cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Bone Marrow Transplantation to Cure Sickle Cell Disease Using the Diffusion of Innovation Theoretical Model

This project outlined use of the diffusion of innovations model to disseminate bone marrow transplantation technology for the cure of sickle cell anemia and other hemoglobinopathies. Besides, we Identified technologically developed nations that have the relevant medical workforce and infrastructures for BMT. Also discussed, is the necessity of equipping transplant facilities with the construction of the CLEAN ROOM with the state- of- the science resources to protect SCD patients from nosocomial infections. To save human lives and avoid unnecessary casualties, the medical team must protect their patients from hospital acquired infections (HAI), nosocomial and iatrogenic diseases during administration of transplant innovative device. Medical institutions must maintain continuity in sustainable, scientific workforce development. Finally, we explored the ethical, legal, social, and financial implications of adopting Bone Marrow Transplantation medical innovations to cure sickle cell anemia.
Stabilization of iron oxide nanoparticles in high sodium and calcium brine at high temperatures with adsorbed sulfonated copolymers.

A series of sulfonated random and block copolymers were adsorbed on the surface of ∼100 nm iron oxide (IO) nanoparticles (NPs) to provide colloidal stability in extremely concentrated brine composed of 8% wt NaCl + 2% wt CaCl2 (API brine; 1.4 M NaCl + 0.2 M CaCl2) at 90 °C. A combinatorial materials chemistry approach, which employed Ca2+-mediated adsorption of anionic acrylic acid-containing sulfonated polymers to preformed citrate-stabilized IO nanoclusters, enabled the investigation of a large number of polymer coatings. Initially a series of poly(2-methyl-2-acrylamidopropanesulfonate-co-acrylic acid) (poly(AMPS-co-AA)) (1:8 to 1:1 mol:mol), poly(styrenesulfonate-block-acrylic acid) (2.4:1 mol:mol), and poly(styrenesulfonate-alt-maleic acid) (3:1 mol:mol) copolymers were screened for solubility in API brine at 90 °C. The ratio of AMPS to AA groups was varied to balance the requirement of colloid dispersibility at high salinity (provided by AMPS) against the need for anchoring of the polymers to the iro...
Synthesis of Cobalt-, Nickel-, Copper-, and Zinc-Based, Water-Stable, Pillared Metal–Organic Frameworks

The performance of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) in humid or aqueous environments is a topic of great significance for a variety of applications ranging from adsorption separations to gas storage. While a number of water-stable MOFs have emerged recently in the literature, the majority of MOFs are known to have poor water stability compared to zeolites and activated carbons, and there is therefore a critical need to perform systematic water-stability studies and characterize MOFs comprehensively after water exposure. Using these studies we can isolate the specific factors governing the structural stability of MOFs and direct the future synthesis efforts toward the construction of new, water-stable MOFs. In this work, we have extended our previous work on the systematic water-stability studies of MOFs and synthesized new, cobalt-, nickel-, copper-, and zinc-based, water-stable, pillared MOFs by incorporating structural factors such as ligand sterics and catenation into the framework. Stability is assesse...
Long-term effects of growth factors on pH and acid-base transport in rat glomerular mesangial cells.

We investigated the long-term effects of exposing mesangial cells (MCs), previously quiescent, to platelet-derived growth factor, arginine vasopressin (AVP), epidermal growth factor, and serotonin ...
Parenting in Military Families Faced with Combat-Related Injury, Illness, or Death

Military children and families possess many strengths and generally enjoy health, wellness, and a capacity for resilience. However, they have also faced unprecedented war-related challenges since 2001, including combat-related parental injury, illness, and death. This chapter describes the distress faced by military children and families due to these experiences and the unique parenting challenges that result. The contribution of parenting to child outcomes is well-established in the literature, although less is known about the potential effects of parenting on child outcomes in such highly stressful or traumatic settings. While several parenting and family programs have been developed to support civilian and military children, none has been designed to specifically address the difficulties faced by these highly impacted families. The author recommends applying positive parenting strategies derived from evidence-based principles to at-risk families, while connecting them to communities capable of supporting their many needs over time. Six evidence-based parenting and family intervention strategies are discussed: (1) maintaining a physically safe and structured environment, (2) engaging required community resources, (3) developing and sharing knowledge within and outside of the family that builds shared understanding, (4) building a positive emotionally safe and warm family environment, (5) mastering and modeling important interpersonal skills, including problem solving and conflict resolution, and (6) maintaining a vision of hope and future optimism for the family. The chapter concludes by highlighting the need for future research to develop and study strategies to meet the needs of these highly impacted families.
Conclusion: The Twilight of an Idol

