cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Multiple-frequency surface acoustic wave devices as sensors

A multiple-frequency acoustic wave (MUFAW) device has been developed, fabricated, and tested on ST-cut quartz with nominal surface acoustic wave (SAW) center frequencies of 16, 40, 100, and 250 MHz. The four frequencies are obtained by patterning four sets of input and output interdigital transducers of differing periodicities on a single substrate. Such a device allows the frequency dependence of AW sensor perturbations to be examined, aiding in the elucidation of the operative interaction mechanism(s). Initial measurements of the SAW response to the vacuum deposition of a thin nickel film show the expected frequency dependence of mass sensitivity in addition to the expected frequency independence of the magnitude of the acoustoelectric effect. Measuring changes in both wave velocity and attenuation at multiple frequencies allows extrinsic perturbations such as temperature and pressure changes to be readily differentiated from one another and from changes in surface mass. >
2-Hour Cytomegalovirus pp65 Antigenemia Assay for Rapid Quantitation of Cytomegalovirus in Blood Samples

Of 109 blood samples tested for cytomegalovirus (CMV) antigenemia, 18 (16.5%) were positive. CMV Brite detected 13 and CMV Brite Turbo detected 16 of the 18 positives. There was no significant difference in the number of positive cells detected per sample. The seven discrepant samples contained a median of only one positive cell.
Modeling of Scintillation Cameras With Multi-Zone Architecture and Pileup Prevention Circuitry

Existing models for the scintillation camera are limited to designs based on pulse-mode operation, although some cameras are now able to process two or more gamma-ray interactions at a time. Techniques for improving count-rate capability basically do so by reducing camera deadtime, and include division of the detector into multiple geographical zones, use of special algorithms to identify temporally-overlapping events that are spatially independent in the crystal, and use of pileup prevention circuitry (PPC) for recovering one or more events from multiple pileup interactions. Minimization of deadtime effects in other ways has been confined to limiting the camera's operating range to the 20% count-loss point, despite mathematical models showing that this can be extended to the peak response point by correction of count losses, with residual errors of 10% or less in the corrected rate. The present paper describes a comprehensive camera model for single-zone and multi-zone operation without and with PPC, including correction of deadtime losses. While multi-zone architecture and PPC both increase camera sensitivity, and hence improve contrast resolution in the image. Multi-zone operation, however, also reduces the generation of misplaced pileup events, which is one major cause of image blurring. Correction of count losses restores the detector's sensitivity and contrast-to-noise ratio to the values they would have if deadtime effects were not present. The operating range of a five-zone detector, with PPC of order 1 and with correction of count losses, for instance, enables the input-rate range to be extended to as much as 100 times that of the basic camera, with less than 1% residual error in the corrected rate. Because of greatly increased camera sensitivity obtainable in this way, it becomes possible to trade some of the detector's sensitivity for increased spatial resolution in the collimator and the detector crystal. Since nuclear cameras and PET scanners currently have substantially lower spatial resolutions than CT and MRI, and nuclear images are now increasingly being integrated with images from these imaging modalities in hybrid, or fusion, imaging, improvement of the spatial resolutions of nuclear cameras becomes even more desirable. A realistic model not only is a useful aid to a good understanding of camera operation and the interplay of its parameters in dictating performance, but also a logical starting point for the researcher seeking to develop improved new designs, or to optimize image-processing software for existing ones.
Cystatin C Identifies Patients With Stable Chronic Heart Failure at Increased Risk for Adverse Cardiovascular Events

Background— Renal function is a strong predictor of adverse events in heart failure. Current renal function measures are imperfect, and cystatin C (CysC) is promoted as a better marker of glomerular filtration rate. This study compares the prognostic use of CysC and derived glomerular filtration rate estimates with other measures of renal function in patients with chronic heart failure. Methods and Results— We measured serum CysC levels in 823 patients with heart failure undergoing coronary angiography with follow-up of major adverse cardiovascular events (death, myocardial infarction, stroke). CysC levels strongly correlated with creatinine ( r =0.73), blood urea nitrogen ( r =0.70), and estimated glomerular filtration rate by the 4-variable modification of diet in renal disease equation ( r =−0.62) (all P <0.001). However, the correlation was lower in estimated glomerular filtration rate ≥60 mL/min per 1.73 m2. CysC-based measures significantly improved areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve for the prediction of major adverse cardiovascular events, especially in estimated glomerular filtration rate ≥60 mL/min per 1.73 m2 ( P <0.01). Net reclassification improvement was 22.2% ( P <0.001) in this group. CysC remained an independent predictor of major adverse cardiovascular events ( P <0.001) after adjustment for traditional risk factors and brain natriuretic peptide. Conclusions— CysC is an independent predictor of adverse events in chronic heart failure. It adds prognostic value to creatinine, particularly in patients with preserved renal function.
Searching for universal features of conversation

