cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
GAPDH with NAD+-binding site mutation competitively inhibits the wild-type and affects glucose metabolism in cancer.

Abstract Background Rapid utilization of glucose is a metabolic signature of majority of cancers, hence enzymes of the glycolytic pathway remain attractive therapeutic targets. Recent reports have shown that targeting the glycolytic enzyme, glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), an abundant, ubiquitous multifunctional protein frequently upregulated in cancer, affects cancer progression. Here, we report that a catalytically-deficient mutant-GAPDH competitively inhibits the wild-type, and disrupts glucose metabolism in cancer cells. Methods Using site-directed mutagenesis, the human GAPDH clone was mutated at one of the NAD+-binding sites, (i.e.) arginine (R13) and isoleucine (I14) to glutamine (Q13) and phenylalanine (F14), respectively. The inhibitory role of the mutant-GAPDH, and its effect on energy metabolism and cancer phenotype was determined using in vitro and in vivo models of cancer. Results The enzymatically-dysfunctional mutant-GAPDH competitively inhibited the wild-type GAPDH in a cell-free system. In cancer cells, ectopic expression of the mutant-GAPDH, but not the wild-type, inhibited the glycolytic capacity of cellular-GAPDH, and led to the induction of metabolic stress accompanied by a sharp decline in glucose-uptake. Furthermore, expression of mutant-GAPDH affected cancer growth in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, structural analysis by bioinformatics revealed that the mutations at the NAD+-binding site altered the solvent-accessibility that perhaps affected the functionality of mutant-GAPDH. Conclusion Mutant-GAPDH affects the enzymatic function of cellular-GAPDH and disrupts energy metabolism. General significance Our findings demonstrate that a minimal mutation at the NAD+-binding site is sufficient to generate a competitive but dysfunctional GAPDH, and its ectopic expression inhibits the wild-type to disrupt glycolysis.
Análisis de las prácticas para el fortalecimiento de gobierno corporativo, establecidas en la norma de carácter general nº 385, emitida por la Superintendencia de Valores y Seguros el año 2015. Aplicado al sector retail en Chile.

El proposito de esta investigacion, es realizar un analisis descriptivo de los posibles efectos que se persiguen con la aplicacion de la Norma de Caracter General (NCG) numero 385 de la Superintendencia de Valores y Seguros, y los beneficios que esta traeria a las Sociedades Anonimas Abiertas del sector retail, que difunden de manera publica las practicas de gobierno corporativo. Esto se realizo mediante un analisis documental, desarrollado bajo un paradigma cualitativo con alcance comprehensivo, con la finalidad deanalizar las practicas que permiten el fortalecimiento de los gobiernos corporativos de las sociedadeSanonimas abiertas del sector retail en Chile, mediante el analisis de aplicacion de la NCG No 385. De la informacion obtenida, se concluyo que la mayoria de las empresas de retail, reguladas por la SVS, cumplen con emitir el informe sobre practicas de gobierno corporativo a pesar de no ser algo obligatorio, las practicas que mas cumplen las empresas de retail, son las relacionadas con el control y gestion de riesgo.
Getting IoT-ready: The face of next generation artificial pancreas systems

Abstract The internet-of-things (IoT), a vast and eclectic mixture of sensors capable of generating actionable information, is changing the landscape of smart and connected healthcare. Although various aspects of the IoT have been discussed in the literature, this chapter identifies and estimates the potential of the IoT in transforming feedback control strategies to maintain health and promote wellness in people with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Ecosystems that can be developed by fusing IoT to state-of-the-art artificial pancreas (AP) systems are discussed, along with unique challenges that arise due to these modified feedback control loops. The potential of an IoT-ready AP in incorporating resource- and context-awareness to improve quality of glycemic control is demonstrated via simulation studies.
Vacancy encounter model for stochastically fluctuating electric field gradients in the Cu3Au crystal structure

ABSTRACTA class of experimental techniques known as hyperfine methods can be used to measure electric field gradients (EFGs) through the hyperfine interaction experienced by tracer nuclei. When EFG...
Piezoelectric Micromachined Ultrasonic Transducers with Corrugated Diaphragms Using Surface Micromachining

A key metric of micromachined ultrasonic transducer (MUT) performance is the volume velocity, which determines the transmitting output pressure. Here, we present a study to demonstrate corrugated-diaphragm piezoelectric MUTs (PMUTs) which have up to 3.2X higher volume velocity than conventional PMUTs of the same area. The PMUTs are manufactured by a surface-micromachining process forming a high fill-factor (80%) array, and corrugations can be added without any additional masks or process steps. The PMUTs with corrugations are implemented to have the increased displacement and resonant frequency. The corrugations and released holes are etched and formed by the same fabrication step, and their opening-area ratios determines the corrugation depth which is critical to PMUT efficiency. By corrugating PMUT diaphragm, it provides a simple method to tune resonant frequency. The study includes design, fabrication, and characterization for the various approaches to corrugated PMUTs.
High Prevalence of Peripartum Depression Among Physician Mothers: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Author(s): Choo, Esther K; Girgis, Christina; Han, Christina S; Simard, Julia F; Adesoye, Taiwo; Linos, Eleni; Mangurian, Christina; Physician Moms Group Study Group
Service Life of Intumescent Coatings

