cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Room temperature CW defect cavity photonic crystal membrane lasers metal bonded to substrate

Recent work has clearly demonstrated that bonding a photonic crystal (PhC) membrane on to a low-index substrate such as sapphire is a viable means to make lasers that operate continuous wave (CW) at room temperature [1–2]. Though the substrate (which has a refractive index larger than that of air) reduces the quality (Q) factor, as compared to a suspended membrane, it also greatly increases the thermal conductivity, thereby reducing the temperature of the active medium [1–2]. Many different bonding techniques have been used, including direct semiconductor-to-dielectric bonding [1–3], BCB bonding [4], and Au/In bonding [5]. We demonstrate a simple metal-metal Van-der-Waals bonding method [6] to bond an InGaAsP membrane active layer to a carrier substrate to produce a CW, room temperature, photo-pumped PhC laser. While previous reports have demonstrated graphite band-edge PhC lasers with a metal backing [4–5], here we report on defect cavity PhC lasers with a buried metal layer.
Why Has the Relationship between Indian and Pacific Ocean Decadal Variability Changed in Recent Decades

AbstractBoth the Indian and Pacific Oceans exhibit prominent decadal time scale variations in sea surface temperature (SST), linked dynamically via atmospheric and oceanic processes. However, the relationship between SST in these two basins underwent a dramatic transformation beginning around 1985. Prior to that, SST variations associated with the Indian Ocean basin mode (IOB) and the interdecadal Pacific oscillation (IPO) were positively correlated, whereas afterward they were much less clearly synchronized. Evidence is presented from both observations and coupled state-of-the-art climate models that enhanced external forcing, particularly from increased anthropogenic greenhouse gases, was the principal cause of this changed relationship. Using coupled climate model experiments, it is shown that without external forcing, the evolution of the IOB would be strongly forced by variations in the IPO. However, with strong external forcing, the dynamical linkage between the IOB and the IPO weakens so that the n...
Mapping ideological opinions in China using online survey

ABSTRACTThis article studies the correlation between ideological opinions and economic development in China at the city and provincial levels, using online survey data with IP information. We assume that more economically developed regions in the southeast are more liberal, as predicted by the modernization theory. We map the ideological opinions reflected by Chinese Political Compass. We find that (1) at the city level, economic development does not necessarily lead to liberal ideology as shown by the spatial autocorrelation; (2) at the provincial level, there is a significant positive correlation between the net export value and liberal ideology. Other development indicators (e.g. income per capita and number of educational institutions) are not statistically relevant.
The CFTR trafficking mutation F508del inhibits the constitutive activity of SLC26A9

Several members of the SLC26A family of anion transporters associate with CFTR, forming complexes in which CFTR and SLC26A functions are reciprocally regulated. These associations are thought to be...
Effects of Ac-Sdkp, a Natural Inhibitor of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Proliferation, on Cardiac Collagen Deposition in Rats with Myocardial Infarction

P56 N-acetyl-seryl-aspartyl-lysyl-proline (Ac-SDKP) is a potent natural inhibitor of hematopoietic stem cell proliferation. Recently, it has been shown to inhibit collagen production by cardiac fibroblasts in vitro and collagen content in the left ventricle (LV) of 2K1C hypertensive rats in vivo . We hypothesized that Ac-SDKP may decrease myocardial collagen deposition in rats with myocardial infarction (MI), thereby reducing interstitial fibrosis and improving cardiac function. Lewis inbred rats were subjected to MI by ligating the left anterior descending coronary artery. Either vehicle or Ac-SDKP (400 mg/kg/day, i.p. by osmotic mini-pump) was given 2 months after MI and continued for another 2 months. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) was measured once a month by tail cuff. LV diastolic dimension (LVDd), mass, ejection fraction (EF) and cardiac output (CO) were measured monthly by echocardiography. At the end of the experiment, mean blood pressure (MBP), LV end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP) and dP/dt were determined. Collagen content in the non-infarcted area of the LV was measured by hydroxyproline assay. We found that Ac-SDKP had no effect on most hemodynamic and cardiac functional parameters. However, it significantly decreased collagen content from 26.1 ±2.2 (vehicle) to 14.7 ±4.8 mg/mg dry weight (Ac-SDKP); P
Fecundity, Fertility and Longevity Reductions in Adult Oriental Fruit Moth (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) Exposed to Surfaces Treated with the Ecdysteroid Agonists Tebufenozide and Methoxyfenozide

The effects on the fecundity, fertility and longevity of oriental fruit moth, Grapholita molesta (Busck), were examined in a 2-part study that exposed adults to surfaces treated with the ecdysone agonists tebufenozide and methoxyfenozide. The first experiment revealed that when recently-emerged moths were exposed to tebufenozide- or methoxyfenozide-treated surfaces continuously throughout their lives (including mating and oviposition), mean fecundity was significantly reduced. In addition, continuous exposure to methoxyfenozide-treated surfaces significantly reduced female longevity. Exposure to surfaces treated only with a surfactant (Latron B-1956®) used in field applications of tebufenozide and methoxyfenozide also significantly impaired the mean fecundity and percent fertility of the oriental fruit moth. The second part of the study showed that when recently-emerged unmated moths were exposed to treated surfaces for 24 h, then paired with a nontreated partner of the opposite sex to mate and oviposit o...
Laboratory Evaluation of a Novel Lethal Ovitrap for Control of Aedes aegypti

