cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The integration of radiation therapy and immunotherapy in melanoma management

Melanoma has long been considered an “immunologic” malignancy because of numerous reports of spontaneous regression as well as abscopal phenomena along with its relative responsiveness to cancer immunotherapy. Over the past few years, there has been a resurgence of interest in cancer immunotherapy with particular focus on melanoma. Many new immunotherapeutic interventions have arisen, some with notable clinical efficacy. One such example is the current generation of checkpoint inhibitors. In this article, we shall review the recent data on checkpoint inhibition in melanoma along with a brief review of other immunotherapeutic approaches, including the encouraging and expanding role of radiation therapy in integrated immunotherapy.
Extracellular Recording of Light Responses from Optic Nerve Fibers and the Caudal Photoreceptor in the Crayfish.

Few laboratory exercises have been developed using the crayfish as a model for teaching how neural processing is done by sensory organs that detect light stimuli. This article describes the dissection procedures and methods for conducting extracellular recording from light responses of both the optic nerve fibers found in the animal’s eyestalk and from the caudal photoreceptor located in the ventral nerve cord. Instruction for ADInstruments’ data acquisition system is also featured for the data collection and analysis of responses. The comparison provides students a unique view on how spike activities measured from neurons code image-forming and non-image-forming processes. Results from the exercise show longer latency and lower frequency of firing by the caudal photoreceptor compared to optic nerve fibers to demonstrate evidence of different functions. After students learn the dissection, recording procedure, and the functional anatomy, they can develop their own experiments to learn more about the photoreceptive mechanisms and the sensory integration of modalities by these light-responsive interneurons.
Gas chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry detection of extracellular kynurenine and related metabolites in normal and lesioned rat brain

We describe here a gas chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (GC/MS/MS) method for the sensitive and concurrent determination of extracellular tryptophan and the kynurenine pathway metabolites kynurenine, 3-hydroxykynurenine (3-HK), and quinolinic acid (QUIN) in rat brain. This metabolic cascade is increasingly linked to the pathophysiology of several neurological and psychiatric diseases. Methodological refinements, including optimization of MS conditions and the addition of deuterated standards, resulted in assay linearity to the low nanomolar range. Measured in samples obtained by striatal microdialysis in vivo, basal levels of tryptophan, kynurenine, and QUIN were 415, 89, and 8 nM, respectively, but 3-HK levels were below the limit of detection (<2 nM). Systemic injection of kynurenine (100 mg/kg, i.p.) did not affect extracellular tryptophan but produced detectable levels of extracellular 3-HK (peak after 2–3 h: ∼50 nM) and raised extracellular QUIN levels (peak after 2 h: ∼105 nM). The effect of this treatment on QUIN, but not on 3-HK, was potentiated in the N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA)-lesioned striatum. Our results indicate that the novel methodology, which allowed the measurement of extracellular kynurenine and 3-HK in the brain in vivo, will facilitate studies of brain kynurenines and of the interplay between peripheral and central kynurenine pathway functions under physiological and pathological conditions.
Endosonography of the esophagus.

Endoscopic ultrasonography has emerged as a new method for obtaining highly detailed images of the esophagus. This novel imaging modality is useful in determining the etiology of submucosal esophageal lesions, has detected anatomic abnormalities in certain motility disorders, and has been useful in studying patients with portal hypertension. Endosonography should be considered the imaging method of choice for the pretherapeutic evaluation of patients with esophageal cancer. Recent data demonstrate its superior ability to determine the depth of tumor infiltration (T stage) and assess regional lymphatic adenopathy.
The Upside of Helicopter Parenting: Engaging Parents to Reduce First-Year Student Drinking

University personnel tend to view “helicopter” parents as problematic. This article presents an alternative view in which these highly engaged parents can instead be utilized productively. The authors describe and assess the fidelity of a novel program in which involved parents were effectively leveraged to mitigate student alcohol-related risk. The feasibility of utilizing similar programs at other schools is discussed as are implications for alcohol risk prevention.
Electrochemical Kinetics at the Cell Membrane: A Psysicochemical Link for Electromagnetic Bioeffects

Pulsed electromagnetically induced current (PEMIC) has been shown to stimulate the healing of delayed and non-union fractures [1–17]. In addition many cell, tissue and animal systems have been affected by PEMIC having specific waveform parameters [18–65]. It is important to consider the origins of the choice of these waveform parameters in order to relate these to the mechanism of the PEMIC bioeffects. One of the authors (AAP) was profoundly influenced by the early work of Becker [66] who proposed that electric fields play a substantial role in generation. Bassett [67] then applied this idea to bone healing stating that the pathway through which bone adaptively reponds to mechanical input may be electrical. Pilla took the findings of these authors and used an electrochemical approach to predict a set of waveform parameters based on electrochemical kinetic interactions at the cell’s surfaces [68–75]. This approach ultimately led to the creation of PEMIC waveforms now in widespread clinical use for orthopaedic applications. It is now clear, however, that when discussing the physical mechanisms of interaction of electromagnetic fields at the cellular level it is necessary to consider the targets of both the electric and magnetic components. To explain electrical effects the electrochemical kinetic model considers the role of ions as transducers of information relevant to cell function [75–76]. Coupling of the current to membrane sites is determined at least in part by their dielectric properties [77]. The kinetics of this coupling has been described by considering ion binding as a trigger for follow-up biochemical steps [75, 76, 78, 79] or by a random-walk model wherein an electrical field having the correct frequency spectrum could impose a directional drift on a charged species near a binding site [80].
Instructional Interventions for Students with Mathematics Learning Disabilities

