cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Efficient Electrosteric Assembly of Nanoparticle Heterodimers and Linear Heteroassemblies.

Bottom-up approaches to the synthesis of nanostructures are of particular interest because they offer several advantages over the traditional top-down approaches. In this work, we present a new method to self-assemble nanoparticles into controlled heteroaggregates. The technique relies on carefully balancing attractive electrostatic forces with repulsive steric hindrance that is provided by surface-grafted polyethylene glycol (PEG). Two different-sized gold nanoparticles (GNPs) were used as a model system: 13 nm GNPs were functionalized with PEG-thiol and mercapto dodecanoic acid, while 7 nm GNPs were functionalized with PEG-thiol and (11- Mercaptoundecyl)trimethylammonium bromide. When mixed together, these oppositely charged particles self-assemble into stable colloidal structures (i.e., nanoclusters) whose structure depends strongly on the surface concentration of PEG. Smaller structures are obtained as the PEG surface concentration increases because steric hindrance dominates and prevents uncontrolled...
Improved Survival of Stage I Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: A VA Central Cancer Registry Analysis

Abstract Introduction The combined impact of advances in diagnosis and treatment of stage I NSCLC has not been assessed comprehensively. To define the survival impact of modern staging and treatment techniques for clinical stage I NSCLC, the Veterans Administration Central Cancer Registry, a database of U.S. veterans in whom the disease was diagnosed in the Veteran's Health Administration, was queried. From this database, patients who had stage I NSCLC diagnosed from 2001 to 2010 and were treated with either surgery or radiation were identified. Methods Overall survival (OS) and lung cancer–specific survival were determined. Propensity score matching and Cox multivariate analysis were used to adjust for baseline patient characteristics. Results A total of 11,997 patients were identified. The 4-year OS rate increased from 38.9% to 53.2% from 2001 to 2010 for all patients. Positron emission tomography and endobronchial ultrasound did not improve OS. Survival of radiated patients improved from 12.7% to 28.5%. The introduction of stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) significantly improved OS (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.60, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.54–0.68) and lung cancer–specific survival (HR = 0.39, 95% CI: 0.32–0.46) compared with conventionally fractionated radiation. The 4-year OS rate also improved after surgery (from 51.5% to 66.5%). This increase was associated with use of adjuvant chemotherapy, increased use of video-assisted thoracoscopic surgical procedures, and decreased pneumonectomy rates, with similar survival between open and video-assisted thoracoscopic surgical procedures. OS after lobectomy was superior to that after sublobar resection (HR = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.75–0.89). In the era of available SBRT (2008–2010), 4-year OS was not significantly different after sublobar resection or lobectomy for medically unfit patients (Charlson comorbidity index = 2) (55.4% and 58.1%, respectively; p = 0.69) but was significantly worse for fit patients (Charlson comorbidity index = 0–1) undergoing sublobar resection (55.5% and 68.0%, respectively; p OS (HR = 0.36, 95% CI: 0.35–0.38) and lung cancer–specific survival (HR = 0.31, 95% CI: 0.29–0.33) were improved after surgery as compared with after radiation, with the improvement maintained on matched comparison of lobectomy and SBRT. Conclusions OS increased in veterans with a diagnosis of stage I NSCLC from 2001 to 2010; the increase was coincident with improved radiation and surgical techniques.
Denkwerkzeug: Die Welle der Wirksamkeit – die optimale Balance finden

Gestern sas ich mit dem Leiter des Amazon-Verteilerzentrums Munchen zusammen und wir sprachen daruber, wie Amazon es schafft, eine Bestellung innerhalb eines Tages ausliefern zu konnen. Wir philosophierten von optimierten Wegen, die Artikel aus dem Regal zu holen, bis hin zur Beladung der eigenen Verteilerfahrzeuge nach kurzesten und effizientesten Routen. Alles schien mir nach Effizienzkriterien ausgerichtet zu sein. Erganzend wurde mir berichtet, dass sogar wenn ein Fahrer ausfallt dafur Sorge getragen wird, dass umgehend ein Ersatz zur Verfugung steht.
Continuous Adductor Canal Blocks Provide Superior Ambulation and Pain Control Compared to Epidural Analgesia for Primary Knee Arthroplasty: A Randomized, Controlled Trial.

Abstract Background Adductor canal blocks (ACBs) are an alternative to femoral nerve blocks that minimize lower extremity weakness. However, it is unclear whether this block will provide analgesia that is equivalent to techniques, such as epidural analgesia. The purpose of this randomized controlled trial was to compare continuous ACBs with epidural analgesia for primary total knee arthroplasty. Methods Following institutional review board approval, 145 patients were randomized to 1 of 3 groups: combined spinal-epidural (CSE), spinal + continuous ACB (CACB), or general + CACB. Epidural analgesia was used postoperatively in the CSE group, and an adductor canal catheter was used in the CACB groups. Power analysis determined that 84 patients per group were needed to demonstrate a 35% increase in ambulation with an alpha of 0.05 at a power of 90%. Results At interim analysis, 13 patients were removed for protocol deviations, leaving 45 in CSE, 41 in spinal + CACB and 46 in general + CACB groups. Patient demographics were similar in all comparisons suggesting appropriate randomization. Patients in the CACB groups walked further on postoperative day 1, 2, and 3 ( P = .02). Mean daily pain scores were lower in the CACB groups (4.1 CSE, 3.0 spinal + CACB, 3.4 general + CACB, P = .009). There was no significant difference in total opioid consumption between groups (158 morphine equivalents CSE, 149 spinal + CACB, and 172 general + CACB). More patients reported being “very satisfied” in CACB groups (68% general + CACB, 63% spinal + CACB, and 36% CSE; P = .001). Conclusion Continuous adductor analgesia provides superior ambulation, lower pain scores, faster discharge, and greater patient satisfaction when compared to epidural analgesia for primary total knee arthroplasty.
Maximizing Agricultural Production

