cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Technical note: an economical apparatus for the observation and harvest of mineral precipitation experiments with light microscopy

Abstract. We describe a small-scale, reusable, and low-cost double-diffusion setup that allows microscopic observation over time for use in mineral precipitation experiments that use organic polymers as a matrix. The setup uniquely accommodates changes in solution chemistry during the course of an experiment and facilitates easy harvesting of the precipitates for subsequent analysis.
Treating the control variables in non-experimental research through regression analysis

This short presentation focuses on the procedure for statistical treatment of control variables in nonexperimental studies, through multiple regression analysis. Indications are illustrated in a step-by-step manner, based on an actual study. Some recommendations are made, based on research literature, regarding the optimal deployment of this technique for the statistical control of variables.
Two-step homogenization of textile composites using mechanics of structure genome

Abstract Mechanics of structure genome is extended to provide a novel two-step homogenization approach to predicting the effective properties of textile composites. The first homogenization step (micro-homogenization) deals with determining the effective properties of tows (yarns) from fiber and matrix properties. In the second homogenization step (macro-homogenization), the effective properties of textile composites are computed from the yarn and matrix properties. MSG is enabled to capture pointwise anisotropy that is due to woven microstructures. The finite thickness effects and inter-ply shift effects of textile composites are also accurately predicted by enabling MSG to treat aperiodic conditions in the thickness direction. A new software TexGen4SC, freely accessible in the cloud as an App at https://cdmhub.org/resources/texgen4sc , is developed based on TexGen and MSG companion code SwiftComp™. TexGen4SC provides a fast and convenient way to compute properties of textile composites. Several numerical examples are presented to investigate the efficiency and accuracy of the proposed method.
Widespread use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) among non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) survivors.

9057 Background: The incidence of CAM use among patients with cancer is higher when compared to the general population. However, there are few studies examining CAM use in NHL survivors, and limited data are available regarding beliefs in CAM. This study was conducted to examine the prevalence of CAM use in NHL, define CAM beliefs among NHL survivors, and explore differences between patients with indolent and aggressive lymphoma. Methods: Newly diagnosed lymphoma patients were prospectively enrolled within 9 months of diagnosis in the University of Iowa/Mayo Clinic SPORE Molecular Epidemiology Resource from 2002-2008. NHL patients who completed the 3-year post diagnosis questionnaire, which includes questions regarding CAM use and beliefs, were included in this study. Chi-squared tests and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests were used to assess the association of CAM use with prognostic and demographic factors. Results: 719 patients were included with a median age of 63 years (range 22-92). 53% were male. Overall, 63...
Prevalence of Middle Mesial Canals and Isthmi in the Mesial Root of Mandibular Molars: An In Vivo Cone-beam Computed Tomographic Study

Abstract Introduction Many studies have investigated the morphology of the mandibular molar, but the prevalence of the middle mesial (MM) canal in the mesial root of the mandibular molar is still the subject of controversy. In addition, in previous literature, a true MM canal has not been clearly distinguished from an isthmus between the mesiobuccal and mesiolingual canals. Therefore, the objectives of this study were 2-fold: 1. To identify the prevalence of a true MM canal and/or isthmus in the mesial root of mandibular molars using a sample of cone-beam computed tomographic images 2. To analyze the configuration of MM canals and isthmi in the mesial root of mandibular molars Methods Ninety limited field of view cone-beam computed tomographic scans were observed. One hundred twenty-two mature mandibular first and second molars with no previous root canal treatment, no root resorption, and intact crowns were retrospectively evaluated. Data regarding the sex, age, presence of MM canals, and number of root canals in the mesial root were recorded. Result Of the 122 teeth, 20 (16.4%) had true MM canals. The prevalence of MM canals was 26% in first molars and 8% in second molars ( P P > .05). Conclusions This study showed a high prevalence of mandibular molars with MM canals or isthmi. The detection and biomechanical cleaning of these areas during nonsurgical or surgical root canal treatment are critical.
Extending the upper temperature range of gas chromatography with all-silicon microchip columns using a heater/clamp assembly

