cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Optimization of Postremission Therapy in Follicular Lymphoma: Efficacy of Rituximab Maintenance

Rituximab has been proven to be an important part of the treatment of newly diagnosed and relapsed or refractory follicular lymphoma both alone and in combination with chemotherapy. Given its tolerability, rituximab has now been investigated in the maintenance setting in an effort to further improve progression-free and overall survival in patients with follicular lymphoma. (JNCCN 2011;9:563-571)
Calculating Returns to Degree Using Student Longitudinal Data Systems

Human capital theory shows educated workers are more productive in the workforce and subsequently earn more. Hundreds of studies have shown this by estimating the rate of return to education. However, these studies use national surveys and are limited to nationwide estimates. The emergence of Student Longitudinal Data System (SLDS) has permitted states and institutions to track students throughout education and even into the workforce. While several studies use SLDS data to calculate average wages of college alumni, none have calculated the rate of return. This paper develops a framework to calculate the net present value and rate of return for higher education using SLDS data. We apply the framework to estimate the economic value of completing a degree at an Iowa community college. We estimate the returns for all community colleges, by award type, and individual programs. Our results show returns are six percent for those completing a community college degree.
Geometrical and spectral properties of Pisot substitutions

Abstract A necessary condition for an n -dimensional substitutive dynamical system to be a finite extension of an algebraic system is that the substitution be Pisot. We discuss the sufficiency of the Pisot property and review conditions under which such an extension is guaranteed to be almost everywhere one-to-one.
Illustrations of Fungi—XIII

The accompanying plate illustrates several species of boletes collected either near Bronx Park, New York City, or in the vicinity of Stockbridge, Massachusetts. These are fleshy fungi with tubes instead of gills, usually occurring on the ground in woods during late summer and autumn. They are difficult to distinguish, even in the fresh state, and when the large amount of water they contain is eliminated the dried specimens bear little resemblance to the originals. Many of the best edible fungi in temperate regions belong to this group, and the dangers of being poisoned are relatively small. Species with bitter or otherwise objectionable taste should be avoided, and especially all plants having red or reddish tubemouths. The sensitive bolete, which promptly turns blue when touched or broken, has also caused mild poisoning in some cases. Many species have not been thoroughly tested, however; hence it is wise to eat sparingly of all such plants until well known. For a complete treatment of the Boletaceae known to occur in this country, the student is referred to NORTH AMERICAN FLORA, volume 9, part 3, where the species are fully described and arranged under eleven genera with specific keys.
Electrocatalytic H2 evolution by proton-gated hangman iron porphyrins

The ability to control proton translocation is essential for optimizing electrocatalytic reductions in acidic solutions. We have synthesized a series of new hangman iron porphyrins with hanging groups of differing proton-donating abilities and evaluated their electrocatalytic hydrogen-evolving ability using foot-of-the-wave analysis. In the presence of excess triphenylphosphine, iron porphyrins initiate proton reduction electrocatalysis upon reduction to FeI. By changing the proton-donating ability of the hanging group, we can affect the rate of catalysis by nearly 3 orders of magnitude. The presence of an acid/base moiety in the second coordination sphere results in a marked increase in turnover frequency when extrapolated to zero overpotential.
Microwave-assisted aqueous synthesis of highly luminescent carboxymethyl chitosancoated CdTe/CdS quantum dots as fluorescent probe for live cell imaging

Objective To develope a simplified and rapid method for the synthesis of CMC-CdTe quantum dots(QDs) by microwave irradiation and using modified QDs for imaging live cells.Methods Several synthesis parameters,such as molar ratio of reagents,pH,reaction temperature,and reaction time were studied in details.Under the optimized conditions,highly effective CdTe QDs could be synthesized in aqueous phase.In order to improve the biocompatibility of the CdTe QDs,these QDs were then interacted with carboxymethyl chitosan(CMC) so as to be used as fluorescent probes for imaging live Madin-Darby canine kidney(MDCK)cells.Results With the incorporation of CMC,the stability of modified QDs was found to be improved significantly(from 4 months to more than 10 months at room temperature).The photoluminescence quantum yield(PLQY) of the modified QDs could reach 75%,other specs include a full width at half maximum of the emission(FWHM) spectrum as 42 nm,and an average size,estimated from electron microscope graphing,as 3.5 nm.As fluorescent probes,these modified QDs were successfully used for imaging live MDCK cells.Conclusions The results indicated that these modified QDs demonstrated good biocompatibility and showed promising applications for bio-labeling and imaging.
Being witness to a miracle and happy ending: finally meeting Joshua.

