cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Combinational equivalence checking for threshold logic circuits

Threshold logic is gaining prominence as an alternative to Boolean logic. The main reason for this trend is the availability of devices that implement these circuits efficiently (current mode, differential mode circuits), as well as the promise they hold for the future nanoalldevices (RTDs, SETs, QCAs and other nano devices). This has generated renewed interest in the design automation community to design efficient CAD tools for threshold logic. Recently a lot of work has been done to synthesize threshold logic circuits. So far there has been no efficient method to verify the synthesized circuits. In this work we address the problem of combinational equivalence checking for threshold circuits. We propose a new algorithm, to obtain compact functional representation of threshold elements. We give the proof of correctness, and analyze its runtime complexity. We use this polynomial time algorithm to develop a new methodology to verify threshold circuits. We report the result of our experiments, comparing the proposed methodology to the naive approach. We get up to 189X improvement in the run time (23X on average), and could verify circuits that the naive approach could not.
Sézary syndrome in a cat.

Sezary syndrome is an uncommon leukemic variant of cutaneous lymphoma in cats. This cat had recurrent dermatitis with erythematous, pruritic plaques. Multiple skin imprints and biopsy samples were obtained over a 6-month period, and histopathological findings were consistent initially with eosinophilic miliary dermatitis and later with erythema multiforme. One week before death, Sezary cells were identified in the peripheral blood that expressed cluster of differentiation (CD)3 and CD8 antigens. Massive infiltration of CD3+ lymphocytes was noted in the skin and multiple internal tissues by histopathological examination. This case demonstrates the difficulty in diagnosing cutaneous lymphoma early in the disease course.
Securing Enterprise Applications: Service-Oriented Security (SOS)

Some of the characteristics that make service-oriented architectures appealing for enterprise applications also make them vulnerable to security breaches. The vulnerabilities are primarily due to the openness of the service-execution environment, to the dynamic run-time selection and composition of services, and to the autonomy of the individual services. In this paper, we describe these vulnerabilities and discuss ways of mitigating them. Such ways include software agent technology and distributed database transaction semantics.
Kα resonance fluorescence in Al, Ti, Cu and potential applications for X-ray sources

Abstract The K α resonance fluorescence (RFL) effect via photoabsorptions of inner shell electrons as the element goes through multiple ionization states is studied. We demonstrate that the resonances observed recently in K α (1s–2p) fluorescence in aluminum plasmas by using a high-intensity X-ray free-electron laser [1] are basically K-shell resonances in hollow atoms going through multiple ionization states at resonant energies as predicted earlier for gold and iron ions [2] . These resonances are formed below the K-shell ionization edge and shift toward higher energies with ionization states, as observed. Fluorescence emission intensities depend on transition probabilities for each ionization stage of the given element for all possible K α ( 1 s → 2 p ) transition arrays. The present calculations for resonant photoabsorptions of K α photons in Al have reproduced experimentally observed features. Resonant cross sections and absorption coefficients are presented for possible observation of K α RFL in the resonant energy ranges of 4.5–5.0 keV for Ti ions and 8.0–8.7 keV for Cu ions respectively. We suggest that theoretically the K α RFL process may be driven to enhance the Auger cycle by a twin-beam monochromatic X-ray source, tuned to the K-edge and K α energies, with potential applications such as the development of narrow-band biomedical X-ray devices.
Performance analysis for coded multiuser CDMA systems with optimum joint multiuser decoding/detection

Optimum joint multiuser decoding/detection in coded CDMA systems is computationally prohibitive. However, iterative methods were shown to be computationally manageable while providing near optimum performance. With these advances, one can not help asking the question:"what is the the optimum performance possible in a coded CDMA multiuser system?" In the past, performance analysis in terms of asymptotic efficiency was mentioned in [3]. While such analysis is useful at very high signal to noise ratio (SNR), it may not be accurate enough in lower ranges of SNR. We first derive a precise formula for the probability of an error event which is represented by an error matrix. Then, an approximation of the bit error rate (BER) performance is given.
Scott B. Frame, MD Memorial Lecture. Judgment based on knowledge: a history of prehospital trauma life support, 1970-2013.

CONCLUSION: PHTLS has had a good acceptance throughout the world. That is because of the people in the pictures that I have shown, as well as a lot of people whom we have not had time to show today. It is what these hard working unselfish individuals have done to make PHTLS and its associated projects such as an international standard. Three-quarters-of-a-million providers in sixty-one countries taught by 7,500 instructors have taken PHTLS since it started. It has been of remarkable importance and of tremendous impact, but we also can’t forget the impact of the companion course, Basic Trauma Life Support (now known as International Trauma Life Support) that was started by Dr. John Campbell, an emergency physician in Alabama, supported by Alabama ACEP. He sent me a copy of his initial book along with a nice letter. John has also a major impact in teaching people how to take care of patients. These photographs are of the current members of the PHTLS committee, as well as other who that are actively involved in PHTLS (Fig. 8). Will Chapleau has really been the leader of PHTLS and has made it work. I cannot say enough about him and his work. You are all familiar with his work with ATLS and many of the things within the American College of Surgeons, but he has made PHTLS what it is. We know that our patients, our trauma patients, are cared for by the PHTLS standards that were strongly supported by Scott Frame a long time ago. I’m sorry that he’s not here with this today in his body, but I know that his spirit is standing here on the podium with me today just as Joyce is sitting in the audience. Thank you very much for allowing me to honor Scott with this lecture.
Longitudinal Trends in U.S. Drug Shortages for Medications Used in Emergency Departments (2001–2014)

