cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An Experimental Study of Pin Fin Heat Sinks and Determination of End Wall Heat Transfer

An experimental study of a pin fin heat sink was carried out in support of the development of heat sink optimization methods requiring more detailed measurements be made. Measurements of heat flux and temperature are used to separately determine heat transfer coefficients for the pins and the base region between the pins. Three pitch to diameter ratios (distance from pin center to pin center measured diagonally) were studied: P/d = 3/1, 9/4, 3/2. Heat generation was accomplished using cartridge heaters inserted into a copper block. The high thermal conductivity of the copper ensured that the surface beneath the heat sink would be at a constant temperature. The cooling fluid was air and the experiments were conducted with a Reynolds numbers based on a porous media type hydraulic diameter ranging from 500 to 25000. The channel had a shroud that touches the fin tips, eliminating any flow bypass. The pin surface heat transfer coefficients match the values reported by Kays and London and by Zukauskas. The base region heat transfer coefficients were, surprisngly, larger than the pin values.© 2003 ASME
Aggression among adolescent victims of school bullying: protective roles of family and school connectedness

OBJECTIVES: To examine cross-sectional and 2-year longitudinal associations between school victimization and aggression among middle and high school students. Drawing on resilience theory, family and school connectedness were examined as compensatory or protective factors. METHOD: We sampled 373 students (Grades 7-10, 54% girls, 53% White/Caucasian, 26% Hispanic/Latino, and 56% economically disadvantaged), who completed up to 3 annual surveys. RESULTS: Aggression declined over the 3 waves. Victimization predicted higher initial levels of and steeper decline in aggression. Family connectedness was protective; baseline aggression was lower and declined more steeply for youth who reported more family connectedness. School connectedness played a complex role, potentially contributing to students' vulnerability over time. CONCLUSIONS: The steeper declines in aggression among victimized youth suggest a resilience process. High family connectedness and school belonging were linked to lower level of aggression regardless of victimization. Efforts to provide family support may be effective in reducing risk for aggression among victimized youth. Promoting students' sense of school belonging may compensate for negative effects of victimization on aggression in the short term; however, broader efforts directed at establishing a safe and supportive school climate and setting social norms that discourage school violence may be necessary to reduce the incidence of victimization and subsequent aggressive behavior. ©2016 American Psychological Association Language: en
Elution of Uranium and Transition Metals from Amidoxime-Based Polymer Adsorbents for Sequestering Uranium from Seawater

High-surface-area amidoxime and carboxylic acid grafted polymer adsorbents developed at Oak Ridge National Laboratory were tested for sequestering uranium in a flowing seawater flume system at the PNNL-Marine Sciences Laboratory. FTIR spectra indicate that a KOH conditioning process is necessary to remove the proton from the carboxylic acid and make the sorbent effective for sequestering uranium from seawater. The alkaline conditioning process also converts the amidoxime groups to carboxylate groups in the adsorbent. Both Na2CO3–H2O2 and hydrochloric acid elution methods can remove ∼95% of the uranium sequestered by the adsorbent after 42 days of exposure in real seawater. The Na2CO3–H2O2 elution method is more selective for uranium than conventional acid elution. Iron and vanadium are the two major transition metals competing with uranium for adsorption to the amidoxime-based adsorbents in real seawater. Tiron (4,5-dihydroxy-1,3-benzenedisulfonic acid disodium salt, 1 M) can remove iron from the adsorben...
Hypertension syndrome and cardiovascular events. High blood pressure is only one risk factor.

PREVIEWIt is becoming increasingly clear that high blood pressure is not the sole cause of the high cardiovascular morbidity and mortality rates associated with hypertension. Reduction of blood pressure is of utmost importance, but many other factors contribute significantly to the risk of adverse cardiovascular events and death. In this article, Dr Glasser reviews hypertension as a syndrome, emphasizing therapy to improve blood pressure control, increase arterial compliance, and inhibit or reverse vascular remodeling.
Simvastatin Inhibits Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition Through Induction of HO-1 in Cultured Renal Proximal Tubule Cells.

Background/aim Studies have shown that simvastatin (SIM) inhibits epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), a key step in fibrosis, and activates the anti-fibrotic heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) gene in renal proximal tubule cells independent of its lipid-lowering. We tested the hypothesis that SIM inhibits EMT via HO-1-dependent suppression of reactive oxygen species (ROS) release. Materials and methods Renal proximal tubule cells were treated with either 10 μM SIM or 10 ng/ml transforming growth factor-β1 (TGFβ1) or with their combination and promoter activity of the alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) gene, stress fiber formation (markers of EMT), as well as ROS production were determined. HO-1 was manipulated via genetic and pharmacologic means. Results SIM prevented TGFβ1-dependent EMT and ROS production. Inhibition/knockdown of HO-1 reversed, while induction/overexpression of HO-1 emulated beneficial effects of SIM. Conclusion SIM, via HO-1, suppresses TGFβ1-dependent ROS production and, hence, EMT. Further evaluation of the anti-fibrotic nature of SIM in the kidney would be useful in the treatment of chronic kidney disease.
The Query Language

