cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Properties and Performance of Newly Developed Demulsifiers in Oil Sands Froth Treatment

Chemical demulsification with EO-PO block copolymers is widely employed to treat bitumen froth in oil sands operations. In this effort, the relation between demulsifier properties and demulsification efficiency was explored using three EO-PO block copolymer demulsifiers, DMO A, DMO B, and DMO C. The EO-PO block copolymers were categorized by their relative solubility number (RSN) and dynamic interfacial tension (IFT). The dewatering and solids removal efficiencies of EO-PO block copolymer demulsifiers were in the order DMO C > DMO B > DMO A from 0 to 50 ppm dosage at 30 min settling time. DMO C also showed superior performance with lower hydrocarbon losses to the underflow as compared to demulsifiers DMO A and DMO B at all the dosages studied. The direct correlation was observed between the RSN values and dewatering/solids removal performance while the IFT does not correlate to the dewatering/solids removal efficacy of the EO-PO block copolymer demulsifiers. The influence of operating conditions such as p...
Poor Outcomes in Hepatic Amyloidosis: A Report of 2 Cases

Hepatic amyloidosis is a rare disease entity that results from insoluble amyloid protein deposition in the liver. The disease often presents with vague, nonspecific clinical features. Currently, there is little literature describing treatment outcomes for biopsy-proven hepatic amyloidosis and current treatment guidelines recommend that patients enroll in a clinical trial due to insufficient evidence to suggest an optimal treatment regimen. Here, we present two cases of hepatic amyloidosis at an academic medical center and describe their presentation, treatment, and outcomes. These cases highlight the poor outcomes and difficult management of hepatic amyloidosis. Further understanding and investigation of this rare disease are warranted.
Parallel Search for Multi-Modal FunctionOptimization with Diversity and Learningof Immune Algorithm

Immune System in the higher mammal has interesting characteristics and powerful abilities from the information view points, such as recognition of antigen, production of antibody and learning with memory cell. This paper proposes an optimization algorithm imitating the immune system to solve the multi-modal function optimization problem partly using a genetic algorithm. The proposed algorithm is shown to be effective for searching for a set of solutions as well as local solutions. The illustrative examples are shown for multi-modal functions such as multi-peaks function and Shubert function.
THYMOSIN-INDUCED ENHANCEMENT OF MIF PRODUCTION BY PERIPHERAL BLOOD LYMPHOCYTES OF THYMECTOMIZED GUINEA PIGS

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses thymosin-induced enhancement of inhibitory factor (MIF) production by peripheral blood lymphocytes of thymectomized guinea pigs. In a study described in the chapter, outbred guinea pigs were injected intradermally with 0.1 ml of Freund's complete adjuvant containing 10 μg of the batch of preservative-free PPD (Parke–Davis) that would be used in vitro as the antigen. Ten days later, the animals were thymectomized. Animals were bled by cardiac puncture 24 or 48 h postsurgery, and the mononuclear cells were obtained by centrifuging the blood through a Ficoll-metrizoate gradient at 400 × g for 40 min. These cells were washed twice in medium containing 100 μg/ml streptomycin and 100 U/ml penicillin. Peritoneal exudate cells were obtained from a non-sensitized guinea pig injected intraperitoneally 2 days previously with 20–30 ml of sterile thioglycollate medium. The PBL were mixed with the PEC at the 1:9 ratio, and a MIF assay was performed. Thymosin fraction 5 at 50 μg/ml and 100 μg/ml was sufficient to restore the thymectomized guinea pigs' response to PPD. Fraction 5 at 10 μg/ml was not sufficient.
Multiplicity of shape selection in functionally graded liquid crystalline polymers

The synergy of through-thickness gradation in the orientation of the molecular director and the extent of polymerization is shown to offer a framework for controlling shape selection in integral polymer films. Native curvatures are realized under ambient conditions in splayed liquid crystalline polymers that are photopolymerized on anchoring surfaces, while being exposed to the atmosphere. Residual multiaxial polymerization strains drive the spontaneous assembly of a range of geometries (tape springs, helical coils and arches) in strips that are excised from the as-prepared films. Gradients in the director orientation and the cross linking through the thickness enable a temperature dependent structural evolution. Following a moderate temperature rise ( 100 °C), which generates curvature orthogonal to that in the native state. This multiplicity in shape selection, which spontaneously emerges without requiring any mechanical training offers a useful framework for actuation and morphing. In a prototypical demonstration, a suitably excised sample is shown to spontaneously jump when placed on a hot-plate as a result of the eversion. Also, when confined in ring-like geometries, hinge-like structures are generated due to the interplay of the imposed bending strains with that existing in the native state. The evolution of the curvatures as a function of temperature offers control over the active hinge/fold and expands the multiplicity of shapes that can be realized.
No More Conflicting Directionality:Metrical Conditions on Tianjin Chinese Trisyllabic Tone Sandhi

Abstract Tianjin Chinese (hereafter Tianjin) exhibits complex interactions among its disyllabic tone sandhi rules, leading to both left-to-right and right-to-left rule applications in trisyllabic sequences (e.g. Chen 1986, X. Wang 2003, Lin 2008). Which directionality to adopt for each particular sequence is arbitrary and cannot be accounted for by any known principles. In addition, some disyllabic tone sandhi rules do not always apply in trisyllabic sequences. Based on the results of a multi-speaker acoustic study, we propose that both issues can be attributed to interactions of metrical structures, sandhi rules, and tonal complexity. We claim that Tianjin tone sandhi applies when both metrical and tonal complexity conditions are satisfied, thereby removing the need for conflicting directionality.
Physiatrist 2007: who are we and where are we going?

