cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Thickness distribution of sputtered films on curved substrates for adjustable x-ray optics

Piezoelectric adjustable x-ray optics use magnetron sputtered thin film coatings on both sides of a thin curved glass substrate. To produce an optic suitable for a mission requiring high-angular resolution like “Lynx,” the integrated stresses (stress×thickness) of films on both sides of the optic must be approximately equal. Thus, understanding how sputtered film thickness distributions change for convex and concave curved substrates is necessary. To address this, thickness distributions of piezoelectric Pb0.995(Zr0.52Ti0.48)0.99Nb0.01O3 films are studied on flat, convex, and concave cylindrical substrates with a 220-mm radius of curvature. A mathematical model of the film thickness distribution is derived based on the geometric properties of the sputter tool and the substrate, and film thicknesses deposited with a commercially available sputtering tool are measured with spectroscopic ellipsometry. Experiment and modeled results for flat and convex curved substrates demonstrate good agreement, with average relative thickness distribution difference of 0.19% and −0.10% respectively, and a higher average difference of 1.4% for concave substrates. The calculated relative thickness distributions are applied to the convex and concave sides of a finite-element analysis (FEA) model of an adjustable x-ray optic prototype. The FEA model shows that, left uncorrected, the relative film thickness variation will yield an optic with an optical performance of 2.6 arc sec half power diameter (HPD) at 1 keV. However, the mirror figure can be corrected to diffraction-limited performance (0.3 arc sec HPD) using the piezoelectric adjusters, suggesting that the tolerances for applying a balanced integrated stress on both sides of a mirror are alleviated for adjustable x-ray optics as compared to traditional static x-ray mirrors. Furthermore, the piezoelectric adjusters will also allow changes in mirror figure over the telescope lifetime due to drift in the stress states of the x-ray surfaces to be corrected on orbit.
Mechanism of tea catechin and caffeine in inhibition of lung tumor progression induced by 4-(Methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK) in A/J mouse

1914 Chemoprevention is considered as a promising weapon to fight against cancers. The present study investigated the inhibitory effects of Polyphenon E (a standardized green tea polyphenol preparation containing 65% EGCG) and caffeine on lung tumor progression from adenoma to adenocarcinoma in 4-(methylnitrosaminao)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK) model. Female A/J mice were treated with a single dose of NNK (103 mg/kg b.w., ip), and by Week 20, the mice developed lung adenoma. The mice were then given 0.5% Polyphenon E or 0.044% caffeine as the sole source of drinking fluid until Week 52. Polyphenon E administration significantly reduced the incidence (by 52%) and multiplicity (by 63%) of lung adenocarcinoma. Caffeine also showed inhibitory effects, but the results were not statistically significant. Markers of cell proliferation, apoptosis, and cellular signal pathways were studied by immunohistochemistry. Labeling index and staining intensity were quantified by Image-Pro system. Polyphenon E and caffeine treatment inhibited cell proliferation (by 57% and 50%, respectively in adenocarcinomas) and enhanced apoptosis in the adenomas (both by 2.5 folds) and adenocarcinomas (by 2.6 and 4 folds, respectively), but both agents had no significant effect on apoptosis in the normal tissues. The cancer preventive effects of Polyphenon E and caffeine were associated with lower levels of Erk and c-Jun phosphorylation. Furthermore, a two-week treatment (0.32% EGCG or 0.044% caffeine) on mice, that have developed adenoma at 20 weeks after NNK injection, showed increased apoptotic index (by 130% and 140%, respectively) in the adenomas. Caffeine administration reduced Erk and c-Jun phosphorylation levels (38% and 72%, respectively; P
Predictive and prognostic value of B-cell gene-expression signatures and B-cell receptor (BCR) repertoire in HER2+ breast cancer: A correlative analysis of the CALGB 40601 clinical trial (Alliance)

Abstract Background Although tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes density is associated with increased response and improved outcomes in HER2+ breast cancer, BCR clonal diversity repertoire could provide a more informative measure of an individual’s immune-mediated anti-tumor response. In this study, we focus on the specific role of B-cell gene-expression signatures and BCR repertoire as predictive and prognostic biomarkers in CALGB 40601, a neoadjuvant study of single vs. dual (trastuzumab + lapatinib) HER2 targeting with paclitaxel. Methods Gene expression profiling by mRNA sequencing was performed on 265 pre-treatment samples and signature scores were calculated by determining the median expression of all genes in a signature. BCR repertoire analysis using V’DJer was assessed on 256 of the samples. The predictive and prognostic value of clinical parameters, signature scores and BCR diversity metrics was tested in a univariate analysis for pathologic complete response (pCR) and event-free survival (EFS). Results Of the >600 expression signatures tested, 10 were significantly associated with both pCR and EFS. Five immune-related signatures were associated with higher pCR and better outcome: a T-helper signature (OR = 5.1, HR = 0.22, both p Conclusions B-cell gene expression signatures have a relevant predictive and prognostic value in CALGB 40601. The clinical implementation of these biomarkers could help us to design new neoadjuvant treatment strategies for HER2+ breast cancer. Clinical trial identification NCT007708. Legal entity responsible for the study Alliance of Clinical Trials. Funding U10CA180821, U10CA180882, U24CA196171, P50-CA58223, GSK, SPORE, BCRF and SEOM. Disclosure C.M. Perou: Advisory / Consultancy, Shareholder / Stockholder / Stock options: BioClassifier LLC; Licensing / Royalties, Inventor on patent applications: Breast PAM50. All other authors have declared no conflicts of interest.
Manifestly Covariant Lagrangians, Classical Particles with Spin, and the Origins of Gauge Invariance

