cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
XeCl laser pumped iodine laser using t-C4F9I

An iodine photodissociation laser using t-C4F9I as the active material was pumped by a XeCl laser. An iodine laser output energy of 3 mJ with pulse duration of 25 ns was obtained when the pumping pulse energy was 80 mJ, the iodine pressure was 70 torr, and the reflectance of the output mirror was 85 percent. The high pumping efficiency and low threshold pump power achieved in this experiment are attributable to the high absorption cross section at the pump laser wavelength (308 nm) of the iodide used.
Effect of Indomethacin on the Glomerular Filtration Rate After a Protein Meal in Humans

The renal response to a protein meal has been characterized by increases in glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and renal plasma flow and decrease in renal vascular resistance. Several hormonal mediators of this response have been proposed, including renal prostaglandins (PGs). We studied ten normal subjects before and after ingestion of indomethacin. All subjects had three 30-minute baseline creatinine and iothalamate clearances measured before and three one-hour clearances measured after an 80-g protein meal. The night before the second test, the subjects took 25 mg indomethacin and 150 mg one hour before the test meal. Urine PG excretion decreased significantly during the second test, from 0.60 ± 0.23 to 0.30 ± 0.14 ng/min ( P 2 (average increase of 12 mL/min/1.73 m 2 ) during the second hour after the test meal. After ingestion of indomethacin, the GFR remained unchanged from a baseline of 101 ± 9 to 101 ± 7 mL/min/1.73 m 2 (average change of -1 mL/min/1.73 m 2 ). Because the time of peak increase after the meal varied from subject to subject, the maximal increase in GFR after the meal was calculated and found to be significantly less during the second test, 13 ± 3 v 22 ± 4 mL/min/1.73 m 2 ( P
One- and two-dimensional models of fluid flow and stable isotope exchange at an outcrop in the Adamello contact aureole, Southern Alps, Italy

Localized depletion of 180 and l3C in a thin subhorizontal marble layer in the Adamello contact aureole, Southern Alps, Italy, resulted from fluid infiltration focused along a crosscutting dike. Values of 0180 and ol3C in calcite from the 1 m long profile decrease systematically from sedimentary values of 0180 = 220/00 (SMOW) and Ol3C= 00/00 (PDB) to 0180 = 12.50/00 and ol3C "" -70/00near the dike. The presence of clinozoisite and garnet in the 5-15 cm thick marble layers near the granodiorite dike indicates H20-rich fluid conditions (XC02"" 0.01). The 0 and C isotope profiles were compared with one- and two-dimensional models of advective-dispersive isotope transport. Individually the isotope profiles fit one-dimensional transport models well. However one-dimensional models, using equilibrium fluidrock exchange or a kinetic formulation, do not explain the relative locations or shapes of the two isotope-exchange profiles given the petrologic constraint of XC02 "" 0.01 for the infiltrating fluid. Excellent agreement with the 0180 and ol3C data is obtained using a twodimensional model that specifies (1) a high-permeability zone in marble near the dike that focuses fluid flow parallel to the dike and (2) a lower permeability zone in marble away from the dike where isotope exchange is dominated by molecular diffusion. The combined constraints imposed by phase equilibria and two isotope tracers allow two-dimensional fluid flow to be inferred from one-dimensional data. The results emphasize that isotope distributions resulting from multidimensional flow may fortuitously fit one-dimensional transport models if isotope tracers are considered independently. The use of multiple tracers coupled to fluid-composition constraints is therefore essential to discriminate between various transport models.
A proteogenomic survey of the Medicago truncatula genome

Peptide sequencing by computational assignment of tandem mass spectra to a database of putative protein sequences provides an independent approach to confirming or refuting protein predictions based on large-scale DNA and RNA sequencing efforts. This use of mass spectrometrically-derived sequence data for testing and refining predicted gene models has been termed proteogenomics. We report herein the application of proteogenomic methodology to a database of 10.9 million tandem mass spectra collected over a period of two years from proteolytically generated peptides isolated from the model legume Medicago truncatula. These spectra were searched against a database of predicted M. truncatula protein sequences generated from public databases, in silico gene model predictions, and a whole-genome six-frame translation. This search identified 78,647 distinct peptide sequences, and a comparison with the publicly available proteome from the recently published M. truncatula genome supported translation of 9,843 existing gene models and identified 1,568 novel peptides suggesting corrections or additions to the current annotations. Each supporting and novel peptide was independently validated using mRNA-derived deep sequencing coverage and an overall correlation of 93% between the two data types was observed. We have additionally highlighted examples of several aspects of structural annotation for which tandem MS provides unique evidence not easily obtainable through typical DNA or RNA sequencing. Proteogenomic analysis is a valuable and unique source of information for the structural annotation of genomes and should be included in such efforts to ensure that the genome models used by biologists mirror as accurately as possible what is present in the cell.
Generalized sidelobe canceller for magnetoencephalography arrays

In the last decade, large arrays of sensors for magnetoencephalography (MEG) (and electroencephalography (EEG)) have become more commonplace, allowing new opportunities for the application of beamforming techniques to the joint problems of signal estimation and noise reduction. We introduce a new approach to noise cancellation, the generalized sidelobe canceller (GSC), itself an alternative to the linearly constrained minimum variance (LCMV) algorithm. The GSC framework naturally fits within the other noise reduction techniques that employ real or virtual reference arrays. Using expository human subject data with strong environmental and biological artifacts, we demonstrate a straightforward sequence of steps for practical noise filtering, applicable to any large array sensor design.
Altered amygdala and hippocampus function in adolescents with hypercortisolemia: a functional magnetic resonance imaging study of Cushing syndrome.

