cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Optimizing Requirements for a Compact Spaceborne Adaptive Spectral Imaging System in Subpixel Target Detection Applications

We developed a process to provide design recommendations for compact spaceborne spectral imaging systems with adaptive band selection capabilities. Our focus application was subpixel target detection, and we analyzed a set of mission scenarios to find relationships in detection performance between selected parameters of interest. We used an analytic model to predict performance and generate trade curves, then simulated a scene to analyze potential operational effects on performance for the selected target and background combinations. Using these models, we predicted and assessed each scenario to provide recommendations for mission feasibility and system design. The parameters we selected for analysis were target fill fraction, noise, number of bands, and scene complexity to find critical points in the trade space and reach a set of recommendations. We examined the operational effects by simulating a realistic scenario and ensuring key real-world phenomena were captured within the spectral images. Our results produced recommendations for each mission and provided a proof of concept for a process to analyze designs of miniature spaceborne imaging systems.
Complete Genome Sequence of Starkeya sp. Strain ORNL1, a Soil Alphaproteobacterium Isolated from the Rhizosphere of Populus deltoides.

ABSTRACT Starkeya sp. strain ORNL1 is an alphaproteobacterium isolated from the rhizosphere of an Eastern cottonwood tree. Starkeya spp. are physiologically versatile, using a wide range of nutritional and energetic resources and serving important ecological roles in carbon and sulfur cycling. The 6.3-Mb chromosome of Starkeya sp. strain ORNL1 was completely sequenced and will help in understanding nutrient cycles.
“A smartphone made my life easier”: An exploratory study on age of adolescent smartphone acquisition and well-being

Abstract Most adolescents in the United States have access to a smartphone. The appropriate timing of smartphone acquisition during adolescence has not been empirically determined. The current study included a diverse sample of 686 late adolescent (18–25 years old; n = 352 female) participants who acquired their smartphones in early (15.45%), middle (60.64%), and late (23.91%) adolescence. Multiple linear regression models were used to determine if age of smartphone acquisition was predictive of well-being outcomes in later adolescence. Results indicated that age of smartphone acquisition was largely not predictive of later well-being (i.e., depression, loneliness, life satisfaction, interpersonal communication, cell phone addiction). A qualitative content analysis approach was used to identify the participants’ experiences with smartphone acquisition during adolescence. Three themes were identified: development and growth, parents: gatekeepers to acquisition, and smartphones necessary for adolescent access. Results suggest that parents, maturity, and responsibility may be more important in determining timing of smartphone acquisition, rather than a specific age.
Free energy fluctuations of the $2$-spin spherical SK model at critical temperature

We investigate the fluctuations of the free energy of the $2$-spin spherical Sherrington-Kirkpatrick model at critical temperature $\beta_c = 1$. When $\beta = 1$ we find asymptotic Gaussian fluctuations with variance $\frac{1}{6N^2} \log(N)$, confirming in the spherical case a physics prediction for the SK model with Ising spins. We furthermore prove the existence of a critical window on the scale $\beta = 1 +\alpha \sqrt{ \log(N) } N^{-1/3}$. For any $\alpha \in \mathbb{R}$ we show that the fluctuations are at most order $\sqrt{ \log(N) } / N$, in the sense of tightness. If $ \alpha \to \infty$ at any rate as $N \to \infty$ then, properly normalized, the fluctuations converge to the Tracy-Widom$_1$ distribution. If $ \alpha \to 0$ at any rate as $N \to \infty$ or $ \alpha <0$ is fixed, the fluctuations are asymptotically Gaussian as in the $\alpha=0$ case. In determining the fluctuations, we apply a recent result of Lambert and Paquette on the behavior of the Gaussian-$\beta$-ensemble at the spectral edge.
Omega-3 supplementation and stress reactivity of cellular aging biomarkers: an ancillary substudy of a randomized, controlled trial in midlife adults.

Higher levels of omega-3 track with longer telomeres, lower inflammation, and blunted sympathetic and cardiovascular stress reactivity. Whether omega-3 supplementation alters the stress responsivity of telomerase, cortisol, and inflammation is unknown. This randomized, controlled trial examined the impact of omega-3 supplementation on cellular aging-related biomarkers following a laboratory speech stressor. In total, 138 sedentary, overweight, middle-aged participants (n = 93 women, n = 45 men) received either 2.5 g/d of omega-3, 1.25 g/d of omega-3, or a placebo for 4 months. Before and after the trial, participants underwent the Trier Social Stress Test. Saliva and blood samples were collected once before and repeatedly after the stressor to measure salivary cortisol, telomerase in peripheral blood lymphocytes, and serum anti-inflammatory (interleukin-10; IL-10) and pro-inflammatory (interleukin-6; IL-6, interleukin-12, tumor necrosis factor-alpha) cytokines. Adjusting for pre-supplementation reactivity, age, sagittal abdominal diameter, and sex, omega-3 supplementation altered telomerase (p = 0.05) and IL-10 (p = 0.05) stress reactivity; both supplementation groups were protected from the placebo group's 24% and 26% post-stress declines in the geometric means of telomerase and IL-10, respectively. Omega-3 also reduced overall cortisol (p = 0.03) and IL-6 (p = 0.03) throughout the stressor; the 2.5 g/d group had 19% and 33% lower overall cortisol levels and IL-6 geometric mean levels, respectively, compared to the placebo group. By lowering overall inflammation and cortisol levels during stress and boosting repair mechanisms during recovery, omega-3 may slow accelerated aging and reduce depression risk. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT00385723.
Can the Average Temperature Stabilize a System of Thermoelastic Plates

