cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fourth- and sixth-order conservative finite difference approximations of the divergence and gradient

We derive conservative fourth- and sixth-order finite difference approximations for the divergence and gradient operators and a compatible inner product on staggered 1D uniform grids in a bounded domain. The methods combine standard centered difference formulas in the interior with new one-sided finite difference approximations near the boundaries. We derive compatible inner products for these difference methods that are high-order approximations of the continuum inner product. We also investigate defining compatible high-order divergence and gradient finite difference operators that satisfy a discrete integration by parts identity.
A DESCRIPTION OF THE PATHOLOGY OF EPIZOOTIC SHELL DISEASE IN THE AMERICAN LOBSTER, HOMARUS AMERICANUS, H. MILNE EDWARDS 1837

Abstract Epizootic shell disease is responsible for great economic losses in the commercial lobster fishing industry in the northeastern United States. Histologic examination of the carapace from affected American lobsters showed the disease is primarily caused by bacteria invading the carapace from the surface of the shell. The carapace itself appears normal in areas that are not eroded and there seems to be an appropriate inflammatory response mounted by the lobsters' hemocytes and tissues to the erosive lesions.
PressBase : a presentation synchronization database for distributed multimedia systems

Multimedia presentations are the basic objects of multimedia databases. Since a multimedia presentation is not an instant display of a query result, the control knowledge (or synchronization requirements) has to be incorporated into the database and necessary precautions have to be taken for a lengthy presentation. Active databases provide a mechanism for incorporation of control knowledge by using event-condition-action (ECA) rules. In this paper, we describe how multimedia synchronization can be handled within a database using ECA rules. We present a prototype presentation synchronization database, named as PressBase, for distributed multimedia systems. We have adopted one of the synchronization models, SynchRuler, and then incorporated into a relational database system.
Parasitism and Predation of Stink Bug (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae) Eggs in Georgia Corn Fields

Nezara viridula L. and Euschistus servus (Say) are the predominant species of phytophagous stink bugs on corn, Zea mays L., in Georgia. Oebalus pugnax pugnax (F.) occurs in relatively low numbers, and the predatory stink bug Podisus maculiventris (Say) is commonly found. Limited information is available on natural biological control of these four stink bug species in Georgia corn fields; therefore, a 6-yr study of parasitism and predation of their eggs was initiated in 2003. Naturally occurring stink bug eggs were parasitized by six scelionid species, Trissolcus basalis (Wollaston), T. thyantae Ashmead, T. brochymenae (Ashmead), T. euschisti (Ashmead), Telenomus podisi Ashmead, Telenomus calvus Johnson, and one encyrtid species, Ooencyrtus sp. T. basalis was the most prevalent parasitoid of N. viridula, parasitizing E. servus and P. maculiventris eggs at low levels. T. podisi, the predominant parasitoid species emerging from eggs of E. servus and P. maculiventris, also parasitized O. p. pugnax eggs exclusively and parasitized N. viridula eggs at low levels. T. euschisti and T. thyantae parasitized E. servus egg masses. T. brochymenae parasitized eggs of both E. servus and P. maculiventris. T. calvus parasitized only P. maculiventris eggs. The same species of egg parasitoids that parasitized naturally occurring eggs of N. viridula and E. servus parasitized sentinel eggs of these bugs, except that no T. calvus and Ooencyrtus sp. were obtained from sentinel eggs, and T. thyantae and T. brochymenae emerged from sentinel eggs of N. viridula. Generally, parasitization of an egg mass was either greater than or equal to predation of sentinel eggs of N. viridula and E. servus. However, on some dates in late June and July, predation of sentinel egg masses was numerically approximately twice as high as parasitism. Results indicate stink bug egg parasitoids and predators are significant factors in the natural biological control of stink bugs in corn fields.
Limitations of Cycle Stealing for Parallel Processing on a Network of Homogeneous Workstations

The low cost and availability of clusters of workstations have lead researchers to re-explore distributed computing using independent workstations. This approach may provide better cost/performance than tightly coupled multiprocessors. In practice, this approach often utilizes wasted cycles to run parallel jobs. In this paper we address the feasibility and limitation of such a nondedicated parallel processing environment assuming workstation processes have priority over parallel tasks. We develop a simple analytical model to predict parallel job response times. Our model provides insight into how significantly workstation owner interference degrades parallel program performance. It forms a foundation for task partitioning and scheduling in a nondedicated network environment. A new term, task ratio, which relates the parallel task demand to the mean service demand of nonparallel workstation processes, is introduced. We propose that task ratio is a useful metric for determining how a parallel applications should be partitioned and scheduled in order to make efficient use of a nondedicated distributed system.
Interdisciplinary training in cellular engineering at UMass Amherst: The Institute for Cellular Engineering (ICE) REU Program at UMass Amherst

