cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An assessment of coal mine escapeway reliability using fault tree analysis

Abstract The issue of miner safety in case of an underground mine fire has been extensively examined by both government and industry. These efforts have intensified in recent years following a number of fatal fires at underground coal mines. As a result, there is an increasing interest in the reliability of coal mine escapeways during a mine fire. This paper discusses the use of fault tree analysis for evaluating escapeway reliability. A fault tree is developed using standard logic formulations. It is later evaluated using commercially available software. The computer model uses Boolean reduction to obtain the minimal cut sets and minimal path sets of the tree. A brief analysis is also conducted to determine the occurrence probability of the TOP event. This study shows that fault tree analysis is a viable means of analyzing escapeway reliability. The cut and path sets reveal those event sequences leading to fatalities. Such information is useful in safety training and accident prevention. The probability of the TOP event shows the frequency of occurrence for fatalities in an underground mine fire. The usefulness of this value, however, is limited by the accuracy of the data for the initiating events. For mining events, the data are difficult to estimate precisely.
Clarifying the new interpretations of the concept of sustainable building

Abstract A review of definitions of sustainable building shows that the terminology needs clarification as many difficulties exist in identifying sustainability in the built environment. The study starts by examining the recent evolution of the concept of sustainable development. Latest interpretations of this terminology are considered, before analysing what sustainability means in the built environment. This paper focuses on constrains which prevent a simple definition and identification of what is a sustainable building. Systems for sustainability assessments are often insufficient to recognize sustainability of buildings given the strong environmental and technological approach of these systems. In particular, the dependence of the concept of sustainability on time, scale, domain and social uncertainties is discussed. Some requirements for a better definition of a sustainable building are indicated. This paper shows that a greater attention should be given to social and economic aspects. The importance of the cross-scale relationships between a building and its surroundings, together with the ever changing flows between them, limits the possibility to define the sustainability at the level of single building, and it encourages looking at larger and crossing scales. Finally, this paper shows that a building is sustainable if it contributes to the sustainability through its metabolism and by doing this it favours a regenerative resilience of the built environment among all the domains of sustainability.
Salt-Induced Block Copolymer Micelles as Nanoreactors for the Formation of CdS Nanoparticles

Abstract : A novel preparation method of CdS nanoparticles in the core or corona of micelles is presented. Poly(styrene-block-2-vinylpyridine) (PS-b-P2VP) and cadmium ions form aggregates of single micelles, called compound micelles, upon addition of the cadmium acetate salt into a solution of the block copolymer in tetrahydrofuran. The growth of CdS nanoparticles is confined to the core of single micelles after introduction of hydrogen sulfide gas into the solution. UV-visible spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy were employed to characterize the prepared core-embedded CdS nanoparticles. Corona-embedded CdS nanoparticles were prepared by dropping the core-embedded CdS nanoparticles into water with a low pH value. The location change of the CdS nanoparticles was accompanied by a structural change of the micelles, a change from compound micelles to single micelles. In a single micelle, CdS nanoparticles distribute randomly in the corona. The size of the nanoparticles increases slightly after the transition.
Macrofaunal communities within and adjacent to a detritus-rich submarine canyon system

Abstract Macrofaunal abundance, biomass, diversity and species assemblages within Scripps and La Jolla Submarine Canyons are compared with those on the nearby continental shelf and slope. Our primary objective was to examine the effect of detrital aggregates on infaunal communities within canyons. Two submarines, a remotely operated vehicle (ROV), and a Soutar box-corer were used to collect samples. Within the canyons, organic enrichment by macrophyte detritus was evident from canyon heads down to 550 m, and evidence of strong currents (coarse sediment) was found down to 700 m. Infaunal density and biomass were higher in the canyons than outside at all depths where comparative data were available (100–500 m). Infaunal assemblages in canyons were distinct from those at reference stations. Both the canyon and non-canyons samples showed community differentiation with depth. Species diversity was generally high, but decreased with depth outside of canyons and increased with depth within the canyons. Low diversity at shallow depths within the canyon is attributed to a combination of organic enrichment and physical disturbance. Submarine canyons are commonly found to contain distinct species assemblages or higher faunal densities and/or biomass than nearby non-canyon regions at similar depths. Canyons are regular features along most ocean margins and appear to be important as sites of enhanced secondary production, provide diverse habitats, and act as conduits of coastal detritus to the deep-sea.
A Phase II study of CHIP in advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix (a Gynecologic Oncology Group study)

The Gynecologic Oncology Group (GOG) conducted a Phase II trial of CHIP, cis-dichloro-trance-dihydroxybis-(isopropylamine)-platinum IV, in patients with measurable advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix. No prior therapy with cytotoxic drugs was permitted in patients entered into this trial. All patients had a GOG performance status of 2 or better.
Approximate counting of inversions in a data stream