Miniaturization of gas chromatography (GC) instrumentation is of interest because it addresses current and future issues relating to compactness, portability and field application. While incremental advancements continue to be reported in GC with columns fabricated in microchips (referred to in this paper as "microchip columns"), the current performance is far from acceptable. This lower performance compared to conventional GC is due to factors such as pooling of the stationary phase in corners of non-cylindrical channels, adsorption of sensitive compounds on incompletely deactivated surfaces, shorter column lengths and less than optimum interfacing to injector and detector. In this work, a GC system utilizing microchip columns was developed that solves the latter challenge, i.e., microchip interfacing to injector and detector. A microchip compression clamp was constructed to heat the microchip (i.e., primary heater), and seal the injector and detector fused silica interface tubing to the inlet and outlet ports of the microchip channels with minimum extra-column dead volume. This clamp allowed occasional operation up to 375°C and routine operation up to 300°C. The compression clamp was constructed of a low expansion alloy, Kovar™, to minimize leaking due to thermal expansion mismatch at the interface during repeated thermal cycling, and it was tested over several months for more than one hundred injections without forming leaks. A 5.9m long microcolumn with rectangular cross section of 158μm×80μm, which approximately matches a 100μm i.d. cylindrical fused silica column, was fabricated in a silicon wafer using deep reactive ion etching (DRIE) and high temperature fusion bonding; finally, the channel was coated statically with a 1% vinyl, 5% phenyl, 94% methylpolysiloxane stationary phase. High temperature separations of C10-C40 n-alkanes and a commercial diesel sample were demonstrated using the system under both temperature programmed GC (TPGC) and thermal gradient GC (TGGC) conditions. TGGC analysis of a complex essential oil sample was also demonstrated. Addition of a secondary heater and polyimide insulation proved to be helpful in achieving the desired elution temperature without having to raise the primary heater temperature above 300°C for high boiling point compounds.
Sequential-Optimization-Based Framework for Robust Modeling and Design of Heterogeneous Catalytic Systems

We present a general optimization-based framework for (i) ab initio and experimental data driven mechanistic modeling and (ii) optimal catalyst design of heterogeneous catalytic systems. Both cases are formulated as a nonlinear optimization problem that is subject to a mean-field microkinetic model and thermodynamic consistency requirements as constraints, for which we seek sparse solutions through a ridge (L2 regularization) penalty. The solution procedure involves an iterative sequence of forward simulation of the differential algebraic equations pertaining to the microkinetic model using a numerical tool capable of handling stiff systems, sensitivity calculations using linear algebra, and gradient-based nonlinear optimization. A multistart approach is used to explore the solution space, and a hierarchical clustering procedure is implemented for statistically classifying potentially competing solutions. An example of methanol synthesis through hydrogenation of CO and CO2 on a Cu-based catalyst is used t...
Prospective validation of a screening tool to identify older adults in need of a driving evaluation

OBJECTIVES: To prospectively validate and refine the 5-item "CRASH" screening tool for identifying older drivers needing a behind-the-wheel (BTW) test. DESIGN: Prospective observational study. SETTING: Geriatric and internal medicine primary care clinics affiliated with a tertiary care hospital and a local BTW program. PARTICIPANTS: Cognitively intact drivers aged 65 and older (N = 315). MEASUREMENTS: Participants completed baseline questionnaire (including CRASH tool) and assessments and BTW test (evaluator blinded to questionnaire results) and participated in 1-month telephone follow-up. Analysis included descriptive statistics and examination of predictive ability of the CRASH tool to discriminate normal (pass) from abnormal (conditional pass or fail) on the BTW test, with logistic regression and CART techniques for tool refinement. RESULTS: Two hundred sixty-six participants (84%) had a BTW test; of these, 17% had a normal rating and 83% an abnormal rating. Forty-five percent of those with an abnormal score were advised to limit driving under particular conditions. Neither the CRASH tool nor its individual component variables were significantly associated with the summary BTW score; in refined models with other variables, the best-performing tool had approximately 67% sensitivity and specificity for an abnormal BTW score. Most participants found the BTW test useful and were willing to pay a median of $50. At 1-month follow-up, no participants had stopped driving. CONCLUSION: The CRASH screening tool cannot be recommended for use in clinical practice. FINDINGS on older adults' perceived utility of the BTW test and the stability of driving patterns at 1-month follow-up could be useful for future research studies and for design of older driver programs.© 2017, Copyright the Authors Journal compilation © 2017, The American Geriatrics Society. Language: en
Getting into Microwaves and the MTT-S [Presidents' Column]

In this final “President's Column” as I end of my term as president of the IEEE Microwave Theory and Techniques Society (MTT-S), I have cause to reflect on how I became a microwave engineer and on the role the MTT-S has played in my career and the careers of my colleagues. Perhaps the most important functions of the Society are the MTT-S Distinguished Microwave Lecturer (DML) program, our conferences, and our publications. All of these contributed to my career, and I hope they are doing the same in yours.
Geospatial mapping to identify feasible HIV prevention and treatment strategies that target specific settings

The paper recently published by Coburn, Okano, and Blower (1) proposes the use of geospatial mapping to optimize resource allocation to eliminate HIV in Lesotho, a small landlocked country in Southern Africa with a population of about 2 million and an HIV prevalence of approximately 25% in urban centers and 21% in rural settlements. In their study, the authors describe a geostatistical framework for designing a novel treatment as prevention (TasP) for HIV elimination strategy (2). They make the argument that reaching the UNAIDS goals of 90-90-90 (diagnosed-treated-virologically suppressed) may be quite dif cult in some rural communities. Consequently, they propose to focus efforts in urban areas with a high density of infection.
Effect of gamma radiation on the stability of UV replicated composite mirrors

