cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Non-Intrusive Piston Position Measurement System Using Magnetic Field Measurements

This paper proposes a novel sensing system for the non-intrusive real-time measurement of piston position inside a cylinder. The proposed sensor exploits the principle that any ferromagnetic object has an inherent magnetic field which varies as a function of position around the object. Through modeling the magnetic field as a function of position and using sensors to measure magnetic field intensity, the position of the object can be estimated. This principle is used to measure the piston position in a free piston engine without requiring any sensors inside the engine cylinder. The piston is approximated as a rectangular metallic object and the variation of the magnetic field around it is modeled. A challenge arises from the fact that the parameters of the model vary from engine to engine and are cumbersome to calibrate for each engine. This challenge is addressed by utilizing two magnetic field sensors with known longitudinal separation between them. A number of estimation methods are proposed that identify and update magnetic field parameters in real time without requiring an additional linear variable differential transformer (LVDT) sensor for calibration. The advantages and performance of these estimation methods are compared. Experimental results from a free piston engine setup show that the proposed sensor can provide 0.4 mm accuracy in position estimates. The proposed sensing concept can be utilized for piston position measurement in multi-cylinder SI and diesel engines, hydraulic cylinders, pneumatic cylinders, and in many other position measurement applications.
The Cell Story: Syrian Prison Stories after Hafiz Asad

Prison can be a key to creativity, but it can also be a trap. How could I write without exaggeration, without needing to convince the reader of the evil I had experienced? How could I prevent polit...
Airway heat and gas exchange

The usual approach to analysis of pulmonary gas exchange deals with the airways as a dead space that does not participate in gas exchange and acts simply as a conduit for the passage of air between the outside environment and the alveoli. In reality, however, inspired air undergoes some change during its trans-airway passage. The relatively cool and dry air is heated and humidified protecting the delicate lower airway epithelium from thermal and desiccation injuries. During inspiration relatively dry and cool air passes through the nasal cavity (or mouth) and pharynx and into the trachea. Then, the air encounters a branching network of airways. The airway surface is lined with a moist mucous layer with which air exchanges water, heat, and soluble gases. This mucous layer exchanges with the underlying epithelial tissue which, in turn, exchanges with the subepithelial tissue and the bronchial circulation.
REPAIR OF PSORALEN PLUS NEAR ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT DAMAGE IN BACTERIOPHAGE T4

— The sensitivity of bacteriophage T4 to psoralen plus NUV was investigated using a series of T4 repair defective mutants. The recombinational repair deficient mutants T4x, T4y and T4w were more sensitive than wild-type; while T4v, an endonuclease V mutant, exhibited the same sensitivity as wild-type. However, endonuclease V appears to initiate abortive repair in the absence of the x and presumably y gene products. Host repair gene products were shown not to be involved in the repair of psoralen plus NUV damages in T4.
Mexican national cross-border shopping: Exploration of retail tourism

Abstract This exploration of cross-border shopping by Mexican national shoppers at a regional discount outlet mall studies the: (1) economic impacts of their expenditures on the local and regional economies, and (2) activities they engage in while at the outlet malls and benefits received from shopping there. Spending by cross-border shoppers varied by accommodation type; hotels or motels/friends and family spent approximately $800 (U.S.) on clothing daily and condominiums/day visitors between $400 and $475 (U.S.). The multiplier for cross-border spending at the local level ranged from 1.27 to 1.45. Top cross-border shopper activities were shopping and buying, followed by eating, and visiting.
A re-examination of boundary layer theory for a horizontal CVD reactor

Abstract A critical re-examination has been made of the boundary layer theory for diffusion limited growth in a horizontal CVD reactor, and closed form expressions for the growth rate determined using several approximations. These have been used to find the boundary layer thickness, based on a diffusion model; the results have been compared to the boundary layer thickness which is based on a velocity model. It is shown that these boundary layer thicknesses are proportional over certain regimes of operation, beyond which the growth rate drops off exponentially with distance. Finally, the limits of accuracy for the boundary layer theory were determined by comparison with numerical computations.
Localization of singlet excitation in short silicon chains, Si2Me6 to Si6Me14

Abstract In argon matrix isolation, permethylated linear oligosilanes with six or fewer silicon atoms in the chain exhibit nearly identical broad strongly Stokes-shifted fluorescence. As the chain becomes shorter, the emission becomes weaker and its peak red-shifts slightly. We propose that the emission is due to a non-vertical excited state with a single greatly stretched SiSi bond, in which the excitation is localized, and support the proposal by ab initio calculations on Si 2 H 6 .
Design of multiple stage avionics lightning protection for DC power input lines using a graphical user interface (GUI)

All interfaces to electronic equipment on aircraft (avionics) are required to tolerate the indirect effects of lightning transients. Designing protection against high levels of lightning transients for DC power input lines presents a unique challenge in that gas discharge tubes (GDT) may function in an undesired manner when installed on power lines. An alternate solution to GDTs is to cascade multiple protection circuits. This paper presents an example design. In addition, a GUI developed to facilitate the design of lightning protection circuits is introduced and used for the example design.
An enriched discontinuous Galerkin formulation for the coupling of non-conforming meshes