The author relates her experiences with the Hamilton family over more than 20 years. The author provided Mrs Hamilton's nursing care during most of her labor and attended the birth of her baby boy who suffered a serious nuchal cord injury. Despite a grim prognosis, to the amazement of everyone, Baby Joshua's condition progressively improved and within about a week and a half he was discharged to go home. Twenty years later she published her experience of his birth. Several years later she received an invitation to the wedding of a former student to Joshua's brother. (non-author abstract)
Fetal Bladder Histology in Posterior Urethral Valves and the Prune Belly Syndrome

AbstractBladder histology was reviewed in fetuses with posterior urethral valves and the prune belly syndrome, and compared with that of controls. Fetuses with posterior urethral valves had increased muscle thickness (1.7 ± 0.3 versus 0.9 ± 0.2mm.) and a slightly increased ratio of connective tissue (38 ± 6 versus 31 ± 7%). Those with the prune belly syndrome fell into 2 groups: 1 had anatomical evidence of obstruction, increased muscle thickness and a normal ratio of connective tissue (2.2 ± 6mm. and 28 ± 9%), while 1 had no evidence of obstruction and thin bladders with increased connective tissue (0.8 ± 0.4mm. and 45 ± 12%). These results suggest that the phenotypic appearance of the prune belly syndrome may result from either a mesenchymal defect or urinary tract obstruction.
The Kurds and Kurdistan

In this chapter, I shall try to define which peoples are described as, and describe themselves as, Kurds, and the way in which they relate to the Kurds from other currently recognized nation-states. Kurdish cultural features, economic activities, and political history will, briefly, be discussed. Iranian Kurdistan will be discussed in more detail.
In Situ Analysis of Thin Film Nucleation and Growth using Variable Angle X-Ray Fluorescence

Control over thin film composition during synthesis and processing is required for multielement materials such as high temperature superconductors. Compositional analysis during growth however is quite difficult. To address this need, a novel system for real time in situ analysis of thin film deposition and processing has been constructed utilizing x-ray fluorescence. The deposition and analysis system consists of four DC magnetron sputtering sources for individual control over depositing species, and a 1.5 KW Cr x-ray tube for illuminating the sample during growth and processing. An energy dispersive detector is then used to detect the fluorescence x-rays from the sample. The analysis geometry may be changed to vary the surface selectivity from a few nanometers to microns. The low surface selectivity which is due to refraction of the fluorescence x-rays is comparable to Auger electron spectroscopy without the need for high vacuum conditions. The variable depth of analysis is demonstrated for the in situ deposition of Bi-Sr-Ca-Cu-O thin films. The loss of Bi at elevated substrate temperatures was observed.
Epidemiological research on parent-child conflict in the United States: subgroup variations by place of birth and ethnicity, 2002-2013.

BACKGROUND Chronically escalated parent-child conflict has been observed to elicit maladaptive behavior and reduced psychological well-being in children and youth. In this epidemiological study, we sought to estimate the occurrence of escalated parent-child conflict for United States (US) adolescent subgroups defined by (a) ethnic self-identification, and (b) nativity (US-born versus foreign-born). METHODS US study populations of 12-to-17-year-olds were sampled, recruited, and assessed for the National Surveys on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), 2002-2013 (n = 111, 129). Analysis-weighted contingency table analyses contrasted US-born versus foreign-born who self-identified as: (a) Hispanic, (b) non-Hispanic African-American, (c) non-Hispanic Asian, and (c) non-Hispanic White. RESULTS Frequently escalated parent-child conflict was most prevalent among US-born non-Hispanic White adolescents, from 18% at age 12 (95% CI [17.6%, 18.9%]) to 29% at age 17 (95% CI [28.3%, 29.7%]), followed by US-born Hispanic and non-Hispanic Asian children. Estimated prevalence proportions were markedly lower for African-American children, from 8% at age 12 (95% CI [6.8, 8.5]) to 16% at age 17 (95% CI [14.3, 16.7]). Broad and sometimes overlapping CI indicate that larger sample sizes are needed for complete evaluation of an apparent excess occurrence of frequent parent-child conflict among US-born versus foreign-born. Nonetheless, in the larger subgroups, the US-born show a clear excess occurrence of frequent parent-child conflict. For example, US-born Mexican children have 1.7 times higher odds of experiencing frequent parent-child conflict than foreign-born Mexican children (OR = 1.7, 95% CI [1.5, 2.0], p-value < 0.001). DISCUSSION The main discovery from this multi-ethnic sample investigation is a rank-ordering of parent-child conflict prevalence estimates from high (non-Hispanic White) to low (non-Hispanic African-American). The pattern also suggests a possibly generalizable excess associated with US-born sub-groups. The epidemiological estimates presented here merit attention in future cross-cultural research focused on parent-child conflict.
Exploring Caring Economies and Alleviating Suffering

A caring economy is one that supports policies and rules based on the value of caring for ourselves, others, and nature. The ideas around caring for ourselves and our environment, and caregiving to others, are instrumental to the underlying ethos of caring economics. Market-based economics tend not to explicitly address issues around compassion, caring, empathy, or well-being. Instead, its focus is on self-interest, which presumably is necessary for rational decision-making by maximizing an individual’s utility. Or is it? Some challenge this assumption and describe ways that compassion and empathy can be taught, can be integrated into structures of business, organizations, and communities, and essentially push toward more caring economies. Suffering is often directly tied to economic well-being so the implications are significant for many. This chapter explores ideas about caring economies and approaches that may help alleviate suffering.
Sensitivity evaluation of quantitative phase imaging: a study of wavelength shifting interferometry.

