cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
FDA Escherichia coli Identification (FDA-ECID) Microarray: a Pangenome Molecular Toolbox for Serotyping, Virulence Profiling, Molecular Epidemiology, and Phylogeny

ABSTRACT Most Escherichia coli strains are nonpathogenic. However, for clinical diagnosis and food safety analysis, current identification methods for pathogenic E. coli either are time-consuming and/or provide limited information. Here, we utilized a custom DNA microarray with informative genetic features extracted from 368 sequence sets for rapid and high-throughput pathogen identification. The FDA Escherichia coli Identification (FDA-ECID) platform contains three sets of molecularly informative features that together stratify strain identification and relatedness. First, 53 known flagellin alleles, 103 alleles of wzx and wzy , and 5 alleles of wzm provide molecular serotyping utility. Second, 41,932 probe sets representing the pan-genome of E. coli provide strain-level gene content information. Third, approximately 125,000 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of available whole-genome sequences (WGS) were distilled to 9,984 SNPs capable of recapitulating the E. coli phylogeny. We analyzed 103 diverse E. coli strains with available WGS data, including those associated with past foodborne illnesses, to determine robustness and accuracy. The array was able to accurately identify the molecular O and H serotypes, potentially correcting serological failures and providing better resolution for H-nontypeable/nonmotile phenotypes. In addition, molecular risk assessment was possible with key virulence marker identifications. Epidemiologically, each strain had a unique comparative genomic fingerprint that was extended to an additional 507 food and clinical isolates. Finally, a 99.7% phylogenetic concordance was established between microarray analysis and WGS using SNP-level data for advanced genome typing. Our study demonstrates FDA-ECID as a powerful tool for epidemiology and molecular risk assessment with the capacity to profile the global landscape and diversity of E. coli. IMPORTANCE This study describes a robust, state-of-the-art platform developed from available whole-genome sequences of E. coli and Shigella spp. by distilling useful signatures for epidemiology and molecular risk assessment into one assay. The FDA-ECID microarray contains features that enable comprehensive molecular serotyping and virulence profiling along with genome-scale genotyping and SNP analysis. Hence, it is a molecular toolbox that stratifies strain identification and pathogenic potential in the contexts of epidemiology and phylogeny. We applied this tool to strains from food, environmental, and clinical sources, resulting in significantly greater phylogenetic and strain-specific resolution than previously reported for available typing methods.
Abstract 4335: CEA: A therapeutic target for the treatment of advanced colorectal cancer.

Introduction: Advanced colorectal cancer (CRC) remains the second most common cause of cancer mortality worldwide. Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) represents one of the few biomarkers approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Ectopic expression of CEA induces CRC metastases, potentially indirectly through activation of STAT3, stimulating production of IL-6, IL-10 and others. Yet until recently a clear mechanism of CEA in tumorigenesis has remained elusive. Our study demonstrated that CEA inactivates the tumor suppressive arm of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling, providing crucial new mechanistic information for CEA in promoting aggressive CRC. Moreover, we previously found that deletion of Smad3/4 adaptor β2SP results in loss of TGF-β signaling, with dramatic and spontaneous formation of CRC, presenting a strong mouse model of CRC. We hypothesized that CEA interacts through a specific site targeting the TGF-β pathway potentially TGF-βRI leading to aggressive colorectal cancers. Impeding this interaction by using specific antibodies or peptide inhibitors may be used as a therapeutic agent to treat advanced CRC. Methods & Results: We observed that CEA interacts directly with the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) receptor 1 (TGF-βR1) and causes inhibition of downstream TGF-β tumor suppressor signaling. Targeting CEA with either an anti-CEA specific antibody or siRNA-mediated CEA silencing restores the tumor suppressive properties of TGF-β signaling. Detailed analysis of this interaction revealed the D7 fragment of CEA responsible for binding with TGF-β receptor I and capable of inhibiting tumor suppressor function of TGF-β signaling as evident by the ability of D7 fragment to reduce phospho -Smad3 level upon TGF-β stimulation. In human CRC, increased CEA levels are associated with loss of TGF-β signaling. Immunohistochemical analysis of the CRC revealed induction of phospho STAT3 level compared to normal colon tissue. To impede the CEA mediated suppression of growth inhibitory TGF-β signaling we are currently using antibodies which block this interaction and reinforce tumor suppressor TGF-β signaling. Conclusions: Our results demonstrate that CEA induces CRC metastasis through interacting with TGF-βR1 and suppressing growth inhibitory TGF-β signaling pathway which is mediated by the D7 fragment of CEA. Inhibiting the interaction of CEA and TGF-βR1 using peptide inhibitors/antibodies /small molecule inhibitors will be very useful in preventing CRC cell growth and proliferation. Thus the study holds promise to generate novel therapeutic agents for the treatment of lethal metastatic CRC. Citation Format: Avijit Majumdar, Ying Li, Sue-Hwa Lin, Lopa Mishra. CEA: A therapeutic target for the treatment of advanced colorectal cancer. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4335. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-4335
The Text of Julius Caesar in the Second Folio: Two Notes

perturbation! golden care!" Shakespeare may have thought of Paradin while writing more than one play. Pericles has too many difficulties for study of one source to resolve them; but the evidence of sources must be heeded, however one explains the uneven text we have. The role of Paradin in the play suggests one author shaping profound symbols of fortune and divine harmony like those we know elsewhere as Shakespeare's.
Contact lens fitting in keratoconus.

