cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of plasma polymer deposition methods on copper corrosion protection

The behavior of plasma polymer coating for Cu corrosion protection was investigated in dc cathodic polymerization, with and without anode magnetron enhancement, af magnetron glow discharge polymerization, and rf glow discharge polymerization. The combination of visual and scanning electron microscopy observations established general trends in an accelerated wet/dry cycle corrosion testing environment containing 0.1N chloride ions. Dc anodic magnetron cathodic polymerization of TMS offered the best Cu corrosion protection due to an enhanced deposition uniformity and adhesion of the deposited plasma polymer to the Cu substrate. No corrosion was observed after 25 wet/dry cycle accelerated corrosion tests when uncoated Cu suffered a severely generalized attack in one cycle. Superior corrosion protection was also performed by an af plasma polymerized coating of C4F10 + H2 (1 : 1) at a low-energy input density and of methane at high-energy input and high deposition thickness carried out in the range of this study. The application of plasma polymers which showed high water vapor permeation resistance and surface dynamic stability ǵreatly reduced the pitting densities. © 1996 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Fraction of organic carbon predicts labile desorption rates of chlorinated organic pollutants in laboratory-spiked geosorbents.

The resuspension of large volumes of sediments that are contaminated with chlorinated pollutants continues to threaten environmental quality and human health. Whereas kinetic models are more accurate for estimating the environmental impact of these events, their widespread use is substantially hampered by the need for costly, time-consuming, site-specific kinetics experiments. The present study investigated the development of a predictive model for desorption rates from easily measurable sorbent and pollutant properties by examining the relationship between the fraction of organic carbon (fOC) and labile release rates. Duplicate desorption measurements were performed on 46 unique combinations of pollutants and sorbents with fOC values ranging from 0.001 to 0.150. Labile desorption rate constants indicate that release rates predominantly depend upon the fOC in the geosorbent. Previous theoretical models, such as the macro-mesopore and organic matter (MOM) diffusion model, have predicted such a relationship but could not accurately predict the experimental rate constants collected in the present study. An empirical model was successfully developed to correlate the labile desorption rate constant (krap) to the fraction of organic material where log(krap) = 0.291−0.785 · log(fOC). These results provide the first experimental evidence that kinetic pollution releases during resuspension events are governed by the fOC content in natural geosorbents. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2010;29:1049–1055. © 2010 SETAC
Impact of leakage and short circuit current in rush current analysis of power gated domains

Power shut off being a key technique for power reduction in today's designs, it is critical to be able to verify circuit behavior when it is powered from an off state to an on state. The total rush current and turn-on time of the module can be impacted by the high short circuit current caused by slow signal slew rates and the leakage current of the module. In this paper, we present a study on how these effects impact the overall analysis and how they can be accounted for during a power-up analysis. The analysis has been done on ARM 968 processor based Wireless LAN IC.
Quantum limits of space-to-ground optical communications

Quantum limiting factors contributed by the transmitter, the optical channel, and the receiver of a space-to-ground optical communications link are described. Approaches to move toward the ultimate quantum limit are discussed.
Conceptual analysis and design of NSTX vacuum vessel and support structures

The National Spherical Tokamak Experiment is a low-aspect-ratio tokamak facility currently in the conceptual design phase. The vacuum vessel, in addition to provides a high vacuum chamber for plasma experiments, also serves as a load-carrying element for supporting the center stack, the external poloidal field coils, and the toroidal field coils. Design requirements and structural considerations for the vacuum vessel and its support structure were described in the paper. Structural responses were calculated using the finite element method. Various loading conditions including in the analyses are dead weight, static electromagnetic loads, plasma disruptions, bakeout thermal effects, vacuum pressure, seismic excitations, and simultaneously occurrence of such loadings.
Managerial intelligence: Why IQ Isn’t Enough

This article presents a theory of managerial intelligence, as well as data to support the theory. First, the article opens with a general discussion of managerial intelligence. Second, it describes two alternative models, a traditional and a nontraditional one, of intelligence as applied to managers. Third, it discusses why construct validation, rather than just predictive validation, is important for selecting a theory and corresponding measure of managerial intelligence. Fourth, the article discusses the relevance of a three-part, “triarchic” theory of human intelligence as applied to managerial performance. Finally, the article draws some general conclusions about what makes a person managerially intelligent.
Development of personal-computer-based instructional aids for introductory technology courses: initial accomplishments

Most existing related instructional software for the personal computer (PC) has been still-frame and often DOS-based, and has required the set-up or an extensive keyboard response protocol, rather than being animated and fully interactive. Also, few developmental efforts have related directly to technology education. The author received a National Science Foundation grant and a small Westinghouse Foundation award in August 1996 to support work to address some of these omissions. The present project seeks to address this deficiency through the development, implementation, evaluation, and dissemination of interactive, animated, graphical software aids for classroom and out-of-class use. The major focus of the present project has been to develop, implement, and evaluate user-friendly, microcomputer-based instructional aids which enhance student performance and participation in early courses, and provide problem-solving resources that students can use as they progress through succeeding courses.
Design and evaluation of a learning augmented longitudinal flight control system