The query language reflects all of the system functional requirements discussed in the preceding chapter, because it is the interface between the user of the file system and the automated search and storage components of the system. Hence, all of the design capabilities that are built into the file system by virtue of its structure must be made available to the user through the medium of the query language. It is important to realize that most users of an information system will probably be aware of the information structure of the files (i.e, whether it’s hierarchic, whether it’s associative, etc.), but they may be disinterested in the file organization (i.e., whether the lists are threaded or inverted, or whatever other means of file partitioning are employed). Furthermore, command of the greater capabilities that are designed into the system, by virtue of sophisticated DASDs, consoles, communications, processors, and advanced techniques can only be exercised by the nonprogrammer user through a properly designed task oriented query language. This represents a considerable design challenge, because the nonprogrammer user has certain traditional thought processes regarding file handling, which are not, in general, compatible with the way in which the computer has organized its files internally.
Polymers for Bioprinting

Abstract Bioprinting is a process of precisely designed scaffolds using three-dimensional printing technologies for functional tissue engineering utilizing cell-laden biomaterials as bioink. A range of polymers can be used as bioink to stimulate favorable cellular interactions, leading to enhanced cell motility, proliferation, and subsequent differentiation. Both natural and synthetic polymers have been considered for various bioprinting applications, each with a corresponding set of advantages and limitations. Natural polymers more aptly mimic the native extracellular matrix, leading to more favorable cellular responses, while synthetic polymers can be more easily tailored for more efficient printing. Because many of these bioink materials are rooted in traditional tissue engineering scaffold design, bioprinting optimization remains a challenge; however, emerging trends in bioink development have begun to circumvent these issues, providing bioprinting research with a very promising future in regenerative medicine. Further investigation into the interplay of polymer type and fabrication technique will help to formulate new polymer bioinks that can expedite the process from printing to implantation.
Transient superconductivity from electronic squeezing of optically pumped phonons

Advances in light sources and time-resolved spectroscopy have made it possible to excite specific atomic vibrations in solids and to observe the resulting changes in electronic properties, but the mechanism by which phonon excitation causes qualitative changes in electronic properties has remained unclear. Here we show that the dominant symmetry-allowed coupling between electron density and dipole active modes implies an electron-density-dependent squeezing of the phonon state that provides an attractive contribution to the electron–electron interaction, independent of the sign of the bare electron–phonon coupling and with a magnitude proportional to the degree of laser-induced phonon excitation. Reasonable excitation amplitudes lead to non-negligible attractive interactions that may cause significant transient changes in electronic properties, including superconductivity. The mechanism is generically applicable to a wide range of systems, offering a promising route to manipulating and controlling electronic phase behaviour in novel materials. Recent developments in advanced light sources have made it possible to transiently alter the electronic properties of materials by exciting specific atomic vibrations in solids. This study provides a theoretical framework for these experiments.
Multidisciplinary Finite Element Modeling and Simulation of Aerospace Vehicles

The paper presents details of a numerical formulation and the associated general-purpose finite element software developed for the integrated solution of complex engineering systems, encompassing such disciplines as structures, unsteady aerodynamics, and feedback controls. This is achieved by transforming the equations of motion from the frequency to the Laplace domain and formulating a state-space matrix relationship, the related matrices being further augmented by the analog elements such as actuators and filters as well as digital or analog controllers.
BEHAVIOR OF SALMONELLA DURING THE MANUFACTURE AND STORAGE OF A FERMENTED SAUSAGE PRODUCT1

The behavior of salmonellae during the manufacture and storage of Thuringer sausage was studied. Five serotypes of salmonellae behaved in a similar fashion during the fermentation period regardless of whether a Pediococcus sp. or Lactobacillus sp. starter culture was used. The number of salmonellae per gram of sausage emulsion decreased by 0.75 – 2.5 logs during the 18–24 hr of fermentation. Initial experiments indicated that a combination of the acidity that developed and the NaCl present was responsible for the demise of the salmonellae. Sodium nitrite, sodium nitrate, and ascorbic acid had little or no effect on the fate of salmonellae in the fermenting material. When the level of sucrose in the curing salt mixture was reduced to 0.25%, a product with a final pH of 5.2–5.4 resulted. Salmonellae were able to multiply in this sausage emulsion during the course of fermentation. Heat treatments employing three temperatures (46, 49, 52 C) were evaluated as to their efficiency in destroying salmonellae in Th...
Progress and disillusion: Civil repair and its discontents

Civil Sphere Theory (CST) provides a more dynamic, cultural, and democratically oriented model of contemporary society than either conflict or modernization theory. Civil spheres expand and contrac...
Bathrooms, Boundaries, and Emotional Burdens: Cisgendering Interactions Through the Interpretation of Transgender Experience

