cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Endophthalmitis caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Abstract Objective To investigate the clinical settings and treatment outcomes for endophthalmitis caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa . Design Retrospective, noncomparative, consecutive case series. Methods The medical records were reviewed of all patients treated for P. aeruginosa endophthalmitis at a single institution between January 1, 1987, and December 31, 2001. Main outcome measures Final visual acuity and rate of enucleation or evisceration. Results The study included 28 eyes of 28 patients with a median age of 75 years (range, 5–93 years). The clinical setting of endophthalmitis included: cataract surgery (n = 9), corneal ulcer (n = 7), penetrating keratoplasty (n = 5), bleb associated (n = 2), glaucoma drainage implant (n = 2), pars plana vitrectomy (n = 1), iris cyst removal (n = 1), and trauma (n = 1). In acute-onset postoperative cases (n = 10), the median interval between surgery and presentation with endophthalmitis was 4 days (range, 1–26 days). The median duration of symptoms was 1 day, and all patients were treated on the day of diagnosis. Eleven patients (39%) had hand motions or better vision in the infected eye at the time of initial diagnosis. Because of no light perception visual acuity, necrosis of cornea and sclera, and intractable pain, 7 eyes (25%) underwent evisceration or enucleation as initial treatment; of the remaining 21 eyes, intravitreal antibiotics were administered in all cases and intravitreal dexamethasone was administered in 15 cases (71%). Pars plana vitrectomy was performed in 12 patients (43%). The organism was sensitive to the initial antibiotics administered in all but 2 cases. Final visual acuity was 5/200 or better in 2 of 28 eyes (7%). Nineteen patients (68%) had a final visual acuity outcome of no light perception, and no patient achieved a final visual acuity of better than 20/400. Overall, 18 of the 28 eyes (64%) were either eviscerated or enucleated. Conclusions Endophthalmitis caused by P. aeruginosa is associated with poor visual outcomes despite prompt treatment with intravitreal antibiotics to which the organisms were sensitive.
Aesthetic reconstruction of the auricle

Repair of auricular defects can be a challenging endeavor due to a broad variety of clinical presentations and available reconstructive options. Acquired auricular deformities most commonly result from a wide range of traumatic injuries and following Mohs' extirpation of cutaneous malignancies. A choice of repair ultimately depends on patient factors, amount of soft tissue loss, and location of the auricular defect. Meticulous re-establishment of proper physical dimensions, smooth external contour, and complex surface landmarks ensures satisfactory aesthetic outcomes for surgeons and their patients.
Enhancing control of grid distribution in algebraic grid generation

Three techniques are presented to enhance the control of grid-point distribution for a class of algebraic grid generation methods known as the two-, four- and six-boundary methods. First, multidimensional stretching functions are presented, and a technique is devised to construct them based on the desired distribution of grid points along certain boundaries. Second, a normalization procedure is proposed which allows more effective control over orthogonality of grid lines at boundaries and curvature of grid lines near boundaries. And third, interpolating functions based on tension splines are introduced to control curvature of grid lines in the interior of the spatial domain. In addition to these three techniques, consistency conditions are derived which must be satisfied by all user-specified data employed in the grid generation process to control grid-point distribution. The usefulness of the techniques developed in this study was demonstrated by using them in conjunction with the two- and four-boundary methods to generate several grid systems, including a three-dimensional grid system in the coolant passage of a radial turbine blade with serpentine channels and pin fins.
QoS service routing in one-to-one and one-to-many scenarios in next-generation service-oriented networks

The QoS service routing problem has recently emerged as a consequence of the increasingly accepted distributed and composable services model. Different from the conventional QoS data routing, QoS service routing presents additional challenges caused by the service functionality, service dependency, resource requirement heterogeneity, and loop formation issues, that make solutions for QoS data routing inapplicable to QoS service routing. We study this problem both in one-to-one and one-to-many application scenarios, so that despite the fact that the component services are located distributively in multiple hosts, the system can still provide integrated services seamlessly and efficiently.
Improved charge control with adjustable input power factor and optimized switching pattern for a 150 kHz three-phase buck rectifier

The charge control method is a suitable control scheme for achieving high switching frequency for the three-phase buck rectifier. Key improvements are made to the original control scheme allowing for input power factor compensation and the improvement of the input current waveform quality in the presence of an EMI filter. The modified control scheme is demonstrated using a 2 kW SiC JFET-based buck rectifier with 150 kHz switching frequency.
Cytotoxicity and Cell Cycle Specificity of Homoharringtonine

The plant alkaloid, homoharringtonine, isolated from Cephalotaxus harringtonia is cytotoxic to HeLa, KB, and L cells growing in monolayer cell cultures. This effect appears to be cell-cycle specific. In synchronized KB cells, protein synthesis was preferentially inhibited in the G 1 and G 2 phases (70 and 45% inhibition, respectively) as might be expected for a protein-synthesis inhibitor.
Acute Testicular Disorders

