cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Radiative Heating Uncertainty for Hyperbolic Earth Entry, Part 1: Flight Simulation Modeling and Uncertainty

This paper investigates the shock-layer radiative heating uncertainty for hyperbolic Earth entry, with the main focus being a Mars return. A baseline simulation approach involving the LAURA Navier–Stokes code with coupled ablation and radiation is presented, with the HARA radiation code being used for the radiation predictions. Flight cases representative of peak heatingMars or asteroid return are defined, and the strong influence of coupled ablation and radiation on their aerothermodynamic environments are shown. Structural uncertainties inherent in the baseline simulations are identified,with turbulencemodeling, precursor absorption, grid convergence, and radiation transport uncertainties combining for a 34 and 24% structural uncertainty on the radiative heating. A parametric uncertainty analysis, which assumes interval uncertainties, is presented. This analysis accounts for uncertainties in the radiation models, as well as heat of formation uncertainties in the flowfield model. Discussions and references are provided to support the uncertainty range chosen for each parameter. A parametric uncertainty of 47 and 28% is computed for the stagnation-point radiative heating for the 15 km=s Mars-return case. A breakdown of the largest individual uncertainty contributors is presented, which includes C3 Swings cross section, photoionization edge shift, and Opacity Project atomic lines. Combining the structural and parametric uncertainty components results in a total uncertainty of 81 and 52% for the Mars-return case.
Enhancement of serum fibronectin adsorption and the clonal plating efficiencies of Swiss mouse 3T3 fibroblast and MM14 mouse myoblast cells on polymer substrates modified by radiofrequency plasma deposition

Abstract Surfaces which specifically enhance fibronectin (FN) adsorption from serum containing media were prepared and investigated. Since FN adsorbed to a substrate from serum facilitates the spreading and subsequent replication of anchorage-dependent cells in culture, these new surfaces were of interest. The surfaces studied were prepared by treating either poly(ethyleneterephthalate) (PET) or polystyrene (PS) with a radiofrequency plasma discharge of ethylene oxide (C2H4O) or perfluoropropane (C3F8) vapor, a mixture of the two, or one of the following vapors: acetone, air, methanol, or water. The surfaces were analyzed by electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis (ESCA). Identification and quantitation of surface functional groups was done by high resolution ESCA. FN adsorption from a series of serum dilutions to modified plastic surfaces was measured using Iodine (125I)-labeled FN. Swiss mouse 3T3 fibroblasts and MM14 mouse skeletal myoblasts were each plated onto these surfaces, as well as on two different types of commercially available culture dishes. Plating efficiency was measured on each surface. 3T3 cell spreading after 2 h, spreading kinetics, and attachment kinetics were also studied on some surfaces. All PET and PS plasma-treated surfaces except those treated with C3F8 adsorbed more FN than did three commercially available culture surfaces. FN adsorption was maximal at intermediate serum concentration on all surfaces. The greatest enhancement in FN adsorption occurred on the acetone plasma-treated surface. Bovine serum albumin adsorption from serum to the acetone plasma-treated surface was less than that to the untreated surface. The plating efficiencies of both 3T3 and MM14 cell types correlated well with FN adsorption to the plasma-treated surfaces, but the cell behavior on the commercial tissue culture dishes did not always follow this trend. In general, surfaces exhibiting both high plating efficiencies and high FN adsorption had a greater fraction of surface C-O functionalities than did low plating efficiency, low FN adsorption substrates. The possible role of FN as well as other serum spreading factors in mediating enhanced cell growth is discussed.
Methods for the determination of static and dynamic stresses in bodies with subsurface cracks

We study the analytic and numerical methods for the solution of problems of the theory of cracks located near the surfaces of three-dimensional and thin-walled bodies under thermal and force static and dynamic loads. We describe the influence of the surfaces of the body or the interfaces between its materials on the static and dynamic stress intensity factors in the vicinity of the defects.
Linking biophysical models and public preferences for ecosystem service assessments: a case study for the Southern Rocky Mountains

Through extensive research, ecosystem services have been mapped using both survey-based and biophysical approaches, but comparative mapping of public values and those quantified using models has been lacking. In this paper, we mapped hot and cold spots for perceived and modeled ecosystem services by synthesizing results from a social-values mapping study of residents living near the Pike–San Isabel National Forest (PSI), located in the Southern Rocky Mountains, with corresponding biophysically modeled ecosystem services. Social-value maps for the PSI were developed using the Social Values for Ecosystem Services tool, providing statistically modeled continuous value surfaces for 12 value types, including aesthetic, biodiversity, and life-sustaining values. Biophysically modeled maps of carbon sequestration and storage, scenic viewsheds, sediment regulation, and water yield were generated using the Artificial Intelligence for Ecosystem Services tool. Hotspots for both perceived and modeled services were disproportionately located within the PSI’s wilderness areas. Additionally, we used regression analysis to evaluate spatial relationships between perceived biodiversity and cultural ecosystem services and corresponding biophysical model outputs. Our goal was to determine whether publicly valued locations for aesthetic, biodiversity, and life-sustaining values relate meaningfully to results from corresponding biophysical ecosystem service models. We found weak relationships between perceived and biophysically modeled services, indicating that public perception of ecosystem service provisioning regions is limited. We believe that biophysical and social approaches to ecosystem service mapping can serve as methodological complements that can advance ecosystem services-based resource management, benefitting resource managers by showing potential locations of synergy or conflict between areas supplying ecosystem services and those valued by the public.
Response of Neurotensin Basal Ganglia Systems during Extinction of Methamphetamine Self-Administration in Rat

