cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Community osteoporosis screening services for the prevention of osteoporotic fractures in population health: a literature review.

ABSTRACTAim:To determine the implications of the reviewed literature in population health improvement.Method:A review of the literature was conducted with the search of four databases: PubMed, PsycINFO, ERIC, and Google Scholar. Search terms entered into these databases were ‘osteoporosis community’
Do Socially Responsible Firms Promote Women and Minority CEOs

Why is there a lack of women and minorities in CEO positions despite the increasing attention from the society at large? While prior research has generally relied on corporate governance and divers...
A New Universal Cycle for Permutations

We introduce a novel notation, the relaxed shorthand notation, to encode permutations. We then present a simple shift rule that exhaustively lists out each of the permutations exactly once. The shift rule induces a cyclic Gray code for permutations where successive strings differ by a rotation or a shift. By concatenating the first symbol of each string in the listing, we produce a universal cycle for permutations in relaxed shorthand notation. We also prove that the universal cycle can be constructed in O(1)-amortized time per symbol using O(n) space.
A General Region-Based Framework for Collaborative Planning

Sampling-based planning is a common method for solving motion planning problems. However, this paradigm falters in difficult scenarios, such as narrow passages. In contrast, humans can frequently identify these challenges and can sometimes propose an approximate solution. A recent method called Region Steering takes advantage of this intuition by allowing a user to define regions in the workspace to weight the search space for probabilistic roadmap planners. In this work, we extend Region Steering into a generalized Region-Based framework that is suitable for any sampling-based planning approach. We explore three variants of our framework for graph-based, tree-based, and hybrid planning methods. We evaluate these variants in simulations as a proof of concept. Our results demonstrate the benefits of our framework in reducing overall planning time.
Social fluidity mobilizes infectious disease in human and animal populations

This paper introduces a novel method to quantify sociality in human and animal populations and explores the connection between social behaviour and the spread of infectious disease. Individuals living in groups tend to distribute their social effort heterogeneously, with some group members receiving more attention than others. By incorporating this heterogeneity into a mathematical model, we find that a single parameter, which we name Social Fluidity, controls the level of social mixing in the population. We estimate the social fluidity of 51 empirical human and animal social systems using maximum likelihood techniques. An analytical formula that connects social fluidity to both the population size and the basic reproductive number of an infectious disease is derived and simulations of the spread of disease are performed. We find that social fluidity outperforms other network-based metrics in predicting the basic reproductive number of an infectious disease and that the effect of population size on disease transmission is insignificant compared to the effect of social fluidity.
Development of Cell Physiology and Diversity

After the First Cell arose, mutations occurred and sometimes the mutant organisms would grow and prosper. Prospering would mean displacing the parental type, but it would also mean displacing other mutants and other organisms if they were not quite as fit. Selection of the better organisms is called (in addition to the “survival of the fittest”) the “competitive exclusion principle of Gause”. This latter phrase is used particularly when we talk of competition between species. Most students of evolution believe that almost all biological development took place under the auspices of Gause’s principle.
Time-Dependent Linear Theory for the Generation of Poleward Undercurrents on Eastern Boundaries

AbstractA time-dependent, inviscid, linear theory for the generation of poleward undercurrent flow under upwelling conditions along midlatitude ocean eastern boundaries is proposed. The theory relies on a conceptual separation of time scales between the rapid, coastal-trapped wave response to upwelling winds and the subsequent slow, interior, quasigeostrophic evolution. Solutions are obtained under idealized conditions in which the coastal boundary and the continental-slope topography are uniform alongshore, and the time-dependent wind-stress forcing is applied over a limited meridional range, uniform cross-shore, and directed alongshore. A time-dependent coastal boundary condition on the slow-time-scale interior flow, consisting of the low-frequency, geostrophically balanced sea surface height disturbance over the outer shelf, is obtained from consideration of the fast-time-scale, coastal-trapped response. A quasigeostrophic potential vorticity equation is then solved to determine the interior response t...
Therapeutic Approaches to the Management of Herpes Zoster

Over the past five years herpes zoster has been one of the most intensely studied viral infections of the immunocompetent host, due mainly to the high incidence of disease and the resultant morbidity in elderly individuals. The introduction of the prodrugs valaci-clovir and famciclovir for the treatment of herpes zoster has provided significant advances in clinical outcome. In the evaluation of thousands of immunocompetent individuals with herpes zoster, these drugs provide both pharmacokinetic advantages and enhanced clinical benefits over the standard of therapy, aciclovir. Both valaciclovir and famciclovir accelerate cutaneous healing and decrease acute neuritis and zoster-associated pain as compared to placebo. Additionally, the value of adjunctive therapy with corticosteriods has been rigorously assessed. While concomitant corticosteriod therapy does not have an effect on postherpetic neuralgia, it improves quality of life parameters such as return to usual activity, total cessation of analgesic use, and ability to sleep uninterrupted at night. In studies performed by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) Collaborative Study Group (CASG), adjunctive corticosteriod therapy was reserved for older individuals who did not have contraindications for this management approach. While these recent advances provide improved outcomes for elderly individuals afflicted with herpes zoster, the persistence of pain and its attendant morbid complications remains a viable therapeutic target for antiviral medications and/or adjunctive therapies. This review will stress the advances achieved in the treatment of herpes zoster with valaciclovir and famciclovir; aciclovir studies provide an essential foundation.
Microbial shelf stability assessment of osmotically dehydrated smoky apples

