cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Characteristics of systemic antibody responses of nonhuman primates to cell envelope and cell wall antigens from periodontal pathogens.

The immune response of the primate, Macaca fascicularis, to cell envelope (CEA) or cell wall (CWA) antigens of several periodontal pathogens was examined to develop a strategy to interfere with ligature-induced periodontitis. Animals were parenterally immunized with CEA of either Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia or a combination of CEA/CWA of Campylobacter rectus, Fusobac-terium nucleatum and Actinomyces viscosus. Serum samples were taken every 2–4 weeks over a 4-month period, which included a 13-week interval with molar teeth ligated. All of the nonhuman primates in the study exhibited baseline levels of IgG, IgM and IgA antibody to formalinized whole cells of the bacteria. These levels increased significantly following immunization and were elevated above baseline throughout the remainder of the experiment. The largest change in antibody responses was seen in IgA antibody levels to P. gingivalis and C. rectus (42-fold above baseline), IgM antibody to P. intermedia, (41-fold increase) and IgG antibody to F. nucleatum and A. viscosus (32 and 63-fold increases). Moreover, the nonhuman primates exhibited differences in isotope response levels to whole microorganisms compared with the cell envelope antigens. These findings demonstrate the capacity of these nonhuman primates to produce an active immune response to microorganisms chronically colonizing the subgingival microbiota. Additionally, it appears that the bacteria may exhibit some unique differences in their immunogenicity as detected by the nonhuman primate and may contribute to the ability of the immune responses to effectively interact with these pathogens.
A modified stepping-stone model of population structure in red drum, Sciaenops ocellatus (Sciaenidae), from the northern Gulf of Mexico

Genetic studies of population or ‘stock’ structure in exploited marine fishes typically are designed to determine whether geographic boundaries useful for conservation and management planning are identifiable. Implicit in many such studies is the notion that subpopulations or stocks, if they exist, have fixed territories with little or no gene exchange between them. Herein, we review our long-term genetic studies of red drum (Sciaenops ocellatus), an estuarine-dependent sciaenid fish in the Gulf of Mexico and western Atlantic Ocean. Significant differences in frequencies of mitochondrial DNA haplotypes and of alleles at nuclear-encoded microsatellites occur among red drum sampled across the northern Gulf of Mexico. The spatial distribution of the genetic variation, however, follows a pattern of isolation-by-distance consistent with the hypothesis that gene flow occurs among subpopulations and is an inverse (and continuous) function of geographic distance. However, successful reproduction and recruitment of red drum depend on estuarine habitats that have geographically discrete boundaries. We hypothesize that population structure in red drum follows a modified one-dimensional, linear stepping-stone model where gene exchange occurs primarily (but not exclusively) between adjacent bays and estuaries distributed linearly along the coastline. Gene flow does occur among estuaries that are not adjacent but probabilities of gene exchange decrease as a function of geographic distance. Implications of our hypothesis are discussed in terms of inferences drawn from patterns of isolation-by-distance and relative to conservation and management of estuarine-dependent species like red drum. Based on estimates of the ratio of genetic effective population size and census size in red drum, observed patterns of gene flow in red drum may play a significant role in recruitment.
Motion in a Bose condensate: VIII. The electron bubble

The Bose condensate model is used to elucidate the motion of the electron bubble in superfluids. An asymptotic expansion is developed for steady subcritical flow. Numerical integration of the coupled nonlinear Schr¨ odinger equations, that describe the evolution of the wavefunctions of the Bose condensate and the impurity, is used to study the nucleation and capture of vortex rings. Because an electron bubble is made oblate by its motion relative to the condensate, the critical velocity for the vortex nucleation is reduced by about 20%, in agreement with experiments.
CARMA: Software for Continuous Affect Rating and Media Annotation

CARMA is a media annotation program that collects continuous ratings while displaying audio and video files. It is designed to be highly user-friendly and easily customizable. Based on Gottman and Levenson’s affect rating dial, CARMA enables researchers and study participants to provide moment-by-moment ratings of multimedia files using a computer mouse or keyboard. The rating scale can be configured on a number of parameters including the labels for its upper and lower bounds, its numerical range, and its visual representation. Annotations can be displayed alongside the multimedia file and saved for easy import into statistical analysis software. CARMA provides a tool for researchers in affective computing, human-computer interaction, and the social sciences who need to capture the unfolding of subjective experience and observable behavior over time.
A Sensitivity Analysis Study on the Material Properties and Process Parameters for Selective Laser Melting of Inconel 625

