cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An evaluation of spatial correlation functions in textural analysis of metamorphic rocks

Spatial correlation functions, which quantify spatial relationships among porphyroblasts over a range of length scales, can be used in combination with other techniques of quantitative textural analysis to constrain crystallization mechanisms in metamorphic rocks. The utility, reliability, and robustness of these functions, however, depend critically upon correct methods of calculation and application to geological samples. Application of the L ′-function, Pair Correlation Function, and Mark Correlation Function (Stoyan and Stoyan, 1994) to artificial arrangements of crystals yields results consistent with their predetermined ordering and clustering qualities. These results serve as a foundation for the interpretation of more complex simulated and natural crystal arrays. Analysis of artificial and simulated crystal arrays in which ordering signals are obscured in various ways (displacing crystals in an ordered array by increasing amounts, reducing the number of crystals, and increasing the sample’s aspect ratio) demonstrates that these scale-dependent functions are robust indicators of effects diagnostic of certain crystallization mechanisms, even in complex circumstances. The effects of clustering of nucleation sites, however, can strongly obscure any underlying signal that might reveal crystallization mechanisms. The L ′-function and the Pair Correlation Function are sensitive to short-range ordering of crystals, which may reflect suppression of nucleation in the vicinity of growing porphyroblasts. The Mark Correlation Function is sensitive to size-isolation correlations, which may reflect retardation of growth among crystals competing for nutrients. Interpretation of these functions, however, requires careful attention to proper calculation of Monte Carlo simulations, which are used to identify values of the functions that constitute a null-hypothesis region for comparison to samples with unknown ordering and clustering characteristics. To yield functional values commensurate with those calculated for a particular natural rock specimen, each simulation must match as closely as possible several critical features of the natural rock, including the set of crystal radii, limitations on the observability of crystals, and the shape and size of the bounding surface of the sample. Crystallization mechanisms in seven previously studied garnetiferous rocks from three localities (Carlson et al. 1995; Denison and Carlson 1997) have been reassessed using both scale-dependent correlation functions and single-valued spatial statistics, both evaluated by comparison to rigorously computed null-hypothesis regions. The results confirm previous inferences that the nucleation and growth rates of the garnet porphyroblasts in these specimens were governed by rates of diffusion through the intergranular medium.
Preanesthetic Assessment of the Patient with Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome

Summary HIV infection is widely prevalent and the infected patient may present with varied and protean signs and symptoms. Opportunistic infections of the airway, lungs, and central and peripheral nervous systems challenge the anesthesiologist to develop an effective management plan. The patient's condition must be optimized before induction of anesthesia and surgery by appropriate treatment of the infection and evaluation of possible barriers to ventilation and intubation. No anesthetic plan is ideal, and there may be only limited indications for regional anesthesia.
Elastic Wave Scattering from an Interface Crack in A Layered Half Space under Water

Wave propagation in layered elastic media has been the focus of much work both in seismology and for nondestructive evaluation (NDE) applications. In much of this work, the layers are assumed to be perfectly bonded to each other. Structures are not always ideal however, and can contain flaws such as interface cracks or debonding between layers. One concern in NDE is the location and characterization of these regions of debonding. With this purpose in mind, in this paper we investigate the elastic wave scattering by a crack at the interface between a layer and a half space.
Starting and Sustaining an Undergraduate Research Program: The SURIEM Experience at Michigan State University

AbstractMentoring undergraduate students in research is both rewarding and challenging. In this paper we present how we established a summer Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program in the mathematical sciences at Michigan State University. A goal of our REU is to include students who are at an early stage of their study of mathematics. We share our experiences in recruiting students, designing research projects, and mentoring our participants. We discuss the challenges we faced and the solutions we found while working with a diverse group of undergraduate students from across the nation.
oRGs and mitotic somal translocation — a role in development and disease

The evolution of the human brain has been characterized by an increase in the size of the neocortex. Underlying this expansion is a significant increase in the number of neurons produced by neural stem cells during early stages of cortical development. Here we highlight recent advances in our understating of these cell populations, consisting of ventricular radial glia and outer radial glia. We highlight how gene expression studies have identified molecular signatures for radial glial cell populations and outline what has been learned about the mechanisms underlying the characteristic mode of division observed in outer radial glia cells, mitotic somal translocation. Understanding the significance of this behavior may help us explain human cortical expansion and further elucidate neurodevelopmental diseases.
A Smart Mirror for Music Conducting Exercises

Music conductors are at a disadvantage compared to musicians playing an instrument, in that they don't receive immediate feedback during individual practice. Since the orchestra is not always readily available, beginner conductors practice in front of a mirror and are left to judge their own performance, which can be a pretty difficult and subjective task. In this paper we present a low-cost computer-based system that, in addition to the mirror image, provides users with real time feedback about musical conducting performance. The system uses a Microsoft Kinect to track upper body joint coordinates, and a Myo armband to provide more exact arm positioning data. Using these devices, we are able to detect common mistakes such as swaying, rocking, excessive hinge movement, mirroring, and incorrect palm position, as well as measure tempo and classify the articulation type as staccato or legato. The system has been well received by conducting students and their instructor, as it is very easy to set up and use, and it allows them to practice by themselves, without an orchestra.
Behavioral Analysis of the Role of Geniculocortical System in Form Vision

