cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Improving SQL with generalized quantifiers

A generalized quantifier is a particular kind of operator on sets. Coming under increasing attention recently by linguists and logicians, they correspond to many useful natural language phrases, including phrases like: three, Chamberlin's three, more than three, fewer than three, at most three, all but three, no more than three, not more than half the, at least two and not more than three, no student's, most male and all female, etc. Reasoning about quantifiers is a source of recurring problems for most SQL users, and leads to both confusion and incorrect expression of queries. By adopting a more modern and natural model of quantification these problems can be alleviated. We show how generalized quantifiers can be used to improve the SQL interface. >
Matching to relative reinforcement frequency in multiple schedules with a short component duration

Three pigeons performed on two-component multiple variable-interval variable-interval schedules of reinforcement. There were two independent variables: component duration and the relative frequency of reinforcement in a component. The component duration, which was always the same in both components, was varied over experimental conditions from 2 to 180 sec. Over these conditions, the relative frequency of reinforcement in a component was either 0.2 or 0.8 (+/-0.03). As the component duration was shortened, the relative frequency of responding in a component approached a value equal to the relative frequency of reinforcement in that component. When the relative frequency of reinforcement was varied over conditions in which the component duration was fixed at 5 sec, the relative frequency of responding in a component closely approximated the relative frequency of reinforcement in that component. That is, the familiar matching relationship, obtained previously only with concurrent schedules, was obtained in multiple schedules with a short component duration.
Virtual mission operation framework

The virtual mission operation framework (VMOF) is one of the project lifecycle engineering process improvement efforts initiated by the Institutional Technology Infrastructure program at JPL. The VMOF is composed of three frameworks: a model integration framework, a simulation framework, and a visualization framework. The model integration framework interfaces with spacecraft system design, mission design, and structure design. The simulation framework interfaces with the operation scenario design, environmental phenomena science, and science payload system design. The visualization framework interfaces with the flight system testbed, the ground system, and the science analysis. The three frameworks of the VMOF collaborate to create a comprehensive virtual mission operation that enables a "validation-in-the-loop" system design process and lifecycle-continuous science-return validation. This paper discusses the technical approaches for each framework implementation, challenges and approaches involved in streamlining mission information access, and on-going activities toward enabling model-based engineering design in a collaborative distributed environment.
Prediction of employment status following traumatic brain injury using a behavioural measure of frontal lobe functioning.

Objective : To examine whether a behavioural measure of frontal lobe functioning, the Brock Adaptive Functioning Questionnaire (BAFQ), could predict employment status following traumatic brain injury (TBI). Design : A discriminant function analysis was conducted to determine the ability of the BAFQ, along with other factors, to predict occupational status post-injury. Methods : Sixty-one TBI survivors completed a background information questionnaire, the BAFQ, and an employment status rating scale. Results : A factor analysis of the BAFQ sub-scales revealed two factors, one related to functioning in the orbitofrontal area, and one related to dorsolateral frontal lobe functioning. These two factors, along with background information, were entered into a discriminant function analysis, revealing a 77.4% accuracy rate in predicting occupational status post-injury. Conclusions : Demographic variables were found to differentiate employed from unemployed survivors. The BAFQ appeared useful in differentiating su...
Water balance for a predominantly surface irrigated district in southern Idaho

Water quantity and quality are being measured in an 82,000 ha irrigation district in southern Idaho to determine the effects of conservation practices, primarily conversion from furrow to sprinkler irrigation, for the Conservation Effects Assessment Project (CEAP). The percentage of sprinkler irrigated land has steadily increased from about 10% in 1990 to more than 30% in 2005. The objective of this study was to calculate a preliminary water and soluble salt balance for April through November, 2005. The water balance was calculated by subtracting measured outflow and estimated crop water use from measured inflow and precipitation. Precipitation was about 250% of normal in April and May, which delayed irrigation for many crops and probably increased the amount of return flow during these months. Water diverted for irrigation was 82% of the total water input to the irrigation district (inflow plus precipitation). Precipitation contributed 16% of the total input. Thirty-six percent of the diverted water left the irrigation district as surface return flow from April through November. This percentage will increase on an annual basis because return flow continues through the winter months after irrigation diversions have ceased. The irrigation district was a source of suspended sediment and a sink for soluble salts. April through November 2005 monitoring showed a net gain of 1620 kg ha-1 of soluble salts in the irrigation district, which could be a long-term concern if these salts accumulate in the root zone. Net sediment loss was 102 kg ha -1 , which is less than the 461 kg ha-1 measured during a similar study in 1971. These preliminary results indicate that converting to sprinkler irrigation, along with other conservation practices, has reduced sediment loss from this irrigation district. However, solid conclusions cannot be made until at least one year of monitoring is complete to adequately characterize annual trends, particularly the quantity and quality of non-irrigation season return flows.
Transcatheter closure of high-risk muscular ventricular septal defects with the CardioSEAL occluder: initial report from the CardioSEAL VSD registry.

