cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pore Systems of the B-Chalk Zone in the Niobrara Formation, Denver-Julesburg Basin, Colorado

Summary Horizontal drilling and artificial stimulation have made the Cretaceous Niobrara Formation, Denver-Julesburg Basin, a prolific, self-sourced, unconventional reservoir that yields both gas and liquids. As a carbonate-dominated reservoir, pore networks documented in most other unconventional shale reservoirs are not necessarily analogous. In this study pore system characterization was achieved using focused ion-beam scanning electron microscopy (FIBSEM) and Avizo Fire image segmenting software. We focused on samples from the B chalk, which is the primary landing zone for horizontal wells in the Niobrara. Material was examined from four cores representing thermal maturities ranging from the oil window (Ro≈0.7, GOR ≈ 1,000) to the dry-gas window (Ro≈1.2, GOR >20,000). At the microfacies scale, samples consisted of chalks, marly chalks, chalky marls, and submillimeter laminations of marl in the chalk. Electron microprobe elemental mapping shows that organic macerals are concentrated in the marl interlaminations whereas finely disseminated organic matter is in peloids (particularly those that are black in thin section). Intercrystalline pores dominate all samples and occur primarily between fragments of coccolith debris and recrystallized calcite, and to a lesser degree between clay minerals. Median equivalent circular diameters of intercrystalline pores range from ~100 to 400 nm. Total image porosity averages 3.9% with a range of 1.4% to 10%. Highest porosity is in peloids within marly chalks. Residual hydrocarbon fills many former intercrystalline pores and organic macerals occur in marl lamina. In most cases, residual hydrocarbon-filled pores exceed the amount of open pores, and those filled pores have median equivalent diameters than range from 300 to 900 nm. Organic material exhibits intraparticle “bubble” pores with the abundance of bubble porosity in organics showing no increase with thermal maturity above ~0.7 Ro. The size of hydrocarbon-filled pores is greatest in the most thermally mature well, and greater than the size of open intercrystalline pores in all wells. This suggests pores that were not filled by organic matter underwent continued reduction due to diagenesis after hydrocarbon migration.
p47 GTPases regulate Toxoplasma gondii survival in activated macrophages.

The cytokine gamma interferon (IFN-γ) is critical for resistance to Toxoplasma gondii. IFN-γ strongly activates macrophages and nonphagocytic host cells to limit intracellular growth of T. gondii; however, the cellular factors that are required for this effect are largely unknown. We have shown previously that IGTP and LRG-47, members of the IFN-γ-regulated family of p47 GTPases, are required for resistance to acute T. gondii infections in vivo. In contrast, IRG-47, another member of this family, is not required. In the present work, we addressed whether these GTPases are required for IFN-γ-induced suppression of T. gondii growth in macrophages in vitro. Bone marrow macrophages that lacked IGTP or LRG-47 displayed greatly attenuated IFN-γ-induced inhibition of T. gondii growth, while macrophages that lacked IRG-47 displayed normal inhibition. Thus, the ability of the p47 GTPases to limit acute infection in vivo correlated with their ability to suppress intracellular growth in macrophages in vitro. Using confocal microscopy and sucrose density fractionation, we demonstrated that IGTP largely colocalizes with endoplasmic reticulum markers, while LRG-47 was mainly restricted to the Golgi. Although both IGTP and LRG-47 localized to vacuoles containing latex beads, neither protein localized to vacuoles containing live T. gondii. These results suggest that IGTP and LRG-47 are able to regulate host resistance to acute T. gondii infections through their ability to inhibit parasite growth within the macrophage.
Next-generation phenotyping of electronic health records

The national adoption of electronic health records (EHR) promises to make an unprecedented amount of data available for clinical research, but the data are complex, inaccurate, and frequently missing, and the record reflects complex processes aside from the patient's physiological state. We believe that the path forward requires studying the EHR as an object of interest in itself, and that new models, learning from data, and collaboration will lead to efficient use of the valuable information currently locked in health records.
Image of a gaseous discharge in microgravity

The electrode gap length of a gaseous discharge in a low-pressure 1 g environment is compared with its length in a low-pressure microgravity environment for pressures ranging from 30 kPa to atmospheric pressure. The maximum gap length obtained is measured for both conditions using three separate gases. Video images of the discharge in microgravity make apparent both the lack of gravity-induced convection, which gives rise to the arching of the 1 g discharge, and the increase in gap length.
The expanding superfamily of phospholipase A(2) enzymes: classification and characterization.

