cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Evidence for a Colonic PAF Receptor

Abstract We sought to determine the effect of exogenously administered platelet-activating factor (PAF) on eicosanoid release from the left colon of the rabbit. Using an isolated buffer-perfused rabbit left colon preparation, 1.0- or 5.0-μg doses of PAF were infused into the inferior mesenteric artery. Effluents from the inferior mesenteric vein and colonic lumen were collected and the concentrations of the eicosanoids, prostaglandin E, 6-ketoprostaglandin F 1α , thromboxane B 2 , and leukotriene B 4 (LTB 4 ), were measured by ELISA. During PAF infusion there was a significant increase of all prostanoids, but not LTB 4 into the venous effluent and colonic luminal perfusate when compared to control experiments. Additional studies were performed by pretreating the colons with the PAF antagonists WEB-2170 or alprazolam prior to PAF infusion. Both venous and luminal effluent prostanoid release was effectively blocked by WEB-2170, but not by alprazolam. Colons pretreated with WEB-2170 prior to PAF had markedly diminished tissue injury when compared to colons treated with PAF alone. Inhibition of PAF-stimulated prostanoid release by WEB-2170 suggests that a PAF-sensitive receptor is present in rabbit colonic tissue which may induce eicosanoid-mediated tissue injury.
A faux 3'-UTR promotes aberrant termination and triggers nonsense- mediated mRNA decay

Nonsense-mediated messenger RNA decay (NMD) is triggered by premature translation termination1,2,3, but the features distinguishing premature from normal termination are unknown. One model for NMD suggests that decay-inducing factors bound to mRNAs during early processing events are routinely removed by elongating ribosomes but remain associated with mRNAs when termination is premature, triggering rapid turnover4. Recent experiments5,6,7 challenge this notion and suggest a model that posits that mRNA decay is activated by the intrinsically aberrant nature of premature termination8,9. Here we use a primer extension inhibition (toeprinting) assay10 to delineate ribosome positioning and find that premature translation termination in yeast extracts is indeed aberrant. Ribosomes encountering premature UAA or UGA codons in the CAN1 mRNA fail to release and, instead, migrate to upstream AUGs. This anomaly depends on prior nonsense codon recognition and is eliminated in extracts derived from cells lacking the principal NMD factor, Upf1p, or by flanking the nonsense codon with a normal 3′-untranslated region (UTR). Tethered poly(A)-binding protein (Pab1p), used as a mimic of a normal 3′-UTR, recruits the termination factor Sup35p (eRF3) and stabilizes nonsense-containing mRNAs. These findings indicate that efficient termination and mRNA stability are dependent on a properly configured 3′-UTR.
Diurnal Variations in Precipitation and Thunderstorm Frequency over the Conterminous United States

Abstract Hourly data on the frequencies of all types of precipitation events, heavy precipitation events, trace precipitation events and thunderstorms for more than 100 stations in the United States were processed to generate statistics on the amplitude and phase of the diurnal and semidiurnal cycles at each station. Results are displayed on seasonal maps in a vectorial format that emphasizes the large scale geographical consistency of the diurnal variations. During summer each of the four parameters listed above displays a distinctive geographical pattern of diurnal variations. Thunderstorm frequency tends to be the most strongly modulated by the diurnal cycle; trace precipitation the least strongly modulated. Over the central United States the maximum frequency of severe convective storms occurs during the early evening; thunderstorms exhibit their maximum frequency around midnight, while most precipitation falls later in the night. These amplitude and phase differences offer some insight into the relat...
Use of Geothermal Deep Foundations for Bridge Deicing

Winter deicing practices reduce the longevity of bridge infrastructure and make it difficult to achieve the national goal of a bridge service life of 100 years or more, which was set by SHRP 2. The vast majority of these bridges are supported on deep foundations. The goal of this study was to evaluate the concept of employing geothermal deep foundations (energy piles) to heat the bridge slab and thereby minimize or eliminate the use of deicing salt. This concept had the advantage of using required foundation elements to function also as heat exchangers with the surrounding soil, which approximated a constant temperature below a depth of 1 to 3 m (depending on the region). This paper describes a two-dimensional (2-D) finite element model used to assess the power demands to heat a typical bridge slab. Initially, the 2-D model of a conventional bridge (not incorporating the geothermal system) was validated by using a case study for a bridge in Rhode Island for which the temperature of the bridge slab was mon...
A new class of angiotensin inhibitors: N-methylphenylalanine analogs

Abstract 8-N-methylphenylalanine-; 1-sarcosine, 8-N-methylphenylalanine-; 1-sarcosine, 7-hydroxyproline, 8-N-methylphenylalanine-; 7-alanine, 8-N-methylphenylalanine-; and 1-sarcosine, 7-alanine, 8-N-methylphenylalanine-angiotensins II have been synthesized by the solid-phase method. Their agonist activity in several assays is greatly diminished. Three analogs have inhibitory properties, and 1-sarcosine, 8-N-methylphenylalanine-angiotensin II is more potent than the previously described 1-sarcosine, 8-isoleucine-angiotensin as an inhibitor of the pressor action of angiotensin in the rat.
Navigating the Uncharted Waters: An Emotional Engineering Approach to Decision Making

