cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Impacts of State Growth Management Programmes: A Comparative Analysis:

This paper examines the impact that alternative state planning frameworks have on five dimensions of urban development: density, the spatial extent of urbanised land area, property value, public ex...
Rapid prototyping on the Georgia Tech digital signal multiprocessor

Signal processing supercomputers consisting of multiple programmable digital signal processors offer impressive computational performance while retaining flexibility of programming. The single most important factor limiting their performance has been the lack of a sophisticated software compiling and scheduling environment. Three generations of digital signal multiprocessors (DSMPs) have been designed at the DSP Laboratory at Georgia Tech in the past decade. The authors develop and discuss the schedulers developed for the Georgia Tech DSMP (I-III), and present new techniques that combine a high level description of DSPs together with a theoretical analysis of the performance bounds on synchronous multiprocessors to deliver a significant improvement in the efficiency of prototyping. The DSMP-C1 prototyping environment is presented in some detail, and its superior performance on digital signal processing applications relative to conventional schedulers is demonstrated. >
PERFORMANCE-DERIVED BEHAVIOR VOCABULARIES: DATA-DRIVEN ACQUISITION OF SKILLS FROM MOTION

Control for and interaction with humanoid robots is often restrictive due to limitations of the robot platform and the high dimensionality of controlling systems with many degrees of freedom. We focus on the problem of providing a "skill-level interface" for a humanoid robot. Such an interface serves as (i) a modular foundation for structuring task-oriented control, (ii) a parsimonious abstraction of motor-level control (e.g. PD-servo control), and (iii) a means for grounding interactions between humans and robots through common skill vocabularies. Our approach to constructing skill-level interfaces is two-fold. First, we propose a representation for a skill-level interface as a "behavior vocabulary," a repertoire of modular exemplar-based memory models expressing kinematic motion. A module in such a vocabulary encodes a flow field (or gradient field) in joint angle space that describes the "flow" of kinematic motion for a particular skill-level behavior, enabling prediction from a given kinematic configuration. Second, we propose a data-driven method for deriving behavior vocabularies from time-series data of human motion using spatio-temporal dimension reduction and clustering. Results from evaluating an implementation of our methodology are presented along with the application of derived behavior vocabularies as predictors towards on-line humanoid trajectory formation and off-line motion synthesis.
Silicic acid-impregnated glass-paper chromatography of phosphatides

Abstract A detailed quantitative chromatographic procedure is presented for the separation and determination of phosphatidyl inositol, sphingomyelin, phosphatidyl choline, phosphatidyl serine and phosphatidyl ethanolamine. Glass paper impregnated with silicic acid and a four-component solvent system (diisobutylketone-acetic acid-water-benzene (160:50:8:7, v/v)) was used. the method is rapid, simple and could be applied to several tissues and gives complete separation of the various phosphatides.
Unknowable truths and omniscience: a reply to Kvanvig

Jonathan Kvanvig affirme la coherence de l'omniscience divine mais refuse l'existence non seulement de verites inconnaissables mais egalement de verites insaisissables. L'A. emet des reserves sur la maniere dont, en general, on rend compte de l'aspect limite ou illimite de l'omniscience dans la litterature. Dans un premier temps, il reprend les arguments de Kvanvig et dans un deuxieme temps analyse en detail son refus des verites inconnaissables
The orphan protein bis-γ-glutamylcystine reductase joins the pyridine nucleotide disulfide reductase family.

Massive genome sequencing efforts in recent years have contributed millions of sequences to genomic databases. Functions for the vast majority of these sequences have been predicted computationally based upon sequence similarities to other proteins and a variety of other genomic clues such as genome context and phylogenetic profiling.1–3 Computational annotations are usually accurate at the superfamily level. However, predictions of specific functions are often wrong. As a result of mis-annotation and subsequent transfer of erroneous annotations, the database is littered with incorrect assignments of function.4 On the other side of the picture, there are a number of “orphan” proteins for which functions are known but for which the corresponding genes have not been identified.5–8 Bis-γ-glutamylcystine reductase (GCR) is one of these orphan proteins. GCR from Halobacterium halobium was purified and characterized by Sundquist and Fahey in 1988.9 The enzyme catalyzes the reaction shown in Figure 1, which is similar to that catalyzed by the well-studied enzyme glutathione reductase. Bis-γ-glutamylcystine (γ-Glu-Cys), which lacks the glycine moiety of glutathione, is a major intracellular thiol in halobacteria, Archaea that are adapted for life in high-salt environments. Maintenance of reduced γ-Glu-Cys in halobacteria requires GCR. Here we report the identification of the gene encoding GCR in Halobacterium sp. NRC-1. The enzyme is mis-annotated as a mercuric reductase. GCR belongs to the pyridine nucleotide disulfide reductase family, and is found only in halobacteria. However, some halobacteria lack GCR, suggesting that there is diversity with respect to mechanisms for maintaining the redox state of the cytoplasm and protection against oxidative damage even within the Halobacterium clade. Figure 1 The reaction catalyzed by bis-γ-glutamylcystine reductase (GCR).
δ30Si systematics in a granitic saprolite, Puerto Rico

