cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors in cutaneous biology.

Summary Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are ligand-activated transcription factors that regulate the expression of target genes involved in many cellular functions including cell proliferation, differentiation and immune/inflammation response. The PPAR subfamily consists of three isotypes: PPARα, PPARβ/δ and PPARγ, which have all been identified in keratinocytes. PPARβ/δ is the predominant subtype in human keratinocytes, whereas PPARα and PPARγ are expressed at much lower levels and increase significantly upon keratinocyte differentiation. PPARβ/δ is not linked to differentiation, but is significantly upregulated upon various conditions that result in keratinocyte proliferation, and during skin wound healing. In vitro and in vivo evidence suggests that PPARs appear to play an important role in skin barrier permeability, inhibiting epidermal cell growth, promoting epidermal terminal differentiation and regulating skin inflammatory response by diverse mechanisms. These proprieties are pointing in the direction of PPARs being key regulators of skin conditions characterized by hyperproliferation, inflammatory infiltrates and aberrant differentiation such as psoriasis, but may also have clinical implications in inflammatory skin disease (e.g. atopic dermatitis), proliferative skin disease, wound healing, acne and protease inhibitor associated lipodystrophia.
Surfactant-mediated electrodeposition of a water-oxidizing manganese oxide.

Splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen is one of the most promising ways of storing energy from intermittent, renewable sources in the future. Toward this goal, development of inexpensive, stable, and non-toxic catalysts for water oxidation is crucial. We report that the electrodeposition of manganese oxide in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) produces a material that is highly active for electrocatalytic water oxidation at pH near 7 and remains stable for over 24 hours of sustained electrolysis. Clark electrode measurements demonstrate more than 95% Faradaic efficiency for oxygen evolution after an initial charging period. We found that catalytic performance was optimized in films prepared by electrodeposition using a precursor solution containing moderate concentration of substrates, namely 25 mM Mn2+ and 25 mM SDS. Microstructure and elemental analyses revealed that the deposited material, a mixed-phase manganese oxide, is structurally similar to materials used for electrochemical capacitors and batteries, drawing a parallel between highly studied cathode materials for rechargeable batteries and heterogeneous catalysts for water oxidation.
A General Model for the Performance of Disk Systems

The performance of a disk system is often measured in terms of the length of the waiting line or queue of requests for each of the system's spindles. Thus it is natural to formulate and analyze queueing models of disk systems. While most disk systems have certain characteristics, such as channel interference and concurrent seeks, in common, previous analyses have always been begun from scratch, without exploiting this commonality. We introduce a general queueing model for disk systems, which incorporates the characteristics common to most disk systems, and use it in the approximate analyses of models of the IBM 2314 and 3330 disk systems. Comparisons with simulation statistics show that the approximations made are very good over a wide range of arrival rates and system parameters. We also show how to use the analytic results to investigate performance differences between devices.
Cell-matrix adhesion receptors: relevance to glomerular pathology.

T HE SHAPE of solid organs is maintained because of the adherence of cells to each other and to the matrix. This cell-cell and cellmatrix adherence is mediated by a series of cell membrane proteins known as adhesion molecules. Although adhesion molecules might be viewed simply as the glue that maintains the shape of solid organs, it is now clear that the function of these adhesion molecules is far more complex. It is the purpose of this review to examine the role of cell-matrix adhesion, with special emphasis on the role of {j 1 integrins,1,2 in kidney physiology and pathology. This review will not discuss {j2 or {j3 integrins, which may play an important role in mediating cell-cell and cell-matrix interaction during inflammation.2-4 Integrins are a family of related proteins that participate in cell adhesion and have common structural characteristics. I ,2 Integrins are composed of two noncovalently linked protein chains, a and {j. At least eight distinct (j chains have been identified, which share a high degree of homology.2,4-6 Integrins are generally subclassified into (1) {j 1 integrins, which share the {j 1 chain and participate mainly in cell-matrix interactions l ,2; (2) {j2 integrins, which share the {j2 chain and participate mainly in cell-cell interactions; 7 and (3) {j3 integrins, which share the {j3 chain and have variable adhesive functions. This classification of integrins, although useful, is not entirely satisfactory. For example, a chains from one integrin subgroup can be associated with several different {j chains. Furthermore, the association of a particular a chain with different {j chains
The XPC poly-AT polymorphism in non-melanoma skin cancer.

