cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Involvement of Agrobacterium tumefaciens Galacturonate Tripartite ATP-Independent Periplasmic (TRAP) Transporter GaaPQM in Virulence Gene Expression

Monosaccharides capable of serving as nutrients for the soil bacterium Agrobacterium tumefaciens are also inducers of the vir regulon present in the tumor-inducing (Ti) plasmid of this plant pathogen. One such monosaccharide is galacturonate, the predominant monomer of pectin found in plant cell walls. This ligand is recognized by the periplasmic sugar binding protein ChvE, which interacts with the VirA histidine kinase that controls vir gene expression. Although ChvE is also a member of the ChvE-MmsAB ABC transporter involved in the utilization of many neutral sugars, it is not involved in galacturonate utilization. In this study, a putative tripartite ATP-independent periplasmic (TRAP) transporter, GaaPQM, is shown to be essential for the utilization of galacturonic acid; we show that residue R169 in the predicted sugar binding site of the GaaP is required for activity. The gene upstream of gaaPQM (gaaR) encodes a member of the GntR family of regulators. GaaR is shown to repress the expression of gaaPQM, and the repression is relieved in the presence of the substrate for GaaPQM. Moreover, GaaR is shown to bind putative promoter regions in the sequences required for galacturonic acid utilization. Finally, A. tumefaciens strains carrying a deletion of gaaPQM are more sensitive to galacturonate as an inducer of vir gene expression, while the overexpression of gaaPQM results in strains being less sensitive to this vir inducer. This supports a model in which transporter activity is crucial in ensuring that vir gene expression occurs only at sites of high ligand concentration, such as those at a plant wound site.
Subset Selection Algorithms: Randomized vs. Deterministic

Abstract. Subset selection is a method for selecting a subset of columns from a real matrix, so that the subset represents the entire matrix well and is far from being rank deficient. We begin by extending a deterministic subset selection algorithm to matrices that have more columns than rows. Then we investigate a two-stage subset selection algorithm that utilizes a randomized stage to pick a smaller number of candidate columns, which are forwarded for to the deterministic stage for subset selection. We perform extensive numerical experiments to compare the accuracy of this algorithm with the best known deterministic algorithm. We also introduce an iterative algorithm that systematically determines the number of candidate columns picked in the randomized stage, and we provide a recommendation for a specific value. Motivated by our experimental results, we propose a new two stage deterministic algorithm for subset selection. In our numerical experiments, this new algorithm appears to be as accurate as the best deterministic algorithm, but it is faster, and it is also easier to implement than the randomized algorithm.
Lithogic partitioning of fluids and melts

Under conditions of mechanical equilibrium, the grain-scale distribution of fluid or melt in a lithologically complex system is governed by the relative energies of the mineral-fluid interfaces and the grain boundaries. Accordingly, spatial changes in mineralogy imply accompanying changes in the connectivity and even the amount of fluid (or melt) present at equilibrium. The hypothesized phenomenon of local variation in fluid or melt abundance with spatial changes in mineralogy is referred to here as lithologic partitioning of fluid or melt. The phenomenon is potentially important because it could lead to the existence of highly permeable (or impermeable) zones in lithologically complex regions of the crust and upper mantle. To verify and evaluate the concept of lithologic partitioning of aqueous fluid, experiments were conducted in simple analog systems by annealing juxtaposed cylinders of two different rock types at 700-925 degrees C and 1.0-1.5 GPa. These polycrystalline fluid partition couples included the following rock pairs: calcite-fluorite, quartz-fluorite, and quartz-clinopyroxene, with overall aqueous fluid volume fractions (phi ) ranging from approximately 0.015 to 0.10. In calcite-fluorite couples, fluid is partitioned by a factor of approximately 1.5-5 into the fluorite (the actual value depends upon the chemical purity of the fluorite). In fluorite-quartz couples, the fluid is partitioned into the quartz by a factor of 2-5, and in quartz-clinopyroxene couples it is enriched in the clinopyroxene by a factor of approximately 3. Similar experiments were done in a partially molten mantle system by juxtaposing peridotite and orthopyroxenite cylinders in the presence of approximately 6% basaltic melt. In this case, however, no preference of the melt for one host rock relative to the other could be verified. In general, lithologic partitioning is a factor to be reckoned with as we seek understanding of fluid-related petrologic and geochemical phenomena: the effect is clearly capable of rapid and significant re-distribution and localization of fluids in mineralogically variable systems.
CHANGES IN THE FOREST-ALPINE TUNDRA ECOTONE: COLORADO FRONT RANGE

On Niwot Ridge, alpine climatic factors dominate today within the upper part of the forest-alpine tundra ecotone on the east slope of the Colorado Front Range. This study provides evidence that the climatic conditions controlling the distribution of the upper limit of tree species and growth forms within the ecotone have changed through time. It appears that much of the present forest-alpine tundra ecotone is a relict of past warm climate episodes. There is much evidence that, in the past, tree forms were more symmetrical and less deformed, tree trunks with larger diameters existed, and the trees were more extensive in areal coverage. However, no evidence exists to show that the upper limit of tree species growth was more than marginally higher in the past than today. The treeline appears to be stable to historical and Holocene climatic fluctuations, but the altitudinal limits of seedling establishment and survival are not stable. The liming of climatic changes in the Front Range and their possible influe...
Unified Principles for Nonlinear Nonstationary Random Fields in Stochastic Geosciences