In this review, we will discuss past and current approaches to the contact lens correction of keratoconus
Continuous Processing of Milk Fat with Supercritical Carbon Dioxide

Milk fat fractionation is an area of current research which holds potential for development of novel ingredients with varied functional properties based on their unique physical and chemical characteristics. As a first approximation, the ability to manipulate solvating power of supercritical fluids by varying density, offers a feasible approach to customized fractionation of milk fat by the phenomena of selective distillation and extraction. Research on milk fat fractionation with supercritical carbon dioxide (SC-CO2), as with most other commercial uses of this technology, has thus far concentrated mostly on batch systems. With fluids, such as milk fat, which can be continuously pumped at high pressures, it is reasonable to anticipate that the processing time can be minimized and the economics made more favorable (1).
Abstract 2451: Cancer stem cell survival postradiation in medulloblastomas requires YAP, YB1, and IGF2

Sonic hedgehog (Shh)-mediated medulloblastoma growth requires IGF2 (Insulin-like Growth Factor 2) and we recently showed that Yes Associated Protein (YAP1) induces IGF2 expression by Y-box protein 1(YB1) in Shh-stimulated cerebellar granule neural precursors (CGNPs), proposed cells-of-origin for the Shh molecular subclass of medulloblastoma, and mouse Shh-medulloblastoma cells. We found elevated levels of YAP1, YB1 and IGF2 in tumor cells occupying the peri-vascular niche, a microenvironmental niche proposed to house so-called tumor re-populating cells that survive radiation and contribute to medulloblastoma recurrence, which is fatal. We have developed an ex vivo approach using organotypic brain tumor slice cultures to better understand how YAP1, YB1, and IGF2 regulate peri-vascular niche cell survival post-radiation. We observed that the perivascular niche cell population expressing stem cell markers increases markedly following exposure to radiation. Additionally, on targeting any component of the YAP1-YB1-IGF2 axis we observed increased level of cell death within the niche and compromised cancer stem cell niche expansion post-radiation. These findings strongly indicate that therapeutic approaches intended to impair the function of this pathway could be used to reduce the use of cranio-spinal radiation of medulloblastoma patients, which causes life-long side effects that drastically impair quality of life. Citation Format: Abhinav Dey, Caroline Maier, Anshu Malhotra, Anna Kenney. Cancer stem cell survival postradiation in medulloblastomas requires YAP, YB1, and IGF2. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 107th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2016 Apr 16-20; New Orleans, LA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(14 Suppl):Abstract nr 2451.
Remunerative Combinatorics: Mathematicians and Their Sponsors in the Mid-Twentieth Century

Conventional wisdom notwithstanding, mathematics is not cheap. Particularly in the era of mathematics following World War 2 and accelerating after the Cold War, where mathematicians’ extensive regional and international travel for workshops, seminars, conferences, and residencies became the norm, the problem of funding mathematical research and publication has relied upon one of the most consequential areas of interaction between mathematicians and non-mathematicians—namely, relations between mathematicians and their financial sponsors. This chapter examines the work of the American organizers of the 1950 International Congress of Mathematicians to marshal a wide range of state, philanthropic, corporate, and intergovernmental interests in support of their discipline, with a focus to the lasting effects of World War 2 on their efforts. I argue that money-driven processes of elaboration and accommodation shaped both the framing and substance of mathematicians’ research, pedagogy, and professional organization at mid-century.
New frontiers in the treatment of systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis

Systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA) and its most significant complication, macrophage activation syndrome (MAS), have traditionally been treated with steroids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications. However, the introduction of biologic medications that inhibit specific cytokines, such interleukins 1 and 6, has changed the treatment paradigm for sJIA patients. In this review, we discuss the therapies currently used in the treatment of sJIA as well as novel targets and approaches under consideration, including mesenchymal stromal cell therapy and JAK inhibitors. We also discuss targeting cytokines that have been implicated in MAS, such as interferon gamma and interleukin 18.
Optimal Phase Advance Under Fault-Tolerant Control of a Five-Phase Permanent Magnet Assisted Synchronous Reluctance Motor

