cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A generalized surveillance model with applications to systems safety

This paper presents a generalized surveillance model for predicting the performance of complex systems consisting of many subsystems (units). These subsystems are frequently inspected to keep the entire system operating satisfactorily. Systems of this type are encountered in many areas, including nuclear power plant, national defense system, transportation stations, medical monitoring control rooms, etc. The particular application that motivated a development of this model is an FAA project, where we were asked to develop a surveillance model to better understand both the inspection process and the repair station itself and to provide information that can be used to assist inspectors in scheduling and prioritizing their visits to the stations. A distinguishing feature of this surveillance model is that it combines two mutually dependent stochastic processes. One is a two-stage stochastic process for the occurrence of unfavorable condition in an individual subsystem and the other is a nonhomogeneous Poisson process for the frequency of surveillance.
Photochemical origins of burn-in degradation in small molecular weight organic photovoltaic cells

Using a combination of Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and physics-based degradation models, we find that the early aging of small molecular weight organic photovoltaic (OPV) cells is due to photochemical degradation of the C60 acceptor layer. Planar and mixed boron subphthalocyanine chloride (SubPc)-donor/C60-acceptor heterojunctions show significant changes in their IR absorption spectra after aging under illumination, which we find is due to exciton-mediated photo-oligomerization of C60. The consequent decrease in exciton diffusion length in the C60 layer results from a decreased exciton lifetime for C60 oligomers (e.g. C120 and C180) compared to that of the monomer. The model describes the short-circuit current reduction in planar SubPc/C60 OPV cells during early aging, and explains the lack of degradation in analogous mixed heterojunctions.
Intensive Concurrent Chemoradiotherapy for Head and Neck Cancer with 5-Fluorouracil- and Hydroxyurea-Based Regimens: Reversing a Pattern of Failure

Combined modality programs that were developed over the past two decades demonstrated that the nonsurgical therapy of locoregionally advanced head and neck cancer is feasible and produces survival outcomes that are at least comparable with surgery. The systemic therapy of head and neck cancer has gained momentum in recent years. Several randomized studies have shown that the concurrent administration of chemotherapy and radiation therapy is superior to radiation therapy alone. In consecutive clinical studies since 1986, we have developed multiagent chemoradiotherapy regimens based on initial observations with the 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), hydroxyurea, and concomitant radiotherapy combination. Three consecutive multicenter phase II trials reported that the combination of 5-FU and hydroxyurea with either cisplatin or paclitaxel along with twice daily radiation therapy administered every other week is a highly effective regimen with local control rates that approach 90% and 3-year survival rates of approximately 60% in patients with stage IV disease. The vast majority of patients in these studies achieved anatomical organ preservation. A reversal of the historical pattern of failure was evident, with distant sites becoming the predominant site of failure in each trial. The paclitaxel-containing regimen was better tolerated than the cisplatin-containing regimen and was advanced to further clinical testing. The incorporation of induction chemotherapy may improve the results of treatment by targeting systemic micrometastatic disease. The Oncologist 2003;8:350-360
Randomized trial of a statewide home visiting program to prevent child abuse: impact in reducing parental risk factors

Abstract Objectives: To assess the impact of a home visiting program in reducing malleable parental risk factors for child abuse in families of newborns identified, through population-based screening, as at-risk of child abuse. Methods: This randomized trial focused on Healthy Start Program (HSP) sites operated by three community-based organizations on Oahu, HI, USA. From 11/94 to 12/95, 643 families were enrolled and randomly assigned to intervention and control groups. Mothers in both groups were interviewed annually for 3 years (88% follow-up each year) to measure mental health, substance use, and partner violence. HSP records were reviewed to measure home visiting services provided. Home visitors were surveyed annually to measure their perceived competence. Results: Malleable parental risks for child abuse were common at baseline. There was no significant overall program effect on any risk or on at-risk mothers’ desire for and use of community services to address risks. There was a significant reduction in one measure of poor mental health at one agency and a significant reduction in maternal problem alcohol use and repeated incidents of physical partner violence for families receiving ≥75% of visits called for in the model. Home visitors often failed to recognize parental risks and seldom linked families with community resources. HSP training programs were under-developed in preparing staff to address risks and to link families with community resources. Conclusions: Overall, the home visiting program did not reduce major risk factors for child abuse that made families eligible for service. Research is needed to develop and test strategies to improve home visiting effectiveness in reducing parental risks for child abuse.
Trophoblastic disease monitoring: Evaluation of pregnancy-specific β1-glycoprotein

Abstract Pregnancy-specific β 1 -glycoprotein (SP 1 ) was evaluated as a potential marker protein for monitoring trophoblastic disease. Four patients with post-molar pregnancy accompanied by spontaneous titer remission and three patients with nonmetastatic trophoblastic disease were found to have regression curves for both human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and SP 1 which closely followed each other. Of three patients with metastatic choriocarcinoma, two were shown to have discordant hCG and SP 1 patterns. SP 1 in both cases was plateauing or rising while hCG continued to fall. Two other patients are described, one with a spontaneous remission, and one who previously had had choriocarcinoma and was found to have low levels of hCG with higher levels of SP 1 .
Translating Problem-Oriented Languages