In this chapter, intervention research on mathematics learning of students with learning disabilities is reviewed. Much of the early research has focused on learning of computational skills, basic facts and procedures, employing behavioral approaches including reinforcement and drill-and-practice. Other investigations examined the effectiveness of metacognitive strategy training in improving attention to task and basic problem solving. More recent intervention research focuses on higher-level mathematics functioning using metacognitive strategies involving problem solving, motivational, self-regulation, and affective factors in improving mathematics achievement. Some but not all of these studies meet the evidence-based criteria. Finally, some recent efforts have begun to examine the role of early mathematics instruction within a Response to Intervention framework. Implications of this research with respect to National Council for Teachers of Mathematics standards are provided.
Calvin and Trent: Calvin's Reaction to the Council of Trent in the Context of his Conciliar Thought

It is self-evident from a survey of the Calvin Corpus that the Reformer's polemic with the Roman Catholic Church was one of the most important and essential aspects of his labors. However, it is distressing to note that this area of Calvin's thought, which finds its fullest expression in the many tracts which he penned in the 1540's, has been all but neglected in recent Calvin scholarship. The purpose of this brief essay is to outline one aspect of Calvin's attack on Rome: his reactions to the Council of Trent. Nowhere in Reformation literature are the essential theological and ecclesiastical issues which divided Rome and the Reformers more lucidly delineated.
Inhibition of the prostaglandin E2 receptor EP2 prevents status epilepticus-induced deficits in the novel object recognition task in rats

Survivors of exposure to an organophosphorus nerve agent may develop a number of complications including long-term cognitive deficits (Miyaki et al., 2005; Nishiwaki et al., 2001). We recently demonstrated that inhibition of the prostaglandin E2 receptor, EP2, attenuates neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration caused by status epilepticus (SE) induced by the soman analog, diisopropylfluorophosphate (DFP), which manifest within hours to days of the initial insult. Here, we tested the hypothesis that DFP exposure leads to a loss of cognitive function in rats that is blocked by early, transient EP2 inhibition. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were administered vehicle or the competitive EP2 antagonist, TG6-10-1, (ip) at various times relative to DFP-induced SE. DFP administration resulted in prolonged seizure activity as demonstrated by cortical electroencephalography (EEG). A single intraperitoneal injection of TG6-10-1 or vehicle 1 h prior to DFP did not alter the development of seizures, the latency to SE or the duration of SE. Rats administered six injections of TG6-10-1 starting 90 min after the onset of DFP-induced SE could discriminate between a novel and familiar object 6–12 weeks after SE, unlike vehicle treated rats which showed no preference for the novel object. By contrast, behavioral changes in the light-dark box and open field assays were not affected by TG6-10-1. Delayed mortality after DFP was also unaffected by TG6-10-1. Thus, selective inhibition of the EP2 receptor may prevent SE-induced memory impairment in rats caused by exposure to a high dose of DFP.
Susceptibility underestimation in a high-susceptibility phantom: Dependence on imaging resolution, magnitude contrast, and other parameters.

Purpose We assessed the accuracy of quantitative susceptibility mapping in a gadolinium balloon phantom with a large range of susceptibility values and imaging resolutions at 1.5 and 3 Tesla (T). Theory and Methods The phantom contained sources with susceptibility values of 0.4, 0.8, 1.6, and 3.2 ppm and was imaged at isotropic resolutions of 0.7, 0.8, 1.2, and 1.8 mm. Numerical simulations were performed to match the experimental findings. Voxel sensitivity effects were used to explain the susceptibility underestimations. Results Both phantom data and simulation demonstrated that systematic underestimation of the susceptibility values increased with voxel size, field strength, and object susceptibility. Conclusion The underestimation originates from the signal formation in a voxel, which can be described by the voxel sensitivity function. The amount of underestimation is thus affected by imaging resolution, magnitude contrast, image filtering, and details of the susceptibility inclusions such as the susceptibility value and geometry. High-resolution imaging is therefore needed for accurate reconstruction of QSM values, especially at higher susceptibilities. Magn Reson Med, 2016. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine
Challenges for Graduate Marketing Education in the Twenty-First Century

(1990). Challenges for Graduate Marketing Education in the Twenty-First Century. Marketing Education Review: Vol. 1, No. 1, pp. 34-44.
The role of parental psychopathology and personality in adolescent non-suicidal self-injury

