cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Circadian Rhythms, Sleep Deprivation, and Human Performance

Much of the current science on, and mathematical modeling of, dynamic changes in human performance within and between days is dominated by the two-process model of sleep-wake regulation, which posits a neurobiological drive for sleep that varies homeostatically (increasing as a saturating exponential during wakefulness and decreasing in a like manner during sleep), and a circadian process that neurobiologically modulates both the homeostatic drive for sleep and waking alertness and performance. Endogenous circadian rhythms in neurobehavioral functions, including physiological alertness and cognitive performance, have been demonstrated using special laboratory protocols that reveal the interaction of the biological clock with the sleep homeostatic drive. Individual differences in circadian rhythms and genetic and other components underlying such differences also influence waking neurobehavioral functions. Both acute total sleep deprivation and chronic sleep restriction increase homeostatic sleep drive and degrade waking neurobehavioral functions as reflected in sleepiness, attention, cognitive speed, and memory. Recent evidence indicating a high degree of stability in neurobehavioral responses to sleep loss suggests that these trait-like individual differences are phenotypic and likely involve genetic components, including circadian genes. Recent experiments have revealed both sleep homeostatic and circadian effects on brain metabolism and neural activation. Investigation of the neural and genetic mechanisms underlying the dynamically complex interaction between sleep homeostasis and circadian systems is beginning. A key goal of this work is to identify biomarkers that accurately predict human performance in situations in which the circadian and sleep homeostatic systems are perturbed.
The non–isothermal kinetic analyses of self–propagation combustion from differential thermal analysis

The fundament of non-isothermal kinetic analyses of self-propagation combustion (SHS) reaction from Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA) have been analysized on the view of experiments and theories in order to develope a reasonable non-isothermal method for determination of kinetic parameters, activation energy (E) and reaction order (n). The results have shown that under the condition of the adiatbatic assumption, the DTA non-isothermal kinetic analysis is valid, but the treating program should be different from the conventional methods so as to coincide with the SHS reaction characteristics. A improved DTA non-isothermal analysis method has been proposed. Finally, as an example, the kinetics of Al-TiO2 SHS reaction has been investigated. The results are that E is equal to 58. 6KJ. mol−1, and n is equal to 1/3.
Painful lessons from the SSC

Perhaps better than anyone here in Washington DC, Dan McLaughlin, a Ph D candidate at the University of Illinois, has learnt the hard lessons of funding large scientific projects. Dan worked on the ill-fated Mars Observer mission as an undergraduate. Now he's working on the Superconducting Super Collider as a graduate student.
Analysis of the Lehman Brothers collapse and the Flash Crash event by applying wavelets methodologies

Abstract In this study, we apply a wavelet methodology initially developed for geophysical data to financial data. Specifically, the method distinguishes between natural tectonic earthquakes and man made explosions. We exemplify using time series data from two financial events: the Lehman Brothers collapse and the Flash Crash event. We conclude that the Lehman Brothers collapse behaves like a natural earthquake while the Flash Crash event behaves like a human made explosion. This study may imply that the Lehman Brothers type events may be predicted, while sudden Flash Crash type events are not predictable.
Spray-Dried Thiolated Chitosan-Coated Sodium Alginate Multilayer Microparticles for Vaginal HIV Microbicide Delivery

It is hypothesized that novel thiolated chitosan-coated multilayer microparticles (MPs) with enhanced drug loading are more mucoadhesive than uncoated MPs and safe in vivo for vaginal delivery of topical anti-HIV microbicide. Formulation optimization is achieved through a custom experimental design and the alginate (AG) MPs cores are prepared using the spray drying method. The optimal MPs are then coated with the thiolated chitosan (TCS) using a layer-by-layer method. The morphological analysis, in situ drug payload, in vitro drug release profile, and mucoadhesion potential of the MPs are carried out using scanning electron microscopy, solid-state 31P NMR spectroscopy, UV spectroscopy, fluorescence imaging and periodic acid Schiff method, respectively. The cytotoxicity and preclinical safety of MPs are assessed on human vaginal (VK2/E6E7) and endocervical (End1/E6E7) epithelial cell lines and in female C57BL/6 mice, respectively. The results show that the MPs are successfully formulated with an average diameter ranging from 2 to 3 μm with a drug loading of 7–12% w/w. The drug release profile of these MPs primarily follows the Baker-Lonsdale and Korsmeyer-Peppas models. The MPs exhibit high mucoadhesion (20–50 folds) compared to native AGMPs. The multilayer MPs are noncytotoxic. Histological and immunochemical analysis of the mice genital tract shows neither signs of damage nor inflammatory cell infiltrate. These data highlight the potential use of TCS-coated AG-based multilayer MPs templates for the topical vaginal delivery of anti-HIV/AIDS microbicides.
Hardy’s Deep Discordance

While Thomas Hardy is acknowledged as a major author of the Victorian period, his poetry is less critically regarded than his novels, and of his poetic subjects, few have been given less attention ...
Flexibility and adaptability: essential elements of the WRRF of the future

