. Stealth Prefetching utilizes CGCT to identify regions of memory that are not shared by other processors, aggressively fetches these lines from DRAM in open-page mode, and moves them close to the processor in anticipation of future references. Our analysis with commercial, scientific, and multiprogrammed workloads show that Stealth Prefetching provides an average speedup of 20% over an aggressive baseline system with conventional prefetching.
Serial proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy in lesions of Balò concentric sclerosis.

Objective: Balo concentric sclerosis is a rare demyelinating disorder. Serial proton magnetic resonance spectroscopic ( 1 H-MRS) studies were carried out to better understand the biochemical changes within concentric lesions. Materials and Methods: Five concentric lesions in four patients with Balo concentric sclerosis were chosen as the objects of serial observation. They included two early acute lesions (showing as concentric ring enhancement on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) after gadolinium administration), two late acute lesions (showing as marginal enhancement on MRI), and one early subacute lesion (showing as edematous concentric lesions without enhancement on MRI). The duration of follow-up ranged from 2-23 months (mean 10 months). A total of 20 1 H-MRS studies were performed. On each 'H-MRS study, short-echo (30 ms) and long-echo (136 ms) spectra were obtained. The peaks of N-acetyl-asparate (NAA), choline-containing compounds (Cho), creatine and phosphocreatine (Cr), lactate, and mobile lipid were observed and compared. Results: Generally, a decrease of NAA/Cr ratio and an increase of Cho/Cr ratio were seen on all the spectra. Observing longitudinally, a trend of decreasing NAA/Cr ratio first and then partially recovering later was noted. The lowest level of NAA/Cr ratio was noted at the late acute stage or early subacute stage. The Cho/Cr ratio and amplitude of the lactate peak showed a similar trend as that of NAA/Cr, but in an opposite direction. It was rising first and descending later. The highest levels of Cho/Cr ratio and lactate peak were also observed at the late acute or early subacute stage. In addition, lactate peaks could be detected as long as 7 months after onset of symptoms. Lipid metabolite (two broad peaks at 0.9-1.5 ppm) was seen at the initial study of each group, but fluctuated in size on follow-up. Conclusion: The characteristic biochemical changes of concentric sclerosis were a decreased NAA/Cr ratio, an increased Cho/Cr ratio, two broad peaks at 0.9-1.5 ppm, lactate production, and a reversible NAA/Cr ratio on follow-up. The serial 'H-MRS studies revealed a strong biochemical association between NAA, Cho, and lactate, which may be caused by the same pathogenetic process of demyelination and inflammatory cellular infiltration. The specificity of the serial changes may provide information about the stage of the concentric lesion and perhaps aid in monitoring progression of concentric lesions and evaluating therapy.
Metal-Halide Lamp Life and Lumen Depreciation: A Comparison of Two, 400 Watt Discharge Lamp Ballasting Systems

AbstractThe two primary performance metrics of any lamp-ballast system are lamp life and lumen depreciation. Lamp life for a particular lighting application is easily quantifiable, relying only upon the retention of maintenance records. However, the study of lamp lumen depreciation is more challenging in that lamps must be removed from installation throughout their life-cycle to allow for an accurate measurement of luminous output. In May of 1998 the lighting of the Rector Field House, located on the campus of Virginia Tech, was replaced. This upgrade was performed to not only improve lighting quality within the facility, but to also study the effects of ballast type upon the two key performance metrics, lamp life and lumen maintenance. Results of this evaluation, which concluded in May of 2002, are presented accompanied by a discussion of the factors affecting the results.
Analysis of Influenza Surveillance in Changsha from 2005 to 2009