In this paper, we review a general technique for converting the standard Lagrangian description of a classical system into a formulation that puts time on an equal footing with the system's degrees of freedom. We show how the resulting framework anticipates key features of special relativity, including the signature of the Minkowski metric tensor and the special role played by theories that are invariant under a generalized notion of Lorentz transformations. We then use this technique to revisit a classification of classical particle-types that mirrors Wigner's classification of quantum particle-types in terms of irreducible representations of the Poincare group, including the cases of massive particles, massless particles, and tachyons. Along the way, we see gauge invariance naturally emerge in the context of classical massless particles with nonzero spin, as well as study the massless limit of a massive particle and derive a classical-particle version of the Higgs mechanism.
Crossing Borders and Negotiating Boundaries: The Seventeenth-Century European Missions and Persecution

On their journeys through the Dutch Republic and the German territories, seventeenth-century Quaker missionaries came into contact with a wide variety of religiously inspired groups and individuals. This article considers some problems of conventional historiographical approaches to the new religious diversity in early modern Europe. Persecution was an especially important issue for travelling ministers. Despite their own experience, some religious radicals strongly objected to the Quaker view on persecution, so that, among others, 'sufferings' became a controversial subject. This article argues that controversy was part of a transnational process of mapping out the new, radical spectrum in which many religious radicals were actively involved. Dynamics within this spectrum can also be argued to have contributed to a new culture of religious debate. Two examples of contemporary response to Quaker 'sufferings' are presented and discussed with this wider perspective in mind.
Measuring the Affinity of Protein-Protein Interactions on a single-molecule level by Mass Photometry

Measurements of biomolecular interactions are crucial to understand the mechanisms of the biological processes they facilitate. Bulk-based methods such as ITC and SPR provide important information on binding affinities, stoichiometry, and kinetics of interactions. However, the ensemble averaging approaches are not able to probe the intrinsic heterogeneity often displayed by biological systems. Interactions that involve cooperativity or result in the formation of multicomponent complexes pose additional experimental challenges. Single-molecule techniques have previously been applied to solve these problems. However, single-molecule experiments are often technically demanding and require labeling or immobilization of the molecules under study. A recently developed single-molecule method, mass photometry (MP), overcomes these limitations. Here we applied MP to measure the affinities of biomolecular interactions. We have demonstrated how MP allows the user to study multivalent complexes and quantify the affinities of different binding sites in a single measurement. Results obtained from this single-molecule technique have been validated by ITC and BLI. The quality and information content of the MP data, combined with simple and fast measurements and low sample consumption makes MP a new preferred method for measuring strong protein-protein interactions.
Implementing Policy, Systems, and Environmental Change Through Community Coalitions and Extension Partnerships to Address Obesity in Rural Louisiana

Community coalitions and agents funded by the Louisiana State University Agricultural Center's Healthy Communities program implemented multilevel obesity prevention interventions in 3 rural parishes (ie, counties) with an obesity prevalence of 40% or higher. The Healthy Communities coalitions appraised local health concerns through needs assessments and community forums. On the basis of local needs and the evidence base, the coalitions identified and implemented policy, systems, and environmental (PSE) strategies and supporting education to promote healthy behavior change among residents, overcoming barriers in the process. Interventions varied by parish but included Complete Streets implementation plans, healthy retail initiatives, play space improvements, downtown beautification projects, and Smarter Lunchrooms.
O-033 Computational fluid dynamics analysis to compare flow diversion efficacy of evolve and pipeline devices

