cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Architectural considerations for a new generation of protocols

The current generation of protocol architectures, such as TCP/IP or the ISO suite, seem successful at meeting the demands of todays networks. However, a number of new requirements have been proposed for the networks of tomorrow, and some innovation in protocol structuring may be necessary. In this paper, we review some key requirements for tomorrow's networks, and propose some architectural principles to structure a new generation of protocols. In particular, this paper identifies two new design principles, Application Level Framing and Integrated Layer Processing. Additionally, it identifies the presentation layer as a key aspect of overall protocol performance.
An Analog Neural Network Inspired by Fractal Block Coding

We consider the problem of decoding block coded data, using a physical dynamical system. We sketch out a decompression algorithm for fractal block codes and then show how to implement a recurrent neural network using physically simple but highly-nonlinear, analog circuit models of neurons and synapses. The nonlinear system has many fixed points, but we have at our disposal a procedure to choose the parameters in such a way that only one solution, the desired solution, is stable. As a partial proof of the concept, we present experimental data from a small system a 16-neuron analog CMOS chip fabricated in a 2m analog p-well process. This chip operates in the subthreshold regime and, for each choice of parameters, converges to a unique stable state. Each state exhibits a qualitatively fractal shape.
Multicasting with advantaged resources

Satellite links and other "advantaged" resources are increasingly becoming available in tactical networks. When such resources are used to multicast data, significant reductions in traffic and delay are possible, though not guaranteed. Furthermore, use of these resources is relatively expensive and should be efficiently allocated. This paper presents ARDUP, the Advantaged Resource Discovery and Use Protocol, which re-forms the existing terrestrial route to include the advantaged resource in an efficient manner. It addresses the cost-effectiveness of the advantaged resource by introducing a method of global cost assessment of the multicast paths. This assessment provides a measure of the relative benefit - if any - that using the advantaged resource will bring. The paper also describes the admission control mechanism by which access to the advantaged resource is managed. Results from an OPNET simulation study are then presented to illustrate the performance and benefits of the protocol.
Simulation of a Dynamic Theory of Reasoned Action

BackgroundThe Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA) is invoked frequently when social science scholars examine messages, affect, cognition, and action. Nevertheless, the fact that the TRA is a cross-sectional model limits its utility as an explanatory mechanism for those who study relationships among these variables as they change over time. This essay addresses this limitation by developing three versions of a Dynamic Theory of Reasoned Action (DTRA).MethodSimulations were conducted to examine the properties of these varying DTRA models. The extent of autoregression was varied in these simulations, and the subsequent effects on the size and stability of the model parameters, the fit of the cross-sectional TRA, and the distributional properties of the variables that comprise the model were assessed.ResultsResults indicate that in the absence of an external shock (such as a persuasive message), these models reach equilibrium, and that trials to equilibrium increase as the autoregression parameters increase. The ...
Pepper Prices Before Da Gama

The opinion that spice prices rose in Europe in the century before 1492 and that that had something to do with Europe's oceanic expansion is remarkably persistent, in spite of the blow delivered to it by A. H. Lybyer more than a half-century ago. A distinct drop, however, in the price of spices, and particularly of pepper, between the decades 1420-1430 and 1440-1450 is indicated by a recent study of Antwerp prices, which thus reinforces the suggestion of older scattered figures from Navarre, England, and Klosterneuburg (Vienna). Pepper fell about 50 percent in that interval and did not return to its former high level until after 1498. In view of Venice's preeminent position in the trade in those decades, Venice is the obvious place to look for the source of a decline of prices generally in the West. Wholesale prices of pepper at Venice, 1363-1510, drawn mainly from diaries, merchants' account books, and letters, are shown in the accompanying Table 1. This explains the fall in prices in northern and western Europe. After selling at between 83 and 157 ducats per cargo in 1411-1426, pepper prices at Venice fell to 50 in 1432 and drifted lower in the 1440's and 1470's, occasionally even going below 40. Rarely did the price rise above 55 ducats a cargo until the interruption of Venetian voyages by the war with the Ottoman Turks in 1499.
Enzymatic assay for subnanomole amounts of L-fucose.

Abstract An enzymatic assay capable of detecting subnanomole quantities of l -fucose has been developed. For this purpose, the NADH produced by the fucose dehydrogenase-catalyzed oxidation of l -fucose is analyzed by the enzymatic cycling technique of O. H. Lowry, J. V. Passoneau, D. W. Schulz, and M. K. Rock (1961, J. Biol. Chem.236, 2746–2755). Using this method 0.1 nmol of fucose can be determined with a coefficient of variation of 3%. Much lower limits of sensitivity are achievable with technique.
Beam-Solid Interactions of Pyrolytic Graphite as a Function of Angle of Cut Surface

A study to examine beam-solid interaction as a function of the cut surfaces of pyrolytic graphite samples (0, 30, 60, and 90 degrees relative to the basal plane) was made using a high intensity, carbon dioxide laser beam operating at a wavelength of 10.6 μm. Crystal growth of redeposited carbon and impurities in the burn area as well as a melt on the burn edge were observed and examined using Scanning Electron (SEM) and Scanning Auger Microscopy (SAM). Similarities and differences relating to the structure of the material were further investigated using X-ray diffraction. Thermal transport properties as a function of angle were also examined.
Negotiating data access in federated database systems