Objectives This was a study of longitudinal trends in U.S. drug shortages within the scope of emergency medicine (EM) practice from 2001 to 2014. Methods Drug shortage data from the University of Utah Drug Information Service were analyzed from January 2001 to March 2014. Two board-certified emergency physicians classified drug shortages based on whether they were within the scope of EM practice, whether they are used for lifesaving interventions or high-acuity conditions, and whether a substitute for the drug exists for its routine use in emergency care. Trends in the length of shortages for drugs used in EM practice were described using standard descriptive statistics and regression analyses. Results Of the 1,798 drug shortages over the approximately 13-year period (159 months), 610 shortages (33.9%) were classified as within the scope of EM practice. Of those, 321 (52.6%) were for drugs used as lifesaving interventions or for high-acuity conditions, and of those, 32 (10.0%) were for drugs with no available substitute. The prevalence of EM drug shortages fell from 2002 to 2007; however, between January 2008 and March 2014, the number of EM drug shortages sharply increased by 435% from 23 to 123. From January 2008 to March 2014 shortages in drugs used as a direct lifesaving intervention or for high-acuity conditions increased 393% from 14 to 69, and shortages for drugs with no available substitute grew 125% from four to nine. Almost half (46.6%) of all EM drug shortages were caused by unknown reasons (the manufacturer did not cite a specific reason when contacted). Infectious disease drugs were the most common EM drugs on shortage, with 148 drug shortages totaling 2,213 months during the study period. Conclusions Drug shortages impacting emergency care have grown dramatically since 2008. The majority of shortages are for drugs used for lifesaving interventions or high-acuity conditions. For some, no substitute is available.
Flow Properties of Adhesives

Rheology is defined as the study of deformation and flow of matter. In actual practice, its scope is narrower than permitted by this definition. Rheology ordinarily excludes gases, and gives short shrift to Newtonian liquids and Hookean solids. Nonlinear fluids and viscoelastic solids are the systems which are most interesting to rheologists. On a molecular scale, these Theologically interesting materials are composed of molecules or other particles which are very large compared to the atoms or molecules of the elements, yet are small enough to undergo appreciable Brownian movement at ordinary temperatures.
End of the road for delayed hyperenhancement cardiac magnetic resonance

Delayed hyperenhancement cardiac magnetic resonance (DHE-CMR), although considered a robust technique for the determination of myocardial viability, nonetheless has perceived shortcomings as a result of relatively long scan times, pacemaker/defibrillator incompatibility, and, more recently, concerns
Practical Experience, Expectations, Hiring, Promotion and Tenure: A Real Estate Perspective

Executive Summary. This article presents an investigation of the effect of business experience on teaching, hiring and promotion decisions. Real estate academicians’ perceptions of the importance o...
Psychological Factors Influencing Response Preferences Using Speech Technology as an “On-Line Interviewer”

Users may not always desire natural language exchange with speech-capable systems. Regression and analysis of variance techniques were used to examine the choice of words vs. numbers as preferred speech input mode in response to items on two psychological tests presented by computerized voice output. Psychological factors were found to relate to response preference. This exploratory analysis suggests that additional designed experimentation assessing the psychological aspects of speech technology would prove interesting.
Statistical Mechanics of Viral Entry

Viruses that have lipid-membrane envelopes infect cells by fusing with the cell membrane to release viral genes. Membrane fusion is known to be hindered by high kinetic barriers associated with drastic structural rearrangements-yet viral infection, which occurs by fusion, proceeds on remarkably short time scales. Here, we present a quantitative framework that captures the principles behind the invasion strategy shared by all enveloped viruses. The key to this strategy-ligand-triggered conformational changes in the viral proteins that pull the membranes together-is treated as a set of concurrent, bias field-induced activated rate processes. The framework results in analytical solutions for experimentally measurable characteristics of virus-cell fusion and enables us to express the efficiency of the viral strategy in quantitative terms. The predictive value of the theory is validated through simulations and illustrated through recent experimental data on influenza virus infection.
Influence of Structural Variation in Imidazolium-Based Ionic Liquids on Saturation Points of Silica Particles

