cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Dose response models and a quantitative microbial risk assessment framework for the Mycobacterium avium complex that account for recent developments in molecular biology, taxonomy, and epidemiology.

Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) is a group of environmentally-transmitted pathogens of great public health importance. This group is known to be harbored, amplified, and selected for more human-virulent characteristics by amoeba species in aquatic biofilms. However, a quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) has not been performed due to the lack of dose response models resulting from significant heterogeneity within even a single species or subspecies of MAC, as well as the range of human susceptibilities to mycobacterial disease. The primary human-relevant species and subspecies responsible for the majority of the human disease burden and present in drinking water, biofilms, and soil are M. avium subsp. hominissuis, M. intracellulare, and M. chimaera. A critical review of the published literature identified important health endpoints, exposure routes, and susceptible populations for MAC risk assessment. In addition, data sets for quantitative dose-response functions were extracted from published in vivo animal dosing experiments. As a result, seven new exponential dose response models for human-relevant species of MAC with endpoints of lung lesions, death, disseminated infection, liver infection, and lymph node lesions are proposed. Although current physical and biochemical tests used in clinical settings do not differentiate between M. avium and M. intracellulare, differentiating between environmental species and subspecies of the MAC can aid in the assessment of health risks and control of MAC sources. A framework is proposed for incorporating the proposed dose response models into susceptible population- and exposure route-specific QMRA models.
Subunit Association and Stabilization of Butyrylcholinesterase (BChE)

The goal of this project was to determine what parts of the BChE protein are important for its tetrameric organization. In human serum the BChE molecule has a dimer of dimers structure. Dimers are covalently linked by an interchain disulfide bond between the cysteines at amino acid 571. To study the effect the disulfide bond has on tetrameric structure and stability, a recombinant mutant was engineered replacing cysteine 571 with alanine. The mutant was expressed in Chinese hamster ovary cells. Elimination of the interchain disulfide bond at amino acid 571 decreased the heat stability of the enzyme but preserved its tetrameric structure. A second mutant in which 40 amino acids were deleted from the carboxy terminus was also expressed. This mutant gave an active monomer, thus suggesting that the region involved in dimer and tetramer contact is the carboxy terminus. Additional mutations, engineered by PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) site directed mutagenesis, will allow further characterization of the tetrameric stabilization of BChE.
AI in Informal Science Education: Bringing Turing Back to Life to Perform the Turing Test

This paper describes an interactive museum exhibit featuring an avatar of Alan Turing that informs museum visitors about artificial intelligence and Turing’s seminal Turing Test for machine intelligence. The objective of the exhibit is to engage and motivate visiting children in the hope of sparking an interest in them about computer science and artificial intelligence, and cause them to consider pursuing future studies and/or careers in these fields. The exhibit interacts with the visitors, allowing them to participate in a simplified version of Turing’s test that is brief and informal to suit the limitations of a five-minute exhibit. In this exhibit, the visitor (targeted towards middle school age children) invokes an avatar of his/her own choice, and acts to endow it with human-like qualities (voice, brain, eyesight and hearing). Then, the visitor engages the avatar in a (brief) question-and-answer session to determine whether the visitor thinks that he/she is interacting with a real human on a video conference or with an avatar. We consider this interaction to be an extension of the original Turing Test because, unlike Turing’s original that used text via a teletype, this version features a graphical embodiment of an agent with which one can converse in spoken natural language. This extension serves to make passing the Turing Test more difficult, as now the avatar must not only communicate like a human, but also look, sound and act the part. It also makes the exhibit visual, dynamic and interesting to the visitors. Evaluations were performed with museum visitors, both in backrooms with prototypes as well as on the museum floor with the final version. The formative and summative evaluations performed indicated overall success in engaging the museum visitors and increasing their interest in computer science. More specifically, the formative testing, mostly done in quiet back rooms with selected test subjects, indicated that on the important questions about enjoyment of exhibit and increased interest in computer science by the test subjects, their self-reported Likert scale responses (1 being negative and 5 being positive) increased from 3.16 in the first evaluation to 4.38 in the third one for increased interest in CS. Likewise for the question about exhibit enjoyment (from 3.92 to 4.56). The summative evaluation, done through unobtrusive observation of exhibit use on museum floor, indicated that almost 74% of the parties that initiated the exhibit were either highly or moderately engaged by the exhibit. However, there was one major negative finding, namely the overly long duration of the exhibit, which may have caused premature abandonment of the exhibit in several cases during the summative evaluation. These tests and their results are presented and discussed in detail in this paper. The exhibit has been on permanent display at the Orlando (FL) Science Center since June 2014 and has received a strongly positive response from visitors since that time.
Biophysical determinants of mutational robustness in a viral molecular fitness landscape