Introduction Flow diversion has successfully treated aneurysm patients for more than a decade. Multiple devices with design variations in composition and braid structure have been released over this time with the primary goal of intraneurysmal flow reduction. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) studies have been the most commonly used method to evaluate the effect of different pore structures on intraneurysmal flow. The goal of this study was to use CFD analysis to compare the flow diversion behavior of the second-generation release of the Surpass flow diverter (Surpass Evolve, Stryker Neurovascular) with the latest generation Pipeline device (Pipeline Flex Embolization Device with Shield, Medtronic Neurovascular). Methods Evolve and Pipeline flow diverters were deployed in silicone replicas of two patient-specific aneurysms (figure 1). The ‘treated’ replicas were scanned at a voxel resolution of 10.3 microns with a micro-CT scanner. Image slices encompassing the aneurysm neck were segmented. The centerline of each wire in the aneurysm neck region was manually traced and used to design the flow diverter covering the neck. The devices were manually registered and embedded in the aneurysm neck wall, i.e., the effect of wall apposition was not considered here. CFD was conducted in Fluent (ANSYS, Canonsburg, PA) by generating a volumetric mesh comprised of 2–4.5 Million polyhedral cells. An instantaneous, pulsatile, axisymmetric velocity profile was imposed at the cervical carotid entrance and pressures at the middle cerebral, anterior cerebral, and posterior communicating outlets were set to atmospheric. The kinetic energy of flow (velocity-squared) was averaged over the aneurysm volume at about 200 time-points over the cardiac cycle and used to compare the relative flow diversion efficacy of the two devices. Results The figure 1 shows the streamlines near systole color-coded by velocity for all 6 cases. A progressive qualitative reduction (from red to blue color) can be seen in the inflow ‘jet’ as well as intraneurysmal velocities from the Control (no device) to Pipeline to Evolve cases. The plots quantifying the kinetic energy with each device clearly show that the intraneurysmal flow activity with the Evolve device was less than with the Pipeline device. Conclusion The Evolve device produced greater reduction in intraneurysmal flow as compared to the Pipeline device in this computational study. In vivo studies are required to evaluate the endothelialization and biological efficacy of the devices. Disclosures C. Sadasivan: 1; C; Stryker Neurovascular, Vascular Simulations Inc. 2; C; Vascular Simulations Inc. 4; C; Vascular Simulations Inc. 6; C; Vascular Simulations Inc. B. Kovarovic: None. R. Ghosh: None. D. Fiorella: 1; C; Stryker Neurovascular, Medtronic Neurovascular. 2; C; Stryker Neurovascular, Medtronic Neurovascular. 4; C; Vascular Simulations Inc.
Extracting Insights From Temporal Data by Integrating Dynamic Modeling and Machine Learning

Biological processes are dynamic. As a result, temporal analyses are necessary to fully understand the complex interactions that occurs within these systems. One example of a multifaceted biological process is restitution: the initial step in complex wound repair. Restitution is a dynamic process that depends on an elegant orchestration between damaged cells and their intact neighbors. Such orchestration enables the quick repair of the damaged area, which is essential to preserve epithelial integrity and prevent further injury. High quality dynamic data of the cellular and molecular events that make up the gastric restitution process has been documented. However, comprehensive dynamic models that connect all relevant molecular interactions to cellular behaviors are challenging to construct and experimentally validate. In order to efficiently provide feedback to ongoing experimental work, we have integrated dynamical modeling and machine learning to efficiently extract data-driven insights without incorporating detailed mechanisms. Dynamical models convert time course data into a set of static features, which are then subjected to machine learning analysis. The integrated analysis provides data-driven insights into how repair might be regulated in individual gastric organoids. We have provided a "proof of concept" of how such an analysis pipeline can be used to analyze any temporal dataset and provide timely data-driven insights.
Codevelopment of Delinquency, Alcohol Use, and Aggression Toward Peers and Dates: Multitrajectory Patterns and Predictors

We aimed to characterize developmental patterns of involvement in alcohol use, delinquency, and interpersonal aggression in a normative sample of adolescents by applying multitrajectory group-based modeling. Using seven waves of data from a cohort sequential study spanning the 6th to 12th grades (n = 2,825; 50% girls), we identified four distinct trajectory groups: low risk (33%), declining peer aggressors (44%), peer and dating aggressors (13%), and multidomain high risk (10%). Across all comparisons, girls were more likely than boys to be members of the peer and dating aggressor group and less likely to be members of the multidomain high-risk group. Moreover, individual (self-control, negative emotionality), family (family violence, parental monitoring), and peer (substance use norms) distinguished class membership.
Exploration into biomarker potential of region-specific brain gene co-expression networks

The human brain is a complex organ that consists of several regions each with a unique gene expression pattern. Our intent in this study was to construct a gene co-expression network (GCN) for the normal brain using RNA expression profiles from the Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) project. The brain GCN contains gene correlation relationships that are broadly present in the brain or specific to thirteen brain regions, which we later combined into six overarching brain mini-GCNs based on the brain's structure. Using the expression profiles of brain region-specific GCN edges, we determined how well the brain region samples could be discriminated from each other, visually with t-SNE plots or quantitatively with the Gene Oracle deep learning classifier. Next, we tested these gene sets on their relevance to human tumors of brain and non-brain origin. Interestingly, we found that genes in the six brain mini-GCNs showed markedly higher mutation rates in tumors relative to matched sets of random genes. Further, we found that cortex genes subdivided Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSC) tumors and Pheochromocytoma and Paraganglioma (PCPG) tumors into distinct groups. The brain GCN and mini-GCNs are useful resources for the classification of brain regions and identification of biomarker genes for brain related phenotypes.
Choreographies of Difference-Making

