cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Diffraction from a small square aperture:approximate aperture fields

An approximate solution is presented that represents the first three terms in a more general expansion for the aperture electric field in a single, small square aperture (2a × 2a, ka ≪ 1) in a thin, perfectly conducting plane screen illuminated by a normally incident, linear polarized plane wave. The solution is motivated by physical intuition and the solutions for circular apertures and slits.Copson’s integrodifferential equation formulation [ Proc. R. Soc. London Ser. A202, 277 ( 1950)] of the boundary-value problem applied to small apertures is used to investigate the validity of the solution. Numerical calculations show that the solution for the dominant component of the electric field is valid over most of the aperture; its validity is in doubt in the close vicinity of the corners of the aperture. Higher-order terms are needed to describe the field accurately in this region.
Usefulness of Urinary Immune Biomarkers in the Evaluation of Neonatal Sepsis A Pilot Project

Objective. Our hypothesis is that specific proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory urinary cytokines are useful in the diagnostic evaluation of risk for sepsis in term neonates. We conducted a pilot, prospective hospital-based longitudinal observational study to test the urine of term neonates with a 13 biomarker panel of cytokines. Methods. Infants were divided into 2 groups: The control group (n = 15) consisted of infants admitted to newborn nursery, and the test group (n = 15) consisted of infants admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit for presumed sepsis. Bagged urine samples were collected from 30 term neonates for testing our hypothesis. Results. Urinary interleukin (IL)-8 (P = .004*), inducible protein (IP)-10 (P = .007*), and monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1 (P = .02) were significantly increased in the test group compared with the control group. Conclusions. Urinary IL-8, IP-10, and MCP-1 are proinflammatory cytokines that are increased in the neonate during an infectious inflammatory...
Land use history alters the relationship between native and exotic plants: the rich don't always get richer

Observational studies of diversity have consistently found positive correlations between native and exotic species, suggesting that the same environmental factors that drive native species richness also drive exotic species richness, i.e., “the rich get richer”. We examined patterns of native and exotic plant species richness in temperate forests that have been undergoing reforestation since the turn of the twentieth century to test the influence of disturbance arising from land-use history on this relationship. Overall, we found no relationship between native and exotic plant species richness. Instead, we found a positive relationship between native and exotic richness in older but not younger-growth forests, suggesting that the same processes that drove exotic plant richness in older forests also facilitated native plants. In contrast, younger forests had similar numbers of native species relative to older forests, but 41% more exotic species and 24% more compacted soils. Moreover, exotic but not native species richness was positively correlated with increasing soil compaction across all sites. Overall, our results suggest that elevated exotic plant invasions in younger forests are a legacy of soil disturbance arising from agricultural practices at the turn of the century, and that native and exotic plants may respond differentially to disparate environmental drivers.
Measurement of Spin–Lattice Relaxation Times and Concentrations in Systems with Chemical Exchange Using the One-Pulse Sequence: Breakdown of the Ernst Model for Partial Saturation in Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy

Abstract A fundamental problem in Fourier transform NMR spectroscopy is the calculation of observed resonance amplitudes for a repetitively pulsed sample, as first analyzed by Ernst and Anderson in 1966. Applications include determination of spin–lattice relaxation times ( T 1 's) by progressive saturation and correction for partial saturation in order to determine the concentrations of the chemical constituents of a spectrum. Accordingly, the Ernst and Anderson formalism has been used in innumerable studies of chemical and, more recently, physiological systems. However, that formalism implicitly assumes that no chemical exchange occurs. Here, we present an analysis of N sites in an arbitrary chemical exchange network, explicitly focusing on the intermediate exchange rate regime in which the spin–lattice relaxation rates and the chemical exchange rates are comparable in magnitude. As a special case of particular importance, detailed results are provided for a system with three sites undergoing mutual exchange. Specific properties of the N -site network are then detailed. We find that (i) the Ernst and Anderson analysis describing the response of a system to repetitive pulsing is inapplicable to systems with chemical exchange and can result in large errors in T 1 and concentration measurements; (ii) T 1 's for systems with arbitrary exchange networks may still be correctly determined from a one-pulse experiment using the Ernst formula, provided that a short interpulse delay time and a large flip angle are used; (iii) chemical concentrations for exchanging systems may be correctly determined from a one-pulse experiment either by using a short interpulse delay time with a large flip angle, as for measuring T 1 's, and correcting for partial saturation by use of the Ernst formula, or directly by using a long interpulse delay time to avoid saturation; (iv) there is a significant signal-to-noise penalty for performing one-pulse experiments under conditions which permit accurate measurements of T 1 's and chemical concentrations. The present results are analogous to but are much more general than those that we have previously derived for systems with two exchanging sites. These considerations have implications for the design and interpretation of one-pulse experiments for all systems exhibiting chemical exchange in the intermediate exchange regime, including virtually all physiologic samples.
Elite Colleges and Socioeconomic Status

