cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
In touch with robotics: neurosurgery for the future.

THE INTRODUCTION OF multiple front-end technologies during the past quarter century has generated an emerging futurism for the discipline of neurological surgery. Driven primarily by synergistic developments in science and engineering, neurosurgery has always managed to harness the potential of the latest technical developments. Robotics represents one such technology. Progress in development of this technology has resulted in new uses for robotic devices in our discipline, which are accompanied by new potential dangers and inherent risks. The recent surge in robot-assisted interventions in other disciplines suggests that this technology may be considered one of a spectrum of frontier technologies poised to fuel the development of neurosurgery and consolidate the era of minimalism. On a more practical level, if the introduction of robotics in neurosurgery proves beneficial, neurosurgeons will need to become facile with this technology and learn to harness its potential so that the best surgical results may be achieved in the least invasive manner. This article reviews the role of robotic technology in the context of neurosurgery.
A ratiometric threshold for determining presence of cancer during fluorescence-guided surgery.

Background and Objective Fluorescence-guided imaging to assist in identification of malignant margins has the potential to dramatically improve oncologic surgery. However, a standardized method for quantitative assessment of disease-specific fluorescence has not been investigated. Introduced here is a ratiometric threshold derived from mean fluorescent tissue intensity that can be used to semi-quantitatively delineate tumor from normal tissue. Methods Open-field and a closed-field imaging devices were used to quantify fluorescence in punch biopsy tissues sampled from primary tumors collected during a phase 1 trial evaluating the safety of cetuximab-IRDye800 in patients (n = 11) undergoing surgical intervention for head and neck cancer. Fluorescence ratios were calculated using mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) from punch biopsy normalized by MFI of patient-matched tissues. Ratios were compared to pathological assessment and a ratiometric threshold was established to predict presence of cancer. Results During open-field imaging using an intraoperative device, the threshold for muscle normalized tumor fluorescence was found to be 2.7, which produced a sensitivity of 90.5% and specificity of 78.6% for delineating disease tissue. The skin-normalized threshold generated greater sensitivity (92.9%) and specificity (81.0%). Conclusion Successful implementation of a semi-quantitative threshold can provide a scientific methodology for delineating disease from normal tissue during fluorescence-guided resection of cancer. J. Surg. Oncol. 2015 111:2–8. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Time-dependent properties of versamid cured epoxies†

Versamid cured-epoxy specimens were loaded in tension, compression, and flexure at different strain rates and temperatures to determine the yield stress and strain, and tangent, secant, and relaxation moduli. A torsion pendulum was used to measure the dynamic properties as a function of temperature and frequency. The time-temperature superposition principle was used to reduce this data to master curves. It was concluded that the time-temperature shift factors for secant moduli up to the yield point, for stress relaxation and for dynamic moduli were identical and were independent of the mode of loading. It was also shown that the presence of fillers or reinforcing agents likewise had no effect on the shift factors.
Minimum-drag shapes in magnetohydrodynamics

A necessary optimality condition for the minimum-drag shape for a non-magnetic solid body immersed in the uniform flow of an electrically conducting viscous incompressible fluid under the presence of a magnetic field is obtained. It is assumed that the flow and magnetic field are uniform and parallel at infinity, and that the body and fluid have the same magnetic permeability. The condition is derived based on the linearized magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) equations subject to a constraint on the body’s volume, and generalizes the existing optimality conditions for the minimum-drag shapes for the body in the Stokes and Oseen flows of a non-conducting fluid. It is shown that for any Hartmann number M , Reynolds number Re and magnetic Reynolds number Re m, the minimum-drag shapes are fore-and-aft symmetric and have conic vertices with an angle of 2 π /3. The minimum-drag shapes are represented in a function-series form, and the series coefficients are found iteratively with the derived optimality condition. At each iteration, the MHD problem is solved via the boundary integral equations obtained based on the Cauchy integral formula for generalized analytic functions. With respect to the equal-volume sphere, drag reduction as a function of the Cowling number S= M 2/( Re m Re ) is smallest at S=1. Also, in the considered examples, the drag values for the minimum-drag shapes and equal-volume minimum-drag spheroids are sufficiently close.
Two-Tier Load Balancing in OSPF Wireless Back-Hauls

High-speed wireless communication technology (e.g. WiMAX) makes it feasible and cost-effective to build wireless back-hauls for Internet access. Compared to wired counterparts, it is challenging to optimize the performance of wireless backhaul due to the dynamic nature of wireless channels. In this paper, we propose a two-tier optimization scheme for load balancing objective. We use linear programming techniques to find the optimal routing policy for load balancing of each source-destination traffic by setting an appropriate weight to each link. Since current OSPF routers only support discrete traffic splitting, we propose a greedy min-max congestion algorithm to find a shortest-path set in order to approximate the optimal routing policy within a certain bound. Due to the impact of dynamic channel conditions, we propose the second tier adaptation scheme which runs frequently enough to refine the routing policy to balance the overall traffic according to the channel condition. We conduct thorough theoretical analysis to show the correctness of our design and give the properties of our scheme. Our solution is also evaluated via simulations and the simulation results show that our work can effectively lower maximum congestion level of the network to a near-optimal value.
Haar measure on a locally compact quantum group

