cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The occurrence in chicks of a paralysis of nutritive origin.

Abstract In a recent report by Norris, Heuser and Wilgus1 attention was called to the occurrence of a peculiar paralysis in chicks, involving the legs and feet. The cause of this paralysis appeared to be of nutritive origin as it was obtained by feeding a semi-synthetic ration containing commercial casein, and prevented by supplementing this ration with a vitamin concentrate from milk. It was suggested, therefore, that milk contains a hitherto unrecognized factor, vitamin in nature, essential for the prevention of this paralysis. Hart, Kletzien, Scott and Halpin2 took exception to this report, stating that they had frequently obtained paralysis in chicks in their laboratory during the past five years apparently identical in symptoms to those obtained by Norris, Heuser and Wilgus on rations which contained liberal quantities of liquid milk or skimmilk powder. These investigators concluded that, if the symptoms are identical, “it is impossible to accept the conclusion of . . .
CYR61, Estrogen Receptor and FOXO3a: The Interplay in Aggressive Breast Carcinomas.

Estrogen receptors (ERs) play key roles in breast cancer development and influence treatment outcome in breast cancer patients. More than 60% of human breast cancer tumors express ER and many of those are Estrogen (E2) dependent. ER positive tumors are considered to have a good prognosis; however some tumors escape to E2 requirements. Thus, the identification of molecules that regulate ER function may facilitate development of breast cancer treatment strategies. The pro-angiogenic factor CYR61 induces breast cancer cells to bypass the normal estrogen requirements for growth and acquire an estrogen-independent and antiestrogen resistant phenotype. However, the mechanism by which CYR61 regulates the hormonal response in breast cancer is not well understood. We over-expressed CYR61 in the ER positive cells MCF-7 (MCF-7/CYR61). Our results demonstrated that CYR61 induces constitutive transcriptional activity of the ER, which is independent of E2. Moreover, we demonstrated that CYR61 co-localizes with the ER in the nucleus and casually CYR61 transcriptional activity is regulated, at least in part by FOXO3a binding site. In search of the mechanism by which CYR61 that modulates hormonal response we discovered that CYR61 and FOXO3a interact in the presence of E2. This functional interplay among CYR61/ER/FOXO3a most likely plays a critical role in blocking hormone-response of breast cancer growth in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, these studies demonstrate that CYR61 and FOXO3a are novel therapeutic targets to halt hormone-independent breast carcinomas. Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(24 Suppl):Abstract nr 5145.
Condensates on crest of a wave

One of the remarkable things about low-temperature physics is that it offers a place where the hidden world of quantum mechanics can be revealed, often giving rise to spectacular effects. In 1995 the Nobel-prize-winning observation of Bose–Einstein condensation showed that a dilute gas of atoms cooled to sufficiently low temperatures could "condense" into an intriguing state in which all the atoms can be described by the same quantum wavefunction.
Mindfulness Matters in the Classroom: The Effects of Mindfulness Training on Brain Development and Behavior in Children and Adolescents

This chapter reviews evidence from developmental psychology and cognitive neuroscience on the effects of mindfulness training in children and adolescents. It is argued that mindfulness practices can be integrated into all classroom levels from preschool to high school, and that doing so has the potential to improve students’ brain functioning and lead to changes in brain structure that facilitate academic success. In particular, it is argued that mindfulness practice improves various aspects of self-regulation that are central to academic achievement. Directions for future research and suggestions for educators who wish to introduce mindfulness practices to their students are discussed.
A Novel Timesaving Method for Hepatobiliary Imaging for Suspected Acute Cholecystitis.

ABSTRACT Objective To optimize resource utilization of cholescintigraphy for suspected acute cholecystitis with a time-saving method without a loss in diagnostic accuracy. Materials and Methods Institutional review board approval was obtained for this retrospective study. Hepatobiliary imaging data for 81 patients with suspected acute cholecystitis were recalled for modification into 2 summed static images, using only the first and last 5 minutes of the dynamic images, thereby eliminating the middle 50 minutes of imaging data. Two nuclear medicine physicians interpreted the summed images to assess visualization, and those interpretations were compared to the original reports based on using all 60 minutes of dynamic imaging. A third nuclear medicine physician mediated rare inter-reader interpretive disagreements. Comparison of interpretations of time-saving and conventional methods and also inter-observer variability was achieved using the Cohen κ coefficient analysis. Results Interpretations rendered using the time-saving method showed near-perfect agreement with those based on the full dynamic imaging protocol (Cohen κ coefficient = 0.92 for both readers). Furthermore, nuclear medicine physician readers agreed with each other (Cohen κ coefficient = 0.95 between the 2 readers), indicating minimal inter-observer variability using this novel optimized technique. Conclusion In the setting of suspected acute cholecystitis, imaging resource utilization may be improved, via reduced gamma camera and technologist time, using a novel time-saving method without sacrificing diagnostic accuracy. Multicenter larger trials, however, will be necessary to establish reproducibility.
Touchscreen learning deficits and normal social approach behavior in the Shank3B model of Phelan–McDermid Syndrome and autism

