cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Apolipoprotein A1 and C-terminal fragment of α-1 antichymotrypsin are candidate plasma biomarkers associated with acute renal allograft rejection

The diagnosis of acute rejection is suspected by clinical presentation and confirmed by biopsy. Serum creatinine levels increase during allograft dysfunction, but this measure is neither sensitive nor specific for acute rejection (1, 2). The gold standard for diagnosing rejection is needle biopsy, which is invasive, painful, and as sociated with patient morbidity (1–4). It would be advantageous to develop a noninvasive test that could detect rejection, improve transplant outcomes, and reduce the cost of care. The use of human plasma for biomarker discovery provides a means to monitor disease states in a relatively noninvasive manner (5, 6). Plasma comes in contact with tissues which are apt to release protein components that reflect the disease-altered state of the tissue (6). The SELDI ProteinChip System (Bio-Rad, Hercules, CA) uses solid phase extraction of proteins and peptides from biological mixtures followed by detection using surface-enhanced laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry. ProteinChip arrays use a variety of chromatographic and biological surfaces to bind subsets of proteins from complex biological samples (7). The bound proteins are used to generate protein profiles used for biomarker discovery (7, 8). Urine protein profiles from renal allograft rejection patients have identified potential biomarker candidates and generated valuable insight into the biology of graft injury (9–15). The utilization of plasma for finding candidate bio-markers of renal allograft rejection holds promise as a biological fluid that can provide informative proteomic signatures of renal allograft rejection (16). This study analyzes the plasma proteomes of renal transplant patients by SELDI. Twenty-two proteins/peptides had significant differences when comparing plasma during rejection with postrejection. The combination of two candidate proteins had a high discriminatory value for detecting rejection. Two of the 22 candidates were identified and one, apolipoprotein A1 (Apo A1), was validated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in the original and a larger independent cohort.
Cognitive control in altruism and self-control: A social cognitive neuroscience perspective

The primrose path and prisoner’s dilemma paradigms may require cognitive (executive) control: The active maintenance of context representations in lateral prefrontal cortex to provide top-down support for specific behaviors in the face of short delays or stronger response tendencies. This perspective suggests further tests of whether altruism is a type of self-control, including brain imaging, induced affect, and dual-task stud-
Tomographic needles and catheters for optical imaging of prostatic cancer

Early detection of prostatic cancer currently depends on Prostate Serum Antigen or TransRectal UltraSound. Unfortunately, these techniques are not always reliable indicators for early small lesions still localized within the prostate. This paper presents a feasibility study on the use of `tomographic needles and catheters' for optical imaging of early lesions. Three needles are inserted perianeally into the prostate or two catheters are inserted into the rectal and urethral passages. Each contains a set of optical fibers which terminate at evenly spaced positions along the needle. Each termination serves as either a source or collector for light transmission as each fiber is sequentially illuminated. Application of a tomographic algorithm based on diffuse light transmission between each source/collector pair yields a fuzzy but spectrally informative image of the prostate. This paper addresses the issue of feasibility by asking whether such a technique can distinguish a large zone of slightly alter optical properties (essentially a region of normal tissue) from a small zone of strongly altered optical properties (a tumor). The paper simulates both steady-state and 3-GHz frequency-domain optical measurements.
A Durkheimian analysis of the event at Masada

Josephus’ narrative of Masada, confirmed by archeological findings, included an account of two speeches by Eleazar to the beseiged urging mass suicide rather than surrender. Application of Durkheim's etiological theory to the event suggested strongly that the speaker's arguments and appeals directed to shared social and religious beliefs produced a state of extreme anomie. This condition, combined with altruistic predispositions and pressure of group resolve, accounted in large part for the effectiveness of the speeches.
Accuracy of fetal echocardiography: a cardiac segment-specific analysis.

Objective In patients with congenital heart disease, comprehensive, segment-specific analysis of cardiac anatomy has become ‘the standard of care’, largely as a result of improvements in cardiac imaging technology. Our aim was to apply segment-specific standards to assess the accuracy of fetal echocardiography. Methods This was a retrospective review of all fetal echocardiograms (n = 915) performed at our center between August 1998 and June 2003. Of these, 100 studies had congenital heart disease findings and corresponding postnatal studies on the same patients for comparison. An expert independent pediatric echocardiologist, using the standards of accuracy expected of postnatal echocardiography, assessed the studies for the following cardiac segments: abdominal situs, systemic venous return (VR), pulmonary VR, atria, atrioventricular valves, ventricular septum, ventricular hypoplasia, ventricular morphology, semilunar valves, great arterial relation and aortic arch. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values were calculated for each segment. Results Specificity and negative predictive value were high for all cardiac segments (range, 82–100%). Sensitivity and positive predictive value were similarly high (range, 83–100%) for most cardiac segments, but were only 50–88% for systemic VR, pulmonary VR and aortic arch segments. Conclusions Fetal echocardiography has excellent diagnostic accuracy in describing intracardiac anatomy. However, despite both technological advances and improved physician awareness, assessment of systemic VR, pulmonary VR, and aortic arch anatomy remain challenging. Copyright © 2006 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The content, integrity, and efficacy of a nurse coaching intervention in type 2 diabetes.