Biophysical interactions between proteins and peptides are key determinants of genotype-fitness landscapes, but an understanding of how molecular structure and residue-level energetics at protein-peptide interfaces shape functional landscapes remains elusive. Combining information from yeast-based library screening, next-generation sequencing and structure-based modeling, we report comprehensive sequence-energetics-function mapping of the specificity landscape of the Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) NS3/4A protease, whose function — site-specific cleavages of the viral polyprotein — is a key determinant of viral fitness. We elucidate the cleavability of 3.2 million substrate variants by the HCV protease and find extensive clustering of cleavable and uncleavable motifs in sequence space indicating mutational robustness, and thereby providing a plausible molecular mechanism to buffer the effects of low replicative fidelity of this RNA virus. Specificity landscapes of known drug-resistant variants are similarly clustered. Our results highlight the key and constraining role of molecular-level energetics in shaping plateau-like fitness landscapes from quasispecies theory.
Studies on the separation of some transition metals using trialkylimidazole as selective extractant

The possibility of Cu(II) ion separation from an equimolar Cu-Cd-Zn tertiary mixture by solvent extraction was investigated. The process was based on the use of 1,2,4-trimethylimidazole (TMI) and 1- decyl-2,4-dimethylimidazole (DDMI) as extractant. Dichloromethane was used as the solvent in the extraction process. The dissociation constant of extractants were found potentiometrically. Extraction data were used for finding stability constants and partition constants for the complexes being formed in the aqueous solution. For TMI, separation coefficients for Cu(II) with regard to zinc and cadmium are 2.9 and 1.3, respectively. For DDMI separation coefficients for Cu(II) with regard to zinc and cadmium are 1.4 and 1.6, respectively. Sparingly soluble in water 1-decyl-2,4-dimethylimidazole is a more useful extractant.
Body and Movement: Basic Dynamic Principles

Embodiment is to the body as enaction is to movement.1 In each instance, the primary term of the analogy attempts to embrace an animate reality in a way compatible with the science or strand of philosophy being practiced. In each instance, however, the primary term is uncongenial to the basic reality it aims to capture and describe. The lack of fit is indirectly but substantively attested to by indices of books on embodiment and enaction: either no entry exists for the tactile-kinesthetic/affective body and kinesthesia or paltry entries exist. In effect, the foundational ontological and epistemological reality of life is missing: animation is nowhere on the map.2 The lack of fit and missing reality are furthermore attested to by the terms in which proprioception is discussed and the fact that a clear-cut distinction and substantive understanding of the difference between proprioception and kinesthesia is nowhere in evidence (see Sheets-Johnstone 1999 for more on this topic). Proprioception is, properly speaking, not a “matter of debate among philosophers” - seemingly, a matter of determining the correct answer to a multiple-choice question.3 Properly speaking, proprioception is a matter of all manner of bodily organs that sense movement and deformations, a primordial form of animate awareness that began its evolutionary career in surface recognition sensitivity - tactility in the service of movement - that evolved into different external sensors registering movement - chordotonal organs, hair plates, sensilla, cilia, and so on - and that, with the advent of internal bodily organs sensing movement through muscular effort, evolved into kinesthesia (Mill 1976; Laverack 1976; Wright 1976; Dorsett 1976; see Sheets-Johnstone 1999 for a close examination and study of the data). As is evident, proprioception is the broader term with respect to kinesthesia. It refers to a sense of movement and position that includes tactility and gravitational orientation through vestibular sensory organs as well as kinesthesia. As its etymology indicates, kinesthesia in its primary, that is, experiential, sense denotes an awareness of movement, hence an awareness of dynamics, hence an awareness of a qualitatively felt kinetic flow. The flow may be felt as smooth, expansive, abrupt, attenuated, jagged, linear, curved, constricted, slow, and so on, including any and all possible combinations as the flow unfolds. Given the inherent qualitative spatio-temporal-energic character of kinesthesia, it is hardly surprising that discussions of body and of movement that omit kinesthesia from their register omit the very stuff of life and the qualitative nature of that stuff. They omit animation.
A SHRINKING KIDNEY IN A FIBROMUSCULAR DYSPLASIA PATIENT: A CASE FOR HEMODYNAMIC ASSESSMENT!

Symptomatic renal fibromuscular dysplasia (RFMD) occurs in 0.4% of the general population and presents most frequently as renovascular hypertension. Revascularization is generally considered in patients with medically refractory hypertension. A 51-year-old woman with multifocal FMD of bilateral
The polar adventures of a rich American Dame: a life of Louise Arner Boyd

California native, Louise Arner Boyd (1887–1972), inherited a fortune and spent much of it on Polar exploration. Boyd had no formal education in a scientific discipline, only a passion for the high...
DVE system capability classes

The characterization of a Degraded Visual Environment (DVE) System is often focused on the sensors and system architecture. This paper puts forth the case for developing a standard set of rotary-wing DVE system classes based on what the DVE System can do, rather than how it is implemented. This approach supports development of a standard set of safety criteria, and allowable intended uses for each particular class of DVE System. It also controls the relative cost of the DVE System, as the class drives safety criteria, system architecture, and certification costs. Industry can then develop or envision technical solutions to meet those standards, and users can better understand the performance versus cost tradeoffs of the various classes. The DVE industry currently has little or no definition of such classes and is largely left with an ad hoc approach. This concept borrows from the Instrument Landing System (ILS) categories, where the capability is defined by five categories (CAT I, CAT II, CAT IIIa, CAT IIIb, and CAT IIIc). Operators and pilots are not necessarily aware of the technical solution, such as number of antennas, receivers, or amount of redundancy, instead the categories clearly identify the capabilities of each category of system. This paper develops a set of DVE system classes to provide a context for future development of safety criteria and technical solutions.
Experimental Modal Analysis of an Aircraft Fuselage Panel: Part II