In looking at the title of this session, I am not certain as to how the work I am going to describe fits in. We have been studying the visual system of cats, and, thus it is not clear whether the experiments I will describe are relevant to higher functions of lower animals, or lower functions of higher animals. Basically, the question that we have been asking is a very simple one, and is derived from the recent advances in the anatomy and physiology of the mammalian visual system: which neural structures are important, or perhaps critical for the seeing of shapes. The first experiment I will describe has been done so many times it is difficult to recount all of the people who have performed it, but perhaps it is best to refer to LASHLEY’s original demonstrations. In a series of studies, LASHLEY (1, 2) studied the role of visual cortex which he believed to be important in vision. The simple paradigm he used was to estimate its role by testing visual behavior before and after removing visual cortex. As you are all no doubt aware, the animals that he tested were marvelously resistant to revealing deficits after rather extensive lesions. These findings forced LASHLEY to put forward a rather weak hypothesis to account for his results: namely, that vision is mediated by structures that are widely scattered through the brain, perhaps through all of it. While there is nothing basically wrong with this idea, it is not a very satisfying conclusion. Somehow, it seems more reasonable to assume that specific functions are mediated by unique brain parts, and recent discoveries in the physiology and anatomy of the brain tend to support such a view.
Rising Against the Third Shift: Reclaiming the Postpartum Body in “A Beautiful Body Project”

Discourses surrounding motherhood function increasingly to police the parameters of women’s bodies during pregnancy and postpartum. Rising against this trend is Jade Beall’s “A Beautiful Body Proje...
Examining the Status of Transition-Focused Content Within Educator Preparation Programs:

Almost two decades since the last study of how educator preparation programs (EPPs) offer transition-related content to preservice teachers, this study sought to understand if the educator preparat...
NONBACTERIAL THROMBOTIC ENDOCARDITIS DESPITE ANTICOAGULATION WITH NEW ORAL ANTICOAGULANTS

Nonbacterial thrombotic endocarditis (NBTE) is rare and the role of the new oral anticoagulants (NOAC) as treatment is uncertain. A 50-year old woman with a history of migraines complained of worsening headaches over the last 12 months accompanied by neurologic deficits and altered mental status.
Radiotracer localization of nonpalpable pulmonary nodules: A single-center experience.

Abstract Objective Multiple localization techniques to facilitate intraoperative identification of small or nonsolid pulmonary nodules have been developed. Radiotracer localization using technetium-labeled macroaggregated albumin has been our preferred localization method since 2009. We report our experience, including technical pitfalls and modifications, of our initial 77 patients who underwent this technique. Methods All patients undergoing preoperative radiotracer localization were identified from a prospective database. Medical records were retrospectively reviewed for patient demographic characteristics, nodule characteristics, procedure details, pathologic data, and outcomes. Results Seventy-seven patients underwent localization of 79 pulmonary nodules. Radiotracer localization had an overall success rate of 95%; however, 2 patients required a second localization procedure on the same day. Most failures occurred in nodules that were 5 days) in 5 patients. Conclusions Radiotracer localization is a simple and effective technique for intraoperative identification of small pulmonary nodules.
Technique: Laparoscopic TEP

Open inguinal hernia repair is one of the most common surgical procedures performed. Laparoscopic repair of inguinal hernia gives excellent results when performed by surgeons expert in the technique and is estimated to make up between 15 and 30% of inguinal hernia repairs in the USA. We believe, however, a good herniologist should have multiple options to offer his/her patients. Most hernia repair methods, both open and laparoscopic, have literature supporting a very low recurrence rate when using mesh. The majority of data does show that the laparoscopic repair leads to less acute pain and quicker recovery, but most importantly, when done correctly, the risk of chronic pain is lower for the laparoscopic repair. Most patients referred for repair are symptomatic, and we advocate fixing all symptomatic inguinal hernias if the patient can tolerate surgery. If the patient is asymptomatic, then we will discuss watchful waiting realizing that many will eventually become symptomatic.
Incorporation of Noncoded Amino Acids by In Vitro Protein Biosynthesis

The method of site-specific mutagenesis with noncoded amino acids using suppression of a nonsense codon by a semi-synthetic tRNA was first introduced in 1989. Initially used to probe the tolerance of the protein biosynthetic machinery for compounds other than the 20 primary amino acids, the method has since been applied to study a widely diverse range of biological problems. The ability to introduce side chains bearing subtle structural and electronic differences, fluorescent probes, isotope labels, photolabile protecting groups, chemical handles and photoactivated cross-linkers at unique sites has facilitated studies not currently accessible by other means. Improvements and alternatives to the early methodology are considered as well as some interesting recent applications.
Several remarks on mining frequent trajectories in graphs

We apply techniques that originate in the analysis of market basket data sets to the study of frequent trajectories in graphs. Trajectories are defined as simple paths through a directed graph, and we put forth some definitions and observations about the calculation of supports of paths in this context. A simple algorithm for calculating path supports is introduced and analyzed, but we explore an algorithm which takes advantage of traditional frequent item set mining techniques, as well as constraints placed on supports by the graph structure, for optimizing the calculation of relevant supports. To this end, the notion of the path tree is introduced, as well as an algorithm for producing such path trees.
Strain differences in the development of acute tolerance to ethanol.