SHANK3 is a synaptic scaffolding protein localized in the postsynaptic density and has a crucial role in synaptogenesis and neural physiology. Deletions and point mutations in SHANK3 cause Phelan-McDermid Syndrome (PMS), and have also been implicated in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and intellectual disabilities, leading to the hypothesis that reduced SHANK3 expression impairs basic brain functions that are important for social communication and cognition. Several mouse models of Shank3 deletions have been generated, varying in the specific domain deleted. Here we report impairments in cognitive function in mice heterozygous for exon 13-16 (coding for the PDZ domain) deletion. The touchscreen pairwise discrimination task was chosen by virtue of its: (a) conceptual and technical similarities to the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB) and NIH Toolbox Cognition Battery used for testing cognitive functions in humans, (b) minimal demand on motor abilities, and (c) capability to measure many aspects of learning and memory and complex cognitive functions, including cognitive flexibility. The similarity between our mouse tasks and human cognitive assays means a high translational validity in future intervention studies using preclinical models. Our study revealed that Shank3B heterozygous mice (+/-) were slower to reach criterion in the pairwise visual discrimination task, and exhibited trends toward making more errors (first trial errors) and more correction errors than wildtype mice (+/+). Open field activity was normal in +/-, ruling out hypo- or hyperactivity as potential confounds in the touchscreen test. Sociability in the three chamber test was also normal in both +/+ and +/-. These results indicate a deficit in discrimination learning in the Shank3B model of PMS and ASD, suggesting that this mouse model is a useful preclinical tool for studying neurobiological mechanisms behind cognitive impairments in PMS and ASD. The current findings are the starting point for our future research in which we will investigate multiple domains of cognition and explore pharmacological interventions.
Study on Persistence of Effectiveness of Live Attenuated S_(79) Mumps Vaccine Against Clinical Mumps

Objective To understand the persistence of effectiveness of live attenuated S79 mumps vaccine against clinical mumps. Method Cases were selected from China Information System for Disease Control and Prevention during Sep 2004 to Mar 2005. Each pair of cases was matched by gender,age and community. Vaccination information was obtained from Children EPI Administrative Computerized System. Vaccine effectiveness (VE) was calculated for 1 dose of S79 vaccine with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Result 469 cases and 469 controls were enrolled into study. VE of mumps vaccine for 1 dose versus 0 confer protection 86.0% (95% CI:77.2%～91.5%) of recipients and VEs for 1 dose are statistically different between 4 years (96.7%,95% CI:92.6%～98.5%) and 12 years (53.0%,95% CI:35.1%～ 66.0%) after S79 vaccination. Conclusion The live attenuated S79 mumps vaccine can effectively prevent clinical mumps and the protection rapidly deceases in 5th years after vaccination.
Relationship between IL-18 and Th1 Cytokines and Mycoplasma Pneumoniae in Children

Objective:To investigate the contribution of interleukin-18(IL-18)and T-helper type 1(Th1)to mycoplasma pneumoniae(MP)infection and assess the Th1 cytokine response to pulmonary involvement in children.Methods:The levels of IL-18,IFN-γ,IL-6,and TNF-α were detected by methods of ELISA in 65 children with acute-stage MP and 25 healthy controls.The children in both groups were detected by the chest computed tomography(CT-chest).Results:The levels of serum IL-18 and IL-6 were significantly higher in MP group compared with those in controls.The level of IL-18 was positively correlated with IL-6.The levels of IL-18,IL-6 and TNF-α were significantly higher in heavy degree MP group compared with those of mild degree MP group(P 0.05),but the level of IFN-γ was lower in heavy degree MP group compared with that of mild degree MP group.There was a positive correlation between the number of affected pulmonary lobes and serum IL-6 levels(r = 0.70,P 0.05).The serum levels of cytokines were significantly higher in patients with pleural fluid than those of patients without pleural effusion.The levels of IL-18 and TNF-α in pleural fluid were significantly higher than those in serum(P 0.01).There was no significant difference between the levels of IL-6 and IFN-γ.Conclusion:The serum level of IL-18 was significantly higher during the acute phase of MP infection.The results suggest that IL-18 and Th1 cytokines may play a significant role in the immunopathologic responses in MP infection.
Automating theorem proving with SMT

The power and automation offered by modern satisfiability-modulo-theories (SMT) solvers is changing the landscape for mechanized formal theorem proving. For instance, the SMT-based program verifier Dafny supports a number of proof features traditionally found only in interactive proof assistants, like inductive, co-inductive, and declarative proofs. To show that proof tools rooted in SMT are growing up, this paper presents, using Dafny, a series of examples that illustrate how theorems are expressed and proved. Since the SMT solver takes care of many formal trivialities automatically, users can focus more of their time on the creative ingredients of proofs.
Implications of Partner Agreement of IPV for the Gender Symmetry Controversy

