cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Retrieving Data Permutations from Noisy Observations: High and Low Noise Asymptotics

This paper considers the problem of recovering the permutation of an n-dimensional random vector X observed in Gaussian noise. First, a general expression for the probability of error is derived when a linear decoder (i.e., linear estimator followed by a sorting operation) is used. The derived expression holds with minimal assumptions on the distribution of X and when the noise has memory. Second, for the case of isotropic noise (i.e., noise with a diagonal scalar covariance matrix), the rates of convergence of the probability of error are characterized in the high and low noise regimes. In the low noise regime, for every dimension $n$ , the probability of error is shown to behave proportionally to $\sigma$ , where $\sigma$ is the noise standard deviation. Moreover, the slope is computed exactly for several distributions and it is shown to behave quadratically in $n$ . In the high noise regime, for every dimension $n$ , the probability of correctness is shown to behave as $1/\sigma$ , and the exact expression for the rate of convergence is also provided.
Quantum Spacetime without Observers: Ontological Clarity and the Conceptual Foundations of Quantum Gravity ∗

The term “3-geometry” makes sense as well in quantum geometrodynamics as in classical theory. So does superspace. But space-time does not. Give a 3-geometry, and give its time rate of change.
Algorithms for diameters of unicycle graphs and diameter-optimally augmenting trees

Abstract We consider the problem of computing the diameter of a unicycle graph (i.e., a graph with a unique cycle). We present an O ( n ) time algorithm for the problem, where n is the number of vertices of the graph. This improves the previous best O ( n log ⁡ n ) time solution [Oh and Ahn, ISAAC 2016]. Using this algorithm as a subroutine, we solve the problem of adding a shortcut to a tree so that the diameter of the new graph (which is a unicycle graph) is minimized; our algorithm takes O ( n 2 log ⁡ n ) time and O ( n ) space. The previous best algorithms solve the problem in O ( n 2 log 3 ⁡ n ) time and O ( n ) space [Oh and Ahn, ISAAC 2016], or in O ( n 2 ) time and O ( n 2 ) space [Bilo, ISAAC 2018].
Slow dynamics of the Fredkin spin chain

The dynamical behavior of a quantum many-particle system is characterized by the lifetime of its excitations. When the system is perturbed, observables of any nonconserved quantity decay exponentially, but those of a conserved quantity relax to equilibrium with a power law. Such processes are associated with a dynamical exponent $z$ that relates the spread of correlations in space and time. We present numerical results for the Fredkin model, a quantum spin chain with a three-body interaction term, which exhibits an unusually large dynamical exponent. We discuss our efforts to produce a reliable estimate $z\ensuremath{\doteq}3.16(1)$ through direct simulation of the quantum evolution and to explain the slow dynamics in terms of an excited bond that executes a constrained random walk in Monte Carlo time.
C-Net: A reliable convolutional neural network for biomedical image classification

Abstract Cancers are the leading cause of death in many countries. Early diagnosis plays a crucial role in having proper treatment for this debilitating disease. The automated classification of the type of cancer is a challenging task since pathologists must examine a huge number of histopathological images to detect infinitesimal abnormalities. In this study, we propose a novel convolutional neural network (CNN) architecture composed of a Concatenation of multiple Networks, called C-Net, to classify biomedical images. The model incorporates multiple CNNs including Outer, Middle, and Inner. The first two parts of the architecture contain six networks that serve as feature extractors to feed into the Inner network to classify the images in terms of malignancy and benignancy. The C-Net is applied for histopathological image classification on two public datasets, including BreakHis and Osteosarcoma. To evaluate the performance, the model is tested using several evaluation metrics for its reliability. The C-Net model outperforms all other models on the individual metrics for both datasets and achieves zero misclassification. This approach has the potential to be extended to additional classification tasks, as experimental results demonstrate utilizing extensive evaluation metrics.
Asymptotic distribution-free change-point detection for data with repeated observations

In the regime of change-point detection, a nonparametric framework based on scan statistics utilizing graphs representing similarities among observations is gaining attention due to its flexibility and good performances for high-dimensional and non-Euclidean data sequences, which are ubiquitous in this big data era. However, this graph-based framework encounters problems when there are repeated observations in the sequence, which often happens for discrete data, such as network data. In this work, we extend the graph-based framework to solve this problem by averaging or taking union of all possible "optimal" graphs resulted from repeated observations. We consider both the single change-point alternative and the changed-interval alternative, and derive analytic formulas to control the type I error for the new methods, making them fast applicable to large data sets. The extended methods are illustrated on an application in detecting changes in a sequence of dynamic networks over time.
Metastability and exit problems for systems of stochastic reaction–diffusion equations