Elite colleges have long been associated with socioeconomic reproduction, passing along elite social standing to children of middle and upper-middle socioeconomic status (SES) parents. How has that role changed during the expansion of American higher education over the past 50 years? Have elite colleges and universities also become providers of socioeconomic mobility? In this essay, I outline recent demographic, admissions, and financial aid changes at these institutions and compare both in-college experiences and college outcomes between low-SES and more-affluent students at elite colleges. I argue that although elite colleges and universities do include greater numbers of low-SES students than in earlier generations and have great potential for even further inclusion, they remain far from serving as broad engines of socioeconomic mobility.
In Search of Judicial Activism: Dangers in Quantifying the Qualitative

This article explores the meaning of judicial activism, critiques recent empirical efforts to resolve the debate quantitatively, and provides a new framework for conceptualizing purported activist behaviors. This framework demonstrates the inherent complexity and subjectivity of the phrase judicial activism. The ultimate goal of my article is to focus attention on the qualitative issue - the appropriate role of the judiciary.Legal empirical scholarship is increasing in number and force. Recent efforts to quantify judicial activism, however, ignore the complexity of identifying what constitutes inappropriate uses of judicial power. Empirical attempts to pinpoint the true activists create risks of sweeping misinterpretations and improper labeling of judges. For example, Professor Lori Ringhand offers empirical data to warrant that the "conservative" justices of the Rehnquist Court engaged in "activism" by invalidating legislation and overturning precedent. My article offers a healthy skepticism of such empirical claims and then a fresh conceptualization for helping us through the morass of the judicial activism debate.Judicial activism is a creature of loaded qualitative meanings and thus resistant, in many respects, to quantitative analysis and conclusions. Despite the appeal of legal empirical scholarship in this nebulous arena, failure to capture the full meaning of the term skews the core debate regarding judicial power and restraint. We cannot cloak ourselves in the security of empirical certainty. Instead, we need deeper dialogue on the complexity of judicial decision-making and the judiciary's role. It is imperative that we not lose sight of the heart of the matter - the proper role of the judge in our constitutional democracy.
Simulation of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement in patient-specific aortic roots: Effect of crimping and positioning on device performance

Calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD) is a cardiovascular condition that causes the progressive narrowing of the aortic valve (AV) opening, due to the growth of bone-like deposits all over the aortic root (AR). Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), a minimally invasive procedure, has recently become the only lifesaving solution for patients that cannot tolerate the standard surgical valve replacement. However, adverse effects, such as AR injury or paravalvular leakage (PVL), may occur as a consequence of a sub-optimal procedure, due to the presence of calcifications in situ. Additionally, the crimping required for delivering the valve via stenting may damage the valve. The aim of the present study is to comparatively assess the crimping mechanics of the commercialized Edwards SAPIEN valve and an alternative polymeric valve (Polynova, Inc) and to evaluate the effect of different TAVR deployment positions using patient-specific numerical models. The optimal deployment location for achieving better patient outcomes was calculated and based on the interactions between the TAVR stent and the native AR. Results demonstrated that the Polynova valve withstands the crimping process better than the SAPIEN valve. Furthermore, deployment simulations showed the role that calcifications deposits may play in the TAVR sub-optimal valve anchoring to the AV wall, leading to the presence of gaps that result in PVL.
Anionic Functionalized Gold Nanoparticle Continuous Full Filling Separations: Importance of Sample Concentration

Electrically driven separations which contain nanoparticles offer detection and separation advantages but are often difficult to reproduce. To address possible sources of separation inconsistencies, anionic functionalized gold nanoparticles are thoroughly characterized and subsequently included in continuous full filling capillary electrophoresis separations of varying concentrations of three small molecules. Citrate stabilized gold nanospheres are functionalized with 11-mercaptoundecanoic acid, 6-mercaptohexanoic acid, or thioctic acid self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) and characterized using dynamic light scattering, extinction spectroscopy, zeta potential, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy prior to use in capillary electrophoresis. Several important trends are noted. First, the stability of these anionic nanoparticles in the capillary improves with increased ligand packing density as indicated by a ratio of absorbance collected at 520 to 600 nm. Second, increasing nanoparticle concentration from 0 to 2 nM (0-0.002(5)%, w/w) minimally impacts analyte migration times; however, when higher nanoparticle concentrations are included within the capillary, nanoparticle aggregation occurs which induces separation inconsistencies. Third, analyte peak areas are most significantly impacted as their concentration decreases. These trends are attributed to both sample enrichment and electrostatic interactions between the anionic carboxylic acid functionalized gold nanoparticles and sample. These important findings suggest that sample concentration-induced conductivity differences between the sample matrix and separation buffer as well as SAM packing density are important parameters to both characterize and consider when nanoparticles are used during continuous full filling separations and their subsequent use to enhance spectroscopic signals to improve in-capillary analyte detection limits.
Liberal tolerance and its hauntings: Moral compasses, anti-Semitism and Islamophobia