Sensitivity is a critical figure of merit to quantify measurement performance in quantitative phase imaging. It is affected by various noise sources in the system and by signal processing algorithms. Here we propose a three-level framework for sensitivity evaluation, including the Cramer-Rao bound (CRB), algorithmic sensitivity, and experimental sensitivity. Comparing the first two determines the theoretical efficiency of an algorithm, while inspecting the gap between the latter two reveals system efficiency. As an example, we apply this framework to wavelength shifting interferometry, an important category of quantitative phase imaging techniques. In a shot-noise-limited regime, the CRB is derived, and the performance of a four-step Carre algorithm is studied in simulations and experiments. Importantly, the proposed procedure allows the algorithmic sensitivity to be conveniently estimated from a single set of measurement data, which serves as a basis for system efficiency evaluation.
The Male Transobturator Sling for Stress Incontinence After the Treatment of Prostate Cancer

The purpose of this review is to describe the use of male transobturator slings for the treatment of post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence. We aim to cover available slings on the market and give some background history of transobturator sling development. Although there has been a paucity of new transobturator slings released on the market over the last 5 years, there has emerged new data on product variations of the transobturator sling, including the Argus T adjustable sling, the Virtue Quadratic sling, the ATOMS sling, and the AdVance XP sling. Evidence that radiotherapy worsens outcomes, urodynamic studies may play some role in patient selection with Valsalva leak point pressure (VLPP) <100 cm H20 showing improved success, and salvage of sling failures are more optimal with artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) as compared to repeat sling placement, highlights the recent technical findings for the use of transobturator male urethral slings for the treatment of post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence. Male transobturator slings and its variations are efficacious in the treatment of post-prostatectomy urinary incontinence given proper patient selection and appropriate device implantation practices. Patients with mild to moderate stress urinary incontinence that have had no prior radiotherapy and have some ability to coapt the external urethral sphincter have the highest success rates.
High quality factor photonic crystal filter at k ≈0 and its application for refractive index sensing

Abstract: We report here the refractive index (RI) sensing using the singly degenerate high quality factor (Q) modes in photonic crystal slabs (PCS) with the free-space coupled incident beam close to normal incidence. Q values of 3.2x104 and 1.8x104 were achieved for the fabricated PCS in air and aqueous solution, respectively. A spectral sensitivity (S) of 94.5 nm/RIU and a detection limit (DL) of 3x10−5 RIU were achieved with our device. Such a high-Q cavity for the singly degenerate mode close to normal incidence is very promising to achieve a lower DL for RI sensing.
Call for Papers: Partnership and Environment (IJPS Fall 2017 issue)

The Interdisciplinary Journal of Partnership Studies will publish a themed issue in Fall 2017: Partnership and Environment. The guest editor of this issue invites researchers, scholars and authors to submit original writing for publication in its October 2017 issue (Vol. 4 No. 3). The submission deadline is August 1st, 2017. Early submissions are welcome and will receive preference in the publication process.
Generating and Maintaining Transgenic Cryptosporidium parvum Parasites

The apicomplexan parasite Cryptosporidium is a leading cause of diarrheal disease and an important contributor to overall global child mortality. We currently lack effective treatment and immune prophylaxis. Recent advances now permit genetic modification of this important pathogen. We expect this to produce rapid advances in fundamental as well as translational research on cryptosporidiosis. Here we outline genetic engineering for Cryptosporidium in sufficient detail to establish transfection in any laboratory that requires access to this key technology. This chapter details the conceptual design consideration, as well as the experimental steps required to transfect, select, and isolate transgenic parasites. We also provide detail on key in vitro and in vivo assays to detect, validate, and quantify genetically modified Cryptosporidium parasites. © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
The Interdependence Between Transmission Switching and Variable-Impedance Series FACTS Devices

High congestion costs and new congestion patterns, formed by intermittent renewable generation, demand for more efficient utilization of the transmission system. Transmission switching (TS) and variable-impedance series FACTS devices are two technologies that provide such efficiency gains through controlling the power flows. As the system operators begin to utilize these tools, it is essential to understand the interdependence between them at various stages, such as planning and operation. This paper develops an optimal power flow framework that incorporates both FACTS and TS to study the link between the two power flow control technologies. The simulation results on an RTS 96-bus system suggest that: 1) substantial economic savings can be achieved through utilization of both TS and FACTS, beyond the independent capabilities of each technology; 2) performing TS actions affect the optimal location and set point of FACTS devices; and 3) operation of FACTS devices affect the location and frequency of TS actions. It is, thus, essential to acknowledge the interdependence between the two technologies both at the planning and operation stage. Failure to do so will lead to economic inefficiencies that can be avoided through co-optimization of generation dispatch, TS, and FACTS.
Measuring alcohol use across the transition to adulthood: Racial/ethnic, sexual identity, and educational differences

