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The majority of existing face inpainting methods primarily focus on generating a single result that visually resembles the original image. The generation of diverse and plausible results has emerged as a new branch in image restoration, often referred to as "Pluralistic Image Completion". However, most diversity methods simply use random latent vectors to generate multiple results, leading to uncontrollable outcomes. To overcome these limitations, we introduce a novel architecture known as the Reference-Guided Directional Diverse Face Inpainting Network. In this paper, instead of using a background image as reference, which is typically used in image restoration, we have used a face image, which can have many different characteristics from the original image, including but not limited to gender and age, to serve as a reference face style. Our network firstly infers the semantic information of the masked face, i.e., the face parsing map, based on the partial image and its mask, which subsequently guides and constrains directional diverse generator network. The network will learn the distribution of face images from different domains in a low-dimensional manifold space. To validate our method, we conducted extensive experiments on the CelebAMask-HQ dataset. Our method not only produces high-quality oriented diverse results but also complements the images with the style of the reference face image. Additionally, our diverse results maintain correct facial feature distribution and sizes, rather than being random. Our network has achieved SOTA results in face diverse inpainting when writing. Code will is available at https://github.com/nothingwithyou/RDFINet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For a measure preserving Z d - or R d -action T , on a Lebesgue probability space (X , μ) , and a linear subspace L ⊆ R d , we define notions of direction L ergodicity, weak mixing, and strong mixing. For R d -actions, it is clear that these direction L properties should correspond to the same properties for the restriction of T to L. But since an arbitrary L ⊆ R d does not necessarily correspond to a nontrivial subgroup of Z d , a different approach is needed for Z d -actions. In this case, we define direction L ergodicity, weak mixing, and mixing in terms of the restriction of the unit suspension T ˜ to L , but also restricted to the subspace of L 2 (X ˜ , μ ˜) perpendicular to the suspension direction. For Z d -actions, we show (as is more or less clear for R d) that these directional properties are spectral properties. For weak mixing Z d - and R d -actions, we show that directional ergodicity is equivalent to directional weak mixing. For ergodic Z d -actions T , we explore the relationship between direction L properties as defined via unit suspensions and embeddings of T in R d -actions. Finally, the structure of possible sets of non-ergodic and non-weakly mixing directions is determined, and genericity questions are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The majority of existing face inpainting methods primarily focus on generating a single result that visually resembles the original image. The generation of diverse and plausible results has emerged as a new branch in image restoration, often referred to as “Pluralistic Image Completion”. However, most diversity methods simply use random latent vectors to generate multiple results, leading to uncontrollable outcomes. To overcome these limitations, we introduce a novel architecture known as the Reference-Guided Directional Diverse Face Inpainting Network. In this paper, instead of using a background image as reference, which is typically used in image restoration, we have used a face image, which can have many different characteristics from the original image, including but not limited to gender and age, to serve as a reference face style. Our network firstly infers the semantic information of the masked face, i.e., the face parsing map, based on the partial image and its mask, which subsequently guides and constrains directional diverse generator network. The network will learn the distribution of face images from different domains in a low-dimensional manifold space. To validate our method, we conducted extensive experiments on the CelebAMask-HQ dataset. Our method not only produces high-quality oriented diverse results but also complements the images with the style of the reference face image. Additionally, our diverse results maintain correct facial feature distribution and sizes, rather than being random. Our network has achieved SOTA results in face diverse inpainting when writing. Code will is available at https://github.com/nothingwithyou/RDFINet .

This paper introduces a new and compact structure of a directional antenna consisting of an electric dipole and a truncated connection element. This antenna is fed by a Γ shaped power line. Wide impedance bandwidth in the frequency range of 1.3 GHz to 3 GHz will be observed in the output performance of this antenna. Base radiation patterns with high main loop and low side and back loop level are other features of the introduced antenna. The antenna design process is step-by-step and parametric based on the important parameters of antenna geometry. The main feature of the antenna is the realization of circular polarization at a high percentage of implicational bandwidth. The radiation patterns of orthogonal plates E & H along with left and right circular polarization patterns for the desired antenna have been extracted and analyzed. As predicted, there are many similarities between the E and H plane pattern, which indicates the accuracy of the design process. Is. The maximum total gain of the antenna in the designed frequency band is about 10 dBi..