Adolescent non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI), a significant risk factor for suicidal behavior, is strongly associated with adolescent psychopathology and personality traits, particularly those characterized by poor self-regulation. Some parental psychopathology and personality traits have also been identified as risk factors for adolescent NSSI, but specific parental characteristics and mechanisms involved in this association have not been systematically examined. The current study comprehensively investigated the contribution of parental psychopathology and personality to adolescent NSSI using data from the baseline wave of the Adolescent Development of Emotion and Personality Traits (ADEPT) study of 550 adolescent girls (mean age = 14.39 years, SD = 0.63) and their biological parents. We first investigated whether parental lifetime psychiatric diagnoses, and personality and clinical (rumination, self-criticism, emotional reliance) traits were associated with adolescent NSSI. We also tested whether adolescent history of psychiatric illness, personality, and clinical traits mediated the associations between parental characteristics and adolescent NSSI. Parental substance use disorder, adult-ADHD symptoms, self-criticism, and lower agreeableness and conscientiousness were associated with offspring's NSSI. These associations were mediated through adolescent characteristics. In contrast, parental mood and anxiety disorders and neuroticism were unrelated to adolescent NSSI. The results suggest that parental traits and disorders characterized by self-regulatory difficulties and lack of support constitute risk factors for self-injury in adolescent girls, acting via adolescent traits. This demonstrates that parental influences play a significant role in the etiology of adolescent NSSI.
Robust regression: an inferential method for determining which independent variables are most important

ABSTRACTConsider the usual linear regression model consisting of two or more explanatory variables. There are many methods aimed at indicating the relative importance of the explanatory variables. But in general these methods do not address a fundamental issue: when all of the explanatory variables are included in the model, how strong is the empirical evidence that the first explanatory variable is more or less important than the second explanatory variable? How strong is the empirical evidence that the first two explanatory variables are more important than the third explanatory variable? The paper suggests a robust method for dealing with these issues. The proposed technique is based on a particular version of explanatory power used in conjunction with a modification of the basic percentile method.
Upregulation of inhibitory signaling receptor programmed death marker-1 (PD-1) in disease evolution from cutaneous lymphoid dyscrasias to mycosis fungoides and Sezary's syndrome.

Abstract Background Negative immunoregulatory checkpoints impede effective immune responses to tumor and reduce the action of anticancer agents. One such example is programmed death marker-1 (PD-1), an inhibitory signaling receptor expressed on activated and regulatory T-cells. PD-1 expression was reported in a few reports, but the expression profile of PD-1 and mycosis fungoides (MF) remains largely to be characterized. Design In this study, skin biopsies from 42 prelymphomatous T-cell dyscrasias (CLD), 9 Sezary's syndrome (SS), 103 MF, and 20 CD30+ lymphoproliferative diseases (LPD) were examined for PD-1 expression using immunohistochemistry. Results PD-1 staining was observed amidst many neoplastic T-cells in 6/9(66.7%) and 62/103 (60.2%) cases of SS and MF respectively, while only 6/42 (14.3%) cases of CLD and 0/20 (0%) cases of CD30+ LPD ( P Conclusion PD-1 seems to correlate with disease progression in epitheliotropic T cell dyscrasias ranging from minimal staining in prelymphomatous dyscrasias to significant staining in MF, likely reflecting the effects of PD-1 on inhibiting tumor surveillance regulatory T cell populations. PD-1 was consistently expressed in MF while it was consistently negative in primary CD30+ LPD, suggesting the possibility of using PD-1 as a means of distinguishing CD30+ MF from primary cutaneous ALCL.
Nerve Growth Factor Gene Expression in Actively Growing Brain Glia

Previous work suggested that brain nerve growth factor (NGF) acts locally on cells adjacent to sites of synthesis, in addition to any putative actions on distant, projecting perikarya. To define the basis of local action, we used a sensitive nuclease protection assay to identify cells expressing the NGF gene in vivo and in vitro. In addition to neurons, glia from a variety of developing brain areas synthesized NGF mRNA, suggesting that CNS glia exhibit a generalized capacity to express the gene. NGF gene expression was associated with active glial growth. Stimulation of glial growth with serum increased NGF message twofold in culture. Moreover, rapidly growing, low density glial cultures exhibited dramatically higher levels of NGF mRNA than quiescent, confluent cultures. Optic nerve, which contains all three major types of glia, expressed the message in vivo during neonatal development. In contrast, expression was essentially undetectable in adult optic nerve. Transection, which induces rapid and transient glial proliferation, elicited transient, de novo appearance of NGF mRNA in the adult nerve. Our observations suggest that active glial growth is associated with expression of the NGF gene and raise the possibility that actively growing glia in the developing or injured brain regulates neuronal growth through the elaboration of NGF.
Time-lapse crystallography snapshots of a double-strand break repair polymerase in action

