cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Molecular basis for self-assembly of a human host-defense peptide that entraps bacterial pathogens.

Human α-defensin 6 (HD6) is a 32-aa cysteine-rich peptide of the innate immune system. Although HD6 is a member of an antimicrobial peptide family, it exhibits negligible antibacterial activity in vitro. Rather, HD6 possesses a unique innate immune mechanism whereby it self-assembles into oligomers that capture pathogens to prevent microbial invasion of the intestinal epithelium and subsequent dissemination. Molecular-level understanding for why HD6 functions differently from other human defensins remains unclear. To further elucidate the HD6 self-assembly process and its biological activity, we developed robust protocols for obtaining native and mutant HD6 in high purity from overexpression in Escherichia coli. We combined biophysical characterization with biological assays to probe HD6 structure and function. We report that native HD6 readily self-assembles into elongated fibrils observable by transmission electron microscopy, agglutinates both Gram-negative and -positive bacteria, and prevents the huma...
The function of menstrual taboos among the dogon - Defense against Cuckoldry?

Menstrual taboos are nearly ubiquitous and assume parallel forms in geographically distant populations, yet their function has baffled researchers for decades. This paper proposes that menstrual taboos are anticuckoldry tactics. By signaling menstruation, they may advertise female reproductive status to husbands, affines, and other observers. Females may therefore have difficulty in obfuscating the timing of the onset of pregnancy. This may have three consequences: (a) males are better able to assess their probabilities of paternity and to direct their parental investment toward genetic offspring; (b) adulterous pregnancies are more easily detected and penalized, enhancing sexual fidelity; and (c) males avoid marrying pregnant females by relying on menstruation as evidence of nonpregnancy. This hypothesis is tested with 29 months of field data on menstrual taboos among the Dogon of Mali. Key results include the following: (a) cuckoldry is a major Dogon concern, (b) menstrual huts advertise female reproductive status, (c) husbands impose the taboos upon their wives, (d) female defiance of the taboos is undetectable and probably rare, and (e) informants think that the taboos help husbands and patrilineages to avoid cuckoldry. Thus the anti-cuckoldry hypothesis provides helpful insight into the menstrual taboos of the Dogon and should be tested among other populations.
Test and Analysis on Fast Finite Element Calculation in Strip Rolling

To provide guidance on the actual production monitoring,the Intel Vtune Analyzers is adopted to the test and analysis on fast finite element calculation in strip rolling,and the key factors influencing computing speed are discussed.The results show that the FFE takes on good parallel performance.The most time-consuming subroutines are the Hession matrix,the plastic deformation power and friction deformation power.Increasing the number of CPU's nuclear can help us reduce the computing time.The most time-consuming system functions should be decrease the calling number to reduce the time loss.
Proinsulin mRNA levels in fasting and fed ADX rats: evidence for an indirect effect of glucocorticoids

To determine whether glucocorticoids are required to maintain pancreatic proinsulin mRNA levels during dietary manipulation, rats were adrenalectomized (ADX) or sham operated (SO) and subsequently fasted or pair fed for 2 days. Proinsulin mRNA concentrations were 54 +/- 8% lower (P less than 0.05) in fed ADX rats and 47 +/- 10% lower (P less than 0.01) in fasted ADX rats relative to values in fed and fasted SO rats, respectively. When ADX rats were fasted for 24 h and either refed 20% sucrose for 30 h or injected with dexamethasone (DEX) 0.125 mg/kg ip every 12 h for three doses, circulating plasma glucose levels were restored and pancreatic proinsulin mRNA concentrations rose 3.3 and 2.7-fold, respectively (each P less than 0.05). Plasma glucose and proinsulin mRNA levels (n = 40) were correlated (r = 0.58, P less than 0.0001). We conclude that the regulation of proinsulin mRNA concentration does not absolutely require endogenous glucocorticoids, since either adequate sucrose intake in ADX rats or physiological glucocorticoid responses in fasted rats suffice to restore pancreatic mRNA concentrations. It appears that glucocorticoid stimulation of pancreatic proinsulin mRNA levels is mediated indirectly through its regulation of glucose metabolism.
Scalable and energy-efficient AWGR-based computing node: Performance under PARSEC benchmark workload

We propose a scalable multi-board HPC blade architecture with optical interconnection based on wavelength routing in Arrayed Waveguide Grating Routers (AWGRs). Benchmarking simulations show reductions up to 2× in energy consumption and 3× in execution time.
Broader and Earlier Access to Machine Learning

This poster presents the results of an ongoing project that has developed learning modules to provide access to the tools and techniques associated with machine learning to a broad category of undergraduate students. The changing nature of science and its reliance on massive data sets has led to the integral use of machine learning approaches in just about every discipline. Recognizing this shift, flexible teaching materials have been developed to provide educators and students in a wide variety of academic fields with relevant machine learning topics and discipline-ready activities. Goals, module design, example material, dissemination plans and evidence of student learning are presented.
A Combination of Algebraic and Geometric Methods for Interface Capturing in Free Surface Flow

