cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Seismic Expression and Geological Significance of a Lacustrine Delta in Neogene Deposits of the Western Snake River Plain, Idaho

High-resolution seismic reflection profiles and well data from the western Snake River plain basin are used to identify a buried lacustrine delta system within Neogene Idaho Group sediments near Caldwell, Idaho. The delta system is detected, 305 m (1000 ft) deep, near the center of the basin by progradational clinoform reflections having dips of 2-5°, a slope typical of prodelta surfaces of modern lacustrine delta systems. The prodelta slope relief, corrected for compaction, indicates the delta system prograded northwestward into a lake basin 255 m (837 ft) deep. Resistivity logs in the prodelta mud and clay facies are characterized by gradual upward increase in resistivity and grain size over a thickness of about 100 m (300 ft). Lithology of the prodelta is mostly c lcareous claystone, with several layers of fine sand, some of which fine upward, indicating a density-flow mechanism of transport and deposition. Delta-plain and front sediments are mostly very fine-grained, well-sorted sand separated by thin mud layers. These sediments produce several to five cycles of horizontal, high-amplitude reflections with a toplap relationship to prodelta clinoforms. The sands have an abrupt lower contact with prodelta muds and have high resistivity on logs. In this study, permeable lacustrine sands within a predominantly mud and clay section are located by using high-resolution seismic reflection data. Identification of a delta system in the Idaho Group provides insight into the history of Pliocene "Lake Idaho." The present depth of the delta/prodelta facies contact of 305 m (1000 ft) is 445 to 575 m (1460-1900 ft) below the lake deposits on the margins. Estimated subsidence from compaction is 220 m (656 ft), and the remaining 225 to 325 m (740-1066 ft) is attributed to tectonic downwarping and faulting. The original lake area had been reduced to one third of the original 13,000 km2 (5000 mi2) by the time the delta front prograded to the Caldwell area. The original lake area may have been sufficient to evaporate most of the inflow, and the lake may have only occasionally spilled into other basins. Diminished area for evaporation later in the history of the lake, combined with reduced evaporation accompanying onset of the ice ages, may have caused the lake to rise and overtop a basin sill about 2 Ma, and subsequently deepen Hells Canyon.
Orienting and emotional perception: facilitation, attenuation, and interference

Human emotions are considered here to be founded on motivational circuits in the brain that evolved to protect (defensive) and sustain (appetitive) the life of individuals and species. These circuits are phylogenetically old, shared among mammals, and involve the activation of both subcortical and cortical structures that mediate attention, perception, and action. Circuit activation begins with a feature-match between a cue and an existing representation in memory that has motivational significance. Subsequent processes include rapid cue-directed orienting, information gathering, and action selection – What is it? Where is it? What to do? In our studies of emotional perception, we have found that measures that index orienting to emotional cues generally show enhanced circuit activation and response facilitation, relative to orienting indicators occasioned by affectively neutral cues, whether presented concurrently or independently. Here, we discuss these findings, considering both physiological reflex and brain measures as they are modulated during orienting and emotional perception.
Intimate View of a Kinetic Protein Folding Intermediate: Residue-resolved Structure, Interactions, Stability, Folding and Unfolding Rates, Homogeneity

A cytochrome c kinetic folding intermediate was studied by hydrogen exchange (HX) pulse labeling. Advances in the technique and analysis made it possible to define the structured and unstructured regions, equilibrium stability, and kinetic opening and closing rates, all at an amino acid-resolved level. The entire N-terminal and C-terminal helices are formed and docked together at their normal native positions. They fray in both directions from the interaction region, due to a progression in both unfolding and refolding rates, leading to the surprising suggestion that helix propagation may proceed very slowly in the condensed milieu. Several native-like beta turns are formed. Some residues in the segment that will form the native 60s helix are protected but others are not, suggesting energy minimization to some locally non-native conformation in the transient intermediate. All other regions are unprotected, presumably dynamically disordered. The intermediate resembles a partially constructed native state. It is early, on-pathway, and all of the refolding molecules pass through it. These and related results consistently point to distinct, homogeneous, native-like intermediates in a stepwise sequential pathway, guided by the same factors that determine the native structure. Previous pulse labeling efforts have always assumed EX2 exchange during the labeling pulse, often leading to the suggestion of heterogeneous intermediates in alternative parallel pathways. The present work reveals a dominant role for EX1 exchange in the high pH labeling pulse, which will mimic heterogeneous behavior when EX2 exchange is assumed. The general problem of homogeneous versus heterogeneous intermediates and pathways is discussed.
THE X-53 A SUMMARY OF THE ACTIVE AEROELASTIC WING FLIGHT RESEARCH PROGRAM

[Abstract] This paper summarizes the development and flight results of the X-53, better known as the Active Aeroelastic Wing (AAW) F/A-18 Flight Research Program.. Goals of the AAW Flight Research Program were to demonstrate, in full scale, key AAW parameters and to measure the aerodynamic, structural, and flight control characteristics associated with AAW. The AAW program’s technical content is discussed and some lessons learned and conclusions are described.
Mucopolysaccharide Which Regulates Growth in Neurospora