(MATH) Inversions are used as a fundamental quantity to measure the sortedness of data, to evaluate different ranking methods for databases, and in the context of rank aggregation. Considering the volume of the data sets in these applications, the data stream model {14, 2] is a natural setting to design efficient algorithms.We obtain a suite of space-efficient streaming algorithms for approximating the number of inversions in a permutation. The best space bound we achieve is $O(\log n \log \log n)$ through a deterministic algorithm. In contrast, we derive an $\Omega(n)$ lower bound for randomized exact computation for this problem; thus approximation is essential.(MATH) We also consider two generalizations of this problem: (1) approximating the number of inversions between two permutations, for which we obtain a randomized $O(\sqrt{n} \log n)$-space algorithm, and (2) approximating the number of inversions in a general list, for which we obtain a randomized $O(\sqrt{n} \log^2 n)$-space two-pass algorithm. In contrast, we derive $\Omega(n)$-space lower bounds for deterministic approximate computation for these problems; thus both randomization and approximation are essential.All our algorithms use only O(log n) time per data item.
Dystrophin deficiency markedly increases enterovirus-induced cardiomyopathy: A genetic predisposition to viral heart disease

Both enteroviral infection of the heart and mutations in the dystrophin gene can cause cardiomyopathy. Little is known, however, about the interaction between genetic and acquired forms of cardiomyopathy. We previously demonstrated that the enteroviral protease 2A cleaves dystrophin; therefore, we hypothesized that dystrophin deficiency would predispose to enterovirus-induced cardiomyopathy. We observed more severe cardiomyopathy, worsening over time, and greater viral replication in dystrophin-deficient mice infected with enterovirus than in infected wild-type mice. This difference appears to be a result of more efficient release of the virus from dystrophin-deficient myocytes. In addition, we found that expression of wild-type dystrophin in cultured cells decreased the cytopathic effect of enteroviral infection and the release of virus from the cell. We also found that expression of a cleavage-resistant mutant dystrophin further inhibited the virally mediated cytopathic effect and viral release. These results indicate that viral infection can influence the severity and penetrance of the cardiomyopathy that occurs in the hearts of dystrophin-deficient individuals.
Vitamin B6 levels in premenstrual syndrome

To determine whether changes in peripheral vitamin B6 levels are associated with symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), ten PMS patients and ten controls were studied. They gave blood at 2- or 3-day intervals through three menstrual cycles. The vitamin B6 was measured by fluorometry after the serum was heated with semicarbazide, and luteinizing hormone (LH) was measured by radioimmunoassay. In the controls, vitamin B6 values were 15.3 ± 3.0 μg/dl (mean ± SEM) during the luteal phase, and 14.2 ± 3.0 μg/dl during the follicular phase. No significant changes were noted between the two values. In the patients, the values were 14.7 ± 1.9 μg/dl during the luteal phase which was not significantly different from 15.4 ± 3.3 μg/dl during the follicular phase. No significant changes were noted between the controls and the patients in either the luteal or the follicular phase. Although it remains possible that vitamin B6 deficiency may exist in a subgroup of PMS patients, its deficiency was not demonstrated by peri...
Trace anomalies as precursors of field failures: an empirical study

Reproducing and learning from failures in deployed software is costly and difficult. Those activities can be facilitated, however, if the circumstances leading to a failure can be recognized and properly captured. To anticipate failures we propose to monitor system field behavior for simple trace instances that deviate from a baseline behavior experienced in-house. In this work, we empirically investigate the effectiveness of various simple anomaly detection schemes to identify the conditions that precede failures in deployed software. The results of our experiment provide a preliminary assessment of these schemes, and expose the tradeoffs between different anomaly detection algorithms applied to several types of observable attributes under varying levels of in-house testing.
Inducible expression of an hsp68-lacZ hybrid gene in transgenic mice

Transgenic mice have been generated that express the E. coli beta-galactosidase gene under the control of the promoter from the mouse heat-shock gene, hsp68. Sequences from -664 to +113 relative to the start of transcription of the hsp68 gene were sufficient to direct stress-induced expression of the beta-galactosidase gene in adult tail tissue and various tissues of fetal stages of development. Expression was detected in situ by staining with the chromogenic substrate, X-gal. The hybrid gene was refractory to induction in preimplantation embryos until the blastocyst stage of development, as reported for the endogenous hsp68 gene. No constitutive expression was observed by in situ staining or Northern analysis at any stage of development, even in tissues that constitutively express the endogenous hsp68 gene. We conclude that the hsp68 promoter region included in the construct contains sufficient sequence information for heat and arsenite inducibility, but it does not contain sequences controlling tissue-specific expression during development. This tightly regulated inducible promoter may provide a useful tool for short-term inducible gene expression in transgenic mice.
On the validity of trace-driven simulation for multiprocessors

Trace-driven simulation is a commonly-used technique for evaluating multiprocessor memory systems. However, several open questions exist concerning the validity of multiprocessor traces. One is the extent to which tracing induced dilation affects the traces and consequently the results of the simulations. A second is whether the traces generated from multiple runs of the same program will yield the same simulation results. This study examines the variation in simulation results caused by both dilation and multiple runs of the same program on a shared-memory multiprocessor. Overall, our results validate the use of trace-driven simulation for these machines: variability due to dilation and multiple runs appears to be small. However, where small differences in simulated results are crucial to design decisions, multiple traces of parallel applications should be examined.
Challenges and Solutions in Measuring Computer Power Supply Efficiency for 80 PLUS® Certification