The phospholipase A2 (PLA2) superfamily consists of a broad range of enzymes defined by their ability to catalyze the hydrolysis of the middle (sn-2) ester bond of substrate phospholipids. The hydrolysis products of this reaction, free fatty acid and lysophospholipid, have many important downstream roles, and are derived from the activity of a diverse and growing superfamily of PLA2 enzymes. This review updates the classification of the various PLA2’s now described in the literature. Four criteria have been employed to classify these proteins into one of the 11 Groups (I^XI) of PLA2’s. First, the enzyme must catalyze the hydrolysis of the sn-2 ester bond of a natural phospholipid substrate, such as long fatty acid chain phospholipids, platelet activating factor, or short fatty acid chain oxidized phospholipids. Second, the complete amino acid sequence of the mature protein must be known. Third, each PLA2 Group should include all of those enzymes that have readily identifiable sequence homology. If more than one homologous PLA2 gene exists within a species, then each paralog should be assigned a Subgroup letter, as in the case of Groups IVA, IVB, and IVC PLA2. Homologs from different species should be classified within the same Subgroup wherever such assignments are possible as is the case with zebra fish and human Group IVA PLA2 orthologs. The current classification scheme does allow for historical exceptions of the highly homologous Groups I, II, V, and X PLA2’s. Fourth, catalytically active splice variants of the same gene are classified as the same Group and Subgroup, but distinguished using Arabic numbers, such as for Group VIA-1 PLA2 and VIA-2 PLA2’s. These four criteria have led to the expansion or realignment of Groups VI, VII and VIII, as well as the addition of Group XI PLA2 from plants. fl 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
Purification, Characterization, and Molecular Analysis of Thermostable Cellulases CelA and CelB from Thermotoga neapolitana†

Two thermostable endocellulases, CelA and CelB, were purified from Thermotoga neapolitana. CelA (molecular mass, 29 kDa; pI 4.6) is optimally active at pH 6.0 at 95°C, while CelB (molecular mass, 30 kDa; pI 4.1) has a broader optimal pH range (pH 6.0 to 6.6) at 106°C. Both enzymes are characterized by a high level of activity (high Vmax value and low apparent Km value) with carboxymethyl cellulose; the specific activities of CelA and CelB are 1,219 and 1,536 U/mg, respectively. With p-nitrophenyl cellobioside the Vmax values of CelA and CelB are 69.2 and 18.4 U/mg, respectively, while the Km values are 0.97 and 0.3 mM, respectively. The major end products of cellulose hydrolysis, glucose and cellobiose, competitively inhibit CelA, and CelB. The Ki values for CelA are 0.44 M for glucose and 2.5 mM for cellobiose; the Ki values for CelB are 0.2 M for glucose and 1.16 mM for cellobiose. CelB preferentially cleaves larger cellooligomers, producing cellobiose as the end product; it also exhibits significant transglycosylation activity. This enzyme is highly thermostable and has halflives of 130 min at 106°C and 26 min at 110°C. A single clone encoding the celA and celB genes was identified by screening a T. neapolitana genomic library in Escherichia coli. The celA gene encodes a 257-amino-acid protein, while celB encodes a 274-amino-acid protein. Both proteins belong to family 12 of the glycosyl hydrolases, and the two proteins are 60% similar to each other. Northern blots of T. neapolitana mRNA revealed that celA and celB are monocistronic messages, and both genes are inducible by cellobiose and are repressed by glucose.
SSX MHD plasma wind tunnel

A new turbulent plasma source at the Swarthmore Spheromak Experiment (SSX) facility is described. The MHD wind tunnel configuration employs a magnetized plasma gun to inject high-beta plasma into a large, well-instrumented, vacuum drift region. This provides unique laboratory conditions approaching that in the solar wind: there is no applied background magnetic field in the drift region and has no net axial magnetic flux; the plasma flow speed is on the order of the local sound speed (M ~ 1), so flow energy density is comparable to thermal energy density; and the ratio of thermal to magnetic pressure is of order unity (plasma β ~ 1) so thermal energy density is also comparable to magnetic energy density. Results presented here and referenced within demonstrate the new capabilities and show how the new platform is proving useful for fundamental plasma turbulence studies.
A method to automate user interface testing using variable finite state machines

A method has been developed that allows automating a portion of interface testing. A core component of this method is a simple, yet flexible way to specify a formal model of a user interface, named variable finite state machines (VFSM). The model can be converted into an equivalent finite state machine, from which tests can be generated. The method has been applied to the user interface of Navigator II, a wearable computer system employed by aircraft repair personnel. A VFSM model of the interface was constructed and used to generate 5,968 tests, each composed of an input sequence and its corresponding expected output sequence. The tests were then applied to an instrumented form of the interface, and the results were compared to the expected output. From the data collected, three error sources were detected in the original interface that had escaped months of previous debugging efforts and field usage.
Fast wavelength-swept fiber laser using electro-optic polarization controller

Fast wavelength-swept fiber laser is experimentally demonstrated using electro-optic waveguide polarization controller. Intra-cavity fiber Sagnac loop and saturable absorber filter are used to achieve fast and continuous sweeping of the single-wavelength fiber laser.
Microfabricated Polysilicon Microneedles for Minimally Invasive Biomedical Devices

