cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Integrated Optics Utilizing GaN-Based Layers on Silicon Substrates

It is now apparent that future generations of fast electronics and compact sensors may need to rely increasingly on integrated optical components. But integration of electronics and photonics in today’s IC’s is challenging. Silicon, the ubiquitous electronic material, is neither ideally suited for most photonic functions nor readily integrated with most of the common photonic materials, such as GaAs. The approach we describe here relies on GaN-based films, which can be grown directly on silicon substrates and hence can be potentially integrated with state-of-the-art Si-based electronics. We have demonstrated the fabrication of GaN structures on silicon wafers ranging in overall size from sub-micron to several millimeters, all containing highly accurate individual features on the nm scale. As proof of concept, we have fabricated GaN optical waveguides and photonic crystals containing optical cavities by patterning GaN membranes grown directly on Si wafers. Our optical cavities were designed to have resonant modes within the spectral region of the broad defect-induced luminescence of GaN. We have measured sharp resonant features associated with these cavities by optically pumping above the GaN band edge, and have compared the data to numerical simulations of the spectra. Our results to date demonstrate the feasibility of fabricating high-quality GaN photonic structures directly on Si wafers, thereby providing a possible path to achieving true integration of electronics and photonics in future generations of IC’s.
Nephrogenic adenofibroma : An unusual renal tumor

Nephrogenic adenofibroma is a recently described subset of tumors from the National Wilms Tumor Study pathology center.' We report a case of this lesion found at partial nephrectomy for an indeterminate renal mass. CASE REPORT A 36-year-old man presented with left flank discomfort and microscopic hematuria. Physical examination was normal, blood pressure was 152/68 mm. Hg and hemoglobin was 15.3 gm./dl. (normal 14 to 18). Excretory urography showed no obstruction but it suggested a left lower pole mass. Ultrasonography and computerized tomography (CT) showed a 2 cm. right lower pole mass that was hyperechoic on ultrasound and hyperdense on noncontrast CT (fig. 1). Ultrasound confirmed the cystic nature of the left lower pole mass seen on excretory urography and CT. Cystoscopy was normal. Right lower pole partial nephrectomy was performed. Intraoperatively frozen sections suggested a neoplasm of uncertain type with a positive resection margin after wedge excision. Completion of lower pole nephrectomy yielded a negative margin. Followup CT at 6 and 12 months showed no evidence of disease. Microscopic hematuria has resolved. The specimen consisted of a tan nodular 2 X 1.7 X 1.2 cm. mass. Microscopically the tumor was nonencapsulated but circumscribed. It comprised multifocal nests of tubulopapillary and papillary configurations of benign appearing embryonal epithelium surrounded by stroma composed of benign appearing fibroblast-like cells (fig. 2). Numerous psammoma bodies were noted. Immature cells were cuboidal or columnar with round to oval nuclei containing peppery chromatin and inconspicuous nucleoli surrounded by scant amphophilic cytoplasm. Cell borders were indistinct, no mitotic figures were identified and nuclei overlapped. The tumor was markedly vascularized and many vascular spaces were lined with endothelial cells. Some larger blood vessels had thick walls and lacked muscular organization. Neither necrosis nor inflammatory exudate was noted. There was no evidence of collecting duct carcinoma or cysts in the tumor. Immunohistochemistv study was not performed.
Monte Carlo Simulation of Sunlight Transport in Solar Trees for Effective Sunlight Capture

Solar photovoltaic (PV) cells arranged in complex 3D leaflike configurations—referred to as a solar tree—can potentially collect more sunlight than traditionally used flat configurations. It is hypothesized that this could be because of two reasons. First, the 3D space can be utilized to increase the overall surface area over which the sunlight may be captured. Second, as opposed to traditional flat panel configurations where the capture efficiency decreases dramatically for shallow angles of incidence, the capture efficiency of a solar tree is hampered little by shallow angles of incidence due to the 3D orientation of the solar leaves. In this paper, high fidelity Monte Carlo simulation of radiation transport is conducted to gain insight into whether the above hypotheses are true. The Monte Carlo simulations provide local radiation flux distributions in addition to global radiation flux summaries. The studies show that except for near-normal solar incidence angles, solar trees capture sunlight more effectively than flat panels—often by more than a factor of 5. The Monte Carlo results were also interpolated to construct a daily sunlight capture profile both for midwinter and midsummer for a typical North American city. During winter, the solar tree improved sunlight capture by 227%, while in summer the improvement manifested was 54%.
Phorbol Ester Effects on Topoisomerase II Activity and Gene Expression in HL-60 Human Leukemia Cells with Different Proclivities toward Monocytoid Differentiation