Abstract Press J. Physiatrist 2007: who are we and where are we going? The field of physical medicine and rehabilitation has evolved greatly over the last half century. Although practice patterns continue to change, the unifying concepts of physiatry remain the same. Awareness of the unique aspects of physiatry is still not optimal. It is incumbent on the physiatric community to educate our colleagues, our patients, and the public about our unique field.
Ownership concentration and market liquidity: Evidence from a natural experiment

Abstract Using the merger and acquisition activity among pension fund management companies as a natural experiment, we obtain estimates on the causal link between ownership concentration and secondary market liquidity. Our findings suggest that concentrated ownership structures, via the threat of informed trading, adversely affects stock trading activity.
The Black Perspective in Clinical Social Work

Given the persistence of oppression in contemporary society, social workers may expect to encounter social bias in the clinical setting. On the one hand, clients who identify as a member of a disadvantaged social group may report experiences of oppression accompanied by emotional, behavioral, and physical responses (Carter in Couns Psychol 35(1):13–105, 2007; Sue in Microaggressions and marginality: manifestation, dynamics, and impact, Wiley, Hoboken, 2010). On the other hand, those who are members of a historically privileged social group may present with negative affective and behavioral responses associated with prejudicial ideations towards disadvantaged social groups (Sullaway and Dunbar in Clin Psychol 3(4):296–309, 1996). This paper provides evidence from my field experiences that directly confronting social bias encountered in the clinical setting promotes client wellbeing and social justice with diverse clients. In doing so, I respond to the call for front line practitioners to share their perspectives regarding the integration of social justice and social work (Maschi et al. in J Soc Work Pract 25(2):233–253, 2011). I also elaborate on Howard University School of Social Work’s Black Perspective as a theoretical orientation for clinical social work with diverse populations (Gourdine and Brown in Howard University School of Social Work in the 1970s: social action, advocacy, and agents of change, Black Classic Press, Baltimore, 2016). Because Black perspectives are often marginalized in scholarship and practice, I hope to shed light on their critical role in addressing contemporary clinical issues (Bent-Goodley et al. in J Hum Behav Soc Environ 27(1–2):27–35, 2017; Graham in Soc Work Educ 28(3):268–280, 2009).
Value Frameworks in the Policy Analysis Course: An Application Exercise

Professors of graduate-level policy analysis courses are challenged with the task of incorporating a broader or more normatively comprehensive analytical perspective into their teaching. This artic...
Pressure Overload: Human Studies

When a pressure overload is placed on the myocardium, systolic wall stress is initially increased. The increased load, through an unknown mechanism, is a stimulus to the laying down of sarcomeres in parallel, producing concentric hypertrophy. The resulting increased wall thickness “absorbs” the increase in pressure and helps reestablish wall stress at a normal level [1, 2]. Since afterload is a key determinant of ejection performance of the ventricle, this compensation is adaptive, because by normalizing stress, ventricular ejection performance is maintained. However, when the pressure overload is severe and prolonged, muscle dysfunction may occur. Thus, pressure-overload concentric hypertrophy may be either compensatory or pathologic, depending on the clinical situation. The following is a synopsis of current knowledge regarding the effects of pressure overload and hypertrophy on the human left and right ventricles.
Coupled Diffusion-Transport Calculations of Fusion Reactor Activations

The computer time saving attainable by solving the transport equation for the higher neutron energy groups and the diffusion equation for the lower energy groups was investigated for fusion reactor safety applications. For the ARIES-I design considered, it was found that coupled diffusion-transport solutions can provide the activation rates in all the zones excluding the shield to within 2.5% and 5% when the transition to the diffusion approximation is, respectively, at 1.4 MeV and 8.8 MeV. The corresponding saving in CPU time relative to an all-transport solution is 31% and 43%. For the low order transport approximation used, this CPU time is significantly shorter than that required by ONEDANT, with its built-in diffusion synthetic acceleration.
Analysis of Image Similarity and Relationship

The ability of fluorescence microscopy to simultaneously image multiple specific molecules of interest has allowed biologists to infer macromolecular organization and colocalization in fixed and live samples. However, a number of factors could affect these analyses, and colocalization is a misnomer. We propose that image similarity coefficient as a better and more descriptive term. In this chapter we will discuss many of the factors involved with determining image similarity including our perception of color in images. In addition, the correct use of several commonly accepted methods such as Pearson’s correlation coefficient, Manders’ overlap coefficient, and Spearman’s ranked correlation coefficient is discussed.
Maternal Choline Supplementation Modulates Placental Markers of Inflammation, Angiogenesis, and Apoptosis in a Mouse Model of Placental Insufficiency

