cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pixel-Based Classification of Hyperspectral Images Using Convolutional Neural Networks

The recent progress in geographical information systems, remote sensing (RS) and data analytics enables us to acquire and process large amount of Earth observation data. Convolutional neural networks (CNN) are being used frequently in classification of multi-dimensional images with high accuracy. In this paper, we test CNNs for the classification of hyperspectral RS data. Our proposed CNN is a multi-layered neural network architecture, which is tailored to classify objects based on pixel-wise spatial information using spectral bands of hyperspectral imagery (HSI). We use benchmark satellite imagery in four different HSI datasets for classification using the proposed architecture. Our results are compared with support vector machine (SVM) and extreme learning machine (ELM) algorithms, which are frequently used techniques of machine learning in RS data classification. Moreover, we also provide a comparison with the state-of-the-art CNN approaches, which have been used for HSI classification. Our results show improvements of up to 6% on average over SVM and ELM while up to 4% improvement is observed in comparison with two recently proposed CNN architectures for HSI classification accuracy. On the other hand, the processing time of our proposed CNN is also significantly lower.
O USO DE SOFTWARES EDUCATIVOS NA ALFABETIZAÇÃO E LETRAMENTO DE ALUNOS DOS PRIMEIROS ANOS DO ENSINO FUNDAMENTAL

Este trabalho visa analisar alguns softwares educativos como recurso na alfabetizacao de alunos do primeiro ao terceiro anos do Ensino Fundamental, assim como sugerir estes instrumentos para auxiliar professores e alunos nas producoes de leitura, escrita e na oralidade. O trabalho e resultado de uma pesquisa sobre o perfil dos profissionais e as tecnologias por eles utilizadas no seu cotidiano e nas atividades pedagogicas em sala de aula. Com a intencao de propor sugestoes de quais softwares educativos sao mais apropriados para desenvolver o conhecimento. A pesquisa ocorreu com uma turma de 2o Ano de uma escola do municipio de Sao Mateus, estado do Espirito Santo. Nela foram trabalhados leituras, producoes escritas e orais utilizando-se de softwares educativos. Foram tambem observados os resultados alcancados apos inserir nos planejamentos os softwares educativos. O resultado das possiveis tarefas com o uso de softwares educativos esta previsto para ser passado aos professores durante o estudo na escola no decorrer do ano letivo de 2015 e, se preciso sempre mostrar novidades a esse grupo ou outros da escola.
Implementing and Evaluating a Multihospital Standardized Opioid Curriculum for Surgical Providers

Objective (1) To identify gaps in providers knowledge on opioid medication and dosing, patient-specific characteristics that require alterations in dosing, and patient monitoring and treatment adjustments. (2) To evaluate an educational intervention aimed at minimizing these deficits. Design Observational prospective study. Providers took an anonymous paired pre-and posteducation knowledge assessment before and after participating in a 75-minute educational session. Results before and after the educational session were compared. Setting Surgical providers included nurse practitioners, physician assistants, preinterns, and general surgery residents across 4 quaternary care hospitals in Boston. Participants There were 194 participants and 174 completed both pre- and posteducation knowledge assessments. Results Average scores on the educational assessment increased from 59% before the course to 68% after the session. Posteducation, providers reported increased comfort in prescribing and 95% stated that the curriculum would impact their practice. Conclusions Surgical providers at multiple hospitals have significant gaps in knowledge for optimal prescribing and management of opioid prescriptions. A 75-minute opioid education session increased prescriber knowledge as well as comfort in prescribing. This multicenter study demonstrates how an educational initiative can be implemented broadly and result in decreased knowledge gaps.
The formerly incarcerated, advocacy, activism, and community reintegration

Restorative, or strength-based, reentry has been advanced as an alternative to the far more common risk-based or needs-based approaches to assisting in the reintegration of prisoners back into soci...
An undergraduate surgery interest group: Introducing premedical students to the practice of surgery

Purpose Early exposure and surgical mentorship can augment interest in surgery. We evaluate the effect and feasibility of offering education and mentorship opportunities in surgery to premedical students at our institution through an undergraduate surgery interest group (USIG). Materials and Methods We conducted a 1-year assessment of our USIG and reviewed its organizational structure, funding resources, media promotion, and educational activities. Our USIG hosted introductory-level surgical skills workshops, guest lectures by surgeons, and various facility tours. To assess participants' interests, as well as the influences on them to pursue a surgical profession, we analyzed pre- and post-event questionnaires. Similar questionnaires were completed by medical students in our medical student surgery interest group to compare any differences in perception between premedical and medical students. Results Our USIG currently has 378 undergraduate student members, with a higher proportion of women than in our medical student surgery interest group (P < 0.003). Neurosurgery was the most popular career choice among undergraduate participants. Participants reported the highest satisfaction with suturing and high-fidelity trauma surgery skills workshops. Undergraduate participants indicated that their intrinsic interest in the sciences is the highest motivation to pursue a surgical profession. Resident lifestyle and social obligations of a surgical career were actually positive influences for undergraduate participants; in contrast, medical students viewed those variables as negative factors. Conclusion Our USIG was met with enthusiasm by premedical students and faculty alike. Participation strengthened premedical students' interest in pursuing surgery and increased their understanding of the surgical profession. Early mentorship may positively influence premedical students' perception of surgical careers. USIG is economically feasible and time-efficient; we encourage other academic institutions and educators to consider investing in similar interest groups.
eTest: a limited-interaction, longitudinal randomized controlled trial of a mobile health platform that enables real-time phone counseling after HIV self-testing among high-risk men who have sex with men.

