cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A combined steepest descent-fast multipole algorithm for the analysis of three-dimensional scattering by rough surfaces

The scattering of electromagnetic waves by random rough surfaces is a subject of great practical and intellectual interest. Applications include, but are not limited to, remote sensing, long-range communications, radio astronomy, medicine, and surface physics. Random surfaces also exhibit several interesting scattering and polarization characteristics, such as backscattering enhancement and the generation of localized modes. A host of numerical techniques exist for analyzing rough surfaces. However, it is only recently that the fast algorithms have been developed, enabling analysis of larger surfaces. An efficient algorithm of O(N) computational complexity is presented.
Intravascular brachytherapy physics: introduction

Coronary artery disease is the most common cause of death in the U.S. Treatment modalities include bypass surgery and Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty (PTCA). The latter is less morbid, less expensive, and has an initial success rate of 90%. However, there is a 30-50% restenosis rate within 6 months. The biological mechanisms of restenosis are not fully understood, but it is believed to be caused by neointimal growth and vascular remodeling. The latter can be reduced by implantation of stents, but stents do not reduce neointimal growth. Intravascular Brachytherapy (IVB) is the use of temporary or permanent radioactive implants to prevent neointimal growth and restenosis following PTCA. Prescribed doses are typically 8-30 Gy to a point 1-2 mm from the source, or 0.5-1.5 mm depth into the vessel wall. Because of the steep dose gradients doses to other points may differ significantly from the prescribed dose. The goal of treatment is to deliver a large enough dose to all target cells so as to inhibit new cell growth without exceeding normal tissue tolerance which could lead to vascular necrosis. To date, catheter based IVB, wherein radioactive seeds or wires are temporarily inserted through coronary catheters has been the most common method of IVB. Dose rates are typically >1 Gy/min and large activities of radioisotopes are required (>300 mCi for photon emitters, >20 mCi for betas). The permanent implantation of radioactive stents is an alternative method of IVB.
Responses of a CAM Plant to Drought and Rainfall: Capacitance and Osmotic Pressure Influences on Water Movement

Daily and seasonal patterns in water flow and water potential were investigated for the Crassulacean acid metabolism succulent Agave deserti during an extended summer drought and for a period following rainfall. Field measurements of transpiration and of osmotic pressure changes over selected 24 h periods were used as input variables for a computer model of water flow that was based on an electrical circuit analog of the whole plant. Parameters such as root resistance and tissue capacitance were also varied to reflect the effects of changing plant or soil water status. The model predicted internal water flow and water potential during the drought cycle and was used to assess the role of tissue osmotic properties in water uptake from the soil and in internal water redistribution. For plants under wet soil conditions, 55% of the night-time transpiration was derived from water storage, this storage being recharged during the day. As drought progressed, transpiration and the nocturnal increase in osmotic pressure declined, although the osmotic pressure itself increased. The difference in osmotic pressure between the water storage tissue and the chlorenchyma caused a net flow of water into the chlorenchyma after 3 weeks of drought, thereby increasing chlorenchyma turgor pressure. Simulations also indicated that a large increase in root resistance must occur to prevent substantial water loss from the plant to the dry soil. After rainfall, recharge of plant water storage was complete within one week, although full recovery in the amplitude of daily osmotic pressure variations took longer.
The Teaching and Learning of Esperanto

One of the first tasks faced by Zamenhof, the inventor of Esperanto (1887), was establishing its status as a living language, achieved in part by teaching the language to others, in part by translation and literary creation, and in part by forming a community of users. One of the earliest learners, Leo Tolstoy, emphasized its ease of learning, and both the early history of the language and contemporary experience show that the receptive and productive skills entailed in learning the language are unusually mutually reinforcing. In formal language-learning situations, students are able to reach an acceptable level of proficiency relatively quickly, allowing them to put the language to practical use. They are also able to learn on their own. Ease of learning builds confidence, so that Esperanto constitutes a good introduction to language study in general, even though the language is more complex linguistically than it may appear at first sight. The language also helps the learning of cultural sensitivity. In recent years, electronic aids to teaching and learning have proliferated and there are many resources available to the teacher and learner.
Temporal observation and diagnostic use of double Rayleigh scattering in distributed Raman amplifiers

We have directly observed double Rayleigh scattering in the time domain inside a distributed fiber Raman amplifier. We present a simple model that is in good agreement with our experimental results at 1308 nm, and demonstrate diagnostic use of this method.
Fructose-induced stress signaling in the liver involves methylglyoxal