In this paper, optimal phase advances under fault-tolerant control (FTC) of a five-phase permanent magnet assisted synchronous reluctance motor (PMa-SynRM) have been proposed under different fault conditions. Critical applications where the consistency and safety are the major concerns in automotive and aerospace industries require reliable control systems. The multiphase motor is considered a promising candidate for these applications as it has redundant phases primarily for fault-tolerant operation. However, advanced FTC for a PMa-SynRM with maximization of reluctance torque has been limitedly studied until now. In the conventional approach, to maintain constant magnetomotive force under fault conditions, phase currents of a motor need to increase significantly. However, this will easily saturate the PMa-SynRM resulting in significantly reduced reluctance torque. To overcome this issue, this paper proposes a novel phase current control method that maximizes the reluctance torque with minimum phase current. Here, a phase current control with a novel phase advance has been proposed under various fault conditions. Extensive theoretical and experimental analysis has been carried out to verify the effectiveness of the proposed idea with 5-hp dynamo system controlled by TI DSP F28335.
Teaching Neuro Images: RCVS causing simultaneous convexity subarachnoid hemorrhage and hemimedullary infarction

A 34-year-old previously healthy man presented with thunderclap headache, dysphagia, dysarthria, and oscillopsia. Neurologic examination revealed right-beating nystagmus, dysphagia, hypophonia, right hemianesthesia, and left hemiparesis. Brain imaging showed convexity subarachnoid hemorrhage (figure 1A) and left hemimedullary infarct (figure 1B). Catheter angiography showed tapering of left vertebral artery and diffuse segmental vasoconstriction (figure 2). Routine serum and CSF results were unremarkable. Thorough infectious, immunologic, and coagulopathy workup was negative. Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) is associated with severe headache, stroke, brain edema, and hemorrhage characterized by transient, multifocal intracranial vessel vasoconstriction.1 RCVS can cause simultaneous ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke.2
Evaluation and development of flood-tolerant soybean cultivars

Soybean (Glycine max [L.] Merr.) cultivars are generally sensitive to flooding stress. The plant growth is severely affected and grain yield is largely reduced in the flooded field. It is important to develop flood-tolerant soybean cultivars for grain production in regions of heavy rainfalls worldwide. In this study, a total of 722 soybean genotypes were evaluated for flooding tolerance at R1 stages (first flower at any node) in the 5-year flooding screening tests. Differential soybean genotypes exhibited diverse responses to flooding stress with that plant foliar damage score (FDS) and plant survival rate (PSR) ranged from 1.9 to 8.8 and 3.4% to 81.7%, respectively (p < .0001). Based on our standard of flooding evaluation, most genotypes were sensitive to flooding with 6.0 of average FDS and 38.7% of PSR. Fifty-two soybean genotypes showed flooding tolerance and 11 genotypes were with consistent flooding tolerance during 4- to 5-year continual evaluations. In the meantime, six genotypes were identified with consistent high sensitivity to flooding. The group analysis showed that genotypes from different sources had distinguishable responses to flooding stress (p < .0001). The interacting analysis of year and flooding tolerance indicated that FDS and PSR means were significantly different among 5 years due to weather temperature and flooding treatment time influences of each year (p < .0001). Furthermore, five breeding lines with high-yielding and flood-tolerant traits were developed using selected consistent flood-tolerant and high-yielding genotypes through conventional breeding approach.
Colorectal Cancer Safety Net: Is It Catching Patients Appropriately?

BACKGROUND Disparities in access to colorectal cancer care are multifactorial and are affected by socioeconomic elements. Uninsured and Medicaid patients present with advanced stage disease and have worse outcomes compared with similar privately insured patients. Safety net hospitals are a major care provider to this vulnerable population. Few studies have evaluated outcomes for safety net hospitals compared with private institutions in colorectal cancer. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to compare demographics, screening rates, presentation stage, and survival rates between a safety net hospital and a tertiary care center. DESIGN Comparative review of patients at 2 institutions in the same metropolitan area were conducted. SETTINGS The study included colorectal cancer care delivered either at 1 safety net hospital or 1 private tertiary care center in the same city from 2010 to 2016. PATIENTS A total of 350 patients with colorectal cancer from each hospital were evaluated. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Overall survival across hospital systems was measured. RESULTS The safety net hospital had significantly more uninsured and Medicaid patients (46% vs 13%; p < 0.001) and a significantly lower median household income than the tertiary care center ($39,299 vs $49,741; p < 0.0001). At initial presentation, a similar percentage of patients at each hospital presented with stage IV disease (26% vs 20%; p = 0.06). For those undergoing resection, final pathologic stage distribution was similar across groups (p = 0.10). After a comparable median follow-up period (26.6 mo for safety net hospital vs 29.2 mo for tertiary care center), log-rank test for overall survival favored the safety net hospital (p = 0.05); disease-free survival was similar between hospitals (p = 0.40). LIMITATIONS This was a retrospective review, reporting from medical charts. CONCLUSIONS Our results support the value of safety net hospitals for providing quality colorectal cancer care, with survival and recurrence outcomes equivalent or improved compared with a local tertiary care center. Because safety net hospitals can provide equivalent outcomes despite socioeconomic inequalities and financial constraints, emphasis should be focused on ensuring that adequate funding for these institutions continues. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A454.
Meta-analysis of atopic dermatitis studies (HUM1P.269)

