cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Discovery of a Novel and Rich Source of Gluten-Degrading Microbial Enzymes in the Oral Cavity

Background Celiac disease is a T cell mediated-inflammatory enteropathy caused by the ingestion of gluten in genetically predisposed individuals carrying HLA-DQ2 or HLA-DQ8. The immunogenic gliadin epitopes, containing multiple glutamine and proline residues, are largely resistant to degradation by gastric and intestinal proteases. Salivary microorganisms however exhibit glutamine endoprotease activity, discovered towards glutamine- and proline-rich salivary proteins. The aim was to explore if gliadins can serve as substrates for oral microbial enzymes. Methodology/Principal Findings Proteolytic activity in suspended dental plaque was studied towards a) gliadin-derived paranitroanilide(pNA)-linked synthetic enzyme substrates b) a mixture of natural gliadins and c) synthetic highly immunogenic gliadin peptides (33-mer of α2-gliadin and 26-mer of γ-gliadin). In addition, gliadin zymography was conducted to obtain the approximate molecular weights and pH activity profiles of the gliadin-degrading oral enzymes and liquid iso-electric focusing was performed to establish overall enzyme iso-electric points. Plaque bacteria efficiently hydrolyzed Z-YPQ-pNA, Z-QQP-pNA, Z-PPF-pNA and Z-PFP-pNA, with Z-YPQ-pNA being most rapidly cleaved. Gliadin immunogenic domains were extensively degraded in the presence of oral bacteria. Gliadin zymography revealed that prominent enzymes exhibit molecular weights >70 kD and are active over a broad pH range from 3 to 10. Liquid iso-electric focusing indicated that most gliadin-degrading enzymes are acidic in nature with iso-electric points between 2.5 and 4.0. Conclusions/Significance This is the first reported evidence for gluten-degrading microorganisms associated with the upper gastro-intestinal tract. Such microorganisms may play a hitherto unappreciated role in the digestion of dietary gluten and thus protection from celiac disease in subjects at risk.
Actively controlled diffraction grating interferometer MEMS devices

A micrograting interferometer has been fabricated to use in measuring the static and dynamic performance of MEMS devices. These measurements aid in qualifying the functionality of fabricated MEMS devices, as well as improving fabrication techniques. The metrology system uses a phase sensitive diffraction grating for interferometric axial resolution and a microfabricated lens for improved lateral resolution. In addition, active control is applied to the system to reduce the impact of mechanical vibrations and insure a high degree of measurement sensitivity. The control scheme is demonstrated successfully in the scanning of MEMS devices in the experiment. A deformable grating, which controls measurement sensitivity, has been fabricated and integrated with optoelectronics in small volume. Experiments with the integrated package demonstrate that the measurement sensitivity can be adjusted by actuating the deformable grating. This integrated single device illustrates that the deformable grating sensor can be expanded to form arrays for parallel measurement of MEMS device.
An Innovative Course Featuring Action Research Integrated with Unifying Science Themes

In this article, we describe an innovative capstone course for preservice K-8 teachers integrating action research and a unifying theme in science (AAAS in Science for all Americans. Oxford University Press, New York, 1989; NRC in National science education standards. National Academy Press, Washington, DC, 1996). The goals of the capstone course are to increase student knowledge of the unifying theme, improve written communication skills, and introduce students to educational research. We provide evidence that each of these goals is met. Student growth in theme knowledge is demonstrated through concept maps, questionnaires, and previously reported assessments. Improved writing ability is demonstrated using the spelling and grammar checking feature of Microsoft Word. The analysis of action research reports demonstrates that students are able to connect their action research project results to previous research.
An Algorithm for Jointly Optimizing Quantization and Multiple Constant Multiplication

This article presents a joint framework for quantization and Multiple Constant Multiplication (MCM) optimization, which yields a computationally efficient implementation of multiplierless multiplication in hardware and software. Frameworks of this nature have been developed in the context of Finite Impulse Response (FIR) filters, where frequency response specifications are used to drive the design. In this work, we look at a general case, considering as given a vector of ideal, real constants, which may come from any application and do not necessarily represent FIR filter coefficients. We first formulate a joint optimization problem for finding a fixed-point vector and a shift-add network that are optimal in terms of quantization error and MCM complexity. We then describe ways to finitize and prune the search space, leading to an efficient algorithm called JOINT_SOLVE that solves the problem. Finally, via extensive randomized experiments, we show that our joint framework is notably more computationally efficient than a disjointed one, reducing the MCM cost by 15p--60p on moderate size problems.
Alternative intraperitoneal chemotherapy regimens for optimally debulked ovarian cancer

