cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of Platelet Transfusions from HL-A Compatible Unrelated Donors to Alloimmunized Patients

Transfusion support of thrombocytopenic patients with platelet concentrates has considerably reduced the incidence of life-threatening bleeding complications (Djerassi et al., 1963; Alvarado et al., 1965; Freireich, 1966; Han et al., 1966; Cavins et al., 1968). However, alloimmunization to random donor platelet antigens with resultant refractoriness to platelet transfusions regularly develops in polytransfused patients, which makes effective long-term platelet support difficult (Baldini et al., 1961; Shulman, 1966; Grumet and Yankee, 1970). In these situations, platelets obtained from siblings genotypically identical for their lymphocyte HL-A antigens resulted in post transfusion increments normally found only in non alloimmunized individuals (Grumet and Yankee, 1970; Yankee et al., 1969). This has been interpreted as evidence that the most important antigenic determinants for platelet compatibility are represented by or closely linked to the HL-A locus (the genetic locus coding for the major human transplantation antigen system). Although the few defined platelet-specific non-HL-A antigens may lead to the development of alloantibodies, they are an uncommon cause of alloimmunization (Svejgaard, 1969; Adner et al., 1969) since these antigens are shared by a high percentage of the population (Shulman et al., 1964; Dausset and Tangun, 1965).
Analysis and visualization of subjectivity and polarity of Twitter location data

Increased use of Twitter by a large number of users has resulted in an unprecedented growth in the generation of user created data. This data is now being analyzed in various areas of research including that of user sentiment and behavior analysis during general elections. Rise in the use of Twitter for electoral campaigning has increased interest of researchers in this area. However while studies have utilized factors such as sentiment and frequency of tweets to evaluate candidate favorability, little research has been conducted in analyzing Twitter location data. This paper makes two major contributions. First, it studies the subjectivity and polarity of Twitter data based on the location of the tweets. Findings from this research will enable further fine grained analysis of Twitter data by using the location variable, allowing for more accurate results of user sentiment and behavior analysis. Second, we present a web-based system which can enable in the collection of Twitter data, extraction of the location, perform data analysis and then to plot them on a maps for visualization. We employ US presidential election data of 2016 as a case study to test our research questions and to demonstrate our results utilizing this web-based system.
Ergodicity of Random Chains

In this chapter, we build the framework for the study of random averaging dynamics. We also introduce some of the central objects of this work such as infinite flow property and infinite flow graph.
SHOCK-WAVE PROPERTIES OF HIGH-STRENGTH CERAMICS

The shock and release response of a suite of high-strength ceramics has been investigated with controlled planar impact methods and velocity interferometry diagnostics. The study provides Hugoniot, yield and post-yield compressive strength, phase transformation and tensile spall material properties data for these ceramics.
Methylene blue and indocyanine green artifactually lower pulse oximetry readings of oxygen saturation. Studies in dogs.

The effects of fluorescein, methylene blue, and indocyanine green on hemodynamic variables and on pulse oximetry and co-oximetry measurements of arterial hemoglobin oxygen saturation (SaO2) and oxyhemoglobin percentage (% HbO2) were evaluated in 16 anesthetized dogs in vitro by cooximetry (% HbO2) and in vivo by pulse oximetry (SaO2). The light absorbance (optical density) in plasma (range 500 to 800 nm) was measured by a spectrophotometer. Fluorescein did not affect oximetry measurements, plasma light absorbance in the range measured, or hemodynamic variables. Methylene blue caused dose-dependent decreases in measurements made with both forms of oximetry for up to 30 minutes, the decrease being greater and longer lasting with pulse oximetry (P < 0.05). Hemodynamic measurements in 5 dogs showed that methylene blue (1 to 5 mg/kg) increased arterial pressure transiently, after which cardiac output, stroke index, and left ventricular stroke work index decreased and left ventricular end-diastolic pressure and systemic and pulmonary vascular resistances increased (P < 0.05 with 5 mg/kg). Methemoglobin concentration measured by co-oximetry increased significantly (to 19.9 ± 1.4%, P < 0.05) 1 minute after 5 mg/kg of methylene blue was injected. Methylene blue had a dose- and time-dependent effect on plasma light absorbance, and this effect peaked in the 660- to 670-nm range. The data do not distinguish the relative contributions of physiology (hemodynamic change), chemistry (methemoglobin production), and physics (optical properties) to the decrease in pulse oximetry and co-oximetry measurements that follows injection of methylene blue. Indocyanine green affected neither hemodynamic variables nor co-oximetry readings but decreased pulse oximetry readings for up to 10 minutes dose dependently. With doses of 0.1 to 3.0 mg/kg of indocyanine green plasma light absorbance peaked at 805 nm but increased dose dependently for up to 30 minutes at 660 nm. Methylene blue and indocyanine green (and, by implication, other dyes with plasma light absorbance peaks in the 600- to 1,000-nm range) artifactually alter oximetric detection of arterial hemoglobin oxygen saturation and oxyhemoglobin percentage.
Stock structure, dynamics, demographics, and movements of walleyes spawning in four tributaries to Green Bay

