cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Real-Time Neural Network-Based Gait Phase Estimation Using a Robotic Hip Exoskeleton

Lower limb exoskeletons provide assistance during the gait cycle using a state variable, one in particular is gait phase. This is crucial for the exoskeleton controller to provide the user accurate assistance. Conventional methods often utilize an event marker to estimate gait phase by computing the average stride time. However, this strategy has limitations in adapting to dynamic speeds. We developed a sensor fusion-based neural network model to estimate the gait phase in real-time that can adapt to dynamic speeds ranging from 0.6 to 1.1 m/s. Ten able-bodied subjects walked with an exoskeleton using our estimator and were provided with corresponding torque assistance. Our best performing model had RMSE below 29 ms and 4% for real-time estimation and torque generation, respectively, reducing the estimation error by 36.0% ( ${p} ) and torque error by 40.9% ( ${p} ) compared to conventional methods. Our results indicate that creating a general user-independent model and additionally training on user-specific data outperforms the user-specific model and user-independent model. Our study validates the feasibility of using a sensor fusion-based machine learning model to accurately estimate the user’s gait phase and improve the controllability of a lower limb exoskeleton.
Laboratory evaluation of kidney function

Abstract The kidney is an organ that eliminates metabolic waste molecules into the urine and maintains the concentrations of many organic molecules and electrolytes in the blood. The principle biomarkers for glomerular filtration are blood creatinine and cystatin C. These biomarkers are used in equations to estimate glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), which is the best overall indicator of kidney function. Urine albumin and creatinine are reported as the albumin/creatinine ratio (ACR), which indicates kidney damage to either the glomerulus or tubules. Patients at risk for chronic kidney disease (CKD), such as diabetics, hypertensives, those with cardiovascular disease, and certain ethnic groups should be screened for CKD using eGFR and urine ACR to identify CKD early enough that intervention can slow or prevent progression to end-stage disease. This chapter reviews the role of urine total protein, biomarkers for acute kidney injury, and analysis of kidney stones.
White Matter Correlates of Suicidality in Adults With Bipolar Disorder Who Have Been Prospectively Characterized Since Childhood.

Abstract Background Prevention of suicide in individuals with early-onset bipolar disorder (BD) remains a challenge. Diffusion magnetic resonance imaging studies in BD have identified neural correlates of emotional dysregulation implicated in BD and suicide. Using diffusion magnetic resonance imaging, we sought to identify neural signatures of suicide attempts in adults with childhood-onset BD who have been clinically followed for up to 19 years as part of the COBY (Course and Outcome of Bipolar Youth) study. Methods Diffusion magnetic resonance imaging data were collected in 68 adults with BD: 20 in the suicide attempter (SA+) group and 48 in the non–suicide attempter (SA−) group. Multivariate analysis of covariance was used to identify the effect of group (SA+, SA−) on mean fractional anisotropy (indirect index of fiber collinearity) in key white matter tracts of emotional regulation. The effect of suicidal ideation and other clinical factors was further explored. False discovery rate was used to account for multiple comparison. Forty healthy control subjects were included. Results Analyses revealed a main effect of group on fractional anisotropy (F5,59 = 3.0, p = .017). Specifically, the SA+ group showed lower fractional anisotropy than the SA− and healthy control groups in the middle portion of the forceps minor (FMIN) (F1,63 = 8.5, p = .010) and in the anterior (F1,63 = 7.8, p = .010) and posterior (F1,63 = 8.7, p = .006) portion of the right cingulum bundle (CB). Abnormalities in the FMIN, but not CB, were also associated with suicidal ideation (F1,64 = 10.6, p = .002) and levels of emotional distress at scan. Conclusions FMIN and CB abnormalities have been associated with emotional dysregulation in BD. Our findings suggest that the FMIN may represent a generic marker of suicidal ideation and, more broadly, emotional distress, while CB may represent a specific marker of attempted suicide.
Comparison of Test Methodologies for Computing Bending and Shear Stiffness of Cross-Laminated Timber

Current testing methods for evaluating the out-of-plane bending and shear stiffness terms of cross-laminated timber (CLT) materials use a relatively long span panel. When new CLT layups and composites are proposed, especially when manufactured from pilot-scale facilities, the length requirement may be a barrier for material property evaluation. The purpose of this paper was to compare current bending and shear stiffness test methods of CLT with alternative forms, including a simultaneous calculation method and the five-point bending test, which uses a shorter beam than current testing methods. Both experimental evaluation and finite element modeling of the mechanical properties were used to compare the proposed test methods. In general, numerical and experimental results demonstrated that effective bending stiffness (EIeff) values of CLT panels evaluated by different test methods were similar (maximum 12.7 % difference). Effective bending and shear stiffness values from the finite element method (FEM) agreed with experimental results. FEM demonstrated that both the simultaneous solution and the five-point bending test can be used as alternative test methods for evaluation of the bending and shear stiffness for CLTs. However, the effective shear stiffness values of CLTs from current industry standards were at least 450 % less than both the experimental evaluation and FEM prediction.
Gun Studies and the Politics of Evidence

