cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Hybrid Hierarchical Motion Planning

In this paper, the problem of motion planning of an autonomous agent in an uncertain environment is solved in a hierarchical fashion. At the higher level of the hierarchy, the state-space of the agent is reduced to a set of “landmarks” through the use of suitably defined control policies at the lower level, called “options”, which results in a semi-Markov Decision problem (SMDP). Existing algorithms for path planning such as PRMs/ RRTs are utlized as the lower level options. Two model-based approaches (based on the model of the uncertain map): one based on simulations and the other based on heuristics, are proposed to estimate the parameters of the higher level planner, i.e., the SMDP. The methodology is applied to an unmanned ground vehicle, with non-trivial dynamics, navigating a cluttered and uncertain urban environment.
Validation of Improvement of Basic Competency in Arthroscopic Knot Tying Using a Bench Top Simulator in Orthopaedic Residency Education

Purpose To validate basic competency in arthroscopic knot tying using a unique simulator device to compare the level of training needed for learning and tying the arthroscopic knot by evaluating the tensile properties of the arthroscopic knots. Methods Three groups of surgeons of various experience levels (postgraduate year [PGY] 1, PGY 3, and experienced surgeons) tied 2 different arthroscopic knots (Tennessee Slider, considered easier, and Weston, considered more difficult) over a 10-week period. Each group went through 3 separate stages of knot tying: stage 1, tying 8 knots without cannula or knot pusher; stage 2, tying 12 knots with knot pusher; and stage 3, tying 20 knots with knot pusher through a cannula that simulates knot tying during surgery. A single load-to-failure test was performed and ultimate clinical failure loads were recorded. Time needed to tie each knot was also recorded. Results At stages 1 and 2, the PGY 1 group had a significantly weak knot tensile strength (Tennessee Slider stage 1: 60 v 129 N, P = .001; Tennessee Slider stage 2: 69 v 132 N, P = .0029; Weston stage 1: 73 v 184 N, P = .0000; Weston stage 2: 125 v 173 N, P = .0045) and were slower (Weston: 56 v 30 seconds, P = .0010) than the experienced surgeon group for both knots. At stage 3, only the initial 2 weeks of Tennessee Slider showed a significant difference between groups 1 and 3 (week 6: 87 v 118 N, P = .0492; week 7: 89 v 126, P = .01485). Even though the Tennessee Slider knot is one of the easier arthroscopic knots to learn to tie, the results showed a slow trend of improvement in this knot-tying skill for group 1 after each stage. Conclusions The data validated an important learning effect in all trainees in arthroscopic knot tying over a 10-week period and showed that inexperienced trainees will be able to improve their knot-tying skill with training in 3 stages with a simulator environment. Clinical Relevance The findings of this study indicated the importance of hands-on experience in performing arthroscopic knot tying, as determined by both knot performance and ultimate suture loop strength. In addition, each orthopaedic resident learned and developed his or her arthroscopic knot-tying skills and provided a foundation for his or her future practice in orthopaedic medicine.
Examining the July Effect: A National Survey of Academic Leaders in Medicine

Abstract Background Whether the "July Effect" affects perspectives or has prompted changes in US Internal Medicine residency programs is unknown. Methods We designed a survey-based study to assess views and efforts aimed at preventing harm in July. A convenience sampling strategy (email listserv and direct messages to program leaders via the Electronic Residency Application Service) was used to disseminate the survey. Results The response rate was 16% (65/418 programs); however, a total of 262 respondents from all 50 states where residency programs are located were included. Most respondents (n = 201; 77%) indicated that errors occur more frequently in July compared with other months. The most common identified errors included incorrect or delayed orders (n = 183, 70% and n = 167, 64%, respectively), errors in discharge medications (n = 144, 55%), and inadequate information exchange at handoffs (n = 143, 55%). Limited trainee experience (n = 208, 79%), lack of understanding hospital workflow, and difficulty using electronic medical record systems (n = 194; 74% and n = 188; 72%, respectively) were reported as the most common factors contributing to these errors. Programs reported instituting several efforts to prevent harm in July: for interns, additional electronic medical record training (n = 178; 68%) and education on handoffs and discharge processes (n = 176; 67% and n = 108; 41%, respectively) were introduced. Similarly, for senior residents, teaching sessions on how to lead a team (n = 158; 60%) and preferential placement of certain residents on harder rotations (n = 103; 39%) were also reported. Most respondents (n = 140; 53%) also solicited specific "July attendings" using a volunteer system or highest teaching ratings. Conclusion Residency programs in Internal Medicine appear to have instituted various changes to mitigate harm in July. Further evaluation to understand the impact of these interventions on trainee education and patient safety is necessary.
The concepts of “philosophy” and “rhetoric” in Plato’s Republic

ABSTRACTReviewing a recent debate between Professors Michael Warren Tumolo and John Peterman on the relationship between philosophy and rhetoric in Plato’s work, I identify and address certain logical errors in the authors’ articles regarding definitions of concepts. By subsequently returning to Plato’s text, I recover the working definitions of the concepts that are discussed and I show how to capture the distinction between philosophy and rhetoric in a way that fits the conclusions Plato himself reaches. In contrast, deconstructive renderings of Plato’s views like the ones practiced in the reviewed articles risk either losing the distinction between rhetoric and philosophy altogether or forcing a distinction that is not Plato’s.
[49-year-old woman after kyphoplasty].

