cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Outcomes of Highly Sensitized Patients Undergoing Simultaneous Liver and Kidney Transplantation: A Single-Center Experience With Desensitization.

Abstract Background Preformed donor-specific human leukocyte antigen antibodies (DSAs) in patients undergoing simultaneous liver and kidney transplantation (SLKT) are an independent risk factor for poorer patient and renal allograft survival. The outcomes of patients highly sensitized (HS) against HLA antigens undergoing SLKT and select HS SLKT recipients undergoing desensitization at a high-volume desensitization center were investigated. Methods Seventy-five patients undergoing SLKT at a high-volume desensitization center between January 1, 2001, and December 31, 2015, were retrospectively reviewed. HS patients were defined by panel-reactive antibody (PRA) >30% (n = 17 patients), 11 of whom received pre- or perioperative desensitization with high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) ± rituximab. Results HS patients had significantly higher class I and class II PRA (class I = 41.3% ± 40.0% vs 2.5% ± 6.3%; class II = 45.7% ± 36.4% vs 1.0% ± 2.9%; P P = .05), and more likely to have had a prior transplant ( P = .03). HS patients demonstrated greater susceptibility to renal cell-mediated rejection (CMR) (23.5% vs 5.2%, P = .02) compared to nonsensitized patients. Higher renal antibody-mediated rejection (ABMR) was also observed in HS patients, 11.8% vs 3.4%, but did not reach significance ( P = .18). Desensitization in select HS SLKT patients was well tolerated but did not improve patient and allograft survival or significantly curtail rejection. Conclusion HS SLKT recipients demonstrated increased allograft rejection, particularly CMR, but patient and graft survival were not impacted in the first year post-transplant. Select HS SLKT patients tolerated desensitization with high-dose IVIG ± rituximab and may have received additional immunoprotection against ABMR but survival was not affected.
Patient satisfaction in VA medical centers and private sector hospitals: a comparison.

Abstract For the first time, we have data that can validly compare the satisfaction level of inpatients in Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers and private sector hospitals. It shows the satisfaction levels to be very similar. Since the VA will soon be changing its survey, this has been a very short time window. It may never recur. In addition to the general finding, there are some interesting comparisons regarding specific questions. For example, satisfaction with VA physicians, who are salaried and assigned to patients, is just as high as satisfaction with private physicians who are paid by fee and selected by the patient. This would seem to be critical information in the debate over U.S. health care reform.
Local acceptance and heterogeneous externalities of biorefineries

Biofuels can potentially reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions from energy use and help address the climate change problem. However, the siting and operation of a biofuel production facility can impact the members of the host community both positively (e.g. local jobs and income) and negatively (e.g. pollution and noise). Such ambivalent and heterogeneous external impacts result in either local support or opposition to the facility, which in turn becomes a key factor affecting biorefinery location decisions, and subsequent success of biorefineries. While a number of prior studies have analyzed economic and environmental impacts of biofuels, systematic analysis of local acceptability of biofuel production facilities is lacking. Our study explores factors that influence community attitudes towards biofuel facilities. We assess the strength of acceptability or opposition by estimating the local community's willingness to pay (WTP) either to support or to oppose a proposed biorefinery. We posit that such WTP estimates provide a more comprehensive measure of local acceptability. Results also suggest that county level socio-economic characteristics significantly influence these attitudes and WTP.
Internet of Things in computer engineering curricula: Just do it!

The overwhelming interest in the Internet of Things (IoT) shown by the industry, academia, and hobbyists alike compel experts to declare that IoT could be the next disrupting technology since the Internet. This new paradigm has taken everyone in the computing field by storm, not because it is an unknown technology, but because of the vast opportunities that it promises to provide, and more importantly, the extent of social change that it is expected to cause. Since there is no consensus on the contents of an IoT curriculum or even an IoT course, we describe our experience in offering an introductory course in IoT at Western New England University.
Microfluidic synthesis of functional inorganic micro-/nanoparticles and applications in biomedical engineering

Engineered micro-/nanoparticles of various physicochemical properties play significant roles in biomedical engineering from biosensing, in vivo imaging, in vitro diagnosis, drug delivery to therapy...
Lost Cause-ism in American Southerners’ News Writing About the First Russo-Chechen War (1994–1996)

In this article, I analyze how writers for newspapers in the American South used a culturally salient story about the past—the Myth of the Lost Cause—to make sense of an event in the present—the First Russo-Chechen War (1994–1996). I take a Proppian approach, according to which a story’s plot is defined as a set of functions, or generalized acts that influence course of the story’s action. Stories that appear to be different thus can share the same plot, inasmuch as they are composed of the same functions. I argue that, to construct narratives about the First Russo-Chechen War, Southern news writers substituted concrete actions from the conflict in Chechnya into the familiar functions that make up the plot of the Lost Cause. I use a combination of discourse analysis and qualitative content analysis to show how those functions appear in five Southern news accounts of the First Russo-Chechen War.
Anforderungsprofil einer nachhaltigkeitsorientierten Rohstoffbewertung zur Unterstützung von Entscheidungsprozessen in Unternehmen