Finite element modeling using non-conforming meshes requires an interface model that ensures geometric compatibility and a complete transfer of surface tractions between the connecting elements at the non-conforming interfaces. Most currently available coupling methods are dual approaches that employ a field of Lagrange multipliers to enforce geometric compatibility at the interface. The choice of the Lagrange multiplier field is not trivial since not all possible interpolations satisfy the inf-sup or Ladyzhenskaya-Babuska-Brezzi (LBB) condition. The primal discontinuous Galerkin (DG) and Nitsche methods are not subject to the LBB restrictions, however, in both these methods a mesh-dependent penalty parameter is required to ensure stability [24,2]. We propose a primal interface formulation that makes use of a local enrichment of the interface elements to enable an unbiased enforcement of geometric compatibility at all interface nodes without inducing over-constraint and without introducing additional variables. We show that a local DG-based interface stabilization procedure guarantees a consistent transfer of the traction field across the non-conforming interface.
Visualization and the art of metaphor

This tutorial is designed for students in various disciplines (arts & sciences) that traditionally work in other media and would like to integrate visualization into their work to enhance communication of ideas and concepts. Attendees that are already using visualization methods in their work can benefit from this tutorial because they will be exposed to different methods as it provides an environment to improve communication skills and the opportunity to acquire visual literacy. This tutorial provides an examination of different kinds of visualization concepts, which will be exemplified by the work of different artists and scientists, both historical and current. In addition to the lecture component the course provides hands-on experience with a laboratory assignment. The tutorial is based on a the class co-created and taught by Jack Ox and Judith v. der Elst, Fall '06, at the ARTS Lab, University of New Mexico.
Mechanistic studies of ethylene hydrophenylation catalyzed by bipyridyl Pt(II) complexes.

Cationic platinum(II) complexes [(tbpy)Pt(Ph)(L)]+ [tbpy =4,4′-di-tert-butyl-2,2′-bipyridyl; L = THF, NC5F5, or NCMe] catalyze the hydrophenylation of ethylene to generate ethylbenzene and isomers of diethylbenzene. Using ethylene as the limiting reagent, an 89% yield of alkyl arene products is achieved after 4 h at 120 °C. Catalyst efficiency for ethylene hydrophenylation is diminished only slightly under aerobic conditions. Mechanistic studies support a reaction pathway that involves ethylene coordination to Pt(II), insertion of ethylene into the Pt–phenyl bond, and subsequent metal-mediated benzene C–H activation. Studies of stoichiometric benzene (C6H6 or C6D6) C–H/C–D activation by [(tbpy)Pt(Ph-dn)(THF)]+ (n = 0 or 5) indicate a kH/kD = 1.4(1), while comparative rates of ethylene hydrophenylation using C6H6 and C6D6 reveal kH/kD = 1.8(4) for the overall catalytic reaction. DFT calculations suggest that the transition state for benzene C–H activation is the highest energy species along the catalytic c...
THE ARTHROSCOPIC MANAGEMENT OF INTRA-ARTICULAR DISTAL RADIUS FRACTURES

Intra-operative arthroscopy and fluoroscopy provide improved visualisation and guide the restoration of intra-articular distal radial fractures while minimising the operative dissection required for their stabilisation. Radial styloid fractures, distal radial fractures with dorsal, palmar or combined ulnar-sided "die punch" fragments, palmar and dorsal Barton's fractures, and various three- and four-part intra-articular fractures without significant bone loss or defect are especially suited for this technique. The experienced arthroscopist may wish to apply the technique to more severely comminuted intra-articular fractures. Bone defects may be approached through a limited dorsal incision traversing the 3rd dorsal wrist compartment. Arthroscopy and fluoroscopy may be used adjunctively to assess fracture reduction and fixation. Arthoscopy further facilitates initial treatment by allowing direct joint visualisation, debridement, the removal of small free intra-articular fragments, and the recognition and early treatment of wrist ligament injuries, particularly those not appreciated by X-ray evaluation.
Increasing Cervical Cancer Screening for a Multiethnic Population of Women in South Texas

Cervical cancer is a preventable disease. Precancers can be identified and treated through cervical screenings. The HPV vaccine prevents precancers from becoming cancers. The aim of the A Su Salud Cervical Cancer Prevention Program was to apply well-understood health promotion techniques and increase the rate of cervical cancer screening among a high-risk, multiethnic, low-income population in South Texas. Qualitative research was used to identify uptake barriers and tailor media messaging. Using existing resources, we applied evidence-based strategies in novel ways that changed personal behaviors, leading to cancer screening, risk reduction, and early detection. We created a database to track a cohort of 32,807 women and measured cervical cancer screenings over 3 years. Our analysis revealed an increase in cervical cancer screenings after use of highly targeted automated telephone reminders and media dissemination on multiple platforms. Those women at low risk for cervical cancer obtained the highest proportion of Pap tests. This innovative, theory-based program increased overall Pap tests up to 9 % among women enrolled in a safety net hospital financial assistance plan. This study fills a gap in research on Pap test compliance in uninsured, mostly Hispanic women by building on cultural strengths and tailored messaging.
Algorithm development for online control of the ABL