This review is about scholarly contributions to a hotly debated issue—gun policy. Teasing apart the politics of evidence within gun politics, it examines both how research agendas shape gun policy ...
81030 Utilizing a synergistic drug combination to target relapsed/refractory FLT3 mutant AML

ABSTRACT IMPACT: This work will help to understand a novel therapeutic approach to a common type of acute myeloid leukemia. OBJECTIVES/GOALS: FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3 (or FLT3) mutations occur in ˜30% of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cases. FLT3 tyrosine kinase domain (TKD) mutations are particularly important in relapsed/refractory FLT3 mutant AML, which portends poor prognosis. This study describes a therapeutic approach to overcoming resistance conferred by FLT3-TKD mutations. METHODS/STUDY POPULATION: To understand the efficacy of a novel type 1 FLT3 inhibitor (NCGC1481), as a monotherapy and combination therapy, several assays were utilized to interrogate functionality of these therapies. Cell lines and patient samples containing aspartate 835 to tyrosine mutations (D835Y, the most common TKD alteration) and phenylalanine 691 to leucine (F691L) were utilized to examine the effects of NCGC1481 with and without other targeted therapies like MEK inhibitors. Specifically, assays measuring viability, cell death using flow cytometry, in vitro clonogenicity, cellular signaling, and xenograft survival were examined in these FLT3-TKD AML models. Synergy was also measured using well described methods, which also allowed for appropriate dose finding for drug combination experiments. RESULTS/ANTICIPATED RESULTS: Our novel type 1 FLT3 inhibitor (NCGC1481) was particularly effective in the most common FLT3 TKD mutant, D835Y. NCGC1481 reduced viability and cell signaling, while also inducing cell death and prolonging xenograft survival in the FLT3-D835Y model system. In contrast, clinically approved FLT3 inhibitors were less effective at suppressing AML cells expressing FLT3-D835Y. In the case of FLT3-F691L, most of the FLT3 inhibitors tested, including NCGC1481, suppressed canonical FLT3 signaling, but did not significantly reduce viability or leukemic clonogenicity. However, when NCGC1481 was combined with other targeted agents like MEK inhibitors, at synergistic doses, eradication of the FLT3-F691L AML clone was substantially increased. DISCUSSION/SIGNIFICANCE OF FINDINGS: In AML, response to FLT3 inhibitor therapy is often short-lived, with resistance sometimes occurring via FLT3-TKD mutations. Given the dismal prognosis of relapsed FLT3 mutant AML, novel therapies are necessary. This study describes efficacy of a novel FLT3 inhibitor, along with its synergistic activity when combined with other targeted agents.
Факторы, ассоциированные с риском развития субклинического каротидного атеросклероза у вахтовых рабочих в Арктике

Objective. To determine the most unfavorable predictors of atherosclerotic plaque (ASP) in carotid arteries (CA) in rotational shift workers in the Arctic using traditional risk factors, clinical and instrumental methods of research. Design and methods . In 2010–2012, we randomly selected 424 males aged 30–59 years from 1708 rotational shift workers at the medical unit of the gas production company “Gazprom dobycha Yamburg” (Yamburg settlement, 68oN) and performed preventive medical examination. Subjects were divided into 2 groups according to blood pressure (BP) level. Group 1 included 294 patients with hypertension (HTN) of 1 or 2 stages > 140/90 mmHg and group 2 was comprised of 130 people with BP < 140/90 mmHg. The groups did not differ by age, total work experience in the Arctic and rotational shiftwork duration. Ultrasound examination of CA showed presence or absence of ASP and stenosis by NASCET method. In addition, we assessed traditional risk factors and performed 24-hour BP monitoring and blood tests including lipid spectrum, glucose level, creatinine. Results. ASP was found more often in subjects with HTN (group 1) than in people with normal BP in the same age group, 95 % CI 56–60 % vs 95 % CI 14–20 %, (p < 0,0001). The groups did not differ significantly in the nutritional habits (p = 0,067). At the same time, the rate of smoking (p = 0,039), low physical activity (p = 0,007), overweight (p < 0,0001) was significantly higher in group 1 compared to subjects with normal BP. According to multivariate analysis, three variables with the most significant predictors associated with ASP in CA with sensitivity 75,9 % were selected using step-by-step method: diastolic BP 24 (DBP24) (p < 0,0001), glucose (p = 0,017) and total cholesterol (p = 0,044). The linear function was obtained: F = –7,664 + 0,225 × Chol + 0,366 × Glu + 0,057 × DBP24, where the variable “Chol” is the level of total cholesterol in the blood in mmol/l; “Glu” — the level of blood glucose in mmol/l; “DBP24” — average 24-hour diastolic BP. Based on the model, we concluded that DBP24 increment by 1 mmHg increases the risk for developing ASB in CA by 5,9 %, OR = 1,059 (95 % CI: 1,033; 1,087); the increment in glucose and total cholesterol by 1 mmol/l increases the risk by 44,1 % and 25,2 %, respectively: OR = 1,441 (95 % CI: 1,084; 1,966), OR = 1,252 (95 % CI: 1,010; 1,565). Conclusions. Our data enable to determine the most unfavorable predictors of ASP in CA and can potentially serve as a guideline for early diagnosis and medical management to prevent cardiovascular diseases in rotational shift workers in the Arctic.
Evaluation of prescribing practices for gabapentin as an analgesic among veterinary professionals.

