cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Human neural stem cell growth and differentiation in a gradient-generating microfluidic device

This paper describes a gradient-generating microfluidic platform for optimizing proliferation and differentiation of neural stem cells (NSCs) in culture. Microfluidic technology has great potential to improve stem cell (SC) cultures, whose promise in cell–based therapies is limited by the inability to precisely control their behavior in culture. Compared to traditional culture tools, microfluidic platforms should provide much greater control over cell microenvironment and rapid optimization of media composition using relatively small numbers of cells. Our platform exposes cells to a concentration gradient of growth factors under continuous flow, thus minimizing autocrine and paracrine signaling. Human NSCs (hNSCs) from the developing cerebral cortex were cultured for more than 1 week in the microfluidic device while constantly exposed to a continuous gradient of a growth factor (GF) mixture containing epidermal growth factor (EGF), fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF). Proliferation and differentiation of NSCs into astrocytes were monitored by time-lapse microscopy and immunocytochemistry. The NSCs remained healthy throughout the entire culture period, and importantly, proliferated and differentiated in a graded and proportional fashion that varied directly with GF concentration. These concentration-dependent cellular responses were quantitatively similar to those measured in control chambers built into the device and in parallel cultures using traditional 6-well plates. This gradient-generating microfluidic platform should be useful for a wide range of basic and applied studies on cultured cells, including SCs.
Policy entrepreneurs, issue experts, and water rights policy change in Colorado.

Policy entrepreneurs can influence policy changes and decisions. These people invest their time, knowledge, and skills into promoting policies with which they agree. This paper investigates the influence that entrepreneurs had in the case of recreational water rights policy in Colorado to build a model of policy entrepreneurship. Almost 20 Colorado communities have constructed white-water kayak courses to boost their local economies. In twelve of these communities, construction was followed by community pursuit of a new form of water right—the recreational in-channel diversion. This case study is relevant to many areas of environmental policy and management where policies are transitioning from traditional consumptive uses of the resource to nonconsumptive uses. This policy change was not a given in Colorado communities, with recreational water rights requiring significant investments of community resources. These research findings conclude that policy entrepreneurs were influential to policy change, but the most important actors were expert entrepreneurs who hold expertise in water resource matters.
Efficient production of silicon-on-insulator films by co-implantation of He/sup +/ with H/sup +/

The thin film separation process with H/sup +/ proceeds by both chemical interactions (bond breaking and internal surface passivation) and physical interaction (gas coalescence, pressure, fracture) of implanted H/sup +/ with the Si substrate. It is difficult to isolate the contribution of each component to the overall process using implantation of H only. In this work, we have combined H/sup +/ and He/sup +/ gas implantation to decouple the physical and chemical contributions to the blistering and thin film separation processes. We have observed that combination of H and He gas implants results in a synergistic effect that allows the threshold dose for both processes to be significantly reduced.
A high-order perturbation of surfaces (HOPS) approach to Fokas integral equations: Vector electromagnetic scattering by periodic crossed gratings

Abstract The accurate simulation of linear electromagnetic scattering by diffraction gratings is crucial in many technologies of scientific and engineering interest. In this contribution we describe a High-Order Perturbation of Surfaces (HOPS) algorithm built upon a class of Integral Equations due to the analysis of Fokas and collaborators, now widely known as the Unified Transform Method. The unknowns in this formalism are boundary quantities (the electric field and current at the layer interface) which are an order of magnitude fewer than standard volumetric approaches such as Finite Differences and Finite Elements. With detailed numerical experiments we show the efficiency, fidelity, and high-order accuracy one can achieve with an implementation of this algorithm.
The Role of the Common Law in Defining and Protecting the Environment: A Prolegomenon

This article surveys contemporary issues in defining and protecting the environment. It stresses the continuing relevance of common law methodology and doctrine. It reviews the development and imprecision of the term "environment," together with the influence of various philosophical and utilitarian views of environmentalism. These are juxtaposed against corresponding approaches to human flourishing. Finally, the article analyzes how contemporary notions devaluing meaning of property and property rights have contributed towards a lack of interest in developing common law principles - principally those of nuisance - in dealing with environmental issues.
Ultrasensitive humidity detection using metal-organic framework-coated microsensors.

The use of metal–organic framework (MOF) thin films to detect water vapor across a wide concentration range is demonstrated using MOF-functionalized quartz surface acoustic wave (SAW) sensors. A range of 3–14 800 ppmv was obtained with thin films of the MOF Cu3(benzenetricarboxylate)2 (Cu-BTC) deposited by an automated layer-by-layer method. Devices coated by a manual technique demonstrated sensitivity from 0.28 to 14 800 ppmv, the limit of our test system. This exceeds the sensitivity of many commercially available sensors. Cu-BTC layers were covalently bonded directly to the silicon oxide surface, allowing devices to be heated beyond 100 °C to desorb water adsorbed in the pores without decomposition, thereby regenerating the sensors. Sensor response as a function of coating thickness was evaluated, showing that the SAW sensor response is bounded by maximum and minimum layer thicknesses. Computer simulation of H2O uptake shows a multistep adsorption isotherm defined by initial adsorption at open Cu-sites...
Extracellular and Intracellular Phenoloxidase Activity during Growth and Development in Schizophyllum