Abstract To test assumptions related to the current conceptual model for walleye Sander vitreus management in Green Bay, we evaluated whether: 1) spawning aggregations in the Fox, Menominee, Oconto, and Peshtigo rivers represent genetically distinct stocks; 2) population dynamics and demographics vary among walleye spawning at these locations; 3) walleye spawning in these rivers contribute to the fishery in northern Green Bay, and 4) walleye spawning in these rivers exhibit spawning site fidelity or if they stray among rivers. Genetic differentiation among the four tributaries was low and sex-specific total length (TL), mean TL at age 5, and age-class diversity were generally similar among rivers and observed differences were not consistent. Movements of walleye inferred from angler tag returns suggest that walleye spawning (and tagged) in the four tributaries typically remain within southern Green Bay; however, this assertion may be confounded by the distribution of angling effort that provides tag recoveries. Straying rates among rivers ranged from 0 to 23% and were likely sufficient to preclude genetic differentiation among stocks. Collectively, results suggest that walleye spawning in the Fox, Menominee, Oconto, and Peshtigo rivers do not function as separate stocks and do not significantly contribute to the fishery outside of southern Green Bay. The primary assumption of the current conceptual model that remains to be tested is whether the walleye fishery in southern Green Bay is supported primarily by fish spawning in these four rivers, or if there are substantial contributions from fish spawning at other unknown locations.
Percutaneous suction thrombectomy of large tumor thrombus causing massive pulmonary embolism.

Abstract We describe a patient who underwent a renal cell carcinoma resection with inferior vena cava thrombectomy complicated by tumor embolization. This resulted in massive pulmonary embolism requiring venous-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. The patient was ineligible for systemic or catheter-directed thrombolysis because of the recent surgical resection and postoperative hemorrhage. Hence, the patient underwent percutaneous suction thrombectomy with successful removal of the tumor thrombus and significant clinical improvement. This report represents a unique case of suction thrombectomy for the removal of tumor embolus from the pulmonary circulation and highlights the ability of suction thrombectomy in the management of massive pulmonary embolism.
Association of psychosocial factors with leukocyte telomere length among African Americans in the Jackson Heart Study

Leukocyte telomere length (LTL) is a biomarker of cellular aging. African Americans report more stress than other groups; however, the association of psychosocial stressors with biological aging among African Americans remains unclear. The current study evaluated the association of psychosocial factors (negative affect and stressors) with LTL in a large sample of African American men and women (n = 2,516) from the Jackson Heart Study. Using multivariable linear regression, we examined the sex-specific associations of psychosocial factors (cynical distrust, anger in and out, depressive symptoms, negative affect summary scores, global stress, weekly stress, major life events, and stress summary scores) with LTL. Model 1 adjusted for demographics and education. Model 2 adjusted for model 1, smoking, alcohol intake, physical activity, diabetes, hypertension, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein. Among women, high (vs. low) cynical distrust was associated with shorter mean LTL in model 1 (b = -0.12; p = 0.039). Additionally, high (vs. low) anger out and expressed negative affect summary scores were associated with shorter LTL among women after full adjustment (b = -0.13; p = 0.011; b = -0.12, p = 0.031, respectively). High levels of cynical distrust, anger out, and negative affect summary scores may be risk factors for shorter LTL, particularly among African-American women.
Learning from Transferable Mechanics Models: Generalizable Online Mode Detection in Underactuated Dexterous Manipulation

In this work, we investigate a mechanics-inspired framework for describing fingertip-based planar within-hand manipulation with an underactuated robotic gripper. In particular, this framework leverages fundamental mechanics properties of the hand-object system, including basic terms such as local contact curvature as well as more complex features including the grasp matrix and manipulability metrics. These are extracted using a simple visual approach and then in real-time used for predicting planar manipulation modes: namely rolling, dropped, stuck, and sliding. Given a desired cartesian motion for the object, a supervised learning model predicts these four manipulation modes before they occur, allowing us to either avoid or trigger these different behaviors. Since we utilize strictly fundamental properties of the grasp matrix, finger Jacobians, and contact curvatures, we are able to demonstrate prediction transferability between different grippers using our original classifier. In particular, a Random Forests classifier trained on one gripper successfully predicts manipulation modes for grippers with different fingers with 84% accuracy, compared to just 56% from an approach in previous work. Overall, we find that the features designed in our approach better describes fingertip manipulation when precise gripper models are not available.
The Contemporary Methodology for Quantifying Reserved Instream Flow Water Rights to Support Aquatic Habitat

