cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Diaspora and the Afterlife of Violence: Eritrean National Narratives and What Goes Without Saying

This article explores the legacies of political violence, the workings of state power in mobilizing identities around collective suffering, and the effects of political culture that reside in people even after they have left the time and space of war. I interrogate the silence on Eritrean diaspora websites regarding personal suffering related to the war that produced Eritrea as an independent nation, elevated its current president and ruling party to government leadership, and established the Eritrean diaspora. I argue that national narratives of the Eritrean state that celebrate sacrifice for the nation operate on Eritreans as a secondary form of violence that renders their personal losses unspeakable. Eritrean websites reveal complex communicative terrains where power is constructed and contested in ways that cannot be captured by the opposition between the diaspora and the homeland, between online and offline, or between silence and speech. [political violence, suffering, diaspora, internet, war, Eritrea]
Phase Microscope Studies of Living Blood-cells of the Tunicates under Normal and Experimental Conditions, with a Description of a New Type of Motile Cell Appendage

The living blood-cells of tunicates have been studied by means of phase contrast microscopy. The species used were Ascidia atra Lesueur, Ecteinascidia turbinata , and Clavelina picta , all of which are common in the Bermuda region. Blood-cells in blood taken directly from the heart, or from the vessels, or elsewhere, particularly in the tunic of Ecteinascidia turbinata and Clavelina picta , were observed for periods ranging up to 24 h. A new type of appendage is described for those cells which we have called vacuolate cells (‘Q cells’ of Fulton, ‘signet-ring’ and ‘colorless morula cell’ of George). Individual cells show from 1 to 5 appendages, which are beaded and actively undulate. Fragments from the appendages continue to undulate. Such fragments bear some resemblance to blood-platelets of higher vertebrates in their strongly adhesive properties. In view of the morphological features, motility characteristics, and apparent functions, the terms lymphocyte and macrophage are considered appropriate for the finely granular and coarsely granular amoebocytes. No active swimming motions of the orange cells, nor of any other corpuscles were seen; but all of the types of cells, coloured and colourless, with the exception of the vacuolate cells, exhibit amoeboid progression. No transformation of vacuolate into green cells was brought about in our experiments with varying strengths of acid, contrary to the earlier findings of Fulton. Many types of blood-cells in the tunicates have ‘fixed cell’ counterparts in the tissues. It is suggested that the large ‘bladder cells’ of the tunic of A. atra Lesueur may be such counterparts of the vacuolate cells of the blood.
Analysis of Global Positioning System-based attacks and a novel Global Positioning System spoofing detection/mitigation algorithm for unmanned aerial vehicle simulation:

Simulation test beds serve as a cost-effective and safe way to evaluate the system performance of various real world systems. With the rising concerns in the security of sensitive and critical syst...
Delayed tuberculosis diagnosis and costs of contact investigations for hospital exposure: New York City, 2010-2014.

Background A delayed diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB) in the hospital may lead to nosocomial exposure, placing employees and other patients at risk. A lack of prompt infection control measures for suspected cases at the time of admission may require complicated and expensive contact investigations. The purpose of this study was to estimate the person-hour costs required by infection control staff to investigate a single hospital-based TB exposure. Methods Electronic data were extracted from 2 tertiary hospitals and 1 community hospital in a large health care system in metropolitan New York City to identify pulmonary TB cases unsuspected at admission. All cases were reviewed by infection prevention and control (IPC) staff to identify exposures. Results From 2010-2014, 34 pulmonary TB cases which necessitated a contact investigation were identified. IPC staff calculated an average of 15-20 hours of work per exposure plus 30 minutes of follow-up for each exposed staff member. For exposures, time from admission to isolation averaged 3.3 days, with a mean of 41 staff exposed per patient and an approximate resource usage of 38 person-hours. Conclusions Contact investigations are costly to the health care system. In a low-prevalence country, such as the United States, it is still important that health care providers are trained to think TB.
Rhythm Activities in High Schools

(1938). Rhythm Activities in High Schools. The Journal of Health and Physical Education: Vol. 9, No. 3, pp. 140-191.
Energy Efficiency in Cable Shovel Operations

This chapter seeks to establish the current knowledge on energy efficiency of cable shovel operations. Additionally, the chapter uses a review of the literature to make recommendations for industrial best practices and for future research to address identified gaps in the literature. The chapter first presents the fundamentals of cable shovel operations and the factors that affect the energy efficiency of shovel operations. Subsequently, the chapter presents an overview of the latest research on cable shovel energy efficiency, which is used as the basis for the recommendations. The chapter recommends that industry practitioners should use the right drive systems for their cable shovels, use data analytics to understand shovel energy efficiency, and carefully evaluate the costs and benefits of energy efficiency initiatives. The chapter also recommends that future research on shovel energy efficiency should: (i) establish theoretical benchmarks for cable shovel operations; (ii) account for human factors in the design of operator guidance systems to assist operators during shovel operations; and (iii) evaluate how effective operator training programs are in improving shovel energy efficiency.
Discriminating between interstitial and circulating leukocytes in tissues of the murine oral mucosa avoiding nasal-associated lymphoid tissue contamination

