cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mutational Evidence for a Functional Connection between Two Domains of 23S rRNA in Translation Termination

Nucleotide 1093 in domain II of Escherichia coli 23S rRNA is part of a highly conserved structure historically referred to as the GTPase center. The mutation G1093A was previously shown to cause readthrough of nonsense codons and high temperature-conditional lethality. Defects in translation termination caused by this mutation have also been demonstrated in vitro. To identify sites in 23S rRNA that may be functionally associated with the G1093 region during termination, we selected for secondary mutations in 23S rRNA that would compensate for the temperature-conditional lethality caused by G1093A. Here we report the isolation and characterization of such a secondary mutation. The mutation is a deletion of two consecutive nucleotides from helix 73 in domain V, close to the peptidyltransferase center. The deletion results in a shortening of the CGCG sequence between positions 2045 and 2048 by two nucleotides to CG. In addition to restoring viability in the presence of G1093A, this deletion dramatically decreased readthrough of UGA nonsense mutations caused by G1093A. An analysis of the amount of mutant rRNA in polysomes revealed that this decrease cannot be explained by an inability of G1093A-containing rRNA to be incorporated into polysomes. Furthermore, the deletion was found to cause UGA readthrough on its own, thereby implicating helix 73 in termination for the first time. These results also indicate the existence of a functional connection between the G1093 region and helix 73 during translation termination.
Integrated planning and image-guided control for planar needle steering

Flexible, tip-steerable needles promise to enhance physicianspsila abilities to accurately reach targets and maneuver inside the human body while minimizing patient trauma. Here, we present a functional needle steering system that integrates two components: (1) a patient-specific 2D pre- and intraoperative planner that finds an achievable route to a target within a planar slice of tissue (Stochastic Motion Roadmap), and (2) a low-level image-guided feedback controller that keeps the needle tip within that slice. The planner generates a sequence of circular arcs that can be realized by interleaving pure insertions with 180deg rotations of the needle shaft. This pre-planned sequence is updated in realtime at regular intervals. Concurrently, the low-level image-based controller servos the needle to remain close to the desired plane between plan updates. Both planner and controller are predicated on a previously developed kinematic nonholonomic model of beveltip needle steering. We use slighly different needles here that have a small bend near the tip, so we extend the model to account for discontinuities of the tip position caused by 180deg rotations. Further, during large rotations of the needle base, we maintain the desired tip angle by compensating for torsional compliance in the needle shaft, neglected in previous needle steering work. By integrating planning, control, and torsion compensation, we demonstrate both accurate targeting and obstacle avoidance.
Misaligned protoplanetary disks in a young binary star system

Many extrasolar planets follow orbits that differ from the nearly coplanar and circular orbits found in our Solar System; their orbits may be eccentric or inclined with respect to the host star’s equator, and the population of giant planets orbiting close to their host stars suggests appreciable orbital migration. There is at present no consensus on what produces such orbits. Theoretical explanations often invoke interactions with a binary companion star in an orbit that is inclined relative to the planet’s orbital plane. Such mechanisms require significant mutual inclinations between the planetary and binary star orbital planes. The protoplanetary disks in a few young binaries are misaligned, but often the measurements of these misalignments are sensitive only to a small portion of the inner disk, and the three-dimensional misalignment of the bulk of the planet-forming disk mass has hitherto not been determined. Here we report that the protoplanetary disks in the young binary system HK Tauri are misaligned by 60 to 68 degrees, such that one or both of the disks are significantly inclined to the binary orbital plane. Our results demonstrate that the necessary conditions exist for misalignment-driven mechanisms to modify planetary orbits, and that these conditions are present at the time of planet formation, apparently because of the binary formation process.
Exceeding the limits of liver histology markers.

Background/Aims Alternatives to liver biopsy for staging liver disease caused by hepatitis C virus (HCV) have not appeared accurate enough for widespread clinical use. We characterized the magnitude of the impact of error in the "gold standard" on the observed diagnostic accuracy of surrogate markers. Methods We calculated the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) for a surrogate marker against the gold standard (biopsy) for a range of possible performances of each test (biopsy and marker) against truth and a gradient of clinically significant disease prevalence. Results In the ‘best' scenario where liver biopsy accuracy is highest (sensitivity and specificity of biopsy are 90%) and the prevalence of significant disease 40%, the calculated AUROC would be 0.90 for a perfect marker (99% actual accuracy) which is within the range of what has already been observed. With lower biopsy sensitivity and specificity, AUROC determinations >0.90 could not be achieved even for a marker that perfectly measured disease. Conclusions We demonstrate that error in the liver biopsy result itself makes it impossible to distinguish a perfect surrogate from ones that are now judged by some as clinically unacceptable. An alternative gold standard is needed to assess the accuracy of tests used to stage HCV-related liver disease.
A new route to organic nanotubes from porphyrin dendrimers.

