cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Native/Denaturing Two-Dimensional DNA Electrophoresis and Its Application to the Analysis of Recombination Intermediates

Two-dimensional (2D) gel electrophoresis employs distinct electrophoretic conditions to better resolve complex mixtures of molecules. In combination with Southern analysis, 2D agarose gel electrophoresis is routinely employed to detect and analyze DNA intermediates that arise during the replication and repair of chromosomes. By separating intermediates into their component single-strands, native/denaturing 2D gels can reveal structure that is not apparent under native conditions alone. Here, we describe a general method for native/denaturing two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and its application to understanding the DNA strand-composition of recombination intermediates formed during meiosis.
Experimental and Analytical Investigation of Nonlinear Coupled Oscillators under Random Excitation

The nonlinear interaction of a two degree-of-freedom oscillator subjected to a wide band random excitation is investigated analytically and experimentally. The analytical investigation employs the Fokker-Planck equation together with a non-Gaussian closure scheme. The solution predicts response statistics in terms of system parameters and excitation spectral density level. In the experimental study, tests are conducted for long time intervals which are enough to reveal all possible dynamic characteristics of the system. The measured signals are processed to estimate response statistics such as mean squares, spectral densities, and probability density functions. The results show a qualitative agreement between predicted and measured response statistics. Both approaches give common features such as the autoparametric vibration absorbing effect, and nonstationarity in the coupled oscillator statistics. The measured probability density functions show a slight deviation from Gaussian curves.
The Dynamics of Online Consumers’ Response to Price Promotion

How does consumers’ price sensitivity at an online retailer change over time? And can we predict their response to price promotion by identifying the latent states of the online consumer–retailer r...
Self-monitoring processes

Publisher Summary The chapter discusses the identification, consequences, and processes of self-monitoring. Empirical research on self-monitoring processes began with the construction and validation of the Self-Monitoring Scale, an instrument designed to translate the self-monitoring construct in an instrument that reliably and validly identifies it. Self-monitoring is the proposition that individuals can and should exercise control over their expressive behavior, self-presentation, and nonverbal displays of affect. Self-monitoring processes meaningfully channel and influence worldviews, behavior in social situations, and the unfolding dynamics of interactions with other individuals. It is the intent of this chapter to trace the origins and development of the social psychological construct of self-monitoring, to chart the behavioral and interpersonal consequences of self-monitoring, and to probe the cognitive and psychological processes of self-monitoring. The chapter provides some guidelines for conceptualizing and investigating the interplay of individuals and their situations.
Shape Unicode: A Unified Shape Representation

3D shapes come in varied representations from a set of points to a set of images, each capturing different aspects of the shape. We propose a unified code for 3D shapes, dubbed Shape Unicode, that imbibes shape cues across these representations into a single code, and a novel framework to learn such a code space for any 3D shape dataset. We discuss this framework as a single go-to training model for any input representation, and demonstrate the effectiveness of the learned code space by applying it directly to common shape analysis tasks -- discriminative and generative. In this work, we use three common representations -- voxel grids, point clouds and multi-view projections -- and combine them into a single code. Note that while we use all three representations at training time, the code can be derived from any single representation during testing. We evaluate this code space on shape retrieval, segmentation and correspondence, and show that the unified code performs better than the individual representations themselves. Additionally, this code space compares quite well to the representation-specific state-of-the-art in these tasks. We also qualitatively discuss linear interpolation between points in this space, by synthesizing from intermediate points.
Theory of Electromagnetic-Based Communication within Bacterial Communities

A novel model referred to as electromagnetically-coupled system of mechanical oscillators is presented in this paper to unravel the concept of possible electromagnetic-based communication between bacterial cells within bacterial communities (biofilms). This study is motivated by desire to decipher the information transferred between the cells and through such signaling try to control physiological activities of biofilms for treating related diseases efficiently. The Lagrangian technique which is the resultant of Hamilton’s principle is applied to solve the coupled system of electromechanical oscillators representing the structure of a biofilm. Through this formulations, it is shown how individual cells can radiate electromagnetic waves and at which frequency bands. In addition, synchronization phenomena between the cells within biofilm samples through EM coupling is predicted. Our modeling results indicate presence of EM communication between bacteria within kilohertz to gigahertz ranges.
Urinary Self-Catheterization is Not Associated with Increased Risk of Major Complications Following Total Hip and Knee Arthroplasty

Abstract Background The objective of this study is to evaluate urinary self-catheterization as a potential risk factor for postoperative complications following total hip (THA) and knee (TKA) arthroplasty procedures. Methods Self-catheterization patients who underwent total joint arthroplasty from 2005 to 2014 were identified in a national insurance database. Rates of death, hospital readmission, emergency room visit, infection, revision, and dislocation for THA or arthrofibrosis for TKA were calculated, as well as cost and length of stay. Self-catheterizing patients were then compared to a 4:1 matched control cohort using a logistic regression analysis to control for confounding factors. Results Sixty-nine patients underwent THA, and 128 patients who underwent TKA and who actively self-catheterized at the time of surgery were identified. Self-catheterization was not associated with infection, emergency room visits, readmissions, revision surgery, arthrofibrosis, or cost compared to the 4:1 matched control cohort. However, self-catheterization was associated with significantly longer length of stay (difference for THA = 1.91 days, confidence interval = 0.97-2.86, P Conclusion Self-catheterization does not appear to be associated with increased risk of major complications following total joint arthroplasty with the numbers available in this study. Reassurance can be given regarding concerns for infection and other complications following surgery in this patient population.
Dance/movement therapy: A holistic approach to working with the elderly