Composite replicated mirrors are gaining increasing attention for space-based applications due to their lower density, tailorable mechanical properties, and rapid manufacturing times over state-of-the-art glass mirrors. Ultraviolet (UV)-cured mirrors provide a route by which high-quality mirrors can be manufactured at relatively low processing temperatures that minimize residual stresses. The successful utilization of these mirrors requires nanometer scale dimensional stability after both thermal cycling and hygrothermal exposure. We investigate the effect of gamma irradiation as a process to improve the stability of UV replicated mirrors. Gamma radiation exposure was shown to increase the cure state of these mirrors as evidenced by an increase in modulus, glass transition temperature, and the thermal degradation behavior with dosage. Gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy also showed evidence of consumption of the primary monomers and initiation of the photosensitive agent with gamma exposure. The gamma-exposed mirrors exhibited significant improvement in stability even after multiple thermal cycling in comparison with nonirradiated composite mirrors. Though improvements in the cure state contribute to the overall stability, the radiation dosage was also shown to reduce the film stress of the mirror by over 80% as evidenced using Stoney replicated specimens. This reduction in residual stress is encouraging considering the utilization of these structures for space applications. This paper shows that replicated composite mirrors are a viable alternative to conventional optical structures.
Characterization of woodchuck burrows within seven sensitive areas at Antietam National Battlefield, Maryland

The goal of a two-year study of the woodchuck (Marmota monax) on Antietam National Battlefield (ANTI) in Maryland was to reduce continuing damage to the Park's unique cultural and historical resources caused by woodchuck burrowing and scent-marking behavior. Park managers were concerned with increased maintenance costs, loss of biological and historic resources, and visitor safety as a result of the high density woodchuck population. Data were collected on all burrow systems found within seven sensitive areas, defined as historical farmsteads and high visitor usage areas, within ANTI. Burrow activity status (active, inactive), number of entrances, presence of secure objects, distances to roads and walkways, and damage ratings were recorded for each system. Chewing and burrowing damage was assessed on its potential for the undermining of monuments, building foundations, rock walls and fences and its visibility to park visitors.
Large Cardinals from Determinacy

This chapter gives an account of Woodin’s general technique for deriving large cardinal strength from determinacy hypotheses. These results appear here for the first time and the treatment is self-contained.
Nonadherence to breast and cervical cancer screening: What are the linkages to chronic disease risk?

Background Several preventive practices that reduce chronic disease risk have been associated with breast and cervical cancer screening, including maintenance of normal weight and avoidance of cigarette smoking. A history of certain chronic illnesses such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease has also been related to cancer screening. Nevertheless, studies that have attempted to identify women who are less likely to have had a recent breast or cervical cancer screening test have infrequently examined the associations of breast and cervical cancer screening with multiple health factors that influence chronic disease risk. Methods To clarify relationships between cancer screening and health behaviors and other factors that influence chronic disease risk, we examined the self-reported breast and cervical cancer screening practices of women in the United States by using data from the 1999 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. The women were described according to their recent use of mammography and the Papanicolaou test, physician visits within the past year, health insurance coverage, and preventive practices that reduce chronic disease risk. Results Overall, 74.5% (95% CI, 73.9%-75.1%) of the women in this sample aged 40 years or older (n = 56,528) had received a mammogram within the past 2 years. The percentage of women who had been screened for breast cancer, however, varied widely by factors associated with reducing the risk of chronic disease (e.g., cholesterol check in the past 2 years, blood pressure check in the past 2 years, normal weight, avoidance of cigarette smoking) and having access to health care (e.g., health insurance coverage, recent physician visit). Similarly, 84.4% (95% CI, 83.9%-84.9%) of all women aged 18 years or older who had not undergone a hysterectomy (n = 69,113) had received a Papanicolaou test in the past 3 years, and factors associated with reduced chronic disease risk and health care access were related to having had a recent Papanicolaou test. Conclusion The results of this study suggest that underscreened women who are at risk for breast and cervical cancer are likely to benefit from programs that identify and address coexisting prevention needs. The identification of coexisting prevention needs might assist in developing interventions that address multiple risks for chronic disease among women and might subsequently help improve the efficiency and effectiveness of prevention programs.
Design and Analysis of the 50 mm Collider Dipole Vacuum Vessel

In this study, a finite element model is used to predict the vacuum vessel’s response to loads resulting from its own self-weight and shipping and handling. Structural members of the cold mass support system must behave elastically during assembly and transport of the magnets so that alignment with respect to an external reference is reproducible. This paper includes deflection and stress analyses of the vacuum vessel for the SSC 50 mm collider dipole cryostats. In addition, material selection and stress relieving techniques are discussed. Several methods of local structural reinforcement were analyzed prior to the selection of the current design. The results from these analyses are given for comparison.
Falls in the Bathroom: A Mechanism of Injury for All Ages

