cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Analogies on Creative Concept Generation: Lessons From an In Vivo Study in Engineering Design

Research on innovation often highlights analogies from sources outside the current problem domain as a major source of novel concepts; however, the mechanisms underlying this relationship are not well understood. We analyzed the temporal interplay between far analogy use and creative concept generation in a professional design team's brainstorming conversations, investigating the hypothesis that far analogies lead directly to very novel concepts via large steps in conceptual spaces (jumps). Surprisingly, we found that concepts were more similar to their preceding concepts after far analogy use compared to baseline situations (i.e., without far analogy use). Yet far analogies increased the team's concept generation rate compared to baseline conditions. Overall, these results challenge the view that far analogies primarily lead to novel concepts via jumps in conceptual spaces and suggest alternative pathways from far analogies to novel concepts (e.g., iterative, deep exploration within a functional space).
Automated classification of landforms on Mars

We propose a numerical method for classification and characterization of landforms on Mars. The method provides an alternative to manual geomorphic mapping of the Martian surface. Digital elevation data is used to calculate several topographic attributes for each pixel in a landscape. Unsupervised classification, based on the self-organizing map technique, divides all pixels into mutually exclusive and exhaustive landform classes on the basis of similarity between attribute vectors. The results are displayed as a thematic map of landforms and statistics of attributes are used to assign semantic meaning to the classes. This method is used to produce a geomorphic map of the Terra Cimmeria region on Mars. We assess the quality of the automated classification and discuss differences between results of automated and manual mappings. Potential applications of our method, including crater counting, landscape feature search, and large scale quantitative comparisons of Martian surface morphology, are identified and evaluated.
Sensitivity of the global climate system to initial conditions

It is widely known that the concentration of greenhouse gases, particularly CO2, has increased steadily over the past quarter-century. Despite the fact that the radiative properties of such gases are rather well-understood, a clear consensus has yet to emerge among scientists as to the overall direction that global climate is evolving toward. Over the past decade, our understanding of the global climate system has advanced considerably with the development and application of increasingly sophisticated general circulation models (GCMs). In these models the dynamics, thermodynamics, radiative processes, and chemistry of the global climate system are represented to the maximum extent possible, given limitations in our understanding and computational capability.
Athletic Training Student Socialization Part II: Socializing the Professional Master's Athletic Training Student

Context: Professional socialization is a key process in the professional development of athletic training students. Literature has focused on many perspectives regarding socialization and has prima...
Ecological tannin assays : Evaluation of proanthocyanidins, protein binding assays and protein precipitating potential.

Estimations of condensed tannin content are generally based on calibration standard curves from Quebracho condensed tannins. We generated calibration standard curves from eight Sonoran Desert species for comparison with estimates of tannin concentrations derived from the Quebracho standard curve. Estimates of leaf tannin concentrations of each of the eight species using each species standard curve differed significantly with the estimates given by the Quebracho standard curve. Standard curves constructed from tannins from different individuals of three of the species varied significantly between, but not within, species. The efficiency of precipitation of protein bovine serum albumin (BSA) by each different tannin varied up to a factor of fifty for tannins of different species. Ordering species from highest to lowest based on tannin concentrations or binding efficiencies gave two different ranks. We argue that concentration or efficiency alone do not describe adequately tannin ecological activity. Instead, we suggest combining tannin concentrations and binding efficiencies to measure the protein precipitating potential of a leaf. Leaf protein precipitating potential is a more ecologically realistic parameter, we feel, for between-species comparisons than tannin content or binding efficiencies alone.
The relationship of classroom-focused information and self-perceived effectiveness to job satisfaction among child care workers

This study investigated the relation of classroom-focused information and self-perceived effectiveness to job satisfaction among child care workers. Questionnaire data from 399 child care center workers indicated that classroom-focused information provided directly or indirectly by the center director and self-assessments of job effectiveness were significant predictors of job satisfaction. Specifically, 40% of the variance in job satisfaction was explained by the following four variables: helpfulness of center director in providing classroom-focused information; helpfulness of staff meetings in providing classroom-focused information; self-assessment of overall effectiveness; and the perceived importance of the center director as a source for evaluating one's effectiveness. Self-assessment of overall effectiveness was not related to any of the information variables. Implications of the research for practices regarding the provision of supervisor information and support are discussed.
Secure Transmission and Retrieval of Images in Conjunction with Steganography Using Chaos in Nonlinear Acousto-Optic Feedback

Digital images are encrypted onto a chaotic carrier in a Bragg cell under hybrid nonlinear feedback and secure data is embedded into the system via steganography. System robustness (with and without channel noise) is analyzed vis-a-vis information security.
PULMONARY HYPERTENSION AND CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE: INVASIVE HEMODYNAMIC ETIOLOGY AND OUTCOMES IN A LARGE ELECTRONIC MEDICAL RECORD-BASED COHORT