Dlx3 (distal-less homeobox 3) haploinsufficiency in mice has been shown to result in restricted fetal growth and placental defects. We previously showed that maternal choline supplementation (4X versus 1X choline) in the Dlx3+/− mouse increased fetal and placental growth in mid-gestation. The current study sought to test the hypothesis that prenatal choline would modulate indicators of placenta function and development. Pregnant Dlx3+/− mice consuming 1X (control), 2X, or 4X choline from conception were sacrificed at embryonic (E) days E10.5, E12.5, E15.5, and E18.5, and placentas and embryos were harvested. Data were analyzed separately for each gestational day controlling for litter size, fetal genotype (except for models including only +/− pups), and fetal sex (except when data were stratified by this variable). 4X choline tended to increase (p < 0.1) placental labyrinth size at E10.5 and decrease (p < 0.05) placental apoptosis at E12.5. Choline supplementation decreased (p < 0.05) expression of pro-angiogenic genes Eng (E10.5, E12.5, and E15.5), and Vegf (E12.5, E15.5); and pro-inflammatory genes Il1b (at E15.5 and 18.5), Tnfα (at E12.5) and Nfκb (at E15.5) in a fetal sex-dependent manner. These findings provide support for a modulatory effect of maternal choline supplementation on biomarkers of placental function and development in a mouse model of placental insufficiency.
Mapping the Middle East

In the book under review here, the Middle East extends from the Atlantic shores of North Africa to the Oxus and Indus rivers of southwestern Asia, an area closely associated with Islam but also hom...
New frontiers in lipidomics analyses using structurally selective ion mobility-mass spectrometry

The growth of lipidomics and the high isomeric complexity of the lipidome has revealed a need for analytical techniques capable of structurally characterizing lipids with a high degree of specificity. Lipids are morphologically diverse molecules that can exist as any one of a large number of isomeric species, and as such are often indistinguishable by mass spectrometry without a complementary separation method. Recent developments in the field of lipidomics aim to address these challenges by utilizing a combination of multiple analytical techniques which are selective to lipid primary structure. This review summarizes two emerging strategies for lipidomic analysis, namely, ion mobility-mass spectrometry and ion fragmentation via ozonolysis.
Local identity in a global city: Hong Kong localist movement on social media

ABSTRACTDespite rapid globalization, various countries witnessed a rise of social movements based on local identities in the past decade. Drawing reference from theories of cultural identity, this ...
Divination and its Potential Futures: Sensation, Scripts, and the Virtual in South Korean Eight-character Fortune Telling

Horoscopic eight-character divination (saju p’alcha) flourishes both face-to-face and online in South Korea. Contrary to a face-to-face reading, however, the fortune teller is no longer necessary i...
Using Low-Boiling Point Phase Change Contrast Agent Activation Signals for Super Resolution Ultrasound Localization Microscopy

Ultrasound (US) contrast agents can be used to generate super resolution (SR) images of the vasculature by accumulating the localizations of separable contrast signatures over tens of thousands of frames. This research presents a SR imaging method that localizes the activation signals of octafluoropropane (OFP, C3F8, -37 deg. C boiling point) phase-change contrast agents (PCCAs, or droplets), rather than microbubble signals. The unique activation signature of low-boiling point PCCAs was separated from the tissue background by frequency filtering alone. Plane-wave imaging was used to both activate droplets and image the activation signals. A low-frequency bandwidth (BW) to receive the activation signals and a high-frequency transmit BW enabled the collection of high contrast-to-tissue ratio (CTR) images which were then processed for SR. We demonstrate the application of this technique by localizing activations within a crossed microtube setup in a tissue- mimicking agar phantom kept at 37 deg. C.
Learnings, however wise

I wrote this chapter during the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020. How coincidental it is to be writing a reflective memoir at a time when it is hard to avoid reflecting. I had not thought I could tackle this project until well into the year, but sequestration at a rented house in South Carolina gave me time and so the pages multiplied in a different way. With this said, what is omitted is often the most important material for reflection - the emotional moments of childhood and the feelings that come with each turn of event. This is to be an account of things I may have learned, however “wise,” for graduate students or others who would have careers in education and psychology, so it lacks a colorful narrative. The chapter is organized as much by experience as chronology, with six key sections. Readers can find one-sentence lessons signaled by underlined material located at the start of some paragraphs within each key section.
Subcutaneous Testosterone Is Effective and Safe as Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy in Transmasculine and Gender-Diverse Adolescents and Young Adults: A Single Center's 8-Year Experience

Purpose: To describe our Center's 8-year experience with subcutaneous testosterone (SC-T) as gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) in transmasculine and gender-diverse (TM/GD) youth. Methods: An ...
Clinical Practice Statement: What is the Emergency Department Management of Patients with Angioedema Secondary to an ACE-Inhibitor?

