cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Late Relapses in Acute Myelogenous Leukemia: Analysis of Characteristics and Outcome.

Abstract The majority of patients with acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) who achieve complete remission (CR) with initial chemotherapy will eventually relapse. Most relapses occur in the first three years and rare patients relapse after being in CR for more than 5 years. We have reviewed retrospectively 2347 patients with AML treated at M D Anderson Cancer Center from January 1980 to July 2008. Of the total cohort, 1366 patients achieved CR and among these 942 patients relapsed. We identified 11 patients (1.16%) who relapsed after being in CR >5 years; these patients are the focus of this analysis. There were 4 females and 7 males. Their median age was 66 years (range 37–79), and their median presentation white blood cell (WBC) count was 2.3 x109/L (range, 1.1–92.3). The FAB classification was M2 in 5 patients, M1, M4, M5, M6 in 1 patient each, and unknown in 2 patients. Initial cytogenetics were diploid in 6, del(7q) in one, miscellaneous in 1, and unavailable in 3 patients. Initial therapy was with combination of idarubicin (Ida) and cytarabine (Ara-C) in 4 patients (1 with additional fludarabine), amsacrine based in 3, daunorubicin (Dauno) single agent in 2 and other agents in 2 patients. All patients except one achieved CR after the first induction course; one patient needed 2 cycles of induction to achieve CR. None underwent an allogeneic stem cell transplant in first CR. The median duration of CR was 81 months (range, 60–137). At the time of relapse, median WBC count was 4.4 x109/L (range 1.7–48.8). Karyotype at relapse was diploid in 2, del(5)del(7) in 1, del(6)del(7) in 1, trisomy 8 in 1, hyperdiploid in 2, add(2q) and add(6q) in 1 each and unavailable in 2 patients. The karyotype at relapse was different from the initial finding in 8 of 8 patients with available data at both time points. Treatment for relapse included Ida (or Dauno) with Ara-C in 8 patients (1 with additional fludarabine), and other agents in 3 patients. The response to treatment was CR in 4, partial remission in 2, resistant in 4 and unknown in 1. No patient underwent an allogeneic stem cell transplant in second CR. The median duration of the second CR was 2 months (range 0–37). The median survival after relapse was 6.4 months (range 1–39). Median survival from initial diagnosis of AML was 107 months (range 68–143). We conclude that late relapses in AML (>5 years after CR) are infrequent (1.16% of all relapses) and response to their subsequent therapy is poor; best responses occur with a regimen similar to the initial induction regimen. The karyotype at relapse is frequently different raising the question of a second AML versus relapse with the original clone.
Buying to Blunt Negative Feelings: Materialistic Escape from the Self:

We propose that escape theory, which describes how individuals seek to free themselves from aversive states of self-awareness, helps explain key patterns of materialistic people's behavior. As predicted by escape theory, materialistic individuals may feel dissatisfied with their standard of living, cope with failed expectations and life stressors less effectively than others, suffer from aversive self-awareness, and experience negative emotions as a result. To cope with negative, self-directed emotions, materialistic people may enter a narrow, cognitively deconstructed mindset in order to temporarily blunt the capacity for self-reflection. Cognitive narrowing decreases inhibitions thereby engendering impulsivity, passivity, irrational thought, and disinhibited behaviors, including maladaptive consumption.
Adaptive data center activation with user request prediction

Abstract The problem of energy saving in data centers has recently attracted significant interest within the research community, and the adaptive data center activation model has emerged as a promising technique to save energy. However, this model has not integrated adaptive activation of switches and hosts in data centers because of its complexity. This paper proposes an adaptive data center activation model that consolidates adaptive activation of switches and hosts simultaneously integrated with a statistical request prediction algorithm. The learning algorithm predicts user requests in a predetermined interval by using a cyclic window learning algorithm. Then the data center activates an optimal number of switches and hosts in order to minimize power consumption that is based on prediction. We designed an adaptive data center activation model by using a cognitive cycle composed of three steps: data collection, prediction, and activation. In the request prediction step, the prediction algorithm forecasts a Poisson distribution parameter λ in every predetermined interval by using Maximum Likelihood Estimation (MLE) and Local Linear Regression (LLR) methods. Then, adaptive activation of the data center is implemented with the predicted parameter in every interval. The adaptive activation model is formulated as a Mixed Integer Linear Programming (MILP) model. Switches and hosts are modeled as M/M/1 and M/M/c queues. In order to minimize power consumption of data centers, the model minimizes the number of activated switches, hosts, and memory modules while guaranteeing Quality of Service (QoS). Since the problem is NP-hard, we use the Simulated Annealing algorithm to solve the model. We employ Google cluster trace data to simulate our prediction model. Then, the predicted data is employed to test the adaptive activation model and observe energy saving rate in every interval. In the experiment, we could observe that the adaptive activation model saves 30–50% of energy compared to the full operation state of data centers in practical operating conditions of data centers.
Temperature derivatives at constant volume of the elastic constants of the alkali halides

