cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Anaerobic bioconversion of phthalic acid esters by natural inocula

Abstract The anaerobic bioconversion of selected phthalic acid esters (PAEs) was investigated using inocula from diverse natural habitats. Results of bioconversion studies indicated that di‐n‐butyl phthalate (DBP) and butyl benzyl phthalate (BBP) levels were reduced by 80% and 50%, respectively, after 4 weeks incubation in samples inoculated with diluted anaerobic digester sludge; greater than 90% bioconversion of DBP and BBP was observed in samples inoculated with either anaerobic freshwater or salt marsh sediment. Bis(2‐ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) was not degraded by any inocula tested. The persistence of DEHP was apparently not associated with DEHP toxicity to indigenous microflora.
Iron series Hartree-Fock calculations

Seventy-six Hartree-Fock calculations have been completed for the iron series (Sc to Cu) atoms and ions. All calculations are for the ${(3d)}^{n}$ type of configuration (i.e., no $4s$ electrons are present). The results are discussed, but due to lack of space, are not presented here. Comparisons are made with the experimental ionization and multiplet spectra. Agreement is poor due to limitations in the Hartree-Fock formalism. The results are used in an effort to gain information concerning correlation energies.
Advances in real time lidar spectroscopy

We summarize the resolution limits and potential sensitivity of existing Hoar-spectrometer systems. The spectral resolution of these systems is limited primarily by the phase space area (entendue), which depends on the width and convergence angle of the laser beam's image on the spectrometer input slit. Decreasing the beam's image width can be achieved with conventional optics at the expense of an increase in convergence angle, which often results in a loss in coupling efficiency due to mismatching with the spectrometer's phase space area. We describe how this limitation has been overcome using suitably designed optical fiber bundles. We also discuss both theoretical and computer modeling predictions of the variation in telescope-to-spectrometer coupling efficiency with range for lidar spectrometers. Finally we compare the performance of photon counters and intensified CCD arrays and discuss methods of range-gating their outputs.
Instrumental Variable Estimation in Generalized Linear Measurement Error Models

Abstract Instrumental variable estimation in generalized linear measurement error models are studied. For models with canonical link functions, unbiased estimating equations are derived. The maximum likelihood estimator for the normal theory, structural linear instrumental variable model is shown to be a solution to the estimating equations derived herein. Logistic regression is studied in detail. An example is given and a simulation study described for the logistic model based on the Framingham Heart Study data.
Exceeding expectations and clustering uncertain data

Database technology is playing an increasingly important role in understanding and solving large-scale and complex scientific and societal problems and phenomena, for instance, understanding biological networks, climate modeling, electronic markets, etc. In these settings, uncertainty or imprecise information is a pervasive issue that becomes a serious impediment to understanding and effectively utilizing such systems. Clustering is one of the key problems in this context.In this paper we focus on the problem of clustering, specifically the k-center problem. Since the problem is NP-Hard in deterministic setting, a natural avenue is to consider approximation algorithms with a bounded performance ratio. In an earlier paper Cormode and McGregor had considered certain variants of this problem, but failed to provide approximations that preserved the number of centers. In this paper we remedy the situation and provide true approximation algorithms for a wider class of these problems.However, the key aspect of this paper is to devise general techniques for optimization under uncertainty. We show that a particular formulation which uses the contribution of a random variable above its expectation is useful in this context. We believe these techniques will find wider applications in optimization under uncertainty.
Enhanced Polynomial Chaos-Based Extended Kalman Filter Technique for Parameter Estimation

The Generalized Polynomial Chaos mathematical technique, when integrated with the Extended Kalman Filter method, provides a parameter estimation and state tracking method. The truncation of the series expansions degrades the link between parameter convergence and parameter uncertainty which the filter uses to perform the estimations. An empirically derived correction for this problem is implemented, that maintains the original parameter distributions. A comparison is performed to illustrate the improvements of the proposed approach. The method is demonstrated for parameter estimation on a regression system, where it is compared to the Recursive Least Squares method.
Nonstoichiometry, Defect Structure and Energetics in T (La 2 MO 4 ; M=Cu, Ni) and T′ (Nd 2 CuO 4 ) Structures

Atomistic computer simulation is performed to investigate the extent and nature of nonstoichiometry in La 2 CuO 4 , and La 2 NiO 4 . Results suggest anion Frenkel to be the dominant intrinsic defect in both compounds. Spontaneous oxidation is predicted for La 2 NiO 4 but not for La 2 CuO 4 ; however, both compounds are more easily oxidised than reduced, as opposed to Nd 2 CuO 4 , a superconducting compound with same generic formula. Oxidation takes place via accommodation of oxygen interstitials; however, the possibility of metal vacancies can not be completely ignored in La 2 CuO 4 . There is only one favorable oxygen interstitial site which is same in both the compounds La 2 MO 4 (M=Cu, Ni). We found a favorable oxygen interstitial site in T′ structure too. Relaxed structures around an oxygen interstitial in these compounds are reported.
The Biomechanics of Arterial Aneurysms