Hypersonic aircraft structures must operate in complex loading conditions and very high temperatures, making the design of a robust and reusable platform very challenging. An analytical and experimental test program was developed by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) and industry. The objective of the program is to review the design process of a thin skinned aircraft panel subjected to combined thermal-acoustic-mechanical loading, through a series of laboratory experiments at the AFRL’s Structural Dynamics Laboratory.
Advanced Endoscopic Imaging in the Upper Gastrointestinal Tract

Advanced endoscopic imaging incorporates several methods to enhance visualization of the upper gastrointestinal tract. It is an evolving field within advanced endoscopy and particularly important for the endoscopist performing ESD, as these modalities can aid all stages of ESD. Advanced imaging involves several different techniques, from chromoendoscopy (e.g. Lugol’s solution, methylene blue, indigo carmine), to optical enhancement methods (e.g. magnified endoscopy, narrow band imaging, confocal endomicroscopy) and electronic methods (e.g. spectrometry, optical coherence tomography). Frequently, a combination of techniques is utilized to maximize visualization of the lesion and surrounding mucosa. The endoscopist performing ESD needs to be familiarized with these tools. As these technologies continue to improve our visualization of the mucosa and ongoing research standardizes and validates lesion pattern recognition, it is only a matter of time before these imaging modalities become standard practice.
Substance abuse prevention: Moving from science to policy

Substance abuse exacts tremendous social and economic costs in the United States, making a response to this problem a priority for policy makers at all levels of government. Although little argument exists about whether government should play a role in substance abuse control, considerable debate has been generated about exactly what that role should be. Currently, the United States spends about twice as much on supply reduction as demand reduction strategies. Supply reduction strategies, such as law enforcement and interdiction, are often harsh and based on little or no scientific evidence that demonstrates efficacy. As a demand reduction strategy, drug treatment has been demonstrated to be cost-effective. Substance abuse prevention, however, has failed to establish a critical body of research with which to make its case. This paper suggests several direct ways in which prevention science can influence public policy and thus move prevention science to more effective substance abuse prevention policy.
DayCent Model Simulations for Estimating Soil Carbon Dynamics and Greenhouse Gas Fluxes from Agricultural Production Systems

DayCent is a biogeochemical model of intermediate complexity used to simulate carbon, nutrient, and greenhouse gas fluxes for crop, grassland, forest, and savanna ecosystems. Model inputs include: soil texture and hydraulic properties, current and historical land use, vegetation cover, daily maximum and minimum temperature, and daily precipitation. The latest version allows daily (instead of monthly) scheduling of management events and calculates plant production at a daily (instead of weekly) time step. The ability of the model to simulate crop yields, soil carbon changes, N 2 O emissions, and NO 3 leaching was tested using data from different irrigated and rainfed cropping systems. DayCent has recently been applied to calculate N 2 O emissions from cropped and grazed soils for the U.S. National Greenhouse Gas Inventory and to perform life-cycle analysis of greenhouse gas fluxes for biofuel cropping systems. Future versions of the model will more completely represent the range of greenhouse gas mitigation options available with current technologies.
A Conversation About Film, Activism and Social Media with Disability Activist/Filmmaker Dominick Evans

An informal interview with Disability Activist/Filmmaker Dominick Evans. Topics include film and media representation of people with disability and the use of social media in activism.
Dynamic Sulfur Bonds Initiate Polymerization of Vinyl and Allyl Ethers at Mild Temperatures

Elemental sulfur (S8) is produced in abundance during petroleum refinement, generating millions of tons of waste. Inverse vulcanization utilizes this waste as a feedstock to create new materials. Heating S8 above 159 °C initiates ring-opening, forming radicals that react with difunctional monomers to create polysulfides. High temperature requirements limit the types of monomers that can be incorporated by inverse vulcanization. However, cleaving the linear sulfur chains present in the polysulfides requires less energy. Here, poly(S–divinylbenzene) with varied sulfur contents has been synthesized to act as a prepolymer capable of radical formation at much lower temperatures (90 °C). Dynamic sulfur bonds initiate polymerization with a family of vinylic and allylic ethers. Terpolymers were characterized by NMR spectroscopy, gel permeation chromatography, and differential scanning calorimetry to examine the impact on structure and physical properties. This method expands on inverse vulcanized polymers to crea...
Abstract P256: Development of an Automated High Throughput Screen for GRK4 as Potential Novel Therapeutics for Treatment of Hypertension and/or Salt Sensitivity