A prediction of the 2-D temperature profile and melt pool geometry for Selective Laser Melting (SLM) of Inconel 625 metal powder with a numerically-based approach for solving the heat conduction-diffusion equation was established in this paper. A finite element method solution of the governing equation was developed. A review of the current efforts in numerical modeling for laser-based additive manufacturing is presented. Initially, two-dimensional (2-D) temperature profiles along the scanning (x-direction) and hatch direction (y-direction) are calculated for a moving laser heat source to understand the temperature rise due to heating during SLM. The effects of varying laser power, scanning speed and the powder material’s density are analyzed. Based on the predicted temperature distributions, melt pool geometry, i.e. the locations at which melting of the powder material occurs, is determined. The results are chiefly compared against the published literature on melt pool data. The main goal of this research is to develop a computational tool with which investigation of the importance of various laser, material, and process parameters on the built dimensional quality in laser-based additive manufacturing becomes not only possible but also practical and reproducible.Copyright © 2015 by ASME
Gene Expression Profiles of Mesenchymal Stem Cells

Past studies profiling gene expression in MSCs have typically revealed a preponderance of expressed transcripts encoding structural proteins common in skeletal tissue and secreted factors that regulate hematopoiesis. Our SAGE analysis of the MSC transcriptome corroborated many of these previous findings, but also revealed that the cells express a plethora of transcripts encoding proteins involved in cell communication, motility, neural activity, angiogenesis and other biological processes that characterize marrow stroma. Therefore, the heterogeneity of the MSC transcriptome appears to reflect the nature and function of the different cell types that comprise this organ, the complexity of which is under appreciated. Our studies also indicate that the transcriptome of a clonal MSC population is characterized by a high percentage of expressed transcripts encoding proteins of an indeterminate nature. These findings reflect a basic lack of knowledge regarding the biology of MSCs, which attributes to the difficulty in ascribing a molecular phenotype to these stem cells. Comparative genomics studies indicate that transcripts uniquely expressed in MSCs include transcription factors and signalling molecules involved in limb bud morphogenesis, thereby providing clues to the regulatory mechanisms governing self-renewal and lineage commitment of MSCs. Deciphering these molecular pathways will further our understanding of the nature and biology of this unique stem cell population.
Development of tunable miniature piezoelectric-based scanners validated by the combination of two scanners in a direct image relay technique

Miniature piezoelectric actuators are commonly used as a compact means to relay images for numerous endoscopic applications. These scanners normally consist of an electrically driven lead zirconate titanate (PZT) tube that oscillates an optical fiber at its resonant frequency. The diameter and length of the PZT and fiber, the attachment of the fiber to the PZT, as well as the driving signal determine the main characteristics of the scan—frequency and amplitude of vibration. We present a new, robust, and repeatable method for producing miniature PZT actuators. The described technology allows for continuous tuning of the scanner mechanical properties during the assembly stage, enabling adjustment of resonant frequency and subsequent amplitude of vibration without a priori knowledge of the fiber’s mechanical properties. The method consists of manufacturing high-precision fiber-holding plastic inserts with diamond turning lathes that allow for the fiber length to be quickly varied and locked during operation in order to meet the preferred performance. This concept of tuned PZTs was demonstrated with an imaging technique that combined two scanners oscillating in unison at the ends of a single optical fiber to relay images without the need to correlate the driving signal with a detector.
Project Contracting Strategies for Managing Team Dynamics

In this chapter we study a team dynamic problem in which a group of agents collaborate over time to complete a project. The project progresses at a rate that depends on the agents’ efforts, and it generates a payoff upon completion. First, we show that agents work harder the closer the project is to completion, and members of a larger team work harder than members of a smaller team—both individually and on aggregate—if and only if the project is sufficiently far from completion. Second, we analyze the problem faced by a manager who is the residual claimant of the project and she chooses the size of the team and the agents’ incentive contracts to maximize her discounted payoff. We show that the optimal symmetric contract compensates the agents only upon completion of the project. Finally, we endogenize the size of the project, where a bigger project is one that requires greater cumulative effort and generates a larger upon completion. We show that if the manager can commit to her optimal project size at the outset of the game, then she will choose a smaller project relative to the case without commitment. An implication of this result is that without commitment, the manager is better off delegating the decision rights over the project size to the agents.
Research and development in environmental microbiology.

(1968). Research and Development in Environmental Microbiology. Archives of Environmental Health: An International Journal: Vol. 17, No. 6, pp. 979-983.
Rapid determination of fibrinogen by thrombokinetics.

We have demonstrated that under specific conditions the maximal rate of change in optical density (Vmax∆OD) of plasma resulting from addition of thrombin with subsequent conversion of fibrinogen to fibrin is directly related to the concentration of clottable fibrinogen. Plasma fibrinogen concentration determined in seconds by this thrombokinetic analysis correlated significantly (r > 0.95, p < 0.001) with fibrinogen quantitation measured by desiccated clot weight and by biuret digestion of a thrombin-induced fibrin clot.
Muscle proteinases and their possible roles in muscle growth and meat texture.

Matsubara, H. (1970) Methods Enzymol. 19.642-650 Murphy, G. & Sellars, A. (1980) in Collagenase in Normal and Pathological Connective Tissues (Woolley, D. E. & Evanson. J. M., eds.), pp. 65-82 Wiley, Chichester Otsuka, Y. & Goll, D. E. (1980) Fed. Proc. Fed. Am. Soc. Exp. Biol. 39,2044 Puizdar, V. & Turk, V. (198 1) FEES Lett. 132,299-304 Rifkin, D. B., Gross, J. L., Moscatelli, D. & Gabrielides, C. (1981)
The passenger in difficult labor.

