cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Evidence for liquid-phase cirrus cloud formation from volcanic aerosols: climatic implications.

Supercooled droplets in cirrus uncinus cell heads between -40 and -50 C are identified from the First International Satellite Cloud Climatology Project Regional Experiment polarization lidar measurements. Although short-lived, complexes of these small liquid cells seem to have contributed importantly to the formation of the cirrus. Freezing-point depression effects in solution droplets, apparently resulting from relatively large cloud condensation nuclei of volcanic origin, can be used to explain this rare phenomenon. An unrecognized volcano-cirrus cloud climate feedback mechanism is implied by these findings.
Frequency standards based on optically pumped cesium

The state of development of optically pumped cesium-beam frequency standards is reviewed. The replacement of magnetic methods for atomic state selection and detection by optical (laser) methods provides potential for major reductions in systematic errors as well as a large increase in useable atomic beam flux. These translate to higher accuracy and better stability (both short and long term) or longer operating life if the beam current is reduced. With current technology it appears possible to construct a laboratory primary standard based on the concept. Simple and inexpensive field standards can also benefit from the optical pumping technology, but additional improvements in stabilized laser diodes will be needed.
Adaptive Algorithm for Classifying Launch and Recovery of the HH-60H Seahawk

The pilot ratings from at-sea dynamic interface launch/recovery flight tests of the HH-60H Seahawk helicopter have been modeled satisfactorily by an adaptive, nonparametric classification scheme. Results were compared against those from three popular pattern classification tools and confirmed the authors’ choice of algorithm. The resulting pilot rating classification model has also been used to evaluate the sensitivity to the 13 dependent parameters that include ship, aircraft, and environmental conditions.
Performance of the parent emotional functioning (PREMO) screener in parents of children undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

Parents of children undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) may face emotional distress while managing intense treatments with uncertain outcomes. We evaluated a brief parental emotional functioning (PREMO) screener from a health-related quality of life instrument to identify parental emotional distress, as measured by the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Axis I Disorders (SCID). As part of a longitudinal pediatric HSCT study, parents (N = 165) completed the Child Health Ratings Inventories, which contain the 7-item PREMO screener. Some parents (n = 117) also completed SCID modules for Anxiety, Mood, and Adjustment disorders at baseline and/or 12 months. A composite outcome was created for threshold or subthreshold levels of any of these disorders. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis assessed how the PREMO screener predicted emotional distress as measured by the SCID. A prediction model was then built. Fifty-two percent of parents completing the SCID had an Axis I disorder at baseline, while 41 % had an Axis I disorder at 12 months. The area under the ROC curve was 0.75 for the PREMO screener and 0.81 for the prediction model. The PREMO screener may identify parents with, or at risk for, emotional distress and facilitate further evaluation and intervention.
Constraints on mass of the DFSZ axions from the carbon-oxygen burning stage of stars

Abstract It is believed that carbon burning of detonation or deflagration is an essential process for producing type I supernovae. We consider the effect of the energy loss due to the DFSZ axions on the core temperature of the star, and we use the minimum core temperature needed for a type I supernova to constrain the mass of DFSZ axions.
Microwave generation from a cusptron oscillator with a six-vane circuit

Microwave radiation at high harmonics of the electron cyclotron frequency is generated from a cusptron device. An axis-rotating beam of 30kV, 3.5 A, 4μs, and 60pps interacts with modes in a six-vane circuit by the negative mass instability. Radiation power is more than l0kW with approximately 10% electronic efficiency at 6·0GHz which corresponds to the sixth harmonic of the electron cyclotron frequency. With the same circuit and a 28 kV, 1·5 A beam, we also obtained approximately 40kW radiation with 9·5% efficiency at the fourth harmonic frequency of 3·9 GHz
Statistical analysis of waveguide gratings using Rouard's method.

An analysis of the effects of random aperiodicities on the reflectivity response of a periodic waveguide grating is presented. This analysis is based on our thin film model of the waveguide grating and employs Rouard’s method. We show that aperiodicities as small as 1% of the grating period significantly alter the reflectivity response.
Solvent and polymer matrix effects on TIPS-pentacene/polymer blend organic field-effect transistors

We report on a systematic study of solvent and polymer matrix effects on the phase segregation behavior of 6,13-bis(triisopropylsilylethynyl) pentacene (TIPS-pentacene) blends incorporated into two different amorphous polymer matrices, poly (α-methyl styrene) and poly (triarylamine), and using two solvents, chlorobenzene and tetralin. Optical microscopy, X-ray diffraction analyses, and optical absorption measurements are used to evaluate the film morphology, crystallinity, and optical density, respectively. These analyses are correlated with the extent of vertical segregation of TIPS-pentacene, as observed for the blended films by depth-profile XPS analyses. The microstructure and vertical phase segregation of TIPS-pentacene in blend films are found to be strongly influenced by the choice of solvent. Tetralin, a solvent with a high boiling temperature, was found to be more desirable for achieving distinct phase segregation/crystallization of TIPS-pentacene in blend films and best performance in OFETs with a dual-gate geometry. The electrical properties of top and bottom channels were consistent with the morphological characterization and OFETs processed from tetralin showed higher mobility values than those from chlorobenzene. Further modification of the annealing conditions in the TIPS-pentacene/PTAA/tetralin ternary system led to top-gate OFETs with mobility values up to 2.82 cm2/Vs.
Web-based Mammography Audit Feedback