The formation of an arterial aneurysm is believed to be a multifactorial and predominantly degenerative process, resulting from a complex interplay between biological processes in the arterial wall and the hemodynamic stimuli on the vessel’s wall. Once an aneurysm forms, the repetitive pressure and shear stresses exerted by the blood flow on the weakened arterial wall generally, but not always, cause a gradual expansion. As the wall geometry, composition, and strength progressively degrade through the enlargement process, the aneurysm ruptures when the wall of the distended artery fails to support the stresses resulting from the internal blood flow. This review surveys recent progress in this area and provides a critical assessment of the contribution made by hemodynamics studies to the current understanding of the pathogenesis of the disease and to its clinical management.
Race, ethnicity, and the use of services for mental disorders: results from the National Survey of American Life.

Context Little is known about differences in the unmet need for mental health service use between African Americans and Caribbean blacks. Objective To extend the National Survey of Black Americans by examining 12-month mental health service use for African Americans and Caribbean blacks from the recently completed National Survey of American Life. Design and Setting National household probability samples of noninstitutionalized African Americans and Caribbean blacks (blacks from Caribbean area countries now living in the United States) conducted between February 2001 and June 2003, using a slightly modified World Mental Health version of the World Health Organization's Composite International Diagnostic Interview. Participants A total of 3570 African Americans and 1621 Caribbean blacks 18 years and older (N = 5191). Main Outcome Measures Proportion of respondents with 12-month DSM-IV disorders who sought help in the specialty mental health, general medical, human service, and complementary-alternative medicine treatment sectors. The percentage receiving minimally adequate treatment was also assessed. Results Overall, 10.1% of respondents used some form of mental heath care services in the past year. Use of services was much higher among those who met criteria for a 12-month DSM-IV disorder (31.9%) than among those who did not (5.4%). Forty-nine percent of respondents with serious mental illness used services, whereas 39.3% had contact with mental health care specialists. The youngest and oldest age groups were least likely to obtain any services. Among African Americans, women were more likely than men to use general medical care and services from any sector. Respondents with the most years of education showed the highest use of services. Conclusions The underuse of mental health services among black Americans remains a serious concern. Educational interventions that focus on both consumers and mental health care professionals are needed.
Effect of exercise on hemodynamic conditions in the abdominal aorta.

Purpose: The beneficial effect of exercise in the retardation of the progression of cardiovascular disease is hypothesized to be caused, at least in part, by the elimination of adverse hemodynamic conditions, including flow recirculation and low wall shear stress. In vitro and in vivo investigations have provided qualitative and limited quantitative information on flow patterns in the abdominal aorta and on the effect of exercise on the elimination of adverse hemodynamic conditions. We used computational fluid mechanics methods to examine the effects of simulated exercise on hemodynamic conditions in an idealized model of the human abdominal aorta. Methods: A three-dimensional computer model of a healthy human abdominal aorta was created to simulate pulsatile aortic blood flow under conditions of rest and graded exercise. Flow velocity patterns and wall shear stress were computed in the lesion-prone infrarenal aorta, and the effects of exercise were determined. Results: A recirculation zone was observed to form along the posterior wall of the aorta immediately distal to the renal vessels under resting conditions. Low time-averaged wall shear stress was present in this location, along the posterior wall opposite the superior mesenteric artery and along the anterior wall between the superior and inferior mesenteric arteries. Shear stress temporal oscillations, as measured with an oscillatory shear index, were elevated in these regions. Under simulated light exercise conditions, a region of low wall shear stress and high oscillatory shear index remained along the posterior wall immediately distal to the renal arteries. Under simulated moderate exercise conditions, all the regions of low wall shear stress and high oscillatory shear index were eliminated. Conclusion: This numeric investigation provided detailed quantitative data on the effect of exercise on hemodynamic conditions in the abdominal aorta. Our results indicated that moderate levels of lower limb exercise are necessary to eliminate the flow reversal and regions of low wall shear stress in the abdominal aorta that exist under resting conditions. The lack of flow reversal and increased wall shear stress during exercise suggest a mechanism by which exercise may promote arterial health, namely with the elimination of adverse hemodynamic conditions. (J Vasc Surg 1999;29:1077-89.)
A comparison of whole-body vibration and resistance training on total work in the rotator cuff.