Abstract Background When ground-level falls occur in the bathroom, there is particular potential for morbidity and mortality given the high density of hard surfaces. Risk factors are not clearly defined by the existing literature. The objective of this study was to define the epidemiology, injury patterns, and outcomes after falls in the bathroom. Materials and methods All patients presenting to LAC+USC Medical Center (01/2008-05/2015) after a fall in the bathroom (ICD-9 code E884.6) were included. Demographics, injury data, investigations, procedures, and outcomes were collected. Results Fifty-seven patients were included, with mean age 45 y (range 0-92). All ages were affected, with ages 41-60 y at highest risk. Common comorbidities included cardiovascular disease (n = 23, 40%), neuromuscular disorders (n = 13, 23%), and diabetes (n = 9, 16%). Ten patients (18%) were intoxicated. Home medications included antihypertensives (n = 18, 32%), antipsychotics (n = 9, 16%), and anticoagulants (n = 8, 14%). Common investigations included X-rays (n = 41, 72%) and CT scans of the head (n = 20, 35%). The most frequent injuries were contusion/laceration (n = 45, 79%), fracture (n = 12, 21%), and traumatic brain injury (n = 7, 12%). Most patients did not require hospital admission (n = 46, 81%), although 4 (7%) needed intensive care unit care and operative intervention (ORIF [n = 2, 4%] or craniectomy [n = 2, 4%]). Mortality was low (n = 1, 2%). Most patients were discharged home (n = 40, 70%). Conclusions All ages, especially 41-60 y, are susceptible to falls in the bathroom. Despite the potential for serious injury, most do not require hospital admission. Risk factors include drugs/alcohol, cardiovascular disease, neuromuscular disorders, and diabetes. Efforts to minimize fall risk should be directed toward these individuals.
Assessment of Covert Consciousness in the Intensive Care Unit: Clinical and Ethical Considerations.

Objective To propose a practical ethical framework for how task-based functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and electroencephalography (EEG) may be used in the intensive care unit (ICU) to identify covert consciousness in patients with acute severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). Methods We present 2 clinical scenarios in which investigational task-based fMRI and EEG were performed in critically ill patients with acute severe TBI who appeared unconscious on the bedside behavioral assessment. From these cases, we consider the clinical and ethical challenges that emerge and suggest how to reconcile them. We also provide recommendations regarding communication with families about ICU patients with covert consciousness. Results Covert consciousness was detected acutely in a patient who died in the ICU due to withdrawal of life-sustaining therapy, whereas covert consciousness was not detected in a patient who subsequently recovered consciousness, communication, and functional independence. These cases raise ethical challenges about how assessment of covert consciousness in the ICU might inform treatment decisions, prognostication, and perceptions about the benefits and burdens of ongoing care. Conclusions Given that covert consciousness can be detected acutely in the ICU, we recommend that clinicians reconsider evaluative norms for ICU patients. As our clinical appreciation of covert consciousness evolves and its ethical import unfolds, we urge prognostic humility and transparency when clinicians communicate with families in the ICU about goals of care.
Cost-effectiveness of rivaroxaban versus warfarin for treatment of nonvalvular atrial fibrillation in patients with worsening renal function

Abstract Background Nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) is highly prevalent and increases the risks of cardiovascular events. In a recent subgroup analysis, treatment response was shown to vary for patients exhibiting worsening renal function (WRF) on-treatment. It is important to understand the cost-effectiveness of novel oral anticoagulant (NOAC) use in this population. Methods A cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) was conducted using a Markov model to determine whether NOAC rivaroxaban treatment is cost-effective relative to warfarin in NVAF patients with on-treatment WRF. Input parameters were sourced from clinical literature including a multicenter clinical trial and subgroup analysis. We studied elderly US male patients at increased risk for stroke (CHADS2 score ≥ 2) undergoing treatment for NVAF and exhibiting WRF. Main outcome measures included total healthcare costs in 2017 US dollars (societal perspective), total quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER), and incremental net monetary benefits (INMB) per-patient. Results The remaining lifetime use of rivaroxaban is associated with 5.69 QALYs at a cost of $66,075 per patient, while warfarin produced 5.22 QALYs with costs of $78,504 per patient. At a willingness-to-pay (WTP) of $150,000 per QALY, incremental net monetary benefits (INMB) per patient are $83,590. In our population, treatment with warfarin was dominated by rivaroxaban in 99.4% of 10,000 simulations. Conclusions Rivaroxaban is likely a dominant treatment over warfarin in elderly US male NVAF patients exhibiting WRF, providing increased QALYs at a decreased overall cost. Application of these findings may require healthcare providers to predict which patients are likely to exhibit WRF.
Modeling Diffusion of Impurities in Molybdenum Thin Films as a Function of Substrate Temperature

