cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Performance improvement on a Web Geospatial service for the remote sensing flood-induced crop loss assessment web application using vector tiling

The Remote Sensing Flood Crop Loss Assessment (RF-CLASS) is a system of geospatial Web services that provide comprehensive services to decision makers in assessing flood-induced crop loss. It serves a series of vector-based geospatial data. Traditionally, these data are visualized on the Web through a open Web Map Service (WMS) while the geospatial data are kept in either a geo-database or a vector-feature persistent service — Web Feature Service (WFS). The rasterization of vector features for rendering on the Web is often completely on the fly. This approach leads to a significant inferior user experience on visualization of large vector dataset due to the delay on rasterization without pre-calculated pyramids and the loss of rich attributions on each vector feature. The vector tiling technology is adopted to improve the performance. Several technical challenges in optimizing the vector tiling have been identified and studied that are tiling schema, tile boundary, and attribution. Full stack of services (server and client) have been designed, implemented and tested to achieve the best performance on loading speed and attribution.
Math and Art Curriculum Integration: A Post-Modern Foundation

This paper suggests a post-modern curriculum reform in art education by examining elements of math and art that are congruent. The paper does not suggest that one discipline or the other is more significant. Three curricular domains are considered: the ideal, the instructional, and the operational by reviewing a range of materials from those generated by philosophers such as Edmund Husserl to those created by educational theorists. A shared web of meaning (Doll, 1993) emerges from the consideration of historic documents and events in both disciplines. Suggested ways to begin to restructure and coordinate math and art curricula include: inspection of the content areas for congruent elements; examination of older curricular models for related theory and materials; and review of the developmental bases for creating operational curricula in both disciplines. Brigham (1989), D'Amico and Ostrander (1940), Hurwitz and Day (1991), and a curriculum by Ware and Hooe (1907) are examined for the math and art coordina...
University Housing Development: A PPP Approach

Growth and financial constraint continue to hinder development in a multitude of areas in the public sector. Higher education has joined the growing list of public sector organizations turning toward the private sector for innovative solutions to the negative externalities of growth. On April 14, 2014, the University System of Georgia posted a request for qualified contractors for a first of its kind public–private partnership. Wishing to move away from its current long-term asset financing plan that utilized public–private ventures, and to move much of the bonded debt, the university system issued a call for contractors for the construction of campus housing on nine system-member institutions across the state of Georgia. In an effort to evaluate the importance of this contractual arrangement, a thematic analysis of publicly available contract documents is analyzed. We find that the university system’s values associated with the project are best described as risk-averse behavior.
While the Train Was Stopped: Leningrad, 1977

Life as a student in the USSR during the Brezhnev years yielded experiences that, in the long run, illuminated both the origins and the collapse of the Soviet system.
Methylene Blue Ameliorates Olfactory Dysfunction and Motor Deficits in a Chronic MPTP/Probenecid Mouse Model of Parkinson's Disease.

Abstract Mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress are very prominent and early features in Parkinson’s disease (PD) and in animal models of PD. Thus, antioxidant therapy for PD has been proposed, but in clinical trials such strategies have met with very limited success. Methylene blue (MB), a small-molecule synthetic heterocyclic organic compound that acts as a renewable electron cycler in the mitochondrial electron transport chain, manifesting robust antioxidant and cell energetics-enhancing properties, has recently been shown to have significant beneficial effects in reducing nigrostriatal dopaminergic loss and motor impairment in acute toxin models of PD. However, no studies have investigated the impact of this promising agent in chronic models or for olfactory dysfunction, an early non-motor feature of PD. To test the efficacy of low-dose MB for olfactory dysfunction, motor symptoms, and dopaminergic neurodegeneration, mice were injected with ten subcutaneous doses of 25 mg/kg MPTP, plus 250 mg/kg intraperitoneal probenecid or saline/probenecid at 3.5-day intervals. Following the onset of olfactory dysfunction, MPTP/probenecid (MPTP/p) and saline/probenecid mice were provided drinking water with or without 1 mg/kg/day MB. Oral delivery of low-dose MB significantly ameliorated MPTP/p-induced deficits in motor coordination, as well as degeneration of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)-positive neurons of the substantia nigra and TH-positive terminals in the striatum. Importantly, olfactory dysfunction was ameliorated by MB treatment, whereas this benefit is not observed with currently available anti-Parkinsonian medications. These results indicate that low-dose MB is a promising neuroprotective intervention for both motor and non-motor features of PD.
Commentary: A Feminist Framework for Analyzing Complex Gendered Power Dynamics Altering Cultural Landscapes from the Past into the Present