C57B1/6 mouse brain serotonin levels were depleted by feeding animals a diet containing no tryptophan. When such mice were injected with ethanol, they were found to lose their righting reflex for significantly longer periods and to have a lower body temperature than control animals. Animals consuming the diet containing no tryptophan metabolized ethanol more slowly than controls. Although daily injections of kynurenine reinstated ethanol metabolism to normal, the duration of loss of righting reflex and the hypothermia induced by ethanol were unaffected by kynurenine pretreatment. Tryptophan (75 mg/kg) administered six hours prior to ethanol injection returned brain serotonin levels to normal in tryptophan-deprived mice. Mice injected with tryptophan were found to respond to ethanol as did the control animals. When brain ethanol levels were determined at the time that the animals lost their righting reflex and when animals regained their righting reflex, tryptophan-deprived mice were found to regain the righting reflex at the same brain ethanol levels as those at which such animals lost their righting reflex. Control animals regained the righting reflex at higher brain ethanol levels than those at which they lost the righting reflex. Tryptophan administration to tryptophan-deprived mice resulted in their regaining the righting reflex at higher ethanol levels than those at which they lost the reflex. Similar experiments were carried out on C3H/HeJ and DBA/J2 mice. The results indicate that C3H mice developed some acute tolerance while DBA mice failed to develop any acute tolerance. The possibility exists that the strain difference in the degree of sensitivity to ethanol observed in these mice may be due to differing abilities to develop acute tolerance.
Excess capacity: markets regulation, and values.

OBJECTIVE: To examine the conceptual bases for the conflicting views of excess capacity in healthcare markets and their application in the context of today's turbulent environment. STUDY SETTING: The policy and research literature of the past three decades. STUDY DESIGN: The theoretical perspectives of alternative economic schools of thought are used to support different policy positions with regard to excess capacity. Changes in these policy positions over time are linked to changes in the economic and political environment of the period. The social values implied by this history are articulated. DATA COLLECTION: Standard library search procedures are used to identify relevant literature. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: Alternative policy views of excess capacity in healthcare markets rely on differing theoretical foundations. Changes in the context in which policy decisions are made over time affect the dominant theoretical framework and, therefore, the dominant policy view of excess capacity. CONCLUSIONS: In the 1990s, multiple perspectives of optimal capacity still exist. However, our evolving history suggests a set of persistent values that should guide future policy in this area.
pBIN20: An Improved Binary Vector for shape Agrobacterium-mediated Transformation

We report the construction of a binary vector for Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation, pBIN20, which contains a superlinker region located between the left and right Ti border sequences. This vector, derived from pBI121, simplifies the cloning of plant expression cassettes and has been used in our laboratory to create lines of transgenic BY-2 tobacco cells. This new vector contains more than 20 unique restriction sites as well as the nptII selectable marker gene within the Ti-DNA borders.
Effects of Shariah-compliant business practices on long-term financial performance

Abstract We examine the long-term effects of Shariah-compliant business practices on the financial performance of the practicing firms. Shariah is the set of personal and societal behaviors derived from study of the Qur’an, the Islamic holy book. A firm is considered Shariah-compliant when it is part of a religiously approved industry sector and meets five quantitative screens. The first three screens measure each firm’s liquidity, the fourth examines each firm’s leverage, and the final screen, as part of the “purification process,” determines if the company’s reliance upon interest-based income is at an acceptable level. We use long-term event study methodology to examine the effects of compliance over five years. We develop and test two hypotheses to determine if Shariah-compliance enhances the long-term value of the firm. Using a large sample selected from 1990 to 2018, we find that Shariah-compliance positively affects long-term financial performance as evidenced by increased values in return on assets (ROA) and return on sales (ROS). However, the practice of Shariah-compliant investing offers mixed results for stock return performance. Our results show adherence to the five quantitative Shariah screening rules could be considered as a successful long-term managerial strategy, having positive implications even for firms not in Shariah-approved industry sectors.
Introduction: Democratic Rights: The Substance of Self-Government

