cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An assessment of RPN prioritization in a failure modes effects and criticality analysis

The risk priority number (RPN) methodology for prioritizing failure modes is an integral part of the automobile FMECA technique. The technique consists of ranking the potential failures from 1 to 10 with respect to their severity, probability of occurrence, and likelihood of detection in later tests, and multiplying the numbers together. The result is a numerical ranking, called the RPN, on a scale from 1 to 1000. Potential failure modes having higher RPNs are assumed to have a higher design risk than those having lower numbers. Although it is well documented and easy to apply, the method is seriously flawed from a technical perspective. This makes the interpretation of the analysis results problematic. The problems with the methodology include the use of the ordinal ranking numbers as numeric quantities, the presence of holes making up a large part of the RPN measurement scale, duplicate RPN values with very different characteristics, and varying sensitivity to small changes. Recommendations for an improved methodology are also given.
Audio super-resolution using concatenative resynthesis

This paper utilizes a recently introduced non-linear dictionary-based denoising system in another voice mapping task, that of transforming low-bandwidth, low-bitrate speech into high-bandwidth, high-quality speech. The system uses a deep neural network as a learned nonlinear comparison function to drive unit selection in a concatenative synthesizer based on clean recordings. This neural network is trained to predict whether a given clean audio segment from the dictionary could be transformed into a given segment of the degraded observation. Speaker-dependent experiments on the small-vocabulary CHiME2-GRID corpus show that this model is able to resynthesize high quality clean speech from degraded observations. Preliminary listening tests show that the system is able to improve subjective speech quality evaluations by up to 50 percentage points, while a similar system based on non-negative matrix factorization and trained on the same data produces no significant improvement.
Estimating a Small Signal in the Presence of Large Noise

Video magnification techniques are useful for visualizing small changes in videos. For instance, Eulerian video magnification has been used to visualize the flow of blood in the human face. Such visualizations have possible applications in remote monitoring or screening for diseases. However, when visualizing blood flow, the signal of interest may be similar in amplitude to the noise in the video. This raises the question of what one is actually seeing in a magnified video: signal or noise? We seek to understand these signal and noise characteristics with the goal of producing informative and accurate visualizations. We present a preliminary algorithm for estimating the signal amplitude in the presence of relatively high noise. We demonstrate that the algorithm can be used to accurately estimate the signal amplitude in an uncompressed simulated video, but is susceptible to compression noise and motion.
Association of Some Metabolic Activities of Leukocytes with the Immune Response

Phagocytosis is a physiological function of many different mammalian cell types. These phagocytic cells remove dead cells, tissue, and foreign substances from the body by engulfment and digestion of these materials. Some phagocytic cells, notably the neutrophils, monocytes and macrophages, also serve as primary factors in the host-defense mechanism by engulfing, killing and digesting pathogenic microorganisms. Macrophages have also been implicated in the killing of tumor cells and the humoral immune response. Stimulation of a number of biochemical and metabolic parameters has been associated with phagocytosis. These include increased glucose utilization, 114C-glucose oxidation, 614C-glucose oxidation, oxygen consumption, NADPH oxidase activity, peroxidase activity, superoxide anion production, H2O2 production and chemoluminescence. These biochemical and metabolic activities of phagocytes and their relationship to particle engulfment and intracellular microbicidal activity have been reviewed in detail by Karnovsky (11) and others (23). This report will be concerned with the association of some metabolic activities of mouse macrophages and the immune response. It seems as if some of the metabolic activities that have been related to phagocytosis and killing of microorganisms by macrophage and neutorphils may also be associated with cellular and humoral immunity.
Reputation-Based Internet Protocol Security: A Multilayer Security Framework for Mobile Ad Hoc Networks

This research effort examines the theory, application, and results for a Reputation-based Internet Protocol Security (RIPSec) framework that provides security for an ad-hoc network operating in a hostile environment. In RIPSec, protection from external threats is provided in the form of encrypted communication links and encryption-wrapped nodes while internal threats are mitigated by behavior grading that assigns reputations to nodes based on their demonstrated participation in the routing process. Network availability is provided by behavior grading and round-robin multipath routing. If a node behaves faithfully, it earns a positive reputation over time. If a node misbehaves (for any number of reasons, not necessarily intentional), it earns a negative reputation. Each member of the MANET has its own unique and subjective set of Reputation Indexes (RI) that enumerates the perceived reputation of the other MANET nodes. Nodes that desire to send data will eliminate relay nodes they perceive to have a negative reputation during the formulation of a route. A 50-node MANET is simulated with streaming multimedia and varying levels of misbehavior to determine the impact of the framework on network performance. Results of this research were very favorable. Analysis of the simulation data shows the number of routing errors sent in a MANET is reduced by an average of 52% when using RIPSec. The network load is also reduced, decreasing the overall traffic introduced into the MANET and permitting individual nodes to perform more work without overtaxing their limited resources. Finally, throughput is decreased due to larger packet sizes and longer round trips for packets to traverse the MANET, but is still sufficient to pass traffic with high bandwidth requirements (i.e., video and imagery) that is of interest in military networks.
Self paced learning: a student perspective