We examined the effects of phorbol ester treatment on topoisomerase II-mediated events in two human leukemia cell lines with different proclivities toward phorbol ester-induced monocytoid differentiation. HL-60 is the parent line that will terminally differentiate; 1E3 is a derived line that will not terminally differentiate. Within 24 h of phorbol ester treatment, etoposide-induced, topoisomerase II-mediated DNA cleavage declined 10-fold, whereas 4'-(9-acridinylamino)-methanesulfon-m-anisidide- induced DNA cleavage declined 3-fold in HL-60. In phorbol-treated 1E3, etoposide-induced DNA cleavage declined only 2-fold, whereas 4'-(9-acridinylamino)methanesulfon-m-anisidide-induced cleavage was barely affected. There was a 2- to 3-fold decline in topoisomerase II activity within the nuclear extracts from phorbol-treated HL-60 cells but not from phorbol-treated 1E3 cells. Immunoblotting experiments with anti-topoisomerase II antibodies indicated that phorbol treatment produced a structural change in the immunoreactive topiosomerase II in HL-60 nuclear extracts but produced no change in 1E3 topoisomerase II. Phorbol ester treatment also produced a decline in the level of topoisomerase II gene expression in HL-60 but not in 1E3 cells. By contrast, the cytotoxicity of etoposide in both lines was decreased following phorbol treatment. Thus, phorbols may uncouple the mechanisms linking drug-induced, topoisomerase II-DNA cleavable complex stabilization with drug-induced cytotoxicity, particularly in 1E3.
LIDAR-based FX-RLS feedforward control for wind turbine load mitigation

An adaptive feedforward controller based on a filtered-x recursive least square (FX-RLS) algorithm and a non-adaptive feedforward controller based on a zero-phase-error tracking control (ZPETC) technique have been designed to augment a collective pitch proportional-integral (PI) feedback controller for wind turbine rotor speed regulation and component load reduction when the turbine is operating in above rated wind speed. The feedforward controllers use wind speed measurements provided by a commercial light detection and ranging (LIDAR) system. Simulations show that augmenting the baseline PI feedback control with ZPETC feedforward control improves the blade loads but worsens the tower loads. The FX-RLS feedforward algorithm gives better performance than both the baseline PI feedback and the ZPETC feedforward in both tower (fore-aft and side-to-side) and blade (flapwise and edgewise) bending moment mitigation, even with a realistic 1 Hz LIDAR data update rate.
Integration of Deoxyribonuclease-Treated DNA in Bacillus subtilis Transformation

Normal preparations of B. subtilis DNA have weight average native molecular weights of 10 to 30 x 106. For any given preparation the upper and lower 95% size limits may differ by a factor of ten or more. Single-stranded molecular weights indicate an average of 1 to 4 breaks per single strand of the native DNA. The reduction in transforming activity and viscosity following DNAase I digestion can be accounted for by a direct relationship between the transforming activity of a DNA and its single-stranded molecular weight. Uptake studies with DNAase I treated heavy (2H15N 3H) DNA show that single strand breaks inhibit integration less than transformation. A provisional estimate of the size of the integrated region based on correlating the single strand size of the donor-recipient complex with the donor-recipient density differences following alkali denaturation came to 1530 nucleotides. Using a competent, nonleaky thymine-requiring strain of B. subtilis grown in 5-BU medium before and after transformation, it was shown that (a) No detectable amount of DNA synthesis is necessary for the initial stages of integration, (b) Cells which have recently been replicating DNA are not competent. (c) Cells containing donor DNA show a lag in DNA replication following transformation, (d) When donor DNA is replicated it initially appears in a density region between light and hybrid. This indicates that it includes the transition point formed at the time of reinitiation of DNA synthesis in the presence of 5-BU following transformation. A model is proposed in which donor DNA is integrated at the stationary growing point of the competent cell, which is in a state of suspended DNA synthesis.
Population differences in otolith chemistry have a genetic basis in Menidia menidia

The number of studies using otolith chemistry as a tool to reconstruct the environmental history of fishes and to detect population structure continues to rise, despite the fact that factors influe...
The Changing Face of Anemia in Infancy

Introduction The pattern of anemia in infancy is changing in North America. The major factors contributing to anemia include iron endowment at birth, adequacy of dietary iron, frequency of infection, and the genetic background of a child. The characteristics of all of these factors are changing in the pediatric population. As more premature infants survive, their inadequate birth endowment of iron results in iron deficiency at an earlier age. Because of widespread use of iron-fortified formulas or iron supplementation with breastfeeding, iron deficiency now causes less anemia in the first year of life. As iron nutrition of infants has improved, anemia associated with infection has been identified more frequently. Increased work force participation of mothers has resulted in more exposure to infections by infants in child care. An increase in the percentage of children who are of Asian and African genetic backgrounds has increased the prevalence of inherited hemoglobin disorders among children. Newborn screening for hemoglobinopathies has resulted in more frequent identification of these disorders. Decline in the socioeconomic status of children in the United States adds to the complexity of this picture. More than one factor often produces anemia in an infant from a poor family, and the anemia may have a greater impact on the psychosocial development of a child from a low-income background.
Improving Pedagogy through the Use of Dynamic Excel Presentations in Financial Management Courses.