Abstract Values of dC/dT)V have been computed from experimental dC/dT)P and dC/dP)T for the three elastic constants (expressed as B T , C 44 and (C 11 −C 12 ) 2) of each of the 16 Li, Na, K, and Rb halides. The dC/dT)V measure the explicit dependence of C on T, the effect of thermal expansion having been removed. The dC/dT)V are all small (compared with dC/dT)P), are all negative, and vary quite systematically and smoothly with anion, with cation and with the three elastic constants. Negative dBT/dT)V is accounted for both thermodynamically and by available lattice dynamical calculations. dC/dT)V for shear constant is expressed in terms of two vibrational mode parameters, whose values can then be estimated from the observed value, and the trend of dC/dT)V with Debye temperature.
Education for the Gifted: The Fifty-seventh Yearbook of the National Society for the Study of Education, Part II: Education for the Gifted: The Fifty-seventh Yearbook of the National Society for the Study of Education, Part II

(1959). Education for the Gifted: The Fifty-seventh Yearbook of the National Society for the Study of Education, Part II: Education for the Gifted: The Fifty-seventh Yearbook of the National Society for the Study of Education, Part II. The Journal of Higher Education: Vol. 30, No. 3, pp. 178-179.
Estimation of Forcing Functions on a Mistuned Bladed Rotor From Harmonic Response

This paper deals with the estimation of forcing functions on a mistuned bladed rotor from measurements of harmonic response via Kalman Filter in time domain. An unique feature of this approach is that the number of estimated variables can be far greater than the number of measurements. The robustness of this method to measurement errors is shown. It is also shown that direct prediction of amplitude and phase of sinusoidal force vector from input/output frequency response function has a large amount of errors in the presence of unavoidable measurement noise. Numerical examples contain both frequency mistuning and geometric mistuning.Copyright © 2017 by ASME
Decomposable s-Tetrazine Copolymer Enables Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube Thin Film Transistors and Sensors with Improved Sensitivity

A decomposable polymer based on s ‐tetrazine replaces polyfluorene in an the organic dispersion due to its stronger affinity with the nanotubes and can be degraded to small molecules via heat or UV light. The decomposition and removal of the polymer are characterized in situ during transistor operation. Bare carbon nanotube networks can be particularly interesting for transistor and sensor applications.
The Scientist’s Right to Research and the Legitimacy of Governmental Regulation

The recent controversy over recombinant DNA research has raised important questions about the legitimacy of government regulation of scientific research. Many scientists claim that they have a right of free inquiry—a right to research—that governmental constraints on a scientist’s choice of research topics and methods violate. The purpose of this chapter is to examine the constitutional status of this claim and to discuss its implications for state regulation of research.
Assessing the Relationship Between Physical Health and Inmate Misconduct

Research reveals inmate misconduct results from various factors including age, gang membership, program participation, and mental illness. However, no research has examined the influence of physica...
Method for Quantifying Oxidized Methionines and Application to HIV-1 Env

Recombinantly expressed proteins are susceptible to oxidation during expression, purification, storage, and analysis; the residue most susceptible to oxidation is methionine. Methionine oxidation can be overestimated using current quantitative analysis methods because oxidation can occur during sample preparation, and researchers often do not use methods that account for this possibility. An experimental strategy had been developed previously to solve this problem through the use of an 18O-labeled hydrogen peroxide reagent. However, the method did not address the analysis of peptides that contained multiple methionine residues. Herein, we develop and validate a new analysis method that uses theoretical isotope distributions and experimental spectra to quantify methionine oxidation that is present prior to sample preparation. The newly described approach is more rapid than the previously described method, and it needs only half the amount of protein for analysis. This method was validated using model proteins; then, it was applied to the analysis of recombinant HIV-1 Env, the key protein in HIV vaccine candidates. While Met oxidation of this protein could not be analyzed using previous methods, the approach described herein was useful for determining the oxidation state of HIV-Env. Graphical Abstract ᅟ.
Quantified In Vitro Release of Interleukin-8 from Electrospun Bioresorbable Vascular Graft Materials

Interleukin-8 (IL-8) is a chemokine from the CXC family that has been shown to have angiogenic properties through the activation of macrophages. Angiogenesis is a critical factor in tissue regeneration, specifically of implanted electrospun bioresorbable vascular grafts. The purpose of this study was to analyze the release of IL-8 from electrospun scaffolds of different materials to demonstrate these scaffolds can be used as a chemotactive agent for macrophages to promote increased tissue regeneration in vascular grafts. Polycaprolactone (PCL), poly(glycolic acid) (PGA), fibrinogen (FBG), and silk solutions were electrospun from 1,1,1,3,3,3 hexafluoro-2-propanol (HFP) with and without the addition of 3000 ng/ml human IL-8. High and low concentrations of polymer were used to form scaffolds of micro- to nano-sized fiber diameters, respectively. From these scaffolds, 6 mm discs were punched, placed in a 96 well plate, and incubated under standard conditions with the addition of complete media (200μl). Media was retained at days 1, 3, 5, and 7 for ELISA analysis of IL-8 release. Preliminary results of IL-8 release from electrospun constructs reveal a steady decrease of chemokine throughout the seven day time period from all scaffolds, with the exception of PGA. Silk scaffolds release the highest amount of IL-8 (0.07-0.21 ng/ml), whereas scaffolds of PCL exhibit the lowest amount of chemokine release (0.01-0.06 ng/ml). Although PGA scaffolds display a steady release of chemokine for days 1, 3, and 5 (0.03 ng/day), at day 7 there is an increase (0.06 ng/day and 0.04 ng/day for low and high concentrations, respectively) due to bulk degradation of the scaffold. Control scaffolds (those without IL-8) display undetectable amounts of IL-8. While these scaffolds seem to demonstrate the ability to enhance cell migration and promote increased tissue regeneration, future work, including analyzing the chemotactic property of scaffolds on macrophages and fibroblasts, will be necessary to verify these results.
Update Methods and their Numerical Stability

