cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Father-youth closeness and adolescent self-rated health: The mediating role of mental health

Abstract Parent-youth relationship quality has been shown to affect adolescent mental health, yet less is known regarding the mechanisms by which father-youth relationships affect adolescent physical health. This study utilizes secondary data from the Year-15 follow-up wave of the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study (N = 3321) to attempted to unravel the interconnections between father-youth closeness and adolescent mental and self-rated health. We conducted linear regression analyses to investigate whether 15-year-old adolescent mental health, operationalized as symptoms of anxiety and depression, mediated the relations between adolescent perceived closeness with fathers and self-rated health. We found that father-youth closeness was directly related to self-rated health (b = 0.052, p
Tannin-derived micro-mesoporous carbons prepared by one-step activation with potassium oxalate and CO2

Micro-mesoporous carbons (MMCs) were successfully prepared using natural polyphenolic compounds, condensed tannins, and glyoxal, a nontoxic aldehyde, in lieu of synthetic phenolic compounds like formaldehyde and resorcinol as carbon precursors. Such MMCs were fabricated by a soft-templating strategy under mild conditions. Porosity development was achieved by varying the amount of potassium oxalate as an in-situ activator coupled with one-step CO2 activation at 700 °C. This strategy allowed for the enhancement of microporosity as well as retention of the uniform mesoporous structure of the carbons. The CO2 uptakes of 5.2 mmol/g at 0 °C and 3.6 mmol/g at 25 °C were achieved at 1 bar pressure for the tannin-derived activated MMC sample with a surface area of 1192 m2/g, a volume of fine micropores (sizes below 1 nm) of 0.33 cm3/g, and a mesopore volume of 0.49 cm3/g. This study opens new opportunities for a facile and green synthesis of MMCs from less toxic precursors with tailored porosity by synergistic effects of chemical and physical activation. The resulting MMCs exhibit the potential applicability not only as CO2 sorbents but also in other environmental applications such as adsorption of organic volatile compounds and dye molecules, which require slightly larger pores.
The effect of statement type and repetition on deception detection.

Deception is a prevalent component of human interaction. However, meta-analyses suggest that discriminating between truthful and deceptive statements is a very arduous task and accuracy on these judgments is at chance levels. To complicate matters further, individuals tell different types of lies. The current studies examined how an individual’s ability to accurately discriminate between truthful and deceptive statements is affected by the way truths and lies are conveyed. Participants judged the veracity of statements given by speakers who told truths or lies about a performed action by describing that action or denying that it had occurred. Additionally, these statements also differed with regard to how often the lie had been repeated (i.e., practiced), either once or thrice. The results were largely in line with the prevailing notion that it is difficult to successfully differentiate between truthful and deceptive statements, but also showed that performance was moderated by statement type and repetition. The results revealed that participants were more accurate in discriminating unrepeated descriptions than repeated descriptions, but this difference was not seen for denial statements. Additionally, participants were more likely to believe practiced (repeated) statements, both truthful and deceptive. The results show that repeated statements as well as shorter denials can increase the difficulty of differentiating truthful from deceptive statements. Additionally, these findings suggest that truthful statements also benefit from repetition with regard to enhancing their believability.
Calculated neutron-induced cross sections for 63,65Cu 58,60Ni, and 52Cr from 1 to 20 MeV and comparisons with experiments

Nuclear model codes were used to compute cross sections for neutron-induced reactions on /sup 63,65/Cu, /sup 58,60/Ni, and /sup 52/Cr for incident energies from 1 to 20 MeV. The input parameters for the model codes determined through analysis of experimental data in this energy region. The models used, the input data, the resulting calculations, and comparisons with measured data are discussed. 15 refs.
From Protest to Progress: The Lesson of the Opportunities Industrialization Centers

The Opportunities Industrialization Centers (OIC) program has been helping unemployed people since its inception in 1964. OIC was a response to a national need to train and motivate the urban poor. Starting with one center in Philadelphia, OIC has expanded to nearly 100 centers in cities across America, and can now claim one of the best records for providing training and jobs to the poor and the unemployed. I have been involved with OIC since its beginning, and I intend in this article to set forth some of the history, structure, and philosophical underpinnings of the program.
Modelling, Simulation, and Performance Analysis of a Microgrid with Photovoltaic Energy for Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia

This article focuses primarily on modeling, simulation, performance and financial analysis of connecting 50 MW commercial photovoltaic (PV) energy system to the microgrid distribution system in eastern region of Saudi Arabia. The PV energy system generation will enhance the dependability, load demand and the cost-effective procedure for the microgrid distribution system amid mostly classic fossil fuel-based power plant. PV array is designed assuming that it will be installed next to the Qurayyah power plant in aforementioned region to help nearby cities to become smart cities in the future. In addition, this research will help to establish a clear plan of how a change of dependability on fossil fuel power plant to renewable power plant may take place. PV power plant will reduce the amount of fossil fuel used, CO2 emission and cost of kilo-watt per hour (kWh) in the future since demand is increasing every year. Hence, the PV power plant will support the cities’ power need especially during the peak demand. The procedure of designing grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) system contains of selecting main and balance of the system (BOS) components e.g. PV module , and inverter within suitable specification as well as weather related aspects to confirm the maximum production, reliability, sustainability, and reduce the cost. Open source computer-based modeling and simulation tools, e.g. system advisory model (SAM) and Pvwatts were used to model and modify the system. System performance and financial analysis were carried out for the different system configuration for optimization. The results demonstrated that within a short period of time the system will cover the installation cost with a substantial disbursement through the lifetime of the system, even though the initial cost is significant.
“Fearfully and wonderfully made”: Black Caribbean women and the decolonization of thick Black female bodies:

Black feminists promote decolonization as a strategy to recuperate Black women’s dignity and humanity from racist colonialist ideologies. In order to fully explore Black women’s emancipation, Black...
Femtosecond laser - Assisted cataract surgery in pediatric pyramidal anterior polar cataract.

Abstract Purpose The purpose of this report is to describe the successful utilization of femtosecond laser assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) in a rare case of pyramidal anterior polar cataract in a female child. Observations The patient is a 6 years old girl that presented to the cornea clinic with a unilateral pyramidal cataract that was deemed to be visually significant, and therefore required cataract extraction and intraocular lens implantation surgery. FLACS was proposed and mother consented to proceed with the surgery. The femtosecond laser technology enabled precise completion of a central capsulotomy around the protruding pyramidal capsular lesion. Conclusions and importance:conclusion Various capsulorhexis techniques have been described and are used in pediatric cataracts including manual, can opener, vitrectorhexis, and laser, but none has become a standard. We propose the use of femtosecond laser for cataract extraction in cases of pediatric pyramidal cataracts, and hereby provide the first case report of such. The laser is a safe method for capsulorhexis construction and offers an additional advantage of intraoperative anterior segment OCT image guidance with visualization of the pyramidal lesion.
Home Exercise Interventions in Frail Older Adults.

Frailty is characterized by decreased physiological reserve and increased risk of falls, disability, hospitalization, and mortality. Frail older adults may benefit from exercise interventions targeting their multiple problems and functional deficits; however, most research focuses on center-based interventions, which may present accessibility challenges for frail older adults. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to summarize the most recently published home-based exercise interventions for frail older adults living at home. Eight manuscripts met inclusion criteria. Research interventions consisted of a variety of modes (strength, strength/nutrition, strength/flexibility/balance/endurance), duration (12 weeks to 6 months), frequency (2–7 days/week), and delivery methods (volunteer-led, videos on a tablet, manuals/brochures). Investigators examined the effects of home-based exercise on a variety of outcomes to include feasibility, frailty status, physical performance, lean body mass, skeletal muscle mass, other physiological outcomes, mental health, nutritional status, and incidence of falls in frail. This review demonstrates the feasibility and effectiveness of home-based exercise interventions to improve frailty, functional performance, nutritional status, and incidence of falls in frail older adults. However, the limited literature available provides conflicting reports regarding benefits for mental health outcomes and no evidence of a beneficial effect on skeletal muscle or lean mass. Future research is needed to shed light on the optimal components of home exercise programs most important for maximizing benefits for frail older adults, as well as the most effective delivery method.
Pre-existing heterosubtypic immunity provides a barrier to airborne transmission of influenza viruses

Human-to-human transmission of influenza viruses is a serious public health threat, yet the precise role of immunity from previous infections on the susceptibility to airborne infection is still unknown. Using the ferret model, we examined the roles of exposure duration and heterosubtypic immunity on influenza transmission. We demonstrate that a 48 hour exposure is sufficient for efficient transmission of H1N1 and H3N2 viruses. To test pre-existing immunity, a gap of 8-12 weeks between primary and secondary infections was imposed to reduce innate responses and ensure robust infection of donor animals with heterosubtypic viruses. We found that pre-existing H3N2 immunity did not significantly block transmission of the 2009 H1N1pandemic (H1N1pdm09) virus to immune animals. Surprisingly, airborne transmission of seasonal H3N2 influenza strains was abrogated in recipient animals with H1N1pdm09 pre-existing immunity. This protection from natural infection with H3N2 virus was independent of neutralizing antibodies. Pre-existing immunity with influenza B virus did not block H3N2 virus transmission, indicating that the protection was likely driven by the adaptive immune response. We demonstrate that pre-existing immunity can impact susceptibility to heterologous influenza virus strains, and implicate a novel correlate of protection that can limit the spread of respiratory pathogens through the air.
Cholesteric mesophase based 1D photonic materials from self-assembly of liquid crystalline block and random terpolymers containing chromonic molecules