In optics, Zernike orthogonal polynomials are used as a basis set for the expansion of wavefront phases. Due to the atmospheric turbulence-induced stochastic nature of the underlying process involved, the spatial-temporal correlation functions of the Zernike polynomial phase expansion coefficients must be evaluated if adaptive optics is to be employed. In this paper, these correlation functions are developed using a layered atmospheric model and calculations for the first few low-order Zernike modes are performed. Using these correlation functions, an underlying linear dynamical system is identified. Within an acceptable error bound, the correlation functions of this system are representative of the calculated correlation functions. This syste, in turn, provides the basis for the employment of advanced control and estimation concepts in an adaptive optics system that is being developed for the ABL.
Melatonin prevents increases in neural nitric oxide and cyclic GMP production after transient brain ischemia and reperfusion in the Mongolian gerbil (Meriones Unguiculatus)

While nitric oxide (NO) has been implicated as a mediator of glutamate excitotoxicity after cerebral ischemia/reperfusion, melatonin has been reported to inhibit brain NO production by suppressing nitric oxide synthase. The purpose of the present studies was to determine the effect of exogenous melatonin administration on NO-induced changes during brain ischemia/reperfusion. Indicators of cerebral cortical and cerebellar NO production [nitrite/nitrate levels and cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)] were used to estimate neural changes after transient bilateral carotid artery ligation followed by reperfusion in adult Mongolian gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus). Results show for the first time that melatonin prevents the increases in NO and cGMP production after transient ischemia/reperfusion in frontal cerebral cortex and cerebellum of Mongolian gerbils. The inhibitory effect of melatonin on NO production and its ability to scavenge free radicals and the peroxynitrite anion may be responsible for the protective effect of melatonin on neuronal structures during transient ischemia followed by reperfusion.
SAR Image Analysis to Estimate Freeze-Thawdates for a High Latitude Lake in Alaska

This paper presents a novel method to estimate freeze-thaw dates of a small lake, with area 10 km2, using SAR data from RADARSAT-1 remote sensing spacecraft. The algorithms analyze an annual time series of the difference in average backscatter, between the lake and the surrounding region, to estimate the day of occurrence of the respective lake ice event. The initial results obtained, using multi-year data from a northern high-latitude lake, are promising. The mean absolute error in estimating the thaw date is 0.7 days and for the freeze date it is 4 days. These results encourage further testing of these algorithms on lakes in other geographic regions.
Religiosity Related to Grief Levels of Bereaved Mothers and Fathers.

In previous research, religiosity has been associated with decreased death anxiety. This study looked at religiosity, as measured by church affiliation and attendance, in relation to bereaved mothe...
College Students' Writing: An Assessment of Competence

Abstract The following 3 focuses were identified in this study: (a) analyzing the characteristics of students' writing that most contributed to their passing or failing the Subject A Examination, an evaluation of student writing competence required by the University of California; (b) designing instruction to help college-bound students develop their writing with respect to criteria essential for competent writing; and (c) assessing the effectiveness of the instruction in (b) above. First, 250 Subject A Examinations that had been scored holistically were evaluated according to an analytic scoring guide with the following 5 components: issue, position, support, macrolevel skills, and microlevel skills, Second, the instruction given to Grade 11 honors English students was designed to improve writing, particularly with regard to position and support. The writing consisted of the following types: (a) examples of previously scored Subject A Examinations and introduction of the scoring guide, (b) summary writin...
What Constitutes a Well‐Trained Modern Language Teacher?

Author's Summary— The training of an efficient modern language teacher is never-ending. The essentials for such training are here outlined.)
Methods for examining representations of A subject-matter structure in a student's memory

Curricular reform in science and mathematics education has moved from rote learning of facts and computation skiUs toward the learning of a structure of a subject The following reasons are among those commonly cited for this shift: (a) knowledge of structure is required for a full understanding of the subject matter. (b) structural knowledge enhances retention of the subject matter, (c) structural knowledge facilitates problem solving. (d) structural knowledge leads directly t o transfer to similar and (perhaps) new situations, (e) structural knowledge results in intellectual excitement, and (f) structural knowledge leads to an aptitude for learning. Although these reasons for teaching structure are admirable and certainly to be valued, there is little empirical evidence t o support them (recent research bears on some of them).6 I 3 A critical problem for instructional research, then, is to examine behavioral outcomes of learning structure in order to provide information for answering such questions as: (a) to what extent does the structure in a student’s memory correspond t o the subject-matter structure? (b) to what extent d o students with an accurate structural representation of subject matter have an advantage over students with a lesser structural representation in retaining information on the subject? . . . in solving familiar problems? . . . in solving unfamiliar (transfer) problems? And, eventually, the psychologist will provide information bearing on the more ultimate questions: t o what extent does structural learning lead to (a) a better understanding of the subject? (b) an aptitude for learning?, and (c) intellectual excitement? Psychologists have only just begun t o study the educational implications of learning the structure of a subject matter. This paper might be viewed as a progress report on some methodological advances made on certain facets of the problem.
Visualization and analysis of dynamic thermographic changes