Several independent studies been conducted to understand the genetic and environmental factors influencing the cause of atopic dermatitis, which is an inflammatory skin disorder. To leverage the power of combining the studies we downloaded seven publicly available datasets on atopic dermatitis from ImmPort data portal (https://immport.niaid.nih.gov/). These studies include wide range of molecular and cellular measurements like ELISA, flow and complete blood count (CBC) across multiple cohort and various sample types. We have taken the meta-analysis approach to understand the factors influencing the disease phenotype by integrating the datasets measured under different conditions to find the associations between independent and combined effects. The molecular and cellular measurements were normalized such that data is comparable across studies. We have found a strong association of certain inflammatory cytokines in atopic dermatitis patients under specific conditions, and perturbations in certain cell types of these patients. We also evaluate the influence of gender, age and vaccine response in atopic dermatitis patients with respect to healthy controls.
Framework for Research on Implementation of Process Redesigns.

Background Complex system interventions benefit from close attention to factors affecting implementation and resultant outcomes. This article describes a framework for examining these factors in process redesign (PR) and for assessing PR outcomes. Methods Using literature scans and expert comment on draft frameworks based on the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research, a team of researchers developed the PR framework for the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. As a case study, an independent team of researchers in a large care system subsequently applied the PR framework to implementation of Lean-based primary care redesigns. Results The PR framework adds 2 domains to the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research, focused on relevant measures of implementation and outcomes, as well as some new constructs to the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. Using the PR framework to guide a study of primary care PR, researchers found that the health care reform environment encouraged staff recognition of need for redesign, but physicians worried about key redesign issues, including colocation with care team partners and the competencies of the individuals assigned to manage new workflows. Team member acceptance of the redesign was also influenced by other features of the implementation process and contextual features, including the decision style of the local clinic. Conclusions The PR framework helped guide the qualitative study and aided researchers in informing their leadership about critical issues affecting PR implementation.
Structural principles of tumor necrosis factor superfamily signaling.

Gloss Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) superfamily pathways regulate cell proliferation, cell death, and morphogenesis. TNF superfamily receptors mediate various cancers and immune-mediated diseases. Understanding of the mechanisms of TNF superfamily signaling and the structure and geometry of ligands, receptors, and their interactions is essential to designing effective agonist and antagonist drugs. In this review, consisting of four figures, one table, and 96 references, we discuss our current understanding of TNF ligand-receptor conformations and how this informs signaling and the design of current and prospective therapeutics.
Mixed-matrix materials using metal–organic polyhedra with enhanced compatibility for membrane gas separation

Discrete metal-organic polyhedra (MOPs) containing copper(ii), palladium(ii), and iron(ii) nodes were synthesized as fillers for mixed-matrix materials (MMMs) with a polyvinylidine fluoride (PVDF) polymer phase and contrasted against an MMM containing a metal-organic framework, MOF-5. When a given MOP was soluble in the precursor solutions, the resulting MMMs were thin, flexible, and homogeneous based on microscopy and SEM imaging. Analogous MMM formation using either insoluble MOPs or the inherent insoluble MOF-5 showed a higher degree of phase separation and inhomogeneity. Even when a MOP was not fully soluble, a significant particle size decrease was observed in contrast to the MOF-5 materials wherein the crystallites remained largely intact. This is a consequence of solubilizing the MOP fillers into the polymer solvent. The crystallinity and thermal stabilities of the MMMs were compared to pure PVDF using powder X-ray diffraction, and differential scanning calorimetry, indicating that the incorporation of MOPs both decreased overall crystallinity as well as increased thermal stability. In addition, MMMs containing PdMOP and FeMOP showed improved gas permeabilities relative to pure PVDF for H2, N2, CH4, and CO2, with the 10 wt% FeMOP membrane more selective for CO2 over N2 and H2.
Veterans Affairs and Department of Defense Integrated Systems of Mental Health Care

The Global War on Terror (GWOT) and associated campaigns (Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation New Dawn) resulted in an immediate need for veteran medical and mental health services. Since fiscal year 2002, nearly two million veterans became eligible for Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) care. Of that total, 1,185,160 (61%) were former active duty, while 754,799 (39%) were either National Guard or Reserve component. Of this cohort, 685,540 (57.6%) carry a mental health diagnosis with 378,993 diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), making this diagnosis the most common mental health disorder evaluated at VA facilities for this population. The National Center for Veterans Analysis and Statistics anticipates the number of VA-eligible post-9/11 veterans to expand to nearly 3.4 million by 2018. To meet the needs of the expanding, dynamic composition of the eligible veteran population with mental health treatment needs, the Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs developed an integrated model of mental health services. The continuum of mental health services begins with service-specific mental health resources consisting of established military treatment facilities, programs, and partnerships and continues through programs developed to assist transition of in-need service members to the VA behavioral health system of care. Integration of community outreach, primary care, specialty behavioral health, inpatient, residential, and rehabilitative services provides service members and veterans with a continuum of mental health services unavailable prior to GWOT.
Ahmed Khaled Towfik: Days of Rage and Horror in Arabic Science Fiction

