cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Symbolic debugging of embedded hardware and software

Symbolic debuggers are system-development tools that can accelerate the validation speed of behavioral specifications by allowing a user to interact with an executing code at the source level. In response to a user query, the debugger must retrieve and display the value of a source variable in a manner consistent with user expectations with respect to the source statement where execution has halted. However, when a behavioral specification has been optimized using transformations, values of variables may either be inaccessible in the runtime state or inconsistent with user expectations. We address the problem that pertains to the retrieval of source values for the globally optimized behavioral specifications. We present a new approach for symbolic debugging. The implementation of the new debugging approach poses several optimization tasks. We formulate the optimization tasks and develop heuristics to solve them. We demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach on a set of designs.
Clinical utility of sequence-based genotype compared with that derivable from genotyping arrays

Objective We investigated the common-disease relevant information obtained from sequencing compared with that reported from genotyping arrays. Materials and methods Using 187 publicly available individual human genomes, we constructed genomic disease risk summaries based on 55 common diseases with reported gene–disease associations in the research literature using two different risk models, one based on the product of likelihood ratios and the other on the allelic variant with the maximum associated disease risk. We also constructed risk profiles based on the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of these individuals that could be measured or imputed from two common genotyping array platforms. Results We show that the model risk predictions derived from sequencing differ substantially from those obtained from the SNPs measured on commercially available genotyping arrays for several different non-monogenic diseases, although high density genotyping arrays give identical results for many diseases. Conclusions Our approach may be used to compare the ability of different platforms to probe known genetic risks disease by disease.
Foaming in activated-sludge processes: an operator's overview

The formation of stable surface foams, which is associated with characteristic filamentous microorganisms, is a worldwide phenomenon on activated-sludge plants. In excess, it can create operating difficulties and may cause a violation of effluent consent conditions due to high concentrations of suspended solids and solids-related biochemical oxygen demand. Despite its universal occurrence, the reasons for foaming are not clearly understood, and control measures tend to be non-specific, hit-or-miss strategies. This paper presents an operator's perspective on (a) the current knowledge of foam-forming microorganisms, and (b) methods to control them.
El Niño–southern oscillation influences on the Mahaweli streamflow in Sri Lanka

Despite advances over the last two decades in the capacity to predict the evolution of the El Nioscillation (ENSO) phenomenon and advances in understanding of the relationship between ENSO and climate, there has been little use of climate predictions for water resources management in the tropics. As part of an effort to develop such a prediction scheme, the ENSO influences on streamflow and rainfall in the upper catchment of the Mahaweli river in Sri Lanka were investigated with correlation analysis, composite analysis and contingency tables. El Ni˜ no conditions were often associated with decreased annual flows and La Ni˜ na with increased flows. The relationship of streamflow and rainfall with the ENSO index of NINO3 contrasted between January to September and October to December. During El Ni˜ no episodes the streamflow declines from January to September, but from October to December there is no clear relationship. On the other hand, rainfall shows a clear increase from October to December and declines during January, February, March, July and August. The simultaneous correlations of NINO3 with the aggregate January to September streamflow (r =− 0.50), with January to September rainfall (r =− 0.44) and with October to December rainfall (r = 0.48) are all significant at the 99% level. The correlation between one-season-in-advance NINO3 with both January to September streamflow and October to December rainfall remained significant at the 99% level. This study demonstrates the potential of using ENSO-based predictors for a seasonal hydro-climatic prediction scheme in the Mahaweli basin. It shows the significant contrasts in ENSO influence on rainfall and streamflow due to various hydrological processes. It has demonstrated that the potential for prediction is improved by investigating ENSO influences for the appropriate season for the given river catchment. Copyright  2003 Royal Meteorological Society.
Bicycle Riding: Pedaling Made Possible Through Positive Behavioral Interventions

This study demonstrated how the tenets of positive behavior support could be used to teach an educational activity. Emphasis was placed on the implementation of practical strategies to minimize errors during instruction and maximize positive outcomes. A 9-year-old boy with Asperger syndrome served as the participant, and the skill targeted for development was bicycle riding. An eight-step task analysis based on a highly individualized approach was used for instructional purposes. A changing criterion design was used to demonstrate progressively the emergence of bicycle riding over a span of 64 sessions. The implications of selecting target skills based on the criteria of social values, the employment of practical teaching strategies, and scientific deduction are discussed.
Mutant huntingtin alters MAPK signaling pathways in PC12 and striatal cells: ERK1/2 protects against mutant huntingtin-associated toxicity

Huntington's disease (HD) is a devastating neurodegenerative disorder caused by an expanded polyglutamine (polyQ) tract within the huntingtin protein (Htt). Identifying the pathways that are altered in response to the mutant protein is crucial for understanding the cellular processes impacted by the disease as well as for the rational development of effective pharmacological interventions. Here, expression profiling of a cellular HD model identifies genes that implicate altered mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling. Targeted biochemical studies and pharmacological modulation of these MAPK pathways suggest that mutant Htt affects signaling at upstream points such that both ERK and JNK are activated. Modulation of the ERK pathway suggests that this pathway is associated with cell survival, whereas inhibition of JNK was found to effectively suppress pathogenesis. These studies suggest that pharmacological intervention in MAPK pathways, particularly at the level of ERK activation, may be an appropriate approach to HD therapy.
Genome mosaicism is conserved but not unique in Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates from the airways of young children with cystic fibrosis

Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains from the chronic lung infections of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients are phenotypically and genotypically diverse. Using strain PAO1 whole genome DNA microarrays, we assessed the genomic variation in P. aeruginosa strains isolated from young children with CF (6 months to 8 years of age) as well as from the environment. Eighty-nine to 97% of the PAO1 open reading frames were detected in 20 strains by microarray analysis, while subsets of 38 gene islands were absent or divergent. No specific pattern of genome mosaicism defined strains associated with CF. Many mosaic regions were distinguished by their low G + C content; their inclusion of phage related or pyocin genes; or by their linkage to a vgr gene or a tRNA gene. Microarray and phenotypic analysis of sequential isolates from individual patients revealed two deletions of greater than 100 kbp formed during evolution in the lung. The gene loss in these sequential isolates raises the possibility that acquisition of pyomelanin production and loss of pyoverdin uptake each may be of adaptive significance. Further characterization of P. aeruginosa diversity within the airways of individual CF patients may reveal common adaptations, perhaps mediated by gene loss, that suggest new opportunities for therapy.
Response of cat ventrolateral spinal axons to an itch-producing stimulus (cowhage).

A comparison was made between different categories of mechanically sensitive, ventrolateral spinal axons to assess their sensitivity to the itch-producing substance cowhage. Of 52 wide-dynamic-range (WDR) units, 17 had contralateral, 22 had ipsilateral, and 13 had bilateral receptive fields. Of the 5 low-threshold units, 1 had an ipsilateral receptive field and the remainder were bilateral. Among the high-threshold units, 10 were contralateral, 6 ipsilateral, and 5 bilateral. Although there was no evidence of cowhage sensitivity in either low- or high-threshold spinal axons, neurons with WDR properties were reactive to cowhage. WDR neurons were subclassified on the basis of their resting discharge pattern as having intermittent, continuous, or no resting discharge. WDR units with an intermittent pattern of resting discharge demonstrated a significant sensitivity to active cowhage and hence might be regarded as pruritogen-responsive spinal axons. Inactive cowhage was used as a control stimulus. In some WDR...
Designing an integrated review sheet for an electronic textbook

In this paper, we present findings and design decisions arisen while designing a review sheet within the confines of a pre-existing digital textbook, AdaptiveBook. Through user studies, we found that instructors and students cited a lack of both context and integration as the major problems in current high-tech teaching and studying tools. Because research on electronic books indicates that metaphors "reduce users' cognitive load when navigating and acquiring information" [1], our design aims to address the lack of context and integration by creating an intuitive review sheet metaphor while leveraging the power of a digital medium.
Task gender orientation perceptions by novice designers: implications for engineering design research, teaching and practice

This paper presents a study where (1) task gender orientation perceptions of novice designers, and (2) reasons underlying the perceived gender orientation were studied. Data collection included both quantitative and qualitative methods. Results indicate that indeed, design tasks may be seen as having a gender orientation due to perceptions regarding the design task domain. Further, if a task domain is deemed as favoring a gender, the reasons for doing so are related to the gender associations of institutions, objects, actions, and related knowledge. In terms of implications for future research, the current study suggests that the gender orientation of tasks can vary considerably and should be controlled for or taken into account when interpreting design performance results. In terms of implications for engineering design teaching, it is recommended that careful attention be given to the selection of applied projects in order to avoid domains with strong masculine or feminine overtones. Instead, the design problem should be framed to be gender neutral.
Broadband fiber optical parametric amplifiers

The bandwidth of a single-pump fiber optical parametric amplifier is governed by the even orders of fiber dispersion at the pump wavelength. The amplifier can exhibit gain over a wide wavelength range when operated near the fiber's zero-dispersion wavelength. It can also be used for broadband wavelength conversion,with gain. We have experimentally obtained gain of 10-18 dB as the signal wavelength was tuned over a 35-nm bandwidth near 1560 nm.
Cross-Reactivity of Neutralizing Antibodies among Malignant Catarrhal Fever Viruses.