All Water Resource Recovery Facilities (WRRFs) must comply with evolving treatment objectives and product water quality requirements, using technologies which also evolve over time. The useful life of the physical structures, especially hydraulic conveyance (pipes and channels) and water holding structures, is significantly longer than that of the specific technologies used. Thus, the WRRF of the future must, first and foremost, be designed with the flexibility to adapt to a wide variety of requirements over its life using a wide variety of technologies, some of which are currently known while others will be invented and/or further developed over time. This might be seen as the true essence of the WRRF of the future, rather than the specific technology implemented at a particular time. While incorporating flexibility and adaptability into facilities may seem daunting, especially since future requirements and technologies are largely unknown, experience indicates that much can be done to prepare for such changes. Proven engineering approaches are presented and discussed in the paper, including the ‘building block approach’ to plant layout and design, and the choice of process tank configurations which can accommodate numerous technologies.
Synthesis and polymerase activity of a fluorescent cytidine TNA triphosphate analogue

Threose nucleic acid (TNA) is an artificial genetic polymer capable of undergoing Darwinian evolution to produce aptamers with affinity to specific targets. This property, coupled with a backbone structure that is refractory to nuclease digestion, makes TNA an attractive biopolymer system for diagnostic and therapeutic applications. Expanding the chemical diversity of TNA beyond the natural bases would enable the development of functional TNA molecules with enhanced physiochemical properties. Here, we describe the synthesis and polymerase activity of a fluorescent cytidine TNA triphosphate analogue (1,3-diaza-2-oxo-phenothiazine, tCfTP) that maintains Watson-Crick base pairing with guanine. Polymerase-mediated primer-extension assays reveal that tCfTP is efficiently added to the growing end of a TNA primer. Detailed kinetic assays indicate that tCfTP and tCTP have comparable rates for the first nucleotide incorporation step (kobs1). However, addition of the second nucleotide (kobs2) is 700-fold faster for tCfTP than tCTP due the increased effects of base stacking. Last, we found that TNA replication using tCfTP in place of tCTP exhibits 98.4% overall fidelity for the combined process of TNA transcription and reverse transcription. Together, these results expand the chemical diversity of enzymatically generated TNA molecules to include a hydrophobic base analogue with strong fluorescent properties that is compatible with in vitro selection.
Family Reunification: A Systematic Review of Interventions Designed to Address Co-Occurring Issues of Child Maltreatment and Substance Use

ABSTRACTA significant risk factor of child maltreatment is parental substance use. In response to the burgeoning number of child maltreatment cases involving substance use, the child welfare system has created various models of intervention. Utilizing the PRISMA guidelines, a systematic literature review was conducted to identify and characterize interventions utilized by child welfare agencies seeking reunification. A search of seven electronic databases examined peer-reviewed articles published between 2006 and October 2016. Four models of intervention became apparent throughout the review, which included Family Treatment Drug Court (FTDC), Family Treatment Drug Court plus additional services (FTDC Plus), Comprehensive Services (also referred to as Wrap Around), and the Strengthening Families Program (SFP). Results suggested that the most critical aspect of successful treatment and reunification was whether parents received comprehensive services that were specifically matched to the individual, regardl...
Improving Desalination Recovery Using Zero Discharge Desalination (ZDD): A Process Model for Evaluating Technical Feasibility

Zero Discharge Desalination (ZDD) is a very-high-recovery hybrid desalination system, typically comprised of a primary desalter (such as reverse osmosis (RO) or nanofiltration (NF)) and electrodialysis metathesis (EDM). The EDM acts as a “kidney” by removing troublesome salts from the concentrate of the primary desalter, which allows for additional recovery of potable water. A mathematical model was developed to simulate ZDD system performance using mass balance, desalination design equations, and experimental data. Model results confirm that ZDD can achieve >97% system recovery for brackish water with (a) a feed total dissolved solids (TDS) concentration of 60% of the TDS); and (c) a silica content of <40 mg/L. Furthermore, model results indicate that the required ZDD specific energy consumption (a) increases by 0.77 kWh per 1 g/L of feed TDS; (b) increases with lower permeate TDS, especially belo...
Composition-independent mean temperature measurements in laminar diffusion flames using spectral lineshape information

Temperature is an important thermochemical property in combusting flows that holds the key to uncovering pollutant formation, flame extinction, and heat release. In a practical combustion environment, the local composition is typically unknown, which hinders the effectiveness of many traditional non-intrusive thermometry techniques. This study aims to offset this limitation by developing a laser-based thermometry technique that does not require prior knowledge of the local composition. Two methods for obtaining temperature are demonstrated in this work, both of which make use of the spectral line broadening of an absorbing species (krypton) seeded into the flow. In the first method, the local Doppler broadening is extracted from an excitation scan to yield the corresponding temperature, while the second method utilizes compositional scaling information of the collisional broadening and collisional shift to determine the temperature. Both methods are demonstrated by measuring the radial temperature profile of a steady laminar CH4/N2 diffusion flame with an air co-flow. The accuracy of the temperature measurements obtained using both methods are evaluated using corresponding temperature profiles determined from computational simulations.
Macular Fluid Reduces Reproducibility of Choroidal Thickness Measurements on Enhanced Depth Optical Coherence Tomography

