cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
On an improved sub-regional water resources management representation for integration into earth system models

Abstract. Human influence on the hydrologic cycle includes regulation and storage, consumptive use and overall redistribution of water resources in space and time. Representing these processes is essential for applications of earth system models in hydrologic and climate predictions, as well as impact studies at regional to global scales. Emerging large-scale research reservoir models use generic operating rules that are flexible for coupling with earth system models. Those generic operating rules have been successful in reproducing the overall regulated flow at large basin scales. This study investigates the uncertainties of the reservoir models from different implementations of the generic operating rules using the complex multi-objective Columbia River Regulation System in northwestern United States as an example to understand their effects on not only regulated flow but also reservoir storage and fraction of the demand that is met. Numerical experiments are designed to test new generic operating rules that combine storage and releases targets for multi-purpose reservoirs and to compare the use of reservoir usage priorities and predictors (withdrawals vs. consumptive demands, as well as natural vs. regulated mean flow) for configuring operating rules. Overall the best performing implementation is with combined priorities rules (flood control storage targets and irrigation release targets) set up with mean annual natural flow and mean monthly withdrawals. The options of not accounting for groundwater withdrawals, or on the contrary, of assuming that all remaining demand is met through groundwater extractions, are discussed.
2D GPR imaging via Linear Sampling Method: A performance assessment tool

In this communication we discuss the adoption of the Linear Sampling Method (LSM) to data collected within a GPR array-based configuration. In particular, since this simple and effective non-iterative method requires multi-static multiview data to perform the imaging task, we introduce an analytic tool to appraise the relationship between the array aperture and the method's performance and provide numerical examples to show the feasibility of the LSM in 2-D GPR surveys.
New views of male pelvic anatomy: role of computer-generated 3D images.

There is considerable controversy concerning the role of cadaveric dissection in teaching gross anatomy and the potential of using 3D computer-generated images to substitute for actual laboratory dissections. There are currently few high-quality 3D virtual models of anatomy available to evaluate the utility of computer-generated images. Existing 3D models are frequently of structures that are easily examined in three dimensions by removal from the cadaver, i.e., the heart, skull, and brain. We have focused on developing a 3D model of the pelvis, a region that is conceptually difficult and relatively inaccessible for student dissection. We feel students will benefit tremendously from 3D views of the pelvic anatomy. We generated 3D models of the male pelvic anatomy from hand-segmented color Visible Human Male cryosection data, reconstructed and visualized by Columbia University’s in-house 3D Vesalius™ Visualizer. 1 These 3D models depict the anatomy of the region in a realistic true-to-life color and texture. They can be used to create 3D anatomical scenes, with arbitrary complexity, where the component anatomical structures are displayed in correct 3D anatomical relationships. Moreover, a sequence of 3D scenes can be defined to simulate actual dissection. Structures can be added in a layered sequence from the bony framework to build from the “inside-out” or disassembled much like a true laboratory dissection from the “outside-in.” These 3D reconstructed anatomical models can provide views of the structures from new perspectives and have the potential to improve understanding of the anatomical relationships of the pelvic region (http://www.cellbiology.lsuhsc.edu/People/Faculty/ Venuti_Figures/movie_index.html). Clin. Anat. 17:261–271, 2004. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Automatic reconstruction of 3D neuron structures using a graph-augmented deformable model

Motivation: Digital reconstruction of 3D neuron structures is an important step toward reverse engineering the wiring and functions of a brain. However, despite a number of existing studies, this task is still challenging, especially when a 3D microscopic image has low single-to-noise ratio and discontinued segments of neurite patterns. Results: We developed a graph-augmented deformable model (GD) to reconstruct (trace) the 3D structure of a neuron when it has a broken structure and/or fuzzy boundary. We formulated a variational problem using the geodesic shortest path, which is defined as a combination of Euclidean distance, exponent of inverse intensity of pixels along the path and closeness to local centers of image intensity distribution. We solved it in two steps. We first used a shortest path graph algorithm to guarantee that we find the global optimal solution of this step. Then we optimized a discrete deformable curve model to achieve visually more satisfactory reconstructions. Within our framework, it is also easy to define an optional prior curve that reflects the domain knowledge of a user. We investigated the performance of our method using a number of challenging 3D neuronal image datasets of different model organisms including fruit fly, Caenorhabditis elegans, and mouse. In our experiments, the GD method outperformed several comparison methods in reconstruction accuracy, consistency, robustness and speed. We further used GD in two real applications, namely cataloging neurite morphology of fruit fly to build a 3D ‘standard’ digital neurite atlas, and estimating the synaptic bouton density along the axons for a mouse brain. Availability: The software is provided as part of the V3D-Neuron 1.0 package freely available at http://penglab.janelia.org/proj/v3d Contact: pengh@janelia.hhmi.org
Cl4(PhCN)W(NPh) as a single-source MOCVD precursor for deposition of tungsten nitride (WNx) thin films