Chapter 3 establishes the discursive frame for a South-South Contemporary Dance. Beginning with a reflection on principles of becoming, that are then linked to meaning-making, signification, and transformation, it suggests that recurrent practices of just world-making, connecting with local ecologies, healing, and spirituality are core to this different choreographic mode. It also reimagines some of the hallmarks of contemporary dance from the perspective of South-South artists, revealing the under-side of the concepts favored by Euro-American constructions. It works through the multi-dimensional work of decolonization that artists must take on as they mark their difference in contemporary dance-making. This chapter argues for the value of aesthetically specific practice, especially in differentiation from the pedestrian vocabulary of postmodern dance. Ultimately, it reflects on the absent communities conjured through such specific practice, and why such invocations are crucial to the justice-based self-definition of contemporary dance and its reconstituted global stage.
RAPID COMMUNICATION Tyrosine Phosphorylation of rasGAP and Associated Proteins in Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia Cell Lines

Abstract The Philadelphia chromosome (Ph1), detected in virtually all cases of chronic myelogenous leukemia, is formed by a reciprocal translocation between chromosomes 9 and 22 that fuses BCR encoded sequences upstream of exon 2 of c-ABL. This oncogene produces a fusion protein (p210BCR/ABL) in which the ABL tyrosine kinase activity is elevated. This elevated kinase activity is essential for transformation, but the mechanisms involved are unknown. We report here that p21ras GTPase activating protein (rasGAP) or rasGAP- associated proteins p190 and p62 are phosphorylated on tyrosine in Ph1 (+) cell lines. Further, rasGAP coimmunopre-cipitates with p210BCR/ABL in these cell lines. These results suggest that rasGAP or associated proteins are potential substrates for p210BCR/ABL kinase and thus directly link p210BCR/ABL with a signal transduction pathway known to be activated by hematopoietic growth factors (p21ras)
Radio-Factor Authentication: Identity Management over the 900MHz Band

Highly sensitive information systems need a simple and secure method of authentication. To supplement standard login procedures, we can implement multiple variations of two-factor authentication through radio waves, based on specific use cases. This allows us to enforce a proximity-based authentication system allowing for a physical separation of users at work and home. We can also ensure fine-grained access control for systems requiring a small number of privileged users. We will demonstrate two possible implementations, both using forms of public-key cryptography. The first scheme broadcasts a time-synchronized token to all available computers in a geographic area, and the second scheme uses public and private key pairs for digitally signed access request over-the-air.
IMPROVING ESTIMATES OF m sin i BY EXPANDING RV DATA SETS

We develop new techniques for estimating the fractional uncertainty () in the projected planetary mass (m sin i) resulting from Keplerian fits to radial-velocity (RV) data sets of known Jupiter-class exoplanets. The techniques include (1) estimating the distribution of m sin i using projection, (2) detecting and mitigating chimeras, a source of systematic error, and (3) estimating the reduction in the uncertainty in m sin i if hypothetical observations were made in the future. We demonstrate the techniques on a representative set of RV exoplanets, known as the Sample of 27, which are candidates for detection and characterization by a future astrometric direct imaging mission. We estimate the improvements (reductions) in due to additional, hypothetical RV measurements obtained in the future. We encounter and address a source of systematic error, "chimeras," which can appear when multiple types of Keplerian solutions are compatible with a single data set.
Covid19 impact screening of patients undergoing medication treatment for opioid use disorder.

Populations with addiction are considered at-risk for both medical and financial effects of the COVID19 outbreak. Patients receiving medication treatment for opioid use disorder (MOUD) were screene...
Energy levels of 247 Cm populated in the α decay of 251 98 Cf

$\ensuremath{\alpha}$-Particle, conversion-electron, and $\ensuremath{\gamma}$-ray singles spectra of $^{251}\mathrm{Cf}$ sources containing few Bq activities were measured with high-resolution semiconductor detectors. $\ensuremath{\alpha}\text{\ensuremath{-}}\ensuremath{\gamma}$ coincidence and level half-life measurements were also performed. On the basis of these measurements the following single-particle states have been identified in $^{247}\mathrm{Cm}$: $9∕{2}^{\ensuremath{-}}[734]$, 0 keV; $5∕{2}^{+}[622]$, 227.4 keV; $7∕{2}^{+}[624]$, 285.4 keV; $1∕{2}^{+}[620]$, 404.9 keV; $1∕{2}^{+}[631]$, $518.6\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\text{keV}$. The measured single-particle energies are in good agreement with energies calculated with a Woods-Saxon single-particle potential. From the measured half-life of the $227.4\text{\ensuremath{-}}\text{keV}$ level and the $E3$ branching ratio, a $B(E3)$ value of $5\phantom{\rule{0.3em}{0ex}}\text{W.u.}$ has been deduced between the $5∕{2}^{+}[622]$ and $9∕{2}^{\ensuremath{-}}[734]$ bands. The large $B(E3)$ value is an indication of octupole mixing in the $227.4\text{\ensuremath{-}}\text{keV}$ level.
Patient perceptions of safety in primary care: a qualitative study to inform care.