The goals of the REU on Cellular Engineering at the University of Massachusetts Amherst are to engage undergraduate students in cross-disciplinary research at the interface of life sciences and engineering/physical sciences and to increase the number and diversity of domestic students pursuing advanced degrees and careers in bioengineering and related fields. Our program distinguishes itself through a high level of faculty and institutional commitment to undergraduate research, larger scale collaborative research activities, and dedication to underrepresented populations. Unique aspects include: (i) a campus-wide “REU network” and collaboration with NEAGEP to promote recruiting of underrepresented students; (ii) close interactions between participants, graduate students, and faculty other than mentors through regular research seminars; (iii) a Professional Development seminar that includes training in interdisciplinary team-building, ethics, mentoring, and career skills; and (iv) promotion of relationships between REU and graduate students through interactions with the ICE IGERT and CBI programs. To date, 21 students have participated, including 12 from underrepresented groups (57%): 9 women (43%), 4 minorities (19%) and one disabled student (4.8%). Nine participants were eligible to enter graduate school in Fall 2008, and of these seven (77%) are in PhD programs related to cellular engineering, including two women and one disabled student.
Gendered Jobs: Integrating Immigrants versus Controlling Immigration in the European Union

Over the past fifteen years, concerns related to immigration and the integration of immigrants have risen to the forefront of European politics (e.g., Givens and Luedtke 2005; Guild, Groenendijk, and Carrera 2009). As anti-immigrant nationalist parties have gained ground, European governments have closed borders and even deported immigrants en masse. At the same time, countries throughout the European Union (EU) have increasingly stressed the importance of the social, economic, and cultural integration of immigrants. As immigration has become increasingly politicized across Europe, many governments have restructured themselves. Some countries have created new cabinet ministries designed to focus on immigration and immigrant integration. Other countries have assigned new immigration-related tasks to existing political bodies. In the face of new or radically transformed governance structures, one important question emerges: To what extent do women serve in immigration ministry leadership?
Accuracy and Feasibility of Determining Single Peanut Kernel Moisture Content1

Abstract The accuracy of a single peanut kernel moisture meter (SKM) was determined on peanuts with moisture contents (mc) from 4 to 50%. Results indicated a significant difference between calibration curves determined over the 4–12% mc range and the 4–50% mc range. No mechanical failures of the SKM occurred; however, excess residue build-up on the SKM rollers affected the moisture meter accuracy. Correlation coefficients for average and single kernel moisture calibration equations were 0.88 and 0.91, respectively, for field cured peanuts over the range of 4 to 12% mc. Procedures for integrating the SKM into the present farmers stock grading process are discussed.
Grid Cell Responses in 1D Environments Assessed as Slices through a 2D Lattice

Grid cells, defined by their striking periodic spatial responses in open 2D arenas, appear to respond differently on 1D tracks: the multiple response fields are not periodically arranged, peak amplitudes vary across fields, and the mean spacing between fields is larger than in 2D environments. We ask whether such 1D responses are consistent with the system's 2D dynamics. Combining analytical and numerical methods, we show that the 1D responses of grid cells with stable 1D fields are consistent with a linear slice through a 2D triangular lattice. Further, the 1D responses of comodular cells are well described by parallel slices, and the offsets in the starting points of the 1D slices can predict the measured 2D relative spatial phase between the cells. From these results, we conclude that the 2D dynamics of these cells is preserved in 1D, suggesting a common computation during both types of navigation behavior.
Effect of riboflavin deficiency on endochondral ossification of mice.

Summary and ConclusionsIn growing mice, riboflavin deficiency decreases both the rate of growth and of ossification, but intensifies the degeneration of the cartilage. These changes represent the histological basis for the inhibition of lengthwise growth seen in riboflavin-deficient animals. As compared with the changes seen in pantothenic acid deficiency, lack of riboflavin inhibits the proliferation of the cartilage to a lesser extent, whereas it produces degeneration of the cartilage, not seen in pantothenic acid deficiency. As in pantothenic acid deficiency, males are more sensitive to the lack of the vitamin than are females.In adult mice, the endosteal and peritrabecular osteoblasts undergo atrophy.
Migration of a Globefish Bone to the Sternocleidomastoid Muscle: Case Report

Fishbones are the most common upper aerodigestive and esophageal foreign body found in adults. Usually these bones pass, but when complications arise, they can be catastrophic and may include neck abscesses, mediastinitis, and esophago-aortic or esophagocarotid fistulas. We report the radiologic findings of fishbone injury occurring in a 48-year-old man in whom a globefish bone had penentrated the hypopharynx and migrated to the sternocleidomastoid muscle.
Establishment and application of real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR for detection of Salmonella

Objective:To establish a real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR method for rapid detection of Salmonella and investigate the feasibility and application value.Methods: Based on Salmonella specific gene,DNA extracted from Salmonella strain was used as template for fluorescence detection.Results: Results of all 7 bacteria strains were negative except for strains of Salmonella.The detection limit of the method was 30 cfu/ml with pure cultures of Salmonella.Coefficient variables were all less than 5% in 3 different detections of the same sample.To compare simulation specimens with culture strains,coincidence rate was 100%.Conclusion: This method can provide the basis for rapid detection of food-borne contamination of Salmonella and direct clinical stool specimens.
Bacteriological studies in a patient with antibiotic-associated pseudomembranous colitis.