G protein coupled kinase type 4 (GRK4) reduces renal sodium excretion by deactivating the renal dopamine type 1 receptor (D1R) through serine phosphorylation. At least 3 polymorphisms in GRK4 have ...
Redox chemistry of CeO2 nanoparticles in aquatic systems containing Cr(VI)(aq) and Fe2+ ions

CeO2 nanoparticles (NPs) are extensively used in industrial applications owing to their high redox-catalytic activities and, as a result, may appear in aquatic environments where other redox-active species may coexist. To better predict the fate and transport of these nanomaterials, a comprehensive, mechanistic understanding of the physicochemical behaviors and transformation of CeO2 NPs in complex, redox-active aqueous systems is needed. In this study, we investigated redox reactions of CeO2 NPs with Fe2+ and Cr(VI) (i.e., model redox-sensitive species) at pH 5. We found that the coexistence of 0.1 mM Fe2+ and 1 (or 5) μM Cr(VI)(aq) promoted formation of Fe(III) (hydr)oxides and increased CeO2 NP colloidal stability. Specifically, without Cr(VI), Ce3+(aq) was rapidly released from the CeO2/Fe2+ redox reaction, while the subsequent oxidation of Fe2+ to Fe3+ and formation of Fe(III) (hydr)oxides was slow. However, when Fe2+ and Cr(VI) coexist with CeO2 NPs, the dissolution of CeO2 NPs was slower than without Cr(VI), and Fe(III) (hydr)oxide precipitation on and near CeO2 NPs significantly increased. The fast formation of Fe(III) (hydr)oxides can be attributed to facilitated Fe3+ hydrolysis by Cr(VI)(aq). Consequently, these new hybrid Fe(III)–CeO2 NPs (i.e., CeO2 NPs coated with Fe(III) solid phases) formed during redox-induced surface transformations exhibited a higher hydrophilicity, a more positive surface charge, and a greater colloidal stability compared to CeO2 NPs in systems without Cr(VI). These findings reveal unexplored changes in surface chemistry and mobility of CeO2 nanomaterials in complex redox-active aqueous systems.
Model Predictive Control of a Wave Energy Converter Using Duality Techniques

In this paper, a method for implementing model predictive control for vibration energy harvesting systems with the goal of maximizing generated energy is presented. This is generally a nonconvex problem, which can be computationally expensive and converging to a global minimum cannot be guaranteed. We introduce a dual-domain method to relax the nonconvex primal problem into a convex dual optimization problem, which can be performed in real time. Based on previous work, we determine when the duality gap is zero and, by extension, whether the global optimal primal solution is found. We demonstrate the algorithm on a single, buoy-type wave energy converter with energy storage constraints and power take-off force constraints.
The Role of Pazopanib in Non-Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Systematic Review

Pazopanib is a protein tyrosine kinase inhibitor that limits tumor growth through angiogenesis inhibition. The use of other protein tyrosine kinase inhibitors, specifically sunitinib, within non-clear cell renal cell carcinoma (nccRCC) has led to increased survival with a decreased adverse event profile. The data for the treatment of nccRCC is limited, with most studies evaluating the use of sunitinib. Therefore, the evaluation of pazopanib is of particular clinical interest in the treatment of nccRCC. The objective of this systematic review was to assess the efficacy and safety of pazopanib for nccRCC. PubMed (1946 to April 2019) and Embase (1947 to April 2019) were queried using the search term combination: protein tyrosine kinase inhibitor or pazopanib and non clear cell renal cell carcinoma or non-clear cell renal cell carcinoma. Studies evaluating clinical outcomes of pazopanib for nccRCC were included, represented by 3 retrospective cohort studies and 1 single-arm, open-label prospective study. In patients with advanced or metastatic nccRCC, treatment with pazopanib resulted in positive effects for multiple markers of efficacy, including progression-free survival, overall survival, and objective response rates. The median duration of follow-up ranged from 11.8 months to 24.4 months. Pazopanib was well-tolerated in most studies. The most commonly reported adverse events were fatigue, diarrhea, and hypertension. Pazopanib appears to be an effective and safe option for the treatment of advanced or metastatic nccRCC. Future investigation with larger randomized controlled trials is warranted to further define the role of pazopanib in patients with nccRCC.
Dissolved amino acids in oceanic basaltic basement fluids