Patients’ perspectives on patient safety have rarely been incorporated into quality initiatives in primary care. Our objective was to understand the patient perspective on patient safety in patient...
Launching Graduate Student Writing Groups: Developing A Context-Specific Plan

Location: Dewberry Hall Advanced academic writing can be a challenging, laborious, and lonely activity, especially for graduate students who are still learning the norms of their academic communities, but at the same time are expected to write skillfully and extensively in their programs. Lack of confidence and productivity in writing may play a role in extending time to degree or hindering degree completion (Council of Graduate Schools, 2007).One source for supporting graduate student writers outside of the classroom is writing groups. Motivated by theories of situated learning (Lave & Wenger, 1991) and peer collaboration (Ferris & Hedgecock, 2005; Liu & Hansen, 2002), writing groups provide opportunities for discussing and practicing disciplinary conventions, providing and receiving productive feedback, and engaging in informal mentoring (Simpson, 2019). In addition to professional development opportunities, groups can also improve students’ motivation, help them deal with procrastination, and provide psychological peer support (Hixson et al., 2016; Starke-Meyerring, 2014). These advantages in turn can lead to a greater academic success and the sense of belonging in an academic community. While graduate writing groups have been extensively sponsored by writing centers across the country, including Mason’s Writing Center, student-led writing groups also provide a strong model for enhancing productivity, developing professional skills, and supporting degree completion. Faculty advisors can be instrumental, however, in initiating and launching such groups among their students and advisees (Hixson et al., 2016).The purpose of this poster presentation is to provide faculty, including advisors and program directors, with resources for establishing writing groups among their students and advisees. After introducing different types of groups, including accountability, feedback, and write-together groups, we will discuss the stages of initiating a writing group. These stages include 1) deciding on the format most suitable, given student priorities; 2) planning logistics (e.g., time, space, basic rules) and determining the role that the faculty will play initially; and 3) determining how to position students to take the lead as they move forward. Each stage will include a set of heuristic questions for the faculty to consider in order to create a specific plan for establishing groups in their contexts. While this poster presentation presumes an audience of graduate advisors, graduate writers themselves, as well as faculty who oversee undergraduate research projects, may also find this presentation relevant. Participants will be able to select an appropriate model for a writing group, specific to their context, and begin developing a plan for launching and sustaining such a group.
Enteric Pathogens and Carbapenem Resistance Genes are Widespread in the Fecal Contaminated Soils of Cattle Farms in the United States

Abstract Cattle farming is considered a major contributor to antibiotic resistant (AR) genes and bacteria in nearby environments, predominantly due to the large amount of manure released by cattle to soils. This study sought to compare soil within and outside of cattle pens from seven farms in the US. Soil microbial community differences are described, as well as differences in AR gene and enteric pathogen concentrations in the soils. Sources of fecal loading are quantified via microbial source tracking (MST) methods. The family Peptostreptococcaceae was more abundant in pen soils, and Rhodanobacteraceae was more abundant in non-pen soils. There were no differences in microbial community diversity between soils within and outside of cattle pens. The MST result showed that ruminant-specific fecal contamination (Rum2Bac) was abundant both in pen and non-pen soils, likely indicating heavy cattle fecal loading. However, the soil within cattle pens had higher levels of Campylobacter, Salmonella, and AR genes for resistance to sulfonamides (sul1) and carbapenems (KPC) than the soil outside of pens (p
Historical Registry of Our Families Through Textiles

Dress provides an insight into a person’s value system, as well into the state of the socioeconomic environment of the time. The purpose of this paper is to describe the design of a mobile application and website where users of all walks-of-life can document their heritage by capturing photographs of family members’ clothing throughout their lifetimes. Dress evokes memories, feelings of nostalgia, and speaks volumes about a person’s personal history and heritage. This application will allow each and every person who logs on and participates to document their lives and the important role dress plays in their lives, whether they are rich and famous or not. This will enable the creation of a large archive of information representing all of the populace, not just the rich and famous, for future research based on the subjects’ own words and visuals.
Classifications of Recurrence Relations via Subclasses of ( H , m )-quasiseparable Matrices

The results on characterization of orthogonal polynomials and Szego polynomials via tridiagonal matrices and unitary Hessenberg matrices, respectively, are classical. In a recent paper we observed that tridiagonal matrices and unitary Hessenberg matrices both belong to a wider class of \((H,1)\)-quasiseparable matrices and derived a complete characterization of the latter class via polynomials satisfying certain EGO-type recurrence relations. We also established a characterization of polynomials satisfying three-term recurrence relations via \((H,1)\)-well-free matrices and of polynomials satisfying the Szego-type two-term recurrence relations via \((H,1)\)-semiseparable matrices. In this paper we generalize all of these results from \(scalar\) (H,1) to the block (H, m) case. Specifically, we provide a complete characterization of \((H,\,m)\)-quasiseparable matrices via polynomials satisfying \(block\) EGO-type two-term recurrence relations. Further, \((H,\,m)\)-semiseparable matrices are completely characterized by the polynomials obeying \(block\) Szego-type recurrence relations. Finally, we completely characterize polynomials satisfying m-term recurrence relations via a new class of matrices called \((H,\,m)\)-well-free matrices.
Essays of a peripheral mind: Nei4 Meng2gu3, Zhong1 Guo2.

