cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Etch Rate and Surface Morphology of Plasma Etched Glass Substrates

Micro-machined transparent components are of interest for optical MEMS and miniaturized biological systems. The glass ceramic GC6 developed by Corning is optically transparent, has a softening point in excess of 900°C, and a thermal expansion coefficient matched to silicon. These properties make it useful for the construction of devices that combine thin film silicon electronics with MEMS systems. Both the ceramic precursor (green glass) and the glass ceramic etch at a similar rate, about 1/3 to 1/4 of that of SiO2 etched under the same conditions, indicating that chemistry rather than microstructure control the etch rate. The cleaning steps used to clean the glass precursor profoundly influence the degree of surface roughness that develops during subsequent plasma etching. In glass ceramics, the morphology of plasma etched surface is always very smooth and independent of the cleaning steps used. Assuming that the removal of spinel crystals is the rate limiting step in plasma etching glass ceramics can explain this observation.
Charge transfer dynamics between photoexcited CdS nanorods and mononuclear Ru water-oxidation catalysts.

We describe the charge transfer interactions between photoexcited CdS nanorods and mononuclear water oxidation catalysts derived from the [Ru(bpy)(tpy)Cl]+ parent structure. Upon excitation, hole transfer from CdS oxidizes the catalyst (Ru2+ → Ru3+) on a 100 ps to 1 ns timescale. This is followed by 10–100 ns electron transfer (ET) that reduces the Ru3+ center. The relatively slow ET dynamics may provide opportunities for the accumulation of multiple holes at the catalyst, which is necessary for water oxidation.
Being Committed: Conceptualizations of Romantic Relationship Commitment Among Low-Income African American Adolescents

Few studies have examined adolescents’ understanding of romantic relationship commitment, particularly among African American youth. Using three waves of semistructured interviews, the present desc...
On Gas Accumulation and Preservation

Natural gas accumulation is a process of dynamic balance between gas accumulation and gas fugitive emission,in which the inflow and preservation of gas are the key factors for gas reservoir.The preservation of gas-bearing basin primarily depends on its cap rock,late tectonic movement,forming time of gas reservoir,gas supply area and intensity.Normally,a large gas field has its hydrocarbon-generating intensity of over20×108m3/km2.The study shows that from the whole to the local,using multiple methods and parameters for systematic analysis is a foundation of proper hold and understanding of petroleum prospects in an area.This paper stresses the effect of pressure seal on gas accumulation and preservation.The pressure system can be as an important index for discrimination of whether a gas-bearing basin possesses sealing and preservation conditions on the whole or not.
Abstract B58: CELF1 is a central node in post-transcriptional regulatory programs underlying EMT and metastasis in breast epithelial cells

The importance of translational regulation in tumorigenesis and metastasis is increasingly appreciated. We have leveraged polyribosomal profiling to prospectively and functionally define translational regulatory programs underlying the epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), one of the early manifestations of metastasis, in breast epithelial cells. Our approach identified scores of mRNAs both enriched and depleted from polyribosomal fractions in mesenchymal cells as compared to their epithelial counterparts. Computational analysis of the 3′ untranslated regions (UTRs) of mRNAs enriched in polysomal fractions derived from the mesenchymal state revealed enrichment of a distinct GU-rich cis-element within these mRNA transcripts. Strikingly, while relative representation of these GU-rich-containing transcripts at the level of bulk mRNA were generally decreased in mesenchymal cells, the protein encoded by each of these mRNAs was dramatically increased. 3′ UTRs from affected transcripts conferred similar regulation upon a fluorescent reporter gene dependent upon the presence of the GU-rich element within the 3′ UTR sequence. Several of the translationally upregulated transcripts were necessary and/or sufficient for the EMT program. We next identified the CELF1 protein as a common regulator of these mRNA transcripts, demonstrating direct binding of the CELF1 protein to affected transcripts dependent upon the presence of the GU-rich element within their 3′ UTRs. CELF1 was itself necessary and sufficient for EMT in several distinct in vitro models as well as for metastatic colonization in vivo. Analysis of publicly available transcriptomic data revealed no increase in the relative expression of CELF19s regulatory targets or CELF1 itself in human breast cancer. We demonstrate that the CELF1 gene product is itself post-translationally regulated during EMT, and that CELF1 protein, but not mRNA, is significantly overexpressed in human breast cancer tissues and correlates with disease progression. Cumulatively, our data present a distinctive model of gene regulation, invisible to traditional transcriptional profiling, in which the CELF1 protein serves as a central node controlling translational activation of the EMT program and ultimately tumor metastasis in human breast cancer. Citation Format: Arindam Chaudhury, Natee Kongchan, Joseph M. Fachini, Lukas M. Simon, Tao Wang, Sufeng Mao, Daniel G. Rosen, Michael M. Ittmann, Susan G. Hilsenbeck, Chad A. Shaw, Joel R. Neilson. CELF1 is a central node in post-transcriptional regulatory programs underlying EMT and metastasis in breast epithelial cells. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Tumor Metastasis; 2015 Nov 30-Dec 3; Austin, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(7 Suppl):Abstract nr B58.
Some principles of short-term group therapy.