Detailed aerobic and anaerobic bacteriological studies on the operative specimen from a patient with antibiotic-associated pseudomembranous colitis revealed approximately 1011 facultatively anaerobic bacteria, but less than 105 obligate anaerobes per g of involved colonic tissue. Fourteen isolates of Escherichia coli, three isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and two isolates of Streptococcus fecalis were identified. The majority of the organisms were resistant to most of the antibiotics that the patient had received. Examinations of A. coli for heat-labile and heat-stable enterotoxins and tissue invasiveness were negative, and enterotoxin tests on the P. aeruginosa isolates were negative. Inoculation of mice with the bacterial isolates revealed no unusual pathogenicity. These findings suggest that antibiotic-associated colitis is associated with a marked loss in anaerobic colonic flora, but the colitis could not be explained by the presence of enterotoxins, tissue invasiveness, and pathogenicity of remaining microorganisms.
A Rose by Any Other Name: How the United States Charges Its Service Members for Violating the Laws of War

This chapter examines the US practice of not charging its service members with war crimes. The chapter briefly explains how the United States asserts criminal jurisdiction over its service members before turning to how the US military reports violations of the laws of war. It then sets out the US methodology for charging such violations as applied to its service members, and compares this methodology to that applied to those tried by military commissions. The chapter then discusses the varied meanings of the term ‘war crimes’ and the way in which the 1949 Geneva Conventions can provide a benchmark against which the elements of offences, and their punishments, can be compared. While the US practice fares adequately in this comparison, the argument for a pragmatic approach to charging over the expressive value of a war crime charge is rendered untenable as a result of the disparate manner in which the United States charges detainees when compared to its own service members.
Exploring representations of Black masculinity and emasculation on NBC’s Parenthood

ABSTRACTHere, representations of Black masculinity and emasculation are explored on NBC’s Parenthood. We question whether depictions of Black masculinity represented through Parenthood’s character, Alex, are empowering or stereotypical; how do they reflect, destabilize, and/or reinforce heteronormative depictions of Black community members? Two seasons were analyzed using Owen’s thematic analysis. Ultimately, Black males are portrayed as being societal failures, criminals, violent, and hypersexualized through his character. This embodiment ultimately preserves long-held images of Black men as “Toms, coons … bucks … as oversexed, aggressive, violent, animalistic, or emasculated” (Jackson, R. L. II. 2006. Scripting the black masculine body: Identity, discourse, and racial politics in popular media. Albany, NY: State University of New York Press). Practical recommendations and suggestions for researchers and media practitioners are provided.
Synaptic connections from multiple subfields contribute to granule cell hyperexcitability in hippocampal slice cultures.

Limbic status epilepticus and preparation of hippocampal slice cultures both produce cell loss and denervation. This commonality led us to hypothesize that morphological and physiological alteratio...
Landscape Factors Influencing Stink Bug Injury in Mid-Atlantic Tomato Fields

Landscape structure and diversity influence insect species abundance. In agricultural systems, adjacent crop and non-crop habitats can influence pest species population dynamics and intensify economic damage. To investigate the influence of landscape factors on stink bug damage in agricultural systems, we assessed stink bug damage from 30 processing tomato fields in the mid-Atlantic United States and analyzed landscape structure and geographic location. We found that forest shape and size, and geographic location strongly influenced stink bug damage. Landscapes with larger forest edge in southern portions of the mid-Atlantic region experienced the greatest damage, perhaps owing to the introduction of the invasive brown marmorated stink bug. We conclude that landscape structure will likely influence damage rates in nearby agricultural fields.
Identification of Capsid/Coat Related Protein Folds and Their Utility for Virus Classification.

The viral supergroup includes the entire collection of known and unknown viruses that roam our planet and infect cellular life forms. The supergroup is remarkably diverse both in its genetics and morphology and has historically remained difficult to study and classify. The accumulation of protein structure data in the past few years now provides an excellent opportunity to re-examine the classification and evolution of viruses. Here we scan completely sequenced viral proteomes from all genome types and identify protein folds involved in the formation of viral capsids and virion architectures. Viruses encoding similar capsid/coat related folds were pooled into lineages, after benchmarking against published literature. Remarkably, the in silico exercise reproduced all previously described members of known structure-based viral lineages, along with several proposals for new additions, suggesting it could be a useful supplement to experimental approaches and to aid qualitative assessment of viral diversity in metagenome samples.
Hydride oxidation from a titanium-aluminum bimetallic complex: insertion, thermal and electrochemical reactivity.