1. John M. Gatti, MD* 2. J. Patrick Murphy, MD† 1. *Associate Professor, University of Missouri at Kansas City School of Medicine; Director, Minimally Invasive Urology, Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, Kan 2. †Professor, University of Missouri at Kansas City School of Medicine; Chief, Section of Urology, Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, Kan After completing this article, readers should be able to: 1. Describe the appropriate evaluation and management of the acute scrotum. 2. Discern testicular torsion from other, less urgent conditions that may mimic it. 3. Discuss the importance of prompt diagnosis and treatment of testicular torsion for gonadal salvage. Acute scrotal pain with or without swelling and erythema in the child or adolescent male should be treated as an emergent condition. The differential diagnosis includes: torsion of the spermatic cord, appendix testis or epididymis, epididymitis/orchitis, hernia, hydrocele, trauma, sexual abuse, tumor, idiopathic scrotal edema (dermatitis/insect bite), cellulitis, and vasculitis (Henoch–Schonlein purpura). Most of the conditions are nonemergent, but the prompt diagnosis and treatment of torsion of the spermatic cord is imperative to avoid permanent ischemic damage to the testicle. The most common causes of acute scrotal pain are testicular (spermatic cord) torsion and torsion of the rudimentary vestigial appendages of the testicle or epididymis. The child's age suggests the cause of the acutely painful scrotum because torsion of the appendix testes/epididymis is more common in prepubertal boys and spermatic cord torsion occurs more frequently in adolescents and newborns. Torsion of the testicle results from twisting of the spermatic cord, which compromises testicular blood supply. The number of twists determines the amount of vascular impairment, although generally a 4- to 8-hour window exists before significant ischemic damage occurs that can affect long-term testicular morphology and sperm formation. Testicular torsion is a true surgical emergency. Adolescent males tend to present beyond the “golden” 4- to 8-hour period, but urgent surgical treatment is indicated because viability of the testis is difficult to predict. Two types of testicular torsion may occur. Extravaginal torsion results from twisting of the cord proximal to the tunica vaginalis. This mechanism occurs perinatally during descent of the testicle before the scrotal investment of …
Bone Density-related Predictors of Blood Lead Level among Peri- and Postmenopausal Women in the United States The Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 1988–1994

Because of the long half-life of lead stored in bone (years), skeletal lead stores may be a source of endogenous lead exposure during periods of increased bone demineralization, such as menopause. To test the hypothesis that postmenopausal bone resorption increases blood lead levels, the authors examined cross-sectional associations of bone density-related factors with blood lead levels among women aged 40-59 years from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (1988-1994). Factors related to bone turnover were significant predictors of blood lead level. Bone mineral density was significantly inversely related to blood lead levels in log-linear multivariate models that adjusted for age, race/ethnicity, smoking, education, household income, alcohol use, and residence (urban/rural). With menopausal status added to the model, naturally and surgically menopausal women had adjusted median blood lead levels that were 25% and 30% higher, respectively, than those of premenopausal women (2.0 microg/dl). Current use of hormone replacement therapy was associated with significantly lower adjusted median blood lead levels (1.8 microg/dl) than past use (2.6 microg/dl) and never use (2.2 microg/dl). Lead stored in bone may significantly increase blood lead levels in perimenopausal women because of postmenopausal bone mineral resorption. Attention to factors that prevent bone loss may lessen or prevent this endogenous lead exposure.
Biomechanics of knee ligament healing, repair and reconstruction

Injuries of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and the medial collateral ligament (MCL) are common, accounting for 90% of all knee ligament injuries in young and active individuals. During the last decade, our research center has focused on MCL healing and ACL reconstruction. We have found that the MCL heals without intervention after an isolated injury, and that primary repair offers no apparent advantage. After a combined injury of the ACL and MCL, the ACL requires reconstruction, whereas primary repair again contributes little or nothing toward MCL healing. Midsubstance ACL injuries have limited healing ability. Hence, the treatment of choice for a torn ACL in a young, active patient is generally reconstruction with an autograft or allograft. However, the appropriate replacement graft and reconstruction technique to use are still debated. Current research efforts have been placed on investigating the magnitude and direction of in situ forces in the human ACL. We use a six-component universal force moment sensor combined with a six-degree-of-freedom (DOF) robotic manipulator to learn as well as to reproduce the six-DOF motion of the knee before and after ACL injury. This way, the in situ force in the ACL under an anterior posterior tibial load of 110 N was obtained. This methodology should make it possible to obtain the needed data to aid in better understanding of ACL reconstruction and possible development of improved clinical management.
Formation of a niobium–aluminum heterobimetallic complex via supporting ligand exchange

Abstract Reported herein is the unusual reactivity of (BDI)Nb(N t Bu) 2 (BDI = N,N′-diaryl-β-diketiminate, aryl = 2,6- i Pr 2 -C 6 H 3 ) with AlBr 3 . These investigations led to the synthesis and isolation of heterometallic complex (BDI)Al(μ-N t Bu)(μ-Br)Nb(N t Bu)Br 2 , which was both structurally and spectroscopically characterized.
Alcohol Marketing on Twitter and Instagram: Evidence of Directly Advertising to Youth/Adolescents.