This paper discusses and illustrates the use of dynamic Excel presentations to improve learning in Financial Management courses. Through the use of such presentations, multiple and varied examples of important principles in Financial Management, which would ordinarily take an excessive amount of time to cover, can be considered within the time span of a single class. Two applications of these techniques are presented in this paper: (1) Time Value of Money -- Classic Retirement Annuity analysis and (2) Capital Structure Decisions -- EBIT-EPS Analysis. By using these Excel techniques to cover multiple examples under different initial conditions and assumptions, the authors contend that students gain a broader understanding of these financial problems and their solutions, than would otherwise be possible.
Functional debugging of equation-based languages

Functional debugging of equation-based languages visualizes states and variables of a running simulation through a functional model to create an implementation independent understanding of a cyber-physical process. The functional debugging architecture includes three components: a functional editor, a synthesizer, and a simulation runtime. Functional editing is performed in a visual programming environment to author a functional model of the system under design. A simulation synthesizer applies the functional model to generate a corresponding simulation model and generates a mapping model that associates the one or more functions with one or more executable simulation components. The simulation model using the one or more executable simulation components is executed to calculate a dynamic behavior of the system under design.
Isolation and Composition of Human Plasma Apolipoproteins

The biochemist’s attempts to understand the structure and function of the human plasma lipoproteins have expanded greatly in recent years due to their possible role in the development of atherosclerosis. Five of the major apolipoproteins have been sequenced and our view of the structural organization of lipoproteins has seen considerable refinement. All of these achievements depend, in one way or another, upon the investigators skill in isolating both intact lipoproteins and apolipoproteins in a highly purified and homogeneous state. For this reason, we present in this chapter a description of some of the tried and proven methods for the purification of the lipoproteins and their component apolipoproteins and lipids. This presentation will not include the purification of abberant lipoproteins; the less frequently used or exotic techniques will be mentioned only to provide a reference for those who may be interested in the more specialized methods. Three reviews of lipoproteins provide ample source material on those areas of lipoprotein structure and function which are outside the scope of this volume (1–3).
Midbrain combinatorial code for temporal and spectral information in concurrent acoustic signals.

Midbrain combinatorial code for temporal and spectral Information in concurrent acoustic signals. All vocal species, including humans, often encounter simultaneous (concurrent) vocal signals from c...
More Lonely Numbers

In Tracking the Value of Regulation, Bob Hahn and Erin Layburn would have the federal government produce more lonely numbers. All of this would be for the sake of a good cause: the belief that more numbers would increase the rationality of federal regulation. But the generation of more lonely numbers would not contribute much toward that goal.
Leadership Development on the Wards: The Present Paucity

Poor leadership produces an inhibitory educational environment and fatigue among its members and subsequent risks for patient safety. Strong leadership skills result in better mentorship, clinical education, and patient safety. The current lack of leadership development among residents and faculty in medical schools fosters weak team dynamics and leadership skills in young physicians. To successfully teach leadership, a top-down approach is needed in which attending physicians and chief residents are effective leaders. With the ability to demonstrate empathy and effectively communicate with junior residents, students, and other staff, a strong leader in clinical teaching aims to foster team building and individual development with an underlying goal of strengthening each person’s ability to effectively cope with unforeseen change, inevitable miscommunication, and ethical dilemmas on and off the wards. Although it is understandable that attending doctors and senior residents might oppose taking on yet another responsibility, being a good leader in teaching hospitals needs to be recognized as essential for all clinical educators.
Neutrophil dysfunction. Case studies and review.

The polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN), or neutrophil, plays a central role in the defense of the body against acute bacterial infection. PMNsalso migrate to sites of tissue necrosis and actively participate in the early stages of repair. They may have tumoricidal activity and thereby play a role in the immune surveillance which is thought to be important in controlling neoplastic disease. Two cases which illustrate defects in neutrophil motility and oxidative metabolism are described. A number of intrinsic neutrophil defects are reviewed.
Photochemical formation of hydroxyl radical from effluent organic matter.

The photochemical formation of hydroxyl radical (HO•) from effluent organic matter (EfOM) was evaluated using three bulk wastewater samples collected at different treatment facilities under simulated sunlight. For the samples studied, the formation rates of HO•(RHO•) were obtained from the formation rate of phenol following the hydroxylation of benzene. The values of RHO• ranged from 2.3 to 3.8 × 10–10 M s–1 for the samples studied. The formation rate of HO• from nitrate photolysis (RNO3HO•) was determined to be 3.0 × 10–7 MHO• MNO3–1 s–1. The HO• production rate from EfOM (REfOMHO•) ranged from 0.76 to 1.3 × 10–10 M s–1. For the wastewater samples studied, REfOMHO• varied from 1.5 to 2.4 × 10–7 MHO• MC–1 s–1 on molarcarbon basis, which was close to HO• production from nitrate photolysis. The apparent quantum yield for the formation of HO• from nitrate (ΦNO3–HO•a) was determined as 0.010 ± 0.001 for the wavelength range 290–400 nm in ultrapure water. The apparent quantum yield for HO• formation in EfOM (Φ...
Downregulation of FGFRL1 contributes to the development of the diaphragmatic defect in the nitrofen model of congenital diaphragmatic hernia.