HIV disproportionately affects men who have sex with men (MSM) in the USA, and new infections continue to increase, particularly among African American (AA) and Hispanic/Latino (H/L) MSM. Rates of HIV testing are particularly low among AA and H/L MSM, and innovative approaches to encourage testing may help address high incidence in these men. HIV self-testing (HST) may be an important tool for increasing rates and frequency of testing. HST may be particularly well-suited for AA and H/L MSM, given that stigma and mistrust of medical care contribute to low testing rates. Despite its promise, however, many are concerned that HST does not sufficiently connect users with critical post-testing resources, such as confirmatory testing and care among those who test positive, and that these limitations may result in delayed linkage to care. We developed a mobile health platform (eTest) that monitors when HST users open their tests in real time, allowing us to provide timely, “active” follow-up counseling and referral over the phone. In this study, 900 high-risk MSM (with targets of 40% AA, 35% H/L) who have not tested in the last year will be recruited from social media and other gay-oriented websites in several major cities. Over 12 months, participants will be randomly assigned to receive (1) HST with post-test phone counseling and referral (eTest condition), (2) HST without active follow-up (standard condition), or (3) reminders to get tested for HIV at a local clinic (control) every 3 months. Primary outcomes include rates of HIV testing, receipt of additional HIV prevention services, and PrEP initiation verified by clinical medical records. This study tests whether providing more active counseling and referral after HST encourages more regular HIV testing and engagement with other prevention services among MSM, compared to more passive approaches or clinic-based testing alone. It will also explore the cost-effectiveness and emotional/behavioral effects of these two strategies. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT03654690 . Registered on 31 August 2018.
Characterizing gait pattern dynamics during symmetric and asymmetric walking using autoregressive modeling

Gait asymmetry is often observed in populations with varying degrees of neuromuscular control. While changes in vertical ground reaction force (vGRF) peak magnitude are associated with altered limb loading that can be observed during asymmetric gait, the challenge is identifying techniques with the sensitivity to detect these altered movement patterns. Autoregressive (AR) modeling has successfully delineated between healthy and pathological gait during running; but has been little explored in walking. Thus, AR modeling was implemented to assess differences in vGRF pattern dynamics during symmetric and asymmetric walking. We hypothesized that the AR model coefficients would better detect differences amongst the symmetric and asymmetric walking conditions than the vGRF peak magnitude mean. Seventeen healthy individuals performed a protocol that involved walking on a split-belt instrumented treadmill at different symmetric (0.75m/s, 1.0 m/s, 1.5 m/s) and asymmetric (Side 1: 0.75m/s-Side 2:1.0 m/s; Side 1:1.0m/s-Side 2:1.5 m/s) gait conditions. Vertical ground reaction force peaks extracted during the weight-acceptance and propulsive phase of each step were used to construct a vGRF peak time series. Then, a second order AR model was fit to the vGRF peak waveform data to determine the AR model coefficients. The resulting AR coefficients were plotted on a stationarity triangle and their distance from the triangle centroid was computed. Significant differences in vGRF patterns were detected amongst the symmetric and asymmetric conditions using the AR modeling coefficients (p = 0.01); however, no differences were found when comparing vGRF peak magnitude means. These findings suggest that AR modeling has the sensitivity to identify differences in gait asymmetry that could aid in monitoring rehabilitation progression.
Home visiting and justice system collaborations: Two Programs’ approaches to advocating for justice system-involved parents

Abstract Justice system-involved parents and their children face many significant socioeconomic and psychosocial challenges; yet, parenting and family support for these families is scant. Home visiting is a voluntary and flexible service delivery strategy that may be well-suited to serving justice system-involved parents. The present study explored implementation features and practices among two home visiting programs in the United States that serve young parents (including expectant parents) with past and current justice system involvement, including a large statewide program that accommodates but does not target justice system-involved parents, and a small program that was designed for and is targeted to mothers in the juvenile justice system. Based on 13 in-depth interviews with parents, home visitors, and justice system representatives, our findings revealed the unique circumstances in the lives of system-involved parents to which home visitors working with these parents must adapt. We discuss home visitors’ techniques for drawing youth into the home visiting relationship and forming connections with them, for targeting program services to their role as parents and other specific needs, and for emphasizing parents’ strengths. Finally, we review each program’s relationship to the state criminal justice agency, and how it facilitates or hinders home visitors’ ability to maintain ongoing program relationships with system-involved parents. The study concludes with practical recommendations for home visiting programs considering working with parents involved in the criminal justice system.
Point/Counterpoint: Paraclavicular Decompression Is the Best Approach for Venous Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

