cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Reactions of Nitrogen Oxides with Heme Models. Characterization of NO and NO2 Dissociation from Fe(TPP)(NO2)(NO) by Flash Photolysis and Rapid Dilution Techniques: Fe(TPP)(NO2) as an Unstable Intermediate

Described are studies directed toward elucidating the controversial chemistry relating to the solution phase reactions of nitric oxide with the iron(II) porphyrin complex Fe(TPP)(NO) (1, TPP = meso-tetraphenylporphinato2-). The only reaction observable with clean NO is the formation of the diamagnetic dinitrosyl species Fe(TPP)(NO)2 (2), and this is seen only at low temperatures (K(1) < 3 M(-1) at ambient temperature). However, 1 does readily react reversibly with N2O3 in the presence of excess NO to give the nitro nitrosyl complex Fe(TPP)(NO2)(NO) (3), suggesting that previous claims that 1 promotes NO disproportionation to give 3 may have been compromised by traces of air in the nitric oxide sources. It is also noted that 3 undergoes reversible loss of NO to give the elusive nitro species Fe(TPP)(NO2) (4), which has been implicated as a powerful oxygen atom transfer agent in reactions with various substrates. Furthermore, in the presence of excess NO2, the latter undergoes oxidation to the stable nitrato analogue Fe(TPP)(NO3) (5). Owing to such reactivity of Fe(TPP)(NO2), flash photolysis and stopped-flow kinetics rather than static techniques were necessary for the accurate measurement of dissociation equilibria characteristic of Fe(TPP)(NO2)(NO) in 298 K toluene solution. Flash photolysis of 3 resulted in competitive NO2 and NO dissociation to give Fe(TPP)(NO) and Fe(TPP)(NO2), respectively. The rate constant for the reaction of 1 with N2O3 to generate Fe(TPP)(NO2)(NO) was determined to be 1.8 x 10(6) M(-1) s(-1), and that for the NO reaction with 4 was similarly determined to be 4.2 x 10(5) M(-1) s(-1). Stopped-flow rapid dilution techniques were used to determine the rate constant for NO dissociation from 3 as 2.6 s(-1). The rapid dilution experiments also demonstrated that Fe(TPP)(NO2) readily undergoes further oxidation to give Fe(TPP)(NO3). The mechanistic implications of these observations are discussed, and it is suggested that NO2 liberated spontaneously from Fe(P)(NO2) may play a role in an important oxidative process involving this elusive species.
An expert system approach to fracture mechanics

Abstract The usefulness of an arificial intelligence approach to some deterministic problems is discussed. An expert system approach to fracture mechanics problems is devised. Production rules for a simple expert system for crack tip mesh mapping are given. The knowledge acquisition process described in the references is used. Linear 2D fracture problems can be solved by the given program, though the methodology would be similar for non-linear or 3D problems.
Chick kidney ferredoxin: Complementary DNA cloning and vitamin D effects on mRNA levels

Abstract Vertebrate ferredoxin is non-heme iron-sulfur protein found in steroideogenic tissues that serves as an electron shuttle in mitochondrial mixed function oxidase systems such as the 25-hydroxyvitamin D3-1α-hydroxylase. A 2530-bp chick kidney ferredoxin cDNA was cloned, and the association between ferredoxin mRNA levels and the regulation of 1α-hydroxylase activity by vitamin D status was examined. The cDNA sequence indicates that the chick kidney mitochondrial mixed function oxidases use the same ferredoxin as do those in the chick testis and that the chick ferredoxin shares greater than 92% amino acid homology with mammalian ferredoxins. Southern blot analysis of genomic DNA indicates that there is a single copy of the ferredoxin gene present in the chick genome. Three species of mRNA, 1.8, 3.5 and 5.5 kb, were identified by Northern analysis. Slot blot analysis of poly A+ RNA from kidneys of vitamin D-deficient or -replete chicks indicates a 40% induction of ferredoxin message levels in the vitamin D-deficient chick kidney. This suggests that gene regulation of ferredoxin may be part of the mechanism of regulation for 25-hydroxyvitamin D3-1α-hydroxylase activity in the chick kidney.
Driving by the Seat of Your Pants A Vibrotactile Navigation Study

Vibrotactile navigation systems can provide drivers with directional information while reducing annoyance from a voice that interrupts on-going music and conversations. However, little is currently known regarding the working memory processes involved in utilizing vibrotactile navigation. Prior research has demonstrated that individuals differ in their sense of direction and ability to navigate and the working memory resources used to carry out the navigation task. Recent research has shown that vibrotactile cues can be used effectively to facilitate navigation while potentially reducing workload. The aim of this study is to examine impact of vibrotactile navigation systems on working memory. Specifically, the aim is to examine how they may differentially impact individuals based upon their sense of direction. It is predicted that the location based information provided by the vibrotactile navigation system may facilitate performance among individuals with a poor sense of direction – because it is not exp...
Influence of Pregneninolone and Pregnenolone on Spermatogenesis in Hypophysectomized Adult Rats.