Although there are many approaches to decision making, most of them are tools for the Closed World, and you can make decisions before you sail out. But the world we are living in now is an Open World, where there is no chart. We have to make decisions while we are navigating. Economists, Simon and Keynes, say that in a Closed World economic agents make decisions rationally, but in an Open World they rely on emotion.This paper describes that by introducing directed graph and declarative programming techniques, we can simulate emotion-driven decision making. This approach has several advantages. One important one is we can introduce emotion into quality function deployment. Quality is not just function requirements. Quality is nothing other than customers’ expectations. And emotions are closely related to their expectations and satisfactions. Another advantage is that as engineering needs more and more diverse pieces of knowledge, it is becoming increasingly difficult to see the whole picture. But this approach permits decision making in your own way and still meeting customers’ expectations adequately.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Long-term speech results of cleft palate speakers with marginal velopharyngeal competence

The purposes of this study were to (1) examine the long-term speech status of patients judged to exhibit marginal velopharyngeal competence at 6 years of age and (2) determine whether speech performance data obtained at age 6 could be used to discriminate patients with marginal velopharyngeal competence who eventually demonstrate velopharyngeal incompetence from those who do not. Longitudinal speech performance data were retrieved for 48 subjects and examined descriptively for the total group. Data obtained at the subjects' last evaluation (adolescence) were then used to reassign these subjects into one of three classification groups for estimating velopharyngeal status (competent, marginal, incompetent) on the basis of the clinical ratings of velopharyngeal competence assigned at the time of their last examination in adolescence. Differences in measures of articulation proficiency and hypernasality among the three groups were examined at age 6 using an analysis of variance. A stepwise discriminate analysis was also performed to determine whether the speech data obtained at age 6 could be used to discriminate the three adolescent classification groups. The ANOVA revealed no significant differences among the classification groups in type of articulation errors. Differences in articulation test scores and severity ratings of articulation defectiveness and nasality in connected speech were evident among the groups. The discriminate analysis revealed that the groups could be separated, in part, on the basis of two variables: the severity ratings of articulation defectiveness and nasality.
A poisonous plant of the genus Datura (Solanaceae) in an eighteenth-century Danish garden in West Africa

There was disagreement among colonialists about whether the Africans around the Danish West African forts made use of native poisons in the early nineteenth century, but it appears that the Danes themselves may have introduced a poisonous ornamental plant of the genus Datura in one of their own gardens on the Guinea Coast.
Modeling Corrosion Processes for Alloy 22 Waste Packages

The proposed waste package design for the disposal of high-level radioactive waste at the potential repository at Yucca Mountain, Nevada, consists of an outer container made of Alloy 22, a corrosion resistant Ni-Cr-Mo-W alloy, surrounding an inner container made of Type 316 nuclear grade stainless steel. Models to assess the influence of waste package degradation modes on the overall system performanceconsider uniform and localized corrosion processes. Based on measurements of passive anodic current density, the uniform aqueous corrosion rate of Alloy 22 is estimated to be slow, and long waste package lifetimes are projected in the absence of conditions that promote accelerated degradation processes. The initiation of localized corrosion is possible in chloride-containing waters with low concentrations of inhibiting oxyanions such as nitrate. Although propagation rates for localized corrosion are typically orders of magnitude greater than the passive uniform corrosion rates, the maximum penetration depth of localized attack may be limited to depths significantly less than the container thickness as a result of stifling andarrest of localized corrosion.
Thermal Response Characterization of Sheet Metals During Electrically-Assisted Forming (EAF)

For the current practice of lightweight engineering in the automotive sector, it is common to introduce and use low density/high strength materials instead of costly engine/drivetrain technologies. With the introduction of these materials there are commonly many manufacturing difficulties which arise during their incorporation to the vehicle. As a result, new processes which improve the manufacturability of these materials are necessary. This work examines the manufacturing technique of Electrically-Assisted Forming (EAF) where an electrical current is applied to the workpiece during deformation. As a result of the applied current, Joule heating is present which increases the temperature of the material. In this work the thermal response of sheet metal for stationary and deformation tests using this process are explored and modeled. The results of the model show good agreement for the stationary tests while the deformation model predicts that all of the applied electrical current may not be transformed into Joule heating. Thus, this work suggests from the observed response that a portion of the applied current may be directly aiding in deformation (i.e. the Electroplastic Effect).Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Least desirable feature elimination in a general pattern recognition problem

Abstract A new technique for dimensionality reduction for a general pattern recognition problem with pattern classes represented by multivariate normal distributions is presented. The method consists of identifying and eliminating the least desirable feature out of the original feature space. It is shown that great simplicity is obtained by doing so in comparison to the existing methods. A very simple expression describing a vector representing the least desirable feature in a most general case is derived. If the original feature space is N-dimensional then recognizing and eliminating such a feature is equivalent to selecting and retaining the N−1 best features. J-divergence is used as a measure of the discrimination between the classes. The flow chart for the method for discarding more than one dimension is presented.
Ultrastructural observations on mitosis in myocardial cells of the rat embryo.