A summary of a program to design, develop, and evaluate a hybrid learning augmented longitudinal flight control system for a high performance aircraft is presented. In addition to the learning augmented (hybrid) controller, two baseline controllers (a linear compensator and an adaptive controller) were also developed for purposes of comparison. The three share the same basic structure: all are model-reference controllers, the hybrid system is a learning augmented version of the adaptive controller, which is an adaptive version of the linear compensator. Each was designed to serve as a longitudinal control augmentation system to improve the basic handling qualities of a three-degree-of-freedom, nonlinear aircraft model. The hybrid controller was trained by exposing it to a number of transient responses of this aircraft. The transients were initiated by applying different stick inputs to the aircraft at randomly selected trim conditions throughout a subsonic flight envelope. The desired pitch rate responses corresponding to the same stick inputs and flight conditions were generated by a simple linearized reference model, scheduled on altitude and Mach number. Performance statistics were obtained for all three controllers by analyzing the pitch rate tracking error experienced over a variety of different flight conditions. >
On Protecting Industrial Automation and Control Systems against Electronic Attacks

Protecting manufacturing control systems from network-based attacks is becoming more important with increasing demand on vertical integration of plant floor and corporate networks. This paper discusses the differences between corporate networks and plant floor networks from a security perspective, and outlines some requirements for the plant floor network security. The challenges for the development of security solutions for automation and control systems are highlighted. Several on-going standardization activities are introduced. A conceptual reference framework for protecting industrial automation and control systems is proposed and features for detection and prevention of network-based attacks are disclosed. This paper ends with the discussion of possible solutions for the existing vulnerability examples.
Peptidoglycan of Myxococcus xanthus: Structure and Relation to Morphogenesis

The chemical nature and distribution of the peptidoglycan in Myxococcus xanthus at various stages of the cellular life cycle were investigated. Vegetative cells and microcysts contained approximately 0.6% by weight of peptidoglycan. The overall composition of the peptidoglycan was similar in both cell types and was approximately 1 glutamic acid, 1 diaminopimelic acid, 1.7 alanine, 0.75 N-acetylglucosamine, and 0.75 N-acetylmuramic acid. (We have assumed that all the hexosamines are N-acetylated.) The sizes of the subunits (estimated by gel filtration) solubilized by muramidases were considerably larger (tetramer and oligomer) in the microcysts than in the vegetative cells (mostly dimer). There was a transient decrease in cross-linking (measured as an increase in the amount of free amino group of diaminopimelic acid) during the stage of microcyst formation when the cells converted from ovoids to spheres. At the same time, there occurred a large and rapid increase in a galactosamine derivative which may have reflected the synthesis of capsular material. Immediately prior to this period of morphogenesis, the cells became resistant to penicillin but remained sensitive to d-cycloserine. The walls of vegetative cells were completely disaggregated by trypsin and sodium lauryl sulfate, suggesting a discontinuous peptidoglycan layer. This was no longer apparent after the ovoid-sphere stage of microcyst formation. The relationship to morphogenesis of the chemical changes in the cell wall is discussed.
NATURAL ANTIOXIDANTS: SOURCES, COMPOUNDS, MECHANISMS OF ACTION, AND POTENTIAL APPLICATIONS

Abstract: While use of synthetic antioxidants (such as butylated hydroxytoluene and butylated hydroxyanisole) to maintain the quality of ready-to-eat food products has become commonplace, consumer concern regarding their safety has motivated the food industry to seek natural alternatives. Phenolic antioxidants can inhibit free radical formation and/or interrupt propagation of autoxidation. Fat-soluble vitamin E (α-tocopherol) and water-soluble vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) are both effective in the appropriate matrix. Plant extracts, generally used for their flavoring characteristics, often have strong H-donating activity thus making them extremely effective antioxidants. This antioxidant activity is most often due to phenolic acids (gallic, protocatechuic, caffeic, and rosmarinic acids), phenolic diterpenes (carnosol, carnosic acid, rosmanol, and rosmadial), flavonoids (quercetin, catechin, naringenin, and kaempferol), and volatile oils (eugenol, carvacrol, thymol, and menthol). Some plant pigments (anthocyanin and anthocyanidin) can chelate metals and donate H to oxygen radicals thus slowing oxidation via 2 mechanisms. Tea and extracts of grape seeds and skins contain catechins, epicatechins, phenolic acids, proanthocyanidins, and resveratrol, all of which contribute to their antioxidative activity. The objective of this article is to provide an overview of natural antioxidants, their mechanisms of action, and potential applications.
Calcium-induced Folding and Stabilization of the Pseudomonas aeruginosa Alkaline Protease