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory response to a microbial biofilm that destroys bone and soft tissues supporting the teeth. Murine models of periodontitis based on Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg) colonization have shown that extravasation of leukocytes into oral tissue is critical to driving alveolar bone destruction. Identifying interstitial leukocytes is key to understanding the immunopathogenesis of periodontitis. Here, we describe a robust flow cytometry assay based on intravenous FITC-conjugated anti-mouse CD45 mAb that distinguishes interstitial leukocytes in the oral mucosa of mice from those circulating within the vasculature or in post-dissection contaminating blood. Unaccounted circulating leukocytes skewed the relative frequency of B cells and granulocytes and inflated the numbers of all leukocyte cell types. We also describe a dissection technique that avoids contamination of oral mucosal tissues with nasal-associated lymphoid tissues (NALT), a B cell rich organ that can inflate leukocyte numbers at least 10-fold and skew the assessment of interstitial CD4 T cell phenotypes. Unlike circulating CD4 T cells, interstitial CD4 T cells were almost exclusively antigen-experienced cells (CD44hi). We report for the first time the presence of antigen-experienced Pg-specific CD4 T cells in NALT following oral feeding of mice with Pg. This new combined flow cytometry and dissection approach allows identification of leukocytes infiltrating the connective tissues of the murine oral mucosa and avoids confounding analyses of leukocytes not recruited to inflamed oral mucosal tissues in disease conditions like periodontitis, candidiasis, or sialadenitis.
Social communication between microbes colonizing the social honey bee Apis mellifera

The European honey bee (Apis mellifera) is a charismatic species that plays a critical role in the pollination of agriculturally important crops and native flora. One emerging field of research is that of the host-associated honey bee microbiome: a group of bacterial phylotypes consistently found within the honey bee, which may play critical roles such as protection from pathogens and nutrient acquisition. In other model systems, host-associated microbial communities are known to participate in a form of bacterial communication known as quorum sensing. This type of communication allows bacteria to sense their environment and respond with changes in gene expression, controlling a number of factors including virulence, biofilm formation, and cell motility. Here, we have investigated the production of a specific quorum sensing molecule by honey bee microbes in vivo and in vitro. We specifically focused on the inter-species signaling molecule, autoinducer-2 (AI-2). We identified the production of AI-2 by both the entire community (using honey bee gut homogenates) and by cultured isolates, using a Vibrio harveyi biosensor. By comparing newly emerged and adult bees, we showed this signal is likely coming from the core microbial community. Finally, using honey bee specific bacterial isolates, we identified changes in biofilm production when isolates are exposed to increased levels of exogenous AI-2. Altogether, these data provide multiple lines of evidence for the presence of quorum sensing inside the honey bee host. The effect of AI-2 on biofilm formation by honey bee specific bacteria identifies one potential avenue for quorum sensing to affect host health.
Analysis of life-cycle GHG emissions for iron ore mining and processing in China—Uncertainty and trends

Abstract Total iron ore demand in China grew to 1.1 billion tonnes in 2013 as a result of ongoing urbanization and massive infrastructure development. Iron ore and steel production are major sources for greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Since China has committed to lowering carbon intensity to meet climate change mitigation goals, detailed studies of the energy use and GHG emissions associated with iron ore mining and processing can aid in quantifying the impact and effectiveness of emissions reduction strategies. In this study, a life-cycle model for mining and processing of Chinese iron ores is developed and used to estimate GHG emissions. Results show that the mean life-cycle GHG emissions for Chinese iron ore production are 270 kg CO2e/tonne, with a 90% confidence interval ranging from 210 to 380 kg CO2e/tonne. The two largest contributors to overall GHG emissions are agglomeration (60%) and ore processing (23%). Iron content (ore grade) varies from 15% to 60% and is the largest contributor (40%) to the uncertainty of the results. Iron ore demand growth and the depletion of rich ore deposits will result in increased exploitation of lower grade ores with the concomitant increase in energy consumption and GHG emissions.
The Scholarship of Teaching and Learning: Changing the Dominant Narrative About (and In) Research Institutions:

Despite calls for and advances in the scholarship of teaching and learning (SOTL) over the years, research-intensive institutions have a persistent reputation as preferring and demanding Boyer’s “s...
Low voltage ultra-compact W-band Klystron

The SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory Technology Innovation Directorate is developing a 2 kW, 95 GHz ultra-compact continuous wave sheet beam klystron aiming to demonstrate 50% efficiency and weight of under 15 lbs. The design utilizes high current density cathodes, periodic cusped magnetic focusing for 99% beam transmission, and a multi-stage depressed collector to achieve device metrics. Beam stick construction is currently underway with operation slated to occur early in the year, the results of which will be used to validate beam transmission simulations. Construction of the interaction cavities is proceeding in parallel to ensure appropriate resolution and surface roughness is achieved.
Our Shared Forests: Ecuador and the Southeastern United States’ Migratory-Bird Partnership