OBJECTIVE. Interpreting screening mammography accurately is challenging and requires ongoing education to maintain and improve interpretative skills. Recognizing this, many countries with organized breast screening programs have developed audit and feedback systems using national performance data to help radiologists assess and improve their skills. We developed and tested an interactive Website to provide screening and diagnostic mammography audit feedback with comparisons to national and regional benchmarks. MATERIALS AND METHODS. Radiologists who participate in three Breast Cancer Surveillance Consortium registries in the United States were invited during 2009 and 2010 to use a Website that provides tabular and graphical displays of mammography audit reports with comparisons to national and regional performance measures. We collected data about the use and perceptions of the Website. RESULTS. Thirty-five of 111 invited radiologists used the Website from one to five times in a year. The most popular mea...
Decoding real block codes: activity detection Wiener estimation

New decoding procedures for real-number block codes which are constructed by imposing constraints in the discrete Fourier transform (DFT) domain are examined. The codewords are corrupted by small levels of roundoff noise and possibly occasionally by a few large excursions of random disturbances. The error-correcting procedure is separated into two parts, large activity detection followed by error value estimation, particularly the larger errors. The first part determines if large excursions are present, roughly identifying their locations, while the second part is a Wiener minimum mean-squared error estimation technique providing a stochastic correction to the corrupted components. The activity-detecting part determines locations for large increases in the Wiener estimator's gain. A computationally intensive Bayes hypothesis testing approach is shown to be very effective at locating large activity positions, but a more efficient modified Berlekamp-Massey (1969) algorithm is developed which leads to excellent mean-squared error performance. Extensive simulations demonstrate individual codeword corrective actions and compare the average mean-squared error performance between coded and unprotected data. The error level improvement ranges from three to four orders of magnitude.
Measurements of Static Welfare Losses, Distribution Inequities, and Revenues in the Brazilian Multiple Auction Exchange Rate System

I. Introduction, 490. — II. A brief description of the system, 491. — III. Static welfare losses from foreign exchange pricing, 491. — IV. Revenue gains and losses, 495. — V. Other costs and offsets, 498. — Appendix A: general method: converting loss estimates to linear estimates around the regression means, 499. — Appendix B: methodology of welfare loss calculations, 500.
Neuropeptide Y receptors differentially modulate G‐protein‐activated inwardly rectifying K+ channels and high‐voltage‐activated Ca2+ channels in rat thalamic neurons

1. Using whole-cell patch-clamp recordings, infrared videomicroscopy and fast focal solution exchange methods, the actions of neuropeptide Y (NPY) were examined in thalamic slices of postnatal (10-16 days) rats. 2. NPY activated a K+-selective current in neurons of the thalamic reticular nucleus (RT; 20/29 neurons) and ventral basal complex (VB; 19/25 neurons). The currents in both nuclei had activation and deactivation kinetics that were very similar to those of GABAB receptor-induced currents, were totally blocked by 0.1 mM Ba2+ and showed voltage-dependent relaxation. These properties indicate that the NPY-sensitive K+ current is mediated by G-protein-activated, inwardly rectifying K+ (GIRK) channels. 3. In RT neurons, NPY application reversibly reduced high-voltage-activated (HVA) currents to 33 +/- 5 % (n = 40) of the control level but did not affect the T-type currents. Inhibition of Ca2+ currents was voltage independent and was largely mediated by effects on N- and P/Q-type channels. 4. NPY activation of GIRK channels was mediated via NPY1 receptors, whereas inhibition of N- and P/Q-type Ca2+ channels was mediated by NPY2 receptors. 5. These results show that neuropeptide Y activates K+ channels and simultaneously inhibits HVA Ca2+ channels via different receptor subtypes.
Modeling the Combustion Chamber Dynamics of Selectable-Thrust Rocket Motors

Challenge Project C4C is dedicated to developing and applying high-performance computing capabilities to accelerate the development of hypergolic and hybrid rocket engine concepts. Computational fluid dynamics is employed to model chemically-reacting flows within engine combustion chambers, and computational chemistry is employed to characterize propellant physical and reactive properties. Accomplishments are presented and discussed.
Multiple neuronal connexins in the mammalian retina

Gap junctions are abundant in the mammalian retina and many neuronal types form neural networks. Several different neuronal connexins have now been identified in the mammalian retina. Cx36 supports coupling in the AII amacrine cell network and is essential for processing rod signals. Cx36 is probably also responsible for photoreceptor coupling. Horizontal cells appear to be extensively coupled by either Cx50 or Cx57. These results indicate that multiple neuronal connexins are expressed in the mammalian retina and that different cell types express different connexins.
Music, Musicians, and the Saint-Simonians