The pro-Gaza demonstrations that marked the summer of 2014 were trailed by a concern over the intensity of anti-Semitism among European Muslims and accusations of ‘double standards’ with regard to anti-Muslim racism. In the Netherlands, the debate featured a nexus between the Holocaust, anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, freedom of speech and the limits of tolerance, which beckons a closer analysis. I argue that it indicates the place of the Holocaust in the European imaginary as one of a haunting, which is marked by a structure of dis/avowal. Prescriptive multicultural tolerance, which builds on Europe’s debt to the Holocaust and represents the culturalized response to racial inequalities, reiterates this structure of dis/avowal. It ensures that its normative framework of identity politics and equivalences, and the Holocaust, Jews and anti-Semitism which occupy a seminal place within it, supplies the dominant (and in the case of anti-Semitism, displaced) terms for the contestation of (disavowed) racialized str...
Treatment of Chemical-compounds with Heated Vapor Subtraction System

[Abstract] Heated Soil Vapor Extraction (HSVE), developed by Advanced Remedial Technology is a Soil remediation process that has gained significant attention during the past few years. HSVE along with Air sparging has been found to be an effective way of remediating soil of various pollutants including solvents, fuels and Para-nuclear aromatics. The combined system consists of a heater/boiler that pumps and circulates hot oil through heating wells, a blower that helps to suck the contaminants out through the extraction well, and air sparging wells that extend down to the saturated region in the soil. Both the heating wells and extraction wells are installed vertically in the saturated region in contaminated soil and is welded at the bottom and capped at the top. The heat source heats the soil and the heat is transported inside the soil by means of conduction and convection. This heating of soil results in vaporization of the gases, which are then absorbed by the extraction well. Soil vapor extraction cannot remove contaminants in the saturated zone of the soil that lies below the water table. In that case air sparging may be used. In air sparging system, air is pumped into the saturated zone to help flush the contaminants up into the unsaturated zone where the contaminants are removed by SVE well. In this analysis an a ttempt has been made to predict the behavior of different chemicals in the unsaturated and saturated regions of the soil. This analysis uses the species transport and discrete phase modeling to predict the behavior of different chemicals when it is heated and absorbed by the extraction well. Such an analysis will be helpful in predicting the parameters like the distance between the heating and extraction wells, the temperature to be maintained at the heating well and the time required for removing the contaminants from the soil.
A New Designing Method of Synchronous Sequential Logic Circuits in D Flap-flop

A new designing method of synchronous sequential logic circuits in D flip-flop is proposed.This method is that excitation equation for D flip-flop is obtained directly from the state transition diagrams of sequential logic circuits,so the synchronous sequectial logic circuit is designed to a nicety.
The 2002 Recommended Childhood Immunization Schedule and Progress Toward Elimination of Thimerosal

The 2002 Recommended Childhood Immunization Schedule is now available. The format of the 2002 schedule differs somewhat from the 2001 schedule; it is based in large part on the modifications developed by the Minnesota Department of Health.
Stimulus and optode placement effects on functional near-infrared spectroscopy of visual cortex.

Functional near-infrared spectroscopy has yet to be implemented as a stand-alone technique within an ophthalmology clinical setting, despite its promising advantages. The present study aims to further investigate reliability of visual cortical signals. This was achieved by: (1) assessing the effects of optode placements using the 10-20 International System of Electrode Placement consisting of 28 channels, (2) determining effects of stimulus size on response, and (3) evaluating response variability as a result of cap placement across three sessions. Ten participants with mean age 23.8 � 4.8 years (five male) and varying types of hair color and thick- ness were recruited. Visual stimuli of black-and-white checkerboards, reversing at a frequency of 7.5 Hz were presented. Visual angles of individual checker squares included 1 deg, 2 deg, 5 deg, 9 deg, and 18 deg. The number of channels that showed response was analyzed for each participant, stimulus size, and session. 1-deg stimulus showed the greatest activation. One of three data collection sessions for each participant gave different results (p < 0.05). Hair color and thickness each had an effect upon the overall HbO (p < 0.05), while only color had a significant effect for HbD (p < 0.05). A reliable level of robustness and consistency is still required for clinical implementation and assessment of visual dysfunction. © 2016 Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers
Stage Manager of Japan’s “Bubble Economy” Political World (1986–1989)

