cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Semiclassical theory of the Ehrenfest time dependence of quantum transport in ballistic quantum dots

We present a trajectory-based semiclassical calculation of the Ehrenfest-time dependence of the weak localization correction and the universal conductance fluctuations of a ballistic quantum dot with ideal point contacts. While the weak localization correction is proportional to $\mathrm{exp}(\ensuremath{-}{\ensuremath{\tau}}_{\mathrm{E}}∕{\ensuremath{\tau}}_{\mathrm{D}})$, where ${\ensuremath{\tau}}_{\mathrm{E}}$ and ${\ensuremath{\tau}}_{\mathrm{D}}$ are the dot's Ehrenfest time and dwell time, respectively, the variance of the conductance is found to be independent of ${\ensuremath{\tau}}_{\mathrm{E}}$. The latter is in agreement with numerical simulations of the quantum kicked rotator [J. Tworzydlo et al., Phys. Rev. B 69, 165318 (2004) and P. Jacquod and E. V. Sukhorukov, Phys. Rev. Lett. 92, 116801 (2004)].
Correction of eddy-covariance measurements incorporating both advective effects and density fluxes.

Equations are presented to correct eddy-covariance measurements for both fluctuations in density and non-zero mean advection, induced by convergence or divergence of flow, and spatial source/sink inhomogeneity, under steady-state and transient conditions. This correction collapses to the Webb-Pearman-Leuning expression if the mean vertical velocity is zero, and formally adds the Webb-Pearman-Leuning expression to the corrections suggested by Lee for conditions of non-zero vertical velocity and source/sink and mean scalar horizontal homogeneity. The equation requires measurement of the mean vertical gradients of the scalar concentration of interest (air temperature, humidity, CO2) as well as an accurate estimation of the mean vertical velocity, in addition to the vertical eddy covariance of the scalar. Simple methods for the approximation of sensor tilt and complex terrain flow angle are presented, to allow estimation of non-zero mean vertical velocities. The equations are applied to data from a maize crop and a forest to give examples of when the correction is significant. In addition, a term for the thermodynamic expansion energy associated with water vapour flux is derived, which implies that the sonic temperature derived sensible heat flux will accurately include this contribution.
DNA content, ribosomal gene multiplicity, and cell size in fish.

The diploid nuclear DNA contents in eight species of fish have been found to differ over a 178-fold range. Among these, lungfish have the highest values, and teleosts have the lowest. Shark and coelacanth have intermediate values, which are close to the highest teleost values. Such great variation in DNA contents among vertebrates indicates that fundamental differences in chromosome structure and DNA function have arisen during evolution. In order to gain insight into the organization of genes in organisms with different DNA contents, the relative proportion of the genome coding for ribosomal RNA was determined for five species, winter flounder, goldfish, rainbow trout, dogfish shark, and Australian lungfish. The proportion of ribosomal DNA (r-DNA) was found to vary over a six-fold range from flounder to lungfish. In general, species with higher DNA contents have lower proportions of r-DNA. The r-DNA proportion of trout is consistent with the view that salmonids are recent tetraploids. If the goldfish is also considered a tetraploid, then its r-DNA proportion indicates a loss of ribosomal genes subsequent to polyploidization. Measurement of the ribosomal genes in fish DNA's was based on hybridization with yeast ribosomal RNA, which was assumed to be equally homologous with the r-DNA of all species studied. The activity of multiple copies of genes was studied by measuring the volumes of blood cells in five species. It was found that erythrocyte volume correlated both with ribosomal gene multiplicity and with total DNA content. The size of goldfish and trout erythrocytes suggests that cell volume in these tetraploids has declined to the ancestral diploid level. It is concluded that the multiplicity of specific repetitive genes varies out of proportion with the DNA content, contrary to expectation based on simple polyteny. This variation in the proportions of specific genes and the large variations in total DNA content among fish are thought to be due to a combination of tetraploidy and extensive linear replication of specific chromosomal regions during evolution.
The surface chemistry of thin film atomic layer deposition (ALD) processes for electronic device manufacturing

Atomic layer deposition (ALD) is poised to become one of the dominant technologies for the growth of nanometer-thick conformal films in microelectronics processing. ALD is particularly suited for the deposition of isotropic films on complex topographies under mild conditions and with monolayer control. However, many questions concerning the underlying surface chemistry need to be answered before this film deposition methodology can find widespread use. Here we highlight some recent examples of surface-science studies of ALD processes aimed to provide a basic understanding of that chemistry.
Ultrasonic micrometer position indicator with temperature compensation