Because romantic partners frequently disagree on the violence in their relationship, relying on nondyadic data for perpetration and victimization rates, especially to inform the gender symmetry controversy, is problematic. In order to have a more nuanced understanding of gender symmetry, we urge researchers to be cautious when drawing symmetry conclusions from non-dyadic samples. Furthermore, using both partners, we suggest that researchers employ more qualitative approaches to ascertain IPV agreement, note times in which either partner reports IPV as an indicator of the presence of violence, and investigate the extent to which conclusions regarding gender symmetry stem from participant selection bias.
Differences in Infant Care Practices and Smoking among Hispanic Mothers Living in the United States

Objective To assess the association between maternal birth country and adherence to the American Academy of Pediatrics safe sleep recommendations in a national sample of Hispanic mothers, given that data assessing the heterogeneity of infant care practices among Hispanics are lacking. Study design We used a stratified, 2-stage, clustered design to obtain a nationally representative sample of mothers from 32 US intrapartum hospitals. A total of 907 completed follow-up surveys (administered 2-6 months postpartum) were received from mothers who self-identified as Hispanic/Latina, forming our sample, which we divided into 4 subpopulations by birth country (US, Mexico, Central/South America, and Caribbean). Prevalence estimates and aORs were determined for infant sleep position, location, breastfeeding, and maternal smoking. Results When compared with US-born mothers, we found that mothers born in the Caribbean (aOR 4.56) and Central/South America (aOR 2.68) were significantly more likely to room share without bed sharing. Caribbean-born mothers were significantly less likely to place infants to sleep supine (aOR 0.41). Mothers born in Mexico (aOR 1.67) and Central/South America (aOR 2.57) were significantly more likely to exclusively breastfeed; Caribbean-born mothers (aOR 0.13) were significantly less likely to do so. Foreign-born mothers were significantly less likely to smoke before and during pregnancy. Conclusions Among US Hispanics, adherence to American Academy of Pediatrics safe sleep recommendations varies widely by maternal birth country. These data illustrate the importance of examining behavioral heterogeneity among ethnic groups and have potential relevance for developing targeted interventions for safe infant sleep.
Feedback stabilization of fluids using reduced-order models for control and compensator design

In many cases, feedback control of fluids can effect large energetic changes in the state while using relatively small amounts of control input energy. One such example is the stabilization of the wake behind a circular cylinder by slight rotations of the cylinder itself. For a range of low-Reynolds number flows, this can have a large impact on the drag and lift forces. To design such a feedback control law from first principles leads to large discretized systems and requires model reduction methods. The same is true for compensator design. While proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) is the standard tool for controlling fluids, interpolatory model reduction methods (IMOR) have emerged as effective candidates for very large-scale linear problems due to their ability to produce high-fidelity (optimal in some cases) reduced models with modest computational cost. Furthermore, they don't require the expensive simulations needed for POD and are input-independent. In this paper, we will use the interpolation framework for model reduction of differential algebraic equations (DAEs) to develop a linear feedback control law and compensator design. We then compare IMOR with POD for producing a low-order compensator. We find that switching from IMOR to POD for this step can lead to a compensator that does not preserve the stabilizing properties of the linear feedback operator term. Numerical experiments using the two-dimensional Navier-Stokes equations and stabilizing the flow behind a pair of circular cylinders demonstrates the effectiveness of retaining the IMOR basis.
Effects of high temperature aging on the microstructural evolution and mechanical behavior of SAC305 solder joints using synchrotron X-ray microdiffraction and nanoindentation

Isothermal aging causes degradation in the mechanical behavior of lead-free solder materials used in microelectronic packaging, leading to significant reductions in product reliability. In this work, we have characterized the aging-induced changes that occur in the mechanical properties and creep behavior of actual solder joints. These changes occur due to microstructure evolution and residual strains/stresses in the solder material, and measurement of these evolutions are critical to developing a fundamental understanding of solder aging phenomena. The enhanced high-energy X-ray microdiffraction beamline present at the synchrotron at the Advanced Light Source at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory was employed to characterize the solder joints after various aging times at 125 °C. Aging-induced changes in the Sn grain orientation, Sn grain distribution, and residual strain distribution were measured. The observed microstructural evolution was then correlated with changes in the mechanical response of the solder joints measured using nanoindentation.
Analysis and design of bipolar Dickson DC-DC converter

This paper presents a novel converter based on the Dickson voltage multiplier for high voltage applications. This converter will have two Dickson chains connected differently to improve the original Dickson voltage multiplier. The main advantage of this converter is that the stresses on the capacitor will be reduced by half, and the output voltage ripples are reduced. The required energy storage of the capacitor is 30% of the original Dickson voltage switched capacitor converter. The analysis and design of this converter are presented and verified by simulation. A 20W prototype was implemented to validate the analysis and simulation. The results show that the proposed converter is an improved version of the original Dickson and modified Dickson converters and it has higher efficiency up to 94%.
An Observational Overview of the Equatorial Ocean