Abstract Background Patterns of alcohol use change from adolescence to adulthood and may differ based on race/ethnicity, sexual identity, and education. If alcohol use measures do not operate consistently across groups and developmental periods, parameter estimates and conclusions may be biased. Objectives To test the measurement invariance of a multi-item alcohol use measure across groups defined by race/ethnicity, sexual identity, and college education during the transition to adulthood. Methods Using three waves from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health, we tested configural, metric, and scalar invariance of a 3-item alcohol use measure for groups defined by race/ethnicity, sexual identity, and college education at three points during the transition to adulthood. We then assessed longitudinal measurement invariance to test the feasibility of modeling developmental changes in alcohol use within groups defined by these characteristics. Results Overall, findings confirm notable variability in the construct reliability of a multi-item alcohol use measure during the transition to adulthood. The alcohol use measure failed tests of metric and scalar invariance, increasingly across ages, both between- and within-groups defined by race/ethnicity, sexual identity, and college education, particularly among females. Conclusions Measurement testing is a critical step when utilizing multi-item measures of alcohol use. Studies that do not account for the effects of group or longitudinal measurement non-invariance may be statistically biased, such that recommendations for risk and prevention efforts could be misguided.
Characterization and Partial Purification of a Non-Heparin-Binding Prostate Growth Factor from Cancerous Human Prostate

A polypeptide growth factor has been isolated from human prostatic tissue (PrGF) obtained at the time of radical prostatectomy. Following extraction in 1.0 M acetic acid and column chromatography, preliminary characterization shows this trypsin-sensitive mitogen to be stable to acidic and reducing conditions and only minimally heat inactivated. It has an apparent molecular weight of 22kD, approximate pI of 7.5, and does not bind to heparin-sepharose in 0.15 M NaC1. In contrast to EGF and bFGF, PrGF stimulates uptake of thymidine by quiescent NRK-52E kidney epithelial cells. To further delineate which factors stimulate this cell line, a separate preparation was made by extraction in high ionic strength, neutral pH, with protease inhibitors (9) and separated into heparin-binding and non-heparin-binding fractions. Only the fraction which did not bind to heparin showed mitogenic activity for the 52E cell line, and this activity was stable to acid conditions suggesting the presence of a mitogen similar to that obtained in the acidic extract. Using a separate fibroblast cell line which is stimulated equally by EGF, FGF, and PrGF the stimulatory effect of EGF but not PrGF was abrogated in a dose-dependent fashion by the addition of anti-EGF. Based on this preliminary characterization, our prostatic growth factor appears to be distinct from EGF and the heparin binding class of growth factors (FGF).
A Study of Children’s Metalinguistic Abilities: Results and Discussion

The results for each of the tasks, taken individually, will first be presented and discussed. Following this, the interrelationships among the children’s performances on the several tasks will be considered.
Status surveys for the endangered plant species Narthecium americanum (bog asphodel, Liliaceae) in the New Jersey Pine Barrens, using remote sensing and geographic information systems1

Systematic field surveys were conducted for Narthecium americanum in the New Jersey Pine Barrens in order to determine its status and distribution. Surveys were carried out for 61 extant populations (98% of total) and 12 historic/extirpated populations (60% of total), and in approximately 180 km of potential habitat in riverside bogs and fens for de novo populations. Potential habitat was identified using infrared aerial photography and was systematically surveyed at each site, with GPS data collected on the perimeters of all Narthecium patches found. Notable findings included the discovery of 33 de novo populations, increasing the number of known occurrences by 57% and the total areal coverage by 86%. Other populations that previous surveys had failed to find were rediscovered, and several extirpations were confirmed. Spatial analyses found the total area of N. americanum to be 32 ha, ranging from less than 1 m2 to more than 4 ha per site. Populations were clustered along portions of 10 rivers, and a reassessment of occurrence delineations based on their spatial distribution resulted in a reduction to 18 extant and 10 historic/extirpated occurrences. Ninety-four percent of N. americanum by area occurred on publically owned lands, 96% within state and federal Pinelands boundaries, and 81% in the Pinelands Preservation Area. Present status and threats to the species, and the usefulness of remote sensing, geographic information systems, and systematic survey methods for rare plant monitoring and research are discussed.
Stability of Early EEG Background Patterns After Pediatric Cardiac Arrest.