(1990). Searching for universal features of conversation. Research on Language and Social Interaction: Vol. 24, No. 1-4, pp. 351-368.
PLASMA DRUG CONCENTRATIONS: DESCRIPTION AND INTERPRETATION OF THE BIEXPONENTIAL DECAY

Information about the time course of the plasma concentrations of a drug after its i.v. bolus injection is necessary for understanding the time course of the effect of the drug. If an investigator has established that the time course of the plasma concentrations conforms to a biexponential function, understanding the data is facilitated by description of the time course which simply summarizes the data in a quantitative fashion and interpretation of the findings based on certain assumptions. Interpretation may be based on the assumption of compartments, or on a "whole body" approach. The experimentally obtained plasma concentrations of a drug may be described quantitatively by an equation and, if the "whole body" interpretation is selected in preference tot he compartmental interpretation, the four parameters are: the initial and the terminal volumes of distribution (Vc and Vterm) and the rate constants for the loss from Vc and for the dilution within the whole body (k(loss) and k(mix), respectively).
Thinned array configurations for use with satellite-based adaptive antennas

The nulling resolution of an adaptive antenna determines that the spatial extent about an interference source over which the communication system's link margin is unacceptably low when the radiation pattern is shaped to place a null on interference sources present over the antenna field of view. This resolution is inversely related to D/\lambda , indicating that large apertures are required to achieve very narrow resolution. In order to achieve good resolution with few elements, highly thinned arrays are commonly employed. Thinned array configurations optimized in performance in accordance with specific criteria are developed. These criteria are used to optimize the element positions within the array considering both the close-in nulling resolution and the average coverage area over a fixed circular field of view for which it is desired that system users have a positive link margin to a satellite at a geosynchronous altitude. It is determined that the circular array configuration, with elements equispaced on the circle, generally produces the best close-in nulling resolution against arbitrary interference scenarios for large values of D/\lambda . However, the average coverage area of this array is compromised due to the high sidelobes and grating lobes generated by this configuration. Thus other array configurations are considered. It is shown that exponentially space tapering the elements on the circle improves the average coverage area with little loss in resolution but leads to element spacings which might be incompatible with finite element size constraints in a practical design. Consequently, a third array configuration, developed according to standard synthesis techniques for nonuniform arrays, is also considered and shown to lead to good performance.
Growth and toxicity of Prymnesium parvum (Haptophyta) as a function of salinity, light, and temperature

The growth rate, stationary cell concentration, and toxicity of Prymnesium parvum N. Carter were measured using a strain isolated from Texas inland waters. We used a multifactor experimental approach with multiple regression analysis to determine the importance of environmental factors, including temperature, light, and salinity to these algal measurements. Exponential growth rate was unimodal in relation to temperature, salinity, and irradiance, with an estimated maximal growth of 0.94 d−1 occurring at 27°C, 22 practical salinity units (psu), and 275 μmol photons·m−2·s−1. Stationary cell concentrations also had unimodal responses to temperature and salinity but increased with irradiance. Maximal cell concentrations were estimated to occur at 26°C and 22 psu. Both maximum growth rate and highest stationary cell concentrations were measured at levels of each factor resembling warm, estuarine conditions that differ from the conditions under which blooms occur in inland waters in the southwestern United States. Acute toxicity to fish was highest at the lowest salinity and temperature levels, conditions not optimal for exponential growth but similar to those under which blooms occur in inland waters. Our results imply that summer blooms could occur in inland waters of the southwestern United States. Generally, they have not, suggesting that factors other than those investigated in this research influence bloom dynamics.
Deoxyribonucleic acid relatedness of 24 xanthomonad strains representing 23 Xanthomonas campestris pathovars and Xanthomonas fragariae.

Twenty Xanthomonas campestris pathotype strains, three non-pathotype strains, and one strain of X. fragariae were studied by S1 DNA:DNA hybridization tests. The results of these tests do not support the retention of X. campestris as a single species. DNA reassociation values among many of the strains were low. Three clusters of closely related strains were observed, but nine strains did not cluster. Xanthomonas campestris pv. secalis was more closely related to X. fragariae than to any other X. campestris pathovar. Mapping the host family upon a three-dimensional genomic distance matrix of the xanthomonads suggested that strains attacking the same plant family usually show some relationship, but only a distant one. Thus, pathogenicity toward members of the same host family is not a measure of the genomic relationships of xanthomonads.
Emergency department use after pediatric pharmaceutical ingestion: comparison of two national databases.