This article is the first in a series to provide information related to commonly used technical methodologies in furtherance of legal rights held by American Indian Tribes. Specifically, this article discusses the method for estimating water rights necessary to protect instream habitat to support fish. Unlike reserved water rights for irrigation — which has the well settled practicably irrigable acreage (“PIA”) standard — the United States Supreme Court has not identified a single quantification methodology appropriate for traditional uses of water. Instead, lower courts have fashioned a more ad hoc approach to quantifying traditional reserved water rights. This seems preferable given that unlike irrigation water rights, which are fairly uniform in their nature, each tribe’s traditional uses of water are unique and driven by the physical, historical, and cultural factors present for each tribe. Although the method for quantifying these rights have evolved over time, courts have slowly converged on the Instream Flow Incremental Methodology ("IFIM") and its component part, the Physical Habitat Simulation Model (“PHABSIM”). Although the IFIM/PHABSIM method does not enjoy the de jure recognition of its sister-methodology PIA, the consistent use and acceptance of this method have caused it to become the de facto method for quantifying reserved instream water rights to protect fish habitat. The purpose of this article is to provide an explanation of the IFIM/PHABSIM methodology in an effort to put practitioners in the position to apply and, where necessary, critique the method. It proceeds in a chronological fashion; describing from beginning to end the steps necessary to develop a reserved instream water right claim using the IFIM/PHABSIM method.
Student Managed Investment Programs: Maximizing Learning Opportunities by Increasing Student Control

Student Managed Investment Programs (SMIPs) have been embraced by universities as a powerful learning experience. Although a large number of features have already been implemented by universities, SMIPs have potential for even greater educational benefits. In this paper, we argue students should be given increased control and responsibility for their SMIP to honor the intent of experiential learning and increase the breadth of their educational experience beyond direct money management. Maximizing the educational experience should be the design cornerstone, which can be accomplished through allowing complete student responsibility for the SMIP.
Economic Analysis of Cooperative Societies and Agricultural Productivity in Rural Households in Delta State, Nigeria

The primary objective of this research is to examine the contributions of co-operatives on rural household agricultural productivity. Multistage sampling was employed in the random selection of 120 co-operators and non-cooperators respectively. But only 115 co-operators and non-cooperators were utilized for the study. The active mean age of 42 years and married female rural households with secondary educational level obtained their sources of credit facilities from co-operatives. The study also revealed that most rural households with an increase in livestock and crop production obtained their sources of credit from co-operatives. The study also revealed that rural households have constraints in obtaining credits from conventional banks. The study recommends that government policies should be geared towards agricultural co-operatives to increase food productivity and food security. The study also recommends that the government should put enabling laws to enforce conventional banks to provide soft loans via rural households' co-operatives for their farming activities.
Cartography: visualization of geospatial data, 4th ed.: Kraak, Menno-Jan and Ferjan Ormeling, Boca Raton, FL, CRC Press, 2021, pp. xv, 220, GBP £79.99 (hardback & e-book), ISBN: 9-781138-613959

This is the 4th edition of a textbook, first published in 1996 with succeeding editions in 2003 and 2013, spanning a critical period of time when maps in large numbers began to be distributed throu...
Effects of Alcohol Sensitivity on Alcohol-Induced Blackouts and Passing Out: An Examination of the Alcohol Sensitivity Questionnaire among Underage Drinkers.

BACKGROUND: The role of alcohol sensitivity in the experience of blackout and passing out has not been well established. Here, we examined the relation between individual differences in alcohol sensitivity (i.e., numbers of drinks required to experience various effects of alcohol) and reports of blacking out and passing out in the past year. METHODS: Participants (925 healthy, underage college student drinkers) completed the Alcohol Sensitivity Questionnaire (ASQ) and reported on their past year blacking out and passing out experiences. RESULTS: The fit of the ASQ's two-factor structure was fair (CFI = 0.90, RMSEA = 0.09) in this sample of underage drinkers. In unadjusted models, higher ASQ scores (i.e., requiring more drinks to experience effects, indicating lower alcohol sensitivity) were associated with experiencing more blackouts (IRR = 1.68 [1.31 - 2.15]) and passing out (IRR = 2.25 [1.59 - 3.18]) in the past year. After controlling for typical consumption, however, higher ASQ scores were associated with fewer past year blackouts (IRR = 0.76 [0.60 - 0.98]). Total ASQ scores moderated the relationship between typical alcohol consumption and blackout occurrence (interaction IRR = 0.96 [0.93 - 0.98]), but not passing out occurrence (interaction IRR = 0.95 [0.89 - 1.01]), such that the quantity of alcohol consumed was more strongly associated with blackout occurrence among higher-sensitivity compared to lower-sensitivity drinkers. CONCLUSIONS: These findings are consistent with prior work suggesting that low sensitivity may act as a paradoxical risk factor for certain heavy drinking effects, contributing to higher levels of alcohol consumption and more frequent negative consequences while simultaneously conferring protection (relative to high-sensitivity peers) at a given level of alcohol exposure.
Fostering transfer of responsibility in the middle school PBL classroom: an investigation of soft scaffolding