This chapter addresses the benefits and need for school-community-nature-social connections, among countries, to help overcome serious nature-connection problems. It uses the Our Shared Forests case study to make these points. The Our Shared Forests program emphasizes ten birds “shared” between the southeastern USA and Ecuador. Learners in North and South America discover integrated social and environmental issues that affect these birds as they nest, feed, and live within forest habitats in two hemispheres. This chapter also examines the impact of service learning for global relationships. Students learn that shade-grown coffee and cacao production improve bird habitat in South America and participate in fundraising activities with fair-trade coffee. The idea of exchanging photographs and data about bird species with citizens in another country cannot be understated and is effective for enhancing learner understandings of place value within a larger global economy, community, and roles as citizens of planet Earth. The author envisions how students and informed environmental stewards might work with policy makers to recognize the value of education for global citizenship, for the continued well-being of our planet and health of the next seven generations.
GIBBERELLIN BIOSYNTHESIS IN ZEA MAYS: THE 3-HYDROXYLATION STEP GA20 TO GA1

Elongation growth in Zea mays (maize) is dependent on the presence of the gibberellin, GA 1 , which originates biosynthetically via an early-13-hydroxylation pathway. GA 1 is apparently the only biologically active gibberellin, per se, in this pathway. Other gibberellins in the pathway are active through their metabolism to GA 1 . The four gibberellin mutants of maize, d 5 , d 3 , d 2 and d 1 control specific and different steps in the pathway. The d 5 gene blocks an early step, CPP to ent -kaurene, the d 3 and d 2 genes control intermediate oxidation steps and the d 1 gene controls the terminal step, GA 20 to GA 1 . The data presented here show that 3-chloro-substitution of GA 20 resulted in the loss of activity when assayed on the d 5 mutant. At low levels no bioactivity was observed. At high levels (greater than 0.1 μg per plant) the bioactivity was 10% that of GA 1 . The bioassay data for 3-chloro-GA 20 support the position that hydroxylation at carbon-3 is necessary for the bioactivity of GA 20
From the Pharaohs to Freud: Psychoanalysis and the Magical Egyptian Tradition

If we find ourselves invited into the home of a new friend and left alone for 5 or 10 min, most of us I suspect would use the time to examine the books on the shelves. Such a surreptitious inspection will generally provide us with a sense as to our host’s interests, his tastes, and even his obsessions. Were our host Sigmund Freud, we might discover some surprises among his collection. There would be, for instance, a disproportionate number of books about ancient Egyptian history, art, and mythology. In fact, Freud amassed more books on ancient Egypt than any other subject apart from psychology and allied disciplines.
The Absence of Change in the Best-Selling Introductory Finance Textbook

This short paper examines the absence of change in the current best-selling introductory finance textbook, Ross, Westerfeld and Jordan’s Fundamentals of Corporate Finance. The first edition was published in 1991 and the current edition, the tenth, was published in 2012. We do not attempt an extensive review but instead investigate several topics that have seen a shift in belief due to recent events and research over the last 20 years. These topics include market efficiency, the distribution of stock returns and the capital asset pricing model. We find that in spite of all the recent events that have changed the way we view finance in the last 20 years, very little has changed in the textbook on these topics.
Histology of NeoMTA Plus and Quick-Set2 in Contact with Pulp and Periradicular Tissues in a Canine Model

Abstract Introduction NeoMTA Plus (Avalon Biomed Inc, Bradenton, FL) is a tricalcium silicate material similar to the first mineral trioxide aggregate product, ProRoot MTA (Dentsply Sirona, York, PA), but with improvements such as decreased setting time, increased ion release, increased water sorption, and nonstaining radiopacifiers. Quick-Set2 (Avalon Biomed Inc) is a newly formulated calcium aluminosilicate material that has a faster setting time and increased acid resistance and is nonstaining. The purpose of this study was to compare the healing of pulpal and periapical tissues in dogs after exposure to NeoMTA Plus and Quick-Set2 after pulpotomy and root-end surgery procedures. Methods Seventy-two teeth (36 for each procedure) in 6 beagle dogs received pulpotomy or root-end surgery using either NeoMTA Plus or Quick-Set2. The dogs were sacrificed at 90 days, and the teeth and surrounding tissues were prepared for histologic evaluation. Sixty teeth were evaluated and scored histologically (29 with pulpotomies and 31 with root-end resections). Specimens were scored for inflammation, quality and thickness of dentin bridging, pulp tissue response, cementum and periodontal ligament formation, and apical bone healing. Results Both materials displayed favorable healing at 90 days. The only significant difference was the quality of dentin bridge formation in pulpotomies using NeoMTA Plus compared with Quick-Set2. Conclusions Quick-Set2 and NeoMTA Plus had similar effects on inflammation, pulp response, periodontal ligament and cementum formation, and apical tissue healing in dogs. NeoMTA Plus had superior dentin bridge quality compared with Quick-Set2.
A DG Method for the Simulation of CO 2 Storage in Saline Aquifer