Multiple stochastic integrals are defined by extending Ito’s principle. The formulations enable the modeling of non-stationary fields, contributing to answer the question: How are the laws of physics connected to non-stationary geostatistics? Stochastic integration is applied to heterogeneous stationary finite difference models, which could represent physical stochastic partial differential equations (spde) (e.g., streamline flow and transport). The approach enables the modeling of geoscience phenomena, with parameter and response fields using boundary conditions. The resulting models contain nonlinear and drift components. Therefore, unbiased nonlinear expected values are computed by Riemann–Stieltjes averaging.
Herpes Simplex Virus Mutant Generation and Dual-Detection Methods for Gaining Insight into Latent/Lytic Cycles In Vivo

Two important components to a useful strategy to examine viral gene regulation in vivo are (1) a highly efficient protocol to generate viral mutants that limits undesired mutation and retains full replication competency in vivo and (2) an efficient system to detect and quantify viral promoter activity in rare cells in vivo. Our strategy and protocols for generating, characterizing, and employing HSV viral promoter/reporter mutants in vivo are provided in this two-part chapter.
SU-F-T-570: Comparison of Synthetic Diamond, Microionization Chamber, and Radiochromic Film for Absolute Dosimetry of VMAT Radiosurgery

Purpose: Patient specific quality assurance of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) plans is challenging because of small target sizes and high dose gradients. We compared three detectors for dosimetry of VMAT SRS plans. Methods: The dose at the center of seventeen targets was measured using a synthetic diamond detector (2.2 mm diameter, 1 µm thickness), a 0.007 cm3 ionization chamber, and radiochromic film. Measurements were made in a PMMA phantom in the clinical geometry – all gantry and table angles were delivered as planned. The diamond and chamber positions were offset by 1 cm from the film plane, so the isocenter was shifted accordingly to place the center of the target at the detector of interest. To ensure accurate detector placement, the phantom was positioned using kV images. To account for the shift-induced difference in geometry and differing prescription doses between plans, the measurements were normalized to the expected dose calculated by the treatment planning system. Results: The target sizes ranged from 2.8 mm to 34.8 mm (median 14.8 mm). The mean measurement-to-plan ratios were 1.054, 1.076, and 1.023 for RCF, diamond, and chamber, respectively. The mean difference between the chamber and film was −3.2% and between diamond and film was 2.2%. For targets larger than 15 mm, the mean difference relative to film was −0.8% and 0.1% for chamber and diamond, respectively, whereas for targets smaller than 15 mm, the difference was −5.3% and 4.2% for chamber and diamond, respectively. The difference was significant (p=0.005) using the two-sample Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. Conclusion: The detectors agree for target sizes larger than 15 mm. Relative to film, for smaller targets the diamond detector over-responds, whereas the ionization chamber under-responds. Further work is needed to characterize detector response in modulated SRS fields.
REDD + research: Reviewing the literature, limitations and ways forward

Abstract This study analyzes articles of various research design methods such as case studies, survey studies, descriptive studies, exploratory studies, and historical studies, to determine research trends on reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation (REDD +). The study investigates how REDD + research has evolved over a nine-year period, from 2007 when the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Conference of the Parties (COP13) agreed to adopt an international REDD mechanism, until 2015. The study found that even though there has been a significant increase in REDD + research since 2007, there are variations in country and regional studies as well as significant gaps in the REDD + literature. However, there is optimism that promising forthcoming research in the post-Paris Agreement era will cover the existing gaps in REDD + literature.
Social marketing and advertising appeals: On perception and intention to purchase condoms among college students

AbstractSex and fear appeals are often used in advertising to catch the attention of buyers and influence their purchase behavior. Previous studies have shown that ads with sex appeals draws the most attention and creates a positive emotional response towards products while fear appeals persuade buyers to purchase a product in order to avoid any negative outcomes. The objective of this study is to examine college students’ responses to condom advertisements using both sex and fear appeals. An ad with sex appeal and the other with fear appeal were created along with questionnaires and distributed to college students to investigate whether sex and fear appeals affect their perceptions on a condom's protection and experience and their purchase intention. Our findings reveal that college students are more likely to purchase a condom from the ad with sex appeal instead of the one with fear appeal. Sex appeal is more effective when selling a condom because the overall experience is perceived to be more positive...
Fine Particulate Matter Concentrations in Urban Chinese Cities, 2005–2016: A Systematic Review

