cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Petro-electric modeling for CSEM reservoir characterization and monitoring

The controlled-source electromagnetic (CSEM) method has been successfully applied to petroleum exploration; however, less effort has been made to highlight the applicability of this technique for reservoir monitoring. This work appraises the ability of time-lapse CSEM data to detect the changes in fluid saturation during water flooding into an oil reservoir. We simulated a poorly consolidated shaly sandstone reservoir based on a prograding near-shore depositional environment. Starting with an effective porosity model simulated by Gaussian geostatistics, dispersed clay and dual water models were efficiently combined with other well-known theoretical and experimental petrophysical correlations to consistently simulate reservoir properties. The constructed reservoir model was subjected to numerical simulation of multiphase fluid flow to predict the spatial distributions of fluid pressure and saturation. A geologically consistent rock physics model and a modified Archie’s equation for shaly sandstones were th...
Linear Evolution of Error Covariances in a Quasigeostrophic Model

Abstract The characteristics of forecast-error covariances, which are of central interest in both data assimilation and ensemble forecasting, are poorly known. This paper considers the linear dynamics of these covariances and examines their evolution from (nearly) homogeneous and isotropic initial conditions in a turbulent quasigeostrophic flow qualitatively similar to that of the midlatitude troposphere. The experiments use ensembles of 100 solutions to estimate the error covariances. The error covariances evolve on a timescale of O(1 day), comparable to the advective timescale of the reference flow. This timescale also defines an initial period over which the errors develop characteristic features that are insensitive to the chosen initial statistics. These include 1) scales comparable to those of the reference flow, 2) potential vorticity (PV) concentrated where the gradient of the reference-flow PV is large, particularly at the surface and tropopause, and 3) little structure in the interior of the tro...
Simulation Models to Demonstrate Mass Customization Strategies

Mass customization of products and services has been on the rise over the past several years across different industries. The increased interest in mass customization and personalization is evidended by the growth in research in the area, in scholarly publications as well as the emergence of new courses on the subject. Introducing courses on mass customization and advancing knowledge on the subject are essential to continue research to make mass customization a sustainable strategy. The effectiveness of such courses can be enhanced to a great extent by incorporating practical demonstrations to provide students an opportunity for active/experiental learning. With this form of learning students can take a participatory role rather than merely sitting to listen to lectures and often work together in teams to reflect upon the material taught in the classroom. It has been found that people often learn better through this approach. Therefore, innovative teaching aids that involve experiential learning, such as physical models and hands-on simulations can promote learning of and interest in mass customization. This paper presents a simple but versatile simulation that can be used in classroom enviroments, or even in technical fairs/exhibitions to help students (and visitor) understand the concept of mass customization and challenges to implementing the strategy.
Framework for a Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Driving Sustainable Changes in Energy Usage

Congress is currently debating “Cap-and-Trade” (“C&T”) legislation that would restrict emissions of greenhouse gases from major sources. This legislation would primarily impact companies that generate electricity and major manufacturers that burn large quantities of coal. Title IV of the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 (“1990 CAAA”) mandated a C&T program that has proven successful at reducing emissions of sulfur dioxide and oxides of nitrogen. However, implementation of that C&T program did not drive reductions in energy consumption nor did it result in an increase in use or demand for renewable energy. In short, C&T did not create behavioral or technological changes leading towards more sustainable fuel supplies and energy use. If the long term policy goal is to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases and to shift away from combustion of fossil-fuels and dependence on foreign oil, then a more comprehensive framework for reducing greenhouse gas emissions must include incentives for reducing consumption and increasing the availability and affordability of alternate energy sources. Such a comprehensive framework would require closing the cost gap between energy generated from fossil-fuels and energy generated from alternate and renewable sources. One market-based approach that may provide a useful template for reducing the use and emissions of compounds of concern was that of Title VI of the 1990 CAAA which phased in restrictions on use and increased the cost of materials that were determined to be contributing to the hole in the stratospheric ozone layer. Title VI may provide the best template for driving changes in behavior and technology in that it rapidly drove large scale technological innovation that resulted in a phased decrease in use of the regulated materials through market-based incentives and disincentives. If the goal is to not only reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions while also driving energy usage away from the unsustainable use of fossil fuels towards renewable and sustainable energy sources, then a combination of the most successful elements of both the programs noted above could result in a comprehensive framework for achieving that goal.
Literary Contributions of Catholics in Nineteenth-Century Mexico: Part Two: The Díaz Regime (1867–1910)