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is common in chronic kidney disease (CKD), but the hemodynamic etiology (precapillary vs. post capillary) and outcomes across CKD stages have not been well characterized. We extracted clinical and hemodynamic data from our de-identified electronic medical record in all
Anovaginal and Rectovaginal Fistula

Rectovaginal fistulas (RVFs) or anovaginal fistulas (AVFs) are disabling and difficult conditions to treat. There is an array of various surgical techniques available for repair ranging from local repair, muscle flaps, and transabdominal approaches to resections. The success and complications vary based on the procedure utilized. The aim of this chapter is to review the anatomy and pathology of RVFs and AVFs and to review the past and current surgical techniques.
Experimental and numerical investigation of hydrate-guest molecule exchange kinetics

Abstract The 2012 Iġnik Sikumi #1 Field Trial in Alaska was designed to test at field scale a methane hydrate production methodology that involves injecting carbon dioxide (CO2) in situ to exchange with methane (CH4) within a hydrate structure, thus releasing the methane for production. Since the completion of the field trial, experimental and numerical investigations have sought to better understand observations in terms of CH4 production and changes to the hydrate bearing formation. Collectively, these insights may lead to more effective strategies for producing CH4 from naturally occurring hydrates. This study presents results from a laboratory experiment performed at conditions experienced during the field trial (8.27 MPa and 275.15 K) to collect data relating to the CH4 molecular exchange process. The experiment intentionally isolated the kinetic guest molecule exchange process from additional hydrate formation and mechanical changes to the hydrate bearing sand. Data were used to inform development of numerical models that were then used to fit key hydrate parameters (bound water saturation, kinetic formation constant, kinetic exchange constant, and preferential exchange weighting factors) and analyze experimental results. Results were in agreement with observations of preferential CO2/CH4 guest molecule exchange at Iġnik Sikumi #1 and from previous experimental studies while providing quantitative estimates of changing hydrate compositions. Additionally, simulations confirmed hydrate behavior and composition profiles otherwise indirectly evidenced by experimental results.
TCTAP A-007 The Timing of Staged Percutaneous Coronary Intervention for a Non-Culprit Lesion in the Patients with Anterior Wall ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction with Multiple Vessel Disease

The optimal treatment strategy and timing of a staged percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for non-culprit lesions in the patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients with multi-vessel disease (MVD) remains controversial. The best timing of staged PCI and its benefit
INVESTGATION OF ANTI-OXIDATION OF MoSi_2/SiC COATING FOR CARBON-CARBON COMPOSITES

The anti-oxidation coating of MoSi_2/SiC on carbon-carbon composites was prepared by cementation. The relations between coating performance and cementation powder were studied, and the oxidation resistance mechanism was investigated. The result show that the coating is very dense and has few surface crack and has favorable oxidation resistance effect. When Si and SiC was remained a certain proportion, the coating performed the best as the content of cementation of MoSi_2 reaches 50%; when MoSi_2 and SiC was remained a certain proportion ,the coating performed the best as the content of cementation Si reaches 20%.
Study of leukocyte dynamics by means of cross-circulation between normal and leukopenic rats.

(1) Certain aspects of leukocyte dynamics in rats were studied by means of a mechanical cross-circulation technic. (2) Cross-circulation between two normal rats caused little change in the leukocyte counts. (3) When irradiated leukopenic animals were cross-circulated with normals, the leukocyte counts of the normal animals were moderately decreased, while the level of the irradiated animals rose. Prolonged mixing of the circulations, however, failed to bring the counts of the two animals into equilibrium. (4) After cessation of cross-circulation, the leukocyte counts of the normal donors usually rose slowly, while those of the irradiated animals fell progressively with a half-time disappearance of 30-60 minutes. (5) The possible significance of these observations in terms of normal leukocyte mobilization, viability and destruction was discussed.
Photobiological transformation of hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX) using Rhodobacter sphaeroides

Abstract Pump-and-treat strategies for groundwater containing explosives may be necessary when the contaminated water approaches sensitive receptors. This project investigated bacterial photosynthesis as a strategy for ex situ treatment, using light as the primary energy source to facilitate RDX transformation. The objective was to characterize the ability of photosynthetic Rhodobacter sphaeroides (strain ATCC ® 17023 ™) to transform the high-energy explosive RDX. R. sphaeroides transformed 30 μM RDX within 40 h under light conditions; RDX was not fully transformed in the dark (non-photosynthetic conditions), suggesting that photosynthetic electron transfer was the primary mechanism. Experiments with RDX demonstrated that succinate and malate were the most effective electron donors for photosynthesis, but glycerol was also utilized as a photosynthetic electron donor. RDX was transformed irrespective of the presence of carbon dioxide. The electron shuttling compound anthraquinone-2,6-disulfonate (AQDS) increased transformation kinetics in the absence of CO 2 , when the cells had excess NADPH that needed to be re-oxidized because there was limited CO 2 for carbon fixation. When CO 2 was added, the cells generated more biomass, and AQDS had no stimulatory effect. End products indicated that RDX carbon became CO 2 , biomass, and a soluble, uncharacterized aqueous metabolite, determined using 14 C-labeled RDX. These data are the first to suggest that photobiological explosives transformation is possible and will provide a framework for which phototrophy can be used in environmental restoration of explosives contaminated water.
Doing Our Part So Kids Don't Start: An evaluation of a statewide public awareness campaign