Background: Particulate matter pollution has become a growing health concern over the past few decades globally. The problem is especially evident in China, where particulate matter levels prior to 2013 are publically unavailable. We conducted a systematic review of scientific literature that reported fine particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations in different regions of China from 2005 to 2016. Methods: We searched for English articles in PubMed and Embase and for Chinese articles in the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI). We evaluated the studies overall and categorized the collected data into six geographical regions and three economic regions. Results: The mean (SD) PM2.5 concentration, weighted by the number of sampling days, was 60.64 (33.27) μg/m³ for all geographic regions and 71.99 (30.20) μg/m³ for all economic regions. A one-way ANOVA shows statistically significant differences in PM2.5 concentrations between the various geographic regions (F = 14.91, p < 0.0001) and the three economic regions (F = 4.55, p = 0.01). Conclusions: This review identifies quantifiable differences in fine particulate matter concentrations across regions of China. The highest levels of fine particulate matter were found in the northern and northwestern regions and especially Beijing. The high percentage of data points exceeding current federal regulation standards suggests that fine particulate matter pollution remains a huge problem for China. As pre-2013 emissions data remain largely unavailable, we hope that the data aggregated from this systematic review can be incorporated into current and future models for more accurate historical PM2.5 estimates.
Synthesis of olefins via a Wittig reaction mediated by triphenylarsine.

Abstract An arsine-mediated Wittig reaction for the synthesis of olefins is described. After heating triphenylarsine in the presence of an activated alkyl bromide for 30 min, the resulting arsonium salt condensed with aldehydes in as little as 5 min at room temperature, yielding the olefins in high yields. Aromatic, heteroaromatic, and alkyl aldehydes were all suitable substrates for this process.
Exploring Covalent Allosteric Inhibition of Antigen 85C from Mycobacterium tuberculosis by Ebselen Derivatives

Previous studies identified ebselen as a potent in vitro and in vivo inhibitor of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) antigen 85 (Ag85) complex, comprising three homologous enzymes required for the biosynthesis of the mycobacterial cell wall. In this study, the Mtb Ag85C enzyme was cocrystallized with azido and adamantyl ebselen derivatives, resulting in two crystallographic structures of 2.01 and 1.30 A resolution, respectively. Both structures displayed the anticipated covalent modification of the solvent accessible, noncatalytic Cys209 residue forming a selenenylsulfide bond. Continuous difference density for both thiol modifiers allowed for the assessment of interactions that influence ebselen binding and inhibitor orientation that were unobserved in previous Ag85C ebselen structures. The kinact/KI values for ebselen, adamantyl ebselen, and azido ebselen support the importance of observed constructive chemical interactions with Arg239 for increased in vitro efficacy toward Ag85C. To better understand...
Human hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (HGPRT): purification and properties.

Hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (HGPRT) (E.C. 2.4.2.8.) catalyzes the formation of guanosine-5’-monophosphate and inosine-5’-monophosphate from 5’-phosphoribosyl-l-pyrophosphate (PPribose-P) and the purine bases guanine and hypoxanthine, respectively. Although originally assigned simply a “salvage” function in purine metabolism, the discovery of a virtually complete, X-linked deficiency of HGPRT associated with hyperuricemia, hyperuricaciduria and a bizarre neurologic syndrome (Lesch-Nyhan syndrome) has led to a reevaluation of the importance of HGPRT in the regulation of purine metabolism and central nervous system function (Seegmiller, Rosenbloom and Kelley, 1967). Therefore, an analysis of the structure of the normal enzyme is necessary to provide a basis for understanding the genetic lesion(s) producing altered or absent enzyme function. We have purified HGPRT to homogeneity from non-pooled, human male erythrocytes and have attempted to elucidate the nature of the electrophoretic heterogeneity of HGPRT activity observed during the purification (Arnold and Kelley, 1971; Kelley and Arnold, 1973).
Population implications of the use of bedaquiline in people with extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis: are fears of resistance justified?

Summary Global rollout of the new antituberculosis drug bedaquiline has been slow, in part reflecting concerns about spread of bedaquiline resistance. Acquired resistance to bedaquiline is especially likely in patients with extensively drug-resistant (XDR) tuberculosis. However, the very high mortality rates of patients with XDR not receiving bedaquiline, and promising cohort study results, suggest these patients also have greatest need for the drug. In this Personal View, we argue that resistance concerns should not forestall use of bedaquiline in patients with XDR tuberculosis. Our position in favour of increased access to bedaquiline for these patients is based on three arguments. First, the use of drug combinations that include bedaquiline might prevent spread of XDR disease to others in the community. Second, until new combination regimens of novel drugs for XDR tuberculosis become available, patients with XDR disease and their infected contacts will face equivalent outcomes if bedaquiline is either not provided because of policy, or not effective because of resistance. Finally, because resistance to bedaquiline and other antituberculosis drugs is caused by mutations within a single bacterial chromosome, use of bedaquiline in patients with XDR tuberculosis will not substantially increase the risk of bedaquiline resistance in patients with drug-susceptible or multidrug-resistant (non‑XDR) tuberculosis strains.
Long-term rates of mitochondrial protein synthesis are increased in mouse skeletal muscle with high-fat feeding regardless of insulin-sensitizing treatment.