The purpose of this chapter is to provide new insights by using a feminist framework to analyze gendered power dynamics that were explicitly or implicitly discussed in the previous chapters in this book. Most chapters found some evidence of gender power dynamics, whether discussed under that term, or more frequently using more specific words for particular power dynamics in gender relations, ranging from authority, competition, resistance, struggles, and battles, to influence, negotiations, equality, complementarity, cooperation, interdependence, partnership, or the creation of community. Both historical archaeologists and philosophers have argued that power is expressed through human constructions of “space” (Orser 1988:320; Rabinow 1984:252). Gender power dynamics are fundamental in creating what I call “powered landscapes,” defined as landscapes that express social power dynamics spatially on landscapes, such as gender segregation or integration. This commentary uses a feminist framework of a diversity of interrelated powers to gain new insights about the gender power dynamics that are explicitly or implicitly discussed in each book chapter.
Effects of dietary energy on control of luteinizing hormone secretion in cattle and sheep

Prolonged restriction of dietary energy delays onset of puberty, disrupts cyclicity in sexually mature animals, and lengthens the postpartum anestrous period in domestic ruminants. One important mechanism by which energy restriction impairs reproductive activity seems to be suppression of the increase in LH pulse frequency that is necessary for growth of ovarian follicles to the preovulatory stage. Under-nutrition apparently inhibits pulsatile secretion of LH by reducing LHRH secretion by the hypothalamus. The ability of an animal to sustain a high-frequency mode of pulsatile LH release is related to its metabolic status. Mechanisms linking metabolic status to LHRH secretion have not been fully characterized. Changes in body fat have been associated with changes in reproductive activity, but it is unlikely that body fat per se regulates LHRH secretion. It is possible that pulsatile LHRH release is regulated by specific metabolites and(or) metabolic hormones that reflect nutritional status. Alternatively, availability of oxidizable metabolic fuels, such as glucose and nonesterified fatty acids, may influence activity of neurons that control LHRH release. Our understanding of how the central nervous system transduces information about nutritional status into neuroendocrine signals that control reproduction in cattle and sheep is limited by a lack of information concerning the nature of neurons controlling LHRH release in these species.
Altered arterial baroreflex-muscle metaboreflex interaction in heart failure

We found that baroreceptor unloading during the muscle metaboreflex in heart failure results in occlusive interaction (except for ventricular function) with significant vasoconstriction of all vasc...
A Law Professor’s Modest Response to Trumpism: Supervising Student Directed Research Papers on Impeachment

This short essay discusses my motivation for and the reading materials and procedures I use when offering about a half-dozen law students each semester a Directed Research option to research and write papers on the topic of Presidential impeachment. I recommend that those faculty members who may have only a modest Constitutional Law background, but who feel as I do that greater understanding and more sustained discussion of the merits and drawbacks of removal of President Trump from office through impeachment is called for, and who wish to facilitate such understanding and discussion without compromising their professional and ethical obligations to their students, consider trying this approach.
Cardiac Dysfunction in the Sigma 1 Receptor Knockout Mouse Associated With Impaired Mitochondrial Dynamics and Bioenergetics.

Background The Sigma 1 receptor (Sigmar1) functions as an interorganelle signaling molecule and elicits cytoprotective functions. The presence of Sigmar1 in the heart was first reported on the basi...
Hemispheric Conversations: Exploring Links between Past and Present, Industrial and Post-Industrial through Site-Specific Graffitti Practice at the Carrie Furnaces

In this article, I briefly discuss a project I co-organized this year in collaboration with Oreen Cohen, Shane Pilster, Rivers of Steel, University of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Partners in the Arts, and the American Studies Association. Named “Hemispheric Conversations: Urban Art Project” we used international collaboration between artists in Chicago, Pittsburgh, and Leon Guanajuato Mexico as a platform for conversation about how to reimagine our shared urban spaces. In a political moment that might be a cause for despair, collaborative art practice in urban space can serve as one vehicle to reignite our shared sense of possibility and energy.
Structural heart disease: one valve does not fit all.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW Highlight the difficulties patients, physicians, and the global economy face in relation to treatment of structural heart diseases. It is easy to be carried away by the excitement of medical advancement; however, it is difficult to demonstrate restraint. Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is a modern marvel that can help many patients when utilized appropriately. This article highlights the work that has been done to facilitate decision-making in this challenging patient population. RECENT FINDINGS Patient selection is of paramount importance as TAVR remains a costly intervention. Currently, our gold standards for preprocedural patient evaluation are inadequate. Apropos, several objective tools are being developed to help clinicians evaluate frailty. Giving patients a more accurate postprocedure prognosis allows them to make informed decisions on whether this intervention is appropriate for their respective goals. SUMMARY In order for us to fully embrace shared decision-making and cost-effectiveness, we must continue to work on our prognostic tools and have honest conversations with patients and their families to formulate individualized treatment plans. This becomes even more important when factors like economic impact of intervention are considered. In an era where cost-effective care has garnered more attention than ever before, we must do our best to make sure our interventions are in line with patient goals and offer the maximum amount of benefit, given the current cost of TAVR.
Minimally entangled state preparation of localized wave functions on quantum computers

