cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Differential mRNA accumulation and translation during Spisula development.

Abstract The patterns of proteins synthesized in developing Spisula embryos and larvae were compared with in vitro translation products by one-dimensional gel electrophoresis. Major changes in the in vivo pattern occur at fertilization; these are regulated at the translational level (Rosenthal, Hunt, and Ruderman, 1980, Cell 20, 487–494) . The pattern is further altered by midcleavage, and subsequent development is accompanied by frequent changes in the kinds of proteins made. By midcleavage many of the in vivo changes are paralleled by alterations in mRNA levels. Three cDNA clones containing developmentally regulated, nonmitochondrial sequences were isolated from a library constructed from veliger larval RNA. Clone 3v4 encodes α-tubulin. Clone 12v4 encodes a 35,000-D protein of unknown function. The protein product of clone 10v8 has not been identified. The concentration of α-tubulin RNA is relatively low through midcleavage, increases by the swimming gastrula stage, and is maintained at a moderately high level throughout larval development. 10v8 and 12v4 RNAs first appear in trochophore larvae; their concentrations peak 10–12 hr later, and then decline. The proportions of α-tubulin and 10v8 RNA that are translated vary with developmental stage. During early cleavage very little α-tubulin RNA is on polysomes; in swimming gastrulae 64% of this mRNA is polysomal. Seventy percent of 10v8 RNA is translated in the trochophore larva, while only ∼40% is polysomal in the 21-hr veliger. These results show that translational regulation may be superimposed on changes in cytoplasmic mRNA concentrations to determine the level of gene expression during embryogenesis.
Open pore biodegradable matrices formed with gas foaming

Engineering tissues utilizing biodegradable polymer matrices is a promising approach to the treatment of a number of diseases. However, processing techniques utilized to fabricate these matrices typically involve organic solvents and/or high temperatures. Here we describe a process for fabricating matrices without the use of organic solvents and/or elevated temperatures. Disks comprised of polymer [e.g., poly (D,L-lactic-co-glycolic acid)] and NaCl particles were compression molded at room temperature and subsequently allowed to equilibrate with high pressure CO2 gas (800 psi). Creation of a thermodynamic instability led to the nucleation and growth of gas pores in the polymer particles, resulting in the expansion of the polymer particles. The polymer particles fused to form a continuous matrix with entrapped salt particles. The NaCl particles subsequently were leached to yield macropores within the polymer matrix. The overall porosity and level of pore connectivity were regulated by the ratio of polymer/salt particles and the size of salt particles. Both the compressive modulus (159+/-130 kPa versus 289+/-25 kPa) and the tensile modulus (334+/-52 kPa versus 1100+/-236 kPa) of the matrices formed with this approach were significantly greater than those formed with a standard solvent casting/particulate leaching process. The utility of these matrices was demonstrated by engineering smooth muscle tissue in vitro with them. This novel process, a combination of high pressure gas foaming and particulate leaching techniques, allows one to fabricate matrices with a well controlled porosity and pore structure. This process avoids the potential negatives associated with the use of high temperatures and/or organic solvents in biomaterials processing.
Effect of increasing the expression of cholesterol transporters (StAR, MLN64, and SCP-2) on bile acid synthesis.

There are two major pathways of bile acid synthe- sis: the "neutral" pathway, initiated by highly regulated mi- crosomal cholesterol 7 � -hydroxylase (CYP7A1), and an "alternative" pathway, initiated by mitochondrial sterol 27- hydroxylase (CYP27A1). In hepatocyte cultures, overexpres- sion of CYP7A1 increases bile acid synthesis by � 8-fold. However, overexpression of CYP27A1 in hepatocytes only increases it by 1.5-fold, suggesting that additional rate-limit- ing steps must be involved in the regulation of this pathway. The effects of intracellular cholesterol transport proteins on bile acid synthesis have been investigated in the current study. Under culture conditions in which the neutral path- way was inactive, selective overexpression of the gene encod- ing steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), MLN64 (StAR homolog protein), and sterol carrier protein-2 (SCP-2) led to 5.7-, 1.2-, and 1.7-fold increases, respectively, in the rates of bile acid synthesis in primary rat hepatocytes. Sur- prisingly, co-overexpression of MLN64 with StAR, SCP-2, or CYP7A1 blunted the upregulated bile acid synthesis by 48, 47, and 45%, respectively. These results suggest that MLN64, in its full-length form, is not responsible for the transport of cholesterol to the mitochondria or the endo- plasmic reticulum, where CYP27A1 or CYP7A1 is located, respectively. —Ren, S., P. Hylemon, D. Marques, E. Hall, K. Redford, G. Gil, and W. M. Pandak. Effect of increasing the expression of cholesterol transporters (StAR, MLN64, and SCP-2) on bile acid synthesis. J. Lipid Res. 2004. 45: 2123-2131.
The jahn‐teller effect

