cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Experimental and finite element predictions of residual stresses due to orthogonal metal cutting

The development and implementation of a finite element method for the simulation of plane-strain orthogonal metal cutting processes with continuous chip formation are presented. Experimental procedures for orthogonal metal cutting and measurement of distributions of residual stresses using the X-ray diffraction method are also presented. A four-node, eight degree-of-freedom, quadrilateral plane-strain finite element is formulated. The effects of elasticity, viscoplasticity, temperature, friction, strain-rate and large strain are included in this formulation. Some special techniques for the finite element simulation of metal cutting processes, such as element separation and mesh rezoning, are used to enhance the computational accuracy and efficiency. The orthogonal metal cutting experiment is set-up on a shaper, and the distributions of residual stresses of the annealed 1020 carbon steel sample are measured using the X-ray diffraction method. Under nominally the same cutting conditions as the experiment, the cutting processes are also simulated using the finite element method. Comparisons of the experimental and finite element results for the distributions of residual stresses indicate a fairly reasonable level of agreement. The versatility of the present finite element simulation method allows for displaying detailed results and knowledge generated by orthogonal metal cutting processes, such as the distribution of temperature, yield stress, effective stress, plastic strain, plastic strain-rate, hydrostatic stress, deformed configuration, etc. Such knowledge is useful to provide physical insights into the process as well as to better design the process for machining parts with improved performance.
Surgery for sleep-disordered breathing in female patients

This article focuses on the female patient with sleep-disordered breathing. Sleep-disordered breathing has historically been considered a disease seen primarily in men, but it has become increasingly recognized in women. Recent studies of the general population suggest that almost one third of all obstructive sleep apnea syndrome cases exist in women. A review of current information focusing on the epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of the female patient is presented.
Modifying Cancer Risk Factors: The Gene-Environment Interaction

Objectives To examine the concept of risk modification in the context of cancer prevention. Data Sources Published articles and research studies on genetic and environmental factors. Conclusion How the environment is defined frames how the gene-environment interaction is studied and understood. The development of a workable model for risk modification flexible enough to be individualized for a patient is an important step in making primary prevention the goal in cancer care. Implications for Nursing Practice Nurses working in cancer care are well placed to advise patients on risk-management strategies, and to increase public awareness of the interdependence of environment and genomics on cancer risk.
Quantitative phase analysis of clay minerals by X-ray powder diffraction using artificial neural networks. I. Feasibility study with calculated powder patterns

An artificial neural network with back-propagation architecture has been applied to the problem of the quantitative analysis of simulated clay mixtures from synthetic X-ray diffraction (XRD) data. A "clay characterization function" (CCF) has been devised that combines information from two clay XRD peaks into a single peak that simplifies the problem which the neural network must solve. In addition, it eliminates peaks from non-layered minerals. A neural network with 17 neurons in the hidden layer and log-sigmoid transfer functions in each layer is sufficiently successful at predicting the compositions of binary and ternary mixtures of the three model clays to demonstrate the potential of the method. Moreover, training is accomplished in relatively short times using a Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm. Although the problem "solved" by this neural network is rather simple, the approach has the potential for the much more complex problem of the quantitative phase analysis of mixtures of real clay minerals. In this study, only the CCF peak heights have been used, but the positions and peak widths also contain important information. It may be practical to include as variables not only the concentrations of clay phases, but also compositional information to which XRD is sensitive.
Collaborative information behavior: the case of an interdisciplinary charrette

We present early findings from an ethnographic study of the information behaviors of nine groups with three to eight members each, conducted during a ten day interdisciplinary design Charrette (period of intense, collaborative design activity). Information from the organizers is shared using a portal that includes a rich set of social awareness, social navigation and information production tools. Six of the groups select different, publicly available technologies to support information sharing and production during the Charrette. Our poster will present two interconnected findings. First, technology choice diffuses according to physical adjacency of the groups. Second, technology choice influences collaborative information behavior (CIB) within each group.
Natural Convection Studies in Nuclear Spent-Fuel Shipping Casks: Computation and Experiment

In an effort to maximize the passive heat rejection capability of nuclear spent-fuel shipping casks, a study is made of enclosed natural convection. Two computational methods and one optical experimental method are described. The finite-difference and finite-element numerical methods are developed, and two geometries representative of possible fuel cask configurations are investigated. A temperature visualization scheme using laser holographic interferometry is used to make measurements. The numerically predicted and experimentally measured temperature fields are compared.
The effects of lighting conditions and food restriction paradigms on locomotor activity of common spiny mice, Acomys cahirinus