Training reform in Australian Vocational Education and Training (VET) has been well under way for over a decade. Reforms include marketisation, the widespread adoption of competency-based training, and most recently an adoption of various forms of flexible delivery. One of these alternative methods of delivery is self paced learning (SPL). SPL is presented by VET management as being advantageous to students and their employers, and in addition is generally less resource-intensive than face-to-face teaching. This paper examines SPL in a TAFE college from a student viewpoint. The research, using qualitative methods, examined the experiences of SPL, in Office Administration subjects, of students who have a Non English Speaking Background (NESB) or no regular access to computers. The paper describes how they adapted, reacted and responded to self paced learning. The difficulties experienced by these students when studying by self paced learning are discussed in detail The findings indicate that, whilst students are appreciative of the flexibility which self paced learning affords, there are some concerns about its efficacy in relation to educational outcomes.
Combined gas and heat exchange in extracorporeal circulation.

SummaryThe advantages of combining oxygenation and heat exchange in a single unit are described. A modification of the vertical screen oxygenator is proposed in which the screens are replaced by plates, on the surface of which blood is filmed for oxygenation, and through the center of which liquid flows to effect heat exchange. The oxygenating and heat exchange capacity of one plate are studied and compared with similar functions in separate oxygenators and heat exchangers. The data suggest that a multi-plate unit should provide adequate oxygenating capacity and superior heat exchange capacity.
The Clinical Significance of Detecting Tidal Breathing Flow Volume Curve for Infants with Bronchiolitis

Objective To explore the variational rule on trachea resistance of infants with bronchiolitis by detecting tidal breathing flow volume curves of 240 cases of infants with bronchiolitis.Methods When the infants with bronchiolitis being under tidal breathing state,the tidal breathing flow volume curves were continuously recorded by using automatic infant pulmonary function apparatus(type 2600 by Sensor Medics of USA) to detect their pulmonary functions.Results The trachea resistance of all infants increased with various degrees,especially in small trachea.The degree of increased trachea resistance was positively correlated with the acuity of illness of the infants.Conclusion The tidal breathing flow volume curve of infants with bronchiolitis should be detected as soon as possible so as to judge the acuity of illness and to provide basis for treatment and nursing care.The method of detecting tidal breathing flow volume curve is noninvasive and easy.It could be widely applied in clinic.
Forensic Psychiatry and Forensic Psychology: Mental Handicap and Learning Disability

Forensic science and mental retardation are unfamiliar acquaintances, with little research completed in forensic contexts on this special population. Advocacy in the United States has advanced special education and opportunities for special needs, and challenged stigma by replacing mental retardation with its new designation, intellectual disability. Educational mainstreaming and workplace opportunities for the intellectually disabled and especially the learning-disordered are more legally protected than ever before. Advocacy against the death penalty has dramatically impacted newly rewritten definitions of intellectual disability as well, with uncertain implications for criminal law and its trend of deference to psychiatry for guidance.
γ-Carboxyglutamic Acid, a Component in Human Pediatric Bladder Stones Containing Calcium Salts

Abstract The amino acid γ-carboxyglutamic acid (Gla) has been previously detected In the vitamin K-requiring blood clotting factors, proteins of calcified vertebrate tissue, renal tissue, plasma protein C, ectopic calcifications, and calcium-containing renal calculi. This paper reports the presence of Gla in the EDTA-soluble, non-dlalyzable material recovered from human pediatric bladder stones containing calcium salts. In bladder stones composed of calcium oxalate, uric acid and ammonium acid urate, 73 Gla residues per 1,000 amino acid residues were detected. Bladder stones composed of calcium oxalate, uric acid, ammonium acid urate, and hydroxyapatite contained 48 Gla residues per 1,000 amino acid residues present. No Gla was detected in the predominantly magnesium ammonium phosphate (struvite) bladder stones. These results with human bladder stones from children under 10 years of age are consistant with the observations from adult patients in which Gla was detected in the calcium-containing renal calculi but not in the non-calcium-containing renal calculi. The present study adds to the growing body of information concerning the possible role of Gla in normal and abnormal calcium metabolism.
Teacher Beliefs and Responses toward Student Misbehavior: Influence of Cognitive Skill Deficits.

ABSTRACTThis study aimed to examine whether having knowledge of student cognitive skill deficits changes teacher beliefs and responses in regard to classroom misbehavior. Teachers (N = 272) were randomly assigned to an experimental or control condition. Although teachers in both conditions read the same vignette describing a student's misbehavior, the experimental group also reviewed information about the student's cognitive skill deficits. Teachers provided with cognitive skill deficit information were, on average, less likely to believe the student had control over the misbehavior, suggesting perceptions of unintentionality. Furthermore, they were significantly more likely to indicate positive emotional responses. Results suggest that school psychologists may consider sharing cognitive skill deficits information with teachers who are working with students displaying challenging behavior.
Trends in US malpractice payments in dentistry compared to other health professions - dentistry payments increase, others fall.