A protocol is presented for negotiating access to data in a federated database. This protocol deals with several important aspects of data sharing in an environment where databases belonging to different organizations coexist and cooperate. It is based on the concept of quasicopies. These are cached values that are allowed to deviate from the central value in a controlled fashion. The degree of consistency of a quasicopy is established by the entity where the quasicopy is to reside. Two techniques are presented that can be used for numerical data and for copies that rely on version numbers. It is believed that these two ideas encompass many of the interesting cases in practice. However, it is also possible to fine tune the estimation of this function once the exact semantics of the data involved are known. >
Resurrection Appearances of Jesus as After-Death Communication

Abstract: Scientific research into after-death communication began at the end of the 19th century. During this early period, psychical researcher James Hyslop and theologian Rudolph Otto wrote about the resurrection of Jesus as a visionary / spiritual experience -- as opposed to a physical, "bodily" resurrection. More recently, liberal theologians and religious experience researchers have also favored this view. The purpose of this article is to: (a) underscore the fact that the resurrection of Jesus as an after-death communication is solidly based in the only first-hand account of Paul and the verified secondary accounts of Peter and James (I Cor 15:5-8) in the New Testament, and (b) demonstrate that, although a physical resurrection is implied by the Gospel writers because of the empty tomb, the appearance stories of Jesus are more in accord with the phenomenology of modern after-death communications by Jesus, other divine figures, and ordinary people.
Shaykh Abdullahi al-Qutbi and the pious believer's dilemma: local moral guidance in an age of global Islamic reform

Using the writings of the religious scholar `Abdullahi al-Qutbi, this article examines the ‘transregional’ nature of Muslim reformist discourse in the early twentieth century and the way in which the trajectories of individuals, objects and ideas cut across the largely imaginary boundaries traditionally used to divide the Middle East and Africa. African Muslims have maintained intimate ties with their non-African brethren across space through various intellectual, economic and political relationships throughout the history of Islam. However, they have also remained entwined across time via engagement with the more or less commonly accepted canon of the faith and what Talal Asad has termed the ‘discursive tradition.’ This essay demonstrates the persistence of these processes through the age of European colonialism into the early twentieth century. But equally important is the way in which the increasingly elaborate and rapid networks of empire created in the nineteenth century facilitated and intensified t...
A new look at the FDI–income–energy–environment nexus: Dynamic panel data analysis of ASEAN

Abstract The main focus of this paper is to estimate the effects of foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows, income and energy consumption on CO 2 emissions using panel data of five ASEAN countries over 1981–2010. The results based on the pooled mean group (PMG) estimator of dynamic panels show that FDI tends to increase CO 2 emissions, supporting evidence of the pollution haven hypothesis. We also find that income and energy consumption have a detrimental impact on reducing CO 2 emissions.
Michigan Local Government Leaders’ Views on Employee Pay and Benefits

This report presents Michigan local government leaders’ evaluations of their jurisdictions’ employee pay and fringe benefit rates. Findings in the report are based on the statewide survey waves of the Michigan Public Policy Survey (MPPS), referencing those conducted each spring from 2011 through 2014.
Swelling of constrained rubber layers: Effect on free energy of detachment

The degree of swelling of a rubber layer by a compatible liquid has been calculated for cases when the layer is constrained, for example when it is bonded to a rigid substrate. The stored energy residing in swollen layers is also computed. From these results the amount of energy is determined that becomes available if a bonded layer separates from a substrate and then becomes free to swell further. The released energy is shown to be quite high, of the order of 10 MJ/m 3 in a representative case. Attention is drawn to the importance of the layer thickness when this energy is applied to bond rupture. For layers having a thickness of the order of 1 mm or greater, the available energy is greater than the intrinsic strength of the bond or of the swollen elastomer itself. In accord with this conclusion, soft rubber layers, sandwiched between and bonded to flexible but inextensible backings, are observed to separate spontaneously and then tear away from the backing when swollen by a compatible liquid. And layers that are still attached to the backing become sharply curved before tearing loose, in rough agreement with the theoretical predictions.
ADAMTS13 meets MR, then what?

In this issue of Blood , Sorvillo and colleagues demonstrate that a macrophage mannose receptor (MR) on antigen-presenting cells facilitates uptake of ADAMTS13 antigen.[1][1] The findings provide the first hint on how ADAMTS13 antigen may be endocytosed, processed, and presented to immune T cells.
HIS BUNDLE PACING TO BYPASS LEFT BUNDLE BRANCH BLOCK: THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PRE-PACING QRS AXIS AND PACING-INDUCED QRS NORMALIZATION

His Bundle (HB) pacing to bypass left bundle branch block (LBBB) is increasingly used to achieve electrical synchrony. Based on His-Purkinje System anatomy and the theory of longitudinal dissociation, extreme left axis deviation (LAD) with LBBB could be due to escape of left posterior fascicular
Inhibition of E-cadherin is associated with down-regulation of members of the miR-200 family but not with promoter methylation in human breast cancer cell lines.