Chronic elevations of endogenous cortisol levels have been shown to alter medial temporal cortical structures and to be accompanied by declarative memory impairments and depressive symptoms in human adults. These effects of elevated endogenous levels of cortisol have not been directly studied in adolescents. Because adolescents with Cushing syndrome show endogenous elevations in cortisol, they represent a unique natural model to study the effects of prolonged hypercortisolemia on brain function, and memory and affective processes during this developmental stage. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), we compared 12 adolescents with Cushing syndrome with 22 healthy control adolescents on amygdala and anterior hippocampus activation during an emotional faces encoding task. None of these adolescents manifested depressive symptoms. Encoding success was assessed using a memory recognition test performed after the scan. The fMRI analyses followed an event-related design and were conducted using the SPM99 platform. Compared to healthy adolescents, patients with Cushing syndrome showed greater left amygdala and right anterior hippocampus activation during successful face encoding. Memory performance for faces recognition did not differ between groups. This first study of cerebral function in adolescents with chronic endogeneous hypercortisolemia due to Cushing syndrome demonstrates the presence of functional alterations in amygdala and hippocampus, which are not associated with affective or memory impairments. Such findings need to be followed by work examining the role of age and related brain maturational stage on these effects, as well as the identification of possible protective factors conferring resilience to affective and cognitive consequences in this disease and/or during this stage of cerebral development.
Necessary and sufficient conditions for the robustness of time-varying systems with applications to sampled-data systems

Necessary and sufficient conditions for robustness of time-varying systems with structured norm-bounded uncertainty are provided. The L/sup infinity / signal norm is used and the conditions are given in terms of the spectral radii of certain matrices obtained from the kernel representation of the time-varying system at hand. The derived conditions are then applied to continuous time linear time-invariant systems and for sampled-data systems. >
Implicit theories of peer relationships.

This research investigated the role of children's implicit theories of peer relationships in their psychological, emotional, and behavioral adjustment. Participants included 206 children (110 girls; 96 boys; M age = 10.13 years, SD = 1.16) who reported on their implicit theories of peer relationships, social goal orientation, need for approval, depressive and aggressive symptoms, and exposure to peer victimization. Parents also provided reports on aggressive symptoms. Results confirmed that holding an entity theory of peer relationships was associated with a greater tendency to endorse performance-oriented social goals and to evaluate oneself negatively in the face of peer disapproval. Moreover, entity theorists were more likely than incremental theorists to demonstrate depressive and aggressive symptoms when victimized. These findings contribute to social2013cognitive theories of motivation and personality, and have practical implications for children exposed to peer victimization and associated difficulties.
Mineralogy and geology of the Maungaparerua halloysite deposit in New Zealand

Abstrac~The Maungaparerua halloysite deposit is located on the North Island of New Zealand some 210 km north of Auckland, The halloysite deposit was formed by hydrothermal alteration of rhyolite flow rocks. Superimposed on the hydrothermally altered halloysite is deep intensive surficial weathering resulting from the humid climate on the extreme tip Of the North Island. The deposit has been drilled and the cores have been analyzed mineralogically and chemically. Drilling has shown that the deposit is circular or ovate and covers about 350 acres. The altered rocks contain about 50% quartz and fine amorphous silica and 50~ of a mix of halloysite, kaolinite, and allophane with a small amount of plagioclase feldspar in the coarse fraction. The upper 8-30 m, with an average of 15 m, of the halloysite alteration deposit consists of relatively soft clay. Below this soft clay, which is the result of intense surficial weathering, the clay becomes hard and dense. The halloysite and kaolin from this deposit are mined and beneficiated using wet process techniques of dispersion, centrifugation, leaching, dewatering, and drying. The products are used as filler in paper, paint, and plastics and as a ceramic raw material for producing whiteware and fine china. This deposit is unique in that it contains a very high proportion of halloysite in the clay fraction. The detailed geology, mineralogy, geochemistry, and the physical properties of the clay will be discussed.
Draft Genome Sequence of Pseudoalteromonas sp. Strain ND6B, an Oil-Degrading Isolate from Eastern Mediterranean Sea Water Collected at a Depth of 1,210 Meters