Objective To find out the discipline of influenza activity according to the four-year analyses of influenza surveillance data in Changsha,and to provide some scientific references for controlling influenza. Methods The epidemiological and pathogenic data of influenza surveillance in Changsha from October,2005 to September,2009 were collected to analyze the regularity trend of ILI%(the percentage of influenza like illness in the outpatients) and the activity discipline of each influenza virus type. Results The level of influenza ILI% in Changsha was increasing yearly from 2006,and there were 2 peaks in each year(one from January to March,the other from July to September).During the period of Oct,2005 to Mar,2009,the dominant virus strains in Changsha were seasonal influenza H1N1 and H3N2 types,which dominated alternately.From April to September,2009,the detecting rate of A H1N1 influenza virus was gradually increasing,which became the dominant bacterial strain. Conclusions The discipline of influenza activity in Changsha is significant,and it shows seasonal nature and periodicity.The vary trend of ILI% can explain the activities of local influenza much better.The level of ILI% is on its two fastigiums while the activities of influenza virus are just on theirs.The A H1N1 influenza has much more influence to seasonal influenza activities,and the prevention and control emphasis of A H1N1 influenza should be enhanced hereafter.
Rapid cooling contractures as an index of sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium content in rabbit ventricular myocytes.

Rapid cooling contractures (RCCs) were used to assess changes in sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca content in both isolated rabbit ventricular myocytes and multicellular preparations. The main difference observed between these preparations was the magnitude of RCCs relative to twitches, apparently due to differences in measured parameters, i.e., unloaded shortening vs. isometric tension. When multicellular preparations were unloaded, RCC shortening was similar to that observed in myocytes. RCC magnitude decreased as the time between the last electrical stimulation and the RCC was increased (rest decay). RCC rest decay closely paralleled that of postrest twitches, suggesting that SR Ca loss is responsible for this process. Paired RCC experiments were used to investigate RCC relaxation and rest decay. When a second RCC (RCC2) was induced immediately after the first (RCC1), a large contracture was still observed (RCC2/RCC1 x 100 = 77.8 +/- 7.3%, mean +/- SD), indicating that the SR resequestered the majority of Ca on rewarming. This fraction was increased (to 92.9 +/- 5.5%) if Na and Ca-free solution was used during RCCs and rewarming, indicating that Na-Ca exchange also contributes to RCC relaxation. Increasing the interval between paired RCCs led to a decrease in RCC2, analogous to rest decay. This rest decay was abolished by inhibiting Na-Ca exchange, indicating that SR Ca loss during rest is mediated primarily by this process. RCCs were abolished by 10 mM caffeine. Ryanodine (1 microM) greatly accelerated RCC rest decay but had less effect on RCCs generated immediately after a train of stimulation. This accelerated rest decay was also dependent on Na-Ca exchange.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Celebrating the Killing of a Liable Person

To conclude the book, this chapter examines the controversy over the celebrations that broke out in the United States in the wake of the announcement of bin Laden’s death. I make a distinction between celebrating a person’s death itself as opposed to celebrating one’s relief that an unjust threat has been thwarted. I offer a case to show that the two types of celebrating may often intermingle and that one’s motivation behind any given celebration is what is morally relevant. I conclude with a brief discussion of the actors themselves who carried out the killing.
Grounding line variability and subglacial lake drainage on Pine Island Glacier, Antarctica

We produced a 6 year time series of differential tidal displacement for Pine Island Ice Shelf, Antarctica, using speckle-tracking methods applied to fine-resolution TerraSAR-X data. These results reveal that the main grounding line has maintained a relatively steady position over the last 6 years, following the speedup that terminated in ~2009. In the middle of the shelf, there are grounded spots that migrate downstream over the 6 year record. Examination of high-resolution digital elevation models reveals that these grounded spots form where deep keels (thickness anomalies) advect over an approximately flow-parallel bathymetric high, maintaining intermittent contact with the bed. These data sets also reveal several subsidence and uplift events associated with subglacial lake drainages in the fast-flowing region above the grounding line. Although these drainages approximately double the rate of subglacial water flow over periods of a few weeks, they have no discernible effect on horizontal flow speed.
Generation of Pig Airways using Rules Developed from the Measurements of Physical Airways.