Abstract Signature UV-DNA lesions, cyclobutane dimers and 6–4 photoproducts, are repaired via the nucleotide excision repair pathway. NER may be subdivided into transcription-coupled repair and global genome repair, and the XPC protein is specific to this latter repair pathway recognizing helix distorting lesions and initiating their repair. Inactivating XPC mutations are associated with xeroderma pigmentosa and an extremely high risk of skin cancer. A common polymorphism in intron 9 of the XPC gene has been associated with both reduced repair of UV-DNA damage (using the host-cell reactivation assay) and increased risk of squamous cell head and neck cancer. Here, we have tested the hypothesis that the XPC PAT+ polymorphism is associated with non-melanoma skin cancer using a population-based case control study of skin cancer in New Hampshire ( n =1917). Overall, there was a modest decreased risk of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) among those with the homozygous variant PAT+/+ genotype (OR 0.8, 95% CI 0.5–1.1) that was most evident among tanners (OR 0.4, 95% CI 0.1–1.1), however, these trends failed to reach statistical significance. There was no association of the PAT+/+ genotype and basal cell carcinoma (OR 1.0, 95% CO 0.7–1.3), however there was a modest, non-statistically significant, decreased risk among those with the heterozygous genotype (OR 0.8, 95% CI 0.7–1.1). We did not detect gene environment interactions for either SCC or BCC between the XPC PAT genotype and average hours of UV exposure per week, painful sunburn history, nor ionizing radiation therapy. These results suggest that the XPC PAT+polymorphism does not play a major role in non-melanoma skin cancer, but that it may slightly modify the risk of SCC among individuals with a phenotype which results in low UV-DNA adduct burdens. These results require further confirmation.
Optimization of distributed generation penetration based on particle filtering

Distributed generation is small scale power cogeneration within an integrated energy network, that provides system wide and environmental benefits. Network benefits include enhancements to reliability, reduction of peak power requirements, improved power quality and enhanced resilience. Environmental benefits include better land use for transmission and distribution, and reduced ecological impact. Deploying distributed generation affects the power loss in the system and has an associated cost. Therefore, optimization of the penetration level of the distributed generation should consider both goals of minimizing total power loss and minimizing total operational costs. In this study, we propose a novel multi-objective optimization framework based on particle filtering to evaluate the effects of adding distributed generation to a networked system in terms of power loss and operational costs, simultaneously. The proposed framework has been demonstrated on the IEEE-30 bus system yielding to minimal power losses of 2.075 MW and minimal costs of $547.51 per hour.
Neural network design using linear programming and relaxation

Two new approaches to designing Hopfield neural networks using linear programming and relaxation are presented. These approaches are shown to be the natural ones given the form of the network dynamics. Computer simulations show that linear programming and relaxation are more effective than the sum of outer products rule in that they provide a larger capacity for the network. The new approaches are also shown to make the design process very flexible: they can guarantee that the given memories are all fixed points, they can incorporate a minimum radius of attraction, and they can accommodate restricted connectivities or regular network topologies. Statistical experiments are presented to illustrate these claims. >
IDENTIFICATION OF THE GASTROESOPHAGEAL MUCOSAL JUNCTION BY TRANSMUCOSAL POTENTIAL IN HEALTHY SUBJECTS AND PATIENTS WITH HIATAL HERNIA.

Summary The purpose of this investigation was to determine whether the contrasting transmucosal potentials of the stomach and the esophagus can be used to identify the gastroesophageal mucosal junction. To relate changes in the potential difference (PD) to other characteristics of the junctional zone, pressure and pH determinations were made simultaneously with those of PD. Observations were made during fasting on 18 healthy persons, 5 dogs, and 12 patients with hiatal hernia. A zone of elevated pressure was found at the junctional region in the healthy persons and the dogs. The PD changed within the region of elevated pressure. The greatest change was at the physiologic hiatus (site of respiratory reversal) or just distal to it. The pH in the healthy persons and the dogs usually changed within the zone of elevated pressure, and, as with PD, the greatest change usually occurred just distal to the point of respiratory reversal. In some tests, an acid pH extended into the esophagus. When the gastroesophageal junction was visualized in an anesthetized dog with the exploring electrode previously fixed at the site of maximal change in PD, the electrode was found within 5 mm of the mucosal junction. Pressure characteristics indicative of hiatal hernia were detected in the 12 patients known to have hiatal hernia. In these patients, the site of greatest change in PD was shifted to the proximal region of the zone, indicating displacement of the mucosal junction into the chest. An acid pH in the esophagus was common in the patients with hiatal hernia.
A new approach toward modeling causality in commonsense reasoning

This article examines the issue of causality in commonsense reasoning and proposes a connectionist approach for modeling commonsense causal reasoning. Based on an analysis of the advantages and limitations of existing accounts, especially Shoham's logic, a generalized rule-based model FEL is proposed that can take into account the inexactness and the cumulative evidentiality of commonsense reasoning; this model corresponds naturally to a connectionist architecture. Detailed analyses are performed to show how the model handles commonsense causal reasoning. This work shows that a logic-based account of causality can be viewed as an (over)idealization of a more realistic model, which is simpler in form but deals with causality better. This work directly maps a (causal) rule-encoding scheme into a connectionist model; thus, it serves to link rule-based reasoning to connectionist models, notably with direct one-to-one correspondence between the basic structures of the two formalisms. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Noise characteristics of DC-DC boost converters: an experimental validation study