The infusion of Refined Liquid Smoke (RLS) during osmotic dehydration in apples slices was performed and its effect on some selected quality attributes (color, texture, and microbial load) of resulting apples was evaluated over a storage period under vacuum and non-vacuum packaging. Prior to hot air drying at 74 °C, fresh apple slices were pretreated via osmotic dehydration using either 42% w/w sugar solution or 42% w/w sugar solution with 1% food grade refined liquid smoke (RLS). The quality attributes were measured at room temperature during a storage period of five months. For control, quality attributes of convectively dried apples with no osmotic dehydration pretreatment were used. The result showed that dried apple slices pretreated in pure sugar solution retain the color of fruit better than untreated dried samples, while samples infused with RLS showed a characteristic brown coloration. Additionally, RLS infused dried apples showed better textural properties when compared with the control. In all samples, significant microbial reduction (below 5 log CFU/g) was recorded throughout the storage period. However, RLS infused dried apples showed the highest microbial growth reduction and the control showed the worst microbial growth reduction in a non-vacuum package.
Ergonomic Transducer Design for Endoscopic Optical Coherence Tomography

Number of applications for optical MEMS, specifically MEMS with reflecting mirrors increased dramatically in recent years covering areas of optical communication (optical switches), robotics, medical devices, transportation systems, etc. Design of versatile optical transducers with mirrors capable to provide wide range of deflections yet with minimized energy consumption in smaller territory occupied on the semiconductor chip became to be a paramount concern for MEMS designers. Our design describes an optical actuator, where a mirror is installed at a 200µm long lever. On the opposite side of the lever there is a plate of capacitor used to activate lever moves. The pivoting point could be positioned at any place under the lever to provide needed division of the lever in the ratio needed for specified application. For the Optical Coherence Tomography application discussed in our study the 3:1 ratio is used. Very small applied voltage varying in the range from 0 to 5V moves the mirror with large deflection from 0 o to 45 o . We discuss briefly the standard micro fabrication steps to be used to make our design of our optical actuator.
Translanguaged Paideia Seminars: Empowering Emergent Bilingual Learners' Voices

This article aims to complement the growing body of research on additive approaches to English language learning and championing multilingualism. This teacher-research study observes the results of a combination of two dialogic instructional practices; Paideia Seminars and translanguaging. The qualitative study took place in an ESOL classroom and describes the process in which fourteen 6th and 8th grade emergent bilingual learners (EBLs) navigate verbal discourse by applying their full linguistic repertoire throughout four student-led, translanguaged Paideia Seminars. The data collection and analysis point to increased student engagement and dialogic social capital. The article concludes by encouraging teachers to empower their EBLs through using equitable practices such as translanguaged Paideia Seminars.
CRT-200.26 Does Micropuncture Technique Really Help Reduce Vascular Complications?

Femoral arterial access (FAA) in Coronary Angiography (CAG), and Percutaneous Coronary Interventional (PCI) is associated with 2-6% vascular complication (VC) rate. FEMORIS randomized study comparing 21-gauge Micropuncture technique (MPT) with 18-gauge failed to demonstrate statistical superiority
Demonstration of Thin-Layer Chromatography

Thin-layer chromatography (TLC) is also called “open-column chromatography”, indicating the similarities between TLC and regular column chromatography. In the latter the adsorbent forms a column in a glass tube, but in the TLC system it is evenly spread on a glass plate, forming a thin layer. The method was developed and reviewed by Stahl (1965).
Obesity and Adipokines

Adipose tissue (AT) is composed of adipocytes and a diverse population of nonadipocytes that are commonly referred to as stronial-vascular cells. Adipose tissue has traditionally been considered a passive storage energy depot that, indeed, does serve as a long-term reservoir for fuel stored as triglyceride. However, laboratory, clinical, and epidemiological studies over the past decade have redefined and greatly expanded our understanding of the physiological role of AT. We now appreciate that AT is an endocrine organ with important roles in maintaining whole-body energy homeostasis and systemic metabolism. This appreciation derives in large part from the identification of multiple AT-secreted factors that modulate central and peripheral processes. These include free fatty acids, which have significant effects on glucose and insulin homeostasis, as well as bioactive peptides termed adipokines. Adipokines act in an autocrine, paracrine, and/or endocrine fashion to promote metabolic homeostasis, and integrate adipose tissue, liver, muscle, and CNS physiology.
In the Wake: How a Girl Becomes a Ship