Abstract The oceanic basaltic basement contains the largest aquifer on Earth and potentially plays an important role in the global carbon cycle as a net sink for dissolved organic carbon (DOC). However, few details of the organic matter cycling in the subsurface are known because great water depths and thick sediments typically hinder direct access to this environment. In an effort to examine the role of water–rock–microorganism interaction on organic matter cycling in the oceanic basaltic crust, basement fluid samples collected from three borehole observatories installed on the eastern flank of the Juan de Fuca Ridge were analyzed for dissolved amino acids. Our data show that dissolved free amino acids (1–13 nM) and dissolved hydrolyzable amino acids (43–89 nM) are present in the basement. The amino acid concentrations in the ridge-flank basement fluids are at the low end of all submarine hydrothermal fluids reported in the literature and are similar to those in deep seawater. Amino acids in recharging deep seawater, in situ amino acid production, and diffusional input from overlying sediments are potential sources of amino acids in the basement fluids. Thermodynamic modeling shows that amino acid synthesis in the basement can be sustained by energy supplied from inorganic substrates via chemolithotrophic metabolisms. Furthermore, an analysis of amino acid concentrations and compositions in basement fluids support the notion that heterotrophic activity is ongoing. Similarly, the enrichment of acidic amino acids and depletion of hydrophobic ones relative to sedimentary particulate organic matter suggests that surface sorption and desorption also alters amino acids in the basaltic basement. In summary, although the oceanic basement aquifer is a net sink for deep seawater DOC, similar amino acid concentrations in basement aquifer and deep seawater suggest that DOC is preferentially removed in the basement over dissolved amino acids. Our data also suggest that organic carbon cycling occurs in the oceanic basaltic basement, where an active subsurface biosphere is likely responsible for amino acid synthesis and degradation.
Connecting online students to their higher learning institution

Establishing a sense of community is important for student success in online learning environments. However, how online graduate students experience a sense of community in higher learning institut...
Mortality of multiple myeloma diagnosed peri-hospitalization.

e20553Background: Although modern therapeutics for multiple myeloma (MM) have resulted in improved overall survival (OS) in recent years, patients who present with an acute disease-related complica...
Students’ multidimensional profiles of math engagement: Predictors and outcomes from a self‐system motivational perspective

Background Math engagement research has been largely limited to examining the unique and additive relations of engagement dimensions with outcomes. However, an emerging perspective is that students may simultaneously invest varying degrees of their distinct energetic resources (e.g., cognitive vs. emotional) in their interactions with the math learning environment. Aims Adopting a person-centred perspective, we examined unique latent subpopulations of adolescents' multidimensional math engagement. Importantly, we did so while accounting for generality and specificity in engagement data, including general engagement and specific cognitive, emotional, and social engagement dimensions. Additionally, we examined students' math self-efficacy, outcome expectations, and gender as predictors, and math achievement indices as outcomes, of profile membership. Sample The sample comprised 400 Australian school students taking mandatory math classes. Methods Data on students' multidimensional engagement, math self-efficacy, math outcome expectations, and demographic characteristics were collected at the beginning of the academic semester. Standardized test scores and class grades were retrieved at the end of the semester. Results Latent profile analyses, based on preliminary bifactor exploratory structural equation models intended to tease apart generality from specificity in engagement data, revealed 'Minimally Engaged', 'Emotionally Disengaged', and 'Moderately-to-Highly Engaged' profiles. Additionally, math self-efficacy, outcome expectations, and gender were found to predict the likelihood of profile membership. Finally, class grades, but not standardized test scores, were found to significantly differ across the profiles, accounting for prior achievement, gender, and grade level. Conclusions The findings replicate previous work that has shown profiles of student engagement and extend this work by (1) accounting for known generality and specificity in engagement data and (2) obtaining evidence for relations of profile membership with gender, self-beliefs, and achievement.
An Acoustic Waveguide With Tight Field Confinement for High Temperature Sensing

A fused quartz acoustic waveguide structure was reported as the suspended core waveguide. The waveguide featured good acoustic wave confinement within the core and a relatively small diameter. Consistent high-temperature sensing was also demonstrated with the waveguide after a temperature sensor was fabricated inside. The waveguide was fabricated by suspending its core rod in the middle of the hollow cladding tube by discrete thin supporting disks. It was found that the characteristics of acoustic propagation in the waveguide was similar to that in a bare core rod and that the waveguide was largely insensitive to lossy surface perturbations. The diameter of the waveguide was relatively small, little more than the bulk longitudinal acoustic wavelength. For sensing, the periodic structure, the acoustic fiber Bragg grating, was fabricated on the core of the suspended core waveguide. A temperature test up to 1000 °C was performed. The central frequency of the reflected acoustic wave was found to change unidirectionally and consistently with changes in temperature. With its good field confinement and consistent sensing capabilities, the suspended core waveguide could find vast potential in many applications.
Size-Dependent PbS Quantum Dot Surface Chemistry Investigated via Gel Permeation Chromatography

We report the first comprehensive study on the purification of PbS quantum dots (QDs) using gel permeation chromatography (GPC). GPC enables the efficient and repeatable separation of unbound small...
Leadership Survival, Regime Type, Policy Uncertainty and PTA Accession

Preferential trade agreements (PTAs) limit member-states’ trade policy discretion; consequently, policy uncertainty is mitigated. Reductions in policy uncertainty stemming from accession to a PTA improve the resource allocation decisions of the voters and reduce deadweight losses from the need to self-insure against policy uncertainty. The resultant increase in efficiency improves an incumbent government's—particularly a democratic government's—chance of surviving in office. We test this prediction using survival analysis, adjusting for potential selection biases using propensity score matching. We find robust support for the proposition that governments that sign PTAs survive longer in office than observationally similar governments that do not sign. In addition, we find that this effect is stronger in democracies than in autocracies.
The Nature of Adjustment in Cumulus Cloud Fields