The controlled synthesis of discrete nanostructures is an exciting challenge that remains the cornerstone of the bottom-up approach. In this regard, considerable effort has been directed toward nanotubes. Within the last decade, numerous reports have described the synthesis and properties of carbon (single-walled andmulti-walled nanotubes (SWNTs and MWNTs, respectively)),[1] inorganic,[2] and non-fullerene organic nanotubes.[3] In particular, organic nanotubes have been synthesized from oligopeptides,[4] oligosaccharides,[5] block copolymers,[6] and a variety of other organic building blocks.[7] Many of these nanotubes, however, are formed as noncovalent assemblies and are, thus, stable only under specific conditions. Herein we report a core–shell approach[8] to covalent organic nanotubes by molding dendritic building blocks around an oligoporphyrin core.
Challenges and advances in electrical interconnect analysis

The authors review key issues regarding electrical interconnect analysis (EIA) for VLSI parasitic circuits. They give a general introduction to important aspects for technologies with a variety of performances and then review some issues relating to the state of the art for high-performance chips and packages. For high-performance technologies, the state-of-the-art tools leave a lot to be desired. The methods of choice for EIA are integral formulations like the method of moments or circuit-based techniques because the regions to be analyzed are usually open. Circuit based formulations like the rPEEC (retarded partial element equivalent circuit) approach are advantageous because they can be combined with other circuit models like transistors and because they can be used in the time and frequency domains. An example of a trace on a printed circuit board driven by a standard TTL 74F04 inverter chip is included. >
Optimizing the third-order optical susceptibility of Pt-doped BaTiO/sub 3/ grown by combustion chemical vapor deposition

Optimization of the nonlinear optical properties of metal nano-cluster films imbedded in a nonlinear host is demonstrated using combustion chemical vapor deposition and subsequent Z-scan analysis.
Bladder Cancer Screening in a High Risk Asymptomatic Population Using a Point of Care Urine Based Protein Tumor Marker

Purpose: We evaluated whether screening high risk asymptomatic individuals with a bladder tumor marker can lead to earlier detection and resultant down staging of bladder cancer.Materials and Methods: Subjects at high risk for bladder cancer based on age and smoking or occupational status were solicited from 2 well patient clinics from March 2006 to November 2007. NMP22® BladderChek® testing was performed on voided urine samples. Those with positive test results underwent office cystoscopy and cytology testing. Participants were contacted for followup at 12 months after study enrollment to evaluate for unrecognized bladder cancer.Results: A total of 1,175 men and 327 women underwent BladderChek testing. Mean participant age was 62.5 years (range 46 to 92). Based on 10-year or greater smoking history 1,298 participants were enrolled while 513 were enrolled based on a greater than 15-year high risk occupation for bladder cancer. Positive BladderChek testing was observed in 85 (5.7%) participants and 69 agre...
When the Heavenly Gaze Criminalises: Satellite Surveillance, Land Clearance Regulation and the Human-Nature Relationship

(2005). When The Heavenly Gaze Criminalises: Satellite Surveillance, Land Clearance Regulation and the Human-Nature Relationship. Current Issues in Criminal Justice: Vol. 16, No. 3, pp. 322-339.
Le rôle de l’auriculothérapie en anesthésie et dans le traitement de la douleur

Resume L’auriculotherapie est reconnue comme une technique adjuvante de la pratique medicale par l’OMS. Elle est enseignee dans le cadre d’un diplome inter-universitaire en France. Il existe plusieurs domaines d’application dans le cadre de la medecine perioperatoire qui devraient faire l’objet d’investigations cliniques pour en demontrer le benefice.
Development of Neutral-Density Infrared Filters Using Metallic Thin Films

Broadband infrared filters with uniform spectral transmittance are used for spectrometer calibration and other applications. However, commercially available neutral-density filters with optical density (GD) greater than 2 exhibit significant variations in OD over the wavelength region from 2 μm to 25 μ m. In this work, we found a single-layer alloy film that, for appropriate thicknesses, yields a flat transmittance for OD near 3 and 4. The transmittance and reflectance of the filters were measured using a Fourier-transform infrared spectrometer. The optical constants of the alloy films were obtained from transmittance and reflectance measurements, which can be used for future design optimization.
Area-Wide Population Dynamics of Platynota idaeusalis (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) in Southcentral Pennsylvania Pome and Stone Fruits