Engaging NCOBPS call for papers on "Identity Politics: Gender, Class, Ethnicity, Sexuality, and Religion" I am submitting a paper abstract titled “In the Wake: How a Girl Becomes a Ship.” In this paper I ask what it means for people of African descent in the diaspora to be, or to be said to be, in the wake of Atlantic slavery. I theorize being “in the wake” primarily through, within, and against an image from the aftermath of the 2010 earthquake in Haiti of a young Haitian girl with the word “SHIP” on her forehead. In this work I theorize an aesthetics and politics of "the wake," and I seek to activate the multiple registers of "wake" (to mean keeping watch with the dead, the path of a ship, the consequences of, awakening and coming to consciousness, etc.) as a means to understanding the ways that slavery's violence emerges within the renewed dangers of contemporary conditions of spatial, legal, psychic, material and other dimensions of Black non/Being as well as in Black modes of resistance.
Resistance to Differentiation Therapy

Incorporation of all-trans-retinoic acid (ATRA) into the treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), a type of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), revolutionized the therapy of cancer and introduced the concept of differentiation therapy in the last decade. ATRA, a physiological metabolite of vitamin A (retinol), induces complete clinical remissions (CR) initially in about 90% of patients with APL. In contrast to the cytotoxic chemotherapeutics, ATRA can selectively induce terminal differentiation of promyelocytic leukemia cells into normal granulocytes without causing bone marrow hypoplasia or exacerbation of the frequently occurring fatal hemorrhagic syndromes in patients with APL. Unfortunately, ATRA-induced remissions are transient and most APL patients become quickly resistant to the therapy and relapse, thus limiting the use of ATRA as a single agent. Based on in vitro, in vivo, and clinical observations, several mechanisms including induction of accelerated metabolism of ATRA, decreased bioavailability and plasma drug levels, point mutations in the ligand-binding domain of PML–RARα fusion protein and other molecular events have been proposed to explain resistance to differentiation therapy by ATRA. Although different compounds, such as phorbol ester (TPA), vitamin D3, interferons, and dimethyl sulfoxide can induce differentiation in vitro, ATRA represents the first successful use of differentiation therapy in the clinic; therefore, here we will focus on mechanisms that regulate ATRA-induced myeloid cell differentiation and the molecular mechanisms causing resistance to ATRA and possible clinical approaches to overcome resistance to differentiation.
Studies of the Metabolic Basis of the ATP-DPG Differences in Genetically Selected High and Low ATP-DPG Rat Strains

Red cell ATP and DPG show considerable quantitative variability in human populations. Because DPG and ATP bind to hemoglobin and affect oxygen transport, quantitative variability in these intermediates may result in functional differences in the red cells of various individuals. Earlier work in our laboratory showing a negative correlation between DPG and hemoglobin levels (Eaton and Brewer, 1968) suggests that this is so.
The Online Trolling Ecosystem

As trolling becomes inseparable from modern social media, a renewed effort is needed to unmask and abate the risks of this reality. A proposed taxonomy offers useful clarification.
The kinetics of human glioblastomas maintained in an organ culture system. An in vitro autoradiographic study.

Five human glioblastomas maintained in an organ culture system were studied by autoradiography to determine, after 8 days in vitro, the growth fraction (GF) of the explants, their total cell cycle time (TC) and cell cycle phase durations (TS,TG1,TG2 andTM), and their potential doubling time (Tpot) after pulse-labeling with [3H] TdR for 1 h. These parameters were derived from computer analysis of fraction of labeled mitoses (FLM) curves. The results fell into two groups.
Felix, Regina. Sedução e heroísmo: imaginação de mulher. Entre a República das Letras e a Belle Epoque (1884-1911). Mulheres, 2007.

Regina Felix’s Seducao e heroismo: imaginacao de mulher is a welcome contribution to the historiography of women’s writing in Brazil. Focusing her analysis on four narrative works, two by Maria Benedita Bormann (1853-1895) and two by Emilia Bandeira de Melo (1852-1910), Felix successfully shows how Bormann’s and Melo’s literary representations capture the ongoing changes in societal gender roles, namely the process whereby middle-class Brazilian women moved from the patriarchal “casa grande” to the public sphere of the street, where work issues and political voices prevailed.
THE EFFECTS OF PERCEIVED STIGMA ON PERSONS WITH DEMENTIA AND THEIR FAMILY CAREGIVERS