Phenoloxidase activity was studied during different phases of the fruiting response in Schizophyllum commune. Refined methods of growth were utilized which allowed the patterns of extracellular and intracellular phenoloxidase activity to be studied separately. Extractable intracellular protein and excreted protein levels were measured and compared with phenoloxidase activity. Specific enzyme activity observed during the fruiting cycle was found to be relatively independent of measured protein levels and largely reflected extracellular activity. The results of mixing experiments suggested that the decline in phenoloxidase activity in mature fruiting colonies may have been due to the presence of inhibitory substances produced during development.
Progesterone receptor antagonism inhibits progestogen-related carcinogenesis and suppresses tumor cell proliferation.

Abstract Purpose Blockade of the progestogen–progesterone receptor (PR) axis is a novel but untested strategy for breast cancer prevention. We report preclinical data evaluating telapristone acetate (TPA), ulipristal acetate (UPA), and mifepristone. Methods Tumors were induced with medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) plus 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) in mice, and MPA or progesterone plus N-methyl-N-nitrosourea (MNU) in rats. Mammary gland histology, tumor incidence, latency, multiplicity, burden and histology were evaluated, along with immunohistochemical labeling of pHH3 (proliferation), CD34 (angiogenesis), and estrogen and progesterone receptors (ER and PR). A concentration gradient of TPA, UPA, and mifepristone was tested for growth inhibition of T47D spheroids. Results In mouse mammary glands, no tumors formed, but TPA opposed the pro-hyperplastic effects of MPA (p = 0.002). In rats, TPA decreased tumor incidence (p = 0.037 for MPA + TPA vs. MPA, and p = 0.032 for progesterone + TPA vs. progesterone) and tumor burden (p = 0.042 for progesterone + TPA vs. progesterone), with significant decreases in pHH3 and CD34 positive cells. TPA and UPA were superior to mifepristone in growth inhibition of T47D spheroids. Conclusion TPA has consistent anti-tumorigenic effects in several models, which are accompanied by decreases in cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and hormone receptor expression.
Scheduling Interrelated Tasks in Grid Based on Ant Algorithm

Task scheduling is one of the most important factors of system performance in grid computing,many current algorithms which ignore the relations of tasks assume the scheduled task is Meta-task.According to Graph Theory,the interrelation of tasks can be described as Directed Acyclic Graphs,which can exactly define the priority of each task.In addition,the ant algorithm can effectively implement task scheduling and loading balance.The ultimate assign scheme was obtained by using the task priority to rearrange the Meta-task scheduling results generated by ant algorithm.Simulation demonstrates that the algorithm can schedule interrelated tasks in variety of grid environment and it also can guarantee loading balance of the system because of the using of ant algorithm.
Cascading Failure Model of Power Grids Considering Frequency Response Characteristics and Hidden Failures

In bulk power systems, cascading failures initiated by normal events often lead to blackouts. For the purpose of researching how the failures spread in power grids, estimating the risk and the loss of cascading failures and finding key lines, a cascading failure model is established from the aspect of the power system analysis. The hidden failures and power system frequency response characteristics are considered in this model and it can be used to help designers and operators of power grids to get the critical value of loading rate in relation to risk of cascading failures,key lines and risk indices of some operating state. Finally, the model is tested on IEEE RTS96 system and the results are in accordance with that attained using PSASP and the preceding conclusions.
Epidemiological investigation and analysis of risk factors of Clonorchis sinensis infection in rural area of Zhuhai city in 2010

Objective To understand the current status of Clonorchis sinensis infection for making effective control measures in rural area of Zhuhai city. Methods Modified Kato-Katz method was used to detect the Clonorchis sinensis eggs in feces. Knowledge and Prevention of Clonorchis sinensis were investigated. Results 1000 respondents in 5 towns were investigated, and 6.3% of them were infected. Middle-aged men were the main infected groups. The awareness rate of Clonorchis sinensis prevention knowledge was 87.8% . Using the different chopping board for handling both cooked and raw foods was the protective measure for avoid infection of Clonorchis sinensis [OR=0.11,OR95% C.I.(0.02-0.62)]. Conclusion The rate of Clonorchis sinensis infection was lower than the provincial average of Guangdong province. The awareness rate of Clonorchis sinensis prevention knowledge was high. Using the different chopping board for handling both cooked and raw foods was the protective measure to avoid infection of Clonorchis sinensis.
Biliary Tract Disease in Pregnancy

Abstract The timely diagnosis and treatment of biliary tract conditions during pregnancy are challenging. Familiarity with the anatomic and physiologic changes present in normal pregnancy is essential, as is the knowledge of relative risk of complications by trimester. Physicians should be aware that virtually all complications that occur in the management of these conditions are caused by delay in the detection of the disease process. Recent advances in minimally invasive therapy including laparoscopic surgery and therapeutic gastro-intestinal endoscopy have changed the traditional approach to biliary tract disease in pregnancy. We present a case report of a patient with acute gallstone pancreatitis during pregnancy managed endoscopically without the use of fluoroscopy.
pH dependence of myosin binding-induced activation of the thin filament in cardiac myocytes and skeletal fibers