Background: Fructose produces hepatic insulin resistance in humans and animals. We have proposed that the selective metabolism of fructose by the liver can, under conditions of elevated fructose delivery, inflict a metabolic insult that is localized to the hepatocyte. The present study was designed to identify potential cellular effectors of this insult. Methods: Primary hepatocytes were incubated with 8 mM glucose and 0.12% inulin (G, n = 6) or 8 mM glucose, 0.12% inulin and 28 mU of inulinase (GF, n = 6) in the presence or absence of insulin for 0, 2, or 4 h. Results: GF produced fructose concentrations of ~0.7 mM over the 4 h experiment. GF induced phosphorylation of MKK7 and JNK, phosphorylation of serine307 on IRS-1, and reduced tyrosine phosphorylation of IRS-1 and -2. GF increased ceramide levels and reactive oxygen species (ROS); however inhibitors of ceramide synthesis or ROS accumulation did not prevent GF-mediated changes in MKK7, JNK or IRS proteins. GF increased cellular methylglyoxal concentrations and a selective increase in methylglyoxal recapitulated the GF-induced changes in MKK7, JNK and IRS proteins.
Digital control of a three-phase series-parallel uninterruptible power supply/active filter system

In this paper, a new digital deadbeat controller is designed, implemented, and applied to a three-phase series-parallel line-interactive uninterruptible power supply (UPS). This topology consists of a parallel and a series converter. In this topology, most of the power is supplied directly from the AC line to the load. Therefore, the overall efficiency is higher than that of the on-line UPS. The controller adjusts the current of the parallel converter and voltage of the series converter and follows the reference with two and four sampling periods, respectively. Current and voltage control of the system in different operating modes are discussed. Simulation and experimental results are presented, which show the viability of the proposed controller for this topology.
Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube placement in patients with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation

Introduction: Inadequate nutritional support after mechanical circulatory device placement is known to increase postoperative infections and to decrease survival. The extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) patients with complicated postoperative recovery may require long-term nutritional support using percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube feeding. In this study, the feasibility of PEG procedure on patients on ECMO was evaluated. Methods: Between November 2010 and July 2012, 43 patients were placed on venoarterial or venovenous ECMO for cardiogenic shock or severe respiratory failure. All of the long-term ECMO patients were supported with tube feeding. Four patients underwent PEG tube placement for long-term nutritional support while they were on ECMO. Procedure management consisted of cessation of anticoagulation 12 hours before and 12 hours after procedure. Anticoagulation was continued while on ECMO. Data were retrospectively analyzed to investigate complications related to the PEG placement. Results: The studied patients consisted of two males and two females with a mean age of 55.5±7.9 years. The interval of ECMO to PEG placement was a mean 16.8±4.2 days. The mean total length of ECMO support for these patients was 22.7±5.6 days. PEG was successfully performed in the operating room or bedside in all patients. There were no ECMO-device-related issues during or after the PEG procedure. There were no postoperative short-term or long-term PEG-related complications, such as, acute gastric bleeding or dislodgement of the PEG tube. Conclusions: PEG placement for ECMO patients can be done without increasing the risk of device or intra-abdominal organ injury with carefully coordinated efforts from both the intensive care team and surgical services. Keywords: ECMO; nutrition; PEG; anticoagulation (Published: 21 January 2013) Citation: Mechanical Circulatory Support 2013, 4 : 20093 - http://dx.doi.org/10.3402/mcs.v4i0.20093
Two-dimensional J-resolved LASER and semi-LASER spectroscopy of human brain

Purpose Two-dimensional J-resolved localized and semi-localized by adiabatic selective refocusing (LASER and semi-LASER) spectroscopy, named “J-resolved LASER” and “J-resolved semi-LASER”, were introduced to suppress chemical shift artifacts, additional J-refocused artifactual peaks from spatially dependent J-coupling evolution, and sensitivity to radiofrequency (RF) field inhomogeneity. Methods Three pairs of adiabatic pulses were employed for voxel localization in J-resolved LASER and two pairs in J-resolved semi-LASER. The first half of t1 period was inserted between the last pair of adiabatic pulses, which was proposed in this work to obtain two-dimensional adiabatic J-resolved spectra of human brain for the first time. Phantom and human experiments were performed to demonstrate their feasibility and advantages over conventional J-resolved spectroscopy (JPRESS). Results Compared to JPRESS, J-resolved LASER or J-resolved semi-LASER exhibited significant suppression of chemical shift artifacts and additional J-refocused peaks from spatially dependent J-coupling evolution, and demonstrated insensitivity to the change of RF frequency offset over large bandwidth. Conclusion Experiments on phantoms and human brains verified the feasibility and strengths of two-dimensional adiabatic J-resolved spectroscopy at 3T. This technique is expected to advance the application of in vivo two-dimensional MR spectroscopy at 3T and higher field strengths for more reliable and accurate quantification of metabolites. Magn Reson Med 71:911–920, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Plant decomposition and litter accumulation in depressional wetlands: Functional performance of two wetland age classes that were created via excavation