Granite weathering and clay mineral formation impart distinct and interpretable stable Si isotope (δ 30 Si) signatures to their solid and aqueous products. Within a saprolite, clay minerals have δ 30 Si values ∼2.0‰ more negative than their parent mineral and the δ 30 Si signature of the bulk solid is determined by the ratio of primary to secondary minerals. Mineral-specific weathering reactions predominate at different depths, driving changes in differing δ 30 Si pore water values. At the bedrock-saprolite interface, dissolution of plagioclase and hornblende creates δ 30 Si pore water signatures more positive than granite by up to 1.2‰; these reactions are the main contributor of Si to stream water and determine its δ 30 Si value. Throughout the saprolite, biotite weathering releases Si to pore waters but kaolinite overgrowth formation modulates its contribution to pore-water Si. The influence of biotite on δ 30 Si pore water is greatest near the bedrock where biotite-derived Si mixes with bulk pore water prior to kaolinite formation. Higher in the saprolite, biotite grains have become more isolated by kaolinite overgrowth, which consumes biotite-derived Si that would otherwise influence δ 30 Si pore water . Because of this isolation, which shifts the dominant source of pore-water Si from biotite to quartz, δ 30 Si pore water values are more negative than granite by up to 1.3‰ near the top of the saprolite.
Osmotic Homeostasis in Dictyostelium Discoideum: Excretion of Amino Acids and Ingested Solutes

The response to osmotic stress in axenically cultured Dictyostelium discoideum was examined. Hypoosmotic buffers elicited two changes in the large (approximately 50 mM) cytosolic pool of amino acids: a) the total size of the pool diminished, while b) about half of the initial pool was excreted. Hyperosmotic stress had the opposite effect. Among the predominant amino acids in the pool were glycine, alanine and proline. Putrescine, the major diamine, was neither excreted nor modulated. Recently ingested radioactive amino acids were excreted in preference to those in the cytoplasm, suggesting that the endocytic pathway might be involved in water excretion. Furthermore, hypoosmotic stress stimulated the selective excretion of small, membrane-impermeable fluorescent dyes which had been ingested into endocytic vacuoles. Caffeine inhibited the excretion of the fluorophores but not the amino acids. We conclude that the response of Dictyostelium to osmotic stress is complex and includes both modulation of the cytoplasmic amino acid pool and the excretion of amino acids and other small solutes from the endocytic pathway.
New Tricks for Old Dogs: Nonthrombotic Effects of Thrombin in Vessel Wall Biology

Thrombin is a serine protease that potently activates platelets and catalyzes the conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin. Thrombin also exerts direct effects on vascular cells, such as smooth muscle cells, via interactions with members of the protease-activated receptor family. Evidence in several animal models implicates thrombin-mediated signaling events in the response to injury that typifies vascular lesion formation in atherosclerosis and restenosis. In this review, we examine the activation of protease-activated receptors by thrombin, the downstream signaling events mediated by these receptors, and the physiological role of thrombin in vascular cells and vascular disease.
Solitary bone plasmacytoma: management of isolated local relapse following radiotherapy

Radiotherapy is the prime treatment modality for solitary plasmacytomas of bone (SPB). Although local control rates are excellent, progression to multiple myeloma is frequent, albeit with varying latency. Local failure in the absence of dissemination is rare and thus management is poorly documented. We discuss such a patient who presented 3 years after local radiation for a pelvic SPB and review the relevant literature. Radiation doses, portals employed and prognostic factors that may predict progression to myeloma are discussed. This report shows that an isolated recurrence of SPB in a previously irradiated field was successfully treated with orthopaedic surgery. This resulted in good pain relief and mobility for the patient, who remains free of disease 6 months after operation.
Accentuate The Negative: The Positive Effects Of Negative Acknowledgment

Three studies investigated the capacity of negative acknowledgment, the admission of an unfavorable quality, to elicit relatively positive responses. In Study 1, an acknowledgment that a written paragraph was confusing led individuals to rate the paragraph as clearer than they did when no acknowledgment was offered. In Study 2, a foreign speaker was rated as possessing a clearer voice when he acknowledged his strong accent than when he did not. In Study 3, a hypothetical college applicant's acknowledgment of receiving less than stellar high school grades resulted in a more positive evaluation of those grades. The interpersonal risks and benefits of negative acknowledgment as an impression-management strategy are discussed.
Signal processing using MHDL

MHDL (MMIC hardware description language) is a new language created for the behavioral description of state-of-the-art microwave hardware. A microwave communication system includes both continuous time and discrete time processing subsystems. MHDL includes a number of novel features; some of these features are of direct use in the specification of both continuous time and discrete time signal processing. MHDL includes data types complex and z that find direct use in signal processing applications. The article describes the use of MHDL in the description of signal processing algorithms.
Molecular control of mitochondrial function in developing rhesus monkey oocytes and preimplantation-stage embryos