Abstract Objective GOG 172 showed a survival benefit with intraperitoneal (IP) cisplatin for advanced ovarian cancer, but patients tolerated the regimen poorly. We hypothesized that women treated with alternative IP chemotherapy strategies may have less toxicity and improved compliance. Methods We reviewed the records of women with ovarian cancer and optimal surgical debulking who underwent IP chemotherapy at our institution. Primary outcomes analyzed were completion rates and toxicities of IP chemotherapy. Secondary outcomes were progression-free and overall survival. Statistical analysis was performed using STATA 10.0. Results Thirty-nine patients with primary ovarian or peritoneal cancer who underwent IP chemotherapy were identified over a 2 year period. Patients were treated with IV paclitaxel followed by IP cisplatin (64%) or IP carboplatin (36%). Median two cycles of intravenous (IV) taxane and carboplatin were given prior to initiating IP therapy in 77% of patients. Median number of IP chemotherapy cycles was 5 and median total number of cycles was 8. Seventy-four percent (74%) of patients received four or greater cycles of IP chemotherapy. There was a higher rate of completion of intended number of IP cycles in the carboplatin group (92%) versus 60% in the IP cisplatin group ( p =0.05). Grade 3 non-hematologic toxicities were more common in the IP cisplatin group than in the IP carboplatin group (24% and 0%, p =0.046). At median follow-up of 24 months, the median progression-free interval and overall survival have not yet been reached for either group. Conclusion Intraperitoneal chemotherapy regimens using carboplatin or cisplatin and dropping day 8 IP paclitaxel have less toxicity and less discontinuation of therapy.
Development of a Standard Reference Material for metabolomics research.

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), in collaboration with the National Institutes of Health (NIH), has developed a Standard Reference Material (SRM) to support technology development in metabolomics research. SRM 1950 Metabolites in Human Plasma is intended to have metabolite concentrations that are representative of those found in adult human plasma. The plasma used in the preparation of SRM 1950 was collected from both male and female donors, and donor ethnicity targets were selected based upon the ethnic makeup of the U.S. population. Metabolomics research is diverse in terms of both instrumentation and scientific goals. This SRM was designed to apply broadly to the field, not toward specific applications. Therefore, concentrations of approximately 100 analytes, including amino acids, fatty acids, trace elements, vitamins, hormones, selenoproteins, clinical markers, and perfluorinated compounds (PFCs), were determined. Value assignment measurements were performed by NIST and the ...
Thermal convection with strongly temperature-dependent viscosity

This paper experimentally investigates the heat transport and structure of convection in a high Prandtl number fluid layer whose viscosity varies by up to a factor of 300 between the boundary temperatures. An appropriate definition of the Rayleigh number R uses the viscosity at the average of the top and bottom boundary temperatures. With rigid boundaries and heating from below, the Nusselt number N normalized with the Nusselt number N0 of a constant-viscosity fluid decreases slightly as the viscosity ratio increases. The drop is 12% at a variation of 300. A slight dependence of N/N0 on R is consistent with a decrease in the exponent in the relation N ∝ Rβ from its constant-viscosity value of 0·281 to 0·25 for R [lsim ] 5 × 104. This may be correlated with a transition from three- to two-dimensional flow. At R ∼ 105 and viscosity variation of 150, the cell structure is still dominated by the horizontal wavelength of the marginally stable state. This is true with both free and rigid upper boundaries. The flow is strongly three-dimensional with a free upper boundary, while it is nearly two-dimensional with a rigid upper boundary.
CIRS-lite: A Fourier Transform Spectrometer for a Future Mission to Titan

The CIRS FTS, aboard the NASA/ESA Cassini-Huygens mission to Saturn, has been returning exciting science since 2004. CIRS-lire, a lightweight CIRS successor, is being designed for a follow-up Titan mission.
Treatment of Fowl Sperm and Developing Embryos with Deoxyribonucleic Acid Extracts

Abstract INTRODUCTION THE principle of transformation has been adequately demonstrated in bacteria but imperfectly, if at all, in higher forms. Reports such as those by Benoit et al. (1957) and Kushner (1956) have attracted continuing interest in this direction. It seems likely that the incorporation of foreign deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) into pre-existing heridity units must be influenced by the concentration of the DNA surrounding these units and that the probability of detecting a transformation must be proportional to the ratio of foreign to autogenous DNA. Shoffner et al. (1960) pointed out that in the studies by Benoit et al. (1957) the amounts injected were small compared to the autogenous material, and it seems reasonable to assume that the chance of producing and detecting transformations by parenteral administration would have been vanishingly small. As it would appear that the fully differentiated organism is an unsuitable tool for the study of transformations in…
Master regulatory genes; telling them what to do

In 1995, the eyeless (ey) gene was dubbed the "master-regulator" of eye development in Drosophila. Not only is ey required for eye development, but its misexpression can convert many other tissues into eye, including legs, wings and antennae.(1) ey is remarkable for its ability to drive coordinate differentiation of the multiple cell types that have to differentiate in a very precise pattern to construct the fly eye, and for its power to override the previous differentiation programs of many other diverse tissues. Even more remarkable, the ey homolog Pax6 and homologs of other eye determination genes from Drosophila are also required for eye development in vertebrates,(2,3) prompting reassessment of the evolution of vision throughout the animal kingdom.(4,5) Now Kumar and Moses have published a study that throws a new light on ey function in Drosophila.(6) According to their work, ey becomes a master regulator of eye development much later than previously thought, and is regulated by signalling through the Notch and EGFR signaling pathways.
K X-ray yields, M1 strength and the γ-ray quasicontinuum in 153Ho