An endogenous circadian clock controls locomotor activity in common spiny mice (Acomys cahirinus). However, little is known about the effects of constant light (LL) on this activity or about the existence of an additional food entrainable clock. A series of experiments were performed to investigate the effects of LL and DD on tau and activity levels. Spiny mice were housed individually and their running wheel activity monitored. One group of mice was exposed to LD, DD and several intensities of LL. Another group was exposed to a restricted feeding (RF) paradigm in light: dark (LD) during one hour before the L to D transition. Significance of rhythmicity was assessed using Lomb-Scargle periodograms. In LD all animals exhibited nocturnal activity rhythms that persisted in DD. When animals were exposed to RF (during L), all of these animals (n = 11) demonstrated significant food anticipatory activity as well as an increase in diurnal activity. This increase in diurnal activity persisted in 4/11 animals during subsequent ad libitum conditions. Under LL conditions, the locomotor rhythms of 2/11 animals appeared to entrain to RF. When animals were exposed to sequentially increasing LL intensities, rhythmicity persisted and, while activity decreased significantly, the free-running period was relatively unaffected. In addition, the period in LL was significantly longer than the period in DD. Exposure to LL also induced long-term changes (after-effects) on period and activity when animals were again exposed to DD. Overall these studies demonstrate clear and robust circadian rhythms of wheel-running in A. cahirinus. In addition, LL clearly inhibited activity in this species and induced after-effects. The results also confirm the presence of a food entrainable oscillator in this species.
Acquisition of a Micro Scale Photographic Survey Using an Autonomous Submersible

The feasibility of using EAVE-East, an autonomous, unmanned submersible, as a new tool for use by the marine science community in an undersea survey is explored. The project will provide researchers with a stereo photographic mosaic of an area of 900 square meters, resolved to within two millimeters. Accurate determination of camera height and camera separation will allow for quantitative measurements in all three dimensions. The juxtaposition of this information, along with accurate location data for each separate stereo pair and the total video coverage of the survey area will provide a unique quantitative and visual summary of the survey area.
Politics in the birthing room.

Women have always braved their way through childbirth one way or another. The hands surrounding them as they make their journey have offered many things. For some it has been herbs or a totem to hold. For others, it has been a tether to a beeping machine or a drug to transform the experience. No one has yet found the method(s) that addresses every pregnant woman's fear or pain during labor and birth. And no one can truly guarantee that all will be okay. The contemporary medical profession offers to shoulder the burden for women by "taking care of it for them," The managed care industry assures the public that they will provide pregnant women with the highest quality of care and the greatest decision-making power. Elected officials promise that they will save women and newborns from unscrupulous legal practices and from the abuses of managed care. But these goals, for better or worse, have yet to be fully realized. No matter the circumstances, women will continue to have babies. Their labors will be short or long, will occur surrounded by flowered decor or in sterile wards, and will be attended by physicians who are overburdened by the demands of maintaining a practice or by a midwife who must battle with institutional protocols to care for her clients. The battle for the political victories in women's health care will undoubtedly continue for some time to come. The strength and resolve of women and their families will determine the outcome and give voice to the consumer and the midwife in the board-room, in the hearing room, and in the birthing room.
A Study of the Time Dependent Ocean Circulation

Abstract The response of a simple bounded-ocean model to a fluctuating wind stress is studied. Both the linear response and the resulting steady non-linear circulations are computed. The results of this analysis show that the structures of the steady and fluctuating ocean circulations are strongly dependent on the frequency of the forcing.
Law Enforcement Perceptions of a Prescription Drug Monitoring Programme

In an effort to address the problem of prescription drug abuse and diversion in the USA, States have implemented prescription drug monitoring programmes (PDMPs) to track the prescribing and dispensing of controlled substances. For PDMPs to meet their objectives, law enforcement officials must be able to access the information contained within reports. This study provides a descriptive analysis of opinions held by Kentucky law enforcement officials regarding the Kentucky All Schedule Prescription Electronic Reporting (KASPER) system, the State's PDMP. Surveys designed to elicit perceptions regarding the effectiveness of KASPER were emailed to all 1,119 Kentucky law enforcement officials with a KASPER account; responses were received from 340 (response rate 30.4 per cent). Of these, 306 responses were included in the analysis. Most (65 per cent) respondents indicated that they had utilised a KASPER report in the month prior to survey participation with a median of three reports utilised (interquartile range...
Designing a cross-campus collaborative project