Abstract #6017 Background: Increasing evidence indicates the fundamental role of epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) in breast cancer progression and this is viewed as an essential early step in tumor cell invasion and metastasis. One of the pivotal events of EMT is down-regulation of E-cadherin. Recent findings have demonstrated the importance of the miR-200 microRNA family in the regulation of E-cadherin and EMT. In view of these findings, we examined the relationship between expression of members of the miR-200 family and status of E-cadherin levels in various human breast cancer cell lines. Materials and Methods: Using quantitative real-time PCR analysis, we analyzed the expression of miR-200b,miR-200c, and miR-141 in 15 human breast cancer cell lines. Additionally, we measured the level of ZEB1, ZEB2, and E-cadherin proteins using Western blot analysis and E-cadherin promoter methylation by methylation-specific PCR. Results: We found a substantial down-regulation of miR-200b,miR-200c, and miR-141 in the breast cancer cell lines. The extent of down-regulation was correlated with metastatic potential of cells. The down-regulation of members of the miR-200 family was associated with up-regulation of ZEB1 and ZEB2, transcriptional repressors of E-cadherin, and a subsequent decrease in the E-cadherin levels. More importantly, inhibition of E-cadherin expression was not due to its promoter hypermethylation. Treatment of breast cancer cells with demethylating agent 5-aza-29-deoxycytidine resulted in over-expression of miR-200b and miR-200c, increase of the level of E-cadherin, and diminished metastatic properties of cancer cells.Discussion: Previous studies have revealed the important role of promoter methylation-related inhibition of E-cadherin in EMT in human breast cancer. However, the transcriptional silencing of E-cadherin is not always related to promoter hypermethylation, which indicates the existence of other mechanisms in E-cadherin down-regulation. In the present study, we demonstrated the crucial role of members of the miR-200 family in up-regulation of ZEB1 and ZEB2 proteins leading to subsequent E-cadherin down-regulation in human breast cancer cell lines. The extent of down-regulation of the miR-200 family was dependent of cancer stage and was associated with metastatic potential of cancer cell lines. This suggests that expression of miR-200 may be a powerful diagnostic marker determining breast cancer stage and cancer invasive phenotype. More importantly, the results indicate the great potential for reversing the invasive phenotype of cancer cells by up-regulation of miR-200 microRNAs. Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(2 Suppl):Abstract nr 6017.
Abstract 1358: Are physician recommendations for BRCA 1/2 testing among breast cancer patients appropriate? A population based study.

Purpose: To evaluate the rates and predictors of physician recommendation for BRCA 1/2 testing in breast cancer patients. Patients and Methods: Women aged 18-64 diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in 2007 in Pennsylvania completed a survey on family history of cancer, physician treatment recommendations, and BRCA 1/2 testing (N=2258). Based on age at diagnosis and family history, women were categorized as high, moderate, or low risk for BRCA 1/2 mutations. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess the odds of physician recommendation for BRCA 1/2 testing by risk group, age at diagnosis, demographics, and tumor characteristics. Results: Nearly 25% of participants were at high risk for carrying a BRCA 1/2 mutation based on age at breast cancer diagnosis and family history of breast and/or ovarian cancer. Physician recommendations for BRCA 1/2 testing were strongly associated with risk of carrying a BRCA 1/2 mutation, with 53% of women at high risk reporting a testing recommendation compared to 9% of women at low risk. In addition, physician recommendations were strongly correlated with use of testing in all risk groups. Among women at high risk of mutation, lack of a recommendation for BRCA 1/2 testing was more common among women who were older, had lower income, and were employed. Conclusion: Although BRCA 1/2 testing recommendations appear to be appropriately correlated with mutation risk among women with breast cancer, a significant proportion of breast cancer patients who meet criteria for BRCA 1/2 testing may not be receiving recommendations for such testing from their providers. Citation Format: Anne Marie McCarthy, Mirar Bristol Demeter, Tracey Fredricks, Kaijun Liao, Judy A. Shea, Peter Groeneveld, Susan M. Domchek, Katrina Armstrong. Are physician recommendations for BRCA 1/2 testing among breast cancer patients appropriate? A population based study. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 1358. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-1358
Expanded Functionality of Polymers Prepared Using Metal-Free Ring-Opening Metathesis Polymerization

Photoredox-mediated metal-free ring-opening metathesis polymerization (MF-ROMP) is an alternative to traditional metal-mediated ROMP that avoids the use of transition metal initiators while also enabling temporal control over the polymerization. Herein, we explore the effect of various additives on the success of the polymerization in order to optimize reaction protocols and identify new functionalized monomers that can be utilized in MF-ROMP. The use of protected alcohol monomers allows for homo- and copolymers to be prepared that contain functionality beyond simple alkyl groups. Several other functional groups are also tolerated to varying degrees and offer insight into future directions for expansion of monomer scope.
A NEW APPROACH TO GAIN FLOWING PARAMETERS OF FINE RESERVOIR NUMERICAL SIMULATION——MICRO NETWORK SIMULATION