Background Little is known about trends in the number of malpractice payments made against dentists and other health professionals. Knowledge of these trends will inform the work of our professional organisations. Methods The National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB) in the United States was utilised. Data about malpractice payments against dentists, hygienists, nurses, optometrists, pharmacists, physicians (DO and MD), physicians' assistants, podiatrists, psychologists, therapists and counsellors during 2004–14 were studied. Variables include type of healthcare provider, year malpractice payment was made and range of payment amount. Results In 2004 there were 17,532 malpractice payments against the studied health professions. In 2014 there were 11,650. In 2004, the number of malpractice payments against dentists represented 10.3% of all payments and in 2014 it represented 13.4%. Number of malpractice payments against dentists in 2012–2014 increased from 1,388 to 1,555. Conclusions There is an upward pressure on the number of dental malpractice payments over the last 3 years. Concurrently, there is a downward pressure on the number of combined non-dentist healthcare professional malpractice payments.
Methylseleninic Acid (MSA) Decreases DNA Synthesis, Induces Cell Death, and Sensitizes Both Rituximab Sensitive and Rituximab-Resistant Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Cell Lines to the Anti-Tumor Activity of Cisplatin and Gemcitabine.

Abstract Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element with antioxidant properties. Examination of the dietary intake of Se in more than 25 countries found an inverse correlation with total age-adjusted cancer mortality. In addition, other investigator had shown that low serum levels of Se correlate with an adverse outcome in patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) undergoing anthracycline-base chemotherapy. Various Se compounds had been developed and are undergoing preclinical testing such as MSA or Sodium selenite (SS). SS has been shown to decrease PKCg activity and induce apoptosis in murine lymphomas. In an attempt to further evaluate the role of Se in human lymphomas we studied the effects of MSA in a panel of rituximab-sensitive (RSCL) and rituximab-resistant cell lines (RRCL). Resistant clones were generated by chronic exposure of Raji, RL or DHL-4 cells to escalating doses of rituximab with (4RH) or without (2R) human complement. Functional assays were performed to demonstrate decrease in rituximab sensitivity on RRCL. In addition, resistance to chemotherapy (CDDP, doxorubicin, vincristine, etc.) agents was demonstrated in RRCL. Lymphoma cells were exposed in vitro to MSA (0 to 5mM) with or without CDDP (0 to 10mM) or gemcitabine (0 to 10mM). Following a 72 hour-period of MSA-drug exposure, changes in mitochondrial potential were determined by alamar blue reduction measured at 30 minutes intervals over a 48 hr period. In addition, changes in DNA synthesis and cell proliferation following drug exposure were performed using standard [3H]-thymidine incorporation assays. MSA induced dose-dependent cell death and a decrease in DNA synthesis in all the cell lines tested (both RSCL and RRCL). Up to a 50% reduction in mitochondrial potential and cell viability was observed in RRCL or RSCL exposed to 5mM of MSA. Incubation of RSCL and RRCL to 5mM of MSA induced synergistic cytotoxic and anti-proliferative effects when combined with CDDP or gemcitabine. Our data demonstrates that MSA is active against various RSCL and RRCL and potentiates the anti-tumor effects of chemotherapy agents. Our findings strongly suggest that MSA added to systemic chemotherapy (i.e. combination of gemcitabine and cisplatin) may result in a novel and potent salvage regimen against relapsed/refractory B-cell lymphomas.
Trauma-Informed Social Work Practice with Women with Disabilities: Working with Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence.

Women with disabilities experience intimate partner violence (IPV) at higher rates than both nondisabled women and men, and men with disabilities. Their significant exposure to IPV suggests notable levels of trauma-related symptomology. However, there is a dearth of research on trauma and IPV among women with disabilities, and services tailored to their diverse strengths and needs are scarce. Guided by critical disability theory and feminist disability theory, this article describes culturally sensitive, trauma- informed approaches to practice with female survivors of IPV with disabilities.
Prevalence of Prior Cancer Among Persons Newly Diagnosed With Cancer: An Initial Report From the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program