This chapter presents a probabilistic approach to determine the service life of intumescent coatings for steel columns. An example is provided to show the application of the approach.
CellOracle: Dissecting cell identity via network inference and in silico gene perturbation

Here, we present CellOracle, a computational tool that integrates single-cell transcriptome and epigenome profiles to infer gene regulatory networks (GRNs), critical regulators of cell identity. Leveraging inferred GRNs, we simulate gene expression changes in response to transcription factor (TF) perturbation, enabling network configurations to be interrogated in silico, facilitating their interpretation. We validate the efficacy of CellOracle to recapitulate known regulatory changes across hematopoiesis, correctly predicting the outcomes of well-characterized TF perturbations. Integrating CellOracle analysis with lineage tracing of direct reprogramming reveals distinct network configurations underlying different reprogramming failure modes. Furthermore, analysis of GRN reconfiguration along successful reprogramming trajectories identifies new factors to enhance target cell yield, uncovering a role for the AP-1 subunit Fos, with the hippo signaling effector, Yap1. Together, these results demonstrate the efficacy of CellOracle to infer and interpret cell-type-specific GRN configurations, at high-resolution, promoting new mechanistic insights into the regulation and reprogramming of cell identity. CellOracle code and documentation are available at https://github.com/morris-lab/CellOracle.
Coastal Stratocumulus Dissipation Dependence on Initial Conditions and Boundary Forcings in a Mixed-Layer Model

Author(s): Zapata, Monica Zamora; Norris, Joel R; Kleissl, Jan | Abstract: Abstract The impact of initial states and meteorological variables on stratocumulus cloud dissipation time over coastal land is investigated using a mixed-layer model. A large set of realistic initial conditions and forcing parameters are derived from radiosonde observations and numerical weather prediction model outputs, including total water mixing ratio and liquid water potential temperature profiles (within the boundary layer, across the capping inversion, and at 3 km), inversion-base height and cloud thickness, large-scale divergence, wind speed, Bowen ratio, sea surface fluxes, sky effective radiative temperature, shortwave irradiance above the cloud, and sea level pressure. We study the sensitivity of predicted dissipation time using two analyses. In the first, we simulate 195 cloudy days (all variables covary as observed in nature). We caution that simulated predictions correlate only weakly to observations of dissipation time, but the simulation approach is robust and facilitates covariability testing. In the second, a single variable is varied around an idealized reference case. While both analyses agree in that initial conditions influence dissipation time more than forcing parameters, some results with covariability differ greatly from the more traditional sensitivity analysis and with previous studies: opposing trends are observed for boundary layer total water mixing ratio and Bowen ratio, and covariability diminishes the sensitivity to cloud thickness and inversion height by a factor of 5. With covariability, the most important features extending predicted cloud lifetime are (i) initially thicker clouds, higher inversion height, and stronger temperature inversion jumps, and (ii) boundary forcings of lower sky effective radiative temperature.
Correction to: Imaging Dynamin-Related Protein 1 (Drp1)-Mediated Mitochondrial Fission in Living Cells

The chapter was inadvertently published with the incorrect unit mm (millimeters) as "Step size, mm (z-stack)" instead of μm (micrometers) as "Step size, μm (z-stack)".
Shield Maidens, Fashy Femmes, and TradWives: Feminism, Patriarchy, and Right-Wing Populism.

Revised Abstract Text -- 11/27/2020 Although media images typically present the alt right as a ‘manosphere,’ white women continue to participate actively in white supremacist movements. Alt right women's presence as ‘shield maidens,’ ‘fashy femmes,’ and ‘trad wives” serves to soften and normalize white supremacy, often in ironic and insidious ways. In this essay, I examine the continued investment of white women in these traditional sex/gender roles espoused by the alt right. While feminism has done much to liberate women, I conclude that the images of women as Moms circulating in mainstream politics today suggest that white supremacy and white women's complicity in it has yet to be overcome.
The interaction between BMI, weight criticism, weight bias, and psychological and relational outcomes within marriage.

PURPOSE To examine (1) whether a wife's BMI interacts with either her husband's weight stigma or (2) her perceived weight criticisms from her husband predict husbands' and wives' psychological and relational outcomes. METHODS The study sample consisted of 209 currently married men and women in a heterosexual relationship. Participants were drawn from an online survey platform (Qualtrics, Inc. Provo, UT) designed to approximate the US population on age, race, and region of the country. Online measures assessed husbands' weight stigma, wives' perceived weight criticisms from husband, and husbands' and wives': (1) relationship satisfaction, (2) sexual intimacy, (3) self-esteem, (4) depressive symptoms, and (5) perceptions of a desirable or ideal mate. RESULTS Wives' BMI interacted with husbands' weight stigma to predict (1) mate value for husbands and wives and (2) marital satisfaction for husbands. The same pattern was noted with interaction of wives' BMI and perceptions of husbands' weight related criticisms. The interaction reflected that higher wife BMI and higher husband weight stigma or wife perceived weight-related criticism predicted lower marital satisfaction, greater depression, and lower perceptions of a desirable or an ideal mate. Lower BMI was not associated with outcomes regardless of the husbands' weight stigma or wives' perceived weight-related criticisms. CONCLUSION To understand the impact of weight stigma and weight related criticisms on perceptions of a desirable or ideal mate and marital outcomes, it is important to examine the interaction with partner's BMI. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III: Evidence obtained from cohort or case-control analytic studies.
The Good, Bad, and Ugly: Sustainable Development in Cuba and its Ethical Implications

