cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Paenibacillus sp. strain JDR-2 and XynA1: a novel system for methylglucuronoxylan utilization.

Environmental and economic factors predicate the need for efficient processing of renewable sources of fuels and chemicals. To fulfill this need, microbial biocatalysts must be developed to efficiently process the hemicellulose fraction of lignocellulosic biomass for fermentation of pentoses. The predominance of methylglucuronoxylan (MeGAXn), a β-1,4 xylan in which 10% to 20% of the xylose residues are substituted with α-1,2-4-O-methylglucuronate residues, in hemicellulose fractions of hardwood and crop residues has made this a target for processing and fermentation. A Paenibacillus sp. (strain JDR-2) has been isolated and characterized for its ability to efficiently utilize MeGAXn. A modular xylanase (XynA1) of glycosyl hydrolase family 10 (GH 10) was identified through DNA sequence analysis that consists of a triplicate family 22 carbohydrate binding module followed by a GH 10 catalytic domain followed by a single family 9 carbohydrate binding module and concluding with C-terminal triplicate surface layer homology (SLH) domains. Immunodetection of the catalytic domain of XynA1 (XynA1 CD) indicates that the enzyme is associated with the cell wall fraction, supporting an anchoring role for the SLH modules. With MeGAXn as substrate, XynA1 CD generated xylobiose and aldotetrauronate (MeGAX3) as predominant products. The inability to detect depolymerization products in medium during exponential growth of Paenibacillus sp. strain JDR-2 on MeGAXn, as well as decreased growth rate and yield with XynA1 CD-generated xylooligosaccharides and aldouronates as substrates, indicates that XynA1 catalyzes a depolymerization process coupled to product assimilation. This depolymerization/assimilation system may be utilized for development of biocatalysts to efficiently convert MeGAXn to alternative fuels and biobased products.
The Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography: Looking Back, Looking Ahead

This issue of the Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography (JASE) marks a milestone. It is the first issue of the official journal of the American Society of Echocardiography (ASE) ever to have been edited by someone other than its founding editor, Dr Harvey Feigenbaum. Quite literally, the ASE exists, and the JASE has become the premiere publication in our subspecialty, because of Dr Feigenbaum’s extraordinary vision and passion for echocardiography. At this time of transition, it seems fitting not only to look ahead, but also to look back.
Altered composition of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins and coronary artery disease in a large case-control study.

Background Traditional beta-quantification of plasma lipoproteins by ultracentrifugation separates triglyceride-rich lipoproteins (TGRL) from higher density lipoproteins. The cholesterol in the TGRL fraction is referred to as measured very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C) recognizing that other TGRL may be present. The measured VLDL-C to total plasma triglyceride (VLDL-C/TG) has long been considered an index of average TGRL composition with abnormally high VLDL-C/TG ratios (≥0.30 with TG > 150 mg/dL) indicative of atherogenic remnant accumulation (type III hyperlipidemia). However, virtually no reports are available which examine potential associations between CAD and VLDL-C/TG at the lower end of the spectrum.
A physiologically based toxicokinetic model for dietary uptake of hydrophobic organic compounds by fish: II. simulation of chronic exposure scenarios

A physiologically based toxicokinetic (PBTK) model for dietary uptake of hydrophobic organic compounds by fish was used to simulate dosing scenarios commonly encountered in experimental and field studies. Simulations were initially generated for the model compound [UL-(14)C] 2,2',5,5'-tetrachlorobiphenyl ([(14)C] PCB 52). Steady-state exposures were simulated by calculating chemical concentrations in tissues of the predator corresponding to an equilibrium distribution between the fish and water (termed the bioconcentration or BCF residue data set). This residue data set was then varied in a proportional manner until whole-body chemical concentrations exhibited no net change for each set of exposure conditions. For [(14)C] PCB 52, the proportional increase in BCF residues (termed the biomagnification factor or BMF) required to achieve steady state in a food-only exposure was 2.24, while in a combined food and water exposure the BMF was 3.11. Additional simulations for the food and water exposure scenario were obtained for a set of hypothetical organic compounds with increasing log K(OW) values. Using gut permeability coefficients determined for [(14)C] PCB 52, predicted BMFs increased with chemical log K(OW), achieving levels much higher than those reported in field sampling efforts. BMFs comparable to measured values were obtained by reducing permeability coefficients within each gut segment in a log K(OW)-dependent manner. This predicted decrease in chemical permeability is consistent with earlier work, suggesting that dietary absorption of hydrophobic compounds by fish is controlled in part by factors that vary with chemical log K(OW). Relatively low rates of metabolism or growth were shown to have a substantial impact on steady-state biomagnification of chemical residues.
A framework for role-based specification and evaluation of awareness support in synchronous collaborative applications