A semi‐spherical combined transverse electromagnetic (TEM) horn and loop antenna is designed for directional ultra‐wideband operation from 0.42 to 6 GHz for 5G and beyond 5G applications across military and commercial sectors. The antenna structure fits within a sphere with 3‐cm radius, thus operating as electrically small over the lower part of the band (ka = 0.5 at 0.795 GHz and ka = 1 at 1.59 GHz). To spread the currents across the volume while maintaining the required relationship between the lowest order TE and TM modes, the loop section is modified to conform with the enclosing minimum sphere. The TEM horn, bowtie, and resistive loading are then tuned to achieve improvement over the conventional topology in the radiation efficiency by >7% when ka = 0.5 and >22% when ka = 1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid and reliable point-of-care (POC) diagnostic tests can have a significant impact on global health. One of the most common approaches for developing POC systems is the use of target-specific biomolecules. However, the conjugation of biomolecules can result in decreased activity, which may compromise the analytical performance and accuracy of the developed systems. To overcome this challenge, we present a polymer-based cross-linking protocol for controlled and directed conjugation of biological molecules. Our protocol utilizes a bifunctional thiol-polyethylene glycol (PEG)-hydrazide polymer to enable site-directed conjugation of IgG antibodies to the surface of screen-printed metal electrodes. The metal surface of the electrodes is first modified with thiolated PEG molecules, leaving the hydrazide groups available to react with the aldehyde group in the Fc fragments of the oxidized IgG antibodies. Using anti-Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase-2 (KPC-2) antibody as a model antibody used for antimicrobial resistance (AMR) testing, our results demonstrate a ~10-fold increase in antibody coupling compared with the standard N-hydroxysuccinimide (NHS)-based conjugation chemistry and effective capture (>94%) of the target KPC-2 enzyme antigen on the surface of modified electrodes. This straightforward and easy-to-perform strategy of site-directed antibody conjugation can be engineered for coupling other protein- and non-protein-based biological molecules commonly used in POC testing and development, thus enhancing the potential for improved diagnostic accuracy and performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dayak Ngaju is one of the many Indonesian languages ​​originating from the Austronesian family. Dayak Ngaju language is used by speakers from Central Kalimantan. This study aims to determine the continuous directed verbal constructions in the Dayak Ngaju language based on a typology study and then compare it with Balinese. This type of research is descriptive qualitative. Methods of data collection using the interview method are also considered. The typological approach used as data analysis in this study is then presented through an informal method. The results of this study indicate that the Dayak Ngaju language can be formed through transitive Verba 1 (V1) + transitive Verba 2 (V2) and intransitive Verba 1 (V1) + intransitive Verba 2 (V2) patterns. If related to the Talmy typology, the results of the study show that Dayak Ngaju is a language that has a verb or satellite framework, which is different from Balinese which may be formed based on motion verbs (as core verbs) and followed by prepositional phrases (roads) which act as addition.

In this paper, several types of microstrip couplers are investigated in terms of structure, performance, and design methods. These planar 4-ports passive devices transmit a signal through two different channels. Designers' competition has always been in miniaturizing and improving performance of couplers. Proposing a novel structure is an advantage of some previously reported couplers. A high-performance coupler should have high isolation and low losses at both channels. The common port return loss in the pass band should have a low value. Among the couplers, those with balanced amplitude and phase are more popular. The popular mathematical analysis methods are even/odd mode analysis, extracting the information from the ABCD matrix and analyzing the equivalent LC circuit of a simple resonator. According to the phase shift value, couplers are classified as 90° and correct multiples of 90°, where a microstrip 0° coupler can be used as a power divider. Some couplers have filtering and harmonic elimination features that are superior to other couplers. However, few designers paid attention to suppressing the harmonics. If the operating frequency is set in according to the type of application, the coupler becomes particularly valuable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the path planning problem of UAV flight error correction is studied, and a mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) model is proposed to solve the resource constrained shortest path problem (RCSPP-R) with reinitialization, and its resource accumulation can be reinitialized to zero at the reset node. Since RCSPP-R is a NP-hard problem, Pulse algorithm is used to solve the proposed model. Aiming at the high computational cost of pulse algorithm, three pruning strategies are proposed to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the algorithm, namely, preprocessing strategy based on direction constraint to reduce the search space, dynamic relaxation strategy to improve the quality of boundary, and heuristic search strategy to optimize the node expansion sequence. Then the time-consuming of the algorithm and the number of dominant solutions are used as evaluation indexes for comparison. Numerical results show that the proposed algorithm can deal with this problem more reliably. Specifically, compared with the Label Correction algorithm, the original Pulse algorithm and the Ant Colony algorithm, there are advantages in the number of superior solutions, and compared with the above three algorithms, the time consumption is reduced by 31.64%, 88.52% and 