Objectives: The CardioSEAL VSD registry was created to track safety of the device to close high-risk Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD). Background: This is the first report from the multi-centered CardioSEAL VSD registry reviewing demographics and initial results. Methods: Centers recruited patients with VSD who were high-risk for surgery due to medical condition or anatomic features. Results: 18 centers contributed data on 55 high-risk patients who had 61 VSD-occlusion procedures, with age of range of 5 days to 65 years and using one to six devices. Implantation approach was transvenous in 48, perventricular in five, and by combined approach in two patients. Ninety-two percent of intended VSD device implants were judged successful. Twenty-two patients had single VSD closed by single device in 18 and by two devices in four patients. All patients <8 kg underwent perventricular device implantation. Thirty-three patients had multiple VSDs which were closed by a single device in 23, and multiple devices in 10. At discharge echocardiography showed total residual flow through all VSDs in which devices were used was classified as “Small” or less in 74%, “More than small” in 11%, and “Uncertain” in 15%. Eight major adverse events occurred in 5/61 cases (8% event rate), with 3/81 devices embolized (4% embolization rate), 5/81 devices surgically explanted (6% explant rate), and no deaths judged to be procedure-related. Conclusion: This initial report from the multi-centered CardioSEAL VSD registry demonstrates the safety of the device to close high-risk VSDs. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Formula for surgical practice resuscitation in an academic medical center.

Abstract Background: Managing patient referrals for surgical consultation in an academic practice has traditionally emphasized clinical rather than service expertise. However, assuring both efficiency and accuracy in the initial consultation have become critical early measures of quality care. Methods: In partnership with the academic medical center administration, current practice was analyzed. Performance and communication standards were established around an ideal patient experience. A new ambulatory consultation process was developed; and flowcharting methods for resource allocation, statistical process control, and pre-visit data collection were used to reduce patient administrative time. Automated referral reports engaged referring physicians throughout the consultation. Results: Accurate insurance and referral authorization have been provided for all patients, including the 4% who are underinsured. Patient, provider, and referring physician satisfaction has increased significantly. Staff time investment has progressively declined from 52 ± 11 (95% confidence) minutes to 34 ± 10 minutes for most patients. Realignment of tasks has reduced the administrative time spent by the patient by 32% without compromising clinical time. New patient volume increased by 29% per year, maintaining regional market share. Conclusions: Expertise in the process of consultation delivery is feasible and will be increasingly critical to the survival of academic surgical practice in a competitive market.
Spike train probability models for stimulus-driven leaky integrate-and-fire neurons

Mathematical models of neurons are widely used to improve understanding of neuronal spiking behavior. These models can produce artificial spike trains that resemble actual spike train data in important ways, but they are not very easy to apply to the analysis of spike train data. Instead, statistical methods based on point process models of spike trains provide a wide range of data-analytical techniques. Two simplified point process models have been introduced in the literature: the time-rescaled renewal process (TRRP) and the multiplicative inhomogeneous Markov interval (m-IMI) model. In this letter we investigate the extent to which the TRRP and m-IMI models are able to fit spike trains produced by stimulus-driven leaky integrate-and-fire (LIF) neurons. With a constant stimulus, the LIF spike train is a renewal process, and the m-IMI and TRRP models will describe accurately the LIF spike train variability. With a time-varying stimulus, the probability of spiking under all three of these models depends on both the experimental clock time relative to the stimulus and the time since the previous spike, but it does so differently for the LIF, m-IMI, and TRRP models. We assessed the distance between the LIF model and each of the two empirical models in the presence of a time-varying stimulus. We found that while lack of fit of a Poisson model to LIF spike train data can be evident even in small samples, the m-IMI and TRRP models tend to fit well, and much larger samples are required before there is statistical evidence of lack of fit of the m-IMI or TRRP models. We also found that when the mean of the stimulus varies across time, the m-IMI model provides a better fit to the LIF data than the TRRP, and when the variance of the stimulus varies across time, the TRRP provides the better fit.
Mechanism of in-stent restenosis after second-generation drug-eluting stents (DES): is it different from bare-metal stents and first-generation DES?

First-generation drug-eluting stents (DES) have dramatically reduced the rate of in-stent restenosis (ISR) and subsequent target lesion revascularization (TLR) compared with bare-metal stents (BMS) (1). However, widespread use of first-generation DES has drawn attention to several unresolved, clinically relevant issues such as late stent thrombosis (ST) and late restenosis (2). Histopathological studies of first-generation DES have revealed that a chronic reaction to components of the permanent polymer reaction may lead to the delayed arterial healing, which is associated with increased risks of late DES failure (3,4). In addition, neoatherosclerosis is suggested as another cause of very late ST and late TLR (5). To overcome these limitations, biocompatible and biodegradable polymers have been developed and equipped with second-generation DES. Recent clinical trials demonstrated that second-generation DES has the improved efficacy and safety compared with those of first-generation DES (6,7). Nevertheless, second-generation DES, as well as first-generation DES, are not immune to ISR. In fact, Cassese et al. reported a large cohort of patients with angiographic surveillance that ISR rate of second-generation DES remains higher than 10% (8). Therefore, it is important to elucidate the mechanism of ISR after second-generation DES compared with that of BMS and first-generation DES, which may play a crucial role in the newly developed DES.
Transmural reentry during acute global ischemia and reperfusion in canine ventricular muscle