The contribution of the paper is a framework for specifying and evaluating awareness-related features of synchronous collaborative computing applications. While previous work acknowledges that roles are important to understanding awareness needs, no method has yet been developed to provide a fine-grained, role-based approach to both specifying the awareness-related characteristics of collaborative computing applications and evaluating whether the application meets the awareness requirements. We have been developing a means of specifying and evaluating awareness needs in synchronous collaborative systems based on the framework presented in the paper. We feel this framework can be used by other researchers, as well, to develop methods of specifying and evaluating the ability of collaborative applications to support awareness.
Effects of Power Plant Coal Pile and Coal Waste Runoff and Leachate on Aquatic Biota: An Overview with Research Recommendations

Coal, the major energy reserve in the US, accounts for nearly 80% of the known attainable resources and 74.0% of the ultimate recoverable reserves.’ In 1975 the US. produced 19% of the world supply of bituminous and lignite coals with approximately 73% of this coal consumed by the electric utilities.2 Gordon3 has reported that the use of coal for electric power generation will likely increase in future years in order to achieve our national goal of energy independence. The increased use of coal will result in the production of large quantities of fly ash, scrubber sludge, and other coal waste disposal products. Storage of this coal waste in disposal piles along with coal storage piles causes potential problems for aquatic biota that may be subjected to runoff and leachate from these piles entering aquatic systems. It has been well documented that runoff and leachate from coal piles and waste disposal piles contain a complex mixture of metals, salts, and organics. During independent studies various investigators have reported that ar~enic,~ cadrni~m,~ and selenium6 are important components of coal pile and coal waste effluents that could cause potential biological problems in the aquatic environment near coal-fired power plants. For this reason, we have selected these metals for the focus of this review. Recently the US. Environmental Protection Agency reviewed the toxicity literature on these metals.’-’ Therefore, this review was not intended to duplicate those reviews, but rather to present studies addressing actual concepts regarding the occurrence and toxicity of these metals relevant to coal pile and coal waste disposal effluents. The emphasis of the review was (1) to evaluate studies regarding the occurrence and toxicity of the above metals associated with coal effluent and (2) to identify areas not adequately addressed in the existing data. Data for both fresh and tidal fresh/oligohaline invertebrates and fish were evaluated. An attempt was initially made to determine the combined interactive effects of arsenic, cadmium, and selenium. However, it became evident from a preliminary review of the literature that suitable data and models were not available to predict the collective toxicity of these metals based on the individual toxicity of each Therefore, we reviewed the toxic effects of each metal separately. The following terms and subsequent definitions are used throughout the paper: bio
An AU-Rich Sequence Element (UUUN[A/U]U) Downstream of the Edited C in Apolipoprotein B mRNA Is a High-Affinity Binding Site for Apobec-1: Binding of Apobec-1 to This Motif in the 3′ Untranslated Region of c-myc Increases mRNA Stability

Apobec-1, the catalytic subunit of the mammalian apolipoprotein B (apoB) mRNA-editing enzyme, is a cytidine deaminase with RNA binding activity for AU-rich sequences. This RNA binding activity is required for Apobec-1 to mediate C-to-U RNA editing. Filter binding assays, using immobilized Apobec-1, demonstrate saturable binding to a 105-nt apoB RNA with a K(d) of approximately 435 nM. A series of AU-rich templates was used to identify a high-affinity ( approximately 50 nM) binding site of consensus sequence UUUN[A/U]U, with multiple copies of this sequence constituting the high-affinity binding site. In order to determine whether this consensus site could be functionally demonstrated from within an apoB RNA, circular-permutation analysis was performed, revealing one major (UUUGAU) and one minor (UU) site located 3 and 16 nucleotides, respectively, downstream of the edited base. Secondary-structure predictions reveal a stem-loop flanking the edited base with Apobec-1 binding to the consensus site(s) at an open loop. A similar consensus (AUUUA) is present in the 3' untranslated regions of several mRNAs, including that of c-myc, that are known to undergo rapid degradation. In this context, it is presumed that the consensus motif acts as a destabilizing element. As an independent test of the ability of Apobec-1 to bind to this sequence, F442A cells were transfected with Apobec-1 and the half-life of c-myc mRNA was determined following actinomycin D treatment. These studies demonstrated an increase in the half-life of c-myc mRNA from 90 to 240 min in control versus Apobec-1-expressing cells. Apobec-1 expression mutants, in which RNA binding activity is eliminated, failed to alter c-myc mRNA turnover. Taken together, the data establish a consensus binding site for Apobec-1 embedded in proximity to the edited base in apoB RNA. Binding to this site in other target RNAs raises the possibility that Apobec-1 may be involved in other aspects of RNA metabolism, independent of its role as an apoB RNA-specific cytidine deaminase.
An AXL/LRP-1/RANBP9 complex mediates DC efferocytosis and antigen cross-presentation in vivo