ABSTRACTThis paper reviews the burgeoning literature on short-term group therapy, primarily focusing on outpatient groups, and formulates a set of general principles for conducting such groups. Sho...
The "standard technique" of liposuction. Viewpoint from a plastic surgeon.

The tumescent technique for fat extraction is viewed in the context of the development of liposuction body contouring and is compared with the refinement of surgical procedures in general. Issues of credentialing, cost, safety, and efficacy are addressed with emphasis on personal experience and perspective.
Recapitulating Human Gastric Cancer Pathogenesis: Experimental Models of Gastric Cancer

This review focuses on the various experimental models to study gastric cancer pathogenesis, with the role of genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs) used as the major examples. We review differences in human stomach anatomy compared to the stomachs of the experimental models, including the mouse and invertebrate models such as Drosophila and C. elegans. The contribution of major signaling pathways, e.g., Notch, Hedgehog, AKT/PI3K is discussed in the context of their potential contribution to foregut tumorigenesis. We critically examine the rationale behind specific GEMMs, chemical carcinogens, dietary promoters, Helicobacter infection, and direct mutagenesis of relevant oncogenes and tumor suppressor that have been developed to study gastric cancer pathogenesis. Despite species differences, more efficient and effective models to test specific genes and pathways disrupted in human gastric carcinogenesis have yet to emerge. As we better understand these species differences, “humanized” versions of mouse models will more closely approximate human gastric cancer pathogenesis. Towards that end, epigenetic marks on chromatin, the gut microbiota, and ways of manipulating the immune system will likely move center stage, permitting greater overlap between rodent and human cancer phenotypes thus providing a unified progression model.
Effects of a Novel Dental Gel on Enamel Surface Recovery from Acid Challenge.

Background: Objective was to evaluate the in vivo effects of a novel dental gel (Livionex gelR) vs. a comparison dental gel on the surfaces of pre-eroded enamel chips. Methods: On days 1-5, after toothbrushing with dentifrice, nine subjects each wore 8 enamel chips mounted on a palatal appliance for 4 h. Enamel blocks were pre-demineralized daily. After 2 day washout, subjects repeated the protocol using fresh chips and the second toothpaste on days 8-12. Samples were evaluated using electron microscopy. Results: Ten standardized enamel surface photomicrographs/sample (total 1440 images) were evaluated for signs of erosion visually and on a scale of 0-3 by 1 evaluator. No significant differences were found between the 2 groups (p>0.32, 95% C.I.). Minimal surface erosion on approx. 15% of sample area was visible in both groups. Conclusion: The enamel surface appeared similar after usage of a test or control dentifrice. Based on this study, the test formulation did not affect enamel surface recovery from an erosive challenge. Practical implications: Dentifrices can contribute to maintaining a healthy enamel surface. An all-natural dental gel formulation with novel anti-plaque mechanism achieved similar recovery from acid challenge to enamel as a control gel.
Impact of Increased Football Field Width on Player High-Speed Collision Rate.

Background High-acceleration head impact is a known risk for mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) based on studies using helmet accelerometry. In football, offensive and defensive players are at higher risk of mTBI due to increased speed of play. Other collision sport studies suggest that increased playing surface size may contribute to reductions in high-speed collisions. We hypothesized that wider football fields lead to a decreased rate of high-speed collisions. Methods Computer football game simulation was developed using MATLAB. Four wide receivers were matched against 7 defensive players. Each offensive player was randomized to one of 5 typical routes on each play. The ball was thrown 3 seconds into play; ball flight time was 2 seconds. Defensive players were delayed 0.5 second before reacting to ball release. A high-speed collision was defined as the receiver converging with a defensive player within 0.5 second of catching the ball. The simulation counted high-speed collisions for 1 team/season (65 plays/game for 16 games/season = 1040 plays/season) averaged during 10 seasons, and was validated against existing data using standard field width (53.3 yards). Field width was increased in 1-yard intervals up to 58.3 yards. Results Using standard field width, 188 ± 4 high-speed collisions were seen per team per season (18% of plays). When field width increased by 3 yards, high-speed collision rate decreased to 135 ± 3 per team per season (28% decrease; P Conclusions Even small increases in football field width can lead to substantial decline in high-speed collisions, with potential for reducing instances of mTBI in football players.
Constitutional, somatic genetic and environmental aspects of the phenotypic diversity of aging in human subjects.