(1970). Maximizing Agricultural Production. Research Management: Vol. 13, No. 2, pp. 89-110.
New Investigative Regimens and Cytotoxic Agents in Thoracic Cancers: Gemcitabine and Pemetrexed

Several new antimetabolites, administered alone or in combination, are changing the therapeutic landscape for thoracic cancer. Two-drug combinations involving these newer drugs are becoming the standard of care for non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), largely due to improvements in survival rates, time to disease progression, and response rates as well as an improved safety profile. Gemcitabine (Gemzar) has elicited considerable interest in this disease, as a combination partner in chemotherapeutic regimens. Another promising agent is pemetrexed (Alimta), a folate-based inhibitor of thymidylate synthase. In preclinical development, pemetrexed both alone and in combination with other cytotoxic agents has exhibited activity across a broad range of tumor models, including NSCLC and mesothelioma. In clinical trials of patients with NSCLC, pemetrexed has been an effective, well-tolerated agent that can be used as monotherapy or in combination with other agents at full dose. In clinical trials of patients with mesothelioma, the combination of pemetrexed and cisplatin demonstrated a significant improvement in survival, response, and patient quality-of-life parameters. The principle toxicities of pemetrexed can be minimized by folate and vitamin B12 supplements.
Antibiotics in Otolaryngology: A Practical Approach

This chapter provides an overview of common antibiotics encountered in otolaryngology with a summary of microbial spectrum of activity, clinical indications, and adverse effects. A clinical approach to choosing antibiotics is outlined. Antibiotic stewardship is highlighted, with an emphasis on the optimal use of antibiotics.
Exploring Cannabis use by Patients with Multiple Sclerosis in a state where Cannabis is legal (P2.419)

Objective: To evaluate MS patients’ cannabis use, focusing on: 1) prevalence; 2) product types used (e.g., smoked cannabis vs edibles); 3) symptoms treated; and 4) patient characteristics. Background: Studies suggest cannabis may improve symptoms like muscle spasm and pain in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. Nonetheless, there is little research exploring the extent and reasons for cannabis use among MS patients, particularly in a state where cannabis is recreationally available. Design/Methods: Patients at the Rocky Mountain Multiple Sclerosis Center at the University of Colorado completed questions assessing willingness to use cannabis in MS treatment, previous and current use, impact of cannabis on MS symptoms, MS history, and demographics, as well as the Patient Determined Disease Steps (PDDS), the Patient Reported Outcome Measure Information System (PROMIS 10), and the Neuro-QOLv2.0 Cognitive Function short-form measure. Results: Preliminary results from 25 participants are presented. Thus far, 56% of respondents believe cannabis has some benefit on MS symptoms, 8% some harm, and 24% were unsure. 19 (76%) respondents indicated they would consider cannabis to manage their MS. 7 (28%) patients reported cannabis use in the past year; 71% medicinal, 0% recreational, and 29% both. 3 (43%) cannabis users preferred CBD-only products and 3 (43%) preferred products with similar quantities of CBD/THC. Cannabis products were mostly used for pain (57%), spasticity/muscle tightness (29%), or muscle spasm (14%); slowed thinking was the most common side effect (29%). Of the 12 (48%) respondents not currently using cannabis, 4 (33%) indicated this was because it is illegal, and 6 (50%) because they do know enough about it. Conclusions: As cannabis becomes more available under the laws of individual states, the results of this ongoing study may have important implications in the future landscape of MS symptom treatment and research exploring the efficacy of cannabis for MS symptom management. Disclosure: Dr. Weinkle has nothing to disclose. Dr. Shelton has nothing to disclose. Dr. Sillau has nothing to disclose. Dr. Domen has nothing to disclose. Dr. Nair has received personal compensation for consulting, serving on a scientific advisory board, speaking, or other activities with Astellas. Dr. Nair has received research support from Biogen, Novartis, Genentech, Gilead Sciences. Dr. Alvarez has received personal compensation for consulting, serving on a scientific advisory board, speaking, or other activities with Actelion, Biogen, Celgene, EMDSerono, Genzyme, Genentech, Novartis, Teva, and TG pharmaceuticals.
Big data transfer optimization through adaptive parameter tuning