SummaryPregnenolone is capable of maintaining spermatogenesis for at least 20 days following hypophysectomy. However, this steroid does not influence the seminal vesicles, since the loss in seminal vesicle weight simulates that observed in the hypophysectomized control. Pregnenolone therefore appears to be gametogenic in action.A single injection (10 mg) of pregnenolone did not influence uterine weight or the adrenal X-zone of the spayed mouse.Pregneninolone, which has been shown to exhibit androgenic activity, failed to maintain spermatogenesis in the hypophysectomized rat.
Retroviral Entry Mediated by Receptor Priming and Low pH Triggering of an Envelope Glycoprotein

Avian leukosis virus (ALV) has been used as a model system to understand the mechanism of pH-independent viral entry involving receptor-induced conformational changes in the viral envelope (Env) glycoprotein that lead to membrane fusion. Here, we report the unexpected finding that ALV entry depends on a critical low pH step that was overlooked when this virus was directly compared to the classical pH-dependent influenza A virus. In contrast to influenza A virus, receptor interaction plays an essential role in priming ALV Env for subsequent low pH triggering. Our results reveal a novel principle in viral entry, namely that receptor interaction can convert a pH-insensitive viral glycoprotein to a form that is responsive to low pH.
The ability of Escherichia coli O157:H7 to decrease its intracellular pH and resist the toxicity of acetic acid.

Batch cultures of Escherichia coli K-12 grew well in an anaerobic glucose medium at pH 5.9, but even small amounts of acetate (20 mM) inhibited growth and fermentation. E. coli O157:H7 was at least fourfold more resistant to acetate than K-12. Continuous cultures of E. coli K-12 (pH 5.9, dilution rate 0.085 h-1) did not wash out until the sodium acetate concentration in the input medium was 80 mM, whereas E. coli O157:H7 persisted until the sodium acetate concentration was 160 mM. E. coli K-12 cells accumulated as much as 500 mM acetate, but the intracellular acetate concentration of O157:H7 was never greater than 300 mM. Differences in acetate accumulation could be explained by intracellular pH and the transmembrane pH gradient (δpH). E. coli K-12 maintained a more or less constant δpH (intracellular pH 6.8), but E. coli O157:H7 let its δpH decrease from 0.9 to 0.2 units as sodium acetate was added to the medium. Sodium acetate increased the rate of glucose consumption, but there was little evidence to support the idea that acetate was creating a futile cycle of protons. Increases in glucose consumption rate could be explained by increases in D-lactate production and decreases in ATP production. Intracellular acetate was initially lower than the amount predicted by ApH, but intracellular acetate and δpH were in equilibrium when the external acetate concentrations were high. Based on these results, the acetate tolerance of O157:H7 can be explained by fundamental differences in metabolism and intracellular pH regulation. By decreasing the intracellular pH and producing large amounts of D-lactate, O157:H7 is able to decrease δpH and prevent toxic accumulations of intracellular acetate anion.
Matrix cracking in laminated composites under monotonic and cyclic loadings

An analytical model based on the internal state variable (ISV) concept and the strain energy method is proposed for characterizing the monotonic and cyclic response of laminated composites containing matrix cracks. A modified constitution is formulated for angle-ply laminates under general in-plane mechanical loading and constant temperature change. A monotonic matrix cracking criterion is developed for predicting the crack density in cross-ply laminates as a function of the applied laminate axial stress. An initial formulation for a cyclic matrix cracking criterion for cross-ply laminates is also discussed. For the monotonic loading case, a number of experimental data and well-known models are compared with the present study for validating the practical applicability of the ISV approach.
An Interpenetrated Framework Material with Hysteretic CO2 Uptake

A new, twofold interpenetrated metal―organic framework (MOF) material has been synthesized that demonstrates dramatic steps in the adsorption and hysteresis in the desorption of CO 2 . Measurement of the structure by powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) and pair distribution function (PDF) analysis indicates that structural changes upon CO 2 sorption most likely involve the interpenetrated frameworks moving with respect to each other.
Analyzing the multiple functions of stereotypical behavior for students with autism: implications for assessment and treatment

We studied behavioral functions associated with stereotypical responses for students with autism. In Study 1, analogue functional analyses (attention, demand, no-attention, and recreation conditions) were conducted for 5 students. Results suggested that stereotypy was multiply determined or occurred across all assessment conditions. For 2 students, stereotypy was associated with positive and negative reinforcement and the absence of environmental stimulation. For 2 other students, stereotypy occurred at high levels across all experimental conditions. For the 5th student, stereotypy was associated with negative reinforcement and the absence of environmental stimulation. In Study 2, the stereotypy of 1 student was further analyzed on a function-by-function basis. Within a concurrent-schedules procedure, alternative responses were taught to the student using functional communication training. The results of Study 2 showed that similar topographies of stereotypy, based on qualitatively different reinforcers, were reduced only when differential reinforcement contingencies for alternative forms of communication were implemented for specific response-reinforcer relations. Our results suggest that the causes of stereotypy for students with autism are complex and that the presumed association between response topography and behavioral function may be less important than previously realized.
Fatty Acid Composition and Oxidative Stability of Cold‐pressed Edible Seed Oils

