cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Enhancing effective throughput for transmission line-based bus

Main-stream general-purpose microprocessors require a collection of high-performance interconnects to supply the necessary data movement. The trend of continued increase in core count has prompted designs of packet-switched network as a scalable solution for future-generation chips. However, the cost of scalability can be significant and especially hard to justify for smaller-scale chips. In contrast, a circuit-switched bus using transmission lines and corresponding circuits offers lower latencies and much lower energy costs for smaller-scale chips, making it a better choice than a full-blown network-on-chip (NoC) architecture. However, shared-medium designs are perceived as only a niche solution for small- to medium-scale chips. In this paper, we show that there are many low-cost mechanisms to enhance the effective throughput of a bus architecture. When a handful of highly cost-effective techniques are applied, the performance advantage of even the most idealistically configured NoCs becomes vanishingly small. We find transmission line-based buses to be a more compelling interconnect even for large-scale chip-multiprocessors, and thus bring into doubt the centrality of packet switching in future on-chip interconnect.
Anterior maxillary osteotomy in a patient with congenital port-wine stain.

Abstract A case of anterior maxillary osteotomy in a patient with facial asymmetry associated with a facial and oral port-wine stain is reported. Consideration of the vascular syndromes associated with port-wine stain, and thorough clinical, conventional radiographic, and arteriographic examinations are essential prior to any major orthognathic surgery.
Effects of Road Crossings on Stream and Streamside Salamanders

Abstract Salamanders are important members of faunal communities in Appalachian Mountain (USA) streams, and the use of salamanders as bioindicators is increasing. Roads are a part of the modern landscape, but effects of roads on stream and streamside salamander diversity and abundance is not clear. We sampled streams in central West Virginia, USA, using quadrats placed along transects in the flowing channel, dry channel, and stream bank to assess salamander diversity, richness, and abundance during 2004. We used Akaike's Information Criterion for model selection at reach (i.e., above and below culverts) and stream scales. Salamander diversity and richness was affected by elevation, stream gradient, canopy cover, and the presence of roads. Overall, stream and riparian habitat quality was the most important factor affecting salamander richness. The presence of roads, stream gradient, and elevation received the most empirical support for predicting species' abundances. Roads benefited disturbance-tolerant sp...
Total intensity rayleigh scattering and depolarization from some benzene-nitroalkane solutions at 546 nm and 30°C

Abstract Total intensity Rayleigh scattering, depolarization, density, and change in refractive index with composition were measured for solutions of benzene with nitromethane, nitromethane- d 3 , nitroethane, 1-nitropropane and 2-nitropropane at 546 nm and 30°C. The concentration fluctuation contribution to the isotropic scattering was found and it was used to obtain the excess Gibbs energy of mixing of the binary solutions. The excess depolarization was calculated. It shows a sharp minimum near 0.5 mole fraction for some of the solutions. There are apparently at least two regions of quite different environment in the solutions. The results are qualitatively discussed in terms of competing nitroalkane self-association into either dimers or chains and nitroalkane-benzene association.
A network version of the Pump

A designer of reliable MLS networks must consider covert channels and denial of service attacks in addition to traditional network performance measures such as throughput, fairness, and reliability. We show how to extend the NRL data Pump to a certain MLS network architecture in order to balance the requirements of congestion control, fairness, good performance, and reliability against those of minimal threats from covert channels and denial of service attacks. We back up our claims with simulation results. >
Current best evidence translated into current best advice.

There is no substitute for scientifically tested and proven standards of care … Doing things one's ‘own way’ is unethical.
Trichloroacetic acid-induced protein precipitation involves the reversible association of a stable partially structured intermediate

Sample preparation for proteomic analysis involves precipitation of protein using 2,2,2-trichloroacetic acid (TCA). In this study, we examine the mechanism of the TCA-induced protein precipitation reaction. TCA-induced protein precipitation curves are U-shaped and the shape of the curve is observed to be independent of the physicochemical properties of proteins. TCA is significantly less effective in precipitating unfolded states of proteins. Results of the 1-anilino-8-napthalene sulfonate (ANS) and size-exclusion chromatography, obtained using acidic fibroblast growth factor (aFGF), show that a stable "molten globule-like" partially structured intermediate accumulates maximally in 5% (w/v) of trichloroacetate. Urea-induced unfolding and limited proteolytic digestion data reveal that the partially structured intermediate is significantly less stable than the native conformation. (1)H-(15)N chemical shift perturbation data obtained using NMR spectroscopy indicate that interactions stabilizing the beta-strands at the N- and C- terminal ends (of aFGF) are disrupted in the trichloroacetate-induced "MG-like" state. The results of the study clearly demonstrate that TCA-induced protein precipitation occurs due to the reversible association of the "MG-like" partially structured intermediate state(s). In our opinion, the findings of this study provide useful clues toward development of efficient protocols for the isolation and analysis of the entire proteome.
Framework for execution level capacity allocation decisions for assembly: test facilities using integrated optimization - simulation models

