cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
TurbSim: Reliability-based wind turbine simulator

Wind turbine farms are an effective generator of electricity in windy parts of the world, with prices progressing to levels competitive with other sources. Choosing the correct turbine for a given installation requires significant engineering and the current trend leads towards groups of large horizontal axis turbines. Unfortunately, large wind turbines have to contend with large forces and other sources of failure. With the new push to move generation farms offshore where they are less accessible, the issue of reliability becomes more critical. This work investigates the impact of reliability in a life-cycle analysis simulation of a theoretical wind farm in Massachusetts based upon reliability information from a number of academic sources. The simulator, TurbSim, is designed with significant modularity to enable reliability simulation of any turbine with available wind information. Our simulation of a turbine indicated that reliability makes a small but noticeable impact of 1.24% in its output.
Analysis and Design of Energy Harvesting Wireless Sensor Networks with Linear Topology

An energy harvesting sensor network with a linear topology is investigated. The probability of packet loss in the network due to lack of energy in the nodes is derived. Based on this result, a near-optimal design for sizing the storage and the harvesting components of sensors is obtained. A more practical design guideline assuming identical sensors is also provided. Simulations validate the analysis and demonstrate the near optimal performance of the proposed theoretical designs.
GRUVe: a methodology for complex event pattern life cycle management

With the rising importance of recognizing a complex situation of interest near real-time, many industrial applications have adopted Complex Event Processing as their backbone. In order to remain useful it is important that a Complex Event Processing system evolves according to the changes in its business environment. However, today's management tasks in a Complex Event Processing system related to the management of complex event patterns are performed purely manually without any systematic methodology. This can be time consuming and error-prone. In this paper we present a methodology and an implementation for the complex event pattern life cycle management. The overall goal is the efficient generation, maintenance and evolution of complex event patterns. Our approach is based on a semantic representation of events and complex event patterns combined with complex event pattern execution statistics. This representation enables an improved definition of relationships between patterns using semantic descriptions of patterns and events.
Complex role of the vitamin D receptor and its ligand in adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 cells.

The vitamin D receptor (VDR) and its ligand 1,25-OH2-VD3 (calcitriol) play an essential role in mineral homeostasis in mammals. Interestingly, the VDR is expressed very early in adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 cells, suggesting that the VDR signaling pathway may play a role in adipocyte biology and function. Indeed, it has been known for a number of years that calcitriol is a potent inhibitor of adipogenesis in this model but with no clear mechanism identified. In this study, we have further defined the molecular mechanism by which the unliganded VDR and calcitriol-liganded VDR regulate adipogenesis. In the presence of calcitriol, the VDR blocks adipogenesis by down-regulating both C/EBPβ mRNA expression and C/EBPβ nuclear protein levels at a critical stage of differentiation. In addition, calcitriol allows for the up-regulation of the recently described C/EBPβ corerepressor, ETO, which would further inhibit the action of any remaining C/EBPβ, whose action is required for adipogenesis. In contrast, in the absence of calcitriol, the unliganded VDR appears necessary for lipid accumulation, since knock-down of the VDR using siRNA both delays and prevents this process. Taken together, these data support the notion that the intracellular concentrations of calcitriol can play an important role in either promoting or inhibiting adipogenesis via the VDR and the transcriptional pathways that it targets. Further examination of this hypothesis in vivo may shed new light on the biology of adipogenesis.
Dehydration in Infancy: Hospital Treatment

Dehydration of a degree severe enough to require intravenous replacement of water and electrolytes indicates (1) depletion of extracellular fluid sodium and water to such an extent that reduction of plasma volume results or (2) distortion of the composition of extracellular fluid with consequent disturbance of physiologic function. Such distortion may be marked hypernatremia, severe depletion of extracellular bicarbonate, or disturbances of potassium concentration resulting in either hyperkalemia or hypokalemia. In addition, hypocalcemia or hypomagnesemia may require specific replacement of these ions. EXTRACELLULAR FLUID DEPLETION WITH HYPOVOLEMIA The most important cause of extracellular fluid depletion in terms of frequency is loss of gastrointestinal secretions through either diarrhea or vomiting. In persons with lower intestinal obstruction, sequestration of gastrointestinal secretions in dilated loops of intestine may be sufficient to cause dehydration in the absence of vomiting. In infants with diarrhea, the onset of vomiting usually is an indication for intravenous replacement of electrolyte and water deficits. Oliguria is also an important item of information, indicating that dehydration is severe enough to require parenteral fluids. It has been estimated that hypovolemia and reduced glomerular filtration with oliguria results when about one third of extracellular fluid volume has been lost. In an infant, the normal extracellular fluid volume is 25% of body weight; therefore, a loss of 8% of body weight as extracellular fluid would result in the manifestation of severe dehydration with reduction of plasma volume.
Creativity and Constraints: Exploring the Role of Constraints in the Creative Processes of Research and Development Teams:

Research on creativity in organizations has revealed a variety of important paradoxes that seem fundamental to the nature of creativity itself. One such paradox is the tension between freedom and constraint in the creative process. Where some theorists have described the ideal creative process as unstructured, open-ended, and free of external limitations, others have found that creative individuals and teams can benefit from constraints. The purpose of this study is to make sense of this tension in the literature by investigating the ways in which constraints both inhibit and enhance work team creativity. Based on inductive field research with four research and development teams in a multinational corporation known for innovation, this study addresses the research questions: (a) What are the key constraints experienced by R&D teams and what impact do these have on team creativity?, and (b) Under what conditions do constraints inhibit or enhance R&D team creativity? This research uncovered a variety of sal...
Sally: A 12-Year-Old Who has Reactive Attachment Disorder

Sally is a 12-year-old biracial (African-American/white) child. She is tall and lanky with very neat cornrows. Her adoptive parents in conjunction with her adoption social worker referred her for services. Sally seems comfortable living in her adoptive home, with her African-American father, her white mother, and her younger biracial biological sibling. Sally has been in the home for just over two years and her adoption was legally finalized eight months ago. She interacts smoothly with the family but her parents say that “something’s missing.” Sally does not turn to her parents for comfort or guidance. Her parents have offered considerable daily life structure to help her become more connected, but she does not seem to look for their care and support. They fear she will turn to “just anyone” and as a near teenager this could mean others might take advantage of her. “She doesn’t think at all about her safety.” From the parent’s perspective, it is difficult “to get so little response” from Sally, though they are quite aware they are “in it for the long haul.” “We are committed to her.” They find it difficult to understand her nonverbal cues and, even after they encourage her to talk, Sally seems puzzled about her feelings and needs.
YKL‐40/CHI3L1 drives inflammation on the road of tumor progression

Inflammation plays a vital role at different stages of tumor progression. The development of tumors is affected by inflammatory mediators produced by the tumor and the host. YKL-40/chitinase-3-like-1 protein is often up-regulated in inflammation-associated diseases. With the use of chronic inflammatory disease systems, we describe the role of YKL-40/chitinase-3-like-1 protein in enhancing the inflammatory response and its implications in tumorigenesis. We also discuss how pre-existing inflammation enhances tumor growth and metastasis. In this mini-review, we highlight the effect of YKL-40/chitinase-3-like-1 protein-associated inflammation in promoting tumor progression.
Abstract 664: The Coronary Heart Disease--Associated Transcription Factor TCF21 Regulates Disease-Related Genes and May Contribute to the Migration of SMC Progenitors to the Fibrous Cap

Introduction: Recent genome-wide association studies have identified a number of genes that contribute to the risk for coronary heart disease, including TCF21, a bHLH transcription factor believed to serve a critical role in the differentiation of epicardial progenitor cells that give rise to coronary smooth muscle. Methods and Results: Results of immunolocalization and in situ hybridization studies showed that TCF21 is not expressed in medial smooth muscle cells (SMC) of adult human coronary arteries but primarily within the adventitia and within cells of unknown origin in atherosclerotic lesions. LacZ reporter animal studies with ApoE null background showed a shift in Tcf21 expression from adventitial and medial cells to the neointima, notably into the area below and within the forming fibrous cap, suggesting that Tcf21 expressing cells migrate into the forming atherosclerotic lesion. To investigate disease-related functions of TCF21 in SMCs, knockdown and overexpression studies were performed in human coronary artery smooth muscle cells, revealing an effect on migration, proliferation and SMC marker gene expression. Genome-wide RNA-seq studies in these cells with siRNA treatment identified putative TCF21 downstream genes and pathways involved in vascular development as well as atherosclerosis. Supporting ChIP-seq data suggests that these - as over half of all differentially expressed genes - are direct transcriptional targets. To elucidate the behavior of Tcf21 expressing cells in the development of disease lesions, we are employing an in vivo Tcf21 lineage tracing model. Preliminary data from these studies suggests that Tcf21 expressing cells give rise to fibrous cap SMCs, and ongoing studies are aimed at the further characterization of molecular pathways that are active in these Tcf21 expressing cells. Conclusions: The gene regulatory and expression profile of Tcf21 during disease progression strongly implies a key role in Coronary Heart Disease. Tcf21 is likely to play a role in the migration of SMC progenitors from the adventitia into the forming atherosclerotic plaque. As a source of differentiated SMCs of the fibrous cap Tcf21 may therefore promote plaque stability and protect from lesion rupture.
LIQUID CHROMATOGRAPHY | Affinity Chromatography