Initializing a single site of a lattice scalar field theory into an arbitrary state with support throughout the quantum register requires $O({2}^{{n}_{Q}})$ entangling gates on a quantum computer with ${n}_{Q}$ qubits per site. It is conceivable that instead initializing to functions that are good approximations to states may have utility in reducing the number of required entangling gates. In the case of a single site of a noninteracting scalar field theory, initializing to a symmetric exponential wave function requires ${n}_{Q}\ensuremath{-}1$ entangling gates, the minimal number necessary to create an entangled state of all ${n}_{Q}$ qubits. This is compared with the ${2}^{{n}_{Q}\ensuremath{-}1}+{n}_{Q}\ensuremath{-}3+{\ensuremath{\delta}}_{{n}_{Q},1}$ required for a symmetric Gaussian wave function. In this work, we explore the initialization of one-site (${n}_{Q}=4$), two-site (${n}_{Q}=3$), and three-site (${n}_{Q}=3$) noninteracting scalar field theories with symmetric exponential wave functions using IBM's quantum simulators and quantum devices (Poughkeepsie and Tokyo). With the digitizations attainable with ${n}_{Q}=3,4$, these tensor-product wave functions are found to have large overlap with a Gaussian wave function and provide a suitable low-noise initialization for improvement and Somma inflation. In performing these simulations, we have employed a workflow that interleaves calibrations to mitigate systematic errors in production. The calibrations allow tolerance cuts on gate performance including the fidelity of the symmetrizing Hadamard gate, both in vacuum (${|\mathbf{0}\ensuremath{\rangle}}^{\ensuremath{\bigotimes}{n}_{Q}}$) and in medium (${n}_{Q}\ensuremath{-}1$ qubits initialized to an exponential function). The results obtained in this work are relevant to systems beyond scalar field theories, such as the deuteron radial wave function, two- and three-dimensional Cartesian-space wave functions, and nonrelativistic multinucleon systems built on a localized eigenbasis.
Influence of scan pattern and geometry on the microstructure and soft-magnetic performance of additively manufactured Fe-Si

Abstract The influence of geometry and scan pattern on the microstructure evolution and magnetic performance of additively manufactured Fe-3Si components was investigated. To reduce eddy current losses, novel geometries were designed and built and the microstructure and properties of these samples were characterized. The laser scan pattern was shown to strongly influence both the as-built grain structure and strength of the crystallographic texture, resulting in measurable changes in the as-built magnetic performance. In thin wall samples, heat treatment resulted in an increase in the maximum relative magnetic permeability and decrease in power losses in most samples, consistent with grain growth. However, decreases in the spacing between thin walls to increase the stacking factor of the cross-section was shown to result in unwanted electrical shorting between walls and an increase in eddy current losses. Compared to simple parallel plate construction and a mesh structure, a novel cross-section design based on the Hilbert space filling curve was found to produce the lowest power losses. The mechanisms behind these results were explored using a combination of heat conduction and electromagnetic simulations, providing a route for future component and process optimization.
Multidisciplinary approach achieves limb salvage without revascularization in patients with mild to moderate ischemia and tissue loss

Abstract Objective The Society for Vascular Surgery Wound, Ischemia, and foot Infection (WIfI) classification system has been validated to predict wound healing and limb salvage of patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD). Our goal was to evaluate the association between WIfI stage and wound healing, limb salvage, and survival in a select cohort of patients with PAD and tissue loss undergoing an attempt of wound healing without immediate revascularization (conservative approach) in a multidisciplinary wound program. Methods Veterans with PAD and tissue loss were prospectively enrolled in our Prevention of Amputation in Veterans Everywhere (PAVE) program. Limbs were stratified to a conservative, revascularization, primary amputation, and palliative limb care approach based on the patient's fitness, ambulatory status, perfusion evaluation, and validated pathway of care. Rates of wound healing, wound recurrence, limb salvage, and survival were retrospectively analyzed by WIfI clinical stages (stage 1-4) in the conservative group. Cox regression modeling was used to estimate clinical outcomes by WIfI stage. Results Between January 2006 and October 2017, there were 961 limbs prospectively enrolled in our PAVE program. A total of 233 limbs with 277 wounds were stratified to the conservative approach. WIfI staging distribution included 19.7% stage 1, 20.2% stage 2, 38.6% stage 3, and 21.5% stage 4. All ischemia scores were classified as 1 or 2. Advanced wound interventions and minor amputations were performed on 40 limbs (16.6%) and 57 limbs (23.7%), respectively. Average long-term follow-up was 41.4 ± 29.0 months. Complete wound healing without revascularization was achieved in 179 limbs (76.8%) during 4.4 ± 4.1 months. Thirty-four limbs (14%) underwent deferred revascularization because of a lack of complete wound healing. At long-term follow-up, wound recurrence per limb was 39%. Overall limb salvage at long-term follow-up was 89.3%. Stratified by WIfI stage, there was no statistically significant difference between groups for wound healing (P = .64), wound recurrence (P = .55), or limb salvage (P = .66) after adjustment for significant patient, limb, and wound characteristics. Conclusions In select patients with mild to moderate ischemia and tissue loss, a stratified approach can achieve acceptable rates of wound healing and limb salvage, with limited need for deferred revascularization. WIfI clinical staging did not predict wound healing, limb salvage, or survival in this cohort.
Theory of Decoherence Timescales of Molecular Processes