Larval and egg mass sampling along with a sex pheromone trap grid consisting of 105 traps spaced 200 by 140 m apart were used to study the population biology of the tortricid, Platynota idaeusalis (Walker), among pome and stone fruits in Adams County, Pa. Overwintering and summer populations were found beneath apple, pear, peach, and cherry on a wide variety of herbaceous plant species, especially Taraxacum officinalis, Rumex obtusifolius , and root suckers. In apple, larvae were found overwintering primarily beneath the tree canopy within 2 m of the trunk. Significantly more first-brood larval shelters were found on apple than on cherry, peach, or pear. However, the highest density of second-brood egg masses and male trap counts were found in cherry. No differences were found in second-brood egg mass density among five of the six apple cultivars sampled. Significantly higher fruit injury levels were found for ‘Yorking’ and ‘Rome Beauty’ than for ‘Delicious’, ‘Golden Delicious’, ‘Stayman’, and ‘Jonathan’. Fewer moths were caught in pheromone traps placed in fields and wooded sites than in orchards. Recapture of marked moths demonstrated that males moved throughout the study site.
Theology of Marginalization

This chapter employs Jung Young Lee’s theology of marginalization to examine the relationship between the margins and the center or, more specifically, how Psy’s “Gangnam Style” became popular without attempting to cross over from the margins to the center. Psy’s music video, originally intended for consumption by native South Koreans, became widespread via the Internet. Hence, “Gangnam Style” is made available the world over without translation or reinvention and, as a result, provides us with multiple sites of creativity and ingenuity.
Extended Kalman filter-aided alignment control for maintaining line of sight in optical communication

Light-emitting diode (LED)-based optical communication is emerging as a low-power, low-cost and high-data rate alternative to acoustic communication. However, it requires a close-to-line-of-sight link between the transmitter and the receiver. Alignment for maintaining line of sight is challenging due to the constant movement of the underlying mobile platform that is caused by unwanted disturbances and/or the propulsion. In this work we propose a novel extended Kalman filter (EKF)-based alignment algorithm, which estimates the relative orientation between the receiver and the transmitter based on the received light intensity, and uses the latter to adjust the scanning motion of the receiver. The scanning pattern is designed such that the rank condition for EKF convergence is satisfied. The efficacy of the proposed estimation and control scheme is illustrated with simulation results and preliminary experimental results.
Recent Advances in Fluid–Structure Interaction Simulations of Wind Turbines

In this chapter the numerical challenges of simulating aerodynamics and fluid–structure interaction (FSI) of wind turbines are summarized, and the recently developed computational methods that address these challenges are presented. Several wind-turbine computations at full scale and with full complexity of the geometry and material composition are presented, which illustrate the accuracy, robustness, and general applicability of the methods developed for this problem class.
A Framework of Relational Information Control: A Review and Extension of Information Control Research in Interpersonal Contexts

Research on information control in interpersonal contexts has grown in the last 30 years. Scholars have considered multiple manifestations of information control, including taboo topics, topic avoidance, privacy, and secrecy, as ways individuals withhold information. This paper reviews and presents limitations of the extant literature, including conflating different manifestations, privileging explicit acts, and presuming agency. The paper then addresses these limitations by proposing a new framework that articulates a process and typology of information control in relationships. The typology departs from existing research to categorize information control based on the perspectives of the sender and receiver. In so doing, the framework organizes several strands of research to offer a comprehensive approach to the study of information control in interpersonal contexts.
Realization of high-current variable AC filter inductors using silicon iron powder magnetic core

Low-pass filter inductors are widely used in grid-connected power electronic converters. Different magnetic core materials are available for building these inductors. In this paper, the design of an inductor for an industrial-scale 1 MVA high-power three-phase ac-dc converter is reported. Selection of the core material, which depends on trading off between several aspects, is described. Instead of the traditional fixed inductance value for a large current range, the powder core inductor has a nonlinear inductance characteristic which is inversely proportional to the magnetic excitation. The benefits of using this variable inductance characteristic are described and verified by both circuit and magnetic simulation tools. A hardware prototype was built and initial experimental results are illustrated.
NDN-trace: a path tracing utility for named data networking

In this paper we propose NDN-Trace, a path tracing utility to determine the characteristics of the available paths to reach a given name prefix in NDN-based networks. While the traceroute tool in IP networks is based on an iterative process, with each iteration incrementally traversing more hops along the path to the target, we adopt a non-iterative approach, with the tracing process done at the application layer. Our design supports multi-path tracing that can be used to trace paths to NDN forwarding nodes, applications, or content store caches, while providing path information (node identifiers and round-trip times), as well as optional metrics such as those related to content stores. NDN-Trace leverages NDN's native Interest/Data exchange and does not require changes to NDN forwarding. We present a C++ implementation of our design, and show experimental results that demonstrate its capabilities. We also discuss open issues and future work, including an approach to implement path tracing within the NDN forwarder itself.
A Demonstration of Le Chatelier's Principle on the Nanoscale.