Eulerian techniques for multiphase analysis of free surface flow use a phase fraction to track the volumetric amount of air and water in discrete computational cells. There is no explicit model for the free surface, but its location is implied by the phase fraction field. The effect of the free surface on the flow solution depends on a process known as interface capturing, which is used to solve an advection equation for the phase fraction. This equation can be solved using algebraic methods that are similar to those used for other advection problems, but numerical diffusion is a common difficulty. It destroys the sharpness of the transition in the phase fraction field across the air-water interface. Geometric reconstruction of the interface can be used to mitigate diffusion, but it is difficult to implement with most types of grids due to the complexity of finding intersections among discrete interfacial elements and the faces of computational cells. A new method is proposed in this work that is based on a combination of algebraic and geometric methods. The goal is to preserve the attractive aspects of each while avoiding the less attractive aspects. For example, the new method uses geometric bounds on interface position as a means of mitigating diffusion, but it does so without reconstructing the interface. This makes it relatively simple. A new time integration technique is also presented. It uses subcycles based on a time step limiter to facilitate rigorous mass conservation in multidimensional flow, in contrast to existing methods that are based on one-dimensional phase fraction limiters. Numerical convergence is assessed, and a finite difference flow solver is used to demonstrate the method for a variety of test cases.
The Legal Obligations of Genetic Counselors

Four years ago, at the First National Symposium on Genetics and the Law, Dr. Kurt Hirschhorn, asked to comment on a topic similar to mine, pointed out his discomfort in complying with the request: When I was asked to prepare a paper on potential situat:ons in genetic counseling which may result in questions of malpractice, I felt like a little like the unarmed Christian Martyr who was told to enter the Roman Arena in order to fight a group of lions with large teeth. The current attitudes in the United States encouraging such suits while reducing protection make me quite hesitant to engage in an exercise designed to sharpen those teeth.1 Dr. Hirschhorn was reflecting the sense of frustration, bewilderment, and anger that many genetic counselors feel about their vulnerability to legal liability and their uncertainty about what society expects of them.
Do Indonesian Children’s Experiences with Large Currency Units Facilitate Magnitude Estimation of Long Temporal Periods?

Ideas about temporal (and spatial) scale impact students’ understanding across science disciplines. Learners have difficulty comprehending the long time periods associated with natural processes because they have no referent for the magnitudes involved. When people have a good “feel” for quantity, they estimate cardinal number magnitude linearly. Magnitude estimation errors can be explained by confusion about the structure of the decimal number system, particularly in terms of how powers of ten are related to one another. Indonesian children regularly use large currency units. This study investigated if they estimate long time periods accurately and if they estimate those time periods the same way they estimate analogous currency units. Thirty-nine children from a private International Baccalaureate school estimated temporal magnitudes up to 10,000,000,000 years in a two-part study. Artifacts children created were compared to theoretical model predictions previously used in number magnitude estimation studies as reported by Landy et al. (Cognitive Science 37:775–799, 2013). Over one third estimated the magnitude of time periods up to 10,000,000,000 years linearly, exceeding what would be expected based upon prior research with children this age who lack daily experience with large quantities. About half treated successive powers of ten as a count sequence instead of multiplicatively related when estimating magnitudes of time periods. Children generally estimated the magnitudes of long time periods and familiar, analogous currency units the same way. Implications for ways to improve the teaching and learning of this crosscutting concept/overarching idea are discussed.
Reshaping the Non-Aligned Movement: challenges and vision

With the end of the Cold War, the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) has lost its relevance and significance. Many believed that the international system was moving towards a permanent unipolar new world order. The last decade, however, witnessed the emergence of new power-centers with the ability to restructure the world into several blocs. Now, some believe in a Second Cold War. Despite these changes, several common challenges faced by societies of the Global South remain and new challenges have emerged. The Global South does not have to reinvent the wheel to effectively deal with the new global realities and challenges. The institutional framework, the NAM is still functioning. It, however, needs to be reshaped and reenergized. This paper is written with secondary data. First, the paper surveys the theoretical and practical problems faced by NAM. Second, it explores the possibility of reshaping and transforming NAM into a robust, unifying institution.
Mallory Weiss syndrome is not associated with hiatal hernia: a matched case–control study

AbstractBackground/objective: Hiatal hernia is considered to be a predisposing factor to develop Mallory-Weiss Syndrome (MWS). No large case–control studies verifying this hypothesis have been conducted.Methods: We reviewed all esophagogastroduodenoscopies with findings of MWS (n = 2342) in a national database and compared with age and gender-matched controls (n = 9368). Demographics, endoscopic characteristics and presence of a hiatal hernia were compared between both groups. Average age was 56.7 ± 18.6 years, and 72.4% were male.Results: Hiatal hernia was more common in controls, and no significant difference was seen in a multivariate analysis.Conclusion: Dynamic changes inducing mucosal tension are more relevant determinants to develop MWS than gastro-esophageal junction location alone.
Phonon dynamics.