The post-1985 “bubble economy” intruded into the world of politics with the expansion of special warishin bearer bonds. Diabetes and prostate cancer hobbled Kanemaru’s political activities. The LDP leadership proposed a consumption tax, but Kanemaru suddenly broke ranks and disavowed it, throwing the LDP elite into a tizzy. Kanemaru engineered Nakasone’s departure and Takeshita’s ascension in the hard-fought 1987 LDP Presidential sweepstakes. Kanemaru became “the guardian” of the Diet’s largest political group, the Keiseikai or the Takeshita faction (October, 1987). Kanemaru and Takeshita fought over the consumption tax. The Recruit “scandal”: Takeshita’s power web was publically revealed in the media, forcing Takeshita to resign. Mudslinging and broken promises brought public disenchantment and anger. Takeshita selected Uno Sosuke as Prime Minister (Summer, 1989), cutting Kanemaru out of the loop.
Treatment of Adolescent Suicide Attempters

Publisher Summary The treatment outcome literature on adolescent suicidal behavior is very small. Consequently, there are limited empirical guidelines regarding appropriate treatment for adolescents who have attempted suicide. Managing and treating adolescent suicidal behavior is often anxiety provoking for clinicians, and the lack of empirical guidelines in these area further compromises the availability of effective treatments for this high-risk group. As in the adult literature, there have been two major approaches to psychotherapy with adolescent suicide attempters: treating the underlying diagnostic condition and addressing the suicidal behavior directly. Although efficacious treatment for the underlying disorder is important, it does not necessarily reduce suicidality. This chapter reviews the outcome studies conducted to date and emphasizes the treatment outcome studies and clinical approaches specifically designed for suicidal behavior. Both nonrandomized and randomized trials are included. Clinical guidelines for treating adolescents who have attempted suicide are suggested, drawing on the current literature. This chapter focuses on outpatient treatment protocols, although many of the brief treatment approaches are applicable to inpatient settings. Because no outcome studies of pharmacologic treatments specifically for suicidal behavior have been reported, medication trials are not discussed in this chapter.
Resuscitation from traumatic hemorrhagic shock with Na+/H+ exchanger inhibitor

Severe hemorrhage from traumatic injury is a major causative factor in almost half of these deaths on the battlefield, especially during the early period (<2h) after injury. Intervention with low-volume fluid resuscitation is increasingly preferred than more aggressive fluid replacement. We evaluated the use of a Na+/H+ exchanger (NHE) inhibitor, as a cardioprotective adjunct therapy to low-volume resuscitation in a rat model of traumatic hemorrhagic shock. Methods: Femur fracture with soft tissue injury was induced in 28 anesthetized male rats. The animals were then bled via the carotid artery to maintain a mean arterial pressure of 40 mmHg for 20 minutes. Groups: 1) no therapy; 2) 15 ml/kg Hextend infusion over 40 minutes; 3) 3 mg/kg BIIB513 (NHE-1 inhibitor) + 15 ml/kg Hextend infusion over 40 minutes. After 4 hours, the animals who survived received a second infusion of Hextend. The experiment was terminated at 6 hours after initial resuscitation. Data are reported as mean ± SD. Results: All animals in the no therapy group died within 2 hours. Compared to Hextend infusion alone, the addition of NHE-1 inhibition with BIIB513, improved the hemodynamic response to fluid resuscitation (Fig 1), increased blood oxygen content, prevented metabolic acidosis, and improved 6 hour survival (42% in Hextend group vs 80% in BIIB513 + Hextend group). NHE-1 inhibition also resulted in reduced plasma levels of TNF-α, ICAM-1 and C-reactive protein, and attenuated neutrophil infiltration in the liver. Conclusion: NHE-1 inhibition with BIIB513 improved the hemodynamic response to fluid resuscitation, attenuated tissue inflammatory mediators, and most importantly improved survival.
The Rhetoric of enkomion poleos and the Sanctification of Madrid in a pliego suelto Attributed to Lope de Vega

ABSTRACTThis article explores the fusion of epideictic rhetoric and biblical source material in a 1601 romance dubiously attributed to Lope de Vega and argues that the rhetorical model of urban praise known as enkomion poleos, as articulated by Menander of Laodicea, fundamentally structures the poem's refiguring of Israel's Babylonian exile. This overlaying of enkomion poleos with biblical narrative ultimately serves as a persuasive means both of praising Madrid and of criticizing the Duke of Lerma's move of the court to Valladolid. The poem's sacralized rhetoric of urban praise further points to an important mode of urban writing that has not received due critical attention. This article also highlights some commonalities between this pliego and other works by Lope de Vega, tentatively suggesting that the question of the pliego's authorship demands further consideration.
Quantitative Determination of Ultraviolet Radiation

Evaluating the safety of ultraviolet radiation (UVR) directly from ultraviolet lamps, industrial sources or the sun with a simple, easy-to-use instrument has not been feasible until the last few years when quality instruments have become accessible. The problem has historically been the separation of the UVR from the visible and infrared portions of the optical spectrum and then accurately weighting the UVR to the documented human biological response curve. Many instruments designed to measure UVR from a particular source will not accurately measure the UVR from another broadband source due to spectral differences. The most accurate method for measuring the actinic UVR (UV-B and UV-C) is still to tediously measure the UVR in each wavelength region with a double monochrometer and then manually weight these values to the human response spectrum. For safety evaluation, several direct reading instruments may be used when high accuracy is really not necessary. Polysulphone film detectors may be used in those situations where direct reading is not feasible, several simultaneous measurements are desired, or in a harsh environment where electromagnetic interference is present. The exposed detectors can be evaluated in a less harsh environment later.
Quantitative Conjugated Payload Measurement Using Enzymatic Release of Antibody–Drug Conjugate with Cleavable Linker

As antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) design is evolving with novel payload, linker, and conjugation chemistry, the need for sensitive and precise quantitative measurement of conjugated payload to support pharmacokinetics (PK) is in high demand. Compared to ADCs containing noncleavable linkers, a strategy specific to linkers which are liable to pH, chemical reduction, or enzymatic cleavage has gained popularity in recent years. One bioanalytical approach to take advantage of this type of linker design is the development of a PK assay measuring released conjugated payload. For the ADC utilizing a dipeptide ValCit linker studied in this report, the release of payload PF-06380101 was achieved with high efficiency using a purified cathepsin B enzyme. The subsequent liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC/MS) quantitation leads to the PK profile of the conjugated payload. For this particular linker using a maleimide-based conjugation chemistry, one potential route of payload loss would result in an albumin addu...
Development and clinical translation of a cone-beam CT scanner for high-quality imaging of intracranial hemorrhage

Purpose: Prompt, reliable detection of intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) is essential for treatment of stroke and traumatic brain injury, and would benefit from availability of imaging directly at the point-of-care. This work reports the performance evaluation of a clinical prototype of a cone-beam CT (CBCT) system for ICH imaging and introduces novel algorithms for model-based reconstruction with compensation for data truncation and patient motion. Methods: The tradeoffs in dose and image quality were investigated as a function of analytical (FBP) and model-based iterative reconstruction (PWLS) algorithm parameters using phantoms with ICH-mimicking inserts. Image quality in clinical applications was evaluated in a human cadaver imaged with simulated ICH. Objects outside of the field of view (FOV), such as the head-holder, were found to introduce challenging truncation artifacts in PWLS that were mitigated with a novel multi-resolution reconstruction strategy. Following phantom and cadaver studies, the scanner was translated to a clinical pilot study. Initial clinical experience indicates the presence of motion in some patient scans, and an image-based motion estimation method that does not require fiducial tracking or prior patient information was implemented and evaluated. Results: The weighted CTDI for a nominal scan technique was 22.8 mGy. The high-resolution FBP reconstruction protocol achieved Conclusion: The imaging performance of the prototype suggests sufficient quality for ICH imaging and motivates continued clinical studies to assess the diagnosis utility of the CBCT system in realistic clinical scenarios at the point of care.
Identifying Rare Montane Meadow Parnassian Butterfly Populations Across Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

The pristine, protected ecosystem of Grand Teton National Park (GRTE) is the ideal location to study the relationships between butterfly populations and the habitats on which these insects depend. Two montane meadow butterfly species, Parnassius clodius and Parnassius smintheus, were investigated in this study to identify patterns of habitat occupancy relating to variables across GRTE and into the surrounding territory of BridgerâTeton National Forest (BTNF). Population dynamics of P. clodius have been intensively studied by our research group over several consecutive years in one isolated population in Grand Teton National Park. However, little has been investigated regarding the Parnassian butterfliesâ population range across the GRTE ecosystem. For this study, presence-absence butterfly surveys were conducted across 45 meadow sites in preferred habitat during the Parnassius flight season (June â July 2013). We found that P. clodius occupied 80% of the meadows surveyed, which was far greater than was originally predicted. P. smintheus, the more rare Parnassian butterfly in the GRTE ecosystem, was only found at 9% of the meadows surveyed. Understanding population ranges and habitat limits of these butterfly populations will be useful for managers and scientists within GRTE, and will assist conservation efforts for other related Parnassian species that are threatened or endangered worldwide due to habitat loss and climate change.
Mapping burned areas using dense time-series of Landsat data