When Egyptian author Ahmed Khaled Towfik died unexpectedly in 2018, he left behind a vast and richly imagined body of literature. The following article examines one thread of Towfik’s literary universe: the interconnectivity of moral decadence, information and communication technology, and revolution. Examining in detail Towfik’s major works from the post-2011 period, this article also brings into focus the greater arc of Arabic science fiction and the relationship of the nascent genre to the region’s largely static history of utopic political movements.
Implicit Theories of Relationships and Conflict Communication Patterns in Romantic Relationships: A Dyadic Perspective

The present study examined the relationship between dyadic interaction patterns and implicit theories of relationships (ITRs; deeply held beliefs about the nature of relationships) using a sample of N = 104 couples. We hypothesised that destiny beliefs would predict greater avoidance in conflict interactions, while growth beliefs would predict more constructive communication. Surprisingly, the results of the current study challenge the existing literature by indicating that neither destiny nor growth beliefs predict constructive communication or mutual avoidance for the couple. Further, while destiny beliefs were related to increased withdrawal in a demand-withdraw pattern, growth beliefs related to both demand and withdraw in a demand-withdraw pattern. These findings suggest that assessing the relationship between ITRs and communication patterns at the couple level introduces complexity that is underexplored in the current literature on implicit theories of relationships.
Single-center experience of the FIRM technique to ablate paroxysmal and persistent atrial fibrillation

Introduction Focal impulse and rotor modulation (FIRM)-guided ablation has had mixed results of published success, and most studies have had a follow-up for a year or less. We aimed to study a consecutive group of patients followed for at least 1.5 years, subgrouped into those with an initial FIRM ablation and those with a previous, failed ablation who now received a FIRM guided one, to evaluate for success in each group and factors that might affect success. Methods Of 181 patients, 167 were available for analysis. Group 1 (n = 122) had a first or primary ablation (paroxysmal atrial fibrillation [PAF] 51; persistent atrial fibrillation [PeAF] 71) and group 2 (n = 45) had a redo ablation (PAF 18; PeAF 27). All patients were done under general anesthesia. FIRM mapping was done in the right atrium first and then the left, and only rotors consistently seen on multiple epochs were ablated, using 15 to 30 W. Rotor ablation was discontinued when remapping showed elimination of rotational activity at the site. Wide area catheter ablation was done for pulmonary vein isolation (PVI). Routine follow-up was at 3, 6, and 12 months of the first year, with a Holter monitor at 6 months, and then every 6 months thereafter. Event recorders were given to patients with potential arrhythmic symptoms. Results Mean follow-up was 16 months. Nearly 40% of patients had obstructive sleep apnea; mean body mass index was 32; and average left atrial size was 39.7 mm and 46.2 mm for PAF and PeAF patients, respectively. Freedom from atrial arrhythmia recurrence was: in group 1 patients, 82.4% for PAF and 67.6% for PeAF patients; in group 2 patients, 83.3% for PAF, but only 40.7% for PeAF patients. Comparing outcomes for the first 10 patients studied to the next 20 or more done by three operators showed no difference, suggesting no learning curve affecting the ablation results. Furthermore, the univariate analysis did not show any demographic factor to have an independent significance for ablation success or failure. Spontaneous termination during rotor ablation occurred in 76.8% of PAF and 27.6% of PeAF patients but did not affect the long-term outcomes for maintenance of sinus rhythm. Conclusions FIRM-guided atrial ablation plus PVI in our patient population resulted in good success from a recurrence of atrial arrhythmias in patients undergoing an initial ablation procedure. For those with persistent AF undergoing a second procedure now using FIRM guidance plus PVI, the results are lower. Further research is needed to define better the appropriate population for FIRM-guided ablation and the degree of ablation needed for success in these patients.
Incentive Control in Network Anti-Coordination Games with Binary Types

We investigate control strategies that maximize disagreement in type-based anti-coordination network games. Each node is a player and each edge represents payoff dependence between the neighboring players where, depending on their types, have an incentive to play different strategies. We assume there is a preferred strategy in the absence of network effects. Players follow a distributed learning dynamics based on the process of iterated elimination of dominated strategies. In this setting, we propose a disagreement maximization problem. First, we seek to find the minimum number of players to control while ensuring the dynamics converge to maximum possible disagreement. We characterize the control strategies in line networks that achieve optimal results, and propose an algorithm for general networks that are approximately optimal.
CO and H2O Time Histories in a Shock-Heated H2S/CH4 Blend Near Atmospheric Pressure