Purpose To determine if different types of retinal fluid in the central macula affect the reproducibility of choroidal thickness (CT) measurements on enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT). Design Retrospective reliability analysis. Methods EDI-OCT images were obtained and the choroidal-scleral junction was analyzed through semiautomated segmentation. CT was measured at the fovea and averaged across the central 3-mm horizontal segment. Demographic data, central macular thickness, and type of fluid present were recorded. Intragrader and intergrader repeatability were assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and coefficient of repeatability (CR). Results Of 124 eyes analyzed, 60 (48.4%) had diabetic macular edema, 32 (25.8%) had neovascular age-related macular degeneration, and 32 (25.8%) had other causes of fluid. Intergrader ICC (CR) was 0.95 (74.1 μm) and 0.96 (63.9 μm) for subfoveal and average CT, respectively. CR was similar across various causes of retinal fluid, but was worst for subretinal fluid compared to intraretinal or sub–retinal pigment epithelial fluid. CR also worsened with increasing choroidal thickness, but was not affected by retinal thickness. Intragrader repeatability was generally greater than intergrader values, and followed the same trend. Conclusions The presence of macular fluid reduces CT measurement reproducibility, particularly in eyes with subretinal fluid and greater choroidal thickness. A difference of 74.1 μm in subfoveal CT or 63.9 μm in average CT may be necessary to detect true clinical change in eyes with macular fluid.
Frequency Domain Representation of Discrete-Time Signals and Systems

Signals, continuous-time, or discrete-time occur in the time domain. We, therefore, described rather elaborately discrete-time signals and systems in the time domain. For easier and more efficient ways to analyze such signals and systems, we next introduced the Z-transform, which is an alternative representation of discrete-time signals and systems. The Z-transform maps a discrete-time signal or an LTI discrete-time system from the discrete-time domain into a complex plane. In this plane, the discrete-time signals and systems are represented by their poles and zeros. There is another domain in which a discrete-time signal or equivalently an LTI discrete-time system can be represented. This domain is the frequency domain. We can visualize a signal more easily in the frequency domain than in the time domain. For instance, a sum of sinusoidal signals with differing frequencies is hard to identify in the time domain individually. On the other hand, such a signal can be easily identified individually in the frequency domain. This is illustrated in Figs. 4.1a and b. The discrete-time signal is shown in Fig. 4.1a. It consists of three sinusoids at frequencies 13, 57, and 93 Hz with amplitudes 1, 1.5, and 2, respectively, at a sampling frequency of 500 Hz. It is hard to discern the individual sinusoids from the figure. Figure 4.1b shows the discrete-time Fourier transform (DTFT) representation of the signal in Fig. 4.1a. One can clearly distinguish the three components in frequency and relative amplitude. The DTFT also greatly aids in the design of LTI discrete-time systems. This chapter deals with the representation of discrete-time signals and systems in the frequency domain. More specifically, we will define a mapping known as the discrete-time Fourier transform that characterizes discrete-time signals and systems in the frequency domain. As a consequence, we will show the relationship between the Z-transform and DTFT. We will also observe that the DTFT characterizes an LTI discrete-time system in the frequency domain. Because of this property, we can define the filtering operations. Filters such as lowpass, highpass, bandpass, bandstop, etc., can be characterized more efficiently in the frequency domain. It further leads us to the design of such filters (Tables 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3).
A Shadow Career: The Covert Poetry of Vladimir Lifshits

Abstract While perhaps best known as a children’s poet, Vladimir Lifshits was a prolific writer in several genres, who superficially resembled many other Soviet writers in good standing with the regime. However, this article, surveying his now undeservedly ignored career, reveals another side to his writing: Lifshits not only composed unpublished verse highly critical of the authorities but also used various techniques – initially and most importantly, the mask of literary parody – to publish works expressing his aversion to much of what he observed in Soviet society. These writings show he was a principled, if often overlooked, opponent of the existing order.
Judicial Information Management in an Electronic Age: Old Standards, New Challenges

Under well established law, information in court records is open to the public, but it may be sealed upon a fact-based showing either that the information is not a matter of legitimate public concern or is sufficiently sensitive to need such protection. Under the former paper-based court record system, however, routine violations of these publcity standards were widely tolerated. At the same time, the practical obscurity of paper provided a default privacy benefit for negligently unsealed sensitive information. With the introduction of electonic filing, old improper sealing practices are now increasingly being exposed and criticised; while the dealth of practical obscurity has caused individuals with sensitive information in court files, to be increasingly exposed to harm. This article argues that restoring an appropriate homeostasis to the judicial information eco-system, where legitimate privacy and publicity interests are both protected, does not require replacing established common law standards; but it will require the adoption of new legal procedures, better use of information technologies, and more careful training of judges and lawyers. Ultimately, to properly achieve this goal, the existing common law adversarial system of information mangement will need to be supplemented by a new administrative model.
MOUNTAIN METEOROLOGY | Katabatic Winds