PURPOSEthe purpose of this study was to systematically evaluate the content, integrity, and efficacy of a nurse coaching intervention provided after diabetes education that focused on dietary and exercise lifestyle change in persons with type 2 diabetes.METHODSA multimethod design incorporated an interpretive approach to examine the content and integrity of the intervention and a multiple-baseline, single-subject method to determine the preliminary efficacy of the intervention.RESULTSThe primary strategies of the nurse coaching intervention consisted of facilitating lifestyle change through educational reinforcement, psychosocial support, and motivational guidance. Aggregate quantitative outcomes revealed a modest increase in health-promoting behaviors and a decrease in fasting blood glucose, indicating a trend toward physiologic adaptation. Participants demonstrated a significant increase in integration reflective of psychosocial adaptation.CONCLUSIONSProviding individualized nursing care after diabetes ...
Mixed conductivity of Na1+4xMxIIFe2xIIIZr2−3xP3O12, MII: Fe2+, Co2+ and Ni2+

Abstract Zirconium substituted NASICONs, Na 1+4 x M x II Fe 2 x III Zr 2−3 x P 3 O 12 (M II : Fe 2+ , Co 2+ , Ni 2+ ) are obtainable in the range of 0≦ x ≦0.5, which are isostructural to NaZr 2 P 3 O 12 according to powder X-ray patterns. The temperature dependences of the overall electrical conductivities of materials incorporating these three elements with x =0.5 were nearly equal to each other. These materials showed 7×10 −3 S cm −1 at 300°C, and an activation energy of 37 kJ/mol. An electronic conductivity of 5×10 −4 S cm −1 was observed for Na 3 Fe 0.5 II Fe III Zr 0.5 P 3 O 12 at 300°C. However, the electronic conductivity observed for Co 2+ or Ni 2+ substituted materials was very low.
Impact of congenital heart disease on cerebrovascular blood flow dynamics in the fetus

Objectives Neurological abnormalities are present in some children after repair of congenital heart disease (CHD). Recently, structural brain abnormalities have been identified in infants prior to cardiac surgery. By altering in utero blood flow patterns, the type of CHD may impact upon cerebrovascular flow dynamics prior to birth. We sought to determine whether left- and right-sided obstructive congenital heart lesions modify cerebrovascular flow dynamics in the fetus. Methods Pulsed Doppler was used to measure blood flow velocities in the umbilical (UA) and middle cerebral (MCA) arteries in 172 fetuses from 20 to 39 weeks' gestational age referred for fetal echocardiography. Pulsatility index (PI), an indicator of downstream vascular resistance, was determined by (peak systolic velocity—end-diastolic velocity)/mean velocity. Results Fetuses with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS; n = 28) had decreased MCA-PI (P = 0.009) compared to normal fetuses (n = 114). Fetuses with right-sided obstructive lesions (RSOL; n = 17) had increased MCA-PI (P = 0.001) when compared to fetuses with HLHS. The UA-PI was elevated in fetuses with RSOLs (P = 0.045). Conclusions Cerebrovascular resistance is lower than normal in fetuses with HLHS, a condition in which cerebral perfusion occurs retrograde via the ductus arteriosus. Fetuses with RSOL had significantly higher cerebrovascular resistance compared to fetuses with HLHS. The type of CHD impacts upon fetal cerebrovascular blood flow distribution and this may have implications for later development of neurological sequelae. Copyright © 2004 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
13C chemical shift non-equivalence in methylene carbons of monosubstituted cyclohexanes

Monosubstituted cyclohexanes were synthesized by addition of a cyclohexyl radical to olefins bearing different substituents at the α-position. Six distinct methylene 13C resonances were observed, indicating that the methylene carbons located at the 2 and 6 positions and at the 3 and 5 positions are not magnetically equivalent. This magnetic non-equivalence (anisochronism) observed in the monosubstituted cyclohexanes is due to the introduction of an asymmetric center β to the prochiral C-1 ring carbon.
Nonlinear effects in Schottky junction under a periodic reverse bias with large amplitude

Abstract Potential, ionized impurity, and free carrier distributions are investigated for Schottky junction under a reverse bias with an alternating component which is large compared to k B T / q . Nonlinear effects in the junction behavior are considered in the framework of a general large signal model as well as is in the framework of a second-order model. Free carrier distribution is assumed to be an equilibrium one and impurity ionization is treated using Shockley–Read–Hall statistics. It is shown that in the large-signal case potential, ionized impurity, and free carrier distributions are significantly different from the corresponding small-signal distributions. The proposed second-order model is shown to be accurate for the values of the fundamental of ac potential which are less or approximately equal to k B T / q .
Science, ethics, and future of research into maternal-infant transmission of HIV-1