Workshop participants will design a small, simple cross-campus collaborative pilot project. Those who are interested will carry out the project in the subsequent year. The project would be chosen by the participants; it might involve solving a small research question or building a simple game. The primary goal would be to discover successful collaborative practices through experimentation by carrying out a small scale project. Issues to be tackled include how best to 1) structure tasks and data, 2) communicate and exchange information, and 3) harness expertise and available equipment. We want to discover all of the many things that might go wrong when working across campuses, and learn how prevent such problems in the future. The lessons learned would be used later to guide the design and implementation of a much larger cross-campus project involving students and other disciplines. The questions and issues to be discussed at this workshop include 1. What are the experiences of the workshop participants in doing collaborative work? What were the lessons learned? 2. What types of collaborations has been discussed in the literature? 3. What structure and tools are available for establishing and maintaining good communication, e.g. in-person meetings, phone meetings, blogs/wikis, webpages, email groups, video conferencing, code repositories, etc. 4. What are the characteristics of a good pilot project? It should be simple and straight forward so that the challenging issues have less to do with the problem than with the structure of the collaboration. 5. How does the nature of the project impact the communication choices? 6. What expertise do we need? What expertise do we have? 7. How should the project be structured? How should the work be divided among faculty and/or campuses? 8. What do we do when problems arise or communication fails? 9. How do we evaluate the project and the effectiveness of the collaboration? 10. Looking ahead, what additional issues will arise when students and other disciplines included?
The Sandia petaflops planner.

The Sandia Petaflops Planner is a tool for projecting the design and performance of parallel supercomputers into the future. The mathematical basis of these projections is the International Technology Roadmap for Semiconductors (ITRS, or a detailed version of Moore's Law) and DOE balance factors for supercomputer procurements. The planner is capable of various forms of scenario analysis, cost estimation, and technology analysis. The tool is described along with technology conclusions regarding PFLOPS-level supercomputers in the upcoming decade.
Bayesian Inference for Functional Dynamics Exploring in fMRI Data

This paper aims to review state-of-the-art Bayesian-inference-based methods applied to functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data. Particularly, we focus on one specific long-standing challenge in the computational modeling of fMRI datasets: how to effectively explore typical functional interactions from fMRI time series and the corresponding boundaries of temporal segments. Bayesian inference is a method of statistical inference which has been shown to be a powerful tool to encode dependence relationships among the variables with uncertainty. Here we provide an introduction to a group of Bayesian-inference-based methods for fMRI data analysis, which were designed to detect magnitude or functional connectivity change points and to infer their functional interaction patterns based on corresponding temporal boundaries. We also provide a comparison of three popular Bayesian models, that is, Bayesian Magnitude Change Point Model (BMCPM), Bayesian Connectivity Change Point Model (BCCPM), and Dynamic Bayesian Variable Partition Model (DBVPM), and give a summary of their applications. We envision that more delicate Bayesian inference models will be emerging and play increasingly important roles in modeling brain functions in the years to come.
Investigating American iPhone Users’ Intentions to Use NFC Mobile Payments in Hotels

Recently, a series of events (e.g., Near Field Communication (NFC) hardware becoming mainstream, the deadline given to merchants to accept EMV (chip-based) cards) precipitated the development of an infrastructure that increasingly accommodates NFC mobile payments (NFC-MP) in the U.S. Within the landscape of the American NFC-MP, an important role is occupied by the Apple NFC-MP ecosystem. Drawing from the neo-classic technology adoption and regulatory focus theory, this study developed a conceptual model that explicates iPhone users’ intentions to use NFC-MP in hotels. Using data collected from a sample of 347 U.S. iPhone users, the model was validated empirically, providing a mapping of the factors that influence intentions to use NFC-MP in hotels. The study validated hedonic motivation and performance expectancy as the most critical predictors of intentions, and recognized the more modest roles of privacy concerns and prevention focus in influencing intentions.
176 SONIC HEDGEHOG ESTABLISHES THE FIBROBLAST GROWTH FACTORS RESPONSIVENESS IN THE LIMB BUD SHH-FGF FEEDBACK LOOP.

Limb outgrowth is initiated and maintained by the secretion of FGFs in the apical ectodermal ridge (AER), whereas progressive limb pattern formation is regulated by SHH emanating from the zone of polarizing activity (ZPA). SHH also up-regulates factors that stimulate posteriorly accentuated FGFs in the AER. In turn, these FGFs maintain SHH expression in the adjacent distal mesoderm to complete the SHH-FGF feedback loop. Interestingly, application of FGF to the anterior mesoderm fails to up-regulate SHH, indicating a requirement for additional factors. We hypothesized that SHH induces this FGF responsiveness in limb mesoderm. To test this hypothesis, we ectopically expressed a SHH-GFP construct in the distal-anterior mesoderm by confined microelectroporation (CMEP) at HH 18-19. We demonstrated subsequent expression of SHH and its downstream target, the patched receptor (PTCH), by whole mount in situ hybridization (WISH). After 18 hours (HH 23-24) of exposure to SHH, we applied an FGF-soaked bead to the anterior margin. After an additional 24 hours, chicks were harvested and the SHH expression was determined by WISH. SHH and PTCH expression were up-regulated 24 hours after CMEP. The initial ectopic expression of SHH correlates with the site of transfection indicated by GFP fluorescence. Interestingly, by 42 hours the expression of SHH has shifted to lie immediately underneath the distal anterior AER and does not correlate with GFP fluorescence. These data signify that endogenous expression and FGF-regulated maintenance of SHH has been established. Furthermore, anteriorly placed FGF-soaked beads locally up-regulate SHH expression. Collectively, these data indicate that exposure of limb mesoderm to SHH activates a unique mechanism to produce SHH in response to FGF and thus link SHH expression tightly to the AER during limb outgrowth.
Analysis on Risk Factors of Pulmonary Tuberculosis Among University Students in Qinhuangdao