Cardiac tissue from rat embryos at 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, days of gestation and newborn rats were processed and studied under the electron microscope. A unique observation in the developing myocardium is detection of the simulataneous occurrence of mitosis and synthesis of muscle-specific contractile proteins (actin and myosin filaments) in the same cells. Mitotic cells containing sites of myofilaments are discernible throughout the gestational period covered in this investigation, including the myocardium of new born. Unlike skeletal muscle, in the myocardium of rat embryos the onset of fibrillogenesis is not correlated with cessation of mitotic activity.
Body Weight and Mortality

Over the years ideal or desirable weights have been associated with the lowest mortality and defined in a number of ways. The widely used height-weight tables of the Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, developed in the 1940s, have been supplanted in the last decade by new weight standards based on findings of several population-based studies that compared body weight to mortality. The Quetelet or body mass index (BMI), now used as the de facto criterion for defining a desirable weight index, indicates relative fatness and is only minimally correlated with height. However, the optimal BMI or weight for longevity remains to be defined for a number of methodological reasons. This article reviews the strength of the evidence for increased mortality in adults who are overweight or underweight based on standard BMI ranges and in those who reported a change in body weight. Epidemiological studies show that excess body weight is associated with increased mortality, depending on fat patterning, gender, and age. A similar increase is shown for subjects with body weight below the relative weight range, although here associated life-style factors are greater contributors. Preliminary data suggest that change in body weight may also be associated with increased mortality. Overall, carefully measured weight and height remain the most easily performed and useful determinants of nutritional status and predictors of mortality for the general population.
Correlating surgical and pathological diagnoses in pediatric appendicitis

Abstract Background The stratification of appendicitis into simple and complex variants has far-reaching implications. While the operative diagnosis made by the surgeon dictates clinical management, the pathologic diagnosis often differs and is frequently used for coding and reimbursement. The purpose of this study was to examine discrepancies between the operative and pathologic diagnoses with subsequent correlation to clinical outcomes. Methods Patients with acute appendicitis from July 2011 to July 2012 were identified. Diagnoses included simple (normal, acute, and suppurative) and complex (gangrenous and perforated). We evaluated the inter-rater reliability between pathologic and operative diagnoses in the five appendicitis categories. Clinical outcomes of deep and superficial surgical site infections were evaluated according to the pathologic and surgical diagnosis. Results During the study period, we identified 1166 patients with acute appendicitis. The surgeon and pathologist agreed on the specific diagnosis (acute, suppurative, gangrenous, perforated, normal) in 48% of patients (kappa 0.289, 95% CI 0.259–0.324, p=0.001). Agreement on disease severity (simple vs. complex) improved to 82%. The operative diagnosis more accurately predicted infectious complications than the pathologic diagnoses. Conclusion Significant discordance exists between surgical and pathologic diagnoses. While the relevance of this discordance to clinical outcomes is still not clear, a potential for incorrect hospital coding and subsequent reimbursement exists. Future quality improvement projects should focus on standardizing the surgical and pathologic diagnoses.
Highly sensitive muscarinic receptors in the cerebellum are coupled to prostaglandin formation

There have been relatively few studies on the effects of neurotransmitters on the synthesis of prostaglandins in the brain. We report here that acetylcholine is very effective in stimulating prostaglandin synthesis in cerebellar cortex slices incubated in vitro, i.e., 5 μM acetylcholine increased prostaglandin levels up to 3-fold over control levels. The response was saturable and dose-dependent over the range of 0.1–5 μM acetylcholine.Atropine, at a concentration of 50 nM, abolished the response. The results indicate that high-affinity muscarinic receptors in the cerebellum are coupled to prostaglandin formation. Potassium-induced depolarization or incubation with 0.1 mM histamine also significantly increased prostaglandin formation. These findings provide support for the notion that certain neurotransmitters can modulate prostaglandin levels in the mammalian brain.
Introduction to wavelets in engineering

The aim of this paper is to provide an introduction to the subject of wavelet analysis for engineering applications. The paper selects from the recent mathematical literature on wavelets the results necessary to develop wavelet-based numerical algorithms. In particular, we provide extensive details of the derivation of Mallat's transform and Daubechies' wavelet coefficients, since these are fundamental to gaining an insight into the properties of wavelets. The potential benefits of using wavelets are highlighted by presenting results of our research in one-and two-dimensional data analysis and in wavelet solutions of partial differential equations.
Statistical mechanics of probabilistic cellular automata