The purpose of this paper is to quantify existing random noise in a pulse-width modulated (PWM) switching DC-DC boost converter. We propose a model from a different perspective. An experimental study is performed to measure and characterize random noise on system parameters of a boost converter. Experimental results show that the characteristics of random noise in the converter are Gaussian distributed. The paper uses stochastic differential equations to incorporate the random noise into system dynamics. These disturbances are modeled as a random process due to switching time uncertainties. This model can be used to quantify the stability of a converter that is directly affected by random fluctuations in realistic situations.
Psychometrics of the Drinker Inventory of Consequences (DrInC)

The Drinker Inventory of Consequences (DrInC) was developed for Project MATCH to assess the consequences of drinking in five domains. The present study, using baseline data from the 1382 participants involved in the COMBINE Study, analyzed the psychometrics of the 50-item DrInC and its shorter form, the 15-item SIP. Findings indicate the DrInC is reliable, valid, and clinically useful and that DrInC subscales are internally consistent and non-redundant. In an examination of the shorter version of the DrInC, findings suggest that the SIP is suitable when assessing the overall level of drinking-related consequences.
Towards comprehensive social sharing of recommendations: augmenting push with pull

On today's online social networks, a user can discover only those recommendations that her friends put in the effort to share. Therefore, we present the PullRec framework for enabling users to pull recommendations from their friends. PullRec employs two measures to minimize the effort involved in sharing recommendations. First, to reduce the onus on users to express their recommendations, PullRec proactively logs all the entities about which a user may have an opinion and attempts to infer the user's opinions. Second, to ensure that users are not spammed with irrelevant queries, when a user queries for recommendations on a certain topic, PullRec notifies only those friends of the user who are likely to have relevant recommendations. PullRec is a step towards enabling a user to discover all recommendations that her friends are willing to share with her.
THE UNITS OF SELECTION ON MITOCHONDRIAL DNA

▪ Abstract Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) exists in a nested hierarchy of populations. There are multiple mtDNAs within each mitochondrion, a population of mitochondria in each cell, multiple oocytes within each reproductive female, multiple females in each population, and so on up through species and higher clades. The metabolic properties of mitochondria make them highly mutagenic environments for the naked, circular mtDNAs that lie within them. This mutational pressure introduces mtDNA variation (i.e., heteroplasmy) into the cytoplasmic population of cell lineages that are particularly prone to mutational decay and Muller's ratchet owing to the asexual, maternal inheritance of mtDNA. Neutrality tests show that deleterious mutations are common in mtDNA evolution. Population cage experiments further show that mtDNA fitnesses are influenced by nuclear-mitochondrial interactions. These selective processes are pervasive despite the long-standing use of mtDNA as a neutral marker in population and evolutionary bio...
Great earthquakes and subduction along the Peru trench

Subduction along the Peru trench, between 9 and 15° S. involves both large interplate underthrusting earthquakes and intraplate normal-fault earthquakes. The four largest earthquakes along the Peru trench are, from north to south, the 1970 (M~ 7.9) intraplate normal-fault earthquake, and the interplate underthrusting earthquakes in 1966 (M~ = 8.0), 1940 (M = 8) and 1974 (M~ = 8.0). We have studied the rupture process of these earthquakes and can locate spatial concentrations of moment release through directivity analysis of source-time functions deconvolved from long-period P-wave seismograms. The 1966 earthquake has a source duration of 45 s with most of the moment release concentrated near the epicenter. Two intraplate normal-fault events occurred in 1963 (M~ = 6.7 and 7.0), at the down-dip edge of the 1966 dominant asperity. The 1940 earthquake is an underthrusting event with a simple source time function of 30 s duration that represents the rupture of a single asperity near the epicenter. The 1974 earthquake has a source duration of 45—50s and two pulses of moment release. This earthquake has a bilateral rupture with the first pulse of moment release located northwest of the epicenter and the second pulse of moment release located southeast of the epicenter. Both pulses of moment release occur on the northern half of the aftershock area. The 1970 earthquake is one of the largest intraplate normal-fault earthquakes to occur in a subduction zone and has a moment release comparable with many large underthrusting events. The aftershocks for the 1970 earthquake form two distinct clusters, the smaller cluster near the epicenter has focal mechanisms characterized by down-dip tension but the second aftershock cluster, located 80 km southeast of the epicenter, has focal mechanisms characterized by down-dip compression. The P-waves for the main shock can be modeled as two sources with different focal mechanisms and depths similar to the two clusters of aftershocks. The first event has a down-dip tensional focal mechanism and is followed 40 s later by a distinct second event located 80 km southeast of the epicenter with a down-dip compressional focal mechanism and a somewhat shallower depth than the first event. The observable directivity indicates that the second source is located at the second cluster of aftershocks that have down-dip compressional focal mechanisms. The occurrence of both down-dip tensional and compressional focal mechanisms may be explained by extreme ‘unbending’ stresses associated with the anomalous slab geometry. The unusually large size of the 1970 earthquake may also be related to the subduction of the Mendana fracture zone. The historic earthquake record along the Peru trench indicates that the previous event in 1746 was much larger than any of the three underthrusting earthquakes this century. The 1746 earthquake may have ruptured the entire segment in a multiple asperity earthquake. Thus, the mode of rupture along the Peru coast has changed between successive earthquake cycles.
Analysis of the hyperfine structure of the mercury 6 3 D 3 → 6 3 P 2 transition*