1. On the morning of January 3, 1889, upon seeing a cart driver beating his horse in a street in Turin, Nietzsche ran to the scene and interposed himself between man and animal. Seconds later, he collapsed physically and psychologically. Nietzsche, the philosopher who a couple of years earlier wrote that the advancement of the species justified a mass sacri- fice of a part of mankind,1 wanting to spare a workhorse a few bruises: the anecdote well illustrates Nietzsche’ State as his Century entered its final decade. After a year of prodigious activity during which he wrote no less than three books, two pamphlets, one collection of poems and hundreds of notebook entries and private letters, Nietzsche was not only physically strained, as one would expect, but also intellectually and emotionally confused.
A Theory of the Wind-Driven Beaufort Gyre Variability

The halocline of the Beaufort Gyre varies significantly on interannual to decadal time scales, affecting the freshwater content (FWC) of the Arctic Ocean. This study explores the role of eddies in the Ekman-driven gyre variability. Following the transformed Eulerian-mean paradigm, the authors develop a theory that links the FWC variability to the stability of the large-scale gyre, defined as the inverse of its equilibration time. The theory, verified with eddy-resolving numerical simulations, demonstrates that the gyre stability is explicitly controlled by the mesoscale eddy diffusivity. An accurate representation of the halocline dynamics requires the eddy diffusivity of 300 ± 200 m^2 s^(−1), which is lower than what is used in most low-resolution climate models. In particular, on interannual and longer time scales the eddy fluxes and the Ekman pumping provide equally important contributions to the FWC variability. However, only large-scale Ekman pumping patterns can significantly alter the FWC, with spatially localized perturbations being an order of magnitude less efficient. Lastly, the authors introduce a novel FWC tendency diagnostic—the Gyre Index—that can be conveniently calculated using observations located only along the gyre boundaries. Its strong predictive capabilities, assessed in the eddy-resolving model forced by stochastic winds, suggest that the Gyre Index would be of use in interpreting FWC evolution in observations as well as in numerical models.
Understanding School–Neighborhood Mesosystemic Effects on Adolescent Development

Research has demonstrated that school and neighborhood microsystems have important implications for adolescent development, but less attention is given to the school–neighborhood mesosystem (i.e., how these contexts intersect through moderational and mediational mechanisms.) Understanding the school–neighborhood mesosystem is important conceptually, methodologically, and for public policy. This article provides a narrative review of literature that examines the effects of the school–neighborhood mesosystem on adolescent development. The review focuses on adolescents’ proximal processes and phenomenological experiences in their schools and neighborhoods, as opposed to structural characteristics of these environments. This article situates the literature reviewed within a theoretical framework adapted from prior frameworks developed to describe the family–neighborhood mesosystem. Specifically, the framework outlines four moderational mechanisms and one mediational model through which school and neighborhood contexts may intersect. Within each mechanism, a narrative review of existing scholarship is presented, and hypothetical scenarios are offered when prior research is limited. This structure highlights the utility of the theoretical framework, by allowing for greater meaning making and synthesis across existing studies, identifying gaps in the current literature, and presenting directions for future research regarding the school–neighborhood mesosystem. The implications of the school–neighborhood mesosystem for both researchers and policy makers are discussed.
The effect of time between X-irradiation and chemotherapy on the growth of three solid mouse tumors—I. Adriamycin☆

Abstract Experiments have been carried out to determine the effect of different time intervals between X-irradiation (1200 rad) and the administration of adriamycin (ADR) (6 mg/kg) on the growth delay produced in 3 mouse tumors. The tumors used were the EMT6/St/i.d. tumor in BALB/c mice and the KHT and RIF-1 sarcomas in C3H mice. All tumors were grown intramuscularly in the gastrocnemius muscle and treatment was carried out at a mean tumor weight of 450 mg. Time to reach 2X (for KHT) or 4X (for EMT6/St/i.d. and RIF-1) treatment volume was used as the endpoint of response. The drug was administered by the intraperitoneal route either 24, 6, or 2 hr before radiation, immediately before the start of radiation, or 3, 6, or 24 hr after radiation. All irradiations were carried out in unanesthetized mice. For a single administration at this dose level (close to the maximum tolerated dose), ADR alone produced only minimal growth delay in any of the tumors. Furthermore, the growth delays produced by drug/radiation combinations were not significantly different from the addition of the growth delays produced by the single modalities.
Origins of and Supports for Purpose

Chapter 5 synthesizes research on the evolutionary and developmental origins of purpose as well as on how the construct can intentionally be fostered. Evolutionary psychologists argue that the presence of purpose and meaning in life was likely adaptive in our evolutionary past. Developing a life purpose allowed people to solve existential problems, alleviate boredom, get motivated, and help others. Beyond evolutionary theories, developmental theories of the construct suggest that social support is critical to fostering the growth of purpose. While all young people are likely to benefit from pursing a life purpose, few individuals actually discover and commit to one. Therefore, this chapter will address theoretically and empirically based strategies for fostering purpose in different contexts. Research on the role of parents, peers, teachers, schools, mentors, and communities in supporting purpose will be discussed.
A Closer Look at Descriptive Norms and Indoor Tanning: Investigating the Intermediary Role of Positive and Negative Outcome Expectations