Objective To explore the risk factors of pulmonary tuberculosis among university students in Qinhuangdao. Methods A group-matched and case-controlled study was carried on 126 pulmonary tuberculosis students and 154 healthy students.Subjects were face-to-face interviewed by trained personals.Data were analyzed by univariate analysis and multivariable unconditional Logistic regression analysis. Results Univariate analysis results showed that pulmonary tuberculosis was statistically related to on-line time of every day,smoking,physical exercise,BMI,dietary habits,and sleeping time.Multivariable unconditional Logistic regression analysis showed that pulmonary tuberculosis was statistically related to on-line time of every day,smoking,physical exercise,BMI,dietary habits,and sleeping time. Conclusions Pulmonary tuberculosis among university students is primarily associated with on-line time of every day,smoking,physical exercise,BMI,dietary habits,and sleeping time.
Evaluation of a newly developed visual shade-matching apparatus.

PURPOSE This study evaluated a newly developed visual shade-matching apparatus, Shademat Visual+, as well as the influence of tab arrangement, clinician gender, and years in practice on shade-matching quality. MATERIALS AND METHODS A group of 129 color-normal evaluators-dental students and general dentists-matched the shade of four ceramometal crowns using the Vitapan Classical shade guide. Crowns were positioned onto the upper member of an artificial head and fastened to the headrest of the dental chair or Shademat Visual+. Shade tabs were arranged according to the manufacturer's suggestion or according to deltaE* in relation to the "lightest" tab and divided into groups (alternative arrangement). The evaluators matched the shade of four ceramometal crowns both in daylight and using the Shademat Visual+ artificial light source. The color coordinates were determined using digital image analysis. Based on deltaE* values, each shade-matching result was ranked from 1 (the worst match) to 16 (the best match) points. RESULTS The evaluators achieved a better result in Shademat Visual+ trials than in daylight trials (13.2 points vs 12.4 points; P < .001). For the same ceramometal crown, 12.7 points were recorded in daylight trials with the manufacturer-suggested arrangement, and 13.7 were recorded with the alternative arrangement (P< .001). Corresponding values for Shademat Visual+ trials were 13.6 points and 14.6 points, respectively (P< .001). Female-male and student-dentist evaluator differences were not significant. CONCLUSION The Shademat Visual+ apparatus enabled better shade-matching results than daylight. The alternative tab arrangement enabled better results than the manufacturer-suggested one. Gender and years in practice did not influence shade-matching quality.
The Examination and Conservation of a Chiaroscuro Woodcut: Antonio da Trento's Martyrdom of Two Saints, a Case Study

Antonio da Trento's chiaroscuro woodcut, Martyrdom of Two Saints, ca. 1527–1530, was acquired by the Los Angeles County Museum of Art in 2012 as part of a larger study of Italian Renaissance chiaroscuro woodcuts. Analysis of the print by noninvasive and micro-invasive methods including technical imaging, X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, microfade testing, Raman spectroscopy, and fiber optics reflectance spectrometry characterized the pigments in the printing inks. The results of the scientific studies, coupled with extractions, color spectrophotometry, and spot testing, were used to develop a treatment protocol for the Martyrdom, while considering conservation issues particular to chiaroscuro woodcuts.
Laparoscopic Pediatric Inguinal Hernia Repair: A Pilot Study in a Novel Guinea Pig Animal Model.