We report the synthesis and reactivity of paramagnetic heterometallic complexes containing a Ti(III)-μ-H-Al(III) moiety. Combining different stoichiometries amounts of Cp2TiCl and KH3AlC(TMS)3 (Cp = cyclopentadienyl, TMS = trimethylsilyl) resulted in the formation of either bimetallic Cp2Ti(μ-H)2(H)AlC(TMS)3 (2) or trimetallic (Cp2Ti)2(μ-H)3(H)AlC(TMS)3 (3) via salt metathesis pathways. While these complexes were indefinitely stable at room temperature, the bridging hydrides were readily activated upon exposure to heteroallenes, heating, or electrochemical oxidation. In each case, formal hydride oxidation occurred, but the isolated product maintained the +3 oxidation state at both metal centers. The nature of this reactivity was explored using deuterium labelling experiments and Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations. It was found that while C–H activation from the Ti(III) bimetallic may occur through a σ-bond metathesis pathway, chemical oxidation to Ti(IV) promotes bimolecular reductive elimination of dihydrogen to form a Ti(III) product.
Recent Price Developments in the United States Potato Industry

An analysis of the relationship between potato prices and potato production is important for understanding industry developments. The analysis of the effect of potato production on potato prices was presented in two AJPR articles: Pavlista and Feuz (American Journal of Potato Research 82:339–343, 2005) and Loy et al. (American Journal of Potato Research 85:438–444, 2011). The articles estimated inverse potato demand in the U.S. and Germany, respectively, during the period of 1980–2003. They hypothesized that the potato price response to changes in potato production may be affected by a shift in consumer demand towards increasing consumption of processed potatoes in the U.S. and by socio-economic changes in Germany. This paper extends the existing research by analyzing the recent price developments in the U.S. potato industry. The empirical results indicate that the potato price response to changes in potato production was different during the period of 2005–2010, as compared to the periods of 1993–2004 and 2011–2016, which coincided with the implementation of the potato acreage management program.
Auger Spectroscopy in Planetary Science: Elemental Analysis of Presolar Silicate Grains

Auger spectroscopy has not found widespread application in the geological sciences, largely because specimens are often non-conductors that charge under electron beams. However, it has proven to be useful for the characterization of sub-micrometer mineral grains in certain meteorites, where sample charging issues can be mitigated. We describe the development of analytical protocols for the measurement of presolar silicate grains using Auger spectroscopy and review how this technique has helped our understanding of the stellar origin and subsequent evolution of these grains.
An efficient model to guide prospective T2-weighted 4D magnetic resonance imaging acquisition

Purpose To establish a mathematical model to guide prospective T2-weighted four-dimensional magnetic resonance imaging (4DMRI) acquisition and to propose an efficient solution to expedite prospective T2-weighted 4DMRI acquisition. Methods Prospective T2-weighted 4DMRI acquisition was characterized by a mathematical model with 4DMRI acquisition time as the objective function and completeness of the image set, acquisition timing, image contrast, and image artifacts as constraints. Given the irregular nature of human respiration, an efficient solution based on the greedy strategy (ESGS) was proposed. The efficiency of the ESGS method was validated using healthy human subjects. Comparisons were made with the previous 4DMRI method incorporating the prefixed-order respiratory state splitting (PO-RSS) technique. Results 4DMRI image sets acquired using the ESGS and PO-RSS methods had similar image quality. The average time to acquire a 4DMRI image set covering 60 slices at 10 respiratory states was reduced by 30%, from 13.1 min using the PO-RSS method to 9.0 min using the ESGS method. It was demonstrated that high-quality T2-weighted 4DMRI could be obtained within a reasonable amount of time and all slices within each of the three-dimensional volumes were indeed acquired at the same respiratory state. Conclusions The ESGS method substantially reduces the acquisition time for T2-weighted 4DMRI, making it ready for clinical evaluation to obtain abdominal tumor motion for radiotherapy treatment planning.
How I safely transfuse patients with sickle-cell disease and manage delayed hemolytic transfusion reactions

Transfusions can be a life-saving treatment of patients with sickle-cell disease (SCD). However, availability of matched units can be limiting because of distinctive blood group polymorphisms in patients of African descent. Development of antibodies against the transfused red blood cells (RBCs), resulting in delayed hemolytic transfusion reactions (DHTRs), can be life-threatening and pose unique challenges for this population with regard to treatment strategies and transfusion management protocols. In cases where the transfused cells and the patient’s own RBCs are destroyed, diagnosis of DHTR can be difficult because symptoms may mimic vaso-occlusive crisis, and frequently, antibodies are undetectable. Guidelines are needed for early diagnosis of DHTR because treatment may need to include temporarily withholding any new transfusions to avoid further hemolysis. Also needed are case-control studies to optimally tailor treatments based on the severity of DHTR and develop preventive transfusion strategies for patients at DHTR risk. Here, we will review gaps in knowledge and describe through case studies our recommended approach to prevent alloimmunization and to diagnose and treat symptomatic DHTRs for which complementary mechanistic studies to understand their pathogenesis are sorely needed.
Picosecond Laser Studies of Nonequilibrium Electron Heating in Copper

The phenomenon of inequality between the electron and lattice temperatures in metals has been the subject of theoretical investigation for nearly thirty years [1,2]. The existence of such a nonequilibrium situation was postulated on the basis of the small specific heat of the electron gas, which is thermally insulated from the lattice for ultra-short time durations. Although electron-phonon (e-p) collision times are on the order of 0.01 psec at room temperature, several collisions between hot electrons (~]1 eV) and phonons (~0.02 eV) are required for equilibration (~0.5 psec).
Determinants of CSR Commitments: A Theoretical Dimension