We present a framework for capacity allocation decisions for assembly-test (A-T) facilities that is comprised of an optimization model and a simulation model. The optimization and simulation models are used iteratively until a feasible and profitable capacity plan is generated. The models communicate using an automated feedback loop and at each iteration the model parameters are adjusted. We describe the role of the optimization model, the simulation model and the feedback loop. Once the capacity plan is generated, it is passed down to the shop-floor for implementation. Hence, decision makers can develop accurate and more profitable execution level capacity plans using the integrated model which utilizes both optimization and simulation models. In this paper, we focus on the optimization model for capacity planning for the entire A-T facility at the individual equipment (resource) level for a two-week planning period and briefly discuss the simulation and the adjustment model.
Effects of Generalism and Niche Overlap on Network Linkages Among Youth Service Agencies

From one theoretical perspective, exchange, dissimilar organizations link together because they must acquire needed resources from each other. From another perspective, homophily, similar organizat...
Canine scavenging of human remains in an indoor setting

This case study documents the nearly complete consumption of adult human remains by two domestic dogs (Canis familiaris) inside a residence. While scavenging behavior has been observed for coyotes, wolves, hyenas and other canines in natural outdoor environments, little information is available concerning canine scavenging of human remains in an indoor setting. In this case, the dogs were confined with the body inside a residence for approximately 1 month. The impact of intrinsic and extrinsic factors on canine scavenging behavior and the postmortem interval are examined, such as clothing on the body, perimortem trauma, drug ingestion and the availability of alternative food sources. While cases of canine scavenging of their owners are scant in the literature, this phenomenon is probably not uncommon, particularly among the elderly and indigent who live alone with pets and are socially isolated.
Insulin-like growth factor 1 and muscle growth: implication for satellite cell proliferation

Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) has been shown to rescue the aging-related or inactivity-induced loss of muscle mass through the activation of satellite cells. However, the signalling pathways and the mechanism by which IGF-1 affects satellite cells have not been not completely identified. The purpose of the present review is to provide current understanding of the cellular and molecular events underlying IGF-1 induced proliferation of satellite cells.
Bipartite Riemann-Finsler geometry and Lorentz violation

Abstract Bipartite Riemann–Finsler geometries with complementary Finsler structures are constructed. Calculable examples are presented based on a bilinear-form coefficient for explicit Lorentz violation.
Crucial weather information for successful integration and operations of UAS in the NAS

▪ Demand for Unmanned Aircraft Systems has been growing (both military & civilian) because of many potential applications ▪ Challenge of routine UAS access into the NAS must be addressed for public acceptance ▪ Accurate and real-time weather information is crucial for the successful integration & operations of UAS in the NAS
Preliminary experience with MR-guided thermal ablation of brain tumors

PURPOSE To evaluate the feasibility of a technique of MR-guided stereotactic radio frequency ablation, which was developed as a minimally invasive treatment for brain tumors, and to determine MR characteristics and sequential evolution of radio frequency lesions created to ablate brain tumors. METHODS Fourteen lesions in 12 patients with primary and metastatic brain tumors were treated with this technique and followed for up to 10 months. The stereotactic coordinates of the tumor and the angle of the radio frequency probe were calculated on MR imaging. The radio frequency lesion was generated in the awake patient by increasing the temperature to 80 degrees C within the tumor for 1 minute. This was repeated until the entire tumor volume was destroyed. MR imaging was performed before, during, and immediately after the radio frequency procedure, and sequential MR was obtained during clinical follow-up. RESULTS MR imaging clearly showed well-defined radio frequency lesions and provided feedback for treatment planning. The radio frequency lesion boundary was well identified as a dark signal rim on T2-weighted images and showed ring enhancement on contrast-enhanced T1-weighted images. The sequential MR imaging showed the radio frequency lesions decreased in volume in all cases, suggesting focal control. CONCLUSION Stereotactic MR-guided radio frequency brain tumor ablation is a feasible and promising technique that can be an attractive brain tumor treatment alternative. MR provided not only accurate tumor location but also visualization of feedback of thermal tissue changes that reflected therapeutic effect.
TOWARD A THEORY AND PRACTICE FOR WHOLE-PERSON LEARNING: RECONCEPTUALIZING EXPERIENCE AND THE ROLE OF AFFECT

Although the importance of affect is acknowledged in the North American literature on adult learning and adult education, its role remains undertheorized. We argue that the influence of American pr...
DWINS: a dynamically configurable Web-based information system

DWINS is a dynamically configurable Web-based information system we built for inventory management. It is flexible, secure and active. The database structure can be adjusted any time, even after the system has been configured and starts running. All existing functions are applicable on all new database objects once they are created. Furthermore, the functions of the system are not fixed and key operations can easily be extended and configured. High-level security is implemented by checking permission before any operation is actually carried out. Flexible fine-grain level access control is achieved with the combination of access level, group control and user access list mechanisms. By providing an alert manager, the system can actively notify the users when important events occur. Thus the system is no longer simply waiting for user commands passively but plays a more active and important role.
Real Exchange Rate Volatility and Imports of Intermediate Inputs: A Microeconometric Analysis of Manufacturing Plants

