cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
COMPARISON BETWEEN ACTUAL STENOSIS AND INTERNAL BALLOON OBSTRUCTION FOR EQUIVALENT PRESSURE IN A PORCINE MODEL

The study of hemodynamics in an animal model associated with coronary stenosis has been limited due to the lack of a safe, accurate, and reliable technique for creating an artificial stenosis. Creating artificial stenosis using occluders in an open-chest procedure has often caused myocardial infarction (MI) or severe injury to the vessel resulting in high failure rates. To minimize these issues, closed-chest procedures with internal balloon obstruction were often used to create artificial stenosis. However, it should be noted that the hemodynamics in a blood vessel with internal balloon obstruction as opposed to actual stenosis hasn’t been compared. Hence, the aim of this research is to computationally evaluate the pressure drop in balloon obstruction and compare with that in actual stenosis. It was observed that the flow characteristics in balloon obstruction are more viscous dominated, whereas it is momentum dominated in actual stenosis. Balloon radius was iteratively varied to get a pressure drop equivalent to that of actual stenosis at mean hyperemic flow rates. A linear relation was obtained to predict equivalent balloon obstruction for actual stenosis.
Lesions in the rat soleus muscle following eccentrically biased exercise

Morphological changes in skeletal muscle related to lengthening (eccentric) contractions have been noted by several laboratories. However, a systematic examination of skeletal muscle following repetitive eccentric contractions is lacking. This study was undertaken to study lesions and determine their relative densities in rat soleus muscle 30 min following level or downhill treadmill exercise. Following fixation in situ by vascular perfusion, toluidine-blue-stained 1-micron sections of the muscle samples selected at 73-micron intervals were scanned with a light microscope. Three types of lesions were noted: focal disruptions in the A-band, localized dissolution of Z-lines, and clotting of muscle fibers. Soleus muscle from the caged controls and the tibialis anterior muscle from downhill-exercised rats were essentially free of lesions. Eighty-nine percent of the soleus m. lesions in the downhill runner group and 97% of those in the level runner group were A-band disruptions. A-band lesion density was significantly higher in the soleus muscle of the downhill runners compared to level runners with the highest incidence in the distal half. A-band lesion density was lower in soleus muscles from level runners; however, the highest intramuscular incidence was in the proximal rather than the distal end. The results indicate that a disruption of the A-band is a principal change within some skeletal muscle fibers 30 min following repetitive eccentric contractions.
Gαq-coupled receptors in human atrium function through protein kinase C ε and δ

Abstract Cardiac Gαq-coupled receptors (such as endothelin, angiotensin, and α1-adrenergic receptors) mediate cardiac inotropy and chronotropy, as well as the development of hypertrophy. These receptors signal through protein kinase C (PKC), a family of 12 isozymes including PKC α, βI, βII, γ, δ, e, θ, η, λ, ι, ζ, and μ. Of these PKC isozymes, α, βII, γ, e, δ, and ζ have been implicated in signaling through cardiac Gαq-coupled receptors in various animal models. However, the profile of which isozymes are activated by a given Gαq-coupled receptor varies among animal species. Thus, these results can not be extrapolated to human heart. In this study, we examine PKC isozymes activated by three different Gαq-coupled receptors in human atrial tissue. Live atrial appendages obtained from the operating room were sliced and treated with agonists of Gαq-coupled receptors, and cellular redistribution of PKC isozymes was examined by immunoblotting. We find that stimulation of Gαq-coupled receptors in human atrium activates PKC e and δ only, under both acute (5 min) and longer (35 min) stimulations. Further, PKC e and δ exhibit distinct subcellular redistribution patterns; while both translocate to the plasma membrane upon Gαq stimulation, PKC δ also redistributes to mitochondria. We conclude that PKC e and δ are the main PKC isozymes involved in Gαq-mediated signaling in human atria.
Protestant Higher Education Around the Globe: The Worldwide Spread and Contemporary State of Protestant Higher Education

After its origins in the university, Protestant Christianity nurtured the creation and growth of some of the world’s most famous universities. World class universities such as Harvard, Princeton, Yale, Oxford, Cambridge, and Edinburgh were all started by or cultivated at one time by a particular branch of Protestantism. Furthermore, in other countries, such as Brazil, China, Japan, India, Indonesia, South Africa, and South Korea, Protestant educators played an important role in founding colleges and universities. The first part of this chapter briefly overviews these creative developments. Yet, leaders inspired by nationalism, rationalism, and scientism eventually overtook efforts to secularize most of these universities. Consequently, Protestantism soon became part of these universities’ past. The birthplace of Protestant higher education would be hit the hardest by this trend. By the 1970s comprehensive Protestant colleges and universities in Europe had almost ceased to exist. Scholars began to envision a future bereft of Protestant higher education institutions, at least those committed to some form of traditional orthodoxy. The second part of this chapter summarizes this story of decline. The prophets of the secular future, however, proved to be mistaken. Today, Protestant higher education continues to flourish in every populated continent and more than ever is a global movement and phenomenon. Hundreds of Protestant institutions still flourish in North America, and many more now exist in areas such as Eastern Europe, Africa, and parts of Asia. Built and nurtured by Christian traditions that no longer possess as much political prestige and power, they remain a significant, albeit small, force in higher education.
Measuring the difficulty of steering through corners