Indoor tanning is a risky behavior that dramatically increases skin cancer risk. Researchers from multiple disciplines aim to better understand this behavior to develop interventions and messages t...
Multidimensional signal detection theory: Theoretical issues and empirical applications

Signal detection theory (SDT) provides a powerful set of tools for modeling choice data in a wide variety of domains. Fundamental to SDT is the distinction between noisy evidence and deterministic response selection. Multidimensional signal detection theory (MDSDT, aka general recognition theory) extends the basic concepts of SDT so that they are applicable to more complex tasks and data. Building on the SDT foundation of noisy evidence and deterministic response selection, MDSDT adds multiple ways in which dimensions may (or may not) interact. The additional complexity of multiple dimensions both broadens the range of applications of these tools and presents unique challenges. I will discuss the origins of MDSDT, a number of empirical applications of MDSDT in speech and hearing sciences, and some recent theoretical developments, focusing on model mimicry and identifiability and multilevel extensions of the basic model.
Modeling framework to predict two-phase flow distribution in heat exchanger headers

Abstract Mini- and microchannel heat exchangers have the potential to drastically decrease the size and cost of thermal systems, but they often underperform because of flow maldistribution. Maldistribution can be particularly acute when a two-phase mixture enters a heat exchanger header, which is difficult to address because the flow phenomena in these situations are poorly understood. Experimental studies in recent years have attempted to gain a better understanding of the flow regimes and distribution in manifolds, but methods to predict distribution in multi-channel heat exchangers have been lagging. A new modeling approach, which predicts the liquid and vapor flow rates in each channel of a microchannel heat exchanger based on header flow patterns and component pressure drop, is presented here. The proposed model shows good agreement with previously reported experimental results, predicting most of the data within the experimental error.
Mind the gap: Cognitive active learning in virtual learning environment perception of instructors and students

The use of a virtual learning environment is increasingly gaining popularity with universities among students and instructors. VLEs is said to increase flexibility and promote independent learning. However, the pedagogical effects and the contribution of instructors in student’s experience of cognitive active learning in these online classrooms is worth investigating. This paper seeks to explore the disparity between students and the instructor’s perception of cognitive active learning experience in a VLE. Consequently, this paper utilizes a phenomenological constructivism approach by using interviews and questionnaires as the primary method of data collection. The results show that instructors believe students are often not intrinsically motivated and consequently do not automatically experience deep learning in the VLE without the appropriate instructional support. The instructor must stimulate deep thinking with a well-formed and probing questions or comments which promotes critical thinking and knowledge transference. This highlights the disconnect between the two instructors and learners in the expectations, attitude towards learning, and the learning environment.
Quality of physician care coordination during inter-facility transfer for cardiac arrest patients.

Abstract Aim We sought to evaluate whether the quality of coordination between physicians transferring comatose cardiac arrest survivors to a high-volume cardiac arrest center for targeted temperature management (TTM) was associated with timeliness of care. Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of inter-facility transfers to Vanderbilt University Medical Center for TTM between October 2016 and October 2018. We examined the relationship between Relational Coordination (RC) – a measure of communication and relationship quality – during phone conversations between transferring physicians and time-to-acceptance. Results We identified 18 patients meeting criteria. TTM was initiated or continued in 72%, and in-hospital mortality was 75%. Median time-to-acceptance was 2.77 (interquartile range [IQR] 2.0, 4.1) minutes, and duration of calls was 3.95 (IQR 2.7, 5.2) minutes. Interrater reliability for overall RC was high (rho = 0.87). The correlation between RC and the time-to-acceptance was significant in univariate analyses (adjusted relative risk = 0.96, 95%CI 0.93, 1.0, p = 0.05). Secondary analyses did not find a significant relationship between RC and timeliness measures. Conclusion In this sample of patients transferred for TTM, we found that RC as a measure of care coordination, was reliable. Higher quality care coordination for cardiac arrest survivors was associated with faster physician acceptance. Future work using a larger cohort should explore if higher RC among a broader set of stakeholders (physicians, EMS, families, etc.) is associated with timeliness measures after adjusting for other factors, to better understand how the quality of care coordination impacts timeliness of care and patient outcomes.
Energetics and mechanisms for the acetonyl radical + O2 reaction: An important system for atmospheric and combustion chemistry.