An in-country research project funded by a Hackworth Research Grant from the Markkula Center for Applied Ethics on the impact of market liberalization on Cuba’s sustainable development and growing socioeconomic and racial stratification.
A High-throughput, Robotic System for Analysis of Aerosol Sampling Filters

ABSTRACT The determination of accumulated mass on filter-based aerosol samples is the basis for many forms of scientific research and regulatory monitoring of air quality. However, gravimetric analysis of air sampling filters is tedious, time-intensive, and prone to human error. This work describes the development of an Automated Air Analysis Facility (AIRLIFT) for high-throughput gravimetric mass and optical black carbon measurements of filter-based aerosol samples. The AIRLIFT consists of a sealed environmental enclosure, a 6-axis articulating robotic arm, a programmable control system, a filter weighing apparatus, and an optical system for the determination of aerosol black carbon via light attenuation. The system actively monitors microbalance stability and chamber relative humidity. Digital imaging and QR code scanning support sample tracking and data logging. Performance metrics for temperature and humidity control and weight stability were found to meet or exceed minimum requirements set forth by the US Environmental Protection Agency. The AIRLIFT is capable of analyzing approximately 260 filters per day while reducing the required personnel time by a factor of ~4.
Exertional heat illnesses in marching band artists: a case series

Marching band (MB) artists frequently spend many hours engaged in outdoor physical activity. Anecdotal evidence and small studies have indicated that MB artists do experience heat-related health problems. Yet, unlike athletes, military personnel, or workers, there is very little research on heat-related hazards among this unique population. Here, we seek to understand the incidence and circumstances under which exertional heat illnesses (EHIs) occur among MB artists over a 31-year period (1990–2020) across the USA. Using an on-line news dataset, we identified 34 separate events and at least 393 total EHIs. Heat syncope (~ 55%) and heat exhaustion (~ 44%) comprised the majority of EHIs, although a small number of exertional heat stroke cases were also reported. EHIs were reported in all types of MB activities with ~ 32% during rehearsal, ~ 29% during parades, ~ 21% during competition, and ~ 15% during a performance. Also, the vast majority of events occurred with high school (~ 88%) marching bands. Finally, EHIs overwhelmingly occurred when the weather was unusually hot by local conditions. In light of these findings, we emphasize the need for MB specific heat polices that incorporate weather-based activity modification, acclimatization, education about EHIs, and access to on-site medical professionals.
Effects of radiation and chemotherapy on adipose stem cells: Implications for use in fat grafting in cancer patients.

Effects of radiation and chemotherapy on adipose stem cells: Implications for use in fat grafting in cancer patients
Muslim Belonging in Assam: History, Politics and the Future

How did the Muslims of Assam become outsiders in Assam? This essay attempts to answer this question by probing the colonial and post-colonial history of categorising people that has located Muslims...
Hospital-based traceback program for prior ovarian cancer patients results in minimal uptake of genetic counseling and testing

Objectives: Objective: To determine the feasibility of a hospital-based approach to implementation of a genetic testing traceback program for ovarian cancer patients Methods: The Division of Cancer Prevention and the Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, National Cancer Institute (NCI) recognized the opportunity lost by the lack of genetic counseling and/or testing (GC/T) for BRCA1 and BRCA2 in previously diagnosed women with ovarian cancer (OC). During a 2016 workshop, they coined the term ‘traceback’ to describe the concept of offering GC/T to these patients and families that should have been offered services previously. We identified traceback-eligible patients and patient-designated surrogates (emergency contacts, medical power-of-attorney designees, family members) using tumor registry and electronic medical record data. Eligible patients had histology-confirmed epithelial malignancies of ovarian, fallopian tube, or peritoneal origin. All living patients were sent a letter explaining the availability of GC/T and surrogates of deceased patients were called on the telephone. Outcomes of contact attempts were systematically recorded and statistically described. Results: We identified 176 presumed-living and 441 deceased trace-back-eligible OC patients diagnosed between 2006-2016. For living patients, 6% (n=11) of letters were returned without forwarding address and 1% (n=2) contacted our office upon receipt of the letter and scheduled genetic counseling visits. Telephone numbers but no other contact information details were available for at least one surrogate for 91% (n=401) of deceased patients. The most commonly listed primary surrogates were spouses (41%) followed by daughters (21%). Approximately 20% (n=.77) of contact attempts to primary surrogates have resulted in a phone conversation about the availability of GC/T. More than half (64%) have required more than one call. Of the primary surrogates successfully contacted, 40% have previously heard of GC/T for OC before, 28% have discussed GC/T with their healthcare providers, 9% had already had GC/T and 13% were interested in GC/T at this time. Phone numbers were invalid for 20% of primary contacts. Overall, hospital-based traceback resulted in GC/T for 2% of those patients and surrogates contacted. Conclusions: While feasible, telephone-based contact of patient-designated surrogates is time-intensive and results in minimal uptake of GC/T. To practically execute this type of outreach program, health systems should consider collection of alternative contact information details like email addresses for surrogates and should consider the development of family registries for future contact.
WHAT DOES DYNAMICS OF TOURISM MARKETING SHOW IN 12 DEVELOPING COUNTRIES