Some members of the gamma herpesvirus genus Macavirus are maintained in nature as subclinical infections in well-adapted ungulate hosts. Transmission of these viruses to poorly adapted hosts, such as American bison and cattle, can result in the frequently fatal disease malignant catarrhal fever (MCF). Based on phylogenetic analysis, the MCF viruses (MCFV) cluster into two subgroups corresponding to the reservoir hosts’ subfamilies: Alcelaphinae/Hippotraginae and Caprinae. Antibody cross-reactivity among MCFVs has been demonstrated using techniques such as enzyme linked immunosorbent and immunofluorescence assays. However, minimal information is available as to whether virus neutralizing antibodies generated against one MCFV cross react with other members of the genus. This study tested the neutralizing activity of serum and plasma from select MCFV-infected reservoir hosts against alcelaphine herpesvirus 1 (AlHV-1) and ovine herpesvirus 2 (OvHV-2). Neutralizing antibody activity against AlHV-1 was detected in samples from infected hosts in the Alcelaphinae and Hippotraginae subfamilies, but not from hosts in the Caprinae subfamily. OvHV-2 neutralizing activity was demonstrated in samples from goats (Caprinae) but not from wildebeest (Alcelaphinae). These results show that neutralizing antibody cross reactivity is present to MCFVs within a virus subgroup but not between subgroups. This information is important for diagnosing infection with MCFVs and in the development of vaccines against MCF.
The Gold of the North

(1971). The Gold of the North. Archives of Environmental Health: An International Journal: Vol. 22, No. 5, pp. 619-624.
Additive effects of obesity and hypertension to limit venous volume

The presence of reduced venous distensibility in obesity might have important hemodynamic effects and could indirectly implicate a role for metabolic factors in vascular control, because loading conditions are different in arterial and in venous vessels. Forearm blood flow and venous volume were measured plethysmographically in 58 subjects, including lean and obese hypertensives and normotensives. Venous volume at 30 mmHg (VV30) was decreased by both obesity and hypertension. This coincided with evidence for better preservation of central blood and stroke volumes with upright posture in obese than in lean subjects. Furthermore, obese hypertensives had lower VV30 than either lean hypertensives or obese normotensives. Postischemic forearm vascular resistance, a surrogate marker for structural luminal cross-sectional area, percent body fat, and fasting insulin each correlated independently with VV30 (P < 0.05) in multivariate analysis. Because nonesterified fatty acid levels are elevated in obese hypertensives and may have potent vascular effects, dorsal hand vein responses to coinfusion of Intralipid 10% and heparin to raise fatty acids locally were obtained in normal volunteers. The local infusion of Intralipid with heparin reduced hand vein distensibility, whereas dextrose and heparin did not (11 +/- 3% vs. 0 +/- 2%, respectively, P < 0.01). This study indicates that obesity and mild hypertension each reduce venous distensibility and that the coexistence of both conditions produces an even greater impairment in venous capacitance. The reduced venous distensibility in obesity appears to reflect structural as well as functional factors and to have systemic hemodynamic effects.
Microstructural Variations in Commercial Carbon Blacks

Abstract Conventional and diffracted beam electron microscopy can be used to resolve the ultimate crystallite units in standard and heat treated carbon blacks. They are very sensitive in the detection of small differences in crystallite size and orientation. Combined with x-ray diffraction methods and conventional vulcanizate testing, high resolution electron microscopy appears to be a useful and practical means to study carbon black surface activity. All commercial blacks appear to conform in part to the Heckman and Harling concentric crystallite model. Surface activity appears to be related to the extent of this alignment; the less the tangential orientation of the graphite layer planes to the surface, the greater the surface activity. Heating carbon blacks in an inert atmosphere for varying times and temperatures (850 to 1400° C) causes a gradual depression of surface activity with increasing treatment severity, defined by increases in the size and concentric orientation of surface crystallites. At no ...
Steric Versus Electronic Effects in the Ligation Behavior of Trivalent Phosphorus Compounds: 59Co AND 31P NMR Spectroscopic Studies

Abstract Using NMR techniques, the role of electronic and steric influences in phosphorus(III) ester complexes of the type CoL6 3+ and AgLn + (where n = 1–4) are assessed.
Neutron Imaging of an Unbalanced Flat-Plate Oscillating Heat Pipe

The flat-plate oscillating heat pipe is a two-phase heat transfer device that consists of a hermetically-sealed, flat substrate with milled mini/micro channels along its surface that form a closed-loop. The start-up and heat transfer performance of a FP-OHP is dependent upon many parameters including: channel geometry, working fluid, filling ratio, orientation and heat input. The current experimental investigation focuses on the thermal performance and start-up behavior of a copper FP-OHP with non-equal channel lengths, i.e. ‘unbalanced’ design, and a copper FP-OHP with equal channel lengths, i.e. ‘balanced’ design, at different heat inputs. Using neutron radiography to see the working fluid directly inside each FPOHP, statistical assessments of the internal fluid dynamics were made. Both FP-OHPs were charged with water at a filling ratio of approximately 80% and each had bulk dimensions of 127 x 76.2 x 3.2 mm 3 consisting of 20 channel sections each having a square, 1.5 x 1.5 mm2 cross-section. The FP-OHPs were experimented in the vertical, bottom-heating orientation at cooling temperature of either 20oC or 60oC. Results indicate that the unbalanced design provides for a higher effective thermal conductivity and enhanced fluid circulation in the evaporator for both cooling temperatures investigated. The balanced design, however, began circulation at a lower heat input and provided for a higher maximum heat input than the unbalanced design.
Aryl trihydroxyborate salts: Thermally unstable species with unusual gelation abilities

A series of aryl trihydroxyborate salts were synthesized and found to form gels in benzene. The compounds were thermally unstable and readily underwent protodeboronation in solution and the solid state. Gelation could be induced without decomposition via sonication. Subsequent characterization studies revealed an unusual dependence of gel properties on alkyl chain length.
Incentive Programs at Campus Recreation Centers

Many colleges and universities today offer students, faculty, alumni, and community members access to on-campus recreation centers. These centers offer cardiovascular and weight-training equipment,...
Utility of Arden Syntax for Representation of Fuzzy Logic in Clinical Quality Measures.