Abstract Obtaining optimal data transfer performance is of utmost importance to today’s data-intensive distributed applications and wide-area data replication services. Tuning application-layer protocol parameters such as pipelining, parallelism, and concurrency can significantly increase efficient utilization of the available network bandwidth as well as the end-to-end data transfer performance. However, determining the best settings for these parameters is a challenging problem, as network conditions can vary greatly between sites and over time. Poor protocol tuning can cause either under- or over-utilization of network resources and thus degrade transfer performance. In this paper, we present three novel algorithms for application-layer parameter tuning and transfer scheduling to maximize transfer throughput in wide-area networks. Our algorithms use heuristics to tune the level of control channel pipelining (for small file optimization), the number of parallel data streams per file (for large file optimization), and the number of concurrent file transfers to increase I/O throughput (for all types of files). The proposed algorithms improve the transfer throughput up to 10x compared to the baseline and 7x compared to the state-of-the-art solutions. We also propose adaptive tuning to adjust the values of parameters based on real-time observations. The results show that adaptive tuning can further improve transfer throughput by up to 24% compared to the heuristic approach.
A Restriction Enzyme-PCR-Based Technique to Determine Transgene Insertion Sites

Currently, most genetically engineered rat strains are created by methods that involve random integration of transgenes into the genome. The ability to identify the chromosomal location of the transgene insertion site enables the development of efficient genotyping assays, allows segregation of multiple transgene integration sites to be followed while breeding, and facilitates characterization of possible positional effects on phenotype. Here we describe a method for determining the chromosomal location of transgene insertion that combines restriction endonuclease enzyme digest with subsequent rounds of PCR amplification to produce amplicons representing the chromosomal regions flanking the integrated transgene. This method provides a reliable means for determining the exact location of insertion of transgenes within the genome.
Protecting genetic difference.

This article surveys current legislation related to genetic privacy and discrimination, including Federal and State laws that prohibit, or could be used to prohibit, genetic discrimination in employment and insurance, and laws that protect genetic privacy. The relationship between protecting genetic privacy and prohibiting genetic discrimination is discussed. In part II of the article, the author discusses impediments to the creation of effective legislation to combat genetic discrimination. These include: (1) the difficulty of defining "genetic information," given the variety of information with genetic significance; and (2) the limited usefulness of laws narrowly focused on prohibiting genetic discrimination and the possibility of perverse results from such measures. Finally, the article addresses whether a property right in genetic data is needed to address the issue of genetic privacy. The author concludes that, unlike the case where a person's biological materials are used to develop a commercial product, intangible genetic data probably would not generate sufficient value to warrant the cost of enforcement by those affected. As the author explains, "the goal of protecting genetic information is not to preserve any value of the information, but to control its use and disclosure. For this purpose, requiring informed consent is probably sufficient, and the disincentive of potential recovery for conversion of the property is unnecessary." © 1998 Michael S. Yesley t Staff Attorney, Los Alamos National Laboratory. A.B. 1960, J.D. 1963, Harvard. Coordinator of the U.S. Department of Energy Program on the Ethical, Legal, and Social Implications of the Human Genome Project, 1990-1995. The views are the author's. BERKELEY TECHNOLOGY LAW JOURNAL
THE REDUCTIVE METABOLISM OF CARBON TETRACHLORIDE IN RECONSTITUTED MONOOXYGENASE SYSTEMS

The reduction of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) to chloroform (CHCI3) by reconstituted monooxygenase systems4 demonstrates that cytochrome P-450 is the enzyme that catalyzes the reaction. The reaction is totally inhibited by air and significantly inhibited by free radical scavengers. CCl4 metabolism, determined by both CHCl3 formation and CCl4 disappearance, could not be detected under aerobic conditions although significant levels of CCl4 -induced lipid peroxidation could be. These findings appear to contradict the accepted theory that a trichloromethyl radical is responsible for the initiation of the lipid peroxidation reaction.
Composition of bacterial ribosomal RNA: Heterogeneity within a given organism

Abstract 1. Ribosomal RNA fractions of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli have been analyzed by comparing the relative specific activities of pancreatic ribonuclease (EC 2.7.7.16) digest components of mixtures of 2 populations, one labeled with 32P and the other present in excess thus contributing all of the ultraviolet absorbing material. Variations from steady state labeling such as short-term pulse with or without a shift in the carbon source and steady state chase in various media resulted in extensive changes in the specific activities of some of the nucleotide fragments. Most of these changes were common to all growth conditions although there were indications that specific differences were correlated with a particular growth condition. The changes were most predominant in the RNA from 30-S ribosomes. 2. The differences were shown not to be due to contaminating D-RNA (used interchangeably with messenger RNA) or random polynucleotide polymers. The specific activity changes are best accounted for by assuming heterogeneity of ribosomal RNA.
Optional WH-movement in Babine-Witsuwit'en

In this article, Iargue that the Athabaskanlanguage Babine-Witsuwit'enexhibits optional wh-movement.The optional fronting is shownnot to be due totopicalization, focus, or clefling.Optional movement is of theoretical interestbecause it is not permitted in theMinimalist Program. Derivations are comparedand only the most economical succeeds; thus,the optional movement outcome isnot expected, and accounting for trulyoptional movement becomes an interestingquestion. I solve this problem by allowingoptional selection of C from thelexicon. If C and its wh-featureappear in the numeration, it will promptraising of a wh-feature and itsaccompanying wh-phrase to check off thewh-feature in C. If C does notappear in the numeration, then nowh-movement takesplace. It is shown how this proposal canaccount for the position of wh-phrasesin simple, complex, and embedded questions, aswell as account for scope factsin Babine-Witsuwit'en. The role of C inother languages – its selection from thelexicon and the projection of Cby certain verbs – is also briefly discussed.
Geodetic altitude to a triaxial ellipsoidal planet