83.5% respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The confused‐prism[5]arene macrocycle (c‐PrS[5]Me) shows conformational adaptive behavior in the presence of ammonium guests. Upon guest inclusion, the 1,4‐bridged naphthalene flap reverses its planar chirality from pS to pR (with reference to the pS(pR)4 enantiomer). Stereoselective directional threading is also observed in the presence of directional axles, in which up/down stereoisomers of homochiral (pR)5‐c‐PrS[5]Me pseudorotaxanes are formed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, several types of microstrip couplers are investigated in terms of structure, performance and design methods. These planar 4-ports passive devices transmit a signal through two different channels. Designers' competition has always been in miniaturizing and improving performance of couplers. Some couplers have been offered with a novel structure, which is a special feature. A high-performance coupler should have high isolation and low losses at both channels. The channels are usually overlapped so that the common port return loss in these channels should be low. Among the couplers, those with balanced amplitude and phase are more popular. The popular mathematical analysis methods are even/odd mode analysis, extracting the information from the ABCD matrix and analyzing the equivalent LC circuit of a simple resonator. According to the phase shift value, couplers are classified as 90º and correct multiples of 90º, where a microstrip 0º coupler can be used as a power divider. Some couplers have filtering and harmonic elimination features that are superior to other couplers. However, few designers paid attention to suppressing the harmonics. If the operating frequency is set in according to the type of application, the coupler becomes particularly valuable.ABCD Matrix

Copyright of Croatian & Comparative Public Administration is the property of Institut za Javnu Upravu and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Here we describe therapeutic results in a female patient who underwent bilateral slMFB DBS for OCD. During a 35-month long course of stimulation, she suffered from stimulation-induced dyskinesia of her right leg which we interpreted as co-stimulation of the adjacent anteromedial subthalamic nucleus (amSTN). After reprogramming to steer the stimulation away from the amSTN medial into the direction of the mesencephalic ventral tegmentum (MVT which contains the ventral tegmental area, VTA), the dyskinesias disappeared. Remarkably, anti-OCD efficacy in the presented patient was preserved and achieved with a bilateral stimulation which by our imaging study fully avoided the amSTN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A key step in the realisation of DC microgrids is the development of robust protection schemes. Bidirectional power flow in ring-type configurations makes protection design too complicated. This paper presents an algorithm for selective fault location and isolation of faulty parts in the transient stage itself. At the onset of a fault, the proposed scheme computes incremental transient power ( Δ P ) from initial changes in voltage and current. The sign of Δ P captured by different IEDs is compared to determine the fault location. Though the scheme is designed for the unit protection of feeders, it is also capable of locating and isolating external faults accurately. A backup scheme using local measurements is provided, in case of communication failure. The schemes are simulated using extensive simulations in MATLAB/SIMULINK platform. The results confirm that the proposed protection design operates within a few milliseconds and is highly selective and stable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: BOLD signals in the gray matter (GM) and white matter (WM) are tightly coupled. However, our understanding of the cross-tissue functional network in Alzheimer's disease (AD) is limited.Objective: We investigated the changes of cross-tissue functional connectivity (FC) metrics for the GM regions susceptible to AD damage.Methods: For each GM region in the default mode (DMN) and limbic networks, we obtained its low-order static FC with any WM region, and the high-order static FC between any two WM regions based on their FC pattern similarity with multiple GM regions. The dynamic and directional properties of cross-tissue FC were then acquired, specifically for the regional pairs whose low- or high-order static FCs showed significant differences between AD and normal control (NC). Moreover, these cross-tissue FC metrics were correlated with voxel-based GM volumes and MMSE in all participants.Results: Compared to NC, AD patients showed decreased low-order static FCs between the intra-hemispheric GM-WM pairs (right ITG-right fornix; left MoFG-left posterior corona radiata), and increased low-order static, dynamic, and directional FCs between the inter-hemispheric GM-WM pairs (right MTG-left superior/posterior corona radiata). The high-order static and directional FCs between the left cingulate bundle-left tapetum were increased in AD, based on their FCs with the GMs of DMN. Those decreased and increased cross-tissue FC metrics in AD had opposite correlations with memory-related GM volumes and MMSE (positive for the decreased and negative for the increased).Conclusion: Cross-tissue FC metrics showed opposite changes in AD, possibly as useful neuroimaging biomarkers to reflect neurodegenerative and compensatory mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An electrically switchable privacy display technology using proprietary optical stacks developed by the authors has now shipped in more than 1 million laptop PCs, delivering best‐in‐class protection from off‐axis visual hackers and high image visibility to display users. In parallel the authors have been developing a new generation of switchable automotive front‐seat Passenger Infotainment Displays (PID). Differences between the user needs for PID and laptop are discussed. Presented is a method to quantify 'No Driver Distraction' (NDD) in PID and image security to visual hackers in laptops, including a means of determining the limits of