The purpose of this paper is to examine dance/movement therapy as a holistic approach for working with the elderly. The premise is that dance/movement therapy can play a vital role in the prevention and treatment of illness with the elderly and act as a motivating force for maximizing lifelong growth potential. Therapeutic approaches to physically, emotionally, and intellectually disabled elderly are discussed. The paper concludes that dance/movement therapy with the elderly can be an enlightening experience which can inspire the therapist and clients to face life and death with love and energy.
E-052 Artificial neural network ct perfusion prediction of ischemic core

Background and purpose Computer Tomography Perfusion (CTP) is a useful tool in the evaluation of acute ischemic stroke, where it can provide an estimate of the ischemic core and the ischemic penumbra. The optimal CTP parameters to identify the ischemic core remain undetermined. Methods We utilized Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) to optimally predict the ischemic core in acute stroke patients, using diffusion-weighted imaging as the gold standard. We first designed an ANN based on CTP data alone and next designed an ANN based on clinical and CTP data. Results The ANN based on CTP data predicted the ischemic core with a mean absolute error of 13.8 ml (SD 13.6 ml) compared to DWI. The area under the receiver operator characteristic curve (AUC) was 0.85. At the optimal threshold, the sensitivity for predicting the ischemic core was 0.90 and the specificity was 0.62. Combining CTP data with clinical data available at time of presentation resulted in the same mean absolute error (13.8 ml) but lower SD (12.4 ml). Furthermore, the AUC, sensitivity, and specificity were 0.87, 0.91, and 0.65, respectively. The maximal Dice coefficient was 0.48 in the ANN based on CTP data exclusively. Conclusions An artificial neural network that integrates clinical and CTP data predicts the ischemic core with accuracy. Disclosures A. Kasasbeh: None. S. Christensen: 2; C; Dr. Soren Christensen is an equity shareholders in iSchemaView and perform consulting work for iSchemaView. 4; C; Dr. Soren Christensen is an equity shareholders in iSchemaView and perform consulting work for iSchemaView. M. Lansberg: None.
Acute Pericarditis and Cardiac Tamponade in a Patient with COVID-19: A Therapeutic Challenge

We report a case of acute viral pericarditis and cardiac tamponade in a patient with COVID-19 to highlight the associated treatment challenges, especially given the uncertainty associated with the safety of standard treatment. We also discuss complications associated with delayed diagnosis in patients who potentially may need mechanical ventilation.
Climate anxiety: Psychological responses to climate change

Climate change will affect psychological wellbeing. Substantial research has documented harmful impacts on physical health, mental health, and social relations from exposure to extreme weather events that are associated with climate change. Recently, attention has turned to the possible effects of climate change on mental health through emotional responses such as increased anxiety. This paper discusses the nature of climate anxiety and some evidence for its existence, and speculates about ways to address it. Although climate anxiety appears to be a real phenomenon that deserves clinical attention, it is important to distinguish between adaptive and maladaptive levels of anxiety. A focus on individual mental health should not distract attention from the societal response that is necessary to address climate change.
Structure-Aided Development of Small-Molecule Inhibitors of ENPP1, the Extracellular Phosphodiesterase of the Immunotransmitter cGAMP.

Summary Cancer cells initiate an innate immune response by synthesizing and exporting the small-molecule immunotransmitter cGAMP, which activates the anti-cancer Stimulator of Interferon Genes (STING) pathway in the host. An extracellular enzyme, ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase phosphodiesterase 1 (ENPP1), hydrolyzes cGAMP and negatively regulates this anti-cancer immune response. Small-molecule ENPP1 inhibitors are much needed as tools to study the basic biology of extracellular cGAMP and as investigational cancer immunotherapy drugs. Here, we surveyed structure-activity relationships around a series of cell-impermeable and thus extracellular-targeting phosphonate inhibitors of ENPP1. In addition, we solved the crystal structure of an exemplary phosphonate inhibitor to elucidate the interactions that drive potency. This study yielded several best-in-class inhibitors with Ki
Public–Nonprofit Collaboration in Homeless Services: Are Nonprofit-Led Networks More Effective in Winning Federal Funding?:

Does the nonprofit leadership have an impact on the performance of collaborative networks? This article examines the degree to which nonprofit-led network and other governance characteristics matte...
Three-Dimensional Printing for Preoperative Planning and Pedicle Screw Placement in Adult Spinal Deformity: A Systematic Review.