Because of persistent social problems caused by methamphetamine (METH), new therapeutic strategies need to be developed. Thus, we investigated the response of central nervous system neurotensin (NT) systems to METH self-administration (SA) and their interaction with basal ganglia dopamine (DA) pathways. Neurotensin is a peptide associated with inhibitory feedback pathways to nigrostriatal DA projections. We observed that NT levels decreased in rats during extinction of METH SA when lever pressing resulted in intravenous infusions of saline rather than METH. Thus, 6 h after the first session of extinction, NT levels were 53, 42, and 49% of corresponding controls in the anterior dorsal striatum, posterior dorsal striatum, and globus pallidus, respectively. NT levels were also significantly reduced in corresponding yoked rats in the anterior dorsal striatum (64% of control), but not the other structures examined. The reductions in NT levels in the anterior dorsal striatum particularly correlated with the lever pressing during the first session of extinction (r =s; 0.745). These, and previously reported findings, suggest that the extinction-related reductions in NT levels were mediated by activation of D2 receptors. Finally, administration of the neurotensin receptor 1 (NTR1) agonist [PD149163 [Lys(CH2NH)Lys-Pro,Trp-tert-Leu-Leu-Oet]; 0.25 or 0.5 mg/kg] diminished lever pressing during the first extinction session, whereas the NTR1 antagonist [SR48692 [2-[(1-(7-chloro-4-quinolinyl)-5-(2,6-imethoxyphenyl)pyrazol-3-yl)carbonylamino]tricyclo(3.3.1.1.(3.7))decan-2-carboxylic acid]; 0.3 mg/kg per administration] attenuated the reduction of lever pressing during the second to fourth days of extinction. In summary, these findings support the hypothesis that some of the endogenous basal ganglia NT systems contribute to the elimination of contingent behavior during the early stages of the METH SA extinction process.
Intrapleural Tissue Plasminogen Activator for the Treatment of Parapneumonic Effusion

Intrapleural tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) has emerged over the past several years as a treatment option for patients with complicated parapneumonic effusion that does not respond to medical management and drainage. Fibrinolytics are thought to dissolve fibrin deposits and loculations within the pleural space, facilitating drainage of the trapped pleural fluid surrounding the lungs. Whereas older fibrinolytics (streptokinase and urokinase) have been studied for intrapleural use with conflicting results, t-PA is currently the agent most commonly used in adults for this indication. However, the literature describing t-PA therapy for complicated parapneumonic effusion and empyema is sparse, and studies have been highly variable in their methods. Several articles report use of this drug at doses ranging from 2-100 mg at daily intervals or more frequently. Surgical treatment options associated with good outcomes are also available to these patients. As a result, the indications for intrapleural t-PA (especially compared with surgical management) in patients with effusions resistant to conventional drainage are not fully clear. The usefulness of t-PA in all patients with resistant parapneumonic effusions or empyema before surgical intervention remains undetermined, but several studies have taken this approach. Sufficient evidence is available to indicate that this therapy does have potential in patients for whom surgery is not a safe or desired option. Further study is needed to better understand the role of t-PA and its optimal dosage in patients with complicated parapneumonic effusion.
Robust test methods applied to functional design verification

With the ever growing complexity and interaction of the vehicle functionalities, a reliable functional test methodology has become a major concern. In 1995, recognizing the need to develop a quality functional test process, Ford Motor Company started a concentrated effort to define for itself and its suppliers an effective test strategy for functionality verification, for which the Robust Test Method (RTM) presented in this paper is an important component. The strategy was successfully applied in Ford, in an environment that is extremely cost-conscious, demands high quality and fast test turnaround time. RTM was born out of the need of Japanese industry to establish its competitive capability after the Second World War by providing high quality products. Madhav Phadke brought the methodology to Ford Motor Company. The introduction of robust test methods into the test process translated into a quantum jump in the test quality, allowing the detection of previously undetected faults. This type of testing applied to subsystem level design verification yielded more errors detected than the module and system tests combined, while reducing the test turnaround time by 30%.
Defending the Earth Against Asteroids: The Case for a Global Response

The Earth is immersed in a swarm of Near Earth Asteroids (NEAs) capable of colliding with our planet, a fact that has become widely recognized within the past decade. The role of crater-forming imp...
Novel Pseudomonas aeruginosa Quorum-Sensing Inhibitors Identified in an Ultra-High-Throughput Screen

The opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa has two complete acyl-homoserine lactone (acyl-HSL) signaling systems, LasR-LasI and RhlR-RhlI. LasI catalyzes the synthesis of N-3-oxododecanoyl homoserine lactone (3OC12-HSL), and LasR is a transcription factor that requires 3OC12-HSL as a ligand. RhlI catalyzes the synthesis of N-butanoyl homoserine lactone (C4), and RhlR is a transcription factor that responds to C4. LasR and RhlR control the transcription of hundreds of P. aeruginosa genes, many of which are critical virulence determinants, and LasR is required for RhlR function. We developed an ultra-high-throughput cell-based assay to screen a library of approximately 200,000 compounds for inhibitors of LasR-dependent gene expression. Although the library contained a large variety of chemical structures, the two best inhibitors resembled the acyl-homoserine lactone molecule that normally binds to LasR. One compound, a tetrazole with a 12-carbon alkyl tail designated PD12, had a 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 30 nM. The second compound, V-06-018, had an IC50 of 10 μM and is a phenyl ring with a 12-carbon alkyl tail. A microarray analysis showed that both compounds were general inhibitors of quorum sensing, i.e., the expression levels of most LasR-dependent genes were affected. Both compounds also inhibited the production of two quorum-sensing-dependent virulence factors, elastase and pyocyanin. These compounds should be useful for studies of LasR-dependent gene regulation and might serve as scaffolds for the identification of new quorum-sensing modulators.
The National Rights of the People of Palestine

The United Nations Charter pertains to peoples as well as to states. Among the purposes of the United Nations specified in the first article of the Charter is: "To develop friendly relations among nations based on respect for the principle of equal rights and self-determination of peoples....''1 This marks a significant departure from the old legal theory that international law accords rights only to states and governments and not to groups or individuals.2
Inhibitory and Bactericidal Effects of Hydrogen Peroxide Production by Streptococcus pneumoniae on Other Inhabitants of the Upper Respiratory Tract

An inverse correlation between colonization of the human nasopharynx by Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae, both common upper respiratory pathogens, has been reported. Studies were undertaken to determine if either of these organisms produces substances which inhibit growth of the other. Culture supernatants from S. pneumoniae inhibited growth of H. influenzae, whereas culture supernatants from H. influenzae had no effect on the growth of S. pneumoniae. Moreover, coculture of S. pneumoniae and H. influenzae led to a rapid decrease in viable counts of H. influenzae. The addition of purified catalase prevented killing of H. influenzae in coculture experiments, suggesting that hydrogen peroxide may be responsible for this bactericidal activity. H. influenzae was killed by concentrations of hydrogen peroxide similar to that produced by S. pneumoniae. Hydrogen peroxide is produced by the pneumococcus through the action of pyruvate oxidase (SpxB) under conditions of aerobic growth. Both an spxB mutant and a naturally occurring variant of S. pneumoniae, which is downregulated in SpxB expression, were unable to kill H. influenzae. A catalase-reversible inhibitory effect of S. pneumoniae on the growth of the respiratory tract pathogens Moraxella catarrhalis and Neisseria meningitidis was also observed. Elevated hydrogen peroxide production, therefore, may be a means by which S. pneumoniae is able to inhibit a variety of competing organisms in the aerobic environment of the upper respiratory tract.
The validity of BMI as an indicator of body fatness and risk among children.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Although the prevalence of childhood obesity, as assessed by BMI (kg/m2), has tripled over the last 3 decades, this index is a measure of excess weight rather than excess body fatness. In this review we focus on the relation of BMI to body fatness and health risks, particularly on the ability of BMI for age ≥95th Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC] percentile to identify children who have excess body fatness. We also examine whether these associations differ according to race/ethnicity and whether skinfold and circumference measurements provide additional information on body fatness or health risks. RESULTS: The accuracy of BMI varies according to the degree of body fatness. Among relatively fat children, BMI is a good indicator of excess adiposity, but differences in the BMIs of relatively thin children can be largely due to fat-free mass. Although the accuracy of BMI in identifying children with excess body fatness depends on the chosen cut points, we have found that a high BMI-for-age has a moderately high (70%–80%) sensitivity and positive predictive value, along with a high specificity (95%). Children with a high BMI are much more likely to have adverse risk factor levels and to become obese adults than are thinner children. Skinfold thicknesses and the waist circumference may be useful in identifying children with moderately elevated levels of BMI (85th to 94th percentiles) who truly have excess body fatness or adverse risk factor levels. CONCLUSION: A BMI for age at ≥95th percentile of the CDC reference population is a moderately sensitive and a specific indicator of excess adiposity among children.
male gender and rituals of resistance in the Palestinian intifada: a cultural politics of violence