We consider a system of thermoelastic plates with the same conductivity. The coupling in each plate component involves the average temperature of all the plates in the system. We show that if the coefficients of flexural rigidity are pairwise distinct, then the system underlying semigroup is exponentially stable. This is done first for the Fourier model, and then for the Maxwell–Cattaneo model. In particular, for the Maxwell–Cattaneo model, exponential stability is established when the rotational inertia is accounted for, while only polynomial stability is established otherwise. We use a combination of the multiplier techniques and the frequency domain method to prove all results.
Lying and Smiling: Informational and Emotional Deception in Negotiation

This study investigated attitudes toward the use of deception in negotiation, with particular attention to the distinction between deception regarding the informational elements of the interaction (e.g., lying about or misrepresenting needs or preferences) and deception about emotional elements (e.g., misrepresenting one's emotional state). We examined how individuals judge the relative ethical appropriateness of these alternative forms of deception, and how these judgments relate to negotiator performance and long-run reputation. Individuals viewed emotionally misleading tactics as more ethically appropriate to use in negotiation than informational deception. Approval of deception predicted negotiator performance in a negotiation simulation and also general reputation as a negotiator, but the nature of these relationships depended on the kind of deception involved.
Evidence for Decreasing Stroke Incidence Among Mexican Americans During Mid-life and Implications for Targeted Stroke Prevention Efforts.

Disparities in stroke incidence and mortality by race and ethnicity have been persistent across study populations and over time.1-4 For example, previous data from the Brain Attack Surveillance in Corpus Christi (BASIC) project study have demonstrated higher stroke incidence rates in Mexican Americans compared with non-Hispanic White individuals,2 and data from the Greater Cincinnati Northern Kentucky Stroke Study have demonstrated more substantial decreases in White compared with Black individuals over time.1 Past data on such disparities by race and ethnicity point to the need for increased attention to the contributors to higher stroke rates in Black and Hispanic communities, including structural inequities in access to preventative care, as well as differences in other social determinants of health such as poverty and adequate health insurance coverage.
Esthetic and Functional Rehabilitation of an Adolescent Patient with Severe Dental Fluorosis: A Clinical Report.

Dental fluorosis is a developmental defect affecting amelogenesis. It presents clinically in different forms depending on the concentration, duration, and time of exposure to fluoride. Several therapeutic modalities have been described to manage mild and moderate forms of dental fluorosis; however, limited literature is available on the restorative management of severe forms of dental fluorosis, specifically in young individuals. This clinical report describes a complete prosthodontic rehabilitation of an adolescent patient with severe dental fluorosis affecting his permanent dentition. The patient was treated with a combination of monolithic, minimally-veneered zirconia crowns and direct composite resins. At the 1-year follow-up appointment, there were no complications, and both the patient's oral health and the integrity of the restorations remained stable. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Book Review: Blueprint For Learning: Constructing College Courses to Facilitate, Assess, and Document Learning by Laurie Richlin (Stylus Publishing, 2006)

Blueprint for Learning: Constructing College Courses to Facilitate, Assess, and Document Learning is an outstanding faculty development tool. It neither overcomplicates nor oversimplifies instructional design, and it provides numerous illustrations and references, making it a well-rounded tool. It would be best utilized as a study guide for faculty interested in engaging, learner-centered, accountable instruction.
Plans for Measurement of Parity Nonconservation in Elastic Scattering of Polarized Electrons by Nuclei at the Bates Linear Accelerator Center

We are planning to measure the parity-violating asymmetry A=(σ+−σ#x2212;)/(σ++σ#x2212;) for the differential elastic scattering of positive (+) and negative (#x2212;) helicity electrons from 12C nuclei. This asymmetry determines the axial-electron isoscalar coupling constant (γ in Sakurai’s notation) between electrons and quarks. Since carbon is spinless and isoscalar, it has only one form factor, which cancels in the asymmetry. The interpretation of the result is consequently free of ambiguities arising from the structure of the nucleus. The experiment will take place at the Bates Linear Accelerator Center with a 250 Mev electron beam and at a Q2 of 0.023(GeV/c)2. Polarized electrons will be provided by a photoemission solid state source.
Starch Granule Structural Changes and Amylolytic Patterns in Processed Sorghum Grain

Starch granule structural changes in steam flaked, micronized and popped sorghum grain and amylolysis of that starch by purified porcine pancreatic amylase and rumen microflora were studied by scanning electron microscopy. Steam flaking altered starch granules that either left them intact so they resembled erythrocytes or in shapeless conglomerates...
Characterization of a second carotenoid β-hydroxylase gene from Arabidopsis and its relationship to the LUT1 locus