Aedes aegypti (L.) (Diptera: Culicidae) are known to flourish in a variety of natural and residential habitats and are competent vectors of at least 22 different arboviruses, including dengue, chikungunya, and Zika. Their global distribution, anthropophilic nature, and vector competency make them species of interest for control. A novel durable dual-action lethal ovitrap (DDALO) with combined larviciding and adulticiding effects, as well as a slow-release polymer (isobutyl methacrylate), was designed to target Ae. aegypti. The use of the DDALO resulted in high adult mosquito mortality (~95-100%) in no-choice laboratory cage studies targeting gravid females and successfully prevented all deposited eggs from hatching. Aging of the traps caused some loss in activity over time, but they still caused adult mortality (~50%) and continued to prevent successful hatching of eggs for 6 mo. Oviposition preference studies resulted in ~4.5 times as many larvae developing in untreated DDALOs compared with the other containers combined. Small-cage multigenerational studies resulted in significantly lower populations of adult mosquitoes in cages containing treated DDALOs after 4 wk. Successful laboratory studies show that the DDALO appears to be a promising tool that could be used for controlling wild vector populations of Ae. aegypti in combination with other mosquito control practices.
The Metastatic Prostate Cancer project (MPCproject): Translational genomics through direct patient engagement.

279Background: While there has been substantial advancement in the genomic understanding of metastatic prostate cancer (MPC), there is still much to be discovered. Additional progress is dependent upon obtaining a large amount of clinically-annotated genomic data. Therefore, we piloted a direct-to-patient nationwide research initiative where patients can contribute their medical records and biospecimens to accelerate research (mpcproject.org). Methods: In collaboration with patients and advocacy groups, we have developed a website (mpcproject.org). Participants are asked to complete a 17-question survey about their experiences with prostate cancer and an electronic informed consent. All participants receive a saliva kit for germline DNA and blood kit for circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA). Additionally, medical records are collected and archived tissue samples are requested if available. Ultra low pass whole genome sequencing (ULP-WGS) and whole exome sequencing (WES) are performed on the whole blood samples. ...
Venous Intracranial Interventions

Intracranial venous intervention is an evolving area of endovascular surgical neuroradiology with combined diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Since Higgins et al. first reported the venous sinus stenting in 2002, there have been only a few prospective and retrospective trials published in the literature. Over the past decade, there has been a rapid increase in the diagnostic and interventional procedures of the intracranial venous system, providing better understanding of the pathophysiology and effective alternate therapeutic options for challenging pathology such as refractory idiopathic intracranial hypertension and intractable pulsatile tinnitus. The anatomic and physiological roles of intravascular ultrasound and venous manometry, respectively, have significantly improved our understanding in the challenging diagnosis of venous sinus stenosis.
Population structure, genetic diversity and downy mildew resistance among Ocimum species germplasm

The basil (Ocimum spp.) genus maintains a rich diversity of phenotypes and aromatic volatiles through natural and artificial outcrossing. Characterization of population structure and genetic diversity among a representative sample of this genus is severely lacking. Absence of such information has slowed breeding efforts and the development of sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) with resistance to the worldwide downy mildew epidemic, caused by the obligate oomycete Peronospora belbahrii. In an effort to improve classification of relationships 20 EST-SSR markers with species-level transferability were developed and used to resolve relationships among a diverse panel of 180 Ocimum spp. accessions with varying response to downy mildew. Results obtained from nested Bayesian model-based clustering, analysis of molecular variance and unweighted pair group method using arithmetic average (UPGMA) analyses were synergized to provide an updated phylogeny of the Ocimum genus. Three (major) and seven (sub) population (cluster) models were identified and well-supported (P < 0.001) by PhiPT (ΦPT) values of 0.433 and 0.344, respectively. Allelic frequency among clusters supported previously developed hypotheses of allopolyploid genome structure. Evidence of cryptic population structure was demonstrated for the k1 O. basilicum cluster suggesting prevalence of gene flow. UPGMA analysis provided best resolution for the 36-accession, DM resistant k3 cluster with consistently strong bootstrap support. Although the k3 cluster is a rich source of DM resistance introgression of resistance into the commercially important k1 accessions is impeded by reproductive barriers as demonstrated by multiple sterile F1 hybrids. The k2 cluster located between k1 and k3, represents a source of transferrable tolerance evidenced by fertile backcross progeny. The 90-accession k1 cluster was largely susceptible to downy mildew with accession ‘MRI’ representing the only source of DM resistance. High levels of genetic diversity support the observed phenotypic diversity among Ocimum spp. accessions. EST-SSRs provided a robust evaluation of molecular diversity and can be used for additional studies to increase resolution of genetic relationships in the Ocimum genus. Elucidation of population structure and genetic relationships among Ocimum spp. germplasm provide the foundation for improved DM resistance breeding strategies and more rapid response to future disease outbreaks.
CENTRAL PRECOCIOUS PUBERTY: An Overview of Diagnosis, Treatment, and Outcome