Importance The US cancer survivor population is rapidly growing. Cancer survivors are frequently excluded from cancer clinical trials and observational research. Objective To examine prevalence of prior cancer among individuals newly diagnosed with cancer. Design, Setting, and Participants Linked observations across the population-based Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program of cancer registries (1975-2013) for 740 990 persons newly diagnosed with cancer from January 2009 through December 2013. Prevalence of prior cancer was estimated by age ( Main Outcomes and Measures Prevalence of prior cancer was derived from SEER sequence numbers, which represent the order of all primary reportable tumors diagnosed in a lifetime. Incident cancers were categorized as: (1) first or only primary; (2) second order or higher primary in the same cancer site; and (3) second order or higher primary in a different cancer site. Results Of 765 843 incident cancers diagnosed between 2009 and 2013, 141 021 (18.4%) represented a second order or higher primary cancer. Overall, approximately one-fourth (25.2%) of older (≥65 years) and 11% of younger adults newly diagnosed with cancer had a history of prior cancer. Prevalence of prior cancer ranged from 3.5% to 36.9% according to incident cancer type and age, with most prior cancers diagnosed in a different cancer site. Conclusions and Relevance A substantial proportion of patients diagnosed with incident cancer in the United States have survived a prior cancer. These patients may be excluded from clinical trials and underrepresented in observational research, and little is known about their treatment and survivorship needs. Understanding the nature and impact of prior cancer is critical to improving clinical trial accrual and generalizability, disease outcomes, and patient experience.
Revised Parallel Analysis With Nonnormal Ability and a Guessing Parameter

Previous work showing that revised parallel analysis can be effective with dichotomous items has used a two-parameter model and normally distributed abilities. In this study, both two- and three-parameter models were used with normally distributed and skewed ability distributions. Relatively minor skew and kurtosis in the underlying ability distribution had almost no effect on Type I error for unidimensional data and reduced power for two-dimensional data slightly with smaller sample sizes of 400. Using a two-parameter model on three-parameter data produced dramatically increased rejection rates for the unidimensional data. Using the correct three-parameter model reduced the unidimensional rejection rates but yielded lower power than the two-parameter data in some conditions.
Radically insensitive theists

Sceptical theists attempt to meet the challenge to theism posed by evidential arguments from evil by appealing to the limitations of human cognition. Drawing on an exchange between William Rowe and Michael Bergmann, I argue that consistent sceptical theists must be radically insensitive to certain kinds of evidence about prima facie evils – that is, that they must endorse the claim that not even evidence of extreme and pervasive suffering could justify disbelief in theism. I show that Bergmann's attempt to respond to this problem does not succeed and argue that no alternative response is forthcoming, concluding that the threat of radical insensitivity constitutes a serious and underappreciated difficulty for sceptical theism.
Estimating the Incidence of Cases and Deaths Resulting from Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease and Its Related Socioeconomic Disease Burden in Republic of Korea (2010 - 2014).

Objectives Hand, Foot and Mouth disease (HFMD) is a highly contagious viral disease that affects young children and frequently causes epidemics. A vaccine is available in China (enterovirus 71) and, the Republic of Korea took the first step to develop a new vaccine. New vaccine development requires that disease burden is calculated in advance so the financial cost, morbidity and mortality can be measured. Methods Data from National Sentinel Surveillance and health insurance systems of 1 million claimants were used. Direct medical and non-medical costs, indirect (caregiving and premature death) costs, cases and related deaths were summarized. Results From 2010 to 2014, there were an estimated 3,605 to 9,271 cases of HFMD, with 1 to 3 deaths. The estimated socioeconomic disease burden ranged from 80.5 to 164.2 million USD and was similar to that of hepatitis A (93.6-103.8 million USD). Among each costs, costs of caregiving consisted of highest proportion mainly due to hiring caregivers (50% - 60%) or opportunity costs from day off (62% - 69%). Conclusion Considering the social impact of HFMD, the estimated socioeconomic disease burden is not high and government policies need to focus on reducing the loss of work in caregivers.
Pesticide Metabolism in Plants Reactions and Mechanisms

The use of pesticides to protect crop plants from weeds, insects, and other pests has increased steadily. In 1975 the total production of organic pesticides in the United States was 1609 million pounds (USDA, 1977). A great variety of pesticides, including herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides is applied to crop plants. Pesticides are inherently toxic and may be degraded to either toxic or nontoxic forms. Therefore, it is important to know the intermediate degradation products and the ultimate fate of pesticides in plants.
José Ortega Y Gasset’s Categorial Analysis of Human Life

If, as Ortega himself asserted, “philosophy is a certain idea of Being”, then it stands to reason to contend further, as in fact he did, that “the contribution made by any innovative philosophy is a certain novel idea of Being”.1 This position seems to be of a noble and ancient lineage, for, at first glance, it can be read as a paradoxical interpretation of Parmenides\’ dictum, to the effect that “it is the same thing to think and to be”.2 Yet it is nothing of the sort, except nominally, since Ortega has come to formulate his view in order to give expression to the outcome of an extended process in which the sense of Parmenides’ verse has been subjected to critical evaluation. Indeed, this process is none other than the history of philosophy itself, if understood as a renewed effort to reflect on the ultimate data out of which one would adequately construct the universe in thought. The question to bear in mind would then be: has Parmenides’ principle been carried over intact throughout history, or has it been essentially transformed – in sense as well as in range of influence – by virtue of an internal dialectic? The former alternative is obviously unlikely or even out of the question, while the latter is unclear, unless one is able to specify the meaning of “internal” in the developmental changes involved in proceeding from the time of the Greeks to the present. In what follows, I will endeavor to clarify what this has entailed.
Remote Proactive Physiologic Monitoring in the ICU