This paper uses plant-level data from the manufacturing sector of Chile for the period 1995–2007 to examine the effect of real exchange rate (RER) volatility on imports of intermediate inputs at the micro level. Using input–output tables, we construct sector-level RERs relevant for input import decisions and find that increases in the RER and its volatility reduce the fraction of imported intermediate inputs used by plants, while plants' probability of importing is not affected. Thus, fluctuations in the RER affect the intensive margin of imports (the amount of inputs imported) but not the extensive margin (the decision to import).
Perceived Risks from Live Viral Vaccines

Live viral vaccines work by exposing the immune system to an attenuated form of viruses that typically cause infections. The immune response engendered by these vaccines provides protection with subsequent exposure to wild type viruses, resulting in either no disease or a milder form of disease with fewer associated complications. This chapter discusses both real and perceived adverse effects associated with the more commonly used live virus vaccines.
Substituted sulfonamides, ureas, and alkyl-3-nitrophthali-mides as identification derivatives of pentyl-, hexyl-, heptyl-, octyl-, and decylamines

p-Bromo-,m-nitro-,p-nitrobenzenesulfonamides,p-toluenesulfonamides,p-tolyl-, anda-naphthylureas, and 3-nitrophthalimide derivatives of pentyl-, hexyl-, heptyl-, octyl-, and decylamines were prepared.m-Nitrobenzenesulfonamides,p-nitrobenzensulfonamides, andp-tolylureas appear to be the most satisfactory derivatives for the identification of these amines.
Consistency and Completeness—A Résumé

(1956). Consistency and Completeness—A Resume. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 63, No. 5, pp. 295-305.
Fabrication of A Barium Titanate-Strontium Titanate Strained Layer Superlattice

A thin film superlattice heterostructure composed of alternating BaTiO 3 and SrTiO 3 layers was grown on a thin YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7 electrode templated on a (100) SrTiO 3 wafer using the pulsed laser deposition method. Stranski-Krastanov nucleation of the layers was demonstrated using atomic force microscopy (AFM) when processing conditions were maintained at 6 millitorr oxygen partial pressure, and 550 °C substrate temperatures. High-resloution x-ray diffraction (HRXRD) measurements indicate that all the deformation was concentrated in the BaTiO 3 layers with c/a extension to approximately 1.08. Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy (RBS) results indicate excellent crystallinity in the heterostructure. The microstructural data suggests that the theoretical critical thickness of the film has been surpassed by an order of magnitude.
Janus Face of Coronary Artery Disease and Chronic Kidney Disease.

Janus is the ancient Roman god of beginning and transition. He is depicted as having 2 faces that can look back to the past and also into the future. Lindner and colleagues first reported that hemodialysis patients have accelerated atherosclerosis and cautioned that cardiovascular mortality could be
Single incision robotic colorectal surgery: History, indications, and techniques for success with single incision colectomy

Abstract Colorectal surgery has made significant strides in the past decade progressing from laparoscopy to robotics and from multiple to single-port implementations. In selected demographics, single incision robotic colectomy (SIRC) can be an effective tool in providing an oncologic resection with excellent cosmesis. We reviewed the current state of single incision robotic colorectal surgery incorporating our institutions retrospective database for single incision robotic surgery from 2010 to 2014 to assess the viability of SIRC. Our analysis indicates that SIRC is appropriate for right, left, and sigmoid colon resections in individuals with BMI
The inclusion-exclusion rule and its application to the junction tree algorithm

In this paper, we consider the inclusion-exclusion rule - a known yet seldom used rule of probabilistic inference. Unlike the widely used sum rule which requires easy access to all joint probability values, the inclusion-exclusion rule requires easy access to several marginal probability values. We therefore develop a new representation of the joint distribution that is amenable to the inclusion-exclusion rule. We compare the relative strengths and weaknesses of the inclusion-exclusion rule with the sum rule and develop a hybrid rule called the inclusion-exclusion-sum (IES) rule, which combines their power. We apply the IES rule to junction trees, treating the latter as a target for knowledge compilation and show that in many cases it greatly reduces the time required to answer queries. Our experiments demonstrate the power of our approach. In particular, at query time, on several networks, our new scheme was an order of magnitude faster than the junction tree algorithm.
A Spatial Analysis of Anasazi Architecture, A.D. 950–1150, Moapa Valley, Nevada

ABSTRACTUntil recently, there has been no temporal sequence within the Lost City phase, the expression of Pueblo I and II in the lowland Virgin Branch area. Recently isolated trends in the local ceramic sequence permit identification of sites dating to A.D. 950–1100, the later part of the Lost City phase. This ceramic chronology allows study of architecture by time period. During the Lost City phase, household units occupy contiguous habitation and storage rooms, but room sizes are not sharply differentiated. In the final phase of Anasazi occupancy, dating ca. A.D. 1100–1150 and known as the Mesa House phase, the room size distribution at the type site exhibits a strong positive skew toward very small enclosures of less than 2.5 m2. At Mesa House, the area of storage space, about 12.5 m2 per habitation unit, is higher that at late Lost City phase sites, suggesting a shift to communal storage, and may indicate the emergence of multifamily corporate groups in the lowland Virgin Branch.
Create moving target defense in static networks by learning from botnets