Abstract Plant decomposition and litter accumulation are important components of wetland functions, yet they have rarely been evaluated in created wetlands. In this study, eleven 20-yr and six 2-yr-old depressional wetlands, the most common type of created wetlands, were investigated. We measured plant decomposition as mass loss over 507 days for both age classes and litter accumulation as litter (detritus) mass present in the 20-yr-old wetlands. The wetlands were all created via excavation and contained shallow facultative wetland and deeper obligate wetland plant communities that were often dominated by Scirpus cyperinus and Typha latifolia, respectively. In the decomposition study, stems and leaves from each species were harvested from an adjacent 20-yr-old wetland site and placed in separate plastic mesh bags. Bags were deployed in March 1994 and were recovered after 2, 161, 258, 364, and 507 days. In the litter accumulation study, plant litter that accumulated on top of alluvium was harvested in 0.25...
The migration of bound and leaky solutions to the waveguide dispersion relation

The migration of solutions to a single-valued planar waveguide dispersion relation are studied. These migration plots lend insight to the functionality of waveguide devices. Solution migration is illustrated for two different types of waveguide polarizers. >
Supporting parallel applications on clusters of workstations: The Virtual Communication Machine-based architecture

This paper presents a novel networking architecture designed for communication intensive parallel applications running on clusters of workstations (COWs) connected by high speed networks. The architecture addresses what is considered one of the most important problems of cluster-based parallel computing: the inherent inability of scaling the performance of communication software along with the host CPU performance. The Virtual Communication Machine (VCM), resident on the network coprocessor, presents a scalable software solution by providing configurable communication functionality directly accessible at user-level. The VCM architecture is configurable in that it enables the transfer to the VCM of selected communication-related functionality that is traditionally part of the application and/or the host kernel. Such transfers are beneficial when a significant reduction of the host CPU’s load translates into a small increase in the coprocessor’s load. The functionality implemented by the coprocessor is available at the application level as VCM instructions. Host CPU(s) and coprocessor interact through shared memory regions, thereby avoiding expensive CPU context switches. The host kernel is not involved in this interactions it simply “connects” the application to the VCM during the initialization phase and is called infrequently to handle exceptional conditions. Protection is enforced by the VCM based on information supplied by the kernel. The VCM-based communication architecture admits low cost and open implementations, as demonstrated by its current ATM-based implementation based on off-the-shelf hardware components and using standard AAL5 packets. The architecture makes it easy to implement communication software that exhibits negligible overheads on the host CPU(s) and offers latencies and bandwidths close to the hardware limits of the underlying network. These characteristics are due to the VCM’s support for zero-copy messaging with gather/scatter capabilities and the VCM’s direct access to any data structure in an application’s address space. This paper describes two versions of an ATM-based VCM implementation, which differ in the way they use the memory on the network adapter. Their performance under heavy load is compared in the context of a synthetic client/server application. The same application is used to evaluate the scalability of the architecture to multiple VCM-based network interfaces per host. Parallel implementations of the Traveling Salesman Problem and of Georgia Tech Time Warp, an engine for discrete-event simulation, are used to demonstrate VCM functionality and the high performance of its implementation. The distributed- and shared-memory versions of these two applications exhibit comparable performance, despite the significant cost-performance advantage of the distributed-memory platform.
Nonlinear optical vibrational spectroscopy on surface-induced ice structures

Summary form only given. The surface layer structure of ice can be strongly affected by the surface boundary condition. M. Faraday first suggested in 1850 that, even below the freezing temperature, there might exist a thin film of water at the vapor/ice interface. This surface melting phenomenon has been experimentally proven in recent years by various techniques, although quantitative characterization of the phenomenon is still in disarray. Surface melting is, generally speaking, the result of surface-induced disordering. We discuss here the surface-induced effect on ice by a fused quartz substrate and by a Pt(111) substrate. For our study, we used sum-frequency vibrational spectroscopy as a tool.
Bats, emerging infectious diseases, and the rabies paradigm revisited.

The significance of bats as sources of emerging infectious diseases has been increasingly appreciated, and new data have been accumulated rapidly during recent years. For some emerging pathogens the bat origin has been confirmed (such as lyssaviruses, henipaviruses, coronaviruses), for other it has been suggested (filoviruses). Several recently identified viruses remain to be “orphan” but have a potential for further emergence (such as Tioman, Menangle and Pulau viruses). In the present review we summarize information on major bat-associated emerging infections; discuss specific characteristics of bats as carriers of pathogens (from evolutionary, ecological, and immunological positions). We also discuss drivers and forces of an infectious disease emergence, and describe various existing and potential approaches for control and prevention of such infections at individual, populational, and societal levels. Keywords: bats, Chiroptera, emerging infectious disease, rabies, lyssavirus, coronavirus, filovirus, henipavirus, prevention, control (Published: 20 June 2011) Citation: Emerging Health Threats Journal 2011, 4 : 7159 - DOI: 10.3402/ehtj.v4i0.7159
Leadership and Empowerment: A Social Exchange Perspective

This paper proposes that the receipt of negotiating latitude and support for self-worth from superiors empowers subordinates by increasing their perceptions of control. Subordinates reciprocate by performing in accordance with supervisory preferences. Additionally, superiors who utilize empowering leadership practices are predicted to be viewed as fair by subordinates. The results from the analysis of data collected from 92 superior-subordinate dyads support these hypotheses. The implications of empowerment for management are discussed.
An Analysis of Korean Homicide Crime-Scene Actions