In numerical continuation methods, we are usually confronted with the problem of solving linear equations such as
National energy transition, local partisanship? Elite cues, community identity, and support for clean power in the United States

Abstract The Clean Power Plan (CPP) is the most ambitious effort to date to de-carbonize the U.S. energy system, promote alternative energy sources and assist communities that will be deleteriously impacted by the decline of traditional fossil fuels. The CPP has proven controversial, with critiques raised by diverse stakeholders. Currently, the future of the CPP is in doubt with the rise of President Trump’s decidedly pro-fossil fuel EPA. Despite the controversy around the CPP, little is known about how communities impacted by changes in the energy system view this policy. In this analysis, we present results from a survey of local policy actors in Colorado and Utah—states with diverse and ample energy resources. This analysis asks how factors like community economic identity, elite partisan cues and partisan identity influence support for the CPP. Results imply that local policy actors who view fossil fuels as locally significant are less likely to support the CPP, while community economic identity around alternative energy does not increase support (even though the CPP would benefit that sector). Elite partisan cues, surprisingly, did little to alter views about the CPP while party affiliation was a powerful predictor. Implications for the local dimensions of energy policy are discussed.
308 ISOLATED FETAL MICROPHTHALMIA DIAGNOSED BY MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING.

Introduction Fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a modality that is becoming more frequently used to evaluate a fetus with suspected anomalies. There are very few data about ocular growth and abnormalities as seen with fetal MRI. This is the first report of isolated microphthalmia diagnosed by fetal MRI. We also compare eye measurements in the affected fetus with others of similar gestational age who had morphologically normal brains and eyes on fetal MRI. Methods Retrospective review of the MR images of fetuses at 21 to 23 weeks9 gestation at our institution who were identified to have structurally normal brains and eyes were used as controls (N = 13) to compare with our patient. Using a 1.5-Tesla magnet, a body coil was placed over the mother9s abdomen and multiple single-shot T2 fast spin echo images were obtained using 3 mm collimation. The images were of axial, sagittal, and coronal planes of the fetus. Quantitative measurements were performed on a Synapse PACS. The average transverse diameter of each globe, intraocular distance, lens diameters, and calculated globe volumes of the control were compared with the index case. Results The transverse globe diameters for the index patient were 2.2 and 2.5 mm (right and left, respectively) compared with 10.5 mm in the control patients. The intraocular distance was 10.8 mm versus an average of 12.5 mm in the other patients of similar gestational age. The lenses were not visible on the index patient. The globe volume for the index patient was 8.9 and 10.5 mm3 (right and left, respectively) compared with 520 mm3 and 534 mm3. Conclusions Abnormal fetal eye size, including the condition of microphthalmia, can be identified with fetal MRI. In fetuses with suspected eye abnormalities, fetal MRI is an imaging modality that should be considered to further evaluate globe and orbit structures. For fetuses who receive MRI for nonocular abnormalities, we recommend examining the eye images as abnormalities may be readily apparent.
Recognition of the Asymmetrical Smile: A Comparison of Orthodontists, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, and Laypersons.

Purpose Studies have shown that an asymmetrical smile is a relatively common problem. Yet, many patients are unaware of having this condition. Because having an asymmetrical smile can affect the final esthetic result of orthodontic therapy or orthognathic surgery, such patients need to be aware of the problem. The purpose of this study was to determine what amount of smile asymmetry is clinically evident to orthodontists, oral and maxillofacial surgeons (OMSs), and the lay public. Materials and Methods A total of 56 OMSs, 117 orthodontists, and 123 laypersons participated in the study. They were asked to view a randomly arranged series of computer-generated male and female facial photographs with the smile symmetrical or altered in 0.5-mm increments from 1 to 4 mm and to indicate whether the person had an asymmetrical smile. Results The OMSs and orthodontists were able to recognize relatively smaller amounts of asymmetry than the laypersons (2 mm vs 3 to 3.5 mm). Conclusions Although the clinicians performed better than the laypersons, both groups were able to recognize relatively small amounts of asymmetry. Because such a condition is generally not correctable and can affect the esthetic result, patients undergoing orthodontic therapy or orthognathic surgery need to be made aware of the situation before treatment.
The Gauss-Bonnet Theorem