Effective, feasible interventions to prevent perinatal transmission of HIV-1 in developing nations are an urgent necessity. Scientific issues of concern include a need to identify other effective antiretroviral agents; to define the shortest effective course of therapy; to assess interventions other than antiretroviral agents; and to investigate interventions that may reduce HIV-1 transmission via breastfeeding. Sound scientific design is fundamental to all research studies. Ethical standards must guide such studies and include the necessity that the problem studied be a health priority in the host country; that the highest standard of care attainable in the country be assured to participants; that the health-care resources of the country not be harmed; that the informed consent of participants be obtained; and that a process of discussion ensure that a successful intervention will be considered for implementation. There are circumstances in which a no-antiretroviral comparison may be ethically justified.
Mazzini and the making of the republican ideology

Abstract This article examines Giuseppe Mazzini's contribution to republicanism envisaged as an ideology and a political program whose aim was the formation of a political party capable of competing in the electoral process of a representative and constitutional government. The central theme is the role of republican ideology before and after Unification. Through an analysis of Mazzini's three great polemical ruptures with liberalism (over the idea of liberty) with class-based socialism (over the idea of solidarity) and with democratic ideology (over the idea of legitimacy), the article seeks to highlight the key components of the ideological identity that Mazzini sought to give first to the republican movement and then to the republican party.
The interaction of 2-mercapto-benzothiazole with certain platinum group element derivatives

Abstract This paper is a general study of the interaction of certain platinum group element derivatives with 2-mercapto-benzothiazole. A general method for the preparation of several 2-mercapto-benzothiazole platinum group element derivatives is presented. Nuclear magnetic resonance and i.r. data indicate that 2-mercapto-benzothiazole exists entirely in the thioketo form; however, this reagent reacts with certain platinum elements by changing into the thiol form.
The Hitchin-Kobayashi correspondence for twisted triples

We introduce the twisted coupled vortex equations defined over a closed Kahler manifold X. There is an associated notion of stability for certain triples of holomorphic data on X. We establish a Hitchin–Kobayashi correspondence which relates the existence of solutions to these equations and the stability of a corresponding triple.
Physicochemical Properties of Soy Protein Adhesives Obtained by In Situ Sodium Bisulfite Modification During Acid Precipitation

Successful industrial applications of soy protein adhesives require high adhesion strength and low viscosity at high solid protein concentration. This study examined the effects of β-conglycinin (7S) and glycinin (11S) ratios on the physicochemical properties of soy protein adhesives. Soy protein adhesives with various 7S/11S ratios were extracted from soy flour slurry modified with sodium bisulfite using the acid precipitation method, which is based on the different solubilities of 7S and 11S globulins. Seven glycinin-rich soy protein fractions and six β-conglycinin-rich soy protein fractions were obtained. The external morphology of the samples changed from the viscous cohesive phase to the clay-like phase without cohesiveness. The viscous cohesive samples had good flowability and good water resistance with a wet adhesion strength of 2.0–2.8 MPa. They were stable for up to several months without phase separation at room temperature. Based on the results, we suggest that proper protein–protein interaction, hydration capacity (glycinin-rich soy protein fractions), and certain ratios of 7S and 11S (β-conglycinin rich soy protein fractions) in the soy protein sample are crucial to continuous protein phase formation. Hydrogen bonding, electrostatic forces, and hydrophobic interactions are involved in maintaining the protein viscous cohesive network, whereas disulfide bonds do not exert significant effects. This study describes a new way to investigate viscous cohesive soy protein systems with high solid protein content, thus alleviating the disadvantages of traditional methods for studying the adhesive properties of soy protein isolates, which tend to have poor water resistance, low solid contents, and short storage life.
Ice-melting practices on transmission lines

THE SHORT-CIRCUIT and phase-shift methods for removal of ice formation from approximately 95 per cent of its 3,200 miles of 33-, 66-, and 132-kv transmission lines are being used by Public Service Company of Northern Illinois, Wheaton. These methods are used when the severity and extent of ice storms in the company's 11,000 square miles of territory make ice prevention measures through additional line loadings and current circulation in transmission-line loops not wholly effective.
A novel fair queuing algorithm for hybrid wired/wireless architecture with wireless compensation to provide end-to-end quality of service support