The saturation points of silicon dioxide particles in 13 ionic liquids (ILs) were measured to determine how the saturation point depends on the ionic liquid’s structure. The saturation point correlates well with pure IL properties such as melting point temperature, viscosity, molar volume, and free volume. Scanning electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering are used to investigate the shape, size and arrangement of silica particles in several ionic liquids.
Evaluation of a combined HRXCT/EBSD method for detecting epitaxial nucleation of garnet porphyroblasts

The combination of high-resolution X-ray computed tomography (HRXCT) with electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD) analysis has the potential to reveal evidence for epitaxial nucleation of garnet porphyroblasts containing an included fabric. HRXCT measures the fabric orientation near the inferred nucleation site at the crystal centre, whereas EBSD establishes the crystallographic orientation of the porphyroblast relative to the attitude of the included fabric. Using the orientation of the central fabric as a proxy for the attitudes of the basal planes of micas on which the garnet may have nucleated, one can determine if low-index planes in garnet—(100), (110), or (111)—are parallel to (001) of mica, which would correspond to known epitaxial relationships between the two minerals. We test the feasibility of this approach with a set of exploratory measurements for six garnet porphyroblasts from Passo del Sole (Switzerland) and five from the Nevado Filabride Complex (Spain); we also report unsuccessful attempts at such measurements in rocks from Harpswell Neck (USA). The results do not deviate appreciably from those expected of a set of measurements drawn from a parent population with a random distribution of orientations. However, considering the size of the present measurement uncertainties in relation to the precision required to recognize an epitaxial relationship unambiguously, it is not possible in this data set to exclude epitaxy as a nucleation mechanism. The principal limitation to this approach is the need for high precision in determining the attitude of the included fabric at the site of nucleation, which depends largely upon the choice of suitable samples. Crystals ideal for such studies would contain a non-crenulated, planar (not helicitic) foliation, defined by numerous small, well-aligned inclusions. With careful sample selection, this approach could be a viable technique for evaluating the prevalence in nature of epitaxial nucleation of garnet porphyroblasts.
High Purity Tungsten Nanostructures via Focused Electron Beam Induced Deposition with Carrier Gas Assisted Supersonic Jet Delivery of Organometallic Precursors

A substantially enhanced purity of tungsten nanostructures, with up to 95% of metal content relative to carbon contaminants with no postprocessing, is achieved by using a supersonic inert carrier gas jet in the continuum flow regime to deliver the organometallic precursor for focused electron beam induced deposition (FEBID). Through impact-enhanced desorption of residual organic ligands at the deposition site, high kinetic energy of the gas jet assists in completing the secondary electron induced dissociation of precursor molecules, resulting in both increased metal purity and enhanced deposit growth rate. The inert gas jet at low Knudsen numbers also serves as a carrier gas to increase precursor flux to the substrate. Operating in the continuum flow regime reduces jet spreading and allows the use of smaller diameter nozzles to increase localization of precursor delivery to the deposition site. This drastic increase in localized precursor flux to the substrate is shown to compensate for the diminished sti...
The Applications of the Appearance Evaluation Process of Automobile Components in Mini Commercial Vehicle Industry

The article introduces certain professional knowledge about appearance evaluation,such as basic color theory, grain etching craftsmanship and surface glossiness,and explains a set of appearance evaluation flow of automobile components.
Does Induction with Misoprostol Impact the Small for Gestational Age Neonate

Objective To compare outcomes in small for gestational age neonates induced with misoprostol to other cervical ripening agents. We hypothesized that misoprostol use will demonstrate no significant difference in outcomes compared with alternative agents. Study Design Small for gestational age neonates ( n = 451) were compared with neonates induced with prostaglandin E2 ± oxytocin and/or mechanical dilation ± oxytocin ( n = 663). Primary outcomes included intrapartum fetal distress, cesarean section for fetal distress, cesarean section for any reason, neonatal intensive care unit admission, low 5-minute Apgar, and composite neonatal morbidity. Multiple logistic regression was used to calculate adjusted odds ratios (aORs). Data were analyzed using SAS. Results Small for gestational age neonates induced with misoprostol ± oxytocin compared with alternative agents had decreased low 5-minute Apgar scores (aOR 0.27 [0.10–0.71]). No significant differences were demonstrated among very small for gestational age neonates ( Conclusion Our results suggest that misoprostol does not increase risk of adverse outcomes in small for gestational age neonates; however, prospective studies are warranted to further assess optimal cervical ripening agents in this population.
Electoral paths and support for same-sex marriage legislation: Evidence from Taiwan’s mixed-member system

To what extent do electoral institutions influence positions on same-sex marriage? Debates over same-sex marriage legislation have increased globally for the past 20 years, yet little research focuses on either debates in East Asia or the effect of electoral institutions. Using an original dataset on Taiwanese legislators and their public stances on same-sex marriage, this research finds that legislators elected under proportional representation (PR) are consistently more likely to support same-sex marriage laws than their counterparts elected in single-member districts (SMDs), even after controlling for partisanship. The results here not only highlight overlooked institutional influences on support, but also tie the broader literature on mixed-member systems to the growing research on same-sex marriage rights.
Pediatric Embryonal Tumors: Prognostic Role of Cyclin A and B1 Proteins