The Saint-Simonians, whose movement flourished in France between 1825 and 1835, are widely recognized for their contributions to history and social thought. Until now, however, no full account has been made of the central role of the arts in their program. In this skillful interdisciplinary study, Ralph P. Locke describes and documents the Saint-Simonians' view of music as an ideological tool and the influence of this view on musical figures of the day. The disciples of Claude Henri de Rouvroy, comte de Saint-Simon, believed that increased industrial production would play a crucial role in improving the condition of the working masses and in shifting power from the aristocratic "drones" to the enterprising men of talent then rising in the French middle class. As a powerful means of winning support for their views, music became an integral part of the Saint-Simonians' writings and ceremonial activities. Among the musicians Locke discusses are Berlioz, Liszt, and Mendelssohn, whose tangential association with the Saint-Simonians reveals new aspects of their social and aesthetic views. Other musicians became the Saint-Simonians' faithful followers, among them Jules Vincard, Dominique Tajan-Roge, and particularly Felicien David, the movement's principal composer. Many of these composers' works, reconstructed by Locke from authentic sources, are printed here, including the "Premier Chant des industriels," written at Saint-Simon's request by Rouget de Lisle, composer of the "Marseillaise." "
Nitrogen diffusion and solubility in tungsten

The diffusion and solubility of nitrogen in tungsten were determed using an ultrahigh vacuum-and mass-spectrometric technique capable of measuring concentrations of 10−2 ppm and degassing rates of 10−3 ppm N per hr. The technique is based on measuring the degassing rate of nitrogen as a function of time from a resistivity heated tungsten wire previously engassed with nitrogen between 1 and 25 torr. The diffusion and solubility constants between 1000° and 1800°C may be summarized by $$D = (2.37 \pm 0.43) \times 10^{ - 3} \exp [( - 35,800 \pm 3900)/RT] cm^2 /\sec ,$$ , and $$S = (0.21 \pm 0.06) \exp [( - 17,600 \pm 5900)/RT] torr \cdot liter cm^{ - 3} torr^{ - 1/2} .$$ . The concentration of nitrogen in tungsten at 760 torr according to these results are 0.4 and 9.2 ppm at 1000° and 2000°C, respectively. The expression for the permeation constants calculated fromD andS is $$K = 5 \times 10^{ - 4} \exp ( - 53,400/RT) torr \cdot liter cm^{ - 1} sec^{ - 1} torr^{ - 1/2} .$$ .
Optimization of polyester sheet molding compound. Part I: Experimental study

A series of differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and molding experiments were carried out to measure the effect of curing agents, namely initiators and inhibitor, on the SMC reaction. Results showed that the induction time, the reaction rate, and the limiting conversion of sheet molding compounds can be modified through the change of curing agents. The SMC resin with a higher concentration of low temperature initiator and molded at higher temperature may cure in a shorter period of time and reach a higher conversion. The shortened scorch time and shelf life can be balanced by adding small amount of inhibitor. Surface quality of molded SMC parts measured by solvent extraction process showed that limiting conversion is an important factor in SMC molding.
The Ethics of Regional Anesthesia in Anesthetized Children

Abstract Little debate exists regarding the effectiveness of regional anesthesia in improving surgical outcomes and providing pain management for patients after surgery, trauma, or for certain medical illnesses. There is also little debate regarding the desirability of extending these benefits to patients in the pediatric age range. However, contention arises regarding the safety of such an extrapolation, particularly when one contemplates performing certain regional anesthetics on children rendered pharmacologically unconscious to overcome their fear and lack of voluntary cooperation. Here we will review the ethical issues that surround this consideration. Copyright 2002, Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.
A multi-resolution block storage model for database design

We propose a new storage model called MBSM (multiresolution block storage model) for laying out tables on disks. MBSM is intended to speed up operations such as scans that are typical of data warehouse workloads. Disk blocks are grouped into "super-blocks," with a single record stored in a partitioned fashion among the blocks in a superblock. The intention is that a scan operation that needs to consult only a small number of attributes can access just those blocks of each super-block that contain the desired attributes. To achieve good performance given the physical characteristics of modern disks, we organize super-blocks on the disk into fixed-size "mega-blocks." Within a megablock, blocks of the same type (from various super-blocks) are stored contiguously. We describe the changes needed in a conventional database system to manage tables using such a disk organization. We demonstrate experimentally that MBSM outperforms competing approaches such as NSM (N-ary storage model), DSM (decomposition storage model) and PAX (partition attributes across), for I/O bound decision-support workloads consisting of scans in which not all attributes are required. This improved performance comes at the expense of single-record insert and delete performance; we quantify the trade-offs involved. Unlike DSM, the cost of reconstructing a record from its partitions is small. MBSM stores attributes in a vertically partitioned manner similar to PAX, and thus shares PAX's good CPU cache behavior. We describe methods for mapping attributes to blocks within super-blocks in order to optimize overall performance, and show how to tune the super-block and mega-block sizes.
Properties of firefly luciferase immobilized through a biotin carboxyl carrier protein domain