Abstract The presence of highly converted transitions at high spin in the quasicontinuum spectrum of 153 Ho was established from the measurement of K-shell ionization yields. The occurrence of these transitions and the onset of collectivity appear to be correlated. The quasicontinuum γ-ray spectrum was also measured. The X-ray yields cannot be explained solely by internal conversion of transitions with E γ ⪖ 350 keV. Other sources are considered.
Direct nitrogen intake by petals

Flowers are more than objects that awaken passions: they were key evolutionary innovations leading to rapid diversification and the current dominance of flowering plants in terrestrial ecosystems. However, the major biological function that has been ascribed to petals is the mediation of interactions with pollinators. Here we show that petal surfaces can effectively capture and quickly allocate nitrogen ions available in wet atmospheric deposition into ovaries and developing seeds. In laboratory and field experiments we used 15N stable isotope at trace concentrations and measured petal intake in five species from five different families. We observed significant 15N increases in fully developed seeds when petals were exposed to 15N, contrasting with the lack of seed enrichment when 15N was applied just to soil or foliage. Translocation of 15N through petals occurred in a matter of hours, and mass recovery rates of isotope tracers in seeds were much higher through petals (44.6%) than soil (7.4%) or leaves (0%). Our experiments suggest that when reactive N is available from atmospheric sources, flower petals could act as permeable surfaces that can help reproductive structures meet demands of limiting nutrients.
Protein Microinjection by Protease Permeabilization of Fibroblasts

Exposure of cultured diploid fibroblasts to protease solutions induces a hyperperrneable state which permits entry of exogenous macromolecules directly into the cytosol. We have exploited this finding to devise a microinjection method whose chief advantages are simplicity and good retention of cell viability. Proteins successfully injected by this technique range from insulin to thyroglobulin. The amounts injected range from 4 X 10’ to 5 X 10b molecules/cell. o 1988
Distribution of Random Elements Subjected to a Flexible Boundary Condition

The probability distribution function of n random elements subjected to the flexible boundary condition is derived. The probability density is a descending curve and converges to a delta function as n tends to infinity. The distribution of the minimum value is discussed in context of ordered statistics.
Squamous cell carcinomas with single cell infiltration: a potential diagnostic pitfall and the utility of MNF116 and p63.

Numerous variants of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) have been described. We recently encountered four examples of SCC composed primarily of single, atypical cells that were cytokeratin (CK) MNF116-positive and p63-positive. One case was particularly difficult to diagnose as the single cells were obscured by a dense inflammatory infiltrate. We have also noted similar single cell infiltration toward the periphery of four additional cases of more typical SCC. These foci resemble the single tumor cells that may infiltrate at the borders of spindle cell and desmoplastic SCCs. CK MNF116 and p63 were useful in identifying each of these neoplasms. This single - cell pattern of SCC can easily be misdiagnosed, and CK MNF116 and/or p63 are diagnostically helpful in recognizing it.
CORRELATION OF UNILATERAL UROLITHIASIS WITH SLEEP POSTURE

Purpose: Recurrent stone formers commonly present with calculi on the same side and the etiology of recurrent unilateral urolithiasis is unclear. Despite comprehensive metabolic evaluations, many patients will not be readily categorized into a treatable group. Data from the literature support that sleep posture may result in alterations of renal hemodynamics. We investigate the correlation of sleep posture with unilateral urinary stone formation.Materials and Methods: A prospective study of 110 patients with recurrent unilateral nephrolithiasis was conducted. A questionnaire was used to evaluate patient sleep posture. Right or left side down and rotisserie-like sleep postures were defined. The side of stone formation was correlated with sleep posture using chi-square test.Results: Of the patients 93 slept consistently with 1 side in a dependent position and the side of stone was identical to the dependent sleep side in 76% (p = 0.008). The positive predictive values of right and left side down sleep postu...
Audio-Band Frequency-Dependent Squeezing for Gravitational-Wave Detectors

Quantum vacuum fluctuations impose strict limits on precision displacement measurements, those of interferometric gravitational-wave detectors among them. Introducing squeezed states into an interferometer's readout port can improve the sensitivity of the instrument, leading to richer astrophysical observations. However, optomechanical interactions dictate that the vacuum's squeezed quadrature must rotate by 90° around 50 Hz. Here we use a 2-m-long, high-finesse optical resonator to produce frequency-dependent rotation around 1.2 kHz. This demonstration of audio-band frequency-dependent squeezing uses technology and methods that are scalable to the required rotation frequency and validates previously developed theoretical models, heralding application of the technique in future gravitational-wave detectors.
The pathophysiology, prevention, and treatment of stroke in sickle cell disease.