For the case of a large number of parameters, gerontologists typically report an increase in variance as a function of age. This is particularly true when the parameter of interest is subject to physiological stress, thus testing the degree to which the organism can maintain homeostasis. Such observations are so common that the phenomenon could be a candidate for one of the few “laws” of gerontology so far uncovered. Like all laws, there are exceptions, the best example of which is the loss of accommodation of the ocular lens as a function of age in human subjects. As one approaches age 50, the lens has already lost most of its mobility, with very little interindividual variation, much less than what is observed during the early phases of life (Friedenwald, 1952; Ponten, 1977). Most such studies of individual variations are cross-sectional in design. The question can therefore be raised that the observed differences may derive, at least in part, from a cohort effect—some differential environmental experience of the contrasting age groups. Therefore, longitudinal studies of individual variations during aging should be pursued whenever feasible. Unfortunately, such studies are rare, although we can expect to learn a great deal from ongoing investigations such as those of the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of the National Institute on Aging (Shock et al., 1984).
Evaluation of pegfilgrastim use at an academic medical center.

PurposePegfilgrastim is indicated to reduce the risk of febrile neutropenia. As a cost-savings initiative, Pegfilgrastim Process Guidelines were developed and implemented at a large, academic teaching institution to improve appropriate use of pegfilgrastim and to decrease costs of outpatient infusion center administration by deferring doses to home self-administration for eligible patients.MethodsA retrospective medical record review was conducted post-implementation of the Pegfilgrastim Process Guideline to evaluate the use of pegfilgrastim and to assess the safety and efficacy of transferring pegfilgrastim orders from outpatient infusion center to home administration for eligible patients.ResultsFifty-nine patients were included in the study, with 35 patients receiving pegfilgrastim in the outpatient infusion center, 13 patients self-injecting at home, and 11 patients receiving doses in both settings. The total wholesale cost avoidance for pegfilgrastim orders transferred to self-administration at home ...
Conditionals — Flow of Control

Many elementary computer programs consist of only a simple list of statements to be executed sequentially, one after another from first to last. The flow from one statement to the next can be visualized as a straight line, or linear, flow. Examples in Chapter 1 illustrate this type of program.
Need for Permanent Pacemaker After Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement Reduces Long-Term Survival

Background Permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation has been touted as an inconsequential complication after transcatheter aortic valve replacement. As transcatheter aortic valve replacement moves to lower risk patients, the long-term implications remain poorly understood; therefore, we evaluated the long-term outcomes of pacemaker for surgical aortic valve replacement patients. Methods A total of 2,600 consecutive patients undergoing surgical aortic valve replacement over the past 15 years were reviewed using The Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) institutional database and Social Security death records. Patients were stratified by placement of a PPM within 30 days of surgery. The impact of PPM placement on long-term survival was assessed by Kaplan-Meier analysis and risk-adjusted survival by Cox proportional hazards modeling. Results A total of 72 patients (2.7%) required PPM placement postoperatively. Patients requiring PPM had more postoperative complications, including atrial fibrillation (43.1% versus 27.0%, p = 0.003), prolonged ventilation (16.7% versus 5.7%, p p = 0.002). These led to greater resource utilization including longer intensive care unit stay (89 versus 44 hours, p p p p = 0.02), even after risk adjustment with STS predicted risk of mortality (hazard ratio 1.48, p = 0.02). Conclusions The need for PPM after aortic valve replacement independently reduces long-term survival. The rate of PPM placement after surgical aortic valve replacement remains very low but dramatically increases resource utilization. As transcatheter aortic valve replacement expands to low-risk patients, the impact of PPM placement on long-term survival warrants close monitoring.
PRINCIPAL-COMPONENTS ANALYSIS, FACTOR ANALYSIS, AND POINT COORDINATES IN THE STUDY OF MULTIVARIATE ALLOMETRY

ABSTRACT For many years, the bivariate allometric equation or simple power function has yielded insights about size and shape. Multivariate generalizations of the bivariate allometric equations are provided by the principal components or factors derived from a covariance matrix of the logarithms of the original measurements. The coefficients in the principal components or the factor loadings show the nature of changes in the variables which may be isometric (i.e., change in size whereas retaining the same shape) or allometric (i.e., change in both size and shape). A single set of multivariate data may contain one or more sources of allometry. If the sample is from one population, maximum-likelihood or generalized least-squares factor analysis is proposed as a first step because significance tests aid in determination of the number of allometric factors in the data. Generally, there are only slight differences between the factors and principal components. For samples obtained from mixed populations, only principal components are recommended. Several case studies concerned with fossil organisms are outlined. The measurement of X, Y, and Z coordinates of homologous points determined with respect to a consistent set of reference axes provides more direct information about size and shape than can be derived from typical morphometric measurements.
Stig Kanger on Deontic Logic