The steering law is intended to predict the performance of cursor manipulations in user interfaces, but the law has been verified for only a few path shapes and should be verified for more if it is to be generalized. This study extends the steering law to paths with corners. Two experiments compare the movement times of negotiating paths with corners to straight paths with the same width and movement amplitude. The experimental results show a significant effect on the movement times due to the corners, extending far into the legs of the path's corner. Modeling the results using resource theory, a cognitive theory for divided attention, suggests that steering through corners is two simultaneous tasks: steering along the legs of the corner and aiming at the corner.
Interpretation of Uptake Coefficient Data Obtained with Flow Tubes

The uptake of trace gases such as OH and HO2 radicals, NH3, ClONO2, N2O5, ozone, and many other gases by water, aqueous solutions of acids, and salts has been reported by numerous investigators using a variety of techniques. Reported uptake coefficients vary greatly, ranging from 10-8 to 1. This paper describes a new analysis of uptake data obtained in flow tubes that consolidates data obtained for various flow rates and trace gas concentrations. Previous analyses, which have been often used, are shown to be limiting cases or special cases of the analysis outlined here. Of particular emphasis are results for wetted-wall columns and trace gas uptake by aerosol entrained in flow tubes. In the absence of aerosol, the analysis is shown to predict the decrease in trace gas concentration due to bulk chemical reaction and/or reaction at the tube wall or gas−liquid interface. Uptake coefficients for OH and HO2 radicals on water in wetted-wall tubes are shown to range from 0.01 to 1, and on sulfuric acid, they var...
Stress, Coping, Healing and the Quest for Civility

The stressors of nursing school are real, varied, and complex. Mild stress levels can motivate students to complete assignments and meet deadlines, achieve success on exams, and increase creativity and inspiration (Clark, 2013). While a certain amount of stress can be motivating, and may even give us an edge, other stressors may be less inspiring and can leave students feeling anxious, defeated, and tense. Some of the major stressors for nursing students include heavy academic workloads and exam schedules, feelings of inadequacy and insecurity in the clinical setting, and fear of making a mistake (LeDuc, 2010). In addition, student nurses are also challenged by the competing demands of family, work, and school; financial concerns; competition for grades and scholarships; facing an uncertain future; and experiencing academic incivility (Clark, 2008, 2011, 2013 in progress).
Coping with Stressful or Traumatic Events: What Aspects of Trauma Reactions are Associated with Health Outcomes?

The presence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms has been shown to be related to a number of health outcomes. In the current study, we explored which specific aspects of PTSD are most related to health measures. The associations between the specific DSM-IV-TR PTSD criteria (criteria A–F) and five indicators of health and well-being—physical health symptoms, quality of life, mental health, depression and negative affect—were examined. The sample consisted of 711 undergraduates. A non-clinical sample was recruited so there would be variability in the various criteria for PTSD. Multiple regression analyses revealed that the hyperarousal (criterion D) was the most consistent and strongest predictor of outcomes. However, the F criterion (causes significant impairment) predicted additional variance in quality of life, depression and negative affect. These results suggest that it is not just the mere frequency of trauma symptoms that affect well-being but also the disruptive capability of these symptoms. In addition, follow-up analyses indicated that hyperarousal mediated the association between the A2 criterion (traumatic response) and all five outcome measures. These results underscore the importance of the hyperarousal criterion, while also suggesting the need for increased attention to the F criterion when considering the impact of stressful events on health and well-being. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Effectiveness of the Penn Inventory for Predicting Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptomatology in Female Civilians

This study examined the Penn Inventory, for predicting PTSD symptomatology in 100 female civilians classified into one of three groups that varied with regard to PTSD and psychiatric symptomatology: PTSD only, non-PTSD with psychiatric symptoms (clinical), and non-PTSD with no psychiatric symptoms (non-clinical). Mean scores on the Penn were the highest for those in the PTSD only group. Across groups, the Penn was highly correlated with the Posttraumatic Stress Diagnostic Scale (PDS) and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Hierarchical regressions revealed that the Penn total score did not explain variance in PDS scores that were not already accounted for by the BDI. A subsequent analysis utilizing only selected factor analytically derived Penn items that heavily loaded on PTSD symptomatology did, however, predict PDS scores. This study suggests that the Penn Inventory total score may not be an adequate gauge of PTSD symptoms in female civilians. A subset of Penn items was, however, predictive of PTSD symptomatology.
Kernel stick-breaking processes

We propose a class of kernel stick-breaking processes for uncountable collections of dependent random probability measures. The process is constructed by first introducing an infinite sequence of random locations. Independent random probability measures and beta-distributed random weights are assigned to each location. Predictor-dependent random probability measures are then constructed by mixing over the locations, with stick-breaking probabilities expressed as a kernel multiplied by the beta weights. Some theoretical properties of the process are described, including a covariate-dependent prediction rule. A retrospective Markov chain Monte Carlo algorithm is developed for posterior computation, and the methods are illustrated using a simulated example and an epidemiological application.
Stressin1-A, a Potent Corticotropin Releasing Factor Receptor 1 (CRF1)-Selective Peptide Agonist