We proposed novel hybrid FSO/RF architecture 1 to provide broadband wireless access to end users. To provide quality of service (QoS) bounds for different types of traffic(voice, video and data) we proposed some fair queuing algorithms 2,3 ,but because of the hybrid wired and wireless links there can be certain times allocated to a host when that host is unable to transmit data because of wireless link errors. These wireless link errors are location dependent and bursty. The channel errors can occur from multi-path fading, shadow fading or interference from another device. In this paper we proposed a novel fair queuing algorithm to provide end to end QoS bounds to the end users for the proposed architecture .The algorithm provide QoS bounds for Ethernet traffic in the wired domain as well as in wireless domain with compensation for wireless link errors. Scheduler maps priorities and weights for QoS of the Ethernet traffic into wireless MAC. By supporting existing Ethernet traffic QoS parameters 4-7 , scheduler avoids the need to redefine QoS parameters for wireless channel. By simulations and analysis we proved that the algorithm guarantees (1) delay and throughput for error-free flows, (2) short term fairness among error-free flows, (3) long term fairness among errored and error-free flows,(4) graceful degradation for leading flows and graceful compensation for lagging flows. Each connection QoS is guaranteed by calculating bounds on delay and reserving the Bandwidth (BW).
The crystal structure of [Ni(H2O)6][C6H5SO3]2 : a comparison of hexaaqua divalent layered ions

Abstract The title compound was prepared by slow evaporation of an acetonitrile solution of (NEt4)2[Ni-(SC6H5)4] containing NO under unintentionally aerobic conditions and its structure determined by single-crystal X-ray diffractometry. It crystallizes in the monoclinic system, space group P21/n with a = 6.976(1), b = 6.301(1), c = 22.384(4) A, V = 981.9(3) A3, Z = 2. The ions pack in layers with hydrophilic and hydrophobic regions held together by strong hydrogen bonds between the oxygen atoms of the sulfonate anion and the hydrogen atoms of the coordinated water molecules at OH distances averaging 1.83 A. The relationship of this structure to others containing divalent metal ions in layered ionic structures and the significance of the hydrophilic and hydrophobic layering is discussed.
Oxygen consumption and activity in salamanders: Effect of body size and lunglessness

Oxygen consumption during and after two minutes of strenuous activity was measured at 25°C in three groups of salamanders: temperate zone lunged, temperate zone lungless, and neotropical lungless. No increase in oxygen consumption was detected during two minutes of activity. There were significant differences among the three groups of salamanders in the effect of body size on maximum oxygen consumption and aerobic scope. Small lungless salamanders consumed more oxygen than small lunged salamanders; however, large lunged salamanders consumed more oxygen than large lungless salamanders. Neotropical lungless salamanders showed lower maximum oxygen consumption than temperate zone lungless salamanders, but the effect of body size was similar in these two groups. Small salamanders, both lunged and lungless, pay off oxygen debt at the same relative rate as indicated by percent of scope. Large lungless salamanders pay off debt at a slower rate than large lunged salamanders. Maximum oxygen consumption, aerobic scope, and payoff of oxygen debt are correlated with total respiratory surface area, especially at large sizes. Large lungless salamanders show a reduced capacity to transport oxygen following activity.
Timing Matters: Shifts in the Causal Determinants of Sodomy Law Decriminalization, 1961–1998

While research on social movement outcomes has increased significantly, less is known about how the causal determinants of movement success might vary over time. Quantitative historical methods, such as time series and event history analysis, take time-varying factors into account, but these methods also assume that the statistical relationships found are stable over time. This may not always be true. Instead, changing historical contexts may lead to changes in the causal determinants of movement outcomes, so a movement tactic such as legal mobilization is important in some years, but not in others. Using a series of “moving” event histories, this article investigates whether there have been variations over time in the causal determinants of sodomy law decriminalization, a long-term goal of the gay and lesbian movement, between 1961 and 1998. Results indicate that that the causes of decriminalization do vary across time. More specifically, the shift from legislative repeal to judicial invalidation as the primary mechanism of decriminalization, and changes in the primary advocates of reform from legal experts to movement activists significantly changed the factors contributing to sodomy law decriminalization over time.
Lipopolysaccharide Signaling without a Nucleus: Kinase Cascades Stimulate Platelet Shedding of Proinflammatory IL-1β–Rich Microparticles

Platelets contain unspliced heteronuclear IL-1β RNA, which is rapidly spliced and translated upon activation. LPS is a superior agonist for this atypical platelet response, but how LPS induces proinflammatory cytokine production in anucleate cells lacking NF-κB is unknown. Platelets express functional TLR4, and stimulation by LPS induced rapid splicing, translation, and secretion of mature IL-1β after caspase-1 processing. LPS stimulated microparticle shedding, and secreted IL-1β was exclusively present in these particles. Microparticles from LPS-stimulated platelets induced VCAM-1 production by cultured human endothelial cells, and blockade of endothelial IL-1β receptor with IL-1 receptor antagonist completely suppressed endothelial activation. Splicing was posttranscriptional as the SR kinase inhibitor TG003 blocked IL-1β RNA production by platelets, but not by monocytes, and was dependent on exogenous CD14--a property of platelets. We used a combination of small-molecule inhibitors, cell-penetrating chimeric peptide inhibitors, and gene-targeted animals to show splicing required MyD88 and TIRAP, and IRAK1/4, Akt, and JNK phosphorylation and activation. Traf6 couples MyD88 to the Akt pathway and, remarkably, a Traf6 interacting peptide-antennapedia chimera was more effective than LPS in stimulating IL-1β splicing. The Traf6 chimera did not, however, stimulate microparticle shedding, nor was IL-1β released. We conclude LPS-induced kinase cascades are sufficient to alter cellular responses, that three signals emanate from platelet TLR4, and that Akt and JNK activation are sufficient to initiate posttranscriptional splicing while another event couples microparticle shedding to TLR4 activation. Platelets contribute to the inflammatory response to LPS through production of microparticles that promote endothelial cell activation.
Application of Mannich Reaction to Sulfones II: Role of Aromatic Aldehydes in Condensation

