cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Semiconductor Epitaxy and Bandgap Engineering by Pulsed Laser Ablation

Recently, Pulsed Laser Ablation [1] has been receiving much attention as a viable thin film deposition technique due to its success in demonstrating excellent high T c superconducting thin films, although the use of laser radiation as an external energy source to vaporize materials for vacuum deposition was first carried out more than twenty five years ago [2].Most of the early work was focused on dielectric films, a few sporadic reports on III-V compounds [3], some investigations on II-V compounds [4] and elemental semiconductors [5]. Since material qualities were inferior to those grown by Molecular Beam Epitaxy (MBE) at that time, this area of work was largely ignored. After further refinement, the quality of semiconductor films grown by Pulsed Laser Ablation is now comparable to those by MBE, most notably in HgCdTe, CdTe, their superlattices [6] as well as Ge epitaxy [7].
Pharmacological studies with polythiazide, a new diuretic and antihypertensive agent.

SummaryPolythiazide was found to be a highly potent, orally active diuretic agent in rats and dogs. Duration of polythiazide action was prolonged. The diuretic effect was demonstrated as late as 12 to 24 hours after oral administration of the drug. Onset of polythiazide action was rapid. After intravenous administration to dogs, the maximal saluretic effect was obtained in 10 to 20 minutes. The onset of action after oral administration was less than one hour; maximal effect was obtained either during the first or second hour. Polythiazide produced an almost equal increase in excretion of sodium and chloride. The increase in excretion of potassium was approximately 1/10 of that of sodium. In acute experiments on rats polythiazide was found to be 10 times more potent than trichlormethiazide in its natriuretic effect but only 0.4 times as potent in its kaliuretic effect. Polythiazide at dose levels as high as 10 mg/kg i.v. did not depress glomerular filtration rate. Polythiazide is a carbonic anhydrase inhib...
Understanding Sponsored Search: Understanding Customer Intent for Keyphrase Selection

The Database of Intentions is simply this: The aggregate results of every search ever entered, every result list ever tendered, and every path taken as a result. This information represents, in aggregate form, a place holder for the intentions of humankind – a massive database of desires, needs, wants, and likes that can be discovered, subpoenaed, archived, tracked, and exploited to all sorts of ends. John Battelle, The Search: How Google and Its Rivals Rewrote the Rules of Business and Transformed Our Culture . When online consumers search for a frame shop, they input a query containing keywords into a search engine. It is these query terms, representing the desires and intentions of the searcher that form the basis of the sponsored-search effort.
Applications of amplified microwave thermal noise to medical diagnosis

The results of preliminary studies performed at MMTC with wideband amplified thermal microwave noise suggest that there are likely to be important medical applications with this new type of noninvasive diagnostic technique that could augment established diagnostic tools such as MRI, PET, and CAT scanning. These applications range from detecting water in the lungs of newborns to early detection of breast cancer to rapid monitoring of the effectiveness of anticancer therapies to measuring changes in the amount of blood in the frontal cortex of the brain as a function of drugs, emotional stress, etc.
Modeling of magnetic fields on a cylindrical surface and associated parameter estimation for development of a size sensor

This paper develops analytical sensing principles for estimation of circumferential size of a cylindrical surface using magnetic sensors. An electromagnet and magnetic sensors are used on a wearable band for measurement of leg size. In order to enable robust size estimation during rough real-world use of the wearable band, three estimation algorithms are developed based on models of the magnetic field variation over a cylindrical surface. The magnetic field models developed include those for a dipole and for a uniformly magnetized cylinder. The estimation algorithms used include a linear regression equation, an extended Kalman filter and an unscented Kalman filter. Experimental laboratory tests show that the size sensor in general performs accurately, yielding sub-millimeter estimation errors. The unscented Kalman filter yields the best performance that is robust to bias and misalignment errors. The size sensor developed herein can be used for monitoring swelling due to fluid accumulation in the lower leg and a number of other biomedical applications.
Two dimensional (2D) complex permeability characterization of thin film ferromagnetic material

Thin film ferromagnetic material exhibits superior inplane permeability behavior. Compared to that of the bulk material, thin film results in elevated ferromagnetic resonance frequency under the same biasing field or higher permeability when smaller biasing field is used for the same operating frequency. This paper presents a 2D complex permeability characterization method of thin film ferromagnetic materials. By conducting a two dimensional sweep in both biasing field and frequency, the in-plane dynamic complex permeability of the film is extracted from S-parameter measurements performed over GHz frequency with a short-circuited stripline testing structure. A de-embedding method is applied to remove the parasitic of the stripline housing. The complex permeabilities of two 300 nm thick FeGaB films in the forms of continuous and laminated compositions are investigated. The measured results in regard to the permeability spectra of the film are compared against the theoretical model based on Kittel's theory. The comparison between the measured results for the continuous and laminated FeGaB films validated the reduction of line width and eddy current loss by inserting insulating layers among the laminated ferromagnetic layers.
The power of everyday subordination: exploring the silencing and disempowerment of Chinese migrant domestic workers