NDD/security. Proprietary optical stack structures for PID and laptop are compared. A PID technology demonstrator achieves less than 1% of head‐on luminance for a driver offset by just 25° from a passenger, and a shipping laptop provides no image visibility at >45° at 1lux/nit using a switchable reflectivity optical stack with total screen thickness of less than 2.3mm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Space is categorized and expressed in Lisu in all areas of structure, both nominal and verbal. Within the nominal system, there is a complex deictic system which differs between dialects and which has distinct fused locative forms, as well as a large set of spatial frame nominals, some derived from body parts, as well as directional suffixes and a spatial marker suffix; the ways in which these suffixes combine with nouns and noun stems differ slightly between dialects. There are also some general nouns for location in space and a spatial numeral classifier. Some of these nominal spatial forms are metaphorically extended to temporal, comparative and more lexicalized uses. Within the verbal system, directions of motion and types of location are expressed by lexically distinct verbs. As in most Ngwi languages related to Lisu, there is a morphosyntactically distinct set of dimensional extent stative verbs expressing spatial extension as well as temporal extent. There is also a set of posthead directional serial verbs. Finally, there are spatial adverbial forms productively based on the dimensional extent verbs.

This review aims to explore the HawkOne atherectomy (Medtronic), a single use directional atherectomy device, explaining in depth its indication, selection, preparation and application. It further provides techniques and tips to troubleshoot the device upon its use. Further, a review of the current evidence for directional atherectomy in the infra-inguinal arteries is conducted. Identifying that directional atherectomy in the infra-inguinal arteries allow for significant plaque modification and lumen gain without the use of barotrauma from balloon angioplasty. Highlighting that directional atherectomy had a lower incidence of flow limiting dissections and need for stenting after such treatment.

Sampling-based path planning algorithms are popularly used in autonomous mobile robot navigation applications. Optimal Rapidly exploring Random Trees (RRT*) is one of the well-known sampling-based single-query path planning algorithms and it is asymptotically optimal, but its convergence is slow. To address the slow convergence problem of the RRT* algorithm, this paper proposes a directional RRT* algorithm called D-RRT*. The key idea of D-RRT* is to reduce the sampling space. This is achieved in this proposed work by focusing on the direction of the goal from the starting configuration through a simple elliptical heuristic formed between them. The proposed methodology is validated in two different cluttered 2D environments and compared with existing algorithms. The proposed D-RRT* path planning algorithm outperforms the RRT* in three performance measures: the initial cost solution, convergence time, and the number of nodes visited. The convergence rate of the proposed D-RRT* is improved over RRT* by 8.5% and 14.7% in the two cluttered environments considered. Also, the proposed D-RRT* algorithm is validated in a real-time environment using the TurtleBot3 robot. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Acta Agriculturae Zhejiangensis is the property of Acta Agriculturae Zhejiangensis Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This paper investigates "directionals" or geocentric spatial terms in Lamaholot, examining the interaction between directionals, topographic environment, and cultural construals of landscape. Lamaholot is an Austronesian language of eastern Indonesia spoken on the volcanic island of Flores. The Lewotobi dialect, with which this paper is concerned, is spoken on the coastal area between Mt. Lewotobi and the Solor Sea. Reflective of this topographic environment, this language has "directionals" or grammatical terms defined with respect to landmarks: rae 'mountainward', lau 'seaward', wəli 'parallel with the coast', teti 'upward', and lali 'downward'. After describing how the spatial orientation represented by directionals is embedded in linguistic and sociocultural practices in Lamaholot-speaking communities, this paper shows that directionals exhibit intriguing diversity in interpretation and morphosyntax: they constitute a coordinate system for geocentric frame of reference, refer to different directions depending on different construals of landscape, and can appear in various syntactic positions. It is argued that this diversity can be understood in terms of a complex interplay of topographic environment, sociocultural practices, language uses, and linguistic repertoire, as assumed in the Sociotopographic Model (Palmer, Bill, Jonathon Lum, Jonathan Schlossberg & Alice Gaby. 2017. How does the environment shape spatial language? Evidence for sociotopography. Linguistic Typology 21(3). 457–491). Thus, the directional system in Lamaholot makes a strong case for a sociotopographic approach to spatial language. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the impact of mechanical oscillation on a hydraulic directional control valve. Particular attention was paid to the oscillating movement of the spool of the hydraulic directional control valve resulting from this impact. Different models of fluid and mixed friction were considered. The models analysed accounted for the relative movement of the directional control valve body and the fact that it is kinematically excited by external mechanical oscillations. It was observed that the mixed friction model, where the frictional force is considered to be the sum of molecular forces acting in micro-areas of contact and drag forces in the fluid, was the best for describing the movement of the spool for a specific spool oscillation frequency. This model yielded significantly more consistency between the simulated and experimental results than the classic fluid friction model.