Latitudinal variations of the Coriolis force refract planetary waves to create a waveguide that confines important wave motions to a narrow belt around the equator. Jets parallel to, rather than perpendicular to, the mean wind arise at low latitudes. Surface jets in opposite directions alternate in latitude. Vertically, jets of alternating signs are stacked one atop the other in the abyssal equatorial ocean like a stack of pancakes. The equatorial oceans have their own waves, their own jets and an ornery indifference to the rules and balances of extratropical dynamics. Some of the key observational phenomena are reviewed in this introductory chapter to lay a foundation for what follows. The alternating surface jets, deep internal jets, seasonal reversals of the Somali Current with the monsoons, upwelling in the Gulf of Guinea and the coupled hemispheric and oceanic oscillation of huge climatic impact, ENSO, are all briefly surveyed.
An Ontological Framework for Characterizing Hydrological Flow Processes

The spatio-temporal processes that describe hydrologic flow - the movement of water above and below the surface of the Earth -- are currently underrepresented in formal semantic representations of the water domain. This paper analyses basic flow processes in the hydrology domain and systematically studies the hydrogeological entities, such as different rock and water bodies, the ground surface or subsurface zones, that participate in them. It identifies the source and goal entities and the transported water (the theme) as common participants in hydrologic flow and constructs a taxonomy of different flow patterns based on differences in source and goal participants. The taxonomy and related concepts are axiomatized in first-order logic as refinements of DOLCE's participation relation and reusing hydrogeological concepts from the Hydro Foundational Ontology (HyFO). The formalization further enhances HyFO and contributes to improved knowledge integration in the hydrology domain.
The Settlers’ Empire: Colonialism and State Formation in America’s Old North-west

Review of: "The Settlers’ Empire: Colonialism and State Formation in America’s Old North-west," by Bethel Saler
Photo-Curable Metal-Chelating Coatings Offer a Scalable Approach to Production of Antioxidant Active Packaging

Synthetic metal chelators (for example, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, EDTA) are widely used as additives to control trace transition metal induced oxidation in consumer products. To enable removal of synthetic chelators in response to increasing consumer demand for clean label products, metal‐chelating active food packaging technologies have been developed with demonstrated antioxidant efficacy in simulated food systems. However, prior work in fabrication of metal‐chelating materials leveraged batch chemical reactions to tether metal‐chelating ligands, a process with limited industrial translatability for large‐scale fabrication. To improve the industrial translatability, we have designed a 2‐step laminated photo‐grafting process to introduce metal chelating functionality onto common polymeric packaging materials. Iminodiacetic acid (IDA) functionalized materials were fabricated by photo‐grafting poly(acrylic acid) onto polypropylene (PP) films, followed by a second photo‐grafting process to graft‐polymerize an IDA functionalized vinyl monomer (GMA‐IDA). The photo‐grafting was conducted under atmospheric conditions and was completed in 2 min. The resulting IDA functionalized metal‐chelating material was able to chelate iron and copper, and showed antioxidant efficacy against ascorbic acid degradation, supporting its potential to be used synergistically with natural antioxidants for preservation of food and beverage products. The 2‐step photo‐grafting process improves the throughput of active packaging coatings, enabling potential roll‐to‐roll fabrication of metal‐chelating active packaging materials for antioxidant food packaging applications. To address consumer and retail demands for “clean label” foods and beverages without a corresponding loss in product quality and shelf life, producers are seeking next generation technologies such as active packaging. In this work, we will report the synthesis of metal‐chelating active packaging films, which enable removal of the synthetic additive, ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid. The new synthesis technique improves the throughput of metal‐chelating active packaging coatings, enabling potential roll‐to‐roll fabrication of the materials for antioxidant food packaging applications.
A Primer on Librarians Sabbaticals: A Case Study of a Six-Month Sabbatical at Home and Abroad

Sabbaticals have long been part of the research culture in American higher education and academic libraries. A review of the scholarly literature shows that sabbaticals serve a number of purposes for librarians. By providing time for reviewing best practices at other libraries, working at other libraries within and outside the United States, or pursuing post-graduate degrees, sabbaticals have allowed those in academic libraries to improve their skill sets and knowledge base to improve themselves and their libraries. A successful sabbatical takes planning and focus; the author of the article will use his sabbatical, which took place between July and December 2015 in Salt Lake City, Utah, and St. Stephen's House, an Anglican Theological College and Permanent Private Hall at Oxford University, as model for this primer on having a successful sabbatical.
Decentralization in Pakistan - Lessons and Challenges

Decentralization is being rapidly adopted by many developing countries as a quick solution to the hydra headed problems faced by them. This paper analyzes the decentralization processes, challenges and lessons we can learn from a developing country like Pakistan. It analyzes the current devolution plan highlighting its potential opportunities and hurdles faced by district governments to draw lessons that can inform future improvements in the system in Pakistan. The rationale for this paper is to develop an understanding of the supporting factors and linkages between decentralization and democratic governance, which are critical for successful working of decentralization, and improving delivery of public services. My research question is that what are the supporting factors required to make decentralization process a success, in a particular context? This case study finds that adopted models do not work unless they fit the local context. With respect to Pakistan, land reforms, accountability mechanism, effective public participation, local resource generation capacity and role of political parties at grass root level are essential conditions for success of local government system and to strengthen democratic governance. Moving forward with decentralization processes, developing countries need to realize that without proper research and evaluation, whimsical experimentation with new systems like decentralization in political and administrative spheres can have serious repercussions for countries already struggling with limited resources.
Exponential temperature dependence of the electrical resistivity of V 3 Si