DNA polymerase (pol) μ is a DNA-dependent polymerase that incorporates nucleotides during gap-filling synthesis in the non-homologous end-joining pathway of double-strand break repair. Here we report time-lapse X-ray crystallography snapshots of catalytic events during gap-filling DNA synthesis by pol μ. Unique catalytic intermediates and active site conformational changes that underlie catalysis are uncovered, and a transient third (product) metal ion is observed in the product state. The product manganese coordinates phosphate oxygens of the inserted nucleotide and PPi. The product metal is not observed during DNA synthesis in the presence of magnesium. Kinetic analyses indicate that manganese increases the rate constant for deoxynucleoside 5′-triphosphate insertion compared to magnesium. The likely product stabilization role of the manganese product metal in pol μ is discussed. These observations provide insight on structural attributes of this X-family double-strand break repair polymerase that impact its biological function in genome maintenance. DNA polymerase (pol) μ functions in DNA double-strand break repair. Here the authors use time-lapse X-ray crystallography to capture the states of pol µ during the conversion from pre-catalytic to product complex and observe a third transiently bound metal ion in the product state.
Novel phenotype of 5p13.3-q11.2 duplication resulting from supernumerary marker chromosome 5: implications for management and genetic counseling.

Supernumerary marker chromosomes derived from chromosome 5 (SMC5) and 5p13 duplication syndrome are rare disorders, and phenotypic descriptions of patients are necessary to better define genotype-phenotype correlations for accurate, comprehensive genetic counseling. The purpose of this study is to highlight the unique findings of a patient with a 5p13.3-q11.2 duplication arising from a SMC5 and compare and contrast the phenotype with cases in the literature. We report on an adult male with a 22 Mb duplication of chromosome 5p13.3-q11.2 resulting from a small SMC5. The patient has a history of prenatal polyhydramnios, dysmorphic features, respiratory issues, talipes equinovarus, hypotonia, developmental delay, and autistic features. The patient also has novel features of aortic dilation, pectus excavatum, kyphoscoliosis, and skin striae, suggestive of a connective tissue disorder. Despite these features he did not meet clinical diagnostic criteria for a well-characterized connective tissue disorder. Additional molecular genetic testing for syndromic and non-syndromic aortic aneurysms was negative. Many of the patient’s features are consistent with individuals reported with 5p13 duplication syndrome and similar cases of SMC5, including polyhydramnios, macrocephaly, dolichocephaly, pre-auricular pits, arachnodactyly, respiratory problems, and developmental delays. It is unclear if the patient’s unique features of aortic dilation, pectus excavatum, kyphoscoliosis, and skin striae could be novel features of the SMC5 given its rarity and the few well-phenotyped adults in the literature. This report reviews the literature and provides additional phenotypic information to define the genotype-phenotype correlation of SMC5 and 5p13 duplication syndrome.
A Naturalistic Treatment for Panic Disorder

Although cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT) has repeatedly demonstrated treatment efficacy for panic disorder [1], establishing the empirical basis for psychodynamic psychotherapy (PD) remains important because CBT is not effective for all panic patients [2, 3]. Busch [4] argues persuasively that diversifying the number of empirically supported psychotherapeutic options available to panic patients is necessary to fully respond to the range of panic patients‘ clinical needs. As Busch et al. note, while highly effective for many individuals, CBT does not work for all panic patients [2, 3].
Virtual melting temperature: managing server load to minimize cooling overhead with phase change materials

As the power density and power consumption of large scale datacenters continue to grow, the challenges of removing heat from these datacenters and keeping them cool is an increasingly urgent and costly. With the largest datacenters now exceeding over 200 MW of power, the cooling systems that prevent overheating cost on the order of tens of millions of dollars. Prior work proposed to deploy phase change materials (PCM) and use Thermal Time Shifting (TTS) to reshape the thermal load of a datacenter by storing heat during peak hours of high utilization and releasing it during off hours when utilization is low, enabling a smaller cooling system to handle the same peak load. The peak cooling load reduction enabled by TTS is greatly beneficial, however TTS is a passive system that cannot handle many workload mixtures or adapt to changing load or environmental characteristics. In this work we propose VMT, a thermal aware job placement technique that adds an active, tunable component to enable greater control over datacenter thermal output. We propose two different job placement algorithms for VMT and perform a scale out study of VMT in a simulated server cluster. We provide analysis of the use cases and trade-offs of each algorithm, and show that VMT reduces peak cooling load by up to 12.8% to provide over two million dollars in cost savings when a smaller cooling system is installed, or allows for over 7,000 additional servers to be added in scenarios where TTS is ineffective.
Making my family proud: The unique contribution of familism pride to the psychological adjustment of Latinx emerging adults.

