cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mint-3 Regulates the Retrieval of the Internalized Membrane-type Matrix Metalloproteinase, MT5-MMP, to the Plasma Membrane by Binding to Its Carboxyl End Motif EWV

Membrane type matrix metalloproteinases (MT-MMPs) play a critical role in promoting cell growth and migration within the extracellular matrix by trafficking to specialized areas. Here we show that the carboxyl EWV motif of MT5-MMP serves as a retrieval signal for internalized MT5-MMP by interacting with Mint-3, a protein with two type III PDZ domains. Deletion of the EWV signal impairs the recycling of MT5-MMP without affecting its internalization, leading to decreased activity on the cell surface. A yeast two-hybrid screening identified Mint-3 as the EWV-binding protein. Mint-3 stimulates MT5-MMP activity when expressed at low levels in an EWV-dependent fashion, but inhibits its activity at higher levels independent of the EWV motif. siRNA-mediated knockdown of endogenous Mint-3 decreased MT5-MMP activity. Furthermore, Mint-3 significantly increased the level of MT5-MMP on the cell surface without affecting its synthesis and internalization. Therefore, Mints may be the adaptor proteins that regulate the trafficking of MT-MMPs.
A Fresh Look at the Age and Cultural Affiliation of the Sheaman Site

The Sheaman site in Wyoming was discovered in 1973 and excavated a few years later. It has since entered the archaeological literature as one of the few Clovis campsites in the American West. More importantly, the wealth of information from the site related to biface manufacture has served to establish the importance of overshot flaking in Clovis technology. Since only a single projectile point of ambiguous cultural affiliation was found, the chronology of the site's occupation relied explicitly on radiocarbon ages and on an ivory rod similar to known Clovis examples. This paper reviews newly available radiocarbon data and other lines of information, and questions the previously established Clovis attribution. Rather, it is argued that available evidence points to an Agate Basin connection. Ultimately, the proposed cultural affiliation brings into question the use of overshot flaking as a cultural marker of Clovis.
On the use of a global hydrogen-air combustion model in the calculation of turbulent reacting flows

A two-step global model describing the combustion of hydrogen in air at one atmosphere pressure is developed by comparing the temperature histories obtained from a 28-reaction H-O mechanism. Using criteria discussed herein, good agreement is obtained in the range of initial mixture temperatures from 1000K to 2000K and in the range of equivalence ratios from 0.2 to 2.0. The two-step global model is compared with the results obtained using an eight-step, H-O reaction mechanism in a computer program describing the turbulent diffusion of hydrogen in supersonic, axisymmetric and two-dimensional reacting flows. Comparisons of profiles of temperature, fuel mass flux, and pitot pressure are presented. The global model is judged to be adequate in flows which are not dominated by long ignition delay times.
Rice Convection Model simulation of the 18 April 2002 sawtooth event and evidence for interchange instability

[1] We present the results of a Rice Convection Model (RCM) simulation of the 18 April 2002 sawtooth event. This event occurred as a series of quasi-periodic substorms during fairly stable solar wind conditions. It is modeled by (1) prescribing a solar-wind-driven magnetic field model (T01_s) augmented by additional current loops representing the magnetic effects of the substorm current wedge and (2) by carefully specifying a substorm-phase-dependent plasma distribution at the RCM outer boundary at 8 Re such that a hot and attenuated plasma distribution is used after every substorm onset. The set of input parameters was adjusted to make the simulation results agree with the primary signatures of the sawtooth event, specifically the sequence of magnetic field stretching and dipolarization observed by the GOES spacecraft and the associated sharp increases and gradual decreases in the flux of energetic protons measured by the LANL/Synchronous Orbit Plasma Analyzer (SOPA) instruments on other geosynchronous spacecrafts. The results suggest the important role that higher temperature and lower density plasma-sheet plasma plays in producing flux enhancements at geosynchronous orbit. The results also confirm that induction electric fields associated with magnetic field collapse after substorm onsets can serve as a likely mechanism for the energization of particles up to 25 keV. Synthetic high-energy neutral atom images are compared with IMAGE/HENA measurements for 10–60 keV hydrogen atoms. Magnetic field dipolarization over a large range of local time resulted in a dramatic reduction in the plasma entropy parameter PV5/3 on the boundary. The simulation indicates that the ring current intensified 10–20 minutes after every onset, associated with the injection of low PV5/3 flux tubes through the boundary. The low PV5/3 plasma also produced an interchange convection in the inner magnetosphere, which drives Birkeland currents in a quasi-periodic upward-downward pattern with a lifetime of 40–60 minutes and spatial extent of 1.5–2.0 hours. The results suggest that the spatial quasi-periodic and nearly north–south-aligned auroral arcs observed by an IMAGE/FUV WIC detector might be caused by interchange instability.
Perfectionism, low self-esteem, and family factors as predictors of bulimic behavior