The potencies and selectivity of peptide CRF antagonists is increased through structural constraints, suggesting that the resulting ligands assume distinct conformations when interacting with CRF1 and CRF2 receptors. To develop selective CRF receptor agonists, we have scanned the sequence -Gln-Ala-His-Ser-Asn-Arg- (residues 30-35 of [DPhe12,Nle21,38]Ac-hCRF4-41) with an i-(i+3) bridge consisting of the Glui-Xaa-Xbb-Lysi+3 scaffold, where residues i=30, 31, and 32. When i=31, stressin1-A, a potent CRF1 receptor-selective agonist was generated. In vitro, stressin1-A was equipotent to h/rCRF to release ACTH. Astressin1-A showed a low nanomolar affinity for CRF1 receptor (Ki=1.7 nM) and greater than 100-fold selectivity versus CRF2 receptor (Ki=222 nM). Stressin1-A released slightly less ACTH than oCRF in adult adrenal-intact male rats, with increased duration of action. Stressin1-A, injected intraperitoneally in rats, induced fecal pellet output (a CRF1 receptor-mediated response) and did not influence gastric emptying and blood pressure (CRF2 receptor-mediated responses).
Characterizing robust coordination algorithms via proximity graphs and set-valued maps

This paper studies correctness and robustness properties of motion coordination algorithms with respect to link failures in the network topology. The technical approach relies on computational geometric tools such as proximity graphs, nondeterministic systems defined via set-valued maps and Lyapunov stability analysis. The manuscript provides two general results to help characterize the asymptotic behavior of spatially distributed coordination algorithms. These results are illustrated in rendezvous and flocking coordination algorithms.
Forest Vegetation and Development Patterns in Secondary Stands on the Alabama Highland Rim: An Examination of the Largest Landholding in the Region

ABSTRACT: Redstone Arsenal (RA) is a large federal landholding (15,050 ha) managed by the U.S. Department of the Army located on the Highland Rim of north Alabama. This large landholding provided a unique opportunity to document forest vegetation and development patterns in a region with a paucity of quantitative information. In this study, we quantified land cover types, delineated forest stands on the reserve using a GIS, and assessed forest composition and structural measures. Stands were classed into Pinus, hardwood, mixed Pinus-hardwood, and forested wetland types. The majority of land area in stands ≥ 2 ha was hardwood dominated, while the majority of the land area in stands < 2 ha was Pinus dominated. We used a stratified random scheme to establish sampling points (n = 684) within forest stands through the RA. Pinus taeda, Liquidambar styraciflua, and Quercus phellos were the three most important tree species in the RA forest. Biodiversity for the forest was relatively high with a tree species rich...
NORMAL AND ABNORMAL CONSEQUENCES OF APOPTOSIS IN THE HUMAN HEART

▪ Abstract Knowledge about apoptosis has become essential for understanding many aspects of cardiac structure and function. In the human heart there are major periods of morphogenesis that begin only after birth, and some of these processes recur intermittently for many years. Although the exact mechanisms by which these events are initiated or terminated remain poorly understood, it is clear that their benefits may be mirrored in destructive effects. In this review, selected examples include normal morphogenesis of the cardiac conduction system and the normal postnatal involution of the right ventricle, both of which are mediated by apoptosis. Destructive counterparts include familial heart block ending in fatal arrhythmias, similar results in the long QT syndrome, and the pathogenesis of both Uhl's anomaly and arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia; in each apoptosis is an important factor.
On possible causes of apparent longitudinal variations on Ogo 3 observations of VLF chorus

Apparent longitudinal variations of Ogo 3 observations of VLF chorus activity have been interpreted in terms of excitation by power transmission lines. An alternate possibility is that the observed longitudinal distribution is a result of the convolution of the latitudinal and local time distribution of chorus in space with the spatial coverage of the Ogo 3 spacecraft. The orbital period of Ogo 3 was such as to beat with the earth's rotation every 89 days and thus would produce four geographical peaks from a survey of 1 year of data.
Does juvenile competition explain displacement of a native crayfish by an introduced crayfish

The coldwater crayfish Orconectes eupunctus is endemic to the Spring and Eleven Point Rivers of Arkansas and Missouri, and appears to have been displaced from a portion of its range by the recently introduced ringed crayfish Orconectes neglectus. We examined competition among juveniles as a potential mechanism for this crayfish species displacement through laboratory and field experiments. Orconectes eupunctus juveniles survived and grew in stream cages in their former range, implicating biotic interactions rather than habitat degradation in the displacement. Laboratory experiments revealed O. neglectus juveniles were dominant in the presence of limited food, whereas size rather than species determined occupancy of limited shelter. In a field competition experiment using stream cages, O. neglectus juveniles did not inhibit growth or reduce survival of O. eupunctus juveniles. Consequently, laboratory evidence of O. neglectus dominance did not correspond with competition under field conditions. Combined with previous studies examining the effects of O. neglectus on O. eupunctus, these results suggest that competition may not be a factor in this crayfish species displacement. Alternate mechanisms for the apparent displacement of O. eupunctus by O. neglectus, such as differential predation or reproductive interference, should be investigated.
The Paradox of Liquidity