An approach to the use of infrared digitized thermal imaging in clinical diagnosis is described. It is based on the temporal analysis of hundreds of consecutive digitized thermal images (thermograms). Like any thermostated system local skin temperature oscillates as it is driven by systemic and local nervous factors. The oscillations, which may be of diagnostic value, can be derived only from dynamic studies. The average temperatures of small areas of the skin on the human back (12 to 25 cm/sup 2/) were used to determine the primary regulatory frequencies using fast Fourier transformation analysis. Both asymptomatic subjects and people with back problems of neurological origin were studied. Preliminary findings show regulatory frequencies which may be associated with pathology. >
How Competitive Is "Competitive" Procurement in the Social Services?

The scholarship on contracting generally argues that markets for social services are weak and lacking in competition. Using data gathered from Florida’s largest social service agency, the Department of Children and Families, this article adds to the discussion by constructing a more rigorous measure of competition that accounts for the quality of bidding entities. The findings indicate that while the measures used in earlier studies align reasonably well with the raw number of initial responders to competitive solicitations, they tend to overestimate competition when the quality component is included in the analysis. That is, social service markets may be even weaker than previously reported. Furthermore, an examination of the relationship between competition and performance fails to find a significant association.
Science to Practice: Can MR imaging replace liver biopsy for the diagnosis of early fibrosis?

Aguirre et al found that the combined use of gadadolinium-based and SPIO contrast agents yields hight sensitivity (93%) for the diagnosis of hepatie fibrosis. Their findings lead the way for further developments to improve the sensitivity of noninvasive imaging methods for diagnosing cirrbosis. With continued advances in this field, liver biopsy may someday become obsolete.
Theology as Grammar: Is God an Object of Understanding?

i. In the Philosophical Investigations, Ludwig Wittgenstein yoked together these remarks:Essence is expressed by grammar.Grammar tells what kind of object anything is. (Theology as grammar) (Inv. I, 373).
Modified FDTD near-to-far-field transformation for improved backscattering calculation of strongly forward-scattering objects

We propose a simple yet effective modification to significantly improve the accuracy of the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) near-to-far-field (NTFF) transformation for calculating the backscattering of objects having strong forward-scattering lobes. In the modified approach, we merely omit integrating over the near-field plane located in the forward-scattering region. We validate the proposed approach via comparison with rigorous analytical solutions of plane waves scattered by single and multiple dielectric spheres.
Analysis, control and design of crossbar and banyan based broadband packet switches, for integrated traffic

Approximate Markov chain models are developed for crossbar and banyan packet switches built with nodes of arbitrary size, with each node having output buffers of arbitrary size, operating in an environment of multiclass traffic with priority. A simple design change is incorporated to obtain a straightforward mechanism to control the throughput of each traffic class. Effects of flexible priority disciplines are presented as a means of controlling the average time delays of each traffic class. Techniques for obtaining the time delay distributions for packets of each traffic class are illustrated. >
Hedgehog Signaling Drives Radioresistance and Stroma-Driven Tumor Repopulation in Head and Neck Squamous Cancers

Local control and overall survival in patients with advanced head and neck squamous cell cancer (HNSCC) remains dismal. Signaling through the Hedgehog (Hh) pathway is associated with epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, and activation of the Hh effector transcription factor Gli1 is a poor prognostic factor in this disease setting. Here, we report that increased GLI1 expression in the leading edge of HNSCC tumors is further increased by irradiation, where it contributes to therapeutic inhibition. Hh pathway blockade with cyclopamine suppressed GLI1 activation and enhanced tumor sensitivity to radiotherapy. Furthermore, radiotherapy-induced GLI1 expression was mediated in part by the mTOR/S6K1 pathway. Stroma exposed to radiotherapy promoted rapid tumor repopulation, and this effect was suppressed by Hh inhibition. Our results demonstrate that Gli1 that is upregulated at the tumor–stroma intersection in HNSCC is elevated by radiotherapy, where it contributes to stromal-mediated resistance, and that Hh inhibitors offer a rational strategy to reverse this process to sensitize HNSCC to radiotherapy. Cancer Res; 74(23); 7024–36. ©2014 AACR.
Molecular simulation of CO2 adsorption in micro- and mesoporous carbons with surface heterogeneity