ABSTRACT: This study was conducted to determine the fatty acid (FA) compositions and oxidative stabilities of cold-pressed cranberry, carrot, hemp, and caraway seed oils. The cold-pressed cranberry and hemp seed oils exhibited higher α-linolenic acid (18:3n-3) contents with levels of 22 and 19 g/100 g fatty acids, respectively. Cold-pressed carrot seed oil contained about 82% oleic acid and had the lowest total saturated fatty acids among all tested oils. Cold-pressed caraway seed oil had the greatest oxidative stability with an OSI value of 150 hours. In addition, cold-pressed carrot seed oil had the lightest color while hemp seed oil was the darkest among all the oils tested.
A highly-efficient RF polar transmitter using SiGe power amplifier and CMOS envelope-tracking amplifier for mobile WiMAX

This paper presents a large-signal envelope-tracking (ET) polar transmitter (TX) system with a monolithic cascode SiGe power amplifier (PA) for mobile WiMAX applications. The envelope amplifiers are designed in the TSMC 0.35µm SiGe BiCMOS technology and also with discrete components for comparisons. The entire polar TX system using the discrete envelope amplifier in measurement achieves the power-added efficiency (PAE) of 30% at the average output power of 18 dBm with the EVM of 5% for WiMAX 64QAM 10 MHz signal. The RF/analog/digital co-simulations of the entire polar TX system with the integrated CMOS envelope amplifier show similar linearity and efficiency performances when compared with the measurement results. Both the simulation and measurement data suggests our polar TX design achieves the highest PAE among the state-of-the-art Si-based OFDM polar TX systems reported in the literature.
British Foreign Capital Issues, 1865–1894

In the half-century before 1914 international capital movements Played a significant role in the development of the world economy. This paper—which is a prelude to a more comprehensive study—focuses upon the British experience. We will first present new annual series on British foreign capital issues for the period 1865–1894. Our analysis of their behavior is centered about the following questions. First, how did the volume of British foreign investment fluctuate during the latter part of the nineteenth century? Were there long swings in these capital movements? Second, how did the geographic distribution of British foreign investment change over time? Was there an increasing tendency to invest within the British Empire? How was the total volume of investment apportioned between the tropics and the temperate regions of recent settlement? Third, how was British foreign investment allocated among economic sectors? Did the industrial composition vary significantly among countries, continents, and climatic-ethnic regions? Finally, what types of enterprises were nourished by British capital? How did the shares vary among government, private and mixed—government and private—undertakings? We believe that our time series provide more reliable answers to these questions than do previously available data.
Republicanism and democratic injustice

Philip Pettit’s Republicanism: A Theory of Freedom and Government has provided a systematic basis for republican theory in the idea of freedom as non-domination. Can a pure republican view, which confines itself to the normative resources thus afforded, adequately address the full range of issues of social justice? This article argues that while there are many sorts of structural injustice with which a pure republican view can well cope, unfair disparities in political influence, of the kind that Rawls labeled failures of the ‘fair value’ of the equal political liberties, cannot be well addressed by a pure republican view. In arguing the point, the article assesses the reach not only of the core ideal of freedom as non-domination itself, but also of three further layers in Pettit’s republican theory: its suggestion that domination is to be minimized, its account of a set of institutions needed to restrict domination, and its requirement that, to prevent governments from having the power to act arbitrarily...
Estimation of structural reliability for Gaussian random fields

This research develops a stochastic analysis procedure for Gaussian random fields in structural reliability estimation using an orthogonal transform and a stochastic expansion with Latin Hypercube sampling. The efficiency of the current simulation procedure is achieved by combination of the Karhunen – Loeve transform with stochastic analysis of polynomial chaos expansion. The Karhunen – Loeve transform enables generation of random fields within the framework of Latin Hypercube sampling and dimensionality reduction of the random variables. The polynomial chaos expansion can reduce computational effort of uncertainty quantification in highly nonlinear engineering design applications. In order to show the applicability of the method, the material properties of a cantilever plate and a supercavitating torpedo are treated as random fields.
SEAM‐less post‐merger integration strategies: a cause for concern

Most merger and acquisition strategies are still dominated by financial analyses, legal considerations and power plays by dominant groups as individuals jockey for position and influence. Rather than focusing on the inherent dysfunctions that can emerge in the combined organization due to the informal power held by organizational members – low productivity, poor quality, reduced commitment, voluntary turnover, and related hidden costs and untapped potential – far too many companies seem to meander through the post‐combination integration process.
The role of changes in activity as a function of perceived available and expended energy in nonpharmacological treatment outcomes for ME/CFS†

Nonpharmacological interventions for myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) often emphasize gradual increases in activity to promote improvement in physical functioning and fatigue. The energy envelope theory may provide a framework for understanding the relationship between changes in activity level and outcomes for patients with ME/CFS. This study examined the relationship between energy envelope and changes in activity after nonpharmacological interventions in a sample of 44 adults with ME/CFS. Results showed that those who were within their energy envelope before treatment showed more improvement in physical functioning and fatigue compared with those outside of their energy envelope. These findings suggest that an assessment of perceived available and expended energy could help guide the development of individualized nonpharmacological interventions for people with ME/CFS.
Increased incidence of subacute lead perforation noted with one implantable cardioverter-defibrillator.