The phagocytosis of apoptotic cells (ACs), or efferocytosis, by DCs is critical for self-tolerance and host defense. Although many efferocytosis-associated receptors have been described in vitro, the functionality of these receptors in vivo has not been explored in depth. Using a spleen efferocytosis assay and targeted genetic deletion in mice, we identified a multiprotein complex — composed of the receptor tyrosine kinase AXL, LDL receptor–related protein–1 (LRP-1), and RAN-binding protein 9 (RANBP9) — that mediates DC efferocytosis and antigen cross-presentation. We found that AXL bound ACs, but required LRP-1 to trigger internalization, in murine CD8α+ DCs and human-derived DCs. AXL and LRP-1 did not interact directly, but relied on RANBP9, which bound both AXL and LRP-1, to form the complex. In a coculture model of antigen presentation, the AXL/LRP-1/RANBP9 complex was used by DCs to cross-present AC-associated antigens to T cells. Furthermore, in a murine model of herpes simplex virus–1 infection, mice lacking DC-specific LRP-1, AXL, or RANBP9 had increased AC accumulation, defective viral antigen-specific CD8+ T cell activation, enhanced viral load, and decreased survival. The discovery of this multiprotein complex that mediates functionally important DC efferocytosis in vivo may have implications for future studies related to host defense and DC-based vaccines.
Stable low-level expression of p21WAF1/CIP1 in A549 human bronchogenic carcinoma cell line-derived clones down-regulates E2F1 mRNA and restores cell proliferation control.

Deregulated cell cycle progression and loss of proliferation control are key properties of malignant cells. In previous studies, an interactive transcript abundance index (ITAI) comprising three cell cycle control genes, [MYC × E2F1]/p21 accurately distinguished normal from malignant bronchial epithelial cells (BEC), using a cut-off threshold of 7,000. This cut-off is represented by a line with a slope of 7,000 on a bivariate plot of p21 versus [MYC × E2F1], with malignant BEC above the line and normal BEC below the line. This study was an effort to better quantify, at the transcript abundance level, the difference between normal and malignant BEC. The hypothesis was tested that experimental elevation of p21 in a malignant BEC line would decrease the value of the [MYC × E2F1]/p21 ITAI to a level below this line, resulting in loss of immortality and limited cell population doubling capacity. In order to test the hypothesis, a p21 expression vector was transfected into the A549 human bronchogenic carcinoma cell line, which has low constitutive p21 TA expression relative to normal BEC. Following transfection of p21, four A549/p21 clones with stable two-fold up-regulated p21 expression were isolated and expanded. For each clone, the increase in p21 transcript abundance (TA) was associated with increased total p21 protein level, more than 5-fold reduction in E2F1 TA, and 10-fold reduction in the [MYC × E2F1]/p21 ITAI to a value below the cut-off threshold. These changes in regulation of cell cycle control genes were associated with restoration of cell proliferation control. Specifically, each transfectant was capable of only 15 population doublings compared with unlimited population doublings for parental A549. This change was associated with an approximate 2-fold increase in population doubling time to 38.4 hours (from 22.3 hrs), resumption of contact-inhibition, and reduced dividing cell fraction as measured by flow cytometric DNA analysis. These results, likely due to increased p21-mediated down-regulation of E2F1 TA at the G1/S phase transition, are consistent with our hypothesis. Specifically, they provide experimental confirmation that a line with slope of 7,000 on the p21 versus [MYC × E2F1] bivariate plot quantifies the difference between normal and malignant BEC at the level of transcript abundance.
Protection Order Petitioners’ Health Care Utilization

Little work has explored the extent to which female victims of intimate partner violence use medical and legal services. In this cross-sectional study of a sample of women seeking orders of protection at family court (N = 95), we report descriptive, self-report data on health care utilization and insurance coverage. Although 85% of the petitioners had private or public health insurance, 39% reported delayed medical care, and 14% had not obtained medical care of any kind. The response to address interpersonal violence victimization should attempt to connect women using the courts with needed health care services.
American health care and the law--we need to talk!

PROLOGUE: More than most industries, American health care is in the uncomfortable position of carrying out its core mission—making people healthy—in a legal environment featuring irrational rules and doctrines, conflicting paradigms, multiple policy-making authorities, and inconsistent public policies. The reigning legal confusion complicates the delivery and financing of care as well as the making of incremental reforms, which some view as the only politically feasible policy moves. Because the complexity of the industry and the sensitivity of affected interests make legal confrontations inevitable, this paper argues that the industry has a right to clearer guidance and more freedom. Duke University's Clark Havighurst describes the evolution and current confused state of the law governing the health care enterprise and its directions. Important changes in health care law often occurred more by chance than by design, and policy incoherence is the rule rather than the exception. Moreover, without a single ...
Interference effects during burning in air for stationary n-heptane, ethyl alcohol, and methyl alcohol droplets