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen that contributes to the mortality of immunocompromised individuals and patients with cystic fibrosis. Pseudomonas infection presents clinical challenges due to its ability to form biofilms and modulate host-pathogen interactions through the secretion of virulence factors. The calcium-regulated alkaline protease (AP), a member of the repeats in toxin (RTX) family of proteins, is implicated in multiple modes of infection. A series of full-length and truncation mutants were purified for structural and functional studies to evaluate the role of Ca2+ in AP folding and activation. We find that Ca2+ binding induces RTX folding, which serves to chaperone the folding of the protease domain. Subsequent association of the RTX domain with an N-terminal α-helix stabilizes AP. These results provide a basis for the Ca2+-mediated regulation of AP and suggest mechanisms by which Ca2+ regulates the RTX family of virulence factors.
Shifting the Paradigm in Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome.

* Abbreviation: STEC-HUS — : Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli hemolytic uremic syndrome In this issue of the journal, Ardissino et al1 report that early volume expansion in children with hemolytic uremic syndrome associated with Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC-HUS) significantly improves clinical outcomes. The observation possesses significant clinical implications for the management of an illness that causes much morbidity and not infrequently, mortality.2 The data are among the first in several decades that motivate a clinically useful change in the standard practice. The elegantly simple study design led to a relatively straightforward, yet palpably important conclusion that upon presentation, timely administration of sufficient intravenous fluids to increase the child’s body weight by 10% meaningfully decreases length of stay, need for admission to a PICU, use of renal replacement therapy, and the incidence of long-term sequelae. There is much to learn from the trial. First, and clearly most significant, treatment of STEC-HUS entails time-sensitive delivery of intravenous fluids. The trial provides compelling evidence that a less vigorous regimen of rehydration increases the risk of an unfavorable outcome. The notion … David N. Cornfield, MD, Center for Excellence in Pulmonary Biology, Divisions of Pediatric Pulmonary, Asthma, and Critical Care Medicine, Stanford University Medical School Medicine, 770 Welch Rd, Stanford, CA 94304. E-mail: cornfield{at}stanford.edu
Selfish Chromosomal Deletions and Other Delusions for Which Bioeconomics Provides Viable Alternatives

Technical terms are apt to be misunderstood when they bear deceptive resemblance to ones used in every day language. Terms that are vague or equivocal can be misleading even to those who use them r...
α‐Ketobenzothiazole Serine Protease Inhibitors of Aberrant HGF/c‐MET and MSP/RON Kinase Pathway Signaling in Cancer

Upregulation of the HGF and MSP growth-factor processing serine endopeptidases HGFA, matriptase and hepsin is correlated with increased metastasis in multiple tumor types driven by c-MET or RON kinase signaling. We rationally designed P1' α-ketobenzothiazole mechanism-based inhibitors of these proteases. Structure-activity studies are presented, which resulted in the identification of potent inhibitors with differential selectivity. The tetrapeptide inhibitors span the P1-P1' substrate cleavage site via a P1' amide linker off the benzothiazole, occupying the S3' pocket. Optimized inhibitors display sub-nanomolar enzyme inhibition against one, two, or all three of HGFA, matriptase, and hepsin. Several compounds also have good selectivity against the related trypsin-like proteases, thrombin and Factor Xa. Finally, we show that inhibitors block the fibroblast (HGF)-mediated migration of invasive DU145 prostate cancer cells. In addition to prostate cancer, breast, colon, lung, pancreas, gliomas, and multiple myeloma tumors all depend on HGF and MSP for tumor survival and progression. Therefore, these unique inhibitors have potential as new therapeutics for a diverse set of tumor types.
Control and State Estimation Techniques for the M-Sat Mission

Fractionated spacecraft is a current topic of research in low Earth orbit spaceflight. Atmospheric drag and tight tolerances dictated by scientific objectives make accurate state estimation and precision control essential to mission success. This is especially true for small spacecraft that are mass, power, and fuel restricted. This paper discusses a comparison between multiple control techniques for the M-SAT mission, a leader-follower mission with a 50 meter in-track formation. The controllers are evaluated based on position accuracy, fuel expenditure, and robustness in the presence of measurement noise. Also discussed is a comparison between two orbit state estimators to determine accuracy in the presence of large measurement noise.
Comics and Conflict: Patriotism and Propaganda from WWII through Operation Iraqi Freedom

Comics and Conflict traces the theme of war in American comics over the last seventy years. Author Scott A. Cord, who has a doctorate in American history from Loyola University, in Chicago, investi...
Voluntary exercise blocks Western diet-induced gene expression of the chemokines CXCL10 and CCL2 in the prefrontal cortex