A fusion protein, consisting of biotin carboxyl carrier protein (BCCP) domain from Escherichia coli and firefly luciferase (FL) from Photinus pyralis, was immobilized through the biotin-avidin interaction on 6% cross-linked agarose beads. Several properties of the immobilized BCCP-FL were studied. Immobilized and free enzymes showed no significant difference in thermal stability; both retained at least 91% activity after incubation at 4 degrees C and 25 degrees C for 22 h. Incubation at 37 degrees C for 22 h caused significant activity loss. K(M) and k(cat) values were determined for both free and immobilized enzymes. K(M) values were similar between free and immobilized enzymes; however, k(cat) of immobilized BCCP-FL was one-third of the k(cat) of the free enzyme. 294 micromol/L Co-enzyme A (CoA) and 44 mmol/L dithiothreitol (DTT) enhanced the total bioluminescence output. Triton X-100, Tween 20, PEG 8,000, PVP 40,000 and PVP 360,000 did not enhance the bioluminescence reaction of immobilized BCCP-FL.
Quantitative estimate of the Milankovitch-forced contribution to observed Quaternary climate change

A number of records commonly described as showing control of climate change by Milankovitch insolation forcing are reexamined. The fraction of the record variance attributable to orbital changes never exceeds 20%. In no case, including a tuned core, do these forcing bands explain the overall behavior of the records. At zero order, all records are consistent with stochastic models of varying complexity with a small superimposed Milankovitch response, mainly in the obliquity band. Evidence cited to support the hypothesis that the 100 Ka glacial/interglacial cycles are controlled by the quasi-periodic insolation forcing is likely indistinguishable from chance, given the small sample size andnear-integer ratios of 100 Ka to the precessional period s. At the least, the stochastic background‘‘noise’’ is likely to be of importance. r 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Rapid capacitor charger and battery system for portable pulsed power applications

The design of a scalable, burst-mode rapid capacitor charger and a high power battery system will be discussed. The design is scalable up to 40 kW output power and operates at 50 k V. The system is powered by a Lithium Ion Polymer (LiPo) battery pack and includes a battery management system. The topology is derived from a 5 kV, 3 kJ/s battery power capacitor charger that was previously demonstrated. This smaller charger occupied a volume of 1.5 L including batteries and demonstrated a 2 kW/L average power density over a 1 s burst. This power density is five to ten times higher than commercially available systems. The performance of this previous design was limited by strict form factor restrictions (1.5 L, 6" diameter). The new design is intended to match or exceed the power density of the previous design due to reduced form factor restrictions. Electrical and mechanical design, component selection, and circuit simulations will be presented.
Increased Blood-Brain Transport of Tryptophan After Portacaval Anastomoses in Germ-Free Rats

Portal-systemic shunting in rats results in altered plasma concentrations of the large neutral amino acids (NAA), and increased blood-brain barrier NAA transport. Bacterial ammonia production in the bowel, especially the colon, is thought to play a major role in the etiology of portal-systemic encephalopathy (PSE). In order to isolate the role of bacteria in PSE, plasma and brain amino acids and ammonia (NH3) were studied in germ-free (GF) rats with portacaval shunts (PCS). Germ-free rats underwent end-to-side portacaval shunt or sham operation under germ-free conditions and were kept in a germ-free isolator under careful bacteriologic control. Similar operations were carried out on conventional animals. Two weeks post-operatively blood-brain transport of the neutral amino acid tryptophan was studied and the animals sacrificed. Plasma NH3 rose after PCS both in GF and in conventional rats. In germ-free and conventional rats with PCS, there was a significant elevation in plasma of the aromatic amino acids and decreased concentrations of the branched-chain amino acids. In the brain, both groups had elevated aromatic amino acids, while the branched-chain amino acids remained normal. The blood-brain transport of tryptophan was elevated in portacaval shunted rats, whether germ-free or conventional. These studies suggest the elevated plasma levels of ammonia and disturbances in plasma and brain amino acids seen after portacaval shunt are not dependent on the presence of gut bacteria.
Variability of helium, neon, and argon in the lunar exosphere as observed by the LADEE NMS instrument

The Neutral Mass Spectrometer (NMS) onboard the Lunar Atmosphere and Dust Environment Explorer (LADEE) provided the first global characterization of He and Ar along with the discovery of Ne in the lunar exosphere. The mapping of the equatorial distribution of these noble gases revealed new selenographic and temporal variations. Helium was found to be controlled by the supply of solar wind alpha particles and by the presence of an endogenous source that supplies the exosphere at a rate of 1.9 × 1023 atoms s−1. Neon was detected over the nightside at levels comparable to He and was found to exhibit the spatial distribution of a surface accommodated noncondensable gas. The global measurements of NMS revealed the presence of a localized Ar enhancement that has never been identified before at the western maria. The variability resulting from this local enhancement is coupled to a more global but transient source.
Measuring the extent, depth, and severity of food insecurity: an application to American Indians in the USA

Within the extensive food insecurity literature, little work has been done regarding (a) the depth and severity of food insecurity and (b) the food insecurity of American Indians. This paper addresses both these topics with data from the 2001 to 2004 Core Food Security Module of the Current Population Survey. To measure food insecurity, three axiomatically derived measures of food insecurity are used. As expected, given the worse economic conditions facing American Indians, their food insecurity levels are generally higher than non-American Indians. However, the magnitude and significance of these differences differ depending on the choice of food insecurity measure.
Prioritization of resources for participants in a peer counseling breastfeeding support program.