The more liquid a company's assets, the greater their value in a short-notice liquidation. Liquid assets are generally viewed as increasing debt capacity, other things being equal. This paper focusses on the dark side of liquidity: greater liquidity reduces the ability of borrowers to commit to a specific course of action. It examines the effects of differences in asset liquidity on debt capacity. It suggests an alternative theory of financial intermediation and disintermediation.
Genetic Factors Influencing B-type Natriuretic Peptide-Mediated Production of Cyclic Guanosine Monophosphate and Blood Pressure Effects in Heart Failure Patients

Natriuretic peptides (NPs) represent a critical pathway in heart failure (HF). We explored genetic determinants of pharmacodynamic effects of B-type NP (BNP) and changes in plasma cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) and blood pressure (BP). HF patients (n = 135) received recombinant human BNP (nesiritide) at standard doses, and plasma cGMP levels were measured at baseline and during infusion. We tested the association of 119 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 4 candidate genes (NPR1, NPR2, NPR3, and membrane metallo-endopeptidase (MME)) with the change in cGMP and BP. Gene-based testing for association of genetic variation with endpoints was significant only for MME. Upon individual SNP testing, two loci in MME were associated with ΔcGMP; another (rs16824656) showed association with BP change. In summary, the pharmacodynamic effects of BNP vary substantially in HF patients and are associated with genetic variation in MME. MME genetic variation may be an important determinant of NP-mediated effects in humans.
Analyzing Labeled Cyberbullying Incidents on the Instagram Social Network

Cyberbullying is a growing problem affecting more than half of all American teens. The main goal of this paper is to study labeled cyberbullying incidents in the Instagram social network. In this work, we have collected a sample data set consisting of Instagram images and their associated comments. We then designed a labeling study and employed human contributors at the crowd-sourced CrowdFlower website to label these media sessions for cyberbullying. A detailed analysis of the labeled data is then presented, including a study of relationships between cyberbullying and a host of features such as cyberaggression, profanity, social graph features, temporal commenting behavior, linguistic content, and image content.
Postquench dynamics and prethermalization in a resonant Bose gas

We explore the dynamics of a resonant Bose gas following its quench to a strongly interacting regime near a Feshbach resonance. For such deep quenches, we utilize a self-consistent dynamic field approximation and find that after an initial regime of many-body Rabi-type oscillations between the condensate and finite-momentum quasiparticle pairs, at long times, the gas reaches a prethermalized nonequilibrium steady state. We explore the resulting state through its broad stationary momentum distribution function, that exhibits a power-law high-momentum tail. We study the dynamics and steady-state form of the associated enhanced depletion, quench-rate-dependent excitation energy, Tan's contact, structure function, and radio-frequency spectroscopy. We find these predictions to be in a qualitative agreement with recent experiments.
Abstract 310: Oxidized LDL-binding Cationic Peptides and Proteins in Inflammation and Atherosclerosis: Novel Insights

Background: Apolipoprotein A1 and apolipoprotein E mimetic peptides have attracted attention due to their ability to reduce atherosclerosis and exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hypolipidemic properties. We previously reported that the non-lipoprotein-related Lys-Arg-rich cationic peptides have anti-inflammatory properties both in vitro and in vivo. In this study, we have determined whether ApoB100 of low density lipoprotein (N-LDL), which is Lys-Arg rich, has similar properties. Methods: 5F-mimetic peptide of ApoA1, LL27 derived from the anti-microbial peptide CAMP, and a human glycodelin derived peptide, were commercially synthesized. N-LDL was prepared and used. The ability of these peptides and protein to neutralize charges of modified lipoproteins, as well as attenuate macrophage uptake and inflammation, were analyzed. Oxidized LDL (Ox-LDL) was pretreated with increasing concentrations of peptides and N-LDL to evaluate charge neutralizing properties of the peptides as well as that of the protein (ApoB100). RAW cells were incubated with LPS or Ox-LDL pretreated with and without peptides and N-LDL. RNA was isolated from treated cells and real time PCR was performed using mouse IL-1α and IL-6 primers. Results: Cationic peptides as well as ApoB100 protein of N-LDL decomposed the peroxide content of 13-HPODE. Incubation of Ox-LDL and Ac-LDL with the peptides as well as ApoB100 resulted in charge neutralization as noted by agarose gel electrophoresis. Pre-incubation of the peptides and N-LDL with modified lipoproteins reduced the uptake of the latter by macrophages and foam cell formation as detected by Oil-Red O staining. Reduced inflammation was observed in the presence of N-LDL as compared to LPS/Ox-LDL. Conclusions: Based on these studies, we postulate that cationic peptides and protein might have properties that would a) affect events that are unrelated to lipid lowering, b) might play an additional role in immune competent cells, including macrophages, and c) might interact with other biologically important anionic molecules, including lipids and proteins. We also predict that lysine-rich cationic peptides and proteins could have therapeutic potential in reducing CVD/atherosclerosis-associated inflammation.
Bioimaging of metals and biomolecules in mouse heart by laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and secondary ion mass spectrometry.