The problem of establishing an effective communication medium between a program and its users is often overlooked by software engineers. This is unfortunate, since the input system is one of only three aspects of a computer program that are directly experienced by its users. Problem oriented languages (POL'S) have been shown to be more effective than some of the other communication mechanisms available today. Unfortunately, POL's have become somewhat synonymous with big systems such as ICES and have not been employed as frequently as they should be. This paper presents the ideas behind POL translation and the concepts behind using a simple programming tool called SCAN. Software engineers can use SCAN to easily create POL's without resorting to the use of large systems such as ICES, POLO, and GENESYS.
White Man’s Virtual World: A Systematic Content Analysis of Gender and Race in Massively Multiplayer Online Games

Based on previous research indicating that character portrayals in video games and other media can influence users’ perceptions of social reality, systematic content analyses have examined demographic trends in the way video game characters are portrayed. Although these studies have extensively documented character portrayals in traditional console and computer video games, there is a lack of content analyses examining character portrayals in the very popular massively multiplayer online game (MMO) genre. Such studies are needed because many characters in MMOs are customized avatars created by users, which may lead to different trends in character demographics. This content analysis examined representations of gender and race among 417 unique characters appearing 1,356 times in 20 hours of recorded content from four popular commercial MMOs, which was generated by five recruited users. Characters tended to be disproportionately male and white, with females and racial minorities appearing much less often. Implications for potential effects on users’ perceptions of social reality are discussed.
Conclusion: Pedagogy as Art

To start, I summarize my method concretely, by way of a few more brief lesson-scenarios; then I summarize my method more abstractly, explaining the syntheses I have tried to accomplish; then I address the ideological ramifications of my approach and some potential critiques; I finish with one last musical example, giving Beethoven the last word. I conclude by arguing for a very precise sense in which music pedagogy can be analogous to the artistic process, an artistic endeavor in its own right.
Differentiation of adipose stem cells

The broad definition of a stem cell is a cell that has the ability to self-renew and differentiate into one or more specialized terminally differentiated cell types. It has become evident that stem cells persist in, and can be isolated from, many adult tissues. Adipose tissue has been shown to contain a population of cells that retain a high proliferation capacity in vitro and the ability to undergo extensive differentiation into multiple cell lineages. These cells are referred to as adipose stem cells and are biologically similar, although not identical, to mesenchymal stem cells derived from the bone marrow. Differentiation causes stem cells to adopt the phenotypic, biochemical, and functional properties of more terminally differentiated cells. This chapter will provide investigators with some background on stem cells derived from adipose tissue and then provide details on adipose stem cell multilineage differentiation along osteogenic, adipogenic, chondrogenic, and neurogenic lineages.
Lecithin-dependent Phytosterol Utilization by Larvae of Culex pipiens (Diptera: Culicidae)

Without sterol in synthetic dietary media Culex pipiens L. could not develop beyond the second instar. With cholesterol as the only dietary lipid, good development to the adult stage occurred, whereas with ergosterol or stigmasterol, development was no better than in the absence of sterol, and with all other phytosterols tested development was variously restricted. When the basic diet incorporated a lipid supplement containing the arachidonic acid needed for newly emerged adults to fly and survive, larval/pupal development and adult viability with ergosterol, stigmasterol, and most phytosterols were as good as with cholesterol. Besides arachidonic acid, the lipid supplement contained an antioxidant, ascorbyl palmitate, and synthetic dipalmitoyl lecithin as a dispersing agent; but with lecithin alone supplementing the basic diet, good development to the adult stage was facilitated with ergosterol, stigmasterol, and other phytosterols, although adults lacking arachidonic acid were not viable. On the basis of diets supplemented with lecithin, we concluded that ergosterol, stigmasterol, sitosterol, 24-methylenecholesterol, fucosterol, desmosterol, and perhaps 7-dehydrocholesterol could support growth and development as well, or almost so, as cholesterol. With cholestanol, development to the fourth instar was good, but nearly all individuals failed to metamorphose. With lathosterol or 22- trans -cholestadienol, development was markedly inferior compared with cholesterol and the well utilized phytosterols, and survival through metamorphosis was severely reduced. These results are discussed in relation to current views on the metabolism of sterols by phytophagous/omnivorous insects.
Evaluation of systematic shifts of the 88 Sr + single-ion optical frequency standard at the 10 − 17 level