Experiments have been conducted for the determination of the evaporation constant and flame shapes of two and of five closely spaced droplets burning in air. Droplets of approximately the same and of different diameters were used at various distances between the droplet centers. The apparent flame shape, which was observed only for n-heptane droplets, changes very little during burning. The square of the droplet diameter decreases linearly with time for fixed spacing between droplet centers, at least within the experimental limits of accuracy. In general, the average evaporation constant for two droplets, K', must be assumed either to vary continuously during burning or else to be a function of average initial drop diameter, D^0. The change of K' with time corresponds to the second derivative in plots of the square of the diameter vs. time. These second derivatives are not defined in our work because of unavoidable scatter of the experimental data. Attempts at understanding the observed results by considering published theories for single droplets, as well as groupings obtained from dimensional analysis, have been unsuccessful. It appears that the diffusion model for the heterogeneous burning of single fuel droplets will require serious revision and extension before the burning of droplets arrays and sprays can be understood quantitatively. Furthermore, the effective value of K' for a spray probably depends not only on the fuel-oxidizer system but also on the injection pattern. For this reason additional studies had best be carried out under conditions corresponding to those existing in service models.
Item-Specific Encoding Produces an Additional Benefit of Directed Forgetting : Evidence From Intrusion Errors

List-method directed forgetting involves encoding 2 lists, between which half of the participants are told to forget List 1. When participants are free to study however they want, directed forgetting impairs List 1 recall and enhances List 2 recall in the forget group compared with a control remember group. In a large-scale experiment, the current work demonstrated that when item-specific encoding instructions were enforced during learning, directed forgetting impaired List 1 recall, but it did not enhance List 2 recall. This pattern was found regardless of whether encoding was incidental or intentional. Whenever directed forgetting did not enhance List 2 recall, it nevertheless reduced cross-list intrusions. These results indicate that directed forgetting can help differentiate memories from one another, thereby reducing intrusions from irrelevant competing memories.
Perceptions of mental health services among low-income, perinatal African-American women.

Abstract Introduction The objective of this qualitative study was to explore perceptions of mental health services as a barrier to service use among low-income, urban, perinatal African-American clients of home visiting programs. Methods Inductive thematic analysis procedures were used to analyze data collected from focus groups conducted with clients ( n = 38) and staff ( n = 26) of two paraprofessional home visiting programs. Findings Four complementary themes were identified: Perceptions of mental health care providers, concerns about confidentiality, beliefs about the effectiveness of psychotherapy, and perceptions of psychotropic medication. Overall, perceptions of mental health services were largely negative. Many women equated seeing a mental health care provider with being prescribed psychotropic medication, and providers were commonly described as uncaring and emotionally detached. In general, psychotherapy was perceived as ineffective, and many women expressed strong negative views about psychotropic medication. Conclusion Perceptions of mental health services were clearly an impediment to service use in this population of low-income, perinatal African-American women. Findings from this study can inform efforts to overcome barriers to mental health service use and develop effective perinatal mental health interventions. Implications of this work include use of the home visitation setting as a context for delivering knowledge and shaping positive attitudes and behaviors with respect to mental health practices.
Control by bacteriophage T4 of two sequential phosphorylations of the alpha subunit of Escherichia coli RNA polymerase

Abstract Coliphage T4 induces two distinct phosphorylations of the α subunit of the host RNA polymerase. The first, termed alteration, requires injection but not expression of the phage genome and may be catalyzed by an activity carried in the virion. Alteration of α proceeds in the absence of RNA or protein synthesis but is not induced by phage ghosts. Alteration occurs very early during the course of a normal T4 infection. Kinetically coincident with α alteration are phosphorylations of other subunits of RNA polymerase, including sigma. Occurring slightly later than alteration is a second T4-induced phosphorylation of α, termed modification. Modification requires phage-specific protein synthesis and probably involves a T4 “quasi-late” function. Virtually all α polypeptides are “modified” by seven minutes after infection at 30 °C and remain modified throughout the T4 life-cycle.
Chloride secretion across adult alveolar epithelial cells contributes to cardiogenic edema

In utero, fetal lung epithelial cells actively secrete chloride (Cl−) ions into the lung airspaces. Cl− ions enter the basolateral membranes through Na+/K+/2Cl− (NKCC) transporters (1), down an electrochemical gradient generated by the basolateral Na+/K+/ATPase, and exit through apical anion channels, including the cAMP- activated cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator (CFTR) (2). Na+ ions follow passively through the paracellular junctions to preserve electroneutrality. The vectorial transport of NaCl generates an oncotic pressure, which drives fetal fluid secretion into the airway lumen. Shortly before birth, Cl− secretion diminishes and active Na+ transport begins: Na+ ions enter lung epithelial cells through amiloride-sensitive Na+ channels (ENaC) and are extruded across the basolateral membranes by the Na+/K+/ATPase (3, 4). This process is critical for the reabsorption of fetal lung fluid and the establishment of gas exchange. In the adult lung active Na+ reabsorption limits the degree of alveolar edema in hyperoxic lung injury (5) and in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (6, 7).
Dynamics of food availability, body condition and physiological stress response in breeding Black‐legged Kittiwakes