A previous study found that self-reported body dissatisfaction, depression, and peer pressure to maintain a thin body shape were significant predictors of bulimic behavior in college women, but that family functioning was not a significant predictor [Eat. Behav. 2 (2001) 323]. The current study examined whether perfectionism, low self-esteem, and a more specific family variable--perceived pressure from the family to be thin--predicted any additional variance in eating-disordered behavior after significant variables from the previous study had been taken into account. As in the previous study, self-reported body dissatisfaction, depression, and peer pressure to maintain a thin body shape were significant predictors of bulimic behavior. Perceived weight-related pressure from the family was also a significant predictor. In contrast, high parental expectations were found to predict lower levels of bulimic behavior and to moderate the effects of peer influence on bulimic behavior. The variables found in this study to be related to bulimic behavior may be useful targets for clinical intervention for women with disturbed eating patterns.
Standardized diagnosis and recommendation integrated system (DRIS) data banks

Abstract A standard layout for DRIS data banks together with a FORTRAN listing program is presented. Data for any crop for which yield and associated parameters are available are solicited from interested parties.
Personal pronouns and the autistic child

The long-recognized difficulties of the speaking autistic child with the use and nonuse of personal pronouns [“reversals” and “avoidance”] have been generally attributed either to the nondifferentiation of the self or to the frequently coexisting symptom of echolalia. These explanations are reconsidered in this eclectic analysis from the perspective of current theory and research in development of self and of language. Emphasis is on studies of normal development of personal pronouns and the roles played in that process by listening, echoic memory, mitigated echolalia [recoding], and person deixis. It is concluded that multiple developmental obstacles of a social, cognitive, and grammatical nature underlie the more obvious symptoms and militate against the child's resolution of labels and their referents. Treatment alternatives that deemphasize the primacy of Iare offered.
Fundamental insights about environmental interface reactivity from DFT calculations of geochemical model systems

Abstract The fact that essential chemical information about environmental interfaces is becoming accessible through density functional theory (DFT) studies provides researchers with a means to interpret experimental information, to predict properties that cannot be measured, and to develop conceptual, molecular-level understanding of structure–property relationships of these systems. Molecular studies of environmental interfaces require the use of structurally well-defined geochemical models, and in here we discuss the reactivity of mineral–water interfaces and aqueous aluminum hydroxide nanoparticles with ionic species. These adsorption processes are a major factor controlling pollutant transport and transformation. In the examples we highlight, DFT studies are used to extract new conceptual understanding of the underlying physical factors of the substrates that dictate reactivity. In particular, we review DFT studies used to rationalize an empirically determined reactivity trend of hydrated alumina and hematite towards Pb(II), and later review how DFT calculations of aqueous aluminum hydroxide nanoparticles along with experimental structural information helped to identify the electrostatic potential as a key factor in understanding particle reactivity towards cationic and anionic species.
Diagnostic Models Based on Personalized Analysis of Trends (PAT)

Many changes have taken place in medicine over the last century. In the first-half of the 20th century physicians were faced with the challenge of making diagnoses with too little information, often resorting to exploratory surgery to confirm the presence or absence of a condition. Due to rapid technological advances during the second-half of the 20th century, and continuing to this day, the position of the physician has now shifted from an information-poor environment to an environment with too much information, often exceeding the limits of human decision-making capabilities. To take full advantage of all available information, a new approach based on refined automated decision support methods is needed to assist the physician in the decision-making process. Medical decision support systems need to evolve from stand-alone systems to cooperative systems in which the physician becomes the decision maker, but relies on the decision support system to sift through information to determine relevant trends. In this paper, a decision support system that combines a number of methodologies for trend analysis is described, along with examples in cardiology. The methods have also been used in applications in neurology as well as cancer diagnosis and prognosis.
Nonparametric estimation of a process mean from censored data

Abstract We consider estimating the mean of a stochastic process at a single time point t from a random sample of processes subject to censoring on the right. A very simple estimator is shown to converge a.s.
Isolation and purification of myotube and myoblast nuclei from cultures of embryonic chick skeletal muscle.

Abstract Methods are described for the preparation of purified myotubes from embryonic chick skeletal muscle cultures and the preparation of purified nuclei from both myotubes and myoblasts. Myotubes are released from the culture dish by digestion of their collagen substratum with collagenase, and purified by sucrose density gradient sedimentation. Nuclei are prepared from the isolated myotubes by controlled homogenization in Ca2+-free medium and sedimentation through 2.1 M sucrose. Nuclei are prepared from cultured myoblasts in a similar fashion, with the inclusion of the non-ionic detergent NP-40 in the homogenization medium and sedimentation through 2.4 M sucrose. Phase contrast microscopic examination showed that the nuclear preparations are free of visible cytoplasmic contamination, and are morphologically similar to nuclei observed in situ. Biochemical assays (protein/DNA and RNA DNA ratios) confirm the purity of the nuclear preparations. Both nuclear preparations have been used to prepare purified chromatin which has spectral and chemical properties similar to those reported for chromatin purified directly from several chick tissues.
A model of fertility motivation, desires, and expectations early in women's reproductive careers