Background The rapid evolution of implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) leads has resulted in thinner active fixation leads. While these advances have made the leads more versatile, new configurations may be associated with unforeseen complications. Objective The purpose of this study was to determine the incidence of perforation and dislodgement of defibrillator leads in a single center in the year 2005. Methods All patients who underwent percutaneous ICD implantation at the Massachusetts General Hospital using an endocardial right ventricular lead were included in this study. The specific leads analyzed were the Riata (1580/1581 and 1590/1591, St. Jude Medical, St Paul, Minnesota, USA;) and Sprint Fidelis (6949–65, Medtronic, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA.). Information was collected retrospectively. Results A total of 130 Riata leads and 111 Sprint Fidelis leads were implanted at the Massachusetts General Hospital during this time period. A total of five lead perforations occurred in patients implanted with the Riata lead as compared with none with the Sprint Fidelis lead (3.8% vs. 0%, respectively; P Conclusions In 2005, at one institution, there were significantly more cardiac perforations and lead revisions with the Riata lead as compared with the Sprint Fidelis right ventricular defibrillator lead. Further data are required to determine whether certain lead characteristics are responsible for this observation.
High sensitivity detection of cancer in vivo using a dual-controlled activation fluorescent imaging probe based on H-dimer formation and pH activation

The key to improving the sensitivity of in vivo molecular imaging is to increase the target-to-background signal ratio (TBR). Optical imaging has a distinct advantage over other molecular imaging methods in that the fluorescent signal can be activated at the target thus reducing background signal. Previously, we found that H-dimer formation quenches fluorescence of xanthene fluorophores, and among these, TAMRA had the highest quenching ratio. Another approach to lowering background signal is to employ pH activation based on the photon-induced electron transfer (PeT) theory. We hypothesized that combining these two strategies could lead to greater quenching capacity than was possible with either probe alone. A pH-sensitive fluorophore, pHrodo or TAMRA was conjugated to the cancer targeting molecules, avidin (Av) and trastuzumab (Tra). As expected, both pHrodo and TAMRA formed H-dimers when conjugated to avidin or antibody and the dimerization resulted in efficient fluorescence quenching. In addition, pHrodo conjugated probes showed pH-dependent fluorescence activation. When the probes were used in an in vivo animal model, fluorescence endoscopy with Av-pHrodo depicted tumors with high TBR 1 h and 2 h after injection. Av-TAMRA also visualized tumors 1 h and 2 h after the injection, however, TBR was lower due to the background signal from non-specific binding 1 h after the injection as well as background fluorescence from the unbound agent. Thus, we demonstrate that a dual-controlled activatable optical probe based on the combination of H-dimer formation and pH activation can achieve high TBR at early time points during in vivo molecular imaging.
Understanding Latina and Latino College Choice: A Social Capital and Chain Migration Analysis

Through interviews and focus groups with 106 high school juniors and seniors, this research examined the college choice process for Latina and Latino students in the greater Los Angeles basin. Using chain migration theory within a social capital framework, the results indicated that as primarily first-generation college students, the students in this sample relied heavily on siblings, peers, relatives, and high school contacts for purposes of postsecondary planning and for creating a college consideration and application set.
Point centromeres contain more than a single centromere-specific Cse4 (CENP-A) nucleosome

Cse4 is the budding yeast homologue of CENP-A, a modified histone H3 that specifies the base of kinetochores in all eukaryotes. Budding yeast is unique in having only one kinetochore microtubule attachment site per centromere. The centromere is specified by CEN DNA, a sequence-specific binding complex (CBF3), and a Cse4-containing nucleosome. Here we compare the ratio of kinetochore proximal Cse4-GFP fluorescence at anaphase to several standards including purified EGFP molecules in vitro to generate a calibration curve for the copy number of GFP-fusion proteins. Our results yield a mean of ∼5 Cse4s, ∼3 inner kinetochore CBF3 complexes, and ∼20 outer kinetochore Ndc80 complexes. Our calibrated measurements increase 2.5–3-fold protein copy numbers at eukaryotic kinetochores based on previous ratio measurements assuming two Cse4s per budding yeast kinetochore. All approximately five Cse4s may be associated with the CEN nucleosome, but we show that a mean of three Cse4s could be located within flanking nucleosomes at random sites that differ between chromosomes.
Growth performance, carcass characteristics, and pork quality of pigs fed plum juice concentrate as a feed additive