Essays of a peripheral mind: Nei4 Meng2gu3, Zhong1 Guo2 DOI:10.2458/azu_rangelands_v29i5_havstad
Response to Esteve-Gassent et al.: flaB sequences obtained from Texas PCR products are identical to the positive control strain Borrelia burgdorferi B31

Feria-Arroyo et al. had reported previously that, based on PCR analysis, 45 % of Ixodes scapularis ticks collected in Texas and Mexico were infected with the Lyme disease spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi (Parasit. Vectors 2014, 7:199). However, our analyses of their initial data (Parasit. Vectors 2014, 7:467) and a recent response by Esteve-Gassent et al. (Parasit. Vectors 2015, 8:129) provide evidence that the positive PCR results obtained from both ribosomal RNA intergenic sequences and the flagellin gene flaB are highly likely due to contamination by the B. burgdorferi B31 positive control strain.
Satellite ocean color assessment of air‐sea fluxes of CO2 in a river‐dominated coastal margin

Quantification of the contributions of river-influenced margins to regional CO 2 fluxes is difficult due to the high degree of spatial and temporal variability in these regions. We describe an algorithm for assessment of surface water partial pressure of CO 2 (pCO 2 ) from MODIS imagery in the northern Gulf of Mexico. Principal component analysis and multiple regression were used to relate surface pCO 2 to environmental variables (T, S, chlorophyll). Subsequent retrieval of corresponding products from MODIS-Aqua L1B data permitted the assessment of regional distributions of pCO 2 . An area of low pCO 2 was evident in the vicinity of the Mississippi River delta, consistent with field observations. Regional surface air to sea fluxes of CO 2 were estimated as 2.0-4.2 mmol C m -2 d -1 .
En face Doppler total retinal blood flow measurement with 70 kHz spectral optical coherence tomography

An automated algorithm was developed for total retinal blood flow (TRBF) using 70-kHz spectral optical coherence tomography (OCT). The OCT was calibrated for the transformation from Doppler shift to speed based on a flow phantom. The TRBF scan pattern contained five repeated volume scans (2 x 2 mm) obtained in 3 s and centered on central retinal vessels in the optic disc. The TRBF was calculated using an en face Doppler technique. For each retinal vein, blood flow was measured at an optimal plane where the calculated flow was maximized. The TRBF was calculated by summing flow in all veins. The algorithm tracked vascular branching so that either root or branch veins are summed, but never both. The TRBF in five repeated volumes were averaged to reduce variation due to cardiac cycle pulsation. Finally, the TRBF was corrected for eye length variation. Twelve healthy eyes and 12 glaucomatous eyes were enrolled to test the algorithm. The TRBF was 45.4 ± 6.7 μl/min for healthy control and 34.7 ± 7.6 μl/min for glaucomatous participants (p-value = 0.01). The intravisit repeatability was 8.6% for healthy controls and 8.4% for glaucoma participants. The proposed automated method provided repeatable TRBF measurement.
Human Papillomavirus Can Escape Immune Recognition through Langerhans Cell Phosphoinositide 3-Kinase Activation

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection of cervical epithelium is linked to the generation of cervical cancer. Although most women infected with HPV clear their lesions, the long latency period from infection to resolution indicates that HPV evolved immune escape mechanisms. Dendritic cells, which are targeted by vaccination procedures, incubated with HPV virus-like particles induce an HPV-specific immune response. Langerhans cells (LC), which are located at the sites of primary infection, do not induce a response implicating the targeting of LC as an immune escape mechanism used by HPV. LC incubated with HPV virus-like particles up-regulate the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3-K) pathway and down-regulate MAPK pathways. With the inhibition of PI3-K and incubation with HPV virus-like particles, LC initiate a potent HPV-specific response. PI3-K activation in LC defines a novel escape mechanism used by HPV, and PI3-K inhibition may serve as an effective clinical target to enhance HPV immunity.
Analysis of the Critical Domain in the V3 Loop of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 gp120 Involved in CCR5 Utilization

Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection of CD4+ lymphocytes and macrophages involves interaction of the surface subunit of the envelope protein (gp120) with coreceptors. Isolates have been found with specific tropism for macrophages and/or T-cell lines, through the utilization of chemokine receptor CCR5 (R5) or CXCR4 (X4). The third hypervariable loop (V3 loop) of gp120 is the major determinant of tropism. Using chimeric envelopes between HXB2 (X4) and ADA (R5), we found that the C-terminal half of the V3 loop was sufficient to confer on HXB2 the ability to infect CCR5-expressing cells. A sequence motif was identified at positions 289 to 292 allowing 30% of wild-type levels of infection, whereas full activity was achieved with the conversion of Lys to Glu at position 287 in addition to the above motif. Moreover, V3 loops from either SF2 (X4R5) or SF162 (R5) also allowed infection of CCR5-expressing cells, supporting the importance of V3 loops in influencing CCR5 utilization. The effects of amino acid changes at position 287 on the level of infection via CCR5 showed that negatively charged residues (Glu and Asp) were optimal for efficient interaction whereas only bulky hydrophobic residues drastically reduced infection. In addition, sequences at the N terminus of the V3 loop independently modulated the level of infection via CCR5. This study also examined the susceptibility of chimeric envelopes to neutralization by anticoreceptor antibodies and suggested the presence of differential interaction between the chimeric envelopes and CCR5. These findings highlight the critical residues in the V3 loop that mediate HIV-1 infection.
CATALYTIC UNIT OF ADENYLATE CYCLASE: REDUCED ACTIVITY IN AGED-HUMAN LYMPHOCYTES