When the Supreme Court in 2003 struck down a Texas law prohibiting homosexual sodomy, it cited the right to privacy based on the guarantee of "substantive due process" embodied by the Constitution. But did the court act undemocratically by overriding the rights of the majority of voters in Texas? Scholars often point to such cases as exposing a fundamental tension between the democratic principle of majority rule and the liberal concern to protect individual rights. Democratic Rights challenges this view by showing that, in fact, democracy demands many of these rights.Corey Brettschneider argues that ideal democracy is comprised of three core values – political autonomy, equality of interests, and reciprocity – with both procedural and substantive implications. These values entitle citizens not only to procedural rights of participation (e.g., electing representatives) but also to substantive rights that a "pure procedural" democracy might not protect. What are often seen as distinctly liberal substantive rights to privacy, property, and welfare can, then, be understood within what Brettschneider terms a "value theory of democracy." Drawing on the work of John Rawls and deliberative democrats such as Jurgen Habermas, he demonstrates that such rights are essential components of – rather than constraints on – an ideal democracy. Thus, while defenders of the democratic ideal rightly seek the power of all to participate, they should also demand the rights that are the substance of self-government.
Protracted perceptual learning of auditory pattern structure in spoken language

Abstract The chapter addresses the developmental time course of the perceptual learning underlying spoken language. Many researchers suggest that most of this learning has saturated around the end of the first year of life—during infancy. My own work with young children suggests a different perspective: protracted perceptual learning. I lay out the evidence for perceptual precocity and explain why I think the perceptual precocity story is wrong. Following this, I present my findings on young children's perceptual processing in speech and non-speech contexts (word learning, voice learning, melody learning), using visual fixations and pointing accuracy as response measures. Across all measures, children undershoot adult performance, particularly when perceptual attributes are challenging to tell apart. I then describe alternative, non-perceptual explanations for these findings, as well as ways to address said explanations. Last, I outline possible paths toward a unified picture of auditory perceptual learning across development.
Integrated pigweed (Amaranthus spp.) management in glufosinate-resistant soybean with a cover crop, narrow row widths, row-crop cultivation, and herbicide program

Successful pigweed management requires an integrated strategy to delay the development of resistance to any single control tactic. Field trials were implemented during 2017 and 2018 in three counties in Kansas on dryland (limited rainfall, nonirrigated), glufosinate-resistant soybean. The objective was to assess pigweed control with combinations of a winter wheat cover crop (CC), three soybean row widths (76, 38, and 19 cm), row-crop cultivation 2.5 weeks after planting (WAP), and an herbicide program to develop integrated pigweed management recommendations. All combinations of the four components were assessed by 16 treatments. All treatments with the herbicide program resulted in excellent (>97%) pigweed control and were analyzed separately from the other components. Treatments containing row-crop cultivation reduced pigweed density and biomass 3 and 8 WAP in all locations compared with the 76-cm row width plus no CC treatment. CC impacts were mixed. In Riley County, Palmer amaranth density and biomass were reduced; in Reno County, no additional Palmer amaranth control was observed; in Franklin County, the CC had greater waterhemp density and biomass compared with the treatments containing no CC. Narrow row widths achieved the most consistent results of all cultural components when data were pooled across locations: Decreasing row widths from 76 to 38 cm resulted in a 23% reduction in pigweed biomass 8 WAP and decreasing row width from 38 to 19 cm achieved a 15% reduction. Row-crop cultivation should be incorporated where possible as a mechanical option to manage pigweed, and narrow row widths should be used to suppress late-season pigweed growth when feasible. Inconsistent pigweed control from CC was achieved and should be given special consideration before implementation. The integral use of these components with an herbicide program as a system should be recommended to achieve the best pigweed control and reduce the risk of developing herbicide resistance.Nomenclature: glufosinate; pigweed, Amaranthus spp., Palmer amaranth, Amaranthus palmeri S. Watson; waterhemp, Amaranthus tuberculatus (Moq.) J. D. Sauer; soybean, Glycine max (L.) Merr.; winter wheat, Triticum aestivum L.
An Exploration of Myths, Barriers, and Strategies for Improving Diversity Among STS Members

Diversity within health care organizations has many proven benefits, yet women and other groups remain underrepresented in cardiothoracic surgery. We sought to explore responses from a Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) survey to identify myths and barriers for informing organizational strategies in the STS and cardiothoracic surgery. We performed a qualitative review of narrative survey responses within three domains surrounding diversity in cardiothoracic surgery: myths, barriers, and strategies for improvement. Common diversity myths included diversity as a pipeline problem (24%), diversity equated to exclusivity (21%), and diversity not supporting meritocracy (18%). The most frequent barrier code was perceived prejudice (22%). Suggested strategies toward improvement were culture change prioritizing diversity (22%) and training the leaders (14%). Notably, 15% of response codes reflected the belief that disparities do not exist; thus, the issue should not be prioritized by the organization. The results do not necessarily reflect the beliefs of most of the STS membership; nonetheless, they provide important insight critical to guide any efforts toward eliminating disparities within cardiothoracic surgery and improving the care of our patients.
Potential of robotic systems in phonosurgery.