Abstract An atomic lattice in its ground state is excited by the rapid displacement and release of an atomic constituent. The time dependence of the energy transfer to other constituents is studied by using a phonon dispersion relation that is linear in frequency and propagation vector components.
Phosphatidylethanol Detects Moderate-to-Heavy Alcohol Use in Liver Transplant Recipients

Background Alcohol dependent liver transplantation (LT) patients who resume alcohol are at risk for a number of alcohol related problems including liver injury and liver failure. Post LT patients are strongly advised to remain abstinent. However, we don't know how well this population complies due to a lack of valid methods (self-report and/or biomarkers) to identify alcohol use. Studies suggest as many as 50% resume alcohol use within 5 years. Phosphatidylethanol (PEth) is a new cell-membrane phospholipid biomarker to identify alcohol use in the past 28 days. This prospective study followed 213 LT recipients at two US liver transplant centers. Methods Sample included 213 LT subjects. 70.9% (n=151/213) had a history of alcohol dependence prior to transplantation and 29.1% (n=62/213) served as non-alcohol dependent controls. Subjects participated in face-to-face interviews to assess alcohol use using a 30-day calendar. The protocol called for collecting blood samples at baseline, 6- and 12-month follow-up. Results 70% (149/213) who reported no alcohol use had consistently negative PEth levels ( 8 ng/ml either at baseline and/or during the follow-up period. 23.8% (n=36/151) alcohol-dependent subjects and 16.1% (n=10/62) controls reported no alcohol use but had at least one positive PEth test. Of the 11.2% (24/213) post LT subjects who reported recent alcohol use over half (11/24) had a positive PEth. The 13 self-reported alcohol users with a negative PEth level reported insufficient drinking to trigger PEth formation. Conclusions Adoption of PEth as part of routine post-transplant care of LT recipients will enable early identification of patients at risk of alcohol use and facilitate abstinence in patients with a history of alcohol dependence and alcohol related liver damage. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Isolated mild sleep-associated hypoventilation in children with Down syndrome.

Introduction Children with Down syndrome (DS) have a high incidence of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) that is often associated with hypoventilation. Little is known, however, about the prevalence of sleep-associated hypoventilation independent of OSA in these children. Methods Retrospective chart review of all children with DS under 18 years of age undergoing polysomnography at a tertiary care paediatric hospital during a 2-year period. Exclusion criteria were as follow: those requiring oxygen or positive-pressure ventilation; with tracheostomy, baseline hypoxia, unrepaired cyanotic heart disease, pulmonary hypertension, and cerebral palsy; or OSA with >5 obstructions/hour. Results 86 children met inclusion criteria. 68 (79%) had ETCO 2 values >50 mm Hg during sleep. 37 (43%) ranged 50–55 mm Hg, and 12 (14%) met American Academy of Sleep Medicine criteria for hypoventilation of ETCO 2 >50 mm Hg for >25% of total sleep time (TST). Average pulse-oximetry saturation (SpO 2 ) values during sleep were 97.8% (SD ±1; range: 95.1–99.9). Average percentage of TST with SpO 2 >92% was 99.89%. Conclusion Mildly elevated ETCO 2 in the absence of OSA is common in children with DS. This may reflect underlying differences in autonomic control of ventilation in these children and may be considered a normal variant not necessitating intervention other than close monitoring for pulmonary hypertension.
Higher cluster categories and QFT dualities

We introduce a unified mathematical framework that elegantly describes minimally supersymmetry gauge theories in even dimensions, ranging from six dimensions to zero dimensions, and their dualities. This approach combines and extends recent developments on graded quivers with potentials, higher Ginzburg algebras, and higher cluster categories (also known as $m$-cluster categories). Quiver mutations studied in the context of mathematics precisely correspond to the order-($m+1$) dualities of the gauge theories. Our work indicates that these equivalences of quiver gauge theories sit inside an infinite family of such generalized dualities.
Origin of the unusually strong and selective binding of vanadium by polyamidoximes in seawater

Amidoxime-functionalized polymeric adsorbents are the current state-of-the-art materials for collecting uranium (U) from seawater. However, marine tests show that vanadium (V) is preferentially extracted over U and many other cations. Herein, we report a complementary and comprehensive investigation integrating ab initio simulations with thermochemical titrations and XAFS spectroscopy to understand the unusually strong and selective binding of V by polyamidoximes. While the open-chain amidoxime functionalities do not bind V, the cyclic imide-dioxime group of the adsorbent forms a peculiar non-oxido V5+ complex, exhibiting the highest stability constant value ever observed for the V5+ species. XAFS analysis of adsorbents following deployment in environmental seawater confirms V binding solely by the imide-dioximes. Our fundamental findings offer not only guidance for future optimization of selectivity in amidoxime-based sorbent materials, but may also afford insight to understanding the extensive accumulation of V in some marine organisms.
Enhanced tunability of magneto-impedance and magneto-capacitance in annealed Metglas/PZT magnetoelectric composites