Recent studies have focused on how different styles of homicides will be reflected in the different types of behaviors committed by offenders at a crime scene. It is suggested that these different types of behaviors best be understood using two frameworks, expressive/instrumental aggression and planned/unplanned violence, to analyze the way the offender acts at the crime scene. Multidimensional analysis is carried out on the crime-scene actions of 70 Korean homicides. The proposed frameworks are found to be a useful way of classifying homicide offenses, assigning 80% of homicides to a dominant theme. Results also indicate that behavioral differences can be related to the differences in the offender–victim relationship. Finally, implications and suggestions for future research are discussed.
Sequential Detection and Identification of a Change in the Distribution of a Markov-Modulated Random Sequence

The problem of detection and identification of an unobservable change in the distribution of a random sequence is studied via a hidden Markov model (HMM) approach. The formulation is Bayesian, on-line, discrete-time, allowing both single- and multiple- disorder cases, dealing with both independent and identically distributed (i.i.d.) and dependent observations scenarios, allowing for statistical dependencies between the change-time and change-type in both the observation sequence and the risk structure, and allowing for general discrete-time disorder distributions. Several of these factors provide useful new generalizations of the sequential analysis theory for change detection and/or hypothesis testing, taken individually. In this paper, a unifying framework is provided that handles each of these considerations not only individually, but also concurrently. Optimality results and optimal decision characterizations are given as well as detailed examples that illustrate the myriad of sequential change detection and identification problems that fall within this new framework.
Physical studies of protein-DNA complexes by footprinting.

CONTENTS PERSPECTIVES AND OVERVIEW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .... . . 213 FIRST EXAMPLES OF FOOTPRINTING . . . .. " " " 215 PRINCIPLES OF FOOTPRINTING METHODS 218 Protection ........ . . . . . ... . . . ...... " 218 Interference. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 218 FOOTPRINTING REAGENTS 219 Enzymes.... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219 Small Molecules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . " 221 Other Approaches . . . ..... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . " 225 INFORMATION AVAILABLE FROM FOOTPRINTING 226 APPLICATIONS OF FOOTPRINTING TO THE PHYSICAL STUDY OF PROTEIN-DNA COMPLEXES .. 227 Nucleosome Structure ........ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ....... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 227 Quantitative Footprint Titration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 228 DNA Looping Induced by Cooperative Binding of A Repressor to Distant DNA Sites 230 Cooperativity of lac Repressor Binding to Distant Sites . 230 Footprints of Open and Closed Transcription Complexes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . 231 Individual Fingerprints of Transcription Factor lIlA . . . . " 233 CONCLUSIONS AND PROSPECTS . . ... . . . . . . . " 234
A Comparison of Characteristics of Intellectually Gifted and Non-Intellectually Gifted Adolescents and Young Adults Participating in Theatre Arts Programs.

Since 1960, researchers and theoreticians have devoted a great deal of attention to the concept of creativity. They have developed profiles describing the characteristics of highly creative persons and proposed many programs intended to enhance creative expression. They have, however, neither examined nor discussed the characteristics of individuals who are both highly creative and intellectually gifted, and they have not often provided precise descriptions of those qualities as they are manifested in specific fields. This paper is a comparison of the characteristics of highly creative, intellectually gifted and highly creative, non-intellectually gifted adolescents and young adults who have participated actively in theatre arts programs at the secondary and undergraduate levels. Placement of students in the two categories examined was based on scores on individual or group IQ tests and on the author's subjective evaluation, after an extensive period of observation, of the students' levels of creativity. ...
Will improved nutrition help to prevent mental retardation

Abstract Research in several countries has shown a clear association between protein calorie malnutrition in children and subsequent below-average scores on “intelligence” tests. Certain social, environmental and possibly genetic variables may affect both physical and mental development. It is, therefore, not yet known if this association is one of cause and effect, especially in mild or moderate malnutrition. A longitudinal study in Bogota, Colombia is investigating this problem using sex matched siblings. The research design allows some control of environmental and genetic factors. It has often been a problem in home supplementation programs to know whether any food supplement is, in fact, consumed by the target-children. Up to the present there has been no easy field test for evaluation of the utilization of supplements. In the Bogota study the use of D-xylose added to milk powder as a “tracer” has proved feasible and useful. The recent consumption of the supplement can be determined by a simple urine test. A battery of psychological tests has been chosen, validated and standarized for the Bogota study. They include traditional I.Q. instruments and also cognitive tests based on Piagetian psychology. Preliminary results indicate that the mean scores vary considerably both with nutritional status and with social class using the Griffiths Scale. In contrast the Piagetian tests show very small differences with social class.
Epigenetic activation of unintegrated HIV-1 genomes by gut-associated short chain fatty acids and its implications for HIV infection