There has been rapid growth in the utilization of robotic surgery in the head and neck. Its utilization in the phonosurgical space has lagged owing to difficulty with access and exposure to the laryngeal site, small working space due to the size of the larynx and the need to work around an endotracheal tube. The goal of this work is to explore recent developments in robotic microlaryngeal surgery. At this time robotic instrumentation is available; however, the range of instruments is not as extensive to match the current microlaryngeal instrumentation that exists for traditional endoscopic surgery. Studies have demonstrated the ability to perform phonosurgery safely with currently available robotic systems but exposure is less than ideal. Work is been undertaken to develop specialized transoral robotic retractors which will improve visualization and allow the robotic instrument to reach the glottis, which has traditionally been the most difficult to area to access. Additional studies will be needed to assess the application of these systems to more patient populations, and prospective research will be required to compare outcomes of traditional phonosurgery to robotic phonosurgery.
Registry-based Research in Cerebral Palsy: The Cerebral Palsy Research Network

Registries are a powerful tool for clinical research. Clinical registries for cerebral palsy can aid in comparative effectiveness research, especially using the practice-based evidence model. The Cerebral Palsy Research Network (CPRN) was initiated in 2014 as a patient-centered, multidisciplinary registry. The leadership group initiated a 4-stage participatory action research process: listen, reflect, plan/analyze, and take action. CPRN also joined with CP NOW, an advocacy group, to create a research agenda for cerebral palsy. With more than 20 centers and growing, CPRN hopes to generate evidence for developing best practices and measure their implementation and impact for individuals with cerebral palsy throughout North America.
Short- and intermediate-term results of balloon aortic valvuloplasty and surgical aortic valvotomy in neonates

Background Balloon aortic valvuloplasty and open surgical valvotomy are procedures to treat neonatal aortic stenosis, and there is controversy as to which method has superior outcomes. Methods We reviewed the records of patients at our institution since 2000 who had a balloon aortic valvuloplasty or surgical valvotomy via an open commissurotomy prior to 2 months of age. Results Forty patients had balloon aortic valvuloplasty and 15 patients had surgical valvotomy via an open commissurotomy. There was no difference in post-procedure mean gradient by transthoracic echocardiogram, which were 25.8 mmHg for balloon aortic valvuloplasty and 26.2 mmHg for surgical valvotomy, p = 0.87. Post-procedure, 15% of balloon aortic valvuloplasty patients had moderate aortic insufficiency and 2.5% of patients had severe aortic insufficiency, while no surgical valvotomy patients had moderate or severe aortic insufficiency. The average number of post-procedure hospital days was 14.2 for balloon aortic valvuloplasty and 19.8 for surgical valvotomy (p = 0.52). Freedom from re-intervention was 69% for balloon aortic valvuloplasty and 67% for surgical valvotomy at 1 year, and 43% for balloon aortic valvuloplasty and 67% for surgical valvotomy at 5 years (p = 0.60). Conclusions Balloon aortic valvuloplasty and surgical valvotomy provide similar short-term reduction in valve gradient. Balloon aortic valvuloplasty has a slightly shorter but not statistically significant hospital stay. Freedom from re-intervention is similar at 1 year. At 5 years, it is slightly higher in surgical valvotomy, though not statistically different. Balloon aortic valvuloplasty had a higher incidence of significant aortic insufficiency. Long-term comparisons cannot be made given the lack of long-term follow-up with surgical valvotomy.
Process Mining and Ethnography Study of Medication Reconciliation Tasks

We studied the medication reconciliation (MedRec) task through analysis of computer logs and ethnographic data. Time spent by healthcare providers performing MedRec was compared between two different EHR systems used at four different regional perioperative settings. Only one of the EHRs used at two settings generated computer logs that supported automatic discovery of the MedRec task. At those two settings, 53 providers generated 383 MedRec instances. Findings from the computer logs were validated with ethnographic data, leading to the identification and removal of 47 outliers. Without outliers, one of the settings had slightly smaller mean (SD) time in seconds 67.3 (40.2) compared with the other, 92.1 (25). The difference in time metrics was statistically significant (p<.001). Reusability of an existing task-based analytic method allowed for rapid study of EHR-based workflow and task.
Intra- and inter-conduction band optical absorption processes in β-Ga2O3

β-Ga2O3 is an ultra-wide bandgap semiconductor and is thus expected to be optically transparent to light of sub-bandgap wavelengths well into the ultraviolet. Contrary to this expectation, it is found here that free electrons in n-doped β-Ga2O3 absorb light from the IR to the UV wavelength range via intra- and inter-conduction band optical transitions. Intra-conduction band absorption occurs via an indirect optical phonon mediated process with 1 / ω 3 dependence in the visible to near-IR wavelength range. This frequency dependence markedly differs from the 1 / ω 2 dependence predicted by the Drude model of free-carrier absorption. The inter-conduction band absorption between the lowest conduction band and a higher conduction band occurs via a direct optical process at λ ∼ 349 nm (3.55 eV). Steady state and ultrafast optical spectroscopy measurements unambiguously identify both these absorption processes and enable quantitative measurements of the inter-conduction band energy and the frequency dependence of absorption. Whereas the intra-conduction band absorption does not depend on light polarization, inter-conduction band absorption is found to be strongly polarization dependent. The experimental observations, in excellent agreement with recent theoretical predictions for β-Ga2O3, provide important limits of sub-bandgap transparency for optoelectronics in the deep-UV to visible wavelength range and are also of importance for high electric field transport effects in this emerging semiconductor.
Resolution-Exact Algorithms for Link Robots