Over 3 decades, the investigators’ have identified the extent and impact of personal stigma associated with dementia. Multi-state studies support declines in friendship networks and support from religious organizations in persons with dementia (PwD). A longitudinal study with PWD and family caregivers also supports the continuing negative effects of stigma associated with quality of life. Linear mixed model analyses revealed social rejection and social isolation aspects of perceived stigma were most strongly associated with anxiety, behavioral symptoms, depression, personal control, self-esteem, health, and activity participation. Internalized shame was also associated with anxiety, personal control, health, self-esteem, social support understanding and assistance, and activity participation. Unpublished qualitative findings reported in this symposium support the quantitative findings, with PwD describing personal encounters of stigmatizing behaviors of others that reinforce the complexity and impact of personal stigma on relevant outcomes for PwD, and underscore the need to address stigma within the care trajectory.
Empirical likelihood inference for semi-parametric transformation models with length-biased sampling

Abstract The semi-parametric transformation models under length-biased sampling are considered. The well-known proportional hazards model and proportional odds model are special cases of the semi-parametric transformation models. Empirical likelihood and adjusted empirical likelihood inferences for semi-parametric transformation models with length-biased sampling are proposed, and the empirical log-likelihood ratio test statistic is shown to converge to a standard chi-squared distribution. In addition, statistical inferences for the regression parameters are made based on the results. Moreover, extensive simulation studies are carried out. Finally, a real data set is analyzed to illustrate the proposed empirical likelihood and adjusted empirical likelihood methods.
UNIT A8.3 Spondylosis Deformans

This unit presents a basic protocol of conventional and fast spin echo acquisition for detecting spondolysis deformans. The margins of the osteophytosis associated with spondylosis deformans are generally well defined utilizing fast spin echo acquisitions. An alternate protocol is presented for gradient recalled echo acquisitions that may be used in the sagittal and/or transverse planes to clearly distinguish between discs and soft tissue, and to clarify the spinal neural foramen in the cervical region.
Ecological and economic component in the state management of the potential of the regions

The article considers the ecological and economic component as a prerequisite for the sustainable development of regions and the country as a whole, which is one of the most resonant issues of the programs of international environmental forums, an integral part of the economic policy of regional entities. Due to the increase in the population of the planet, the aggravation of the food crisis, the achievement of the goals of natural and economic development is a prerequisite for maintaining stability in the global space. The growth of the tendencies of regionalization of economic relations requires an expansion of the spectrum of state governance instruments that would lay the institutional preconditions for the transformation of regional economies towards the achievement of identified indicators of sustainable development of regions.The ecological and economic situation in Ukraine has its territorial differences both in terms of the nature and severity of the problems, and the possibilities of their practical solution. This implies the objective need for regional differentiation of government management decisions and practical actions aimed at stabilizing and improving the environmental and economic situation. Significant difficulties arise in ensuring the balanced development of transboundary regions, which, in conditions of strengthening integration processes, are most vulnerable to excessive expansion of transnational business entities and unwarranted import of market economy institutions.The basic provisions of the theory of the ecological and economic component in the state management of the natural and economic potential of the regions are formulated. The methodical approaches to determining the level of ecological and economic security of the regions, directions of development of the mechanism of state management of environmental activity at the regional level are determined. Applied tools for the implementation of state management of ecological and economic development of regions have been developed.
Explaining National Trends in Terrestrial Water Storage

Access to fresh water is critical for human well-being, economic activity and, in some cases, political stability. Data from the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) has been used to monitor variability and trends in total water storage. This makes it possible to associate changes in water storage with both climate variability and large scale water management. Recent research has shown that these trends can be associated, globally, with rainfall, irrigation and climate model predictions. This research indicates a need for further investigation into specific human predictors of trends in terrestrial water storage. This paper presents the first global scale analysis of GRACE trends focused on national scale socio-economic predictors of terrestrial water storage. We show that rainfall, irrigation, agricultural characteristics and energy practices all contribute to GRACE trends, and the importance of each differs by country and region. Additionally, this work suggests that other factors such as GDP, population density, urbanization and forest cover do not explain GRACE trends at a national level. Identifying these key predictors aids in understanding trends in water availability and for informing water management policy in a changing climate.
Characterization of boron carbo-nitride films deposited by low temperature chemical vapor deposition

This study reports low temperature chemical vapor deposition of amorphous boron carbonitride films on SiO2 using a dimethylamine borane complex at temperatures ranging from 360 to 500°C and with varying NH3 flow at 360°C. The dielectric constant, k, of the films ranged from 4.11 to 4.83, and increased with temperature while the addition of nitrogen using NH3 decreased k. The index of refraction changed correspondingly with k, ranging from 1.826 to 2.226. Higher substrate temperature caused nitrogen and carbon content to increase with additional bonding to boron. The addition of ammonia increased the N:B ratio to as high as 0.64 and reduced k to 4.11. The higher nitrogen incorporation displaced both boron and carbon in the film, leaving boron bonded primarily to nitrogen and other boron atoms. These films were amorphous with smooth surfaces of RMS roughness ranging from 0.30 nm to 0.53 nm.
Lions of the West, Heroes and Villains of the Westward Expansion