ABSTRACT Here, we report the draft genome of Pseudoalteromonas sp. strain ND6B, which is able to grow with crude oil as a carbon source. Strain ND6B was isolated from eastern Mediterranean Sea deep water at a depth of 1,210 m. The genome of strain ND6B provides insight into the oil-degrading ability of the Pseudoalteromonas species.
Gamma-ray cluster identification in a spherical shell of highly segmented germanium detectors

Research and development is proceeding on a new /spl gamma/-ray detector array for nuclear physics: the Gamma-Ray Energy Tracking Array (GRETA). This array will consist of a spherical shell of highly segmented Ge detectors. By obtaining the energy and position of each interaction point, high efficiency and peak-to-total ratios can be obtained as compared with existing arrays. Here we discuss the computer algorithms that are needed to process the raw data and maximize the performance of the array. The results of these algorithms on Monte Carlo simulated data are presented.
Tuberculosis and HIV Infection: Partners in Human Tragedy

Tuberculosis (TB) is one of medicines oldest plagues and HIV infection is its newest. Together TB and HIV infection have a synergy that clearly threatens much of the hope for conquering either plague. The science of TB and its control has been one of the greatest achievements in medicine. Robert Koch discovered the tubercle bacillus in 1882 and he succeeded in fulfilling his postulates through remarkable achievements of culture staining and experimental studies in animals. Successful therapy began with the discovery of streptomycin in 1943 and the genome of Mycobacterium tuberculosis was sequenced in 1998. TB has been a curable disease for 40 years and a cure can now be achieved for as little as $16/patient. There are also highly effective methods to achieve TB control. Nevertheless it has been estimated that (1) ~30% of the global population is infected (2) a new infection occurs every second and (3) ~1.7 million deaths due to TB occur every year. (excerpt)
Brown carbon in tar balls from smoldering biomass combustion

Abstract. We report the direct observation of laboratory production of spherical, carbonaceous particles – "tar balls" – from smoldering combustion of two commonly occurring dry mid-latitude fuels. Real-time measurements of spectrally varying absorption Angstrom coefficients (AAC) indicate that a class of light absorbing organic carbon (OC) with wavelength dependent imaginary part of its refractive index – optically defined as "brown carbon" – is an important component of tar balls. The spectrum of the imaginary parts of their complex refractive indices can be described with a Lorentzian-like model with an effective resonance wavelength in the ultraviolet (UV) spectral region. Sensitivity calculations for aerosols containing traditional OC (no absorption at visible and UV wavelengths) and brown carbon suggest that accounting for near-UV absorption by brown carbon leads to an increase in aerosol radiative forcing efficiency and increased light absorption. Since particles from smoldering combustion account for nearly three-fourths of the total carbonaceous aerosol mass emitted globally, inclusion of the optical properties of tar balls into radiative forcing models has significance for the Earth's radiation budget, optical remote sensing, and understanding of anomalous UV absorption in the troposphere.
A non-homogeneous Markov model for phased-mission reliability analysis

Three assumptions of Markov modeling for reliability of phased-mission systems that limit flexibility of representation are identified. The proposed generalization has the ability to represent state-dependent behavior, handle phases of random duration using globally time-dependent distributions of phase change time, and model globally time-dependent failure and repair rates. The approach is based on a single nonhomogeneous Markov model in which the concept of state transition is extended to include globally time-dependent phase changes. Phase change times are specified using nonoverlapping distributions with probability distribution functions that are zero outside assigned time intervals; the time intervals are ordered according to the phases. A comparison between a numerical solution of the model and simulation demonstrates that the numerical solution can be several times faster than simulation. >
Reliable communication in systems on chips

System on Chip (SoC) design faces several challenges which are due to the extremely small nature of electronic devices and the consequent opportunity to realize multi-processing systems of extremely high complexity. To manage large scale design, SoCs are assembled out of complex standard parts, such as programmable cores and memory arrays. Thus, the major design challenge is to provide correct and reliable operation of the interconnected components. Top-down correct component interconnection will become increasingly harder to succeed, because the interface features of components will also scale-up in complexity. New design methodologies will need to leverage component self-configuration and adaptation to the underlying communication fabric.
Lubrication issues in magnetic disk storage devices

Lubrication mechanisms are of considerable interest in maintaining and improving mechanical reliability of magnetic storage systems. There have been many attempts to develop a detailed understanding of the nature of the lubrication process and the role that various contributing factors play. The aim of this paper is to examine the tribological behavior of various lubricants and to highlight the factors most responsible for a satisfactory performance of the head/disk interface. Topics pertaining to lubricant chemistry and its degradation mechanisms, surface morphology and surface chemistry, interactions between the lubricant molecules and the overcoat surface, surface mobility and autophobicity of the lubricant films are covered. The effect of file contaminants, including water, on stiction and durability is also discussed. Experimental data are presented whenever possible to support the relevant theories or discussed concepts.
Excited State Energy Transfer Pathways in Photosynthetic Reaction Centers. 4. Asymmetric Energy Transfer in the Heterodimer Mutant