Study Design:Systematic review.Objectives:This current systematic review seeks to identify current applications and surgical outcomes for 3-dimensional printing (3DP) in the treatment of adult spin...
Metronomic Chemotherapy in Hematological Malignancies

Targeting tumor microenvironment and angiogenesis is a novel therapeutic strategy in hematological malignancies. The antiangiogenic effects of chemotherapeutic agents can be optimized when administered metronomically, by providing low doses of chemotherapeutic drugs on a continuous schedule without extended drug-free intervals. Metronomic chemotherapy preferentially targets endothelial cells of the growing tumor neovasculature instead of tumor cells themselves and therefore can be particularly effective against multidrug-resistant tumors. Metronomic therapy may further enhance immune response by modulating antitumor NK/T-cell functions. The past decade saw an increasing appreciation of the pathogenic roles that tumor angiogenesis plays in hematological malignancies including leukemias, lymphomas, and multiple myeloma. Experimentation with a variety of antiangiogenesis modalities has shown encouraging efficacy with metronomic chemotherapy in these disease categories, with generally low toxicity and cost. With the growing availability of the target-specific biological agents, some of which are specific for antiangiogenesis, it is conceivable that metronomic chemotherapy, either alone or in combination with biologics, has therapeutic potential in frontline and maintenance setting, in addition to its traditional role of salvage option for relapsed diseases in hematological malignancies.
Generating Ins2+/-/miR-133aTg Mice to Model miRNA-Driven Cardioprotection of Human Diabetic Heart.

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is caused either due to insulin deficiency (T1DM) or insulin resistance (T2DM). DM increases the risk of heart failure by diabetic cardiomyopathy (DMCM), a cardiac muscle disorder that leads to a progressive decline in diastolic function, and ultimately systolic dysfunction. Mouse models of T1DM and T2DM exhibit clinical signs of DMCM. Growing evidence implicates microRNA (miRNA), an endogenous, non-coding, regulatory RNA, in the pathogenesis and signaling of DMCM. Therefore, inhibiting deleterious miRNAs and mimicking cardioprotective miRNAs could provide a potential therapeutic intervention for DMCM. miRNA-133a (miR-133a) is a highly abundant miRNA in the human heart. It is a cardioprotective miRNA, which is downregulated in the DM heart. It has anti-hypertrophic and anti-fibrotic effects. miR-133a mimic treatment after the onset of early DMCM can reverse histological and clinical signs of the disease in mice. We hypothesized that overexpression of cardiac-specific miR-133a in Ins2+/- Akita (T1DM) mice can prevent progression of DMCM. Here, we describe a method to create and validate cardiac-specific Ins2+/-/miR-133aTg mice to determine whether cardiac-specific miR-133a overexpression prevents development of DMCM. These strategies demonstrate the value of genetic modeling of human disease such as DMCM and evaluate the potential of miRNA as a therapeutic intervention.
Ten-year cardiovascular risk among cancer survivors: The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

Background Cancer survivors have a higher risk of developing and dying from cardiovascular disease (CVD) compared to the general population. We sought to determine whether 10-year risk of atherosclerotic CVD (ASCVD) is elevated among those with vs. without a cancer history in a nationally representative U.S. sample. Methods Participants aged 40–79 years with no CVD history were included from the 2007–2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Cancer history was self-reported and 10-year risk of ASCVD was estimated using Pooled Cohort Equations. We used logistic regression to estimate associations between cancer history and odds of elevated (≥7.5%) vs. low (<7.5%) 10-year ASCVD risk. An interaction between age and cancer history was examined. Results A total of 15,095 participants were included (mean age = 55.2 years) with 12.3% (n = 1,604) reporting a cancer history. Individuals with vs. without a cancer history had increased odds of elevated 10-year ASCVD risk (OR = 3.42, 95% CI: 2.51–4.66). Specifically, those with bladder/kidney, prostate, colorectal, lung, melanoma, or testicular cancer had a 2.72–10.47 higher odds of elevated 10-year ASCVD risk. Additionally, age was an effect modifier: a cancer history was associated with 1.24 (95% CI: 1.19–4.21) times higher odds of elevated 10-year ASCVD risk among those aged 60–69, but not with other age groups. Conclusions Adults with a history of self-reported cancer had higher 10-year ASCVD risk. ASCVD risk assessment and clinical surveillance of cardiovascular health following a cancer diagnosis could potentially reduce disease burden and prolong survival, especially for patients with specific cancers and high ASCVD risk.
Aesthetic Preference for Glossy Materials: An Attempted Replication and Extension.

