cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Combined Effects of Axial- and Radial-gap Spacing on the Mass Transfer Characteristics of a Shrouded Rotor-Stator System

Heat transfer characteristics of a shrouded rotor-stator system are examined using a mass transfer analog technique. Both local and average mass-transfer coefficients for a naphthalene-coated disk rotating in a quiescent environment are obtained for 4.0×104 ≤ Re ≤ 2.4×105. The measured results, which correlate well with theoretical predictions, are used to evaluate the influence of radial-gap clearance and axial-gap spacing on average and local mass-transfer rates in a shrouded rotor-stator with no superposed coolant flow. Similar to a rotor-stator system without a shroud, a reduction in the axial gap tends to decrease the average mass transfer, with the magnitude of the decrease being inversely proportional to the Reynolds number. Such a reduction in mass transfer is also found to be influenced by the radial clearance gap. A reduction of the radial clearance from a/D=0.042 to 0.020 is shown to decrease the average Sherwood number by approximately 20 percent of the corresponding free disk value. Local mass transfer distributions illustrate a more significant axial gap effect. For small axial-gap spacings, local Sherwood number profiles are no longer uniform across the rotor face, but exhibit a significant increase near the rotor edge. The magnitude of this increase near the disk edge is shown to be inversely proportional to the radial clearance gap and the rotational Reynolds number.Copyright © 1991 by ASME
Impact of bioflavonoids from berryfruits on biomarkers of metabolic syndrome

The phytochemical constituents which comprise many edible berry fruits have increasingly been linked to modulation of biomarkers associated with conditions of diabetes, overweight/obesity, and cardiovascular disease (CVD), all components of metabolic syndrome. While many wild berries have long been valued in traditional medicine as health protective, it is only recently that the ability of berry bioactives to affect particular clinical targets has been demonstrated. In addition to the widely recognized antioxidant power of berry extracts, both commercial berry varieties and wild species have been linked to hypoglycemic activity, inhibition of adipogenesis, amelioration of CVD risk factors, anti-inflammatory capacity, and ability to induce satiety/counteract overweight. In some cases, proanthocyanidin constituents or anthocyanin pigments have been shown to be the active agents, but in many other cases, interactions between co-occuring phytochemical constituents potentiate bioactivity of berry extracts.
Malnutrition in Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis: Is Intradialytic Parenteral Nutrition the Answer?

Patients with end-stage renal disease often experience malnutrition as a result of decreased dietary intake; inadequate dialysis; loss of nutrients into the dialysate; abnormal protein, carbohydrate, and lipid metabolism; and concomitant diseases, which may contribute to an increase in morbidity and mortality. Intradialytic parenteral nutrition (IDPN) is being used to improve nutritional status, in conjunction with other methods of nutritional supplementation. The biggest advantage of IDPN is probably its convenience since it is administered during dialysis treatment and thus does not require additional clinic visits or prolonged dialysis time. Although IDPN has several disadvantages, its ability to improve nutritional status and reduce morbidity and mortality in patients with end-stage renal disease is promising. Well-designed, large-scale, prospective studies are required to confirm its beneficial effects.
Characterizing methyl-bearing side chain contacts and dynamics mediating amyloid β protofibril interactions using ¹³C(methyl)-DEST and lifetime line broadening.

Many details pertaining to the formation and interactions of protein aggregates associated with neurodegenerative diseases are invisible to conventional biophysical techniques. We recently introduced (15)N dark-state exchange saturation transfer (DEST) and (15)N lifetime line-broadening to study solution backbone dynamics and position-specific binding probabilities for amyloid β (Aβ) monomers in exchange with large (2-80 MDa) protofibrillar Aβ aggregates. Here we use (13)C(methyl)DEST and lifetime line-broadening to probe the interactions and dynamics of methyl-bearing side chains in the Aβ-protofibril-bound state. We show that all methyl groups of Aβ40 populate direct-contact bound states with a very fast effective transverse relaxation rate, indicative of side-chain-mediated direct binding to the protofibril surface. The data are consistent with position-specific enhancements of (13)C(methyl)-R₂(tethered) values in tethered states, providing further insights into the structural ensemble of the protofibril-bound state.
ALCHEMY: a reliable method for automated SNP genotype calling for small batch sizes and highly homozygous populations

Motivation: The development of new high-throughput genotyping products requires a significant investment in testing and training samples to evaluate and optimize the product before it can be used reliably on new samples. One reason for this is current methods for automated calling of genotypes are based on clustering approaches which require a large number of samples to be analyzed simultaneously, or an extensive training dataset to seed clusters. In systems where inbred samples are of primary interest, current clustering approaches perform poorly due to the inability to clearly identify a heterozygote cluster. Results: As part of the development of two custom single nucleotide polymorphism genotyping products for Oryza sativa (domestic rice), we have developed a new genotype calling algorithm called ‘ALCHEMY’ based on statistical modeling of the raw intensity data rather than modelless clustering. A novel feature of the model is the ability to estimate and incorporate inbreeding information on a per sample basis allowing accurate genotyping of both inbred and heterozygous samples even when analyzed simultaneously. Since clustering is not used explicitly, ALCHEMY performs well on small sample sizes with accuracy exceeding 99% with as few as 18 samples.
Transitions from Authoritarian Rule and the Problem of Violence