This article is reproduced from the previous edition, volume 3, pp 1057–1061, © 2003, Elsevier Ltd.
Infinite Free Resolutions

This text is based on the notes for a series of five lectures to the Barcelona Summer School in Commutative Algebra at the Centre de Recerca Matematica, Institut d’Estudis Catalans, July 15–26, 1996.
Molecular Mechanisms of Hemodialysis Graft Failure

Today there are more than 400,000 patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in the United States, and the vast majority of patients use long-term hemodialysis as their mode of renal replacement therapy [1]. This population is expected to double in the next decade. For patients using chronic hemodialysis as their mode of renal replacement therapy, a highly functioning vascular access is their “lifeline” because it ensures adequate reduction of uremic toxins and maintenance of appropriate electrolyte balances. Hemodialysis vascular access dysfunction occurs in patients and is frequently caused by the development of venous stenosis at the vein-to-graft anastomosis site or in the proximal outflow vein [2].
Optimal Dimensionality Reduction Using Hebbian Learning

Abstract The problem of learning efficient representation of a high dimensional input by a lower dimensional space is investigated. It is shown that a recurrent system of interconnected linear neurons, using Hebbian learning rule to update its connections, will converge w.p.1 to an orthogonal projection onto the space generated by the first q principal components of the p dimensional input covariance matrix. The problem is analytically tractable since the input-output map is expressed by a linear equation.
The Last Jedi: Step Response Identification of Overdamped Second Order Systems

A simple, general method for exactly determining the parameters of an overdamped second order LTI system from its step response is conspicuously absent from the literature. This paper develops and demonstrates such a procedure called the “Beta T-star Method.” As it fills the gap in system identification from the step response of first and second order systems, the new method is “The Last J of basic system identification. The new method exploits elegant relationships between the maximum time derivative of the step response, the time at which the maximum occurs, and the parameters of the system. The paper also extends the method to underdamped second order systems. While the extension is primarily of academic interest, it may be useful for systems for which the percent overshoot is very small.
Nanoparticulate matter exposure results in neuroinflammatory changes in the corpus callosum

Epidemiological studies have established an association between air pollution particulate matter exposure (PM2.5) and neurocognitive decline. Experimental data suggest that microglia play an essential role in air pollution PM-induced neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. This study examined the effect of nano-sized particulate matter (nPM) on complement C5 deposition and microglial activation in the corpus callosum of mice (C57BL/6J males). nPM was collected in an urban Los Angeles region impacted by traffic emissions. Mice were exposed to 10 weeks of re-aerosolized nPM or filtered air for a cumulative 150 hours. nPM-exposed mice exhibited reactive microglia and 2-fold increased local deposition of complement C5/ C5α proteins and complement component C5a receptor 1 (CD88) in the corpus callosum. However, serum C5 levels did not differ between nPM and filtered air cohorts. These findings demonstrate white matter C5 deposition and microglial activation secondary to nPM exposure. The C5 upregulation appears to be localized to the brain.
Numerical and experimental study of internal curing effects on permeability of mortar samples

AbstractThis study investigated the transport properties of cement mortar using microscale X-ray computed tomography (μCT) characterization techniques, the Permeability Solver computational program...
The influence of additive manufacturing processing parameters on surface roughness and fatigue life

Abstract Additive manufacturing (AM) is used to create metal components with complex geometries where the internal surfaces cannot easily be post machined. Fatigue behavior in additively manufactured metals is largely driven by defects in the material such as porosity and surface roughness. This work investigates the processing-structure-property-performance (PSPP) relationship for varied contour processing parameters, and the resulting surface roughness features for alloy 718 fabricated using the laser powder bed fusion AM process. Two nondestructive characterization methods are used to determine the relationships between contour parameters and surface roughness characteristics. The benefits of each characterization technique and metrics required for an accurate representation of the additively manufactured surfaces are discussed. Axial fatigue testing is performed to connect the entire PSPP relationship. An understanding of the PSPP relationship with respect to surface roughness features and fatigue life can be used to guide future process parameter optimization and to inform the qualification strategy for AM components.
Facile High-Performance Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry Method for Analysis of Cyclocreatine and Phosphocyclocreatine in Complex Mixtures of Amino Acids