This paper examines how Chinese female migrant domestic workers are influenced by different forms of subordination; how norms, practices, and power relations enable and legitimize their subordinati...
A brief history of the study of nerve dependent regeneration

Nerve dependence is a phenomenon observed across a stunning array of species and tissues. From zebrafish to fetal mice to humans, research across various animal models has shown that nerves are critical for the support of tissue repair and regeneration. Although the study of this phenomenon has persisted for centuries, largely through research conducted in salamanders, the cellular and molecular mechanisms of nerve dependence remain poorly-understood. Here we highlight the near-ubiquity and clinical relevance of vertebrate nerve dependence while providing a timeline of its study and an overview of recent advancements toward understanding the mechanisms behind this process. In presenting a brief history of the research of nerve dependence, we provide both historical and modern context to our recent work on nerve dependent limb regeneration in the Mexican axolotl.
Extracorporeal Life Support: Four Decades and Counting

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) or extracorporeal life support (ECLS) is a form of heart lung bypass that is used to support neonates, pediatrics, and adult patients with cardiorespiratory failure for days or weeks till organ recovery or transplantation. Venoarterial (VA) and venovenous (VV) ECLS are the most common modes of support. ECLS circuit components and monitoring have been evolving over the last 40 years. The technology is safer, simpler, and more durable with fewer complications. The use of neonatal respiratory ECLS use has been declining over the last two decades, while adult respiratory ECLS is growing especially since the H1N1 influenza pandemic in 2009. This review provides an overview of ECLS evolution over the last four decades, its use in neonatal, pediatric and adults, description of basic principles, circuit components, complications, and outcomes as well as a quick look into the future.
Abstract 527: A Novel Stem Cell Delivery Model for Evaluation of Delivery Using Targeted Bifunctional Liposomes with Ultrasound Enhancement

Introduction. We have developed bifunctional echogenic liposomes (BF-ELIP) targeted to both CD34 and ICAM-1 to facilitate delivery of CD34+ stem cells to inflammatory endothelium. We previously confirmed that BF-ELIP enhanced CD34+ stem cell adherence to ICAM-1-expressing endothelium in vitro and in vivo and showed that ultrasound (US) facilitated penetration of stem cells into the endothelial cell layer. Hypothesis. The transwell culture system can serve as an in vitro model for study of US-enhanced targeted delivery of stem cells to atheroma. Methods. BF-ELIP were prepared by evaporation-rehydration-sonication-lyophilization, followed by conjugating antibodies specific for CD34 and ICAM-1 through a thioether linkage. TNFα-pretreated HUVEC monolayers on transwell (6 wells/plate) insert membranes were incubated with nonspecific IgG-ELIP or BF-ELIP (1mg/well) for 15 minutes, followed by human monocytes labeled with Oregon Green. Half the inserts were subjected to 6 MHz color Doppler ultrasound (MI = 0.4) for 5 minutes. Fluorescence of resuspended cells was measured after treatment of both inserts and wells with 0.25% trypsin/0.1% EDTA 24 hours later. Results. BF-ELIP enhanced adherence of monocytes to the ICAM-1-expressing HUVEC monolayer relative to untreated controls and IgG-ELIP, but did not increase the number (Fig. 1) or proportion (Fig. 2) of monocytes traversing the monolayer. US greatly increased the number of monocytes both adhering to and passing through the monolayer in all groups. Conclusions. We have succeeded in developing a transwell cultured HUVEC system as a model for US-enhanced, BF-ELIP-mediated stem cell delivery to inflammatory endothelium.
Cool Down the Inflammation: Hypothermia as a Therapeutic Strategy for Acute Brain Injuries

While hypothermia has historically been appreciated as a possible cause of injury and mortality, its role as a therapeutic agent of choice in special circumstances has been less delineated in its origins. There are reports of ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans possibly implementing it, including Hippocrates specifically recommending that wounded soldiers be surrounded by snow to improve survival (Polderman, Intensive Care Med 30:757–769, 2004). The first clinical usages of hypothermia for brain injury were conducted by the neurosurgeon Temple Fay in the 1930s with subsequent pioneering reports of its therapeutic usage in various brain disorders (Fay, Ann Surg 101:76–132, 1959; Harris et al., Arch Neurol 59:1077–1083, 2002). Over the last few decades, there have been various animal studies and clinical trials that have investigated the various indications and mechanisms of therapeutic hypothermia, many of which implicate a role in curtailing the inflammatory cascade. Only over the past decade, in the setting of adult and pediatric post-anoxic encephalopathy, has hypothermia become an evidence-based therapy. Indications for treatment as well as mitigation of the inflammatory processes in other acute brain injuries such as ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes, traumatic brain injury, and status epilepticus remain controversial. This chapter reviews the role of therapeutic hypothermia, how “cooling the inflammation” may or may not be indicated in a variety of acute brain injuries: ischemic stroke, neonatal hypoxia–ischemia, post-cardiac arrest global ischemia, traumatic brain injury, intracerebral hemorrhage, subarachnoid hemorrhage, status epilepticus, meningitis/encephalitis, and acute liver failure.
Abstract P141: Integration of Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery in the Cardiovascular Intensive Unit: Formation of a Multidisciplinary Approach to Optimize Patient Outcomes