ABSTRACT Yorkshire pigs (n = 32) were used to determine the influence of supplementation of plum juice concentrate (PJC) on growth and carcass and quality characteristics of pork. Pigs were sorted by weight and sex (n = 16 barrows, n = 16 gilts) and assigned to 16 pens with 2 pigs per pen. Pens were randomly allotted to 4 diets: 0 (control), 0.5, 1.0, or 3.0% PJC. During the feed trial, feed intake and weight gain were monitored every 14 d. Pigs were slaughtered at an average pen weight of 114 kg (group 1 = 84 d; group 2 = 98 d). Supplementation of PJC did not affect (P > 0.05) animal performance. Supplementation of PJC did not affect (P > 0.05) carcass characteristics. However, gilts had a larger loin muscle area (P = 0.02) and less fat at the 10th rib (P = 0.01) than barrows. Supplementing PJC had little effect on pork quality. However, pork from barrows produced less drip loss (P = 0.02) in comparison with gilts. In conclusion, supplementation of PJC up to 3.0% in the diet did not affect growing-finishing pig performance, carcass characteristics, or pork quality.
Decoupled energy-law preserving numerical schemes for the Cahn-Hilliard-Darcy system

We study two novel decoupled energy-law preserving and mass-conservative numerical schemes for solving the Cahn-Hilliard-Darcy system which models two-phase flow in porous medium or in a Hele–Shaw cell. In the first scheme, the velocity in the Cahn–Hilliard equation is treated explicitly so that the Darcy equation is completely decoupled from the Cahn–Hilliard equation. In the second scheme, an intermediate velocity is used in the Cahn–Hilliard equation which allows for the decoupling. We show that the first scheme preserves a discrete energy law with a time-step constraint, while the second scheme satisfies an energy law without any constraint and is unconditionally stable. Ample numerical experiments are performed to gauge the efficiency and robustness of our scheme.© 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq, 2015
Dextran sulfate precipitation and ultracentrifugation of lipoproteins from hypercholesterolemic dog serum

SUMMARY Dogs fed a diet containing butter, cholesterol, and thiouracil develop severe hypercholesterolemia. Both ap- and 8-lipoprotein cholesterol and phospholipid increase whereas these lipids in the a, fraction appear to decrease. Comparison of the dextran sulfate-precipitable lipoproteins with lipoprotein fractions obtained by ultracentrifugation at densities 1.019, 1.063, and 1.21 and with paper electrophoretograms reveals that the addition of low molecular weight dextran sulfate and calcium chloride to diluted hypercholesterolemic dog serum quantitatively prccipitates low-density lipoproteins. Paper electrophoresis revealed that t,he dextran sulfate-precipitable fraction contains both el- and &lipoproteins.
The conditioning effect of protest history on the emulation of nonviolent conflict

Violent domestic conflicts spread between countries via spillover effects and the desire to emulate events abroad. Herein, we extend this emulation logic to the potential for the contagion of nonvi...
Human Genetics and the Canine System

With constant advances in canine genomics, the dog has found a permanent position as a source of genetic information for the inheritance of morphologic traits and disease susceptibility. The modern domestic dog is not a typical model organism. They share our environment, our life-styles and often our food. In addition, they experience many of the same diseases that people do and are diagnosed and treated using the same medical procedures and pharmaceuticals. However, unlike humans, the purebred dog maintains a highly structured population organization that, if used correctly, can simplify the genetics of complex traits and disorders. In this chapter, we will discuss the history of canine genomics along with recent advances in resource development. Specific examples will be provided to demonstrate strategies for using population stratification to the best advantage in mapping traits both simple and complex. Together, these data highlight the utility of the canine system for mapping traits and finding mutations important in both human and companion animal science.
Thermal Transport in Single-Layer MoS 2 and Black Phosphorus Transistors

Ballistic thermal conductance in single-layer MoS2 and black phosphorus (BP) is calculated based on the phonon dispersion. In single-layer MoS2, the ballistic thermal conductance is almost isotropic of a value of $10.7\times 10^{8}$ W/ $\text{m}^{2}\text{K}$ ; while in single-layer BP, the in-plane ballistic thermal conductance is anisotropic with a value of $12.8\times 10^{8}$ W/ $\text{m}^{2}\text{K}$ in the zigzag direction and $7.1\times 10^{8}$ W/ $\text{m}^{2}\text{K}$ in the armchair direction. Thermal transport behaviors at both steady state and transient state in double-gated MOSFET-like transistors with single-layer MoS2 and BP used as the channel material are studied. The conventional Fourier’s law with contact temperatures as the boundary conditions and modified boundary conditions that can capture quasi-ballistic phonon transport effects are used. The simulation results show that Fourier’s law with contact temperatures as the boundary conditions underestimate the peak temperature rise by 64% in single-layer MoS2 transistors and 56% in single-layer BP transistors when the channel length is comparable to the phonon mean free path. And the strong anisotropic thermal properties of single-layer BP lead to higher temperature rise in the armchair direction than that in the zigzag direction.
Obesogenic Cultural Drift and Nutritional Transition: Identifying Barriers to Healthier Food Consumption in Urban Native American Populations

Social ecology models applied to eating behaviors and health outcomes in low-income urban areas have focused on food deserts and other structural constraints to healthier eating. This study expands that work by identifying culturally specific constraints on food behaviors among low-income urban Native Americans. Exposure to commodities packages supplied by the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations has created a new conception of what is meant by “traditional food,” creating a barrier to change. However, this study identifies opportunities to expand the institutional role of urban Indian Centers, allowing for culturally sensitive interventions to mitigate the negative impacts of obesogenic cultural drift.
Application of a Clinic-Based Algorithm as a Tool to Identify Female Athletes at Risk for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury: A Prospective Cohort Study With a Nested, Matched Case-Control Analysis