We report the results and interpretation of precision measurements of the electrical resistivity of ${\mathrm{V}}_{3}$Si in the temperature range ${T}_{c}\ensuremath{\le}T\ensuremath{\le}77$ K. Four samples of a wide range in residual resistance ratio (RRR) and with $15.1\ensuremath{\le}{T}_{c}\ensuremath{\le}16.8$ K have been investigated. We find that the resistivity of all the samples is well described by a temperature dependence of the form $\ensuremath{\rho}(T)={\ensuremath{\rho}}_{0}+b{T}^{n}+d\mathrm{exp}(\ensuremath{-}\frac{{T}_{0}}{T})$, where $n$ falls within the range $1\ensuremath{\le}n\ensuremath{\le}2$. The parameter $d$ is sensitive to the RRR of the sample, whereas $b$ and ${T}_{0}$ are relatively insensitive. The characteristic temperature ${T}_{0}\ensuremath{\approx}175$ K is essentially independent of the choice of $n$ within the stated range. A similar exponential term in $\ensuremath{\rho}(T)$ of ${\mathrm{Nb}}_{3}$Sn with ${T}_{0}\ensuremath{\approx}85$ K has previously been identified by Woodard and Cody. Nothing that in both ${\mathrm{V}}_{3}$Si and ${\mathrm{Nb}}_{3}$Sn the value of ${T}_{0}$ corresponds to the energy of [100] TA phonons near the zone boundary, we argue that the exponential term is due either to phonon-assisted interband scattering or intraband umklapp scattering. The reasons for the scattering effectiveness of this phonon will be discussed in light of recent band-structure calculations by Mattheiss and previous band models proposed to explain the anomalous normal-state properties of $A\ensuremath{-}15$ compounds. The nonexponential term in the resistivity is more difficult to characterize empirically and its origin is correspondingly more uncertain. We suggest it arises from intraband electron-electron scattering. The temperature dependence of the resistivity will be discussed with respect to anomalies observed in the low-temperature elastic constants, magnetic susceptibility, and specific heat of ${\mathrm{V}}_{3}$Si.
3D CFD Simulation of the Thermal Performance of an Air Channel Solar Heater

A detailed 3D CFD computer simulation model is developed using STAR-CD to describe the thermal performance of a typical rectangular cross-section air solar heater. Five hourly times of a typical day in an arid region have been considered to depict the transient nature of the performance of this system using the appropriate solar insolation and shadowing that result at different times of the day on the solar air heater. Heat loss by convection from the back side of the channel is accounted for. The length of the channel was not enough to achieve fully developed conditions in it but was chosen equal in its dimensions with other suggested dimensions of air solar heaters in the literature.
Generation of sound in marine mammals

Abstract The mechanisms for sound production in marine mammals utilize pneumatically-driven vibrations of anatomical structures derived from those of terrestrial mammals. As marine mammals inhabit a liquid environment, these structures have evolved to accommodate new protective and sound generating/transmitting functions in this medium. For example, while two marine mammal species (polar bears and sea otters) produce sounds in air only, members of all other marine mammal orders (Pinnipedia, Sirenia, and Cetacea) can produce sounds underwater. Marine mammals use the vocal folds of the larynx for generating most or all of the initial sound vibrations. One cetacean group (toothed whales) generates echolocation sounds by vibrating structures in the nasal region. Many marine mammals vocalize underwater without releasing air by capturing airflow from the lungs into collapsible/expandable internal reservoirs. These reservoirs recycle air back to the lungs, allowing multiple or long vocalizations without needing to resurface to breathe. The various tracheal, pharyngeal, laryngeal and nasal air sacs probably evolved as diving adaptations, enabling availability of extra air reserves at depth.
Application of the T-Matrix Method to Light Scattering from a Leaf

The T-matrix method describes the interaction of electromagnetic waves with arbitrarily shaped targets using an integral form of Maxwell’s equations. After estimation of single-scattering albedo, the imaginary part of the refractive index (k) and polarization curves for a cotton leaf were generated using the T-matrix model assuming two different types of scattering centers, one based on chloroplasts, and another based on the smaller grana stacks within chloroplasts. An independent estimate for k using the Kramers-Kronig relation yielded results similar to light scattering from grana-sized particles. The banding of polarization curves (-F12/F11) suggests that the nearly featureless region of light transmission and reflectance in leaves between 1–1.5 microns may be due to the damping of the natural oscillations of atoms due to the influence of polarization.
An Empirical Mode Decomposition-based detection and classification approach for marine mammal vocal signals