Scaffolding is one of the critical features in a problem-based learning environment to address challenges associated with problem solving. While transfer of responsibility is considered as an ultimate goal in scaffolding that is adaptive and contingent, it is rarely studied and practiced. Thus, the purpose of this study was to inform a deeper understanding of one middle school teacher’s manner of soft scaffolding, which refers to just-in-time and contingent support, through teacher-student interaction to examine how transfer of responsibility was achieved. We investigated one middle school teacher’s forms of scaffolding during a problem of food systems and supply chains related multiple aspects of sustainability and social justice issues. Using conversation analysis, three discursive patterns in scaffolding emerged: (1) shifting patterns of turn-taking organization; (2) leaving room for the students to take responsibility by giving extended wait time; and (3) extending the discussion with different examples. The paper concludes with implications for PBL teachers and researchers.
18.1% single palladium atom catalysts on mesoporous covalent organic framework for gas phase hydrogenation of ethylene

Summary Noble metal single-atom catalysts maximize metal utilization and offer opportunities to design heterogeneous catalysts at the molecular scale. Mesoporous covalent organic frameworks provide an ideal support to stabilize metal single atoms with specific ligand configuration similar to a homogeneous catalyst. In this work, a high loading of single Pd atoms, 18.1 wt %, on mesoporous imine-linked covalent organic framework was synthesized, characterized, and evaluated for ethylene hydrogenation. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray absorption spectroscopy, and diffuse-reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy of adsorbed CO demonstrate that the Pd is atomically dispersed with a highly homogeneous local coordination. The Pd single atoms are active for hydrogenation of ethylene to ethane at room temperature. The study demonstrates that mesoporous COFs provide a large number of identical metal binding sites that are good candidates for immobilizing metal single atoms and their use in gas-phase catalytic applications.
A Mm-Wave Transmitter MIMO with Constellation Decomposition Array (CDA) for Keyless Physically Secured High-Throughput Links

Conventional phased array beamforming realizes spatial physical security but is effective only for large arrays, while most cryptographic algorithms require security key exchanges and pose large computation overhead and latency to handle Gbit/s throughput. We propose a Constellation-Decomposition Array (CDA) MIMO technique to achieve a highly secured yet keyless wireless link for low-element count arrays. The CDA MIMO spatially combines lower order QAMS, so that the high-order QAM is observed only in the target direction and shows large distortions in other directions. Temporal swapping of the decomposed CDA constellations among MIMO elements further enhances the security. The proposed scheme is demonstrated on an 8-element 25-34GHz TX MIMO array in 45nm CMOS SOI with on-pcb antennas. Over-the-air 4-elememt MIMO measurements achieve an information beamwidth of 5°/10° at upto 3Gbit/s by forming a 64QAM signal using three QPSKs or 16QAM/QPSK, respectively, demonstrating a mm-Wave wireless link with simultaneous security and high throughput.
Assessment of alternative radionuclides for use in a radioisotope thermoelectric generator

Abstract 238 Pu is the current fuel source for MMRTGs. This is due to favorable properties, such as high decay heat and low gamma emissions. 238 Pu supplies are dwindling rapidly, necessitating the review of potential replacement isotopes for deep space missions. This work considers nine potential replacements, Ac-227, Am-241, Cf-252, Cm-244, Cs-137, Po-210, Sr-90, Th-228, and Th-170. We have assessed performance of alternatives to 238 Pu by modeling the specific decay-heat and gamma spectra of several potential radioisotopes in SCALE-ORIGEN, and comparing these with 238 Pu . An analysis of heat output, heat stability, safety, availability and required mass, baselined against 238 Pu demonstrates that of those radioisotopes studied, 241 Am has properties that make it most conducive for 238 Pu replacement.
Descriptions of twelve new species of ochyroceratids (Araneae, Ochyroceratidae) from mainland Ecuador.

Twelve new species in three different genera from the spider family Ochyroceratidae are described from mainland Ecuador: Speocera bioforestae sp. n., Speocera violacea sp. n., Speocera musgo sp. n., Ochyrocera rinocerotos sp. n., Ochyrocera callaina sp. n., Ochyrocera italoi sp. n., Ochyrocera minotaure sp. n., Ochyrocera losrios sp. n., Ochyrocera zabaleta sp. n., Ochyrocera otonga sp. n., Ochyrocera cashcatotoras sp. n. and Psiloochyrocera tortilis sp. n. Speocera machadoi Gertsch 1977 is transferred to Ochyrocera .
Predicted probabilities for count models

The post-estimation command prcounts for generating predicted prob- abilities after using poisson, nbreg, zip ,a ndzinb is introduced and illustrated. 1 Overview Stata's poisson and nbreg commands estimate Poisson and negative binomial regres- sion models for count outcomes. zip and zinb estimate zero-inflated Poisson and neg- ative binomial models, which are useful when there are high frequencies of zero counts. After estimating a model using any of these four commands, our post-estimation com- mand prcounts may be used to generate predicted probabilities. prcounts generates new variables that contain the predicted rate, the probability of each count from 0 to a user-specified maximum, and the cumulative probabilities that a count is less than or equal to each count from 0 to a user-specified maximum. When the plot option is specified, prcounts will also generate variables for the graphical comparison of observed and expected counts.
SUMS OF RANGES OF OPERATORS AND APPLICATIONS