Purpose We aimed to determine whether EEG background characteristics remain stable across discrete time periods during the acute period after resuscitation from pediatric cardiac arrest. Methods Children resuscitated from cardiac arrest underwent continuous conventional EEG monitoring. The EEG was scored in 12-hour epochs for up to 72 hours after return of circulation by an electroencephalographer using a Background Category with 4 levels (normal, slow-disorganized, discontinuous/burst-suppression, or attenuated-featureless) or 2 levels (normal/slow-disorganized or discontinuous/burst-suppression/attenuated-featureless). Survival analyses and mixed-effects ordinal logistic regression models evaluated whether the EEG remained stable across epochs. Results EEG monitoring was performed in 89 consecutive children. When EEG was assessed as the 4-level Background Category, 30% of subjects changed category over time. Based on initial Background Category, one quarter of the subjects changed EEG category by 24 hours if the initial EEG was attenuated-featureless, by 36 hours if the initial EEG was discontinuous or burst-suppression, by 48 hours if the initial EEG was slow-disorganized, and never if the initial EEG was normal. However, regression modeling for the 4-level Background Category indicated that the EEG did not change over time (odds ratio = 1.06, 95% confidence interval = 0.96-1.17, P = 0.26). Similarly, when EEG was assessed as the 2-level Background Category, 8% of subjects changed EEG category over time. However, regression modeling for the 2-level category indicated that the EEG did not change over time (odds ratio = 1.02, 95% confidence interval = 0.91-1.13, P = 0.75). Conclusions The EEG Background Category changes over time whether analyzed as 4 levels (30% of subjects) or 2 levels (8% of subjects), although regression analyses indicated that no significant changes occurred over time for the full cohort. These data indicate that the Background Category is often stable during the acute 72 hours after pediatric cardiac arrest and thus may be a useful EEG assessment metric in future studies, but that some subjects do have EEG changes over time and therefore serial EEG assessments may be informative.
INTENSITY-MODULATED ARC THERAPY: Clinical Implementation and Experience

Intensity-modulated arc therapy, or MAT, is one of the methods for delivering intensity-modulated radiation treatments to achieve high dose conformity. Instead of delivering intensity-modulated beams with fixed gantry angles [1], IMAT delivers optimized dose distributions by rotating the radiation beam around the patient. During delivery, the field shape, which is formed by a multileaf collimator (MLC), changes constantly as determined by the required intensity distributions at different beam angles. Intensity distributions at all angles around the patient are achieved with multiple overlapping arcs of different field apertures and gantry speed. Therefore, IMAT is also different from tomotherapy[2,3], which use intensity modulated fan beams rotating around the patient to delivery the treatment slice-by-slice. As with tomotherapy, IMAT combines intensity modulation and rotational delivery. Detailed description of the technique was reported by Yu in a previous article [4].
Contacts and Communications Between Cells in Their Relationship to Morphogenesis and Differentiation

Two phenomena central to embryological thinking have been the processes of regulation and of inductive tissue interactions. Both of these represent embryological communication between cells. In the case of regulation, the cells of a mass must let each other know where they are in relation to each other so that in some way the total group of cells differentiates as a harmonious single structure. In the instance of embryonic induction, one group of cells influences another group, usually of a dissimilar type, to differentiate in a new direction, and this induction usually is reciprocal in manner. Bonner has used the term “chemical conversation” to describe the communication system of differentiating cells [1], a term which seems ideal since it portrays a picture without defining the medium used to create it [2].
Abdominal Involvement in Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

Non-Hodgkin lymphomas (NHL) comprise a heterogeneous group of malignant tumors arising from B, T or natural killer lymphocytes or their precursors (Pileri et al. 1998). They represent the most common malignancy of the immune system, with approximately 50,000 new cases diagnosed every year in the United States (Armitage 1997). These lymphomas have been increasing at a rate of approximately 4% per year in the past few decades and are now the fifth most common cause of cancer death in the United States (Lionberger and Armitage 2001).
Alterations in Male Reproductive Development: The Role of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals

In this chapter we will address the following question: to what extent does current evidence from reproductive biology and epidemiology support a causal role for endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in the pathogenesis of altered male reproductive function? We have divided this discussion into two parts; epidemiology, presented first, followed by the relevant reproductive biology. Our discussion will focus primarily on semen quality, testicular cancer, hypospadias, and cryptorchidism, which we will refer to collectively as “adverse male endpoints”. Other male reproductive parameters, including altered prostate development and prostate cancer, will also be discussed briefly. An historical overview of EDCs, beginning with the discovery of the first synthetic estrogen in 1933, is presented first.
12p Abnormalities and the TEL Gene (ETV6) in Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

Although abnormalities involving the short arm of chromosome 12 (12p) are one of the most frequently observed rearrangements in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), little is known about the frequency of different structural abnormalities and their relationship to the status of the ETV6 (also named TEL ) gene in this region. Of 815 children with newly diagnosed ALL, 94 (11.5%) had a total of 104 cytogenetic 12p abnormalities. Loss of genetic material was observed in 67 (64%) of these abnormalities. Cases with 12p alterations had a much lower frequency of hyperdiploidy greater than 50 (7%) than did the ALL population in general, but these cases had a similar distribution of immunophenotype and similar 5-year event-free survival (70% ± 5% SE v 64% ± 2%, P = .64). Rearrangement of the ETV6 gene was identified in 36 (56%) of 64 cases evaluated. The ETV6-CBFA2 ( TEL-AML1 ) fusion transcript was found in 25 (66%) of 38 cases evaluated, and all but one of these showed ETV6 rearrangement. Importantly, ETV6 rearrangement was associated with a favorable prognosis (5-year event-free survival: 89% ± 6% v 60% ± 1%, P < .01). We conclude that most but not all 12p cytogenetic abnormalities in childhood ALL involve ETV6 , and that rearrangement of ETV6 is associated with a favorable treatment outcome.
Vectorization of Monte Carlo Algorithms for Semiconductor Simulation