Photothermal desorption of molecules from plasmonic nanoparticles is an example of a light-triggered molecular release due to heating of the system. However, this phenomenon ought to work only if the molecule–nanoparticle interaction is exothermic in nature. In this study, we compare protein adsorption behavior onto gold nanoparticles for both endothermic and exothermic complexation reactions, and demonstrate that Le Chatelier’s principle can be applied to predict protein adsorption or desorption on nanomaterial surfaces. Polyelectrolyte-wrapped gold nanorods were used as adsorption platforms for two different proteins, which we were able to adsorb/desorb from the nanorod surface depending on the thermodynamics of their interactions. Furthermore, we show that the behaviors hold up under more complex biological environments such as fetal bovine serum.
Fatigue Behavior and Modeling of Additively Manufactured Ti-6Al-4V Including Interlayer Time Interval Effects

The effects of different cooling rates, as achieved by varying the interlayer time interval, on the fatigue behavior of additively manufactured Ti-6Al-4V specimens were investigated and modeled via a microstructure-sensitive fatigue model. Comparisons are made between two sets of specimens fabricated via Laser Engineered Net Shaping (LENS™), with variance in interlayer time interval accomplished by depositing either one or two specimens per print operation. Fully reversed, strain-controlled fatigue tests were conducted, with fractography following specimen failure. A microstructure-sensitive fatigue model was calibrated to model the fatigue behavior of both sets of specimens and was found to be capable of correctly predicting the longer fatigue lives of the single-built specimens and the reduced scatter of the double-built specimens; all data points fell within the predicted upper and lower bounds of fatigue life. The time interval effects and the ability to be modeled are important to consider when producing test specimens that are smaller than the production part (i.e., property–performance relationships).
Modeling Concurrent Manufacturing Systems Using Petri Nets

A Computer-Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) System is complex, with distributive data, concurrent, and interacting processes. Individual processes can be carried out concurrently at each workstation under the control of a host computer. Petri Nets is a powerful tool for modeling and analysis of asynchronous, concurrent systems which exhibits synchronization and contention for shared resources, making it suitable for application to CIM systems. This paper discusses modeling, analysis, and performance evaluation of CIM systems using petri Nets. An application of Generalized Stochastic Petri Net model to a Computer-Integrated Assembly Cell is illustrated.
Hole-Transfer Dependence on Blend Morphology and Energy Level Alignment in Polymer: ITIC Photovoltaic Materials

Bulk-heterojunction organic photovoltaic materials containing nonfullerene acceptors (NFAs) have seen remarkable advances in the past year, finally surpassing fullerenes in performance. Indeed, acceptors based on indacenodithiophene (IDT) have become synonymous with high power conversion efficiencies (PCEs). Nevertheless, NFAs have yet to achieve fill factors (FFs) comparable to those of the highest-performing fullerene-based materials. To address this seeming anomaly, this study examines a high efficiency IDT-based acceptor, ITIC, paired with three donor polymers known to achieve high FFs with fullerenes, PTPD3T, PBTI3T, and PBTSA3T. Excellent PCEs up to 8.43% are achieved from PTPD3T:ITIC blends, reflecting good charge transport, optimal morphology, and efficient ITIC to PTPD3T hole-transfer, as observed by femtosecond transient absorption spectroscopy. Hole-transfer is observed from ITIC to PBTI3T and PBTSA3T, but less efficiently, reflecting measurably inferior morphology and nonoptimal energy level alignment, resulting in PCEs of 5.34% and 4.65%, respectively. This work demonstrates the importance of proper morphology and kinetics of ITIC → donor polymer hole-transfer in boosting the performance of polymer:ITIC photovoltaic bulk heterojunction blends.
Systematic Errors in High Latitude Astronavigation

In polar astronavigation, refraction corrections have always been an important concern. Whatever the magnitude of the error in a refraction value, the error has been expected to remain essentially constant during a given series of observations (a series being defined as consecutive observations on a single celestial body taken in a relatively short time span). Based on this expectation, Hussain suggested assuming that each series of observations contains a constant (systematic) error and that this error could be determined as part of a least squares solution for the latitude and longitude. The proposed modification would solve for several unknowns (latitude, longitude, and corrections to the refraction values in a series). To evaluate this idea, the writer develops a procedure for predicting the accuracy of the various viewing configurations used. For this investigation, this procedure was modified to also solve for the accuracy of the systematic corrections. Tables are presented showing the results of both methods. The Hussain idea has limitations in terms of obtainable accuracies; the modified version is shown to be usable for the reduction and analysis of high latitude astronavigation observations and fixes.
Implications of Neutron Star Mergers for Extraterrestrial Civilizations

The economy and fate of extraterrestrial civilizations should depend on the abundance of gold and uranium, made in neutron star mergers.
Acute Exacerbations of COPD: Methods and Role of Microbiology