INTRODUCTION The nitrofen model of Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH) displays a diaphragmatic defect of the Bochdalek-type and has been widely used to investigate the pathogenesis of CDH. However, the exact pathomechanism of the diaphragmatic defect is still poorly understood. Fibroblast growth factor (FGF) receptor-like 1 (FGFRL1), a member of the FGF receptor family, plays a key role in physiological diaphragmatic development. FGFRL1 is expressed in the fetal diaphragm at low levels in early gestation and its expression steadily increases, becoming most pronounced in later gestational stages. It has been reported that FGFRL1 homozygous null mice have thin, partially amuscular diaphragms and die at birth due to respiratory failure. The aim of this study was to investigate the hypothesis that FGFRL1 gene expression in the diaphragm is downregulated during the later gestational stages in the nitrofen CDH model. MATERIAL AND METHODS Timed pregnant rats were exposed to either olive oil or 100 mg nitrofen on day 9 of gestation (D9). Cesarean section was performed on D18 or D21. Fetal diaphragms (n=40) were micro-dissected and divided into CDH group and controls. Total RNA was extracted from the diaphragms and the mRNA levels of FGFRL1 were determined using real-time PCR. Immunohistochemistry was performed to evaluate diaphragmatic protein expression of FGFRL1. Student's t-test and Mann-Whitney test were used, where appropriate. Statistical significance was considered for p<0.05. RESULTS Relative mRNA expression levels of FGFRL1 were significantly decreased in the CDH group compared to controls on D18 (3.63 ± 1.65 vs. 6.04 ± 3.12, p<0.05) and D21 (1.36 ± 1.01 vs. 2.57 ± 1.34, p<0.05). Immunoreactivity of FGFRL1 was markedly decreased in the diaphragms of the CDH group compared to controls on D18 and D21. CONCLUSION Our data provide strong evidence that downregulation of the FGFRL1 gene during the late stages of gestation may contribute to the development of the diaphragmatic defect in nitrofen-induced CDH.
Attendants at Tree Swallow Nests. I. Are Attendants Helpers at the Nest

Identification des individus observes autour des nids pendant la saison de reproduction; ils ne participent pas au nourrissage des jeunes
Surface and subsurface damage detection in cement-based materials using electrical resistance tomography

Cement-based materials are widely used in infrastructure facilities. However, often the degradation of structures leads to the failures earlier than designed service life. Thus, non-destructive testing techniques are urgently needed to evaluate the health information of the structures. In this paper, the implementation of Electrical Resistance Tomography (ERT) was investigated. This low cost, radiation free and easy to perform modality is based on measuring the electrical properties of the material under test and using that to evaluate the existence of defects in that material. It uses a set of boundary potentials and injected current to reconstruct the conductivity distribution. An automatic measurement system was developed and surface damages as well as subsurface damages on mortar specimens were investigated. The reconstructed images were capable to show the presence and the location of the damages.
Associations between Charlson Comorbidity Index and surgical risk severity and the surgical outcomes in advanced-age patients

The Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) has not been assessed for elderly (95 years of age or older) surgical patients. We examined the association between the CCI and life-threatening complications and 30-day mortality rate. Medical records of patients 95 years old or older from 2004 through 2008 were reviewed for major postoperative morbidity or death. Logistic regression analyses of age, sex, the CCI, American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Surgical Risk Stratification, and surgical urgency were performed to identify associations with poor surgical outcome. One hundred eighty-seven patients were identified (mean [standard deviation] age, 96.6 [1.9] years; median [interquartile range] CCI, 4 [2 to 6]). Ninety patients (48.1%) underwent moderate-risk and 20 (10.7%) underwent high-risk surgical procedures. Twenty patients (10.7%) died within 30 postoperative days and 20 others had major morbidity. Only moderate-risk (P = 0.045) and high-risk surgical procedures (P = 0.001) were associated with poor outcome. Patients of advanced age have high rates of morbidity and death after surgical procedures. These events are associated with surgical risk stratification and are independent of patient comorbidities. Risks, benefits, and alternatives must be considered carefully and discussed with patients and their families before deciding to proceed with high-risk surgery.
Irreversible Enzyme Inhibition Kinetics and Drug–Drug Interactions

This chapter describes the types of irreversible inhibition of drug-metabolizing enzymes and the methods commonly employed to quantify the irreversible inhibition and subsequently predict the extent and time course of clinically important drug-drug interactions.
Fat and cholesterol intakes of white adults in Columbia, Maryland. Upper-middle socioeconomic level subjects

In a cross-sectional study of white adults with upper-level socioeconomic status (in Columbia, Maryland), intakes of total, saturated, and polyunsaturated fat and of cholesterol were assessed. The intakes were compared with dietary recommendations made by the Inter-Society Commission for Heart Disease Resources, the American Heart Association, and the Senate Select Committee. Only moderate dietary changes were needed for a menu modification that conforms to the dietary recommendations for men. If the group studied reflects the impact of public health nutrition education, areas in need of attention seem to be a reduction in the amount and a change in the quality of dietary fat.
A qualitative analysis of medication use variance reports.

