cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Intermolecular Interactions between Surfactants and Cationic Dyes and Effect on Antimicrobial Properties

Cationic molecules can interact with anionic and other cationic species in solutions. Electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions between two series of cationic antimicrobial dyes and several surfactants were studied using a UV−vis spectrophotometer. The dye containing more cationic charges with a short alkyl chain showed stronger binding power with surfactants than the one with less positive charge, while the ones with longer chains exhibited lower binding energy. These dyes could form complex structures with anionic surfactant species in solutions at very low concentrations of the surfactant (far below critical-micelle-forming concentrations of the surfactants), which was revealed from the changes in absorbance and wavelength of the maximum absorbance (λmax) of photospectrometry. However, when the concentrations of surfactants were above their critical micelle concentrations, the dyes could redissolve and dissociate into molecular or ionic forms. Such results were confirmed by conductivity and antimicrob...
Spin-photovoltaic effect in quantum wires due to intersubband transitions

We consider the current induced in a quantum wire by external electromagnetic radiation. The photocurrent is caused by the interplay of spin-orbit interaction (Rashba and Dresselhaus terms) and an external in-plane magnetic field. We calculate this current using a Wigner functions approach, taking into account radiation-induced transitions between transverse subbands. The magnitude and the direction of the current depend on the Dresselhaus and Rashba constants, strength of magnetic field, radiation frequency, and intensity. The current can be controlled by changing some of these parameters.
The D0 silicon tracker

Abstract A 800 000 channel Silicon Tracker is being constructed as a part of the D0 Upgrade at Fermilab. We describe the design of the tracking system and detectors. Results are presented for production tests of radiation hard SVXIIE chips and mechanical support structures. Techniques for ladder and disk production and testing are also presented.
MICROBIAL LOAD OF BEVERAGE GLASSES

Beverage glasses were randomly sampled during the winter (Study I) to determine cleanliness. During the spring, random sampling of beer glasses from one establishment of Study I and two additional outlets was conducted (Study II). Contamination level of soft drink and wine glasses was not different (P > 0.05). Microbial load of beer glasses was higher than for other glasses. Beer glasses from one establishment had more (P < 0.05) contamination than those from the other units. Current operational and sanitary practices conducted at those establishments studied (except Establishment D) are effective enough to provide acceptable cleanliness.
Secreted Chick Semaphorins Bind Recombinant Neuropilin with Similar Affinities but Bind Different Subsets of Neurons In Situ

Collapsin-1, a member of the semaphorin family, activates receptors on specific growth cones, thereby inhibiting their motility. Neuropilin, a previously cloned transmembrane protein, has recently been identified as a candidate receptor for collapsin-1. We have completed the cloning of chick collapsin-3 and -5 and show that collapsin-1, -2, -3, and -5 bind to overlapping but distinct axon tracts. We infer that in situ, there are distinct receptors with different affinities for collapsin-1, -2, -3, and -5. In contrast, these four collapsins all bind recombinant neuropilin with similar affinities. Strong binding to neuropilin is mediated by the carboxy third of the collapsins, while the semaphorin domain confers their unique binding patterns in situ. We propose that neuropilin is a common component of a semaphorin receptor complex, and that additional differentially expressed receptor components interact with the semaphorin domains to confer binding specificity.
Solid-state β-cyclodextrin complexes containing indomethacin, ammonia and water. I. Formation studies

In a previous report five unique complexes were prepared and characterized containing β-cyclodextrin, indomethacin, ammonia and water. In this study the solubility, dissolution behavior, complex-binding constant, crystallinity and enthalpy were assessed. The results show indomethacin solubility was improved by complex formation with β-cyclodextrin. There was little difference among the various complex solubilities. Indomethacin dissolution was improved by complex formation with the exception of one complex. Indomethacin dissolution profiles were found to differ and were unrelated to either the complexed indomethacin content or binding constant. Indomethacin dissolution profiles were found to be related to the complex crystallinity and enthalpy. The complex-binding constants were found to support a theory reported previously that β-cyclodextrin ring cavity solvation was the predominant factor responsible for complex formation.
Dynamical structures on pencils, poles, and fundamental subspaces☆

Abstract This paper provides a bridge between singular-system representations, module theory, and the geometric theory of subspaces. By means of a theorem, the “little” pole space associated with a singular system is shown to be isomorphic to the global system pole space, a module-theoretic concept incorporating both finite- and infinite- system-pole information. These results hold true for any regular matrix pencil (zE − A) and may be interpreted as special cases in terms of causal and anticausal systems. Moreover, fundamental subspaces associated with matrix pencils are isomorphic to k[z]- and O ∞-modules representing finite and infinite system poles. As a result, dynamical structures on these limit spaces may be determined.
Continuous prediction of manufacturing performance throughout the production lifecycle