Creatine transporter deficiency (CTD) is caused by a defect in the X-linked creatine transporter SLC6A8 gene leading to severe neurologic and physiologic conditions. Cyclocreatine and phosphocyclocreatine supplementation is seen as a potential treatment, but the presence of these compounds within commercially available dietary supplements presents the risk of self-medication. High-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) is an excellent technique to assess composition of complex amino acid mixtures. Herein, we have developed a facile HPLC-MS method using a cyano column in hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC) mode with isocratic elution over 4 min to identify the main components of two commercially available dietary supplements. The relative standard deviation (RSD) for retention time and extracted ion integrated area are <0.3% and 4%, respectively, showing excellent reproducibility. Cyclocreatine and phosphocyclocreatine were not detectable within the dietary supplements, even at ppm levels, demonstrating the power and importance of the developed HPLC-MS method in analyzing complex mixtures.
Software Quality: Views and Purviews

Few topics engender more diversity of view and opinion than “quality.” The term is often used with the modifier “high” implied; only an explicit reference to low quality requires a modifier. An assertion such as “that’s a quality automobile” or “quality goes in before the name goes on” needs no clarification that high quality is intended. What is embodied in the term “quality” or how an assessment intends to measure it are issues that evoke major disagreements. Consider the differences in perceptions and reactions to the assertion, “that person is a quality teacher.” The attributes of a teacher that elicit praise by students vary greatly among the evaluators, simply because a match in learning approach and teaching style is the key to a successful experience.
Uniform, Binary Functionalization of a Metal–Organic Framework Material

General routes to confined spaces of well-defined chemical composition and complex three-dimensional structure have long been sought by materials chemists. Here, we introduce metal–organic framewor...
Thiazolothiazole-Based Luminescent Metal-Organic Frameworks with Ligand-to-Ligand Energy Transfer and Hg2+-Sensing Capabilities.

Photoinduced electron and energy transfer through preorganized chromophore, donor, and acceptor arrays are key to light-harvesting capabilities of photosynthetic plants and bacteria. Mimicking the ...
Engineering electro-optics in SiGe/Si waveguides for quantum transduction

High efficiency microwave-optical transduction for quantum state transfer remains an outstanding technical challenge. Resonant electro-optic transduction via three-wave mixing is an attractive solution, with a simple operating principle that does not rely on intermediate quantum states. However, intrinsic optical and microwave losses in electro-optic materials with large Pockels coefficients have limited the conversion efficiency of existing devices. Here, we show that an optimal conversion efficiency can be achieved with a relatively weak linear electro-optic material, as long as both the optical and microwave quality factors are high. We then specifically discuss designs for electro-optic quantum transducers based on superconducting microwave resonators coupled to SiGe/Si ring resonators. We theoretically show that applying an electric field to the SiGe/Si waveguides induces an effective Pockels effect, allowing three-wave mixing without introducing loss. Together with its excellent compatibility with superconducting qubit fabrication, the SiGe/Si platform promises to be an exciting avenue for quantum-state frequency conversion.
P-031 Preliminary assessment of the PPODA-QT lliquid embolic in a rabbit elastase aneurysm model

Introduction PPODA-QT is a novel liquid embolic under development for the treatment of cerebral aneurysms. The material is prepared and undergoes gelation in a predictable manner over a pre-set length of time for controllable delivery to the aneurysm with balloon protection. We utilized a rabbit-elastase aneurysm model with histological analysis to evaluate tissue response and biocompatibility following PPODA-QT embolization. Materials and Methods Experimental elastase-induced aneurysms were created via endovascular technique in New Zealand White Rabbits by incubating 100 U of elastase, mixed 1:1 with and 0.5 M calcium chloride, within the carotid stump for 20 minutes with Fogarty balloon protection. Three weeks after elastase treatment, the aneurysms were embolized using balloon remodeling with a Scepter XC (Microvention) across the aneurysm neck and PPODA-QT was delivered behind the balloon with a Velocity microcatheter (Penumbra). Rabbit control and aneurysm tissues were harvested at acute, 1-month, and 3-month timepoints. All tissues were prepared for histology assessment with Van Gieson and H&E staining protocols. Results The rabbit-elastase aneurysms developed into small aneurysms ( Conclusion Following PPODA-QT embolization, NI tissue growth and remodeling was noted with minimal immunological response, indicating that PPODA-QT can be successfully delivered to wider-neck aneurysms and promote aneurysm tissue reorganization and stabilization that facilitates continuous healing at the aneurysm neck. Because experimental aneurysms were uniformly small with inconsistent neck morphology, further testing in larger aneurysm models (i.e. canines) is planned to optimize device delivery and verify healing responses prior to human clinical investigation. Disclosures T. Becker: 1; C; Brain Aneurysm Foundation Grant-2018. 4; C; Aneuvas Technologies, Inc.. 5; C; Northern Arizona University, Aneuvas Technologies, Inc. A. Huckleberry: 1; C; Brain Aneurysm Foundation Grant-2018. W. Merritt: 1; C; Brain Aneurysm Foundation Grant-2018. 5; C; Northern Arizona University. T. Cotter: 1; C; Brain Aneurysm Foundation Grant-2018. 5; C; McGill University. C. Settanni: 1; C; Brain Aneurysm Foundation Grant-2018. 5; C; Northern Arizona University. A. Ducruet: 1; C; Brain Aneurysm Foundation Grant-2018. 5; C; Barrow Neurological Institute.
Incidentally discovered COVID-19 in low-suspicion patients-a threat to front line health care workers.