Die beiden Begriffe Rohstoff und Nachhaltigkeit werden im heutigen Sprachgebrauch sehr haufig verwendet und sind fur den weiteren Verlauf der hier vorliegenden Arbeit von zentraler Bedeutung. Es ist daher notwendig beide Begriffe zu konkretisieren und in einem Unternehmenskontext darzustellen. In diesem Zusammenhang gilt es auf Unternehmensebene rohstoff- und nachhaltigkeitsorientierte Bewertungsverfahren zu identifizieren.
Refractive error and axial length in a primate model of strabismus and congenital nystagmus.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the development of refractive error and axial length in a primate model of sensory strabismus and nystagmus. METHODS: Four macaque monkeys had alternating tarsorraphy beginning within 24 hours of birth. One eye was closed for 25 days, and when it opened, the second eye immediately was closed for the next 25 days. Cycloplegic refractions and axial lengths were determined prospectively for three animals for 1 year or more. These data were compared to those of three unsutured control macaques raised under otherwise similar conditions. RESULTS: Each experimental animal developed exotropia and nystagmus. The first occluded eyes were significantly more hypermetropic than the control eyes at 1 month of age (+7.25 D +/- 1.95 D versus +1.92 D +/- 1.27 D; P < 0.02) and remained significantly more hypermetropic throughout the study. The second occluded eyes were more hypermetropic than the control eyes at 1 month (+2.42 D +/- 2.13 D versus +1.92 D +/- 1.27 D; P = 0.20), but less hypermetropic than the first occluded eyes. The rate of emmetropization was slightly faster for the first occluded eyes than for the control eyes (-0.12 D/month compared to -0.03 D/month). The mean axial length measurements of the experimental and control eyes were the same at 1 month, and their rates of change over time were identical. CONCLUSIONS: Persistent hypermetropia was produced by a brief period of reverse neonatal eyelid closure in a model of congenital-like nystagmus. It is suggested that infantile lid closure, nystagmus, or amblyopia after neonatal visual disruption may be associated with a failure of normal emmetropization.
Bacterial Endotoxemia and Reproductive Effects in Ruminants

Endotoxemia in cattle and small ruminants induces a series of events that lead to a well-recognized clinical syndrome. The reproductive function can also be seriously affected, ranging from infertility to abortion. Mechanisms involved in infertility range from hormonal alterations, shortening of the estrous cycle length, and alteration of uterine tube motility. In pregnant animals, endotoxemia can have embryotoxic or abortifacient effects depending on the species involved and the timing of exposure.
Humans, Robots, Artificial Intelligence, and Autonomous Entities in Space

Humans and physical technologies have interacted intimately throughout all of human existence. Humans as such have never existed “without technology.” Indeed, humans become “human” and change the meaning of being human in large measure by interacting with each other and their environment through technologies. For much of human history, our technologies, though necessary tools for human activities, were largely or completely dumb – dependent on humans to function. Over time, we have also made smarter and smarter technologies, able to do more on their own, if properly designed, built, and maintained.
Brachytherapy and Hyperthermia: Biological Rationale

The purpose of this chapter is to survey the existing literature on effects of heat on cells and on animal tumors, specifically as these relate to clinical use of interstitial hyperthermia used in conjunction with brachytherapy. Biology remains biology, however, so that much of other research on hyperthermia and its interaction with ionizing irradiations remains applicable, even though the research was carried out for purposes not related to the topic of this book. If indeed this is the case (and it seems fairly obvious that it is), then why write a special review chapter? In part, the answer to this question is that there are aspects of hyperthermic biology that are of unique importance for the topic of this volume; in part also, because there is a body of literature that describes experiments that were performed for the specific purpose of exploring aspects of this combined modality. Finally, it seems that a book such as this has to make its formal bow to laboratory science.
Oxidative Damage During the Gastric Precancerous Process

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) may play a role in human carcinogenesis. Epidemiologic studies have indicated that infection with Helicobacter pylori increases the risk of gastric cancer. This chapter explores the possibility that such an association is the result of long-standing inflammation and the release of ROS and RNS by white blood cells.
Excision release of 5?hydroxycytosine oxidatively induced DNA base lesions from the lung genome by cat dander extract challenge stimulates allergic airway inflammation.