This chapter reviews the evolution of CSR studies in various academic fields and discusses various strands of CSR theories with an emphasis on theoretical findings of CSR’s motivational factors. CSR as an academic field of inquiry has undergone profound changes, from a rudimentary subject of occasional intellectual interests to a frequently debated topic that intersects both business orthodox and social sciences. There are mainly two camps of scholarly debates on CSR. On one hand, the predominant paradigm , the Business Case of CSR, identifies strategic considerations for risk reduction, image boosting, competitiveness enhancement, and legitimization (social license to operate) as main factors behind CSR. On the other hand, the holistic camp which encompasses several theories focusing on exogenous factors establishes that host country’s civil society engagement, host government’s relevant regulations, and host country’s participation in relevant international framework account for differences in CSR commitments.
The Effect of Pathologic Substances and Adulterants on the DNA Typing of Urine

Human urine has not been adequately investigated as a potential source of DNA for forensic identity testing. The advent of polymerase chain reaction technology has made possible the analysis of previously undetectable levels of nucleic acids from human urine and other body fluids lacking nucleated cells. In this study, we evaluated the ability to genotype DNA extracted from adulterated urine specimens using the AmpliType® PM + DQA1 PCR amplification and typing system. Fresh, first-void male urine specimens were contaminated with household bleach, E. coli, human serum albumin, glucose and saponin (a strong detergent). All of the adulterated samples were typed without difficulty. Frozen male urine specimens were split into equal volumes; one aliquot was adulterated with either E. coli or saponin, and the other was left free of contaminants. Seventy-one percent of all frozen urine specimens tested (adulterated and unadulterated) were successfully typed using this amplification and typing system. Our data, therefore, suggest that the AmpliType® PM + DQA1 PCR amplification and typing system described is suitable for genotype analysis of adulterated fresh and frozen urine specimens.
Predicting ischemic heart disease in women: the value of endothelial function.

Since the discovery in 1980 that acetylcholine elicits vasodilation in an endothelium-dependent manner ([1][1]), it has become evident that the endothelium plays a crucial role in vascular homeostasis by regulating vasodilation, smooth muscle cell proliferation and migration, platelet and leukocyte
Acts Like a Lawyer, Talks Like a Lawyer...Non-Lawyer Advocates Representing Parties in Dispute Resolution

The Ethical Issue: What are the ethical implications for lawyer mediators, arbitrators and dispute resolution providers when the lines between the roles of lawyers and the non-lawyers who are representing clients in dispute resolution become blurry? Traditionally, non-lawyer advocates (hereinafter NARs) have represented clients in the negotiations, mediation and arbitration of legal matters without cause for concern. Yes, labor union representatives, sports agents, and special education advocates are three familiar examples of non-lawyers who represent clients in negotiations, mediations and arbitrations, informing clients of their legal rights. Routinely, the lawyers and neutrals presiding over the dispute resolution procedure have warmly welcomed these non-lawyers, viewing these non-lawyers as valued participants who provide their clients beneficial subject matter expertise to help resolve the legal dispute at hand. However, that welcome has now turned tepid and tentative as FINRA and its neutrals question the ethics of some of those non-lawyers who are representing clients in FINRA arbitration. The FINRA-NAR issue is actually a reflection of a broader problem: How do we ensure access to justice for all? For many, the escalating costs of retaining lawyers presents a barrier in their quest to access justice. In lieu of lawyers, some are seeking a more affordable alternative and are turning to NARs. This topic calls into question whether we truly believe in the clients’ right to self-determination in which they are free to choose their own representative when participating in a dispute resolution procedure or whether we adopt a more maternalistic stance, believing clients need to be protected when selecting a representative. We are also forced to confront the limitations of access to justice for all and the remedies we are willing to support to right this egregious wrong. Yes, this problem is also entrenched in the politics of maintaining the exclusivity of the legal profession. Ultimately, however, this issue forces us to personally consider as lawyer mediators and arbitrators what it means to us to maintain a dispute resolution procedure of integrity.
Modeling Nonlinear and Time-Dependent Behaviors of Polymeric Sandwich Composites at Various Environmental Conditions

Polymeric sandwich composites are appealing for lightweight structures that require high strength and stiffness such as parts of aircraft, marine vessels and wind turbine blades. During service, polymeric sandwich composites are subjected to static and cyclic mechanical loading, in addition to a constant exposure to hostile environments. In addition, one of the characteristics of polymers is their prominent viscoelastic response when subjected to mechanical loading and the viscoelastic response of polymers becomes more pronounced at elevated temperatures and high humidity. Coupled mechanical loading and hostile environments cause the constituents of the sandwich structures to experience different time-dependent behavior and degradation, leading to complex failure mechanisms in sandwich composites. The aim of this study is to be able to predict the performance of sandwich composites subjected to mechanical loading histories and various environmental conditions, by incorporating knowledge of the behavior of each constituent (skins and core). We present experiments and numerical analyses in order investigate the overall mechanical response of two sandwich composite systems and their constituents, immersed in fluid at 50 °C. It is seen that different failure behaviors are observed in the two sandwich composites, which are strongly influenced by the response of the constituents.
Measuring While Drilling in Florida Limestone for Geotechnical Site Investigation

Florida limestone can be challenging to recover during coring operations, as the rock generally is soft, porous, and often highly weathered. Low recoveries coupled with poor rock quality are common...
CHRFAM7A reduces monocyte/macrophage migration and colony formation in vitro.