Bioimaging mass spectrometric techniques allow direct mapping of metal and biomolecule distributions with high spatial resolution in biological tissue. In this study laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICPMS) was used for imaging of transition metals (Fe, Cu, Zn, Mn, and Ti), alkali and alkaline-earth metals (Na, K, Mg, and Ca, respectively), and selected nonmetals (such as C, P, and S) in native cryosections of mouse heart. The metal and nonmetal images clearly illustrated the shape and the anatomy of the samples. Zinc and copper were inhomogeneously distributed with average concentrations of 26 and 11 μg g−1, respectively. Titanium and manganese were detected at concentrations reaching 1 and 2 μg g−1, respectively. The highest regional metal concentration of 360 μg g−1was observed for iron in blood present in the lumen of the aorta. Secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) as an elemental and biomolecular mass spectrometric technique was employed for imaging of Na, K, and selec...
Unsteady flow ballistics of a pneumatic launch tube

An aerodynamic analysis of a pneumatic launch system capable of accelerating a 300 metric ton vehicle to 268 m/sec (600 mph) is presented. Vehicle acceleration is constrained to be less than or equal to 3-g (29.43 m/sec ). The launch system is a horizontal pneumatic ram (catapult) configuration. The ram is modeled as a cylindrical piston within a tube. Compressed air is injected at the upstream head end of the tube and the piston accelerated. The vehicle is attached to the ram and is accelerated with it. Injected air mass flow and total pressure are varied over time. The interior ballistics problem, fore and aft of the ram, is solved by using an unsteady, onedimensional method of characteristics technique. A genetic algorithm is used to find the optimum mass flow and total pressure vs. time at the injector, expressed as polynomials. A parametric study is then conducted on the performance of the system using the optimized polynomials. The results of the parametric study are compared to results obtained from a quasi-steady, Fanno flow model and to data obtained from a lab-scale model. Introduction The Highly Reusable Space Transportation (HRST) program was set up to to study concepts that would significantly lower launch costs. Part of this program includes the development of a ground-based launch system capable of providing first stage acceleration to the launch vehicle, resulting in a fuel mass reduction or a possible payload mass increase. A pneumatic launch system could offer a relatively simple and robust alternative to electromagnetic systems. The proposed system is a pneumatic ram consisting of a cylindrical piston in a circular tube, similar to the Navy's catapult launchers on aircraft carriers. The tube is assumed to be 7.92 m (26 ft.) in diameter and 1225 m (4019 ft.) in length. The length constraint comes from the kinematics of the ideal case of a constant 3-g acceleration (space shuttle maximum). The diameter constraint is more arbitrary but is representative of today's tunneling capabilities. Compressed air enters through a single injector at the base of the launch tube. The vehicle mass is assumed to be 300 metric tons. The piston mass is considered to be small in comparison to the vehicle mass and is neglected. 'Graduate Research Assistant, Aerospace Engineering; now Engineer/Scientist, Boeing 'Associate Professor, Aerospace Engineering; Senior Member AIAA * Director, Space Power Institute & Professor, Electrical Engineering Copyright © 1998 by the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Inc. AH rights reserved. V«Mcl«
Absorption Spectroscopic Method for the Determination of Cefoxitin with Brilliant Green as Probe

In tris-HCl buffer solution of pH 6.67,cefoxitin(CEXI)reacts with brilliant green(BRG)to form an ion-associatied complex,which can result in changes of the absorption spectrum at 655 nm of brilliant green.In the range of 0~6.4mg/L of CEXI,there is a good linearity between the concentration of cefoxitin and the absorbance of the solution.Based on these results,a new spectrophotometric procedure for the determination of cefoxitin is proposed.The apparent molar absorptivity(e)is 1.79×104 L/(mol·cm).It has been applied to the determination of cefoxitin in commercially available cefoxitin sodium medicament and in human blood with satisfactory results.
New Media Systems

Chapter 6 explores similar concepts introduced in the earlier chapters; however, it applies them to new media formats such as social media, websites, and online videos. In the tradition of McLuhan and Fiore’s the “medium is the message” (1967), communication via social media challenges traditional communication theories. As such, framing and gatekeeper roles of media outlets have changed tremendously. To explore changing audience and gatekeeper dynamics, a case study in this section assesses modern representations in social media through an analysis of Facebook hate pages targeting the Obamas.
Characterization and assessment of the meteotsunami hazard in northern Lake Michigan