Pyridine-2-carboxaldehyde, indole-3-carboxaldehyde, furfural, and p -acetylamino-benzaldehyde gave only polymers when subjected to Mannich reaction conditions in the presence of arylsulfonylacetic acids and ammonium acetate or cyclohexylamine. trans -Cinnamaldehyde, benzaldehyde, p -methoxy-, p -chloro-, p -isopropyl-, 3,4-methylenedioxy-, and 3,4-dimethoxybenzaldehyde were all successful in the condensation. Only unsaturated sulfones could be isolated when cyclohexylamine was employed as amine component.
Designing a super-peer network

A super-peer is a node in a peer-to-peer network that operates both as a server to a set of clients, and as an equal in a network of super-peers. Super-peer networks strike a balance between the efficiency of centralized search, and the autonomy, load balancing and robustness to attacks provided by distributed search. Furthermore, they take advantage of the heterogeneity of capabilities (e.g., bandwidth, processing power) across peers, which recent studies have shown to be enormous. Hence, new and old P2P systems like KaZaA and Gnutella are adopting super-peers in their design. Despite their growing popularity, the behavior of super-peer networks is not well understood. For example, what are the potential drawbacks of super-peer networks? How can super-peers be made more reliable? How many clients should a super-peer take on to maximize efficiency? we examine super-peer networks in detail, gaming an understanding of their fundamental characteristics and performance tradeoffs. We also present practical guidelines and a general procedure for the design of an efficient super-peer network.
Rotating Anisotropies Without Superparamagnetic Grains in Exchange Bias Systems

Abstract : We introduce a random field model with anisotropic interfacial exchange for ferromagnet/antiferromagnet bilayers and calculate average coupling energies and coupling directions for different grain or domain sizes. The model is shown to reconcile Malozemoff's random field Ising model for exchange bias with the spinflop coupling mechanism. Furthermore, we find that for small and mid size domains, the average coupling direction strongly varies between different interfacial configurations. We show how this behavior can lead to rotating anisotropies in systems with very strong magnetocrystalline anisotropies, where the use of superparamagnetic grains or domains in the antiferromagnet is not justified.
Using an Interactive Computer Game to Increase Skill and Self-Efficacy Regarding Safer Sex Negotiation: Field Test Results:

This article describes the development, field testing, and evaluation of an interactive computer program, "Life Challenge," developed by the New York State Department of Health as a tool for enhancing adolescents' sense of self-efficacy in HIV/AIDS prevention programs. The computer kiosks were field tested in 13 sites serving high-risk adolescents. The program uses a time travel adventure game format to provide information and nonthreatening skill practice. Users record and play back their responses as they "negotiate" with their chosen partners. A proof of concept evaluation with analysis of 211 audio responses found that users took negotiating tasks seriously; statistically significant learning gains were achieved on knowledge items and in self-efficacy scores (greatest improvement for those with low baseline self-efficacy levels). Challenges and problems encountered in implementing the project are described, and the potential of using computers for skill practice and educational interventions in health...
Forest response and recovery following disturbance in upland forests of the Atlantic Coastal Plain.

Carbon and water cycling of forests contribute significantly to the Earth’s overall biogeochemical cycling and may be affected by disturbance and climate change. As a larger body of research becomes available about leaf-level, ecosystem and regional scale effects of disturbances on forest ecosystems, a more mechanistic understanding is developing which can improve modeling efforts. Here, we summarize some of the major effects of physical and biogenic disturbances, such as drought, prescribed fire, and insect defoliation, on leaf and ecosystem-scale physiological responses as well as impacts on carbon and water cycling in an Atlantic Coastal Plain upland oak/pine and upland pine forest. During drought, stomatal conductance and canopy stomatal conductance were reduced, however, defoliation increased conductance on both leaf-level and canopy scale. Furthermore, after prescribed fire, leaf-level stomatal conductance was unchanged for pines but decreased for oaks, while canopy stomatal conductance decreased temporarily, but then rebounded the following growing season, thus exhibiting transient responses. This study suggests that forest response to disturbance varies from the leaf to ecosystem level as well as species level and thus, these differential responses interplay to determine the fate of forest structure and functioning post disturbance.
Data types and extensible languages

Definition mechanisms for extensible programming languages, in principle, allow variation of the language definition in various directions: data types, operations, control structure and syntax. We will focus our attention here on the definitional capabilities that one might expect from a data type extension mechanism. First, we will define informally what the nature of a data type is, what kind of information it contains. Then, we will discuss the most classical approach for data type definition in extensible languages. Finally, we will sketch a model for a mechanism which would permit to introduce really new data types in a language.
The RITE assay: identifying effectors that target the transcription machinery using phage display technology.