Die 49-jahrige aktuell asymptomatische Patientin mit Mammakarzinom und multiplen Metastasen in der Hals-, Brust- und Lendenwirbelsaule wurde mittels Kyphoplastie behandelt. Das postoperativ routinemasig durchgefuhrte Rontgen des Thorax in 2 Ebenen ergab einen auffalligen Befund (Abb. 1) .
Emplaced social vulnerability to technological disasters: Southeast Louisiana and the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill

We examine the relationship between emplaced social vulnerability and impacts on mental health following the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Through joint analysis of data from Community Oil Spill Survey and US Census Bureau products, a place-based index of social vulnerability is developed to examine how emplaced characteristics engender unique susceptibility to the disaster, with specific attention on the influence of natural resource employment and community sentiment. Results show negative mental health impacts to be more pronounced at baseline compared to later time points and that shifts in negative mental health were not uniform for localities with divergent levels of social vulnerability, where places identified with high levels of social vulnerability the effectiveness of attributes associated with resilience were muted, while the effect of vulnerability attributes was amplified. These findings contribute to the understanding of vulnerability as a multidimensional concept shaped by the social attributes that characterize people and places.
Target valuation complexity and takeover premiums

Firm- and deal-specific characteristics that complicate estimation of target value simultaneously increase the level and variance of takeover premiums. Specifically, the mean premium is higher and the precision of the premium as a signal is lower (i.e., the error variance higher) when targets belong to the tech industry, when target stock returns are more volatile, when the bidders are larger, and when the cost of deal advising is higher. We also find that deal characteristics that we believe reduce target valuation complexity (transactions involving private bidders or LBOs) result in a lower mean premium and dispersion of premiums. Conversely, deal characteristics that we believe increase target valuation complexity (such as tender offers and deals that take a long time to complete) result in a higher mean premium and higher dispersion of premiums. Overall, characteristics that complicate the valuation of targets feed back into the level of the premium through potential pricing errors and inflate the dispersion of premiums.
MO-B-BRB-04: 3D Dosimetry in End-To-End Dosimetry QA

Full three-dimensional (3D) dosimetry using volumetric chemical dosimeters probed by 3D imaging systems has long been a promising technique for the radiation therapy clinic, since it provides a unique methodology for dose measurements in the volume irradiated using complex conformal delivery techniques such as IMRT and VMAT. To date true 3D dosimetry is still not widely practiced in the community; it has been confined to centres of specialized expertise especially for quality assurance or commissioning roles where other dosimetry techniques are difficult to implement. The potential for improved clinical applicability has been advanced considerably in the last decade by the development of improved 3D dosimeters (e.g., radiochromic plastics, radiochromic gel dosimeters and normoxic polymer gel systems) and by improved readout protocols using optical computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. In this session, established users of some current 3D chemical dosimeters will briefly review the current status of 3D dosimetry, describe several dosimeters and their appropriate imaging for dose readout, present workflow procedures required for good dosimetry, and analyze some limitations for applications in select settings. We will review the application of 3D dosimetry to various clinical situations describing how 3D approaches can complement other dose delivery validation approaches already available in the clinic. The applications presented will be selected to inform attendees of the unique features provided by full 3D techniques. Learning Objectives: 1.L. John Schreiner: Background and Motivation i.Understand recent developments enabling clinically practical 3D dosimetry, ii.Appreciate 3D dosimetry workflow and dosimetry procedures, and iii.Observe select examples from the clinic. 2.Sofie Ceberg: Application to dynamic radiotherapy i.Observe full dosimetry under dynamic radiotherapy during respiratory motion, and ii.Understand how the measurement of high resolution dose data in an irradiated volume can help understand interplay effects during TomoTherapy or VMAT. 3.Titania Juang: Special techniques in the clinic and research i.Understand the potential for 3D dosimetry in validating dose accumulation in deformable systems, and ii.Observe the benefits of high resolution measurements for precision therapy in SRS and in MicroSBRT for small animal irradiators 4.Geoffrey S. Ibbott: 3D Dosimetry in end-to-end dosimetry QA i.Understand the potential for 3D dosimetry for end-to-end radiation therapy process validation in the in-house and external credentialing setting. Canadian Institutes of Health Research; L. Schreiner, Modus QA, London, ON, Canada; T. Juang, NIH R01CA100835
Biology of Gap Junctions