In this point/counterpoint chapter, we present the view that paraclavicular decompression is the best approach for the surgical treatment of venous thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS). This is based on considering the limitations and deficiencies of the transaxillary and infraclavicular approaches, as well as the distinct advantages of the paraclavicular approach. This approach thereby combines the benefits of both supraclavicular and infraclavicular exposures, represents the only approach by which to routinely obtain complete resection of the entire first rib, and offers the potential for direct reconstruction of the subclavian vein when needed, in a single operation. The results of treatment are excellent with current evidence favoring the paraclavicular approach over transaxillary and infraclavicular approaches. We conclude that in the hands of surgeons with experience and expertise, operative procedures based on the paraclavicular approach offer the most comprehensive, versatile, safe, and evidence-based approach to the treatment of venous TOS, as well as a predictably higher rate of success than other strategies to address this condition.
The value of preoperative imaging for identification of metastatic disease and prediction of adjuvant therapy in clinical early-stage cervical cancer

Objectives: The FIGO 2018 revised cervical cancer (CC) staging includes radiologic and pathologic data. No standardized guidelines exist guiding routine pre-operative (pre-op) imaging in patients (pts) with presumed early stage disease. Adjuvant chemoradiotherapy (CRT) increases morbidity, highlighting the need for improved preoperative risk assessment. Identification of clinical scenarios where imaging may be omitted is needed for cost effectiveness. We evaluated the ability of preoperative imaging to predict need for adjuvant CRT in pts with clinical early stage CC. Methods: This is a retrospective review of all pts with CC treated surgically at our institution between 2010 and 2017. All pts had negative imaging or no imaging prior to surgery. Demographic and clinicopathologic data was abstracted from medical records. Included pts had squamous, adenocarcinoma, or adenosquamous histology treated primarily with abdominal, laparoscopic, or robotic radical hysterectomy. Pts were assigned to 1 of 2 groups: those who had pre-op imaging with MRI, CT, or PET, and those who had none. Primary outcome was percentage of pts requiring adjuvant CRT by imaging group. Secondary outcomes were rate of nodal metastasis, five year overall survival (OS), progression free survival (PFS), and treatment-related morbidity. Statistical tests used were chi-square, logistic regression, and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. Results: Of 147 pts, 104 underwent pre-op imaging and 43 did not. Demographics did not differ between groups, except for more self-pay pts (16% vs 39.5%, p=0.002) and pts with adenocarcinoma (31% vs 44%, p=0.047) receiving no pre-op imaging. Pre-op imaging was not associated with a significant difference in the rate of adjuvant CRT (40% vs 35%, p=0.49), or nodal disease (15% vs 11.6%, p=0.55). There was no difference in rate of recurrence (15% vs 11.6%, p=0.55), OS (91% vs 89%, p=0.92), or PFS (76% vs 83%, p=0.66). Groups had similar rates of morbidity (35% vs 30%, p=0.53). Small tumor size predicted negative lymph nodes; 4.1% of pts with tumors less than 2cm had positive nodes on final pathology (OR=0.11, p=0.028). Many pts with clinical early stage disease do not receive surgery; thus, additional data was abstracted for pts with clinical stages I-IIA2 CC who underwent primary CRT. Of 92 pts who might otherwise have been eligible for surgical treatment, 39 (43%) had imaging findings suspicious for lymph node metastasis. Download : Download high-res image (144KB) Download : Download full-size image Conclusions: Though limited by sample size, approximately 20% of all clinically early stage pts in our cohort were upstaged by imaging and were not offered primary surgery. Imaging appears to be useful for initial disposition to primary surgery vs. CRT, but does not predict the need for adjuvant CRT, recurrence risk, or survival in pts treated with primary surgery. In pts with small tumors, (
Co-occurring substance use and psychological distress among exclusive e-cigarette use and other tobacco use among sexual and gender minorities in Texas.

BACKGROUND There is a dearth of literature on sexual and gender minority (SGM) only data that examines the association between tobacco use, co-occurring substance use, and psychological distress. METHODS Using SGM-only primary data collected between March 2016 and January 2017, participants were categorized based on recent tobacco use and prevalence estimates were calculated for exclusive e-cigarette use and use of other tobacco products. The strength of the association between tobacco use, recent hazardous alcohol use, illicit substance use, and having a diagnosis for depression, anxiety, or PTSD was estimated. Bivariate and adjusted multinomial logistic regression analyses were used to obtain estimates. RESULTS A third of participants (32.91%) reported recent tobacco use. Of these, 8.79% were exclusive e-cigarette users and 24.12% used other tobacco products. Compared to non-tobacco users, e-cigarette users were more likely to have recently used illicit drugs (RRR= 3.00 [1.89, 4.77]) and participated in a substance use treatment program (RRR= 7.98 [1.76, 36.15]). Participants categorized as using other tobacco products, when compared to non-tobacco users, were more likely to have recently used illicit drugs (RRR= 2.05 [1.46, 2.86]), engaged in hazardous drinking (RRR= 2.27 [1.63, 3.16]), and participated in a substance use treatment program (RRR= 9.53 [3.14, 28,88]). They were also more likely to have been recently diagnosed with PTSD (RRR= 3.40 [1.82, 6.34]). CONCLUSIONS SGM tobacco users are more likely to engage in hazardous drinking and illicit substance use and access substance use treatment services. There is an opportunity to reduce tobacco use among SGM individuals by developing, implementing, and evaluating tailored tobacco cessation interventions within substance use treatment facilities.
Synchronization for chaotic dynamical systems