Background:Peer counseling (PC) breastfeeding support programs have proven effective in increasing breastfeeding duration in low-income women.Objectives:This study aimed to describe program partici...
Work in Progress: Is Engineering For Me? A Qualitative Case Study of First-Year Students

This work in progress describes the experiences of two first-year students from a cohort of eight prospective engineering students at a private university in the western United States. The work presented is part of an ongoing qualitative case study of the cohort of students as they navigate through their undergraduate career. Our preliminary findings provide some initial insights into the intensely personal and largely unshared complex academic major decision process. Over the course of the first year, one student discovered an aptitude for studies outside of engineering, while the other, in pursuit of a more well-rounded education, began to consider alternate pathways towards an engineering career. These narratives illustrate two exits out of undergraduate engineering; both related to the tensions between the students' interest in engineering and other areas of study. The data referenced are based on semi-structured ethnographic interviews with the students at the conclusion of their freshman year.
Ezrin: a protein requiring conformational activation to link microfilaments to the plasma membrane in the assembly of cell surface structures

The cortical cytoskeleton of eucaryotic cells provides structural support to the plasma membrane and also contributes to dynamic processes such as endocytosis, exocytosis, and transmembrane signaling pathways. The ERM (ezrin-radixin-moesin) family of proteins, of which ezrin is the best studied member, play structural and regulatory roles in the assembly and stabilization of specialized plasma membrane domains. Ezrin and related molecules are concentrated in surface projections such as microvilli and membrane ruffles where they link the microfilaments to the membrane. The present knowledge about ezrin is discussed from an historical perspective. Both biochemical and cell biological studies have revealed that ezrin can exist in a dormant conformation that requires activation to expose otherwise masked association sites. Current results indicate that activated ezrin monomers or head-to-tail oligomers associate directly with F-actin through a domain in its C terminus, and with the membrane through its N-terminal domain. The association of ezrin with transmembrane proteins can be direct, as in the case of CD44, or indirect through EBP50. Other binding partners, including the regulatory subunit of protein kinase A and rho-GDI, suggest that ezrin is an integral component of these signaling pathways. Although the membrane-cytoskeletal linking function is clear, further studies are necessary to reveal how the activation of ezrin and its association with different binding partners is regulated.
Reducing microplastics from facial exfoliating cleansers in wastewater through treatment versus consumer product decisions

Microplastics (<5mm) have been discovered in fresh and saltwater ecosystems, sediments, and wastewater effluent around the world. Their ability to persist and accumulate up food chains should be a concern as research is still experimenting with techniques to assess their long-term effects on the environment. I sought to characterize the microbeads found in facial exfoliating cleansers so as to better understand how to reduce this source of pollution through consumer use and wastewater treatment solutions. By sampling products from national-grossing cosmetic personal care brands, I was able to gather information on the size, color, volume, mass, and concentration of polyethylene beads in the cleansers. From that data, I modeled onto a consumer survey the estimated volume of microplastics entering a wastewater stream. Through inquiry, I learned the practices of two local wastewater treatment facilities. My findings show that consumer decisions and treatment protocols both play crucial parts in minimizing microplastic pollution.
The persistent life of IgA

When we first learn about antibodies in an intro immunology course, immunoglobulin A (IgA) is always classified as being the dominant isotype in the mucosal immune system. However, we are far from a complete understanding of its contribution to mucosal immunity. In some contexts, IgA helps protect the host from infection, but much remains to be discovered on the functional role of IgA in the interactions between the commensal microbiota and host physiology beyond an increase in germ-free mice after colonization with commensal microbes. To gain insight into this IgA-mediated host microbe crosstalk, Lindner et al. used next-generation sequencing to characterize the IgA repertoire in gnotobiotic mice either monocolonized with one of several gut microbes or with a community of microbes from specific pathogen free (SPF) mice. Unsurprisingly, these experiments showed that increasing gut microbial community complexity led to an increase in IgA repertoire diversity. Notably, different gnotobiotic mice colonized with the same microbe had nonoverlapping IgA repertoires. Therefore, the bulk of the IgA repertoire analyses were performed longitudinally from small intestine biopsies with each animal serving as its own control. Using this longitudinal study design, the authors performed a series of comparisons and microbiome perturbations in gnotobiotic animals. They found that longitudinal samples from animals maintained with the same microbiota yielded a strong overlap in their repertoire composition over 4 weeks. There was also a strong overlap in the IgA repertoire between Peyer’s patch memory B cells, IgA-secreting plasma cells in the gut, and mammary glands. In a microbiota perturbation experiment, gnotobiotic mice were initially monocolonized and subsequently colonized with the community from an SPF mouse. As expected, their second colonization led to an increase in IgA repertoire diversity. However, even in the context of this large increase in microbiota complexity, a proportion of the original IgA repertoire overlapped with the repertoire post-SPF colonization, suggesting that memory of prior colonization events is maintained even after large perturbations, at least in the time frame of their experiment. Even more surprising, the authors found a stable IgA repertoire, longitudinally within each mouse, before and after four weeks of antibiotic treatment. Importantly, the authors found similar results in human subjects, suggesting that the exciting new insights into IgA diversity and persistence in the controlled gnotobiotic environment parallel those in humans, opening the possibility for many new translational discoveries into IgA diversity, persistence, and function. C. Lindner et al. , Diversification of memory B cells drives the continuous adaptation of secretory antibodies to gut microbiota. Nat. Immunol. 10.1038/ni.3213 (2015). [[Abstract]][1] [1]: http://www.nature.com/ni/journal/v16/n8/full/ni.3213.html
An Assessment of Publication Productivity in Career Development and Transition for Exceptional Individuals 1978–2012