The mitochondrion undergoes significant functional and structural changes, as well as an increase in number, during preimplantation embryonic development. The mitochondrion generates ATP and regulates a range of cellular processes, such as signal transduction and apoptosis. Therefore, mitochondria contribute to overall oocyte quality and embryo developmental competence. The present study identified, for the first time, the detailed temporal expression of mRNAs related to mitochondrial biogenesis in rhesus monkey oocytes and embryos. Persistent expression of maternally encoded mRNAs was observed, in combination with transcriptional activation and mRNA accumulation at the eight-cell stage, around the time of embryonic genome activation. The expression of these transcripts was significantly altered in oocytes and embryos with reduced developmental potential. In these embryos, most maternally encoded transcripts were precociously depleted. Embryo culture and specific culture media affected the expression of some of these transcripts, including a deficiency in the expression of key transcriptional regulators. Several genes involved in regulating mitochondrial transcription and replication are similarly affected by in vitro conditions and their downregulation may be instrumental in maintaining the mRNA profiles of mitochondrially encoded genes observed in the present study. These data support the hypothesis that the molecular control of mitochondrial biogenesis, and therefore mitochondrial function, is impaired in in vitro-cultured embryos. These results highlight the need for additional studies in human and non-human primate model species to determine how mitochondrial biogenesis can be altered by oocyte and embryo manipulation protocols and whether this affects physiological function in progeny.
Prehistoric anthropogenic wildland burning by hunter-gatherer societies in the temperate regions: A net source, sink, or neutral to the global carbon budget?

Abstract There is a need for more intensive multi-disciplinary study of prehistoric “hunter-gatherer” burning patterns in temperate regions. California is presented as a case study to demonstrate how powerful, effective, and widely employed fire was in the native repertoire for directly manipulating the wildland environment. It is highly likely that the magnitude of burning in other temperate regions as well as in California, has been underestimated by anthropologists. A methodological approach to better define the broad outlines of anthropogenic wildland burning patterns in various regions of North America, at the point of Euro-American contact, is put forth. Regional studies which revaluate the extent to which Native American tribes were an important ecological force in shaping the biotic and physical environment, will have profound implications for contemporary environmental policies to reduce the threat of global warming. It is suggested that physical, social, and biological scientists work together to examine global warming in a broader historical context to include temperate wildland burning by prehistoric peoples and explore its contribution as a net source, sink, or neutral to the global carbon budget.
Introduction: Perspectives on Human Papillomavirus Infection

Advances in virology and epidemiologic research have increased recognition of the clinical importance of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Most HPV infections are subclinical and asymptomatic; when clinical manifestations do occur, they usually take the form of benign skin lesions, which are very common. HPV also has a nefarious side, however. HPV-associated genital warts can cause significant discomfort, psychological distress, and, in some cases, loss of sexual function. HPV infection that takes the visible form of anogenital warts is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases in the United States. Of even greater concern are the rare cases of malignant transformation of HPV-associated lesions. The link between HPV and neoplasia has been most thoroughly studied in women with cervical cancer, but HPV can cause other malignancies in the anogenital region, as well as in disparate parts of the body. The high prevalence of HPV infections and their potential for malignancy combine to make HPV a pathogen worthy of serious clinical concern. The articles in this supplement discuss both the virologic and clinical aspects of HPV-associated disease, with an emphasis on genital warts. There are now u80 HPV types, with more recognized every year. Cloning of the HPV genome has significantly expanded our knowledge of the gene products involved in infection. In particular, these studies have identified the E6 and E7 gene products as those involved in the malignant transformation of cells. Epidemiologic studies of HPV genital tract infections are complicated by a number of factors, including the lack of a reliable database and the absence of clinical manifestations in many patients. Nevertheless, it is clear that HPV genital tract infections are highly prevalent. It is estimated that genital warts affect approximately 1% of sexually active adults in the United States (almost 1.4 million people), whereas HPV DNA can be detected in about 10–
Phosphoinositide lipid phosphatase SHIP1 and PTEN coordinate to regulate cell migration and adhesion

The second messenger phosphatidylinositol(3,4,5)P3 (PtdIns(3,4,5)P3) is formed by stimulation of various receptors, including G protein-coupled receptors and integrins. The lipid phosphatases PTEN and SHIP1 are critical in regulating the level of PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 dur­ ing chemotaxis. Observations that loss of PTEN had minor and loss of SHIP1 resulted in a severe chemotaxis defect in neutrophils led to the belief that SHIP1 rather than PTEN acts as a predominant phospholipid phosphatase in establishing a PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 compass. In this study, we show that SHIP1 regulates PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 production in response to cell adhesion and plays a limited role when cells are in suspension. SHIP1 −/− neutrophils lose their polarity upon cell adhesion and are extremely adherent, which impairs chemotaxis. However, chemo­ taxis can be restored by reducing adhesion. Loss of SHIP1 elevates Akt activation following cell adhesion due to increased PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 production. From our observations, we con­ clude that SHIP1 prevents formation of top­down PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 polarity to facilitate proper cell attachment and detachment during chemotaxis.
Rapid computation of the amplitude and phase of tightly focused optical fields distorted by scattering particles.