Diagnosis of an acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AE/COPD) provides little guidance as to the appropriate therapy for the individual patient presenting with this syndrome. The problem is that the clinical presentation characteristic of acute exacerbation is not distinctive for a specific etiology. In addition, any single patient with COPD may have chronic bronchitis (CB), chronic bronchial asthma (CBA), pulmonary emphysema (CPE), or a combination of these upon which the AE is superimposed. Faced with this dilemma, many clinicians prefer to use COPD and avoid making the specific diagnoses. The occurrence of an AE in this setting now requires another “best guess” as to specific etiology, or to treat to cover the more common etiologies for the AE. The proper assessment of acute exacerbations is not assisted by using COPD as a description of the underlying bronchopulmonary disease. COPD is not a disease with a defined pathologic basis, but rather is a description of a physiologic abnormality common to many pathophysiologically different diseases. Although the three predominant diseases under COPD often co-exist in individual patients, specific therapeutic treatment for the individual patient depends on defining the role each play in the individual patient. A specific diagnosis is particularly important to the patient who only has CB, or CBA, or CPE. Despite the increasing knowledge of the important pathophysiologic differences in bronchial receptors and the inflammatory processes between CB and CBA, the shotgun approach to treatment at the clinical level remains popular.
Restriction Enzyme Analysis in the Epidemiology of Listeria Monocytogenes

Listeria monocytogenes is a foodborne bacterial pathogen which is transmitted to humans via consumption of dairy products and vegetables. The purpose of this study was to examine the genetic diversity of L. monocytogenes by restriction enzyme analysis and to localize the hemolysin gene by hybridization with a synthetic oligomer specific for the β-hemolysin (β- listeriolysin) toxin gene. Reference strains of serotypes 1A (1/2A), IB (1/2B), 1C (1/2C), 3A, 3B, 3C, 4A, 4B, 4AB, 4C, 4D, and 4E and 39 isolates obtained from food and clinical specimens were serotyped and genomic DNA analyzed for restriction enzyme patterns. Three groups of isolates were examined: two groups were derived from environmental samples and food products, and unrelated sporadic clinical cases. The third set consisted of isolates recovered during the recent listeriosis outbreak in Los Angeles County, California. Isolates were identified as serogroup 1A (factor 1) or as serotype 4B (factor 6). Reference strains exhibited a distinct electro- phoretic pattern after Hha 1 digestion. Isolates assigned to the same serotype exhibited different restriction patterns after Hha 1 digestion. However, when restriction fragments were blotted using the Southern method and probed with a synthetic oligonucleotide specific for the β-hemolysin gene, hybridization occurred with a limited number of restriction fragments. Ten strains recovered from Mexican-style soft cheese incriminated in the California listeriosis outbreak were antigenically identified as serogroup 4B (factor 6). All 10 strains exhibited identical restriction patterns after cleavage with Hha I. Only a single restriction fragment (0.9 kb) hybridized with the β-hemolysin gene probe. This suggests a common contaminating source of Listeria for the cheese samples examined.
A General Wide-Range Fundamental Equation for Cryogenic Fluids

The fundamental equation described in this chapter is a general form used for the calculation of properties of a large number of fluids. Although the original references reporting the equations of state for cryogenic fluids use a wide variety of equation formats, the equations have been transformed to the fundamental form of Jacobsen et al. 38 given in Section 2.2. Details of the implementation of this equation as a generalized form for cryogenic fluids follow.
Randomized Backtrack Search

Randomized search methods have greatly extended our ability to solve hard computational problems. In general, however, we think of randomization in the context of local search. While local search methods have proved to be very powerful, in some situations they cannot supplant complete or exact methods due to their inherent limitation: Local search methods cannot prove inconsistency or optimality.
Ionizing radiation stimulates octamer factor DNA binding activity in human carcinoma cells.

In mammalian cells, the octamer motif (ATGCAAAT) binding proteins, Oct-1 and Oct-2, play an important role in the transcriptional transactivation of several ubiquitously expressed genes as well as cell-specifically expressed genes. To date, a role of the octamer binding proteins in damage-stimulated response is not known. In this report, we demonstrate that DNA-binding activity of Oct-1, as demonstrated by the electrophoretic mobility shift assay, is significantly induced in a dose-dependent manner upon treatment of human head and neck squamous carcinoma cells (PCI-04A) with ionizing radiation (5 Gy: 5-fold; 15 Gy: 11-fold). By comparison, activities of other transcription factors were modestly increased (15 Gy: AP-1, 2.5-fold; NF-κB, 2.6-fold; SP-1, 5-fold). Radiation stimulation of Oct-1 activity was also noted in two other human cancer cell lines, albeit to a lesser extent (MDA-MB231 breast carcinoma cells and PC-3 prostate carcinoma cells (5 Gy: ∼ 2-fold). These data represent the first report of the activation of an octamer factor DNA binding activity in response to environmental cues and suggest a novel role of Oct-1 in the radiation signaling cascade in these cancer cells.
Aging-Related Calcium Dysregulation in Rat Entorhinal Neurons Homologous with the Human Entorhinal Neurons in which Alzheimer's Disease Neurofibrillary Tangles First Appear.

