cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Identifying Where to Focus in Reading Comprehension for Neural Question Generation

A first step in the task of automatically generating questions for testing reading comprehension is to identify question-worthy sentences, i.e. sentences in a text passage that humans find it worthwhile to ask questions about. We propose a hierarchical neural sentence-level sequence tagging model for this task, which existing approaches to question generation have ignored. The approach is fully data-driven — with no sophisticated NLP pipelines or any hand-crafted rules/features — and compares favorably to a number of baselines when evaluated on the SQuAD data set. When incorporated into an existing neural question generation system, the resulting end-to-end system achieves state-of-the-art performance for paragraph-level question generation for reading comprehension.
Relationship between symptoms and quality of life in fecal incontinence.

Background Most measures of fecal incontinence (FI) severity assess the frequency of solid and liquid FI, but may incorporate other features. We compared two scales—the Fecal Incontinence Severity Score (FISS) and Fecal Incontinence Severity Index (FISI)—to determine which questionnaire and which individual questions predict FI Quality of Life (FIQOL). Methods A national sample of American adults completed a health questionnaire, and 234 with monthly FI were selected. Participants completed assessments of FI severity, FIQOL, and somatization. Stepwise linear regression models evaluated whether FISS and FISI total scores, or individual items on the FISS and FISI predicted FIQOL after adjusting for gender, age, income, and somatization (Brief Symptom Inventory-18). Key Results Reliable responses were provided by 186. Age was 49 years, and 52% were women. The mean FISS score was 8.4 (95% confidence interval [CI] 8.0-8.9, 13 questions) and mean FISI was 29.9 (95% CI 27.4-32.4, 62 questions), indicating moderate FI severity. The mean FIQOL was 2.6 (95% CI 2.4-2.7, 5 questions). Lower income, greater somatization, and total FISS and FISI scores explained 69% of FIQOL; and total FISS and FISI scores were independent predictors. On the FISS, frequency, amount, and urgency to defecate were independently associated with FIQOL. After adding somatization, all but amount remained significant. For the FISI scale, solid and liquid FI and gas were significant predictors, but adjusting for somatization excluded solid FI. Conclusions and Inferences Five variables independently explained FIQOL: overall frequency of FI, frequency of liquid and gas leakage, urgency, and somatization.
A Risk-Aware Access Control Framework for Cyber-Physical Systems

Cyber-physical systems (CPS) integrate cyber components into physical processes. This integration enhances the capabilities of physical systems by incorporating intelligence into objects and services. On the other hand, integration of cyber and physical components and interaction between them introduce new security threats. Since CPSs are mostly safety-critical systems, data stored and communicated in them are highly critical. Hence, there is an inevitable need for protecting the data and resources against unauthorized accesses. In this paper, we propose an access control (AC) framework to address CPS related security issues. The proposed framework consists of two parts: a cyber-physical access control model (CPAC) and a generalized action generation model (GAGM). CPAC utilizes an attribute based approach and extends it with cyber-physical components and cyber-physical interactions. GAGM is used to augment enforcement of authorization policies. We present formal representations of CPAC and GAGM, and provide a sample scenario for a medical CPS. We propose an algorithm for enforcing authorization policies.
The changing tides of Irish orthopaedic research.

Research is fundamental to bridging theory, practice and education in orthopaedics. Following the restructuring of the surgical training pathway in Ireland, the opportunity to undertake clinical- or lab-based research has fallen. Our aim was to investigate the trends of research in orthopaedics and the implications there. We reviewed the trend in publications by Irish trauma and orthopaedic (TO Injury 2005–2010 mean 3.6 vs. 2000–2005 mean 3.4 and 2010–2015 mean 2.2; IJMS 2010–2015 mean 4.4 vs. 2000–2010 mean 1.1. The number of Irish presentations at the BOA fell from a mean of 5 between 2000 and 2010 to a mean of 1.2 between 2011 and 2017. The rate of IOA abstract submissions compared over the same period has fallen by 21%. We also found that 4% of Irish orthopaedic publications in the IJMS were scientific in nature; this figure was 3.7% of publications in injury and 32.6% in JBJS (UK). There has been a significant decrease in publication rates by T&O trainees in high-quality journals. There has also been a notable decline in Irish representation at the BOA and a drop in the number of abstract submissions to the IOA. We suggest these findings coincide with the streamlining of surgical training in Ireland, which does not provide for the pursuit in research that is crucial to our practice as clinicians, to the future of our specialty and to the Irish orthopaedic representation internationally.
Selection of Secondary Structures of Heterotypic Supramolecular Peptide Assemblies by an Enzymatic Reaction

In a model study to investigate the consequence of reactions of intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs) of proteins in the context of the formation of highly ordered structures, we found that enzymatic reactions control the secondary structures of peptides during assembly. Specifically, phosphorylation of an α-helix-dominant peptide results in mostly disordered conformations, which become β-strand-dominant after enzymatic dephosphorylation to regenerate the peptide. In the presence of another peptide largely with a β-strand conformation, direct coassembly of the peptides results in amorphous aggregates consisting of α-helix and β-strand peptides, but the enzymatically generated peptide coassemblies (from the phosphopeptide) mainly adopt a β-strand conformation and form ordered structures (e.g., nanofibers). These results indicate that enzymatic dephosphorylation instructs conformationally flexible peptides to adopt thermodynamically favorable conformations in homotypic or heterotypic supramolecular assemblies.
Risk management policy and black-box warnings: a qualitative analysis of US FDA proceedings.