We develop an efficient method for accurately calculating the electric field of tightly focused laser beams in the presence of specific configurations of microscopic scatterers. This Huygens–Fresnel wave-based electric field superposition (HF-WEFS) method computes the amplitude and phase of the scattered electric field in excellent agreement with finite difference time-domain (FDTD) solutions of Maxwell’s equations. Our HF-WEFS implementation is 2–4 orders of magnitude faster than the FDTD method and enables systematic investigations of the effects of scatterer size and configuration on the focal field. We demonstrate the power of the new HF-WEFS approach by mapping several metrics of focal field distortion as a function of scatterer position. This analysis shows that the maximum focal field distortion occurs for single scatterers placed below the focal plane with an offset from the optical axis. The HF-WEFS method represents an important first step toward the development of a computational model of laser-scanning microscopy of thick cellular/tissue specimens.
Shielding effectiveness measurements using the direct illumination technique

The authors discuss the direct illumination and reverberation chamber techniques for measuring shielding effectiveness. Using the reverberation chamber as their reference, they explain the differences between the measurements and corrections applied to the direct illumination technique.
Continuing Education for Electric Power Engineers via Videotape

This paper presents the experiences of the College of Engineering at Iowa State University in the extensive use of videotape courses for continuing education of engineers at electric utility companies. Most of the courses are graduate level courses and are videotaped as they are presented to an on-campus class. The courses may be taken either on a credit or non-credit basis. If the student chooses, he or she may apply for regular admission to the Graduate College. If accepted, the student can work toward a Masters degree. All of the requirements for the degree can be met while the student remains a full-time employee.
Clustering heterogeneous data with mutual semi-supervision

We propose a new methodology for clustering data comprising multiple domains or parts, in such a way that the separate domains mutually supervise each other within a semi-supervised learning framework. Unlike existing uses of semi-supervised learning, our methodology does not assume the presence of labels from part of the data, but rather, each of the different domains of the data separately undergoes an unsupervised learning process, while sending and receiving supervised information in the form of data constraints to/from the other domains. The entire process is an alternation of semi-supervised learning stages on the different data domains, based on Basu et al.'s Hidden Markov Random Fields (HMRF) variation of the K-means algorithm for semi-supervised clustering that combines the constraint-based and distance-based approaches in a unified model. Our experiments demonstrate a successful mutual semi-supervision between the different domains during clustering, that is superior to the traditional heterogeneous domain clustering baselines consisting of converting the domains to a single domain or clustering each of the domains separately.
Elements of Rate Design

Chapter 9 introduces the non-price clauses which frequently are inserted into the rate to modify its price statements. Minimum charges are an example. The chapter also introduces the non-price features of the basic rate design. These design features include, for example, whether the prices are blocked or not (i.e., whether or not different prices are applicable as the volumes taken change) and whether the prices are applicable throughout the system (a “postage stamp” pattern) or vary in different locations in the system (a zone pattern). Finally, the chapter mentions the generalized “fine print” provisions which ordinarily are included in the package of rates as a routine matter.
The relative Abundance of Bacillus coli communis in River Water as an Index of the Self-Purification of Streams.

is polluted with any considerable quantity of fresh sewage it is usually possible to demonstrate the presence of the colon bacillus in such water. Upon these familiar facts have been based vari6us methods and conclusions of greater or less value to public hygiene. The particular method of gauging the so-called self-purification of a stream by the relative abundance of B. coli communis at different points is not a new one, but, so far as the writer is aware, it has not been often applied on a large scale. Theobald Smith's ingenious method of estimating the approximate number of faecal bacteria in water by the fermentation tube was first used in the study of the self-purification problem by Smith and Brown(8). The work of these authors was carried out upon the Mohawk and Hudson Rivers under the auspices of the New York State Board of Health, and aided materially in the solution of local problems. Owing, however, to the relatively low degree of pollution obtaining in these particular river waters, as is shown both by the chlorine determinations and by the small number of faecal bacteria, the contrast between different points along the course of the river is not very marked. Some investigations also have been carried out by Hammerl (4) upon the river Mur above and below Gratz, but the number of this author's determinations, as recorded in his article, are sq few, and his method'
E-Cigarette Awareness and Perceived Harmfulness: Prevalence and Associations with Smoking Cessation Outcomes

Results: Overall, 77% of respondents were aware of e-cigarettes. Of these, 51% believed e-cigarettes were less harmful than cigarettes. Younger, white (compared with Hispanic), more educated respondents and current or former smokers (compared with non-smokers) were more likely to be aware of e-cigarettes. Among those who were aware of e-cigarettes, younger, more educated respondents and current smokers (compared with former and non-smokers) were more likely to believe that e-cigarettes were less harmful. Awareness and perceived harm were not associated with smokers’ past year quit attempts or intention to quit. Conclusions: Overall e-cigarette awareness increased whereas the proportion of smokers who perceived less harm of e-cigarettes declined compared with earlier surveys. However, awareness and perceived harm of e-cigarettes did not show evidence of promoting smoking cessation at the population level.
Sonorheometry assessment of platelet function in cardiopulmonary bypass patients: Correlation of blood clot stiffness with platelet integrin αIIbβ3 activity, aspirin usage, and transfusion risk.