In bacterial photosynthetic reaction centers, ultrafast singlet excited state energy transfer occurs from the monomeric bacteriochlorophylls, B, and bacteriopheophytins, H, to the homodimer special pair, a pair of strongly interacting bacteriochlorophylls. In the M202HL mutant, one of the bacteriochlorophylls comprising the special pair is replaced by a bacteriopheophytin, and this is called the heterodimer special pair or D. We report the direct observation of spontaneous fluorescence from 1 B in the heterodimer mutant. In contrast to results for the homodimer special pair where 1 B decays with a rate constant of (160 fs) -1 (King, B. A.; McAnaney, T. B.; de Winter, A.; Boxer, S. G. J. Phys. Chem. B2000, 104, 8895-8902), 1 B decay in M202HL exhibits two components with rate constants (700 fs) -1 and (190 fs) -1 ; these are similar to what we reported earlier for the rise of 1 D spontaneous fluorescence (King, B. A.; Stanley, R. J.; Boxer, S. G. J. Phys. Chem. B 1997, 101, 3644-3648). In the double mutant M202HL/M182HL, where the accessory bacteriochlorophyll on the M side is replaced by a bacteriopheophytin, the absorption bands corresponding to the chromophores in the BL and BM binding sites are quite well resolved, and it is possible to preferentially excite the chromophore on either the L or the M side. Analysis of the rise of 1 D fluorescence in the double mutant supports the earlier assignment of the slower 700 fs energy transfer component to 1 BL f D, while the faster 190 fs energy transfer component is assigned to 1 BM f D. Replacement of bacteriochlorophyll by bacteriopheophytin in the BM binding site does not alter the time constants of the two energy transfer pathways. Excited state energy transfer to D is the same in QA-depleted and QA-reduced reaction centers, suggesting that electron transfer processes that be might sensitive to a charge on Q A, such as 1 BL f BL + HL - , do not compete with relatively slow 1 BL f D energy transfer. The results support earlier findings that singlet energy transfer from the monomeric chromophores along the L and M branches to the heterodimer special pair is asymmetric and is faster along the M side, in contrast to the homodimer special pair in wild type where the energy transfer rates along the two branches are very similar. Thus, conversion of the special pair homodimer to a heterodimer breaks the symmetry of ultrafast energy transfer along the two branches of chromophores. These findings may provide information on differences in the electronic interactions on the L vs M sides of the RC that is relevant to unidirectional electron transfer.
Camera calibration with a near-parallel (ill-conditioned) calibration board configuration

Tsai's radial alignment constraint (RAC) method has been shown as a viable candidate for camera calibration. The solution procedure, however, will fail if the camera plane is parallel to the plane defined by a calibration board which is used to provide calibration data. Tsai also devised an algorithm that handled the exactly parallel case. In this paper, we show that by a slight modification of the RAC-based camera calibration method, the unknown parameters of the camera can still be calibrated even when the sensor plane is near-parallel to the camera calibration board. An application example of the proposed approach is the calibration of a selectively compliant assembly robot arm (SCARA) with a hand-mounted camera, where the extrinsic parameters need to be repeatedly calibrated to reconstruct robot end-effector poses at various robot measurement configurations.
INTERACTIONS OF CARBON-NANOTUBULE PROXIMAL PROBE TIPS WITH DIAMOND AND GRAPHENE

Interactions between proximal probe tips composed of carbon nanotubules (CNTs) and diamond and graphene surfaces are investigated using molecular dynamics simulations. The simulations reveal the mechanisms of buckling, bending, slipping, and elastic recovery of the CNT tips on these surfaces and suggest that they will not wear out when crashed as conventional tips often do unless the surface is highly reactive. The simulations also show how the deformation mechanism changes as a function of tubule length and the effect of these changes on the buckling force is discussed quantitatively. [S0031-9007(98)07108-7]
Soils: Genesis and Geomorphology

Many pedologists share the sentiment that a more comprehensive textbook is needed for the field of soil genesis and geomorphology. Schaetzl and Anderson have published a textbook that comes close to satisfying this need. As stated in the preface, their goal is to “produce a soil science text that
An integrated dynamic weighing system based on SCADA

This paper presents a prototyped dynamic weighing system, which integrates together three advanced software environments: MATLAB, LabVIEW and iFIX SCADA. They have been used for advanced signal processing, data acquisition, as well as visualization and process control, respectively. Dynamic weighing is a constantly developing field of metrology. Because of the highly complicated structure of any electronic weighing module, it is vulnerable to many sources of environmental disturbances. For this reason, there is a lot of research concerned with weighing signal processing, mechanical matters and functionality of the system. This paper describes some issues connected with dynamic weighing and discusses the necessity of implementing signal processing methods. Implementation of this feature is impossible in the majority of SCADA systems. The integration of the three environments mentioned above is an attempt to create an industrial system with capabilities to deal with major dynamic weighing problems. It is innovative because it connects the industrial SCADA, laboratory/industrial product LabVIEW and MATLAB. In addition, the algorithms responsible for process control and data exchange are presented. The paper includes a description of the capabilities, performance tests, as well as benefits and drawbacks, of the system. The outcome of the research is a prototyped system and evaluation of its usefulness.
Removing the Blindfold and Tipping the Scales: The Unintended Lesson of Ashcroft v. Iqbal is that Frivolous Lawsuits may be Important to Our Nation