This article describes outcomes related to the product and process involved in an evaluation of one component of a statewide public awareness campaign, the Doing Our Part So Kids Don't Start toolkit. The campaign was designed to garner support for and to increase compliance with a recent Minnesota law intended to reduce youth access to tobacco. More than 35,000 toolkits were distributed statewide. The results of the evaluation suggest that the toolkit was successful in reaching and engaging its target audience and should be considered a good strategy for disseminating information to a wide variety of individuals, particularly those new to tobacco control, and for encouraging them to participate in preventing tobacco use among youth. Future American Cancer Society endeavors would benefit from considering the needs of both the program planner and program evaluator before implementing new projects or programs.
Automatic construction of garage maps for future vehicle navigation service

Digital garage maps are the basis for future vehicle navigation services such as smart parking management that displays the availability of parking spaces. It can direct drivers to empty ones, avoiding any searching, circulating in large, complex parking structures. However, such maps are not currently available, making it impossible to deploy smart parking management. Conducting manual survey incurs tremendous amount of human efforts, and cannot scale to large numbers of garages. In this paper, we propose three algorithms, Sequential Merging, Points Clustering and Segments Matching that can automatically construct complete and accurate garage maps using data crowdsensed from drivers. Upon entering and leaving the garage, the driver's smartphone collects inertial data, which are used to generate the vehicle's trajectory. Our algorithms fuse together these trajectories to recreate the size, layout of the garage. We compare the performance of the three algorithms using different garages. We find that Points Clustering is robust to trajectory errors, with F-score above 0.95 for trajectory length error up to 2 meters, Segments Matching can handle partial trajectories with arbitrary start/end locations, and it constructs the same map using trajectories much shorter than those needed by the other two algorithms.
Hospital Readmission after Aortic Valve Replacement: Impact of Preoperative Heart Failure.

Background and aim of the study Large-scale data of heart failure (HF) readmission after aortic valve replacement (AVR) are limited. Methods A total of 40,751 Medicare beneficiaries >65 years who underwent primary isolated AVR between 2000 and 2004 were included in the study. Preoperative HF was defined using ICD-9-CM diagnostic codes from the index admission and any hospitalization during the preceding year. Cumulative readmission incidences over five years were computed for those patients with and without preoperative HF, while adjusting for propensity scores. Results The median patient age was 76 years. At 30 days, all-cause readmission was 21.5% and HF readmission was 3.9%. Patients with preoperative HF had higher postoperative HF readmission rates compared to those without (30 days, 6.3% versus 2.2%; one year, 13.9% versus 4.4%; five years, 6.6% versus 10.3%, p = 0.0001). The incremental risk of HF on readmission was >2 following adjustment. In patients with preoperative HF, the number of admissions was associated with increased postoperative HF readmissions. At 30 days, patients with no preoperative HF admissions had a HF readmission rate of 5.3%, while those with one, two, three and four or more preoperative HF admissions had rates of 8.2%, 11.9%, 13.8% and 17.4%, respectively. This trend persisted over the five-year follow up period. Conclusions Postoperative HF readmission accounted for about one-fifth of all-cause readmissions after AVR in Medicare beneficiaries. Preoperative HF significantly contributed to postoperative readmission, both all-cause and HF-specific, which likely limits the symptomatic benefit of surgery. These data support early aortic valve intervention prior to the development of clinically apparent HF.
A subleading operator basis and matching for gg → H

The Soft Collinear Effective Theory (SCET) is a powerful framework for studying factorization of amplitudes and cross sections in QCD. While factorization at leading power has been well studied, much less is known at subleading powers in the λ ≪ 1 expansion. In SCET subleading soft and collinear corrections to a hard scattering process are described by power suppressed operators, which must be fixed case by case, and by well established power suppressed Lagrangians, which correct the leading power dynamics of soft and collinear radiation. Here we present a complete basis of power suppressed operators for gg → H, classifying all operators which contribute to the cross section at $$ \mathcal{O}\left({\lambda}^2\right) $$ , and showing how helicity selection rules significantly simplify the construction of the operator basis. We perform matching calculations to determine the tree level Wilson coefficients of our operators. These results are useful for studies of power corrections in both resummed and fixed order perturbation theory, and for understanding the factorization properties of gauge theory amplitudes and cross sections at subleading power. As one example, our basis of operators can be used to analytically compute power corrections for N -jettiness subtractions for gg induced color singlet production at the LHC.
OpenMP 4 Fortran Modernization of WSM6 for KNL