Abstract Complete and accurate burned area data are needed to document patterns of fires, to quantify relationships between the patterns and drivers of fire occurrence, and to assess the impacts of fires on human and natural systems. Unfortunately, in many areas existing fire occurrence datasets are known to be incomplete. Consequently, the need to systematically collect burned area information has been recognized by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, which have both called for the production of essential climate variables (ECVs), including information about burned area. In this paper, we present an algorithm that identifies burned areas in dense time-series of Landsat data to produce the Landsat Burned Area Essential Climate Variable (BAECV) products. The algorithm uses gradient boosted regression models to generate burn probability surfaces using band values and spectral indices from individual Landsat scenes, lagged reference conditions, and change metrics between the scene and reference predictors. Burn classifications are generated from the burn probability surfaces using pixel-level thresholding in combination with a region growing process. The algorithm can be applied anywhere Landsat and training data are available. For this study, BAECV products were generated for the conterminous United States from 1984 through 2015. These products consist of pixel-level burn probabilities for each Landsat scene, in addition to, annual composites including: the maximum burn probability and a burn classification. We compared the BAECV burn classification products to the existing Global Fire Emissions Database (GFED; 1997–2015) and Monitoring Trends in Burn Severity (MTBS; 1984–2013) data. We found that the BAECV products mapped 36% more burned area than the GFED and 116% more burned area than MTBS. Differences between the BAECV products and the GFED were especially high in the West and East where the BAECV products mapped 32% and 88% more burned area, respectively. However, the BAECV products found less burned area than the GFED in regions with frequent agricultural fires. Compared to the MTBS data, the BAECV products identified 31% more burned area in the West, 312% more in the Great Plains, and 233% more in the East. Most pixels in the MTBS data were detected by the BAECV, regardless of burn severity. The BAECV products document patterns of fire similar to those in the GFED but also showed patterns of fire that are not well characterized by the existing MTBS data. We anticipate the BAECV products will be useful to studies that seek to understand past patterns of fire occurrence, the drivers that created them, and the impacts fires have on natural and human systems.
Bioengineering Bacterially Derived Immunomodulants: A Therapeutic Approach to Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Bacterial enteric pathogens have evolved efficient mechanisms to suppress mammalian inflammatory and immunoregulatory pathways. By exploiting the evolutionary relationship between the gut and pathogenic bacteria, we have developed a potential mucosal therapeutic. Our findings suggest that engineered preparations of the Salmonella acetyltransferase, AvrA, suppress acute inflammatory responses such as those observed in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). We created 125 nm diameter cross-linked protein nanoparticles directly from AvrA and carrier protein to deliver AvrA in the absence of Salmonella. AvrA nanoparticles are internalized in vitro and in vivo into barrier epithelial and lamina propria monocytic cells. AvrA nanoparticles inhibit inflammatory signaling and confer cytoprotection in vitro, and in murine colitis models, we observe decreased clinical and histological indices of inflammation. Thus, we have combined naturally evolved immunomodulatory proteins with modern bioengineering to produce AvrA nan...
The new paradigm of finite element solutions with overlapping elements in CAD – Computational efficiency of the procedure

Abstract We consider the new paradigm of finite element analysis, present an effective overlapping finite element, and study the computational efficiency of the discretization scheme. The important new ingredient in the formulation of the overlapping element is that, unlike in meshless methods, we only use local polynomial functions in the displacement interpolations. We achieve this property by replacing the Shepard functions by local polynomials. As a consequence, the bandwidth of the resulting stiffness matrix for the overlapping finite element is much reduced when compared with earlier developments. We study the distortion insensitivity of the new overlapping finite element, the convergence properties and the required computational effort when compared with the use of the traditional 4-node finite element and that element with covers. The results show the overlapping element to be very promising, in particular in the new paradigm of analysis using finite elements in CAD.
The Frobenius Effect: Frederick Starr in the Congo

ABSTRACTAt the turn of the twentieth century, numerous European and American adventurers, entrepreneurs, missionaries, colonial agents, and a few intrepid scientists and explorers, converged in the...
Presenilins and Alzheimer’s disease: the role of Aβ42

The presenilin proteins, localized predominantly to the endoplasmic reticulum, are multi-transmembrane spanning proteins that are processed to form an approximately 27kD N-terminal fragment and a corresponding 19kD C-terminal fragment. Mutations in the presenilin 1 and presenilin 2 genes have been identified that cause early onset familial Alzheimer’s disease Analysis of plasma and fibroblasts from patients revealed that these mutations increase the concentration of Aβ42 Cells and transgenic animals containing these mutations both give rise to increases in the extracellular concentration of this peptide providing further evidence for the role of Aβ, particularly Aβ42, in Alzheimer’s disease. These data provide strong evidence that alterations in Aβ concentration are an early and critical event in the pathology of Alzheimer’s disease.
Information, probability and learning from examples

Learning is a process of modeling an approximation to a concept or target function from examples or (random) data. In contrast to explicit programming where complete a priori rules are laid out, little a priori knowledge is required for learning.
Zubov Theorem and Domain of Attraction for Controlled Dynamic Systems

Abstract To study feedback stabilization and the domain of attraction for nonlinear control systems, the relation between Zubov’s theory and Hamilton-Jacobi equation is derived. Based on this, sufficient condition for a control system to have a largest domain of attraction is addressed. It is also proved that if a homogeneous control system is stabilizable locally by state feedback, then it is stabilizable in any bounded open set.
TEMPERATURE DEPENDENT RH...RH EXAFS IN DINUCLEAR AND ADSORBED RHODIUM SPECIES