Critical care is undergoing a sea change as intensivist access is inadequate to meet current and future demand for specialist services, while the amount of data involved in critical care plans continues to increase markedly. Heralded by similar changes in nonmedical industries due to increased digital computing power and secure data storage capability, healthcare (and critical care in particular) is rapidly becoming influenced by the rise of remote proactive physiologic monitoring (RPM) technologies that provide enhanced remote specialist access and clinical decision support through a variety of hardware devices and analytic software platforms. While still relatively early in development, RPM technologies are already radically changing the landscape of critical care delivery through individual use cases as well as collective, integrated platforms. Centralized monitoring tele-ICU systems are enterprise-level, end-to-end platforms offering improved clinical outcomes through use of robust clinical information systems that allow early recognition of disease and proactive intervention. Downsides include a high investment of resources and extended time to implementation. Decentralized tele-ICU systems are versatile and relatively inexpensive systems that mirror the bedside experience at the expense of an integrated analytics platform. Artificial intelligence, data science, and related disciplines continue to provide advances in predictive analytics by leveraging the power of machine learning algorithms such that critical care delivery through RPM technologies has made an “Internet of ICU Things” a realistic possibility. Institutions looking to utilize RPM technologies and/or a full tele-ICU program should be keenly aware of impacts upon remote and bedside clinicians and seek to integrate such technologies with legacy systems and minimize interdepartmental technology variations. A strong emphasis on interoperability and compatibility within new and existing technologies and together with clinical operations and workflows is crucial for success.
Factors associated with breast cancer mortality-per-incident case in low-to-middle income countries (LMICs).

1566Background: Reducing breast cancer mortality is a key healthcare challenge worldwide. We sought to determine the impact of macro-socioeconomic factors on breast cancer age-standardized incidenc...
Method for Cable Lines Insulation Monitoring

The article deals with the possibilities of using a device that reacts to reverse and zero-sequence currents to monitor the insulation of cable lines. The main problems that inevitably arise during the diagnostics of cable lines by the equipment designed for working with disconnected lines are indicated. The disadvantages of the devices used to control the insulation of cable lines reacting to zero-sequence currents because of the possible uncertainty in the location of the occurrence of these currents or because of unbalanced loads are presented. It is shown that the use of the placement of control devices at the beginning and end of the lines makes it possible to obtain more reliable and valid results in determining the cause of the appearance of these currents, and, consequently, the causes of the appearance of these currents. The use of reverse sequence currents is also considered to reveal the weakening of insulation between the phases of cable lines.
Daratumumab Directly Induces Human Multiple Myeloma Cell Death and Acts Synergistically with Conventional and Novel Anti-Myeloma Drugs

Abstract Abstract 3013 Daratumumab is a novel fully human therapeutic CD38-specific monoclonal antibody (mAb) that is currently in phase I/II safety and dose finding clinical studies in MM. We recently demonstrated that daratumumab induces antibody dependent cytotoxicity (ADCC) and complement dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) against multiple myeloma (MM) cells (ASH Abstract #608, 2009). Significantly, daratumumab induces ADCC-mediated autologous lysis against MM patient cells. In addition, when cross-linked, daratumumab directly induces Ramos lymphoma cell death. We here studied whether daratumumab directly kills MM cells and whether daratumumab could be combined with other anti-MM drugs to further enhance its direct cytotoxicity. Direct daratumumab-induced MM cell death was determined using CellTiter-Glo luminescent cell viability assay and Annexin V/PI flow cytometry analysis, with or without goat anti-human IgG crosslinking. Following 48h incubation, daratumumab (0.1-10 μg/ml), when cross-linked, directly induced cytoxicity against dexamethasone (dex)-sensitive MM1S and dex-resistant MM1R cells, as evidenced by decreased cell viability in a dose-dependent manner. Importantly, cross-linked daratumumab increased caspase 3/7 activities in a dose-dependent fashion, as assessed by the Caspase-Glo® 3/7 luminescence assay. Furthermore, daratumumab upregulated Annexin V+ and Annexin V+/PI+ cells in freshly isolated CD138+ MM patient cells, from 7.7% to 20.6% and 10.9% to 15.4 %. Therefore, cross-linked daratumumab can directly trigger apoptosis of patient myeloma cells. Cell viability assay was further performed on MM1S cells when daratumumab (0.1, 1, 10 μg/ml) was combined with dex (0.5 and 1 μM) or bortezomib (2.5, 5, and 10 nM). Following 48–72h incubation with daratumumab, both dex and bortezomib synergistically inhibited MM cell viability, as determined by combination index (CI) Disclosures: Weers: Genmab: Employment. Parren: Genmab: Employment. Richardson: Keryx Biopharmaceuticals: Honoraria. Munshi: Millennium Pharmaceuticals: Honoraria, Speakers Bureau. Anderson: Millennium Pharmaceuticals: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Research Funding, Speakers Bureau.
Serum metabolite markers of early Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae infection in pigs

Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, the primary pathogenic bacterium causing enzootic pneumonia, significantly affects worldwide swine production. The infection is usually persistent and bacterial identification and isolation of M. hyopneumoniae in clinical samples are challenging due to the fastidious requirements for its growth. Hence, new practical surveillance tools that improve or complement existing diagnostics on M. hyopneumoniae are desirable, especially in early infection. The objective of this study was to identify potential metabolite markers of early M. hyopneumoniae infection in pigs through metabolomics analysis. Samples obtained from pigs in a previous M. hyopneumoniae experimental infection were used in this study. Briefly, two pigs served as mock inoculated controls and ten pigs were intra-tracheally inoculated with M. hyopneumoniae. Sera, laryngeal swabs (LS), and tracheo-bronchial lavage fluid (TBLF) were collected from all pigs at 0, 2, 5, 9, 14, 21 and 28 days post-inoculation (dpi). Bronchial swabs (BS) were collected post-mortem at 28 dpi. Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae infection was confirmed by PCR in LS, TBLF and BS. Serum metabolites were profiled using high-resolution liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS) analysis. Metabolite markers were identified by structural analysis following multivariate analysis of LC–MS data. The results showed that M. hyopneumoniae infection time-dependently altered the serum levels of selective amino acids and fatty acids. α-Aminobutyric acid and long-chain fatty acids were markedly increased at 14 and 21 dpi in inoculated pigs (p < 0.05). These results indicated that M. hyopneumoniae infection caused systemic changes in host metabolism, warranting further studies to determine underlying biochemical and physiological mechanisms responsible for the observed changes.
Continuous Representations of Speed by Striatal Medium Spiny Neurons

The striatum is critical for controlling motor output. However, it remains unclear how striatal output neurons encode and facilitate movement. A prominent theory suggests that striatal units encode movements in bursts of activity near specific events, such as the start or end of actions. These bursts are theorized to gate or permit specific motor actions, thereby encoding and facilitating complex sequences of actions. An alternative theory has suggested that striatal neurons encode continuous changes in sensory or motor information with graded changes in firing rate. Supporting this theory, many striatal neurons exhibit such graded changes without bursting near specific actions. Here, we evaluated these two theories in the same recordings of mice (both male and female). We recorded single-unit and multiunit activity from the dorsomedial striatum of mice as they spontaneously explored an arena. We observed both types of encoding, although continuous encoding was more prevalent than bursting near movement initiation or termination. The majority of recorded units did not exhibit positive linear relationships with speed but instead exhibited nonlinear relationships that peaked at a range of locomotor speeds. Bulk calcium recordings of identified direct and indirect pathway neurons revealed similar speed tuning profiles, indicating that the heterogeneity in response profiles was not due to this genetic distinction. We conclude that continuous encoding of speed is a central component of movement encoding in the striatum.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The striatum is a structure that is linked to volitional movements and is a primary site of pathology in movement disorders. It remains unclear how striatal neurons encode motor parameters and use them to facilitate movement. Here, we evaluated two models for this: a "discrete encoding model" in which striatal neurons facilitate movements with brief burst of activity near the start and end of movements, and a "continuous encoding model," in which striatal neurons encode the sensory or motor state of the animal with continuous changes in firing. We found evidence primarily in support of the continuous encoding model. This may have implications for understanding the striatal control of movement, as well as informing therapeutic approaches for treating movement disorders.
Risk of Stroke vs. Intracerebral Hemorrhage in Patients with Non-Valvular Atrial Fibrillation Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials Comparing Dual vs. Triple Antithrombotic Therapy.