In the general theory of locally compact quantum groups, the notion of Haar measure (Haar weight) plays the most significant role. The aim of this paper is to carry out a careful analysis regarding Haar weight, in relation to general theory, for the specific non-compact quantum group .A;1/ constructed earlier by the author. In this way, one can show that .A;1/ is indeed a "(C-algebraic) locally compact quantum group" in the sense of the recently developed definition given by Kustermans and Vaes. Attention will be given to pointing out the relationship between the original construction (obtained by deformation quantization) and the structure maps suggested by general theory.
Investigating potential biases in observed and modeled metrics of aerosol-cloud-precipitation interactions

Abstract. This study utilizes large eddy simulation, aircraft measurements, and satellite observations to identify factors that bias the absolute magnitude of metrics of aerosol-cloud-precipitation interactions for warm clouds. The metrics considered are precipitation susceptibility S o , which examines rain rate sensitivity to changes in drop number, and a cloud-precipitation metric, χ, which relates changes in rain rate to those in drop size. While wide ranges in rain rate exist at fixed cloud drop concentration for different cloud liquid water amounts, χ and S o are shown to be relatively insensitive to the growth phase of the cloud for large datasets that include data representing the full spectrum of cloud lifetime. Spatial resolution of measurements is shown to influence the liquid water path-dependent behavior of S o and χ. Other factors of importance are the choice of the minimum rain rate threshold, and how to quantify rain rate, drop size, and the cloud condensation nucleus proxy. Finally, low biases in retrieved aerosol amounts owing to wet scavenging and high biases associated with above-cloud aerosol layers should be accounted for. The paper explores the impact of these effects for model, satellite, and aircraft data.
Decomposing the Effect of Medicaid on Emergency Department Use

Rationale: The uninsured are often assumed to be more likely than the insured to use the Emergency Department (ED). Recent research suggests that Medicaid recipients are twice as likely as the uninsured or privately insured to have an ED visit. Little research has explored reasons for the discrepancies in visits between Medicaid recipients and the uninsured. Objectives: This paper seeks to examine the effect of observable characteristics such as demographics, socioeconomic status, access and attitudes towards health insurance on ED utilization, as well as the effects of behavioral differences between the two populations. Methodology: Using 2004 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS) data, we apply nonlinear Blinder-Oaxaca decomposition analysis (Fairlie 2005) to analyze ED utilization of two subgroups: individuals who were covered by Medicaid for the entire year and individuals who were uninsured for the entire year. This analysis allows researchers to quantify the effect that differences in observables between the groups have on the differences in ED utilization, as well as examine the differences in behavior between the groups that might affect the disparity in utilization. Results: 26.5 percent of individuals age 19-64 who were enrolled in Medicaid for all of 2004 had an ED visit, while 10 percent of those who were uninsured the entire year had an ED visit. Of the 16 point difference in likelihood of visit between the two groups, 10 percentage points can be explained by differences in observable characteristics. The remaining six points are thus attributable to unobservable characteristics. Such characteristics include the low or no co-pays required upon ED visit, limited availability to providers willing to see Medicaid patients outside of the ED, and other behavioral differences. The contributions of individual effects of the observables on differences in ED use are also decomposed. There does not appear to be a major observable characteristic accountable for the differences across subgroups for the propensity to use the ED. Conclusions: Medicaid recipients are more likely to have an ED visit than those who are uninsured all year. Decomposition analysis results suggest that differences in observable characteristics or endowments between the two groups explain about sixty-five percent of the disparity in visits, thus the remaining difference is explained by behavioral differences in the subgroups.
Leukocyte count predicts outcome after ischemic stroke: the Northern Manhattan Stroke Study.