The improving capabilities of computers have deeply influenced the progress of large scale semiconductor device simulations. Supercomputing techniques can greatly benefit Ensemble Monte Carlo methods, provided that the history of a large number of particles is treated simultaneously. The intrinsic randomness of the electronic transport is a major obstacle to the efficient vectorization of self-consistent algorithms which require synchrony of the ensemble at the end of periodic time intervals, when Poisson’s equation is solved to update the electric field distribution. Here, a discussion of optimization/vectorization schemes is presented, with particularly attention to strategies suitable for self-consistent Monte Carlo device simulations. Benchmarks and comparisons obtained on the CRAY X-MP/48 and the CRAY Y-MP4/464 supercomputers are also provided.
No Child Left Behind: A National Study of Its Impact on Special Education in Rural Schools

Under the most recent national mandates, the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLBA) and the newly reauthorized Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEIA), schools must bring virtuall...
Demographic differences in response rates for PHQ9 in a university student population.

Objective: To examine differences in complete response rates for depression screening questions based on demographic characteristics. Methods: Cross-sectional study examining associations between d...
A Multivariate Copula-Based Macro-Level Crash Count Model:

The current study contributes to safety literature both methodologically and empirically by developing a macro-level multivariate copula-based crash frequency model for crash counts. The multivariate model accommodates for the impact of observed and unobserved effects on zonal level crash counts of different road user groups including car, light truck, van, other motorized vehicle (including truck, bus and other vehicles), and non-motorists (including pedestrians and cyclists). The proposed model is estimated using Statewide Traffic Analysis Zone (STAZ) level road traffic crash data for the state of Florida. A host of variable groups including land-use characteristics, roadway attributes, traffic characteristics, socio-economic characteristics and demographic characteristics are considered. The model estimation results illustrate the applicability of the proposed framework for multivariate crash counts. Model estimation results are further augmented by evaluation of predictive performance and policy analysis.
Sociodemographic predictors of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and HPV Vaccine Knowledge and Awareness among Americans Who Use the Internet as Their Primary Source of Health Information

We examined differences in HPV and HPV vaccine knowledge among individuals who use the Internet as their main source of health information versus those who do not. Data were obtained from the Healt...
Thermally Regulated Recyclable Carbene Catalysts for Upgrading of Biomass Furaldehydes

The upgrading of biomass furaldehydes—furfural (FF) and 5-alkyl (R) substituted furfurals (R = Me, MF; CH2OH, HMF; CH2OMe, MMF)—into C10–14 furoins was achieved by the selective umpolung self-coupl...
The association between high‐volume intraoperative fluid administration and outcomes among pediatric patients undergoing large bowel resection

Background Traditional intraoperative fluid administration practices have been challenged this century with data suggesting improved outcomes with restrictive or goal-directed fluid administration during adult bowel surgery. Minimal data on outcomes associated with differing intraoperative fluid administration practice exists for pediatric patients. Aims We assessed factors and outcomes associated with high-volume fluid administration in pediatric patients undergoing colectomy. We hypothesized that high-volume fluid administration is associated with impaired recovery and, thus, increased length of stay. Methods A database of perioperative practice and postoperative outcomes at a tertiary pediatric hospital was queried for colectomy encounters between July 2012 and March 2017. Data extracted included patient characteristics, perioperative clinical data, and postoperative outcomes. Encounters were stratified into two groups: greater than 90th percentile fluids administered (high-volume fluid administration group) vs less than 90th percentile fluids administered. Univariable tests, multivariable logistic regression, and propensity score matched group comparisons were used to asses outcomes associated with high-volume fluid administration. Results A total of 209 colectomy encounters were identified from which 12 were excluded based on predetermined criteria. High-volume fluid administration was associated with length of stay >6 days (AOR 8.14, CI 1.75-37.8, P = 0.007), time to first meal >4 days (AOR of 5.91, CI 1.30-27.17, P = 0.02), and supplemental oxygen requirement >24 hours (AOR 3.60, CI 1.25-10.39, P = 0.02) after adjusting for ASA status, blood loss, transfusion, and open surgery. Similarly, propensity score matched patients with high-volume fluid administration vs controls were more likely to have length of stay >6 days (93% vs 54%, P = 0.007), time to first meal >4 days (93% vs 57%, P = 0.009), and supplemental oxygen requirement >24 hours (36% vs 12%, P = 0.033). Conclusion High-volume fluid administration during colectomy for pediatric patients is associated with worsened postoperative outcomes suggestive of impaired recovery.
VoiceAssist: Guiding Users to High-Quality Voice Recordings

Voice recording is a challenging task with many pitfalls due to sub-par recording environments, mistakes in recording setup, microphone quality, etc. Newcomers to voice recording often have difficulty recording their voice, leading to recordings with low sound quality. Many amateur recordings of poor quality have two key problems: too much reverberation (echo), and too much background noise (e.g. fans, electronics, street noise). We present VoiceAssist, a system that helps inexperienced users produce high quality recordings by providing real-time visual feedback on audio quality. We integrate modern audio quality measures into an interactive human-machine feedback loop, so that the audio quality can be maximized at capture-time. We demonstrate the utility of this feedback for improving the recording quality with a user study. When presented with visual feedback about recording quality, users produced recordings that were strongly preferred by third-party listeners, when compared to recordings made without this feedback.
Retrospective comparison of two enoxaparin dosing and monitoring protocols at a pediatric hospital.