BACKGROUND Ragweed pollen extract (RWPE) induces TLR4-NFκB-CXCL-dependent recruitment of ROS-generating neutrophils to the airway and OGG1 DNA glycosylase-dependent excision of oxidatively induced 8-OH-Gua DNA base lesions from the airway epithelial cell genome. Administration of free 8-OH-Gua base stimulates RWPE-induced allergic lung inflammation. These studies suggest that stimulation of innate receptors and their adaptor by allergenic extracts initiates excision of a set of DNA base lesions that facilitate innate/allergic lung inflammation. OBJECTIVE To test the hypothesis that stimulation of a conserved innate receptor/adaptor pathway by allergenic extracts induces excision of a set of pro-inflammatory oxidatively induced DNA base lesions from the lung genome that stimulate allergic airway inflammation. METHODS Wild-type (WT), Tlr4KO, Tlr2KO, Myd88KO, and TrifKO mice were intranasally challenged once or repeatedly with cat dander extract (CDE), and innate or allergic inflammation and gene expression were quantified. We utilized GC-MS/MS to quantify a set of oxidatively induced DNA base lesions after challenge of naive mice with CDE. RESULTS A single CDE challenge stimulated innate neutrophil recruitment that was partially dependent on TLR4 and TLR2, and completely on Myd88, but not TRIF. A single CDE challenge stimulated MyD88-dependent excision of DNA base lesions 5-OH-Cyt, FapyAde, and FapyGua from the lung genome. A single challenge of naive WT mice with 5-OH-Cyt stimulated neutrophilic lung inflammation. Multiple CDE instillations stimulated MyD88-dependent allergic airway inflammation. Multiple administrations of 5-OH-Cyt with CDE stimulated allergic sensitization and allergic airway inflammation. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE We show for the first time that CDE challenge stimulates MyD88-dependent excision of DNA base lesions. Our data suggest that the resultant-free base(s) contribute to CDE-induced innate/allergic lung inflammation. We suggest that blocking the MyD88 pathway in the airways with specific inhibitors may be a novel targeted strategy of inhibiting amplification of innate and adaptive immune inflammation in allergic diseases by oxidatively induced DNA base lesions.
Herausforderungen und Potenziale beim Betrieb von stationären Magergasmotoren mit wasserstoffhaltigen Brenngasen

Gasmotoren konnen mit verschiedenen Brenngasen betrieben werden, wobei typischerweise Gasgemische verwendet werden, die sich in ihrer Zusammensetzung teilweise stark unterscheiden. Selbst bei dem haufig genutzten Erdgas variiert abhangig von der Herkunft die Zusammensetzung und damit die thermodynamischen Eigenschaften wie z.B. Heizwert oder Methanzahl. Noch deutlicher kann die Zusammensetzung des Brenngases bei Biogas schwanken, da dieses im Laufe des Jahres oft aus unterschiedlichen Ausgangsstoffen gewonnen wird. Gasmotoren mussen daher grundsatzlich mit unterschiedlicher bzw. schwankender Brennstoffqualitat zuverlassig betrieben werden konnen.
Ciliary and cytoskeletal functions of an ancient monooxygenase essential for bioactive amidated peptide synthesis.

Many secreted peptides used for cell–cell communication require conversion of a C-terminal glycine to an amide for bioactivity. This reaction is catalyzed only by the integral membrane protein peptidylglycine α-amidating monooxygenase (PAM). PAM has been highly conserved and is found throughout the metazoa; PAM-like sequences are also present in choanoflagellates, filastereans, unicellular and colonial chlorophyte green algae, dinoflagellates and haptophytes. Recent studies have revealed that in addition to playing a key role in peptidergic signaling, PAM also regulates ciliogenesis in vertebrates, planaria and chlorophyte algae, and is required for the stability of actin-based microvilli. Here we briefly introduce the basic principles involved in ciliogenesis, the sequential reactions catalyzed by PAM and the trafficking of PAM through the secretory and endocytic pathways. We then discuss the multi-faceted roles this enzyme plays in the formation and maintenance of cytoskeleton-based cellular protrusions and propose models for how PAM protein and amidating activity might contribute to ciliogenesis. Finally, we consider why some ciliated organisms lack PAM, and discuss the potential ramifications of ciliary localized PAM for the endocrine features commonly observed in patients with ciliopathies.
Abstract 112: Endogenous-Antigen-Specific T Cell Receptor Activation of CD4+ T Cells in the Heart is Required for Maladaptive Cardiac Remodeling Due to Pressure Overload

Cardiac pressure overload is associated with an adaptive immune response that drives maladaptive cardiac remodeling. CD4+ T cells are activated and expanded specifically in the heart-draining media...
Myocardial infarction in the practices of a group of private physicians—A comparison of patients with and without diabetes—II: The first two years, and a discussion of methodology

Abstract 1. 1. A 2-year follow-up of patients having acute myocardial infarction is presented. It is based upon all myocardial infarctions which occurred in the private practices of a group of internists. Diagnosis was made according to a predetermined set of detailed criteria. The status at the end of 2 years was known for all patients. 2. 2. The overall fatality rate was 37 per cent. 3. 3. The fatality rate was lower following a first infarction than following other than a first infarction. 4. 4. Certain complications occurring during the first 30 days following infarction were not associated with an increased 30-day to 2-year fatality if the infarction was the patient's first. If the patient had had a previous infarction, the occurrence of these complications was associated with a higher fatality of borderline significance. 5. 5. The development of any one, or more than one, of certain complications during the first 30 days following the infarction was associated with a greater 2-year fatality in those with diabetes than in those without diabetes. 6. 6. Among patients with diabetes mellitus: (a) The 30-day to 2-year fatality was significantly higher than among those without it. This was true both for those having a first infarction and those having other than a first infarction. (b) There was no apparent relationship between the 30-day to 2-year fatality and the insulin dose, the degree of control or the duration of the diabetes preceding the index infarction. 7. 7. Some of the issues which must be considered in the design and analysis of a prospective prognostic study are discussed.
The Association between Shirodkar Cerclage and Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes in Singleton Pregnancies.