Building on findings demonstrating that social institutions may cisgender realities by creating and enforcing binary notions of gender rooted in cisgender experience, this study examines the ways cisgender people reinforce cisnormative gender binaries in their ongoing interactions. Utilizing interviews with 99 cisgender people, I show how respondents react to a vignette about a gender nonconforming person seeking to use a public bathroom by “cisgendering interactions,” which I define as the process whereby people reassert binary understandings of gender to make sense of transgender experience while placing an unequal emotional burden on transgender and gender nonconforming people to mend the interactional disruption of the gender panic. Additionally, my analysis extends transgender scholarship by demonstrating some ways cisgender people make sense of transgender people in public spaces. In conclusion, I draw out insights for understanding (1) the ways people cisgender their realities in the face of conflicting stimuli, (2) the ways in which emotions are a mechanism of inequality reproduction, and (3) the consequences these actions have for the perpetuation of gender inequality.
Corporate Spheres of Responsibility: Architects, Cowboys, and Eco-Warriors in Myanmar’s Oil & Gas Industry

Myanmar's recently opened economy is flush with incoming investment and activity. World leaders advocate that all businesses entering the country must operate in a "socially responsible manner." However, the history of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in Myanmar is undefined, contradictory, and complex. Thus, to get a handle around what it means to be “responsible,” this paper investigates the collective way in which actors in the petroleum industry in Myanmar enact CSR from 1990 to 2014. The oil and gas (O&G) industry is the most lucrative, and arguably powerful, national sector. The practice and philosophy of CSR, which originated in this industry, is now proclaimed to be the starting point for this newly charted course of responsible business in Myanmar. Yet, activists and critics maintain that CSR is an insincere PR measure of profit maximization whereby companies can conduct business as normal. I argue that CSR in the Myanmar petroleum industry is influenced by more complex factors than profit maximization or image management. CSR initiatives are sculpted by (1) the geography of petroleum extraction, (2) corporate philosophies and company national origins, and (3) type of company operations. The petroleum industry’s CSR activities to date, in terms of geographic span and development targets, all fit into a spectrum of assumed spheres of corporate responsibility that have been forged by the corporate ‘architects’ and tempered by geographic and global forces.
Jeff Bowling @ the Delta Companies: From Baseball Coach to CEO

What was essentially a sales organization is forced to morph quickly into a full-fledged healthcare staffing and recruiting business headed by a CEO who was a former baseball coach with no business background. But he knew enough to invest heavily in technology and to continuously look for ways to improve the flow of financial information to take advantage of his company's stellar growth that was fueled by a doctor shortage. Part of the company's success was attributed to its culture, driven by its employees. By 2008, Delta had moved up 589 spots on the Inc. 5000 list of America's Fastest-Growing Companies. Despite his company's continuing growth, the CEO does not intend to rest on his laurels. Excerpt UVA-ENT-0114 April 7, 2009 JEFF BOWLING @ THE DELTA COMPANIES: FROM BASEBALL COACH TO CEO The Delta Companies (Delta), headquartered in Dallas, Texas, was a privately held healthcare staffing and recruiting firm, specializing in permanent and temporary placement of physicians and mid-level healthcare professionals across the U.S. Delta's President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Jeff M. Bowling was a 20-something former baseball coach with no business background when he started the company in 1997 as Delta Medical Consulting. The start-up was funded by Dave Wood, a successful Texas businessman. In 2003, when Wood decided to sell the company, Bowling sold everything he owned and bought it. Under Bowling's leadership Delta expanded from about 20 to 240 employees without any outside investments, and within five years, the company was the third-fastest-growing private healthcare staffing firm in the United States, with annual revenues of $ 60 million. . . .
Failure of Immunologic Purging in Mantle Cell Lymphoma Assessed by Polymerase Chain Reaction Detection of Minimal Residual Disease

To assess the clinical significance of minimal residual disease (MRD) detection by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) we analyzed samples from 26 patients with mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) who had undergone bone marrow transplantation (BMT) at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. The BCL-1/IgH translocation and clonally rearranged Ig heavy chain genes (IgH) provided molecular markers for detection and follow-up of MRD by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification in 19 of the 26 (73%) MCL patients studied. IgH gene sequencing analysis showed somatic mutations in MCL that are characteristic of an antigen driven process suggesting that, in MCL, the final malignant transformation occurs in a mature B cell. Of the 19 patients with a PCR amplifiable marker, 17 underwent autologous, 1 an allogeneic, and 1 a syngeneic bone marrow transplantation (BMT). All patients had PCR-detectable MRD in the bone marrow (BM) at the time of BMT, irrespective of any history of histological BM involvement. In contrast to other B-cell malignancies, we found that immunological purging with complement-mediated lysis eradicated PCR-detectable MCL in only two patients. Moreover reinfusion of MRD was associated with a poor outcome. More than half of the patients undergoing autologous BMT had relapsed by the time of restaging at 2 years after autologous BMT. In four MCL patients in whom no residual lymphoma was reinfused, including the allogeneic and the syngeneic BMT, only one patient relapsed. Persistence of MRD detection after BMT was also associated with a high probability of relapse, although one patient did not have PCR-detectable MRD in peripheral blood or BM before relapse at nodal sites. We conclude that PCR amplification of disease-specific markers is a feasible and sensitive method to assess MRD and its clinical significance in patients with MCL. Moreover, PCR amplification provides a tool to evaluate modifications of purging and stem cell collection procedures that may be required for the management of this otherwise incurable disease.
Somatic hypermutation of T cell receptor α chain contributes to selection in nurse shark thymus