Network disruptive attacks, such as Distributed Denial-of-service (DDos) attacks, routing attacks, and Man-in-the-middle attacks, are a major impediment in the development of networks. The static nature of network configuration enables adversaries attack these networks to effectively discover and disrupt network resources remotely. Similar to network disruptive threats, the root of many security threats is the static or relatively stable status of the system, which can be easily exploited by attackers. A recent census regarding the game-changing theme of cyber security leads us to Moving Target Defense (MTD). The MTD aims to change the uneven cost between attackers and defenders caused by the static systems. Unfortunately, what to do and how to do it currently are not clear for MTD in network systems, even though there are several recent innovative security research attempts on host and software dynamics to increase the cost of the attacker. Thus, this project will address this new, yet challenging, issue of MTD in the static network systems. Although the research on MTD in static networks is in its infant stage, the attackers have actually accumulated valuable experiences and ideas in this area. The history of the botnet, which is a collection of compromised nodes (computers, which are also known as bots) connected through a network, vividly represents the evolution from static to `moving' networks. Therefore, this project starts with a thorough investigation on the moving techniques used in the recent botnets. The objective of this research is to design an innovative moving target defense framework that will improve resiliency and harden existing static networks by learning from recent botnets. This framework will make the static network move to the disadvantage of the attackers, by increasing an attacker's uncertainty, difficulty, and cost in the network disruptive attacks.
Characterization of rare-earth resources at Mountain Pass, CA using high-resolution X-ray microtomography (HRXMT)

The characterization of rare-earth resources in 3D is now possible using high-resolution X-ray microtomography (HRXMT) to describe ore texture and mineral phase composition. In addition, detailed texture analysis, including grain exposure and mineral association, can be described. Preliminary examination of a sample of Mountain Pass ore is reported to describe the spatial distribution of the mineral phases (calcite, barite and bastnaesite), particularly the grain size distribution of bastnaesite. The examination includes analysis of selected particle size classes to determine the appropriate size for liberation of the rare-earth mineral bastnaesite. Good liberation is expected to be achieved if the material is ground to a top size of -150 μm.
A Risk-Reduction Model of Sharing: Role of Social Stimuli and Inequity

The present study experimentally investigated human cooperation (sharing) in a laboratory foraging task that simulated environmental variability and resource scarcity (shortfall risk). Specifically, it investigated whether a risk-reduction model of food sharing derived from the energy budget rule could predict human cooperative behavior. Participants responded on a computer task for money and were given the choice between working alone or working with others and pooling earnings. Earnings could be kept only if the sum exceeded an earnings requirement (i.e., a need level). The effects of social variables on sharing were investigated to determine whether they constrained optimal decision making. The experiments investigated choice when participants were told the partner was a computer or a (fictitious) partner (Experiment 1) and when the earnings between the participant and partner were inequitable (Experiment 2). The results showed that social variables had no effect on decision making. Instead, sharing patterns were in accord with predictions of the risk-reduction model. These results provide additional evidence that a risk-reduction model of food sharing derived from risk-sensitive foraging models may be useful for predicting human cooperation for monetary outcomes.
Should Medicare Value-Based Purchasing Take Social Risk into Account?

A new report shows that Medicare beneficiaries with social risk factors had worse outcomes than other beneficiaries on many quality measures, and providers that disproportionately served such beneficiaries tended to have worse performance on quality measures.
New insights concerning homology of the oral region and ambulacral system plating of pentaradial echinoderms

Universal elemental homology (UEH) underpins recent understanding of peristomial and ambulacral elemental homology of pentaradiate echinoderms by providing a uniform set of terminology to construct phylogenetic characters. Variation in the expression of these elements provides evidence for phylogenetic relationships. Two nonhomologous sets of plates border the peristome and are associated with two nonhomologous sets of floor plates forming the ambulacral food groove. Some edrioasteroid-grade and eocrinoid-grade echinoderms have ambulacral systems formed from oral frame plates and adradial floor plates, whereas most blastozoans and crinoids bear oral plates and abradial floor plates. These plates are expressed in a variety of ways among echinoderms, but nearly all can be reconciled with the underlying model. Arguments against UEH are methodologically flawed and confuse many terms and interpretations.
Spiritual care of the woman physician: Insights from Edith Stein and the Catholic tradition

In the face of physician stress, burn-out, divorce, and suicide, the spiritual care of the Catholic woman physician must be addressed. Employing the insights of Edith Stein and the Catholic traditi...
The Algebra f

1.1.1. A Carton datum is a pair (l, ·) consisting of a finite set I and a symmetric bilinear form \(v,{\rm{ }}v\prime \mapsto v{\rm{ }} \cdot {\rm{ }}v\prime\) on the free abelian group Z[I], with values in Z. It is assumed that:
The Epistemology of Computer-Mediated Proofs

