cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Error Control Coding

Channel coding and interleaving techniques have long been used for combating noise, interference, jamming, fading, and other channel impairments. The basic idea of channel coding is to introduce controlled redundancy into the transmitted signals that is subsequently exploited at the receiver for error correction. There are many different types of error correcting codes, but historically they have been classified into block codes and convolutional/trellis codes. This chapter first starts with an introduction to block codes and space-time block codes. This is followed by a introduction to convolutional codes, and decoding algorithms for convolutional codes, including the Viterbi algorithm and BCJR algorithm. The chapter then introduces trellis-coded modulation, followed the performance analysis of convolutional and trellis codes on additive white Gaussian noise (AWGN) channels. Block and convolutional interleavers are discussed that are useful for coding on fading channels. This is followed by a consideration of the design and performance analysis of trellis codes on interleaved flat fading channels. Afterwards, the performance of space-time codes and the decoding of space-time codes is considered. Finally, the chapter wraps up with a treatment of parallel and serial turbo codes.
Spatial variability of soil respiration in a 64-year-old longleaf pine forest

The objectives of this study were to determine the spatial structure of soil respiration (Rs) in a naturally-regenerated longleaf pine forest and to assess the ecological factors affecting the spatial variability in Rs. Soil respiration, soil temperature (Ts), and soil moisture were repeatedly measured over 6 days in summer 2012 in 3 semi-independent plots. Edaphic, forest floor, and root variables were measured. Diameters of 338 trees were mapped. Spatial analysis and regression were applied. Soil respiration was spatially autocorrelated across plots (66—92 m), but not within plots (6—34 m). Spatial distributions of Rs were relatively stable from morning through early evening and were decoupled from temporal variation of Ts. Ecological covariates (e.g., soil moisture, bulk density and carbon, litter mass, understory cover, roots, nearby trees) related to the spatial variability in Rs; however, models varied between plots. This study shows the importance of stationary plant and soil factors in determining the spatial, temperature-independent distribution of Rs in a heterogeneous forest. We suggest the need for a better understanding of the complex interactions between the heterotrophic, autotrophic, and physical processes driving Rs in order to better model forest carbon budgets.
Kinetics and dynamics of mass-transfer-controlled mineral and bubble dissolution or growth: a review

In geology and daily life, kinetics and dynamics of particle (including crystal, droplet, and bubble) dissolution or growth in a liquid are a large class of often-encountered problems. The growth or dissolution of bubbles and drops are usually controlled by mass transfer, whereas the growth or dissolution of crystals may be controlled either by mass or heat transfer or by interface reaction. In this paper, recent advances in kinetics and dynamics of particle dissolution or growth controlled by mass transfer are reviewed, focusing on quantitative prediction models. Mass-transfer-controlled growth or dissolution can be further distinguished as diffusive (non-convective) or convective. For both types of particle dissolution or growth, approximate models are available for not only a single particle, but also multiple particles. These models have no free parameters. Hence, dissolution or growth rates can be calculated as long as the relevant physical and chemical properties are known, including: diffusivity in the liquid, viscosity of the liquid, and saturation condition between the particle and the liquid.
Philippe Zittoun, The Political Process of Policymaking: a Pragmatic Approach to Public Policy

Philippe Zittoun’s central aim in The Political Process of Policymaking is to articulate an approach to the study of public policy that allows for the examination of policymaking as a fundamentally...
Species Diversity, Phenology, and Temporal Flight Patterns of Hypothenemus Pygmy Borers (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae) in South Florida.

Hypothenemus are some of the most common and diverse bark beetles in natural as well as urban habitats, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. Despite their ecological success and ubiquitous presence, very little is known about the habits of this genus. This study aimed to understand species diversity and daily and seasonal trends in host-seeking flight patterns of Hypothenemus in a suburban environment by systematic collections with ethanol baiting over a 15-mo period in South Florida. A total of 481 specimens were collected and identified as eight species, most of them nonnative. Hypothenemus formed the overwhelming majority of bark beetles (Scolytinae) collected, confirming the dominance of the genus in urban environments . Hypothenemus brunneus (Hopkins) and Hypothenemus seriatus (Eichhoff) were most abundant, comprising 74% of the capture. Rarefaction showed that the sample was sufficient to characterize the local diversity and composition. The seasonal pattern in Hypothenemus capture was positively correlated to day-time temperature, not to season as in most temperate Scolytinae. Another significant observation in the community dynamics was the synchronized occurrence of two common species ( H. birmanus and H. javanus ), unrelated to season. Hypothenemus were predominantly diurnal with a broad flight window. Females flew as early as 11:00 hours (EDST), with peak flight occurring at 15:00 hours, significantly earlier than flight patterns of most other Scolytinae. Surprisingly, male Hypothenemus were frequently collected, despite their lack of functional wings. Several potential explanations are discussed. This is the first study into the ecology of an entire community of the twig-feeding Hypothenemus .
Causes and Predictors of Mortality in a Large U.S. Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1 Adult Cohort (P5.077)

