cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A note on estimating the variance of the sample mean in stratified sampling

Consider a sample of n observations such that a single observation is randomly drawn from each of n strata, each having mean ui and variance σ2i (i=1,…, n). Two estimators for the variance of the sample mean are proposed and their relative efficiency is examined. Nous considerons un plan d'echantillonnage stratifie ou une observation est tiree au hazard de chacune de n strates. Deux estimateurs de la variance d'echantillonnage de la moyenne sont proposes et leur efficacite relative est etudiee.
Integrated diagnostic support system

Integrated diagnostic support system (IDSS) is a system which manages not only text data but also medical images on the central database and provides doctors most medical care information on a single workstation. IDSS consists of host database management, a gateway, and workstation. Medical images are sent to the host from medical imaging modalities through a gateway program and are saved in the database. When images are required at workstations, those images are sent from the host to the workstation and saved in the workstation database. The workstation has functions to display images which are in local disks. Doctors can select single or multiple images to display by mouse operation. There are three database layers such as a host cash, a long term storage, and a local workstation. Medical images which are referred to frequently are held in the host cash but moved to the long term storage at a certain point. In order to see medical images on the workstation, the images have to be loaded into the local database by the host applications or a doctor's operations.
Isolation of thrombin-E and the evolution of enzyme activity from prothrombin

La prethrombine-E a seulement une activite esterasique et, apres la perte d'un lien Arg-Ile, elle provoque la formation dlune thrombine proteolytique composee de 2 chaines (A et B) liees dans une maille bisulfide. A la suite d'un procede de decomposition autolytique, la chaine B se detache et on obtient la thrombine esterasique formee par 2 chaines A et B2. On a introduit de nouvelles methodes pour l'isolement de la thrombine-E. L'antithrombine et le DFP neutralisent effectivement les 3 enzymes.
Newton's unpublished perturbation method for the lunar motion

The Portsmouth Collection of Newton's mathematical papers reveal that by 1687 Newton had developed a general perturbation method to deal with the effect of the solar gravitational force on the motion of the moon. Although this method was briefly outlined in Cor. 3 and 4 of Prop. 17, Book 1 of the Principia, the details were not presented in any of the three editions supervised by Newton. It is shown here that this method corresponds to the variation of orbital parameters method developed many years later by Euler, Lagrange and Laplace. Newton's integration of his equation for the motion of the lunar apsis is discussed and compared with the results obtained later by Clairaut and D'Alembert.
DACTYLOGYRIDS (MONOGENOIDEA) PARASITIZING THE GILLS OF SPINEFOOTS (TELEOSTEI: SIGANIDAE): PROPOSAL OF GLYPHIDOHAPTOR N. GEN., WITH TWO NEW SPECIES FROM THE GREAT BARRIER REEF, AUSTRALIA, AND G. PLECTOCIRRA N. COMB. FROM RAS MOHAMMED NATIONAL PARK, EGYPT

Nine species of Siganus (Perciformes: Siganidae) were examined for dactylogyrids (Monogenoidea) from the Red Sea, Egypt; the Great Barrier Reef, Australia; and the South China Sea, China. Species of Tetrancistrum were found on siganids from all 3 localities; Pseudohaliotrema spp. were restricted to siganids from the Great Barrier Reef; and species representing Glyphidohaptor n. gen. were found on siganids from the Red Sea and Great Barrier Reef. Siganus argenteus from the Red Sea and Siganus vulpinus from the Great Barrier Reef were negative for dactylogyrid parasites. Glyphidohaptor n. gen. is proposed for 3 species (2 species new to science) and the new species are described: Glyphidohaptor phractophallus n. sp. from Siganus fuscescens from the Great Barrier Reef; Glyphidohaptor sigani n. sp. from Siganus doliatus (type host), Siganus punctatus, Siganus corallinus, and Siganus lineatus from the Great Barrier Reef; and Glyphidohaptor plectocirra (Paperna, 1972) n. comb. (= Pseudohaliotrema plectocirra Paperna, 1972) from Siganus luridus and Siganus rivulatus from the Red Sea.
Effects of acute and chronic administration of phencyclidine on the A10 dopaminergic mesolimbic system: electrophysiological and behavioral correlates.