Objective The aim of this study was to estimate if preterm premature rupture of membranes in women with cerclage is due to the cerclage itself or rather the underlying risk factors for preterm birth in this population. Study Design This was a retrospective cohort study of singleton pregnancies who underwent Shirodkar cerclage by a single maternal–fetal medicine practice between 2005 and 2019. The control group was an equal number of randomly selected women with a singleton gestation who had a prior preterm birth and were treated with 17-OH-progesterone but no cerclage. Patients with major uterine anomalies or fetal anomalies were excluded. The primary outcome was preterm premature rupture of membranes prior to 34 weeks. Chi-square and logistic regression were used. Results A total of 350 women with cerclage (154 [44%] history-indicated, 137 [39%] ultrasound-indicated, and 59 [17%] exam-indicated) and 350 controls were included. Preterm premature rupture of membranes prior to 34 weeks did not differ between the groups (8.9% in cerclage vs. 6.0% in controls, p = 0.149, adjusted odds ratio 0.62, 95% confidence interval: 0.24–1.64) nor between the different cerclage indications (9.1% of history-indicated, 7.3% of ultrasound-indicated, and 11.9% of exam-indicated, p = 0.582). This study had 80% power with an α error of 0.05 to detect an increase in preterm premature rupture of membranes prior to 34 weeks from 6.0% in the control group to 12.0% in the cerclage group. Conclusion Cerclage does not increase the risk of preterm premature rupture of membranes prior to 34 weeks compared with other women at increased risk of preterm birth. The observed association between cerclage and preterm premature rupture of membranes is likely due to underlying risk factors and not the cerclage itself. The risk of preterm premature rupture of membranes prior to 34 weeks in women with cerclage is 10% or less and does not appear to differ based on cerclage indication. Key Points
A case study of short-term exposure to hybrid learning

In this study, we: 1) investigated whether short-term use of online/off-campus learning modules would help instructors and students engage in teaching and learning if class schedules were abruptly switched to online; 2) suggested design improvements for short-term hybrid intervention. We assumed that the supportive features of hybrid learning would benefit students with low motivation and negative feelings prior to short-term online intervention. We used a mixed-methods approach, gathering data from two typical on-campus undergraduate classes. The results show that student emotions significantly differed before and after the short-term online intervention. These findings aligned with comments made by the students. The instructors reported positive effects of the online pedagogy due to the affordances of network technologies. Participant reflections suggested four design improvements: clear goals, cohesive alignment, clear guidance and feedback, and technologies with which students are familiar.
Experimental studies on the effects of sheet resistance and wettability of catalyst layer on electro-catalytic activities for oxygen evolution reaction in proton exchange membrane electrolysis cells

Abstract As the most important part of electrochemical reaction in proton exchange membrane electrolysis cells (PEMECs) for water splitting, oxygen evolution reaction (OER) occurs at the anode catalyst layer (CL). The distribution of the OER site is affected by many factors, such as properties of CL, operation parameters, procedures, etc. To study the effects of properties of CLs on the distribution of OER site on the CL, and consequently affect the performance of PEMECs, CLs with different sheet resistances are tested under different operation conditions. The phenomena of OER on CLs are captured by a high-speed and micro-scale visualization system in-situ and analysed coupled with electrochemical results. The results show that both sheet resistance and wettability of CLs have significant impact on the distribution of the OER site, which can help optimize the design of membrane electrode assembly and improve the operating parameters for electrochemical devices.
Predicting Resting Oral Commissure Tone Outcomes Following Masseter Nerve Transfer in Facial Reanimation

Objective: To quantify the degree of oral commissure resting tone improvement in patients undergoing masseter to facial nerve transfer. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was completed in a tertiary academic medical practice. Consecutive cases of masseter nerve transfer patients within a patient database were evaluated from 6/2012 to 9/2017. Inclusion criteria were patients >18 years of age, with complete unilateral paralysis, receiving a masseter to facial nerve transfer, with at least 12 months of recovery, and possessing complete pre- and postoperative data. Patients were excluded if a simultaneous adjunctive procedure was performed so that tone could not be attributed to masseter transfer alone. The main outcome measure was the facial asymmetry index (FAI): the measured difference in distance between the medial canthus and oral commissure of the healthy and paralyzed sides. Results: Twenty-nine patients met inclusion and exclusion criteria and were further analyzed for this study. The oral commissure symmetry improved from 4.7 ± 2.8 mm preoperatively to 2.2 ± 2.3 mm postoperatively. In multivariate analysis, the preoperative FAI was the only significant predictive factor for improvement in commissure symmetry at rest (r = 0.589). This suggests that for each 1.0 mm of worse preoperatively oral commissure asymmetry, the improvement postoperatively was 0.6 mm. Age, gender, body mass index, side of paralysis, duration of paralysis, and recipient branch of facial nerve were not significant predictors in a multivariate analysis. Conclusion: Masseter to facial nerve transfer yields an estimated 60% correction in the oral commissure asymmetry. This estimation may be helpful in determining if adjunctive procedures should be utilized.
Optimizing Energy Savings for a Fleet of Commercial Autonomous Trucks