The acetonyl radical (•CH2COCH3) is relevant to atmospheric and combustion chemistry due to its prevalence in many important reaction mechanisms. One such reaction mechanism is the decomposition of Criegee intermediates in the atmosphere that can produce acetonyl radical and OH. In order to understand the fate of the acetonyl radical in these environments and to create more accurate kinetics models, we have examined the reaction system of the acetonyl radical with O2 using highly reliable theoretical methods. Structures were optimized using coupled cluster theory with singles, doubles, and perturbative triples [CCSD(T)] with an atomic natural orbital (ANO0) basis set. Energetics were computed to chemical accuracy using the focal point approach involving perturbative treatment of quadruple excitations [CCSDT(Q)] and basis sets as large as cc-pV5Z. The addition of O2 to the acetonyl radical produces the acetonylperoxy radical, and multireference computations on this reaction suggest it to be barrierless. No submerged pathways were found for the unimolecular isomerization of the acetonylperoxy radical. Besides dissociation to reactants, the lowest energy pathway available for the acetonylperoxy radical is a 1-5 H shift from the methyl group to the peroxy group through a transition state that is 3.3 kcal mol−1 higher in energy than acetonyl radical + O2. The ultimate products from this pathway are the enol tautomer of the acetonyl radical along with O2. Multiple pathways that lead to OH formation are considered; however, all of these pathways are predicted to be energetically inaccessible, except at high temperatures.
A new combinatorial approach to assess the influence of alloy composition on the oxidation behavior and concurrent oxygen-induced phase transformations for binary Ti-xCr alloys at 650 C

Abstract Poor oxidation performance of Ti-based alloys is an important life-limiting factor for high temperature applications. In this paper, a combinatorial approach is used to investigate systematically the influence of composition and time on the oxidation of Ti–Cr system. A compositionally graded Ti– x Cr specimen (0 ⩽ x ⩽ 40 wt%) was prepared and oxidized at 650 °C. The structure and composition of the oxide and near-surface region were studied and a critical composition of ∼20 wt% Cr was identified above which the oxidation resistance is enhanced. Below the critical composition transition to a rapid breakaway oxidation was observed for extended exposure times.
Advances in Treatment of Recurrent Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC): Insights for Optimizing Patient Outcomes from an Expert Roundtable Discussion.

Second-line treatment options for patients with relapsed, extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC) are limited, and even with currently available treatments, prognosis remains poor. Until recently, topotecan (a topoisomerase I inhibitor) was the only drug approved by the United States (US) Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the management of ES-SCLC following progression after first-line treatment with etoposide plus a platinum derivative (EP; carboplatin preferred). With the most recent approval of EP plus a programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) inhibitor, there are now more therapeutic options for managing ES-SCLC. A number of novel agents have emerging data for activity in relapsed ES-SCLC, and single-agent lurbinectedin (an alkylating drug and selective inhibitor of oncogenic transcription and DNA repair machinery in tumor cells) has conditional FDA approval for use in this patient population. Trilaciclib, a short-acting cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 (CDK 4/6) inhibitor, has also been recently approved as a supportive intervention for use prior to an EP or a topotecan-containing regimen to diminish the incidence of chemotherapy-induced myelosuppression. The current review is based on a recent expert roundtable discussion and summarizes current therapeutic agents and emerging data on newer agents and biomarkers. It also provides evidence-based clinical considerations and a treatment decision tool for oncologists treating patients with relapsed ES-SCLC. This paper discusses the importance of various factors to consider when selecting a second-line treatment option, including prior first-line treatment, available second-line treatment options, tumor platinum sensitivity, and patient characteristics (such as performance status, comorbidities, and patient-expressed and perceived values).
20/20 in 2020?: Refractive vision, 45, and white supremacy

To examine events leading up to and occurring in 2020, we adopt vision, along with refractive diseases and disorders, as a metaphorical framework. Heuristically, a vision metaphor enables us to mak...
Comparison of Post-injection Site Pain Between Technetium Sulfur Colloid and Technetium Tilmanocept in Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy

Background No prior studies have examined injection pain associated with Technetium-99m Tilmanocept (TcTM).
Private Equity in the Global Economy: Evidence on Industry Spillovers

Using a novel dataset on global private equity investments in 19 industries across 48 countries, we find that following investments by private equity funds labor productivity, employment, profitability, and capital expenditures increase for publicly-listed companies in the same country and industry. This suggests that positive externalities created by private equity firms are absorbed by other companies within the same industry. These effects are more pronounced in country-industries with higher levels of competition suggesting that the competitive pressure from private equity-backed firms forces industry peers to react. On the financial side, we provide evidence that industry stock market returns increase subsequent to venture capital investments, while buyout investments lead to higher debt levels within the industry. Overall, our findings suggest that private equity investments have important spillovers to publicly traded firms and the real economy.
Unproductive migration reconsidered: a stochastic frontier production function framework for analyzing internal migration.

This paper measures the output gains and losses from migration by using stochastic frontier production functions to identify migrants marginal revenue products in both origin and destination areas. After this output effect of migration has been calculated adjustments are made for: (1) the negative externalities produced by migrants; and (2) distorted domestic relative prices. At least in the Peruvian case internal migration is shown to have increased gross domestic product. This result is quite robust and obtains both with and without the aforementioned adjustments. (EXCERPT)
Helicobacter pylori activates NF‐κB by inducing Ubc13‐mediated ubiquitination of lysine 158 of TAK1