Alkali ions are key to improving the performance of polycrystalline Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) solar cells. Typically, a soda–lime glass substrate acts as an intrinsic source for many alkali ions. For these ions to reach the CIGS layer, diffusion through a metallic back contact is necessary. Typically deposited via sputtering, the morphology of this metallic back contact is dependent on multiple deposition parameters, including substrate temperature. By preparing films with varying deposition parameters, and utilizing both, multiple material characterizations (X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and secondary ion mass spectrometry) and numerical modeling, we demonstrate here that effective paths of diffusion are just as important as diffusion rate for the alkali ions. As the substrate temperature increases, the mechanism that hinders the ability for alkali ions to diffuse switches effectively from diffusion rate to effective path of diffusion. It is shown that the lack of viable diffusion paths at substrate temperatures above 100 °C becomes the dominant factor for the transport of alkali ions.
Ultraviolet fluorescence discovered in New World flying squirrels (Glaucomys)

Fluorescence of visible wavelengths under ultraviolet (UV) light has been previously detected in a wide range of birds, reptiles, and amphibians and a few marsupial mammals. Here, we report the discovery of vivid UV fluorescence of the pelage in Glaucomys, the New World flying squirrels. Fluorescence in varying intensities of pink was observed in females and males of all extant species (G. oregonensis, G. sabrinus, and G. volans) across all sampled geographic areas in North and Central America and a temporal range of 130 years. We observed fluorescence in museum specimens (n = 109) and wild individuals (n = 5) on both dorsal and ventral surfaces. Museum specimens of three co-occurring, diurnal sciurid species (Sciurus carolinensis, S. niger, and Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) were also examined but did not fluoresce. The ecological significance of this trait in the nocturnal–crepuscular flying squirrels warrants further investigation.
In Search of Conservatism

This essay was written as a comment on a paper by Professor Robert Nagel, entitled “Conservatism and Constitutionalism in the United States”: both the paper and the comment were delivered at a conference at the University of Lisbon in June 2018. After considering and criticizing various candidates for a conservative constitutional jurisprudence, Nagel concludes by suggesting that the essence of judicial conservatism lies in a traditionalism that acknowledges that reason can only operate from within experience rather than as a more detached examination of experience. This comment questions Nagel’s conclusion, suggests that conservatism would need to have a more ethical and ontological dimension, and offers a distinction between “believing traditionalists” and “skeptical traditionalists” who may converge in their practical values and prescriptions even though they differ fundamentally on a more philosophical level.
The prosecution of “others”: presidential rhetoric and the interrelation of framing, legal prosecutions, and the Global War on Terror

ABSTRACTIn examining the Global War on Terror, the effects of presidential rhetoric on the framing of terrorism has been well documented. However, little previous work links terrorism and its statu...
The case for unifying data loading in machine learning clusters

Training machine learning models involves iteratively fetching and pre-processing batches of data. Conventionally, popular ML frameworks implement data loading within a job and focus on improving the performance of a single job. However, such an approach is inefficient in shared clusters where multiple training jobs are likely to be accessing the same data and duplicating operations. To illustrate this, we present a case study which reveals that for hyper-parameter tuning experiments, we can reduce up to 89% I/O and 97% pre-processing redundancy. Based on this observation, we make the case for unifying data loading in machine learning clusters by bringing the isolated data loading systems together into a single system. Such a system architecture can remove the aforementioned redundancies that arise due to the isolation of data loading in each job. We introduce OneAccess, a unified data access layer and present a prototype implementation that shows a 47.3% improvement in I/O cost when sharing data across jobs. Finally we discuss open research challenges in designing and developing a unified data loading layer that can run across frameworks on shared multi-tenant clusters, including how to handle distributed data access, support diverse sampling schemes, and exploit new storage media.
Second-Chance Placement of Hemodialysis Patients After Involuntary Discharge for Disruptive Behavior

A small subset of hemodialysis patients exhibits persistently disruptive behavior. When all reasonable attempts to stop such behavior have been exhausted, they may undergo involuntary discharge from their dialysis unit. Such patients typically present repeatedly to the emergency department for urgent inpatient dialysis. We describe a novel approach to achieve a successful "second-chance" placement at a new outpatient dialysis unit. The patients were required to dialyze in the inpatient unit for a minimum of 3 months, during which their compliance and behavior were observed closely. In parallel, an experienced social worker in the emergency department applied a structured protocol. The approach included debriefing about the incident leading to the discharge, coaching about building a trusting relationship with the nephrologist and dialysis staff, education about constructive handling of grievances, and arranging a face-to-face office interview with the medical director to determine their potential acceptance. Finally, the emergency department social worker conducted a formal handoff with the social worker at the accepting facility. During a 4-year period, we accrued 12 patients with an involuntary discharge. Following this protocol, 7 of them have been successfully placed at a new outpatient dialysis unit for 77 to 650 days without recurrence of disruptive behavior.
EP788 Lebanese experience with cytoreductive surgery in ovarian cancer: a single institution series