This paper surveys the present understanding of the Jahn-Teller effect and includes a historical review of the principal advances. The important role of the dynamic Jahn-Teller effect in many experimental phenomena has only recently been recognized, and the predicted effects have now been observed in a large number of systems. The dynamic Jahn-Teller effect also explains why a Jahn-Teller distortion does not appear in certain cases for which it was expected and for which its absence was a long-standing puzzle. A Jahn-Teller distortion or “static” Jahn-Teller effect occurs as a limiting case of the dynamic effect, in the limit of strong coupling, and criteria for this transition are presented.
Organization of kinases, phosphatases, and receptor signaling complexes

The role of protein‐protein interaction domains in signal transduction has been a topic of intensive study for the last ten years. Many of these studies have focused on the role of protein‐protein interactions in signaling downstream of receptor and nonreceptor tyrosine kinases. However, recent evidence has pointed to the extensive role of protein-protein interaction domains in the localization and scaffolding of signaling molecules. This Perspective series reviews the role of protein‐protein interactions in localization and downstream signaling. The first Perspective in the series, by Schillace and Scott, provides an overview of targeting in signal transduction by protein kinases and phosphatases. The second in this issue, by Fanning and Anderson, explores PDZ domains, important for receptor targeting and clustering in a variety of cell systems. This series continues in the April 1999, no. 7, issue; two Perspectives discuss the role of protein‐protein interactions in signaling downstream of tyrosine kinases. Clements and Koretzky highlight new insights into signaling by lymphocytes, while Virkamaki, Ueki, and Kahn examine the role of protein‐protein interactions in insulin signaling and insulin resistance.
Quantitative analysis of the patella following the harvest of a quadriceps tendon autograft with a bone block

Purpose The objective of this study was to determine parameters associated with patellar fracture after quadriceps tendon autograft harvest.
The Anticipatory Governance of Emerging Technologies

The Center for Nanotechnology in Society at Arizona State University (CNS-ASU) is a Nano-scale Science and Engineering Center (NSEC) funded by the US National Science Foundation (NSF). It implements an agenda of “real-time technology assessment” (RTTA) in pursuit of a strategic vision of the “anticipatory governance” of nanotechnologies. To achieve this vision, CNS-ASU unifies research programs not only across several universities but also across three critical, component activities: foresight (of plausible future scenarios), integration (of social science and humanities research with nano-scale science and engineering), and engagement (of publics in deliberations). CNS-ASU also performs educational and training activities as well as public outreach and informal science education. This paper elaborates the Center’s strategic vision of anticipatory governance and its component activities, especially in the context of extending the concerns of societal dimensions research beyond the traditional risk paradigm.
Patients' Perceptions of Screening for Health Literacy: Reactions to the Newest Vital Sign

Difficulties in caring for patients with limited health literacy have prompted interest in health literacy screening. Several prior studies, however, have suggested that health literacy testing can lead to feelings of shame and stigmatization. In this study, we examine patient reaction to the Newest Vital Sign (NVS), a screening instrument developed specifically for use in primary care. Data were collected in 2008 in the Morehouse School of Medicine, Department of Family Medicine Primary Care Clinics, where health literacy screening was implemented as part of routine intake procedures. Following the visit, patients completed a series of questions assessing their screening experiences. A total of 179 patients completed both the NVS and the reaction survey. Nearly all (> 99%) patients reported that the screening did not cause them to feel shameful. There were also no differences in the reported prevalence of shame (p ≤ .33) by literacy level. Finally, when asked if they would recommend clinical screening, 9...
RECOVERY OF COGNITIVE FUNCTIONS AFTER ANAESTHESIA WITH DESFLURANE OR ISOFLURANE AND NITROUS OXIDE

We studied recovery in 25 adult patients, ASA I, undergoing elective orthopaedic procedures after anaesthesia with 0.65 MAC desflurane (n = 16) or isoflurane (n = 9) with 60% nitrous oxide in oxygen. Early emergence from anaesthesia was assessed in the operating room by measuring time to spontaneous movement, cough, response to painful pinch, tracheal extubation, opening of the eyes and stating correct age, name and body parts. The return of cognitive functions in the late recovery phase was assessed in the post-anaesthesia care unit (PACU) by post-anaesthesia recovery scores (PARS), the Trieger dot test (TDT). and the digit substitution test (DST). In the early recovery phase, time to tracheal extubation, opening eyes, telling correct name, age and body parts occurred significantly faster in the desflurane group than in the isoflurane group (P
Transvaginal Sonography of Hematotrachelos and Hematometra Causing Acute Urinary Retention After Previous Repair of Intrapartum Cervical Lacerations

Obstruction of the lower female genital tract leading to proximal dilatation and development of hematocolpos, hematotrachelos, and hematometra is most commonly a result of congenital abnormalities. 1 - 3 These conditions include an imperforate hymen, a complete transverse vaginal septum, and vaginal and, rarely, cervical atresia. 1 - 3 Rarely these abnormalities may be unilateral, associated with lateral fusion defects of the mullerian duct and concurrent ipsilateral renal agenesis. 4 Symptoms noted in adolescents in conjunction with congenital obstruction of the lower female genital tract usually consist of primary amenorrhea and dsymenorrhea, 1 - 3 although acute urinary retention has also been rarely reported. 5 - 7 We present an unusual case in which transvaginal sonographic findings of marked hematotrachelos and hematometra were depicted in a multi-parous patient with acute urinary retention 2 years after repair of cervical lacerations sustained during vaginal delivery.
Will Stocks Continue to Outperform Bonds in the Future