Abnormal labor may result from the size, presentation or position of the passenger in the process of parturition. Fetal size seems more important than either contracted pelvis or uterine inertia as a cause of dystocia. Analyses of two studies of difficult labor indicate the need for careful and judicious liberalization of the use of cesarean section to improve the perinatal survival rate.
224 VALIDATION OF TRIAXIAL ACCELEROMETER AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY MONITORING IN CHILDREN.

Background Accelerometers are used to objectively measure the physical activity of adults. Data on the use of accelerometers in children have been limited. Purpose To validate a triaxial accelerometer in physical activity measurement in children and to use accelerometers to monitor daily activity level of healthy children in their natural environment. Methods For accelerometer validation, 10 subjects (ages 9-16) performed a treadmill test using the Bruce Protocol. Activity count (counts per minute or cpm), oxygen consumption (VO2) values were collected and metabolic equivalent (MET) values were calculated. For physical activity monitoring, 14 healthy children (ages 8-14) wore an accelerometer 24 hours per day for 7 consecutive days to track minute-by-minute physical activity level. For each subject, three complete (24 hours) weekdays and two weekend days were selected for analysis. Results In accelerometer validation, we found strong correlation between activity counts and physical exertion by METs (r = .97, p = .001). Moderate activity level of 8 METs is equivalent to an activity count of 2,000 cpm. In activity monitoring, the mean age was 11 years. Overall activity was 327 ± 24 cpm. Day time activity was 510 ± 32 cpm. Nighttime activity was 13 ± 2 cpm. The subjects were more active during the weekday than weekend (372 ± 30 cpm vs 291 ± 27 cpm, p = .04). Conclusions Accelerometry is a valid objective measure of children9s physical activity.
Importance on the of Construction Engineering Designing Management

Design management is an important point that link between the past and future in project management,design is the bridge to connect the owner's requirement and on site construction,which have great impact for quality,schedule,price and owner's function requirements of the whole project,according to design management we can deepen targets as well instruct construction.So design management is one of the key indexes of success and failure for project.
Fate of S2-Alar-Iliac Screws After 12-Month Minimum Radiographic Follow-up: Preliminary Results

Background S2-alar-iliac (S2AI) screws are 1 technique for lumbopelvic fixation to improve fusion rates across the lumbosacral junction that has gained wider acceptance. The S2AI screw crosses the cortical surfaces of the sacroiliac joint (SIJ), which may improve the biomechanical strength of the instrumentation. Objective To report preliminary radiographic outcomes of patients who underwent lumbopelvic fixation with S2AI screws with a minimum 12-month follow-up. Methods We retrospectively reviewed adult patients who underwent lumbopelvic fixation with S2AI screws. Patients with computed tomography (CT) scans obtained preoperatively and ≥12 months postoperatively were reviewed to determine whether there was S2AI screw backout or breakage, periscrew lucency, or SIJ degeneration, and to assess L5-S1 fusion status. Results Twenty-six S2AI screws in 13 patients were evaluated (mean follow-up 24.8 months [14-52 months]). Nine patients had L5-S1 interbody grafts. Partial periscrew lucency was identified in 7 S2AI screws (27%) in 5 patients (38%), and L5-S1 fusion occurred in 92% of patients. L5-S1 nonunion was seen in 1 patient (8%), who had evidence of bilateral screw loosening in the sacral portion. Four patients with screw loosening had an osseous L5-S1 fusion. No patients had radiographic evidence of progression of SIJ degeneration, experienced screw backout or breakage, required reoperation for L5-S1 nonunion, or had S2AI screw-related complication. Conclusion S2AI screws maintained their integrity without causing SIJ degeneration or major screw-related complications in this small retrospective series with short follow-up. Long-term results are needed to evaluate the durability of S2AI screws over time.
The Fit Family Challenge: A Primary Care Childhood Obesity Pilot Intervention

Background Childhood obesity has increased dramatically over several decades, and the American Academy of Pediatrics has recommended primary care practices as ideal sites for the identification, education, and implementation of therapeutic interventions. The objective of this study was to describe the implementation and results for the Fit Family Challenge (FFC), a primary care-based childhood obesity intervention. Methods A single-intervention pilot project that trains primary care practices on childhood obesity guidelines and implementation of a family-focused behavior modification curriculum. A total of 29 family medicine and pediatric community practices in Colorado participated. Participants included 290 patients, aged 6 to 12 years, with a body mass index (BMI) above the 85th percentile. The main outcome measure included the feasibility of implementation of a childhood obesity program in primary care; secondary outcomes were changes in BMI percentile, BMI z-scores, blood pressure, and changes in lifestyle factors related to childhood obesity. Results Implementation of FFC is feasible, statically significant changes were seen for decreases in BMI percentile and BMI z-scores for participants who completed 9 to 15 months of follow-up; lifestyle factors related to childhood obesity in proved Spanish-speaking families and food insecurity were associated with less follow-up time (P Conclusions A primary care-based childhood obesity intervention may result in significant clinical and lifestyle changes.
Computational Gene Identification: Under the Hood