In this paper we develop a metastability theory for a class of stochastic reaction–diffusion equations exposed to small multiplicative noise. We consider the case where the unperturbed reaction–diffusion equation features multiple asymptotically stable equilibria. When the system is exposed to small stochastic perturbations, it is likely to stay near one equilibrium for a long period of time but will eventually transition to the neighborhood of another equilibrium. We are interested in studying the exit time from the full domain of attraction (in a function space) surrounding an equilibrium and, therefore, do not assume that the domain of attraction features uniform attraction to the equilibrium. This means that the boundary of the domain of attraction is allowed to contain saddles and limit cycles. Our method of proof is purely infinite dimensional, that is, we do not go through finite dimensional approximations. In addition, we address the multiplicative noise case, and we do not impose gradient type of assumptions on the nonlinearity. We prove large deviations logarithmic asymptotics for the exit time and for the exit shape, also characterizing the most probable set of shapes of solutions at the time of exit from the domain of attraction.
On the advantages of stochastic encoders

Stochastic encoders have been used in rate-distortion theory and neural compression because they can be easier to handle. However, in performance comparisons with deterministic encoders they often do worse, suggesting that noise in the encoding process may generally be a bad idea. It is poorly understood if and when stochastic encoders do better than deterministic encoders. In this paper we provide one illustrative example which shows that stochastic encoders can significantly outperform the best deterministic encoders. Our toy example suggests that stochastic encoders may be particularly useful in the regime of "perfect perceptual quality".
Composable Geometric Motion Policies using Multi-Task Pullback Bundle Dynamical Systems

Despite decades of work in fast reactive planning and control, challenges remain in developing reactive motion policies on non-Euclidean manifolds and enforcing constraints while avoiding undesirable potential function local minima. This work presents a principled method for designing and fusing desired robot task behaviors into a stable robot motion policy, leveraging the geometric structure of non-Euclidean manifolds, which are prevalent in robot configuration and task spaces. Our Pullback Bundle Dynamical Systems (PBDS) framework drives desired task behaviors and prioritizes tasks using separate position-dependent and position/velocity-dependent Riemannian metrics, respectively, thus simplifying individual task design and modular composition of tasks. For enforcing constraints, we provide a class of metric-based tasks, eliminating local minima by imposing non-conflicting potential functions only for goal region attraction. We also provide a geometric optimization problem for combining tasks inspired by Riemannian Motion Policies (RMPs) that reduces to a simple least-squares problem, and we show that our approach is geometrically well-defined. We demonstrate the PBDS framework on the sphere S2 and at 300-500 Hz on a manipulator arm, and we provide task design guidance and an open-source Julia library implementation. Overall, this work presents a fast, easy-to-use framework for generating motion policies without unwanted potential function local minima on general manifolds.
Semantic SLAM with Autonomous Object-Level Data Association

It is often desirable to capture and map semantic information of an environment during simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM). Such semantic information can enable a robot to better distinguish places with similar low-level geometric and visual features and perform high-level tasks that use semantic information about objects to be manipulated and environments to be navigated. While semantic SLAM has gained increasing attention, there is little research on semantic-level data association based on semantic objects, i.e., object-level data association. In this paper, we propose a novel object-level data association algorithm based on bag of words algorithm [1], formulated as a maximum weighted bipartite matching problem. With object-level data association solved, we develop a quadratic-programming-based semantic object initialization scheme using dual quadric and introduce additional constraints to improve the success rate of object initialization. The integrated semantic-level SLAM system can achieve high-accuracy object-level data association and real-time semantic mapping as demonstrated in the experiments. The online semantic map building and semantic-level localization capabilities facilitate semantic-level mapping and task planning in a priori unknown environment.
Robust Compressed Sensing MRI with Deep Generative Priors

The CSGM framework (Bora-Jalal-Price-Dimakis'17) has shown that deep generative priors can be powerful tools for solving inverse problems. However, to date this framework has been empirically successful only on certain datasets (for example, human faces and MNIST digits), and it is known to perform poorly on out-of-distribution samples. In this paper, we present the first successful application of the CSGM framework on clinical MRI data. We train a generative prior on brain scans from the fastMRI dataset, and show that posterior sampling via Langevin dynamics achieves high quality reconstructions. Furthermore, our experiments and theory show that posterior sampling is robust to changes in the ground-truth distribution and measurement process. Our code and models are available at: \url{this https URL}.
Modified Distillers’ Grain with Solubles Stored for an Extended Period in a Silo Bag Used to Develop Breeding Heifers

Developing breeding heifers were fed two levels of modified distillers’ grains with solubles (MDGS), 17.7 and 32.7% of ration dry matter, in combination with haylages over a 122 day period. Heifers that received 32.7% MDGS in their diet started on feed significantly slower and gained significantly less during the first 46 day period. However, during the remainder of the test the 32.7% MDGS heifers gained significantly faster while consuming less feed than either the controls or the 17.7% MDGS treatment group. After 122 days on trial there were no significant difference in ADG or dry matter conversion between the control or treatment groups, but the 32.7% MDGS group consumed significantly less dry matter per day. There were no significant differences between treatment groups for either synchronized AI pregnancy rate or overall pregnancy rate.
Grid-aware aggregation and realtime disaggregation of distributed energy resources in radial networks