It must have been studied in the subject of line integration in calculus that the integration of a differential 1-form.
The Kidney-Gut-Muscle Axis in End-Stage Renal Disease Is Similarly Represented in Older Adults

Decreased renal function, elevated circulating levels of urea, intestinal levels of urea-degrading bacteria, and gut-derived uremic metabolites are present in end-stage renal disease (ESRD), a cohort that has reduced muscle mass and physical function, and poor muscle composition. This phenotype, defined as the kidney–gut–muscle axis, is similarly represented in older adults that do not have ESRD. The purpose of this short communication is to illuminate these findings, and to propose a strategy that can positively impact the kidney–gut–muscle axis. For example, dietary fiber is fermented by intestinal bacteria, thereby producing the short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) acetate, propionate, and butyrate, which affect each component of the kidney–gut–muscle axis. Accordingly, a high-fiber diet may be an important approach for improving the kidney–gut–muscle axis in ESRD and in older adults that do not have ESRD.
Angiopoietin-1 protects 3T3-L1 preadipocytes from saturated fatty acid-induced cell death.

Cross talk between endothelial cells and adipocytes is vital to adipocyte functions, but little is known about the mechanisms or factors controlling the process. Angiogenesis is a critical component linking the endothelium to healthy adipogenesis, yet it is not known if or how it is involved in adipocyte physiology. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the effect of angiopoietin-1 (Ang-1) and -2 (Ang-2) as well as their receptor, Tie-2, on adipocyte physiology. 3T3-L1 pre- and mature adipocytes were found to express Ang-1, Ang-2, and Tie-2, which decrease upon polyunsaturated fatty acid treatment. Furthermore, 3T3-L1 cells treated with recombinant Ang-1 or Ang-2 increased expression of the antiapoptotic gene Bcl-x and decreased expression of the proapoptotic gene Casp-8. Next, preadipocytes were treated with saturated fatty acids (SFAs) to induce cell stress. SFA-mediated splicing of X-box-binding protein-1 was reduced by co-treatment with Ang-1, and cell viability was improved in the presence of SFAs + Ang-1. Taken together, these results indicate that Ang-1 may protect preadipocytes from SFA-induced apoptosis and endoplasmic reticulum stress.
Efficacy of Aflibercept Treatment and Its Effect on the Retinal Perfusion in the Oxygen-Induced Retinopathy Mouse Model of Retinopathy of Prematurity.

INTRODUCTION Bevacizumab and ranibizumab, which are anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) medications, are used frequently in the treatment for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in infants. Aflibercept, or VEGF Trap, has been used anecdotally, but translation and clinical studies are lacking. OBJECTIVE This study investigates the efficacy of aflibercept at reducing areas of non-perfused retina and studies its effect on normal angiogenesis in the oxygen-induced retinopathy mouse model of ROP. METHODS C57BL/6 J mice were assigned to room air control (n = 21 eyes) or hyperoxia with 75% oxygen (n = 84 eyes). The hyperoxic mice were assigned to 1 of 3 groups: 0 ng (n = 14 eyes), 100 ng (n = 35 eyes), or 1,000 ng (n = 35 eyes) of intravitreal aflibercept administered on postnatal day 14. Eyes were enucleated at PN17 and PN25 postinjection. Retinas were stained with anti-collagen IV antibody and photographed with microscopy. Areas of perfused and non-perfused retina were quantified using ImageJ software. Statistical comparisons were made using ANOVA with Tukey post hoc comparisons. RESULTS At PN17, there was no significant difference in the area of non-perfused retina between the hyperoxic control and the 100 and 1,000 ng aflibercept groups. At PN25, the 100 ng (p < 0.05) and 1,000 ng (p = 0.008) treatment groups displayed less non-perfusion compared to hyperoxic controls. At the 1,000 ng dose, there was increased non-perfusion compared to the 100 ng dose (p = 0.02). There was reduced non-perfusion by PN25 compared to PN17 for the 100 ng group (p < 0.05), with no difference in the 1,000 ng group. CONCLUSIONS The study shows that the area of non-perfused retina decreases effectively with aflibercept at PN25 with 100 ng dosage. With the 1,000 ng dosage, there is an inhibition of the physiologic angiogenesis with a higher area of non-perfused retina.
New Frontiers in Alife: What was old is new again

Alife has made fundamental contributions to our understanding of how evolutionary processes work. I will highlight a few of these instances, as well as ongoing work by my group and others embracing...
Reactive Postural Responses After Mild Traumatic Brain Injury and Their Association With Musculoskeletal Injury Risk in Collegiate Athletes: A Study Protocol.

