cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Low Dispersion Notch Filter for Multi-GHz Frequencies Using Fiber Optics Delays

Although their designs appear simple and straightforward, notch filters for application in stochastic cooling systems are frequently difficult to construct with acceptable characteristics. Problems arise because the components are less than perfect, coaxial cables have loss plus dispersion and other necessary hardware has limitations. Usually it is the delay line, typically a high quality coaxial line, which is the source of most problems. Filter configurations have been produced in many styles. Their purpose is to provide a transmission coefficient with (nearly) zeroes at harmonically related frequencies over a large bandwidth. Specifics of the notch shape (and thus the phase) depend upon the particular filter design. Low dispersion of the notch distribution, that is, the deviation of notch frequencies from ideal, is often difficult to achieve. This is especially true as the operating bandwidths of cooling systems expand. The stochastic cooling systemns used in FNAL's TEV-I operate in the 12 and 2-4 GHz bands, but future systems at CERN'S ACOL or even an upgraded TEV-I will extend to 8 GHz. A filter developed at FNAL1 solves the dispersion problem by using a small superconducting coaxial cable as the long delay element. Laboratory measurements of its characteristics indicate it to have excellent parameters. Nevertheless it requires substantial support in the way of cryogenic and control equipment for its operation. This f ilter is the one chosen for use in the initial operation of the TeV-I pbar accumulation system.
Prostate Cryotherapy Monitoring Using Vibroacoustography: Preliminary Results of an Ex Vivo Study and Technical Feasibility

The objective of this research is to prospectively evaluate the feasibility of vibroacoustography (VA) imaging in monitoring prostate cryotherapy in an ex vivo model. Baseline scanning of an excised human prostate is accomplished by a VA system apparatus in a tank of degassed water. Alcohol and dry ice mixture are used to freeze two prostate tissue samples. The frozen prostates are subsequently placed within the water tank at 27degC and rescanned. VA images were acquired at prescribed time intervals to characterize the acoustic properties of the partially frozen tissue. The frozen prostate tissue appears in the images as hypoemitting signal. Once the tissue thaws, previously frozen regions show coarser texture than prior to freezing. The margin of the frozen tissue is delineated with a well-defined rim. The thawed cryolesions show a different contrast compared with normal unfrozen prostate. In conclusion, this pilot study shows that VA produces clear images of a frozen prostate at different temperature stages. The frozen tissue appears as a uniform region with well-defined borders that are readily identified. These characteristic images should allow safer and more efficient application of prostatic cryosurgery. These results provide substantial motivation to further investigate VA as a potential modality to monitor prostate cryotherapy intraoperatively.
On the Transport of Sediments by Streams

1. The power possessed by water and air in motion of lifting and carrying solids considerably denser than themselves is familiar to all; but it does not seem to have been pointed out that classical hydrodynamics provides a simple explanation. If a solid rests on the bottom of a stream, the points of contact are points of zero velocity; and the velocity just above the solid, by the equation of continuity, must be greater than the general velocity. Hence the velocities produce high pressures under the solid and low ones above it, and the difference tends to lift the solid up. If the resulting thrust exceeds the weight of the solid in the liquid, the solid will be raised, and will be unable to rest in equilibrium on the floor of the stream.
Anterior cruciate ligament injuries in the prepubescent and adolescent athlete: clinical and research considerations.

Exercise across the lifespan is an important maintenance program for good health. Particularly in the American population, exercise is essential to prevent such conditions as obesity, diabetes, and cardiac problems, which often result in premature death. However, those who exercise by participating in sports from a young age can suffer debilitating injuries that may curtail their ability to exercise throughout their lives, thus hampering their efforts to stay healthy and avoid disease. EPIDEMIOLOGY
The excited states of Nb93

Ratios of cross sections for the excitation of second and third, second and fourth, and third and fourth excited levels in niobium-93 are presented for inelastic neutron scattering. Assuming the spin values 7/2, 5/2, and either 9/2 or 11/2 for levels 2, 3, and 4, conclusions concerning the parity of these levels are discussed. (C.E.S.)
An Investigation of Single-Event Transients in C-SiGe HBT on SOI Current Mirror Circuits

The single-event effect sensitivity of three different commonly employed current mirror circuits, as well as an unconventional inverse-mode current mirror, all implemented in C-SiGe (NPN + PNP) HBT on SOI technology are investigated. Comparisons of the measured data of the basic NPN and PNP current mirror circuits show higher single-event radiation tolerance of PNP SiGe HBTs compared with NPN SiGe HBTs. The concept of utilizing inverse-mode SiGe HBTs in current mirror circuits is investigated. Measurement results validate the feasibility of employing inverse-mode PNP SiGe HBTs in current mirrors and show an excellent resilience against ion-strikes. Full 3-D NanoTCAD models of the SiGe HBTs are developed and used in mixed-mode TCAD simulations (within Cadence) to validate the measurement results. Finally, based on the measurement data and analysis of the four current mirrors, some practical suggestions and observations are offered for operation of such circuits in extreme environments.
Controlling Catalytic Properties of Pd Nanoclusters through Their Chemical Environment at the Atomic Level Using Isoreticular Metal-Organic Frameworks