Dispatching a large fleet of distributed energy resources (DERs) in response to wholesale energy market or regional grid signals requires solving a challenging disaggregation problem when the DERs are located within a distribution network. This manuscript presents a computationally tractable convex inner approximation for the optimal power flow (OPF) problem that characterizes a feeders aggregate DERs hosting capacity and enables a realtime, grid-aware dispatch of DERs for radial distribution networks. The inner approximation is derived by considering convex envelopes on the nonlinear terms in the AC power flow equations. The resulting convex formulation is then used to derive provable nodal injection limits, such that any combination of DER dispatches within their respective nodal limits is guaranteed to be AC admissible. These nodal injection limits are then used to construct a realtime, open-loop control policy for dispatching DERs at each location in the network to collectively deliver grid services. The IEEE-37 distribution network is used to validate the technical results and highlight various use-cases.
Type Checking Extracted Methods

Many object-oriented dynamic languages allow programmers to extract methods from objects and treat them as functions. This allows for flexible programming patterns, but presents challenges for type systems. In particular, a simple treatment of method extraction would require methods to be contravariant in the reciever type, making overriding all-but-impossible. We present a detailed investigation of this problem, as well as an implemented and evaluated solution. We show how existing gradual type systems such as TypeScript and Flow are unsound in the presence of method extraction. Working in the context of Racket, whose \emph{structure} system includes a low-level form of methods, we show how to combine two existing type system features---existential types and occurrence typing--to produce a sound approach to typing method extraction. Our design is proved sound, has been implemented and shipped in Typed Racket, and works for existing Racket programs using these features.
Spectra of type I supernovae. I - Generalities. II - Interpretation of the spectra of Sn 1960 in NGC 4496 from 8 to 20 days after the maximum of luminosity.

In the late stages of type I supernovae evolution (t greater than 50 days) the spectrum is without doubt an emission line spectrum, but in the early stages it is difficult to tell if an emission line spectrum is observed, or a continuum spectrum modified by the overlaying absorption formed in the outer layers. The mechanism of formation of the observed spectra, the physical conditions in the shell, different possible sources of heating of the shell, identification of the lines, and theoretical computations of the line intensities are discussed. An attempt is made to interpret the set of spectra assuming that a spectrum of widely broadened emission lines truncated by an overlaying absorption is seen. The absorption spectrum is first studied. An identification for the emission lines is proposed, and their intensity on the observed spectra is tentatively estimated. These identifications have to be justified by the theoretical computations of a model of the shell.
Prevention of Bile Peritonitis by Laparoscopic Evacuation and Lavage after Nonoperative Treatment of Liver Injuries

One of the major lessons learned in the World War II experience with liver injuries was that bile peritonitis was a major factor in morbidity and mortality; the nearly uniform drainage of liver injuries in the subsequent operative era prevented this problem. In the era of nonoperative management, patients who do not require operative treatment for hemodynamic instability may develop large bile and/or blood collections that are often ignored or inadequately drained by percutaneous methods. These inadequately treated bile collections may cause systemic inflammatory response syndrome and/or respiratory distress. We present an experience with laparoscopic evacuation of major bile/blood collections that may prevent the inflammatory sequelae of bile peritonitis. Patients usually underwent operation between 3 and 5 days postinjury (range, 2-18) if CT demonstrated large fluid collections throughout the abdomen/pelvis not amenable to percutaneous drainage. Most patients had signs of systemic inflammatory response syndrome, respiratory compromise, or elevated bilirubin. The bile and retained hematoma was evacuated from around the liver and closed-suction drainage was placed. Twenty-eight patients underwent laparoscopic evacuation/lavage of bile collections (about 4% of total blunt liver injuries). The majority (75%) had Grade IV or V injury. The amount of evacuated fluid ranged from 300 to 3800 mL. Other adjunctive procedures (endoscopic retrograde pancreaticocholangiography, angiography, and laparotomy) were occasionally required. There were no complications related to the procedure. Most patients had a dramatic decline in tachycardia, temperature, white blood cell count, serum bilirubin, and pain. Respiratory failure also resolved in most patients. Large bile and/or blood accumulations are present in a subset of patients with severe liver injuries treated nonoperatively. Delayed laparoscopic evacuation of these collections prevents bile peritonitis and decreases inflammatory response and avoiding early operation, which has been implicated in increased death from hemorrhage.
Stress and Disasters

Disasters are stressful in that they threaten lives, disrupt daily living, and uproot communities. Studies find that psychological distress is common after disasters and can (under certain circumstances) extend for long periods of time after the disaster has occurred. Yet, most people are psychologically resilient even in the face of catastrophic events. This entry focuses on research into the impacts of natural disasters, such as hurricanes, earthquakes, tsunamis, tornados, volcanic eruptions, and floods. Disaster scholars argue that disasters are rooted in the social structure of societies; thus, impacts and responses to disasters vary by social group, circumstances, and community context. The most commonly observed psychological impacts of disasters in the literature are post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression, with some attention to substance abuse. Some research has also examined physical impacts of stress after disaster, in particular myocardial infarction. Keywords: gender; post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); social support; socioeconomic status
An integrated approach to the study of living cells by atomic force microscopy