This paper discusses a novel ultrasonic system for high precision relative position monitoring. An innovative combination of existing signal processing techniques was implemented to facilitate an accurate, efficient, and automated digital algorithm. A method was derived for physical compensation of temperature dependant water velocity through the design and use of a two-tiered target. A leave-in-place, couplant free transducer was designed and fabricated for use at elevated temperatures, the details of which are discussed in presentation form. A prototype was developed according to wave propagation principles in order to produce multiple roundtrip reflections from a water immersed target. The digital automated processing included gate tracking algorithms, reference correlations, and Hilbert transformed envelopes which helped facilitate a phase stability of 1-3ns. This allowed for a precision of /spl lambda//150 (1 /spl mu/m at 10 MHz) in relative target positioning. Analysis was conducted at 23/spl deg/C and 77/spl deg/C with velocity measurements taken over this range in order to qualify the system's capability of position indication at elevated temperatures. Repeated target movements on the order of 100 /spl mu/m were measured with approximately 0.1% mean square deviation from average over a displacement range of 1mm at both temperatures.
Large-Amplitude Periodic Oscillations in Simple and Complex Mechanical Systems: Outgrowths from Nonlinear Analysis

In this paper, we survey developments in nonlinear partial differential equations and applications since the original paper of Ambrosetti and Prodi on nonlinearities that cross eigenvalues. We show how this work has important developments in nonlinear analysis, and survey the implications for periodically forced mechanical systems, from simple one-particle vibrating systems to suspension bridges and ships.
Pulsar wind nebulae: theoretical aspects and observational constraints

Abstract Of the known pulsar wind nebulae, 8 are good candidates for being in the early stage of evolution where the wind nebula is interacting with the freely expanding supernova ejecta. Several of these have been identified with historical supernovae. Although the identification of SN 1181 with 3C 58 has been thought to be relatively secure, the large size of the nebula, the amount of swept up mass, and the internal energy indicate a larger age. For G11.2-0.3, the nebular size and internal energy are consistent with the identification with the possible supernova of 386. Although the Crab Nebula appears to have approximate energy equipartition between particles and the magnetic field, the nebulae 3C 58 and MSH 15-52 appear to be particle dominated. The low magnetic field is consistent with models in which the nebulae are created by a shocked pulsar wind.
Coarsening in Sintering: Grain Shape Distribution, Grain Size Distribution, and Grain Growth Kinetics in Solid-Pore Systems

Sintering occurs when packed particles are heated to a temperature where there is sufficient atomic motion to grow bonds between the particles. The conditions that induce sintering depend on the material, its melting temperature, particle size, and a host of processing variables. It is common for sintering to produce a dimensional change, typically shrinkage, where the powder compact densifies, leading to significant strengthening. Microstructure coarsening is inherent to sintering, most evident as grain growth, but it is common for pore growth to occur as density increases. During coarsening, the grain structure converges to a self-similar character seen in both the grain shape distribution and grain size distribution. Coarsening behavior during sintering conforms to classic grain growth kinetics, modified to reflect the evolving microstructure. These modifications involve the grain boundary coverage due to pores, liquid films, or second phases and the altered grain boundary mobility due to these phases....
A 2-Year Outcome Study of the Check, Connect, and Expect Intervention for Students At Risk for Severe Behavior Problems

Two hundred seven students in Grades 1 through 5 who were at risk for severe behavior problems participated in a 2-year study of the effects of the Check, Connect, and Expect (CCE) program. The CCE program combined the essential intervention procedures of the Check & Connect Program and the Behavior Education Program . A stratified random sample of students based on school assignment was used to compare the outcomes of 121 CCE program students with 86 comparison students. Sixty percent of the CCE students (n = 73) graduated from the program and 40% (n = 48) did not. Linear growth analyses of eight different outcome measures found that three standardized problem behavior measures significantly decreased to normative levels for CCE graduates. Social skills and academic measures did not significantly change over time. The discussion focuses on the comparative efficacy of CCE as a targeted intervention for students at risk for severe behavior problems.
Differences in the outcome of surgically placed long-term central venous catheters in neonates: neck vs groin placement.

Abstract Background/Purpose Long-term tunneled central venous catheters (CVC) are frequently used in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) babies. They are placed either in the neck or groin based primarily upon the surgeon's preference. There is meager published information available about the relative risks of these lines. Methods This is a retrospective analysis of all the tunneled central venous catheters placed in NICU babies at a children's hospital over a nearly 5-year period. Single lumen Broviac catheters were used in all cases. Results A total of 137 catheters were placed in 126 patients. There were 88 neck lines and 49 groin lines. Age, gestational maturity, and body weight were significantly lower for babies who underwent groin line placement. There was no significant difference in the number of days the catheters were live between the 2 groups. Total complication rates and catheter infection rates were significantly higher with neck lines. The accidental removal rate was higher with neck lines but did not reach statistical significance. Conclusions Broviac catheters placed in the groin of NICU babies are associated with significantly fewer complications compared with those placed in the neck.
Developing a robust geologic conceptual model using pseudo 3-D P-wave seismic reflection data