Abstract We propose a general model of the relationships connecting fertility motivations, desires, and expectations in which motivations are antecedent to desires, which in turn are antecedent to expectations. We describe differences in the model as it applies to women early in their reproductive careers, specifically, after marriage but before their first birth and after their first birth but before their second. We test the model with data from 311 just‐married and 318 just‐mothered women, using LISREL to estimate structural equations for both groups. The general model fits the data well. There are three primary differences in the model with respect to the two groups of married women. How soon a woman expects her next child affects how many children she expects only among the just‐married woman. The number of children expected by the woman is the only antecedent to how soon she expects her next child among the just‐mothered women. Both positive and negative maternal motivation has effects among the jus...
On a method for fitting an unknown function based on mean-value measurements

In this paper we study the problem of fitting an unknown function given measurements on the mean-values of the function over a finite number of small subintervals. This problem is analogous to the classical fitting problem, where the data consists of measurements on the values of the function at given abscissas. The particular approach of interest here involves a certain optimization problem in which a combination of smoothness and goodness of fit is minimized. The solution of this optimization problem turns out to be a polynomial spline, but the degree of the polynomial pieces varies from subinterval to subinterval (in contrast with the classical smoothing spline). By introducing some new B-splines, we show how this alternative smoothing spline can be stably and efficiently computed.
Management of hypoplastic left heart syndrome in the 1990s.

We used the discharge database of the University Hospital Consortium to determine the management and early outcome of neonates with hypoplastic left heart syndrome admitted to member institutions from 1990 to 1999. Of the 2,264 patients, 1,203 underwent a Norwood procedure, with 42% mortality. Cardiac transplantation was performed in 72, with 38% mortality, and 217 (10%) were discharged without any surgical procedure. The proportion of patients managed by the Norwood procedure increased from 43% during the first half of the decade to 59% in the second half, with corresponding decreases in the proportion managed by transplantation or nonintervention. A mortality rate of ≤40% was achieved in all 5 institutions performing >50 Norwood procedures, and by 9 of 40 institutions performing <50. Performance of a Norwood procedure has become the most frequent management for neonates with hypoplastic left heart syndrome. Lower operative mortality rates are generally, but not exclusively, achieved by institutions with high surgical volume.
Isolation, Purification, and Characterization of an Endogenous Root-promoting Factor Obtained from Basal Sections of Pear Hardwood Cuttings

Basal segments taken from Old Home and Bartlett pear hardwood cuttings collected at intervals during the rooting period in September were extracted with ethanol and fractionated by paper chromatography in different solvent systems. Different zones on the chromatograms were bioassayed by the mung bean rooting test, which showed high levels of promotion in Old Home basal extracts when the cuttings were obtained during the period of maximum rooting. Extracts from Bartlett cuttings, however, showed considerably less promotion activity in the bioassay but did show high levels of inhibitory activity. After the easily-rooted Old Home cuttings had been in the rooting medium for 10 days, a highly active endogenous root-promoting material was found in extracts from basal segments of cuttings having buds and which had been treated with indolebutyric acid. Similar extracts obtained from disbudded cuttings, or from cuttings with buds but not treated with indolebutyric acid, lacked this rooting-factor. Extracts obtained from all types of the difficult-to-root Bartlett cuttings also lacked this rooting-factor. The latter is believed to be produced by physiologically active Old Home buds, and is very effective in the mung bean bioassay, even at extremely low concentrations. From paper chromatographic studies, tests with spray reagents, solubility determinations, biological tests, UV spectrum analysis, and infrared spectroscopy, it is believed that this rooting factor could be a condensation product between exogenous auxin (indolebutyric acid) and a phenolic compound produced by physiologically active Old Home pear buds.
Fostering Successful Learning Communities to Meet the Diverse Needs of University Students by Creating Brain Based Online Learning Environments

This paper introduces the reader on how to foster successful learning communities to meet the diverse needs of university students by creating a brain based online learning environment. Students come in all shapes and sizes. At the university level, students enrolled in online programs, have made a choice to do so. Today, online education is a unique and important venue for many students wishing to continue (or start) their education. It is part of a new culture with many distinct characteristics (Farrell, 2001). For instructors, online instruction creates its own set of challenges in terms of the course design and implementation. The author hopes that developing an understanding of how to create a brain based online learning environment will inform the reader of ways to foster successful learning communities to most effectively meet the diverse needs of the students it serves.
Quantitative flow cytometry of mouse mammary tumor virus envelope glycoprotein (gp52): alternative measures of hormone-mediated change in a viral cell surface antigen.