The year 1957 saw the publication of two ground-breaking contributions to deontic logic, Stig Kanger’s ‘New Foundations for Ethical Theory’ (Kanger 1957/71)1 and Jaakko Hintikka’s ‘Quantifiers in Deontic Logic’ (Hintikka 1957).2 Superficially the papers look very different, but they contain many significant similarities: 1. Both papers contain a semantic analysis of the basic normative concepts the obligatory, the permitted, and the prohibited (or the concepts of ought, may, and may not). The semantical theories proposed by Kanger and Hintikka are closely related to, or variants of, the possible worlds semantics for modal concepts. 2. Kanger and Hintikka discuss the applicability of the concepts of truth and consequence to normative discourse, that is, to imperatives, norms, and normative statements. 3. Both authors analyze the role of quantifiers in deontic logic and the interplay of quantifiers and deontic operators. 4. The concepts and results of deontic logic are applied to conceptual problems in ethics and the philosophy of law. 5. In these papers, Kanger and Hintikka discuss the importance of the representation of actions and agency in deontic logic and, more generally, the role of actions and action descriptions in normative discourse. In the present paper I shall briefly discuss Kanger’s contributions to these topics.
Ethical Standards for Chimera Research Oversight

Ethical standards for stem cell-based chimera research should build on current ethical standards for all animal research, adding stem cell-specific guidance only when necessary to address potential negative effects on animal welfare resulting from heavy biological modification.
When women fight: unemployment, territorial control and the prevalence of female combatants in insurgent organizations

Recent scholarship suggests that the prevalence of female fighters is determined by various demand and supply factors. On one hand, the voluntary supply of female fighters is dependent on women who...
Race, political targeting, and value application: the effects of framing on gay rights opinions among Blacks and Whites

We use the concepts of value framing, frame salience, and political targeting to examine variation in the application of values to gay rights opinions among Black and White Americans. Our argument ...
A “crush” course on rhabdomyolysis: risk stratification and clinical management update for the perioperative clinician

Rhabdomyolysis, the release of myoglobin and other cellular breakdown products from necrotic muscle tissue, is seen in patients with crush injuries, drug overdose, malignant hyperthermia, muscular dystrophy, and with increasing frequency in obese patients undergoing routine procedures. For the perioperative clinician, managing the resultant shock, hyperkalemia, acidosis, and myoglobinuric acute kidney injury can present a significant challenge. Prompt recognition, hydration, and correction of metabolic disturbances may reduce or eliminate the need for long-term renal replacement therapy. This article reviews the pathophysiology and discusses key issues in the perioperative diagnosis, risk stratification, and management of rhabdomyolysis.
Sharp Interior and Boundary Regularity of the SMGTJ-Equation with Dirichlet or Neumann Boundary Control

We consider the third order (in time) linear equation known as SMGTJ-equation, as defined on a multidimensional bounded domain and subject to either Dirichlet or Neumann boundary control. We then establish corresponding sharp interior and boundary regularity results.
I Own, so I Help Out: How Psychological Ownership Increases Prosocial Behavior

This article explores the consequences of psychological ownership going beyond the specific relationship with the possession to guide behavior in unrelated situations. Across seven studies, we find that psychological ownership leads to a boost in self-esteem, which encourages individuals to be more altruistic. In addition, we show that the effect of psychological ownership on prosocial behavior is not driven by self-efficacy, perceived power, reciprocity, feeling well-off, or affect. Examining materialism and mine-me sensitivity as individual differences moderating the effect of psychological ownership on prosocial behavior, we find that the effect does not hold for individuals low on materialism or mine-me sensitivity. Finally, we attenuate the effect of psychological ownership on prosocial tendencies by making the negative attributes of one’s possessions relevant.
Assessing the Science Benefit of Space Mission Concepts in the Formulation Phase

The formulation of science-driven space mission concepts is challenging – possibly even more so than the development and production of the space systems themselves. The formulation of these missions involves defining science objectives, surveying the state of the art of instrument capabilities, documenting the Program of Record and forecasting satellite lifetimes, defining feasible alternatives for spacecraft platforms and access to space, and identifying potentially enabled applications to cite only some of the tasks faced by mission design teams. The trade space is vast, especially in an era of novel platform concepts where constellations of SmallSats are changing the current paradigm of spaceborne observations. A crucial component of the formulation of science mission concepts is the assessment of the alternatives defined in this trade space. The assessment of the concepts is so complex that a heuristic approach does not sufficiently articulates the benefits of the alternatives under consideration. This complexity can be attributed to several factors. Science missions have to satisfy multiple science goals and their associated science objectives, therefore entering the realm of multi-criteria decision problems. In addition, multiple instruments, platforms, launchers, and ground system options are combined to define the architectures. The alternatives under assessment in these multi-criteria decision problems are numerous, as are the possible components of the segments that make up the architectures. Finally, stakeholders involved in the design and assessment of these science mission concepts have varying value systems: priorities relevant to stakeholders vary from group to group based on interests, objectives, and experiences. The complexity is such that the assessment requires a deliberate and structured approach to provide a comprehensive assessment of the mission concepts. This paper presents an approach that enables the assessment of the science benefits achieved by a space mission concept in the formulation phase. The approach combines Utility and Quality assessments provided by Subject Matter Experts to produce a Science Benefit score for each identified science objective. The paper discusses how this approach was tailored for the assessment of Observing Systems in the Aerosols, Cloud, Convection, and Precipitation (ACCP) study. In this Earth Science application, Utility quantifies how important a given geophysical variable is to addressing an identified science objective, while Quality quantifies how well an architecture obtains a geophysical variable with respect to Minimum levels listed in the Science Traceability Matrix. The resulting Benefit score articulates the science capability of a given architecture to address a given objective. This paper also presents the processes implemented to obtain the assessments from Subject Matter Experts in the ACCP study.
Performance Enhanced Ultrasound Probe Tracking With a Hemispherical Marker Rigid Body