Publisher Summary This chapter reviews the computational techniques for identifying genes in DNA sequences for the scientific layman and describes the working principles, the capabilities, and the limitations of gene identification software. Some attention is also given to likely future developments. The emphasis is on eukaryotes, as in this application domain the problem is of the most interest and difficulty. Two types of computational analysis are normally performed on essentially every newly determined DNA sequence. The first is a database search to compare the new sequence with existing collections (nucleotide sequence, amino acid sequence, or motif). The second, the topic of this study, is a search for protein-coding regions or genes. The chapter describes the three primary means of gathering clues about the existence, location, and function of genes, namely, database similarity search, statistical regularities of coding regions, and pattern recognition of functional sites. The purpose in this review is to provide an overview of these techniques for the person who would like to understand, at a high level, how computational gene identification is done.
Fusion-Evaporation Reactions

By far the most isotopes were discovered in heavy-ion fusion-evaporation reactions. Including the superheavy isotopes discussed in Chaps. 5 and 12 more than 700 isotopes were observed for the first time following the fusion of heavy ions. They were primarily identified by their characteristic decay radiation. The various detection techniques for measuring \(\mathrm {\alpha }\)- and \(\mathrm {\beta }\)-particles, as well as \(\mathrm {\gamma }\)-rays and delayed protons are described in the chapter.
Bridging Locoregional Therapy Prolongs Survival in Patients Listed for Liver Transplant with Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Background and Aims To evaluate the long-term survival benefit of bridging locoregional therapy (LRT) prior to orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) within Milan criteria.
Establishment of the Vertebrate Germ Layers

The process of germ layer formation is a universal feature of animal development. The germ layers separate the cells that produce the internal organs and tissues from those that produce the nervous system and outer tissues. Their discovery in the early nineteenth century transformed embryology from a purely descriptive field into a rigorous scientific discipline, in which hypotheses could be tested by observation and experimentation. By systematically addressing the questions of how the germ layers are formed and how they generate overall body plan, scientists have made fundamental contributions to the fields of evolution, cell signaling, morphogenesis, and stem cell biology. At each step, this work was advanced by the development of innovative methods of observing cell behavior in vivo and in culture. Here, we take an historical approach to describe our current understanding of vertebrate germ layer formation as it relates to the long-standing questions of developmental biology. By comparing how germ layers form in distantly related vertebrate species, we find that highly conserved molecular pathways can be adapted to perform the same function in dramatically different embryonic environments.
Force-enhanced atomic refinement: Structural modeling with interatomic forces in a reverse Monte Carlo approach applied to amorphous Si and SiO 2

We introduce a structural modeling technique, called force-enhanced atomic refinement (FEAR). The technique incorporates interatomic forces in reverse Monte Carlo (RMC) simulations for structural refinement by fitting experimental diffraction data using the conventional RMC algorithm, and minimizes the total energy and forces from an interatomic potential. We illustrate the usefulness of the approach by studying $a\text{\ensuremath{-}}{\text{SiO}}_{2}$ and $a\text{\ensuremath{-}}\text{Si}$. The structural and electronic properties of the FEAR models agree well with experimental neutron and x-ray diffraction data and the results obtained from previous molecular dynamics simulations of $a\text{\ensuremath{-}}{\text{SiO}}_{2}$ and $a\text{\ensuremath{-}}\text{Si}$. We have shown that the method is more efficient than the conventional molecular dynamics simulations via ``melt quench.'' The computational time in FEAR has been observed to scale quadratically with the number of atoms.
How Social Information Networks Reflect Major Life Events: Case of Childbirth

Social information networks, such as Twitter and Facebook provide powerful tools for individuals to share thoughts, opinions, and emotions as well as to create and maintain social ties. Considerable research in the recent past has focused on the understanding of large-scale social processes enabled by the availability of data derived from content and activity on social networks, spanning multiple domains including finance, politics, epidemiology and public health, marketing, and crisis mitigation. Beyond exploration and inferences about population-scale dynamics and phenomena, social information networks can also provide insights at an individual scale about evolution and changes of intentions, language, mood, and behavior. As increasingly large numbers of people have been using social information networks over time scales measured in years, these networks can serve as windows onto a variety of important developments in an individual’s personal life, including such events as childbirth, death of a loved one, marriage, divorce, loss of a job, and traumatic experiences such as an accident or a disaster event. From a research perspective, this allows for nuanced individual-level behavioral analyses in a longitudinal manner; over time scales long enough to include periods before and after one or more major life events. In this light, we explore the harnessing of social information networks as a lens on behavioral changes of individuals around a particular major life event: childbirth. Having a baby is a major life event that creates significant changes in the lives of new mothers. Sleep and daily routines are disrupted, and adjustments must be made in personal and professional lives.
Observing conversational laughter in frontotemporal dementia