Purpose of review Stroke is one of the most devastating complications of sickle cell disease, but current research has led to improved understanding of its pathogenesis and to new approaches in the prevention of both primary and secondary stroke. This review focuses on advances reported in the past 2 years. Recent findings New concepts in the pathophysiology of central nervous system events in sickle cell disease have centered around hemolytic anemia and nitric oxide metabolism. Genetic risk factors are now being explored. Major improvement in primary stroke prevention has occurred through transcranial Doppler ultrasonography screening, but utilization of this technique is far from optimal. Hydroxyurea is now being tested as an alternative approach to chronic transfusion for secondary stroke prevention through a multicenter trial. Other studies are addressing the management of silent infarcts and nocturnal hypoxemia. Summary Increased understanding of the etiology and pathogenesis of stroke in sickle cell disease should eventually lead to improved management of all central nervous system complications. Alternative secondary stroke prevention with hydroxyurea may allow patients to avoid dependence on life-long chronic transfusion. Primary stroke prevention through transcranial Doppler ultrasonography screening may ultimately yield a dramatic reduction in the incidence of stroke in sickle cell disease.
Ameliorating effects and mechanisms of electroacupuncture on gastric dysrhythmia, delayed emptying, and impaired accommodation in diabetic rats

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects and mechanisms of electroacupuncture (EA) on gastric accommodation, gastric dysrhythmia, and gastric emptying (GE) in streptozotocin (STZ)-induc...
A Physically Anchored Genetic Map and Linkage to Avirulence Reveals Recombination Suppression Over the Proximal Region of Hessian Fly Chromosome A2

Resistance in wheat ( Triticum aestivum ) to the Hessian fly ( Mayetiola destructor ), a major insect pest of wheat, is based on a gene-for-gene interaction. Close linkage (3 ± 2 cM) was discovered between Hessian fly avirulence genes vH3 and vH5 . Bulked segregant analysis revealed two DNA markers (28-178 and 23-201) within 10 cM of these loci and only 3 ± 2 cM apart. However, 28-178 was located in the middle of the short arm of Hessian fly chromosome A2 whereas 23-201 was located in the middle of the long arm of chromosome A2, suggesting the presence of severe recombination suppression over its proximal region. To further test that possibility, an AFLP-based genetic map of the Hessian fly genome was constructed. Fluorescence in situ hybridization of 20 markers on the genetic map to the polytene chromosomes of the Hessian fly indicated good correspondence between the linkage groups and the four Hessian fly chromosomes. The physically anchored genetic map is the first of any gall midge species. The proximal region of mitotic chromosome A2 makes up 30% of its length but corresponded to
Evaluation of 3 handheld portable analyzers for measurement of L-lactate concentrations in blood and peritoneal fluid of horses with colic.

Objective To compare 3 portable handheld analyzers with a bench top blood gas analyzer for measurement of blood and peritoneal fluid L-lactate concentrations in horses admitted with signs of colic. Study Design Prospective clinical study. Sample Population Blood and peritoneal fluid from horses with colic. Methods L-lactate concentrations in heparinized blood and peritoneal fluid were measured serially on 10 occasions to evaluate repeatability of the portable analyzers. Blood and peritoneal fluid L-lactate concentrations were simultaneously evaluated by a bench top and 3 portable analyzers and the results compared by intraclass correlation coefficients and Bland Altman plots. L-Lactate concentrations in a subgroup of peritoneal fluid samples were evaluated by a chromogenic laboratory assay and compared with the bench top and the handheld analyzers. Results Portable lactate analyzers had good intra-analyzer reliability for peritoneal fluid. Two portable analyzers had poor intra-analyzer reliability for mid concentrations of L-lactate in blood. L-lactate measurements from portable analyzers were closer to the bench top analyzer at low concentrations of L-lactate than at higher concentrations. Compared with the bench top analyzer, the Lactate Pro and Lactate Plus have the highest intraclass correlation coefficient and the smallest bias for peritoneal fluid and blood L-lactate, respectively. The bench top analyzer and the Lactate Pro had the highest level of agreement for peritoneal fluid compared with the chromogenic assay. Conclusions Although portable analyzers are alternatives for the measurement of L-lactate concentration in field situations, clinicians need to be aware of the variable results between analyzers, especially when extrapolating means or cutoff values from studies using different lactate analyzers.
National Ignition Facility integrated computer control system

The NIF design team is developing the Integrated Computer Control System (ICCS), which is based on an object-oriented software framework applicable to event-driven control system. The framework provides an open, extensive architecture that is sufficiently abstract to construct future mission-critical control systems. The ICCS will become operational when the first 8 out of 192 beams are activated in mid 2000. THe ICCS consists of 300 front-end processors attached to 60,000 control points coordinated by a supervisory system. Computers running either Solaris or VxWorks are networked over a hybrid configuration of switched fast Ethernet and asynchronous transfer mode (ATM). ATM carries digital motion video from sensor to operator consoles. Supervisory software is constructed by extending the reusable framework components for each specific application. The framework incorporates services for database persistence, system configuration, graphical user interface, status monitoring, event logging, scripting language, alert management, and access control. More than twenty collaborating software applications are derived from the common framework. The framework is interoperable among different kinds of computers and functions as a plug-in software bus by leveraging a common object request brokering architecture (CORBA). CORBA transparently distributes the software objects across the network. Because of the pivotal role played, CORBA was tested to ensure adequate performance.
Current Transformer Burden and Saturation

A tutorial review of the steady-state and transient behavior of current transformers used with power system relays and meters is presented. ANSI accuracy standards are discussed and consideration is given to the significance of burden and saturation in the application of protective relays.
Dental health among homebound elderly.

