cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
ANALYSIS OF FORM AND FUNCTION IN NORTH AMERICAN COLUMNAR CACTI (TRIBE PACHYCEREEAE)

Simple and multivariate linear models were used to demonstrate the influence of mechanical design and climate on stem morphology and branching architecture in 25 species of North American columnar cacti. The effect of phyletic inertia was tested by the method of independent contrasts. Stem girth was found to increase significantly slower with increased height within taxa (cross-sectional stem area ;ps [plant height] 0.603), than across taxon (cross-sectional stem area ;ps [plant height] 1.451). Juveniles are shown to be mechanically overbuilt and subsequently grow into more slender adult forms determined in part by structural limitations and the optimization of other stem functions. We make a structural analogy of relatively rigid columnar cacti to concrete columns and compare plants and models with similar growth forms lacking woody skeletons (barrel cacti). Taxa with woody support achieved a surface-to-volume ratio six times greater than taxa without woody support. Across taxon, cooler winter temperatures were associated with larger stem girths, and greater annual precipitation was associated with less frequent branching. The relationship between total plant surface and volume approaches isometry within taxa, but across taxon average individuals are scaled replicates. We hypothesize that architecture and average plant height are adjusted, in an evolutionary sense, to maintain geometric similitude between surface and volume along a climatic gradient.
Orthopaedic . radiology . pathology conference: Chronic multifocal chest and leg pain in a 34-year-old woman.

Each author confirms that he or she has no commercial associations (eg, consultancies, stock ownership, equity interest, patent/licensing arrangements, etc) that might pose a conflict of interest in connection with the submitted article. Each author confirms that his or her institution has approved the reporting of this case report, that all investigations were conducted in conformity with ethical principles of research, and that informed consent for participation in the study was obtained.
Cramér-Rao bounds for determination of electric and magnetic susceptibilities in metasurfaces.

Accurate and robust characterization of metasurfaces and metamaterials in terms of effective parameters is critical to the design of novel metadevices. We compute the Cramer-Rao lower bounds on the variance of any estimator for both the electric and magnetic surface susceptibilities of metasurfaces. We show that retrieval of such effective properties is inherently difficult around resonances, most notably for low-loss metasurfaces. We also put forth a least-squares estimator to mitigate this difficulty for the normal components of susceptibility tensors, which are observed to be the most ill-behaved. The present work is relevant to the development of loss-compensated metasurfaces for which noise has to be closely considered for accurate and robust device characterization.
Insurance and catastrophes: The changing role of the liability system

Insurance catastrophes are increasingly the result of actions by human beings rather than nature. Chief among these insurance changes has been the surge in tort liability insurance costs. Unfortunately, the courts have misunderstood the mechanisms for transmitting these costs throughout the economy. A principal deficiency is that the structure of liability has been inconsistent with the courts' assumption that the losses could be borne by consumers or parties other than the insurer.
Detecting the presence of psk signals using composite hypothesis testing

In this paper, we study the problem of signal- presence detection, assuming a generic source transmission which can consist of separate pilot and data portions, in the high-power regime. In particular, we derive the optimum non- decision-directed test for the signal-presence hypothesis, which universally applies to all PSK data modulation strategies. For wireless fading channels, the optimum decision test is obtained by computing and thresholding a new proposed decision statistic: the "hybrid" non-coherent accumulation. Hybrid accumulation combines magnitude and power accumulations of the received antenna data, across multiple coherence intervals, or multiple coherence bands. All findings in this paper are derived theoretically, and subsequently verified using computer simulations.
Cytoplasmic inheritance of chloramphenicol resistance in tetrahymena.

ABSTRACT Chloramphenicol-resistant mutants of Tetrahymena pyriform9s were obtained after mutagenesis with nitrosoguanidine at an estimated frequency of 10 -3 mutants per mutagenized cell. The mutants are still partially sensitive to chloramphenicol and have a lowered growth rate, compared to the wild type strain, in rich medium without chloramphenicol. The genetic analysis described here indicates that chloramphenicol resistance is inherited as a cytoplasmic determinant that is not exchanged during conjugation. This represents the first simple cytoplasmic genetic determinant described in this species. A number of arguments favor a mitochondrial localization for this genetic determinant. In addition to the possible utility of such mutants for studies of mitochondrial structure and function in Tetrahymena, analogous mutations might serve as cytoplasmic "tags" in other ciliate species where the results of selfing need to be distinguished from those of outcrossing.
Differential effects of physiologically relevant hypoxic conditions on T lymphocyte development and effector functions.