A two-wafer polysilicon micromolding process has been developed for the fabrication of hollow tubes useful for microfluidic applications. These small tubes can be fabricated with a pointed end, resulting in a micro hypodermic injection needle. Microneedles are desired because they reduce both insertion pain and tissue damage in the patient. Such microneedles may be used for low flow rate, continuous drug delivery, such as the continuous delivery of insulin to a diabetic patient. The needles would be integrated into a short term drug delivery device capable of delivering therapeutics intradermally for about 24 hours. In addition, microneedles can be used for sample collection for biological analysis, delivery of cell or cellular extract based vaccines, and sample handling providing interconnection between the microscopic and macroscopic world. The strength of microneedles was examined analytically, experimentally and by finite element analysis. Metal coatings provide significant increases in the achievable bending moments before failure in the needles. For example, a 10 lm platinum coating increased the median bending moment of a 160 lm wide, 110 lm high microneedle with a 20 lm wall from 0.25 to 0.43 mNm. In addition, fluid flow in microneedles was studied experimentally. Microneedles 192 lm wide, 110 lm high and 7 mm long have flow rates of 0.7 ml/sec under a 138 kPa inlet pressure. This flow capacity exceeds previous microneedle capacities by an order of magnitude.
An Assessment of the Factors Affecting the Credit Quality of Private Power Developers

The trend toward privatization in the electric power industry both domestically and globally has lead to the emergence of private power project developing as a powerful industry. The evaluation of the credit strength of developers is difficult given the uncertainty in how markets will develop and how deregulation will play out. This paper discusses the regulatory environment that has led to the emergence of this industry, along with the typical capital structure of these firms. The factors that go into rating firms in the industry as presented by Standard & Poor's are then examined for any relationships between these factors and default probability. Lastly, a theoretical framework for assessing the benefits of portfolio diversification given various levels of leverage and risk in the assets is presented.
Pressures of the Season An Examination of Classroom Quality and High-Stakes Accountability

High-stakes tests are the most heavily weighted measures in accountability systems developed in response to No Child Left Behind. While some studies show high-stakes accountability being related to test score gains, others suggest these policies do not improve achievement and often result in unintended consequences. To understand mechanisms driving positive and negative effects on student learning, it is necessary to look beyond achievement data and step inside classrooms. We present findings from 2 years of observation in 23 second and third grade classrooms, capitalizing on the combination of grade levels and seasons during which we observed. On the theoretically important domain of instructional support, we find classroom quality is lower when classrooms are under greatest pressure to increase test performance.
Independence: The Fall Of Andersen And The Rise Of Sarbanes Oxley

In this study, the author examines the audit firms’ fees associated with audit services and audit-related services as a percentage of total fees charged to individual firms as reported to the SEC. This study was motivated by discussion of the impacts on audit opinions of the amount of work beyond an audit for which an auditing firm contracts. The results indicate that the fees that Arthur Andersen charged its individual clients indeed had a lower percentage of total fees associated with audit work. Further, for the year 2002, on average, firms reported a higher percentage of fees from auditors were associated with audit work. Firms that previously contracted with Arthur Andersen contracted significantly less non-audit services than their counterparts.
Cellular and molecular mechanisms of aging

Major topics addressed in this review on cellular and molecular mechanisms of aging are; 1) evolution of aging; 2) life-prolonging effects of caloric restriction; 3) long-lived mutants; 4) cellular senescence and organismal aging; 5) senescent phenotype in cultured cells is dominant; 6) causes of cellular aging
Scaling Detailed High-Resolution Data Split Performance Measures to Statewide System Level Management

Recent advancements in high-resolution signal controller data logging and acquisition technologies have enabled development of fundamental performance measures that are effective at identifying split failures and rebalancing green times. However, from a system operator perspective it is important to scale these metrics system-wide for monitoring, triaging, and decision-making uses. This paper articulates the questions that concern a typical system operator, and the associated performance measures and tools that can be used to actively manage such systems macroscopically. To illustrate this methodology, the paper examines 70 signals across seven corridors over a six-month period. Approximately three billion high-resolution signal events including 217 million phase occurrences are analyzed, with 126 million of those phases occurring during the 0600–1900 time period. This paper proposes a scalable method to identify phase occurrences with insufficient green. Applying a previously-developed split failure performance measure for this purpose, over 106,000 split failures (0.08% percent) of the phase occurrences are estimated to have failures for the time of day period. These are displayed using a graphical visualization the authors called the Purdue Split Failure Ticker (PSFT). Subsequent sections of the paper recommend Pareto ranking, drill-down analysis by movement and hour, and corridor movement split summaries to identify where to prioritize resources for signal re-timing activities and geometric improvements.
Phase sensitive signal analysis for bi-tapered optical fibers

Our study examines the transmission characteristics of bi-tapered optical fibers, i.e. fibers that have a tapered down and up span with a waist length separating them. The applications to aqueous and vapor phase biomolecular sensing demand high sensitivity. A bi-tapered optical fiber platform is suited for label-free biomolecular detection and can be optimized by modification of the length, diameter and surface properties of the tapered region. We have developed a phase sensitive method based on interference of two or more modes of the fiber and we demonstrate that our fiber sensitivity is of order 10-4 refractive index units. Higher sensitivity can be achieved, as needed, by enhancing the fiber design characteristics.
Teaching Notes; The Bear Claw Drywall Clips: Taking A New Product To Market