Inverter-based resources respond differently than synchronous generation sources during power system faults, challenging line protection reliability. Part I of this paper presented cases that challenge line protection schemes. In this paper (Part II), we provide solutions that can be applied to gain a substantial improvement in reliability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inverter-based resources respond differently than synchronous generation sources during power system faults, challenging line protection reliability. To understand the reliability challenges, Sandia National Laboratories and North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) led a collaborative study with four inverter manufacturers (mix of Type 3 Wind, Type 4 Wind, and PV Solar) and two North American protective relay manufacturers. As part of this study, an electromagnetic transients program (EMTP) with “real-code” models representing inverter firmware was used to investigate the protective relay response to faults on the modeled power system with the different inverter types. The currents and voltages obtained from the study were then played back through line relay hardware with settings typical of systems with conventional generation. The protective relays exhibited the expected reliability challenges but provided insight into the behavior of inverter-based resources during power system faults. In this paper, we share some of the challenging cases with the responses of the different line protection schemes. Using insight from the various event records, Part II of this paper shows how relay settings can be modified to obtain a substantial improvement in reliability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A one-eighth spherical surface dielectric resonator antenna (OESS-DRA) is proposed first time. To analyze this thin shell structure, electromagnetic fields distribution is discussed by using the Hertz vector and boundary conditions. We simplify the solution of Maxwell equations by using Hertz vector because the polarization current is primary in the OESS-DRA. The Hertz vector can be expressed the current better. This proposed antenna is composed of one-eighth spherical dielectric shell fed by coaxial probe; and the ground with metal-corner-reflector makes the antenna with high gain and directional radiation properties. To verify this design, a fabricated sample is tested; results show the antenna covering bandwidth 4.56-6.88GHz, a high gain greater than 9.5dBi (peak gain 11.8dBi at 5.0GHz), and a high radiation efficiency over 85% in the entire working frequency band, as well. The OESS-DRA can be a good candidate in 5th generation communication applications.

In order to solve the problem of redundant time slot allocation for single node sectors, too large overhead and excessively long time spent for beamforming training under mobile scenarios in existing directional MAC protocols, this paper proposes high slot utilization rate and fast directional MAC protocol(HUFD-MAC) for Terahertz wireless personal area networks. The HUFD-MAC protocol uses redundant single node sectors to transmit downlink data and reduces the number of transmitted beam training frames based on time information. This effectively improves the utilization of time slots, reduces network overhead, and decreases the time required for beamforming. The simulation results show that compared with the IEEE 802.15.3c and ACAP-MAC protocols, the network overhead of HUFD-MAC is reduced by about 3.23%, and the MAC layer throughput is increased by about 8.50%.