We introduce a general but simple theory of decoherence timescales based on an early-time expansion of the quantum dynamics of open quantum systems. The theory is useful to isolate decoherence mechanisms and to test approximate quantum dynamics methods.
Effect of interface configuration on the mechanical properties and dislocation mechanisms in metal graphene composites

Abstract The effect of graphene-metal interface on dislocation gliding and generation is a key element in understanding the mechanical properties of graphene metal-matrix composites. Graphene-metal interfaces can impede the propagation of dislocations, which enhances the mechanical properties, particularly the strength. On the other hand, the presence of such interfaces can also act as the dislocation source in the metal matrix, which can significantly weaken the material properties. This implies that graphene will not always improve the mechanical properties of metals, but alternatively, it can even significantly weaken the properties. Whether graphene acts as a dislocation sink or source primarily depends on the metal-graphene interface and also other pre-existing defects in the matrix. In this paper, we investigate these two opposing effects at the atomistic scale, using Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations. To study the effect of the interface and to isolate the effects of dislocations from defects, we have reinforced a perfect crystal of nickel with graphene. We found that in the perfect crystal, the graphene in any interface structure acts as a defect and weakens the metal matrix. Each interface structure in the composite has a different effect on the system, and the topfcc structure of the graphene-nickel interface results in the least strength reduction. For graphene particles, apart from the interface, edges can also act as a dislocation nucleation site. We investigated the two edges –Zigzag and Armchair edge of graphene– and found that both the edges cause decrease in mechanical strength. Experimental results (always reported an increase in mechanical strength) are in contradiction to what we found in this work. The reason for this contradiction is that in the real metallic system, defects are already present, and those acts as a dislocation source more readily than the graphene. To verify this, we studied the metallic systems having defects in nickel crystal and the graphene is reinforced. Through these studies, we investigate the conditions in which the strengthening mechanisms overcome the weakening mechanisms, and improvement is observed in the mechanical properties, similar to some of the reported experimental works. Our results shed light on the deformation mechanisms in metal-graphene composites and can be used as a guide in designing and fabricating more efficient metal-matrix composites.
Fraudulent health claims: Further consideration of the role of emotions

In order to combat fraudulent health claims, MacFarlane, Hurlstone, and Ecker (2020) have proposed a taxonomy intended to establish factors that increase susceptibility to such messages. We expand upon the work of MacFarlane and colleagues by highlighting the role of emotions in attitude change, and elaborate upon how emotions may increase susceptibility to fraudulent health messaging. We assert that to produce lasting and persistent attitude change, emotion needs to be incorporated into health care fraud interventions, as well as factual information. We concur with MacFarlane and colleagues that fraudulent health claims are a pressing issue with deleterious consequences, and supplement their work by enumerating the importance of emotion in promoting attitude and behavior change.
Update on the Management of Helicobacter pylori Infection.

Our purpose was to provide an update on methods and indications for testing and treatment selection focusing on novel modalities. Increasing antibiotic resistance has reduced treatment effectiveness. Antibiotic resistance testing is not widely available in North America where there are insufficient resistance and susceptibility data. Quadruple regimens (bismuth-based or concomitant/non-bismuth-based) have been recommended first-line. A rifabutin-based combination product recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration is highly effective and should simplify treatment. The potassium-competitive acid blocker vonoprazan is being evaluated as part of dual or triple combination regimens. Molecular-based genotypic testing for antibiotic resistance and an effective H. pylori vaccine remain under development. Inability to test for antibiotic resistance renders treatment selection empiric. However, resistance to rifabutin and amoxicillin remains rare. Effective management continues to comprise appropriate diagnostic testing for active infection, utilization of an effective regimen, and post-treatment testing.
Health literacy and caregiver understanding in the CHD population.