We investigate the behavior of discrete-time probabilistic cellular automata (PCA), which are Markov processes on spin configurations on ad-dimensional lattice, from a rigorous statistical mechanics point of view. In particular, we exploit, whenever possible, the correspondence between stationary measures on the space-time histories of PCAs on ℤd and translation-invariant Gibbs states for a related Hamiltonian on ℤ(d+1). This leads to a simple large-deviation formula for the space-time histories of the PCA and a proof that in a high-temperature regime the stationary states of the PCA are Gibbsian. We also obtain results about entropy, fluctuations, and correlation inequalities, and demonstrate uniqueness of the invariant state and exponential decay of correlations in a high-noise regime. We discuss phase transitions in the low-noise (or low-temperature) regime and review Toom's proof of nonergodicity of a certain class of PCAs.
The knowledge levels and opinions of biomedical students regarding the human papillomavirus quadrivalent (types 6, 11, 16, and 18) recombinant vaccine.

The objective of this research was to assess the knowledge levels and attitudes of all students enrolled in 1 biomedical university regarding the human papillomavirus quadrivalent (types 6, 11, 16, and 18) recombinant vaccine (Gardasil-Merck; the HPV vaccine). A survey of students from all 7 programs at the University was conducted in January 2009. A total of 1120 useable questionnaires were obtained. These programs included pharmacy, osteopathic medicine, physician assistant, physical therapy, occupational therapy, doctor of psychology, and master of biomedical sciences. Mean percentage correct on the HPV vaccine knowledge test was 73. Subjects scored highest on the question that asks whether the vaccine helps prevent cervical cancer (97% correct) and lowest on the one asking whether it helps prevent genital warts (41% correct). Eighty-eight percent thought that patients 18 years and older should be able to receive the HPV vaccine without parental consent. Only about 5% think that the vaccine would cause...
Factorial invariance of LibQUAL+® as a measure of library service quality over time

Abstract LibQUAL+® is an instrument purported to measure three dimensions of library service quality: service affect, library as a place, and information control. After changes were made to the instrument in 2003, however, no confirmatory factor analyses have been published in peer-reviewed journals affirming the three-factor structure of LibQUAL+®. These deficiencies were addressed by testing the hypothesized three-factor structure and the stability of that structure over time. Specifically, data from three samples (n = 550; n = 3261; n = 2103) were collected over a five-year period and analyzed using a multi-group confirmatory factor analysis. Results suggest that the theoretical model fit the data across the three samples and demonstrates factorial invariance over time. Multicollinearity between affect of service and information control, however, indicate that service quality may be measured as two dimensions rather than three, providing a more parsimonious explanation of service quality.
Conidiation Color Mutants of Aspergillus fumigatus Are Highly Pathogenic to the Heterologous Insect Host Galleria mellonella

The greater wax moth Galleria mellonella has been widely used as a heterologous host for a number of fungal pathogens including Candida albicans and Cryptococcus neoformans. A positive correlation in pathogenicity of these yeasts in this insect model and animal models has been observed. However, very few studies have evaluated the possibility of applying this heterologous insect model to investigate virulence traits of the filamentous fungal pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus, the leading cause of invasive aspergillosis. Here, we have examined the impact of mutations in genes involved in melanin biosynthesis on the pathogenicity of A. fumigatus in the G. mellonella model. Melanization in A. fumigatus confers bluish-grey color to conidia and is a known virulence factor in mammal models. Surprisingly, conidial color mutants in B5233 background that have deletions in the defined six-gene cluster required for DHN-melanin biosynthesis caused enhanced insect mortality compared to the parent strain. To further examine and confirm the relationship between melanization defects and enhanced virulence in the wax moth model, we performed random insertional mutagenesis in the Af293 genetic background to isolate mutants producing altered conidia colors. Strains producing conidia of previously identified colors and of novel colors were isolated. Interestingly, these color mutants displayed a higher level of pathogenicity in the insect model compared to the wild type. Although some of the more virulent color mutants showed increased resistance to hydrogen peroxide, overall phenotypic characterizations including secondary metabolite production, metalloproteinase activity, and germination rate did not reveal a general mechanism accountable for the enhanced virulence of these color mutants observed in the insect model. Our observations indicate instead, that exacerbated immune response of the wax moth induced by increased exposure of PAMPs (pathogen-associated molecular patterns) may cause self-damage that results in increased mortality of larvae infected with the color mutants. The current study underscores the limitations of using this insect model for inferring the pathogenic potential of A. fumigatus strains in mammals, but also points to the importance of understanding the innate immunity of the insect host in providing insights into the pathogenicity level of different fungal strains in this model. Additionally, our observations that melanization defective color mutants demonstrate increased virulence in the insect wax moth, suggest the potential of using melanization defective mutants of native insect fungal pathogens in the biological control of insect populations.
Laser induced detachment and re-orientation of cells