The Bear Claw case study was published in the Journal of Business Case Studies (September/October 2011 issue, Volume 7, Number 5). The case study has been used in marketing and entrepreneurship classes at several universities. Based on feedback from these classes and comments from individual reviewers, these notes were developed to support the teaching of the case. The Bear Claw drywall repair clips provide a unique and effective method for repairing damaged drywall. The product received positive trade and press feedback. However, the Bear Claw has yet to achieve the commercial success expected. After working through the case discussion questions, students should be able to identify missteps made in the past in commercializing the product and suggest potential strategic directions for the future of the Bear Claw
Political Accountability and Spaces of Contestation

The concept of accountability is defined based on a technical apparatus of rules. The prevailing conception, as described by Dubnick and Frederickson, focuses on control and consequence. They divide the concept into pre factum and post factum arenas, the former encompassing rules of control and the latter, consequences for the violation of rules. This two-dimensional view of accountability neglects the moment of decision and action, which might be referred to as the per factum dimension. Introducing this added dimension to accountability highlights the political quality of the concept by drawing attention to practices and opportunities for contestation.
Activation of cells using femtosecond laser beam(Conference Presentation)

Study of communication in cellular systems requires precise activation of targeted cell(s) in the network. In contrast to chemical, electrical, thermal, mechanical stimulation, optical stimulation is non-invasive and is better suited for stimulation of targeted cells. As compared to visible lasers, the near infrared (NIR) microsecond/nanosecond pulsed laser beams are being used as preferred stimulation tool as they provide higher penetration depth in tissues. Femotosecond (FS) laser beams in NIR are also being used for direct and indirect (i.e. via two-photon optogenetics) stimulation of cells. Here, we present a comparative evaluation of efficacy of NIR FS laser beam for direct (no optogenetic sensitization) and 2ph optogenetic stimulation of cells. Further, for the first time, we demonstrate the use of blue (~450 nm, obtained by second harmonic generation) FS laser beam for stimulation of cells with and without Channelrhodopisn-2 (ChR2) expression. Comparative analysis of photocurrent generated by blue FS laser beam and continuous wave blue light for optogenetics stimulation of ChR2 transfected HEK cells will be presented. The use of ultrafast laser micro-beam for focal, non-contact, and repeated stimulation of single cells in a cellular circuitry allowed us to study the communication between different cell types.
The management of fluid and electrolyte disorders in the neonate.

Parenteral fluid administration in the neonate is best approached from a thorough understanding of the normal physiology of water and electrolytes and the pathophysiology of the specific disease entity involved. Specific recommendations for fluid therapy are offered.
Introduction: Human Behavior and Holocene Ecology

For over 10,000 years, human populations have occupied the dynamic, ecologically diverse landscapes of northeastern North America. Throughout the course of the Holocene period, prehistoric and historic communities have each exhibited a wide array of behavioral, social, and technological adaptations in response to a diversity of environmental and social settings. The greater part of this period was dominated by various gathering-hunting-fishing strategies, and it was apparently only in the last 1,000 years that horticulture had a significant impact on prehistoric economy. By the sixteenth century, aboriginal lifeways were being regularly impacted by the early Basque fisheries; increasing contact with European colonists led initially to changes in land use in response to the fur trade, but quickly resulted in the decimation of local native populations by a series of plagues, wars, and other adverse circumstances. The historic settlement of the region was until recently agriculturally based, with broader patterns of land use focused on coastal resources, the waterways of the interior, and the timber industries. By the mid-nineteenth century, segments of the landscape were being rapidly industrialized. The Holocene period in the Northeast is thus a period of significant social transformation, favorable and unfavorable historical circumstances, and environmental variability.
Studying the PEV market in california: Comparing the PEV, PHEV and hybrid markets

Who is buying electric vehicles? Who is buying new cars in general? Is the first group a subset of the second? What are the similarities and differences of the two groups? Can we use hybrid buyers to predict the future plug-in electric vehicle (PEV) market? This study explores the characteristics of new car buyer households who purchased a new vehicle in California during 2011-2012 comparing three main populations: internal combustion engine (ICE) buyers, hybrid buyers and PEV buyers. We show that PEV households have different socio-demographic characteristics than ICE buyers with, for example, higher income, higher education, and more new cars while hybrid owners are a middle group with characteristics that fall between those of ICE and PEV owners. We also found differences among PEV buyers. Pure battery electric vehicle (BEV) and plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) households have similar sociodemographic characteristics but they are differentiated by driving characteristics and home location. The PEV market today is based on small number of buyers and small number of potential new car buyers. Targeting the potential car buyers can more rapidly increase the market, create a used market and will open PEV options to larger segments of the population.
Disaggregation of Cause-Specific Cardiovascular Disease Mortality Among Hispanic Subgroups.