We describe a technique for studying living cells with the atomic force microscope (AFM) in tapping mode using a thermostated, controlled-environment culture system. We also describe the integration of the AFM with bright field, epifluorescence and surface interference microscopy, achieving the highest level of integration for the AFM thus far described. We succeeded in the continuous, longterm imaging of relatively flat but very fragile cytoplasmic regions of COS cells at a lateral resolution of about 70 nm and a vertical resolution of about 3 nm. In addition, we demonstrate the applicability of our technology for continuous force volume imaging of cultured vertebrate cells. The hybrid instrument we describe can be used to collect simultaneously a diverse variety of physical, chemical and morphological data on living vertebrate cells. The integration of light microscopy with AFM and steady-state culture methods for vertebrate cells represents a new approach for studies in cell biology and physiology.
On Cross-Modal Perception of Musical Tempo and the Speed of Human Movement

Studies in crossmodal perception often use very simplified auditory and visual contexts. While these studies have been theoretically valuable, it is sometimes difficult to see how the findings can be ecologically valid or practically valuable. This study hypothesizes that a musical parameter (tempo) may affect the perception of a human movement quality (speed) and finds that although there are clear limitations, this may be a promising first step towards widening both the contexts in which cross-modal effects are studied and the application areas in which the findings can be used.
Article III Standing vs. Covenant Not to Sue: Rather than Take Its Action to the Patent and Trademark Office, Already, LLC Petitions the Supreme Court to 'Just Do It'

Currently trademark bullying has become a serious concern for many small businesses that feel as though powerful corporations are abusing aggressive trademark enforcement and litigation techniques to crush genuine competition. No doubt these concerns merit the serious consideration of all interested parties seeking reasonable solutions to the issue. However, most commentary on the subject plays up gross generalizations of the innocent mom-and-pop shop versus the greedy corporation for emotional appeal, hampering thoughtful discussion. The facts surrounding Already, LLC v. Nike, Inc. involve potential trademark infringement and bullying. Believing Already was infringing the registered trademark it had over the Air Force 1 shoe design, Nike brought an infringement suit. In response Already brought several declaratory judgment counterclaims seeking the invalidity and cancellation of Nike’s mark. Once Nike realized the judge would not likely rule in its favor, it issued a covenant not to sue seeking to dismiss the entire action so as to avoid any risk of losing its trademark. Already, on the other hand, wanted its day in court, for it had spent serious resources preparing for litigation and had lost all its major U.S. retailers to the fear of secondary liability. The issue became whether standing existed in the wake of Nike’s covenant. The Supreme Court provided a straight forward analysis regarding the issue of mootness and the voluntary cessation doctrine and emphasized the importance of Article III standing restrictions in preserving the separation of powers. In order to appreciate the significance of the Court’s judicial restraint in deciding to dismiss Already’s counterclaims, one must understand the procedural posture of the parties. Given the right argument, Already could have won on procedure, but the arguments it made failed to respect the limitations the Constitution requires.
Control of Gene Function in Bacteriophage T4 IV. Post-Transcriptional Shutoff of Expression of Early Genes

The selective and sequential shutoff of synthesis of early T4 proteins in bacteria infected with DNA-negative mutants is under the active control of one or more T4-induced proteins. Selective shutoff of synthesis of early T4 proteins is accompanied by a selective degradation of distinct species of T4 mRNA. We present circumstantial evidence that selective degradation of mRNA is the cause, and not the consequence, of selective termination of expression of early T4 genes. The mutation sp62 inactivates the shutoff mechanism and prevents the selective degradation of distinct species of T4 mRNA.
Full Longitudinal Acoustic Mode (LAM) Spectrum of an N-Alkane: Comparison of Observed and Computed Incoherent Inelastic Neutron Scattering Spectrum of N-Octadecane

The incoherent inelastic neutron scattering spectrum of solid n-octadecane below 600 cm-1 is presented and compared with the results of a scaled HF ab initio calculation. Ten vibrations in the 300−550 cm-1 region, eight of which have not been previously observed, are easily assigned as longitudinal acoustic modes (LAMs). On the basis of the good agreement between calculated and observed modes in this region, the location of the lower frequency LAMs is postulated.
Electrode independent chemoresistive response for cobalt phthalocyanine in the space charge limited conductivity regime.