In a recent study of metal adsorbates, we have observed in several model complexes that EXAFS absorber-backscatterer features for metal-metal interactions may be highly temperature dependent. This in turn can make metal-metal EXAFS undetectable in data collected at room temperature. The importance of observing these features in order to correctly identify adsorbate species in heterogeneous catalyst systems cannot be overemphasized and prompts us to give a preliminary account of our results on crystallographically characterized Rh complexes. The preliminary results of our study on a series of dinuclear rhodium model complexes and resulting adsorbed species indicate that the observation of metal-metal EXAFS can be highly temperature dependent and missing in room temperature data. For metal adsorbates, where bridged polynuclear species are possible surface species, observation of metal-metal EXAFS is critical in correctly identifying adsorbed species, and thus the collection and analysis of low temperature data is imperative. 16 refs., 1 fig.
Therapeutic immunization for recurrent herpes simplex virus infections

Two centuries ago Jenner dramatically demonstrated the power of vaccines for disease prevention. He protected individuals from the deadly smallpox virus by injecting them with vesicular fluid from cowpox lesions. Currently, vaccines are used world-wide as primary tools for preventing infectious diseases. In addition to this traditional role, some investigators today think vaccines can be used to treat diseases. Other scientists disagree.1 Skeptics argue that vaccines cannot boost the immune response better than the natural infection itself In the case of recurrent herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections, the virus reactivates periodically in spite of natural immunity. To be useful therapeutically, then, a vaccine would have to present herpes antigens to the immune system in a different, more effective way than they are presented by natural recurrences. Data emerging from vaccine therapy of patients with recurrent HSV infections suggests that vaccines can be used to treat disease.
Incorporating time-resolved three-dimensional phase contrast (4D flow) MRI in clinical workflow: initial experiences at a large tertiary care medical center.

Background Time-resolved three-dimensional phase contrast (4D flow) MRI allows for visualization of three-dimensional cardiovascular anatomy and pulsatile flow with full volumetric coverage in a single, easy to prescribe 3D acquisition. The technique provides comprehensive flow visualization and permits retrospective flow quantification at any user-defined region of interest. [1] To our knowledge, no center has incorporated 4D flow MRI as a part of standard clinical cardiovascular MRI (CMR). The goals of this study include: 1) reporting on the incorporation of 4D flow MRI acquisition and processing as part of clinical CMR workflow and 2) better understanding the clinical impact of 3D flow visualization and retrospective flow quantification derived from 4D flow MRI in CMR.
Impact of Mechanical Ventilation on Waveforms

The interaction of mechanical ventilation and pulmonary mechanics is easier to appreciate by waveform monitoring. This enables the clinician to more objectively assess patient-ventilator synchrony and to adjust ventilator parameters to the individual needs of the baby based on both the underlying pathophysiology and the baby’s response to changes in ventilator settings.
A treatable hypertrophic neuropathy

A 42-year-old woman was referred to our institution with 5 years of progressive proximal and distal weakness, distal paresthesia in lower and upper limbs, severe shocking pain radiating from the neck and lumbar spine to upper and lower limbs, and voice hoarseness. She had previously been diagnosed with multiple plexiform neurofibromas after imaging studies had shown marked nerve hypertrophy. She had no relevant family history. On examination, there was a severe tetraparesis (2/5 distal and 3/5 proximal lower limbs; 4/5 upper limbs), absent reflexes throughout, absent plantar reflexes, stocking and glove sensation loss to all modalities, bilateral foot drop, steppage gait assisted by a walker, a positive Romberg’s sign and no stigmata of neurofibromatosis type 1. Nerve conduction studies and electromyography showed very slow ulnar motor conduction velocity at 7 m/s, a compound muscle action potential amplitude of 0.2 mV and distal motor latency of 18 ms. Her left R1 blink response was very prolonged at 19.2 ms. Cerebrospinal fluid protein was 0.73 g/L (0.15–0.45), cell count 2/µL …
Unique, Intersecting, and Overlapping Roles of C/EBP β and CREB in Cells of the Innate Immune System

CREB and C/EBP β signaling pathways are modulated during inflammation and also targeted by Bacillus anthracis edema toxin (ET), but how these factors individually and jointly contribute to changes in immune cell function is poorly understood. Using CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, macrophage cell lines lacking CREB and isoforms of C/EBP β were generated and analyzed for changes in responses to LPS, ET, and IL-4. Macrophages lacking C/EBP β suppressed induction of IL-10 and Arg1, while IL-6 was increased in these cells following exposure to LPS. Examination of C/EBP β isoforms indicated the 38 kDa isoform was necessary for the expression of IL-10 and Arg1. ChIP-Seq analysis of CREB and C/EBP β binding to targets on the chromosome of human PBMC identified several regions where both factors overlapped in their binding, suggesting similar gene targeting or cooperative effects. Based on the ChIP-Seq data, a panel of previously unknown targets of CREB and C/EBP β was identified and includes genes such as VNN2, GINS4, CTNNBL1, and SULF2. Isoforms of a transcriptional corepressor, transducin-like enhancer of Split (TLE), were also found to have CREB and C/EBP β binding their promoter and were up regulated by ET. Finally, we explore a possible layer of C/EBP β regulation by a protein complex consisting of adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) and PKA. Collectively, these data provide new insights into the role of CREB and C/EBP β as immunosignaling regulators and targets of an important bacterial virulence factor.
Level-headed