Review of: "Lions of the West, Heroes and Villains of the Westward Expansion," by Robert Morgan.
PARAVALVULAR LEAK INCIDENCE FOLLOWING BALLOON-EXPANDABLE TRANSCATHETER AORTIC VALVE REPLACEMENT ACCORDING TO VALVE SIZE

Paravalvular leak (PVL) is associated with worse outcomes following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), rates of PVL have decreased over time with new valve designs, however less is known about the differences in PVL by valve size and how degree of over/under sizing may effect PVL.
Experimental evaluation of coaxial horizontal axis hydrokinetic composite turbine system

Abstract Hydrokinetic energy conversion systems are emerging as a viable solution for harnessing kinetic energy. However, the typical deployment location is highly space-constrained due to both the nature and the other uses of the river. Therefore, a modified conversion device to overcome these constraints is necessary. The research objective of this work was to evaluate and enhance the performance of multiple coaxial horizontal axis hydrokinetic turbines (HAHkTs) mounted on a single shaft. The hydrodynamic performance of different configurations of single- and multi- HAHkTs with blades made of carbon fiber polymer composites was evaluated in a water tunnel. Increasing the number of rotors of the turbine system from one to two enhanced efficiency by approximately 75% and lowered the operational tip speed ratio. The third rotor also enhanced the efficiency, but the improvement was less (about 32%) due to the slower flow passing this rotor. A duct reducer was also incorporated, and its effect was studied. Finally, the wake behavior and its effect on the multi-turbine system operation were examined by using a particle image velocimetry system. From the structure aspect, composite materials have the appropriate properties that suit the water turbine blades. The composite blades were manufactured using the out-of-autoclave process.
The relationship of the UPPS model of impulsivity on bulimic symptoms and non-suicidal self-injury in transgender youth.

Abstract Objective This brief report examined the relationship of negative urgency (the tendency to act rashly in response to negative emotional states), (lack of) perseverance, (lack of) premeditation, and sensation seeking in association with non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) and symptoms of bulimia nervosa (BN) in a sample of treatment-seeking transgender (TG) youth. Method Eighty-six TG youth with a mean age of 17 (sd = 3.2) agreed to participate in the study. The majority of our sample identified as TG male (n = 60) with 20 participants identifying as TG female and 6 identifying as non-binary. The racial ethnic breakdown of our sample was 8.2% Black, 8.2% Multi-racial, 1.2% Native American, and 82.4% White. Over ¼ of our sample endorsed at least one episode of objective binge eating in the last 28 days and 62% endorsed a history of NSSI. Results Negative urgency was significantly associated with the odds of NSSI, objective binge eating, and general eating disorder symptoms. Lack of premeditation was significantly related to the odds of NSSI only. No other factors were significantly associated with NSSI or symptoms of BN. Conclusions Negative urgency appears to be an important personality construct in understanding increased risk for NSSI and BN symptoms in transgender youth.
A method for computing tolerance intervals for a location-scale family of distributions

The problems of computing two-sided tolerance intervals (TIs) and equal-tailed TIs for a location-scale family of distributions are considered. The TIs are constructed using one-sided tolerance limits with the Bonferroni adjustments and then adjusting the confidence levels so that the coverage probabilities of the TIs are equal to the specified nominal confidence level. The methods are simple, exact and can be used to find TIs for all location-scale families of distributions including log-location-scale families. The computational methods are illustrated for the normal, Weibull, two-parameter Rayleigh and two-parameter exponential distributions. The computational method is applicable to find TIs based on a type II censored sample. Factors for computing two-sided TIs and equal-tailed TIs are tabulated and R functions to find tolerance factors are provided in a supplementary file. The methods are illustrated using a few practical examples.
Pregnancy and Congenital Heart Disease: A Brief Review of Risk Assessment and Management

Cardiac disease is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in pregnant women. An increased prevalence of the cardiovascular disease has been found in women of childbearing age, in which the responsibility of the treating physician extends to the mother and to the unborn fetus. As a result, care of these high-risk pregnant women with cardiovascular disease including those with congenital heart disease (CHD) require a team approach including specialists in maternal-fetal medicine, adult congenital cardiology, and obstetrical anesthesia. The human body undergoes significant amounts of physiological changes during this period of time and the underlying cardiac disease can affect both the mother and the fetus. Today, most female children born with CHD will reach childbearing age. For many women with complex CHD, carrying a pregnancy has a moderate to high risk for both the mother and her fetus. This chapter will review the epidemiology, risk factors, clinical presentation including common signs and symptoms, physiological changes in pregnancy, and the medical approach including cardiac medications, percutaneous interventions, and surgical procedures for pregnant women with CHD.
Fetal Hemoglobin (HbF) Silencer BCL11A Acts through a Novel DNA-Motif in the Gamma-Globin Promoters, Simplifying the Model for Hemoglobin Switching