Re-orientation of adhering cell(s) with respect to other cell(s) has not been yet possible, thus limiting study of controlled interaction between cells. Here, we report cell detachment upon irradiation with a focused near-infrared laser beam, and reorientation of adherent cells. The cell gets detached after irradiation for few seconds, followed by vertical orientation. The detached cell was transported along axial direction by scattering force and trapped at a higher plane inside the media using the same laser beam by Gravito-optical trap. The trapped cell could then be repositioned by movement of the sample stage and reoriented by rotation of the astigmatic trapping beam. The height at which the cell was stably held was found to depend on the laser beam power. The cell could be brought back to the substrate by reducing the laser beam power using a polarizer or blocking the laser beam. Viability of the detached and manipulated cell was found not to be compromised as confirmed by PI fluorescence exclusion assay. The re-oriented cell was allowed to re-attach to the substrate at a controlled distance and orientation with respect to other cells. Further, the cell was found to retain its shape even after multiple detachments and manipulation using the laser beam. This technique opens up new avenues for non-contact modification of cellular orientations that will enable study of inter-cellular interactions and design of engineered tissue.
Social networking sites: a support system for African-American women wearing natural hair

Hair texture has been a factor in the unspoken cultural divide amongst African-American (AA) women. US society's White beauty ideology enhanced the desire for chemically straight hair; however, som...
Channelrhodopsin-Assisted Patching: In Vivo Recording of Genetically and Morphologically Identified Neurons throughout the Brain

Brain networks contain a large diversity of functionally distinct neuronal elements, each with unique properties, enabling computational capacities and supporting brain functions. Understanding their functional implications for behavior requires the precise identification of the cell types of a network and in vivo monitoring of their activity profiles. Here, we developed a channelrhodopsin-assisted patching method allowing the efficient in vivo targeted recording of neurons identified by their molecular, electrophysiological, and morphological features. The method has a high yield, does not require visual guidance, and thus can be applied at any depth in the brain. This approach overcomes limitations of present technologies. We validate this strategy with in vivo recordings of identified subtypes of GABAergic and glutamatergic neurons in deep cortical layers, subcortical cholinergic neurons, and neurons in the thalamic reticular nucleus in anesthetized and awake mice. We propose this method as an important complement to existing technologies to relate specific cell-type activity to brain circuitry, function, and behavior.
Ten-Year Follow-up in Aortic Valve Replacement Using the Björk-Shiley Prosthesis

Abstract An in-depth statistical analysis of early and late results of aortic valve replacement using the Bjork-Shiley tilting-disc prosthesis is presented. Our experience with this prosthesis indicates that replacement carries a low surgical risk, a low incidence of complications (embolization, infection, or hemorrhage due to long-term use of anticoagulants), and good long-term survival. Coexisting coronary artery disease increases surgical mortality significantly, and simultaneous, complete revascularization is essential. Patients undergoing isolated aortic valve replacement did significantly better than those requiring other simultaneous procedures or those who had had previous operations. Earlier operation is imperative since progress of aortic valve disease is unpredictable by duration of symptoms, and patients in New York Heart Association Functional Class II have a low surgical risk and a greatly increased survival. It would appear from this study that additional criteria, such as increasing ventricular dilatation and hypertrophy determined by echocardiographic studies and gated nuclear studies showing deterioration of ejection fraction on exercise, should be used to help determine time of surgical intervention rather than symptomatology alone.
Category Norms: a Comparison of the Battig and Montague (1969) Norms With the Responses of Adults Between the Ages of 20 and 80

In order to determine whether category norms collected from college students are appropriate for research with older adults, 25 men and 25 women in each of three age groups, Young (20 to 39 years), Middle (40 to 59 years) and Old (60 to 79 years), were asked to produce as many category members as possible for each of 21 categories chosen from those included in the Battig and Montague (1969) norms. The correlations between the responses of the present subjects and Battig and Montague's were high for all three age groups studied. It is concluded that for most of the categories studied here, it is appropriate to use the Battig and Montague norms when choosing stimuli for experiments with middle-aged and elderly adults. Additional analyses revealed that the Old group produced fewer responses per person per category than the Young and Middle groups. Analyses of between-subject variability indicated that the subjects in the Old group were less likely than the younger subjects to produce unique, idiosyncratic responses.
Parent–Adolescent Relationship Quality and Nondisclosure as Mediators of the Association Between Exposure to Community Violence and Psychological Distress