Background We performed an observational study of laughter during seminaturalistic conversations between patients with dementia and familial caregivers. Patients were diagnosed with (1) behavioural variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD), (2) right temporal variant frontotemporal dementia (rtFTD), (3) semantic variant of primary progressive aphasia (svPPA), (4) non-fluent variant primary progressive aphasia (nfvPPA) or (5) early onset Alzheimer’s disease (eoAD). We hypothesised that those with bvFTD would laugh less in response to their own speech than other dementia groups or controls, while those with rtFTD would laugh less regardless of who was speaking. Methods Patients with bvFTD (n=39), svPPA (n=19), rtFTD (n=14), nfvPPA (n=16), eoAD (n=17) and healthy controls (n=156) were recorded (video and audio) while discussing a problem in their relationship with a healthy control companion. Using the audio track only, laughs were identified by trained coders and then further classed by an automated algorithm as occurring during or shortly after the participant’s own vocalisation (9self9 context) or during or shortly after the partner’s vocalisation (9partner9 context). Results Individuals with bvFTD, eoAD or rtFTD laughed less across both contexts of self and partner than the other groups. Those with bvFTD laughed less relative to their own speech comparedwith healthy controls. Those with nfvPPA laughed more in the partner context compared with healthy controls. Conclusions Laughter in response to one’s own vocalisations or those of a conversational partner may be a clinically useful measure in dementia diagnosis.
Can Reading Strategies be Successfully Taught

The purpose of this article is to examine whether and how reading strategies can be successfully taught in second or foreign language reading instruction. A number of researchers agree that it is important for second or foreign language readers to become ‘strategic’ readers. Yet, there is disagreement among these same researchers as to how to accomplish this goal. Part of the problem is that there are no inherently ‘good’ or ‘bad’ reading strategies. What is a good strategy in one situation for one reader, may be a bad strategy in a different situation or for a different reader. Successful and unsuccessful strategy use is apparently context and text dependent. In this article I present a comprehensive survey of the research which has been done on reading strategy training, and confront the critical issue of how to make reading strategy instruction appropriately text and context sensitive rather than the mindless teaching of lists of strategies.
Rubber and phytochemical specialities from desert plants of North America

The investigation of under-utilized desert plants, native to the southwestern United States, Baja California and Chihuahua, Mexico, as alternative sources of rubber and phytochemicals, is gaining importance as arid zones increase in area. A significant number of flowering plants, native and common to arid environments, synthesize a variety of organic substances which are suitable substitutes for petroleum-based chemicals (Rodriguez 1980). These natural resources range from rubber polymers and oligomers to biologically active benzofurans, sesquiterpene lactones and phenolics. In North America, about 25 per cent of the United States is semi-arid to arid, while in Mexico, approximately 46 per cent is dryland (Becker et al 1984). Two desert regions which are of great importance to the United States and Mexico, are the Chihuahuan and Sonoran Deserts. Both regions have many unique and endemic plant species that produce significant quantities of organic substances that are economically useful to human communities living in marginal arid lands.
The Individual and the Group as Seen by the Therapist

At such times as this in my professional career, I see myself awkwardly astride two worlds--the therapeutic world of the individual and that of the group--and conscious of the precariousness of my position. Theoretically, practically and temperamentally, I am ready to fall between the two and cultivate an “in-betweenness” that freely acknowledges the assets and liabilities from both sides. Unlike Buridan’s Ass, I have been able to consider with clinical impartiality the attractive opportunities offered by one and the other, taking a little hay from each. In this, I am very much a child of my time, reconciled to the inevitable controversies that punctuated the growth of knowledge and praxis in the therapeutic field, and to resolve antitheses dialectically. I have learned to sleep comfortably and eclectically with a variety of bedfellows, not all of equal worth and not all to be embraced.
Long range, non-destructive characterization of GaN substrates for power devices

Abstract It has been well established that GaN grown on native substrates yields higher quality films compared to those grown on non-native substrates, such as SiC or Si. However, homoepitaxy is hindered by the lack of inexpensive high-quality GaN substrates. The importance of substrate quality, in particular defects and impurities, arises from its impact on device performance. Many of the imperfections in GaN substrates are inhomogeneous, thus are often not detected when short-range techniques are used.Therefore, methods for evaluating substrate quality over long ranges need to be developed. This research reports the study of these defects on four different GaN wafers from four different vendors using quick, long-range, non-destructive techniques that can be performed in a few hours. All samples are expected to be n+ and should theoretically be suited for use in GaN homoepitaxial vertical power devices, though had different properties that could impact device performance. Through evaluation by Raman spectroscopy, photoluminescence, white light optical profilometry, and Nomarski imaging concentrations of grain boundaries, impurity incorporations, point defects, v-shaped cone defects, polishing defects, crystal stress damage, and insulating and conductive regions were identified across the various GaN substrates studied.
Leadership Coaching and Mentoring: A Research-Based Model for School Partnerships