The pH dependence of myosin binding-induced thin filament activation was determined in permeabilized cardiac myocytes and slow- and fast-twitch single skeletal muscle fibers by experimental lowering of [MgATP] in the Ca(2+)-free solutions bathing the permeabilized preparations. As the pS (where S is [MgATP] and pS is -log[MgATP]) was increased from 3.0 to 8.0, isometric tension increased to a peak value in the pS range of 4.9-5.3. At pH 7.00, the transition from the relaxed to the activated rigor state was steep in cardiac myocytes [Hill value (nH) = 21.2 +/- 3.1 (SE)] and due to the apparent effect of strongly bound cross bridges to cooperatively activate the thin filament in the absence of added Ca2+. At pH 6.20, the steepness of the tension-pS relationship was markedly reduced (nH = 6.1 +/- 1.0) and the midpoint of the relationship (pS50) was shifted to higher pS values in cardiac myocytes. In comparison, reduced pH had no effect on the steepness or position of the tension-pS relationship in single slow- or fast-twitch skeletal muscle fibers. These findings suggest that myosin binding-induced activation of the thin filament is pH dependent in cardiac myocytes but not in skeletal muscle fibers under these experimental conditions in which Ca2+ is absent.
Arendt, Kant and the Beauty of Politics: A Phenomenological View

This essay is an attempt to define Arendt’s “aesthetic politics” or “aesthetic political theory.” It is based on Kant’s aesthetics as the philosophical discipline of “the beautiful and the sublime” and Heidegger’s ecstatic conception of temporality as attunement (Befindlichkeit) to the world. Arendt’s aesthetic politics is found in her hitherto often unexamined “thinking diary” (Denktagebuch), which draws its inspiration from Kant’s “aesthetic judgment” as something entirely new and imaginative. It replaces the “war” of power politics with the “peace” of aesthetic politics. Aesthetic politics as “a new political principle” also reveals the poverty of American politics.
A whole genome gene content phylogenetic analysis of anopheline mosquitoes

Abstract Construction of stringent gene content matrices was accomplished for 21 Anopheline mosquito species and strains and four outgroups species. The presence absence matrix using e−75 as a cutoff in single linkage clustering had over 17,000 ortholog groups. We used the gene content matrix to generate a phylogenetic hypothesis that is in general agreement with gene sequence based phylogenies. In addition to establishing a congruent gene content phylogeny we examined the consistency of three methods for analyzing presence absence data – unweighted parsimony, dollo parsimonly and maximum likelihood using a BINGAMMA model. An examination of the chromosomal location of the gains and losses in the presence absence matrix revealed a low frequency of gains and losses at centromeres and tips of chromosomes.
Kinematic noise propagation and grasp quality evaluation

To determine a force-closure grasp, current grasp synthesis algorithms either assume a deterministic model to compute a desired finger placement without noise, or model the end-effector position as a free-floating rigid body whose noise in pose is independent of the kinematic chain formed by the robot arm. In this work we instead explore a probabilistic approach that explicitly models noise in joint-angles. By sampling additive noise that is applied to a pre-grasp configuration and studying the resulting probability of force-closure when the robot fingers are closed, we observe in experiments that joint-angle positions can have a remarkable effect on the probability of successfully restraining an object. We systematically study the grasp quality value as a random variable and investigate the convergence of sampling based estimators for the mean, covariance and moments up to third order of this quantity by means of Montecarlo Sampling. We study illustrative examples of the impact of initial joint-configurations on the likelihood of force closure on a seven degree of freedom simulated Kuka lightweight robot arm.
Context-dependent regulation of pectoralis myostatin and lipid transporters by temperature and photoperiod in dark-eyed juncos.

A prominent example of seasonal phenotypic flexibility is the winter increase in thermogenic capacity (=summit metabolism, [Formula: see text]) in small birds, which is often accompanied by increases in pectoralis muscle mass and lipid catabolic capacity. Temperature or photoperiod may be drivers of the winter phenotype, but their relative impacts on muscle remodeling or lipid transport pathways are little known. We examined photoperiod and temperature effects on pectoralis muscle expression of myostatin, a muscle growth inhibitor, and its tolloid-like protein activators (TLL-1 and TLL-2), and sarcolemmal and intracellular lipid transporters in dark-eyed juncos Junco hyemalis. We acclimated winter juncos to four temperature (3 °C or 24 °C) and photoperiod [short-day (SD) = 8L:16D; long-day (LD) = 16L:8D] treatments. We found that myostatin, TLL-1, TLL-2, and lipid transporter mRNA expression and myostatin protein expression did not differ among treatments, but treatments interacted to influence lipid transporter protein expression. Fatty acid translocase (FAT/CD36) levels were higher for cold SD than for other treatments. Membrane-bound fatty acid binding protein (FABPpm) levels, however, were higher for the cold LD treatment than for cold SD and warm LD treatments. Cytosolic fatty acid binding protein (FABPc) levels were higher on LD than on SD at 3 °C, but higher on SD than on LD at 24 °C. Cold temperature groups showed upregulation of these lipid transporters, which could contribute to elevated Msum compared to warm groups on the same photoperiod. However, interactions of temperature or photoperiod effects on muscle remodeling and lipid transport pathways suggest that these effects are context-dependent.
Minimum Wage and Retail Price Pass-Through: Evidence and Estimates from Consumption Data