Importance Hispanics are the largest minority group in the United States and face a disproportionate burden of risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and low socioeconomic position. However, Hispanics paradoxically experience lower all-cause mortality rates compared with their non-Hispanic white (NHW) counterparts. This phenomenon has been largely observed in Mexicans, and whether this holds true for other Hispanic subgroups or whether these favorable trends persist over time remains unknown. Objective To disaggregate a decade of national CVD mortality data for the 3 largest US Hispanic subgroups. Design, Setting, and Participants Deaths from CVD for the 3 largest US Hispanic subgroups—Mexicans, Puerto Ricans, and Cubans—compared with NHWs were extracted from the US National Center for Health Statistics mortality records using the underlying cause of death based on coding from theInternational Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, Tenth Revision(I00-II69). Mortality data were evaluated from January 1, 2003, to December 31, 2012. Population estimates were calculated using linear interpolation from the 2000 and 2010 US Census reports. Data were analyzed from November 2015 to July 2016. Main Outcomes and Measures Mortality due to CVD. Results Participants included 688 074 Mexican, 163 335 Puerto Rican, 130 397 Cuban, and 19 357 160 NHW individuals (49.0% men and 51.0% women; mean [SD] age, 75 [15] years). At the time of CVD death, Mexicans (age, 67 [18] years) and Puerto Ricans (age, 68 [17] years) were younger compared with NHWs (age, 76 [15] years). Mortality rates due to CVD decreased from a mean of 414.2 per 100 000 in 2003 to 303.3 per 100 000 in 2012. Estimated decreases in mortality rate for CVD from 2003 to 2012 ranged from 85 per 100 000 for all Hispanic women to 144 per 100 000 for Cuban men, but rate differences between groups vary substantially, with Puerto Ricans exhibiting similar mortality patterns to NHWs, and Mexicans experiencing lower mortality. Puerto Ricans experienced higher mortality rates for ischemic and hypertensive heart disease compared with other subgroups, whereas Mexicans experienced higher rates of cerebrovascular disease deaths. Conclusions and Relevance Significant differences in CVD mortality rates and changes over time were found among the 3 largest Hispanic subgroups in the United States. Findings suggest that the current aggregate classification of Hispanics masks heterogeneity in CVD mortality reporting, leading to an incomplete understanding of health risks and outcomes in this population.
Contra Davidson on Counterfeiting, Round Two

Libertarians and non libertarians alike agree that counterfeiting legitimate money owned by innocent people is illicit. But what about counterfeiting counterfeit money owned by the guiltless? Davidson and I, both libertarians, take the position that this would be a rights violation; that this would violate the rights of innocent owners of currency, who would be victimized by such fraudulent behavior of counterfeiters, even those who limit themselves to counterfeiting counterfeit funds. But what about counterfeiting counterfeit money owned by those who are guilty of crimes? Davidson (2013) opines, in effect, that there are no such people. The counterfeiter of counterfeit money is thus himself a criminal, she avers. I argue, very much to the contrary, that the relevant population consists mostly of guilty people, and thus they are not in a logical position to object to what would otherwise be considered victimization. As for the few innocents among them, they demonstrate their innocence to a large degree by not objecting to the counterfeiting of counterfeit money. If they do object, and take actions to prevent this practice, they act in a manner incompatible with the libertarian non aggression principle (NAP) and thus enter the ranks of the guilty. I find Davidson’s (2013) economic analysis impeccable; her understanding of libertarianism highly problematic. In the interests of full disclosure, I should make it clear that the present paper contains the radical suggestion that we should do away with our established monetary- and financial system. If need be, and this is by no means my first choice, we are entitled to do so by means of massive counterfeiting of established currencies (which is justified by deontological considerations and libertarian principles). Of course, this is illegal in extant nations, and I would not want to be imprisoned for committing a crime. So, for purposes of our discussion, we will be considering only the imaginary country of Ruritania.
Adventitious shoot regeneration from in vitro leaf explants of Fraxinus nigra

Black ash (Fraxinus nigra) is an endangered hardwood tree species under threat of extirpation by the emerald ash borer (EAB), an aggressive exotic phloem-feeding beetle. We have developed an efficient regeneration system through adventitious shoot organogenesis in F. nigra using in vitro-derived leaf explants. Two types of leaf explants were cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with different concentrations of plant growth regulators to induce callus and adventitious shoot bud formation. Significant effects of explant, and plant growth regulator interactions were found. The frequency of callus formation ranged from 77.8 to 94.4% and 88.9–100% from single leaflets and intact compound leaves, respectively, with no significant difference between treatments. For adventitious shoot bud induction, however, 22.2 µM 6-benzylaminopurine (BA) combined with 31.8 µM thidiazuron (TDZ) was the best treatment regardless of the initial leaf explant type, showing 21.1 and 28.8% shoot bud induction, with 1.5 and 1.9 adventitious shoots per explant, from single leaflets and intact compound leaves, respectively. The regenerated shoot buds were elongated on MS medium supplemented with Gamborg B5 vitamins plus 2 mg L−1 glycine (MSB5G), 13.3 µM BA, 1 µM indole-3-butyric acid (IBA), and 0.29 µM gibberellic acid. The elongated shoots were continuously micropropagated through nodal stem sectioning until used for rooting. An average of 85.2% of the microshoots were successfully rooted in woody plant medium containing 5.7 µM indole-3-acetic acid plus 4.9 µM IBA with a 10-day initial dark culture, followed by culture under a 16-h photoperiod. Rooted plantlets were acclimatized to the greenhouse and showed normal plant growth and development with 100% survival. This regeneration protocol would be useful for mass propagation for conservation of F. nigra and for use in genetic transformation for EAB resistance.
Anti-concentration Inequalities for Polynomials