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses biology of gap junctions. Gap junction can be defined as a structure serving as an electrical synapse in excitable tissues and as permeable cell-to-cell ion channels in inexcitable cells. The chapter discusses several concepts related to gap junctions, including advantages of electrical synapses in excitable cells, ubiquitous membrane permeable junctions, structural candidates for the permeable cell junction, ultrastructural characterization and correlations with cell coupling, molecular and structural studies of gap junction proteins, and two large families of gap junction proteins. Gap junctions in human disease and in murine models of human disease further discuss arcinogenesis, Charcot-Marie-tooth disease and mutations of Cx32, heart function and mutations of Cx43 and Cx40, cataract formation and mutations of Cx50, deafness and mutations of Cx26 and, fertility and targeted knockout of Cx37. Developmental studies now seem to hold particular promise, while studies in the field of cancer cell biology continue to make progress, including analysis of the relationship between connexin expression, processing, assembly, gating, and degradation and transformation to malignancy. Current studies of the properties of gap junction channels and of the cellular regulation of gap junction gating, formation, and turnover in relation to normal cell physiology may yield more specific functional information. Connexin-specific gap junction channels exhibit differences in electrical conductance and molecular permeability that are not directly correlated and dispute the contention that all gap junctions are large aqueous pores. DNAs encoding several connexins have been cloned and significant advances have been made in the correlation of sequence and function. The application of this knowledge to the development of transgenic animals exhibiting gain or loss of function of specific connexins continue to lead to more specific insights into the functional significance of particular connexins and innexins. In conclusion, it is unlikely that the progression of all cancers is dependent upon the activity of gap junctions. It is also unlikely that mechanisms of gap junction-mediated growth control will be identical in all cells or tumors where the activity of gap junctions can be demonstrated to play a pivotal role.
Modeling and simulation of FET structure for DNA sequencing applications

The paper presents an analysis of a sub-micron DNA-wire based FET. It describes the device structure, its bases of operation, introduces the device model and presents simulation results depicting internal and external device characteristics under different biasing conditions. Analyses of the simulation results as they relate to the DNA wire hybridization are discussed. The results indicate a high potential for utilizing this FET structure for DNA sequencing applications.
The Association Between Weight Status, Weight History, Physical Activity, and Cognitive Task Performance.

Physical activity has been shown to attenuate the association between overweight/obesity and deleterious cardiovascular health-related outcomes, with emerging work also taking the duration of overweight/obesity into consideration. No previous work, however, has explored the interrelationships between physical activity, obesity, and obesity duration in the context of cognitive task performance, which was the purpose of this study. Data from the 1999–2002 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were used (N = 2322 adults 60–85 yrs). Physical activity was assessed via self-report, with body mass index (BMI) directly measured. Participants were classified into one of eight mutually exclusive groups: (0) normal weight now and 10 years ago and active now (n = 195), (1) normal weight and 10 years ago and inactive now (n = 265), (2) normal weight now but not 10 years ago and active now (n = 46), (3) normal weight now but not 10 years ago and inactive now (n = 123), (4) overweight/obese now but not 10 years ago and active now (n = 117), (5) overweight/obese now but not 10 years ago and inactive now (n = 168), (6) overweight/obese now and 10 years ago and active now (n = 435), and (7) overweight/obese now and 10 years ago and inactive now (n = 973). The digit symbol substitution test (DSST) was employed to assess cognitive task performance. After adjustments, only individuals who were inactive (groups 1, 3, 5, and 7) had significantly lower cognitive task performance. Being inactive, regardless of weight classification and duration of overweight/obesity, was inversely associated with cognitive task performance in this national sample of older adults.
What Bariatric Surgery Can Teach Us About Endoluminal Treatment of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders.

Bariatric surgical procedures, including gastric bypass, vertical sleeve gastrectomy, and biliopancreatic diversion, are the most effective and durable treatments for obesity. In addition, These operations induce metabolic changes that provide weight-independent improvement in type 2 diabetes, fatty liver disease and other metabolic disorders. Initially thought to work by mechanical restriction of food intake or malabsorption of ingested nutrients, these procedures are now known to work through complex changes in neuroendocrine and immune signals emanating from the gut, including peptide hormones, bile acids, vagal nerve activity, and metabolites generated by the gut microbiota, all collaborating to reregulate appetite, food preference, and energy expenditure. Development of less invasive means of achieving these benefits would allow much greater dissemination of effective, gastrointestinal (GI)-targeted therapies for obesity and metabolic disorders. To reproduce the benefits of bariatric surgery, however, these endoscopic procedures and devices will need to mimic the physiological rather than the mechanical effects of these operations.
Voltage-controlled interlayer coupling in perpendicularly magnetized magnetic tunnel junctions.