Control of heterogeneous catalytic sites through their surrounding chemical environment at an atomic level is crucial to catalyst design. We synthesize Pd nanoclusters (NCs) in an atomically tunable chemical environment using isoreticular metal–organic framework (MOF) supports (Pd@UiO-66-X, X = H, NH2, OMe). In an aerobic reaction between benzaldehyde and ethylene glycol, these catalysts show product distributions that are completely altered from the acetal to the ester when we change the functional groups on the MOF linkers from −NH2 to −H/–OMe. Diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS) studies, along with density functional theory (DFT) calculations, show that the coordination of the −NH2 groups to the Pd NCs could weaken their oxidation capability to a greater extent in comparison to that of the −OMe group. Moreover, the limited number of −NH2 groups per cavity in the MOF change the electronic properties of the Pd NCs while still leaving open sites for catalysis.
New c − 2 × 8 unit cell for the Ge(111) surface

The smallest unit cell consistent with electron-diffraction patterns of the 8th-order reconstructed Ge(111) surface is shown to be a $c\ensuremath{-}2\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}8$ cell and not the commonly assumed 2 \ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{} 8 cell. A structural model consistent with the observed electron-diffraction data is proposed.
Spontaneous regression of metastatic embryonal testicular carcinoma: 22-year followup.

AbstractWe report a case of untreated metastatic embryonal cell carcinoma with a 22-year followup
The New Right

A survey of the right-extremist scene in Germany since the country’s unification in 1990 would not be complete without examining the intellectual contributions that New Right (Die Neue Rechte) academics, writers, publicists, and journalists have made. They number several hundred individuals, of whom many are organized in small discussion groups and projects. They have positioned themselves as a bridge between right-extremist parties and groups, on one side, and the conservative wing of the mainstream political parties, on the other.1 They have provided some, but still limited, intellectual nourishment to the right-wing extremist cause since the 1960s, but particularly since the early 1980s. They have sought to make the right-wing extremist ideology and politics relevant and influential. They have had little in common with the Old Right generation that had enthusiastically supported Hitler and that after 1949 had received a number of important political posts in the West German establishment. However, the Old Right played no significant role in West German intellectual circles. In this chapter we examine how much influence the New Right adherents have had on both the right-wing extremist and the ultra-conservative groups. Have the New Right ideas and concepts percolated to these two groups? How successful have they been in making an impact on Germany’s domestic and foreign policies?
SOLUTIONS OF PHYSICAL STOCHASTIC PROCESSES VIA MAPPINGS ONTO IDEAL AND DEFECTIVE RANDOM WALK LATTICES

Publisher Summary Internal states may correspond to energy levels, spatial configurations, or transition mechanisms. For a number of varied transport systems, the set of allowable states can be mapped onto lattices possibly with multiple sites (internal states) in each unit cell. The stochastic time development of these systems (which may be semi-Markovian or non-Markovian) can be treated as a continuous-time random walk (CTRW) process on these lattices. The chapter describes the mathematical formalism of CTRW with internal states and presents an expression for the probability propagator (Green's function) from which a number of observable quantities are derived. It discusses diverse transport phenomena, in a unified fashion, using the above formalism. The chapter also discusses the field ion microscope experiments of the observed diffusion of ad-atoms and ad-clusters on surfaces. It discusses how time dependent non-Markovian correlations connecting a finite number of steps can be mapped onto a semi-Markovian random walk lattice with internal states. It presents an example where the internal states of the random walk lattice correspond to the positions of radioactive isotopes in a neural membrane channel and the location of the lattice cell represents how many of the initially injected radioactive isotopes are still within the neural axon. This analysis yields novel expressions for the analysis of one-way tracer influx and efflux during an action potential, while before only the ratio of the two could be analyzed using a detailed balance relationship.
Synthesis of Functionalized Dihydrobenzofurans by Direct Aryl C-O Bond Formation under Mild Conditions.

A method for the synthesis of dihydrobenzofurans by a direct aryl C−O bond formation is described. A mechanistic pathway for the reaction, distinct from previously described similar transformations, allows for mild reaction conditions that are expected to be compatible with functionalized substrates.
AMT with No or Trivial Transactional Preferences: The Regular Tax Rate Schedule as an Implied AMT Preference