The psychology of art and aesthetics has a long-standing interest in how low-level features, such as symmetry, curvature, and color, affect people’s aesthetic experience. Recent research in this tradition suggests that people find glossy, shiny objects and materials more attractive than flat, matte ones. The present experiment sought to replicate and extend research on the attractiveness of images printed on glossy and flat paper. To control for several possible confounding factors, glossiness was manipulated between-person and varied with methods that held constant factors like weight, color quality, and resolution. To extend past work, we explored art expertise and Openness to Experience as potential moderators. A sample of 100 adults viewed landscape photographs on either high-gloss photo paper or on identical paper in which a flat, matte spray finish had been applied. Ratings of attractiveness showed weak evidence for replication. People rated the glossy pictures as more attractive than the matte ones, but the effect size was small (d = −0.23 [−0.62, 0.16]) and not statistically significant. Attractiveness ratings were significantly moderated, however, by individual differences in the aesthetic appreciation facet of Openness to Experience. When aesthetic appreciation was high, people found the images attractive regardless of condition; when it was low, people strongly preferred the glossy images over the matte ones, thus showing the classic glossiness effect. We conclude with some methodological caveats for future research.
On infinite homoclinic orbits induced by unstable periodic orbits in the Lorenz system

In this paper, infinite homoclinic orbits existing in the Lorenz system are analytically presented. Such homoclinic orbits are induced by unstable periodic orbits on bifurcation trees through period-doubling cascades. Each unstable periodic orbit ends at its corresponding homoclinic orbit. Traditional computational methods cannot obtain homoclinic orbits from the corresponding unstable periodic orbits. This is because unstable periodic orbits in the Lorenz system cannot be achieved in numerical simulations. Herein, the stable and unstable periodic motions to chaos on the period-doubling cascaded bifurcation trees are determined through a discrete mapping method. The corresponding homoclinic orbits induced by the unstable periodic orbits are predicted analytically. A period-doubling bifurcation tree of period-1, period-2, and period-4 motions are generated as an example. The homoclinic orbits relative to unstable period-1, period-2, and period-4 motions are determined. Illustrations of homoclinic orbits and periodic orbits are given. This study presents how to determine infinite homoclinic orbits through unstable periodic orbits in three-dimensional or higher-dimensional nonlinear systems.
A connectivity-constrained computational account of topographic organization in high-level visual cortex

Abstract Inferotemporal cortex (IT) in humans and other primates is topographically organized, with multiple domain-selective areas and other general patterns of functional organization. What factors underlie this organization, and what can this neural arrangement tell us about the mechanisms of high level vision? Here, we present an account of topographic organization involving a computational model with two components: 1) a feature-extracting encoder model of early visual processes, followed by 2) a model of high-level hierarchical visual processing in IT subject to specific biological constraints. In particular, minimizing the wiring cost on spatially organized feedforward and lateral connections within IT, combined with constraining the feedforward processing to be strictly excitatory, results in a hierarchical, topographic organization. This organization replicates a number of key properties of primate IT cortex, including the presence of domain-selective spatial clusters preferentially involved in the representation of faces, objects, and scenes, within-domain topographic organization such as animacy and indoor/outdoor distinctions, and generic spatial organization whereby the response correlation of pairs of units falls off with their distance. The model supports a view in which both domain-specific and domain-general topographic organization arise in the visual system from an optimization process that maximizes behavioral performance while minimizing wiring costs.
Defective NK cell expansion, cytotoxicity, and lack of ability to differentiate tumors from a pancreatic cancer patient in a long term follow-up: implication in the progression of cancer

The majority of the previous reports on NK cells use cross-sectional studies to establish the status of patient NK cell function, however such studies fail to evaluate the immune status of the patients on a continuous basis from the disease-free stage to progression of cancer. In this study, we performed a prospective study of the immune function by continuously monitoring the NK numbers, expansion and function of a pancreatic cancer patient from 1/6/2016 to 2/14/2019. The results indicated that at initial stages of the disease where no overt disease was identified, the patient had consistently higher percentages of NK and B cells and lower percentages of CD3 + T cells in the peripheral blood. The percentages of CD14 + monocytes were similar at the initial stages of the disease, and at the later stages of the disease, it increased and remained higher in the patient when compared to those from healthy donors. The numbers of expanded NK cells and the cytotoxic function, as well as secretion of IFN-γ from primary and osteoclast expanded patient NK cells remained consistently low throughout the years of follow up. Similarly, the majority of cytokines in patient’s serum remained lower with the exception of IL-6 which was higher. The IFN-γ secreted from the patients’ NK cells had much lower ability to differentiate the poorly differentiated oral tumors as assessed by their lack of ability to upregulate differentiation antigens. Overall, before any evidence of overt disease, patient NK cells exhibited significant dysfunction. Intervention at the stage of no disease or minimal disease may be important for the prevention of pancreatic cancer progression.
Urban Industrial Tax Subsidies: A Noncooperative Equilibrium Approach

Abstract This paper provides a model of firm and city governmental behavior which predicts tax subsidies to firms as a result of non-cooperative equilibrium behavior on the part of both firms and the government. The total amount of subsidies given in this non-cooperative equilibrium is greater than the subsidies which would be offered if urban governments acted cooperatively. The model has four-stage sequential decision making with the behavior of the urban government modeled as the hierarchal actions of a city council and a community development agency. The non-cooperative equilibrium in the model is a four-stage perfect equilibrium.
Microporous Coating by Dual-Stage Electroplating to Enhance Pool Boiling Performance of Saturated R-123 and FC-72