An ion trap of the end-cap design was built recently at the National Research Council of Canada for improved control of the ${}^{88}$Sr${}^{+}$ single-ion optical frequency standard systematic shifts. The uncertainty on the micromotion-induced shifts is smaller by more than four orders of magnitude when compared to our previous trap system and reaches a fractional frequency uncertainty of $1\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}18}$. To obtain this low uncertainty level, the micromotion is minimized with trim electrodes and the trap is operated at a special frequency at which there is anticorrelation between the second-order Doppler and Stark shifts. This choice of operating frequency, determined by the differential scalar polarizability of the clock transition, yields a suppression by a factor of $\ensuremath{\approx}$28 in the combined micromotion shifts. Like many optical frequency standards, the dominant source of uncertainty in the new trap is the blackbody radiation shift. Its uncertainty has been reduced by an order of magnitude with a recent theoretical evaluation of the differential scalar polarizability of the clock transition. The fractional blackbody shift uncertainty, estimated using a model of the blackbody field at the ion, is $2.2\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}17}$. The otherwise dominant electric quadrupole shift is reduced to below the $3\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}19}$ level with a cancellation method based on the average frequency of several pairs of Zeeman components. This method also cancels the tensor Stark shift and simplifies the description of the frequency shifts that are quantization-axis dependent. This paper provides a detailed description of the ${}^{88}$Sr${}^{+}$ optical frequency standard uncertainty evaluation and the methods used to make the standard robust against changes in the trap environment. The total fractional frequency uncertainty of the ${}^{88}$Sr${}^{+}$ ion for our current system is estimated at $2.3\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}17}$. We also discuss the uncertainty evaluation of a recently reported measurement of the ${}^{88}$Sr${}^{+}$ $S$-$D$ clock transition made over a 2-month period by comparison with a maser referenced to the SI second. The frequency measured is $444\phantom{\rule{0.16em}{0ex}}779\phantom{\rule{0.16em}{0ex}}044\phantom{\rule{0.16em}{0ex}}095\phantom{\rule{0.16em}{0ex}}485.5(9)$ Hz, with an uncertainty limited by the evaluation of the maser frequency.
Mathematical representation of uncertainty

As widely done in the risk assessment community, a distinction is made between aleatory (random) and epistemic (subjective) uncertainty in the modeling and simulation process. The nature of epistemic uncertainty is discussed, including (1) occurrence in parameters contained in mathematical models of a system and its environment, (2) limited knowledge or understanding of a physical process or interactions of processes in a system, and (3) limited knowledge for the estimation of the likelihood of event scenarios of a system. To clarify the options available for representation of epistemic uncertainty, an overview is presented of a hierarchy of theories of uncertainty. Modern theories of uncertainty can represent much weaker statements of knowledge and more diverse types of uncertainty than traditional probability theory. A promising new theory, evidence (Dempster-Shafer) theory, is discussed and applied to a simple system given by an algebraic equation with two uncertain parameters. Multiple sources of information are provided for each parameter, but each source only provides an interval value for each parameter. The uncertainty in the system response is estimated using probability theory and evidence theory. The resultant solutions are compared with regard to their assessment of the likelihood that the system response exceeds a specified failure level. In this example, a traditional application of probability theory results in a significantly lower estimate of risk of failure as compared to evidence theory. Strengths and weaknesses of evidence theory are discussed, and several important open issues are identified that must be addressed before evidence theory can be used successfully in engineering applications. * Distinguished Member Technical Staff, Associate Fellow t Sandia is a multiprogram laboratory operated by Sandia Corporation, a Lockheed Martin Company, for the U. S. Department of Energy under contract No. DEAC04-94AL85000. This paper is declared a work of the U.S. Government and is not subject to copyright protection in the United States. Kari Sentz Systems Science and Industrial Engineering State University of New York-Binghamton Binghamton, New York
The α Rays

THE α rays from radium appear to start life without electric charge, and subsequently become charged owing to collisions with the gas molecules they strike in their path. It seems, therefore, worth while inquiring what their behaviour would be if they were liable to become discharged again at a later collision, and to go on repeating this cycle during the ionising portion of their path. Very possibly the particle is capable of losing more than one electron, in which case it would seem certain that it will have a greater charge at some portions of its path than at others. Looked at in this way the problem is a statistical one of considerable complexity, but my point of view will be sufficiently well illustrated by considering the average α particle to behave as if it had the following constitution. For a distance x of its path it possesses an electric charge e. This is succeeded by a distance x′, during which its electric charge is e′. This is followed by a distance x with charge e, then a distance, x′ with charge e′, and so on, repeating indefinitely. Let the particle have a mass m and initial velocity v0, then, confining our attention to a portion of the path so small that v0 is not appreciably diminished by the collisions which occur, it is easy to show that the quantity measured by the electrostatic deflection as mv02/e would really be mv02(x + x′)/ex + e′x′, whilst the quantity measured by the electromagnetic deflection as mv0/e would be mv0(x + x′)/ex + e′x′. Thus the measurements would give v0 correctly, but the quantity denoted by e/m would ex + e′x′/m(x + x′) be. It is evident that the apparent value of e/m would be independent of the pressure at which the measurements were made, since change of pressure changes both x and x′ in the same ratio.
Analytical and Computational Study of Adaptive Circulation Control Airfoils