As part of a multiscale hydrogeophysical and modeling study, a pseudo three-dimensional (3-D) seismic survey was conducted over a contaminant plume at P area, Savannah River site (South Carolina), to enhance the existing geologic model by resolving uncertainties in the lithostratigraphic sequence. The geometry of the dissolved phase trichloroethylene plume, based on initial site characterization, appears to be confined to a narrow corridor within the Eocene sand overlying a clay unit approximately 25 m (82 ft) below land surface. Processing the seismic data as a 3-D data volume instead of a series of closely spaced two-dimensional lines allowed for better interpretation of the target horizons, the lower clay, and the sand above the clay. Calibrating the seismic data with existing borehole geophysical logs, core data as well as vertical seismic profiling (VSP) data allowed the seismic data to be inverted from two-way traveltime to depth, thereby facilitating full integration of the seismic data into a solid earth model that is the basic part of a site conceptual model. The outcome was the production of realistic horizon surface maps that show that two channel complexes are located on the section, which are not present in the conceptual model, and that the upper and middle clays are not laterally continuous as previously thought. The geometry of the primary channel has been transposed over the map view of the plume to investigate potential relationships between the shape of the plume and the presence of the channel.
Reg1 Protein Regulates Phosphorylation of All Three Snf1 Isoforms but Preferentially Associates with the Gal83 Isoform

The phosphorylation status of the Snf1 activation loop threonine is determined by changes in the rate of its dephosphorylation, catalyzed by the yeast PP1 phosphatase Glc7 in complex with the Reg1 protein. Previous studies have shown that Reg1 can associate with both Snf1 and Glc7, suggesting substrate binding as a mechanism for Reg1-mediated targeting of Glc7. In this study, the association of Reg1 with the three Snf1 isoforms was measured by two-hybrid analysis and coimmunoprecipitation. We found that Reg1 association with Snf1 occurred almost exclusively with the Gal83 isoform of the Snf1 complex. Nonetheless, Reg1 plays an important role in determining the phosphorylation status of all three Snf1 isoforms. We found that the rate of dephosphorylation for isoforms of Snf1 did not correlate with the amount of associated Reg1 protein. Functional chimeric β subunits containing residues from Gal83 and Sip2 were used to map the residues needed to promote Reg1 association with the N-terminal 150 residues of Gal83. The Gal83 isoform of Snf1 is the only isoform capable of nuclear localization. A Gal83-Sip2 chimera containing the first 150 residues of Gal83 was able to associate with the Reg1 protein but did not localize to the nucleus. Therefore, nuclear localization is not required for Reg1 association. Taken together, these data indicate that the ability of Reg1 to promote the dephosphorylation of Snf1 is not directly related to the strength of its association with the Snf1 complex.
Consumer Memory Processes

Consumer memory refers to the processes that allow us to record and later retrieve experiences and information related to products, services, and consumption experiences. Consumer memory can be represented as an associative network or a massive network of associated ideas and concepts. When learning about brands, the strength of association between the brand node and other nodes will depend on how often the brand node is linked to the category with which it holds membership. Retrieval in associative networks occurs through a spreading activation process where the activation of a single node spreads to the nearby nodes. Retrieval cues are thought to improve target item recollection if the cues activate network nodes that are linked to the desired information. We examine a variety of marketing controlled factors or categories at the time of encoding and retrieval that influence memory performance. Keywords: memory; consumer behavior; associative networks; advertising contexts; cognitive processes
Drug trafficking: recent advances in therapeutics and disease.

Drug transporter proteins are of ever-increasing interest because of their role both in processes regulating pharmacokinetic properties of drugs (absorption, distribution, and elimination) and in the development of cellular drug resistance through decreased uptake or increased efflux of drugs in the target organ or tumor. Further understanding of the role of transporters in drug–drug interactions and identification of these proteins as possible therapeutic targets could contribute to improved treatment of a wide variety of diseases. Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics (2012); 92 5, 531–534. doi:10.1038/clpt.2012.167
Transgressive character expression in a hybrid sunflower species

Diploid hybrid lineages often are ecologically distinct from their parental species. However, it is unclear whether this niche divergence is typically achieved via hybrid intermediacy, a mixture of parental traits, and/or the evolution of extreme (transgressive) morphological and ecophysiological features. Here we compare an extensively studied hybrid sunflower species, Helianthus anomalus, with its putative parents, H. annuus and H. petiolaris, for 41 morphological and 12 ecophysiological traits. Helianthus anomalus was morphologically intermediate for one trait (2.4%), parental-like for 23 traits (56.1%), and transgressive for 17 traits (41.5%). For ecophysiological traits, H. anomalus was not significantly different from one or both parents for nine traits (75%), and was transgressive for the remaining three (25%). Thus, H. anomalus appears to be a mosaic of parental-like and transgressive phenotypes. Although the fitness effects of the transgressive characters are not yet known, many of these characters are consistent with adaptations reported for other sand dune plants. Genetic studies are currently underway to ascertain whether these extreme characters arose as a direct byproduct of hybridization or whether they evolved via mutational divergence.
Estimating Transmission Potential in Gastrointestinal Nematodes (Order: Strongylida)