This report is on a new class of magnetostatically tunable magneto-impedance and magneto-capacitance devices based on a composite of ferromagnetic Metglas and ferroelectric lead zirconate titanate (PZT). Layered magneto-electric (ME) composites with annealed Metglas and PZT were studied in a longitudinal in-plane magnetic field-transverse electric field (L-T) mode. It was found that the degree of tunability was dependent on the annealing temperature of Metglas. An impedance tunability (ΔZ/Z0) of ≥400% was obtained at the electromechanical resonance (EMR) frequency (fr) for a sample with Metglas layers annealed at Ta = 500oC. This tunability is a factor of two higher than for composites with Metglas annealed at 350oC. The tunability of the capacitance, (ΔC/C0), was found to be 290% and -135k% at resonance and antiresonance, respectively, for Ta = 500oC. These results provide clear evidence for improvement in static magnetic field tunability of impedance and capacitance of ME composites with the use of anne...
Informal Lending and Entrepreneurship

How does the informal economy affect financial inclusion and entrepreneurial activity of consumers? We investigate the impact of informal lending on the types and terms of contracts offered by formal lenders, considering factors that facilitate informal lending activity such as social ties between consumers. The density of the connections between consumers represents the degree to which those with and without wealth mix, indirectly capturing the degree of inequality in a society. We develop a model which relates the density of social connections to the availability of informal lending activity. We show that a low to moderate degree of informal activity in a market can help unwealthy entrepreneurs because it motivates the bank to compete by cutting down the interest rate of unsecured loans offered to these consumers. In turn, the bank faces an overinvestment problem when financial inclusion is higher. As informal borrowing opportunities increase further, lenders’ benefit from increased access to credit diminishes. It earns higher rents by increasing the rates on wealthy low-risk consumers who can informally lend to their social contacts. As a consequence, the overinvestment problem is replaced by an underinvestment problem and creditworthy entrepreneurs are deprived of loans from banks. We argue that although the entrepreneurial investment shrinks, only those projects with the best return are awarded financing, implying that the average investment in the market is now more attractive.
Improving Analytical Characterization of Glycoconjugate Vaccines through Combined High-Resolution MS and NMR: Application to Neisseria meningitidis Serogroup B Oligosaccharide-Peptide Glycoconjugates.

Conjugate vaccines are highly heterogeneous in terms of glycosylation sites and linked oligosaccharide length. Therefore, the characterization of conjugate vaccines’ glycosylation state is challenging. However, improved product characterization can lead to enhancements in product control and product quality. Here, we present a synergistic combination of high-resolution mass spectrometry (MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) for the analysis of glycoconjugates. We use the power of this strategy to characterize model polysaccharide conjugates and to demonstrate a detailed level of glycoproteomic analysis. These are first steps on model compounds that will help untangle the details of complex product characterization in conjugate vaccines. Ultimately, this strategy can be applied to enhance the characterization of polysaccharide conjugate vaccines. In this study, we lay the groundwork for the analysis of conjugate vaccines. To begin this effort, oligosaccharide–peptide conjugates were synthe...
Growth trajectories and oxygen use in neuroendocrine cell hyperplasia of infancy.

Rationale Neuroendocrine cell hyperplasia of infancy (NEHI) typically presents in infancy with tachypnea, retractions, and hypoxemia. Some infants have failure to thrive, yet the frequency of this and other non-respiratory phenotypic features have not been delineated. While gradual improvement occurs, the clinical course is variable and the duration of supplemental oxygen requirement has not been defined. Objectives Our objective was to identify factors in NEHI that may drive differences in clinical course. We hypothesized that failure to thrive would be associated with greater duration of supplemental oxygen use. Methods Children with NEHI were identified as a nested retrospective cohort within an ongoing observational prospective study. An electronic questionnaire evaluating health status was distributed to the parents/guardians. Clinical data were obtained via chart review and parent interview. Results Of 42 children, 74% had a diagnosis of failure to thrive during their clinical course. Time to event analysis demonstrated that 50% discontinued daytime and nighttime oxygen at 32 and 87.5 months after initiation, respectively. Diagnosis of failure to thrive was associated with longer continuous oxygen supplementation, P = 0.03. Additional parental concerns identified through the electronic questionnaire included developmental delays, multiple hospitalizations, and delays in diagnosis. Conclusions NEHI is associated with substantial respiratory and extra-pulmonary morbidity. Failure to thrive may be associated with greater respiratory morbidity, though further studies are required to define this interaction. Determining the association of these comorbidities and respiratory course in NEHI may enable development of strategies to improve these modifiable factors and potentially pulmonary outcomes.
Evaluating User Behaviour as They Create Mappings in a Web Development System Using Local Radiance.

Information integration with local radiance (IILR) is a system designed for use in web development frameworks that allows for the creation of polymorphic widgets based on small schema fragments and mappings to local schema that allow non-expert users to instantiate these widgets in their site. Here, we present results of a user study using IILR. We show that non-expert users can, and for the most part enjoy, creating the mappings required for our system. We describe the different behaviors observed of our participants and relate these behaviors to the survey data from our users.
Health conditions, functional status and health care utilization in adults with cerebral palsy.