The 63D3 → 63P2 (3650 A) line of mercury has been fully analyzed using both conventional high-resolution photographic techniques and a piezo-electrically scanned Fabry–Perot spectrometer system with photoelectric detection. Pure and enriched isotope lamps were used to isolate and identify the transitions of the 199 and 201 isotopes and to measure the isotope shifts of the even-mass isotopes. Isotope shifts of 7 ± 1 mK per unit atomic mass were found. The 3/2–5/2, 5/2–7/2, and 7/2–9/2 energy differences in the 3D3 state of the 201Hg isotope are, respectively, 206 ± 2, 287 ± 3, and 367 ± 6 mK. The A and B nuclear-moment terms of this state for the 201 isotope are A = −81.8 ± 1 mK and B = +2.0 ± 0.4 mK. Computer fits of the Fabry–Perot spectra of natural mercury were attempted. All transitions fit predicted intensities except for the strong lines that significantly overlap with each other. Within this group of lines there is strong reabsorption. This is a direct consequence of the unique overlap of the most intense transitions caused by small isotope shift and the lack of radiative decay processes for depopulation of the lower state.
How to estimate energy lost to gravitational waves

The energy-momentum radiated in gravitational waves by an isolated source is given by a formula of Bondi. This formula is highly nonlocal: the energy-momentum is not given as the integral of a well-defined local density. It has therefore been unclear whether the Bondi formula can be used to get information from gravity-wave measurements. In this article, we obtain, from local knowledge of the radiation field, a lower bound on the Bondi flux.
Analysis of 125Xe electron–photon coincidence decay

As part of the verification component of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT), environmental gas samples originating from nuclear fission are analyzed for the presence of 131mXe, 133mXe, 133Xe, and 135Xe. In this work, the non-traditional radioxenon isotope 125Xe was investigated. The isotope was produced as an isotopically pure sample via neutron activation of 124Xe at the University of Texas at Austin Nuclear Engineering Teaching Lab’s TRIGA MARK II Reactor. The sample was then measured using a HPGe detector as well as an ARSA-style β–γ coincidence detector. Potential sources and sensitivities for production of 125Xe are also considered for relevance to the CTBT verification mission.
Isolated rat liver preparation; bile production and other basic properties.

Summary(1) It has been shown that the isolated, perfused rat liver can be maintained under conditions which permit the continuous production of bile for periods up to 25 hours. (2) Livers thus maintained preserve an apparently normal histology up to the terminal phase. (3) The reticulo-endothelial cells of such perfused livers retain their ability to remove particulate matter from the perfusate stream. (4) Bromsulfalein is extracted from the perfusate by the isolated liver, and is re-excreted into the bile in high concentration and in several separable components, analogous to those found in the intact animal. (5) Data have been presented to permit a comparison of the conditions of operation and the performance of the isolated rat liver, and the liver in situ in the intact animal. (6) Details of the method of preparation, the perfusion pump, and the perfusion media have been presented, together with specific data concerning the course of typical experiments. (7) The range of applicability of the preparati...
EFFECTS OF ELECTROLYTES UPON ADIPOSE TISSUE MEMBRANE ELECTRICAL POTENTIALS.

SummaryAdipose tissue transmembrane or resting electrical potential (REP) of young rats is decreased by elevation of K+. Substitution of medium high in Na+ for one high in K+ restored the REP to its control level or slightly higher. Adipose tissue from aged rats did not demonstrate any significant change of REP in response to alteration of K+ or Na+.
Directing Self-Assembly of DNA Nanotubes Using Programmable Seeds

Control over when and where nanostructures arise is essential for the self-assembly of dynamic or multicomponent devices. We design and construct a DNA origami seed for the control of DAE-E tile DNA nanotube assembly. Seeds greatly accelerate nanotube nucleation and growth because they serve as nanotube nucleation templates. Seeds also control nanotube circumference. Simulations predict nanotube growth rates and suggest a small nucleation barrier remains when nanotubes grow from seeds.
Wavenumber-frequency Spectra of Pressure Fluctuations Measured via Fast Response Pressure Sensitive Paint

The recent advancement in fast-response Pressure-Sensitive Paint (PSP) allows time-resolved measurements of unsteady pressure fluctuations from a dense grid of spatial points on a wind tunnel model. This capability allows for direct calculations of the wavenumber-frequency (k-ω) spectrum of pressure fluctuations. Such data, useful for the vibro-acoustics analysis of aerospace vehicles, are difficult to obtain otherwise. For the present work, time histories of pressure fluctuations on a flat plate subjected to vortex shedding from a rectangular bluff-body were measured using PSP. The light intensity levels in the photographic images were then converted to instantaneous pressure histories by applying calibration constants, which were calculated from a few dynamic pressure sensors placed at selective points on the plate. Fourier transform of the time-histories from a large number of spatial points provided k-ω spectra for pressure fluctuations. The data provides first glimpse into the possibility of creating detailed forcing functions for vibro-acoustics analysis of aerospace vehicles, albeit for a limited frequency range.
Improved cleanup for liquid chromatographic analysis and fluorescence detection of aflatoxins M1 and M2 in fluid milk products