Chaotic dynamical systems have potential applications in communications and signal processing: Because chaotic signals are noiselike and difficult to predict, they can potentially be used for masking information-bearing wave forms. A class of chaotic systems with potential applications to secret message transmission is one characterized by the so-called synchronization property, introduced by Pecora and Carroll [1 1]. A system possesses this property if it consists of two subsystems: A drive system (transmitter) and a stable response subsystem (receiver) that synchronize when coupled with a common signal. Masking techniques for such systems were developed by Cuomo, Oppenheim and co-workers (see [2] and the references therein) and [3]. On June 5, 1995 Charles Tresser from IBM (Yorktown Heights) presented a mathematical framework for the theory of a synchronization phenomenon for (chaotic) dynamical systems. His work, jointly with Worfolk [4], allows a rather complete treatment of the cases of linear maps and flows, and gives new insights for synchronizing some nonlinear systems. He also discussed potential applications to secure secret message transmission, and showed how to use synchronization to control chaos [5].
The Hungarian Revolution of 1956

The tima of that superstition which attributed irvotatiom to the 31-will of a few agitators have long passed away. Everyone knows nowadays that, wherever there is a levotatknaiy convulsion, there most be some social want in the background which is prevented by outworn institutions from satisfying itself.... Every attempt at forcible repressian will only bring it forth stronger until it bants its fetters. Karl Marx
Complex Permittivity of Calcium Copper Titanate Ceramics with a Bimodal Grain Size Distribution

The giant dielectric constant of calcium copper titanate (CCTO) has attracted a lot of interests in the last few years. Its dielectric properties, however, appeared to be very sensitive to the processing conditions. In our recent experiments on the processing of CCTOs, we observed the frequent occurrence of microstructure with a bimodal grain size distribution and a correlation between dielectric constant and the percentage of large grains in bimodal CCTOs. In this study, we assumed that CCTO ceramics are barrier layer capacitors and proposed an analytical model to describe the dielectric behavior of CCTOs with a bimodal grain size distribution. More importantly, both the insulating layer and the conductive core were included in the model to describe the complex permittivity and hence relaxation in bimodal CCTOs.
The Polemics of Exile in Jeremiah 26–45: The Hermeneutics of Citation: Jeremiah 26

jeremiah 26 is most commonly viewed as a narrative parallel to the Temple Sermon (Jer 7:1–15), providing a plausible historical background to the prophet's delivery of the famous critique of the Temple cult. The connection between the Temple Sermon and Jeremiah 26 is rather overt: the language and ideas of the former surface at the outset of the latter as a citation (Jer 26:4–6), demonstrating the author's belief in the centrality of the Temple Sermon to the prophet's career and message. Yet, a mere summary would have been redundant: the author's reliance on the Temple Sermon tells us that it was already well known to his exilic audience and (given its contents) central to exilic consciousness. In this respect, we must reconsider the context of the citation and the function of the chapter. Broadly speaking, Jeremiah 26 appears less concerned with the prophet himself than with the forces surrounding him. The people who hear his words seize him (vv. 8–9), the priests/prophets of the Temple prosecute him (v. 11), the royal officials decide his fate (v. 16), a representative of the scribal class saves him from reprisal (v. 24), and the chapter opens and closes with references to King Jehoiakim (vv. 1, 20–23). In short, the chapter is not about the prophet, but about the society of Jerusalem in the twilight years of the Judean monarchy.
Neuropharmacology of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

This chapter provides an overview of various treatment options for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). While methylphenidate in various forms remains the mainstay of pharmacological treatment, amphetamine and non-stimulant options are also viable and increasingly supported by controlled trials. The authors provide a comprehensive review of the literature which informs the concluding reflections on clinical practice in this rapidly evolving field. Keywords: stimulants; methylphenidate; dexmethylphenidate; amphetamines; adverse effects; non-stimulants; tricyclic antidepressants; atomoxetine; clonidine; guanfacine; alpha-2 agonists; bupropion; venlafaxine; modafinil; antipsychotic medications; supportive services (therapies); black box warning
Co-morbid diabetes in patients with Crohn’s disease predicts a greater need for surgical intervention

Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2012; 35: 126–132 Summary Background The prevalence of diabetes is increasing rapidly. Given its pro-inflammatory nature, comorbid diabetes may affect the course of Crohn’s disease (CD). Aim To determine whether comorbid diabetes influences the natural history of CD. Methods We compared a cohort with CD and comorbid diabetes to a nondiabetic control population and calculated the period prevalence of surgical intervention over a 5-year period. Unadjusted and adjusted odds-ratios were calculated regarding the need for surgical intervention using univariate and multivariate logistic regression. Results A total of 240 patients were identified, 16 of whom were diabetics (6.7%). The period prevalence of CD-specific surgery in the diabetic cases was 75.0% and in the nondiabetic controls, 31.7%. The diabetic patients were more obese than the controls (44% vs. 10%; P < 0.0001) and older than the controls (47.4 years vs. 38.6; P < 0.01). There was no difference in the frequency of biologic therapy use, immunomodulator use, smoking, perianal disease, ileal involvement or corticosteroid use between the diabetics and controls. Univariate analysis revealed that diabetes (OR 6.46 [95% CI 2.01–20.8]), smoking (OR 2.46 [95% CI 1.24–4.90]), ileal disease (OR 2.21 [95% CI 1.15–4.24]) and obesity (OR 2.22 [95% CI 1.04–4.77]) were risk factors for needing surgery. After adjustment for covariates, the OR for surgical intervention in diabetics was 5.4 (95% CI 1.65–17.64). Conclusion Co-morbid diabetes in patients with Crohn’s disease predicts a greater need for surgical intervention.
Homonuclear Recoupling Schemes in MAS NMR

The sections in this article are 1 Introduction 2 Dipolar Hamiltonian Under Magic Angle Spinning 3 Rotor-Driven Homonuclear Recoupling 4 Homonuclear Recoupling Via Spin Echoes 5 Direct Recoupling Sequences: DRAMA and USEME 6 Emerging Techniques 7 Concluding Remarks 8 Acknowledgements 9 Biographical Sketches Related Articles
The Export-Import Bank of the United States (CW)

In the fall of 2009, Fred Hochberg, Chairman of The Export-Import Bank of the United States (Ex-Im), and his team struggled to find a way to help finance the sale of Boeing aircraft to Emirates. Ex-Im responds to the challenges in credit market with an innovative offering. This case provides students with an opportunity to analyze the structure and activities of an export credit agency and to value the expected costs of issuing a loan guarantee.
Effective Communication and Creating Professional Learning Communities Is a Valuable Practice for Superintendents.

As the chief executive officer, the superintendent must demonstrate high quality performance at every level in order to impact student achievement. In order to be an effective superintendent, the individual must have knowledge and skills in educational leadership and be able to articulate information clearly and precisely about the school district, state and federal accountability systems, policy related to student achievement and personnel practices. The American Association of School Administrators states that the superintendent must know policy for collective bargaining processes for the state/local schools, school district policy and administrative regulations, district finances and budget matters, model the use of technology for instruction and management and should know the role of the Board of Education (AASA, 2011). Superintendents do not work alone, but work in collaboration with school personnel, leadership teams, broader communities and the Board of Education to ensure a productive school system. The responsibilities of the superintendent are many. The superintendent has the task to supervise the general conduct of district schools, instructional curriculum, handle school district management affairs, hiring appropriate personnel and dismissal of personnel based on state policy through the human resources management office. For the local schools, the superintendent should seek ways to encourage the practices of learning communities within the school district for the purpose of working together to improve teaching instructional skills based on the needs of students and if effective will promote higher student learning (Stoll, 2006). This study will focus on skills and knowledge needed for superintendents, what parents want, value of data, strategic planning, effective communication, learning community practices of ethics and morals, technology as a resource, and the characteristics of high performing schools.
1,3‐Diiodo‐5,5‐dimethylhydantoin

[2232-12-4] C5H6I2N2O2 (MW 379.92) InChI = 1S/C5H6I2N2O2/c1-5(2)3(10)8(6)4(11)9(5)7/h1-2H3 InChIKey = RDZHCKRAHUPIFK-UHFFFAOYSA-N (electrophilic iodination1; preparation of 1,2-dioxetanes from alkenes2; deprotection of dihianes3; oxidant in the synthesis of nitriles from primary alcohols,4 amines,4 or alkyl halides5; oxidative conversion of aldehydes to oxazolines6; and iododesilylation of alkenes7) Alternate Name: DIH. Physical Data: mp 192–196 °C. Solubility: soluble in acetone (see storage and handling below); slightly soluble in CH2Cl2; insoluble in petroleum ether. Form Supplied in: commercially available as a pale yellow to light brown solid. Preparative Method: by reaction of Iodine Monochloride (0.11 mol) with 5,5-dimethylhydantoin (0.05 mol) and Sodium Hydroxide (0.1 mol) in ice-water at 0 °C;1 the product is used without further purification. Purification: washed with water and ethyl acetate,8 recrystallization from acetone/petroleum ether.9 Handling, Storage, and Precautions: stable if stored at −20 °C and protected from light and moisture. The reagent reacts with acetone at 56 °C to form iodoacetone.1 Oxidizer, corrosive, and toxic to aquatic life. Adequate ventilation, and use of gloves, and eye protection are recommended.
Interference aware scheduling for peak channel reuse and max-capacity in smart meter networks