We describe methods for continual prediction of manufactured product quality prior to final testing. In our most expansive modeling approach, an estimated final characteristic of a product is updated after each manufacturing operation. Our initial application is for the manufacture of microprocessors, and we predict final microprocessor speed. Using these predictions, early corrective manufacturing actions may be taken to increase the speed of expected slow wafers (a collection of microprocessors) or reduce the speed of fast wafers. Such predictions may also be used to initiate corrective supply chain management actions. Developing statistical learning models for this task has many complicating factors: (a) a temporally unstable population (b) missing data that is a result of sparsely sampled measurements and (c) relatively few available measurements prior to corrective action opportunities. In a real manufacturing pilot application, our automated models selected 125 fast wafers in real-time. As predicted, those wafers were significantly faster than average. During manufacture, downstream corrective processing restored 25 nominally unacceptable wafers to normal operation.
Negative electron affinity at the Cs/AlN(0001) surface

The effects of cesium (Cs) adsorption on band bending and electron affinity at the AlN(0001)-1×1 surface are investigated via ultraviolet and x-ray photoemission spectroscopy. The movement of the Fermi level indicates an initial interaction between Cs and empty surface states, followed by an increase in band bending presumably linked to metallization. The electron affinity, χ, of the clean AlN surface is positive and equal to 1.9±0.3 eV. The Cs-surface dipole layer decreases χ by 2.6±0.3 eV, leading to evidence of true negative electron affinity at the surface of this important material.
Functional neuroimaging of perfusion change and blood oxygenation change with MRI

Completely non-invasive, real time (at a frame resolution of a second or less) tomographic movies of dynamic human visual system and motor system activity are demonstrated. These images are based on single shot functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques sensitive to changes in either cerebral blood flow (CBF) or blood oxygenation. Given the close correspondence in both space and time between cerebral hemodynamic changes and neuronal activation, these data provide the highest spatial and temporal resolution tomographic maps of human brain activity reported to date.
Methylation of dietary flavones greatly improves their hepatic metabolic stability and intestinal absorption.

Dietary flavonoids and other polyphenols have many biological properties that could make them useful as chemopreventive agents. However, very poor oral bioavailability makes them largely ineffective in vivo. The low bioavailability is mainly due to highly efficient glucuronic acid and sulfate conjugation of these mono- or polyhydroxylated agents in the intestinal/hepatic barrier. This review describes how the methyl capping of all free hydroxyl groups of flavones results in dramatically increased metabolic stability, as the metabolism is shifted to less efficient CYP-mediated oxidation. This was demonstrated best by using the human liver S9 fraction with an appropriate selection of cofactors. In addition, the intestinal transport of flavones was much improved through methylation, as shown in Caco-2 cell Transwell experiments. In vivo in the rat, oral administration of one methylated flavone resulted in high bioavailability and tissue distribution with no detectable levels of its unmethylated analogue. In ...
Are all genetic variants in DNase I sensitivity regions functional

A detailed mechanistic understanding of the direct functional consequences of DNA variation on gene regulatory mechanism is critical for a complete understanding of complex trait genetics and evolution. Here, we present a novel approach that integrates sequence information and DNase I footprinting data to predict the impact of a sequence change on transcription factor binding. Applying this approach to 653 DNase-seq samples, we identified 3,831,862 regulatory variants predicted to affect active regulatory elements for a panel of 1,372 transcription factor motifs. Using QuASAR, we validated the non-coding variants predicted to be functional by examining allele-specific binding (ASB). Combining the predictive model and the ASB signal, we identified 3,217 binding variants within footprints that are significantly imbalanced (20% FDR). Even though most variants in DNase I hypersensitive regions may not be functional, we estimate that 56% of our annotated functional variants show actual evidence of ASB. To assess the effect these variants may have on complex phenotypes, we examined their association with complex traits using GWAS and observed that ASB-SNPs are enriched 1.22-fold for complex traits variants. Furthermore, we show that integrating footprint annotations into GWAS meta-study results improves identification of likely causal SNPs and provides a putative mechanism by which the phenotype is affected.
MicroRNAs Add an Additional Layer to the Complexity of Cell Signaling

MicroRNAs (miRNAs), key posttranscriptional regulators of many biological processes, have been implicated in many diseases, including cancer. In a recent paper, Avraham and colleagues take a systems biology approach to determine whether and how miRNAs are involved in the regulation of oncogenic signaling networks downstream of epidermal growth factor (EGF). The authors showed that EGF stimulation orchestrated the transcription of both miRNAs and transcription factors. An early decrease in the abundance of a subset of miRNAs allowed for the induction of messenger RNAs of immediate early genes. Expression of this group of miRNAs was also decreased in tumors that showed deregulated signaling through the EGF receptor (EGFR) or the related receptor HER2. Their biological properties of redundancy, multiplicity, and rapid responsiveness make these small noncoding RNAs important regulators of cell signaling.
Effects of a Skiing Experience on Adolescents With Limb Deficiencies: An Occupational Adaptation Perspective