By adjustment (in the context of cumulus parameterization) we mean the physical mechanisms whereby the internal state of a system changes so as to stay in quasi equilibrium with time-varying forcings. Built into the notion of adjustment is an assumption that the internal adjustment mechanisms act much faster than the external forcings change. Implicit assumptions about adjustment underlie all cumulus parameterizations. Since the considerations addressed in this chapter are quite general, we will not refer to specific parameterizations, except to note that several of the parameterizations discussed in this monograph address some of the issues raised in the last section of this chapter regarding horizontal inhomogeneity due to noninstantaneous adjustment within a grid area.
AIG Case Study Applied to the Efficient Capital Market Hypothesis and the Legal Theory of Finance

In 2008, AIG found itself on the brink of failure and required the Federal Reserve to step in with billions of dollars of taxpayer money. The causes of AIG’s collapse have been described in numerous articles and official reports since then. Albeit some nuances, all analyzes point to AIG’s credit default swap (CDS) activity as the major contributing factor. The purpose of this paper is to discuss how theoretical frameworks on finance can explain the collapse associated with the CDS exposure. In Part I, I will briefly summarize AIG’s downward spiral. Part II looks at two different theoretical frameworks that could help explain this distress, the Efficient Capital Market Hypothesis (ECMH) and KATHARINA PISTOR’s Legal Theory of Finance (LTF). Finally, Part III will attempt to draw lessons for the future based on the theoretical approaches that have been discussed.
Cell components in the immune response. IV. Relationships and possible interactions.

Abstract In the previous papers in this series it was shown that mouse spleen cell populations could be separated into various subpopulations that were less responsive to sheep erythrocytes in an in vitro culture system. Attached and nonattached cells were separated by differential attachment to glass and plastic surfaces and A- and D-band populations were obtained as light and dense cell populations on an albumin density gradient. In this paper it is shown that attached and A-band cells are equally effective in their ability to restore the response of precursor cells present in either the nonattached or D-band populations. This restorative activity is not abolished by X-irradiation. Cell-free culture supernatant fractions of the attached cells also gave significant restoration of the response in many but not all of a series of experiments. These observations are discussed and are compared with the recent findings of other workers. It is suggested that the findings are compatible with a three-cell model of cellular interaction in the initiation of the immune response but do not of themselves establish such a theory. It is pointed out that the factors which were demonstrated might equally well affect the proliferative phase of the response and produce their effects by variation in the number of antibody-forming progeny which could be obtained from a single stimulated precursor.
Chapter 45 Estimation and inference for dependent processes

This chapter provides an overview of asymptotic results available for parametric estimators in dynamic models. Three cases are treated: stationary (or essentially stationary) weakly dependent data, weakly dependent data containing deterministic trends, and nonergodic data (or data with stochastic trends). Estimation of asymptotic covariance matrices and computation of the major test statistics are covered. Examples include multivariate least squares estimation of a dynamic conditional mean, quasi-maximum likelihood estimation of a jointly parameterized conditional mean and conditional variance, and generalized method of moments estimation of orthogonality conditions. Some results for linear models with integrated variables are provided, as are some abstract limiting distribution results for nonlinear models with trending data.
Time Dependence and the Opacity of Type Ia SupernovÆ

The practice of computing theoretical light curves and spectra from models for Type Ia supernova (Sne la) explosions has advanced considerably in the past few years (see the papers by Eastman, by Hoflich, and by Baron in this volume). In this contribution we do not wish to exhibit such light curves of great sophistication but rather to take a critical look at the underlying physics and produce a critical evaluation of the likely reliability of the state of the art.
Current trends in special education in the United States

Special education programs must provide a rational and valid answer to the question as to what is “special” about them. Does their distinctive or special nature lie in the content to be taught, in the special skills that are stimulated, or in the design of the educational ecology? A full decade of rapidly expanding programs in the US has generated a promising base for an increasingly sophisticated answer to these questions for children with a variety of handicapping conditions.
Organization of Gene Function in Bacillus subtilis Bacteriophage SP82G

A generalized assessment of the functions of 26 genes of SP82G, a bacteriophage of Bacillus subtilis, has been made. The production of phage-specific deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), DNA-filled phage heads, completed phage particles, phage-specific antigen, and developmental aberrations has been examined in lysates of temperature-sensitive mutants grown under selective conditions. The genes show a tendency to occur on the genome in three groups of related function: genes involved with DNA synthesis, with tail synthesis, and with head synthesis.
Structure of twist-grain-boundary– C phases

We study properties of the Renn-Lubensky twist-grain-boundary--$C$ $({\mathrm{TGB}}_{C})$ phase, with layer normal rotating in a plane perpendicular to the pitch axis, and the Bordeaux ${\mathrm{TGB}}_{C}$ phase, with the layer normal rotating on a cone parallel to the pitch axis near the upper critical twist ${k}_{c2}$ marking the transition to the cholesteric phase. We introduce a generalized model free energy for the smectic-$C$ phase that allows either ${\mathrm{TGB}}_{C}$ phase to be stable, and we calculate ${k}_{c2}$ and the order-parameter profile, which shows only modest spatial variation, for both phases.
Student Strategies Suggesting Emergence of Mental Structures Supporting Logical and Abstract Thinking: Multiplicative Reasoning