Abstract An immunofluorescence procedure with C3H mouse mammary tumor cells (Mm5mt/cl) has incorporated flow cytometry to provide a fluorescence-based measurement of changes in the mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV) cell surface glycoprotein (gp52). A comparison of mean channel fluorescence intensity (Δ mean) of cell populations stained with immune sera and NRS permitted a gp52-specific signal to be measured for controls and cells treated with 10 −6 M dexamethasone (Dex). Three different methods have been developed to quantitatively compare gp52-related fluorescence on control and hormone-treated cells. First, Δ mean, measured as a gp52-specific difference in channel number was 169–209 for control cells and 299–341 for Dex-treated cells. These fluorescence measurements with 4 different sera demonstrated gp52-specific increases due to Dex treatment of 141, 130, 143, and 115 channels. A second method of gp52 quantitation determined the percentage shift in staining populations over NRS and specified channel intensity markers. Dex treatment resulted in a 6.9 to 32.4% shift over channel 508 (NRS marker) and a more marked shift of 45.5 to 49.2% over channel 676 (control cell marker). A third methodology utilized fluorescein bead standards to calculate molecules of equivalent soluble fluorescein (MESF). These MESF determinations permitted hormonal effects to be measured as fold increases over controls. Dex induction of gp52 for C3H and GR mammary tumor cells ranged from 1.5 to 9.1 fold increases. Alternative steroid treatments and antibody directed against the internal cytoplasmic MMTV P27 provided negative controls for measurements of changing gp52 levels.
Desquamative interstitial pneumonia with a normal chest radiograph

Abstract An unusual case of desquamative interstitial pneumonia (DIP) with a normal chest radiograph is presented. Spirometry, lung volumes, resting diffusing capacity and arterial blood gases were normal. Exercise studies revealed gas exchange abnormalities and subsequent lung biopsy demonstrated DIP. The literature on DIP is reviewed. The point is stressed that dyspnoeic patients with a normal chest radiograph and normal resting pulmonary function should be further evaluated by exercise studies and lung biopsy so that appropriate therapy can be instituted early and possibly avert irreversible lung disease.
Diversity and change in the institutional context of immigrant adaptation: California schools 1985-2000.

This article brings attention to a structural dimension of the schooling context that may affect the incorporation of immigrant youths. Using administrative data about students in California public schools, we found that Spanish-speaking, limited English-proficient (LEP) children have become increasingly more likely to attend schools with low-income, minority, and LEP students than other non-LEP and LEP groups. Nearly all the change in school composition can be attributed to statewide shifts in the composition of the school-aged population. But compositional changes have disproportionately occurred in schools attended by Spanish-speaking LEP students as a result of district-level patterns of segregation by income, race/ethnicity, and language.
Microviscosity of the lipid domains of normal and hypercholesterolemic very low density lipoprotein.

Abstract Very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) has been isolated from normal (n) and dietary-induced hypercholesterolemic (hc) rabbits. Incorporation of the fluorescent probe, 1,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene into the lipid domains of both n VLDL and hc VLDL allowed assessment of the fluidity characteristics of these particles, utilizing fluorescence polarization techniques. Over the temperature range of 5° – 45°, the lipid region of n VLDL consists of an invariant phase, characterized by a microviscosity, η, at 30° of 0.6 ± 0.2 poise and a fusion activation energy, ΔE, of 7.6 ± 1.5 kcal/mole. The lipid region of hc VLDL, over the same temperature range, also is invariant and is characterized by a value of η at 30° of 4.6 ± 0.3 poise, and a ΔE of 7.8 ± 1.5 kcal/mole. Thus, large differences in the fluidit of the lipid in n VLDL and hc VLDL are evident, most probably due to the greatly increased content of cholesterol esters in hc VLDL, compared to n VLDL.
Evolution of Wear and Friction Along Experimental Faults

We investigate the evolution of wear and friction along experimental faults composed of solid rock blocks. This evolution is analyzed through shear experiments along five rock types, and the experiments were conducted in a rotary apparatus at slip velocities of 0.002–0.97 m/s, slip distances from a few millimeters to tens of meters, and normal stress of 0.25–6.9 MPa. The wear and friction measurements and fault surface observations revealed three evolution phases: A) An initial stage (slip distances <50 mm) of wear by failure of isolated asperities associated with roughening of the fault surface; B) a running-in stage of slip distances of 1–3 m with intense wear-rate, failure of many asperities, and simultaneous reduction of the friction coefficient and wear-rate; and C) a steady-state stage that initiates when the fault surface is covered by a gouge layer, and during which both wear-rate and friction coefficient maintain quasi-constant, low levels. While these evolution stages are clearly recognizable for experimental faults made from bare rock blocks, our analysis suggests that natural faults “bypass” the first two stages and slip at gouge-controlled steady-state conditions.
Resource Management for Complex, Dynamic Environments

This paper describes an approach to the specification and management of the agents and resources that are required to support the execution of complex systems and processes. The paper suggests that a resource should be viewed as a provider of a set of capabilities that are needed by a system or process, where that set may vary dynamically over time and with circumstances. This view of resources is defined and then made the basis for the framework of an approach to specifying, managing, and allocating resources in the presence of real-world complexity and dynamism. The ROMEO prototype resource management system is presented as an example of how this framework can be instantiated. Some case studies of the use of ROMEO to support system execution are presented and used to evaluate the framework, the ROMEO prototype, and our view of the nature of resources.
Analysis of video image sequences using point and line correspondences