Another gifted writer whose name has almost passed into oblivion is Tirso Rafael Cordoba . Like Rafael Gomez, he from Michoacan, a circumstance that seems to explain why during the period we are considering these two men stood on such intimate terms of friendship and in their literary career had so many things in common. His biographer tells us that in 1853, at the early age of fifteen, Cordoba, then a student in the Seminario de Morelia, was admitted to membership in the Liceo Iturbide, a distinction conferred upon him in view of the exceptional progress he had made in the arts and sciences. Only for the disturbed times in which his youth and early manhood fell, Cordoba would have entered the priesthood, this being his intention when he studied philosophy in the Seminario Conciliar Palafoxiano in the city of Puebla. From this celebrated school he graduated with high honors and then proceeded to Mexico City where he studied canon and civil law in the Colegio de San Ildefonso and passed the bar examination in the University of Mexico. But again he became a victim of circumstances, unable to engage freely and fully in the legal and political circles for which he was so richly qualified. After the fall of the Second Empire, at which time he was Secretary General of the municipal government of Puebla, he retired from public life and thereafter took a prominent part, chiefly in Mexico City, in social and literary activities. He was one of the founders of the organization known as La Sociedad Catolica and collaborated in the founding and editing of periodicals, popular as well as literary, such as La Voz de Mexico, El Obrero Catolico, El Hijo del Obrero, La Lira Poblana, La Aurora , and La Oliva .
Thou Shalt Not Kill as Defeasible Heuristic: Law and Economics and the Debate over Assisted Suicide

Although the literature addressing medical decisions at the end of life is vast, surprisingly little of it has come from the perspective of law and economics. This article begins with a critical account of one of the very few law and economics-based discussions of physician-assisted suicide (PAS), that developed by Judge Richard Posner in his book, Aging and Old Age. Central to Judge Posner's account is a model of PAS as a sort of technological innovation. What this particular innovation is supposed to bring is a radical reduction in certain critical information costs attending end-of-life decision making. It is argued that Judge Posner's model - although innovative and instructive - is incomplete and, consequently, inadequate to the normative task of justifying a change in legal regime with regard to PAS. Certain cognitive issues are held to confound the already difficult task of securing bona fide patient consent. That prompts interesting questions about how to value inevitable errors in consent, questions examined in light of the risk management literature regarding valuation of life methodologies. It is argued that the PAS debate makes telling certain difficulties in such methodologies. It is also argued that we ought to adopt conservative standards with regard to attempts to legislate revisions in certain fundamental moral norms. Finding that Judge Posner and others have failed to meet such standards is an argument on behalf of what is, under the laws of most states, the status quo.
Homogeneous surface oxidation of organosilicates by controlled combustion of adsorbed fuels: a facile method for low-temperature processing.

We have developed a method for the oxidation of organosilicate materials at temperatures considerably lower than those typically required for uncatalyzed oxidation. The process utilizes a combustible fuel delivered to the surface in an oxidizing environment to locally oxidize materials with carbon–silicon bonds. It also provides a level of control that cannot be achieved through standard high-energy top-to-bottom oxidative procedures such as UV–ozone and O2 plasmas. While the latter processes attack the outer interface, local oxidation can be achieved using our process by manipulating the distribution of the combustible fuel. We use this technique to generate oxidized porous organosilicate films with either a sharp oxidation front or uniform oxidation where the relative carbon content can be controlled through the film thickness depending on processing conditions. Further, we show that this process can also be used to seal bulk interconnected microporosity in films (<1 nm) without substantially changing t...
Treatment of child diarrhea by ginger-partitioned moxibustion plus Tuina: A report of 52 cases

Treated 52 cases of child diarrhea with ginger-partitioned moxibustion plus Tuina, after three treatments, all the patients are cured.
2006 Research Consortium Graduate Student Award Winner

Abstract This abstract will be among those presented in the session entitled “Research Consortium Social: Research Consortium Grant Findings and Top Rated Posters” scheduled for Wednesday, April 26, 2006, from 4:30-6:00 p.m. in the Exhibit Hall.
Characterization and growth factor stimulation of l -arginine transport in a human colon cancer cell line

Background: Epidermal growth factor (EGF) and transforming growth factor α (TGFα) are potent mitogens that contribute to abnormal growth regulation in colon cancer. Growth factors have been shown to regulate transmembrane nutrient uptake as an adaptive response to support cellular proliferation.
Biologically Inspired Thermal-Structural Satellite Panels

Recently, there has been a surge in interest in biologically-inspired structures where natural structures are used to provide guidance to improve overall performance of aerospace systems. In particular, the incorporation of circulatory systems to significantly improve the material and physical properties of the system or enhance the system by adding a new capability such as thermal management is of interest. This paper details a “symbiotic” solution where thermal management functionality is embedded within the structure of the satellite. This approach is based on the flight proven and structurally efficient isogrid architecture with the addition of fluid channels embedded in the ribs and face-sheet to form an integrated circulatory system. The use of combined fluidic-structural systems has enormous potential for satellite thermal management. The conceptual design, analysis, and optimization of a reconfigurable thermal-structural panel for satellite applications will be presented. The focus will be on the fluidic chambers integrated into the ribs of the panel, the distribution system in the face-sheets of the panel, and the passive micro valve used to control flow within the system.
Role of Surface Reconstruction and External Ion Beam in the Growth Kinetics of III-V Molecular Beam Epitaxy