Background: CHD is the most common birth defect type, with one-fourth of patients requiring intervention in the first year of life. Caregiver understanding of CHD may vary. Health literacy may be one factor contributing to this variability. Methods: The study occurred at a large, free-standing children’s hospital. Recruitment occurred at a free-of-charge CHD camp and during outpatient cardiology follow-up visits. The study team revised the CHD Guided Questions Tool from an eighth- to a sixth-grade reading level. Caregivers of children with CHD completed the “Newest Vital Sign” health literacy screen and demographic surveys. Health literacy was categorised as “high” (Newest Vital Sign score 4–6) or “low” (score 0–3). Caregivers were randomised to read either the original or revised Guided Questions Tool and completed a validated survey measuring understandability and actionability of the Guided Questions Tool. Understandability and actionability data analysis used two-sample t-testing, and within demographic group differences in these parameters were assessed via one-way analysis of variance. Results: Eighty-two caregivers participated who were largely well educated with a high income. The majority (79.3%) of participants scored “high” for health literacy. No differences in understanding (p = 0.43) or actionability (p = 0.11) of the original and revised Guided Questions Tool were noted. There were no socio-economic-based differences in understandability or actionability (p > 0.05). There was a trend towards improved understanding of the revised tool (p = 0.06). Conclusions: This study demonstrated that readability of the Guided Questions Tool could be improved. Future work is needed to expand the study population and further understand health literacy’s impact on the CHD community.
In Vivo Differentiation of Stem Cell-derived Human Pancreatic Progenitors to Treat Type 1 Diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is an autoimmune disease that results from the loss of the pancreatic β-cells. The autoimmune destruction of the β-cells causes the loss of insulin production from the islets of the pancreas, resulting in the loss of blood glucose regulation. This loss of regulation, if not treated, can lead to a plethora of long-term complications in patients. Subsequently, T1DM patients rely on the administration of exogenous insulin sources to maintain their blood glucose levels. In this review, we summarize the history of T1DM therapy and current treatment options. Although treatments for T1DM have progressed substantially, none of the available treatment options allow the patient to live autonomously. Therefore, the challenge to develop a therapy that will fully reverse the disease still remains. A promising field of T1DM therapies is cell replacement therapies derived from human pluripotent stem cells. Here, we specifically review studies that employ stem-cell derived pancreatic progenitors transplanted for in vivo differentiation/maturation and discuss, in detail, the complications that arise post transplantation, including heterogeneity, graft immaturity, and host foreign bodyresponse. We also discuss efforts to induce human stem cell-derived mature β-cells in vitro and compare strategies regarding transplantation of pancreatic progenitors versus mature β-cells cells. Finally, we review key approaches that address critical limitations of in vivo progenitor differentiation including vascularization, oxygenation, and transplant location. The field of islet replacement therapy has made tremendous progress in the last two decades. If the strengths and limitations of the field continue to be identified and addressed, future studies will lead to an ideal treatment for T1DM.
Local slip resistances in equal-molar MoNbTi multi-principal element alloy

Abstract In this work, we calculate the local slip resistances (LSRs) in equal-molar MoNbTi multi-principal element alloy via molecular static simulations. We consider dislocations of either screw or edge character gliding on four types of slip planes, {110}, {112}, {123}, and {134}, in either forward or backward sense of the 111 slip direction. As references, we also compute the Peierls stresses of the same dislocations in two natural reference metals, Mo and Nb, and a synthetic one, the mean-field, A -atom potential-based MoNbTi. Further, we compare the LSRs with the corresponding ideal shear strengths that do not account for the lattice distortions induced by dislocation cores. We show that for neither dislocation character is the LSR on the {110} plane the lowest in MoNbTi, in contrast to Mo and Nb. For edge dislocations, slip on the {134} plane is the easiest, but for the screw dislocations, it is the hardest. For screw dislocations, the {112} glide plane is the most favored, while for edge dislocations, it is the least favored. We also find that the screw-to-edge ratio in the slip resistance is reduced by one order of magnitude in MoNbTi compared to that of any pure reference metal for the same type of slip plane. These results suggest that, in contrast to pure body-centered cubic (BCC) metals, BCC MPEAs could deform by a multiplicity of slip modes due to the lower screw-to-edge ratios and the lower LSRs for edge dislocations on the three higher order planes.
Minimizing Pulse Check Duration Through Educational Video Review.

Introduction: The American Heart Association Guidelines for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) recommend pulse checks of less than 10 seconds. We assessed the effect of video review-based educational feedback on pulse check duration with and without point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS).Methods: Cameras recorded cases of CPR in the emergency department (ED). Investigators reviewed resuscitation videos for ultrasound use during pulse check, pulse check duration, and compression-fraction ratio. Investigators reviewed health records for patient outcomes. Providers received written feedback regarding pulse check duration and compression-fraction ratio. Researchers reviewed selected videos in multidisciplinary grand round presentations, with research team members facilitating discussion. These presentations highlighted strategies that include the following: limit on pulse check duration; emphasis on compressions; and use of “record, then review” method for pulse checks with POCUS. The primary endpoint was pulse check duration with and without POCUS.Results: Over 19 months, investigators reviewed 70 resuscitations with a total of 325 pulse checks. The mean pulse check duration was 11.5 ± 8.8 seconds (n = 224) and 13.8 ± 8.6 seconds (n = 101) without and with POCUS, respectively. POCUS pulse checks were significantly longer than those without POCUS (P = 0.001). Mean pulse check duration per three-month block decreased statistically significantly from study onset to the final study period (from 17.2 to 10 seconds [P<0.0001]) overall; decreased from 16.6 to 10.5 seconds (P<0.0001) without POCUS; and with POCUS from 19.8 to 9.88 seconds (P<0.0001) with POCUS. Pulse check times decreased significantly over the study period of educational interventions. The strongest effect size was found in POCUS pulse check duration (P = -0.3640, P = 0.002).Conclusion: Consistent with previous studies, POCUS prolonged pulse checks. Educational interventions were associated with significantly decreased overall pulse-check duration, with an enhanced effect on pulse checks involving POCUS. Performance feedback and video review-based education can improve CPR by increasing chest compression-fraction ratio.
Efficient inversion of 2.5D electrical resistivity data using the discrete adjoint method