PURPOSE The study analyzes the effectiveness and safety of a higher than standard enoxaparin dosing protocol implemented for pediatric patients requiring initiation of therapeutic anticoagulation. METHODS A retrospective review of 2 enoxaparin dosing and monitoring protocols was performed. The standard protocol used 1.5 mg/kg/dose (in patients <3 months of age) and 1 mg/kg/dose (in patients ≥3 months of age) with anti-Xa monitoring following the first dose. The high-dose protocol was implemented at 1.7 mg/kg/dose (in patients <3 months of age), 1.5 mg/kg/dose (in patients 3 through 11 months of age), 1.2 mg/kg/dose (in patients 1 through 4 years of age), and 1.1 mg/kg/dose (in patients 5 through 17 years of age), with anti-Xa monitoring after the second dose. Primary outcomes were number of dosing changes prior to and time to first target anti-Xa level. Secondary outcomes included percentage of patients with anti-Xa levels above target level. RESULTS The median number of dose changes required to achieve a target anti-Xa level was 1 (interquartile range [IQR], 0-1.5) and 0 (IQR, 0-1) for the standard-dose (n = 87) and high-dose groups (n = 132) (p = 0.17), respectively. The median number of dose adjustments to achieve target anti-Xa levels in the 3 through 11 months of age subgroup declined from 2 (IQR, 1-3.25) to 0 (IQR, 0-1) in the standard- versus high-dose groups, respectively (p < 0.01). No difference was seen in other age subgroups. Patients with above-target levels did not differ statistically between groups. CONCLUSION Initiating enoxaparin at higher doses in pediatric patients may result in fewer dosing changes than standard dosing. Benefit was demonstrated for the 3-11 months of age high-dose subgroup. Across all groups, the high-dose strategy was safe and did not result in a statistically significant increase in above-target levels.
Black-blood cinematic rendering: A new method for cardiac CT intraluminal visualization.

Abstract Background Cinematic rendering (CR) is a method of generating photorealistic 3D images from volumetric computed tomography (CT) data. In this manuscript, we describe a CR preset we have termed black-blood cinematic rendering (BBCR) that allows for detailed endoluminal views of the heart. Methods Three recent chest CT scans were retrospectively selected as representative examples for BBCR visualization. All scans had been performed with our institution's clinical standard, post-contrast, cardiac-gated chest CT. The BBCR images were created from isotropic-voxel reconstructed volumetric data on a stand-alone workstation. Results The BBCR technique was successfully utilized to demonstrate intraluminal cardiac findings in a patient with a normal left ventricle, a patient with a left ventricular mural thrombus, and a patient status-post transcatheter aortic valve replacement. Conclusions BBCR is a new method of utilizing volumetric chest CT data in order to provide detailed images of intraluminal anatomy and pathology of the heart. Further study of this promising method is warranted.
DETERMINATION OF CLINICALLY RELEVANT DIFFERENCES IN FRONTAL PLANE HOP TESTS IN WOMEN'S COLLEGIATE BASKETBALL AND SOCCER PLAYERS.

BACKGROUND ACL injury prevention programs are less successful in female basketball players than in soccer players. Previous authors have identified anthropometric and biomechanical differences between the athletes and different sport-specific demands, including a higher frequency of frontal plane activities in basketball. Current injury risk screening and preventive training practices do not place a strong emphasis on frontal plane activities. The medial and lateral triple hop for distance tests may be beneficial for use in the basketball population. HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE To 1) establish normative values for the medial and lateral triple hop tests in healthy female collegiate athletes, and 2) analyze differences in test scores between female basketball and soccer players. It was hypothesized that due to the frequent frontal plane demands of their sport, basketball players would exhibit greater performance during these frontal plane performance tests. STUDY DESIGN Cross-sectional. METHODS Thirty-two NCAA Division-1 female athletes (20 soccer, 12 basketball) performed three trials each of a medial and lateral triple hop for distance test. Distances were normalized to height and mass in order to account for anthropometric differences. Repeated measures ANOVAs were performed to identify statistically significant main effects of sport (basketball vs. soccer), and side (right vs. left), and sport x side interactions. RESULTS After accounting for anthropometric differences, soccer players exhibited significantly better performance than basketball players in the medial and lateral triple hop tests (p < 0.05). Significant side differences (p = 0.02) were identified in the entire population for the medial triple hop test, such that participants jumped farther on their left (400.3 ± 41.5 cm) than right (387.9 ± 43.4 cm) limbs, but no side differences were identified in the lateral triple hop. No significant side x sport interactions were identified. CONCLUSIONS Women's basketball players exhibit decreased performance of frontal plane hop tests when compared to women's soccer players. Additionally, the medial triple hop for distance test may be effective at identifying side-to-side asymmetries. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 3.
High throughput sequencing of in vitro selections of mRNA-displayed peptides: data analysis and applications