C-SPIN, one of six centres of STARnet; Semiconductor Research Corporation programme - MARCO; DARPA; National Science Foundation [ECCS-1554011]; Division of Scientific User Facilities of the Office of Basic Energy Sciences (BES), U.S. Department of Energy (DOE); NSF CAREER award [1053854]; DOE Office of Science [DE-AC02-06CH11357]; NSF through the UMN MRSEC program [DMR-1420013]; CSE Minnesota Nano Center, UMN - NSF through the NNIN program
Supply elasticity matters for the rebound effect and its impact on policy comparisons

Abstract We develop a model of the rebound effect which explicitly accounts for both the demand and supply sides of the energy sources. We consider a transportation sector originally using a “dirty” (fossil) fuel and examine the relative effectiveness of alternative policies: efficiency improvements in the dirty fuel technology sector (e.g., CAFE standards) and technology shifts by partial adoption of a new clean technology (e.g., low-carbon fuel standards). The model generates endogenous equilibrium quantities and prices for the dirty and clean fuels. We characterize the magnitude of the rebound effect as a function of demand and supply elasticities and use the equilibrium values to compare policy options. When the supply of the dirty fuel is inelastic, we find that introducing a new technology with non-zero emissions may actually increase the total level of emissions, similar to the leakage effect. A technology shift policy can perform better than an efficiency improvement policy in the dirty fuel sector only when the dirty fuel supply is sufficiently elastic, the emission intensity of the new technology very low, and the technology shift is greater than a threshold value. Using data for gasoline (as a proxy for the dirty technology) and several other cleaner technologies, we show that these conditions are satisfied by a hypothetical zero-emission technology, but not by electric vehicles using the average US generation mix or the current US corn based E85. Our results demonstrate the importance of accounting for the supply side in estimating the magnitude of the rebound effect and its impact on fuel consumption in a large-scale policy implementation.
Cord Blood Stem Cells for Clinical Use: Diabetes and Cord Blood

Abstract Diabetes is a major global health issue, with prevalence rates exceeding 12.1% of the population in India, 11.6% in China, and 8.3% in the United States.1–3 A new study reveals that current prevalence of prediabetes in China was 50.1% of population (493.4 million).3 According to a report from the American Diabetes Association (Philadelphia), the total number of Americans living with diabetes will increase 64% by 2025, and diabetes-related Medicare expenditures will increase by 72% to $514 billion/year. Moreover, diabetes and its associated complications (e.g., cardiovascular diseases, stroke, kidney failure, and poor circulation) markedly decrease the quality of life, limiting the regular activity and productivity of individuals with the disease and creating significant economic and social burdens.4 Thus, it is a top priority to find a cure for diabetes. Clinically, there are two major types of diabetes such as type 1 diabetes caused by autoimmune destruction of islet β cells and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Insulin resistance is the hallmark of T2D. It is widely accepted that the inability of pancreatic β cells to function in compensating for insulin resistance leads to the onset of clinical diabetes. Persistent metabolic stresses including glucotoxicity, lipotoxicity, chronic metabolic inflammation, oxidative stress, and endoplasmic reticulum stress, cause progressive dysfunction of islet β cells and finally leads to the cellular death and absolute shortage of islet β cells in long-standing T2D subjects.5 This chapter will focus on the treatment of diabetes by using cord blood-derived multipotent stem cells, designated Stem Cell Educator Therapy.
In Situ X-ray Absorption Near-Edge Structure (XANES) Spectroscopic Investigation of the Pre-reduction of Iron-Based Catalysts for Non-oxidative Alkane Dehydrogenation

The reduction in a methane atmosphere of two as-prepared ferric oxide catalysts for the non-oxidative dehydrogenation of alkanes has been investigated by in situ X-ray absorption near-edge structur...
Projected UV-resin curing for self-supported 3D printing

Abstract This research introduces a new additive manufacturing process for support-free printing. This process uses an array of ultra-violet laser diodes to cure the jetted photopolymer at the laser intersection for rapid solidification. A prototype system using 405 nm laser is designed and built, and a process model is modified from conventional vat photopolymerization to find a proper range of printing speed. Using a speed of 1 mm/s for a flow rate about 0.5 mm3/s, a 60-degree overhanging structure can be repeatedly printed with commercial photopolymers. The study also discusses the challenges associated with fluid behaviors in such a dynamic condition.
Intraabdominal Approach During Donation-After-Cardiac-Death Procurement May Offer a Simpler and Faster Way to Achieve Thoracic Aorta Cross-Clamp

The number of donation-after-cardiac-death (DCD) procurements has continued to rise in recent years because of the unmet demand of patients on the transplant waitlist.[1][1] However, these organs are predisposed to challenges arising from ischemic insults. Here, we describe a technique that can
Design of a 25-Gb/s PAM-4 VCSEL Diode Driver with an Equalizer in 90-nm CMOS Technology

Herein, we propose a 25 Gb/s (12.5 Gbaud/s) 4-level pulse amplitude modulation (PAM-4) vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL) diode driver in TSMC 90 nm CMOS technology. In the VCSEL driver, an equalizer was designed using an edge peak generator to enhance the rising and falling edges of the data signal. The VCSEL driver can combine two 12.5 Gb/s non-return-zero (NRZ) input signals as a 25 Gb/s PAM-4 output current signal to drive a VCSEL diode. For the VCSEL diode driver, the total modulation current is 9.2 mA, the power consumption is 87.47 mW, and the chip size is 0.49 mm×0.49 mm.
Decolonizing the BSAC in Nyasaland: Economic and Developmental Implications, 1944–1967