Direct measurements revealed low oxygen tensions (0.5-4.5% oxygen) in murine lymphoid organs in vivo. To test whether adaptation to changes in oxygen tension may have an effect on lymphocyte functions, T cell differentiation and functions at varying oxygen tensions were studied. These studies show: 1) differentiated CTL deliver Fas ligand- and perforin-dependent lethal hit equally well at all redox conditions; 2) CTL development is delayed at 2.5% oxygen as compared with 20% oxygen. Remarkably, development of CTL at 2.5% oxygen is more sustained and the CTL much more lytic; and 3) hypoxic exposure and TCR-mediated activation are additive in enhancing levels of hypoxia response element-containing gene products in lymphocyte supernatants. In contrast, hypoxia inhibited the accumulation of nonhypoxia response element-containing gene products (e.g., IL-2 and IFN-gamma) in the same cultures. This suggests that T cell activation in hypoxic conditions in vivo may lead to different patterns of lymphokine secretion and accumulation of cytokines (e.g., vascular endothelial growth factor) affecting endothelial cells and vascular permeabilization. Thus, although higher numbers of cells survive and are activated during 20% oxygen incubation in vitro, the CTL which develop at 2.5% oxygen are more lytic with higher levels of activation markers. It is concluded that the ambient 20% oxygen tension (plus 2-ME) is remarkably well suited for immunologic specificity and cytotoxicity studies, but oxygen dependence should be taken into account during the design and interpretation of results of in vitro T cell development assays and gene expression studies in vivo.
Meeting demand for family planning within a generation: prospects and implications at country level

BackgroundIn order to track progress towards the target of universal access to sexual and reproductive health care services of the post-2015 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a measure (demand for family planning satisfied with modern contraceptive methods) and a benchmark (at least 75% by 2030 in all countries) have been recommended.ObjectivesThe goal of this study was to assess the prospects of reaching the benchmark at the country level. Such information can facilitate strategic planning, including resource allocation at global and country levels.DesignWe selected 63 countries based on their status as least developed according to the United Nations or as a priority country in global family planning initiatives. Using United Nations estimates and projections of family planning indicators between 1970 and 2030, we calculated percent demand for family planning satisfied with modern contraceptive methods for each year and country. We then calculated the annual percentage point changes between 2014 and ...
Intelligent optical backplanes

The paper describes three intelligent optical backplanes designs based on the smart pixel technology and free space optical interconnects. The applications to be discussed include a dynamically reconfigurable backplane, a space division switching fabric, and a packet based switching fabric.
An efficient methodology for the modeling of electromagnetic wave phenomena in domains with moving boundaries

A computationally efficient methodology is proposed for the modeling of electromagnetic wave phenomena inside a domain with moving boundaries. The proposed methodology, which, for the purposes of this paper is implemented numerically using the Finite Difference Time Domain method, relies upon the definition of an equivalent electromagnetic boundary value problem over a domain with fixed boundaries but with its electromagnetic properties exhibiting time variation. In this manner, the numerical solution of the problem is performed on a time-invariant computational domain, eliminating the need for re-meshing to accommodate the deformation caused by the moving boundaries. The validity of the proposed method is demonstrated through its application to the modeling of the Doppler shift of the stop-band of a corrugated parallel-plate waveguide caused by the motion of the corrugated wall along the axis of the waveguide.
Functional Connectivity: Integrating Behavioral, Diffusion Tensor Imaging, and Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Data Sets

& In the present study, we combined 2 types of magnetic resonance technology to explore individual differences on a task that required the recognition of objects presented from unusual viewpoints. This task was chosen based on previous work that has established the necessity of information transfer from the right parietal cortex to the left inferior cortex for its successful completion. We used reaction times (RTs) to localize regions of cortical activity in the superior parietal and inferior frontal regions (blood oxygen level-dependent [BOLD] response) that were more active with longer response times. These regions were then sampled, and their signal change used to predict individual differences in structural integrity of white matter in the corpus callosum (using diffusion tensor imaging). Results show that shorter RTs (and associated increases in BOLD response) are associated with increased organization in the splenium of the corpus callosum, whereas longer RTs are associated with increased organization in the genu. &
Finite groups as automorphism groups of orthocomplemented projective planes

Abstract A construction is given for a non-desarguesian projective plane P and anabsolute-point free polarity on P such that the group of collineations of Pwhich commute with the polarity is isomorphic to an arbitrary preassignedfinite group. Sabidussi (1957), in extending the fundamental work of Frucht (1949) prove, d thatevery finite group G (of order at least 2) may be represented as the automorphismgroup of a regular graph of degree 5. Schra (1971g, 1976 ) showed how to parlaythis result into a representation of G as the automorphism group of some ortho-modular lattice L. In this paper we show that L may be chosen to be an irreducibleorthocomplemented modular lattice of height 3, herein called an orthocomple-mented projective plane. In fact we shall prove the following result. THEOREM. Let G be a finite group. There exists a non-desarguesian projective planeP and an absolute-point free polarity ' on P and an injection coll(P) of Ginto the collineation group ofP such that image (<p) = {a e coll (P) | a' = 'a}.The idea of the proof is to look at Schrag's orthomodular lattice L withAut
Outcomes of lower extremity revascularization among the hemodialysis-dependent