Computer simulations of III-V molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) show that surface reconstruction induced modulation of kinetic rates could give rise to ordering in alloys. Results are also presented for the possible influence of an external ion beam in achieving low temperature epitaxy as well as smoother growth front under usual conditions.
INVESTIGATING SEGMENTED TRAILING-EDGE SURFACES FOR FULL AUTHORITY CONTROL OF A UAV

Aircraft control has progressed considerably since the early experiments of the Wright brothers in wing twisting. A diverse range of control schemes has since been developed to manage various aspects of the flight environment. A modern airliner, for instance, uses dozens of different control surfaces. Such highly specialized controls prohibit high performance throughout the wide flight envelope and offer little for redundancy. The concept of a morphing aircraft, however, would address these issues by allowing complete control of the aircraft structure for both primary control and multi-role situations. This research investigates a discretized approach to morphing the trailing edge of the wing. A UAV was modified to incorporate simple morphing capability and was flight tested extensively. The resulting system identification indicated that the lateral and longitudinal dynamics could be accurately modeled using simple linear-regression techniques. Both differential and collective deflection of the wing segments showed potential for full authority control over the aircraft. Using the models generated, controllers for the aircraft are being developed to fully exploit the potential of a highly configurable control system.
Detection of human bocavirus in 100 children with acute respiratory tract infection in Nanjing

Objective:To understand whether human bocavirus(HBoV) is one of the pathogens leading to the children's respiratory infections in Nanjing.Methods:The patients hospitalized for respiratory tract infections(RTIs) were enrolled in the present study.Nasopharyngeal aspirates(NPAs) were collected from November 2009 to June 2010.HBoV NP1 gene in the samples was determined by polymerase chain reaction(PCR).The amplified positive NP1 fragments were sequenced and alignment with other HBoVs by DNAStar.Phylogenetic trees were drawn with MEGA software.The clinic findings of the children with HBoV infection were collected and analyzed.Results:Of all the 100 NPAs,five positive ones were founded.Among the five positive samples,the sequence homogeneity of the amplified NP1 gene fragment were 99.7%～100.0% at the nucleotide level.As compared with HBoVs from other countries,the homogeneity were 99.4%～100.0%.Among the five patients,the diagnoses were bronchopneumonia,bronchiolitis and bronchitis.Clinic findings included fever,cough,wheezing,etc.The patients were all recovered with conventional therapy.Conclusion:HBoV was one of the pathogens leading to the children's respiratory tract infection in Nanjing.
Synthesis of Lauric Acid-2-Hydroxy-3-Propane Sulfonic Acid Sodium Salt

Lauric acid-2-hydroxy-3-propane sulfonic acid sodium salt was synthesized by using sodium bisulfite,epichlorohydrin,sodium phosphate and lauric acid as raw materials.The influential factors,such as reaction temperature,reaction time,the amount of catalyst and reactant molar ratio were explored.The optimum method for synthesizing the objective compound was determined as follows:the molar ratio of sodium bisulfite to epichlorohydrin was 1.15∶1,firstly,epichlorohydrin solution was dropped into sodium bisulfite sloution for 2 h and reacted for 1.5 h at 85℃ to obtain 3-chloro-2-hydroxy-propane sulfonic acid sodium;secondly,3-chloro-2-hydroxy-propane sulfonic acid sodium was dropped into sodium phosphate solution and reacted for 4 h at 55℃ to obtain 2,3-oxiranemethane sulfonic acid sodium salt;finally,2,3-oxiranemethane sulfonic acid sodium salt was dropped into lauric acid solution for 0.5 h and reacted for 2.5 h at 90℃ to obtain lauric acid-2-hydroxy-3-propane sulfonic acid sodium salt.The highest yield reached 85.2%.And the product was characterized by FTIR.
The analysis about the obstacle and countermeasure of China's personal credit system development

For the moment, China's retail business of commercial banks is facing "Credit absence from Bottleneck", and the foundation of levy credit system is the breach mouth of its development. But the main obstacle of developing the levy credit system is that the special management institution has not been established, the incomplete of the markets running system and the unsound laws and regulations on credit. So it should become the important theory and realistic problem in China's financial circle to accelerate the retail business development of China's commercial banks and the foundation of the personal levy credit system further.
Moderate, regular alcohol consumption is associated with higher cognitive function in older community-dwelling adults