We describe the influence of competing self-organizing phenomena on the formation of cholesteric mesophase in liquid crystalline brush block terpolymers (LCBBTs) and liquid crystalline random brush terpolymers (LCRBTs) containing chromonic molecules. A library of LCBBTs and LCRBTs are synthesized using ring-opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP) of norbornene side-chain functionalized monomers comprising cholesteryl mesogen (NBCh9), chromonic xanthenone (NBXan), and poly(ethylene glycol) (NBMPEG). Compression molded films of LCRBTs containing chromonic molecules display multilevel hierarchical structure in which cholesteric mesophase co-exists with π–π stacking of the chromonic mesophase along with PEG microphase segregated domains. This is unexpected as conventional LCBCPs and LCBBCs that lack chromonic molecules do not form cholesteric mesophases. The presence of π–π interactions modifies the interface at the IMDS so that both chromonic and cholesteric mesophases coexist leading to the manifestation of cholesteric phase for the first time within block architecture and is very reminiscent of previously published LCRBCs without chromonic molecules. The key to the observed hierarchical assembly in these LCBBTs containing chromonic molecules lies in the interplay of LC order, chromonic π–π stacking, PEG side chain microphase segregation, and their supramolecular cooperative motion. This unique “single component” polymer scaffold transforms our capacity to attain nanoscale hierarchies and optical properties from block architecture similar to nanoscale mesophases resulting in random architecture.
Using ELISA Adjusted Optical Density (OD) Measures to Predict Mycobacterium avium paratuberculosis Shedding Status of Individual Dairy Cattle

Fecal culture remains the standard for diagnosing Mycobacterium avium paratuberculosis (MAP) in individual cattle, however it generally requires 8-16 weeks to obtain results. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) has a rapid turnaround time, although its sensitivity is poor, especially in subclinically infected cattle. It is generally accepted that as the infection progresses, mean ELISA response and sensitivity increases. Cattle infected with MAP have a long prepatent period in which no shedding of the organism occurs, followed by intermittent then continuous shedding that increases in volume as the disease progresses. While any cow infected with MAP is undesirable, only cattle shedding the organism pose an immediate threat to other cattle. These cattle generally have higher ELISA optical density (OD) values compared to cattle not shedding MAP. The objective of this study was to compare the mean ELISA-adjusted OD values of cattle with negative fecal cultures to cattle classified as either low (≥10 cfu) or high (>10 cfu) shedders and determine the positive likelihood ratios for each.
Correspondence of parasympathetic-mediated heart rate variability derived from electrocardiogram and photoplethysmography signals in ethnically diverse adolescents.

Abstract The reliable and valid assessment of heart rate variability (HRV) is important to understanding autonomic functioning in youth. However, use of electrocardiogram (ECG) signals to derive estimates of parasympathetic-mediated HRV may present logistical barriers in applied settings. Thus, this study investigated the concordance between high-frequency HRV [HF-HRV] and root mean square of successive differences [RMSSD] derived from ECG and photoplethysmography (PPG) signals during a video baseline, resting baseline, and mental arithmetic among an ethnically diverse sample of ninety-six youths (Mage = 13.84; 51% male; 62.5% ethnic minority). Results showed moderate to almost perfect agreement between PPG- and ECG- derived HF-HRV and RMSSD for video and resting baselines (Lin's correlations ranged from 0.93 to 0.99) and limits of agreement (LoA) ranging from −0.48 to 0.58 (HF-HRV) and − 11.37 to 9.32 (RMSSD). Conversely, we found poor to moderate agreement for the mental arithmetic task (Lin's correlations ranged from 0.88 to 0.91) and LoA ranging from −0.68 + 0.94 (HF-HRV) and − 17.58 + 20.69 (RMSSD), though we did find ethnic minority youth had higher and moderate Lin's correlations (0.93 to 0.94). Overall, there was a bias towards higher HF-HRV and RMSSD values with PPG. Findings suggest that PPG-derived HF-HRV and RMSSD may be viable alternatives for ECG in baseline conditions, but tasks requiring movement or eliciting mild stress responses may result in less than perfect values and missing data patterns. It is imperative that future studies replicate these findings in other ethnically diverse youth samples and expand to younger children and applied settings.
Mother–child mutually responsive orientation and real-time physiological coordination

From a biobehavioral framework, mother-child physiological and behavioral coordination are interdependent processes that contribute to children's socioemotional development. Little is known, however, about the temporal pattern of real-time physiological coordination or its associations with global levels of mother-child behavioral coordination. We addressed these gaps using data from 110 mothers and their preschool-aged children (56 girls, Mage = 53.63 months, SD = 7.74) across two play tasks (i.e., puzzle, pretend play). Using indices of maternal and child parasympathetic response (i.e., changes in respiratory sinus arrhythmia [RSA]) across 15-s epochs, we tested the extent to which within-dyad physiological coordination was contingent on mutually responsive orientation (MRO; a global composite of behavioral coordination and shared positive affect assessed via observer ratings across each play task). Results from a series of two-level coupled autoregressive models indicated that MRO moderated mother-lead RSA coordination, and this pattern emerged across both play tasks. Controlling for stability of within-person RSA changes, increases in maternal RSA at time t - 1 predicted increases in children's RSA at time t, but only for dyads averaging higher MRO during play. No interactions of MRO emerged for child-lead RSA coordination. Findings highlight the importance of dyadic behavioral processes for mother-child physiological coordination.
Ultraviolet radiation for the sterilization of contact lenses