In the era of Connected and Autonomous Vehicles, platooning has the potential to increase roadway capacity and reduce energy consumption. However, as vehicles try to form platoons they may also expend extra energy. Also, depending on its position within a platoon, the energy savings of each vehicle can be different. Thus, optimizing and quantifying the savings that may be gained from platooning is challenging. In this paper, we develop a simulation-optimization framework to tackle this challenge of quantifying energy savings from platooning. Our optimization model determines vehicle-to-platoon assignments given the current location, speed, and destination of all the vehicles and platoons on the freeway. The simulation model takes these platooning decisions from the optimization model and implements them. Vissim is used to simulate the actions taken by all the vehicles and platoons and capture the energy expended by each vehicle over its entire trip duration. To quantify the energy savings, the system is simulated with and without platooning. That is, the optimization model is turned off when assessing the performance of the system without platooning. In addition to the simulation-optimization framework, an accurate energy consumption model is developed in this paper, which is inspired by the work of Tadakuma and colleagues. The energy consumption model utilizes a hybrid prediction formula for aerodynamic drag reduction in multi-vehicle formations unifying both physical mechanisms and existing empirical study data. Our results show that a system wide savings of about 3% can be realized over 160 kilometers when platoons are formed strategically.
LTE Interference Effects on Radar Performance

To facilitate the increased demand on the radio frequency spectrum, the federal communications commission (FCC) allows spectrum sharing between 4G long term evolution (LTE) communications and radar. A cognitive radar that employs metacognition and many dynamic spectrum access (DSA) techniques to successfully share the spectrum has been developed. This paper suggests metrics to be used to characterize these techniques in terms of mutual interference with the LTE communications. In particular, a Block Collison rate (BCR) metric is proposed to quantitatively analyze the effect of the radar on LTE communications from an outside observer’s perspective.
Video-Based, Patient-Focused Opioid Education in the Perioperative Period Increases Self-Perceived Opioid-Related Knowledge: A Pilot Study.

Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate whether a video-based, patient-focused opioid education tool delivered in the perioperative period would decrease acute and chronic post-operative opioid prescription dispensations and increase self-rated knowledge about opioids. Methods We enrolled 110 patients with no reported opioid use in the previous 30 days, undergoing ambulatory surgery for breast, orthopedic, gynecologic, or other outpatient procedures for which opioids would be prescribed. Patients were randomized to receive either post-operative opioid education by the surgical team (control arm) or pre-operative education via a novel 5-minute video plus post-operative education by the surgical team (intervention arm). All patients received follow-up phone calls on post-operative day (POD) 7 to assess self-rated knowledge of opioids on a scale of 1 to 10, 10 being most informed, and self-reported opioid use (primary outcome). Arkansas Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (AR PDMP) data were obtained to assess opioid dispensations at POD 90-150 days. Results Seventy-seven percent of participants completed POD7 survey. Participants in the intervention arm rated their knowledge of opioids after surgery significantly higher than those in the control arm (p=0.013). Data from the AR PDMP reveal trends (non-significant) that show increased use of opioids in the control group when compared to the video intervention group at POD 30 (88.7% vs 76%) and POD 90-150 (22.6% vs 10%). Conclusion Video-based, patient-focused opioid education can be effectively implemented in a large university hospital during the perioperative period and is effective for increasing a patient's perception of opioid-related knowledge. A fully powered, randomized control trial is needed to further explore observed trends and determine if this novel tool can decrease chronic post-operative opioid dispensations.
The Fructose 6-Phosphate Site of Phosphofructokinase I. TAUTOMERIC AND ANOMERIC SPECIFICITY

Abstract The phosphoryl acceptor substrate of phosphofructokinase (EC 2.7.1.11), namely d-fructose-6-P, can exist in four forms in solution due to facile ring-chain tautomerization, anomerization, and hydration. These forms include the cyclic α- and β-furanose anomers and the acyclic keto and hydrated keto forms. In order to establish the tautomeric and anomeric specificity of phosphofructokinase (from rabbit muscle), several structurally locked, isosteric analogues of the four forms of d-fructose-6-P were tested kinetically for enzymatic activity. 2,5-Anhydro-d-mannitol-1-P (structurally identical with 2,5-anhydro-d-mannitol-6-P) and 2,5-anhydro-d-glucitol-6-P were synthesized and characterized. The former, a novel analogue of β-d-fructofuranose-6-P, was found to be an alternate substrate with kinetic constants closer to the natural substrate than any compound yet reported (Km = 0.41 mm and a Vmax relative to fructose-6-P = 87%). The latter, an analogue of α-d-fructofuranose-6-P, was found to be an effective competitive inhibitor of phosphofructokinase (Ki = 0.34 mm). d-Xylulose-5-P, d-mannitol-1-P (identical with d-mannitol-6-P), d-glucitol-6-P, and dihydroxyacetone, good analogues of the acyclic keto form of d-fructose-6-P and its hydrate, were inactive as inhibitors or alternate substrates. These findings indicate that, in binding, the fructose-6-P site has a tautomeric specificity for the cyclic furanose forms of its substrate, whereas in phosphorylation, it has a more restrictive anomeric specificity, accepting only β-d-fructofuranose-6-P. It seems that phosphofructokinase has evolved so as to phosphorylate the form of its substrate most abundant in solution. It is proposed that this enzyme be more accurately renamed ATP:β-d-fructofuranose 6-phosphate 1-phosphotransferase.
Parametric search and locating supply centers in trees