Valuation of the earnings and dividends associated with the S&P 500 Composite Stock Price Index has changed over time. These changes, in conjunction with record amounts of retirement money that are now being funneled into mutual funds and wider fluctuations in the price of corporate bonds, suggest that the earnings and dividend price ratios for representative stock market averages may someday be reduced to the point where the before-tax returns on equities will not be greater than the returns on corporate bonds.
The intention of continued web-enabled phone service usage: A quality perspective

The cell phone industry is in a unique position that lies in the intersection of high technology and service industry. There is exponential growth in the mobile phone service market with new innovation and modern technology serving as the catalyst to this growth. The aim of this study is to provide insight into the importance of quality attributes to behavioral intentions. In this work we posit a research model based on the quality literature. The proposed model is compared with the predictive level of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). Using Partial Least Squares (PLS) our findings suggest that, as hypothesized, perceived service quality and perceived satisfaction in web access quality are essential in consumers’ intent of continued service usage (ICU). Also, our parsimonious model is a more highly predictive model than TAM in explaining an internet-enabled mobile phone user’s continued service usage intention.
A LANGUAGE ATTITUDE ANALYSIS OF REGIONAL US SPEECH: IS NORTHERN US ENGLISH NOT FREINDLY ENOUGH?

In a number of publication in the area of 'perceptual dialectology' (e.g., Preston 1989), 1have complained that ‘classical' language attitude surveys do not take into consideration the Respondent’s folk linguistic awareness of varies (neither of the identificational strategies they use in 'locating ' speakers nor of the 'mental maps ' they have of regional speech areas). In this study I show how previous findings from perceptual dialectology may he used in an attitude research study and discuss the results of such a study of young Northern US (Michigan) respondents with regard to their own and to 'Southern' US speech. In conclusion, I suggest that such linguistically 'secure' speakers may be assigning even greater affective value to stigmatized areas than similar speakers from such areas have in past surveys.
Identification of Clonogenic Common Lymphoid Progenitors in Mouse Bone Marrow

The existence of a common lymphoid progenitor that can only give rise to T cells, B cells, and natural killer (NK) cells remains controversial and constitutes an important gap in the hematopoietic lineage maps. Here, we report that the Lin(-)IL-7R(+)Thy-1(-)Sca-1loc-Kit(lo) population from adult mouse bone marrow possessed a rapid lymphoid-restricted (T, B, and NK) reconstitution capacity in vivo but completely lacked myeloid differentiation potential either in vivo or in vitro. A single Lin(-)IL-7R(+)Thy-1(-)Sca-1loc-Kit(lo) cell could generate at least both T and B cells. These data provide direct evidence for the existence of common lymphoid progenitors in sites of early hematopoiesis.
The use of strained meats as the protein basis for milk substitutes in the treatment of milk allergy

Abstract 1.1. The use of specially strained meat as a protein basis for milk substitutes in the manner described by Rowe is discussed. 2.2. Three case reports, illustrative of the successful use of such substitutes, are presented.
Automated construction in the ATLSS integrated building systems

Abstract The AIBS (ATLSS Integrated Building Systems) program was developed to coordinate ongoing research projects in automated construction and connections systems. The objective of this program is to design, fabricate, erect, and evaluate cost-effective building systems with a focus on providing a computer integrated approach to these activities. A family of structural systems, called ATLSS connections, is being developed with enhanced fabrication and erection characteristics. These ATLSS connections possess the capability of being erected by automated construction techniques. This feature minimizes human assistance during construction and will result in quicker, less expensive erection procedures in which workers are less susceptible to injury or fatalities. The technology for automated construction is heavily dependent on the use of Stewart platform cranes which are controlled by a system of six cables to allow precise movement in six directions. A scale-model Stewart platform crane has been constructed in the ATLSS laboratory to test the feasibility and limitations of automated construction with these connections.
Performance analysis of closed-loop transmit diversity in the presence of feedback delay

In this paper, a bit-error-rate (BER) analysis for closed-loop transmit diversity in a time-selective Rayleigh fading channel containing feedback delay is presented. In the absence of feedback delay, closed-loop transmit diversity always outperforms open-loop transmit for a given transmitted signal energy. This is no longer true in the presence of feedback delay. We derive closed-form expressions of the average BER for this case assuming QPSK and BPSK signaling. The results of the analysis are instrumental for comparing closed-loop with open-loop schemes under given operating conditions. In particular, we demonstrate that, for a given transmitted energy and number of transmit antennas, open-loop outperforms closed-loop at sufficiently fast channel fading. We also show that, for a given transmitted signal energy and fading rate, closed-loop outperforms open-loop for sufficiently large numbers of transmit antennas while the total average transmitted signal energy is kept constant. For some special cases, closed-form expressions for the fading rate at which the performance of open-loop is equal to closed-loop are obtained.
What determines host range in parasitoids? An analysis of a tachinid parasitoid community