This study is motivated by the idea to what extent tourism marketing investment contributes to tourism demand expansion. It searches for better estimation methods that can deal with the inter-temporal and cross-section correlation of the disturbances. The effect of omitting the tourism marketing variable, as evidenced by the drastic change in long and short-run elasticity values for all tourism demand models, has emerged clearly. There is a need for the national tourism institutions to have a clear, consistent, and sustained investment policy in tourism marketing activities with respect to enhanced effectiveness in allocating financial resources. Keywords: Tourism Marketing, 12 Developing Countries, Dynamic Panel, Elasticity Values, Omission of Tourism Marketing Variable. JEL: Z33, C23,O50
Student-developed learning resources for the anatomical sciences (719.12)

The process of creating learning resources provides students with opportunities to explore information, create study aids, and identify learning gaps prior to an examination. We present two example...
Variations in attachment of a cysteine conjugate to soluble ribonucleic acid.

Abstract A cell-free system was prepared from rat liver which catalyzed the incorporation of cysteine and the analogue of cysteine, S-(1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-hydroxy-1-naphthyl)-l-cysteine, into ribosomal protein. Fractionation of this system with (NH4)2SO4 resulted in the separation of the cysteinyl soluble ribonucleic acid synthetase (cysteinyl-sRNA synthetase) from the aminoacyl-sRNA synthetases, presumably those for valine and isoleucine, that catalyzed the transfer of the S-substituted cysteine analogue to sRNA. Furthermore, in incubation media that contained the synthetases for cysteine and analogue transfer, an excess of unlabeled cysteine did not inhibit aminoacylation of sRNA by the 3H- or 35S-labeled analogue. However, the addition of either valine or isoleucine produced a marked inhibition of the transfer of radioactive tetrahydrohydroxynaphthylcysteine to sRNA. These observations were consistent with the concept that valyl- and isoleucyl-sRNA synthetases and their respective transfer RNAs are operational for the cysteine analogue. In contrast, the reaction of 1,2-epoxy-1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene with cysteinyl-sRNA resulted in formation of the analogue attached to the cysteine transfer RNA. The incorporation of (1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-2-hydroxy-1-naphthyl)-l-cysteine into protein should occur in a position determined by the species of sRNA that is acting as the transfer agent.
The Algebra of Financial Asymmetry: A Schematic Approach to Semideviation and Semivariance

Modern portfolio theory remains the dominant paradigm of financial risk management. Behavioral economics, however, targets one of modern portfolio theory’s greatest pitfalls: its symmetrical view of all deviations from expected return, positive or negative, as if investors viewed excess returns to be as troubling as failures to meet a targeted level of returns. This article evaluates a range of measures designed to gauge financial risk through semideviation or semivariance: the Sortino ratio, Morningside's upside and downside capture ratios, and the omega and kappa measures.
Interaction of fibrinogen and its derivatives with fibrin

Abstract The binding between complementary polymerization sites of fibrin monomers plays an essential role in the formation of the fibrin clot. One set of polymerization sites involved in the interaction of fibrin monomers is believed to pre-exist in fibrinogen, while the complementary set of binding sites is exposed after the cleavage of fibrinopeptides from fibrinogen. The polymerization sites present in fibrinogen and its derivatives mediate their binding to fibrin. Although the binding of fibrinogen and its derivatives to fibrin have been qualitatively studied, there has been no systematic, quantitative investigation of their interaction with forming or preformed clots. In the present study, the binding of fibrinogen and fragments DD, D1, and E1 was measured using a sonicated suspension of plasminogen- and thrombin-free human cross-linked fibrin as a model of a preformed clot. Dissociation constants of 0.056, 0.19, and 2.44 microM, and the number of binding sites corresponding to 0.10, 0.21, and 0.13/fibrin monomer unit of fibrin polymer were found for fibrinogen, fragment DD, and fragment D1, respectively. Fragment E1 did not bind to sonicated noncross-linked or cross-linked fibrin suspensions. However, it was bound to forming fibrin clots as well as to fibrin-Celite, suggesting that the binding sites on fibrin involved in the interaction with fragment E1 may have been altered upon sonication. Affinity chromatography of various fibrinogen derivatives on a fibrin-Celite column showed that only part of the bound fragment DD was displaced by arginine, whereas fragments D1 and E1 were completely eluted under the same conditions. The results indicate that interaction of fibrinogen with the preformed fibrin clots is characterized by affinity in the nanomolar range and that binding between fibrin monomers, in the process of clot formation, could be characterized by even a higher affinity.
First‐trimester growth discordance and adverse pregnancy outcome in dichorionic twins