Objectives: Familism values serve to provide key cultural scripts in Latinx families, and these values have been associated with positive psychosocial outcomes for Latinx youth (Stein et al., 2014). Yet, how familism values intersect with the experience of positive emotions remains relatively unknown. In particular, familism pride may be an important positive emotion that links familism values to positive psychosocial outcomes. To fill this gap in the literature, the current study developed a measure of familism pride and examined its unique prediction to psychosocial outcomes. Method: Self-report survey data were collected from 2 samples of Latinx emerging adults who were part of a psychology subject pool at a comprehensive university in Los Angeles designated as an Hispanic-serving institution. Sample 1 (n = 352) was 72.2% women with a mean age of 18.9 years, whereas Sample 2 was 68.6% women with a mean age of 19.3 years. Results: Factor analyses supported that familism pride was distinct from familism values (familial support, obligation, reference, respeto). Familism pride was associated with fewer depressive symptoms and greater experience of joy when controlling for familism values in both samples. Conclusions: Our study underscores the importance of examining emotional processes in the study of familism and suggests a new dimension of familism that has not received research attention.
Development of sodium fluoride PET response criteria for solid tumours (NAFCIST) in a clinical trial of radium-223 in osteosarcoma: from RECIST to PERCIST to NAFCIST

Purpose The development of osteosarcoma therapeutics has been challenging, in part because of the lack of appropriate criteria to evaluate responses. We developed a novel criteria in a clinical trial of radium-223 dichloride (223RaCl2) for response assessment in osteosarcoma, NAFCIST (Na18F PET response Criteria in Solid Tumors). Experimental design Patients received one to six cycles of 223RaCl2, and cumulative doses varied from 6.84 MBq to 57.81 MBq. Molecular imaging with technetium-99m phosphonate scintigraphy, fluorine-18-fluorodeoxyglucose (18FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) or sodium fluoride-18 (Na18F) PET was used to characterise the disease. Correlation of biomarkers and survival was analysed with NAFCIST measure from Na18F PET. Results Of the 18 patients, 17 had bone lesions visible in at least one of the imaging studies. In four of seven patients with multiple skeletal lesions (>5), FDG PET and NaF PET studies could be compared. The skeletal tumour locations varied in our patient population: cranium=2, extremities=7, pelvis=10, spine=12 and thorax=9. The 18F-FDG PET and Na18F PET studies could be compared in all four patients who had multiple lung lesions (>5). Overall the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors response was seen in one patient, but four patients experienced mixed responses better defined by Na18F PET. Changes in NAFCIST were correlated with changes in bone alkaline phosphatase levels (r=0.54) and negatively with cumulative dose of 223RaCl2 (r=− 0.53). NAFCIST correlated with overall survival (p value of 0.037) while the PERCIST (PET Response Criteria in Solid Tumors) did not (p value of 0.19). Conclusions Our results indicate that Na18F PET should be further studied in osteosarcoma staging. NAFCIST may be a promising criteria for high-risk osteosarcoma response evaluation and correlates with survival. Further validation studies are needed.
Perioperative Telephone Encounters Should Be Included in the Relative Value Scale Update Committee Review of Time Spent on Total Hip and Knee Arthroplasty.

Abstract Background Providing care for patients undergoing hip and knee arthroplasty requires substantial effort beyond the actual replacement surgery to ensure a safe, clinical, and economically effective outcome. Recently, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has stated that the procedural codes for total hip (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are potentially misvalued and has asked for a review by the Relative Value Scale Update Committee (RUC). The purpose of this study is to quantify one of the additional work efforts associated with telephone encounters during the perioperative episode of care. Methods We retrospectively reviewed all 47,841 telephone calls from patients to our office from 2015 to 2017 in a consecutive series of 3309 patients who underwent TKA and 3651 patients who underwent THA. We recorded reasons for communication, amount of communication, and the caller identity for both 30 days preoperatively and 90 days postoperatively. We then used the RUC Building Block Method to calculate the preservice and postservice work included in a review of the time and intensity of the codes for THA and TKA. Results The average number of preoperative patient calls per patient was 2.31 for TKA and 2.44 for THA, and the average number of postoperative calls was 5.01 for TKA and 4.00 for THA. The most common reasons for patient calls were perioperative care instructions, medications, medical clearance, paperwork/insurance, and complications. Using the RUC-approved work relative value units (wRVUs) assigned to each telephone encounter, an additional 1.83 wRVUs for perioperative telephone encounters for TKA and 1.61 for THA should be assigned. Conclusions Providing patients with appropriate support during the arthroplasty episode of care requires substantial telephonic support, which should be acknowledged. As the RUC considers reviewing the time and intensity spent on perioperative care for patients undergoing THA and TKA, they should consider appropriately documenting the amount of work required for telephone communication.
The Shifting, Elusive, and Sometimes Contradictory Language of Disability—Insights from Keywords for Disability Studies

In the article “A Cross-Cultural, Neuroethics View on the Language of Disability” (Illes and Lou 2019), the authors pull from the field of neuroethics to offer a structural framework to a selection...
C# 2.0 for C++ and Java programmer: conference workshop

C# is a relatively new language often seen as a direct competitor for Java. Although C# has been strongly influenced by Java it has also been strongly influenced by C++ and is best viewed as a descendent of both C++ and Java. C++ is a mature language which is evolving slowly; Java and C# are evolving much faster and are borrowing freely from each other. Since C# is much newer than Java, C# design is somewhat leaner A C++ or Java programmer will find much of the syntax familiar and can quickly get started in C# but soon discovers that it is a different language which is interesting, has its own unique expressiveness, and is full of pleasant surprises.
Optimization and Control of a Z-Source, Ultrafast Mechanically Switched, High-Efficiency DC Circuit Breaker