Article-at-a-Glance Background This report of a process change utilized a qualitative approach to data analysis to improve medication use safety in a large hospital. The two goals were to design a strategy to analyze the qualitative data and to use that strategy to uncover previously unclassified medication use variance patterns that could be prevented. A multidisciplinary team performed the analysis in an effort to improve the quality and yield of the approach. Methods All medication use variance, incident, and event reports from Yale-New Haven Hospital during April-June 2000 were collected (N = 264). A 20% random sample of the reports was distributed to a five-member evaluation group (a pharmacist, two nurses, and two physicians) for independent qualitative analysis and coding. An initial coding framework was produced using a consensus process. This coding framework was applied to another sample, and the consensus and coding processes were repeated until no new domains were identified. Results Ten general medication use variance domains were determined. In addition, 21 subdomains among the various general domains were determined. Discussion Utilizing a multidisciplinary team and a qualitative strategy of analysis improved patient safety efforts. This combination led to the discovery of new variance domains, causes, and opportunities to intervene and ultimately prevent medication use variances. This analytic approach is widely applicable, adaptable, and dynamic. The design and results of this report improve on a strictly quantitative approach to medication use variance analysis. The approach employed by this report will be used to improve medication use safety within the Yale-New Haven Health System.
Obstacles to Clear Signalling

Previous chapters have discussed two of the major influences on the likely success of a conciliatory initiative, the context within which the initiative occurs and the characteristics of the initiative itself, the latter affecting the recognisability and the credibility of the move. Two further important sets of factors are likely to have a major influence on the likely initiation of some conciliatory move and its probable impact.
An investigation of internal flame structure in porous media combustion via X-ray Computed Tomography

Abstract X-ray Computed Tomography (XCT) measurements are performed to characterize the internal volumetric flame structure within a Porous Media Burner (PMB). X-ray attenuation measurements are obtained using a multi-zone silicon carbide PMB combusting a radiodense Kr/O 2 /N 2 /CH 4 mixture designed to enhance X-ray contrast. Time-averaged tomographic reconstructions of the X-ray attenuation field are used to assess internal PMB flame structure. Several key internal physical phenomena are observed, including heat recirculation within the combustion region, spatial inhomogeneity within the reaction zone, and preheating of gas in the upstream porous section. Further, the theory of XCT measurements applied to combustion systems is developed and implemented to arrive at 3D implied temperature field measurements at high spatial resolution. Implied temperature results are shown to exhibit quantitative agreement with those of a known 1D volume-averaged model for porous media combustion as well as with standard thermocouple measurements. These results shed light on internal thermophysical processes within PMBs while demonstrating the significant potential of XCT in obtaining quantitative, spatially resolved field data within optically inaccessible combustion environments.
Need for Cognition as a Mediating Variable Between Aggressive Communication Traits and Tolerance for Disagreement

This study examined the need for cognition as a mediator between aggressive communication traits and tolerance for disagreement. Previous research suggests that argumentativeness is a positive predictor of tolerance for disagreement, while verbal aggressiveness is a negative predictor of tolerance for disagreement. Our findings indicate that need for cognition positively mediates the relationship between argumentativeness and tolerance for disagreement, as well as verbal aggressiveness and tolerance for disagreement.
Influence of bone invasion on outcomes after marginal mandibulectomy in squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity

Abstract Introduction Marginal mandibulectomy (MM) is indicated for oral cavity squamous cell carcinomas (OCSCC) that abut or minimally erode the mandible without gross invasion. Successful implementation of MM is predicated on accurate patient selection and appropriate adjuvant treatment based on well-known host and tumor characteristics. The incidence of microscopically diagnosed bone involvement in MM specimens and its implications on outcomes have however not been reported in large contemporary series. Purpose To report the incidence of bone involvement and analyze its influence on oncologic outcomes in selected patients who underwent MM in treatment of OCSCC. Method A retrospective cohort study was performed on a consecutive series of previously untreated patients requiring MM, at a tertiary care cancer center, between 1985 and 2012 (n = 326). The median age was 64 years and 59% were male. The majority of patients (67%) had a primary tumor of the floor of the mouth or lower alveolus, 80% were clinically staged T1-2, and 31% were clinically N+. Postoperative radiation (PORT) was used in 27% and chemoradiation (POCTRT) in 8% of patients who had microscopic bone invasion. The median follow up period was 55 months and endpoints of interest were local and regional recurrence free (LRFS and RRFS) and disease specific (DSS) survival. Results Microscopic bone invasion was present in 15% of patients (n = 49). Among these, cortical invasion was present in 32, medullary in 13, and it was not specified in 4. Eight patients had microscopic positive bone margins. Positive bone margins were associated with medullary bone involvement (p Conclusion Microscopic bone involvement does not adversely influence outcomes but medullary bone involvement does confer a higher risk of positive bone margins. MM and appropriate adjuvant treatment is an effective strategy for treatment of OCSCC in selected patients with primary tumors adherent to or in proximity to the mandible.
Orbital fracture repair outcomes with preformed titanium mesh implants and comparison to porous polyethylene coated titanium sheets.