Background: There is limited data on the causes and predictors of mortality in patients (pts) with myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) evaluated and treated with modern medical therapy in the U.S. Objective: To determine the epidemiology of mortality in U.S. patients with DM1. Methods: Analysis from a U.S. registry with clinically- and genetically-verified adult DM1 pts (age at entry≥18 yrs) enrolled at MDA clinics (1997-2005) and prospectively followed (study entry-N=406; age: 42±12 yrs; male: 205 (50.5[percnt]); CTG repeats: 629±386; muscular impairment rating score (MIRS): 3.2±1.0). Causes of death were adjudicated by death certificate and medical records review. Results: By last follow-up (11.2±4.2 yrs), 170 (41.9[percnt]) of pts had died with a median age at death of 55.4 yrs. Causes of death in the 170 pts were respiratory failure (90, 52.9[percnt]), sudden unexpected possibly cardiac (47, 27.6[percnt]), non-sudden cardiac (8, 4.7[percnt]), non-sudden other (21, 12.4[percnt]), and uncertain cause (4, 2.4[percnt]). The median survival age was 60.5 yrs. Study entry characteristics predicting all-cause mortality using survival analysis included age (per decile, RR 1.5; 95[percnt] CI 1.3-1.7, p<0.001), MIRS (per 1-level increase, RR 1.7; 95[percnt] CI 1.5-2.1, p<0.001), CTG repeat length (per1-log increase, RR 1.9; 95[percnt] CI 1.2-3.0, p=0.006), cardiac diagnoses (if present, RR 2.7; 95[percnt] CI 2.0-3.7, p<0.001), and an abnormal EKG (if present, RR 2.4; 95[percnt] CI 1.7-3.3, p<0.001). Conclusions: Despite modern therapy, adult DM1 pts in the U.S. have a shortened lifespan. The most common causes of death are respiratory failure followed by cardiac causes. Predictors of death include older age, worsened muscular disability, greater CTG repeat length, and presence of cardiac issues either a diagnoses or abnormal EKG. Study Supported by: Research grant with Biogen, Inc. and Isis pharmaceuticals Disclosure: Dr. Duda has nothing to disclose. Dr. Venkatesh has nothing to disclose. Dr. Groh has received personal compensation for activities with Isis Pharmaceuticals.
Production of laminin B2 chain protein and messenger RNA by a murine neutrophil precursor cell line, 32Dc13 [see comments]

Laminin is a heterotrimeric glycoprotein that plays a central role in promoting neutrophil chemotaxis, motility, and attachment to basement membrane. Rabbit peritoneal exudate neutrophils stain positively for laminin, which is presumed to be of exogenous origin and bound to laminin receptors on the cell surface. We examined 32Dc13 cells, a murine neutrophil precursor cell line, by immunoprecipitation. Northern blot analysis, flow cytometry, and electron microscopy for the endogenous production of laminin. Our results demonstrate that 32Dc13 cells endogenously produce a laminin B2 chain protein and messenger RNA (mRNA) without producing any detectable A or B1 chain protein or mRNA. The B2 chain protein was not secreted by the cells; rather it could be detected on the cell surface after treatment of cells with neuraminidase. These findings suggest the possibility of a novel role for the laminin B2 chain in myeloid development and function.
Doppler-Flow-Sonographie — Fälle mit „enddiastolischem Block“

Im Zeitraum von Mai 1986 bis August 1990 wurden insgesamt 4156 Doppler-Flow-Untersuchungen an 2147 schwangeren Patientinnen durchgefuhrt. Die Diagnose „Enddiastolischer Block“ (EDB) wurde in 69 Fallen gestellt (3,2% aller Patientinnen mit Doppler-Flow-Untersuchungen), wobei in 6 Fallen ein sog. „Reverse Flow“ (enddiastolischer Ruckflus) beobachtet werden konnte.
Mathematics of diffusion measurement

To calculate the distribution of signal phases by molecular motion the first factor that needs to be determined is how a phase distribution in space is introduced by a gradient pulse with a strength of G and a duration of δ . The diffusion constant ( D ) of water inside the brain is about 1.0×10 -3 mm 2 /s and the diffusion time is approximately 30 ms. Using Einstein's equation it is calculated that water moves approximately 8 μm on average. This means that the phase of water signal is found to be about 90° off between two places separated by 8 μm. This is the condition after the first gradient pulse. After the phase gradient is introduced across the sample, water molecules start moving during the time period, D . Although the water molecules move in a 3D space, interest is focused only on the movement along the gradient axis, which is, the horizontal orientation ( x -axis). After the time period D and a rephasing pulse, each water molecule gets a phase shift that is proportional to the amount of movement. The further the water moves, the more phase shift it gets.
Navigating the Realities of the Induction Years: Exploring Approaches for Supporting Beginning Physical Education Teachers