Since the discovery of the T cell receptor (TcR), immunologists have assigned somatic hypermutation (SHM) as a mechanism employed solely by B cells to diversify their antigen receptors. Remarkably, we found SHM acting in the thymus on α chain locus of shark TcR. SHM in developing shark T cells likely is catalyzed by activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID) and results in both point and tandem mutations that accumulate non-conservative amino acid replacements within complementarity-determining regions (CDRs). Mutation frequency at TcRα was as high as that seen at B cell receptor loci (BcR) in sharks and mammals, and the mechanism of SHM shares unique characteristics first detected at shark BcR loci. Additionally, fluorescence in situ hybridization showed the strongest AID expression in thymic corticomedullary junction and medulla. We suggest that TcRα utilizes SHM to broaden diversification of the primary αβ T cell repertoire in sharks, the first reported use in vertebrates.
THE SINGULAR PERTURBATION APPROACH TO SINGULAR ARCS

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses a singular perturbation approach to singular arcs. The asymptotic solution of the transformed problem consists of an outer expansion plus boundary layer corrections at two end points. The optimal control and optimal cost imply that the optimal control for both the original and transformed problems has an asymptotic form. Thus, the leading term of the optimal cost is unaffected by the boundary layer corrections. The chapter presents a transformation approach that has enabled the determination of the terms of relevant asymptotic expansions.
TGF-β isoforms in renal fibrogenesis

TGF-β isoforms in renal fibrogenesis. Background Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) is generally considered to be the major or predominant isoform involved in fibrosis, with the roles of TGF-β2 and -β3 being less clear. Because anti-TGF-β–specific isoform treatment is in development, it is important to know more precisely about isoform action. Here we compared the actions of each isoform on production and degradation of extracellular matrix proteins by cultured rat mesangial cells, renal fibroblasts, and tubular epithelial cells. We investigated endogenous production of each isoform, the effect of adding one isoform on the production of the other isoforms, and the response to addition of isoform combinations on matrix protein production. Isoform-specific antibodies were used to determine the relative contribution of these isoforms to matrix protein production. Methods Each cell type was treated with TGF-β (0.01 to 10ng/mL) alone or in different combinations. Living cell number was determined by 3-[4, 5] dimethylthiazol-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Supernatant fibronectin and TGF-β isoform concentration were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Collagen and proteoglycan production were measured by [ 3 H]-proline and [ 35 S]-sulfate incorporation, respectively. Matrix protein and TGF-β isoform gene expression were determined by Northern blot. Release of 3 H from preformed radiolabeled matrix by fibroblasts was used as a measure of matrix degradation. Results Each isoform increased matrix protein synthesis and reduced matrix degradation by renal cells similarly. Combination of TGF-β isoforms showed additive effects. No antifibrotic effect was observed with TGF-β3. TGF-β1 increased -β2 and -β3 production in a small and inconsistent manner. In contrast, TGF-β2 and -β3 stimulated TGF-β1 in all three cell types. Eighty percent of TGF-β3's fibrogenic effect was mediated by TGF-β1. A pan-specific antibody to TGF-β most effectively blocked plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 (PAI-1) synthesis by epithelial cells under oxidative stress. Conclusion All three TGF-β isoforms have fibrogenic effects on renal cells. TGF-β2 and TGF-β3 effects may be partially mediated by TGF-β1. These data suggest that blockade of all isoforms together may yield the best therapeutic effect in reducing renal fibrosis.
Fatal Transfusion Malaria

This report of fatal falciparum malaria emphasizes an unusual but potentially hazardous complication of blood transfusion. To our knowledge this is the first instance of fatal Plasmodium falciparum infection transmitted by this means. The source of infection was an asymptomatic donor who had resided outside an endemic area for more than 30 months. This is the longest interval thus far recorded that falciparum malaria has remained latent before transmission by transfusion.
Will PKM be Adopted by Industry

The most radical change in the design of machine tools this century has been the design of machine tools based on parallel kinematics. The introduction of the Variax of Giddings & Lewis and the Hexapod of Ingersoll in the International Machine Tool Show (Chicago, 1994) paved the way for the development of large number of prototype machine tools based on parallel kinematics rather than the traditional serial-link approach. However, does the cost/performance ratio of this new brand of parallel kinematic machines (PKM) justify their purchase for machining applications?
Histology Techniques for Nails