Objective Effects of a 6-day snow skiing trip on 14 adolescents with limb deficiencies were explored. The purpose was to determine whether components of mastery and self-esteem could be identified. Method Participant observation data collection methods included videotape, interviews, daily progress notes by ski instructors, and a 1-month posttrip questionnaire. Data were analyzed for evidence of efficiency, effectiveness, and satisfaction to self and others (properties of relative mastery described in occupational adaptation.) Skier reports of positive effects were analyzed for indications of an impact on self-esteem. Three occupational therapists who have extensive experience working with adolescents also reviewed videotapes and written information. Results The therapists acknowledged the presence of skill mastery as an important component of skiers' positive self-evaluation. They also commented that evidence of preexisting self-esteem and social aspects of the trip were as likely to produce positive effects as mastery of skiing. Conclusion Research method considerations (use of participant observation for hypothesis testing) preclude definitive interpretation of a link between skill mastery and self-esteem. Short-term positive effects of the skiing experience reported by questionnaire were present 1 month after the trip. Long-term effects should be studied.
Unsafe abortion: the silent scourge

An estimated 19 million unsafe abortions occur worldwide each year, resulting in the deaths of about 70,000 women. Legalization of abortion is a necessary but insufficient step toward improving women's health. Without skilled providers, adequate facilities and easy access, the promise of safe, legal abortion will remain unfulfilled, as in India and Zambia. Both suction curettage and pharmacological abortion are safe methods in early pregnancy; sharp curettage is inferior and should be abandoned. For later abortions, either dilation and evacuation or labour induction are appropriate. Hysterotomy should not be used. Timely and appropriate management of complications can reduce morbidity and prevent mortality. Treatment delays are dangerous, regardless of their origin. Misoprostol may reduce the risks of unsafe abortion by providing a safer alternative to traditional clandestine abortion methods. While the debate over abortion will continue, the public health record is settled: safe, legal, accessible abortion improves health.
Tuberculum Sellae Meningiomas: Evolving Surgical Strategies

Tuberculum sella meningiomas represent a unique set of surgical challenges due to their three-dimensional relationship with the optic apparatus, critical vasculature, and the pituitary stalk. These challenges are encountered with the context of a surgical goal that provides long-term tumor control, preservation or improvement of visual function and minimal morbidity. Advancements in skull base surgery with improvements in transcranial (TCR) approaches and endoscopic endonasal approaches have added to the surgical strategies available. We review the modern literature and compare techniques and their outcomes in an effort to determine the relative merits and indications of TCR and endoscopic endonasal approaches in the management of this set of tumors.
Dielectric waveguide-based leaky-wave antenna at 212 GHz

The design and fabrication of a leaky-wave antenna at 212 GHz with a dielectric waveguide as the guiding structure is described and some measured results are presented. At this frequency, previously reported approaches for fabricating such an antenna present certain difficulties, which have been overcome using some innovations. This antenna is expected to be useful for radiometry and, consequently should have small beamwidth, high efficiency, and large beam scanning with frequency. It is shown how these can be achieved.
Active participation of endothelial cells in inflammation

Leukocyte migration from the blood into tissues is vital for immune surveillance and inflammation. During this diapedesis of leukocytes, the leukocytes bind to endothelial cell adhesion molecules and then migrate across the vascular endothelium. Endothelial cell adhesion molecules and their counter-receptors on leukocytes generate intracellular signals. This review focuses on the active function of endothelial cells during leukocyte-endothelial cell interactions. We include a discussion of the "outside-in" signals in endothelial cells, which are stimulated by antibody cross-linking or leukocyte binding to platelet-endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1, intercellular adhesion molecule-1, and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1. Some of these signals in endothelial cells have been demonstrated to actively participate in leukocyte migration. We suggest that some of the adhesion molecule signals, which have not been assigned a function, are consistent with signals that stimulate retraction of lateral junctions, stimulate endothelial cell basal surface adhesion, or induce gene expression.
Medea selfish genetic elements as tools for altering traits of wild populations: A theoretical analysis

Insect-borne diseases kill millions of people annually. One strategy for controlling transmission of insect-borne disease involves replacing the native insect population with transgenic animals unable to transmit disease. Population replacement requires a drive mechanism to ensure the rapid spread of linked transgenes conferring disease refractoriness. Medea selfish genetic elements have the feature that when present in a female, only offspring that inherit the element survive, a behavior that can lead to spread. Here we use modeling to identify conditions under which Medea elements spread. We derive equations describing the allele frequencies required for spread of Medea elements with a fitness cost, and the equilibrium allele frequencies attained. We validate our model against a synthetic Medea element created in Drosophila and find that the model fits the data without parameter fitting. We show that when Medea spreads, it drives the non-Medea genotype out of the population, and we provide estimates of the number of generations required to achieve this goal. We also characterize two contexts in which Medea elements with fitness costs drive the non-Medea allele from the population: an autosomal element in which zygotic rescue is incomplete and an X-linked element in species in which X/Y individuals are male. Finally, we explore costs and benefits associated with the introduction of multiple Medea elements. Our results suggest that Medea elements can drive population replacement under a wide range of conditions, potentially reducing disease burden.
Adaptive modulation of color salience contingent upon global form coding and task relevance