Background: A method for generating bronchial tree would be helpful when constructing models of the tree for benchtop experiments as well as for numerical modeling of flow or sound propagation in the airways. Early studies documented the geometric details of the human airways that were used to develop methods for generating human airway tree. However, methods for generating animal airway tree are scarcer. Earlier studies suggested that the morphology of animal airways can be significantly different from that of humans. Hence, using algorithms for the human airways may not be accurate in generating models of animal airway geometry. Objective: The objective of this study is to develop an algorithm for generating pig airway tree based on the geometric details extracted from the physical measurements. Methods: In the current study, measured values of branch diameters, lengths and bifurcation angles and rotation of bifurcating planes were used to develop an algorithm that is capable of generating a realistic pig airway tree. Results: The generation relations between parent and daughter branches were found to follow certain trends. The diameters and the length of different branches were dependent on airway generations while the bifurcation angles were primarily dependent on bifurcation plane rotations. These relations were sufficient to develop rules for generating a model of the pig large airways. Conclusion: The results suggested that the airway tree generated from the algorithm can provide an approximate geometric model of pig airways for computational and benchtop studies.
By their own devices: invasive Argentine ants have shifted diet without clear aid from symbiotic microbes

The functions and compositions of symbiotic bacterial communities often correlate with host ecology. Yet cause-and-effect relationships, and the order of symbiont versus host change, remain unclear in the face of ancient symbioses and conserved host ecology. Several groups of ants exemplify this challenge, as their low-nitrogen diets and specialized symbioses appear conserved and ancient. To address whether nitrogen-provisioning symbionts might be important in the early stages of ant trophic shifts we studied bacteria from the Argentine ant, Linepithema humile—an invasive species that has transitioned toward greater consumption of sugar-rich, nitrogen-poor foods in parts of its introduced range. Bacteria were present at low densities in most L. humile workers, and among those yielding quality 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing data we found just three symbionts to be common and dominant. Two, a Lactobacillus and an Acetobacteriaceae species, were shared between native and introduced populations. The other, a Rickettsia, was found only in two introduced supercolonies. Across an eight-year period of trophic reduction in one introduced population, we found no change in symbionts, arguing against a relationship between natural dietary change and microbiome composition. Overall our findings thus argue against major changes in symbiotic bacteria in association with the invasion and trophic shift of L. humile. In addition, genome content from close relatives of the identified symbionts suggest that just one can synthesize most essential amino acids; this bacterium was only modestly abundant in introduced populations, providing little support for a major role of nitrogen-provisioning symbioses in Argentine ant's dietary shift. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Alternative narrative of Palestinian resistance flips the script on ways of seeing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict

Jaber Barakat Abu Fekheideh was harvesting olives on his family’s land in the village of al-Janiya near Ramallah in the central West Bank with his brother Hassan and cousin Muhammad in early Novemb...
Optimization of the 11α-hydroxylation of steroid DHEA by solvent-adapted Beauveria bassiana

To extend the use of Beauveria bassiana for commercial applications, the optimization of reaction conditions and accurate prediction of biotransformation products are necessary. This work enhances ...
Alliance-Building: Creating Synergies with Others

The financial meltdown of 2008 and the subsequent recession have created difficult economic circumstances, and many people could cope better if they knew how to manage their money more wisely. In research I have done on financial literacy, I have learned that too many people do not understand how budgeting should be done or how credit cards, mortgages, monthly payments, and compound interest really work.1 Without this knowledge, they make decisions that get them in over their heads in debt, becoming saddled with mortgages and car loans they can’t afford or student loans they can’t pay back. Many consumers just spend and spend some more, creating personal crises while also contributing to the creation of real estate bubbles, consumer credit bubbles, and student loan bubbles that can cause serious economic troubles if they burst.
Educator Perspectives on the Postsecondary Transition Difficulties of Students with Autism.