African American youth residing in urban poverty have been shown to be at increased risk for exposure to violence and for psychological symptoms, but there has been little investigation of mediating processes that might explain this association. This study tested the quality of parent–adolescent relationships and adolescent nondisclosure to adults as mediating mechanisms through which exposure to community violence may lead to psychological symptoms. The current study surveyed a sample of 152 low-income urban African American early adolescents (aged 12–14). Participants completed self-report questionnaires assessing exposure to community violence, nondisclosure, parent–adolescent relationship, and psychological symptoms (i.e., internalizing and externalizing symptoms). Path analyses revealed that parent–adolescent relationship quality and nondisclosure both functioned as mediators of the relation between exposure to community violence and both internalizing and externalizing symptoms, though significant direct effects for violence exposure on externalizing symptoms remained. Decomposition of effects revealed that nondisclosure was a stronger mediator than parent–adolescent relationship quality. Results also indicated that exposure to violence can lead to externalizing (but not internalizing) symptoms first by way of parent–adolescent relationship quality and then nondisclosure. Combined, these findings suggest that the development of preventive interventions designed to assist adults and parents improve communication and strengthen relationships with adolescents might reduce the negative effects of exposure to community violence on adolescent mental health.
Integrating publicly available web mapping tools for cartographic visualization of community food insecurity: a prototype

Spatial profiling of community food security data can help the targeting of geographic areas and populations most vulnerable to food insecurity. While multiple poverty mapping systems support spatial profiling, they often lack capabilities to disseminate mapping results to a wide range of audiences and to spatially link qualitative data to quantitative analysis. To address these limitations, this study presents a web mapping framework which integrates a variety of publicly available software tools to enable spatial exploration of both quantitative and qualitative data. Specifically, our framework allows online choropleth mapping and thematic data exploration through a mixture of free mapping Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) and open source software tools for spatial data processing and desktop-like user interfaces. The study demonstrates this framework by developing a web prototype for informing food insecurity issues in Bogota, Colombia. The prototype implementation reveals that the proposed framework facilitates the development of scalable and functionally-extensible mapping systems and the identification of community-specific food insecurity problems (e.g., food kitchens inaccessible from workplaces of low-income residents). This suggests that web-based cartographic visualization using publicly available software tools can be useful for spatial examination of community food insecurity as well as for cost-effective distribution of the resulting map information.
Religious Diversity and its Challenges to Religious Belief

Contemporary Western culture is experiencing a heightened awareness of religious diversity. This article surveys a range of possible responses to such diversity, and distinguishes between responses that concern the salvation or moral transformation of persons (soteriological views) and those that concern the alethic or epistemic status of religious beliefs (doctrinal views). After providing a brief taxonomy of these positions and their possible relations to one another, the article focuses primarily on competing views about the truth and rationality of religious beliefs (e.g., pluralism, exclusivism, and skepticism). Here a heavy emphasis is placed on arguments for and against the rationality and moral propriety of retaining one's religious beliefs in the face of disagreement. The article surveys some of the more prominent arguments from the literature on this topic and closes with suggestions for further research.
Molecular Dynamics Simulations of the Human Glucose Transporter GLUT1

Glucose transporters (GLUTs) provide a pathway for glucose transport across membranes. Human GLUTs are implicated in devastating diseases such as heart disease, hyper- and hypo-glycemia, type 2 diabetes and caner. The human GLUT1 has been recently crystalized in the inward-facing open conformation. However, there is no other structural information for other conformations. The X-ray structures of E. coli Xylose permease (XylE), a glucose transporter homolog, are available in multiple conformations with and without the substrates D-xylose and D-glucose. XylE has high sequence homology to human GLUT1 and key residues in the sugar-binding pocket are conserved. Here we construct a homology model for human GLUT1 based on the available XylE crystal structure in the partially occluded outward-facing conformation. A long unbiased all atom molecular dynamics simulation starting from the model can capture a new fully opened outward-facing conformation. Our investigation of molecular interactions at the interface between the transmembrane (TM) domains and the intracellular helices (ICH) domain in the outward- and inward-facing conformation supports that the ICH domain likely stabilizes the outward-facing conformation in GLUT1. Furthermore, inducing a conformational transition, our simulations manifest a global asymmetric rocker switch motion and detailed molecular interactions between the substrate and residues through the water-filled selective pore along a pathway from the extracellular to the intracellular side. The results presented here are consistent with previously published biochemical, mutagenesis and functional studies. Together, this study shed light on the structure and functional relationships of GLUT1 in multiple conformational states.
Teaching Communications, Cultures, Connections, Comparisons, and Communities with Multimedia: A University-Middle School Service-Learning Project