Extensive research on local color aftereffects has revealed perceptual consequences of opponent color coding in the retina and the LGN, and of orientation-and/or spatial-frequency-contingent color coding in early cortical visual areas (e.g., V1 and V2). Here, we report a color aftereffect that depends crucially on global-form-contingent color processing. Brief viewing of colored items (passively viewed, ignored, or attended) reduced the salience of the previewed color in a subsequent task of color-based visual search. This color-salience aftereffect was relatively insensitive to variations (between color preview and search) in local image features, but was substantially affected by changes in global configuration (e.g. the presence or absence of perceptual unitization); the global-form dependence of the aftereffect was also modulated by task demands. The overall results suggest that (1) color salience is adaptively modulated (from fixation to fixation), drawing attention to a new color in visual-search contexts, and (2) these modulations seem to be mediated by global-form-and-color-selective neural processing in mid to late stages of the ventral visual pathway (e.g., V4 and IT), in combination with task-dependent feedback from higher cortical areas (e.g., prefrontal cortex).
Stokes flow past compound multiphase drops: the case of completely engulfed drops/bubbles

In this paper the translatory motion of a compound drop is examined in detail for low-Reynolds-number flow. The compound drop, consisting of a liquid drop or a gas bubble completely coated by another liquid, moves in a third immiscible fluid. An exact solution for the flow field is found in the limit of small capillary numbers by approximating the two interfaces to be spherical. The solution is found for the general case of eccentric configuration with motion of the inner sphere relative to the outer together with the motion of the system in the continuous phase. The results show that the viscous forces tend to move the inner-fluid sphere towards the front stagnation point of the compound drop. For equilibrium of the inner sphere with respect to the outer there must, therefore, be a body force towards the front. This can only be achieved with the necessary condition that there be a buoyant force on the inner sphere, opposite to that of the compound drop in the continuous phase. For a given set of fluids, two or four equilibrium configurations may be found. Of these only one or two, respectively, are stable. The others are unstable. For the special case of concentric configuration, the equilibrium is always metastable.
Biomechanical performance of tapercut needles for oral surgery

A new tapercut needle has been designed and developed for closure of the oral mucous membrane in oral surgery. It is a sharp needle with short cutting edges that easily penetrates through a small needle puncture hole. It is manufactured from a unique stainless steel alloy that resists bending and fracture. Biomechanical performance tests and clinical experience confirm its superiority over the standard reverse cutting edge needle for use in oral surgery.
Actor Positioning in Wireless Sensor and Actor Networks Using Matching Theory

In most of the wireless sensor and actor network (WSAN)applications, the locations for the actors are determined autonomously by the collaboration of actors and/or sensors in order to eliminate human intervention as much as possible. Particularly, sensors can collaborate in a distributed manner and elect cluster-heads (CHs) among them based on certain criteria. The actors can then move to such CH locations by talking to nearby sensors/actors. Such movement, however, should be done wisely in order to minimize the movement distance of actors so that their lifetimes can be improved. Nevertheless, this may not be possible since not all the actor and CH locations will be known by each actor. In addition, the actors may not be reachable to each other and thus conflicts in assignments can easily occur. In this paper, we propose an actor-CH location matching algorithm which will assign the actors to appropriate CH locations in a distributed manner with minimized travel distance. We adapt the Gale-Shapley (G-S) stable matching algorithm from Matching Theory in order to prevent conflicts in matching and minimize the travel distance of actors. In this matching algorithm, actors are regarded as men and CHs are regarded as women. For distributed execution of the algorithm, subnetworks of actors and CHs are determined. Each subnetwork performs its own matching based on G-S algorithm.If there are unmatched actors after this process, a network wide search is used to detect such nodes and to perform the matching. We evaluated the performance of our approach through simulation and have shown that our approach can produce results very close to the brute force approach with minimal messaging overhead.
Analyzing the tradeoffs among ecological and fishing effects on an example fish community: A multispecies (fisheries) production model

Species interactions such as predation or competition can have notable implications for fish population dynamics. Stock status and associated biological reference points can be misrepresented if these interactions are not considered. Here we present a multispecies, biomass production model (MS-PROD) developed by incorporating modifications to the Schaefer production model. The modifications explicitly emphasize a functional group approach, highlighting the effects of species interactions that include competition between species within a group, competition between groups, and predation. The mathematical formulation also includes constraints on carrying capacity for both the entire system and for individual groups. We applied the model as initialized to the Northeast U.S. Large Marine Ecosystem finfish community. We then executed simulations designed to explore the behavior of the model with respect to fishery exploitation and ecological interactions. Collectively, the results demonstrated the utility, and the need, for incorporating ecological effects into fisheries models.
Pure absorption phase gradient-enhanced HMQC-TOCSY with direct response editing