For many students, developing mathematical reasoning can prove to be challenging. Such difficulty may be explained by a deficit in the core understanding of many arithmetical concepts taught in early school years. Multiplicative reasoning is one such concept that produces an essential foundation upon which higher-level mathematical thinking skills are built. The purpose of this study is to recognize indicators of multiplicative reasoning among fourth-grade students. Through cross-case analysis, the researcher used a test instrument to observe patterns of multiplicative reasoning at varying levels in a sample of 14 math students from a low socioeconomic school. Results indicate that the participants fell into three categories: premultiplicative, emergent, and multiplier. Consequently, 12 new sublevels were developed that further describe the multiplicative thinking of these fourth graders within the categories mentioned. Rather than being provided the standard mathematical algorithms, students should be encouraged to personally develop their own unique explanations, formulas, and understanding of general number system mechanics. When instructors are aware of their students' distinctive methods of determining multiplicative reasoning strategies and multiplying schemes, they are more apt to provide the most appropriate learning environment for their students.
Pharmacodynamic Effects When Clopidogrel is Given Before Cangrelor Discontinuation

Objective To determine whether initiation of clopidogrel before discontinuation of cangrelor would impact on the recovery of platelet reactivity. Background The active metabolite of clopidogrel cannot bind to P2Y12 when cangrelor occupies the receptor. Pharmacodynamic studies have shown that this interaction is avoided when clopidogrel is given at the end of the cangrelor infusion. We found that antiplatelet effects of another thienopyridine, prasugrel, were apparent when prasugrel was administered 0.5 hour before cangrelor was stopped. Methods Platelet function studies (light transmission aggregometry, VerifyNow, and flow cytometry) were performed on blood from patients with stable coronary artery disease who were taking aspirin when a loading dose of clopidogrel (600 mg) was given during a cangrelor infusion (0.5 and 1 hour before cangrelor was stopped). Results were compared with those obtained when clopidogrel was given immediately after cangrelor was stopped. Results Administration of clopidogrel 0.5 and 1 hour before discontinuation of the cangrelor infusion did not prevent recovery of platelet reactivity more effectively than administration at the end of the infusion. Conclusion Our results support the previously established strategy of administering clopidogrel immediately after discontinuation of cangrelor. Earlier administration increases the recovery of platelet function. (J Interven Cardiol 2015;28:415–419)
Oppenheimer-Snyder collapse in polar time slicing

Oppenheimer-Snyder collapse provides a good test-bed calculation for general-relativistic numerical codes that evolve matter in strong gravitational fields. Such codes are often based on the Arnowitt-Deser-Misner 3+1 formalism, for which an appropriate choice of coordinates (lapse and shift functions) is the key to a successful spacetime evolution. Polar time slicing has been proposed as a good choice of time coordinate because of its singularity-avoidance features. We express the entire Oppenheimer-Snyder solution analytically in polar time slicing to facilitate calibrations of numerical codes written in this gauge. We examine two possible choices of radial coordinate: isotropic and Schwarzschild. We find that, while polar slicing does indeed hold back collapse near the center of a black hole, it is not alone sufficient to allow a singularity-free numerical evolution. For example, with the Schwarzschild radial coordinate the radial metric coefficient develops an ever-increasing spike at the surface of the black hole. This does not occur in isotropic coordinates, where the metric coefficient reaches a finite maximum value at the center. By contrast, the isotropic radial metric coefficient in maximal time slicing diverges exponentially at the center at late times. These generic features may be important in constructing a numerical code.
The catalytic mechanism of Fpg protein. Evidence for a Schiff base intermediate and amino terminus localization of the catalytic site.

Abstract Our recent structure-activity analysis of Fpg protein of Escherichia coli, using oligodeoxynucleotides containing various 8-oxopurine derivatives, has allowed us to postulate an enzyme mechanism involving protonation of 8-oxoguanine at O-6 and nucleophilic attack of the deoxyribose moiety at C-1′ leading to the formation of an enzyme- substrate Schiff base intermediate (Tchou, J., Bodepudi, V., Shibutani, S., Antoshechkin, I., Miller, J., Grollman, A. P., and Johnson, F. (1994) J. Biol. Chem. 269, 15318-15324). In this paper, sodium cyanoborohydride has been used to convert the transient intermediate to a covalent enzyme-DNA complex. The location of the active site of Fpg protein is further delineated using two approaches. 1) A radiolabeled DNA substrate is used to tag the active site of Fpg protein, using sodium cyanoborohydride. The active site is mapped to the first 73 amino acid residue fragment by cyanogen bromide cleavage analysis. 2) A maltose-binding protein fusion system is used to generate amino- terminal modifications of Fpg protein to explore the role of the amino- terminal region in DNA binding and catalysis. Results support the conclusion that the active site of Fpg protein is located at or near the amino terminus. Thus, Fpg protein may act in a similar fashion as T4 endonuclease V, a DNA repair enzyme that uses its amino-terminal alpha-amino group of threonine to carry out catalysis via Schiff base formation (Dodson et al., 1993).
An overview of chemical and physical routes to advanced ceramic powders