This article presents the author's perspective on the diagnosis of central precocious puberty (CPP) and its treatment with gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogues. Recent publications are reviewed that relate to the evaluation at diagnosis; the age at onset of normal puberty (initial pubertal changes versus significant progression of puberty); the indications, goals, and management of treatment using GnRH analogues; and post-treatment observations after such therapy.
Reformulating action language C+ in answer set programming

Action language $\mathcal{C}$ + is a high level notation of nonmonotonic causal logic for describing properties of actions. The definite fragment of $\mathcal{C}$ + is implemented in Version 2 of the Causal Calculator (CCalc) based on the reduction of nonmonotonic causal logic to propositional logic. On the other hand, here we present two reformulations of the definite fragment of $\mathcal{C}$ + in terms of different versions of the stable model semantics. The first reformulation is in terms of the recently proposed stable model semantics of formulas with intensional functions, and can be encoded in the input language of CSP solvers. The second reformulation is in terms of the stable model semantics of propositional logic programs, which can be encoded in the input language of ASP systems. The second one is obtained from the first one by eliminating intensional functions in favor of intensional predicates.
Just a Little Respect: Differences in Job Satisfaction Among Individuals With and Without Disabilities*

Objective While scholars have documented high unemployment rates of individuals with disabilities, few studies address how workers with disabilities feel about their jobs. This study uses nationally representative data to explore the relationship between disability and job satisfaction; and examines how differences in job satisfaction between workers with and without disabilities may reflect educational attainment and perceived workplace respect. Methods Data come from the 2006 U.S. General Social Survey (N = 1,613). I estimated a series of ordinal logit regression models, controlling for gender, age, and race. Results Controlling for demographic and workplace characteristics, workers with disabilities had 49 percent lower odds of reporting high job satisfaction than their nondisabled counterparts. Differences in workplace respect accounted for 38 percent of this difference. Conclusion Given these results, one policy recommendation would be to implement disability awareness training for all employees, which may increase the amount of respect experienced by disabled workers.
Control of nonlinear systems represented in quasilinear form

Methods to synthesize controllers for nonlinear systems are developed by exploiting the fact that under mild differentiability conditions, systems of the form: x-dot = f(x) + G(x)u can be represented in quasilinear form, viz: x-dot = A(x)x + B(x)u. Two classes of control methods are investigated. The first is zero-look-ahead control, where the control input depends only on the current values of A(x) and B(x). For this case the control input is computed by continuously solving a matrix Riccati equation as the system progresses along a trajectory. The second is controllers with look-ahead, where the control input depends on the future behavior of A(x) and B(x). These controllers use the similarity between quasilinear systems and linear time varying systems to find approximate solutions to optimal control type problems. The methods that are developed are not guaranteed to be globally stable. However in simulation studies they were found to be useful alternatives for synthesizing control laws for a general class of nonlinear systems.
Somatostatin receptor targeting with hydrophilic [99mTc/186Re]Tc/Re-tricarbonyl NODAGA and NOTA complexes.

Abstract Introduction The aim of this work was to develop diagnostic (99mTc) and therapeutic (186Re) agents for targeting somatostatin receptor (SSTR)-positive neuroendocrine tumors (NETs). In this regard, we evaluated in vitro complexes of the general formula [M(CO)3(L-sst2-ANT)] (M = 99mTc, 186Re), where L denotes NODAGA or NOTA and sst2-ANT denotes the potent SSTR2 antagonist 4-NO2-Phe-c(DCys-Tyr-DTrp-Lys-Thr-Cys)-DTyr-NH2. Moreover, we assessed the in vivo properties of the 99mTc-complexes in an animal SSTR-tumor model. Methods The [99mTc]/[186Re][Tc/Re(OH2)3(CO)3]+ precursors were utilized to prepare the 99mTc/186Re-complexes, which were identified by HPLC co-injection with their natRe analogues. The tracers were challenged in vitro at 37 °C against cysteine and histidine in phosphate-buffered saline (pH 7.4) and in rat serum. Biodistribution and micro-SPECT/CT imaging studies of the 99mTc-tracers were performed in AR42J tumor-bearing female ICR SCID mice. Results The 99mTc-complexes were prepared in high radiochemical yield (RCY > 90%, by HPLC), with lower RCY (≤30%) obtained for 186Re-complexes. Tracers remained intact in vitro and displayed low non-specific binding (10–25%) to rat serum proteins. Biodistribution of [99mTc]Tc-NODAGA-sst2-ANT revealed low tumor uptake (2.78 ± 0.27 %ID/g) at 1 h, while high tumor uptake (16.70 ± 3.32 %ID/g) was found for [99mTc]Tc-NOTA-sst2-ANT. Moderate to low tumor retention was observed for both tracers after 4 and 24 h. Tumor uptake for [99mTc]Tc-NOTA-sst2-ANT was receptor-mediated, as demonstrated by parallel SSTR blocking studies. Rapid renal clearance was observed for both tracers, and SPECT/CT images clearly delineated the tumors, in agreement with the biodistribution data. Conclusions The [99mTc]Tc-NOTA-sst2-ANT complex demonstrated high tumor uptake and rapid clearance in a SSTR-tumor mouse model, showing potential for further development. Advances in knowledge and implications for patient care Preclinical data support the feasibility of the [99mTc]Tc/[186Re]Re-NOTA/NODAGA labeling strategy for use in the development of theranostic radiopharmaceuticals for translation into the human clinic for targeting of SSTR-expressing NETs.
Clinical outcomes following treatment of Enterobacter species pneumonia with piperacillin/tazobactam compared to cefepime or ertapenem.