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) has become an integral component of Parkinson disease treatment. Programming a DBS device is a time‐consuming process and requires a highly trained specialist to obtain optimal results. During the last few years, we have witnessed a rapid technological advance of DBS systems, making the programming process even more complex and emphasizing the need for a structured approach. In this manuscript and the attached videos, we will demonstrate a step‐by‐step programming approach for DBS targeting the subthalamus and the globus pallidus pars Interna. In doing so we will show the main features and differences of the three main systems available on the market, including the newest ones able to record braingenerated local field potentials for clinical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In spite of continuous improvements of ocean wave models in the last decades, large errors still remain in particular under strongly forced conditions, often encountered in the Southern Ocean, where strong westerly winds generate some of the fiercest waves on Earth in almost unlimited fetch conditions. The newly launched China‐France Oceanography SATellite (CFOSAT) provides directional spectra of ocean waves for both wind seas and swells. Compared to Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), it can resolve shorter wavelengths in all directions, which dominate in non‐fully developed wind waves. Here, the assimilation of these CFOSAT wavenumber components is proved to bring more accurate predictions of wave growth compared to the assimilation of significant wave height alone. A notable reduction of model bias is found in the Southern Ocean, especially in the Pacific Ocean sector. Results further exhibit a downward shift of the wave age, consistent with theoretical wave growth curves. Plain Language Summary: This work focuses on the importance of using directional wave observations to improve model wave prediction in the Southern Ocean. The results indicate a significant impact on the transition from a wind‐dependent sea to a well‐developed sea. A direct consequence of this work will concern a better understanding of the wave climate in the Southern Ocean and therefore, an improvement of coupled ocean/waves/atmosphere systems. Key Points: The assimilation of directional wavenumber components in the wave model MFWAM induces a significant reduction of Significant Wave Height (SWH) bias in the Southern OceanData assimilation reveals the improvement of the energy transfer of wind waves during the wave growth phase under unlimited fetch conditions in the Pacific sector of the Southern OceanThe wave age and dominant wavenumber can significantly be corrected by assimilating directional observations of Surface Wave Investigation Measurements, compared with assimilation of SWH‐nadir only [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[FeFe]-hydrogenases catalyze the reversible oxidation of H 2 from electrons and protons at an organometallic active site cofactor named the H-cluster. In addition to the H-cluster, most [FeFe]-hydrogenases possess accessory FeS cluster (F-cluster) relays that function in mediating electron transfer with catalysis. There is significant variation in the structural properties of F-cluster relays among the [FeFe]-hydrogenases; however, it is unknown how this variation relates to the electronic and thermodynamic properties, and thus the electron transfer properties, of enzymes. Clostridium pasteurianum [FeFe]-hydrogenase II (CpII) exhibits a large catalytic bias for H 2 oxidation (compared to H 2 production), making it a notable system for examining if F-cluster properties contribute to the overall function and efficiency of the enzyme. By applying a combination of multifrequency and potentiometric electron paramagnetic resonance, we resolved two electron paramagnetic resonance signals with distinct power- and temperature-dependent properties at g = 2.058 1.931 1.891 (F 2.058 ) and g = 2.061 1.920 1.887 (F 2.061 ), with assigned midpoint potentials of -140 ± 18 mV and -406 ± 12 mV versus normal hydrogen electrode, respectively. Spectral analysis revealed features consistent with spin-spin coupling between the two [4Fe-4S] F-clusters, and possible functional models are discussed that account for the contribution of coupling to the electron transfer landscape. The results signify the interplay of electronic coupling and free energy properties and parameters of the FeS clusters to the electron transfer mechanism through the relay and provide new insight as to how relays functionally complement the catalytic directionality of active sites to achieve highly efficient catalysis., Competing Interests: Conflict of interest The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest with the contents of this article., (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To study the effect of directional deep brain stimulation (DBS) electrode configuration and vertical electrode spacing on the volume of tissue activated (VTA) in the globus pallidus, pars interna (GPi).Background: Directional DBS leads may allow clinicians to precisely direct current fields to different functional networks within traditionally targeted brain areas. Modeling the shape and size of the VTA for various monopolar or bipolar configurations can inform clinical programming strategies for GPi DBS. However, many computational models of VTA are limited by assuming tissue homogeneity.Methods: We generated a multimodal image-based detailed anatomical (MIDA) computational model with a directional DBS lead (1.5 mm or 0.5 mm vertical electrode spacing) placed with segmented contact 2 at the ventral posterolateral “sensorimotor” region of the GPi. The effect of tissue heterogeneity was examined by replacing the MIDA tissues with a homogeneous tissue of conductance 0.3 S/m. DBS pulses (amplitude: 1 mA, pulse width: 60 μs, frequency: 130 Hz) were used to produce VTAs. The following DBS contact configurations were tested: single-segment monopole (2B-/Case+), two-segment monopole (2A-/2B-/Case+ and 2B-/3B-/Case+), ring monopole (2A-/2B-/2C-/Case+), one-cathode three-anode bipole (2B-/3A+/3B+/3C+), three-cathode three-anode bipole (2A-/2B-/2C-/3A+/3B+/3C+). Additionally, certain vertical configurations were repeated with 2 mA current amplitude.Results: Using a heterogeneous tissue model affected both the size and shape of the VTA in GPi. Electrodes with both 0.5 mm and 1.5 mm vertical spacing (1 mA) modeling showed that the single segment monopolar VTA was entirely contained within the GPi when the active electrode is placed at the posterolateral “sensorimotor” GPi. Two segments in a same ring and ring settings, however, produced VTAs outside of the GPi border that spread into adjacent white matter pathways, e.g., optic tract and internal capsule. Both stacked monopolar settings and vertical bipolar settings allowed activation of structures dorsal to the GPi in addition to the GPi. Modeling of the stacked monopolar settings with the DBS lead with 0.5 mm vertical electrode spacing further restricted VTAs within the GPi, but the VTA volumes were smaller compared to the equivalent settings of 1.5 mm spacing.