This article asks why some attempts at democratization trigger a military intervention while others end peacefully. The author argues that the cause of violence lies in a miscommunication within the government rather than in an intransigence of the opposition. A formal model is analyzed in which opposition, reformers, and military bargain over the extent of democratization. The reformers are better informed than the opposition about the military's attitude toward reforms. Consequently, the opposition treats the behavior of the reformers as a signal about the military. In this model, violence occurs only when the reformers are misinformed about the military. The author tests this result against historical evidence from Hungary and Poland. In 1956, both countries attempted to liberalize their dictatorships. Yet, Soviet military intervention occurred only in Hungary. The author traces the difference in the outcomes to different inferences drawn in the two countries about the Soviet attitude toward reform.
Distributed estimation in sensor networks over binary symmetric channels

We consider distributed parameter estimation using quantized observations in wireless sensor networks (WSN) over binary symmetric channels. Due to stringent bandwidth and power constraints, each sensor quantizes its local observation into one bit of information. Previously, adaptive quantization(AQ) schemes were developed under the assumption of perfect communication links in the WSN. In this paper we propose an adaptive quantization scheme for a WSN with channel links modeled as binary symmetric channels. A Hidden Markov Model (HMM) framework is introduced to model the adaptive quantization scheme.We propose an expectation maximization based estimator at the fusion center to form an estimate from the quantized bits. Approximate closed form solutions for the Cramer-Rao lower bounds are developed for the proposed estimation problem. We analyze the performance of the proposed quantization scheme and estimator under different criteria. Numerical simulation results are shown for the proposed adaptive quantization and estimation scheme under different scenarios. The simulation results indicate that the proposed quantization scheme and estimator are robust and can provide superior performance for crossover rates up to 10 %.
READING IN A SECOND LANGUAGE: PROCESS, PRODUCT AND PRACTICE . Sandy Urquhart and Cyril Weir . New York: Longman, 1998. Pp. xvi + 346. £15.99 paper.

This book addresses issues of major concern among researchers and practitioners of second language (L2) reading, including theory of reading, testing of reading comprehension, L2 reading instruction, and methodological issues in L2 reading research. The book not only critically examines reading theories, previous studies, and conventional practice in teaching and testing, but also provides valuable insights into new forms of testing and teaching materials for L2 readers.
Improvement to functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) Methods using Non-rigid Body Image Registration Methods for Correction in the Presence of Susceptibility Artifact Effects

Subject head movement, during the experimental and/ or clinical procedure is an inevitable part of the functional Magnetic Resonance imaging (fMRI) brain mapping methods despite the availability of a large variety of head fixation devices employed in these studies. Thus, image registration is an essential processing step in fMRI. This is due to the fact that there is inevitable movement during the course on an fMRI experiment. An additional challenge is the explicit geometrical deformations associated with MRI. It is known that orientational changes are problematic in MRI in the presence of susceptibility differences especially between bone-tissue and air-tissue interfaces. This paper presents two registration strategies for fMRI registration, one using rigid registration based on maximization of mutual information, and the second is non-rigid registration adapted from Thirion's demons algorithm to demonstrate the importance and impact on fMRI in regions of susceptibility and its dependence on the image registration methodology.
The spatial distribution of glutamatergic inputs to dendrites of retinal ganglion cells.

The spatial pattern of excitatory glutamatergic input was visualized in a large series of ganglion cells of the rabbit retina, using particle-mediated gene transfer of an expression plasmid for PSD95-GFP. PSD95-GFP was confirmed as a marker of excitatory input by co-localization with synaptic ribbons (RIBEYE and kinesin II) and glutamate receptor subunits. Despite wide variation in the size, morphology, and functional complexity of the cells, the distribution of excitatory synaptic inputs followed a single set of rules: (1) The linear density of synaptic inputs (PSD95 sites / linear μm) varied surprisingly little and showed little specialization within the arbor. (2) The total density of excitatory inputs across individual arbors peaked in a ring-shaped region surrounding the soma. This is in accord with high-resolution maps of receptive field sensitivity in the rabbit. (3) The areal density scaled inversely with the total area of the dendritic arbor, so that narrow dendritic arbors receive more synapses per unit area than large ones. To achieve sensitivity comparable to that of large cells, those that report upon a small region of visual space may need to receive a denser synaptic input from within that space.
Schmitt, Locke, and the Limits of Liberalism