Epistemology includes in large part investigation of the conditions by which rational human knowledge and belief, of the propositional variety, can be secured. Our particular instance of this investigation arises from the stipulation that a human (a) receives a partial or complete formal argument/proof (\(\mathcal {A}\)) for/of a conclusion ϕ, where some computing machine \(\mathcal {M}\) “stands between” or mediates a’s receiving \(\mathcal {A}\) and ϕ. The mediation can take any number of forms, ranging from the simple and mundane (e.g., a is a teacher who types in to a text-editing system a proof of some easy theorem for a math class, and then prints out the proof for subsequent study and presentation to the class) to the exotic and famous (e.g., a receives a too-big-to-survey printout of a computer-generated proof of the four-color theorem). Under what conditions is it rational for a to believe ϕ? Once we have erected at least a reasonably precise framework for understanding the structure of arguments and proofs, classifying computing machines, ranking strength of knowledge and belief, and distinguishing at least roughly between types of computer mediation, this result, as we indicated, is a framework in which this pair of questions (and other, related ones) can eventually be answered.
TVS Transient Behavior Characterization and SPICEBased Behavior Model

A SPICE model for the transient behavior of TVS devices is presented. TVS devices under ESD stress do not turn on instantaneously and a transient overshoot can be oUserved at start-up. This model includes small signal RF behavior, quasi-static VI curve, inductive overshoot, conductivity modulation, snapUack trigger delay and the ability to be used on any SPICE simulation.
A Threshold Switch Augmented Hybrid-FeFET (H-FeFET) with Enhanced Read Distinguishability and Reduced Programming Voltage for Non-Volatile Memory Applications

In this work, we demonstrate a novel Hybrid-FeFET (H-FeFET) that leverages the threshold switching characteristics of Ag/HfO 2 to overcome the fundamental trade-off between memory window MW /read current ratio (I read,1 /I read,0 ) , and program voltage (V prog )/maximum electric-field in standard FeFETs for non-volatile memory application. The H-FeFET incorporates the threshold switch (TS) in the source of the FeFET, and is designed to exhibit a ferroelectric state-dependent volatile HRS to LRS transition (I ON /I OFF >107) – during read, the TS turns ON only if the FeFET is in the low-V T SET state, and remains OFF if the FeFET is in the high-V T RESET state, thus, selectively suppressing the RESET read current. Leveraging this principle, the H-FeFET: a Demonstrates 77% higher MW and 1000× larger I read,1 /I read,0 compared to the FeFET, at iso-V prog (DC); (b) Enables 25% reduction in V prog at iso-I read,1 /I read,0 during pulse operation-facilitated by the 8× improvement in I read,1 /I read,0 ; (c) Exhibits 2.5×reduction in programming power at iso-I read,1 /I read,0 in the H-FeFET-based AND array architecture, as shown by simulations. Thus, the H-FeFET overcomes the FeFET design challenges while retaining its existing advantages, making it a promising candidate for nonvolatile memory applications.
Implementing a Home-Based Telehealth Group Adherence Intervention with Adolescent Transplant Recipients.

Abstract Introduction: To improve access to care and engage adolescent transplant recipients for adherence-promoting interventions, innovative solutions utilizing technology are needed. Materials a...
Soft Law in the Organization and General Conduct of Commercial Arbitration Proceedings

This commentary examines the growing use of Soft Law - non-binding guidelines that currently play an important role in organizing and conducting commercial arbitration proceedings. Standards such as the UNCITRAL Notes on Organizing Arbitral Proceedings, the ICC Techniques for Controlling Time and Costs in Arbitration, and the Protocols for Expeditious, Cost-Effective Commercial Arbitration have evolved from professional discourse regarding process management and more particular concerns about cost, delay and inefficiency in arbitration. Collectively, these guidelines reflect a growing recognition that deliberate and proactive effort by business users, counsel, arbitrators and provider institutions is critical to making the most of arbitration and counteracting recent trends. They influence the activities of business clients and counsel, arbitrators and arbitral institutions.
Demonstration of mid-wavelength infrared nBn photodetectors based on type-II InAs/InAs1-xSbx superlattice grown by metal-organic chemical vapor deposition

We report design, growth, and characterization of midwavelength infrared nBn photodetectors based on a type-II InAs/InAs1-xSbx superlattice on a GaSb substrate grown by metal-organic chemical vapor deposition. An InAs/AlAs1-ySby/InAs/InAs1-xSbx superlattice design was used as the large bandgap electron barrier in the photodetectors. At 150 K, the photodetector exhibits a peak responsivity of 1.23 A/W, corresponding to a quantum efficiency of 41% at an applied bias voltage of −100 mV under front-side illumination, with a 50% cut-off wavelength of 4.6 μm. With an R × A of 356 Ω cm2 and a dark current density of 1.6 × 10−4 A/cm2 under an applied bias of −100 mV at 150 K, the photodetector exhibits a specific detectivity of 1.4 × 1011 cm Hz1/2/W.
Left Ventricular Noncompaction: A Rare Case of Nonischemic Cardiomyopathy