This article examines ritualized inscriptions of bodily violence upon Palestinian male youths in the occupied territories. It argues that beatings and detention are construed as rites of passage into manhood. Bodily violence is crucial in the construction of a moral self among its recipients, who are enabled to juxtapose their own cultural categories of manhood and morality to those of a foreign power. Ritual as a transformative experience foregrounds a political agency designed to reverse relations of domination between occupied and occupier. Simultaneously, it both reaffirms and transforms internal Palestinian forms of domination. [Middle East, masculinity, ritual performance, violence, body, construction of self]
Mismatched begging displays between foreign and host offspring reduce brood parasite fitness

Obligate brood parasites must obtain food from unrelated host parents during the developmental period, and this may be especially difficult when parasitic nestlings are raised alone. Unlike specialist brood parasites, generalist brood parasites use a single begging display for a range of host species. In this study, we 1) tested whether the begging display of the generalist brown-headed cowbird (Molothrus ater) was more exaggerated than the closely related, nonparasitic red-winged blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus) and 2) examined how begging displays were linked to food provisioning when both foreign species were raised by the Bell’s vireo (Vireo bellii), a small cowbird host. We also quantified parental provisioning to unparasitized broods containing 1–4 vireo nestlings to provide a reference provisioning curve to provide context for assessing the feeding rate to foreign offspring. We found blackbirds begged as intensely as (or more intensely than) cowbird nestlings, vireo parents provisioned both species similarly, and the amount of food provisioned to unparasitized broods increased with brood size and maintained per-capita vireo growth. However, feeding of a single foreign nestling was significantly less than that of a modal brood of 4 vireos, indicating parents fed foreign nestlings at submaximal rates. Vireos did not respond to begging of foreign nestlings in the same manner as their own offspring, and this led to significant fitness costs for foreign nestlings. We conclude that a single foreign nestling provided an inadequate stimulus for vireos, probably because of a mismatch between the begging displays of foreign and host offspring.
Coupling on-chip solid-phase extraction to electrospray mass spectrometry through an integrated electrospray tip

We report the integration of solid-phase extraction (SPE) with mass spectrometry (MS) through an on-chip electrospray tip for sample precleaning and preconcentration. An in situ polymerized alkylacrylate-based monolithic column was used as the stationary phase for the on-chip SPE. Each microchip consists of two sets of microchannels and their respective integrated electrospray tips, with a common gold electrode. After the microchip was fabricated from cycloolefin polymer by hot embossing, thermal bonding, and annealing steps, a mixture of monomers and porogenic solvents was pumped into the microchannels and certain areas of the main microchannels were exposed to UV irradiation through a mask. The resulting porous monolithic beds that were polymerized from different compositions of the mixture were characterized by scanning electron microscopy. The microchip containing the monolithic column was then interfaced to an ion trap (IT) mass spectrometer by modifying a commercially available interfacing system. Makeup solution from the side channel was infused concurrently with the solution flowing into the main channel, and the mixture of these two solutions was sprayed into the MS orifice. Both the adsorption and elution of a pharmaceutical test compound, imipramine, to and from the on-chip SPE columns were monitored by MS. The potential application of this device for sample cleanup was demonstrated by pretreatment of urine samples spiked with imipramine.
The role of information technology in disease management

Advances in information technology provide multiple opportunities for the improvement of healthcare delivery in diagnosis, management, and support of disease. Improved automated decision support systems, coupled with evidence-based medicine, form the basis for important aids that assist the physician in the diagnostic process. In addition, telemedicine provides the ability to monitor and evaluate treatment effectiveness for patients who have difficulty visiting the physician and is particularly useful for healthcare followup in rural areas. Web-based information sources can benefit all patients and their caregivers. Online support groups as well as web-based sources of support can ease the burden of caregivers. Combinations of technologies that address the delivery of healthcare from diagnosis to management permit the development of patient-specific models that can impact disease management from the patient's perspective. Transfer of these techniques into clinical practice is illustrated here for diagnosis, management, and support of dementia.
Algebraic identities and query optimization in a parametric model for relational temporal databases

This paper presents algebraic identities and algebraic query optimization for a parametric model for temporal databases. The parametric model has several features not present in the classical model. In this model, a key is explicitly designated with a relation, and an operator is available to change the key. The algebra for the parametric model is three-sorted; it includes 1) relational expressions that evaluate to relations, 2) domain expressions that evaluate to time domains, and 3) Boolean expressions that evaluate to TRUE or FALSE. The identities in the parametric model are classified as weak identities and strong identities. Weak identities in this model are largely counterparts of the identities in classical relational databases. Rather than establishing weak identities from scratch, a meta inference mechanism, introduced in the paper, allows weak identities to be induced from their respective classical counterpart. On the other hand, the strong identities will be established from scratch. An algorithm is presented for algebraic optimization to transform a query to an equivalent query that will execute more efficiently.
Signal processing algorithms for hyperspectral remote sensing of chemical plumes