Introduction/Background To review the surgical outcomes of cytoreductive surgery for ovarian cancer in a single institution. Methodology we reviewed all patients with ovarian cancer who received a cytoreductive surgery between January 2005 and December 2018 at Hotel-Dieu de France University Hospital, Lebanon. Results 161 patients were included. Mean age at surgery was 54 years (range 16–83 years). Cytoreductive surgery was primary in 40% of cases. Surgical resection included bowel resection (48%), diaphragmatic peritoneal resection (25%) and splenectomy (15%). 89% of patients received a pelvic and para-aortic lymphadenectomy. Node involvement was noted in 48% of cases. No recurrence was seen in 56% of cases and the mean interval of recurrence was estimated at 21 months. Overall survival was estimated at 40 months (range 2–165 months). According to cox regression test, we found that survival is significantly correlated to age, menopausal status, lymph node status, number of positive lymph nodes and lymph node ratio (LNR) (p=0.009, p=0.004, p=0.001, p=0.002 and p=0.004 respectively). Patients with LNR ≤0.03 had a survival of 50 months vs. 27 months in patients with LNR >0.03. Mean survival was estimated at 51 months in patients with only one positive LN vs. 26 months in patients with more than one positive LN. Lymphadenectomy neither increased the postoperative complications nor the transfusion rate and was only associated with longer operative time (p=0.7, p=0.85 and p=0.000 respectively). No impact on survival was detected whether the patient benefited from an upfront surgery or an interval one post neoadjuvant chemotherapy: 36 months vs 30 months respectively, (p=0.39). Conclusion Huge efforts including extensive cytoreductive surgeries are being performed at institutions in developing countries in order to improve survival and lower recurrence in ovarian cancer patients. Disclosure Nothing to disclose.
Diagnosis of Thyroid Nodule with New Ultrasound Imaging Modalities.

Abstract Introduction: B-mode ultrasound (US) technology is an integral part of diagnosing and assessing risk stratification of thyroid nodules (TNs). The addition of shear wave elastography and th...
Removal of the Cyanotoxin Microcystin-LR from Drinking Water Using Granular Activated Carbon

Cyanotoxins, such as microcystin-LR (MC-LR), produced by harmful algae blooms are becoming a chronic issue drinking water utilities must manage. The removal of MC-LR by powdered activated carbon ha...
Solid waste management practices and their meanings in ecologically conscious households

This paper describes the household waste management practices of self-described sustainable households, focusing on the intentional actions the members of these households take to reduce environmen...
Advances in use of mouse models to study the renin-angiotensin system.

Abstract The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is a highly complex hormonal cascade that spans multiple organs and cell types to regulate solute and fluid balance along with cardiovascular function. Much of our current understanding of the functions of the RAS has emerged from a series of key studies in genetically-modified animals. Here, we review key findings from ground-breaking transgenic models, spanning decades of research into the RAS, with a focus on their use in studying blood pressure. We review the physiological importance of this regulatory system as evident through the examination of mouse models for several major RAS components: angiotensinogen, renin, ACE, ACE2, and the type 1 A angiotensin receptor. Both whole-animal and cell-specific knockout models have permitted critical RAS functions to be defined and demonstrate how redundancy and multiplicity within the RAS allow for compensatory adjustments to maintain homeostasis. Moreover, these models present exciting opportunities for continued discovery surrounding the role of the RAS in disease pathogenesis and treatment for cardiovascular disease and beyond.
Frontline Treatment for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia/Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma (CLL/SLL): Targeted Therapy vs. Chemoimmunotherapy.

The treatment options for chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma (CLL/SLL) have expanded significantly in the last few years, including the use of new classes of oral small molecular inhibitors targeting the B cell receptor signaling pathway or the apoptosis machinery. Targeted therapy with or without immunotherapy has quickly emerged as a new standard for frontline treatment of CLL/SLL, though the previous standard chemoimmunotherapy (CIT) remains a treatment option. In this review, we present data from key clinical trials to evaluate the benefits and risks associated with different frontline treatment approaches. We reviewed recently published and presented clinical trials on frontline CLL/SLL treatment, with particular focus on the comparison of CIT vs. targeted therapies, including inhibitors of Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) or of the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2. Various BTK inhibitors as continuous treatment with or without anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies have compared favorably to the conventional CITs in previously untreated CLL/SLL patients of various ages and comorbidities. Fixed duration treatment with the Bcl-2 inhibitor venetoclax combined with anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies also showed superiority in clinical outcomes compared to CIT. Subgroup analysis interestingly showed that IgHV-mutated CLL/SLL might still derive similar benefits from CIT. Ongoing clinical trials are investigating combined targeted therapies of venetoclax plus a BTK inhibitor to try to further improve the efficacy while limiting the duration of treatment. Targeted therapies are becoming the new standard of care for frontline treatment of CLL/SLL although conventional CIT remains an option group of fit patients with low risk features. Novel strategies are being studied using targeted therapy combinations to optimize the depth of response in a time-limited fashion.
The politics of redistribution in local governments: the effect of gender representation on welfare spending in California counties