Abstract Background Angioedema is a complication that has been reported in up to 1.0% of individuals taking angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-Is). Importantly, the onset of angioedema can occur anywhere from hours to several years after initiation of therapy with ACE-Is. Although most cases of ACE-I–induced angioedema (ACE-I-AE) are self-limiting, a major clinical concern is development of airway compromise, which can potentially require emergent airway management. The underlying pathophysiology of ACE-I-AE is incompletely understood, but is considered to be due in large part to excess bradykinin. Numerous medications have been proposed for the treatment of ACE-I-AE. This article is an update to the 2011 Clinical Practice Committee (CPC) statement from the American Academy of Emergency Medicine. Methods A literature search in PubMed was performed with search terms angioedema and ACE inhibitors from August 1, 2012 to May 13, 2019. Following CPC guidelines, articles written in English were identified and then underwent a structured review for evaluation. Results The search parameters resulted in 323 articles. The abstracts of these articles were assessed independently by the reviewers, who determined there were 63 articles that were specific to ACE-I-AE, of which 46 were deemed appropriate for grading in the final focused review. Conclusions The primary focus for the treatment of ACE-I-AE is airway management. In the absence of high-quality evidence, no specific medication therapy is recommended for its treatment. If, however, the treating physician feels the patient's presentation is more typical of an acute allergic reaction or anaphylaxis, it may be appropriate to treat for those conditions. Any patient with suspected ACE-I-AE should immediately discontinue that medication.
Reciprocal impacts of telomerase activity and tumor cell differentiation in neuroblastoma tumor biology

Telomere maintenance and tumor cell differentiation have been separately implicated in neuroblastoma malignancy. Their mechanistic connection is unclear. We analyzed neuroblastoma cell lines and morphologic subclones representing the adrenergic (ADRN) and mesenchymal (MES) differentiation states and uncovered sharp differences in their telomere protein and telomerase activity levels. Pharmacologic conversion of ADRN into MES cells elicited consistent and robust changes in the expression of telomere-related proteins. Conversely, stringent down-regulation of telomerase activity triggers the differentiation of ADRN into MES cells, which was reversible upon telomerase up-regulation. Interestingly, the MES differentiation state is associated with elevated levels of innate immunity factors, including key components of the DNA-sensing pathway. Accordingly, MES but not ADRN cells can mount a robust response to viral infections in vitro. A gene expression signature based on telomere and cell lineage-related factors can cluster neuroblastoma tumor samples into predominantly ADRN or MES-like groups, with distinct clinical outcomes. Our findings establish a novel mechanistic connection between telomere and differentiation and suggest that manipulating telomeres may suppress malignancy not only by limiting the tumor growth potential but also by inducing tumor cell differentiation and altering its immunogenicity.
Abrupt-onset, profound erectile dysfunction in a healthy young man after initiating over-the-counter omeprazole: a case report.

Proton pump inhibitors are frequently used (and often overused) medications with adverse effects including vitamin B12 deficiency, Clostridium difficile colitis, and increased risk of chronic kidney disease. Erectile dysfunction is largely unrecognized as an adverse effect of proton pump inhibitors despite increasing evidence that proton pump inhibitors may contribute to impaired nitric oxide generation and endothelial dysfunction. A 38-year-old Caucasian man with mild hypertension and no other significant medical history developed profound erectile dysfunction within 2 days of initiating over-the-counter omeprazole therapy, with erectile function rapidly normalizing following discontinuation of the drug. At the time of the episode, the patient was on a stable dose of lisinopril and was taking no other medications or supplements. In the 2 years following the episode, the patient has had no further erectile difficulties. Further study of erectile dysfunction as an adverse effect of proton pump inhibitors is needed. In the meantime, proton pump inhibitors should be considered as a potential cause of erectile dysfunction in healthy young patients and as a cause or contributor to erectile dysfunction in older patients in whom erectile dysfunction is often attributed to age or comorbidities.
Prognostic impact of identifying etiology of prosthetic valve dysfunction with CT.