The minimum tax (the precursor to the AMT) regime was enacted in 1969 to address a concern that a number of very wealthy individuals were paying far less income tax than Congress considered fair. Often these taxpayers benefited from preferential tax law provisions in favor of the taxpayer. Congress specifically identified for disallowance in the AMT regime certain of these deductions, credits, and income exclusions (explicit preferences). Taxpayers enjoying explicit preferences to a certain extent would not be surprised if they were subjected to AMT. However, because the AMT exemption was not indexed for inflation until recently (and because the AMT exemption became subject to phase-out), many taxpayers began to find themselves subject to AMT even if their explicit preferences were not, relatively, as large as they were decades before.This Article distinguishes explicit preferences from “transactional preferences,” which are all explicit preferences other than the taxpayer’s standard deduction and own personal exemption. This Article demonstrates the surprising result that AMT can apply, albeit in limited circumstances, even if there are no transactional preferences (i.e., no excluded income, no credits or deductions for expenditures, and no dependency or spousal exemptions). In other words, the identified circumstances reveal a taxpayer subject to several thousand dollars of AMT despite having no transactions other than gross income taxed in the same manner in the regular and AMT regimes. This Article then investigates other examples in which the taxpayer has no explicit preferences, where we see that many taxpayers are precipitously close to entering AMT, such that a trivial amount of transactional or other explicit preferences will throw them into AMT.Through extensive textual and mathematical explanation of the causes of these problems, this Article demonstrates that the regular tax rate schedule operates as an implied AMT preference, which clearly was not contemplated by Congress. This Article offers potential solutions to remedy the anomalous (albeit rarely occurring) result of a taxpayer paying AMT with no transactional preferences, as well as the risk of subjecting many other taxpayers to AMT with relatively trivial transactional or other explicit preferences.
Box–Cox Transformation in Big Data

ABSTRACTThe Box–Cox transformation is an important technique in linear regression when assumptions of a regression model are seriously violated. The technique has been widely accepted and extensively applied since it was first proposed. Based on the maximum likelihood approach, previous methods and algorithms for the Box–Cox transformation are mostly developed for small or moderate data. These methods and algorithms cannot be applied to big data because of the memory and storage capacity barriers. To overcome these difficulties, the present article proposes new methods and algorithms, where the basic idea is to construct and compute a set of summary statistics, which is termed as the Box–Cox information array in the article. According to the property of the maximum likelihood approach, the computation of the Box–Cox information array is the only issue to be considered in reading of data. Once the Box–Cox information array is obtained, the optimal power transformation as well as the corresponding estimates...
Processing plastic material

To obtain the best processing melts for any plastics, one starts with the plastic manufacturer’s recommended heat profile and/or one’s own experience. There are different starting points for the various types of plastics. Time and effort on start-up make it possible to achieve maximum efficiency of performance versus cost for the processed plastics. By the application of logic, the information gained can be stored and applied to future set-ups.
Abstract B77: Targeted nano-immune conjugates to melanoma: Preclinical testing of bevacizumab targeted nab-paclitaxel

Background: Phase 3 clinical results demonstrate that nab-paclitaxel (ABX) exhibits single agent activity in patients with metastatic melanoma relative to dacarbazine. Additionally, phase 2 clinical data suggest that ABX combined with bevacizumab (BEV) with/without carboplatin exhibits greater clinical efficacy than ABX alone. We hypothesized that the latter may be due to a pharmacokinetic, non-covalent interaction between bevacizumab (BEV) and nab-paclitaxel (ABX) allowing for greater localization of ABX to sites of VEGF overproduction (metastases). Herein we present pre-clinical data describing the utility of experimentally created ABX/BEV complex nanoparticles used to deliver ABX to VEGF producing cancer targets. Methods and Results: To test whether BEV binds to ABX we employed flow cytometry and discovered that the BEV does bind to ABX while preserving the ability of BEV to bind its ligand, VEGF. To measure binding affinity we used Biolayer Interferometry (BLItz) to measure association and dissociation constants. Results of BLItz experiments demonstrate that the binding affinity of BEV to ABX is pH and temperature dependent. The size and stability of the nanoparticle formed by binding BEV and ABX was determined using light refraction (Mastersizer) and Brownian motion (Nanosight). Results of these experiments suggest that a range of nanoparticles can be produced and stability of the BEV particle is increased relative to ABX particles alone. Finally the tumor efficacy of the BEV/ABX complex relative to ABX and BEV as well as sequential administration of the two drugs was tested in a xenograft model of A375 human melanoma cell line. Pharmacokinetic studies in these mice suggest that more ABX is deposited in the tumor site when treated with the complexes relative to ABX alone. Conclusions: The therapeutic antibody BEV has the capability to bind to the chemotherapy drug ABX while still binding its ligand, VEGF. The resulting nanoparticle is more stable than the original ABX particle. In a preclinical model of human A375 xenografts in nude mice, AB160 treatment offers significantly improved antitumor activity beyond that of ABX, BEV or ABX+BEV with no additional toxicity. Initial results indicate that the improved efficacy of the ABX/BEV nanoparticle relative to ABX alone is primarily due to the ability of the anti-VEGF antibody (BEV) to target the chemotherapy agent to the tumor where local VEGF concentration is very high. Clinical translation of the safety of a 160nm AB particle (AB160) in patients with metastatic melanoma is in progress. Citation Format: Wendy K. Nevala, Svetomir N. Markovic. Targeted nano-immune conjugates to melanoma: Preclinical testing of bevacizumab targeted nab-paclitaxel. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference: Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy: A New Chapter; December 1-4, 2014; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Immunol Res 2015;3(10 Suppl):Abstract nr B77.
Space Flight Task Contexts for Long Distance and Duration Exploration Missions: Application to Measurement of Human Automation Interaction