This paper utilizes transaction-level data to examine the effect of the minimum wage on US retail prices. We find minimal price pass-through across a variety of identification strategies. Additionally, there is no evidence of anticipation/retrospective adjustment in prices, heterogeneous responses based on the size of increase, or heterogeneous effects on consumers of different income groups. Labor cost data rationalize these findings. Since labor is a small portion of costs in this sector and the effect of the minimum wage on labor costs is modest, price responses are small. Estimates from other industries suggest that minimal pass-through holds more generally.
γ spectroscopy of states in Cl 32 relevant for the S 31 ( p , γ ) Cl 32 reaction rate

Background: The $^{31}\mathrm{S}(p,\ensuremath{\gamma})\phantom{\rule{0.16em}{0ex}}^{32}\mathrm{Cl}$ reaction becomes important for sulfur production in novae if the $^{31}\mathrm{P}(p,\ensuremath{\alpha})^{28}\mathrm{Si}$ reaction rate is somewhat greater than currently accepted. The rate of the $^{31}\mathrm{S}(p,\ensuremath{\gamma})\phantom{\rule{0.16em}{0ex}}^{32}\mathrm{Cl}$ reaction is uncertain, primarily due to the properties of resonances at ${E}_{\mathrm{c}.\mathrm{m}.}=156$ and 549 keV.Purpose: We precisely determined the excitation energies of states in $^{32}\mathrm{Cl}$ through high-resolution $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ spectroscopy including the two states most important for the $^{31}\mathrm{S}(p,\ensuremath{\gamma})\phantom{\rule{0.16em}{0ex}}^{32}\mathrm{Cl}$ reaction at nova temperatures.Method: Excited states in $^{32}\mathrm{Cl}$ were populated using the $^{10}\mathrm{B}(^{24}\mathrm{Mg},2n)\phantom{\rule{0.16em}{0ex}}^{32}\mathrm{Cl}$ reaction with a $^{24}\mathrm{Mg}$ beam from the ATLAS facility at Argonne National Laboratory. The reaction channel of interest was selected using recoils in the Fragment Mass Analyzer, and precise level energies were determined by detecting $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ rays with Gammasphere.Results: We observed $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ rays from the decay of six excited states in $^{32}\mathrm{Cl}$. The excitation energies for two unbound levels at ${E}_{x}=1738.1$ (6) keV and 2130.5 (10) keV were determined and found to be in agreement with a previous high-precision measurement of the $^{32}\mathrm{S}(^{3}\mathrm{He},t)^{32}\mathrm{Cl}$ reaction [1].Conclusions: An updated $^{31}\mathrm{S}(p,\ensuremath{\gamma})\phantom{\rule{0.16em}{0ex}}^{32}\mathrm{Cl}$ reaction rate is presented. With the excitation energies of important levels firmly established, the dominant uncertainty in the reaction rate at nova temperatures is due to the strength of the resonance corresponding to the 2131-keV state in $^{32}\mathrm{Cl}$.
Introduction to Liquid Phase Sintering

Packed powders will bond together when heated to temperatures in excess of approximately half of the absolute melting temperature. This phenomenon is termed sintering. A common characteristic of ail forms of sintering is a reduction in surface area with concomitant compact strengthening. This occurs through the formation of interparticle bonds brought about by atomic motion at the sintering temperature. During liquid phase sintering a liquid phase coexists with a particulate solid at the sintering temperature. The liquid phase usually enhances the rate of interparticle bonding during sintering. Accompanying interparticle bonding are significant changes in the pore structure and compact properties including strength, ductility, conductivity, magnetic permeability, and corrosion resistance.
Testing Thyroid Function

The commonly used thyroid function tests can be divided into three categories: blood tests that assess the functional status of the thyroid gland (T4, T3R, T3RIA, TSH), tests that dynamically evaluate the pituitary—thyroid axis (TRH test, cytomal suppression test), and in vivo isotopic tests (radioiodine uptake tests, thyroid scan, etc.). In addition, several adjunctive tests (thyroglobulin, antithyroid antibodies, human thyroid stimulators, free hormones, etc.) can be utilized when indicated.
The Garebeg Malud: Veneration of the Prophet as Imperial Ritual

This chapter examines the way in which the Yogyakarta Kraton celebrates one of the most important Muslim holy days, Mawlid al-Nabi, which commemorates the birth of the prophet Muhammad. The central component of the Mawlid is the recitation of texts expressing respect and love for the Prophet Muhammad and his family.
The visually responsive neuron and beyond: multisensory integration in cat and monkey.