Coronary occlusion and reperfusion produce tachyarrhythmias. We tested the hypothesis that variations in transmural activation after global ischemia and reperfusion were responsible for arrhythmias...
Brief of Amicus Curiae Professor Kristin E. Hickman in Support of Respondents, United States v. Home Concrete & Supply, LLC (United States Supreme Court)

This amicus brief was filed before the United States Supreme Court in United States Home Concrete & Supply, LLC, No. 11-139, to discuss two issues raised by the procedures used by the Treasury Department in adopting Treas. Reg. 301.6501(e)-1, at issue in the case: (1) whether Treas. Reg. 301.6501(e)-1 is procedurally invalid under the Administrative Procedure Act in light of Treasury's use of interim-final rulemaking with only post-promulgation notice and comment and without a contemporaneous assertion of good cause; and (2) whether a procedurally invalid Treasury regulation can be eligible for Chevron deference. The brief summarizes and expands upon issues raised and arguments made in some of my previous scholarship.
Effects of Boron-Containing Lewis Acids on Olefin Metathesis

Boron-containing Lewis acids have shown a profound effect on the cross-metathesis reaction of 1-hexene. Grubbs first-generation catalyst shows over 100% improvement in conversion in some cases, while the yields increase by up to 50% with Grubbs second-generation catalyst. With the inclusion of boron-containing Lewis acids, compounds prepared using Grubbs second-generation-type catalysts display significantly reduced levels of isomerization.
Cervical Vertebral Osteomyelitis Presenting as a Retropharyngeal Abscess

Retropharyngeal abscess as a manifestation of nontuberculous cervical vertebral osteomyelitis in adults has been described rarely in the literature. We report a case of cervical vertebral osteomyelitis that was caused by Staphylococcus aureus and that presented as a retropharyngeal abscess in a 66-year-old man. In addition, we review related cases.
The threat to medical-records research.

The potential for misuse of personal information by insurers and employers has heightened concern about the confidentiality of medical records. Despite the absence of documented abuses related to approved research projects,1 legislation has been passed in Minnesota that restricts access to medical records for research purposes, and similar measures are proposed in some federal legislation. Such restrictions pose an obvious threat to patient-oriented investigations, such as observational outcome studies, that are based on existing medical-records data and require personal identifiers to link initial interventions with ultimate results. Clinicians and patients alike mostly take for granted the availability of this information, . . .
Effect of proteolytic enzymes on the hemagglutinating property of the parvoviruses, H-1, H-3, and RV.

SummaryThree purified Parvoviruses (H-1, H-3 and RV), treated with various proteolytic enzymes, showed chemically-induced changes in their hemagglutination pattern only after exposure to papain which enhanced the values found. This increase was probably due to a dual effect of the papain: one on the virus itself by removing bound contaminants and, two, on the red cell membrane, probably by reducing the negative charge. Although the HA titer of virus was altered by papain treatment, no change in the SDS-acrylamide electrophoretic pattern of the capsid proteins or in infectivity was observed.The authors thank Miss Barbara Madden for technical assistance.
Ultrastructural alterations of endocrine glands in Tay-Sachs disease.

Ultrastructural alterations of the endocrine glands in patients with Tay-Sachs disease have so far not been reported. Clinical observations of precocious puberty in baby girls with Tay-Sachs disease prompted an endocrine study which revealed an increase of either plasma luteinizing hormone or follicle stimulating hormone, or both, as well as an increase in 24-hour urinary estradiol, estriol, and testosterone levels. The ultrastructure of the pituitary, pineal, adrenal, and ovarian glands, and the cerebral cortex and hypothalamus from one of the children was studied in order to find a morphologic explanation for this phenomenon. In the anterior and posterior portions of the pituitary gland, cerebral cortex, and hypothalamus, typical Tay-Sachs lipid bodies were observed, whereas membranous lipid bodies were noted in the pineal gland. Adrenal and ovarian involvement were absent. The relationship of these organs to the precocious puberty, however, remains uncertain. The alteration in these endocrine glands is further evidence of the widespread distribution of these lipids, and suggests that the metabolic defect is ubiquitous in tissues of patients with Tay-Sachs disease.
Abstract B40: Suppression of Stat3 inhibits the invasive potential of malignant squamous cell carcinoma by interfering with the HGF/cmet/Stat3 signaling pathway