Background: In 2006, the Vanderbilt Heart and Vascular Institute significantly expanded its clinical operations, in part through the acquisition of large cardiology and cardiac surgical practices. Objective: In order to optimize patient (pt) outcomes in the face of rapidly growing inpatient volume and complexity, we sought to deliver seamless care across the spectrum of cardiovascular disease with the same nursing and core physician personnel. Methods: Important operational features of the integrated cardiovascular intensive care unit (CVICU) include: Bedside nurses trained to care for both cardiology and cardiac surgical pts, and participate in all work rounds A cardiovascular intensivist based full-time in the CVICU A single cardiology team in charge of all nonsurgical pts Daily interaction of the cardiology and cardiac surgical teams, including formal and informal consultation as needed Availability of the intensivist to assist with the care of all complicated nonsurgical pts A multidisciplinary team, including a cardiologist, a cardiovascular surgeon, and an intensivist that conducts daily rounds on cardiac surgical pts Creation of multidisciplinary teams to acutely manage critical pts, such as those presenting with cardiogenic shock and pts treated with therapeutic hypothermia post cardiac arrest A core leadership team (CL) comprised of a nurse manager, a clinical nurse specialist, a medical director, and a surgical director Formal weekly meetings of the CL to discuss quality/operational initiatives, core measures, and clinical outcomes data Results: In 2009, 2154 pts were admitted to the CVICU, including 1201 pts who underwent cardiac surgery, a 267% increase from 2005. In nonsurgical pts, the prevalence of heart failure and cardiogenic shock was 63% and 9%, respectively. For all CVICU pts, the in-hospital mortality was 3.9%. Among the cardiac surgical pts, the observed/expected mortality ratio (Society of Thoracic Surgery data) was 0.80, compared to 0.85 in 2005. Conclusions: From 2006-2009, the number and complexity of CVICU pts increased significantly, with a dramatic increase in cardiac surgical pts. Through the creation of an integrated CVICU, multidisciplinary collaboration was enhanced, and pt outcomes remained excellent.
Evolution and Media Naturalness: A Look at E-Communication Through a Darwinian Theoretical Lens

Modern theories of human evolution converge on the belief that our brain has been designed to cope with problems that occurred intermittently in our evolutionary past. Evidence suggests that, during over 99 percent of the evolutionary process leading to the emergence of our species, our ancestors communicated in a synchronous and colocated manner, and employing facial expressions, body language, and oral speech (what we refer to here, generally, as face-to-face communication). Thus, it is plausible to assume that many of the evolutionary adaptations our brain has undergone in connection with communication have been directed at improving the efficiency and effectiveness of face-to-face communication, which begs the question: What happens when we selectively suppress face-to-face communication elements (e.g., colocation, the ability to employ/observe facial expressions) through e-communication technologies? This paper tries to provide an answer to this question by developing a hypothesis, called the media naturalness hypothesis, which builds on modern human evolution theory. The media naturalness hypothesis argues that, other things being equal, a decrease in the degree of naturalness of a communication medium (or its degree of similarity to the face-to-face medium) leads to the following effects in connection with a communication interaction: (1) increased cognitive effort, (2) increased communication ambiguity, and (3) decreased physiological arousal. It is argued that the media naturalness hypothesis has important implications for the selection, use, and deployment of e-communication tools in organizations, particularly in the context of business-to-consumer interactions.
An unsupervised learning algorithm for multiscale neural activity

Technological advances have enabled the simultaneous recording of multiscale neural activity consisting of spikes, local field potential (LFP), and electrocorticogram (ECoG). Developing models that describe the encoding of behavior within multiscale activity is essential both for understanding neural mechanisms and for various neurotechnologies such as brain-machine interfaces (BMI). Multiscale recordings consist of signals with different statistical profiles and time-scales. While encoding models have been developed for each scale of activity alone, developing statistical models that simultaneously characterize discrete spike and continuous LFP/ECoG recordings and their various time-scales is a major challenge. To address this challenge, we have recently proposed a multiscale state-space encoding model for combined spike/LFP/ECoG recordings. However, methods to learn these state-space models from data are still lacking. Here, we develop an unsupervised learning algorithm for multiscale state-space models. Given a multiscale dataset, our algorithm finds the maximum-likelihood estimate of the state-space model parameters using a new expectation-maximization (EM) technique. We show that the new algorithm can learn the encoding model accurately from simulated multiscale data. We also show that the learned model can be used to decode arm movement trajectories from simulated multiscale activity. These multiscale models have the potential to improve the performance and robustness of various neurotechnologies.
The Portuguese Empire and the Lusophone Postcolony as Diasporas

The Portuguese-Speaking Diaspora is an ambitious repository for a selective yet extraordinarily wide-ranging assembly of cultural artifacts drawn from the entire history of the Portuguese empire an...
Access to safe surgery.