Neurospora produces a mucopolysaccharide (called MP) which inhibits its growth, causes vacuolation and agglutination of its cells, and precipitates its purified membrane protein. Cultures of a colonial strain display a phase of slow growth; the induction of this phase is traced to the production of MP by the mold. Stationary-phase cultures of wild type also produce MP. MP is a polymer of galactosamine, its amino groups only partially acetylated, probably containing other minor components. MP molecular weight is approximately 106. Complete acetylation abolishes the biological activities of MP. It is suggested that the regulatory effect of MP is mediated by its interaction with the protoplasmic membrane.
Visual gene developer: a fully programmable bioinformatics software for synthetic gene optimization

Direct gene synthesis is becoming more popular owing to decreases in gene synthesis pricing. Compared with using natural genes, gene synthesis provides a good opportunity to optimize gene sequence for specific applications. In order to facilitate gene optimization, we have developed a stand-alone software called Visual Gene Developer. The software not only provides general functions for gene analysis and optimization along with an interactive user-friendly interface, but also includes unique features such as programming capability, dedicated mRNA secondary structure prediction, artificial neural network modeling, network & multi-threaded computing, and user-accessible programming modules. The software allows a user to analyze and optimize a sequence using main menu functions or specialized module windows. Alternatively, gene optimization can be initiated by designing a gene construct and configuring an optimization strategy. A user can choose several predefined or user-defined algorithms to design a complicated strategy. The software provides expandable functionality as platform software supporting module development using popular script languages such as VBScript and JScript in the software programming environment. Visual Gene Developer is useful for both researchers who want to quickly analyze and optimize genes, and those who are interested in developing and testing new algorithms in bioinformatics. The software is available for free download at http://www.visualgenedeveloper.net .
Effects of chromate and cadmium on most probable number estimates of nitrifying bacteria in activated sludge.

Recent concern over pollution of the environment with heavy metals extends to natural waterways and water treatment systems. Extensive use of heavy metals by industry has resulted in the presence of significant concentrations of these potential intoxicants in sewage treatment influents, effluents and receiving water resources (NYTELKA et al., 1973). Evaluation of the effects of such metals on natural and artificial water systems should include the study of biological phenomena such as nitrification. This study was an effort to determine the effects of chromate and cadmium on the number of nitrifying bacteria obtained from activated sludge samples. Most probable number (MPN) estimates of these bacteria were made in media containing several concentrations of K/sub 2/CrO/sub 4/ and CdCl/sub 2/.
OR Practice-Policy Decision Modeling of the Costs and Outputs of Education in Medical Schools

This paper presents the results of a project designed to develop a methodology to aid policy decision making in statewide medical education systems. The methodology requires the development of quantitative models that project the state's future investment in medical education, as well as the effects of potential policy proposals on the costs of medical education, on state costs, and on physician manpower supply. To build these models, we collected and analyzed extensive data from one statewide medical education system. We discuss the development of our methodology, its application in the strategic planning by the state's educational leaders, its significance in the policy formulation process, and we offer guidelines for future research.
Beyond the Methods Fetish: Toward a Humanizing Pedagogy

In this article, Lilia Bartolome argues that the current focus on finding the right "methods" to improve the academic achievement of students who have historically been oppressed hides the less visible but more important reasons for their performance: the asymmetrical power relations of society that are reproduced in the schools, and the deficit view of minority students that school personnel uncritically, and often unknowingly, hold. Bartolome argues instead for a humanizing pedagogy that respects and uses the reality, history, and perspectives of students as an integral part of educational practice. Discussing two approaches in particular that show promise when implemented within a humanizing pedagogical framework — culturally responsive education and strategic teaching — Bartolome emphasizes the need for teachers' evolving political awareness of their relationship with students as knowers and active participants in their own learning.
Preparation of methyl [1‐14C]docosa‐7,10,13,16‐tetraenoate

Methyl [1-14C]docosa-7,10,13,16-tetraenoate was prepared from [1-14C]arachidonic acid by two successive Arndt-Eistert syntheses which also can be used for the step-wise homologation of other labeled fatty acids. After purification by gas chromatography the specific activity was 6.16 mCi/mmol, and the radiochemical purity was 97%.
Income Inequality, Global Economy and the State

We investigate interrelationship among income inequality, global economy and the role of the state using an unbalanced panel data set with 311 observations on 60 countries, dated from 1970 to 1994. The analysis proceeds in two stages. First, we test for effects on income inequality of variables characterizing the situation of a society in the world system: world system position (core, semi-periphery, periphery), foreign trade structure, export commodity concentration, export partner concentration and size of the state (measured as government expenditure or revenue). Second, we analyze the role of the interaction between foreign direct investment and government size in the inverted-U shaped relationship of income inequality with foreign investment. We find that most traditional measures of trade dependence have inconsistent or weak positive effects on inequality, while export commodity concentration has a negative effect. We also find that the effects of foreign direct investment on inequality is positive at low to intermediate levels of government size, but that this effect is substantially attenuated or negative in societies with a larger public sector. We conclude that distributional outcomes are dependent upon how the state reacts to growing globalization-related pressures.
Exercising Blood Gas Analysis, Dynamic Upper Respiratory Tract Obstruction, and Postexercising Bronchoalveolar Lavage Cytology—A Comparative Study in Poor Performing Horses