The focus of the current study is to examine the use of adaptive circulation control on a natural laminar flow airfoil for controlling the lift coefficient of the low-drag range. In this effort, adaptive circulation control is achieved by blowing over a small mechanical flap that can be deflected up or down. Such a blown trailing-edge flap allows for control of the jet direction to be independent of the jet momentum coefficient. This study was performed in two stages. In the first study, a two-dimensional thin-airfoil thin-jet theory and accompanying computer program was developed. With this method, changes to the airfoil ideal lift coefficient were studied for various jet blowing rates and angles showing that the ideal lift coefficient could be adjusted by varying either the blowing rate or the flap angle. In the second stage, a hybrid computational study was conducted. This hybrid method involved the CFL3D Reynolds-averaged Navier Stokes code in conjunction with an integral boundary layer method from PROFOIL. The surface pressure distributions for the airfoil were determined using CFL3D. Using these pressure distributions, the boundary layer transition locations were calculated using PROFOIL. The transition-location data was then used to determine the lift-coefficient range in which extended laminar flow could be achieved for cases with and without blowing. The results of this study confirmed that, in addition to flap angle, blowing across the trailing edge flap can be used to adjust the range of lift coefficients at which extensive laminar flow can be achieved. The blown trailing-edge flap is shown to be more effective at altering the location of the low-drag range than a cruise flap with no blowing. In addition, the blown flap eliminates separation off the flap at high flap angles.
Do International Studies Students Have a Broader Global Awareness than Other College Students

ABSTRACTPurpose: Common knowledge seem to suggest that international studies (IS) programs are at the forefront of helping their students better understand the world beyond United States borders. The purpose of this study is to test the proposition that IS students have a greater global awareness than other college students. Method: Hanvey’s (1976) five dimensions of global perspective were operationalized into 45 specific questions. A questionnaire consisting of these questions and a few demographics were circulated among students of 10 universities in the United States. A statistical method of Differences-in-Differences was used to compare the global perspective of IS students with other college students. Results: Controlling for different initial levels of awareness between freshmen/sophomore of IS students and students of two control groups, the findings do not support the hypothesis that IS programs have enhanced the global awareness of their students. The findings suggest that increases in global aw...
Yin and yang attributes of gastroscope image in chronic gastritis

According to yin and yang theory of traditional Chinese medicine( TCM),yin and yang attributes of gastroscope image in chronic gastritis were explored in this study from aspects of gastric mucus image,gastric mucosa image,gastric motility image and gastric hyperplasia image. By identifying the yin and yang attributes of gastroscope image,endoscopic information can be provided for TCM diagnosis and treatment. As a result,microcosmic syndrome differentiation can be performed,which can lead to a more accurate treatment of syndrome differentiation by uniting with macrocosmic syndrome differentiation.
General process of specification establishment in chemical drugs

The general process of specifications establishment in chemical drugs was analyzed and elucidated herein by reading out the "Guidance on The Formalized Process of Setting Specification for Chemical Drugs".This article was aimed at further illustrating the study ideal,thus,quality control of drugs would be more specific.
Behavior of Aflatoxin M1 During Manufacture and Storage of Queso Blanco and Bakers' Cheese.

Queso Blanco and bakers's cheese were prepared from milk naturally contaminated with aflatoxin M1 (AFM1), and then were stored at 4°C and at -23 ± 6°C for 2 months. AFM1 was found in both curd and whey. There was a 2.84-fold increase of AFM1 in curd of Queso Blanco cheese over the amount present in milk from which the cheese was made. The AFM1 content of the cheese varied during refrigerated and frozen storage, but AFM1 was present near initial levels at the end of storage. Bakers' cheese was prepared with and without added rennet. More AFM1 was found in cheese and whey than in milk from which cheese was made. AFM1 tended to be concentrated in curd. Cheeses made without rennet had greater enrichment (4.24-fold increase over that found in milk) than those made with rennet (2.97-fold increase over that found in milk). The AFM1 content in both types of cheese was variable but toxin remained in cheese through 1 month of refrigerated and 2 months of frozen storage.
Diode-Pumped Solid-State Lasers for NASA Space Station Lidar Experiments

The remote identification of atomic and molecular species as well as particulates from a Space platform requires pulsed lasers for active LIDAR detection or CW lasers for passive heterodyne detection. The detection of aerosols and water vapor profiles is best accomplished using lasers which operate in the visible to near infrared. In spaceborne missions, they must be mechanically rigid to survive the launch, have a long operating lifetime, and most importantly have high operating efficiency. To meet these objectives NASA is actively considering solid state lasers which are pumped by semiconductor laser diode arrays.
Bow Hunter's Syndrome from a Tortuous V1 Segment Vertebral Artery Treated with Stent Placement.