Abstract Background Enterobacter spp. are a common cause of nosocomial pneumonia and treatment can be complicated by AmpC resistance. Carbapenems are the treatment of choice; however, alternatives are needed. Cefepime has been shown to be non-inferior to carbapenems. There are limited data to support the use of piperacillin/tazobactam. The objective of this study was to determine if piperacillin/tazobactam is non-inferior to cefepime or ertapenem for Enterobacter pneumonia treatment. Objectives To compare the rate of clinical cure in patients with Enterobacter pneumonia receiving definitive treatment with piperacillin/tazobactam, cefepime, or ertapenem. Secondary outcomes included hospital mortality, infection-related length of stay, duration of mechanical ventilation, recurrent pneumonia, and resistance. Methods Retrospective, single-center study. Results Of 114 patients included, 59 received definitive treatment with piperacillin/tazobactam and 55 received cefepime or ertapenem. There was no difference in the proportion of patients who achieved clinical cure in the piperacillin/tazobactam group compared to the cefepime or ertapenem group (76.3% vs. 87.3%, P = 0.13). Treatment group was not associated with clinical cure when controlling for confounders in multivariable logistic regression (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 0.59, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.15-2.37). The rate of recurrent pneumonia was 11.4% in the piperacillin/tazobactam group and 6.7% in the cefepime or ertapenem group (P = 0.48). Other secondary outcomes did not differ between the groups. Conclusions In this retrospective study of patients with Enterobacter pneumonia, clinical cure with piperacillin/tazobactam was comparable to that with cefepime or ertapenem; however, a prospective trial with a larger population is needed to determine if definitive treatment with piperacillin/tazobactam is non-inferior to definitive treatment with cefepime or ertapenem.
Can Assembly Bias Explain the Lensing Amplitude of the BOSS CMASS Sample in a Planck Cosmology

In this paper, we investigate whether galaxy assembly bias can reconcile the 20-40% disagreement between the observed galaxy projected clustering signal and the galaxy-galaxy lensing signal in the BOSS CMASS galaxy sample reported in Leauthaud et al. (2017). We use the suite of AbacusCosmos Lamda-CDM simulations at Planck best-fit cosmology and two flexible implementations of extended halo occupation distribution (HOD) models that incorporate galaxy assembly bias to build forward models and produce joint fits of the observed galaxy clustering signal and the galaxy-galaxy lensing signal. We find that our models using the standard HODs without any assembly bias generalizations continue to show a 20-40% over-prediction of the observed galaxy-galaxy lensing signal. We find that our implementations of galaxy assembly bias do not reconcile the two measurements at Planck best-fit cosmology. In fact, despite incorporating galaxy assembly bias, the satellite distribution parameter, and the satellite velocity bias parameter into our extended HOD model, our fits still strongly suggest a 31-34% discrepancy between the observed projected clustering and galaxy-galaxy lensing measurements. It remains to be seen whether a combination of other galaxy assembly bias models, alternative cosmological parameters, or baryonic effects can explain the amplitude difference between the two signals.
Excitation of Quadrupole and Octupole Levels of C-12, O-16, and Ca-40 by 156-MeV Protons

The inelastic cross sections and polarizations for the excitation of some observed ${2}^{+}$ and ${3}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ levels of $^{12}\mathrm{C}$, $^{16}\mathrm{O}$, and $^{40}\mathrm{Ca}$ by 156-MeV protons were calculated in the distorted-wave, impulse approximation using the particle-hole transition densities of Gillet and collaborators. The results were compared with available experimental data and good qualitative agreement was obtained; in particular the particle-hole densities provided the necessary enhancements of the cross sections. Fits were also attempted using the theory of collective excitations. These provide reasonable fits to the cross-section data, but not to the polarization.
Social Justice and Advanced Cancer Patients: an Analysis of Key Policies