I don't believe that human-level intelligence is a well defined goal. As the cognitive-science community learns more about thinking and computation, the mileposts will keep changing in ways that we can't predict, as will the esteem we assign to past accomplishments. It would be fun to have a computer that could solve brain teasers as well as the average scientist, but focusing on such things, besides being parochial, overlooks the crucial role language plays in everything humans do, a role we understand hardly at all on a computational level. I am optimistic that we will eventually figure language out, but not without new ideas. Plus, when we can talk to machines, will we understand each other?
Repressed productive potential and revolt: insights from an insurgency in Burundi

The relationship between participation in revolt and individuals' economic conditions is among the most debated in political science. While conventional economic theory suggests that those who face the poorest economic prospects are most inclined to fight, extant evidence is decidedly mixed. We address this puzzling variation by analyzing the interplay between macro-structural conditions and individuals' micro-level circumstances. Under conditions of severe group repression, we show how a “glass-ceiling” logic may operate: among the repressed group, those with relatively high productive potential may be most motivated to revolt. We test this with in-depth analysis of participation in the 1993–2003 Burundian insurgency. The data are consistent with numerous implications of the glass-ceiling logic and inconsistent with extant alternative explanations.
Multi-Joint Arm Posture — New Perspectives on the Control of Arm Posture

Studies of the mechanical properties of the musculoskeletal apparatus have been found to be useful in gaining insights into the “rules” of the neural controller. This approach is based on the assumption that the neural control system must not only control but also take advantage of the musculoskeletal apparatus.
Increasing civil aviation capacity in China requires harmonizing the physical and human components of capacity: A review and investigation

Abstract China is the world's second largest aviation market and is projected to become the largest by the mid-2020s. However, there is a mismatch among the three critical components that determine aviation capacity: airports, airlines, and air traffic management. The uneven pace of development for these major components within the aviation system limits the efforts to improve on-time performance and accommodate the growing market demand. Through a careful examination of academic literature, official reports, and news articles, this study examines the recent achievements, reform, and institutional challenges facing the three critical components in China's aviation system. It highlights their interactions with the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), the omnipresent aviation authority in China, and explains the mismatch between the rapidly expanding ground aviation infrastructure and a highly constrained airspace amid increasing demand for air travel and worsening on-time performance. By incorporating institutional factors into the discussion of the critical components, this study aims to help enhance the understanding of China's civil aviation and inform officials to take necessary actions to prepare the country for the continuing growth of its aviation market.
Identification of Job Lock and Inefficient Labor Market Mobility

The common practice of linking employment with certain fringe benefits, notably health insurance, has long been thought to impede labor market mobility, thereby producing a phenomenon called job lock. A sizable literature has developed theoretical frameworks for how job lock impacts the labor market and empirically estimated the magnitudes of these effects. However, most empirical studies rely on identification strategies that do not separately identify productivity enhancing from productivity reducing labor market mobility. This article develops a simple theoretical framework showing how prior identification strategies confound both types of mobility and outlines conditions where productivity reducing mobility is of greatest concern.
Don’t Let the Tornado Get You! The Effects of Agency Assignment and Self-Construal on Responses to Tornado Preparedness Messages

ABSTRACTThis experiment explores the effects of agency assignment and self-construal on responses to tornado preparedness messages. Participants (N = 276) were randomly assigned to one of four cond...
Pedagogical Guidance to Educators in Teaching a Sneaker Design in a Fashion Design Program

The faculty goals were to implement of an intensive experimental sneaker design class for eight weeks (three credits) and aimed to improve students’ sneaker drawing skills and knowledge of the design and sneaker manufacture processes incorporating 3D printing. Each course session during an eight-week course period was delivered via a mini-lecture (10-20 minutes) and active learning (60-70 minutes) in their teaching of three main content sections of the course: (a) sketching, (b) pattern-making, and (c) 3D printing. Throughout the course,the faculty evaluated course learning outcomes to determine improvements for future courses. The overall content and delivery were effective in teaching the structure of sneakers and design process during the eight-week course, as demonstrated in the students’ final prototypes. Through sketching sneaker sections, students can start brainstorming and generate their own creative ideas. In addition, educators could seriously consider requiring recycled or reused materials (e.g., old t-shirts, jackets, and jeans) when developing a sustainable shoe course, because most students prefer using textiles and recycled clothing to create their patterns and prototypes of shoes.