Abstract Objective To describe the prescribing practices for gabapentin as an analgesic within the veterinary community. Study design Anonymous online voluntary survey. Population A total of 718 veterinarians within the United States and Canada, including general practitioners and diplomates of the American Colleges of Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia, Emergency and Critical Care, Surgery and Internal Medicine. Methods An anonymous online survey was used to gather information about individual prescribing practices for gabapentin including frequency of use, reasons for prescribing and procedures for authorizing refill requests. Questions specific to gabapentin covered mechanisms of action, perceptions of efficacy and the potential for abuse in people. Dunn’s test for multiple comparisons and pairwise Mann–Whitney U test were used to evaluate relationships between veterinary specialty and survey responses. Results A total of 718 veterinarians responded to the survey, 528 (73.5%) answered all questions of the survey to completion. Frequency of prescribing was high with 365/529 (69.0%) of respondents prescribing gabapentin as an analgesic on a daily or weekly basis. Surgeons and general practitioners used gabapentin significantly more frequently than other groups, with surgeons more likely to prescribe gabapentin for postoperative pain. The most common reason [254/517 (49.1%)] survey respondents prescribed gabapentin as an analgesic was because administration of a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication was contraindicated for that animal. The majority of survey respondents [362/527 (68.7%)] considered the abuse potential of gabapentin to be low in people. Conclusions and clinical relevance Veterinary prescribing practices for gabapentin closely mirrored that of human physicians, with gabapentin being prescribed frequently and for uses largely unrelated to its labeled indication. The perception of the potential for abuse of gabapentin is low within the veterinary community.
The prevalence of pancreatic incidentalomas in patients undergoing surveillance for abdominal aortic aneurysms.

Abstract Background Serial imaging in patients with aortic aneurysms may identify non-vascular disease. However, the prevalence and clinical history of pancreatic incidentalomas in this population is unknown. Methods Retrospective cross-sectional study of adults who underwent computed tomography angiography (CTA) surveillance imaging for abdominal or thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm at a single academic institution between 2015 and 2020. Descriptive statistics were used for patients with pancreatic lesions. Results Of 249 patients, 18 (7.2 %) had a pancreatic incidentaloma. Compared to patients without a lesion, those with a lesion were more likely female (50.0 % vs 24.2 %, p = 0.02) and less likely a smoker (72.2 % vs 90.0 %, p = 0.02). 3 patients with pancreatic lesions underwent intervention, and 1 patient received additional imaging. 2 patients had a surgical oncology referral. Conclusions Pancreatic incidentalomas are common in patients with aortic aneurysm, but lesion characteristics and management vary. Results suggest that a multi-disciplinary approach, thorough documentation, and referral to pancreatic specialists may be warranted.
Continued Outbreak of Ceftriaxone-Resistant Salmonella enterica Serotype Typhi across Pakistan and Assessment of Knowledge and Practices among Healthcare Workers.

Pakistan is experiencing the first known outbreak of extensively drug-resistant (XDR) Salmonella enterica serotype Typhi (resistant to third-generation cephalosporins). The outbreak originated in Hyderabad in 2016 and spread throughout the Sindh Province. Whereas focus has remained on Sindh, the burden of XDR typhoid in Punjab, the most populous province, and the rest of the country is understudied. Using laboratory data from Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre in Lahore (Punjab Province) and its network of more than 100 collection centers across the country, we determined the frequency of blood culture-confirmed XDR typhoid cases from 2017 to 2019. We observed an increase in XDR typhoid cases in Punjab, with the percent of ceftriaxone resistance among Salmonella Typhi cases increasing from no cases in 2017, to 30% in 2018, and to 50% in 2019, with children bearing the largest burden. We also observed spread of XDR typhoid to the two other provinces in Pakistan. To assess prevailing knowledge and practices on XDR typhoid, we surveyed 321 frontline healthcare workers. Survey results suggested that inappropriate diagnostic tests and antibiotic practices may lead to underdiagnosis of XDR typhoid cases, and potentially drive resistance development and spread. Of those surveyed, only 43% had heard of XDR typhoid. Currently, serological tests are more routinely used over blood culture tests even though blood culture is imperative for a definitive diagnosis of typhoid fever. We recommend stronger liaisons between healthcare providers and diagnostic laboratories, and increased promotion of typhoid vaccination among healthcare workers and the general population.
Effect of Irradiation on the Biodegradation of Cellophane Films

Cellophane has extensively been used as a packaging material for food and pharmaceuticals as a replacement for petrochemical plastics. To improve its barrier properties, coatings are commonly applied to the surface of cellophane films. This layer, however, can hinder the biodegradation of cellophane. Irradiation, used as a sterilization technique, may also affect its biodegradation properties. The objective of this study was to examine the aerobic biodegradation of three different types of cellophane films: uncoated cellophane (CP), nitrocellulose-coated cellophane (CM), and PVdC-coated cellophane (CK) in a simulated aerobic composting environment using a direct measurement respirometric system, as well as to determine the influence of irradiation-induced sterilization (gamma and electron beam) on their biodegradability. The effect of post-irradiation aging on the biodegradability of these regenerated cellulose films was also investigated. Non-irradiated uncoated cellophane, non-irradiated nitrocellulose-coated cellophane and non-irradiated PVdC-coated cellophane approached 71, 55 and 63 % mineralization, respectively, after 141 days. Irradiated CP degraded faster than irradiated CM and CK after it had been stored for 9 months. Irradiation did not significantly affect the biodegradation of CM and CK films during 9 months of storage.
A lexical based semantic bias for theory revision