This paper introduces highly significant improvements in the multiuser capacity in unplanned networks with high levels of co-channel interference. We view this as the likely system scenario for future cognitive radio (CR) networks. For this reason, this paper presents a novel opportunistic interference aware scheduling protocol ideally suited for maximum channel reuse in unplanned networks. We present results for maximum capacity CR networks, many of which may be based upon the future IEEE 802.22 standard. The IEEE 802.22 standard lists smart grid as a future application protocol. We analyze the application of SISO (single-input and single-output) and MIMO (multiple-input and multiple output) interference aware scheduling to maximize the capacity and number of scheduled smart meters. We present simulation results that show tremendous improvement in the total capacity and number of scheduled smart meters in comparison to traditional scheduling schemes.
Stress and lifetime limitations of first-wall structural materials

Abstract Procedures are demonstrated for working backward from desired lifetime of a fusion reactor first-wall to trade-offs with surface heat flux and temperature, using failure criteria obtained from ASME Code Case 1592. The maximum surface heat flux on a stainless steel firstwall is predicted by the procedures developed here for a range of design parameters appropriate to a tokamak fusion power reactor.
Discriminative dictionary learning with spatial priors

While smoothness priors are ubiquitous in analysis of visual information, dictionary learning for image analysis has traditionally relied on local evidences only. We present a novel approach to discriminative dictionary learning with neighborhood constraints. This is achieved by embedding dictionaries in a Conditional Random Field (CRF) and imposing labeldependent smoothness constraints on the resulting sparse codes at adjacent sites. This way, a smoothness prior is used while learning the dictionaries and not just to make inference. This is in contrast with competing approaches that learn dictionaries without such a prior. Pixel-level classification results on the Graz02 bikes dataset demonstrate that dictionaries learned in our discriminative setting with neighborhood smoothness constraints can equal the state-of-the-art performance of bottom-up (i.e. superpixel-based) segmentation approaches. Furthermore, we isolate the benets of our learning formulation and CRF inference to show that our dictionaries are more discriminative than dictionaries learned without such constraints even without CRF inference. An additional benet of our smoothness constraints is more stable learning which is a known problem for discriminative dictionaries.
A novel microdissection and genotyping of follicular-derived thyroid tumors to predict aggressiveness.

Distinguishing thyroid follicular adenoma from minimally invasive or encapsulated angioinvasive carcinoma can be diagnostically challenging. In some cases, tumors are distorted, fragmented, or stripped of their capsule, and a definitive diagnosis becomes nearly impossible. In other cases, the foci of capsular and/or vascular invasion are subtle, thus making the diagnosis of carcinoma difficult. We developed a microdissection genotyping assay for assessing a panel of tumor-suppressor genes for loss of heterozygosity mutations. The frequency of allelic loss (FAL) in follicular-derived neoplasms correlates with the histologic aggressiveness of the tumor. Furthermore, we calculated the amount of genetic heterogeneity within each tumor, as a second important measure of a tumor's ability for clonal expansion and a surrogate marker for its malignant potential. The follicular adenomas had a low FAL (average 9%) and low intratumoral heterogeneity (5% variability). The minimally invasive and encapsulated angioinvasive carcinomas had an intermediate FAL (average 30%) and intermediate intratumoral heterogeneity (10% variability). The widely invasive carcinomas had a high FAL (average 53%) and high intratumoral heterogeneity (24% variability). Although a larger retrospective study is needed to correlate genotyping studies with patient outcome and prognosis, our results indicate that performing a mutational genotyping assay can stratify tumors into the histologically well-defined categories of adenomas, minimally invasive/angioinvasive carcinomas, and widely invasive follicular carcinomas.
Exceeding the Shockley–Queisser limit in solar energy conversion

We summarize our recent explorations of photophysical mechanisms that may be utilized in solar cells with power conversion efficiency theoretically exceeding the Shockley–Queisser limit. The dominant losses responsible for the Shockley–Queisser limit are below band-gap and thermalization (hot carrier) losses; together, they account for >55% of the total absorbed solar energy. This perspective focuses on two photophysical mechanisms, hot carrier equilibration and carrier multiplication, which may be used to reduce these losses through their utilization in novel solar cell designs. For the implementation of a hot carrier solar cell, we discuss the necessity of hot carrier scattering as well as the photon flux challenge. Although recent experiments have demonstrated the feasibility of hot-electron extraction from photo-excited semiconductor nano-crystals, the photon flux challenge cannot be met in these materials. We propose graphene and related materials as potentially ideal chromophores for hot carrier solar cells. For the multi-exciton solar cell, we focus on the molecular analog called singlet fission. Recent experiments in our lab revealed a quantum coherent mechanism in which photo-excitation of the organic semiconductor pentacene or tetracene creates a quantum superposition of singlet exciton and multi-exciton states. This quantum superposition and the corresponding decoherence time (i.e., singlet fission time) are critical to the competing dynamics of charge or energy harvesting. We discuss design principles for solar cells based on singlet fission materials.
Identifying and Reducing Scaling Problems in Solar Hot Water Systems