The COVID-19 pandemic has been responsible for thousands of deaths worldwide. Testing remains at a premium, and criteria for testing remains reserved for those with lower respiratory infection symptoms and/or a known high-risk exposure. The role of imaging in COVID-19 is rapidly evolving; however, few algorithms include imaging criteria, and it is unclear what should be done in low-suspicion patients with positive imaging findings. From 03/01/2020–03/20/2020, a retrospective review of all patients with suspected COVID-19 on imaging was performed. Imaging was interpreted by a board-certified, fellowship-trained radiologist. Patients were excluded if COVID-19 infection was suspected at the time of presentation, was the reason for imaging, or if any lower respiratory symptoms were present. Eight patients with suspected COVID-19 infection on imaging were encountered. Seven patients received testing due to suspicious imaging findings with subsequent lab-confirmed COVID-19. No patients endorsed prior exposure to COVID-19 or recent international travel. COVID-19 was suggested in six patients incidentally on abdominal CT and two on chest radiography. At the time of presentation, no patients were febrile, and seven endorsed gastrointestinal symptoms. Five COVID-19 patients eventually developed respiratory symptoms and required intubation. Two patients expired during the admission. Patients with imaging findings suspicious for COVID-19 warrant prompt reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) testing even in low clinical suspicion cases. The prevalence of disease in the population may be underestimated by the current paradigm of RT-PCR testing with the current clinical criteria of lower respiratory symptoms and exposure risk.
Testimony before the U.S. House of Representatives – Committee on Financial Services – Task Force on Artificial Intelligence

I have divided this testimony into four sections, which discuss: (1) several types of automation currently being deployed in capital markets and the financial sector, and how they affect decision-making; (2) how machine learning (ML) and automation can help and hurt workers by disruption of the current and future financial services workforce; (3) what “RegTech” is and how ML can be deployed to help regulators better supervise financial institutions; and (4) algorithmic bias.
Interdigitated dynamic actin protrusions maintain stable cadherin adhesion

Cadherins build stable, cohesive sheets of cells using paradoxically weak bonds. Actin is thought to convert weak binding into strong adhesion either by transmitting myosin dependent pulling forces to adhesive junctions or by clustering cadherins in the plane of the membrane. Here, however, we show that continuous actin polymerization stabilizes cadherin adhesion by directly driving membrane protrusions, not by promoting contractility or cadherin clustering. Lateral membranes of epithelial cells are continuously pushed against each another by protrusions. Micrometer sized cadherin puncta, long thought to be clusters of cadherins, turn out to be patches of microspikes interlocked by cadherin homophilic bonds to hold neighboring cells together. When actin polymerization is blocked, protrusions cease, puncta disappear, and lateral membranes detach from one another. In contrast, inhibiting myosin II contractility has no effect on adhesion.
Validating Star-Oddi heart rate and acceleration data storage tags for use in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar)

Data storage tags (DSTs) record and store information about animals and their environment, and can provide important data relevant to fish culture, ecology and conservation. A DST has recently been developed that records heart rate (fH), electrocardiograms (ECGs), tri-axial acceleration and temperature. However, at the time of this study, no research using these tags had been performed on fish or determined the quality of the data collected. Thus, our research asked: do these DSTs provide reliable and meaningful data? To examine this question, Atlantic salmon (1.4 ± 0.7 kg) were implanted with DSTs, then swam at increasing speeds in a swim tunnel after 1 week of recovery. Further, in two separate experiments, salmon (2.4 ± 0.1 kg) were implanted with DSTs and held in a large tank with conspecifics for 1 week at 11 °C or 6 weeks at 8–12 °C. External acceleration (EA) and variation in EA (VAR) increased exponentially with swimming speed and tail beat frequency. The quality index (QI) assigned to ECG recordings (where QI0 means very good quality, and QI1, QI2 and QI3 are of reduced quality) did not change significantly with increasing swimming speed (QI0 ~ 60–80%). However, we found that the accuracy of the tag algorithm in estimating fH from ECGs was reduced when QI>0. Diurnal patterns of fH and EA were evident from the time the salmon were placed in the tank. Heart rate appeared to stabilize by ~ 4 days post-surgery in the first experiment, but extended holding showed that fH declined for 2–3 weeks. During extended holding, the tag had difficulty recording low fH values 0 can be manually calculated. With these DSTs, parameters of acceleration can be used to monitor the activity of free-swimming salmon. Further, changes in fH and heart rate variability (HRV) due to diurnal rhythms, and in response to temperature, activity and stressors, can be recorded.
Targeted next generation sequencing for elbow periprosthetic joint infection diagnosis.