Affinity chromatography is a liquid chromatographic method in which a biological agent or biomimetic ligand is used for the selective retention of complementary compounds. This article presents an overview of the basic principles of this method, including the common elution formats, affinity ligands, supports and immobilization methods that are used in this technique. In addition, various applications of affinity chromatography are discussed. These applications range from preparative work to analytical applications and biophysical measurements. Various types of affinity chromatography are briefly described, such as those that use antibodies, lectins, immobilized metal ions, or dyes as binding agents.
Loose Couplings

Rigid designs are often brittle under stress; loosely coupled systems, on the other hand, can withstand changing conditions and stresses more effectively. Such designs are often more adaptable. Currency exchange rates, information hiding, and the design of earthquake-resistant buildings all share this loose coupling property.
Supercapacitors utilizing electrodes derived from polyacrylonitrile fibers incorporating tetramethylammonium oxalate as a porogen

Thermally sensitive tetramethylammonium oxalate (TMAO) is incorporated as an in situ porogen into freestanding nonwoven nanofibers of polyacrylonitrile (PAN) produced by electrospinning. Supercapacitor electrode materials are prepared by a series of thermal treatments on these fibers, including stabilization followed by a single step carbonization and CO2 activation. The specific surface areas of the resultant carbon nanofibers (CNFs) are controlled by varying the amounts of TMAO in the precursor fibers. The electrochemical properties of the carbon nanofibers are characterized by cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge–discharge tests. The highest surface area (2663 m2 g−1) and best electrochemical performance are obtained from PAN containing 0.1 wt% of TMAO (T10), which gives a maximum specific capacitance of 140 F g−1 at a scan rate of 10 mV s−1 in comparison to CNFs from PAN alone, which yielded only 90 F g−1. At a discharge current density of 1 A g−1, the obtained energy and power densities are 68 Wh kg−1 and 1.7 W kg−1, respectively, with capacitance retention of 80% after 1000 cycles.
Terms of Trade and Economic Development

The present essay tries to elucidate various connections between the terms of trade and economic development. It utilizes existing statistical and other factual material, but it does not present any new empirical facts nor does it contain new computations. The paper is, to a large extent, critical and polemical. That is to say, it tries to disprove certain widely held notions, historical generalizations, as well as policy conclusions which have been derived from such generalizations. No originality is claimed for these critical analyses, but no apologies are offered either. It is hoped that a systematic stocktaking of existing facts and arguments may clear the air and lead to useful results. In the first section, I discuss some general propositions of international trade theory concerning the terms of trade in their relation to economic welfare. In the succeeding sections, some applications of these propositions to the problems of economic development are made.
Building the Swiss army smartphone

In this installment, we describe the smartphone we would like vendors to build by borrowing our favorite features from existing devices, and a few functionalities not yet available. Questions or comments should be sent toBrent I. Fox (bfox@su.edu) or Bill G. Felkey (felkebg@auburn.edu). Brent's address is Shenandoah University, Bernard J. Dunn School of Pharmacy, Center for Pharmacy Informatics, 1775 N. Sector Court, Winchester, VA, 22601. Bill's address is Auburn University Harrison School of Pharmacy, Pharmacy Care Systems, 128 Miller Hall, Auburn University, AL, 36849.
Ultrasonic Scattering from a Crack which Emanates from a Rivet Hole

In this article we present the exact solution, to first order of the interacting field, of the following canonical problem. We consider the scattering system consisting of an isotropic elastic medium containing an infinite cylindrical void (= hole), from which emanates a half-penny-shaped crack. The crack lies in a plane containing the axis of the cylindrical void, also the crack intersects the void at its own axis of symmetry. In the paragraph below we define what is meant by obtaining the solution ‘to first order’.
Improved Krill Herd Algorithm with neighborhood distance concept for numerical optimization

Krill herd (KH) is a new recent nature inspired stochastic search algorithm. The fitness function of this algorithm depends upon the minimum distance of each krill from food and the algorithms aims to increase the population diversity around the food cluster. In this paper, the improved krill herd algorithm is employed to solve the optimization problems. The neighborhood distance concept is introduced along with genetic reproduction mechanism in basic KH Algorithm. The results of the three Krill herd algorithms are compared using twelve high dimensional benchmark functions. Along with balancing of exploration and exploitation, computational time of the algorithm is reduced.
Price of anarchy and an approximation algorithm for the binary-preference capacitated selfish replication game☆

Abstract We consider the capacitated selfish replication (CSR) game with binary preferences, over general undirected networks. We study the price of anarchy of such games, and show that it is bounded above by 3. We develop a quasi-polynomial algorithm O ( n 2 + ln D ) , where n is the number of players and D is the diameter of the network, which can find, in a distributed manner, an allocation profile that is within a constant factor of the optimal allocation, and hence of any pure-strategy Nash equilibrium (NE) of the game. Proof of this result uses a novel potential function. We further show that when the underlying network has a tree structure, every globally optimal allocation is an NE, which can be reached in only linear time. We formulate the optimal solutions and NE points of the CSR game using integer linear programs. Finally, we introduce the LCSR game as a localized version of the CSR game, wherein the actions of the players are restricted to only their close neighborhoods.
Software defined radio for stepped-frequency, ground-penetrating radar