Abstract Respiratory abnormalities are common causes of decreased performance in horses presumably because of impaired pulmonary gas exchange. The objectives of the present study were to describe respiratory abnormalities in poorly performing horses and to investigate the relationships between dynamic upper respiratory tract (URT) videoendoscopy, postexercising bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) cytology, and exercising arterial blood gas analysis. Medical records of 93 horses with exercise intolerance, which presented for treadmill evaluation, were reviewed. Relationships between horse demographics, treadmill endoscopic findings, exercising blood gas values, and BAL cytology results were examined. A total of 25 (27%) horses had a URT obstruction and 91 (98%) horses had abnormal BAL cytology; 73 (78%) had evidence of inflammatory airway disease (IAD) and 83 (89%) had exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH). In all, 39 (42%) horses had abnormal blood gas values. Dynamic URT obstruction was significantly associated with exercising hypoxemia ( P = .036). There were no significant relationships between gas exchange and IAD or between EIPH. Out of 24 (26%) horses with combined URT obstruction and abnormal BAL, horses with URT obstruction and EIPH were more likely to be hypoxic during exercise ( P = .037). It was concluded that horses with dynamic URT abnormalities are likely to have exercising hypoxemia. Although IAD and EIPH were commonly indentified in poor performers, they were not significantly associated with abnormal exercising blood gas analysis.
One Hundred Million Jobs for the Chinese Workers! Why China’s Current Model of Development Is Unsustainable and How a Progressive Economic Program Can Help the Chinese Workers, the Chinese Economy, and China’s Environment:

This paper argues that China’s current model of development led by exports and investment is not sustainable for economic, social, and environmental reasons. The accumulation of economic, social, and environmental imbalances could potentially lead to a major crisis for China and the global economy. The paper proposes a progressive economic program that could help China move towards a more equitable and ecologically sustainable model of development.JEL classification: E60, O53, P30
METAL-BLOCK REPLACEMENT OF BONE DEFICIENCY

1. Complete exposure of the knee joint is facilitated by the reflection of the tibial tubercle and of the patellar tendon. Early function is instituted, following re-attachment of the tubercle by means of a metal nail. 2. The anterior inclination of the superior articular surface of the tibia must be corrected to relieve the deformity of genu recurvatum and to give adequate knee function. 3. In reconstructive surgical procedures, metal blocks may be used advantageously to fill bone defects.
Generalizing Evidence from Randomized Trials using Inverse Probability of Sampling Weights

Results obtained in randomized trials may not easily generalize to target populations. Whereas in randomized trials the treatment assignment mechanism is known, the sampling mechanism by which individuals are selected to participate in the trial is typically not known and assuming random sampling from the target population is often dubious. We consider an inverse probability of sampling weighted (IPSW) estimator for generalizing trial results to a target population. The IPSW estimator is shown to be consistent and asymptotically normal. A consistent sandwich-type variance estimator is derived and simulation results are presented comparing the IPSW estimator to a previously proposed stratified estimator. The methods are then utilized to generalize results from two randomized trials of HIV treatment to all people living with HIV in the United States.
Economic comparison of fusion power plant designs

Over the past 10 yr, a number of studies have been developed for fusion power plants of various types (tokamaks, mirrors, etc.) complete with figures of merit such as cost estimates and estimates of the cost of generating electricity (COE). Each of these designs involves unresolved physics and engineering problems which, it is assumed, will eventually be worked out. Because of such uncertainties the figures of merit associated with such designs are not to be compared as absolute measures of worth but as relative indicators of progress within a given concept type. As part of Grumman's involvement in fusion energy development, an effort has been undertaken to compare economic indicators from the referenced studies in order to determine the cost trend in recent reactor design activities. Comparisons of the economic figures of merit for the several fusion reactor designs in the reference documents involved converting all cost estimates to the same dollar type and deciding on a common figure for construction time, ratio of direct to indirect costs, interest during construction, fixed rate of annual payment, etc. Various combinations of these factors were explored, and differences between selected values and referenced values are discussed. Also comparisons were made of themore » direct cost elements among the various designs to show there is essential agreement on balance-of-plant cost. 10 refs., 2 figs.« less
Addressing Communication Skill Deficits in Fourth-Year Medical Students: An Intensive Remediation Curriculum

Communication skills can be taught and learned, and are assessed as part of the standard medical school curriculum. At West Virginia University, fourth-year medical students are required to pass the Clinical Performance Exam (CPX), in which students demonstrate clinical skills with simulated patients. A remediation curriculum has been instituted to facilitate experiential and didactic learning in provider-patient communication for students failing the Relationship/Communications section of the CPX. Thus far, the three students who have completed this intense curriculum have subsequently passed the CPX and successfully matriculated. Students report that the experiential component of the remediation has been the most effective learning tool. This curriculum has gained such credibility that the authors have been charged with adapting the course components to allow for inclusion of more students. Future direction of the curriculum is discussed.
Jahn-Teller dynamics in a series of high-symmetry Co(II) chelates determine paramagnetic relaxation enhancements.