The present study describes a dual-stage electroplating method developed to construct numerous active nucleation sites on a target surface for the purpose of enhancing the pool boiling heat transfer performance. Electroplating with high current densities (0.17 ∼ 1.2 A/cm2) builds micro-scale copper dendrites and nodules on the base surface (oxygen free copper) and low current density electroplating (fixed, 0.05 A/cm2) follows to achieve the strong bonding strength of the micro-structures, which enable the coating to be robust in terms of corrosion and endurance. Pool boiling experiments show that the electroplated surfaces extend the boiling critical heat flux by 40∼70% for two working fluids tested and augment the boiling heat transfer coefficients by ∼700% and ∼600% in saturated R-123 and FC-72, respectively, at atmospheric pressure over a baseline (plain surface).Copyright © 2014 by ASME
A Real Time Object-Oriented Rational Agent Development System

A real-time object-oriented agent development system (ROADS) is being developed and used to build embedded distributed rational agents in a manner that is difficult or not possible to build with existing agent development environments(ADEs). Some ROADS innovations include the use of a theory of objects as a foundation on which; (1)different agent development languages can be defined and used within a single ADE; (2)computational models of beliefs desires and intentions can be implemented (3)possible world semantics are readily supported, (4)reactivity and responsiveness are under direct dynamic control of the agent applications; and (5)a formal foundation to model cooperative multi-agent applications is provided. ROADS has been successfully used in several complex applications such as distance learning, high-level telecommunications network management, and eventing systems.
INTERFERON-α AND TRANSFORMING GROWTH FACTOR-β1 REGULATE CORTICOTROPIN-RELEASING FACTOR RELEASE FROM THE AMYGDALA: COMPARISON WITH THE HYPOTHALAMIC RESPONSE*

Interferon-alpha (IFN-alpha) and transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-beta 1) have been reported in different brain regions. The amygdala contains high levels of corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) and has been implicated as a central site for its stress-related autonomic and behavioral response. IFN-alpha will release arginine vasopressin (AVP) from both amygdala and hypothalamus, which further supports a role for the amygdala in neuroimmune interactions. In the present study, we compared the effects of these cytokines on the in vitro release of CRF from the amygdala and hypothalamus. In addition, we evaluated the possible involvement of guanylate cyclase-mediated signaling in CRF release. IFN-alpha stimulates CRF release from both amygdala and hypothalamus. The CRF release by IFN-alpha, Interleukin-2 (IL-2) and acetylcholine is blocked by guanylate cyclase inhibitors, indicating a role for cGMP accumulation in this CRF release. TGF-beta 1 had no effect on basal release of CRF, nor on the CRF-release induced by IL-2, but selectively blocked the acetylcholine-induced release in both amygdala and hypothalamus. Taken with a previous report that TGF-beta 1 specifically inhibits AVP release by acetylcholine, these results suggest that TGF-beta 1 may modulate HPA axis activation, by antagonizing (acetylcholine-evoked) CRF and AVP release. These data further support a role for the amygdala in the bidirectional communication between neuroendocrine and immune system.
Stereospecificity in the Enzymatic Conversion of Δ7-Cholesten-3β-ol to 7-Dehydrocholesterol

[6β-3H]-Δ7-Cholesten-3β-ol and [6β-2H]-Δ7-cholesten-3β-ol have been prepared by chemical synthesis. Reduction of 7-dehydrocholesterol by diimide has been found to yield Δ7-cholesten-3β-ol. With the use of this reaction we have prepared [4-14C]-Δ7-cholesten-3β-ol, [5α,6α-3H]-Δ7-cholesten-3β-ol, and [5α,6α-2H]-Δ7-cholesten-3β-ol. Virtually complete retention of labeled hydrogen of [4-14C], [6β-3H]-Δ7-cholesten-3β-ol was observed upon enzymatic conversion to 7-dehydrocholesterol and cholesterol. The location of the tritium at carbon atom 6 of cholesterol was established by the virtually complete loss of labeled hydrogen upon conversion of the 3H-cholesterol to 6-nitrocholesteryl nitrate. The enzymatic conversion of [4-14C], [5α,6α-3H]-Δ7-cholesten-3β-ol to 7-dehydrocholesterol and cholesterol occurred with complete loss of labeled hydrogen. A simple method is described for the rapid removal of 7-dehydrocholesterol from samples of Δ7-cholesten-3β-ol. A significant chromatographic fractionation of 7-dehydrocholesterol and cholesterol labeled with tritium at carbon atom 6 from the same compounds labeled with 14C at carbon atom 4 or containing no isotopic label was observed on columns of alumina impregnated with silver nitrate.
La producción del estado de malestar. Ajuste y politica social en América Latina