We present a new approach to theory revision that uses a lexically based semantics to help detect and correct errors in classification rules. The idea is that preferring lexically cohesive revisions will enhance the comprehensibility and ultimately the accuracy of rules. We explain how to associate terms in the rules with elements in a lexical class hierarchy and use distance within the hierarchy to estimate lexical cohesiveness. We evaluate the utility of this approach empirically using two relational domains.
Fully kinetic simulation of atmospheric pressure microcavity discharge device

In this talk we will present our recent work on simulating the discharge process in a microscale device using the PIC-DSMC simulation code Aleph. Microcavity discharges have been experimentally studied1,2 and computationally simulated3, but to our knowledge there have been no completely kinetic simulations. The nominal breakdown process under consideration occurs due to a large field applied across a dielectric spacer between anode and electrode surfaces. Ideally, one would be able to exhibit control over the plasma chemistry (e.g., selection of specific excitations) and predict spatial and temporal evolution. In particular, pre-initiation behavior, initiation itself, and convergence to a subsequent steady state will be presented. Scaled results and comparison to existing device measurements will also be provided.
Joint design on load balancing and survivability for resilient IP networks

Natural or artificial disasters often network service interruptions as well as packet and revenue losses. To alleviate the impact of failures on IP networks, many IP Fast ReRoute (IPFRR) approaches have been presented. In tunnel-based IPFRR schemes, upon the occurrence of a link failure, the nodes adjacent to the failed link are activated to encapsulate and reroute the affected traffic to the endpoint along the shortest path. Once the endpoint receives the affected traffic, it decapsulates and delivers the packets to the original destination along the shortest path. These shortest paths are computed based on link weights. The goal of this paper is to determine a set of link weights in a tunnel-based IPFRR system to jointly consider the two most significant issues: (1) load balancing and (2) survivability, i.e., coverage. We first formulate this problem as a mixed integer programming (MIP). Due to the NP-hard property of the MIP, a Joint Load balancing and Coverage for Tunnel-based (JLCT) fault recovery heuristic is proposed to approximate the solution of the MIP. Numerical results delineate that the proposed scheme efficiently improves conventional tunnel-based approaches on the rate of fault recovery and effectively balance link utilizations in the non-failure state.
Recent Applications of Gaseous Discharges: Dusty Plasmas and Upward-Directed Lightning

Intriguing phenomena have been recently observed in gaseous discharges which involve dust particles, and discharges which are produced in the ionosphere involving formation of upward-directed lightning.
A new density control algorithm for WSNs [wireless sensor networks]

In dense sensor networks, density control is an important technique for prolonging network lifetime while providing sufficient sensing coverage. We present a new density control algorithm called NODC (non-overlapping density control). The goal of NODC is maximizing coverage while avoiding the overlap of sensing areas of active sensors. We derive the optimality conditions and develop a distributed algorithm. Experimental results show that NODC can use up to 20% fewer active nodes than OGDC with less than 5% reduction in coverage.
US nuclear energy after Three Mile Island and Chernobyl

The current state of nuclear power in the US is explored with particular emphasis on the effects of the nuclear accidents at the Three Mile Island (TMI) nuclear plant in 1979, and most recently at Chernobyl in 1986. The status of the US nuclear power industry is examined, and the current turmoil is discussed. The future of nuclear power in the US is assessed with respect to perceived national security needs and loss of public confidence. >
How safe is probabilistic checkpointing

Probabilistic checkpointing has been introduced recently as a technique for implementing incremental checkpointing. Supposedly, this new technique is better than traditional ones because it is portable, more efficient, and has lower storage requirements. On the downside, the technique may produce erroneous checkpoints due to a problem called aliasing. However, a probabilistic analysis has shown that the likelihood of aliasing in practice is negligible. This paper presents an empirical study showing that aliasing occurs more frequently than the probabilistic analysis has estimated. The results refute the previous claims about probabilistic checkpointing and establish that it is unsafe in practice.
Zinc Uptake by Basolateral Membrane Vesicles from Rat Small Intestine

Zinc uptake (transport and binding) by basolateral membrane vesicles was investigated using membranes derived from small intestines of rats fed zinc-adequate and zinc-deficient diets. Uptake was separated into saturable and nonsaturable (diffusion) components. Kinetic analysis of initial rates of the saturable component of uptake (at 1 min) indicates half maximal uptake (Km) by vesicles from zinc-adequate rats was observed at a medium Zn2+ concentration of 24 microM. The maximum Zn2+ uptake rate (Jmax) of the saturable component was 17 nmol/(mg protein.min). Dietary zinc intake did not affect these parameters. Zn2+ transport by the basolateral membrane may involve an ATP-driven mechanism.
Prolonged Pregnancy in Albino Rat following Injection of Pregnancy Urine Extract