Xanthophylls are oxygenated carotenoids that perform critical roles in plants. β-carotene hydroxylases (β-hydroxylases) add hydroxyl groups to the β-rings of carotenes and have been cloned from several bacteria and plants, including Arabidopsis. The lut1 mutation of Arabidopsis disrupts e-ring hydroxylation and has been suggested to identify a related carotene hydroxylase that functions specifically on e-ring structures. We have used library screening and genomics-based approaches to isolate a second β-hydroxylase genomic clone and its corresponding cDNA from Arabidopsis. The encoded protein is 70% identical to the previously reported Arabidopsis β-hydroxylase 1. Phylogenetic analysis indicates a common origin for the two proteins, however, their different chromosomal locations, intron positions and intron sizes suggest their duplication is not recent. Although both hydroxylases are expressed in all Arabidopsis tissues analyzed, β-hydroxylase 1 mRNA is always present at higher levels. Both cDNAs encode proteins that efficiently hydroxylate the C-3 position of β-ring containing carotenes and are only weakly active towards e-ring containing carotenes. Neither β-hydroxylase cDNA maps to the LUT1 locus, and the genomic region encompassing the LUT1 locus does not contain a third related hydroxylase. These data indicate that the LUT1 locus encodes a protein necessary for e-ring hydroxylation but unrelated to β-hydroxylases at the level of amino acid sequence.
ON THE APPLICATION OF SHORT TERM BIOTESTS TO HEALTH RISK ANALYSIS OF FLUORINATED COMPOUNDS

The use of various fluorinated compounds as insulating media for electric power transmission facilities is an example of a developing technology which may affect human health. Data on cytotoxicity, generated when the species, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, was exposed to perfluoro-2-butyne (PFB), sulfur hexafluoride (SF/sub 6/), sulfur dioxide (SO/sub 2/), octafluorocyclobutane (c-C/sub 4/F/sub 8/), and hexafluorocyclobutene (c-C/sub 4/F/sub 6/) are discussed. How such data when combined with biological data on well characterized toxic agents, can serve as input to an estimate of the human health impact or acceptable exposure limits for these fluorinated compounds is described.
Unmanned Space Project Management: Surveyor and Lunar Orbiter

An analysis of the management of two major NASA projects, Surveyor and Lunar Orbiter is presented. The analysis reflects the comments and criticisms of many NASA officials who were responsible for various phases of the projects as well as comments by knowledgeable persons outside NASA. Findings are submitted with respect to; (1) environment, (2) role of individuals, (3) teamwork, (4) roles and missions, (5) organization, and (6) cost performance.
Examining the Text Quality of English/Chinese Bilingual Children's Picture Books.

As a branch of multicultural literature, bilingual children’s picture books present a special opportunity for readers to expand their horizons and knowledge of other cultures. The researchers took a closer look at the text quality of 31 English/Chinese bilingual children’s picture books. These bilingual books were examined on the aspects of the English text’s quality, the Chinese text’s quality, and the correspondence between the English text and the Chinese text. The findings suggested that while the English text had no obvious issues, the Chinese text lacked quality. In addition, the researchers noticed that the Chinese text appeared subordinate when comparing the two texts.
Did Microsoft Deter Software Innovation

The impact of Microsoft on innovation in the computer software industry was fiercely debated during the recent antitrust case. This paper attempts to address this question through a new database that allows a comprehensive overview of patenting, venture capital financing, sales, and employment in the U.S. software industry between 1990 and 2000. While the conclusions must be necessarily tentative given the crudeness of my measures, I find little evidence consistent with the hypothesis that Microsoft has had a detrimental effect on innovation in the software industry, even after controlling for the possibility that possible that Microsoft targeted areas that also had the greatest potential for innovation and growth.
Effect of Diet and Intranephronic Calculosis on Bone Modeling and Parathyroid Volume in Rats

The effects of diet and intranephronic calculosis on bone modeling parameters and parathyroid volumes in the rat were studied. Bone chemical analyses and histomorphometric evaluation indicated that a modified AIN diet, containing minimal required levels of calcium, phosphorus and magnesium, was not nutritionally adequate. Although the mineral content of the modified AIN diet barely met the demands for normal bone modeling, both the AIN-76TM and modified AIN diet caused intranephronic calculosis. Nephrolithiasis was not observed in rats fed a natural-product diet. After 10 days, the medullary cavity size and the index of resorption were slightly greater in rats fed the calculogenic diets, but these effects were not evident at 9 weeks. A slight but highly significant difference in the bone magnesium content was observed between rats fed the semipurified and natural-product diets. At 9 weeks, the parathyroid volumes were slightly increased in rats fed the AIN-76 diet compared to rats fed the natural-product diet. It was concluded that differences in dietary content that promote or inhibit intranephronic calculosis do not alter intestinal absorption as much as they influence molecular and cellular events occurring after absorption.
A novel multiplexed fiber Bragg grating sensor with application in structural health monitoring