Parallel code portability in the petascale era requires modifying existing codes to support new architectures with large core counts and SIMD vector units. OpenMP is a well established and increasingly supported vehicle for portable parallelization. As architectures mature and compiler OpenMP implementations evolve, best practices for code modernization change as well. In this paper, we examine the impact of newer OpenMP features (in particular OMP SIMD) on the Intel Xeon Phi Knights Landing (KNL) architecture, applied in optimizing loops in the single moment 6-class microphysics module (WSM6) in the US Navy's NEPTUNE code. We find that with functioning OMP SIMD constructs, low thread invocation overhead on KNL and reduced penalty for unaligned access compared to previous architectures, one can leverage OpenMP 4 to achieve reasonable scalability with relatively minor reorganization of a production physics code.
Co-expression of an EGFR mutant with ErbB-2 enhanced motility and invasion

4508 Cells are confronted with a variety of extracellular signals, including peptide ligands, amino acids, nucleotides, small organic molecules, and even specific ions. In order for cells to integrate information from multiple distinct signals, it is necessary that there be some mechanism for the signal from one receptor pathway to modify cell responsiveness to a second receptor type. Using human mammary epithelial cells as a model system, we have investigated the ability of multiple distinct receptor subclasses to transactivate the EGFR. We found that G-protein coupled receptors (the LPA receptor and the Calcium-sensing receptor), cytokine receptors (VEGF receptors and GH receptors), the TNF alpha receptor, and the IGF receptor were all capable of transactivating the EGFR as determined by increased phosphorylation of ERK1/2 that was dependent on EGFR kinase activity and on the metalloprotease-mediated release of EGFR ligands. ERK phosphorylation in response to general stressors (sorbitol or anisomycin) was also dependent on EGFR kinase activity. In contrast, Met, the receptor for HGF/scatter factor, acted independently from the EGFR in increasing ERK phosphorylation. The signaling pathways linking each of these receptor classes to ligand shedding are currently under investigation.
Membrane curvature directs the localization of Cdc42p to novel foci required for cell-cell fusion.

Cell fusion is ubiquitous in eukaryotic fertilization and development. The highly conserved Rho–GTPase Cdc42p promotes yeast fusion through interaction with Fus2p, a pheromone-induced amphiphysin-like protein. We show that in prezygotes, Cdc42p forms a novel Fus2p-dependent focus at the center of the zone of cell fusion (ZCF) and remains associated with remnant cell walls after initial fusion. At the ZCF and during fusion, Cdc42p and Fus2p colocalized. In contrast, in shmoos, both proteins were near the cortex but spatially separate. Cdc42p focus formation depends on ZCF membrane curvature: mutant analysis showed that Cdc42p localization is negatively affected by shmoo-like positive ZCF curvature, consistent with the flattening of the ZCF during fusion. BAR-domain proteins such as the fusion proteins Fus2p and Rvs161p are known to recognize membrane curvature. We find that mutations that disrupt binding of the Fus2p/Rvs161p heterodimer to membranes affect Cdc42p ZCF localization. We propose that Fus2p localizes Cdc42p to the flat ZCF to promote cell wall degradation.
Conservative model reduction for finite-volume models

Abstract This work proposes a method for model reduction of finite-volume models that guarantees the resulting reduced-order model is conservative, thereby preserving the structure intrinsic to finite-volume discretizations. The proposed reduced-order models associate with optimization problems characterized by a minimum-residual objective function and nonlinear equality constraints that explicitly enforce conservation over subdomains. Conservative Galerkin projection arises from formulating this optimization problem at the time-continuous level, while conservative least-squares Petrov–Galerkin (LSPG) projection associates with a time-discrete formulation. We equip these approaches with hyper-reduction techniques in the case of nonlinear flux and source terms, and also provide approaches for handling infeasibility. In addition, we perform analyses that include deriving conditions under which conservative Galerkin and conservative LSPG are equivalent, as well as deriving a posteriori error bounds. Numerical experiments performed on a parameterized quasi-1D Euler equation demonstrate the ability of the proposed method to ensure not only global conservation, but also significantly lower state-space errors than nonconservative reduced-order models such as standard Galerkin and LSPG projection.
Metformin-Loaded Hyaluronic Acid Nanostructure for Oral Delivery

The objective of this study was to develop a nanodelivery system containing a mucoadhesive polymer hyaluronic acid (HA) for oral delivery. Metformin was used as a model drug. Blank and drug-loaded HA nanostructures were prepared by precipitation method and characterized for particle size (PS), zeta potential (ZP), physical stability (over 65 days), surface morphology, moisture content, and physical state of the drug in the nanostructures. The cytotoxicity and hemolysis potential of the delivery system was assessed in Caco-2 cells and whole human blood, respectively. The in vitro release of metformin and its uptake in Caco-2 cells was evaluated using high-performance liquid chromatography. Ex vivo permeability of metformin was measured through goat intestinal membrane. The nanoparticles were physically stable and neutrally charged with an average PS of 114.53 ± 12.01 nm. This nanodelivery system existed as nanofibers containing metformin in a crystalline state. This delivery system released the drug rapidly with > 50% of metformin released within 1 h. Cellular uptake studies on Caco-2 cells indicated higher uptake of metformin from nanoparticle as compared to metformin in solution, up to first 45 min. Ex vivo permeability studies on the other hand showed a higher metformin permeability from solution relative to that from nanoparticles through the goat intestinal membrane. Metformin nanoparticles were non-toxic at therapeutic concentrations in Caco-2 cells and showed no hemolytic effect to RBCs. This study indicates the preparation, characterization, as well as the potential use of HA nanostructures for oral delivery.
Performance of an emerging MB filter