Background. As no “gold standard” measure exists for the number of children evaluated in emergency departments (EDs) for medication-related injuries, the public health impact is based on estimates. In January 2006 the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report published a National Electronic Injury Surveillance System–All Injury Program (NEISS–AIP) estimate on unintentional pediatric medication exposure to children ≤4 years of age that resulted in an ED visit: 53,517 per year for the period 2001–2003. We sought to generate a parallel estimate using American Association of Poison Control Centers' (AAPCC) National Poison Data System (NPDS) to see how these estimates compare. Methods. To match data reported from the NEISS–AIP, NPDS was searched for the electronic medical records of children ≤4 years of age whose call type was an unintentional exposure to a pharmaceutical that involved presenting to a health care facility (HCF) in 2001–2003. Results. 178,513 met all of the criteria: 57,100 in 2001; 60,098 in 2002...
Mitochondrial Genome Haplotype Hypervariation within the Isopod Parasitic Nematode Thaumamermis Cosgrovei

Characterization of mitochondrial genomes from individual Thaumamermis cosgrovei nematodes, obligate parasites of the isopod Armadillidium vulgare, revealed that numerous mtDNA haplotypes, ranging in size from 19 to 34 kb, are maintained in several spatially separated isopod populations. The magnitude and frequency of conspecific mtDNA size variation is unprecedented among all studied size-polymorphic metazoan mitochondrial genomes. To understand the molecular basis of this hypervariation, complete nucleotide sequences of two T. cosgrovei mtDNA haplotypes were determined. A hypervariable segment, residing between the atp6 and rrnL genes, contributes exclusively to T. cosgrovei mtDNA size variation. Within this region, mtDNA coding genes and putative nonfunctional sequences have accumulated substitutions and are duplicated and rearranged to varying extents. Hypervariation at this level has enabled a first insight into the life history of T. cosgrovei. In five A. vulgare hosts infected with multiple nematodes, four carried nematodes with identical mtDNA haplotypes, suggesting that hosts may become infected by ingesting a recently hatched egg clutch or become parasitized by individuals from the same brood prior to dispersal of siblings within the soil.
3D spatially encoded and accelerated TE-averaged echo planar spectroscopic imaging in healthy human brain.

Several different pathologies, including many neurodegenerative disorders, affect the energy metabolism of the brain. Glutamate, a neurotransmitter in the brain, can be used as a biomarker to monitor these metabolic processes. One method that is capable of quantifying glutamate concentration reliably in several regions of the brain is TE-averaged (1) H spectroscopic imaging. However, this type of method requires the acquisition of multiple TE lines, resulting in long scan durations. The goal of this experiment was to use non-uniform sampling, compressed sensing reconstruction and an echo planar readout gradient to reduce the scan time by a factor of eight to acquire TE-averaged spectra in three spatial dimensions. Simulation of glutamate and glutamine showed that the 2.2-2.4 ppm spectral region contained 95% glutamate signal using the TE-averaged method. Peak integration of this spectral range and home-developed, prior-knowledge-based fitting were used for quantitation. Gray matter brain phantom measurements were acquired on a Siemens 3 T Trio scanner. Non-uniform sampling was applied retrospectively to these phantom measurements and quantitative results of glutamate with respect to creatine 3.0 (Glu/Cr) ratios showed a coefficient of variance of 16% for peak integration and 9% for peak fitting using eight-fold acceleration. In vivo scans of the human brain were acquired as well and five different brain regions were quantified using the prior-knowledge-based algorithm. Glu/Cr ratios from these regions agreed with previously reported results in the literature. The method described here, called accelerated TE-averaged echo planar spectroscopic imaging (TEA-EPSI), is a significant methodological advancement and may be a useful tool for categorizing glutamate changes in pathologies where affected brain regions are not known a priori. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Visualizing some benefits of parallel computing with Julia sets: nifty assignment

One of the fundamental benefits that can often be realized with parallel computing is speedup, faster execution than the corresponding sequential program. Computing Julia Sets is an example of a task that theoretically can have ideal speedup, as there is no dependence between the values of any pixels (i.e. each pixel can be calculated independently). However, systems will have different types of overhead that will interfere with reaching this ideal.
Capital, Energy, and Labor Cross-Substitution Elasticities in a Developing Country: The Case of Greek Manufacturing

The sizeable and abrupt increase of petroleum costs in late 1973 and early 1974 confronted economies of oil-importing countries with the serious problem of restructuring their productive technology to deal with new relative factor costs. Government policies of developing countries like Greece with high growth-rate requirements had to meet the challenge of overcoming the adjustment cost posed by the sudden doubling of petroleum prices, maintaining at the same time economic stability, while threatened by the inflationary influence of increased energy costs and the loss of scarce foreign exchange resources redirected to petroleum imports. Policy makers correctly identified the need for an accelerated shift in technology choice of new and existing industries necessary to achieve the new “optimal” mix of productive factors, namely, to substitute energy by other inputs. To that purpose, the following two broad policy instruments were utilized.1 Firstly, the government chose to depart from its long-practiced policy of subsidies to manufacturing in the form of cheap energy. Detailed engineering studies investigated the true expected replacement cost of converted energy (electricity) and the scarcity value of domestic resources (lignite, hydro).
Necrotising pneumonia and bronchiectasis in a previously healthy 30-year-old man

We present a case of a previously healthy 30-year-old man who presented with a necrotising pneumonia and bronchiectasis. His infectious workup revealed a Staphylococcus aureus pneumonia. Since bronchiectasis and necrotising pneumonia are unusual findings in an otherwise healthy person, further investigation was pursued. His workup revealed non-classic cystic fibrosis (CF) and allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA). This case discusses the differential diagnosis of bronchiectasis, the diagnosis and treatment of ABPA, and the role of CF mutations in the pathogenesis of ABPA.
Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry in clinical practice: new guidelines and concerns.