Abstract The tungsten phenylimido complex Cl4(PhCN)W(NPh) (2b) was tested as a single-source precursor for growth of tungsten nitride (WNx) thin films, and results were compared to films previously deposited from the isopropylimido complexes Cl4(RCN)W(NiPr) (1a, R=CH3; 1b, R=Ph). Films deposited from 2b exhibited growth rates ranging from 2 to 21 A min−1 over a temperature range of 475–750 °C, and the apparent activation energy for film growth in the kinetically controlled regime was 1.41±0.58 eV. Amorphous β-WNx films were deposited below 500 °C, with minimum film resistivity and sheet resistance of 225 μΩ-cm and 75 Ω/□, respectively, observed for deposition at 475 °C. In contrast, films deposited from the isopropylimido complexes 1a,b exhibited higher growth rates and higher nitrogen content over a similar temperature range. These differences are attributed to the higher dissociation energy of the imido NC bond in phenylimido complex 2b. Mass spectrometry fragmentation patterns are consistent with this behavior.
Kayser-Fleischer ring as the presenting sign of Wilson disease.

Abstract PURPOSE: To describe a case in which the recognition by the ophthalmologist of Kayser-Fleischer rings played a crucial role in the diagnosis of Wilson disease (hepatolenticular degeneration). DESIGN: Interventional case report. METHODS: An 18-year-old woman was found to have bilateral peripheral golden brown pigment deposits at the level of the Descemet membrane consistent with Kayser-Fleischer rings. She initially denied systemic symptoms. RESULTS: The serum cerumoplasmin level of the patient was normal. Liver function tests were also normal. Further evaluations with 24-hour urine copper assay and liver biopsy were positive for Wilson disease. She underwent anticopper therapy and, 6 months later, reported improved concentration and balance. No appreciable change occurred in the Kayser-Fleischer rings. CONCLUSION: Wilson disease occurs when a defective copper-transporting enzyme in the liver results in toxic copper accumulation in multiple organs. Because of the insidious nature of the disease, patients may not seek medical attention until severe irreversible damage has occurred. By diagnosis of Kayser-Fleischer rings, ophthalmologists may play a critical role in the early recognition and proper evaluation of such patients.
Glucocorticoid Resistance in Humans and Nonhuman Primates

Abstract In humans, the syndrome of cortisol resistance is characterized by the absence of signs and symptoms of Cushing9s syndrome, elevated total and unbound plasma cortisol concentrations, and increases in urinary free cortisol excretion and plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone. In one family, a severely affected member had hypertension and hypokalemic alkalosis associated with increased plasma concentrations of corticosterone and deoxycorticosterone. These patients are resistant to suppression of the pituitary-adrenal axis by dexamethasone. Dexamethasone therapy, however, effectively corrected hypertension and hypokalemic alkalosis in the severely affected patient, without causing signs of glucocorticoid excess. The glucocorticoid receptor from these patients has a low affinity for glucocorticoids and is unstable during thermal activation. Both the molecular weight of the glucocorticoid receptor and the size of the corresponding mRNA are similar to those of normal controls. Transformation of B-lymphocytes with Epstein-Barr virus leads to induction of glucocorticoid receptors. Receptor induction, however, is lower in patient cells than those obtained from normal controls. This decreased induction parallels decreased expression of glucocorticoid receptor mRNA. Thus, in this form of glucocorticoid resistance the glucocorticoid receptor is abnormal and leads to diminished target organ responsiveness. Many New World primates exhibit glucocorticoid “resistance,” without apparent pathology. These species have markedly elevated plasma cortisol, both total and unbound concentrations, increased urinary free cortisol excretion, and marked increases in plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone and β-endorphin. The glucocorticoid receptors of these primates have decreased affinity for glucocorticoids, are thermolabile, and are not induced by Epstein-Barr virus transformation as indicated by specific binding and mRNA expression. Both the molecular weight of the glucocorticoid receptor and the size of the corresponding mRNA are similar to those of normal controls. Despite the high plasma cortisol concentrations in these primates, there is no sodium retention and aldosterone levels are actually increased. The kidney aldosterone receptor cross-reacts poorly with cortisol, explaining the absence of sodium retention. New World primates also have progesterone, estrogen, aldosterone, and vitamin D insensitivity, suggesting a common factor linking steroid hormone receptors.
The Strategic Equilibrium in an Oligopoly Market with Indivisibility

We study the strategic behavior in OMI or oligopoly markets with indivisibility like markets for superstars and satellites. In such markets, a firm chooses a set of agents and a vector of rebates to the agents. An SE (strategic equilibrium) is reached if no firm can find a better choice (i.e., higher profits for both the firm and its agents) while assuming that other firms' choices are fixed. We establish necessary conditions as well as necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence of SE in a general OMI. We then provide complete characterizations for SE in a large class of OMI with opportunity costs.
A Pathologist’s Approach to Nonimmune Hydrops