Aims Assess whether alcohol companies restrict youth/adolescent access, interaction, and exposure to their marketing on Twitter and Instagram. Methods Employed five fictitious male and female Twitter ( n = 10) and Instagram ( n = 10) user profiles aged 13, 15, 17, 19 and/or 21. Using cellular smartphones, we determined whether profiles could (a) interact with advertising content—e.g. retweet, view video or picture content, comment, share URL; and/or (b) follow and directly receive advertising material updates from the official Instagram and Twitter pages of 22 alcohol brands for 30 days. Results All user profiles could fully access, view, and interact with alcohol industry content posted on Instagram and Twitter. Twitter's age-gate, which restricts access for those under 21, successfully prevented underage profiles from following and subsequently receiving promotional material/updates. The two 21+ profiles collectively received 1836 alcohol-related tweets within 30 days. All Instagram profiles, however, were able to follow all alcohol brand pages and received an average of 362 advertisements within 30 days. The quantity of promotional updates increased throughout the week, reaching their peak on Thursday and Friday. Representatives/controllers of alcohol brand Instagram pages would respond directly to our underage user's comments. Conclusion The alcohol industry is in violation of their proposed self-regulation guidelines for digital marketing communications on Instagram. While Twitter's age-gate effectively blocked direct to phone updates, unhindered access to post was possible. Everyday our fictitious profiles, even those as young as 13, were bombarded with alcohol industry messages and promotional material directly to their smartphones.
Enumeration of Salmonellae by Most-Probable-Number Using the Salmonella 1-2 Test

A rapid Salmonella identification test was substituted for the selective plating and identification steps in the standard cultural most-probable-number procedure. The modified procedure was evaluated using a mixed culture of four salmonellae species inoculated into ground beef. The rapid test kit was inoculated from both the pre-enrichment and selective enrichment steps in the standard procedure. There were fewer false negatives when the test kits were inoculated from selective vs. non-selective broths. However, there were no false negatives when the kit was inoculated from Rappaport-Vassiliadis' broth, after pre-enrichment in lactose broth. Use of the test kit in the MPN procedure produced acceptable results in 48 to 72 h, compared with 96 to 120 h for the standard procedure.
A Comparative Examination of Pre-Service Teacher Self-Efficacy Related to Literacy Instruction

This study investigated differences in self-efficacy to teach literacy between two groups of pre-service teachers. The authors hypothesized that pre-service teachers enrolled in one program focusing on fewer grade levels (K–3) and requiring more literacy-focused courses would have higher self-efficacy than pre-service teachers enrolled in another program focusing on more grade levels (K–6) and requiring fewer literacy-focused courses. However, the opposite findings were realized. Moreover, results demonstrated that regardless of program, pre-service teachers felt less efficacious about teaching writing when compared to teaching reading. Implications for teacher educators and recommendations for literacy instruction are discussed.
Atomic Layer Deposition of Aluminum Oxide in Mesoporous Silica Gel

Silica gel is a mesoporous, granular material with a high specific surface area that is widely used as a support for heterogeneous catalysts. This study explores the atomic layer deposition (ALD) of aluminum oxide (Al2O3) in silica gel. The coated materials were analyzed using weight-gain measurements, nitrogen adsorption surface-area analysis, energy dispersive X-ray analysis, and scanning electron microscopy. In addition, the individual ALD surface reactions on the silica gel powder were monitored in situ using quadrupole mass spectrometry. This study confirmed that the silica gel could be conformally coated using reactant exposure times of ∼90 s, and the surface area remained relatively unchanged even after 20 Al2O3 ALD cycles. EDAX measurements performed on silica gel specimens prepared using subsaturating trimethyl aluminum (TMA) exposures demonstrated that the spherical particles become infiltrated with the Al2O3 ALD progressively from the outside of the particles to the core, and the kinetics of th...
Hereditary Glucosephosphate Isomerase Deficiency: A Review

The clinical, hematologic and biochemical characteristics of the known cases of glucosephosphate deficiency are reviewed. This hereditary disorder of erythrocyte metabolism is the third most common enzyme defect resulting in congenital nonspherocytic hemolytic anemia. Its unique features relative to other erythroenzymopathies are emphasized.
Efficacy of low-stress herding and low-moisture block to target cattle grazing locations on New Mexico rangelands

Abstract Efficacy of low-stress herding (LSH) and strategic placement of low-moisture block (LMB) protein supplement was evaluated to target cattle grazing on underutilized areas of extensive and rugged rangelands in south central New Mexico. Global positioning system-tracked cattle spent more time (P
University of Wisconsin solution provides superior myocardial preservation compared with Stanford cardioplegic solution