A method for solving the multi-target tracking (MTT) problem in urban environments is presented. The difficulties specific to urban environments include changing target cardinality, high target density, and targets that present different types of motion. The solution presented involves the use of the Multi-Object Particle Multi-Bernoulli (MOP-MB) filter, a computationally efficient approximation of the Bayes' Multi-Object Filter. This filter is then extended to employ the use of multiple motion models that combine to provide a better estimate of target state and cardinality. The new filter, called the Interacting Multiple Model Multi-Object Particle Multi-Bernoulli (IMM-MOP-MB), uses the multi-object particles (MOPs) to additionally estimate the target's motion mode. We then compare the performance of these MB filters with an IMMJPDAF with track management software in terms of cardinality tracking and position estimates. This is done through the use of the Generalized Optimal Sub-Pattern Assignment (GOSPA) metric and we find that the IMM-MOP-MB performs best in all test scenarios.
Challenges in the Fabrication of Ceramic Technetium Waste Forms

In this research we can demonstrate, that fission technetium-99 can be successfully immobilized as tetravalent cation in solid state refractory oxides such as pyrochlores and perovskites. Pyrochlores show excellent performance in ASTM C1220-10 type corrosion testing and have the ability to structurally bond Tc-99 and therefore avoid the formation of highly-mobile, pertechnetate species under conditions of a generic repository. We have fabricated lanthanide technetium oxides using either dry-chemical ceramic processing, or wet-chemical coprecipitation methods. Tc pyrochlores have shown better Tc retention and corrosion resistance compared with Tc-containing LAWE4-type borosilicate glass, combined with 50-times higher waste loading. However, mechanical properties (fracture toughness, compressive strength) of the pyrochlores are lacking and the microstructure shows high open porosity of about 50 %. To improve these properties we tested a variety of measures such as hot-pressing or the combination of hot pressing and high-temperature synthesis, but the improvement was minor and Tc and the surrogate Ru were partly reduced. The presence of metallic inclusions has strong impact on Tc retention and release rates increased more than tenfold. We have further developed a wet-chemical coprecipitation synthesis route followed by calcination and a 4-days high-temperature sintering cycle for the model composition Sm2(Ru0.5Ti0.5)2O7 where titanium oxide was added as sintering agent. The ceramic surrogate waste forms showed improved theoretical densities of about 73 % combined with sufficient mechanical strength, while maintaining ruthenium in the tetravalent state.
Assessing puberty in ex situ male cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus) via fecal hormone metabolites and body weights.

Abstract Cheetahs are one of the most heavily studied felid species, with numerous publications on health, disease, and reproductive physiology produced over the last 30 years. Despite this relatively long history of research, there is a paucity of crucial biological data, such as pubertal onset, which has direct and significant applications to improved management of ex situ cheetah populations. This study aimed to determine age of pubertal onset in ex situ male cheetahs using non-invasive fecal steroid hormone monitoring and body weights. Fecal samples from 12 male cheetahs from four institutions were collected 2–3 times weekly from 1 to 42 months of age. Fecal androgen and glucocorticoid metabolites were analyzed using enzyme immunoassays previously validated for use with cheetah feces. Animal body weights were recorded monthly. Fecal hormone and body weight data were analyzed using generalized linear mixed models. Androgen concentrations exhibited an increase to levels similar to those observed in adult males by 18–24 months of age, and males attained adult body weights by 21 months of age. Based on these weight data and the initial increase in androgens toward adult concentrations, males were considered pubertal from 18 to 24 months of age. Glucocorticoid concentrations and amplitude of concentration over baseline were also increased during this period. Knowledge about the physiological changes associated with puberty is useful for management and improving reproductive success of cheetah populations under human care, particularly for determining timing of litter separation from dam, littermate dispersal and when to introduce potential breeding pairs.
Black race and distant recurrence after neoadjuvant or adjuvant chemotherapy in breast cancer