BACKGROUND: Evidence suggests that moderate alcohol consumption may protect against cognitive decline and dementia. However, uncertainty remains over the patterns of drinking that are most beneficial. OBJECTIVE: To examine associations between amount and frequency of alcohol consumption with multiple domains of cognitive function in a well-characterized cohort of older community-dwelling adults in southern California. DESIGN: Observational, cross-sectional cohort study. SETTING: A research visit between 1988-1992 in Rancho Bernardo, California. PARTICIPANTS: 1624 participants of the Rancho Bernardo Study (mean age ± SD = 73.2 ± 9.3 years). Measurements: Participants completed a neuropsychological test battery, self-administered questionnaires on alcohol consumption and lifestyle, and a clinical health evaluation. We classified participants according to average amount of alcohol intake into never, former, moderate, heavy and excessive drinkers, and according to frequency of alcohol intake, into non-drinkers, rare, infrequent, frequent and daily drinkers. We examined the association between alcohol intake and cognitive function, controlling for age, sex, education, exercise, smoking, waist-hip ratio, hypertension and self-assessed health. RESULTS: Amount and frequency of alcohol intake were significantly associated with cognitive function, even after controlling for potentially related health and lifestyle variables. Global and executive function showed positive linear associations with amount and frequency of alcohol intake, whereas visual memory showed an inverted U-shaped association with alcohol intake, with better performance for moderate and infrequent drinkers than for non-drinkers, excessive drinkers or daily drinkers. CONCLUSIONS: In several cognitive domains, moderate, regular alcohol intake was associated with better cognitive function relative to not drinking or drinking less frequently. This suggests that beneficial cognitive effects of alcohol intake may be achieved with low levels of drinking that are unlikely to be associated with adverse effects in an aging population. Language: en
Pigmented Villonodular Synovitis: A Comprehensive Review and Proposed Treatment Algorithm.

Evidence now exists suggesting a neoplastic origin for pigmented villonodular synovitis, including a thorough description of the translocations involved.Arthroscopic excision for localized pigmented villonodular synovitis allows for both minimal recurrence and morbidity when compared with open excis
Prebiotics Use in Children

Colonization and gradual formation of intestinal microbiome in infancy and childhood is a process that may presumably influence gut physiology, immune system functioning, and metabolism over the long term. Consumption of prebiotics, either the ones that are naturally present in human milk and natural foods or those that are used as a supplement to infant formulas and weaning foods, may importantly affect compositional and functional properties of gut microbiota. This chapter presents a systematic review of clinical studies regarding the effects of prebiotic use in infancy and childhood. Regarding the results of published randomized-controlled trials, limited evidence exists that specific prebiotics may influence gastrointestinal motor functions, such as gastric emptying and intestinal transit, which result in better tolerance to enteral feeding in infants, as well as in increased frequency and/or softer consistency of the stools. Prebiotics enhance the absorption of minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, zinc, and iron. They promote weight gain in infants, but presumably protect against the development of obesity and metabolic diseases later in life. In addition, early supplementation with prebiotics in formula-fed infants may influence the immune system in a way to increase its protective efficacy against infections, in both the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts, as well as to decrease the prevalence of allergic diseases. However, results of some studies failed to support these observations and additional clinical trials are needed to make firm conclusions.
Modelling Aged Polymers with Finite Element Analysis

We have modelled the stress relaxation behaviour of silastic foams over a 5-year period. We have used relaxation data from tests at Los Alamos and other facilities. The model behaviour is consistent with data taken on such foams at the Allied Signal Plant in Kansas City, Missouri. Initial compression for these tests can be as high as 55%. Variability of the initial properties of the foams significantly influences the long term relaxation behaviour as these strains are high enough to be in the “lock-up” region of the compressive stress-strain curve.
The risk of melanoma and hematologic cancers in patients with psoriasis

Background The risk of melanoma and hematologic cancers in patients with psoriasis is controversial. Objective We sought to assess the risk of melanoma and hematologic cancers in patients with psoriasis, and the association with different treatments. Methods We used case-control and retrospective cohort designs to determine melanoma or hematologic cancer risk in patients with psoriasis. Risk with treatment type was assessed using Fisher exact test. Results Patients with psoriasis had 1.53 times greater risk of developing a malignancy compared with patients without psoriasis ( P Limitations It is possible that patients developed malignancy subsequent to the follow-up time included in the study. Conclusion Patients with psoriasis may experience an elevated risk of melanoma and hematologic cancers, compared with the general population. The risk is not increased by systemic or biologic psoriasis therapies.
Facilitating Conditions and Cost in Determining M-Commerce Acceptance in Jordan: Initial Findings

The technology acceptance model (TAM) is practically explaining behavioral intention (BI). However, extensions are needed to further examine BI toward mobile commerce (m-commerce) acceptance due to the insufficient power of just two constructs perceived usefulness (PU) and perceived ease of use (PEOU) to explain BI. Therefore, limitations of TAM lead this research to extended TAM in two ways. First, facilitating conditions (FC) factor is not considered in TAM. In fact, Davis assumed that everyone is in control of the resources regarding adopting a new system. Second, cost is one of the obstacles in adopting m-commerce. High cost can decrease the acceptance rate of m-commerce. M-commerce services involve fees (connections fees, subscription fees, or roaming fees). TAM does not explain cost factor, because TAM was applied mostly in an organizational context that does not involve cost by the end-users in workplace. This research intends to address the above limitations by augmenting facilitating conditions and cost.
The prostate metastasis suppressor gene NDRG1 differentially regulates cell motility and invasion.