Abstract Background: The purpose of this study was to compare different techniques for pediatric laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair. We hypothesize that the amount of dissection performed at the internal ring, with or without division of the peritoneum, will impact healing and thus long-term success of the repair. Methods: Following the Institution's Animal Care and Use Committee approval (708024-4), 20 Hartley guinea pigs underwent laparoscopic repair of their natural open internal rings. The guinea pigs were divided equally into four surgical groups: intracorporeal suture repair (IS), hernia dissection and division with intracorporeal suture (DDIS) repair, subcutaneous endoscopically assisted ligation (SEAL), and Yueng (HOOK) repair. After a 6-week survival period, a necropsy was performed. Repairs were evaluated and tested under pressures up to 30 mmHg. The suture was then removed to assess primary healing. Experimental data were analyzed using chi-square test. Results: There were no perioperative or ...
Time-Delay Integration Imaging with ICON’s Far-Ultraviolet Imager

A Time-Delay Integration (TDI) image acquisition and processing system has been developed to capture ICON’s Far Ultraviolet (FUV) Spectrographic Imager data. The TDI system is designed to provide variable-range motion-compensated imaging of Earth’s nightside ionospheric limb and sub-limb scenes viewed from Low Earth Orbit in the 135.6 nm emission of oxygen with an integration time of 12 seconds. As a pre-requisite of the motion compensation the TDI system is also designed to provide corrections for optical distortions generated by the FUV Imager’s optical assembly. On the dayside the TDI system is used to process 135.6 nm and 157.0 nm wavelength altitude profiles simultaneously. We present the TDI system’s design methodology and implementation as an FPGA module with an emphasis on minimization of on-board data throughput and telemetry. We also present the methods and results of testing the TDI system in simulation and with Engineering Ground Support Equipment (EGSE) to validate its performance.
Bone: Bone marrow adipocytes in 3D

Culturing bone marrow stromal cells on 3D silk scaffolds supports their proliferation and adipogenesis, while minimizing the activation of inflammatory pathways. Therefore, differentiation of bone marrow adipocytes in 3D culture might provide a more representative model for the study of bone marrow adipose tissue than is offered by traditional 2D cell cultures.
“Baby, Please Don’t Change”: Transitioning Squared, Transgender in College

Despite more visibility in recent years, transgender youth continue to experience exposure to societal pressure and trauma, which impacts their mental health and causes higher rates of mental illness and substance abuse. When ignored, untreated symptoms interfere with academic success as well as self-care. The chapter describes the case of a transgender male with several comorbid diagnosis and family stressors that significantly impair his ability to focus in school. In this particular case, the student had no previous mental health treatment, and family and student never realized how important a transition plan for college is and what resources were available on campus. When his mental health began to unravel, it progressed quickly, and endangered his safety. Discussion focused on the importance of involving family, as well as the difficulties of doing so, and helping students advocate for themselves. Failure to do so may result in delayed care and poor prognosis.
Induction of B Cell Proliferation and Differentiation

B lymphocyte activation, growth, and differentiation is an ordered process controlled by distinct stimuli acting at each step. Activation of resting B cells can be achieved by suitable cross-linkage of membrane receptors, by cognate interaction with helper T cells, and through nonspecific T cell-derived activating stimuli. Activated B cells will proliferate under the influence of growth factors, of which the best characterized is the B cell growth factor BSF-pl. The differentiation of such cells into cells capable of secreting immunoglobulin is controlled by a set of differentiation factors or “T cell replacing factors.” Efforts to purify the various factors, to understand their mode of action, and to isolate their receptors will be a major theme of research on B cells during the next several years.
Groggy Wakeup - Automated Generation of Power-Efficient Detection Hierarchies for Wearable Sensors

We present a framework for the automated generation of power-efficient state detection in wearable sensor nodes. The core of the framework is a decision tree classifier, which dynamically adjusts the activation and sampling rate of the sensors (termed groggy wakeup), such that only the data necessary to determine the system state is collected at any given time. This classifier can be tuned to trade-off accuracy and power in a structured fashion. Use of a sensor set which measures the phenomena of interest in multiple fashions and with various accuracies further improves the savings by increasing the possible choices for the above decision process.
Pharmacy Schools Should Be Involved in Disaster Preparedness Planning at the Local and State Levels.

With the occurrence of several recent extreme weather events in the United States, the opportunities are great for schools and colleges of pharmacy to become involved with disaster planning at their local and state levels. The University of Charleston School of Pharmacy (UCSOP) became involved in
Associations between Childhood Weight Status and Timing of First Sex in an Ethnically Diverse Sample.