ABSTRACTBecause significant challenges continue to exist in the retention of teachers, the need for an infusion of proactive assimilation strategies, especially related to the induction phase, has become a mandate in physical education. Beginning teachers face countless potential hurdles. From marginalization, role conflict, and teaching diverse student populations, to reality shock and limited resources, the effects of organizational socialization and the realities of the day-to-day workload can be powerful influences on a teacher’s effectiveness and desire to persist. Creating meaningful mentoring relationships, opportunities for purposeful professional development, and timely feedback can serve to help propel teachers through their transition into the field. Acquiring skills to navigate the school culture and provide effective instruction benefits all educational stakeholders. The purpose of this article is to examine the factors that enhance or constrain beginning teachers’ induction processes and off...
The histopathologic features of autoimmune progesterone dermatitis

Introduction The histologic features of autoimmune progesterone dermatitis are generally non-specific and have only been described in brief case reports. We present a case of autoimmune progesterone dermatitis and review the literature with a focus on the histologic findings described. Methods A review of the English literature on autoimmune progesterone dermatitis was performed using PubMed and MEDLINE. Results 39 patients, including our patient are included in this review. The most consistent histologic finding reported was a perivascular inflammatory infiltrate, being seen in 72% of cases. A non-specific or interstitial inflammatory infiltrate was described in 31% of the cases, with 41% having an eosinophilic component and 21% having a neutrophilic component mixed with the predominant lymphocytic infiltrate. Interface dermatitis was the second most common finding with 36% demonstrating a mild to exaggerated interface dermatitis. Conclusion Although histopathologic changes are non-specific, perivascular dermatitis with eosinophils and interface changes are common in autoimmune progesterone dermatitis.
Differential Diagnosis of Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common inflammatory condition of the skin that is usually seen in childhood, but can onset or persist into adulthood. The characteristic distribution and morphology based on age, chronic relapsing course, and pruritus comprise the clinical criteria used in the diagnosis of AD. However, the numerous morphologies ranging from acute, weeping erythematous papules to chronic lichenified plaques, can be simulated by multiple other conditions, including inflammatory, infectious, neoplastic, and photo-dermatoses. Recognition of the distinguishing features and clinical mimickers of atopic dermatitis is vital for an accurate and timely diagnosis, and initiation of proper treatment regimens.
Experiments on Auditory-Visual Perception of Sentences by Users of Unilateral, Bimodal, and Bilateral Cochlear Implants.

Purpose Five experiments probed auditory-visual (AV) understanding of sentences by users of cochlear implants (CIs). Method Sentence material was presented in auditory (A), visual (V), and AV test ...
Terrorism as Method in Nepali Maoist Insurgency, 1996–2016

During the period 1996–2006, the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) waged overt people’s war to seize state power and institute a new order that realized the party’s understanding of ‘New Democracy’...
Chemoprophylaxis in US Naval aircrew transiting malaria endemic areas.

Background: The role of chemoprophylaxis in aircrew transiting malaria endemic regions has been, and remains, a point of controversy. The recent emergence of multi-drug resistant parasites and pesticide-resistant mosquitoes have made malaria prevention and control even more challenging and complex. The primary purpose was to review the efficacy of chemoprophylaxis (as compared with no chemoprophylaxis) in U.S. Naval aircrew traveling to malaria endemic areas for short periods of time on a frequent, infrequent, or isolated basis. A secondary purpose was to generate chemoprophylaxis guidelines based on the outcomes of this review. Methods: A comprehensive MEDLINE database search was performed for the interval from January 1966 to April 1997. Additional resources were obtained from references cited in relevant journal articles, monographs, textbooks, and U. S. government publications. Pertinent U. S. Navy publications were also reviewed. Selection criteria were developed and applied to the data. Results: The investigation failed to identify any analytic studies that met selection criteria regarding the efficacy of chemoprophylaxis in U.S. Naval aircrew or aircrew surrogates transiting malaria endemic areas. The data were therefore used to qualitatively assess the risks/benefits of chemoprophylaxis and generate chemoprophylaxis guidelines. Based on the results of this review, the decision to prescribe chemoprophylaxis was strongly dependent on the following risk factors: a) geographic region; b) transmission risk; c) duration of nighttime exposure; and d) aircrew, aircraft, and mission profiles. Conclusions: Studies of adequate analytic design are needed to delineate the role of chemoprophylaxis in aircrew transiting malaria endemic areas and to validate the chemoprophylaxis guidelines suggested in this review.
Infection Mimics with Brainstem Presentation