An efficient theoretical model for determining geodetic altitudes with better than millimeter accuracy is proposed, with application to the TOPEX/Poseidon project. The triaxial ellipsoidal subsurface point of a satellite is used as the initial trial solution to achieve an efficient and simple iterative solution. It is found that the second-iteration solution is exact to an accuracy of at least 10 to the -9th km.
A New Single In-line Package of Intelligent Power Modules for low power Motor Drive Applications

A new SIP (Single In-line Package) IPM (intelligent Power Module) is a fully optimized inverter module for industrial motor drive applications. The size of the module is smaller than that of conventional SIP products of ON Semiconductor while keeping equivalent performance and reliability. Adoption of FS3 IGBTs and high performance FRDs improves the module performance. A built-in HVIC and bootstrap diodes are highly integrated with power components in one module, which enables to create the PCB layout simpler and easier. A new SIP IPM with the full mold type substrate enhances the cost effectiveness. Moreover, a DBC (Direct Bonded Copper) substrate will provide a technical advantage to further improve the performance in the future. This paper explains about electrical characteristics, circuit configurations, package technology, thermal performance and power rating of the improved new SIP IPM
SDN-Enabled Cyber-Physical Security in Networked Microgrids

A software-defined active synchronous detection (SDASD) is presented to protect networked microgrids (NMs) from cyberattacks on SDN network and power bot attacks on inverter controllers of distributed energy resources (DERs). A HostStatus_Checker is designed and embedded in an SDN controller to authenticate the entity of hosts for data communication of NMs. Based on the secured communication layer, active synchronous detection method is introduced to efficiently detect power bot attacks on DER controllers in NMs without impeding system normal operations. Extensive tests show that SDASD can detect and mitigate malicious attacks online and serve as a powerful safeguard for monitoring and protecting future NMs.
Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy in Congenital Heart Disease and Pediatric Patients with Heart Failure is Associated with Improved Survival

Purpose Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) has been shown to shorten QRS duration (QRSd) and improve ejection fraction (EF) in adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD) and children with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). It is not known whether CRT confers a survival benefit. We sought to determine whether CRT is associated with longer transplant-free survival after adjusting for patient factors. Methods All eligible patients ( 3) who received CRT were compared to a propensity score (PS)-matched cohort with similar characteristics at a single center between 2004 and 2017. Controls were identified from non-selective echocardiographic and ECG databases, with enrollment timed to first out-patient visit where all criteria were achieved (no CRT, EF 3). Primary endpoint was transplant-free survival. Results Of 128 patients who underwent CRT, 74 met all study inclusion criteria. 123 non-CRT controls met all inclusion criteria. Controls were younger with higher EF, but fewer had biventricular circulation. For the PS-matched cohorts (n=58 pairs), there were no differences in baseline characteristics (Table 1). Median follow-up was 2.3 years; risk of death or transplant was higher in the control group (HR 0.26 (95% CI 0.15-0.46), p Conclusion For ACHD patients and children with HFrEF, those receiving CRT had longer transplant-free survival and greater freedom from HF rehospitalization.
211) Deep Pain Mechanisms in Sickle Cell Disease

Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), an autosomal recessive red blood cell disorder, affects more than 100,000 individuals in the US. Deep pain that appears to stem from muscle and bones is a major complaint of patients with SCD and very little is known about putative mechanisms that cause this deep pain. To assess this pain, we used the Townes HbSS (SS) transgenic mouse model of SCD to perform behavioral assays including evoked withdrawal responses to gastrocnemius muscle pinch and the inverted screen hang, a potential measure of muscle or bone pain. For the muscle pinch assay, SS mice exhibited lower withdrawal thresholds than Townes AA controls. Furthermore, there was a sex difference between SS males and SS females in their withdrawal thresholds where females had higher sensitivity and greater pain-like behaviors than males. For the inverted screen hang assay, SS mice had significantly lower total hang time and more time on 3 paws or less compared to AA controls. Together these data suggest that these mice may experience greater deep pain. Because the TRPV1 channel has been shown to contribute to mechanical hypersensitivity in SCD mice, we used the selective and potent TRPV1 inhibitor A-425619 in behavioral assays. Intraperitoneal injection of A-425619 (100µmol/kg) partially reversed the sensitized muscle pinch withdrawal thresholds in both sexes of SS SCD mice, with a greater effect on males than in females. To further assess mechanisms underlying the sensitization in SCD mice, calcium imaging of lumbar DRG sensory neurons was performed to begin to investigate whether there is increased sensitization of sensory neurons to endogenous metabolites that could act on TRPV1, ASIC3, and P2X channels. In conclusion, these data suggest that the Townes SS mouse model of SCD has increased deep pain sensitivity compared to controls and this sensitivity appears to be partly mediated by TRPV1.
Fast two-quadrature adiabatic quantum gates for weakly nonlinear qubits: a tight-binding approach