Two sources of ultraviolet (UV) radiation with peak wavelengths in the UV-C or UV-B ranges were compared for their ability to sterilize contact lenses infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Acanthamoeba castellani, Candida albicans, and Aspergillus niger. Also examined was the effect of prolonged UV light exposure on soft and rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses. The UV-C lamp (253.7 nm, 250 mW/cm2 at 1 cm) was germicidal for all organisms within 20 minutes but caused destruction of the soft lens polymers within 6 hours of cumulative exposure. UV-C caused damage to RGP lenses in less than 100 hours. The UV-B lamp (290-310 nm, 500 mW/cm2 at 1 cm) was germicidal for all organisms tested (except Aspergillus) with a 180-minute exposure and caused less severe changes in the soft lens polymers than did the UV-C lamp, although cumulative exposure of 300 hours did substantially weaken the soft lens material. RGP materials were minimally affected by exposure to 300 hours of UV-B. Ultraviolet light is an effective germicidal agent but is injurious to soft lens polymers; its possible utility in the sterilization of RGP lenses and lens cases deserves further study.
The Problem of Having Both a Body and a Name in the Work of Jean-Luc Marion: Names, Fathers, and the Hopeful Possibilities of a Queer Phenomenology

AbstractIn this essay, and following upon both Jacques Lacan’s and Jacques Derrida’s personal struggles with fatherhood and the naming of their children, I take up what I consider to be Jean-Luc Marion’s failure to deal with the embodiment of fatherhood through an examination of patriarchal signification, or, specifically, the naming of one’s children after the father — at least insofar as Marion’s brief analysis of this symbolic act points toward his failure to think through the various potential and lived embodiments of the father. I aim to illuminate how his efforts to continue this naming of the child with the father’s name speak more directly to an idealized (“theologized”) vision of our world that need not be serviced, indeed, which we would benefit from not utilizing at all. I wish, in an autobiographical-phenomenological response to Marion, to point to other names, other relationships, and other ways of perceiving how one might be situated within our world. I follow Sara Ahmed in calling “queer” w...
Optimization of a bundle divertor for the Fusion Engineering Device

Optimal double-T bundle divertor configurations have been obtained for the Fusion Engineering Device. On-axis ripple is minimized, while satisfying a series of engineering constraints. The ensuing nonlinear optimization problem is solved via a sequence of quadratic programming subproblems, using the VMCON software. The resulting divertor designs are substantially improved over previous configurations.
Synthesis and characterization of novel Group VI metal (Mo, W) nitride and oxide compounds

Investigations into the preparation of tungsten nitrides have involved the synthesis of molecular precursors, and their conversion to tungsten nitrides at relatively low temperatures. Two interesting molecular precursors, [WNCl{sub 3}{center_dot}NCCH{sub 3}]{sub 4} and WN(N{sub 3}){sub 3}{center_dot}xNCCH{sub 3}, have been prepared and characterized. The molecular structure of the first consists of a W{sub 4}N{sub 4} tetrameric core with multiple and single W-N bonds arranged in an alternating fashion. Three new solid state phases, amorphous W{sub 3}N{sub 5}, cubic WN, and W{sub 2}N{sub 2}(C{sub 2}N{sub 2}), have been discovered by solid state and chemical vapor transport reactions. The structures have been investigated. A systematic study in the Ln{sub 2}O{sub 3}-MoO{sub 3}-Mo (Ln = La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Sm) system has been explored to better understand LnMo{sub 8}O{sub 14}. The study has shown that the sizes of the rare-earth cations affect the formation of these phases. Larger cations (La, Ce, and Pr) aid in the formation of trans-Mo{sub 8} bicapped octahedra, and the smaller cations (Nd, Sm) only stabilize the cis-Mo{sub 8} bicapped octahedra. Magnetic susceptibility measurements have indicated that no effective moment contribution arises from the Mo{sub 8} metal clusters, even though the cis-Mo{sub 8} cluster in LnMo{sub 8}O{sub 14}, containing all cis-Mo{sub 8} octahedra, apparently contains an odd number of electrons (23). Electrical resistivity measurements and electronic structure calculations have shown that the LnMo{sub 8}O{sub 14} compounds containing cis-Mo{sub 8} clusters are metallic, and the LnMo{sub 8}O{sub 14} compounds containing a 1:1 ratio of cis- to trans-Mo{sub 8} clusters are semiconducting.
Olfactory function in restless legs syndrome

Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is usually idiopathic but may occur in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). Both respond to dopaminergic medications. Whether these disorders share a common pathophysiology is unclear. Because PD is associated with a loss of olfactory function, we compared the olfactory function, we compared the olfactory function of patients with RLS with control and PD patients. Using the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT), olfactory function was found to be normal in patients with idiopathic RLS and significantly reduced in patients with PD. This suggests that the pathophysiology of RLS differs from PD, and that RLS likely is not a “forme fruste” or a preclinical sign of PD.
Weather Disruption-Tolerant Self-Optimising Millimeter Mesh Networks