Background:When landing from a jump, the production of increased intersegmental knee abduction moments and coupled valgus motions has been associated with an increased risk of suffering a noncontact anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in one study. This research has led to the development of a clinic-based algorithm that utilizes measures of knee valgus motion, knee flexion range of motion, body mass, tibial length, and quadriceps-to-hamstring strength ratio data to predict the probability of a high knee abduction moment (pKAM) when landing from a jump in female athletes. The ability of this algorithm to identify athletes at increased risk of suffering ACL injury has not been assessed.Hypothesis:The pKAM is associated with ACL injury in female athletes.Study Design:Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.Methods:This study was based on secondary analysis of data obtained from a previous investigation that focused on the use of the drop vertical jump (DVJ) test to assess the risk of ACL injury in fema...
Hydrogen Bonding in Low-Gap a-Si,Ge:H,F Superlattices

The integrated absorption of the Si-H, Ge-H and Si—H2 IR stretching modes were measured for three series of superlattices where: a) the well to barrier thickness ratio was kept constant while the period was varied; b) the barrier thickness was kept constant while the well thickness was varied and c) the well thickness was kept constant while the barrier thickness was varied. The dark (σd) and photo (σph) conductivities, the photoconductivity exponent γ and the activation energy of the dark conductivity Ea were measured perpendicularly to the plane of the layers for series a) and b). Structural changes induced by sandwiching were documented by IR absorption and correlated with the optoelectronic properties of the thin films.
Preliminary survey of freshwater Oligochaeta from selected districts in Tamil Nadu (India)

A qualitative survey of freshwater Oligochaeta was conducted in selected districts of Tamil Nadu, India, from October 2013 to June 2015. Thirteen taxa were recorded from a total of 1,915 specimens of freshwater Oligochaeta examined from various random samples. Out of the 13 taxa 10 were identified to the species level, two were identified to genus level and one only to subfamily level. These provided the first reports of Aulophorus furcatus, Dero digitata, D. zeylanica (Naididae) and Pristina breviseta (Pristinidae) for Villupuram, Bothrioneurum sp. (Tubificidae) for Nilagiri, and D. digitata and D. zeylanica for Thiruvannamalai districts. The Dero sp. recorded from Villupuram with four hair and four needle chaetae is uniquely different from the rest of the genus so far reported. The tubificid Limnodrilus hoffmeisteri was the most common and abundant and the only species found in the aquaria. Among the naidids, D. dorsalis was the most abundant species collected from Neithavayal pond (Minjur, Thiruvallur district).
A comparative analysis of the prevalence and characteristics of cervical malalignment in adults presenting with thoracolumbar spine deformity based on variations in treatment approach over 2 years

Characteristics specific to cervical deformity (CD) concomitant with adult thoracolumbar deformity (TLD) remains uncertain, particularly regarding treatment. This study identifies cervical malalignment prevalence following surgical and conservative TLD treatment through 2 years. Retrospective analysis of a prospective, multicenter adult spinal deformity (ASD) database. CD was defined in operative and non-operative ASD patients according to the following criteria: T1 Slope minus Cervical Lordosis (T1S-CL) ≥20°, C2–C7 Cervical Sagittal Vertical Axis (cSVA) ≥40 mm, C2–C7 kyphosis >10°. Differences in rates, demographics, health-related quality of life (HRQoL) scores for Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and Scoliosis Research Society Questionnaire (SRS-22r), and radiographic variables were assessed between treatment groups (Op vs. Non-Op) and follow-up periods (baseline, 1-year, 2-year). Three hundred and nineteen (200 Op, 199 Non-Op) ASD patients were analyzed. Op patients’ CD rates at 1 and 2 years were 78.9, and 63.0 %, respectively. Non-Op CD rates were 21.1 and 37.0 % at 1 and 2 years, respectively. T1S-CL mismatch and cSVA malalignment characterized Op CD at 1 and 2 years (p 0.05 for all), but at 2 years, Op CD patients had worse thoracic kyphosis (TK), T1S-CL, CL, cSVA, C2–T3 SVA, and global SVA compared to Non-Ops (p < 0.05). Op CD patients had worse ODI, and SRS Activity at 1 and 2 years post-operative (p < 0.05), but had greater 2-year SRS Satisfaction scores (p = 0.019). In the first study to compare cervical malalignment at extended follow-up between ASD treatments, CD rates rose overall through 2 years. TLD surgery, resulting in higher CD rates characterized by T1S-CL and cSVA malalignment, produced poorer HRQoL. This information can aid in treatment method decision-making when cervical deformity is present concomitant with TLD.
Request Modification in Synchronous Computer-Mediated Communication: The Role of Focused Instruction.