Microparasite virulence (the potential to cause harm in the host) is thought to be regulated by a direct trade-off with pathogen transmission potential, but it is unclear whether similar trade-offs occur in macroparasites (helminths). In this analysis, the transmission potentials of 5 nematode species (order Strongylida), known to differ in their virulence, were estimated using an index based on egg production and larval survivability. Virulence estimates were based on the minimum number of worms that cause host death. In nematode species where mature adults cause pathology (trichonematidic development), there is a direct relationship between virulence and transmission, suggesting that high virulence is related to parasite fitness in these worms. However, in nematodes where the juvenile stages produce pathology during migration and development (strongylidic development), virulence is not correlated with transmission. These data suggest that trade-offs between transmission and virulence in nematode parasites are not analogous for all species and may depend on the developmental strategy and mechanism of pathogenicity of the parasites.
Research on School Principals in the United States (2003–2013)

The purpose of this chapter is to review current empirical research on the school principalship in the United States from 2003 to 2013. Ninety-four articles from the Educational Administration Quarterly were reviewed. Based on this review, six themes emerge from a decade of research. The themes include (1) principal leadership matters; (2) principal effects on student learning; (3) feminization of school administration; (4) examining principal preparation programs; (5) intersection of race, ethnicity, leadership, and learning; and (6) a job too big for one. Though each theme is treated as a discrete topic in this review, they are not mutually exclusive. There are many overlaps and blends of ideas, concepts, and research findings cutting across the six themes.
The quality of life of home-ventilated children and their primary caregivers plus the associated social and economic burdens: a prospective study

Background Despite the obvious challenges faced by families caring for children on home ventilation, there is surprisingly little research into the details of their daily lives. In particular, little is known about the quality of life of the child and caregiver plus the associated social and economic burdens of care. Methods We prospectively studied 90 families enrolled in a paediatric home ventilation service in British Columbia. In the clinic, we recorded demographic information, patient acuity score and quality of life for patient and caregiver using standardised questionnaires. Parents then monitored social and financial costs of care at home over the subsequent 8 weeks. These data were collected by telephone at 1 and 2 months. Results Most children led rich active lives. Camping trips, wheelchair sports and foreign travel were the norm, not the exception. Over 90% assessed the burden of care as mild or moderate. Government support covers medical expenses and home nursing (median 32 h/week, IQR 0–62.5 h). Monthly unreimbursed family expenses were low (median $87.7, IQR $15.3–$472). Despite this, nearly 25% of primary caregivers assessed burden of care as severe and over 50% had chronic illnesses requiring daily medication (principally depression, anxiety and arthritis). Quality of life for children or caregivers did not correlate with income or education. Interpretation Home ventilation of complex children is a successful strategy but it places significant strain on the primary caregiver. Specific attention to the physical and mental health of the caregiver should be an integral part of the management of home-ventilated children. Trial registration number NCT01863992.
Assessment of Exposure to VOCs among Pregnant Women in the National Children's Study.

Epidemiologic studies can measure exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) using environmental samples, biomarkers, questionnaires, or observations. These different exposure assessment approaches each have advantages and disadvantages; thus, evaluating relationships is an important consideration. In the National Children’s Vanguard Study from 2009 to 2010, participants completed questionnaires and data collectors observed VOC exposure sources and collected urine samples from 488 third trimester pregnant women at in-person study visits. From urine, we simultaneously quantified 28 VOC metabolites of exposure to acrolein, acrylamide, acrylonitrile, benzene, 1-bromopropane, 1,3-butadiene, carbon disulfide, crotonaldehyde, cyanide, N,N-dimethylformamide, ethylbenzene, ethylene oxide, propylene oxide, styrene, tetrachloroethylene, toluene, trichloroethylene, vinyl chloride, and xylene exposures using ultra high performance liquid chromatography coupled with an electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-ESI/MSMS) method. Urinary thiocyanate was measured using an ion chromatography coupled with an electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry method (IC-ESI/MSMS). We modeled the relationship between urinary VOC metabolite concentrations and sources of VOC exposure. Sources of exposure were assessed by participant report via questionnaire (use of air fresheners, aerosols, paint or varnish, organic solvents, and passive/active smoking) and by observations by a trained data collector (presence of scented products in homes). We found several significant (p < 0.01) relationships between the urinary metabolites of VOCs and sources of VOC exposure. Smoking was positively associated with metabolites of the tobacco constituents acrolein, acrylamide, acrylonitrile, 1,3-butadiene, crotonaldehyde, cyanide, ethylene oxide, N,N-dimethylformamide, propylene oxide, styrene, and xylene. Study location was negatively associated with the toluene metabolite N-acetyl-S-(benzyl)-l-cysteine (BMA), and paint use was positively associated with the xylene metabolites 2-methylhippuric acid (2MHA) and 3-Methylhippuric acid & 4-methylhippuric acid (3MHA + 4MHA). A near-significant (p = 0.06) relationship was observed between acrylamide metabolites and observation of incense.
Force-Displacement Model of the FlexSuRe™ Spinal Implant