Millimeter-wave networks have the potential to supplement fiber in providing high-speed Internet access, as well as backhaul for emerging mobile 3G and 4G services. However, due to the high frequency of operation (70---90 GHz), such networks are highly susceptible to attenuation from rain. In this paper, we present several mechanisms to overcome the disruptive effects of rain storms on network connectivity and service reliability. A resilient mesh topology with cross-layering between the physical and network layer has the capability to self-optimise under the presence of unstable links. We present a novel domain-specific predictive routing algorithm P-WARP that uses real-time radar data to dynamically route traffic around link failures as well as a modified link-state algorithm XL-OSPF that uses cross-layering to achieve resilient routing. Simulations are conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithms.
Manufacturing Facility Design and Layout

In this article, we introduce the manufacturing facility design and layout problem and discuss the characteristics and types of next-generation factory layouts and the need for a stochastic analysis of layout and facility design problems. Keywords: facilities design; layout; next-generation factory layout; stochastic analysis; quadratic assignment problem
The role of accessory proteins in melanocortin receptor signaling

Switching from eumelanin to pheomelanin synthesis during hair growth is accomplished by transient synthesis of agouti protein, an inverse agonist for the melanocortin 1 receptor (Mc1r). The ability of agouti to signal via the Mc1r requires two additional genes, Attractin (Atrn) and Mahogunin (Mgrn1), which encode a type I transmembrane protein and an E3 ubiquitin ligase, respectively. Atrn and Mgrn1 are genetically upstream of the Mc1r, but transgenic and biochemical studies indicate that all three genes act in a melanocyte-autonomous manner. To gain additional insight into pigment-type switching, we have carried out biochemical and cell biologic studies which suggest that Mgrn and Atrn are part of a conserved biochemical and genetic pathway that acts to regulate Mc1r-dependent signaling. We have also used an additional genetic model system based on coat color in dogs, in which we find that dominant inheritance of black coat color is caused neither by Mc1r nor by agouti, but instead maps to a region not previously implicated in pigmentation genetics.
Structure of the elk-1-DNA complex reveals how DNA-distal residues affect ETS domain recognition of DNA.

SAP-1 and Elk-1 are members of a large group of eukaryotic transcription factors that contain a conserved ETS DNA binding domain and that cooperate with the serum response factor (SRF) to activate transcription of the c-fos protooncogene. Despite the high degree of sequence similarity, which includes an identical amino acid sequence for the DNA recognition helix within the ETS domain of these proteins, they exhibit different DNA binding properties. Here we report the 2.1 ? crystal structure of the ETS domain of Elk-1 bound to a high affinity E74 DNA (E74DNA) site and compare it to a SAP-1-E74DNA complex. This comparison reveals that the differential DNA binding properties of these proteins are mediated by non-conserved residues distal to the DNA binding surface that function to orient conserved residues in the DNA recognition helix for protein-specific DNA contacts. As a result, nearly one-third of the interactions between the protein recognition helix and the DNA are different between the SAP-1 and Elk-1 DNA complexes. Taken together, these studies reveal a novel mechanism for the modulation of DNA binding specificity within a conserved DNA binding domain, and have implications for how highly homologous ETS proteins exhibit differential DNA-binding properties.
How sequence directs bending in tropomyosin and other two-stranded alpha-helical coiled coils

A quantitative analysis of the direction of bending of two-stranded alpha-helical coiled coils in crystal structures has been carried out to help determine how the amino acid sequence of the coiled coil influences its shape and function. Change in the axial staggering of the coiled coil, occurring at the boundaries of either clusters of core alanines in tropomyosin or of clusters of core bulky residues in the myosin rod, causes bending within the plane of the local dimer. The results also reveal that large gaps in the core of the coiled coil, which are seen for small core residues near large core residues or for unbranched core residues near canonical branched core residues, are correlated with bending out of the local dimeric plane. Comparison of tropomyosin structures determined in independent crystal environments provides further evidence for the concept that sequence directs the bending of the coiled coil, but that crystal environment is at least as important as sequence for determining the magnitude of bending. Tropomyosin thus appears to consist of more directionally restrained hinge-like joints rather than directionally variable universal joints, which helps account for and predicts the geometric and dynamic nature of its binding to F-actin.
Agency conflicts in the presence of random private benefits from project implementation

Abstract We study a contracting problem where a principal delegates the decision to implement a “project” to an agent who obtains private information about the value of the project before making the implementation decision. Moral hazard arises because the agent gets private random non-contractible benefits, or incurs private random non-contractible costs, if the project is implemented. This contracting problem is pervasive, when “project” and “benefits” are interpreted broadly. Even when the agent is risk-neutral, we show that the principal’s optimal contract always insufficiently discourages the agent from implementing negative NPV projects and also insufficiently encourages the agent to implement positive NPV projects. We also show that the principal’s residual claim always increases in the project’s NPV, a result that is generally unobtainable for optimal contracts in effort-based moral hazard problem settings.
Unrestricted wind farm layout optimization (UWFLO): Investigating key factors influencing the maximum power generation