Sampling the nail unit for histopathologic analysis is often an important component of the diagnosis of nail disease, whether inflammatory, infectious or neoplastic. While skin biopsy is usually relatively straightforward, the nail unit presents some challenges in this regard. The physical properties of the hard keratin nail plate make biopsy access, specimen submission and processing more complicated. These limitations can greatly affect the quality of the specimen available for interpretation by the pathologist. This chapter will explore some of the techniques commonly used in the analysis of nail unit specimens and offer some ways to improve outcomes to optimize diagnostic success.
Similar or Different? A Comparison of Environmental Behaviors of US-Born Whites and Chinese Immigrants

Although immigration has been singled out as the major source of environmental degradation in the USA, research has found that the US-born population is more likely than the foreign-born population to be associated with worse air quality. This disparity may be a result of differences in environmental behaviors shaped by diverse cultures. While studies indicate that immigrants, in general, tend to be more environmentally friendly, less is known about how specific immigrant groups differ from the US-born population in environmental behaviors and how diverse cultures may contribute to environmentalism. This study compares household environmental behaviors of Chinese immigrants and US-born Whites, based on face-to-face interviews. The findings show differences and similarities in the environmental behaviors of the two groups. The Chinese immigrants were more likely than the US-born Whites to be frugal in household energy use, to drive less, and to recycle. However, the difference became less evident over time. Assimilation of immigrants into American culture thereby increases environmental harm. Instead, reciprocal assimilation that takes advantage of cultural diversity is more promising for environmental sustainability in a multicultural context.
What’s the meaning of this? Childhood socioeconomic status, inflammation, and meta-analysis

Abstract In an idealized world, a meta-analysis consolidates the literature, providing an “answer” to a question asked repeatedly by primary studies. However, in the real world, a meta-analysis can raise as many questions as it answers. Such is the case in this well-done meta-analysis of the literature correlating childhood socioeconomic status (SES) and inflammatory biomarkers ( Milaniak & Jaffee, 2019 ).
The receptor for advanced glycation end products is a critical mediator of type 2 cytokine signaling in the lungs

Background Asthma is estimated to effect more than 300 million persons worldwide, leading to nearly 250,000 deaths annually. The majority of patients with mild-to-severe asthma have what is deemed “type–2 high” asthma, which is driven by the prototypical type 2 cytokines IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13. Studies have indicated that the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) is a critical molecule in the pathogenesis of experimental asthma/allergic airway inflammation. More specifically, RAGE expressed on stromal cells, rather than hematopoietic cells, is critical to induction of asthma/allergic airway inflammation by driving type 2 inflammatory responses. However, the role of RAGE in directly mediating type 2 cytokine signaling has never been investigated. Objective The goal of this study was to test the hypothesis that RAGE mediates type 2 cytokine–induced signal transduction, airway inflammation, and mucus metaplasia in the lungs. Methods Wild-type (WT) and RAGE knockout (RAGE−/−) mice, were intranasally administered rIL-5/rIL-13 or rIL-4 alone, and signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 (STAT6) signaling, airway inflammation, and mucus metaplasia were assessed. A RAGE small-molecule antagonist was used to determine the effects of pharmacologically inhibiting RAGE on type 2 cytokine–induced effects. Results Administration of type 2 cytokines induced pronounced airway inflammation and mucus metaplasia in WT mice, which was nearly completely abrogated in RAGE−/− mice. In addition, treatment with a RAGE-specific antagonist diminished the effects of type 2 cytokines in WT mice and in primary human bronchial epithelial cell cultures. Genetic ablation or pharmacologic inhibition of RAGE blocks the effects of IL-13 and IL-4 by inhibiting sustained STAT6 activation and downstream target gene expression in mice and in human bronchial epithelial cells. Conclusions This study is the first to indicate that RAGE is a critical component of type 2 cytokine signal transduction mechanisms, which is a driving force behind type 2–high asthma.
Development and Use of an Injectable Form of Bioglass

ABSTRACT Biomaterials which can be delivered by injection have many clinical applications, especially in soft tissue augmentation. Collagen and particulate polytetrafluorethylene have been used in cosmetic, urological and otolaryngological surgery but have had problems of degradation and migration. An injectable form of Bioglass® developed which remains at the injection site by bonding to soft tissue without degrading, migrating or producing an inflammatory reaction. Preliminary experiments confirm its potential for use to treat urinary incontinance.
Semiclassical model for the absorption or emission of a photon by a charged particle in an intense static electric field

Quantum simulations made using Floquet methods show that a charged particle can exchange energy with an oscillating potential barrier in discrete quanta ħω, where ω is the frequency of oscillation. However, this exchange is classically forbidden because no other mass is included in the model, so that energy and momentum could not both be conserved in the absorption or emission of a photon. We define a semiclassical mechanism for these inelastic processes in which a photon may be absorbed by a charged particle moving against an intense static electric field, or emitted when the particle moves with this field. In this model, the particle has an energy loss Q in photon absorption, and an energy gain Q in photon emission. Then the particle travels a short distance at constant momentum until the energy increment Q is made up by the interaction with the static electric field, after which the particle resumes classical motion with the initial energy plus or minus exactly one quantum. We use the energy–time uncertainty relation to determine the minimum value for the static electric field that is required for this process, and this value is typical of the experimental conditions for laser-assisted scanning tunneling microscopy and laser-assisted field emission where the exchange of quanta is found to occur.
From Local Explanations to Global Understanding with Explainable AI for Trees.