The efficacy of the University of Wisconsin solution to safely prolong preservation times for kidney, pancreas, and liver transplantation is established, but its efficacy in enhancing myocardial preservation is not yet clear. We studied the effects of Stanford cardioplegic solution and the University of Wisconsin solution both in preserving the myocardium and in protecting it from the effects of reperfusion injury after 6 hours of preservation. In 28 rat hearts we measured changes in high-energy phosphate content (with magnetic resonance spectroscopy) and histologic changes (edema, endothelial changes, myocyte architecture) during preservation and changes in high-energy phosphate content, histologic status, and performance (aortic systolic and diastolic pressure, heart rate, rhythm) in Langendorff and working hearts during reperfusion. No significant differences in the kinetics of high-energy phosphate changes were noted between the two cardioplegic solutions during preservation. However, at the end of 6 hours of preservation, hearts in the Stanford cardioplegic solution group were more edematous (p < 0.01) than those in the University of Wisconsin group. During reperfusion, no significant differences in the kinetics of high-energy phosphates were noted between the two cardioplegic solutions. None of the hearts in the University of Wisconsin solution group developed ventricular fibrillation at the start of reperfusion, but all hearts in the Stanford group did so. Once sinus rhythm was established no significant differences in developed pressure or heart rate were found between the two solutions. After 2.5 hours of reperfusion, hearts in the Stanford group were more edematous (p < 0.002) and had a greater disruption of myocyte architecture (p < 0.002) and greater arteriolar endothelial injury (p < 0.004). In conclusion, the University of Wisconsin solution better protects the myocardium in this rat model than does Stanford solution. The mechanism for this beneficial effect of the University of Wisconsin solution appears to be due to its better preservation of the microvasculature rather than differences in preservation of high-energy phosphates.
Astrocyte signaling and synaptic homeostasis: I: Membrane channels, transporters, and receptors in astrocytes.

Astrocytes are among the most numerous cells in the CNS and are crucial for development, homeostasis, synaptic and network function, and response to injury and repair. They consist of different functional compartments, including perisynaptic processes and endfeet, and are interconnected via gap junctions that provide for the formation of syncytia composed of hundreds of astrocytes. The perisynaptic processes participate in reciprocal interactions with presynaptic and postsynaptic terminals, creating a tripartite synapse. Astrocytes thereby regulate activity of individual synapses and coordinate neuronal network activity via signal propagation both within the astrocyte and throughout the astrocytic network. The endfeet of the astrocytes cover the surface of cerebral blood vessels; they contribute to the formation of the blood–brain barrier and have a major role in neurovascular coupling regulating local blood flow. Astrocytes also provide metabolic support to active neurons, that is, neurometabolic coupling.
Reflectometry–Ellipsometry Reveals Thickness, Growth Rate, and Phase Composition in Oxidation of Copper

The oxidation of copper is a complicated process. Copper oxide develops two stable phases at room temperature and standard pressure (RTSP): cuprous oxide (Cu2O) and cupric oxide (CuO). Both phases have different optical and electrical characteristics that make them interesting for applications such as solar cells or resistive switching devices. For a given application, it is necessary to selectively control oxide thickness and cupric/cuprous oxide phase volume fraction. The thickness and composition of a copper oxide film growing on the surface of copper widely depend on the characteristics of as-deposited copper. In this Research Article, two samples, copper films prepared by two different deposition techniques, electron-beam evaporation and sputtering, were studied. As the core part of the study, the formation of the oxidized copper was analyzed routinely over a period of 253 days using spectroscopic polarized reflectometry-spectroscopic ellipsometry (RE). An effective medium approximation (EMA) model w...
A “Train-Track” Technique in Anatomic Reconstruction of SVC Bifurcation Complicated by Cardiac Tamponade: An Introspection

This report describes a stenting technique used to anatomically reconstruct superior vena cava (SVC) bifurcation in a patient with benign SVC syndrome. After recanalizing the SVC bifurcation, we exchanged two 0.035-in. wires for two 0.018-in. wires, deployed the SVC stent over these two wires (“train-track” technique), and stented each innominate vein over one wire. However, our decisions to recanalize both innominate veins, use the “buddy-wire” technique for SVC dilation, and dilate the SVC to 16 mm before stent deployment likely contributed to SVC tear, which was managed by resuscitation, SVC stent placement, and pericardial drainage. Here, we describe the steps of the train-track technique, which can be adopted to reconstruct other bifurcations; we also discuss the controversial aspects of this case.
AMERICAS, CENTRAL | Lower Central America