Leukocyte counts predict incident cardiovascular disease, but little data are available on the relationship of leukocyte count to outcome after ischemic stroke. We hypothesized that leukocyte count at the time of incident ischemic stroke is associated with prognosis. Patients with first ischemic stroke were prospectively followed for 5 years for the occurrence of recurrent stroke, myocardial infarction (MI), or death. Cox proportional hazard models were constructed to estimate hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the effect of leukocyte count on outcomes after adjusting for other risk factors. Ischemic stroke patients (n = 655) were evaluated (mean age, 69.7 ± 12.7 years; 45% men; 51% Hispanic, 28% black, and 19% white). Seventy percent of samples were drawn within 24 hours of stroke. Mean leukocyte count was 9.1 ± 4.7 × 10 9 /L. Leukocyte count was a significant independent predictor of the 30-day risk of recurrent stroke, MI, or death after adjusting for age, sex, race/ethnicity, other risk factors, and stroke severity (adjusted hazard ratio per unit increase in leukocyte count, 1.07; 95% CI, 1.00 to 1.13). Leukocyte count was also a significant independent predictor of outcome events over 5 years (adjusted hazard ratio per unit increase in leukocyte count, 1.04; 95% CI, 1.00 to 1.07). Our findings indicate that elevated leukocyte count at the time of ischemic stroke predicts future recurrent stroke, MI, or death. Acute infectious complications of stroke or underlying inflammation could account for this association.
Moving Beyond the Linear Regression Model: Advantages of the Quantile Regression Model

Heavy-tailed distributions occur often in empirical settings, making it difficult for management scholars to use linear regression models (LRMs) to investigate the nuanced relationships between dependent and predictor variables. Both frequentist and Bayesian quantile regression models (QRMs) are alternative techniques that can help management scholars overcome the hurdles associated with using LRMs. This study compares LRMs and QRMs and shows how the frequentist and Bayesian QRM can open up doors for management scholars to develop and test theory in novel and informative ways. In introducing Bayesian estimation, it also shows how Bayesian quantile regression can achieve what existing Bayesian LRM and frequentist QRM techniques cannot. Following this exploration, this paper explains how management researchers can systematically apply QRMs in two concrete empirical settings. The first example shows that organizational behavior and human resource scholars can apply QRMs to study questions related to gender i...
Role of extracellular histidines in agonist sensitivity of the rat P2X4 receptor.

Abstract The pharmacological property that most distinguishes rat P2X 4 receptors from other P2X receptors is their insensitivity to the purinoceptor antagonists, suramin and pyridoxal-phosphate-6-azophenyl-2′,4′-disulphonic acid (PPADS). The molecular basis of this insensitivity is not known. Here, we investigated the possibility that histidine residues in the extracellular loop of P2X 4 receptors may be involved in the antagonist sensitivity of these receptors. We found that histidine mutation H241A in the rat P2X 4 receptor produced receptors that are sensitive to suramin and PPADS. In contrast, mutation H140A or H286A did not significantly alter antagonist sensitivity. In addition, mutation H241A in the human P2X 4 receptor significantly increased antagonist sensitivity. The results suggest that histidine 241 of P2X 4 receptors is involved in regulating the antagonist sensitivity of these receptors.
PWB thermal modeling computer tools at Texas Instruments

Printed wiring board (PWB) thermal modeling tools developed at Texas Instruments are described. These general programs help automate the processes of: finite-difference-model generation for PWBs and other rectangular, layered structures; definition of heat inputs to a thermal model of a PWB due to electronic components; and calculation of component junction temperatures for devices located on a modeled PWB. The features of the programs are described and their usefulness in the design environment is explained. The direction of current and anticipated future development is addressed. >
Opto-mechanical oscillations in a double-disk microcavity

We demonstrate giant opto-mechanical oscillations in a silica double-disk where the optical gradient force creates dramatic dynamic back action in comparison to radiation pressure.
Myocyte performance during evolution of myocardial infarction in rats: effects of propionyl-L-carnitine.

To determine whether alterations in the mechanical properties and calcium transients of myocytes are important factors in the evolution of the postinfarcted heart, these physiological parameters we...
Cardiac rehabilitation referral: An information gap

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR), consisting of exercise and diet modifications, has been proven to promote a healthy lifestyle that can extend life, particularly for survivors of cardiovascular events. Nonetheless, there is a long-standing concern regarding the underutilization of CR in general and especially by women. The American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation recommends all eligible persons be referred and participate in a CR program. However, participation and adherence to CR remain low. There appears to be a CR referral information gap in many instances, and thus focus groups that were conducted investigated four main research questions. First, what did CR mean for these former CR participants? Second, how did participants find out about CR? Third, what kind of referral information was received? Last, what information should prospective cardiac rehabilitation program participants receive? The poster will present the background and motivation for the study, preliminary results, and discussion of these results.
Tax-Exempt Corruption: Exploring Elements of Institutional Corruption in Bond Finance

This paper will apply the theory of institutional corruption to the world of private-activity bonds, which offer private entities access to tax-exempt borrowing, which generally provides lower interest rates. The bonds are issued by a public authority that requires the funds be used for a purpose that serves the public benefit. There is a long history of corruption in the bond market, the latest development being a 2011 Department of Justice investigation that exposed rampant bid-rigging by Bank of America, J.P. Morgan Chase and others. This paper will focus on bonds used for affordable housing, and explore whether the theory of institutional corruption might apply to either housing bonds or tax-exempt bonds writ large. Readers with real estate backgrounds should take care to note this paper, and institutional corruption theory, allege no impropriety whatsoever.
Analysis of a proposed mechanism for carbon-neutral growth in international aviation