The Helicobacter pylori virulence factor CagA targets a variety of host proteins to alter different cellular responses, including the induction of pro-inflammatory cytokines. We have previously shown that CagA-facilitated lysine 63-linked ubiquitination of TAK1 is essential for the H. pylori-induced NF-κB activation and the expression of proinflammatory cytokines. However, the molecular mechanism for TAK1 ubiquitination and activation in H. pylori-mediated NF-κB activation remains elusive. Here, we identify lysine 158 of TAK1 as the key residue undergoing lysine 63-linked ubiquitination in response to H. pylori infection. Mutation of lysine 158 to arginine prevents the ubiquitination of TAK1 and impairs H. pylori-induced TAK1 and NF-κB activation. Moreover, we demonstrate that E2 ubiquitin conjugating enzyme Ubc13 is involved in H. pylori-mediated TAK1 ubiquitination. Suppressing the activity of Ubc13 by a dominant-negative mutant or siRNA abolishes CagA-facilitated and H. pylori-induced TAK1 and NF-κB activation. These findings further underscore the importance of lysine 63-linked ubiquitination of TAK1 in H. pylori-induced NF-κB activation and NF-κB-mediated inflammatory response.
Professional respondents in nonprobability online panels

Among the concerns raised about non probability online panels is the presence of so-called “professional” respondents – well-trained or experienced survey-takers who seek out large numbers of surveys, typically for the cash and incentives offered (Baker et al., 2010, 756–757). There is accumulating evidence that there exists a large number of frequent survey-takers who participate in many different online panels. A 2006 comScore study concluded that fewer than 1% of panel members in the ten largest market research online survey panels in the United States were responsible for 34% of the completed questionnaires (Grover & Vriens, 2006). An analysis using 16 different online panels in the United States and the United Kingdom found that the average panelist belonged to four different survey panels (Gittelman & Trimarchi, 2009). Likewise, a study of 19 different panels in the Netherlands found that 62% of panelists belonged to multiple online panels (Willems, Vonk, & Ossenbruggen, 2006b). As opt-in panel surveys become more prevalent in academic research, there is a need to explore if and how frequent survey-takers affect the reliability and validity of the collected data.
Stress and burnout among critical care fellows: preliminary evaluation of an educational intervention.

Background : Despite a demanding work environment, information on stress and burnout of critical care fellows is limited. Objectives : To assess 1) levels of burnout, perceived stress, and quality of life in critical care fellows, and 2) the impact of a brief stress management training on these outcomes. Methods : In a tertiary care academic medical center, 58 critical care fellows of varying subspecialties and training levels were surveyed to assess baseline levels of stress and burnout. Twenty-one of the 58 critical care fellows who were in the first year of training at the time of this initial survey participated in a pre-test and 1-year post-test to determine the effects of a brief, 90-min stress management intervention. Results : Based on responses ( n =58) to the abbreviated Maslach Burnout Inventory, reported burnout was significantly lower in Asian fellows ( p =0.04) and substantially higher among graduating fellows (versus new and transitioning fellows) ( p =0.02). Among the intervention cohort, burnout did not significantly improve – though two-thirds of fellows reported using the interventional techniques to deal with stressful situations. Fellows who participated in the intervention rated the effectiveness of the course as 4 (IQR=3.75–5) using the 5-point Likert scale. Conclusions : In comparison with the new and transitioning trainees, burnout was highest among graduating critical care fellows. Although no significant improvements were found in first-year fellows’ burnout scores following the single, 90-min training intervention, participants felt the training did provide them with tools to apply during stressful situations. Keywords: survey research; critical care; mental health; program evaluation; medical education; burnout (Published: 23 July 2015) Citation: Med Educ Online 2015, 20: 27840 - http://dx.doi.org/10.3402/meo.v20.27840
Direct measurement of volume flux in the Faroe-Shetland Channel and over the Iceland-Faroe Ridge

[1] Determining the exchange of water across the Iceland-Faroe-Scotland ridge is of fundamental interest because it measures the rate of transformation of North Atlantic water into dense water and thus the strength of the meridional overturning circulation (MOC). Here we study this exchange by monitoring all water flowing through the area east of Iceland to near the bottom or ∼600 m depth using a 75 kHz acoustic Doppler current profiler (ADCP) mounted on the high-seas ferry M/F Norrona. Starting in March 2008, currents have been measured in the Faroe-Shetland Channel (FSC) and along the Iceland-Faroe Ridge (IFR) on the ferry's weekly round-trips between Iceland and Denmark. The detided average transports (to the north) across the two sections are 4.1 ± 0.1 Sv (106 m2s−1) through the FSC and 4.4 ± 0.25 Sv across the IFR (this excludes ∼1.6 Sv circulating around the Faroes). The Norrona program is ongoing.
cDNA cloning and expression of rat and human protein geranylgeranyltransferase type-I.