Currently, little is known about the oral health status, perceived oral health needs, or the extent of dental utilization among community-dwelling, functionally dependent elderly. The purpose of this study was to describe the dental health of functionally dependent elderly living at home and receiving community-based support services. The functional limitations experienced by these elderly living at home are comparable to functional limitations experienced by institutionalized elderly and these limitations impact on oral hygiene and access to dental care. Oral examinations and questionnaires were completed on 50 clients of an urban social service agency. Subjects had a mean of 8.8 teeth/person, with 44 percent completely edentulous. Two subgroups identified from the questionnaire—those who perceived themselves homebound (n/30) and those who did not (n=20), did not differ by age, gender, education level, or race. Respondents reported being homebound an average of 4.5 (±2.9) years. The mean decayed, filled teeth for the perceived homebound group was 5.1, and 7.3 for the group that did not perceive themselves as homebound, with both groups averaging less than of one tooth/person with active root decay. Health care and social policy agendas must address the changing scope of oral health needs and limited access to dental care experienced by an aging population retaining more of their natural dentition.
Increased risk of high-grade anal neoplasia associated with a human papillomavirus type 16 E6 sequence variant

Expression of the E6 and E7 genes of human papillomavirus (HPV) type 16 have been implicated in the etiology of anogenital premalignant and malignant lesions. To evaluate whether variations in the HPV-16 E6 sequence were related to the incidence of high-grade anal neoplasia, 628 HPV-16-positive anal specimens from 193 human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive and 59 HIV-negative participants were typed for variations in 15 E6 nucleotide positions. Although most participants were infected with a prototype strain, 15 (6%) carried the G131 variant, and 12 (5%) were infected with the Af1a variant. Two new variants not previously reported were identified as well. An elevated risk for high-grade anal squamous intraepithelial lesions was associated with infection by G131 variants, compared with the prototype strain (odds ratio, 3.4; 95% confidence interval, 1.1-10), after controlling for HIV status. These data provide further evidence for HPV strain variation as a factor in determining the natural history of anogenital neoplasia.
Optimal system of single vehicle route based on mobile GIS

Transport cost occupies a very big part of logistic cost. In order to reduce transport cost and advance transport efficiency, optimal system of single vehicle route is set up combing C/S and B/S structure based on real street and mobile GIS. The system integrates network, PDA, GPS, GIS and so on. Each part of the system is designed and realized integrating latest network technology, PDA, GPS, mobile GIS and object-oriented concept. The results show that the system realizes optimal scheduling and distributing of visualization logistic, guarantee transporting timely and scientifically, reduce management and transport costs greatly.
The Increasing Prevalence of Atrial Fibrillation among Hemodialysis Patients

A half million Americans have ESRD, which puts them at high risk for cardiovascular disease and poor outcomes. Little is known about the epidemiology of atrial fibrillation among patients with ESRD. We analyzed data from annual cohorts (1992 to 2006) of prevalent hemodialysis patients from the United States Renal Data System. In each cohort, we searched 1 year of medical claims for relevant diagnosis codes to determine the prevalence of atrial fibrillation. Among 2.5 million patient observations, 7.7% had atrial fibrillation, with the prevalence increasing 3-fold from 3.5% (1992) to 10.7% (2006). The number of affected patients increased from 3620 to 23,893 (6.6-fold) during this period. Older age, male gender, and several comorbid conditions were associated with increased risk for atrial fibrillation. Compared with otherwise similar Caucasians, the prevalence of atrial fibrillation rates was substantially lower for blacks, Asians, and Native Americans. One-year mortality was twice as high among hemodialysis patients with atrial fibrillation compared with those without (39% versus 19%), and this increased risk was constant during the 15 years of the study. In conclusion, the prevalence of diagnosed atrial fibrillation among patients receiving hemodialysis in the United States is increasing, varies by race, and remains associated with substantially increased mortality. Identifying potentially modifiable risk factors for incident atrial fibrillation requires further investigation.
Segregation at a Single Trap in the Presence of Fields