Among tracking techniques applied in the 3-D freehand ultrasound (US), the camera-based tracking method is relatively mature and reliable. However, constrained by manufactured marker rigid bodies, the US probe is usually limited to operate within a narrow rotational range before occlusion issues affect accurate and robust tracking performance. Thus, this study proposed a hemispherical marker rigid body to hold passive noncoplanar markers so that the markers could be identified by the camera, mitigating self-occlusion. The enlarged rotational range provides greater freedom for sonographers while performing examinations. The single-axis rotational and translational tracking performances of the system, equipped with the newly designed marker rigid body, were investigated and evaluated. Tracking with the designed marker rigid body achieved high tracking accuracy with 0.57° for the single-axis rotation and 0.01 mm for the single-axis translation for sensor distance between 1.5 and 2 m. In addition to maintaining high accuracy, the system also possessed an enhanced ability to capture over 99.76% of the motion data in the experiments. The results demonstrated that with the designed marker rigid body, the missing data were remarkably reduced from over 15% to less than 0.5%, which enables interpolation in the data postprocessing. An imaging test was further conducted, and the volume reconstruction of a four-month fetal phantom was demonstrated using the motion data obtained from the tracking system.
Relative impacts of permeability heterogeneity and viscosity contrast on solute mixing

Solute transport and mixing in porous media are affected by the heterogeneous structure of the permeability field and the viscosity contrast between the dissolved solute and the ambient fluid. We provide a quantitative separation of the impacts of fingering and heterogeneity and we parameterize the concentration probability distribution function.
Secondary waves dynamics and their impact on detonation structure in rotating detonation combustors

In this work, we experimentally investigate secondary waves in rotating detonation combustor (RDC) operation. Secondary waves are finite-strength periodic perturbations of the field, which manifest as reacting fronts and/or pressure rise rotating around the annulus superimposed to one or more detonation waves. Secondary waves interact with the detonation wave, affecting the operation of the RDC, as well as the potential of realizing pressure gain. Through analysis of high-speed end-view chemiluminescence imaging in the detonation channel, the characteristics (speed, multiplicity, and strength) of different systems of waves are identified. The analysis indicates that in addition to the main detonation wave, two secondary wave systems are present: (1) a pair of co-rotating waves moving counter to the detonation wave at a speed near the acoustic speed of the products of combustion and (2) a wave moving counter to the detonation wave at a speed near that of the detonation wave. These two types of secondary waves are consistently observed in three canonical injection schemes. We further investigated the impact of the wave pair on the structure of the main detonation wave in one inlet configuration. By constructing conditional phase-averaged distributions of the pressure and OH* emission over the interaction between the detonation and secondary waves, we reconstruct the structure of the detonation wave during the interaction. The results show that there is a nonlinear interaction between the detonation and secondary waves, which results in an augmentation of the pressure rise (increase by as much as 60%) across the detonation wave as well as partial suppression of the heat release as the two waves interact (variation up to an order of magnitude). This nonlinear interaction is supported by differences in the temporal response of the air and fuel streams subject to the propagation of secondary waves, generating fill region stratification leading to the partial suppression of heat release when the secondary wave collides with the main detonation wave.
ABAS-II: Adaptive Behavior Assessment for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Publisher Summary Adaptive behavior is a critical component in the assessment and diagnosis of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). This chapter provides an overview of characteristics of individuals with IDD, and the key role played by adaptive behavior assessment in diagnostic decision making and problem solving to support the needs of this population. The Adaptive Behavior Assessment System-II (ABAS-II) is designed to measure adaptive skills and provides a standardized, multi-informant assessment with technical adequacy that can be utilized to identify adaptive skills from birth through adulthood. It identifies adaptive skills, and their strengths and weaknesses, and thus can aid in the design of developmentally appropriate goals and interventions. Adaptive behavior functioning, or an individual's ability to take care of oneself and interact with others, is intimately tied to the diagnosis and classification of intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) as well as planning necessary interventions and environmental supports. A case study is provided, showing how the ABAS-II can be used to establish a diagnosis of IDD and to identify adaptive skill weaknesses in need of intervention.
Effects of Race and Sex on Features of Eosinophilic Esophagitis.