Mercy Ships, the world’s largest civilian hospital ship, has made a major contribution in coastal sub-Saharan Africa by providing state-of-the-art surgical care to some of the world’s poorest and most vulnerable people who might otherwise have no access at all to any surgery. By investing in local healthcare infrastructure and by training local personnel, Mercy Ships contributes to local capacity-building. By the very nature of the work it does, it has the additional potential to provide a unique setting for research. The three analyses and two research papers published in this themed supplement of BMJ Global Health have taken advantage of this fact and show how valuable research is possible in non-governmental organisations (NGOs), like Mercy Ships.1–5 The Lancet Commission on Investing in Health pointed to ‘the possibility of achieving dramatic gains in global health by 2035 through a grand convergence around infectious, child, and maternal mortality; major reductions in the incidence and consequences of non-communicable diseases and injuries; and the promise of universal coverage’.6 It is my personal opinion—an opinion supported by the conclusions of the Disease Control Priorities, Third Edition: Essential Surgery volume, 7 and the Lancet Commission on Global Surgery8—that this lofty goal will not be achieved in low-income and …
Venereologic Dermatology in Homosexual Men

Genital herpesviral infections are almost always sexually acquired. Rarely, genital herpes may be acquired by autoinoculation with any cutaneous site; by medical personnel who are exposed to oral or genital lesions during the physical examination of, specimen collection from, or management of patients with herpes; and by wrestlers, who may acquire “herpes gladiatorum” by direct nonvenereal contact with infected individuals. Herpes simplex may occur on the wrestler’s hands and then be transmitted to his genitals. Similarly, masseurs may acquire nonvenereal genital herpes.
Fundamental Characteristics of the Catalyst System Platinum-Loaded Zeolite L

Abstract A variety of characterization techniques have been applied to probing the structure - selectivity interrelationship in the selective dehydrocyclization catalyst platinum-loaded zeolite L. Powder X-ray (PXD) and neutron diffraction (PND) have yielded precise data on framework geometries, aluminum partitionings (and, at Si:Al = 1.0, evidence for long range Si:Al ordering), and the non-framework cation configurations. Hydrocarbon location and motional characteristics have been probed by PND and 2H nmr respectively, complemented by computer simulations. The preferred Pt atom sites in the zeolite loaded with Pt at high dispersion remain unmeasured, although insight has been gleaned from simple hard-sphere modeling. Aggregated Pt clusters can be detected by electron microscopy and high resolution PXD.
The Development of Chemical Engineering as Shown by its Texts

Chemical Engineering is the newest of the four major engineering disciplines. Civil and Mechanical Engineering for example, both predate it in terms at least of their professional associations by some 100 years. It emerged as a separate discipline somewhat slowly, almost reluctantly between the end of the 19th and the early 20th century but was well established by the late 1920’s. This late beginning and prolonged labour tends to conceal the fact that many of what are today regarded as standard unit operations were practiced long before the subject was recognised. This lack of recognition is compounded by the fact that so many histories of technology treat either the development of scientific theories or of mechanical inventions. Those which describe the growth of chemical technology tend to do so on the basis of particular products or groups of products. For example the contents list of volume 3 of Singer’s History of Technology (1) shows that it is almost wholly product orientated whilst the same tendency is followed in the last chapter dealing with chemical inventions.
On Maximum Likelihood Reconstruction over Multiple Deletion Channels

The problem of reconstructing a sequence when observed through multiple looks over deletion channels occurs in “de novo” DNA sequencing. The DNA could be sequenced multiple times, yielding several “looks” of it, but each time the sequencer could be noisy with (independent) deletion impairments. The main goal of this paper is to develop reconstruction algorithms for a sequence observed through the lens of a fixed number of deletion channels. We use the probabilistic model of the deletion channels to develop both symbol-wise and sequence maximum likelihood decoding criteria, and algorithms motivated by them. Numerical evaluations demonstrate improvement in terms of edit distance error, over earlier algorithms,
Machine learning to analyze the social-ecological impacts of natural resource policy: insights from community forest management in the Indian Himalaya