Embryonal brain tumors account for 20–25% of all brain neoplasms in children and represent the second most frequent group of pediatric brain tumors. Embryonal tumors include medulloblastoma, atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor and supratentorial primitive neuroectodermal tumor. These tumors are highly malignant and there is a significant long-term treatment related morbidity. Various biologic parameters have been related to outcome. Cyclins are a group of proteins which are periodically synthesized and degraded during the cell cycle. They affect progression in the cell cycle through activation of cyclin–dependent kinases forming heterodimers. This review focus on the prognostic role of the mytotic cyclins, namely cyclins A and B1, in pediatric embryonal tumors. Based on recent evidence there is a significant expression of cyclin A and cyclin B1 in embryonal tumors, whereas the expression patterns of these cyclins correlate with patient’s prognosis.
Using Google Trends Data to Gauge Interest in Virtual Worlds

Virtual worlds rose and fell in popularity a decade ago, and today's nascent commercially-available virtual reality could repeat this pattern. With sparse data available for gauging interest in technology products, such as virtual worlds or virtual reality, Google Trends search popularity has been used in prior studies as a proxy for global interest. We explore the problems with this approach using data from three virtual worlds: Second Life, Minecraft, and World of Warcraft. We find that Google Trends search volume does not correlate with user purchases or subscriptions, and the single shifted Gompertz function used in prior studies may not be sufficient to model both product user searches and searches driven by media attention.
A Hybrid Training Algorithm for Recurrent Neural Network Using Particle Swarm Optimization-Based Preprocessing and Temporal Error Aggregation

Recurrent neural network has been widely used as auto-regressive model for time series. The most commonly used training method for recurrent neural network is back propagation. However, recurrent neural networks trained with back propagation can get trapped at local minima and saddle points. In these cases, auto-regressive models cannot effectively model time series patterns. In order to address these problems, we propose a hybrid recurrent neural network training algorithm that consists of two phases: exploration and exploitation. Exploration phase uses synchronous particle swarm optimization to search for parameter settings with high activation score and low error. The results of exploration phase are trained with proposed enhanced back propagation, an improved algorithm over traditional back propagation that aggregates temporal errors across timestamps, in exploitation phase. We evaluate our proposed methods using four real-world datasets. Our proposed algorithm, applied to both regularized and adaptive momentum back propagation, increases convergence speed by 10% to 20% and reduces testing mean square error(MSE) at convergence by 5% to 30%. Using particle swarm optimization and activation list in exploration phase, the hybrid training algorithm reduces testing MSEs by more than 30% at convergence compared with traditional back propagation.
Continuum limit of QED2 on a lattice, II

Abstract In a preceding article a Matthews-Salam formula was constructed for the Schwinger functions (vacuum expectation values of polynomials in the fields) of Euclidean QED2 on a periodic lattice. For any combination of gauge or fermion fields S on a lattice with spacing proportional to N−1, Nϵ Z+, the Matthews-Salam formula for the vacuum expectation 〈S〉N has the form 〈G〉N=∫ dμWN(G.f),, where μ is an N-independent measure on a random electromagnetic field f and WN(S, f) in an N-dependent function of f and S . In the present article we prove that the limit of ∫ dμWN(G.f) exists as N → ∞ and has the form limN→∞∫ dμWN(G.f)=∫ dμW(G.f), where W(S, f) is in Lp(μ) for all p, ∞ > p > 0.
Modeling confrontation naming and discourse informativeness using structural equation modeling

Background: People with aphasia (PWA) and their families identify as their priority the ability to use language at the discourse level in order to meet their daily communicative needs. However, mea...
Low-Enriched Uranium Conversion/Power Upgrade of The Ohio State University Research Reactor

The 10-kW, highly enriched uranium (HEU) fueled Ohio State University Research Reactor (OSURR) is being upgraded to operate at 500 kW under natural convection core cooling with the recently licenced lowenriched uranium (LEU), high-density U3Si2fuel. The OSURR will be the first university reactor to use standardized U3Si2 plates for a full-core conversion from HEU to LEU fuel. The activities toward conversion/power upgrade objectives include (a) a neutronic performance assessment of 15 LEU cores with 16 plate standard and 10 plate control elements under expected operating conditions; (b) simulation of OSURR threedimensional pool dynamics under various pool configurations to limit the pool top 16N activity (PTNA) to operationally allowable levels; (c) determination of a new correlation to predict onset of nucleate boiling (ONB) in thin, rectangular channels under low-velocity, upward flow conditions; and (d) design of a pool heat removal system (PHRS). These activities have identified three possible LEU cor...
Conceptualizing Hoarding Behavior Among Elderly Women: A Mixed-Methods Approach