Abstract In October 2013, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) announced that it would put in place a market-based mechanism to cap net greenhouse gas emissions from international civil aviation at 2020 levels. This paper analyses the obligations that would be placed on real airlines under an initial draft “Strawman” proposal that was originally formulated as a starting point for discussions within ICAO, and the extent to which such a proposal would succeed in keeping emissions at or below the desired level. The provisions of the ICAO proposal were then applied to more than 100 existing airlines. In order to protect commercial sensitivities, we used hierarchical cluster analysis to identify groups of different types of airlines. We report the results for these groups rather than for individual airlines. While ambiguities in the Strawman proposal complicated the analysis, we found that, depending on their size and rate of growth, airlines will be required to offset very different proportions of their emissions from international flights. A system of de minimis exemptions, as currently proposed, would benefit some rich countries as well as poor ones. Targeting such exemptions more narrowly would raise practical difficulties, which we describe. We conclude by recommending that ICAO design and implement a much simpler system; and propose one alternative.
Effects of gender role self-discrepancies and self-perceived attractiveness on social anxiety for women across social situations

ABSTRACTBackground and objectives: Psychosocial factors, such as gender role norms, may impact how social anxiety disorder (SAD) is experienced and expressed in different social contexts for women. However to date, these factors have not been examined via experimental methodology. Design: This was a cross-sectional, quasi-experimental controlled study. Methods: The current study included 48 highly socially anxious (HSA) women (70.9% meeting criteria for SAD) and examined the relationships among psychosocial factors (i.e. gender role self-discrepancies and self-perceived physical attractiveness), self-perceived social performance, and state anxiety, across two in vivo social tasks (i.e. conversation and opinion speech). Results: On average, participants reported belief that they ought to be less feminine for the speech task and more masculine for both the conversation and speech tasks. Also, for the conversation task, only lower self-rated attractiveness predicted poorer self-perceived performance and grea...
Chemical Process Engineering Principles of Combustion Turbines

The lower prices and wider availability of natural gas make it important that chemical engineers become familiar with natural-gas processing and applications. One important use is the generation of power by burning natural gas in a combustion turbine. Traditional systems use air for the oxygen source, but the use of high-purity oxygen with stack gas recirculation is an alternative when sequestration of carbon dioxide is desired. The limiting design parameter in a combustion-turbine system is a maximum turbine inlet (combustor) temperature because of metallurgical constraints. In air-fired systems, enough air must be used to keep below this limit. In oxygen-fired systems, enough CO2-rich stack gas must be recycled to keep below this limit. The purpose of this paper is to review the chemical engineering process design principles involved in setting up combustion-turbine systems.
A Revision of the Genus Cerenopus (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae)

The North American genus Cerenopus is revised, and data is presented supporting the establishment of 2 subgenera : (1) Cerenopus , containing C. concolor LeConte, and (2) Longicerenopus , containing C. angustatus Horn, C. aterrimus Horn, C. hermanus n.sp., and C. punctatus n.sp. The species cribratus (LeConte) and costulatus (Horn), are removed from Cerenopus and transferred to the genus Argoporis . Descriptions, a key to subgenera and species, and distribution data are presented.
A Decade of Sino-Russian Diplomacy

The diplomatic relations between China and Russia in the past decade present a tangle of converging factors among which the Chinese revolution, the World War, and the Russian revolution play a great part. They are, however, only a phase in the larger process of imperial dissolution and national revival which has encompassed both the Russian and Chinese states and remarkably transformed them within the space of a generation. It is in relation to the forces unleashed by the disintegration of the Romanov and Manchu empires that the decade's changes in diplomatic policy must be viewed. The most significant factor underlying the reorientation of Russian and Chinese foreign policy was the abolition of the monarchy in each country; for, with the fall of the imperial houses, came the beginnings of political and administrative disintegration, the resurgence of local nationalism, and the loosing of the centrifugal forces which the defunct dynasties had held in check. It is not our problem here to trace the constitutional consequences of such a vacancy of power in either domain, but to note the salient fact that it was a difficult, if not impossible, task immediately to create an efficient substitute authority for the dead and departed emperors, and that, in view of that difficulty, provincial separatism was for a time allowed to gain such headway as to constitute a serious menace to the national integrity of both the dissolving empires.
The Inactivation of Hepatitis a Virus and other Model Viruses by UV Irradiation