Background: The US FDA increasingly applies risk management to drug safety policy. Little is known about the process by which the FDA approves labelling changes. Although advisory committees can recommend any of the risk management tools, including the use of ’black-box warnings’, it is unknown whether they deliberate on these questions or how they apply the principles of risk minimization or management during their considerations of drug licensing. Objective: To examine the process by which risk management is considered by the FDA, including the role of FDA advisory committees. We also aimed to identify and describe drug labelling changes and additions, including the prevalence of black-box warnings. Methods: We electronically obtained publicly available information regarding drug approvals, drug revisions and advisory committee meetings over 3 years (2004–6) from the FDA. Data in the form of meeting transcripts and full histories of labelling changes were collected on drugs discussed by advisory committees. We then searched and qualitatively analysed the meeting transcripts to identify themes in the discussion. We also created a database of all prescription drug labelling changes for 3 years and examined which drugs have had the most changes. We describe the risk management consideration process and report the frequency and characteristics of labelling changes. Excerpts from the transcripts are selected to illustrate both typical and atypical features of the discussion. Findings: A total of 174 black-box changes were made in the 3-year period of our study, of which 77 were new black-box warnings and 97 were revisions in black-box warnings. Of 77 new black-box warning additions, only 11 drugs were discussed by the advisory committees. Of the 17 most frequently revised drug labels in these 3 years, two were discussed in the advisory committee meetings. Advisory meeting discussions revealed confusion about black-box warnings and emphasized potential consequences of the warnings rather than their content. Conclusion: The safety labelling of drugs on the market is changed often. Panels of advisors consider only a few drugs, rarely discuss the labelling requirements, and display confusion about applying black-box warnings. The creation and application of black-box warnings on prescription medications should receive closer attention from the FDA and its advisors.
Employer disability management strategies and other predictors of injury claims rates and costs: Analysis of employment-based long-term disability insurance claims

Problem: Recent research indicates that many injuries to workers are not job related and that more than half of these injuries are not compensable under Workers' Compensation. Prior research on predictors or risk factors for these injuries, and the determinants of their costs, is quite limited. Method: This study analyzes data on more than 1000 injury-related paid claims for long-term disability (LTD) benefits by workers in 271 U.S. firms. Multiple regression analyses are used to examine predictors of LTD injury claims rates and determinants of LTD benefit payments per claim. Results: Although less than 20% of these injuries are work related, employer characteristics (industry type, selected disability management practices, and recent exposure to layoffs) are significant predictors of injury claims rates. Availability and/or generosity of other disability income sources, such as Workers' Compensation and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), also impact on observed claims rates. Other strong predictors are the demographic and occupational mixes of employees. Cost per claim is also related to employer characteristics, employee characteristics, and the availability of other fringe benefits offered by the employer. Surprisingly, the level of benefits available under the employer's LTD policy does not have a detectable effect on claims rates. Impact on Industry: The importance of employer characteristics and policies, as predictors of claims rates and costs, suggests that occupational and nonoccupational injury risks may be strongly correlated. Programs to reduce the risks and costs of occupational injuries may also have important payoffs in terms of lower risks and costs for injuries to employees outside of the workplace.
Inelastic Scattering and Transfer Reactions Using Very Heavy Ions

The quasi-elastic population of discrete collective states with very heavy ions is a relatively unexplored area of nuclear physics. This is a consequence of the fact that standard experimental (charged-particle spectroscopy) and theoretical (DWBA) methods are not adequate for this problem. We may expect new features in such reactions which are not present in reactions with lighter ions or with non-collective nuclei. These unique features may be broadly separated into two categories: (1) the strong response of the collective modes allows the study of nuclear single-particle and correlation structure under the influence of multiple collective quanta; (2) strong collective excitation may lead to unique localizations in coordinates conjugate to quantum numbers which assume large values.
A Central Limit Effect for a Variety of Populations and the Influence of Population Moments

From each of two dozen populations varying widely in shape and skewness, empirical distributions of Z = (X-bar - ()/(N-1/2 were obtained for several sample sizes to investigate the approach of the sampling distribution of Z to a normal distribution. For..
Estimating the Effects of Institutional and Technological Changes Upon Agricultural Development: A Comparison of Multiple Regression and Programming Approaches

This paper owes its inception to a doctoral dissertation written by the junior author [1]. The dissertation itself is a substantive contribution to the knowledge available to Western scholars concerning agricultural development in Mainland China. However, it also raises some very interesting problems of conceptualization and measurement, and it is to these that we address ourselves here.
Concise Introduction to Linear Algebra