The brainstem and cerebellum are two infratentorial locations that are commonly involved in demyelinating disorders. Diagnosis of demyelinating lesions of the brainstem and cerebellum mostly depends on ruling out mimics including tumors, vascular lesions, and infections. Certain infections such as Listeria, enteroviruses, and herpes viruses have the propensity to affect the brainstem and thus are often confused with demyelinating lesions. Tuberculosis, neurocysticercosis, toxoplasmosis, cryptococcosis, and histoplasmosis on the other hand are infections that are not restricted to the brainstem or cerebellum but can give rise to lesions with similar-appearing rim-enhacement and thus can also be misinterpreted as demyelinating lesions when affecting those anatomical locations. . Stereotactic biopsy of the brainstem is controversial but is a reasonable option to consider when arriving at a diagnosis from clinical and radiological features alone is not possible.
Dysregulation of immune response to enteric bacteria triggers the development of spontaneous experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease against the central nervous system (CNS). Although the etiology of MS is still unknown, breakage of peripheral immune tolerance to CNS antigens is believed to be an initial event of CNS autoimmune diseases. It has been indicated that gut microbiota is an important environmental risk factor in MS/EAE pathogenesis; however, the exact mechanism for pathogenesis has not been elucidated. To examine how the immune tolerance to myelin basic protein (MBP) is broken, we created a humanized transgenic (Tg) mice that express MS-associated HLA-DR2a and MBP-specific TCR (3A6 TCR) genes isolated from an MS patient. The 3A6/DR2a Tg mice develop EAE spontaneously, and antibiotic treatment, which can reduce the population of commensal bacteria, was found to abolish the development of spontaneous EAE. Since fecal IgM is a marker of expansion of enteric bacteria, we examined the association of fecal IgM with spontaneous EAE development. Interestingly, raised levels of fecal IgM and expansion of enteric bacteria were associated with the development of spontaneous EAE, and a massive infiltration of MBP-specific Tg T cells and neutrophils, along with complement deposits, were detected in the colon of spontaneous EAE mice. Furthermore, MBP-specific GM-CSF + Th1 and Th17 cells were expanding in the colon but not in the small intestine, and CNS-homing integrin, α4β1, was highly up-regulated in the MBP-specific T cells in the mesenteric lymph nodes in the spontaneous EAE mice. These data suggest that enteric bacteria-mediated dysregulation of gut immunity may be involved in the initiation and progression of CNS-autoimmune diseases.
Tuning Nanocrystal Surface Depletion by Controlling Dopant Distribution as a Route Toward Enhanced Film Conductivity.

Electron conduction through bare metal oxide nanocrystal (NC) films is hindered by surface depletion regions resulting from the presence of surface states. We control the radial dopant distribution in tin-doped indium oxide (ITO) NCs as a means to manipulate the NC depletion width. We find in films of ITO NCs of equal overall dopant concentration that those with dopant-enriched surfaces show decreased depletion width and increased conductivity. Variable temperature conductivity data show electron localization length increases and associated depletion width decreases monotonically with increased density of dopants near the NC surface. We calculate band profiles for NCs of differing radial dopant distributions and in agreement with variable temperature conductivity fits find NCs with dopant-enriched surfaces have narrower depletion widths and longer localization lengths than those with dopant-enriched cores. Following amelioration of NC surface depletion by atomic layer deposition of alumina, all films of e...
The impact of implementing a fall prevention educational session for community‐dwelling physical therapy patients

Aim The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of a fall prevention educational session on fall risk knowledge, use of fall prevention interventions and the number of falls in community-dwelling older persons attending physical therapy. Design This pilot study used a mixed method design consisting of a quantitative pretest-posttest quasi-experimental design followed by a qualitative interview. Method An educational intervention was given with pre- and posttest questionnaires to determine the outcome measures of: (a) fall risk knowledge; (b) number of participants implementing fall prevention techniques; and (c) the number of falls sustained for 60 days post the educational sessions. The Health Belief Model served as the theoretical underpinnings for development and presentation of two educational sessions. Results Eight of 20 participants completed the fall prevention educational sessions and subsequent evaluation. An increase in fall risk knowledge (p = 0.031) and implementation of fall prevention techniques was noted. One fall was sustained 60 days after therapy discharge.
On the effectiveness of distributed worm monitoring

Distributed monitoring of unused portions of the IP address space holds the promise of providing early and accurate detection of high-profile security events, especially Internet worms. While this observation has been accepted for some time now, a systematic analysis of the requirements for building an effective distributed monitoring infrastructure is still missing. In this paper, we attempt to quantify the benefits of distributed monitoring and evaluate the practicality of this approach. To do so we developed a new worm propagation model that relaxes earlier assumptions regarding the uniformity of the underlying vulnerable population. This model allows us to evaluate how the size of the monitored address space, as well the number and locations of monitors, impact worm detection time. We empirically evaluate the effect of these parameters using traffic traces from over 1.5 billion suspicious connection attempts observed by more than 1600 intrusion detection systems dispersed across the Internet. Our results show that distributed monitors with half the allocated space of a centralized monitor can detect non-uniform scanning worms in half the time. Moreover, a distributed monitor of the same size as a centralized monitor can detect the worm four times faster. Furthermore, we show that even partial knowledge of the vulnerable population density can be used to improve monitor placement. Exploiting information about the location of the vulnerable population leads, in some cases, to detection time that is seven times as fast compared to random monitor deployment.
Behavioral Ecology, Epidemiology and Population Genetics: The Undiscovered Country