Publisher Summary The cat superior colliculus neuron is a major site for the convergence and integration of multisensory information. It is only one of many central nervous system sites in many species where information from several modalities converges. Single cells in cat LS (lateral suprasylvian) and AES (anterior ectosylvian sulcus) and in monkey IPS (intraparietal sulcus) and STS (superior temporal sulcus) were examined. Although the spatial, temporal, and multiplicative characteristics of multisensory integration were most closely examined in cat cortex, all of the observations in monkey were consistent with those described in cat. The multisensory receptive fields of a single neuron overlapped one another in space, such that sensory stimuli that were in close spatial register fell within their excitatory receptive fields and enhanced the neuron's activity; spatially disparate stimuli produced either no interaction or depressed responses. The rules of multisensory integration evident at the level of the single neuron are also consistent with studies of intact behaving animals. The attentive and orientation responses cats make to visual and auditory stimuli were predictable based on the reactions of superior colliculus neurons to these stimuli. The data indicate that the visual responses of many neurons, whether in the superior colliculus or cortex, represent only one facet of their sensory coding capabilities.
Micromechanics of Ordered, Unidirectional Heterogeneous Materials

The pore-scale mechanics of thermal conduction and creeping flow in ordered, unidirectional heterogeneous media is considered and only exact methods which yield detailed fields are included. The effective conductivity and the effective permeability depend on the shape, orientation, and relative location of the parallel inclusions. Of particular interest is the property of anisotropy, which is absent for the frequently studied circular cylinders arranged in square or equilateral triangular arrays. The singular case of zero-thickness strip inclusions, for which all theories based on the volume fraction would fail, is also discussed.
Normal Modes of a Waveguide

Solutions of wave equations generally have some properties of orthogonality. These are very important in problems when a general solution is expanded as a sum of normal modes.
Classical and quantum operator nonlinear schrodinger equation. I

We consider generalizations of the classical nonlinear Schrodinger equation, iψt = ψxx + 2ψψ+ψ, to operator functions ψ=ψ(x,t) and their solvability via the inverse scattering method. This provides a new class of soluble field theories in one-space, one-time dimensions, which, after quantization, are equivalent to a system of many, nonidentical, particles with σ-function interactions and a spectrum of bound states richer than in the usual model.
Innovation Models, Riccati Equations, and Multiplier Analysis

Suppose that a representation in the form of (2) of Chapter 4 is adopted for time series models. The orthogonally-projected image of the state vector, given in (8) of Chapter 6, showes that the filtered estimate of the state vector evolves dynamically with the same dynamic matrix A as the original model. This vector is a vector of statistics which summarizes the information carried by the stacked data vector. Now, we show by a different reasoning that this vector is updated by exactly the same dynamics as the original model. To be explicit about the timing, and to show that the derivation is valid also for time-varying processes, we add time subscripts to the matrices Ω and R. Advance t by one unit in (8) of Chapter 6: $$Z_{t + 1} = \Omega _{t + 1} R_t ^{ - 1} y_t^ - .$$ (1)
RGBD-Sphere SLAM

This article proposes a SLAM algorithm referred to as RGBD-Sphere SLAM. The key innovation of this work is the prototypical system that demonstrates how formal models of 3D geometric shape and appearance can be transformed into generative classification models that detect and recognize these shapes. Object models are specified as shape programs in PSML; a custom-built procedural language for 3D object modeling. Classifiers for each PSML shape are created by simulating how instances of each shape manifest in real-world sensor data, e.g., color images and range images. The proposed RGBD-Sphere SLAM algorithm demonstrates a prototypical example of the system. Here, the PSML program specifies spherical 3D objects having diffuse surface albedos and distinct color appearances. A recognizer uses PSML models of each object's geometry and appearance to detect instances of these objects within streaming RGBD sensor data. The detected model parameters are then integrated into an RGBD SLAM algorithm; hence the name RGBD-Sphere SLAM. This article describes the PSML programs, the spherical detection and recognition algorithms used, and describes the impact this approach has for improving the performance of RGBD SLAM approaches by incorporating detected objects as landmarks. This is the first example of a prototypical system that externalizes the geometric and appearance modeling to a programming language from which a recognizer is created, and marks an important step towards enabling users to “program” their problem space and allow computers to transform the formal object models, as expressed in PSML, into customized classifiers suited for specific sensor suites, e.g., color imagery and depth imagery.
The Monstrous Womb

The womb wielded a constant threat during pregnancy because of its excessive lust, maternal imagination, and overactive role in gestation. Early modern medicine is full of salacious tales about pregnant women physically imprinting their children simply through the maternal imagination, which lead to fears over monstrous births. King John and The Winter’s Tale are full of remarks about potential monstrosity occurring during pregnancy, and this chapter explores how these masculine fears of the womb’s perceived contamination are proven inadequate and unnecessary in both plays. Shakespeare continuously exonerates the womb as a fertile, generative space equipped with a positively connotated influence, which in turn, critiques characters who act as a mouthpiece for contemporary medical views on the dangerous impact of the womb during pregnancy.
Competitive Assessment of the U.S. Large Civil Aircraft Aerostructures Industry