Background Prior work has established that fuzzy logic is prevalent in clinical practice guidelines and that Arden Syntax is suitable for representing clinical quality measures (CQMs). Approved since then, Arden Syntax v2.9 (2012) has formal constructs for fuzzy logic even as new formalisms are proposed to represent quality logic. Objectives Determine the prevalence of fuzzy logic in CQMs and assess the utility of a contemporary version of Arden Syntax for representing them. Methods Linguistic variables were tabulated in the 329 Assessing Care of the Vulnerable Elderly (ACOVE-3) CQMs, and these logic statements were encoded in Arden Syntax. Results In a total of 392 CQMs, linguistic variables occurred in 30.6%, and Arden Syntax could be used to represent these formally. Conclusions Fuzzy logic occurs commonly in CQMs, and Arden Syntax offers particular utility for the representations of these constructs.
Optimally configuring a two-stage serial line supply chain under the guaranteed service model

Abstract Design-and-development buyers sourcing new supply chains and strategic sourcing analysts making outsourcing decisions for existing supply chains are in different organizations but share a common problem. Both determine whether an existing part should be replaced. Relative to the existing part, new candidates could be cheaper with longer leadtime, or more expensive with shorter leadtime. Furthermore, a longer leadtime part could be buffered with inventory and this could be cheaper than paying more for a shorter leadtime part. To derive analytical insights into the nature of this problem, we restrict our scope to a two-stage serial line supply chain. This restriction is consistent with sourcing analysts that consider sourcing a single part from different vendors and different transportation alternatives. The resulting two-stage supply chain configuration model jointly determines the chosen option and inventory stocking level at each stage to minimize cost of goods sold, pipeline stock cost and safety stock cost. We prove it is preferable to synchronize the supply chain by employing the same type of option, either low cost long leadtime or high cost short leadtime, at both stages. We prove that the selection threshold for high cost short lead time options is lowest at just the downstream stage, highest for just the upstream stage, and between these extremes if such a candidate is selected for both stages. If a part’s cost-time relationship follows a functional form, we establish conditions when it is optimal to choose the lowest cost, longest leadtime, option available.
Pediatric Laparoscopic Splenectomy

【Pediatric laparoscopic splenectomy has been gradually accepted as the surgical management of a various splenic disorders, particularly in hematologic diseases. We report our experience with 16 patients who underwent this procedure because of hematologic disorders during the past 3 and a half years at the Department of Surgery, St. Mary's Hospital, the Catholic University Medical College. The mean age was 10 years(range 6-16 years) and the mean spleen weight was 210 gm(range 85-500 g). The indication for splenectomy were hereditary spherocytosis(6 cases), idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura(8 cases), autoimmune hemolytic anemia(1 case), and idiopathic splenomegaly(1 case). All splenectomies were performed safely with mean estimated blood loss of 233 ml. Mean operative time and mean postoperative hospital stay were 157 min and 4.5 days, respectively. Postoperative pain, medication was needed in 3 cases, just one injection in immediate postoperative period. Diet was started on the second or third postoperative day. In conclusion, laparoscopic splenectomy in pediatric patients is a safe procedure, offering a small of abdominal scar, much less pain, a shorter hospital stay and car the lower postoperative morbidity.】
Experience-Dependent Dendritic Arbor Development

The architecture of dendritic arbors determines afferent inputs and dendritic integration. Aberrant dendrite development is predicted to lead to aberrant information processing and circuit output. This chapter will review experience-dependent mechanisms regulating dendritic arbor development and plasticity, focusing on work done in vivo. Dendrite arbor development is strongly regulated by activity-dependent mechanisms, which in many cases can be traced to mechanisms originating in synaptic development or function. As proteomic analysis provides a more complete inventory of synaptic proteins and genomic analysis identifies candidate proteins associated with neurodevelopmental disorders, it is becoming clear that synaptic proteins which regulate synaptogenesis, synaptic function, and synapse stability also regulate dendritic arbor development and brain circuit function.
A Pilot Study of the Chronology of Present Illness: Restructuring the HPI to Improve Physician Cognition and Communication