Abstract Background Restoration of orbital volume after internal orbital fractures can prevent enophthalmos. A variety of allografts are commonly used including titanium mesh with and without porous polyethylene coating. Some controversy exists over the use of uncoated titanium mesh in the orbit. Newer products contoured to the three dimensional orbital anatomy aim to improve reestablishment of the complex orbital shape though studies of outcomes with their use are limited. Methods A retrospective chart review was performed to evaluate surgical outcomes in all patients who underwent orbital fracture repair with DePuy/Synthes titanium MatrixMIDFACE prefabricated implants (PFTi) as compared with porous polyethylene/titanium hybrid implants (PPETi) including Stryker Medpor Titan, MTB, and BTB implants. Incidence of reoperation, diplopia, and movement restriction between PFTi and PPETi groups and the risk ratio of the above outcomes between implant types were compared. Results A total of 464 orbital implants were reviewed. Patients were divided by implant type with 195 patients receiving a PFTi implant and 269 patients receiving PPETi implant. (PFTi) and 269 had placement of a porous polyethylene/titanium hybrid implant. Despite statistically significant increased probability of utilization in more complex and delayed fractures, the PFTi implant showed no significant difference in complication profile or reoperation rate compared to the more commonly used PPETi. Conclusions PFTi implants, designed to replicate the native orbital shape, have similar surgical outcomes and no difference in complication profile compared to standard porous polyethylene/titanium implants hybrid plates.
Design Automation of Cyber-Physical Systems: Challenges, Advances, and Opportunities

A cyber-physical system (CPS) is an integration of computation with physical processes whose behavior is defined by both computational and physical parts of the system. In this paper, we present a view of the challenges and opportunities for design automation of CPS. We identify a combination of characteristics that define the challenges unique to the design automation of CPS. We then present selected promising advances in depth, focusing on four foundational directions: combining model-based and data-driven design methods; design for human-in-the-loop systems; component-based design with contracts, and design for security and privacy. These directions are illustrated with examples from two application domains: smart energy systems and next-generation automotive systems.
The North Will Rise Again: Pensions, Politics and Power in the 1980’s

(1979). The North Will Rise Again: Pensions, Politics and Power in the 1980’s. Journal of Economic Issues: Vol. 13, No. 3, pp. 814-816.
Amyloid heart disease: genetics translated into disease-modifying therapy

Given increased awareness and improved non-invasive diagnostic tools, cardiac amyloidosis has become an increasingly recognised aetiology of increased ventricular wall thickness and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Once considered a rare disease with no treatment options, translational research has harnessed novel pathways and led the way to promising treatment options. Gene variants that contribute to amyloid heart disease provide unique opportunities to explore potential disease-modifying therapeutic strategies. Amyloidosis has become the model disease through which gene therapy using small interfering RNAs and antisense oligonucleotides has evolved.
A biomimetic gelatin-based platform elicits a pro-differentiation effect on podocytes through mechanotransduction

Using a gelatin microbial transglutaminase (gelatin-mTG) cell culture platform tuned to exhibit stiffness spanning that of healthy and diseased glomeruli, we demonstrate that kidney podocytes show marked stiffness sensitivity. Podocyte-specific markers that are critical in the formation of the renal filtration barrier are found to be regulated in association with stiffness-mediated cellular behaviors. While podocytes typically de-differentiate in culture and show diminished physiological function in nephropathies characterized by altered tissue stiffness, we show that gelatin-mTG substrates with Young's modulus near that of healthy glomeruli elicit a pro-differentiation and maturation response in podocytes better than substrates either softer or stiffer. The pro-differentiation phenotype is characterized by upregulation of gene and protein expression associated with podocyte function, which is observed for podocytes cultured on gelatin-mTG gels of physiological stiffness independent of extracellular matrix coating type and density. Signaling pathways involved in stiffness-mediated podocyte behaviors are identified, revealing the interdependence of podocyte mechanotransduction and maintenance of their physiological function. This study also highlights the utility of the gelatin-mTG platform as an in vitro system with tunable stiffness over a range relevant for recapitulating mechanical properties of soft tissues, suggesting its potential impact on a wide range of research in cellular biophysics.
Optimality of Eigen-Based Algorithms with Fully Correlated Sources*

Abstract Preprocessing performed in some “optimal” fashion on data received by a uniform linear sensor array, is shown to improve performance of eigen-based techniques for parameter estimation and detection. For the sake of generality, it is assumed that a coherency class exists in the observed process. The optimal filters for both detection and parameter estimation are derived and applied to the received data.
P-002 Automated and quantitative assessment of pial collateral recruitment on digital subtraction angiography during acute ischemic stroke