Ultraviolet light is an attractive alternative to chemical disinfection of water, but little is known about its ability to inactivate important waterborne pathogens such as hepatitis A virus. Therefore, the sensitivity of HAV strain HM-175, coxsackievirus type B-5, rotavirus strain SA-11, and bacteriophages MS2 and o X174 to ultraviolet radiation of 254 nm wavelength in phosphate buffered water was determined. Purified stocks of the viruses were combined and exposed to collimated UV radiation in a stirred reactor for a total dose of up to 40 mW sec/cm2. Virus survival kinetics were determined from samples removed at dose intervals. The 4 log,10 (99.99%) inactivation doses for HAV, CB5, SA-11 and o X174 were 16, 29, 42 and 9 mW sec/cm2, respectively. MS2 exhibited the greatest resistance in buffered water with less than a 1 log10 reduction observed after exposure to 25 mW sec/cm2. A 15 mW sec/cm2 exposure induced a 7 log10 reduction of o X174, while inactivation of HAV, CB5 and SAll was intermediate, with at least 3 log10 reductions occurring after a 20 mW sec/cm2 exposure. The results of these experiments indicate that UV radiation can effectively inactivate viruses of public health concern in drinking water.
Protective effect of calpain inhibitor against ischemia-reperfusion injury of extracorporeal rat hearts

Objective To investigate the cardioprotective effects of calpain inhibitor(ALLN) against ischemia-reperfusion(I/R) injury of extracorporeal rat hearts and its mechanism.Methods Forty five male SD rats were randomly separated into 5 groups: control group,I/R group,ALLN+control group,ALLN+I/R group and DMSO+I/R group.Coronary flux(CF)and the value of LDH were detected,respectively.The fluorescence intensity reflecting the activity of calpain was detected by fluorospectrophotometer.The calpain protein expression levels were measured by Western blotting.The fluorescence intensity of intracellular Ca2+and rate of apoptosis were detected by flow cytometer,and then apoptotic indexes were calculated.Results Comparing with the I/R group,in ALLN+I/R group,CF was significantly increased(P0.01).The value of LDH,the protein content and activity of calpain,the fluorescence intensity of intracellular Ca2+and the index of apoptosis were significantly decreasing(P0.01).Conclusion ALLN has a significant protective effect on I/R injury of extracorporeal hearts by preventing increase in activity of calpain,which may be related with attenuating cell trauma and lessening the intracellular calcium overload.
An Ecological Study of Social Fragmentation, Socioeconomic Deprivation, and Suicide in Rural China: 2008-2010

China accounts for a large number of suicides worldwide, and most occur in rural areas. Suicide research in China has primarily focused on individual-level risk factors, few have studied the influence of neighborhood contexts. This ecological study examines the association of suicide rates with social fragmentation and socioeconomic deprivation in Chinese rural villages. Data from the community survey of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study were analyzed using negative binomial regression. A total of 307 rural villages were included. The community survey collected data about the villages from local leaders. Suicide counts were measured by the leaders' report of the number of suicide deaths in the villages. Social fragmentation was indicated by out-migration, in-migration and ethnic diversity; socioeconomic deprivation was indicated by physical infrastructure, illiteracy rates and public transit accessibility. The results show that higher incidence rates of suicide occurred in villages with high proportions of out-migration (vs. low), inflow of migrants (vs. no migrants), mixes of Han and ethnic minority residents (vs. Han only), high degrees of infrastructure deficiency (vs. low) and poor access to public transportation (vs. excellent). Villages with higher percentages of older adults also had higher suicide rates. This is one of the first studies to examine the association between neighborhood contexts and suicide in China. The findings have implications for suicide prevention in rural China.
Genetic and Developmental Aspects of lgE

The main purpose of this review is to discuss the genetic control of IgE levels and lgE antibody production in humans, and the way in which IgE levelschange with age. The relation between IgE and atopy in infants and young children is also examined.
Evolving concepts in extra-articular hip pathology

The ISHA Annual Meeting in Rio de Janeiro 2014 provided fresh insight into extra-articular hip pathology and evolving treatments. The Instructional Course Lecture -2 was given the opportunity to present the lecture series in a published format in the Journal for Hip Preservation Surgery. Extra-articular procedures involve the osseous, capsulolabral, musculotendinous, neurovascular and kinematic chain requiring a comprehensive physical examination, diagnostic and treatment strategies. One component can affect each of the others with ascending or descending pathology. This complexity of pathology requires a systematic examination, radiographic interpretation and a thoughtful multistructured treatment program. The extra-articular pathology mentioned within this special series provides an endoscopic approach to more commonly perform open procedures. Endoscopic or arthroscopic diagnosis allows for improved visualized assessment of the complete anatomy along with the complexity of the multistructured presenting pathology. The following series addresses osseous endoscopic techniques including concepts of endoscopic-assisted Periacetabular Osteotomy, femoral derotational osteotomy, hamstring repair, deep gluteal space and intrapelvic sciatic entrapment. As the field of endoscopy and arthroscopy around the hip evolves, it is important to recognize the advancements and understanding of the anatomy, biomechanics, clinical examination and diagnostic strategies and treatment of each structure around the hip.
Hospital delivery volume, severe obstetrical morbidity, and failure to rescue.