Despite the vast diversity of parasitic insects and their importance in natural and agricultural communities, our knowledge of what determines their patterns of association with hosts remains sparse. Unlike most parasites that tend to be specialized, parasitoid flies in the family Tachinidae exhibit a broad spectrum of host-specificity, with many species attacking a wide range of hosts. This variability in host-specificity makes them a useful model for examining the ecological and historical factors that determine host associations. We analyzed data collected from a 5-year rearing program of Lepidoptera in southern Arizona to investigate the factors that influence tachinid-host associations. After controlling for a strong effect of sample size, a significant portion of the remaining variance in host range was explained by differences among phylogenetic groups of tachinids and/or their correlated reproductive strategies. Relatively specialized tachinids tended to be associated with monophagous or narrowly oligophagous hosts and attacked them at relatively high frequencies, a pattern we suggest is related to host location efficiency. Cluster analysis indicated that host abundance, gregariousness, food-plant type, and morphology are all important determinants of tachinid host use. Little concordance was found between how tachinid species cluster according to characteristics of their hosts and their estimated phylogenetic relationships. Together, the results of this study suggest that ecological factors are important determinants of host use in these parasitoids and although phylogenetic history may influence the range of hosts used, its power to explain the ecological or taxonomic character of hosts used appears limited.
THE SEARCH FOR FAMILY: ADOLESCENT MALES' MOTIVES FOR JOINING GANGS

The majority of research on adolescent gangs has focused on delineating the correlates of gang membership. This research provides important insight into who joins gangs; however, it tells us little about why adolescents join gangs. The present endeavor utilized a free response survey to investigate the motives or reasons that adolescent males have for initially entering a gang . Participants were recruited from a residential treatment facility for adolescent male wards of the state of Michigan. The reasons most cited for joining a gang included 1) gain a second or surrogate family, 2) power, 3) acceptance, and 4) excitement/fun. Contrary to expectations, few participants stated that peer pressure or influence played a role in their decision to join a gang; rather, a desire for a close, familial relationship and for acceptance from others (specifically, other gang members) seemed to be the primary reasons these young men entered gangs.
Enterprise Risk Management in Financial Crisis

There is an ongoing debate on the value of Enterprise Risk Management (ERM), a new comprehensive method of handling risk. This paper seeks to address this issue by examining whether ERM helps property and casualty insurers withstand financial crisis. An investigation of a sample of publicly traded US insurance companies during the recent financial turmoil reveals that not all ERM programs are beneficial. While insurers with well-designed ERM programs outperformed the market, ineffective programs resulted in below-market performance. It was also found that quality ERM insurers had lower stock volatility and higher profitability as compared to those of their non-ERM or weak ERM peers. The worst overall operating ratio was reported by companies with weak ERM programs.
Histochemical demonstration of sites of phosphamidase activity.

SummaryA histochemical method for the demonstration of sites of phosphamidase activity is described. Small amounts of the enzyme are present in many normal tissues; large amounts are found in the grey matter of the central nervous system and in malignant epithelial tumors.
Evaluation of Multisite Polypyridyl Ligands as Platforms for the Synthesis of Rh/Zn, Rh/Pd, and Rh/Pt Heterometallic Complexes

Ligands containing linked dipicolylamine (dpa) and bipyridine (bpy) sites have been utilized in the synthesis of monometallic and heterometallic complexes. The two sites have different selectivities for metal binding, which allows preferential formation of singly metalated complexes. The dpa site of the ligands has been observed to bind selectively to Zn2+, Pd2+, and Pt2+, while the bpy site binds selectively to Rh+. Addition of a second metal then results in the formation of heterometallic products. In the presence of CD3OD, the heterometallic Rh/Pt and Rh/Pd complexes undergo rapid selective H/D exchange of one of the diastereotopic protons of the dpa methylene group.
Fracture Care Challenges in Austere and Combat Environments

Management of fractures in austere environments creates significant challenges for the treating physician. Significant limitations in resources and personnel, limited or no local national health care systems, feasibility of arranging follow-up care, and adjusting to local medical standards of care all influence decision making and appropriate treatment options. In addition, ensuring the safety of medical providers and staff can influence ability to render care in hostile and dangerous environments. Early and appropriate use of antibiotics, maximizing wound care options, determining the appropriate type of fracture fixation methods, and contributing to life-saving interventions while optimizing limb function are the hallmarks of fracture care in austere and wartime conditions.
Semi-automatic generation of cloze question distractors effect of students' L1.