Purpose of review To summarize recent policy and guideline updates that have significant consequences for the clinical use of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) in the diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis and, thus, the prevention of fractures and associated morbidity and mortality. Recent findings Recent policy trends have sought to reverse reimbursement declines for DXA services, whereas updated guidelines have attempted to restrict the candidates for bone density testing. Recent literature reflects the ongoing controversy of repeat DXA testing. Summary Patient access to DXA scans has been threatened by declining reimbursement and, therefore, access to diagnosis and fracture prevention. There have been successful efforts to reverse this trend, but the future remains uncertain. The complexities and omissions of updated guidelines for obtaining DXA testing may serve again to restrict initial access, and the recent controversy of repeat DXA testing may make monitoring results of therapy more difficult.
Observations on in vitro and in vivo agglutination of platelets by "bound" insulin concentrates.

SummaryData have been presented indicating that partially purified preparations of “bound” insulin have the ability to cause hemorrhage, thrombosis and non-coagulability of blood when injected intravenously into 48-hour-fasted rats. Similar injections into fed rats produced no apparent pathology. Heparin (0.1 mg) injected simultaneously with “bound” insulin concentrates into fasted animals prevented the occurrence of hemorrhage and thrombosis. Crystalline insulin (1 to 5 milliunits), injected in the same manner as heparin either partially or completely inhibited the production of hemorrhage and thrombosis in the fasted rats. It was also observed that “bound” insulin concentrates aggregated platelets in vitro. No platelets could be found in the uncoagulated blood from fasted rats injected intravenously with “bound” insulin. It is suggested that the vascular changes observed are related to platelet agglutination induced by “bound” insulin and the nutritional status of the animals.
Polynomial Arithmetic Using Sequential Stochastic Logic

We present the design of stochastic computing systems based on sequential logic to implement arbitrary polynomial functions. Stochastic computing is an emerging alternative computing paradigm that performs arithmetic operations on real-valued data represented as random bitstreams using digital logic gates. Stochastic computing systems are capable of realizing complex mathematical operations using a small number of hardware resources by expressing the computation in terms of probabilities. Moreover, the stochastic representation of data using random bitstreams is extremely robust against bit errors. We present a systematic approach to implement arbitrary polynomial functions in stochastic computing using sequential logic, and compare our approach against prior conventional and stochastic implementations.
Risk assessment of main vector-borne diseases in Tianjin, China

Objective To assess the risk of vector borne diseases in Tianjin, China by risk recognition and assessment methods and to prevent the incidence and prevalence of vector borne diseases.MethodsThe risk of vector borne diseases was graded by comprehensively analyzing the probability and consequence of risk events.ResultsIn Tianjin, the density of rodents decreased year by year from 2008 to 2012(0.64%-0.19%); the captured rodents had a negative indirect hemagglutination test for plague F1 antibody; hantavirus was detected in 0.85% of rodents in 2011 but not in 2012. The mean densities of mosquitoes were 14.11, 15.04, 16.64, 18.82, and 11.09 mosquitoes/lamp·h; no pathogens were detected in mosquitoes in recent years. In Tianjin, the prevalence of mosquito borne diseases, such as malaria, dengue fever, and Japanese encephalitis, and rodent borne diseases, such as plague and hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome, were at low risk.ConclusionCertain risk of vector borne diseases does exist in Tianjin. In order to prevent and control the incidence and prevalence of vector borne diseases, it is necessary to strengthen the surveillance of vector density and pathogens carried by main vectors, enhance the knowledge among residents, and make good preparation for the potential introduction and disposal of vector borne pathogens.
On Cultural Cannotation of the Stele of Duke Longxi Sacrificing to Jishui River

Sacrificing culture to Jishui River occupied an important position in the history of sacrifice to mountains and rivers in China.The inscription,Duke Longxi sacrificing to Jishui river,in the second year of Qianyou in latter Han dynasty,recorded the process of sacrifice and reflected the random of Five dynasties.Through analyzing the cultural cannotation of this inscription,we could understand the political and social conditions in Five Dynasties more objectively.
Improved Contacts to MoS2 Transistors by Ultra-High Vacuum Metal Deposition

The scaling of transistors to sub-10 nm dimensions is strongly limited by their contact resistance (RC). Here we present a systematic study of scaling MoS2 devices and contacts with varying electrode metals and controlled deposition conditions, over a wide range of temperatures (80 to 500 K), carrier densities (1012 to 1013 cm–2), and contact dimensions (20 to 500 nm). We uncover that Au deposited in ultra-high vacuum (∼10–9 Torr) yields three times lower RC than under normal conditions, reaching 740 Ω·μm and specific contact resistivity 3 × 10–7 Ω·cm2, stable for over four months. Modeling reveals separate RC contributions from the Schottky barrier and the series access resistance, providing key insights on how to further improve scaling of MoS2 contacts and transistor dimensions. The contact transfer length is ∼35 nm at 300 K, which is verified experimentally using devices with 20 nm contacts and 70 nm contact pitch (CP), equivalent to the “14 nm” technology node.
The role of case managers in a United Kingdom experiment with self-directed care.