Description d'une technique d'isolement et purification de ces 2 mycotoxines par une double chromatographie en colonne
PRACTICAL RATIONALITY, MORALITY, AND PURELY JUSTIFICATORY REASONS

Because the normative notions of practical and theoretical rationality seem, due to their respective names, to be species of one genus, it is often assumed that there should be a very strong parallel between the two notions. In particular, it is often assumed that for practical rationality, the business of normative reasons is to count in favor of (or against) doing something, and that for theoretical rationality, the business of normative reasons is to count in favor of (or against) believing something. And in both cases it is assumed that reasons do this by providing justification which either is requirement, or which would tend, if the reasons became stronger or more numerous, to mount in strength and become requirement. A closely related position holds that if a belief is held for no reason, or if an action is done for no reason, then the respective belief or action is unjustified and irrational. As more theoretical reasons are found for the belief, or as more practical reasons are found for the action, or as existing reasons become stronger, the belief or the action becomes increasingly justified . If the justification becomes strong enough, then the belief or the action is required . The above position, that sufficient justifying reasons will always yield requirement, is consistent with two interpretations. The first interpretation, (a), allows some actions and beliefs to be justified but not required.
The Brand-As-Verb Phenomenon, Our Genericidal Pastime: Searching for the Truth Behind Googling, Xeroxing, Fedexing, and Much More

Though much of the marketing literature has focused upon brand names and the importance of preventing genericization, this perception not only fails to take into account the value created by brand genericization, but also specifically to address the value created by the phenomenon known as “brand-as-verb.” This phenomenon offers not only insight into customer co-creation, but the fundamental premises of Service Dominant Logic, namely the concept that the category of products traditionally labeled, “goods,” subsumes into that of services (Vargo and Lusch 2004).
Analytical investigation of high temperature 1 kW solid oxide fuel cell system feasibility in methane hydrate recovery and deep ocean power generation

Methane hydrates are potential valuable energy resources. However, finding an efficient method for methane gas recovery from hydrate sediments is still a challenge. New challenges arise from increasing environmental protection. This is due in part to the technical difficulties involved in the efficient dissociation of methane hydrates at high pressures. In this study, a new approach is proposed to produce valuable products of: 1. Net methane gas recovery from the methane hydrate sediment, and 2. Deep ocean power generation. We have taken the first steps toward utilization of a fuel cell system in methane gas recovery from deep ocean hydrate sediments. An integrated high pressure and high temperature solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) and steam methane reformer (SMR) system is analyzed for this application and the recoverable amount of methane from deep ocean sediments is measured. System analysis is accomplished for two major cases regarding system performance: 1. Energy for SMR is provided by the burning part of the methane gas dissociated from the hydrate sediment. 2. Energy for SMR is provided through heat exchange with fuel cell effluent gases. We found that the total production of methane gas is higher in the first case compared to the second case. The net power generated by the fuel cell system is estimated for all cases. The primary goal of this study is to evaluate the feasibility of integrated electrochemical devices to accomplish energy efficient dissociation of methane hydrate gases in deep ocean sediments. Concepts for use of electrochemical devices (e.g., high temperature fuel cells) for methane gas recovery from hydrates and efficient electricity production from the released gases are developed. The technical feasibility of these integrated systems for operation in hydrate reservoirs in deep ocean sediments was then evaluated using combined systems of thermodynamic and heat transfer equations, which are presented in detail.
Exploring growth conditions and Eu2+ concentration effects for KSr2I5:Eu scintillator crystals

Abstract Our current research is focused on understanding dopant optimization, growth rate, homogeneity and their impact on the overall performance of KSr 2 I 5 :Eu 2+ single crystal scintillators. In this work we have investigated the effects of Eu 2+ concentration in the potassium strontium iodide matrix, and we found that the concentration needed to maximize the light yield was 4 mol%. In order to assess the effects of the pulling rate, we grew single crystals at 12, 24 and 120 mm/day via the vertical Bridgman technique. For the sample sizes measured (5×5×5 mm 3 ), we found that the crystal grown at the fastest rate of 120 mm/day showed a light yield within ~7% of the more slowly grown boules, and no significant change was observed in the energy resolution. Therefore, light yields from 88,000 to 96,000 ph/MeV and energy resolutions from 2.4 to 3.0% (at 662 keV) were measured for KSr 2 I 5 :Eu 4% over a relatively wide range of growth conditions. In order to assess the homogeneity of KSr 2 I 5 :Eu 4%, a newly developed micro-resolution X-ray technique was used to map the light yield as a function of excitation position. In the crystals that we studied, we did not observe any significant inhomogeneity other than a smooth gradient due to light collection and self absorption effects.
Vanadium dioxide reconfigurable slot antenna