We describe a method to semi-automatically generate incorrect choices, or distractors, for cloze (fill-in-the-blank) questions. We generated distractors aimed at revealing what type of misunderstanding a student was having. English as a Second Language learners answered a series of cloze questions that presented distractors generated by our method. We analyzed their answers in order to see how native languages influence the type of distractor that is chosen. With this preliminary study, we intend to further individualize the use of an intelligent tutoring system for vocabulary learning.
Effect of Outlet Obstruction on 3H-Thymidine Uptake: A Biochemical and Radioautographic Study

AbstractExperimental outlet obstruction in the rabbit is characterized by a rapid and substantial increase in urinary bladder mass. Although it is clear that both the smooth muscle and connective tissue compartments are increasing in mass, there is little information on the mechanisms by which this increase in mass occurs. As an initial investigation in this process, urinary bladders from normal and obstructed NZW rabbits were exposed in vitro to tritiated thymidine (3H-TdR) in order to determine which populations of cells are induced to synthesize DNA following outlet obstruction, and when, after obstruction, such synthesis occurs.Biochemical analysis of nucleic acids was performed on each specimen to determine total and radioactive DNA. These analyses showed a marked increase in DNA synthesis at 24 hours following obstruction which remained relatively high through seven days after obstruction. There was a decline in labelling at 14 days. Incorporation of radioactive label peaked at three days and declin...
Reframing the ‘securitization of public health’: a critical race perspective on post-9/11 bioterrorism preparedness in the US

AbstractThis paper builds on the work of critical health scholars and practitioners who have examined the ‘securitization’ of public health in the US during the post-9/11 period. Adopting a critical race perspective, I delve more deeply into the racialized dimensions of this securitization, analyzing how the emergence of a bioterror-framed view of disease has mobilized a disease-terror imaginary comprised of longstanding suspicion towards bodies of color coupled with more recent anti-Arab and anti-Muslim sentiment. I demonstrate that the incorporation of the central figure of this imaginary – the bioterrorist – into US public health discourse has reconfigured ideas about disease carriers as potentially violent and malicious, in turn reconfiguring approaches to disease control that rely on suspicion and securitized health surveillance. US public health adoption of this orientation towards disease control has, I argue, the potential to exacerbate targeting, stigma, and exclusionary practices towards individ...
TU-FG-BRB-01: Dual Energy CT Proton Stopping Power Ratio Calibration and Validation with Animal Tissues

Purpose: The conversion of Hounsfield Unit (HU) to proton stopping power ratio (SPR) is a main source of uncertainty in proton therapy. In this study, the SPRs of animal tissues were measured and compared with prediction from dual energy CT (DECT) and single energy CT (SECT) calibrations. Methods: A stoichiometric calibration method for DECT was applied to predict the SPR using CT images acquired at 80 kVp and 140 kVp. The dual energy index was derived based on the HUs of the paired spectral images and used to calculate the SPRs of the materials. Tissue surrogates with known chemical compositions were used for calibration, and animal tissues (pig brain, liver, kidney; veal shank, muscle) were used for validation. The materials were irradiated with proton pencil beams, and SPRs were deduced from the residual proton range measured using a multi-layer ion chamber device. In addition, Gafchromic EBT3 films were used to measure the distal dose profiles after irradiation through the tissue samples and compared with those calculated by the treatment planning system using both DECT and SECT predicted SPRs. Results: The differences in SPR between DECT prediction and measurement were −0.31±0.36% for bone, 0.47±0.42% for brain, 0.67±0.15% for liver, 0.51±0.52% for kidney, and −0.96±0.15% for muscle. The corresponding results using SECT were 3.1±0.12%, 1.90±0.45%, −0.66±0.11%, 2.33±0.21%, and −1.70±0.17%. In the film measurements, average distances between film and calculated distal dose profiles were 0.35±0.12 mm for DECT calibration and −1.22±0.12 mm for SECT calibration for a beam with a range of 15.79 cm. Conclusion: Our study indicates that DECT is superior to SECT for proton SPR prediction and has the potential to reduce the range uncertainty to less than 2%. DECT may permit the use of tighter distal and proximal range uncertainty margins for treatment, thereby increasing the precision of proton therapy.
The Determinants of United States Foreign Economic Policy

It has been said that the United States is important to the world; the world is not particularly important to the United States. This is the simple consequence of the United States being a large and rich country. Its ramifications go far to determine United States policies. They also determine the automatic responses of the United States economy to the rest of the world, quite aside from discretionary policy decisions.
A field programmable gate array media player for realmedia files

This paper discusses ongoing research into the design and development of custom configurable hardware for use with file formats that to date require special software for access, with the goal of improved system performance and flexibility. In particular, a field programmable gate array media player is introduced for use with RealMedia files. Preliminary results are promising, and the successful completion of this research will lead to the study and design of many more of these types of systems devices.
The Influence of Cognitive Load on Nonverbal Accuracy of Caucasian and African-American Targets: Implications for Ad Processing