Abstract Electrophysiological and behavioral methods were used to evaluate the effects of chronic exposure to phencyclidine (PCP, 5 mg/kg/day for 30 days) on ventral tegmental A 10 dopaminergic neurons and locomotor and ataxic behavior in the rat. Extracellular recordings from single neurons in the ventral tegmentum showed only minimal differences between rats chronically treated with either saline or PCP. A comparison of the rising portion of the cumulative dose-response curves indicated that the animals treated chronically with the drug required only 0.4 times more PCP than the controls to produce equivalent changes in neuronal firing rates. Also, the average maximum increase in activity in A 10 neurons, induced by PCP, was 43% in the drug-treated rats compared to 60% in the controls. Although these were moderate quantitative changes, a marked qualitative difference in the response of A 10 neurons to PCP was seen. Whereas PCP elicited a characteristic dose-dependent biphasic effect on the firing rates in the control group, the declining (inhibitory) component of the response was not present in the animals chronically treated with PCP. In parallel with the minimal electfophysiological changes, measurements of gross locomotor activity showed that the response to the thirtieth (30th) injection of PCP was virtually identical to that measured in the same animals following the first exposure. In contrast, however, the ataxia which accompanied the hyperactivity rapidly diminished over the course of treatment. It would appear, therefore, that chronic exposure to PCP did not substantially diminish the ability of PCP to activate the A 10 neurons, comprising the mesocorticolimbic dopaminergic systems. In fact, with long-term chronic use of PCP, larger doses may actually result in a greater degree of stimulation of midbrain dopaminergic neurons. This effect may partially underly the neurobiological mechanism by which chronic abuse of PCP can eventually lead to psychotic-like personality changes.
New Concepts for X-Ray, Soft X-Ray, and EUV Optical Instrumentation Including Applications in Spectroscopy, Plasma Diagnostics, and Biomedical Microscopy: A Status Report

In this article, we review current progress in the development of several techniques for extreme ultraviolet, soft x-ray, and x-ray optical instrumentation. Applications of these concepts include diagnostics of hot plasmas, spectroscopic studies of the interaction of multicharged ion beams with matter (atoms, ions, molecules, microstructures, surfaces, solids), and biomedical x-ray microscopy. Novel applications of components include the use of glass capillary converters (GCCs) and multilayer mirrors (MLMs) or crystals. GCC devices provide guiding, focusing, and polarization analysis of short wavelength radiation over a wide bandwidth. The MLM or crystal optical elements can be used for dispersing, focusing, and polarization-sensitive studies of radiation within a narrow bandwidth. In this report we focus on the development and testing of optical diagnostic devices for the short wavelength spectral region 0.1 nm < λ < 100 nm.
Electoral Governing Coalitions in the Presidency: A Theory and a Case Study

In recent years, the role of presidential candidates in constructing their own coalitions to secure both the nomination and election has increased as their reliance on their own party organization ...
Geomorphic changes upstream of beaver dams in Bridge Creek, an incised stream channel in the interior Columbia River basin, eastern Oregon

Channel incision is a widespread phenomenon throughout the dry interior Columbia River basin and other semi-arid regions of the world, which degrades stream habitat by fundamentally altering natural ecological, geomorphological and hydrological processes. We examined the extent of localized aggradation behind beaver dams on an incised stream in the interior Columbia River basin to assess the potential for using beaver, Castor canadensis, dams to restore such channels, and the effect of the aggradation on riparian habitat. We estimated aggradation rates behind 13 beaver dams between 1 and 6 years old on Bridge Creek, a tributary to the John Day River in eastern Oregon. Vertical aggradation rates are initially rapid, as high as 0·47 m yr−1, as the entrenched channel fills, then level off to 0·075 m yr−1 by year six, as the sediment begins accumulating on adjacent terraces. We found that a 0·5 m elevation contour above the stream channel approximately coincided with the extent of new riparian vegetation establishment. Therefore, we compared the area surrounding reaches upstream of beaver dams that were within 0·5 m elevation of the stream channel with adjacent reaches where no dams existed. We found that there was five times more area within 0·5 m elevation of the channel upstream of beaver dams, presumably because sediment accumulation had aggraded the channel. Our results suggest that restoration strategies that encourage the recolonization of streams by beaver can rapidly expand riparian habitat along incised streams. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Effects of Generalized Joint Laxity on Risk of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury in Young Female Athletes

BackgroundWomen who participate in high-risk sports suffer anterior cruciate ligament injury at a 4- to 6-fold greater rate than men.PurposeTo prospectively determine if female athletes with decreased passive knee joint restraint (greater joint laxity) and greater side-to-side differences in knee laxity would be at increased risk of anterior cruciate ligament injury.Study DesignCase control study; Level of evidence, 3.MethodsFrom 1558 female soccer and basketball players who were prospectively screened, 19 went on to tear their anterior cruciate ligaments. Four height- and mass-matched control subjects were selected from the uninjured screened athletes for comparison with each of the 19 injured subjects, making a total of 95 subjects (19 injured; 76 uninjured). Generalized joint-laxity tests and anterior-posterior tibiofemoral translation were quantified using the CompuKT knee arthrometer. A multivariable logistic regression model was constructed to determine predictors of anterior cruciate ligament injur...
AN ELEMENTARY THEORY OF ONE-DIMENSIONAL ROD PENETRATION USING A NEW ESTIMATE FOR PRESSURE

In this paper, a new pressure law is proposed to replace the modified Bernoulli equation of Tate in 1967 and 1969. It is achieved by decomposing the equation of motion, which was proposed by Jones et al. in 1987, into two parts and incorporating the kinematic equation by Wilson et al. in 1989. The new pressure law takes the effect of mushroom strain into account. From two different considerations, the pressure law is applied to the one-dimensional penetration modeling. First, by assuming that the rod/target interface pressure is approximately constant during the quasi-steady state, the governing equations can be analytically integrated to give a closed form solution for the penetration depth. The prediction is reasonably good in the low velocity regime. Secondly, a velocity-dependent interface pressure is added. A so-called shape factor, which was first introduced without physical interpretation by Alekseevskii in 1966, is substantiated. With this factor, the governing equations can be numerically integrated to give very accurate predictions for the impact velocity range from 1 km/s to 4 km/s.
Improving North American terrestrial CO 2 flux diagnosis using spatial structure in land surface model residuals