The pairing of telecollaboration and focused instruction can lead to measurable gains in second language learners' pragmatic competence (Belz & Vyatkina, , ; Vyatkina & Belz, ). This article examines speech act production in telecollaborative exchange, focusing on the requesting behavior of American learners of German for professional purposes as they interacted with German-speaking professionals in Germany via synchronous Web conferences. Drawing on quantitative and qualitative methods, the study investigated the effect of interaction with expert speakers and the implementation of focused instruction on learners' pragmatic development. Whereas quantitative analysis showed no change between experimental conditions, qualitative analysis of 4 learners' request production over the course of 4 online discussions revealed idiosyncratic developmental pathways and the emergence of a common strategy for managing participation in oral synchronous computer-mediated communication. The findings provide new insight regarding the nature of second language request production and confirm the utility of pragmatics instruction in telecollaboration. At the same time, the study calls for more refined analytical tools when investigating language development in extended telecollaborative discourse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Abstract A073: Carrier-free delivery of cytokine to specifically expand adoptively transferred T cells for enhanced cancer immunotherapy

Adoptive cell transfer (ACT) with autologous tumor-reactive T cells is a promising strategy in cancer immunotherapy, but treatment of solid tumors is limited by the rapid decline in function of the transplanted T cells. In order to maintain high numbers of viable antigen-specific cytotoxic T cells in tumors, co-administration of supporting immunostimulant agents together with transferred cells is often necessary in clinical practice. However, the high systemic doses of such agents needed to enhance T cell functionality can also result in serious side effects. Here, we developed a carrier-free strategy to deliver cytokines specifically to adoptively transferred T cells for cancer immunotherapy. IL2-Fc or an IL-15 superagonist were chemically crosslinked with a disulfide linker to form protein nanogels (NGs), which were conjugated to the plasma membrane of ACT T-cells. These NGs had exceptionally high loading of cytokines (~70 wt%) and released native protein in physiological conditions in a sustained manner through breakdown of the degradable disulfide linker in response to the activated T cell surface reduction activity. Cytokine-NGs were chemically conjugated onto the plasma membrane of donor T cells, enabling continuous pseudo-autocrine release of cytokine for stimulation of transferred CD8+ T cells. Transferred pmel-1 CD8+ T cells with optimized number of NGs conjugated per cell showed enhanced expansion and long persistence in B16F10 tumor bearing mice. Quantification of transferred Thy1.1+CD8+ T cells in tumors at Day 13 showed that T cells with conjugated cytokine-NGs expanded ~80 fold more than the T cells with systemically administered free cytokine. We demonstrated that the cytokine-NG-T cell conjugation strategy could augment transferred T-cell expansion efficiently and specifically in vivo, and thus improve the therapeutic efficacy. This T cell-NG “back pack” approach provides a readily generalizable strategy to provide autocrine protein drug support to donor cells to enhance the safety and efficacy of ACT. Citation Format: Li Tang, Yiran Zheng, Llian Mabardi, Darrell J. Irvine. Carrier-free delivery of cytokine to specifically expand adoptively transferred T cells for enhanced cancer immunotherapy. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the CRI-CIMT-EATI-AACR Inaugural International Cancer Immunotherapy Conference: Translating Science into Survival; September 16-19, 2015; New York, NY. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Immunol Res 2016;4(1 Suppl):Abstract nr A073.
Influence of Periodontal Therapy on Systemic Lipopolysaccharides in Children with Localized Aggressive Periodontitis.

Purpose A previous study has shown that children with localized aggressive periodontitis (LAP) demonstrate a lipopolysaccharide (LPS) hyper-responsiveness in addition to elevated levels of systemic LPS when compared to periodontally healthy children. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether periodontal therapy modulates systemic lipopolysaccharide levels and whether these levels may influence clinical outcomes. Methods Peripheral blood samples and clinical parameters (probing depth [PD], clinical attachment levels [CAL], percent sites greater than four mm, bleeding on probing [BoP], and visible plaque [P]) were collected from 29 LAP patients prior to and at three, six, and 12 months following scaling and root planning and systemic antibiotics. Serum LPS levels were quantified using a chromogenic assay. Results Twenty-five patients were compliant with the prescribed antibiotic treatment and demonstrated a significant reduction in LPS as well as overall PD, CAL, and plaque at all time points post-therapy. Additionally LPS reductions correlated with reductions in PD, CAL, and plaque. Conclusions Localized aggressive periodontitis therapy with antibiotics plays an important role in reducing systemic lipopolysaccharide levels. Since LPS is a key mediator of the LAP hyperinflammatory response, its systemic reduction is especially important for the successful management of these children.
Etiology of the Postprandial Increase in Lower Esophageal Sphincter Pressure: Evidence for Synergistic Control by Pancreatic Polypeptide and Vagal Influences

The mechanisms responsible for control of postprandial increase in lower esophageal sphincter pressure are unknown. The relative contributions of myogenic, neurogenic, and hormonal factors continue to be debated. Recent evidence has suggested that postprandial release of pancreatic polypeptide, as well as vagal influences, may play an important role in the postprandial increase in sphincter pressure [1, 2]. We undertook this study to determine the effect of truncal vagotomy on lower esophageal sphincter pressure (LESP) response to infusion of exogenous pancreatic polypeptide.
Hypoparathyroidism: Less Severe Hypocalcemia With Treatment With Vitamin D2 Compared With Calcitriol