Rotary steering systems are cutting-edge, intelligent oil drilling and steering equipment developed at the end of the twentieth century. The core function of the bit pointing rotary steering system is to control the eccentric shaft with bit pointing function to track the outer drill collar for reverse rotation [1]. When the relative speed thereof is offset, the mandrel tool face remains stationary, and the directive function of the drill bit is realized [2]. Therefore, it is important to precisely control mandrel rotational speed and make it follow the outer drill collar to conduct face-to-face rotation at all times. A double closed loop control method for realizing rotational speed loop and position loop through controlling mandrel rotational speed is proposed in this paper. Relative rotational speed of drill bit shaft (or mandrel) and drill collar of zero can be realized within the shortest time, thereby realizing rapid and precise rotational speed tracking. Relative positions of mandrel and drill collar at several angles on 360° circumferences, thereby proving the feasibility of the method. The method can provide a technical reference and basis for prototype production of directional rotary steering system [3].

Background: Globus pallidus internus (GPi) deep brain stimulation (DBS) and thalamotomy are interventions for writer's cramp (WC). Ventralis intermedius nucleus (VIM) DBS is targeted for tremor, however, many aspects of VIM DBS remained underexplored in WC. Case Report: A 62-year-old man with WC underwent DBS. Dystonic tremor improved intraoperatively with ventralis oralis anterior (VoA)/ventral oralis posterior (VoP) and with subthalamic nucleus stimulation; although greatest benefit was obtained with VIM stimulation. Sustained benefit with VIM DBS at ten months post-operative was obtained. Discussion: This case demonstrates an intraoperative approach in target selection and supports benefits of VIM DBS for WC. Highlights: This case highlights the intraoperative approach and clinical effects of VIM DBS in the treatment of medically refractory writer's cramp (WC). We contextualize our results from this case with previous reports of VoA/VoP stimulation for WC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation (STN‐DBS) is a widely used treatment for Parkinsonʼs disease (PD) patients with motor complications, but can result in adverse effects (AEs) in a significant proportion of treated patients. The use of novel programming features including short pulse width (PW) and directional steering in alleviating stimulation‐induced AEs has not been explored. Objective: To determine if programming with short PW, directional steering, or the combination of these novel techniques can improve stimulation‐induced dysarthria, dyskinesia, and pyramidal AEs. Methods: Thirty‐two consecutive PD patients who experienced reversible AEs of STN‐DBS had optimization of their settings using either short PW, directional steering, or the combination, while ensuring equivalent control of motor symptoms. Pairwise comparisons of pre‐ and post‐optimization adverse effect ratings were made. Patients were left on the alternative setting with the greatest benefit and followed up at 6 months. Modeling of volume of tissue activated (VTA) and charge per pulse (Qp) calculations were used to explore potential underlying mechanisms of any differences found. Results: There were significant improvements in stimulation‐induced dysarthria, dyskinesia, and pyramidal side effects after optimization. At 6 months, mean AE ratings remained significantly improved compared to pre‐optimization ratings. Different patterns of shift in VTA for each AE, and Qp could be used to explain improvements using novel techniques. Conclusions: Stimulation‐induced dysarthria, dyskinesia, and pyramidal AEs induced by STN‐DBS can be improved by using novel programming techniques. These represent additional tools to conventional methods that can be used to address these AEs. © 2020 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To study the effect of directional deep brain stimulation (DBS) electrode configuration and vertical electrode spacing on the volume of tissue activated (VTA) in the globus pallidus, pars interna (GPi). Background: Directional DBS leads may allow clinicians to precisely direct current fields to different functional networks within traditionally targeted brain areas. Modeling the shape and size of the VTA for various monopolar or bipolar configurations can inform clinical programming strategies for GPi DBS. However, many computational models of VTA are limited by assuming tissue homogeneity. Methods: We generated a multimodal image-based detailed anatomical (MIDA) computational model with a directional DBS lead (1.5 mm or 0.5 mm vertical electrode spacing) placed with segmented contact 2 at the ventral posterolateral "sensorimotor" region of the GPi. The effect of tissue heterogeneity was examined by replacing the MIDA tissues with a homogeneous tissue of conductance 0.3 S/m. DBS pulses (amplitude: 1 mA, pulse width: 60 μs, frequency: 130 Hz) were used to produce VTAs. The following DBS contact configurations