Aim Health conditions in children with cerebral palsy (CP) are well described, yet health is less defined with advancing age. We examined health conditions, functional status and health care utilization in adults with CP across age groups. Methods We collected cross-sectional data on health conditions, functional status and utilization from the medical records of adults with CP across a large university-affiliated primary care network using the Rochester Health Status Survey IV (RHSS-IV), a 58-item validated survey. Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and National Health Interview Survey provided prevalence estimates for the general population as comparison. Results Compared to the general population, adults with CP had higher rates of seizure disorder, obesity and asthma across all ages. Adults with CP under 30 years of age had higher rates of hypertension (16.7 versus 5.6%; P = 0.04), urinary incontinence (41.7 versus 10.5%; P < 0.001) and depression (16.7 versus 6.9%; P = 0.07). Conversely, there were lower rates of alcohol misuse, tobacco/nicotine and sexually transmitted illnesses. Independence with all activities of daily living decreased from 37.5% at 18-29 years of age to 22.5% in those 60 and over. Seizure disorders, urinary incontinence and gastroesophageal reflux disease were all independently associated with lower functional status. As expected, health care utilization increased with advancing age. Conclusions Adults with CP should be monitored for conditions occurring at higher prevalence in CP, as well as common conditions occurring with advancing age. Age-related functional decline should be anticipated, especially with coexisting seizure disorders and urinary incontinence.
A Retrospective Chart Review of Children with ASD’s Individual Education Plans Compared to Subsequent Independent Psychological Evaluations

The heterogeneity of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) makes it difficult for school-based professionals to develop effective Individual Education Plans (IEP) for this group. Limited research exists on the quality of IEP programs for individuals with ASD. This article summarizes the results of a retrospective chart review from an outpatient diagnostic center. Researchers collected data from IEPs and subsequent psychological evaluations of 75 individuals diagnosed with ASD. The implications of these results for future research and practice are discussed.
Pre-Operative Management of Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome

The goal of pre-operative management of the neonate with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) is to deliver an infant to the operating room with good cardiac output, no abnormalities of end organ function, and balanced pulmonary and systemic blood flow. Some newborns will require resuscitation after presenting in shock, others may require medical interventions to avoid hemodynamically significant pulmonary overcirculation, and rarely some may require urgent interventions to increase pulmonary blood flow by decompressing a restrictive atrial septal defect.
Parsing and Grammar Description, Corpus-Based

English teachers and textbook authors often rely on their intuitions to choose the most important words and grammatical structures to focus on. For example, many English-language professionals believe that progressive aspect verbs (or ‘the present continuous,’ e.g., is working) are much more common in conversation than simple aspect verbs (e.g., works). As a result, the teaching of progressive aspect has often been emphasized at the expense of simple aspect. However, empirical corpus studies show that such intuitions about language use are often incorrect. This article introduces corpus analyses of grammar, illustrating the surprising research findings that result from this approach.
Filling the Gaps in Keyword-Based Query Expansion for Geodata Retrieval

Query expansion describes the automated process of supplementing a user’s search with additional terms or geographic locations to make it more appropriate for the user’s needs. Such process relies on the system’s knowledge about the relation between geographic terms and places. Geodata repositories host spatial data, which can be queried over their metadata, such as keywords. One way to organize the system’s knowledge structure for keyword-based query expansion is to use a similarity network. In a complete similarity network the total number of similarity values between keyterms increases with the square of included keywords. Thus, the task of determining all these values becomes time consuming very quickly. One efficient method is to start with a sparse similarity network, and automatically estimate missing similarity values from other values with an algorithm. Hence, this paper introduces and evaluates four such algorithms.
Static Kinks or Flexible Hinges: Conformational Distributions of Bent DNA Bound to Integration Host Factor Mapped by Fluorescence Lifetime Measurements

Gene regulation depends on proteins that bind to specific DNA sites. Such specific recognition often involves severe DNA deformations including sharp kinks. It has been unclear how rigid or flexible these protein-induced kinks are. Here, we investigated the dynamic nature of DNA in complex with integration host factor (IHF), a nucleoid-associated architectural protein known to bend one of its cognate sites (35 base pair H') into a U-turn by kinking DNA at two sites. We utilized fluorescence lifetime based FRET spectroscopy to map the distribution of bent conformations in various IHF-DNA complexes. Our results reveal a surprisingly dynamic specific complex: while 80% of the IHF-H' population exhibited FRET consistent with the crystal structure, 20% exhibited FRET indicative of unbent or partially bent DNA. This conformational flexibility is modulated by sequence variations in the cognate site. In another site (H1) that lacks an A-tract of H' on one side of the binding site, the population in the fully bent conformation decreased to 36%, as did the extent of bending. A similar decrease in the fully bent population was observed with a single base mutation in H' in a consensus region on the other side. Taken together, these results provide important insights into the finely tuned interactions between IHF and its cognate sites that keep the DNA bent (or not), and yield quantitative data on the dynamic equilibrium between different DNA conformations (kinked or not kinked) that depend sensitively on DNA sequence and deformability. The difference in dynamics reflects the different roles of the IHF-H' and IHF-H1 complexes in their natural context, in the phage lambda "intasome" (the complex that integrates phage lambda into the E. coli chromosome).
Promoting low-income preschoolers’ school readiness through a text messaging intervention