Machine learning promises to advance analysis of the social and ecological impacts of forest and other natural resource policies around the world. However, realizing this promise requires addressing a number of challenges characteristic of the forest sector. Forests are complex social-ecological systems (SESs) with myriad interactions and feedbacks potentially linked to policy impacts. This complexity makes it hard for machine learning methods to distinguish between significant causal relationships and random fluctuations due to noise. In this context, SES frameworks together with quasi-experimental impact evaluation approaches can facilitate the use of machine learning by providing guidance on the choice of variables while reducing bias in estimated effects. Here we combine an SES framework, optimal matching, and Causal Tree-based algorithms to examine causal impacts of two community forest management policies (forest cooperatives and joint state-community partnerships) on vegetation growth in the Indian Himalaya. We find that neither policy had a major impact on average, but there was important heterogeneity in effects conditional on local contextual conditions. For joint forest management, a set of biophysical and climate factors shaped differential policy impacts across the study region. By contrast, cooperative forest management performed much better in locations where existing grazing-based livelihoods were safeguarded. Stronger local institutions and secure tenure under cooperative management explain the difference in outcomes between the two policies. Despite their potential, machine learning approaches do have limitations, including absence of valid precision estimates for heterogeneity estimates and issues of estimate stability. Therefore, they should be viewed as a complement to impact evaluation approaches that, among other potential uses, can uncover key drivers of heterogeneity and generate new questions and hypotheses to improve knowledge and policy relating to forest and other natural resource governance challenges.
Structure and Function of an Inflammatory Cytokine, Interleukin-2, Analyzed Using the Bioinformatic Approach

The inflammatory cytokine, interleukin-2 (IL-2), is an important regulator of cellular functions. This relatively less studied member of the interleukin protein family is responsible for multiple immuno-modulatory and immuno-stimulatory tasks, like T cell activation, triggering of natural killer cells, inflammation, as well as proliferation and progression of autoimmune diseases and cancers. In this communication we report the temporally variant structural aspects of the IL-2 ligand and its receptor interfaces, based on the available crystal structures. The intended goal of this effort is to generate simulated results that could potentially aid the designs of novel structure based therapeutics.
Language and Literacy Practices that Influence Bilingual and Bi-Literate Acquisition in L1 Kannada and L2 English in Bangalore, India

This study was conducted in Bangalore, India, to measure the influence of language and literacy practices on students’ bilingual and bi-literate competencies in L1 Kannada and L2 English. Shenoy S (Psychol Stud 61(3):126–136, 2016) modified the Clinical Evaluation of Language Fundamentals (CELF5) screening tool in English and Kannada to provide teachers with an opportunity to better understand the language profiles of their students. Based on this screening tool, more than 50% of the students from a low-income school were identified as being below criterion on both their L1 and L2, compared to 13% of students from a high-income school. To identify the language and literacy practices that could account for bilingual test scores, informal measures were developed to collect data from parents and teachers. Ninety-three parents completed a questionnaire on language and literacy practices at home, and regression analyses depicted that students’ dominant home language explained their bilingual test scores in both low-SES and high-SES schools. Ten teachers were interviewed, and qualitative analyses depicted that teachers from low-income schools code-switched between English and Kannada approximately 50% of the time compared to teachers from high-income schools, who followed a 100% English-immersion model.
The Dependence of Mathematics on Reality.

built up from axioms by the use of logical principles. By altering these axioms, dif ferent types of mathematics can be devel oped; for example, Euclidean and non Euclidean geometries differ by only one axiom?the parallel postulate?but this difference is quite sufficient to lead to very different conclusions in each system. This modern concept of mathematics stresses the idea that man invents his mathe matics (and hence controls it to some extent) rather than discovers it (the as sumption here being that mathematics exists apart from and independent of man). Mathematics becomes an intellec tual game. You select your axioms according to taste and work out the corre sponding mathematics, using logical prin ciples. If the results are aesthetically pleasing or elegant, this new system be comes a part of mathematics. Notice here that for the modern mathematician there is no mention of applicability to reality. The system stands alone on its consist ency and beauty. If, for some reason, the system can be used in explaining certain properties of the real world, this is of no import to the mathematician. G. H. Hardy, in his book A Mathematician's Apology, expresses this view quite force fully. It has been said by Huxley that six monkeys pecking unintelligently on typewriters would, after millions of mil lions of years, eventually write all the books in the British Museum (Sir James Jeans quotes Huxley's statement on page 4 of the Mysterious Universe). Similarly, mathematicians randomly selecting vari ous axioms would eventually produce sig nificant mathematical systems, but un doubtedly only after an enormous amount of time had been wasted. Now I do not claim that this is really the way mathematics is produced. In fact, my thesis in this paper is that great mathematics is seldom done by playing these intellectual games; rather, the great mathematicians, in doing their mathe matics, have had an eye out for some thing external to themselves?let us call it the real world?and their hope has been that their mathematics would lead not only to beauty and an internal truth but to external truths as well?namely, sig nificant knowledge oj the real world. Now, the present-day concern with and em phasis on axiomatics (to the exclusion of everything else) has been of fairly recent origin, getting its start in the late nine teenth century or very early twentieth century. Some observers feel that this emphasis has caused a split between mathematics and science. By tracing the development and interests of several mathematicians from the past who have without doubt significantly contributed to the advancement of mathematics, I hope to show that this modern trend of over emphasis on axiomatics should at least be modified to include consideration of the significance of reality in any develop ment of new mathematics. In Men oj Mathematics (1937, p. 218), E. T. Bell says:
Medical Specialties’ View of Autonomic System Measurements