It is the key and also very difficult point to gain flowing parameters of fine reservoir simulation. Based on the hierarchy and textural feature of geological events, stochastic simulation in micro networks is used in this article to acquire the flowing parameters by transforming macro phenomena into a study in micro-mechanism. In the paper, stochastic network model built with oriented percolation is flexible and convenient. Different kinds of pore structures and wettability of sand rock can be easily structured using the stochastic network model. The model can truly present the micro-character of porous media, and it can also be used to simulation flowing parameters quickly and effectively. It has been proved with case study that stochastic simulation in networks is an effective new approach to gain flowing parameter of small dimensions in fine reservoir simulation.
Mood disorders in patients with epilepsy: epidemiology and management.

Patients with epilepsy are at high risk for depression because of an incompletely understood combination of factors that may be both psychosocial and neurological. Interictal depression in patients with epilepsy is an undertreated condition, in part because of concern regarding drug interactions and the risk of exacerbating seizures with antidepressant treatment. Bipolar disorder is not described as occurring with a higher than expected frequency in the population with epilepsy, but high rates of depression and suicide are well recognised, highlighting the need for more emphasis on antidepressive treatment in this group of at-risk patients. Neurological factors, including site and lateralisation of seizure focus, may be important for the development of depression, with left-sided seizure foci having a higher association with depressive symptoms. Forced normalisation may be a factor in the paradoxical onset of depression in patients with epilepsy whose seizures suddenly become well controlled by anti-seizure treatment. Lowering of folic acid levels by some antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) may also influence the expression of depression in patients with epilepsy. New AEDs continue to emerge as beneficial treatments themselves for mood disorders, with lamotrigine, gabapentin and, to a lesser extent, topiramate having clinical trials data to support their use in patients with bipolar disease. Similar positive data are available for vagal nerve stimulation. Mood effects of AEDs can be complicated, however, as many of these drugs (e.g. tiagabine) have also been reported to cause depression as an adverse effect. Electroconvulsive therapy in depressed patients with epilepsy requires special consideration.The selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and antidepressants that act at multiple receptors (e.g. nefazodone, venlafaxine) are the most appropriate treatments for depressed patients with epilepsy. Among these agents, citalopram has a low risk of interactions with AEDs. Bupropion, clomipramine and maprotiline are associated with a greater risk of seizures compared with other antidepressants and consequently should be used with caution in the treatment of depression in patients with epilepsy.
SU-G-JeP4-09: Impact of Interfractional Motion On Hypofractionated Pencil Beam Scanning Proton Therapy for Prostate Cancer

Purpose: To investigate the impact of anatomy/setup variations on standard vs. hypofractionated anterolateral pencil beam scanning (PBS) proton therapy for prostate cancer. Methods: Six prostate cancer patients treated with double-scattering proton therapy, who underwent weekly verification CT scans were selected. Implanted fiducials were used for localization, and endorectal balloons for immobilization. New PBS plans using combination of lateral and anterior-oblique (AO) (±35 deg) beams were created. AO beams were added to spare the femoral heads during hypofractionation. Lateral beams delivered 50.4 Gy(RBE) to prostate plus 5-15mm of seminal vesicles and AO beams 28.8 Gy(RBE) to prostate, in 44 fractions. PTV was laterally expanded by 2.5% to account for range uncertainty. No range margins were applied for AO beams, assuming delivery with in-vivo range verification. Field-specific apertures with 1.2cm margin were used. Spot size was ∼9.5mm sigma for 172MeV @isocenter in air. Plans were optimized as single-field-uniform-dose with ∼5% maximum non-uniformity. The planned dose was recomputed on each weekly CT after aligning the fiducials with the simulation CT, scaled and accumulated via deformable image registration. Hypofractionated treatments with 12 and 5 fractions were considered. Equivalent doses were calculated for prostate (α/β= 1.5Gy), bladder and rectum (α/β= 3Gy). Results: The biological equivalent prostate dose was 86.2 and 92.9 Gyeq for the hypofractionation scenarios at 4.32 and 7.35 Gy/fx, respectively. The equivalent prostate D98 was degraded by on average 2.7 Gyeq for standard, and 3.1 and 4.0 Gyeq for the hypofractionated plans after accumulation. Differences between accumulated and planned Dmean/D2/EUD were generally reduced when reducing the number of fractions for bladder and rectum. The average Dmean/D2/EUD differences over all patients and organs-at-risk were 0.74/4.0/9.23, 0.49/3.64/5.51, 0.37/3.21/3.49 Gyeq for 44, 12 and 5 fractions. Conclusion: Hypofractionation makes proton therapy of prostate more susceptible to interfractional motion-induced target dose degradation compared to the standard fractionation.
What’s in Store: The Darker Side of Medical Research

Now, having provided some thoughts on the positive aspects of pursuing a career in research, we will explore the flip side—all those potentially awful things you will need to digest and contend with as you slowly establish yourself and, then, hopefully succeed in a research career.
Nanofabrication of thin polymer films