NMR paramagnetic relaxation enhancements (PREs) of a series of structurally characterized, trigonal bis-trispyrazolylborate (Tp) chelates of high-spin Co(II), spanning 100–850 MHz in field, are reported. Prior knowledge of the metal–nucleus distances allows numerical extraction of position-dependent electron spin relaxation rates (τc–1) from direct measurement of the individual PREs of the four symmetry distinct protons in Co(Tp)2, using available closed-form expressions. The data for this electronically complex system where spin–orbit coupling defines the ground state electronic structure are analyzed in terms of the Solomon–Bloembergen–Morgan (SBM) relations, as well as available zero-field splitting limit theories. A simple angular correction is shown to be sufficient to reconcile the individual τc(T) data for the four classes of protons. The data identify a previously unrecognized dynamic Jahn–Teller effect in these historically important complexes, with a barrier of ∼230 cm–1, pointing to a level of ...
Effect of Red Plastic Lenses on Egg Production, Feed per Dozen Eggs, and Mortality of Laying Hens

Abstract Three groups of 256 pullets each were used to study the effects of red plastic lenses on egg production, feed per dozen eggs and mortality. The groups included control birds, which had no lenses, and treatment birds, in which the lenses were inserted when the pullets were 12 or 16 weeks of age. Egg production was compared among the three groups for seven 28 day periods from 22 to 50 weeks of age. Production on a hen-day basis was highest for the control birds, followed by 12 week lens birds, and then by 16 week lens birds. Egg production during period 1 was highest for the control birds. For periods 2 through 5, control birds and 12 week lens birds did not differ, but were higher than 16 week lens birds. Mean egg weight for the 12 week lens birds was greater than that of the 16 week lens birds. Feed per dozen eggs was lower for the control birds for period 1 compared to the other two groups because the control birds laid more eggs. Feed per dozen eggs was essentially the same for all three groups for each of the other 6 periods. Considerable mortality occurred among birds with lenses between 2 and 8 weeks after moving the birds to the layer facility. Mortality was attributed to an inability of the birds to find the feed.
Ureteral Reimplantation: A Comparison of Results with the Cross-Trigonal and Politano-Leadbetter Techniques in 120 Patients

A review of 120 children who underwent ureteral reimplantation by the cross-trigonal or Politano-Leadbetter technique is presented. Over-all success rates (no postoperative reflux or ureteral obstruction) were 96.7% for the Politano-Leadbetter method and 97.8% for the cross-trigonal technique. There were no failures using either method in patients operated upon for primary vesicoureteral reflux.
Determination of Toxicity

One of the most characteristic properties of bacterial O-antigen preparations is their toxicity, which can be shown in humans as well as in experimental animals. In the research of such products as well as of antibiotics and several natural products, the measurement of their toxicity is often necessary.
DISCUSS ON THE TECHNOLOGIES OF MINE DRAINAGE TREATMENT BY INTEGRATIVE PURIFIER

This paper discusses on the necessaries of purifying and utilizing mine drainage resources, the types,frame characteristics and technology features of integrative purifier,the situations of application purifiers in coal mine enterprises. It also analyses the main reasons caused by the problems in purifier technologies to treatment mine drainage, illustrates two engineering examples and gives some reasonable advice to solve the problems.
Aprotinin therapy for insertion of ventricular assist devices for staged heart transplantation

Bleeding after insertion of ventricular assist devices is a common problem which carries a major risk of immediate and late complications. We evaluated the safety and efficacy of aprotinin in six patients undergoing staged heart transplantation and compared the results with those of six patients who received no aprotinin. The groups did not differ significantly with respect to age, gender, preoperative cause of cardiomyopathy, or cardiopulmonary bypass time. Patients treated with aprotinin had a significant reduction in postoperative chest tube drainage (743 +/- 457 versus 2036 +/- 1184 cc, respectively, for aprotinin therapy versus no therapy; p = 0.047). Blood transfusion requirements were reduced in patients treated with aprotinin (2.2 +/- 2.2 versus 10.7 +/- 7.1 U respectively, for aprotinin therapy versus no therapy; p = 0.038). No demonstrable serious side effects were attributed to the aprotinin treatment. We conclude that aprotinin is effective in reducing bleeding and transfusion requirements without increasing the incidence of clinically significant renal dysfunction or thromboembolic events.
Rainfall Estimation from Satellite Imagery