Integration of HIV-1 linear DNA into the host chromatin is an essential step in the viral life cycle. However, the majority of reverse-transcribed, nuclear-imported viral genomes remain episomal, either as linear or circular DNA. To date, these nonintegrated viral genomes are largely considered "dead-end products" of reverse transcription. Indeed, limited gene expression from nonintegrated HIV-1 has been reported, although the mechanism that renders nonintegrating HIV-1 genomes incapable of supporting efficient viral replication has not been fully elucidated. Here, we demonstrate that nonintegrating HIV-1 and HIV-1-based vector genomes are organized into chromatin structures and enriched with histone modifications typical of transcriptionally silenced chromatin. Gene expression and replication of nonintegrating HIV-1 was notably increased in vitro upon exposure to histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) in the form of various short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) known to be endogenously produced by normal microbial-gut flora. Furthermore, we demonstrated genetic and functional crosstalk between episomal and integrated vector/viral genomes, resulting in recombination between integrated and nonintegrated HIV-1, as well as mobilization of episomal vector genomes by productive viral particles encoded by integrated viral genomes. Finally, we propose a mechanism describing the role of episomal HIV-1 forms in the viral life cycle in a SCFA-rich gut environment.
Knowledge-based DSS for construction contractor prescreening

This paper presents the development of a knowledge-based decision support system for predicting construction contract bond claims using contractor financial data. The learning and refining sub-system of the proposed DSS employs Inductive Learning and Neural Networks to extract the problem solving knowledge to catch the contractor's deteriorating financial condition. The acquired knowledge is stored in the knowledge sub-system and continually updated to incorporate recent additional information. This acquired knowledge augments the existing statistical models including multiple discriminate analysis, regression, and logistic regression models. We propose a framework for integrating fragmented models and knowledge into a DSS so that sureties can analyze the outcome of each model and knowledge in what-if manner. Moreover, proposed DSS is equipped with the meta-knowledge selecting the most suitable models and knowledge for the given situation intelligently thus providing peer-opinion for the sureties.
Diurnal Variations in Cloud Frequency over the Gulf Stream Locale

Abstract This paper documents evidence of a diurnal variability in cloudiness over the Gulf Stream locale. The Gulf Stream locale (GSL) is defined as the region covering 31°38°N, 82°71°W. The Gulf Stream, which occupies a portion of the GSL, is a warm current of water that flows south to north along the east coast of the United States and provides conditions conducive for the development of cloudiness. Cloud heights derived from the GOES VISSR (Visible-infrared Spin Scan Radiometer) Atmospheric Sounder (VAS) are obtained and used to produce a 7-yr climatology of the diurnal variation in the frequency of low-, middle-,and high-level cloudiness. The climatology is segregated into summer and winter seasons. Diurnal variations are found during the summer and winter. Satellite observations over land indicate a maximum in the frequency of low cloudiness during daytime and a minimum at night. In addition, high cloudiness is found to increase significantly late in the afternoon and evening. Over the Gulf Stream...
Viability, Remodeling, and CABG: Another STICH in the Shroud of Observation-Based Paradigm?

Following myocardial infarction, left ventricular (LV) remodeling is characterized by increased LV end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes (ESV) and decreased LV ejection fraction (EF) [(1)][1]. This process is driven by elongation of infarcted zones and changes within the unaffected myocardium,
Multiple Origins of Sex Differences in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is considered one of the most prevalent psychiatric disorders; by some criteria it affects about 10 % of school-aged children and nearly 5 % of adults. The current diagnostic criteria evolved from the core features (attention deficits and behavioral excesses) described over 100 years ago by Still (1902). More males than females are recognized and treated for ADHD, but the observed sex difference is smaller in adults than children. To address the topic of the multiple origins of sex differences in ADHD, we discuss some factors that influence ADHD-related sex differences: (1) secular trends that have recently increased the recognition and treatment of ADHD, (2) diagnostic approaches based on the evaluation of symptom severity (a categorical approach) compared to underlying behaviors (a dimensional approach), and (3) study designs that are longitudinal or cross-sectional.
The Medium-Term Impacts of High-Achieving Charter Schools

Using survey data from the Promise Academy in the Harlem Children’s Zone, we estimate the effects of high-performing charter schools on human capital, risky behaviors, and health outcomes. Six year...
Measurement of the B 11 + Tb 159 complete-fusion cross section

The complete-fusion cross section for the $^{170}\mathrm{Yb}$ compound system, formed in the reaction of 115 MeV $^{11}\mathrm{B}$ with $^{159}\mathrm{Tb}$, has been measured using a counter telescope containing a thin gas proportional counter and a Si surface-barrier detector. The result is in excellent agreement with that obtained using mica track detectors.NUCLEAR REACTIONS Complete fusion $^{159}\mathrm{Tb}$($^{11}\mathrm{B}$, $^{170}\mathrm{Yb}$*), $E=115$ MeV; measured $\ensuremath{\sigma}(\ensuremath{\theta})$ for evaporation residues.
The Feynman integral

(1975). The Feynman Integral. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 82, No. 5, pp. 451-465.
Steric Mapping of the L-Methionine Binding Site of ATP:L-Methionine S-Adenosyltransferase