Detecting marine mammal vocalizations in underwater acoustic environments and classifying them to species level is typically an arduous manual analysis task for skilled bioacousticians. In recent years, machine learning and other automated algorithms have been explored for quickly detecting and classifying all sound sources in an ambient acoustic environment, but many of these still require a large training dataset compiled through time-intensive manual pre-processing. Here, an application of the signal decomposition technique Empirical Mode Decomposition (EMD) is presented, which does not require a priori knowledge and quickly detects all sound sources in a given recording. The EMD detection process extracts the possible signals in a dataset for minimal quality control post-processing before moving onto the second phase: the EMD classification process. The EMD classification process uniquely identifies and labels most sound sources in a given environment. Thirty-five recordings containing different marine mammal species and mooring hardware noises were tested with the new EMD detection and classification processes. Ultimately, these processes can be applied to acoustic index development and refinement.
Piezocone penetrometer measurements in coastal Louisiana wetlands

Abstract The importance of geotechnical properties and behavior of wetland soils is underscored by the many studies on wetland loss, e.g., marsh edge erosion, shallow subsidence, wetland collapse, and uprooting. This study provides an overview of using a modified piezocone penetrometer to rapidly evaluate marsh shear strength, porosity, and electrical conductivity over a range of ecological, geological, and hydrologic wetland conditions. Field campaigns were conducted in Terrebonne Bay near Cocodrie, Louisiana to evaluate the efficacy of the cone to characterize the shear strength and stratigraphy of salt marshes. Based on the field measurements, the test method was found to be repeatable and consistent with the ASTM D5778 standard guideline. The piezocone soundings were used to evaluate the shear strength and stratigraphy of the vegetation root mat, organic clay, and inorganic clay layers. These findings were synthesized into an idealized wetland geotechnical framework for developing mechanistic models of wetland loss.
“Assassin’s Creed reminds us that history is human experience”: Students’ senses of empathy while playing a narrative video game

Research into students’ interactions with historical video games is limited and tends to focus on teacher mediation. As a result, little is known about the meanings that students independently construct as they consume this form of media. This qualitative interview study uses Assassin’s Creed, a narrative video game with a historical setting, as a site of inquiry. Students described a sense of immediate access to history that contrasted with school-based learning, a sense of human connection to people in the past, and increased perception of multiple perspectives in history. They also evidenced a willingness to allow the games to rewrite their beliefs about history, and theorized about the games’ historical accuracy. However, students tended to miss opportunities for critical engagement with this visceral sense of immersive experience. As such, implications are raised regarding ways to promote critical investigation into gameplay experiences as well as the importance of fostering a sense of human connection to history through social education.
A quantitative and generalized assessment of bubble-induced turbulence models for gas-liquid systems

Abstract In gas-liquid systems, bubble motion and interaction with the surrounding liquid medium serves to dramatically modify the liquid turbulent kinetic energy profile. While several two-equation bubble-induced turbulence (BIT) models have been advanced to predict this phenomenon, the intrinsic non-linearities that accompany the solution of the governing equations, interfacial forces, and turbulence models complicate their assessment. This hinders understanding of model performance and obstructs necessary model improvements. Here, the mathematical formulation of existing BIT models is investigated, and selected models are quantitatively assessed through simulation of the entire Liu (1989) air/water pipe flow experimental database in OpenFOAM. Critical to this work is the approach adopted to decouple the connection between turbulence and momentum closures, which ensures physically consistent volume fraction profiles and enables fair comparison between models. The assessment reveals that existing closures struggle with reliably predicting the turbulent kinetic energy profile as well as routinely worsen mean flow predictions. These observations are used to propose a pathway for the assembly of new BIT model formulations.
Digoxin is Associated with Higher Quality of Life in LVAD Recipients.

Purpose To examine the effects of digoxin on functional capacity and quality of life as measured by the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) and Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire Overall Summary Score (KCCQ) in patients receiving the Heartware HVAD system. Methods HVAD patients who remained alive on device support at 6 months from the ADVANCE + CAP, ENDURANCE + Supplemental trials were eligible. Pts were separated by digoxin use: those who were discharged from the index hospitalization on digoxin and remained on digoxin through 6 months (DIG, n=161) and those discharged from the index hospitalization not on digoxin and remained off through 6 months (NO DIG, n=533). Differences in 6MWT and KCCQ were compared between groups at baseline, 6, and 12 months. Adverse events were compared between groups from baseline through 6 months. Results Baseline characteristics were similar: Mean age was 59 years and 23% of patients were female. Serum creatinine was 0.9mg/dL ± 0.7. History of atrial fibrillation was more common in the DIG group (57.8% vs 42.9%, p = 0.001). Compared to the NO DIG group, the DIG group had greater improvements in KCCQ score at 6 months (+ 36.8 vs. + 27.7, p=0.0001) and at 12 months (+35.9 vs +29.5, p=0.01). 6MWT was similar between groups (Table 1). Device malfunction within 6 months was more common in the DIG group [18% (0.42 EPPY) vs 9.2% (0.21 EPPY), p = 0.002]. Rates of other adverse events including 6-month re-hospitalization [47.8% (2.21 EPPY) vs 42.9% (1.8 EPPY), p=0.10] were similar. Conclusion LVAD recipients maintained on chronic digoxin for at least 6 mo had greater improvements in QOL scores compared to those not treated with digoxin despite having higher rates of device malfunction and similar improvements in functional capacity. Prospective study is warranted.
Squeezing workers’ rights in global supply chains: purchasing practices in the Bangladesh garment export sector in comparative perspective