CHRFAM7A is a unique human gene that encodes a dominant negative inhibitor of the α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. We have recently shown that CHRFAM7A is expressed in human leukocytes, increases cel–cell adhesion, and regulates the expression of genes associated with leukocyte migration. Human THP-1, RAW264.7 and HEK293 cells. Cell migration, cell proliferation and colony formation in soft agar to compare the biological activity of vector vs. CHRFAM7A-transduced cells. We show that gene delivery of CHRFAM7A into the THP-1 human monocytic cell line reduces cell migration, reduces chemotaxis to monocyte chemoattractant protein, and reduces colony formation in soft agar. Taken together, the findings demonstrate that CHRFAM7A regulates the biological activity of monocytes/macrophages to migrate and undergo anchorage-independent growth in vitro.
Abstract A18: Personalized RNA nanoparticles remodel the HNSCC immunologic milieu to unlock immunotherapeutic activity

Introduction: Immunotherapy is promising for patients with treatment-refractory head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). However, greater than 80% do not respond to checkpoint inhibitors, suggesting that the highly immunosuppressive immune microenvironment of HNSCC mediates therapeutic resistance. Our group has developed a novel treatment platform utilizing clinically translatable RNA-nanoparticles (NPs) to remodel the systemic and intratumoral HNSCC immune microenvironment to enable potent immunotherapeutic activity. Objective: The purpose of this study is to examine the immunologic effects and antitumor efficacy of tumor-derived RNA-NPs in murine models of oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OCSCC). Materials and Methods: Tumor-derived RNA-NPs were prepared by complexing in vitro transcribed mRNA from MOC1 cells (syngeneic murine oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma cell line) with nanoliposomes. These complexes were injected into MOC1 tumor-bearing C57BL/6 mice. Immunogenicity was determined from spleens and tumors by multiparameter flow cytometry and qPCR analysis. Efficacy was assessed based on subcutaneous tumor volume measurements. Results: Personalized tumor RNA-NPs mediated significant increases in systemic and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs). Compared to control animals, RNA-NPs increased peripheral CD8+ T cells (p=0.0007) and decreased regulatory immune cells [CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ (Tregs)] (p=0.0043). WIthin the tumor microenvironment, RNA-NPs increased intratumoral CD3+CD8+ T cells (p =0.0278) and CD3+CD4+ T cells (p=0.0307). qPCR on MOC1 tumors revealed elevated expression of the effector cytokine interferon-γ (NP alone vs. RNA-NP; fold change 1.309 vs. 90.13) and reduced gene expression of arginase-1 (NP alone vs. RNA-NP; fold change 1.29 vs. 0.005), suggesting that RNA-NPs can attenuate the immunosuppressive microenvironment. Compared to control animals or mice receiving PD-L1 monotherapy, RNA-NPs mediated significantly greater antitumor efficacy based on subcutaneous tumor volume measurements (p Conclusion: RNA-NPs reprogram the peripheral and intratumoral HNSCC immune microenvironments and unlock antitumor activity in preclinical models. We have successfully generated tumor-derived RNA-NPs as a renewable resource that can be made readily available for HNSCC patients from a small tissue sample. FDA-IND enabling studies are currently under way in preparation for first-in-human trials. Citation Format: Natalie L. Silver, Rekha R. Garg, Hector R. Mendez-Gomez, Kristianna Fredenberg, Spencer Barnes, Frances L. Weidert, Peter Dziegielewski, Sayour J. Elias, Duane A. Mitchell. Personalized RNA nanoparticles remodel the HNSCC immunologic milieu to unlock immunotherapeutic activity [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR-AHNS Head and Neck Cancer Conference: Optimizing Survival and Quality of Life through Basic, Clinical, and Translational Research; 2019 Apr 29-30; Austin, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2020;26(12_Suppl_2):Abstract nr A18.
Toward a resilient complex adaptive system view of business models

Abstract This paper employs the theory of resilient complex adaptive systems (RCAS) to offer a versatile and universal foundation for the concept of a business model that facilitates connections between prior works while enabling future exploration with a common language. The proposed business model construct is developed by first exploring the field of systems to highlight how the concept of an RCAS can be employed to provide a more robust conceptualization of a business model than previous constructs. A thematic analysis of the literature is then conducted to translate the fundamental requirements of an RCAS into the business model context. This system view is inherently abstraction tolerant and provides a foundation for both academic research and practical applications. Specifically, it addresses two key gaps in the business model literature. First, the comprehensive nature of the system model naturally calls out important aspects of business models that have been largely ignored in the literature. Second, the construct provides a comprehensive means to connect the work of business model scholars and practitioners outlined in more than 150 studied articles, highlighting how each earlier research effort has employed a construct that is actually part of a grander whole.
DNA extraction and host depletion methods significantly impact and potentially bias bacterial detection in a biological fluid