Objective Optimal patient selection for lower extremity revascularization remains a clinical challenge among the hemodialysis-dependent (HD). The purpose of this study was to examine contemporary real world open and endovascular outcomes of HD patients to better facilitate patient selection for intervention. Methods A regional multicenter registry was queried between 2003 and 2013 for HD patients (N = 689) undergoing open surgical bypass (n = 295) or endovascular intervention (n = 394) for lower extremity revascularization. Patient demographics and comorbidities were recorded. The primary outcome was overall survival. Secondary outcomes included graft patency, freedom from major adverse limb events, and amputation-free survival (AFS). Multivariate analysis was performed to identify independent risk factors for death and amputation. Results Among the 689 HD patients undergoing lower extremity revascularization, 66% were male, and 83% were white. Ninety percent of revascularizations were performed for critical limb ischemia and 8% for claudication. Overall survival at 1, 2, and 5 years survival remained low at 60%, 43%, and 21%, respectively. Overall 1- and 2-year AFS was 40% and 17%. Mortality accounted for the primary mode of failure for both open bypass (78%) and endovascular interventions (80%) at two years. Survival, AFS, and freedom from major adverse limb event outcomes did not differ significantly between revascularization techniques. At 2 years, endovascular patency was higher than open bypass (76% vs 26%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.28-0.71; P = .02). Multivariate analysis identified age ≥80 years (hazard ratio [HR], 1.9; 95% CI, 1.4-2.5; P P P P P = .01) as independent predictors of death. The presence of three or more risk factors resulted in predicted 1-year mortality of 64%. Conclusions Overall survival and AFS among HD patients remains poor, irrespective of revascularization strategy. Mortality remains the primary driver for these findings and justifies a prudent approach to patient selection. Focus for improved results should emphasize predictors of survival to better identify those most likely to benefit from revascularization.
Epithelial Cells in Fetal Intestine Produce Chemerin to Recruit Macrophages

Macrophages are first seen in the fetal intestine at 11–12 wk and rapidly increase in number during the 12- to 22-wk period of gestation. The development of macrophage populations in the fetal intestine precedes the appearance of lymphocytes and neutrophils and does not require the presence of dietary or microbial antigens. In this study, we investigated the role of chemerin, a recently discovered, relatively selective chemoattractant for macrophages, in the recruitment of macrophage precursors to the fetal intestine. Chemerin mRNA/protein expression was measured in jejunoileal tissue from 10- to 24-wk human fetuses, neonates operated for intestinal obstruction, and adults undergoing bariatric surgery. The expression of chemerin in intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) was confirmed by using cultured primary IECs and IEC-like cell lines in vitro. The regulatory mechanisms involved in chemerin expression were investigated by in silico and immunolocalization techniques. IECs in the fetal, but not mature, intestine express chemerin. Chemerin expression peaked in the fetal intestine at 20–24 wk and then decreased to original low levels by full term. During the 10- to 24-wk period, chemerin accounted for most of the macrophage chemotactic activity of cultured fetal IECs. The maturational changes in chemerin expression correlated with the expression of retinoic acid receptor-β in the intestine. Chemerin is an important mediator of epithelial-macrophage cross talk in the fetal/premature, but not in the mature, intestine. Understanding the regulation of the gut macrophage pool is an important step in development of novel strategies to boost mucosal immunity in premature infants and other patient populations at risk of microbial translocation.
Contact‐impact by the pinball algorithm with penalty and Lagrangian methods

Contact-impact algorithms, which are sometimes called slideline algorithms, are a computationally time-consuming part of many explicit simulations of non-linear problems because they involve many branches, so they are not amenable to vectorization, which is essential for speed on supercomputers. The pinball algorithm is a simplified slideline algorithm which is readily vectorized. Its major idea is to embed pinballs in surface elements and to enforce the impenetrability condition only to pinballs. It can be implemented in either a Lagrange multiplier or penalty method. It is shown that, in any Lagrange multiplier method, no iterations are needed to define the contact surface. Examples of solutions and running times are given.
The RF-chain limited mimo system- part I: optimum diversity-multiplexing tradeoff

The large gain promised by the multi-input multi-output (MIMO) technology comes with a cost. In particular, multiple analog radio frequency (RF) chains, which are expensive and power consuming, are required at both the transmitter and receiver sides. On the other hand, the antennas connecting to the RF chains are less expensive. Hence, one engineering compromise is to implement more antennas than RF chains and to use only a subset of them based on some antenna selection (AS) algorithm. An interesting question therefore arises: given a RF chain limited MIMO system, what is the fundamental performance gain by adding more antennas? In this two-part paper, we answer this question by using the diversity-multiplexing (D-M) gain tradeoff metric. Consider a Rayleigh fading channel with Mt) antennas and Lt (Lt les Mt) RF chains at the transmitter while Mr antennas and Lr (Lr les Mr) RF chains at the receiver. We obtain the fundamental D-M tradeoff as a function of Mt, Mr, and min(Lr, Lt). Referring to the special case where Lt = Mt) and Lr = Mr as the RF unlimited system (or full system) and RF limited system (or pruned system) otherwise, we prove that the pruned system with optimal channel-dependent AS has the same D-M tradeoff as the full system if the multiplexing gain is less than some integer threshold P, while it suffers from some diversity gain loss for multiplexing gains larger than P. In particular, if min(Lr, Lt) = K = min(Mr, Mt), then P = K, i.e. the D-M tradeoffs of the pruned system and the full system are the same. Moreover, this result can be extended to more general fading channels such as Nakagami channel. A fast and D-M tradeoff-optimal AS algorithm is proposed as a byproduct of our analysis.
On the time to traverse all edges of a graph