This paper discusses the techniques, challenges, and results of measuring computer power supply (CPS) efficiency, power factor (PF), and input harmonic currents for the 80 PLUS® program since its beginning in 2002. To date, over 750 power supplies have been tested with many certified for the 80 PLUS® program. In spite of the large number of power supplies tested and years of testing, there is uncertainty within the computer power supply industry about the correct method for measuring efficiency, power factor, and harmonics. Moreover, in order to improve efficiency at light loading, manufacturers are adopting a duty-cycle control approach to power factor correction that raises even more questions on the proper measurement techniques. This paper presents detailed results of years of computer power supply testing, provides a detailed technical analysis on measurement accuracy with background on why specific measurement techniques were adopted, and looks to the future on upcoming technical difficulties and offers solutions for overcoming these difficulties.
A microbiological assessment of novel nitrofuranylamides as anti-tuberculosis agents

Objectives: Nitrofuranylamides (NFAs) are nitroaromatic compounds that have recently been discovered and have potent anti-tuberculosis (TB) activity. A foundational study was performed to evaluate whether this class of agents possesses microbiological properties suitable for future antimycobacterial therapy. Methods: Five representative compounds of the NFA series were evaluated by standard microbiological assays to determine MICs, MBCs, activity against anaerobic non-replicating persistent Mycobacterium tuberculosis, post-antibiotic effects (PAEs), antibiotic synergy and the basis for resistance. Results: The antimicrobial activity of these compounds was restricted to bacteria of the M. tuberculosis complex, and all compounds were highly active against drug-susceptible and -resistant strains of M. tuberculosis, with MICs 0.0004–0.05 mg/L. Moreover, no antagonism was observed with front-line anti-TB drugs. Activity was also retained against dormant bacilli in two in vitro low-oxygen models for M. tuberculosis persistence. A long PAE was observed, which was comparable to that of rifampicin, but superior to isoniazid and ethambutol. Spontaneous NFA-resistant mutants arose at a frequency of 10 25 –10 27 , comparable to that for isoniazid (10 25 –10 26 ). Some of these mutants exhibited crossresistance to one or both of the nitroimidazoles PA-824 and OPC-67683. Cross-resistance was associated with inactivation of the reduced F420-deazaflavin cofactor pathway and not with inactivation of the Rv3547, the nitroreductase for PA-824 and OPC-67683. Conclusions: Based on these studies, NFAs have many useful antimycobacterial properties applicable to TB chemotherapy and probably possess a unique mode of action that results in good activity against active and dormant M. tuberculosis. Therefore, the further development of lead compounds in this series is warranted.
A switchable PLL frequency synthesizer and hot carrier effects

In this paper, a new strategy of switchable CMOS phase-locked loop frequency synthesizer is proposed, designed and fabricated in 0.5 μm n-well CMOS process. Cadence/Spectre simulation results show that the frequency range of the switchable PLL is between 320 MHz to 1.15 GHz. The experimental results show that the RMS jitter of the PLL changes from 26 ps to 123 ps as output frequency varies. For 700 MHz carrier frequency, the phase noise of PLL reaches as low as -61 dBc/Hz at 10 kHz offset frequency and -104 dBc/Hz at 1 MHz offset frequency. A device degradation model due to hot carrier effects has been used to analyze the jitter and phase noise performance in open loop voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO). The VCO oscillation frequency decreases by approximately 100 to 200 MHz versus the bias voltage and the RMS jitter increases by 40 ps under different PLL output frequencies after 4 hours of stress time.
An improved phase-control system for superconducting low-velocity accelerating structures

It is noted that microphonic fluctuations in the RF eigenfrequency of superconducting (SC) slow-wave structures must be compensated by a fast-tuning system in order to control the RF phase. The tuning system must handle a reactive power proportional to the product of the tuning range and the RF energy content of the resonant cavity. The accelerating field level of many of the SC cavities forming the ATLAS linac has been limited by the RF power capacity of the presently used p-i-n diode based fast-tuner. A new system has been developed, utilizing p-i-n diodes operating immersed in liquid nitrogen, with the diodes controlled by a high-voltage V-groove metal-oxide semiconductor (VMOS) FET driver. The system has operated at reactive power levels above 20 kVA, a factor of four increase over an earlier design. The increased capacity will permit phase stabilization of superconducting resonators at higher field levels. In particular, it has enabled the operation of very-low-velocity superconducting structures at gradients of more than 4 MV/m in the ATLAS positive-ion injector linac. >
Circulation of Coxsackievirus A6 in hand-foot-mouth disease in Guangzhou, 2010-2012.

Hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) is usually caused by Enterovirus 71(EV71), and Coxsackievirus A16 (CV-A16) in Guangzhou, the biggest city of South China. However, Coxsackievirus A6 (CV-A6) were observed increased dramatically from 2010–2012. In order to understand and to describe the epidemiologic and genetic characteristics of CV-A6, specimens of 5482 suspected HFMD cases were collected and examined by real-time fluorescence PCR. All samples positive for enteroviruses were analyzed by descriptive statistics. Phylogenetic analysis of CV-A6 based on the VP1 sequences was performed to investigate molecular and evolutionary characteristics. Coxsackievirus A6 increased dramatically from 9.04% in 2010 to 23.21% in 2012 and became one of the main causative agents of HFMD in Guangzhou. CV-A6 attack rates were highest in one to two year olds (33.14%). Typical clinic symptoms of CV-A6 HFMD include fever (589/720, 81.81%), maculopopular rash and vesicular exanthema around the perioral area (408/720, 56.66%), intraoral (545/720, 75.69%), the buttock (395/720, 54.86%), the trunk (244/720, 33.89%), the knee (188/720, 26.11%), and the dorsal aspects of hands (437/720, 60.69%). Phylogenetic analysis showed the CV-A6 isolates in this study belonged to Cluster A1 and were similar to those found in Shanghai in 2011 and 2012 (JX495148, KC414735), Shenzhen in 2011 (JX473394), Japan in 2011 (AB649243, AB649246), France in 2010(HE572928), Thailand in 2012(JX556564) and Israel in 2012 and 2013(.KF991010, KF991012).
Pattern matching for variation-source identification in manufacturing processes in the presence of unstructured noise

Variation-source identification has received considerable attention from the manufacturing quality improvement community. One widely used method is based on a pattern matching procedure, which identifies process faults by comparing the fault symptom, which is the principal eigenvector of the covariance matrix of the quality measurement, with fault signatures. The presence of unstructured noise as well as the uncertainty due to sampling will cause the direction of the fault symptom to deviate from the corresponding fault signature. The influences of these two effects on pattern matching procedures have previously been studied separately, by assuming either the absence of unstructured noise or the availability of large samples. This paper developes a robust pattern matching procedure that considers both effects simultaneously. Using a machining process as an illustrative example, the paper demonstrates that previous pattern matching procedures can have a remarkably low identification capability when the ass...
Sustained synaptic input to ganglion cells of mudpuppy retina.

1. Intracellular responses were recorded from on-centre and off-centre ganglion cells in isolated eyecups of the mudpuppy, Necturus maculosus. 2. Current—voltage relations were measured in darkness, during illumination of the receptive field centre, and after chemically mediated synaptic inputs were blocked by 4 mM-cobalt chloride. 3. In on-centre cells the membrane potential in darkness was -56±6 mV (mean±S.D.). Addition of Co2+ resulted in an average depolarization of 10 mV and an average decrease in conductance of 2·1 nS. These results suggest that in darkness on-centre cells are tonically inhibited by synaptic input which increases conductance and has a reversal potential more negative than the dark membrane potential. In off-centre cells the membrane potential in darkness was -46±5 mV. Addition of Co2+ caused an average hyperpolarization of 6 mV and an average decrease in conductance of 1·5 nS. These results suggest that in darkness off-centre cells receive a tonic excitatory input which increases conductance and has a reversal potential more positive than the dark membrane potential. 4. In on-centre cells light causes a sustained depolarization. This response involves an increase in a tonic excitatory input which increases conductance and has a reversal potential more positive than the dark membrane potential. 5. In off-centre cells, light causes a sustained hyperpolarization. This response involves an increase in a sustained inhibitory input which increases conductance and has a reversal potential more negative than the dark membrane potential. 6. The depolarizing off-response of off-centre cells is associated with an increase in an excitatory input which increases conductance and has a reversal potential more positive than the dark membrane potential. This response may be due to a temporary increase in the excitatory input which is tonically active in darkness or may reflect an additional excitatory input. 7. It is suggested that in both on- and off-centre ganglion cells the balance of sustained excitatory and inhibitory synaptic inputs determines the resting potential in darkness. Centre illumination alters the balance of these inputs, by increasing one and decreasing the other, to produce the characteristic sustained light responses. 8. The possible presynaptic sources of the sustained excitatory and inhibitory inputs are discussed.
Alcohol and coronary artery calcium prevalence, incidence, and progression: results from the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA)

Background: Alcohol use has been consistently found to have a J-shaped association with coronary heart disease, with moderate drinkers exhibiting a decreased risk compared with both heavy drinkers and nondrinkers. However, results of studies of the association between alcohol use and subclinical coronary artery disease are conflicting. Objective: The objective was to determine whether alcohol is associated with the presence, amount, or progression of coronary calcium over a 2- to 4-y period. Design: The Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA) is a prospective community-based cohort study of subclinical cardiovascular disease in a multi-ethnic cohort. In 2000-2002, 6814 participants free of clinical cardiovascular disease were enrolled at 6 participating centers. Results: The subjects consisted of 3766 (55.5%) current drinkers, 1635 (24.1%) former drinkers, and 1390 (20.5%) never drinkers. Although light-to-moderate alcohol consumption was associated with lower coronary heart disease risk, we found no evidence of a protective or J-shaped association of alcohol and coronary artery calcium (CAC). In fact, there was evidence that heavy consumption of hard liquor was associated with greater CAC accumulation. Other alcoholic beverages were not associated with CAC prevalence, incidence, or progression. Conclusions: This was the first large study to evaluate the association of alcohol with CAC in 4 racial-ethnic groups and to evaluate the progression of calcification. These results suggest that the cardiovascular benefits that may be derived from light-to-moderate alcohol consumption are not mediated through reduced CAC accumulation.
Electronic tags and genetics explore variation in migrating steelhead kelts (Oncorhynchus mykiss), Ninilchik River, Alaska