ABSTRACT Abstract Untargeted sequencing of nucleic acids present in food can inform the detection of food safety and origin, as well as product tampering and mislabeling issues. The application of such technologies to food analysis could reveal valuable insights that are simply unobtainable by targeted testing, leading to the efforts of applying such technologies in the food industry. However, before these approaches can be applied, it is imperative to verify that the most appropriate methods are used at every step of the process: gathering primary material, laboratory methods, data analysis, and interpretation. The focus of this study is in gathering the primary material, in this case, DNA. We used bovine milk as a model to 1) evaluate commercially available kits for their ability to extract nucleic acids from inoculated bovine milk; 2) evaluate host DNA depletion methods for use with milk, and 3) develop and evaluate a selective lysis-PMA based protocol for host DNA depletion in milk. Our results suggest that magnetic-based nucleic acid extraction methods are best for nucleic acid isolation of bovine milk. Removal of host DNA remains a challenge for untargeted sequencing of milk, highlighting that the individual matrix characteristics should always be considered in food testing. Some reported methods introduce bias against specific types of microbes, which may be particularly problematic in food safety where the detection of Gram-negative pathogens and indicators is essential. Continuous efforts are needed to develop and validate new approaches for untargeted metagenomics in samples with large amounts of DNA from a single host. Importance Tracking the bacterial communities present in our food has the potential to inform food safety and product origin. To do so, the entire genetic material present in a sample is extracted using chemical methods or commercially available kits and sequenced using next-generation platforms to provide a snapshot of what the relative composition looks like. Because the genetic material of higher organisms present in food (e.g., cow in milk or beef, wheat in flour) is around one thousand times larger than the bacterial content, challenges exist in gathering the information of interest. Additionally, specific bacterial characteristics can make them easier or harder to detect, adding another layer of complexity to this issue. In this study, we demonstrate the impact of using different methods in the ability of detecting specific bacteria and highlight the need to ensure that the most appropriate methods are being used for each particular sample.
Perspective on Crystallographic Studies of Antibody Structures

In the past 50 years, there has been a great progress made in understanding and deploying antibodies in biology, medicine, and therapy. In this study, a brief overview is presented on how the crystal structures of antibody fragments guided therapeutic strategies emanating from our laboratories along with some historical perspective.
SDLCQ and string/Field theory correspondences☆

Abstract String/Field theory correspondences have been discussed heavily in recent years. Here, we describe a testing scenario involving a non-perturbative field theory calculation using the framework of supersymmetric discrete light-cone quantization (SDLCQ). We consider a Maldacena-type conjecture applied to the near horizon geometry of a D1-brane in the supergravity approximation. Numerical results of a test of this conjecture are presented with orders of magnitude more states as we previously considered. These results support the Maldacena conjecture and are within 10–15% of the predicted results. We present a method for using a “flavor” symmetry to greatly reduce the size of the Fock basis and discuss a numerical method that we use which is particularly well suited for this type of matrix element calculation. Our results are still not sufficient to demonstrate convergence, and, therefore, cannot be considered to be a numerical proof of the conjecture. We update our continuous efforts to improve on these results and present some results on the way to higher dimensional scenarios.
Hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) processing of unhydrolyzed solids (UHS) for hydrochar and its use for asymmetric supercapacitors with mixed (Mn,Ti)-Perovskite oxides

Abstract In this study, the unhydrolyzed solid (UHS) derived from corn stover was hydrothermally processed to generate heavy bio-oil (HBO) and hydrochar. In particular, hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) was carried out in a 300 mL high temperature and high pressure reactor with the slurry of UHS in de-ionized (DI) water, and the effect of reaction temperature, initial nitrogen pressure, reaction time, and UHS to solvent ratio on hydrochar generation was investigated. HTL processed slurries were filtered to recover the solid residue, which was extracted with acetone to recover heavy bio-oil (HBO). The solid residue was thermally treated further at 400 °C to produce hydrochar, which was thoroughly characterized by BET, SEM/EDX, FTIR and Raman spectroscopy. Results indicated that as temperature of HTL process increased from 250 to 300 °C, hydrochar yield decreased. Increase in HTL temperature also resulted in decrease in BET specific surface area (SSA) and pore volume; however, increase in pore diameter. HTL parameters such as initial N2 pressure, reaction time, and UHS:water ratio was found to influence the yield, BET SSA, pore volume and pore diameter. SEM images showed porous structure whereas surface functional groups with O-H, >C C
Modeling of Injection Locking in Neurons for Neuromorphic and Biomedical Systems