This conceptual article proposes a research-based model for leadership preparation programs to more effectively prepare, support, and sustain new school leaders in the field and profession. This study offers a new construct, which combines the concepts of early field experiences, experiential learning, leadership-focused coaching, and mentoring support, with university faculty and school district leaders and mentors working collaboratively to support novice leaders. University faculty would provide leadership-focused coaching while prospective leaders are completing coursework and later once they are placed in school leadership positions. Further, school districts would provide mentoring support by experienced instructional leaders.
Abstract 538: Reduced Protein and mRNA Levels of Velosin Containing Protein in Left Ventricular Myocardium of Dogs With Advanced Heart Failure Are Restored Following Chronic Therapy With Elamipretide

Introduction: The failing heart manifests abnormalities of mitochondrial function characterized by reduced respiration, reduced membrane potential and opening of permeability transition pore (mPTP)...
Time-Dependent Association of Renal Function with Long-Term Survival Following LVAD Implantation

Purpose Renal dysfunction prior to left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation is associated with increased mortality. However, there are limited data regarding the association between changes in renal function after LVAD placement and long-term survival. Methods We studied 211 patients who survived >1 year after continuous-flow LVAD implantation at a single center. Patients were divided into 4 groups based on estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥ 60 (good) or Results Patients (age 56.8 ± 12.1 years, 83.4% male) were supported by a LVAD for 3.5 ± 1.8 years. Among patients with low preoperative eGFR, 30% improved and had good eGFR at 1-year (Group 3). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that the lowest mortality rates were experienced by Group 3 patients in whom at 1-year renal function improved (5-year mortality: 23%), whereas the highest mortality rates were observed among Group 2 and 4 patients in whom 1-year renal function worsened or remained low (5-year mortality: 72% and 61%, respectively; log-rank p=0.017 for the overall survival difference among the 4 groups [Figure]). Consistently, multivariate analysis showed that patients in whom renal function improved experienced a 44% reduction in risk of long-term mortality (HR=0.54, 95% CI 0.29-0.98, p=0.043) compared to those in whom renal function worsened. Conclusion Approximately one third of patients with low renal function prior to LVAD implantation improve their renal function 1-year after LVAD placement. These patients demonstrate higher long-term survival rates compared to patients who worsen or in whom renal function remains low. Our findings suggest that continuous assessment of renal function can be used for time-dependent risk stratification in LVAD patients.
Open-source Python software for analysis of 3D kinematics from quadrupedal animals

Abstract Locomotion is key to survival, yet it can be disturbed by injuries, diseases, and aging. Therefore, it is important for researchers in biology, neuroscience, biomechanics, and further afield. Locomotion is frequently quantified using kinematic data, and quadrupeds including rodents are medical model animals used worldwide. Kinematics typically result from the tracking of some landmarks, often joint centers. Although commercially available systems and software exist for the analysis of these kinematic data, they are expensive, often restricted to use with a given apparatus, and may be inextensible. Therefore, there is a need for an open source tool to analyze kinematic data. We present a Python software to address this need. It uses 2D coordinates from four cameras and DLT coefficients from the calibrated volume to generates 3D coordinates [1] . A method is presented to modify the knee and elbow joint positions in 3D. Then, kinematic features are extracted, and they are sorted in a time series format to plot a summary of a study. In addition, we generate videos from the tracked points, 3D reconstruction of the points, showing joint angles for eight joints, the location of animal on the belt, and the animal's speed on the belt. The software has been evaluated by eight trials to show the importance of the work. The 3D reconstruction error, having an average of 7.36 pixels, was calculated for the markers. The presented program can be used in different fields. It will encourage the researchers to design the studies based on their needs because they can change the setup in any required conditions while they can extract the kinematic data.
Modeling the effect of climate change on building energy demand in Los Angeles county by using a GIS-based high spatial- and temporal-resolution approach

Abstract Climate change affects the demands for heating and cooling in buildings. This study proposed a GIS-based approach to combine climate modeling, building energy simulation, and inventory of building characteristics to quantify climate change's effect on building energy demand in Los Angeles, California. The impact was assessed by comparing building energy demands under current and future climate conditions through two metrics: relative change (RC) and absolute difference (AD), in annual, monthly, and diurnal scales under A1F1 and A2 emission scenarios. A spatial analysis was performed to assess neighborhoods vulnerable to climate change. Results suggest that most building types showed an apparent increase of energy demands under both scenarios. The increase of cooling energy demand resulted in great changes in RC and AD. Larger changes were observed at finer time scales. The energy demand for buildings increased from April to October, but decreased from November to March. The largest positive AD of total energy for all building types occurred in August, ranging 1.8–30.9 MJ/sqm, but the characteristics of diurnal AD varied with building types. Areas with dense tall commercial buildings would foresee the largest increase in energy demand. Our approach can foresee the sensitivity of building energy demands at different spatio-temporal scales.
Developmental stage of onset, poly-victimization, and persistence of childhood victimization: impact on adult well-being in a rural community-based study