Background Bow hunter's syndrome is a dynamic and reversible occlusion of the vertebral artery occurring after rotation or extension of the neck. The V3 segment is the most common site of compression, especially at the atlantoaxial joint. Surgical decompression with or without cervical fusion has been the mainstay of therapy. Endovascular intervention, such as placement of stents, is rarely performed. Methods We report a patient with bow hunter's syndrome from tortuosity of the V1 segment of the VA treated with a self-expanding biliary stent placement. Results The symptoms where completely resolved by this treatment. Conclusions Stent placement is a safe and effective option for V1 segment causes of Bow Hunter's syndrome, especially in absence of bony compression.
Normal Hadronic Decays of ψ and ψ

A phenomenological model for decays of $\ensuremath{\psi}$ and ${\ensuremath{\psi}}^{\ensuremath{'}}$ into normal hadronic modes is proposed. This model can explain the decay rate $\ensuremath{\Gamma}(\ensuremath{\psi}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\ensuremath{\pi}\ensuremath{\rho})$ as well as the puzzlingly large rate $\ensuremath{\Gamma}(\ensuremath{\psi}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\ensuremath{\phi}{\ensuremath{\pi}}^{+}{\ensuremath{\pi}}^{\ensuremath{-}})$ in comparison to $\ensuremath{\Gamma}(\ensuremath{\psi}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\ensuremath{\omega}{\ensuremath{\pi}}^{+}{\ensuremath{\pi}}^{\ensuremath{-}})$. It also predicts many other relations which can be easily tested experimentally.
Congregate Care Settings in the United States

Currently, congregate or group care is seen in the United States as being a less desirable form of taking care of children and adolescents who have experienced maltreatment in their biological families or who live in struggling families. Among many other reasons, congregate care, especially long-term living arrangements, often deprives children of having the opportunity to develop a nurturing relationship with an attachment figure and experience parental control and authority in the context of the intrinsic need for autonomy. Furthermore, congregate care is not seen as a substitute for a home environment, and it could cause physical and psychological harm or increase the likelihood of problem behaviors. However, congregate care arrangements have been part of the childcare landscape prior to the 1800s. Currently, congregate care includes approved group homes that provide 24 h care in small group settings of 7–12 children or approved institutions which provide 24 h care and/or treatment typically for 12 or more children. Throughout the history of congregate care in the United States, basic needs such as food, clothing, and shelter have not always been met adequately in these settings, and emotional and psychological needs have been met to a lesser degree.
Cancer-Related Fatigue in Cancer Survivorship

Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) significantly interferes with usual functioning because of the distressing sense of physical, emotional, and cognitive exhaustion. Assessment of CRF is important and should be performed during the initial cancer diagnosis, throughout cancer treatment, and after treatment using a fatigue scoring scale (mild-severe). The general approach to CRF management applies to cancer survivors at all fatigue levels and includes education, counseling, and other strategies. Nonpharmacologic interventions include psychosocial interventions, exercise, yoga, physically based therapy, dietary management, and sleep therapy. Pharmacologic interventions include psychostimulants. Antidepressants may also benefit when CRF is accompanied by depression.
The cost of carbon capture and storage for coal-fired power plants in China

Abstract This study takes a systematic approach to quantify variability and uncertainty in the cost of carbon capture and storage (CCS) for new pulverized coal-fired power plants in China under a common costing framework and examines the role of economic and policy strategies in facilitating CCS deployment. The CCS cost varies with key parameters including capacity factor, fixed charge factor, coal price, plant location, and CO 2 removal efficiency. Given the probability distribution assumptions for uncertain parameters, results from the probability analysis show that the addition of amine-based CCS for 90% CO 2 capture would increase the plant cost of electricity generation significantly by 58%–108% in comparison with the plant without CCS at 95-percent confidence and result in a CO 2 avoidance cost within the 95-percent confidence interval from $35/tonne to $67/tonne, which is much lower than in other countries. With the nominal assumptions made for the base case study, an emission tax policy to encourage CCS implementation for 90% CO 2 capture at the baseload coal-fired plants requires a CO 2 price of $41/tonne, while a CO 2 sale price of $24/tonne is needed for CO 2 -enhanced oil recovery operations to offset the added cost for CCS.
Architecture of an ultrasonic experimental platform for information transmission through solids

An ultrasonic signal is seldom used for information transmission because it attenuates, scatters, disperses and reverberates in the channel. In some environments, the ultrasonic signal is the only option for communication since radio frequency (RF) electromagnetic waves cannot propagate in the solid and metallic media. This paper presents the feasibility of using an RF ultrasonic signal as the energy source for communication through elastic solids. A testbed platform based on the Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), high speed data and signal converters, low noise amplifier, power amplifier, and transducers are assembled to conduct ultrasonic communication experiments. This paper focused on the frequency of 2.5 MHz signal. Amplitude Shift Keying (ASK) and Phase Shift Keying (PSK) are tested using the testbed platform. The objective is to design and examine a reliable system for the ultrasonic communication in solids having diverse geometrical configurations.
Epigenetic Epidemiology of Autism and Other Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Mammalian brain development continues postnatally, as neuronal circuits and pathways undergo maturational development in response to experiences in early life. Therefore, epigenetic mechanisms that act at the interface of genetic and environmental information are increasingly recognized for their essential roles in postnatal brain development, and they are thought to play an important role in learning and memory. Here we review some of the emerging examples of human genetic neurodevelopmental disorders with known epigenetic etiologies and use these examples to speculate on the potential epigenetic etiology of the more common forms of idiopathic autisms. Understanding the epigenetic and biochemical pathways disrupted by genetic disorders can help direct the field of epigenetic epidemiology in its search for evidence of environmentally altered pathways, including investigations of how environmental factors such as nutrition and toxin exposures may contribute to epigenetic information essential for the higher cognitive functions associated with language and social behavior.
Prioritizing Choice: Perceptions of Neighborhood Social Cohesion for Residents in Subsidized Housing