In areas with hard water, scaling can reduce the reliability of solar hot water (SHW) systems. Common reliability problems associated with scaling are both mechanical (collector freeze damage, clogged passages, premature failure of pumps and valves) and thermal (efficiency degradation). A mechanistic and a mathematical scaling rate model are presented. Results from controlled experiments investigating the effect of key water chemistry and heat transfer parameters on the scaling rate are summarized. The implications of these results for designing SHW systems for scaling environments are discussed. Most importantly, indirect systems where the potable water side of the heat exchanger is integrated into the storage tank wall, such as in a wrap-around heat exchanger, are shown to be the most mechanically and thermally reliable systems for scaling environments. A new version of the software SolScale is discussed, which is intended to aid in the design of SHW systems to reduce scaling related reliability problems.Copyright © 2002 by ASME
Corneal clouding in the genetic mucopolysaccharidoses: a cell culture study.

On the basis of the mucopolysaccharide content of cultured corneal and conjunctival fibroblasts and epithelia, corneal clouding reflected an increase in total cellular mucopolysaccharides. The genetic mucopolysaccharidoses could be divided into two groups on the basis of mucopolysaccharide content of both cultured skin and ocular fibroblasts: (1) If corneal clouding was a significant early clinical finding (Hurler and Scheie syndromes), the total mucopolysaccharide content of the cultured fibroblasts was markedly increased. (2) If there was a gradual appearance of corneal clouding later in life (Sanfilippo, Morquio and Maroteaux-Lamy syndromes), the mucopolysaccharide content of the cultured fibroblasts was only slightly above normal values. The one exception was in the Hunter syndrome, in which corneal clouding did not occur; the mucopolysaccharide content of the cultured ocular fibroblasts was only slightly elevated, whereas that of the skin fibroblasts was markedly increased.
Thermal response of optical reticles: experimental verification of finite element models

To extend optical lithography technology to the sub-65-nm linewidth regime, all mask-related distortions must be eliminated or minimized. Thermal distortion during the exposure process can be a significant contribution to the total pattern placement error budget for advanced photomasks. Consequently, several finite element (FE) models were developed to predict the thermal and mechanical response of an optical reticle during exposure. We present the experimental verification of the FE thermal models. In particular, the results of the numerical simulation are compared with the experimental data and excellent agreement is found.
Refraction and reflection on a spatially dispersive medium

Exact solution is presented to the problem of refraction and reflection on a spatially dispersive model medium. It is found that contrary to usual claims, Maxwell's theory is entirely adequate to provide a unique solution to the problem. Analogies to the classic Fresnel formulae are obtained and the behavior of the transverse waves and of the longitudinal wave is shown graphically as function of the angle of incidence.
Analysis of factors contributing to abandoned residential developments using remote sensing and geographic information systems (GIS)

New residential developments in the Southeastern United States peaked in early 2006, but since then declined leaving numerous residential developments stalled in various stages of construction. The status of 119 previously identified (2009) abandoned residential housing developments was reinvestigated in 2013 using the most current available high-resolution aerial photography with a randomly selected number of sites (40) in Greenville, Pickens and Spartanburg Counties in South Carolina. The original land cover before any housing developments was determined based on historical infrared aerial imagery (1999). Development sites were categorized based on the development status: no change, active development or completed development. Site locations were used to determine network distance to major cities and schools to determine if location is related to current development status. Historical aerial photos showed that the majority of land originally developed was forest land. Site visits indicated that 24 out of 40 sites previously identified as abandoned are in various stages of recent construction (three out of five in Pickens County, three out of 15 in Spartanburg County and 18 out of 20 in Greenville County). Of the 19 sites that were labeled as active through a field visit 15 were positively identified as active by using the aerial imagery. Sites with recent construction were closest to schools, but distance to urban centers was not a factor. This study suggests that proximity to schools may be a driving factor in restarting previously abandoned developments.
Some natural flavonoids are competitive inhibitors of caspase-1, -3, and -7 despite their cellular toxicity

A common feature of both apoptosis and inflammation is the activation of caspases. Caspases are aspartate-directed cysteine proteases that have numerous cellular targets. It has been discovered that several flavonoids are inhibitors of caspases. Flavonoids are members of a family of polyphenolic compounds from plants that have many biological properties, one of which is the ability to induce cell death. Some flavonoids are selective inhibitors of particular caspases. Since some of the inhibitory flavonoids are nevertheless cytotoxic, these results suggest that flavonoid-induced cell death may be occurring through a non-classical apoptosis pathway that is not dependent on caspase activity.
Synaptic localization and axonal targeting of agrin secreted by ventral spinal cord neurons in culture.