To simulate the process of CO2 injection into deep saline aquifers, we use the isothermal two-phase two-component model, which takes mass transfer into account. We develop a new discontinuous Galerkin method called the “partial upwind” method for space discretization, incorporated with the backward Euler scheme for time discretization and the Newton–Raphson method for linearization. Numerical simulations show that the new method is a promising candidate for the CO2 storage problem in both homogenous and heterogenous porous media and is more robust to the standard discontinuous Galerkin method for some subsurface fluid flow problems.
Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) in Traumatic Brain Injury-Related Mortality: Interrelationships Between Genetics and Acute Systemic and Central Nervous System BDNF Profiles.

Background. Older adults have higher mortality rates after severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) compared to younger adults. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signaling is altered in aging and is important to TBI given its role in neuronal survival/plasticity and autonomic function. Following experimental TBI, acute BDNF administration has not been efficacious. Clinically, genetic variation in BDNF (reduced signaling alleles: rs6265, Met-carriers; rs7124442, C-carriers) can be protective against acute mortality. Postacutely, these genotypes carry lower mortality risk in older adults and greater mortality risk among younger adults. Objective. Investigate BDNF levels in mortality/outcome following severe TBI in the context of age and genetic risk. Methods. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum BDNF were assessed prospectively during the first week following severe TBI (n = 203) and in controls (n = 10). Age, BDNF genotype, and BDNF levels were assessed as mortality/outcome predictors. Results. CSF BDNF l...
Destructive Single-Events and Latchup in Radiation-Hardened Switching Regulators

Single-event destructive behavior and latchup has been observed in two separate radiation-hardened switching regulators. We discuss the test conditions and observed results.
Tungstorhenate Heteropolyanions. 2. Synthesis and Characterization of Enneatungstorhenates(V), -(VI), and -(VII)

The tungstorhenate(V) heteropolyanion [W(9)ReO(32)](5)(-) has been isolated as guanidinium and cesium salts from reaction of [ReO(2)(PPh(3))(py)(3)](+) with sodium tungstate. Crystallographic analysis of black Cs(5)[W(9)ReO(32)].3H(2)O [triclinic, P1 or Po; a = 10.194(1), b = 11.503(2), c = 9.682(1) A; alpha = 100.55(1), beta = 115.81(1), gamma = 99.13(1) degrees; Z = 1], based on 3743 reflections, shows the anion to be isostructural with decatungstate, [W(10)O(32)](4)(-). Refinement in Po led to reliability indices R = 0.084, R(w) = 0.046. Electrochemical investigation revealed the existence of Re(VI) and Re(VII) analogues, which were hydrolytically unstable in aqueous solution but which were isolated as crystalline tetra-n-butylammonium and tetra-n-heptylammonium salts, respectively, from nonaqueous solvents. The tetra-n-butylammonium salts of [W(9)Re(VI)O(32)](4)(-) and [W(10)O(32)](4)(-) were shown to be isomorphous by X-ray powder diffraction. Simulation of the Q-band ESR spectrum of [W(9)Re(VI)O(32)](4)(-) (polycrystalline solid solution in [W(10)O(32)](4)(-)) gave g(x)() = 1.69(1), g(y)() = 1.66(1), g(z)() = 1.730(2) and 10(4)A(x)()((185,187)Re, I = (5)/(2)) = (-)252(10), 10(4)A(y)() = (-)398(10), 10(4)A(z)() = (-)653(5) cm(-)(1). The orthorhombic ESR spectrum proves that the Re atom occupies one of the eight equivalent "equatorial" sites in the decatungstate structure.
Can the International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia (ICTY) Šainović and Perišić Cases Be Reconciled

In the January 23, 2014 decision of Prosecutor v. Sainovic, the appeals chamber of the International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia (ICTY) upheld convictions of six defendants for crimes related to the 1999 ethnic cleansing of Kosovo by Serb forces. The defendants had held high-ranking positions within the army and government ranks; Sainovic himself was one of Milosevic’s closest and most trusted associates, the prime minister of Serbia and deputy prime minister of the Former Republic of Yugoslavia (FRY). This article examines the Sainovic decision within the context of ICTY jurisprudence on liability for aiding and abetting and for participating in a Joint Criminal Enterprise. In particular, Sainovic is distinguished from the aberrant decision of Perisic, in which the appeals chamber found that to establish liability for aiding and abetting, where the acts of the accused are remote from the principal crimes, the assistance must have been specifically directed to furthering the criminal activities. Without this “specific direction”, large-scale assistance to another army’s war efforts would be insufficient to establish individual criminal liability, even where the accused had knowledge of the crimes being perpetrated. The Sainovic appeals chamber, after undertaking extensive analysis of international jurisprudence and customary international law, rejected the Perisic approach as a divergence from the established standards for aiding and abetting liability recognized internationally. Contrary to the Perisic decision, Sainovic focused on the considerable cooperation between Serb forces operating outside and inside the FRY, and the shared common purpose of the defendants and those perpetrating the crimes. The Sainovic appeals chamber’s efforts to thoroughly examine and clarify the substantive law and create a comprehensive historical record are a welcome contribution to international criminal jurisprudence, and may serve as critically important guidance for future decisions of the ICTY and the International Criminal Court.
The effect of talc particles on phagocytes in co-culture with ovarian cancer cells.