An effort is currently underway to determine methods for measuring safety and performance of human- automation systems to improve their functioning for future long duration space flights. However, an important step in system evaluation is understanding the contexts in which they operate. The identification of contexts will help in targeting what variables may be related to the overall system’s effectiveness. A review of NASA documents and literature has resulted in the identification of four categories of task contexts that are believed to be important for future Long Distance and Duration Exploration Missions (LDDEM) to Mars and beyond. These four categories include (1) spacecraft navigation, (2) robotic/habitat operations, (3) systems monitoring, and (4) mission planning and scheduling. Within each of these four task categories there exist varying task demands and environmental conditions that impact the user’s interaction with the automation and, subsequently, the types of measurement that are appropri...
Remote Sensing between Liver and Intestine: Importance of Microbial Metabolites.

Recent technological advancements including metagenomics sequencing and metabolomics have allowed the discovery of critical functions of gut microbiota in obesity, malnutrition, neurological disorders, asthma, and xenobiotic metabolism. Classification of the human gut microbiome into distinct “enterotypes” has been proposed to serve as a new paradigm for understanding the interplay between microbial variation and human disease phenotypes, as many organs are affected by gut microbiota modifications during the pathogenesis of diseases. Gut microbiota remotely interacts with liver and other metabolic organs of the host through various microbial metabolites that are absorbed into the systemic circulation. The present review summarizes recent literature regarding the importance of gut microbiota in modulating the physiological and pathological responses of various host organs and describes the functions of the known microbial metabolites that are involved in this remote sensing process, with a primary focus on the gut microbiota-liver axis. Under physiological conditions, gut microbiota modulates the hepatic transcriptome, proteome, and metabolome, most notably downregulating cytochrome P450 3a-mediated xenobiotic metabolism. Gut microbiome also modulates the rhythmicity in liver gene expression, likely through microbial metabolites, such as butyrate and propionate that serve as epigenetic modifiers. Additionally, the production of host hormones such as primary bile acids and glucagon-like peptide 1 is altered by gut microbiota to modify intermediary metabolism of the host. Dysregulation of gut microbiota is implicated in various liver diseases such as alcoholic liver disease, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, liver cirrhosis, cholangitis, and liver cancer. Gut microbiota modifiers such as probiotics and prebiotics are increasingly recognized as novel therapeutic modalities for liver and other types of human diseases.
Community Needs Assessment: Bringing Real Voices to the Health Care System

Community needs assessment is grounded in the belief that people are often the best judges of things that matter most to them, that no one can walk in someone else’s shoes and that for health care interventions to make an impact, they need to include the perspectives of the consumers [1]. Community needs assessments go beyond focusing on identifying the needs and problems of communities to identifying their assets, strengths, and capacities.
Offshore pipeline construction cost in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico

Abstract The oil and gas pipeline network in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico is the largest offshore pipeline network in the world, but construction cost statistics are not a frequent topic of investigation. Using data sources from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, industry publications and press releases, pipeline construction cost in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico from 1980 to 2014 are examined. The average inflation-adjusted cost to install FERC pipelines from 1995 to 2014 was $3.3 million/mi ($2.1 million/km), and industry publication pipeline cost average $3.1 million/mi ($1.9 million/km). Data sources vary in their scope and quality and need to be interpreted with an understanding of their limitations. A description of each data source and its limitations are provided.
Blood total mercury and methylmercury among pregnant mothers in Charleston, South Carolina, USA.

Maternal blood total mercury (THg) is a biomarker for prenatal methylmercury (MeHg) exposure. Few studies have quantified both blood THg and MeHg during pregnancy, and few studies have reported longitudinal trends. We analyzed blood THg and MeHg in a cohort of pregnant mothers in Charleston, South Carolina (n = 83), and investigated whether blood THg or MeHg changed between early and late gestation. THg and MeHg were analyzed in blood samples from early (12 ± 1.7 weeks) and late (35 ± 2.2 weeks) gestation. Blood %MeHg (of THg) averaged 63% (range: 10–114%) and 61% (range: 12–117%) during early and late gestation, respectively. In unadjusted analyses, blood MeHg decreased from early to late pregnancy (paired t-test, p = 0.04), while THg did not change (paired t-test, p = 0.34). When blood MeHg was normalized by the hematocrit, this decrease was no longer statistically significant (paired t-test, p = 0.09). In unadjusted analyses, blood MeHg, but not THg, decreased significantly between early and late gestation; this decrease was due in part to hemodilution. Percent MeHg (of THg) varied by up to one order of magnitude. Results highlight the importance of Hg speciation in maternal blood samples to assess prenatal MeHg exposure.
Comparison of Metal Foil and Ceramic Monolith Automotive Catalytic Converters