A novel method for reconfigurable antennas that utilize the unique properties of phase-change materials has recently been demonstrated using a metallic bowtie dipole antenna. Here, a reconfigurable coplanar folded slot antenna prototype with Vanadium Dioxide (VO 2 ) is presented. The antenna has the ability to alter its resonant frequency with temperature. The main design methodology and design characteristics are presented. This technology can lead to advanced designs and devices that employ phase-change materials as their reconfiguration method. Additional results from different antennas, integration challenges, and potential capabilities will be presented.
A Correction and Some Comments on the Article “Polynomially Complex Synthesis of Distributed Supervisors for Large-Scale AMSs Using Petri Nets”

The main purpose of this correspondence is to point out the fallacy of Theorem 1 in the paper that is mentioned in the title, a result that attempts to provide a structural characterization for the liveness of the Petri net class considered in the manuscript. The closing part of the correspondence also takes this opportunity to make some further remarks on the results that are claimed in the paper.
Unraveling Castleman: progress in a complex process

In this issue of Blood , [Yu et al][1] report on the clinical and pathologic features, as well as the treatment outcomes of a large patient population with Castleman disease (CD), negative for HIV and human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8).[1][2] CD was very first described by Benjamin Castleman more than 60
Practical Hermeneutics: the Legal Text and Beyond

This article attempts to show the continuing practical relevance of hermeneutics through the example of legal interpretation. The article begins with the very concrete nature of legal hermeneutics ...
A Simple Approach to Prepare Carboxycellulose Nanofibers from Untreated Biomass.

A simple approach was developed to prepare carboxycellulose nanofibers directly from untreated biomass using nitric acid or nitric acid-sodium nitrite mixtures. Experiments indicated that this approach greatly reduced the need for multichemicals, and offered significant benefits in lowering the consumption of water and electric energy, when compared with conventional multiple-step processes at bench scale (e.g., TEMPO oxidation). Additionally, the effluent produced by this approach could be efficaciously neutralized using base to produce nitrogen-rich salts as fertilizers. TEM measurements of resulting nanofibers from different biomasses, possessed dimensions in the range of 190–370 and 4–5 nm, having PDI = 0.29–0.38. These nanofibers exhibited lower crystallinity than untreated jute fibers as determined by TEM diffraction, WAXD and 13C CPMAS NMR (e.g., WAXD crystallinity index was ∼35% for nanofibers vs 62% for jute). Nanofibers with low crystallinity were found to be effective for removal of heavy metal...
A highly selective and sensitive LC–MS/HRMS assay for quantifying coproporphyrins as organic anion-transporting peptide biomarkers

AIM Coproporphyrin-I (CP-I) and coproporphyrin-III (CP-III) in plasma and urine have been proposed as biomarkers for assessing drug-drug interactions involving hepatic drug transporters such as organic anion-transporting peptides (OATP), 1B1 and 1B3. Materials & methods: Plasma and urine extracts were analyzed for CP-I/CP-III using a TripleTOF API6600 mass spectrometer. Results: Previously unreported, CP-I/CP-III doubly charged ions (m/z 328.14) were used as precursor ions to improve the assay sensitivity and selectivity over the singly charged precursor ions (m/z 655.28). Levels of CP-I and CP-III measured ranged 0.45-1.1 and 0.050-0.50 ng/ml in plasma and 5-35 and 1-35 ng/ml in urine, respectively. CONCLUSION The described highly selective and sensitive CP-I/CP-III LC-HRMS assay offers options for earlier characterization and clinical safety projections for OATP1B1/3-mediated drug-drug interactions along with pharmacokinetic analyses of a new chemical entity as part of first-in-human clinical studies.
Practice patterns in the emergency care of kidney stone patients: an analysis of the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NHAMCS).

INTRODUCTION The emergency department (ED) is a common setting for evaluation of patients with urolithiasis based on acute symptoms and a propensity for recurrent disease. We sought to characterize practice patterns in the emergency treatment of stone disease, and to identify potential disparities in care based on non-medical factors. MATERIALS AND METHODS We performed a cross-sectional analysis of ED visits using the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey from 2005-2009. Visits with a diagnosis of urolithiasis were identified. The associations between patient, provider and institutional characteristics were analyzed with regard to timing of clinical assessment, use of diagnostic imaging, and use of medical expulsive therapy (MET). RESULTS The likelihood of a delay in clinical assessment ranged from 30.8%-37.9%. Neither patient nor provider characteristics were associated with a delay in assessment, although urban location (p = 0.004) was more likely, and proprietary ownership was less likely (p = 0.002) to be associated with delay. Factors associated with use of CT included ambulance arrival (p = 0.043), initial ED visit (p = 0.000), and Northeast region (p = 0.030). Patients seen by a resident/intern were more likely to receive MET (p = 0.028). Overall, 10.8% of patients were presenting for follow up treatment, and 7.1% had been seen in the same ED within the last 72 hours. CONCLUSIONS Kidney stones are associated with a high rate of repeated presentations to the ED. Certain non-medical factors did impact details of management. Future efforts should focus on optimizing clinical pathways to improve the efficiency of acute care for kidney stone patients.
Neurofunctional Correlates of Response to Quetiapine in Adolescents with Bipolar Depression.