While the concept of consumer-directed care is becoming increasingly popular in the U.S., little is known about how such programs work or the critical role of case managers within them. This article reviews a 5-year initiative in the United Kingdom in which severely disabled, chronically ill adults were given cash to pay for in-home care which they themselves arrange. The genesis of the program and how it operated are described here. In particular, the responsibilities of case managers are outlined along with their role in determining the amount of assistance needed by clients in the program. A profile of program clients is also provided with data on their levels of in-home support.
Two-dimensional effects in counterflow methane flames

Abstract The effect of flowfield geometry on flame propagation and extinction of atmospheric CH4/N2/air flames was studied in the counterflow configuration. Laminar flame speeds and extinction strain rates for lean premixed and non-premixed flames were measured in axisymmetric burners producing either uniform or non-uniform axial velocity exit profiles. Particle image velocimetry was used to characterize the two-dimensional flowfield between the burners. The experiments were modeled with a one-dimensional code and a detailed C2 hydrocarbon kinetic model. Laminar flame speeds were found to be insensitive to the burner exit velocity profile shape but extinction measurements were strongly affected. In non-uniform flows, two-dimensional flow field measurements revealed significant radial dependence of flow quantities and high-speed video captured off-center initiation of extinction. Thus, centerline measurements did not represent the extinction state properly, given the direct contradiction to one-dimensional modeling assumptions, and the data was deemed unreliable for kinetic model validation. Flames in uniform flows were found to exhibit minimal radial dependence with extinction initiating at near-centerline locations.
How experts' mental model affects 3D image segmentation

3D image segmentation is a fundamental process in many scientific and medical applications. Automatic algorithms do exist, but there are many use cases where these algorithms fail. The gold standard is still manual segmentation or review. Unfortunately, existing 3D segmentation tools do not currently take into account human mental models, low-level perception actions, and higher-level cognitive tasks. Our goal is to improve the quality and efficiency of manual segmentation by analyzing the process in terms of human mental models and low-level perceptual tasks. Preliminary results from our in-depth field studies suggest that compared to novices, experts have a stronger mental model of the 3D structures they segment. To validate this assumption, we introduce a novel test instrument to explore experts' mental model in the context of 3D image segmentation. We use this test instrument to measure individual differences in various spatial segmentation and visualization tasks. The tasks involve identifying valid 2D contours, slicing planes and 3D shapes.
Case Report: Agenesis of Right Pulmonary Artery

A young woman with absence of the right pulmonary artery was presented. The diagnosis was suspected on a chest x-ray and confirmed with a lung scan.
First and Second Year Gerontology Students: Research Activities Heightened Connectedness to Learning.

The purpose of this study was to measure 1st- and 2nd-year students’ engagement as a result of a qualitative inquiry and field experiences with elders residing in an independent and assisted living...
City-scale mapping of pets using georeferenced images

We investigate the mapping of pet activity using social media. Specifically, we perform cat and dog detection in a large collection of georeferenced images in San Francisco. We compare detection based on keyword search in user-supplied tags to detection based on image content using state-of-the-art deep-learning classification methods. The resulting city-scale spatial distribution of cat and dog activity makes sense based on our knowledge of the region. Our approach represents a general framework for mapping phenomena that are difficult to observe through traditional means.
Postoperative Sternal Complications

There is a large spectrum from mild to life-threatening complications including sternal instability, wound healing disorder, and infected sternal instability with sepsis at its far end. Pathogenesis is discussed controversially, but various risk factors such as obesity, osteoporosis, chronic-obstructive lung disease, prolonged ventilation time, and bilateral use of the internal mammary artery during coronary bypass surgery have been identified. As the laboratory evaluation is often unremarkable, diagnosis is primarily established by palpation and thoracic computed tomography. Restabilization of the sternum can be achieved with rewiring or plate fixation and reconstructive coverage of the defect by plastic surgery in the case of extensive bone loss. Infected superficial wounds can be cleaned of necrotic tissue and thereafter closed again. Large defects and extensive infection with uncertain spread are mostly treated with negative-pressure wound therapy (NPWT); definite closure follows once the bottom of the wound is clean. Closed chest tube drainage with irrigation system may serve as alternative in less severe infection.
La France contemporaine face au défi de la créolisation