Abstract Background: Most research linking weight status and timing of first sexual intercourse is cross-sectional in design, with few longitudinal analyses published to date. We examined associati...
The Texas special education cap: Exploration into the statewide delay and denial of support to students with disabilities

State accountability systems have been a primary school reform initiative in the U.S. for the past twenty years, but often produce unintended negative consequences. In 2004, the Texas Education Agency (TEA) implemented the Performance Based Monitoring and Analysis System (PBMAS) which included an accountability indicator focused on the percentage of students found eligible for special education under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the nation’s special education law. From 2004 through 2016, the percentage of students found eligible for special education in Texas declined significantly, while the national rate held constant. Eventually, the U.S. Department of Education (ED) investigated TEA and the statewide implementation of IDEA. The purpose of this study is two-fold: (a) to evaluate the potential impact of the the PBMAS indicator on manipulation of special education identification practices; and (b) to describe how the indicator may have influenced school and district personnel. We highlight several concerning trends in state and district data and, through an analysis of publicly available reports from the ED, show how district and school personnel knowingly and unknowingly acted in ways that delayed and denied special education to potentially eligible students. We conclude with recommendations for TEA and implications for future research and policy.
Multifidelity Framework for Modeling Combustion Dynamics

A multifidelity framework oriented toward efficient modeling of combustion dynamics that integrates a reduced-order model (ROM) for the combustion response into the Euler equations is proposed. The...
Lithium continuation therapy following ketamine in patients with treatment resistant unipolar depression: a randomized controlled trial

The N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist ketamine is associated with rapid but transient antidepressant effects in patients with treatment resistant unipolar depression (TRD). Based on work suggesting that ketamine and lithium may share overlapping mechanisms of action, we tested lithium compared to placebo as a continuation strategy following ketamine in subjects with TRD. Participants who met all eligibility criteria and showed at least an initial partial response to a single intravenous infusion of ketamine 0.5 mg/kg were randomized under double-blind conditions to lithium or matching placebo before receiving an additional three infusions of ketamine. Subsequent to the ketamine treatments, participants remained on lithium or placebo during a double-blind continuation phase. The primary study outcome was depression severity as measured by the Montgomery–Asberg Depression Rating Scale compared between the two groups at Study Day 28, which occurred ~2 weeks following the final ketamine of four infusions. Forty-seven participants with TRD were enrolled in the study and underwent an initial ketamine infusion, of whom 34 participants were deemed to have at least a partial antidepressant response and were eligible for randomization. Comparison between treatment with daily oral lithium (n = 18) or matching placebo (n = 16) at the primary outcome showed no difference in depression severity between groups (t32 = 0.11, p = 0.91, 95% CI [−7.87, 8.76]). There was no difference between lithium and placebo in continuing the acute antidepressant response to ketamine. The identification of a safe and effective strategy for preventing depression relapse following an acute course of ketamine treatment remains an important goal for future studies.
Microneedles-based electrochemical sensors: New tools for advanced biosensing

Abstract Electrochemical biosensors are used worldwide as analytical tools from laboratory applications to market products. The performance of electrochemical sensing can be boosted by adopting the microneedle (MN) geometry as an innovative configuration of standard electrodes. MNs can be miniaturized, easily functionalized, and properly designed for specific aim monitoring, but most of all, they allow a low invasive controlling tool for growth and for environment influence in plant and a painless door to human body fluids where target analytes can be detected, overcoming the natural barrier of the skin. In this review, the very recent developments in MN-based electrochemical biosensing published in the literature are summarized.
Comparative Analysis of Continuous Suturing, Interrupted Suturing, and Cyanoacrylate-Based Lid Techniques for End-to-End Microvascular Anastomosis: Laboratory Investigation.

Background Mastery of the microsurgical anastomosis is an indispensable component of neurosurgical training. However, in many resource-limited countries, the training, materials, and equipment to obtain these surgical and decision making skills are severely lacking. This study aimed to compare different suturing techniques for microvascular anastomosis and to complete a comparative assessment of the performance of a young neurosurgeon when using the various techniques. Methods We compared 3 end-to-end suturing techniques for microvascular anastomosis: interrupted suturing, continuous suturing, and a 2-octyl-cyanoacrylate–based lid technique using an umbilical artery model. We assessed the subjective difficulty of the suturing technique, the time needed to perform the procedure, and the flow rate and leakage of the vessel after each technique. This study was designed to use materials that would be available in developing countries. Surgical apparatus used, such as operating microscopes, were first-generation technology, and testing procedures were designed for neurosurgical residents in developing countries. Results The mean times to complete the anastomosis were 20.7 ± 7.7 minutes for the interrupted technique, 26.4 ± 7.7 minutes for the continuous technique, and 12.5 ± 2.5 minutes for the lid technique; these values were significantly different (P Conclusions Suturing time was the only statistically significant difference among the 3 anastomotic techniques, with the lid technique apparently the quickest to perform. Such techniques can be designed to assess microsurgical abilities and help neurosurgery residents in developing countries improve their surgical skills and techniques.
Modifications to Infant Formula Instructions Improve the Accuracy of Formula Dispensing