Abstract To mitigate and stabilize atmospheric CO 2 concentrations, alternate energy sources with zero carbon emissions offer ultimate solutions. However, technologies based on efficient and economic generation of electricity from non-carbonized energy sources are still in development. Therefore, carbon capture combined with sequestration as a component of a greater portfolio of solutions to reduce CO 2 emissions may be carried out during our transition from fossil-based resources to renewables or non-carbonized resources. As one of the attractive options, CO 2 captured by carbon-based sorbents as well as CO 2 sequestration in unmineable coalbeds require a thorough understanding of the adsorption properties in micro- and mesoporous carbon materials. An obstacle is insufficient understanding of the molecular-level mechanisms associated with CO 2 adsorption on realistic carbon pore surfaces with chemical heterogeneities and at pressures and temperatures characteristic of the depths of coal in the subsurface. Current fundamental investigations of gas adsorption onto functionalized carbon surfaces involve the characterization of carbon-based samples by experimental methods, understanding of electronic properties of functionalized carbon surfaces by density functional theory, and the thermodynamic property predictions using a Monte Carlo method within the grand canonical ensemble. With the consideration of surface chemistry, CO 2 storage capacity estimations in organic matrix of coal and gas shale increase greater than 40% when CO 2 is adsorbed in the ultramicropores, and greater than 15% in 2-nm micropores.
Synthesis of D-erythro-dihydrosphingosine and D-xylo-phytosphingosine from a serine-derived 1,5-dioxaspiro[3.2]hexane template.

A serine-derived 1,5-dioxaspiro[3.2]hexane template is shown to be a useful precursor for both aminodiol and aminotriol sphingoid bases by its conversion to d-erythro-dihydrosphingosine and d-xylo-phytoshingosine.
Perceptions of flatulence from bean consumption among adults in 3 feeding studies

Background Many consumers avoid eating beans because they believe legume consumption will cause excessive intestinal gas or flatulence. An increasing body of research and the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans supports the benefits of a plant-based diet, and legumes specifically, in the reduction of chronic disease risks. The purpose of the current research was to investigate the perception of increased flatulence and gastrointestinal discomfort among participants who consumed a ½ cup of beans daily for 8 or 12 weeks.
Case study: designing an advanced visualization system for geological core drilling expeditions

We present the design and process of an interactive high-resolution visualization system for diverse and distributed real-world geological core drilling expeditions. The high domain knowledge barrier makes it difficult for a person who is outside this field to imagine the user experience, and the globally distributed core drilling community imposes more design constraints in space and time. In addition to activities proposed in prior literatures, we used the "immersive empathic design" approach of having a computer scientist trained as a junior core technician. Through in-situ observation and interview evaluations from on-going expeditions, we present the system and the lesson learned in the process. It makes the best use of precious co-located opportunities. It allows the developer to build up domain knowledge efficiently. It establishes a trust relationship between the developer and scientists. The system designed through this approach formed a sustainable foundation that was adapted in the following design iterations. This process allows the software developer to experience authentic user activities. The designed system is innovative and helps scientists solving real-world problems. This approach can be a useful example to HCI practitioners who work with potential users or communities that share similar properties.
Is Assigning Capacity Costs to Individual Products Necessary for Capacity Planning

We examine the value of assigning costs of capacity resources to products for capacity planning. It is often argued that a product's full cost, which includes such assignments, is a measure of its long-run manufacturing cost. Hence, full cost is viewed as an appropriate basis for deciding whether a product should be included in the firm's product portfolio, and how much capacity should be installed to manufacture the product. We use numerical examples to demonstrate that when capacity once installed cannot be increased in the short run (i.e., capacity resources impose "hard" constraints), the decision of how much capacity to install initially is a portfolio-level problem and does not generally decompose into product-level problems. Intuitively, unless product demand is constant, the product- mix problem differs across periods when capacity constraints are hard. Consequently, the opportunity cost of a capacity resource also varies across periods because it is determined at the portfolio level. Therefore, using full costs to measure individual product profitability and planning initial capacity levels on a product-by-product basis is sub- optimal.
ICCAD'S IMPACT IN IBM

Over the last twenty years, ICCAD has been a major source of innovative ideas and valuable technical interactions for IBM, as well as a showcase for the many IBM advances in design automation. The quality of papers and presentations has been unparalleled, as is exemplified by the selected papers in this book. As a company that depends on advanced design automation tools for its products, and as an innovator in the design automation arena [7], IBM congratulates ICCAD on its 20th Anniversary and applauds the authors, tutorial presenters, and program and executive committees that have made ICCAD the best technical conference in design automation.
Proteomic Analysis Identifies Ribosome Reduction as an Effective Proteotoxic Stress Response