ConclusionProlongation of pregnancy with development of fetuses of excessive size was regularly observed in rats following a single injection of 75 rat units of urine extract administered 4 days before term.Previous observers have found marked alterations in the termination of pregnancy in the rat, following (1) injections of extracts of the corpus luteum (Nelson, et al.1), (2) injections of extracts of the anterior pituitary (Teel,2 Hain3), and implants of the anterior pituitary (Hains), (3) injections of the urine of pregnant women (Levin, et al.4 Hain3), and (4) hypophysectomy (Pencharz and Long5). The results of these investigations are difficult to evaluate in view of the differences in the substances administered, in their preparation and dosage, and in the parity and stage of pregnancy of the animals when treated.In the present experiments the attempt was made to observe the duration of pregnancy in rats injected near term with a uniform dose of urine extract. The investigation was planned to take ...
Octave-spanning infrared supercontinuum generation in robust chalcogenide nanotapers using picosecond pulses

We report on infrared supercontinuum generation extending over more than one octave of bandwidth, from 850 nm to 2.35 μm, produced in a single spatial mode from a robust, compact, composite chalcogenide glass nanotaper. A picosecond laser at 1.55 μm pumps a high-index-contrast, all-solid nanotaper that strongly confines the field to a 480 nm diameter core, while a thermally compatible built-in polymer jacket lends the nanotaper mechanical stability.
Improved atomic model for charge transfer in multielectron ion-atom collisions at intermediate energies

Electron capture to the $K$ shell of projectiles from the $K$ and other subshells of multielectron target atoms is studied in the intermediate energy region using the single-active-electron approximation and the two-state, two-center atomic eigenfunction expansion method. It is concluded that the theoretical capture cross section is not sensitive to the atomic models used at high collision energies where the projectile velocity $v$ is near or greater than the orbital velocity ${v}_{e}$ of the active electron. For $vl{v}_{e}$, however, a proper atomic potential such as the Herman-Skillman potential is needed to represent the target atom. The insufficiency of various simple Coulomb model potentials is illustrated. Capture cross sections for a few collision systems are obtained and compared with experimental data when available to illustrate the reliability of the present model.
The impact of corporate size and strategy on competitive pricing

Larger firms are often hypothesized to have higher prices than smaller competitors because of their market power or implicit collusion on prices. Advertising is often suggested as another cause of price elevation due to its ability to differentiate products of equivalent or inferior quality. This study examines the effect of these and other factors on prices in the major home appliance industry. The most interesting result is the strong corporate effect on prices, which permeates pricing strategies across categories, models and time. Contrary to the hypotheses listed above, larger corporations have lower prices, and advertised products are not higher priced. Strategic and policy implications are discussed.
The seemingly anomalous price behavior of Royal Dutch/Shell and Unilever N.V./PLC

Abstract We examine two Anglo-Dutch groups the shares of whose parents trade on several international exchanges. Within each group, the parents' corporate charters mandate the division of cash flows available for distribution. This implies a specific ratio for the market prices of their securities. We document persistent deviations from these ratios on both the New York and London exchanges. The direction and magnitude of the mispricing are common to both pairs of stocks and both markets. Nevertheless, we find no evidence of profitable intra- or intermarket trading rules.
Quantitative Comparison of the Stability of Anthocyanins from Brassica oleracea and Tradescantia pallida in Non‐Sugar Drink Model and Protein Model Systems

The Tradescantia pallida anthocyanins were about 29 times more stable in a nonsugar drink model system than red cabbade (Brassica oleracea) anthocyanins, and 15 times in a fish protein system. The degradation of the anthocyanins from both sources in a nonsugar drink model was logarithmic rather than linear. The mechanism for logarithmic relationship was assumed to be the difficulty of water molecules diffraction to the hydrophobic center formed by the acyl groups and the aglycone
Comparison of cold digestion methods for elemental analysis of a Y-type zeolite by inductively coupled plasma (ICP) spectrometry

Elemental analysis of zeolites and fluid cracking catalysts is used as a way to monitor production and performance characteristics of these materials. An overview of the similarities and differences between two cold acid digestion methods for the analysis of a Y-type zeolite by ICP spectrometry is presented. Mass balance was used as a check for accuracy since no certified standards are available. Both methods obtained mass balances of 98%. Higher background continuum and higher detection limits were found using Method 1, whereas Method 2 requires very close matrix matching of standards and samples, and suffers from many spectral interferences in the emission wavelength region below 200 nm. Both methods have at least one element that cannot be determined.
RetroLite: An artificial intelligence tool for lighting energy-efficiency upgrade

A prototype software tool integrating knowledge-base and database approaches is developed to solve lighting-retrofit problems for energy conservation and management purposes. Founded on the types of problems and the conceptual differences between conventional programming and knowledge-based expert systems, it is felt that a system which combines both approaches is best for solving lighting-retrofit problems. The architecture of the system is built on the concept of knowledge-based expert systems and its links to a database. A commercially available knowledge-engineering tool and a dBase III-compatible complier are used for system development. Improvements necessary to upgrade the current research system into a deliverable tool are suggested.
High-temperature deformation of polycrystalline Tl2Ba2CaCu2Ox