This policy analysis examines key aspects of two policies fundamental to work with terminal cancer patients: the Medicare Hospice Benefit and Medicare policy in palliative care. End-of-life care, affected by these policies, should address physical, emotional, and spiritual suffering for all vulnerable groups. Using Gilbert and Terrell’s framework, social allocations, social provisions, service delivery, and financing are examined to better understand each policy’s effects on equality, equity, and adequacy for terminally ill cancer patients. In practice, each has substantially socially unjust effects for cancer patients. Disproportionate advantages result for those who are white, have family caregiving support systems, those with higher socioeconomic status, and individuals with stable insurance coverage. The Medicare Hospice Benefit and Medicare coverage for palliative care need to be better understood by policy practitioners and all practitioners in health care settings. Advocacy can contribute to improved equity in end-of-life cancer care.
Chemistry and slavery in the Scottish Enlightenment

The Scottish Enlightenment has long been identified with abolitionism because of the writings of the moral and economic philosophers and the absence of slaves in Scotland itself. However, Scots were disproportionately represented in the ownership, management, and especially medical treatment of slaves in the British Caribbean. Sugar and cotton flowed into Glasgow and young, educated Scots looking for work as traders, bookkeepers, doctors made the return trip back to the Caribbean to manage the plantations. Chemically trained doctors and agriculturalists tested their theories in the plantations and developed new theories based on their experimentation on the land and slaves. In foregrounding the participation of Scottish trained chemists in the practice of slavery, I argue that the development of eighteenth-century chemistry and the broader intellectual Enlightenment were inextricably entangled with the economic Improvement Movement and the colonial economy of the British slave trade.
Selecting Regions of Interest in Large Multi-Scale Images for Cancer Pathology.

Recent breakthroughs in object detection and image classification using Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) are revolutionizing the state of the art in medical imaging, and microscopy in particular presents abundant opportunities for computer vision algorithms to assist medical professionals in diagnosis of diseases ranging from malaria to cancer. High resolution scans of microscopy slides called Whole Slide Images (WSIs) offer enough information for a cancer pathologist to come to a conclusion regarding cancer presence, subtype, and severity based on measurements of features within the slide image at multiple scales and resolutions. WSIs' extremely high resolutions and feature scales ranging from gross anatomical structures down to cell nuclei preclude the use of standard CNN models for object detection and classification, which have typically been designed for images with dimensions in the hundreds of pixels and with objects on the order of the size of the image itself. We explore parallel approaches based on Reinforcement Learning and Beam Search to learn to progressively zoom into the WSI to detect Regions of Interest (ROIs) in liver pathology slides containing one of two types of liver cancer, namely Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) and Cholangiocarcinoma (CC). These ROIs can then be presented directly to the pathologist to aid in measurement and diagnosis or be used for automated classification of tumor subtype.
Feasibility of Inpatient Continuous Glucose Monitoring During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Early Experience.

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems have been explored in a few studies for non–intensive care unit (ICU) patients (1–3). During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE) became a concern. On 1 April 2020, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced it would not object to the use of CGM systems to assist with COVID-19 patient monitoring (4). This study was conducted to explore the feasibility of using CGM in noncritically ill patients hospitalized with COVID-19. Non-ICU adult COVID-19–positive patients receiving subcutaneous insulin injection and point of care (POC) glucose testing (Accu-Chek Inform II) were eligible to participate. Exclusion criteria included unstable glucose levels (POC glucose 350 mg/dL) at entry, hypotension, significant edema, being on dialysis, being postsurgical or with planned surgery/computed tomography/MRI, and taking hydroxyurea, ascorbic acid, or acetaminophen >1 g every 6 h. Participants gave informed consent. The protocol was approved by the Institutional Review Board at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Dexcom G6 sensor was placed in the lower abdomen by the team physician. iPhone 5S was used as a receiver, placed at the patient’s door. The data were transmitted to the Dexcom Follow app in the smartphone at the nurses’ station and the investigator’s smart devices. Participants continued to …
Jesus as an Introspective Leader

This chapter delves into the solitude of Jesus, and the times when he was alone for positive reasons, including rest, reflection, and prayer. This chapter provides current leaders with a workable framework to remain spiritually and emotionally healthy through spaces of solitude. Christian leaders, as they begin to understand the importance of solitude, can remain healthy by embodying Jesus’s approach during their own times of solitude and by appreciating the simplicity of these moments and the significant impact they can have on our lives as leaders.
Patient and provider perceptions on utilizing a mobile technology platform to improve surgical outcomes in the perioperative setting

Background and objectives Patient engagement software is a ubiquitous and expensive commercially available tool designed to improve transitions of care. There are currently no high-quality patient and provider-level data about the usability of these products for surgical oncology patients. This study aims to better understand patient and provider attitudes and perceptions about the implementation of such technology. Methods Focused interviews were conducted following the demonstration of a provider-built mobile technology platform. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed. Data were consensus coded inductively and categorized into themes regarding patient and provider perspectives on the usability and implementation of MobiMD. Results Our interviews revealed four consistent themes: (1) patients feel there is a lack of reliable resources for patient education; (2) both patients and providers are supportive of using a mobile application; (3) providers perceive patient onboarding as an added burden on current workflows; and (4) after onboarding, providers express that such an application would optimize current workflows. Conclusions Patients perceive a need for improved perioperative education. Providers and patients agree that a mobile technology platform would be an effective solution in addressing this need. Effective implementation of such an intervention may improve patient education and engagement, leading to improved patient outcomes.
Removal of hexavalent chromium by anion exchange: non-target anion behavior and practical implications