Abstract Background Impaired platelet function may underlie bleeding associated with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and at present is incompletely evaluated with existing diagnostic technologies. Sonorheometry (SR) is a recently developed ultrasound-based technology that quantifies hemostasis and platelet activity from a blood sample by measuring ex vivo clot stiffness (S). We hypothesized that impaired platelet–fibrin interactions as assessed by SR would correlate with transfusion during CPB and history of prior aspirin therapy. Methods Thirty-nine patients undergoing elective cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) were enrolled following informed consent (University of Virginia IRB#14050) in a prospective observational pilot study to assess pre-operative platelet function and transfusion frequency. To assess platelet activity, abciximab was added to blood prior to SR and native S versus abciximab treated S created a differential test for platelet activity. Patient blood samples were activated with kaolin and SR was then used to measure clot stiffness. Patients were transfused with blood products as directed by clinical practice, with the surgical team blinded to SR results. Results Blood clot stiffness with and without abciximab, was compared in a ratio test (S/Sabciximab) named the Platelet Function Index (PFI). PFI was hypothesized to be positively correlated with platelet contributions through integrin αIIbβ3 to clot stiffness. PFI for CPB subjects was lower for those receiving transfusions than those not receiving transfusions (p Conclusion Evaluation of platelet function with SR may help in the specification of blood transfusion needs in cardiac surgery and in the assessment of aspirin effects on risk of surgical bleeding.
Re-Tooling the Rule of Law: Instrumentalism and the Implementation of Humanitarian Law in Failed and Fragile States

This Paper, commissioned by the Program on Humanitarian Policy and Conflcit Resolution at Harvard University as a part of a series on new approaches to the implementation of International Humanitarian Law ("IHL"), will explore possible options for the application and implementation of IHL in contexts of impaired sovereignty. In legal terms, the specific point of entry is provided by Common Article 1 ("CA1") of the Geneva Conventions, which calls on all parties to "respect" and "ensure respect" for international humanitarian law "in all circumstances." This Article will gather what few opinions have been generated from experts in IHL on its applicability and implementation in such circumstances, and contextualize the emergence of "instrumentalist" or "ad hoc" options in light of the textual sources of obligations in the Geneva Conventions. Provisionally, it can be observed that CA1 plays two roles: (I) as an enabling clause linking general obligations in IHL to a range of binding measures and responsible actors as a matter of law; and (II) as a catalyst for novel strategies for implementing legal obligations through various possible instruments and institutions, (e.g. Security Council resolutions, memoranda of understanding, or confidence building measures). In this sense, what can be seen is a potentially supportive relationship between the formal architecture of IHL and the emergence of improvised structures to buttress the Rule of Law. The Working Paper will not be publicly available until 2009 from the Program on Humanitarian Policy and Conflict Resolution (HPCR) at Harvard School of Public Health. Questions and comments may be directed to the author.
C-Axis Oriented Lithium Niobate Films on (001) Magnesium Oxide by Pulsed Laser Deposition

For the first time, epitaxial c-axis oriented lithium niobate (LiNbO3) films were grown on MgO (001) substrates. This orientation is relevant to the monolithic integration of LiNbO3 with GaAs for waveguiding, frequency doubling, and other opto-electronic applications. The epitaxial orientation relationship is (001 ) LiNbO3 parallel to (001) MgO and [100] LiNbO3 parallel to [110] MgO. Four equivalent in-plane orientations were observed, such that the lithium or niobium atoms along the [100] axis of LiNbO3 are bonded to the oxygen atoms on diagonal comers of the MgO unit cell. These epitaxial films were prepared by off-axis pulsed laser deposition at substrate temperatures of 775–800 °C in a 15–50 mTorr mixture of 5% O3 in O2.
Upgrade of a 16-Stage Industrial Compressor: Part II — Extension of the Analysis Method to the Design Function and Results

A retrofit package that includes a slightly larger inlet and new, custom diffusion airfoils (CDA) was designed to replace the 16-stage axial compressor. The method used, and presented here, builds on earlier developments and is an extension of the scheme used to predict the compressor performance (Part I). The use of results from single-row 3D CFD, and their implementation into a streamline curvature (Throughflow) code lead to a better understanding of the compressor performance, which in turn lead to a better model of the compressor. This paper shows how the role of this newly developed model has been modified and adapted to the design environment. The 3D CFD results had previously provided a more accurate representation of deviation and losses, particularly at and near the end walls. The Throughflow code, when re-converged for design purposes, generated a much different solution for the individual streamlines than had been previously calculated using correlation or S1S2 analyses. Consequently, the newly generated boundary conditions for designing the individual stream sections, such as inlet and exit Mach numbers and air angles were also quite different. The designer then embarked on tailoring the individual sections to their respective duties under the guidelines of the newly developed method in true custom diffusion fashion. Iterations were conducted to optimize the section and airfoil shapes taking into consideration 3D effects. The end result was a systematic technique for designing multi-stage axial compressors and generating 3D airfoil shapes. The retrofit compressor upgrade package achieved its performance targets and delivered a measured polytropic efficiency of 93.4%.© 2006 ASME
The Role of ORAI1 in the Odontogenic Differentiation of Human Dental Pulp Stem Cells