ABSTRACTBritish colonial rule in Nyasaland (present-day Malawi), from 1891 to 1966, occurred alongside various businesses owned by British nationals. This article uses the case of the British South...
Iron Complexes of an Antiproliferative Aroyl Hydrazone: Characterization of Three Protonation States by Electron Paramagnetic Resonance Methods

Tridentate aroyl hydrazones are effective metal chelators in biological settings, and their activity has been investigated extensively for medicinal applications in metal overload, cancer, and neur...
Familiarity Trends of Successful Urology Residency Match Applicants

AbstractIntroduction:We sought to determine if training program “familiarity” played a role in the successful match of urological surgery residents.Methods:We analyzed information from successful u...
Roads less traveled: Nitrogen reduction reaction catalyst design strategies for improved selectivity

Abstract Direct electrochemical nitrogen reduction for ammonia production is necessary to reduce the use of fossil fuels from conventional Haber–Bosch methods. Applications of nitrogen reduction electrocatalysts remain inhibited by slow reaction kinetics and low faradaic efficiencies because of competitive H2 production pathways. Current strategies to address this challenge in selectivity have focused on catalyst design, reactor configuration, and electrolyte conditions. This brief review discusses the thermodynamic and kinetic challenges in the field as well as current underused approaches for selective catalyst development including bimetallic catalysts, transition metal nitrides, and carbon supports.
Blend Morphology in Polythiophene–Polystyrene Composites from Neutron and X-ray Scattering

In this work, contrast-variation small-angle and ultra-small-angle neutron scattering are used together with wide-angle X-ray scattering (WAXS) to characterize the bulk molecular conformation and s...
Clinical safety and efficacy of a preloaded monofocal hydrophobic acrylic intraocular lens in a real-world population.

This study was designed to evaluate visual, refractive and safety outcomes in eyes after they underwent phacoemulsification and implantation of a preloaded monofocal hydrophobic acrylic intraocular lens. This was a single center observational study conducted at Ashford and St Peter’s Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, United Kingdom. Patients were included if they had cataract extraction with in-the-bag implantation of the EyeCee® One preloaded intraocular lens from August to October 2019. Pre-operative, surgery-related and 2 weeks and 3 months post-operative data was collected. Surgeons at this trust were then asked to complete a feedback form to evaluate their experience of implanting the EyeCee® One. One hundred fifty-two eyes were included in the study. Ninety-four (62%) of these eyes had cataract but no concomitant ocular pathology that could potentially affect visual acuity. Three months post-operatively, 98.7% of all eyes had monocular CDVA ≤0.3 logMAR. 100% of the eyes without concomitant ocular pathology achieved this target. The mean CDVA of all eyes in this study improved from 0.43 ± 0.43 logMAR pre-operatively, to 0.05 ± 0.11 logMAR post-operatively (p < 0.05). The mean sphere and spherical equivalent values showed significant improvements (p < 0.05) and (p < 0.05). There were no intraoperative complications and 1.3% of patients reported complications 2 weeks post-operatively. All of the participating surgeons said they would use the EyeCee® One again with 64% providing an overall rating of ‘excellent’ for their experience of implanting this intraocular lens. This study indicates excellent post-operative visual acuity and refractive outcomes in eyes after EyeCee® One implantation. This is accompanied with very little risk of intraoperative and post-operative complications.
Subaxial Cervical Spine CT

Abstract Computed tomography (CT) scans are an important radiologic modality for imaging the subaxial cervical spine. CT scans are now commonly used to screen patients and identify fractures in the subaxial cervical spine, rather than radiographic imaging. This chapter describes and illustrates subaxial cervical anatomy on CT imaging, with a focus on measures of spine relationships and CT-based landmarks for discs and joint spaces. In addition, CT findings in subaxial cervical spine trauma, injury types, and systems for scoring subaxial cervical trauma using CT imaging are discussed. Such scoring systems are becoming increasingly useful tools for triaging traumatic subaxial cervical injuries and can help in guiding patient management decisions, including the delivery of surgical versus nonsurgical treatments.
Evaluation of a modified rapid viability-polymerase chain reaction method for Bacillus atrophaeus spores in water matrices.