The current study examines the persistence of victimization and poly-victimization (i.e., count of multiple types of victimization) across various stages of development (ages 0-5, 6-12, and 13-18) and the related impact on adult well-being. Participants were 2,098 adults from the Appalachian region of three Southern states. Eighty-two percent of participants reported at least one type of victimization during childhood. Among adult victims, 22.6% reported one victimization in one developmental stage (i.e., one stage, but no poly-victimization), 45.8% reported one victimization in more than one stage (i.e., persistent victimization, but no poly-victimization), 20.5% reported multiple types of victimization in one stage (i.e., poly-victimization), and 11.2% reported multiple types of victimization at more than one stage (i.e., persistent poly-victimization). Results indicated a linear decline in subjective well-being, mental health, and number of healthy days as victimization becomes more persistent across childhood and more diverse in types (i.e., poly-victimization). Study findings provide support for models of victimization that take both developmental trajectories and poly-victimization into account.
Karl Barth’s Christology and Jan Christian Smuts’ Human Rights Rhetoric

South African statesman Jan Christian Smuts’ (1870–1950) domestic and international politics diverge greatly; his domestic policy has been eschewed as a precursor to apartheid (1948–1994), but his international policy heralded for advancing human rights rhetoric because he authored the charters for both the League of Nations (1920) and United Nations (1945). Scholars struggle to reconcile these seemingly conflicting legacies. WEB du Bois, Peder Anker, and Saul Dubow suggest that Smuts embodies capitalist greed, bad science, and redefined political terms. I argue that Karl Barth’s theology adroitly illuminates the problem of empire for Smuts and present day appeals to human rights rhetoric. Barth’s theology poses a three-fold challenge to Smuts. First, Barth articulates a critique of natural theology found embedded within Smuts’ philosophy of holism; second, Barth critiques liberal politics that Smuts typifies; and, third, Barth’s refusal to side with Eastern or Western empires runs counter to Smuts’ imperial sensibilities. Ultimately, I argue that Barth’s Christology offers a constructive alternative vision for sociality.
Crystallization kinetics of pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN) thin films on various materials

Abstract The nature of the crystal growth process in explosives can dramatically impact their safety and performance. Thin films are a commonly used tool for investigating the fundamental crystallization behavior in many systems, and the interfacial physics between a crystallizing species and the substrate can significantly affect many factors associated with the crystal growth process. In this work, atmospheric vapor deposition was used to prepare thin films of supercooled PETN droplets on the surfaces of copper, gold, and silicon. The gold and copper surfaces were prepared on silicon substrates using ultra-high vacuum vapor deposition. Crystallization of the supercooled PETN droplets was induced by scanning the surface of each substrate type with an atomic force microscope upon which crystallization occurred in the form of compact, circularly shaped dendrites reminiscent of spherulites. All three substrates were characterized relative to their respective surface roughness and surface energy. The surface energy was assessed from contact angle measurements with three liquids: water, ethylene glycol, and dodecane. High-resolution, time-lapse images of the crystal growth process were acquired under high magnification on each material surface, and the crystal growth rates were measured based on the radial distance of “ring” features that appeared in the crystal growth patterns after inducing changes in the substrate temperature. The growth rates were used to determine the Arrhenius activation energy of crystal growth on each surface, and the results indicate that there is a significant correlation between the surface energy and the crystallization behavior of the supercooled PETN droplets.
Limited-Angle 3-D Reconstructions Using Fourier Transform Iterations And Radon Transform Iterations

The principles of limited-angle reconstruction of space-limited objects using the concepts of "allowed cone" and "missing cone" in Fourier space are discussed. The distortion of a point source resulting from setting the Fourier components in the missing cone to zero has been calculated mathematically, and its bearing on the convergence of an iteration scheme involving Fourier transforms has been analysed in detail. It was found that the convergence rate is fairly insensitive to the position of the point source within the boundary of the object, apart from an edge effect which tends to enhance some parts of the boundary in reconstructing the object. Another iteration scheme involving Radon transforms was introduced and compared to the Fourier transform method in such areas as root mean square error, stability with respect to noise, and computer reconstruction time.© (1980) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
In vivo three-dimensional knee kinematics in goats with unilateral anterior cruciate ligament transection