There have been a number of recent investigations of segregation properties of diffusing particles in the presence of a single static trap in low dimensions. We study these properties when the diffusing particles are subject to different forms of external fields: global constant bias, random bias fields (Sinai model) and random transition rates. We discuss two measures of segregation, the distances from the trap either to the point at which the concentration profile reaches a specified fraction of its bulk value, or to the nearest unreacted particle. For the cases of global bias (both away from, and towards the trap) and random fields, we found that both measures of segregation have the same asymptotic temporal behavior, while for random transition rates they differ. We explain this difference by relating the nearest-neighbor distance measure to properties of hardcore diffusion in these systems. We also found anomalous spatial shapes for the profile in the vicinity of the trap in the random systems, as well as anomalous reaction rates.
In Vivo Validation of Numerical Prediction of Blood Flow in Arterial Bypass Grafts

In planning operations for patients with cardiovascular disease, vascular surgeons rely on their training, past experiences with patients with similar conditions, and diagnostic imaging data. However, variability in patient anatomy and physiology makes it difficult to quantitatively predict the surgical outcome for a specific patient a priori. We have developed a simulation-based medical planning system that utilizes three-dimensional finite-element analysis methods and patient-specific anatomic and physiologic information to predict changes in blood flow resulting from surgical bypass procedures. In order to apply these computational methods, they must be validated against direct experimental measurements. In this study, we compared in vivo flow measurements obtained using magnetic resonance imaging techniques to calculated flow values predicted using our analysis methods in thoraco-thoraco aortic bypass procedures in eight pigs. Predicted average flow rates and flow rate waveforms were compared for two locations. The predicted and measured waveforms had similar shapes and amplitudes, while flow distribution predictions were within 10.6% of the experimental data. The average absolute difference in the bypass-to-inlet blood flow ratio was 5.4 +/- 2.8%. For the aorta-to-inlet blood flow ratio, the average absolute difference was 6.0 +/- 3.3%.
William Charles ('Bill') Norris

Peter Eckstein recounts major biographical events, background influences, education, professional experience, and achievements in the life of Control Data Corp.'s founder William C. Norris.
Ssdp proteins bind to LIM-interacting co-factors and regulate the activity of LIM-homeodomain protein complexes in vivo

LIM-homeodomain transcription factors control a variety of developmental processes, and are assembled into functional complexes with the LIM-binding co-factor Ldb1 (in mouse) or Chip (in Drosophila). We describe the identification and characterization of members of the Ssdp family of proteins, which we show to interact with Ldb1 and Chip. The N terminus of Ssdp is highly conserved among species and binds a highly conserved domain within Ldb1/Chip that is distinct from the domains required for LIM binding and self-dimerization. In Drosophila, Ssdp is expressed in the developing nervous system and imaginal tissues, and it is capable of modifying the in vivo activity of complexes comprised of Chip and the LIM-homeodomain protein Apterous. Null mutations of the ssdp gene are cell-lethal in clones of cells within the developing wing disc. However, clones mutant for a hypomorphic allele give rise to ectopic margins, wing outgrowth and cell identity defects similar to those produced by mutant clones of Chip or apterous. Ssdp and Ldb/Chip each show structural similarity to two Arabidopsis proteins that cooperate with one another to regulate gene expression during flower development, suggesting that the molecular interactions between Ssdp and Ldb/Chip proteins are evolutionarily ancient and supply a fundamental function in the regulated control of transcription.
Highly effective logistic regression model for signal (anomaly) detection

High signal to noise separation has been a long standing goal in the signal detection community. High in the sense of being able to separate, by orders of magnitude, a signal(s) of interest from its surrounding noise, in order to yield a high signal detection probability at a near zero false-alarm rate. In this paper, I propose to use some of the advances made on the theory of logistic regression models to achieve just that. I discuss a logistic regression model - relatively unknown in our community - based on case-control data, also its maximum likelihood method and asymptotic behavior. An anomaly detector is designed, based on the model's asymptotic behavior, and its performance is compared to performances of alternative anomaly detectors, commonly used with hyperspectral data. The comparison clearly shows the proposed detector's superiority over the others. The overall approach should be of interest to the entire signal processing community.
Windbreaks in North American Agricultural Systems

Windbreaks are a major component of successful agricultural systems throughout the world. The focus of this chapter is on temperate-zone, commercial, agricultural systems in North America, where windbreaks contribute to both producer profitability and environmental quality by increasing crop production while simultaneously reducing the level of off-farm inputs. They help control erosion and blowing snow, improve animal health and survival under winter conditions, reduce energy consumption of the farmstead unit, and enhance habitat diversity, providing refuges for predatory birds and insects. On a larger landscape scale windbreaks provide habitat for various types of wildlife and have the potential to contribute significant benefits to the carbon balance equation, easing the economic burdens associated with climate change. For a windbreak to function properly, it must be designed with the needs of the landowner in mind. The ability of a windbreak to meet a specific need is determined by its structure: both external structure, width, height, shape, and orientation as well as the internal structure; the amount and arrangement of the branches, leaves, and stems of the trees or shrubs in the windbreak. In response to windbreak structure, wind flow in the vicinity of a windbreak is altered and the microclimate in sheltered areas is changed; temperatures tend to be slightly higher and evaporation is reduced. These types of changes in microclimate can be utilized to enhance agricultural sustainability and profitability. While specific mechanisms of the shelter response remain unclear and are topics for further research, the two biggest challenges we face are: developing a better understanding of why producers are reluctant to adopt windbreak technology and defining the role of woody plants in the agricultural landscape.
The Legitimacy of Prohibiting Euthanasia