The electrical properties of 50 nm thick metallophthalocyanine films, prepared by organic molecular beam epitaxy (OMBE) on interdigitated electrodes, were studied with DC current−voltage measurements and impedance spectroscopy. The transition from Ohmic behavior at low voltages to space-charge-limited conductivity (SCLC) at higher voltages depends on the metal electrode (Pt, Pd, and Au), but does not correlate with the work function of the electrode. Impedance spectroscopy studies show the coexistence of low- and high-frequency traps in the thin film devices, and the contribution of low-frequency traps associated with Ohmic behavior diminishes at higher bias. Although device resistances are strongly influenced by the electrode material, and vary by a factor of over 300, the relative chemical sensor responses on exposure to dimethyl methylphosphonate (DMMP), methanol, water, or toluene vapors are similar for CoPc on Pt, Pd, and Au electrodes when these devices are operated in the SCLC regime at room temper...
Naltrexone's suppressant effects on drinking are limited to the first 3 months of treatment.

Rationale Twelve weeks of naltrexone significantly improves drinking outcomes in alcoholics; however, the clinical benefits of naltrexone decline shortly after treatment is discontinued.
Iron isotope constraints on Fe cycling and mass balance in oxygenated Earth oceans

The Fe isotope composition of Proterozoic to modern clastic sedimentary rocks and aerosols defines a range ind 56 Fe values that is only slightly more variable than the range of Fe isotope com- positions measured in terrestrial igneous rocks, indicating that chemical weathering, sedimentary transport, and diagenesis play only a minor role in producing Fe isotope variations in environ- ments where Fe redox conditions have been controlled by current levels of atmospheric oxygen. In contrast, the Fe isotope composi- tions of hot fluids ( .300 8C) from mid-ocean-ridge (MOR) spread- ing centers define a narrow range that is shifted to lower d 56 Fe values by 0.2‰-0.5‰ as compared to igneous rocks. These new data allow a conceptual model for the Fe isotope composition of the oxic oceans that predicts large ranges in Fe isotope composition under conditions of changing aerosol and MOR Fe fluxes, such as during periods of major worldwide glaciation.
Solvent effects on 15N NMR chemical shifts of 2,6-di-tert-butylpyridine. Absence of hydrogen bonding with the nitrogen atom

Comparison of the 15N chemical shifts of 2,6-di-tert-butylpyridine (DTBP) and pyridine (Py) in a series of solvents demonstrates the inability of the nitrogen atom in DTBP to participate in hydrogen bonds. Both bases are fully hydronated in trifluoromethanesulfonic acid (TFMSA) and trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) solutions, but the chemical shift values for Py differ in the two media, indicating hydrogen bonding between the N–H group of the pyridinium ion and the trifluoroacetate anion in the ion pair, which is absent in hydronated DTBP.
A generalized isometric Arnoldi algorithm

Abstract This paper describes a generalization of the isometric Arnoldi algorithm and shows that it can be interpreted as a structured form of modified Gram–Schmidt. Given an isometry A , the algorithm efficiently orthogonalizes the columns of a sequence of matrices M j for j ⩾ 0 (with M −1 = 0) for which the columns of M j − AM j −1 are in a fixed finite dimensional subspace for each j ⩾ 0. The dimension of the subspace is analogous to displacement rank in the generalized Schur algorithm. The algorithm is described in terms of projections and inner products. This is in contrast to orthogonalization methods based on the generalized Schur algorithm, for which Cholesky factorization is central to the computation. Numerical experiments suggest that, relative to a generalized Schur algorithm, the new algorithm improves the numerical orthogonality of the computed orthonormal sequence.
A mass transfer model of bauxite formation

Abstract The formation of bauxite due to weathering of a granitic protolith has been simulated by means of a one-dimensional flow and reaction model based on the mass transfer principle. The model couples mineral dissolution and precipitation reactions, speciation in solution, and advective solute transport in a porous medium. A very important aspect of the modeling study is the use of mineral reaction rates determined experimentally in the laboratory. The important effects of solution saturation state and pH have been incorporated into the kinetic rate laws governing the heterogeneous reactions. The values of these parameters have been obtained from the scientific literature to guarantee that realistic reaction rates are used in the simulations. Albite and quartz are the minerals that make up the parent rock in the model. Gibbsite, kaolinite, and a Na-mica (as a surrogate for smectite) are the secondary minerals that have been taken into account. Long-term simulations (>1 Ma) have been run, and the formation of a bauxitic profile, with an upper gibbsite-rich and a lower kaolinite-rich zone, is predicted. In early stages of the process (up to a few hundreds of thousands of years), both gibbsite and kaolinite precipitate directly from solution as a consequence of albite dissolution. In later stages, the bulk of gibbsite precipitation derives from the incongruent dissolution of kaolinite, while kaolinite precipitation is still caused by the dissolution of albite. This is also reflected by the formation of two reaction fronts in the profile. These results are compared with weathering sequences from the Los Pijiguaos bauxite deposit, Venezuela. The overlap between the gibbsite and kaolinite zones and the replacement of kaolinite by gibbsite are consistent with model calculations. Mechanical denudation has to be called upon to explain the limited thicknesses of the weathering profiles in the field. The role of mechanical erosion is supported by the presence of microsedimentary structures in the bauxite and the balance between dissolved and suspended loads in the streams draining the area.
The Hypothalamic Origin of an Insulin Secretion Promoting Factor Present in the Plasma of Normal Rats