Software defined radio (SDR) is a rapidly developing technology that implements signal processing components partially or completely in software. In this paper, SDR's potential as a platform for ground-penetrating radar (GPR) is explored. The stepped-frequency radar method is implemented using off-the-shelf SDR hardware and open-source software. SDR is typically designed for communications applications, so special consideration is necessary for remote sensing. Precisely timed commands achieve RF phase coherence as well as digital sample synchronization. A multi-tone digital signal takes advantage of instantaneous bandwidth, and a sequential tuning routine expands effective bandwidth to cover the 500–5000 MHz band. Initial design challenges are weighed against potential advantages of design flexibility and hardware versatility.
Clinical Presentations and Diagnosis

Carpal tunnel syndrome has some characteristic “typical” presentations in terms of the history of the disorder and findings that can be obtained by inspection and physical examination. This chapter reviews the definition of carpal tunnel syndrome, its incidence, and typical presentations as they relate to the etiology of this disorder. A complete upper extremity evaluation is recommended, and a simple differential diagnosis is featured. Many conditions in the upper limb can “mimic” some of the features of carpal tunnel syndrome, and it is important to distinguish among these. Associated risk factors in terms of the condition and its presentation are reviewed. In obtaining a thorough history, some key factors in terms of who, how, what, when, and where are provided. Common patterns and progressions are discussed. In the physical examination, inspection and a thorough upper extremity exam including the neck and shoulder girdle for proximal nerve compression and “double crush” are reviewed. Images of the most commonly used provocative tests are provided, and their efficacy is discussed. The full range of presentations, typical and atypical, and how the clinician can use skillful history taking coupled with a broad general neck-to-fingertip exam and appropriate specialized tests to establish the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome will be reviewed.
Optical Detection of Degraded Therapeutic Proteins

The quality of therapeutic proteins such as hormones, subunit and conjugate vaccines, and antibodies is critical to the safety and efficacy of modern medicine. Identifying malformed proteins at the point-of-care can prevent adverse immune reactions in patients; this is of special concern when there is an insecure supply chain resulting in the delivery of degraded, or even counterfeit, drug product. Identification of degraded protein, for example human growth hormone, is demonstrated by applying automated anomaly detection algorithms. Detection of the degraded protein differs from previous applications of machine-learning and classification to spectral analysis: only example spectra of genuine, high-quality drug products are used to construct the classifier. The algorithm is tested on Raman spectra acquired on protein dilutions typical of formulated drug product and at sample volumes of 25 µL, below the typical overfill (waste) volumes present in vials of injectable drug product. The algorithm is demonstrated to correctly classify anomalous recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) with 92% sensitivity and 98% specificity even when the algorithm has only previously encountered high-quality drug product.
Tents and interpolating sequences in the unit ball

A sufficient condition is given to make a sequence of points interpolating for H∞(Bn). The methods are elementary: construction of the P. Beurling functions. This can be used to prove the sharpness of the exponent of Varopoulos’s necessary condition for interpolation. The result is also compared with Berndtsson’s recent sufficient condition, in conjunction with which it gives a slightly improved theorem.
ESR Observation of W5+ and Zr3+ States in Pt/WOx/ZrO2 Catalysts

Electron spin resonance (ESR) studies of Pt/WO x /ZrO2 catalysts over the temperature range of 5–330 K are reported. Two sets of ESR signals, one with g ⊥=1.98 and g ‖=1.96 and the other with g x =1.39, g y =1.70 and g z =1.54 are identified as intrinsic signals from the W5+ and Zr3+ states, respectively, formed in the sample. These signals are absent in samples without Pt. Studies on samples annealed at 773 K showed possible electron transfer between the W5+ and Zr3+ states in which the concentration of one state increases at the expense of the other.
The Tryptophan Load Test as an Index of Vitamin B-6 Nutrition

The amino acid tryptophan was first isolated as the chromogenic substance in tryptic digests of proteins (1). Since that time, naturally occurring L-tryptophan has been shown to be one of the indispensable amino acids having a number of important biological functions.
Low Energy Positron and Positronium Diffraction

