cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Extended amygdala and emotional salience: a PET activation study of positive and negative affect.

Functional neuroimaging studies have implicated amygdaloid and basal forebrain regions, including sublenticular extended amygdala (SLEA), in the mediation of aversive emotional responses. However, it is not clear whether SLEA responds to ‘aversiveness’ or to general stimulus salience. We predicted that both pleasant and aversive stimuli would activate this region. Using [15O] water PET, we studied 10 healthy subjects while viewing pleasant, aversive, neutral, and blank images. Each subject underwent eight scans, which were processed and averaged with standard statistical methods. Both positive and negative stimuli activated regions in SLEA. Both positive and negative content activated the visual cortex, relative to neutral content. Aversive stimuli deactivated the left frontal pole, relative to positive and neutral stimuli. These findings demonstrate that both positive and negative emotional content evokes processing in the sublenticular/extended amygdala region, suggesting that this region is involved in general emotional processing, such as detection or attribution of salience.
Numerical investigation on EFP forming performance with variational-wall-thickness hemispherical liner

In order to research the explosively formed penenator(EFP) forming performance with variational-wall-thickness hemispherical liner,EFP forming processes with variational wall-thickness gradient,wall-thickness and the ratio of length versus diameter of charge were simulated.The influence of dimensionless parameters including thickness difference in top and edge of liner ξ/δ,top thickness δ/Dk and the ratio of length versus diameter of charge N for compactness,velocity,L/D and kinetic energy of EFP was approached.Optimized EFP was studied by Xray experiment.The numerical simulation predicted that figure and velocity for the EFP were similar to that of X-ray experiments.
III-nitride Ultraviolet Light Emitting Sources

This chapter is designed to discuss III-nitride ultraviolet light emitting sources. Research on III-nitrides started 80 years ago when the first aluminum nitride (AlN) was synthesized from metallic aluminum. After that, gallium nitride (GaN) and its family have been grown with various methods and after several breakthroughs, finally blue/violet light emitting diodes (LEDs) were demonstrated. Following the commercialization of blue laser diodes, the interest shifted towards shorter wavelength light emitters ultra violet (UV LEDs) and laser diodes. UV light emitters resemble well-known blue/violet LEDs, such as double heterostructure or quantum well (QW) active layer structure. A blue/ violet LED structure can be modified for UV emission by simply decreasing the indium content in the InGaN active layer. The minimum wavelength that can be achieved using ternary InGaN active layers is ∼ 365 nm. A number of groups have demonstrated UV LEDs and the quest for high-power devices still continues. Because of high density of dislocations and doping difficulties, realization of high efficiency UV light emitters is more challenging than that of blue/violet light emitters. This chapter reviews the growth, processing, and characterization of ultraviolet light emitters based on the III-nitride material system, with more emphasis on deep UV LEDs, because of the challenges involved.
P107 Implementing PCORI Methodology Standards for Patient Engagement in the PaTH Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis Cohort

Introduction: By statutory mandate, the United States Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute’s (PCORI) aims to “improve clinical decision-making by supporting research…. with patients and their caregivers at the center of this process.” We analyzed the PCORI-funded PaTH Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (PaTH IPF) cohort’s …
Strain localization in Ti-6Al-4V Widmanstätten microstructures produced by additive manufacturing

Abstract Although Additive Manufacturing (AM) offers numerous performance advantages over existing methods, AM structures are not being utilized for critical aerospace and mechanical applications due to uncertainties in their structural integrity as a result of microstructural variations and defects arising from the AM process itself. With strain localization serving as a precursor for material failure, the impact of microstructural variations in Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) produced Ti-6Al-4V on strain localization is investigated through high resolution digital image correlation as a result of monotonic and cyclic loading for both stress relieved and mill annealed specimens. From the experimental characterizations, it was observed that the former β phase boundaries that enclose separate microtextured regions and the α lathe's major axis orientations play a critical role in the localization of strain with respect to the Widmanstatten microstructures exhibited by DMLS Ti-6Al-4V. The results show a potential opportunity to improve the performance of DMLS produced Ti-6Al-4V by decreasing the size of the β grains during the solidification process through higher cooling rates and a build strategy that avoids the reheating of solidified material as much as possible to prevent β grain growth.
Performance of a 2-keV digitizer ASIC for 3-D position-sensitive pixellated semiconductor detectors

V AD_UM ASIC is a 124-channel pre-amplifier waveform digitizer for 3-D position-sensitive pixllated semiconductor detectors, with a measured 2-keV FWHM electronic noise at room temperature. Excellent energy resolutions of 0.41% FWHM at 662 keY and 0.27% FWHM at 2.6 MeV have been achieved on a 6 cm3 CZT detector (detector # 4E-l) for single-pixel events with a 3-MeV dynamic range. Depth separation for any two interactions is critical for Compton gamma-ray imaging. With this VAD_UM ASIC, the uncertainty of depth separation is found to be as small as 0.5 mm FWHM at 300 keY. A coincidence experiment using a plastic scintillator was carried out to measure the timing performance of the system. The result showed ~15 ns FWHM timing resolution for many anode pixels.
Availability, Accessibility, and Price of Rapid HIV Self-Tests, New York City Pharmacies, Summer 2013