Pulsed field gradients (PFG) have the potential to revolutionize further potent, inverse-detected structural NMR techniques by eliminating artifacts and thermal noise in data taken with very small numbers of transients. A phase-sensitive GE (gradient-enhanced)-HMQC-TOCSY experiment is reported with features which allow the discrimination (or elimination) of direct correlations relative to the relayed TOCSY responses. Sensitivity losses which arise from molecular diffusion during the course of a pulse sequence are potentially serious when field gradients are employed for solutions containing small molecules. By carefully combining phase cycling with relatively weak pulsed field gradients, it is possible both to maintain good sensitivity and to suppress completely t1 noise in GE-HMQC-TOCSY data acquired with only two transients per t1, increment.
Momentum Loses Its Momentum: Implications for Market Efficiency

We evaluate the robustness of momentum returns in the US stock market over the period 1965 to 2010. We find that momentum profits have become insignificant since the late 1990s partially driven by pronounced increase in the volatility of momentum profits in the last 12 years. Past returns no longer explain the cross-sectional variation in stock returns, not even following up markets. The patterns in the post holding period returns of momentum portfolios and risk adjusted identification period buy and hold returns of stocks in momentum supports improvement in market efficiency as a possible explanation for the declining momentum profits.
Repatriating the Bust of Nefertiti: A Critical Perspective on Cultural Ownership

Who owns antiquities? This question has plagued the global community in recent times and has opened dialogues between former colonial Western countries and their past colonized nations whose property is exhibited. This essay examines the conflicting perspectives of ownership in the repatriation of the Bust of Nefertiti between Berlin, Germany and Egypt. By analyzing the effects of European occupation in Egypt and the Western dominance in foreign cultures during the Age of Imperialism, a moral argument arises questioning the legality of the Bust’s removal. This article will review the historical significance of the Bust of Nefertiti in terms of its original intent as well as its removal to Germany and transformation into a global artwork and how this has affected her proposed return to Egyptian ownership.
X-ray tube thermal management

This paper presents a brief overview of the various stationary anode X-ray tube designs and the thermal management challenges of the anode target that limit the intensity of the generated X-ray beams. Several options to further increase X-ray beam intensity are discussed.
A Neurodevelopmental Perspective on the Role of Memory Systems in Children’s Math Learning

In this chapter we review the emerging findings on the role of the medial temporal lobe declarative memory system in children’s mathematics learning. The medial temporal lobe memory system facilitates the establishment of long-term memory and knowledge through its role in rapid learning and integration of new information into existing knowledge schemas. Evidence is presented for how the hippocampus plays a critical, but time-limited, role in the early phase of mathematical knowledge acquisition, and how this hippocampal dependence is reduced following reconfiguration of neocortical connections and stabilization of problem representations over time. We discuss the implications of recent research for a more comprehensive view of the neural basis of mathematical learning and knowledge acquisition in both children and adults. Critically, it cannot be assumed that brain systems engaged by children during critical stages of development are similar to those in adults with well-developed schema and domain knowledge.
Modeling and simulation as a service (MSaaS) for education: learning STEM concepts through simulation use and building

Despite their proven advantages in science and engineering and their broad application in daily activities such as travel planning and financial planning, simulations are not widely utilized in education, particularly at the K-12 levels. One of the main reasons is that simulation use and simulation building is reserved for expert's use and remains out of the reach to a larger audience. One potential solution is Modeling and Simulation as a Service (MSaaS) for education in the form of a cloud-based simulation learning environments (CSLEs). CSLEs can provide worldwide access to many people for using and building simulations as well as exposing them to STEM concepts like data capture and probability. This paper presents a roadmap for CSLEs. The roadmap, six requirements for building CSLEs, draws on insights from 1) testing a cloud-based simulation environment for education purposes with students ranging from middle school to graduate school and 2) capturing longitudinal data of simulation-building activities. Insights from the students' testing of the environment suggest that using drawings as conceptual models facilitates the transition from a real-life system to abstraction into implementation of the model. Longitudinal data capture provides the potential for identifying simulation-building habits across levels of expertise and the development of metrics and models for simulation development.
Identification of a Basolateral Membrane Potassium Channel from Teleost Intestinal Epithelial Cells