A novel design of the Z-source circuit breaker topology is presented to minimize on -state losses of the protection device. An ultrafast mechanical switch is proposed to commutate the fault current and improve the controllability of the circuit breaker. Replacing the power thyristor in the Z-source circuit breaker and integrating an advanced control scheme reduces energy losses with a low-resistance mechanical contactor. The proposed design facilitates bidirectional current flow, enhances control capability for distributed energy resources, and improves ride-through capabilities during load transients. Z-source circuit breakers utilize an impedance network to create a forced current zero crossing in the event of a fault, allowing the inline thyristor to isolate the fault from the source through reverse bias. However, full load current flows through the thyristor, resulting in high loss and heat generation. The concept is validated, and a proper control scheme is developed for this circuit breaker through an analytical estimation model of the system dynamics during a fault. Simulation and modeling are performed in power systems computer aided design (PSCAD) and piecewise linear electrical circuit simulation (PLECS). Finally, an experimental laboratory prototype is tested to validate the analytical and simulation models and certify the control logic.
Internal state configures olfactory behavior and early sensory processing in Drosophila larva

Animals can respond differently to a sensory cue when in different states. Here, we show that certain odors repel well-fed Drosophila larvae but attract food-deprived larvae and how feeding state flexibly alters neural processing in an early olfactory circuit, the antennal lobe, to determine the behavioral valence of a sensory cue. Odor valence is assigned by a neuronal architecture that controls a switch between two separate projection neuron output pathways that mediate opposite behavioral responses. A uniglomerular projection neuron pathway mediates odor attraction whereas a multiglomerular projection neuron pathway mediates odor repulsion. The serotonergic CSD neuron in the antennal lobe is a critical regulator of this neuronal and behavioral switch. CSD selects an appropriate behavior by shifting patterns of serotonergic modulation and glutamatergic inhibition onto each output pathway. The antennal lobe is a decision-making circuit for innate behavioral responses that uses feeding state to determine an odor’s valence.
Meta-analysis of Intraprocedural Comparative Effectiveness of Vascular Plugs Vs Coils in Proximal Splenic Artery Embolization and Associated Patient Radiation Exposure.

Abstract Purpose To compare vascular plugs to coil embolization of the proximal splenic artery and evaluate differences in radiation exposure to the patients. Methods An electronic literature search was performed for relevant studies from January 2000 to July 2018 that compared the efficacy of vascular plugs vs coils in splenic artery embolization. Only studies that investigated coil or vascular plug use, without combination with other embolic agents, were included. Meta-analysis was performed using a fixed effects model approach with the inverse variance-weighted average method to determine pooled differences in time to vessel occlusion, procedure time, fluoroscopy time, total number of devices used, and radiation exposure. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I square statistic. Pooled outcomes were compared, and quality assessments were evaluated using the Newcastle Ottawa Scale. Results Eight studies met inclusion criteria. 81 patients were embolized with vascular plugs and 52 patients with coils only. The most common indication for splenic artery embolization was trauma. Time to vessel occlusion was shorter in the vascular plug group by 7.11 minutes (P = 0.003). Fluoroscopy time was shorter by 13.82 minutes in the vascular plug cohort, and these patients received less radiation (−439 mGy) compared to the coil group (P = 0.006 and P = 0.02, respectively). The number of devices was significantly fewer in the vascular plug group (−3.54; P Conclusion Our data supports the vascular plug is superior to coils for embolization of the proximal splenic artery with respect to occlusion time, fluoroscopy time, patient radiation exposure, and number occlusive devices used.
What causes the insight memory advantage

Prior research indicates that solutions accompanied by an Aha! experience are remembered better than those missing this feeling of epiphany. The question for the present studies was whether this insight memory advantage for problem solutions is modulated by the affective component of insight (the strong feelings that typically accompany the Aha! experience), or by the cognitive component (the restructuring or representational change that occurs during insightful problem solving). In both studies, participants viewed a set of magic trick videos to generate solutions for how each trick was done, and memory for the generated solutions was tested after a week delay. They also indicated the extent to which they experienced an Aha! moment at solution along with other perceptions of their experience. In the second study, they additionally rated the relevance of five action verbs for each trick (including one that implied the correct solution) multiple times during solution as a measure of restructuring the problem representation. The explanation for the insight memory advantage that was best supported by the results is that it is the joint consequence of finding correct solutions, the subjective feeling that one has found a correct solution (certainty), and experiencing an emotional pleasurable reaction during the problem solving process that all contribute to better memory for the solution. However, it did not seem to rely on having reached the solution via a sudden restructuring process.
Comparative outcome analysis of stable mildly elevated high sensitivity troponin T in patients presenting with chest pain. A single-center retrospective cohort study.