1. The seasonal dynamics of body condition (BC), circulating corticosterone levels (baseline, BL) and the adrenocortical response to acute stress (SR) were examined in long-lived Black-legged Kittiwakes, Rissa tridactyla, breeding at Duck (food-poor colony) and Gull (food-rich colony) Islands in lower Cook Inlet, Alaska. It was tested whether the dynamics of corticosterone levels reflect a seasonal change in bird physiological condition due to reproduction and/or variation in foraging conditions. 2. BC declined seasonally, and the decline was more pronounced in birds at the food-poor colony. BL and SR levels of corticosterone rose steadily through the reproductive season, and BL levels were significantly higher in birds on Duck Island compared with those on Gull Island. During the egg-laying and chick-rearing stages, birds had lower SR on Duck Island than on Gull Island. 3. The results suggest that, in addition to a seasonal change in bird physiology during reproduction, local ecological factors such as food availability affect circulating levels of corticosterone and adrenal response to acute stress.
Binary Mixtures of Liquid Crystalline Ester Bismaleimides

Abstract A binary system consisting of a chlorohydroquinone-based ester bismaleimide (3-Cl), T m = 238°C, and a methylhydroquinone-based ester bismaleimide (3-Me), T m = 251°C, was investigated for the purpose of improving processability by widening the nematic phase range before polymerization. Calculations based on the Schroeder-van Laar equation predicted a system eutectic composition of 41% 3-Me monomer and a eutectic temperature of 202°C. Experiments found the eutectic composition at 35% 3-Me and the eutectic temperature at 218.5°C. Discrepancies between experimental results and theoretical predictions are likely due to error in measured heats of fusion either due to impurities in the samples or due to the reactive nature of the components being considered. Thermal cycling was also found to have a significant melting point depression effect. While significant depression of the system melting point was achieved, polymerization still occurred immediately after melting in all systems evaluated. All mixt...
An analytic model of implosion toward possible fusion

Abstract We apply to a spherically symmetric system a time evolution equation from which an exact solution of the Navier–Stokes equation has been obtained (Muriel, 2011, 2014). The radial density and temperature of a gas is calculated. This analytic solution may be used as a new speculative theoretical study for periodic implosions applicable to fusion.
Curve Fitting to Step Functions

The methods presented in this paper provide an improved technique for fitting a continuous function to discontinuous step functions so often evolving from empirical studies such as estimation of demand and supply functions by linear programming. Curve fitting to step functions is analyzed using the criterion of minimizaton of the integral of squared distances between the curve being fitted and a step function. The criterion is a limiting form of least squares fit where all points on the step function are treated as "observations." Derivations are given for equations specifying the minimum integral fit for polynomials, a criterion of fit analogous to the coefficient of multiple determination in least squares fitting, and the analogue of the standard error of estimate in least squares. STEP FUNCTIONS frequently arise in empirical investigations when theoretical considerations suggest a continuous relation. By a step function we mean a function such that the range is divided into a finite number of intervals with the dependent variable constant on a given interval. Graphically, the function appears as a series of steps (Figure 1). The results of linear programming models, in which a price or resource has been permitted to vary, often yield step functions.' Economic engineering studies may also generate empirical measures in the form of step functions.2 Sometimes the discontinuous function may be consistent with theory, but the convenience afforded by a continuous relationship makes it desirable to obtain a continuous approximation.
METABOLIC SYNDROME IS ASSOCIATED WITH PRECLINICAL ALTERATIONS IN MYOCARDIAL MICROSTRUCTURE

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is associated with myocardial fibrosis that is thought to contribute to diastolic dysfunction and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. In patients with hypertension, ultrasonic backscatter detected increased myocardial fibrosis. To determine whether MetS is
A Generalization of Krasnoselski's Theorem on the Real Line

(1975). A Generalization of Krasnoselski's Theorem on the Real Line. Mathematics Magazine: Vol. 48, No. 3, pp. 167-168.
GPU Daemon: Road to zero cost submission

In this paper we present a novel approach of utilizing new features of OpenCL 2.0: Fine-Grained SVM and device-side enqueue that allow completely new usage models and application paradigms. We present the idea of a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) daemon that operates using different modes. We also provide performance data that compares traditional OpenCL enqueue model with a new proposed zero cost submission model.
An examination of US state pensions by total state expenditures, state budget deficit and red v. blue state

Pensions are important to government employees. In the USA, some states fund almost 100% of the present value of future pension obligations; while in other states, the funding is substantially lacking. Results of this study show that states with lower state expenditures per capita, relative to states with higher expenditures, have provided better funding of their state pensions. States with lower budget deficits, relative to states with higher budget deficits, paid a significantly higher percent of annual required contributions. This suggests that states that are more fiscally conservative (lower budget deficit) do a better job of making required annual contributions to their state pensions. The red (Republican) states paid a higher proportion of required annual contributions than blue (Democrat) states, 90 versus 84%, respectively; but this difference was not statistically significant. All states have an ethical responsibility to meet the pension obligations owed to their state government employees.
The Clinical Performance of UHMWPE in Elbow Replacements