Fetal hydrops is an uncommon, but frequently-lethal, complication of pregnancy. Hydrops can result from any of diverse etiologies, although it has classically been divided into immune and nonimmune hydrops. While the etiology for many cases can be determined prenatally, pathologists are nearly always called on to identify the underlying cause for those cases that remain unexplained at the time of delivery or termination. This brief review will be confined to nonimmune hydrops, and the discussion will particularly focus on the role of the pathologist in evaluating this condition.
Dysbiosis in gastrointestinal disorders

The recent development of advanced sequencing techniques has revealed the complexity and diverse functions of the gut microbiota. Furthermore, alterations in the composition or balance of the intestinal microbiota, or dysbiosis, are associated with many gastrointestinal diseases. The looming question is whether dysbiosis is a cause or effect of these diseases. In this review, we will evaluate the contribution of intestinal microbiota in obesity, fatty liver, inflammatory bowel disease, and irritable bowel syndrome. Promising results from microbiota or metabolite transfer experiments in animals suggest the microbiota may be sufficient to reproduce disease features in the appropriate host in certain disorders. Less compelling causal associations may reflect complex, multi-factorial disease pathogenesis, in which dysbiosis is a necessary condition. Understanding the contributions of the microbiota in GI diseases should offer novel insight into disease pathophysiology and deliver new treatment strategies such as therapeutic manipulation of the microbiota.
Architectural spiroligomers designed for binuclear metal complex templating

The first structurally, spectroscopically, and electronically characterized metal-spiroligomer complexes are reported. The binuclear [M2L2](4+) ions (M = Mn, Zn) are macrocyclic "squares" and are characterized by X-ray diffraction, (1)H and (13)C NMR, electronic absorption, emission, and mass spectroscopies. The manganese complex contains two spin-independent Mn(II) ions and is additionally characterized using EPR and CD spectroscopies and CV.
Modeling-Aided Scale-Up of High-Shear Rotor–Stator Wet Milling for Pharmaceutical Applications

This work describes a modeling-aided approach to scale-up high-shear rotor–stator wet milling processes for pharmaceutical applications. A population balance equation was used that applies known br...
ED-32OUTCOMES OF PEDIATRIC BRAINSTEM LOW GRADE GLIOMAS: A SINGLE INSTITUTION SERIES

BACKGROUND: Brainstem tumors constitute 10% of primary CNS tumor of children; 80% are malignant pontine gliomas, but 20% are low grade gliomas (LGG) with a more indolent course. Since advances in imaging & neurosurgical techniques, surgical resection is the initial treatment of choice for some of these tumors. However, optimal therapy for those which are incompletely resected or which relapse after surgery is uncertain. METHODS: We reviewed the clinical characteristics, therapy and outcomes of all children with non-tectal brainstem LGGs treated with surgical resection, chemotherapy (CT-carboplatin/VCR or thioguanine/procarbazine/CCNU/VCR), or radiation therapy (RT), at the University of Michigan Mott Children's Hospital over a 20 year period (1993-2013). RESULTS: Median age at diagnosis was 6 years; Histopathologic diagnosis was confirmed in 23/25 tumors; 61% were pilocytic astrocytoma, most often in cervicomedullary brainstem. Twenty one patients underwent initial tumor resection (11 GTR/NTR, 6 STR, 4 PR); 14 of these received no other therapy; 7 received adjuvant therapy (3-CT, 2-RT, 2 CT + RT) after surgery; 6 initially-resected tumors received CT at the time of local tumor relapse, to which all had partial or complete radiographic responses. Among 4 patients who underwent no initial surgical resection, 3 received RT at diagnosis, and 1 has stable disease, untreated for 2 years. All 25 patients are alive in remission with either stable disease or no evidence of disease, at a median follow-up of 12 years. Ten year relapse-free survival is 61 % and overall survival, 100%. DISCUSSION: This single institution retrospective study demonstrates excellent survival rates for children with brainstem LGG, with initial surgery +/- CT or RT, and effective salvage with CT. The efficacy of the well-tolerated chemotherapy in this series supports its role in the treatment of unresectable brainstem LGG, or in those which progress after initial surgical management.
Trends in Use of Little Cigars or Cigarillos and Cigarettes among U.S. Smokers, 2002–2011

Objectives:Little cigars and cigarillos may resemble cigarettes, but may be less expensive and can be purchased singly and in flavored varieties. We used two major U.S. surveys to investigate use of cigarillos and cigarettes.Methods:The 2010/2011 Tobacco Use Supplement to the Current Population Survey ascertained cigar use by brand and type (little cigars/cigarillos or large/regular). The annual National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) assessed cigar use by brand, 2002–2011. We used the available data to classify cigars by type among males in the NSDUH.Results:Estimated prevalence of little cigar use among male cigar smokers was similar using the two surveys. From 2002 to 2011, past-30-day cigarette smoking declined for all age groups and genders, but among young adult men (aged 18–25) little cigar smoking remained steady at nearly 9%. “Cigarette and/or cigar” smoking was 44% among young adult men in 2011, and was consistently 6 percentage points higher than cigarette-only smoking, from 2002 to 2011. Over 60% of male and 70% of female adolescent/young adult cigar smokers also smoked cigarettes in 2011. Most male adolescents preferred little cigars to traditional cigars. Among males, most lower income or less educated cigar smokers preferred little cigars, compared to only 16% of those with higher education.Conclusions:These patterns indicate that little cigar/cigarillo use may promote initiation and maintenance of cigarette smoking, particularly among younger and less advantaged populations. Population-level data are urgently needed to better assess type of cigar smoked and reasons for use.
Research on Secondary Arc Current of 1 000 kV Double-Circuit Transmission Lines on the Same Tower