Skeletal muscle mitochondrial protein synthesis is regulated in part by insulin. The development of insulin resistance with diet-induced obesity may therefore contribute to impairments to protein s...
Reproduction, feeding and migration patterns of Prochilodus nigricans (Characiformes: Prochilodontidae) in northeastern Ecuador

ABSTRACT The black prochilodus, Prochilodus nigricans, is an important food fish distributed throughout aquatic habitats of the Ecuadorian Amazon. We sampled gonad weight, body condition, and feeding of this species to address the question of whether changes in these biological parameters are related to hydrological variation and migration patterns. High frequency of empty stomachs and poor body condition corresponded to migration periods. Gonad condition analysis revealed a single, discrete spawning period in April (end of rising water season). We synthesized our own and published observations on migration patterns of black prochilodus and presumptive factors that influence those movements. Mature individuals make lateral migrations from peripheral flooded habitats to large white water rivers to spawn. Eggs and larvae drift downstream to nurseries at least into Peru and perhaps into Brazil; there do not appear to be nursery habitats in Ecuador. After 6-18 months, they migrate upstream, recruiting to parental stocks. Long-distance migrations of black prochilodus and similar fishes in Neotropical rivers disobey political boundaries. Conservation and management of such migratory fishes, thus, requires international co-operation and integrated conservation efforts.
Dynamics and number of trans-SNARE complexes determine nascent fusion pore properties

The fusion pore is the first crucial intermediate formed during exocytosis, yet little is known about the mechanisms that determine the size and kinetic properties of these transient structures. Here, we reduced the number of available SNAREs (proteins that mediate vesicle fusion) in neurons and observed changes in transmitter release that are suggestive of alterations in fusion pores. To investigate these changes, we employed reconstituted fusion assays using nanodiscs to trap pores in their initial open state. Optical measurements revealed that increasing the number of SNARE complexes enhanced the rate of release from single pores and enabled the escape of larger cargoes. To determine whether this effect was due to changes in nascent pore size or to changes in stability, we developed an approach that uses nanodiscs and planar lipid bilayer electrophysiology to afford microsecond resolution at the single event level. Both pore size and stability were affected by SNARE copy number. Increasing the number of vesicle (v)-SNAREs per nanodisc from three to five caused a twofold increase in pore size and decreased the rate of pore closure by more than three orders of magnitude. Moreover, pairing of v-SNAREs and target (t)-SNAREs to form trans-SNARE complexes was highly dynamic: flickering nascent pores closed upon addition of a v-SNARE fragment, revealing that the fully assembled, stable SNARE complex does not form at this stage of exocytosis. Finally, a deletion at the base of the SNARE complex, which mimics the action of botulinum neurotoxin A, markedly reduced fusion pore stability. In summary, trans-SNARE complexes are dynamic, and the number of SNAREs recruited to drive fusion determines fundamental properties of individual pores.
Chilling causes perivitelline granule formation in activated zebrafish oocytes.

Abstract Chilling sensitivity in oocytes of the zebrafish represents a potential obstacle to their successful cryopreservation. Here, we report the first cryomicroscopic observations of the response of zebrafish oocytes to chilling conditions. In activated stage V oocytes that had been exposed to hypothermic temperatures, we observed a latent effect of chilling, manifesting as a granular precipitate that appeared in the perivitelline fluid upon return to 28.5 °C. The granules were visible in unstained oocytes under transmitted light microscopy, and the resulting perivitelline turbidity increased in a dose-dependent manner with decreasing chilling temperature (p
Diversity and Global Learning

For our students engaging with the performing arts, pedagogies of self-reflection, cultural competence, dialogue, and empathy are imperative to providing the appropriate context for the politics of performative representation. It is our responsibility to ensure that we take the necessary steps to evolve curriculum in pace with the diversity of our cultural realities. Julius Bailey has students explore philosophical approaches to diversity through hip hop music, building bridges between popular culture and critical race philosophies. Michelle Hayford and Katie O’Leary work with college students to facilitate a summer theatre camp for youth with autism spectrum disorder. The mutual exchange that occurs during the summer camp exemplifies the imperative of diverse learning communities that expose students to life experiences, identities, and worldviews divergent from their own.
Surface Effects on the Magnetic Behavior of Nanocrystalline Nickel Ferrites: The Effect of Surface Roughness and Dilution

The paper describes the surface roughness and dilution effects on the magnetic behavior of nanocrystalline nickel ferrites studied by SQUID magnetometer. Two different kinds of measurements were performed: (a) zero-field cooling (ZFC) and field cooling (FC) magnetization versus temperature and (b) magnetization as a function of the applied field. The analysis of magnetic measurements indicate that while the superparamagnetic behavior is retained by nanocrystalline ferrites of different surface roughness (0.8-1.8 nm) at 300K, the hysteresis loop at 2K becomes non-squared and the coercivity increases with increase in surface roughness. This behavior is discussed in terms of broken bonds and degree of surface spin disorder. In diluted dispersion systems containing 10-40% nickel ferrite in a polyethylene matrix, the interparticle attractions continue to be dominant even when the concentration of nickel ferrite is 10 wt.% in the diluted system. The general magnetic behavior of diluted dispersion system is similar to the undiluted system; however, coercivity, remanence, and saturation magnetization are altered. These changes in the magnetic data are ascribed to magnetization interactions that encourage flux closure configuration.
Implementation of an Enhanced Flux Formulation for Unsteady Navier-Stokes Solutions