Aging is the leading risk factor for idiopathic Alzheimer’s disease (AD), indicating that normal aging processes promote AD and likely are present in the neurons in which AD pathogenesis originates. In AD, neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) appear first in entorhinal cortex, implying that aging processes in entorhinal neurons promote NFT pathogenesis. Using electrophysiology and immunohistochemistry, we find pronounced aging-related Ca2 + dysregulation in rat entorhinal neurons homologous with the human neurons in which NFTs originate. Considering that humans recapitulate many aspects of animal brain aging, these results support the hypothesis that aging-related Ca2 + dysregulation occurs in human entorhinal neurons and promotes NFT pathogenesis.
The Autopsy in Medical Education and Training

The teaching and practice of autopsy have been claimed to be in peril since the 1950s, encumbered by other activities that draw the attention and energy of practicing pathologists, by economic necessities, and by ever more sophisticated diagnostic methods. Until today, the competency of trainees to practice autopsy has been assessed by documenting a numerical criterion of autopsy cases performed, a method which appears to have had uneven success. Declining numbers of available autopsies and questions about the relevance of the autopsy to the practice of newly graduated pathologists have raised the question whether autopsy competency should be assessed with less reliance on a strictly numerical criterion. An Autopsy Working Group empaneled by national stakeholder organizations showed great variation in autopsy training in US programs with respect to availability of autopsy cases of different types, level of direction and teaching, and autopsy technique. The Autopsy Working Group recommended standardization of autopsy teaching and then for the inauguration of a competency-based criterion for the assessment of autopsy skills in the form of a set of Entrustable Professional Activities for autopsy. Despite predictions of its demise for over six decades, autopsy practice has continued to evolve to meet the changing needs of medical practice. Standardization and redirection of autopsy education will help the autopsy to continue to meet those needs.
Predictors of Nasoseptal Flap Use After Endoscopic Transsphenoidal Pituitary Mass Resection.

Objective The pedicled nasoseptal flap (NSF) is the widely accepted reconstructive technique of choice for repair of larger skull base defects after endoscopic endonasal approaches. There is a dearth of literature examining the decision-making process regarding flap harvest. The objective of this study is to evaluate preoperative characteristics that predict the use of NSF reconstruction after endoscopic transsphenoidal resection of pituitary tumors. Methods In this retrospective case control study, demographic, clinical, imaging, and procedural details were gathered on all patients undergoing endoscopic transsphenoidal pituitary adenoma resection at a single academic center since January 2009. Characteristics were compared for patients receiving an NSF and those not undergoing NSF repair. A multivariate model that best predicted the use of an NSF was built and a risk score was developed. Results Two hundred thirty-eight patients were included, and 39 underwent NSF placement. Tumor size and anatomic characteristics were the predominant factors that significantly differed between cases and controls. Patients with transsellar tumor extension had 6.3 higher odds of requiring NSF, each millimeter increase in tumor height on coronal T1 magnetic resonance imaging increased the odds of NSF use by 1.2. The flap risk score (FRS) is calculated by adding tumor height (mm) to 6 if there is transsellar extension. At an FRS of >35, the FRS is 87% specific and 85% sensitive for flap placement. Conclusions Preoperative imaging characteristics can predict NSF use. The FRS can be applied by surgical teams and referring physicians to determine which patients are more likely to undergo NSF repair.
Design and Psychometric Evaluation of American Sign Language Translations of Usability Questionnaires

To promote greater inclusion of people who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) in studies conducted by Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) researchers or professionals, we have undertaken a project to formally translate several standardized usability questionnaires from English to ASL. Many deaf adults in the U.S. have lower levels of English reading literacy, but there are currently no standardized usability questionnaires available in American Sign Language (ASL) for these users. A critical concern in conducting such a translation is to ensure that the meaning of the original question items has been preserved during translation, as well as other key psychometric properties of the instrument, including internal reliability, criterion validity, and construct validity. After identifying best-practices for such a translation and evaluation project, a bilingual team of domain experts (including native ASL signers who are members of the Deaf community) translated the System Usability Scale (SUS) and Net Promoter Score (NPS) instruments into ASL and then conducted back-translation evaluations to assess the faithfulness of the translation. The new ASL instruments were employed in usability tests with DHH participants, to assemble a dataset of response scores, in support of the psychometric validation. We are disseminating these translated instruments, as well as collected response values from DHH participants, to encourage greater participation in HCI studies among DHH users.
Delineating the effects of hot-melt extrusion on the performance of a polymeric film using artificial neural networks and an evolutionary algorithm.