Black race compared to white race is associated with more advanced stage and biologically aggressive breast cancer. Consequently, black patients are more frequently treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) than white patients. However, it is unclear how distant recurrence-free survival (DRFS) of black patients treated with NAC, compares to DRFS of black patients treated with adjuvant chemotherapy (AC). We evaluated the association between race, distant recurrence, and type of chemotherapy (AC or NAC) in localized or locally advanced breast cancer. We evaluated DRFS in 807 patients, including 473 black, 252 white, 56 Hispanic, and 26 women of other or mixed race. The association between AC or NAC and DRFS was examined using multivariate Cox proportional hazard models that included race, age, stage, estrogen receptor (ER) and triple negative (TN) status. When the black and white subjects were pooled for the analysis the features associated with worse DRFS included stage III disease and age < 50 years, but not ER-negative disease, TN disease, the use of NAC, or black race. However, in the analysis stratified by race NAC was associated with worse DRFS compared to AC in black (HR 2.70; 95% CI 1.73–4.22; p < 0.0001), but not in white women (HR 1.29, 95% CI 0.56–2.95; p = 0.36). Black patients treated with NAC had worse DRFS than black patients treated with AC, or white patients treated with either NAC or AC. These findings need to be validated in a large-scale observational study and the effect of NAC on the breast cancer microenvironment in black women needs to be further evaluated.
Methylene Blue Monotherapy Compared With Combination Therapy With Hydroxocobalamin for the Treatment of Refractory Vasoplegic Syndrome: ARetrospective Cohort Study.

Objective To compare the efficacy of methylene blue with combination therapy with hydroxocobalamin in patients experiencing vasoplegic syndrome after cardiac surgery. Design Retrospective cohort study. Setting Tertiary medical center. Participants Patients who received methylene blue with or without hydroxocobalamin for refractory vasoplegic syndrome rescue therapy. Measurements and Main Results The primary outcome was 0.the ability to maintain mean arterial pressure (MAP) >60 mmHg beyond 1hour after study drug administration. Other pertinent outcomes included MAP at hours 6, 12, and 24 post-administration; both raw and proportional changes of vasopressor doses from baseline at hours 1, 6, 12, and 24 post-administration; and change in pulmonary artery catheter hemodynamics. Overall, 28 doses were administered in 14 patients in the monotherapy group and 17 doses (10 methylene blue, 7 hydroxocobalamin) were administered in 6 patients in the combination therapy group. There were no differences in ability to maintain MAP at 1hour, with 71% of the monotherapy and 82% of combination therapy patients meeting MAP goals (p = 0.49). Pairwise comparisons demonstrated vasopressor reductions at 6, 12, and 24hours in both groups, but only significant reductions at 1hour were observed in the combination therapy group (–0.06 µg/kg/min; p = 0.003) but not in the monotherapy group (–0.015 µg/kg/min; p = 0.14). Conclusion This is the first study to compare methylene blue monotherapy with combination therapy, which suggests there may be an advantage to combination therapy. Further characterization of ideal dosing, timing, and agent selection should be investigated on a larger scale format.
Circadian disruption and divergent microbiota acquisition under extended photoperiod regimens in chicken

The gut microbiota is crucial for metabolic homeostasis, immunity, growth and overall health, and it is recognized that early-life microbiota acquisition is a pivotal event for later-life health. Recent studies show that gut microbiota diversity and functional activity are synchronized with the host circadian rhythms in healthy individuals, and circadian disruption elicits dysbiosis in mammalian models. However, no studies have determined the associations between circadian disruption in early life, microbiota colonization, and the consequences for microbiota structure in birds. Chickens, as a major source of protein around the world, are one of the most important agricultural species, and their gut and metabolic health are significant concerns. The poultry industry routinely employs extended photoperiods (>18 h light) as a management tool, and their impacts on the chicken circadian, its role in gut microbiota acquisition in early life (first 3 weeks of life), and consequences for later life microbiota structure remain unknown. In this study, the objectives were to (a) characterize circadian activity under two different light regimes in layer chicken (12/12 h' Light/Dark (LD) and 23/1 h LD), (b) characterize gut microbiota acquisition and composition in the first 4 weeks of life, (c) determine if gut microbiota oscillate in synchrony with the host circadian rhythm, and (d) to determine if fecal microbiota is representative of cecal microbiota in early life. Expression of clock genes (clock, bmal1, and per2) was assayed, and fecal and cecal microbiotas were characterized using 16S rRNA gene amplicon analyses from birds raised under two photoperiod treatments. Chickens raised under 12/12 LD photoperiods exhibited rhythmic clock gene activity, which was absent in birds raised under the extended (23/1 LD) photoperiod. There was differential microbiota acquisition under different photoperiod regimes in newly hatched chicks. Gut microbiota members showed a similar oscillating pattern as the host, but this association was not as strong as found in mammals. Finally, the fecal microbiota was found to be not representative of cecal microbiota membership and structure in young birds. This is one of the first studies to demonstrate the use of photoperiods to modulate microbiota acquisition in newly hatched chicks, and show their potential as a tool to promote the colonization of beneficial microorganisms.
A new technique for olecranon osteotomy in the treatment of distal humeral fractures