Background & Aims Clinical and endoscopic features of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) differ between children and adults and among racial backgrounds. We investigated whether there were any associations between race or sex and clinical presentation, endoscopic features, and histologic findings from patients with EoE of various racial backgrounds. Methods We performed a retrospective, multicenter, cross-sectional analysis of 793 patients with EoE (476 adults and 317 children; mean age, 26 years; range, 0.1–84 years; 72% male) from clinical registries at 5 tertiary care centers in the United States. EoE was defined per consensus guidelines. Data with predetermined variables were extracted from clinical registries at each participating institution. Results Of the study cohort, 660 patients were white (83%), 77 were African American (10%), and 56 were of other races (7%). A significantly larger proportion of white persons than African Americans or other races had dysphagia (74%, 56%, and 53%, respectively; P P P P = .012). Males and females had similar clinical presentations, histories of atopy, findings from endoscopy, and histologic characteristics. A higher proportion of males than females had strictures (17% vs 11%; P = .038). Conclusions Race, and to a smaller degree sex, are associated with features of EoE. African Americans have different clinical symptoms and fewer endoscopic features of EoE than white persons. EoE should be considered in African Americans even without typical findings.
The responses of Ht22 cells to oxidative stress induced by buthionine sulfoximine (BSO)

Background glutathione (GSH) is the most abundant thiol antioxidant in mammalian cells. It directly reacts with reactive oxygen species (ROS), functions as a cofactor of antioxidant enzymes, and maintains thiol redox potential in cells. GSH depletion has been implicated in the pathogenesis of neurological diseases, particularly to Parkinson's disease (PD). The purpose of this study was to investigate the change of cellular antioxidant status and basic cell functions in the relatively early stages of GSH depletion.
Segmentation by Adaptive Geodesic Active Contours

This paper introduces the use of spatially adaptive components into the geodesic active contour segmentation method for application to volumetric medical images. These components are derived from local structure descriptors and are used both in regularization of the segmentation and in stabilization of the image-based vector field which attracts the contours to anatomical structures in the images. They are further used to incorporate prior knowledge about spatial location of the structures of interest. These components can potentially decrease the sensitivity to parameter settings inside the contour evolution system while increasing robustness to image noise. We show segmentation results on blood vessels in magnetic resonance angiography data and bone in computed tomography data.
The Absence of Passively Evolving Ellipticals in Deep Optical and Near-Infrared Surveys

The traditional view of elliptical galaxies has been that they formed in a single, rapid burst of star formation at high redshift, and have evolved quiescently since that time. In opposition to this traditional view is evidence that at least some elliptical galaxies have formed from the merger of two disk galaxies. What has not been clear is which process is the dominant formation mechanism for the large majority of elliptical galaxies. This question has significant implications for cosmological models, as different models make different predictions for the formation mechanism and epoch of elliptical galaxies. Here I use deep optical and near-infrared images to show that there are fewer galaxies with very red optical and near-infrared colors than predicted by models in which typical elliptical galaxies have completed their star formation by z >= 5. These observations require that elliptical galaxies have significant star formation at z < 5. This requirement, combined with constraints on lower redshift starbursts from the modest ultraviolet luminosities of galaxies in the Hubble Deep Field and the properties of galaxies from 0 < z < 1, suggests that elliptical galaxies form at moderate redshift in dusty starbursts and/or through the hierarchical merging of smaller objects.
Effect of Two Bedding Conditioners on Bacteria Counts and pH in Shavings~ Digested Manure Solids and Recycled Sand Bedding

A controlled trial was conducted in 16 commercial dairy herds to describe the effect of an alkalinizing (A) and an acidifying (B) bedding conditioner on bedding pH and bacterial counts when applied twice per week to stalls containing shavings (SH), digested manure solids (DS) or recycled sand (RS) bedding materials. Bedding pH and bacterial counts were measured in samples collected one day, and again in three to four days, after new conditioner was applied to the stalls. Conditioners A and B had an alkalinizing and acidifying effect, respectively, on bedding pH. Although conditioner A reduced coliform bacterial counts by between 0.7 and 1.6 logs in RS and DS bedding for one day and it had no effect on Klebsiella spp. or Streptococcus spp. bacterial counts in these bedding materials. Activity against coliform bacterial counts did not persist for three to four days. Conditioner A reduced bacterial counts in SH by between 0.3 to 1.3 logs for at least one day, but had no persistent activity for three to four days when stalls were rebedded. Conditioner B did not reduce bacterial counts in either DS or RS bedding, and actually increased Klebsiella spp. bacterial counts in DS. However, conditioner B reduced bacterial counts in SH for one day (0.4 to 1.8 log reduction, depending on the bacteria group), with antibacterial activity persisting for three to four days post-application (0.4 to 0.6 log reduction), even though stalls had been rebedded in the interval between conditioner application and collection of the day 3 to 4 bedding samples. For all bedding materials studied, bacterial counts were significantly lower in stalls for which fresh bedding had been added within the previous 24-48 hours. The magnitude of reduction in bacterial counts associated with having recently bedded stalls (approximately 1.6, 0.6, and 1.6 log reduction in coliform, Klebsiella spp., and Streptococcus spp. bacteria, respectively) was, on average, greater than the magnitude of reduction in bacterial counts attributed to the bedding conditioner treatments being studied. These findings suggest that the alkalinizing conditioner A will not be useful on commercial dairies, regardless of bedding type in use, if applied only twice per week in accordance with manufacturer recommendations. The acidifying conditioner B will not be useful on commercial dairies using DS or RS bedding, but may be useful to reduce bacterial counts in SH bedding. Finally, findings suggest that producers can significantly reduce bacterial exposure to teat ends simply by applying fresh bedding to stalls on a more frequent basis.
Using digital tools to faciliate writing research and student success in STEM courses