Obesity increases inflammation, both peripherally and centrally, and exercise can ameliorate some of the negative health outcomes associated with obesity. Within the brain, the effect of obesity on inflammation has been well characterized in the hypothalamus and hippocampus, but has been relatively understudied in other brain regions. The current study was designed to address two primary questions; (1) whether western diet (high fat/high sucrose) consumption would increase markers of inflammation in the prefrontal cortex and (2) whether concurrent voluntary wheel running would ameliorate any inflammation. Adult male mice were exposed to a western diet or a control diet for 8weeks. Concurrently, half the animals were given running wheels in their home cages, while half did not have access to wheels. At the conclusion of the study, prefrontal cortex was removed and expression of 18 proinflammatory genes was assayed. Expression of a number of proinflammatory molecules was upregulated by consumption of the western diet. For two chemokines, chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2 (CCL2) and C-X-C motif chemokine 10 (CXCL10), voluntary exercise blocked the increase in the expression of these genes. Cluster analysis confirmed that the majority of the tested genes were upregulated by western diet, and identified another small cluster of genes that were downregulated by either diet or exercise. These data identify a proinflammatory phenotype within the prefrontal cortex of mice fed a western diet, and indicate that chemokine induction can be blocked by voluntary exercise.
Kant’s Anthropology as Klugheitslehre

In this essay I show that Kant intended his anthropology lectures and book, Anthropology from a Pragmatic Point of View, to be a Klugheitslehre (theory of prudence). The essay draws on many quotes from these sources to show that Kant wanted to develop a theory of how to use other people for one’s own ends. Although so much of the lectures and book are in conversation with Baumgarten’s empirical psychology, there are enough references to Klugheit (prudence) and klug (clever) action to support this thesis. Prudence is a skill that human beings should develop and hence is not excluded from human life even though it is not the basis of morality. The purpose of Klugheit is to achieve happiness but the means to that happiness involves using other people for one’s own ends. In order to use others as a means to one’s own ends, a person must in some way satisfy the inclinations of the other person so that they cooperate in one’s ends. However it is also possible to dominate another person and use them as well if they are dominated by a passion but this is not prudent since it does not achieve happiness except in the case of a husband and wife. Kant’s distinction between Weltklugheit and Privatklugheit also appears to be confirmed in that he advances the idea that sociable means of gaining the cooperation of others (Privatklugheit) leads to the lasting happiness of a person and to the development of civilization.
Xanthogranulomatous sialadenitis: A case report and literature review

Xanthogranulomatous tissue reaction is an uncommon but well-documented process that occurs at many sites in the body. It is most often recognized in the kidney and gallbladder, where its etiology is believed to involve an outflow obstruction. We report the case of a man with a parotid mass that exhibited features consistent with an inflammatory process on fine-needle aspiration biopsy. The mass persisted despite medical management, and the patient subsequently underwent a superficial parotidectomy. Histologic examination of the resected specimen identified a xanthogranulomatous tissue reaction adjacent to a Warthin's tumor. We compare the features of this case with those of the 2 previously reported cases of xanthogranulomatous sialadenitis, and we discuss its possible etiologies.
Do “Hot” Charge-Transfer Excitons Promote Free Carrier Generation in Organic Photovoltaics?

In organic photovoltaics, the role of hot charge-transfer (CT) excitons on free carrier generation is currently under intense debate. In this paper, we carry out first-principles time-dependent density functional theory calculations to examine hot CT dissociation in polymer/fullerene heterojunctions. We reveal that whether or not hot CT states promote charge separation depends on excitation spectral range and crystallinity of the donor and acceptor phases. We find that while the crystallinity of the donor phase underlies the energy dependence of CT exciton dissociation, the crystallinity of the acceptor determines charge separation efficiency. We propose a theory that can reconcile contradictory experimental observations and provide insight into hot CT dissociation. Crucially, the timescale of hot CT dissociation is found to be comparable to the timescale of its relaxation to the lowest-lying CT state, which is localized in all interfacial models considered here.
Organizing graduate medical education programs into communities of practice.

Background : A new organizational model of educational administrative support was instituted in the Department of Medical Education (DME) to better meet increasing national accreditation demands. Residency and fellowship programs were organized into four ‘Communities of Practice’ (CoOPs) based on discipline similarity, number of learners, and geographic location. Program coordinator reporting lines were shifted from individual departments to a centralized reporting structure within the DME. The goal of this project was to assess the impact on those most affected by the change. Methods : This was a mixed methods study that utilized structured interviews and the Organizational Culture Assessment Instrument (OCAI). Eleven members of the newly formed CoOPs participated in the study. Results : Three major themes emerged after review and coding of the interview transcripts: improved group identity, improved availability of resources, and increased opportunity for professional growth. OCAI results indicated that respondents are committed to the DME and perceived the culture to be empowering. The ‘preferred culture’ was very similar to the culture at the time of the study, with some indication that DME employees are ready for more creativity and innovation in the future. Conclusion : Reorganization within the DME of residency programs into CoOPs was overwhelmingly perceived as a positive change. Improved resources and accountability may position our DME to better handle the increasing complexity of graduate medical education. Keywords: medical setting; organizational culture; staff management; residency (Published: 5 October 2016) Citation: Med Educ Online 2016, 21: 31864 - http://dx.doi.org/10.3402/meo.v21.31864
Attraction of Bactrocera cucurbitae and Bactrocera dorsalis (Diptera: Tephritidae) to Beer Waste and Other Protein Sources Laced with Ammonium Acetate