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses sums of ranges of operators and applications. It presents a Hilbert space H and two operators, A and B, on H with ranges R(A) and R(B) in H. In general, R(A) + R(B) is much larger than the range R(A + B) of the operator A + B. Brezis observed that R(A) + R(B) is almost equal to R(A + B), in the sense that Int[R(A) + R(B)] = Int R(A + B) and cl[R(A) + R(B)] = cl R(A + B), when both A and B are monotone operators and satisfied some additional conditions. The equality Int [R(A)+R(B)] = Int R(A + B) or, more generally, the inclusion Int[R(A) + R(B)] ⊂ R(A + B) gives a sufficient condition, on the right hand side f, for the solvability of the equation Au + Bu = f in H. This condition is analogous to the well-known Landesman–Lazer condition for the solvability of a nonlinear elliptic boundary value problem.
Rate Process Analysis of Thermal Damage

Kinetic models of thermal damage in tissues can be used to describe pathologic end points obtained with laser irradiation. Many treatment end-point goals involve relatively low temperature coagulation or desiccation of tissue, and these end points can be conveniently described by rate process models. Thermal damage is exponentially dependent on temperature and linearly dependent on time of exposure. Damage processes can be modeled as first-order rate processes for which two experimentally derived coefficients are sufficient. The rate process models apply well to the prediction of damage thresholds and less well as the damage becomes complete, since several of the fundamental assumptions are violated. In order to be useful in evaluating laser dosimetry, the kinetic model must be coupled to quantitative pathological analysis. This chapter describes quantitative markers of thermal damage and experimental methods for estimating relevant kinetic coefficients in both constant-temperature and transient thermal history experiments. As expected, transient in vivo thermal history data yield a noisy kinetic plot; however, estimates of the appropriate rate coefficients often can be made.
THE GOVERNANCE ROLE OF THE REMUNERATION COMMITTEE

Following the recent crises surrounding the international financial world, there has been a growth of requirements and regulations regarding the need for remuneration committees in an attempt to correct prior problems surrounding corporate governance. Recently, regulations have been evolving around this area of the corporate law; particularly, ever since such controversial cases as Walt Disney and scandals surrounding financial institutions, regulations have been developing internationally. Mostly, there have been recommendations regarding remuneration committees that addressing the structure of these committees and methods of evaluating remuneration policies. In terms of structure, these committees vary depending on jurisdiction. In some countries, remuneration matters are decided by a supervisory board. In others, matters of remuneration can be determined by shareholders. Aside from structural differences, various jurisdictions assign different duties to remuneration committees. These duties are assigned through law or through corporate guidelines. Duties include such tasks as setting remuneration values and overseeing corporate information, and members also have an implied duty of care and loyalty. Another area of concern for these committees is independence. Depending on the country, members can consist of independent directors or a majority of independent members. Arguments exist for either side on whether the committee should be entirely independent to avoid bias or to have some non-independent members to ensure adequate functioning. One issue that results from having an overly independent committee is in actually determining remuneration of directors: ensure a correlation between compensation and performance by understanding the functioning of the corporation. Furthermore, another issue linked to independence is the term timing between the remuneration committee and other corporate bodies — corporations must avoid restricting their committee to merely ratifying past decisions given this lag in timing. It is important to understand these issues as international regulations continue to develop and evolve within the next few months and years. While some jurisdictions are headed in the right direction, some regulations might be impeding on the effectiveness of remuneration committees, contrary to their ultimate goal.
Transcytosis of Bacterial Toxins across Mucosal Barriers

This chapter focuses on the biology and mechanisms of transcytosis for dIgA and IgG, and explains in detail the mechanism of transcytosis for cholera toxin. Reference is made to Shiga and Shiga-like enterotoxins that move across epithelial barriers by opportunistically exploiting similar mechanisms of vesicular transport Fcγ receptor (FcRn) is expressed in the polarized epithelial cells lining the intestine of adult humans. Cholera toxin (CT) binds a ganglioside receptor on the apical cell surface, enters the intestinal cell by non-clathrin-mediated endocytosis, and then moves retrograde into Golgi cisternae and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to enter the cytoplasm and induce disease. To induce disease, CT must move from the cell surface into the endosome and then retrograde into the ER. To distinguish the transcytotic pathway that involves transit through the Golgi apparatus from that defined by transcytosis of the pIgR and the FcRn, the authors have termed the process of CT trafficking across epithelial cells as indirect transcytosis. It is well documented that CT and LTI represent the most potent mucosal immunogens and adjuvants recognized to date. Such efficiency in eliciting inductive immunity after application to mucosal surfaces, not seen with other ingested proteins of comparable size, implies that CT exhibits an ability to encounter and perhaps act on antigen-presenting cells of the mucosal immune system. Transcytosis of both dIgA and IgG depends on sorting motifs embedded within the protein structures of the pIgR and the FcRn.
When the swimming gets tough, the tough form a biofilm