CONCEPTUALIZING HOARDING BEHAVIOR AMONG ELDERLY WOMEN: A MIXED-METHODS APPROACH By Susan J. Murdock, M.S.W. A dissertation submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy at Virginia Commonwealth University. Virginia Commonwealth University, 2006 Dissertation Committee Chairperson: Joseph Walsh, Ph.D. School of Social Work Hoarding in the con~munity involves substantial cluttering and impaired functioning, often exposing the hoarder to extensive health and safety risks. This research, based on Functionalism social theory, explores the three elements of hoarding-relentless acquisition, intense possessiveness of objects, and a reluctance to discard possessions-as a sociocultural phenomenon. The mixed methods methodology entailed a quantitative study involving a survey completed by 134 adult protective services workers throughout Virginia and a qualitative study of five randomly-selected adult protective services workers who volunteered for in-depth interviews. Findings revealed that adult protective services workers come in contact with very severe cases of hoarding, with over two-thirds of the cases cited having extremely
A total enclosing active charged particle shield

Abstract The 4π hollow scintillator shield uses two curved-cathode photomultipliers. By utilizing both total internal and spectral reflection and having the shield thickness compensatingly greater at larger distances from the phototubes, considerable improvement in light collection is realized.
Who Are the Classmates of Students with Disabilities in Elementary Mathematics Classrooms

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act stresses the importance of educating students with disabilities (SWDs) in the least restrictive environment, often with peers who do not have disabil...
Patient Attitudes Toward Individualized Recommendations to Stop Low-Value Colorectal Cancer Screening.

Importance Guidelines for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening recommend an individualized approach in older adults that is informed by consideration of life expectancy and cancer risk. However, little is known about how patients perceive individualized screening recommendations. Objective To assess veterans’ attitudes toward and comfort with cessation of low-value CRC screening (defined as screening in a patient for whom the benefit is expected to be small based on quantitative estimates from hypothetical risk calculators). Design, Setting, and Participants This survey study included patients older than 50 years who had undergone prior screening colonoscopy with normal results at the Veterans Affairs Ann Arbor Healthcare System. A total of 1500 surveys were mailed to potential participants from November 1, 2010, to January 1, 2012. Survey data were analyzed from January 1, 2016, to December 31, 2017. Main Outcomes and Measures Response to the question, “If you personally had serious health problems that were likely to shorten your life and your doctor did not think screening would be of much benefit based on the calculator, how comfortable would you be with not getting any more screening colonoscopies?” Results Of the 1500 surveys mailed, 85 were returned to sender, leaving 1415 potential respondents; 1054 of these respondents (median age range, 60-69 years; 884 [85.9%] white and 965 [94.2%] male) completed the survey (response rate, 74.5%). A total of 300 (28.7%) were not at all comfortable with cessation of low-value CRC screening, and 509 (49.3%) thought that age should never be used to decide when to stop screening. In addition, 332 (31.7%) thought it was not at all reasonable to use life expectancy calculators, and 255 (24.3%) thought it was not at all reasonable to use CRC risk calculators to guide these decisions. In ordered logistic regression analysis, factors associated with more comfort with screening cessation were (1) higher trust in physician (odds ratio [OR], 1.19; 95% CI, 1.07-1.32), (2) higher perceived health status (OR, 1.41; 95% CI, 1.23-1.61), and (3) higher barriers to screening (OR, 1.20; 95% CI, 1.11-1.30). Factors that were associated with less comfort with screening cessation included (1) greater perceived effectiveness of screening (OR, 0.86; 95% CI, 0.80-0.94) and (2) greater perceived threat of CRC (OR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.73-0.89). Conclusions and Relevance The findings suggest that many veterans have strong preferences against screening cessation even when given detailed information about why the benefit may be low. Efforts to tailor screening recommendations may be met by resistance unless they are accompanied by efforts to address underlying perceptions about the benefit of screening.
Academic Words and Gender: ESL Student Performance on a Test of Academic Lexicon.

This paper seeks to resolve certain questions pertaining to the relationship between gender and second language vocabulary knowledge. One question we examine is whether female and male ESL students at the University of California at Irvine differ significantly in their knowledge of academic vocabulary in English as measured by scores on the Test of Academic Lexicon (TAL). One hundred ninety-two freshman university ESL students participated in the study. A t test, used to investigate differences in the TAL scores of males and females, reveals that the males performed better on the TAL than the females (t = 3.32, p = .001). Analyses of covariance were used to examine questions pertaining to the effect of gender on the TAL, controlling for the possible effects of the students' verbal Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) scores, length of residence in the United States, and age of arrival in the United States. In all cases, gender remains significantly related to the results of the TAL when controlling for the other variable: for verbal SAT scores, F(1,181) = 5.86, p < .05; for length of residence, F(1,187) = 9.64, p < .01; and for age of arrival in the United States, F(1,185) = 10.22, p < .005. Neither the present study nor the gender literature reviewed suggests that gender itself causes differences in the TAL scores. In analyzing the results, we consider possible explanations for the males' better TAL scores related to reading habits, interactional styles, educational backgrounds, and cultures.
Early Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in Children Supported with ECMO for Cardiac Indications