Experimental and clinical evidence suggests that N-myc downregulated gene 1 (NDRG1) functions as a suppressor of prostate cancer metastasis. Elucidating pathways that drive survival and invasiveness of NDRG1-deficient prostate cancer cells can help in designing therapeutics to target metastatic prostate cancer cells. However, the molecular mechanisms that lead NDRG1-deficient prostate cancer cells to increased invasiveness remain largely unknown. In this study, we demonstrate that NDRG1-deficient prostate tumors have decreased integrin expression and reduced cell adhesion and motility. Our data indicate that loss of NDRG1 differentially affects Rho GTPases. Specifically, there is a downregulation of active RhoA and Rac1 GTPases with a concomitant upregulation of active Cdc42 in NDRG1-deficient cells. Live cell imaging using a fluorescent sensor that binds to polymerized actin revealed that NDRG1-deficient cells have restricted actin dynamics, thereby affecting cell migration. These cellular and molecular characteristics are in sharp contrast to what is expected after loss of a metastasis suppressor. We further demonstrate that NDRG1-deficient cells have increased resistance to anoikis and increased invasiveness which is independent of its elevated Cdc42 activity. Furthermore, NDRG1 regulates expression and glycosylation of EMMPRIN, a master regulator of matrix metalloproteases. NDRG1 deficiency leads to an increase in EMMPRIN expression with a concomitant increase in matrix metalloproteases and thus invadopodial activity. Using a three-dimensional invasion assay and an in vivo metastasis assay for human prostate xenografts, we demonstrate that NDRG1-deficient prostate cancer cells exhibit a collective invasion phenotype and are highly invasive. Thus, our findings provide novel insights suggesting that loss of NDRG1 leads to a decrease in actin-mediated cellular motility but an increase in cellular invasion, resulting in increased tumor dissemination which positively impacts metastatic outcome.
Abstract 2055: Therapeutic resistance to BET bromodomain inhibition in prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men and a leading cause of cancer-related death in North America. Current therapies include radical prostatectomy and radiotherapy for localized disease, and androgen deprivation therapy (i.e. surgical or medical castration) for metastatic disease. Recently, we described the use of inhibitors of bromodomain and extraterminal (BET) proteins for the treatment of castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), which have since undergone investigation in clinical trials. In anticipation of patients refractory to treatment with BET inhibitors, we explored the development of resistance to a clinical-grade BET inhibitor in four cell line models—VCaP, LNCaP, LNCaP-AR, and 22Rv1—by serially passaging cells in increasing concentrations of drug with matched controls in DMSO. All resistance models displayed several-fold increased IC50 values relative to control in in vitro cell viability assays. Additionally, we have modeled resistance to BET inhibition in vivo by serially passaging cell line- and patient-derived xenografts in animals treated with BET inhibition. Interrogating these models through traditional molecular techniques and next-generation sequencing, we discovered several putative mechanisms of resistance to BET inhibition that we are currently validating in our laboratory. Note: This abstract was not presented at the meeting. Citation Format: Carl G. Engelke, Rohit Malik, Steven Kregel, Irfan A. Asangani, Kari Wilder-Romans, Xia Jiang, Xuhong Cao, Corey Speers, Arul M. Chinnaiyan. Therapeutic resistance to BET bromodomain inhibition in prostate cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2017; 2017 Apr 1-5; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 2055. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2017-2055
Determination of chemical identity and occupancy from experimental density maps.

Three basic electronic properties of molecules, electron density (ED), charge density (CD), and electrostatic potentials (ESP), are dependent on both atomic mobility and occupancy of components in the molecules. Small protein subunits may bind large macromolecular complexes with a reduced occupancy or an increased atomic mobility or both due to affinity-based functional regulation, and so may substrates, products, cofactors, ions or solvent molecule to the active sites of enzymes. A quantitative theory is presented in this study that describes the dependence of atomic functions on atomic B-factor in Fourier transforms of the corresponding maps. An application of this theory is described to an experimental ED map at 1.73-A resolution, and to an experimental CD map at 2.2-A resolution. All the three density functions are linearly proportional to occupancy when the structure factor F(000) term of Fourier transforms of experimental density maps is included. Upon application of this theory to both experimental CD and ESP maps recently reported for photosystem II-light harvesting complex II supercomplex at 3.2-A resolution, the occupancy of two extrinsic protein subunits PsbQ and PsbP is determined to be 20.4 ± 0.2%, and the negative mean ESP value of vitreous ice displaced by the supercomplex on electron scattering path is estimated to be 3% of the mean ESP value of protein α-helices.
Lung function and gas exchange