Abstract The expected time for a random walk on an undirected graph G = ( V , E ) to visit all the vertices is O(| V | | E |), and is O(| V | 2 ) for regular graphs. Here we show that both bounds hold even if we are required to traverse all the edges, although our bound for regular graphs requires that the degree be | V | δ for some δ
Multi-Tiered Systems of Support Within Secure Residential Juvenile Facilities

With approximately 60,000 youth in secure residential juvenile facilities in the United States on any given day (U.S. Department of Education, 2014), it is paramount that their diverse and complex ...
Effect of N'-Dodecanoylsulfanilamide and of Sulfapyridine on Experimental Tuberculosis in Rabbits.

ConclusionsN'-Dodecanoylsulfanilamide and sulfapyridine administered in large doses failed to exert any demonstrable inhibitory effect on experimental tuberculosis in rabbits infected with a bovine strain of tubercle bacilli.
Intuitive Visual Impressions (Cogs) for Identifying Clusters of Diversity within Potato Species

One of the basic research activities of genebanks is to partition stocks into groups that facilitate the efficient preservation and evaluation of the full range of useful phenotype diversity. We sought to test the usefulness of making intraspecific groups by replicated rapid visual intuitive impressions of coded plants by multiple uncoached observers. We invented the term “cog” (shorthand for cognate = “born together”) to indicate assumed genetic relatedness of cog members. All of the 16 populations of the wild potato species Solanum okadae in the genebank were thus examined in four separate grow-outs by up to seven genebank staff members, a total of 26 times. They were instructed to place them into two cogs defined only as big and not-big. Four populations were placed in the big cog for 70–90 % of observations, while all remaining populations but one were placed in the big cog for less than 5 % of observations. All populations were then assessed for DNA markers and various empirical traits. AFLP and SNP markers clearly distinguished the two cogs. The big cog populations were also distinguished from the others by virtue of having less foliar late blight resistance, more leaf hairiness, and lower tuber tomatine content. SNP similarity suggests one population of reputed Bolivian origin is really a mislabeled duplicate of another from Argentina. If so, the two cogs also perfectly align with country of natural origin, with big originating exclusively from Bolivia. Using S. okadae as a model, we demonstrated that rapid, simple, and inexpensive visual intuitive cogs reliably predict significant genetic and phenotypic differences. We propose testing the cog technique on other species and applying it as a new potato germplasm descriptor.
La_2O_3 do matrix modifier AAS determination of drinking water Fe

Objective:To establish flame atomic absorption method for direct determination of Fe content in drinking water.Methods: La2O3 was added into water samples to optimize the instrument condition.Then Fe content was directly determined by flame atomic absorption meter.Results: The linear range of the method was 0.00 mg/L~2.00 mg/L with correlation coefficient of 0.99962.The recovery was 96%~105%,RSD(%) was 0.47%~1.85%,the detection limit was 0.026 mg/L.Conclusion: This method had the advantages of simple operation,low detection limit,good precision and reliable accuracy.
Molecular and cellular aspects of diabetes mellitus: applications to diabetic nephropathy.

D IABETES MELLITUS is the leading cause of end-stage renal disease in the United States. * Although the molecular and cellular basis of diabetic nephropathy is only beginning to be elucidated, such an understanding holds great promise for the future treatment and prevention of this deadly diabetic complication. Because molecular biological approaches to diabetic nephropathy are still in their infancy, this article initially focuses on the recent successes in unraveling the genetic basis of Type I or insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) and of Type II or noninsulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM). We then examine some emerging concepts concerning the basic molecular and cellular defects in both IDDM and NIDDM. This exposition in turn is used to show how similar molecular biological approaches can lead to a new understanding of the etiology, pathogenesis, and treatment of diabetic nephropathy.
Chronic peripheral nerve compression disrupts paranodal axoglial junctions.