Agrin secreted by motor neurons is a critical signal for postsynaptic differentiation at the developing neuromuscular junction. We used cultures of chick ventral spinal cord neurons with rat myotubes and immunofluorescence with species-specific antibodies to determine the distribution of agrin secreted by neurons and compare it to the distribution of agrin secreted by myotubes. In addition, we determined the distribution of agrin secreted by isolated chick ventral spinal cord neurons and rat motor neurons grown on a substrate that binds agrin. In cocultures, neuronal agrin was concentrated along axons at sites of axon-induced acetylcholine receptor (AChR) aggregation and was found at every such synaptic site, consistent with its role in synaptogenesis. Smaller amounts of agrin were found on dendrites and cell bodies and rarely were associated with AChR aggregation. Muscle agrin, recognized by an antibody against rat agrin, was found at nonsynaptic sites of AChR aggregation but was not detected at synaptic sites, in contrast to neuronal agrin. In cultures of isolated chick neurons or rat motor neurons, agrin was deposited relatively uniformly around axons and dendrites during the first 2-3 days in culture. In older cultures, agrin immunoreactivity was markedly more intense around axons than dendrites, indicating that motor neurons possess an intrinsic, developmentally regulated program to target agrin secretion to axons.
Group Counseling with College Underachievers

Some of the controversy concerning the efficacy of psychotherapy or counseling has been resolved by recent evidence that studies reporting no effects had indiscriminately lumped together the high and low therapeutic conditions that are associated with successful and unsuccessful outcomes. The present study extends these findings to a group of essentially neurotic underachieving college freshmen. The 24 experimental students who received group counseling showed greater improvement in grade-point average than 24 matched, non-counseled control subjects. Further, those counseled subjects who received the highest therapeutic conditions tended to show the greatest improvement.
2‐D tomography in multi‐resolution analysis model space

The multi-resolution analysis (MRA) model space is obtained by applying a spatially and spectrally localized wavelet transform to the conventional spatial (singleresolution analysis, SRA) model space. The MRA model space has several useful features. The wavelet localization facilitates truncation of null space components. Further, we find that relatively few of the wavelet coefficients are needed to accurately represent typical subsurface models, resulting in considerable reduction in the size of inverse calculations. Also, we introduce a visual tool called the MRA display, which we believe will be useful for migration and inversion studies.
An improved method for the determination of capillary pressure-saturation curves involving TCE, water and air

Most capillary pressure (Pc)-saturation (S) curves are determined with a pressure or tension apparatus containing a porous medium sample of often >5 cm in height. If the porous medium sample consists of a coarse-grained material and the interfacial tension between the wetting and non-wetting fluid is sufficiently low, it is not inconceivable that large changes in S occur over the height of the sample. Using the standard procedure of measuring the outflow volume of one of the fluids, from which average values of S are then calculated, can therefore result in substantial errors. In this study a method is proposed to measure Pc−S drainage and imbition relationships for TCE-air and TCE-water systems at points along a 1-m-long column with the help of a γ-radiation system and from knowledge of the fluid pressure distributions at hydraulic equilibrium. The results show that S-values changed from complete saturation to their residual values, and vice versa, over Pc changed ranging from 2.5 to 10 cm of water pressure, which makes the use of, e.g., a pressure cell a dubious procedure for certain fluid systems.
Sorption of water vapour and nitrogen gas by bacterial spores.

As a result of their high refractility and their resistance to stains and to lethal agents such as heat and chemicals, it has long been thought that bacterial spores are relatively dry and impermeable. There is conflicting evidence, however, about the degree of desiccation and impermeability which may exist. Refractive index measurements on spores in aqueous suspensions indicate very low water contents1, and the surface area of lyophilized spores available to adsorption of nitrogen gas is so small that little or no internal porosity can be postulated2. On the other hand, it has been demonstrated that spores have a significant affinity for water3. In aqueous media it is known that germinants enter spores rapidly and evidence has been presented for considerable porosity and a water content as high as 75 per cent of the dry weight4. In an effort to account for these discrepancies, we have employed standard gas adsorption techniques to measure water vapour sorption of intact and crushed spores and the nitrogen gas adsorption of spores which were dried in various ways. The results confirm the hydrophilic nature of spores and indicate that a considerable fraction of the volume occupied by water in wet spores can be preserved in the dry state by employing dehydration methods which minimize the collapse of hydrophilic, macromolecular structures.
Recent Advances in Dynamic Buckling Analysis of Liquid-Filled Shells

The dynamic buckling of liquid-filled shells is reviewed. Comparison of the analysis with experimental results is presented. The governing equations of dynamic buckling of liquid-filled imperfect shells are then derived. A simple imperfection pattern is chosen to explain the additional buckling modes encountered in the experiments.
The European Union and Economic Freedom

This paper integrates two growing strains of literature. The first strain looks at the effect of economic and political unions on outcomes such as bond ratings and economic convergence. The second ...