Abstract Talc and titanium dioxide are naturally occurring water-insoluble mined products usually available in the form of particulate matter. This study was prompted by epidemiological observations suggesting that perineal use of talc powder is associated with increased risk of ovarian cancer, particularly in a milieu with higher estrogen. We aimed to test the effects of talc vs. control particles on the ability of prototypical macrophage cell lines to curb the growth of ovarian cancer cells in culture in the presence of estrogen. We found that murine ovarian surface epithelial cells (MOSEC), a prototype of certain forms of ovarian cancer, were present in larger numbers after co-culture with macrophages treated to a combination of talc and estradiol than to either agent alone or vehicle. Control particles (titanium dioxide, concentrated urban air particulates or diesel exhaust particles) did not have this effect. Co-exposure of macrophages to talc and estradiol has led to increased production of reactive oxygen species and changes in expression of macrophage genes pertinent in cancer development and immunosurveillance. These findings suggest that in vitro exposure to talc, particularly in a high-estrogen environment, may compromise immunosurveillance functions of macrophages and prompt further studies to elucidate this mechanism.
Coronavirus Disease 2019: A Gastroenterologist's Perspective in May 2020

We are in the middle of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic which has affected every aspect of human life all over the world. Although COVID-19 primarily affects the lungs, it is in fact a multisystem disorder causing high mortality and panicking the whole world. Gastrointestinal (GI) manifestations of this disorder usually accompany respiratory manifestations and this combination is indicative of the severity of the disease. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) RNA, which causes COVID-19, enters the body by attaching to angiotensin converting enzyme-2 receptors which are not only present in the respiratory tract but also in the GI tract. Person-to-person droplet transmission is the main mode of spread although there is potential for fecal-oral transmission. Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are not at increased risk of developing COVID-19 and they should continue to take their current medications. If they become positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA or COVID-19, their biologic therapy should be either delayed or on hold temporarily. GI endoscopy units are high-risk areas and GI procedures are high-risk procedures for the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Only emergency and semi-emergency procedures should be done, and elective procedures should be temporarily on hold until adequate resources are available. Endoscopists should use appropriate personal protective equipment. Mildly abnormal liver function tests (LFTs) are common in COVID-19 patients and are mostly due to systemic inflammatory response, hepatic ischemia or hepatotoxic medications. Close monitoring of liver function and supportive care of COVID-19 patients are recommended.
Patient-reported satisfaction and quality of life after trans male gender affirming surgery

Background: Trans male gender affirming surgery is becoming more available resulting in an increase in patients undergoing these procedures. There are few reports evaluating the outcomes of these p...
Changes in Statin Use Among U.S. Adults With Diabetes: A Population-Based Analysis of NHANES 2011–2018

OBJECTIVE To evaluate statin use in the U.S. before and after the 2015 American Diabetes Association position statement, which expanded statin therapy recommendations to include all adults 40–75 years old with diabetes. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey was used to obtain a representative sample. The difference-in-differences technique determined the impact of the recommendation on the proportion of people with diabetes for whom statin therapy was newly recommended. RESULTS Among people with diabetes, the change in statin use in people without atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk factors, controlling for change among people with ASCVD/risk factors, was 6.6% (P = 0.388). In the adjusted analysis, overt ASCVD, age, black race, health insurance, a place for routine care, and total cholesterol were significantly associated with statin use (P CONCLUSIONS The most recent change in statin recommendations had minimal impact on the proportion of patients receiving a statin.
Wildfire Spread Modeling with Aerial Image Processing

Currently, wildfire spread modeling has drawn a lot of attention from the research community since many countries are suffering from severe socioeconomic impacts of wildfires, every year. Fire spread modeling is a key requirement for effective fire management to deploy fire control equipment and forces at the right time and locations, and plan timely evacuations of residential areas. This paper proposes a new data-driven model for fire expansion which uses reference-based image segmentation for vegetation density estimation and incorporates it into the fire heat conduction modeling. Compared with the conventional parameter collection methods at fire scenes, our method relies on topview images taken by unmanned aerial vehicles, which provides significant advantages of flexibility, safety, low cost, and convenience. Our low-complexity and probabilistic model incorporates the terrain slope, vegetation density, and wind factors with adjustable model parameters which can be easily learned from experiments. The proposed model is flexible and applicable to forests with mixed vegetation and different geographical and climate conditions. We evaluate the fire propagation model by comparing the results with the propagation data available for California Rim fire in 2013.
TRENDS IN DATA WAREHOUSING TECHNIQUES