Abstract To produce ceramic components with reliable and reproducible properties, it is important to use powders with controlled properties. Until recently, ceramic powders were prepared by methods which were difficult to control and did not lead directly to powders with the desired physical properties. Improved powder production methods and new chemical methods have been developed for producing powders with controlled morphologies, purities, and particle size distributions. These chemical methods include solution and gas phase techniques. An overview of these approaches and others currently used to produce advanced ceramic powders is discussed.
Parvovirus B19 dna in kidney tissue of patients with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis

Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) represents a clinicopathological syndrome with diverse causes. We examined the possibility that some cases of FSGS are associated with parvovirus B19 infection. We studied renal biopsy tissue from 40 patients, including those with idiopathic FSGS, collapsing FSGS, membranous nephropathy, and minimal change disease, as well as normal renal tissue removed at the time of nephrectomy from 4 patients. DNA was extracted from frozen blocks of kidney tissue and amplified using nested polymerase chain reaction. Parvovirus B19 DNA was amplified from 8 of 10 patients with idiopathic FSGS, 9 of 10 patients with collapsing FSGS, 6 of 10 patients with membranous nephropathy, 5 of 10 patients with minimal change disease, and 2 of 4 cancer nephrectomy samples. The prevalence of parvovirus B19 DNA was greater among patients with idiopathic FSGS and collapsing FSGS compared with patients with other diagnoses (P = 0.05). In situ hybridization studies using digoxigenin-labeled DNA probes failed to detect parvovirus B19 nucleic acid in any of the kidney tissue samples. These results suggest that parvovirus B19 DNA is commonly found in the kidneys of patients with a range of renal diagnoses, possibly representing latent DNA from past infection. The failure to localize parvovirus B19 nucleic acid within kidney argues against ongoing, high-level viral replication. Nevertheless, the increased prevalence of B19 DNA in patients with idiopathic FSGS and collapsing FSGS could indicate a pathogenic role for the virus in the cause of FSGS in certain patients.
Limb bone stresses during fast locomotion in the African lion and its bovid prey

Peak stresses during fast locomotion in the humerus and tibia of the African lion have been estimated from a filmed prey pursuit sequence and skeletal dimensions of museum specimens; safety factors of the two bones have been calculated. The results are compared with the peak stresses (and the corresponding safety factors) during fast locomotion in the humerus and tibia of large (buffalo) and small (antelope) African bovids, which the lion is known to prey upon, estimated by previous authors using similar methodology. The comparison suggests that both the humerus and the tibia of a running lion have higher safety factors than those of its bovid prey running at the same speed.
Limb Stress-Rest Perfusion Imaging With Contrast Ultrasound For The Assessment Of Peripheral Arterial Disease Severity

Limb Stress-Rest Perfusion Imaging With Contrast Ultrasound for the Assessment of Peripheral Arterial Disease SeverityJonathan R. Lindner, Lisa Womack, Eugene J. Barrett, Judy Weltman, Wendy Price,...
The Movement against Clitoridectomy and Infibulation in Sudan: Public Health Policy and the Women's Movement

[Ellen Gruenbaum is a PhD Candidate in the Department of Anthropology at the University of Connecticut, having received graduate training in a joint program with the Department of Community Medicine in Social Sciences and Health Services. She spent five years in Sudan, during which time she served on the faculty of the Department of Anthropology and Sociology at the University of Khartoum and carried out research projects for the Sudanese National Economic and Social Research Council, the F.A.O., and the Ministry of Social Affairs, as well as completing her doctoral research. The title of her dissertation, which she expects to complete in 1982, is “Health Services, Health and Development in Sudan: The Impact on the Gezira Irrigated Scheme.” For the past two years she has been Research Associate in the Department of Community Medicine at the University of the Connecticut School of Medicine, coordinating the Cross-National Study of Health Systems Program. She is also coeditor of the Comparative Health Systems Newsletter.]
The “Mozart Effect” on Epileptiform Activity:

The "Mozart Effect," using the Piano Sonata in D Major (K.448), was examined in patients with seizures. In 23 of 29 instances significant decreases in epileptiform activity were noted from patients even in coma, with status epilepticus or with periodic lateralized epileptiform discharges (PLEDs). The effect may be immediate or require 40-300 sec to manifest itself. The change in the amount of ictal activity in one patient in coma was from 62% before the music to 21% during Mozart. Amplitudes of these discharges also have often decreased. Examples of PLEDs on both temporal areas are shown in which the effect was only on the left temporal area but in other patients only on the right temporal area. Brain maps during the music showed theta and alpha activity decreased on the central areas, while delta waves increased on the frontal midline area. The basis of this effect is likely that the superorganization of the cerebral cortex with its highly structured radial columns seen throughout both hemispheres may resonate with the superior architecture of Mozart's music.