Acoustic and archival tags examined freshwater and marine migrations of postspawn steelhead kelts (Oncorhyn- chus mykiss) in the Ninilchik River, Alaska, USA. Postspawn steelhead were captured at a weir in 2002-2005. Scale anal- ysis indicated multiple migratory life histories and spawning behaviors. Acoustic tags were implanted in 99 kelts (2002- 2003), and an array of acoustic receivers calculated the average speed of outmigration, timing of saltwater entry, and dura- tion of residency in the vicinity of the river mouth. Ocean migration data were recovered from two archival tags implanted in kelts in 2004 (one male and one female). Archival tags documented seasonal differences in maximum depth and behav- ior with both fish spending 97% of time at sea <6 m depth (day and night). All study fish were double tagged with passive integrated transponder (PIT) tags implanted in the body cavity. Less than 4% of PIT tags were retained in postspawn steel- head. Molecular genetics demonstrated no significant differences in genetic population structure across years or among spawning life history types, suggesting a genetically panmictic population with highly diverse life history characteristics in the Ninilchik River. Resume´ : Des etiquettes acoustiques et des etiquettes aarchivage nous ont permis de suivre les migrations en eau douce et en mer de becards de la truite arc-en-ciel anadrome (Oncorhynchus mykiss) apres la fraie dans la riviere Ninilchik, Alaska, E ´ .-U. Les truites arc-en-ciel apres la fraie ont etecapturees aun deversoir en 2002-2005. Une analyse hierar- chique revele l'existence de multiples cycles biologiques migratoires et comportements reproducteurs. Nous avons muni 99 becards d'etiquettes acoustiques (2002-2003) et un reseau de recepteurs acoustiques a permis de calculer la vitesse de migration vers la mer, le calendrier de l'entree en eau salee et la dureed e residence dans les environs de l'embouchure de la riviere. Les donnees de migration en mer ont eteobtenues de deux etiquettes a archivage fixees ades becards en 2004 (un male et une femelle). Les etiquettes aarchivage ont relevedes differences saisonnieres dans la profondeur maximale et le comportement; les deux poissons ont passe ´ 97 % de leur temps en mer aune profondeur <6 m (jour et nuit). Tous les poissons utilises dans l'etude portaient aussi une etiquette PIT (transpondeur integrepassif) implantee dans la cavite ´ corporelle. Moins de 4 % des etiquette PIT ont eteretenues chez les becards apres la fraie. Une analyse genetique molecu- laire ne montre aucune difference significative de structure genetique de la population, ni d'une anneeal'autre, ni en fonc- tion des types de cycle biologique reproducteur, ce qui laisse croire al'existence dans la Ninilchik d'une population genetiquement panmictique possedant des caracteristiques hautement diversifiees de cycle biologique. (Traduit par la Redaction)
Application of Protective Relays on a Large Industrial-Utility Tie with Industrial Cogeneration

The recent emphasis on the simultaneous production of electric power and steam within the confines of the industrial plant, often utilizing waste products from the industrial process as fuel, has resulted in renewed interest in the problems of applying protective relaying at the interface between the cogenerating industrial facility and the electric utility. This paper will review the considerations that must be taken into account at the consumer-utility interconnection and will suggest protective practices for these tie points.
A Home Balance Exercise Program Improves Walking in People With Cerebellar Ataxia

Background. Physical therapy intervention is the primary treatment for gait ataxia and imbalance in individuals with cerebellar damage. Our aim was to determine if a home balance exercise program is feasible for improving locomotor and balance abilities in these individuals. Methods. A total of 14 patients with cerebellar ataxia participated in a 6-week individualized home-based balance exercise program and attended 5 testing sessions (2 pretraining, 1 midtraining, 1 posttraining, and 1 one-month follow-up visit). Pretraining, posttraining, and follow-up testing included a neurological assessment, clinical gait and balance tests, and laboratory assessments of balance and walking. Participants kept logs of the frequency and level of balance challenge during their training. Results. Walking speed improved across visits, as did stride length, percentage double-limb support time, Timed Up and Go (TUG), and Dynamic Gait Index. Post hoc comparisons in these measures revealed that significant rehabilitative impr...
Improving the United States airline industry's capacity to provide safe and dignified services to travelers with disabilities: focus group findings.