ABSTRACTWe have developed a memory and operation-count efficient 2.5D inversion algorithm of electrical resistivity (ER) data that can handle fine discretization domains imposed by other geophysica...
Juvenile white shrimp (Litopenaeus setiferus) can be effectively implanted with passive integrated transponder tags

Abstract Connectivity among estuarine habitats can influence nekton vital rates, and studying these processes requires the ability to track individuals effectively. Passive integrated transponder (PIT) tags have been used to evaluate movement of juvenile fishes in estuaries, yet this technique remains untested for penaeid shrimp . We evaluated survival, growth, and feeding behavior of juvenile white shrimp ( Litopenaeus setiferus ), an ecologically and economically important penaeid species along the US Atlantic and Gulf coasts, implanted with 8-mm PIT tags. Daily survival and tag retention observations and weekly length and weight measurements were made of tagged individuals (n = 18) kept in individual seawater tanks for 28 days, and compared with similarly housed untagged (control) individuals (n = 18). After four weeks, tagged and control shrimp were offered varying densities of a common estuarine prey item, grass shrimp ( Palaemonetes spp.), in feeding trials. Tagged white shrimp exhibited 100% tag retention and an estimated probability of survival after 28 d that was not significantly different from control shrimp (0.81 and 0.94, respectively). We found no evidence of a relationship between tagging treatment or initial shrimp size on the probability of survival. Tagged shrimp demonstrated growth at rates that were not significantly different from control shrimp, and tagged and control shrimp exhibited nearly identical feeding rates on grass shrimp (Palaemonetes spp.) prey. Our results suggest PIT tag technology represents an effective tool to study the movement and vital rates of juvenile white shrimp during their estuarine residence.
Philosophie im Roman

Der Autor hat eher selten die Moglichkeit, zu steuern, wie sein Werk interpretiert wird. Da Eco von der Universitat Bologna auf den weltweit ersten Lehrstuhl fur Semiotik berufen wurde, ist die Versuchung gros, seine theoretischen Uberlegungen auch in seinem literarischen Werk zu suchen (s. dazu Kap. 32). Daruber gerat leicht aus dem Fokus, dass es eine Vielzahl philosophischer Stromungen gibt, die Eco beeinflussten, ebenso wie die Semiotik sich aus unterschiedlichsten Traditionen der Philosophie speist: Eine ›Lehre von den Zeichen‹ ist bereits bei den Vorsokratikern zu finden, und Nikolaus Cusanus sieht sie als grundlegend fur jedwede Erkenntnis.
Promoting Traditional Knowledge in Conservation: The Role of The Borobudur Conservation Office

This paper reviews the incorporation of diverse forms of traditional knowledge in conservation research by the Borobudur Conservation Office (BCO), Indonesia. Research undertaken by the BCO relied ...
The challenge of insomnia for patients on haemodialysis.

Insomnia is common among patients on maintenance haemodialysis and may be exacerbated by the challenges of the COVID pandemic. However, data on the efficacy of insomnia interventions in this population are limited. Efforts are needed to address this important problem and increase access to insomnia interventions for patients on haemodialysis.
Macroscopic Equity Markets Model: Towards Predicting Financial Crashes

This research examines the structural properties of the macroscopic model introduced in [AlShelahi and Saigal, 2018]. We present a theoretical analysis of the behavior of the macroscopic variables. In particular, we show that the model exhibits shock-like solutions, providing a new narrative for financial shocks. To solve the system of stochastic nonlinear partial differential equations adaptively, an integrative algorithm is devised and tested on abnormal and normal trading days. The results suggest that abnormalities can be identified before crashes. Our findings warrant further investigation into the macroscopic structure of equity markets.
Effects of Non-driving Task Related Workload and Situational Awareness in Semi-autonomous Vehicles

Recent advances in autonomous and semi-autonomous vehicles have resulted in more efficient vehicle maneuvers, which causes drivers to be less involved in operational driving, thus leading to increased drivers’ engagement in other non-driving related activities. High levels of automation arise concerns such as a decrease in situational awareness (SA) and driving performance as drivers are likely to undertake a non-driving related task during vehicle maneuvers. For cars with conditional or higher automation (SAE Level 3 or up), there is a need to study and monitor drivers’ level of engagement/involvement with the vehicles. Considering the key factors for safety when drivers perform a non-driving related task (NDRT) during conditional automation, issues concerning drivers’ SA and takeover performance in absence or failure of automation need to be addressed. In this study, we designed and conducted driving simulator experiments to investigate drivers’ SA while they were performing a NDRT during the conditional automated driving. We also investigated drivers’ takeover time and takeover quality in different NDRTs. We found that drivers’ vigilance levels are different while performing different NDRTs during semi-automation. Our results show that the response time was typically between 5–8 s and the deviation of distance to the center of the lane ranged from −0.66 m to −0.3 m which might suggest the variability in takeover quality during different NDRTs.
It’s All about the Nurse Aides