Three-dimensional steric mapping of the L-methionine binding site of mammalian (rat liver) ATP:L-methionine S-adenosyltransferase (EC 2.5.1.6) has been accomplished by computing the combined occupied volume of six inhibitory, conformationally rigid, amino acid analogues that have been shown in previous studies, which used an enzyme preparation of undetermined isozymic composition, to bind to the enzyme surface in competition with L-methionine. [Coulter, A. W., J. B. Lombardini, J. R. Sufrin, and P. Talalay. Mol. Pharmacol.10:319-334 (1974); Sufrin, J. R., A. W. Coulter, and P. Talalay. Mol. Pharmacol.15:661-677 (1979).] These six amino acids, all of which are derivatives of 1-aminocyclopentane-1-carboxylic acid, include (1R,2R,4S)-2-aminonorbornane-2-carboxylic acid, (1S,2S,4R)-2-aminonorbornane-2-carboxylic acid, (1R,2S,4S)-2-aminonorbornane-2-carboxylic acid, (1R,2R,4S)-2-amino-5,6-exo-trimethylenenorbornane-2-carboxylic acid, 7-aminonorbornane-7-carboxylic acid, and 9-aminofluorene-9-carboxylic acid. This has generated an "enzyme-excluded" volume map, which defines that region of the active site known to be available for binding by substrates or inhibitors structurally related to L-methionine. Volume mapping of three conformationally rigid analogues which possess the minimal structural requirements for recognition, but nevertheless are inactive, has been carried out to determine their unique volume requirements that are not associated with the enzyme-excluded volume. These inactive amino acids are (1S,2R,4R)-2-aminonorbornane-2-carboxylic acid, (1R,2R,4S)-2-aminobicyclo[3.2.1]octane-2-carboxylic acid, and 2-aminoadamantane-2-carboxylic acid. Intersection of the unique volume segments of the three inactive analogues shows one region of unique volume overlap for all three molecules and defines an "enzyme-essential" region, i.e., a region required by the enzyme itself and not available for ligand binding.
Effects of simvastatin on the expression of inducible NOS in acute lung injury in septic rats.

Background: The available evidence suggests that simvastatin plays a beneficial role in lung injury. In addition, statins have been shown to inhibit the activity of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of simvastatin on iNOS expression based on a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced septic rat model. Methods: Thirty-six rats were randomly divided into 3 groups (control group, sepsis group and simvastatin group). A rat model of sepsis was established with LPS. The simvastatin group was pre-treated with simvastatin, whereas the control and sepsis groups were treated with saline before LPS treatment. LPS was injected into the rats in the simvastatin and sepsis groups, while as a negative control, the control group received saline alone. The oxygenation index, expression levels of iNOS and IL-6, and pathological integral of lung injury were analyzed to evaluate the effect of simvastatin on septic rats. Results: Compared with the septic group, significant decreases in the oxygenation index and expression level of iNOS were observed in the simvastatin group. Furthermore, simvastatin treatment resulted in a significant decrease in iNOS levels and the pathological integral of lung injury score in septic rats. Conclusion: Simvastatin can relieve acute lung injury induced by sepsis in rats. Decreasing iNOS levels may contribute to the protective role of simvastatin in lung injury.
Dimeric anthracene-based mechanophore particles for damage precursor detection in reinforced epoxy matrix composites

The problem of catastrophic damage purveys in any material application, and minimizing its occurrence is paramount for general health and safety. We have successfully synthesized, characterized, and applied dimeric 9-anthracene carboxylic acid (Di-AC)-based mechanophore particles to form stress sensing epoxy matrix composites. As Di-AC had never been previously applied as a mechanophore and thermosets are rarely studied in mechanochemistry, this created an alternative avenue for study in the field. Under an applied stress, the cyclooctane-rings in the Di-AC particles reverted back to their fluorescent anthracene form, which linearly enhanced the overall fluorescence of the composite in response to the applied strain. The fluorescent signal further allowed for stress sensing in the elastic region of the stress–strain curve, which is considered to be a form of damage precursor detection. Overall, the incorporation of Di-AC to the epoxy matrix added much desired stress sensing and damage precursor detection capabilities with good retention of the material properties.
ON BAYES AND EMPIRICAL BAYES TWO-STAGE ALLOCATION PROCEDURES FOR SELECTION PROBLEMS

We investigate the problem of deriving two-stage allocation procedures for selecting the best normal population. If the prior distribution is assumed to be known, an exact Bayes two-stage allocation procedure is obtained. If the prior distribution depends on some unknown parameter, an adaptive two-stage allocation procedure is proposed. Using the empirical Bayes formulation, we prove that the proposed adaptive two-stage allocation procedure has some asymptotic optimality property.
Small Molecule Anchored to Mesoporous ITO for High-Contrast Black Electrochromics