This research explores the impact of gender representation at the state and local levels on redistributive choices. This research also examines whether female officeholders moderate the impact of the local economy and institution on welfare spending. Hypotheses are tested across 58 counties in California over ten years, between 2001 and 2010. According to the fixed effect models, women in state legislature had a positive effect on local welfare spending, while women on county boards had no significant effect. However, a positive moderating effect of women on county boards during economic hardship was found. Three categories of control variables include institutional factors, such as the introduction of Proposition 1A and county home rule; political factors, such as the political preference of each county’s residents and strength of non-profit organisations; and socio-economic factors, such as intergovernmental revenue, unemployment rate and demographics. Counties with more intergovernmental revenue and supporters of Democratic presidential candidates are likely to spend more on welfare services.
A Robust Hybrid Finite Time Parameter Estimator With Relaxed Persistence of Excitation Condition

In this paper, we consider the problem of estimating a constant (or piecewise constant) parameter of a linear regression model. Using a hybrid systems framework, a hybrid algorithm is proposed allowing the estimate to converge to the exact value of the unknown parameter in predetermined finite time. Interestingly, we show that for the case of a constant parameter, the convergence property of the hybrid algorithm holds while only requiring the regressor to be exciting on a finite interval. For the case of a piecewise constant parameter, the classical persistency of excitation condition is required to guarantee the convergence. Robustness of the proposed algorithm with respect to measurements noise is analysed. Finally, illustrative examples are provided showing the merits of the proposed approach.
Prostacyclin Therapy for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

Prostacyclins are the first class of agents that showed efficacy in the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) in a clinical trial and, for a long time, the only treatment specifically approved for this devastating disease. As new therapies have emerged for PAH in recent years, the class of prostacyclins has also evolved and several formulations of different prostacyclin analogs, using various routes of delivery, have been tested and shown to be efficacious in PAH. This chapter reviews the pharmacology of prostacyclins and the results of pivotal clinical trials testing various formulations. Lastly, it examines practical aspects of dosing, management of side effects, and expectations of treatment goals.
A Robust Procedure for Convergent Nonparametric Multivariate Metamodel Design

Fast-running metamodels (surrogates or response surfaces) that approximate multivariate input/output relationships of time-consuming CAE simulations facilitate effective design trade-offs and optimizations in the vehicle development process. While the cross-validated nonparametric metamodeling methods are capable of capturing the highly nonlinear input/output relationships, it is crucial to ensure the adequacy of the metamodel error estimates. Moreover, in order to circumvent the so-called curse-of-dimensionality in constructing any nonlinear multivariate metamodels from a realistic number of expensive simulations, it is necessary to reliably eliminate insignificant inputs and consequently reduce the metamodel prediction error by focusing on major contributors. This paper presents a robust data-adaptive nonparametric metamodeling procedure that combines a convergent variable screening process with a robust 2-level error assessment strategy to achieve better metamodel accuracy. A door seal gap example is presented to illustrate the effectiveness and efficiency of the procedure.
Na+ H+ exchange by brush border membrane vesicles of human ileal small intestine

Na+/H+ exchange was characterized in the ileum of human brush border membrane vesicles. We have used a well-validated technique for preparing ileal brush border membranes from human cadaveric small intestine. Sodium was transported into the intravesicular space as evident by an osmolality study, which showed negligible binding to the external surface of the vesicles. The presence of an outwardly directed pH gradient stimulated Na+ uptake compared with the no pH gradient condition. Maximal uptake occurred after 5 min with a threefold overshoot over equilibrium. The rate of Na+ uptake was dependent on the extent of the pH gradient generated across the vesicles. Amiloride at 10(-4) M concentration inhibited the initial rate of Na+ uptake by greater than 90% and prevented stimulation of Na+ uptake in the presence of an outwardly directed pH gradient. The imposition of negative membrane potential did not enhance Na+ uptake compared with voltage clamp condition under both pH gradient and no pH gradient conditions, indicating an electroneutral process. Kinetic analysis of the Na+/H+ exchanger at 5 s showed a maximum velocity of 23.2 +/- 0.3 nmol/mg protein.5 s and a Michaelis constant of 14.5 +/- 5.2 mM. These studies demonstrate the presence of a Na+/H+ exchanger in human ileal brush border membrane vesicles.
Modeling the Behavior of Corotating Interaction Region Driven Storms in Comparison with Coronal Mass Ejection Driven Storms

There are two types of geoeffective solar disturbances, single events like coronal mass ejections that pass Earth once, or structures like corotating interaction regions which corotate with the Sun and could pass Earth on successive rotations. We use our kinetic ring current-atmosphere interactions model (RAM) to simulate ring current evolution during two geomagnetic storms of similar strength representative of each solar origin, the 15 May 1997 and the 10 March 1998, and compare the mechanisms responsible for trapping particles and for causing their loss. A quiet time ring current distribution inferred from satellite data is used as initial conditions, and ring current intensification due to enhanced plasma inflow from the magnetotail and earthward transport and acceleration is considered. Using an electric potential model driven by interplanetary parameters, we find that the ring current injection calculated with RAM is in good agreement with Dst index during May 1997, however, it underestimates Dst during March 1998. Additional intensifications by radial diffusion during March 1998 reproduce better its long lasting recovery phase. The dominant ring current ion during both storms is H + , while O + and He + are minor constituents. The strongest electromagnetic ion cyclotron waves are generated in the postnoon local time sector and along the plasmapause; these waves cause ∼5% decrease of the total ring current energy by proton precipitation during May 1997. Charge exchange is the dominant loss process during the storm recovery phase; the net convective losses are larger than charge exchange losses only for few hours near Dst minima.
Role of Benthic Plants in Fertilized Estuary