Publisher Summary Surface structure and behavior of fiber materials are of utmost importance for the properties of fibers and textiles in processing and use, since friction, abrasion, wetting, adhesion, adsorption, and penetration phenomena are involved. In order to obtain textile materials with the desired performance, the fiber surface is often modified with polymer layers before use. Numerous surface modifications involving oxidation, reduction, elimination, addition, cyclization and condensation, and grafting of macromolecules have been described in the literature. Among them, the grafting technique has several advantages over others, including easy and controllable introduction of new polymer chains with a high surface density, precise localization of the chain at the surface, and long stability of the grafted layers. There are several major parameters that control the grafted layer properties: grafting density, chain length, polydispersity, and the chemical composition of the chains. This chapter discusses the synthesis and characterization of the nanothick, chemically grafted polymer films (polymer brushes) on inorganic and polymeric substrates, including polymer fibers. The synthesis has been conducted employing the recently developed macromolecular anchoring layer approach. The chapter also presents examples of the application of the polymer grafting technique for the generation of hydrophobic, hydrophilic, and switchable fibrous materials.
Reconfigurable X-Band 4×4 Butler array in 32nm CMOS SOI for angle-reject arrays

Introducing reconfigurable spatial filtering prior to ADC in digital beamforming (DBF) receiver (RX) arrays can improve the RX tolerance for in-band out-of-beam jammers. Such spatial filtering can be achieved using a Butler matrix that provides multibeam outputs. In this paper, an integrated 4×4 reconfigurable X-Band Butler matrix is designed in SOI CMOS to provide multibeam outputs with frequency tunability. The hybrid couplers that constitute the Butler matrix can also be configured to have <−15dB coupling ratio to create a thru-mode for the matrix. A prototype 4×4 Butler matrix using compact couplers is implemented in 32nm SOI with measured 9GHz to 13GHz frequency tuning range and ∼−2.5dB loss per coupler (die occupies 0.64 mm2). Measurements also demonstrate desired multibeam formation and spatial filtering.
Sub-micron Cu/SSZ-13: Synthesis and application as selective catalytic reduction (SCR) catalysts

Abstract For the first time, sub-micron Cu/SSZ-13, obtained by modifying an existing synthesis procedure, was shown to be an effective and stable catalyst for selective catalytic reduction of NO. Characterization of the materials with X-ray diffraction, N2-physisorption and 27Al MAS NMR shows that hydrothermal aging, which simulates SCR reaction conditions, is more destructive for smaller particles in a sodium form. After Cu exchange, however, the catalytic performance and hydrothermal stability for Cu/SSZ-13 is independent of the particle size. In particular, a clear positive correlation is found between remaining tetrahedral framework Al and isolated Cu-ion concentrations in aged Cu/SSZ-13 catalysts of comparable Al and Cu contents. This indicates that (1) isolated Cu-ion and paired framework Al configurations display remarkable hydrothermal stabilities; and (2) paired-Al contents can be varied via modifying the synthesis procedures, which appear to have a more critical influence on stabilizing isolated Cu-ions during harsh hydrothermal aging than the particle size. This study is of high interest for applications in vehicular DeNOx technologies where high loadings of active species on wash coats can be achieved by using sub-micron Cu/SSZ-13.
Endoisomorphisms and character triple isomorphisms

Abstract This paper concerns aspects of Clifford Theory of finite groups. In earlier papers, Turull proved that if two finite groups yielded the same element of the Brauer–Clifford group, then there was an endoisomorphism from one group to the other, and furthermore, that associated with each endoisomorphism there was an essentially unique correspondence of modules over many different fields from one group to the other. The paper adapts the definition of Character Triple Isomorphism so that it involves ordinary and Brauer characters, and it preserves fields of definition, Schur indices, decomposition numbers, and blocks. It is proved that each endoisomorphism yields exactly one character triple isomorphism. Character triple isomorphisms can be composed, restricted, produced by direct sums, extension of fields, and these operations have their parallel for the endoisomorphisms. One goal of the paper is to provide tools for the study of the character theory of finite groups in an accessible way suitable for applications.
On the conformational stability of the smallest RNA kissing complexes maintained through two G·C base pairs

Two identical 5'GACG3' tetra-loop motifs with different stem sequences (called H2 and H3) are found in the 5' end region of Moloney Murine Leukemia Virus (MMLV) genomic RNA. They play important roles in RNA dimerization and encapsidation through two identical tetra-loops (5'GACG3') forming a loop-to-loop kissing complex, the smallest RNA kissing complex ever found in nature. We examined the effects of a loop-closing base pair as well as a stem sequence on the conformational stability of the kissing complex. UV melting analysis and gel electrophoresis were performed on eight RNA sequences mimicking the H2 and H3 hairpin tetra-loops with variation in loop-closing base pairs. Our results show that changing the loop-closing base pair from the wildtype (5'A·U3' for H3, 5'U·A3' for H2) to 5'G·C3'/5'C·G3' has significant effect on the stability of the kissing complexes: the substitution to 5'C·G3' significantly decreases both thermal and mechanical stability, while switching to the 5'G·C3' significantly increases the mechanical stability only. The kissing complexes with the wildtype loop-closing base pairs (5'A·U3' for H3 and 5'U·A3' for H2) show different stability when attached to a different stem sequence (H2 stem vs. H3 stem). This suggests that not only the loop-closing base pair itself, but also the stem sequence, affects the conformational stability of the RNA kissing complex.
Exparel/Peripheral Catheter Use in the Ambulatory Setting and Use of Peripheral Catheters Postoperatively in the Home Setting