We developed transmissive-to-black electrochromic devices by assembling p-aminotriphenlyamine (pAT) on the surface of mesoporous tin-doped indium oxide (mITO) electrodes. pAT-modified electrodes possess an optical contrast ratio of up to 64%, switching speeds of 1–4 s, and enhanced chemical reversibility as compared to unbound pAT in solution. Gel permeation chromatography (GPC) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) were used to analyze the electrochemical degradation products of pAT-modified electrodes and pAT in solution. The rare transparent-to-black electrochromism of pAT makes it a promising small-molecule, anodically coloring material for smart window applications.
Consequences of Intermittent PTH Treatment on Myeloma Growth, Bone Disease and Molecular Profiling of Whole Myelomatous Bone

Abstract 4063 Intermittent PTH (iPTH) treatment is bone anabolic and has been successfully used for treatment of osteoporosis. The aims of the study were to investigate the effects of iPTH-induced bone formation on myeloma progression and unravel molecular mechanisms associated with these effects, using the SCID-rab and SCID-hu models. Using our reported procedure (Xin et al., BJH 2007), we established a novel myeloma cell line, Hg, capable of sequential passaging in experimental models. Hg cells have similar gene expression profiling (GEP) as the original patient9s plasma cells, are classified in the MMSET subtype and express DKK1. SCID-hu or SCID-rab (8-10 hosts/group in each model) mice engrafted with Hg myeloma cells were subcutaneously treated with saline or iPTH (80 ug/kg/day) for 4 weeks. Overall, whereas BMD of the myelomatous bones in saline-treated hosts was similarly reduced in SCID-rab and SCID-hu mice by 14±5%, it was increased by 10±2% in iPTH-treated hosts (p 50% (p Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Firm network structure and innovation

Abstract This study examines how various dimensions of a firm's network affect innovation and pricing of innovation by market participants. We use board interlocks to build interfirm network and construct different network measures to capture firm centrality in the interfirm network, cohesion within firm network, and diversity, innovativeness, and propinquity of firm network. Our results show that these different characteristics of network connectedness affect firm innovation input and output, particularly for firms in relatively intangible industries. These results are robust to the use of an instrumental variables approach as well as a natural experiment of state-level changes in R&D tax credits. We also find that innovation has a positive (negative) marginal effect on corporate bond yield spreads when firms have lower (higher) connectedness, suggesting that the market perceives innovative activities by more connected firms as less uncertain. Yield spread changes around patent filings further support this finding.
The Measurement and Analysis of College Student Satisfaction.

This paper deals with the development and current status of the College Student Satisfaction Questionnaire, part of a project directed at the systematic study of college student satisfaction as an ...
A Case of Rituximab-Induced Necrotizing Fasciitis and a Review of the Literature

Necrotizing fasciitis is a fulminant soft tissue infection characterized by rapid progression and high mortality. Rituximab is a generally well-tolerated immunosuppresive medication used for B-cell malignancies and some rheumatological disorders. We report a case of a 69-year-old male with chronic lymphocytic leukemia who suffered necrotizing fasciitis of his left lower extremity secondary to Clostridium septicum 7 weeks after treatment with rituximab. Despite immediate intravenous antimicrobial therapy and emergent fasciotomy with extensive debridement, his hospital course was complicated by septic shock and he required an above-the-knee amputation. Physicians need to be aware of the possibility of necrotizing fasciitis in patients presenting with skin infections after rituximab therapy.
A data-driven preprocessing scheme on anomaly detection in big data applications

Efficient anomaly detection mechanisms are becoming an urgent and critical topic in the presence of big data applications. In this paper, we propose a data-driven preprocessing scheme on anomaly detection that incorporates a dimensionality reduction algorithm and present a real-time learning idea for big data applications. Specifically, we make extensive use of the robust data preprocessing and a real-time data learning approach. The proposed robust data preprocessing scheme not only preserves the critical property of dimensionality reduction for high-dimensional data, but also introduces a robust detection boundary to the presence of outliers. The real-time learning method is inspired by online learning, which differs from batch based data processing that performs data learning on an entire batch of data set. Real-time learning aims to make progress with each example it looks at. Detailed discussions are provided for the justification of this scheme. A case study is presented to demonstrate the feasibility of the application of the proposed scheme.
Structural and Kinetic Studies of Asp632 Mutants and Fully Reduced NADPH-Cytochrome P450 Oxidoreductase Define the Role of Asp632 Loop Dynamics in the Control of NADPH Binding and Hydride Transfer.