Although the goat is an established animal model in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) research, in vivo kinematics associated with ACL deficiency have not been previously described in this species. Three-dimensional knee kinematics were determined before and after unilateral ACL transection in eight goats. Fluoroscopic imaging of the knees during treadmill walking and force-platform gait analysis during over-ground walking were performed prior to ACL transection, and 2 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months after ACL transection. Transient lameness of the ACL-transected limb was noted in all goats but resolved by 3 months post-ACL transection. Increased extension of 8.7° to 17.0° was noted throughout the gait cycle in both the ACL-transected and the contralateral unaffected knees by 3 months post-ACL transection, in a bilaterally symmetric pattern. Peak anterior tibial translation increased by 3 to 6 mm after ACL transection and persisted over the 6-month study period. No changes in axial rotation or abduction angle were observed after ACL transection. Unilateral ACL deficiency in goats resulted in persistent kinematic alterations, despite the resolution of lameness by 3 months post-ACL transection.
Abstract #3215: Characterization of breast cancer and disseminated medulloblastoma leptomeningeal tumor models

INTRODUCTION. Seeding of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and leptomeninges by human tumor cells is associated with hydrocephalus and poor prognosis. CSF tumor spread is most commonly found in breast carcinoma in adults, and medulloblastoma in children. We evaluated breast cancer and medulloblastoma leptomeningeal (LM) tumor models as assessed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), histology, and survival. METHODS. MDA-MB231BR human breast carcinoma cells expressing HER2 (1 x 106 cells) and DAOY human medulloblastoma cells (1.5 x 106 or 5 x 106) were injected into the right lateral cerebral ventricle or the cisterna magna of adult female or male nude rats, respectively. Animals underwent weekly MRI (T2-weighted and T1-weighted with or without gadolinium). Ventricular volume and ventricular/cerebral ratio were measured as markers of hydrocephalus. Rat brains were harvested 1-4 weeks after tumor cell injection, or followed for survival, and coronal sections were evaluated by histology and immunohistochemistry for tumor markers. RESULTS. Standard MRI did not demonstrate enhancing or non-enhancing tumor nodules in either LM model, similar to what is seen clinically. MRI with iron oxide nanoparticles at 12 tesla showed evidence of inflammatory infiltration in the brain stem in the breast cancer LM model. In this model, rats showed clinical symptoms by 2 weeks post inoculation and survival time was 20 ± 2.5 days (n = 16). Mild hydrocephalus was detected on histology in 7 of 16 animals at sacrifice while the remaining animals showed no ventricular enlargement. In the medulloblastoma LM model, moderate to severe hydrocephalus was detected within 1 week in 15/23 rats, suggesting that DAOY cells in the CSF space interfere with CSF clearance. The time course and magnitude of hydrocephalus formation correlated with the time from injection. Despite extensive hydrocephalus, survival in the medulloblastoma model was at least 4-6 weeks. In both models, tumor cells were found disseminated throughout the leptomeningeal CSF space, with tumor growth along the leptomeninges of the brain stem and around the anterior spinal cord beneath the cerebellar folia, with some vascular invasion. CONCLUSION. This radiographic and histological analysis demonstrates that the breast cancer and disseminated medulloblastoma LM tumor models are clinically relevant, with diffuse leptomeningeal tumor spread and absence of enhancing or non-enhancing tumor nodules on MRI. The models showed marked differences in terms of hydrocephalus, survival, and inflammatory infiltration. Citation Information: In: Proc Am Assoc Cancer Res; 2009 Apr 18-22; Denver, CO. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; 2009. Abstract nr 3215.
On the growth of Rankin-Selberg L-functions for $SL(2)$

In this paper, we establish bounds of the Rankin-Selberg $L$-function for $SL(2)$ using the supnorm of the Eisenstein series and a purely representation theoretic index over the real group. Consequently, we obtain a subconvexity bound $L(\frac{1}{2}+ it, f_1 \times f_2) \leq C (1+ |t|)^{\frac{5}{6}+\epsilon}$ for two Maass cusp forms of $SL(2, \mathbb Z)$.
Dimerization of 2-Ethylhexylphosphonic Acid Mono-2-ethylhexyl Ester (HEH[EHP]) as Determined by NMR Spectrometry

The aggregation state of extractant molecules is an important consideration in characterizing or modeling solvent extraction systems used in hydrometallurgy. For example, previously reported effort...
Mutation operators for Genetic Programming using Monte Carlo Tree Search

Abstract Expansion is a novel mutation operator for Genetic Programming (GP). It uses Monte Carlo simulation to repeatedly expand and evaluate programs using unit instructions, which extends the search beyond the immediate – often misleading – horizon of offspring programs. To evaluate expansion, a standard Koza-style tree-based representation is used and a comparison is carried out between expansion and sub-tree crossover as well as point mutation. Using a diverse set of benchmark symbolic regression problems, we prove that expansion provides for better fitness performance than point mutation, when included with crossover. Expansion also provides a significant boost to fitness when compared to GP using crossover only, with similar or lower levels of program bloat. Despite expansion’s success in improving evolutionary performance, it does not eliminate the problem of program bloat. In response, an analogous genetic operator, reduction, is proposed and tested for its ability to keep a check on program size. We conclude that the best fitness can be achieved by including these three operators in GP: crossover, point mutation and expansion.