Summary Bacteria live either as independent planktonic cells or as members of surface-attached communities called biofilms. Motility and biofilm development are mutually exclusive events, and control of the phase of this ‘swim-or-stick’ switch involves the ability of the bacterium to sense and respond appropriately to a surface. Cairns et al. (2013) report that the Bacillus subtilis flagellum functions in surface-sensing. Using mutants of B. subtilis that prevent flagellum rotation, they measured the expression and activity of DegU, the response regulator of the two-component DegS–DegU circuit. DegU activity and degU transcription increased when flagellum rotation was prevented, and were dependent on the DegS kinase. Inhibiting flagellar rotation by overexpressing the EpsE flagellar ‘clutch’ or addition of anti-flagellin antiserum also increased degU transcription and activity. These results suggest B. subtilis senses restriction of flagellum rotation as the cell nears a surface. Inhibition of the flagellum activates the DegS–DegU circuit to turn on biofilm formation, i.e. the flagellum is acting as a mechanosensor of surfaces. B. subtilis joins an ever-expanding group of bacteria, including species of Vibrio, Proteus and Caulobacter that use the flagellum as a surface sensor.
Meiosis in male Drosophila melanogaster. II. Nonrandom segregation of compound-second chromosomes.

The segregation of compound-second chromosomes in males from two different stocks has been examined. Segregation is random in males from the C(2L)RM4, dp; C(2R)RM4, px stock. Gametes containing only one of the two compound chromosomes comprise 50% of the gametes, and gametes containing either both elements or neither element make up the other 50% of the gametes.——In males from the C(2L)RM, b; C(2R)RM, cn stock, gametes containing either C(2L)RM, b or C(2R)RM, cn make up the majority of the gametes. Gametes containing both chromosomes or neither chromosome account for only 2-3% of the gametes. The nonrandom segregation is due to the C(2R)RM, cn chromosome.——Viability is reduced in flies carrying the C(2R)RM, cn chromosome. This includes larval lethality, delayed development and premature adult lethality. Cytologically, this chromosome contains a large duplication of 2L material, which includes material proximal to region 38 or 39. It is suggested that the viability and segregational properties associated with this chromosome are due to the duplicated 2L material.
Evaluating the Evidence Base for Cognitive Strategy Instruction and Mathematical Problem Solving

This review considers both the content and methodologies of 5 single-subject and 2 group experimental design studies investigating the effects of cognitive strategy instruction on the mathematical problem solving of students with disabilities, using quality indicators proposed by Horner et al. (2005) and Gersten et al. (2005). Findings indicated that the research base of both single-subject and group experimental studies did not meet the methodological criteria to support cognitive strategy instruction as an evidence-based practice for improving mathematical problem solving of students with disabilities. The shortcomings identified in the empirical literature supporting cognitive strategy instruction, however, can be addressed in future intervention studies bearing in mind the quality indicators and standards for determining evidence-based practices.
A note on determining pure-strategy equilibrium points of bimatrix games

Abstract In this note, we present a linear-time algorithm for determining pure-strategy equilibrium points of bimatrix games. In addition, we show that three mathematical programs are linear-time solvable.
On fuzzy idempotent matrices of T -type

Abstract We study fuzzy idempotent matrices. We define a fuzzy idempotent matrix of T -type and prove that the adjoint matrix of a fuzzy idempotent matrix of T -type is ant idempotent.
Preparing novice teachers to develop basic reading and spelling skills in children

This study examined the word-structure knowledge of novice teachers and the progress of children tutored by a subgroup of the teachers. Teachers’ word-structure knowledge was assessed using three tasks: graphophonemic segmentation, classification of pseudowords by syllable type, and classification of real words as phonetically regular or irregular. Tutored children were assessed on several measures of basic reading and spelling skills. Novice teachers who received word-structure instruction outperformed a comparison group of teachers in word-structure knowledge at post-test. Tutored children improved significantly from pre-test to post-test on all assessments. Teachers’ post-test knowledge on the graphophonemic segmentation and irregular words tasks correlated significantly with tutored children’s progress in decoding phonetically regular words; error analyses indicated links between teachers’ patterns of word-structure knowledge and children’s patterns of decoding progress. The study suggests that word-structure knowledge is important to effective teaching of word decoding and underscores the need to include this information in teacher preparation.
An approach to the variability of urban surface energy budgets under stratified synoptic weather types

A simulation-based method for examining the response of urban canyon energy budgets to stratified synoptic weather types is outlined and briefly illustrated. The approach contains three steps: (1) an objective grouping procedure consisting of a principal components analysis of sixteen climatic variables followed by a cluster analysis of the resulting component scores is applied to the Boston, Massachusetts Typical Meteorological Year data set to group each day into a limited number of synoptic weather types; (2) a characteristic day is identified for each weather type based upon a minimized sum-of-squares criterion; (3) the URBAN3 numerical model is used to simulate the surface energy budget of a standard urban canyon for each of the synoptic weather types. Results illustrate the response of urban canyon surface energetic patterns to stratified synoptic weather types. The objective grouping procedure utilized should be applicable to a wide variety of computer modelling applications involving complete daily climatic data sets.
Apparent cooperativity in radioimmunoassay of human chorionic gonadotropin.