Abstract The aim of this study was to utilize an artificial neural network (ANN) in conjunction with an evolutionary algorithm to investigate the relationship between hot melt extrusion (HME) process parameters and vaginal film performance. Investigated HME process parameters were: barrel temperature, screw speed, and feed rate. Investigated film performance attributes were: percent dissolution at 30 min, puncture strength, and drug content. An ANN model was successfully developed and validated with a root mean squared error of 0.043 and 0.098 for training and validation, respectively. Of all three assessed process parameters, the model revealed that barrel temperature has a significant impact on film performance. An increase in barrel temperature resulted in increased dissolution and punctures strength and decreased drug content. Additionally, a successful implementation of an evolutionary algorithm was carried out in order to demonstrate the potential applicability of the developed ANN model in film formulation optimization. In this analysis, the values predicted of film performance attributes were within 1% error of the experimental data. The findings of this study provide a quantitative framework to understand the relationship between HME parameters and film performance. This quantitative framework has the potential to be used for film formulation development and optimization.
Modeling and Analysis of Near-Field Radiated Emission in Wide Bandgap Power Modules

Recent advances in wide bandgap power devices have resulted in increasing power density for power converters. Near field models of power modules are essential to design better packaging of other auxiliary circuits in a power converter. A simplified power module like structure is considered. The entire power module is then subdivided into simpler geometries and modeled separately. The overall map of near field is then obtained from these simple geometries. The result from the simulation and measurement has been compared to the modeled map to validate the model.
The Shifting Landscape of International Resettlement: Canada, the US and Syrian Refugees

The world is today in the grip of the worst forced migration crisis since the end of the Second World War, with tens of millions driven from their homes by conflict. Yet the global system meant to ...
Multimodal Learning with Incomplete Modalities by Knowledge Distillation

Multimodal learning aims at utilizing information from a variety of data modalities to improve the generalization performance. One common approach is to seek the common information that is shared among different modalities for learning, whereas we can also fuse the supplementary information to leverage modality-specific information. Though the supplementary information is often desired, most existing multimodal approaches can only learn from samples with complete modalities, which wastes a considerable amount of data collected. Otherwise, model-based imputation needs to be used to complete the missing values and yet may introduce undesired noise, especially when the sample size is limited. In this paper, we proposed a framework based on knowledge distillation, utilizing the supplementary information from all modalities, and avoiding imputation and noise associated with it. Specifically, we first train models on each modality independently using all the available data. Then the trained models are used as teachers to teach the student model, which is trained with the samples having complete modalities. We demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method in extensive empirical studies on both synthetic datasets and real-world datasets.
A Supercomputing Center Experience With Cooling Control Design

After designing and implementing an automated control system for a new HPC center, the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) elected to use a simpler operator-based solution. The solution has proven successful, and this case study documents the reasons for both the decision and the process used to choose it. Additional refinements to the cooling system controls are also documented and their adoption explained.
Correlations in high-harmonic generation of matter-wave jets revealed by pattern recognition

Correlations in interacting many-body systems are key to the study of quantum matter. The complexity of the correlations typically grows quickly as the system evolves and thus presents a challenge for experimental characterization and intuitive understanding. In a strongly driven Bose-Einstein condensate, we observe the high-harmonic generation of matter-wave jets with complex correlations as a result of bosonic stimulation. Based on a pattern recognition scheme, we identify a pattern of correlations that reveals the underlying secondary scattering processes and higher-order correlations. We show that pattern recognition offers a versatile strategy to visualize and analyze the quantum dynamics of a many-body system.
Hayek and Mises: Some Vignettes

My aim in this paper is to present a series of vignettes, snapshots if you will, that when I am finished will give us perhaps a little bit better idea of the Hayek-Mises relationship. Some of these stories are well known, others less so, and some that are well known might need to be modified. After I present these stories I am hopeful that those in the audience who may have others will be encouraged to share them, and when necessary to correct my own. I should add that some of these come from research that the Viennese historian of economic thought Hansjoerg Klausinger and I have done for a planned biography of Hayek. Beginning at the beginning, Hayek has told us in his reminiscences that though he had once tried going to one of Mises’ lectures at the University of Vienna when he was a student there from 1918 to 1921, he found him not to his taste (Hayek 1994, p. 68). After finishing his first degree he went in search of a job, and found himself standing in fall 1921 before Mises at the Abrechnungsamt (which I shall henceforth refer to, given my hatcheting of the German language, as the Office of Accounts), a temporary governmental office charged with clearing war debts.
FDG PET in evaluation of bone marrow involvement in patients with lymphoma – Correlation with subtypes and bone marrow biopsy patterns