Using patch-clamp techniques, a Ca 2+ -dependent, voltage-gated K + channel [K(Ca) channel] was isolated from the basolateral membrane of NaCl-absorbing intestinal epithelial cells of the goby Gillichthys mirabilis . This K(Ca) channel had a high conductance (approximately 150 pS) in the physiological range of membrane potential. Conclusive identification as a K + channel is supported by dependence of the reversal potential for single-channel current on the K + concentration gradient and the ability of Ba 2+ , Cs + and other pharmacological agents to block the channel. The channel was highly selective for K + over Na + ( P Na / P K =0.04). Channel activity, expressed as open probability ( P o ), was dependent on membrane potential with depolarization increasing P o over the physiological range in the presence of Ca 2+ . Channel activity was also dependent on cytoplasmic-side Ca 2+ . P o was reduced to near-zero levels following EGTA chelation of Ca 2+ in the solution bathing the cytoplasmic face of excised membrane patches; channel activity was most sensitive to changes in Ca 2+ concentration between 10nmoll −1 and 10μmoll −1 . This K(Ca) channel may be one of several avenues for K + exit across the basolateral cell membrane and, as such, may play roles in both transepithelial salt transport and maintenance of intracellular ionic composition.
Comparison of Causes of Death After Heart Transplantation in Patients With Left Ventricular Ejection Fractions ≤35% Versus >35%

Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is a common cause of death in the general population, occurring in 300,000 to 350,000 people in the United States alone. Currently, there are no data supporting implantable cardioverter-defibrillator therapy in patients who underwent orthotopic heart transplant (OHT) with low left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). In this retrospective study, we included all patients who underwent primary OHT at our institution from 2007 to 2013. We compared the cause of death in patients who underwent OHT and evaluated the correlation of the cause of death and the patients' LVEF. Our objectives were to determine whether patients who underwent OHT with LVEF 6 months after OHT. Surviving patients had higher LVEF compared with deceased patients (64 ± 7% and 50 ± 24%, respectively, p ≤0.001). In all, 10 (25%) of the deceased patients died suddenly, 9 (23%) from sepsis, and 8 (20%) from malignancy. Of the 11 deceased patients with LVEF ≤35%, 2 patients (18%) died suddenly compared with 9 SCDs among the 29 deceased patients (31%) with LVEF >35% (p = 0.54). In conclusion, patients who underwent OHT who died were more likely to have LVEF
Manufacturing Authenticity: The Feminine Ideal in Tony Bui's Three Seasons

Looking at Tony Bui's feature film, Three Seasons, I argue there is a desire to re-imagine and apprehend pre-capitalist Viet Nam that is endemic not only for Western tourists in the twentieth century, but for Vietnamese diasporic subjects as well - an experience often reconstituted through the camera apparatus for overseas audiences.
Inactivation of the Polymerase but not the DNA Binding Function of ADPRT by Destabilization of one of its Zn2+ Coordination Centers by 6-Nitroso-1,2-Benzopyrone

In the course of studies on the metabolism of inhibitors of poly (ADP- ribose) transferase (ADPRT), we observed that the inhibitor 6-amino-1,2-benzopyrone (6-ABP) (1) when metabolized by rat liver microsomal preparations is oxidized to the corresponding 6-nitroso derivative (6-NOBP) as the main metabolite (2). Since ADPRT is located in the nuclear matrix (3,4) and most of the cytochrome P450 resides in the endoplasmic reticulum which is contiguous with the nuclear membrane (5), generation of 6-NOBP near ADPRT is likely. This suggested that the exact cellular significance of this oxidation path be investigated with respect to ADPRT.
ADF/cofilin mediates actin cytoskeletal alterations in LLC-PK cells during ATP depletion.

Ischemic injury induces actin cytoskeleton disruption and aggregation, but mechanisms affecting these changes remain unclear. To determine the role of actin-depolymerizing factor (ADF)/ cofilin par...
Biological matching of chemical reactivity: pairing indole nucleophilicity with electrophilic isoprenoids.

The indole side chain of tryptophan has latent nucleophilic reactivity at both N1 and all six (nonbridgehead) carbons, which is not generally manifested in post-translational reactions of proteins. On the other hand, all seven positions can be prenylated by the primary metabolite Δ2-isopentenyl diphosphate by dimethyallyl transferase (DMATs) family members as initial steps in biosynthetic pathways to bioactive fungal alkaloids including ergots and tremorgens. These are formulated as regioselective capture of isopentenyl allylic cationic transition states by the indole side chain as a nucleophile. The balance of regiospecificity and promiscuity among these indole prenyltransferases continues to raise questions about possible Cope and azaCope rearrangements of nascent products. In addition to these two electron reaction manifolds, there is evidence for one electron reaction manifolds in indole ring biosynthetic functionalization.
High Frequency Asymptotics for the Limit Order Book

We study the one-sided limit order book corresponding to limit sell orders and model it as a measure-valued process. Limit orders arrive to the book according to a Poisson process and are placed on the book according to a distribution which varies depending on the current best price. Market orders to buy periodically arrive to the book according to a second, independent Poisson process and remove from the book the order corresponding to the current best price. We consider the above described limit order book in a high frequency regime in which the rate of incoming limit and market orders is large and traders place their limit sell orders close to the current best price. Our first set of results provide weak limits for the unscaled price process and the properly scaled measure-valued limit order book process in the high frequency regime. In particular, we characterize the limiting measure-valued limit order book process as the solution to a measure-valued stochastic differential equation. We then provide an analysis of both the transient and long-run behavior of the limiting limit order book process.
Melphalan therapy for plasma cell myeloma.