Introduction This work developed and evaluated an automated and quantitative assessment of pial arterial supply to an ischemic territory based on digital subtraction angiography during MCA or ICA occlusion. Methods Pretreatment anteroposterior arteriograms from patients who underwent conventional arteriography for endovascular treatment of m1 MCA or carotid terminus occlusions acquired at 6 frames a second were analyzed using a custom made MATLAB program. Five semiautomatically placed regions of interest (ROIs) fanning across the ischemic territory were placed within the affected hemisphere on each arteriogram (figure 1). Ten angiographic parameters were calculated which effectively represent indirect surrogates for transit time, cerebral blood flow and cerebral blood volume. Reproducibility was tested across varying frame rate and repeated arteriograms using Bland-Altman statistic. Each parameter in each ROI was then normalized to a normally perfused territory on the same angiogram to derive a value relative to normal tissue. The derived values across the ROIs were then used to derive an overall index of change in each parameter. using the exponential: FNorm(r) = eβ(r−1) where r is the ROI index, β is the parameter of exponential response for the particular feature F, and FNorm is the normalized parametric value. The exponential response parameter β is used to automatically determine a patient’s pial index. The index values were then compared to manually derived pial collateral scores. ANOVA analysis was used to assess performance of the features for the task of distinguishing patients with favorable pial collaterals. Results A total of 24 arteriograms in 14 patients were included. Features corresponding to CBV and CBF demonstrated favorable interclass correlation (for reproducibility) compared to features corresponding to transit time. There were statistically significant differences (p=0:00625) in all features between patients with poor and good collateral recruitment, however, the parameters demonstrating the greatest separation were those for arterial phase blood flow and arterial arrival time. In part this is related to artifacts intrinsic to projection two dimensional angiography. Conclusion We have devised a computerized quantitative and automated feature-based method which can reproducibly assess pial collateral recruitment in acute ischemic stroke and found that it could distinguish patients with good pial collaterals. We believe that such a methodology will help reduce any potential subjectivity associated with current grading scales for pial collateral recruitment. Disclosures G. Christoforidis: 1; C; NIH R01-NS093908, AHA GRNT-20380798. C. Haddad: 1; C; AHA GRNT-20380798. T. Carroll: 1; C; NIH R01-NS093908, AHA GRNT-20380798. M. Giger: 1; C; AHA GRNT-20380798.
Origin of Fracture-Resistance to Large Volume Change in Cu-Substituted Co3O4 Electrodes

The electrode materials conducive to conversion reactions undergo large volume change in cycles which restrict their further development. It has been demonstrated that incorporation of a third element into metal oxides can improve the cycling stability while the mechanism remains unknown. Here, an in situ and ex situ electron microscopy investigation of structural evolutions of Cu-substituted Co3 O4 supplemented by first-principles calculations is reported to reveal the mechanism. An interconnected framework of ultrathin metallic copper formed provides a high conductivity backbone and cohesive support to accommodate the volume change and has a cube-on-cube orientation relationship with Li2 O. In charge, a portion of Cu metal is oxidized to CuO, which maintains a cube-on-cube orientation relationship with Cu. The Co metal and oxides remain as nanoclusters (less than 5 nm) thus active in subsequent cycles. This adaptive architecture accommodates the formation of Li2 O in the discharge cycle and underpins the catalytic activity of Li2 O decomposition in the charge cycle.
Blue Catfish Density and Biomass in a Tidal Tributary in Coastal Virginia

Abstract Ictalurus furcatus (Blue Catfish) provide trophy recreational fishing opportunities in Virginia's tidal rivers; however, potential ecological impacts are of concern. We used mark-recapture techniques and electrofishing in 2007 and 2014 to estimate Blue Catfish density and biomass in Powell Creek. A 66% decline in fish density occurred between 2007 (708 fish/ha) and 2014 (239 fish/ha) and biomass declined by 31% over the same timeframe (266 kg/ha to 185 kg/ha). These findings are supported by long-term monitoring trends in the tidal James River. Here, we provide: (1) data relative to temporal shifts in abundance and biomass, (2) data for use in subsequent population-dynamics analyses, and, (3) points of caution when assuming temporally static populations for introduced species. We demonstrated the feasibility of low-frequency electrofishing and mark—recapture methods to estimate Blue Catfish abundance, and recommend use of the approach where catfish abundance estimates are important.
Digestibility, apparent mineral absorption, and voluntary intake by horses fed alfalfa, tall fescue, and caucasian bluestem

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.), low-endophyte (< 5%) tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea Schreb.), and caucasian bluestem (Bothriochloa caucasica [Trin.] C.E. Hubbard) were fed as chopped hay to six Arabian geldings (BW 441 kg; SE 2) in intake and digestibility experiments to determine nutritional value for horses at maintenance. Each experimental design was a replicated Latin square. Alfalfa was higher in DM and CP digestibility, IVDMD, apparent absorption of Ca, K, and S, and voluntary intake than the grasses (P < .05). Caucasian bluestem was higher in Zn but was lower in CP, TNC, Mg, P, K, S, and Cu concentrations than tall fescue. Crude protein digestibility and apparent absorption of Mg, K, and S were higher (P < .05) for tall fescue than for caucasian bluestem. Geldings fed alfalfa for ad libitum intake had higher serum concentrations of vitamin A, blood urea nitrogen, P, S, and Cu than geldings fed grass hays. Serum Zn was higher (P < .05), whole blood Se tended to be higher (P < .06), and BUN was lower (P < .05) in geldings fed caucasian bluestem than in those fed tall fescue. All forages met requirements for CP, Ca, Mg, K, and Fe when fed for ad libitum intake but were deficient in Cu for horses at maintenance. Caucasian bluestem was borderline in CP and was deficient in P but was the only forage that met the Zn requirement for the horses. Based on these results, caucasian bluestem could be a useful hay for horses but may require supplementation of CP and P.
Testing software using order-based genetic algorithms