The meteotsunami hazard is assessed in northern Lake Michigan from both short-term and long-term records of water level, wind speed, and air pressure. Cross-wavelet analysis reveals that meteotsunamis can be caused by atmospheric disturbances that are pressure dominated, wind dominated, or both pressure and wind forced. In total, air pressure and wind stress are found to contribute similarly to meteotsunami initiation in northern Lake Michigan. The pressure-driven meteotsunamis tend to be associated with convective storms, whereas meteotsunamis that are mainly wind-driven are associated more with cyclonic-type storms. The atmospheric disturbances responsible for largest meteotsunamis in northern Lake Michigan are found to have a propagation speed close to 32 m/s and from the south to north direction. A heuristic approach is developed to estimate the maximum meteotsunami height from the atmospheric disturbance strength and velocity. Overall, the heuristic approach is shown to be an effective methodology to assess the meteotsunami hazard over a wide range of potential atmospheric disturbance conditions. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Length and denominators of Egyptian fractions

Abstract We say that an algorithm which could yield a short unit fraction expansion in which the denominators do not get too large is an ideal expansion. It is shown that Bleicher and Erdos algorithm can be modified to be an ideal algorithm.
The Role of Atmospheric Aerosols in the Origin Of Life

Recent results from the real time analysis of individual aerosol particles by laser mass spectrometry have revived interest in the inverted micelle structure for aerosols containing organic molecules; indeed for many aerosols the organic content is high enough, for example ∼50% by mass in the tropical upper troposphere, that it is likely to be the only viable structure. It is pointed out that atmospheric aerosols would have had many advantages as prebiotic chemical reactors, having the potential to address several key problems in a way arising naturally from the probable geophysical and chemical environment on the prebiotic planet. Bacterial and viral size can be predicted for these structures by an equation combining atmospheric aerodynamics and gravity, and which is therefore applicable to other astronomical objects which are candidates for supporting life. Experimental tests and mathematical modelling of the early stages of the chemical evolution of aerosols should be possible.
Is There a Preoperative Morphine Equianalgesic Dose that Predicts Ability to Achieve a Clinically Meaningful Improvement Following Spine Surgery

Background Preoperative opioid use is widespread and associated with worse patient-reported outcomes following spine surgery. Objective To calculate a threshold preoperative morphine equianalgesic (MEA) dose beyond which patients are less likely to achieve the minimum clinically important difference (MCID) following elective surgery for degenerative spine disease. Methods The study included 543 cervical and 1293 lumbar patients. Neck Disability Index and Oswestry Disability Index scores were collected at baseline and 12 mo postoperatively. Preoperative MEA doses were calculated retrospectively. Multivariate logistic regression was then performed to determine the relationship between MEA dose and the odds of achieving MCID. As a part of this regression, Bayesian inference and Markov Chain Monte Carlo methods were used to estimate the values of inflection points (or "thresholds") in MEA. Results Overall, 1020 (55.5%) patients used preoperative opioids. A total of 50.3% of cervical and 61.9% of lumbar patients achieved MCID. The final logistic regression model demonstrated that MCID achievement decreased significantly when mean preoperative MEA dose exceeded 47.8 mg/d, with a 95% credible interval of 29.0 to 60.0 mg/d. Conclusion Minimum and maximum MEA doses exist, between which increasing opioid dose is associated with decreased ability to achieve clinically meaningful improvement following spine surgery. Patients with preoperative MEA dose exceeding 29 mg/d, the lower limit of the 95% credible interval for the mean MEA dose above which patients exhibit significantly decreased achievement of MCID, may be considered for preoperative opioid weaning.
Commodity chains, institutions, and domestic policies of organic and fair trade coffee in Bolivia

ABSTRACTFair trade and organic coffee are alternative production and trade systems designed to promote the equitable and environmentally sustainable production of coffee. The purpose of this study is to analyze the functioning of different coffee supply chains in Bolivia and find policy changes necessary to sustain specialty coffee production in that country. Based on the primary and secondary data collected from various market functionaries, we find that the Bolivian coffee growers and other intermediaries have benefited financially from participating in fair trade and organic markets. However, the producers continue to face challenges, including increasing costs of production, stagnant premium, price floors, and declining yield. Institutional reforms within the supply chain and greater support from the government are necessary to ensure a better functioning Bolivian market. The government should also prioritize certified coffee as a part of its national food sovereignty agenda since Bolivians consume in...
Predictive Modeling for NASA Entry, Descent and Landing Missions

Entry, Descent and Landing (EDL) Modeling and Simulation (MS) is an enabling capability for complex NASA entry missions such as MSL and Orion. MS is used in every mission phase to define mission concepts, select appropriate architectures, design EDL systems, quantify margin and risk, ensure correct system operation, and analyze data returned from the entry. In an environment where it is impossible to fully test EDL concepts on the ground prior to use, accurate MS capability is required to extrapolate ground test results to expected flight performance.
Obtaining impedance matrices of RF structures using the joining and subtraction formulae