Pulp capping, or placing dental materials directly onto the vital pulp tissues of affected teeth, is a dental procedure that aims to regenerate reparative dentin. Several pulp capping materials are clinically being used, and calcium ion (Ca(2+)) released from these materials is known to mediate reparative dentin formation. ORAI1 is an essential pore subunit of store-operated Ca(2+) entry (SOCE), which is a major Ca(2+) influx pathway in most nonexcitable cells. Here, we evaluated the role of ORAI1 in mediating the odontogenic differentiation and mineralization of dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs). During the odontogenic differentiation of DPSCs, the expression of ORAI1 increased in a time-dependent manner. DPSCs knocked down with ORAI1 shRNA (DPSC/ORAI1sh) or overexpressed with dominant negative mutant ORAI1(E106Q) (DPSC/E106Q) exhibited the inhibition of Ca(2+) influx and suppression of odontogenic differentiation and mineralization as demonstrated by alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity/staining as well as alizarin red S staining when compared with DPSCs of their respective control groups (DPSC/CTLsh and DPSC/CTL). The gene expression for odontogenic differentiation markers such as osteocalcin, bone sialoprotein, and dentin matrix protein 1 (DMP1) was also suppressed. When DPSC/CTL or DPSC/E106Q cells were subcutaneously transplanted into nude mice, DPSC/CTL cells induced mineralized tissue formation with significant increases in ALP and DMP1 staining in vivo, whereas DPSC/E106Q cells did not. Collectively, our data showed that ORAI1 plays critical roles in the odontogenic differentiation and mineralization of DPSCs by regulating Ca(2+) influx and that ORAI1 may be a therapeutic target to enhance reparative dentin formation.
Enhancing and tuning phonon transport at vibrationally mismatched solid-solid interfaces

The thermal conductance of interfaces plays a major role in defining the thermal properties of nanostructured materials in which heat transfer is predominantly phonon mediated. Ongoing research has improved the understanding of factors that govern interfacial phonon transport as well as the ability to predict thermal interface conductance. However, despite this progress, the ability to control interface conductance remains a major challenge. In this manuscript, we present a method to enhance and tune thermal interface conductance at vibrationally mismatched solid-solid interfaces. Enhancement is achieved through the insertion of an interfacial film with mediating vibrational properties, such that the vibrational mismatch at the interface is bridged, and consequently, the total interface conductance is enhanced. This phenomena is explored using nonequilibrium molecular dynamics simulations, where the effects of altering the interfacial film thickness, vibrational spectrum, and the temperature of the system are investigated. A systematic study of these pertinent design parameters explores the ability to enhance and tune phonon transport at both ideal (sharp) and nonideal (compositionally disordered) interfaces. Results show that interface conductance can be broadly enhanced by up to 53% in comparison to the vibrationally mismatched baseline interface. Additionally, we find that compositional disorder at an interface does not imply a deterministic change in interface conductance, but instead, that the influence of compositional disorder depends on the characteristics of the disordered region itself. These results, in contrast to macroscopic thermal transport theory, imply that it is possible to increase thermal conductance associated with interface scattering by adding more material along the direction of heat flux.
The Approximation of Logarithmic Numbers

(1957). The Approximation of Logarithmic Numbers. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 64, No. 8P2, pp. 11-18.
Evaluation of mid-term effectiveness of medium-and-long-term programme for prevention and control of schistosomiasis japonica in Hubei province

Objective To evaluate the mid-term effectiveness of the medium-and-long-term programme for prevention and control of schistosomiasis japonica in Hubei Province.Methods The comprehensive measures were carried out in the programme,including the schistosomiasis detection and chemotherapy for residents and livestock,snail control,treatment of advanced schistosomiasis cases,and infectious source control.The mid-term effectiveness of the programme was observed and evaluated.Results The number of 11 063 267 persons lived in endemic area were detected.1 053 051 schistosomiasis patients and 5 055 932 persons with the history of infected water contacting were treated.The number of 1 240 986 cattle raised in endemic area were detected.49 710 positive cattle were treated;800 741 cattle with history of infested water contact were treated.The area with snails control by molluscicides was 98 512.48 hm2,and the area with snails control by environmental modification was 29 899.25 hm2.The infectious source control measures were carried out in 9 pilot villages and 12 heavy epidemic counties(city,area) from 2004 to 2008.To the end of 2008,the province′ s people,livestock(cattle) infection rate dropped to 1.71%,2.20%,respectively;they decreased for 56.15%,64.69% compared to 2004,respectively.The areas with snails fluctuated from 75 469.10 to 79 921.46 hm2 during the period of 2004 to 2008.During these years,the whole province reached the criteria of infection-controlled areas of schistosomiasis.Besides,3 counties reached the criteria of transmission control,and 4 counties reached the criteria of transmission interruption.Conclusion We achieved the goal of medium-and-long-term programme for prevention and control of schistosomiasis japonica in Hubei Province,through the measures of comprehensive strategy of schistosomiasis control.
Gender and duration of disease differentiate responses to rituximab–dexamethasone therapy in adults with immune thrombocytopenia