In this short survey, we discuss the notion of anti-concentration and describe various ideas used to obtain anti-concentration inequalities, together with several open questions.
Strategy of mechanical ventilation for acute respiratory distress syndrome

In this article lung protective strategy using low tidal volume and low plateau pressure is discussed based on the Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Network protocol. The ARDS Network study, which reported a lower mortality with a tidal volume target 6 ml x kg-1 of predicted body weight, remains the only study to show that mechanical ventilation strategy improves outcome in patients with acute lung injury/acute respiratory distress syndrome. To liberate patients from mechanical ventilation in timely manner, daily assessment with spontaneous breathing trial is essential. Using weaning predictors or gradual withdrawal with SIMV mode prolongs the duration of weaning, and is not recommended.
Obesity, insulin resistance pathway factors, and colon cancer

Obesity, central adiposity in particular, is considered a “probable” cause for colon and many other cancers. Insulin resistance resulting from long-term energy imbalance is believed to be one of the key mechanisms underpinning the obesity–colon cancer link. This chapter synthesizes existing evidence that supports this hypothesis and discusses molecular pathways through which adipose tissue dysfunction in the state of obesity and insulin resistance may promote colon carcinogenesis. From a public health perspective, lifestyle and behavioral modification to maintain energy balance is clearly the most effective measure to reduce the burden of obesity and colon cancer. Elucidation of the molecular/genetic pathways underlying the connection between obesity-associated insulin resistance and colon cancer may lead to the identification of novel targets upon which interventions can be developed to disrupt the causal link between obesity and colon carcinogenesis.
Mutators, antimutators, and DNA replication errors: a summary and perspective.

Since the discovery of Escherichia coli DNA polymerase in the late 1950s, numerous papers have been written on the role of this enzyme and of several related enzymes in assuring that the nucleotide sequence of the parental DNA is transmitted with the high degree of fidelity to the progeny DNA as is seen during normal replication. The simplest view is that the nucleotide sequence of the daughter strand is determined uniquely by the complementary sequence in the parental or template strand according to the rules laid down by Chargaff and conceptualized by Watson and Crick. The polymerase molecule merely catalyzes the condensation of deoxynucleoside triphosphates according to the predetermined sequence in the template and, itself, does not contribute significantly to the accuracy of replication. This view had to be reevaluated in the light of the experiments of Speyer and of Drake, who showed, respectively, that various mutants in the DNA polymerase gene of phage T4 have markedly increased or decreased spontaneous mutation rates. It was these genetic experiments which focused the attention of enzymologists on the mechanism of action of DNA polymerases.
Percutaneous endoscopic laser lithotripsy of retained stones in the left hepatic duct. The role of the surgeon.

A 35-year-old woman with a retained stone in a branch of the left hepatic duct was referred to us. The stone was discovered on the postoperative T-tube cholangiogram. A flexible ureteroscope was introduced into the duct, under fluoroscopic and direct endoscopic vision and the pulsed dye laser was used successfully to disintegrate the calculus. The postoperative course was uneventful. We suggest that in certain selected cases, the pulsed dye laser might be useful in disintegrating stones sited in difficult positions.
SP0123 Why is the prevalence of knee osteoarthritis increasing

Invited speaker abstract submission EULAR18-7734 WHY IS THE PREVALENCE OF KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS INCREASING? D. Felson I will give my lecture on: Friday, 15 June 2018 Disclosure of Interest None declared Populations throughout the world are ageing and with ageing comes in increase in knee osteoarthritis. The prevalence of obesity is also rising and this further contributes to an increased risk of disease. Not surprisingly, the demand for knee replacements is rising quickly and is projected to increase further. While the increase in osteoarthritis may be due in part to ageing and obesity of the population, there may be other causes. In a recent study, cadavers whose age and weight at the time of death were known were examined for evidence of knee osteoarthritis. It was found that, after adjustment for age and weight, knee osteoarthritis in our current postindustrial era was twice as common as knee osteoarthritis in the early industrial era. Reasons for this increase include changes in diet or in physical activity. They might also include changes in effects or severity of obesity. Understanding the increase in prevalence might provide new clues to osteoarthritis prevention. Disclosure of Interest None declared
Pre-Revolutionary Russian Photography at the New York Public Library: An Introduction