Preconditioned time-marching CFD methods have become established as an accurate and efficient framework for all Mach numbers [1]. However, unsteady solution efficiency and accuracy suffer when the combination of low Mach numbers and high Strouhal numbers is encountered, especially in the context of high-fidelity turbulent and/or acoustics problems [1]. To counter this difficulty, an improved discrete formulation that is valid for all steady and unsteady regimes was proposed in an earlier article [2] for structured central-differenced algorithms. In this article, we further extend the modified approach to unstructured finite-volume formulations with implicit relaxation and test it for accurately resolving turbulence dynamics using a second-order discretization framework.
Thrombolytic Utilization in Ischemic Stroke Is Significantly Higher in US Hospitals with Neurology Residency Program (IN7-1.006)

OBJECTIVE: Compare tPA for stroke utilization in hospitals with Neurology residency (NR) to non-teaching (NT) and other teaching hospitals (TH). BACKGROUND: Neurology residency programs may influence the frequency of tPA use among teaching hospitals. DESIGN/METHODS: All US NR programs listed on the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education website and the affiliated hospitals from individual program website were screened and cross-matched to hospitals sampled in Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) for years 2000-2010. States suppressing hospital identification in NIS (38% of all) were excluded due to inability to ascertain NR hospitals. Ischemic stroke cases and tPA use were identified by ICD-9 codes. We conducted complex sample analysis using discharge weights to calculate population estimates. RESULTS: 6,064 hospital samples with 671,549 unweighted ischemic stroke cases were included: 10.7%, 30.3% and 60.0% were treated at NR, TH, and NT respectively. Overall tPA rate was 2.1 ± 0.1(SE)% over the 11 year study period. The tPA rate at NR (3.8 ± 0.3%) was higher compared to TH (2.4 ± 0.1%, p CONCLUSIONS: Stroke care at NR hospitals is associated with an increased thrombolytic utilization rate. The increased tPA utilization at NR between 2002-2006 may be related to the rapid increase in Primary Stroke Centers across the country. Disclosure: Dr. Moradiya has nothing to disclose. Dr. Grant has nothing to disclose. Dr. Valsamis has nothing to disclose. Dr. Levine has received personal compensation in an editorical capacity for MEDLINK.
Claims and evidence in design research

Design as a human approach of innovation and change is increasingly growing in attention and recognition. It seems as if any approach of inquiry and action also inspires attempts of improvement. This means that at the same time as an approach is accepted as fundamentally useful, researchers and practitioners start to explore how to change and improve the approach. Today we can see a lot of efforts aiming at improving design as a valuable approach of innovation and change by supporting practicing designers with new theories, models, methods, and tools for design. In this presentation I will examine and discuss what it means to improve design. Many questions emerge when attempts are made to improve design, for instance, are there different types of improvements, how can we measure the success of improvement, how do we know that theories and models produced by design research are valuable and can deliver in the intended way. I will also discuss what the notions of claims and evidence might mean in this kind of design research.
EOSINOPHILIC ESOPHAGITIS IN A PATIENT WITH VIGOROUS ACHALASIA

Abstract A patient with vigorous achalasia is presented who had marked smooth muscle hypertrophy and eosinophilic infiltration of the esophagus identical to that seen in patients with eosinophilic gastroenteritis. Eosinophilic infiltration of the esophagus probably represents a variant of the eosinophilic gastroenteritis syndrome and may predispose to an esophageal motor disorder.
Effect of Seawater Quality on Biomass and Hydrogen Photoproduction by a Marine Blue-Green Alga Oscillatoria sp. (Miami BG 7)

The advantages of “bioconversion of solar energy to hydrogen” in sea water based systems are numerous and have been discussed previously (Mitsui, Kumazawa 1977). When one considers the possible world wide application of this system, the most important question to be answered is how will the regional and seasonal variations in natural sea water quality influence the high biomass yield and hydrogen production activity obtained in the laboratory in an artificial seawater medium (Kumazawa, Mitsui 1981, Phlips, Mitsui 1983, Mitsui et al 1983). In order to answer this question, a study was made on the effects of such variations in natural seawater as salinity, pH and tracemetal concentration on biomass yield and hydrogen production capability in a marine blue-green alga Oscillatoria sp. Miami BG 7.
Archives of Labor: Working-Class Women and Literary Culture in the Antebellum United States

In her book, Lori Merish examines white workingwomen’s discursive and literary authority across a wide range of texts that includes pamphlets, factory women’s periodicals, poetry, popular fiction a...
Airway innate lymphoid cells in the induction and regulation of allergy