This article summarizes the early prehistory of the region between the Isthmus of Tehuantepec in southern Mexico to the Panama–Colombia border. After 3000 BC, the focus shifts to the area south of the Mesoamerica know as Lower Central America (Panama, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and northeastern Honduras). The earliest evidence of human occupation in Central America yet recovered are those of the Paleoindian Clovis populations who entered the region around 11 000 BC when the climate was significantly cooler (by 5–7 °C) and drier (by 30–40%) than at present. The Archaic (c. 10 000–6000 BC) hunter-gatherers were more numerous than their predecessors and, over time, incorporated increasing amounts of plant foods in their diet. Microfossil remains (pollen, phytoliths, and starch grains) of several domesticates including maize, squash, manioc, and arrowroot have been recovered from localities in Panama dating between 8000 and 6000 BC. Large scale forest clearing for swidden agriculture was widespread throughout CA by 2000 BC and as early as 6000 BC in central Panama. The establishment of permanent settlements by 2000 BC in parts of CA quickly led to the development of chiefdoms and ancient states in northern CA. In southern CA, the widespread appearance of permanent agricultural villages in the 1st millennium BC was accompanied by craft specialization, well-made ceramics, luxury goods of shell and semi-precious stone, differential treatment of the dead and regular intra- and inter-regional exchange. Full-blown chiefdoms first appeared in the 1st millennium AD in many different areas within Lower CA. Chiefly centers were variously marked by specialized residences for chiefs and other elites often built on raised platforms, monumental stone statuary, paved plazas and causeways, and luxury items of gold, semi-precious stone, ivory and bone, among other materials. Many of these luxury items found their way into elite tombs found in special cemeteries. At contact, Lower CA contained several culturally distinct subregions, each populated by autonomous chiefdoms and tribes oftentimes speaking mutually unintelligible languages.
Recent Discoveries in the Classic Maya Palace Complex of Nim li Punit, Belize

ABSTRACTNim li Punit is a small Classic Maya (ca. a.d. 150–830) center of Toledo District, Belize. Here I describe excavations of two buildings within the royal palace group: Structures 7 and 8. Structure 8 was built in four stages all dating to the Early to Late/Terminal Classic period. It probably served as a council house. Structure 7 was the residential palace and was built in two stages. An Early Classic burial demonstrates indirect interaction with Teotihuacan. During the Terminal Classic period, the shape of Structure 7 was altered, numerous caches were placed there, and Tomb 5 was dedicated. It contained many important artifacts including a modeled effigy vase displaying the wind god, a chert eccentric, and the second largest piece of carved jade excavated legally in Belize. This, the Nim li Punit “wind jewel,” contains a long historical text and was worn by Late Classic kings. I argue that the pectoral tied Maya kings through ritual performance to breath, winds, rain, agriculture, and life.
New Developments in Survey Data Collection

This review focuses on recent methodological and technological developments in survey data collection. Surveys are facing unprecedented challenges from both societal and technological changes. Against this backdrop, I review the survey profession's response to these challenges and developments to enhance and extend the survey tool. I discuss the decline in random digit dialing and the rise of address-based sampling, along with the corresponding shift from telephone surveys to self-administered (mail and/or Web) modes. I discuss the rise in nonprobability sampling approaches, especially those associated with online data collection. I also review so-called big data alternatives to surveys. Finally, I discuss a number of recent methodological and technological trends designed to modernize the survey method. I conclude that although they face a number of major challenges, surveys remain a robust and flexible method for collecting data on, and making inference to, populations.
Non-Zero-Sum Games

In studying games which are not zero-sum, the distinction between cooperative and noncooperative games is crucial. There are two types of cooperation among players. The first is the making of binding agreements before play starts about how they will play (that is, coordination of strategies); the second is the making of agreements about sharing payoffs (or about “side payments” from one player to another). The aim of the first type is to increase the payoffs to the cooperating players; the aim of the second is for one player (or group of players) to induce another player to coordinate strategies.
Sgx Bids for Asx

In October 2010, the recently appointed CEO of the Singapore Exchange (SGX) wanted the SGX to grow faster than organic growth alone would allow. The most logical acquisition target was the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX). Executives from the SGX and the ASX announced an agreement to merge. The two exchanges would remain separate legal entities for regulatory purposes but both would be owned by ASX‐SGX Limited, a new holding company that the deal would establish. But why did the merger fail? This left executives at the SGX and other foreign securities exchanges pondering whether the conditions the Australian Treasurer specified for a merger could ever be met and, if so, would a foreign securities exchange really be allowed to acquire the ASX? Excerpt UVA-F-1756 Rev. Jul. 21, 2016 SGX Bids for ASX It was October 2010, and the recently appointed CEO of the Singapore Exchange (SGX) wanted the SGX to grow faster than organic growth alone would allow. Although Singapore was an important world financial capital and a very prosperous city‐state, its small population of 5 million limited potential growth from the domestic economy alone. At the same time, changes in the ownership structure of exchanges, coupled with a shift to electronic trading and increased competition from new trading venues, had sparked a wave of exchange mergers and attempted mergers around the world since the turn of the century. Acquiring another exchange could achieve the SGX's desired growth and realize significant cost and revenue synergies while increasing the SGX's relative importance in a consolidating industry. The problem that the SGX faced was that there were only a few potential acquisition targets in the Asia‐Pacific region, as most countries in the region would not allow a domestic securities exchange to be acquired by a foreign one in a cross‐border merger. . . .
Water-assisted flash sintering: Flashing ZnO at room temperature to achieve ~ 98% density in seconds