Objective To evaluate the association between first-trimester growth discordance and adverse pregnancy outcome in dichorionic twin pregnancies. METHODS This was a retrospective cohort study of consecutive women with dichorionic twin pregnancies undergoing an ultrasound scan at our institution between 7 and 14 weeks' gestation. Study groups were defined by the presence or absence of ≥ 11% crown–rump length (CRL) discordance. Pregnancies were excluded if one twin was dead on initial ultrasound or if a termination was performed. The primary outcome was loss of one or both fetuses before 20 weeks. Secondary outcomes included fetal anomaly, fetal demise after 20 weeks (stillbirth), small-for-gestational-age (SGA) at birth, admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and preterm delivery before 34 weeks. Results Of 805 dichorionic twin pregnancies undergoing first-trimester ultrasound, 610 met the inclusion criteria. Eighty-six had ≥ 11% CRL discordance and, of these, nine (10.5%) had a fetal loss at < 20 weeks (risk ratio (RR) 7.8 (95% CI, 3.0–20.5)). In the surviving pregnancies, an increased risk of fetal anomalies was seen (27.3 vs 17.4%, RR 1.6 (95% CI, 1.1–2.4)). In surviving pregnancies unaffected by anomalies, no increased risk of stillbirth, SGA, NICU admission or delivery before 34 weeks was noted in the discordant group. A post-hoc power analysis demonstrated 80% power to detect a five-fold increase in the risk of stillbirth and 90% power to detect a two-fold increase in other outcomes. Conclusion Dichorionic pregnancies in which a CRL discordance of at least 11% is noted are at increased risk for fetal anomalies and fetal loss prior to 20 weeks' gestation. However, patients can be reassured that, in the absence of structural anomalies, CRL discordance does not appear to be associated with other adverse outcomes in continuing pregnancies, although the power to detect small increases in the risk of stillbirth may have been limited by the sample size. Copyright © 2012 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
An adaptive multigrid method for the euler equations

It is well known that an accurate solution to the Euler equations requires more resolution in some parts of the flow field than others. Just where these regions are, and how fine the mesh spacing must be, depends on characteristics of the solution to be computed, and changes with different flow parameters, such as Mach number, angle of attack, etc. Therefore, it cannot be known in advance of the computation. A solution technique which gets comparable accuracy over the entire flow field, thus using fewer points in smoother regions of the solution and more elsewhere, would clearly be optimal. In this talk, we describe a method of local adaptive grid refinement for the solution of the steady Euler equations in two dimensions, which automatically selects regions requiring mesh refinement by measuring the local truncation error. Our method of refinement uses locally uniform fine rectangles which are superimposed on a global coarse grid. Possibly several nested levels of refined grids will be used until a given accuracy is attained. The fine grid patches are in the same coordinate system as the underlying coarse grid. All the data management is done in the computational plane, where, since we use rectangular grids, the data structures and bookkeeping can be very simple (see figure i). Furthermore, the same data structures and control flow needed for adaptive grid refinement are also required for multigrid convergence acceleration. This can therefore be added with little additional cost. Other adaptive mesh strategies have previously been proposed. Many of them are moving grid point methods, where a logically rectangular mesh is distorted to put more grid points in region where the solution error is large. Brackbill and Saltzman [3] do this by having their mesh minimize a functional which includes terms measuring the solution error, grid smoothness, and grid orthogonality. Rai and Anderson [4] attract the grid points into regions with high error by determining grid point speeds. These methods seem to work well in the examples in the literature, and they do not suffer from the difficulties with conservation that a patched grid method has at the grid interfaces. However, controlling the grid skewness in these methods is very difficult, and will be more so in three dimensions. Our method does not have this drawback. Furthermore, in a moving grid point method, it is still desirable to have a mechanism to add new points if necessary. Recent work by Murman and Usab [5] presents a similar approach to grid adaption using nested grid patches, but does not include a procedure for automatic control of the error. We add here that
Inherent Stochasticity of Superconductor-Resistor Switching Behavior in Nanowires

We study the stochastic dynamics of superconductive-resistive switching in hysteretic current-biased superconducting nanowires undergoing phase-slip fluctuations. We evaluate the mean switching time using the master-equation formalism, and hence obtain the distribution of switching currents. We find that as the temperature is reduced this distribution initially broadens; only at lower temperatures does it show the narrowing with cooling naively expected for phase slips that are thermally activated. We also find that although several phase-slip events are generally necessary to induce switching, there is an experimentally accessible regime of temperatures and currents for which just one single phase-slip event is sufficient to induce switching, via the local heating it causes.
Clinical Observations of Play of Hospitalized Suicidal Children

This paper emphasizes the usefulness of play observation for diagnosis, treatment, and understanding suicidal behavior of children. Predictive indicators of play for potential suicidal behavior are themes of separation and loss, repetition of dangerous and reckless behavior, misuse and destruction of toys, and repetitive acting out of omnipotent fantasies. The selection of a suicidal method is partly derived from unconscious motivations that are illustrated in play themes. This study revealed a characteristic suicidal technique of latency age children seems to be jumping from heights.
Disjunctor selection for one-line jokes