This paper presents modeling of a novel compliant spinal implant designed to reduce back pain and restore function to degenerate spinal disc tissues as well as provide a mechanical environment conducive to healing of the tissues. Modeling was done through the use of the pseudo-rigid-body model. The pseudo-rigid-body model is a 3 DOF mechanism for flexion-extension (forward-backward bending) and a 5 DOF mechanism for lateral bending (side-to-side). These models were analyzed using the principle of virtual work to obtain the force-deflection response of the device. The model showed good correlation to finite element analysis and experimental results. The implant may be particularly useful in the early phases of implant design and when designing for particular biological parameters.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Conformation and absolute configuration of β-methyllanthionine

Abstract If the bicyclic peptide ring proposed by Gross et al . (1,2) does in fact exist in nisin and related antibiotics, then the unusual β-methyllanthionine component must be significantly distorted from its conformation in the free state, as determined by x-ray structure analysis. The torsion angles about the SCβ bonds are 50–100° from the torsion angles in models of the sulfur-bridged peptide ring proposed for nisin. The chirality of the methylated β-carbon atom is (S). The conformation of the amino acid differs from that of meso -lanthionine only by a 180° rotation of a carboxyl group about the C α D C β (CH 3 ) bond.
Elective genital surgery at one year of age: psychological and surgical considerations.

The optimal time for elective genital surgery in boys appears to be from about 6 to 18 months of age. The developmental, psychosocial, anesthetic, and surgical factors contributing to this conclusion are discussed.
Preoperative Diagnosis of Renal Angiomyolipoma

AbstractSix cases of renal angiomyolipoma are reviewed. In 5 of these 6 cases a characteristic radiolucent fat sign was present overlying the renal mass. In 10 cases of hypernephroma selected only on the basis of a tissue diagnosis and the availability of a pre-injection scout film this sign was not present. The recent literature is reviewed on the radiographic diagnosis of angiomyolipoma. We conclude that angiography is not reliable in the differentiation of angiomyolipoma from hypernephroma. However, demonstration of a radiolucency on the pre-injection scout film is virtually pathognomonic of angiomyolipoma. Tomographic cuts without contrast injection may increase diagnostic accuracy
Decentralized coordinated motion for a large team of robots preserving connectivity and avoiding collisions

We consider the general problem of moving a large number of networked robots toward a goal position through a cluttered environment while preserving network communication connectivity and avoiding both inter-robot collisions and collision with obstacles. In contrast to previous approaches that either plan complete paths for each individual robot in the high-dimensional joint configuration space or control the robot group as a whole with explicit constraints on the group's boundary and inter-robot pairwise distance, we propose a novel decentralized online behavior-based algorithm that relies on the topological structure of the multi-robot communication and sensing graphs to solve this problem. We formally describe the communication graph as a simplicial complex that enables robots to iteratively identify the frontier nodes and coordinate forward motion through the sensing graph. This approach is proved to automatically deform robot teams for collision avoidance and always preserve connectivity. The effectiveness of our approach is demonstrated using numerical simulations. The algorithm is shown to scale linearly in the number of robots.
A randomized clinical trial examining the effects of an anxiety sensitivity intervention on insomnia symptoms: Replication and extension

Insomnia disorder is impairing and prevalent, particularly among individuals with comorbid anxiety disorders. Despite the availability of effective computerized treatments for insomnia, there are few that target both insomnia as well as co-occurring anxiety symptoms. The current study tests the efficacy of a computerized treatment for anxiety sensitivity cognitive concerns, a transdiagnostic risk factor for anxiety, mood, and insomnia symptoms, against a repeated contact control, on reducing insomnia symptoms. Hypotheses were tested in a mixed clinical sample of community individuals presenting for a treatment study (n = 151) who were followed up 1-, 3- and 6-months after treatment. Results indicated that the anxiety sensitivity intervention resulted in reductions in insomnia symptoms and clinically significant insomnia scores at 3- and 6-month follow-ups. These reductions remained significant when covarying for concurrent reductions in depression and anxiety. Models accounted for 15–54% of the variance in follow-up insomnia symptoms. Current findings add to a growing body of literature suggesting anxiety sensitivity may play a causal role in insomnia symptoms. Results also suggest that targeting anxiety sensitivity may be an effective way to reduce insomnia symptoms in a brief and portable intervention that also reduces symptoms commonly comorbid with insomnia disorder.
Quantitative OCT Angiography Evaluation of Peripapillary Retinal Circulation after Plaque Brachytherapy.