Although this workshop is primarily concerned with positron scattering (and annihilation) with individual atoms in the gaseous state, it is clear that in order to understand the scattering of positrons and positronium Ps from solid surfaces one must often employ concepts directly related to the problem of scattering in gases. In the case of a monolayer of atoms (or molecules) physisorbed to a surface, the physisorbed layer can be treated accurately as a two dimensional gas of weakly perturbed atoms.l Elastic scattering, for example, of positrons and Ps from such an adsorbed layer would then indirectly contain information about the scattering from the individual adsorbed atoms. This information is of course complicated by the multiple scattering of the incident particle wavefunction by the adsorbed atoms and the atoms of the solid substrate. However if there is two-dimensional periodicity in the adsorbed layer (usually as a consequence of the crystal symmetry of the substrate), the multiple scattering calculations of the scattering intensity are significantly simplified.2,3 Because of the weakness of the van der Waals’ image force responsible for the physisorbtion bond, it is difficult to produce an ordered absorbed layer.
The Structure of an Elementary Microcomputer

We define an elementary microcomputer as the assembly incorporating a microprocessor, ROM(s), RAM(s), and means to accomplish inputs and outputs. These components are connected through data and address buses. The elementary microcomputer can perform useful calculations, make decisions, and control small systems. The elementary microcomputer is representative of a small unit dedicated to controlling an individual machine or a small number of processes. Such a dedicated microcomputer would be assembled, programmed, and even mounted on the machine at the factory. If the user is expected to make frequent changes or adjustments to the program, the elementary microcomputer may be inadequate, and a higher-level computer should be considered.
Recruiting Older Adults in the Wild: Reflections on Challenges and Lessons Learned from Research Experience

It is important to understand the older adults prior to the design process. The understanding can better facilitate design conversations between the researchers and the older adults. In this paper, we discussed our experiences of building a relationship with the older adults in a local senior center. However, we encountered challenges when we tried to engaging the older adults, for example, skepticism towards the research purposes, reluctance to talk, and the difficulty of collecting data under a fun and leisure environment. We learned that creating relationships is important to engage older adults in research. Engaging the older adults in interactive dynamics could facilitate richer conversations with the older adults. Based on our lessons from interacting with the older adults, we propose that building long-term relationships and engaging older adults in fun research and design activities can facilitate a more successful participatory design.
Social context modulates how the winner effect restructures territorial behaviour in free-living woodpeckers

Animal interactions such as competition are mediated by complex social strategies, which consist of behaviours and cognitive mechanisms that guide their production. As a result, behaviour is highly flexible. This poses a challenge to understanding how competition plays out in natural systems, because the course of a contest can essentially be rewritten by prior experience and/or changes in social context. Here we addressed this gap by studying how both of these factors interact to reconfigure competitive strategies used in territorial defence by a wild bird. After experimentally inducing the winner effect, a cognitive-behavioural phenomenon in which winning a contest increases the probability of winning again in the future, we found that male red-bellied woodpeckers, Melanerpes carolinus, adopted a new social strategy marked by more flexible transitions between different aggressive displays, as well as increasing overall aggressive output. However, this effect was mitigated by the arrival of the female social mate; in response to this momentary shift in social context, males decreased their use of territorial drum displays and became less likely to move around the territory or switch display modes during competition. In other words, the winner effect increased spatiotemporal diversity of territorial strategies, such that males frequently changed their location and display output. A female's arrival, however, reversed this effect. More specifically, males tended to revert to advertisement and social vocalizations on female arrival, which suggests that the need to attend to the social mate may supersede the threat of territorial intrusion. This is consistent with a model in which competitive outcomes are impacted by the interactive effects of an individual's past experiences and shifts in present-day social context, which may allow monogamous animals to effectively manage the competing demands of driving off intruders and attending to the social mate.
Measuring literacy outcomes for the blind and for the deaf: Nationally representative results from Kenya

Abstract Evidence is scarce as to the literacy skills of children with special needs in low- and middle-income countries. Utilizing nationally representative data from Kenya, we present literacy outcomes for the blind and for the deaf in English, and for the blind in Kiswahili in Grade 1 and 2. Although comparisons with children in “regular” classrooms would be inappropriate due to language differences, we used large-scale data available from non-special-needs Kenyan classrooms to investigate the distribution of literacy skills. We found that children served by special schools for the blind outperformed those who were attending special units within “regular” schools, across nearly all estimates of literacy. For the deaf, no meaningful differences emerged in performance scores between children attending special schools and special units. Further, language preferences for the deaf population varied broadly; future research should consider assessing skills in Kenya Sign Language as well as Signed Exact English. Given the low literacy skills of both the blind and the deaf populations, we recommend substantial investment in programs designed to improve literacy outcomes for these populations. We also recommend examining literacy skills among all special-needs learners at scale, because of the complexity countries find in supporting these diverse learners, and because only looking at a handful of schools can mask trends in low performance that would become more obvious at scale.
High-Energy Processes in Crystals: Radiation, Pair Creation, Photon Splitting and Pion Creation