Background: Deficits in neuromuscular control are widely reported after mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). These deficits are speculated to contribute to the increased rate of musculoskeletal injuries after mTBI. However, a concrete mechanistic connection between post-mTBI deficits and musculoskeletal injuries has yet to be established. While impairments in some domains of balance control have been linked to musculoskeletal injuries, reactive balance control has received little attention in the mTBI literature, despite the inherent demand of balance recovery in athletics. Our central hypothesis is that the high rate of musculoskeletal injuries after mTBI is in part due to impaired reactive balance control necessary for balance recovery. The purpose of this study is to (1) characterize reactive postural responses to recover balance in athletes with recent mTBI compared to healthy control subjects, (2) determine the extent to which reactive postural responses remain impaired in athletes with recent mTBI who have been cleared to return to play, and (3) determine the relationship between reactive postural responses and acute lower extremity musculoskeletal injuries in a general sample of healthy collegiate athletes. Methods: This two-phase study will take place at the University of Utah in coordination with the University of Utah Athletics Department. Phase 1 will evaluate student-athletes who have sustained mTBI and teammate-matched controls who meet all the inclusion criteria. The participants will be assessed at multiple time points along the return-to-play progress of the athlete with mTBI. The primary outcome will be measures of reactive postural response derived from wearable sensors during the Push and Release (P&R) test. In phase 2, student-athletes will undergo a baseline assessment of postural responses. Acute lower extremity musculoskeletal injuries for each participant will be prospectively tracked for 1 year from the date of first team activity. The primary outcomes will be the measures of reactive postural responses and the time from first team activity to lower extremity injury. Discussion: Results from this study will further our understanding of changes in balance control, across all domains, after mTBI and identify the extent to which postural responses can be used to assess injury risk in collegiate athletes.
Nonconsequentialist Arguments Against Prostitution

In this chapter, I critique seven nonreligious nonconsequentialist arguments for the immorality of prostitution. As nonreligious, they are arguments wherein a claim regarding the immorality of prostitution is derived from at least one nonreligious claim and no religious claims whatsoever. And as nonconsequentialist, they are arguments wherein a claim regarding the immorality of prostitution is derived from at least one nonconsequentialist moral claim and no consequentialist moral claims whatsoever.
Non-convex graph optimization with dissipatively coupled laser networks

Dissipative interaction facilitates the global phase locking of a network of lasers with generally complex graph topologies. Recently, we showed that the equilibrium states of such laser networks are optimal solutions of governing cost functions that are of non-convex quadratic form. This realization allows for mapping a large class of non-convex optimization problems onto laser networks, which provides a promising route for optically solving such computationally-hard problems. Here, by numerical simulation of the underlying dynamical equations, we investigate the accuracy of the solutions obtained for well-known non-convex problems and discuss the role of parameter tuning for escaping the local minima.
High performance protonic ceramic fuel cell systems for distributed power generation

Abstract The technology landscape around distributed generation continues to evolve in response to increasing demand for high-efficiency, low-emission, low-cost power generation. While emerging distributed power technologies, such as solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), continue to advance, they still face challenges due to their high capital costs, and shorter lifetimes that typically arise from electrochemical stack performance degradation at high operating temperatures (>750 °C). Recent advancements in protonic ceramic fuel cells (PCFCs) offer the potential to mitigate drawbacks of their higher temperature SOFC counterparts by enabling lower operating temperatures (550 °C–600 °C) with acceptable power densities. The present work leverages the recent progress in protonic ceramic cell and stack technology development to generate viable system configurations and evaluate the energetic performance potential of PCFC-based systems for stationary power generation. Process system engineering of two water-neutral system concepts, which provide 25 kW of electric power and process hot water, are presented and evaluated through sensitivity studies. Stack design parameters are altered and used to gauge the effect on system performance characteristics, including fuel cell stack and balance-of-plant sizing requirements, and electric and cogeneration efficiencies. The study finds that the potentially high per-pass fuel utilization capability of PCFC stacks could enable unprecedented electric efficiencies approaching 70% without hybridization with other prime movers.
Synthetic Biology Tool Development Advances Predictable Gene Expression in the Metabolically Versatile Soil Bacterium Rhodopseudomonas palustris

Harnessing the unique biochemical capabilities of non-model microorganisms would expand the array of biomanufacturing substrates, process conditions, and products. There are non-model microorganisms that fix nitrogen and carbon dioxide, derive energy from light, catabolize methane and lignin-derived aromatics, are tolerant to physiochemical stresses and harsh environmental conditions, store lipids in large quantities, and produce hydrogen. Model microorganisms often only break down simple sugars and require low stress conditions, but they have been engineered for the sustainable manufacture of numerous products, such as fragrances, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, surfactants, and specialty chemicals, often by using tools from synthetic biology. Transferring complex pathways with all of the needed cofactors, energy sources, and cellular conditions from a non-model microorganism to a common chassis has proven to be exceedingly difficult. Utilization of unique biochemical capabilities could also be achieved by engineering the host; although, synthetic biology tools developed for model microbes often do not perform as designed in other microorganisms. The metabolically versatile Rhodopseudomonas palustris CGA009, a purple non-sulfur bacterium, catabolizes aromatic compounds derived from lignin in both aerobic and anaerobic conditions and can use light, inorganic, and organic compounds for its source of energy. R. palustris utilizes three nitrogenase isozymes to fulfill its nitrogen requirements while also generating hydrogen. Furthermore, the bacterium produces two forms of RuBisCo in response to carbon dioxide/bicarbonate availability. While this potential chassis harbors many beneficial traits, stable heterologous gene expression has been problematic due to its intrinsic resistance to many antibiotics and the lack of synthetic biology parts investigated in this microbe. To address these problems, we have characterized gene expression and plasmid maintenance for different selection markers, started a synthetic biology toolbox specifically for the photosynthetic R. palustris, including origins of replication, fluorescent reporters, terminators, and 59 untranslated regions, and employed the microbe9s endogenous plasmid for exogenous protein production. This work provides essential synthetic biology tools for engineering R. palustris9 many unique biochemical processes and has helped define the principles for expressing heterologous genes in this promising microbe through a methodology that could be applied to other non-model microorganisms.
Adaptations: Some General Characteristics