were tested: single-segment monopole (2B-/Case+), two-segment monopole (2A-/2B-/Case+ and 2B-/3B-/Case+), ring monopole (2A-/2B-/2C-/Case+), one-cathode three-anode bipole (2B-/3A+/3B+/3C+), three-cathode three-anode bipole (2A-/2B-/2C-/3A+/3B+/3C+). Additionally, certain vertical configurations were repeated with 2 mA current amplitude. Results: Using a heterogeneous tissue model affected both the size and shape of the VTA in GPi. Electrodes with both 0.5 mm and 1.5 mm vertical spacing (1 mA) modeling showed that the single segment monopolar VTA was entirely contained within the GPi when the active electrode is placed at the posterolateral "sensorimotor" GPi. Two segments in a same ring and ring settings, however, produced VTAs outside of the GPi border that spread into adjacent white matter pathways, e.g., optic tract and internal capsule. Both stacked monopolar settings and vertical bipolar settings allowed activation of structures dorsal to the GPi in addition to the GPi. Modeling of the stacked monopolar settings with the DBS lead with 0.5 mm vertical electrode spacing further restricted VTAs within the GPi, but the VTA volumes were smaller compared to the equivalent settings of 1.5 mm spacing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Despite improvements in cochlear implant (CI) technology, pediatric CI recipients continue to have more difficulty understanding speech than their typically hearing peers in background noise. A variety of strategies have been evaluated to help mitigate this disparity, such as signal processing, remote microphone technology, and microphone placement. Previous studies regarding microphone placement used speech processors that are now dated, and most studies investigating the improvement of speech recognition in background noise included adult listeners only. Purpose The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of microphone location and beamforming technology on speech understanding for pediatric CI recipients in noise. Research Design A prospective, repeated-measures, within-participant design was used to compare performance across listening conditions. Study Sample A total of nine children (aged 6.6 to 15.3 years) with at least one Advanced Bionics CI were recruited for this study. Data Collection and Analysis The Basic English Lexicon Sentences and AzBio Sentences were presented at 0o azimuth at 65-dB SPL in +5 signal-to-noise ratio noise presented from seven speakers using the R-SPACE system (Advanced Bionics, Valencia, CA). Performance was compared across three omnidirectional microphone configurations (processor microphone, T-Mic 2, and processor + T-Mic 2) and two directional microphone configurations (UltraZoom and auto UltraZoom). The two youngest participants were not tested in the directional microphone configurations. Results No significant differences were found between the various omnidirectional microphone configurations. UltraZoom provided significant benefit over all omnidirectional microphone configurations (T-Mic 2, p = 0.004, processor microphone, p < 0.001, and processor microphone + T-Mic 2, p = 0.018) but was not significantly different from auto UltraZoom (p = 0.176). Conclusions All omnidirectional microphone configurations yielded similar performance, suggesting that a child's listening performance in noise will not be compromised by choosing the microphone configuration best suited for the child. UltraZoom (adaptive beamformer) yielded higher performance than all omnidirectional microphones in moderate background noise for adolescents aged 9 to 15 years. The implications of these data suggest that for older children who are able to reliably use manual controls, UltraZoom will yield significantly higher performance in background noise when the target is in front of the listener. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Directionality can be seen in many stationary time series from various disciplines, but it is overlooked when fitting linear models with Gaussian errors. Moreover, we cannot rely on distinguishing directionality by comparing a plot of a time series in time order with a plot in reverse time order. In general, a statistical measure is required to detect and quantify directionality. There are several quite different qualitative forms of directionality, and we distinguish: rapid rises followed by slow recessions; rapid increases and rapid decreases from the mean followed by slow recovery toward the mean; directionality above or below some threshold; and intermittent directionality. The first objective is to develop a suite of statistical measures that will detect directionality and help classify its nature. The second objective is to demonstrate the potential benefits of detecting directionality. We consider applications from business, environmental science, finance, and medicine. Time series data are collected from many processes, both natural and anthropogenic, by a wide range of organizations, and directionality can easily be monitored as part of routine analysis. We suggest that doing so may provide new insights to the processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]