The use of fiber Bragg gratings (FBGs) on a single fiber for analyzing the strain in two dimensions is presented. The effects of the simultaneous transversal and longitudinal force on an FBG sensor is analyzed and its perturbed reflected spectrum is modeled by introducing the change of the refractive indecies and grating period along the fiber to the transfer matrix formulation method (‘measured’ spectrum). Furthermore, the use of genetic algorithm for reconstruction of nonuniform applied transverse forces from the ‘measured’ spectrum is presented. The genetic algorithm requires only the measured spectra information and the refractive index distribution is encoded along the Bragg grating into the genes. The presented method is verified through the numerical examples and the results show that our methodology can effectively represent and model the applied transverse force profile (© 2011 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
An Agile Classroom Experience: Teaching TDD and Refactoring

Teaching the agile practices of test-driven development and refactoring to entry level students can be a challenge. This paper outlines an approach to doing so with simplicity at its core. It has been an effective way to communicate not only the mechanics of the practices, but also the reasons behind why the practices are important to a professional software developer.
Hepatocyte growth factor ameliorates progression of interstitial fibrosis in rats with established renal injury

Hepatocyte growth factor ameliorates progression of interstitial fibrosis in rats with established renal injury. Background. Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) has been re- ported to prevent injury in several models of renal disease; how- ever, whether HGF can also retard progression of established renal disease is not known. Methods. The aim of the present study was to examine the effects of HGF on progression of chronic renal disease in rats with remnant kidneys and established injury. Studies were per- formed in rats that underwent subtotal nephrectomy, were ob- served for two weeks without therapy, and then randomized to receive HGF or vehicle by continuous infusion for an additional two weeks. Results. HGF administration was associated with a reduc- tion in morphologic evidence of interstitial, but not glomerular injury. The beneficial effects of HGF were not associated with reductions in the expression of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-b), or in the extent epithelial cell apoptosis or transdif- ferentiation. Rather, HGF appeared to induce fibrinolytic path- ways by increasing expression of metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and decreasing levels of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-2). HGF administration was also associated with an apparent in- crease in renal endothelin production and a significant reduc- tion in glomerular capillary pressure. Conclusion. These findings suggest that HGF can retard pro- gression of chronic renal disease even after injury is already established, primarily by promoting matrix degradation.
A nonblocking timed atomic commit protocol for distributed real-time database systems

Timed atomic commitment requires the processes to be functionally consistent, but allows the outcome to include an exceptional state, indicating that timing constraints have been violated. A global outcome of timed atomic commitment is allowed, the outcome being a function of the local outcomes of the participant processes. A fault-tolerant, consensus-based protocol for two-phase time atomic commitment that uses an efficient communication scheme is presented. The correctness proof of the protocol and its application to a distributed system using shared locks are provided. Implementation of the protocol and the study of different performance criteria are also outlined.
In the Context of Literary Tradition: Andrei Voznesenskii and RussianCubo-Futurism

W hen Voznesenskii published his Treugol'naiagrusha, its very title stood in need of a commentary.' "One may ask, must it necessarily be triangular?" arose the inevitable question, which in the poet's own country received merely mocking answers, and which only in the West was addressed with proper respect. "This adjective gives associations, as it seems, to cubism, to the years in Russia after 1910," noted a prominent Swedish Slavist in his article about young Voznesenskii.2 Despite all its indisputability, this statement calls for more specification that appears to be within reach. Suffice it to recall the "founder of Rus-
LYSIS OF ERYTHROCYTES BY COMPLEMENT IN THE ABSENCE OF ANTIBODY

A new pathway of complement-mediated hemolysis has been described. It is independent of antibody and does not require binding of the first four complement components to the target-cell surface. The actual attack of the target cell begins with the attachment of C5, C6, and C7. The binding reaction is catalyzed by C4, 2, 3, an enzyme which may be formed in cell-free solution. C4, 2, 3 may effect binding of C5, 6, 7 by acting from the fluid phase or from the surface of another cell to which it is specifically bound (EAC 4, 2, 3). In either case, the resulting product is EC5, 6, 7 which is susceptible to lysis by C8 and C9. Erythrocytes from patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) were particularly susceptible to lysis by the above described mechanism. PNH cells, but not normal human erythrocytes, could also be lysed through activation of complement by cobra factor. These observations allow the operational distinction of an activation and an attack mechanism of complement.
Raman and infrared spectra, conformational stability, barriers to internal rotation and ab initio calculations for 3-methyl-2-butenoyl chloride