This paper summarizes the characteristics of 1 000 kV double-circuit lines, and the relationship between secondary arc and single-phase reclosing time. And by using EMTP, it calculates and analyzes effect of various factors on secondary arc current during single-phase reclosure of the above lines. The factors include length of line, operation mode, scale of power flow, and value of small reactance on neutral point of shunt reactor. Based on results from calculation and analysis, the following can be concluded: for lines with shunt reactor compensation, when the reclosing time adopted is about 1 s, value of secondary arc current during single-phase reclosure should be less than 35 A; for UHV double-circuit lines, coupling effects of conductors under double-circuit and single-circuit operation modes are different, which makes it difficult to select a suitable value for small reactance on neutral point of shunt reactor; for lines with long length, when they are transmitting heavy power flow, it may be hard for secondary arc to self-extinguish. At present, method of line transposition with reverse-phase sequence commonly adopted cannot completely eliminate coupling between loops. Therefore the method cannot solve the problems related with secondary arc from the root.
Focused Grounding for Markov Logic Networks.

Markov logic networks have been successfully applied to many problems in AI. However, the computational complexity of the inference procedures has limited their application. Previous work in lifted inference, lazy inference and cutting plane inference has identified cases where the entire ground network need not be constructed. These approaches are specific to particular inference procedures, and apply well only to certain classes of problems. We introduce a method of focused grounding that can use either general purpose or domain specific heuristics to produce only the most relevant ground formulas. Though a solution to the focused grounding is not, in general, a solution to the complete grounding, we show empirically that the smaller search space of a focused grounding makes it easier to locate a good solution. We evaluate focused grounding on two diverse domains, joint entity resolution and abductive plan recognition. We show improved results and decreased computation cost for the entity resolution domain relative to a complete grounding. Focused grounding in abductive plan recognition produces state of the art results in a domain where complete grounding
Careers—Passing It On

Dan Dumrauf, director at Medix Scientific, understands the unique challenges of identifying leading resource talent for the clinical research industry, and is not afraid to confront obstacles head on. Hiring the right talent is one of the toughest things to do, he says, especially when the organization’s leaders or the talented prospects don’t know exactly what they are looking for.
CVD in Electronic Applications: Semiconductors

This chapter reviews the role of chemical vapor deposition (CVD) in the fabrication of semiconductors. CVD is a major process in the production of thin films of all the three categories of electronic materials: semiconductors, conductors, and insulators. The major semiconductor materials in production are silicon, germanium, III–V and II–VI compounds, silicon carbide, and diamond. Silicon is overall an excellent material. It is readily available with a high degree of purity and relatively low cost. CVD is used in silicon production in two major areas: in the production of ultra-pure silicon from which single-crystal ingots are made, and in the preparation of epitaxial and polycrystalline films. The single crystal processing includes the usage of silicon chips, which are fabricated by slicing a cylindrical ingot of single crystal silicon into thin wafers of up to 200 mm in diameter. Each wafer is then divided into approximately 100 chips. CVD plays the most important role in this process, as it is the basic method for preparation of electronic grade silicon (EGS). The single crystal ingot is obtained from the melted ESG by a crystal pulling operation.
Effect of Rising Temperatures on Growth and Survival of Clostridium perfringens Indigenous to Raw Beef 1 .

Growth and survival of Clostridium perfringens indigenous to raw beef were compared to that of a composite of eight strains of C. perfringens inoculated into raw ground beef round, beef-round strips, and beef-round cores. A constantly rising temperature rate of 6 C/h and a dynamic rising temperature rate, predetermined from long time-low temperature (LTLT) oven beef cookery processes, were used to evaluate growth and survival. Survivors of C. perfringens were observed in raw ground beef and autoclaved ground beef at temperatures between 59 and 63 C. Growth in raw ground beef was more rapid than in raw beef-round strips. Raw ground beef supported growth of the indigenous flora to a greater extent than did autoclaved ground beef inoculated with the composite. The populations in raw, domestic frozen beef rounds used in commercial cooking processes were low, ranging from < 70/g to 1000/g, and varied among lots.
Atomic Structure of the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator

The cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) is an anion channel evolved from the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter family. In this study, we determined the structure of zebrafish CFTR in the absence of ATP by electron cryo-microscopy to 3.7 A resolution. Human and zebrafish CFTR share 55% sequence identity, and 42 of the 46 cystic-fibrosis-causing missense mutational sites are identical. In CFTR, we observe a large anion conduction pathway lined by numerous positively charged residues. A single gate near the extracellular surface closes the channel. The regulatory domain, dephosphorylated, is located in the intracellular opening between the two nucleotide-binding domains (NBDs), preventing NBD dimerization and channel opening. The structure also reveals why many cystic-fibrosis-causing mutations would lead to defects either in folding, ion conduction, or gating and suggests new avenues for therapeutic intervention.
A Rejoinder on the PSW Model for SLD Identification: Still Concerned

We address Christo, D’Incau, and Ponzuric’s response to our original contribution to this journal “When theory trumps science: A critique of the PSW model for SLD identification.” Christo and colleagues stated that there is an empirical support for pattern of strengths and weaknesses (PSW) procedures as a component in the identification of specific learning disorders and raised concerns regarding our critique of the PSW model. We present further research to support our perspective and maintain that empirical data are lacking for PSW assessment in the identification of specific learning disability (SLD). School psychologists are cautioned to consider the evidence regarding the practice of PSW-related procedures.
Field scale measurement of greenhouse gas emissions from land applied swine manure

Greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) from swine production systems are relatively well researched with the exception of emissions from land application of manure. GHGs inventories are needed for process-based modeling and science-based regulations. Thus, the objective of this observational study was to measure GHG fluxes from land application of swine manure on a typical corn field. Assessment of GHG emissions from deep injected land-applied swine manure, fall and reapplication in the spring, on a typical US Midwestern corn-on-corn farm was completed. Static chambers were used for flux measurement along with gas analysis on a GC-FID-ECD. Measured gas concentrations were used to estimate GHGs flux using four different models: linear regression, nonlinear regression, first order linear regression and the revised Hutchinson and Mosier (HMR) model, respectively for comparisons. Cumulative flux estimates after manure application of 5.85 × 105 g•ha–1 (1 ha = 0.01 km2) of CO2, 6.60 × 101 g•ha–1 of CH4, and 3.48 × 103 g•ha–1 N2O for the fall trial and 3.11 × 106 g•ha–1 of CO2, 2.95 × 103 g•ha–1 of CH4, and 1.47 × 104 g•ha–1 N2O after the spring reapplication trial were observed. The N2O net cumulative flux represents 0.595% of nitrogen applied in swine manure for the fall trial.
A hybrid deconvolution approach for estimation of in vivo non-displaceable binding for brain PET targets without a reference region.

Background and aim Estimation of a PET tracer's non-displaceable distribution volume (VND) is required for quantification of specific binding to its target of interest. VND is generally assumed to be comparable brain-wide and is determined either from a reference region devoid of the target, often not available for many tracers and targets, or by imaging each subject before and after blocking the target with another molecule that has high affinity for the target, which is cumbersome and involves additional radiation exposure. Here we propose, and validate for the tracers [11C]DASB and [11C]CUMI-101, a new data-driven hybrid deconvolution approach (HYDECA) that determines VND at the individual level without requiring either a reference region or a blocking study. Methods HYDECA requires the tracer metabolite-corrected concentration curve in blood plasma and uses a singular value decomposition to estimate the impulse response function across several brain regions from measured time activity curves. HYDECA decomposes each region's impulse response function into the sum of a parametric non-displaceable component, which is a function of VND, assumed common across regions, and a nonparametric specific component. These two components differentially contribute to each impulse response function. Different regions show different contributions of the two components, and HYDECA examines data across regions to find a suitable common VND. HYDECA implementation requires determination of two tuning parameters, and we propose two strategies for objectively selecting these parameters for a given tracer: using data from blocking studies, and realistic simulations of the tracer. Using available test-retest data, we compare HYDECA estimates of VND and binding potentials to those obtained based on VND estimated using a purported reference region. Results For [11C]DASB and [11C]CUMI-101, we find that regardless of the strategy used to optimize the tuning parameters, HYDECA provides considerably less biased estimates of VND than those obtained, as is commonly done, using a non-ideal reference region. HYDECA test-retest reproducibility is comparable to that obtained using a VND determined from a non-ideal reference region, when considering the binding potentials BPP and BPND. Conclusions HYDECA can provide subject-specific estimates of VND without requiring a blocking study for tracers and targets for which a valid reference region does not exist.
Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension in Glycogen Storage Disease Type I

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a rare and highly fatal disease that has been reported in 8 patients with glycogen storage disease type I (GSDI). We describe an additional case of an acute...
Design and implementation of open-source SATA III core for Stratix V FPGAs