ABSTRACTThis article examines the influence of cognitively taxing consumers and their recognition of emotional nonverbal cues (e.g., happiness) presented in static images. Participants were randomly assigned to either a cognitive load (or no load) condition and then completed a standardized nonverbal accuracy test (judging emotional facial expressions). Building on research that suggests that ethnic majority and ethnic minority consumers may process ads differently, participants were randomly assigned to a nonverbal accuracy test that included facial expressions of either African-American or Caucasian targets. Our work demonstrates that cognitive load hinders Caucasian perceivers’ performance on African-American tests of nonverbal accuracy, but cognitive load does not always negatively influence accuracy on Caucasian tests of nonverbal accuracy. Thus, impact of the proximal state of cognitive load on nonverbal accuracy is dependent upon the race of the perceptual target. This has potential implications in...
Decision support system (DSS) use and decision performance: DSS motivation and its antecedents

Abstract We developed an experimental decision support system (DSS) that enabled us to manipulate DSS performance feedback and response time, measure task motivation and DSS motivation, track the usage of the DSS, and obtain essential information for assessing decision performance through conjoint analysis. The results suggest the mediating role of DSS use in the relationship between DSS motivation and decision performance. Further, DSS motivation is highest in the presence of high task motivation, more positive DSS performance feedback, and fast DSS response time. The findings have important implications for both DSS research and practice.
Sums of quadratic functions with two discriminants

Abstract In a 1999 paper, Zagier discusses a construction of a function F k , D ( x ) defined for an even integer k ≥ 2 , and a positive discriminant D. This construction is intimately related to half-integral weight modular forms. In particular, the average value of this function is a constant multiple of the D-th Fourier coefficient of weight k + 1 / 2 Eisenstein series constructed by H. Cohen. In this note we consider a construction which works both for even and odd positive integers k. Our function F k , D , d ( x ) depends on two discriminants d and D with signs sgn ( d ) = sgn ( D ) = ( − 1 ) k , degenerates to Zagier's function when d = 1 , namely, F k , D , 1 ( x ) = F k , D ( x ) , and has very similar properties. In particular, we prove that the average value of F k , D , d ( x ) is again a Fourier coefficient of H. Cohen's Eisenstein series of weight k + 1 / 2 , while now the integer k ≥ 2 is allowed to be both even and odd.
Optimization of Surface Passivation for InAs-GaSb Infrared Photodetector

A type II indium arsenide / gallium antimonide (InAs-GaSb) strained layer superlattice (SLS) semiconductor is optimal for detecting long wavelength infrared (LWIR) signals for infrared imaging applications. However, as with all crystal structures dangling bonds at the surface of the semiconductor must be pacified with a passivant to maintain the integrity of the semiconductor. We report the most effective passivation layer for this III-V semiconductor by examining both the material and device characteristics of the devices pacified by silicon dioxide (SiO 2 ), silicon nitride (Si x N y ), and zinc sulfide (ZnS). Our final reporting shows ZnS with a pre-passivation of ammonium sulfide ((NH 4 ) 2 S) as being the most effective passivant.
Impact of the vertical dynamics on the thermosphere at low and middle latitudes: GITM simulations

In this study, the influences of the electric fields at low and middle latitudes on the ionosphere and thermosphere are investigated by using the non-hydrostatic Global Ionosphere and Thermosphere Model (GITM). The equatorial ionization anomaly (EIA) and the equatorial thermosphere anomaly (ETA) are well reproduced in the simulation when the electric fields are included. The term analysis of the continuity equation of the neutral mass density shows that the daytime upward vertical wind near the geomagnetic equator tends to increase the local neutral mass density at 400 km altitude, while the divergence in the meridional wind associated with the meridional ion-drag force tends to transport the neutral mass density away from the geomagnetic equator which might contribute to the formation of the ETA trough. The vertical dynamics is modulated by the vertical forces including ion-drag force and pressure gradient force acting on the neutrals, and the changing vertical dynamics can also feedback to vertical ion-drag and pressure gradient forces, particularly near the geomagnetic equator. The daytime vertical ion-drag force near the geomagnetic equator is generally upward while the daytime vertical pressure gradient force near the geomagnetic equator is reduced at most times after adding in the electric fields at low and middle latitudes. Meanwhile, the sudden introduction of the electric fields at low and middle latitudes induces an acoustic wave.
Potential high-Tc superconducting lanthanum and yttrium hydrides at high pressure.

A systematic structure search in the La–H and Y–H systems under pressure reveals some hydrogen-rich structures with intriguing electronic properties. For example, LaH10 is found to adopt a sodalite-like face-centered cubic (fcc) structure, stable above 200 GPa, and LaH8 a C2/m space group structure. Phonon calculations indicate both are dynamically stable; electron phonon calculations coupled to Bardeen–Cooper–Schrieffer (BCS) arguments indicate they might be high-Tc superconductors. In particular, the superconducting transition temperature Tc calculated for LaH10 is 274–286 K at 210 GPa. Similar calculations for the Y–H system predict stability of the sodalite-like fcc YH10 and a Tc above room temperature, reaching 305–326 K at 250 GPa. The study suggests that dense hydrides consisting of these and related hydrogen polyhedral networks may represent new classes of potential very high-temperature superconductors.
Ocean Surface Wind and Stress

Ocean surface wind and stress are defined and their significances are summarized. The traditional method of deriving stress from wind and its deficiencies are reviewed. We give our perspective of the scatterometer as the most established wind vector sensor. We summarized the principles of scatterometry and list the space scatterometer missions. Scatterometer’s unique stress-measuring capability allows us to reveal that the ocean exerts less drag to inhibit intensification of tropical cyclone, and the tropical cyclone causes less ocean mixing as previously expected. The capability also confirms that the circulation and temperature induced turbulence over mesoscale eddies change ocean stress, and the feedback include the spin-down the ocean eddies and formation of stress divergence and vorticity centers in the downwind and crosswind directions, respectively.
Residual Sleep Problems Predict Reduced Response to Prolonged Exposure among Veterans with PTSD.