Lymphocyte adenylate cylase activity is reduced in aging man, despite unaltered beta-adrenergic receptor characteristics. To define the component of human lymphocyte adenylate cyclase which is reduced in aging, we assessed nucleotide-regulatory protein (N-protein) function by complementation of eye- S49 mouse lymphoma cells and catalytic unit activity by forskolin stimulation. Within the enzyme complex, N-protein function is unchanged, while catalytic unit activity is 3.6 fold greater in young than elderly. The decreased responsiveness to catecholamines seen in aging man may be due, in some tissues, to reduced adenylate cyclase activity, specifically, the catalytic unit of the enzyme complex.
Social Decentering and Locus of Control in Children

Summary Relationships between social decentering, personality variables, and social competence were investigated for children attending a seven-week therapeutic summer camp. Ss were 23 males and females ranging in age from 10 to 13 years who had been referred to the camp because they lacked age-appropriate social skills. Feffer's Role Taking Task was used to measure social decentering, and counselor ratings of camper adjustment were measures of social competence. Predicted positive relationships between decentering and competence were found. Striking sex differences were found, however, when comparisons were made between social decentering and two personality variables—the Nowicki-Strickland Locus of Control Scale and the Kiddie Mach. Predicted negative correlations were found between Role Taking Task scores and externality and machiavellianism for females, but not for males. Implications concerning age by sex interactions in the study of personality correlates of social decentering were discussed.
A Critique of “In Search of Token Women in Academia”

The research of Young, MacKenzie, & Sherif (1980), designed to test Laws' (1975) analysis of token women in academia, is criticized on several methodological and conceptual grounds. The appropriateness of the study as a test of Laws' theory is questioned since no evidence is offered for the validity of the independent variables as measures of tokenism. Alternative explanations for their data, centering primarily on generational differences in attitudes and values, are examined briefly.
Translation-invariant optical pattern recognition without correlation

Most optical pattern recognition techniques rely on correlation that inherently achieves translation invariance. We introduce a signifi- cantly different formulation for image recognition in which a set of inner product operators are used to achieve translation-invariant pattern rec- ognition. Our formulation extends the distortion-invariant linear phase coefficient composite filter family, developed by Hassebrook et al., into a set of translation-invariant inner product operators. Translation invari- ance is achieved by treating 2-D translation as distortion. The magni- tudes of the inner product operations are insensitive to translation, whereas the phase responses vary, but are discarded. For large images containing many objects, this method can be applied by tiling the 2-D operators to the test image size, elementwise multiplying by the test image, and then convolving with a binary rectangular window. Impres- sive numerical efficiency, exceeding that of fast Fourier transform-based techniques, is attained by the inner product operator approach. Ex- amples of our approach, distortion-invariant detection and discrimination capabilities, idealized optical implementation, and comparison with con- ventional matched filters are presented. © 1996 Society of Photo-Optical Instru- mentation Engineers.
Grafting of Vinyl Monomers onto Nylon

Abstract Polymer chemists have been successful in applying polymerization techniques to develop copolymers of natural and synthetic macromolecules [l]. The literature abounds with examples of the successful formation of copolymers from natural and synthetic macromolecules [2–5]. Copolymerization is attractive to chemists as a means of modifying macromolecules since, in general, degradation can be minimized. Despite the heterogeneity and complexity of these copolymers, much has been achieved in their characterization. The desirable properties of the polymer are retained and additional properties are acquired through the added polymer. The desired material may be formed in situ by polymerization of a monomer or monomers, by condensation of reactants, or by the decomposition of a preformed polymer.
Protein analysis by membrane preconcentration–capillary electrophoresis: systematic evaluation of parameters affecting preconcentration and separation

Abstract Fast and efficient analysis of proteins in physiological fluids is of great interest to researchers and clinicians alike. Capillary electrophoresis (CE) has proven to be a potentially valuable tool for the separation of proteins in specimens. However, a generally acknowledged drawback of this technique is the limited sample volumes which can be loaded onto the CE capillary which results in a poor concentration limit of detection. In addition, matrix components in samples may also interfere with separation and detection of analytes. Membrane preconcentration–CE (mPC–CE) has proved to be effective in overcoming these problems. In this report, we describe the systematic evaluation of parameters affecting on-line preconcentration/clean-up and separation of protein mixtures by mPC–CE. Method development was carried out with a standard mixture of proteins (lysozyme, myoglobin, carbonic anhydrase, and human serum albumin). First, using MALDI-TOF-MS, membrane materials with cation-exchange (R-SO 3 H) or hydrophobic (C 2 , C 8 , C 18 , SDB) characteristics were evaluated for their potential to retain proteins in mPC cartridges. Hydrophobic membranes were found most suitable for this application. Next, all mPC–CE analysis of protein samples were performed in polybrene coated capillaries and parameters affecting sample loading, washing and elution, such as the composition and volume of the elution solvent were investigated. Furthermore, to achieve optimal mPC–CE performance for the separation of protein mixtures parameters affecting postelution focusing and electrophoresis, including the composition of the background electrolyte and a trailing stacking buffer were varied. Optimal conditions for mPC–CE analysis of proteins using a C 2 impregnated membrane preconcentration (mPC) cartridge were achieved with a background electrolyte of 5% acetic acid and 2 m M ammonium acetate, 60 nl of 80% acetonitrile in H 2 O as an elution solvent, and 60 nl of 0.5% ammonium hydroxide as a trailing stacking buffer. The developed method was used successfully to separate proteins in aqueous humor, which contains numerous proteins in a complex matrix of salts.
1,2-Bis[N-(N′-alkylimidazolium)]ethane salts as new guests for crown ethers and cryptands