Abstract Background The ideal high-sensitivity troponin (hsTn) cutoff for identifying those at low risk of 30 days events is debated; however, the 99th percentile overall or gender-specific upper reference limit (URL) is most commonly used. The magnitude of risk and the best management strategy for those with low-level hsTn elevation hasn’t been extensively studied. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis including 4396 chest pain patients (542 with low-level hsTn elevation) who ruled out for myocardial infarction (MI), had a stable high-sensitivity troponin T (hsTnT) levels (defined as Results 30-day event rates were very low 0.1%, 0.6%, and 0.4% for hsTnT groups 1, 2, and 3 respectively (overall P = 0.041, for groups 2 & 3 interaction P = 0.74). 30-day all-cause mortality, as well as 1-year all-cause and cardiovascular mortalities, occurred more frequently in those with low-level hsTnT elevation as did 1-year composite ACE. Conclusion In conclusion, 30-day adverse event rates were very low in those with stable low-level hsTnT elevation who ruled out for MI and were discharged from the emergency department without further inpatient testing.
Effect of calcination temperature on neptunium dioxide microstructure and dissolution

Comprehensive thermodynamic understanding of nuclear materials is paramount for long-term management of legacy nuclear waste and commercial spent nuclear fuel. Actinide oxides (AnO2(s)) are ubiquitous materials throughout the nuclear fuel cycle, yet existing thermodynamic data has noticeable discrepancies, creating uncertainty in environmental prediction of the fate of nuclear materials. The microstructure of actinide oxides, particularly neptunium (Np) and plutonium (Pu), is rarely investigated using high resolution electron microscopy, but such features may illuminate why differences in solubility measurements persist. The aim of this study was to synthesize NpO2(s) at varying calcination temperatures, characterize the materials using high resolution electron microscopy, and perform batch solubility studies to measure total dissolved Np as a function of calcination temperature. The current work demonstrates the sizable differences in dissolution of NpO2(s) based on process conditions, such as the temperature at which the material is calcined and resultant particle size, and the need for more thorough evaluation of the microstructure of solid phases used to generate thermodynamic data of actinides.
Nonlinear Theoretical Aeroelastic Model of a Plate: Free to Fixed In-Plane Boundaries

It is well known that the nonlinear response of a beam or plate is sensitive to the assumptions made about the in-plane boundary constraints. This is true for any static or dynamic loading, and esp...
Simultaneous Condylar Reconstruction by Free Ramus Osteotomy Graft After Complete Condylectomy for Osteochondroma.

ABSTRACT Mandibular condyle osteochondromas cause morphologic and functional disturbances. Multiple options exist for reconstructing the condylar segment following complete condylectomy. In this series, we describe 3 cases of mandibular condyle osteochondroma treated with complete condylectomy, orthognathic surgery, and a novel free ramus osteotomy graft. This is the first report to reconstruct the temporomandibular joint using a free ramus graft. Through this single-staged approach we were able to avoid recurrence, preserve function, and restore facial balance without a separate donor site or an alloplastic implant.
Potential human inhalation exposure to soil contaminants in urban gardens on brownfields sites: A breath of fresh air?

Urban gardening has been experiencing increased popularity around the world. Many urban gardens are located on sites that may be contaminated by trace elements or organic compounds due to previous use. The three main exposure pathways to the human body for soil contaminants are (a) ingestion of soil directly, (b) consumption of produce containing or superficially contaminated with a contaminant, (c) and inhalation of soil dust. The first two modes have received much attention; however, the contribution of the inhalation route has not been investigated adequately. Two inhalation risk studies were carried out in urban gardens located in Kansas City, MO, by collecting dust while 25-m2 plots were rototilled. Microclimatic variables were monitored, and total inhalable dust mass was determined using a personal sampling train including a small pump and air filter. Soil lead (Pb) concentration was assessed at both sites. For Study 1, particle size distribution of collected particles was estimated through analysis of scanning electron microscope images of filters. Little dust was collected at either site. Most particles captured, however, appeared to be <4 μm in diameter. The amount of dust emitted was correlated with soil moisture. Tilling reduced soil aggregate size and blended soil, resulting in a more homogeneous distribution of Pb. Dust inhalation while tilling is likely not a major Pb exposure risk for gardeners, but given the preponderance of very small particles in what was captured, care should be taken to prevent dust from entering the respiratory system.
Mass flow rate effect on a rotating detonation combustor with an axial air injection

Changing the flow rate of reactants being injected into a rotating detonation combustor (RDC) results in interesting behavior of the system. Prior studies have found that an increase in mass flow rate gradually increases the detonation wave speed before splitting the wave into multiple fronts. The focus of this study is in understanding the physics of such behavior through a combination of experiments and numerical simulations. For this purpose, the axial air inlet-based RDC geometry is used. In the experiments, the wave velocity increased similar to prior studies. Corresponding full-scale simulations show that increase in mass flow rate by increasing pressure of the feed plenums shortens the recovery time of the injectors. This causes a more uniform fuel–air mixture to form prior to the arrival of the detonation wave. As a result, a more ideal detonation is observed, which leads to an increased wave velocity. Details of the detonation structure and variation with mass flow rate are analyzed. The presence and variation of the different deflagration zones in such non-premixed RDCs are also discussed.
Fractional models of Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equations for Turbulent flows