In the three years since we suggested that an aligned crystal could significantly enhance the electron-positron pair-creation rate,1 considerable progress has been made in understanding the special role a crystal plays in quantum electrodynamics (QED) at GeV energies. Theoretical work by several groups have shown that both radiation and pair creation are most simply described by viewing the crystal as a source of large and effectively homogeneous electric fields.2,3,4,5 This “uniform-field approximation” gives qualitatively reasonable results when the crystal axis is in nearly perfect alignment with a beam of incident particles (electrons, positrons, or photons). The success of the uniform-field approximation is a consequence of the large mass enhancement of electrons and positrons with GeV energies. The motion of these leptons in the plane transverse to the aligned crystal axis can be accurately described by a nonrelativistic Schrodinger equation for a particle with a relativistically enhanced mass,6 and the large mass allows us to describe particle trajectories classically. The general agreement between theory and experimental data on high-energy radiation and “crystal-enhanced” pair creation is quite satisfactory. A review of the experimental results, and the appropriate references are given in the paper by A. Belkacem et al. in this volume.
Developing Intergenerational Interventions To Address Food Insecurity among Pre-School Children: A Community-based Participatory Approach

Children and older adults are especially vulnerable to the negative effects of food insecurity. Intergenerational strategies often engage youth and elders in shared programming that supports each g...
Clonal Hematopoiesis and Atherosclerosis.

Jaiswal et al. report the results of four case–control studies that confirm a near doubling in the risk of coronary heart disease in patients with CHIP,1 a finding that was first reported in the Journal in 2014.2 The authors postulate that two mechanisms may be involved: the promotion of inflammatory responses, as supported in a study involving Tet2 knockout mice, and an increase in the number of myeloid cells, a finding that appears to be more relevant for patients with JAK2 mutations, which confer a much larger risk than the more common DNMT3A, TET2, and ASXL1 mutations, in which blood counts remain normal. However, the authors do not provide data relating to red-cell distribution width, which is the only blood-cell index that has been shown to have a significant association with CHIP2 and which has been associated with an unexplained increase in all-cause mortality in an aging population. 3,4 In understanding how CHIP promotes atherosclerosis, it is important to explore the causal relationship between clonal hematopoiesis and red-cell anisocytosis to determine whether these are independent or associated risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
Dosing parameters for the effects of high-frequency transcranial magnetic stimulation on smoking cessation: study protocol for a randomized factorial sham-controlled clinical trial.

Despite the considerable success of comprehensive tobacco control efforts, tobacco use remains one of the greatest preventable causes of death and disease today. Over half of all smokers in the US make quit attempts every year, but over 90% relapse within 12 months, choosing the immediate reinforcement of smoking over the long-term benefits of quitting. Conceptual and empirical evidence supports continued investigation of high frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) of the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex in reducing relapse and decreasing cigarette consumption. While this evidence is compelling, an optimal dosing strategy must be determined before a long-term efficacy trial can be conducted. The goal of this study is to determine a dosing strategy for 20 Hz rTMS that will produce the best long-term abstinence outcomes with the fewest undesirable effects. This is a fully crossed, double-blinded, sham-controlled, 3x2x2 randomized factorial study. The three factors are duration (stimulation days: 8, 12, and 16); intensity (900 or 1800 pulses per day); and sham control. Participants (n = 258) will consist of adults (18–65) who are motivated to quit smoking cigarettes and who will be followed for 6 months post-quit. Outcomes include latency to relapse, point prevalence abstinence rates, delay discounting rates, cognitive-behavioral skills acquisition, and multiple measures of potential undesirable effects that impact participant compliance. This study integrates existing theoretical concepts and methodologies from neuropsychology, behavioral economics, brain stimulation, clinical psychology, and the evidence-based treatment of tobacco dependence in the development of a promising and innovative approach to treat tobacco dependence. This study will establish an optimal dosing regimen for efficacy testing. Findings are expected to have a significant influence on advancing this approach as well as informing future research on clinical approaches that combine rTMS with other evidence-based treatments for tobacco dependence and perhaps other addictions. Clinical Trials NCT03865472 (retrospectively registered). The first participant was fully enrolled on November 26, 2018. Registration was posted on March 7, 2019.
Isometries of Hyperbolic Space

In this chapter, we study the topology of the group I(H n ) of isometries of hyperbolic space. The chapter begins with an introduction to topological groups. The topological group structure of I(H n ) is studied from various points of view in Section 5.2. The discrete subgroups of I(H n ) are of fundamental importance for the study of hyperbolic manifolds. The basic properties of the discrete subgroups of I(H n ) are examined in Section 5.3. A characterization of the discrete subgroups of I(E n ) is given in Section 5.4. The chapter ends with a characterization of all the elementary discrete subgroups of I(H n ).
Optimized Stochastic Optical Reconstruction Microscopy for Imaging Chromatin Structure in Pathological Tissue