BACKGROUND In patients with prosthetic heart valves (PHV), there are distinct treatment implications based on prosthetic valve dysfunction (PVD) etiology. We investigated whether evaluation for PVD etiology on computed tomography (CT) has prognostic value for adverse clinical outcomes. METHODS Consecutive patients with suspected PVD that had a clinically indicated contrast chest CT and echocardiogram done within 1 year of each other were identified retrospectively from the Prosthetic Heart Valve CT Registry at the University of Minnesota. CTs and echocardiograms were assessed for potential PVD etiologies of pannus, structural valve degeneration (SVD) and thrombus, as per standard guidelines. Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analyses were performed to assess association with a composite outcome of reoperation and all-cause mortality. RESULTS 132 patients (51.5% male, mean age 62.1 ​± ​19.3 years) with suspected PVD were included. There were 97 tissue valves, 31 mechanical valves and 4 transcatheter valves. The location of the valve was as follows: 72 aortic, 45 mitral, 8 tricuspid, and 7 pulmonic. A PVD etiology was diagnosed on CT in 80 (60.6%) patients, and on echocardiography in 45 (34.1%) patients, largely driven by a diagnosis of SVD on both modalities. Significant univariate predictors of the composite outcome included CT diagnosis of SVD (P ​< ​0.001), echocardiography diagnosis of SVD (P ​< ​0.001), degree of prosthetic stenosis (P ​< ​0.001) and degree of prosthetic regurgitation (P ​< ​0.001). On multivariable analyses adjusted for age, sex, left ventricular function, degree of prosthetic stenosis and degree of prosthetic regurgitation, CT diagnosis of SVD was significantly associated with the composite outcome (HR: 1.79, 1.09-2.95) whereas echocardiography diagnosis of SVD was not (HR: 1.56, 0.98-2.46). CONCLUSION In patients with suspected PVD, CT assessment of SVD had prognostic significance for hard outcomes. CT should be considered in the diagnostic evaluation of patients with suspected PVD.
Left bundle branch block with intermittent right axis deviation. Evidence for left posterior hemiblock accompanying predivisional left bundle branch block.

Abstract A case of complete left bundle branch block with several episodes of intermittent marked right axis deviation is presented. All possible causes of the intermittent development of additional right axis deviation, such as electrolyte imbalances, lateral wall infarct, intermittent Wolff-Parkinson-White conduction, right bundle branch block, right ventricular hypertrophy and pulmonary embolism, were excluded. We conclude that the explanation for left bundle branch block with intermittent right axis deviation in our patient was the coexistence of left posterior hemiblock and predivisional left bundle branch block.
Neuroanatomical Basis of Clinical Neurology

Basic Neuroanatomy Developmental Aspects of the Nervous System Basic Elements of the Nervous System Morphologic and Sectional Neuroanatomy Spinal Cord Brainstem Reticular Formation Cerebellum Diencephalon Telencephalon Peripheral Neuroanatomy Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) Spinal Nerves Cranial Nerves Functional Neuroanatomy Neurotransmitters Special Somatic Sensations Visual System Auditory System Vestibular System Special Visceral Sensations Olfactory System Limbic System Gustatory System General Somatic Sensations Cortical and Subcortical Sensory Systems Motor Systems Upper and Lower Motor Neuron Systems Extrapyramidal Motor System Index
Animal Disease Pre-Event Preparedness versus Post-Event Response: When is it Economic to Protect?

We examine the economic tradeoff between the costs of pre-event preparedness and post-event response to the potential introduction of an infectious animal disease. In a simplified case study setting, we examine the conditions for optimality of an enhanced pre-event detection system considering various characteristics of a potential infectious cattle disease outbreak, costs of program implementation, severity of the disease outbreak, and relative effectiveness of postevent response actions. We show that the decision to invest in pre-event preparedness activities depends on such factors as probability of disease introduction, disease spread rate, relative costs, ancillary benefits, and effectiveness of mitigation strategies.
Growth and physiological responses to surgical and gastric radio transmitter implantation techniques in subyearling chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha)

We examined the effects of surgical and gastric transmitter implantation techniques on the growth, general physiology and behavior of 230 subyearling chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha, Walbaum) (100 mm–154 mm fork length). The transmitter weighed 1.3 g in air (0.9 g in water) and comprised, on average, 6% of the body weight of the fish (in air). Individuals were randomly assigned to an experimental group (control, surgical or gastric) and a sampling period (day 5 or day 21). Relative growth rate was expressed as% body weight gained/day. General condition was assessed by necropsy. Physiological response variables included hematocrit, leucocrit and plasma protein concentration. The mean relative growth rates of control, surgical and gastric fish were not significantly different at day 5. By day 21, the gastric group had a significantly lower relative growth rate (1.3%) as compared to the surgical group (1.8%) and the control group (1.9%) (P = 0.0001). Mean hematocrit values were significantly lower in the surgical (41.8%) and gastric (42.2%) groups as compared to controls (47.3%) at day 5 (P = 0.01), but all were within normal range for salmonids. No significant differences in hematocrit values were detected at day 21. Leucocrit values for all groups were ≤ 1% in 99% of the fish. Both tagged groups had significantly lower mean plasma protein levels as compared to controls at day 5 (P = 0.001) and day 21 (P = 0.0001). At day 21 the gastric group (64.4 g 100 ml-1) had significantly lower mean plasma protein levels than the surgical group (68.8 g 100 ml-1) (P = 0.0001). Necropsies showed decreasing condition of gastrically tagged fish over time, and increasing condition of surgical fish. Paired releases of surgically and gastrically implanted yearling chinook salmon in the lower Columbia River in spring, 1996 revealed few significant differences in migration behavior through two reservoirs. We conclude that gastrically implanted fish show decreased growth and condition over a 21 d period. We recommend a surgical implantation method for long-term studies of juvenile salmonids, however, gastric implantation may be suitable for short-term studies.
A semianalytic model for the computation of imbibition through polygonal cross sections