Concise Introduction to Linear Algebra deals with the subject of linear algebra, covering vectors and linear systems, vector spaces, orthogonality, determinants, eigenvalues and eigenvectors, singular value decomposition. It adopts an efficient approach to lead students from vectors, matrices quickly into more advanced topics including, LU decomposition, orthogonal decomposition, Least squares solutions, Gram-Schmidt process, eigenvalues and eigenvectors, diagonalizability, spectral decomposition, positive definite matrix, quadratic forms, singular value decompositions and principal component analysis. This book is designed for onesemester teaching to undergraduate students.
Circumvention Medical Tourism and Cutting Edge Medicine: The Case of Mitochondrial Replacement Therapy (The George P. Smith Lecture)

“Medical Tourism” is the travel of patients from a home country to a destination country for the primary purpose of receiving health care. “Circumvention Tourism” is a sub-type of such travel where the motivation is circumventing a domestic prohibition on accessing a medical service. This Article, adapted from the George P. Smith Lecture given at the University of Indiana's school of law, focuses on such circumvention tourism for cutting-edge medicine. I use the recently reported case of travel to Mexico for Mitochondrial Replacement Therapy as a springboard for examining the legal and ethical issues raised by the practice and to discuss restrictive regulation in place in the United States.
Abstract P225: Associations Between Sleep, Physical Activity and Blood Pressure Among Black Women: Baseline Results From the SisterTalk At Home Intervention for Weight Loss

Significance: Sleep is a key factor affecting hypertension and obesity, but limited evidence is available examining the relationship between sleep and predictors of hypertension/obesity (e.g. physi...
Statistical Microbuckling Propagation Model for Compressive Strength Prediction of Fiber-Reinforced Composites

Compressive strength prediction for a fiber-reinforced composite material still remains an unresolved topic when dealing with composites in the design process. Although significant scatter is present in the experimental data, experimental test results are the only criteria on which to base design parameters. Although significant advances have been accomplished recently by various modeling techniques, only quantitative comparison with experimental data may be realized. This quantitative comparison requires the use of a semi-empirical parameter into the model formulation, which is usually set as the fiber misalignment. By using a single value of the fiber misalignment within the composite, model predictions easily match the experimental data because of the extreme sensitivity of the model with respect to fiber misalignment. However, it is well known that there is not a unique value of fiber misalignment for all the fibers but rather a distribution of misalignments throughout the composite. In this paper, using the complete fiber misalignment distribution, stability theory is coupled with continuous damage mechanics to generate a model for compressive strength of continuous fiber-reinforced composites. Sample results are also presented showing the correlation of the analytical model with experimentally measured strengths.
Dose-Response Effect of a Digital Health Intervention During Cardiac Rehabilitation: Subanalysis of Randomized Controlled Trial.

Background: Previous data have validated the benefit of digital health interventions (DHIs) on weight loss in patients following acute coronary syndrome entering cardiac rehabilitation (CR). Objective: The primary purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that increased DHI use, as measured by individual log-ins, is associated with improved weight loss. Secondary analyses evaluated the association between log-ins and activity within the platform and exercise, dietary, and medication adherence. Methods: We obtained DHI data including active days, total log-ins, tasks completed, educational modules reviewed, medication adherence, and nonmonetary incentive points earned in patients undergoing standard CR following acute coronary syndrome. Linear regression followed by multivariable models were used to evaluate associations between DHI log-ins and weight loss or dietary adherence. Results: Participants (n=61) were 79% male (48/61) with mean age of 61.0 (SD 9.7) years. We found a significant positive association of total log-ins during CR with weight loss (r2=.10, P=.03). Educational modules viewed (r2=.11, P=.009) and tasks completed (r2=.10, P=.01) were positively significantly associated with weight loss, yet total log-ins were not significantly associated with differences in dietary adherence (r2=.05, P=.12) or improvements in minutes of exercise per week (r2=.03, P=.36). Conclusions: These data extend our previous findings and demonstrate increased DHI log-ins portend improved weight loss in patients undergoing CR after acute coronary syndrome. DHI adherence can potentially be monitored and used as a tool to selectively encourage patients to adhere to secondary prevention lifestyle modifications. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01883050); https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01883050
Clinical efficacy of tadalafil compared to sildenafil in treatment of moderate to severe canine pulmonary hypertension: a pilot study