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is lifesaving for many critically ill children with congenital heart disease (CHD). However, limited information is available about their ensuing neurodevelopmental (ND) outcomes. We describe early ND outcomes in a cohort of children supported with ECMO for cardiac indications. Twenty-eight patients supported with ECMO at age < 36 months underwent later ND testing at 12–42 months of age using the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, Third Edition (Bayley-III). ND scores were compared with normative means and with ND outcomes of a matched cohort of 79 children with CHD undergoing cardiac surgery but not requiring ECMO support. Risk factors for worse ND outcomes were identified using multivariable linear regression models. Cardiac ECMO patients had ND scores at least one standard deviation below the normative mean in the gross motor (61%), language (43%), and cognitive (29%) domains of the Bayley-III. Cardiac ECMO patients had lower scores on the motor, language, and cognitive domains as compared to the matched non-ECMO group and clinically important (1/2 SD) differences in the motor domain persisted after controlling for primary caregiver education and number of cardiac catheterizations. Risk factors of worse ND outcomes among cardiac ECMO patients in more than one developmental domain included older age at first cannulation and more cardiac catheterization and cardiac surgical procedures prior to ND assessment. Overall, children supported on ECMO for cardiac indications have significant developmental delays and warrant close ND follow-up.
The First Encounter

“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you” is as true in surgery as it is in life. Two colorectal surgeons, one a 40-year veteran and another new to her practice, share their insights into how to create an environment of trust and cooperation for the patient while also making efficient use of physician time and generating referrals. Key lessons include how to manage a patient’s needs and expectations from the first phone call, or from the initial physician referral; how to present yourself to inspire confidence in your care; how to best interact with patients and other physicians by phone and e-mail; how to conduct difficult patient conversations (i.e., ostomies, neoadjuvant therapy); how best to counsel a patient and get consent; how to use the Internet to promote your practice and guide a patient’s research; how to assure that a patient follows through on his or her “to do” list; and how to communicate with a patient’s family members, as well as other physicians. While you may already have your own style, we hope you will be able to glean something valuable or prompt reflection into how to better approach this crucial time period in caring for patients.
Phospholipase D and the Mitogen Phosphatidic Acid in Human Disease: Inhibitors of PLD at the Crossroads of Phospholipid Biology and Cancer

Lipids are key building blocks of biological membranes and are involved in complex signaling processes such as metabolism, proliferation, migration, and apoptosis. Extracellular signaling by growth factors, stress, and nutrients is transmitted through receptors that activate lipid-modifying enzymes such as the phospholipases, sphingosine kinase, or phosphoinositide 3-kinase, which then modify phospholipids, sphingolipids, and phosphoinositides. One such important enzyme is phospholipase D (PLD), which cleaves phosphatidylcholine to yield phosphatidic acid and choline. PLD isoforms have dual role in cells. The first involves maintaining cell membrane integrity and cell signaling, including cell proliferation, migration, cytoskeletal alterations, and invasion through the PLD product PA, and the second involves protein-protein interactions with a variety of binding partners. Increased evidence of elevated PLD expression and activity linked to many pathological conditions, including cancer, neurological and inflammatory diseases, and infection, has motivated the development of dual- and isoform-specific PLD inhibitors. Many of these inhibitors are reported to be efficacious and safe in cells and mouse disease models, suggesting the potential for PLD inhibitors as therapeutics for cancer and other diseases. Current knowledge and ongoing research of PLD signaling networks will help to evolve inhibitors with increased efficacy and safety for clinical studies.
Preprocedural Cross-Sectional Imaging Prior to Percutaneous Peripheral Arterial Disease Interventions:

Preprocedural cross-sectional imaging (PCSI) for peripheral artery disease (PAD) may vary due to patient complexity, anatomical disease burden, and physician preference. The objective of this study was to determine the utility of PCSI prior to percutaneous vascular interventions (PVIs) for PAD. Patients receiving first time lower extremity angiograms from 2013 to 2015 at a single institution were evaluated for PCSI performed within 180 days, defined as computed tomography angiography (CTA) or magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) evaluating abdominal to pedal vasculature. The primary outcome was technical success defined as improving the target outflow vessels to <30% stenosis. Of the 346 patients who underwent lower extremity angiograms, 158 (45.7%) patients had PCSI, including 150 patients had CTA and 8 patients had MRA. Of these, 48% were ordered by the referring provider (84% at an outside institution). Preprocedural cross-sectional imaging was performed at a median of 26 days (interquartile range: 9-53) prior to the procedure. The analysis of the institution's 5 vascular surgeons identified PCSI rates ranging from 31% to 70%. On multivariate analysis, chronic kidney disease (odds ratio [OR] = 0.35; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.17-0.73) was associated with less PSCI usage, and inpatient/emergency department evaluation (OR = 3.20; 95% CI: 1.58-6.50) and aortoiliac disease (OR = 2.78; 95% CI: 1.46-5.29) were associated with higher usage. After excluding 31 diagnostic procedures, technical success was not statistically significant with PSCI (91.3%) compared to without PCSI (85.6%), P = .11. When analyzing 89 femoral-popliteal occlusions, technical success was higher with PCSI (88%) compared to procedures without (69%) P = .026. Our analysis demonstrates that routine ordering of PCSI may not be warranted when considering technical success of PVI; however, PCSI may be helpful in treatment planning. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings in another practice setting, with more prescriptive use of PCSI to improve procedural success, and thereby improve the value of PCSI.
First Comes Cocaine, Then Comes Crack: Origin Stories

Without a steady supply of cocaine there is no crack. Without the global war on cocaine, the crack trade would be neither so profitable nor so punishing. Thus to understand crack, it helps to first understand cocaine, how that drug went from widely available pharmaceutical marvel to illicit and glamorous narcotic. First comes cocaine, then comes crack. Not that long ago, cocaine was just another thing a person could buy. It was legal in the United States and pretty much everywhere else. It was cheap. It was made by a small group of major pharmaceutical houses. And while cocaine was sold in powder form it also was a critical ingredient in medicinal syrups, patent medicine elixirs, and, to use an anachronistic term, energy drinks. Procurement of powder cocaine or a cocaine-infused consumer product took no more than a walk to a corner store.
MOURNING, AFFECT, SOCIALITY: On the Possibilities of Open Grief

This essay examines mourning and the possibilities for open grief among veterans, asking how the traces of what has been lost persist into the present in ways that find no easy resolution. It questions the normative value of an end to mourning, proposing instead that grief—and indeed our anthropological formulations of the meaning of such affects and events—might be held open, trace and memory maintained, imagining recognition as something open-ended that might recast discomfort as the potential for a different kind of sociality.
Quality and reliability of online video information of breast cancer in Spanish.

11039Background: Online health information is a central part of how patients learn about a cancer diagnosis. Involving patients in shared decision making is associated with better outcomes. Previou...
Radiotherapy for Extramedullary Tumors

Radiation therapy plays an integral role in the modern management of benign and malignant tumors in the extramedullary space. Necessary components of radiation therapy include patient simulation, immobilization, target delineation, and quality assurance. Radiotherapy is administered in three general circumstances: primary (upfront) treatment for incidental and mildly symptomatic tumors, adjuvant treatment in both subtotal and gross total resections, and treatment of progressive recurrent disease. Advanced radiation modalities include radiosurgery and proton beam radiation. Benign tumors of the extramedullary spine that can be treated with radiation include meningioma, schwannoma, and neurofibroma. Malignant tumors of the extramedullary spine include rare entities such as intradural metastases and more commonly, leptomeningeal disease. We present multiple cases wherein new-age radiosurgical platforms are utilized in the treatment of intradural extramedullary tumors.
Congestive Heart Failure Predicts Major Complications and Increased Length of Stay in Lower Extremity Pedicled Flap Reconstruction.

Background Congestive heart failure affects 6.2 million people in the United States. Patients have a decreased cardiopulmonary reserve and often suffer from peripheral edema, important considerations in lower extremity reconstructive surgery. In this study, the authors sought to determine the impact of congestive heart failure on postoperative outcomes following lower extremity pedicled flap reconstruction using a national multi-institutional database. Methods The authors isolated all patients in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database who underwent lower extremity pedicled flap reconstruction from 2010 to 2016. Preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative variables were compared between patients with and without congestive heart failure. Multivariable regressions were performed to determine the independent effect of congestive heart failure on postoperative outcomes. Results The authors identified 1895 patients who underwent lower extremity pedicled flap reconstruction, of whom 34 suffered from congestive heart failure. No significant difference was observed between patients with versus without congestive heart failure in postoperative wound complications (superficial wound infection, deep wound infection, and wound dehiscence), renal failure, or readmission. On multivariable analysis, congestive heart failure was independently associated with increased cardiopulmonary complications (i.e., myocardial infarction, cardiac arrest, pneumonia, reintubation, and failed ventilator weaning) (OR, 3.92; 95 percent CI, 1.53 to 9.12), septic events (OR, 4.65; 95 percent CI, 2.05 to 10.02), and length of hospital stay (β, 0.37; 95 percent CI, 0.01 to 0.72). Conclusions In patients undergoing lower extremity pedicled flap reconstruction, congestive heart failure independently predicts a four-fold increase in postoperative sepsis and cardiopulmonary complications and a significantly increased length of hospital stay. The authors' findings highlight the need for heightened perioperative vigilance and medical optimization in this high-risk population. Clinical question/level of evidence Risk, II.
Is fighting hunger enough