Behavioral ecology means different things to different people (or even to the same people at different times). Often it is defined as “the survival value of behavior”. Alternatively, a focus on inclusive fitness often leads to the use of optimization methods. “Behavioural ecologists often preface their studies with statements such as ‘individuals are expected to behave so as to maximize their reproductive success’” (Krebs and Davies 1991, pg 3). It is, in fact, extremely unfortunate that the early emphasis in behavioral ecology on optimization deflected discussion of more important concepts (Mangel and Ludwig 1992). In particular, the focus became one of “testing the optimization model” (in which case any variation of behavior disproves the theory) rather than considering fitness consequences of different behaviors (see Mangel and Clark 1988, Mangel and Ludwig 1992).
Mode of Production

Karl Marx's notion of modes of production is one of the enduring contributions of his work. During the 1970s and 1980s, anthropologists, historians, and philosophers engaged in a far-ranging debate about Marx's concept. This article outlines the legacy of these discussions. It defines forces and relations of production and describes how the first may be thought to determine the second in the creation of distinctive ways or modes of producing social life.
Influence of Ultrasound System and Gain on Grayscale Median Values

OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to determine the reliability of grayscale median (GSM) measurements across different ultrasound (US) systems and effects of gain on GSM values. METHODS Two vessels in a grayscale vascular phantom were imaged with 7 US systems at 3 gain settings. Two human participants were imaged at 3 gain settings. Each image was normalized, standardized, and segmented by expert and novice readers using grayscale analysis software. The concordance correlation coefficient (CCC) assessed agreement of GSM values for each system across gain settings and vessels and between readers. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) assessed system-level reader concordance across gain settings and vessels. A general linear mixed model for repeated measures was used to assess within- and between-system mean GSM values. RESULTS Grayscale median measurements performed on images from the same US system yielded excellent (CCC) (95% confidence intervals): 0.85 (0.75, 0.92) to 0.96 (0.92, 0.98). ICC per system were 0.94 to 0.98 for the expert reader and 0.85 to 0.95 for the novice reader. Gain adjustments above and below an optimal setting contributed to significantly different intrasystem GSM values on 4 of 7 systems in the near zone and 5 of 7 systems in the far zone (P < .05). Intersystem GSM values differed on 5 of 7 systems (P < .05). Images from the human participants showed differences in GSM values at optimum gain values ± 10 dB/%. CONCLUSIONS Grayscale median measurements are highly reproducible when obtained from the same US system with similar gain settings. Grayscale median values differ significantly across gain values and between systems. Researchers should consider the impact of US system and gain settings on GSM values when working to minimize system- and operator-dependent factors.
Circular Ranging Optical Coherence Tomography using a Fourier-Domain Mode-Locked Frequency Comb

In high speed optical frequency domain imaging (OFDI), the bandwidth of the generated signals can exceed tens and even hundreds of gigahertz for some imaging configurations. Here, we present circular ranging based on a Fourier-domain mode-locked (FDML) frequency comb and an acousto-optic frequency shifter for positive and negative delay discrimination. We show that a FDML frequency comb offers an order of magnitude improved coherence length compared to traditional FDML laser, while circumventing the requirement of precise high-order intracavity dispersion compensation. In addition to providing a 15-fold RF bandwidth reduction, the system offers a convenient platform for exploring signal and image processing methods in circular ranging.
Funding Models for a Surgical Simulation Center

In this chapter, we will explore general themes for funding, discuss opportunities for cost savings, and review advanced funding options. There exist many sources of funding, both internal and external, and this chapter will give an overview of the most common sources with the discussion of pros and cons and relative difficulty of securing each source.
Target Frequency Band of Cognition and Tempo of Music: Cardiac Synchronous EEG

It is over 150 years ago that the intimate interaction between the heart and the brain was realized by Claude Bernard, and of all the organs in the human body, the heart is among the ones that have the most extensive neural connection with the brain. In this study, we used cardiac-synchronized EEG segments to investigate the effects of tempo and cognition induced by auditory stimuli. To evaluate the effects of tempo, two songs, of slow and fast tempo were used, and to evaluate the effects of cognition, the subjects’ favorite song was used (known song). The selected slow and the fast tempo songs were unknown to all subjects. To further investigate the effects of cognition, the phase of local spectra of the known and unknown fast tempo songs were randomized to alter the amount of cognition of songs. ECG and EEG were recorded from 14 subjects when they were listening to music and during silence (control). The 300-millisecond EEG segments ending at R-peaks of ECG were extracted. The frequency bands of Delta, Theta, Alpha, Beta, Gama and Gamma2 within EEGs were also analyzed to determine which bands were more sensitive to the induced changes. The eigenvalue analysis of covariance matrix of synchronized EEG showed that Alpha band in EEG from parietal zone was the most sensitive band among all other frequency bands to auditory stimuli. The cognition of song had much higher impact on Gamma and Gamma2 bands of EEGs from right hemisphere, which corresponds to music awareness, than tempo of song even though tempo is considered as the most impactful acoustic structural feature of music on physiological variables. The higher impact of local phase randomized version of known song than local phase randomized of unknown song on these bands also verifies the stronger impact of cognition relative to tempo.
“Dieselgate:” How Different Approaches to Decentralization, the Role of NGOs, Tort Law and the Regulatory Process Affected Comparative U.S. and European Union Outcomes in the Biggest Scandal in Automotive History