This article brings Carl Schmitt's Political Theology into conversation with John Locke's Second Treatise of Government. Two fundamental issues are considered: the relationship between Locke's theory of prerogative power and Schmitt's sovereign/commissarial distinction, and the place of the theological—in particular the “miraculous” nature of the exception. While some have claimed that Locke's theory of prerogative fits the model of “commissarial dictatorship” I argue that Locke actually complicates the sovereign/commissarial distinction by maintaining the tensions between prerogative, law and popular judgment. Schmitt, on the other hand, dissolves the tension by absorbing popular sovereignty into sovereign exceptionalism. Concerning the miraculous nature of the exception, I argue that Schmitt's claim should be understood as part of a broader effort to render politics serious and so I situate his remarks in light of the complex relationship between the political and the moral in his Concept of the Political. Because Locke's politics is “already” serious in the sense of being firmly situated within natural law, exceptional circumstances do not perform the same redemptive function.
PSEUDOFORCE METHOD FOR NONLINEAR ANALYSIS AND REANALYSIS OF STRUCTURAL SYSTEMS

This paper develops a new solver to enhance the computational efficiency of finite-element pro- grams for the nonlinear analysis and reanalysis of structural systems. The proposed solver does not require the reassembly of the global stiffness matrix and can be easily implemented in present-day finite-element packages. It is particularly well suited to those situations where a limited number of members are changed at each step of an iterative optimization algorithm or reliability analysis. It is also applicable to a nonlinear analysis where the plastic zone spreads throughout the structure due to incremental loading. This solver is based on an extension of the Sherman-Morrison-Woodburg formula and is applicable to a variety of structural systems including 2D and 3D trusses, frames, grids, plates, and shells. The solver defines the response of the modified structure as the difference between the response of the original structure to a set of applied loads and the response of the original structure to a set of pseudoforces. The proposed algorithm requires O(mn) operations, as compared with traditional solvers that need O(m 2 n) operations, where m = bandwidth of the global stiffness matrix and n = number of degrees of freedom. Thus, the pseudoforce method provides a dramatic improvement of computational efficiency for structural redesign and optimization problems, since it can perform a nonlinear incremental analysis no harder than the inversion of the global stiffness matrix. The proposed method's efficiency and accuracy are demonstrated in this paper through the nonlinear analysis of an example bridge and a frame redesign problem.
Mitral valve operation via Port Access versus median sternotomy

Objective: The advantages and disadvantages of minimally invasive Port Access mitral valve operation have not been defined relative to standard median sternotomy. A study was therefore designed to delineate differences in outcome from mitral operation via Port Access versus sternotomy in comparable patients. Methods: The records of 41 consecutive patients undergoing isolated mitral valve replacement (n = 14) or repair (n = 27) were examined. All operations were performed using cardioplegic arrest through either median sternotomy (n = 20) or a small right anterolateral thoracotomy using an endoaortic clamp and catheter system (Heartport, Redwood City, CA) to arrest and decompress the heart (Port Access, n = 21). Results: Both groups were well matched for age, mitral pathology, ejection fraction, and comorbidity, except that Port Access patients were less likely to be female. Three patients had undergone previous cardiac operations. Surgical procedure time was longer for Port Access patients (384 ∠ 80 vs. 263 ∠ 41 min, P , 0.05). Port Access provided significantly smaller incision length (8 ∠ 2 vs. 26 ∠ 2 cm, P , 0.01) and similar or shorter hospital stay (6 ∠ 4 vs. 7 ∠ 3 days). Port Access provided excellent visualization of the mitral valve and subvalvular apparatus, generally better than sternotomy, to allow complex mitral valve repairs. The greatest advantage of Port Access mitral operation was that Port Access patients returned to normal activity more rapidly (4 ∠ 2 vs. 9 ∠ 1 weeks, P = 0.01) than did patients undergoing standard median sternotomy. Conclusions: By avoiding a sternotomy, Port Access mitral valve operation provided a smaller incision and a dramatically more rapid return to normal activity than did median sternotomy. Port Access cardioplegic arrest with the Heartport system allowed visualization of the mitral valve superior to median sternotomy and has become the standard approach at this institution. © 1998 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved
Introductory Remarks by Honored Guest

A year or so ago my friend Jerry Pearlman asked me whether I would be willing to say a few words to set the stage for this Symposium. Not being able to decline any request of Jerry’s, I accepted with pleasure. But you will realize my somewhat anxious surprise when a circular letter appeared a couple of months ago, stating that I had accepted to be the honored guest—a distinction of which I knew nothing. Of course, I am very grateful to Jerry, with whom I spent a few happy years in Iowa, that he wanted to single me out in this fashion, but I am also keenly aware that I deserve this honor infinitely less than many another person present here.
Effect of microwave radiation on the ionized gas behind a strong normal shock wave

Abstract : An analytical study of the interaction between microwaves and a fully-ionized gas behind a normal shock wave is presented. The governing differential equations derived by a quasi-steady analysis are used to obtain the non-dimensional parameters and integrated to yield the first integrals of the momentum and energy equations. A modified Prandtl relation is derived from which the final equilibrium state of the ionized gas can be found. Ionization is seen to increase the final equilibrium density, while microwave heating tends to reduce its value. It is further shown that thermal choking of the ionized gas occurs at a critical microwave power level, which is a function of the Mach number ahead of the shock wave, the reflection coef ficient of the microwave, and the ionization potential expressed in terms of the neutral gas temperature ahead of the shock wave. At higher power levels the shock wave moves upstream allowing additional microwave heating of the ionized gas. A formula is given for the determi nation of this equivalent higher Mach number. At a sufficiently high power level (but slightly below the critical value), the mean gas tempera ture is shown to attain a peak value higher than its final equilibrium value. This peak temperature actually represents the upper bound of the mean gas temperature for a given initial Mach number. (Author)
The desmin coil 1B mutation K190A impairs nebulin Z-disc assembly and destabilizes actin thin filaments