Abstract Objectives: Prior studies have shown that youth with bipolar disorder demonstrate neurofunctional changes in key prefrontal and subcortical brain regions implicated in emotional regulation...
PHYSIOLOGICAL ADAPTATION OF CANCER IRRORATUS LARVAE TO CYCLIC TEMPERATURES

ABSTRACT Larvae of the sublittoral crab, Cancer irroratus , cultured under the daily cyclic temperatures developed at a faster rate with enhanced survival than those larvae at a comparable constant temperature. The metabolic-temperature responses of the larvae cultured in the cyclic regime were altered relative to those at the constant temperature. These alterations included an extension of metabolic rate compensation towards higher temperatures with a Q 10 close to unity and a shift of tolerance range to higher temperatures. The differential responses in metabolic adaptation of the larval stages at daily cyclic and constant temperatures were accompanied by changes in activity of the enzyme systems examined. Reorganization of metabolism by cyclic temperature-induced biochemical changes appear to adapt larvae for development with enhanced survival under fluctuating temperatures.
Texture Partitioning and Packing for Accelerating Texture-based Volume Rendering.

To apply empty space skipping in texture-based volume rendering, we partition the texture space with a box-growing algorithm. Each sub-texture comprises of neighboring voxels with similar densities and gradient magnitudes. Sub-textures with similar range of density and gradient magnitude are then packed into larger ones to reduce the number of textures. The partitioning and packing is independent on the transfer function. During rendering, the visibility of the boxes are determined by whether any of the enclosed voxel is assigned a non-zero opacity by the current transfer function. Only the subtextures from the visible boxes are blended and only the packed textures containing visible sub-textures reside in the texture memory. We arrange the densities and the gradients into separate textures to avoid storing the empty regions in the gradient texture, which is transfer function independent. The partitioning and packing can be considered as a lossless texture compression with an average compression rate of 3.1:1 for the gradient textures. Running on the same hardware and generating identical images, the proposed method however renders 3 to 6 times faster on average than traditional approaches for various datasets in different rendering modes.
Nanoscale Investigation of Surfactant-Enhanced Solubilization of Asphaltenes from Silicate-Rich Rocks

The main goal of this study was to investigate the impact of two nonionic surfactants on the solubilization of dense nonaqueous phase liquids (DNAPL) found in crude oils, namely, asphaltenes, from silicate-rich rocks with different mineralogy, pore topology, and wettability states (Bentheimer and Arkose). The surfactants consisted of n-dodecyl β-D-maltoside and triton X-100, which displayed similar properties with the exception of their hydrogen-bonding ability. High-resolution microscope imaging, wettability measurements, and spontaneous imbibition tests were conducted to study the performance of these surfactants on DNAPL solubilization. The interactions between asphaltene molecules, surfactants, and a mineral surface with H-bonding ability were further examined at the molecular-level using molecular dynamics simulations. The results revealed that maltoside could restore the wettability of both sandstones to a higher extent than triton because of its high H-bonding ability with the silanol groups of qua...
Success of a South-South collaboration on Human Resources Information Systems (HRIS) in health: a case of Kenya and Zambia HRIS collaboration.

Shortage of health workforce in most African countries is a major impediment to achieving health and development goals. Countries are encouraged to develop evidence-based strategies to scale up their health workforce in order to bridge the gap. South-South collaborations have gained popularity due to similarities in the challenges faced in the region. This strategy has been used in trade, education, and health sector among others. This paper is a road map of using a South-South collaboration to develop a Human Resources Information System (HRIS) to inform scale-up of the health workforce. In the last decade, Kenya implemented one of the most comprehensive HRIS in Africa. The HRIS was funded by the US President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and implemented by Emory University. The Kenyan team collaborated with the Zambian team to establish a similar HRIS in Zambia. This case study describes the collaboration activities between Zambia and Kenya which included needs assessment, establishment of project office, stakeholders’ sensitization, technical assistance and knowledge transfer, software reuse, documents and guidelines reuse, project structure and management, and project formative evaluation. Furthermore, it highlights the need for adopting effective communication strategies, collaborative planning, teamwork, willingness to learn, and having minimum technical skills from the recipient country as lessons learned from the collaboration. As a result of the collaboration, while Kenya took 5 years, Zambia was able to implement the project within 2 years which is less than half the time it took Kenya. This case presents a unique experience in the use of South-South collaboration in establishing a HRIS. It illustrates the steps and resources needed while identifying the successes and challenges in undertaking such collaboration.
Heavy actinide production from the interactions of 40Ar with 248Cm and a comparison with the 44Ca-248Cm system.