This literature review examined publication patterns in the journal of Career Development and Transition for Exceptional Individuals across 35 years of publication. Overall, 732 contributors affili...
The Effect of Word Processing on the Quality of Writing and Self-Esteem of Secondary School English-As-Second-Language Students: Writing without Censure:

Current research on the academic and social status of ESL students focuses upon the three major changes that have occurred in large urban centers throughout the United States: the increased population of limited-English-proficient youngsters, the increased dropout rate among these students despite a decrease among the native-speaking population, and the installation of microcomputers in all city secondary schools.The effect of using word processing on the self-esteem and quality of writing of sixty-six beginning ESL students in an urban secondary school was the focus of this research. A quasi-experimental study using a pretest/posttest design was conducted for a period of one cycle of thirteen weeks. It was hypothesized that the use of word processing would improve the quality of writing and self-esteem. The findings established that there was a statistically significant difference in the quality of writing between the experimental group, which used word processing, and the control group, which used tradi...
Vibrant Matter: A Political Ecology of Things

The impact of new materialism on the study of rhetoric is indefinite, but one cannot deny the fact that it is having an impact. Simple but important questions, such as how new materialism differs f...
Children as an Emotional Amplifier in Northern Illinois White-Tailed Deer Interactions.

ABSTRACTThis pilot study identified and provided initial exploration into the notion that the presence of children can increase or amplify the emotional significance of encounters with white-tailed deer. Qualitative data demonstrated that Northern Illinois natural area decision makers found deer encounters to be more memorable when simultaneously sharing space with children. The theoretical frame was informed by Experiential Learning Theory and the Theory of Emotional Memory. Implications for environmental education practice and research are discussed.
Transfemoral: Upcoming Valves

Transcatheter valve implantation via the transfemoral approach has steadily evolved over the past decade. With the publication of large, multicenter trials evaluating the first-generation devices, it is clear that transcatheter valve implantation is a safe and effective treatment for aortic valve disease. However, several shortcomings have been identified: high incidences of cerebrovascular accidents, vascular complications, rhythm disturbances, paravalvular regurgitation, and malposition. These shortcomings combined with expanding indications have stimulated many companies to produce new second-generation devices aimed at reducing or eliminating these deficiencies. In particular, some second-generation transfemoral devices have been designed to be delivered through sheaths as small as 14 French with the ability to be repositioned and retrieved. With new devices being produced at an exponential rate both in the United States and throughout the entire world, evaluating each new device through rigorous preclinical and clinical trials is essential. Once safety and efficacy are confirmed, indications are well established, and technology has sufficiently matured, large randomized trials will be necessary to compare each transcatheter device.
Structure property relationships in gallium oxide thin films grown by pulsed laser deposition

Beta-gallium oxide (β-Ga2O3) is of increasing interest to the optoelectronic community for transparent conductor and power electronic applications. Considerable variability exists in the literature on the growth and doping of Ga2O3 films, especially as a function of growth approach, temperature, and oxygen partial pressure. Here pulsed laser deposition (PLD) was used to grow high-quality β-Ga2O3 films on (0001) sapphire and (−201) Ga2O3 single crystals and to explore the growth, stability, and dopability of these films as function of temperature and oxygen partial pressure. There is a strong temperature dependence to the phase formation, morphology, and electronic properties of β-Ga2O3 from 350 to 550 °C.
Single-Phase Photo-Cross-Linkable Bioinspired Adhesive for Precise Control of Adhesion Strength