Of 82 patients with plasma cell myeloma treated with melphalan, 40 (49 per cent) were improved in clinical status and in a direct manifestation of disease. Myeloma protein level provided an important parameter for periodic assessment of disease activity. After effective chemotherapy, myeloma globulins decreased more rapidly and to a greater degree in urine than in serum. Anemia and hypoalbuminemia were improved in most responding patients, thus supporting the usefulness of these parameters in confirming clinical response. Median survival time for all patients was 42 months from symptoms, 34 months from diagnosis, and 23 months from melphalan. The life-span of responding patients was prolonged more than 2 years, a period accounted for by the duration of objective response. Future progress in treatment for plasma cell myeloma will depend more on advances in chemotherapy than upon improvements in supportive care.
Density Functional Theory Insights into the Role of the Methionine–Tyrosine–Tryptophan Adduct Radical in the KatG Catalase Reaction: O2 Release from the Oxyheme Intermediate

Density functional theory was employed for a comprehensive study that provided electronic and structural insights into the KatG catalase reaction that involves oxyheme. The catalytic role of a unique amino acid cofactor Met-Tyr-Trp (MYW) in its radical form found in KatG was thereby elucidated. It was established that the MYW-radical is flexible such that a “hinge-like opening” rotation of the Trp-107 ring with respect to the Tyr-229 ring along their covalent C–C bond is an inherent feature of its catalytic properties. Also, an H-bond between the Tyr-229 and the mobile side chain of Arg-418 further enables the catalytic events. The opening process breaks an H-bond between the N–H of Trp-107 and the inner oxygen of the Fe–O2 (oxyheme) complex present in the closed conformation of the MYW-radical. This motion lowers the spin-crossing energy barrier between the ground state and the catalytically active high-spin states and enables electron transfer from the oxyheme group to the MYW-radical. The release of mo...
Labor Unions and Minority Group Members’ Voter Turnout†

Object This study examines the effects of labor union membership and labor unions’ mobilization efforts on minority group members’ participation in voting. Methods It uses a hierarchical linear model with data from the Current Population Survey (2000, 2004, and 2008) and state-level information. Results The analysis shows that the effect of union membership on voter turnout varies somewhat by racial and ethnic group. Also, it finds that labor unions’ mobilization efforts, measured by union density in states, significantly increase minority group members’ participation in voting more than it does that of whites. Finally, the effect of union density in states among Latinos changes significantly by political conditions. Conclusion Labor unions play an important role in assisting minority group members, who traditionally have been considered to lack resources as compared to whites, to participate in voting by engaging in voter mobilization at the state level as well as by increasing membership among minority members.
Heritability estimates for ages at farrowing, rebreeding interval and litter traits in swine.

Data from three commercial herds of swine located in Santa Catarina State, Brazil, were used to estimate least-squares means, variance components and heritabilities for reproductive traits. A total of 663 Landrace and Large White gilts by 155 sires provided information on first farrowing and litter traits and records on 433 sows by 118 sires were available for second farrowing traits. Age at conception and at farrowing, number born, number born alive and first to second farrowing interval were analyzed. Landrace females were younger than Large White females at first and second conception and first and second farrowing (P less than .05). Gilts born during summer months were younger at first farrowing (P less than .05) than those born during winter. Sows weaning their first litter during the summer had longer gestation periods and longer weaning to conception and farrowing intervals than sows weaning their first litter during the winter (P less than .001). Least-squares means for age at first conception and farrowing and at second conception and farrowing were 273.5, 388.3, 437.0 and 551.8 d, respectively. Average weaning to conception and farrowing intervals were 22.0 and 173.7 d, respectively. Sire variance components were usually negative or equal to zero for first and second litter traits. This was also observed for dams in some cases.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
DNA/RNA Isolation and Quantitation

Many commercial kits are available for isolating DNA and RNA from various tissues. Automated nucleic acid extraction systems have also been implemented by several companies for high-throughput sample handling and quick sample preparation time. Here, we provide basic protocols for total genomic DNA, RNA, and miRNA extraction that have been used in clinical laboratories with good quality and sufficient quantity.
Educating the Business Information Technologist: Developing a Strategic IT Perspective

INTRODUCTION The ways in which computers have been applied to business have evolved over the past forty years. It is convenient, albeit over-simplified, to describe that evolution in three over-lapping stages. This three-era model is commonly used to highlight changes in computer applications (Ward, 1996). The first era was dominated by a culture of automationbasically, computerizing labor-intensive manual processes. The next era emphasized the development and management of information systems, focusing on using data collection systems to create information useful to business managers. The third erathe one in which we now work embraces IT as a valuable strategic resource and critical asset of the organization. Organizations expect IT to create new ways to compete, new products, new
Kevin C. Sontheimer on Hugo F. Sonnenschein