Inspired by Jane Gordon's book, Creolizing Political Theory: Reading Rousseau through Fanon , this article examines the paradoxes of Creolization within the French context. How do post-colonial French identities of Maghrebi, Sub-Saharan African or Caribbean descent Creolize French society? Instead of being an opportunity that must be seized by the Nation, why is creolization perceived as an imminent threat to the Republic? How can one think of Creolizing politics in the former colonial power? How does Creolization compel us to rethink how we live together? And how does it require us to rethink freedom and equality for all? These are the questions at the heart of this article.
Disparities in Postpartum Contraceptive Counseling and Provision Among Mothers of Preterm Infants

Abstract Objective: Use of effective contraception could be one method to decrease recurrent preterm birth by increasing intervals between pregnancies. We assessed correlates of contraceptive counseling and uptake among women who delivered preterm. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study of women who delivered live-born singletons or twins before 32 weeks' gestation. We assessed documented contraceptive counseling and method uptake by postpartum discharge, using inpatient medical records, and correlates of highly effective contraception uptake by the postpartum visit using outpatient records. Results: Of 594 eligible women, 44.6% (n = 265) had documented inpatient contraceptive counseling, but only 21.4% (n = 127) left the hospital using a World Health Organization (WHO) tier 1 or 2 method. Women who were younger, non-Hispanic black, multiparous, and delivered at earlier gestational ages were more likely to have inpatient counseling documented. Compared with women with private insuranc...
Differential inhibition of collagenase and interleukin-1alpha gene expression in cultured corneal fibroblasts by TGF-beta, dexamethasone, and retinoic acid.

PURPOSE Expression of the genes for collagenase and interleukin-1alpha (IL-1alpha) are induced as stromal cells become activated to the repair fibroblast phenotype after injury to the cornea. This investigation examines the mechanisms whereby expression of these genes is inhibited by transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta), dexamethasone (DEX), or retinoic acid (RET A). METHODS A model of freshly isolated cultures of corneal stromal cells and early passage cultures of corneal fibroblasts was used in these studies. This model reproduces the events of stromal cell activation in the corneal wound. RESULTS In early passage cultures of corneal fibroblasts, expression of collagenase is under obligatory control by autocrine IL-1alpha. IL-1alpha controls its own expression through an autocrine feedback loop that is dependent on transcription factor NF-kappaB. TGF-beta, DEX, and RET A were each effective inhibitors of collagenase gene expression in these cells. Furthermore, these agents have the capacity to inhibit expression of IL-1alpha and this was correlated with their ability to affect DNA-binding activity of NF-kappaB. However, TGF-beta, DEX, and RET A were also effective inhibitors of the low level of collagenase expressed by freshly isolated corneal stromal cells that cannot express IL-1alpha. CONCLUSIONS In cells with an active IL-1alpha autocrine loop there are at least two distinct signaling pathways by which collagenase gene expression can be modulated. The results of this study demonstrate that TGF-beta, DEX, and RET A differentially inhibit collagenase and IL-1alpha gene expression. This information will be useful in the design of therapeutic modalities for fibrotic disease in the cornea and other parts of the eye.
Normal bone marrow as obtained by sternal puncture.

A study of aspirated sternal bone marrow of 50 normal human adult volunteer subjects has been presented. Samples of exactly 3 cc. each were collected in a uniform manner. The technic of performing total nucleated cell counts, differential counts, reticulocyte counts, and megakaryocyte counts has been described and the results given. These results have been subjected to statistical analysis and compared with those of other workers.
MOSFETs below 10 nm: quantum theory

Abstract We have carried out numerical modeling of sub-10-nm dual-gate SOI MOSFETs with ultra-thin, intrinsic (undoped) channel connecting bulk, n + -doped source and drain, using self-consistent solution of the 1D Schrodinger equation and 2D Poisson equation for electrons within the channel. The results confirm that transistors with gate as short as 2 nm still can provide voltage gain above unity, though below ∼5 nm their characteristics are extremely sensitive to the device dimensions.
Changes in benthic invertebrate communities of central Appalachian streams attributed to hemlock woody adelgid invasion

Eastern hemlock trees (Tsuga canadensis [L.] Carr.) often dominate riparian vegetation of central Appalachian headwater streams, and the invasive hemlock woolly adelgid (Adelges tsugae Annand; HWA) has decimated hemlock stands in this region. Although research concerning HWA impacts on soil, hydrology, and forest structure is emerging, associated changes in stream structure and function are not as well documented. We quantified HWA-invasion effects on benthic macroinvertebrate communities in 21 headwater streams across Ohio, West Virginia, and Virginia (USA) representing unimpacted, moderate invasion, and severe invasion, respectively. We observed differences in benthic macroinvertebrate community composition; severely invaded sites exhibited the highest diversity, whereas moderate sites had the lowest diversity. The composition of macroinvertebrate functional feeding groups exhibited shifts as well. For example, the relative abundance of herbivorous invertebrates increased from 4% (± 3%) at unimpacted sites to 23% (± 14%) at severely impacted sites. Changes in macroinvertebrate density, diversity, and functional-group composition were associated with sediment grainsize distribution (proportion bedrock and D84), large-wood characteristics (volume and density), and nutrient concentrations (PO4 and NH4). Our results suggest that in-stream physical and chemical alterations associated with HWA-invasion and subsequent hemlock decline are associated with changes in stream invertebrate diversity and trophic relationships. We demonstrate how a pervasive terrestrial invader can influence in-stream biotic communities.
AFM study: Cell cycle and probe geometry influences nanomechanical characterization of Panc1 cells