Purpose. As a component of a training development project for intercity air travel providers, we investigated the capacity of the airline industry to meet the needs of travelers with disabilities by exploring: (1) the level of sensitivity among personnel to travelers' needs, (2) training currently provided, (3) areas in which additional training might be beneficial, and (4) organisational/systems-level commitment to dignified assistance to all travelers.Method. Forty-four airline/vendor employees participated in nine focus groups in four US cities. Groups were audio recorded and transcribed. A grounded-theory approach was used to develop a coding system which was then applied to transcripts to identify themes.Results. Factors influencing capacity grouped broadly into four areas: characteristics of the job/system, characteristics of current training, characteristics of providers themselves, and characteristics of travelers. At an interpersonal level, providers were empathetic and desired to provide dignifi...
Solubility of NaNd(CO3)2.6H2O(c) in Mixed Electrolyte (Na-Cl-CO3-HCO3) and Synthetic Brine Solutions

Experiments were conducted to evaluate the solubility of neodyrrrium(III) in mixed electrolyte solutions (Nd3+-Na+-Cl−-CO3 2−-HCO3 −-H2O) and in two synthetic brines under different partial pressures of CO2. The stable solid phase in solutions containing concentrated NaCl (2 m and 4 m)/Na2CO3 (0.1 to 2.0 m) and NaCl (2 m)/NaHCO3 (0.1 to 1.0 m) was identified by X-ray diffraction to be NaNd(CO3)2.6H2O(c), which is the same equilibrium solid phase previously observed in solutions of single electrolytes (Na2CO3 or NaHCO3 in the absence of NaCl). Using Pitzer’s specific ion-interaction approach, ternary ion interaction parameters were developed for Na+-Cl−-Nd(CO3)3 3− and incorporated into the previous data base for the single electrolyte, non-chloride systems. The resulting model developed from these experiments provided satisfactory interpretation of the concentration of neodymium in the mixed electrolyte solutions of this study. Model predictions were tested against the experimental measurements of the solubility of Nd(III) in two synthetic brines equilibrated with carbon dioxide at partial pressures of PCO2 = 10−3.5 atm and 1 atm. The model predictions of the total neodymium concentration in these two brines agree with the experimental results showing deviations less than one order of magnitude. In addition, the model provides a good prediction of the solubility of NaAm(CO3)2(c) in 5.6 m NaCl solution equilibrated with carbon dioxide over a wide range of carbonate concentrations.
Persistent microbial dysbiosis in preterm premature rupture of membranes from onset until delivery

Background. Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes (PPROM) is a major leading cause of preterm births. While the cause for PPROM remains unidentified, it is anticipated to be due to subclinical infection, since a large proportion of PPROM patients display signs of chorioamnionitis. Since subclinical infections can be facilitated by dysbiosis, our goal was to characterize the vaginal microbiome and amniotic fluid discharge upon PPROM, through latency antibiotic treatment, and until delivery, to detect the presence of pathogens, microbiota alteration, and microbial response to treatment. Methods. Enrolled subjects (15) underwent routine institutional antenatal care for PPROM, including the administration of latency antibiotics. Serial vaginal swabs were obtained from diagnosis of PPROM through delivery and the sequencing of the V3-V5 region of the 16S rRNA gene was performed for all collected samples. Results. The results show that Lactobacilli species were markedly decreased when compared to vaginal swabs collected from uncomplicated pregnancy subjects with a matched gestational time. Prevotella and Peptoniphilus were the most prevalent taxa in PPROM subjects at presentation. The vaginal microbiome of the PPROM subjects varied substantially intra- and inter-subjects. Several taxa were found to be significantly reduced during and after the antibiotic treatment: Weeksella, Lachnospira, Achromobacter, and Pediococcus. In contrast, Peptostreptococcus and Tissierellaceae ph2 displayed a significant increase after the antibiotic treatment. However, the relative abundance of Lactobacillus, Prevotella, and Peptoniphilus was not substantially impacted during the hospitalization of the PPROM subjects. The deficiency of Lactobacillus, and constancy of known pathogenic species, such as Prevotella and Peptoniphilus during and after antibiotics, highlights the persistent dysbiosis and warrants further investigation into mitigating approaches. Discussion. PPROM is responsible for one third of all preterm births. It is thought that subclinical infection is a crucial factor in the pathophysiology of PPROM because 25-40% of patients present signs of chorioamnionitis on amniocentesis. Here we sought to directly assess the bacterial content of the vagina and leaking amniotic fluid of subjects at presentation, throughout treatment and up until delivery, in order to search for common pathogens, microbiota changes, and microbial response to latency antibiotic treatment. We have found that the vaginal microbiome of PPROM subjects is highly variable and displays significant changes to treatment. However, the unchanging deficiency of Lactobacillus, and persistence of known pathogenic species, such as Prevotella and Peptoniphilus from presentation, through antibiotic treatment and up until delivery, highlights the persistent dysbiosis and warrants further investigation into mitigating approaches.
Electrical Resistance of Laser Sintered Direct-Write Deposited Materials for Microelectronic Applications

The direct write technology provides an interesting opportunity for plugging blind via holes as a more precise alternative to currently used screen printing processes. This technology provides a complete, void-less filling of the via and fabrication of the interconnects extending from the via in one single step. After deposition, the material is heat treated (sintered) to densify into a highly conductive solid. Sintering is usually accomplished by laser treatment. Some aspects of this relatively new technology, especially these related to the relationships between the laser sintering process and the deposited material properties are still largely unexplored. This paper presents experimental results for the microscale electrical resistance of two silver inks deposited by a direct write method and sintered with a continuous wave Nd:YAG laser. The resistance of the deposited and sintered silver lines and the resistance of the material in the plugged via holes was mapped by the advanced micro four-point probe...
Method of Producing Open Skin Wounds Uniformly Infected with Staphylococci, Suitable for Local Chemotherapy Studies.