Abstract In this research, we investigate the problem of analyzing time-varying imagery using a feature-based approach. We assume a scenario where the imaged objects remain stationary while the camera moves. The goal is to compute the structure of the imaged objects and the motion of the camera from a sequence of video images. The proposed method exploits the principle of the invariance of rigid configurations during motion. Using the rigidity constraints, we specify equations based on distance and angular invariance to compute the structural parameters of the imaged 3D objects independently of the camera's motion. Once the structural parameters are recovered, the motion parameters can be computed. The strength of our approach is in the decomposition of the computations of structure and motion, and in the use of point and line correspondences simultaneously. The main advantage of using both points and lines is that our approach is not limited to objects whose images have only a particular type of feature in abundance. In this research, we consider the special case of four points and one line, which are the minimum feature sets required for computing the structure and motion parameters. We then consider additional features in an overdetermined system of equations to improve the reliability and accuracy of the computation. We present computer simulation results, as well as results from real image sequences, to demonstrate the algorithm's validity.
Exact bounds for k-l-3 decay parameters

We derive exact bounds for the ${K}_{l3}$ decay form factors ${f}_{\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}}(t)$. Particularly, we find the bound $({{m}_{K}}^{2}\ensuremath{-}{{m}_{\ensuremath{\pi}}}^{2})|{f}_{+}(0)|\ensuremath{\le}16{[\frac{1}{3}\ensuremath{\pi}\ensuremath{\Delta}(0)]}^{\frac{1}{2}}{({m}_{K}+{m}_{\ensuremath{\pi}})}^{\frac{1}{2}}{({{m}_{K}}^{\frac{1}{2}}+{{m}_{\ensuremath{\pi}}}^{\frac{1}{2}})}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$, where $\ensuremath{\Delta}(0)$ is the propagator of the divergence of the strangeness-changing current at zero momentum. If we further assume the Hamiltonian of Gell-Mann, Oakes, and Renner in order to estimate $\ensuremath{\Delta}(0)$, we obtain $|{f}_{+}(0)|\ensuremath{\lesssim}1.0$. Similarly, an inequality testing the standard ${K}_{l3}$ soft-pion theorem is found to be well satisfied. In addition, a new inequality involving derivatives of ${f}_{+}(t)$ is derived. Taking ${\ensuremath{\lambda}}_{+}\ensuremath{\sim}0.02$, this inequality leads to $|{f}_{\ensuremath{-}}(0)|\ensuremath{\lesssim}0.33$.
Application of Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics Method to Free Surface and Solidification Problems

The smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) method is developed to simulate free surface and solidification problems. A new treatment is included to handle particles near the free and solidification interfaces. The method is applied to a droplet impacting on substrates with different roughnesses. Spreading, solidification, oxide redistribution, and droplet pinch-off are presented in two- and three-dimensional geometry configurations. This work demonstrates the SPH model as a powerful tool to study transport phenomena in problems with free surface deformation and solidification.
Sigma-fragmentability of mappings into Cp(K)

Abstract We prove the main theorem concerning the σ-fragmentability of a continuous map ϑ : T → C p ( K ), where T is a topological space and K is a compact Hausdorff space, and we obtain from it some new and old results about the σ-fragmentability of subsets of C p ( K ) and property N ∗f . Here are a few of them: A subset T of C p ( K ) is σ-fragmented by the norm metric if and only if it is cover-semicomplete, i.e., T is fragmented by a pseudo-metric d such that each d -convergent sequence in T has a cluster point in T . The class of cover-semicomplete spaces contains spaces with countable separation in the sense of Kenderov and Moors. Assume that a compact space K has a family A of compact subsets such that (a) for each A e A , C p ( A ) is σ-fragmented by the norm, (b) if A n e A for each n e N , then ∪ n = 1 ∞ A n is compact and (c) ∪A is dense in K . Then C p ( K ) is σ-fragmented by the norm. Finally, suppose K and L are compact spaces and L has property N ∗ . If C p ( K ) embeds in C p ( L ), then K has property N ∗ . The last result can be used to show that C p ( βN ) does not embed in C p (0, 1 Γ ) for any set Γ. The method of proving the main theorem also yields the following. If K and L are compact and C p ( K ) and C p ( L ) are σ-fragmented by the norm, so is C p ( K × L ).
Effect of age and caloric restriction on coenzyme Q and α-tocopherol levels in the rat

Alterations in the amount of coenzyme Q and alpha-tocopherol during aging and in response to 40% reduction in caloric intake were determined in homogenates and mitochondria of liver, heart and kidney of the rat. A comparison among 4-, 19- and 28-month-old ad libitum fed (AL) rats indicated an age-related loss in the amount of CoQ9 and alpha-tocopherol in mitochondria of all the three tissues. Depletion of alpha-tocopherol, but not of CoQ, was also detectable in tissue homogenates, apparently due to the preferential sequestration of CoQ in the mitochondrial fraction. Comparison of 19-month-old AL and calorically restricted (CR) rats indicated that CR elevates the level of mitochondrial CoQ, but greatly diminishes the alpha-tocopherol content. Activity of DT-diaphorase, a quinone reductase, increased with age as well as in response to CR. Altogether, results are interpreted to suggest that the widely observed age-related increase in mitochondrial oxidative damage may be associated with depletion of CoQ and alpha-tocopherol, which are known to act in tandem to prevent oxidative damage to membranes.
Assessment of students' learning experience in an oral communication course at MIT for EECS majors

Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) majors at MIT are required to take an oral communications course that teaches oral presentation skills and other professional skills that students will need to be effective in the workplace. In this paper, we describe an assessment of the oral presentation skills component of this course performed during the Spring 2009 semester. This assessment consisted of two instruments: (1) a class survey of 71 enrolled students (with 60 respondents or an 85% response rate) and (2) student interviews in which 7 out of 10 randomly-selected individuals participated. The findings from both were consistent and positive: students were enthusiastic about the course, found it useful and viewed the experience positively.
Molecular dynamics simulation of diffusion of small atmospheric penetratesin polydimethylsiloxane

Motivated by the development of a microelectromechanical (MEMS) corrosion sensor which utilises a thin polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) membrane as a permeable medium, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation is used to study the diffusion of CH4, N2 and O2 penetrates in uncrosslinked PDMS. Both PDMS and penetrates are modelled within the MD framework using a hybrid coarse-grained interatomic potential; the accuracy of this model and its ability to capture structural aspects of PDMS, including bulk densities and radius of gyration, is evaluated. Diffusion constants and activation energies are computed after reaching steady state using simulation models with ‘long’ and ‘short’ PDMS chains (above and below the entanglement molecular weight of PDMS, respectively). Diffusion coefficients computed using short-chain models are higher than those with long-chain models, due to the presence of molecular entanglements in the long-chain PDMS systems. A linear correlation is found between the natural logarithm of the diffusion ...
Mental Health Integration: Normalizing Team Care

This article examines the impact of integrating mental health into primary health care. Mental Health Integration (MHI) within Intermountain Healthcare has changed the culture of primary health care by standardizing a team-based care process that includes mental health as a normal part of the routine medical encounter. Using a quantitative statistical analysis of qualitative reports (mixed methods study), the study reports on health outcomes associated with MHI for patients and staff. Researchers interviewed 59 patients and 50 staff to evaluate the impact of MHI on depression care. Patients receiving MHI reported an improved relationship with caregivers (P < .001) and improved overall functioning in their lives (P < .01). Staff providing care in MHI reported that patients experienced improved access to mental health care, improved overall patient productivity in daily functions (P < .01), and access to team care (P < .001). As MHI became routine, patients discussed complementary team interventions more frequently (P < .0001). Mental health problems rank second in chronic disease today. MHI offers promising results for improving the quality and cost of effective treatment for chronic disease. This research provides guidelines for organizing mental health care, staff productivity, and patient satisfaction, using a team approach to improve outcomes.
Tim23p contains separate and distinct signals for targeting to mitochondria and insertion into the inner membrane

The Tim23 protein is an essential inner membrane (IM) component of the yeast mitochondrial protein import pathway. Tim23p does not carry an amino-terminal presequence; therefore, the targeting information resides within the mature protein. Tim23p is anchored in the IM via four transmembrane segments and has two positively charged loops facing the matrix. To identify the import signal for Tim23p, we have constructed several altered versions of the Tim23 protein and examined their function and import in yeast cells, as well as their import into isolated mitochondria. We replaced the positively charged amino acids in one or both loops with alanine residues and found that the positive charges are not required for import into mitochondria, but at least one positively charged loop is required for insertion into the IM. Furthermore, we find that the signal to target Tim23p to mitochondria is carried in at least two of the hydrophobic transmembrane segments. Our results suggest that Tim23p contains separate import signals: hydrophobic segments for targeting Tim23p to mitochondria, and positively charged loops for insertion into the IM. We therefore propose that Tim23p is imported into mitochondria in at least two distinct steps.
Defining the molecular components of calcium transport regulation in a reconstituted membrane system.

Using a chemically defined reconstitution system, we performed a systematic study of key factors in the regulation of the Ca-ATPase by phospholamban (PLB). We varied both the lipid/protein and PLB/Ca-ATPase ratios, determined the effects of PLB phosphorylation, and compared the regulatory effects of several PLB mutants, as a function of Ca concentration. The reconstitution system allowed us to determine accurately not only the PLB effects on KCa (Ca concentration at half-maximal activity) of the Ca-ATPase, but also the effects on Vmax (maximal activity). Wild-type PLB (WT-PLB) and two gain- of-function mutants, N27A-PLB and I40A-PLB, showed not only the previously reported increase in KCa, but also an increase in Vmax. Specifically, Vmax increases linearly with the intramembrane PLB concentration, and is approximately doubled when the sample composition approaches that of cardiac SR. Upon phosphorylation of PLB at Ser-16, the KCa effects were almost completely reversed for WT- and N27A- PLB but were only partially reversed for I40A-PLB. Phosphorylation induced a Vmax increase for WT- PLB, and a Vmax decrease for N27A- and I40A-PLB. We conclude that PLB and PLB phosphorylation affect Vmax as well as KCa, and that the magnitude of both effects is sensitive to the PLB concentration in the membrane.
Baroreflex Control of Sympathetic Nerve Activity and Heart Rate in Obstructive Sleep Apnea