Adult tephritid fruit fly females require protein sources for adequate egg production, and ammonia and its derivatives serve as volatile cues to locate protein-rich food. The attractiveness of beer waste and the commercially available baits Nu-Lure® Insect Bait, Buminal®, and Bugs for Bugs® Fruit Fly Bait with and without ammonium acetate or ammonium carbonate to males and females of Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) and B. cucurbitae (Coquillett) (Diptera: Tephritidae) was quantified in semi-field cage studies in Hawaii. Evaluations also compared the relative attractiveness of the baits to that of the standard bait GF-120® NF Naturalyte® Fruit Fly Bait. Our findings indicate that ammonium carbonate did not exert any effect on the response of B. cucurbitae or B. dorsalis to the protein baits evaluated and that the addition of ammonium acetate to beer waste and to the commercially available bait Bugs for Bugs® can improve bait attractiveness in particular to females of B. cucurbitae. Beer waste laced with ammonium acetate performed as well as the standard fruit fly bait GF-120®. There were variations in the level and type of response between B. cucurbitae and B. dorsalis, and such variability was dependent upon the type of bait being evaluated. For example, there were several instances where baits lacking ammonium acetate (e.g., beer waste and Nu-Lure® for B. cucurbitae; Buminal® for B. dorsalis) were as attractive as GF-120®. Results are discussed in light of potential applications associated with the use of beer waste as a low-cost, readily available material for fruit fly monitoring and suppression.
Serum carotenoid interactions in premenopausal women reveal α-carotene is negatively impacted by body fat:

Increasing body mass indices (BMIs) across the globe reflect pandemic shifts towards habitual positive energy imbalances. Excess body fat in individuals is often associated with high-energy and hig...
Meta-analysis of cognitive-behavioral treatments for adult ADHD.

Objective We conducted a meta-analysis of cognitive-behavioral treatment (CBT) studies for adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), examining effects versus control and effects pre-to-post treatment to maximize the clinical and research utility of findings from this growing literature. Method Eligible studies tested adults meeting criteria for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders ADHD as determined by interview or using a standardized rating scale and measured ADHD symptoms or related impairment at baseline and posttreatment. We analyzed data from 32 studies from published and unpublished sources available through December 2015. Effect size calculations included up to 896 participants. Results Using a random effects model, we found that CBTs had medium-to-large effects from pre- to posttreatment (self-reported ADHD symptoms: g = 1.00; 95% confidence interval [CI: 0.84, 1.16]; self-reported functioning g = .73; 95% CI [0.46, 1.00]) and small-to-medium effects versus control (g = .65; 95% CI [0.44, 0.86] for symptoms, .51; 95% CI [0.23, 0.79] for functioning). Effect sizes were heterogeneous for most outcome measures. Studies with active control groups showed smaller effect sizes. Neither participant medication status nor treatment format moderated pre-to-post treatment effects, and longer treatments were not associated with better outcomes. Conclusions Current CBTs for adult ADHD show comparable effect sizes to behavioral treatments for children with ADHD, which are considered well-established treatments. Future treatment development could focus on identifying empirically supported principles of treatment-related change for adults with ADHD. We encourage researchers to report future findings in a way that is amenable to meta-analytic review. (PsycINFO Database Record
A Review of Von Hippel-Lindau Syndrome

Von Hippel-Lindau syndrome (VHL) is a familial neoplastic condition seen in approximately 1 in 36,000 live births. It is caused by germline mutations of the tumor suppressor gene VHL, located on the short arm of chromosome 3. While the majority of the affected individuals have a positive family history, up to 20% of cases arise from de novo mutations. VHL syndrome is characterized by the presence of benign and malignant tumors affecting the central nervous system, kidneys, adrenals, pancreas, and reproductive organs. Common manifestations include hemangioblastomas of the brain, spinal cord, and retina; pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma; renal cell carcinoma; pancreatic cysts and neuroendocrine tumors; and endolymphatic sac tumors. Diagnosis of VHL is prompted by clinical suspicion and confirmed by molecular testing. Management of VHL patients is complex and multidisciplinary. Routine genetic testing and surveillance using various diagnostic techniques are used to help monitor disease progression and implement treatment options. Despite recent advances in clinical diagnosis and management, life expectancy for VHL patients remains low at 40–52 years. This article provides an overview of the major clinical, histological, and radiological findings, as well as treatment modalities.
Frequency injection interfacing: A novel method for delivering external information to an OFDM receiver physical layer