We conducted an in-person survey of New York City (NYC) pharmacies to assess the availability, accessibility, and price of the over-the-counter, rapid HIV self-test kit. NYC pharmacies were stratified into high, moderate and low morbidity neighborhoods by the HIV diagnosis rate of the neighborhood in which the pharmacy was located. A random sample of 500 pharmacies was taken [250 from high morbidity neighborhoods (HighMN) and 250 from low morbidity neighborhoods (LowMN)]. Pharmacies were excluded if: closed during survey, non-retail, or >10 min walk from subway. Project staff visited pharmacies to determine kit availability (in pharmacy on day of survey), accessibility (not locked/behind counter), and price (marked on shelf/product). Of 361 pharmacies (161 LowMN; 200 HighMN), kits were available in 27 % and accessible in 10 %; there was no difference by neighborhood. Kits were most often kept behind the pharmacy counter; this was more common in HighMN than in LowMN. Kits were kept solely behind the pharmacy counter in 52 %. Median price was US $42.99 without variability across neighborhoods. The rapid HIV self-test had limited availability and access in retail pharmacies. The high median price measured suggests that cost remained a barrier.
Models of Magnetic Hysteresis Loops Useful for Technical Simulations Using Finite Elements Method (FEM) and Method of the Moments (MoM)

The paper provides the analyse of three simplified models of hysteresis loop suitable for technical purposes. Models consider the coercive field and utilize linear approximation with saturation, Langevin equation as well as arcus tangent functions. Validation of the models was done on the experimental data from measurements of magnetic hysteresis loops of four different materials. Accuracy of the models is assessed quantitatively. Finally, the parameters for practical application of the models are presented from the point of view different magnetic materials used in modelling by the finite elements method or the method of the moments.
High Rate of Survival in Transformed Lymphoma after Autologous Stem Cell Transplant (ASCT): Pathologic Analysis and Comparison with De Novo DLBCL.

Introduction: Survival gains in follicular lymphoma (FL) have been variably attributed to improved first line and salvage therapies, and a decreasing frequency of histologic transformation (HT). Although ASCT is often used in patients (pts) with transformed lymphoma (TL), optimal pt selection and factors predictive of outcome are unclear. Although immunohistochemistry (IHC) has been applied to prognostication in de novo DLBCL, few studies have investigated IHC as a prognostic factor in TL. The purpose of this analysis was to review outcomes using ASCT for TL at the Cleveland Clinic Taussig Cancer Insitute (CCTCI) in light of modern IHC-based pathologic analysis. Methods: All pts undergoing ASCT for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma from 2003–2008 at CCTCI (n=130) were identified. IHC analysis for markers CD10, BCL2, BCL6, and MUM-1 was available for 56 pts, who were analyzed further. Pts with TL (n=25) were compared as a group to de novo cases (n=31). Baseline characteristics were compared using Fisher’s exact and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests. Relapse-free and overall survival (RFS and OS) were estimated with the Kaplan-Meier method and compared via log-rank test. Cox proportional hazards analysis was used to examine features predicting outcome after ASCT. Results: Median age was 57 years. Of 25 TL pts, 16 had prior FL, 1 each had small lymphocytic lymphoma and nodular LP Hodgkin lymphoma, and 7 presented with coexistent DLBCL and FL in the same biopsy specimen. Among 18 TL pts with metachronous presentation, HT occurred at a median of 26 months (range, 8–198 months). Pathologic characteristics (%) are: Age and disease status at time of transplant were similar between groups. Three de novo pts and 2 TL patients underwent ASCT during first remission; all others underwent ASCT for relapsed/refractory disease. With a median follow-up of 25 months, 4 year RFS was 64% vs. 59% (p=.82) and OS 63% vs. 59% (p=.68) for TL and de novo pts, respectively (see Figures 1 and 2). No IHC feature predicted RFS or OS. Elevated LDH at time of ASCT predicted poor RFS (HR 4.6, p=.008) and OS (HR 6.3, p=.005) on multivariate analysis, and increasing number of prior regimens predicted poor RFS only (HR 1.4, p=.003). Conclusions: TL resembled de novo DLBCL in terms of IHC characteristics, but a higher proportion of TL cases bore the t(14;18) translocation. ASCT was effective in treating TL, with a 4-year RFS and OS exceeding 60%. This was indistinguishable from outcomes for de novo DLBCL pts treated with ASCT over the same period. Baseline characteristics were similar between TL and de novo pts. Survival in FL may be improving in part due to good outcomes using ASCT for TL. Confirmation of our observed RFS/OS among TL pts requires longer follow-up, given the ongoing risk of relapse of indolent disease. Outcome after ASCT cannot be predicted by IHC, and novel approaches are needed to improve pt selection and elucidate the biology of HT.
Evaluation of disinfectants and antiseptics to eliminate bacteria from the surface of turkey eggs and hatch gnotobiotic poults