The VW diesel emissions scandal (“dieselgate”) recounts how Volkswagen became ensnared in a self-inflicted and staggeringly costly cheating scandal that started in the U.S. and then spread to the E...
Using Cinematic Effects to Visualize the Deep Water Impact Data Set

The process of data visualization often involves a balance between art and science. Data must be presented in such a way that preserves their accuracy and integrity, while incorporating many, somewhat subjective, artistic elements such as color, composition, depth, and others. The latter elements help the viewer to distinguish between variables, to perceive a range of values, to identify regions of scientific interest, and to orient themselves spatially in the virtual scene. This paper briefly explores the application of different cinematic effects, such as camera movement, camera focus, slow motion, color, lighting, and the use of various graphical shaders as a means of animating data in a way that is artistically compelling and engaging, while remaining accurate and informative.
Tuning the photo-physics of molecules for opto-electronic applications using plasmonic and dielectric effects (Conference Presentation)

Organic semiconductors are promising for the development of many applications including in solid state lighting, flexible displays and organic-based lasing. However, a critical factor limiting their utility is their inherently low stability relative to inorganic materials. This instability causes organic molecules to be susceptible to oxygen damage in an irreversible process known as photo-bleaching. This effect necessitates the development of highly impermeable encapsulation strategies and limits device lifetimes. Plasmonic engineering offers one avenue to alter the decay rates of fluorophores and modify the emission from single molecules and thin films. Here, we demonstrate that by carefully engineering the properties of ultra-thin gold films to match the plasmon with the emission of organic molecules a photostability enhancement of more than 60-fold can be achieved. As an example, we successfully demonstrated that OPPV-13, an oligomer of poly [2-methoxy-5(2'-ethylhexyloxy)-1,4-phenylene]vinylene, deposited on 2 nm thick Au substrates retains its fluorescence under constant illumination in ambient conditions for 45 minutes compared to less than 2 minutes when it is deposited on glass substrates. The underlying mechanism of this remarkable enhanced photostability is probed using a variety of microscopy-based tools and extensions to other opto-electronic materials are described.
In-situ instrumentation to observe transient tribological effects in high sliding speed unlubricated contacts

Abstract Non-invasive and high data rate instrumentation methods are critically needed for in-situ monitoring and analysis of transient effects of high sliding speed dry mechanical contacts of gears and bearings, where increases in temperature and changes in surface chemistry control the tribological response. This study examines some of the approaches on an example of an unlubricated contact of a silicon nitride ball on a steel disk operating in humid air at about 1.5 GPa contact pressure with variable high sliding speeds (ranging from 1 to 16 m/s), while using correlated in-situ optical imaging and thermography to aid in the analysis of changes in tribological response. In-situ optical imaging of wear tracks with quantified color analysis was used to detect the increased tribochemical activity, and thermography helped to correlate this tribochemical activity with thermal effects induced by the frictional heating. The post-experiment analysis with scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy elemental mapping confirmed the development of the oxide based tribofilm correlating to the changes in the optical imaging and thermography. The results indicate that both employed in-situ methods were effective in the measurement of signals that were related to changes in the mechanical or tribochemical behavior of high speed sliding contacts, linked to transitions in the coefficient of friction from a high value to low, and accompanied by the transition from oxidative wear to the formation of a complex tribofilm at speeds above 4.5 m/s. The discussed instrumentation methods and data analysis approaches enhance the in-situ capability for evaluating transient tribological effects at high sliding speeds and contact loads.
Contemporary Views of Research Participant Willingness to Participate and Share Digital Data in Biomedical Research