Abstract Metal foil substrates are being promoted as the substrates of choice for automotive catalytic converters in the European market. Thinner walls are seen to offer both lower flow restrictions and improved catalytic performance, while metal's thermal characteristics are seen to benefit both performance and durability. AC Rochester has been investigating the advantages and disadvantages of metal foil monoliths for some time and recently developed a unique low cost design that is now in low volume production for Opel. An extensive test was recently conducted to compare the aged performance of various metal foil and ceramic monolith converter designs. The herringbone-corrugated ACR metal units outperformed equivalent plate-fin metal and conventional ceramic units and approached the performance of 25% larger ceramic converters. However, metal's thermal characteristics may require the addition of insulation to compensate for rapid cooling during the ten minute shut-down and hot restart portion of the 23 cycle US FTP test. It was also found that tailpipe emission numbers and converter efficiencies may not accurately judge converter performance when the pollutant levels from the test engine are not constant, but vary with converter type.
Family Context in Developmental Psychopathology

Few would disagree that families affect children’s development. The theoretical basis for this assumption, however, has evolved over time, with increasing recognition that children live in complex and multidetermined environments (Bronfenbrenner, 1977; Sameroff, 1997). Despite these concerns, historical factors, theoretical limitations, and restricted diagnostic systems have limited the understanding of family-context effects in developmental psychopathology. To address these limitations, we have organized the chapter to examine the historical, theoretical, and diagnostic challenges encountered in studying families and their effects on children’s adaptation and maladaptation. Our overview is necessarily brief and the interested reader is directed to more extensive discussions found in other sources (e.g., Cowan, 1991; Crockenberg, Lyons-Ruth, & Dickstein, 1993;Lewis, 1987; Lewis & Feiring, 1992; Wagner & Reiss, 1995).
Ventricular Fibrillation Waveform Analysis During Chest Compressions to Predict Survival From Cardiac Arrest

Background: Quantitative measures of the ventricular fibrillation (VF) ECG waveform can assess myocardial physiology and predict cardiac arrest outcomes, making these measures a candidate to help guide resuscitation. Chest compressions are typically paused for waveform measure calculation because compressions cause ECG artifact. However, such pauses contradict resuscitation guideline recommendations to minimize cardiopulmonary resuscitation interruptions. We evaluated a comprehensive group of VF measures with and without ongoing compressions to determine their performance under both conditions for predicting functionally-intact survival, the study’s primary outcome. Methods: Five-second VF ECG segments were collected with and without chest compressions before 2755 defibrillation shocks from 1151 out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients. Twenty-four individual measures and 3 combination measures were implemented. Measures were optimized to predict functionally-intact survival (Cerebral Performance Category ...
D-pentose metabolism by Bacteroides vulgatus strain 8482

Bacteroides vulgatus strain 8482 metabolizedd-arabinose by a mechanism involving a 3∶2 (top to bottom) cleavage of the arabinose carbon skeleton. During growth in the presence of 1-14C-d-arabinose, acetate, propionate, and succinate were labeled, but during growth in the presence of 5-labeledd-arabinose, only labeled acetate and succinate were formed. The metabolism ofd-ribose by strain 8482 differed from that ford-arabinose. Strain 8482 converted glycolic acid and glycine to acetate and succinate, but not propionate, by a mechanism involving cleavage of the glycine and glycolic acid carbon skeletons and equilibration of carbons 1 and 2 of glycolic acid and glycine with nonequivalent metabolic pools. The metabolism ofd-arabinose,d-ribose,d-glycine, andd-glycolic acid by strain 8482 was similar, in some respects, to that ofBacteroides fragilis strain 2044, but differed substantially from the metabolism of the same substances byBacteroides ruminicola strain B14.
Will Tonic Water Stop My Eyelid Twitching

Eyelid myokymia, commonly referred to as "eyelid twitching", is a common, benign condition that resolves in most individuals within hours to days; however, chronic cases can persist for several weeks to months, prompting the search for home remedies that may reduce the frequency or duration of symptoms. In this article, we discuss the proposed pathophysiologic mechanism and safety concerns surrounding tonic water as a treatment for eyelid myokymia.
Dexmedetomidine as an adjunct for caudal anesthesia and analgesia in children.

Introduction The aim of this review was to evaluate the current evidence regarding the use of dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant to local anesthetic agents (LAA) for caudal blockade anesthesia and analgesia in children. Evidence acquisition A literature search was performed of the Medline, Embase, and CINAHL databases using the keywords "dexmedetomidine" and "caudal". We included all studies that used caudal dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant to a LAA in children, excluding case reports, reviews, expert opinions, and animal studies. Evidence synthesis Twenty-one publications met the inclusion criteria and included 1590 children. Fourteen compared the efficacy of adding dexmedetomidine to a LAA alone and seven compared dexmedetomidine to other adjuvants in combination with a LAA. The duration of postoperative analgesia was significantly longer in patients receiving a caudal epidural block with a LAA plus dexmedetomidine when compared to a LAA alone. Only one study demonstrated improved analgesia with a dose of dexmedetomidine ≥1 µg/kg. Dexmedetomidine provided longer postoperative analgesia than fentanyl and morphine, while the quality of postoperative analgesia was similar to dexamethasone or clonidine. Although higher sedation scores were associated with caudal dexmedetomidine in the majority of the trials, postoperative behavior scores were improved in these children. There were no reports of respiratory depression. Significant hemodynamic effects were uncommon, and occurred most commonly in patients receiving a higher dose of caudal dexmedetomidine (2 µg.kg-1). Conclusions There is sufficient evidence to recommend the addition of caudal dexmedetomidine to the LAA in patients undergoing lower extremity and infra-umbilical surgical procedures.
A passive, biocompatible microfluidic flow sensor to assess flows in a cerebral spinal fluid shunt