John Arras argues against the legalization of physician-assisted suicide and active euthanasia on the basis of social costs that he anticipates will result from legalization. Arras believes that the legalization of highly restricted physician-assisted suicide will result in the legalization of active euthanasia without special restrictions, a prediction I grant for the sake of argument. Arras further anticipates that the practices of physician-assisted suicide and euthanasia will be abused, so that many patients who engage in these practices will lose out as a result. He refers to these losses as social costs to legalization. But the social costs at play in typical public policy debates are borne by individuals other than the agent who engages in the controversial activity, specifically by people who cannot be held responsible for enduring those costs. Even if plausible interpretations of Arras’ predictions about the abuse of the practice are granted, legalization of physician-assisted suicide or euthanasia brings no social costs of this latter sort. For this reason, and also because a ban on euthanasia is unfair to those who would profit from it, the losses in utility brought about by legalization would have to be very great to justify a ban.
The detection of moving objects by moving observers

In this study, we examined the problem of moving object detection by a moving observer. If we assume that a coordinate system is attached to an observer, then the translation of the observer can be described as translation along three orthogonal directions T = (TX, TY, TZ)T. A point in space is given by the vector P = (X, Y, Z)T. This point P is projected onto the observer's image plane whose coordinates are defined by (x, y) with x = X/Z and Y = Y/Z. Pure forward translation of the observer without rotation, projects image velocities onto the image plane given by: Vx = (-TX + xTZ)/Z; Vy = (-TY + yTZ)/Z. If we take the image velocity vectors generated by observer forward motion for the entire visual scene, the result forms a radial flow pattern. The center or focus of expansion (FOE) of the radial pattern tells us what direction the observer is going. Using these image velocities and radial patterns Professor Royden developed a computational model that determines the direction of observer motion toward a stationary scene. This model is currently being extended to detect moving objects in the scene. To aid this model development we conducted psychophysics experiments in order to better understand how the human visual system detects moving objects.
Cultural Heritage Information: Access and Management. Ian Ruthven and G. G. Chowdhury (eds).

Cultural Heritage Information: Access and Management. Ian Ruthven and G. G. Chowdhury (eds). London: Facet Publishing, 2015. 253 pp. ISBN: 9781856049306. £64.95 (paperback). This monograph presents a comprehensive overview of digital cultural heritage initiatives and issues from a broad theoretical perspective as well as through current research projects and activities. Both recognized experts in the field, Ian Ruthven (Professor of Information Seeking and Retrieval, University of Strathclyde, UK) and Gobinda Chowdhury (Professor of Information Science and Head of the Department of Mathematics and Information Sciences, Northumbria University, UK) have assembled a volume of well-structured contributions written in accessible terms that explain complex concepts clearly. This book will be invaluable to information science students, professionals working in libraries, museums, and archives, and those interested in learning about the current state of affairs in the field of digital cultural heritage information management from an information science perspective. The title of this collection is slightly imprecise, since the volume focuses almost exclusively on the ‘digital’ landscape of cultural heritage—rather than cultural heritage generally speaking—from digitization to information systems architecture to crowdsourcing projects and user outreach, and the consideration of relevant social, cultural, and economic factors at all stages. There is no discussion of material selection or acquisition policies and processes, since most of the cultural heritage materials under discussion are already in institutional holdings. Instead, this work emphasizes initiatives at cultural heritage institutions to create digital resources for existing collections, and to make them available to a wider audience: as one contributor notes, ‘we are now at a juncture where institutions are expected to provide digital versions of their holdings’ (p. 82). The two fundamental challenges at this point are therefore dealing with ‘the heterogeneous nature of many cultural heritage collections and the growing need to provide non-specialist users with access to cultural heritage content’ (p. 197). Awareness of cultural heritage preservation techniques and issues in … ksmith11{at}stanford.edu
Effects of High Temperature and Relative Humidity on Mold Content and Quality of Stored Popcorn

White and yellow popcorn were stored in different containers at high temperature (35°C) and high relative humidity (85%) conditions for 3 months. Gradual decreases in popping volumes with the lengthening of storage time were observed in both white and yellow popcorn. Internal mold infection was quite low in both white (5.7%) and yellow (3.0%) popcorn at the beginning of storage tests. Few differences were found in total infection levels up to 60 days of storage, except that the Aspergillus glaucus group became established in place of field fungi. A gradual increase in mold infection levels was then observed during the remaining 30 days of storage. Visible mold growth was also observed on the tips of some kernels by the end of storage studies. Internal mold infection in white popcorn stored in an open container was lower (18.3%) than white popcorn stored in a closed plastic bag (75.0%) and closed plastic jar (85.3%), whereas the internal mold infection in yellow popcorn stored in an open container was higher (23.3%) than yellow popcorn stored in a closed plastic bag (6.3%) and closed plastic jar (2.6%). The A. glaucus group were the predominant molds found at the end of storage tests. The ability of toxigenic molds to invade the popcorn was determined using a dry spore inoculum. None of the inoculated molds, which included Aspergillus flavus , Penicillium martensii , and Penicillium viridicatum , were able to invade the popcorn during storage. However, the A. glaucus group predominated at the end of storage tests in the inoculated samples.
Oxygen-to-Sulfur Substitution of DNA Phosphate Entropically Enhances Protein-DNA Affinity