This presentation explores the affordances of digital assessment tools for STEM educators. By expediting instructor response and student peer reviews, digital assessment tools can foster successful integration of writing into the STEM curriculum. Digital tools can be used by STEM educators to mentor their teaching assistants and other staff as writers and instructors, inform evidence-based curriculum changes, inspire bigdata, corpus based research, and enable STEM writing programs to secure funding for corpus-based research investigations.
A 3′-flanking NF-κB site mediates developmental silencing of the human ζ-globin gene

The central developmental event in the human (h)alpha-globin gene cluster is selective silencing of the zeta-globin gene as erythropoiesis shifts from primitive erythroblasts in the embryonic yolk sac to definitive erythroblasts in the fetal liver. Previous studies have demonstrated that full developmental silencing of the hzeta-globin gene in transgenic mice requires the proximal 2.1 kb of its 3'-flanking region. In the current report, we localize this silencing activity to a 108 bp segment located 1.2 kb 3' to the zeta-globin gene. Protein(s) in nuclear extracts from cell lines representing the fetal/adult erythroid stage bind specifically to an NF-kappaB motif located at this site. In contrast, this binding activity is lacking in the nuclear extract of an embryonic-stage erythroid line expressing zeta-globin. This complex is quantitatively recognized by antisera to the NF-kappaB p50 and to a lesser extent to p65 subunits. A two-base substitution that disrupts NF-kappaB site protein binding in vitro also results in the loss of the developmental silencing activity in vivo. The data suggest that NF-kappaB complex formation is a crucial component of hzeta-globin gene silencing. This finding expands the roles of this widely distributed transcriptional complex to include negative regulation in mammalian development.
Testing the Condon Approximation for Electron Transfer via the Mulliken−Hush Model

For nonadiabatic electron-transfer reactions, it is common to make a Condon approximation assumption that the mixing matrix element is independent of nuclear geometry. We test the validity of the Condon approximation using Mulliken-Hush analysis applied to the biphenyl alcohol molecule at various geometries. Calculations of the energy splitting and electronic coupling matrix element as functions of geometry using semiempirical and ab initio methods are presented. Breakdown of the Condon approximation is observed, quantified, and analyzed.
Graduate teaching assistants' use of behavior alteration techniques in the university classroom

This study addressed graduate teaching assistants' use of Behavior Alteration Techniques (BATs) in the university courses they teach. Analyses included an examination of how BAT use impacts student affective learning and a comparison of these findings with professorial BAT use/influence. Results indicated that BAT use is significantly related to student affective learning for graduate teaching assistants and for professors. Discriminant analysis revealed that high/low affective learning can be reliably predicted by BAT use.
Tuning the equilibrium ion affinity and selectivity of the EF-hand calcium binding motif: substitutions at the gateway position.

The ion binding parameters of the EF-hand Ca2+ binding motif are carefully tuned for different biological applications. The present study examines the contribution of the ninth position of the Ca2+-coordinating EF-loop to the tuning of Ca2+ affinity and selectivity, using the model EF-loop of the Escherichia coli galactose binding protein. Eight side chains, representing the entire set of side chains commonly observed in natural EF-loop sequences, are tested at the ninth position of the model EF-loop to determine their effects on equilibrium ion binding parameters. Using the spherical metal ions of groups Ia, IIa, and IIIa and the lanthanides as probes, both the Ca2+ affinities and ionic selectivities of the engineered sites are quantitated. Neutral side chains of different size at the ninth EF-loop position [Gln (wild type), Asn, Thr, Ser, Ala, Gly] are observed to yield similar Ca2+ affinities and retain the native ability to exclude the physiological competing metal cations Na+, K+, and Mg2+. Acidic ga...
Reversible computing: All-optical implementation of interaction and priese gates

Abstract Integrated optics offers a particularly interesting candidate for implementing parallel, reversible computing structures operating in closer correspondence with the underlying microphysical laws which presume nondissipative interactions and global interconnections. An implementation of the computation-universal Interaction Gate is described, based upon Kaplan's bistable nonlinear interface. The gate, together with an optical crossover using a half-wave plate, comprise a construction-universal set.
In salah CO2 storage JIP: hydromechanical simulations of surface uplift due to CO2 injection at in salah