This short chapter presents the seminal articles that provide the basis for the patients for whom Autonomic Assessment is recommended. The articles are from the medical leadership, including the American Academy of Family Practitioners, American Academy of Neurology, American Diabetes Association, and American Heart Association. The articles identify which diseases or disorders lead to autonomic neuropathy. We know that autonomic neuropathy is late in the progression and leaves few therapy options. We know that autonomic dysfunction is treatable, but is asymptomatic. Therefore, the leadership articles lead to the conclusion that the disease or disorder itself is the “symptom” indicating the need for autonomic assessment. This avoids the issue of screening. So, as long as the patient has been diagnosed with a chronic condition that is identified in the literature as leading to autonomic neuropathy, then they are recommended for periodic Autonomic Assessment.
Editorial Commentary: Consider the Sacroiliac Joint: Imaging a Source of Pain Can Feel Compelling. Orthopaedists Would Do Well to Remain Skeptical

With regard to the association of sacroiliac (SI) pain and hip arthroscopy outcomes, it is vital to understand that imaging the SI joint may be unreliable. A recent systematic review on diagnostic accuracy for SI joint pain concluded that more reliable criteria are strongly positive responses to diagnostic injection and a physical examination in which 3 or more provocative maneuvers are positive. SI joint degenerative changes can be found in a majority of asymptotic patients and might be considered normal finding until proven otherwise. When it comes to the spine and pelvis, radiologic changes should be interpreted by caution by both hip surgeons and spine surgeons.
Temporal data classification and forecasting using a memristor-based reservoir computing system

Time-series analysis including forecasting is essential in a range of fields from finance to engineering. However, long-term forecasting is difficult, particularly for cases where the underlying models and parameters are complex and unknown. Neural networks can effectively process features in temporal units and are attractive for such purposes. Reservoir computing, in particular, can offer efficient temporal processing of recurrent neural networks with a low training cost, and is thus well suited to time-series analysis and forecasting tasks. Here, we report a reservoir computing hardware system based on dynamic tungsten oxide (WOx) memristors that can efficiently process temporal data. The internal short-term memory effects of the WOx memristors allow the memristor-based reservoir to nonlinearly map temporal inputs into reservoir states, where the projected features can be readily processed by a linear readout function. We use the system to experimentally demonstrate two standard benchmarking tasks: isolated spoken-digit recognition with partial inputs, and chaotic system forecasting. A high classification accuracy of 99.2% is obtained for spoken-digit recognition, and autonomous chaotic time-series forecasting has been demonstrated over the long term. A reservoir computer system based on dynamic tungsten oxide memristors can be used to perform time-series analysis, demonstrating isolated spoken-digit recognition with partial inputs and chaotic system forecasting.
The neurogenomic transition from territory establishment to parenting in a territorial female songbird

The brain plays a critical role in upstream regulation of processes central to mating effort, parental effort, and self-maintenance. For seasonally breeding animals, the brain is likely mediating trade-offs among these processes within a short breeding season, yet research thus far has only explored neurogenomic changes from non-breeding to breeding states or select pathways (e.g., steroids) in male and/or lab-reared animals. Here, we use RNA-seq to explore neural plasticity in three behaviorally relevant neural tissues (ventromedial telencephalon [VmT], hypothalamus [HYPO], and hindbrain [HB]), comparing free-living female tree swallows (Tachycineta bicolor) as they shift from territory establishment to incubation. We additionally highlight changes in aggression-related genes to explore the potential for a neurogenomic shift in the mechanisms regulating aggression, a critical behavior both in establishing and maintaining a territory and in defense of offspring. HB had few differentially expressed genes, but VmT and HYPO had hundreds. In particular, VmT had higher expression of genes related to neuroplasticity and processes beneficial for competition during territory establishment, but down-regulated immune processes. HYPO showed signs of high neuroplasticity during incubation, and a decreased potential for glucocorticoid signaling. Expression of aggression-related genes also shifted from steroidal to non-steroidal pathways across the breeding season. These patterns suggest trade-offs between enhanced activity and immunity in the VmT and between stress responsiveness and parental care in the HYPO, along with a potential shift in the mechanisms regulating aggression. Collectively, these data highlight important gene regulatory pathways that may underlie behavioral plasticity in females.
Nanoparticles Containing a Combination of a Drug and an Antibody for the Treatment of Breast Cancer Brain Metastases.