Purpose of Review With the increasing number of ambulatory surgeries being performed, regional anesthesia has become an increasingly popular anesthetic modality, and many choices exist to provide efficient, effective quality perioperative analgesia. In this paper, we will review the various regional anesthesia options in addition to the advantages and disadvantages of each. Lastly, we will discuss liposomal bupivicaine, a long acting local anesthetic, and its future role in the anesthesiologist’s armamentarium. The aim of the publication is to provide a general overview of regional anesthesia as well as to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this modality. Additionally, we sought to review the basics of liposomal bupivicaine as well as the relevant literature.
The ultrasound appearance of an unusual fetal pericardial cyst.

We describe the prenatal and postnatal sonographic findings and postnatal course in the first reported patient with a posterior mediastinal pericardial cyst. We then review and discuss current knowledge about the management of prenatally diagnosed cystic structures of the pericardium. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2017;
Effect of the PREPARE Website vs an Easy-to-Read Advance Directive on Advance Care Planning Documentation and Engagement Among Veterans: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance Documentation rates of patients’ medical wishes are often low. It is unknown whether easy-to-use, patient-facing advance care planning (ACP) interventions can overcome barriers to planning in busy primary care settings. Objective To compare the efficacy of an interactive, patient-centered ACP website (PREPARE) with an easy-to-read advance directive (AD) to increase planning documentation. Design, Setting, and Participants This was a comparative effectiveness randomized clinical trial from April 2013 to July 2016 conducted at multiple primary care clinics at the San Francisco VA Medical Center. Inclusion criteria were age of a least 60 years; at least 2 chronic and/or serious conditions; and 2 or more primary care visits; and 2 or more additional clinic, hospital, or emergency room visits in the last year. Interventions Participants were randomized to review PREPARE plus an easy-to-read AD or the AD alone. There were no clinician and/or system-level interventions or education. Research staff were blinded for all follow-up measurements. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome was new ACP documentation (ie, legal forms and/or discussions) at 9 months. Secondary outcomes included patient-reported ACP engagement at 1 week, 3 months, and 6 months using validated surveys of behavior change process measures (ie, 5-point knowledge, self-efficacy, readiness scales) and action measures (eg, surrogate designation, using a 0-25 scale). We used intention-to-treat, mixed-effects logistic and linear regression, controlling for time, health literacy, race/ethnicity, baseline ACP, and clustering by physician. Results The mean (SD) age of 414 participants was 71 (8) years, 38 (9%) were women, 83 (20%) had limited literacy, and 179 (43%) were nonwhite. No participant characteristic differed significantly among study arms at baseline. Retention at 6 months was 90%. Advance care planning documentation 6 months after enrollment was higher in the PREPARE arm vs the AD-alone arm (adjusted 35% vs 25%; odds ratio, 1.61 [95% CI, 1.03-2.51]; P = .04). PREPARE also resulted in higher self-reported ACP engagement at each follow-up, including higher process and action scores; P Conclusions and Relevance Easy-to-use, patient-facing ACP tools, without clinician- and/or system-level interventions, can increase planning documentation 25% to 35%. Combining the PREPARE website with an easy-to-read AD resulted in higher planning documentation than the AD alone, suggesting that PREPARE may increase planning documentation with minimal health care system resources. Trial Registration clinicaltrials.gov Identifier:NCT01550731
Sub-wavelength Plasmonic Graphene-based Slot Electro-optic Modulator

We proposed a novel structure for plasmonic graphene modulator. Extinction ratio (ER) larger than 1 dB/um is shown using single layer graphene. Also, by engineering more layers of graphene, an even higher ER is demonstrated.
Fifty Shades of Transplantation Tolerance: Beyond a Binary Tolerant/Non-Tolerant Paradigm

Purpose of Review It has long been considered that tolerance in a transplant recipient is a binary all-or-none state: either the graft is accepted without immunosuppression identifying the recipient as tolerant, or the recipient rejects the graft and is not tolerant. This tolerance paradigm, however, does not accurately reflect data emerging from animal models and patients and requires revision.
Critical Theory, Curricular Transformation and Feminist Mainstreaming*:

This paper examines critical theory, especially the work of Antonio Gramsci, in relation to feminist curricular change efforts in teacher education. It is contended that women's studies is potentia...
The Neurologic Assessment in Neuro-Oncology (NANO) Scale as an Assessment Tool for Survival in Patients With Primary Glioblastoma.