Addressing the challenges of adolescents and emerging adults with autism spectrum disorder is crucial to improving the outcomes of these students in the postsecondary setting. Although secondary and postsecondary educators and staff are critical to helping these students access services, there has been little investigation into the perspectives of this stakeholder group, with respect to the needs of postsecondary students with autism spectrum disorder. A series of focus groups was conducted with secondary and postsecondary educators to understand educator perspectives related to the challenges faced by postsecondary students with autism spectrum disorder. Competence, autonomy and independence, and the development and sustainment of interpersonal relationships emerged as primary areas of difficulty and corresponding need. Results suggest that targeted interventions addressing these areas should be implemented, prior to and during enrollment in a postsecondary setting, to facilitate transition in a comprehensive manner.
Secondary Gains: Advances in Neurotrauma Management

Neurotrauma is a leading cause of death and is associated with many secondary injuries. A balance of mean arterial pressure (MAP) and intracranial pressure (ICP) is required to ensure adequate cerebral blood flow and cerebral perfusion pressure. Evaluation and management in the emergency department entails initial stabilization and resuscitation while assessing neurologic status. ICP management follows a tiered approach. Intubation requires consideration of preoxygenation, head of bed elevation, first pass success, and adequate analgesia and sedation. Early consultation with neurosurgery is needed for definitive therapy. Focused evaluation and management play a significant role in optimizing patient outcomes.
Abstract 209: Association Between Medicare High Risk Criteria and Long Outcomes Following Carotid Revascularization Procedures

Background: Centers of Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has defined a set of high-risk criteria to help define patients who would likely benefit from CAS over CEA. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing CAS vs. CEA, and whether those outcomes vary based on the CMS high-risk criteria. Methods: All patients undergoing CAS or CEA recorded in the Vascular Quality Initiative database (2013-2016) were included. Patients were stratified as being normal-risk (Nr) or high-risk (Hr) for undergoing CEA based on published CMS criteria. 30-day and 2-year outcomes [stroke, myocardial infarction (MI), death] were compared for CAS vs. CEA in both the Nr and Hr groups using 1:1 coarsened exact matching and multivariable Cox proportional hazards modelling. Results: A total of 55,765 patients (CAS=8,538; CEA=47,227) underwent carotid revascularization during the study period. A significantly higher proportion of CAS were classified as being Hr (75.1% vs. 38.5%; P Conclusions: In this matched cohort of patients, CAS carries a persistently higher risk of stroke/death than CEA regardless of operative risk. However, the performance difference between the two procedures dissipates in the Hr patients. Thus, CAS utilization should be considered in this group.
Giant pulse phenomena in a high gain erbium doped fiber amplifier

High gain Erbium Doped Fiber Amplifiers (EDFAs), while revolutionizing optical communications, remain vulnerable to optical damage when unseeded, e.g. due to nonlinear effects that produce random pulses with high peak power, i.e. giant pulses. Giant pulses can damage the components in a high gain EDFA or external components and systems coupled to the EDFA. We explore the conditions under which a reflective, polarization-maintaining (PM), core-pumped high gain EDFA generates giant pulses, provide details on conditions under which normal pulses evolve into giant pulses, and provide results on the transient effects of giant pulses on amplifier's fused-fiber couplers, an effect which we call Fiber Overload Induced Leakage (FOIL). While FOIL's effect on fused-fiber couplers is temporary, its damage to forward pump lasers in a high gain EDFA can be permanent.
Sex: The End Is All You Need.

Summary Sex is rewarding. Out of the many steps needed for successful mating, from courtship through copulation, the ultimate ejaculatory step in male fruit flies has profound rewarding properties.
Improving police services: Evidence from the French Quarter Task Force

Abstract This study sheds light on the improvement of police services by examining the French Quarter Task Force (FQTF) – an anti-crime program in New Orleans' French Quarter. First, we provide new evidence that increasing police presence is effective in crime prevention. Our difference-in-differences estimates suggest that the FQTF, which increased police visibility in the French Quarter, reduced robberies, aggravated assaults, and thefts by 37.4%, 16.9%, and 13%, respectively. Second, our findings imply that the proper use of monitoring and incentive strategies has the potential to further improve police services. Exploiting the program's change in management, we find that providing officers with more monitoring and performance incentives led the FQTF to reduce robberies by 22.12 and aggravated assaults by 5.56 each quarter.
Non-Hermitian and Topological Electromagnetics: Synthetic Dimensions, and Robust Wireless Power Transfer