Adults often develop chronic immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) for which treatment order is uncertain. Rituximab and three cycles of dexamethasone (4R + 3Dex) improve treatment responses and short-term disease control but long-term outcome is not known. In adults with ITP treated with 4R + 3D, we sought long-term outcome and associated prognostic variables. Forty-nine adults treated at Weill-Cornell received 4R + 3Dex. Their clinical characteristics were reviewed. Duration was median time to treatment failure; Kaplan-Meier estimates were developed. Vbeta Tcell receptor (VBTCR) repertoire was obtained after treatment in 36 patients. Patients were adults with ITP 18-64 years old, median age 37. The 27 females were twice as likely to have an ongoing response to 4R + 3Dex (44.1%) as males (19.6%; P = 0.009). For ITP duration 12 months (P = 0.02). Females with ITP duration of <12 months had continuing responses in 78.6%, compared to males with <12 months duration of ITP (21.2%). For patients with disease duration <12 months, 67% of females had continuing responses, compared to 31% of males (P = 0.004). Post-treatment polyclonal VBTCR was seen in 9/10 continuing responders (six female, three male) but only 13/26 relapsers/nonresponders (P = 0.068). Durable remissions after treatment with 4R + 3Dex were more frequent in female patients with <12 months of ITP duration and those with polyclonal VBTCR after treatment, emphasizing the roles of duration of disease, gender and T cells in chronic ITP. Differences in pathophysiology of ITP by gender and by duration of ITP require further study. Am. J. Hematol. 91:907-911, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Epidemiology of Pulmonary Hypertension in Left Heart Disease

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) in the setting of left side heart disease is associated with adverse outcomes. The exact prevalence of PH in the different pathologies that affect the left ventricle, however, is difficult to access with the current literature. The lack of a standard definition of PH in older studies, the different modalities to assess pulmonary artery pressures and the varying disease severity, all account for the great variability in the reported prevalence of PH. PH can accompany heart failure (HF) with reduced (HFrEF) or preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) as well as mitral and aortic valve disease; in any of these instances it is important to recognize whether the elevation of pulmonary pressures is driven by elevated left ventricular pressures only (isolated post-capillary PH) or if there is an accompanying remodeling component in the pulmonary arterioles (combined post-capillary and pre-capillary PH). The objective of this review is to describe the definitions, prevalence and the risk factors associated with the development of PH in the setting of HFrEF, HFpEF and valvular heart disease.
Virally delivered, constitutively active NFκB improves survival of injured retinal ganglion cells.

As axon damage and retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss lead to blindness, therapies that increase RGC survival and axon regrowth have direct clinical relevance. Given that NFκB signaling is critical for neuronal survival and may regulate neurite growth, we investigated the therapeutic potential of NFκB signaling in RGC survival and axon regeneration. Although both NFκB subunits (p65 and p50) are present in RGCs, p65 exists in an inactive (unphosphorylated) state when RGCs are subjected to neurotoxic conditions. In this study, we used a phosphomimetic approach to generate DNA coding for an activated (phosphorylated) p65 (p65mut), then employed an adeno-associated virus serotype 2 (AAV2) to deliver the DNA into RGCs. We tested whether constitutive p65mut expression prevents death and facilitates neurite outgrowth in RGCs subjected to transient retinal ischemia or optic nerve crush (ONC), two models of neurotoxicity. Our data indicate that RGCs treated with AAV2-p65mut displayed a significant increase in survival compared to controls in ONC model (77 ± 7% vs. 25 ± 3%, P-value = 0.0001). We also found protective effect of modified p65 in RGCs of ischemic retinas (55 ± 12% vs. 35 ± 6%), but not to a statistically significant degree (P-value = 0.14). We did not detect a difference in axon regeneration between experimental and control animals after ONC. These findings suggest that increased NFκB signaling in RGCs attenuates retinal damage in animal models of neurodegeneration, but insignificantly impacts axon regeneration.
Magnetic field-induced fabrication of Fe3O4/graphene nanocomposites for enhanced electrode performance in lithium-ion batteries