Abstract Water can trigger flash sintering of ZnO powder pellets at room temperature to achieve ~ 98% of the theoretical density in 30 s without any external furnace heating. The specimen conductivity can be increased by > 10,000 times via absorbing water vapor to enable the room-temperature flash. The initial electric field must be higher than a critical threshold to lead to densification, suggesting bifurcation in kinetic pathways. This new cost and energy saving water-assisted flash sintering (WAFS) technology can potentially be applied to consolidate other ceramic materials.
Synchronous Sequential Logic

This chapter covers basic components of synchronous sequential logic, D flip-flop, T flip-flop, J-K flip-flop, register, analysis of sequential logic, state diagram, flip-flop excitation table, and how to design a counter.
Measuring the Determinants of Bus Dwell Time: New Insights and Potential Biases:

Dwell time is a major component of bus travel time and travel time variability. In turn, the distribution of bus travel times affects transit operators’ costs and customer satisfaction. Previous research used dwell time from bus stop–level data to understand the key factors that contribute to dwell time duration. However, bus stop–level data have significant shortcomings when bus stops are located near intersections or at time points. Regression results show that the use of only stop-level data can significantly bias estimation of boarding and alighting coefficients. This research complements bus stop data with bus GPS trajectory data around bus stops to prevent estimation bias and to measure better the key factors that determine dwell time. Regression results from individual and pooled bus stop models are compared to provide new insights into the impacts of traffic conditions, signalized intersections, bus bays, and time points on dwell times. The impacts of nearside, midblock, and farside bus stops are ...
On Babinet's principle and diffraction associated with an arbitrary particle.

Babinet’s principle is widely used to compute the diffraction by a particle. However, the diffraction by a 3-D object is not totally the same as that simulated with Babinet’s principle. This Letter uses a surface integral equation to exactly formulate the diffraction by an arbitrary particle and illustrate the condition for the applicability of Babinet’s principle. The present results may serve to close the debate on the diffraction formalism.
Sensitivity of proposed search for axion-induced magnetic field using optically pumped magnetometers

We investigate the sensitivity of a search for the oscillating current induced by axion dark matter in an external magnetic field using optically pumped magnetometers. This experiment is based upon the LC circuit (circuit with inductor and capacitor) axion detection concept of Sikivie et al. [Phys. Rev. Lett. 112, 131301 (2014)]. The modification of Maxwell's equations caused by the axion-photon coupling results in a minute magnetic field oscillating at a frequency equal to the axion mass, in the presence of an external magnetic field. The axion-induced magnetic field could be searched for using a LC circuit amplifier with an optically pumped magnetometer, the most sensitive cryogen-free magnetic-field sensor, in a room-temperature experiment, avoiding the need for a complicated and expensive cryogenic system. We discuss how an existing magnetic resonance imaging experiment can be modified to search for axions in a previously unexplored part of the parameter space. Our existing detection setup, optimized for magnetic resonance imagining, is already sensitive to an axion-photon coupling of ${10}^{\ensuremath{-}7}\text{ }\text{ }{\mathrm{GeV}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$ for an axion mass near $3\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}10}\text{ }\text{ }\mathrm{eV}$, which is already limited by astrophysical processes and solar axion searches. We show that realistic modifications, and optimization of the experiment for axion detection, can probe the axion-photon coupling up to 4 orders of magnitude beyond the current best limit, for axion masses between ${10}^{\ensuremath{-}11}$ and ${10}^{\ensuremath{-}7}\text{ }\text{ }\mathrm{eV}$.
Near-instant link failure recovery in 5G wireless fog-based-fronthaul networks

Rapid recovery from link failures was previously demonstrated via the synergistic combination of Diversity and Network Coding (DC-NC) for a wide variety of network architectures. In this paper, the DC-NC methodology is further enhanced to achieve near-instant recovery from multiple, simultaneous wireless link failures by modifying Triangular Network Coding (TNC) to create enhanced DC-NC (eDC-NC) that is applied to 5G wireless Fog computing based Radio Access Networks (F-RANs). In addition, an explicit algorithm for the eDC-NC decoding process is provided. Our results demonstrate that applying eDC-NC coding to a F-RAN fronthaul network will provide ultra-reliability, enable near-instantaneous fault recovery, and enhance the throughput by at least 20% (for three broadcasted data streams).
A DECOMPOSITION OF S3 WITH A NULL SEQUENCE OF CELLULAR ARCS

Publisher Summary This chapter presents the decomposition of S 3 with a null sequence of cellular arcs. It presents a theorem that states that there exists a null sequence of disjoint cellular arcs { A i } in S 3 such that the decomposition spaces S 3 /{ A i } is topologically different from S 3 . To show that a cellular upper semi-continuous decomposition G of S 3 is not shrinkable, it is frequently convenient to construct a defining sequence for G each stage of which is a collection with the two disk property that is defined as: a finite collection of M of disjoint closed subsets in the interior of a solid torus T has the two disk property if and only if for every pair of disjoint meridonial disks D 0 , D 1 of T , there is an element of M which intersects both D 0 and D 1 . A disk D in T is meridonial if DBd T=Bd D and Bd D does not bound a disk in Bd T .
Building a Distribution System in Eastern Europe