Abstract Background About 15% of patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation might require percutaneous coronary interventions (PCIs) with stent placement to treat obstructive coronary artery disease. Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) with acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) and P2Y12 antagonist is recommended after PCI. Patients requiring DAPT also require treatment with oral anticoagulation for atrial fibrillation. We conducted a meta-analysis to identify the antithrombotic regimen associated with the lowest rate of bleeding and thromboembolic events in non-valvular atrial fibrillation after PCI. Methods We searched PubMed, Embase, Scopus and Cochrane databases to identify randomized trials that investigated the use of dual antiplatelet therapy and vitamin K antagonist and/or Non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOAC) (triple antithrombotic therapy (TAT)) against single antiplatelet agent and NOAC (dual antithrombotic therapy (DAT)) in the setting of coronary artery disease (CAD) requiring PCI and non-valvular atrial fibrillation. Random-effect models were used to pool data. We used the I2 statistic to measure heterogeneity between trials. Results We found 4 randomized clinical trials (ENTRUST, AUGUSTUS, PIONEER, REDUAL) using different NOACs. Overall, 9241 patients (median age 70 years, 41.4% female, mean CHADS2VASC Score 3.5) were included. We excluded patients in the very low dose rivaroxaban group from the PIONEER AF-PCI trial and low dose dabigatran group from the REDUAL PCI trial as these are not available in the United States. Our metanalysis showed that dual therapy was associated with less risk of intracranial hemorrhage (RR 0.55, 95% CI 0.31–0.99; p = 0.045; I2 = 42%) and major bleeding (RR 0.66; 95% CI 0.55–0.79; p Conclusions The combination of an antiplatelet and NOACs (dual therapy) is associated with less risk of major bleeding and intracranial hemorrhage, with no significant difference in ischemic events (stroke myocardial infarction or stent thrombosis).
Increasing prevalence of sars-cov2 related eosinophilic pneumonia

Introduction: As the pandemic sweeps on, it is important to recognize some of the unique outcomes of the still very abstract SARS-COV2 viral pneumonia. In this case, we describe a patient that developed acute eosinophilic pneumonia secondary to COVID19 infection. Case Presentation: A 65-year-old Hispanic female with history of osteoporosis, fibromyalgia and depression presented to the ER with dyspnea and non-productive cough for two days. She was hypoxic at 91% on room air. Chest X-ray showed bilateral reticular infiltrates. COVID 19 PCR was positive. Lactate dehydrogenase, Ferritin, C-reactive protein were elevated. Initial treatment consisted of supplemental oxygen, ceftriaxone, azithromycin, hydroxychloroquine, therapeutic anticoagulation, tocilizumab and methylprednisolone, and convalescent plasma. However, she had worsening hypoxia despite maximizing noninvasive ventilation leading to Endo-Tracheal Intubation. She also developed septic shock requiring empiric coverage with meropenem, vancomycin and micafungin. Blood cultures grew MRSA. Urine culture grew E. coli. 2D Echo and Transesophageal Echo were negative for endocarditis. Gallium scan, and CT abdomen and pelvis were negative for other sources of infection. As her hypoxia worsened, CT thorax was done which revealed diffuse ground glass appearance, interstitial lung disease, fibrosis and bronchiectasis. Complete blood count with differential demonstrated new peripheral eosinophilia (2630/mm3). Serum antigens, sputum, and stool cultures for fungal agents, parasites, and Giemsa staining returned negative. Other triggers of peripheral eosinophilia such as smoking, parasitic infections, allergies, allergic interstitial nephritis, medications were ruled out. Broncho alveolar lavage, although planned, was not performed due to hemodynamic instability and severe hypoxemia. Based on acutely worsening respiratory status and significant peripheral eosinophilia, we considered the diagnosis of acute eosinophilic pneumonia and started her on high dose methylprednisolone. She had significant improvement in oxygen requirement, chest X-ray and subsequent thoracic CT scans. She then had a tracheostomy and was discharged to acute care facility. Discussion: The SARS-COV2 infection is thought to be a TH1 type response with IL-2 activation. However, in this case, TH2 mediated responses with IL-13/IL-5 activation and eosinophil release, which are the predominant mechanisms behind acute eosinophilic pneumonia, must be explored. There have been at least 2 reported cases of eosinophilic pneumonia in COVID19 infected patients. It is important to further our understanding of the pathophysiology behind SARS-COV2 related eosinophilic pneumonia to plan for efficacious treatment, and reduce excessive work up in search for other causes. It is also relevant to understand the role of high dose steroids in its treatment.
Predicting changes in substance use following psychedelic experiences: natural language processing of psychedelic session narratives

Background: Experiences with psychedelic drugs, such as psilocybin or lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), are sometimes followed by changes in patterns of tobacco, opioid, and alcohol consumption. Bu...
Main-group metalated heterocycles through Lewis acid cyclization

Main-group metalated heterocycles have broad applications in synthesis, drug development, and materials science. In this review, we highlight recent progress in synthesizing isolable main-group heterocycles of boron, indium, silicon, tin, selenium, and tellurium via Lewis acid cyclization pathways and discuss mechanistic insights. Different from traditional two-step synthetic routes in which heterocycles are constructed first followed by metalation, the herein-described Lewis acid cyclization reactions construct the heterocyclic core and install the metal in one synthetic step. These cyclization reactions proceed with predictable regioselectivity and with high functional group tolerance. While all the described reactions are Lewis acid cyclization reactions onto carbon–carbon π bonds, mechanistic studies show that different metals/reagents can proceed through different intermediates.
Brain responses during delay discounting in youth at high-risk for substance use disorders.