Linear-time and -space algorithms are presented for solving three versions of the p-center problem in a tree. The techniques are an application of parametric search.
Automatic Generation of Morphological Set Recognition Algorithms

1 Introduction.- 1.1 Problem Definition and Characterization.- 1.2 Mathematical Morphology.- 1.3 Related Work.- 1.4 Goals and Objectives.- 1.5 Organization of the Book.- 2 Review of Mathematical Morphology.- 2.1 Types of Image Data.- 2.2 Images as Sets in Space.- 2.3 Operation Classes and Properties.- 2.4 Criteria.- 2.5 Set Operations.- 2.6 Positional Masking and Thresholding Operations.- 2.7 Translation-Based Morphology Operations.- 2.8 Structuring Element Decomposition.- 2.9 Common Structuring Elements.- 2.10 Erosions and Dilations.- 2.11 Openings and Closings.- 2.12 Residues.- 2.13 Band Operations.- 2.14 Particle and Hole Operations.- 2.15 Grey Level Operations.- 2.16 Summary of Problem Domain.- 3 Theory of Automatic Set Recognition.- 3.1 Basic Terminology.- 3.2 Example Problems.- 3.3 Formal Description of Problems.- 3.4 Algorithms as Graphs.- 3.5 The Algorithm Development Process.- 3.6 Search Strategies and Completeness.- 4 REM System Implementation.- 4.1 Representation of Algorithms.- 4.1.1 Machine Level-C4PL Language.- 4.1.2 Lisp Executable Level-MM Language.- 4.1.3 Algebraic Level-IA Language.- 4.1.4 Target Level-IC Language.- 4.1.5 Operation Database.- 4.1.6 Algorithm Representation Summary.- 4.2 Overview of System Design.- 4.2.1 Program Components.- 4.2.2 Data Structures.- 4.2.3 Activity.- 4.3 Search Management.- 4.4 Problem Solving.- 4.4.1 Subproblem Instantiation.- 4.4.2 Subproblem Evaluation.- 4.4.3 Operator Testing and Proposal.- 4.4.4 Data Collection.- 4.4.5 Data Analysis and Solution Generation.- 4.4.6 Selection and Dispatching of Solutions.- 4.5 System Output.- 5 Results.- 5.1 Summary of System Capabilities.- 5.2 Examples of Problems Solved by REM.- 5.3 Example Program Run.- 6 Conclusion.- 6.1 Primary Accomplishments.- 6.2 Summary and Discussion.- 6.3 Future Directions.- A Partial List of Example Problems Solved by REM.- B Algebraic Definitions of IC Band Operations.- C Terminal Output for Example Problem 'TCODSK_RT'.- D Band Operators Defined in the IC Target Language.- E Selected Bibliography.
Applying Disparate Impact Theory to Subjective Employee Selection Procedures

" 126 The Griggs Court carefully reviewed the statutory language and legislative history to clarify legislative intent regarding tests. 127 The Court narrowly interpreted the statute's "professionally developed ability test" language, which permits discrimination based on tests. 128 Writing for the 8-0 majority, Chief Justice Burger found that Congress intended to limit the test exception to tests that are job-related. 129 To support that view, the opinion cited a Senate memo stating that Title VII "expressly protects the employer's right to insist that any prospective applicant, Negro or white, must meet the applicable job qualifications."' 13° The Court found additional support for its interpretation of the statute's test language in the EEOC Guidelines. The Guidelines required that tests fairly measure "the knowledge or skills required by the particular job or class of jobs which the applicant seeks."' 131 Because the 1964 Act created the EEOC and authorized it to issue regulations, 132 the Court interpreted the guidelines as expressing the will of Congress. 133 Underlying the Court's ruling in Griggs was the resolution of a "question of first impression... concerning the meaning of Title VII"-
Amine inversion in proteins. A 13C-NMR study of proton exchange and nitrogen inversion rates in...

Abstract Exchange rates were calculated as a function of pH from line widths of methylamine resonances in 13 C-NMR spectra of N ϵ , N ϵ , N α , N α -[ 13 C]tetramethyllysine (TML) and N ϵ , N ϵ , N α , N α -tetramethyllysine methyl ester (TMLME). The pH dependence of the dimethyl α-amine exchange rate could be adequately described by assuming base-catalyzed chemical exchange between two diastereotopic methyl populations related by nitrogen inversion. Deprotonation of the α-amine was assumed to occur by proton transfer to (1) OH − , (2) water, (3) a deprotonated amine or (4) RCO 2 − . Microscopic rate constants characterizing each of these transfer processes ( k 1 , k 2 , k 3 and k 4 , respectively) were determined by fitting the rates calculated from line width analysis to a steady-state kinetic model. Using this procedure it was determined that for both TML and TMLME k 2 =1–10 M −1 s −1 , k 3 =10 6 M −1 s −1 and k i , the rate constant for nitrogen inversion was about 10 8 –10 9 s −1 . Upper limits of 10 12 and 10 3 M −1 s −1 could be determined for k 1 and k 4 , respectively. A similar kinetic analysis was used to explain pH-dependent line-broadening effects observed for the N-terminal dimethylalanyl resonance in 13 C-NMR spectra of concanavalin A, reductively methylated using 90% [ 13 C]formaldehyde. From exchange data below pH 4 it could be determined that amine inversion was limited by the proton transfer rate to the solvent, with a rate constant estimated at 20 M −1 s −1 . Above pH 4, exchange was limited by proton transfer to other titrating groups in the protein structure. Based upon their proximity, the carboxylate side chains of Asp-2 and Asp-218 appear to be likely candidates. The apparent first-order microscopic rate constant characterizing proton transfer to these groups was estimated to be about 1 × 10 4 s −1 . Rate constants characterizing nitrogen inversion ( k i ), proton transfer to OH − ( k 1 ) and proton transfer to the solvent ( k 2 ) were estimated to be of the same order of magnitude as those determined for the model compounds. On the basis of our results, it is proposed that chemical exchange processes associated with base-catalyzed nitrogen inversion may contribute to 15 N or 13 C spin-lattice relaxation times in reduclively methylated peptides or proteins.
Test methodology for Motorola's high performance e500 core based on PowerPC instruction set architecture