We report a novel magnetic field-induced approach for the fabrication of nanoporous and wrinkled Fe3O4/reduced graphene oxide (RGO) anode materials for lithium ion batteries (LIBs). The applied magnetic field improves the interfacial contact between the anode and current collector and increases the stacking density of active material. This facilitates the kinetics of Li ions and electrons, electrode durability, and surface area of active material. As a result, at relatively low specific currents (157 mA g−1), wrinkled Fe3O4/RGO anodes show high reversible specific capacities (up to 903 mA h g−1 at 157 mA g−1). At high discharge rate (1.57 A g−1), the specific capacity of wrinkled anodes stay at 345 mA h g−1 (with capacity retention of 90%) after 100 discharge/charge cycles compared to the rapid capacity fading associated with smooth or unwrinkled anodes with a specific capacity of 178 mA h g−1 after the same number of cycles. These results demonstrate the benefit of strong magnetic field treatment during fabrication of nanocomposites containing magnetic nanoparticles.
Hispanic Children and Integrated Care

Hispanic children have many barriers to healthcare and are less likely to receive needed interventions than children of other ethnic groups. The traditional healthcare system does not adequately address barriers such as inadequate training of pediatric primary care providers, financial cost and logistical problems, cultural issues, stigma, and fear. Integrated care may reduce healthcare disparities for Hispanic children. In integrated care, physicians, behavioral health providers, and other health professionals work together using the same treatment plan to manage healthcare. Behavioral health is an integral component of healthcare. There is a focus on screening, prevention, early intervention, and providing culturally competent care. This chapter describes the barriers to healthcare for Hispanic families and demonstrates how integrated care can reduce these problems. Finally, special topics that are particularly relevant in the health management of Hispanic youth will be used to illustrate how integrated care can impact families in these areas.
Occurrence and Timeliness of Goals of Care Discussions in the Neurocritical Care Unit (P3.224)

Objective: To study the occurrence & timeliness of goals of care discussions in Neurocritical Care Unit Background: Timely communication is critical for high-quality care in intensive care(ICU). Published literature in medical/surgical ICU quotes upto 81[percnt] of patient caregivers receive prognostic information( mean prognostic interval 1.7 +/- 2.8 days since ICU admission). Prognostication in acute neurological injuries is challenging and uncertainty may delay communication. We assess occurrence and timeliness of goals of communication in our neuroICU. Methods: Prospective observational study by surveying nurses in 22-bed Neuro ICU at tertiary level academic center over a 4-week period(weekdays only). Data was collected during morning multidisciplinary huddles and verified by verbally surveying nurses. Results: Survey results were analyzed for 97 patients and 185 encounters. Nurse knew that patient’s code status in all encounters. In 99.4[percnt] encounters, the nurse felt the patient’s treatment plan matched patient-centered goals of care. In 79.3[percnt] encounters, a provider-family discussion had occurred in the last 24 hours. Within 1st 24 hours of admission, 40.2[percnt] of patients were identified to need goals of care discussion,only 61.5[percnt] had such a discussion. For patients needing goals of care addressed, a discussion occurred at average within 1.3 ± 0.6 days. Dichotomized by age, 73.7[percnt] patients younger than 65 years old had a discussion, if one was needed, while only 50[percnt] older than 65 had one. When dichotomized by gender, 66.7[percnt] of males and 81.4[percnt] of females had a provider discussion, and 68.4[percnt] of females compared to 55[percnt] of males received a discussion of goals of care if needed in 1st 24 hrs Conclusions: Our data shows timely communication of goals of care in the Neuro ICU with a mean time comparable to published literature. However, there appear to be demographic disparities that warrant further research. Disclosure: Dr. Dixon has nothing to disclose. Dr. Canzona has nothing to disclose. Dr. Hyde has nothing to disclose. Dr. Martin has nothing to disclose. Dr. Bowton has nothing to disclose. Dr. Wilson has nothing to disclose. Dr. Brashear has received personal compensation for activities with Allergan, Ipsen, Revance and Concerta as a consultant. Dr. Brashear has received royalty payments from books royalties. Dr. Brashear has received research support from Ipsen, Merz, Allerg Dr. Sarwal has nothing to disclose.
Longitudinal analysis of intervention effects on temptations and stages of change for dietary fat using parallel process latent growth modeling

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend a 20–35 percent daily intake of fat. Resisting the temptation to eat high-fat foods, in conjunction with stage of readiness to avoid these foods, has ...
Introduction: Plotting Motherhood in Medieval, Early Modern, and Modern Literature

Plotting Motherhood explores inconsistent literary representations of motherhood in texts ranging from the fourth to the twentieth centuries. Mary Beth Rose unearths plots startling in their frequency and redundancy that struggle to accommodate—or to obliterate—the complex assertions of maternal authority as it challenges traditional family structures. The book examines the many plots in which mothers are dead, and those in which their living presences disrupt patriarchal authority. These plots reappear and are transformed by authors as diverse in chronology and literary form as Augustine, Shakespeare, Milton, Oscar Wilde, and Tony Kushner. Writing in a culture enmeshed in changing gender values, Kushner revises existing mother plots to represent the transformative social and political potential of motherhood.
Purchaser's Damages for Breach of Contract

Consideration of a recent decision awarding purchasers their costs for vendor's breach of contract.