A major strength of GAs is the ability to search large problem spaces, given a suitable fitness function. The feasibility of exploiting this strength of GAs to find software errors was explored by focusing on software APIs and commands that have completed development, hence are assumed to contain no, or very few, errors. A testing facility was developed in which a GA is used to generate API tests. The design of a fitness function which usefully guides the GA selection to find API errors, was the challenge. Initial results using the testing facility found two previously unreported exceptions in the test target API implementation, demonstrating this approach does appear to have potential.
The Ethics and Aesthetics of Care

This article is positioned at the intersection of linguistic, medical, and psychological anthropology and reviews scholarship on the communicative processes that constitute moral/ethical care. Vary...
A low-cost and high-strength Ti-Al-Fe-based cast titanium alloy for structural applications

Abstract A cost-effective α-β titanium casting alloy, Ti-6Al-5Fe-0.05B-0.05C, 1 has been designed using Calculation of Phase Diagrams (CALPHAD) method and the workhorse alloy Ti-6Al-4 V as a baseline. The substitution of iron for vanadium significantly reduces the raw material cost and improves the castability compared to the Ti-6Al-4 V alloy. The very fine α phase in the microstructure of the new alloy, likely due to Fe partitioning, provides exceptionally high strength (1023 MPa yield strength and 1136 MPa ultimate tensile strength) and reasonable ductility (3.71% elongation) for structural applications.
Reinforcement learning for autonomous preparation of Floquet-engineered states: Inverting the quantum Kapitza oscillator

I demonstrate the potential of reinforcement learning (RL) to prepare quantum states of strongly periodically driven nonlinear single-particle models. The ability of Q-learning to control systems far away from equilibrium is exhibited by steering the quantum Kapitza oscillator to the Floquet-engineered stable inverted position in the presence of a strong periodic drive within several shaking cycles. The study reveals the potential of the intraperiod (micromotion) dynamics, often neglected in Floquet engineering, to take advantage over pure stroboscopic control at moderate drive frequencies. Without any knowledge about the underlying physical system, the algorithm is capable of learning solely from tried protocols and directly from simulated noisy quantum measurement data, and is stable to noise in the initial state and sources of random failure events in the control sequence. Model-free RL can provide new insights into automating experimental setups for out-of-equilibrium systems undergoing complex dynamics, with potential applications in quantum information, quantum optics, ultracold atoms, trapped ions, and condensed matter.
Speaking truth in power: Scientific evidence as motivation for policy activism

Unelected administrative policymakers rely on the domain expertise and technical integrity of scientific information to maintain perceptions of legitimacy. The necessity that regulatory policymakers rely on sound scientific evidence has been formalized at the US federal level through executive order. Yet, the practical impact of scientific evidence on public support and mobilization for policies remains unclear. We investigate whether individual policy activists are more likely to participate in regulatory policymaking when a policy recommendation is substantiated by scientific evidence. We investigate how two separate groups within the public—policy advocates and policy experts—may be affected differentially by scientific evidence. In collaboration with a nationally active policy advocacy group, we conducted a randomized messaging experiment in which members of the group’s e-mail list are sent one of three versions of a policy advocacy message. Results indicate that reference to evidence published in peer reviewed scientific sources increased activism by roughly 1 percentage point among general activists, and decreased activism by 4-5 percentage points among scientific experts.
Renal artery Doppler compared with the cerebral placental ratio to identify fetuses at risk for adverse neonatal outcome.

Background: Current clinical practice incorporates an umbilical artery resistance index or a ratio of the middle cerebral artery (MCA PI) to the umbilical artery pulsatility index (UA PI) known as ...
Metastatic well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumor in the breast: A case report and literature review

Abstract Metastatic well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumors in the breast are rare and can be mistaken as invasive breast carcinoma due to their overlapping clinical, histological or radiological features. A 49-year-old female presented for evaluation of a left breast mass. Her past medical history was significant for an ileal well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumor with liver metastasis. Histology of breast biopsy shows nests of small uniform tumor cells with regularly dispersed chromatin. The tumor cells are positive for synaptophysin, chromogranin, CDX2, and ER (weak); and negative for CK7 and GATA3. These immunophenotypic features, in conjunction with the clinical history and cellular morphology, support the diagnosis of metastatic well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumor with ileal origin. Considering her asymptomatic breast lesion and indolent liver metastasis, she was offered close follow up and elective lumpectomy. This case reinforces the importance of recognizing a metastatic neuroendocrine tumor in the breast to ensure appropriate treatments.