Abstract High-temperature deformation of ≈ 75–80% dense polycrystalline Tl2Ba2CaCu2Ox (Tl-2212) was studied at ≈ 90% of its melting temperature. For strain rates e of 5 × 10−6 − 2 × 10−5 s−1, deformation occurred by diffusional flow. The creep rate could be described by an Arrhenius relationship: e = Aσ 1.3 ± 0.2 p O 2 -1 (2.2 ± 0.5) , exp (−(566 ± 150 kJ/mole )/RT) , where A is a constant, σ is stress, pO2 is oxygen partial pressure, R is the gas constant, and T is absolute temperature. The activation energy was ascribed to diffusion of one of the cations along short-circuiting paths such as grain boundaries, stacking faults, or dislocation cores. The pO2 dependence of e was similar to that obtained previously for YBa2Cu3Ox.
In vivo performance of bilayer hydroxyapatite scaffolds for bone tissue regeneration in the rabbit radius

The objective of this study was to investigate the in vivo biomechanical performance of bone defects implanted with novel bilayer hydroxyapatite (HAp) scaffolds that mimic the cortical and cancellous organization of bone. The scaffolds maintained architectural continuity in a rabbit radius segmental defect model and were compared to an untreated defect group (negative control) and autologous bone grafts (positive control). Micro-CT evaluations indicated total bone and scaffold volume in the experimental group was significantly greater than the defect group but lesser than the autologous bone graft treatment. The flexural toughness of the scaffold and the autograft groups was significantly greater than the flexural toughness of the defect group. Interestingly, the absolute density of the bone mineral as well as calcium to phosphorus (Ca/P) ratio in that mineral for the scaffold and autograft contralateral bones was significantly higher than those for the defect contralaterals suggesting that the scaffolds contributed to calcium homeostasis. It was concluded from this study that new bone regenerated in the bilayer HAp scaffolds was comparable to the empty defects and while the HAp scaffolds provided significant increase in modulus when compared to empty defect and their flexural toughness was comparable to autografts after 8 weeks of implantation.
The importance of being coherent: Category coherence, cross-classification, and reasoning

Category-based inference is crucial for using past experiences to make sense of new ones. One challenge to inference of this kind is that most entities in the world belong to multiple categories (e.g., a jogger, a professor, and a vegetarian). We tested the hypothesis that the degree of coherence of a category—the degree to which category features go together in light of prior knowledge—influences the extent to which one category will be used over another in property inference. The first two experiments demonstrate that when multiple social categories are available, high coherence categories are selected and used as the basis of inference more often than less coherent ones. The second two experiments provide evidence that ease of category-based explanation of properties is a viable account for coherence differences. We conclude that degree of coherence meaningfully applies to natural social categories, and is an important influence on category use in reasoning.
Anandamide- and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol-evoked arachidonic acid mobilization and blockade by SR141716A [N-(piperidin-1-yl)-5-(4-chlorophenyl)-1-(2,4-dichloro-phenyl)-4-methyl-1H-Pyrazole-3-carboximide hydrochloride]☆☆☆

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether anandamide induces cannabimimetic responses, mainly mobilization of arachidonic acid, in primary cultures of rat brain cortical astrocytes. Confluent monolayer cultures of astrocytes, prelabeled with [3H]arachidonic acid, were incubated with anandamide or delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta9-THC) in the presence or absence of thimerosal, a fatty acid acyl CoA transferase inhibitor and phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride, an amidohydrolase inhibitor. Anandamide and delta9-THC induced a time- and concentration-dependent release of arachidonic acid in the presence, but not in the absence, of thimerosal. Anandamide- and delta9-THC-stimulated arachidonic acid release was pertussis toxin-sensitive, indicating a receptor/G-protein involvement. A novel and selective cannabinoid receptor antagonist, SR141716A [N-(piperidin-1-yl)-5-(4-chlorophenyl)-1-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)-4- methyl-1H-pyrazole-3-carboximide hydrochloride], blocked the arachidonic acid release, suggesting a cannabinoid receptor-mediated pathway. In astrocytes, the magnitude of anandamide-induced arachidonic acid release was equal to that released by equimolar concentrations of delta9-THC. Furthermore, direct assay of amidohydrolase activity indicated that degradation of anandamide into arachidonic acid and ethanolamine was negligible in cortical astrocytes. Our results suggest that anandamide stimulates receptor-mediated release of arachidonic acid, and the receptor may be the cannabinoid receptor. Astrocytes, containing a cannabinoid receptor and lower or negligible amidohydrolase activity, may be an important brain cell model in which to study the cannabimimetic effects of anandamide at a cellular and molecular level.
ARACHIDONOYL ETHANOLAMIDE-1,2-14C AS A SUBSTRATE FOR ANANDAMIDE AMIDASE