Many families living in poverty rely on housing subsidies. Housing subsidies restrict the housing stock and neighborhood choices for families living in poverty. Fortunately neighborhood social cohe...
Cutinolytic enzymes from Colletotrichum lagenarium

Abstract Colletotrichum lagenarium , the cause of cucurbit anthracnose, was grown on cucumber fruit cutin as the sole carbon source in order to determine whether this pathogen can produce cutinolytic enzymes. A cutinolytic enzyme (cutinase-a) was purified from the culture filtrate by precipitation with acetone followed by ion exchange and hydrophobic interaction chromatography. The purified enzyme was active on both cutin and p-nitrophenylbutyrate as substrates, had a molecular weight of 60000 and was acidic. The enzyme was inhibited by paraoxon and phenylboronic acid, inhibitors of serine esterase. Cutinolytic activity was also found associated with the basic protein fraction of the culture filtrate. This fraction was only active on cutin as a substrate and was not purified to homogeneity. Another cutinolytic activity was detected in the acervular spore matrix. This activity was acidic in charge and was active on both PNB and cutin as substrates. The results demonstrate that C. lagenarium can produce at least two types of cutinolytic enzymes when grown saprophytically on cutin, and at least one cutinolytic enzyme is produced in the matrix of the acervulus during sporulation.
Long-term outcome of phacoemulsification in raptors—A retrospective study (1999-2014)

Objective To determine long-term outcome of phacoemulsification in raptors at the University of Tennessee Veterinary Medical Center. Animals studied Seven nonreleasable diurnal raptors including, four bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus), two red-tailed hawks (Buteo jamaicensis), and one peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) that had undergone phacoemulsification. All birds showed behavioral changes attributable to visual deficits prior to surgery. Procedures All birds underwent phacoemulsification for cataracts. Four underwent bilateral phacoemulsification, and three had unilateral surgery. Due to a low sample size, statistics were not done. Results Six raptors (nine eyes) had long-term follow-up (median 75 months, range 28 to 105 months). Seven of these eyes (78%) were visual at last examination. Of those visual eyes, two developed mild to moderate posterior synechiae, four had mild to moderate capsular opacities, and one developed a lipid keratopathy. The remaining two eyes with long-term follow-up were from the same red-tailed hawk. Both eyes developed fibropupillary membranes that were blinding. One eye was pseudophakic, and the other was aphakic and also developed a rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. Another bald eagle was euthanized two months after surgery due to refractory glaucoma; one eye was pseudophakic. Conclusions Phacoemulsification is a viable treatment for captive raptors with cataracts. The most severe complications occurred relatively soon after surgery. Captive raptors appear to adapt well to aphakia.
Wulfstan's noble pagans

Given his frequently expressed hostility to pagans, Wulfstan's apparent commendation of their devotion at the beginning of the Sermo Lupi has long been a source of scholarly frustration. While the passage is without parallel in Wulfstan's Old English writings, it is mirrored closely by several other texts in Wulfstanian manuscripts, including a previously unedited tract titled De ueneratione sacerdotum. These tracts provide the best analogues for the passage in the Sermo Lupi, explaining how it came to be written and giving a glimpse into how Wulfstan composed the sermon.
Expression of Rho C, prolactin receptor (PRL-R), PDGF-α, and PPAR-γ is significantly higher in Barrett's Esophagus epithelium compared with esophageal squamous epithelium

861 The G-CSF receptor was recently identified on T lymphocytes. Recent studies have reported a possible direct modulatory effect of G-CSF on T lymphocytes. We compared the immunophenotype pattern and gene expression profile of T cells from G-CSF treated blood with untreated blood from normal healthy donors. Peripheral blood was collected from 19 blood stem cell donors, either during mobilization or, at the latest, 3 weeks after treatment with recombinant G-CSF at 10ug/kg/d for > 5 consecutive days. The control group was blood samples from 20 normal healthy volunteers. Different T cell subsets were analyzed by flow cytometry, employing CD3, CD4, CD8, CD45RO, CD45RA, CD28, CD25, CCR7, CD56 and CD94 in various combinations. Global gene expression in purified T cells was performed using Affymetrix HG-U133 Plus GeneChips. Pure (>95%) T cells were isolated by negative selection from peripheral blood mononuclear cells using a pan-T cell kit and from which total RNA was extracted. A total of 2,245 genes were found to be differentially regulated between the G-CSF treated donors and normal controls (NC), with 460 genes upregulated and 1,785 down-regulated in G-CSF treated donors. Of the 460 genes, 231 had over 3-fold elevated expression in donors, but only 65 out of the 1,785 genes were 3-fold downregulated. The upregulated genes included those encoding for molecules involved in adhesion, migration, apoptosis, transcriptional regulation, as well as chemokines, cytokines, growth factors and their receptors. The downregulated genes were mainly associated with signaling and transcriptional regulation. When the GCSF-treated donors were further divided into two groups, i.e. ‘during G-CSF mobilization’ (DG) versus ‘after G-CSF mobilization’ (AG), marked differences were revealed in both gene profiling and phenotype patterns. 59 genes were found to have elevated expression in DG donors by at least 3-fold compared to AG donors. Most of these were genes involved in immune and inflammatory responses, cell growth and maintenance, as well as growth factor and cytokine receptors. Hierarchical clustering revealed a clear separation between the G-CSF treated samples and NC. In addition, two separate clusters differentiated DG from AG. In immunophenotype profiling, AG donors had significantly higher CD45RO+CD3+CD4+ memory T cells than both DG donors and NC (p
Human Adenovirus 40 Removal in Sidestream Membrane Bioreactor