Abstract Introduction Canine pulmonary hypertension (PH) is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Tadalafil, a phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor used commonly in humans with PH, has not been evaluated in a clinical trial in dogs with naturally occurring PH. Our objectives were to compare the efficacy of tadalafil and sildenafil on PH assessed by peak tricuspid regurgitant flow velocity, estimated systolic pulmonary arterial pressure gradient, voluntary activity, quality of life, and safety profiles in dogs with moderate to severe PH. Animals Twenty-three dogs with echocardiographic evidence of moderate to severe PH were enrolled. Methods A prospective short-term, randomized, double-blinded pilot study was carried out. Dogs with PH were randomly allocated to receive sildenafil or tadalafil for 2 weeks and assessed via echocardiography, activity monitors, and owner-reported outcomes. Results Collectively, phosphodiesterase-5 inhibition significantly decreased (improved) quality of life scores (p = 0.003) and visual analog score (p = 0.024) without significant between-treatment difference of these variables. Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibition did not significantly affect peak tricuspid regurgitant flow velocity (p = 0.056) or voluntary activity (p = 0.27). A total of 33% (7/21) of dogs experienced at least one adverse event during the study (tadalafil, n = 5; sildenafil, n = 2) with no significant difference between treatment type and incidence of adverse events (p = 0.36). Discussion In this pilot study, phosphodiesterase-5 inhibition led to apparent improvement in quality of life scores without documenting superiority of tadalafil over sildenafil. Conclusion Tadalafil at a dose of 2 mg/kg once daily appears to be a viable alternative to sildenafil in dogs with moderate to severe PH.
Determinants of cigarette smoking status in a national cohort of black and white adult ever smokers in the USA: a cross-sectional analysis of the REGARDS study

Objectives While awareness of cigarette smoking’s harmful effects has increased, determinants associated with smoking status remain understudied, including potential racial differences. We aim to examine factors associated with former versus current smoking status and assess whether these associations differed by race. Setting We performed a cross-sectional analysis using the population-based Reasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke(REGARDS)study. Outcome measures Logistic regression was used to calculate the OR of former smoking status compared with current smoking status with risk factors of interest. Race interactions were tested using multiplicative interaction terms. Results 16 463 participants reported smoking at least 100 cigarettes in their lifetime. Seventy-three per cent (n=12 067) self-reported former-smoker status. Physical activity (reference (REF) 3×/week: OR=1.26, 95% CI 1.11 to 1.43), adherence to Mediterranean diet (REF: low; medium: OR=1.46, 95% CI 1.27 to 1.67; high: OR=2.20, 95% CI 1.84 to 2.64), daily television viewing time (REF: >4 hours; Conclusion Efforts to promote tobacco cessation should consist of targeted behavioural interventions that incorporate racial differences.
Comprehensive assessment of side effects associated with a single dose of ketamine in treatment-resistant depression.

Abstract Background Concerns about ketamine for treating depression include abuse potential and the occurrence of psychotomimetic effects. This study sought to comprehensively assess side effects (SEs) associated with a single subanesthetic-dose intravenous ketamine infusion. A secondary aim was to examine the relationship between Clinician-Administered Dissociative States Scale (CADSS) scores and dissociative symptoms reported on a comprehensive, clinician-administered SE questionnaire. Methods Data from 188 participants were pooled from four placebo-controlled, crossover ketamine trials and one open-label study (n = 163 with either treatment-resistant major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder and 25 healthy controls). SEs were actively solicited in a standardized fashion and monitored over the time-course of each study. Statistical analyses assessed the effect of drug (ketamine, placebo) on SEs and measured the relationship between CADSS total score and SEs contemporaneously endorsed during structured interviews. Results Forty-four of 120 SEs occurred in at least 5% of participants over all trials. Thirty-three of these 44 SEs were significantly associated with active drug administration (versus placebo). The most common SE was feeling strange/weird/loopy. Most SEs peaked within an hour of ketamine administration and resolved completely by two hours post-infusion. No serious drug-related adverse events or increased ketamine craving/abuse post-administration were observed. A positive correlation was found between dissociative SEs and total CADSS score. Limitations The post-hoc nature of the analysis; the limited generalizability of a single subanesthetic-dose ketamine infusion; and the lack of formal measures to assess ketamine's cognitive, urological, or addictive potential. Conclusions No long-lasting significant SEs occurred over the approximately three-month follow-up period.
What Does Reverse Transfer Look Like When There is no Funding or Mandate to Support It

This exploratory study investigated how and to what extent reverse transfer has been implemented in Illinois, a state that did not receive funding as part of the Project Win Win (PWW) or Credit Whe...
The other side of atopic dermatitis: An evaluation of psychosocial comorbidities.

Abstract Atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin disease that commonly affects patients. In addition to its effects on the skin, it has also been associated with other physical, psychosocial, and economic burdens in addition to numerous debilitating comorbidities. More recently, research has focused on the psychosocial and mental health aspect of atopic dermatitis, which has remained controversial. We reviewed the current literature and discussed the association of atopic dermatitis with suicide, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and schizophrenia.
Reviews of Science for Science Librarians: “Murder Hornets:” Vespa Mandarinia Japonica

Asian giant hornets—Vespa mandarinia japonica—have unexpectedly emerged at a few sites in the Pacific Northwest. Thus far they have been successfully exterminated. While humans are not the intended...
Scaling relationships for the elastic moduli and viscosity of mixed lipid membranes