The recent discovery of innate lymphoid cells has revolutionized our understanding of the pathogenesis of immune diseases including allergy and asthma. Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are a heterogeneous collection of lymphocytes that lack antigen-specificity (non-T, non-B cells) and potently produce characteristic cytokines of T cell subsets (Th1, Th2, Th17). ILCs are divided into group 1 (ILC1s), group 2 (ILC2s), or group 3 (ILC3s). Similar to Th2 cells, ILC2s produce IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13, among others, and are present in increased numbers in samples from patients with many allergic disorders including asthma and chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). Animal models have identified that ILC2s contribute to eosinophilic tissue infiltration, airway hyperresponsiveness, mucus production, as well as coordinate adaptive immune responses. Finally, recent studies support regulation of ILC2s by neuro-immune mechanisms as well as demonstrate a significant degree of plasticity between ILC subsets that may impact the immune responses in asthma and allergic airway diseases. Here, we review the current literature on ILC2s in human asthma and allergic airway diseases, as well as highlight some recent mechanistic insights into ILC2 function from in vitro studies and in vivo animal models.
Novel Design for Simultaneous Production of Biodiesel and Glycerol Carbonate from Soybean Oil

Glycerol is the byproduct of biodiesel production plants. The rapid increase of biodiesel production and demand has resulted in excessive glycerol supply in the market. Converting the cheap glycerol into high-value glycerol carbonate (GC) is a potentially valuable solution to the current worldwide excessive glycerol supply. In this paper, a novel process for simultaneous production of biodiesel and GC (SBDG meanwhile, the byproduct of GC production, methanol, is recycled as the feedstock of the biodiesel production. Second, the optimization of the columns duties has been performed via thermal analysis analyzing the Column Grand Composite Curves (CGCC). In addition, a mathematic model for the heat integration of the SBD&...
Miscarriage chromosome testing: Indications, benefits and methodologies.

Abstract Rapid advances in genomics have expanded the use of chromosome testing following miscarriage. In addition to conventional cytogenetics, the availability of single nucleotide polymorphism microarray technology and array comparative geneomic hybridization have provided further options for clinicians. This review will cover the indications for testing and the advantages/disadvantages of the various methodologies available.
Corruption and the Budget: Problems and Solutions

Corruption affects and distorts what should be arms’ length, or objective and unbiased, relationships between government officials and private sector individuals. Through the payment of bribes, some individuals succeed in getting favorable treatment in their economic activities from public officials. Such a treatment can either reduce the costs for the economic activities in which the individuals are engaged or it can create new opportunities for them that are not available to others. Acts of corruption may be initiated either by private individuals or by government officials. When it is the latter, they may offer favorable treatment in exchange for a bribe or some other favor. When this happens, corruption disrupts the competitive situation that exists in the market and may give a competitive advantage to some individuals or enterprises.
Reproductive period and risk of dementia in a diverse cohort of health care members

Objective Women have >50% greater lifetime risk of dementia than men but the role of female-specific endocrine milieu is not well-understood. This study evaluates associations between indicators of estrogen exposure from women9s reproductive period and dementia risk in a large diverse population. Methods We evaluated 15,754 female members (29.9% nonwhite) of Kaiser Permanente with clinical examinations and health survey data from 1964 to 1973 and were members as of January 1, 1996. In midlife (mean age 51.1 years), women reported age at menarche and menopause and hysterectomy status. Reproductive span was calculated as menopause age minus menarche age. Dementia diagnoses were abstracted from January 1, 1996 to September 30, 2017 medical records (mean age at start of dementia follow-up 76.5 years). Cox proportional hazard models evaluated associations between aspects of reproductive span and dementia risk adjusting for demographics and life course health indicators. Results Forty-two percent of women developed dementia. Compared to menarche at age 13.0 (mean menarche age), menarche at ≥16 was associated with 23% greater dementia risk (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 1.23; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01–1.50) adjusting for demographics and life course health indicators. Natural menopause at age Conclusion In this large prospective cohort study, endocrine events signaling less estradiol exposure (i.e., later age at menarche, younger age at menopause, shorter reproductive span, and hysterectomies) were associated with elevated risk of dementia.
Efficient C1 Elongation by Reversing α-Oxidation.

Single carbon (C1) feedstocks are attractive for bioconversion, but native C1 assimilation pathways are difficult to engineer. Chou et al. developed a novel process for elongating the C1 compound formyl-CoA. Besides demonstrating a new approach for C1 bioconversion, this work paves the way for engineering synthetic methylotrophy into chassis organisms.
Taking on the tide [Designs on tidal turbines]

Before commercialisation, a tidal generator's design must be spot on. Here's how the latest software models can help.
Varied movement errors drive learning of dynamic balance control during walking in people with incomplete spinal cord injury: a pilot study