We evaluate spatial structure in North American CO 2 flux observations using a simple diagnostic land surface model. The vegetation photosynthesis respiration model (VPRM) calculates net ecosystem exchange (NEE) using locally observed temperature and photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) along with satellite-derived phenology and moisture. We use observed NEE from a group of 65 North American eddy covariance tower sites spanning North America to estimate VPRM parameters for these sites. We investigate spatial coherence in regional CO 2 fluxes at several different time scales by using geostatistical methods to examine the spatial structure of model–data residuals. We find that persistent spatial structure does exist in the model–data residuals at a length scale of approximately 400 km (median 402 km, mean 712 km, standard deviation 931 km). This spatial structure defines a flux-tower-based VPRM residual covariance matrix. The residual covariance matrix is useful in constructing prior fluxes for atmospheric CO 2 concentration inversion calculations, as well as for constructing a VPRM North American CO 2 flux map optimized to eddy covariance observations. Finally (and secondarily), the estimated VPRM parameter values do not separate clearly by plant functional type (PFT). This calls into question whether PFTs can successfully partition ecosystems' fundamental ecological drivers when the viewing lens is a simple model.
Fracture Toughness Anisotropy of Sodium β‐ Alumina

The fracture toughness anisotropy was determined for sodium p-alumina single crystals, using a hardness indent method. For cracks with a habit plane normal to the 00.1 planes, the fracture toughness is ∼2 MPa.m112, whereas for cracks running parallel to the 00.1 planes, it is ∼0.16 MPa.m112. This extreme anisotropy may partly explain the difference between calculated and observed critical current densities jor mode I failure initiation of poly crystalline solid electrolytes.
Comparing the Utility of the Theory of Planned Behavior Between Boys and Girls for Predicting Snack Food Consumption: Implications for Practice

The purpose of this study was to use the theory of planned behavior to explain two types of snack food consumption among boys and girls (girls n = 98; boys n = 69), which may have implications for future theory-based health promotion interventions. Between genders, there was a significant difference for calorie-dense/nutrient-poor snacks (p = .002), but no difference for fruit and vegetable snacks. Using stepwise multiple regression, attitudes, perceived behavioral control, and subjective norms accounted for a large amount of the variance of intentions (girls = 43.3%; boys = 55.9%); however, for girls, subjective norms accounted for the most variance, whereas for boys, attitudes accounted for the most variance. Calories from calorie-dense/nutrient-poor snacks and fruit and vegetable snacks were also predicted by intentions. For boys, intentions predicted 6.4% of the variance for fruit and vegetable snacks (p = .03) but was not significant for calorie-dense/nutrient-poor snacks, whereas for girls, intentions predicted 6.0% of the variance for fruit and vegetable snacks (p = .007), and 7.2% of the variance for calorie-dense/nutrient-poor snacks (p = .004). Results suggest that the theory of planned behavior is a useful framework for predicting snack foods among children; however, there are important differences between genders that should be considered in future health promotion interventions.
Multi-resolution meshes for multiple target, single content adaptation within the MPEG-21 framework

To present three-dimensional data both in heavy and light-weight clients, an adaptation scheme is required. Current state-of-the art research shows promising results for specific purposes but it is still not well adoptable for light-weight clients such as mobile devices. In this research, we present a method for transmitting adapted 3D content to multiple target devices. To accomplish this goal, we devised a clustered representation of a multi-resolution model that is flexible, simple, efficient, and works with the MPEG-21 adaptation mechanism.
Nitrogen fertilization during planting and establishment of the urban forest: A collection of five studies

Abstract Today's urban forest increasingly consists of planted trees, especially as native forest fragments yield to urban sprawl. These trees are usually larger (over 2-m tall) than typical reforestation trees and grow very little for the first few years after planting. Stressful urban sites exacerbate this effect and many practitioners hope to shorten the time required to reach environmentally functional size by fertilizing at planting. This is a controversial practice since nitrogen (N) application creates the potential for water quality impairment and effectiveness is uncertain. It is not clear how nitrogen application affects large trees with radically altered root:shoot ratios or how nursery production methods and restrictive sites affect response. In a series of five separate studies, we tested several N rates on ten shade tree species (both field- and container-grown) and transplanted to a range of urban sites, from a relatively undisturbed forest fragment to a highly compacted cutover soil with an absent A horizon. Trunk diameter increase, as an integrative metric of tree biomass accumulation, was followed for up to 4 years on each experiment. Overall, we saw little effect from fertilizing at planting at any rate we tested, regardless of location. Three studies that included leaf analysis with a SPAD-502 chlorophyll meter indicated that neither SPAD meter values or N concentration within leaves was increased by fertilizing at planting, suggesting that the newly planted shade trees took up very little of the applied N. Overall, SPAD-502 readings correlated well with actual leaf N concentration (r=0.692). This group of studies indicates that fertilization at planting does not increase post-transplant growth, even in stressful urban sites and it is therefore not effective at shortening the establishment period of transplanted shade trees.
Formulation and Processing of Polyphase Ceramics for High Level Nuclear Waste