Abstract Arachidonoyl ethanolamide-[1,2- 14 C] was prepared and evaluated as a substrate for anandamide amidase in a radioenzymatic assay that does not require a thin layer chromatography separation step. Using this substrate the release of ethanolamine-[1,2-MC] is linear for approximately thirty minutes. Anandamide amidase exhibits maximal activity between pH 8 and pH 9 with a steep decline in activity at pH values below 6 and above 10. Arachidonoyl ethanolamide-[1,2- 14 C] was used for the assay of anandamide amidase from 10 μg to 100 μg protein, from cow brain homogenate, in a 0.2 ml incubation mixture. When plotted as a rectangular hyperbola of the steady-state Michaelis-Menten equation, an approximate K m of 30 ± 7 μM and a V max of 198 ± 13 nmoles ethanolamine formed per hour per mg protein homogenate was obtained.
On the Numerical Evaluation of Option Prices in Jump Diffusion Processes

Abstract The fair price of a financial option on an asset that follows a Poisson jump diffusion process satisfies a partial integro-differential equation. When numerical methods are used to solve such equations the integrals are usually evaluated using either quadrature methods or fast Fourier methods. Quadrature methods are expensive since the integrals must be evaluated at every point of the mesh. Though less so, Fourier methods are also computationally intensive since in order to avoid wrap around effects they require enlargement of the computational domain. They are also slow to converge when the parameters of the jump process are not smooth, and for efficiency require uniform meshes. We present a different and more efficient class of methods which are based on the fact that the integrals often satisfy differential equations. Depending on the process the asset follows, the equations are either ordinary differential equations or parabolic partial differential equations. Both types of equations can be a...
Pulsed Power Supply System for the "Fast" Quadrupoles in the AGS

In the acceleration of polarized protons in the AGS, a number of depolarizing resonances will be encountered. Depolarization due to the so-called intrinsic resonances will be minimized by crossing each resonance in less than one beam revolution period (-2 ?s). This will be accomplished with a set of twelve "fast" tune-shifting quadrupoles distributed symmetrically around the ring. During a typical acceleration cycle, the fast quads will be energized with a burst of alternating polarity, fast rise/slow fall triangular current pulses. The amplitude of these pulses will vary from 160 A to about 2700 A peak. This paper describes the development of the pulsed power supply for the fast quads, the construction of a prototype modulator and some of the initial test results obtained with the prototype.
PRESSURE EFFECTS OF FOREIGN GASES ON THE ABSORPTION LINES OF CESIUM. I. THE EFFECTS OF ARGON ON THE FIRST TWO MEMBERS OF THE PRINCIPAL SERIES

The effect of Ar on both fine-structure components of the first two members of the Cs principal series is described. Experimental procedures are outlined. Cs(1)/Ar and Cs(2)/Ar measurements are reported up to 300 and 30 atmospheres, respectively. Special emphasis was given to obtaining precise data in the low-pressure region. This emphasis revealed structure heretofore unsuspected. In particular, the plot of half-widths versus argon density is nonlinear at low pressures, in contradiction to the present theory. Also, it is found that similar plots for shifts, although linear initially, deviate sharply from the original line at quite low pressures. After a transition region the shift curves are all observed to have a second linear region. The observed anomalous shift and broadening may be due to the effect of unresolved satellite bands of the lines.
Walker Bleakney and the development of the shock tube at Princeton

Recollections of activities in the Physics Department of Princeton University leading to the construction and use of the SHOCK TUBE are recorded. Walker Bleakney was the leader of these activities from 1940 to 1979, and his methods and attitude are described. Original interferograms made at Princeton show some results obtained.
The Impact of Maternal Smoking on Fast Auditory Brainstem Responses

Deficits in auditory processing have been posited as one of the underlying neurodevelopmental consequences of maternal smoking during pregnancy that leads to later language and reading deficits. Fast auditory brainstem responses were used to assess differences in the sensory processing of auditory stimuli among infants with varying degrees of prenatal cigarette exposure. Maternal report of consumption of cigarettes and blood samples were collected in the hospital to assess exposure levels and participants were then seen at 6-months. To participate in the study, all infants had to pass the newborn hearing exam or a clinically administered ABR and have no known health problems. After controlling for participant age, maternal smoking during pregnancy was negatively related to latency of auditory brainstem responses. Of several potential covariates, only perinatal complications and maternal alcohol use were also related to latency of the ABR responses and maternal smoking level accounted for significant unique variance after controlling for these factors. These results suggest that the relationship between maternal smoking may lead to disruption in the sensory encoding of auditory stimuli.
Peanut polyamines may be non-allergenic†

Polyamines such as putrescine, spermidine and spermine have been implicated in preventing food allergies in early life, but they have also been reported to be able to bind to immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in vitro (ie they are possibly allergenic). The objective of this study was to determine if polyamines bind in vitro to IgE antibodies from a pooled serum of five peanut-allergic individuals. Levels of polyamines were also determined by ion-exchange chromatography. Indirect and inhibition enzyme immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) were used to determine the IgE binding or allergenic properties of polyamines. Results showed that, of the three polyamines, spermidine was predominant in peanuts. In both indirect and inhibition ELISAs, IgE antibodies did not bind to the polyamines. It was concluded that polyamines from peanuts, unlike peanut proteins, are not allergenic or an additional threat to patients who are allergic to peanuts. Published in 2005 for SCI by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The combined functions of proapoptotic Bcl-2 family members bak and bax are essential for normal development of multiple tissues.