Purpose To study peripapillary retinal capillary circulation in eyes treated with iodine 125 (I125) plaque brachytherapy for uveal melanoma using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). Design Cross-sectional study of 10 participants imaged with OCTA before uveal melanoma treatment and 15 participants imaged after development of radiation retinopathy, optic neuropathy, or both. Participants After institutional review board approval, participants were enrolled from an academic ocular oncology clinical practice. All participants had uveal melanoma in 1 eye, and treatment with I125 plaque brachytherapy was planned or had taken place previously. Patients with low vision at baseline and uncontrolled hypertension were excluded. In the posttreatment group, 7 participants were men and 8 were women; age range was 38 to 81 years. Visual acuities in the irradiated eyes ranged from 20/20 to counting fingers. Visual acuities in the untreated fellow eyes were 20/25 or better. Methods Peripapillary retinal capillary circulation was measured by OCTA (Optovue, Inc). Optic disc scans measuring 4.5 × 4.5 mm were obtained. Main Outcome Measures The relationship of the peripapillary retinal capillary density (PPCD) as measured by OCTA to the calculated dose to the optic nerve (the dose to 50% of the disc [D50]) and visual acuity in logarithm of the minimal angle of resolution units were evaluated. Results No significant differences were observed in the PPCD as measured by OCTA when comparing the eye with melanoma with the fellow eye before brachytherapy; however, the PPCD was significantly lower in treated eyes (52.9% ± 22.4%) than in fellow eyes that did not receive radiation (73.3% ± 13.7%; P = 0.004). There was an inverse linear correlation between D50 and the PPCD (Pearson's r = −0.528; P = 0.043) and between visual acuity and the PPCD (Pearson's r = −0.564; P = 0.028). Conclusions Among patients with clinically apparent radiation retinopathy, radiation optic neuropathy, or both, PPCD was lower in the treated eye and correlated with the radiation dose to the optic nerve and the visual acuity. Optical coherence tomography angiography provides a measure of capillary changes after radiation and may serve as a quantitative end point to address visual prognosis.
Optimal filter tuning to minimize the transient overvoltages on machine windings fed by PWM inverters

Modern Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) inverter output voltage produces electrical stresses on the windings of induction machines due to fast rise times. The feeder cable of this type of arrangement produces additional stresses on the windings. This paper proposes an optimized filtering technique to mitigate the transient overvoltages and reduce the associated stresses. Multi-objective optimization algorithms are used to find the parameters of an RLC filter that minimizes the objective functions (rise time, setting time, and over shoot) in the output voltage. For that purpose, a non-uniform transmission line model of the machine winding is used to predict the transient voltage propagation along the machine winding. The winding parameters are computed using the finite element method. The feeder cable is included by means of a distributed parameter model whose parameters are obtained from measurements. The simulation results are validated by means of measurements on an experimental cable-coil setup. Finally, the optimal filter obtained from simulations is physically constructed to test its performance on the experimental coil.
Breast MR Imaging: Atlas of Anatomy, Physiology, Pathophysiology, and Breast Imaging Reporting and Data Systems Lexicon

The latest edition of the Breast Imaging Reporting and Data Systems lexicon, copyrighted in 2013, contains several changes to the breast MR imaging section. Most changes were implemented to standardize descriptors across breast imaging modalities. New sections on special topics and implant evaluation are included. We review basic MR imaging breast anatomy and a detailed pictorial review of the Breast Imaging Reporting and Data Systems lexicon, including these new sections. In each section we discuss which descriptors are more concerning for malignancy and information radiologists can use to better categorize findings as lower risk or benign.
Ongoing work and improvements at the Sandia Fog Facility (Conference Presentation)

Degraded visual environments are a cause of problems for surveillance systems and other sensors due to the reduction in contrast, range, and signal. Fog is a concern because of the frequency of its formation along our coastlines; disrupting border security, shipping, surveillance, and sometimes causing deadly accidents. Fog reduces visibility by scattering ambient/active illumination light obscuring the environment and limiting operational capability. Sandia has created a fog facility for the characterization and testing of optical and other systems. This facility is a 180 ft. by 10 ft. by 10 ft. chamber with temperature control that can be filled with a fog-like aerosol using 64 agricultural spray nozzles. We will discuss the physical formation of fog and how that is affected by the environmental controls at our disposal. We have recently made several improvements to the facility including temperature control and will present the results of these improvements on the aerosol conditions. We will discuss the characterization of the fog and instrumentation used for the characterization. In addition, we will present preliminary results from work at Sandia, that leveraged this facility to investigate using polarized light to enhance the range of optical systems in fog conditions. This capability provides a platform for performing optical propagations experiments in a known, stable, and controlled environment where fog can be made on demand.
Comparison of subinguinal microsurgical varicocelectomy (Goldstein's Technique) with inguinal varicocelectomy (Ivanissevich's Technique).