Two basic crystalline phase assemblages have been developed for incorporating the full range of Savannah River Plant waste compositions into polyphase ceramic forms. Both phase assemblages provide crystalline host phases, with stable mineral analogues, for all radionuclides in the waste. The first, an alumina based assemblage, immobilizes the radioactive elements in solid solutions of magnetoplumbite and uraninite with the bulk non-radioactive waste elements being present in spinel and nepheline. The second assemblage uses the titanate based “zirconolite” type fluorite structure and the alumina/iron based magnetoplumbite phases to host the radioactive nuclei with spinel and nepheline, again providing crystalline hosts for the non-radioactive elements. Both phase assemblages can be consolidated to a fine grain ceramic by hot isostatic pressing at 1040° C pressures from 20,000 to 30,000 psi. Redox control during processing, just sufficient to reduce uranium to the tetravalent state, is used.
The Stable 2-Kilobase Latency-Associated Transcript of Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 Can Alter the Assembly of the 60S Ribosomal Subunit and Is Exported from Nucleus to Cytoplasm by a CRM1-Dependent Pathway

During latency of herpes simplex virus type 1 in the neurons of the peripheral nervous system, the major transcript detected is the 2-kb latency-associated transcript (LAT) intron. During lytic infection, this intron has been shown to associate with ribosomes, suggesting a role in modifying the translational machinery of infected cells. In this study we show, using LAT-transfected cells, that the interaction of the intron with the 60S ribosomal subunit leads to irreversible changes in the sedimentation profile of this subunit in the nucleus. Furthermore, the 2-kb LAT intron is transported to the cytoplasm as part of the 60S ribosomal subunit, using a CRM1-dependent pathway.
The extradural temporopolar approach: a review of indications and operative technique

Object The extradural temporopolar approach is used for enhanced exposure of the cavernous sinus and petroclival regions in the treatment of complex lesions not amenable to sole treatment via radiosurgical or endovascular methods. The authors' objective was to review the indications, surgical experience, and operative technique in a series of patients who underwent surgery with this approach. Methods The authors conducted a retrospective review to identify patients who underwent a temporopolar approach from 1992 to 2008. An orbitozygomatic craniotomy was frequently used, followed by extradural retraction of the temporal lobe. A sequential progression of bone removal at the anterior and middle skull base, followed by opening the layers of the lateral wall of the cavernous sinus was next performed to safely retract the brain and widen the exposure to the cavernous sinus, interpeduncular fossa, and upper petroclival regions. Results Sixty-six patients were identified and included in the study. The mean patie...
Toward Spotting the Pedophile Telling victim from predator in text chats

This paper presents the results of a pilot study on using automatic text categorization techniques in identifying online sexual predators. We report on our SVM and k-NN models. Our distance weighted k-NN classifier reaches an f-measure of 0.943 on test data distinguishing the child and the victim sides of text chats between sexual predators and volunteers posing as underage victims.
Effect of atomic bonding on defect production in collision cascades

We study the mechanisms of damage production during ion irradiation using molecular dynamics simulations of 400 eV -10 keV collision cascades in four different materials. The materials Al, Si, Cu and Ge are contrasted to each other with respect to the mass, melting temperature and crystal structure. The results show that the crystal structure clearly has the strongest effect on the nature of the damage produced, and elucidate how the open crystal structure affects the nature of defects produced in silicon.
Arachidonic acid–and docosahexaenoic acid–enriched formulas modulate antigen-specific T cell responses to influenza virus in neonatal piglets

Background: Whereas the immunomodulatory effects of feeding either arachidonic acid (AA) or docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) separately have been previously investigated, little is known about the immunomodulatory efficacy of AA or DHA when they are fed in combination as infant formula ingredients. Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the ability of AA- and DHA(AA/DHA)-enriched infant formula to modulate immune responses in the neonate in response to an inactivated influenza virus vaccine. Design: Neonatal piglets (n = 48) were weaned on day 2 of age and distributed into 16 blocks of 3 littermate piglets each. Within each block, piglets were randomly assigned to a control formula, AA/ DHA-enriched formula (0.63% AA and 0.34% DHA), or sow milk for 30 d. On day 9, 8 blocks of piglets were immunized with an inactivated influenza virus vaccine. On days 0, 9, 16, 23, and 30 after weaning, we measured influenza virus-specific T cell proliferation and phenotype of T subsets in peripheral blood. A delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction test was administered on day 28. Cytokine messenger RNA expression was determined by quantitative real time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction on day 30. Results: The influenza virus-specific CD4 + and CD8 + T cell ex vivo lymphoproliferative responses were significantly lower on day 23 after immunization in piglets receiving dietary AA/DHA supplementation and sow milk than in those receiving the unsupplemented control formula. The immunomodulatory effects of AA/DHA-enriched formulas were consistent with up-regulation of interleukin 10 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Conclusion: Overall, it appears that the AA/DHA-enriched formula modulated antigen-specific T cell responses in part through an interleukin 10-dependent mechanism.
Ophthalmic manifestations of the Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome.