Isolated left ventricular noncompaction (LVNC) is a rare form of cardiomyopathy that is characterized by deep intertrabecular recesses and abnormal trabeculations that can be observed on transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) or cardiac MRI (CMR) studies. Our case describes a 41-year-old male who presented with exertional chest pain and was discovered to have significantly reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) which was nonischemic in etiology as confirmed by cardiac catheterization. Subsequent evaluation with CMR imaging revealed noncompaction of the left ventricle. The patient received defibrillation and lifelong anticoagulation given his elevated risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD). This case highlights the importance of considering unconventional etiologies of cardiomyopathy when investigating new-onset heart failure as well as the necessity of life-saving measures such as anticoagulation and defibrillator implantation in view of arrhythmogenic structural heart diseases.
Tightening a Tension-Control Bolt without a Tension-Control Gun

AbstractTension control (TC) bolts are the most-used bolt in steel building construction. They are designed to be tightened using a TC gun. It is not unusual to find places where the TC gun will no...
Integrating Stereoscopic Video with Modular 3D Anatomic Models for Lateral Skull Base Training.

Introduction Current virtual reality (VR) technology allows the creation of instructional video formats that incorporate three-dimensional (3D) stereoscopic footage.Combined with 3D anatomic models, any surgical procedure or pathology could be represented virtually to supplement learning or surgical preoperative planning. We propose a standalone VR app that allows trainees to interact with modular 3D anatomic models corresponding to stereoscopic surgical videos. Methods Stereoscopic video was recorded using an OPMI Pentero 900 microscope (Zeiss, Oberkochen, Germany). Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) images segmented axial temporal bone computed tomography and each anatomic structure was exported separately. 3D models included semicircular canals, facial nerve, sigmoid sinus and jugular bulb, carotid artery, tegmen, canals within the temporal bone, cochlear and vestibular aqueducts, endolymphatic sac, and all branches for cranial nerves VII and VIII. Finished files were imported into the Unreal Engine. The resultant application was viewed using an Oculus Go. Results A VR environment facilitated viewing of stereoscopic video and interactive model manipulation using the VR controller. Interactive models allowed users to toggle transparency, enable highlighted segmentation, and activate labels for each anatomic structure. Based on 20 variable components, a value of 1.1 × 1012 combinations of structures per DICOM series was possible for representing patient-specific anatomy in 3D. Conclusion This investigation provides proof of concept that a hybrid of stereoscopic video and VR simulation is possible, and that this tool may significantly aid lateral skull base trainees as they learn to navigate a complex 3D surgical environment. Future studies will validate methodology.
U.S. and Korean Consumers: A Cross-Cultural Examination of Product Information-Seeking and -Giving

This study compared information-seeking behavior in the context of electronic word-of-mouth and user generated content between United States and South Korean consumers. Authors content analyzed 1,8...
Enhanced immortalization, HUWE1 mutations and other biological drivers of breast invasive carcinoma in Black/African American patients.

Abstract Black/African-American (B/AA) breast cancer patients tend to have more aggressive tumor biology compared to White/Caucasians. In this study, a variety of breast tumor molecular expression profiles of patients derived from the two racial groupings were investigated. Breast invasive carcinoma sample data (RNASeq version 2, Reverse Phase Protein Array, mutation, and miRSeq data) from the Cancer Genome Atlas were examined. The results affirm that B/AA patients are more likely than Caucasian patients to harbor the aggressive basal-like or the poor prognosis-associated HER2-enriched molecular subtypes of breast cancer. There is also a higher incidence of the triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) among B/AA patients than the general population, a fact reflected in the mutation patterns of genes such as PIK3CA and TP53. Furthermore, an immortalization signature gene set, is enriched in samples from B/AA patients. Among stage III patients, TERT, DRAP1, and PQBP1, all members of the immortalization gene signature set, are among master-regulators with increased activity in B/AA patients. Master-regulators driving differences in expression profiles between the two groups include immortalization markers, senescence markers, and immune response and redox gene products. Differences in expression, between B/AA and Caucasian patients, of RB1, hsa-let-7a, E2F1, c-MYC, TERT, and other biomolecules appear to cooperate to enhance entry into the S-phase of the cell cycle in B/AA patients. Higher expression of miR-221, an oncomiR that facilitates entry into the cell cycle S-phase, is regulated by c-MYC, which is expressed more in breast cancer samples from B/AA patients. Furthermore, the cell migration- and invasion-promoting miRNA, miR-135b, has increased relative expression in B/AA patients. Knock down of the immortalization marker TERT inhibited triple-negative breast cancer cell lines (MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468) cell viability and decreased expression of TERT, MYC and WNT11. For those patients with available survival data, prognosis of stage II patients 50 years of age or younger at diagnosis, was distinctly poorer in B/AA patients. Also associated with this subset of B/AA patients are missense mutations in HUWE1 and PTEN expression loss. Relative to Caucasian non-responders to endocrine therapy, B/AA non-responders show suppressed expression of a signature gene set on which biological processes including signaling by interleukins, circadian clock, regulation of lipid metabolism by PPARα, FOXO-mediated transcription, and regulation of TP53 degradation are over-represented. Thus, we identify molecular expression patterns suggesting diminished response to oxidative stress, changes in regulation of tumor suppressors/facilitators, and enhanced immortalization in B/AA patients are likely important in defining the more aggressive molecular tumor phenotype reported in B/AA patients.
Provision of care through telemedicine during a natural disaster: a case study.