Publisher Summary This chapter reviews the basic anatomy of the elbow joint and addresses contemporary and historic designs, as well as design-related issues for total elbow arthroplasty (TEA). Like the knee, the axis of rotation of the elbow shifts in both position and orientation during flexion. This makes the use of a fixed-hinge device unacceptable for TEA. Early fixed-hinge TEA systems, although inherently stable, suffered from early loosening because of the increased forces induced at the cement interface because of this unnatural constraint. Compared to the knee, stability of the natural elbow depends, to a greater degree, on the conforming bony anatomy and to a lesser degree, on the soft tissue structures. The modern era of elbow arthroplasty began in about 1975. With increased knowledge of elbow biomechanics, it was realized that the elbow did not rotate about a fixed hinge and that out-of-plane motion does occur during flexion and extension. Elbow designs must either reproduce or compensate for not reproducing the anatomic arc of motion and valgus carrying angle. Modern implants are generally based on two design principles: unlinked-resurfacing-type implants or linked hinge-type devices. In resurfacing type designs, the joint surfaces are replaced by a metal-on-ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) articulation that resembles the original anatomy. While a degree of constraint can be achieved by increasing the conformity of the articulating surfaces, these devices normally depend on the integrity of the surrounding soft tissues for stability.
A high-Q W band tunable bandpass filter

We present a tunable high-Q two pole waveguide bandpass filter at 110 GHz. The demonstrated filter has record performing insertion loss (2 dB) and tuning range (11 GHz) in the W band (75–110 GHz). A sub-micron resolution piezo electric stepper motor is used to actuate a thin film which forms the ceiling of the resonant cavities. This sub-micron actuation effectively tunes the center frequency of the filter. This tunable filter has a variety of uses such as a front-end bandpass filter for multi-band communications, as a filter for rejecting intermodulation products on tunable systems or as a channel select filter.
Classification of partial difference sets in Abelian groups of order 4p^2

In this article we provide a complete classification of regular partial difference sets in Abelian groups of order \(4p^2\), p an odd prime. It turns out that the known examples are the only examples. These are, up to complements, the trivial examples, the PCP examples, and a sporadic example in \(\mathbb {Z}_2^2\times \mathbb {Z}_3^2\).
Genetic variants associated with risk of Alzheimer's disease contribute to cognitive change in midlife: The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia and is characterized by impairment in memory, behavioral changes, and gradual loss of autonomy. Since there is a long latent period prior to diagnosis, the aim of this study was to determine whether twenty single nucleotide polymorphisms identified in genome-wide association analyses of AD are associated with cognitive change in 8,320 white and 2,039 African-American middle-aged adults enrolled in the prospective Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study. Cognition was evaluated using the Delayed Word Recall Test (DWRT; verbal memory), Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST; processing speed), and Word Fluency Test (WFT; executive function). General linear models were used to assess mean differences in 6-year change in test scores among individuals categorized by genotype after adjusting for age, gender, and years of education. Addition of the minor allele for rs670139 (MS4A4E), rs9331896 (CLU), and rs12155159 (NME8) was nominally associated with change on the DWRT, DSST, and WFT, respectively, in whites. The ZCWPW1 (rs1476679) and CDS33 (rs3865444) variants were nominally associated with change on the DWRT and WFT in African-Americans. For rs670139 and rs9331896 the association was only significant in individuals bearing at least one APOE ϵ4 allele in stratified analyses. An unweighted genetic risk score aggregating the risk alleles for 15 polymorphisms was not associated with change in cognitive function. Although the AD-associated genetic variants appear to have small effects on early cognitive change, replication will be required to establish whether there is a discernible influence on cognitive status in midlife. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Reduced-order structure-property linkages for polycrystalline microstructures based on 2-point statistics

Abstract Computationally efficient structure-property (S-P) linkages (i.e., reduced order models) are a necessary key ingredient in accelerating the rate of development and deployment of structural materials. This need represents a major challenge for polycrystalline materials, which exhibit rich heterogeneous microstructure at multiple structure/length scales, and exhibit a wide range of properties. In this study, a novel framework is described for extracting S-P linkages in polycrystalline microstructures that are obtained using 2-point spatial correlations (also called 2-point statistics) to quantify the material's microstructure, and principal component analysis (PCA) to represent this information in a reduced dimensional space. Additionally, it is demonstrated that the use of generalized spherical harmonics (GSH) as a Fourier basis for functions defined on the orientation space leads to a compact and computationally efficient representation of the desired S-P linkages. In this study, these novel protocols are developed and demonstrated for elastic stiffness and yield strength predictions for α − Ti microstructures using a dataset produced through microscale finite element simulations.
Variable inhibition of Zika virus replication by different Wolbachia strains in mosquito cell cultures