Background The Neurologic Assessment in Neuro-Oncology (NANO) scale is a standardized objective metric designed to measure neurological function in neuro-oncology. Current neuroradiological evaluation guidelines fail to use specific clinical criteria for progression. Objective To determine if the NANO scale was a reliable assessment tool in glioblastoma (GBM) patients and whether it correlated to survival. Methods Our group performed a retrospective review of all patients with newly diagnosed GBM from January 1, 2010, through December 31, 2012, at our institution. We applied the NANO scale, Karnofsky performance score (KPS), Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) scale, Macdonald criteria, and the Response Assessment in Neuro-Oncology (RANO) criteria to patients at the time of diagnosis as well as at 3, 6, and 12 mo. Results Initial NANO score was correlated with overall survival at time of presentation. NANO progression was correlated with decreased survival in patients at 6 and 12 mo. A decrease in KPS was associated with survival at 3 and 6 mo, an increase in ECOG score was associated only at 3 mo, and radiological evaluation (RANO and Macdonald) was correlated at 3 and 6 mo. Only the NANO scale was associated with patient survival at 1 yr. NANO progression was the only metric that was linked to decreased overall survival when compared to RANO and Macdonald at 6 and 12 mo. Conclusion The NANO scale is specific to neuro-oncology and can be used to assess patients with glioma. This retrospective analysis demonstrates the usefulness of the NANO scale in glioblastoma.
PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS OF VARIOUS BULK MILK TANKS1 2

Studies indicate that power required for ice bank bulk milk tanks averaged about 1.0 kw-hr per cwt. of milk while direct expansion tanks averaged 0.65. Both compare favorably with 2.0 for mechanica...
Speckle reduction in laser illuminated endoscopy using adversarial deep learning

Endoscope size is a major design constraint that must be managed with the clinical demand for high-quality illumination and imaging. Existing commercial endoscopes most often use an arc lamp to produce bright, incoherent white light, requiring large-area fiber bundles to deliver sufficient illumination power to the sample. Moreover, the power instability of these light sources creates challenges for computer vision applications. We demonstrate an alternative illumination technique using red-green-blue laser light and a data-driven approach to combat the speckle noise that is a byproduct of coherent illumination. We frame the speckle artifact problem as an image-to-image translation task solved using conditional Generative Adversarial Networks (cGANs). To train the network, we acquire images illuminated with a coherent laser diode, with a laser diode source made partially- coherent using a laser speckle reducer, and with an incoherent LED light source as the target domain. We train networks using laser-illuminated endoscopic images of ex-vivo, porcine gastrointestinal tissues, augmented by images of laser-illuminated household and laboratory objects. The network is then benchmarked against state of-the-art optical and image processing speckle reduction methods, achieving an increased peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) of 4.1 db, compared to 0.7 dB using optical speckle reduction, 0.6 dB using median filtering, and 0.5 dB using non-local means. This approach not only allows for endoscopes with smaller, more efficient light sources with extremely short triggering times, but it also enables imaging modalities that require both coherent and incoherent sources, such as combined widefield and speckle ow contrast imaging in a single image frame.
Evaluation of lysophosphatidic acid in vaginal fluid as a biomarker for ovarian cancer: A pilot study

Abstract There remains a need to differentiate between women with a benign or a malignant adnexal mass prior to surgery. As part of an ongoing evaluation of vaginal fluid compounds as potential tumor biomarkers we evaluated whether vaginal lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) predicted the subsequent diagnosis of a malignant adnexal mass. In this prospective pilot study vaginal fluid was obtained from 100 post-menopausal women referred for evaluation of a suspicious adnexal mass and tested for LPA by ELISA. Clinical data and serum CA125 results were obtained only after completion of all laboratory testing. Twenty eight of the women were subsequently diagnosed with an ovarian malignancy, four had a borderline tumor and 68 had a benign diagnosis. Among women with a malignant ovarian mass, 11 (39.3%) had an endometrioid adenocarcinoma +/− Clear cell tumor components, 6 (21.4%) had a high grade serous carcinoma, 3 (10.7%) had a mucinous tumor, 2 each (7.1%) had a malignant mixed mesodermal or a granulosa tumor and 1 each (3.6%) had a Clear cell tumor, a mixed cell tumor, leimyosarcoma or metastatic adrenal tumor. Compared to the median vaginal LPA level in women with benign lesions (1.5 μM), LPA was significantly elevated only in women with endometrioid ovarian cancer (7.9 μM) (p = 0.0137). Of the 6 endometrioid tumors in which values for both plasma CA125 and vaginal LPA were available 5 were positive only for LPA while one was only CA125 positive. Detection of LPA in vaginal secretions may be of value for the noninvasive diagnosis of endometrioid ovarian malignancies in post-menopausal women.
The problem of pain: Additive analgesic effect of tramadol and buprenorphine in a patient with opioid use disorder.

AbstractBackground: There is a paucity of published literature on the optimal treatment of pain in patients on buprenorphine treatment (BT) for opioid use disorder. Using this case report, we hope ...
Using Telehealth to address disparities in cognitive, language, and emotion regulation problems in young children: A case illustration using the INvesT model.