Patient history-taking is an essential clinical skill, with effects on diagnostic reasoning, patient–physician relationships, and more. We evaluated the impact of using a structured, timeline-based format, the Chronology of Present Illness (CPI), to guide the initial patient interaction. To determine the feasibility and impact of the CPI on the patient interview, written notes, and communication with other providers. Internal medicine residents used the CPI during a 2-week night-float rotation. For the first week, residents interviewed, documented, and presented patient histories according to their normal practices. They then attended a brief educational session describing the CPI, and were asked to use this method for new patient interviews, notes, and handoffs during the second week. Night and day teams evaluated the method using retrospective pre–post comparisons. Twenty-two internal medicine residents in their second or third postgraduate year. An educational dinner describing the format and potential benefits of using the CPI. Retrospective pre–post surveys on the efficiency, quality, and clarity of the patient interaction, written note, and verbal handoff, as well as open-ended comments. Respondents included night-float residents, day team residents, and attending physicians. All night-float residents responded, reporting significant improvements in written note, verbal sign-out, assessment and plan, patient interaction, and overall efficiency (p < 0.05). Day team residents (n = 76) also reported increased clarity in verbal sign-out and written note, improved efficiency, and improved preparedness for presenting the patient (p < 0.05). Attending physician ratings did not differ between groups. Resident ratings indicate that the CPI can improve key aspects of patient care, including the patient interview, note, and physician–physician communication. These results suggest that the method should be taught and implemented more frequently.
Techniques of Implantation of Fenestrated and Multibranched Stent Grafts for Visceral Artery Incorporation

Endovascular repair of thoracoabdominal and pararenal aortic aneurysms require incorporation of the visceral arteries with fenestrated and/or branched stent grafts. These devices have been widely used and with high rate of technical success and lower morbidity and mortality compared to open surgical repair. Techniques of implantation vary depending on physician preference. This chapter summarizes the key steps for successful implantation of the three most commonly utilized device configurations, including fenestrated stent grafts, multibranched stent grafts and mixed designs with any combination of fenestrations and branches. Adjunctive techniques such as staging procedures, use of renal guide catheters and preloaded catheters are also described.
Editorial for the Special Issue on Micro/Nano-Chip Electrokinetics

Micro/nanofluidics-based lab-on-a-chip devices have found extensive applications in the analysis of chemical and biological samples over the past two decades. Electrokinetics is the method of choice in these micro/nano-chips for transporting, manipulating and sensing various analyte species (e.g., ions, molecules, fluids and particles, etc.) [1,2].[...]
Optimum Process Parameters for Springback Reduction of Single Point Incrementally Formed Polycarbonate

Abstract Many industries and researchers are attempting to minimize manufacturing costs of forming low volume components. Single point incremental forming (SPIF) is used to form a single piece of material using a CNC mill, in which a tool path for the desired geometry is created to guide the tool in incremented steps to deform a thin sheet of material. Throughout this process, residual stresses accumulate; causing springback to occur after the fixture is no longer constraining the material. This research experiments with the effect of SPIF forming parameters on the springback of polycarbonate sheets. Springback reduction was also obtained by applying heat to the formed sheet. The parameters studied included rotational spindle speed, feed rate, step size, and heat. The spindle rotational speed and feed rate experiments show a decrease in springback; however, applying heat proved to be most effective when reducing springback.
Three‐dimensional printing of a low‐cost, high‐fidelity laryngeal dissection station

Microlaryngeal phonosurgery requires a significant amount of operative precision to obtain desired voice outcomes.1,2 Residents have traditionally developed these skills via intraoperative experience; however, with growing duty-hour restrictions and relatively limited case volume, it has become more difficult to achieve mastery of these super-specialized procedures through operative experience alone. In fact, the majority of otolaryngology–head and neck surgery residents believe their training in phonomicrosurgery would be enhanced by laboratory-based simulation sessions.3 Accordingly, several authors have described laryngeal dissection stations aimed at facilitating such simulations.2,4,5 All these have a role in increasing competence among trainees and in allowing for the instruction of phonosurgical technique. Within the realm of surgical simulation, there is tension between high-fidelity and low-fidelity models. High-fidelity models more closely mimic clinical phonosurgery in equipment and task, but they often have a large cost associated with their manufacture and are not always readily available, especially if several stations are needed (personal conversation with Dr. Dailey and Dr. Jiang regarding availability of their teaching station for purchase by the senior author, LMA).5,6 To solve these issues, lower cost models have been described utilizing commonly available materials; however, as described, this lower cost model requires use of a clinical laryngoscope, something not feasible in institutions that do not allow instrumentation to be shared between patient-care and teaching lab environments.7 Also, this low-cost model offers lower fidelity in the modeling of microlaryngeal surgery: rubber bands, bacitracin, and plastic wrap are used to simulate layers of the true vocal fold given that the system is not designed to hold an animal larynx. A laryngeal dissection station that was simultaneously high fidelity and low cost would solve this tension and improve the teaching of phonosurgery in a simulation setting. Ideally, this station would closely mimic the conditions of operative microlaryngoscopy in terms of dimensions, positioning, and stability of the laryngoscope; would allow for the use of animal larynges that make possible high-fidelity modeling of phonosurgery; would not require the use of a clinical laryngoscope from the operating room; and would be readily available for those in any programs who wished to use it.6,8 Here, we describe a laryngeal dissection station constructed with a 3-dimensional (3D) printed laryngoscope that fulfills these criteria.
Summary talk — SCGT15