Adiabatic gate operations required to remain within the qubit subspace in an anharmonic oscillator can be slow when compared to qubit decoherence times. However, significant gate speedups are possible using methods such as derivative-removal-by-adiabatic-gate (DRAG) (Motzoi et al. in Phys Rev Lett 103:110501, 2009), which creates spectral-holes near unwanted transitions. We analyze the effect of DRAG on the transmon qubit in some detail for cosine and truncated Gaussian pulses. An accurate tight-binding multi-level transmon model is presented here along with a multi-level Lindblad model and time-evolution methods to remove phase oscillations. It is shown that in addition to DRAG, the simultaneous optimization of the pulse truncation, detuning and the pulse norm significantly reduces leakage errors. For sharply truncated Gaussian pulses, DRAG leads to faster gates that are also stable against pulse jitter. However, for slow rising pulse envelopes, DRAG is not effective. This is explained using spectral analysis. Overall this can lead to much faster reverse-engineered qubit gates soon.
Relationships between body weight perception, body mass index, physical activity, and food choices in Southern California male and female adolescents

ABSTRACTUnderstanding the relationship between body weight perception (BWP) and weight control is an important influencer on adolescents’ health behaviours. The purpose of this study was to examine...
A Synthesis of Top-Down and Bottom-Up Impacts of the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill Using Ecosystem Modeling

The Deepwater Horizon (DWH) oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico (GoM) triggered the largest response to a spill in US history (Levy and Gopalakrishnan, J Nat Resources Pol Res, 2(3):297–315, 2010; Barron, Toxicol Pathol 40(2):315–320, 2012). The cumulative research from this response has resulted in hundreds of publications describing the range of impacts from the DWH event on various components of the system. An ecosystem-based approach to assessing the consequences of the DWH oil spill can help to address non-linear and ecosystem-level interactions (reviewed by Curtin and Prellezo, Mar Policy 34(5):821–830, 2010) and would be a key step toward integrating the knowledge gained from research efforts. Whereas Ainsworth et al. (PLoS One 13(1):e0190840, 2018) tested top-down effects of the oil spill on fish abundance and mortality, this chapter represents a synthesis of bottom-up and top-down effects across a broader range of taxa. Bottom-up effects relate to the accumulation of detrital biomass and oil on the seafloor as a result of marine oil snow sedimentation and flocculent accumulation (MOSSFA).
A DSP VLSI System Planner

In essence, the VLSI System Planning methodology acts as a framework for formalizing the decision-making process of design[105]. In the previous chapters we explained the methodology by presenting several design examples, such as an analog-to-digital converter, a memory subsystem, a finite state machine, an analog amplifier, etc. The objective of this chapter is to present in more detail the application of the VLSI System Planning methodology to the task of designing digital signal processing (DSP) filters. There are two reasons for presenting this example. The first reason is to show how the complex and diverse facets of digital filter design can be enumerated and consolidated into a more organized and logical process by using the VLSI System Planning methodology. Secondly, in a broader context, the digital filter design application is also intented to convey the “mindset”, or line of reasoning, involved in studying a design process, modeling the process as a hierarchy of design issues, delineating the options, and identifying the associated interdependencies and discriminating characteristics so that the reader may apply the VLSI System Planning methodology to his particular design task of Table 5.1 Digital Filter Design Issues Design Issues 1 Filter Algorithms 2 Filter Architectures 3 Multiplier Logic Designs 4 Adder Logic Designs 5 Layout Design Styles 6 Fabrication Technologies interest.
Women and Public Organization: An Examination of Mentorship and Its Effect on Reporting Workplace Discrimination:

A number of studies have focused on mentorship as a variable often associated with career advancement; however, there is little to no research on the impact mentors have with women reporting workpl...
95-GHz radar instrumentation system

The Georgia Institute of Technology Engineering Experiment Station is developing a pulsed, coherent, high-power 95 GHz instrumentation radar employing an extended interaction amplifier (EIA) transmitter. The system (HIPCOR-95) is intended to provide millimeter wave instrumentation support to future reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition programs. This paper describes the new technology which supports the development of such a radar and the characteristics and operating parameters of the system.
Variations in the P-T-t of Deformation in a Crustal-Scale Shear Zone in Metagranite

Deformation in crustal-scale shear zones occurs over a range of pressure-temperature-time (P-T-t) conditions, both because they may be vertically extensive structures that simultaneously affect mat...
INTERNET REACTOR LABORATORY: A NUCLEAR REACTOR PHYSICS AND ENGINEERING EDUCATION MODALITY FOR THE 21st CENTURY

The “second generation” Internet Reactor Laboratory (IRL) has been installed and is currently functional at the PULSTAR reactor of the Nuclear Reactor Program (NRP) at North Carolina State University (NCSU). The NRP has offered IRL based reactor physics experiments and training to external academic institutions and organizations since 2004. In 2016, the United States and the Republic of Vietnam entered into an Administrative Arrangement under Section 123 of the Atomic Energy Act, with a goal of enhancing nuclear training and education for Vietnamese engineering students. Funding was provided by the DOE to upgrade the PULSTAR IRL infrastructure to state-of-the-art remote data acquisition and video teleconferencing capabilities supporting content sharing across multiple remote user platforms. Subsequently, a Cisco Telepresence and LabView reactor data acquisition system were installed and commissioned at the PULSTAR facility. Using this “second generation” system, and during IRL sessions, up to 100 remote students may interact with the control room staff via the Telepresence system using their mobile device or PC, and view 130 channels of live reactor telemetry via the remote client LabView application while recording the data for subsequent review and analysis. LabView graphical user interfaces (GUI) are provided for each IRL module, and incorporate embedded supporting documents such as schematics and diagrams that aid in illustrating associated technical details and concepts. Consequently, the educational experience offered to remote students and trainees is enhanced and assured to be of the same quality as offered to onsite students/trainees at NCSU.
Nonlocal Optical Pump-THz Probe in the Near Field