Introduction Peripheral nerves are often exposed to mechanical stress leading to compression neuropathies. The pathophysiology underlying nerve dysfunction by chronic compression is largely unknown. Methods We analyzed molecular organization and fine structures at and near nodes of Ranvier in a compression neuropathy model in which a silastic tube was placed around the mouse sciatic nerve. Results Immunofluorescence study showed that clusters of cell adhesion complex forming paranodal axoglial junctions were dispersed and overlapped frequently with juxtaparanodal components. These paranodal changes occurred without internodal myelin damage. The distribution and pattern of paranodal disruption suggests that these changes are the direct result of mechanical stress. Electron microscopy confirmed loss of paranodal axoglial junctions. Conclusions Our data show that chronic nerve compression disrupts paranodal junctions and axonal domains required for proper peripheral nerve function. These results provide important clues toward better understanding of the pathophysiology underlying nerve dysfunction in compression neuropathies. Muscle Nerve 55: 544–554, 2017
Role of Soft-Tissue Heterogeneity in Computational Models of Deep Brain Stimulation

Abstract Background Bioelectric field models of deep brain stimulation (DBS) are commonly utilized in research and industrial applications. However, the wide range of different representations used for the human head in these models may be responsible for substantial variance in the stimulation predictions. Objective Determine the relative error of ignoring cerebral vasculature and soft-tissue heterogeneity outside of the brain in computational models of DBS. Methods We used a detailed atlas of the human head, coupled to magnetic resonance imaging data, to construct a range of subthalamic DBS volume conductor models. We incrementally simplified the most detailed base model and quantified changes in the stimulation thresholds for direct activation of corticofugal axons. Results Ignoring cerebral vasculature altered predictions of stimulation thresholds by Conclusions Heterogeneity in the soft tissues of the head, if unaccounted for, introduces a degree of uncertainty in predicting electrical stimulation of neural elements that is not negligible and thereby warrants consideration in future modeling studies.
Antenatal fetal surveillance “Assessment of the AFV”

The evaluation of amniotic fluid volume (AFV) is an established part of the antenatal surveillance of pregnancies at risk for an adverse pregnancy outcome. The two most commonly used ultrasound techniques to estimate AFV are the amniotic fluid index (AFI) and the single deepest pocket (SDP). Four studies have defined normal AFVs, and although their normal volumes have similarities, there are also differences primarily due to the statistical methodology used in each study. Dye-determined AFV correlates with ultrasound estimates for normal fluid volumes but correlates poorly for oligohydramnios and polyhydramnios. The addition of color Doppler in estimating AFV leads to the overdiagnosis of oligohydramnios. Neither the AFI nor the SDP is superior in identifying oligohydramnios, but the SDP is a better measurement choice as the use of AFI increases the diagnosis rate of oligohydramnios and labor inductions without an improvement in pregnancy outcomes.
Inventory-based forest health indicators: implications for National Forest Management.

Several forest health indicators that are derived from inventory data can be used to compare changes in stand conditions over a 50-year period and across ownerships and regions. National forests, most of which are in the West, are denser and have higher mortality than other forests. A continuation of today's high growth-to-removals ratio on national foresttimberlands portends increased density and mortality, putting various ecological, environmental, economic, and social values at greater risk of severe wildfire than they are today. National forest managers could improve stand conditions by increasing removals, but public policies tend to inhibit active management of national forests.
VTA dopamine neuron plasticity - the unusual suspects.

Dopamine neurons in the ventral tegmental area are involved in a variety of physiological and pathological conditions, ranging from motivated behaviors to substance use disorders. While many studies have shown that these neurons can express plasticity at excitatory and inhibitory synapses, little is known about how inhibitory inputs and glial activity shape the output of DA neurons and therefore, merit greater discussion. In this review, we will attempt to fill in a bit more of the puzzle, with a focus on inhibitory transmission and astrocyte function. We summarize thefindings within the VTA as well as observations made in other brain regions that have important implications for plasticity in general and should be considered in the context of DA neuron plasticity. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Top 50 most-cited articles on craniovertebral junction surgery.

Background: Craniovertebral junction is a complex anatomical location posing unique challenges to the surgical management of its pathologies. We aimed to identify the fifty most-cited articles that are dedicated to this field. Methods: A keyword search using the Thomson Reuters Web of Knowledge was conducted to identify articles relevant to the field of craniovertebral junction surgery. The articles were reviewed based on title, abstract, and methods, if necessary, and then ranked based on the total number of citations to identify the fifty most-cited articles. Characteristics of the articles were determined and analyzed. Results: The earliest top-cited article was published in 1948. When stratified by decade, 1990s was the most productive with 16 articles. The most-cited article was by Anderson and Dalonzo on a classification of odontoid fractures. By citation rate, the most-cited article was by Herms and Melcher who described Goel's technique of atlantoaxial fixation using C1 lateral mass screws and C2 pedicle screws with rod fixation. Atlantoaxial fixation was the most common topic. The United States, Barrow Neurological Institute, and VH Sonntag were the most represented country, institute, and author, respectively. The significant majority of articles were designed as case series providing level IV evidence. Conclusion: Using citation analysis, we have provided a list of the most-cited articles representing important contributions of various authors from many institutions across the world to the field of craniovertebral junction surgery.
When the Internet Goes Down in Bangladesh