[1] We develop a semianalytic method for the computation of arc-menisci motion in an imbibition process through any irregular polygonal cross section for any arbitrary wetting angle from 0° to 90°. The method produces the sequence of unique arc meniscus configurations that develop as the capillary pressure decreases throughout the imbibition process. To test for robustness of the algorithm, we apply the method to the analysis of arc meniscus motion for imbibition processes in a sample of 23,639 throat cross sections obtained from analysis of X-ray computed tomographic images of 22% porosity Fontainebleau sandstone. Extending the work of Glantz and Hilpert (2011), we define the chord axis, which captures the motion of stable arc menisci in a polygonal cross section. Unlike the one-parameter family of drainage axes introduced by Lindquist (2006), the chord axis is independent of the wetting angle. We demonstrate that the semianalytic method can be used to construct the chord axis for any polygonal cross section.
The Harvard Catalyst Common Reciprocal IRB Reliance Agreement: An Innovative Approach to Multisite IRB Review and Oversight

Reduction of duplicative Institutional Review Board (IRB) review for multiinstitutional studies is a desirable goal to improve IRB efficiency while enhancing human subject protections. Here we describe the Harvard Catalyst Master Reciprocal Common IRB Reliance Agreement (MRA), a system that provides a legal framework for IRB reliance, with the potential to streamline IRB review processes and reduce administrative burden and barriers to collaborative, multiinstitutional research. The MRA respects the legal autonomy of the signatory institutions while offering a pathway to eliminate duplicative IRB review when appropriate. The Harvard Catalyst MRA provides a robust and flexible model for reciprocal reliance that is both adaptable and scalable.
Factors associated with disability paratransit's travel time reliability

This paper identifies some of the characteristics of trips and pick-up and drop-off locations that are associated with paratransit's travel time reliability. Following convention, reliability has been defined as the inverse of variability. Four measures of travel time variability have been used to examine reliability: Standard Deviation, Percent Variation, Misery Index, and Buffer Index. Regression models have been used to estimate these four variables with trip data from Access Link, the paratransit service provided by NJ TRANSIT pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). A number of characteristics of the pick-up and drop-off locations as well as selected characteristics of the trips were used as independent variables of the models. The statistical significance of the independent variables varied depending on which measure of reliability was estimated, but a few variables were consistently associated with reliability in all four models. These variables were trip distance, booking type, winter season, density of motor vehicle crashes in pick-up and drop-off locations, and whether pick-ups occurred in suburban bus corridors or urban core areas. Because of the significance of the variables on motor vehicle crash density in pick-up and drop-off locations, an additional regression model was used to examine the effect of crash incidents on trip duration by considering drop-offs that occurred in locations immediately after a crash. The model showed that trips take 4 to 5% longer when crashes occur in locations prior to a drop off. Planning implications of the findings are discussed.
The impact of the investment climate on employment growth : does Sub-Saharan Africa mirror other low-income regions ?

Using survey data from 86,000 enterprises in 104 countries, including 17,000 enterprises in 31 Sub-Saharan African countries, this paper finds that average enterprise-level employment growth rates are remarkably similar across regions. This is true despite significant differences in the quality of the investment climate in which these enterprises operate. Objective measures of investment climate conditions (including the number of outages, the share of firms with bank loans, and others) indicate that conditions are most challenging within Sub-Saharan Africa, as well as for smaller enterprises. However, enterprises employment in Sub-Saharan Africa is less sensitive to changes in access to infrastructure and finance relative to other low-income regions. This can be understood by looking at non-linear effects by firm size -- and the finding that these size effects are particularly strong within Sub-Saharan Africa. Although unreliable infrastructure services and inadequate access to finance generally hamper growth, in Sub-Saharan Africa they are actually associated with higher employment growth rates among micro enterprises. Although employment growth is good news in Sub-Saharan Africa, that much of the expanded employment is in small, labor-intensive, less productive enterprises raises longer-run concerns about the efficiency of the allocation of resources and aggregate productivity growth in the region.
Disrupting the Intermolecular Self-Association of Itk Enhances T Cell Signaling

The Tec family tyrosine kinase (Itk), is a key component of the TCR signaling pathway. Biochemical studies have shown that Itk activation requires recruitment of Itk to the membrane via its pleckstrin homology domain, phosphorylation of Itk by the Src kinase, Lck, and binding of Itk to the SLP-76/LAT adapter complex. However, the regulation of Itk enzymatic activity by Itk domain interactions is not yet well understood. In this study, we show that full-length Itk self-associates in an intermolecular fashion. Using this information, we have designed an Itk variant that exhibits reduced self-association but maintains normal binding to exogenous ligands via each of its regulatory domains. When expressed in insect cells, the Itk substrate phospholipase Cγ1 is phosphorylated more efficiently by the Itk variant than by wild-type Itk. Furthermore, expression of the Itk variant in primary murine T cells induced higher ERK activation and increased calcium flux following TCR stimulation compared with that of wild-type Itk. Our results indicate that the Tec kinase Itk is negatively regulated by intermolecular clustering and that disruption of this clustering leads to increased Itk kinase activity following TCR stimulation.
Nietzsche's Philosophy of Action