We demonstrate the first “nonlocal” nanoscale NIR-pump THz-probe measurements of semi-insulating GaAs using a scattering-type scanning near-field microscopy technique. We observe temporal shifts in the photoexcitation response which correspond to lateral offsets in the pump spot.
Bridget Mary McCormack - Distinguished on Both Sides of the Bench

In 2012, U-M law school associate dean Bridget McCormack received a Distinguished Brief Award from the Western Michigan University-Cooley Law School law review. The next year she became a member of the Michigan Supreme Court, and in 2019 was selected as the court's Chief Justice. She offers advice to advocates appearing before her court, including an explanation of why "we do not care who wins."
Modulating β-arrestin 2 recruitment at the δ- and μ-opioid receptors using peptidomimetic ligands

μ-Opioid receptor agonists provide potent and effective acute analgesia; however, their therapeutic window narrows considerably upon repeated administration, such as required for treating chronic pain. In contrast, bifunctional μ/δ opioid agonists, such as the endogenous enkephalins, have potential for treating both acute and chronic pain. However, enkephalins recruit β-arrestins, which correlate with certain adverse effects at μ- and δ-opioid receptors. Herein, we identify the C-terminus of Tyr-ψ[(Z)CFCH]-Gly-Leu-enkephalin, a stable enkephalin derivative, as a key site to regulate bias of both δ- and μ-opioid receptors. Using in vitro assays, substitution of the Leu5 carboxylate with amides (NHEt, NMe2, NCyPr) reduced β-arrestin recruitment efficacy through both the δ-opioid and μ-opioid, while retaining affinity and cAMP potency. For this series, computational studies suggest key ligand–receptor interactions that might influence bias. These findings should enable the discovery of a range of tool compounds with previously unexplored biased μ/δ opioid agonist pharmacological profiles.
Gross Prosection of Melanocytic Lesions

The accurate diagnosis of melanocytic neoplasms depends not only on adequate clinical sampling and careful histopathological evaluation, but also on technical variables that affect tissue preservation. Tissues must be examined and processed in a way that allows for diagnosis, margin assessment, and subsequent performance of additional immunohistochemical or molecular studies if necessary. This chapter reviews handling techniques for the most commonly encountered cutaneous melanocytic lesions.
The Arabian Nights in Transnational Perspective

Reviewed Medium: book Year: 2007 Pages: 384 Publisher: Wayne State University Press ISBN: 978-0-8143-3287-0 (soft cover). Prices: $31.95 USD(soft cover).
The jets in SS 433

The unique 0.26 c stellar jets of SS 433 are reviewed, starting at the binary system, and then, using a natural separation by observing wavelength, following them out to successively larger scales over eight orders of magnitude. Recent work is emphasized in this review, and care is taken to provide up-to-date entry points into the extensive older literature on SS 433. This is an update of a similar review presented three years ago (Vermeulen 1993).
Guess who is listening in to the board meeting: on the use of mobile device applications as roving spy bugs

Covert listening devices-a combination of a miniature radio transmitter and a microphone-have been used as key espionage instruments as early as the mid-20th century. More recently, hackers have started exploiting inherent weaknesses in current mobile platforms allowing them to remotely convert a victim's smartphone device into a roving spy bug without his knowledge. The goal of this paper is to illustrate with the aid of an Android mobile platform application that permissions gained in a legitimate way can be used to evade the integrity and privacy of the mobile device and install malware that remains completely hidden. When the attacker makes a call to the victim's phone, he is able to listen in to the victim's surroundings transforming the mobile phone into a sophisticated covert listening device. This communication-level attack goes undetected by current detection mechanisms. An anomaly-based detection feature set is another contribution of this paper to mitigate the proposed attack. As more and more mobile devices are being rapidly integrated into enterprises with the increase in bring-your-own-device model in many organizations, without a rigorous security screening policy, this weakness tends to facilitate corporate espionage by presumably allowing as many spy bugs in the board meeting as there are attendees with mobiles. This work provides a demonstration of a dangerous espionage attack targeting smartphones whereby an attacker can, with the aid of an Android mobile platform application, make a call to the victim's phone and listen in to the victim's surroundings transforming the mobile phone into a sophisticated covert listening device. It also proposes and evaluates a defense technique to detect and mitigate the attack where existing security mechanisms fall short. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the Recursive Sequence x n+1= p + {{x_{n-k}} \over {x_{n}}}

Our aim in this paper is to investigate the boundedness, global stability and periodic character of solutions of the difference equation where k \in \{ 2,3, \ldots \} , p is positive and the initial conditions are arbitrary positive numbers.
WebDISCO: A web service for distributed cox model learning without patient-level data sharing