This article is an introduction to the New York Public Library’s pre-revolutionary Russian and Eastern European photographic albums. It also provides a checklist of these albums. The checklist is a...
Interpreting Rural Students’ Stories of Access to a Flagship University

Access has been an ongoing issue for rural students. In this study, I examined factors that have been proven barriers and supports for rural students. Rural college students who were part of the TRiO program at a flagship university shared barriers and supports to access higher education. Students talked about their college journeys by telling digital stories, using computer-based tools to create narratives. On-campus resources, family support, finding a place to belong in college, and self-efficacy proved to be important access and persistence factors for students.
New measurement of the E α lab = 0.83 MeV resonance in Ne 22 ( α , γ ) Mg 26

The ${E}_{\ensuremath{\alpha}}^{\text{lab}}=0.83$ MeV resonance in the $^{22}\mathrm{Ne}(\ensuremath{\alpha},\ensuremath{\gamma})^{26}\mathrm{Mg}$ reaction strongly impacts the reaction rates in the stellar temperature region crucial for the astrophysical s process. We report on a new measurement of the energy and strength of this resonance using techniques different from previous investigations. We use a blister-resistant $^{22}\mathrm{Ne}$-implanted target and employ $\ensuremath{\gamma}\ensuremath{\gamma}$-coincidence detection techniques. We find values for the resonance energy and strength of ${E}_{\ensuremath{\alpha}}^{\text{lab}}=835.2\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}3.0$ keV and $\ensuremath{\omega}\ensuremath{\gamma}=(4.6\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}1.2)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}5}$ eV, respectively. Our mean values are higher compared to previous values, although the results overlap within uncertainties. The uncertainty in the resonance energy has been significantly reduced. The spin-parity assignment, based on the present and previous work, is ${J}^{\ensuremath{\pi}}=$ (${0}^{+}$, ${1}^{\ensuremath{-}}$, ${2}^{+}$, ${3}^{\ensuremath{-}}$).
Quantifying spatiotemporal variability and noise in absolute microbiota abundances using replicate sampling.

Metagenomic sequencing has enabled detailed investigation of diverse microbial communities, but understanding their spatiotemporal variability remains an important challenge. Here, we present decomposition of variance using replicate sampling (DIVERS), a method based on replicate sampling and spike-in sequencing. The method quantifies the contributions of temporal dynamics, spatial sampling variability, and technical noise to the variances and covariances of absolute bacterial abundances. We applied DIVERS to investigate a high-resolution time series of the human gut microbiome and a spatial survey of a soil bacterial community in Manhattan’s Central Park. Our analysis showed that in the gut, technical noise dominated the abundance variability for nearly half of the detected taxa. DIVERS also revealed substantial spatial heterogeneity of gut microbiota, and high temporal covariances of taxa within the Bacteroidetes phylum. In the soil community, spatial variability primarily contributed to abundance fluctuations at short time scales (weeks), while temporal variability dominated at longer time scales (several months). DIVERS uses replicate sampling and spike-in sequencing to distinguish temporal and spatial variations from noise in microbial samples.
Mathematical Programming: Linear, Integer, and Nonlinear Optimization in Military Decision-Making

Recall the Emergency Service Coordinator (ESC) for a military base is interested in locating the base’s three ambulances to maximize the residents that can be reached within 8 min in emergency situations. The base is divided into six zones and the average time required to travel from one region to the next under semi-perfect conditions are summarized in the following Table 4.1. This is equivalent to the military placing evacuation hospitals in certain locations.
Overuse of venous thromboembolism prophylaxis among hospitalized patients with liver disease.

INTRODUCTION Patients with liver disease are at risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE); however, little is understood regarding the safety and efficacy of VTE prophylaxis in patients with cirrhosis. We examined the application of a VTE risk assessment model in VTE prophylaxis decision-making in a closed cohort of hospitalized patients with liver disease. METHODS Sequential patients admitted to an inpatient hepatology service at a tertiary care center were evaluated for need for VTE prophylaxis. Risk assessment by IMPROVE was compared with current practice patterns of VTE prophylaxis. Rates of bleeding and clotting events were noted. RESULTS 98 patient encounters were included in our analysis. 76% of patients received VTE prophylaxis in practice. IMPROVE recommended use of VTE prophylaxis in 19% of patients. Patients who received VTE prophylaxis that was not warranted had significantly lower risk of clotting compared with patients in whom VTE prophylaxis was warranted per IMPROVE. CONCLUSIONS Application of IMPROVE risk assessment would significantly reduce VTE prophylaxis use among hospitalized patients with liver disease. Our findings challenge the "one-size-fits-all" current practice pattern of VTE prophylaxis. Future studies are needed in large cohorts of hospitalized patients with liver disease that include clinical outcomes of bleeding and clotting risk.
Movement of small RNAs in and between plants and fungi.