Here we present a model of a subtype of one-line jokes (not puns) that describes the relationship between the connector (part of the set-up) and the disjunctor (often called the punchline). This relationship is at the heart of what makes this common type of joke humorous. We have implemented this model in a system, DisS (Disjunctor Selector), which, given a joke set-up, can select the best disjunctor from a list of alternatives. DisS agrees with human judges on the best disjunctor for one typical joke, and we are currently testing it on other jokes of the same sub-type.
Plasmonic nanograting enhanced quantum dots excitation for cellular imaging on-chip

We present the design and integration of a two-dimensional (2D) plasmonic nanogratings structure on the electrode of colloidal quantum dot-based light-emitting diodes (QDLEDs) as a compact light source towards arrayed on-chip imaging of tumor cells. Colloidal quantum dots (QDs) were used as the emission layer due to their unique capabilities, including multicolor emission, narrow bandwidth, tunable emission wavelengths, and compatibility with silicon fabrication. The nanograting, based on a metal-dielectric-metal plasmonic waveguide, aims to enhance the light intensity through the resonant reflection of surface plasmon (SP) waves. The key parameters of plasmonic nanogratings, including periodicity, slit width, and thicknesses of the metal and dielectric layers, were designed to tailor the frequency bandgap such that it matches the wavelength of operation. We fabricated QDLEDs with the integrated nanogratings and demonstrated an increase in electroluminescence intensity, measured along the direction perpendicular to the metal electrode. We found an increase of 34.72% in QDLED electroluminescence intensity from the area of the pattern and an increase of 32.63% from the photoluminescence of QDs deposited on a metal surface. We performed ex vivo transmission-mode microscopy to evaluate the nucleus-cytoplasm ratios of MDA-MB 231 cultured breast cancer cells using QDLEDs as the light source. We showed wavelength dependent imaging of different cell components and imaging of cells at higher magnification using enhanced emission from QDLEDs with integrated plasmonic nanogratings.
Motivational, emotional, and personality characteristics of smokeless tobacco users compared with cigarette smokers

Abstract Consistent evidence from a large number of studies suggests that personality, motivation, and emotional factors contribute to the initiation and continued use of tobacco products. This study compared the reasons why male smokers (N = 267) and smokeless tobacco (SLT) users (N = 271) begin and continue to use tobacco products. The study participants completed the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire (EPQ), and Spielberger State–Trait Personality Inventory (STPI) and Anger EXpression (AX) Scale. They also responded to questionnaires designed to evaluate the initiation, maintenance, and motivation to use tobacco. Both SLT-users and smokers reported novelty and enjoyment as the primary reasons for beginning to use tobacco products. Enjoyment, stimulation and management of emotions were ranked by both groups as the most important reasons for continuing to use tobacco. Significant correlations of the EPQ, STPI, and AX scales with measures of the initiation, maintenance and motivation to use tobacco support Eysenck Diathesis Stress Model in explaining the persistent use of tobacco products.
Will Rural Tobacco Farmers Plant Organic Crops? Shaving Square Peg Theories for Round Hole Reality

The ONE and Entrepreneurship divisions appear to address directly the opportunity of organic crops for displaced rural tobacco farmers. ONE's mission is to bring high quality research to bear on in...
Uptake and tissue distribution of abiotic particles from the alimentary tract of the American oyster: A simulation of intracellular parasitism

Abstract Windows were cut in the left valves of American oysters, Crassostrea virginica, to access the mouth. A suspension of 2.16-μm-diameter fluorescent polystyrene beads were introduced into their stomachs by intubation and the windows were sealed. Stomach contents were sampled and vibratome cross sections were made at various time intervals postintubation. The locations of the beads in the tissues were mapped using an image analysis system. Hemocytes containing phagocytized beads were found in the lumen of the stomach shortly after intubation. Hemocytes with internalized beads were clustered in the tissues around the gut, in the mantle cavity, and in the palps at 2 hr postintubation. At 2 and 5 days after intubation the intracellular beads were randomly scattered in the tissues and not necessarily associated with the digestive tract. The number of beads present in the tissues diminished with time but some remained in the tissues 10 days after intubation. The polystyrene beads simulate to some extent parasites, which are phagocytized but are not destroyed by the hemocytes. These data show that indigestible particles carried in the phagosomes of hemocytes can enter the tissues from the stomach. The phagocytized particles are gradually eliminated from the tissues, but a number remain residual in the tissues within hemocytes for more than 10 days.
Genetic diversity and population divergence in fragmented habitats: Conservation of Idaho ground squirrels

The Idaho ground squirrel, which consists of a northern (Spermophilus brunneus brunneus) and a southern subspecies (S. b. endemicus), has suffered from habitat loss and fragmentation, resulting in a reduction in both numbers and geographic range of the species. The northern Idaho ground squirrel (NIDGS) is listed as a threatened subspecies under the Endangered Species Act, and the southern Idaho ground squirrel (SIDGS) is a candidate. Because Idaho ground squirrel populations are small and often isolated, they are susceptible to inbreeding and loss of genetic diversity through drift. This research evaluates levels of genetic diversity and patterns of population divergence in both subspecies of Idaho ground squirrels. We hypothesized that NIDGS would exhibit lower genetic diversity and greater population divergence due to a longer period of population isolation relative to most SIDGS populations. Genetic diversity and divergence were quantified using 8 microsatellite loci. Contrary to expectations, SIDGS populations exhibited consistently lower levels of microsatellite diversity. Additionally, NIDGS exhibited only modest divergence among populations, while divergence levels among SIDGS populations were highly varied. Preliminary evaluations of mitochondrial DNA diversity and structure revealed lower diversity in NIDGS and some differences in gene flow that warrant further study. Based on our results, we suggest different management strategies for the two subspecies. Habitat restoration appears to be the most desirable conservation strategy for NIDGS populations. In contrast, low genetic diversity observed in SIDGS may warrant supplementation of isolated populations through translocations or captive breeding to mitigate further loss of genetic variability.
Cw excited state absorption in ruby