Long-wave infrared (LWIR) hyperspectral imaging sensors are widely used for the detection and identification of released chemical agents in many civilian and military applications. Current hyperspectral system capabilities are limited by variation in the background clutter as opposed to the physics of photon detection. Hence, the development of statistical models for background clutter and optimum signal processing algorithms that exploit these models are essential for the design of practical systems that satisfy user's requirements. This paper describes a signal processing system for the detection and identification of released chemical agents developed at MIT Lincoln Laboratory. We discuss the underlying signal models, key detection and identification algorithms, and some areas where the signal processing community could contribute.
Are IPE Journals Becoming Boring

Are IPE journals becoming boring? The question is a serious one. Over the four decades or so since the modern field of International Political Economy was born, the character of what gets published in leading journals in the United States—IPE standard setters like International Organization, International Studies Quarterly , and World Politics —has changed dramatically. Arguably, the change has not been for the better. To illustrate, consider a simple thought experiment. Think first of some of the memorable work published in the early years of the field—work like Keohane and Nye's special International Organization issue on “Transnational Relations and World Politics,” published as a book in 1972; Peter Katzenstein's 1976 IO essay on “International Relations and Domestic Structures,” which in turn led to his special issue on “Between Power and Plenty,” also published as a book in 1978; or Stephen Krasner's special issue on “International Regimes,” published in book form in 1983. Or think of Krasner's 1976 World Politics study of “State Power and the Structure of International Trade”; Peter Gourevitch's 1978 IO article on the second image reversed; John Ruggie's 1982 IO essay on embedded liberalism; or Jeff Frieden's 1991 IO paper on invested interests. All were seminal, foundational works—influential scholarship that is still widely read and cited. Now compare these with anything that has appeared in mainstream journals over the last 5–10 years. A great deal of quality research has been published, much of it making use of the most rigorous and up-to-date statistical methodologies. The intellectual candlepower is impressive. But how well does this work stack up against the output of earlier years? How much can be regarded as truly path-breaking? How much is likely to be read or cited 5–10 years from now? The answers, I think, are obvious. Our major journals are full of articles …
A nanoporous silicon nitride membrane using a two-step lift-off pattern transfer with thermal nanoimprint lithography

Nanoimprint lithography is emerging as a viable contender for fabrication of large-scale arrays of 5–500 nm features. A fabrication process for the realization of thin nanoporous membranes using thermal nanoimprint lithography is presented. Suspended silicon nitride membranes were fabricated by low-pressure chemical vapor deposition (LPCVD) in conjunction with a potassium hydroxide-based bulk micromachining process. Nanoscale features were imprinted into a commercially available thermoplastic polymer resist using a prefabricated silicon mold. The pattern was reversed and transferred to a thin aluminum oxide layer by means of a novel two-stage lift-off technique. The patterned aluminum oxide was used as an etch mask in a CHF3/He-based reactive ion etch process to transfer the pattern to silicon nitride. Highly directional etch profiles with near vertical sidewalls and excellent Si3N4/Al2O3 etch selectivity were observed. One micrometer thick porous membranes with varying dimensions of 250 × 250 µm2 to 450 × 450 µm2 and a pore diameter of 400 nm have been engineered and evaluated. Results indicate that the membranes have consistent nanopore dimensions and precisely defined porosity, which makes them ideal as gas exchange interfaces in blood oxygenation systems as well as other applications such as dialysis.
Adaptive system-level diagnosis for hypercube multiprocessors

System-level diagnosis is an important technique for fault detection and location in multiprocessor computing systems. Efficient diagnosis is highly desirable for sustaining the original system power. Moreover, effective diagnosis is particularly important for a multiprocessor system with high scalability but low connectivity. Most of the existing results are not applicable in practice because of the high diagnosis cost and limited diagnosability. Over-d fault diagnosis, where d is the diagnosability, has only been addressed using a probabilistic method in the literature. Aiming at these two issues, we propose a hierarchical adaptive system-level diagnosis approach for hypercube systems using a divide-and-conquer strategy. We first propose a conceptual algorithm HADA to formulate a rigorous analysis. Then we present its practical variant IHADA. In HADA and IHADA, the over-d fault problem is inherently tackled through a deterministic method. Three measures for diagnosis cost (diagnosis time, number of tests, and number of test links) are analyzed for the proposed algorithms. It is proved that the diagnosis cost required by our approach is lower than in previous diagnosis algorithms. It is shown that the diagnosis cost for the proposed algorithms depends on the number and location of faulty units in the system and the cost is extremely low when only a small number of faulty units exist. It is also shown that our algorithms are characterized by lower costs than a pessimistic diagnosis algorithm which trades lower diagnosis cost for a lower degree of accuracy. Experimental results on the nCUBE are provided.
HPV vaccination among young adult women: a perspective from Appalachian Kentucky.