We describe an approach using phage display to identify effectors (activators and repressors) of transcription based on the particular component of the general transcription machinery that they target. We refer to this approach as the reverse identification of transcriptional effectors (RITE) assay. A library of phages containing cDNA-encoded peptides displayed on their surfaces is screened using as the target a specific region of one of the general transcription factors (e.g., the C terminus of hTAFII135). The amino acid sequence encoded by the cDNA of an interacting phage is determined and analyzed in a database homology search to identify known or novel factors that may interact with the target protein. Candidate effectors from the homology search are synthesized from recombinant clones and tested for their abilities to bind to the target protein and to functionally modulate transcription in vivo when co-expressed with the transcriptional target protein. Because the RITE assay is a direct measure of the interactions between general transcription proteins and their effectors, it has an advantage over the well-known yeast two-hybrid system, which is not amenable to identifying transcription factor interactions.
Ethnic Identity and Job Attribute Preferences: The Role of Collectivism and Psychological Capital

The globalization of the workforce has resulted in the need to recruit talent from an increasingly diverse labor market. Understanding how ethnicity may drive individual preferences regarding two i...
A stable fourth-order FDTD method for modeling electrically long dielectric waveguides

Accurate time-domain modeling of electrically long structures such as dielectric waveguides in integrated optics often demands prohibitive computational cost. In this paper, an efficient fourth-order finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method is investigated in a two-dimensional (2-D) transverse electric (TE) case. The method is a combination of fourth-order staggered backward-differentiation time integrator and fourth-order staggered spatial discretization. A rigorous stability and dispersion analysis is conducted to show its useful numerical characteristics. Fourth-order convergence of the numerical scheme is demonstrated by monitoring numerical errors in the L/sub 2/ norm in 2-D cavities. Numerical efficiency of the fourth-order method is validated through its applications for full-wave time-domain simulations of long 2-D optical waveguide structures.
Dissimilation of Carbon Monoxide to Acetic Acid by Glucose-Limited Cultures of Clostridium thermoaceticum.

Clostridium thermoaceticum was cultivated in glucose-limited media, and the dissimilation of CO to acetic acid was evaluated. We found that cultures catalyzed the rapid dissimilation of CO to acetic acid and CO2, with the stoichiometry obtained for conversion approximating that predicted from the following reaction: 4CO + 2H2O → CH3CO2H + 2CO2. Growing cultures formed approximately 50 mmol (3 g) of CO-derived acetic acid per liter of culture, with the rate of maximal consumption approximating 9.1 mmol of CO consumed/h per liter of culture. In contrast, resting cells were found not to dissimilate CO to acetic acid. 14CO was incorporated, with equal distribution between the carboxyl and methyl carbons of acetic acid when the initial cultivation gas phase was 100% CO, whereas 14CO2 preferentially entered the carboxyl carbon when the initial gas phase was 100% CO2. Significantly, in the presence of saturating levels of CO, 14CO2 preferentially entered the methyl carbon, whereas saturating levels of CO2 yielded 14CO-derived labeling predominantly in the carboxyl carbon. These findings are discussed in relation to the path of carbon flow to acetic acid.
Colorectal cancer screening mode preferences among US veterans.

Abstract Objective To assess colorectal cancer (CRC) screening mode preferences and correlates of these preferences among US veterans at average risk for CRC. Method A cross-sectional survey of a nationally representative sample of VA patients was conducted between January 2005 and December 2006. We report preference distributions for screening modes among 2068 average-risk veterans and across patient subgroups based on personal, behavioral, and environmental factors. Independent predictors of preferences are identified through hierarchical logistic regression models. Results Colonoscopy (37%) was the most preferred mode followed by fecal occult blood test (FOBT) (29%). The strongest predictors of preferences were previous screening experience, provider recommendation, and use of non-VA healthcare services. Participants in higher socioeconomic groups were more likely to choose colonoscopy and less likely to indicate no preference. Conclusion Screening programs that offer only one mode fail to accommodate the preferences of a substantial proportion of patients. Within the VA, adding screening colonoscopy to programs currently offering only FOBT is likely to increase preferences for colonoscopy, as patients incorporate provider recommendations for and personal experience with colonoscopy into their preferences. This is likely to disproportionately benefit lower socioeconomic groups who do not currently have access to non-VA colonoscopy services.
lagC-null and gbf-null cells define key steps in the morphogenesis of Dictyostelium mounds.