Abstract Context: Whole-body vibration machines are a relatively new technology being implemented in the athletic setting. Numerous authors have examined the proposed physiologic mechanisms of vibr...
Implementing Electronic Medical Record Systems

The US healthcare industry is a massive information enterprise, yet it's surprisingly inefficient when it comes to information management. Some estimates put it decades behind other industries with respect to information technology (IT) adoption and utilization. In fact, an article in the Journal of Healthcare Management described the industry as a knowledge-based enterprise that doesn't consider knowledge part of its value proposition. A 2003 report found the healthcare industry spending 2 percent of gross revenues on IT compared to 10 percent for other information-intensive industries, such as banking. The consequences of this health IT gap are matters of life and death. In 1999, the US National Academies' Institute of Medicine published a report, To Err Is Human: Building a Safer Health System, which attributed between 44,000 and 98,000 deaths per year to medical errors. Subsequent studies have confirmed a general assessment of healthcare delivery system as inefficient, unreliable, and even dangerous.
Evaluation of smoking prevention television messages based on the elaboration likelihood model

Progress in reducing youth smoking may depend on developing improved methods to communicate with higher risk youth. This study explored the potential of smoking prevention messages based on the Elaboration Likelihood Model (ELM) to address these needs. Structured evaluations of 12 smoking prevention messages based on three strategies derived from the ELM were conducted in classroom settings among a diverse sample of non-smoking middle school students in three states (n = 1771). Students categorized as likely to have higher involvement in a decision to initiate cigarette smoking reported relatively high ratings on a cognitive processing indicator for messages focused on factual arguments about negative consequences of smoking than for messages with fewer or no direct arguments. Message appeal ratings did not show greater preference for this message type among higher involved versus lower involved students. Ratings from students reporting lower academic achievement suggested difficulty processing factual information presented in these messages. The ELM may provide a useful strategy for reaching adolescents at risk for smoking initiation, but particular attention should be focused on lower academic achievers to ensure that messages are appropriate for them. This approach should be explored further before similar strategies could be recommended for large-scale implementation.
Discharge coefficients through perforated plates at reynolds numbers of 400 to 3,000

The correlation of Kolodzie and Van Winkle (3) for predicting dry plate orifice coefficients through perforated plates originally covering a Reynolds number range of 2000 to 20,000 has been extended to apply to Reynolds numbers as low as 400. The correlation applies to column diameters ranging from 3 to 15 in.
Enucleation of the rat pheochromocytoma clonal cell line, PC12: effect on neurite outgrowth.

The effect of removal of PC12 cell nuclei on neurite outgrowth was studied. Enucleation (80–90%) was accomplished in the presence of cytochalasin B using a centrifugation technique that exploited the very tight adhesivity of PC12 cells for a substratum composed of an extracellular matrix secreted by bovine corneal endothelial cells in response to epidermal growth factor treatment. Neither nucleated nor enucleated PC 12 cells showed significant neurite outgrowth on this particular matrix in the absence of nerve growth factor. In the presence of nerve growth factor both PC12 cell types initiated neurite outgrowth, but whereas neurites from nucleated cells grew continuously for two days, those from enucleated cells reached a maximum length after one day. The results suggest that neurite initiation but not continued neurite growth or stabilization can occur in the absence of transcription.
Unexpected properties of a laser resonator with volumetric Bragg grating end mirrors

A pair of nearly identical volumetric Bragg gratings held at different temperatures serving as the end mirrors of a Ti:sapphire laser made possible very narrow output linewidth and enabled easy optimization of the laser output.
TRANSFORMATION INTO TREATMENT: NOVEL THERAPEUTICS THAT BEGIN WITHIN THE CELL

Neuronal and vascular injury associated with several disease entities, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and cerebrovascular disease was initially believed to be irreversible. Yet, it has become increasingly evident that either acute or chronic modulation of the cellular and molecular environment within the brain can prevent or even reverse cellular injury. Irrespective of the initial insult to the nervous system, the activity and interplay among specific cellular signal transduction pathways in a cell will ultimately determine the extent of injury to the brain. In order to develop rational, efficacious, and safe therapy against neurodegenerative disorders, one must first elucidate potentially critical cellular pathways that control neuronal and vascular injury. In particular, previously unrecognized cellular mechanisms that are endogenous to the brain, but may have been considered without close association to the nervous system may offer the most novel and potent therapeutic strategies.
Comparing the performance of a new disposable pneumatic tocodynamometer with a standard tocodynamometer

Introduction The goal was to test a newly developed pneumatic tocodynamometer (pTOCO) that is disposable and lightweight, and evaluate its equivalence to the standard strain gauge-based tocodynamometer (TOCO). Material and methods The equivalence between the devices was determined by both mechanical testing and recording of contractile events on women. The data were recorded simultaneously from a pTOCO prototype and standard TOCO that were in place on women who were undergoing routine contraction monitoring in the Labor and Delivery unit at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. In this prospective equivalence study, the output from 31 recordings on 28 pregnant women that had 171 measureable contractions simultaneously in both types of TOCO were analyzed. The traces were scored for contraction start, peak and end times, and the duration of the event was computed from these times. Results The response curve to loaded weights and applied pressure were similar for both devices, indicating their mechanical equivalence. The paired differences in times and duration between devices were subjected to mixed-models analysis to test the pTOCO for equivalence with standard TOCOs using the two-one-sided tests procedure. The event times and duration analyzed simultaneously from both TOCO types were all found to be significantly equivalent to within ±10 s (all p-values ≤0.0001). Conclusion pTOCO is equivalent to the standard TOCO in the detection of the timing and duration of uterine contractions. pTOCO would provide a lightweight, disposable alternative to commercially available standard TOCOs.
Unscented Transformation based estimation of parameters of nonlinear models using heteroscedastic data