The sections in this article are: 1 Stressor–Strain Relationships 2 Kinetics of Acclimation and Deacclimation 3 Classification of Adaptive Environments 4 Cross-Acclimations 4.1 Methods to Study Cross-Acclimation 4.2 Cross-Acclimation between Cold and Hypoxia 4.3 Cross-Acclimation between Cold and Heat 4.4 Cross-Acclimation between Restraint and Either Cold or Hypoxia 4.5 Cross-Acclimation between Heat and Hypoxia/Anoxia 4.6 Cross-Acclimation between X-Radiation and Either Cold or Exercise 4.7 Cross-Acclimation between Exercise and Hypoxia 4.8 Cellular Cross-Acclimations 5 Cross-Acclimation: Assessment by Acute Simultaneous Exposure to Two Stressors 6 Acclimation to Two Stressors 7 Adaptations: Role in Pathophysiology
Promoting Experimental Economics in the Classroom

Economic experiments allow the K-12 teacher to promote active learning that is also rigorously grounded in economic theory. In an experiment students test for themselves the economics they hear in lectures and read in their textbooks. The authors have found that working through the existing teacher professional development system is a promising approach to infusing experimental methods into the school curriculum. This paper describes a short professional development course in experimental economics. The experience of conducting the course with two groups of teachers is discussed and survey results pertaining to teacher implementation of classroom experiments are presented.
Soft tissue chondroma of the fallopian tube. Differential diagnosis and histogenetic considerations.

Summary The first case of a pure chondroma arising from the soft tissues of the fallopian tube is reported, and its differential diagnosis and possible histogenetic mechanisms are considered.
Criticality Studies for a Neutron Multiplier

Critical experiments were performed on an annular assembly of 9(3.2) wt% /sup 235/U enriched U-Al alloy fuel elements in light water to provide data for the design and operation of a subcritical neutron multiplier of a /sup 252/Cf neutron source. The various factors affecting criticality were determined. In addition to measurement of the critical fuel rod loading under various conditions, values of k/sub eff/ were determined as a function of fuel rod loading by means of pulsed neutron source experiments. The data provide the design basis for operation of the neutron multiplier, yielding a maximum flux value in the internal irradiation column consistent with maintaining a degree of subcriticality in operation.
Modulatory function of CREB.CREM alpha heterodimers depends upon CREM alpha phosphorylation.

The cAMP-responsive element (CRE) modulator protein CREM alpha has been proposed to be a negative regulator of the CRE-binding protein (CREB). Precisely how CREM alpha inhibits CREB function is unclear, however. CREM alpha and CREB have highly related structures, and both proteins bind to consensus CRE sequences with similar affinities. Furthermore, both proteins can be phosphorylated by cAMP-dependent protein kinase A (PKA). Two models have been proposed to explain how CREM alpha could prevent the activation of genes by PKA-phosphorylated CREB: inhibitory CREM alpha homodimers could prevent occupancy of the CRE by CREB, or CREM alpha could block gene activation by forming non-functional CREB.CREM alpha heterodimers. To determine whether CREB-CREM alpha heterodimers are indeed non-functional, we engineered the leucine zipper regions of the two proteins to direct the pattern of dimerization. We then tested the biological activities of the phosphorylated and nonphosphorylated complexes in in vivo transcription assays. Our results indicate that CREM alpha can contribute to PKA-mediated gene activation when selectively heterodimerized with CREB. Furthermore, this transcriptional activity depends upon the ability of the complexes to be phosphorylated by PKA.
Educating the Muslims of America. Y. Y. Haddad, F. Senzai, & J. I. Smith

This book was an edited volume consisting of 11 chapters that addressed how Muslims in North America educate their youth and other members of the community about their religion. The chapters of the...
An Incremental Learning Algorithm for Non-stationary Environments and Class Imbalance

Learning in a non-stationary environment and in the presence of class imbalance has been receiving more recognition from the computational intelligence community, but little work has been done to create an algorithm or a framework that can handle both issues simultaneously. We have recently introduced a new member to the Learn++ family of algorithms, Learn++.NSE, which is designed to track non-stationary environments. However, this algorithm does not work well when there is class imbalance as it has not been designed to handle this problem. On the other hand, SMOTE – a popular algorithm that can handle class imbalance – is not designed to learn in nonstationary environments because it is a method of over sampling the data. In this work we describe and present preliminary results for integrating SMOTE and Learn++.NSE to create an algorithm that is robust to learning in a non-stationary environment and under class imbalance.
Surface Cracking in Elastic-Plastic Multi-Layered Media Due to Repeated Sliding Contact