Context: Collaboration between the certified nurse aide (CNA) and licensed nurse (LN) is crucial for the provision of safe, personalized, quality care in the nursing home. This study explored the lived work experience of collaboration in caregiving pairs that identified one another as successful care partners in the delivery of high-quality resident care. Objective: This research explored the CNA and LN experience of mutual support in four nursing homes in the Western United States with a particular focus on varied approaches of LN support for CNAs. Methods: Using a purposive sampling design, we surveyed 12 LN and 12 CNA participants individually and as part of an LN/CNA caregiving pair. Semi-structured interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, loaded into NVivo software, and coded for meaning. Findings: LN participants described feeling most supported by CNAs who do their job well. LN and CNA participants described ways LNs in the sample provide holistic support to their CNA coworkers—a phenomenon we coinedundergirding: listen and respond, show respect, help with resident care and answer call lights, educate and explain, provide feedback and encouragement, adjust and divide workloads, protect the CNA, support physical needs, and provide emotional support. Undergirding promotes work success for the CNA and the LN. Most importantly, participants described how undergirding facilitates high-quality resident care. Limitations: This study was designed to identify and explore optimal collaboration as it is possible in the current nursing home setting. It was not intended to represent all LN/CNA caregiving pairs. Implications: These findings may be helpful for educators and administrators, but perhaps they are most important for policymakers. More effective support for CNAs is needed if we hope to decrease turnover, improve retention, and elevate nursing home residents’ quality of care.
Type III Secretion Systems

Type III secretion system (TTSS) is believed to have originally evolved from the flagellar export system and is now dispersed among a number of both animal- and plant-interacting gram-negative bacteria. The aim of much current research on TTSS is to understand the mechanisms involved in effector secretion/injection and what the effectors are doing inside the host cell. Bacterial pathogens use several different protein secretion pathways to export virulence proteins from the bacterial cytoplasm to their site of action. Chaperones bind to effector proteins in the bacterial cytosol and remain cytosolic following export of their cognate substrate. Secreted proteins exhibiting significant structural similarities to YopB and YopD are present in all TTSSs of animal pathogens but not plant pathogens. Secretion of LcrQ upon cell contact depletes LcrQ from the cytoplasmic compartment and triggers increased transcription of type III genes. Secretion and polymerization of PrgI are required to complete the assembly of the needle complex and type III export apparatus. Two flagellar components, FlhB, an inner membrane protein with a substantial C-terminal cytoplasmic domain, and FliK, the secreted hook-length control protein, are proposed to be involved in switches substrate specificity process. An important question is how far knowledge of flagellar biogenesis can be extrapolated to understand the structure and function of the type III export apparatus. It is obvious that there will be features unique to each system; however, the basic process of transporting substrates across the bacterial membranes appears to be relatively well conserved.
THE RESCUE DEFENCE OF CAPITAL PUNISHMENT

Many political philosophers today think of justice as fundamentally about fairness, while those who defend capital punishment typically hold that justice is fundamentally about desert. In this paper I show that justice as fairness calls for capital punishment because the continued existence of murderers increases unfairness between themselves and their victims, increasing the harm to murdered persons. Rescuing murdered persons from increasing harm is prima facie morally required, and so capital punishment is a prima facie duty of society and sentencing judges.1
Correcting Irrational Exuberance

Irrational Exuberance (Greenspan, 1996; Shiller, 2000, 2006) depicts that the volatility of stock market may result partly from investor psychology and as a result investors may bias financial judgments with affective and non-fundamental variables. Yet one lacks a theoretical framework and methodology to separate the affective bias (psychology) from the fundamental sensitivity (economics) in stock or fund judgments. The author proposes a signal detection theory (SDT) framework and the SDT methodology to separate the bias from the sensitivity based on modeling and computing the data of 11012 mutual funds. With this SDT approach, a seemly good fund with a high average return rate actually may not be a good choice for future investment because its fundamental sensitivity is weak. Hence, the irrational exuberance for the fund may be corrected with the fundamental sensitivity indicator. The searchable results on the sensitivity (dprime) and bias (bias_c) for these funds are available at the YesWici.com website. Based on the SDT model, YesWici.com also presents an online Monte Carlo Simulation (MCS) forecasting engine to calculate and compare future fund performance.
Size, structure and change implementation

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to evaluate competing views of whether organization size creates conditions of rigidity or fluidity with respect to adaptation and change, this study empirically compares processes used to implement planned change and their associated outcomes in small and large organizations.Design/methodology/approach – Using Lewin's three‐phase model of change as an evaluative framework, questionnaire‐based data were obtained from change managers in small and large organizations. Analysis of variance and profile analysis were used to investigate size‐related differences in unfreezing, movement and refreezing phases of change, and in implementation success.Findings – Results indicated that small organizations employed significantly lower levels of refreezing activities and realized lower levels of implementation success relative to large organizations.Research limitations/implications – While cross sectional in nature, the sample's modest size limits the extent to which findings ca...
A Kalman Filter Model for Determining Block and Trickle SNM Losses