We present a computationally efficient method for the calculation of impedance (Z-) matrices and optimization of a large class of standing and traveling wave structures used in klystrons, traveling wave tubes, and other vacuum-electronic devices. We apply the joining formulas by which the Z-matrix of a structure may be constructed from the Z-matrices of its component parts without additional finite element (FE) simulations. For the inverse operation, we apply the subtraction formulas that define the Z-matrix of a structure from which a selected section has been removed. We also derive and show how to use the joining and subtraction formulas for computing the Z-matrix of a modified structure, without re-computing the entire structure Z-matrix. The obtained Z-matrices are suitable for the large signal 1D and 2D beam-wave interaction codes CHRISTINE-CC and TESLA-Z. Application of the techniques described here greatly facilitates the accurate Z-matrix calculations and optimization of large, complex circuits that are difficult or impossible to model whole in a single FE simulation.
CHRONIC HYDROCARBON DISCHARGES INTO AQUATIC ENVIRONMENTS: II-URBAN RUNOFF AND COMBINED SEWER OVERFLOWS

Abstract The literature on petroleum hydrocarbon discharges from urban runoff and combined sewer overflows was reviewed with emphasis on: concentrations and mass discharge rates, factors which control these rates, chemistry of the hydrocarbons, sources and abatement of the petroleum products in urban runoff. Hydrocarbon concentrations in urban runoff were shown to be a function of land use, storm hydrography and form of precipitation. Relationships of hydrocarbon concentrations to analytical methodology, antecedent conditions and traffic volume are unclear. In all the studies, the hydrocarbons in urban runoff were largely associated with particulates. The chemical nature of the hydrocarbons in runoff were shown to be a function of storm history and/or land use. Although a number of source materials for the hydrocarbons in runoff have been suggested, drips of crankcase oil on pavement surfaces appear to be the dominant source at most land uses. Abatement procedures demonstrated to be effective include proper maintenance of automobiles, use of oil-water separators for industrial runoff, use of specially designed drainage systems which include subsurface disposal, overland flow landscaping, retention basins and porous pavement. Combined sewer overflow data on hydrocarbons are very rare and discharge rates appear to be site specific. A modelling approach to estimate potential loadings via combined sewer overflows was discussed. Hydrocarbon pollution budgets to various receiving waters were compared. Although each budget was site specific, it appears that the total hydrocarbon budget relates to the population of the watershed. Chronic inputs of petroleum to U.S. aquatic environments is estimated at 470 × 10 3 tons per year.
Behaviorism and Reductionism

The man who crossed the bridge and closed the gap between the study of animal behavior and the study of human behavior was John Broadus Watson. Watson combined into one system the philosophical pragmatism of James, the psychological functionalism of Dewey, the experimental method of animal psychology of Yerkes, and the conditioning of Pavlov and Bekhterev.
The Effect on Yield of Clustering and Radial Variations in Defect Density

This work examines the effect on yield, of the clustering and radial variation of fatal defects. An expression is developed for fatal defects as a function of chip area and distance of the chip from the edge of the wafer, and used to estimate the yield of successively larger numbers of array segments of a bipolar SRAM.
Studying the Impression of Saudi People towards Current Social Changes

In this work-in-progress paper, we examine how the campaign to end the guardianship law in Saudi Arabia is being discussed and debated on social media. Through a content analysis of tweets, we first identify those with either a positive or negative sentiment towards ending the law and then we identify topical themes across these sentiment categories. We found polarizing responses with individuals either calling for the end of the law or those opposing its end on religious or moral grounds. This analysis provides a basis for building a model to automatically code tweets to increase the accuracy of Arabic text prediction. This will allow us to answer new questions about the dataset and inform the design of ICTs
Fluorescence-Based Ratiometric Nanosensor for Selective Imaging of Cancer Cells

Herein, we report the synthesis and characterization of a nanosensor developed from a group of uniform materials based on organic salts (GUMBOS). This sensor is composed of three ionic species, nam...
Effect of interpregnancy interval after a first pregnancy complicated by placental abruption, on adverse maternal and fetal outcomes in a second pregnancy

Background: For women who suffer from abruption in the first pregnancy, the extent to which birth spacing has an impact on maternal and fetal outcomes in a second pregnancy remains unclear.Objectiv...
Transketolase Activity in the Formation of the Azinomycin Azabicycle Moiety

The biosynthesis of the azinomycins involves the conversion of glutamic acid to an aziridino[1,2-a]pyrrolidine moiety, which together with the epoxide moiety imparts anticancer activity to these agents. The mechanism of azabicycle formation is complex and involves at least 14 enzymatic steps. Previous research has identified N-acetyl-glutamate 5-semialdehyde as a key intermediate, which originates from protection of the amino terminus of glutamic acid and subsequent reduction of the γ-carboxylate. This study reports on the seminal discovery of a thiamin-dependent transketolase responsible for the formation of 2-acetamido-5,6-dihydroxy-6-oxoheptanoic acid, which accounts for the two-carbon extension needed to complete the carbon framework of the azabicycle moiety.
Bacteria suit up with virus armor.