-Patients with obstructive sleep apnea are at increased risk for hypertension. The mechanisms underlying this increased risk are not known. We tested the hypothesis that obstructive sleep apnea, independent of factors such as hypertension, obesity, and age, is characterized by impairment of baroreflex sensitivity. We measured muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) and heart rate responses to activation and deactivation of baroreceptors in newly diagnosed, never treated, normotensive patients with obstructive sleep apnea. These responses were compared with those obtained in healthy control subjects closely matched for age, body mass index, and blood pressure. Heart rate and MSNA changes during infusion of phenylephrine (baroreceptor activation) were similar in the control subjects and patients with sleep apnea. Infusion of nitroprusside (baroreceptor deactivation) elicited similar decreases in mean arterial pressure (MAP) but lesser MSNA increases in patients with sleep apnea than in control subjects. Calculation of DeltaMSNA/DeltaMAP ratio revealed that baroreflex regulation of sympathetic activity for similar blood pressure changes was diminished in patients with sleep apnea in comparison to normal control subjects (P=0.01). However, increases in heart rate during nitroprusside infusion were comparable in both groups. Sympathetic, blood pressure and heart rate responses to the cold pressor test were also similar in the 2 groups. Our results indicate that normotensive patients with sleep apnea have a selective impairment of the sympathetic response to baroreceptor deactivation but not to baroreceptor activation or to the cold pressor test. The impairment of baroreflex sympathetic modulation in patients with sleep apnea is not accompanied by any impairment of baroreflex control of heart rate.
Chemoreceptor gene loss and acquisition via horizontal gene transfer in Escherichia coli

ABSTRACT Chemotaxis allows bacteria to more efficiently colonize optimal microhabitats within their larger environment. Chemotaxis in Escherichia coli is the best-studied model system, and a large number of E. coli strains have been sequenced. The Escherichia/Shigella genus encompasses a great variety of commensal and pathogenic strains, but the role of chemotaxis in their association with the host remains poorly understood. Here we show that the core chemotaxis genes are lost in many, but not all, nonmotile strains but are well preserved in all motile strains. The genes encoding the Tar, Tsr, and Aer chemoreceptors, which mediate chemotaxis to a broad spectrum of chemical and physical cues, are also nearly uniformly conserved in motile strains. In contrast, the clade of extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli strains apparently underwent an ancestral loss of Trg and Tap chemoreceptors, which sense sugars, dipeptides, and pyrimidines. The broad range of time estimated for the loss of these genes (1 to 3 million years ago) corresponds to the appearance of the genus Homo.
A theory of runtime enforcement, with results

This paper presents a theory of runtime enforcement based on mechanism models called MRAs (Mandatory Results Automata). MRAs can monitor and transform security-relevant actions and their results. Because previous work could not model monitors transforming results, MRAs capture realistic behaviors outside the scope of previous models. MRAs also have a simple but realistic operational semantics that makes it straightforward to define concrete MRAs. Moreover, the definitions of policies and enforcement with MRAs are significantly simpler and more expressive than those of previous models. Putting all these features together, we argue that MRAs make good general models of runtime mechanisms, upon which a theory of runtime enforcement can be based. We develop some enforceability theory by characterizing the policies MRAs can and cannot enforce.
Epstein–Barr Virus–Positive Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma of the Elderly

This neoplasm meets the histologic criteria for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), is positive for Epstein–Barr virus (EBV+), and is restricted to patients older than 50 years without a history of lymphoma or immunodeficiency. Other types of DLBCL that can be EBV+, such as plasmablastic lymphoma or primary effusion lymphoma, are excluded.
Autistic traits in a population-based ADHD twin sample.

Background: Most diagnostic nomenclatures do not allow for the concurrent diagnosis of autism and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Clinic-based studies suggest autistic symptoms are common in children with ADHD, but such studies are prone to referral bias. This study assesses whether children with ADHD selected from the general twin population have elevated levels of autistic traits. Methods: Nine hundred forty-six twins identified by Missouri birth records were assigned to DSM-IV ADHD diagnoses and seven population-derived ADHD subtypes defined through latent class analysis of DSM-IV ADHD symptoms. The Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) was used as a quantitative measure of autistic traits. Linear regression was used to evaluate whether mean SRS scores differed between ADHD diagnostic groups. Results: Mean SRS scores for DSM-IV predominantly inattentive subtype and combined subtype ADHD groups were significantly higher than for subjects without DSMIV ADHD (p < .001, both comparisons). Five of the population-derived ADHD subtypes (talkativeimpulsive, mild and severe inattentive, mild and severe combined) had significantly higher mean SRS scores compared to the latent class subtype with few ADHD symptoms (p < .001, all comparisons). DSM-IV combined subtype and the population-derived severe combined subtype had the highest mean total SRS scores and the highest mean scores for each of the three autism symptom domains, with a substantial proportion of individuals scoring in the clinically significant range. Conclusions: This study provides population-based evidence for clinically significant elevations of autistic traits in children meeting diagnostic criteria for ADHD. These results have implications for the design and interpretation of studies of both disorders. Keywords: ADHD, autism, PDD, Social Responsiveness Scale.
6-in-1 Silicon carbide power module for high performance of power electronics systems