Cancer cell invasion and induction of the metastatic cascade are often the consequence of deregulated cell adhesion and migration. There is substantial evidence for the involvement of Stat3 in cell motility, migration, and invasion under normal and pathological situations. Stat3 activation is required for induction of genes encoding MMP‐1, MMP‐2, and MMP‐9, key components of tumor invasion. Through binding to its receptor, cmet, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) can regulate cell survival, growth, migration, and angiogenesis. cmet is often constitutively active in human tumors and HGF/cmet signaling is at least partially mediated by Stat3. Overall, these observations suggest that positive feedback signals in the HGF/cmet/Stat3 signaling pathway contribute to tumorigenesis. To explore the role of Stat3 in skin cell malignancy in a human cell culture model, our lab has overexpressed a dominant negative form of Stat3β in the tumorigenic SCC cell line, SRB12‐p9. We established SRB12‐p9 cell clones expressing FLAG‐tagged Stat3β‐Y705F (S3DN). Suppression of Stat3 activity impaired the ability of these cells to scatter upon stimulation with HGF, diminished their capacity to invade, and enhanced adhesion in vitro. S3DN cells also showed suppressed HGF‐induced activation of cmet, as revealed by a phospho‐specific cmet antibody. We next assessed the role of Stat3 in tumor invasion using in vivo mouse tumorigenicity experiments. When injected subcutaneously into immune‐deficient mice, S3DN cells produced tumors that were less locally invasive, though WT tumors were more differentiated as indicated by K10 immunostaining. Upon further examination of these tumors, we found that those arising from WT cells had more intense membrane staining for total cmet and phospho‐cmet than S3DN cells, indicating stronger cmet activity in these tumors. This pattern of cmet staining correlated with increased phospho‐Stat3 membrane staining in the WT tumors. Western blotting revealed a decrease in MMP‐2, MMP‐9, and cmet expression in the S3DN cells. These results are consistent with those from the in vitro experiments. Finally, we show that S3DN may interfere with Stat3/cmet interaction, as evidenced by co‐immunoprecipitation experiments, preventing the activation of cmet at the cell membrane. Ongoing studies will further address the effect of S3DN expression on cmet signaling and the effect this has on the HGF/c‐met/Stat3 signaling loop and tumor cell invasion. Citation Information: Cancer Prev Res 2010;3(1 Suppl):B40.
A C/MoS2 mixed-layer phase (MoSC) occurring in metalliferous black shales from southern China, and new data on jordisite

A new phase composed mainly of Mo, S, and C and referred to herein as MoSC occurs widely in organic-rich, metalliferous Cambrian black shales in south China. MoSC, which has previously been referred to as jordisite, has been studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electron microprobe analysis (EMPA), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), powder X-ray diffraction, (XRD), extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS), and catalytic activity. TEM data show MoSC to have a layered structure, with packets resembling molybdenite and graphite-like carbon that average five layers in thickness. Analytical data are consistent with an idealized formula of Mo3S6C10 but it commonly contains 1–3 wt% each of Fe, Ni, and As so that its composition may be better approximated by the formula (Mo,Fe,Ni)3(S,As)6C10. Selected area electron diffraction (SAED) patterns show a small number of broad, inhomogeneous rings corresponding to randomly oriented layers arranged in subspherical cells. A single broad, weak peak corresponds to a 10–11 A layer spacing in powder XRD diffraction patterns. Pseudomorphism after fossil bacteria implies an origin by replacement of sedimentary organic material. In its chemical properties and structure, MoSC resembles synthetic compounds used as catalysts for hydrodesulfurization (HDS) in the petrochemical industry. The large surface-to-volume ratio for MoSC may be an important factor in its relatively strong HDS catalytic activity. Cotype samples of jordisite from Germany, previously thought to be amorphous MoS2, were also studied by SEM and TEM. Jordisite occurs as sequences of a few curved layers that form sub-spherical units, with an appearance remarkably like that of MoSC. However, the layer spacing is ~6 A, like that of molybdenite. The ratio of Mo:S is ~1:2, and no carbon was detected, although it coexists with kerogen. Jordisite is thus confirmed to be a form of MoS2, but because powder diffraction-like SAED patterns were obtained, it is not amorphous.
Implementing a lessons learned process at Sandia National Laboratories

The Lessons Learned Process Improvement Team was tasked to gain an understanding of the existing lessons learned environment within the major programs at Sandia National Laboratories, identify opportunities for improvement in that environment as compared to desired attributes, propose alternative implementations to address existing inefficiencies, perform qualitative evaluations of alternative implementations, and recommend one or more near-term activities for prototyping and/or implementation. This report documents the work and findings of the team.
Characterizatics of Setting Tanks by Eddy Diffusion

The mathematical formulation of tracer dispersion curves of settling tanks has been investigated. As a result, the coefficient of eddy diffusion characterizing the settling zone can be obtained either analytically or by the graphical solution of the formulation. The available relations in the literature describing the effect of eddy diffusion on the settling properties of suspended particles can then be used to predict the corresponding particle removal. A similarity rule for modeling sedimentation tanks is deduced from the verified relations. It calls for preserving two ratios proposed as Hazen and Camp numbers in both the model and the prototype systems. The proposed similarity rule approaches Reynolds' law as the coefficient of eddy diffusion decreases, approaching the kinematic viscosity of the fluid.
Ten things we've learned from Blockly

Over the last four years the Blockly team has learned many lessons which are applicable to block-based programming in general. The following are a collection of ten mistakes we have made, or mistakes commonly made by others. Each issue is presented as noncontroversial folk knowledge without supporting data.
Thermodynamics of the Gas State