Stress responses are adaptive cellular programs that identify and mitigate potentially dangerous threats. Misfolded proteins are a ubiquitous and clinically relevant stress. Trivalent metalloids, such as arsenic, have been proposed to cause protein misfolding. Using tandem mass tag-based mass spectrometry, we show that trivalent arsenic results in widespread reorganization of the cell from an anabolic to a catabolic state. Both major pathways of protein degradation, the proteasome and autophagy, show increased abundance of pathway components and increased functional output, and are required for survival. Remarkably, cells also showed a down-regulation of ribosomes at the protein level. That this represented an adaptive response and not an adverse toxic effect was indicated by enhanced survival of ribosome mutants after arsenic exposure. These results suggest that a major source of toxicity of trivalent arsenic derives from misfolding of newly synthesized proteins and identifies ribosome reduction as a rapid, effective, and reversible proteotoxic stress response.
Reassessing Journalistic Pedagogy: Howard University’s Broadcast Coverage during the 2014 Midterm Election

In the challenge of preparing broadcast journalism students for the realities of a high-pressured newsroom during an actual political news event, journalism programmes must embrace new pedagogies while underscoring the fundamentals of journalism. This commentary examines the challenges and practical and instructional opportunities for broadcast journalism students of Howard University’s Department of Media, Journalism and Film, while covering the 2014 US Midterm Election. The author explains how her individual experience as a veteran news industry professional-turned journalism academic, influenced and informed processes, practices and outcomes for student journalists who lacked experience and in some cases interest in the political process. The students witnessed first-hand the plethora of challenges facing modern-day newsrooms during a major news event, which served as a reminder of the uncertainties of the profession while emphasizing the value of preparedness. Findings suggest the compelling need to f...
Prevention of cataract development in severely galactosemic rats by the aldose reductase inhibitor, tolrestat.

AbstractWith a fixed time period of galactose feeding, the rate of appearance of lenticular opacities depended on the severity of galactosemia, while with a fixed amount of galactose fed, the rate was time dependent. The capacity of tolrestat, a structurally novel inhibitor of aldose reductase (AR), to control cataract development was assessed in rats fed 30-50% galactose with the diet for 7 to 277 days. In rats fed 30% galactose for 31 days, the controlling effect of tolrestat was dose dependent, and no cataracts were detected at a dose of 35 mg/kg/day. In rats given tolrestat with the diet for 14 days, then rendered severely galactosemic with a diet containing 50% galactose, and subjected to continued treatment with tolrestat at a dose of 43 mg/kg/day, no changes were detected by slit-lamp microscopy after 207 days. The preventive effect was also dose dependent. In view of the established similarity in the pathogenesis of galactosemic and diabetic cataracts, the results obtained with tolrestat support i...
Carbon Nanotube-based, Membrane-less and Mediator-free Enzymatic Biofuel Cells

A direct electron transfer single wall carbon nanotube (SWNT)- based biofuel cell on a gold-coated porous silicon (pSi) substrate shows a peak power density of 12 microwatts/cm2 in 4 mM glucose (corresponding to normal blood sugar concentration) with an average power of 1 microwatt over 48 hours of operation. An interesting feature of this biofuel cell is that it can be re-activated to operate with an average power output of 1 microwatt/cm2 after storage for 3 months at 4 C. Gold particles were electrolessly self-assembled on each pSi substrate from HAuCl4 solution in alcohol after similarly depositing an adhesion-promoting Cr layer. The hierarchy of pores on pSi enables nanoscale transport during fuel cell operation via capillary and wicking effects. Carboxylated SWNTs were deposited by an electrophoretic process, followed by electrochemically-induced covalent immobilization of anodic glucose oxidase and cathodic laccase enzymes on the nanotubes to form the biofuel cell structure.
ROLE OF LIGHT, TEMPERATURE, AND METHOD OF PROPAGATION IN CULTURAL VARIABILITY OF FUSARIUM OXYSPORUM F. SP. APII RACE 2

Development of mycelial cultures of wild-type Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. apii race 2 (FOA2) isolates was inhibited under incubation with 12- or 24-h photoperiods on chloramphenicol-amended potato dextrose agar (CPDA) plates. Development ofpionnotal cultures from FOA2 isolates was favored under these conditions. Darkness and diffuse sunlight favored development of mycelial cultures. Transfer of mycelial cultures from dark to light resulted in cultures with an inner mycelial zone and an outer pionnotal zone. Pionnotal cultures produced in light assumed a dual morphology (inner pionnotal zone and an outer mycelial zone) after transfer to the dark and subsequent growth in the dark. Single microconidial transfers from 1-2-, 6-, 12-, and 24-day-old pionnotal cultures to fresh CPDA plates and growth in darkness resulted in mycelial cultures. Incubation temperature did not affect overall cultural variability. Transfer of single microconidia to CPDA plates followed by incubation in darkness reduced cultural variability more than either single microconidial transfer with light incubation or mycelial plug transfer with dark incubation.
Endotoxin shock in the pregnant guinea pig. An evaluation of hyperbaric oxygen therapy.