Mosquito-borne arboviruses are a major source of human disease. One strategy to reduce arbovirus disease is to reduce the mosquito's ability to transmit virus. Mosquito infection with the bacterial endosymbiont Wolbachia pipientis wMel is a novel strategy to reduce Aedes mosquito competency for flavivirus infection. However, experiments investigating cyclic environmental temperatures have shown a reduction in maternal transmission of wMel, potentially weakening the integration of this strain into a mosquito population relative to that of other Wolbachia strains. Consequently, it is important to investigate additional Wolbachia strains. All Zika virus (ZIKV) suppression studies are limited to the wMel Wolbachia strain. Here we show ZIKV inhibition by two different Wolbachia strains: wAlbB (isolated from Aedes albopictus mosquitoes) and wStri (isolated from the planthopper Laodelphax striatellus) in mosquito cells. Wolbachia strain wStri inhibited ZIKV most effectively. Single-cycle infection experiments showed that ZIKV RNA replication and nonstructural protein 5 translation were reduced below the limits of detection in wStri-containing cells, demonstrating early inhibition of virus replication. ZIKV replication was rescued when Wolbachia was inhibited with a bacteriostatic antibiotic. We observed a partial rescue of ZIKV growth when Wolbachia-infected cells were supplemented with cholesterol-lipid concentrate, suggesting competition for nutrients as one of the possible mechanisms of Wolbachia inhibition of ZIKV. Our data show that wAlbB and wStri infection causes inhibition of ZIKV, making them attractive candidates for further in vitro mechanistic and in vivo studies and future vector-centered approaches to limit ZIKV infection and spread.IMPORTANCE Zika virus (ZIKV) has swiftly spread throughout most of the Western Hemisphere. This is due in large part to its replication in and spread by a mosquito vector host. There is an urgent need for approaches that limit ZIKV replication in mosquitoes. One exciting approach for this is to use a bacterial endosymbiont called Wolbachia that can populate mosquito cells and inhibit ZIKV replication. Here we show that two different strains of Wolbachia, wAlbB and wStri, are effective at repressing ZIKV in mosquito cell lines. Repression of virus growth is through the inhibition of an early stage of infection and requires actively replicating Wolbachia Our findings further the understanding of Wolbachia viral inhibition and provide novel tools that can be used in an effort to limit ZIKV replication in the mosquito vector, thereby interrupting the transmission and spread of the virus.
Matched Comparison Group Design Standards in Systematic Reviews of Early Childhood Interventions.

Background:Systematic reviews assess the quality of research on program effectiveness to help decision makers faced with many intervention options. Study quality standards specify criteria that stu...
The Feasibility of Commercial Diajet Use (A Case Study)

The paper consists of fiscal evaluations of DIAjet use in a commercial environment. A DIAjet system was used by a small contractor to cut a 21 cm thick reinforced concrete wall in an existing high-rise residential complex. Comparisons and contrast of DIAjet cutting and conventional methods of masonry removal are discussed. An economic evaluation from the viewpoint of the contractor, as well as environmental concerns, are discussed. Improvements required in the technology are examined that will allow it to become an everyday tool from a small contractor point of view.
Distance Geometry Methods for Protein Structure Determination

We review some recent advances for solving the distance geometry (DG) problems for protein structure determination. We focus on the development of a geometric buildup approach to the problems with sparse but exact distances and on the formulation of a generalized DG problem for the determination of structural ensembles with inexact distances or distance bounds. We describe the novel ideas of these approaches, show their potentials for the solution of large-scale problems in practice, and discuss their possible future developments. For some historical background, we also provide a brief introduction to the classical matrix decomposition method, the embedding algorithm, and the global smoothing algorithm for the solution of the DG problems with exact and inexact distances. Many other methods have been developed. We will not cover them all, but refer the readers to a list of papers, hoping to provide the readers with a relatively complete knowledge of the field.
Towards TRUE human-centric computation

Abstract The traditional definition of Human-Centered computing refers to the “design, development, and deployment of mixed-initiative human-computer systems”, and mostly refers to the design of computational artifacts. Yet it is bound to be far more than that. The emergence of miniaturized sense, compute and actuate devices as well as interfaces that are form-fitted to the human body opens the door for a symbiotic convergence between biological function and electronic supplemental agents. The opportunities are quasi unlimited, but so are the challenges and the pitfalls. The paper outlines the enabling technologies, and identifies domains where breakthroughs are needed.
PDGF and the small inducible gene (SIG) family: roles in the inflammatory response.

Inflammation and tissue repair involve a series of highly regulated and coordinated reactions that are beginning to be recognized and understood. Molecules ordinarily within intracellular compartments such as the platelet α-granule are released and appear to interact with target cells to initiate cell migration and division (1). The release of these factors and their interaction with cells stimulates a second wave of events through the transcriptional activation of genes which encode proteins with additional signalling roles (2,3). Inflammatory cells have been identified in close proximity to platelets in models of inflammation and immune complex disease and in lesions of atherosclerosis (4–8). These findings suggest close interactions and exchange of signals between platelets and inflammatory cells that mutually stimulate the release of these signalling molecules and initiate subsequent transcriptional events for the synthesis of additional mediators of inflammation and wound repair. Platelets may therefore play a central role in inflammation and tissue repair.
Effect of Filler Morphology on Viscoelastic Properties of PDMS-Based Magnetorheological Elastomers