A review of the history that culminated in the ideal gas law begins this chapter, which establishes the variables for the gas phase. The approach is to reduce the generalized differential expressions of thermodynamics to one of practical use for a particular system defined by judicious choice of experimental conditions and the application of equations of a chosen model, such as the ideal gas or van der Waals gas. Real gases are described in terms of thermodynamic activity coefficients to measure the nonideal nature of the system and the molecular approach of the virial expansion and cluster diagrams. Graphics and approximate methods are introduced to solve for equilibrium conditions for a given a nonequilibrium initial state. Adiabatic expansion/contraction, work, entropy, activity coefficients, and criteria for stability of the gas phase for ideal and van der Waals gases are compared.
Neural Correlates of Sense of Effort in Active Duty Military Members with Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (P4.052)

OBJECTIVE: Active duty military members who had and had not sustained one or more mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI) were compared on an objective measure of sense of effort during functional MRI. BACKGROUND: Since the year 2000, over 333,000 military members have sustained traumatic brain injuries (TBI) [1]. Of these, 82.4[percnt] were mild. Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) refers to any injury to the brain resulting from external force that can cause confusion, loss of consciousness for up to 30 minutes, memory loss of up to 24 hours, and diffuse neuronal injury, which can result in cognitive problems [1]. Specifically, TBI often compromises the normal allocation of resources for attention and determination of effort. As service members who sustained brain injuries return from Iraq and Afghanistan, it is increasingly important to determine the relationship between effort and cognitive complaint in this population. DESIGN/METHODS: Active duty soldiers deployed to OIF/OEF/Endura with and without mTBI were recruited (n=140). fMRI scans were collected during a constant effort task (measuring rate of fatigue) [2] and an estimated effort task (measuring perception of effort) [3]. BOLD activation contrasted each task condition with rest. Associations between performance on the task and fMRI data are analyzed with MANOVA. RESULTS: Participants with mTBI are expected to perceive increased sense of effort, particularly in conditions of heightened task demands, compared to those without mTBI. Brain function measured by fMRI is also expected to differ between groups, particularly in frontal and parietal regions of the attention network involved in allocation. CONCLUSIONS: Sense of effort is impaired in military members who have sustained mTBI. Participants successful in a cognitive rehabilitation program will demonstrate within-subject changes in sense of effort, and its correlates in brain function, at multiple time points before, midway, and after treatment. Supported by: Department of Defense W81XWH-13-2-0025 Disclosure: Dr. New has nothing to disclose. Dr. Ramage has nothing to disclose. Dr. Robin has nothing to disclose. Dr. Tate has nothing to disclose.
Prospects for Improvements in Biocatalysts for Large Scale Applications

Abstract Enzymes display a number of potentially valuable properties as industrial catalysts, including large rate acceleration factors and high stereoselectivity for chiral molecules. Applications as industrial catalysts are currently limited by preparation costs, thermal lability and chemical instability. Recent advances in genetic engineering show promise of greatly reducing preparation costs and also offer the potential for producing mutant enzymes with altered substrate structural selectivities and increased thermal and chemical stability.
A real-world comparison of apnea-hypopnea indices of positive airway pressure device and polysomnography

The apnea hypopnea index (AHI) reported by positive airway pressure (PAP) device is widely used in clinical practice, yet its correlation with standardized AHI obtained during the sleep study is not established. The current study was conducted to investigate the correlation between AHI estimated by the PAP device and reported on the smart card with the AHI found during the PAP polysomnography (PSG) in the “real world” setting at an academic sleep center. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 280 patients who underwent a PAP titration PSG at Drexel sleep center, and were later prescribed a PAP device. The AHI was categorized in clinically relevant subgroups (as AHI ≤5 and AHI >5). The AHI at the final pressure on the PSG and the average AHI from the prescribed PAP device were compared. The results showed that in the majority (77.3%) of patients (126 of 163), the AHI from both PAP device and PSG correlated well and were in the same category (AHI ≤5 and AHI >5 respectively). The majority of patients (80.7%) with PSG AHI of 5, 61.5% patients reported good control, with AHI <5 on PAP device AHI. We conclude that in a majority of patients who were optimally titrated in the sleep laboratory, the PAP device continued to show optimal control at home.
A REVIEW – OPTIMIZE THE PROCESS PARAMETER FOR RAW MATERIAL CONSUMPTION FOR SPECIFIED DRY FILM THICKNESS IN FLAME SPRAY COATING ON EXTRUDER SCREW

Flame spray coating is a coating technique used extensively in industrial application to enhance the performance of engineering component like extruder screw, shafts & plunger ring set. Improved resistance to wear can be achieved, which eventually extend the life of component. Due to its simplicity in process and low initial cost of setup Flame spray coating techniques are widely used for coating on extruder screw. The deposition efficiency then becomes a vital output to survive in today’s competitive market. The deposition efficiency i.e. the raw material consumption depends upon the spraying process parameters. This paper focuses on tracing out various process parameters which has influence on deposition efficiency, coating thickness and quality of coating in thermal spray coating processes. Design of experiment such as Taguchi’s experimental design can be used for the optimizing these process parameters. Analysis of variance can then be useful to identify significant process parameters.
Excitatory and Inhibitory Neurons Utilize Different Ca2+ Sensors and Sources to Regulate Spontaneous Release.