This paper presents the DFT techniques used in Motorola's high performance e500 core, which implements the PowerPC "Book E" architecture and is designed to run at 600 MHz to 1 GHz. Highlights of the DFT features are at-speed logic built-in self-test (LBIST) for delay fault detection, very high test coverage for scan based at-speed deterministic delay-fault test patterns, 100% BIST for embedded memory arrays and 99.2 % stuck-at fault test coverage for deterministic scan test patterns. A salient design feature is the isolation ring that facilitates testing of the core when it is integrated in an SoC or host processor.
System concepts and design examples for optical communication with planetary spacecraft

Systems concepts for optical communication with future deep-space (planetary) spacecraft are described. These include not only the optical transceiver package aboard the distant spacecraft, but the earth-vicinity optical-communications receiving station as well. Both ground-based, and earth-orbiting receivers are considered. Design examples for a number of proposed or potential deep-space missions are then presented. These include an orbital mission to Saturn, a Lander and Rover mission to Mars, and an astronomical mission to a distance of 1000 astronomical units.
Effects of precursor heating on radiative and chemically reacting viscous flow around a Jovian entry body

The influence of change in the precursor region flow properties on the entire shock layer flow phenomena around a Jovian entry body was investigated. The flow in the shock layer was assumed to be steady, axisymmetric, and viscous. Both the chemical equilibrium and the nonequilibrium composition of the shock layer gas were considered. The effects of transitional range behavior were included in the analysis of high altitude entry conditions. Realistic thermophysical and radiation models were used, and results were obtained by employing the implicit finite difference technique in the shock layer and an iterative procedure for the entire shock layer precursor zone. Results obtained for a 45 degree angle hyperboloid blunt body entering Jupiter's atmosphere at zero angle of attack indicates that preheating the gas significantly increases the static pressure and temperature ahead of the shock for entry velocities exceeding 36 km/sec. The nonequilibrium radiative heating rate to the body is found to be significantly higher than the corresponding equilibrium heating. The precursor heating generally increases the radiative and convective heating of a body. That increase is slightly higher for the nonequilibrium conditions.
Socioeconomic status, infant feeding practices and early childhood obesity†

SummaryWhat is already known about this subject Children from low socioeconomic households are at greater risk of obesity. Children predominantly breastfed have a reduced risk of early childhood obesity. Yet, it is not known how feeding patterns mediate the relationship between social class and obesity. What this study adds Based on a nationally representative, longitudinal study of early childhood, this study finds that healthy infant feeding practices, including predominant breastfeeding, mediates the negative association between social class and obesity at 24 months. Background Children from low socioeconomic households are at greater risk of obesity. As breastfeeding can protect against child obesity, disadvantaged infants are less likely to breastfeed relative to more advantaged children. Whether infant feeding patterns, as well as other maternal characteristics mediate the association between social class and obesity has not been established in available research. Objectives Examine the impact of infant feeding practices on child obesity and identify the mechanisms that link socioeconomic status (SES) with child obesity. Methods Based on a nationally representative longitudinal survey (ECLS-B) of early childhood (n = 8030), we examine how breastfeeding practices, the early introduction of solid foods and putting an infant to bed with a bottle mediate the relationship between social class and early childhood obesity relative to the mediating influence of other maternal characteristics (BMI, age at birth, smoking, depression and daycare use). Results Infants predominantly fed formula for the first 6 months were about 2.5 times more likely to be obese at 24 months of age relative to infants predominantly fed breast milk. The early introduction of solid foods (< 4 months) and putting the child to bed with a bottle also increased the likelihood of obesity. Unhealthy infant feeding practices were the primary mechanism mediating the relationship between SES and early childhood obesity. Results are consistent across measures of child obesity although the effect size of infant feeding practices varies. Conclusions The encouragement and support of breastfeeding and other healthy feeding practices are especially important for low socioeconomic children who are at increased risk of early childhood obesity. Targeting socioeconomically disadvantaged mothers for breastfeeding support and for infant-led feeding strategies may reduce the negative association between SES and child obesity. The implications are discussed in terms of policy and practice.
THE EFFECT OF TEMPERATURE ON THE OPTICAL PROPERTIES OF KAOLINITE1