We discuss our recent works in non-hermitian and topological electromagnetics. We show that nonlinear parity-time symmetry system can be used to achieve robust wireless power transfer. We also consider topological effects in systems exhibiting synthetic dimensions, and in the scattering matrices of optical devices.
Deflections of Beams and Indeterminate Beam Analysis

The theory of the deflection of beams is well known, but little published information exists on the deflections of beams using graphical analysis. Calculating the deflections of the elastic curve of a beam is a necessary step in the analysis of indeterminate beams because the movement or the rotation at a redundant support must be calculated and eventually be set to zero through manipulation of the pole of the force diagram.
CHAPTER 10 – GaN and AlGaN Ultraviolet Detectors

This chapter discusses gallium nitride (GaN) and aluminum gallium nitride (AlGaN) ultraviolet (UV) detectors. Semiconducting materials, whose resistivity may be changed by many orders of magnitude by exposing them to radiation, are a natural choice for photodetectors. They are particularly sensitive to electromagnetic radiation with photon energies exceeding their energy gaps and producing electron–hole pairs. As GaN is a direct-bandgap material with excellent transport and optical properties that is grown on sapphire, spinel, silicon, and silicon carbide substrates, this semiconductor and related materials are prime candidates for visible-blind detectors. GaN-based materials have demonstrated excellent performance potential for applications in visible-blind detectors, which may operate in harsh conditions and/or at elevated temperatures. Photons absorbed in a semiconductor may cause different types of transitions. The chapter discusses three types of transitions for UV detectors: (1) intrinsic band-to-band transitions, (2) valence band to exciton level transitions, and (3) acceptor level to conduction band transitions.
Faculty perception of information literacy at Queensborough Community College

This study examines how faculty perceived information literacy classes provided by Queensborough Community College. A survey was distributed in the spring of 2017 via faculty e-mail. The survey foc...
Implications of region-specific gene expression for development of the partially fused petunia corolla.

Angiosperm petal fusion (sympetaly) has evolved multiple times independently and is associated with increased specificity between plants and their pollinators. To uncover developmental genetic changes that might have led to the evolution of sympetaly in the asterid core eudicot genus Petunia (Solanaceae), we carried out global and fine-scale gene expression analyses in different regions of the corolla. We found that, despite several similarities with the choripetalous model species Arabidopsis thaliana in the proximal-distal transcriptome, the Petunia axillaris fused and proximal corolla tube expresses several genes that in A. thaliana are associated with the distal petal region. This difference aligns with variation in petal shape and fusion across ontogeny of the two species. Moreover, differential gene expression between the unfused lobes and fused tube of P. axillaris petals revealed three strong candidate genes for sympetaly based on functional annotation in organ boundary specification. Partial silencing of one of these, the HANABA TARANU (HAN)-like gene PhGATA19, resulted in reduced fusion of Petunia hybrida petals, with silencing of both PhGATA19 and its close paralog causing premature plant senescence. Finally, detailed expression analyses for the previously characterized organ boundary gene candidate NO APICAL MERISTEM (NAM) supports the hypothesis that it establishes boundaries between most P. axillaris floral organs, with the exception of boundaries between petals.
Activation of Benzylic Carbons in η2-Arene Complexes: A Novel and Efficient Synthesis of Functionalized Decalins

3-Alkylated anisole complexes of pentaammineosmium(II) are treated with methyl vinyl ketone and triflic acid to form 4H-anisolium Michael adducts. These compounds deprotonate regioselectively at the benzylic position adjacent to C3 and then undergo an aldol cyclization with the pendant carbonyl to form the decalin core. Reduction of the dienonium product can be directed in a 1,4 fashion to generate a trans decalin or in a 1,2 fashion to provide a methoxydiene complex that serves as a precursor to other functionalized decalins.
Clinical and Immunological Features of 78 Adult Patients with Primary Selective IgG Subclass Deficiencies