Background In the setting of persistently high risk for maternal death and severe obstetric morbidity, little is known about the relationship between hospital delivery volume and maternal outcomes. Objective The objectives of this analysis were (1) to determine maternal risk for severe morbidity during delivery hospitalizations by hospital delivery volume in the United States and (2) to characterize, by hospital volume, the risk for death in the setting of severe obstetric morbidity, a concept known as failure to rescue. Study Design This cohort study evaluated 50,433,539 delivery hospitalizations across the United States from 1998–2010. The main outcome measures were (1) severe morbidity that was defined as a composite of any 1 of 15 diagnoses that are representative of acute organ injury and critical illness and (2) failure to rescue that was defined as death in the setting of severe morbidity. Results The prevalence of severe morbidity rose from 471.2–751.5 cases per 100,000 deliveries from 1998–2010, which was an increase of 59.5%. Failure to rescue was highest in 1998 (1.5%), decreased to 0.6% in 2007, and rose to 0.9% in 2010. In models that were adjusted for comorbid risk and hospital factors, both low and high annualized delivery volume were associated with increased risk for failure to rescue and severe morbidity. However, the relative importance of hospital volume for both outcomes compared with other factors was relatively small. Conclusion Although low-and high-delivery volume are associated with increased risk for both failure to rescue and severe maternal morbidity, other factors, in particular characteristics of individual centers, may be more important in the determination of outcomes.
Animating and exploring phylogenies with fibre plots

Despite the progress that has been made in many other aspects of data visualisation, phylogenies are still represented in much the same way as they first were by Darwin. In this brief essay, I give a short review of what I consider to be some recent major advances, and outline a new kind of phylogenetic visualisation. This new graphic, the fibre plot, uses the metaphor of sections through a tree to describe change in a phylogeny. I suggest it is a useful tool in gaining an rapid overview of the timing and scale of diversification in large phylogenies.
Organic layer formation and sorption of U(vi) on acetamide diethylphosphonate-functionalized mesoporous silica.

Acetamide diethylphosphonate (AcPhos)-functionalized silica has been shown to have a high affinity for U(VI) in pH 2–3 nitric acid. Previous work with AcPhos-functionalized silica has focused on actinide and lanthanide extraction under various conditions, but has shown poor reproducibility in the functionalization process. For this work, four AcPhos-functionalized SBA-15 materials were synthesized and evaluated based on their U(VI) sorption capacity and their stability in nitric acid. Materials synthesized using pyridine as a basic catalyst were shown to form a greater fraction of polymeric structures at the silica surface, which correlated with higher structural integrity upon contact with acidic solutions. Single-pulse 31P and 1H NMR spectra of these materials show evidence of phosphonic acid groups, as well as hydrogen-bonding interactions either between ligands or with the silica surface. Additionally, these materials were found to have significantly higher U(VI) sorption capacities and Keq values than the materials synthesized without pyridine, most likely due to the ion-exchange properties of the phosphonic acid groups. The 31P–31P DQ-DRENAR NMR technique was used to compare the average strength of dipolar coupling interactions between phosphorus atoms for the four materials. Because the strength of dipolar coupling interactions depends on the number and proximity of neighboring spins, this technique provides information about the average density of ligands on the surface. The conventional functionalization procedure yielded materials with the lowest average surface ligand density, while those using extended reaction times and the pyridine base catalyst yielded materials with higher surface ligand densities.
The validity of cause of death coding within the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Registry

6544 Background: Disease-specific survival (DSS) analysis within large cancer registries is more informative than other methods of survival analysis but requires accurate information regarding the ...
Multi-element, multi-frequency lens transformations enabled by optical wavefront matching

Transformation optics (TO) has brought forth a renewed interest in gradient-index (GRIN) optics due to its ability to allow arbitrary geometries to electromagnetically mimic the behaviors of more conventional structures via a spatially-inhomogeneous refractive index profile. While quasi-conformal transformation optics (qTO) has seen great success at microwave and RF frequencies, it is inherently limited to single frequency transformations: an immediate shortcoming for designs in the optical regime. Also, achieving desirable solutions from multi-element transformations is difficult for qTO. To overcome these challenges, a multi-component multi-frequency lens transformation procedure based on the wavefront-matching (WFM) design methodology is presented. Finally, the procedure is applied to a number of optical systems to advocate its efficacy as a more general transformation method.
Reader leveled RFID localization approaches and their simulation