Readability of infant formula preparation instructions is universally poor, which may result in inaccurate infant feeding. Given that inaccurate formula dispensing can lead to altered infant growth and increased adiposity, there is an increased need for easy to follow instructions for formula preparation. We hypothesize that altering infant formula instruction labels using feedback from iterative focus groups will improve the preparation accuracy of powdered infant formula in a randomized controlled trial. Participants were recruited from the community, 18 years of age or older, willing to disclose demographic information for focus group matching, and willing to participate freely in the first (n = 21) or second (n = 150) phase of the study. In the second phase, participants were randomized to use the standard manufacturer instructions or to use the modified instructions created in the first phase. Accuracy was defined as the percent error between manufacturer-intended powder formula quantity and the amount dispensed by the participant. Participants who were assigned to the modified instructions were able to dispense the powdered formula more accurately than participants who used the standard manufacturer instructions (-0.67 ± 0.76 vs. -4.66 ± 0.74% error; p < 0.0001). Accuracy in powdered formula dispensing was influenced by bottle size (p = 0.02) but not by body mass index (p = 0.17), education level (p = 0.75), income (p = 0.7), age (p = 0.89) or caregiver status (p = 0.18). Percent error of water measurement was not different between the groups (standard: -1.4 ± 0.6 vs. modified: 0.7 ± 0.6%; p = 0.38). Thus, caloric density was more accurate in the modified instructions group compared to the standard manufacturer instructions group (-0.3 ± 0.6 vs.-2.9 ± 0.9%; p = 0.03). Infant formula label modifications using focus group feedback increased infant formula preparation accuracy.
Chapter 4 – The Male Reproductive System

The male reproductive tract includes a pair of testes (testicles), which produce the male germ cells (gametes) called spermatozoa (sing., spermatozoon), or sperm. The testes, the male sex accessory ducts (which receive, store, and transport sperm), and the sex accessory glands (which add substances to the ducts), as well as the external genitalia, are all male primary sexual characteristics. The male secondary sexual characteristics include all those external features (except the external genitalia) that distinguish an adult man from an adult woman. These include larger muscles, greater average height, facial hair, and a lower voice.
Pull Factors and Migration Preferences: Evidence from the Middle East and North Africa:

Which national characteristics do voluntary migrants prioritize when considering destinations? Although this question is salient for policymakers, extant studies face challenges when seeking to ide...
Come together: bioelectric healing-on-a-chip

There is a growing interest in bioelectric wound treatment and electrotaxis, the process by which cells detect an electric field and orient their migration along its direction, has emerged as a potential cornerstone of the endogenous wound healing response. Despite recognition of the importance of electrotaxis in wound healing, no experimental system to date demonstrates that the actual closing of a wound can be accelerated solely by the electrotaxis response itself, and in vivo systems are too complex to resolve cell migration from other healing stages such as proliferation and inflammation. This uncertainty has led to a lack of standardization between stimulation methods, model systems, and electrode technology required for device development. In this paper, we present a 9healing-on-chip9 approach that is a standardized, low-cost, model for investigating electrically accelerated wound healing. Our device provides the first convergent field geometry used in a stimulation device. We validate this device by using electrical stimulation to close a 1.5 mm gap between two large (30 mm2) primary skin keratinocyte layers to double the rate of healing over an unstimulated tissue. This proves that convergent electrotaxis is both possible and can accelerate healing, and offers a new 9healing-on-a-chip9 platform to explore future bioelectric interfaces.
The Radiation Target in Small Cell Lung

The historic target for treating small cell lung cancer with curative radiation was simply defined by what could be “safely” encompassed within a single (hemi-thoracic) “portal” drawn on a chest X-ray film. Six decades of advances in radiologic and nuclear medicine imaging have led to a revision of this classically defined target to one that more accurately reflects the true extent of actual disease. Accuracy in target definition has been matched to advances in technology for radiotherapy (RT) planning and delivery so that current treatment approaches are more likely to result in optimal cancer control while minimizing normal tissue irradiation and treatment-related side effects. This chapter will review historic trials and ongoing studies to provide a comprehensive understanding on the evolution of the RT target in small cell lung cancer.
Leptophilic Dark Matter at Linear Colliders.