Summary Spontaneous neurotransmitter release (mini) is an important form of Ca2+-dependent synaptic transmission that occurs in the absence of action potentials. A molecular understanding of this process requires an identification of the underlying Ca2+ sensors. Here, we address the roles of the relatively low- and high-affinity Ca2+ sensors, synapotagmin-1 (syt1) and Doc2α/β, respectively. We found that both syt1 and Doc2 regulate minis, but, surprisingly, their relative contributions depend on whether release was from excitatory or inhibitory neurons. Doc2α promoted glutamatergic minis, while Doc2β and syt1 both regulated GABAergic minis. We identified Ca2+ ligand mutations in Doc2 that either disrupted or constitutively activated the regulation of minis. Finally, Ca2+ entry via voltage-gated Ca2+ channels triggered miniature GABA release by activating syt1, but had no effect on Doc2-driven minis. This work reveals an unexpected divergence in the regulation of spontaneous excitatory and inhibitory transmission in terms of both Ca2+ sensors and sources.
The glycoprotein GPNMB is selectively elevated in the substantia nigra of Parkinson's disease patients and increases after lysosomal stress.

Abstract GPNMB is a glycoprotein observed upon tissue damage and inflammation and is associated with astrocytes, microglia, and macrophages. Gene variations in GPNMB are linked with Parkinson's disease (PD) risk, and changes in protein levels of GPNMB have been found in lysosomal storage disorders, including Gaucher's disease with glucocerebrosidase (GCase) deficiency. In the current study, GPNMB increases were seen in the substantia nigra (SN) of PD patients compared to age-matched controls. Such PD patients have a decrease in GCase activity and corresponding elevation of glycosphingolipids in the SN (Rocha et al., 2015a). Interestingly, transgenic mice modelling synucleinopathy did not show GPNMB elevations or altered GCase activity levels compared to wild-type mice. However, upon CBE-induced GCase lysosomal dysfunction with elevated glycosphingolipids in wild-type mice, there were similar changes in GPNMB levels in the brain as seen in PD patient brains. These results indicate that GPNMB levels do not depend on alpha-synuclein load per se but relate directly to the lipidopathy changes induced by CBE-mediated GCase inhibition. The experimental modelling of elevating glycolipids resulted in GPNMB elevations with glial activation in several brain regions in mice. This is the first demonstration of region-specific elevations of GPNMB protein in Parkinson's disease. The presence of GPNMB in PD patient substantia nigra, the induction of GPNMB after experimental glycosphingolipid increases, but not with pure alpha-synucleinopathy, point towards the potential for primary lipid-induced degeneration in PD.
Generalizing the effects of the baffling structures on the buoyancy-induced turbulence in secondary settling tanks with eleven different geometries using CFD models

Abstract Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models are applied to understand the effects of baffling structures on the buoyancy-induced turbulence flow in secondary settling tanks (SSTs). Eleven SST geometries, including four circular SSTs and seven rectangular SSTs, are evaluated in this study. The main research tool is a Fluent-based two-dimensional SST model. The model is verified with observations from literature. The validated model is then applied to compare the predictions of the effluent suspended solids (ESS) by the buoyancy-decoupled and buoyancy-coupled turbulence models on each SST geometry. Next, the effects of the SST baffling structures on the turbulence properties are compared and quantified. Additionally, stress tests are simulated on the SSTs, to predict their performances using both the buoyancy-decoupled and buoyancy-coupled turbulence models. The results for the original flow conditions show that the effects of the SST baffling structures on the buoyancy-induced turbulence can be divided into three zones: Zones A, where the baffling structures have negligible damping effects, and only the buoyancy-coupled turbulence model provides accurate predictions; Zone B, where the baffling structures partially dissipate the effect of buoyancy on turbulence, and the buoyancy-coupled model continues to provide accurate predictions but the buoyancy-decoupled turbulence model only provides qualitative but similar predictions; and Zone C, where the baffling structures fully dissipate the effect of buoyancy on turbulence, and both models provide similar, accurate predictions. Two indicators, the densimetric Froude number and the differences in turbulent kinetic energy can be used to predict the need for buoyancy coupling.
Rapid Emergency Response Survey

In 2017, a prolonged drought severely affected several countries in Africa and the Middle East. For less resilient countries, food shortages escalated into catastrophes, and famine-like conditions were created in Nigeria, Somalia, South Sudan, and Yemen, urging a rapid humanitarian response, but also developmental interventions to create resilience in the long term. The Rapid Emergency Response Survey was designed to collect data to inform the developmental response. Results were generated over an eight-week period, using mobile phone interviews that were designed to be applicable to other emergencies and crises. This chapter describes the methodology, sampling, and key results of the Rapid Emergency Response Survey, and draws lessons for the use of an adaptive questionnaire design to find a better trade-off between depth and comprehensiveness of data.
Field No-load Test and the Uncertainty Calculation of No-load Loss Measurement Uncertainty for UHV Disintegration Transformer