The precipitation process is arguably the most important component of the global hydro-meteorological cycle. The latent heat released by precipitation over the tropical oceans is a primary source of the energy modulating the dynamics of the atmosphere. Over the land, precipitation contributes directly to lakes, rivers and sub-surface moisture storage, which are the primary sources of water supply for plants and animals. Therefore, a better understanding of the temporal and spatial distribution of precipitation is critical to long-term water resources and agricultural system planning.
Design Considerations of a Fiber Optic Pressure Sensor Protective Housing for Intramuscular Pressure Measurements

Intramuscular pressure (IMP), defined as skeletal muscle interstitial fluid pressure, reflects changes in individual muscle tension and may provide crucial insight into musculoskeletal biomechanics and pathologies. IMP may be measured using fiber-optic fluid pressure sensors, provided the sensor is adequately anchored to and shielded from surrounding muscle tissue. Ineffective anchoring enables sensor motion and inadequate shielding facilitates direct sensor-tissue interaction, which result in measurement artifacts and force-IMP dissociation. The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of polyimide and nitinol protective housing designs to anchor pressure sensors to muscle tissue, prevent IMP measurement artifacts, and optimize the force-IMP correlation. Anchoring capacity was quantified as force required to dislodge sensors from muscle tissue. Force-IMP correlations and non-physiological measurement artifacts were quantified during isometric muscle activations of the rabbit tibialis anterior. Housing structural integrity was assessed after both anchoring and activation testing. Although there was no statistically significant difference in anchoring capacity, nitinol housings demonstrated greater structural integrity and superior force-IMP correlations. Further design improvements are needed to prevent tissue accumulation in the housing recess associated with artificially high IMP measurements. These findings emphasize fundamental protective housing design elements crucial for achieving reliable IMP measurements.
Experimental validation of finite element modeling for laser powder bed fusion deformation

Abstract Experimental measurements are a critical component of model development, as they are needed to validate the accuracy of the model predictions. Currently, there is a deficiency in the availability of experimental data for laser powder bed fusion made parts. Here, two experimental builds of cylindrical geometry, one using a rotating scan pattern and the other using a constant scan pattern, are designed to provide post-build distortion measurements. Measurements are made using a coordinate-measuring machine which provides distortion profiles along the height of the part at four separate locations. Measurements show that for these cylindrical thin wall builds, there is no discernable effect on distortion from using the rotating versus constant scan patterns. Project Pan finite element modeling software is used to model each of the experimental builds. The simulation results show good agreement with experimental measurements of post-build deformation, within a 12% percent error as compared to experimental measurements. Using the FE model, the effect of a flexible versus a rigid substrate on distortion profile is examined. The FE model is validated against in situ experimental measurements of substrate distortion. The simulated results are used to study stress and distortion evolution during the build process. Internal stresses calculated by the model throughout the part are used in explaining the final part distortion. The combination of experimental and simulation results from this study show that the distortion of the top layer is relatively small (less than 30%) throughout the duration of the build process compared to the peak distortion, which occurs several layers below the most recently deposited layer. For these geometries once the part is built to a sufficient height, the peak distortion magnitude does not change.
The “Wicked Problem” of Neutral Description: Toward a Documentation Approach to Metadata Standards

Increasingly, metadata standards have been recognized as constructed rather than neutral. In this article, we argue for the importance of a documentation approach to metadata standards creation as ...
Expanding Definitions of Giftedness : The Case of Young Interpreters From Immigrant Communities

Contents: Introduction. G. Valdes, K. Enright, In Search of Giftedness: The Case of Latino Immigrant Children. G. Valdes, H. Brookes, C. Chavez, Bilinguals and Bilingualism. G. Valdes, C. Chavez, C. Angelelli, A Performance Team: Young Interpreters and Their Parents. G. Valdes, C. Chavez, C. Angelelli, K. Enright, D. Garcia, M. Gonzalez, The Study of Young Interpreters: Methods, Materials, and Analytical Challenges. G. Valdes, C. Chavez, C. Angelelli, K. Enright, D. Garcia, M. Gonzalez, The Performance of the Young Interpreters on the Scripted Task. G. Valdes, The Gifts and Talents of Young Interpreters: Implications for Researchers and Practitioners. G. Valdes, Developing the Talents of Latino Immigrant Children: Challenges, Questions, and Opportunities.
Multitarget localization on road networks with hidden Markov Rao-Blackwellized particle filters

This paper considers the problem of tracking multiple moving targets on a road network with sparse, highly localized, unattended ground sensor data that are subject to clutter and missed detections...
Low-Energy Membrane Process for Concentration of Stick Water