Abstract Large-scale carbon capture and storage projects involve injecting CO 2 into a porous, permeable formation that is overlain by an impermeable “caprock”. The In Salah Project (a joint venture of BP, Statoil and Sonatrach) includes a CO 2 sequestration effort that has successfully injected just over three million of tons of CO 2 into a deep saline formation close to a producing gas field in Algeria. We have performed detailed simulations of the hydromechanical response in the vicinity of the KB-502 CO 2 injector specifically because the morphology of the observed surface deformation differed from that above the other injectors at the field. Associated with the injection, we have simulated the mm-scale uplift of the overburden and compared the results with observed deformation using InSAR data. Our results indicate that the best fit is obtained through a combination of reservoir and fault pressurization (rather than either alone). However, our analysis had to make assumptions regarding the mechanical properties of the faults and the overburden. These results demonstrate that InSAR provides a powerful tool for gaining insight into fluid fate in the subsurface, but also highlight the need for detailed, accurate static geomodels.
Measuring CDR3 length variability in individuals during ontogeny

Abstract The portion of the antibody sequence that contributes most to the confornation of the antigen-combining site is the third complementarity-determining region (CDR3). The CDR3 in antibody heavy chains are somatically produced by the rearrangement of three different immunoglobulin (Ig) gene segments, VH, D and JH, and are therefore highly variable in sequence and length. We have devised a technique for rapid analysis of CDR3 length variability from a large number of cDNA samples. This technique allows comparative evaluation of IgH heterogeneity in individuals without recourse to DNA cloning and sequencing. We also present data on Ig sequences from different stages of development in the amphibian, Xenopus laevis. Most of the larval and post-metamorphic Ig samples contained CDR3 of 3–10 codons, two codons shorter than those of the adult CDR3, which were 5–12 codons. Antibodies made by immunized tadpoles have been shown to be much less diverse than those produced by adults to the same antigen. The shorter tadpole CDR3 perhaps generates a more limited spectrum of antigen-combing site structures and, in this way, makes for a more restricted antibody repertoire.
A detector for liquid chromatography and flow injection analysis using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy

A successful interface between a high-performance liquid chromatograph and a Raman spectrometer is described. Surface-enhanced techniques are utilized to overcome the sensitivity problem inherent to conventional Raman spectrometry by adding a Ag sol to the chromatographic effluent in a post-column mixing coil. The system is designed so that Raman spectra may be obtained from chromatographic effluent or from flow injection analysis effluent. A common organic dye (pararosaniline hydrochloride) is used to evaluate the reproducibility, dynamic range, and analytical capabilities of the system. The SERS instrument is found to be a viable detector for HPLC and FIA, capable of providing structural information with a sensitivity comparable to that of other commonly used HPLC detectors.
Zipf's Law in transcribed speech

Based on large samples of written text. ‘Zipf:s Law’ holds that the logarithms of frequencies of words, and the number of different words at those frequencies, have an inverse linear relationship. This study tested this law on an oral sample by analysis of a transcribed interview which had been conducted for an unrelated study. A second purpose was to test whether the law holds differently for open- vs closed-class words. The words in the interview were tabulated by frequencies and numbers of words at each frequency, and separated by syntactic class. As Zipf found for written samples, the law provides a reasonable summary of the data for the less frequently used words but predicts fewer different words among the most frequently used words than were actually found. Linear regressions performed for each syntactic class revealed that the regression equation for open-class words provided the best fit to Zipf's law. The sample of closed-class words, containing a much smaller proportion of low frequency words, revealed a poor fit to Zipf's law.
Fatigue at High Temperature-Prediction and Interpretation:

This lecture reviews the significant developments in fatigue over the last twenty years as they pertain to the prediction of life in high-temperature service. Particular attention is given to the interpretation of fatigue test results for both low and high cycle fatigue at room and elevated temperatures. Emphasis is given to such effects as environment, frequency and strain rate, metallurgical factors, wave shape and thermal cycling, and some attempt is made to sort out their relative importance. Applicability of low cycle fatigue information to notch geometries is discussed. Lastly considered is the significance of these several factors to the current state of life prediction as well as to future directions for development of this important topic.
Interpretation and correlation of ion exchange column performance under nonlinear equilibria

Various methods are known for interpreting experimental data for linear-equilibrium cases or constant-pattern break-through curves where either external or internal diffusion alone controls the rate in the ion exchange column. The present paper provides interpretive techniques for nonlinear equilibrium cases where the rate is controlled by a combined diffusion mechanism. The techniques can be applied whether or not the value of the equilibrium constant is known. A completely general correlational method is derived for adding the mass transfer resistances under conditions of nonlinear equilibrium. Published break-through results from numerous sources and from new measurements, evaluated by the techniques described, are used to determine the numerical constants for the general correlation.