Nietzsche holds that people lack freedom of the will in any sense that would be sufficient for ascriptions of moral responsibility; that the conscious experience we have of willing is actually epiphenomenal with respect to the actions that follow that experience; and that our actions largely arise through non-conscious processes (psychological and physiological) of which we are only dimly aware, and over which we exercise little or no conscious control. At the same time, Nietzsche, always a master of rhetoric, engages in a “persuasive definition” (Stevenson 1938) of the language of “freedom” and “free will,” to associate the positive valence of these terms with a certain Nietzschean ideal of the person unrelated to traditional notions of free will.
Doing It For Ourselves: Building Communities for Health Education and Support for Older Lesbian/Bisexual Women

Few studies have examined ways to improve health of older lesbian and bisexual women at risk for physical and mental health problems, disability, and isolation. Doing It For Ourselves (DIFO) is a 12-week health education group designed to empower women through a structured curriculum with peer facilitators. This study examines qualitative data addressing the usefulness of program components. Two themes were related to (a) development of community, including a sense of support, not being judged, a place to be vulnerable, and having a peer facilitator; and (b) value of supportive materials/structures. These themes provide guidance for developing effective health-oriented groups.
Mobile phase and temperature studies in the reversed-phase liquid chromatography of inosine and guanosine compounds

Abstract The results are reported of a systematic investigation of the effects of the mobile phase methanol concentration and pH, temperature and flow-rate, separately or in combination, on the reversed-phase liquid chromatography of selected biologically important nucleosides. As expected in a reversed-phase separation, the retention times of each nucleoside decreased proportionally with increasing methanol concentration. The pH effects were dependent on the percentage of methanol present. A methanol selectivity factor is proposed for expressing numerically the effect of methanol concentration on retention. Increasing temperature also decreased retention, but the extent of the effect was dependent on the structure of the nucleoside. Thus, chromatography of a sample at temperatures above ambient could cause peak mergers. A method using experimentally determined retention times of two nucleosides at two temperatures was proposed for determining exact t0, (void time) values of a system. The t0, values which were calculated by an equation and determined graphically were in good agreement.
Comparative effectiveness of clopidogrel in medically managed patients with unstable angina and non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction.

Objectives This study sought to examine the effectiveness of clopidogrel in real-world, medically managed patients with unstable angina (UA) or non–ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). Background Although clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of clopidogrel to reduce cardiovascular (CV) morbidity and mortality in medically managed patients with UA or NSTEMI, the effectiveness of clopidogrel in actual clinical practice is less certain. Methods A retrospective cohort study was conducted of Kaiser Permanente Northern California members without known coronary artery disease or prior clopidogrel use who presented with UA or NSTEMI between 2003 and 2008 and were medically managed (i.e., no percutaneous coronary intervention or coronary artery bypass grafting during the index hospitalization or within 7 days post-discharge). Over 2 years of follow-up, we measured the association between clopidogrel use and all-cause mortality, hospital stay for MI, and a composite endpoint of death or MI using propensity-matched multivariable Cox analyses. Results We identified 16,365 patients with incident UA (35%) or NSTEMI (65%); 36% of these patients were prescribed clopidogrel within 7 days of discharge. In 8,562 propensity score–matched patients, clopidogrel users had lower rates of all-cause mortality (8.3% vs. 13.0%; p Conclusions In a large, community-based cohort of patients who were medically managed after UA/NSTEMI, clopidogrel use was associated with a lower risk of death and MI, particularly among patients with NSTEMI.
Effect of 6-hydroxydopamine on [3H]-adenine nucleotide and [3H]-noradrenaline release from the guinea-pig taenia caecum evoked by electrical field stimulation, nicotine and perivascular nerve stimulation.

Abstract 1 The effects of pretreatment of guinea-pigs with 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) on the release of [3H]-noradrenaline and [3H]-adenine nucleotide following electrical field, nicotine and perivascular nerve stimulation of guinea-pig taenia caecum were studied. 2 High frequency electrical field stimulation (15,30 Hz) released both [3H]-noradrenaline and [3H]-adenine nucleotide but low frequency (0.5, 5 Hz) stimulation, producing comparable muscle relaxation led only to [3H]-noradrenaline release. 3 6-OHDA (50-200 mg/kg) pretreatment inhibited the muscle relaxation and [3H]-noradrenaline release with electrical stimulation or with nicotine in isolated taenia but did not affect the release of [3H]-nucleotide. 4 A low dose of 6-OHDA (50 mg/kg), completely inhibited the muscle relaxation and [3H]-noradrenaline release elicited by perivascular nerve stimulation. 5 Both tissue noradrenaline content and [3H]-noradrenaline uptake were decreased to the same extent by low as well as high doses of 6-OHDA: noradrenaline content was reduced to 20% and uptake to 30% of the control value. 6 Catecholamine fluorescence disappeared from tissue layers of the taenia after treatment with a high dose of 6-OHDA. 7 In these experiments the inhibitory action of electrical stimulation and nicotine on the taenia can be correlated better with noradrenaline than with nucleotide release.
Characterization of DNA complementary to nucleotide sequences adjacent to poly(A) at the 3'-terminus of the avian sarcoma virus genome.