Abstract 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene PCR followed by next-generation sequencing (NGS) was compared to culture of sonicate fluid derived from total elbow arthroplasty for periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) diagnosis. Sonicate fluids collected from 2007 to 2019 from patients who underwent revision of a total elbow arthroplasty were retrospectively analyzed at a single institution. PCR amplification of the V1-V3 region of the 16S rRNA gene was performed, followed by NGS using an Illumina MiSeq. Results were compared to those of sonicate fluid culture using McNemar's test of paired proportions. Forty-seven periprosthetic joint infections and 58 non-infectious arthroplasty failures were studied. Sensitivity of targeted NGS was 85%, compared to 77% for culture (P = 0.045). Specificity and positive and negative predictive values of targeted NGS were 98, 98 and 89%, respectively, compared to 100, 100 and 84%, respectively, for culture. 16S rRNA gene-based targeted metagenomic analysis of sonicate fluid was more sensitive than culture.
Restructuring a State Income Tax in Response to the Tax Reform Act of 1986

The Federal Tax Reform Act of 1986 (TRA) broadened the federal tax base, and consequently increased state tax revenue due to the link between the federal and state tax bases. Additionally, the TRA will also provide more equity in the state individual income tax. Going forward, the TRA will engender greater debate over state tax reform, specifically whether federal provisions eliminated by the act should remain intact at the state level. This article addresses the increase in state tax revenue as a result of the TRA, and future state income tax reform. Part I explains that this increase in revenue is not a “windfall” for the states, but instead a much-needed restoration of state tax bases after years of erosion caused by the federal tax system and the reduction of state and local aid. Part II discusses simplicity in tax systems, which is typically analyzed with respect to the federal personal income tax. This section argues that simplicity at the state level is more feasible than at the federal level, as the tradeoffs between simplicity and other objectives are less applicable to state tax systems due to their lower rates. Part III develops three instrumental concepts for post-TRA state personal income tax reform: (1) absolute conformity, (2) facial/recordkeeping conformity, and (3) nonfacial conformity. Part IV concludes the article by reiterating that eliminating complexity in state income tax systems is achievable because the conflict between simplicity and other goals of a tax system are less acute than at the federal level.
Validation of the food craving Acceptance and action questionnaire (FAAQ) in a weight loss-seeking sample.

Abstract Objective The Food Craving Acceptance and Action Questionnaire (FAAQ) was developed to measure psychological flexibility around food-related internal experiences (e.g., thoughts, feelings, and urges) and has two subscales, acceptance and willingness. However, the FAAQ factor structure has not yet been systematically validated with a clinically relevant sample. Methods Two weight-loss treatment seeking samples (total N = 462; 80.4% female) ages 18 to 70 (M = 52.6, SD = 9.8) completed the FAAQ before and after group-based treatment of overweight or obesity. Results Confirmatory factor analysis on the FAAQ's previously observed two-factor model produced poor model fit. An alternative 7-item model removing specific items that contributed to poor fit and were conceptually relevant to remove provided good model fit. The resulting revised 7-item FAAQ (items 1,3,6 removed) had adequate internal consistency and significant predictive validity for the Total score and subscales, and showed initial construct validity for the Total score. Conclusions Results from this study suggest researchers and clinicians should now use the 7-item FAAQ-II, which retains the Willingness and Acceptance subscales. Future research is needed with other relevant samples to confirm the FAAQ-II's factor structure and psychometric properties.
Development and Validation of an Aerothermoelastic Analysis Capability

Coupled aerothermoelastic simulations are required for the accurate simulation of many high-speed flow problems. Hence, the multidisciplinary analysis of such problems is the main focus of the curr...
The Invisible Academy: A US Perspective on the Japanese Academic Profession

This chapter discusses Japanese professors from the viewpoint of an American scholar. Over the past century and a half, the Japanese system has accomplished much—and its focus has shifted to the creation of new knowledge. Today the Japanese academic system is impressive both in accomplishing its initial goals and in achieving its new agenda. It is second in the world in terms of total expenditures as well as expenditures on research and development. It is the third largest in terms of the number of full-time professionals and the number of enrolled students. It is third in the world in terms of the number of articles published in internationally recognized journals. The great passion of the Japanese professor is to conduct research and publish interesting findings. While objectively the scale and productivity of the Japanese academic system is very substantial, subjectively the Japanese system may not receive the respect it deserves—particularly in the West.
Mitral Regurgitation Complicating Myocardial Infarction

A 78-year-old woman had a past medical history of atrial fibrillation and acute ST-elevation inferior wall myocardial infarction 2 weeks prior to presentation. Her hospital course was complicated by ventricular tachycardia, cardiac arrest, and cardiogenic shock. After discharge to a rehabilitation facility, she was readmitted because of acute decompensated congestive heart failure. She successfully underwent mitral valve repair with coronary artery bypass grafting (Figs. 10.1, 10.2, 10.3, 10.4, 10.5, 10.6, and 10.7).
Predicting alpine headwater stream intermittency: a case study in the northern Rocky Mountains