Abstract The transition to multicellularity is a key feature of theDictyosteliumlife cycle, and two genes,gbfandlagC, are known to play pivotal roles in regulating this developmental switch.lagC-null andgbf-null cells fail to induce cell-type-specific genes ordinarily expressed during multicellular development. The null mutants also share a similar morphological phenotype: mutant cells repeatedly aggregate to form a loose mound, disperse, and reform a mound, rather than proceeding to form a tip. To characterize defects in morphogenesis in these mutants, we examined cell motion in the mutant mounds. In analogy with the failed transition in gene expression, we found thatlagC-null andgbf-null mounds failed to make a morphogenetic transition from random to rotational motion normally observed in the parent strain. One reason for this was the inability of the mutant mounds to establish a single, dominant signaling-wave center. This defect oflagC-null orgbf-null cells could be overcome by the addition of adenosine, which alters cAMP signaling, but then even in the presence of apparently normal signaling waves, cell motility was still aberrant. This motility defect, as well as the signaling-wave defect, could be overcome inlagC-null cells by overexpression of GBF, suggesting thatlagCis dispensable if GBF protein levels are high enough. This set of morphogenetic defects that we have observed helps define key steps in mound morphogenesis. These include the establishment of a dominant signaling-wave center and the capacity of cells to move directionally within the cell mass in response to guidance cues.
Bringing expertise to the people: universities and citizen deliberation in the making of technology policy

This paper examines participatory public policy analysis practices and argues that, in light of resident expertise and professional culture, universities are the most appropriate institutional setting for such practices.
1-[4-(2-Oxo-1,2-dihydropyridin-1-yl)phenyl]pyridin-2(1H)-one

The centrosymmetric title compound, C16H12N2O2, is composed of two pyridin-2(1H)-one rings linked to the para-positions of a central benzene ring via C—N bonds. Inter­molecular C—H⋯O inter­actions produce infinite mol­ecular sheets made up of R22(8) and R22(14) rings. C—H⋯π(arene) inter­actions inter­connect the sheets.
Structure of shells from eggs of kinosternid turtles.

Shells from eggs of five species of kinosternid turtle (Sternotherus minor, Kinosternon flavescens, K. baurii, K. Hirtipes, and K. alamosae) were examined with light and scanning electron microscopy. Except for possible differences among species in thickness of eggshells, structure of shells from all eggs was similiar. In general, kinosternid turtles lay eggs having a rigid calcareous layer composed of calcium carbonate in the form of aragonite. The calcareous layer is organized into individual shell units with needlelike crystallites radiating from a common center. Most of the thickness of the eggshell is attributable to the calcareous layer, with the fibrous shell membrane comprising only a small fraction of shell thickness. Pores are found in the calcareous layer, but they are not numereous. The outer surface of the eggshells is sculptured and may have a thick, organic layer in places. The outer surface of the shell membrane of decalcified eggshells is studded with spherical cores which presumably nucleate growth of shell units during shell formation. The shell membrane detaches from eggs incubated to hatching, carrying with it remnants of the calcareous layer. Such changes in shell structure presumably reflect withdrawal of calcium from the eggshell by developing embryos.
A Psychometric Analysis of the Revised Child Anxiety and Depression Scale—Parent Version in a Clinical Sample

The Revised Child Anxiety and Depression Scale—Parent Version (RCADS-P) is a parent-report questionnaire of youth anxiety and depression with scales corresponding to the DSM diagnoses of separation anxiety disorder, social phobia, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and major depressive disorder. The RCADS-P was recently developed and has previously demonstrated strong psychometric properties in a clinic-referred sample (Ebesutani et al., Journal of Abnormal Child Psychology 38, 249–260, 2010b). The present study examined the psychometric properties of the RCADS-P in a school-based population. As completed by parents of 967 children and adolescents, the RCADS-P demonstrated high internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and good convergent/divergent validity, supporting the RCADS-P as a measure of internalizing problems specific to depression and five anxiety disorders in school samples. Normative data are also reported to allow for the derivation of T-scores to enhance clinicians’ ability to make classification decisions using RCADS-P subscale scores.
Local versus landscape-scale effects of savanna trees on grasses

Summary 1. Savanna ecosystems – defined by the coexistence of trees and grasses – cover more than one-fifth the world’s land surface and harbour most of the world’s rangelands, livestock and large mammal diversity. Savanna trees can have a variety of effects on grasses, with consequences for the wild and domestic herbivores that depend on them. 2. Studies of these effects have focused on two different spatial scales. At the scale of individual trees, many studies have shown net positive effects of trees on sub-canopy grass nutrient concentrations and biomass. At the landscape scale, other studies have shown negative effects of high tree densities on grass productivity. These disparate results have led to different conclusions about the effects of trees on forage quality and ungulate nutrition in savannas. 3. We integrate these approaches by examining the effects of trees on grasses at both spatial scales and across a range of landscape-scale tree densities. We quantified grass biomass, species composition and nutrient concentrations in these different contexts in an Acacia drepanolobium savanna in Laikipia, Kenya. 4. Individual trees had positive effects on grass biomass, most likely because trees enrich soil nitrogen. Grass leaf phosphorus in sub-canopy areas, however, was depressed. The effects of individual trees could explain the effects of increasing landscape-scale tree cover for the biomass of only two of the four dominant grass species. 5. The negative effects of trees on grass and soil phosphorus, combined with depressed grass productivity in areas of high tree cover, suggest that ungulate nutrition may be compromised in areas with many trees. 6. Synthesis. We conclude that few, isolated trees may have positive local effects on savanna grasses and forage, but in areas of high tree density the negative landscape-scale effects of trees are likely to outweigh these positive effects. In savannas and other patchy landscapes, attempts to predict the consequences of changes in patch abundances for ecosystem services (e.g. rangeland productivity and carbon sequestration) will depend on our understanding of the extent to which local, patchscale dynamics do or do not predict landscape-scale dynamics.
Technical Policy Council