SummaryThis report describes a method of producing and dressing open skin wounds so that a uniform standardly infected wound can be made for controlled topical chemo-therapy studies, with healing time by sec-ondary intention used as the main criterion of the effectiveness of the therapy. If desired, as described in the previous paper,1 histolog-ical studies of epithelization and granulation can be made on biopsied wounds, in addition to the determination of healing time.
Epidemiological study of influenza in Shenzhen in 2010

Objective To study the epidemiological features of influenza in Shenzhen in 2010 and to determine the mode of influenza circulation.Method Data concerning influenza-like illness (ILI) from 31 monitoring stations were collected and analyzed.Results The rate of ILI was 5.43% in 2010.A total of 4 031 swab samples were collected and 445 strains were isolated.11% of the samples were positive,in which 14 strains were seasonal H1N1 subtype (3.1%),42 strains were seasonal H3N2 subtype (9.4%),171 strains were new H1N1 subtype (38.4%),213 strains were type B victoria-lineage (47.9%),and 5 strains were type B Yamagata-lineage (1.1%).A total of 89 outbreaks were reported,741 patients were infected during the outbreaks.79 outbreaks were found to be positive for influenza,in which 6 outbreaks were caused by seasonal A type (6.8%),67 outbreaks by type B (75.3%) and 6 outbreaks by the new H1N1 influenza (6.8%).Conclusion The incidence of influenza was low in 2010.
Different Storage Conditions have Different Whisker Growth Mechanisms-Can Bright Tin be an Alternative to Matt Tin ?

With the three iNEMI storage conditions for testing the whisker growth having become widely accepted, an extensive data base has been generated at the IC assembly houses, connector manufacturers and plating electrolyte suppliers as to understand the reasons and circumstances of this troublesome phenomenon. It has been found that whiskers from pure tin can develop during all different conditions. The underlying growth mechanism however varies for the individual circumstances and no single solution exists to prevent whiskers in general. Only a combination of preventive measures, each targeting a singular growth mechanism, can become the universal mitigation solution.
Consensus-Based Distributed MIMO Decoding Using Semidefinite Relaxation

A distributed algorithm is developed for decoding a message broadcasted from a wireless multi-antenna access point to a network of single-antenna (sensor) nodes. Sensors exchange local messages to reach consensus on the transmitted message. Different from recent distributed detectors where the amount of information exchanges increases exponentially with the alphabet size (i.e., the number of hypotheses tested), the novel consensus-based approach introduced here relies on semi-definite relaxation techniques and can afford inter-sensor exchanges of polynomial order. The resultant near-optimum convexified problem is solved in a distributed fashion using the alternating direction method of multipliers. No constraint is imposed on the network topology so long as it remains fully connected. Preliminary simulations demonstrate the merits of the novel distributed detection algorithm.
Thoracoscopic bilateral T3 sympathectomy for primary focal hyperhidrosis in children

Abstract Aim of the study Present our experience in the surgical treatment of primary focal hyperhidrosis of the hands by thoracoscopic bilateral T3 sympathectomy in pediatric patients. Methods Retrospective chart review of all patients operated between 2013 and 2015. Results We operated and included in the study 28 patients, 22 females and 6 males. Mean age was 14 (6–21) years. All patients had previously tried at least one form of medical therapy with no success. All patients were extensively counseled regarding the potential side effects of the sympathectomy. The operations were done in supine position with the arms extended. All patients were intubated with a double-lumen endotracheal tube for sequential lung isolation. We used a 5-mm port for the scope and a 3-mm port for the instruments, both placed in the axilla. The third rib was identified by fluoroscopy. The sympathectomy was done with monopolar cautery. Mean operative time was 43 (25–71) minutes. No chest tubes were used. The incidence of intraoperative or postoperative complications was zero. All patients were discharged within the first 24 postoperative hours. All patients achieved immediate complete postoperative resolution of the palmar hyperhidrosis, sustained in all cases at a median follow-up of 17 (2–34) months. The mean preoperative quality of life score (based on a multifunctional self-assessment questionnaire) was 41/100, whereas after the operation, it was 92/100. Only 1 patient developed temporary compensatory sweating. All patients were satisfied with the result of the operation. Conclusion Thoracoscopic bilateral T3 sympathectomy is a safe and effective treatment for children and adolescents with primary focal hyperhidrosis of the hands who failed medical management and have a very low rate of compensatory sweating. Level of evidence IV
Translating scientific evidence into global health policy: Making mental health count for individuals' and populations' health