Abstract The Raman (3200 to 20 cm−1) spectra of liquid and solid and infrared (3200 to 400 cm−1) spectra of gaseous and solid 3-methyl-2-butenoyl fluoride (3,3-dimethylacryloyl fluoride), (CH3)2C=C(H)CFO, have been recorded. The far-infrared spectrum of the gas has also been recorded from 360 to 50 cm−1 at a resolution of 0.1 cm−1. The syn (s-cis) conformer is the only stable rotamer (two double bonds oriented cis to each other) present in the fluid at ambient temperature and solid states. The barriers for the syn (s-cis) to anti (s-trans) and anti to syn conformers are predicted to be 2498 and 1931 cm−1, respectively, with an energy difference of 567 cm−1 (1.62 kcal mol−1) from the RHF/6-31G* calculations. The energy difference was only slightly smaller, 487 cm−1 (1.39 kcal mol−1) with electron correlation, i.e. MP2/6-31G*. Barriers to internal rotation of the two non-equivalent methyl rotors with torsional fundamentals at 205 (trans methyl rotor) and 109 cm−1 were determined to be 920 cm−1 (2.63 kcal mol−1) and 304 cm−1 (0.87 kcal mol−1), respectively. A complete assignment of the normal vibrational modes is proposed. The structural parameters, force constants and vibrational frequencies for the syn conformer have been determined from ab initio gradient calculations employing the RHF/3-21G* and RHF/6-31G* basis sets along with electron correlation at the MP2/6-31G* level and the theoretical results are compared to the experimental values when appropriate. These results have been compared with the corresponding ones obtained for some similar molecules.
Scaling behavior and 3D-2D dimensional crossover in ceramic Tl2Ba2Ca2Cu3O10−δ high-Tc superconductors

Abstract The scalng behavior and dimensional crossover in ceramic Tl 2 Ba 2 Ca 2 Cu 3 O 10−δ high- T c superconductors in magnetic fields 0 ≤ H ≤ 12000 Oe are determined by means of comprehensive studies of I – V curve characteristics. In the low magnetic field region 0 ≤ H ≤ 2000 Oe, well-defined three-dimensional (3D) vortex-glass phase transition temperatures T g ( H ) are found. All of the nonlinear I – V curves above and below T g ( H ) can be collapsed into two universal lines with the dynamic and static critical exponents z = 2.4 ± 0.6, v = 1.0 ± 0.2, clearly showing that the system is in 3D. When H ≈ 2000 Oe and above, the I – V curves on the log-log scale plot begin to be tortuous and this indicates that the system deviates from the 3D behavior. When H ≥ 6000 Oe, all of the I – V curves can be collapsed into one universal line with critical exponents p = 2.3 ± 0.2 and v 2d = 2.0 ± 0.3, which stands for a two dimensional (2D) vortex-glass scaling phenomenon. Our data show that in the quasi-2D region the characteristic temperature T 0 ( H ) continuously decreases as the magnetic field increases. By extensions of 3D vortex-glass phase transition model and quasi-2D scaling process into the intermediate field region (2000 H T 0 ( H ) and T g ( H ). Combining results obtained from the three different regions, a complete phase transition line is determined in the whole field region 0 ≤ H ≤ 12000 Oe.
Physiological and pathophysiological roles of eicosanoids in the microcirculation

Eicosanoids are important mediators of both physiological and pathophysiological responses of the microcirculation. These biologically active lipid mediators can be produced locally by the cellular elements within the microvasculature (endothelium, pericytes, smooth muscle cells) as well as interstitial cells (e.g. fibroblasts, mast cells) and by various cells in the vascular compartment (e.g. leukocytes, platelets). Transcellular metabolism of intermediates produced by one cell type in close contact with another also has the potential to generate potent metabolites. This review integrates some of the older literature with recent developments in eicosanoid synthesis and release, the molecular advances in the enzymology and receptor specificity of the eicosanoids and the regulation by autocoids and inflammatory mediators. The potential roles of eicosanoids in regulation of local blood flow, vascular reactivity, angiogenesis and leukocyte adhesion and transmigration are discussed.
The effect of oral ritodrine therapy on glucose tolerance in pregnancy

Intravenous ritodrine therapy can cause significant deterioration of maternal glucose homeostasis. We investigated the effect of full maintenance oral ritodrine therapy (120 mg/day) on glucose tolerance in the early third trimester with the use of 50 gm 1-hour screens followed by 100 gm 3-hour oral glucose tolerance tests if the screen level was greater than or equal to 140 mg/dl. Four hundred ninety-one patients were studied, 42 of whom were receiving oral ritodrine therapy. Twenty-one percent of the ritodrine-treated women had an abnormal 1-hour screen, which was not different from the 20% observed in women not receiving therapy. None of the treated group and 13% of the untreated group who had abnormal screens had abnormal oral glucose tolerance tests. The probability of an abnormal test after an abnormal 1-hour screen was also determined.
Social tie, social capital, and social behavior: Toward an integrative model of informal exchange

What is the unique nature of social capital that differentiates itself from other forms of capital? How should we conceptualize and operationalize social capital? What are the major drivers and outcomes of social capital? To address the three questions, I apply the duality lens—the perspective of regarding each entity as a paradox consisting of two contrasting yet interdependent components—to social capital for an integrative model of informal exchange. The focus of this paper is on the duality relationship between the content variables (social tie, social capital, social behavior along two basic dimensions: trust for tie strength and option for network structure) and the process variables (antecedent, content, process, and consequence) toward a geocentric framework of formal–informal exchange. I intend to make two contributions. First, the conceptualization and operationalization of social capital is developed from the duality lens of formal–informal exchange so as to identify the unique nature of social capital as an informal entity. Second, a holistic, dynamic, and dialectic model of social capital is provided to explore the causal links between various elements related to social capital.
An approach for preventing recombination-deletion of the 40–50 anti-digoxin antibody VH gene from the phage display vector pComb3