Ion exchange is effective for hexavalent chromium removal from drinking water sources, but non-target anions (i.e., arsenic, vanadium, and uranium) that co-occur must be assessed to inform, design, and implement operational strategies. Three strong base ion exchange (SBIX) resins were pilot tested. The macroporous polyacrylic resin had a higher chromium capacity relative to two gel polystyrene resins. However, the broader regeneration elution peak of the macroporous polyacrylic resin negated the advantages of higher resin capacity by producing more waste. Even when arsenic is below regulatory limits in the raw water, arsenic chromatographic peaking may control the number of resin contactors required for a full-scale design and inform the offset between parallel contactors. Regeneration efficiency was poor for both vanadium (15–51%) and uranium (21–70%). Poor vanadium regeneration efficiency, in combination with unique breakthrough curves, suggest that vanadium speciation is transforming in the resin phase to polynuclear complexes. Poor uranium regeneration efficiency would lead to accumulation above 0.05% wt within 3 loading-regeneration cycles, potentially triggering controlled disposal due to radioactivity. This study demonstrates that the behavior of non-target anions can heavily influence full-scale design and operation and should be considered during all phases of testing.
Single molecule tracking of bacterial cell surface cytochromes reveals dynamics that impact long-distance electron transport

Using a series of multiheme cytochromes, the metal-reducing bacterium Shewanella oneidensis MR-1 can perform extracellular electron transfer (EET) to respire redox-active surfaces, including minerals and electrodes outside the cell. While the role of multiheme cytochromes in transporting electrons across the cell wall is well established, these cytochromes were also recently found to facilitate long-distance (micrometer-scale) redox conduction along outer membranes and across multiple cells bridging electrodes. Recent studies proposed that long-distance conduction arises from the interplay of electron hopping and cytochrome diffusion, which allows collisions and electron exchange between cytochromes along membranes. However, the diffusive dynamics of the multiheme cytochromes have never been observed or quantified in vivo, making it difficult to assess their hypothesized contribution to the collision-exchange mechanism. Here we use quantum dot labeling, total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy, and single-particle tracking to quantify the lateral diffusive dynamics of the outer membrane-associated decaheme cytochromes MtrC and OmcA, two key components of EET in S. oneidensis. We observe confined diffusion behavior for both quantum dot-labeled MtrC and OmcA along cell surfaces (diffusion coefficients DMtrC = 0.0192 ± 0.0018 μm2/s, DOmcA = 0.0125 ± 0.0024 μm2/s) and the membrane extensions thought to function as bacterial nanowires. We find that these dynamics can trace a path for electron transport via overlap of cytochrome trajectories, consistent with the long-distance conduction mechanism. The measured dynamics inform kinetic Monte Carlo simulations that combine direct electron hopping and redox molecule diffusion, revealing significant electron transport rates along cells and membrane nanowires.
Assemblage by Design: The Postcards of Curt Teich and Company

Abstract Composition scholars’ recent attention to multimodal design and production has been prompted by a changing technological landscape characterized by the development of new digital and networked tools for composing: desktop publishing, blogs, creative software suites, social media, etc. However, current composing models might be better understood if we also attended to their antecedents—the design- and production-work of new-media texts in bygone eras. This article positions the production of picture postcards in the early twentieth-century as historical multimodal composing, a richly complex yet sparsely documented process of material assemblage ( Johnson-Eilola & Selber, 2007 ) that began with black-and-white photographs and ended with full-color, ready-to-mail scenic postcards. Under examination specifically are the processes of Curt Teich & Company, of Chicago, IL, which at its peak was the world's largest postcard manufacturer. By studying Teich production and design through the lens of assemblage, scholars can better understand the ways in which all composing—material, electronic, or otherwise—responds to specific exigencies and is shaped by cultural and technological contexts and conditions.
Environmental enhancement of U.S. biomass crop technologies: research results to date

Abstract The U.S. continues efforts to develop genetically superior short-rotation woody crops (hybrid poplar and willow) and herbaceous crops (switchgrass). These biomass crops can provide multiple environmental benefits as well as energy and fiber. This paper focuses on results of site-specific studies that are quantifying the environmental potential and ramifications of converting agricultural croplands to biomass crop production. At research-scales, no differences have been found in erosion and movement of nutrients from annual row crops, switchgrass, and tree crops with and without a cover crop in the initial year of establishment. Research- and watershed-scale studies on different soil types, in different regions, and to match tree species with specific site characteristics and management regimes will help determine whether research-scale results can be used to predict effects at larger scales and to identify best management practices to minimize environmental effects while maximizing yields. Studies in different regions of the U.S. are evaluating the habitat value of biomass crops compared to agricultural row crops, grasslands, or natural forests. Results to date from both research- and larger-scale plantings show that SRWCs support greater bird diversity than row crops, but less diversity than natural forests. Switchgrass plantings extended habitat for grasslands birds compared to row crops. Surveys on industrial tree crop plantings in the south-eastern U.S. are addressing the relationship between site characteristics (planting acreage, species, landscape context, and age of plantings) and breeding bird use. The environmental studies of water and soil quality and wildlife diversity are being used to identify management strategies for biomass crops to increase productivity while increasing agricultural sustainability.
Hitting the Ice Sheets Where It Hurts