Background Olecranon osteotomy is a commonly used method for obtaining adequate exposure of the articular surface in complex distal humeral fractures. We describe a new technique whereby a precontoured olecranon plate is first fixed to the olecranon, and a Gigli saw is used to perform the osteotomy while the plate is in place. Methods By use of a standard posterior approach, a precontoured olecranon plate is applied to the olecranon and affixed with screws both proximally and distally to the planned osteotomy site. A Gigli saw is passed anterior to the olecranon and is used to create an osteotomy through the bare area of the sigmoid notch. The plate is removed from the distal fragment. The proximal olecranon fragment, plate, and extensor mechanism are retracted proximally en bloc to expose the articular surface. After fracture repair, the osteotomy fragments are reapproximated, and the plate is reattached to the distal fragment. QuickDASH (short version of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire) and Veterans RAND 12-Item Health Survey (VR-12) scores for patients treated with this technique were compared with those of patients treated with the standard chevron osteotomy method. Results All patients achieved radiographic and clinical union of the osteotomy site. QuickDASH, VR-12 physical, and VR-12 mental scores were not significantly different from those of patients in the chevron osteotomy group ( P = .93, P = .79, and P = .68, respectively; t test). Conclusion The described method provides excellent visualization of the joint, is less technically challenging than the standard chevron osteotomy, and reduces operative time. Osteotomy union was attained in all 5 cases, with functional outcomes comparable with those attained with the chevron technique.
Implementing and Validating Air Passenger–Centric Metrics Using Mobile Phone Data

Cell phone data can be used to implement new methods for analyzing domestic air passengers’ behavior in order to have an original description of the state of the air transportation system. By lever...
Long-Acting Injectable Antiretroviral Treatment Acceptability and Preferences: A Qualitative Study Among US Providers, Adults Living with HIV, and Parents of Youth Living with HIV

To better understand acceptability of long-acting injectable antiretroviral treatment (LAI-ART) regimens for HIV management, we conducted seven semi-structured focus group discussions with experienced HIV care providers and persons living with HIV (PLWH) and five individual interviews with parents of children living with HIV in the western United States. Although providers were wary about a potential negative impact on consistent engagement in care, they predicted that patients, especially those with adherence challenges, would be enthusiastic about LAI options. Many PLWH, especially young adults, welcomed the option of an LAI-ART regimen; however, others feared injections and expressed concerns about possible side effects, dosing more frequent than every 2 weeks, additional costs, and lower efficacy. Parents' interest varied according to their child's age and sensitivity to injections. In summary, potential users considered LAI-ART generally acceptable yet voiced possible concerns as well, especially if their current pill-based regimen was effective in achieving viral suppression.
Predictors of active cancer thromboembolic outcomes: mortality associated with calf deep vein thrombosis.

BACKGROUND Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a leading cause of mortality in patients with cancer. Outcomes, including mortality data, in the cancer population are limited in those with calf deep vein thrombosis (CDVT) compared to individuals with proximal deep vein thrombosis. The aim of this study was to assess the prognosis among patients with active cancer and CDVT. METHODS Single institution inception cohort of cancer-associated CDVT patients who presented with thrombosis distal to popliteal level confirmed objectively by ultrasound. We defined active cancer as metastatic disease or use of chemotherapy at diagnosis. Clinical and laboratory data were extracted from the electronic health records. The Khorana Risk Score (KRS) was extracted based on data at entry. Institutional review board approval was obtained prior to the analysis. Categorical variables are expressed as percentages and continuous variables as median (interquartile range). Kaplan-Meier method, Pearson's χ2, Mann-Whitney U and Cox proportional hazard were applied. SPSS software version 22 was used for all statistics. RESULTS One hundred nine patients (men=44 [40%], Age>65=89 [82%], BMI>30=25 [23%], Smoker=59 [54%]) were included. The majority had a low (30%) or intermediate KRS (64%) at diagnosis. Forty-seven percent died during a median follow-up time of 2.5 years (0.5-3.1). After multivariate analysis, the predictors of mortality were: smoking (hazard ratio [HR] 2.3; 95% CI: 1.2-4.7), metastasis (HR=5.8; 95% CI: 2.9-11.7), gastrointestinal cancer (HR=3.9; 95% CI: 1.8-8.5), and lung cancer (HR=4.1 95% CI: 1.7-10.3). VTE specific variables not associated with mortality included: bilateral CDVT, concomitant pulmonary embolism, multiple vein involvement, filter placement, or a surgery-associated event. The KRS was not predictive of death. CONCLUSIONS Cancer-specific variables and smoking predicted mortality among CDVT patients in this cohort, rather than VTE characteristics at the time of CDVT diagnosis.
A Scenario Optimization Approach to System Identification with Reliability Guarantees

This paper proposes an optimization-based framework for the calibration of parametric models according to multi-variate, input-output data. We focus on continuous models whose outputs depend nonlinearly (and possibly implicitly) on the inputs and the parameters. Maximum likelihood and scenario optimization techniques are combined to generate stochastic predictor models having dependent parameters. Furthermore, the reliability of the predictor, as measured by the probability of future data falling outside the predicted output ranges, is formally bounded using non-convex scenario theory. This framework is illustrated by calibrating a linear time invariant model of a system having a non-colocated sensor-actuator pair according to modal analysis data.
Platinum response characteristics of patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and a germline BRCA1, BRCA2 or PALB2 mutation.