Phage display has been used extensively in antibody (Ab) engineering. Sometimes, however, phage display vectors exhibit deletion of immunoglobulin (Ig) genes. As an approach to circumvent the recombination-deletion of the murine anti-digoxin Fab 40-50 cloned into the pComb3 vector, the vector was modified with short synthetic oligonucleotides by replacing a pelB leader sequence with a gene 3 (g3) leader sequence and by using a single lacZ promoter sequence. By this means, the N-terminal amino acids of the L chain and Fd remained unchanged, and a random HCDR3 library built on this newly designed vector did not exhibit the recombination-deletion.
Synthesis and characterization of an O6-2′-deoxyguanosine-alkyl-O6-2′-deoxyguanosine interstrand cross-link in a 5′-GNC motif and repair by human O6-alkylguanine-DNA alkyltransferase

O6-2′-Deoxyguanosine-alkyl-O6-2′-deoxyguanosine interstrand DNA cross-links (ICLs) with a four and seven methylene linkage in a 5′-GNC- motif have been synthesized and their repair by human O6-alkylguanine-DNA alkyltransferase (hAGT) investigated. Duplexes containing 11 base-pairs with the ICLs in the center were assembled by automated DNA solid-phase synthesis using a cross-linked 2′-deoxyguanosine dimer phosphoramidite, prepared via a seven step synthesis which employed the Mitsunobu reaction to introduce the alkyl lesion at the O6 atom of guanine. Introduction of the four and seven carbon ICLs resulted in no change in duplex stability based on UV thermal denaturation experiments compared to a non-cross-linked control. Circular dichroism spectra of these ICL duplexes exhibited features of a B-form duplex, similar to the control, suggesting that these lesions induce little overall change in structure. The efficiency of repair by hAGT was examined and it was shown that hAGT repairs both ICL containing duplexes, with the heptyl ICL repaired more efficiently relative to the butyl cross-link. These results were reproducible with various hAGT mutants including one that contains a novel V148L mutation. The ICL duplexes displayed similar binding affinities to a C145S hAGT mutant compared to the unmodified duplex with the seven carbon containing ICLs displaying slightly higher binding. Experiments with CHO cells to investigate the sensitivity of these cells to busulfan and hepsulfam demonstrate that hAGT reduces the cytotoxicity of hepsulfam suggesting that the O6-2′-deoxyguanosine-alkyl-O6-2′-deoxyguanosine interstrand DNA cross-link may account for at least part of the cytotoxicity of this agent.
Efficient translation of boolean formulas to CNF in formal verification of microprocessors

We present a method for translating Boolean formulas to CNF by identifying gates with fanout count of 1, and merging them with their fanout gate to generate a single set of equivalent CNF clauses. This eliminates the intermediate CNF variable for the output of the first gate, and reduces the number of CNF clauses, compared to the conventional translation to CNF, where each gate is assigned an output variable and is represented with a separate set of CNF clauses. Chains of nested ITE operators, where each ITE is used only as else-argument of the next ITE, are similarly merged and represented with a single set of clauses without intermediate variables. This method was applied to Boolean formulas from formal verification of microprocessors. The formulas require up to hundreds of thousands of variables and millions of clauses, when translated to CNF with the conventional approach. The best translation reduced the CNF variables by up to 2/spl times/ the SAT-solver decisions by up to 5/spl times/ the SAT-solver conflicts by up to 6/spl times/ and accelerated the SAT checking by up to 7.6/spl times/ for unsatisfiable formulas, and 136/spl times/ for satisfiable ones.
Structural investigation of protein kinase C inhibitors

The phospholipid and Ca2+ dependent protein kinase (PKC) plays an essential role in a variety of cellular events. Inhibition of PKC was shown to arrest growth in tumor cell cultures making it a target for possible antitumor therapy. Calphostins are potent inhibitors of PKC with high affinity for the enzyme regulatory site. Structural characteristics of calphostins, which confer the inhibitory activity, are investigated by comparing their optimized structures with the existing models for PKC activation. The resulting model of inhibitory activity assumes interaction with two out of the three electrostatic interaction sites postulated for activators. The model shows two sites of hydrophobic interaction and enables the inhibitory activity of gossypol to be accounted for.
Quantification of bone ingrowth into porous block hydroxyapatite in humans

This study sought to quantify bone ingrowth from a single bone-implant surface into porous block hy- droxyapatite used in maxillofacial applications. Seventeen maxillary hydroxyapatite implants (implant time of 4-138 months, 39-month mean) were harvested for analysis from 14 patients. The implants had been placed into the lateral maxillary wall during orthognathic surgery, juxtapositioned to the maxillary sinus. Ingrowth was measured in 100-mm increments from a bone-implant interface to a depth of 1500 mm. Bone ingrowth averaged over the 14 patients (0-1100 mm depth) is described by the equation % ingrowth ˛ 20% * (depth in millimeters) + 41.25% (R 2 = 0.98, n = 10 incremen- tal depths). Beyond 1100 mm, the average ingrowth re- mained constant at 15.0 ± 0.7%. The duration of implanta- tion also showed as affect on the percent ingrowth into the implants at the incremental depths, and the percent in- growth asymptotically approached a maximum. Overall, the composite average data from all depths is best described by the logarithmic function % ingrowth = 15% * ln(implantation time in months) ˛ 24.0% (R 2 = 0.71, n = 14 patients). Several factors may come into play in determining bone ingrowth including the mechanical environment, the osteoconductiv- ity of the implant material, and the osteogenic capability of the tissues in the pore spaces. Measurements of bone in- growth are most influenced by the depth into the implant and the time the implant was in the body; the age of the patient had little affect on bone ingrowth. © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 47, 54-59, 1999.
Traffic-related air quality analysis and visualisation