ABSTRACTThe aim of the study is to evaluate the effects of a language-rich math content text message intervention as a way to promote child literacy outcomes for children enrolled in 15 Head Start ...
Recombination coefficients for Cl on plasma-conditioned yttrium oxide chamber wall surfaces

Studies of power-modulated chlorine inductively coupled plasmas (ICPs) bounded by yttria-coated chamber walls are presented. Time-resolved optical emissions from Cl and Xe actinometry trace gas were recorded over the 740–920 nm region as power at 13.56 MHz was modulated between high power and no power. The intensity ratio of Cl-to-Xe emission, proportional to Cl number density, nCl, followed the modulation in power, allowing Cl heterogeneous loss coefficients, γCl, to be obtained from a simple time-resolved, 0-dimensional model of the afterglow period that best matched computed relative changes in nCl at the beginning and end of the powered period, with γCl as the only adjustable parameter. This approach only requires a treatment of diffusion and avoids complications introduced by attempting simulations of the full modulation period. Cl recombination coefficients were determined on the mostly yttria surfaces for Cl2 ICPs (a) immediately after NF3 plasma cleaning (γCl = 0.20), (b) during long exposure to the Cl2 plasma with no substrate bias (γCl = 0.11), and (c) during Si etching with substrate bias (γCl = 0.055-0.070). For Cl2/5% O2 ICPs, these values are 0.28, 0.17, and 0.030, respectively. These results compare favorably to qualitative behavior reported previously for continuous Cl2 and Cl2/O2 ICPs in this yttria-coated chamber.Studies of power-modulated chlorine inductively coupled plasmas (ICPs) bounded by yttria-coated chamber walls are presented. Time-resolved optical emissions from Cl and Xe actinometry trace gas were recorded over the 740–920 nm region as power at 13.56 MHz was modulated between high power and no power. The intensity ratio of Cl-to-Xe emission, proportional to Cl number density, nCl, followed the modulation in power, allowing Cl heterogeneous loss coefficients, γCl, to be obtained from a simple time-resolved, 0-dimensional model of the afterglow period that best matched computed relative changes in nCl at the beginning and end of the powered period, with γCl as the only adjustable parameter. This approach only requires a treatment of diffusion and avoids complications introduced by attempting simulations of the full modulation period. Cl recombination coefficients were determined on the mostly yttria surfaces for Cl2 ICPs (a) immediately after NF3 plasma cleaning (γCl = 0.20), (b) during long exposure to t...
Toward inclusive tech policy design: a method for underrepresented voices to strengthen tech policy documents

To be successful, policy must anticipate a broad range of constituents. Yet, all too often, technology policy is written with primarily mainstream populations in mind. In this article, drawing on Value Sensitive Design and discount evaluation methods, we introduce a new method—Diverse Voices—for strengthening pre-publication technology policy documents from the perspective of underrepresented groups. Cost effective and high impact, the Diverse Voices method intervenes by soliciting input from “experiential” expert panels (i.e., members of a particular stakeholder group and/or those serving that group). We first describe the method. Then we report on two case studies demonstrating its use: one with a white paper on augmented reality technology with expert panels on people with disabilities, people who were formerly or currently incarcerated, and women; and the other with a strategy document on automated driving vehicle technologies with expert panels on youth, non-car drivers, and extremely low-income people. In both case studies, panels identified significant shortcomings in the pre-publication documents which, if addressed, would mitigate some of the disparate impact of the proposed policy recommendations on these particular stakeholder groups. Our discussion includes reflection on the method, evidence for its success, its limitations, and future directions.
A secured distributed control system for future interconnected smart grids

Abstract The reliable performance of the smart grid is a function of the configuration and cyber-physical nature of its constituting systems. Recent public reports showed that there is an increasing rate of attacks on the power systems and that the savvy attackers are now capable of obscuring themselves from conventional intrusion detection systems, bringing about serious threats. Therefore, this work proposes a secured distributed control framework for future smart grids. The work presents a distributed control framework that is secured by means of signal processing tools and consensus protocol. The work models the physical and cyber systems, showing the effect of the different types of cyber-attacks and their mitigation. The proposed framework is based on the use of graph theory and consensus protocol to achieve a global control objective among the different agents in the system. Also, the proposed algorithm is equipped with the mathematical morphology algorithm as a distributed security observer that can analyze the system behavior, and detect and mitigate malicious actions. The proposed cyber-physical system and algorithm are modeled and implemented through MATLAB/Simulink. The results showed the ability of the proposed algorithm in achieving the global power objective and voltage profiles while mitigating a different kind of attack.
Efficient Kinodynamic Multi-Robot Replanning in Known Workspaces