Objective The Cox proportional hazards model is a widely used method for analyzing survival data. To achieve sufficient statistical power in a survival analysis, it usually requires a large amount of data. Data sharing across institutions could be a potential workaround for providing this added power. Methods and materials The authors develop a web service for distributed Cox model learning (WebDISCO), which focuses on the proof-of-concept and algorithm development for federated survival analysis. The sensitive patient-level data can be processed locally and only the less-sensitive intermediate statistics are exchanged to build a global Cox model. Mathematical derivation shows that the proposed distributed algorithm is identical to the centralized Cox model. Results The authors evaluated the proposed framework at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD), Emory, and Duke. The experimental results show that both distributed and centralized models result in near-identical model coefficients with differences in the range 10 − 15 to 10 − 12 . The results confirm the mathematical derivation and show that the implementation of the distributed model can achieve the same results as the centralized implementation. Limitation The proposed method serves as a proof of concept, in which a publicly available dataset was used to evaluate the performance. The authors do not intend to suggest that this method can resolve policy and engineering issues related to the federated use of institutional data, but they should serve as evidence of the technical feasibility of the proposed approach. Conclusions WebDISCO (Web-based Distributed Cox Regression Model; ) provides a proof-of-concept web service that implements a distributed algorithm to conduct distributed survival analysis without sharing patient level data.
Hyponatremia due to sulfonylurea compounds.

ABSTRACT In a 68-yr-old female with diabetes mellitus and idiopathic cerebral atrophy, therapeutic doses of chlorpropamide or tolbutamide induced a hyponatremic syndrome identical with that of inappropriate secretion of ADH (serum Na 117 mEq/1). Metabolic studies revealed that the hyponatremia was due in part to negative sodium balance. There was no evidence of acute fluid retention since body weight, free water clearance and isotopic extracellular fluid volume were identical during control and drug periods. Diuresis was also absent, indicating inappropriate ADH activity during sulfonylurea-induced hyponatremia. Physicians using sulfonylurea drugs in the management of diabetes mellitus must be alert to the possible complication of hyponatremia.
Phenylamido and Diphenylamido Complexes of Chromium(II)

Addition LiNHPh to a [(NacNac)Cr(μ-I)]2 [NacNac = 2,4 pentane-N-N′-bis(2,6-diisopropylphenyl) ketiminato] in THF yields a dimeric anilido complex, 1, that crystallizes in P21/n with unit cell parameters a = 13.390(2) A, b = 26.298(5) A, c = 21.326(4) A, β = 93.905(4)°, V = 7492(2) A3 and Z = 4. The same reaction in the presence of aniline yields a monomeric anilido complex, 2, with a coordinated aniline molecule. Complex 2 crystallizes in P2 1 /c with unit cell parameters a = 28.530(5) A, b = 10.8116(18) A, c = 26.492(5) A, β = 115.685(3)°, V = 7364(2) A3 and Z = 8. Addition of aniline to isolated 1 yields 2. Addition of LiNPh2 to [(NacNac)Cr(μ-I)]2 in THF yields a monomeric complex that crystallizes in P21/n with the unit cell parameters a = 11.152(6) A, b = 23.820(12) A, c = 17.915(9) A, β = 106.223(9)°, V = 4569(4) A3 and Z = 4. All complexes have been spectroscopically and structurally characterized. Addition of LiNHPh or LiNPh2 to [(NacNac)Cr(μ-I)]2 yields a dimeric or a monomeric complex whereas addition of LiNHPh in the presence of aniline yields the monomeric anilido complex.
Prevalence of allergy in Meniere’s disease

OBJECTIVES: The goal of this study was to determine the prevalence of allergy in a population of patients with Meniere's disease.METHODS: A survey was mailed to all patients with Meniere's disease ...
A first principles model of metal oxide gas sensors for measuring combustibles

Abstract A first principles model is described for the operation of electrochemical type sensors designed to measure combustibles in air. It is based on the general principles presented in previous publications (A.D. Brailsford, E.M. Logothetis, Sens. Actuators, 7 (1985) 39–67; A.D. Brailsford, M. Yussouff, E.M. Logothetis, Sens. Actuators, B 13 (1993) 135–138; A.D. Brailsford, M. Yussouff, E.M. Logothetis, M. Shane, Sens. Actuators, B 24–25 (1995) 362–365; A.D. Brailsford, M. Yussouff, E.M. Logothetis, Sens. Actuators B 34 (1996) 407–411; and A.D. Brailsford, M. Yussouff, E.M. Logothetis, Sens. Actuators, B 35–36 (1996) 392–397) for an ab initio model developed to describe the operation of metal oxide oxygen sensors. The authors show that the e.m.f. of the combustibles sensor may be written as the difference between the e.m.f.s of two non-identical air-referenced oxygen sensors. This helps in the qualitative understanding of the observed and predicted responses of the combustibles sensors. The present model is used to analyze experimental data reported in the literature (H. Okamoto, H. Obayashi, T. Kudo, Solid State Ion. 1 (1980) 319–326; and A. Vogel, G. Baier, V. Schuele, Sens. Actuators B 15 (1993) 147–150) and to indicate the variety of behavior expected from these sensors depending on the properties of the electrode materials. This analysis is expected to aid the design and optimization of these sensors.
Renal disease associated with inherited disorders of the complement system