This work presents some recent information that documents the regressive effects of the external debt, and deals with promoting reflection upon the so called State of Adversity, which by means of political regulation, (and contrary to the classic State of Welfare), is being created in the Region. This workalsoputs forth some points which seem inevitable in the still open debate regarding the growth-equity relationship in Latin America. Firstly, a revision of the principal social and economic indicators is made beginning with the early years of this decade ('90). Secondly, the inserted patterns of regulation are synthetically introduced; and some of the results and problems are analyzed. Thirdly, and as an effect of successive regulation implementations that have not accomplished the desired macroeconomic equilibrium (nor economic growth), the creation of the State of Adversity is analyzed by means of looking at the desintegration that takes place in the incipient State of Wellbeing that exists in the Region. This disjointed situation brings with it a significant reduction in the quantity and quality of social services in the public sector and the exclusion of an even greater segment of the population (those pertaining to a characteristically subsistence level economy and low productivity). We do not deny the need for regulation, nor do we belive that it should encompass the social sectors, where significant financial allotments geared to combat suffering and poverty, at the same time, have not been unable to avoid their expansion (not to mention the total elimination of same). The problem here lies not in regulation, but in what kind of regulation and for whom. Finally, this workpresents some ideas on mixed economy of wellbeing which could recover the potential of the public sector and market by urging a collective macroregulation that would make possible the needed investments to finance a growth with greater social integration.
Space efficient list merging on a multiprocessor ring

Algorithms are considered for a multiprocessor ring consisting of a moderate number of processors, each with a large private memory. The data in the lists are distributed equally among the processor memories, with each processor holding a contiguous segment of the list. The process of merging the two lists is described in terms of lattice paths. Addition of symbolic polynomials is used as the prototypical merging application. Two algorithms are described for merging. Both move the list elements so that a standard sequential algorithm can be applied locally. The first shifts both lists simultaneously so as to achieve alignment. The second uses a variant of odd-even merging. The time complexity of the alignment operation is shown to be linear in the length of the smaller list. >
Metabolite sensing in eukaryotic mRNA biology.

All living creatures change their gene expression program in response to nutrient availability and metabolic demands. Nutrients and metabolites can directly control transcription and activate second-messenger systems. More recent studies reveal that metabolites also affect post-transcriptional regulatory mechanisms. Here, we review the increasing number of connections between metabolism and post-transcriptional regulation in eukaryotic organisms. First, we present evidence that riboswitches, a common mechanism of metabolite sensing in bacteria, also function in eukaryotes. Next, we review an example of a double stranded RNA modifying enzyme that directly interacts with a metabolite, suggesting a link between RNA editing and metabolic state. Finally, we discuss work that shows some metabolic enzymes bind directly to RNA to affect mRNA stability or translation efficiency. These examples were discovered through gene-specific genetic, biochemical, and structural studies. A directed systems level approach will be necessary to determine whether they are anomalies of evolution or pioneer discoveries in what may be a broadly connected network of metabolism and post-transcriptional regulation. WIREs RNA 2013, 4:387–396. doi: 10.1002/wrna.1167 Conflict of interest: The authors have declared no conflicts of interest for this article. For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website.
Slug tests in site characterization; some practical considerations

Abstract The slug test is currently the most common method for the in situ estimation of hydraulic conductivity at sites of suspected groundwater contamination. However, it is widely recognized that the quality of the parameter estimates obtained using this technique can vary tremendously. The success of a program of slug tests critically depends on well installation and development procedures, as field data have shown repeatedly that low-permeability (low-K) well skins are the largest source of error in slug test estimates. Theoretical analyses have demonstrated that hydraulic conductivity estimates from slug tests in wells with low-K skins are often of limited value, regardless of the particular approach used to analyze the response data. It is therefore imperative that a low-K skin be identified through a program of repeat slug tests. Recently, a series of practical guidelines for the performance and analysis of slug tests has been developed at the Kansas Geological Survey in an attempt to improve the quality of slug test estimates. A subset of these guidelines was presented in Butler et al. (1996). Additional guidelines of relevance to the field practitioner are described here.
Biochemical Studies of Proteins in Nondeveloped, Partially Developed, and Developed Doughs

ABSTRACT Nondeveloped, partially developed with shear and extensional deformations, and developed doughs represent different stages of dough development. To understand the relationship between gluten proteins and dough rheology, this study used disulfide-sulfhydryl analyses, gel filtration chromatography, SDS-PAGE, acid polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (A-PAGE), and densitometry to examine proteins in the four types of doughs mentioned. Free sulfhydryl content was the lowest in native flour and nondeveloped dough, and the highest in partially developed doughs, while a reverse trend was observed for disulfide content. For each flour sample, the protein elution profile from gel filtration chromatography shifted with the level of dough development. With respect to the smallest sized molecules, native flour had the most, followed by nondeveloped, partially developed, and then developed doughs. SDS-PAGE and A-PAGE exhibited similar protein patterns among the same chromatographed protein fractions of each nat...
Using the End-User Computing Satisfaction (EUCS) Instrument to Measure Satisfaction With a Web Site