The elastic and viscous properties of biological membranes play a vital role in controlling cell functions that require local reorganization of the membrane components as well as dramatic shape changes such as endocytosis, vesicular trafficking, and cell division. These properties are widely acknowledged to depend on the unique composition of lipids within the membrane, yet the effects of lipid mixing on the membrane biophysical properties remain poorly understood. Here, we present a comprehensive characterization of the structural, elastic, and viscous properties of fluid membranes composed of binary mixtures of lipids with different tail lengths. We show that the mixed lipid membrane properties are not simply additive quantities of the single-component analogs. Instead, the mixed membranes are more dynamic than either of their constituents, quantified as a decrease in their bending modulus, area compressibility modulus, and viscosity. While the enhanced dynamics are seemingly unexpected, we show that the measured moduli and viscosity for both the mixed and single-component bilayers all scale with the area per lipid and collapse onto respective master curves. This scaling links the increase in dynamics to mixing-induced changes in the lipid packing and membrane structure. More importantly, the results show that the membrane properties can be manipulated through lipid composition the same way bimodal blends of surfactants, liquid crystals, and polymers are used to engineer the mechanical properties of soft materials, with broad implications for understanding how lipid diversity relates to biomembrane function.
Chromium and Chromium Alloys

Chromium metal, chromium alloys, and metallurgically important chromium compounds are reviewed. Occurrence, mining, and smelting of chromium ores are discussed. South Africa and Zimbabwe hold about 80% of the in situ contained chromium. Details on Supplies and availability worldwide are given. The chemical, physical, and mechanical properties of chromium metal are summarized. Important Cr-bearing alloys: the various stainless steels, alloy steels, nonferrous alloys, and Cr-based alloys are identified as are metallurgically important compounds. Applications of these materials are discussed and the contribution of chromium to the properties of these alloys is described. Methods of producing Cr-rich protective and decorative surfaces, recovery and reuse of Cr-bearing materials, and toxicology are reviewed. Economic data regarding operating and transportation of are discussed as well as international markets. Keywords: Occurrence; Properties; Sources; Manufacturing; Shipment; Economics; Grades; Specifications; Analytical Methods; Environmental Concerns; Recycling; Disposal; Health and Safety; Uses; Chromite Ore; Materials; Mining; Ferrochromium; Prices; Trade; Stockpile; Refractory Materials; Foundary Sand; Resource Conservation and Recovery Act; Water; Eppluents; EPA; Sodium Dichromate; Pigments; wood preservation; Magnetic Recording; Media Catalysts
Advances for Indoor Fitness Tracking, Coaching, and Motivation: A Review of Existing Technological Advances

There is growing consumer demand for digital technologies that help users track, motivate, and receive coaching for both aerobic and anaerobic activities. In this article, we provide a review of existing technological advances in tracking, coaching, and motivating users during indoor training in contexts such as gymnasiums. This study lists the advantages and limitations of various apparatuses and applications used for this purpose. Our review and discussion are intended to help entrepreneurs and engineers improve their products to better meet users? needs and aid researchers in identifying potential new areas.
Differential impacts of COVID-19 across racial-ethnic identities in persons with opioid use disorder

Abstract Objective The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated health disparities, particularly among at-risk people with opioid use disorder (OUD). We sought to characterize the direct and indirect impacts of COVID-19 on this group to understand how the pandemic has affected this group, this group's public health response to COVID-19, and whether there were differences by race/ethnicity. Methods This study recruited its sample from a drug treatment setting in the northeast region of the United States. We surveyed 110 individuals on methadone as treatment for OUD and assessed COVID-19-related impacts on their health behaviors and other indices of social, physical, and mental well-being, including sexual health behaviors, substance use, mental health status, health care access, income, and employment. Results Our findings highlight overall increases in depression, anxiety, loneliness, and frustration among the sample of people with OUD; the study also observed decreases in financial stability. Significant differences between groups indicated a greater financial burden among racial-ethnic minorities; this subgroup also reported greater direct adverse effects of COVID-19, including being more concerned about contracting COVID-19, not being able to get a COVID-19 test, and knowing someone who had died from COVID-19. A greater proportion of Whites indicated increases in alcohol consumption and non–prescription drug use than did racial-ethnic minorities. Conclusions Treatment providers must be vigilant in managing direct and indirect outcomes of COVID-19 among people with OUD. Findings highlight the need to develop culturally competent, differentiated interventions in partnership with community-based organizations to meet the unique challenges that the COVID-19 pandemic presents for people in treatment for OUD.
Beyond PKA: Evolutionary and structural insights that define a docking and dimerization domain superfamily.