Desmin intermediate filaments intimately surround myofibrils in vertebrate muscle forming a mesh-like filament network. Desmin attaches to sarcomeres through its high-affinity association with nebulin, a giant F-actin binding protein that co-extends along the length of actin thin filaments. Here, we further investigated the functional significance of the association of desmin and nebulin in cultured primary myocytes to address the hypothesis that this association is key in integrating myofibrils to the intermediate filament network. Surprisingly, we identified eight peptides along the length of desmin that are capable of binding to C-terminal modules 160–170 in nebulin. In this study, we identified a targeted mutation (K190A) in the desmin coil 1B region that results in its reduced binding with the nebulin C-terminal modules. Using immunofluorescence microscopy and quantitative analysis, we demonstrate that expression of the mutant desmin K190A in primary myocytes results in a significant reduction in assembled endogenous nebulin and desmin at the Z-disc. Non-uniform actin filaments were markedly prevalent in myocytes expressing GFP-tagged desmin K190A, suggesting that the near-crystalline organization of actin filaments in striated muscle depends on a stable interaction between desmin and nebulin. All together, these data are consistent with a model in which Z-disc-associated nebulin interacts with desmin through multiple sites to provide efficient stability to satisfy the dynamic contractile activity of myocytes.
Using Therapeutic Sound With Progressive Audiologic Tinnitus Management

Management of tinnitus generally involves educational counseling, stress reduction, and/or the use of therapeutic sound. This article focuses on therapeutic sound, which can involve three objectives: (a) producing a sense of relief from tinnitus-associated stress (using soothing sound); (b) passively diverting attention away from tinnitus by reducing contrast between tinnitus and the acoustic environment (using background sound); and (c) actively diverting attention away from tinnitus (using interesting sound). Each of these goals can be accomplished using three different types of sound-broadly categorized as environmental sound, music, and speech-resulting in nine combinations of uses of sound and types of sound to manage tinnitus. The authors explain the uses and types of sound, how they can be combined, and how the different combinations are used with Progressive Audiologic Tinnitus Management. They also describe how sound is used with other sound-based methods of tinnitus management (Tinnitus Masking, Tinnitus Retraining Therapy, and Neuromonics).
Identifying cryptic population structure in multigenerational pedigrees in a Mexican American sample

Cryptic population structure can increase both type I and type II errors. This is particularly problematic in case-control association studies of unrelated individuals. Some researchers believe that these problems are obviated in families. We argue here that this may not be the case, especially if families are drawn from a known admixed population such as Mexican Americans. We use a principal component approach to evaluate and visualize the results of three different approaches to searching for cryptic structure in the 20 multigenerational families of the Genetic Analysis Workshop 18 (GAW18). Approach 1 uses all family members in the sample to identify what might be considered "outlier" kindreds. Because families are likely to differ in size (in the GAW18 families, there is about a 4-fold difference in the number of typed individuals), approach 2 uses a weighting system that equalizes pedigree size. Approach 3 concentrates on the founders and the "marry-ins" because, in principle, the entire pedigree can be reconstructed with knowledge of the sequence of these unrelated individuals and genome-wide association study (GWAS) data on everyone else (to identify the position of recombinations). We demonstrate that these three approaches can yield very different insights about cryptic structure in a sample of families.
Buprenorphine in the treatment of opioid addiction: opportunities, challenges and strategies

Introduction: Buprenorphine follows the success of methadone as another milestone in the history of treatment for opioid addiction. Buprenorphine can be used in an office-based setting where it is clearly effective, highly accepted by patients and has a favorable safety profile and less abuse potential. However, the adoption of buprenorphine treatment has been slow in the USA.Areas covered: This article first reviews the history of medication-assisted opioid addiction treatment and the current epidemic opioid addiction, followed by a review of the efficacy, pharmacology and clinical prescription of buprenorphine in office-based care. We then explore the possible barriers in using buprenorphine and the ways to overcome these barriers, including new formulations, educational programs and policy regulations that strike a balance between accessibility and reducing diversion.Expert opinion: Buprenorphine can align addiction treatment with treatments for other chronic medical illnesses. However, preventing dive...
Free indulgences: Enhanced zero-price effect for hedonic options

Abstract We find that the relative preference of hedonic products is disproportionately enhanced when they are offered at a free price. This “free price bounce” is more subdued for utilitarian products. This is surprising because rational choice theory posits that relative preference amidst two options – say a hedonic and a utilitarian product – remains intact as long as the price difference between them is constant. We propose and demonstrate that this axiom is violated when a hedonic product is offered for free.
The State and the Economy: The 'Radicalization of the Revolution' in Mobutu's Zaire