In this work, we consider the problem of online centralized kinodynamic multi-robot replanning (from potentially non-stationary initial states) and coordination in known and cluttered workspaces. Offline state lattice reachability analysis is leveraged to decouple the planning problem into two sequential graph searches–one in the explicit geometric graph of the environment and the other in the graph of the higher-order derivatives of the robot’s state–in a manner such that the intermediate vertices of a safe set of geometric paths are guaranteed to have a feasible assignment of higher-order derivatives. Without additional iterative refinement procedures, the resulting time parameterized polynomial trajectories are dynamically feasible and collision-free. Planning results with up to 20 robots in two and three dimensional workspaces suggest the suitability of the proposed approach for multi-robot replanning in known environments.
Light scattering studies of the sol-to-gel transition in particulate systems.

Abstract We present investigations of the kinetics of the colloidal sol-to-gel transition by combining small angle static light scattering (SASLS) and dynamic light scattering (DLS) techniques. Dilute monomer volume fractions were used to allow for a full investigation of the gelation to obtain all possible kinetic regimes. Our data verify the predictions of a kinetic theory, the ideal gel point (IGP) theory, where three regimes of kinetics are expected. We observe the first regime, the well-known cluster-dilute regime, with a kinetic exponent of z = 1. Followed by a cluster-dense regime with an enhanced kinetics and z ≃ 2. Finally, a gelation regime is observed where the aggregate growth slows and ceases to grow at the IGP predicted size, Rg,G. These results quantitatively verify the IGP theory. We conclude that kinetic description provides a complete theory of the gelation process from sol to gel.
Reduced grid operating costs and renewable energy curtailment with electric vehicle charge management

Abstract Widespread adoption of plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs) and renewable energy (RE) can help to jointly decarbonize the transportation and electricity sectors. Previous studies indicate strategies to manage PEV charging facilitate integration of RE into electricity grids, but the value of such strategies at scale is unclear because electricity markets and PEV charging have been inadequately represented together. This analysis focuses on the state of California in 2025, and improves on prior work by linking high-resolution mobility and grid dispatch models to quantify the value of managed charging under a 50% RE grid and PEV adoption scenarios up to California's 5 million vehicle target. Even after accounting for practical charging and grid constraints, 0.95 to 5 million “smart” charging PEVs avoid $120 to $690 million in California grid operating costs annually (up to 10% of total costs) and reduce RE curtailment up to 40% relative to unmanaged PEVs. Overnight time-of-use (TOU) charging provides similar cost savings but increases curtailment. Both of these managed strategies defer system infrastructure expansion at the 5 million PEV deployment. The results suggest residential smart charging complemented by TOU tariffs with added daytime periods are policies with most potential to advance California's dual PEV and RE goals.
Laser induced graphene fibers for multifunctional aramid fiber reinforced composite

Abstract Aramid fiber reinforced composites have been limited to ballistic applications due to their poor structural performance, easy delamination, and their lack of multifunctionality. Given the poor adhesion of aramid fibers to polymeric matrices, the resulting composites suffer from weak interfacial and interlaminar properties. In this work, laser induced graphene (LIG) is formed directly on the surface of aramid fabrics with varying morphology to simultaneously improve the interlaminar strength of the composite and introduce multifunctionality. The LIG morphology is optimized for maximum improvement to the mechanical performance of the aramid fiber reinforced composite yielding a 70% and 20% increase in both short beam strength and Mode I fracture toughness, respectively. Remarkably, the improvement in interlaminar properties are reached while fully maintaining the specific strength and damping properties of the aramid fabric following the induction process. The improved interlaminar properties are attributed to the enhanced chemical interaction with the oxidized graphitic layer and mechanical interlocking across the interlaminar region due to the presence of the LIG. In addition, the LIG is shown to allow surface conductivity in aramid composites. This work shows that LIG can act as nanoscale building block in aramid fiber reinforced composites in order to provide a fast and cost-effective improvement to the mechanical performance and multifunctionality for structural applications.
Cardiac Myxoma with Cerebral Metastases and Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia/Small Lymphocytic Lymphoma: A Case Report and Review

Background Cardiac myxomas, the most common primary cardiac tumors, are generally benign neoplasms. Primary cardiac lymphoma is a rare cardiac malignancy with a very poor prognosis. Here we present a case of a cardiac myxoma with cerebral metastases and chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma (CLL/SLL) arising within the cerebral metastases. Case description A 62-year-old man, who presented with symptoms of multiple transient ischemic attacks, was found to have a left atrial myxoma. Twelve months after excision of the myxoma, the patient experienced a recurrence of neurologic symptoms. Brain magnetic resonance imaging revealed multiple hemorrhagic masses. Craniotomy was performed to resect the lesions. Histopathologic examination confirmed cardiac myxoma metastases and a small lymphocytic infiltrate within the tumor consistent with CLL/SLL. Conclusion Including the present case, there are 27 cases of cardiac myxoma cerebral metastases and 22 cases of lymphomas arising within myxomas. The present case is the first known instance of both entities in the same patient. There is no standard management for either cardiac myxoma metastases or lymphoma within a myxoma. For both diseases, surgical excision is the primary treatment modality, but postoperative chemotherapy and/or radiation have been attempted. Myxomas may create a chronic inflammatory state that could lead to the development of CLL/SLL.
Effects of High-Intensity Interval Training on Motor Skills Recovery in Sciatic Nerve Crush-Induced Rats