SATA is the de-facto standard computer interface that connects a host, typically a computing device, to a persistent storage device, such as a hard drive or solid-state drive. In order for FPGA-based designs to be able to leverage the variety of persistent storage devices, a SATA core is needed. Over time, the SATA standard has been revised to provide greater bandwidth, with SATA III being the newest version of the standard. In this paper, we are the first to present a SATA III core designed for Altera Stratix V FPGAs. Our implementation is written using Verilog, and tested using an industry-standard SATA protocol analyzer. We evaluate the performance of our SATA core by measuring the throughput of random and sequential read and write operations using various hard drives and solid-state drives. In addition, we compare the complexity of our SATA III core implementation with those of the older SATA I and II open-source implementations, and show that SATA III is still feasible, using only about 11% of Stratix V FPGA resources.
Anisotropic Metallic and Metallic Oxide Nanostructures-Correlation Between Their Shape and Properties

In this chapter, we highlight recent innovations from our laboratory by featuring uniquely shaped nanostructures and how their morphology and dimension affect their physico-chemical properties and subsequently their applications. We aim to cover a wide range of applications including optical and plasmonic applications, sensing and imaging , catalytic and photocatalytic applications, bio-medical and environmental implications as well as energy related applications.
Bony Morphology of Femoroacetabular Impingement in Young Female Dancers and Single-Sport Athletes:

Background:Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is a painful and limiting condition of the hip that is often seen in young athletes. Previous studies have reported a higher prevalence of this disorde...
Do Mycorrhizae Influence the Drought Tolerance of Citrus

The benefits of vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizal (VAM) fungi for increasing drought tolerance have been demonstrated under nutrient-limiting conditions, particularly in low phosphorus (P) soils. Horticultural plants grown in soilless media, under greenhouse fertilizer regimes, are usually non-mycorrhizal, but have optimum P and the desired size and nutritional characteristics available when transplanted. Since plant nutrition can influence responses to environmental stress, potential benefits of VAM fungi for reducing transplant stress, such as drought, should be evaluated where growth and nutrition of mycorrhizal and non-mycorrhizal plants are similar at time of outplanting. In this way, nutritional and any unique non-nutritional effects of mycorrhizae on stress tolerance of plants can be identified. Non-nutritional effects of VAM fungi on drought tolerance of woody horticultural plants have not yet been clearly demonstrated.
A Short Presentation of SLEUTH

This chapter summarizes information about SLEUTH, a popular cellular automaton model that simulates urban growth and land use change. The model is supported in the public domain and all source code is open, including extensive documentation and discussion fora. The input data for SLEUTH are listed, the model's behavior and its control parameters explained, and methods described for model calibration, use in simulation, and for validation. Pointers to review papers are given as starting points for the reader to find SLEUTH applications, and the operating system and computer requirements are given. This volume includes a paper by the author that makes a substantial improvement to SLEUTH's calibration procedures.
Towards a humanoid-oriented movement writing

This paper introduces humanoid-oriented movement writing (HOM), focusing on a notation in which body postures allow easy visual interpretation by both humans and humanoid robots. HOM Writing, derived from Sutton Movement Writing and Shorthand [1], is a natural modality for encoding the movements that humans perform during various work activities. Beyond its use as a record of human movement, the intent is to use the writing as a modality of communicating to robots what movements to execute. Humanoid robots could directly map the key postures represented in the notation to their own postures, imitating the postures captured in the description, and calculating intermediate postures by interpolation. A motion generator would ensure the motor control needed to create continuous movements. This paper focuses on the generation of the activity movement scripts, and addresses two modalities of producing the scripts: 1) ‘hand-coded’ by a human, using an editor, and 2) automatic extraction from video, e.g. from video-recordings of a human performing an activity. A software tool developed to allow easy script writing, the HOM Editor, is described and illustrated in hand-coding of a sequence of movements. The automatic generation of scripts from video is done using the pose estimation system by Yang and Ramanan [2], which takes an image and produces the joint coordinates of the limb parts; this is illustrated with a task of moving and arranging chairs. The posture extraction from a video provided by a single camera may often lead to occlusions of body parts during activities in which objects are manipulated. We show the advantages of using an additional camera, which significantly increases the correct posture estimation, and discuss how to further improve the automatic generation of scripts.
RNase If -treated quantitative PCR for dsRNA quantitation of RNAi trait in genetically modified crops.