We present an approach to characterizing and modeling spiking neurons based on the theory of the impulse sensitivity function (ISF). The ISF concept, originally developed for the design of electronic oscillators, is applied and extended to neurons. The analysis and design of synchronization, entrainment, and phase locking in neurons is accomplished using ISF theory. A circuit example of a biomimetic silicon leaky-integrate- and-fire neuron with positive feedback is presented, and the neuron's ISF is characterized. The insights gained allow the neuron's injection locking behavior, lock range, and relative phase to be predicted and optimized. Close agreement between theory and simulation is demonstrated.
Escaping the Stiffness Trap: Adhesion Strength and Contractility Enable Metastatic Cells to Become Adurotactic

Significant changes in cell stiffness, contractility and adhesion, i.e. mechanotype, are observed during a variety of biological processes. Whether cell mechanics merely change as a side effect of or driver for biological processes is still unclear. Here we sort genotypically similar metastatic cancer cells into strongly adherent (SA) versus weakly adherent (WA) phenotypes to study how contractility and adhesion differences alter the ability of cells to sense and respond to gradients in material stiffness. We observe that SA cells migrate up a stiffness gradient, or durotax, while WA cells largely ignore the gradient, i.e. adurotax. Biophysical modeling and experimental validation suggest that differences in cell migration and durotaxis between weakly and strongly adherent cells are driven by differences in intra-cellular actomyosin activity. These results provide a direct relationship between cell phenotype and durotaxis and suggest how, unlike other senescent cells, metastatic cancer cells navigate against stiffness gradients.
Virtual Assistant for Forensics Recovery of IoT Devices

The rapid expansion and diversity of technology throughout society have impacted the growing knowledge gap in conducting analysis on IoT devices. The IoT digital forensic field lacks the necessary tools and guidance to perform digital forensics on these devices. This is mainly attributed to their level of complexity and heterogeneity that is abundant within IoT devices—making the use of a JTAG technique one of the only ways to acquire information stored on an IoT device effectively. Nonetheless, utilizing a JTAG technique can be challenging, especially when having multiple devices with each possibly having its own configuration. To alleviate these issues within the field, we propose the development of an Internet of Things – Forensics Recovery Assistant (IoT-FRA). The IoT-FRA will offer the capabilities of an expert system to assist inexperienced users in performing forensics recovery of IoT devices through a JTAG technique and analysis on the device's capabilities to develop an organized method that will prioritize IoT devices to be analyzed.
To Lumbar Puncture or Not to Lumbar Puncture: A Case of Lyme Neuroborreliosis

Lyme disease is a zoonotic infection increasing in prevalence across the United States. While the recognition of its classic clinical signs is sufficient to establish the diagnosis in the early stages, the diagnosis of Lyme neuroborreliosis (LNB) may be challenging and the diagnostic approaches may have to be tailored. We report a rare case of early disseminated LNB presenting with features of Banwarth syndrome in the form of painful radiculoneuritis, motor weakness, and facial palsy in a middle-aged female who presented to an Upstate New York Hospital during summer. Lyme antibody testing was found to be positive at a level of 11.70 by enzyme immunoassay and Western Blot was IgM positive with three out of three reactive borrelial proteins. Lumbar puncture was not performed per the patient’s preference. Otherwise, the laboratory workup along with MRI of the brain and cervical spine were grossly unremarkable. The patient was treated with a four-week course of oral doxycycline with resolution of all her symptoms. The diagnostic value of lumbar puncture in certain presentations of LNB remains controversial and is further discussed in this review.
The Prospect of Fiscal Dominance in the United States: A New Quantity Theory Perspective

The U.S. national debt is now near 100 percent of GDP and is expected to double that by 2050, according to the Congressional Budget Office. This change in U.S. public finance has some observers worried that a regime of fiscal dominance may soon emerge, making monetary policy subservient to fiscal policy. This paper provides an alternative interpretation of these facts: the elevated debt-to-GDP alongside well-anchored inflation expectations reflects an elevated real demand for government securities. This interpretation can be shown using a New Quantity Theory that falls out of the recent work on the Fiscal Theory of the Price Level with a bubble.
Problem Solving and Computation for Scientists and Engineers: An Introduction Using C

1. Problems, Algorithms and Computer Programs. 2. The C Language and Some Elementary Algorithms. 3. Numerical Analysis. 4. Linear Algebra. 5. Data Structures. 6. Sorting and Searching. 7. Graphics. 8. Probabilistic Simulation. 9. Object Oriented Programming and C++. Appendix: Other Parts of the C Language.
Exploration of bounded motion near binary systems comprised of small irregular bodies

To investigate the behavior of a spacecraft near a pair of irregular bodies, consider a three-body configuration (one massless). Two massive bodies, $$P_1$$ and $$P_2$$ , form the primary system; each primary is modeled as a sphere or an ellipsoid. Two primary configurations are addressed: ‘synchronous’ and ‘non-synchronous’. Concepts and tools similar to those applied in the circular restricted three-body problem are exploited to construct periodic trajectories for a third body in synchronous systems. In non-synchronous systems, however, the search for third body periodic orbits is complicated by several factors. The mathematical model for the third-body motion is now time-variant and the motion of $$P_2$$ is not trivial.