Introduction Few studies have assessed barriers to human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination uptake and adherence, particularly among women of Appalachian Kentucky, a population with higher rates of cervical cancer, lower rates of HPV vaccination, and lower socioeconomic status compared with the rest of the nation. The objective of this study was to address women’s reasons for declining the HPV vaccine and, among women who initiated the vaccine series, barriers to completion of the 3-dose regimen.
Self‐Esteem Discourses

Self-esteem discourses encompass a wide and heterogeneous range of discourses pertaining to individuals' assessment of their own worth. Originating in US academic psychology, self-esteem discourses continue to find their natural home in this disciplinary arena. This article discusses how self-esteem discourses spread from the academy into public and privates spaces in the late-20th century, pervading US popular culture. In keeping with interdisciplinary scholarship, this article brings perspectives from multiple disciplines to bear in analyzing the cultural meanings and limited cultural range of self-esteem discourses. The article concludes with attention to debates and controversies surrounding self-esteem. Keywords: interdisciplinarity; popular culture; self; interdisciplinarity; popular culture; self
Influence of Dip and Velocity Heterogeneity on Reverse- and Normal-Faulting Rupture Dynamics and Near-Fault Ground Motions

We investigate the influence of fault dip (35°–60°) and crustal velocity heterogeneity on rupture dynamics and near-fault ground motions from normal- and reverse-faulting. The same initial conditions were used, except for the direction of initial shear stress, in each dynamic rupture calculation. We used two 3D elastic finite-element approaches that employ split nodes for the computations. In homogeneous and weakly heterogeneous half-spaces with faults dipping ≲50°, maximum fault-normal peak velocities occurred on the hanging wall. However, for fault dips ≳50°, maximum fault-normal peak velocities occurred on the footwall. Bilateral and unilateral rupture simulations in weakly heterogeneous media found that reverse-faulting slip velocities (frequency band 1–3.5 Hz) were on average 39% larger than those during normal faulting. However, on average reverse-faulting slip velocities were only 16% larger than normal-faulting slip velocities for frequencies 50°.
The continuous antigenic regions in the second domain of the β chain of human MHC DR2 antigen: antigenic profile of the entire extracellular part of the chain

Ten consecutive 15-residue peptides (except for peptide 181-198) that spanned the entire second domain of the HLA DR2 beta chain and overlapped by 5 residues were synthesized, purified and characterized. The antibody-binding activities of the peptides with human alloantisera and with antisera raised in other species were determined by radioimmunosorbent titrations. This established the full profile of peptides having specific antibody-binding activity with these various antisera. The continuous antigenic sites in this domain were localized within four regions. The localization of the antigenic regions on the second domain completes the description of the antigenic profile of the entire extracellular part of the beta chain of HLA DR2. Thus, the continuous antigenic sites on the extracellular part of the DR2 beta subunit reside within seven regions with an eighth site being recognized somewhat weakly with some antisera. As was found for the first domain, the immunodominance of a given site varied with the antisera and boundary shifts were present. The submolecular regions recognized on the second domain of the DR2 beta were independent of the host species from which the antisera were obtained.
Radiologic Assessment of the Periodontal Patient

Periodontal examination involves evaluation of soft and hard tissue parameters to gauge gingival inflammatory changes and quantify attachment loss. Conventional radiographs are vital components of this process and can be used to assess the presence of calculus and other local factors to establish a diagnosis, prognosis, and periodontal treatment plan. The 2-dimensional nature of these images limits their utility. The advent of high-resolution cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) offers 3-dimensional images that might overcome these limitations. We discuss the use of conventional radiographic techniques as well as CBCT for evaluating, diagnosing, and treatment planning patients presenting for periodontal and/or implant therapy.
Assessment of sorghum germplasm from Burkina Faso and South Africa to identify new sources of resistance to grain mold and anthracnose

Abstract Sorghum is an important worldwide crop whose yield can be significantly reduced by anthracnose ( Colletotrichum sublineola ) and grain mold diseases (multiple fungi). The identification of new genetic sources of resistance to both diseases is imperative for the development of new sorghum varieties. To this end, a total of 80 exotic germplasm accessions from Burkina Faso (BFA) and South Africa (ZAF) were evaluated for anthracnose and grain mold resistance during two planting periods in 2012 at the USDA-ARS experimental farms in Isabela, Puerto Rico. Twelve accessions were resistant to anthracnose during both evaluations of which 10 are originally from BFA. The anthracnose resistant accessions identified herein had a hypersensitive reaction characterized by lesions having red and purple color. Likewise, 9 accessions exhibited grain mold resistance after being inoculated with a mixture of a conidial suspension of Fusarium thapsinum , Fusarium semitectum , and Curvularia lunata during both periods. Eight of these accessions (PI 586182, PI 586186, PI 647705, PI 647706, PI 647707, PI 647708, PI 647710, and PI 647712) originated from BFA, while one (PI 61666) is from ZAF. The PI 586186 was the only accession that exhibited resistance to both anthracnose and grain mold. The grain mold resistant accession PI 61666 has a panicle shape that resembles a standard United States commercial type sorghum and is also photoperiod insensitive. The results presented herein indicate that the BFA germplasm could be an important source for anthracnose and grain mold resistance genes. The integration of these anthracnose and grain mold resistant germplasm into sorghum breeding programs should aid in expanding the genetic diversity and in the development of new resistant varieties.
Topological phases with ultracold atoms and photons