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) makes up a significant percentage of certain natural gas resources (sour gas) and is known to have significant effects on a variety of fuel systems. Key to the understanding of sour gas chemistry are H2S and methane (CH4) interactions, although relatively few data are available for this system. In this study, a fuel-lean (φ = 0.5) 30/70 H2S/CH4 blend in 99% argon by volume was shock-heated to temperatures between 1538 and 1889 K and pressures near 1 atm. Time histories of CO and H2O were measured using laser absorption diagnostics at 4.5 and 1.4 μm. The diagnostics were employed in two high-purity, stainless steel shock tubes. The predictions of several recent chemical kinetics mechanisms were compared to the measured profiles and induction times for CO and H2O. Based on these comparisons, it was concluded that the interactions of species containing both carbon and sulfur are negligible at the conditions studied herein. It was also concluded that the CH4 chemistry dominates at these conditions. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first shock tube study of the H2S/CH4 system.
Constitutive Equations and Free Surfaces

Abstract The general theory of perturbations of rigid body motions of simple fluids with applications to free surface problems is discussed. The general theory is utilized to explain phenomena exhibited in the movie “Novel Weissenberg Effects” by G.S. Beavers and D.D. Joseph.
A 79-year-old with acute portal vein thrombosis.

The patient, who had a history of polymyalgia rheumatica treated with corticosteroids, presented with chills and fever.
Wedge-direct sums of table algebras and applications to association schemes, II

Abstract Extensions of association schemes and table algebras have been studied in many papers in the last two decades. A remarkable operation (the Blau-construction) on two table algebras in [3] provides an important method to construct the extension of table algebras. The wedge-direct sum of a sequence of table algebras introduced in Part I (see [14] ) is a useful tool for the study of structures and characterizations of table algebras. Using the wedge-direct sum of a sequence of table algebras, in Part I we gave a new perspective on the Blau-construction, and obtained a clear description of the structure of table algebras constructed by recursively applying the Blau-construction. p-table algebras (p-schemes) are an important class of table algebras (association schemes). In this part we will give the characterization and classification of a class of p-table algebras, by showing that they are isomorphic to the wedge-direct sum of a sequence of group algebras of finite p-groups. In order to determine whether two distinct sequences of table algebras yield the isomorphic wedge-direct sums or not, we will need to discuss the redundancy of the wedge-direct sum, and prove a Krull-Schmidt type theorem. Applications to association schemes will also be discussed.
Non-Contact Vital Signs Monitoring for Multiple Subjects Using a Millimeter Wave FMCW Automotive Radar

Technology for in-cabin non-contact monitoring of driver vital signs is a growing area of interest for automotive applications. This has been spurred in part by successful demonstrations of remote sensing of human physiological motion using radar, for healthcare applications. However, most reported physiological radar results have focused on the use of continuous wave radar operating between the 2.4 GHz up to 24 GHz, to monitor a single, isolated subject. There is a recent paradigm shift in the automotive radar industry towards the use of W-band frequency modulated continuous wave radar. This research investigates the feasibility of extracting vital signs information for both single and multi-subject scenarios, utilizing a newly developed 76–81 GHz FMCW single channel architecture automotive radar. Chirp parameters and signal processing steps were developed to extract phase information for signals reflected from tiny movement of a subject's chest surface. Beam steering techniques were used to isolate the respiratory signatures for individual subjects from radar signals reflected simultaneously from multiple subjects. Experimental results showed that independent respiratory signatures could be isolated and measured for subjects separated by a 30° angular discrimination limit.
Multiple dimensions of religiosity, self-regulation, and psychological adjustment among emerging adults

Religiosity has been associated with positive psychological adjustment during emerging adulthood. However, the unique effects of specific dimensions of religiosity on emerging adults’ mental health and the underlying mechanisms are less understood. This study examined the mediating role of self-regulation between three dimensions of religiosity (religious commitment, religious engagement, and religious struggle) and psychological adjustment among 258 Christian emerging adults (Mage = 20.09 years, SD = 1.58; 74% female) in the United States. Participants reported on their religiosity, self-regulation, psychological well-being, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. The three dimensions of religiosity were uniquely associated with psychological adjustment through self-regulation. Specifically, religious commitment was associated with higher levels of self-regulation, and in turn, more positive psychological adjustment; whereas religious engagement and religious struggle were associated with lower levels of self-regulation, and in turn, more negative psychological adjustment. Our findings suggest that acceptance and internalization may be essential for religiosity to promote emerging adults’ self-regulation abilities, and in turn, benefit their mental health. In contrast, behavioral participation in religious activities without internal identification may be detrimental for emerging adults’ self-regulation and hinder their psychological adjustment. These findings highlight the importance of examining religiosity as a multidimensional construct to better understand the distinct effects of different religious dimensions on emerging adults’ mental health.
Multimodal Detection of Drivers Drowsiness and Distraction