Protein-interaction domains can create unique macromolecular complexes that drive evolutionary innovation. By combining bioinformatic and phylogenetic analyses with structural approaches, we have discovered that the docking and dimerization (D/D) domain of the PKA regulatory subunit is an ancient and conserved protein fold. An archetypal function of this module is to interact with A-kinase-anchoring proteins (AKAPs) that facilitate compartmentalization of this key cell-signaling enzyme. Homology searching reveals that D/D domain proteins comprise a superfamily with 18 members that function in a variety of molecular and cellular contexts. Further in silico analyses indicate that D/D domains segregate into subgroups on the basis of their similarity to type I or type II PKA regulatory subunits. The sperm autoantigenic protein 17 (SPA17) is a prototype of the type II or R2D2 subgroup that is conserved across metazoan phyla. We determined the crystal structure of an extended D/D domain from SPA17 (amino acids 1–75) at 1.72 A resolution. This revealed a four-helix bundle-like configuration featuring terminal β-strands that can mediate higher order oligomerization. In solution, SPA17 forms both homodimers and tetramers and displays a weak affinity for AKAP18. Quantitative approaches reveal that AKAP18 binding occurs at nanomolar affinity when SPA17 heterodimerizes with the ropporin-1-like D/D protein. These findings expand the role of the D/D fold as a versatile protein-interaction element that maintains the integrity of macromolecular architectures within organelles such as motile cilia.
Factors affecting digestibility of starches and their implications on adult dog health

Abstract Pet food represents a large share of the U.S. economy, and the majority of it is produced through extrusion. Starches comprise between 30% and 60% of extruded dog foods and sources include cereals, tubers, legumes, and co-products from the human food chain. Starches are well digested and metabolized by dogs, with variations according to food processing parameters, starch source, and dog breed. Dogs have a higher expression of enzymes related to starch digestion, glucose absorption and metabolism compared to the wolf. Several studies have reported that starch total tract apparent digestibility (ATTD) by dogs is well above 95%. Although starches are not required by dogs, they are an important source of energy and provide structure and binding of kibbles. The degree of starch digestion depends on factors like granular structure, amylose: amylopectin ratio, degree of gelatinization, and other nutrients present in the food matrix such as fibers, lipids and proteins. Tubers and legumes are well utilized by dogs, but most times require heat treatment to deactivate anti-nutritional factors and improve digestibility, while cereal starches seem to be well digested even in their raw form. Slowly digestible or resistant starches may contribute to satiety, lower glucose and insulin responses and improved colonic microbiota. In conclusion, there is enough evidence supporting that properly processed cereals and tubers included in dog foods are digestible, palatable and do not present health concerns, but the scientific literature lacks information on pulses, ancient grains, and food processes beyond extrusion.
Metal isotopes as markers of biogeochemical processes and fluxes in the eroding Critical Zone

Over 20 years ago, two new ideas began to become commonplace: the “Critical Zone” and “metal isotope geochemistry.” The former provides a conceptual view of the Earth's terrestrial surface, while the latter provides a means with which to study it. The progress that has been made in
Comparative Study of Thermal Performance of Liquid Metal and Water Flow Through a Channel

The heat transfer performance of a liquid metal flowing inside a 1-mm channel with different lengths was numerically investigated and compared with water. Inlet velocity of the liquid metal was varied to simulate same inlet velocity and pressure drop conditions as water. Pressure drop and heat transfer coefficient for both fluids were compared for different channel lengths and wall heat flux. It was found that the performance of the fluids is influenced by the heat flux, but is strongly dependent on the channel length-to-diameter ratio and the inlet flow rate used.
Applications for Other Health Care Organizations

In earlier chapters, models of performance evaluation for major health care providers were presented. These included hospitals, physician offices, nursing homes, health maintenance organizations, and home health care. There are many other health care providers that serve patient needs, sometimes in conjunction with major providers and sometimes independently. The literature shows that a variety of performance models were developed for providers such as dialysis centers, community mental health centers, community-based youth services, organ procurement organizations, aging agencies, dental providers, pharmacies, ophthalmology centers, diagnostic and screening centers, and so on (Hollingsworth 2003, 2008). In this chapter, performance models for selected health service providers are presented.
Emission characteristics of methanol fueled vehicles using feedback carburetion and three way catalysts

In previous studies, alcohols have shown a potential for lowering the emissions of regulated species. In order to assess three-way catalyst performance on alcohol fuels, three 1978 Ford Pintos were retrofitted to run on neat methanol fuel. Over 30,000 vehicle miles were accumulated during an 18-month period. Driveability, fuel economy and emission histories (CVS-78) were obtained. Catalytic system efficiency for both methanol and gasoline were evaluated. 15 refs.
Selective Targeting to the Hyperactive β-Catenin/T-Cell Factor Pathway in Colon Cancer Cells

Many colon cancers suffer mutations in either the adenomatous polyposis coli or β-catenin genes that lead to stabilization of β-catenin and activation of downstream T-cell factor (Tcf) target genes. We have developed a novel approach targeting colon cancer cells based on their aberrant β-catenin/Tcf signaling pathway. A recombinant adenovirus, in which an apoptosis gene fadd is under the control of the promoter containing Tcf-responsive elements, selectively and efficiently kills colon cancer cells in which the β-catenin/Tcf pathway is hyperactivated. Our data therefore provide a conceptual proof that aberrantly activated Wnt/β-catenin/Tcf pathways can be used to selectively target colon cancers.
Hierarchical Stochastic Reward Net Solver Package

This paper describes the design and application of the Hierarchical Stochastic Reward Nets Solver Package (HSP) to compute system reliability, availability, maintainability, and the other system performance metrices. This enables us to model systems with hierarchy and/or modular redundancy efficiently.
Identification and characterization of a new human ETS-family transcription factor, TEL2, that is expressed in hematopoietic tissues and can associate with TEL1/ETV6.