Abstract Bird eggs are in contact with intestinal microbiota at or after oviposition, but are protected from bacterial translocation by a glycoprotein cuticle layer, the shell, and internal membranes. In a preliminary study, turkey eggs were hatched in a germ-free environment. Firmicutes 16S rRNA gene was detected in the cecal microbiota of hatched poults, suggesting that poults may acquire spore-formers by exposure to shell contents during hatching. Generating gnotobiotic poults for research requires elimination of bacteria from the egg’s surface without damaging the developing embryo. The ability of different disinfectants and antiseptics to eliminate eggshell bacteria without harming the developing embryo was tested. Different classes of disinfectants and antiseptics (halogens, biguanidines, and oxidants) were selected to target spores and vegetative bacteria likely present on the egg’s surface. Eggs were treated by fully immersing in heated antiseptic (betadine or chlorhexidine) or disinfectant (alkaline bleach, acidified bleach, chlorine dioxide, Oxysept-333, or Virkon S) solutions for up to 15 minutes. Shells were aseptically harvested for aerobic and anaerobic culturing of bacteria. Toxicity to the developing embryo was assessed by gross evaluation of developmental changes in treated eggs incubated up to 27 d of embryonation. Halogen disinfectants acidified bleach and chlorine dioxide, and oxidants Oxysept-333 and Virkon-S eliminated viable bacteria from eggshells. However, addition of oxidants, alone or in combination with other treatments, produced significant (P
Diversified Research Methods Education in LIS: Thinking Outside the Box

A small number of LIS degree programs have adopted a diversified approach to research methods education, including offering an array of specialized research methods courses in addition to a general introductory course. The current study conducted an in-depth investigation of the diversified research methods curriculum of the LIS program at San Jose State University. The curriculum featured ten different research methods courses, and permitted students to make a selection to fulfill the requirement. Students tended to base their selections on individual interests, and reported a high level of satisfaction with their learning experience. The current study examined different aspects of the diversified curriculum from the student perspective, and reviewed the implications of this curricular model.
Anthocyanin stabilization by chitosan-chondroitin sulfate polyelectrolyte complexation integrating catechin co-pigmentation

The thermochemical instability of anthocyanins (ATC) presents a challenge to their utilization as natural colorants in many food systems. This is addressed herein with the development of polysaccharide based carriers formed by combined encapsulation and copigmentation approaches which utilize polyelectrolyte complexation between chitosan and chondroitin sulfate (CS). At pH 3, a 1.5mg/mL and 1:1wt ratio mix of both polysaccharides produced hydrophilic and positively charged polyelectrolyte complexes (PECs) with which a maximum ATC encapsulation efficiency of 88% could be achieved using a 1:6 elderberry extract as the ATC source. ATC coupled with EGCG co-pigmentation achieved the highest encapsulation efficiencies. Storage studies showed the combination of polysaccharide encapsulation and EGCG copigmentation improved ATC stability against elevated temperature and ascorbic acid. Copigmented PECs were shown to retain ATC color at a rate more than 3-fold greater than of non-encapsulated ATC, and, furthermore, were shown to improve and preserve ATC anti-oxidant activity and stability during storage.
Radar Technologies for Earth Remote Sensing From CubeSat Platforms

Space-based radar observations have transformed our understanding of Earth over the last several decades. Driven by increasingly complex science questions, space radar missions have grown ever more sophisticated with costs rising often to hundreds of millions of dollars. At the other end of the cost and complexity spectrum, CubeSats have emerged in recent years as a disruptive innovation in the satellite sector and are now considered a means to address targeted science questions in a rapid and affordable manner. CubeSats enable new kinds of constellation-based Earth science observations not previously affordable with traditional spacecraft. Constellations of low-cost sensors provide both global spatial and high temporal coverage. As such, CubeSats are not only viable platforms to address current Earth science goals, but they also open a new realm of possibilities for science advancement and unique applications. Radar instruments have often been regarded as unsuitable for small satellite platforms due to their traditionally large size, weight, and power (SWaP). Burgeoning missions such as Radar in a CubeSat (RainCube) and CubeSat Imaging Radar for Earth Science (CIRES), being developed by Jet Propulsion Laboratory and SRI International, respectively, and funded by NASA’s Earth Science Technology Office (ESTO), are slated to dispel this notion. The key to the simplification and miniaturization of the radar subsystems in a manner that still offers compelling science and applications is 1) component technological advancement; and 2) an integrated instrument architecture and mission design that exploits the capabilities offered by CubeSat platforms. This paper reviews the state-of-the-art and future developments of CubeSat radar missions for Earth remote sensing and the implications for NASA’s current and future Earth Science program. The key enabling technologies for radio frequency (RF), digital, and antennas are surveyed, as well as the evolution of the CubeSat avionics, in the aspects that mostly impact radar development, namely power, volume, and attitude control and knowledge and precision orbit determination (POD). We investigate various radar applications that could benefit from low-cost CubeSat platforms, such as altimetry, sounding, precipitation profiling, scatterometry, synthetic aperture radar (SAR), and interferometric SAR (InSAR). We also explore the science motivation and impact of future missions that are based on these technological advancements.
Interpersonal Communication Motives for Flirting Face to Face and Through Texting