Particularly with the recent outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), viruses have a bad reputation these days. However, it is important to note that viruses come in many types and can infect not only humans but almost all life forms, and their infections are not always detrimental to the host. Consider viruses that infect bacteria—“bacteriophages,“ or “phages” for short. While most phages do cause the death of their bacterial host during propagation, it has been found that a subgroup, filamentous phages, cooperate with the host to provide “services,“ such as promoting virulence or optimizing the motility of the bacterium for better fitness (1⇓–3). The relationship is akin to a facultative symbiosis by which two organisms live together and offer mutual benefits. A study by Tarafder et al. (4) reports a mechanism for this type of cooperation, in which the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa can use a filamentous phage it harbors to create a barrier around itself that defends against antibiotics—like wearing special armor made of virus molecules (Fig. 1). Fig. 1. The bacterium P. aeruginosa produces filamentous phages in its biofilm to form liquid crystals encapsulating itself for antibiotic protection. Filamentous phages are characterized by their long and thin shape (∼6 nm in diameter and ∼800 to 4,000 nm in length). The filament is composed of a helically packed capsid protein shell surrounding an extended single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) genome. As they are produced by the host, filamentous phages are assembled at the bacterial cell envelope and exported through dedicated secretion machinery (5). This allows the phage to egress without killing the host, in contrast to most other phages which are assembled in the host cytoplasm and lyse the cell to exit. The unusual lifestyle of filamentous phages … [↵][1]1Email: yi-wei.chang{at}pennmedicine.upenn.edu. [1]: #xref-corresp-1-1
A new approach to precise interval estimation for the parameters of the hypergeometric distribution

We study interval estimation for both parameters of the hypergeometric distribution: (i) the number of successes in a finite population and (ii) the size of the population. In contrast to tradition...
Deregulated Bcl-2 Family Expression Drives Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Cancer Stem Cell Survival.

Introduction: A growing body of evidence suggests that a relatively rare subset of cells within a cancer subverts properties normally ascribed to stem cells in regenerating tissues, such as enhanced self-renewal and survival capacity. Recent studies suggest that these cancer stem cells (CSC) are resistant to treatments that target rapidly dividing cells. In blast crisis chronic myeloid leukemia (BC CML) and some forms of acute myelogenous leukemia (AML), research performed by ourselves and others indicates that CSC originate from the CD34+CD38+lineage- compartment of hematopoietic cells and can serially transplant blast crisis leukemia in immunodeficient mice. Despite abundant data indicating that Bcl-2 family proteins are involved in CML progression, the importance of these proteins in CSC survival remains to be elucidated. Clinical data have shown that CML stem cells become more resistant to therapies targeting BCR-ABL with progression to blast crisis. As BCR-ABL targeted therapy initiates apoptosis, these results suggest that CML CSC may become increasingly resistant to apoptosis with progression. Based on these findings and the results from our serial transplantation experiments, we hypothesized that CML CSC deregulate apoptosis pathways by differential expression of Bcl-2 family molecules and that these changes contribute to CSC ability to survive serial transplantation. Methods: Quantitative FACS Aria analysis of Bcl-2 protein levels was compared in blast crisis (n=5) and chronic phase CML (n=3) patient samples. Mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) of Bcl-2 staining was compared between different hematopoietic populations within the patient samples. For gene expression analysis, cDNA was made from RNA isolated from sorted progenitor populations (CD34+CD38+Lin −). Isoform specific RT-PCR was used to determine expression levels of Bcl-2, Bcl-X, and Mcl-1 isoforms. Mcl-1 expression was confirmed using qPCR. In addition, preliminary experiments were performed (n=2) to determine if CSC engraftment could be reduced in vivo by targeted inhibition of Bcl-2 family molecules using Apogossypol, a clinically tested Bcl-2-family inhibitor. Briefly, immunocompromised neonatal mice were transplanted intrahepatically with luciferase GFP transduced granulocytic sarcomas from mice transplanted with BC CSC using our previously published methodology (Geron et al, Cancer Cell 2008). Transplanted mice were treated for 15 days with Apogossypol by oral gavage and engraftment was monitored by weekly bioluminescent imaging. Engraftment levels were determined by FACS analysis of human CD45+ expression in mouse livers on week 11 post-transplant. Results: Comparing the MFI of Bcl-2 staining in the entire live mononuclear cell population, we detected no statistically significant difference in levels between the blast crisis and chronic phase samples. However, when we gated on separate cell populations, differences in the Bcl-2 MFI emerged. There was a statistically significant increase (P
A 0.55mW Fractional-N PLL with a DC-DC Powered Class-D VCO Achieving Better than -66dBc Fractional and Reference Spurs for NB-IoT

This paper presents a sub-mW single supply fractional-NPLL for Narrowband IoT (NB-IoT) applications. The analog PLL meets the relatively strict spur requirement of NB-IoT while using a low power class-D oscillator with a resistive header, which improves phase noise by 3dB and reduces power consumption by 25% with negligible area overhead. The VCO, working at 729-960MHz, is powered by an on-chip DC-DC converter with 90% efficiency designed in a manner to not degrade the spur performance of the PLL, which is measured to be -67.5dBc for reference and -66.3dBc for fractional spurs.