In both hemispheres, glacier discharge to the sea has increased markedly in recent years as warm water from intermediate depths is melting the floating ends of glaciers from below, accelerating them.
Parallel Algorithms in Graph Theory: Planarity Testing (preliminary version)

We present 0(log2n) step parallel algorithms for planarity testing and for finding the triply connected components of a graph. The algorithms use a polynomial number of synchronous processors with shared memory.
Convergence of the discrete ordinates method for the transport equation

In the preceding, we have attempted to survey developments in the investigation of convergence properties and error bounds for the discrete ordinates approximations to the transport equation. This summary has been carried out in an abstract setting which, we believe, serves to unify and clarify much previous work in this area. The direction of future investigations is also clearly indicated.
The nature and origin of climatic fluctuations in Northeastern North America

Features of the atmospheric circulation and climate of northeastern Canada are reviewed. In particular, the role of the upper level trough and its variability are discussed. It is shown that longitudinal displacements of the mean summer trough create anomalies of both air temperature and sea ice conditions in the region of Baffin Island. Climatic anomaly patterns in Labrador-Ungava and Keewatin associated with trough displacements are also summarized. Two examples of the application of such information to paleoclimat-ological questions are discussed. One concerns the influx of "exotic" tree pollen into Baffin Island and its previously postulated relationship to southerly airflow. It is concluded that pollen peaks cannot yet be reliably used as a paleowind index. The pattern of glacial inception and ice sheet extension during the Last Glacial Maximum is also briefly considered in the light of the available climatic information. Finally, the role of orbital variations affecting the seasonal pattern of solar radiation is discussed with reference to the last glacial cycle.
Validation of the CAS Medical Systems, inc. OscilloMitt, hand-blood-pressure cuff.

BACKGROUND There are technical difficulties in accurately measuring blood pressure of individuals with varying arm and body sizes. OBJECTIVE To perform validation testing with 109 children of a novel cuff that occludes the palm rather than the upper arm. METHODS This cuff, the OscilloMitt made by CAS Medical Systems, Inc. , was used in conjunction with a commercially available monitor. Readings of blood pressure taken by trained auscultatory observers were compared with those of the OscilloMitt monitor. The mean difference in systolic blood pressure was 1.13mmHg and the mean difference in diastolic blood pressure was 0.94mmHg. The OscilloMitt was tolerated very well, especially by the young children (those aged <5years). CONCLUSION The OscilloMitt is accurate and its use should be preferable to traditional upper-arm placement of cuffs for assessing many specific groups of patients. We recommend its use for persons aged 2 years and more.
Finite sample properties of maximum likelihood and quasi-maximum likelihood estimators of egarch models

In this paper I examine finite sample properties of the maximum likelihood and quasi-maximum likelihood estimators of EGARCH(1,1) processes using Monte Carlo methods. I use response surface methodo...
Notation and representation in collaborative object-oriented design: an observational study

Software designers in the object-oriented paradigm can make use of modeling tools and standard notations such as UML. Nevertheless, casual observations from collocated design collaborations suggest that teams tend to use physical mediums to sketch a plethora of informal diagrams in varied representations that often diverge from UML. To better understand such collaborations and support them with tools, we need to understand the origins, roles, uses, and implications of these alternate representations. To this end we conducted observational studies of collaborative design exercises, in which we focused on representation use. Our primary finding is that teams intentionally improviserepresentations and organize design information in responseto ad-hoc needs, which arise from the evolution of the design, and which are difficult to meet with fixed standard notations. This behavior incurs orientation and grounding difficulties for which teams compensate by relying on memory, other communication mediums, and contextual cues. Without this additional information the artifacts are difficult to interpret and have limited documentation potential. Collaborative design tools and processes should therefore focus on preserving contextual information while permitting unconstrained mixing and improvising of notations.
Ironic empathy in Cronenberg's crash: The psychodynamics of postmodern displacement from a tenuous reality

(2000). Ironic empathy in Cronenberg's crash: The psychodynamics of postmodern displacement from a tenuous reality. Quarterly Review of Film and Video: Vol. 17, No. 3, pp. 187-209.
Passivation of a Si(100) surface by S from solution

A wet-chemical process has been developed to passivate the Si(100) surface with sulfur (S) in an aqueous solution. The solution contains an etchant for SiO 2 , ammonium hydroxide [NH 4 OH] and a passivant for the surface, ammonium sulfide [(NH 4 ) 2 S]. The compatibility of the etchant with the passivant allows SiO 2 , native or thermal, to be removed in situ from the surface. A fresh and clean Si(100) surface is exposed right before it is passivated by S. Schottky barrier heights of Al on S-passivated n- and p-type Si(100) show a greater sensitivity to Al work function and Si electron affinity, suggesting good-quality passivation.
An algorithm to compute all full-span sub arrays of a regular array