This paper addresses the issue of estimating the parameters of nonlinear models using heteroscedastic data. A weighted least squares problem formulation where the sum of the Mahalanobis distance for all measurements is minimized, forms the framework of this paper. Determining the Mahalanobis distance requires the gradient of the cost function with respect to the noisy measurements which can be computationally expensive and infeasible for model which are discontinuous. A derivative free approach to determine the Mahalanobis distance as an error metric is proposed using the Unscented Transformation. The advantages of using the proposed approach include: a black box approach to evaluate the gradient weighted objective function precluding the need for analytical gradients and an improved estimation of the covariance. Numerical results for various applications such as triangulation using radar measurements, ellipse, and super ellipse fitting demonstrate the benefits of the proposed approach. Heteroscedastic data resulting from real X-ray images are also used to illustrate the potential of the proposed approach. HighlightsDerivative free approach of solving gradient weighted least squares problems.Improved approximation of the geometric distance for curve fitting.Improved performance of proposed technique demonstrated on three benchmarks.Monte Carlo used to benchmark the reduction in bias in estimated parameters.Relevant to model fitting problems with heteroscedastic data.
Organoclay Nanoplatelets at the Air/water Interface

We have demonstrated that films of single clay platelets can be produced by the Langmuir technique where a solution of organoclay particles dissolved in xylene was spread at the air water interface. The total thickness of the layer was found to be 21 ± 3A which is in good agreement with previous X-ray diffraction data. Scanning probe microscopy showed the individual platelets to be rectangular in shape with an aspect ratio in excess of 100 to 1 and of uniform organic surfactant coverage.
Fluorescence and protein structure. X. Reappraisal of solvent and structural effects.

Abstract 1. 1.|Quantum efficiencies of fiuorescence and emission maxima were measured in a number of solvents for tryptophanyl and tyrosyl peptides, as well as simpler derivatives of indole and phenol. Fluorescence was internally quenched by carbonyl groups but this occurred only when the molecule was solvated by a hydrogen-bonding solvent such as water or an alcohol. In non-polar organic solvents, quenching by the carbonyl group was lost and fluorescence rose to values of the parent indole and phenol compound. 2. 2.|Fluorescence quenching occurred with derivatives that contained unionized acid, amide, ester and peptide groups. These groups, when present on other solute molecules, did not quench; that is, external quenching of indole and phenol by amides, esters, etc. , did not occur. An amino group alone had no effect on fluorescence, but in the free amino acids and peptides an α-amino group enhanced the quenching action of a neighboring carbonyl group. Fluorometric titrations showed that this enhancement of the carbonyl quenching was in the order α -NH 3 + > α -NH 2 > H. 3. 3.|The bearing that these observations may have on fluorescence of proteins was discussed. A preliminary classification scheme for exposed and buried tryptophanyl and tyrosyl residues was described and a range of values was selected for the fluorescence efficiency of each type of residue.
Genetic modification of response to spleen shielding in irradiated mice.

SummaryIt appears that the protective effect of spleen-shielding in irradiated mice may be genetically conditioned, and related to the importance of the spleen in the hematopoietic system of each strain.
TRANEXAMIC ACID REDUCES HAEMOGLOBIN DRIFT IN PRIMARY TOTAL KNEE ARTHROPLASTY

Introduction Allogeneic blood transfusion (ABT) remains a widely used therapeutic intervention in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA). There is mounting evidence that tranexamic acid (TXA), a powerful antifibinolytic, can significantly reduce perioperative blood loss with a concomitant lower ABT rate. In May 2012, TXA intravenous infusion was introduced as standard therapy in all patients undergoing major hip and knee arthroplasty. The TXA protocol included infusing 1 gm prior to incision and 1 gm after lowering the tourniquet. Nadir hemoglobin (Hb) level has been shown to be the single most important predictor of ABT in patients undergoing TKA. It is often used as the main trigger for ABT and in research trials examining restrictive transfusion trials. There is a paucity of information regarding the impact of TXA on Hb levels in patients undergoing primary TKA. The purpose of this retrospective study was to examine the impact of TXA on hemoglobin levels in primary TKA patients. Methods Patients undergoing primary single, or bilateral, TKA from a single orthopedic surgeon from the years 2009–2010 before TXA infusion (n=78) were compared to patients undergoing the same operation after TXA was introduced as a therapeutic intervention (n=97). TKA is a very standardized operation that has stayed consistent over the convening years in terms of surgical technique and intra-operative management. The following Hb values were selected for analysis between the two groups: pre-surgical Hb value, immediate post-operative Hb, nadir Hb, and discharge Hb. Paired t-test was used for analysis with p-value set at 0.05. Additional data analysis included: length of stay (LOS) and rate of ABT. Results Demographically, the control group was younger compared to the experimental group (60 vs. 64 years). Table 1 shows the difference in the selected Hb values between the two groups. There was no difference in Hb values going into surgery between the two groups. For all other Hb values, there was a significant difference between the control group and the TXA group throughout the postoperative period. In addition, Hb drift was significantly lower in the TXA group compared to the control group by 0.7 g/dl. ABT rate was 4% for the TXA group and 50% for the control group. The control group had a higher LOS compared to the TXA, 4.9 vs. 4.3 days. Conclusion TXA infusion in the intraoperative period is an effective therapeutic intervention for reducing the downward drift of Hb levels throughout the postoperative period in patients undergoing TKA, and in turn, significantly impacts ABT rate and resource utilization.
Adaptive Analytic Service for Real-Time Internet of Things Applications