RESUMELe 30 decembre 1974 le president Mobutu a declare que desormais la revolution zairoise est entree dans sa nouvelle phase. Les changements importants ont ete introduits dans la politique economique du pays. Certaines entreprises auparavant “zairianisees” (appartenant aux etrangers elle furent attribuees aux particuliers de nationalite zairoise) ont ete reprises par l'Etat et leur direction confiee aux personnalites nommees par le President.L'article analyse l'evolution de cette politique au niveau de la capitale et son application a l'interieur. Il montre que la nouvelle politique economique privilegie la bourgeoisie politico-commerciale et non, comme le pretendent les autorites politiques, la population toute entiere. L'analyse souligne l'omnipresente interpenetration des secteurs commercial et economique, l'ambiguite de la politique economique et les difficultes de son application.
Neurological Variants of Lesch-Nyhan Disease

A prospective, multicenter international study of neurological manifestations of Lesch-Nyhan disease variants is reported from Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA.
Transmission of Penicillin Through Human Placenta.

SummaryPenicillin was administered to 4 normal patients in active labor. Two patients received one hundred thousand units each. Both showed significant amounts of penicillin in the maternal and placental cord blood, 2 hours after administration. Two patients received twenty thousand units of penicillin each. The patient who received it one-half hour before delivery showed ample penicillin in the maternal and placental cord blood but not in the amniotic fluid. The patient who received penicillin one hour before delivery showed significant penicillin in the maternal blood but none in the placental cord blood.
Stress Induced Martensitic(SIM) Transformations In B2 NiAl Observed in Crack Propagation Computer Simulations

In molecular dynamics studies of 10,000 atom arrays of stoichiometric B2 NiAl containing a crack under external stress in Mode I loading, it has been observed that a martensitic transformation generally occurs (starting in the vicinity of the crack tip) prior to the generation of dislocations and/or the propagation of the crack. The martensitic phase appears to be 2H, in agreement with experimental observations of SIM at higher Ni compositions (62 at % Ni). The interatomic interactions used in the simulations were the Embedded Atom Method (EAM) potentials developed by Voter and Chen [1] for the Ni-Al alloy system.
ISO 9000: Quality Systems and Accreditation

ISO (International Organization for Standardization) 9000 is an internationally recognized quality system standard for manufacturing and service industries. Nonmanufacturing (service) companies hold 10% of all North American ISO 9000 certificates. Implementation ofprocessfocussed quality systems is the next challenge for the US health care sector. Such systems will he used as a comprehensive tool for process development and improvement in health care. Organizations will use these systems, if properly focussed, to meet regulatory and accreditation requirements. Applications of ISO 9000 in the health care sector are discussed, with specific comments relative to clinical laboratories and the accreditation process. Quality systems approaches will enable development of more robust and cost-effective health care delivery coupled with quality improvements. This is the second article in a three-part continuing education series on regulations and accreditation. On completion of this article, the reader will be able to list the elements of the ISO 9000 quality system standard; identify the difference in elements of the ISO 9001 and ISO 9002 quality systems; and describe the potential applications of ISO 9000 quality systems in health care.
Surface Mounted Flow State Estimation of Reduced Order POD Models: Shear Layer

For the application of feedback flow control, surface mounted sensors are needed to accurately, efficiently and robustly estimate the flow state. The ability to estimate the flow state in real time is crucial for state based feedback flow control. This paper explores three different methods of state estimation: linear stochastic estimation, artificial neural network estimation, and wavenet estimation. Sensor locations are chosen based on Proper Orthogonal Decomposition of surface flow information. Parameters such as the number of sensors and training database are varied with the goal of developing a highly accurate, robust flow state estimation method for a given flow state basis. The state estimation methods are then applied to the unstable shear layer. Wavenets prove to be a very useful identification method for frequency rich, highly non-linear, periodic behavior.
Next-To-Interpolatory Approximation on Sets with Multiplicities

It is known that given a set X of m (⩾n) distinct real numbers and a real-valued function f denned on X, there exists a unique polynomial pn-1,f,x of degree n — 1 or less which approximates best to f(x) on X, that is, which minimizes the deviation δ = δ(f, p) defined by the αth-power metric (α < 1) with positive weights, or by the positively weighted maximum of |f — p| on X; these deviations shall be denoted by δα and δβ. The polynomial pn-1,f,x has the property that f — pn-1,f,x has at least n strong sign changes; in other words, there are at least n + 1 points in X where the difference takes alternatingly positive and negative values.
Computational investigation of dynamical transitions in Trp-cage miniprotein powders