Abstracts Hydrocephalus is a disease in which a buildup of cerebral spinal fluid in the ventricles of the brain can cause brain trauma and death if untreated. The current standard of treatment is to insert a shunt to drain the fluid from the ventricles in the brain to the abdomen. A shortcoming of this approach is that the shunt may get clogged, and this failure is not easily detected. We have developed a novel microfluidic sensor for application in a cerebrospinal fluid shunt. The sensor system is totally passive and no implanted electronics are required. The sensor itself is a bending based cantilever made from biocompatible polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and is capable of measuring flow rates from 20 ml/hr to 120 ml/hr, which is the indicated range for the flow rate of cerebral spinal fluid. The sensor is paired with an optical detection system that uses a small light spot to read the changes in sensor position due to flow. The light is input from outside the brain into the implanted optical system and the output light is measured by a camera external to the body. The sensor stability was verified by running cerebral spinal fluid over the cantilever continuously for two weeks. The ability of the sensor to measure pulsed flow and linearly increasing flow rates was also verified. All of the materials used for the device are biocompatible materials and are amenable for manufacturing and animal tests and clinical studies.
Reconceptualizing and Operationalizing Seefeldt's Proficiency Barrier: Applications and Future Directions.

In 1980, Seefeldt introduced the concept of a motor skill “proficiency barrier” that provides a conceptual basis for understanding the importance of a motor skill barrier as it relates to critical public health initiatives. While the intent of Seefeldt’s proficiency barrier hypothesis had great potential to advance the field of motor development, the notion of a proficiency barrier was not empirically tested. Instead, this concept lay dormant for several decades. The purpose of this paper was to expand upon Seefeldt’s proficiency barrier concept in greater detail by addressing the following questions: (1) what constitutes a motor proficiency barrier? (2) how do we assess/measure the existence of a proficiency barrier? and (3) how do we break through the proficiency barrier in order to maximize the likelihood of participation in health-enhancing levels of physical activity later on in life? We conclude with a future research suggestion to explore the existence of the proficiency barrier.
Access to Care Matters: Remote Health Care Needs During COVID-19

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is straining health care worldwide with >31 million confirmed cases. Currently, 1 in every 100 U.S. residents and 245,000 in New York City are confirmed positive. The Bronx, with high-risk comorbidities, due in part to socioeconomic factors, has seen disproportionately higher rates of COVID-19-related complications. Poor health care access is exacerbated as in-person visits now pose viral transmission risk. There has been limited discourse regarding widespread disparities underlying transitions to telemedicine. Methods: We review perspectives in recent literature on telemedicine and its potential within neurology. Results: While telemedicine has reduced strain on in-person visits, preliminary reflections highlight implementation successes and challenges. Conclusions: To provide effective care beyond this crisis, fundamental changes in training, technological accessibility, and health care policy are needed. We propose open access to telehealth training, screening of patient's potential technological inequities and socioeconomic insecurities, and advocacy to secure broad long-term access to telehealth care.
The association between carbon dioxide, cerebral blood flow, and autoregulation in the premature infant.

OBJECTIVE Evaluate the association between carbon dioxide (pCO2), cerebral blood flow (CBF), and cerebral autoregulation (CA) in preterm infants. STUDY DESIGN Cerebral saturations (rScO2, surrogate for CBF using NIRS) and mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) monitored for 96 h in infants 55 mmHg on each postnatal day (p < 0.001). No association observed between the overall rScO2-MAP correlation and pCO2. On day 1 only, the correlation coefficient decreased from 0.26 to -0.09 as pCO2 category increased (p = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS CBF increased above a pCO2 threshold of 55 mmHg, but overall, no association between pCO2 and CA was noted.
Printed Circuit Board (PCB) Technology for Electrochemical Sensors and Sensing Platforms

The development of various biosensors has revolutionized the healthcare industry by providing rapid and reliable detection capability. Printed circuit board (PCB) technology has a well-established industry widely available around the world. In addition to electronics, this technology has been utilized to fabricate electrical parts, including electrodes for different biological and chemical sensors. High reproducibility achieved through long-lasting standard processes and low-cost resulting from an abundance of competitive manufacturing services makes this fabrication method a prime candidate for patterning electrodes and electrical parts of biosensors. The adoption of this approach in the fabrication of sensing platforms facilitates the integration of electronics and microfluidics with biosensors. In this review paper, the underlying principles and advances of printed board circuit technology are discussed. In addition, an overview of recent advancements in the development of PCB-based biosensors is provided. Finally, the challenges and outlook of PCB-based sensors are elaborated.
DHA 12-LOX-derived oxylipins regulate platelet activation and thrombus formation through a PKA-dependent signaling pathway.