Conformational changes in NADPH-cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase (CYPOR) associated with electron transfer from NADPH to electron acceptors via FAD and FMN have been investigated via structural studies of the four-electron-reduced NADP+-bound enzyme and kinetic and structural studies of mutants that affect the conformation of the mobile Gly631–Asn635 loop (Asp632 loop). The structure of four-electron-reduced, NADP+-bound wild type CYPOR shows the plane of the nicotinamide ring positioned perpendicular to the FAD isoalloxazine with its carboxamide group forming H-bonds with N1 of the flavin ring and the Thr535 hydroxyl group. In the reduced enzyme, the C8–C8 atoms of the two flavin rings are ∼1 A closer than in the fully oxidized and one-electron-reduced structures, which suggests that flavin reduction facilitates interflavin electron transfer. Structural and kinetic studies of mutants Asp632Ala, Asp632Phe, Asp632Asn, and Asp632Glu demonstrate that the carboxyl group of Asp632 is important for stabilizing th...
Perceiving Airbnb as sharing economy: the issue of trust in using Airbnb

Airbnb is a growing business and has received much research attention. However, no research has specifically examined complaints against Airbnb. Understanding complaints serves not as a way to help...
Does Higher Turnout Hurt Incumbents? An Analysis of State Elections in India:

Conventional wisdom holds that an increase in voter turnout hurts incumbents in Indian elections. This belief has become a central feature of how analysts discuss Indian voter behaviour. Yet there ...
A new puzzle about belief and credence

I present a puzzle about belief and credence, which takes the form of three independently supported views that are mutually inconsistent. The first is the view that S has a modal belief that p (e.g., S believes that probably-p) if and only if S has a corresponding credence that p. The second is the view that S believes that p only if S has some credence that p. The third is the view that, possibly, S believes that p without a modal belief that p. [Word Count: 85]
Islam, Religious Outlooks, and Support for Democracy:

Despite a wealth of studies examining Muslim religiosity and democracy, uncertainty regarding Islam and attitudes toward democracy remains. Although the claims concerning the incompatibility of Isl...
Ultrasonic spray pyrolysis synthesis of nitrogen-doped porous Fe/C composites from glycerol for hexavalent chromium removal

Abstract Nitrogen-doped porous carbon spheres impregnated with iron nanoparticles (Fe/C-N) are prepared from glycerol, a by-product of the biodiesel industry, and ferric ammonium citrate (FAC) via ultrasonic spray pyrolysis (USP). Carbon microspheres are generated during rapid (
Alternative Lengthening of Telomeres through Two Distinct Break-Induced Replication Pathways.

Alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) is a telomerase-independent but recombination-dependent pathway that maintains telomeres. Here, we describe an assay to visualize ALT-mediated telomeric DNA synthesis in ALT-associated PML bodies (APBs) without DNA-damaging agents or replication inhibitors. Using this assay, we find that ALT occurs through two distinct mechanisms. One of the ALT mechanisms requires RAD52, a protein implicated in break-induced DNA replication (BIR). We demonstrate that RAD52 directly promotes telomeric D-loop formation in vitro and is required for maintaining telomeres in ALT-positive cells. Unexpectedly, however, RAD52 is dispensable for C-circle formation, a hallmark of ALT. In RAD52-knockout ALT cells, C-circle formation and RAD52-independent ALT DNA synthesis gradually increase as telomeres are shortened, and these activities are dependent on BLM and BIR proteins POLD3 and POLD4. These results suggest that ALT occurs through a RAD52-dependent and a RAD52-independent BIR pathway, revealing the bifurcated framework and dynamic nature of this process.
Safety and effectiveness of resistance exercise training in a pilot study of patients with late onset Pompe disease

Pompe Disease is a rare inherited disorder associated with muscle weakness and respiratory insufficiency which can affect all ages, ethnicities, and gender. It is caused by the accumulation of glycogen primarily in cardiac and skeletal muscle. There are two forms of the disease, classic infantile form and juvenile/adult form. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of the supervised resistance training program on muscle strength, functional capacity and body composition in patients with late onset Pompe disease. The study includes 10 patients over a 32 week study of increased resistance exercise 3 times a week in a gym with a personal trainer. The patients also undertook respiratory muscle exercise training daily with increasing resistance every 2 months. Each patient served as their own control (Weeks 1 - 8 baseline period) and subsequently physical strength, stamina and respiratory function was tested with the Biodex and hand held dynamometers, 6 minute walk test (6MWT), maximum/minimum inspiratory pressure (MIP/MEP), SF-36 questionnaire, muscle volume and texture change using MRI, and blood and urine collections of tetrasaccharide. Throughout the study, we found that there was an overall improvement in the patient’s muscle strength by Biodex dynamometry, MRC scores and 6MWT. For example, knee and elbow extension torque improved by a mean of 21.6% and a 41.6% respectively. The 6MWT showed an average improvement of 6.58%, and total MRC scores showed an improvement of 2.1% from initial to final visit. There was a marked improvement in the respiratory parameters in the majority of patients the MIP showed an increase of 25% while MEP increased by 10%. Overall, patients also had an improved sense of well being with very few adverse side effects.
Risk Factors for Baseball-Related Arm Injuries: A Systematic Review:

Background:Contributing factors for arm injuries among baseball players have been described. However, no review has systematically identified risk factors with findings from prospective cohort stud...
Assessing opinions and barriers to providing evidence-based tobacco treatment among health care providers within an in-patient psychiatric facility.

Background: Tobacco-related morbidity and mortality is high among people with mental illnesses (PMI); yet tobacco treatment (TT) is often not provided by mental health care providers (MHPs). Studie...