Abstract Sixty-one pregnant guinea pigs were randomly divided into six study groups. These animals were subjected to various environmental conditions within a hyperbaric oxygen resuscitation chamber. About half of the animals were injected with coliform endotoxin. Hyperbaric oxygen apparently afforded no protection and the mortality was uniformly high in the endotoxin-injected groups of animals. There were no deaths in any of the control groups.
Importance and Timing of Prophylactic Antibiotics Inurology With A Special Reference to Growth and Kill Rates of E. Coli in Genitourinary Organs

We conducted an experimental study using rats to investigate the timing of prophylactic antibiotics in urological surgery and to evaluate the benefit from a single, prophylactic injection of an antibiotic. Another objective was to examine the growth and kill rates of Escherichia coli 06 in operated urinary tract organs. We were unable to demonstrate a short decisive period for the antibiotic treatment; it seems to vary with respect to the infecting organism and the infected organ. Administration of a single dose of antibiotic was sufficient to lower the rate of infection in the kidney and epididymis 24 hours after the operation and to eliminate bacteria completely from the prostate. The rate of growth and kill of E. coli 06 depended on the specific organs in which the infection took place.
Prevalence and Antimicrobial Resistance of Salmonella Isolated from Cattle Feces in United States Feedlots in 2011

The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and characteristics of Salmonella spp. isolated from feces of cattle in feedlots in the United States. Fecal samples were collected from up to three pens of cattle in each of 68 feedlots in 12 states. Samples included up to 25 individual fecal pats from the pen floors and up to five composite samples from the floors of the same pens. The prevalence of Salmonella-positive samples was 9.1% (460/5050) and 11.3% (114/1009) for individual and composite samples, respectively. The prevalences of Salmonella at the pen level were 35.6% (72/202) and 22.8% (46/202) for individual and composite samples, respectively. Dietary factors, including inclusion of cottonseed hulls, coccidiostats, and antimicrobial drugs, were associated with differences in prevalence of Salmonella isolation. Overall, 32 serotypes of Salmonella were identified, but six serotypes accounted for 69.1% (495/716) of the isolates. Nearly two-thirds (64.7%, 44/68) of feedlots had at least one positive sample. All isolates were evaluated for susceptibility to a panel of 15 antimicrobial drugs. Most isolates (74.4%, 533/716) were susceptible to all antimicrobial drugs in the panel. When resistance was detected, it was most commonly to tetracycline (21.7%, 155/716 of isolates) or sulfisoxazole (12.4%, 89/716 of isolates). Less than 10% of the isolates were resistant to any other antimicrobials in the panel. The results of this study indicate that the prevalence of Salmonella in individual fecal samples was less than 10%, but that Salmonella is widely distributed among feedlot cattle. Furthermore, when Salmonella is present in feedlot cattle, there is a low occurrence of antimicrobial resistance with the exception of tetracycline and sulfisoxazole. More research is indicated to understand the ecology of Salmonella and antimicrobial resistance, when present, in cattle-feeding operations.
Problems in Theodor Storm's Novellen

(1940). Problems in Theodor Storm's Novellen. The Germanic Review: Literature, Culture, Theory: Vol. 15, No. 1, pp. 32-45.
A Recommendation System Using OLAP Approach

Recommendation Systems (RS) can offer suggestions of items to users. Due to explosive growth of internet, e-commerce, and social networks, RS research has experienced great interest in recent years. Online Analytical Processing (OLAP) and data warehousing technologies have existed for a while and have been popular in many big businesses. In this paper we proposed a new RS system called RS-OLAP which applies the functionalities of OLAP to RS. In particular we aggregate and rollup hierarchical rating data such as users' locations, items' locations and category hierarchies, and incorporate traditional RS algorithms such as Collaborative Filtering (CF) at different levels. In addition, we proposed three other RS algorithms: Top-rated Items in User's Frequent Categories (TIUFC), Pair-wise Association Recommender System (PARS), and RS for spatial items. We also give a framework and prototype for RS-OLAP.
Efficacy and Safety of Sofosbuvir-Based Direct Acting Antivirals for Hepatitis C in Septuagenarians and Octogenarians

Background/aims Treatment of chronic hepatitis C (HCV) with newer direct acting antiviral (DAA) agents has been highly effective. Unfortunately, patients over 70 years old are underrepresented in studies. Given current recommendations to screen patients born between 1945 and 1965 for HCV, it is essential to determine the efficacy and safety of DAAs within the elderly population. This study aims to evaluate clinical outcomes of patients aged 70 years or older treated for HCV with DAAs at a single tertiary care center. Methods We identified 25 patients aged 70 years or older who were treated for HCV with a sofosbuvir-based regimen. Baseline demographics, prior HCV treatment history, HCV treatment regimen, adverse effects, and interruption or discontinuation of therapy were collected. The primary endpoint was sustained virologic response at 12 weeks after end of treatment (SVR12). Secondary outcomes were self-reported side effects, drug interactions, and changes in medical regimen of treated patients. Results All patients were genotype 1 (13 1a, 9 1b, 3 unspecified). Seventeen (68%) had cirrhosis including 1 Child's Pugh class B. Fifteen patients were treatment-naive and 10 previously failed treatment with interferon. Seventeen patients were on ledipasvir/sofosbuvir, 4 on simeprevir/sofosbuvir/ribavirin, and 4 on simeprevir/sofosbuvir. Of 25 patients included, 96% (24/25) patients achieved SVR12. Two patients had a greater than 2 g/dL drop in hemoglobin from baseline and both were on ribavirin. Ribavirin was discontinued in 1 patient. One patient required a change in proton pump inhibitor. No patients discontinued therapy due to side effects. Conclusions Patients aged 70 years or older with genotype 1 achieved high rates of sustained virologic response with treatment with newer sofosbuvir-based DAAs without any undue adverse events.
Abstract 027: Comparing Changes in Hospital Readmission Rates by Frequency and Total Financial Penalties Over the First Five Years