Abstract 1,2-Bis[N-(N′-alkylimidazolium)ethane salts form complexes presumed to be pseudorotaxanes with crown ether and cryptand hosts. The association constants of 1,2-bis[N-(N′-butylimidazolium)]ethane bis(hexafluorophosphate) with dibenzo-24-crown-8 and a dibenzo-24-crown-8-based pyridyl cryptand were estimated as 24 (±1) and 348 (±30) M−1, respectively, in acetonitrile at 25 °C. The pseudorotaxane-like structure of the 1:2 complex of the N′-methyl analog with the cryptand was observed by X-ray crystallography. Replacement of the ethylene spacer with propylene and butylene spacers resulted in Ka values an order of magnitude smaller.
Learning together, growing apart: global warming, energy policy and international trust.

Abstract Standard models of uncertainty in economics imply that sharing information can reduce uncertainty and help identify welfare improving policies. In international relations, “epistemic communities” of scientists are thought to help provide information for these purposes. However, conflicting preferences can frustrate the transmission of information and prevent effective information sharing. In addition, opportunities for information sharing can deepen distrust as actors observe each other's reaction to what to them is credible information. A model that assumes uncertainty both about the state of the world and the parties’ motivations is applied to international climate change negotiations.
Economic Liberalization and Rising College Premiums in Mexico: A Reinterpretation

Mexico’s college premium rose in the 1990s. Studies employing structural decomposition analyses treat the college premium as the relative price of “skilled” to “unskilled” workers. They find that reallocations of labor across industries and occupations cannot account for rising college premiums, and often attribute them to widely observed trade-induced increases in skills demand within the manufacturing sector. In contrast, using a reduced-form decomposition that moves beyond a binary definition of skill and allows for inter-occupation wage differentials, we show that employment shifts across occupations and industries can account for the increase in the college premium. We link the rising premium, and differences in its trajectory by gender and cohort, to the growth of specific professions that produce services, not manufactured goods.
Photonic true time delay module for high-frequency broadband phased array antenna

A 2D true-time delay (TTD) module for phased-array antennas (PAAs) is presented, which is based on substrate-guided wave elements. We use substrates of different thickness to get time delays as small as needed. We also use coated wedge to substitute input hologram element to decrease losses up to 60%. Also, a step is designed to obtain 0 degree steering which is impossible for packaging in the previous design. We designed special delay steps to avoid the side lobe caused by the limitation of the distance between adjacent antenna elements. The simulation results were given for the far- field radiation pattern of PAA controlled by this module. Experimental results of the TTD module are shown in both 2D and 3D images.
Time-resolved fluorescence imaging and background rejection by two-photon excitation in laser-scanning microscopy

A new dimension in quantitative fluorescence microscopy may be accessed by imaging of fluorescence decay times. To obtain spatially resolved information from microscopic sample locations, one must not only have sufficient optical resolution and detection sensitivity but also the ability to exclude fluorescence photons originating from outside the focal volume of interest. This background rejection is measured by the signal-to-background ratio, which must be large if three-dimensional information is to be obtained from a thick fluorescence sample. Two-photon excitation in laser scanning microscopy has an unparalleled ability to meet these demands. The two-photon excitation of a transition normally in the ultraviolet arises from the simultaneous non-linear absorption of two red photons. Because two-photon excitation depends on the square of the incident intensity, the resulting fluorescence is limited to the focal volume where the photon density of the focused laser illumination is high. This localization limits photobleaching and any photodamage to the focal plane of the image. This property is a major advantage over widefield or confocal microscopy. Two-photon excitation provides the depth discrimination associated with confocal microscopy without a confocal spatial filter, an advantage which allows for major simplifications of the apparatus. The resolution and background rejection properties of two-photon excitation have been calculated and measured, and have been shown to be identical to an ideal confocal microscope with the same optical wavelengths. Combined, these properties provide the ideal conditions for time-resolved imaging of fluorescence decay dynamics in order to characterize the submicroscopic environment of the fluorophore molecules within the specimen. A preliminary apparatus was designed and built to test these concepts, and it was found that fluorescence decay time images of living cells can be conveniently recorded with diffraction limited resolution in a few seconds of image acquisition time.