Workers’ rights violations have been pervasive in many global supply chains. In the apparel sector, production workers often face precarious working conditions, including persistently low pay, exce...
Medical Management Before Bariatric Surgery

The evaluation of patients before bariatric surgery requires identification and optimization of the known comorbidities associated with obesity. Evaluation begins with cardiac and pulmonary assessment for elective noncardiac surgery for patients with severe obesity published in Circulation in 2009 by the AHA.1 The algorithm uses a 5-step approach and evaluation after a comprehensive history and physical exam and lab testing completed. A standardized preoperative checklist and Clinical Practice Guidelines were updated in 2013 by the American Associations of Clinical Endocrinologists (ACCE), The Obesity Society (TOS), and the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS). The Clinical Practice Guidelines have 74 recommendations for the preoperative evaluation of the bariatric surgery patient including lab testing, nutritional screening, endocrine evaluation, and the cardiopulmonary evaluation including sleep apnea screening. During the medical evaluation usually within 2–4 weeks before bariatric surgery, the use of an additional algorithm from the AHA/ACC utilizes a 7-step algorithm to determine a patient’s functional capacity, cardiopulmonary risk, and the need for further cardiac evaluation to include stress testing, cardiology, or pulmonary evaluation. In summary, utilization of the AHA science advisory cardiac and pulmonary assessment of the patient with severe obesity before bariatric surgery is extremely helpful in a timely diagnosis, management, and optimization of comorbid conditions that can impact postoperative outcomes.
Statistical Analysis of the Time Taken for Various Underwater Tasks

In April 1984 the Department of Energy Advisory Group for Underwater Technology (AGUT) commissioned Wharton Williams to carry out a study to identify the exact nature and type of diving operations carried out in the North Sea. The study was to encompass the extent, range and duration of diver tasks undertaken in the course of drilling, construction, inspection and maintenance support activities. The aim of the project was to provide the necessary data to enable designers of remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) to understand in detail the role of the diver, and thereby how to replace him. A secondary objective of the project was to provide the necessary break-down of data required to plan the various offshore operations.
Patients With a Hypotrophic Labrum Achieve Similar Outcomes After Primary Labral Repair Compared With Patients With a Normal-Sized Labrum: A Matched Cohort Analysis of 346 Patients With Femoroacetabular Impingement Syndrome

Purpose To compare patient functional scores and rates of achieving minimum clinically important differences (MCID) and patient acceptable symptomatic state (PASS) between patients with a hypotrophic labrum with those with a normal labrum width at a minimum 1-year follow-up from arthroscopic treatment of femoroacetabular impingement syndrome. Methods Data from consecutive patients who underwent primary hip arthroscopy between November 2015 and July 2018 for the treatment of femoroacetabular impingement syndrome were analyzed. Baseline demographic data, preoperative patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), and minimum 1-year PROMs, including Hip Outcome Score-Activities of Daily Living, Hip Outcome Score-Sports Subscale, modified Harris Hip Score, international Hip Outcome Tool 12 questions, and visual analog scale for pain and satisfaction were recorded. The labrum size was determined using an arthroscopic probe at the 12- to 2-o’clock position with a hypotrophic labrum being defined as Results A total of 346 patients were included in the study with an average age of 31.4 ± 11.9 and a majority being female (72.0%). There were 173 in each of the normal and hypotrophic groups. There were no significant differences seen in 1-year PROMs between the 2 groups (P > .05 for all). The normal labrum group achieved MCID at a rate of 75% to 84% and PASS at a rate of 51% to 70%. The hypotrophic labrum group achieved MCID at a rate of 70% to 85% and PASS at a rate of 57% to 71%. There were no significant differences in rates between each group (P > .05 for all). Conclusions Patients with an intraoperative finding of labral hypotrophy achieve 1-year meaningful clinical outcome at the same rate as those with normal labral width following arthroscopic labral repair. Level of Evidence III, Case–control study
Controlling Selectivity and Stability in the Hydrocarbon Wet Reforming Reaction using Well-Defined Ni+Ga Intermetallic Compound Catalysts

In this study, we present the use of compositionally and structurally well-defined, oxide-supported nanoparticle Ni + Ga intermetallic compound (IMC) catalysts in the wet reforming of propane. The ...
Overfeeding and Substrate Availability, But Not Age or BMI, Alter Human Satellite Cell Function