Motion planning is a major topic in robotics . Divergent paths have been taken by practical roboticists and theoretical motion planners. Our goal is to produce algorithms that are practical and have strong theoretical guarantees. Recently, we have proposed a subdivision approach based on soft predicates Wang, C., Chiang, Y.-J., Yap, C.: On soft predicates in subdivision motion planning. In: 29th ACM Symposium on Computational Geometry (SoCG’13), pp. 349–358 (2013). To appear CGTA, Special Issue for SoCG’13 [20], but with a new notion of correctness called resolution-exactness. Unlike mos ques for planar link robots . The technical contributions of this paper are the design of soft predicates for link robots, a novel “T/R splitting method” for subdivision, and feature-based search strategies. The T/R idea is to give primacy to the translational (T) components, and perform splitting of rotational components (R) only at the leaves of a subdivision tree. We implemented our algorithm for a 2-link robot with 4 degrees of freedom (DOFs). Our implementation achieves real-time performance on a variety of nontrivial scenarios. For comparison, our method outperforms sampling-based methods significantly. We extend our 2-link planner to thick link robots with little impact on performance. Note that there are no known exact algorithms for thick link robots.
Faculty caring behaviors in online nursing education: an integrative review

As online programs for nursing education continue to grow, nursing faculty must develop strategies for engaging with and supporting students in this form of distance learning. The concept of caring...
Insights from Recent Fires into Juniper Savanna Dynamics at Wupatki National Monument, Arizona, USA

We tested the hypothesis that recurrent fires may limit juniper expansion into southwestern semiarid grasslands and savannas.Seven large fires at Wupatki National Monument, Arizona, burned 38% of the grasslands and dynamic savannas between 1995 and 2017.Mortality of one-seed junipers (Juniperus monosperma) was >50% among smaller trees ( 2 m tall), and 0% in trees >4 m tall.Herbaceous vegetation recovered within 2 to 3 years postfire.This suggests that fires may have limited juniper expansion historically and that fire may be an option for controlling juniper expansion and restoring grassland/savanna ecosystems today.
Racial Triangulation, Interest-Convergence, and the Double-Consciousness of Asian Americans

This Essay is part of the 26th Annual Georgia State University Law Review Symposium, "Social Equality and Racial Justice: What's Next?" It integrates Professor Claire Jean Kim’s racial triangulation framework, Professor Derrick Bell’s interest-convergence theory, and W.E.B. Du Bois’s notion of double-consciousness, all to examine the racial positioning of Asian Americans and the dilemmas we face as a result. To do so, it considers the history of Asian immigration to the U.S., the model minority and perpetual foreigner stereotypes, Asian Americans’ positioning in the affirmative action debate, COVID-19 related hate and bias incidents, and Andrew Yang’s 2020 Democratic presidential candidacy. The Essay examines how racial stereotypes of Asian Americans have emerged through historical cycles of valorization and ostracism, as analyzed through the racial triangulation framework. It analyzes how the political interests of the U.S. government converged with those of educated professionals in Asian countries, leading to changes in immigration policy and the emergence of the model minority stereotype. The Essay considers various ways that Asian Americans have been simultaneously valorized as model minorities and ostracized as perpetual foreigners. It highlights the affirmative action debate, where Asian Americans have been cast as high-achieving victims of race-conscious university admissions policies and pitted against other groups of people of color, culminating with the current Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard lawsuit. Finally, the Essay focuses on Andrew Yang’s presidential bid—particularly how his navigation of racial stereotypes reflected a double-consciousness that parallels the dilemmas faced by many Black Americans. The Essay concludes by arguing that to build coalitions and work towards racial justice, Asian Americans, Black Americans, and other people of color need to recognize their own double-consciousness and also see how it relates to the double-consciousness experienced by others.
Perancangan Ulang Tata Letak Fasilitas Produksi Bus dengan Algoritma Craft untuk Menurunkan Ongkos Material Handling