Direct visualization of higher-order chromatin structure at the molecular scale is of great importance for understanding the impact of chromatin organization on gene expression in many biological processes. Understanding the changes in chromatin structure during pathological processes requires the use of in vivo models and clinical samples, and formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue is the most widespread form of preservation. Here we describe the details of PathSTORM, an optimized stochastic optical reconstruction microscopy (STORM) protocol for high-quality super-resolution imaging of densely packed higher-order chromatin organization in pathological tissue. We discuss detailed methods for fluorescence staining of DNA and histone proteins, as well as the key technical factors for obtaining high-quality STORM images in pathological tissue samples. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC Basic Protocol 1: Fluorescence staining of chromatin in pathological tissue Basic Protocol 2: STORM data processing Support Protocol 1: Drift correction Support Protocol 2: Image reconstruction Support Protocol 3: Hematoxylin & eosin (H&E) staining.
Does economic inequality undermine political equality? Testing two common assumptions

Abstract In recent years, scholars have expressed concern that democratic political systems are more responsive to rich citizens than to poor citizens under conditions of economic inequality. However, it is unclear whether economic inequality leads to unequal influence on government. Moreover, despite claims that proportional representation reduces inequalities in representation, there is no evidence that it does. I test these two prominent claims by connecting two types of citizens’ preferences to the composition of government in non-presidential systems using the Comparative Study of Electoral Systems (CSES) dataset. I find that rich citizens gain better representation in government than the poor more often than the reverse. However, I find no evidence of an association between economic inequality and inequalities in representation or that proportional representation influences income gaps in representation.
Development and Validation of a Comprehensive Model for Biotrickling Filters Upgrading Biogas

Abstract This paper details the development, validation, and analysis of a conceptually correct mathematical model for biogas upgrading biological trickling filter (BTF) reactors. The model considers convective transport and dispersion of gases through the fixed bed and mass transfer and reaction of absorbed gases in immobilized biofilms. Wetted and non-wetted biofilms, gas volume contraction through the bed as hydrogen and CO2 are converted to methane, and axial dispersion were all included in the model. The model successfully predicted the performance of a laboratory scale BTF upgrading various raw biogas compositions. A parametric sensitivity analysis revealed that the influent gas flow rate, biofilm specific surface area, and maximum rate of reaction (Rmax) were the most sensitive parameters. Furthermore, reducing the wetted biofilm ratio by 54% (12% wetted) was the easiest optimization measure for achieving renewable natural gas standards (>97% effluent methane). Practically, this could be achieved e.g., by applying an intermittent trickling regime. The liquid-film mass transfer coefficient (kLa) was not a sensitive parameter. This was because the model predicted that a majority of substrate conversion was occurring in the non-wetted biofilm, a finding that further supports the importance of reducing biofilm wetting in these BTFs. Overall, the model provides a strong conceptual framework for future studies modeling biogas upgrading processes. Additionally, it has the potential to be a useful tool in scaling and optimizing BTF bioreactors for biogas upgrading applications.
Can we improve the specificity of Parathyroid SPECT/CT scans by better pre test selection ?

512 Objectives: There is a current lack of agreement among medical and surgical professional society guidelines regarding the correct criteria for operative management of primary hyperthyroidism. We have observed an increase in both the number of parathyroid surgeries and sestamibi scans used for preoperative parathyroid adenoma localization. Although the reasons for the increase are likely multifactorial, there is concern that liberal operative criteria could contribute to the increase.The improved technology of SPECT/CT allows for improved detection and localization of smaller adenomas as well as normal parathyroid glands. In the absence of clear diagnostic, pathological and imaging criteria for parathyroid adenoma diagnosis, this may lead to in accurate results causing sub optimal surgeries. The objectives of this study are to further understand the relationship between size of adenoma, perioperative lab values, and surgical outcome. Methods: From 11/2015 - 8/2017, 281 patients underwent SPECT/CT according to institutional protocol with the presumed diagnosis of hyperparathyroidism. Studies were read and dictated by an attending radiologist. Relevant patient information as well as perioperative parathyroid hormone and calcium values were gathered retrospectively. Patients with multigland hyperplasia, MEN syndrome, or without accessible perioperative lab values were also excluded from analysis. Patients were separated into two groups based on the three dimensional volume of the adenoma with separation at 0.4 cm3. A positive surgical outcome was defined by having an intraoperative PTH drop of greater than 50%. Results: Of the 281 with SPECT/CT done at our institution during the study period, 191 met the study criteria (primary hyperparathyroidism without multigland hyperplasia, and adequate perioperative calcium, and PTH measurements). Of the 191 studies analyzed, 131 had a positive scan of which 120 underwent surgical resection. Forty-five patients (34% of positive studies) had an adenoma larger than 0.4 cm3 of which 44 had surgery and 43 had a positive surgical outcome (97%, P<0.05). The average calcium and PTH of the large adenoma group were 11.1 and 142.3 respectively. Of the 86 patients in the smaller adenoma group, 76 had surgery with 66 positive outcomes (87%). The smaller group’s preoperative calcium and PTH were 10.7 and 101.0 respectively. Conclusions: Higher perioperative PTH and calcium values are more likely to yield a positive SPECT-CT scan with a larger adenoma and positive surgical outcome.
Electroclinical Localization and Treatment