In this brief talk, I will try to focus on the things that happened at the conference that seemed very important, but that I didn’t understand.
Two halide-containing cesium manganese vanadates: synthesis, characterization, and magnetic properties

Two new halide-containing cesium manganese vanadates have been synthesized by a high-temperature (580 °C) hydrothermal synthetic method from aqueous brine solutions. One compound, Cs3Mn(VO3)4Cl, (1) was prepared using a mixed cesium hydroxide/chloride mineralizer, and crystallizes in the polar noncentrosymmetric space group Cmm2, with a = 16.7820(8) A, b = 8.4765(4) A, c = 5.7867(3) A. This structure is built from sinusoidal zig-zag (VO3)n chains that run along the b-axis and are coordinated to Mn2+ containing (MnO4Cl) square-pyramidal units that are linked together to form layers. The cesium cations reside between the layers, but also coordinate to the chloride ion, forming a cesium chloride chain that also propagates along the b-axis. The other compound, Cs2Mn(VO3)3F, (2) crystallizes in space group Pbca with a = 7.4286(2) A, b = 15.0175(5) A, c = 19.6957(7) A, and was prepared using a cesium fluoride mineralizer. The structure is comprised of corner sharing octahedral Mn2+ chains, with trans fluoride ligands acting as bridging units, whose ends are capped by (VO3)n vanadate chains to form slabs. The cesium atoms reside between the manganese vanadate layers, and also play an integral part in the structure, forming a cesium fluoride chain that runs along the b-axis. Both compounds were characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, powder X-ray diffraction, and single-crystal Raman spectroscopy. Additionally, the magnetic properties of 2 were investigated. Above 50 K, it displays behavior typical of a low dimensional system with antiferromagnetic interactions, as to be expected for linear chains of manganese(ii) within the crystal structure.
Depth-Resolved Surface Thermophysical Property Measurement by Laser-Produced Plasmas

A new laser-based method for real-time in situ measurement of thermophysical properties of materials has been developed. It entails production by a high-power laser pulse of a plasma plume from the surface of a condensed-phase specimen and simultaneous measurement of a material's response to the excitation. The specimen may be a solid or in a molten state at high temperatures. It has been shown that the thermal diffusivity can be determined, for instance, from the mass loss due to laser excitation. In one implementation the mass loss is determined from the impulse imparted on the surface by the ablated matter which is measured by an impulse transducer. In this paper, we present a new spectroscopic method for measurement of the mass loss, facilitating in situ non-contact measurement of the thermal diffusivity for the first time. An implementation of this method is described, whereby the thermal diffusivity of a complex layered surface is determined as a function of depth with resolutions as small as 13 nm.
Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion Suture Model for Mice

This chapter introduces the procedure, assessment, application, limitations, and technical considerations of the popular focal brain ischemia model in mice, the middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) suture model. Preparation of the suture, surgical procedures, examination of neurological function, and infarct volume assessment are described in detail.
Validating Organizational Effectiveness: Exploring Criteria for Exemplary and Outstanding Local Conferences in the North American Division

ABSTRACT Organizations in various sectors of diverse domestic and global industries (profit and not-for-profit) (public or private) such as business, education, government, healthcare, military, religious, etc. operate in very competitive environments that require the highest levels of excellence in operational standards. Indicators of outstanding organizations (germane to a particular industry) may tend to use measurements such as an entity’s certified audit reports; competitive advantage; financial indicators, market share; growth, expansion and/or retention; profitability; shareholder investment returns; stakeholder engagement and customer satisfaction surveys. Benchmarks to achieve these standards may also be found in gold star instruments such as the Malcolm Baldridge Award, Good-to-Great Organizations and Industry Best Practices. The basis for this qualitative exploration was instigated by sentiments that Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) local conferences may also aspire to emulate standards of excellence that are expected and exemplified in other exemplary organizations. Three critical questions this study will address are: (1) What are possible criteria and standards of organizational excellence and effectiveness? (2) What comprises an organization’s effectiveness system? (3) What are the attributes of an effective and efficient organization? A qualitative design was utilized with data for this study selected, collected and analyzed (coding, patterns, trends and themes) from extensive open-ended questionnaires to targeted populations of NAD and Union conference CEOs (Chief Executive Officers/Presidents), CAOs (Chief Administrative Officers/Executive Secretaries) and CFOs (Chief Financial Officers/Treasures) N=30 throughout Canada and the United Stated of America (USA) with a participant response rate of N=13 or 43%. Discussion, Implications, Conclusion and Recommendations are also discussed.
What Neuromonitoring Changes Can Be Expected During Hip Arthroscopy in the Pediatric Population