Ophthalmic disease was described in three patients with the Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome, an entity characterized by eczema, thrombocytopenia, and recurrent infections, and inherited in a sex-linked fashion. Blepharoconjunctivitis. associated with molluscum contagiosum, and herpes simplex keratitis, isolated or accompanied by disseminated mucocutaneous herpes simplex virus infection or both, were found. In 18 of the 80 cases of the Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome documented in the literature, ocular complications were present.
Recent developments in power transistors

Power transistors capable of providing five watts output are now in production. Because these units are relatively non-linear in their characteristics, large signal graphical analysis of their behavior is necessary. To facilitate this, the static characteristics of the grounded base, grounded emitter, and grounded collector circuits are presented for several temperatures. Since power transistors are seldom driven with a high impedance source, the input voltages must be known as well as the input currents. These characteristics are drawn to indicate both simultaneously on one chart. The power that must be removed from the junction of these transistors requires that the mounting for the transistor be thermally adequate to remove the heat without allowing the temperature of the Junction to exceed its critical value. The temperature power relationship is discussed and the theoretical size requirements for a heat dissipator are shown for free air convection and forced convection.
Dependence of tissue optical properties on solute-induced changes in refractive index and osmolarity.

Additions of a solute/carbohydrate in tissue affect the size of tissue cells and the refractive indexes of the extra- and intracellular fluids, and thus the overall tissue scattering properties. We use both the Rayleigh- Gans and Mie theory approximation in calculating effects of the osmolarity and refractive indexes on the reduced scattering coefficient of tissue, and employ photon diffusion theory to associate the reduced scattering coefficient to the mean optical path length. The calculations show that changes of scattering in tissue depend not only on the change in extracellular refractive index but also on the change in osmolarity, and thus on the change in cell size and volume fraction. Experimentally, we have utilized time-domain and frequencydomain NIR techniques to measure the changes of optical properties caused by an addition of a solute in tissue models and in perfused rat livers. The temperature-dependent path length measurement of the perfused liver confirms the dependence of tissue scattering on the tissue cell size. The results obtained from the liver with three kinds of carbohydrate perfusion display different scattering aspects and can be well explained by changes in cell size and in extracellular as well as intracellular refractive indexes. The consistency between the theoretical and experimental results confirms the dependence of optical properties in (liver) tissue on both tissue osmolarity and relative refractive indexes between the extracellular and intracellular compartments. This study suggests that the NIR technique is a novel and useful tool for noninvasive, physiological monitoring.
Drs. Friend and Bennett reply

To the Editor: We are somewhat baffled by Dr. Wolfe, el al ’s allegation that our editorial critique1 of their recent paper2 is part of an ongoing opposition to the 2010 American College of Rheumatology Preliminary Diagnostic Criteria for Fibromyalgia. This seems odd, given that we independently validated those criteria3. Indeed, in contradistinction to Dr. Wolfe’s claim, we reviewed that paper and recommended “acceptance with revision.” Notwithstanding these facts, Dr. Wolfe went on to inaccurately criticize our paper’s methodology, and had to retract his mistake in an Erratum published in Arthritis and Rheumatology 4. Our editorial, solicited by the editor, provides constructive comments, and should be viewed in that light. This is the accepted scientific method for the progressive advancement of knowledge5. Our editorial stated that the Polysymptomatic Distress Scale (PSD) relies on the 19-point Widespread Pain Index (WPI) component as its primary assessment of pain. Wolfe, et al retorted that the WPI pain count “is not a primary assessment of pain” and that “we do not want people to use the WPI to measure pain severity.” Was this a misreading of the editorial? We did not say that the WPI is a primary assessment of pain, but that the PSD relies primarily on … Address correspondence to Dr. R. Friend, 2347 NW Overton St., Portland, Oregon 97210, USA. E-mail: ronald.friend{at}stonybrook.edu
Diet induced variations in tolerance to altitude hypoxia in the mouse.

SummaryMice fed large amounts of carbohydrate prior to exposure to altitude hypoxia survive at least 5 times longer than fasting animals and significantly longer than animals fed their normal diet. When fed lipids of varying saturations while fasting, their tolerance is the same as that in the fasting state alone. Large amounts of fat added to the regular diet failed to decrease survival. These results demonstrate a salutary effect of carbohydrates on tolerance to hypoxia. They show as well the inability of lipids to alone promote survival. Possible mechanisms for the protection provided by carbohydrate are discussed.
Synergistic timing speculation for multi-threaded programs

In this paper, we address the problem of timing speculation for multi-threaded workloads executing on a multi-core processor. Our approach is based on a new observation --- heterogeneity in path sensitization delays across different threads in multi-threaded programs. Leveraging this heterogeneity, we propose Synergistic Timing Speculation (SynTS) to jointly optimize the energy and execution time of multithreaded applications. In particular, SynTS uses a sampling based online error probability estimation technique, coupled with a polynomial time algorithm, to optimally determine the voltage, frequency and the amount of timing speculation for each thread. Our experimental evaluations, based on detailed cross-layer simulations, demonstrate that SynTS reduces energy delay product by up to 21%, compared to existing timing speculation schemes.
Volumetric changes following partial nephrectomy.