Abstract A new methodology, the Unrestricted Wind Farm Layout Optimization (UWFLO), that addresses critical aspects of optimal wind farm planning is presented in this paper. This methodology simultaneously determines the optimum farm layout and the appropriate selection of turbines (in terms of their rotor diameters) that maximizes the net power generation. The farm layout model obviates traditional restrictions imposed on the location of turbines. A standard analytical wake model has been used to account for the velocity deficits in the wakes created by individual turbines. The wind farm power generation model is validated against data from a wind tunnel experiment on a scaled down wind farm. Reasonable agreement between the model and experimental results is obtained. The complex nonlinear optimization problem presented by the wind farm model is effectively solved using constrained Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO). It is found that an optimal combination of wind turbines with differing rotor diameters can appreciably improve the farm efficiency. A preliminary wind farm cost analysis is performed to express the cost in terms of the turbine rotor diameters and the number of turbines in the farm. Subsequent exploration of the influences of (i) the number of turbines, and (ii) the farm land size, on the cost per Kilowatt of power produced, yields important observations.
Symbolic play and ideational fluency as aspects of the evolving divergent cognitive style in young children

This chapter reviews a number of studies which have found relationships between symbolic play and ideational fluency. It reports results from own recent research that shed light both on the relationship between pretend play and associative fluency during the preschool years and the longitudinal relationship between play at preschool and other manifestations of creativity during the early school years. The chapter suggests alternative conceptualizations, consistent with the data, which might help to explain the manner in which pretend play contributes to the cognitive development of young children during the preschool and early school years. Preschool play observations were conducted during indoor free-play periods. Each child was observed for five-minute periods on each of six different days during a two to three week period of time. In 1959, while Guilford distinguished between associative fluency and ideational fluency, that distinction has not been generally maintained in the literature.
Internal ethnicity in the ethnic economy

Abstract Internal ethnicity refers to ethnic subgroups within an immigrant group. An ‘ethnic economy’ includes the self‐employed and their co‐ethnic workers. Although most research treats the boundaries of ‘ethnic economy’ and its variant, the ‘ethnic enclave economy’, as though they were coterminous with those of national‐origin immigrant groups, this assumption is unreliable. Ethnic boundaries need not coincide with those of nationality origin when internal ethnicity exists. To test this hypothesis, we utilize survey data collected from a sample of Iranians in Los Angeles. Because this national‐origin immigrant group contains four ethno‐religious subgroups (Armenians, Bahais, Jews and Muslims), the Iranians in Los Angeles operated four distinctive ethnic economies, not one. Each ethno‐religious subgroup had its own ethnic economy, and these separate economies were only weakly tied to an encompassing Iranian ethnic economy.
Iron chelators induce autophagic cell death in multiple myeloma cells

We examined the antineoplastic effects of the iron chelators, deferasirox and deferoxamine in multiple myeloma cell lines as well as primary myeloma cells. These iron chelators showed marked antiproliferative activity as well as cytotoxicity toward myeloma cell lines and deferasirox was cytotoxic to bone marrow plasma cells from myeloma patients. We also demonstrate that autophagy induced by iron deprivation is the dominant mechanism that mediates the cytotoxicity of iron chelators in multiple myeloma. Exposure to iron chelators led to repression of mTOR signaling as evidenced by decreased phosphorylation of its target p70S6 kinase. Iron chelation, in particular with deferasirox has the potential to be readily translated to a clinical trial for multiple myeloma.
An Amphiphilic Nanocarrier Based on Guar Gum-graft-Poly(ε-caprolactone) for Potential Drug-Delivery Applications

Amphiphilic guar gum grafted with poly(epsilon-caprolactone) (GG-g-PCL) was fabricated as a drug-delivery carrier using microwave irradiation. The structure of the GG-g-PCL co-polymer was characterized by (1)H-NMR spectroscopy. By microwave irradiation, GG-g-PCL with high grafting percentage (>200%) was obtained in a short reaction time. The GG-g-PCL co-polymer is capable of self-assembling into nanosized spherical micelles in aqueous solution with the diameter of around 75-135 nm and 60-100 nm, as determined by DLS and TEM, respectively. The critical micelle concentration (CMC) of GG-g-PCL was found to be approx. 0.56 mg/l in a phosphate buffer solution. The drug-release profile showed that the GG-g-PCL micelles provided an initial burst release followed by a sustained release of the entrapped hydrophobic model drug, ketoprofen, over a period of 10-68 h. Under physiological conditions, the GG-g-PCL co-polymer hydrolytically degraded into lower-molecular-weight fragments within a 7-week period. These results suggest that the GG-g-PCL micelles could be used as a nanocarrier for in vitro controlled drug delivery.
Intermediate-risk localized prostate cancer in the PSA era: radiotherapeutic alternatives.