Tree-based machine learning models such as random forests, decision trees and gradient boosted trees are popular nonlinear predictive models, yet comparatively little attention has been paid to explaining their predictions. Here we improve the interpretability of tree-based models through three main contributions. (1) A polynomial time algorithm to compute optimal explanations based on game theory. (2) A new type of explanation that directly measures local feature interaction effects. (3) A new set of tools for understanding global model structure based on combining many local explanations of each prediction. We apply these tools to three medical machine learning problems and show how combining many high-quality local explanations allows us to represent global structure while retaining local faithfulness to the original model. These tools enable us to (1) identify high-magnitude but low-frequency nonlinear mortality risk factors in the US population, (2) highlight distinct population subgroups with shared risk characteristics, (3) identify nonlinear interaction effects among risk factors for chronic kidney disease and (4) monitor a machine learning model deployed in a hospital by identifying which features are degrading the model’s performance over time. Given the popularity of tree-based machine learning models, these improvements to their interpretability have implications across a broad set of domains. Tree-based machine learning models are widely used in domains such as healthcare, finance and public services. The authors present an explanation method for trees that enables the computation of optimal local explanations for individual predictions, and demonstrate their method on three medical datasets.
Some Formal Semantics for Epistemic Modesty

Given the frequency of human error, it seems rational to believe that some of our own rational beliefs are false. This is the axiom of epistemic modesty. Unfortunately, using standard propositional quantification, and the usual relational semantics, this axiom is semantically inconsistent with a common logic for rational belief, namely KD45. Here we explore two alternative semantics for KD45 and the axiom of epistemic modesty. The first uses the usual relational semantics and bisimulation quantifiers. The second uses a topological semantics and standard propositional quantification. We show the two different semantics validate many of the same formulas, though we do not know whether they validate exactly the same formulas. Along the way we address various philosophical concerns.
Presence of human papillomavirus DNA in voriconazole-associated cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma.

Background Voriconazole and genus beta human papillomavirus (HPV) are independently associated with the development of photo-exposed cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) but have not been evaluated concurrently. The objective of this study is to determine the prevalence and type of detectable HPV DNA in voriconazole-associated SCC. Methods SCCs from immunosuppressed patients, in those with and without voriconazole exposure, were evaluated by PCR analysis for HPV DNA and compared to SCC from non-immunosuppressed patients. An additional expanded PCR analysis of all SCC that developed in the voriconazole group was also performed. Results HPV DNA was detected by PCR in all groups regardless of the immunosuppression status (80.5%) with beta HPV most prevalent (64.3-78.6%). However, immunosuppressed patients were significantly more likely to be infected by beta HPV types 5, 8, 14, 20, and 21 (P-value 0.014), and represented the majority of beta HPV types found in the voriconazole group. Conclusions In this retrospective study, beta HPV 5, 8, 14, 20, and 21 were commonly detected in voriconazole-associated SCC. The results indicate a possible role of beta HPV in the pathogenesis of cutaneous SCC in photo-exposed areas. Further studies are needed to establish the role of HPV and voriconazole in the pathogenesis of the lesion.
Fermentative production of sulfur-containing amino acid with engineering putative l-cystathionine and l-cysteine uptake systems in Escherichia coli.

Here, proteins involved in sulfur-containing amino acid uptake in Escherichia coli strains were investigated with the aim of applying the findings in fermentative amino acid production. A search of genes in an l-methionine auxotrophic strain library suggested YecSC as the putative transporter of l-cystathionine. l-Methionine production increased by 15% after amplification of yecSC in producer strains. A candidate protein responsible for l-cysteine uptake was also found by experimentation with multicopy suppressor E. coli strains that recovered from growth defects caused by l-cysteine auxotrophy. Based on the results of an uptake assay, growth using l-cysteine as a sole sulfur source, and sensitivity to l-cysteine toxicity, we proposed that YeaN is an l-cysteine transporter. l-Cysteine production increased by 50% as a result of disrupting yeaN in producer strain. The study of amino acid transporters is valuable to industrialized amino acid production and also sheds light on the role of these transporters in sulfur assimilation.
Interprofessional Practitioners' Opinions on Features and Services for an Augmentative and Alternative Communication Brain-Computer Interface Device.