We investigate computationally the dynamical transitions in Trp-cage miniprotein powders, at three levels of hydration: 0.04, 0.26 and 0.4 g water/g protein. We identify two distinct temperatures where transitions in protein dynamics occur. Thermal motions are harmonic and independent of hydration level below Tlow ≈ 160 K, above which all powders exhibit harmonic behavior but with a different and enhanced temperature dependence. The second onset, which is often referred to as the protein dynamical transition, occurs at a higher temperature TD that decreases as the hydration level increases, and at the lowest hydration level investigated here (0.04 g/g) is absent in the temperature range we studied in this work (T ≤ 300 K). Protein motions become anharmonic at TD, and their amplitude increases with hydration level. Upon heating above TD, hydrophilic residues experience a pronounced enhancement in the amplitude of their characteristic motions in hydrated powders, whereas it is the hydrophobic residues that experience the more pronounced enhancement in the least hydrated system. The dynamical transition in Trp-cage is a collective phenomenon, with every residue experiencing a transition to anharmonic behavior at the same temperature.
Ion channels in neuroglial cells

With the advent of the patch clamp technique, many different types of ion channels have been found in neuroglial cells, including voltage-sensitive ion channels (Na+, Ca2+, K+, and CI- channels), ligand-gated ion channels (glutamate receptor and GABAA receptor), and mechanosensitive ion channels. Most of these ion channels have also been found in excitable cells, and thus excitable and non-excitable cells in the nervous system share a similar repertoire of ion channel gene expression. Various factors, such as different developmental stage or different regions in the brain, are known to influence glial ion channel expression. In addition, glial ion channel expression is influenced by the presence of neurons, suggesting the existence of dynamic mechanism(s) for regulating ion channel expression via cell-to-cell signaling between neurons and glia. In this review, the current understanding of various types of ion channels found in neuroglial cells (i.e., astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and Schwann cells) is summarized.
Professional satisfaction among U.S. healthcare chaplains.

This article reports the results of a questionnaire sent to 1,099 chaplains with board certification from the Association of Professional Chaplains regarding determinants of professional satisfaction among U.S. healthcare chaplains.
Modeling Size Limitations of Resistive Crossbar Array With Cell Selectors

Due to recent developments in emerging memory technologies, resistive crossbar arrays have gained increasing importance. The size of the crossbar arrays is, however, limited due to challenges brought by the interconnect resistance, sneak path currents, and the physical area of the peripheral circuitry. In this paper, three figures of merit that characterize the limitations of resistive crossbar arrays with selectors are described, such as the driver resistance, voltage degradation across the cell, and read margin. The models, exhibiting good agreement with SPICE, are compared with different biasing schemes during both write and read operations. These models are also used to predict the device requirements of resistive crossbar arrays with selectors and to project parameter values, such as the nonlinearity factor, on-state resistance, and tolerable interconnect resistance per cell for large-scale crossbar arrays.
A combination of TSM and AFM for investigating an interfacial interaction of particles with surfaces

Interactions of microparticles and nanoparticles with various surfaces under different ambient conditions are of great importance to many applications such as micro-electrical-mechanical systems (MEMS), biomedical and chemical engineering, and have attracted broad interests in the last decade. However, there are only limited numbers of techniques currently available for interfacial particle analysis. In this paper, we propose to use a piezoelectric quartz sensor in a thickness shear mode (TSM) to characterize the interfacial interaction of a single microparticle with a surface. A theoretical model was developed based on the analysis of the various interaction forces, including Van der Waals (VDW) force, capillary force and electrostatic force, etc. The dependence of the particle-surface interaction forces on the particle size was demonstrated. Experimental results from a 5MHz TSM sensor have shown an average frequency shift of 0.5 Hz for a 40 mum stainless steel sphere, which indicated that a coupling strength between a sphere and a surface is about 1.3times104 N/m. An atomic force microscope (AFM) was used to provide a complementary tool to help study the interfacial interactions. Adhesion forces between particles and surfaces were measured and favorably compared with the simulation results. It is shown that a TSM sensor is capable of real-time analyzing an interaction of a single microparticle with a surface and an AFM is helpful to identify the effect of each individual interaction force. A combined TSM-AFM technique may create a novel measurement platform for characterization of nanoparticles and their interactions with surfaces
Natural language processing for enhancing teaching and learning

Advances in natural language processing (NLP) and educational technology, as well as the availability of unprecedented amounts of educationally-relevant text and speech data, have led to an increasing interest in using NLP to address the needs of teachers and students. Educational applications differ in many ways, however, from the types of applications for which NLP systems are typically developed. This paper will organize and give an overview of research in this area, focusing on opportunities as well as challenges.
Identification of Genes Associated with Increased Bone Marrow Angiogenesis in Multiple Myeloma.