In early October, 2020, the UN World Food Programme (WFP) was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. The WFP was recognized by the Nobel committee for its efforts to combat a surge in hunger as the coronav...
An ultra-light, superhydrophobic and thermal insulation ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene foam

Abstract Multifunctional polymer foam becomes the tendency due to the single-functional foam is difficult to adapt the various complicated environments. However, preparing multifunctional porous ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) material with high porosity is still challenge. Thus, it is desirable to develop a simple and effective method that could integrate multiple functions into polymer foam. Herein, a multifunctional UHMWPE foam was fabricated via a facile thermally induced phase separation method. The foam displays a low density of 8.23 mg cm−3, high porosity of 99.2% and robust superhydrophobicity (water contact angle of 152°), thus exhibiting excellent adsorption capacity in oil-water separation under different extreme environments. Moreover, the thermal conductivity of the foam goes down to 11.6 mWm−1K−1, which endows the foam with great thermal insulation performance under various temperature conditions. Thus, this foam can meet the demands of various practical applications.
Racial Exclusion in the Antebellum North: An Analysis of Indiana's 1851 Vote to Ban African American Immigration

Objective To econometrically model an Indiana referendum, held in 1851, on whether to ban African American immigration—the restriction passed easily—with a focus on identifying demographic groups that were less enthusiastic about this law. Methods Census data for 1850 is used in a fractional response regression model to assess the significant variation in support for this ban across Indiana's 91 counties. Results Support for the ban fell in counties with few African Americans; a large percentage of adult White males born in New England, New York, and Pennsylvania; Quaker meetinghouses; and Church of the Brethren and Mennonite congregations. Support increased in counties with a high availability of unimproved farmland. Conclusion White fears of land competition with Blacks may have prompted higher support for the ban. Groups that provided less support were often out of step with dominant Hoosier religious and political mores.
Thermodynamic stabilization of nanocrystalline aluminum

Nanocrystalline metals are generally unstable due to a large volume fraction of high-energy grain boundaries associated with a small grain size. Preferential dopant segregation to the high-energy grain boundaries is observed to enhance the stability of the material’s microstructure by minimizing its energy. Nanocrystalline aluminum-dopant systems were evaluated for thermodynamic stability against grain growth and phase precipitation via the mechanism of grain boundary segregation according to a modified regular nanocrystalline solution model. Fifty-one potential dopant elements have been evaluated for their efficacy in stabilizing nanostructures with three potential candidates, magnesium, lanthanum, and silicon, identified possessing the characteristics to promote grain boundary segregation and a state of thermodynamic stability in aluminum’s nanocrystalline regime. The minimum dopant content required to achieve nanocrystalline microstructure stability is identified for each of the three candidate elements. Beyond this minimum content, further addition of the dopant elements decreased the final microstructure’s stability with no effects on the existence of a stable nanocrystalline state.
Changing climate, changing discourse: Analyzing reporting of climate change and economic development in the U.S. Virgin Islands

Abstract The Caribbean is facing major threats due to climate change that will continue to cause environmental, economic, and social damage. Compounding these problems are the stressors associated with economic development in the region. The U.S. Virgin Islands are particularly threatened by the complex problems these two issues present as the pressures of increasing tourism threaten vital natural resources, making sustainable economic diversification necessary. As the U.S. Virgin Islands creates economic development and climate adaptation plans, it is also important to understand how local stakeholders are included in the planning process. Research on community engagement can help reveal whether planning is being done equitably. To analyze these problems, this study examined news discourse around the issues of climate change, economic development, and community engagement. By understanding discourse in local media, this study aims to evaluate the construction of knowledge regarding these issues and demonstrate areas of deficiency that should be addressed. This study took quantitative and qualitative approaches to analyze how these issues were discussed in relation to one another and examined these trends in the context of existing policies and challenges being faced by the territory. This study concludes by providing valuable insights for decision-makers to craft strategies informed by the media presentation and associated public perceptions of these issues.
How RNA modifications regulate the antiviral response

Induction of the antiviral innate immune response is highly regulated at the RNA level, particularly by RNA modifications. Recent discoveries have revealed how RNA modifications play key roles in cellular surveillance of nucleic acids and in controlling gene expression in response to viral infection. These modifications have emerged as being essential for a functional antiviral response and maintaining cellular homeostasis. In this review, we will highlight these and other discoveries that describe how the antiviral response is controlled by modifications to both viral and cellular RNA, focusing on how mRNA cap modifications, N6-methyladenosine, and RNA editing all contribute to coordinating an efficient response that properly controls viral infection.
Navigating the Storm: Community Colleges’ Decision to Pivot to Virtual International Education in Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted community college international education programs, prompting some to pivot to virtual international education (VIE). This mixed-methods study explored how community...