Abstract Observation of excited state absorption in ruby under cw conditions is described.
Applying metabolomics to uncover novel biology in ARDS

A better understanding of the pathogenesis and the resolution of the acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is needed. Although some progress has been made with the use of protein biomarkers and candidate gene studies in understanding the pathobiology of ARDS, we propose that new studies that measure the chemical breakdown products of cellular metabolism (metabolomics) may provide new insights into ARDS, in part because metabolomics targets a later point in the genomics cascade than is possible with studies of DNA, RNA, and protein biomarkers. Technological advances have made large-scale metabolomic profiling increasingly feasible. Metabolomic approaches have already achieved novel insights in nonpulmonary diseases such as diabetes mellitus and malignancy, as well as in sepsis, a major risk factor for developing ARDS. Metabolomic profiling is a promising approach to identify novel pathways in both patients at risk for developing ARDS as well as in the early phase of established ARDS.
Role of the temporal cilioretinal artery in retaining central visual field in open-angle glaucoma.

The authors reviewed the optic disc photographs of 34 eyes with high-pressure open-angle glaucoma with advanced visual field loss. Thirteen eyes (38%) had one or two temporal cilioretinal arteries, and 21 eyes (62%) had no temporal cilioretinal artery. All 13 eyes with a temporal cilioretinal artery retained central visual field and had visual acuity of 20/40 or better. In the 21 eyes without a temporal cilioretinal artery, 8 eyes lost central visual field and 12 eyes had a visual acuity of less than 20/40, while 13 eyes retained central visual field and 9 eyes had a visual acuity of 20/40 or better. Significant differences were obtained when eyes with and without cilioretinal arteries were compared for retention of visual field ( P P
Substance use and risky sexual behavior among homeless and runaway youth.

Abstract Purpose: To (a) characterize human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-related risk behaviors of homeless youth; (b) determine whether substance use is associated with risky sexual behavior in this population; and, if so, (c) explore explanations for this relationship. Methods: A purposive sample of 327 homeless youth (ages 14–21 years) in Washington, DC, were surveyed in 1995 and 1996. Survey items were adapted from items used in a national study of adult substance use and sexual behavior and measured global (lifetime) and event-specific (most recent sexual encounter) behaviors. Results: Sexual activity with many partners, "survival" sex, and substance use were common. However, needle use was rare, and consistent condom use was evident in half the sample. Nearly all correlations between global measures of substance use and risky sex were statistically significant, but only a few of the event-specific correlations were significant. Marijuana use during the most recent sexual encounter was associated with nonuse of condoms, but this relationship disappeared in the multivariate model. However, crack use during the last encounter was associated with condom use; this relationship remained significant in the multivariate model. Lack of motivation to use condoms, longer histories of sexual activity and homelessness, symptoms of drug dependency, not discussing HIV risks with partner, and being female were also associated with nonuse of condoms. Conclusions: Homeless youth do use condoms, even within the context of substance use and casual sex. Results suggest that prevention and targeted intervention efforts have had some positive effect on this population, but young homeless women are in need of targeted prevention. Finally, additional research is needed to investigate the observed relationship between crack use and condom use in this sample.
Patterns of thermal maturity as diagnostic criteria for interpretation of melanges

Melanges are common constituents of ancient subduction complexes. Interpretations of melange genesis fall into five general categories: (1) gravitationally induced lateral spreading of the slope apron; (2) large-scale mass wasting (olistostromes); (3) subduction-driven viscous flow within “channels” at the base of the accretionary wedge; (4) diapiric injection; and (5) tectonic deformation within shear zones. interpretations are more viable when thermal-maturity data are considered along with structural and stratigraphic aspects. To document each distinct type of thermal-maturity signature, paleotemperature data must be extracted from both the matrix lithologies and the blocks of sedimentary rock within a melange, as well as from surrounding formations or structural domains.
Effect of the concentrations of magnesium and calcium on the in-vitro susceptibility of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to gentamicin.

The concentrations of magnesium and calcium in culture media, which differ markedly among various media and among lots of the same media, significantly affect in-vitro susceptibility of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to gentamicin. The MIC for 18 isolates was compared in Mueller-Hinton broth (MHB) and on four solid media. Defining sensitivity as an MIC of 5 [ig/ml or less, the incidence of P. aeruginosa resistant to gentamicin varied between zero and 72 96. The average MIC for 128 isolates was 3.7 ? 0.2 (se) \igZml with MHB solidified with agar (Mg++ ,
COMPLEXING OF CALCIUM BY HEXAMETAPHOSPHATE, OXALATE, CITRATE, AND ETHYLENEDIAMINE-TETRAACETATE IN MILK. II. DIALYSIS OF MILK CONTAINING COMPLEXING AGENTS.