Abstract Fetal hemoglobin (HbF) level is under strong genetic control. Common genetic variation is associated with modest elevation in HbF levels in adults. Genome-wide association studies led to identification of the regulatory factor BCL11A, which is a major contributor to HbF silencing. Despite clear evidence for its involvement, how BCL11A acts to repress gamma-globin gene expression has remained unknown. Conflicting data exist in the literature with regard to whether BCL11A binds DNA directly and, if so, the sequence(s) it may recognize. Prior experiments from our laboratory suggested that BCL11A acts at a distance from the gamma-globin gene promoters, but failed to define with confidence sites of occupancy within the beta globin locus. To explore mechanisms by which BCL11A functions, we first devised a cellular assay for rescue of BCL11A-deficient erythroid cells with BCL11A cDNA constructs. This approach established that of the two longer BCL11A isoforms (L and XL), only XL (“eXtraLong”) is competent to repress globin expression in cells. XL differs from L by the presence of an alternatively spliced terminal exon encoding three closely spaced zinc-fingers (ZF4-6), implicating this domain in an essential function of the protein. Given that ZFs often mediate sequence-specific DNA-binding, we employed a Protein Binding Microarray platform (PBM) that allows for high-throughput determination of transcription factor binding specificities at high-throughput on an oligonucleotide matrix. We determined that recombinant ZF4-6, as well as BCL11A-XL, binds sequence-specifically to a novel consensus motif with a central core, TGACCA. Two biophysical methods confirmed recognition of this motif by recombinant ZF4-6 with an affinity of ~ 25nM. The motif is present in promoters of all fetal or embryonic-expressed globin genes in human and mouse, and in two copies in each human gamma-globin gene promoter (-119 to -113 and -92 to -86). The motif is altered by single base substitutions in rare HPFH alleles (-117 and -114) and by a microdeletion HPFH (-114 to -102). HPFH-associated single base substitutions greatly impair ZF4-6 binding, therefore strongly implicating a direct role for BCL11A at the gamma-globin gene promoters. However, numerous attempts to localize endogenous BCL11A protein in chromatin of erythroid cells by conventional chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq) proved unsuccessful. To determine if the gamma-globin gene promoters are indeed bound by BCL11A in vivo in erythroid cells, we adapted a newly described method for detection of protein occupancy in chromatin (CUTR Epizyme Inc.: Consultancy.
Liger for next-generation Keck adaptive optics: design of opto-mechanical test chamber

Liger is a next generation adaptive optics (AO) fed integral field spectrograph (IFS) and imager for the W. M. Keck Observatory. This new instrument is being designed to take advantage of the upgraded AO system provided by Keck All-Sky Precision Adaptive-optics (KAPA). Liger will provide higher spectral resolving power (R~4,000- 10,000), wider wavelength coverage ( 0.8-2.4 µm), and larger fields of view than any current IFS. We present the design and analysis for a custom-made dewar chamber for characterizing the Liger opto-mechanical system. This dewar chamber is designed to test and assemble the Liger imaging camera and slicer IFS components while being adaptable for future experiments. The vacuum chamber will operate below 10−5 Torr with a cold shield that will be kept below 90 K. The dewar test chamber will be mounted to an optical vibration isolation platform and further isolated from the cryogenic and vacuum systems with bellows. The cold head and vacuums will be mounted to a custom cart that will also house the electronics and computer that interface with the experiment. This test chamber will provide an efficient means of calibrating and characterizing the Liger instrument and performing future experiments.
Dynamics of a Vector-Borne model with direct transmission and age of infection

In this paper we the study of dynamics of time since infection structured vector born model with the direct transmission. We use standard incidence term to model the new infections. We analyze the corresponding system of partial differential equation and obtain an explicit formula for the basic reproduction number ℜ 0 . The diseases-free equilibrium is locally and globally asymptotically stable whenever the basic reproduction number is less than one, ℜ 0 0 > 1. The disease will persist at the endemic equilibrium whenever the basic reproduction number is greater than one.
THERMAL PERFORMANCE EVALUATION AND ANALYSIS OF THE EFFICIENT and SUSTAINABILITY SHELL AND TUBE HEAT EXCHANGER SYSTEM