Atomic force microscope (AFM) is emerging as an immensely promising tool to study the cellular morphology with a nanometer scale resolution and to analyze nanomechanical properties (NPs) at various physiological conditions. Advancement of AFM technology enables studying living cells and differentiating cancer cell from normal cells based on topography and NPs. Though the trend overlaps from different literature; numerical values of nanomechanical readouts depict variations over a wide range. These anomalies are associated with the experimental setup under study. In this manuscript, we have identified heterogeneity in cell culture system in addition to the selection of AFM probe with specific tip geometry as the major contributors to the above mentioned anomalies. To test our hypothesis, we have used Panc1 cells, which is a pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cell type. Our results suggest that the cellular morphology, membrane roughness and NPs calculated from AFM study are distinctly influenced by cell cycle. Furthermore, we found that the NPs readout is also significantly associated with AFM tip geometries. The cells were found to be softer in their early resting phase when indented with pyramidal probe and became increasingly stiffer as they progressed through the cell cycles. On the contrary, when indented with the spherical probe, cells in G0/G1 phase were observed to be the stiffest. Such an exhaustive study of the role of cell cycle in influencing the NPs in Panc1 cell line along with the impact of tip geometry on NPs is the first of its kind, to the best of our knowledge.
Association between sociodemographic characteristics and sexual behaviors among a nationally representative sample of adolescent students in Brazil.

Abstract: Although low socioeconomic status (SES) adolescents suffer from higher rates of adverse sexual and reproductive health outcomes, evidence on the association between SES and sexual behaviors has been less consistent. A cross-sectional analysis of the association between sociodemographic characteristics (household wealth, maternal education and race/ethnicity) and sexual behaviors (sexual initiation, multiple sexual partners, inconsistent condom use and inconsistent contraceptive use) of Brazilian adolescents was carried out using the 2015 Brazilian National Survey of School Health (PeNSE), a nationally representative school-based survey of 102,301 adolescents. Analyses included multivariable logistic models, which accounted for geographic and family characteristics. About 27.5% of adolescents were sexually initiated. Household wealth was associated with female sexual initiation, while race/ethnicity was associated with condom use and multiple sexual partners among males. For instance, black males had 35% higher odds of having multiple partners (aOR = 1.35, 95%CI: 1.13-1.62), but 22% lower odds of condom use (aOR = 0.78, 95%CI: 0.65-0.94), compared to white males. Frequent parental supervision was positively related to condom use (females, aOR = 1.28, 95%CI: 1.10-1.49; and males, aOR = 1.33, 95%CI: 1.18- 1.49). Results show the complex relationship between SES and sexual behaviors. Researchers should pay attention to gender, racial and social norms salient to adolescent sexual behaviors, as they can influence data collection and results. National policies should also support active parental supervision, since it can be a protective factor.
Shape optimization under uncertainty for rotor blades of horizontal axis wind turbines

Abstract We present a computational framework for the shape optimization of a Horizontal-Axis Wind Turbine (HAWT) rotor blade under uncertainty. Our framework integrates aerodynamic simulations based on the blade element method which utilizes reduced order models of the blade structure and wind load with design sensitivity analysis and nonlinear programming. The wind velocity is modeled as a stochastic process to account for variations in time and space. An additional stochastic process accounts for uncertainties in the structural material properties. The uncertainty propagation is based on a non-intrusive polynomial chaos expansion that allows accurate estimation of stochastic performance metrics such as generated power and structural compliance. Sensitivities of cost and constraint functions with respect to shape parameters namely twist angles are computed with an efficient scheme to enable gradient based optimization. To demonstrate the effect of uncertainty, designs obtained from optimization under uncertainty are compared to those obtained from deterministic optimization.
Model Predictive Selection: A Receding Horizon Scheme for Actuator Selection

We propose a model predictive scheme for selecting actuators in dynamical systems. In control applications, selection problems arise due to the high cost associated to simultaneously using all sensors or actuators in large-scale systems. Since these problems are NP-hard in general, finding an optimal solutions is impractical and approximations based on greedy or convex relaxations are commonly used. In most approaches, however, the control policy and actuator subsets are obtained a priori. In this work, we address the online problem using a model predictive selection (MPS). This iterative procedure inspired by model predictive control methods determines a near-optimal actuator subset for a finite operation horizon starting at the current state, applies the first control action on this subset, and repeats the procedure starting from the new state. Despite using suboptimal solutions of the selection problem, we derive conditions that guarantee this procedure is stable. We illustrate these conditions for the LQR problem by leveraging the concept of approximate submodularity and conclude with numerical experiments that showcase the use of the proposed approach.
In the Trenches: Teaching and Learning Sociology