In vitro selection using mRNA display is currently a widely used method to isolate functional peptides with desired properties. The analysis of high throughput sequencing (HTS) data from in vitro evolution experiments has proven to be a powerful technique but only recently has it been applied to mRNA display selections. In this Perspective, we introduce aspects of mRNA display and HTS that may be of interest to physical chemists. We highlight the potential of HTS to analyze in vitro selections of peptides and review recent advances in the application of HTS analysis to mRNA display experiments. We discuss some possible issues involved with HTS analysis and summarize some strategies to alleviate them. Finally, the potential for future impact of advancing HTS analysis on mRNA display experiments is discussed.
125P Community Therapy by Early Breast Cancer Detection and its Prevention by Lifestyle Modification

ABSTRACT In India, breast cancer accounts for 25- 33% of all cancers in urban women and over 50% patients are diagnosed at late stages (III & IV), deeply impacting survival-rate. Statistics forecasts rural areas are 10% more likely to be affected with late-stage breast cancer. One of the strongest risk factors for developing breast cancer is preceded by lifestyle. Therefore lifestyle modification can herald in prevention of disease. Early mammography detection also results in good survival in 75% of cases as seen in West. This trend can be achieved in rural India with aggressive awareness, precautionary screening and treatments. Our objective was to ascertain a comprehensive clinically-relevant diagnostic and curative model in conjunction with community outreach and mobilization program along with life style modification. During January, 2001 to December, 2011 we performed awareness and early detection camps in Burdwan district every month. Target population was rural females of age group 25-60 yrs. We covered 20,000 female of 18 blocks and followed them regularly. Our endeavor involved awareness for breast cancer associated risk factors, early self-detectable symptoms, along with benefits of lifestyle modification, screening women for characteristic masses/lumps and follow up. We confirmed one doubtful case by micro-calcification using mammography in our satellite center. Till date we have seen that mere modification of lifestyle can reduce incidence of breast cancer by almost 60%. Recommendations to be implemented are marriage within 23-27 yrs, two childbirths before 30 years, breast feeding for at least six months, 30 minutes brisk walking five days a week, high quality of nutritious diet without fatty and salty food, 3 L of water per day, avoiding alcohol, tobacco and leading a tension-free life. We were able to detect 160 cases (0.03%) in early stage among which 157 (98.12%) were disease free on follow-up. Three had progressed with metastasis. Retrospective history suggests that the breast cancer cases were used to be detected in advanced stage in that area. Life style modification and early detection is very important in breast cancer control in our country. We are willing to continue same program in larger randomized scale. Disclosure All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.
If the Unthinkable Happens: Families After SUID

Clinicians, public health professionals, and others involved in the care of an infant and family after SUID can feel ill prepared to offer support and guidance in the aftermath of this tragic loss. This chapter focuses on family experiences, likely responses, available resources, and the clinician’s role following SUID. Infants die from SUID both with and without risk factors, and they often have predictable questions. Coping after SUID is an isolating and extremely difficult experience for parents. Most of their relationships are tested. Rates of Prolonged Grief Disorder are extremely high when compared to other kinship groups. Concrete contributions include guiding the family through the forensic system and advocating for their need to find answers. The family will be helped by counseling about grief and anticipating solutions to social complexities. In any interaction, assessing their coping, saying their child’s name, and letting them tell their story will have therapeutic value.
10 MHz Thin-Film PZT-Based Flexible PMUT Array: Finite Element Design and Characterization.

Piezoelectric micromachined ultrasound transducers (PMUT) incorporating lead zirconate titanate PbZr0.52Ti0.48O3 (PZT) thin films were investigated for miniaturized high-frequency ultrasound systems. A recently developed process to remove a PMUT from an underlying silicon (Si) substrate has enabled curved arrays to be readily formed. This research aimed to improve the design of flexible PMUT arrays using PZFlex, a finite element method software package. A 10 MHz PMUT 2D array working in 3-1 mode was designed. A circular unit-cell was structured from the top, with concentric layers of platinum (Pt)/PZT/Pt/titanium (Ti) on a polyimide (PI) substrate. Pulse-echo and spectral response analyses predicted a center frequency of 10 MHz and bandwidth of 87% under water load and air backing. A 2D array, consisting of the 256 (16 × 16) unit-cells, was created and characterized in terms of pulse-echo and spectral responses, surface displacement profiles, crosstalk, and beam profiles. The 2D array showed: decreased bandwidth due to protracted oscillation decay and guided wave effects; mechanical focal length at 2.9 mm; 3.7 mm depth of field for -6 dB; and -55.6 dB crosstalk. Finite element-based virtual prototyping identified figures of merit—center frequency, bandwidth, depth of field, and crosstalk—that could be optimized to design robust, flexible PMUT arrays.