Abstract Planners have the responsibility of presenting future consequences of proposed actions to all stakeholders in an accurate and easy-to-understand fashion. The integration of simulation models and visualisation for presentation as an integral part of the planning and decision-making process serves this purpose. While planners have used Geographic Information System (GIS), simulation models, and three-dimensional (3D) visualisation in various projects, the integrative use is still at a very early stage. Upon this consideration, we present a prototype of integrated use of the three components of information technology, using traffic impact analysis as an example. Transportation-related air quality is always a concern in urban areas where private automobiles are the primary means of transportation. Based on GIS data and traffic information together, the model generates pollutant concentration values covering a study area. The result is displayed with Triangular Irregular Network, a 3D visualisation fo...
Selection of reference genes for normalization of quantitative real-time PCR in organ culture of the rat and rabbit intervertebral disc

The accuracy of quantitative real-time RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) is often influenced by experimental artifacts, resulting in erroneous expression profiles of target genes. The practice of employing normalization using a reference gene significantly improves reliability and its applicability to molecular biology. However, selection of an ideal reference gene(s) is of critical importance to discern meaningful results. The aim of this study was to evaluate the stability of seven potential reference genes (Actb, GAPDH, 18S rRNA, CycA, Hprt1, Ywhaz, and Pgk1) and identify most stable gene(s) for application in tissue culture research using the rat and rabbit intervertebral disc (IVD). In vitro, four genes (Hprt1, CycA, GAPDH, and 18S rRNA) in rat IVD tissue and five genes (CycA, Hprt1, Actb, Pgk1, and Ywhaz) in rabbit IVD tissue were determined as most stable for up to 14 days in culture. Pair-wise variation analysis indicated that combination of Hprt1 and CycA in rat and the combination of Hprt1, CycA, and Actb in rabbit may most stable reference gene candidates for IVD tissue culture. Our results indicate that Hprt1 and CycA are the most stable reference gene candidates for rat and rabbit IVD culture studies. In rabbit IVD, Actb could be an additional gene employed in conjunction with Hprt1 and CycA. Selection of optimal reference gene candidate(s) should be a pertinent exercise before employment of PCR outcome measures for biomedical research.
Physiologic Surface-Active Agents and Drug Absorption IV: Effect of Pre-Micellar Concentrations of Surfactant on Dissolution Rate

The influence of a nonionic surfactant and certain physiologic surfactants and components of gastric juice on the dissolution rate of drug powders was examined. In addition, the effects of pre-micellar concentrations of surfactant on the dissolution rate of aspirin from commercial dosage forms were determined. Low concentrations of polyoxyethylene (23) lauryl ether (POE lauryl ether), and lysolecithin markedly enhanced the dissolution rate of salicylic acid powder while pepsin and gastric mucin were without effect. Sodium glycocholate was found to increase considerably the dissolution rate of salicylamide powder in pH 6.0 buffer. Both POE lauryl ether and lysolecithin enhanced the dissolution rate of aspirin from a tablet dosage form but were without effect on the dissolution rate of the drug from a capsule dosage form. Good correlation was observed between the surface tensions of the POE lauryl ether solutions and the dissolution rates of aspirin from the tablet dosage form in these media. The relevance of these data to the design of in vitro dissolution tests is discussed.
Biochemical and histopathological changes in the brains of mice inoculated with scrapie by the intraperitoneal route.

Abstract Groups of mice were inoculated by the intraperitoneal route with suspensions of scrapie or normal brain, respectively. A study was made throughout the incubation period of a number of abnormalities which are known to occur preclinically in mice inoculated by the intracerebral route. The titre of scrapie agent in brain increased progressively starting at 4 weeks after inoculation and clinical signs appeared at 19 weeks. There was no evidence that an increased number of glial cells which synthesise DNA occurred in the brains of mice inoculated intraperitoneally, a finding in marked contrast to previous results with intracerebrally-inoculated mice. The other abnormalities studied, namely, vacuolation, astrocyte hypertrophy, increased incorporation of [3H] thymidine into whole brain DNA and increased activities of acid deoxyribo-nuclease, β-glucuronidase and N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase, all showed progressive changes in scrapie brain starting 12 to 14 weeks after inoculation. Quantitatvely, the changes seen after intraperitoneal inoculation were the same as those found previously after intracerebral inoculation but there were some definite differences in the distribution of lesions. A comparison of the present results with previously published data suggests that once the agent starts to accumulate in brain the development of lesions and of the clinical disease follows a similar pattern, irrespective of the route of inoculation. The increased length of the incubation period after intraperitoneal inoculation corresponds with the delay before the agent reaches the brain.
Why Gender Roles Are Blurring and Why It Matters