We propose theoretical models that support topological phases and which are relevant to current experiments on lattices hosting photonic modes or ultracold atoms. In the first part of this thesis, we introduce a topological phase on a Kagom e lattice whose degrees of freedom are photons. In that context, we discuss two protocols to access the local Berry curvature and the Chern number of Bloch bands from semiclassical dynamics of wavepackets. Secondly, we obtain the phase diagram for bosons at unit filling with repulsive on–site interactions whose kinetic term corresponds to a Chern insulator defined on the honeycomb lattice. In the second part, we turn to recently realized quasi one–dimensional lattices, and un- cover their phase diagrams, comprising low–dimensional Meissner phases, chiral Mott insulating phases as well as abelian fractional quantum Hall states.
Hierarchical nanomechanics of vimentin alpha helical coiled-coil proteins

Coiled-coil alpha-helical dimers are the elementary building blocks of intermediate filaments (IFs), an important component of the cell’s cytoskeleton. Therefore, IFs play a leading role in the mechanical integrity of the cells. Here we use atomistic simulation to carry out tensile tests on coiled-coils as well as on single alpha-helices of the 2B segment of the vimentin dimer that has been shown to control the large-deformation behavior of cells. We compare the characteristic force-strain curves of both structures and suggest explanations for the differences on this fundamental level of hierarchical assembly. We further systematically explore the strain rate dependence of the mechanical properties of the vimentin coiled-coil protein. We develop a simple continuum model capable of reproducing the atomistic modeling results. The model enables us to extrapolate to much lower deformation rates approaching those used in experiment.
Is p16-positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma associated with favorable prognosis? A systematic review and meta-analysis

The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to compare the prognosis of patients with p16 expressing oropharyngeal squamous cell cancers to patients with p16 non-expressing cancers. Clinical outcomes that were evaluated included overall survival, local recurrence, disease-free survival, disease-specific survival, and event-free survival. The following electronic databases were searched: Cochrane Library, MEDLINE (via Pubmed), and Web of Science. Publications were restricted to English language. Studies were limited to controlled clinical trials on the survival rates of patients with oropharyngeal tumors that were p16 expressing, compared to patients with p16 non-expressing tumors, and at least one clinical endpoint reported by trial authors (hazard ratios). Specific ascertainment criteria were applied for inclusion and exclusion of eligible studies. Data was independently extracted in duplicate. This systematic review adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis PRISMA checklist. Risk of bias was assessed for all included studies, and disagreements between review authors were discussed until an agreement was reached. Eighteen studies were included for final review and meta-analysis. The subgroup meta-analyses, which included survival and recurrence data, showed significantly favorable outcomes for patients with p16 expressing tumors. There is strong evidence to support that patients with p16 expressing oropharyngeal squamous cell cancers have favorable clinical outcomes and prognosis.
Did cortical remapping lend artist a hand

Summary A fantastic exhibition focusing on the work of German graphic artist Matthias Buchinger (1674–1740) has recently opened at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York (http://metmuseum.org/events/programs/met-speaks/ticketed-talks/buchingerricky-jay). Buchinger's specialty was micrography, an art form developed by Jewish calligraphers in the ninth century in which apparent lines or strands of hair in a drawing are actually themselves composed of tiny letters such as in Buchinger's wondrous portrait of Queen Anne, in which what appear to be very thin ‘lines' making up her hair, some of her garments and a surrounding design is written in microscopic letters the first three chapters of the Book of Kings. Buchinger's works are all the more amazing as he was able to make them despite being born without hands (or feet). In addition to his work as an artist Buchinger was a musician and magician and had fourteen children with four wives.
Technic of intravenous pyelography.

Large doses of contrast medium in intravenous pyelography are well tolerated by most patients, eliminate the need for ureteral compression, and greatly improve the quality of pyelograms. This article describes how to prepare the patient, inject the contrast medium, make the films, and handle adverse reactions in this procedure. In subsequent issues interpretation of results and special problems in intravenous pyelography in children will be discussed.
Perceptions of cancer in an African-American community: a focus group report.

OBJECTIVES: To assess cancer perceptions, beliefs, and barriers to prevention among African-American residents of West Baltimore for the purpose of informing community cancer control initiatives. DESIGN AND METHODS: We conducted focus group interviews with local healthcare providers and African-American Baltimore City residents. Focus group interviews were read and analyzed using qualitative analytic techniques, emphasizing themes and patterns in responses. RESULTS: The community member and local healthcare provider focus groups identified strikingly similar themes. In particular, participants in both groups discussed the pervasive fear and stigma associated with cancer within the African-American community. Both groups identified cancer fatalism, misperceptions of the nature of cancer and its treatment, competing priorities, and a 'crisis orientation' toward medical care as key barriers to prevention and early diagnosis. Participants in all focus groups were also acutely concerned about community distrust of the healthcare system. CONCLUSIONS: The principal themes identified in this hypothesis-generating study were potentially modifiable factors, giving rise to optimism that interventions informed by these results could have a substantial impact on cancer control in this community.
Protection of the neonatal myocardium during hypothermic ischemia. Effect of cardioplegia on left ventricular function in the rabbit