Considering the ever-growing presence of automobiles around the world, ensuring the safety of those on and near roadways is of great importance. From the causes of accidents, drowsiness and distractedness are among the most consequential. In this paper, we use a multimodal dataset consisting of 11 recorded channels over 45 subjects to model driver’s drowsiness and distraction. Our work puts forward the application of this dataset by using segmented windows as features, resulting in four main contributions. We explore the performance of each individual modality and specify which signals and features have a better capability of detecting drowsiness and different kinds of distractions. In addition, we analyze the effects of early fusion on the classification of the driver’s state using multiple physiological and thermal channels. Finally, we use cascaded late fusion and test three voting strategies to evaluate the performance of our proposed approach. Our results confirm the effectiveness of utilizing a multimodal approach in detecting both drowsiness and distraction as two separate factors influencing the driver and provide guidelines on which signals are appropriate for detecting different driver’s states.
Memory and tradition in the book of Numbers

1. Desert bound 2. Weaving by design 3. Priestly purposes 4. Variations on a theme: shaping memory in the wilderness 5. Crisis and commemoration: the use of ritual objects 6. Falling in the wilderness: politics of death and burial 7. Inheriting the land.
THE RELATION OF THE VITAMIN B6 HUMAN REQUIREMENT TO THE AMOUNT IN THE DIET.

Publisher Summary This chapter provides the observational and experimental data on the estimation of vitamin B 6 requirement of infants and young adults and discusses the effect of age on the amounts of vitamin B 6 and some other vitamins in the tissues. The chapter describes the amount of vitamin B 6 in representative American diets. One of the ways in which the B 6 requirement has been estimated was based on the energy requirement or expenditure. An estimate of the B 6 requirement needs to be informed by data from two sources: (1) from tests based on intermediary metabolism and (2) on the extent of individual variation in the B 6 requirement by a number of different tests. Surveys of infant diets in the United States indicate that the great majority provide more than 0.3 mg daily. The factor of age needs to be taken into account. There is a strong case for increasing the B 6 in the food supply. The B 6 requirement does not depend on the calorie production or requirement and with the recommendation for people to eat less the number with unsatisfactory B 6 intake will increase unless the food is made to contain more B 6 .
Increasing dynamic range of practical microwave spectrum analysis by reducing or compensating system noise

The dynamic range of many spectrum measurements can be improved by 10 dB or more by compensating for, or subtracting, the thermal noise and/or phase noise of the measuring device - microwave spectrum analyzer. Through a combination of careful measurements and straightforward mathematical operations, engineers working on microwave measurements can achieve the high dynamic range required by modern communications and radar systems.
A Note on Optimal Portfolio Selection and Diversification Benefits with a Short Sale Restriction on Real Estate Assets

This paper develops an optimal portfolio selection technique when short sales on real estate assets are restricted. Using the well-known mean-variance efficient concept, we are able to derive the o...
Effects of housing temperature on stress-induced hyperthermia in mice, and the associated change in voluntary motor activity (1105.1)

Many studies that investigate stress-induced hyperthermia (SIH) in rodents were conducted on mice housed under ambient temperatures (Ta) of 20-22°C, which can induce chronic stress due to cold exposure. Further, SIH in mice is associated with an increase in voluntary motor activity (VMA). Given that VMA can be affected by Ta and that VMA can be a major source of heat production, we hypothesized that the amplitude of SIH, and the relationship between SIH and VMA, is affected by Ta. Two groups of 8 male mice, housed either at 21 or 27°C, were exposed to treatments known to induce varying levels of stress. For both groups. the treatments resulted The treatments for both groups resulted in an increasing SIH (control<handling<water spill<cage switch<clean cage) that was correlated to VMA; the slopes of the relationship between SIH and VMA did not differ between groups. The absolute amplitude of SIH of mice housed at 27oC was significantly higher (by 0.45°C) than mice housed at 21°C, but the relative amplitude ...
A Technical Guide for Policy Surveillance

Law can be a powerful tool in improving population welfare. Laws can, for example, help keep people safe and healthy by encouraging the use of seat belts, or by reducing the release of toxins into our environment. Laws can also have important unintended effects, both positive and negative, or can simply fail to produce the benefits that were intended. The key to understanding the impact of the law through quantitative evaluation is to monitor changes in the law across jurisdictions, and over time, and evaluate how these changes impact population outcomes. Not only does measurement of the law allow us to understand which jurisdictions have effective laws, but it also helps us to understand the elements of policies that work best, allowing us to craft better laws that produce better results. “Policy surveillance” is the ongoing, systematic collection, analysis and dissemination of information about laws and other policies of social importance. It is the most efficient way to measure the law, create data for analyses and disseminate information about the state of the law. The foundation of policy surveillance is the legal dataset. An empirical legal dataset is a set of quantitative measurements that represent the observable characteristics or the mechanistic features of a body of law across jurisdictions and over time. While legal and other researchers have been compiling 50-state surveys of law for decades, scientific standards and methods for creating legal mapping studies have not been developed or shared. This Technical Guide, the product of a Delphi Process conducted by PHLR, is a first attempt at codifying consensus standards and methods for the creation of scientific legal datasets and the conduct of policy surveillance. It includes guidance for setting the scope of a dataset, conducting legal research and coding, publishing datasets, updating, and quality control.
Horizontal array passive inversion in range-independent environments