A study to elucidate the productivity contribution of benthic macrophytes in a fertile estuary was undertaken. Methods for utilizing C\U14\N uptake as a productivity monitor of benthic plants are described. Both phytoplankton and macrophyte productivity determinations were made at various distances from a small sewage outfall, and the effect of nutrients on the phytoplankton and seaweeds was observed. It was also observed that the benthic flora was a better indicator of nutrient enrichment, because there was a uniform gradient of productivity stimulation away from the outfall. The phytoplankton showed erratic values at various distances from the outfall due to mixing in and out of the fertilized zone. It is proposed that a productivity model such as the Baule-Mitscherlich relationship can be used to predict the photosynthetic response of algae due to a combination of nutrients. This model will allow for the concept of multiple limiting nutrients in nature.
Periodicity and distribution properties of combined FCSR sequences

This is a study of some of the elementary statistical properties of the bitwise exclusive or of two maximum period feedback with carry shift register sequences. We obtain conditions under which the resulting sequences has the maximum possible period, and we obtain bounds on the variation in the distribution of blocks of a fixed length. This may lead to improved design of stream ciphers using FCSRs.
Anatomical coordinate systems for human body segments

An anatomically based coordinate system is a useful tool for standardizing the placement of instrumentation on segments of the human body or human surrogate. It is suggested that this system be based upon a fixed set of anatomical landmarks that are easily located by palpation and/or x-ray. A set of coordinate systems for the head, torso and extremities is proposed. Such systems will aid investigators in comparing data acquired at different laboratories involved in impact injury research. These systems can also be used for accurately locating the center of gravity of a body segment and for describing body motion in an impact environment. Language: en
Dexamethasone attenuates the embryotoxic effect of endometriotic peritoneal fluid in a murine model

Purpose The in vitro fertilization (IVF) pregnancy rate of women with advanced stage endometriosis is nearly half that of the general population, suggesting incomplete targeting of the pathophysiology underlying endometriosis-associated infertility. Compelling evidence highlights inflammation as the etiologic link between endometriosis and infertility and a potential target for adjunctive treatment. The objective of this study was to examine the effect of dexamethasone on murine embryos exposed to human endometriotic peritoneal fluid (PF) using the established murine embryo assay model.
Simplicity's virtue scorned. Precision comes to TIMI flow grading and the results are ...surprising.

Utilization of a simple method for the angiographic characterization of coronary flow after thrombolytic therapy for myocardial infarction has become a hallmark of research efforts in this field since its introduction by the TIMI (Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction) investigators in 1985.1 TIMI flow grades 0 (no flow), 1 (minimal flow), 2 (partial flow), or 3 (complete flow) are now an integral part of the unique vocabulary of cardiologists the world over. This flow characterization has the virtue of being as accessible as the nearest video monitor or cineangiographic viewer and can be obtained quickly, at no additional cost. TIMI flow measurements have appeared to be extremely useful as prognostic indicators of the long-term success or failure of thrombolysis,2 to risk-stratify patients,3 and to compare the efficacy of various thrombolytic regimens.4 Since large mortality trials are expensive and difficult to perform, the 90-minute TIMI flow grade often has been used as a surrogate end point. Early investigators subdivided patients into two groups: TIMI flow grades 0 and 1 at 90 minutes (an undesirable outcome) and TIMI flow grades 2 and 3 (a favorable outcome). More recent investigators have shown considerable differences in the clinical results achieved between TIMI flow grades 2 and 3. A retrospective analysis of four German multicenter thrombolytic trials by Vogt et al5 showed that only patients achieving TIMI flow grade 3 after thrombolysis fared better than TIMI grades 0 and 1. Similar outcomes were obtained by the TEAM-2 investigators, who found that only TIMI flow grade 3 resulted in an improved outcome after thrombolysis.6 Patients achieving TIMI grade 2 flow followed the same course as grades 0 and 1. Although widely used, the validity, reproducibility, and determinants of TIMI flow measurements have, unfortunately, received little attention. Most investigators, apparently convinced by …
The Halstead Category Test: A Fifty Year Perspective

The Category Test, a major part of the Halstead-Reitan Neuropsychological Battery, was first described in a 1943 article by Halstead and Settlage. This paper reviews the development of the test, the psychometric properties of the instrument, available administration and scoring methods, discusses various interpretative strategies, and the empirical support for the test's clinical validity. Recent developments are then reviewed, as well as what the authors see as the future potential for this instrument.