This work presents a novel method we call: Frequency Injection Interfacing (FII), for OFDM communication systems. With FII, an external system or observer can communicate to an OFDM receiver through a frequency encoder that injects additional frequency content into the received signal. Specifically, the null subcarriers at the edges of the OFDM waveform are turned on or off to represent a binary code word which references a lookup table. OFDM transmitters do not broadcast wireless energy in the OFDM sidebands in order to comply with regulatory policies. To avoid violating transmission laws, FII uses a direct connection between the frequency encoder and OFDM receiver. Because FII can deliver a unique code word per packet in real time, FII could potentially allow new applications and optimizations for OFDM systems, without requiring a separate application program interface. The FII method is validated through experimentation using software defined radios, a GNU Radio IEEE 802.11 receiver, and a COTS vehicle-to-vehicle radio. A packet reception rate above 95% proves FII operates transparently within existing OFDM architectures, furthermore the non-optimized implementation of FII presented in this work reveals that FII could reliably deliver up to 2047 code words with 67% success and zero false alarms.
Multi-objective tradeoff studies of directivity achievable by electrically small nanoloops

Electrically small antennas typically suffer from a low radiation resistance, efficiency and bandwidth. In particular, achieving a high directivity (often called superdirectivity) from these structures is especially challenging, often requiring arrays which are extremely sensitive to mechanical and electrical tolerancing. Nonetheless, it was recently discovered that superdirectivity could be achieved by an electrically small gold nanoloop. Unfortunately, the initial design suffered from poor efficiency. A thicker nanoloop exhibits higher efficiency at the expense of a shift in the frequency range of high directivity to a region where the loop is no longer electrically small. This paper will explicitly show the tradeoffs between size, directivity and gain for nanoloops through a series of multi-objective optimizations.
Improved survival in simultaneous lung-liver recipients and candidates in the modern era of lung allocation

Abstract Background Liver-lung transplantation (LLT) is a rare procedure performed for patients with end-stage liver and lung disease. The lung allocation score (LAS), introduced in 2005, guides lung allocation including those receiving LLT. However, the impact of the LAS on outcomes in LLT is currently unknown. Materials and methods The OPTN/United Network for Organ Sharing STAR file was queried for LLT candidates and recipients from 1988 to 2016. Demographic characteristics before (historic) and after (modern) the LAS were compared. Survival was analyzed with the Kaplan–Meier method and log-rank test. Results In total, 167 candidates were listed for LLT, and 62 underwent LLT. The historic cohort had a higher FEV1% (48.22% versus 29.82%, P = 0.014), higher creatinine (1.22 versus 0.72, P Conclusions Most analyses of LLT have included patients before and after the introduction of the LAS. Our study shows that LLT candidates and recipients before the modern allocation system had distinct baseline characteristics and worse overall survival. Although many factors contributed to recent improved outcomes, these cohorts are significantly different and should be treated as such in future studies.
Video capsule endoscopy — state of the art and indications

Wireless capsule endoscopy represents a major milestone in the evolution of small bowel enteroscopy, and enables visualization of the entire small bowel in a noninvasive manner, without necessity for sedation. Indications for the test include, but are not limited to evaluation of obscure gastrointestinal bleed, Crohn disease, small bowel tumors, polyposis syndromes, and Celiac disease. Modifications of the capsule also facilitate its utilization in screening and surveillance for Barrett’s esophagus, esophageal varices, and colorectal cancer. This article is a review of the indications and recommendations regarding the role of capsule endoscopy in current clinical practice.
Exercise Associated Regulation of Tumor Promoters, Hormones and Cytokines in Cancer Control

Studies of energy balance and cancer show that physical activity reduces the risk of some cancers and, benefits many outcomes in patients with cancer. While the physiological (e.g., cardiovascular, body composition, strength, functional) effects of exercise in the general population are well documented, the beneficial effects of exercise in the cancer patient and potential mediators and moderators of the exercise and cancer relation, as well as mechanisms of action, are not as well defined. Attaining a better understanding of these relations is important for establishing mechanistic based goals for exercise training to achieve optimal benefits for patients with cancer and to prevent cancer. In this chapter, we will review the biologic changes identified in animal model systems that appear to mediate the beneficial effects of exercise in the cancer patient and, then, review the evidence for such changes in these biomarkers in patients with cancer and in select, related groups of non-cancer patients (e.g., postmenopausal women). Although the psychosocial (e.g., quality of life) and aforementioned physiological benefits of exercise are clearly important in cancer patients, the major focus of this chapter is on factors that may potentially alter tumor growth, thereby prolonging survival and increasing the time to recurrence.
Grounding Zone Wedges on the Antarctic Continental Shelf, Weddell Sea