BACKGROUND Brain-computer interface (BCI) technology is an emerging access method to augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices. OBJECTIVES To identify, in the early stages of research and development, the perceptions and considerations of interprofessional practice (IPP) team members regarding features and functions for an AAC-BCI device. DESIGN Qualitative research methodology applying a grounded theory approach using focus groups with a follow-up survey of participants using NVivo analysis software supporting inductive coding of transcription data. SETTING Focus groups held at university, clinic, and industry conference rooms. Discussion was stimulated by a 14-minute video on an AAC-BCI device prototype. The prototype hardware and electroencephalography (EEG) gel and dry electrode headgear were on display. PARTICIPANTS Convenience sample of practitioners providing rehabilitation or clinical services to individuals with severe communication disorders and movement impairments who use AAC and/or other assistive technology. INTERVENTIONS Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Descriptive statistics using thematic analysis of participants' opinions, input, and feedback on the ideal design for a noninvasive, EEG-based P300 AAC-BCI device. RESULTS Interrater and interjudge reliability were at 98% and 100%, respectively, for transcription and researcher coding. Triangulation of multiple data sources supported theme and subtheme identification that included design features, set-up and calibration, services, and effectiveness. An AAC device with BCI access was unanimously confirmed (100%) as a desirable commercial product. Participants felt that the AAC-BCI prototype appeared effective for meeting daily communication needs (75%). Results showed that participants' preference on headgear types would change based on accuracy (91%) and rate (83%) of performance. A data-logging feature was considered beneficial by 100% of participants. CONCLUSIONS IPP teams provided critical impressions on design, services, and features for a commercial AAC-BCI device. Expressed feature and function preferences showed dependence on communication accuracy, rate, and effectiveness. This provides vital guidance for successful clinical deployment.
Bitter Rot of Apple in the Mid-Atlantic United States: Causal Species and Evaluation of the Impacts of Regional Weather Patterns and Cultivar Susceptibility.

Apple growers in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States have been reporting an increase in losses to bitter rot of apple and are requesting up-to-date management recommendations. Management i...
Factors Associated with Incomplete Endodontic Care.

Abstract Introduction Incomplete endodontic treatment has been associated with detrimental health outcomes. Methods This retrospective study reviewed charts of patients receiving endodontic care over a 1-year period at the Postgraduate Endodontic Clinic at Rutgers School of Dental Medicine, Newark, NJ, to assess whether factors such as receipt of palliative endodontic care and demographic factors were associated with completion, or noncompletion, of initial nonsurgical root canal therapy (RCT). Results A total of 1806 patient charts met the study inclusion criteria. With descriptive statistics and bivariate analysis, the variables of palliative care, Medicaid recipient, age group, and distance from the clinic were significantly associated with RCT completion (P Conclusions Incomplete nonsurgical endodontic treatment is highly associated with the receipt of prior palliative care. Further research is indicated to investigate additional factors that may influence patient completion of endodontic care and opportunities to improve public health care program design to obtain optimal patient-centered outcomes.
Nano Mechanics and Materials: Theory, Multiscale Methods and Applications

Preface. 1. Introduction. 1.1 Potential of Nanoscale Engineering. 1.2 Motivation for Multiple Scale Modeling. 1.3 Educational Approach. 2. Classical Molecular Dynamics. 2.1 Mechanics of a System of Particles. 2.2 Molecular Forces. 2.3 Molecular Dynamics Applications. 3. Lattice Mechanics. 3.1 Elements of Lattice Symmetries. 3.2 Equation of Motion of a Regular Lattice. 3.3 Transforms. 3.4 Standing Waves in Lattices. 3.5 Green's Function Methods. 3.6 Quasistatic Approximation. 4. Methods of Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics. 4.1 Basic Results of the Thermodynamic Method. 4.2 Statistics of Multiparticle Systems in Thermodynamic Equilibrium. 4.3 Numerical Heat Bath Techniques. 5. Introduction to Multiple Scale Modeling. 5.1 MAAD. 5.2 Coarse Grained Molecular Dynamics. 5.3 Quasicontinuum Method. 5.4 CADD. 5.5 Bridging Domain. 6. Introduction to Bridging Scale. 6.1 Bridging Scale Fundamentals. 6.2 Removing Fine Scale Degrees of Freedom in Coarse Scale Region. 3D Generalization. 6.3 Discussion on the Damping Kernel Technique. 6.4 Cauchy-Born Rule. 6.5 Virtual Atom Cluster Method. 6.6 Staggered Time Integration Algorithm. 6.7 Summary of Bridging Scale Equations. 6.8 Discussion on the Bridging Scale Method. 7. Bridging Scale Numerical Examples. 7.1 Comments On Time History Kernel. 7.4 Two-Dimensional Wave Propagation. 7.5 Dynamic Crack Propagation in Two Dimensions. 7.6 Dynamic Crack Propagation in Three Dimensions. 7.7 Virtual Atom Cluster Numerical Examples. 8. Non-Nearest Neighbor MD Boundary Condition. 8.1 Introduction. 8.2 Theoretical Formulation in 3D. 8.3 Numerical Examples - 1D Wave Propagation. 8.4 Time History Kernels for FCC Gold. 8.5 Conclusion on the Bridging Scale Method. 9. Multiscale Methods for Material Design. 9.1 Multiresolution Continuum Analysis. 9.2 Multiscale Constitutive Modeling of Steels. 9.3 Bio-Inspired Materials. 9.4 Summary and Future Research Directions. 10. Bio-Nano Interface. 10.3 Vascular Flow and Blood Rheology. 10.4 Electrohydrodynamic Coupling. 10.5 CNT/DNA Assembly Simulation. 10.6 Cell Migration and Cell-Substrate Adhesion. 10.7 Conclusions. Appendix A: Kernel Matrices for EAM Potential. Bibliography. Index.
We're All Capitalists Now: The Importance, Provision and Regulation of Investor Education