Financial data volumes are increasing, and this appears to be a long-term trend, implying that data management development will be crucial over the next few decades. Because financial data is sometimes real-time data, it is constantly generated, resulting in a massive amount of financial data produced in a short period of time. The volume, diversity, and velocity of Big Financial Data are highlighting the significant limitations of traditional Data Warehouses (DWs). Their rigid relational model, high scalability costs, and sometimes inefficient performance pave the way for new methods and technologies. The majority of the technologies used in background processing and storage research were previously the subject of research in their early stages. The Apache Foundation and Google are the two most important initiatives. For dealing with large financial data, three techniques outperform relational databases and traditional ETL processing: NoSQL and NewSQL storage, and MapReduce processing.
Pilus retraction powers bacterial twitching motility.

Twitching and social gliding motility allow many Gram negative bacteria to crawl along surfaces, and are implicated in a wide range of biological functions1. Type IV pili (Tfp) are required for twitching and social gliding, but the mechanism by which these filaments promote motility has remained enigmatic1,2,3,4. Here we use laser tweezers5 to show that Tfp forcefully retract. Neisseria gonorrhoeae cells that produce Tfp actively crawl on a glass surface and form adherent microcolonies. When laser tweezers are used to place and hold cells near a microcolony, retractile forces pull the cells toward the microcolony. In quantitative experiments, the Tfp of immobilized bacteria bind to latex beads and retract, pulling beads from the tweezers at forces that can exceed 80 pN. Episodes of retraction terminate with release or breakage of the Tfp tether. Both motility and retraction mediated by Tfp occur at about 1 µm s-1 and require protein synthesis and function of the PilT protein. Our experiments establish that Tfp filaments retract, generate substantial force and directly mediate cell movement.
An Analysis of IRAS Solar System Dust Bands

Measurements of longitudinal variations in the brightness and in the latitude of the solar system dust bands recently discovered by IRAS will determine the orbital elements of the particles involved and may discriminate between cometary and asteroidal models of the origin of these bands. The expected variations for bands of dust particles with common orbital elements and small eccentricity and inclination are calculated as functions of semimajor axis.
Visceral adipose tissue differences in black and white women

Fat distribution and metabolic variables were studied in 8 black and 10 white age- and weight-matched obese women undergoing a 6-mo weight-reducing regimen. Fat patterning was determined by using anthropometry and computed tomography to quantitate total, subcutaneous, and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) areas at the L2-L3 and L4-L5 levels of the lumbar spine, before, during, and after a modified fast. Black women had smaller depots of VAT than white women at both the L2-L3 (P = 0.004) and L4-L5 (P = 0.054) sites. Differences persisted after an average 17.2-kg weight loss. Although waist-hip ratio was similar in both groups, black women had 23% less VAT than white women (P = 0.007). Black women had significantly lower plasma glucose (P = 0.031) and triglycerides (P = 0.006) with significantly higher plasma high-density-lipoprotein concentrations (P < 0.001). Data from this study suggest that racial differences exist in VAT and metabolic risk factors for obesity-related illness.
A comparison of linear prediction, FFT, and zero-crossing analysis techniques for vowel recognition

Two popular methods of feature extraction which have been applied to automatic speech recognition are linear prediction and Fast Fourier Transform analysis. Recent work by the authors has indicated that zero-crossing analysis methods also have the potential to result in accurate speech recognition. In this paper two studies for determining the relative applicability of each of these three feature extraction methods for speech recognition are presented. One study is aimed at determining the relative discriminability of the methods for vowel recognition. The other study is aimed at determining the noise vulnerability of each method. Several Fast Fourier Transform and zero-crossing analysis algorithms perform well in the classification of vowels in a quiet environment. Exceptional classification results are obtained for several zero-crossing analysis algorithms applied to vowels in noise.
Parents’ Perceptions of the Usefulness of Chromosomal Microarray Analysis for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Clinical guidelines recommend chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) for all children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). We explored the test’s perceived usefulness among parents of children with ASD who had undergone CMA, and received a result categorized as pathogenic, variant of uncertain significance, or negative. Fifty-seven parents participated in a semi-structured telephone interview, and 50 also completed a survey. Most parents reported that CMA was helpful for their child and family. Major themes regarding perceived usefulness were: medical care, educational and behavioral interventions, causal explanation, information for family members, and advancing knowledge. Limits to utility, uncertainties and negative outcomes were also identified. Our findings highlight the importance of considering both health and non-health related utility in genomic testing.
Ethylene Films Adsorbed onto Purified HiPco Single Walled Carbon Nanotubes: A Comparison with Ethane and Longer Alkanes