This communication describes the application of forward osmosis (FO) to concentrate stick water, a nutrient-rich water byproduct of meat rendering operations. The objectives of the study were to carry out a set of batch FO runs in concentration mode to determine the maximum achievable stick water concentration and to perform a preliminary cost analysis for operating a FO/reverse osmosis membrane separation process for comparison to an evaporative concentration process. The study examined the roles of feed and draw solution stir rates, temperature, feed concentration, and draw solution ionic strength on flux using commercial cellulose triacetate membranes. Results show that FO could concentrate the stick water up to 45 wt %; however, concentrations above about 30 wt % would be difficult to process through conventional membrane configurations. Preliminary operating cost estimations show that the energy cost of the FO process is about 5.3% of the energy costs for a single-effect thermal evaporation process; and, assuming a 2-year membrane lifetime, the total operating cost using FO membranes was estimated to be about 23.1% of the operating cost using such a thermal evaporation process.
Design of an Inductorless Power Converter with Maximizing Power Extraction for Energy Harvesting

An inductorless power converter for low-power energy harvesting is presented. The power converter for energy harvesting is employed to maximize power extraction from energy sources. The power conve...
Amphiphilic Templates in the Synthesis of Nanostructured Composites — from Particles to Extended Structures

Surfactant self-assembly is used to develop templates for materials synthesis. The reverse micelle microstructure of the anionic, AOT, serves as a template for the enzymatic synthesis of polymer microspheres and the encapsulation of nanoparticles within these microspheres. Transformation from reverse micelles to a rigid organohydrogel structure is conducted through the addition of the zwitterionic phospholipid, lecithin. The gel serves as a template for the extended synthesis of silica networks and provides opportunities to synthesize polymer-inorganic structured nanocomposites.
Pulse-Width Stabilization of a Synchronously Pumped Dye Laser

The production of ultrashort pulses by the active mode-locking of dye lasers has been widely used for the last five years for the study of events which occur on picosecond time scales. However, experimental difficulties are posed by amplitude and pulsewidth fluctuations[1] caused by plasma instabilities in the Ar+ laser, thermal drift in the cavity length of the dye laser, and electronic noise in the oscillator providing the signal for the acousto-optic mode-locking crystal. In this paper we will present the first attempts to stabilize the pulsewidth by using active feedback.
HRI ethics and type-token ambiguity: what kind of robotic identity is most responsible?

This paper addresses ethical challenges posed by a robot acting as both a general type of system and a discrete, particular machine. Using the philosophical distinction between “type” and “token,” we locate type-token ambiguity within a larger field of indefinite robotic identity, which can include networked systems or multiple bodies under a single control system. The paper explores three specific areas where the type-token tension might affect human–robot interaction, including how a robot demonstrates the highly personalized recounting of information, how a robot makes moral appeals and justifies its decisions, and how the possible need for replacement of a particular robot shapes its ongoing role (including how its programming could transfer to a new body platform). We also consider how a robot might regard itself as a replaceable token of a general robotic type and take extraordinary actions on that basis. For human–robot interaction robotic type-token identity is not an ontological problem that has a single solution, but a range of possible interactions that responsible design must take into account, given how people stand to gain and lose from the shifting identities social robots will present.
Fast Graph Exploration by a Mobile Robot

Given an undirected, anonymous, port-labeled graph of n nodes, m edges, and degree Delta, we require a mobile robot to visit all the nodes in the graph. We give two algorithms to solve this problem in O(m) time. Algorithm Robot-Memory uses O(n log Δ) bits at the robot, and 1 bit at each node. Algorithm Node-Memory uses O(log Δ) bits at each node. The algorithms Robot-Memory and Node-Memory trade-off the memory requirements at the robot and at the nodes. The algorithms are capable of perpetual exploration or patrolling, and are variants of depth-first search (DFS). The algorithms fill in existing gaps in the trade-offs between robot memory, memory at each node, and exploration time, in the body of literature on the graph exploration problem.
Succinate links atrial dysfunction and cardioembolic stroke.

Objective To determine whether altered metabolic profiles represent a link between atrial dysfunction and cardioembolic (CE) stroke, and thus whether underlying dysfunctional atrial substrate may contribute to thromboembolism risk in CE stroke. Methods A total of 144 metabolites were measured using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry in plasma samples collected within 9 hours of stroke onset in 367 acute stroke patients. Stroke subtype was assigned using the Causative Classification of Stroke System, and CE stroke (n = 181) was compared to non-CE stroke (n = 186). Markers of left atrial dysfunction included abnormal atrial function (P-wave terminal force in lead V1, PTFV 1 >4,000 μV·ms), left atrial enlargement on echocardiography, and frank atrial fibrillation on ECG. Stroke recurrence risk was assessed using CHADS 2 and CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc scores. Associations between metabolites and CE stroke, atrial dysfunction, and stroke recurrence risk were evaluated using logistic regression models. Results Three tricarboxylic acid metabolites—succinate (odds ratio [OR] 1.71, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.36–2.15, p = 1.37 × 10 −6 ), α-ketoglutarate (OR 1.62, 95% CI 1.29–2.04, p = 1.62 × 10 −5 ), and malate (OR 1.58, 95% CI 1.26–1.97, p = 2.57 × 10 −5 )—were associated with CE stroke. Succinate (OR 1.36, 95% CI 1.31–1.98, p = 1.22 × 10 −6 ), α-ketoglutarate (OR 2.14, 95% CI 1.60–2.87, p = 2.08 × 10 −8 ), and malate (OR 2.02, 95% CI 1.53–2.66, p = 1.60 × 10 −7 ) were among metabolites also associated with subclinical atrial dysfunction. Of these, succinate was also associated with left atrial enlargement (OR 1.54, 95% CI 1.23–1.94, p = 1.06 × 10 −4 ) and stroke recurrence based on dichotomized CHADS 2 (OR 2.63, 95% CI 1.68–4.13, p = 3.00 × 10 −6 ) and CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc (OR 2.43, 95% CI 1.60–3.68, p = 4.25 × 10 −6 ) scores. Conclusions Metabolite profiling identified changes in succinate associated with CE stroke, atrial dysfunction, and stroke recurrence, revealing a putative underlying link between CE stroke and energy metabolism.
PLIN2 Functions As a Novel Link Between Progesterone Signaling and Metabolism in Uterine Leiomyoma Cells.