A bioinspired, modular terpolymer adhesive, poly(N-methacryloyl-3,4-dihydroxyl-l-phenylalanine-co-9-(acryloyloxy)butyl anthracene-9-carboxylate-co-acrylic acid), has been synthesized containing three different functionalities: a photo-cross-linking segment, a wet interfacial adhesion segment, and a water-soluble segment. The synthesized adhesive polymer is the first example of a single-phase, photo-cross-linkable adhesive which does not require additional photoinitiator or other cross-linking agents. The terpolymer demonstrates strong adhesion when it swells in water and/or ethanol. The terpolymer is composed of three repeating units: N-methacryloyl-3,4-dihydroxyl-l-phenylalanine (MDOPA), which has been known to generate strong adhesion under wet conditions, poly(acrylic acid), which has been known to increase water solubility of polymers, and a photo-cross-linking segment consisting of an anthracene-based monomer used for enhancement of cohesion properties via UV irradiation (352 nm). A photomediated [4 ...
The Theory of Lateral Pressure: Highlights of Quantification and Empirical Analysis

Lateral Pressure refers to any tendency (or propensity) of individuals and societies to expand their activities and exert influence and control beyond their established boundaries, whether for economic, political, military, scientific, religious, or other purposes. Framed by Robert C. North and Nazli Choucri, the theory addresses the sources and consequences of such a tendency. Lateral Pressure theory seeks to explain the relationships between state characteristics and patterns of international behavior. The theory addresses the sources and consequences of transformation and change in international relations and provides a basis for analyzing potential feedback dynamics. The causal logic runs from the internal drivers, the master variables that shape the profiles of states -- through the intervening effects of socially aggregated and articulated demands and institutional capabilities -- toward modes of external behavior designed to meet demands given the capabilities at hand. To the extent that states expand their activities outside territorial boundaries – driven by a wide range of capabilities and motivations – they are likely to encounter other states similarly engaged. The intersection among spheres of influence is the first step in complex dynamics leading hostilities, escalation, and eventually to conflict and violence. These processes are contingent on the actors’ intents, capabilities, and activities.This paper proceeds as follows: First we highlight the basic features of lateral pressure theory, its core components, and their interconnections. Some aspects are more readily quantifiable than others. Some are more consistent with conventional theory in international relations. Others are based on assumptions that depart from tradition by adopting a multidisciplinary perspective, thus drawing on insights and evidence from other areas of knowledge. Second, we summarize the phases of empirical investigations and the evolution of theory over time. Third, we return to basics and focus on the refinements of metrics and quantification of the core concepts. All of this pertains to the world, as we have known it prior to the construction of the Internet, the core of cyberspace. Fourth, we then review briefly the work to date on lateral pressure in the cyber domain. The Endnote highlights some emerging imperatives.
Predictions of space radiation fatality risk for exploration missions.

Abstract In this paper we describe revisions to the NASA Space Cancer Risk (NSCR) model focusing on updates to probability distribution functions (PDF) representing the uncertainties in the radiation quality factor (QF) model parameters and the dose and dose-rate reduction effectiveness factor (DDREF). We integrate recent heavy ion data on liver, colorectal, intestinal, lung, and Harderian gland tumors with other data from fission neutron experiments into the model analysis. In an earlier work we introduced distinct QFs for leukemia and solid cancer risk predictions, and here we consider liver cancer risks separately because of the higher RBE's reported in mouse experiments compared to other tumors types, and distinct risk factors for liver cancer for astronauts compared to the U.S. population. The revised model is used to make predictions of fatal cancer and circulatory disease risks for 1-year deep space and International Space Station (ISS) missions, and a 940 day Mars mission. We analyzed the contribution of the various model parameter uncertainties to the overall uncertainty, which shows that the uncertainties in relative biological effectiveness (RBE) factors at high LET due to statistical uncertainties and differences across tissue types and mouse strains are the dominant uncertainty. NASA's exposure limits are approached or exceeded for each mission scenario considered. Two main conclusions are made: 1) Reducing the current estimate of about a 3-fold uncertainty to a 2-fold or lower uncertainty will require much more expansive animal carcinogenesis studies in order to reduce statistical uncertainties and understand tissue, sex and genetic variations. 2) Alternative model assumptions such as non-targeted effects, increased tumor lethality and decreased latency at high LET, and non-cancer mortality risks from circulatory diseases could significantly increase risk estimates to several times higher than the NASA limits.
Race-dependent association of sulfidogenic bacteria with colorectal cancer

Objective Colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence is higher in African Americans (AAs) compared with non-Hispanic whites (NHWs). A diet high in animal protein and fat is an environmental risk factor for CRC development. The intestinal microbiota is postulated to modulate the effects of diet in promoting or preventing CRC. Hydrogen sulfide, produced by autochthonous sulfidogenic bacteria, triggers proinflammatory pathways and hyperproliferation, and is genotoxic. We hypothesised that sulfidogenic bacterial abundance in colonic mucosa may be an environmental CRC risk factor that distinguishes AA and NHW. Design Colonic biopsies from uninvolved or healthy mucosa from CRC cases and tumour-free controls were collected prospectively from five medical centres in Chicago for association studies. Sulfidogenic bacterial abundance in uninvolved colonic mucosa of AA and NHW CRC cases was compared with normal mucosa of AA and NHW controls. In addition, 16S rDNA sequencing was performed in AA cases and controls. Correlations were examined among bacterial targets, race, disease status and dietary intake. Results AAs harboured a greater abundance of sulfidogenic bacteria compared with NHWs regardless of disease status. Bilophila wadsworthia -specific dsrA was more abundant in AA cases than controls. Linear discriminant analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed five sulfidogenic genera that were more abundant in AA cases. Fat and protein intake and daily servings of meat were significantly higher in AAs compared with NHWs, and multiple dietary components correlated with a higher abundance of sulfidogenic bacteria. Conclusions These results implicate sulfidogenic bacteria as a potential environmental risk factor contributing to CRC development in AAs.
System-Level, FPGA-Based, Real-Time Simulation of Ship Power Systems