As the first step in the path for oxygen transport to the body, the response of the respiratory system is critical to maintaining an adequate level of function at high altitude. Environmental hypoxia, combined with cold and heavy exercise all contribute to considerable stress to the lung. Acute altitude exposure results in hypoxia, and a rapid and sustained increase in alveolar ventilation, with an associated fall in alveolar and arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide. In addition cardiac output and pulmonary vascular pressures also increase. These changes along with any occurring as a result of altitude illness have the potential to alter pulmonary function and gas exchange. In addition, acclimatization to hypoxia of hours to days duration results in additional physiological changes overlying the acute changes. This review explores the changes in pulmonary function, as well as changes in pulmonary gas exchange at rest or during exercise that occur within the first hours to weeks of hypoxic exposure following ascent to high altitude.
Inadequacy of Pulse Oximetry in the Catheterization Laboratory. An Exploratory Study Monitoring Respiratory Status Using Arterial Blood Gases during Cardiac Catheterization with Conscious Sedation.

Abstract Background Benzodiazepines and opioids are commonly used for conscious sedation (CS) in cardiac catheterization laboratory (CCL) patients. Both drugs are known to predispose to hypoxemia , apnea and decreased responsiveness to PCO 2 , resulting in decreased arterial pH and PO 2, as well as increased PCO2 . We want to determine the effects of CS on arterial blood gas (ABG) in CCL patient, and identify if pulse oximetry monitoring is adequate. Methods We enrolled 18 subjects undergoing elective catheterization . Measurement of ABGs at one-minute intervals was done from the moment of arterial access until case end. The results of ABGs were not available to the clinician who administered sedation. Relationships of pH, PCO 2, PaO2 and SaO2 were studied by plotting time series graphs. Significant changes were defined as pH 50 mmHg. Results No significant change in pH, PCO2, PaO2 and SaO2 was noted in 4/18 (22%) subjects. A significant drop in SaO2 was noted in 4/18 (22%). A significant change in PCO2 and/or pH was noted in 10/18 (55%) cases. Among the 16 (16/18) subjects receiving supplemental oxygen, 7 (7/18, 39%) had no drop in SaO2 , but developed respiratory acidosis . At the end of the case, 5/18 (28%) subjects had respiratory acidosis with normal PaO 2. Conclusion Significant hypercarbia and acidosis occurred frequently in this small study during CS in patients undergoing cardiac catheterization. Relying on pulse oximetry alone especially with patients on supplemental oxygen may lead to failure in detecting respiratory acidosis in a significant number of patients.
Sensitizing Singlet Fission with Perovskite Nanocrystals.

The marriage of colloidal semiconductor nanocrystals and functional organic molecules has brought unique opportunities in emerging photonic and optoelectronic applications. Traditional semiconductor nanocrystals have been widely demonstrated to initiate efficient triplet energy transfer at the nanocrystal–acene interface. Herein, we report that unlike conventional semiconductor nanocrystals, lead halide perovskite nanocrystals promote an efficient Dexter-like singlet energy transfer to surface-anchored pentacene molecules rather than triplet energy transfer. Subsequently, molecular pentacene triplets are efficiently generated via singlet fission on the nanocrystal surface. Our demonstrated strategy not only unveils the obscure energy dynamics between perovskite nanocrystal and acenes, but also brings important perspectives of utilizing singlet fission throughout the solar spectrum.
Practice Characteristics Associated with Better Implementation of Patient Self-Management Support.

Background Advanced primary care models emphasize patient-centered care, including self-management support (SMS). This study aimed to promote the translation of SMS into primary care practices and reported on key baseline practice characteristics that may impact SMS implementation. Methods Thirty-six practices in Colorado and California participated in the study from December 2013 to March 2017. Practice administrators completed a Practice Information Form describing practice characteristics. Clinicians and staff (n = 716) completed the Practice Culture Assessment and the Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) Monitor. Descriptive statistics were computed to determine practice characteristics related to culture, quality improvement, level of PCMH, and SMS implementation. Field notes and key informant interviews provided contextual details about practices. Iterative qualitative analyses identified important facilitators and barriers and change capabilities around SMS implementation. Results In bivariate analyses, rural locations, fewer uncontrolled patients with diabetes, higher Medicaid or uninsured populations, underserved designation, and higher level of "PCMHness" were associated with greater reported implementation of patient SMS (all P Conclusions Careful attention-and action-on key practice characteristics and context may create more favorable initial conditions for practice change efforts to improve SMS in primary care practices.
Towards Design Decisions for Genetic Algorithms in Clock Tree Synthesis

Binary clock tree (BCT) synthesis fundamentally depends on the quality of the process of merging pairs. Selecting the optimal merging nodes is computationally expensive, even using heuristic methods. This paper presents an automated synthesis approach based on genetic algorithms (GA), that reduces the search effort for feasible node pair selection. Insights and best practices are presented for using GA processes for generating BCTs that evolve over time. BCTs synthesized with this GA approach are demonstrated experimentally with HSPICE simulations. Furthermore, the impact of utilizing a human-in-the-loop in this GA process for merging pair selection is analyzed methodically. The outcome is a best-practices approach towards automating the synthesis of BCTs based on the proposed GA approach.
Specificity of Strength Changes of the Exercised and Nonexercised Limb following Isometric Training