Abstract The objective of this study was to investigate specific interpersonal communication motives that college students use to flirt through texting versus face to face (FtF). Four hundred college students (101 men, 299 women) were surveyed and reported using various communication motives to flirt using texting with a potential romantic partner. College students reported specific motives for flirting. Women reported flirting through text and FtF for pleasure motives significantly more than men, whereas men reported flirting for control and relaxation. In addition, men were more likely to flirt FtF for escape compared with women. Findings suggest that individuals are likely to flirt for pleasure if they are in a committed romantic relationship compared with those not in a committed relationship.
Exact solutions for stress analysis of transversely isotropic elastic layers

The general equations for the elastic analysis of transversely isotropic materials are written in a form which allows derivatives in the thickness direction for all orders to be conveniently calculated. The displacements and stresses are expanded in Taylor series of a form suitable for deriving exact solutions for thick elastic layers with stress-free surfaces. This extends the work of Rao and Das for isotropic materials to the transversely isotropic case. A class of exact solutions are used to obtain results for stress concentration factors due to circular holes in layers.
Applying White Dialectics: Exploring Whiteness and Racial Identity among White College Athletes.

ABSTRACTThis article seeks to synthesize and apply White racial identity theory and concomitant research to the interaction between athletic and racial identity, specifically as it relates to the e...
Effect of Inhibition of Cyclooxygenase on Pre- and Postjunctional Actions of Peroxides in the Iris-Ciliary Body

In the present study, we investigated the effect of inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX) with flurbiprofen (FBF) on peroxide-induced enhancement of field-stimulated [3H]norepinephrine ([3H]NE) release from bovine isolated irides. Furthermore, the effect of FBF was examined on peroxide-induced attenuation of contractions evoked by carbachol on this tissue. Irides were prepared for studies of neurotransmitter release and for measurement of contractile tension in vitro. Pretreatment of tissues with FBF (10 μM) caused significant (P < 0.001) rightward shifts of concentration-response curves to H2O2 and also decreased cumene hydroperoxide (cuOOH)-induced enhancement of evoked [3H]NE release. FBF (10 μM) partially prevented the attenuation of carbachol-induced contractions induced by H2O2 (300 μM) and cuOOH (300 μM). We conclude that inhibition of the biosynthesis of prostanoids reduced both the prejunctional stimulatory effects of H2O2 and cuOOH on sympathetic neurotransmission and inhibitory effects of peroxides on carbachol-induced contractions the in the bovine isolated iris.
Detecting and counteracting benign faults and malicious attacks in cyber physical systems

The use of cyber-physical system (CPS) is rapidly expanding and many of their applications require a highly reliable and secure implementation as they control critical infrastructures or even life-critical devices. Unfortunately, current techniques for achieving high reliability and security incur high overheads. In particular, integrating countermeasures against security attacks is problematic as security threats are often not well defined, evolve continuously, and as a result, many CPSs often remain vulnerable. We propose to exploits the physical plant state information to enhance both reliability and security. Our approach, which monitors the controlled plant state trajectory, allows for tunable fault-tolerance as well as detection of malicious attacks, and it achieves these at a low overhead. The plant state space consists of safe and marginal state subspaces. In the safe subspace the CPS will continue its safe operation even if the worst case control signal is applied. In contrast, any erroneous control applied when the plant state is marginal, may lead to a catastrophic system failure. Such an erroneous control output may be due to either a benign fault or a malicious security attack. As most of the time the plant will be deep within its safe subspace, we can avoid using expensive redundancy techniques and thus, reduce the computational load while still guaranteeing safe operation. When a marginal state of the plant is detected, it will signal the potential presence of a “natural” fault or malicious attack. Our scheme will counter this by switching to a critical mode involving higher levels of redundancy to combat natural failures as well as alternative mechanisms to defeat malicious attacks. A major challenge in our approach is to determine, in real-time, whether the current state of the physical plant is deep within its safe sub-space or is marginal. We have used various machine learning techniques for classifying the state and our results indicate that with a reasonable number of entries in a lookup table and with a short execution time, the required classification can be performed efficiently.
Theorem Concerning Reflection From a Plane Stratified Medium

Let a plane electromagnetic wave of wavelength λ be incident in free space at an angle of incidence i upon a medium that is stratified in horizontal planes. Let the squared complex refractive index be an analytic function of height, and consider height as a complex variable. By sliding the contour map of the analytic function parallel to the imaginary height axis a family of refractive index profiles is obtained along the real height axis. Let one member of the family correspond to a nonabsorbing medium, and let another typical member of the family be obtained by displacing the contour map of the analytic function a distance b in the direction of the negative imaginary height axis. Then the amplitude reflection coefficient of the stratified medium is exp and the phase change on reflection is independent of b. This is true regardless of the precise form of the analytic function specifying the refractive index profiles. A function with singularities may be used, provided that the range of b is restricted to use only a region of the complex plane where the function is analytic.
Epstein-Barr virus and cytomegalovirus infections