Satellite cells (SC) aid skeletal muscle growth and regeneration. SC-mediated skeletal muscle repair can both be influenced by and exacerbate several diseases linked to a fatty diet, obesity, and aging. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of different lifestyle factors on SC function, including body mass index (BMI), age, and high-fat overfeeding. For this study, SCs were isolated from the vastus lateralis of sedentary young (18–30 years) and sedentary older (60–80 years) men with varying BMIs (18–32 kg/m2), as well as young sedentary men before and after four weeks of overfeeding (OVF) (55% fat/ + 1000 kcal, n = 4). The isolated SCs were then treated in vitro with a control (5 mM glucose, 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS)) or a high substrate growth media (HSM) (10% FBS, 25 mM glucose, and 400 μM 2:1 oleate–palmitate). Cells were assessed on their ability to proliferate, differentiate, and fuel substrate oxidation after differentiation. The effect of HSM was measured as the percentage difference between SCs exposed to HSM compared to control media. In vitro SC function was not affected by donor age. OVF reduced SC proliferation rates (–19% p < 0.05) but did not influence differentiation. Cellular proliferation in response to HSM was correlated to the donor’s body mass index (BMI) (r2 = 0.6121, p < 0.01). When exposed to HSM, SCs from normal weight (BMI 18–25 kg/m2) participants exhibited reduced proliferation and fusion rates with increased fatty-acid oxidation (p < 0.05), while SCs from participants with higher BMIs (BMI 25–32 kg/m2) demonstrated enhanced proliferation in HSM. HSM reduced proliferation and fusion (p < 0.05) in SCs isolated from subjects before OVF, whereas HSM exposure accelerated proliferation and fusion in SCs collected following OVF. These results indicated that diet has a greater influence on SC function than age and BMI. Though age and BMI do not influence in vitro SC function when grown in controlled conditions, both factors influenced the response of SCs to substrate challenges, indicating age and BMI may mediate responses to diet.
Solitary congenital Langerhans cell histiocytoma: A pattern of benign, spontaneous regression in patients with single lesion disease

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is the neoplastic proliferation of dendritic langerin-positive histiocytes manifesting as either single system unifocal, single system multifocal, or multisystem disease. The designation Hashimoto-Pritzker, or self-healing LCH, has fallen out of favor since it is impossible to predict at time of diagnosis whether the disease is truly self-remitting or capable of spreading to other organ systems. We review the English literature on solitary congenital Langerhans cell histiocytoma, draw novel conclusions from the data provided by 81 cases in the literature, and illustrate a typical presentation of the diagnosis with a previously unreported patient. Each of the patients diagnosed with solitary congenital histiocytoma experienced spontaneous resolution and had no signs of systemic disease at latest follow-up. Furthermore, we offer an analysis of the histopathological findings available from the 81 cases and our patient. Based on our study observations, we propose solitary congenital Langerhans cell histiocytoma may portend a good prognosis and represent a distinct entity. However, until further confirmation with prospective studies, we recommend clinicians continue conducting appropriate workup to rule out systemic involvement.
Double somatic mismatch repair gene pathogenic variants as common as Lynch syndrome among endometrial cancer patients

Abstract Objective Lynch syndrome is the most common cause of inherited endometrial cancer, attributable to germline pathogenic variants (PV) in mismatch repair (MMR) genes. Tumor microsatellite instability (MSI-high) and MMR IHC abnormalities are characteristics of Lynch syndrome. Double somatic MMR gene PV also cause MSI-high endometrial cancers. The aim of this study was to determine the relative frequency of Lynch syndrome and double somatic MMR PV. Methods 341 endometrial cancer patients enrolled in the Ohio Colorectal Cancer Prevention Initiative at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center from 1/1/13–12/31/16. All tumors underwent immunohistochemical (IHC) staining for the four MMR proteins, MSI testing, and MLH1 methylation testing if the tumor was MMR-deficient (dMMR). Germline genetic testing for Lynch syndrome was undertaken for all cases with dMMR tumors lacking MLH1 methylation. Tumor sequencing followed if a germline MMR gene PV was not identified. Results Twenty-seven percent (91/341) of tumors were either MSI-high or had abnormal IHC indicating dMMR. As expected, most dMMR tumors had MLH1 methylation; (69, 75.8% of the dMMR cases; 20.2% of total). Among the 22 (6.5%) cases with dMMR not explained by methylation, 10 (2.9% of total) were found to have Lynch syndrome (6 MSH6, 3 MSH2, 1 PMS2). Double somatic MMR PV accounted for the remaining 12 dMMR cases (3.5% of total). Conclusions Since double somatic MMR gene PV are as common as Lynch syndrome among endometrial cancer patients, paired tumor and germline testing for patients with non-methylated dMMR tumor may be the most efficient approach for LS screening.
Solid immersion meniscus lens (SIMlens) enables multi-resolution open-top light-sheet microscopy

Open-top light-sheet (OTLS) microscopy has recently been developed as a high-throughput, easy-to-use 3D microscopy technique for large specimens [1-2]. The oblique angle of the optical beams relative to the sample plate introduces challenges however, and previous solutions (such as a solid immersion lens) have been limiting [1]. Therefore we have developed a solid immersion meniscus lens (SIMlens), which enables optical beams to transition from air to a higher-index immersion medium without introducing aberrations [3]. A SIMlens is compatible with a turret of air objectives, enabling efficient multi-resolution workflows [4]. We present the first multi-resolution OTLS microscope, enabled by a SIMlens.