Semiology forms the basis for a clinical diagnosis based upon observation and with ancillary testing (i.e., Brain MRI and EEG) is the foundation for the classification of epileptic seizures and epilepsy syndromes. Clinical seizure behavior involving seizure onset, evolution, and postictal semiology reveals valuable information about seizure type in addition to location of the epileptogenic zone. Classification systems provide a common language facilitating communication among clinicians, researchers, and trainees. The International League Against Epilepsy classifies diagnostic categories by seizure type, epilepsy category, epilepsy syndrome, and etiology. Epilepsy syndromes consist of specific constellations of similar semiologies, EEG abnormalities, etiologies, and comorbidities. Electroclinical localization of seizures and epilepsy syndromes prompts the approach to management. The approach to patient care is multi-tiered and includes anti-seizure medication, epilepsy surgery, neuromodulation, and dietary treatment. Infrequently there may be overlapping features of electroclinical localization that result in an individualized approach to treatment.
Deciphering water-solid reactions during hydrothermal corrosion of SiC

Abstract Water-solid interfacial reactions are critical to understanding corrosion. More specifically, it is notoriously difficult to determine how water and solid interact beyond the initial chemisorption to induce the surface dissolution. Here, we report atomic-scale mechanisms of the elementary steps during SiC hydrothermal corrosion – from the initial surface attack to surface dissolution. We find that hydrogen scission reactions play a vital role in breaking Si-C bonds, regardless of the surface orientations. Stable silica layer does not form on the surface, but the newly identified chemical reactions on SiC are analogous to those observed during the dissolution of silica. SiC is dissolved directly into the water as soluble silicic acid. The rate of hydrothermal corrosion determined based on the calculated reaction activation energies is consistent with available experimental data. Our work sheds new light on understanding and interpreting the experimental observations and it provides foundation for design of materials that are resistant to corrosion in water.
Probing the quantum conversion efficiency in Yb-doped optical fibers with Brillouin scattering

Thermal processes are key limiting factors to power scaling in high-power fiber lasers. Heat generation can arise from the quantum defect, partly manageable through judicious selection of pumping and lasing wavelengths. Heat can also result from nonradiative processes, presently believed to be the main obstacle to efficient anti-Stokes fluorescence cooling in silicates. Therefore, it is meaningful and necessary to evaluate the quantum conversion efficiency (QCE), which is defined to be the fraction of pump photons that undergo the desired radiative process. Here, an accurate and sensitive Brillouin-based method to characterize the QCE in Yb-doped optical fiber is proposed and evaluated.
Beyond Euler/Cardan analysis: True glenohumeral axial rotation during arm elevation and rotation.

Abstract Background Based on Euler/Cardan analysis, prior investigations have reported up to 80° of glenohumeral (GH) external rotation during arm elevation, dependent on the plane of elevation (PoE). However, the subtraction of Euler/Cardan angles does not compute the rotation around the humerus’ longitudinal axis (i.e. axial rotation). Clinicians want to understand the true rotation around the humerus’ longitudinal axis and rely on laboratories to inform their understanding of underlying shoulder biomechanics, especially for the GH joint since its motion cannot be visually ascertained. True GH axial rotation has not been previously measured in vivo, and its difference from Euler/Cardan (apparent) axial rotation is unknown. Research question What is the true GH axial rotation during arm elevation and external rotation, and does it vary from apparent axial rotation and by PoE? Methods Twenty healthy subjects (10 M/10 F, ages 22–66) were recorded using biplane fluoroscopy while performing arm elevation in the coronal, scapular and sagittal planes, and external rotation in 0° and 90° of abduction. Apparent GH axial rotation was computed using the xz’y’’ and yx’y’’ sequences. True GH axial rotation was computed by integrating the projection of GH angular velocity onto the humerus’ longitudinal axis. One-dimensional statistical parametric mapping was utilized to compare apparent versus true axial rotation, axial rotation versus 0°, and detect differences in axial rotation by PoE. Results In contrast to apparent axial rotation, true GH axial rotation does not differ by PoE and is not different than 0° during arm elevation at higher elevation angles. The spherical area between the sequence-specific and actual humeral trajectory explains the difference between apparent and true axial rotation. Significance Proper quantification of axial rotation is important because biomechanics literature informs clinical understanding of shoulder biomechanics. Clinicians care about true axial rotation, which should be reported in future studies of shoulder kinematics.