Abstract Proapoptotic Bcl-2 family members have been proposed to play a central role in regulating apoptosis. However, mice lacking bax display limited phenotypic abnormalities. As presented here, bak −/− mice were found to be developmentally normal and reproductively fit and failed to develop any age-related disorders. However, when Bak-deficient mice were mated to Bax-deficient mice to create mice lacking both genes, the majority of bax −/− bak −/− animals died perinatally with fewer than 10% surviving into adulthood. bax −/− bak −/− mice displayed multiple developmental defects, including persistence of interdigital webs, an imperforate vaginal canal, and accumulation of excess cells within both the central nervous and hematopoietic systems. Thus, Bax and Bak have overlapping roles in the regulation of apoptosis during mammalian development and tissue homeostasis.
Hazard of Retrograde Aortography in Dissecting Aneurysm

During retrograde catheterization via the femoral artery and the brachial artery, the false lumen of a dissecting aneurysm was inadvertently entered in two patients. Bilateral carotid occlusion was produced in one by the high-pressure injection of contrast material into the false passage. A method is suggested to avoid this hazard.
Micro- and nano-patterns created via electrohydrodynamic instabilities

Summary Intense interests on surfaces with micro- and nano-patterns originated from abundant applications in optics, electronics, tissue engineering, biomedical sensors, etc. Searching for ways to create small patterns in both organic and inorganic materials at reduced operation time and cost is one of the challenges in nanotechnology. This paper reviews recent advances in patterning of thin films by using electrohydrodynamic instabilities, a simple and cost-effective bottom-up method. Challenges and future directions are also discussed from the point of view of both fundamental understanding and technological applications of the pattern formation induced by the electric field.
Combining computer adaptive testing technology with cognitively diagnostic assessment

A major advantage of computerized adaptive testing (CAT) is that it allows the test to home in on an examinee’s ability level in an interactive manner. The aim of the new area of cognitive diagnosis is to provide information about specific content areas in which an examinee needs help. The goal of this study was to combine the benefit of specific feedback from cognitively diagnostic assessment with the advantages of CAT. In this study, three approaches to combining these were investigated: (1) item selection based on the traditional ability level estimate (θ), (2) item selection based on the attribute mastery feedback provided by cognitively diagnostic assessment (α), and (3) item selection based on both the traditional ability level estimate (θ) and the attribute mastery feedback provided by cognitively diagnostic assessment (α). The results from these three approaches were compared for θ estimation accuracy, attribute mastery estimation accuracy, and item exposure control. The θ- and α-based condition outperformed the α-based condition regarding θ estimation, attribute mastery pattern estimation, and item exposure control. Both the θ-based condition and the θ- and α-based condition performed similarly with regard to θ estimation, attribute mastery estimation, and item exposure control, but the θ- and α-based condition has an additional advantage in that it uses the shadow test method, which allows the administrator to incorporate additional constraints in the item selection process, such as content balancing, item type constraints, and so forth, and also to select items on the basis of both the current θ and α estimates, which can be built on top of existing 3PL testing programs.
Cervical cytology and multiple type HPV infection: A study of 8182 women ages 31–65

Abstract Objective The aim of this study is to determine the rates of single and multiple type human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in women in the United States ages 31–65 with known cervical cytology results. Methods Type-specific HPV analyses were conducted using the first samples of women who had HPV typing performed by Access Genetics as part of cervical cancer screening between July 2007 and May 2011. Women 31–65years at testing with associated abnormal cytology results were included. The odds of abnormal cytology (compared to normal results) for multiple vs. single HPV infections were calculated for each cytology sub-type and odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) are reported. Results The analysis included 8182 women. The majority (67.7%) had ASCUS cervical cytology. A total of 329 (4.0%) were positive for 2 or more HPV types. For all cervical cytology subtypes considered (ASCUS, ASCUS-H, LSIL or HSIL), women with multiple type infections were more likely to have abnormal cytology (compared to normal cytology) with the highest OR associated with HSIL (OR 1.81 (1.26–2.60)). When analyzing HPV type 16 alone, women with multiple type infections were more likely to have abnormal cytology, with the highest OR associated with HSIL cytology (OR 2.98 (1.57–5.64)). Few women had HPV type 18 infections and no results reached statistical significance. Results based on phylogenic family organization focusing on the alpha 9 phylogenic family showed similar results as HPV type 16. Conclusions Women ages 31–65 with multiple type HPV infections were more likely to have abnormal cytology than those with single HPV type infections.
Now That the Dust Has Settled: A Look Back [Perspectives on Graduate Life]

With finals just around the corner and my second semester at Columbia University drawing to a close, I cannot help but feel a twinge of sadness at this unambiguous demarcation of the passage of time. In college, the end of each year catapulted me into a fit of nostalgia and wistfulness that usually lasted as long as the summer vacation, dissipating rapidly with the start of the new fall semester. Apparently, graduate school will be no different. As plans for summer research and vacation become increasingly definitive, I find myself reflecting with melancholy on my first year as a graduate student and marveling at how much I have changed in just nine months.