Epstein–Barr virus and cytomegalovirus are members of the human herpesviruses that have an extremely high seroprevalence in all populations studied. The initial infection is usually asymptomatic, or causes a febrile illness, but can rarely manifest itself neurologically. These viruses are increasingly important in the modern era of immunosuppression, whether due to AIDS or in the transplant or cancer chemotherapy population, and their reactivation gives rise to a wide spectrum of neurological diseases. The pathogenesis of these infections is not completely understood, but certainly multifaceted. In CMV lytic infection damages systemic tissues directly, whereas EBV involves an activated and distorted immune system. These diseases are treatable, but need to be recognized early in their course so that antiviral intervention can be effected promptly. The choice of therapeutic strategy can be counterintuitive: while CMV infections are conventionally managed with antiviral medications, EBV infections may demand a neoplastic treatment paradigm as an addition to (or alternative to) antiviral treatment.
Contextual Word Representations: A Contextual Introduction

This introduction aims to tell the story of how we put words into computers. It is part of the story of the field of natural language processing (NLP), a branch of artificial intelligence. It targets a wide audience with a basic understanding of computer programming, but avoids a detailed mathematical treatment, and it does not present any algorithms. It also does not focus on any particular application of NLP such as translation, question answering, or information extraction. The ideas presented here were developed by many researchers over many decades, so the citations are not exhaustive but rather direct the reader to a handful of papers that are, in the author's view, seminal. After reading this document, you should have a general understanding of word vectors (also known as word embeddings): why they exist, what problems they solve, where they come from, how they have changed over time, and what some of the open questions about them are. Readers already familiar with word vectors are advised to skip to Section 5 for the discussion of the most recent advance, contextual word vectors.
Mongol Empire and Its Impact on Chinese Porcelains

This essay challenges the view that the Mongols had scant influence on Yuan dynasty arts. Although the Mongols were not the craftsmen who produced the artistic works, they were one of the major consumers of such objects. In addition, their support for trade translated into recognition that West and Southeast Asia and Korea provided a substantial market for Chinese porcelains. They appointed a high-level Commissioner to supervise porcelain production at Jingdezhen and other centers. Then, they assisted Chinese potters and transported porcelains to other regions in Asia. The Mongols also brought information about the specific artistic and culinary tastes of the markets for Chinese porcelains. Thus, Chinese potters produced massive plates, jars, and dishes for West Asians who characteristically placed their food on large plates. They also recognized that West Asians preferred decorations on their porcelains and produced works that had decorative motifs. In short, this essay seeks to alter the convention wisdom that the Mongols merely had a passive role in the efflorescence of Yuan porcelains.
Evaluating butterfly inlay tympanoplasty.

Abstract Objective To compare closure rate, reduction in air-bone-gap, and operative time of butterfly tympanoplasty (BT) to underlay tympanoplasty (UT). Methods Retrospective cohort study of children (age Results Twenty-one patients (mean age 13.4) underwent BT while forty-one patients (mean age 13.5) underwent UT. The mean size of perforation in 30.6% in BT patients and 43.6% in UT patients (p = 0.01). Preoperative audiogram showed a similar air-bone-gap between the two groups of 31.7, 22.7, and 17.9 dB in BT vs 29.6, 24.8, and 17.6 dB in UT at 500, 1000, and 2000 Hz, respectively (p = 0.65, 0.63, and 0.94). Operative time was reduced in BT as compared to UT (94.0 min vs. 150.9, p = 0.01). Closure rate was similar at 85.7% in BT vs 75.6% in UT patients (p = 0.40). Average reductions in air-bone gap were similar with 19.2, 11.7, and 13.2 dB for BT vs 16.6, 12.1, and 10.3 dB for UT at 500, 1000, and 2000 hz, respectively (p = 0.66, 0.93, 0.40). Conclusion BT has become a reliable tool for the pediatric otolaryngologist. This retrospective study shows that pediatric BT results in similar outcomes with reduced operative time.
Chronic nerve health following implantation of femoral nerve cuff electrodes.