AbstractThis preliminary study investigates how the removal of human adenovirus in a membrane bioreactor (MBR) depends on the MBR configuration. Results from a sidestream MBR (ssMBR) are compared w...
P793 Risk factors for incident non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU) in men who have sex with women (MSW) attending an STD clinic

Background Incidence and risk factors for NGU remain poorly defined. We conducted a cohort study to estimate incidence and identify associated risk factors in MSW. Methods We enrolled cisgender male STD clinic patients age ≥16, who reported exclusively female partners. At enrollment and six monthly follow-up visits, men underwent a clinical exam, provided urethral swab and urine specimens, and completed a sexual behavior survey. We tested for chlamydia (CT) and Mycoplasma genitalium (MG) using Aptima. NGU was defined as urethral symptoms or visible discharge plus ≥5 polymorphonuclear leukocytes per high-power field on a Gram-stained slide. NGU following an NGU-negative visit was considered incident. We estimated incidence of NGU overall, pathogen-associated (MG or CT) and idiopathic NGU using Poisson regression for clustered outcomes. We performed relative risk binomial regression for clustered data to identify characteristics associated with incident NGU. Results From 08/2014-08/2018, 254 participants had ≥1 follow-up visit, contributing 100.6 person-years at risk during follow-up. Median age was 32 (range=17–71), 53% were white and 24% black. Eighty-four (33%) had NGU at enrollment. Forty-five men had 53 cases of incident NGU (incidence=0.53 per person-year (95% confidence interval [CI]=0.39–0.71)). Incidence of pathogen-associated and idiopathic NGU was 0.06 (95% CI 0.03–0.13) and 0.47 (95%CI = 0.34–0.63), respectively. After adjustment for age, condom use and new partners during follow-up, risk of incident NGU was higher among black men (adjusted RR (ARR)=2.2; 95%CI=1.1–4.4), those with a history of NGU before enrollment (ARR=3.1; 1.5–6.5) and more sex partners during follow-up (ARR=1.2 per partner; 1.0–1.5); risk was lower among men who used lubricant at last sex (ARR=0.44; 0.20–0.96). Conclusion Incidence of NGU was high, predominantly idiopathic, and associated with traditional socio-behavioral characteristics, but not age, condom use, or new partners. The lubricant-use association was unexpected and warrants further exploration. More precise daily diary data may yield additional insights. Disclosure No significant relationships.
Cellular stoichiometry of chemotaxis proteins in Sinorhizobium meliloti

Chemotaxis systems enable microbes to sense their immediate environment, moving toward beneficial stimuli and away from those that are harmful. In an effort to better understand the chemotaxis system of Sinorhizobium meliloti, a symbiont of the legume alfalfa, the cellular stoichiometries of all ten chemotaxis proteins in S. meliloti were determined. A combination of quantitative immunoblot and mass spectrometry revealed that the protein stoichiometries in S. meliloti varied greatly from those in Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis To compare protein ratios to other systems, values were normalized to the central kinase CheA. All S. meliloti chemotaxis proteins exhibited increased ratios to various degrees. The 10-fold higher molar ratio of adaptor proteins CheW1 and CheW2 to CheA might result in the formation of rings in the chemotaxis array that consist of only CheW instead of CheA and CheW in a 1:1 ratio. We hypothesize that the higher ratio of CheA to the main response regulator CheY2 is a consequence of the speed-variable motor in S. meliloti, instead of a switch-type motor. Similarly, proteins involved in signal termination are far more abundant in S. meliloti, which utilizes a phosphate sink mechanism based on CheA retrophosphorylation to inactivate the motor response regulator versus CheZ-catalyzed dephosphorylation as in E. coli and B. subtilis Finally, the abundance of CheB and CheR, which regulate chemoreceptor methylation, was increased compared to CheA, indicative of variations in the adaptation system of S. meliloti Collectively, these results mark significant differences in the composition of bacterial chemotaxis systems.IMPORTANCE The symbiotic soil bacterium Sinorhizobium meliloti contributes greatly to host-plant growth by fixing atmospheric nitrogen. The provision of nitrogen as ammonium by S. meliloti leads to increased biomass production of its legume host alfalfa and diminishes the use of environmentally harmful chemical fertilizers. To better understand the role of chemotaxis in host-microbe interaction, a comprehensive catalogue of the bacterial chemotaxis system is vital, including its composition, function, and regulation. The stoichiometry of chemotaxis proteins in S. meliloti has very few similarities to the systems in Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis In addition, total amounts of proteins are significantly lower. S. meliloti exhibits a chemotaxis system distinct from known models by incorporating new proteins as exemplified by the phosphate sink mechanism.
Left artrial decompression by left parasternal incision for pediatric venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: a report of 4 cases