The LCA aerostructures industry is truly global, with manufacturers from all parts of the world supplying the two major remaining LCA producers, The Boeing Co. of the United States and the former Airbus Industrie, G.I.E. of France. Airbus is in the final stages of its transformation to a single corporate entity and was recently renamed 'The Airbus Company.' For the purposes of this investigation, aerostructures are structural assemblies, primarily constructed of aluminum, titanium, and composite materials, that house passengers, crew, and cargo of an LCA, dictate the aircraft attitude, and support the aircraft on the ground. The leading LCA aerostructures industries in the world in terms of volume of production and breadth of product line are in the United States and Europe. The industries in Canada and Asia are somewhat smaller. The global industry is undergoing a process of consolidation, necessitated by the trend toward increased responsibility imposed on aerostructures producers by the LCA manufacturers, and cost reduction pressures.
Implementation and 2-year outcomes of the first FDA-approved implantable apheresis vascular access device.

Background Patients requiring chronic apheresis treatments typically lack sufficient peripheral venous access to support long-term therapy. Historically, central venous tunneled catheters, septum-bearing subcutaneous ports, and fistulas were used to obtain required blood flow rates for apheresis procedures. In 2017, the US Food and Drug Administration approved the first intravascular device specifically designed for apheresis therapy, the PowerFlow Implantable Apheresis IV Port. Methods Several preimplementation meetings with key hospital stakeholders were held to determine the most efficient and safest strategy for integrating the PowerFlow device into our practice. Interventional radiologists implanted the apheresis port in patients meeting specified criteria. Performance metrics and adverse events were evaluated over a 2-year period, July 2017 through June 2019. Results Eighteen patients underwent apheresis therapy using the PowerFlow port. The most common apheresis therapy provided was extracorporeal photopheresis, followed by therapeutic plasma exchange and low-density lipoprotein apheresis. Flow rates up to 90 mL/min were obtained; the rates were limited by patient tolerance for the apheresis procedure. Complications included infection, obstruction due to fibroblastic sleeve, and migration of the vascular device. The estimated risk of PowerFlow-associated bloodstream infection in the study population was 0.18 per 1000 intravascular device days. Conclusion The PowerFlow Implantable Apheresis IV Port can achieve flow rates necessary for all apheresis therapies and is a promising alternative vascular access device for patients undergoing apheresis.
On Screen and at Arm’s Length: Social Class and the Simulation of Combat

This chapter demonstrates how simulation and games became increasingly tied to film and television works about war during the period between Suez and the Falkland War. It argues that this not only serves a newly technocratic conception of war, but also increases the distance between enlisted men and officers, and creates a means to symbolically shield officers from physical harm. In addition to showing how sports and schooling differently enculturate along class lines, this chapter surveys a wide range of moving image texts that explore a virtual conception of war. The chapter includes a comparative case study of Richard Attenborough’s Oh! What a Lovely War (1969) and Peter Watkins’s The Gladiators (1970) to demonstrate how these issues were differently represented during the period (and how they applied to both past wars and speculative conflicts).
A mystery shopper study identifying practice-level barriers to adolescent IUD access in western Pennsylvania.

Abstract Objective(s) To identify practice-level barriers that adolescents experience when seeking a hormonal intrauterine device (IUD). Study design We secret-shopped gynecological practices within a health system using a script targeting potential practice-level barriers. Results We assessed 50 of a targeted 50 practices; only 8 (16%) would schedule a contraceptive appointment that permitted same-day IUD placement. Twenty-eight (56%) respondents stated a parent must accompany the adolescent. Conclusion Practice-level barriers to adolescent IUD access exist that are inconsistent with best-practice guidelines and Pennsylvania state law. Implications Practice staff and providers need more medical and legal education regarding IUD provision to adolescents.
Small versus Statewide Parties: How Subnational Contestation and Decentralisation Influence Presidential Elections in Europe and Latin America:

Shugart and Carey were among the first scholars to recognise that there is a relationship between regional and local – or subnational – electoral forces and the presidential race. Yet because of a ...
Anomaly Detection for Science DMZs Using System Performance Data

Science DMZs are specialized networks that enable large-scale distributed scientific research, providing efficient and guaranteed performance while transferring large amounts of data at high rates. The high-speed performance of a Science DMZ is made viable via data transfer nodes (DTNs), therefore they are a critical point of failure. DTNs are usually monitored with network intrusion detection systems (NIDS). However, NIDS do not consider system performance data, such as network I/O interrupts and context switches, which can also be useful in revealing anomalous system performance potentially arising due to external network based attacks or insider attacks. In this paper, we demonstrate how system performance metrics can be applied towards securing a DTN in a Science DMZ network. Specifically, we evaluate the effectiveness of system performance data in detecting TCP-SYN flood attacks on a DTN using DBSCAN (a density-based clustering algorithm) for anomaly detection. Our results demonstrate that system interrupts and context switches can be used to successfully detect TCP-SYN floods, suggesting that system performance data could be effective in detecting a variety of attacks not easily detected through network monitoring alone.
PLK1- and PLK4-mediated asymmetric mitotic centrosome size and positioning in the early zebrafish embryo.