We propose two RFID localization approaches to ascertain the estimated location of a target that has a passive tag affixed. The antennas of the RFID readers are installed on the ceiling of an indoor environment as this setup will facilitate the daily routine operations of warehouses, retail stores and libraries. The reader leveled nearest-neighbor and multilateration schemes take advantage of detectable counts of target scan, applying different power levels on each scan. The technique is highly resistant to the noise and interference of other radio waves. The outcomes of the simulation demonstrate remarkably accurate performance.
Essential Landscape: An Environmental History of Chaparral Ecosystems in California

Although chaparral is the most extensive, native plant habitat in California, it is not well understood in terms of the biodiversity it contains and the ecosystem services it provides. This was not always the case, and this chapter will explore what those inhabiting this region—native people, Spanish missionaries, US resource extractors, and conservationists—have known about this dynamic habitat, how their knowledge has changed over time, and why. Drawing on the insights of anthropology, archaeology, history and cultural studies, the chapter documents the evolving and reciprocal relationship between humans and the chaparral ecosystems that for millennia have sustained them in California.
Stylus/tablet user input device for MRI heart wall segmentation: efficiency and ease of use.

To determine whether use of a stylus user input device (UID) would be superior to a mouse for CMR segmentation. Twenty-five consecutive clinical cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) examinations were selected. Image analysis was independently performed by four observers. Manual tracing of left (LV) and right (RV) ventricular endocardial contours was performed twice in 10 randomly assigned sessions, each session using only one UID. Segmentation time and the ventricular function variables were recorded. The mean segmentation time and time reduction were calculated for each method. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) and Bland-Altman plots of function variables were used to assess intra- and interobserver variability and agreement between methods. Observers completed a Likert-type questionnaire. The mean segmentation time (in seconds) was significantly less with the stylus compared to the mouse, averaging 206±108 versus 308±125 (p<0.001) and 225±140 versus 353±162 (p<0.001) for LV and RV segmentation, respectively. The intra- and interobserver agreement rates were excellent (ICC≥0.75) regardless of the UID. There was an excellent agreement between measurements derived from manual segmentation using different UIDs (ICC≥0.75), with few exceptions. Observers preferred the stylus. The study shows a significant reduction in segmentation time using the stylus, a subjective preference, and excellent agreement between the methods. • Using a stylus for MRI ventricular segmentation is faster compared to mouse • A stylus is easier to use and results in less fatigue • There is excellent agreement between stylus and mouse UIDs
Design of two-dimensional electron gas systems via polarization discontinuity from large-scale first-principles calculations

A two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG) formed at the interface between two insulating perovskite oxides has provided a versatile playground to explore emergent interfacial electronic and magnetic properties. Here we show that by using high-throughput first-principles calculations and a group of effective materials descriptors based on bulk perovskite materials, we are able to rapidly design more than 300 candidate 2DEG systems based on nonpolar/nonpolar perovskite heterostructures (HS). These HS are built from 34 nonpolar piezoelectric perovskite oxides that can show polarization behavior under epitaxial compressive strain and can be further divided into six groups of materials based on B-site elements: Ti-, Zr-, Hf-, Si-, Ge-, and Sn-based oxides. By taking one compound as the substrate from each group and building all the possible HS with an appropriate lattice mismatch 0 < f < 6%, we have carried out comprehensive first-principles calculations to verify the formation of the 2DEG in these HS. It has been found that a stable polarization and interfacial 2DEG exist in most of the selected HS. This work demonstrates an efficient way to perform high-throughput design of perovskite-oxide-based functional materials.
A wideband complementary noise and distortion canceling LNA for high-frequency ultrasound imaging applications

This paper presents a simultaneous noise and distortion canceling low noise amplifier (LNA) for high-frequency ultrasound imaging applications. A feedforward noise canceling technique is developed to achieve both low noise figure (NF) and good input impedance matching (S11). The LNA also exploits the complementary characteristics of NMOS and PMOS transistors to cancel the second-order harmonic for linearity enhancement. The proposed LNA is designed in a 0.18 μm CMOS technology and exhibits a 6 dB NF and a 10 dB total harmonic distortion (THD) improvements. The LNA is specifically designed for 30–120 MHz high-frequency ultrasound transducers. At 30 MHz, the LNA achieves a NF of 2.1 dB, a voltage gain of 19 dB, and a THD of 60 dB under 1 mV peak-to-peak input. The core circuit draws 10 mA current from a 1.8 V supply.
The Council on Foreign Relations and the Grand Area: Case Studies on the Origins of the IMF and the Vietnam War