RNA interference (RNAi) technology has been widely used to knockdown target genes via post-transcriptional silencing. In plants, RNAi is used as an effective tool with diverse applications being developed such as resistance against insects, fungi, viruses, and metabolism manipulation. To develop genetically modified (GM) RNAi traits for insect control, a transgene is created and composed of an inversely-repeated sequence of the target gene with a spacer region inserted between the repeats. The transgene design is subject to form a self-complementary hairpin RNA (hpRNA) and the active molecules are > 60 bp doubled-stranded RNA (dsRNA) derived from the hpRNA. However, in some cases, an undesirable intermediate such as single-stranded RNA (ssRNA) may be formed, which is not an active molecule. The aforementioned characteristics of RNAi traits lead to increase the challenges for RNAi-derived dsRNA quantitation. To quantify the dsRNA and distinguish it from the ssRNA in transgenic maize, an analytical tool is required to be able to effectively quantify dsRNA which contains a strong secondary structure. Herein, we develop a modified qRT-PCR method (abbreviated as RNase If -qPCR) coupled with a ssRNA preferred endonuclease (i.e., RNase If). This method enables the precise measurement of the active molecules (i.e., dsRNA) derived from RNAi traits of GM crops and separately quantifies the dsRNA from ssRNA. Notably, we also demonstrate that the RNase If -qPCR is comparable to a hybridization-based method (Quantigene Plex 2.0). To our best knowledge, this is the first report of a method combining RNase If with modified qRT-PCR protocol. The method represents a reliable analytical tool to quantify dsRNA for GM RNAi crops. It provides a cost-effective and feasible analytical tool for general molecular laboratory without using additional equipment for other methods. The RNase If -qPCR method demonstrates high sensitivity (to 0.001 pg/ μL of dsRNA), precision and accuracy. In this report, we demonstrated the deployment of this method to characterize the RNAi events carrying v-ATPase C in maize during trait development process. The method can be utilized in any application which requires the dsRNA quantification such as double-stranded RNA virus or sprayable dsRNA as herbicide.
What will Phil do next?: Spontaneously inferred traits influence predictions of behavior

Abstract Past research has shown that perceivers intentionally may make trait inferences about others and use this information to make predictions about these others' future behaviors. Other research has also shown that people can make trait inferences without intent—that is, spontaneously. However, one unexplored avenue is whether spontaneous trait inferences (STI), affect how perceivers predict others' will behavior. Three studies explored this issue. Results from Studies 1 and 2 showed that: (1) exposure to trait-implicative behaviors describing an actor influences subsequent behavior predictions made about the actor in a trait-consistent manner, and (2) predictions occurred regardless of behavior recall, implying that the behavior predictions were derived from prior trait inferences and not from behavior recall. Results from Study 3 bolstered this conclusion by showing that behavior predictions were similar regardless of whether subjects were explicitly instructed to make inferences or not, but that a manipulation known to interfere with inference generation (lie detection instructions) muted behavior predictions. Results from Study 3 also suggested that the prediction effects had both automatic and controlled components, and that reductions observed in the lie detection condition of Study 3 were caused by alterations in the automatic influence of trait knowledge to the behavior predictions. These results suggest that STI may be causal inferences about the actors' dispositions.
Lifestyle medicine competencies for primary care physicians.

Primary care physicians should be competent in lifestyle medicine, promoting, practicing, staying current on, discussing with patients, and prescribing therapeutic lifestyle changes.
present and prospective pharmacotherapies in pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a progressive disease leading to obstruction of the small pulmonary arteries. Currently, there are eight approved medications for PAH. This review article focuses on the mechanisms, clinical trials, efficacy, and safety profiles of each of the PAH medications. In addition, this review addresses combination PAH therapy, patient preference, and future therapies.
Understanding the barriers affecting psychologists' adherence to evidence-based treatment guidelines from a stakeholder standpoint

Psychologists’ adherence with evidence-based guidelines based on the biopsychosocial premise in the management of musculoskeletal injuries is influenced by the actions by General Practitioners (GPs), insurers, and injured patients’ actions. For data collection, we interviewed GPs (n = 6), insurers (n = 6), and injured people (n = 15) from the two personal injury compensation schemes in New South Wales. Thematic analysis yielded the following: GPs were reticent to access psychological services that represented a poor fit between their practice and treatment guidelines, insurers lacked trust in the validity of “secondary psychological injury” claims’. Injured peoples’ willingness to engage with treatment was impaired by a poor fit between the treatment guidelines and their experience of insurers’ and psychologists’ practices.
Development of a Li2O Sensor Based on a Yttria Stabilized Zirconia Membrane for Oxide Reduction in a Molten LiCl-Li2O Electrolyte at 650°C

LiCl-Li2O salt is a widely used electrolyte for the electrochemical reduction of spent oxide (mainly uranium oxide) fuels, and the Li2O concentration is usually controlled at about 1.41 mol % for o...
Expecting and Learning From Null Results

This commentary addresses three issues raised in the articles in this issue. First, conversations about replication efforts should begin with a reasonable and agreed-upon definition of what it mean...
Microplastic fragment and fiber contamination of beach sediments from selected sites in Virginia and North Carolina, USA.