This Essay questions whether the gain of curbing perceived frivolous litigation is worth the cost of undermining the core civic value of neutrality of justice. In Ashcroft v Iqbal, the Supreme Court weighs in on the public debate about frivolous litigation. The Ashcroft v. Iqbal Opinion essentially is a memorandum by the Supreme Court written to the trial judges of America, encouraging these judges to aggressively, indeed very aggressively, identify and dismiss potentially frivolous civil Complaints. That leeway-wrapped mandate comes at a cost. A cornerstone of our civic philosophy is that the judicial branch, as a general proposition, is a neutral and impartial arbiter of disputes, without regard to the identity or relative power of the litigants. It is this very concept that underlies the image of Lady Justice wearing a blindfold and holding a balanced scale. Experience tells us that Iqbal dismissals will not be content neutral. There is strong reason to believe that awareness of this lack of neutrality will percolate broadly into the public consciousness, and thus change the public belief in blind justice.
Single photon subradiance and superradiance revisited: a group theoretic analysis of subradiant states

Single photon emission from a collection of resonantly excited two-level atoms is an expanding field. Recent work has shown single photon superradiance from an extended ensemble yields enhanced directional spontaneous emission. This paper presents an operator which commutes with the observables and breaks their degeneracy for the single photon states. Its eigenvectors are a unimodular basis for the single photon states. A simple scheme is given for writing out these states directly without iterative construction and without requiring recourse to Gram–Schmidt orthogonalization. A relatively simple scheme is proposed for experimental realization. In the final part of the paper the mathematical method is extended to generate cooperative states with smaller cooperativity number R.
Extrinsic denervation causes a transient proabsorptive adrenergic hypersensitivity in the canine proximal colon.

Our aim was to determine if extrinsic denervation alters the absorptive response of the colon to proabsorptive and prosecretory stimuli. Ten dogs underwent enteric isolation of a 50-cm proximal colonic segment; five were also randomized to undergo extrinsic denervation (DEN). At 2 and 13 wk postoperatively, net absorptive fluxes (mean ± sem) of water and electrolytes were determined during basal conditions and during proabsorptive low-dose (0.3 μg/kg/min) or high-dose (3 μg/kg/min) norepinephrine or prosecretory VIP (500 pg/kg/min). The net absorptive flux of water under basal conditions was decreased in DEN versus neurally intact controls at two weeks (4.0 ± 0.6 vs 6.6 ± 0.7 μl/min/cm, P = 0.03) but did not differ at 13 weeks (5.0 ± 1.0 vs 5.7 ± 0.9, P > 0.05). Low- and high-dose norepinephrine increased water absorption in both groups at two weeks; the change in flux for high-dose norepinephrine was greater in DEN versus controls (4.1 ± 1 vs 2.1 ± 0.6 μl/min/cm, P = 0.04). Net absorptive fluxes of Na+ and Cl− followed these trends. VIP did not alter absorption of water or electrolytes. Extrinsic denervation of the proximal colon causes a decrease in net colonic absorption and a transient, proabsorptive adrenergic hypersensitivity in colonic absorption of water and electrolytes. VIP does not have a net secretory effect in the proximal canine colon.
Surface Optimization and Redox Behavior of Vanadium Oxides Supported on γ-Al2O3

This report describes optimization of the synthesis of γ-Al2O3 supported vanadium oxides using three different vanadium precursors: OV(OiPr)3, OV(OEt)3 and OV(OPr)3. It was observed that the actual loading of the metal oxide is controlled by a number of factors, including the kinetics and thermodynamics of the grafting process, the time allowed for the grafting reaction to proceed, the amount of available precursor, the concentration of the grafting solution, and temperature at which grafting is pursued. From TPR (temperature programmed reduction) and XPS (X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy) studies it was observed that V4+ and V5+ were the predominant oxidation states present under both normal and rigorous reducing conditions simulating those prevalent in the steam reforming process.
Absorption of lipids from mixed micellar bile salt solutions.