Context Uterine leiomyoma (fibroids) are the most common tumors in women. Recently, perilipin-2 (PLIN2) was identified as a critical target gene of the progesterone receptor; however, its function in the pathogenesis of fibroids is unknown. Objective To determine the function of PLIN2 in leiomyoma cells. Design Tissue and primary cells from leiomyoma and myometrium were analyzed. PLIN2 function in leiomyoma was assessed using small interfering RNA. RNA-sequencing was performed to identify genome-wide effects of PLIN2 depletion. Metabolic activity was measured using the Seahorse XF96 analyzer. Real-time quantitative PCR and immunoblotting were also performed. Setting Laboratory. Patients or other participants Forty-one premenopausal women undergoing surgery for fibroids. Main outcome measures Gene expression, oxygen consumption rate (OCR), extracellular acidification rate (ECAR), and cell proliferation. Results PLIN2 gene expression was 2.4-fold lower in leiomyoma compared with adjacent myometrium, suggesting a link between PLIN2 deficiency and fibroids. A total of 3877 genes were differentially expressed after PLIN2 knockdown. Gene ontology analysis identified metabolism as the second-highest biological process affected by PLIN2 depletion. OCR (mitochondrial respiration) and ECAR (glycolysis) were significantly upregulated after PLIN2 knockdown; PLIN2-depleted cells had a greater basal metabolic activity and higher metabolic stress response. Cell proliferation was also significantly increased after PLIN2 knockdown. Conclusions PLIN2 depletion increases mitochondrial respiration and glycolysis, suggesting that PLIN2 is a critical regulator of metabolic function in leiomyoma cells. PLIN2 deficiency also reprograms leiomyoma cells to a proproliferative phenotype. These findings introduce metabolomics as an area to explore to better understand leiomyoma tumorigenesis.
The role of structural fluctuations and environmental noise in the electron/hole separation kinetics at organic polymer bulk-heterojunction interfaces.

We investigate the electronic dynamics of a model organic photovoltaic (OPV) system consisting of polyphenylene vinylene (PPV) oligomers and a [6,6]-phenyl C61-butyric acid methylester (PCBM) blend using a mixed molecular mechanics/quantum mechanics (MM/QM) approach. Using a heuristic model that connects energy gap fluctuations to the average electronic couplings and decoherence times, we provide an estimate of the state-to-state internal conversion rates within the manifold of the lowest few electronic excitations. We find that the lowest few excited states of a model interface are rapidly mixed by CC bond fluctuations such that the system can sample both intermolecular charge-transfer and charge-separated electronic configurations on a time scale of 20 fs. Our simulations support an emerging picture of carrier generation in OPV systems in which interfacial electronic states can rapidly decay into charge-separated and current producing states via coupling to vibronic degrees of freedom.
Neurovascular findings in children and young adults with Loeys-Dietz syndromes: Informing recommendations for screening

Abstract Introduction Loeys-Dietz Syndromes (LDS) are a group of connective tissue disorders associated with vascular abnormalities, including arterial tortuosity, aneurysms, and dissections. While neurovascular involvement is common, no pediatric or young adult recommendations for screening exist. We aimed to review our institution's experience with special focus on neurovascular imaging to better understand the pathology and guide screening. Methods A retrospective cohort study of patients with LDS was performed. Demographics, genetic subtype, clinical and radiographical data were analyzed. Primary outcome measures included pathology on neurovascular imaging, time to progression, and arterial tortuosity indexes for bilateral cervical internal carotid arteries (ICA) and vertebral arteries (VA). Results Of 47 patients with LDS identified, 39 (83.0%) were found to have neuroimaging. Intracranial and cervical vascular tortuosity were seen in 79.5% and 64.1%, respectively. Twenty-one patients (44.7%) received follow-up screening, of which 3 were found to have progression. Time to progression was an average of 2.1 years. Average follow-up was 607 days (range 123–3070 days). Mean Arterial Tortuosity Index for the right ICA, left ICA, right VA, and left VA were 18, 20, 49, and 47, respectively. Comparison of interval percent change in Arterial Tortuosity Index over the course of follow-up demonstrated small changes in the right ICA (mean 5%), left ICA (mean 1%), right VA (mean 1%), and left VA (mean 2%). Conclusions Arterial tortuosity was most prevalent, though it did not progress significantly over time. We suggest an algorithm for management and serial screening to guide management of pediatric and young adults with LDS.
Effects of Covalency on Anionic Redox Chemistry in Semiquinoid-Based Metal-Organic Frameworks.