Retrospective studies suggest a survival benefit when platinum-based chemotherapy is administered to patients with pancreatic cancer harbouring a germline mutation in BRCA1, BRCA2 or PALB2 (mut-positive PDAC). However, the objective response rate (ORR) and real-world progression free survival (rwPFS) achieved with such treatment remain ill-defined. Twenty-six patients with advanced-stage mut-positive PDAC who had been treated with platinum-based therapy were matched by age, race and sex to 52 platinum-treated control PDAC patients. Responses to therapy were determined by RECIST v1.1, performed by blinded radiology review. Measured outcomes included ORR and rwPFS. The ORR in mut-positive patients was 58% compared to 21% in the control group (p = 0.0022). There was no significant difference in ORR between platinum regimens in mut-positive patients (p = 0.814), whereas in control patients, the only observed responses were to FOLFIRINOX. rwPFS was 10.1 mo. for mut-positive patients and 6.9 mo. for controls (HR 0.43; 95% CI 0.25–0.74; 0.0068). Mut-positive PDAC has a high ORR and prolonged rwPFS to platinum-based chemotherapy. These findings may have implications particularly in the neoadjuvant setting, and for future clinical trial design, and highlight the importance of early germline testing in patients with PDAC.
Periovulatory and Interleukin-1β-Dependent Up-Regulation of Intraovarian Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) in the Rat: Potential Role for VEGF in the Promotion of Periovulatory Angiogenesis and Vascular Permeability:

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is an endothelial cell mitogen and permeability factor the role of which in ovarian angiogenesis has been the subject of increasing interest. It was the objective of this communication to explore the possibility that interleukin (IL)-1 may regulate the in vitro expression of rat ovarian VEGF mRNA, as well as to study the in vivo expression of rat ovarian VEGF transcripts during follicular maturation, ovulation, and corpora lutea formation. Taken together, our findings 1) reaffirm the rat ovary as a site of VEGF expression; 2) document an in vivo increase in VEGF transcripts before ovulation; 3) disclose a marked dependence of VEGF on IL-1β; 4) reveal the IL-1β effect to be receptor mediated and dose and time dependent and to be shared by at least two growth factors—epidermal growth factor and basic fibroblastic growth factor; and 5) demonstrate a lack of VEGF effect on ovarian progesterone biosynthesis as assessed in cultured isolated granulosa cells. It is tempting to speculate that the up-regulatory effect of IL-1β on VEGF transcripts may be relevant to the marked angiogenesis and increased vascular premeability displayed by the hyperemic ovarian Graafian follicle during the terminal stages of follicular development. In this context, VEGF may be joined by other IL-1-dependent angiogenesis promoters such as IL-6 or transforming growth factor β1. Thus, IL-1-mediated VEGF induction may constitute one of several end points through which IL-1 may coordinate and perhaps amplify the ovulatory cascade.
Effect of Loss of Load Probability Distribution on Operating Reserve Demand Curve Performance in Energy-Only Electricity Market

In energy-only electricity markets, the operational reserve demand curve is a scarcity pricing mechanism adopted to address the shortage of reserves and incentivize the generators. It is constructed based on the assumption of the normality of loss of load probability, which is estimated from reserve error data. In this Letter, the historical record of reserve error is collected and analyzed to test the assumption and find the fittest probability distribution. It is found that the normal distribution is generally not as good as other distributions like log-logistic, general gamma, and Weibull. Using a dynamic simulation framework, the installed reserve margins with different distributions are evaluated over a fifty-year period, demonstrating that the choice of distribution could significantly impact the subsequent pricing calculations and therefore the reserve margin in an energy-only electricity market. This work is of potential importance and immediate relevance to system reliability and resource adequacy in power systems.
The Algorithmic University: On-Line Education, Learning Management Systems, and the Struggle over Academic Labor:

The use of on-line education (OLE) to deliver higher education using learning management systems (LMS) has received growing critical attention for its reliance on precarious faculty, high dropout a...
Hardware Design and Thermal Management of Video Accelerator Cards in IOT Applications

This paper demonstrates the hardware design and thermal solution of video accelerator cards in the M.2 and mini PCI express (mPCIe) form factor. The video accelerator cards have video processing units (VPU) which act as extra graphics engine in addition to the processor in a system. It is the first in industry that video accelerator card can be designed in such small form factor without compromising performance. As the accelerator cards are small, the board design can be of high challenge to ensure essential components and layout routing are done correctly to comply with design rules. In addition, high power density on the accelerator cards requires good thermal design and power management to ensure the temperature on the VPU does not exceed specification during intended operation. The performance improvement on a host system equipped with the accelerator cards will also be shown to prove the business acumen.