Background The effects of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) on cardiovascular disease are controversial and a mechanistic understanding of how this omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (ω-3 PUFA) regulates platelet reactivity and the subsequent risk of a thrombotic event is warranted. In platelets, DHA is oxidized by 12-lipoxygenase (12-LOX) producing the oxidized lipids (oxylipins) 11-HDHA and 14-HDHA. We hypothesized that 12-LOX DHA-oxylipins may be involved in the beneficial effects observed in dietary supplemental treatment with ω-3 PUFAs or DHA itself. Objectives To determine the effects of DHA, 11-HDHA, and 14-HDHA on platelet function and thrombus formation, and to elucidate the mechanism by which these ω-3 PUFAs regulate platelet activation. Methods and results DHA, 11-HDHA, and 14-HDHA attenuated collagen-induced human platelet aggregation, but only the oxylipins inhibited ⍺IIbβ3 activation and decreased ⍺-granule secretion. Furthermore, treatment of whole blood with DHA and its oxylipins impaired platelet adhesion and accumulation to a collagen-coated surface. Interestingly, thrombus formation was only diminished in mice treated with 11-HDHA or 14-HDHA, and mouse platelet activation was inhibited following acute treatment with these oxylipins or chronic treatment with DHA, suggesting that under physiologic conditions, the effects of DHA are mediated through its oxylipins. Finally, the protective mechanism of DHA oxylipins was shown to be mediated via activation of protein kinase A. Conclusions This study provides the first mechanistic evidence of how DHA and its 12-LOX oxylipins inhibit platelet activity and thrombus formation. These findings support the beneficial effects of DHA as therapeutic intervention in atherothrombotic diseases.
Electrophotocatalytic diamination of vicinal C–H bonds

The conversion of unactivated carbon-hydrogen (C-H) bonds to carbon-nitrogen (C-N) bonds is a highly valued transformation. Existing strategies typically accomplish such reactions at only a single C-H site because the first derivatization diminishes the reactivity of surrounding C-H bonds. Here, we show that alkylated arenes can undergo vicinal C-H diamination reactions to form 1,2-diamine derivatives through an electrophotocatalytic strategy, using acetonitrile as both solvent and nitrogen source. The reaction is catalyzed by a trisaminocyclopropenium (TAC) ion, which undergoes anodic oxidation to furnish a stable radical dication while the cathodic reaction reduces protons to molecular hydrogen. Irradiation of the TAC radical dication (wavelength of maximum absorption of 450 to 550 nanometers) with a white-light compact fluorescent light generates a strongly oxidizing photoexcited intermediate. Depending on the electrolyte used, either 3,4-dihydroimidazole or aziridine products are obtained.
Corporate Venture Capital

Entrepreneurship fuels our innovation economy. Venture capitalists concentrated in Silicon Valley fund our most promising startups that become household names. As this Article explores, however, large corporations have entered the startup funding space, with significant consequences. This Article examines the large corporation as venture capitalist, why it can challenge traditional venture capitalists for dominance in innovation funding, and legal considerations unique to corporate venture capitalists.
Performance simulation of HFC-161 as an alternative refrigerant to HCFC-22 for room air conditioner

Abstract According to recent Kigali amendment in 2016, ODS (ozone depleting substances) and high GWP (global warming potential) refrigerants must be phased out. There is need to find an alternative refrigerant for air conditioning applications. This article presents the performance comparison for selected low GWP refrigerants commonly used by different air conditioner manufacturers. A baseline test was conducted on a 5.2 kW air conditioner originally designed for HCFC-22 in psychrometric lab as per Indian standard IS 1391 part 1. Simulation tool was tuned and validated against the experimental results within ± 5% accuracy. Parametric analysis was done using IMST-ART tool for the best suitable configuration of compressor capacity, capillary tube, heat exchangers etc. for maximum energy efficiency. Simulation study concluded that the HFC-161 is an energy efficient and climate friendly alternative since it has zero ODP (ozone depletion potential) and ultra-low GWP of 12 except its flammability issue. European standard EN 378, specifies the limit of about 15 g/m3 for charging HFC-161 in the AC system. For HFC-161, the highest cooling capacity of 5.3 kW is achieved in case 4. The HFC-161 gave 27.2% higher EER compared to HCFC-22 system due to 26.47% lowered power consumption. Discharge temperature of HFC-161 is also lowered in the range of 70 °C to 82 °C compared to selected refrigerants. The required charge for HFC-161 was only 55% of HCFC-22.
Exploring Patients' Needs & Desires for Quality Prenatal Care in Florida