Abstract A rapid method that provides information on the viability of organisms is needed to protect public health and ensure that remediation efforts following a release of a biological agent are effective. The rapid viability-polymerase chain reaction (RV-PCR) method combines broth culture and molecular methods to provide results on whether viable organisms are present in less than 15 h. In this study, a modified RV-PCR (mRV-PCR) method was compared to a membrane-filtration culture method for the detection of viable Bacillus spores in water matrices. Samples included small and large volumes of chlorine and non‑chlorine treated tap water. Large volume water samples (up to 100 L), were processed by ultrafiltration using a semi-automated waterborne pathogen concentrator, followed by centrifugation as a secondary concentration technique. The concentrated samples were analyzed by mRV-PCR and culture methods. The overall agreement between the mRV-PCR and culture methods when seed concentrations were greater than 10 spores per sample volume analyzed was 96%. The total time from the start of sample processing to the final sample result for the mRV-PCR method was decreased by approximately 2 h, in comparison to the previously published RV-PCR method because of the incorporation of shorter, more efficient primary and secondary concentration steps and a shorter DNA extraction technique. Overall, this study confirmed that RV-PCR is a promising approach for identifying viable Bacillus spores in small- and large-volume water samples and for producing results in less time than traditional culture methods.
Antennas in Glass Interposer For sub-THz Applications

The development of next generation (6G) wireless communications is expanding new spectrum bands into sub-terahertz (sub-THz) frequencies above 100 GHz, and the antenna is a key component in RF front-end modules (FEM) for such frequency bands. This paper demonstrates integrated packaging solutions for antenna components in D-band by using glass-based package. With the assistance of full-wave simulation in HFSS software, we design sub-THz patch antennas operating at 140 GHz frequency band, and form arrays of such patch antennas for 5G+/6G (sub-THz) wireless communication applications. The patch antennas and feeding networks are implemented by microstrip structures on the top of the glass interposer, with ground planes beneath. Build-up layers of polymer dry films are laminated on a glass core substrate for multi-layer copper metallization, and copper structures are patterned on the polymer layers. For precise fabrication of the antenna and feeding structures in package, we utilise the semi-additive patterning process to deposit the copper structures. By forming patch antenna arrays, we obtain 10.6 dBi gain using a 4-element linear array and 16.2 dBi gain using a 4-by-4 2-D rectangular array. The feeding methods of patch arrays are also discussed in the paper. The bandwidths achieved for these arrays are 7% (10 GHz) and 5% (7 GHz), respectively, based on return loss measurements. The measurement results present good match to simulation models, considering the uncertainties at such high frequencies. We believe that this is the first demonstration of glass-based antenna-in-package solution in D-band frequencies. Antenna structures on glass substrates illustrated in this paper represent one of the basic building blocks for the heterogeneous integration of sub-THz FEM in glass-based packages.
Interprofessional approach to the management of functional neurological symptoms with co-morbid concussions and hypermobility syndrome: a case report

Clinical education scenario: This case report describes the individualized treatment approach and clinical reasoning of a residency-trained physical therapist for an adolescent girl with symptoms of functional neurological symptom disorder (FNSD). Rationale for case study: There are limited research studies regarding successful treatment of pediatric FNSD. This case study provides evidence for an interprofessional treatment approach of an adolescent with symptoms of FNSD, including the role of a residency-trained physical therapist. Case description: A 15-year-old girl with symptoms of FNSD, multiple comorbidities, and history of concussions participated in an interprofessional treatment program lasting 1 year. Her treatment was assessed using the Energy Expenditure Index, Timed Up and Down Stairs, Five-Times Sit to Stand, 6-Minute Walk Test, and Functional Disability Index. The patient demonstrated improvement in all outcome measures post-treatment. Implications: The patient’s function was restored using an interprofessional treatment approach, which emphasized interpersonal communication. While future studies are needed to assess the efficacy of this treatment approach, this case report demonstrates that physical therapy residency training prepares a clinician to effectively treat complex patients with multi-system involvement.
NETWORK DESIGN APPLICATION OF AN EXTRACTION ALGORITHM FOR NETWORK AGGREGATION.

The performance of a network extraction algorithm is described, and the algorithm is tested by using the network design problem. A network is chosen as the original network and is aggregated at different levels. The results of the optimal decision making under a common set of alternative actions are then compared against the original and the aggregated networks. The results suggest that the network aggregation algorithm is a useful tool in simplifying networks to reduce the computational burden associated with the network design problem, and to allow a broader range of policy options to be tested in a fixed amount of computer time than would be allowed by using the original disaggregated network. (Author)
Measurement of acute dynamic anaerobic muscle fatigue using a novel Fatigue Resistance Index

A variety of isokinetic fatigue protocols have been previously reported in the literature. The purpose of this study was to examine a new protocol to objectively quantify dynamic concentric and eccentric muscle performance in individuals, or in a multiple subject group, under conditions of acute exhaustive exercise. Pre-fatigue maximal peak torque (PT) and peri-fatigue PT values were measured in unilateral dominant leg quadriceps femoris of human subjects using an isokinetic dynamometer. The protocol was based on single-velocity (90°/s) reciprocal-mode concentric/eccentric (CON/ECC) contractions fixed at 35 repetitions per set. A novel Fatigue Resistance Index (FRI) was then calculated for each individual subject for both CON and ECC contractions. The group CON FRI (36.5±3.9% maximal force) was greater than group ECC FRI (26.9± 2.7% maximal force). This protocol and FRI permit comparisons between eccentric and concentric dynamic anaerobic muscle performances for a given individual subject, or for a group of subjects.
Viewing microinsurance as a social risk management instrument