Factors that regulate mitotic spindle positioning have been elucidated in vitro , however it remains unclear how a spindle is placed within the confines of extremely large cells. Our studies identified a uniquely large centrosome structure in the early zebrafish embryo (246.44 ±11.93 µm² mitotic centrosome in a 126.86 ±0.35 µm diameter cell), whereas C. elegans centrosomes are notably smaller (6.75 ±0.28 µm² mitotic centrosome in a 55.83 ±1.04 µm diameter cell). During early embryonic cell divisions, cell size changes rapidly in C. elegans and zebrafish embryos. Notably, mitotic centrosome area scales closely with changing cell size compared to changes in spindle length for both organisms. One interesting difference between the two is that mitotic centrosomes are asymmetric in size across embryonic zebrafish spindles, with the larger mitotic centrosome being 2.14 ±0.13-fold larger in size than the smaller. The largest mitotic centrosome is placed towards the embryo center in a Polo-Like Kinase (PLK) 1 and PLK4 dependent manner 87.14 ±4.16% of the time. We propose a model in which uniquely large centrosomes direct spindle placement within the disproportionately large zebrafish embryo cells to orchestrate cell divisions during early embryogenesis.
Coping with recruiter stress: Hardiness, performance and well-being in US Army recruiters

Recruiting for military service can be a highly stressful job, but it is one that is essential for success in the all-volunteer force. Military recruiters face a number of job stressors, including ...
In Memoriam of Professor James F. Scott

Many researchers in ferroelectrics and their applications will be saddened to learn of the recent passing of Professor James F. Scott. Jim was well known around the world for his extensive research...
Panel Summary: Roughness

This segment reflects discussions during and after the Roughness Panel presentations. Since our assigned task was more tutorial in nature than that of other panels, we discuss here at some length aspects of the phenomena which we feel are important for fundamental research into probable mechanisms of roughness-induced transition. This difficult, sadly neglected research area is primarily experimental, although computational experiments may help to clarify some features of the mechanisms; see Section 3. There is need for improved spatial (and temporal) resolution of field sensors, which should include at least two velocity components. to identify important flow structures we need at least two-sensor measurements of space-time correlations and coherence and simultaneous (say u, w) time traces over arrays of sensors, thus extending the approaches of kendall (1981, 1985, 1987). Given the existence of long “incubation distances” (Section 5 of Morkovin’s panel contribution) which make judgment of cause and effect very difficult, such approaches are essential for deeper understanding. The recent explosion of capabilities in instrumentation and in data acquisition, processing and analysis places new insights within our reach for the first time.
Intracellular AIBP (Apolipoprotein A-I Binding Protein) Regulates Oxidized LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein)-Induced Mitophagy in Macrophages

Objective: Atherosclerotic lesions are often characterized by accumulation of OxLDL (oxidized low-density lipoprotein), which is associated with vascular inflammation and lesion vulnerability to ru...
Minimal Clinically Important Difference in Robotic-Assisted Total Knee Arthroplasty Versus Standard Manual Total Knee Arthroplasty.

Abstract Background The purpose of this study was to determine whether robotic total knee arthroplasty (R-TKA) demonstrated evidence of improvement in minimal clinically important difference (MCID) in early ( Methods A prospectively collected database was reviewed of 1160 consecutive patients undergoing R-TKA or M-TKA from December 2017 to October 2019. Primary outcomes consisted of Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score for Joint Replacement (KOOS-JR) and Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Global Health Measures of Physical Health (PH) and Mental Health (MH). Statistical analysis included MCID via the distribution method. Results Univariate analysis demonstrated conflicting results for early MCID achievement favoring M-TKA (4-week KOOS-JR, P = .03) for the multisurgeon cohort, but favored R-TKA (4-week Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System–PH, P = .04) in the single-surgeon analysis, and the remaining outcome scores were similar. Ultimately, multivariate analysis demonstrated similar 4-week and 6-month MCID achievement in all measures. Lower preoperative scores consistently achieved MCID at a higher rate in M-TKA, although in R-TKA, the higher baseline scores improved at a rate comparable with those with lower scores in all but the short-term postoperative KOOS-JR. Conclusion R-TKA demonstrated comparable MCID achievement to M-TKA across the larger cohort. Single-surgeon comparison did show some early benefit. Confounding variables such as surgical technique, implant fixation, and responsiveness of an outcome measure may be as important as simply what tools are used during surgery. Such granular data should be sought out in future studies.
C-reactive protein and clinical outcomes in patients with COVID-19.