During the 1991 R/V Polar Duke cruise, data were collected along the Weddell Sea margin of the Antarctic Peninsula (Fig. 1). Approximately 2000 km of seismic data were acquired using a 100 in3 water gun, fired at a 6 second shot interval, and an oil-filled streamer. The data were collected in analog format on an electrostatic plotter, and in digital format using Elics® single channel seismic acquisition and processing software. The low-cut filter was set to 20 Hz; the high cut filter was set to 4000 Hz. Ship speeds ranged between 4 to 7 knots. Navigation relied on the GPS, with brief periods of satellite navigation.
Modeling Terrestrial Carbon Cycles at Varying Temporal and Spatial Resolutions

This chapter will illustrate simulation modeling of terrestrial carbon cycles at varying resolutions. I will give three examples from our research showing first, a forest carbon model for a single tree or stand, FOREST-BGC; second a regional ecosystem modeling system, RESSys, for areas of thousands of square kilometers; and finally a simple satellite driven model using the AVHRR Normalized Difference Vegetation Index, NDVI, that can be executed globally. Each modeling logic has advantages for different applications. I will illustrate that the integration of all three models to an organized package provides the power to do carbon cycle modeling at varying spatial and temporal scales with significant versatility and accuracy.
Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio to predict outcome during ipilimumab treatment.

e21008Background: Ipilimumab (IPI) and BRAF inhibitors (BRAFi) improve survival in melanoma, but not all patients will benefit and toxicity can be significant. Pretreatment neutrophil to lymphocyte...
Abstract 2082: The role of cell-cell contacts in the survival of extracellular matrix detached mammary epithelial cells

Proceedings: AACR 103rd Annual Meeting 2012‐‐ Mar 31‐Apr 4, 2012; Chicago, IL Normal epithelial cells require attachment to the extracellular matrix (ECM) in order to proliferate and survive. Binding to the ECM facilitates the activation of pathways responsible for ATP production and cell survival. When detached from the ECM, normal cells will upregulate apoptotic pathways and will be systematically removed. This detachment-induced apoptosis is known as anoikis. ECM detachment in normal epithelial cells disrupts cellular signaling derived from integrin-mediated basal attachment as well as cadherin assisted signaling from lateral cell contacts. Cadherins, primarily E-cadherin, have been shown to be classic tumor suppressor genes and can prevent the proliferation of cells that fail to assume normal epithelial morphology and cell-cell contacts. The loss of E-cadherin endows an increased invasion capacity to breast tumors and regulation of E-cadherin levels are directly mediated by factors (i.e. Slug) that promote epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and metastasis. Cadherin molecules have previously been reported to interact with other receptor tyrosine kinases, such as EGFR (epithelial growth factor receptor), in order to suppress the ability of the receptor to bind ligand, dimerize and elicit downstream signaling. HER2 is an orphan member of the EGFR family of tyrosine kinases and is a potent oncogene found in 30% of all breast cancer tissue. Previous studies in our laboratory have found a direct correlation between upregulation of survival pathways in ECM detached cells and expression of HER2. In this study, we find that the overexpression of HER2 in non-malignant mammary epithelial cells (MCF-10A) results in substantial aggregation of detached cells, the inhibition of caspase activation and a rescue of ATP production. These data suggest that HER2 plays a role in protecting detached cells from anoikis and this activity may be linked to cell-cell adhesion in suspension. We have found that disruption of cell-cell contacts in HER2-expressing MCF-10A cells utilizing methylcellulose can induce caspase activity and diminish global ATP levels. Preliminary studies also reveal a previously uncharacterized interaction between HER2 and E-cadherin that takes place when E-cadherin dimers are disrupted. Thus, the disruption of E-cadherin dimers in cellular aggregates may facilitate the binding of E-cadherin to HER2 in a fashion that compromises downstream survival signaling. These data together suggest a potential role for E-cadherin as a modulator of HER2 activity and further suggest that the loss of E-cadherin via mechanisms like EMT may function as a means to promote ECM-detached tumor cell survival. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 2082. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-2082
Mechanical and biological properties of ZnO, SiO2, and Ag2O doped plasma sprayed hydroxyapatite coating for orthopaedic and dental applications.