Abstract Protein geranylgeranyltransferase type-I (GGTase-I) transfers a geranylgeranyl group to the cysteine residue of candidate proteins containing a carboxyl-terminal CAAX (C, cysteine; A, aliphatic amino acid; X, any amino acid) motif in which the "X" residue is leucine. The enzyme is composed of a 48-kilodalton alpha subunit and a 43-kilodalton beta subunit. Peptides isolated from the alpha subunit of GGTase-I were shown to be identical with the alpha subunit of a related enzyme, protein farnesyltransferase. Overlapping cDNA clones containing the complete coding sequence for the beta subunit of GGTase-I were obtained from rat and human cDNA libraries. The cDNA clones from both species each predicted a protein of 377 amino acids with molecular masses of 42.4 kilodaltons (human) and 42.5 kilodaltons (rat). Amino acid sequence comparison suggests that the protein encoded by the Saccharomyces cerevisiae gene CDC43 is the yeast counterpart of the mammalian GGTase-I beta subunit. Co-expression of the GGTase-I beta subunit cDNA together with the alpha subunit of protein farnesyltransferase in Escherichia coli produced recombinant GGTase-I with electrophoretic and enzymatic properties indistinguishable from native GGTase-I.
The EAS Theory of Temperament

Temperaments are here regarded as a subclass of personality traits, defined by: appearance during the first year of life, persistence later in life, and the contribution of heredity. The three personality traits that meet these criteria are emotionality, activity, and sociability, from which are derived the acronym EAS (Buss & Plomin, 1984). There are other individual differences that may be observed in infants, and other personality traits that are inherited, but only the three EAS traits meet both criteria.
Optical serrodyne frequency shifting using polymer modulators

Serrodyne frequency shifting of continuous optical signals and optical pulses by up to 86 GHz is demonstrated in an electrooptic polymer phase modulator. Current work focuses on increasing the frequency shift using time-compressed sawtooth waveforms.
The impact of lossy line propagation on large die

Contrary to popular opinion, smaller feature sizes are not always faster when it comes to designing large custom CMOS die. This is due to the fact that at and below 0.5 micron ground rules, metal line cross-sections are becoming so small that lossy line propagation performance degraders are becoming significant. This knowledge was garnered by analyzing a real microprocessor design and comparing this data with a theoretical wiring model. However, the use of a multi-chip die (MCD) rather than an oversized die can result in a significant cost-performance advantage for a large complex system function such as a microprocessor.
Parallel particle swarm optimization (PPSO) on the coverage problem in pursuit-evasion games

A Parallel Particle Swarm Optimization (PPSO) algorithm using MPI is implemented to solve the coverage problem of pursuit-evasion (PE) games where multiple pursuers need to cooperate to cover an agile evader's possible escape area within reasonable time. The area to be covered is complex and thus difficult to calculate analytically. With the use of PPSO, maximum coverage is achieved in less time, given the minimum number of pursuers. The computation time can be further reduced by optimizing the fitness function based on data locality. In addition, using variable length of communication data frame performs better than fixed length in reducing inter-process communication time when the number of processors increases (more than four in the test example). Simulation results show a comparison of the speedup, the computation time before and after optimizing the fitness function, and communication time between fixed and variable data frame. Pursuers' positions and orientations are also presented to show the effectiveness of the PPSO algorithm.
Positioning of Base Stations in Wireless Sensor Networks

Wireless sensor networks (WSN) have attracted much attention in recent years due to their potential use in many applications such as border protection and combat field surveillance. Given the criticality of such applications, maintaining a dependable operation of the network is a fundamental objective. However, the resource-constrained nature of sensor nodes and the ad hoc formation of the network, often coupled with an unattended deployment, pose non-conventional challenges and motivate the need for special techniques for dependable design and management of WSN. In this article, we highlight the potential of careful positioning of the base station (BS), which acts as a sink node for the collected data, as a viable means for increasing the dependability of WSN. We categorize published work on optimal positioning of BS in WSN. Referring to such work as static positioning, we further introduce dynamic schemes that reposition the BS during the network operation. We show that dynamic BS positioning can be very effective in optimizing the network functional and non-functional performance objectives and in coping with dynamic changes in the environment and available network resources
Urine gonococcal/Chlamydia testing in adolescents

This review will highlight the recent literature findings regarding urine-based Chlamydia and gonorrhea testing in adolescents. Rates of Chlamydia trachomatis are increasing likely due to increased detection efficiency but have not yet begun to decrease. Neisseria gonorrhoeae is at an all-time low. Urine-based testing for sexually transmitted infections is readily available and convenient but underutilized. Interesting approaches to a more universal screening program including self-collected mail-in urine samples have been shown to be effective. In spite of recommendations urging universal screening for C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoeae and the availability of highly accurate and convenient tests screening rates for adolescents and young adults remain below the universal recommendations. Strategies to improve screening rates should take advantage of urine-based screening methodologies for sexually transmitted infections because of their cost-effectiveness as well as the convenience for patient and provider. (authors)
Algebraic and Numerical Techniques for Offsets and Blends

We examine some techniques and results from algebraic geometry, and assess how and to what extent they are of use in computer-aided geometric design (CAGD). Focusing on offset and blending surface construction, we illustrate how to apply and assess algebraic methods. We also examine some numerical techniques for interrogating offsets and blending surfaces constructed using the algebraic approach.
Invariance identities associated with finite gauge transformations and the uniqueness of the equations of motion of a particle in a classical gauge field