We present a study of internet use and its forced non-use in Bangladesh. In light of current initiatives by state and industry actors to improve internet access and bridge the 'digital divide' for under-served, under-resourced, and underrepresented communities across the world, we offer a situated, qualitative perspective on what the current state of internet use looks like for select social groups in Bangladesh. We analyze how a state-imposed ban attempted to affect the nonuse of particular web-based services and how the affected populations found or did not find workarounds in response. We also discuss takeaways for researchers as well as industry and state actors studying and working towards more equitable access to the internet in the 'developing' world.
The hot carrier diffusion coefficient of sub-10 nm virgin MoS2: uncovered by non-contact optical probing

We report a novel approach for non-contact simultaneous determination of the hot carrier diffusion coefficient (D) and interface thermal resistance (R) of sub-10 nm virgin mechanically exfoliated MoS2 nanosheets on c-Si. The effect of hot carrier diffusion in heat conduction by photon excitation, diffusion, and recombination is identified by varying the heating spot size from 0.294 μm to 1.14 μm (radius) and probing the local temperature rise using Raman spectroscopy. R is determined as 4.46–7.66 × 10−8 K m2 W−1, indicating excellent contact between MoS2 and c-Si. D is determined to be 1.18+0.30−0.23, 1.07+0.37−0.26, 1.20+0.34−0.27 and 1.62+0.30−0.23 cm2 s−1 for 3.6 nm, 5.4 nm, 8.4 nm, and 9.0 nm thick MoS2 samples, showing little dependence on the thickness. The hot carrier diffusion length (LD) can be determined without knowledge of the hot carrier's life-time. The four samples LD is determined as 0.344+0.041−0.036 (3.6 nm), 0.327+0.052−0.043 (5.4 nm), 0.346+0.046−0.042 (8.4 nm), and 0.402+0.036−0.030 μm (9.0 nm). Unlike previous methods that are implemented by making electrical contact and applying an electric field for D measurement, our technique has the advantage of being truly non-contact and non-invasive, and is able to characterize the electron diffusion behavior of virgin 2D materials. Also it points out that hot carrier diffusion needs to be taken into serious consideration in Raman-based thermal property characterization of 2D materials, especially under very tightly focused laser heating whose spot size is comparable to the hot carrier diffusion length.
Nationwide conversion to generic tacrolimus in pediatric kidney transplant recipients.

Bioequivalence between Tacrolimus Prograf® and generic tacrolimus formulations has been demonstrated in adult populations, however clinical experience and safety data regarding generic tacrolimus in pediatric transplant recipients is limited. This study aimed to evaluate conversion from Tacrolimus Prograf® to Sandoz® in pediatric renal transplant recipients nationwide. The primary outcome was a change in mean trough tacrolimus concentration. Additionally, changes in tacrolimus intra-patient coefficient of variation (CoV), allograft function, requirement for dose adjustments, and episodes of biopsy-proven rejection were evaluated. Retrospective cohort study in 37 pediatric renal transplant recipients who switched to Tacrolimus Sandoz®. Each patient had three pre-conversion tacrolimus trough and creatinine concentrations within the 4 months prior and three post-conversion concentrations on day 3, 10, and the next subsequent level. Mean pre- and post-conversion tacrolimus trough concentrations and glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) were calculated. Tacrolimus concentration, CoV, and creatinine differences were compared by paired t test. Thirty-seven patients (41% females, age 3–18 years) were included. Average intra-patient difference in trough tacrolimus concentration was 0.05μg/l (95% CI –0.37 to 0.47). Average intra-patient difference in eGFR was −1.20 ml/min/1.732 (95% CI –3.53 to 1.13). Three patients had acute rejection during 12 months post-conversion compared to none during 12 months pre-conversion. Pediatric renal transplant recipients can be converted from Tacrolimus Prograf® to Sandoz® with negligible change in trough concentration, dose adjustments, or immediate allograft function. Of concern was the number of acute rejection episodes, however non-adherence contributed to at least one episode and this difference was determined clinically and statistically not significant.
Covalency and hyperfine structure constant A of iron group impurities in crystals

Abstract The covalent reduction of the hyperfine splitting A of Mn2+ and other transition metal impurities in crystals is interpreted as resulting from the exchange polarization of the bonding orbitals containing 4s-admixture of the impurity. The calculated unpaired spin density responsible for the reduction of A is composed of two contributions. The first one results from the ligand → 4s transfer of the up-spin electron overcompensating the transfer of the down-spin electron. The second contribution is due to the difference between the 4s-radial wave function of up- and down-spin electrons. The latter effect is shown to be a dominating one on both the theoretical and experimental grounds. The theory is applied to discuss the relationship of A vs. covaleney for 3d transition metal ions in various hosts. It is concluded that in covalent crystals the 4s-bonding of the impurity dominates over the 3d-bonding.
A multiscale analytical model of bronchial airway acoustics.