Peripheral nerve stimulation with implanted nerve cuff electrodes can restore standing, stepping and other functions to individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). We performed the first study to evaluate the clinical electrodiagnostic changes due to electrode implantation acutely, chronic presence on the nerve peri- and post-operatively, and long-term delivery of electrical stimulation. A man with bilateral lower extremity paralysis secondary to cervical SCI sustained 5 years prior to enrollment received an implanted standing neuroprosthesis including composite flat interface nerve electrodes (C-FINEs) electrodes implanted around the proximal femoral nerves near the inguinal ligaments. Electromyography quantified neurophysiology preoperatively, intraoperatively, and through 1 year postoperatively. Stimulation charge thresholds, evoked knee extension moments, and weight distribution during standing quantified neuroprosthesis function over the same interval. Femoral compound motor unit action potentials increased 31% in amplitude and 34% in area while evoked knee extension moments increased significantly (p < 0.01) by 79% over 1 year of rehabilitation with standing and quadriceps exercises. Charge thresholds were low and stable, averaging 19.7 nC ± 6.2 (SEM). Changes in saphenous nerve action potentials and needle electromyography suggested minor nerve irritation perioperatively. This is the first human trial reporting acute and chronic neurophysiologic changes due to application of and stimulation through nerve cuff electrodes. Electrodiagnostics indicated preserved nerve health with strengthened responses following stimulated exercise. Temporary electrodiagnostic changes suggest minor nerve irritation only intra- and peri-operatively, not continuing chronically nor impacting function. These outcomes follow implantation of a neuroprosthesis enabling standing and demonstrate the ability to safely implant electrodes on the proximal femoral nerve close to the inguinal ligament. We demonstrate the electrodiagnostic findings that can be expected from implanting nerve cuff electrodes and their time-course for resolution, potentially applicable to prostheses modulating other peripheral nerves and functions. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01923662 , retrospectively registered August 15, 2013.
Secure State Migration in the Data Plane

Programmable data planes enable stateful packet processing at hardware speeds---a new capability central to many recent systems. However, protocols and systems that effectively manage data plane state remain underexplored. This paper considers the problem of secure state migration, which can serve as an important building block for state management tasks. It delivers data plane state from a source switch to a destination effectively without a software controller, while providing strong cryptographic guarantees on authenticity. Our protocol, P4Sync, tackles several technical challenges, such as adapting memory copy techniques in VM migration, offloading per-packet security operations to the data plane, and amortizing heavyweight cryptographic overheads over a batch of packets. Our initial validation shows that P4Sync has low traffic and memory overheads.
Navigating challenges to providing eating disorder support in collegiate recovery programs.

There is a significant need for eating disorder support on college campuses. Collegiate recovery programs (CRPs) are providing specialized support for students in recovery from substance use disord...
Free Tarsal Graft and Free Skin Graft for Lower Eyelid Reconstruction.

Purpose To determine whether reconstruction of lower eyelid defects involving the eyelid margin with a free tarsal graft and an overlying free skin graft, without retention or provision of any vascular support, would yield acceptable functional and cosmetic results. Methods We present here a clinical series of 4 patients treated between April 2019 and September 2019 who underwent reconstruction of large postcarcinoma excision, eyelid-margin-inclusive eyelid defects. Surgery was performed by the same surgeon (J.G.B.) at the Westchester Medical Center, Department of Ophthalmology and Dobbs Ferry Hospital in New York. Without retaining a conjunctival pedicle (modified Hughes procedure), and without a myocutaneous or other vascularized flap, the lower eyelids were reconstructed with a free tarsal graft and a separate overlying free skin graft. The primary outcomes measured were eyelid apposition to the globe, margin reflex distance 2 at least 6 months postoperatively, ocular surface integrity, and patient comfort and patient satisfaction with the procedure. Results The patients included in the clinical series ranged in age from 73 to 82, 3 were men and 1 women. Each had recent Moh's excision of carcinoma (3 basal; 1 squamous) resulting in large tissue defects of the lower eyelids. All carcinomas were T1N0M0. The mean postoperative margin reflex distance 2 of the reconstructed eyelids was 5.5 mm, range 5-7.5 mm. Two of the 4 patients underwent a secondary revision within 2-3 weeks following initial reconstruction for lateral ectropion or dehiscence. All eyelids were well-opposed to the globes after revision (except for the nasal eyelid in patient number 2 who had a preexisting ectropion from prior carcinoma excision in the same eyelid). Functional and esthetic results were on par with those of the modified Hughes procedure. All 4 patients were pleased that they had chosen to undergo the procedure being discussed. Conclusion In this clinical series of 4 patients, reconstruction of lower eyelid defects with a free tarsal graft and overlying free skin graft resulted in an acceptable functional and esthetic lower eyelid suggesting that retention of or provision of vascular support in either the anterior or posterior lamella may not be necessary.
Testing of a Program to Automatically Analyze Students' Concept Maps.

Concept maps are graphical representations of how various concepts relate to one another. Assessment of concept maps developed by students in the pharmacy curriculum helps to evaluate student understanding of course material. However, providing feedback on concept maps can be time-consuming and often requires the grader to be a content expert. The purpose of this study was to develop and validate a software program to provide students with feedback on their concept map performance. Student maps for four different disease states were compared against expert concept maps. The analysis of the program compared favorably to a manual assessment of student maps for the maps’ complexity and content but did not correlate for their organization. The value of using a software program to quickly and efficiently analyze concept maps is discussed.
An innovative DNP post-doctorate program to improve quality improvement and implementation science skills.