PURPOSE: This study examined the effects of mild-intensity exercise (MIE) and high-intensity interval exercise (HIIE) on the recovery of the motor function over time in sciatic nerve crush injury rats. METHODS: The MIE group ran on a treadmill at a speed of 8.3 m/min to perform low-intensity training with maximum oxygen uptakes ranging from 40 to 50%. The HIIE group ran on the treadmill at a speed of 25 m/min to perform high-intensity training with a maximum oxygen uptake of 80%. The interval training was performed based on a 1:1 work-to-rest ratio. The effects of each form of exercise on the rats’ walking abilities following their recovery from the peripheral nerve injuries were evaluated based on the results of behavior tests performed at one and 14 days. RESULTS: According to the test results, the MIE group showed significant improvements in the rats’ ankle angle in the initial stance phase, and in the ankle and knee angles in the toe-off phase (p<.05). The HIIE group exhibited significant improvements in the ankle and knee angles in the initial stance phase, SFI(p<.05). CONCLUSION: The state of such patients can be improved by applying the results of this study in that MIE and HIIE on a treadmill can contribute to the recovery of the peripheral nerve and motor skill. In particular, MIE is used as a walking functional training in the toe-off stance phase, while HIIE is suitable in the initial stance stage.
Chapter 9 – The Scientific Method

The scientific method has two stages: the first consists of formulating hypotheses, and the second, testing them. What differentiates science from other kinds of knowledge is the second stage: subjecting hypotheses to empirical testing by ascertaining whether or not predictions derived from a particular hypothesis are shown in relevant observations and experiments. There is a dialogue between the two stages; observations made to test a hypothesis are the inspiration for new conjectures. Testing hypotheses is the “criterion of demarcation,” distinctive of science. Paradigmatic examples of scientific practice include Gregor Mendel, the founder of the science of genetics, and Charles Darwin, author of the theory of evolution by natural selection. The Soviet-era Trofim Lysenko represents an instance of the destruction of knowledge by ideology.
22Na(n,p)22Ne and 22Na(n, alpha )19F cross sections from 25 meV to 35 keV.

The $^{22}\mathrm{Na}$(n,${p}_{0}$), (n,${p}_{1}$), (n,${\ensuremath{\alpha}}_{0}$), (n,${\ensuremath{\alpha}}_{1}$), and (n,${\ensuremath{\alpha}}_{2}$) cross sections have been measured at thermal neutron energy. In addition, the ${p}_{0}$ and ${p}_{1}$ cross sections have been measured from thermal energy to 420 eV and 35 keV, respectively. These new data were used to discern the structure of $^{23}\mathrm{Na}$ near the neutron threshold. In particular, it was found that a (${(7/2)}^{+}$ resonance dominates the ${p}_{1}$ cross section but contributes very little to the ${p}_{0}$ cross section. The ${p}_{0}$, and also most probably the (n,${\ensuremath{\alpha}}_{0}$) cross sections, are instead dominated by a separate (${(5/2)}^{+}$ resonance. The $^{22}\mathrm{Na}$(n,p${)}^{22}$Ne astrophysical reaction rate, ${N}_{A}$〈\ensuremath{\sigma}v〉, was calculated using our new data and compared to published theoretical rates used in previous nucleosynthesis calculations. It was found that the theoretical rates are approximately a factor of 5 to 10 different from the experimental one at most temperatures measured. We discuss the possible implications of this difference on nucleosynthesis calculations for $^{22}\mathrm{Na}$ and $^{22}\mathrm{Ne}$.
Analysis of Acoustic Propagation and Scattering Data Across Ship Wakes

Abstract : The long-term objective of this work is to contribute to the understanding of propagation and scattering in ship wakes for the purpose of mitigating the potential of detecting and following of wakes by wakehoming torpedoes. NRL has collected wake-acoustics dataset containing a wide variety of measurements across ship wakes. The goal of this research is to analyze the various data contain in that dataset to determine correlations among the various receiving equipment and scenarios sampled in the dataset. Attempts will be made to interpret these data in terms of various scattering theories for propagation in random inhomogeneous media, such as the Born and/or Rytov approximations, in the various regimes of weak to strong scattering. The ultimate goal will be to interpret the scales and magnitudes of bubble clouds and/or turbulence regimes. Within limitations in the scope of this project, however, we will determine what may offer the greatest impact to be made toward our ultimate goal and to address that selected course of action with analysis and publication of the results.