The ETS family of proteins is a large group of transcription factors implicated in many aspects of normal hematopoietic development, as well as oncogenesis. For example, the TEL1/ETV6 (TEL1) gene is required for normal yolk sac angiogenesis, adult bone marrow hematopoiesis, and is rearranged or deleted in numerous leukemias. This report describes the cloning and characterization of a novel ETS gene that is highly related to TEL1 and is therefore called TEL2 . The TEL2 gene consists of 8 exons spanning approximately 21 kilobases (kb) in human chromosome 6p21. Unlike the ubiquitously expressed TEL1 gene, however, TEL2 appears to be expressed predominantly in hematopoietic tissues. Antibodies raised against the C-terminus of the TEL2 protein were used to show that TEL2 localizes to the nucleus. All ETS proteins can bind DNA via the highly conserved ETS domain, which recognizes a purine-rich DNA sequence with a GGAA core motif. DNA binding assays show that TEL2 can bind the same consensus DNA binding sequence recognized by TEL1/ETV6 . Additionally, the TEL2 protein is capable of associating with itself and with TEL1 in doubly transfected Hela cells, and this interaction is mediated through the pointed (PNT) domain of TEL1. The striking similarities of TEL2 to the oncogenic TEL1 , its expression in hematopoietic tissues, and its ability to associate with TEL1 suggest that TEL2 may be an important hematopoietic regulatory protein.
1‐Methyl‐2‐azaadamantane N‐Oxyl

[872598-44-2] C10H16NO (MW 166.24) InChI = 1S/C10H16NO/c1-10-5-7-2-8(6-10)4-9(3-7)11(10)12/h7-9H,2-6H2,1H3/t7-,8+,9-,10+ InChIKey = IBNXYCCLPCGKDM-YNFQOJQRSA-N (stable nitroxyl radical, highly efficient organocatalyst for the oxidation of both primary and secondary alcohols to aldehydes and ketones, respectively) Solubility: soluble in common organic solvents such as CH2Cl2, CHCl3 and EtOAc. Form Supplied in: red solid. Preparative Method: the title reagent can be prepared in two steps from 1-iodomethyl-2-azaadamantane, which itself is accessible through a five-step synthesis starting from 1,3-admantanediol (eq 1):1 (1) To a solution of 1-iodomethyl-2-azaadamantane (3.35 g, 12 mmol) in THF (60 mL) at 0 °C [LiAlH4 (550 mg, 14.4 mmol)] was added portionwise. After stirring at 70 °C for 30 min, the reaction was cooled to 0 °C, diluted with Et2O and quenched with 30% aq. NH3. The resulting mixture was filtered through Celite® and the filtrate concentrated under reduced pressure. The residue was diluted with CHCl3. Saturated Na2CO3 was then added and extracted with CHCl3. The organic layer was dried over Na2CO3 and concentrated under reduced pressure to give the crude product as pale yellow oil. A mixture of the crude amine and Na2WO4·2H2O (404 mg, 1.23 mmol) in H2O–MeOH (20 mL, 1:4 v/v) was stirred at room temperature for 30 min. The reaction mixture was treated with 30% H2O2 (5.6 mL, 51.2 mmol) at 0 °C and stirred for 30 min. After stirring at room temperature for 3 h, MeOH was removed by rotary evaporation. The residue was poured into saturated NaHCO3 and extracted with Et2O. The organic layer was washed with brine, dried over MgSO4, and concentrated under reduced pressure. The crude material was purified by flash column chromatography on silica (1:4 AcOEt:hexanes) to give the title compound (777 mg, 39%) as a red solid. Purification: checked by TLC and purified by column chromatography on silica as needed. Handling, Storage, and Precautions: care should be taken in handling this free radical reagent due to potential toxicity; should be stored in dark.
A contribution to the construct validity of the Tennessee Self-Concept Scale: A confirmatory factor analysis

Non-statistical confirmatory factor analyses of the items on the Tennessee Self-Concept Scale (TSCS) were performed on samples of 678 university stu dents and 341 male juvenile offenders to test hy potheses regarding the internal structure of the in strument. For the college sample, good confirma tion of the external and internal frames of reference postulated by Fitts (1965) were obtained, but sup port for the internal x external cross-classification was not obtained. No support for any of the hy potheses was found for the juvenile sample; rather, one major factor emerged. These findings are re lated to Super's theory of self-concept development, and implications of these findings regarding the psychometric properties of the TSCS and its use are discussed.
Mismatched double-stranded RNA, Ampligen (poly(I): poly(C12U), demonstrates antiviral and immunostimulatory activities in HIV disease.