Emerging Internet of Things(IoT) applications are moving from silo and small scale sensor data sharing to composite and large scale ones. With the rapid growth of application scale, IoT applications is going to leverage cloud infrastructure for scalable solutions and real-time services. Thus large volumes of heterogeneous and high frequency sensor data are fed into IoT cloud services for real-time actionable insight, which raises great challenges of performance and adaptability on cloud solutions. In this paper, we propose a streaming based processing infrastructure for high throughput and low latency IoT real-time analytics services. A data adaptive mechanism is also introduced for heterogeneous data stream integration, interpreting and processing with application logics, as well as context stream. We implemented the proposed mechanisms with spark streaming, and deployed real time IoT analytics service in cloud. Experiment results show that the service has a good scalability and high throughput for IoT data analytics.
Numerical Investigation of Shock-Train Response to Inflow Boundary-Layer Variations

A dataset of normal shock trains in a rectangular cross-section channel has been created from direct numerical simulations in an effort to quantify the impact of inflow confinement ratio on the sho...
Depth perception differences in athletes reporting a concussion history

Objective Vision testing is becoming more commonplace in concussion assessment. The purpose of our study was to determine vision domain deficits in athletes reporting a concussion history. Design Cross-sectional. Setting Clinical research centre. Subjects High school and college student-athletes (n=224; 183 males) completed a multi-modal vision and sensory performance assessment. Intervention Participants completed a valid and reliable visual performance evaluation (Nike SPARQ Sensory Station). Participants were categorised by self-reported concussion history: no history (n=158) vs. 1 or more concussions (n=66). Outcome measures The Nike SPARQ Sensory Station measures visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, depth perception, near-far quickness, target capture, perception span, eye-hand coordination, go/no-go, and reaction time. We employed Wilcoxon two-sample nonparametric analyses comparing concussion history groups for each outcome. Results Student-athletes with a concussion history (median=1553 ms) responded more slowly to primary gaze depth perception tasks than student-athletes with no concussion history (median=1363 ms; P=0.02). Left gaze depth perception also yielded significant differences between those with concussion history (median=1383 ms) and those without concussion history (median=1162 ms; P=0.03), but not right gaze depth perception (P=0.07). No other significant differences were observed (P>0.05). Conclusions Depth perception is worse in student-athletes with concussion history, suggesting the eyes’ ability to work in tandem may be compromised following concussion. It is also possible that observed visual performance differences may have previously existed and subsequently placed those athletes at a higher risk for concussion. Future prospective studies should explore the predictive value of visual performance screening in reducing concussion risk. Competing interests Wasserman – None. Dr. Mihalik has an equity interest in Senaptec LLC, a licensee of the intellectual property employed in this study.
Convergence of Random Variables

The most important aspect of probability theory concerns the behavior of sequences of random variables. This part of probability is called large sample theory, or limit theory, or asymptotic theory. The basic question is this: what can we say about the limiting behavior of a sequence of random variables X1, X2, X3,...? Since statistics and data mining are all about gathering data, we will naturally be interested in what happens as we gather more and more data.
Five Principles for Crowd-Source Experiments in Face Recognition

The past few years have seen impressive gains inlong standing and difficult problems in face recognition. Thesegains have come about through the use of deep learning algorithmsthat consist of multi-layered neural networks. In part,the success of these algorithms is due to the easy availability ofextremely large datasets of faces that are annotated and labelledby humans. The reliance on crowd-sourced data for machinelearning and algorithm evaluation raises methodological issuesthat are not widely appreciated in computer vision. Several ofthese issues have come to light in recent work using crowdsourcing to benchmark human face identification on largedatabases that are used to test face recognition algorithms. Wedefine and discuss these issues using face recognition as a casestudy. We focus on: a.) the characteristics of the human participants;b.) the difference between aggregate and fused measuresof human accuracy; and c.) the lack of standard methods forcontrolling critical characteristics of the “imposter” distributionin large and variably diverse data sets. We will show thatestimates of human accuracy can vary widely depending on howthese factors combine in any given evaluation.We conclude withrecommendations on best practices in mitigating this variabilityand arriving at stable estimates of ground truth acquired bycrowd-sourcing.
Trends in United States drug shortages for medications used in gastroenterology

IntroductionDrug shortages have become more severe in recent years; however, data describing how such shortages impact gastroenterology (GI) drugs are limited. We characterize longitudinal trends o...
Mutations in Sugar-Nucleotide Synthesis Genes Restore Holdfast Polysaccharide Anchoring to Caulobacter crescentus Holdfast Anchor Mutants.