Euhedral crystals of kaolinite sere heated to various temperatures, draw trials made at frequent intervals, and the effect of temperature was studied microscopically. The results obtained indicate three classes of kaolinite: (1) the natural kaolinite, (2) the uniaxial form produced at 625°C, the metanacrite of Rinne, and (3) the change of the metanacrite into what is probably mullite and glass at 1450°C.
Fifteen years after DSC and WLSS2 what parallel computations I do today: invited lecture at PASCO 2010

A second wave of parallel and distributed computing research is rolling in. Today's multicore/multiprocessor computers facilitate everyone's parallel execution. In the mid 1990s, manufactures of expensive main-frame parallel computers faltered and computer science focused on the Internet and the computing grid. After a ten year hiatus, the Parallel Symbolic Computation Conference (PASCO) is awakening with new vigor.I shall look back on the highlights of my own research on theoretical and practical aspects of parallel and distributed symbolic computation, and forward to what is to come by example of several current projects. An important technique in symbolic computation is the evaluation/interpolation paradigm, and multivariate sparse polynomial parallel interpolation constitutes a keystone operation, for which we present a new algorithm. Several embarrassingly parallel searches for special polynomials and exact sum-of-squares certificates have exposed issues in even today's multiprocessor architectures. Solutions are in both software and hardware. Finally, we propose the paradigm of interactive symbolic supercomputing, a symbolic computation environment analog of the STAR-P Matlab platform.
Characterization of Transiently and Constitutively Expressed Progesterone Receptors: Evidence for Two Functional States

Activated steroid receptors induce chromatin remodeling events in the promoters of some target genes. We previously reported that transiently expressed progesterone receptor (PR) cannot activate mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV) promoter when it adopts the form of ordered chromatin. However, when expressed continuously, the PR acquires this ability. In this study we explored whether this gain of function occurs through alterations in nucleoprotein structure at the MMTV promoter or through changes in receptor status. We observed no major structural differences at the MMTV promoter in the presence of constitutively expressed PR and found its mechanism of activation to be very similar to that of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR). However, a systematic comparison of the functional behavior of the transiently and constitutively expressed PR elucidated significant differences. The transiently expressed PR is activated in the absence of ligand by cAMP and by components in FBS and has significantly increased sensit...
Would Helping Ethical Professionals Get Professional Societies Into Trouble

Various possible troubles that may befall engineering societies defending the ethical practice of engineering are outlined. These include lawsuits by irate employers and the loss of support for the societies. It is pointed out that properly conducted activities in this realm are not only very well justified but are highly unlikely to result in damage to the societies involved. Attacks made in the spirit of vengeance are far more likely to damage the attacker than the intended victim. Reference is made to the experience of other types of organizations that have remained unscathed, even though, at first glance, they appear to be highly vulnerable to legal harassment.
Photon-photon interactions in cavity electromagnetically induced transparency

Dissipation-free photon-photon interaction at the single-photon level is studied in the context of cavity electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT). For a single multilevel atom exhibiting EIT in the strong cavity-coupling regime, the anharmonicity of the atom-cavity system has an upper bound determined by single atom-photon coupling strength. A photon blockade effect is inferred to occur for both single- and multiatom cases from the behavior of transition rates between dressed states of the system. Numerical calculations of the second-order coherence function indicate that photon antibunching in both single- and two-atom cases are strong and comparable.
A New and Simple Questionnaire to Identify People at Increased Risk for Undiagnosed Diabetes

OBJECTIVE To develop a simple questionnaire to prospectively identify individuals at increased risk for undiagnosed diabetes. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS People with newly diagnosed diabetes ( n = 164) identified in the Second National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and those with neither newly diagnosed diabetes nor a history of physician-diagnosed diabetes ( n = 3,220) were studied. Major historical risk factors for undiagnosed non-insulin-dependent diabetes were defined, and classification trees were developed to identify people at higher risk for previously undiagnosed diabetes. The sensitivity, specificity, and predictive value of the classification trees were described and compared with those of an existing questionnaire. RESULTS The selected classification tree incorporated age, sex, history of delivery of a macrosomic infant, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and family history of diabetes. In a representative sample of the U.S. population, the sensitivity of the tree was 79%, the specificity was 65%, and the predictive value positive was 10%. CONCLUSIONS This classification tree performed significantly better than an existing questionnaire and should serve as a simple, noninvasive, and potentially cost-effective tool for diagnosing diabetes in the U.S.
Democracy, Al Qaeda, and the Causes of Terrorism: A Strategic Analysis of U.S. Policy

How will the strategy of spreading democracy affect the threat of terrorism from Al Qaeda and likeminded Islamic extremist groups? This article analyzes how spreading democracy would impact four different sets of underlying motivations that lead to this kind of terrorism. It will show that the widespread belief in the power of democracy is likely misplaced because democracy will be unlikely to change perceptions of occupation, will itself threaten Islamic identity and culture, will be unlikely to mitigate economic grievances, and will be unlikely to provide a more legitimate government than one based on religious law.