Objective: To compare changes in risk-standardized readmission rates (RSRRs) for acute myocardial infarction (AMI), congestive heart failure (CHF), and pneumonia (PN) between hospitals receiving mo...
Moving the Agenda on Noncommunicable Diseases: Policy Implications of Mobile Phone Surveys in Low and Middle-Income Countries

The growing burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), for example, cardiovascular diseases and chronic respiratory diseases, in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) presents special challenges for policy makers, due to resource constraints and lack of timely data for decision-making. Concurrently, the increasing ubiquity of mobile phones in LMICs presents possibilities for rapid collection of population-based data to inform the policy process. The objective of this paper is to highlight potential benefits of mobile phone surveys (MPS) for developing, implementing, and evaluating NCD prevention and control policies. To achieve this aim, we first provide a brief overview of major global commitments to NCD prevention and control, and subsequently explore how countries can translate these commitments into policy action at the national level. Using the policy cycle as our frame of reference, we highlight potential benefits of MPS which include (1) potential cost-effectiveness of using MPS to inform NCD policy actions compared with using traditional household surveys; (2) timeliness of assessments to feed into policy and planning cycles; (3) tracking progress of interventions, hence assessment of reach, coverage, and distribution; (4) better targeting of interventions, for example, to high-risk groups; (5) timely course correction for suboptimal or non-effective interventions; (6) assessing fairness in financial contribution and financial risk protection for those affected by NCDs in the spirit of universal health coverage (UHC); and (7) monitoring progress in reducing catastrophic medical expenditure due to chronic health conditions in general, and NCDs in particular. We conclude that MPS have potential to become a powerful data collection tool to inform policies that address public health challenges such as NCDs. Additional forthcoming assessments of MPS in LMICs will inform opportunities to maximize this technology.
The Validity and Clinical Uses of the Pepper Visual Skills for Reading Test.

Macular degeneration is the most widespread untreatable cause of visual impairment. Since it is age-related, it is expected to increase as the mean age of the population increases. Many individuals...
Excitations in the quantum liquid (4)He: A review.

Progress made in measuring and interpreting the elementary excitations of superfluid and normal liquid [Formula: see text] in the past 25 years is reviewed. The goal is to bring up to date the data, calculations and our understanding of the excitations since the books and reviews of the early 1990s. Only bulk liquid [Formula: see text] is considered. Reference to liquid [Formula: see text], mixtures, reduced dimensions (films and confined helium) is made where useful to enhance interpretation. The focus is on the excitations as measured by inelastic neutron scattering methods. The review covers the dynamical response of liquid [Formula: see text] from the collective excitations at low energy and long wavelength (i.e. phonon-roton modes) to the single particle excitations at high energy from which the atomic momentum distribution and Bose-Einstein condensate fraction are determined. A goal is to show the interplay of these excitations with other spectacular properties such as superfluidity and the test of fundamental calculations of quantum liquids that is possible. The role of Bose-Einstein condensation in determining the nature of the [Formula: see text] mode and particularly it's temperature dependence is emphasized. The similarity of normal liquid [Formula: see text] with other quantum and classical liquids is discussed.
Self-Forgiveness, Addiction, and Recovery

Self-forgiveness is thought to play a meaningful role in the relationship between addiction and recovery. Scientific theories have been developed regarding the general nature of the forgiveness–health association and the forgiveness–addiction association and are supported by accumulating empirical evidence. However, scientific modeling regarding the explicit role of self-forgiveness in the process of addiction and recovery is much less developed. Based on the integration of a stress-and-coping model of self-forgiveness and health and a general model of the forgiveness–addiction association, we describe the development of a model addressing the self-condemnation–self-forgiveness–addiction/recovery association, including resentment and psychache as particularly relevant manifestations of self-condemnation. To this end, we provide an overview of the psychology of self-forgiveness as it pertains to addiction and recovery, ending with a discussion of clinical applications. In sum, the power of self-forgiveness to facilitate recovery from addiction may stem from its role as a uniquely effective coping mechanism to address the stressful effects of self-condemnation.
Updating Secondary Climate Attributes for Transportation Infrastructure Management

AbstractWith research studies continuing to provide strong evidence that climatic conditions significantly impair the physical condition and longevity of civil engineering infrastructure, the impor...