Abstract We have prepared DNA complementary to a sequence of 300–400 nucleotides adjacent to the poly(A) at the 3′-terminus of the genome of avian sarcoma virus (ASV) DNA was transcribed from denatured ASV RNA following initiation on the primer (dT)12–18. We demonstrated that homopolymer synthesis was not a significant feature of our enzymatic reaction, and we proved that most if not all the initiations on (dT)12–18 occurred at or near the 3'-terminus of the viral RNA. The presence of oligo(dT) on cDNA3, accelerates hybridization between cDNA3, and polyadenylated viral RNA; this artifact can be eliminated by including a competing homopolymer [poly(dT) or poly(A)l in the reaction mixtures. Nucleotide sequences complementary to cDNA3, occur only once or twice in the genome of avian sarcoma viruses, are present in the genomes of virus strains from subgroups A, B, C, D, E, and F of avian leukosis-sarcoma viruses, and are conserved even when large deletions affect an adjacent viral gene (src) By contrast, we find little or no complementarity between cDNA3, and the genomes of golden pheasant virus (subgroup G of avian leukosis-sarcoma viruses), mouse mammary tumor virus, and the Moloney strains of murine sarcoma virus and murine leukemia virus. cDNA3, can be used to identify the 3′-terminus of the avian sarcoma virus genome by molecular hybridization and will therefore be a useful reagent for the analysis of viral replication.
Shell-model operator for K-band splitting

Abstract A microscopic shell-model operator that generates K -band splitting is introduced. An analytic matrix representation for this K 2 operator is given in angular momentum projected states of the SU(3) ⊃ SO(3) group reduction. The K 2 operator can also be used to resolve multiple occurrences of L -values in SU(3) representations, that is, it provides for a resolution of the SU(3) ⊃ SO(3) state labelling problem. Results for the leading SU(3) representations of 24 Mg and 168 Er, with ( λ , μ ) = (8, 4) and (30, 8) respectively, are presented to show that K 2 is very nearly diagonal in an angular momentum projected SU(3) ⊃ SO(3) basis. An analysis of K -band splitting for 24 Mg and 168 Er is used to demonstrate the utility of the theory for carrying out shell-model calculations.
IS-021 Functional Mri And Language Development In Infants And Children

Language is specific to the human and can, thus, not be studied in the animal. In the adult, there is a strong dominance of the left hemisphere for most aspects of language and stroke in language regions often leads to permanent aphasia. In contrast, lesions in similar locations acquired very early do not lead to an impaired language function in the affected child. With the advent of fMRI, the cerebral representation of language organisation can now be studied non-invasively even in smaller children. Questions 1. Language representation during development? 2. Early left hemispheric lesions and language representation? 3. If there is language reorganisation, does it affect right hemispheric functions? 4. How good is right hemispheric language? 5. What is the time frame for reorganisation? Answers Language representation is initially bilateral and increasingly left dominated during development. Early left hemispheric lesions may induce reorganisation to the right – in homotopic areas. This happens on the expense of right hemispheric functions. Language quality in reorganised language is not impaied for everyday language, but there are differences in complex linguistic aspects, which supports the idea of a genetic predisposition. The time frame for reorganisation is not very clear, but there is no evidence for successful reorganisation after preschool age. This work is supported by the German Research Council (DFG) and the University of Tubingen.
Complex unloading behavior: Nature of the deformation and its consistent constitutive representation

Abstract Complex (nonlinear) unloading behavior following plastic straining has been reported as a significant challenge to accurate springback prediction. More fundamentally, the nature of the unloading deformation has not been resolved, being variously attributed to nonlinear/reduced modulus elasticity or to inelastic/“microplastic” effects. Unloading-and-reloading experiments following tensile deformation showed that a special component of strain, deemed here “Quasi-Plastic-Elastic” (“QPE”) strain, has four characteristics. (1) It is recoverable, like elastic deformation. (2) It dissipates work, like plastic deformation. (3) It is rate-independent, in the strain rate range 10−4–10−2/s, contrary to some models of anelasticity to which the unloading modulus effect has been attributed. (4) To first order, the evolution of plastic properties occurs during QPE deformation. These characteristics are as expected for a mechanism of dislocation pile-up and relaxation. A consistent, general, continuum constitutive model was derived incorporating elastic, plastic, and QPE deformation. Using some aspects of two-yield-function approaches with unique modifications to incorporate QPE, the model was implemented in a finite element program with parameters determined for dual-phase steel and applied to draw-bend springback. Significant differences were found compared with standard simulations or ones incorporating modulus reduction. The proposed constitutive approach can be used with a variety of elastic and plastic models to treat the nonlinear unloading and reloading of metals consistently for general three-dimensional problems.