Abstract Hypothalamic and plasma extracts from normal rats both contain a factor whose property is to stimulate insulin secretion. The two factors have many characteristics in common. Both are active in vivo (when administered to normal recipient rats) and in vitro (when infused into perfused rat pancreases). Both are inactivated by HCI hydrolysis. Both elute at the same ratio between elution volume of the peaks and void volume after gel-chromatographies are carried out, first on Sephadex G-50, then on Biogel P-2, indicating that they have a similar molecular weight which ranges between 800 and 1,200 Daltons. When anaesthetized rats are submitted to an acute bilateral electrical stimulation of the lateral hypothalamus, the insulin secretion stimulating activity present in the plasma is enhanced compared to that measured in sham-stimulated control rats. Conversely, the insulin secretion promoting activity is decreased in plasma from rats whose ventral hypothalamus is acutely and electrolytically lesioned. These data indicate that, in normal rats, the hypothalamus contains an insulin secretion promoting factor that is releasable in the plasma.
Preliminary Report on the 1995 Ridgecrest Earthquake Sequence in Eastern California

The Ridgecrest earthquake sequence began on 17 August 1995 with a M_L 5.4 earthquake. As of October 3, 1995, the Southern California Seismic Network (SCSN) had recorded over 4,500 events in the sequence, with eight events of M ≥ 4.0. These earthquakes are occurring along the eastern edge of the Indian Wells Valley along a small stretch of the thoroughgoing Eastern California Shear Zone (ECSZ). Previous large events within the ECSZ include the 1992 (M_w 7.3) Landers earthquake sequence and the 1872 (M 7.6) Owens Valley earthquake. The only large earthquake to occur near Indian Wells Valle, was the 1946 Walker Pass (M 6.0) earthquake on an unknown fault in the Sierra Nevada mountains to the west. The ECSZ transfers some of the relative motion between the North America and Pacific Plates away from the San Andreas fault to the western Great Basin of the Basin and Range province.
The TMS 9918A VDP: A new device for generating moving displays on a microcomputer

A procedure for creating smooth and continuous moving displays on a microcomputer using the TMS 9918A video display processor (VDP) is discussed. This processor shares all of the features of other VDPs and, in addition, enables the user to directly program smooth motion of specified graphics shapes (sprites) with multilevel pattern overlaying. The general principles for programming this video chip are described, and a machine language driver is presented. Three illustrative applications from the event perception literature—wheel-generated motion, kinetic disruption of optical texture, and biomechanical motions—are presented as demonstrations of how the unique features of this video chip can be implemented in the creation of dynamic displays.
Efficiently inferring community structure in bipartite networks.

Bipartite networks are a common type of network data in which there are two types of vertices, and only vertices of different types can be connected. While bipartite networks exhibit community structure like their unipartite counterparts, existing approaches to bipartite community detection have drawbacks, including implicit parameter choices, loss of information through one-mode projections, and lack of interpretability. Here we solve the community detection problem for bipartite networks by formulating a bipartite stochastic block model, which explicitly includes vertex type information and may be trivially extended to $k$-partite networks. This bipartite stochastic block model yields a projection-free and statistically principled method for community detection that makes clear assumptions and parameter choices and yields interpretable results. We demonstrate this model's ability to efficiently and accurately find community structure in synthetic bipartite networks with known structure and in real-world bipartite networks with unknown structure, and we characterize its performance in practical contexts.
Biophotonic hydrogen peroxide production by antibodies, T cells, and T-cell membranes.

Abstract Rapidly accumulating evidence indicates that inflammatory T cells sensitively respond to their redox environment by activating signal transduction pathways. The hypothesis that T-cell receptors have the potential to catalytically transform singlet oxygen into H 2 O 2 attracted our attention since the biophysical regulation of this process would provide a new tool for therapeutically directing T cells down a preferred signaling pathway. Light-dependent production of H 2 O 2 was first described in antibodies, and we reproduced these findings. Using a real-time H 2 O 2 sensor we extended them by showing that the reaction proceeds in a biphasic way with a short-lived phase that is fast compared to the slow second phase of the reaction. We then showed that Jurkat T cells biophotonically produce about 30 nM H 2 O 2 /min/mg protein when pretreated with NaN 3 . This activity was concentrated 4 to 5 times in T-cell membrane preparations. The implications of these observations for the development of new therapeutic tools for inflammatory diseases are discussed.
Sources of anxiety about pelvic examinations among adolescent females