RAMAN JD. Volumetric changes following partial nephrectomy. Can J Urol 2015;22(3):7797. of CT scanning to assess disease status following PN, the imaging foundation exists to easily and reliably perform these volumetric measurements. Secondly, technical aspects of renorrhaphy may be critical (even more so than ischemia duration) in parenchymal preservation following PN. Specifically, this study suggests that a two layer closure of renal defect results in a greater volume loss with implications of GFR decline when compared to a base layer closure only. This renorrhaphy approach would greatly benefit from further investigation in a larger cohort with a greater number of surgeons. Ultimately, the goal of kidney tumor surgery is removal of the mass without need for complete nephrectomy when technically feasible. As the size and complexity of these tumors increase, the likelihood of safe and oncologically effective PN decreases in the standard urologist attempting minimal or no ischemia techniques. The emphasis should be on investigation of reconstructive techniques that can preserve renal function whilst providing an operative field that permits reasonable resection. Technical nuances of partial nephrectomy (PN) remain a continued debate in the urologic literature. Indeed, a number of contemporary studies advocate the use of an early unclamping or a “zero ischemia” technique to manage small renal cortical tumors.1 These technical approaches have been carried even further to address more complex renal masses including those that are hilar or larger (cT1b) in diameter.2,3 The impetus for minimizing ischemia has been to optimize renal preservation and limit the decline of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) following surgery. Nonetheless, challenges and questions are raised when attempting to translate this approach further into general practice. In particular, given that this is a cancer operation, is greater blood loss with poorer visualization really the operative environment that should be translated to the average practicing urologist performing partial nephrectomy? Or perhaps, are there alternative and safer means to achieve kidney preservation that may be feasible for a larger population of urologists to embrace? The concept of functional renal preservation is one that highlights that optimal kidney function following partial nephrectomy may be predicated on maximizing the volume of residual parenchyma after resection of tumor.4 Therefore, the emphasis is less on actual ischemia time but more on precision of resection and effectiveness of reconstruction. The preceding article by Bahler and colleagues is a relatively small series but highlights salient points of consideration in this regard.5 Firstly, computed tomography can be a valuable and easily accessible means to determine volumetric renal measurements and estimated GFR following partial nephrectomy. Given the routine use References
Adaptive Mode Control for Few-Mode Fiber Based Sensors and Sensor Networks

The development of mode division multiplexing has found numerous interesting applications in optical sensing. A major challenge has been how to control the mode composition of the interrogation signals. In this work, we presented a time-domain method that can adaptively control the form of optical signals at multiple locations in a two-mode-fiber. We also carry out a preliminary study that suggests the method of adaptive mode control is compatible with the requirements of optical sensing.
Challenges to sustainable development in Mississippi

Abstract To date, various constituents have attempted to improve the economic opportunities in Mississippi through entrepreneurship, small business development, and job creation/workforce development and wastewater treatment. However, none have explicitly focused on avenues toward sustainable development in terms of poverty eradication and achieving equitable resource allocation. This study seeks to empirically derive the challenges to sustainable development in Mississippi by forming clusters of counties with similar socioeconomic, demographic, health, and environmental characteristics. Maps created through ArcGIS software are used in conjunction with the cluster analysis to visualize the data. Cluster analysis yielded three distinct clusters. Priority should be given to counties that are predominantly black, rural, and characterized by high unemployment and high poverty. Special attention should also be implemented in counties characterized by a high unmet need for health services and a low density of m...
Reversing T Cell Dysfunction for Tumor Immunotherapy

The last several years have witnessed a sea change in the thinking of the biomedical community toward cancer immunology. The remarkable successes achieved in some cases with monoclonal antibodies targeted to immune checkpoint receptors (ICRs) have encouraged the widespread search for other potential molecules that might serve as effective targets for enhancing immune responses to tumors. A major advantage of these approaches is that they do not require knowledge about specific tumor antigens found in particular cancers, or even particular patients. Rather, they rely on the presence of endogenous antitumor T cells that for one reason or another are otherwise inadequate to eliminate the tumor. A common cause for this dysfunction is thought to be the adoption of a differentiation state known as “exhaustion,” due in part to chronic antigen exposure. Current models assume that the success of ICR “blockade” is the result of interfering with ICR:ligand interactions on exhausted T cells that preferentially express these markers. However, in some cases, ICR antibodies may actually enhance residual T cell function more directly. In addition, it will be important to consider the contribution of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in the tumor microenvironment, as these often express some of the same ICRs expressed by exhausted effector T cells. Finally, an emerging body of research is focused on the role of metabolic dysfunction in driving or maintaining T cell exhaustion, making this another possible area to exploit in the setting of tumor immunotherapy.
Hypertrophic Growth of Vascular Smooth Muscle