ABSTRACT Attachment is essential for microorganisms to establish interactions with both biotic and abiotic surfaces. Stable attachment of Caulobacter crescentus to surfaces requires an adhesive polysaccharide holdfast, but the exact composition of the holdfast is unknown. The holdfast is anchored to the cell envelope by outer membrane proteins HfaA, HfaB, and HfaD. Holdfast anchor gene mutations result in holdfast shedding and reduced cell adherence. Translocation of HfaA and HfaD to the cell surface requires HfaB. The Wzx homolog HfsF is predicted to be a bacterial polysaccharide flippase. An hfsF deletion significantly reduced the amount of holdfast produced per cell and slightly reduced adherence. A ΔhfsF ΔhfaD double mutant was completely deficient in adherence. A suppressor screen that restored adhesion in the ΔhfsF ΔhfaD mutant identified mutations in three genes: wbqV, rfbB, and rmlA. Both WbqV and RfbB belong to a family of nucleoside-diphosphate epimerases, and RmlA has similarity to nucleotidyltransferases. The loss of wbqV or rfbB in the ΔhfsF ΔhfaD mutant reduced holdfast shedding but did not restore holdfast synthesis to parental levels. Loss of wbqV or rfbB did not restore adherence to a ΔhfsF mutant but did restore adherence and holdfast anchoring to a ΔhfaD mutant, confirming that suppression occurs through restoration of holdfast anchoring. The adherence and holdfast anchoring of a ΔhfaA ΔhfaD mutant could be restored by wbqV or rfbB mutation, but such mutations could not suppress these phenotypes in the ΔhfaB mutant. We hypothesize that HfaB plays an additional role in holdfast anchoring or helps to translocate an unknown factor that is important for holdfast anchoring. IMPORTANCE Biofilm formation results in increased resistance to both environmental stresses and antibiotics. Caulobacter crescentus requires an adhesive holdfast for permanent attachment and biofilm formation, but the exact mechanism of polysaccharide anchoring to the cell and the holdfast composition are unknown. Here we identify novel polysaccharide genes that affect holdfast anchoring to the cell. We identify a new role for the holdfast anchor protein HfaB. This work increases our specific knowledge of the polysaccharide adhesin involved in Caulobacter attachment and the general knowledge regarding production and anchoring of polysaccharide adhesins by bacteria. This work also explores the interactions between different polysaccharide biosynthesis and secretion systems in bacteria.
Chapter 1 Anatomy and histology of peripheral nerve

Publisher Summary This chapter describes the structure of “the other nervous system,” which is composed of delicate cables forming a dense tapestry of fibers coursing through every corner of the body, some axons destined to communicate with muscle fibers, while others projecting to the vast cutaneous network of skin terminals, and the small-diameter myelinated and unmyelinated fibers that comprise the peripheral autonomic nervous system. Neurons in the peripheral nervous system (PNS), like some cells that reside entirely within the brain and spinal cord, often traverse great distances. In the typical adult human a single dorsal root ganglion cell extends from its pacinian corpuscle in the hallux, past the cell body in the vicinity of the fifth lumbar intervertebral foramen, and up the fasciculus gracilis to its synapse with the second order neuron in the medulla. Similarly, until recent times, clinical neurophysiologic methods have largely focused on functions mediated by myelinated fibers. Advances in sensory and autonomic physiology have witnessed the development of clinically informative techniques which interrogate functions mediated by unmyelinated fibers. In addition, immunohistochemical analyses of skin nerves have opened a new avenue in the morphologic study of small myelinated and unmyelinated fibers in health and disease.
Psychological Approaches for Overturning an Immunity to Change

In this article, Deborah Helsing shows how practitioners in the helping professions—whether they be coaches, facilitators, educators, or counselors—can increase their own capacity to be effective b...
Simulation to Infer Future Performance Levels Given Assumptions

Decision makers deal with uncertainty when considering future scenarios. Performance levels depend on multiple influences with uncertain future values. To estimate future performance, managers make assumptions about likely future scenarios and uncertain future values of performance components. To evaluate decision alternatives, the “best” and “worst” case outcomes are sometimes compared. Alternatively, Monte Carlo simulation can be used to simulate random samples using decision makers’ assumptions about performance components, and those random samples can then be combined to produce a distribution of likely future scenarios and outcomes that are less extreme than the often unlikely “best” and “worst” cases. Inferences from a simulated distribution of outcomes can then be made to inform decision making. “Best” and “worst” case comparisons are contrasted with inferences from Monte Carlo simulation in this chapter.
Structural Biology of G-CSF and Its Receptor