For some proteins, dithioation of DNA phosphate is known to enhance binding affinities. For the Antennapedia (Antp) homedomain - DNA complex, we have mechanistically characterized this phenomenon by integrated use of fluorescence, isothermal calorimetry (ITC), NMR spectroscopy, and X-ray crystallography. Through ITC and fluorescence, we found that this affinity enhancement is entropy-driven. By NMR, we investigated the ionic hydrogen bonds and internal motions of lysine side-chain NH3+ groups involved in ion pairs with DNA. By X-ray crystallography, we compared the structures of complexes with and without dithioation of the phosphate. Our NMR and X-ray data demonstrate that the lysine side chain in contact with the DNA phosphate becomes more dynamic upon dithioation. Our thermodynamic, structural, and dynamic investigations collectively show that the affinity enhancement by the oxygen-to-sulfur substitution in DNA phosphate is largely due to an entropic gain arising from mobilization of the intermolecular ion pair at the protein-DNA interface.This work was supported by Grant R01-GM105931 from the National Institutes of Health (to J.I.) and Grant CHE-1307344 from the National Science Foundation (to J.I.).
Three Approaches to a Sequence Problem

In this note we examine a well-studied problem concerning the terms of a certain linear recurrence modulo prime numbers. We present three solutions to this problem and examine the similarities and ...
The Changing Context of Hazard Extremes: Events, Impacts, and Consequences

Recognizing that it does not take an extreme event to produce extreme consequences, White argued for an equal emphasis on technologically-oriented solutions to natural hazards problems, along with emphases on the social, economic, and political factors that lead to the adoption or non-adoption of alternatives for managing disaster risk. The paradox of modern society is that we are not achieving this balance — we have more knowledge and abilities to manipulate nature, yet simultaneously have increased our exposure and susceptibility to natural hazards through our own actions, myopia, and development patterns. The changing context of hazards necessitates more progressive approaches to disaster risk management. This means a reframing of current programs and policies away from response to a more proactive and longer term emphases on enhancing resilience at local to global scales. It also means expanding our definitions of extreme events and extreme consequences. Linking hazards science and practice to larger societal changes and development objectives is the path toward a more resilient future, a goal that personifies the scholarship of White and his student, Mitchell.
Anisotropic Friction of Wrinkled Graphene Grown by Chemical Vapor Deposition

Wrinkle structures are commonly seen on graphene grown by the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method due to the different thermal expansion coefficient between graphene and its substrate. Despite the intensive investigations focusing on the electrical properties, the nanotribological properties of wrinkles and the influence of wrinkle structures on the wrinkle-free graphene remain less understood. Here, we report the observation of anisotropic nanoscale frictional characteristics depending on the orientation of wrinkles in CVD-grown graphene. Using friction force microscopy, we found that the coefficient of friction perpendicular to the wrinkle direction was ∼194% compare to that of the parallel direction. Our systematic investigation shows that the ripples and “puckering” mechanism, which dominates the friction of exfoliated graphene, plays even a more significant role in the friction of wrinkled graphene grown by CVD. The anisotropic friction of wrinkled graphene suggests a new way to tune the graphene ...
The Intersection of Positive Organizational Scholarship and Organizational Change

Change is a fundamental part of the individual and organizational lives we lead. Although change remains ever-present in our personal and professional lives, this fact does not reduce the uncertainty and often anxiety produced when changes are introduced into our immediate environment. There are several key factors that impede and encourage the implementation of change in the organizational context; however, by considering some positive organizational scholarship principles managers may be better able to manage and implement change more successfully. And more importantly, by dealing with change in a more open and positive manner, managers can increase the well-being of their employees and organizations overall. The chapter concludes with suggestions for ways in which the intersection of change and positive scholarship could be utilized to inform the practice of management that improves the lives of individuals and society at-large.
The Measurement Structure of School Engagement Among Youth in China: An Exploratory Structural Equation Modeling Study:

In this research, we examined the construct of a school engagement scale using exploratory structural equation modeling (ESEM). This study involved a translated measurement model that was originall...
Sacral Tumor Surgery Complications

Oncologic sacrectomy spans a spectrum from limited distal resections to large procedures which disrupt spino-pelvic continuity and require extensive reconstruction. These are all large procedures undertaken for curative intent in the treatment of localized sacral malignancies. Complications are frequent with these procedures and center on medical complications and wound healing difficulties.