Survey techniques for geo-acoustic bottom characteristics are expensive and time consuming. The U.S. Navy has investigated several inversion techniques to characterize seabed sediments, most of which use active sonar and a vertical array. Passive techniques offer the potential to remain covert and extend the area of seabed characterization. This paper describes a passive approach, called Passive Geo-Acoustic Inversion Techniques (PGAIT) that uses matched-field processing on signals from ships of opportunity for water sound speed and sediment characterization. The signals are received on a horizontal array and broadband and temporal averaging techniques are used to reduce ambiguities. The algorithms are robust to environmental model mismatch and usually produce an output that is sufficient to identify sediment types. PGAIT performance is demonstrated at frequencies between 110 and 190 Hz in several sediment conditions, ranging from very soft to very hard and with several water mixed-layer depths. The results show that: 1) inversion can be effective on a horizontal array; 2) sediment properties are much easier to estimate than mixed-layer depths; and 3) incorrect assumptions about the assumed sound-speed profile do not significantly affect the results.
Aging Does not Affect Beta-Agonist Responsiveness after Methacholine-Induced Bronchoconstriction

Objectives: To assess the response to an inhaled beta-agonist alone or in combination with an anticholinergic agent after methacholine-induced bronchoconstriction in four age groups. Design: Retrospective analysis. Setting: Pulmonary function laboratory in a university-affiliated hospital. Participants: Seven hundred sixty-four consecutive subjects with a 20% reduction or more in forced expiratory volume during the first second (FEV1) of exhalation from total lung capacity after inhaling 189 or fewer cumulative units of methacholine were included in the analysis. Intervention: The first 382 subjects received three inhalations of metaproterenol (total of 1.95 mg), and the other 382 subjects received three inhalations of albuterol and ipratropium combination (total of 309 μg of albuterol and 54 μg of ipratropium) after methacholine-induced bronchoconstriction. Measurements: The response to bronchodilators was assessed as the postbronchodilator percentage change in FEV1 and the percentage of subjects recovering to 90% or better of baseline FEV1 after the use of bronchodilator. Results: The percentage change in FEV1 postbronchodilator in the elderly was similar to that of the younger subjects. The percentage of subjects who recovered to 90% or better of their baseline FEV1 postbronchodilator was also similar in the elderly and younger age groups. Response to metaproterenol was similar to that of the albuterol/ipratropium combination in all age groups (all P>.05). Conclusion: Aging does not affect bronchodilator response to beta-agonist after methacholine-induced bronchoconstriction. The responsiveness to beta-agonist alone is similar to the responsiveness to the combination of beta-agonist and anticholinergic agent in all age groups.
Atrial myxoma. II. Phonocardiographic, echocardiographic, hemodynamic, and angiographic features in nine cases.

Abstract Nine cases of atrial myxoma, seven left and two right, have been diagnosed and successfully treated in the past five years. The phonocardiographic, echocardiographic, hemodynamic, and angiographic features are discussed in detail.
Understanding the Nature and Scope of Domestic Elder Abuse with the Use of State Aggregate Data

This study summarizes the major findings of a survey of the state adult protective service (APS) agencies and state units on aging concerning domestic elder abuse reports, conducted by the National Aging Resource Center on Elder Abuse (NARCEA) in the fall of 1991. Data on reports of domestic elder maltreatment supplied by states were aggregated and analyzed, and descriptive summaries of key data items were prepared. In addition, using some of the statistics gathered by the survey and existing relevant information, an attempt was made to determine the national incidence of domestic elder abuse, the preliminary results of which are presented here.
THE USE OF GLUCAGON-GEL IN IDIOPATHIC SPONTANEOUS HYPOGLYCEMIA OF INFANCY.

The response of idiopathic spontaneous hypoglycemia of infancy and childhood to therapy is variable. There is no single therapeutic agent which will uniformly maintain blood sugar concentration in the normal range in these patients. It has been suggested that a long-acting glucagon preparation may be of value when idiopathic spontaneous hypoglycemia is refractory to control by diet, corticosteroids, ACTH, ephedrine, or various combinations of these agents. It is the purpose of this paper to report our experiences with glucagon in maintaining the blood sugar concentration of a patient with idiopathic spontaneous hypoglycemia. Case Report History and Physical Examination: A 6-month-old Mexican-American boy was evaluated for convulsions which had begun at 2½ months of age.