Background:As its indications have evolved, hip arthroscopy is now performed more frequently in pediatric patients. However, despite this increase, there is a lack of evidence in the literature abo...
A Mixed Method Evaluation of a Culturally Adapted, Brief, Bullying Bystander Intervention for Middle School Students

The purpose of this mixed method study was to examine the appropriateness of a brief, bullying bystander intervention (STAC) adapted for a middle school in a low-income, rural community with a pred...
Opioid-related diagnoses and HIV, HCV and mental disorders: using Pennsylvania hospitalisation data to assess community-level relationships over space and time

Background We assessed the community-level spatiotemporal connexions between hospitalisations for common opioid comorbidities (HIV, hepatitis C (HCV) and mental disorders) and opioid-related hospitalisations in the current and previous year. Methods We used Bayesian hierarchical spatiotemporal Poisson regression with conditionally autoregressive spatial effects to assess counts of HCV-related, HIV-related and mental disorder–related hospitalisations at the ZIP code level from 2004 to 2014 in Pennsylvania. Models included rates of current-year and previous-year opioid-related hospitalisations as well as covariates measuring demographic and environmental characteristics. Results After adjusting for measures of demographic and environmental characteristics, current-year and previous-year opioid-related hospitalisations were associated with higher risk of HCV, HIV and mental disorders. The relative risks and 95% credible intervals for previous-year opioid-related hospitalisations were 1.092 (1.078 to 1.106) for HCV, 1.098 (1.068 to 1.126) for HIV and 1.020 (1.013 to 1.027) for mental disorders. Conclusion Previous-year opioid-related hospitalisations are connected to common comorbid conditions such as HCV, HIV and mental disorders, illustrating some of the broader health-related impacts of the opioid epidemic. Public health interventions focused on the opioid epidemic must consider individual community needs and comorbid diagnoses.
The Complexity of Creativity: "Les Demoiselles D'Avignon" as a Cognitive-Historical Laboratory.

As art historians have noted, Les Demoiselles d’Avignon (1907) occupies a very special place in the history of Western painting, both as the harbinger of 20th century modernism and as the progenito...
They came to toil: newspaper representations of Mexicans and immigrants in the great depression: by Melita M. Garza, Austin, University of Texas Press, 2018, pp. 227, $29.95 on Amazon, ISBN 978-1-4773-1405-0

This book provides a detailed account of news reporting by the three main newspapers in San Antonio, Texas on Mexican immigrants and repatriation during the Great Depression of 1929–1933. San Anton...
Comorbidities and depressive symptoms among older adults with asthma

Depression is associated with poor outcomes among older adults with asthma, and the presence of multiple comorbidities may magnify this relationship. We sought to determine the association of comor...
Inactivation of the Pta-AckA pathway impairs fitness of Bacillus anthracis during overflow metabolism.

ABSTRACT Under conditions of glucose excess, aerobically growing bacteria predominantly direct carbon flux toward acetate fermentation, a phenomenon known as overflow metabolism or the bacterial “Crabtree effect.” Numerous studies of the major acetate-generating pathway, the phosphotransacetylase (Pta)-acetate kinase (AckA) pathway, have revealed its important role in bacterial fitness through the control of central metabolism to sustain balanced growth and cellular homeostasis. In this work, we highlight the contribution of the Pta-AckA pathway to the fitness of the spore-forming bacterium Bacillus anthracis. We demonstrate that disruption of the Pta-AckA pathway causes drastic growth reduction in the mutants and alters the metabolic and energy status of the cells. Our results revealed that inactivation of the Pta-AckA pathway increases the glucose consumption rate, affects intracellular ATP, NAD+, and NADH levels, and leads to a metabolic block at the pyruvate and acetyl coenzyme A (acetyl-CoA) nodes. Consequently, accumulation of intracellular acetyl-CoA and pyruvate forces bacteria to direct carbon into the tricarboxylic acid and/or glyoxylate cycles, as well as fatty acid and poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate) biosynthesis pathways. Notably, the presence of phosphotransbutyrylase (Ptb) in B. anthracis partially compensates for the loss of Pta activity. Furthermore, overexpression of the ptb gene not only eliminates the negative impact of the pta mutation on B. anthracis fitness but also restores normal growth in the pta mutant of the non-butyrate-producing bacterium Staphylococcus aureus. Taken together, the results of this study demonstrate the importance of the Pta-AckA pathway for B. anthracis fitness by revealing its critical contribution to the maintenance of metabolic homeostasis during aerobic growth under conditions of carbon overflow. IMPORTANCEB. anthracis, the etiological agent of anthrax, is a highly pathogenic, spore-forming bacterium that causes acute, life-threatening disease in both humans and livestock. A greater understanding of the metabolic determinants governing the fitness of B. anthracis is essential for the development of successful therapeutic and vaccination strategies aimed at lessening the potential impact of this important biodefense pathogen. This study is the first to demonstrate the vital role of the Pta-AckA pathway in preserving energy and metabolic homeostasis in B. anthracis under conditions of carbon overflow, thus highlighting this pathway as a potential therapeutic target for drug discovery. Overall, the results of this study provide important insights into the metabolic processes and requirements driving rapid B. anthracis proliferation during vegetative growth.
Cryptosporidiosis in Calves