Microplastic particles (<5 mm) constitute a growing pollution problem within coastal environments. This study investigated the microplastic presence of estuarine and barrier island beaches in the states of Virginia and North Carolina, USA. Seventeen sediment cores were collected at four study sites and initially tested for microplastic presence by pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. For the extraction, microplastic particles were first separated from the sediment using a high-density cesium chloride solution (1.88 g/mL). In a second step, an oil extraction collected the remaining microplastic particles of higher densities. Under the light microscope, the extracted microplastic particles were classified based on their morphologies into fragments and fibers. Raman microspectroscopy chemically identified a subset of microplastic particles as polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, poly(4-vinylbiphenyl), polystyrene, polyethylene, and nylon. The results show a concentration of microplastic particles (1410 ± 810 per kg of dry sediment) even in protected and ostensibly unpolluted estuarine and beach sediments of Virginia and North Carolina.
SMALL CELL CARCINOMA PRESENTING AS A MASSIVE BIATRIAL MASS WITH OBSTRUCTIVE PHYSIOLOGY DIAGNOSED BY UPPER ENDOSCOPIC ULTRASOUND GUIDED FINE NEEDLE ASPIRATION

We present a rare case of small cell carcinoma presenting as a massive biatrial mass with obstructive physiology at a high risk of hemodynamic collapse. A 31 year-old male presented with 6 weeks of shortness of breath. He was found to have a 15 centimeter neoplasm occupying both atria, obliterating
Partial Differential Equations of the Second Order

We limit the discussion of second-order partial differential equations to linear equations and two-dimensional problems. Although the character of the partial differential equations remains much the same in three dimensions, the problems are much more difficult to solve in three-dimensional space.
A meta-analysis of economic and environmental benefits of conservation agriculture in South Asia.

Abstract Agriculture plays a key role in ensuring food and livelihood security in South Asia. However, this region is vulnerable to climate change which is likely to impact the livelihoods of millions of marginal and small holders. Agriculture is not only impacted by climate change but also one of the major contributor to global warming in South Asia. As compared to the traditional practices, Conservation Agriculture (CA) practices help mitigate the impact of climate change through a reduction in carbon emission and conservation of natural resources. In this article, a meta-analysis of the important studies was done for the impact of CA on carbon sequestration, water use, greenhouse gas emissions and cost and net returns. Carbon sequestration potential was found significantly higher in the CA practices (+16.30%) as compared to the conventional tillage. Inclusion of legumes, clay-rich soils, irrigation and presence of soil cover are the major drivers for higher carbon sequestration potential in the region. Additionally, a significant amount of water was also saved as CA practices led to relatively less consumption of water over the conventional tillage. Further, the adoption of CA based management practices resulted in a substantial reduction of CO2 (−4.28%) and CH4 (−25.67%) emissions both in aerobic and anaerobic soil conditions. However, the emission of NO2 and N2O–N gases were higher under the CA, +14.45 and + 5.20% respectively. Nevertheless, the emission of N2O–N was lesser in CA (−1.78%) under aerobic conditions whereas it is increased under anaerobic soil conditions (+12.15%). The adoption of CA practices resulted in higher returns and lower costs as compared to the conventional system. Although CA has significant environmental benefits, the study suggests judicious use of inorganic inputs under CA for managing the impact of climate change in South Asia. Therefore, CA is a sustainable agricultural practice that deserves outscaling in South Asia for mitigation and adaptation of climate change.
Macronodular adrenal hyperplasia masquerading as an upper pole renal mass

Macronodular hyperplasia (MAH) of the adrenal gland is a rare disease usually presenting with Cushing Syndrome. Although usually readily apparent on imaging, an adrenal tumor in an asymptomatic patient may be mistaken for a renal tumor. We present a patient with combined macro- and micro-nodular adrenal hyperplasia masquerading as an upper pole renal mass. The patient underwent a robotic partial nephrectomy and partial adrenalectomy without complication.
Introducing the IEEE Virtual Reality 2021 Special Issue

Welcome to the 10th IEEE Transactions on Visualization and Computer Graphics (TVCG) special issue on IEEE Virtual Reality and 3D User Interfaces. This volume contains a total of 25 full papers selected for and presented at the IEEE Conference on Virtual Reality and 3D User Interfaces (IEEE VR 2021), held fully virtual from March 27 to April 3, 2021. Founded in 1993, IEEE VR has a long tradition as the premier venue where new research results in the field of Virtual Reality (VR) are presented. With the emergence of VR as a major technology in a diverse set of fields, such as entertainment, education, data analytics, artificial intelligence, medicine, construction, training, and many others, the papers presented at IEEE VR and published in the IEEE TVCG VR special issue mark a major highlight of the year.
Larval zebrafish exhibit collective motion behaviors in constrained spaces

ABSTRACT Collective behavior may be elicited or can spontaneously emerge by a combination of interactions with the physical environment and conspecifics moving within that environment. To investigate the relative contributions of these factors in a small millimeter-scale swimming organism, we observed larval zebrafish, interacting at varying densities under circular confinement. Our aim was to understand the biological and physical mechanisms acting on these larvae as they swim together inside circular confinements. If left undisturbed, larval zebrafish swim intermittently in a burst and coast manner and are socially independent at this developmental stage, before shoaling behavioral onset. We report here our analysis of a new observation for this well-studied species: in circular confinement and at sufficiently high densities, the larvae collectively circle rapidly alongside the boundary. This is a new physical example of self-organization of mesoscale living active matter driven by boundaries and environment geometry. We believe this is a step forward toward using a prominent biological model system in a new interdisciplinary context to advance knowledge of the physics of social interactions.