SummaryData are presented on the absorption of cholesterol and other lipids by everted rat intestinal sacs from micellar solutions of sodium taurochenodeoxycholate. It appears that neither simple, two-component nor complex, multiple-component micelles penetrate the intestinal mucosal wall intact, but rather that the lipids and the bile salts are absorbed individually by rat intestine.
Academic Optimism of Schools:A Resultant Force for Improving Student Academic Achievement

This critical synthesis incorporates both theoretical and empirical literature on academic optimism of schools.Academic optimism as a collective property of the culture of schools comprises of three highly related concepts:teacher collective efficacy,faculty trust in parents and students,and academic emphasis on creating positive and challenging academic environment for students.Empirical studies have found that academic optimism has significant contribution to student achievement in schools,after controlling for socioeconomic status,prior achievement,and other demographic characteristics.The theoretical frame that guided academic optimism study is positive psychology,social cognitive theory,and school organizational behavior theory.The trends in conceptualization,methods,and outcome measures of academic optimism are assessed.The implications and future research directions for academic optimism study are also discussed.
Modeling Moderation for Multi-Party Socially Assistive Robotics

Socially Assistive Robotics (SAR) is the study and development of algorithms that enable robots to help people achieve their goals through social interaction, such as coaching, therapy, or companionship. One extension of this field to multi-party interactions is the problem of moderation, in which an agent supports a group in achieving its goals. We validate the use of robot moderator in an open-ended interaction. The implemented algorithm does not use speech recognition; the robot moderates the interaction based on who is speaking, not what is said. We show that such a SAR moderator is accepted into human-human interactions, and can improve group cohesion and increase participant speech in those interactions. A number of studies have directly examined the role of a moderator in online or teleconference contexts (e.g., [1]). In the virtual agents community, Bohus and Horvitz developed an approach to enable a virtual agent to take part in group conversations in open environments [2]. There has been substantial work on robot-centered interactions, where the robot provides a service to participants, such as a bartender [3] or game master [4]. Additionally, Mutlu et al. used a social robot to manipulate the roles of the participants [5] and Matsuyama et al. developed a framework for enabling an agent to integrate a participant into a conversation [6]. This work contributes an autonomous controller for a robot moderator, evaluated with participants in an open-ended discussion.
A System to Assess the Competency for Interpretation of Esophageal Manometry Identifies Variation in Learning Curves

Background & Aims Quality esophageal high-resolution manometry (HRM) studies require competent interpretation of data. However, there is little understanding of learning curves, training requirements, or measures of competency for HRM. We aimed to develop and use a competency assessment system to examine learning curves for interpretation of HRM data. Methods We conducted a prospective multicenter study of 20 gastroenterology trainees with no experience in HRM, from 8 centers, over an 8-month period (May through December 2015). We designed a web-based HRM training and competency assessment system. After reviewing the training module, participants interpreted 50 HRM studies and received answer keys at the fifth and then at every second interpretation. A cumulative sum procedure produced individual learning curves with preset acceptable failure rates of 10%; we classified competency status as competency not achieved, competency achieved, or competency likely achieved. Results Five (25%) participants achieved competence, 4 (20%) likely achieved competence, and 11 (55%) failed to achieve competence. A minimum case volume to achieve competency was not identified. There was no significant agreement between diagnostic accuracy and accuracy for individual HRM skills. Conclusions We developed a competency assessment system for HRM interpretation; using this system, we found significant variation in learning curves for HRM diagnosis and individual skills. Our system effectively distinguished trainee competency levels for HRM interpretation and contrary to current recommendations, found that competency for HRM is not case-volume specific.
Law and Social Control

Social control efforts involving religion often involve applications of law and of legal processes. Herein the theories of two prominent sociologists of law, Donald Black and William Chambliss, are applied to development of laws regulating religion and the application of laws against new religions. The ways in which both traditional and minority faiths such as New Religious Movements (NRMs) can themselves sometimes make use of the law, and in the case of dominant religions, even help construct the law also are examined. The use of the pseudo-scientific concept of “brainwashing” as a major tool for social control of new religions is examined, as is the use of laws dealing with children that supplanted brainwashing claims in social control once second generations developed within NRMs. The chapter closes with a discussion of future directions for research concerning how religions function within modern societies characterized by the “judicialization of politics.”
Venous Thromboembolism among 1,570 Patients Undergoing Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation: Incidence, Risk Factors, Treatment and Outcomes.