1682 Objectives: Detection of bone marrow (BM) involvement in lymphoma is important for staging. BM biopsy suffers from the problems of sampling error and low sensitivity. BM involvement also varies according to histologic subtypes. The aim of this study was to determine the role of PET imaging in the evaluation of BM involvement in patients with lymphoma and correlate the results with the histologic subtypes. Methods: PET images and BM biopsy findings of 102 patients with newly diagnosed lymphoma at initial staging were reviewed. BM involvement with PET was considered to be present if PET showed focal or diffuse FDG uptake prior to therapy and the findings resolved after therapy. BM biopsy findings were analyzed with respect to cellularity and patterns of involvement. The two diagnostic modalities (PET vs. biopsy) were also compared according histologic subtypes. The distribution of various subtypes was Hodgkin’s disease ( HD, n=23), diffuse B cell lymphoma ( DLBCL, n=38), follicular lymphoma ( FL, n=22), Marginal Zone lymphoma ( MZL, n=8), mantle cell lymphoma ( n=7), T cell ( n=4). Results: PET showed active uptake in the marrow in 27 of 102 patients (26 %). Twenty of 27 patients (75%) had focal and 7 (25 %) showed diffuse uptake. Biopsy showed marrow involvement in 21 patients (20 %). Including both PET and biopsy finding, marrow involvement was found in 39 patients, almost a two fold increase in the number of cases detected. Of these 9 had marrow involvement detected by both PET and biopsy, 12 had marrow involvement only on biopsy and 18 patients (46%) had marrow involvement detected only by PET. The 18 patients with + PET but negative biopsy were predominantly DLBCL (n=10) and HD (n=6). The predominant histology among the 12 patients who had marrow involvement only on biopsy but not on PET was FL (n=7), followed by marginal zone lymphoma (n=3). In 10 of these 12 (83%) patients the involvement by lymphoma was less than 10 % and predominantly in the paratrabecular region of the marrow. Conclusions: These findings suggest that PET imaging has a higher detection rate of marrow involvement in lymphoma than biopsy. PET was superior to biopsy in detecting BM involvement in Patients with DLBCL and HD. Biopsy was more useful in patients with FL and MZL. PET may be negative when the involvement is paratrabecular and of a lower degree.
The association between breast cancer capacity and resources with incidence and mortality in Arizona's low populous counties.

Introduction While cancer deaths have decreased nationally, declines have been much slower in rural areas than in urban areas. Previous studies on rural cancer service capacity are limited to specific points along the cancer care continuum (eg screening, diagnosis or treatment) and require updating to capture the current rural health landscape since implementation of the 2010 Affordable Care Act in the USA. The association between current rural cancer service capacity across the cancer care continuum and cancer incidence and death is unclear. This cross-sectional study explored the association between breast cancer service capacity and incidence and mortality in Arizona's low populous counties. Methods To measure county-level cancer capacity, clinical organizations operating within low populous areas of Arizona were surveyed to assess on-site breast cancer services provided (screening, diagnosis and treatment) and number of healthcare providers were pulled from Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services National Provider Identifier database. The number of clinical sites and healthcare providers were converted to county-level per capita rates. Rural-Urban Continuum codes were used to designate rural or urban county status. Age-adjusted county-level breast cancer incidence and death rates from 2010 to 2016 were obtained from the Arizona Department of Health Services, Arizona Cancer Registry. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the results. Multivariate regression was used to evaluate the association between cancer service capacity and incidence and mortality in 13 out of Arizona's 15 counties. Results Rural counties had more per capita clinical sites (20.4) than urban counties (8.9) (p=0.02). Urban counties had more per capita pathologists (1.0) than rural counties (0) (pl0.01). In addition to zero pathologists, rural counties had zero medical oncologists. Rural county status was associated with a decrease in breast cancer incidence (b=-20.1, 95% confidence interval: -37.2-3.1). Conclusion While Arizona's sparsely populated rural counties may have more physical infrastructure per capita, these services are dispersed over vast geographic areas. They lack specialists providing cancer services. Non-physician clinical providers may be more prevalent in rural areas and represent opportunities for improving access to cancer preventive services and care. Compared to urban counties, rural county status was associated with lower detected breast cancer incidence rates although there were no statistically significant differences in breast cancer mortality. Other factors may contribute to rural-urban differences in breast cancer incidence. Future research should explore these factors and the association between cancer capacity and local resources because the use of county-level data represents a challenge in Arizona, where counties average over 19 425 km2 (7500 square miles).
Root Causes of Violent Radicalization: Reconciling Fishermen V. Swarm Debate with a System Structure of a Terror Contagion

This paper broadens the search for causes of radicalization leading to predatory mass violence beyond the well-known fishermen-swarm debate. We begin by creating a system hierarchy of five levels within which we synthesize expert theories of radicalization to present a complete system structure in a causal-loop diagram (CLD). From this we identify potential root-causes operating simultaneously at different levels of the hierarchy. Leveraging complexity science we demonstrate that six root causes operating at the highest level of system structure work together create a dynamic we term a ‘terror contagion’. As these root causes influence downwards into a system they create channels favoring different violent ideologies as well as radicalizaiton dynamics such as fishermen or swarm. This analysis demonstrates that swarm and fishermen are the effects of true root-causes of radicalization, and not the cause of radicalization itself. We conclude by proposing several experiments to test the proposed terror contagion hypothesis through traditional analysis as well as computer modeling and simulation.