While evidence-based treatments exist for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a significant sub-set of veterans continue to meet criteria for PTSD after treatment. Sleep problems may affect treatment retention and predict efficacy for PTSD treatments. The present study used data from a clinical trial of Prolonged Exposure therapy (PE) administered to veterans (N=154) to evaluate whether residual sleep symptoms remained after treatment completion, and if so, whether these residual sleep symptoms were associated with higher levels of PTSD and comorbid depression at the end of treatment. Participants (ages 20 to 75 years old; 35.7% Black; 54.5% married) completed demographic questions, symptom assessments, and engagement-related surveys. Hierarchical multiple linear regression models demonstrated that changes in sleep were significant predictors of PTSD and depression symptom reduction above and beyond the influence of demographic and engagement factors (e.g., therapy satisfaction). Greater residual sleep symptoms were predictive of smaller treatment gains. Findings illustrate the potential significance of sleep during the course of PTSD treatment, leading to several important clinical assessment and treatment implications.
Deficient DNA Repair, an Early Step in Neoplastic Transformation of Human Cells in Culture

The following three factors appear to be necessary for the malignant neoplastic transformation of normal cells in culture or in vivo: 1) DNA damage, 2) deficient DNA repair during G2 phase of the cell cycle and 3) a continued proliferative stimulus from activation of protooncogenes or loss of suppressor genes. Continued cell proliferation alone leads to hyperplasia and benign growths. Deficient repair of DNA damage provides the genomic instability that can result in production of new genetic variants characterizing malignant neoplasia.
Optimization of transcostal phased-array refocusing using iterative sparse semidefinite relaxation method

High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (RIFU) is a means of noninvasively treating cancer by focusing an array of ultrasound transducers onto a focal tumor. The use of large transducer arrays allows for a high focal power deposition, without necessitating undue heating in the intermediary tissue between the transducer array and the target. However, organs that are directly obscured by the ribs present a challenge for HIFU treatment. The ribs distort the ultrasound waves, while also absorbing their energy, causing them to heat and potentially burn the surrounding tissue. As a result of the ribs' presence, the effectiveness of HIFU treatments is limited.
Antimicrobial Peptide Resistance Mechanism Contributes to Staphylococcus aureus Infection

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) constitute an important part of innate host defense. Possibly limiting the therapeutic potential of AMPs is the fact that bacteria have developed AMP resistance mechanisms during their co-evolution with humans. However, there is no direct evidence that AMP resistance per se is important during an infection. Here we show that the Staphylococcus aureus Pmt ABC transporter defends the bacteria from killing by important human AMPs and elimination by human neutrophils. By showing that Pmt contributes to virulence during skin infection in an AMP-dependent manner, we provide evidence that AMP resistance plays a key role in bacterial infection.
Photonuclear physics in radiation transport. I: Cross sections and spectra

This paper describes model calculations and nuclear data evaluations of photonuclear reactions on isotopes of C, O, Al, Si, Ca, Fe, Cu, Ta, W, and Pb for incident photon energies up to 150 MeV. The...
Cashew nut allergy in Singaporean children.

Background There has been an increasing trend of nut allergies in Singapore. Objective The aim of this study was to review the clinical characteristics of children with cashew nut allergy. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted in a tertiary paediatric referral centre in Singapore from 2008 to 2015. A total of 99 subjects with positive specific IgE (≥0.35 IU/L) to cashew nut were identified. Clinical features including demographics, clinical reaction to cashew nut, associations with other nuts and test specific measurements were recorded. Results The results showed that cutaneous symptoms (71.2%) were the most common allergic manifestations. Anaphylaxis occurred in 3.8% of children. In addition, all cashew nut allergic subjects were cross-reactive (either sensitized or allergic) to pistachio. Cross-reactivity rate with peanuts was 53.8%. There was a strong prevalence of atopy among cashew nut allergic subjects. Conclusion In conclusion, cashew nut allergy is a significant tree nut allergy in Singapore.
Environmental education in Latin American and the Caribbean: the challenges and limitations of conducting a systematic review of evaluation and research

AbstractThis systematic review extends the boundary of prior reviews in the environmental education (EE) field by analyzing publications focused on Latin America and the Caribbean (LATAM). We exami...
The Design, Experimental Laboratory Testing and Implementation of a Large, Multi-Market, Policy Constrained, State Gaming Machines Auction