The Technical Policy Council, one of five IEEE-USA councils, is responsible for interpreting and influencing US technical policies. The primary function of these councils is to affect legislation for the benefit of all Americans from the rational viewpoint of electrical engineers. To influence federal legislation and policy, USAB's five councils deal with specific areas of concern. Technology Policy Council provides "...objective technical advice to legislative and executive policy makers concerning proposed laws and regulations involving electrotechnology... 'and "...also supplies interpretations of new technologies and promotes national technology policies that enhance US, competitiveness.".
Mangroves Living at the Edges: A Social Survey Based on Environmental Issue

Mangroves form a unique ecosystem in a coastal environment that is in constant flux and forms productive biomes. They thrive in a salty environment like coastal regions and estuaries and aid towards disaster management by facing the onslaught of giant waves such as Tsunami. It is an important asset from an ecological standpoint. In recent years, Mangrove communities have been uprooted and destroyed due to anthropogenic activity. Realizing the importance of mangroves, a community based awareness survey was made and the importance of mangroves and its possible role in disaster mitigation are emphasized. Survey reveals joint efforts should be taken by both the government and the local community to conserve and grow mangroves to save mankind from disaster.
Fine-scale turbulent noise predictions from non-axisymmetric jets

In this work a model for fine-scale turbulent noise predictions from non-axisymmetric, heated and unheated jets is developed. This model, called GENO, improves upon the previous noise prediction methods JeNo and MGBK by including the effects of mean flow refraction from non-circular geometry, as well as a more complete model for the self, shear, and enthalpy noise sources. The Green's function for non-axisymmetric flows is determined by solving the Lilley-Goldstein equation in terms of coupled azimuthal modes. Additionally, the noise source model evaluates the fourth order velocity correlation tensor Iijkl for the general case and the relationship between non-zero components is found. This is combined with an empirical noise source model for heated jets. Acoustic results using GENO are shown for aspect ratio 2:1 and 4:1 rectangular jets, under unheated (SP7) and heated (SP46) conditions, and the comparisons agree favorably with experimental data.
Persistent nasal speech in a patient with myasthenia gravis.

A 49-year-old man with 24-year history of acetylcholine receptor antibody positive (AchR) myasthenia gravis (MG) presented with worsening dyspnea, orthopnea, diplopia, dysphagia, and muscle weakness. For 10 years after diagnosis, he received only pyridostigmine. Subsequently, after an exacerbation, he started prednisone 80 mg daily, pyridostigmine extended release 180 mg twice a day, and mycophenolate (stopped after 10 years because of infections). Prednisone was tapered and he was taking 40 mg every other day at the time of presentation (same dose for 7 years). He received 5 sessions of plasmapheresis for MG exacerbation. After treatment his symptoms improved but nasal speech persisted. On examination, he could not elevate his eyebrows and tongue protrusion was weak and had central furrowing. Palate did not elevate, even with gag reflex testing. MRI showed T1 hyperintensity in intrinsic tongue and palate muscles (figure).
Fatigue Behavior and Modeling for Thermoplastics

In this study, the cyclic behavior and the microstructure under cyclic loading of a semi-crystalline thermoplastic polyether ether ketone (PEEK) are investigated. Macroscopic strain life experiments under uniaxial loading condition were conducted at strain amplitudes ranging from 0.02 mm/mm to 0.04 mm/mm and at ambient temperature. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis was performed on fatigue specimens to examine crack incubation sites and microstructural inclusions responsible for incubating fatigue cracks. Other microstructural inclusion properties including inclusion type (pore or particle), inclusion size, and nearest neighbor distance of inclusions were also obtained. Based on the experimental results, the strain-based fatigue model was employed to obtain strain-life fatigue properties and e-N fatigue curves of PEEK.
DRIVELINE FRACTURES IN PATIENTS WITH LEFT VENTRICULAR ASSIST DEVICES: A STUDY OF CLINICAL COURSE AND OUTCOMES

Mechanical circulatory support with left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) has greatly improved outcomes in patients with heart failure. However, despite positive results, complications exist. This study investigates the prevalence, clinical course, management, and outcomes of patients with LVAD