Surface cracking in a multi-layered medium due to sliding of a rigid asperity was analyzed using linear elastic fracture mechanics and the finite element method. Overlapping of the crack faces and assumptions about the distributions of surface tractions were avoided by using special contact elements. The main objectives of this study were to obtain solutions for the tensile and shear stress intensity factor (SIF) and to determine the crack propagation path in the first layer due to repetitive sliding. The crack propagation direction was predicted based on the maximum (tensile or shear) SIF range. The effects of the crack length, sliding friction, and crack-face friction on the SIF and crack propagation direction are discussed in the context of finite element solutions. Simulation results demonstrate the effects of crack growth in the elastic surface layer on the accumulation of plastic strain in the elastic-plastic underlying layer and the significance of the crack growth increment on the propagation path. It is shown that the surface crack propagates toward the layer interface at an angle of ∼57° from the original crack plane, independent of the crack growth increment, in fair agreement with experimental observations. Based on the obtained results, a general fatigue approach for surface cracking is derived for multi-layered media subjected to repetitive sliding contact.
Mach Reflection from Overexpanded Nozzle Flows

Investigation of the Mach reflection associated with a steady two-dimensional overexpanded nozzle flow. The conditions of occurrence of triple point shock configuration are described, and Mach reflection configurations for two values of the incident shock are presented, along with the Mach stem height variation for different Mach numbers under conditions of different pressure ratios.
Automatic Individual Feeding of Concentrates to Dairy Cattle

Abstract Two methods of feeding concentrates according to milk production were compared in a switchback experimental design. Twenty-four cows were assigned to two groups and the groups balanced according to age, milk production, fat-corrected milk production, and body weight. The cows were fed individually their daily allowance of concentrate while in the milking parlor or with an electronic feeder which dispersed concentrates at any hour of the day. All cows received corn silage in a feed bunk. Daily milk production increased .71kg when cows were fed concentrates electronically. However, there were no significant differences in daily concentrate intake, production of fat-corrected milk, butter-fat percentage, or solids-not-fat percentage for the two treatments.
The effect of x‐rays upon the chromosomes of circotettix verruculatus (orthoptera)

X-rays produce fragmentations of the chromosome commonly in the region of fiber attachment. Fiberless fragments become attached to other chromosomes or those portions of them that retain fiber attachments. Thus, chromosomes homologous to parts of two other chromosomes are produced and at synapsis multiples are formed. Such multiples are chains or closed-circles depending upon whether a single or a reciprocal translocation respectively has occurred. Sometimes entire chromosomes unite to form a multiple. In general, the multiples divide so that the segregation of homologous elements is complete. However, sometimes the separation of homologous portions is impossible and, then, gametes which contain sectional-duplications, or sectional-deficiencies, or both, are produced. Any two or more chromosomes may be involved in multiple formation although the larger elements are more frequently implicated. Translocations may occur between homologues resulting in an unequal division of chromatin. The locus of fiber attachment (acromite) is an integral part of a chromosome and its loss to one homologue causes non-disjunction or other inequalities in the distribution of the chromatin. Supernumerary chromosomes are frequently present in the spermatocytes. Homologues unaccountably sometimes fail to synapse in the descendants of irradiated cells. There is a striking similarity between natural and induced chromosomal aberrations as well as a correlation between the distribution of radioactive minerals and naturally occurring aberrations.
Plasma behavior during high brightness (DPSS) laser materials interaction

Diode pumped Nd:YAG lasers are becoming a potentially powerful tool for microelectronics packaging and micro- machining. One of the major advantages of such lasers is high brightness and pulse formatting capability. This offers a tool for controlled materials removal or micro-welding. The recently developed high power diode pumped Nd-YAG laser with Slab geometry opened the door for even higher power density. On the other hand, high brightness poses a challenge for management of laser-induced plasma for process stability and repeatability. In order to develop the fundamental understanding of the role of plasma during the laser micro-machining, one needs to fully characterize the plasma density. Laser absorption spectroscopy is a good tool for that purpose since it measures the events near the ground level where population is high and thus measurements are more accurate. This paper describes the technique and presents the results.
The fourth harmonic and Sibelius

The composer Sibelius made ingenious use of artificial harmonics in his violin concerto. We reveal the underlying physics with an explanation suitable for the general student.
A Class-Wide Intervention for Improving Homework Performance

Homework completion has an important impact on the overall academic functioning of students. Consultation requests often center on identifying efficient interventions so that teachers may facilitate the homework process and enhance students' academic achievement. This investigation employed a randomized interdependent group contingency and randomized reinforcers to improve homework completion and accuracy of spelling performance in 21 elementary school students. An ABAB reversal design across all students was employed. Results showed this intervention to have a positive impact on both spelling homework completion and accuracy rates. Limitations, future research, and contributions are addressed.
Analysis and Improvement of Multiproduct Bernoulli Serial Lines: Theory and Application