The application of UHV disintegration transformer effectively solves the difficult problem of the construction of UHV power transmission and transformation project in remote areas. In order to verify the quality of the disassembly, transportation and assembly of the UHV transformer, to ensure safe and stable operation of UHV power grid, it is necessary to carry out no-load test at the site of UHV disintegration transformer. The principle of no-load test is described and the parameters of no-load test are calculated, the feasibility of no-load test at the site is demonstrated and the parameters of no-load test equipment selection and design ensure the on-site no-load test carried out smoothly. Finally, the uncertainty analysis of on-site no-load test is analyzed and calculated, the result shows that the designed no-load test equipment can meet the requirements of no-load test.
Strongyloides stercoralis Infection in Solid Organ Transplant Patients Is Associated With Eosinophil Activation and Intestinal Inflammation: A Cross-sectional Study

BACKGROUND Strongyloidiasis can cause devastating morbidity and death in immunosuppressed patients. Identification of reliable biomarkers for strongyloidiasis in immunosuppressed patients is critical for the prevention of severe disease. METHODS In this cross-sectional study of solid organ transplant (SOT) candidates and recipients, we quantified Strongyloides-specific IgG to the recombinant NIE-Strongyloides antigen and/or to a soluble extract of S. stercoralis somatic antigens ("crude antigen") using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs). We also measured peripheral eosinophilia, 4 different eosinophil granule proteins, and intestinal fatty acid-binding protein (IFABP). RESULTS We evaluated serum biomarkers in 149 individuals; 77 (52%) pre-SOT and 72 (48%) post-SOT. Four percent (6/149) tested positive by NIE ELISA and 9.6% (11/114) by crude antigen ELISA (overall seropositivity of 9.4% [14/149]). Seropositive patients had higher absolute eosinophil counts (AECs) than seronegative patients (P = .004). AEC was positively correlated to the levels of eosinophil granule proteins eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) and eosinophil peroxidase (EPO) (P < .05), while IFABP was positively related to the 2 other eosinophil granule proteins (major basic protein [MBP] and eosinophil-derived neurotoxin [EDN]; Spearman's r = 0.3090 and 0.3778, respectively; P < .05; multivariate analyses slopes = 0.70 and 2.83, respectively). CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that, in SOT patients, strongyloidiasis triggers both eosinophilia and eosinophil activation, the latter being associated with intestinal inflammation. These data provide insight into the pathogenesis of S. stercoralis infection in the immunocompromised population at high risk of severe strongyloidiasis syndromes.
Responding to COVID-19 Stress: Disseminating Mind-Body Resiliency Approaches

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in unprecedented stress and uncertainty, particularly among vulnerable populations such as healthcare workers who are facing a multitude of current and looming economic and psychosocial stressors. As clinician-scientists delivering mind-body interventions in our hospital, we suggest applying evidence-based mind-body techniques that promote resiliency and adaptive coping during these difficult times. Interventions that package a variety of mind-body skills into one cohesive program, such as the Stress Management and Resiliency Training - Relaxation Response Resiliency Program (SMART-3RP), offer promise for meeting the variety of stress management needs (e.g., health concerns, isolation) present during the COVID-19 pandemic. From our work with frontline healthcare clinicians and other caregiver populations, we offer recommendations for adapting the delivery, modality, and content of mind-body practices during the COVID-19 pandemic and suggest key skills for promoting resiliency and buffering against the future stressors that lie ahead for everyone.
Relationship of LVEF and Myocardial Scar to Long-Term Mortality Risk and Mode of Death in Patients With Nonischemic Cardiomyopathy.

Background: Nonischemic cardiomyopathy is a leading cause of reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and is associated with high mortality risk from progressive heart failure and arrhythm...
Thm2 interacts with paralog, Thm1, and sensitizes to Hedgehog signaling in postnatal skeletogenesis

Mutations in the intraflagellar transport-A (IFT-A) gene, THM1, have been identified in skeletal ciliopathies. Here, we report a genetic interaction between Thm1, and its paralog, Thm2, in postnatal skeletogenesis. THM2 localizes to primary cilia, but Thm2 deficiency does not affect ciliogenesis and Thm2-null mice survive into adulthood. However, by postnatal day 14, Thm2-/-; Thm1aln/+ mice exhibit small stature and small mandible. Radiography and microcomputed tomography reveal Thm2-/-; Thm1aln/+ tibia are less opaque and have reduced cortical and trabecular bone mineral density. In the mutant tibial growth plate, the proliferation zone is expanded and the hypertrophic zone is diminished, indicating impaired chondrocyte differentiation. Additionally, mutant growth plate chondrocytes show increased Hedgehog signaling. Yet deletion of one allele of Gli2, a major transcriptional activator of the Hedgehog pathway, exacerbated the Thm2-/-; Thm1aln/+ small phenotype, and further revealed that Thm2-/-; Gli2+/- mice have small stature. In Thm2-/-; Thm1aln/+ primary osteoblasts, a Hedgehog signaling defect was not detected, but bone nodule formation was markedly impaired. This indicates a signaling pathway is altered, and we propose that this pathway may potentially interact with Gli2. Together, our data reveal that loss of Thm2 with one allele of Thm1, Gli2, or both, present new IFT mouse models of osteochondrodysplasia. Our data also suggest Thm2 as a modifier of Hedgehog signaling in postnatal skeletal development.
Racial and ethnic disparities in heart failure: current state and future directions.