Introduction : Varicocele causing primary infertility can be dealt by open surgery, laparoscopy, venographic embolisation and microscopic surgery. Microscopic varicocelectomy by subinguinal incision is being compared with the more commonly performed traditional inguinal open varicoccelectomy. Material and Methods : Hundred males with primary infertility were divided randomly into two groups for inguinal and subinguinal varicocelectomy. Pre-operative and postoperative seminal parameters were compared. Both groups were analysed for post operative complications - iatrogenic hydrocele, testicular atrophy and recurrence of varicocele. Results : No significant difference was seen in improvement of seminal parameters and pregnancy rates between both groups. A significantly lower incidence of complications was noticed in subinguinal microscopic group.
Using the Collective System Design Methodology to Improve a Medical Center Emergency Room Performance

Emergency Room (ER) crowding is one of the more complex issues in the healthcare system worldwide. Crowding gives rise to long ER waiting times, patient dissatisfaction, and negative effects on a healthcare systems’ performance. This paper focuses on the utilization of the Collective System Design (CSD) methodology to optimize the performance of an ER, which is of principal importance both from a life-threatening and an economic standpoint. The CSD technique is applied to detect areas of deficiency and to identify the functional requirements of the system to address those issues. The ER and system engineering specialists’ team gathered data from the electronic medical center log and their system observation. The team determined the functional requirements and effective solutions, and implemented a continuous improvement plan to enhance ER performance. From a statistical standpoint, a significant decrease in the median of the door-to-doctor time measure (27 min vs 13 min) and a substantial improvement in the patients’ level of satisfaction with the quality of health care (20th percentile vs 41th percentile) were observed after the implementation of the CSD methodology. The CSD methodology augments the implementation of lean tools by providing a language for defining the requirements and corresponding solutions for a system design. Using the CSD methodology, results in a significant increase in the ER’s capacity to treat patients efficiently.
Effects of acute aerobic and concurrent exercise on skeletal muscle metabolic enzymes in untrained men

Acute exercise can increase skeletal muscle citrate synthase (CS) enzyme activity and resting skeletal muscle mitochondrial enzyme activity has been linked to maximal oxygen consumption ( $$\dot {V}{{\text{O}}_{2\hbox{max} }}$$ ). We investigated: (1) if acute aerobic exercise (AEx) increases muscle metabolic enzyme activities other than CS; (2) if the addition of acute resistance exercise (REx) enhances the response to AEx (A + REx); and (3) if post-exercise muscle metabolic enzyme activity was related to $$\dot {V}{{\text{O}}_{2\hbox{max} }}$$ . Twelve young, sedentary men completed 45 min of two-legged cycle ergometry at 55% of $$\dot {V}{{\text{O}}_{2\hbox{max} }}$$ and 3 sets of 8–12 repetitions of one-leg knee extensor at 55% of 1 repetition maximum (1-RM). Vastus lateralis biopsies were taken prior to and 1 h post AEx and A + REx for the measurement of phosphofructokinase (PFK), 3-l-hydroxyacyl CoA dehydrogenase (β-HAD), succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) and CS. As a group, there was no effect of acute AEx or A + REx on muscle PFK, β-HAD, CS, and SDH activities. Post exercise muscle PFK, β-HAD, CS, and SDH activities were related to higher $$\dot {V}{{\text{O}}_{2\hbox{max} }}$$ (r = 0.62–0.74). With participants grouped by $$\dot {V}{{\text{O}}_{2\hbox{max} }}$$ (LOW, 50th %), acute exercise-induced changes in muscle PFK, β-HAD, CS, and SDH were greater in NORM compared to LOW. These findings suggest acute exercise muscle metabolic enzyme activities are predictive of $$\dot {V}{{\text{O}}_{2\hbox{max} }}$$ and possibly supportive of higher $$\dot {V}{{\text{O}}_{2\hbox{max} }}$$ . Also, low $$\dot {V}{{\text{O}}_{2\hbox{max} }}$$ (below 30th percentile) appears to impair skeletal muscle metabolic enzyme responses to acute exercise.
Methylation, smoking, and reduced lung function.

Epigenome-wide methylation studies have identified biomarkers of lifetime smoking; this study shows these are also related to lung function. While mechanisms are not clear, these studies could identify gene targets for prevention, screening and treatment.http://bit.ly/30F63i2
User reactions to COVID-19 screening chatbots from reputable providers.