Abstract This investigation used climatic, geological, and environmental data coupled with observational stream intermittency data to predict alpine headwater stream intermittency. Prediction was made using a random forest classification model. Results showed that the most important variables in the prediction model were snowpack persistence, represented by average snow extent from March through July, mean annual mean monthly minimum temperature, and surface geology types. For stream catchments with intermittent headwater streams, snowpack, on average, persisted until early June, whereas for stream catchments with perennial headwater streams, snowpack, on average, persisted until early July. Additionally, on average, stream catchments with intermittent headwater streams were about 0.7 °C warmer than stream catchments with perennial headwater streams. Finally, headwater stream catchments primarily underlain by coarse, permeable sediment are significantly more likely to have intermittent headwater streams than those primarily underlain by impermeable bedrock. Comparison of the predicted streamflow classification with observed stream status indicated a four percent classification error for first-order streams and a 21 percent classification error for all stream orders in the study area.
On Collecting: From Private to Public, Featuring Folk and Tribal Art from the Diane and Sandy Besser Collection

Reviewed Medium: book Year: 2009 Pages: 160 Details: in association with University of Washington Press Publisher: Museum of International Folk Art ISBN: 978-0-295-98888-7 (soft cover). Prices: $35.00 USD(soft cover).
Study of magnetic fields and current in the Z pinch at stagnation

The structure of magnetic fields in wire-array Z pinches at stagnation was studied using a Faraday rotation diagnostic at the wavelength of 266 nm. The electron plasma density and the Faraday rotation angle in plasma were calculated from images of the three-channel polarimeter. The magnetic field was reconstructed with Abel transform, and the current was estimated using a simple model. Several shots with wire-array Z pinches at 0.5–1.5 MA were analyzed. The strength of the magnetic field measured in plasma of the stagnated pinch was in the range of 1–2 MG. The magnetic field and current profile in plasma near the neck on the pinch were reconstructed, and the size of the current-carrying plasma was estimated. It was found that current flowed in the large-size trailing plasma near the dense neck. Measurements of the magnetic field near the bulge on the pinch also showed current in trailing plasma. A distribution of current in the large-size trailing plasma can prevent the formation of multi-MG fields in the Z pinch.
Plasma-soluble marker for intraorgan regional flows

Measurement of regional plasma flow is needed to quantitate the delivery of substrates and drugs to cells. For estimating regional plasma flows an ideal deposition marker should be 100% extracted during transorgan passage and retained until local tissue concentrations can be measured. To escape quickly, the tracer must penetrate capillary endothelial cells rapidly. To be retained, it must bind or be transformed or accumulated by cells. Desmethylimipramine (DMI, mol wt 266.3), a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, is suitable. On injection of [3H]DMI and 131I-albumin simultaneously into the coronary artery inflow of isolated Ringer-perfused rabbit hearts at 37 degrees C, extractions were greater than 99% at plasma flows (Fs) up to 2.3 ml X g-1 X min-1 and greater than 94% with Fs up to 5.1. Retention at Fs less than 2.3 averaged 99.0 +/- 0.55% (SD, n = 6) at 0.5 min, 98.4 +/- 0.5% at 1 min, and 96.6 +/- 1.1% or greater than 95% at 3 min. Retentions were similar in two dog hearts in situ. With Fs greater than 3 ml X g-1 X min-1, there was greater escape, 4.2 +/- 2.7% at 1 min and 6.8 +/- 4.2% at 3 min. The fractional escape rates of loss at 2 min or more were about 1%/min at all flows, suggesting that the spatial profiles of deposition did not change thereafter. Thus DMI is nearly ideal as a "molecular microsphere."
Thoughts on the Laffer Curve

The first part of the paper by Canto, Joines, and Laffer, which is the only part I will discuss, sets up a simple general equilibrium model with two factors (both taxed proportionately) and one output, and proceeds to grind out the solutions. The model, while not entirely unobjectionable, is certainly not outlandish in any important respect. The authors make no claims that the model tells us anything about the U.S. economy; nor do they draw any policy conclusions. They use the model to provide intellectual underpinnings for the celebrated “Laffer Curve”—the notion that the function relating tax receipts to tax rates rises to a peak and then falls.
α-Conotoxin PIA Is Selective for α6 Subunit-Containing Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors

Until now, there have been no antagonists to discriminate between heteromeric nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) containing the very closely related α6 and α3 subunits. nAChRs containing α3, α4, or α6 subunits in combination with β2, occasionally β4, and sometimes β3 or α5 subunits, are thought to play important roles in cognitive function, pain perception, and the reinforcing properties of nicotine. We cloned a novel gene from the predatory marine snail Conus purpurascens. The predicted peptide, α-conotoxin PIA, potently blocks the chimeric α6/α3β2β3 subunit combination as expressed in oocytes but neither the muscle nor the major neuronal nAChR α4β2. Additionally, this toxin is the first described ligand to discriminate between nAChRs containing α6 and α3 subunits. Exploiting the unusual intron conservation of conotoxin genes may represent a more general approach for defining conotoxin ligand scaffolds to discriminate among closely related receptor populations.