Two structures of the helical cytokine granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) and portions of the G-CSF receptor (G-CSFR) have been reported, and each suggests a different mechanism of interaction. Interpretation of the biologic relevance of the two structures has been facilitated by comparison of the structures with the structures of other helical cytokine family members, their receptors, and modes of binding. Although little sequence identity is shared within the helical cytokine family or within the helical cytokine receptor family, helical cytokines are structurally similar, as are helical cytokine receptors. Correspondingly, although the different signaling complexes contain a varying number of cytokine and receptor chains, they are each reported to use similar modes of binding to initiate a signaling response. By considering the two G-CSF/G-CSFR structures within the context of the greater helical cytokine/cytokine receptor family, a model of the G-CSF/G-CSFR signaling complex can be proposed.
Snow Metamorphism and Classification

The flow of water vapor in dry snow and crystal growth from the vapor are reviewed to provide a basis for understanding the metamorphism of dry snow. The movement of isotopes with the vapor is also described. The growth of grains in water-saturated snow is described in some detail because it is the best known example of metamorphism. Grain clusters and melt-freeze grains dominate wet snow at low liquid contents. After the principles and observations are all described, a snow classification scheme is proposed.
Spatio-Temporally Smooth Local Mapping and State Estimation Inside Generalized Cylinders With Micro Aerial Vehicles

In this letter, we consider state estimation and local mapping with a micro aerial vehicle inside a tunnel that can be modeled as a generalized cylinder, using a three-dimensional lidar and an inertial measurement unit. This axisymmetric environment poses unique challenges in terms of localization and mapping. The point cloud data returned by the sensor consists of indiscriminate partial cylindrical patches complicating data association. The proposed method reconstructs an egocentric local map through an optimization process on a nonlinear manifold, which is then fed into a constrained unscented Kalman filter. The proposed method easily adapts to different diameters, cross sections, and changes in center line curves. The proposed approach outperforms our previous contribution [T. Ozaslan, G. Loianno, J. Keller, C. J. Taylor, V. Kumar, J. M. Wozencraft, and T. Hood, “Autonomous navigation and mapping for inspection of penstocks and tunnels with MAVs,” IEEE Robotics Automation Letter , vol. 2, no. 3, pp. 1740–1747, Jul. 2017] in terms of mapping quality and robustness to noncylindrical cross sections. Our motivation is to automate the labor intensive, dangerous, and the expensive inspection of penstocks with the least operator intervention. We present experimental results obtained in Center Hill Dam, TN, USA, to validate the proposed approach.
The influence of L1 frequency in instructed second language learning of L2 idioms

This study investigates the influence of L1 frequency on the acquisition of L2 idioms with an experiment employing structured input instruction based on the input processing model. Intermediate L2 Korean learners completed a pretest, computer-assisted instructional treatment session, and posttest. The tests included production, interpretation, and meaning tasks, which manipulated amount of context and idiom type (i.e., Shared L1-L2 idioms, which have linguistic representations in both languages and are subgrouped by high or low L1 frequency, and L2 Only idioms, which have no L1 equivalent). The results show that high L1 frequency had a consistently facilitatory effect on the learning of equivalent L2 idioms, but that context had the strongest effect on the learning of L2 idioms that have no counterpart in the L1.
Testing for Human Papillomavirus Strains 16 and 18 Helps Predict the Presence of Anal High-Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions.

BACKGROUND More than 90% of anal cancers are caused by human papillomavirus, and human papillomavirus strains 16 and 18 are the most oncogenic. Anal high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions are cancer precursors. Treating these high-grade intraepithelial lesions likely reduces the risk of cancer, but cytology is an imperfect screening test. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to determine whether human papillomavirus 16 and/or 18 testing better predicts the presence of high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions. DESIGN In this retrospective study, 894 consecutive patients underwent anal dysplasia screening with digital anorectal examination, anal cytology, high-risk human papillomavirus testing, and high-resolution anoscopy with biopsy. We calculated the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of each test and for a novel screening protocol. The absolute and relative risk of high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions for all of the cytology/human papillomavirus combinations were also calculated. SETTINGS The study was conducted at a single practice specializing in anal dysplasia. PATIENTS Ninety-two percent of participants were men who have sex with men. Forty-four percent were HIV-positive individuals who were well controlled on antiretroviral therapy. The median age was 50 years. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The presence of high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions as a function of human papillomavirus and the cytology results were measured. RESULTS High-risk human papillomavirus testing alone demonstrated better sensitivity (96% vs 89%; p = 0.03) and negative predictive value (99% vs 96%; p = 0.008) over cytology. Human papillomavirus 16/18 testing increased specificity (48% to 71%; p < 0.0001) and positive predictive value (24% to 37%; p = 0.003) over testing for all of the high-risk strains. For each cytology category, high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions were more prevalent when human papillomavirus 16/18 was detected. Benign cytology with 16/18 had a 31-fold increased risk of high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions. LIMITATIONS This study was conducted in a single private practice specializing in anal dysplasia screening with a mostly male population, and results might not be generalizable. CONCLUSIONS Testing of high-risk human papillomavirus strains 16/18 improves specificity and positive predictive value over cytology for anal dysplasia screening. Patients testing positive for strains 16/18 are at a high risk for high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions and should undergo high-resolution anoscopy regardless of the cytology result. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A654.
Counting heads vs making heads count: Impact of numeric diversity and diversity climate on psychological outcomes for faculty of color