Abstract Background Doctor of Nursing Practice programs prepare nurse leaders for unique roles to address healthcare needs across the quality spectrum. However, additional mentoring and training in implementation science and analytical skills is needed to effectively lead system-wide quality initiatives. Purpose The purpose of this article is to describe the planning, implementation, and evaluation of an innovative post-doctoral DNP Quality Implementation Scholars Program developed through an academic-practice partnership to address this need. Project method Throughout the one year post-doctoral program, we evaluated student experiences qualitatively using focus groups and quantitatively using standardized course and instructor surveys to assess overall programmatic goals. Program outcomes were evaluated from the perspective of the academic-practice partnership planning committee through a Qualtrics© survey. Findings Strengths of the program included the in-depth mentoring by faculty and relationships built across the larger health system. Both scholars and the planning team noted that the system-wide project implemented by the scholars was relevant, timely, and quality-focused. Conclusions This innovative DNP post-doctoral program leveraged the skill-sets of DNP-prepared nurse leaders to lead system-wide quality improvement initiatives tailored specifically to healthcare organizations.
Analyzing parsicle screws as a viable alternative to pars screws and pedicle screws for C2 posterior instrumentation fixation.

Abstract Introduction This study examined the possible clinical utility of “parsicle screws” in securing C2 instrumentation. Methods Ten patients’ C2 vertebrae were virtually reconstructed using computer-aided design software. Pedicle, pars, and parsicle screws were virtually placed in the vertebrae. Results In addition to establishing the trajectory and theoretical safety of parsicle screws, this study determined that parsicle screws were significantly longer than pars screws (p = 0.005). Conclusion The additional length of parsicle screws may improve construct stability. As such, parsicle screws should be examined as an alternative to pars screws in patients unable to receive C2 pedicle screws.
The Genomic Signature of Allopatric Speciation in a Songbird Is Shaped by Genome Architecture (Aves: Certhia americana).

The genomic signature of speciation with gene flow is often attributed to the strength of divergent selection and recombination rate in regions harboring targets for selection. In contrast, allopatric speciation provides a different geographic context and evolutionary scenario, whereby introgression is limited by isolation rather than selection against gene flow. Lacking shared divergent selection or selection against hybridization, we would predict the genomic signature of allopatric speciation would largely be shaped by genomic architecture-the non-random distribution of functional elements and chromosomal characteristics-through its role in affecting the processes of selection and drift. Here, we built and annotated a chromosome-scale genome assembly for a songbird (Passeriformes: Certhia americana). We show that the genomic signature of allopatric speciation between its two primary lineages is largely shaped by genomic architecture. Regionally, gene density and recombination rate variation explain a large proportion of variance in genomic diversity, differentiation, and divergence. We identified a heterogeneous landscape of selection and neutrality, with a large portion of the genome under the effects of indirect selection. We found higher proportions of small chromosomes under the effects of indirect selection, likely because they have relatively higher gene density. At the chromosome scale, differential genomic architecture of macro- and micro-chromosomes shapes the genomic signatures of speciation: chromosome size has (1) a positive relationship with genetic differentiation, genetic divergence, rate of lineage sorting in the contact zone, and proportion neutral evolution and (2) a negative relationship with genetic diversity and recombination rate.
Endometrial Biopsy: Indications and Technique

Abnormal uterine bleeding is a frequent medical concern for premenopausal and postmenopausal patients. Endometrial biopsy is a safe, cost-effective option offered in the office setting. Although endometrial biopsy may result in insufficient tissue or false-negative results, data suggest that endometrial biopsy is 90% sensitive for endometrial cancer and 82% sensitive for atypical hyperplasia, with specificity of 100% for postmenopausal patients and similar results in premenopausal patients. Topical cervical analgesia and oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs decrease a patient's discomfort during endometrial biopsy. Aftercare instructions and how patients want to receive results should be reviewed in advance of performing the endometrial biopsy.
Performance of a differential modulation scheme with wireless relays in Rayleigh fading channels

We develop a new differential amplify-and-forward (DAF) scheme for cooperative wireless relay when the channel state information (CSI) is unknown to any node in the system. For a cooperative system with one source, one relay and one destination node, we derive closed-form expressions of the probability density function (PDF) of the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and the average bit error rate (BER) for the proposed DAF scheme. Numerical simulations validate our analytical results. The proposed DAF scheme offers cooperative diversity gain and outperforms the conventional noncooperative differential binary phase shift keying (BPSK) in Rayleigh fading channels.
Peracetylated 1-phenylflavazoles as carbohydrate derivatives for mass spectrometry

Abstract The title compounds give mass spectra that ( a ) include molecular ions of useful abundance, ( b ) allow the determination of the masses of monosaccharide constituents of disaccharides, ( c ) allow distinction between (1→4) and (1→6) interglycose bonds in disaccharides. The ion chemistry involved is interesting for the part that the 1-phenylflavazole moiety plays in elimination reactions involving hydrogen transfer.
Image Segmentation Using Curve Evolution and Anisotropic Diffusion: An Integrated Approach