Introduction: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is increasingly diagnosed among individuals with hematologic malignancies. It is unclear whether patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) are at risk for VTE. We aimed to describe the incidence of VTE and risk factors among patients undergoing HSCT. Methods: Using ICD-9 procedure codes in a discharge database, we identified all patients undergoing inpatient HSCT at Johns Hopkins between July 1, 1993, and June 30, 2005. We reviewed electronic medical records for each patient to identify VTE and bleeding. The associations between VTE and clinical characteristics were tested using parametric and non-parametric statistical tests and survival analysis methods. Results: 1,570 patients had 3,425 person-years of follow-up. Median age was 46 years and 51% of patients were male. All patients had indwelling central venous catheters; pharmacological VTE prophylaxis was not used for any patient but ambulation was encouraged. Between admission and 180 days after HSCT, 75 VTE occurred in 70 patients (4.5%; 95% CI, 3.5–5.6%). VTE included 55 (73%) catheter-associated and 11 (15%) non-catheter-associated deep venous thromboses (DVT), and 9 (12%) pulmonary emboli (PE). Median platelet count at time of VTE was 77 K/mm3 (interquartile range [IQR] 42–159 K/mm3), and platelet count was < 50 K/mm3 at the time of VTE in 31% of cases. In multivariate analyses, VTE was associated with a history of prior VTE (OR 2.86; 95% CI, 1.25–6.55) and with graft-versus-host-disease (GVHD) (OR 2.36; 95% CI, 1.38–4.04). 86% of patients received anticoagulation for treatment. Clinically significant bleeding occurred in 238 patients after HSCT (15%), of whom 56 patients had fatal bleeding. Bleeding was associated with GVHD (OR 2.32; 95% CI, 1.71–3.16) and with initiation of anticoagulation for VTE diagnosed after HSCT (OR=3.00; 95% CI, 1.73–5.21). Bleeding was not associated with the continuation of anticoagulation initiated prior to admission (OR=1.13; 95% CI, 0.54–2.35). Conclusions: VTE occurs relatively infrequently among patients undergoing HSCT and primarily in association with central venous catheter use. In contrast, clinically significant bleeding is a relatively common complication of HSCT, even in the absence of pharmacologic VTE prophylaxis. The unique hemostatic milieu associated with HSCT should be carefully considered when contemplating routine VTE prophylaxis in this patient population. The low risk of VTE associated with the high risk of bleeding makes pharmacologic VTE prophylaxis in this population both unnecessary and hazardous.
A Novel n-Type Organosilane-Metal Ion Hybrid of Rhodamine B and Copper Cation for Low-Temperature Thermoelectric Materials.

An n-type organosilane–metal ion hybrid of Rhodamine B–silane and copper cation (Cu–RBS) was investigated as a low-temperature thermoelectric material. Computational analysis revealed the most likely localized binding site of Cu2+ was to the Rhodamine B core and provided predictions of molecular orbitals and electrostatic potentials upon complexation. The concentration-dependent optical absorption and emission spectra confirmed the effective metal–ligand charge transfer from Cu2+ to the xanthene core of RBS, indicating the potential for improved electrical properties for the complex relative to RBS. The electrical conductivity and Seebeck thermoelectric (TE) behavior were evaluated and compared with its precursor complex of Rhodamine B and copper cation. While a moderately high electrical conductivity of 4.38 S m–1 was obtained for the Cu–RBS complex, the relatively low Seebeck coefficient of −26.2 μV/K resulted in a low TE power factor. However, compared to other organic doped materials, these results we...
Addressing Estimated Hearing Loss in Adults in 2060.

This population epidemiology study uses data from the NHANES to estimate the number of adults expected to have hearing loss in the next 43 years.
DICOM image quantification secondary capture (DICOM IQSC) integrated with numeric results, regions, and curves: implementation and applications in nuclear medicine

In this paper, we describe an enhanced DICOM Secondary Capture (SC) that integrates Image Quantification (IQ) results, Regions of Interest (ROIs), and Time Activity Curves (TACs) with screen shots by embedding extra medical imaging information into a standard DICOM header. A software toolkit of DICOM IQSC has been developed to implement the SC-centered information integration of quantitative analysis for routine practice of nuclear medicine. Primary experiments show that the DICOM IQSC method is simple and easy to implement seamlessly integrating post-processing workstations with PACS for archiving and retrieving IQ information. Additional DICOM IQSC applications in routine nuclear medicine and clinic research are also discussed.
Satellite Radiance Data Assimilation within the Hourly Updated Rapid Refresh

AbstractAssimilation of satellite radiance data in limited-area, rapidly updating weather model/assimilation systems poses unique challenges compared to those for global model systems. Principal among these is the severe data restriction posed by the short data cutoff time. Also, the limited extent of the model domain reduces the spatial extent of satellite data coverage and the lower model top of regional models reduces the spectral usage of radiance data especially for infrared data. These three factors impact the quality of the feedback to the bias correction procedures, making the procedures potentially less effective. Within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Rapid Refresh (RAP) hourly updating prediction system, satellite radiance data are assimilated using the standard procedures within the Gridpoint Statistical Interpolation (GSI) analysis package. Experiments for optimizing the operational implementation of radiance data into RAP and for improving benefits of radiance data...
Single-frequency near-field MIMO imaging

A near-field radar imaging technique is presented based on single-frequency measurements from a multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) array. Such arrays are able to fully sample the κ-space of a region of interest. Advantageously, both range and cross-range information can be reconstructed, in contrast to conventional single-input multiple-output systems which require wideband frequency illumination. A theory of single frequency MIMO imaging is developed and studied through numerical modeling and experimental validation.
Aged garlic extract supplementation modifies inflammation and immunity of adults with obesity: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.