The purpose of this study was to determine whether the application of a varied pelvis perturbation force would improve dynamic balance control and gait stability of people with incomplete spinal cord injury (iSCI). Fourteen participants with iSCI completed the test in two conditions, i.e., walking paired with pelvis perturbation force and treadmill walking only, with 1-week interval in between. The order of the testing condition was randomized across participants. For the pelvis pertubation condition, subjects walked on a treadmill with no force for 1 min, with a varied pelvis perturbation force that was bilaterally applied in the medial–lateral direction for 10 min, without force for 1 min, and then with the perturbation for another 10 min after a sitting break. For the treadmill only condition, a protocol that was similar to the perturbation condition was used but no force was applied. Margin of stability (MoS), weight shifting, and other spatiotemporal gait parameters were calculated. Compared to treadmill training only, participants showed significant smaller MoS and double-leg support time after treadmill walking with pelvis perturbation. In addition, participants showed significantly greater improvements in overground walking speed after treadmill walking with pelvis perturbation than treadmill only (p = 0.021). Results from this study suggest that applying a varied pelvis perturbation force during treadmill walking could improve dynamic balance control in people with iSCI, which could be transferred to overground walking. These findings may be used to develop a new intervention to improve balance and walking function in people with iSCI.
Entwicklung multimedialer Anwendungen bei der IBM

Diese Abhandlung soll zum einen einen Uberblick uber die wesentlichen Funktionen der IBM Multimedia Hard- und Software geben. Zum anderen wird eine Firmenprasentation beschrieben, welche einige der Multimedia-Komponenten nutzt. Den Schlus bildet ein Ausblick in den Bereich Ausbildung, der Ideen und Anregungen vermittelt, wie auf der Basis der Multimedia- Funktionen neue Ausbildungskonzepte denkbar werden.
Localization of deformation in fluid-saturated sandstone

Abstract A laboratory study of inelastic deformation and localization was conducted to evaluate microseismicity and fracture in fluid-saturated rock. Plane strain compression experiments were performed on oil- and water-saturated Berea sandstone under dry, drained, undrained, and quasi-unjacketed conditions. Parameters associated with the elastic and inelastic material response were accurately measured and used in a constitutive model to predict localization of deformation under the drained and undrained conditions. Acoustic emission (AE) activity was recorded and the onset of inelastic response in fluid-saturated rock, similar to dry rock, coincided with an increase in AE rate. Fracture initiation and propagation were successfully monitored by AE locations. Clustering of AE events and the start of inhomogeneous deformation inferred from displacement measurements are shown to be well correlated with the model prediction of the onset of localized deformation under various rock-fluid interaction conditions.
Type III-A CRISPR systems as a versatile gene knockdown technology

Abstract CRISPR-Cas systems are functionally diverse prokaryotic anti-viral defense systems, which encompass six distinct types (I-VI) that each encode different effector Cas nucleases with distinct nucleic acid cleavage specificities. By harnessing the unique attributes of the various CRISPR-Cas systems, a range of innovative CRISPR-based DNA and RNA targeting tools and technologies have been developed. Here, we exploit the ability of type III-A CRISPR-Cas systems to carry out RNA-guided and sequence-specific target RNA cleavage for establishment of research tools for post-transcriptional control of gene expression. Type III-A systems from three bacterial species (L. lactis, S. epidermidis and S. thermophilus) were each expressed on a single plasmid in E. coli and the efficiency and specificity of gene knockdown was assessed by Northern blot analysis. We show that engineered type III-A modules can be programmed using tailored CRISPR RNAs to efficiently knock down gene expression of both coding and non-coding RNAs in vivo. Moreover, simultaneous degradation of multiple cellular mRNA transcripts can be directed by utilizing a CRISPR array expressing corresponding gene-targeting crRNAs. Our results demonstrate the utility of distinct type III-A modules to serve as effective gene knockdown platforms in heterologous cells. This transcriptome engineering technology has the potential to be further refined and exploited for key applications including gene discovery and gene pathway analyses in additional prokaryotic and perhaps eukaryotic cells and organisms.
Molecular Targeting of HuR Oncoprotein Suppresses MITF and Induces Apoptosis in Melanoma Cells.

Background: Treatment of metastatic melanoma possesses challenges due to drug resistance and metastases. Recent advances in targeted therapy and immunotherapy have shown clinical benefits in melanoma patients with increased survival. However, a subset of patients who initially respond to targeted therapy relapse and succumb to the disease. Therefore, efforts to identify new therapeutic targets are underway. Due to its role in stabilizing several oncoproteins’ mRNA, the human antigen R (HuR) has been shown as a promising molecular target for cancer therapy. However, little is known about its potential role in melanoma treatment. Methods: In this study, we tested the impact of siRNA-mediated gene silencing of HuR in human melanoma (MeWo, A375) and normal melanocyte cells in vitro. Cells were treated with HuR siRNA encapsulated in a lipid nanoparticle (NP) either alone or in combination with MEK inhibitor (U0126) and subjected to cell viability, cell-cycle, apoptosis, Western blotting, and cell migration and invasion assays. Cells that were untreated or treated with control siRNA-NP (C-NP) were included as controls. Results: HuR-NP treatment significantly reduced the expression of HuR and HuR-regulated oncoproteins, induced G1 cell cycle arrest, activated apoptosis signaling cascade, and mitigated melanoma cells’ aggressiveness while sparing normal melanocytes. Furthermore, we demonstrated that HuR-NP treatment significantly reduced the expression of the microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) in both MeWo and MITF-overexpressing MeWo cells (p < 0.05). Finally, combining HuR-NP with U0126 resulted in synergistic antitumor activity against MeWo cells (p < 0.01). Conclusion: HuR-NP exhibited antitumor activity in melanoma cells independent of their oncogenic B-RAF mutational status. Additionally, combinatorial therapy incorporating MEK inhibitor holds promise in overriding MITF-mediated drug resistance in melanoma.
Evaluating person-centered factors associated with brain-computer interface access to a commercial augmentative and alternative communication paradigm.