The purpose of this study is to revise and revalidate the End-User Computing Satisfaction (EUCS) instrument to measure satisfaction with a Web site from a usability perspective. This study is especially important given the increased significance of the Web and the uniqueness of the Web as a computing environment. A total of 176 students participated in a lab simulation that involved a usability evaluation of the Lands' End Web site (http://www.landsend.com). Students were asked to complete a set of tasks, record their answers, and then complete the EUCS instrument. Confirmatory factor analysis and invariance analyses were conducted to test the reliability, validity, and generalizability of the revised EUCS. The results show that the EUCS is a valid and robust instrument in the Web environment but that one of the subfactors, timeliness, will need further refinement in the future. Usability practitioners can use the EUCS to measure end-user satisfaction with a Web site and use the feedback for improving Web-site design. We describe a case study of an actual usability application that utilized the revised EUCS effectively to support the design of building supply Web sites involving two types of end users, homeowners and contractors. We also propose a typology that researchers can use as a starting point to judge when it is necessary to revalidate an instrument like the EUCS. Finally, we discuss the limitations of our study and present avenues for future research.
Aging and Medical Adherence: The Use of Automatic Processes to Achieve Effortful Things.

This research examined whether forming detailed implementation plans for achieving a goal improved older adults' adherence to a health behavior. Nondiabetic participants (N = 31) rehearsed, deliberated, or formed implementation intentions to perform home blood glucose monitoring, 4 times daily for 3 weeks. The implementation group performed tests nearly 50% more often than the 2 comparison groups. Results were not attributable to a priori differences in intentions to perform testing. Findings indicate that implementation intentions can facilitate older adults' performance of important medical self-care tasks in naturalistic settings over sustained periods of time and concur with previous research that implicates automatic cognitive processes that do not show age-related decline. These results support the utility of this technique for improving adherence to health behaviors in clinical populations.
Slow step after bond-breaking by porcine pepsin identified using solvent deuterium isotope effects.

Abstract The relatively fast artificial substrate Leu-Ser-ϱ-nitro-Phe-Nle-Ala-Leu-OMe generates a solvent isotope effect of 1.51 ± 0.02 only on the maximal velocity of peptide hydrolysis catalyzed by porcine pepsin (EC 3.4.23.1). The absence of an isotope effect on V K places the isotopically-sensitive step after peptide bond cleavage and the release of the first product. Reprotonation of the active site aspartic carboxyls is proposed as the most likely interpretation of this observation. Structural and kinetic similarities between pepsin and other aspartic proteinases, including the therapeutically important targets HIV protease and renin, suggest a similar slow reprotonation step after catalysis. This mechanistic feature has important implications regarding inhibitor design; if most of the enzymes are present in a product-release form during steady-state turnover, then perhaps inhibitors should be designed as product analogs instead of substrate analogs.
Are there real differences between Antarctic finds and modern falls meteorites

Abstract Recent reports of differences between Antarctic and non-Antarctic meteorite collections include some based on mass frequency distributions and relative abundances of types. Using the modern falls of Harvey and Cassidy (1989) as a model of what a meteorite collection free of post-fall processing should be like, we compare the relative abundance of different types of stony meteorites for the Antarctic finds and the modern falls. Reconstructing the Antarctic mass-frequency distributions using a model based on field observations of Antarctic meteorite loss due to weathering, wind transport, and search inefficiencies, we create an idealized Antarctic meteorite mass frequency distribution that is identical in shape (essentially lognormal) to the modern falls. Using our model we find no difference between the Antarctic finds and modern falls, within reasonable estimates of error.
Perceived Quality of Life: A Neglected Component of Assessments and Intervention Plans for Students in School Settings

The relevance and contribution of the construct of quality of life to assessments and intervention plans for children and youth in school settings are discussed. Theory, measurement, and research related to perceived quality of life (PQOL) are reviewed leading to the contention that PQOL information contributes incremental validity above and beyond traditional deficit-based information. The use of PQOL in assessments, treatment planning, and monitoring of the well-being of students in school settings warrants further consideration to provide more comprehensive assessment-intervention activities.
Electropolymerization of Methylene Blue Investigated Using On‐Line Electrochemistry/Electrospray Mass Spectrometry

The initial products of the electrochemical polymerization of methylene blue were studied using a thin-layer flow cell coupled on-line with electrospray mass spectrometry. A potentiostatic technique was applied to initiate the polymerization while the soluble n-mers generated were monitored by mass spectrometry. Methylene blue dimers and trimers were observed at m/z values consistent with either “nitrogen-to-ring” coupling of the monomers or with “ring-to-ring” coupling of demethylated monomers during the electropolymerization. Experiments accomplished in D2O-based solutions prove that “nitrogen-to-ring” coupling is the dominant process.
On the out-of-plane vibrations of thick rotating rings

Equations of motion for the out-of-plane vibrations of rotating thick circular rings are derived. The effects of shear deformation and rotatory inertia are included in the formulation. Natural frequencies are obtained and indicate the effects of the rotation, the shear deformation, and the rotatory inertia. In particular, the relative contributions of the centrifugal and Coriolis acceleration terms to the natural frequencies are examined.
Paper as a positive reinforcer for acquisition of a bar press response by the golden hamster

Six Golden hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus) learned to depress a lever in order to obtain small strips of paper which were subsequently used in building their nests. A second, yoked control experiment showed that the contingency between the lever press and paper delivery, not a rise in general activity, controlled the response rate.
Determinants of pulmonary hypertension in left ventricular dysfunction.