Objectives To retrospectively compare the biochemical disease-free survival (BDFS) of patients treated with standard dose external beam radiotherapy (SD-EBRT), SD-EBRT plus androgen deprivation (AD), and brachytherapy-based treatment (brachytherapy with or without EBRT with or without AD). Methods All 297 patients with intermediate-risk prostate cancer treated with these radiation-based treatments at our institution from August 1989 to June 2001 were included. Biochemical relapse was defined according to the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology (ASTRO) definition, a prostate-specific antigen level of 1.5 ng/mL or greater and rising on two consecutive occasions (the “Bolla” definition), and the current prostate-specific antigen nadir plus 2 ng/mL with failure dated “at call” (the “Houston/Phoenix” definition). The number of patients treated with SD-EBRT, SD-EBRT plus AD, and brachytherapy-based treatment was 141, 84, and 72, respectively. The year of treatment was analyzed as a prognostic factor. The median follow-up was 32.3, 34.7, and 41.5 months for the ASTRO, Bolla, and Houston/Phoenix definitions, respectively. Results The brachytherapy-based treatment resulted in improved BDFS compared with SD-EBRT (ASTRO definition, 5-year BDFS rate 88% ± 5% versus 49% ± 5%, P P P = 0.01). SD-EBRT plus AD was superior to SD-EBRT alone using the Bolla definition (5-year BDFS 76% ± 7% versus 49% ± 5%, P P = 0.01), but not using the ASTRO definition ( P = 0.17). Multivariate analysis, including prostate-specific antigen, clinical stage, Gleason score, and year of treatment, demonstrated improved biochemical outcomes for brachytherapy-based treatment versus SD-EBRT (ASTRO, P P P = 0.07) and for the addition of AD to SD-EBRT (Bolla, P P = 0.03). The year of treatment trended toward significance ( P = 0.077) on multivariate analysis using the ASTRO definition. Conclusions For patients with intermediate-risk prostate cancer, brachytherapy-based treatment and the addition of AD to SD-EBRT resulted in improved biochemical outcomes compared with the outcomes with SD-EBRT alone; however, these findings were dependent on the definition of biochemical failure used. The year of treatment may be an important prognostic factor in intermediate-risk prostate cancer.
Plastic torsion of prismatic metal bars—mainly in respect of length changes: A review

Abstract The plastic torsion of circular and non-circular prismatic bars is reviewed. Primarily, the torsion test is conducted to provide shear-stress data, but investigation shows many poorly explained or explored phenomena associated therewith, particularly the nature of length changes with increasing strain and the effects of the discontinuous yielding of steel in torsion. Some of such phenomena as the latter are very pertinent to an understanding of suchmetal processing operations as include twisting, hot as well as cold, and fast as well as slow.
High-latitude truncation errors of box-type primitive equation models

The 'box-type' finite-difference method includes a weighted average of the pressure gradient with weights proportional to the surface of the grid walls. It is shown that this averaging introduces first-order truncation errors near the poles. An example is shown in which the relative error is of zero order and the scheme produces large distortions in the solution at high latitudes.
How did dermatology develop in the United States

Dermatology began to appear as a specialty in the United States in the post-Civil War period, when there was a dramatic increase in medical knowledge, as well as in the population. The horrors of the Civil War called attention to many skin diseases. Ophthalmology and otolaryngology developed due mostly to the introduction of instrumentation, whereas dermatology grew based on observation. With the increase in urban populations, the opportunity for medical specialization and, in particular, dermatology, appeared and would be accepted.
Structural and electronic characteristics of thienyl(aryl)iodonium triflates

A general strategy toward the synthesis of aryliodonium triflate salts has been exploited to afford derivatives that incorporate thiophene and bithiophene components. Both mono- and bis(iodonium) salts have been realized, and a series of bithienyl(aryl)iodonium triflates with increasingly electron-withdrawing substituents on the aryl moiety have been synthesized. X-ray crystallographic analysis of four derivatives (4a, 4b, 6b, and 8c) demonstrates that the solid-state organization of these salts incorporates extensive networks of secondary bonding interactions between the cationic iodonium centers and the triflate counterions. UV-vis spectroscopic analysis shows that the electronic interactions between pendent aryl and heteroaryl groups across the iodonium center can be dictated by substitution. Furthermore, the energy of the HOMO-LUMO gap decreases substantially in weakly or noncoordinating solvents.
The largest segments that should not be served: higher education marketing serving the growing slacker segment

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to recognize how common practices of selling textbooks to university educators provide the tools for the faculty to minimize their teaching efforts. When coupled with higher education practices that see students as customers, such as university administrators' day‐to‐day goals driven by concerns of complaint avoidance, students “voting with their feet” for popular courses or the evaluation of teaching by use of students' evaluations of faculty, actual education gets minimized.Design/method/approach – The paper describes common supplemental teaching aids provided to adopters of textbooks, but noting that the extensive use of these tools results in decreasing outcomes of student learning. The textbook publishers are using good marketing practices in that these textbook supplements target faculty who teach large numbers of students every year. In turn, the faculty who rely on these aids can become very popular with students. However, marketing to these segments of facul...
SU‐FF‐T‐257: How Useful Are DVH's in IMRT Plan Intercomparisons?