The purpose of this study is to describe both clinical and immunological features in large cohort of adult patients with IgG subclass deficiency, and response to immunoglobulin therapy. This is a retrospective study of data obtained from electronic medical records and paper charts of 78 patients with IgG subclass deficiency seen and followed at our immunology clinics from 2010 to 2016. Both isolated selective IgG subclass deficiency as well as combined (two) subclass deficiencies were observed. IgG3 subclass deficiency, isolated and in combination with other IgG subclass deficiency, is the most frequent of IgG subclass deficiency. A majority of patients presented with upper and lower respiratory tract infections, especially chronic sinusitis. Both allergic and autoimmune manifestations are common; however, there is no subclass preference. The proportions and absolute numbers of CD3+ T cells, CD4+ T and CD8+ T cells, CD19+ B cells, and CD3-CD16+CD56+ NK cells were normal in the majority of patients in all IgG subclass deficiencies. Total serum IgG levels did not correlate with IgG subclass levels across all IgG subclass deficiencies. Anti-pneumococcal polysaccharide antibody responses were impaired in 56% of patients. IgG3 subclass deficiency is the most common IgG subclass deficiency, and anti-polysaccharide antibody responses are distributed among IgG subclasses with modest preference in IgG2 subclass. The majority of patients treated with immunoglobulin responded by reduction in frequency of infections and requirement of antibiotics.
Renal amyloidosis with emphasis on the diagnostic role of electron microscopy.

Our understanding of renal diseases with structured deposits has improved in the last two decades with the development of new diagnostic techniques that also changed the role of ultrastructural pat...
The Relation between Cost Shifting and Segment Profitability in the Defense-Contracting Industry

We test the conjecture from prior research that defense contractors' excess profitability in the 1980s stemmed from their ability to shift common overhead costs to government contracts that typically allow cost reimbursement or price renegotiation (Rogerson 1992; Thomas and Tung 1992; Lichtenberg 1992). Although we confirm prior evidence that defense contractors enjoyed abnormally high profitability on their government work in the 1984-1989 period (a period of relatively low competition for defense contracts), we find no evidence that this excess profitability is attributable to cost shifting. In addition, we find no evidence that Top 100 defense contractors (firms that likely wield above-average market power) are able to use cost shifting to exploit a lack of competition in the industry. Our results suggest that, contrary to the conjectures in prior research, the unusually high profitability reported on government contracts in 1984-1989 is more likely attributable to nonaccounting explanations than to cost shifting.
Liver transplantation for perihilar cholangiocarcinoma: patient selection and outcomes.

Introduction: Peri-hilar cholangiocarcinoma is an aggressive bile duct cancer. Long-term survival is possible with margin-negative surgery. Historically, unresectable disease was approached with no...
Hierarchies, markets, and collaborative networks in energy governance: Multilevel drivers of renewable energy deployment.

Abstract State renewable portfolio standard (RPS) mandates, competitive wholesale electricity markets, and cooperative regional transmission planning have all been identified as potential drivers of RE production. However, these factors are typically studied in isolation, and studies come to mixed conclusions about their actual effects on RE deployment. In this article, we a) use a novel “networks of action situations” (NAS) approach to examine the way that state RPS mandates, competitive markets, and regional transmission planning interact to jointly affect RE production; and b) ask whether these patterns differ across traditionally regulated and “deregulated” jurisdictions. We analyze and compare interactions between mandates, markets, and regional planning processes across two state-region dyads, both of which have achieved high levels of RE deployment but represent different institutional contexts. We find that RPS mandates are key drivers of RE deployment, but that these effects are realized through regional markets and planning processes. RPS mandates are similarly embedded in markets and networks in both cases with similar effects on RE production, but Minnesota's more traditional approach gives regulators greater authority over the type and location of RE production compared to Connecticut's more market-driven approach. Our analysis suggests that policy analysts should pay closer attention to the institutional environments in which policy instruments are embedded, and we offer several testable propositions about how mandate, market, and network interactions likely shape RE production.
Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy in Patients with Left Ventricular Assist Devices