(1963). Specificity of Strength Changes of the Exercised and Nonexercised Limb following Isometric Training. Research Quarterly. American Association for Health, Physical Education and Recreation: Vol. 34, No. 1, pp. 98-101.
A Secure Control Learning Framework for Cyber-Physical Systems under Sensor Attacks

In this paper, we develop a learning-based secure control framework for cyber-physical systems in the presence of sensor attacks. Specifically, we use several observer-based estimators to detect the attacks while also introducing a threat detection level function. We then solve the underlying joint state estimation and attack mitigation problems by using a reinforcement learning algorithm. Finally, an illustrative numerical example is provided to show the efficacy of the proposed framework.
Predicting the Formation of Sulfur-Based Brønsted Acids from the Reactions of SOx with H2O and H2S.

We have performed an extensive computational investigation of the potential energy surfaces for the reactions of SOx (x = 2 or 3) with H2S and H2O in the gas phase and in aqueous solution at the CCSD(T)/CBS level of theory plus a self-consistent reaction field approach. Formation of a gas-phase H2SO4 from the hydrolysis of SO3 at lower temperatures requires the presence of additional water molecules. When additional waters are introduced, the barrier for H2SO4 formation is significantly reduced, and a barrierless transition occurs with only three excess waters as well as in aqueous solution. In a mixture of H2O, H2S, and SO3, formation of H2S2O3 has a lower barrier in the gas phase than does the formation of H2SO4. In aqueous solution, no barrier is predicted, and both are likely to be formed. Introduction of an additional water to the SO3 + H2S reaction results in a decrease in barrier height, nearly identical to the ∼18 kcal/mol catalytic effect of the first additional water in SO3 hydrolysis, with the barrier for H2S2O3 formation disappearing altogether in aqueous solution. Formation of H2SO3 by the way of SO2 hydrolysis is unlikely. Excess waters reduce the barrier for SO2 hydrolysis; however, the overall endothermicity is increased as waters are added. The formation of H2S2O2 from SO2 and H2S via an isostructural pathway to SO2 hydrolysis is unlikely, with additional water molecules resulting in a small increase in the overall endothermicity and a catalytic effect smaller than that observed for the SO3 reactions. The results of this work have implications pertaining to the formation of H2SO4, H2S2O3, H2SO3, and H2S2O2 in the atmospheres of Earth and Venus. These results also question the existence of H2S2O2 as an intermediate in the Claus process.
Crystallization kinetics of rapid spray plasma processed multiple cation perovskites in open air

Rapid Spray Plasma Processing (RSPP) is a high throughput, scalable, and open-air route toward manufacturing perovskite solar modules. The plasma exposure is dosed such that the perovskite precursor solution is cured in milliseconds using a combination of rapid heating, reactive species, and UV photons. We implemented in situ wide angle X-ray scattering (WAXS) to characterize the crystal growth in multiple cation, mixed halide perovskite thin films—Csx(MAzFA1−z)1−xPb(Br0.17I0.83)3 for 0.05 ≤ x ≤ 0.25—fabricated in open air. The use of synchrotron radiation and high detector speeds resolved the formation and dissolution of a transient intermediate crystalline phase during the tens of milliseconds when the perovskite crystallized. Increasing the mole fraction of cesium and methylammonium resulted in a decrease in the intermediate phase and an increase in the average grain diameter. Increasing the cesium fraction suppressed phase segregation, as observed in photoluminescence. Calculations showed the refractive index decreased and the extinction coefficient increased with cesium fraction. Based on the rapid crystallization kinetics, RSPP perovskite films exhibit residual stress values >5× lower than spin coated films. Understanding the kinetics of perovskite formation enables the design of perovskite films with improved thermomechanical and operational stability.
Bounded Verification of Sparse Matrix Computations

We show how to model and reason about the structure and behavior of sparse matrices, which are central to many applications in scientific computation. Our approach is state-based, relying on a formalism called Alloy to show that one model is a refinement of another. We present examples of sparse matrix-vector multiplication, transpose, and translation between formats using ELLPACK and compressed sparse row formats to demonstrate the approach. To model matrix computations in a declarative language like Alloy, a new idiom is presented for bounded iteration with incremental updates. Mechanical verification is performed using SAT solvers built into the tool.
An Interview with Joan Slonczewski