In an environment of changing customer expectations and evolving distribution infrastructure, firms can develop new business models that generate rapid growth. In this article, we examine the organic growth of a Czech office supply firm, Papirius. By introducing express delivery with service guarantees, Papirius was able to quickly grow and solidify its based. However, to defend its market against expanding multinationals, firms like Papiris must exploit their unique customer knowledge while driving efficiencies to world-class levels.
Predicting need for surgical drainage of pericardial effusion in patients with end-stage renal disease

The best approach to treatment of pericarditis accompanied by substantial pericardial effusion in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients is unknown. In a review of our experience, we found that ESRD patients with moderate-to-large or large (circa 250 mL or larger) pericardial effusions usually failed to improve with intensive dialysis and ultimately required surgical drainage of the effusion. Multivariate analysis revealed that effusion size was by far the most important factor predicting need for surgery. Since early pericardial drainage obviates the risk of sudden tamponade, we recommend that surgery without prior intensive dialysis therapy be considered in such patients.
Integrated observer and sensor placement design of parabolic PDEs using modified Centroidal Voronoi Tessellations

This paper addresses the integrated design of observer kernels and sensor placement for a class of parabolic partial differential equations. A special class of filters is the one employing colocated filter kernels whereby the filter operator is taken to be the adjoint of the output operator weighted by scalar gains. Employing optimization criteria, the optimal spatial distribution of an idealized sensor is first found and subsequently an ideal Kalman-based filter is established using the optimal spatial distribution of the idealized sensor. This idealized filter is subsequently used to simultaneously solve the optimal sensor placement problem and the associated filter gain problem. Using a modification of the centroidal Voronoi tessellation (CVT), the idealized spatial distribution of the optimal sensor operator is decomposed into components having equal areas under the sensor kernel. This enables the placement of sensors with respect to computational optimality. Once the sensor locations are found, then a least squares method is employed to minimize the error between the idealized filter and the approximated filter and to provide the weights of the approximated filter kernels. Simulation studies on a diffusion partial differential equation are included to provide a comparison between the idealised filter and the computationally efficient filter-plus-sensor-placement scheme.
The Allosteric Site on SHP2’s Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase Domain is Targetable with Druglike Small Molecules

Difficulties in developing active-site-directed protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTP) inhibitors have led to the perception that PTPs are "undruggable", highlighting the need for new means to target pharmaceutically important PTPs allosterically. Recently, we characterized an allosteric-inhibition site on the PTP domain of Src-homology-2-domain-containing PTP 2 (SHP2), a key anticancer drug target. The central feature of SHP2's allosteric site is a nonconserved cysteine residue (C333) that can potentially be labeled with electrophilic compounds for selective SHP2 inhibition. Here, we describe the first directed discovery effort for C333-targeted allosteric SHP2 inhibitors. By screening a previously reported library of reversible, covalent inhibitors, we identified a lead compound, which was modified to yield an irreversible inhibitor (12), that inhibits SHP2 allosterically and selectively through interaction with C333. These findings provide a novel paradigm for allosteric-inhibitor discovery on SHP2, one that may help to circumvent the challenges inherent in targeting SHP2's active site.
Incidence of dementia after age 90 in a multiracial cohort

Abstract Introduction Little is known about dementia incidence in diverse populations of oldest-old, the age group with highest dementia incidence. Methods Incident dementia diagnoses from 1/1/2010 to 9/30/2015 were abstracted from medical records for 2350 members of an integrated health care system in California (n = 1702 whites, n = 375 blacks, n = 105 Latinos, n = 168 Asians) aged ≥90 in 2010. We estimated race/ethnicity-specific age-adjusted dementia incidence rates and implemented Cox proportional hazards models and Fine and Gray competing risk of death models adjusted for demographics and comorbidities in midlife and late-life. Results Dementia incidence rates (n = 771 cases) were lowest among Asians (89.9/1000 person-years), followed by whites (96.9/1000 person-years), Latinos (105.8/1000 person-years), and blacks (121.5/1000 person-years). Cox regression and competing risk models estimated 28% and 36% higher dementia risk for blacks versus whites adjusting for demographics and comorbidities. Discussion Patterns of racial/ethnic disparities in dementia seen in younger older adults continue after the age of 90 years, though smaller in magnitude.
Reduced environmental stimuli is associated with improved insulin‑like growth factor‑1 levels and physical growth in very low birth weight premature infants

Standard environmental features of the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) may be stressful and not optimal for the maturation of very low birth weight premature infants (VLBWPIs). The present study investigated whether structured no-touch periods and reducing periods of light and sound stimulation may influence the developmental indices of VLBWPIs. Between June 2012 and June 2013, 60 consecutive VLBWPIs were equally apportioned to either an experimental or control group. The groups were statistically comparable with regard to sex ratio, gestational age and birth weight. Each group received routine nursing care, but infants in the experimental group were additionally cared for in a separate room with 3 h of rest every 8 h, and reduced light and sound from staff and instruments. At 7 and 14 days following birth, plasma insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels of the experimental group were significantly higher than that of the control group. Furthermore, at day 7 and 14, the body weight and crown-to-heel lengths were significantly increased in the experimental group compared with the control group. In summary, during the first 2 weeks following birth, the reduction of touch, sound and light stimulation in the NICU were associated with higher plasma IGF-1 levels and physical growth of VLBWPIs. These results may have implications for the better management of VLBWPIs in the NICU.
Clipping-Enhanced Optical OFDM for Visible Light Communication Systems