The paper reports on the theory, design, laboratory experimental testing, field implementation and results of a large, multiple market and policy constrained auction. The auction involved the sale of 18,788 ten-year entitlements for the use of electronic gaming machines in 176 interconnected markets to 363 potential buyers representing licensed gaming establishments. The auction was conducted in one day and produced over $600M in revenue. The experiments and revealed dynamics of the multi-round auction provide evidence about basic principles of multiple market convergence found in classical theories of general equilibrium using new statistical tests of the abstract properties of tatonnement.
Punitive Attitudes Toward Individuals Convicted of Sex Offenses: A Vignette Study

The public holds stereotypical beliefs about sex crimes, its perpetrators, and its victims, which may influence punitive attitudes toward individuals convicted of sex offenses (ICSOs). Using a nati...
Technology and rehabilitation training for community health workers: Strengthening health systems in Malawi.

Community health workers (CHWs) have been effectively utilised in resource-limited settings to combat a growing demand for health access that cannot be met by the current workforce. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a CHW training programme in Malawi that integrated technology into rehabilitation care delivery. This was a retrospective cross-sectional study of a training programme conducted in December 2018. The participants were a convenience sample of all active home-based palliative care CHWs at St. Gabriel's Hospital (n = 60). The data collected included the following: a written pre- and post-knowledge test, skills competency checklist and a post-training programme survey. Descriptive frequencies described skill competency and quantitative responses from the post-training programme survey. Paired t test (α = 0.05) analysis determined the significance of knowledge acquisition. Themes in the narrative responses in the post-training survey were identified. Both training programme groups showed significantly greater knowledge on the post-test (M = 9.50, SD = 0.861; M = 9.43, SD = 0.971) compared to the pre-test (M = 7.97, SD = 1.351; M = 7.90, SD = 1.900); t(29) = 6.565, p < .001; t(29) = 4.104, p < .001 for Group 1 and Group 2, respectively. All participants demonstrated skill competency in 100% of the skills. All participants responded that the training programme helped them review skills and understand how to use technology 'A lot' on a Likert scale (no, a little, some, a lot). Facilitators of their work included training programmes, phones, communication with the hospital and collaboration amongst CHWs. Barriers included transportation needs, lack of patient care supplies and lack of caregiver compliance. Overall, utilisation of their knowledge and skills from the training programmes helped their patients make improvements in mobility and function that are meaningful to their quality of life in the village. This study highlights the importance of assessing programmes in low-resource settings with a focus on feasibility and developing local capacity.
Urban Trees in Times of Crisis: Palliatives, Mitigators, and Resources

Trees have been integral to cities for centuries. Their tangible and intangible benefits for human and environmental systems are particularly evident in times of crisis. As cities grow and adapt to climate change, historical, scientific, and practical expertise are needed to ensure equal access to urban trees and their benefits.
Changes in surgical practice by surgical residents and consultants during COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional survey

Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, surgical practice is greatly changed as a strategy to prevent infection to the health care workers. This study was done to see what changes have been made in the surgical practice by the surgical consultants and residents in various surgical disciplines. Methods: A Survey form was developed on the “Google Forms” application and distributed to surgical consultants and residents. The submission was received online during May 2020. The collected data were entered and analyzed using SPSS V.23. Qualitative data were presented as frequencies and percentages. Quantitative data were presented as mean and standard deviation. Results: Overall, 272 consultants and residents from 45 teaching hospitals from Pakistan and around the world participated in the survey. Among the participants, 100 (36.8%) were surgical consultants and 172 (63.2%) were surgical residents. About 42% of participants were not performing elective surgeries during this pandemic of COVID-19 but almost all participants were performing emergency surgeries (93%). Over 60% of the respondents admitted that their practice is either reduced to more than 50% or completely shut down during this pandemic. Over 80% stated that their training activities were compromised due to the pandemic. Conclusion: COVID-19 pandemic has greatly affected surgical practice both in the public and corporate sectors. Elective surgeries are affected the most in addition to the suspension of training activities of the residents.
The Effects of Economic Freedom, Regulatory Quality, and Taxation on the Level of Per Capita Real Income: a Preliminary Analysis for OECD Nations and Non-G8 OECD Nations

This study of the impact of economic freedom, regulatory quality, and the relative burden of taxation on the level of per capita real income/GDP among OECD nations over the 2003-2007 period adopts a modified version of the overall economic freedom index computed by The Heritage Foundation (2013), one with the fiscal freedom and business freedom indices removed. This study then provides PLS fixed effects estimates for five linear specifications/models. Each nation during this time frame can be regarded either as a nation per se or as a de facto “economic region” within the OECD. The analysis first focuses upon all of the OECD nations and then, as a robustness test, subsequently focuses only on non-G8 OECD member nations. The estimations in this study all provide strong empirical support for the three central hypotheses proffered here, namely: (1) the higher the overall degree of economic freedom; the higher the per capita real income (GDP) level; (2) the higher the level of regulatory quality, the higher the level of per capita real income (GDP); and (3) the higher the overall tax burden, expressed as a percent of GDP, the lower is the level of per capita real income (GDP).