A certain class of geometric objects is considered against the background of a classical gauge field associated with an arbitrary structural Lie group. It is assumed that the components of these objects depend on the gauge potentials and their first derivatives, and also on certain gauge-dependent parameters whose properties are suggested by the interaction of an isotopic spin particle with a classical Yang-Mills field. It is shown that the necessary and sufficient conditions for the invariance of the given objects under a finite gauge transformation are embodied in a set of three relations involving the derivatives of their components. As a special case these so-called invariance identities indicate that there cannot exist a gauge-invariant Lagrangian that depends on the gauge potentials, the interaction parameters, and the4-velocity components of a test particle. However, the requirement that the equations of motion that result from such a Lagrangian be gauge-invariant, uniquely determines the structure of these equations.
Suicides among Former Major League Baseball Players

Summary No support was found for the hypothesis that former major league baseball players do not commit suicide during the baseball season.
Solution of Cartesian and Curvilinear quantum equations via multiwavelets on the interval

Abstract It is shown how orthogonal compact-support multiwavelets may be used for the solution of quantum mechanical eigenvalue problems subject to specific boundary conditions. Special scaling functions and wavelets with convenient limiting behaviors at the edges of an interval are constructed in analogy to earlier work on single wavelet families. All of the integrals required for Hamiltonian matrix elements, involving both regular and edge functions, are calculated efficiently through use of recursion and quadrature methods. It is demonstrated through accurate eigenvalue determination that both Cartesian and curvilinear degrees of freedom are readily accommodated with such a basis, using as examples the particle in a box and the hydrogen atom in spherical polar coordinates.
Estradiol acts as a competitive inhibitor of the 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/delta 5-delta 4 isomerase enzyme of cultured Leydig tumor cells.

To study the local regulatory mechanisms involving steroid hormones in steroidogenic cells, the effect of estradiol on steroidogenesis was investigated using MA-10 Leydig tumor cells. Estradiol inhibited progesterone biosynthesis in MA-10 cells in a dose-dependent manner. Inhibition of progesterone biosynthesis by estradiol was associated with a concomitant accumulation of pregnenolone in the incubation medium. Estradiol inhibited the activity of 3j8-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/ Δ6-Δ4 isomerase by a chemical mechanism which is not mediated through the cellular estrogen receptor. Thus, the estrogen receptor agonist diethylstilbestrol did not inhibit this enzyme activity, nor could this agent block the effect of estradiol on the enzyme. Furthermore, estradiol inhibited enzyme activity in isolated microsomes which do not contain estradiol receptor protein. Kinetic analysis of the inhibitory effect of estradiol on 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/Δ6-Δ4 isomerase revealed that this steroid hormone functions as...
Senior Center Activities and Services Findings from a National Study

This article presents data on the number, nature, and availability of activities and services offered by a 31-state sample of 755 senior centers. Centers provide a mean 11.1 activities and 17.6 services-considerably more in number and variety than they made available a decade ago. Health, recreation, nutrition, access to center, and information/assistance are most likely and special/personal counseling, income supplement, and in-home are least likely to be offered.
Effect of Shear Flow on the Morphology and Phase Behavior of a Near-Critical SAN/PMMA Blend

An ongoing debate concerns whether experimental observations of flow-induced miscibility of polymer blends actually result from a "true" shift of the critical temperature. To elucidate the origin of the phenomenon more clearly, we have investigated the structural changes of phase domains of a number of polymer blends under the influence of flow. The most recent study used a near-critical blend of poly(styrene-co-acrylonitrile)/poly(methyl methacrylate), which exhibits LCST type phase behavior. Rheo-SALS (small angle light scattering) was used to probe the time-dependent structure evolution during shear flow. Quenched samples were examined with TEM and phase contrast light microscopy, and the Fourier transforms of digitized micrographs were compared with two-dimensional light scattering measurements of the same samples. The blends were also subjected to pressure-driven flows and drag flows at very high stresses, and their morphology was similarly studied. The structure evolution due to flow could be explained by hydrodynamic effects consistent with droplet breakup theory.
LITIGATION, JUDICIAL DEFERENCE, AND POLICY CHANGE