IntroductionEarly and adequate prenatal care is important for patients to obtain health education, risk reduction, psychosocial support, and necessary medical interventions during the prenatal period. High-quality prenatal care encourages adequate care throughout pregnancy by increasing patients desires to return for subsequent visits. This study aims to investigate the prenatal care experiences, desires, and needs of women in Florida. MethodsA mixed-methods study was conducted from April to December 2019 with postpartum women (n=55) who received no or late prenatal care and delivered in [City], Florida. Eligible women completed a survey and a semi-structured interview. The interview contextualized conditions shaping perceptions of the quality of prenatal care. Univariate analysis was conducted on the demographic characteristics and prenatal care locations. Qualitative analysis was performed using MAXQDA software and modified grounded theory. The analysis was based on Donabedians quality of care model. ResultsThe participants self-identified as Hispanic (52%), White (48%), and Black (21%). Sixty-nine percent had Medicaid while 22% were self-pay. In the qualitative analysis, three core themes emerged. Clinical care processes included provision of health education and medical assessments. Structural conditions included language barriers, clinic availability, and ancillary staff presence. Lastly, interpersonal communication included impersonal care and multiple providers. The overarching conclusion from this analysis was the desire for patient-centered care. Participants wanted the care they received to be informative, tailored to their needs, and to work within the realities of their everyday lives. DiscussionInvestigating womens experiences with seeking and receiving prenatal care are necessary to inform future interventions. Fostering a positive and patient-centered healthcare environment is necessary to improve the quality of care. Quick pointsO_ST_ABSWhat is already known on this subject?C_ST_ABSO_LIRacial and ethnic disparities exist in prenatal care access, utilization and both maternal and infant mortality and morbidity. C_LIO_LITimely and adequate prenatal care is an important determinant for maternal and infant birth outcomes. C_LI What this study addsO_LIThis study identified process, structure, and interpersonal factors associated with prenatal care access and utilization from the perspectives of a diverse group of postpartum women. C_LIO_LISpecific recommendations for patient-centered prenatal care for diverse women in the context of patient expectations and perceptions of quality are provided. C_LI
Machine Learning Enabled Traffic Prediction for Speed Optimization of Connected and Autonomous Electric Vehicles

Connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs) can bring in energy, mobility, and safety benefits to transportation. The optimal control strategies of CAVs are usually determined for a look-ahead horizon using previewed traffic information. This requires the development of an effective future traffic prediction algorithm and its integration to the CAV control framework. However, it is challenging for short-term traffic prediction using information from connectivity, especially for mixed traffic scenarios. In this work, a novel machine learning enabled traffic prediction method is developed and integrated with a speed optimization algorithm for connected and autonomous electric vehicles. The traffic prediction is based on a hybrid macroscopic traffic flow model, in which the most challenging nonlinear terms are modeled with neural networks (NNs). The traffic prediction method can be readily applied to various mixed traffic scenarios. Information from connected vehicles is used as partial measurement of the traffic states and the rest unknown traffic states are estimated using a state observer. Then, the preceding vehicle's future trajectory is obtained to formulate the car-following distance constraint of the energy optimization problem. In a simulated scenario of 70% penetration rate of connectivity, the NN-based traffic prediction algorithm can reduce the root-mean-square errors of the prediction of preceding vehicle speed by near 50%, compared to the conventional traffic flow model. The energy benefit is 12.5%, which is satisfactory compared to 16.5% of the scenario with perfect prediction.
Comparing echocardiographic characteristics in genotype positive-phenotype positive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and hypertensive left ventricular hypertrophy.

AIMS There is little information about hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) with pathologic genetic mutations and concurrent hypertension (HTN). Hypertensive left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) does not exclude an underlying genetic aetiology. METHODS AND RESULTS This was a single-centre case-control study of 39 adults with pathologic HCM mutations, confirmed by genetic testing, compared to 39 age- and gender-matched patients with hypertensive LVH. The gene-positive HCM cohort was further stratified by the coexisting presence or absence of HTN. Clinical and echocardiographic characteristics were compared. Of 39 gene-positive HCM, 43.6% (17/39) had concurrent HTN. The gene-positive HCM cohort had larger left atrial (LA) area (22.1 cm2 vs. 18.9 cm2, P = 0.002), more diastolic predominant pulmonary vein flow (38.5% vs. 7.7%, P = 0.001), and more moderate diastolic dysfunction (33.3% vs. 12.8%, P = 0.032) when compared with the hypertensive LVH cohort. Greater left ventricular (LV) mass (277.7 g vs. 207.7 g, P = 0.025), increased frequency of severe LVH (58.8% vs. 27.3%, P = 0.047), and more abnormal global longitudinal strain (GLS) (-14.1% vs. -16.9%, P = 0.049) was observed in the gene-positive HCM cohort with concurrent HTN. CONCLUSION Gene-positive HCM, compared to hypertensive LVH, is characterized by more advanced diastolic dysfunction and larger LA size. Gene-positive HCM patients with concomitant HTN had greater LV mass, more severe LVH, and more abnormal GLS, suggesting HTN may negatively affect the progression of myocardial dysfunction in genetic HCM. LVH out-of-proportion to pressure burden in HTN patients should raise suspicion of underlying genetic HCM.