The objectives of this paper are to highlight some of the potential and limitations of microinsurance in the context of Social Risk Management (SRM) framework to stimulate further discussion. The paper draws on existing literature on SRM and microinsurance. Where relevant, it invokes lessons from microfinance. The authors conclude that there is potential for efficient and equitable risk management through microinsurance, but also limitations. Microinsurance may be an acceptable means of managing a few limited forms of risk, but not all. SRM practitioners need to recognize that effectiveness of any risk management instrument depends on the nature of risks, household and group characteristics and dynamics, and the availability of alternative risk management options. SRM options should strike a balance between household risk management activities and the multiple instruments available at different institutional levels, including informal, market-based, and publicly provided mechanisms. Microinsurance is a potential part of the SRM toolbox, but risk management can be enhanced through different mechanisms or combinations of them.
The State of Practice in Supply-Chain Management: A Research Perspective

In this chapter, I will describe examples of state-of-the-art practice in supply-chain management; e.g., vendor-managed inventory, quick response, and other contemporary systems, such as Wal-Mart's RetailLink. The perspective will be that of what I call the IDIB Portfolio; i.e., what Information (I), Decision-Making (D), Implementation (I), and Buffer (B) systems are employed in managing real-world supply chains. Most operations-research models consider only two components of this portfolio: the decision-making and the buffer systems. More specifically, most operations-research models involve selecting a decision-rule to minimize expected buffer (i.e., inventory-holding) and backorder cost given a fixed level of information. Implementation as a decision variable is typically ignored. However, in the real world, with changing information, communication, and implementation technologies, supply-chain management can — and should — be viewed as changing the nature of the entire IDIB Portfolio. After interpreting current practice from the perspective of the IDIB Portfolio, I will forecast future practice using Collaborative Planning, Forecasting, and Replenishment (CPFR) as an example. I will describe the elements of CPFR, identify companies that are using it, and the challenges they face in realizing its potential. Finally, I will identify research opportunities in CPFR, and, more generally, research opportunities involving the IDIB Portfolio.
Column: Factors Affecting Data Decay

In nuclear physics, the phrase decay rate is used to denote the rate that atoms and other particles spontaneously decompose. Uranium-235 famously decays into a variety of daughter isotopes including Thorium and Neptunium, which themselves decay to others. Decay rates are widely observed and wildly different depending on many factors, both internal and external. U-235 has a half-life of 703,800,000 years, for example, while free neutrons have a half-life of 611 seconds and neutrons in an atomic nucleus are stable. We posit that data in computer systems also experiences some kind of statistical decay process and thus also has a discernible decay rate. Like atomic decay, data decay fluctuates wildly. But unlike atomic decay, data decay rates are the result of so many different interplaying processes that we currently do not understand them well enough to come up with quantifiable numbers. Nevertheless, we believe that it is useful to discuss some of the factors that impact the data decay rate, for these factors frequently determine whether useful data about a subject can be recovered by forensic investigation. (see PDF for full column)
Optical properties of quantum wires and dots

Recent work on the optical properties of quantum wire and quantum dot systems is discussed, including carrier, phonon and photon states, electronphonon scattering and excitonic effects. In realistic systems the geometry often results in the equations for the elementary excitations being non-separable. Numerical methods for calculating these excitations are discussed with emphasis on “boundary element methods”, which we have recently developed. Electron-LO phonon scattering rates in quantum wires are given based on single particle results for electrons and phonons. Electron- acoustic phonon scattering rates in quantum dots including the effects of coupling to the dot surroundings and of a novel acoustic phonon scattering mechanism are discussed. For the optical transition energies comparisons are made with recent experimental results on a series of lithographically formed quantum wire and quantum dot structures, including deep etched and modulated barrier structures with and without magnetic fields. Exciton binding energies in these structures are calculated variationally and are found to depend on confinement and to be in agreement with experiment.
Why I Teach

I teach because I want our profession to be infused with integrity. I want my students to learn to use professionalism as the everyday lenses through which they view their legal practices, rather than to compartmentalize ethics into just another class or bar exam topic.
Kontrolle von Körperstellung und -bewegung

Die somatische motorische Aktivitat hangt prinzipiell von Entladungsmuster und -rate der spinalen motorischen Neurone und der analogen Neurone in den motorischen Kernen der Hirnnerven ab. Diese Neurone („gemeinsame motorische Endstrecke“ zu den Skeletmuskeln) werden von Impulsen aus einer Vielzahl von Leitungsbahnen „bombardiert“. Allein aus demselben Segment erreichen mindestens 10 verschiedene Zuleitungen das spinale motorische Neuron (Kap. 6). Auch zahlreiche suprasegmentale Leitungen konvergieren z. T. direkt zu dieser Stelle, z. T. indirekt (uber efferente gammamotorische Neurone — Muskelspindeln — afferente Ia-Fasern — Ruckenmark). Die integrierte Aktivitat der zahlreichen Einflusse von Ruckenmark, Medulla oblongata, Mittelhirn und corticalem Niveau reguliert die Korperstellung und ermoglicht koordinierte Bewegungen.
The Relationship of Religious Involvement to a Variety of Indicators of Cognitive Ability and Achievement in College Students.