Current BCI-AAC systems largely utilize custom-made software and displays that may be unfamiliar to AAC stakeholders. Further, there is limited information available exploring the heterogenous prof...
Functional MRI Correlates of Sleep Quality in HIV

Objective To examine resting-state functional MRI (rs-fMRI) networks related to sleep in the context of HIV infection. Methods rs-fMRI data were collected in 40 HIV-infected (HIV+) individuals at baseline (treatment-naive), 12 week (post-treatment) and one year timepoints. A group of 50 age-matched HIV-negative (HIV-) individuals were also imaged at baseline and one year timepoints. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) questionnaire was administered at all timepoints. Using group independent component analysis (ICA), maps of functional networks were generated from fMRI data; from these, sleep-related networks were selected. A generalized linear model (GLM) was used to analyze if these networks were significantly associated with the PSQI score, and if this relationship was influenced by HIV status/treatment or timepoint. Results HIV+ individuals had significantly lower PSQI score after treatment (p=0.022). Networks extracted from group ICA analysis included the anterior and posterior default mode network (DMN), central executive network (CEN), bilateral frontoparietal networks (FPNs), and the anterior cingulate cortex salience network (ACC SN). We found the posterior DMN, right FPN, and ACC SN GLMs showed significantly higher goodness-of-fit after incorporating PSQI data (p = 0.0204, 0.044, 0.044, respectively). Furthermore, the correlation between ACC SN and posterior DMN connectivity was significantly decreased in the HIV+ cohort. Conclusion Functional networks such as the DMN, FPN, CEN, and ACC SN are altered in poor sleep, as measured by the PSQI score. Furthermore, the relationship between these networks and PSQI is different in the HIV+ and HIV- populations.
Association Between Variants in Calcineurin Inhibitor Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Genes and Renal Dysfunction in Adult Heart Transplant Recipients

Background: The goal of the study was to assess the relationship between single nucleotide variants (SNVs) in calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic genes and renal dysfunction in adult heart transplant (HTx) recipients. Methods: This retrospective analysis included N = 192 patients receiving a CNI at 1-year post-HTx. Using a candidate gene approach, 93 SNVs in eight pharmacokinetic and 35 pharmacodynamic genes were chosen for investigation. The primary outcome was renal dysfunction 1-year after HTx, defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) A and phospholipase C beta 1 (PLCB1) rs170549 G > A] were significantly associated with renal dysfunction after accounting for a false discovery rate (FDR) of 20%. In a multiple-SNV adjusted model, variant A allele carriers of TGFB1 rs4803455 had lower odds of renal dysfunction compared to C/C homozygotes [odds ratio (OR) 0.28, 95% CI 0.12-0.62; p = 0.002], whereas PLCB1 rs170549 variant A allele carriers had higher odds of the primary outcome vs. patients with the G/G genotype (OR 2.66, 95% CI 1.21-5.84, p = 0.015). Conclusion: Our data suggest that genetic variation in TGFB1 and PLCB1 may contribute to the occurrence of renal dysfunction in HTx recipients receiving CNIs. Pharmacogenetic markers, such as TGFB1 rs4803455 and PLCB1 rs170549, could help identify patients at increased risk of CNI-associated renal dysfunction following HTx, potentially allowing clinicians to provide more precise and personalized care to this population.
An 80-Year-Old Man With Persistent Enterococcus faecalis Bacteremia.

Case Presentation An 80-year old man presented to the ED after being found down in his home. He had gone to the restroom to perform straight catheterization, as he normally does for his enlarged prostate, and was found slumped over and confused. On arrival to the ED, he was found to be in atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response, febrile, and hypotensive. CT imaging of his head, chest, and abdomen-pelvis was obtained. He was started on broad-spectrum antibiotics and norepinephrine infusion for presumed urinary septic shock and admitted to the medical critical care unit for further management.
Foreign Official Demand for U.S. Debt and U.S. Interest Rates: Accounting for Global Common Factors

Previous estimates of the impact of foreign official demand for U.S. Treasuries (USTs) on U.S. Treasury yields control for domestic conditions only. Yet global cyclical factors jointly shape U.S. yields and foreign demand for USTs. This paper recovers global factors from the cross-section of advanced economy sovereign bond yields, and shows that the impact of foreign official UST demand on U.S. 10-year yields is understated -- often by 50% -- when global factors are omitted. This understatement arises from the cyclical nature of UST accumulation by foreign officials, who buy (sell) USTs when safe asset yields are rising (falling) globally. Structural VAR evidence suggests that U.S. yields are particularly sensitive to official demand linked to China.