Excitation functions have been measured for isotopes of Bk, Cf, Es, and Fm produced from the interactions of 207- to 286-MeV $^{40}\mathrm{Ar}$ ions with $^{248}\mathrm{Cm}$. The measured isotopic distributions were found to be essentially symmetric with full widths at half maximum between 2.0 and 3.5 mass units. These results are comparable to those obtained in previous studies using $^{40,44,48}\mathrm{Ca}$ with $^{248}\mathrm{Cm}$. The maxima of the isotopic distributions from the $^{40}\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}^{248}$Cm system show shifts, to both heavier and lighter mass numbers, of 0 to 2 mass units relative to the corresponding maxima of the isotopic distributions from the $^{40,44,48}\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}^{248}$Cm systems.
How does the built environment affect interest in the ownership and use of self-driving vehicles?

Abstract Connected and automated (self-driving) vehicles (CAVs and AVs) will soon become a viable mode option, though their exact pattern of adoption and use is expected to vary based on consumer interests and concerns about the technology. Past work has shown the rate at which AVs are implemented depends on several factors, such as individual and household demographics and technology costs (Bansal and Kockelman, 2017; Lee et al., 2017; Daziano et al., 2017). This research analyzes another group of attributes that help predict how people will purchase and use AVs: land use characteristics. Here, the results of two large-scale preference surveys are used to estimate how land use characteristics impact Americans’ perceptions of, interest in, and willingness to pay for AV technology, while controlling for demographic attributes. Both surveys were conducted in 2017 and together represented over 4000 U.S. households. Statistical models like the ordered probit and multinomial logit are used to estimate the impacts of demographics and land use characteristics on AV-related behavior. Various land use variables arise as significant depending on the question being asked of the respondents. For example, poor job accessibility via automobile is associated with higher levels of interest in AVs, higher anticipated use of AV technology, a willingness-to-pay (WTP) for self-driving capability, and a greater reliance on AVs for some long-distance travel. This research provides metrics of practical (and statistical) significance of a suite of land use variables, relative to common demographic predictors, to identify for planners, engineers, policymakers, and others where the most rapid AV deployments will occur first.
Trends in Diagnostic Flexible Laryngoscopy and Videolaryngostroboscopy Utilization in the US Medicare Population.

Importance Diagnostic flexible laryngoscopy (DFL) is the second-most reimbursed procedure by Medicare in otolaryngology. However, the economic trends of this procedure on a population level are unknown. Objective To describe national- and state-level DFL and videolaryngostroboscopy (VLS) utilization and payment trends from 2000 to 2016 in the Medicare population. Design, Setting, and Participants This population-based, cross-sectional study of all Medicare beneficiaries from 2000 through 2016 found that at the national level the total absolute number of DFLs performed in the US Medicare population increased by 87% from 344 183 to 645 172 services, whereas total absolute payments for DFLs made by Medicare concurrently increased by 41% from $38 720 243 to $54 499 071. Rates of DLS and VLS categorized asCurrent Procedural Terminology (CPT)code 31575 and 31579, respectively. Analysis was carried out between November 18, 2018 and December 18, 2018. Exposures Diagnostic flexible laryngoscopy and VLS. Main Outcomes and Measures The DFL and VLS utilization rates, payments, and reimbursement rate trends were analyzed by year and state. Utilization was assessed for physician characteristics, including specialty and credentials. Results Nationally from 2000 to 2016 in the Medicare population, DFL utilization per Medicare enrollee increased 30% from 0.0087 to 0.0110 and payment per enrollee decreased 2% from $0.98 to $0.96, whereas VLS utilization and payment per enrollee both increased at least 300% during the same time period, with VLS procedure per enrollee and payment per enrollee increasing by 382% from 0.00028 to 0.0013 and 301% from $0.05 to $0.22, respectively. There was a weak correlation between reimbursement and utilization per enrollee for both DFL (r = 0.23; 95% CI, 0.12-0.34) and VLS (r = 0.26; 95% CI, 0.14-0.37) performed from 2012 to 2016. In 2016, the mean (SD) payment per DFL was $85.14 ($7.95), ranging from $65.45 in Puerto Rico to $104.82 in Washington, DC, a 1.6-fold difference. For VLS, there was a 2-fold difference between the lowest-reimbursing state, Maine ($92.20) and the highest, New York ($182.96). All US dollar values were uniformly adjusted for inflation to 2018 dollar values. Most DFLs in 2016 were performed by otolaryngologists (93.6%). Conclusions and Relevance The DFL utilization rates remained stable compared with VLS in the Medicare population from 2000 to 2016. There was a decrease in both DFL and VLS payments per procedure in the same time period and also weak correlations between reimbursement and utilization. Practice patterns and reimbursement varied geographically across the United States, though VLS exhibited significantly higher variation than DFL at the state level.