PT. Adiputro Wirasejati Malang adalah perusahaan yang bergerak dibidang karoseri bus dan minibus. Perusahaan ini mampu menyuplai bus ke seluruh Indonesia hingga ke mancanegara. Dengan luas perusahaan yang mencapai 8 Ha dan frekuensi pemindahan material antar departemen dan gudang yang mencapai 58.283 kali per harinya serta lokasi gudang dan departemen yang berjauhan, maka tata letak fasilitas produksi pada perusahaan tersebut belum optimal. Hal ini dikarenakan, dengan total jarak perpindahan yang mencapai 3.903.800 m sehingga memakan Ongkos Material Handling (OMH) sebesar Rp. 175.302.182. Oleh karena itu, penelitian ini dilakukan untuk merancang kembali tata letak fasilitas produksi untuk menurunkan OMH yang ada dengan menggunakan algoritma CRAFT ( Computerized Relative Allocation of Facilities Technique ). Dengan menggunakan dua pengukuran jarak, yakni Rectilinear dan Euclidean maka didapatkan hasil gudang kain dan cat bertukar posisi dengan ABS & Integral , terjadi pertukaran dari 3 area yakni fiber , gudang pipa & kaca dan mekanik. Lalu selanjutnya terjadi pertukaran posisi antara gudang WIP dan Dies Shop . Total penurunan OMH untuk jarak rectilinear adalah sebesar Rp. 27.464.715,2 atau sebesar 15,6 % dan untuk jarak euclidean adalah sebesar Rp. 13.350.835 atau sebesar 7,54%.
Management of Pre-existing Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt in Posterior Vault Distraction for Lambdoid Craniosynostosis: A Case Report and Technical Note.

Posterior vault distraction osteogenesis (DO) is an emerging treatment option for craniosynostosis. Operative nuances detailing surgical management are being described with increasing use and experience. In this article, we discuss the surgical management of an 8-month-old male with a ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) diagnosed with bilateral lambdoid craniosynostosis and Chiari I malformation. The patient underwent successful bilateral posterior fossa DO without surgical re-implantation of the shunt. Pre- and post-operative imaging confirmed no migration of the VPS. Intracranial volume increased by 20.1% and posterior fossa volume increased by 39.9%. Our experience illustrates that posterior vault DO can be done safely in the setting of a parieto-occipital VPS, in a single operative setting, without the need of additional procedures.
Modeling, design, and demonstration of 2.5D glass interposers for 16-channel 28 Gbps signaling applications

This paper describes the modeling, design, and demonstration of high-speed differential transmission lines on a 130µm thin glass interposer with two re-distribution layers (RDL), line lengths of 1–50mm, and turn radii of 0.15–8mm for 16-channel signal transmission at 28 Gbps per channel. Next generation photonic systems such as 400 Gigabit Ethernet (400 GbE) require low power and low loss channels between photodetectors and trans-impedance amplifiers (TIA) or between laser arrays and driver ICs. Glass, with low dielectric constant and loss tangent, has higher electrical performance and channel power efficiency compared to silicon interposers. Furthermore, low surface roughness and high-dimensional stability of glass enable finer lithographic dimensions and higher interconnection density during large panel processing compared to organic interposers. Interconnection of optical and electrical ICs on 2.5D glass interposers provides the best combination of electrical and optical signal performance. For 400 GbE modules, a 16-channel bus at 28 Gbps per channel is required for communication to the backplane. Electrical modeling and simulation was performed to arrive at an appropriate design for the 16×28 Gbps I/O interface on a two-metal layer glass interposer. An ultra-thin 130µm glass interposer was fabricated using low-cost, double-side panel processing providing for a lower cost, higher performance solution compared to silicon interposers.
La proliferación de los grupos paramilitares en el sur de México: ¿estrategia de Estado o batalla entre élites políticas locales?

This study traces the origins of Mexican paramilitary groups and argues that, contrary to what most of the literature on the subject implies, they do not represent a state strategy to thwart leftist groups seeking social change. Rather, they represent battles between groups of national and local-level elites with different visions of democracy and of what constitutes good governance. The polarization inherent in this type of conflict leads local actors to have to side with one faction of elites or the other. The presence of radical leftist groups in recently colonized indigenous areas with scant state presence gives rise to a process of radicalization among local elites. There are multiple factors that explain the emergence of paramilitary groups. Aside from the post Cold War international context, there were national factors like a shift in its focus away from security matters between 1989 and 1993, and presidential policies between 1968 and 1993, that planted the seeds of leftist radicalism in a context of id modernization
Abstract B09: Phosphorylation of BRAF by AMPK impairs BRAF-KSR1 association and cell proliferation

BRAF is an oncogenic protein kinase that drives cell growth and proliferation through the MEK-ERK signaling pathway. BRAF inhibitors have demonstrated antitumor efficacy in melanoma therapy but have also been found to be associated with the development of cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas (cSCCs) in certain patients. Here, we report that BRAF is phosphorylated at Ser729 by AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a critical energy sensor. This phosphorylation promotes the association of BRAF with 14-3-3 proteins and disrupts its interaction with the KSR1 scaffolding protein, leading to attenuation of the MEK-ERK signaling. We also show that phosphorylation of BRAF by AMPK impairs keratinocyte cell proliferation and cell-cycle progression. Furthermore, AMPK activation attenuates BRAF inhibitor-induced ERK hyperactivation in keratinocytes and epidermal hyperplasia in mouse skin. Our findings reveal a mechanism for regulating BRAF signaling in response to energy stress and suggest a strategy for preventing the development of cSCCs associated with BRAF-targeted therapy. Citation Format: Che-Hung Shen, Ping Yuan, Rolando Perez-Lorenzo, Yaqing Zhang, Sze Xian Lee, Yang Ou, Li Cai, John M. Asara, Lewis C. Cantley, Bin Zheng. Phosphorylation of BRAF by AMPK impairs BRAF-KSR1 association and cell proliferation. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Advances in Melanoma: From Biology to Therapy; Sep 20-23, 2014; Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2015;75(14 Suppl):Abstract nr B09.
Passivation techniques for InAs/GaSb strained layer superlattice detectors