Many patients with end stage heart failure who receive left ventricular assist device therapy (LVADs) have an existing cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) device. Although large randomized studies have shown the benefit of CRT in heart failure patients without LVADs, it is unclear whether this benefit persists or is even detrimental in patients whose left ventricle is supported mechanically with a LVAD. The goal of this chapter is to present the risks and benefits of continuing CRT therapy in patients with a LVAD.
Chemoprotective effect of metformin against HR+/HER2- breast cancer among women with type-2 diabetes.

10518Background: Type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) increases the risk of breast cancer among postmenopausal women. Metformin has demonstrated a chemoprotective effect in breast cancer, however its ro...
Ritz Neural Network (RitzNN) Method for $H$ (curl) Problems

In this paper, we propose to use deep neural network method for numerically solving $H$ (curl) problems through the Ritz loss functional formulation, where discretization of a PDE is set up as an optimization problem through the natural minimization principles. A two-dimensional test problem shows that the resulting RitzNN method is capable of approximating $H$ (curl) problem with corner singularity accurately.
The Feline Isolation Call

The vocalization of the human neonate has been called an ‘acoustical umbilical cord’ insofar as it serves as a primary survival mechanism in obtaining food, warmth, and comfort for the otherwise helpless infant. Through these vocalizations, which utilize only variations in pitch, duration and intensity for differences in meaning, the infant signals different emotional and affective messages to caregivers. For the first six to nine months of life, this form of communication comprises a universal language common to all infants and independent of cultural bias (Olney and Scholnick, 1975). Subsequently, phoneme imitation and word production begin to obscure this prelinguistic form of communication and, with the development of a vocabulary, a grammar, and a syntax, a qualitatively different, culturally-bound linguistic communication system emerges.
New Null Space Results and Recovery Thresholds for Matrix Rank Minimization

Nuclear norm minimization (NNM) has recently gained significant attention for its use in rank minimization problems. Similar to compressed sensing, using null space characterizations, recovery thresholds for NNM have been studied in. However simulations show that the thresholds are far from optimal, especially in the low rank region. In this paper we apply the recent analysis of Stojnic for compressed sensing to the null space conditions of NNM. The resulting thresholds are significantly better and in particular our weak threshold appears to match with simulation results. Further our curves suggest for any rank growing linearly with matrix size n we need only three times of oversampling (the model complexity) for weak recovery. Similar to we analyze the conditions for weak, sectional and strong thresholds. Additionally a separate analysis is given for special case of positive semidefinite matrices. We conclude by discussing simulation results and future research directions.
When Good-Enough is Enough: Complex Queries at Fixed Cost

Collections of time-series data appear in a wide variety of contexts. To gain insight into the underlying phenomenon (that the data represents), one must analyze the time-series data. Analysis can quickly become challenging for very large data (~terabytes or more) sets, and it may be infeasible to scan the entire data-set on each query due to time limits or resource constraints. To avoid this problem, one might pre-compute partial results by scanning the data-set (usually as the data arrives). However, for complex queries, where the value of a new data record depends on all of the data previously seen, this might be infeasible because incorporating a large amount of historical data into a query requires a large amount of storage. We present an approach to performing complex queries over very large data-sets in a manner that is (i) practical, meaning that a query does not require a scan of the entire data-set, and (ii) fixed-cost, meaning that the amount of storage required only depends on the time-range spanned by the entire data-set (and not the size of the data-set itself). We evaluate our approach with three different data-sets: (i) a 4-year commercial analytics data-set from a production content-delivery platform with over 15 million mobile users, (ii) an 18-year data-set from the Linux-kernel commit-history, and (iii) an 8-day data-set from Common Crawl HTTP logs. Our evaluation demonstrates the feasibility and practicality of our approach for a diverse set of complex queries on a diverse set of very large data-sets.