Rising Tide: Gender Equality and Cultural Change around the World. By Ronald Inglehart, Pippa Norris. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2003. 240 pp., $60.00 cloth (ISBN: 0-512-82203-3), $21.00 paper (ISBN: 0-512-52950-6). The central premise of Ronald Inglehart and Pippa Norris's Rising Tide: Gender Equality and Cultural Change around the World is that culture matters. More specifically, if we want to understand how and why particular societies have reached particular levels of gender equality (which, although never precisely defined, is presumably comprised of such things as equal pay for equal work, reproductive rights, equal educational and employment opportunities, and women's participation in positions of authority), we cannot just focus on statutory reform or the formal recognition of women's rights. Instead, Inglehart and Norris argue, it is critical to include cultural factors in any explanation: “the social norms, beliefs, and values existing in [a] society” that concern gender roles (p. 8). Change toward a “culture of gender equality” is a necessary (although not a sufficient) condition for the sorts of economic, social, and policy changes that create more egalitarian societies (p. 8). Inglehart and Norris do not test this claim directly, but they do test five propositions that presumably should be true if these kinds of cultural shifts are “coherent and predictable” (p. 32). Specifically, postmodern values of gender equality should be more widespread in more affluent societies; within any one society, egalitarian attitudes should be more common among the wealthier and better educated; women should be more egalitarian than men; younger generations should favor equality more than older ones in societies that have experienced dramatic economic growth; and Islamic societies should …
A note on the randomized response technique

It is pointed out that the usual estimators for the parameters of a randomized response model are not, contrary to popular belief, maximum likelihood estimators.
How often are two permutations comparable

Two permutations of [n] are comparable in the Bruhat order if one is closer, in a natural way, to the identity permutation, 12 ... n, than the other. We show that the number of comparable pairs is of order (n!) 2 /n 2 at most, and (n!) 2 (0.708)" at least. For the related weak order, the corresponding bounds are (n!) 2 (0.362)" and (n!) 2 Π n i=1 (H (i) /i), where H (i):= Σ i j=1 1/j. In light of numerical experiments, we conjecture that for each order the upper bound is qualitatively close to the actual number of comparable pairs.
Adapting to Change: A Survey of Evolving Job Descriptions in Medical Librarianship

In the past decade, the role of health sciences librarians has been redefined by technology and emerging trends. Traditional medical librarian positions are becoming less common as adaptations are made to fit rapidly changing library environments. As new roles for librarians are defined, position descriptions are being created or revised so that they are in line with current duties. Via a survey, the authors collected current position descriptions from health sciences libraries and compiled them into a Medical Library Association DocKit. This article describes the process and results of the project. Issues and problems encountered during the project are also discussed.
Vowel Duration in Mothers' Speech to Young Children

The purpose of this investigation was to determine whether content words are selectively highlighted through increased vowel duration in mothers' speech to young children. Fifteen mother-child dyad...
Risk Factors for Candidemia in Pediatric Intensive Care Unit Patients

To determine the risk factors for developing candida infections in pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). The present study was conducted as a case–control study and included the population of patients who were admitted to PICU during the period of March 2010–March 2011. During the study period, a total of 57 patients in PICU had candidemia, 4 cases were excluded due to their PICU stay less than 48 h and one due to the insufficient data. The most commonly isolated Candida species was C. albicans, followed by C. parapsilosis. The median duration of hospitalization in PICU was higher (22.0 d) in candidemia patients compared to control group (13.5 d) (p = 0.037). The patients with candidemia had higher rates of presence of mechanical ventilation, presence of central venous catheter, and being under total parenteral nutrition; compared to the control group. The longer PICU durations, mechanical ventilation, central venous catheter, total parenteral nutrition were the associated factors. Although trials for predicitive models or scoring systems for development of candidemia have been performed; more future studies were required for practical usage in clinics settings in order to prevent candidemia.
Definition of Topotaxy

THE term ‘topotaxy’ was defined by Lotgering and Gorter1 to include “all chemical solid state reactions that lead to a material with crystal orientations which are correlated with crystal orientations in the initial product”. Mackay2 described several reactions occurring in the hydrated iron oxides as topotactical and extended the definition to include structural transformations. He stated the necessary conditions for topotaxy to be: (1) a three-dimensional accord between the reactant and product; (2) the majority of atomic positions remaining fixed. In a review of topotaxy, Bernal3 defined the term so as to include transformations in which all or some of the axes of symmetry of the original crystal are retained in the product. Taylor et al.4 recognized the problem of the definition of topotaxy and took a position intermediate between that of Lotgering and Mackay. They refer to topotaxy as the conversion of a single crystal into one or more products which have a definite crystallographic orientation with respect to the original crystal, with the added requirements that the conversion occur throughout the entire crystal and that there be three-dimensional accord between the initial and final structures.