In women with human epidermal growth factor 2 (HER2)-positive breast cancer, the improved control of systemic disease with new therapies has unmasked brain metastases that historically would have remained clinically silent. The efficacy of therapeutic agents against brain metastases is limited by their inability to permeate the blood–brain and blood–tumor barriers (BBB and BTB) in therapeutic amounts. Here, we investigate the potential of mucic acid-based, targeted nanoparticles designed to transcytose the BBB/BTB to deliver a small molecule drug, camptothecin (CPT), and therapeutic antibody, Herceptin, to brain metastases in mice. Treatment with BBB-targeted combination CPT/Herceptin nanoparticles significantly inhibits tumor growth compared to free CPT/Herceptin and BBB-targeted nanoparticles carrying CPT alone. Though not as efficacious, BBB-targeted nanoparticles carrying only Herceptin also elicit considerable antitumor activity. These results demonstrate the potential of the targeted nanoparticle system for the delivery of an antibody alone or in combination with other drugs across the BBB/BTB to improve the therapeutic outcome.
Transmission-Line Switching for Load Shed Prevention via an Accelerated Linear Programming Approximation of AC Power Flows

Topology control has garnered recent consideration for its value in leveraging the flexiblity of the power system. However, using even the latest technology, the AC optimal transmission switching (ACOTS) problem remains intractable. As such, most research addressing optimal topology control is based on the DCOPF, which has been shown to be particularly inaccurate for transmission switching decisions in the AC power system. This paper accelerates an existing mixed-integer linear power flow model which has been shown to be very accurate in approximating AC power flows. The aim of the new model is to identify transmission switching candidates to prevent load shed caused by contingency events. The methodology was tested on the IEEE 118-bus test case system and presents promising results. The model proposed herein was found to almost always identify AC optimal switching actions while significantly reducing the necessary solution time in comparison with the base model.
An examination of the relationship between race, skin color and a series of autonomic nervous system measures

In the total population of 75 subjects, the skin albedo correlated significantly with skin resistance, a relationship which was not maintained when the total population was separated into its component subgroups of whites, blacks and Indians. The Indians, "anthropologically Caucasians" but skin color more akin to the blacks, exhibited mean skin reflectance and skin resistance intermediate to that obtained in the black and white groups respectively. Other differences and significant correlations between the autonomic functions in the three groups indicated a higher level of sympathetic tone in the Indians, although this could be attributed to the older age of this group. It was suggested from the results that skin color rather than race has a greater influence on skin resistance.
Design of a Fellowship Learning-by-Teaching Experience for Reflecting on Safety and Change

Leading change is a common topic covered in patient safety curricula. This paper describes the design of learning sessions that expand on this topic to more general concepts of safety and change across disciplines studying safety. The learning sessions were designed to be co-produced by fellows and faculty and to be thought of as an emerging phenomenon to accommodate an interprofessional class with a variety of expertise and knowledge. Cross-curricular connections were emphasized to facilitate discussion into potential interconnectedness and to identify inconsistencies. The resultant design provided the flexibility for customizing to each unique class. Future learning sessions will introduce concepts in resiliency and cognitive systems engineering while connecting to the sessions described here.
Cellular Automata Simulation of RNA Self-Replicators

We describe reaction-diffusion rules for template-driven polymerization of nucleic acid sequences. Simulations of the model reproduce experimentally determined RNA structure and demonstrate self-re...
Biological effects of inhaled hydraulic fracturing sand dust. VIII. Immunotoxicity.

Abstract Hydraulic fracturing (“fracking”) is a process used to enhance retrieval of gas from subterranean natural gas-laden rock by fracturing it under pressure. Sand used to stabilize fissures and facilitate gas flow creates a potential occupational hazard from respirable fracking sand dust (FSD). As studies of the immunotoxicity of FSD are lacking, the effects of whole-body inhalation (6 h/d for 4 d) of a FSD, i.e., FSD 8, was investigated at 1, 7, and 27 d post-exposure in rats. Exposure to 10 mg/m3 FSD 8 resulted in decreased lung-associated lymph node (LLN) cellularity, total B-cells, CD4+ T-cells, CD8+ T-cells and total natural killer (NK) cells at 7-d post exposure. The frequency of CD4+ T-cells decreased while the frequency of B-cells increased (7 and 27 d) in the LLN. In contrast, increases in LLN cellularity and increases in total CD4+ and CD8+ T-cells were observed in rats following 30 mg/m3 FSD 8 at 1 d post-exposure. Increases in the frequency and number of CD4+ T-cells and NK cells were observed in bronchial alveolar lavage fluid at 7-d post-exposure (10 mg/m3) along with an increase in total CD4+ T-cells, CD11b + cells, and NK cells at 1-day post-exposure (30 mg/m3). Increases in the numbers of B-cells and CD8+ T-cells were observed in the spleen at 1-day post 30 mg/m3 FSD 8 exposure. In addition, NK cell activity was suppressed at 1 d (30 mg/m3) and 27 d post-exposure (10 mg/m3). No change in the IgM response to sheep red blood cells was observed. The findings indicate that FSD 8 caused alterations in cellularity, phenotypic subsets, and impairment of immune function.
Protocol-Based Intravenous Fluid Hydration for Newly Created Ileostomies Decreases Readmissions Secondary to Dehydration.