Offspring of parents with substance use disorders (SUD) discount future rewards at a steeper rate on the monetary delay discounting task (DD) than typically developing youth. However, brain activation during DD has yet to be studied in drug naive youth with a family history (FH) of SUD. Here, we investigate brain activation differences in high-risk youth during DD. We recruited substance naive youth, aged 11-12, into three groups to compare brain activation during DD: (1) High-risk youth (n = 35) with a FH of SUD and externalizing psychiatric disorders, (2) psychiatric controls (n = 25) who had no FH of SUD, but with equivalent externalizing psychiatric disorders as high-risk youth, and (3) a healthy control group (n = 24) with no FH of SUD and minimal psychopathology. A whole-brain voxel wise analysis of the [Delay > Baseline], [Immediate > Baseline], and [Control > Baseline] contrasts identified functional regions of interest, from which extracted parameter estimates were tested for significant group differences. Relative to control youth, high-risk youth showed stronger activation in the left posterior insula and thalamus when making delayed choices, and stronger activation of the parahippocampal gyrus when making both delayed and control choices (ps < 0.05). Activation in the left posterior insula negatively correlated with both subscales of the Emotion Regulation Checklist, and positively correlated with the Stroop interference effect (ps < 0.05). Our findings suggest possible heritable SUD risk neural markers that distinguish drug naive high-risk youth from psychiatric and healthy controls.
Transformational Approaches: Equine Speciesism

By exploring the various approaches that artists employed to represent the equine species, Chapter Four will seek to identify how donkeys have been subjected to speciesism. Considered utilitarian, difficult to manage and legendarily stubborn, donkeys have been seen as less desirable aesthetically in stature, as pets, and in myth and lore, thereby being disposed to over work, arduous transport, and implorable human labor conditions. Demonstrating resistance versus yielding behaviors to various human endeavors, donkeys have been perceived as vacillating, weak-willed, corruptible, or cowardly, rendering them as marginalized and in gendered terms. The visual representation of donkeys contributed firstly to the cultural indifference toward them and secondly to their subjugation. Later, artists such as Theodore Gericault and Rosa Bonheur may have influenced the humane and ethical changes necessary for donkey reform in the romantic depictions of the equine species.
Subtrochanteric osteotomy in total hip revision. Report of two cases.

Abstract Revision of the femoral component in a failed total hip arthroplasty can be difficult, tedious, and destructive to the patient's femur. This is particularly true in cases of severe osteolysis or revision of previous revisions. A technique is described whereby visualization of the femoral canal is obtained by subtrochanteric osteotomy. This technique may be useful in selected cases of hip revision
Biomimetic Electromagnetic Devices

Literally, the term biomimetics means to imitate life. Practically, biomimetics is an interdisciplinary effort aimed at understanding biological principles and then applying those principles to improve existing technology. This approach can mean changing a design to match a biological pattern, or it can mean actually using biological materials, for example, proteins, to improve performance. Biomimetics had its earliest and strongest footholds in materials science, and it is rapidly spreading to areas such as electromagnetic sensors and computer science. The area of biomimetics covered in this article applies to sensing electromagnetic (EM) radiation. Volumes have been written regarding how higher organisms perceive visible light, and thus, this will be largely ignored here. Mostly, coverage is limited to biological sensing of EM radiation on either side of the visible, the ultraviolet, and the infrared. From a biological sensing perspective, spectral regions are defined as follows: near-ultraviolet wavelengths (λ) from 200–400 nm and infrared wavelengths from 0.75–15 µm. Operationally, both the ultraviolet and infrared extend over larger wavelength intervals. This article outlines some of the electromagnetic detection/sensitive systems in biology. Keywords: Biological ultraviolet systems; Biological visible systems; Insect vision; Antireflective coatings; Butterfly wings; Biological infrared detectors; Bacteria; Snakes; Beetles; Electromagnetic applications
Deterministic transport on an arbitrarily connected grid

We discuss spatial discretization of the transport equation, concentrating on the problems posed by grids with arbitrary connectivity and arbitrarily-shaped computational cells. We consider both accuracy and efficiency criteria and examine several candidate discretization schemes with respect to these criteria. We show that if arbitrarily-shaped zones are allowed, existing spatial discretization schemes do not provide the desired accuracy in the optically-thick diffusion limit. We present a new scheme that does appear to perform well in the diffusion limit, regardless of the connectivity of the grid or shape of the zones. We show that our new scheme has very nice properties in other limits as well.
Elastic Instability of Unbraced Space Frames

Elastic instability of rigid-jointed, unbraced, single-story single-bay, orthogonal space frames subjected to static loads at the column tops is studied. The columns are assumed to be fixed at the base. The influence on the frame behavior of the relative magnitude of the load-multiplication factors for the four columns and the orientation of the principal axes of the column cross-sections is investigated. The instability loads are also compared with those obtained approximately using the effective-length approach. Interesting conclusions are drawn based on the results of 12 numerical examples.
The role of usability research in designing children's computer products

The Role of Usability Research in Designing Children’s Computer Products, a chapter in The design of children’s technology.