This paper describes an integrated decision procedure for deciding whether a diversion of SNM has occurred. Two possible types of diversion are considered: a block loss during a single time period and a cumulative trickle loss over several time periods. The methodology used is based on a compound Kaiman filter model. Numerical examples illustrate our approach.
Decapitated Drosophila: A Novel System for the Study of Biogenic Amines

Publisher Summary This chapter reviews recent findings to imply that the linkage to dopamine receptors to specific types of behaviors is also conserved between higher vertebrates and insects. These findings have been obtained utilizing decapitated adult fruit flies, Drosophila melanogaster. Serotonin, dopamine, and octopamine show distinguishable effects when added to the decapitated preparations at millimolar concentrations. All three amines stimulate locomotion and hindleg grooming. Whereas the decapitated flies show a basal level of grooming before addition of amines, locomotion is never observed. Behaviors similar to those induced by dopamine can be induced by application of the vertebrate dopamine D2-like receptor agonist quinpirole. Other vertebrate dopamine agonists and antagonists show effects distinguishable from quinpirole: vertebrate D2-like and D1 -like dopamine antagonists result in akinesia, and D1-like agonists result in a selective stimulation of hindleg grooming without locomotion. The responses of decapitated Drosophila show many resemblances to the effects of vertebrate dopamine-receptor agonists and antagonists after injection into rodents: both D1-like and D2-like receptor agonists stimulate locomotion and sterotype behaviors, with differences in the types of stereotypies induced, and both D1-like and D2-like antagonists lead to an akinesic state. These phenotypic similarities are striking, indicating that if these compounds are interacting with receptors analogous to the vertebrate dopamine receptors, the link to locomotor and stereotyped grooming behaviors occurred very early in evolution, before the split between Drosophila and vertebrates. The vertebrate behavioral responses to dopamine depend on striatal dopamine receptors. It, thus, seems possible that the insect nerve cord contains functions that have been taken over by the forebrain in higher vertebrates. Further resolution of these issues should await identification and detailed study of the Drosophila receptors involved in these responses.
Heritability of late blight resistance in tomato conferred by Solanum pimpinellifolium accession PI 224710

Late blight (LB), caused by the oomycete Phytophthora infestans, is one of the most destructive diseases of tomato and potato worldwide. Identifying and characterizing new sources of resistance is essential given the emergence of new aggressive and fungicide-resistant P. infestans isolates. Recently, we reported identification of several new sources of LB resistance within the tomato wild species, Solanum pimpinellifolium. In this study, we examined heritability (h2) of LB resistance conferred by the S. pimpinellifolium accession PI 224710 using a parent–offspring regression (correlation) analysis. F2 and F3 progeny populations, derived from crosses between PI 224710 and a LB-susceptible tomato breeding line, were evaluated for response to LB infection. To obtain a better estimate of h2, the F3 progeny were evaluated for LB resistance in two separate replicated experiments. The h2 estimates were similar in the two experiments and averaged ~0.87, suggesting that this resistance was highly heritable. Two different methods estimated involvement of one resistance locus. Breeding and mapping efforts are underway to further assess the viability of this newly reported LB resistance.
Rill erosion in natural and disturbed forests: 1. Measurements

[1] Rill erosion can be a large portion of the total erosion in disturbed forests, but measurements of the runoff and erosion at the rill scale are uncommon. Simulated rill erosion experiments were conducted in two forested areas in the northwestern United States on slopes ranging from 18 to 79%. We compared runoff rates, runoff velocities, and sediment flux rates from natural (undisturbed) forests and in forests either burned at low soil burn severity (10 months or 2 weeks post-fire), high soil burn severity, or subject to skidding of felled logs. The runoff rates and velocities in the natural sites (2.7 L min−1 and 0.016 m s−1, respectively) were lower than those in all the disturbed sites (12 to 21 L min−1 and 0.19 to 0.31 m s−1, respectively), except for the 10-month old low soil burn severity site where the velocity (0.073 m s−1) was indistinguishable from the natural sites. The mean sediment flux rate in the natural sites also was very small (1.3 × 10−5 kg s−1) as compared to the rates in the disturbed areas (2.5 × 10−4 to 0.011 kg s−1). The hillslope gradient did not affect the runoff or sediment responses. The sediment flux rates generally were greater in the initial stage of each inflow period than in the steady state condition, but there was no corresponding transient effect in runoff rates. Rill erosion modeling implications based on these data are presented in part 2 of this study.
How it Works: Recovering Citizens in Post‐Welfare Philadelphia – By Robert P. Fairbanks

A review of the book "How It Works: Recovering Citizens in Post-Welfare Philadelphia," by Robert P. Fairbanks is presented.