Shell and tube heat exchanger (STHE) is one of the most attractive heat exchanger types and widely used in many industrial processes, power generation, and chemical process industries because of the STHE suits the high-pressure applications and harsh environment. STHE porotype consists of a shell with a bundle of tubes and several baffles inside it. The objective of the study is to model and analysis of thermal performance and heat transfer in the advanced STHE system by using ANSYS Fluent along with the experiment. The advanced computational simulation tool, ANSYS Fluent, and AutoCAD were used to model the STHE system along with the one shell (8” diameter), five tubes (1” diameter) and four baffles. In this study, steel was selected for shell materials, copper and brass was compared to select better performance materials for tubes. The constructed STHE model has meshed and analyzed under two mediums (water and biogas) with different thermal conditions. Besides, the experiment results from the STHE prototype were used to investigate conversion efficiency and analyze heat transfer. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) method was used to analyze the significant effect of hot water flow rate and inlet temperature on heat transfer of the STHE prototype. Results from simulation and Karen’s method indicated the heat release of the brass is lower than the copper in the system. Under various operating conditions, experimental results showed the conversion efficiency of the lab-scale STHE is a high range of 0.80-0.86. In addition, ANOVA results indicated that the hot water inlet temperature has a significant effect on heat transfer of STHE prototype.
Implementation of a firearm safety guidance training program for pediatric providers

Abstract Purpose Pediatric unintentional firearm injuries are potentially preventable with firearm safety guidance (FSG). In baseline assessment, we learned that providers feel uncomfortable delivering FSG due to lack of training, but are inclined to learn. Here we present the development and concept testing of an FSG training program. Methods Using Kern's 6 rules of curriculum development, a training template was developed: 1. Program development, 2. Review by multidisciplinary expert team, 3. Concept testing, and 4. Modifications. Foundations included: raising awareness, increasing provider knowledge of safe storage methods, introducing a visual aide (American Academy of Pediatrics [AAP] infographic), and providing examples of guidance delivery. In-person training was provided and modifications made until there was uniform provider satisfaction. Program effectiveness and satisfaction were evaluated through surveys and focus groups. Descriptive statistics and univariate analyses were utilized. Results Over one year, in-person training was provided to 44 pediatric providers (residents and practicing pediatricians) at 8 clinics. Modifications included: addition of a Spanish-version visual aide, instruction on safety device use, simulation scenarios, making the handout more child-friendly, and development of a home safety video to include firearm safety with other topics. Following training, routine FSG by pediatricians increased from 34% to 71% (p = 0.001). Focus groups revealed provider satisfaction with the AAP infographic and increased comfort of FSG delivery. Conclusion Following development and quality improvement, our FSG training model received positive feedback and increased provider delivery by pediatric providers. This model could be used for development of FSG training programs in other settings.
Issues in Robotic System Design for Transplant Production Systems

Design considerations are presented for the development of agricultural robotic handling/processing equipment with emphasis on nursery and greenhouse applications. Topics include human and resource allocation in automation systems, the impact of nonuniformity, sensing to modify and control robot actions, accessing products for processing, economic issues, and transplant system applications.
Genomic activation in differentiated somatic cells.

The process of cellular differentiation in developing multicellular organisms culminates in the formation of specialized somatic cell types. Once cell types acquire a specific cellular phenotype for performing a specialized function, no further changes usually occur. We call this the stability of the differentiated state. It is now widely accepted that the process and stability of cell specialization are under genetic control. But the frequency and extent to which this genetic control involves irreversible genetic changes among eukaryotic animals remain unanswered.
Primary adenocarcinoma, papillary, of fallopian tube

Abstract A primary papillary adenocarcinoma of the Fallopian tube was found in a 74-year-old nulliparous woman. There was no evidence of metastases or spread at the time of operation. The clinical manifestations were similar to those of an ovarian cyst.
Measurement of Productivity Improvements: An Empirical Analysis

In this paper, we test for productivity gains resulting from the introduction of a productivity-based incentive program in a large manufacturing plant of a Fortune 500 corporation. We develop a methodology based on a stochastic nonparametric frontier estimation technique to evaluate productivity in the postincentive plan period relative to the pre-incentive plan period. We also test for productivity gains using stochastic parametric frontier approaches. The results of both the nonparametric and parametric stochastic frontier analyses indicate that the incentive program has a positive effect on indirect labor, manufacturing services, and materials productivity and relatively little effect on direct labor productivity.
Spatial Decentralization and Program Evaluation: Theory and an Example from Indonesia *

This paper proposes a novel instrumental variable method for program evaluation that only requires a single cross-section of data on the spatial intensity of programs and outcomes. The instruments are derived from a simple theoretical model of government decision-making in which governments are responsive to the attributes of places and their populations, rather than to the attributes of individuals, in making allocation decisions across space, and have a social welfare function that is spatially weakly separable, that is, that the budgeting process is multi-stage with respect to administrative districts and sub-districts. The spatial instrumental variables model is then estimated and tested by GMM with a single cross-section of Indonesian census data. The results offer support to the identification strategy proposed.
Scalar Transport in a Longitudinal Vorticity System in Boundary Layers

Scalar transport in a longitudinal vorticity system, exemplified by nonlinear spatially developing Gortler vortices, is discussed. Analogy with the longitudinal momentum problem for unity Prandtl and Schmidt numbers is explored. Mushroom-like flow visualization patterns and enhanced surface heat transfer rates are explainable under this analogy.
Applebaum adaptive array apertures with 2-D IIR space-time circuit-network resonant pre-filters