Introduction As the frequency and intensity of natural disasters increases, disaster preparedness is necessary for individuals with disabilities, including those with spinal cord injury (SCI). However, despite vulnerability to poorer outcomes, disaster preparedness for individuals with SCI is inadequate. Telemedicine has been effectively used to mitigate the impact of natural disasters. In this case study, we describe the provision of clinical care, via telemedicine, to an individual with SCI who was affected by the California Valley Fire in 2015. Case presentation The individual described was an adult who sustained a SCI. Before discharge from acute inpatient rehabilitation, they enrolled in a research study, through which they received outpatient SCI-specific care via telemedicine (teleSCI). The participant attended several teleSCI visits prior to the start of the Valley Fire. In the midst and immediate aftermath of prolonged wildfire, and despite experiencing significant personal loss as a result of the fire, the participant continued to receive teleSCI services. TeleSCI was used to address emergent and extant medical concerns and to facilitate replacement of medical supplies and equipment destroyed by fire. Discussion TeleSCI was used to provide continuity of care and was responsive to the needs of an individual with SCI severely affected by wildfire. Emergency preparedness that meets the needs of persons with disabilities is critical during times of crisis. Telemedicine may be an effective tool that can be applied to meet the medical needs of individuals with SCI and to mitigate the impact of disasters.
Does Chatter Matter? The Impact of User-Generated Content on Music Sales

Abstract The Internet has enabled a new era of user-generated content, threatening the hegemony of traditional content generators as the primary sources of “legitimate” information. In this study, we examine the usefulness of such content, consisting of data from blogs and social networking sites, in predicting sales in the music industry. We track changes in online chatter for a sample of 108 albums for four weeks before and after their release dates. We identify the significance of variables on the observation date in predicting future album unit sales one, two, and three weeks ahead. Our findings are that future sales are positively correlated with (a) the volume of blog posts about an album, and (b) traditional factors such as whether the album is released by a major label and reviews from mainstream sources like Rolling Stone . More generally, the study provides some preliminary answers for marketing managers interested in assessing the relative importance of the burgeoning number of “Web 2.0” information metrics that are becoming available on the Internet. The study also provides a framework for thinking about when user-generated content influences decision making.
Three-Dimensional Bioprinting of Anatomically Realistic Tissue Constructs for Disease Modeling and Drug Testing.

Three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting is an emerging tissue engineering technology, already with several remarkable accomplishments and with more promises to fulfill. Besides the enduring goal of maki...
Induction of a Timed Metabolic Collapse to Overcome Cancer Chemoresistance

Cancer relapse begins at the moment malignant cells pass through the extreme metabolic bottleneck of stress from chemotherapy and the by-products of massive surrounding cell death. In acute myeloid leukemia (AML), complete remissions are common, but few are cured. We tracked AML cells in vivo, defined the moment of maximal response following chemotherapy, captured persisting cells and conducted unbiased metabolic analysis, revealing a metabolite profile distinct from the pre-chemo growth or post-chemo relapse phase. Persisting cells used glutamine in a distinctive manner, preferentially fueling pyrimidine synthesis and glutathione generation, but not oxidative phosphorylation. Notably, malignant cell pyrimidine synthesis also required aspartate provided by specific bone marrow stromal cells. Blunting glutamine metabolism or pyrimidine synthesis selected against residual cells and improved survival in AML mouse models. We propose that timed cell-intrinsic or niche-focused metabolic disruption can exploit a transient vulnerability and induce a metabolic collapse in cancer cells to overcome chemoresistance.
Physical properties of the noncentrosymmetric superconductor Nb 0 . 18 Re 0 . 82

We report the synthesis and measurements of magnetic, transport, and thermal properties of polycrystalline ${\mathrm{Nb}}_{0.18}{\mathrm{Re}}_{0.82}$, which has a superconducting transition at ${T}_{c}$ \ensuremath{\sim} 8.8 K. The noncentrosymmetric \ensuremath{\alpha}-Mn structure of the compound is confirmed by x-ray diffraction. Using the measured values for the lower critical field ${H}_{c1}$, upper critical field ${H}_{c2}$, and the specific heat $C$, we estimate the thermodynamic critical field ${H}_{c}$(0), coherence length \ensuremath{\xi}(0), penetration depth \ensuremath{\lambda}(0), and the Ginzburg-Landau parameter \ensuremath{\kappa}(0). The specific heat jump at ${T}_{c}$, \ensuremath{\Delta}C/$\ensuremath{\gamma}{T}_{c}$ $=$ 1.86, suggests that ${\mathrm{Nb}}_{0.18}{\mathrm{Re}}_{0.82}$ is a moderately coupled superconductor. Below ${T}_{c}$ the electronic specific heat decays exponentially, suggesting that the gap is isotropic. Our data suggest that the triplet admixture is weak in the polycrystalline form of compound. However, the estimated value of the upper critical field ${H}_{c2}$(0) is close to the calculated Pauli limit.
Virulent but not temperate bacteriophages display hallmarks of rapid translation initiation