A total of 635 undergraduates at a small, competitive, secular, liberal arts university in the Northeast were administered a brief questionnaire in which they reported anonymously their degree of religiousness, their Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) scores, and their grade point average (GPA). Religiousness was negatively related to ability as measured by SAT, and not related to achievement, as measured by GPA. The students' capacity to maximize their potential was measured by the difference (in standard score) between GPA and SAT, and revealed a strong, positive connection with degree of religiousness. A conceptual rationale for the diverse findings is presented by the author.
Reimagining Asylum: Religious Narratives and the Moral Obligation to the Asylum Seeker

The narrative that grounds the asylum policy of the United States portrays asylum seekers as passive objects of external forces. This narrative emerges from the complex interplay of exceptionality and victimization that characterizes the legal status and popular perception of the refugee. It is then read back onto the asylum seeker through a supereroga- tory asylum policy that is unable to recognize the moral demand made by the asylum seeker. The project this essay is drawn from seeks to challenge the policy of asylum as charity by interrogating alternative narratives grounded in the Hebrew Bible story of the Exodus and the Qu’ranic story of the Hijra. In these narratives, flight from oppression is portrayed as an act of moral agency, and the asylum seeker’s capacity as Other to make a moral demand on the Self emerges. Thus, I argue that an asylum policy informed by these alternative narratives needs must question its supererogatory assumptions. Le discours a la base de la politique d’asile des Etats-Unis represente les demandeurs d’asile comme des objets pas- sifs subissant des forces exterieures. Cette representation emerge de l’interaction complexe entre l’exception et la victimisation qui caracterise le statut legal et la perception populaire du refugie. Ce discours est renvoye au demandeur d’asile a travers une politique d’asile surerogatoire qui ne reconnait pas les exigences morales du demandeur d’asile. Cet article vise a remettre en question la politique de l’asile en tant que charite en faisant appel a des discours dif- ferents prenant leur source dans le recit biblique de l’Exode et dans le recit coranique de l’Hegire. Dans ces recits, la fuite de l’oppression est representee comme l’exercice d’une capacite morale, et emerge alors la capacite du demand- eur d’asile dans son alterite de faire une demande morale en tant que soi-meme. En consequence, on soutient qu’une politique d’asile basee sur ces alternatives doit remettre en question les presomptions surerogatoires.
Swimming With Tympanostomy Tubes

Tympanostomy tube insertion is one of the most commonly performed otolaryngologic operations. Approximately 700000 cases are performed annually. Postoperative otorrhea is one of the most common complications of TT insertion. Otorrhea occurs sporadically in 20% of patients and regularly in 10%. Prevention of otorrhea has traditionally included the strict prevention of water penetration into the external auditory canal. This has been primarily achieved by the use of barrier methods (cotton wool, custom earplugs, ear putty, bathing caps, etc), but in some cases chemical means in the form of ototopical drops have been advocated. The past decade has seen a plethora of journal articles addressing this issue of water precautions and swimming. The primary question is “can children with TTs or pressure equalization tubes be permitted to swim without any increased risk of infection?” Several related and important questions arise when this subject is discussed: Should swimming be limited to surface swimming only with deep swimming prohibited? Should children be allowed to dive? Is the type of water exposure important? Should ototopical drops be used as prophylaxis after swimming? There are diverse recommendations for “proper care” of the patient with a TT. What is the practicing otolaryngologist to do?
Field Trial of 10° Color-Mixture Functions

The field trials consist essentially of comparisons between the instrumental readings of the three primaries of the Donaldson colorimeter in matches on a number of filter colors (a) as obtained by actual observers and (b) as computed from the spectral energy distributions of the stimuli provided by the filter colors on the basis of various sets of color-mixture functions. In particular, the field trials were directed to test the proposed 10° standard color-mixture functions derived by Judd from the Stiles-Burch and Speranskaya data. It was found that the agreement between the chromaticities of 18 filter colors, as measured on the Donaldson colorimeter and as predicted from the proposed 10° standard color-mixture functions, was in some respects unsatisfactory. Various possible causes of the discrepancies were followed up by additional measurements and computations. However, for several filter colors, especially the blue to blue-green and near-white colors, the discrepancies remain unexplained. It seems conceivable that Grassmann’s laws of color mixture do not strictly apply to large-field color matching, although no specific experiments were included in the present investigation.
The bacteriologically battered baby: Another case of munchausen by proxy

We present a case in which a mother who had had self-inflicted infections as a teenager also caused life-threatening infections in her year-old child. After testing for and treating various immunologic deficiencies without success, it was apparent that the infection was caused by contamination of intravenous sites. Strict isolation of the patient, with restricted and observed visitations by the mother, was the critical step in stopping the infections. Because the woman took her child to several emergency departments, this case is presented to alert emergency personnel to this entity and to explain some of the dynamics and the social issues that cause the problem.