We discuss model-independent collider constraints on the effective couplings of leptophilic dark matter (LDM), considering its production at a future electron-positron linear collider, with both polarized and unpolarized beam options, in the mono-photon and mono-$Z$ channels. We show that the future collider constraints are largely complementary to the direct and indirect detection limits on LDM, and can potentially provide the best-ever LDM sensitivity in the low-mass regime (below $\sim$ 10 GeV).
Circles of Strain

A graphical construction for strains analogous to Mohr's Circles of Stress, is derived. I ts application to the determination of principal strains from three strains at 45° is demonstrated. I t is believed that a clearer concept of the relationships involved will be obtained thereby and the analysis of plane states of stress will be facilitated.
A note on the existence and uniqueness of plane steady viscous flow in exterior domains

In this article we study the existence and uniqueness of solutions of the stationary Navier-Stokes equations in two-dimensional exterior domains. Using well-known L q -estimates for the Oseen problems and an iterative process based on repeated resolution of Oseen problems, we prove the existence and uniqueness of solutions of the Navier-Stokes equations in two-dimensional exterior domains. Our results give another answer to a question recently raised in (2,3) concerning the summability with exponent p ∈ (1, 2) of the gradient of the velocity of stationary plane flow of a viscous fluid in exterior domains.
Biomechanical Screening of Cell Therapies for Vocal Fold Scar

Candidate cell sources for vocal fold scar treatment include mesenchymal stromal cells from bone marrow (BM-MSC) and adipose tissue (AT-MSC). Mechanosensitivity of MSC can alter highly relevant aspects of their behavior, yet virtually nothing is known about how MSC might respond to the dynamic mechanical environment of the larynx. Our objective was to evaluate MSC as a potential cell source for vocal fold tissue engineering in a mechanically relevant context. A vibratory strain bioreactor and cDNA microarray were used to evaluate the similarity of AT-MSC and BM-MSC to the native cell source, vocal fold fibroblasts (VFF). Posterior probabilities for each of the microarray transcripts fitting into specific expression patterns were calculated, and the data were analyzed for Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment. Significant wound healing and cell differentiation GO terms are reported. In addition, proliferation and apoptosis were evaluated with immunohistochemistry. Results revealed that VFF shared more GO terms related to epithelial development, extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, growth factor activity, and immune response with BM-MSC than with AT-MSC. Similarity in glycosaminoglycan and proteoglycan activity dominated the ECM analysis. Analysis of GO terms relating to MSC differentiation toward osteogenic, adipogenic, and chondrogenic lineages revealed that BM-MSC expressed fewer osteogenesis GO terms in the vibrated and scaffold-only conditions compared to polystyrene. We did not evaluate if vibrated BM-MSC recover osteogenic expression markers when returned to polystyrene culture. Immunostaining for Ki67 and cleaved caspase 3 did not vary with cell type or mechanical condition. We conclude that VFF may have a more similar wound healing capacity to BM-MSC than to AT-MSC in response to short-term vibratory strain. Furthermore, BM-MSC appear to lose osteogenic potential in the vibrated and scaffold-only conditions compared to polystyrene, potentially attenuating the risk of osteogenesis for in vivo applications.
Combinatorial auction based routing in multi-channel cognitive radio networks

In this paper, we propose an auction-based routing algorithm in a distributed cognitive radio network. The routing of packets is viewed as a market-based phenomenon where channels are traded between transmitters and receivers. Message routes are determined through a series of auctions between message senders and forwarders. The use of auction facilitates the determination of the cost of bandwidth in a market-like scenario, hence the price to be paid by the senders, for each of the possible routes. The process involves the forwarders (or, bidders) bidding the price and the sender choosing the winner with the minimum bid. While the proposed schema explores all routes from the source to the destination through a repeated bidding process, the route with the minimum payment is chosen as the optimal solution that satisfies the requirement of the sender. Bidders determine their bid based on three utility values: i) signal to interference and noise ratio on a specific channel, ii) achievable capacity on each channel, and iii) the required bandwidth to satisfy the buyer's bit rate requirement. We consider two cases: i) sellers can bid for only one channel; in this case the bid is for the channel which satisfies the bit rate requirement and has the minimum price and ii) sellers can bid for a combination of non-substitutable channels that collectively satisfy the bit rate requirement. Since exploring all possible combinations of channels is NR-hard, we propose a greedy heuristic that takes O(nlogn). We validate the proposed auction based routing through extensive simulation experiments. Results are obtained for different topologies and for various number of channels and networking parameters.
Alloy Design with Oxide Dispersiods and Precipitates

The mechanical behavior of particle strengthened alloys is reviewed and at times extended. On the basis of this knowledge, we discuss and conclude that second phase particles, coherent or incoherent, can certainly enhance the flow strength, creep resistance, and stress-rupture life of alloys. Unfortunately, we also conclude that, at this time, particles are usually not beneficial alloy-design elements if enhanced uniaxial ductility, plane-strain ductility, stress-rupture ductility, and toughness are called for. Such properties as fatigue-crack propagation resistance appear to require, for example, both high strength and high ductility, a situation which can come to pass only when the perennial conflict between strength and ductility is resolved in particle strengthened systems in particular and in any other material system in general. Wherever possible, we distinguish between the role of coherent versus incoherent particles in alloy design.