RNA interference is a biological process whereby small RNAs inhibit gene expression through neutralizing targeted mRNA molecules. This process is conserved in eukaryotes. Here, recent work regarding the mechanisms of how small RNAs move within and between organisms is examined. Small RNAs can move locally and systemically in plants through plasmodesmata and phloem, respectively. In fungi, transportation of small RNAs may also be achieved by septal pores and vesicles. Recent evidence also supports bidirectional cross-kingdom communication of small RNAs between host plants and adapted fungal pathogens to affect the outcome of infection. We discuss several mechanisms for small RNA trafficking and describe evidence for transport through naked form, combined with RNA-binding proteins or enclosed by vesicles.
Correlation analysis between relocation stress, family function and coping strategy in parents of children transferred from Intensive Care Unit

Objective To investigate and analyze the relationship between relocation stress, family function and coping strategy in parents of children transferred from Intensive Care Unit (ICU) . Methods Using the method of cross-sectional study, the parents of children transferred from ICU to general ward in Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University from October 2018 to March 2019 were selected as the subjects of study by convenience sampling. General Information Questionnaire, Family Relocation Stress Scale (FRSS) , Feetham Family Functioning Survey (FFFS) , and the Coping Health Inventory for Parents (CHIP) were used to evaluate the relocation stress level and analyze the relationship between scores of FRSS, FFFS, and CHIP. A total of 200 questionnaires were distributed and 179 valid ones were retrieved, yielding an effective recovery rate of 89.5%. Results The total score of FRSS of the 179 ICU-transferred children's parents was (34.52±8.46) , which was in a high level of stress; the total average score of FFFS was (1.27±1.14) ; the total score of "coping style use frequency" was (144.57±13.57) in CHIP, and the total score of "coping style effect" was (78.20±14.83) ; correlation analysis showed that each dimension and total score of FFFS was negatively correlated with the level of relocation stress of parents (P<0.05) , and positively correlated with the "frequency and role of coping styles" (P<0.05) . Conclusions The relocation stress of ICU-transferred children's parents is serious. Family function and coping style are closely related to the level of relocation stress. Medical staff should pay attention to the adaptation of families in the process of transfer, encourage parents to adopt more positive ways to cope with diseases and improve the overall health of children and families. Key words: Intensive Care Unit Ward; Parent; Transfer; Relocation stress; Family function; Coping method
Star Performances: Ed Roberts on the Speaking Circuit, 1983-1995

This article uses historical research methods to explore noted disability rights leader Ed Roberts' performances on the speaker circuit between 1983, when he left his position as director of the California Department of Rehabilitation, and his death in 1995. This article examines how he managed his performed identity, his self as presented on stage, in order to be a disability star. Using his own life story as a poignant example, he narrated an autobiography of how a paralyzed man could live a vigorous, successful, indeed a joyful life. His personal stories communicated his lived experiences of battling discrimination and stereotypes. Roberts skillfully and strategically marshalled his own growing celebrity as the most prominent disabled American while he promoted the cause of civil rights for disabled people.
The character of parietal and orbital alterations in the superfamily Hominoidea (families Hominidae [exclusive of Homo] and Hylobotidae).

Parietal external surface disruption routinely referred to as porotic hyperostosis, and orbital alterations (cribra orbitalia), have been attributed to anemia-related bone marrow hyperplasia in humans. A recent study in humans identified that they were actually vascular in nature. Skeletons were examined and epi-illumination surface microscopy was performed on the parietal region and orbit of 156 Hominidae and 123 Hylobotidae to assess if these phenomena were trans-phylogenetic. Trans-cortical channels were recognized on the basis of visualized ectocranial surface defects penetrating the parietal; cribra orbitalia, by alteration of the normally smooth orbital roof appearance. Trans-cortical parietal channels, ranging in size from 20 to 100 µm, are rare in Gorilla and Pan troglodytes and absent in Pan paniscus. They are universally present in adult Pongo abeli and in Hylobatidae, independent of species. Cribra orbitalia was common in Hylobotidae, Pongo pygmaeus and P. abelii, less prevalent in adult P. troglodytes, and not recognized in any Gorilla gorilla or P. paniscus examined. The proliferative form predominated, with the exception of Hylobates concolor and muelleri, in which uncalcified vascular grooves predominated. No correlation was observed between the presence of either trans-cortical channels or cribra orbitalia and fractures, osteoarthritis, or inflammatory arthritis. Parietal alterations observed in apes are trans-cortical channels, analogous to those observed in humans, and do not represent porosity. Similarly, cribra orbitalia in apes is confirmed as vascular in nature. The proliferative form apparently represents calcification of blood vessel walls, indistinguishable from observations in humans. Predominant presence in adults rather than in juveniles suggests that both forms are acquired rather than developmental in derivation. Sex and bone alteration/disease-independence suggests that mechanical, endocrine, and inflammatory phenomena do not contribute to the development of either. Further, independent occurrence of trans-cortical channels and cribra orbitalia suggests that they do not have a shared etiology.