Abstract Introduction: Increased bone marrow angiogenesis is a characteristic feature of multiple myeloma (MM) and correlates with disease progression. Increased bone marrow angiogenesis at the time of diagnosis, measured in terms of microvessel density (MVD), is a powerful adverse prognostic factor for patients with MM. To better understand the biological basis of this phenomenon and to understand the mechanisms responsible for increased MVD in MM we compared the gene expression profiles of plasma cells from newly diagnosed MM patients with low and high MVD. Methods: Bone marrow biopsy sections from pts with newly diagnosed MM were studied using CD34 immunostaining and graded as low, intermediate, or high by MVD as previously described. 19 pts each, with low or high MVD were included for this study. RNA was isolated from CD138+ plasma cells of MM patients and analyzed using Affymetrix HG-U133A arrays. To examine differential expression, GC-RMA normalized data was analyzed using GeneSpring 7.2 software and genes with ≥ 2-fold differential expression between high and low MVD samples were identified. The Welch T-test was used to determine the significance of differential expression. Results and Conclusion: Expression of 42 transcripts was increased ≥ 2-fold in samples with high MVD in comparison to samples with low MVD. Of these transcripts, 14 were found to be significantly increased (P 2-fold). In conclusion, the list of differentially expressed genes reveals many functions relevant to MM disease pathology including proliferation, apoptosis, regulation of gene expression, cytokine signaling, and adhesion. Current studies evaluating the expression and function of these genes in relation to MM may identify factors critical for angiogenesis and MM progression and provide insight for therapeutic intervention. Gene Description Fold Change COL1A2 collagen, type I, alpha 2 3.008 MCL1 myeloid cell leukemia sequence 1 (BCL2-related) 2.793 209183_s_at chromosome 10 open reading frame 10 2.541 VIL2 villin 2 2.478 IL6ST interleukin 6 signal transducer (gp130) 2.404 CLIC2 chloride intracellular channel 2 2.364 DEPDC6 DEP domain containing 6 2.35 PBXIP1 pre-B-cell leukemia transcription factor interacting protein 1 2.337 CLIC4 chloride intracellular channel 4 2.334 CYP51A1 cytochrome P450, family 51, subfamily A, polypeptide 1 2.095 LIMS1 LIM and senescent cell antigen-like domains 1 2.091 YWHAE tyrosine 3-monooxygenase/tryptophan 5-monooxygenase activation protein, epsilon polypeptide 2.042 OAS1 2′,5′-oligoadenylate synthetase 1, 40/46kDa 2.031 S100A11 S100 calcium binding protein A11 2.018 222378_at unknown transcribed sequences 0.496 SLC5A3 mitochondrial ribosomal protein S6 0.463 213089_at unknown transcribed sequences 0.406 PDE4B phosphodiesterase 4B, cAMP-specific 0.454 SVIL supervillin 0.386 RIPX rap2 interacting protein x 0.383
SCI peer health coach influence on self-management with peers: a qualitative analysis

A process evaluation of a clinical trial. To describe the roles fulfilled by peer health coaches (PHCs) with spinal cord injury (SCI) during a randomized controlled trial research study called ‘My Care My Call’, a novel telephone-based, peer-led self-management intervention for adults with chronic SCI 1+ years after injury. Connecticut and Greater Boston Area, MA, USA. Directed content analysis was used to qualitatively examine information from 504 tele-coaching calls, conducted with 42 participants with SCI, by two trained SCI PHCs. Self-management was the focus of each 6-month PHC–peer relationship. PHCs documented how and when they used the communication tools (CTs) and information delivery strategies (IDSs) they developed for the intervention. Interaction data were coded and analyzed to determine PHC roles in relation to CT and IDS utilization and application. PHCs performed three principal roles: Role Model, Supporter, and Advisor. Role Model interactions included CTs and IDSs that allowed PHCs to share personal experiences of managing and living with an SCI, including sharing their opinions and advice when appropriate. As Supporters, PHCs used CTs and IDSs to build credible relationships based on dependability and reassuring encouragement. PHCs fulfilled the unique role of Advisor using CTs and IDSs to teach and strategize with peers about SCI self-management. The SCI PHC performs a powerful, flexible role in promoting SCI self-management among peers. Analysis of PHC roles can inform the design of peer-led interventions and highlights the importance for the provision of peer mentor training.
The Cardiovascular Toxicity of Chlordimeform: A Local Anesthetic-Like Action

Chlordimeform (CDM) is a formamidine pesticide with interesting and unusual biological activities (Hollingworth, 1976). It is moderately toxic to mammals (mouse oral LD50=195–310 mg/kg; Hollingworth, 1976). It has little action on cholinergic transmission in insects or mammals (Dittrich, 1966; Beeman and Matsumura, 1973), although a decrease in acetyl choline receptor sensitivity has been observed in frog muscle following large doses of CDM (Wang et al., 1975; Watanabe et al., 1975). CDM and related compounds inhibit monoamine oxidase in rat and mouse liver (Beeman and Matsumura, 1973; Aziz and Knowles, 1973) and uncouple oxidative phosphorylation and electron transport in rat liver mitochondria (Abo-Khatwa and Hollingworth, 1974). Although each of these authors suggested that such actions could be involved in acute toxicity, no one has satisfactorily related these biological actions to toxicity. Furthermore, certain poisoning symptoms such as the rapid onset of tremors and convulsions could not be explained readily by either of these biochemical sites of action (Neumann and Voss, 1977; Lund l et al., 1977). Thus the cause of death and the physiological mechanisms underlying some symptoms remain unknown.
No Nogo: Now Where to Go?