In this paper, we present a scalable approach for real-time simulation of ship power systems with high-frequency power electronics converters (100–200 kHz). The proposed approach is based on the latency-based linear multistep compound method and relies on field-programmable gate array (FPGA) execution. Several examples of increasing dimension and complexity are used to evaluate the scalability—both of in terms of computational delay and of resources usage—of the proposed approach. Real-time execution with a 50 ns time step is achieved for all the examples considered.
Comparative Evaluation of Development and Reproductive Capacity of Two Biotypes of Lilioceris cheni (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), Biological Control Agents of Air Potato (Dioscorea Bulbifera) in Florida

A Chinese biotype of Lilioceris cheni Gressitt and Kimoto (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) is being mass reared and released in Florida for biological control of the invasive air potato vine, Dioscorea bulbifera L. (Dioscoreales). Another biotype from Nepal is under investigation for determining whether its release would benefit the ongoing biological control program. We compared temperature-dependent development, fecundity, life table parameters, and consumption of the two biotypes in the laboratory. Both biotypes completed development at 20–30 °C, although survival of Chinese beetles was higher at 20 °C and 27.5 °C, and survival of Nepalese beetles was higher at 30 °C. In addition, Nepalese beetles developed at a faster rate at 20 °C, and consumed air potato foliage at a higher rate at 25 °C. The most important difference between the biotypes, with regard to biological control purposes, was the shorter generation time of Nepalese beetles, which resulted in a higher intrinsic rate of population increase, despite much higher fecundity of Chinese beetles. The higher intrinsic rate of increase of the Nepalese beetles may allow a more rapid population increase in the field, and thus, greater damage to air potato plants. However, differences in other life history traits, such as overwintering ability, diapause, and cold tolerance, will also influence field performance.
Abstract WMP55: Racial Disparities in Stroke Recovery: a Meta-analysis

Introduction: While it is well known that Blacks have a higher risk of death after an index stroke compared to their White counterparts, the influence of Black race on recovery after a stroke is unclear. Objective: To qualitatively and quantitatively examine the association of Black vs. White race on stroke recovery utilizing a systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods: We searched PubMed for cohort studies that investigated racial variation issues in stroke motor recovery between January 1970 and July 2015, in which outcome was measured by Functional Independence Measures (FIM) scale. Change scores (the difference score between discharge and admission) or endpoint scores (at the time of discharge) were compared between Whites and Blacks by calculating standardized mean differences (Hedge’s g ) to derive a summary effect size. Random Effects model was used to account for data heterogeneity. Results: We identified six studies (4 studies with changes scores and 4 studies with endpoint scores available) with a total 151,361 subjects. Overall, there was no difference between blacks vs. Whites (Hedge’s g = 0.02, 95% CI = [-0.08, 0.13], p = 0.89) if endpoint scores were used, but Whites seemed to show a non-significant pattern of greater improvement than Blacks during the inpatient hospital rehabilitation (FIM change scores, Hedge’s g = 0.12, 95% CI = [-0.05, 0.30], p = 0.17). This qualitative discrepancy maybe explained by the difference in admission score between the two groups (Hedge’s g = 0.16, 95% CI = [-0.01, 0.34], p = 0.06). Better FIM change scores in Whites maybe explained by longer stays in hospital (Hedge’s g = 0.13, 95% CI = [0.00, 0.25], p = 0.06). Conclusions: This analysis identifies a significant evidence gap for racial disparities in stroke recovery. Additional studies to assess change scores are needed to address these gaps. ![][1] [1]: /embed/graphic-1.gif
Performance Fatigability: Mechanisms and Task Specificity

Performance fatigability is characterized as an acute decline in motor performance caused by an exercise-induced reduction in force or power of the involved muscles. Multiple mechanisms contribute to performance fatigability and originate from neural and muscular processes, with the task demands dictating the mechanisms. This review highlights that (1) inadequate activation of the motoneuron pool can contribute to performance fatigability, and (2) the demands of the task and the physiological characteristics of the population assessed, dictate fatigability and the involved mechanisms. Examples of task and population differences in fatigability highlighted in this review include contraction intensity and velocity, stability and support provided to the fatiguing limb, sex differences, and aging. A future challenge is to define specific mechanisms of fatigability and to translate these findings to real-world performance and exercise training in healthy and clinical populations across the life span.