The paper studies investor education so as to evaluate and guide increasing educational efforts. It first discusses the conditions that have made investor education important and inevitable in the U.S. The paper then presents a theoretical framework that identifies three kinds of investor education -- education about saving, investing and financial fraud. In considering the parties best competent to provide them, it observes that families might accomplish each kind, with high schools also offering, as many now do, general financial education. Consumer financial services firms, moreover, should conduct, and do, in fact, provide, saving and investing education as initial or continuing investor training. Federal and state regulators of financial services should, therefore, limit their tasks to educating consumers about financial fraud and abuse and to persuading them to save, invest and use the educational products and services of private firms. As an application of the theoretical perspective, the paper analyzes the major investor educational initiatives of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The SEC should improve its educational efforts by redirecting its own activities in accordance with the paper's guidance to concentrate on anti-fraud education and to promote and facilitate private investor education.
Security at what cost

In the presently heightened security environment in the United Kingdom there are a number of examples of policy that must strike a delicate balance between strengthening security and endangering civil liberties and personal privacy. The introduction of national identity cards and biometric passports, expansion of the National DNA Database and inter-departmental sharing of personal information raise a number of privacy issues. Human rights may also be suspended by the exercise of stop-and-search powers by the police or the detention of suspects prior to trial. However, much of the current debate concerning civil liberties and security is adversarial, and little robust research data informs arguments on both sides. This paper outlines the results of a study that attempts to objectively understand the real privacy, liberty and security trade-offs made by individuals, so that policymakers can be better informed about the preferences of individuals with regard to these important issues.
High Resolution Field Cycling NMR Relaxometry Identifies Novel Phospholipid Binding Sites on PTEN and the Akt1 PH Domain

Amphitropic proteins have a variety of strategies to bind to target membranes. Electrostatic interactions often drive them to the membrane where other interactions occur. The latter can include hyd...
Stochastic Optimization for Natural Disaster Asset Prepositioning

A key strategic issue in pre-disaster planning for humanitarian logistics is the pre-establishment of adequate capacity and resources that enable efficient relief operations. This paper develops a two-stage stochastic optimization model to guide the allocation of budget to acquire and position relief assets, decisions that typically need to be made well in advance before a disaster strikes. The optimization focuses on minimizing the expected number of casualties, so our model includes first-stage decisions to represent the expansion of resources such as warehouses, medical facilities with personnel, ramp spaces, and shelters. Second-stage decisions concern the logistics of the problem, where allocated resources and contracted transportation assets are deployed to rescue critical population (in need of emergency evacuation), deliver required commodities to stay-back population, and transport the transfer population displaced by the disaster. Because of the uncertainty of the event's location and severity, these and other parameters are represented as scenarios. Computational results on notional test cases provide guidance on budget allocation and prove the potential benefit of using stochastic optimization.
Effects of water on the mechanical relaxation in polyamide 4

The relaxation behavior of polyamide 4 was investigated as a function of absorbed moisture using dynamic mechanical measurements. Two relaxations, α at 81 °C and γ at — 111°C, were observed in the “dry” sample at a frequency of 1 Hz. The addition of water resulted in the depression of the α relaxation (αw) of the “wet” polyamide and the appearance of a second α relaxation (αd), slightly depressed from that of the “dry” specimen, reflecting the movements of the polymer chains after water has evaporated during the heating scan of the experiment. A second run was performed, resulting in the appearance of a single relaxation peak (α) at temperature very close to that of “dry” polyamide 4. Additionally, a β transition was observed whose temperature decreased with increasing water content. Similar results were obtained for specimens of polyamide 6. From plots of the depression of the glass transition temperature, ΔTg, as a function of the ratio of the number of water molecules to the number of accessible amide groups in the amorphous regions, R, one observes a sharp depression in the glass transition temperature with increasing water content up to some critical value, above which additional water molecules do not significantly change the glass transition temperature. Based on existing models for the sorption of water in polyamides, we propose a model whereby the environment of the polymer—water complex varies with the amount of water added to the system. At low water contents, both loosely and tightly bound water exist at the sorption centers, or amide groups. Above the critical water concentration, additional water molecules form clusters at these sorption centers. Additional aspects of the model explain the appearance of two α or primary relaxation peaks (αw and αd) due to the changing environments as a consequence of the heating scan of the dynamic mechanical measurements.