Smooth muscle cell (SMC) growth is increased in arteries of hypertensive patients and animals [1,12,24,30,36]. This increased growth contributes to development of medial thickening in resistance vessels [1,10] and has been hypothesized to play an important role in the etiology of the hypertension by conferring a geometric advantage to the thickened vessel such that vascular resistance is greater at any given level of smooth muscle activation [9]. In contrast, in a large conduit vessels, accelerated smooth muscle growth is believed to represent an adaptive process to minimize changes in wall stress resulting from increased blood pressure [27,28]. Whereas accelerated growth of arterial smooth muscle cells is a common feature of virtually all hypertensive models, the cellular nature of the growth response, with regard to the contribution of cellular hypertrophy versus hyperplasia, appears to vary as a function of the vascular site examined and/or the hypertensive model studied [29]. For example, aortic medial thickening in the spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR) is due primarily to enlargement of preexisting SMCs or cellular hypertrophy, and is accompanied by development of polyploidy in a large fraction of hypertrophic SMCs [29,32,33]. In contrast, medial thickening in intermediate-size resistance vessels in the SHR and in the aorta of rats made hypertensive by aortic coarctation is due to SMC hyperplasia [31].
Sit‐To‐Stand Lift: Effects of Lifted Height on Weight Borne and Upper Extremity Strength Requirements

To prevent back and shoulder injuries to nursing personnel, sit-to-stand lifts are used to transfer partial-weight-bearing patients with upper extremity strength. However, the weight-bearing capacity and upper extremity strength required of patients have not been defined. The objectives of this study were to determine: (a) the percentage of body weight borne by the patient when lifted to different heights in the lift and (b) whether a patient needs upper extremity strength. Nineteen healthy normal-weight volunteers (ages 19–39) were transferred from a hospital bed to a wheelchair using (a) a gait belt and (b) a sit-to-stand lift. With legs secured in the lift, participants were lifted to five different heights (knee angles 120–180 degrees) while holding and not holding the lift handles. Participants supported a greater percentage of body weight as they were lifted higher, increasing from 60% to almost 100% (p < .01). Holding the handles did not have an effect on weight borne overall. At low heights, slightly less weight was borne when not using the handles than with them, and no difference in weight borne was found at heights near standing (p < .01). All participants felt more comfortable and safer transferring from bed to wheelchair with the mechanical lift than with the gait belt (p < .01). Results are limited to normal-weight patients but suggest that sit-stand lifts can be used in patients without upper extremity strength. Patients with limited weight-bearing capacity can be transferred by not raising them high in the lift. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
In Vivo Downregulation of Bcl-2 by G3139 (G) Enhances Rituximab (R) Anti-Tumor Activity: Effect of Sequential Versus Concurrent G3139 Administration on Survival in a Lymphoma-Bearing SCID Mouse Model.

Abstract Bcl-2 over expression has been associated with poor prognosis and chemoresistance in various hematologic and solid tumor malignancies. G, an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) targeting Bcl-2, downregulates Bcl-2 expression favoring apoptosis in cancer cells. Previously, we have demonstrated that G enhances R anti-tumor activity in various lymphoma pre-clinical models. Clinical trials are being conducted to evaluate the safety and efficacy of G3139 combined with R in relapsed/refractory NHL patients. However, the optimal sequence of administration of G and R is unknown. Our main objective was to determine the optimal anti-tumor schedule to administer G in combination with R. Six 8-week old SCID mice were inoculated via tail vein injection with Raji cells (1 x 106 on day 0). After five days, to allow for tumor engraftment, mice were assigned to receive placebo [P], G, R, R followed by G [R→G], G followed by R [G→R] or G preceding each dose of R [G+R]. In addition, other control groups consisted of lymphoma-bearing mice treated with G3622 (ASO control) [reverse sequence, RS], trastuzumab (isotype) [I] and R in combination with G3622 [R+RS]. Antibodies were administered vial tail vein injection at a dose of 10mg/kg/dose x 4 doses and ASO were administered intraperitoneally at 5mg/kg/dose x 8 doses. The end-point of the study was survival. Survival analysis was performed by Kaplan-Meier curves and p values calculated using log rank test. Differences in survival of lymphoma-bearing SCID mice were noted according to the schedule of G/R administration. Synergistic activity was observed in animals treated with [G+R]. A modest improvement in the mean survival was noted in animals treated with [G] (26 days) or [G→R] (28 days) when compared to control mice (20 days) (P
Bilinguals’ twisted tongues: Frequency lag or interference?