Context Options for chronic treatment of hypoparathyroidism include calcitriol, recombinant human parathyroid hormone, and high-dose vitamin D (D2). D2 is used in a minority of patients because of fear of prolonged hypercalcemia and renal toxicity. There is a paucity of recent data about D2 use in hypoparathyroidism. Objective Compare renal function, hypercalcemia, and hypocalcemia in patients with hypoparathyroidism treated chronically with either D2 (D2 group) or calcitriol. Design, Setting, and Patients A retrospective study of patients with hypoparathyroidism treated at the University of Maryland Hospital. Participants were identified by a billing record search with diagnosis confirmed by chart review. Thirty patients were identified; 16 were treated chronically with D2, 14 with calcitriol. Data were extracted from medical records. Main Outcome Measures Serum creatinine and calcium, hospitalizations, and emergency department (ED) visits for hypercalcemia and hypocalcemia. Results D2 and calcitriol groups were similar in age (58.9 ± 16.7 vs 50.9 ± 22.6 years, P = 0.28), sex, and treatment duration (17.8 ± 14.2 vs 8.5 ± 4.4 years, P = 0.076). Hospitalization or ED visits for hypocalcemia occurred in none of the D2 group vs four of 14 in the calcitriol group (P = 0.03); three in the calcitriol group had multiple ED visits. There were no differences between D2 and calcitriol groups in hospitalizations or ED visits for hypercalcemia, serum creatinine or calcium, or kidney stones. Conclusion We found less morbidity from hypocalcemia in hypoparathyroid patients treated chronically with D2 compared with calcitriol and found no difference in renal function or morbidity from hypercalcemia. Treatment with D2 should be considered in patients with hypoparathyroidism, particularly in those who experience recurrent hypocalcemia.
Public information seeking, place-based risk messaging and wildfire preparedness in southern California

Southern California is a challenging environment for managing and adapting to wildland–urban interface fires. Previous research shows risk perception and information seeking are related and that public information dissemination influences locally specific risk perception and preparedness actions. Here, we examine relationships between residents’ wildfire knowledge and experience, readiness actions and media choice to determine how to integrate preparedness information and the recently developed Santa Ana Wildfire Threat Index into public information. Based on frequencies, means tests and correlations, we find television most frequently used for both daily news and wildfire information and that most people intend to seek information from the same sources in future fires. Wildfire knowledge, experience and past preparedness actions influence the number of sources from which respondents report seeking information. We note significant geographic differences in information sources used before and during wildfire, with higher percentages of residents in more rural areas relying on television, radio, Reverse 911, and friends and family for information during a wildfire. Findings support previous research results indicating sources considered trustworthy are not always considered the most up-to-date. Our findings support other empirical research recommending a multimedia, two-way communication model for event-based and readiness information supplemented with one-way sources like television.
Wavelets: a passing wave or a truly useful tool?

Wavelets are a new family of signal transformations. In a wavelet transform, the signal is decomposed in terms of dilates and translates of a single function, the mother wavelet. Wavelet transforms have a number of properties that can be exploited in many signal processing applications. These properties include an ability to trade time and frequency resolutions in a controlled manner, a relationship between the time behavior of a signal and the structure of its wavelet transform and compact representations for wide classes of deterministic and stochastic signals. This paper provides an overview of continuous and discrete wavelet transforms and reviews some of their applications.
A nutrient mediates intraspecific competition between rodent malaria parasites in vivo

Hosts are often infected with multiple strains of a single parasite species. Within-host competition between parasite strains can be intense and has implications for the evolution of traits that impact patient health, such as drug resistance and virulence. Yet the mechanistic basis of within-host competition is poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that a parasite nutrient, para-aminobenzoic acid (pABA), mediates competition between a drug resistant and drug susceptible strain of the malaria parasite, Plasmodium chabaudi We further show that increasing pABA supply to hosts infected with the resistant strain worsens disease and changes the relationship between parasite burden and pathology. Our experiments demonstrate that, even when there is profound top-down regulation (immunity), bottom-up regulation of pathogen populations can occur and that its importance may vary during an infection. The identification of resources that can be experimentally controlled opens up the opportunity to manipulate competitive interactions between parasites and hence their evolution.
An Empirical Study Investigating the Effectiveness of Decision Aids in Supporting the Sensemaking Process on Anonymous Social Media

Recent times have seen an increase in the usage of anonymous social media. This freedom of anonymity has led people to write posts neglecting the potential consequences of their actions. Moreover, such information could be unreliable. This study investigated the level of trust and confidence level when participants viewed posts written on an anonymous social media. Using a between-subjects experimental design, 189 participants completed the study. The independent variables were, attitude of the yaks: supporting and non-supporting yaks, and decision aid: no sign aid, positive aid for supporting/negative aid for non-supporting yaks and positive aid for non-supporting/negative aid for supporting yaks. We found that positive decision aid for supporting yaks improved the likelihood rating, trust, and confidence level when compared to negative decision aid. It was easier for the participants to accept positivity than negativity.