Objectives. This study sought to analyze the determinants of pulmonary hypertension in patients with left ventricular dysfunction. Background. Pulmonary hypertension in patients with left ventricular dysfunction is a predictor of poor outcome. The independent role of cardiac functional abnormalities in the genesis of pulmonary hypertension is unclear. Methods. In 102 consecutive patients with primary left ventricular dysfunction (ejection fraction <50%), systolic pulmonary artery pressure was prospectively measured by Doppler echocardiography (using tricuspid regurgitant velocity), and left ventricular systolic and diastolic function, functional mitral regurgitation, cardiac output and left atrial volume were quantified. Results. Systolic pulmonary artery pressure was elevated in patients with left ventricular dysfunction (51 ± 14 mm Hg [mean ± SD]), but the range was wide (23 to 87 mm Hg). Of the numerous variables correlating significantly with systolic pulmonary artery pressure, the strongest were mitral deceleration time (r = −0.61, p = 0.0001; odds ratio of pulmonary pressure ≥50 mm Hg [95% confidence interval] if <150 ms, 48.8 [14.8 to 161]) and mitral effective regurgitant orifice (r = 0.50, p = 0.0001; odds ratio [95% confidence interval] if ≥20 mm2, 5.9 [2.3 to 15.5]). In multivariate analysis, these two variables were the strongest predictors of systolic pulmonary artery pressure in association with age (p = 0.005). Ejection fraction or end-systolic volume was not an independent predictor of pulmonary artery pressure. Conclusions. Pulmonary hypertension is frequent and highly variable in patients with left ventricular dysfunction. It is not independently related to the degree of left ventricular systolic dysfunction but is strongly associated with diastolic dysfunction (shorter mitral deceleration time) and the degree of functional mitral regurgitation (larger effective regurgitant orifice). These results emphasize the importance of assessing diastolic function and quantifying mitral regurgitation in patients with left ventricular dysfunction. (J Am Coll Cardiol 1997;29:153–9)>
Right Ventricular Dysfunction in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Cellular and Hemodynamic Changes in a Mouse Model

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is the most severe form of pulmonary hypertension due to its rapid progression to right ventricular (RV) failure. Until the recent combination of chronic hypoxia with VEGF receptor blockage by SU5416 [1], there was no mouse model for severe PAH. This new model (HySu) recapitulates hallmarks of human PAH, especially distal arteriolar neointima formation and obliteration [1]. However, the changes in RV function in this model have not been examined. Here we investigate the hypothesis that the HySu mouse model mimics the progression of RV dysfunction found in PAH clinically from compensatory to maladaptive RV remodeling.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
Effect of membrane and cytoskeleton modification on the heat response of BP-8 murine sarcoma cells

Mammalian cells subjected to hyperthermia in the presence of glycerol exhibit greatly enhanced resistance to thermal death. The mechanisms responsible for this effect remain unknown, but it has been suggested that glycerol may act by stabilizing cell membranes or by preventing heat induced disruption of cytoskeletal networks. To test these hypotheses, BP-8 murine sarcoma cells were treated with various combinations of glycerol, procaine, colcemid, and cytochalasin B, followed by 1 hour in vitro heating at temperatures ranging from 37°C to 45.5°C. After heating, the tumor cells were inoculated intraperitoneally into mice and cell survival was evaluated in vivo with the125I-iododeoxyuridine prelabeling assay. Addition of 5% glycerol to the incubation medium caused a pronounced increase in the heat resistance of BP-8 cells. Exposure to colcemid (microtubule disrupting agent) or cytochalasin B (micro-filament disrupting agent) did not influence the thermal response of control cells, nor did it counteract the protective effects of glycerol. This suggests that the ability of heat to dissociate cytoskeletal networks may not be an important factor in cellular heat death. In contrast, treatment with the membrane modulator procaine induced significant thermal sensitization in control cells, and caused a complete reversal of the protective action of glycerol. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that membranes play an important role in the genesis of cellular heat death.
The recent rise in malay fertility: A new trend or a temporary lull in a fertility transition?

Period fertility rates show a recent rise in the fertility of the Malay population of Peninsular Malaysia that became evident in the late 1970s, after more than fifteen years of slow but steady declines. Detailed analysis of age-parity-specific fertility rates suggests that the recent rise is largely due to a “making up” of lower order births (first, second, and third) that had been postponed by a rapid increase in age at marriage. The period trend in higher order births and cohort trends of cumulative fertility from census data point to a continued reduction in completed Malay fertility. Regional analysis shows several states on the east coast with persistent high fertility, although the revolution in marital postponement is national in scope.