The viscoelastic properties of magnetorheological elastomers (MREs) are tunable with an external magnetic field, which provides them with greater functionality than conventional reinforced polymers. Despite the abundant amount of literature studying the complex micromechanics of MREs, the effect of filler morphology (including particle size, shape and superficial texture) is an aspect that has been recurrently overlooked. This paper presents a multiscale experimental investigation of the microscopic mechanisms governing the macroscopic viscoelastic behavior of PDMS-silicone-based MREs, with an emphasis on the effect of filler morphology on both the microstructure and the overall dynamic shear response of MREs. Sixteen different MREs were produced using four different iron powders of varying average particle size, shape and texture. The morphology of iron particles and the microstructure of the fabricated materials were analyzed via X-ray computed nanotomography and scanning electron microscopy. In addition, the shear moduli of the specimens were monitored under coupled magneto-mechanical loading via dynamic mechanical analysis. This study shows that the particle size affects the strength of the magnetic interparticle interactions, which produce a confining effect on the rubber matrix, while the particle shape and texture have a great influence on the rubber-filler mechanical adhesion.
‘I would be a completely different teacher if I had been with a different mentor’: Ways in which educative mentoring matters as novices learn to teach

This study investigates the role of educative mentors as two novices learn to teach, following them from their yearlong student teaching (2015–2016) through their first-year teaching (2016–2017). D...
Posterior ventral tegmental area-nucleus accumbens shell circuitry modulates response to novelty.

Dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens from ventral tegmental area (VTA) efferent neurons is critical for orientation and response to novel stimuli in the environment. However, there are considerable differences between neuronal populations of the VTA and it is unclear which specific cell populations modulate behavioral responses to environmental novelty. A retroDREADDs (designer drugs exclusively activated by designer receptors) technique, comprising designer G protein-coupled receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs and modulated by retrograde transported Cre, was used to selectively stimulate neurons of the VTA which project to the nucleus accumbens shell (AcbSh). First, the selectivity and expression of the human M3 muscarinic receptor-based adeno-associated virus (AAV-hM3D) was confirmed in primary neuronal cell cultures. Second, AAV-CMV-GFP/Cre was infused into the AcbSh and AAV-hSyn-DIO-hM3D(Gq)-mCherry (a presynaptic enhancer in the presence of its cognate ligand clozapine-N-oxide) was infused into the VTA of ovariectomized female Fisher 344 rats to elicit hM3D(Gq)-mCherry production specifically in neurons of the VTA which synapse in the AcbSh. Finally, administration of clozapine-N-oxide significantly altered rodents’ response to novelty (e.g. absence of white background noise) by activation of hM3D(Gq) receptors, without altering gross locomotor activity or auditory processing per se. Confocal imaging confirmed production of mCherry in neurons of the posterior aspect of the VTA (pVTA) suggesting these neurons contribute to novelty responses. These results suggest the pVTA-AcbSh circuit is potentially altered in motivational disorders such as apathy, depression, and drug addiction. Targeting the pVTA-AcbSh circuit, therefore, may be an effective target for pharmacological management of such psychopathologies.
Impact of luteinizing hormone suppression on hematopoietic recovery after intensive chemotherapy in patients with leukemia.

7039Background: Treatment of acute leukemia with intensive chemotherapy (IC) leads to increased risk of infection and bleeding because of myelosuppression. Luteinizing hormone (LH) blockade was fou...
Transarterial Chemoembolization in a Woodchuck Model of Hepatocellular Carcinoma.

Abstract Purpose To assess the feasibility of transarterial chemoembolization with drug-eluting embolic (DEE) microspheres in a woodchuck model of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Materials and Methods Nine woodchucks were studied: 4 normal animals and 5 animals infected with woodchuck hepatitis virus in which HCC had developed. Three animals with HCC underwent multidetector CT. A 3-F sheath was introduced into the femoral artery, and the hepatic arteries were selectively catheterized with 2.0–2.4-F microcatheters. Normal animals underwent diagnostic angiography and bland embolization. Animals with HCC underwent DEE transarterial chemoembolization with 70–150-μm radiopaque microspheres loaded with 37.5 mg doxorubicin per milliliter. Cone-beam CT and multidetector CT were performed. Following euthanasia, explanted livers underwent micro-CT, histopathologic examination, and fluorescence imaging of doxorubicin. Results The tumors were hypervascular and supplied by large-caliber tortuous vessels, with arteriovenous shunts present in 2 animals. There was heterogeneous enhancement on multidetector CT with areas of necrosis. Six tumors were identified. The most common location was the right medial lobe (n = 3). Mean tumor volume was 30.7 cm3 ± 12.3. DEE chemoembolization of tumors was achieved. Excluding the 2 animals with arteriovenous shunts, the mean volume of DEE microspheres injected was 0.49 mL ± 0.17. Fluorescence imaging showed diffusion of doxorubicin from the DEE microspheres into the tumor. Conclusions Woodchuck HCC shares imaging appearances and biologic characteristics with human HCC. Selective catheterization and DEE chemoembolization may similarly be performed. Woodchucks may be used to model interventional therapies and possibly characterize radiologic–pathologic correlations.