The human complement system is vital for host defense and plays a role in a number of inflammatory disorders. Inherited deficiency or dysfunction of most of the individual complement components occurs uncommonly. The phenotype displayed by such patients varies with the specific component deficiency and ranges from recurrent infections to autoimmune diseases. Most of the latter are associated with glomerulonephritis. The onset of severe lupus erythematosus in a young child, with prominent cutaneous and renal manifestations, especially if a similar disorder is present in another family member, is a clue to the presence of a complement component deficiency. The distinguishing of acquired deficiencies from inherited deficiencies in complement components is sometimes difficult and may require sophisticated laboratory testing.
A. N. Leont'ev and Soviet Psychology: An Introduction

In this journal issue we present four views of one of the most eminent figures in the history of Soviet psychology, Aleksei Nikolaevich Leont'ev. Two of the papers are by lifelong professional colleagues and friends, P. Ya. Gal'perin and D. B. El'konin; a third is by his student and son A. A. Leont'ev; and the fourth is by a longtime conversation partner who had no particular professional expertise in Leont'ev's discipline, V. F. Tendryakov.
Hyperion: 13-day rotation from Voyager data

The rotation period of Hyperion is determined here on the basis of a light-curve derived from low-resolution Voyager images taken over a two-month span. The data indicate a coherent 13-day spin period over 61 days, with the spin axis nearly parallel to the orbital plane. Since Hyperion is not in synchronous rotation, it cannot be used to test the hypothesis that dark dust spiralling inward on retrograde orbits causes the pronounced leading side/trailing side albedo asymmetry observed on the surface of Iapetus.
Colonic decompression and direct intraluminal medical therapy for Clostridium difficile-associated megacolon using a tube placed endoscopically in the proximal colon.

Aim Urgent colectomy for severe Clostridium difficile infection can be associated with increased morbidity and mortality. We aimed to use endoscopic methods for treatment. Method We describe a technique of placing an intracolonic tube facilitating decompression and direct delivery of vancomycin to the proximal colon along with enemas on a regular and frequent basis that may not be possible with vancomycin enemas alone. Results Successful resolution of the C. difficile infection and avoidance of surgery. Conclusion While further long-term evaluation is required, our initial results have shown it to be effective in treating select patients with recalcitrant Clostridium difficile-associated megacolon.
A Modified Molybdenum Blue Method for Orthophosphate Determination Suitable for Investigating Enzymatic Hydrolysis of Organic Phosphates

Abstract In characterizing organic phosphorus (Po) by phosphatase hydrolysis, the quantity of hydrolyzable Po is represented by the difference in orthophosphate [i.e., inorganic P (Pi)] determined after and prior to enzymatic incubation. Therefore, precise determination of Pi is of major importance for accurate application of the enzymatic hydrolysis approach. The strong acid conditions required for conventional molybdenum blue methods interferes with Pi determination due to rapid hydrolysis of labile Po and precipitation of enzymes (proteins). The molybdenum blue method of Dick and Tabatabai in 1977 reduced errors pertaining to nonenzymatic hydrolysis of Po. This study revisited the method, finding that the absorption coefficient at 850 nm was 45–49% higher than at 700 nm, and linear up to at least 80 nmol Pi in 1‐mL assay solution. Therefore, adaptation of the readings at 850 nm improved the sensitivities of Pi determination by about 45%. Enzyme precipitation during Pi determination was prevented by add...
Recruitment and retention of women graduate students in computer science and engineering: results of a workshop organized by the computing research association

T his document is the report of a workshop that convened a group of experts to discuss the recruitment and retention of women in Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) Graduate Programs. (1) Participants included long-time members of the CSE academic and research communities, social scientists engaged in relevant research, and directors of successful retention efforts. (2) The report is a compendium of the experience and expertise of workshop participants, rather than the result of a full-scale, scholarly study into the range of issues. Its goal is to provide departments with practical advice on recruitment and retention in the form of a set of specific recommendations. Women are significantly underrepresented in CSE academic departments [5][40]. As computing technology becomes increasingly pervasive, this underrepresentation translates into a loss of opportunity for individuals, a loss of talent to the workforce, and a loss of creativity in shaping the future of society. While there are many causes of this underrepresentation some rooted in early socialization and primary educational experiences academic departments at the university level nevertheless can have an effect [6][7]. In particular, an improvement at the graduate level in recruitment and retention (and thus in graduation rates) would enable more women to move into visible and influential positions in the CSE community. The increasing presence of these women would provide positive role models and mentors. In order to treat all students fairly, educators must pay attention to gender-based traits. Although in characterizing behaviors one must be careful to acknowledge the existence of individual differences and to avoid stereotyping, there is a large body of information on gender traits. There is strong evidence, for example, that women, even though they perform at the same levels, have less confidence in their abilities and individual accomplishments than men [2][17][36][39][43]. Women are often less aggressive than male students in promoting themselves, attempting new or challenging activities, and pursuing awards or fellowships. There is evidence that females come to computing as only one interest among many, and are thus less single-minded than their male counterparts [27]. Often women report feeling "out of place" in the male-dominated, hacker culture [3] [22] [28]. In light of such differences, some of our recommendations are gender-specific. Most, however, are not. The adoption of our recommendations would improve the educational environment for all students. The recommendations are given in two sections, the first