Though bilinguals know many more words than monolinguals, within each language bilinguals exhibit some processing disadvantages, extending to sublexical processes specifying the sound structure of words (Gollan & Goldrick, Cognition, 125(3), 491–497, 2012). This study investigated the source of this bilingual disadvantage. Spanish–English bilinguals, Mandarin–English bilinguals, and English monolinguals repeated tongue twisters composed of English nonwords. Twister materials were made up of sound sequences that are unique to the English language (nonoverlapping) or sound sequences that are highly similar—yet phonetically distinct—in the two languages for the bilingual groups (overlapping). If bilingual disadvantages in tongue-twister production result from competition between phonetic representations in their two languages, bilinguals should have more difficulty selecting an intended target when similar sounds are activated in the overlapping sound sequences. Alternatively, if bilingual disadvantages reflect the relatively reduced frequency of use of sound sequences, bilinguals should have greater difficulty in the nonoverlapping condition (as the elements of such sound sequences are limited to a single language). Consistent with the frequency-lag account, but not the competition account, both Spanish–English and Mandarin–English bilinguals were disadvantaged in tongue-twister production only when producing twisters with nonoverlapping sound sequences. Thus, the bilingual disadvantage in tongue-twister production likely reflects reduced frequency of use of sound sequences specific to each language.
A “Parvenu Predator”? When the Kill Zone and the Contact Zone Collide on the Isle of Spice

This chapter interweaves the author’s experiences participating in Operation Urgent Fury (the 1983 U.S. invasion of Grenada) with a reflection on the significance of the operation on a personal, intellectual, and collective level. While doing so, it engages a number of voices from the region who responded to the invasion over the past three decades, such as Grenadian writers Merle Collins and Gus John; poet Lasana Sekou, from St. Martin; writers V.S. Naipaul, Fabian Badejo, and Derek Walcott; and others who voiced their opinions to the author personally. This chapter reflects on the contrast between learned versus experiential knowledge, the manner in which one’s subject-position constrains one’s perceptions of the Other, and the way in which landscape projects rich historical narratives—untranslatable and often unreadable to an interloper.
SONOS 1Tr eFlash Memory

In this chapter, a brief history of SONOS flash technology is introduced followed by the details of one-transistor SONOS (1Tr-SONOS) technology. Memory-cell structure, basic cell-operation principles and fabrication process are described. Then basic array architecture and read/program/erase operations are explained with corresponding peripheral circuits. A disturb mode in program and erase operations is also discussed. Finally, advanced circuit techniques to expand application range, especially for automotive use with high reliability and low energy consumption are described.
The Human System: An Introduction

Manning treats humanity as an open, world-encompassing system which has now grown to become a major influence on the larger system of the earth itself. Analysis focuses on the mechanisms of social evolution, governed by conscious construction of social structures. The systemic story is told through four major epochs: (1) formation and expansion of the human system, from 70,000 BP (Before present); (2) emerging sub-systems of production in an era of ecological fluctuation, from 30,000 BP; diverging scales of the social order, from 6000 BP; and the human-system growth that brought two global crises, from 1700 CE. The current challenges confronting the human system lie in the interplay of two dynamics: external effects bringing environmental degradation and internal conflicts brought by expanding inequality.
The Morbidity and Mortality of Laparoscopic Appendectomy in Patients with Cirrhosis.

Introduction:The perioperative mortality is significantly higher in patients with cirrhosis undergoing certain surgical procedures. In this study, we examined the inpatient perioperative mortality ...
Design of an all-GaN bidirectional DC-DC converter for medium voltage DC ship power systems using series-stacked GaN modules

In this paper a high-voltage enhancement-mode Gallium Nitride (GaN) High Electron Mobility Transistor (HEMT)-based module is presented for medium voltage shipboard power systems applications. Series-stacked lateral enhancement-mode GaN HEMTs with integrated quasi-active gate driver are the base for the proposed GaN module. This structure consists of passive components and just one gate driver to control all of the devices. Test results showed an acceptable synchronization of gate voltage and consequently small delay between the drain-source voltage of the two devices during switching transitions using the proposed gate controller. An application of a bi-directional boost converter, that can be used as an interface between the medium voltage and low voltage buses onboard the ship using the proposed GaN module, was demonstrated. Simulation and test results verified the idea.
Metabolism of 14C-Containing Contaminants in Plants and Microorganisms

The most important researches of organic contaminants metabolism in plants and microorganisms using 14C-labeled compounds are reviewed. The data that indicate on biodegradation and full detoxification (mineralization) of organic contaminants, such as aliphatic and monoaromatic hydrocarbons and their derivatives, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, organochlorine pollutants, and, 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene, in microorganisms and to lesser extent in plants are presented.
Mechanical Support for the Failing Heart

For an increasing number of cardiac patients mechanical support devices have meant the difference between life and death. Mechanical support encompasses cardiopulmonary bypass, intra-aortic balloon pumping, ventricular assist devices including pulsatile and nonpulsatile systems, and the total artificial heart (TAH). Circulatory support can be considered temporary (pending recovery of the natural heart or transplantation) or permanent. While the early experience with the Jarvik-7 TAH was disappointing, the severe shortage of donor hearts is stimulating attempts to develop other permanent implantable support systems. The technical and engineering challenges to produce a successful permanent artificial heart are significant but provide an exciting field of research for what we believe is an achievable goal.