This paper is devoted to the performance analysis and continuous improvement of multiproduct manufacturing systems. First, a Bernoulli model of multiproduct serial line with unreliable machines and finite buffers is introduced. In such a model, each machine is capable of processing multiple product types, and each buffer is shared for all products. Closed formulas have been derived to evaluate the production rate of the line with one or two machines, and recursive procedures are used to analyze longer lines. Numerical studies indicate that such a method has a high precision in performance evaluation. The system-theoretic properties, such as asymptotic property, monotonicity, and reversibility, have been investigated. Second, in order to improve system performance, bottleneck (BN) analysis has been carried out to identify the machine and product whose improvement will lead to the largest improvement in the system production rate. Various types of BNs have been defined, and the BN indicators, based on the data collected on the factory floor, are proposed to identify the BNs without the complicated calculations of the production rate and its sensitivities. Numerical experiments have justified the practical usefulness of such indicators for BN identification in multiproduct manufacturing systems. Finally, a case study is introduced to illustrate the applicability of the model and the method.
Differentiation and function of pro-inflammatory Th17 cells

After activation, CD4+ helper T (Th) cells differentiate into cytokine-secreting effector subsets. A novel subset of CD4+ helper T (Th) cells that produce two related cytokines IL-17 and IL-17F has been recently identified and shown to play critical function in inflammation and autoimmunity. Here I summarize recent work by us as well as other investigators in understanding the transcriptional regulation of Th17-cell differentiation, their developmental relationship with regulatory T cells and the function of IL-17 and IL-17F in vivo.
Demographics of dividends

Abstract Using seventeen observable demographic characteristics, we investigate the impact of six CEO profiles on dividend policy. Firms headed by married, Republican, Christian CEOs with children maintain higher dividend yields and are more likely to considerably increase their dividend payout. Following substantial dividend hikes, firms led by CEOs with these more traditional personal lives exhibit deteriorating performance. Potential explanations include managerial optimism coupled with dividend signaling and the possibility that CEO profiles proxy for an unobserved firm effect such as firm maturity. However, the associations above continue to persist in both mature firm and turnover sub-samples. Overall, this suggests that these relationships are related to characteristics of the CEOs themselves.
Characterization of magnetic and electronic properties of trimetallic nitride endohedral fullerenes by SQUID magnetometry and electron paramagnetic resonance

Abstract Magnetic and electronic properties of high-purity trimetallic nitride endohedral fullerenes Er 3 N@C 80 , Lu 3 N@C 80 , Sc 3 N@C 80 diluted in a diamagnetic host were characterized by SQUID DC magnetometry and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) at multiple frequencies. The Er 3 N@C 80 sample followed the Curie–Weiss law with negligible Weiss temperature of 0.16 K. Based on temperature dependence and isothermal saturation magnetization the effective magnetic moment of Er 3 N@C 80 was estimated as 10.2 μ B . The magnetic behavior of these fullerenes is ascribed to quenching of the orbital moment of the metal ions due to interactions between the metal centers with the nitrogen and the fullerene cage.
EXCITED-STATE DYNAMICS OF A PROTONATED RETINAL SCHIFF BASE IN SOLUTION

The dynamics of all-trans and 13-cis retinal protonated Schiff base (RPSB) were studied in different solvents by means of picosecond transient spectroscopy. The decay time of the excited state absorption was found to be wavelength dependent due to the contribution of the faster decay of stimulated emission. The stimulated emission has a lifetime of a 2.5−4 ps while the excited state absorption decay is biexponential with lifetimes of 2.5−4 and 10−12 ps. The fluorescence quantum yield is strongly temperature dependent, but viscosity has a small effect on both excited-state lifetime and fluorescence quantum yield. This leads to the conclusion that there is a ∼600 cm-1 barrier in the excited-state which results from intramolecular electronic factors and not from the solvent viscosity. The comparison of these results with those for the retinal in rhodopsin and bacteriorhodopsin is discussed in terms of the protein catalysis for the retinal photoisomerization.
A variety of distinct kinds of multiple soliton solutions for a ( 3 + 1)‐dimensional nonlinear evolution equation

In this work, a variety of distinct kinds of multiple soliton solutions is derived for a ( 3 + 1)-dimensional nonlinear evolution equation. The simplified form of the Hirota's method is used to derive this set of distinct kinds of multiple soliton solutions. The coefficients of the spatial variables play a major role in the existence of this variety of multiple soliton solutions for the same equation. The resonance phenomenon is investigated as well. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A 2D model for shape optimization of solid oxide fuel cell cathodes

A topology optimization method is used to identify the optimal shape of the nano-composite cathode of a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC). A simplified analysis model is used in computations aimed at reducing ohmic losses by optimizing the shape of the cathode to minimize resistance. The model of the SOFC is reduced to a periodic, 2D conduction problem with design-dependent ionic transfer boundary conditions. Special techniques are introduced to avoid physically inadmissible designs that would otherwise be allowed by the 2D model. Isoperimetric constraints on the perimeter and the amount of material are used in the problem. Numerical examples are provided to discuss the effect of material properties and the resource restrictions introduced by the constraints. The methodology discussed can be applied to similar problems involving design-dependent boundary conditions.