Objective To introduce the clinical experience of 4 cases of left atrial decompression via minithoracotomy technique in pediatric application under venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation(VA-ECMO) in pediatric fulminant myocarditis treatment. Methods The clinical data of 4 patients with VA-ECMO support for fulminant myocarditis admitted in Zhengzhou Children′s Hospital and Bayi Children′s Hospital Affiliated to the Seventh Medical Center of PLA General Hospital from July 2017 to October 2018 were reviewed. Results A total of 4 patients with fulminant myocarditis supported by VA-ECMO received left ventricular decompression, and left atrial decompression was performed by left atrial intubation with a small incision near the left sternum.Left heart ultrasound showed that left heart function improved after decompression.One case with ventilator was still Ⅲ degree atrioventricular block after weaning, and installed permanent pacemaker postoperative 1 month.One case had more pleural drainage and improved after adjusting anticoagulation.One case died due to the termination of treatment by the guardian.A total of 3 cases survived, and the recent follow-up results were satisfactory. Conclusion Left artrial decompression of this minimally invasive technique can improve left ventricular function in children with fulminant myocarditis supported by VA-ECMO.It is safe, feasible with small trauma and bleeding controlled. Key words: Left artrial decompression by left parasternal incision; Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation; Fulminant myocarditis
Impacts of COVID-19 on Electronic Cigarette Purchasing, Use and Related Behaviors

Background: COVID-19 has caused health impacts and disruptions globally. Electronic cigarette (ECIG) users may face additional impacts. This study examined impacts of COVID-19 on ECIG users. Methods: Concept mapping, a mixed-methods approach, was used to identify COVID-19 impacts on adult ECIG users. ECIG users (n = 93) provided statements completing a prompt: "A specific way Coronavirus/COVID-19 has affected my vaping/e-cigarette use, my vaping/e-cigarette related purchasing, or other vaping/e-cigarette related behaviors or issues is…". Participants generated 85 unique statements, sorted statements into groups of similar content and rated each statement on how true they were. Multidimensional scaling and hierarchical cluster analysis identified thematic clusters. Mean cluster ratings were compared between sample subgroups. Results: Ten clusters were identified: Stocking up and Bulk Purchasing, Challenges in Obtaining ECIG Supplies, Alternative Purchasing Procedures, Increased ECIG use, Disruption of Routine and ECIG Use, Efforts to Decrease ECIG Use, Improving ECIG Skills, COVID-19 Health Concerns, Perceptions of ECIG Use and COVID-19, and COVID-19 Protection. More dependent ECIG users and dual users of ECIGs and cigarettes rated clusters higher than less dependent ECIG users and non-dual users. Conclusions: ECIG users may experience or perceive they face additional COVID-19 impacts, such as increased exposure, financial burdens, stress, and health risks.
Molecular Weight Dependence of Polymersome Membrane Elasticity and Stability

Vesicles prepared in water from a series of diblock copolymers and termed "polymersomes" are physically characterized. With increasing molecular weight $\bar{M}_n$, the hydrophobic core thickness $d$ for the self-assembled bilayers of polyethyleneoxide - polybutadiene (PEO-PBD) increases up to 20 $nm$ - considerably greater than any previously studied lipid system. The mechanical responses of these membranes, specifically, the area elastic modulus $K_a$ and maximal areal strain $\alpha_c$ are measured by micromanipulation. As expected for interface-dominated elasticity, $K_a$ ($\simeq$ 100 $pN/nm$) is found to be independent of $\bar{M}_n$. Related mean-field ideas also predict a limiting value for $\alpha_c$ which is universal and about 10-fold above that typical of lipids. Experiments indeed show $\alpha_c$ generally increases with $\bar{M}_n$, coming close to the theoretical limit before stress relaxation is opposed by what might be chain entanglements at the highest $\bar{M}_n$. The results highlight the interfacial limits of self-assemblies at the nano-scale.
Do Equity Markets Favor Credit Market News Over Options Market News

Credit default swap (CDS) and equity options markets often experience abnormal swings prior to the announcement of negative credit news. Option prices reveal information about such forthcoming adverse events at least as early as credit spreads, except for negative earnings announcements. Prior to negative credit news being announced, the equity market does not respond to abnormal movements in option prices unless that information has also manifested itself in credit spreads, perhaps because options are perceived as more likely to trade on unsubstantiated rumors than default swaps.