This interview illuminates Slonczewski’s scientific and fictional fields of interest—microbes in particular, humanity and its future prospects in general, science fiction as a literary genre, and her own fiction. Topics range across issues from the microbiome and probiotics to symbiosis, extremophile metabolisms, and the corporate medical complex. Slonczewski practices a particularly humane variety of the posthuman imaginary. Socioeconomic disparities and ethnic tensions are primary players in her biopolitical scenarios, but may be overridden by the creation of spiritual mutuality. Slonczewski distinguishes her work from the cyberpunk trends contemporary with her writing of the Elysium Cycle. She addresses the recurrent theological themes in her fiction, discusses her most recent novel, The Highest Frontier, and drops some hints about its eventual sequel.
Auricular acupuncture for the treatment of nonepileptic seizures: A pilot study

Abstract Objective The aim of this pilot study was to examine the safety and tolerability of an eight-week treatment of twice weekly auricular acupuncture as a therapeutic intervention for the treatment of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES). The secondary aim was to determine if auricular acupuncture was effective at reducing PNES event frequency. Psychogenic nonepileptic seizures are as common as multiple sclerosis and are highly resistant to intervention. Unfortunately, there is no standard of care therapy, although mental health treatment referrals are commonly made. Acupuncture is felt to be a safe and cost-effective treatment for many diseases and symptoms including mental health disorders such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and conversion disorders. We propose to examine auricular acupuncture as a treatment for PNES. Methods A single-center, 16-week trial of auricular acupuncture was designed: a four-week baseline period, followed by an eight-week active treatment period during which subjects received twice weekly auricular acupuncture, then followed by a four-week washout period. Tolerability was defined as completion of 12 of 16 treatments. Successful compliance with seizure diary was defined as > 80%, or 100 of 120 days completed. Safety profile was established and seizure count per week was also calculated. Results A total of 29 subjects enrolled from a consecutive sample of 73 PNES diagnoses discharging from our epilepsy unit. Twenty-two subjects entered the study with 91% completing more than 12 of 16 treatments, 91% meeting the endpoint of completing > 80% of diary entries. Adverse events were mild, and only two subjects were withdrawn due to increased PNES frequency. Although short-term in design, using one-way repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA), we observed a statistically significant reduction in seizure count from baseline at treatment month one, treatment month two, and at the washout period (p = 0.0083). Eleven of 12 subjects (52.3%) who received at least one treatment recorded a 50% frequency reduction. Three of 21 subjects (14%) were PNES-free at the end of the study. Significance Auricular acupuncture is well-tolerated in a population with PNES and exhibits similar event frequency reductions as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). We believe that this is the first literature report examining auricular acupuncture for the treatment of PNES.
Standardization of clinical care pathway leads to sustained decreased length of stay following Nuss Pectus repair: a multidisciplinary quality improvement initiative

Abstract Background and purpose Postoperatively, standardized clinical care pathways (SCCPs) help patients reach necessary milestones for discharge. The objective of this study was to achieve 90% compliance with a pectus specific SCCP within 9 months of implementation. We hypothesized that adherence to a pectus SCCP following the Nuss procedure would decrease postsurgical length of stay (LOS). Methods A multidisciplinary team implemented the pectus SCCP, including goals for mobility, lung recruitment, pain control, intake, and output. The full protocol included 42 components, tracked using chart reviews and a patient-directed checklist. The primary process measure was compliance with the pectus SCCP. The primary outcome measure was LOS; secondary outcomes were patient charges, patient satisfaction, and hospital readmission. Results Total study patients were n = 509: 159 patients pre-intervention, 350 patients post-intervention (80 implementation group; 270 sustain group). SCCP compliance data were collected on 164 patients post-intervention — 80 implementation, 84 sustain. LOS, ED visits, and hospital readmissions were recorded for all 509 patients. Mean LOS decreased from 4.5 days to 3.4 days, with > 90% adherence to the pectus SCCP postintervention. There were no readmissions owing to pain despite earlier termination of epidural analgesia. Total patient charges decreased by 30% and patient satisfaction was high. Conclusion Using quality improvement methodology with strict adherence to a pectus SCCP, we had significant reduction in LOS and patient charge without compromising effective postoperative pain management or patient satisfaction. Type of study Clinical research; quality improvement. Level of evidence V.
Using Multiple Measures of Teaching Quality to Strengthen Teacher Preparation

We argue that teacher preparation programs considering approaches to assess teaching quality should choose measures that appropriately represent the complexity of teaching, have formative value in supporting teacher candidates develop as highly qualified teachers and consider the context, mission, and people that the program desires to serve. The authors are part of a research team working with an urban teacher residency program housed in a university’s teacher education program. The increased focus on clinical experience and mandated accountability that accompany federal grants created a fertile space to experiment with different types of measures and data collection approaches, well beyond what is typical in traditional teacher education programs. In this essay, we discuss the philosophy and considerations that informed the selection of these measures in the program, and the processes that were followed to use this data in ways that consider the complexity of teaching and honor the value of data as a tool for program improvement.
Heuristics associated with forecasting chaotic events: a rare cognitive ability

Chaos is a mathematical phenomenon in which seemingly random events are actually predictable by simple deterministic equations. Chaos has been identified in numerous situations requiring humans’ si...