Purpose of review This review discusses the current state of racial and ethnic inequities in heart failure burden, outcomes, and management. This review also frames considerations for bridging disparities to optimize quality heart failure care across diverse communities. Recent findings Treatment options for heart failure have diversified and overall heart failure survival has improved with the advent of effective pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic therapies. With increased recognition, some racial/ethnic disparity gaps have narrowed whereas others in heart failure outcomes, utilization of therapies, and advanced therapy access persist or worsen. Summary Racial and ethnic minorities have the highest incidence, prevalence, and hospitalization rates from heart failure. In spite of improved therapies and overall survival, the mortality disparity gap in African American patients has widened over time. Racial/ethnic inequities in access to cardiovascular care, utilization of efficacious guideline-directed heart failure therapies, and allocation of advanced therapies may contribute to disparate outcomes. Strategic and earnest interventions considering social and structural determinants of health are critically needed to bridge racial/ethnic disparities, increase dissemination, and implementation of preventive and therapeutic measures, and collectively improve the health and longevity of patients with heart failure.
A Novel and Accurate Palpation Method for Identification of the L4 Spinous Process: A Preliminary Study of Accuracy

Abstract Objective The purpose of this study was to assess a novel method of lumbar spinous process (SP) palpation by using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) high-signal marker reference standards for verification. Methods Clinicians (doctors of chiropractic) in this study used either: (1) the standard/traditional method of identifying the L4 SP using the supracristal plane (n = 14) or (2) a novel method that manually induced sacral motion to identify the L5 and then the L4 SP (n = 54). The clinicians, blinded to the results of each other, used a grease pencil to mark the location identified as the L4 SP. An MRI high-signal marker then was taped across this location. The MRI scans were assessed by a radiologist, blinded to the palpation method, who extended a line posteriorly from the superior and inferior extent of the L4 SP and determined whether the high-signal marker was within the lines bordering the L4 SP (ie, “on-target”). Results Palpation using the traditional method showed a 35.7% accuracy, with 5 of 14 “on target” and all “off target” being too superior. Palpation using the novel method showed 77.8% accuracy, with 42 of 54 “on target” and 3 “off target” being too superior and 9 “off target” too inferior. Conclusions The novel method performed better than the traditional method. The novel method shows promise. Additional prospective research should be conducted to fully assess the accuracy of the novel method compared with traditional methods of palpation.
An Evaluation of Screen Parallax, Haptic Feedback, and Sensory-Motor Mismatch on Near-Field Perception-Action Coordination in VR

Virtual reality (VR) displays have factors such as vergence-accommodation conflicts that negatively impact depth perception and cause users to misjudge distances to select objects. In addition, pop...
Variance in age-specific sex composition of Pacific halibut catches, and comparison of statistical and genetic methods for reconstructing sex ratios

Declines in size at age of Pacific halibut Hippoglossus stenolepis, in concert with sexually-dimorphic growth and a constant minimum commercial size limit, have led to the expectation that the sex composition of commercial catches should be increasingly female-biased. Sensitivity analyses suggest that variance in sex composition of landings may be the most influential source of uncertainty affecting current understanding of spawning stock biomass. However, there is no reliable way to determine sex at landing because all halibut are eviscerated at sea. In 2014, a statistical method based on survey data was developed to estimate the probability that fish of any given length at age (LAA) would be female, derived from the fundamental observation that large, young fish are likely female whereas small, old fish have a high probability of being male. Here, we examine variability in age-specific sex composition using at-sea commercial and closed-season survey catches, and compare the accuracy of the survey-based LAA technique to genetic markers for reconstructing the sex composition of catches. Sexing by LAA performed best for summer-collected samples, consistent with the hypothesis that the ability to characterize catches can be influenced by seasonal demographic shifts. Additionally, differences between survey and commercial selectivity that allow fishers to harvest larger fish within cohorts may generate important mismatch between survey and commercial datasets. Length-at-age-based estimates ranged from 4.7% underestimation of female proportion to 12.0% overestimation, with mean error of 5.8 ± 1.5%. Ratios determined by genetics were closer to true sample proportions and displayed less variability; estimation to within < 1% of true ratios was limited to genetics. Genetic estimation of female proportions ranged from 4.9% underestimation to 2.5% overestimation, with a mean absolute error of 1.2 ± 1.2%. Males were generally more difficult to assign than females: 6.7% of males and 3.4% of females were incorrectly assigned. Although nuclear microsatellites proved more consistent at partitioning catches by sex, we recommend that SNP assays be developed to allow for rapid, cost-effective, and accurate sex identification.