Se describe el uso de tecnologia en forma de presentaciones de multimedia para facilitar la ensenanza de las Normas para el Aprendizaje de una Lengua Extranjera del Concilio Americano para la Ensenanza de Lenguas extranjeras. Las normas abarcan las comunicaciones, las culturas, las conexiones, las comparaciones y las comunidades. El estudiantado universitario aprende a crear, con multimedia, presentaciones sobre un tema cultural en la lengua meta. El componente de aprendizaje por servicio comunitario se fundamenta en las presentaciones creadas para estudiantes de colegio, quienes tienen acceso a las presentaciones en un sitio web de la universidad. A description is provided of how the use of technology in the form of multimedia presentations enhances the teaching of the Five C Standards for Foreign Language Learning of the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages: communications, cultures, connections, comparisons, and communities. University students learn to create multimedia presentations on a cultural topic in the target language. The service-learning component provides the multimedia presentations for middle-school students who access them from the university website.
Targeting of Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor-Mediated Activation of Cyclooxygenase-2 Expression by the Indole-3-Carbinol Metabolite 3,3′-Diindolylmethane in Breast Cancer Cells

Ligands of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) include the environmental xenobiotic 2,3,7,8 tetrachlorodibenzo(p)dioxin (TCDD), polycyclic aryl hydrocarbons, and the dietary compounds 3, 3'-diindolylmethane (DIM), a condensation product of indol-3-carbinol found in Brassica vegetables, and the phytoalexin resveratrol (RES). The AhR and its cofactors regulate the expression of target genes at pentameric (GCGTG) xenobiotic responsive elements (XRE). Because the activation of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression by AhR ligands may contribute to inflammation and tumorigenesis, we investigated the epigenetic regulation of the COX-2 gene by TCDD and the reversal effects of DIM in MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Results of DNA binding and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) studies documented that the treatment with TCDD induced the association of the AhR to XRE harbored in the COX-2 promoter and control CYP1A1 promoter oligonucleotides. The TCDD-induced binding of the AhR was reduced by small-interfering RNA for the AhR or the cotreatment with synthetic (3-methoxy-4-naphthoflavone) or dietary AhR antagonists (DIM, RES). In time course ChIP studies, TCDD induced the rapid (15 min) occupancy by the AhR, the histone acetyl transferase p300, and acetylated histone H4 (AcH4) at the COX-2 promoter. Conversely, the cotreatment of MCF-7 cells with DIM (10 micromol/L) abrogated the TCDD-induced recruitment of the AhR and AcH4 to the COX-2 promoter and the induction of COX-2 mRNA and protein levels. Taken together, these data suggest that naturally occurring modulators of the AhR such as DIM may be effective agents for dietary strategies against epigenetic activation of COX-2 expression by AhR agonists.
Quantitative methods in syntax/semantics research: A response to Sprouse and Almeida (2013)

Sprouse and Almeida (SA and an understanding of the relative effect sizes across sets of judgments. We illustrate these points with an experiment that demonstrates five clear levels of acceptability. Finally, we obse...
InfoNet: The networking infrastructure of InfoPad

This paper provides an overview of InfoNet, the networking infrastructure for the InfoPad mobile computing system. First, the goals and architecture of InfoNet is defined. Next, the current implementation, performance measurements, and proxy connections are discussed. Finally, we present the future directions for InfoNet.
Molecular Analysis Reveals Localization of Saccharomyces cerevisiae Protein Kinase C to Sites of Polarized Growth and Pkc1p Targeting to the Nucleus and Mitotic Spindle

The catalytic activity and intracellular localization of protein kinase C (PKC) are both highly regulated in vivo. This family of kinases contains conserved regulatory motifs, i.e., the C1, C2, and HR1 domains, which target PKC isoforms to specific subcellular compartments and restrict their activity spatially. Saccharomyces cerevisiae contains a single PKC isozyme, Pkc1p, which contains all of the regulatory motifs found in mammalian PKCs. Pkc1p localizes to sites of polarized growth, consistent with its main function in maintaining cell integrity. We dissected the molecular basis of Pkc1p localization by expressing each of its domains individually and in combinations as green fluorescent protein fusions. We find that the Rho1p-binding domains, HR1 and C1, are responsible for targeting Pkc1p to the bud tip and cell periphery, respectively. We demonstrate that Pkc1p activity is required for its normal localization to the bud neck, which also depends on the integrity of the septin ring. In addition, we show for the first time that yeast protein kinase C can accumulate in the nucleus, and we identify a nuclear exit signal as well as nuclear localization signals within the Pkc1p sequence. Thus, we propose that Pkc1p shuttles in and out of the nucleus and consequently has access to nuclear substrates. Surprisingly, we find that deletion of the HR1 domain results in Pkc1p localization to the mitotic spindle and that the C2 domain is responsible for this targeting. This novel nuclear and spindle localization of Pkc1p may provide a molecular explanation for previous observations that suggest a role for Pkc1p in regulating microtubule function.
Sonography of spermatic cord leiomyoma: case report and review of the literature.