OBJECTIVES: The objective was to understand how people respond to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) screening chatbots. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted an online experiment with 371 participants who viewed a COVID-19 screening session between a hotline agent (chatbot or human) and a user with mild or severe symptoms. RESULTS: The primary factor driving user response to screening hotlines (human or chatbot) is perceptions of the agent's ability. When ability is the same, users view chatbots no differently or more positively than human agents. The primary factor driving perceptions of ability is the user's trust in the hotline provider, with a slight negative bias against chatbots' ability. Asian individuals perceived higher ability and benevolence than did White individuals. CONCLUSIONS: Ensuring that COVID-19 screening chatbots provide high-quality service is critical but not sufficient for widespread adoption. The key is to emphasize the chatbot's ability and assure users that it delivers the same quality as human agents.
The Irvine — Michigan — Brookhaven Deep Underground Detector — A Progress Report

We report on the development of an 8000 ton detector designed to study nucleon stability. Design criteria are reviewed and additional physics objectives, within the capabilities of the current detector, are noted.
Understanding size and strain induced variabilities in thermal conductivity of carbon nanotubes: a molecular dynamics study

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have shown excellent thermal conduction capabilities and are ideal for thermal management in miniature nano-electronic devices and composite systems. As we go down the lengt...
Canine and feline haemangiosarcoma.

Introduction Haemangiosarcoma (HSA) is a malignant neoplasm of dogs and cats that is suspected to originate from a pluripotent bone marrow progenitor with a complex and multifactorial pathogenesis. Approach Pertinent literature was identified, reviewed, and summarized for inclusion in the manuscript. Results/interpretation Dogs are more frequently diagnosed with HSA than cats, and primary sites of this disease include dermal, subcutaneous/intramuscular, and visceral (most commonly the spleen). Dogs and cats with HSA generally have a poor prognosis owing to the rapid and widespread metastasis typically associated with this disease. However, some forms such as cutaneous HSA behave in a less aggressive fashion with improved outcomes. Surgical excision and anthracycline-based chemotherapy remain the mainstays of treatment, although novel treatment modalities are currently under investigation for potential roles in treatment of this disease. Conclusion This review aims to describe the clinical presentation and progression of the various forms of HSA in dogs and cats as well as to provide a systematic review of the veterinary literature with a focus on the various published treatment options and associated outcomes.
Measuring Real-Time Medication Effects From Electroencephalography

Background: Evaluating the effects of anti-seizure medication and response to treatment in patients with epilepsy remains a slow, challenging and manual process. A digital biomarker for medication effects and/or epileptogenicity would provide useful and objective information that guides clinical decision making. The aim of this study is to determine if the effect of anti-seizure medications on patients with epilepsy can be quantitatively measured in near real-time from electroencephalography (EEGs). Methods: We screened patients admitted to the Long-Term Monitoring Unit at Boston Children’s Hospital for pre-surgical evaluation. We selected two 30-second EEG excerpts from a period before and after medication weaning, were selected for nonlinear analysis from each patient. Findings: We found measurable effects of anti-seizure medications across all nonlinear measures of patients on high or low amounts on medication. Patients with a moderate number of expected seizures per day showed a larger medication effect on the brain than patients with rare or frequent seizures. Patients on four or more medications showed the largest effect size pre- and post- medication weaning. The seizure onset zone of the brain responded differently to medication than the rest of the brain. Patients with a clinically-determined lack of response to medication had distinctly different brain electrodynamics compared to patients who did have a response to medication. These medication effects correlate with the inferred level of epileptogenicity in a patient’s brain. Interpretation: Multifrequency nonlinear EEG analysis shows promise for identifying digital biomarkers to measure medication effects and evaluate response to treatment in patients with epilepsy. Funding Statement: Dr. Sathyanarayana was supported by T32HD040128 from the NICHD/NIH. TL, REA, and MJ were supported by the Epilepsy Research Fund. Declaration of Interests: WJB and TL are named on a patent submitted and held by the Boston Children’s Hospital Technology Development Office that includes the signal analysis methods discussed in this article. TL is part of patent applications to detect and predict clinical outcomes, and to manage, diagnose, and treat neurological conditions, epilepsy, and seizures. The other authors declare that they have no other competing financial or non-financial interests. Ethics Approval Statement: The Institutional Review Board approved the study prior to data acquisition, and was deemed exempt from consent.
Effectively using multifidelity optimization for wind turbine design

Abstract. Wind turbines are complex multidisciplinary systems that are challenging to design because of the tightly coupled interactions between different subsystems. Computational modeling attempts to resolve these couplings so we can efficiently explore new wind turbine systems early in the design process. Low-fidelity models are computationally efficient but make assumptions and simplifications that limit the accuracy of design studies, whereas high-fidelity models capture more of the actual physics but with increased computational cost. This paper details the use of multifidelity methods for optimizing wind turbine designs by using information from both low- and high-fidelity models to find an optimal solution at reduced cost. Specifically, a trust-region approach is used with a novel corrective function built from a nonlinear surrogate model. We find that for a diverse set of design problems—with examples given in rotor blade geometry design, wind turbine controller design, and wind power plant layout optimization—the multifidelity method finds the optimal design using 38 %–58 % the computational cost of the high-fidelity-only optimization. The success of the multifidelity method in disparate applications suggests that it could be more broadly applied to other wind energy or otherwise generic applications.