BackgroundNewly created ileostomies often result in patient readmission due to dehydration secondary to high ostomy output. Implementation of a mandatory home intravenous hydration protocol can avo...
The Cultural and Diagnostic Appropriateness of Standardized Assessments for Dual Language Learners: A Focus on Jamaican Preschoolers

Purpose The aim of this study was to investigate the appropriateness of standardized assessments of expressive grammar and vocabulary in a sample of preschool-age dual language learners (DLLs) who use Jamaican Creole (JC) and English. Adult models from the same linguistic community as these children were used to inform culturally and linguistically appropriate interpretation of children's responses to a standardized assessment. Method JC-English-speaking preschoolers (n = 176) and adults (n = 33) completed the Word Structure and Expressive Vocabulary subtests of the Clinical Evaluation of Language Fundamentals Preschool-Second Edition. Adults' responses were used to develop an adapted scoring procedure that considered the influence of JC linguistic features on responses. DLLs' responses scored using the standard English and adapted JC procedures were compared. Results JC-English DLLs and adults used similar linguistic structures in response to subtest questions. DLLs' scores differed significantly from the standardized sample on both subtests. Preschoolers received higher raw and corresponding standard scores with adapted scoring compared to standard scoring. Adapted scoring that made use of adult models yielded high classification accuracy at a rate of 93.8% for Word Structure and 92.1% for Expressive Vocabulary. Conclusions Adapting standardized assessment scoring procedures using adult models may offer an ecologically valid approach to working with DLL preschoolers that can support a more accurate assessment of language functioning. These findings suggest that the use of standardized assessments for bilingual JC-English speakers requires a culturally responsive approach. Supplemental Material https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.14403026.
Concomitant use of combined hormonal contraceptives and antifibrinolytic agents for the management of heavy menstrual bleeding: A practice pattern survey.

Abstract Introduction Concomitant antifibrinolytic agents and combined hormonal contraceptives (CHC) have been anecdotally used to manage refractory heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB). Yet, there remains uncertainty among clinicians regarding the safety of this therapeutic option as concomitant CHC is listed as a contraindication to tranexamic acid use in the United States. Aim To describe current treatment practices and physician-reported safety and effectiveness of concomitant antifibrinolytics and CHCs. Methods We surveyed clinician members of the Hemostasis and Thrombosis Research Society and the Foundation of Women and Girls with Blood Disorders using a web-based survey. We also shared the survey link on Twitter. Results Of the 224 respondents who completed the survey, 214 treated women of reproductive age with HMB. Of the 214 respondents, 138 (64%) had treated at least 1 woman with concomitant antifibrinolytic agents and CHCs in the past 12 months. Over half of these respondents (n = 77, 57%) reported that at least 50% of women had resolution of refractory HMB. One respondent reported an arterial or venous thrombotic event that occurred in 1 woman. Conclusion We found that the use of concomitant CHCs and antifibrinolytic agent for refractory HMB is prevalent, appears to be efficacious and is relatively safe. Further research is warranted.
Emergence of TeraVolts per meter plasmonics using relativistic surface plasmonic modes

Plasmonics has opened unforeseen applications due to its sub-wavelength scale control over modes of collective oscillations of free electron gas in solids. This control is only possible due to nano-structuring of the underlying media. I introduce my TeraVolts per meter (TVm−1) plasmonics initiative which promises many tens of TVm−1 fields by relying on nanostructured materials to access a novel class of relativistic plasmonic modes excited as “trailing wake” of intense ultrashort particle bunches. Nanomaterial tubes with a hollow core are critical to mitigate the disruptive effects of collision of the particle beam with the ionic-lattice. Specifically, I present underlying concepts and theoretical model of highly nonlinear surface plasmonic waves. These surface waves are sustained by a train of “crunch-in” surface plasmons with large-scale electron-ion charge-separation which leads to tens of TVm−1 fields. The crunch-in surface plasmons are thus strongly electrostatic unlike other plasmonic modes. Access to unprecedented plasmonic fields opens far-reaching possibilities for transformative impact.
Hypereosinophilic Syndrome

Hypereosinophilic syndrome consists of a group of disorders characterized by abnormal accumulation of eosinophils in the blood or peripheral tissues, independent of known secondary causes of eosinophilia such as parasitic infection. Clinical manifestations of the condition are highly variable, ranging from asymptomatic eosinophilia to severe tissue damage and end-organ failure. This entity has been recognized for decades, with early studies identifying distinct groups of patients with differing symptoms, exam findings, laboratory abnormalities, and prognosis. In the past, these patients were treated with non-targeted immunosuppressive agents, often with limited efficacy. More recently, advances in the knowledge of eosinophil biology and molecular diagnostics have allowed for more specific delineation of the many disease subgroups that characterize hypereosinophilic syndrome. Identification of these groups has led to a personalized management approach to the condition, with improved diagnostic techniques as well as stratification of patients into more effective treatment groups. This review will discuss the evolution of the definition of hypereosinophilic syndrome, outline current disease classifications, provide a guide for evaluation and monitoring, and discuss current and future therapeutic modalities.