Abstract In this study, we explored a ternary dopant system utilizing 0.25 wt% ZnO to induce osteogenesis, 0.5 wt% SiO2 to induce angiogenesis, and 2.0 wt% Ag2O to provide secondary infection control within a plasma assisted hydroxyapatite coating for orthopaedic or dental applications. The objective of this study was to understand the effects of ZnO, SiO2, and Ag2O dopants on the mechanical and biological properties of hydroxyapatite (HA) coatings on titanium (Ti). Coatings were deposited using a 30 kW plasma spray system equipped with a supersonic nozzle to produce above standard coating bond strengths of 24 ± 2 MPa on Ti6Al4V and 22 ± 1 MPa on commercially pure Ti substrates. Antibacterial properties were revealed in vitro against E. coli and S. aureus. The ternary dopant system was implanted in 18 male Sprague-Dawley rats with timepoints of 5 and 10 weeks. By week 5, ZnSiAg-HA produced 32% bone mineralization of 68% total bone formation compared to only 11% bone mineralization of 55% total bone formation in the undoped coating. This system can be employed for replacement surgeries and revision surgeries to reduce healing time and enhance osseointegration. Statement of Significance Total hip replacements increased 124% from 2000 to 2010 with an ever-increasing rate due to the rise in average life span and an escalation in surgeries for young patients. Replacement surgeries come with the risk of rejection, poor integration, and infection. This study incorporates biologically relevant metallic oxides of ZnO, SiO2, and Ag2O within a hydroxyapatite coating on titanium deposited using a radio frequency induction plasma spray. A ternary dopant system has not been explored in the current literature and little is known about these particular dopants in vivo. This proposed system can be employed for replacement surgeries to lower healing time and enhance osseointegration between implant and host tissue.
A phase Ib study of pembrolizumab (Pem) in combination with stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) for resectable liver metastatic MSS colorectal cancer (CRC): A postoperative safety analysis.

e15047Background: Adjunctive therapies are essential to enhance the effect of anti-PD1 therapies for the treatment of microsatellite stable (MSS) colorectal cancer. SBRT is utilized to treat liver ...
Surface-Micromachined Ultrasonic Lamb Wave Devices for Biosensor Applications

Solid-state surface-micromachining techniques and sol-gel deposited lead-zirconate titanate PZT) thin films have been applied for the first time in the fabrication of Lamb wave devices for the detection of reactions catalyzed by enzymes immobilized on surfaces [1].
Nurses' perceptions of high-alert medication administration safety: A qualitative descriptive study.

Aims The aim of this study was to determine nurses' perceptions of supports and barriers to high-alert medication (HAM) administration safety. Design A qualitative descriptive design was used. Methods Eighteen acute care nurses were interviewed about HAM administration practices. Registered nurses (RNs) working with acutely ill adults in two hospitals participated in one-on-one interviews from July-September, 2017. Content analysis was conducted for data analysis. Results Three themes contributed to HAM administration safety: Organizational Culture of Safety, Collaboration, and RN Competence and Engagement. Error factors included distractions, workload and acuity. Work arounds bypassing bar code scanning and independent double check procedures were common. Findings highlighted the importance of intra- and interprofessional collaboration, nurse engagement and incorporating the patient in HAM safety. Conclusions Current HAM safety strategies are not consistently used. An organizational culture that supports collaboration, education on safe HAM practices, pragmatic HAM policies and enhanced technology are recommended to prevent HAM errors. Impact Hospitals incorporating these findings could reduce HAM errors. Research on nurse engagement, intra- and interprofessional collaboration and inclusion of patients in HAM safety strategies is needed.
Enhancing Upland cotton for drought resilience, productivity, and fiber quality: comparative evaluation and genetic dissection.

To provision the world sustainably, modern society must increase overall crop production, while conserving and preserving natural resources. Producing more with diminishing water resources is an especially daunting endeavor. Toward the goal of genetically improving drought resilience of cultivated Upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.), this study addresses the genetics of differential yield components referred to as productivity and fiber quality traits under regular-water versus low-water (LW) field conditions. We used ten traits to assess water stress deficit, which included six productivity and four fiber quality traits on two recombinant inbred line (RIL) populations from reciprocally crossed cultivars, Phytogen 72 and Stoneville 474. To facilitate genetic inferences, we genotyped RILs with the CottonSNP63K array, assembled high-density linkage maps of over 7000 SNPs and then analyzed quantitative trait variations. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences for all traits (p 3.0 detected 21 QTLs associated with productivity and 22 QTLs associated with fiber quality. For fiber traits, strong clustering and QTL associations occurred in c08 and its homolog c24 as well as c10, c14, and c21. Using contemporary genome sequence assemblies and bioinformatically related information, the identification of genomic regions associated with responses to plant stress/drought elevates the possibility of using marker-assisted and omics-based selection to enhance breeding for drought resilient cultivars and identifying candidate genes and networks. RILs with different responses to drought indicated that it is possible to maintain high fiber quality under LW conditions or reduce the of LW impact on quality. The heritable variation among elite bi-parental RILs for productivity and quality under field drought conditions, and their association of QTLs, and thus specific genomic regions, indicate opportunities for breeding-based gains in water resource conservation, i.e., enhancing cotton’s agricultural sustainability.
NSTX-U Global Thermal Analysis for Bakeout and Normal Operation Scenarios

AbstractThe NSTX-U recovery project will deploy new plasma-facing components (PFCs) to meet the updated high heat flux requirements, increased heating power, and longer pulse durations compared wit...