Over the past decade, there has been a rise in the prevalence of developmental disabilities. Early diagnosis and access to healthcare services are essential for children with developmental delays to optimize development. For families living in poverty, accessing specialized assessment/intervention services for children with developmental disabilities is often a formidable task. In this study, we provide preliminary evidence for the implementation of a developmental risk assessment screening questionnaire using a telehealth format to address the gap in access to services in a community clinic serving a low-income urban neighborhood. Ninety-seven caregivers of children between 12 months and 7 years of age participated in this study. Caregivers completed the risk assessment screening questionnaire using an iPad that was available to them at the clinic. Results showed that while only 11% of caregivers indicated they were initially concerned about their child's overall development, completion of the focused risk assessment resulted in a completely different picture. Fifty percent of caregivers reported that their child had three or more concerns in at least one area of development that would warrant further evaluation. Alerting both families and professionals to these concerns as early as possible may position the family and child to receive the much-needed services that have the potential to mitigate more serious developmental problems. This article discusses the promising role that Telehealth can play in providing screening services for all families, but especially low-income urban households.
Addressing Unmet Needs With Injectable Medications in Type 2 Diabetes Treatment: Basal insulins

In healthy humans, the timing and amount of insulin release are exquisitely tied to the body's metabolic demands. Insulin is released at a relatively constant rate over 24 hours to meet the body's basal metabolic needs. In addition, insulin is released in short bursts in response to nutrient intake, as well as in response to changes in peripheral utilization, sensitivity, and endogenous production.To approximate this physiologic state, 2 general types of insulin formulations have been developed. Basal insulins are intended to address the body's basal metabolic needs over 24 hours, and prandial (or bolus) insulins to address the rapid rise in blood glucose in the postprandial state. The quest for a basal insulin with a constant physiologic effect over 24 hours has been challenging, in part because the subcutaneous route of administration remains the most practical, yet physiologically unnatural route for administering insulin.
Recent trends in the application of widely used natural and synthetic polymer nanocomposites in bone tissue regeneration

The goal of a biomaterial is to support the bone tissue regeneration process at the defect site and eventually degrade in situ and get replaced with the newly generated bone tissue. Nanocomposite biomaterials are a relatively new class of materials that incorporate a biopolymeric and biodegradable matrix structure with bioactive and easily resorbable fillers which are nano-sized. This article is a review of a few polymeric nanocomposite biomaterials which are potential candidates for bone tissue regeneration. These nanocomposites have been broadly classified into two groups viz. natural and synthetic polymer based. Natural polymer-based nanocomposites include materials fabricated through reinforcement of nanoparticles and/or nanofibers in a natural polymer matrix. Several widely used natural biopolymers, such as chitosan (CS), collagen (Col), cellulose, silk fibroin (SF), alginate, and fucoidan, have been reviewed regarding their present investigation on the incorporation of nanomaterial, biocompatibility, and tissue regeneration. Synthetic polymer-based nanocomposites that have been covered in this review include polycaprolactone (PCL), poly (lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA), polyethylene glycol (PEG), poly (lactic acid) (PLA), and polyurethane (PU) based nanocomposites. An array of nanofillers, such as nano hydroxyapatite (nHA), nano zirconia (nZr), nano silica (nSi), silver nano particles (AgNPs), nano titanium dioxide (nTiO2), graphene oxide (GO), that is used widely across the bone tissue regeneration research platform are included in this review with respect to their incorporation into a natural and/or synthetic polymer matrix. The influence of nanofillers on cell viability, both in vitro and in vivo, along with cytocompatibility and new tissue generation has been encompassed in this review. Moreover, nanocomposite material characterization using some commonly used analytical techniques, such as electron microscopy, spectroscopy, diffraction patterns etc., has been highlighted in this review. Biomaterial physical properties, such as pore size, porosity, particle size, and mechanical strength which strongly influences cell attachment, proliferation, and subsequent tissue growth has been covered in this review. This review has been sculptured around a case by case basis of current research that is being undertaken in the field of bone regeneration engineering. The nanofillers induced into the polymeric matrix render important properties, such as large surface area, improved mechanical strength as well as stability, improved cell adhesion, proliferation, and cell differentiation. The selection of nanocomposites is thus crucial in the analysis of viable treatment strategies for bone tissue regeneration for specific bone defects such as craniofacial defects. The effects of growth factor incorporation on the nanocomposite for controlling new bone generation are also important during the biomaterial design phase.
Simulation trust and the internet of things

The urban environment is becoming increasingly more connected and complex. In the coming decades, we will be surrounded by billions of sensors, devices, and machines, the Internet of Things (IoT). As the world becomes more connected, we will become dependent on machines and simulation to make decisions on our behalf. When simulation systems use data from sensors, devices and machines (i.e., things) to make decisions, they need to learn how to trust that data, as well as the things they are interacting with. As embedded simulation becomes more commonplace in IoT and smart city applications, it is essential that decision makers are able to trust the simulation systems making decisions on their behalf. This paper looks at trust from an IoT perspective, describing a set of research projects conducted that span multiple dimensions of trust, and discusses whether these concepts of trust apply to simulation.