The results of adsorption isotherm measurements for ethylene on purified HiPco SWNTs conducted at 11 different temperatures (between 110 K and 220 K) are reported, together with a comparison with the results we have obtained for ethane on the same substrate. Two groups of distinct binding sites were observed for ethylene on bundles of carbon nanotubes; this is in agreement with previously reported observations for ethane on this same sorbent. In addition, a consistent value of the specific surface area of the substrate was obtained from the ethylene and ethane data measured at approximately the same temperature. We have also determined the coverage dependence of the isosteric heat of adsorption for ethylene on the HiPco nanotube bundles. The reported experimental isosteric heat results are compared with simulation results for ethane and ethylene.
Cytotoxicity of metals, metal-metal and metal-chelator combinations assayed in vitro

A simple, rapid assay, based on the lysosomal incorporation of neutral red by cells, conveniently carried out in 96-well microtiter plates, was used to evaluate the cytotoxic effect of cationic and anionic metal salts on BALB/c mouse 3T3 fibroblasts. Ranking of the metals according to their decreasing potency was based on spectrophotometrically determined absorbance of the neutral red, extracted from surviving viable cells. The rank order was Cd greater than Hg greater than Ag greater than Zn greater than Mn greater than Cu greater than Co greater than Ni greater than Cr(III) for the cationic metals and Cr2O7 greater than CrO4 greater than AsO2 greater than AsO4 greater than SeO3 greater than SeO4 greater than MnO4 for the anionic metals tested. Cationic metals incubated with cultures in medium containing 1% fetal bovine serum (FBS) were 3-4 times more toxic than in medium with 10% FBS. Cadmium served as a representative metal for the use of this assay not only for concentration, but also for time dependent exposures. Thus a 10% cytotoxic effect after 1 h of incubation with 60 microM cadmium was increased to 90% after 6 h. Examination of the effect of metal-metal interaction on cytotoxicity showed a marked reduction of cadmium toxicity by zinc and to a lesser degree, by nickel. The neutral red assay was also effectively used to investigate the effect of the chelators ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA) and 2,3-dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) on cadmium-induced injury. Cytotoxicity by cadmium was completely inhibited by EDTA, and partially by NTA, but DMSA was ineffective. Reduction of copper toxicity by chelation was less efficient than for cadmium. Use of a chelator as therapy against metal poisoning was only partially effective and limited to administration within 2 h after incubation of cells with cadmium. It is believed that the neutral red assay can be a valuable tool for the screening of cytotoxic and potentially therapeutic agents under controlled in vitro conditions.
Expansion of Exchange Monitoring Trust Levels in Ongoing Exchange Relations

Three experiments employed procedures which allowed trust levels to be continuously monitored during ongoing two-party exchange. Level of trust was behaviorally defined by degree of "expansion" of ...
Design limits of compressible NLF airfoils

There has been considerable success in the design of practical low-speed natural laminar flow (NLF) airfoils, with significant profile drag reduction from conventional turbulent flow airfoils. The favorable lowspeed results give an incentive to explore the possibilities of high-subsonic speed NLF airfoil design. The design problem at higher freestream Mach numbers is more severe than for low-speed designs because these high-speed airplanes typically fly at higher chord Reynolds numbers than low-speed NLF airplanes. As the Mach number increases, the main priority changes from the use of sufficient acceleration to achieve NLF for low-drag, to the delay of separation in the far aft pressure recovery region. In this effort, NLF airfoils have been designed for Mach numbers ranging from 0.60 to 0.80 and chord Reynolds numbers of 30 x 10 to the 6th and 40 x 10 to the 6th.
Moving beyond the subset model of realization: The problem of qualitative distinctness in the metaphysics of science

Understanding the ‘making-up’ relations, to put things neutrally, posited in mechanistic explanations the sciences is finally an explicit topic of debate amongst philosophers of science. In particular, there is now lively debate over the nature of the so-called ‘realization’ relations between properties posited in such explanations. Despite criticism (Gillett, Analysis 62:316–323, 2002a), the most common approach continues to be that of applying machinery developed in the philosophy of mind to scientific concepts in what is known as the ‘Flat’ or ‘Subset’ model of ‘realization’ (Kim, Mind in a physical world, 1998; Shapiro, J Philos XCVII:635–654, 2000; Clapp, J Philos XCVIII:111–136, 2001; Wilson, Philos Stud 145:149–169, 2009). My primary goal in this paper is to show in still more detail that the Subset model of realization is inadequate for the descriptive task of describing the ‘making-up’ relations posited between properties or their instances in mechanistic explanations in the higher sciences. And my secondary goal is to highlight why this critique of the Subset view as a first-order descriptive account also shows there are deep difficulties in using the Subset account to address second-order issues in the philosophy of science as well.
"Go with the flow": how Krüppel-like factor 2 regulates the vasoprotective effects of shear stress.

Abstract Laminar shear stress is known to confer potent anti-inflammatory, antithrombotic, and antiadhesive effects by differentially regulating endothelial gene expression. The identification of Kruppel-like factor 2 as a flow-responsive molecule has greatly advanced our understanding of molecular mechanisms governing vascular homeostasis. This review summarizes the current understanding of Kruppel-like factor 2 action in endothelial gene expression and function. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 15, 1449–1461.
Theoretical studies of mechanisms and kinetic isotope effects on the decarboxylation of orotic acid and derivatives.