Abstract Mismatched double-stranded RNA (Ampligen) has broad spectrum antiviral and immunomodulatory activities. These activities generate stabilization or improvement in three important surrogate markers of HIV disease progression. Patients with HIV disease treated with Ampligen do not become positive for p24 antigen, in contrast to patients treated with AZT or placebo. Viral burden can also be decreased in patients receiving Ampligen/AZT therapy. In vitro studiies indicate that both AZT sensitive and AZT resistant viruses can be inhibited by Ampligen alone and are synergistically inhibited by Ampligen in combination with AZT. The immunomodulatory effects of Ampligen are manifested as a stabilization of CD4 counts. When Ampligen is combined with AZT, an increase in CD4 count is seen. Furthermore, a return or increase in delayed type hypersensitivity to mumps, Candida, and trichophyton was seen in approximately 70% of patients treated with Ampligen. The activity of Ampligen in HIV disease is due to its multifunctional activity as an antiviral and immune stimulating agent. The antiviral effect directly inhibits HIV-infection and other viruses which have been implicated in HIV disease acceleration and progression. The immunomodulatory activity can stabilize, increase, or restore immune function. This enhanced immune function can also lead to the further inhibition of additional infections associated with disease progression. Thus, Ampligen has multiple mechanisms of action against HIV disease.
Conceptual and statistical issues in the validation of analytic dilution assays for pharmaceutical applications

The discovery research, and development of a pharmaceutical product relies on the availability of validated assays for assessing product characteristics and drug effects in vivo and in vitro. Devel...
Speckle reduction for SAR images using edge directions in wavelet domain

A filter for speckle reduction in SAT image is proposed. On each level of wavelet decomposition, three images are used. One is the original image, and the others are obtained by rotating the original image by 45° and -45° respectively, and so 12 subbands are gotten. In the 12 subbands, four subbands, HL subband and LH subband corresponding to the original image, and two HL subbands corresponding to the second and third image respectively, are used for edge detection, and the LL, HL, LH, HH subbands of the original image are used for synthesis. By using each point's four wavelet coefficients in the four subbands for edge detection, the edge detection property of the point on the original image is captured, and then the edges are detected by setting a proper threshold. And so, the speckle can be reduced while the edges being preserved well by setting the wavelet coefficeints in the synthesis subbands corresponding to the points not on edges to zero but retain the wavelet coefficients in the synthesis subbands corresponding to the points on edges. For detection of some oscillating edges, the filter is improved by combining with the traditional threshold method. Simulations on synthetic images indicate that the new filter performs better than the traditional wavelet domain hard threshold or soft threshold method.
Stem-cell transplantation for autoimmune diseases

Summary The use of intensive immunosuppressive treatment coupled with BM stem-cell transplantation (SCT) to treat human autoimmune diseases (AID) follows anecdotal observations of responses of AIT) to allogeneic SCT and an extensive background of experience with SCT in animals with AID. In the last decade, numerous clinical trials have been initiated to explore a potential benefit of (mainly autologous) SCT in advanced and debilitating cases of rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, systemic lupus erythematosis and multiple sclerosis. In this review the etiology of AID and the experimental basis of SCT is presented, together with recent clinical results of SCT for AID. While much has been learned about the risks and benefits of SCT in AID, the underlying mechanisms regulating remission and relapse of AID after treatment remain largely unknown.
Powerful pulsed THz radiation from laser-accelerated relativistic electron bunches

Coherent THz radiation was produced from relativistic electron bunches of subpicosecond duration. The electron beam was produced by strongly focused (≈ 6 μm), high peak power (up to 10 TW), ultra-short (≥50 fs) laser pulses of a 10 Hz repetition rate Ti:sapphire chirped pulse amplification (CPA) laser system via self-modulated laser wakefield acceleration (SM-LWFA) in a high density (> 10 19 cm -3 ) pulsed gas jet. As the electrons exit the plasma, coherent transition radiation is generated at the plasma-vacuum boundary for wavelengths long compared to the bunch length. Radiation yield in the 0.3 to 19 THz range and at 94 GHz has been measured and found to depend quadratically on the bunch charge. The measured total radiated energy in the THz range for two different collection angles is in good agreement with theory. Modeling indicates that optimization of this table-top source could provide more than 100 μJ/pulse. Together with intrinsic synchronization to the laser pulse, this will enable numerous applications requiring intense terahertz radiation. This radiation can also be applied as a useful tool for measuring the properties of laser accelerated bunches at the exit of the plasma accelerator.
On the distribution of lattice points on spheres and level surfaces of polynomials

Abstract The irregularities of distribution of lattice points on spheres and on level surfaces of polynomials are measured in terms of the discrepancy with respect to caps. It is found that the discrepancy depends on diophantine properties of the direction of the cap. If the direction of the cap is diophantine, in case of the spheres, close to optimal upper bounds are found. The estimates are based on a precise description of the Fourier transform of the set of lattice points on polynomial surfaces.