Importance Using social media to recruit participants is a common and cost-effective practice. Willingness to participate (WTP) in biomedical research is a function of trust in the scientific team, which is closely tied to the source of funding and institutional connections. Objective To determine whether WTP and willingness to share social media data are associated with the type of research team and online recruitment platform. Design, Setting, and Participants This mixed-methods longitudinal survey and qualitative study was conducted over 2 points (T1 and T2) using Amazon’s Mechanical Turk (MTurk) platform. Participants were US adults aged 18 years or older who use at least 1 social media platform. Recruitment was stratified to match race/ethnicity proportions of the 2010 US Census. The volunteer sample consisted of 914 participants at T1, and 655 participants completed the follow-up survey 5 months later (T2). Main Outcomes and Measures Outcomes were (1) past experience with online research and sharing social media data for research; (2) WTP in research advertised online; (3) WTP in a study sponsored by a pharmaceutical company, a university, or a federal agency; and (4) willingness to share social media data. Opinions were solicited regarding the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation statute, which came into effect between T1 and T2. Results Of 914 participants completing the first survey (T1), 604 (66.1%) were aged 18 to 39 years and 494 (54.0%) were female. Of these, 655 participants (71.7%) responded at T2. While 680 participants (74.4%) indicated WTP in biomedical research, only 454 (49.3%) were willing to share their social media data. Participants were significantly less likely to participate in federally sponsored (odds ratio [OR], 0.58; 95% CI, 0.51-0.64;P Conclusions and Relevance This study suggests that researchers may see reduced online research participation and data sharing, particularly for research conducted outside academia.
Disgust in PTSD

Abstract Disgust is a universally experienced negative emotion that evolved from a basic response designed to protect us from ingesting potentially harmful substances to a broader response aimed at distancing us from any stimuli with the potential to harm our physical, psychological, or moral well-being. Emerging research demonstrates a critical role for disgust in traumatic events that involve exposure to potential contaminants (e.g., blood, vomit, and disease), death and decay, betrayal, and sexual or moral violation. Disgust has been linked to symptoms of PTSD and a range of other trauma-related outcomes including mental contamination (i.e., internal feelings of dirtiness in the absence of a physical contaminant), moral injury (i.e., injury to an individual’s moral conscience resulting from a perceived transgression of deeply held moral beliefs), obsessive-compulsive disorder, sexual aversion, substance use, and suicidal behavior. This chapter offers considerations for clinical assessment and treatment of trauma-related disgust and considers future directions for research.
Using Transistors to Emulate Vacuum Tube Sound Quality Based on Asymmetric Cycle Harmonic Injection Method

It is well-known that vacuum tube amplifiers and solid-state amplifiers sound different. An important factor accounting for the difference is output harmonic contents. This paper describes a novel analog method to change the harmonic contents of a signal. Based on this method, a transistor amplifier with controllable output harmonics has been built. Performance has been evaluated by both objective measurements and subjective listening.
Microtomographic Analysis of Resin Composite Core Material Porosity

Purpose To nondestructively evaluate the porosity of ten contemporary resin composite core materials using microtomographic (microCT) analysis. Material and methods Resin composite core material samples (n = 12) including dual-cure, visible light cure only, and a self-cure material were fabricated using a standardized mold following manufacturer's recommendations. After storage in phosphate buffered saline for one week, specimens were analyzed using a microCT unit at 5.3-µm resolution over a rotational range of 360°. Image 3D recombination and analysis was accomplished using microCT software. Evaluated parameters included material volume investigated, closed pore number and volume, as well as closed pore percentage. Parameter mean values were evaluated with Kruskal-Wallis/Dunn at a 95% confidence level (α = 0.05). Results Mean percent total porosity with standard deviation identified significant differences in decreasing order as Ti-Core: 2.2 (0.4) > Ti-Core Auto E: 1.3 (0.3) = Ti-Core Flow Plus: 1.1 (0.02) > Clearfil Photo Core: 0.94 (0.5) = Clearfil DC Core Plus: 0.6 (0.18) = MultiCore Flow: 0.58 (0.1) > Fluorocore 2+: 0.14 (0.2) = Build-It FR: 0.068 (0.02) = Gradia Core: 0.03 (0.02) = Rebilda DC: 0.02 (0.01). A pilot microCT evaluation evaluating a mixing tip revealed incomplete mixture between the two resins with porosity introduced from turbulence as the materials are forced through the tip during preparation. Conclusions A wide range of porosity was identified between the ten materials evaluated. These preliminary results warrant more investigation evaluating additional resin composite core materials, the preparation capabilities of automix tips, and porosity presence in the unmixed materials.
Incidence of Complications in Delayed Abdominal-Based Flap Breast Reconstruction Using a Drainless Recipient Site: A Case Series.