The excellent characteristics (low power loss, high speed/high temperature operation) of SiC semiconductors can contribute to realizing smaller power converter with a higher power output. Using our own packaging technology of double-sided cooling and SiC devices, we have developed the new, small 6-in-1 power module with high output power density. If the inductance of the main circuit is large, it will cause a large surge voltage when switched. Therefore, we have incorporated the optimum low inductance structure into this module, and have made it possible to drive the SiC device at high speed. Using this module, we have built a prototype of inverter unit with 75 kW output power, and have achieved an efficiency of 99% and a power density of 100 kW/L.
Chemotherapy response and recurrence-free survival in Neoadjuvant breast cancer depends on biomarker profiles: Results from the I-SPY 1 TRIAL (CALGB 150007/150012; ACRIN 6657)

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer allows individual tumor response to be assessed depending on molecular subtype, and to judge the impact of response to therapy on recurrence-free survival (RFS). The multicenter I-SPY 1 TRIAL evaluated patients with ≥ 3 cm tumors by using early imaging and molecular signatures, with outcomes of pathologic complete response (pCR) and RFS. The current analysis was performed using data from patients who had molecular profiles and did not receive trastuzumab. The various molecular classifiers tested were highly correlated. Categorization of breast cancer by molecular signatures enhanced the ability of pCR to predict improvement in RFS compared to the population as a whole. In multivariate analysis, the molecular signatures that added to the ability of HR and HER2 receptors, clinical stage, and pCR in predicting RFS included 70-gene signature, wound healing signature, p53 mutation signature, and PAM50 risk of recurrence. The low risk signatures were associated with significantly better prognosis, and also identified additional patients with a good prognosis within the no pCR group, primarily in the hormone receptor positive, HER-2 negative subgroup. The I-SPY 1 population is enriched for tumors with a poor prognosis but is still heterogeneous in terms of rates of pCR and RFS. The ability of pCR to predict RFS is better by subset than it is for the whole group. Molecular markers improve prediction of RFS by identifying additional patients with excellent prognosis within the no pCR group.
Clinical utility of the Colorado Learning Difficulties Questionnaire.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Behavioral disorders are highly comorbid with childhood learning disabilities (LDs), and accurate identification of LDs is vital for guiding appropriate interventions. However, it is difficult to conduct comprehensive assessment of academic skills within the context of primary care visits, lending utility to screening of academic skills via informant reports. The current study evaluated the clinical utility of a parent-reported screening measure in identifying children with learning difficulties. METHODS: Participants included 440 children (66.7% male), ages 5.25 to 17.83 years (mean = 10.32 years, SD = 3.06 years), referred for neuropsychological assessment. Academic difficulties were screened by parent report using the Colorado Learning Difficulties Questionnaire (CLDQ). Reading and math skills were assessed via individually administered academic achievement measures. Sensitivity, specificity, classification accuracy, and conditional probabilities were calculated to evaluate the efficacy of the CLDQ in predicting academic impairment. RESULTS: Correlations between the CLDQ reading scale and reading achievement measures ranged from −0.35 to −0.65 and from −0.24 to −0.46 between the CLDQ math scale and math achievement measures (all P < .01). Sensitivity was good for both reading and math scales, whereas specificity was low. Taking into account the high base rate of reading and math LDs within our sample, the conditional probability of true negatives (96.2% reading, 85.1% math) was higher than for true positives (40.5% reading, 37.9% math). CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the CLDQ may more accurately predict children without LDs than children with LDs. As such, the absence of parent-reported difficulties may be adequate to rule out an overt LD, whereas elevated scores likely indicate the need for more comprehensive assessment. * Abbreviations: ADHD — : attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder CLDQ — : Colorado Learning Difficulties Questionnaire LD — : learning disability WIAT-III — : Wechsler Individual Achievement Test, Third Edition WJ-III — : Woodcock-Johnson Tests of Achievement, Third Edition
Phylogenetics of Morus (Moraceae) Inferred from ITS and trnL-trnF Sequence Data

Abstract Morus (Tribe Moreae, Moraceae) consists of ca. 13 species of trees distributed in Asia, Africa, Europe, and North, Central, and South America. The broad geographical distribution of the genus, overlapping ranges of many taxa, and documented hybridization between some species present interesting questions of taxonomy, phylogeny, and biogeography. Phylogenetic data for Morus also contribute to higher level taxonomic work in the family. We used sequence data from ITS of the nrDNA and the chloroplast trnL-trnF intergenic spacer to study phylogenetic relationships of Morus. Phylogenies based on separate data sets were not statistically incongruent, and the combined tree reveals that Morus, as currently circumscribed, is non-monophyletic. Subgenus Morus (sensu Leroy) is resolved as a clade and consists of two well-supported clades: one of Asian taxa and one of North American taxa. Sampled members of the genus Trophis (two, including the type) form a clade sister to subgenus Morus. Morus mesozygia (Afri...