Background A systemic inflammatory response is observed in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Elevated serum levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of systemic inflammation, are associated with severe disease in bacterial or viral infections. We aimed to explore associations between CRP concentration at initial hospital presentation and clinical outcomes in patients with COVID-19. Methods and results Consecutive adults aged ≥18 years with COVID-19 admitted to a large New York healthcare system between 1 March and 8 April 2020 were identified. Patients with measurement of CRP were included. Venous thrombo-embolism (VTE), acute kidney injury (AKI), critical illness, and in-hospital mortality were determined for all patients. Among 2782 patients hospitalized with COVID-19, 2601 (93.5%) had a CRP measurement [median 108 mg/L, interquartile range (IQR) 53-169]. CRP concentrations above the median value were associated with VTE [8.3% vs. 3.4%; adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.33, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.61-3.36], AKI (43.0% vs. 28.4%; aOR 2.11, 95% CI 1.76-2.52), critical illness (47.6% vs. 25.9%; aOR 2.83, 95% CI 2.37-3.37), and mortality (32.2% vs. 17.8%; aOR 2.59, 95% CI 2.11-3.18), compared with CRP below the median. A dose response was observed between CRP concentration and adverse outcomes. While the associations between CRP and adverse outcomes were consistent among patients with low and high D-dimer levels, patients with high D-dimer and high CRP have the greatest risk of adverse outcomes. Conclusions Systemic inflammation, as measured by CRP, is strongly associated with VTE, AKI, critical illness, and mortality in COVID-19. CRP-based approaches to risk stratification and treatment should be tested.
Atypical presentation of cholecystitis with torsion of the gallbladder diagnosed preoperatively in an unusual location

Objective:An 87-year-old attended the emergency department with sharp upper abdominal pain, radiating to back with a pain score of 10/10. On examination, severe epigastric tenderness was noted.Past...
Prone flexible cystoscopy: an adjunct to percutaneous stone removal.

AbstractPercutaneous removal of renal calculi is completed most often in the United States after initial placement of a retrograde ureteral catheter. Catheterization usually is accomplished with a rigid cystoscope with the patient in a dorsal lithotomy position, following which the patient must be turned to a prone position for percutaneous puncture and stone removal We report our experience with the use of a flexible cystoscope with the patient in a prone position for placement of a retrograde catheter. In male patients this approach was difficult secondary to urethral length and angulation. Currently, in male patients we prefer a supine approach with the flexible cystoscope. In female patients the prone approach was performed easily. Among female patients prone cystoscopy for retrograde ureteral catheterization resulted in decreased operating room time, less manipulation of the anesthetized patient and creation of a 2-tiered field to maintain the sterility of the retrograde ureteral catheter. We found t...
Angiogenic Factors Stimulate Mast-Cell Migration

Mast cells accumulate at sites of angiogenesis. The factor(s) that control mast-cell recruitment at these sites have yet to be defined. We sought to determine if angiogenic factors result in mast-cell chemotaxis. In this study, we observed that platelet-derived growth factor-AB (PDGF-AB), vascular endothelial cell growth factor (VEGF), and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) each cause directed migration of murine mast cells at picomolar concentrations, with a typical bell-shaped dose-response curve. Another potent angiogenic factor, platelet-derived endothelial cell growth factor (PD-ECGF), appears to promote chemokinesis of mast cells, whereas tumor necrosis factor-alpha, a weak angiogenic factor, is less robust but still functions as a mast cell chemotactic factor. Epidermal growth factor (EGF), a growth factor with minimal angiogenic properties, was ineffective as a mast cell chemotactic factor. A checkerboard analysis confirmed the directional chemotactic response of PDGF-AB, VEGF, and bFGF, while indicating the chemokinetic response induced by PD-ECGF. Cross-desensitization of growth-factor-induced directed migration was observed between PDGF-AB and bFGF, and also between PDGF-AB and PD-ECGF. Tyrosine kinase-inhibitor genistein effectively dampened the chemotactic responses, whereas pertussis toxin had no effect. In summary, our findings suggest that factors known to act on endothelial cells and stimulate neovascularization may simultaneously serve to recruit mast cells to these sites. The local accumulation of mast cells is believed to facilitate new vessel formation through complex cell:cell interactions.
Reversing Field: A Ukraine-Russia Relationship America Can Love

Relations with Ukraine need not involve a zero-sum game between the United States and Russia. What the U.S. and West European governments need to learn from the latest election is that Ukrainians simply do not wish to join the West at the expense of a good relationship with Russia, and that such a posture is entirely consistent with both democratic politics and Ukrainian sovereignty.
Robotics in Early Undergraduate Education.

Introduction to Mobile Robot Programming is a new projectbased course taught at Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar to undergraduates early in the curriculum. We describe the course details and relate our experiences and observations. We believe that this course is a valuable introductory computer science course; however, its success requires a significant time commitment from the instructors. The value lies in this course’s ability to add breadth and computational thinking skills that will aid the students as they progress.
SimplePipe: a simulation tool for task allocation and design of processor pipelines with application to network processors

SimplePipe is a simulation framework/tool based on SimpleScalar (Austin, T. et al., IEEE Computer, 2002; http://www.simplescalar.com). SimplePipe analyzes the performance effects of alternative task allocations in systems of multiple pipelines where pipeline stages are either processors or dedicated hardware functions. Tasks are defined in terms of sequences of separate C program executions with each sequence representing the functional requirements of a flow. Performance effects associated with alternative assignment of shared memory modules to the pipeline stage can also be explored. SimplePipe was motivated by the performance requirements of network processors (NPs) that are configurable into multiple processor pipelines. The assignment of communication flow tasks to pipeline stages, selection of the number of stages, determination of processor cache sizes and the assignment of shared memory modules are important design decisions impacting performance. An assignment study illustrating SimplePipe capabilities is presented.