It is irresponsible for us, as educators, to assume we can teach a topic just because we happen to be scholars in the field. Teaching proficiency does not come naturally or necessarily through prac...
Immune landscape of a genetically-engineered murine model of glioma relative to human glioma by single-cell sequencing

SUMMARY Background This study focuses on the evaluation of intratumoral immune infiltrates of the Qk/trp53/Pten (QPP) triple-knockout mouse model of glioblastoma with the purpose of establishing its relevance compared to the human disease. This included an analysis at the single cell level, of immune cells composition in both spontaneous and implanted mouse tumors and of samples obtained from human tumor resections. Methods We analyzed a cohort of fifteen spontaneous QPP mice, nine implanted QPP mice and 10 glioma patients by standard immune profiling methods such as IHC. Of those, we analyzed three spontaneous QPP mice, three implanted QPP mice, and 10 glioma patients by single cell RNA sequencing. Results In the QPP samples we identified a predominantly myeloid cell population of monocytes, macrophages, and microglia, with minor populations of T, B, and NK cells. When comparing spontaneous and implanted mouse samples, we found that there were more neutrophil, T and NKT cells in the implanted model. In human samples, most of the lymphoid and myeloid compartments were immunosuppressive. While the complexity of the myeloid cell populations is preserved between the QPP model and the human disease, we observed significantly more immune-stimulatory populations in the implanted mouse model. Conclusions We found that, despite differences at the subpopulation level, the immunosuppressive nature of the immune system in glioma, is recapitulated in our mouse model. Although we observed differences in the proportions of immune infiltrates derived from the spontaneous and implanted mouse models and in LGG compared to GBM, the major constituents are present in all cases and these differences may be caused by various etiological or pathogenic influences on tumor-immune interactions. Key Points New GBM mouse model for immunotherapy Single cell profiling of the immune systems in human and mouse GBM
A combined case of wernicke and metronidazole induced encephalopathy? Overlapping pathophysiologic pathways and MR imaging features.

Abstract Diagnostic and treatment delay of Wernicke encephalopathy (WE) is an unfavorably common occurrence owing to its variable clinical presentations. The clinical and imaging features of atypical (nonalcoholic) WE in particular, overlaps considerably with metronidazole induced encephalopathy (MIE), which may further complicate diagnosis and management. We discuss the case of a nutritionally deficient, nonalcoholic male with progressive encephalopathy and significant metronidazole use who presented with features of both WE and MIE. Increased vigilance for these conditions in patients with non-specific neurologic signs is critical for timely diagnosis to prevent irreversible cognitive dysfunction or death.
A Decision Support Framework for Grid-Aware Electric Bus Charge Scheduling

While there are many advantages to electric publictransit vehicles, they also pose new challenges for fleet operators. One key challenge is defining a charge scheduling policy that minimizes operating costs and power grid disruptions while maintaining schedule adherence. An uncoordinated policy could result in buses running out of charge before completing their trip, while a grid agnostic policy might incur higher energy costs or cause adverse impact on the grid's distribution system. We present a grid aware decision theoretic framework for electric bus charge scheduling that accounts for energy price and grid load The framework co-simulates models for traffic (Simulation of Urban Mobility) and the electric grid (GridLAB_D), which are used by a decision theoretic planner to evaluate charging decisions with regard to their long-term effect on grid reliability and cost. We evaluated the framework on a simulation of Richland, WA's bus and grid network, and found that it could save over $100k per year on operating costs for the city compared togreedy methods.
Integral spinors, Apollonian disk packings, and Descartes groups

We show that every irreducible integral Apollonian packing can be set in the Euclidean space so that all of its tangency spinors and all reduced coordinates and co-curvatures are integral. As a byproduct, we prove that in any integral Descartes configuration, the sum of the curvatures of two adjacent disks can be written as a sum of two squares. Descartes groups are defined, and an interesting occurrence of the Fibonacci sequence is found.
Three-Dimensional Particle Tracking Velocimetry using a Single Time-of-Flight Camera

Time of Flight (ToF) cameras are a type of range-imaging camera that provides three-dimensional scene information from a single camera. This paper assesses the ability of ToF technology to be used for threedimensional particle tracking velocimetry (3D-PTV). Using a commercially available ToF camera various aspects of 3D-PTV are considered, including: minimum resolvable particle size, environmental factors (reflections and refractive index changes) and time resolution. Although it is found that an off-the-shelf ToF camera is not a viable alternative to traditional 3D-PTV measurement systems, basic 3D-PTV measurements are shown with large (6mm) particles in both air and water to demonstrate future potential use as this technology develops. A summary of necessary technological advances is also discussed.