Sources of anxiety about pelvic examinations were examined in 84 female adolescents seen in an adolescent clinic. The most common concerns about the examination were: fear of the discovery of pathology; fear of pain; and embarrassment about undressing and about personal cleanliness. Adolescent concerns were highly associated with their level of anxiety prior to, during, and following the examination. The concern most highly associated with anxiety was fear of pain. Fear that the pelvic examination might be painful may be the most important concern to alleviate in the adolescent patient. The most frequent source of information about the pelvic examination was peers, and the most common specific message from peers was that the examination was painful. Provider messages were more diffuse and rarely mentioned the physical sensations associated with the procedure, which may have less impact on the adolescent than the specific warnings of peers.
THE GALACTIC POPULATION OF YOUNG γ-RAY PULSARS

We have simulated a Galactic population of young pulsars and compared with the Fermi LAT sample, constraining the birth properties, beaming and evolution of these spin-powered objects. Using quantitative tests of agreement with the distributions of observed spin and pulse properties, we find that short birth periods P 0 50 ms and γ-ray beams arising in the outer magnetosphere, dominated by a single pole, are strongly preferred. The modeled relative numbers of radio-detected and radio-quiet objects agrees well with the data. Although the sample is local, extrapolation to the full Galaxy implies a γ-ray pulsar birthrate 1/(59 yr). This is shown to be in good agreement with the estimated Galactic core collapse rate and with the local density of OB star progenitors. We give predictions for the numbers of expected young pulsar detections if Fermi LAT observations continue 10 years. In contrast to the potentially significant contribution of unresolved millisecond pulsars, we find that young pulsars should contribute little to the Galactic γ-ray background.
Structural Characterization and Electron Tunneling at n-Si/SiO2/SAM/Liquid Interface

Alkylsilane-based self-assembled monolayer films were prepared on n-Si with a thin oxide (nominally SiO2) layer. The surface morphology was characterized by atomic force microscopy (AFM). Photocurrents between the n-Si and a redox species in liquid solution were also examined as a function of the alkane chain length of the self-assembled monolayer (SAM) molecules. They demonstrate that the films are compact and that current flow is blocked by the alkane monolayer, displaying a significant decrease with increasing chain length of the alkane.
An evaluation of Māori values in multiscalar environmental policies governing Kaipara Harbour in New Zealand

Indigenous knowledge and values are increasingly found in watershed management to engage important stakeholders in the development of modern resource management practices and policies. This paper explores the integration of Māori values in water and land policies governing Kaipara Harbour in New Zealand as a case study for this approach. Multijurisdictional documents were analysed for the inclusion of nine well-established Māori values that have applications to land, water and natural resource management. The results of this study identified the most and least commonly mentioned values in policy documents, and a scalar trend in which integration of Māori values increased as the geographic scale and jurisdiction of the respective governing policies decreased.
Gertrude stein never enough

This essay centers around a solo performance, by the author, about Gertrude Stein (Gertrude Stein as Gertrude Stein). The performance, begun as part of a literary Chautauqua in 1993, illuminates Stein's life and work for general, educated audiences. The essay discusses: (1) key differences between performing one's own autobiography and performing an historical biography as a first‐person performance, (2) how performance becomes a method with which to understand and appreciate Stein as a woman and artist, (3) audience preconceptions and responses to the performance, and (4) the transformative possibilities of performance of Stein and her work through Chautauqua.
Automated registration of dynamic MR images for the quantification of myocardial perfusion

Cardiac dynamic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) after contrast media injection suffers from motion induced by free breathing during acquisition. This work presents an automated approach for motion correction of the heart. The registration is based on the multipass/multiresolution iterative minimizing of intrinsic differences between each image and a reference image coupled to a two-dimensional/3 parameters rigid body correction. The efficiency of this correction method was evaluated with anatomical landmarks, various cost functions, and for a compartment model fit of the data with 2 parameters: K1, the blood to myocardium transfer coefficient; and Vd, the distribution volume of the contrast media. The variability of K1 and Vd, derived from the fit of the registered images (using the manual correction as a gold standard), was significantly reduced by comparison with the variability obtained from the uncorrected images (P < 0.04). This motion correction method also clearly improves the analysis of dynamic cardiac MRI after contrast media injection in comparison to manual correction.
Properties of epitaxial films of γ-Fe and γ-Mn

Abstract LEED (low-energy electron diffraction) analyses of thick (10 to 20 layers) epitaxial films of γ-Fe on Cu{001} and of γ-Mn on Pd{001} allow the determination of the bulk interlayer spacing in the direction perpendicular to the plane of the film. Analysis of the strain imposed by the substrate on the epitaxial films permits identification of the structure type and of the lattice parameters of the corresponding equilibrium (unstrained) metastable phase grown. An error in a previous strain analysis is corrected, and the strain analysis now indicates that the films are elastically soft. Comparison of the results of the strain analysis with those of both earlier X-ray measurements on small alloy precipitates and total-energy band-theory calculations leads to the conclusion that the films of γ-Mn on Pd{001} are in the tetragonally distorted antiferromagnetic state, while the films of γ-Fe on Cu{001} are probably in the cubic ferromagnetic state, although a slightly tetragonally distorted antiferromagnetic state cannot be ruled out.
The Positive Functions of “Negative” Rhetoric: Feminists' Expository Campaign Against the Promise Keepers

Several scholars have claimed that feminists failed to effectively counter the Christian men's group, Promise Keepers, because they adopted a negative tone in contrast to Promise Keepers' more positive discourse. I argue, however, that the feminists' “negative” rhetoric functioned as part of an expository campaign that helped to build a positive and powerful vision of the democratic order. The campaign failed, nevertheless, because it employed Promise Keepers' definitions of “politics” and “religion” as separate activities.
Gonococci causing disseminated gonococcal infection are resistant to the bactericidal action of normal human sera.