BACKGROUND Seroma is a common complication after breast surgery such as mastectomy and immediate reconstruction. However, there is a lack of evidence for the utility of drains in the recipient site in delayed autologous breast reconstruction. We reviewed our experience with delayed abdominal-based flap breast reconstruction with a drainless recipient site. METHODS A single-surgeon retrospective case review was performed for delayed abdominal-based flap breast reconstruction using drainless recipient sites from May 2018 to June 2019. Primary outcomes were recipient-site complications. RESULTS Thirty-one delayed abdominal-based flap breast reconstructions that did not use drains in the recipient site were identified in 22 patients. Mean age was 52.8 years (SD, 9.7 years). Mean body mass index was 30.1 kg/m (interquartile range [IQR], 28.2-35.0 kg/m). Common comorbidities were obesity (45.4%), prior tobacco use (31.8%), and diabetes (10.0%). Median time to abdominal-based flap reconstruction was 27.5 months (IQR, 9.9-105.2 months). There were 22 muscle-sparing transverse rectus abdominis musculocutaneous flaps and 9 deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flaps performed. Ten patients (45.4%) underwent bilateral reconstruction. Mean operative time was 302 minutes (SD, 85 minutes). Flap take back occurred in 1 case (3.2%). Mean length of stay was 4 days (SD, 0.8 days). Recipient-site complications were healing complications (32.3%), seroma (3.2%), hematoma (3.2%), and fat necrosis (19.4%). Median follow-up was 4.2 months (IQR, 2.5-11.5). CONCLUSIONS In this case series, our data indicate that delayed autologous reconstruction without drain placement at the recipient site has been proven to be safe and successful and did not increase the rate of seroma or other complications. Adopting a drainless approach may also improve patient comfort and satisfaction.
Limits on Lorentz-Invariance Violation from HAWC

The High Altitude Water Cherenkov observatory has observed the highest energy photons ever measured. This can place strongly constraining limits on Lorentz violation via the photon decay channel, which are directly comparable to superluminal limits from time-of-arrival differences of photons from different energies, but a factor of ten stronger.
Evaluation of hypoglycemia

Abstract Hypoglycemia is a threat to the acute and chronic functioning of the nervous system. In the short term, the brain is solely dependent on glucose for energy. Robbed of this resource, neurologic function can rapidly deteriorate leading to seizures, coma and even death. Recurrent hypoglycemia can severely damage the developing brain of a child. In our biochemical evolution, four hormones have developed to protect us from hypoglycemia. Epinephrine and glucagon protect us from acute hypoglycemia whereas cortisol and growth hormone protect us from more chronic hypoglycemia. Functionally, there is only one hormone that acts to lower plasma glucose concentrations; that hormone is insulin. With a firm foundation in the physiology of glucose regulation, excess insulin, deficient counter regulatory (a.k.a. – “anti-insulin”) hormones, and various liver diseases and inborn errors are major causes of hypoglycemia. Nevertheless, outside of early childhood, most causes of hypoglycemia are drug or medication induced. This chapter reviews the regulation of plasma glucose concentrations, and examines, in detail, the causes of hypoglycemia and the diagnostic approaches to hypoglycemia. This information will assist the clinician and the laboratorian in improving patient management and outcome.
Recapitulation of the Function and Role of ROS Generated in Response to Heat Stress in Plants

In natural ecosystems, plants are constantly exposed to changes in their surroundings as they grow, caused by a lifestyle that requires them to live where their seeds fall. Thus, plants strive to adapt and respond to changes in their exposed environment that change every moment. Heat stress that naturally occurs when plants grow in the summer or a tropical area adversely affects plants’ growth and poses a risk to plant development. When plants are subjected to heat stress, they recognize heat stress and respond using highly complex intracellular signaling systems such as reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS was previously considered a byproduct that impairs plant growth. However, in recent studies, ROS gained attention for its function as a signaling molecule when plants respond to environmental stresses such as heat stress. In particular, ROS, produced in response to heat stress in various plant cell compartments such as mitochondria and chloroplasts, plays a crucial role as a signaling molecule that promotes plant growth and triggers subsequent downstream reactions. Therefore, this review aims to address the latest research trends and understandings, focusing on the function and role of ROS in responding and adapting plants to heat stress.
Female-female reproductive suppression: impacts on signals and behavior.

Female-female reproductive suppression is evident in an array of mammals, including rodents, primates, and carnivores. By suppressing others, breeding females can benefit by reducing competition from other females and their offspring. There are neuroendocrinological changes during suppression which result in altered behavior, reproductive cycling, and communication. This review, which focuses on species in Rodentia, explores the current theoretical frameworks of female-female reproductive suppression, how female presence and rank impacts reproductive suppression, and some of the proposed mechanisms of suppression. Finally, the understudied role of olfactory communication in female-female reproductive suppression is discussed to identify current gaps in our understanding of this topic.
Manipulating GPS Signals to Determine the Launch Location of Drones in Rescue Mode

The use of drones for civilian purposes has recently grown. Drones are used for recreational, commercial, and governmental purposes. Today's drones can fly over a long range and many of them are equipped with cameras and a GPS chip to allow users to control them over a long range. This creates privacy and security concerns. For example, drones flying in restricted areas, or using the camera to spy on individuals and entities This paper addresses this issue and proposes a method to respond to violating drones by exploiting the lack of source authentication in GPS systems. In this paper, we propose a technique to ground and find the launch location of violating drones. This is done by invoking the rescue mode, then, employing Radio frequency software-defined radios to broadcast manipulated GPS signals following a novel algorithm that not only grounds violating drones but also find the drone's launch location, which is what unique about our approach. In this paper, we present the proposed method. Then, we perform both hardware tests and a simulation to demonstrate the proposed system's performance.