Eight of 11 guinea pig antisera to human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) examined in radioimmunoassay showed enhanced binding of labeled hCG after addition of small increments of unlabeled hCG. Gel chromatography of one antiserum revealed that this effect was attributable to antibodies on the 7S class. Mild papain digestion of the anti—hCG produced a modified antibody, possibly divalent F(ab)2, which showed enhanced binding and univalent Fab, which did not. These data indicated that the effect was related to the multivalence of antibodies, and tended to exclude a variety of other possible explanations. Various binding analyses suggested that the data were consistent with positive cooperativity between the two combining sites of a small population of antibodies. However, it is not clear whether the apparent cooperativity of the multivalent antibodies results from allosterism, or is related to another mechanism of enhanced binding. (Endocrinology 92: 1250, 1973)
VEPTR to treat nonsyndromic congenital scoliosis: A multicenter, mid-term follow-up study

Background Traditional surgical management of multiple congenital vertebral anomalies in young children, including fusion in situ and hemiepiphyseodesis, do not promote spinal growth nor address the associated thoracic insufficiency syndrome. We hypothesize that vertical expandable prosthetic titanium rib (VEPTR) with expansion thoracoplasty may control spinal deformity, allow spinal growth, and address thoracic insufficiency syndrome in children with nonsyndromic complex congenital spinal deformities. Methods Eight pediatric spine centers prospectively entered clinical and radiographic data into a database on every congenital spinal deformity treated with VEPTR as part of an Food and Drug Administration study. We retrospectively reviewed these data and excluded patients with spina bifida, Jarcho-Levin, or other syndromes. Data analysis focused on surgical technique and expansion frequency, change in Cobb angle and thoracic heights, and adverse events for a consecutive series of patients with at least 2 years of follow-up. Results Twenty-four children with an average age at surgery of 3.3 years (range, 1.0 to 12.5 y) were treated with VEPTR insertion and expansion thoracostomy and were followed for an average of 40.7 months (range, 25 to 78 mo). Twenty-three (95.8%) had associated rib fusions. All patients had subsequent expansion surgery; 50% had 5 or more expansions. Twenty patients (83.3%) had an improvement in Cobb angle during treatment with an average improvement of 8.9 degrees. All had an increase in thoracic height, with a mean increase of 3.41 cm. The most common adverse events were device migration in 7 patients and infection or skin problems in 6 patients. Conclusions VEPTR insertion with expansion thoracoplasty represents a successful treatment paradigm for nonsyndromic congenital spinal deformities. We report multicenter data with midterm follow-up of children without syndromic diagnoses, in which the vast majority had an improvement in Cobb angle and thoracic height over the treatment period. Challenges include the demands of multiple procedures, skin problems, and device migration. Level of evidence Level IV-prognostic study.
Attitudes about death in the nursing home: a research note.

An increasing percentage of the U.S. population dies in nursing homes. Despite the increased attention given to the topic of death, most nursing homes practice a covert approach. A total of 86 residents and staff members from 2 nursing homes support this finding; yet many expressed an interest in modifying the policy. A majority believed that others should be told about the death of a resident. Respondents reported the interview process to be satisfying.
Predictors of Health Locus of Control in Older Adults

Health locus of control has been shown to influence how individuals approach their health and health-related decisions. The present study examined the variables predictive of older adults’ health locus of control. A total of 261 adults aged 54–84 years completed a questionnaire about their health, approach to health, and background information about themselves. The results revealed that demographic indicators, health-related variables, and psychological variables—particularly health risk tolerance, future time perspective, health self-efficacy, and emotional instability—were related to older adults’ health locus of control. Findings have implications for programs aimed at modifying older adults’ health locus of control.
High-Impact Articles Related to the Management of Heart Failure: 2008 Update

This compilation is part of a series of articles identifying important literature in cardiovascular pharmacotherapy. This bibliography focuses on pharmacotherapeutic management of acute decompensated and chronic heart failure and provides an update of the heart failure bibliography published in Pharmacotherapy in 2004. Most of the cited works present the results of landmark clinical studies that have shaped the management of patients with heart failure. Limited primary literature is available for some topics, thus pertinent review articles are also listed. In addition, consensus documents formed by expert panels are reviewed. This compilation may serve as a teaching tool, reference resource, or update of the literature for pharmacy clinicians, physicians, and students.
Green's functions for transversely isotropic piezoelectric multilayered half-spaces

This paper presents Green's functions for transversely isotropic piezoelectric and layered half-spaces. The surface of the half-space can be under general boundary conditions and a point source (point-force/point-charge) can be applied to the layered structure at any location. The Green's functions are obtained in terms of two systems of vector functions, combined with the propagator-matrix method. The most noticeable feature is that the homogeneous solution and propagator matrix are independent of the choice of the system of vector functions, and can therefore be treated in a unified manner. Since the physical-domain Green's functions involve improper integrals of Bessel functions, an adaptive Gauss-quadrature approach is applied to accelerate the convergence of the numerical integral. Typical numerical examples are presented for four different half-space models, and for both the spring-like and general traction-free boundary conditions. While the four half-space models are used to illustrate the effect of material stacking sequence and anisotropy, the spring-like boundary condition is chosen to show the effect of the spring constant on the Green's function solutions. In particular, it is observed that, when the spring constant is relatively large, the response curve can be completely different to that when it is small or when it is equal to zero, with the latter corresponding to the traction-free boundary condition.
Reactions of Pseudomonas 7A glutaminase-asparaginase with diazo analogues of glutamine and asparagine result in unexpected covalent inhibitions and suggests an unusual catalytic triad Thr-Tyr-Glu.