The protective effect of cardioplegia upon neonatal myocardium during ischemia has not been clearly established. This study evaluated the effects of cardioplegia on left ventricular function in isolated, working neonatal rabbit hearts (aged 1 week) subjected to 120 minutes of global ischemia at 28° C. Four groups were studied: Group 1, hypothermia alone; Group 2, intermittent washout with an oxygenated noncardioplegic solution; Group 3, multidose cardioplegia; Group 4, single-dose cardioplegia. After ischemia, cardiac output was reduced to 72% ± 5% (mean ± standard error of the mean) of control (p
Preoperative Frailty Is Associated With Discharge to Skilled or Assisted Living Facilities After Urologic Procedures of Varying Complexity

Objective To evaluate the association between frailty and postoperative discharge destination after different types of commonly performed urologic procedures in older patients. Materials and Methods Using data from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS NSQIP) from 2011 to 2013, we identified commonly performed inpatient urologic procedures among patients aged 65 and older. We then assessed the effect of frailty, measured by the NSQIP Frailty Index (NSQIP-FI), on discharge to a skilled or assisted living facility using logistic regression and assessed the heterogeneity of this effect across procedures using 2-level random effects modeling. Results Overall, 1144 out of 20,794 (5.5%) urologic cases, representing 19 different procedures, resulted in discharge to a skilled or assisted living facility. Cystectomy and large transurethral resection of bladder tumor had the highest percentage (16.3%). Twenty-five percent of patients undergoing urology procedures were frail (NSQIP-FI 0.18+), including 9.8% of patients discharged to a facility. Even after adjustment for year, age, race, type of anesthesia, smoking status, recent weight loss, and whether or not the procedure was elective, frailty was strongly associated with discharge to a facility (adjusted odds ratio 3.1 [96% confidence interval 2.5, 3.8] for NSQIP-FI 0.18+ compared to NSQIP FI 0). This finding was consistent across most procedures of varying complexity with an overall effect of odds ratio 1.6 (95% confidence interval 1.5, 2.0). Conclusion Increasing frailty is associated with discharge to a skilled or assisted living facility across most inpatient urologic procedures evaluated, regardless of complexity. This information is important for preoperative counseling with patients undergoing urologic surgery.
Percutaneous intervention for carotid in-stent restenosis does not improve outcomes compared with nonoperative management

Abstract Background The appropriateness of percutaneous intervention for moderate to severe carotid in-stent restenosis (C-ISR) is unclear. We therefore sought to compare stroke/death/myocardial infarction (MI) rates between percutaneous interventions and nonoperative management for ≥50% C-ISR. Methods We performed a single-center retrospective review of consecutive patients presenting with ≥50% C-ISR to the vascular surgery service. Demographics, comorbidities, and intraoperative and postoperative variables were obtained. The degree of stenosis was verified by review of digital subtraction or computed tomography angiograms. The primary outcome was stroke/death/MI after the diagnosis of ≥50% C-ISR. χ 2 , Kruskal-Wallis, and Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to quantify outcomes of the patients treated percutaneously vs nonoperatively. Results During a 13-year period, 59 patients (75 C-ISRs) presented with ≥50% C-ISRs (n = 58 male [98%]; n = 57 C-ISRs asymptomatic [76%]) with a median age of 67.5 years (62.8-74.6). The initial pathologic process underlying the original stent was atherosclerosis in 33 (70%), radiation induced in 10 (21%), prior carotid endarterectomy in 4 (9%), and unknown in 28 (37%). Forty C-ISRs underwent a percutaneous intervention (19 percutaneous angioplasty only [48%]; 21 repeated stent and percutaneous angioplasty [52%]). Median follow-up for the entire cohort was 948 days (283-2322) and similar between the intervention and nonintervention arms. There were no significant differences between the arms with respect to age ( P = .16), medical comorbidities ( P > .05), original stent type ( P = .46), or clopidogrel use ( P = .74). At 30 days, there was one stroke and subsequent death in the intervention arm and none in the nonintervention arm. During the follow-up period, a median of 1.0 procedure was required to maintain patency. By Kaplan-Meier analysis, there were no statistically significant differences between the intervention and nonintervention arms with respect to stroke/death/MI as a composite or any of the individual components at last follow-up ( P = .82). Kaplan-Meier estimated patency was not significantly superior in the intervention vs the nonintervention arm (8.0 years ± 1.1 vs 5.3 years ± 0.7; P = .14). Conclusions Over 13 years, percutaneous interventions for ≥50% C-ISR were safe and durable. However, interventions fail to improve long-term stroke/death/MI or patency rates relative to nonintervention. Intervention for C-ISR may not be necessary, although future appropriately powered, prospective trials will be necessary to confirm these findings and to determine the appropriateness of interventions for C-ISR.