Bacteriophages rely almost exclusively on host-cell machinery to produce their proteins, and their mRNAs must therefore compete with host mRNAs for valuable translational resources. In many bacterial species, highly translated mRNAs are characterized by the presence of a Shine-Dalgarno sequence motif upstream of the start codon and weak secondary structure within the start codon region. However, the general constraints and principles underlying the translation of phage mRNAs are largely unknown. Here, we show that phage mRNAs are highly enriched in strong Shine-Dalgarno sequences and have comparatively weaker secondary structures in the start codon region than host-cell mRNAs. Phage mRNAs appear statistically similar to the most highly expressed host genes in E. coli according to both features, strongly suggesting that they initiate translation at particularly high rates. Interestingly, we find that these observations are driven largely by virulent phages and that temperate phages encode mRNAs with similar start codon features to their host genes. These findings apply broadly across a wide-diversity of host-species and phage genomes. Further study of phage translational regulation--with a particular emphasis on virulent phages--may provide new strategies for engineering phage genomes and recombinant expression systems more generally.
The Cycle of Coalition: How Parties and Voters Interact under Coalition Governance

How does coalition governance shape voters' perceptions of government parties and how does this, in turn, influence party behaviors? Analyzing cross-national panel surveys, election results, experiments, legislative amendments, media reports, and parliamentary speeches, Fortunato finds that coalition compromise can damage parties' reputations for competence as well as their policy brands in the eyes of voters. This incentivizes cabinet partners to take stands against one another throughout the legislative process in order to protect themselves from potential electoral losses. The Cycle of Coalition has broad implications for our understanding of electoral outcomes, partisan choices in campaigns, government formation, and the policy-making process, voters' behaviors at the ballot box, and the overall effectiveness of governance.
Racial Disparities in Incidence of Legionnaires' Disease and Social Determinants of Health: A Narrative Review.

ObjectivesRacial and socioeconomic disparities in the incidence of Legionnaires’ disease have been documented for the past 2 decades; however, the social determinants of health (SDH) that contribut...
Strain sensing technology for high temperature applications

This review paper discusses the status of strain sensing technology for high temperature applications. Technologies covered are those supported by NASA such as required for applications in hypersonic vehicles and engines, advanced subsonic engines, as well as material and structure development. The applications may be at temperatures of 540 C (1000 F) to temperatures in excess of 1400 C (2500 F). The most promising technologies at present are the resistance strain gage and remote sensing schemes. Resistance strain gages discussed include the BCL gage, the LaRC compensated gage, and the PdCr gage. Remote sensing schemes such as laser based speckle strain measurement, phase-shifting interferometry and X-ray extensometry will be discussed. Present status and limitations of these technologies are presented.
How to Optimize Your Research During a Pandemic - A Summary of Discussions From the Association for Academic Surgery Town Hall and Lessons Learned From 2020.

The year 2020 was an unprecedented year for all of us, including for the academic surgery research community. Both stay-at-home and social distancing restrictions posed challenges to our personal and professional lives. The Association for Academic Surgery held its inaugural webinar-based panel discussion titled Association for Academic Surgery Town Hall with its topic on how to optimize research during a pandemic. This article summarizes the highlights from that discussion and lessons learned from the academic surgery research community in 2020.
Studies on the extracellular alkaline phosphatase of Micrococcus sodonensis. II. Factors affecting secretion.

The secretion of alkaline phosphatase by Micrococcus sodonensis has been studied by observing the production and accumulation of extracellular enzyme by log phase cells which have been resuspended in fresh growth medium. The accumulation of extracellular alkaline phosphatase activity is the result of a selective permeation process and is totally dependent upon the presence of divalent cation. Although calcium is an actual component of the enzyme and is required for both catalytic activity and enzyme stability, magnesium appears to be the divalent cation required for the actual synthesis or release (or both) of alkaline phosphatase from the cell. Studies with various inhibitors of protein synthesis suggest that the bacterial cell may possess at least two distinct sites of protein synthesis, one site functioning to provide intracellular and cell-associated proteins and another for the synthesis of extracellular proteins. The over-all process of enzyme secretion is markedly temperature-dependent and is characterized by an activation energy of 55 kcal per mole. This observation suggests that the rate-limiting step in alkaline phosphatase secretion is probably not an enzyme-catalyzed event. A relatively small but significant amount of alkaline phosphatase activity exists in a cell-bound form and can be quantitatively released from cells by treatment with lysozyme. Although lysozyme-sensitive cell wall components are involved in the binding of alkaline phosphatase to the cell, the cell wall is not an obligatory component of the secretion process since lysozyme-prepared, sucrose-stabilized protoplasts are capable of extracellular enzyme production.