Visible light communications (VLC), a new optical wireless communication technology that uses illumination light-emitting diodes as transmitters, requires a modulation scheme that is well suited to these devices’ nonlinear response. Optical orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) is a promising technique to provide high-speed data transmission for VLC. However, the peak transmitted power limitation and nonnegative transmitted signal constraint of the lighting sources can result in nonlinear signal distortion from clipping. In this paper, we propose a novel optical OFDM scheme for VLC systems called clipping-enhanced optical OFDM (CEO-OFDM) that transmits via extra time slots the information clipped by the peak power constraint. CEO-OFDM sacrifices bandwidth to allow a higher modulation index to improve the signal to noise ratio and reduce the clipping distortion caused by the peak power limitation. From analytical and numerical results, the proposed CEO-OFDM provides better bit error rate performance and higher data rate than DC-biased optical OFDM, unipolar OFDM, and asymmetrically clipped optical OFDM. Furthermore, CEO-OFDM can provide a better illumination performance that supports light dimming.
Changes in Patient Activation in a Self-Management Intervention:

The purpose of this study was to compare results using individual change in level of patient activation measure (PAM) scores, individual point change scores, and group means in an outcome analysis. We evaluated changes in PAM scores (increase in level or increase of ≥5 points) to mean group PAM scores on patients who completed a self-management intervention compared with usual care on health care utilization and health-related quality of life. The sample was a subset of 91 multimorbid patients with complete data at completion of a self-management intervention. Results indicated that using a change in points allowed for more refined analysis of change compared with level changes; however, both individual measures were more reflective of actual change than group means. When tailoring interventions, we should consider using individual change scores. Further research is needed to evaluate how best to use PAM scores to measure the impact on clinical and health care outcomes.
Sex-Based Differences in Left Ventricular Assist Device Utilization: Insights From the Nationwide Inpatient Sample 2004 to 2016.

Background: Women comprise approximately one-third of the advanced heart failure population but may receive fewer advanced heart failure therapies including left ventricular assist devices (LVADs)....
Birkhoff Averages and Rotational Invariant Circles for Area-Preserving Maps

Abstract Rotational invariant circles of area-preserving maps are an important and well-studied example of KAM tori. John Greene conjectured that the locally most robust rotational circles have rotation numbers that are noble, i.e., have continued fractions with a tail of ones, and that, of these circles, the most robust has golden mean rotation number. The accurate numerical confirmation of these conjectures relies on the map having a time-reversal symmetry, and such high accuracy has not been obtained in more general maps. In this paper, we develop a method based on a weighted Birkhoff average for identifying chaotic orbits, island chains, and rotational invariant circles that does not rely on these symmetries. We use Chirikov’s standard map as our test case, and also demonstrate that our methods apply to three other, well-studied cases.
Food intake regulation: Relevance to bariatric and metabolic endoscopic therapies

Abstract In this review, we aim to cover the key aspects of food intake regulation in health and obesity as well as the presumed mechanisms of action of bariatric endoscopic procedures for weight loss. Food intake regulation is a tightly controlled homeostatic process. The key stages of food intake regulation are hunger, satiation, and satiety. These different stages are regulated by the brain-gut-liver-fat axis. Disruption in this homeostatic process results in increased food intake and further weight gain and obesity. Bariatric endoscopy is an innovative and evolving field in the treatment of obesity. While its effectiveness is becoming rapidly accepted, the mechanisms of action are many times not well recognized. Bariatric endoscopy targets different stages and organs that control food intake. Understanding the mechanisms of action of each endoscopic bariatric therapy will facilitate the future improvement of each device, as well as the patient selection to maximize outcomes and minimize potential side effects.
Overcoming Affective Nihilism

In this chapter, I investigate potential Nietzschean strategies for overcoming affective nihilism. First, I present strategies for overcoming affective nihilism that focus on jump-starting the agency of the affective nihilist. These first two strategies include (1) “living experimentally” by placing oneself in a variety of potentially stimulating climates and contexts and (2) undertaking practices of self-knowledge, especially the formation and reflection upon a personal narrative. Both of these strategies employ the production of affect to potentially stimulate one’s drives and energize one’s will. Additionally, both strategies afford the affective nihilist opportunities to unify their will behind a strengthened, commanding drive, as new values or goals are identified. After reviewing these strategies, I close the chapter by outlining a third strategy: self-genealogy. This strategy has the potential not only to help overcome affective nihilism, but to help the individual who has overcome affective nihilism avoid lapsing back into this condition.