Scientific evidence in all sciences, inclusive of the brain and neurosciences as well as in assessing health systems’ performance is rapidly evolving in the 21st century. This new evidence is augmenting the understanding of the brain and its functions, its transactions with the human genome, the microbiome,Β the social determinantsΒ of health, and the dominant global burden of diseases presented by non-communicable diseases, inclusive of mental disorders, and their comorbidities. Together they are stimulating new research and innovation in addressing the challenges of primary, secondary and tertiary prevention continuum as well as the current health systems’ fragmentation. The author presents contemporary scientific evidence, its impact on developing Total Health models of integrated health systems, and its translation into global health policy to benefit individuals’ and populations’ health.
"Como hacen los moros a los cristianos": Raza, género e identidad cultural en "Tarde llega el desengaño" de María de Zayas

Este articulo analiza como “Tarde llega el desengano” de Maria de Zayas se articula en torno a dos espacios orientalizantes: el haren y el estrado. El haren constituye una figura imaginaria que aparece reduplicado de forma fragmentaria en diversas instancias, representando en unas ocasiones un espacio amenazante que implica la reversibilidad de los roles de genero, mientras que en otras se transforma en una fantasia de dominio masculino. Por el contrario, el estrado, un espacio heredero del periodo islamico, constituye el lugar de sociabilidad femenina privilegiado en la sociedad espanola del siglo XVII. A traves de la oposicion entre estos dos espacios orientalizantes, “Tarde llega el desengano” explora la interrelacion entre los discursos sobre la identidad de genero, la jerarquizacion racial y la otredad etno-religiosa para exponer como las categorias sociales son conceptos relacionales y situacionales cuyo significado se redefine segun las relaciones de poder de cada contexto.
Myocutaneous Gracilis Free Flaps in Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction: A Systematic Review Comparing Variations of the Upper Gracilis Flap.

Background The transverse upper gracilis (TUG) flap has gained increasing acceptance as a reliable option for breast reconstruction, specifically in patients without adequate abdominal tissue. Three major flap designs of the upper gracilis flap have been proposed to balance volume needs with flap vascularity. A systematic review was performed to identify outcomes of the major gracilis flaps: TUG, vertical-transverse upper gracilis (V-TUG), and longitudinal gracilis myocutaneous (LGM) flaps. This study is the first and only systematic review to date reviewing the variations of the upper gracilis flap in microsurgical breast reconstruction. Methods A systematic review of the literature was conducted using PubMed database from 1966 through 2015. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied. Outcomes assessed included total flap volumes, additional breast procedures to achieve intended breast volume, and complication rates. Results A total of 485 gracilis-type flaps were performed in 335 patients. V-TUG flaps provided the largest mean flap weights and did not require additional lipofilling or implant placement, whereas the majority of TUG flaps (50.6%) required additional fat grafting or implant placements. All flap types demonstrated a low incidence of donor-site morbidity. Overall flap loss rate was low; TUG flaps reported 2.3% total and 2.0% partial flap losses, while V-TUG and LGM flaps reported no flap losses. Conclusion This review found V-TUG yielded highest mean flap weights and did not require additional breast augmentation procedures as compared with the TUG. Also, the V-TUG was a safer donor-site option with fewer flap and donor-site morbidities.
Bypass capacitance and voltage ripple considerations for resonant switched capacitor converters

Resonant switched capacitor dc-dc converter designs are commonly optimized based on flying capacitance constraints. However, for an actual circuit design, the total available capacitance is further constrained by the need for bypass capacitance at the input and output nodes. This work finds expressions for the voltage ripple and develops a method to optimize the allocation of bypass capacitance so that a circuit designer can make an informed decision about the various trade-offs involving the allocation of capacitance. It will introduce a framework to effectively analyze input and output ripple and then apply this method to different converter topologies.
Evaluating optical hazards from plasma arc cutting

The Health Hazard Evaluation Program of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health evaluated a steel building materials manufacturer. The employer requested the evaluation because of concerns about optical radiation hazards from a plasma arc cutting system and the need to clarify eye protection requirements for plasma operators, other employees, and visitors. The strength of the ultraviolet radiation, visible radiation (light), and infrared radiation generated by the plasma arc cutter was measured at various distances from the source and at different operating amperages. Investigators also observed employees performing the plasma arc cutting. Optical radiation above safe levels for the unprotected eyes in the ultraviolet-C, ultraviolet-B, and visible light ranges were found during plasma arc cutting. In contrast, infrared and ultraviolet-A radiation levels during plasma arc cutting were similar to background levels. The highest non-ionizing radiation exposures occurred when no welding curtains were used. A plasma arc welding curtain in place did not eliminate optical radiation hazards to the plasma arc operator or to nearby employees. In most instances, the measured intensities for visible light, UV-C, and UV-B resulted in welding shade lens numbers that were lower than those stipulated in the OSHA Filter Lenses for Protection Against Radiant Energy table in 29 CFR 1910.133(a)(5). [1] Investigators recommended using a welding curtain that enclosed the plasma arc, posting optical radiation warning signs in the plasma arc cutter area, installing audible or visual warning cues when the plasma arc cutter was operating, and using welding shades that covered the plasma arc cutter operator's face to protect skin from ultraviolet radiation hazards.