We present an algorithm that explicitly generates all full-span regular sub arrays of a given N dimensional regular array. By explicit, we mean that we generate the N-dimensional indexes of the j-dimensional sub array cells that make up each j-dimensional sub array. The algorithm can be viewed as generating all j-dimensional full span sub arrays for fixed j, for j = 0 to j = N. We first list some lemmas and definitions, and then give the algorithm that is based upon the knowledge gained from a new expansion [1] and [2]. There is an alternate combinatorial argument yielding the same algorithm.First we give an heuristic summary and then a more detailed example use. In the algorithm, we use APL-C-Java order in the indexes, i.e., right-to-left (RTL). However, essentially the same algorithm (except for transpositions) holds for left-to-right (LTR) order as used in FORTRAN. In the exposition, we use mathematical notation, which is LTR.There is a Java 1.4 code and an APL WS available. The Java code requires an interactive input of the dimension of the original array and its shape vector. The APL WS contains FNS that work the same way, and others that can be used as callable sub FNS. An appendix exhibits the APL code that computes this algorithm for a given j.
A survey of new directions in database systems

Summary form only given, as follows. As database system research evolves, there are several enduring themes. One, of course, is how we deal with the largest possible amounts of data. A less obvious theme is optimization ? it is an essential ingredient of all modern forms of database system. Because we deal with large volumes of data, we are often forced to process that data in regular ways. But when operations are uniform, there is an opportunity for the use of very-high-level languages, of which SQL is the primary example. However, to make a very-high-level language effective, we need to optimize it well, that is, produce effective query plans from all sorts of queries. In this talk, we shall review the principal directions in which modern database research is going, and in each case talk a bit about the optimization problems. Stream management systems are one very important new area. Another is peer-to-peer database systems. Integration of heterogeneous information, especially in virtual databases, is also a major challenge. XML, XQUERY, and semistructured data in general form yet another research opportunity.
Openings: Acknowledging Essential Moments in Human Communication

For those new to Michael Hyde's work, his recent volume, Openings: Acknowledging Essential Moments in Human Communication, distills ideas that he has been shaping since The Call of Conscience: Heid...
Fractionation of the stable isotopes of carbon and oxygen in marine calcareous organisms—the Echinoidea. Part I. Variation of C13 and O18 content within individuals

Abstract Detailed environmental analysis of ancient carbonate rocks using geochemical criteria such as C 13 -C 12 and O 18 -O 16 ratios is dependent upon an understanding of the relationships between the isotopic composition of modern sediments (and the calcareous organisms which contribute to sediment formation) and the various parameters of the environment. A systematic study of the distribution of C 13 and O 18 in the calcite skeletons of recent sea urchins and sand dollars has demonstrated that these animals fractionate both carbon and oxygen isotopes to a considerable extent. Systematic variation of δC 13 within a single skeleton may amount to as much as 13 per mil. In general, the coronal plates of the test are greatly enriched in C 12 with respect to the spines, but the isotopic compositions of the spines are similar to those of most other marine invertebrates, such as the molluscs, foraminifera etc. The different morphological parts of the echinoid lantern differ in δC 13 and δO 18 values to the extent of several per mil; δC 13 and δO 18 for these parts are strongly correlated, suggesting incorporation of varying amounts of CO 3 post|staggered|2− of different isotopic composition from different sources, perhaps from mixtures of metabolic CO 2 and seawater bicarbonate in varying proportions. Variation in the degree of isotope fractionation during growth appears to be relatively small.
Clinical trial of a novel surface cooling system for fever control in neurocritical care patients.

Objective:To compare the efficacy of a novel water-circulating surface cooling system with conventional measures for treating fever in neuro-intensive care unit patients.Design:Prospective, unblinded, randomized controlled trial.Setting:Neurologic intensive care unit in an urban teaching hospital.Pa
Data mining in business services

Data mining applies traditional statistical tools as well as artificial intelligence algorithms to the analysis of large datasets. Data mining has proven very effective in many fields, including business. This paper reviews applications of data mining relevant to the service industry, and demonstrates primary business functions and data mining methods. Typical industry data mining process is described, analytic tools are reviewed, and major software tools noted.
Evaluation of theories of vibrational magnetic dipole transition moments using atomic axial tensor sum rules and paramagnetic susceptibilities

Abstract Vibrational magnetic dipole transition moments, and hence rotational strengths and vibrational circular dichroism intensities, are determined by the atomic axial tensors. The electronic contributions to the latter, I λ αβ ), are related via a sum rule to the paramagnetic susceptibility tensor, χ ϱ αβ . Their accuracy can be gauged by comparison of χ ϱ αβ tensors calculated using this sum rule to experimental data. This procedure is used to evaluate the atomic polar tensor (APT) and localized molecular orbital (LMO) theories of vibrational magnetic dipole transition moments, implemented ab initio. Our conclusion in regard to the LMO theory is not in agreement with that recently arrived at by Polavarapu.