Pseudomonas 7A glutaminase-asparaginase (PGA) catalyzes the hydrolysis of d and l isomers of glutamine and asparagine. Crystals of PGA were reacted with diazo analogues of glutamine (6-diazo-5-oxo-l-norleucine, DON) and asparagine (5-diazo-4-oxo-l-norvaline, DONV), which are known inhibitors of the enzyme. The derivatized crystals remained isomorphous to native PGA crystals. Their structures were refined to crystallographic R = 0.20 and Rfree = 0.24 for PGA−DON and R = 0.19 and R = 0.23 for PGA−DONV. Difference Fourier electron density maps clearly showed that both DON and DONV inactivate PGA through covalent inhibition. Continuous electron density connecting the inhibitor to both Thr20 and Tyr34 of the flexible loop was observed providing strong evidence that Thr20 is the primary catalytic nucleophile and that Tyr34 plays an important role in catalysis as well. The unexpected covalent binding observed in the PGA−DON and PGA−DONV complexes shows that a secondary reaction involving the formation of a Tyr34...
The photo-induced reaction of digermane with the Si(100)(2 × 1):D surface

Abstract Photo-induced surface reactions brought about by photolysis of adsorbed digermane on the Si(100)(2 × 1):D surface have been investigated under ultrahigh vacuum conditions using Auger electron spectroscopy and temperature programmed desorption. On the monodeuterated Si(100)(2 × 1):D surface, no spontaneous thermal reaction of digermane is observed, due to the termination of the dangling bonds with D atoms. Molecular Ge2H6, weakly adsorbed on Si(100)(2 × 1):D at 120 K, dissociates upon UV irradiation, leading to the incorporation of Ge atoms and the adsorption of H atoms on the surface. The appearance of a new low temperature α desorption state for hydrogen (deuterium) desorption near 580 K is further evidence for Ge deposition and the photo-induced decomposition of physi-adsorbed Ge2H6. The observation of α-HD and α-D2 desorption indicates that the photoreaction intermediate inserts into the surface Si-D bond to produce a Ge-D bond. Studies of the thermal reaction of Ge2H6 with partially deuterated (ΘD
The Kruppel-like factor KLF4 is a critical regulator of monocyte differentiation

Monocyte differentiation involves the participation of lineage-restricted transcription factors, although the mechanisms by which this process occurs are incompletely defined. Within the hematopoietic system, members of the Kruppel-like family of factors (KLFs) play essential roles in erythrocyte and T lymphocyte development. Here we show that KLF4/GKLF is expressed in a monocyte-restricted and stage-specific pattern during myelopoiesis and functions to promote monocyte differentiation. Overexpression of KLF4 in HL-60 cells confers the characteristics of mature monocytes. Conversely, KLF4 knockdown blocked phorbol ester-induced monocyte differentiation. Forced expression of KLF4 in primary common myeloid progenitors (CMPs) or hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) induced exclusive monocyte differentiation in clonogenic assays, whereas KLF4 deficiency inhibited monocyte but increased granulocyte differentiation. Mechanistic studies demonstrate that KLF4 is a target gene of PU.1. Consistently, KLF4 can rescue PU.1-/- fetal liver cells along the monocytic lineage and can activate the monocytic-specific CD14 promoter. Thus, KLF4 is a critical regulator in the transcriptional network controlling monocyte differentiation.
Treatment of mucocutaneous herpes simplex infections with acyclovir

Topical acyclovir speeds healing and decreases viral shedding and pain in immunocompromised patients with chronic, ulcerative herpetic lesions; it may be used when one does not wish to add another systemic drug. In severe first-episode and life-threatening infections, acyclovir may be administered intravenously for 7 to 10 days. In milder and non-life-threatening first-episode infections, acyclovir may be given orally in a dosage of 200 mg five times a day for 10 days. With these doses, healing is 50% faster and viral shedding stops 90% sooner. Acyclovir given early during first-episode infections, especially true primary infections, may decrease immune responses to the virus, but these usually become normal later. Fewer than six recurrences a year may be managed by 200 mg acyclovir orally five times a day for 5 days beginning as soon as symptoms appear. More than six recurrences a year, often every month, may be managed by continuous suppressive oral acyclovir therapy. Kaposi's varicelliform eruption responds to acyclovir given orally or intravenously depending on circumstances. Primary and recurrent herpetic whitlow respond to acyclovir.