Social scientists have reported extensively on the impact of Supreme Court decisions overturning public policy, but not on those sustaining it. This article stresses the need to study the impact of litigation, including the impact of losing lawsuits. Presenting data on the impact of San Antonio Independent School District v. Rodriguez, the article demonstrates how a losing lawsuit can produce positive policy change from the consumer's perspective. After comparing the policy aftermath of Rodriguez with that of two winning school-finance cases, I suggest that the final judicial decision may not be the most significant event in litigation stimulating policy change.
In vitro reactions of vacuole inheritance in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Vacuole inheritance is temporally coordinated with the cell cycle and is restricted spatially to an axis between the maternal vacuole and the bud. The new bud vacuole is founded by a stream of vacuole-derived membranous vesicles and tubules which are transported from the mother cell into the bud to form the daughter organelle. We now report in vitro formation of vacuole-derived tubules and vesicles. In semi-intact cells, formation of tubulovesicular structures requires ATP and the proteins encoded by VAC1 and VAC2, two genes which are required for vacuole inheritance in vivo. Isolation of vacuoles from cell lysates before in vitro incubation reveals that formation of tubulovesicular structures requires cytosol as well as ATP. After forming tubulovesicular structures, isolated vacuoles subsequently increase in size. Biochemical assays reveal that this increase results from vacuole to vacuole fusion, leading to mixing of organellar contents. Intervacuolar fusion is sensitive to the phosphatase inhibitors microcystin-LR and okadaic acid, suggesting that protein phosphorylation/dephosphorylation reactions play a role in this event.
Deterministic improvement of complex polynomial factorization based on the properties of the associated resultant

Abstract We show an improvement of the known best deterministic approach to factorization of a univariate polynomial p ( x ) over the complex field. Previously, such an improvement was achieved by means of a random perturbation of the coefficients of the input polynomial. We now apply some new techniques, which lead to a similar result without any randomization. The approach is unusual in exploiting some properties of the resultant of p ( x ) and p ′( x ), which is completely distinct from the techniques usually applied in order to compute complex polynomial factorization.
Fuel-based fine particulate and black carbon emission factors from a railyard area in Atlanta

Railyards have the potential to influence localfine particulate matter (aerodynamic diameter < or = 2.5 microm; PM2.5) concentrations through emissions from diesel locomotives and supporting activities. This is of concern in urban regions where railyards are in proximity to residential areas. Northwest of Atlanta, Georgia, Inman and Tilford railyards are located beside residential neighborhoods, industries, and schools. The PM2.5 concentrations near the railyards is the highest measured amongst the state-run monitoring sites (Georgia Environmental Protection Division, 2012; http://www.georgiaair.org/amp/report.php). The authors estimated fuel-based black carbon (BC) and PM2.5 emission factors for these railyards in order to help determine the impact of railyard activities on PM2.5 concentrations, and for assessing the potential benefits of replacing current locomotive engines with cleaner technologies. High-time-resolution measurements of BC, PM2.5, CO2, and wind speed and direction were made at two locations, north and south of the railyards. Emissions factors (i.e., the mass of BC or PM2.5 per gallon of fuel burned) were estimated by using the downwind/upwind difference in concentrations, wavelet analysis, and an event-based approach. By the authors' estimates, diesel-electric engines used in the railyards have average emission factors of 2.8 +/- 0.2 g of BC and 6.0 +/- 0.5 g of PM2.5 per gallon of diesel fuel burned. A broader mix of railyard supporting activities appear to lead to average emission factors of 0.7 +/- 0.03 g of BC and 1.5 +/- 0.1 g of PM2.5 per gallon of diesel fuel burned. Railyard emissions appear to lead to average enhancements of approximately 1.7 +/- 0.1 microg/m3 of PM2.5 and approximately 0.8 +/- 0.01 microg/m3 of BC in neighboring areas on an annual average basis. Uncertainty not quantified in these results could arise mainly from variability in downwind/upwind differences, differences in emissions of the diverse zones within the railyards, and the influence of on-road mobile source emissions.
Comparative impacts of forest harvest and acid precipitation on soil and streamwater acidity.

Abstract Annual H+ budgets were calculated for a catchment with a 65-year-old spruce-fir forest, and for an adjacent catchment at three years after a whole-tree harvest. In the harvested catchment sinks for H+ due to weathering and mineralization reactions were 85% greater, and sources of H+ due to biomass uptake were 60% greater than in the undisturbed catchment. There was an overall net consumption of 550 eq H+ ha−1 year−1 at year 3 after harvest compared to a net generation of 520 eq H+ ha−1 year−1 for the 65-year-old forest. Soil pH increased by 0·2–0·4 units soon after harvest, but there was little change in pH of streamwater from the harvested watershed. The whole-tree harvest resulted in a total production of about 30 000 eq H+ ha−1 due to biomass removal. In contrast, wet and dry deposition at rates measured in this study could add more than 50 000 eq H+ ha−1 in the 65-year period before the next harvest. Reducing the intensity of harvest may lessen long-term impacts of these sources of H+ on acidification of soils and streams.
The Preparation of Tri(hydroxymethyl)Sulfanilamidomethane

Tri (hydroxymethyl) sulfanilamidomethane was prepared by treating tri(hydroxymethyl)-aminomethane with p-acetoaminobenzenesulfonyl chloride in an aqueous medium with controlled temperature and subsequent hydrolysis of the acetyl compound. Proof of the presence of three hydroxyl groups in the molecule was accomplished by acetylation and subsequent saponification. The compound was tested in vitro against two Gram-negative and two Gram-positive organisms, using sulfathiazole sodium as a standard. In no case was its bacteriostatic action equal to that of sulfathiazole sodium.