Its is a well known fact that Turbulence exhibits non-locality, however, modeling has largely received local treatment following the work of Prandl over mixing-length model. Thus, in this article we report our findings by formulating a non-local closure model for Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) equation using Fractional Calculus. Two model formulations are studied, namely one- and two-sided for Channel, Pipe and Couette flow, where the results shown have less 1% error. The motivation of two-sided model lies in recognising the fact that non-locality at a given spatial location is an aggregate of all directions. Furthermore, scaling laws and asymptotic relationship for Couette, Channel and Pipe flow is reported. It is to be noted that modeling in wall units, no additional coefficient appears, thus there models could be applied to complex flows with ease.
Targeting post-stroke walking automaticity with a propulsion-augmenting soft robotic exosuit: toward a biomechanical and neurophysiological approach to assistance prescription**Research supported by the American Heart Association (18IPA34170487), the National Institute of Health (1UL1TR001430), and the National Science Foundation Research Traineeship Program (NRT): Understanding the Brain (UtB): Neurophotonics DGE-1633516.

Human locomotor control ranges on a spectrum of automaticity, from highly automatic strategies that require minimal cognitive input, to attention-demanding executive-control strategies. The neural circuitry that facilitates automaticity is impaired by stroke, resulting in a compensatory shift toward executive-control, as well as reduced paretic propulsion and increased step-to-step variability. We have developed a soft robotic exosuit to augment paretic propulsion by providing paretic plantarflexor assistance during the propulsive phase of walking. For this preliminary study, we hypothesized that changes in walking automaticity would accompany changes in paretic propulsion. When plantarflexor assistance timings were tuned to reduce propulsion variability-a biomechanical measure of automaticity-a -14.7±2.5% variability reduction was accompanied by increased paretic propulsion (%Δ+6.4±6.3%) and prefrontal cortex activity (A oxygenated hemoglobin:+ 1.08E-04±1.05E-04 M mm). When plantarflexor assistance timings were instead tuned to reduce prefrontal cortex activity-a neurophysiological measure of automaticity-a -1.3E-05±1.1E-05 M mm decrease in oxygenated hemoglobin was accompanied by both increased paretic propulsion (%Δ:+4.4±8.1 %) and reduced propulsion variability (%Δ:-3.7±19.3%). Biomechanical and neurophysiological measures of automaticity are sensitive to exosuit assistance timing changes, but are differentially affected, highlighting the need for individualized tuning.
How Land-Use Regulation Undermines Affordable Housing

To varying degrees, most municipalities regulate urban development with zoning, density restrictions, and parking requirements. Such policies restrict the housing supply and urban density relative to what it could be in a free market. In this paper, we review the literature that measures the price effects of a variety of land-use regulations. Most of these studies find that both traditional land-use policies and newer policies, such as smart growth and inclusionary zoning, increase the cost of housing. And because housing takes up a larger share of the budgets of lower-income households relative to higher-income households, these policies are regressivea disproportionate share of their costs falls on the relatively poor.
Carrier Estimation Using Classic Spectral Estimation Techniques for the Proposed Demand Assignment Multiple Access Service

In any satellite communication, the Doppler shift associated with the satellite's position and velocity must be calculated in order to determine the carrier frequency. If the satellite state vector is unknown then some estimate must be formed of the Doppler-shifted carrier frequency. One elementary technique is to examine the signal spectrum and base the estimate on the dominant spectral component. If, however, the carrier is spread (as in most satellite communications) this technique may fail unless the chip rate-to-data rate ratio (processing gain) associated with the carrier is small. In this case, there may be enough spectral energy to allow peak detection against a noise background. In this thesis, we present a method to estimate the frequency (without knowledge of the Doppler shift) of a spread-spectrum carrier assuming a small processing gain and binary-phase shift keying (BPSK) modulation. Our method relies on an averaged discrete Fourier transform along with peak detection on spectral match filtered data. We provide theory and simulation results indicating the accuracy of this method. In addition, we will describe an all-digital hardware design based around a Motorola DSP56303 and high-speed A/D which implements this technique in real-time. The hardware design is to be used in NMSU's implementation of NASA's demand assignment, multiple access (DAMA) service.
Introduction to Big Data Analytics: Concepts, Methods, Techniques Minitrack

The Big Data Analytics minitrack has selected six papers focus on innovative applications of processing big data. These papers have moved beyond simple data mining to consider deep domain knowledge that can be used by decision makers to manage their organizations more effectively. Each of these papers solves a practical problem and demonstrates the utility of Big Data in helping organizations deliver better information their customers to improve their decision-making processes.
Normal Euler classes of knotted surfaces and triple points on projections

We present a new formula relating the normal Euler numbers of embedded surfaces in 4-space and the number of triple points on their projections into 3-space. This formula generalizes Banchoff’s formula between normal Euler numbers and branch points on the projections.