This article examines the role of corporate elites within the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) in establishing the framework for the IMF and the rationale for the Vietnam War. Drawing on the CFR's WarPeace Study Groups, established in World War II as a conduit between corporate elites and the U.S. government, the author first analyzes the role of corporate power networks in grand area planning. He shows that such planning provided a framework for postwar foreign and economic policymaking. He then documents the relationship between corporate grand area planning and the creation of the IMF. The analysis concludes with an examination of the relationship between grand area planning and the Vietnam War.
The Main Results

This chapter contains our main results. In Sect. 5.1 we relate the 0-dimension stack \( {CM_\Sigma}(\alpha)\,{\rm to \,the}\,{\alpha^{th}} \)-Fourier coefficient of the central derivative of an incoherent 4 Hilbert modular Eisenstein series. Here \( {\alpha} \) is a totally positive element of F#. The 5 proof of this result is contained in Sect. 5.2, with the exception of certain local 6 calculations (which are, in fact, the technical core of the proof) postponed until 7 Chap. 6.
Identification and Isolation of Clones by Immunological Screening of cDNA Expression Libraries

Various methods are available for the construction of essentially complete cDNA or genomic libraries from many sources. Since such libraries contain thousands of members, a major difficulty is the identification of clones of interest. Final identifications are usually made by sequencing the DNA, by using the DNA to select a specific mRNA for in vitro translation, or both. Such assays are not usually suited for screening large libraries for individual clones and steps are taken to enrich for the clones of interest. The most commonly used procedures rely on cDNA hybridization probes made from an mRNA preparation that contains high levels of the sequence of interest. Variations of this general approach include the physical fractionation of the mRNA by sedimentation, gel electrophoresis, or immunoprecipitation (or absorption) of polysomes. Alternatively, if part or all of the amino acid sequence of a protein is known, it is possible to synthesize specific oligonucleotides for use either as hybridization probes themselves or as primers for the enzymatic synthesis of cDNA.
Value of Combined Hemodynamic and Radiocardiographic Studies in Acute Respiratory Failure

Hemodynamic abnormalities may result from or precipitate acute respiratory failure from a variety of etiologies. Thus, the clinical assessment of associated left ventricular dysfunction or pulmonary embolism may be difficult, particularly with severe underlying chronic obstructive lung disease, extensive pneumonia, or the adult respiratory-distress syndrome. In these situations rales and rhonchi are common and may obscure heart sounds. ECG abnormalities may be nonspecific, and portable chest radiographs taken in the anteroposterior view make interpretation of subtle changes in cardiac silhouette and lung parenchyma difficult.
Anti-Stokes laser refrigeration of a nanoscale semiconductor gain medium

Laser radiation has conventionally been used to cool the mechanical amplitude of oscillators with approaches based on electronic feedback and cavity-induced radiation pressure. However, the direct laser refrigeration of an optomechanical oscillator has remained a challenge. Optically refrigerating the lattice of an optical resonator promises to impact several fields including the development of radiation balanced lasers. In this work, we demonstrate laser refrigeration of a hydrothermally synthesized 10 % ytterbium (Yb3+) doped lithium yttrium fluoride (YLF) crystal placed at the free end of a cadmium sulfide nanoribbon (CdSNR). An incident 1020 nm laser is used to cool the crystal and the back-scattered up-converted Yb3+ emission is analyzed using two-band differential luminescence thermometry (DLT) to monitor the temperature of the YLF crystal. A temperature drop of 23.6 K below room temperature is recorded at a focused laser power of 40.1 mW. Lastly, a combination of finite element wave optics and heat transfer calculations were used to estimate the imaginary part of the refractive index of the YLF crystal.
Enabling Smallholder Prosperity through Commercialization and Diversification

As India becomes the world’s most populous nation, the two central concerns for food security is how to increase and diversify food production. Although this is an opportunity for income growth for small farms, rectifying disadvantages owing to low economies of scale and poor access to capital, technology, and mechanization is critical to leverage it. In this chapter, we look at the scope of institutional interventions such as aggregation models in the form of cooperatives and farmer producer organizations in addressing the scale and access disadvantages. We also touch upon the need to revisit the issue of land reforms to enable land tenure systems to improve access to land and access to mechanization and credit.
Cervical Spine Injuries in Athletes

Cervical spine fractures in athletes can be devastating injuries, and patients with underlying stenosis are at an increased risk of a spinal cord injury. Early recognition and treatment are paramount in these injuries. The number of catastrophic injuries has decreased over the years with better coaching, equipment, and player techniques. These injuries can present with an array of symptoms and radiographic findings, but the key components of stability and decompressed neural elements remain critical in the development of a diagnosis and treatment. Return to play after a cervical spine injury is determined on a player-by-player basis. This decision is dependent upon the nature of the injury, the patient’s underlying spinal anatomy, the patient’s neurological symptoms and examination, and the effects of surgical or nonsurgical treatment on the stability and mobility of the spine.