In this paper, a new model is proposed for image segmentation that integrates the curve evolution and anisotropic diffusion methods. The curve evolution method, utilizing both gradient and region information, segments an image into multiple regions. During the evolution of the curve, anisotropic diffusion is adaptively applied to the image to remove noise while preserving boundary information. Coupled partial differential equations (PDE's) are used to implement the method. Experimental results show that the proposed model is successful for complex images with high noise
Maximum Likelihood Estimator for Multivariate Binary Response Models

The paper considers a multivariate binary response model that allows for a range of response distribution functions and pairwise response dependencies. The maximum likelihood estimator (MLE) for the model is derived and its asymptotic distribution and convergence properties are established. First, the analytically tractable closed form of necessary binary response probabilities is obtained. Second, the asymptotic information matrix is derived. Third, it is shown that identification is possible under fairly modest model assumptions. Fourth, the MLE for this model is consistent, asymptotically normal, and achieves the Cramer-Rao lower bound; the estimator for this model has a semi-quadratic rate of convergence, which is standard for maximum likelihood estimators.
WEB-BASED TOOLS FOR ENHANCING TEACHER PREPARATION PROGRAMS - Helping to Build a High Quality Teaching Workforce

This paper presents our ongoing work for designing, developing, and deploying a web-based support tool for pre-service credential candidates in special education programs. Our web-based application is divided into two major components: E-portfolio Manager and Lesson Plan Creator. To help reduce the workload of credential candidates as well as improve their professional teaching skills, we have designed a lesson plan creator system with the idea of shortening the amount of time required for creating sound lesson plans. Another parallel and equally important goal is to help programs manage credential candidates’ progress throughout their university work. Our application will move paper-based assignments, artifacts and evaluation forms into digital format for efficient management and assessment of credential candidate work. Additionally, it collects and manages statistical data for program improvement, thus increasing the quality of teaching. This paper offers our discussion on the advantages of the presented technology, as well as our future plans for further development of this evolving system.
Iterative methods for elliptic finite element equations on general meshes

It is fair to say that the development of iterative solution techniques for all kinds of discretized partial differential equations remains a vigorous branch of numerical analysis. Perhaps the greater part of the effort has gone into multigrid algorithms, the next most common topic being preconditioning methods. Traditionally applied to elliptic problems, multigrid methods have also recently been successfully applied to solving the hyperbolic equations of gas dynamics (see [23] for a survey).
Characterization of anaerobic dechlorinating consortia derived from aquatic sediments.

Four methanogenic consortia which degraded 2-chlorophenol, 3-chlorophenol, 2-chlorobenzoate, and 3-chlorobenzoate, respectively, and one nitrate-reducing consortium which degraded 3-chlorobenzoate were characterized. Degradative activity in these consortia was maintained by laboratory transfer for over 2 years. In the methanogenic consortia, the aromatic ring was dechlorinated before mineralization to methane and carbon dioxide. After dechlorination, the chlorophenol consortia converted phenol to benzoate before mineralization. All methanogenic consortia degraded both phenol and benzoate. The 3-chlorophenol and 3-chlorobenzoate consortia also degraded 2-chlorophenol. No other cross-acclimation to monochlorophenols or monochlorobenzoates was detected in the methanogenic consortia. The consortium which required nitrate for the degradation of 3-chlorobenzoate degraded benzoate and 4-chlorobenzoate anaerobically in the presence of KNO3, but not in its absence. This consortium also degraded benzoate, but not 3-chlorobenzoate, aerobically.
False Sexual-Abuse Allegations by Children and Adolescents: Contextual Factors and Clinical Subtypes

The authors review the empirical literature concerning the frequency of false allegations of sexual abuse as well as the case report literature that describes individual episodes of false allegations in detail. The authors then construct a clinical typology that is derived from the literature and their own clinical experience with similar cases. The specific subtypes of the typology are: (1) False allegation in the context of a custody dispute, (2) false allegations resulting from psychological disturbance on the part of the accuser, (3) false allegation as a conscious manipulation by the child or adolescent and, (4) false allegations based on iatrogenic factors. Clinical examples of each subtype are presented. The case material presented and reviewed indicates the importance of attending to the contextual factors surrounding the allegation and pursuing a detailed comprehensive evaluation that is as free of bias as possible. Language: en
Accessing Data from External Centralized Sources To Enhance Analysis of a Completed Clinical Trial

After the data collection phase of a clinical trial has been completed, new hypotheses may surface which require additional data before they can be tested. In the Veterans Affairs Cooperative Study on Single Drug Therapy of Hypertension, we investigated the relationship between location of the participating center, race and ability to control blood pressure. The analysis indicated poorer blood pressure control among sites located in the “stroke belt” (southeastern United States), especially among African-Americans. We sought to determine whether the effect was attributable to socioeconomic patternss however, income data were not collected as part of the original study. Therefore, we accessed centralized data bases to obtain zipcode-level income information for the randomized study patients. This approach yielded estimates of income data for 94.3% of the patients and compared favorably to data acquisition rates for variables which were collected prospectively in the study.