Purpose: To test the sensitivity of DVH‐derived dose indices in comparisons of IMRT plans using different dose calculation methods. Materials and Methods: Eighteen Head‐and‐Neck IMRT patient plans are computed with SC and Monte Carlo(MC) algorithms using identical dose grid placement and resolution. Dose volume histograms (DVH) and resultant dose indices from each plan are evaluated for targets and critical structures as a function of the dose calculation method. The difference of the dose indices is tabulated. An alternate numerical method is introduced where the difference of the doses computed by the two methods are computed for each dose grid element, and divided by the average value at that point. Thereafter, the relative dose difference matrices are overlayed onto the 3D CT and contoured structures. The weighted average and standard deviation of the relative dose difference values over all points within each structure and target are extracted and compared to the dose index differences. Results: A linear regression analysis is possible between the average dose differences and the differences in the dose indices. However, the resultant fit shows a weak correlation, due to exacerbated standard deviations in the dose differences for all targets and dose‐limiting structures. The large standard deviations reflect the differences in the location of hotspots and coldspots in the treatment plans derived from different calculation methods, which cannot be probed with DVH analyses. Conclusions:IMRT planning dose calculation may not be compared accurately with dose index analyses. Thus, we propose the implementation of a weighted dose difference analysis, beyond DVH analysis, for IMRT planning comparisons studies. The present method is an ideal evaluation tool in probabilistic planning and IGRT planning studies, where DVH analyses alone will be insensitive to differences in the location of hotspots and coldspots, within targets and critical structures. (Partial Support, NIH‐1R01CA98524).
A Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 Activation Cascade by Hepatic Stellate Cells in Trans-differentiation in the Three-dimensional Extracellular Matrix

Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) undergo myofibroblastic trans-differentiation in liver fibrogenesis. We previously showed that dual stimulation with three-dimensional type-I collagen and interleukin-1 (IL-1) synergistically induces HSC trans-differentiation in a manner dependent on the activation of matrix metallopreinase-9 (MMP-9). The present study is aimed to determine the mechanism of MMP-9 activation in this model. The pro-MMP-9-converting activities expressed by trans-differentiating HSCs are characterized as secreted factors that are sensitive to MMP inhibitor and have apparent molecular masses of 50 and 25 kDa. This is in sharp contrast to the pro-MMP-9 activator from mouse and human skin, which is a chymotrypsin-like proteinase. Among multiple MMPs induced in HSCs by the dual stimulation, MMP-13 is most conspicuously up-regulated and meets all criteria as the pro-MMP-9 activator. HSC cultured in three-dimensional type-I collagen, but not in Matrigel, IL-1 induces expression of MMP-13 and its matured form at 50 and 25 kDa, respectively. In vitro reconstitution experiment proves that MMP-13, but not its zymogen, activates pro-MMP-9. Further, short hairpin RNA targeting MMP-13 abolishes pro-MMP-9 activation and HSC trans-differentiation. We further demonstrate that pro-MMP-13 activation is facilitated with a membrane-associated factor, inhibited with tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2, and abolished with short hairpin RNA against MMP-14. Moreover, pro-MMP-13 is also activated by a secreted factor, which is absorbed by gelatin-Sepharose and reconstituted with MMP-9. Thus, IL-1-induced trans-differentiation of HSCs in three-dimensional extracellular matrix is facilitated by an MMP activation cascade (MMP-14 > MMP-13 > MMP-9) and a positive feedback loop of MMP-9 > MMP-13, suggesting their critical roles in liver injury and repair.
Seasonal, soil type, and alternative management influences on microbial communities of vegetable cropping systems

Microbial community responses to alternative management may be indicative of soil quality change. In this study, soils were collected from research plots over 2 years and from commercial grower fields over 1 year. Treatments at the sites included 1–9 years of either winter cover cropping or winter fallow practices. Soils were assayed for microbial fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs), direct count microscopy and Biolog substrate utilization potentials to assess management and environmental influences on soil communities. The strongest influence was season. Soils in early spring (prior to termination of the cover crop) utilized fewer carboxylic acids and generally were enriched in eukaryotic FAMEs, whereas proportionally more bacterial FAMEs were detected in soils at canopy closure and harvest of the summer vegetable crop. Within a season, community FAME and Biolog patterns were related to field properties. FAME profiles from grower fields in early spring and harvest were correlated significantly with soil texture, cation exchange capacity, and carbon content. Changes in community structure and Biolog potential occurred in some soils in response to winter cover crops, although effects were not observed until cover crop incorporation. Greater amounts of fungal and protozoan FAME markers were detected in some cover-cropped soils compared to winter fallow soils. Cover crop residues increased FAME diversity at one research station and Biolog diversity at two research stations and the grower fields. Although seasonal and field-dependent factors are major determinants of microbial community structure, shifts can occur as soil physical and chemical properties change in response to alternative practices, as demonstrated by this study.
Epidural anesthesia for cesarean delivery and vaginal birth after maternal Fontan repair: Report of two cases

The number of women reaching child-bearing age after undergoing a Fontan procedure to repair a congenital heart defect is increasing (14). This is most likely a consequence of the high long-term survival and the excellent quality of life resulting from this procedure (1–4). Origmally applied to pati