Cryptosporidium is a protozoan parasite of the suborder Eimeriorina which inhabits the microvillous border of intestinal enterocytes of calves, lambsand other animals and which has a life cycle pattern similar to that of other coccidia. Cryptosporidia have been recognized histologically in intestinal sections and by Giemsastained ileal and fecal smears, in field outbreaks of calf diarrhea. Recently, fecal flotation was used to detect oocysts in feces. They most often are in the presence of other enteric pathogens but some recent reports have attributed outbreaks solely to cryptosporidia
Imaging Patterns of Pneumonia

Abstract Imaging findings of pneumonia are diverse, with frequent overlap between the various infectious etiologies of pneumonia, as well as various other disease conditions, including inflammatory conditions, vasculitis, and malignancy. In the appropriate clinical context, a number of imaging findings and the patterns that they form on imaging may provide clues that enable radiologists and clinicians to narrow the differential diagnostic considerations. Although a definite diagnosis can rarely be solicited based on imaging findings alone, the combination of clinical, imaging, and laboratory findings are usually sufficient for accurate diagnosis and management decisions. It is important for radiologists to recognize the wide variety of imaging patterns that occur with different causes of pneumonia, and recognize specific imaging signs of certain infections when present, thereby facilitating diagnosis and optimizing patient care.
Life In The Temperate Zone

I enjoy thinking, though in a dilettantish way and in small doses. For me, thinking is like solitaire, except that I dislike taking its rules seriously. In this I am probably typical of my generation and socio-political co ordinates. Of course, it would be a vast encouragement if rigorous think ing could bring one to the truth, but I do not really believe it. In my ex perience, belief operates along a line virtually parallel to that of thought, and what is meant by truth is a matter of belief rather than a product of thinking. These days, moreover, belief is a matter of feeling, even of mood. People say "I feel that" more frequently than "I think that" or even "I believe." It is nicely irresponsible of them, noncommittal. Not credo, but sento.
Practicing School Consultants Can Empirically Validate Interventions

ABSTRACT The purpose of this manuscript is to describe and demonstrate how practicing school psychologists who are serving as consultants can empirically validate interventions using the non-concurrent multiple-baseline across-subjects (Non-Con M-B A-S) design. Over the course of a school year, three teachers, from different elementary schools, each referred a student for behavioral consultation. In each case, the target problem was insufficient journal writing, and the teacher and consultant developed interventions consisting of goal setting, self-monitoring, self-graphing, and reinforcement. Data from the three behavioral consultation cases were combined to form a Non-Con M-B A-S design. Results showed immediate and sustained increases in students' journal writing after the intervention was implemented. Discussion focuses on applied and experimental strengths and limitations associated with practicing school consultants' use of the Non-Con M-B A-S design.
Bayes empirical Bayes estimation for discrete exponential families

Bayes-empiric Bayes estimation of the parameter of certain one parameter discrete exponential families based on orthogonal poly- nomials on an interval (a, b) is introduced. The resulting estimator is shown to be asymptotically optimal. The application of this method to three special distributions, the binomial, Poisson and negative binomial, is discussed.
Geriatrics in Brazil: A Big Country with Big Opportunities

Brazil has approximately 180 million inhabitants, of whom 15.2 million are aged 60 and older and 1.9 million are aged 80 and older. By 2025, the Brazilian elderly population is expected to grow to more than 32 million. Brazil has many problems related to its geographic and population size. Great distances between major cities, marked cultural and racial heterogeneity between the various geographic regions, high poverty levels, and decreasing family size all combine to put pressure on the medical and social services that can be made available to the elder population. Less than 500 Brazilian physicians are certified as geriatricians, translating into one geriatrician for every 37,000 elderly Brazilians. Beside 15 geriatric medicine residencies a larger number of fellowship programs exist, and these programs are in high demand, with more than 20 candidates per position, indicating new opportunities for growth in elder care. In addition, geriatric initiatives such as the annual elder vaccination program and the elder statute, recently approved by the Brazilian Congress, indicate that geriatric care in Brazil is entering a new era of growth and development. Although the challenges remain great, there are opportunities for Brazilian geriatrics and gerontology.
Cytidine 3',5'-monophosphate (cyclic CMP). I. Isolation from extracts of leukemia L-1210 Cells.

Summary A compound isolated from the acid soluble fraction of intact leukemia L-1210 cells and from hot water extracts of disrupted L-1210 cells, has been identified as 3′, 5′-cyclic CMP by comparison with the authentic compound with respect to the following characteristics: Rf values in eight solvent systems; electrophoretic mobility in three buffers; uv spectra, mass spectrum; acid hydrolysis and treatment of the products with appropriate enzymes; and effect on initiation of L-1210 cell growth.