InAs/(In,Ga)Sb Strained Layer Superlattices (SLSs) have made significant progress since they were first proposed as an infrared (IR) sensing material more than three decades ago. The basic material properties of SLS provide a prospective benefit in the realization of IR imagers with suppressed interband tunneling and Auger recombination processes, as well as high quantum efficiency and responsivity. With scaling of single pixel dimensions, the performance of focal plane arrays is strongly dependent on surface effects due to the large pixels’ surface/volume ratio. This article discusses the cause of surface leakage currents and various approaches of their reduction including dielectric passivation, passivation with organic materials (polyimide or various photoresists), passivation by overgrowth of wider bandgap material, and chalcogenide passivation. Performance of SLS detectors passivated by different techniques and operating in various regions of infrared spectrum has been compared.
Nerve fiber stimulation threshold for multiphase stimuli

The authors determined the strength-duration curves for stimulus pulse waveforms of one, two, or three rectangular phases of alternating polarity. Stimuli represented the induced transmembrane current density for a voltage-clamped unmyelinated axon. For any pulse length, the one-phase pulse always required the least current density to cause an action potential, while the two-phase pulse always required the most. For short pulse lengths ( /spl tausub mem/, time constant of the resting membrane), the three-phase pulse curve approached that of the two-phase pulse. >
Petascale system management experiences

Petascale HPC systems are among the largest systems in the world. Intrepid, one such system, is a 40,000 node, 556 teraflop Blue Gene/P system that has been deployed at Argonne National Laboratory. In this paper, we provide some background about the system and our administration experiences. In particular, due to the scale of the system, we have faced a variety of issues, some surprising to us, that are not common in the commodity world. We discuss our expectations, these issues, and approaches we have used to address them.
The role of intraluminal junction potentials in the generation of the gastric potential difference in man.

Using flowing isotonic NaCl or flowing molar KCl electrodes, the magnitude of liquid junction potentials between the electrode tip and gastric juice was measured directly, and calculated from electrolyte concentrations in gastric juice according to standard formulas. Gastric transepithelial potential difference was obtained by subtracting the junction potential from the measured gastric potential difference. junction potentials by direct experiment correlated closely with calculated values. The magnitude of the junction potential was shown to depend on the level of gastric acidity as well as on the nature of the flowing intraluminal electrode. However, transepithelial potential difference was always the same with the two electrode solutions. It is impossible to measure junction potentials with an intraluminal KCl agar electrode, but they must exist because these electrodes did not accurately measure transepithelial potential difference when gastric acidity was high. Pentagastrin caused a transient decline in transepithelial potential difference; this was not observed in patients with pernicious anemia. We conclude that accurate measurement of transepithelial potential difference must include correction for liquid junction potentials, which are sizable when gastric acidity is high. This can best be done with a flowing intraluminal electrode.
The Genoese in Seville and the Opening of the New World

The turning point in the history of the Genoese merchants in Spain was the discovery of America and the subsequent opening of trading relations with the new continent. From then on, their ascent to economic predominance in Spain paralleled that nation's emergence as the dominant power of the sixteenth-century world. Fortune gave Spain two empires simultaneously, one in the Old World, the other in the New. Spain's unpreparedness for imperial responsibilities, particularly in the economic sphere, was the springboard for Genoese advancement. Strengthening and enlarging their colony in Seville —after 1503 the “door and port of the Indies” —the Genoese prepared to move across the Atlantic in the wake of Columbus.
Sorption of Organic Contaminants by Biopolymer-Derived Chars

Sorption of phenanthrene and naphthalene by chitin and cellulose, as well as these biopolymer-derived chars, was examined. Carbon contents were much higher in the chars than their respective biopolymers, and nitrogen was dramatically accumulated in the chitin-derived chars. After charring, sorption of these two compounds was greatly increased, which was attributed to the newly created surface area, porosity, and aromatic components. The aromatic carbon content of the biopolymer chars increased with an increase in the charring temperature. Sorption of phenanthrene and naphthalene to chitin and cellulose was dominated by partitioning. However, after charring, sorption of these two compounds became much more of an adsorption process, because of the newly created surfaces and micropores. The maximum mass sorption capacity of phenanthrene and naphthalene by the original biopolymers and their chars was positively correlated with their surface areas, suggesting that active sorption sites were largely on the surf...