Abstract The susceptibility of strains of Neisseria gonorrhoeae to the bactericidal action of normal human sera was determined for isolates from patients with disseminated gonococcal infection and uncomplicated gonorrhea. Serum susceptibility was correlated with penicillin susceptibility and auxotype. 38 of 39 strains (97%) of N. gonorrhoeae from Seattle patients with disseminated gonococcal infection were resistant to the complement-dependent bactericidal action of normal human sera. 36 of these were inhibited by less than or equal to mug/ml of penicillin G and required arginine, hypoxanthine, and uracil for growth on chemically defined medium (Arg-Hyx-Ura- auxotype). 12 of 43 isolates from patients with uncomplicated gonorrhea were also of the Arg-Hyx-Ura-auxotype, inhibited by less than or equal to 0.030 mug/ml of penicillin G, and serum resistant. Of the 31 remaining strains of other auxotypes isolated from patients with uncomplicated gonorrhea, 18 (58.1%) were sensitive to normal human sera in titers ranging from 2 to 2,048. The bactericidal action of normal human sera may prevent the dissemination of serum-sensitive gonococci. However, since only a small proportion of individuals infected by serum-resistant strains develop disseminated gonococcal infection, serum resistance appears to be a necessary but not a sufficient virulence factor for dissemination. Host factors such as menstruation and pharyngeal gonococcal infection may favor the dissemination of serum-resistant strains. Since serum-resistant Arg-Hyx-Ura strains are far more frequently isolated from patients with disseminated gonococcal infection than serum-resistant strains of other auxotypes, Arg-Hyx-Ura-strains may possess other virulence factors in addition to serum resistance.
Localized defect states in two-dimensional photonic crystal slab waveguides: A simple model based upon symmetry analysis

Localized defect regions within two-dimensional photonic crystal slab waveguides are an attractive method of forming high-quality factor optical resonators with wavelength-scale modal volumes. Using simple symmetry bases, and the tools of group theory, we develop an approximate description of the resonant modes of different photonic crystal defect cavities. Comparison to numerical simulations as well as photoluminescence measurements of actual microfabricated devices demonstrates the power of this modest symmetry analysis in describing the localized defect states within photonic crystals.
Seizing, Freezing, and… Suffering? Looking at Need for Closure in Romantic Relationships

Need for Closure (NFC), our tendency to “seize” upon immediate answers and “freeze” by failing to update (Kruglanski, 1989), was predicted to be negatively associated with relationship satisfaction because, once in a relationship, high NFC individuals would be motivated to stay in the relationship, even if they were unhappy, because of a preference for the familiar versus the unknown. Two measures of relationship satisfaction were analyzed using linear regressions with the two dimensions of NFC, Decisiveness and Need for Simple Structure (NFSS), as continuous predictors. NFSS proved to be a weak, inconsistent predictor, while Decisiveness turned out to be a strong, positive predictor of relationship satisfaction. A possible basement effect with the sample used and alternative conceptions of the NFC construct were discussed in effort to explain the results.
Decoherence from a chaotic environment: An upside-down ``oscillator'' as a model

Chaotic evolutions exhibit exponential sensitivity to initial conditions. This suggests that even very small perturbations resulting from weak coupling of a quantum chaotic environment to the position of a system whose state is a nonlocal superposition will lead to rapid decoherence. However, it is also known that quantum counterparts of classically chaotic systems lose exponential sensitivity to initial conditions, so this expectation of enhanced decoherence is by no means obvious. We analyze decoherence due to a ``toy'' quantum environment that is analytically solvable, yet displays the crucial phenomenon of exponential sensitivity to perturbations. We show that such an environment, with a single degree of freedom, can be far more effective at destroying quantum coherence than a heat bath with infinitely many degrees of freedom. This also means that the standard ``quantum Brownian motion'' model for a decohering environment may not be as universally applicable as it once was conjectured to be.
Nursing and mHealth

Abstract Innovations in mobile health (mHealth) technology offer applications to promote wellness management and health behavior change outside of formal clinical settings. Nurses can help to move mHealth into mainstream health care by understanding its potential to change the landscape of health intervention delivery, incorporating mHealth into patients' day to day preventive care strategies, and supporting the science of mHealth's effectiveness.