A modification to the well-known Applebaum adaptive beamformer is proposed employing a low complexity space-time network-resonant IIR beamfiler. The network-resonant filter is a multiple input multiple output (MIMO) linear multidimensional recursive discrete system. It is applied as a pre-filter to an Applebaum adaptive beamformer in order to perform highly directional receive mode beamforming with improved noise and interference rejection. The spatial selectivity (directivity) of the Applebaum beamfomer is enhanced by introducing complex-manifolds from the 2-D IIR beamfilter to the zero-manifold-only transfer function of the adaptive beamformer. This leads to the proposed network-resonant adaptive Applebaum array, which shows angle-dependent levels of additional improvement of output SINR (best case, up to 12 dB improvements, near the end-fire direction). The ability to increase the improvement of the output SINR by 0–12 dB compared the best available adaptive Applebaum beamformer without using additional antenna elements in the array is a useful feature of the scheme. The proposed network-resonant Applebaum adaptive beamformer can be implemented using an upgrade to the digital signal processor without change to the array or RF electronics.
A Rough Set Model for Relational Databases

In recent years it has become increasingly necessary to capture information on uncertainty, imprecision, and ambiguity along with precise values in databases. Fuzzy set theory has been established as a useful tool for representing imprecision and grades of membership. It has also been integrated with the relational database model and proven to be an excellent mechanism for expressing relationships among attribute values and imprecision in querying [1].
GSPS: Architecture, Use, Evolution

Epistemological types of systems that are recognized within the GSPS framework include source systems and their components (object systems, specific and general image systems), data systems, generative systems (behavior systems or ST-systems), structure systems of various types and levels, and metasystems of various types and levels. In addition, each of these systems types can be either neutral or directed.
Mazindol Augmentation of Antipsychotic Treatment for Schizophrenic Patients with Comorbid Cocaine Abuse or Dependence: A Preliminary Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial

Abstract Objectives: Cocaine abuse has a negative impact on the natural history of schizophrenia. There are no proven treatments for cocaine abuse in schizophrenia patients. The catecholamine reuptake inhibitor, mazindol, has been reported to reduce cocaine abuse in some studies. Here we report the results of a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled 6-week pilot study of mazindol augmentation of antipsychotic pharmacotherapy in patients diagnosed with comorbid schizophrenia and cocaine abuse or dependence. Methods: Patients diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder and cocaine abuse or dependence participated in group therapy focused on substance abuse issues and were randomly assigned to mazindol (1 mg tid, increased to 2 mg tid after 1 week) or matched placebo in addition to their current antipsychotic medication for 6 weeks. Results: Twenty-four patients were included in the analysis, with 11 and 13 randomized to the mazindol and placebo groups, respectively. While safe and well-to...
Implementation of a Vertical-Plane Motion Control of an Electrohydraulically-Actuated Single-Flexible-Link Arm

This paper presents an implementation of a nonlinear motion control that was developed for a flexible-single-link arm based on the Equivalent Rigid Link System (ERLS) dynamic model and the inverse dynamics of the arm and the actuator. The arm moves in a vertical plane and is actuated by an electrohydraulic motor. The control scheme is simplified and implemented on a general purpose 16-bit micro-computer. The dynamic behavior of the control system is studied through the computer simulation and the experiment. Furthermore, the superiority of the flexible-body control is also proved through the comparison to the rigid-body control.
Global diversification and bidder gains: A comparison between cross-border and domestic acquisitions

Abstract We provide empirical evidence on how cross-border acquisitions from the perspective of an US acquirer differ from domestic transactions based on stock and operating performance measures. For a sample of 4430 acquisitions between 1985 and 1995 and controlling for various factors we find that US firms who acquire cross-border targets relative to those that acquire domestic targets experience significantly lower announcement stock returns of approximately 1% and significantly lower changes in operating performance. Stock returns are negatively associated with an increase in both global and industrial diversification. Cross-border takeover activity has increased during the past decade and the observed difference in bidder gains is more pronounced for the latter half of the sample period. We find that bidder returns are positively related to takeover activity in the target country and to a legal system offering better shareholder rights. With the exception of the UK, the target country's degree of economic restrictiveness is negatively related to bidder returns.
Generating and modifying DiGeorge syndrome-like phenotypes in model organisms: is there a common genetic pathway?

Most DiGeorge syndrome (DGS) patients have a similar chromosomal 22q11.2 deletion (del22q11) but show great clinical variability, suggesting the presence of genetic modifiers. We review recent mouse studies describing DGS-like phenotypes associated with mutations in genes not included in del22q11. It is reasonable to predict that mutations at these loci in humans might cause DGS in patients without del22q11, or could modify the del22q11 phenotype. We discuss how these loci might interact with the leading DGS candidate gene, the transcription factor Tbx1.