I had my first encounter with Hugo in the fall of 1966. Hugo had joined the Department of Economics after I had finished the microtheory and other courses I needed for the PhD, and so I never had the benefit and pleasure of having him as an instructor. In fact I had not worked for or with him in any capacity, or even had a one-on-one meeting with him before the fall of 1966.
Comparative analysis of methods to profile mRNA expression of G-protein coupled receptors

G-Protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) comprise the largest family of cell surface receptors and proteins used as targets of approved drugs. Due to their low abundance, paucity of specific and sensiti...
Self-determination theory: the role of the health care professional in promoting mindfulness and perceived competence

The purpose of the current study was to predict mindfulness and perceived competence using self-determination theory (SDT). Within SDT, we specifically examined basic needs theory via global basic needs (i.e., competence, autonomy, and relatedness) and two domain specific basic needs (i.e., exercise & health care) settings. One hundred and thirty-one college students from a Midwest urban university participated in this study. Using multiple regression analyses, we predicted 22% and 36% of the variance in mindfulness and perceived competence, respectively. Meeting basic needs in exercise settings and perceiving that autonomous exercise behaviors were supported by health care practitioners predicted variance in participants’ mindfulness and perceived competence beyond the variance accounted for from global basic needs satisfaction. More specifically, findings supported the importance of competence satisfaction in general settings and exercise settings. In addition, students who perceived that their health care practitioners supported their autonomy in pursuing exercise also exhibited more mindfulness and had stronger perceived competence for exercise compared to students who viewed their health care practitioners as less autonomy supportive. Health care professionals should be cognizant that their interactions with patients about exercise have the potential to influence patient's mindfulness and perceived competence.
Students’ Misconceptions about Semiconductors and Use of Knowledge in Simulations

Background Little research exists on students’ misconceptions about semiconductors, why they form, and what role educational resources like simulations play in misconception formation. Research on misconceptions can help enhance student learning about semiconductors. Purpose (Hypothesis) This project sought to identify students’ misconceptions about three semiconductor phenomena – diffusion, drift, and excitation – and to determine if prior knowledge, knowledge acquired from watching animated simulations, or both were related to students’ misconceptions. We hypothesized that students would hold misconceptions about those phenomena and that students’ prior knowledge and knowledge acquired from watching animated simulations would be associated with their misconceptions. Design/Method Forty-one engineering students completed an instrument that asked questions about three semiconductor phenomena after the students had observed the animated simulations. Responses were analyzed and coded using two frameworks: misconception and knowledge use. Results Misconceptions were prevalent for all three phenomena. Misconceptions were associated with use of incorrect prior knowledge, a combination of correct or incorrect prior knowledge, and the knowledge acquired from watching the animated simulations alone or in combination with correct and incorrect prior knowledge. Misconceptions indicated a lack of understanding of chemistry and physics concepts. Conclusions Findings indicate that students hold many misconceptions about semiconductor phenomena. These misconceptions were common among our participants. The knowledge acquired from the animated simulations alone or in combination with prior knowledge could reinforce or contribute to misconception formation. Our findings can guide instructors to use or create better simulations to aid student learning.
Detection of Ketenimine (CH2CNH) in SGRB2(N) Hot Cores

Ketenimine (CH2CNH) has been detected in absorption toward the starforming region Sagittarius B2(N) with the 100-m Green Bank Telescope (GBT) by means of three rotational transitions: 7(sub 16)-8(sub 08) at 41.5 GHz, 8(sub 19)-9(sub 09), at 23.2 GHz, and 9(sub 18)-10(sub 0,10) at 4.9 GHz. Ketenimine has a sparse rotational spectrum below 50 GHz. From transition line strength arguments, the spectral lines found are the ones most likely to be detected and occur in spectral regions that have little possibility of confusion with other molecular species. Partially resolved hyperfine structure is apparent in the 4.9 GHz transition which has energy levels approximately 50 K above ground state level; the absorption seen in this transition appears to be emanating from gas in close proximity to the LMH hot core that has a systemic LSR velocity of +64 kilometers per second. By comparison, the 41.5 GHz and 23.2 GHz transitions have lower energy levels of approximately 33 K and approximately 41 K, respectively; and show absorption against the two star-forming SgrB2(N) hot cores with systematic LSR velocities of +64 (the LMH) and +82 kilometers per second. These ketenimine data show that the hot core at +82 kilometers per second is cooler than the hot core at +64 kilometers per second. Ketenimine is likely formed directly from its isomer methyl cyanide (CH3CN) by tautomerization driven by shocks that pervade the star-forming region.