Two iron–semiquinoid framework materials, (H2NMe2)2Fe2(Cl2 dhbq)3 (1) and (H2NMe2)4Fe3(Cl2 dhbq)3(SO4)2 (Cl2 dhbqn– = deprotonated 2,5-dichloro-3,6-dihydroxybenzoquinone) (2-SO4), are shown to poss...
Voices of Returning Citizens: A Qualitative Study of a Supportive Housing Program for Ex-Offenders in a Rural Community:

Stable housing is a critical need for offenders at reentry and an urgent need for offenders returning to rural communities. Stable housing provides a foundation for life changes impacting recidivis...
Feasibility of a Sustainable Infrastructure Rating System Framework in a Developing Country

Sustainable building rating systems have been implemented in several countries over the last few decades to manage resources, preserve the environment and promote well-being. Sustainable infrastruc...
Can Systemic Anti-CD20 B Cell-Depleting Antibodies Eliminate Meningeal Follicles in Multiple Sclerosis?

The dramatic success of systemic anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody (mAb) B cell depleting therapy in the relapsing form of multiple sclerosis (MS) has highlighted the importance of B cells in MS immunopathogenesis.1,-,3 This is believed to be due to B cells role as antigen-presenting cells2 and their ability to produce proinflammatory cytokines.3 However, the impact of anti-CD20 mAb therapy on preventing long-term disability in progressive forms of …
Novel neutrophil phenotypic signature in pediatric patients with type 1 diabetes and diabetic ketoacidosis

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a chronic inflammatory condition sometimes complicated by acute diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). A subset of patients with T1D develop DKA independent of known risk factors. This study tested the hypothesis that circulating polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) from children with T1D and DKA would exhibit a primed phenotype and that the signature would be unique in patients predisposed to have DKA. Using a prospective cohort study design, neutrophil phenotype was assessed in 30 patients with T1D seen in endocrinology clinic for routine care, 30 patients with acute DKA, and 36 healthy donors. Circulating PMN from patients with DKA display a primed phenotype with increased basal cell-surface CD11b, L-selectin shedding, and enhanced fMLF-elicited reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Moreover, PMN from T1D patients both with and without DKA lack the capacity to be further primed by incubation with TNF-α, a classic priming stimulus. Primed PMN phenotypic signatures demonstrated are independent of hemoglobin A1c, the premier biological marker for DKA risk, and are consistent with a hyperinflammatory state. A single nucleotide polymorphism in TLR-1 (1805G>T), known to be associated with a hyperinflammatory PMN phenotype, correlated with DKA. This study elucidated a novel phenotypic signature in circulating PMN from children with T1D with and without DKA, and suggests the possibility of a previously unrecognized PMN phenotype with potential clinical implications. Immunophenotype and genotype may be applicable as biomarkers for DKA risk stratification in patients with T1D.
Changes in students’ achievement goals in advanced learning environment: a multivariate multilevel model

This study investigated changes in students’ achievement goals as a result of their participation in academic summer programs for advanced learners. Researchers examined whether the type of classes...
Incivility Is Associated with Burnout and Reduced Compassion Satisfaction: A Mixed-Method Study to Identify Causes of Burnout among Oncology Clinical Research Coordinators.

While oncology clinical research coordinators (CRCs) experience a combination of factors that are thought to put them at increased risk for burnout, very little research has been conducted to understand the risk factors associated with burnout among CRCs. We used a mixed-method approach, including self-report questionnaires to assess burnout and compassion satisfaction, as well as individual and interpersonal variables hypothesized to impact CRC well-being. We also conducted a focus group to gain a more nuanced understanding of coordinators’ experiences around burnout, teamwork, resilience, and incivility. Coordinators reported relatively moderate levels of burnout and compassion satisfaction. Resilience, sleep dysfunction, stress, and incivility experienced from patients/family were significant predictors of burnout. Resilience and incivility from patients/family were significant predictors of compassion satisfaction. Themes that emerged from the focus group included that burnout is triggered by feeling overwhelmed from the workload, which is buffered by what was described as a supportive work culture based in teamwork. This study identified variables at the individual and interpersonal level that are associated with burnout and compassion satisfaction among oncology CRCs. Addressing these variables is of critical importance given that oncology CRCs and team-based coordinator care are vital to the success of clinical trials.
Rapid Quantification of Mass Transfer Barriers in Metal–Organic Framework Crystals

Although mass transfer of molecules in and out of porous materials such as zeolites and metal–organic frameworks impacts many applications, the fast and reproducible measurement of intracrystalline...