The mechanism of orotidine 5‘-monophosphate decarboxylase was studied computationally by using the decarboxylation of orotic acid analogues as model systems. These calculations indicate that mechanisms involving proton transfer to the 2-oxygen or the 4-oxygen are energetically favorable, as compared to direct decarboxylation without proton transfer, for a series of model compounds where N1 is substituted with respectively H, CH3, and a tetrahydrofuran moiety. Proton transfer to the 4-oxygen during decarboxylation is found to be energetically more favorable than 2-protonation, which is attributable to both the 4-oxygen site being more basic and an apparent intrinsic preference for the 4-protonation pathway. 15N isotope effect calculations were also conducted, and compared to experimental 15N isotope effects previously measured at N1 by Rishavy and Cleland (Biochemistry 2000, 39, 4569−4574). The theoretical isotope effects establish, for the first time, that the experimental 15N isotope effect is consistent...
Randomized, controlled, double-blind, multicenter comparison of the cognitive effects of ziprasidone versus olanzapine in acutely ill inpatients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder

Newer antipsychotic medications have been reported to enhance cognitive functioning in schizophrenia. Head to head studies with double-blind methods are still relatively few in number. To compare the relative cognitive enhancing effects of ziprasidone and olanzapine in the treatment of acutely ill inpatients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder. In this 6-week, multicenter, double-blind, parallel-designed trial, patients were randomized to ziprasidone or olanzapine. No patient who had ever received a complete treatment trial with either of these medications previously was entered into the study. Cognitive testing measuring attention, motor speed, memory, executive functioning, and verbal skills were performed on all patients at baseline and endpoint. Treatment with either ziprasidone or olanzapine was associated with statistically significant improvements from baseline in attention, memory, working memory, motor speed, and executive functions. Treatment with olanzapine was also associated with a statistically significant improvement in verbal fluency. No statistically significant differences between these medications were found in the magnitude of improvement from baseline on any of the cognitive measures (other than verbal fluency in an exploratory analysis). Observed changes were not associated with changes in clinical symptoms measured using the PANSS or changes in movement disorders. During 6 weeks of treatment, ziprasidone and olanzapine demonstrated substantial and comparable cognitive-enhancing effects relative to previous treatment. These effects were noted in all aspects of cognitive functioning previously proven to predict functional outcome in schizophrenia. No overall differences were detected between the medications in terms of the extent of cognitive enhancement.
The role of local wintertime atmospheric heat flux in determining springtime temperature variability in the northern Middle Atlantic Bight during 1965–1973

Abstract This project examines the role of local atmospheric forcing during the transition from relatively cold wintertime to relatively warmer springtime temperatures in the northern Middle Atlantic Bight (MAB) region during 1965–1973. A one-dimensional water column model is run for eight consecutive winter seasons with local surface heat flux used as the only external forcing. Historical data from the Nantucket Light Ship, along with modeled radiation estimates for New York and Boston are used for the heat flux calculations. Two model simulations were made for each winter season, allowing for both a qualitative and quantitative comparison of model output with observed regional temperature variability and with observed temperature changes measured at Nantucket Lightship (NLS). Interannual variability (IAV) in local atmospheric heat flux during wintertime is shown to be a dominant factor in determining springtime temperature conditions during the study period. However, the residuals from a regression analysis suggest that advective processes may have contributed to the observed temperature variability, although it is believed that the advective influence is secondary to local surface heat flux in the northern MAB for this study period.
Influence of protein supplementation of alkaline hydrogen peroxide-treated wheat straw on ruminal microbial fermentation.

Abstract A dual flow continuous culture system was used to determine the effects of four protein sources (soybean meal, Ca-lignosulfonate treated-soybean meal, blood meal, and feather meal), supplied individually or in combination in diets composed predominantly of alkaline hydrogen peroxide-treated wheat straw, on ruminal microbial fermentation and amino acid flow. Diets containing blood meal had lower organic matter and fiber digestion, NH 3 N and VFA concentrations, and CP degradation but higher non-NH 3 N, dietary N, total amino acid, and essential amino acid flows. Feather meal fed alone or combined with other sources was not different from the blood meal diet in organic matter and fiber digestion. Combining treated soybean meal and blood meal resulted in similar organic matter and fiber digestibilities compared with the soybean meal diets. This combination was similar to the treated soybean meal diet in VFA concentration, non-NH 3 N, and essential and total amino acid flows; however, amino acid profile was different with this combination, showing higher histidine and leucine flows. Results from this study suggest that amino acid profiles of digesta leaving the rume may be manipulated by choice of protein supplement when diets containing a low protein, highly fermentable feedstuff such as alkaline hydrogen peroxide-treated wheat straw are fed.