Abstract The influence of hexametaphosphate (HMP), oxalate, citrate, and ethyl-enediamine-tetraacetate (EDTA) on salt equilibria in milk was studied by continuous and equilibrium dialyses of milk containing up to 30mm of these agents. Alteration of milk was determined by the rate of diffusion of calcium and phosphorus from milks containing various concentrations of the agents. Added sodium citrate dissolved a portion of the calcium and all of the inorganic phosphate. Oxalate and EDTA made diffusible all of the calcium in milk. HMP was unique in that phosphorus and calcium were less diffusible with small amounts of HMP. Excessive additions induced decomposition of the colloidal inorganic salts similar to that which occurred from citrate. Certain amounts of HMP still remained in the nondiffusible phase after dialysis, indicating that it combined with the casein complex.
Parallel Inverse Modeling and Uncertainty Quantification for Computationally Demanding Groundwater-Flow Models Using Covariance Matrix Adaptation

AbstractThis study investigates the performance of the covariance matrix adaptation-evolution strategy (CMA-ES), a stochastic optimization method, in solving groundwater inverse problems. The objectives of the study are to evaluate the computational efficiency of the parallel CMA-ES and to investigate the use of the empirically estimated covariance matrix in quantifying model prediction uncertainty due to parameter estimation uncertainty. First, the parallel scaling with increasing number of processors up to a certain limit is discussed for synthetic and real-world groundwater inverse problems. Second, through the use of the empirically estimated covariance matrix of parameters from the CMA-ES, the study adopts the Monte Carlo simulation technique to quantify model prediction uncertainty. The study shows that the parallel CMA-ES is an efficient and powerful method for solving the groundwater inverse problem for computationally demanding groundwater flow models and for deriving covariances of estimated par...
SYNGAMY AND RESTING BODY DEVELOPMENT IN CHYTRIOMYCES HYALINUS (CHYTRIDIALES)

Somatogamy by rhizoidal anastomosis initiates sexual reproduction and resting body formation in Chytriomyces hyalinus Karling. At least two external factors influence somatogamy: the level of nutrients available and the chance association of rhizoids of young thalli (germlings). Syngamy and resting body development occurs in axenic culture when germlings are developing on a nutrient-depleted substrate and when the rhizoids of two germlings (contributing thalli) anastomose. After anastomosis, the contents of the two contributing thalli flow into a swelling (incipient fusion body) which develops near the point of anastomosis. Nuclear fusion occurs in the fusion body (incipient resting body). After nuclear fusion, the resting body continues to enlarge, its wall thickens, and lipoid inclusions coalesce to form a large refractile globule. This sexual process is better referred to as somatogamy rather than Siphonaria-type sexual reproduction.
Concise Review: Stem Cell Therapy for Muscular Dystrophies

Muscular dystrophy comprises a group of genetic diseases that cause progressive weakness and degeneration of skeletal muscle resulting from defective proteins critical to muscle structure and function. This leads to premature exhaustion of the muscle stem cell pool that maintains muscle integrity during normal use and exercise. Stem cell therapy holds promise as a treatment for muscular dystrophy by providing cells that can both deliver functional muscle proteins and replenish the stem cell pool. Here, we review the current state of research on myogenic stem cells and identify the important challenges that must be addressed as stem cell therapy is brought to the clinic.
Nonlinear regression for dependent variables

Nonlinear regression methods can be used to fit functions for two related variables where both variables are subject to error. A computer program for nonlinear estimation described previously has been modified to fit such functions for a given set of data. A numerical example is provided for a second-degree equation in xand y.A closer fit to an observed set of data is possible if the error structure for the variables is specified.
Nonflammable Low GWP Working Fluid for Organic Rankine Cycles

Regulatory pressure has been increasing globally to address the issue of climate change. In particular, there are plans to reduce the use of hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) based working fluids across many applications, as HFCs are forecast to be significant contributors to global warming in the future. Therefore, there is a need to find low global warming potential (GWP) fluids suitable for organic rankine cycles (ORCs) in those systems where HFCs have historically been preferred. These are usually systems that require a non-flammable working fluid. A new ORC working fluid, cis-1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluoro-2-butene, also called DR-2 (cis-CF3CH=CHCF3) has been developed which is nonflammable with very low GWP of 8.9 and an ozone depletion potential (ODP) of zero because it contains no chlorine or other halogen atoms other than fluorine. DR-2 also has a favorable toxicity profile based on testing to date. DR-2 is thermally stable in the presence of lubricant and metals, air and oxygen up to the maximum temperature tested of 250°C. DR-2 has a boiling point of 33.4°C and a relatively high critical temperature of 171.3°C, which result in relatively low vapor pressures and high cycle energy efficiencies. It can enable more environmentally sustainable ORC platforms to generate electrical power from widely available heat at higher temperatures and with higher energy efficiencies than incumbent working fluids.Copyright © 2014 by ASME