Sound transmission and resulting airway wall vibration in a complex multiscale viscoelastic model of the subglottal bronchial tree was calculated using a modified one-dimensional (1D) branching acoustic waveguide approach. This is an extension of previous work to enable use of complex airway trees that are partially derived from subject-specific medical images, without the need for self-similarity in the geometric structure. The approach was validated numerically for simplified airway geometries, as well as experimentally by comparison to previous studies. A comprehensive conducting airway tree with about 60 000 branches was then modified to create fibrotic, bronchoconstrictive, and pulmonary infiltrate conditions. The fibrotic case—systemic increase in soft tissue stiffness—increased the Helmholtz resonance frequency due to the increased acoustic impedance. Bronchoconstriction, with geometric changes in small conducting airways, decreased acoustic energy transmission to the peripheral airways due in part...
Curve Shortening and Interacting Particle Systems

Curvature driven flows have been extensively considered from a deterministic point of view. Besides their mathematical interest, they have been shown to be useful for a number of applications including crystal growth, flame propagation, and computer vision. In this paper, we describe a new stochastic approximation of curve shortening flows valid for arbitrary embedded planar curves.
Evaluating Machine Learning–Based Automated Personalized Daily Step Goals Delivered Through a Mobile Phone App: Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Growing evidence shows that fixed, nonpersonalized daily step goals can discourage individuals, resulting in unchanged or even reduced physical activity. Objective: The aim of this randomized controlled trial (RCT) was to evaluate the efficacy of an automated mobile phone–based personalized and adaptive goal-setting intervention using machine learning as compared with an active control with steady daily step goals of 10,000. Methods: In this 10-week RCT, 64 participants were recruited via email announcements and were required to attend an initial in-person session. The participants were randomized into either the intervention or active control group with a one-to-one ratio after a run-in period for data collection. A study-developed mobile phone app (which delivers daily step goals using push notifications and allows real-time physical activity monitoring) was installed on each participant’s mobile phone, and participants were asked to keep their phone in a pocket throughout the entire day. Through the app, the intervention group received fully automated adaptively personalized daily step goals, and the control group received constant step goals of 10,000 steps per day. Daily step count was objectively measured by the study-developed mobile phone app. Results: The mean (SD) age of participants was 41.1 (11.3) years, and 83% (53/64) of participants were female. The baseline demographics between the 2 groups were similar (P>.05). Participants in the intervention group (n=34) had a decrease in mean (SD) daily step count of 390 (490) steps between run-in and 10 weeks, compared with a decrease of 1350 (420) steps among control participants (n=30; P=.03). The net difference in daily steps between the groups was 960 steps (95% CI 90-1830 steps). Both groups had a decrease in daily step count between run-in and 10 weeks because interventions were also provided during run-in and no natural baseline was collected. Conclusions: The results showed the short-term efficacy of this intervention, which should be formally evaluated in a full-scale RCT with a longer follow-up period. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02886871; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02886871 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6wM1Be1Ng). [JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2018;6(1):e28]
SOME EXAMPLES CONCERNING α-BOUNDED SPACES

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses some examples concerning α-bounded spaces. The properties strong α-compactness and α-boundedness, which are defined for every infinite cardinal number a, are useful in deciding whether product spaces have certain compactness-like properties. A space X is called α-bounded if every subset of X having cardinality less than or equal to α is contained in a compact subset of X. A space X is called strongly α-compact if every filter base on X having cardinality less than or equal to α traces on a compact set. An ultrafilter p on α is called α-complete provided that the intersection of fewer than α members of p is a member of p. A cardinal α is called measurable if there exists an α-complete, free ultrafilter on α.
Stability Exponent and Eigenvalue Abscissas by Way of the Imaginary Axis Eigenvalues

In this chapler we present a technique for accurate computation of the stability exponent and other eigenvalue abscissas of a matrix delay equation. Previously the author introduced a finite dimensional linear operator, determined by the delay equation coefficients, having spectrum containing all possible imaginary axis eigenvalues of the delay system. Using the eigenvalues of this operator, and introducing a transmision in the equation’s characteristic function, we can make an accurate numerical determination of the system stability or growth exponent and other eigenvalue abscissas. Arter giving the basic theorems for the method, we give an example in which we go over essentials of implementation. Then we explore the method in some special cases, beginning with second order scalar delay equations and an interesting example of positive delay feedback. We proceed to a rather detailed examination of the effect of the delay parameter in some simple first order delay equations, finding that accurate computation of the system abscissa leads us to some interesting and unconventional conclusions on its behavior with respect to this parameter. We then give an example in which the method is adapted to a cenain distributed delay equation. We conclude with some comments on possible future research.
Generation of Coherent Light in the Vacuum Ultra-Violet