Purpose Research on organizational diversity initiatives generally focus on either numerical diversity or racial climate. Both facets of diversity are critical, however, research has rarely examined their impact simultaneously. The paper aims to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach In the current study, the authors use the context of higher education, to examine how variations in the composite of numerical diversity and racial climate predict psychological disparities between faculty of color (FOC) and White faculty. The authors test how institutions that engage in authentic diversity (i.e. institutions that are both numerically diverse and have a positive racial climate) compare to other diversity composites. Findings Using a data set of n=37,406 faculty members in US colleges/universities, this study found that racial disparities between FOC and White faculty for various psychological outcomes are smaller in authentic diversity institutions compared to institutions with low numeric diversity/ poor racial climate. Further, the data demonstrate that authentic diversity institutions have reduced psychological disparities compared to institutions with high numeric diversity/poor racial climate, but have similar disparities to institutions with low numeric/positive racial climate. Originality/value These results suggest that diversity climate may be the primary driver of mitigating psychological disparities between FOC and White faculty. However, it is necessary for institutions to authentically engage in diversity – by promoting both entities – to become more effective in reducing disparities.
A comparison of simulated and fabricated gold bowtie nanoantennas for molecular fingerprinting

The use of nanoantennas to enhance molecular fingerprinting has an important application in the field of biomolecular reaction sensing. Nanoantennas, which are plasmonic metastructures that manipulate light to generate a localized electric field, or hotspot, can be scaled and coupled with Raman spectroscopy and surface enhancement also known as surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) to achieve single molecule structural changes, such as signal transduction mechanisms in eukaryotic cells. In this work, we explore an optimal design of nanoantennas in the bowtie configuration using computer simulation technology (CST) microwave studio and simulate gold-contact bowtie nanoantennas with varying fabrication parameters. Simulated gold-contact bowtie nanoantennas are designed with varying tip-to-tip gap distances ranging from 20-100 nm, contact thicknesses ranging from 15-45 nm, and side lengths ranging from 20-300 nm based on the protein chain lengths involved in post translational modifications within eukaryotic cells. Based on our current Jobin Yvon BX41 Confocal Raman microscope configuration, the bowtie antennas are modeled using a one-micron diameter spot and a 532 nm light source to achieve an optimized design. The nanoantenna is fabricated using electron beam lithography (EBL), electron beam evaporation and deposition (EBED), and metal lift-off process. In comparison with other demonstrations of nanoantenna-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, our design is unique for measuring protein phosphorylated events in eukaryotic cells. Based on the optimized design, electric field intensities in the gap were estimated at 7.30 V/m.
Ruin tours: performing and consuming decay in Detroit

In the face of economic, demographic, and infrastructural decline, Detroit, Michigan, has become a destination for those interested in viewing the city’s iconic ruins. Paradoxically, such tours rep...
Estimating Flight Style of Early Eocene Stem Palaeognath Bird Calciavis grandei (Lithornithidae)

Lithornithids are volant stem palaeognaths from the Paleocene-Eocene. Except for these taxa and the extant neotropical tinamous, all other known extinct and extant palaeognaths are flightless. Investigation of properties of the lithornithid wing and its implications for inference of flight style informs understood locomotor diversity within Palaeognathae and may have implications for estimation of ancestral traits in the clade. Qualitative comparisons with their closest extant volant relatives, the burst-flying tinamous, previously revealed skeletal differences suggesting lithornithids were capable of sustained flight, but quantitative work on wing morphology have been lacking. Until comparatively recently, specimens of lithornithids preserving wing feather remains have been limited. Here, we reconstruct the wing of an exceptionally preserved specimen of the Early Eocene lithornithid Calciavis grandei and estimate body mass, wing surface area, and wing span. We then estimate flight parameters and compare our estimates with representatives from across Aves in a statistical framework. We predict that flight in C. grandei was likely marked by continuous flapping, and that lithornithids were capable of sustained flight and migratory behavior. Our results are consistent with previous hypotheses that the ancestor of extant Palaeognathae may also have been capable of sustained flight. Anat Rec, 303:1035-1042, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.