Nogo-A, a reticulon protein expressed by oligodendrocytes, contributes to the axonal growth inhibitory action of central myelin in growth cone collapse and neurite outgrowth in vitro assays, and antibody and inhibitor studies have implicated a role for Nogo in regeneration in the adult CNS in vivo. Three independent labs have now produced Nogo knockout mice with, quite unexpectedly, three different regeneration phenotypes.
The Costs and Benefits of Immigration Enforcement

For more than two decades, the US government has attempted to put a stop to unauthorized immigration from (and through) Mexico by implementing “enforcement-only” measures along the US–Mexico border and at work sites throughout the country. These measures have not only failed to end unauthorized immigration but have also placed downward pressure on wages in a broad swath of industries. In recent decades, the US government’s avoidance of immigration reform and dependence upon enforcement-only approaches to immigration has served only to deepen a vicious cycle of underground labor markets, lower wages, lower consumption, lower tax revenue, and reduced productivity. Were the government to end this failed enforcement-only crusade and create a pathway to legal status for unauthorized immigrants in the US, as well as new legal limits on immigration that respond to market forces, it would raise the social floor for the entire US economy—to the benefit of both immigrant and native-born workers.
Empathy and Other-Awareness

We are aware of other persons in many different ways. Our thoughts, feelings, or experiences may present another by image in a mental picture, by name as “Dagfinn Follesdal” or “Virginia Woolf”, by description as “the founder of cubism” or “the leader of the Cuban Revolution”, or indexically as “you” or “she” or “he” or “they”. But it is only in perception, especially in seeing “you” or “her” or “him”, that we are acquainted with other persons.
The Pediatric Critical Care Transfusion and Anemia Expertise Initiative Consensus Conference Methodology.

Objectives This article describes the methodology used for Pediatric Critical Care Transfusion and Anemia Expertise Initiative Consensus Conference. Design Consensus conference of international experts in pediatric critical care and transfusion medicine, following standards set by the Institute of Medicine, using the Research and Development/UCLA Appropriateness Method, modeled after the Pediatric Acute Lung Injury Consensus Conference. Topics related to RBC transfusion in children with or at risk for critical illness were divided into nine subgroups with a systematic review of the literature. Methods The panel of 38 content and four methodology experts met three times over the course of 2 years and collaborated to develop evidence-based and, when evidence was lacking, expert-based clinical recommendations as well as research priorities for RBC transfusions in critically ill children or those at risk for critical illness. Electronic searches were conducted using PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases from 1980 to May 2017. Agreement was obtained using the Research and Development/UCLA Appropriateness Method. We used a standardized data extraction form to construct evidence tables and graded the evidence using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system. Main results The consensus conference resulted in 102 recommendation statements, of which 57 were clinical (20 evidence based and 37 based on expert consensus) and 45 detailed recommendations for future research. Dissemination was done via decision tree, a primary publication listing all statements, and separate publications for each subtopic that include supporting arguments for each recommendation. Conclusions A consensus conference of experts from around the world developed recommendations for RBC transfusions in critically ill children or children at risk for critical illness, the identification of current research gaps, and future research priorities.
The silk road and sources of Chinese medicine expansion: Part 2 – Formularies

Medicines have been traded along the Silk Road from antiquity until modern times. These products and their associated knowledge have been transferred over the land and sea between Asia, Europe, and Africa. Numerous texts that contain formulas and treatments passed along the Silk Road. Collections of these formulas and treatment methods called formularies contain unique information that informs this transfer of medicine. The texts and information flowed in both directions along these routes and while Chinese medicine influenced foreign medical practices both in history, and today, the incorporation of non-Chinese medicine and information also continues to influence Chinese medicine.
Effect of sulfur fertilization on chemical composition, ensiling characteristics and utilization of corn silage by lambs.

Effects of S fertilization, 0 or 67 kg S/ha, as (NH4)2SO4, as a single or split application on chemical composition, ensiling characteristics and utilization of corn (Zea mays L.) silage by wether lambs was investigated. Corn forages were ensiled at hard-dent stage at 35% dry matter (DM). Sulfur fertilization increased (P less than .01) total S and SO4 but had no effect on N, Mg, Ca or fiber components in silages. Sulfur-fertilized corn silages (N:S = 42 and 43) and non-S fertilized silage (N:S = 62) were fed alone and supplemented with Na2SO4 at two rates to achieve N:S ratios of 12 (high) and 45 (low, to approximate S-fertilized silage), to 30 wether lambs (Suffolk and Dorset crosses) in metabolism and palatability trials. Both trials were randomized complete-block designs. Lambs weighed 36 and 41 kg, respectively. All silages were supplemented with 6.7 g urea/d. Digestibility of DM and cell wall components, and apparent absorption of S and N were increased (P less than .05) by S fertilization and supplementation. Nitrogen retention was increased (P less than .01) by S fertilization and supplementation. Retention was higher (P less than .001) for lambs that were fed S-fertilized silage, compared with supplementation to achieve a similar N:S ratio. It appears that S fertilization was more effective than S supplementation in improving efficiency of N utilization.