Summary Background Obesity is a serious global health issue and often results in low-grade systemic inflammation, increasing the risk for several chronic diseases. If obesity-induced inflammation could be reduced, fewer complications and co-morbidities might occur. Objective To investigate whether daily supplementation with aged garlic extract (AGE) could reduce chronic inflammation and improve immune function in adults with obesity. Methods Fifty-one healthy adults with obesity (mean age 45.6 ± 1.6 years, mean BMI 36.1 ± 0.9 kg/m2) were recruited to participate in a parallel, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized study. After being matched by BMI, participants were randomized into the AGE supplementation or placebo group. Participants were asked to take a divided daily dose of 3.6 g AGE or placebo, with food for 6 weeks. Blood lipid and inflammatory markers were assessed at baseline and after 6 weeks of supplementation. Additionally, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were isolated from whole blood and used to detect changes in immune cell populations and levels of cytokine secretion. A one-way ANCOVA was performed to evaluate differences between the two groups, controlling for respective baseline values. Results At the end of study, serum IL-6 (p = 0.04) and TNF-α (p = 0.05) of participants consuming AGE were significantly lower than those consuming the placebo capsules. PBMC flow cytometry results showed that participants from the AGE group had a higher proportion of γδ-T cells (p = 0.03) and a lower proportion of NKT cells (p = 0.02) in the total population of lymphocytes. There was no difference in percentage of NK cells between the two groups. A significant difference in blood LDL concentration was also observed (p = 0.05). Total cholesterol and non-HDL cholesterol tended to differ between participants from the AGE group and those from the placebo group, although values did not achieve statistical significance. Conclusion Six weeks of AGE consumption modulated immune cell distribution, prevented the increase of serum TNF-α and IL-6 concentrations and reduced blood LDL concentration in adults with obesity. AGE, taken consistently, may be beneficial in preventing the development of chronic diseases associated with low-grade inflammation in adults with obesity. Registered under ClinicalTrials.gov with the identifier code NCT01959646 .
The experience and management of HIV stigma among HIV-negative adults in heterosexual serodiscordant relationships in New York City.

Despite treatment advances that have improved the health and life expectancy of HIV-positive people and contribute to the prevention of HIV transmission, HIV stigma is still frequently experienced by HIV-infected individuals and those close to them. This study investigated the types of HIV-related stigma experienced by HIV-negative adults in serodiscordant heterosexual relationships when their partner's HIV-positive status was revealed to family and friends and their strategies to manage such stigma. In-depth interviews were conducted in New York City with 56 men and 44 women who were HIV negative and had been in a relationship for at least six months with an HIV-positive partner of the opposite sex. Those who had disclosed the HIV status of their partner to family or friends experienced four main types of stigmatizing behaviours: distancing (avoidance of the participant or his/her partner for fear of infection), depreciation of the partner (being told their partner is not worthy of them), violation of privacy (people spreading the information that the partner is HIV positive), or accusations (being told that it was wrong to be in a relationship with HIV-positive people or to try to conceive with them). Participants described four main ways of managing actual or anticipated stigma: secrecy (not disclosing the HIV status of their partner to anyone), avoidance (breaking ties with people who held stigmatizing views), seeking support from their partner or the HIV-positive community (e.g., HIV-related organizations or their partner's family or friends), or education (informing family or friends about HIV treatment and prevention). Findings show that HIV-related "courtesy" stigma is frequently experienced by HIV-negative people in serodiscordant relationships but often can be managed. Offering support to individuals in serodiscordant relationships can improve the quality of life of HIV-positive people and their HIV-negative partners and potentially reduce HIV stigma.
Hybrid perovskite films approaching the radiative limit with over 90% photoluminescence quantum efficiency

Reducing non-radiative recombination in semiconducting materials is a prerequisite for achieving the highest performance in light-emitting and photovoltaic applications. Here, we characterize both external and internal photoluminescence quantum efficiency and quasi-Fermi-level splitting of surface-treated hybrid perovskite (CH3NH3PbI3) thin films. With respect to the material bandgap, these passivated films exhibit the highest quasi-Fermi-level splitting measured to date, reaching 97.1 ± 0.7% of the radiative limit, approaching that of the highest performing GaAs solar cells. We confirm these values with independent measurements of internal photoluminescence quantum efficiency of 91.9 ± 2.7% under 1 Sun illumination intensity, setting a new benchmark for these materials. These results suggest hybrid perovskite solar cells are inherently capable of further increases in power conversion efficiency if surface passivation can be combined with optimized charge carrier selective interfaces. Surface treatment is shown to yield passivated perovskite films with very high quasi-Fermi level splitting and internal photoluminescence quantum efficiency, indicating that further improvements in the performance of perovskite optoelectronics should be feasible.
Switchable Molecular Devices: From Rotaxanes to Nanoparticles

Rotaxanes have been used as molecular frameworks for the preparation of switchable or bi-stable systems. The properties of a rotaxane that can be switched by electrochemical and chemical means are described in detail and used as an example in this discussion. The advantages of the rotaxane framework compared to systems containing the individual active components mixed together are considered. A series of practical problems hindering the application of single-molecule devices in actual circuits are discussed. Finally, some emerging alternatives to single-molecule devices based on the quickly growing field of metal and semiconductor nanoparticles are briefly described.
Perceptions of ability among adults with upper limb absence: impacts of learning, identity, and community

Aims: The purpose of this research was to examine the lived experiences of adults with upper limb absence, specifically the interplay of device use, ability, and quality of life through semi-struct...