Spermatic cord leiomyomas are rare. The isolated cases reported mainly describe histologic findings. We describe the findings in a case of spermatic cord leiomyoma diagnosed sonographically.
Boundary-influenced robust controls: two network examples

We consider the differential game associated with robust control of a system in a compact state domain, using Skorokhod dynamics on the boundary. A specific class of problems motivated by queueing network control is considered. A constructive approach to the Hamilton-Jacobi-Isaacs equation is developed which is based on an appropriate family of extremals, including boundary extremals for which the Skorokhod dynamics are active. A number of technical lemmas and a structured verification theorem are formulated to support the use of this technique in simple examples. Two examples are considered which illustrate the application of the results. This extends previous work by Ball, Day and others on such problems, but with a new emphasis on problems for which the Skorokhod dynamics play a critical role. Connections with the viscosity-sense oblique derivative conditions of Lions and others are noted.
Dynamics of Mean-Variance-Skewness of Cumulative Crop Yield Impact Temporal Yield Variance

Farmers' decision to adopt new management or production system depends on production risk. Grain yield data was used to assess production risk in a field experiment composed of two cropping systems (CNV and ORG), each with eight subsystems (two levels each of crop rotation (2-yr and 4-yr), tillage management (conventional, CT and strip, ST), and fertilizer input (fertilized, YF and non-fertilized, NF)). Statistical moments, cumulative yield (CY), temporal yield variance (TYV) and coefficient of variation (CV) were used to assess the risk associated with adopting combinations of new management practices in CNV and ORG. The mean-variance-skewness (M-V-S) statistics derived from yield data separated all 16 subsystems into three clusters. Both cropping systems and clustered subsystems differed as to their ability to maintain a constant yield over years, displayed different yield cumulative probabilities, exhibited significant and different M-V-S relationships, and differed as to the reliability of estimating TYV as a function of CY. Results indicated that differences in management among cropping systems and subsystems contributed differently to the goal of achieving yield potential as estimated by the cumulative density function, and that certain low-input management practices caused a positive shift in yield distribution, and may lower TYV and reduce production risk.
The Effect of Swirl on Mixing Characteristics of Turbulent Shear Layers

Simulations utilizing a model based on the FavreAveraged Navier Stokes equations coupled with a k — e turbulence model have been carried out to investigate the impact of swirl on the mixing characteristics of reacting turbulent shear layers. A number of different coaxial injector configurations have been used in the study for both reacting and nonreacting flows. It has been attempted to incorporate the various attributes of swirling motions and gauge the impact that each of these variances would have on flame-dynamics and mixing characteristics. The various parameters studied include swirl intensity, initial swirl distribution, expansion ratio and splitter plate thickness.
Aerodynamic Effects of Shape, Camber, Pitch, and Ground Proximity on Idealized Ground-Vehicle Bodies

Results are presented from an experimental study of the lift, drag, pitching moment, and flow field of a series of rounded edge simple bluff bodies of various cambers and tapers. The bodies were proportioned to be similar to those of idealized ground vehicles such as automobiles, vans, and trucks. The models were tested with and without simulated wheels, underbody roughness, and proximity to a stationary and moving ground plane. 17 refs.
Commentary: Self-management programs in the treatment of asthma.

Air flow obstruction in asthma may be caused by a number of factors, chiefly inflammation and airway smooth muscle contraction. Over the years, the relative significance of these two events for asthma has varied; sometimes one or the other was thought to be more important. In recent times, more emphasis has been placed on inflammation than on muscle contraction. As knowledge of asthma accumulated, it became increasingly clear that it is an inflammatory disease. Modern methods of controlling the disease, medications that are sometimes remarkably effective, rely primarily on reducing inflammation. At the same time, reduction of airway smooth muscle contraction continues to be a goal of asthma therapy, but its importance is secondary (Busse & Reed, 1988). Traditional psychological interventions for control of asthma, interventions such as relaxation procedures outlined in this article, reduce airway smooth muscle contraction, not inflammation. The distinction may be made on the basis of studies of healthy individuals who experience no inflammation but exhibit pulmonary function improvement following relaxation (Kotses, 1998). The mechanism for this is unclear, although some form of neural control has been suggested (Glaus & Kotses, 1983). At the same time, evidence that inflammation is controlled by relaxation is lacking. Some even find it difficult to take this proposition seriously. But these considerations do not relegate behavioral interventions to a minor role in the control of asthma. Inflammation may be controlled by be
A model for growth of Saccharomyces cerevisiae containing a recombinant plasmid in selective media

A major problem in the use of plasmids as recombinant vectors is the problem of plasmid-free cell generation from plasmid shedding and subsequent growth. A common technique for controlling the population of plasmidfree cells is the use of selective media against these cells using an auxotrophic host and a plasmid that has the ability to produced the essential metabolite. A distributed model describing the growth of Saccharomyces cerevisiae containing a recombinant plasmid in selective media was developed. The model allows for growth and production of a metabolite by the plasmid-carrying strain and growth of the plasmid-free cells on resulting metabolite concentrations. Through a determination of system constants and numerical solution to the equations, experimental batch and continuous culture results for cell concentration transients could be simulated by the model. The results indicated that despite selective pressure, plasmid-free cell growth was significant.