Remarkable progress has been made in the past few years in the development of sources of coherent light in the vacuum ultraviolet spectral region. This review will discuss recent experimental work and relevant basic physical principles of both vacuum ultra-violet lasers and harmonic generation into the vacuum ultraviolet, utilizing visible wavelength lasers. In exciting electronic transitions which would be made to lase in the vacuum ultra-violet, two problems immediately arise. The first is the severe frequency dependence of the pumping power required to attain significant inversion densities, and hence optical gain at these short wavelengths. For example, with a Doppler broadened line, simple considerations based on the Schawlow-Townes equations show that the pump power necessary to achieve some arbitrary gain scales as ν4. The second difficulty has been more of an operational problem, that of finding a pumping source capable of efficiently exciting electronic levels above 7 eV.
Supporting the Design of AAL through a SW Integration Framework: The D4All Project

Contemporary design is characterized by the paradigm shift from a one-size-fits-all, oriented to the standard man, to an holistic and inclusive one-size-fits-one, that takes into account the full range of human diversity. Following the new paradigm, the “Design for All” Italian research project aims at realizing an effective demonstrator of a framework that promotes a design of an AAL oriented to the real individual, considering everybody in his peculiarities. On the one hand, the framework handles the knowledge about the home environment, also through innovative approaches aimed at modeling specific scenarios representing the relevant states of the individuals (situation and context awareness). On the other hand, it allows various software tools supporting the entire home’s life cycle to exchange the knowledge in a smart manner. Mainly focused on interoperability aspects, the paper describes the motivations behind the “Design for All” project concepts, together with the goals and the first findings. Finally, it presents a demonstration scenario that aims at testing and validating the framework.
A Multi-scale Convolutional Neural Network for Autonomous Anomaly Detection and Classification in a Laser Powder Bed Fusion Additive Manufacturing Process

Abstract In-situ detection of processing defects is a critical challenge for Laser Powder Bed Fusion Additive Manufacturing. Many of these defects are related to interactions between the recoater blade, which spreads the powder, and the powder bed. This work leverages Deep Learning, specifically a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), for autonomous detection and classification of many of these spreading anomalies. Importantly, the input layer of the CNN is modified to enable the algorithm to learn both the appearance of the powder bed anomalies as well as key contextual information at multiple size scales. These modifications to the CNN architecture are shown to improve the flexibility and overall classification accuracy of the algorithm while mitigating many human biases. A case study is used to demonstrate the utility of the presented methodology and the overall performance is shown to be superior to that of methodologies previously reported by the authors.
Holographic Microbubble Actuators for Microfluidic Manipulation and Particle Assembly

We report holographic microbubble actuators for micro fluidic manipulation and particle assembly. Taking advantage of the high photothermal conversion efficiency of nanoporous gold disk arrays, we characterize the microbubble size vs. laser power and show that this platform is highly efficient. By forming multiple microbubble at arbitrary locations using holography, sophisticated microfluidic functions such as valving has been achieved. The microbubble also enables high-efficiency assembly of micro/nanoparticles.
Proceedings of the Industrial Track of the 16th International Middleware Conference

It is our great pleasure to welcome you to the Industry Track of the 2015 ACM/IFIP/USENIX MIDDLEWARE conference. This is a special forum within the main conference emphasizing the practical issues, observations, and measurement of "real-world" middleware systems.
Minimally Invasive Exchange of the HeartMate 2 (HM2) Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) to HeartWare Ventricular Assist Device (HVAD) or HeartMate 3 (HM3)

Purpose Exchange of the HM2 LVAD may be necessary for pump thrombosis, malfunction, or infection. We describe a novel minimally invasive technique for exchange of HM2 to the new generation intrapericardial pumps, HVAD or HM3, and present our clinical experience with this technique. Methods Retrospective data of patients who underwent exchange of HM2 to HVAD or HM3 since June 2014 were reviewed. Patient characteristics, operative outcomes, and post-operative complications were compiled. Kaplan-Meier methodology was used to analyze survival following pump exchange. Results The study included 13 patients. The average age was 60 years. Indications for exchange were recurrent thrombosis in a second HM2 (12) and infection (1). All cases were done on cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) with femoral cannulation. Surgical approach was via a left subcostal incision and left anterior thoracotomy in all cases and additional sternotomy in one case. Outflow graft-to-graft anastomosis was done in the subcostal incision. The new device was inserted in the previous apical ventriculotomy after removal of the HM2 inflow cannula. Mean duration of support on the second HM2 pump was 656 days. The mean CPB and surgical times were 112 and 291 minutes, respectively. Mean ICU and hospital lengths of stay were 7 and 16 days, respectively. 30-day post-op survival was 92% with 1 death on day 24 from sepsis. There was 1 re-operation for post-op bleed, 2 wound infections, and 2 cases of right ventricular insufficiency. No neurological events or recurrent pump thrombosis were reported. Mean survival at 1, 2, and 3 years was 69%, 40%, and 40%, respectively. Conclusion Exchange of the HM2 to new generation intrapericardial pumps may be indicated in cases of recurrent pump thrombosis, inflow cannula malposition, or device infection. This can be accomplished by a minimally invasive approach with a low surgical mortality and excellent long-term outcomes.