cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The importance of DNA methylation for stability of foreign DNA in barley.

We developed a system using ‘passive’ reporter genes driven by aleurone tissue-specific promoters to test the effect of methylation of foreign DNA on its stability after introduction into barley plants. The foreign DNA was introduced into barley cells and was able to persist through at least two plant generations. Transformation of barley cells was defined by showing initiation of transcription at the proper site on the barley promoter for the chimeric gene in aleurone tissue from both a primary transformant and its progeny, and by tissue-specific expression (aleurone > leaf) in the progeny. This persistence through many multiples of cell division is formally equivalent to transformation, regardless of whether the DNA was chromosomally integrated or carried as an episome, but did not necessarily represent stable integration into the genome since the foreign DNA was frequently rearranged or lost. The foreign DNA was most stable when plasmid DNA used in transformation lacked dA methylation but had complete methylation of dC residues in the CG dinucleotide at Hpa II sites; dA methylation alone was associated with marked foreign DNA instability. Our results are consistent with the presence of a previously undefined system in barley that identifies DNA lacking the proper methylation pattern and causes its loss from actively dividing cells. These results may be important when applied to different strategies using selectable markers for cereal transformation.
Surgical treatment of brain metastases in malignant melanoma

The authors report the results of a retrospective review of 13 patients who underwent 19 craniotomies for resection of metastatic malignant melanoma at the University of Colorado (Denver, CO) between 1983 and 1989. There was preoperative evidence of extracranial disease in 11 patients. Eight patients had more than one intracranial metastasis at operation. Intraoperative ultrasound was used in 18 of the 19 craniotomies to minimize surgical trauma to the brain. The 30-day mortality was zero. The 30-day morbidity was minimal. No patient acquired a new neurologic deficit as a result of surgery. All patients regained at least their preoperative level of functioning. Six of the patients who were living at the time of review have been followed for 4 to 25 months (median, 7.5 months). The seven patients who were dead at the time of review survived 4 to 18 months (median, 10 months). These results compare favorably with the survival of untreated patients with metastatic melanoma to the brain (median, 1 month), patients treated with radiation therapy alone (median, 2-4 months), and those treated with chemotherapy alone (median, 2-4 months). The excision of metastatic melanoma from the brain, although not curative, may increase survival in patients with this problem with little morbidity and mortality even in the presence of other metastases.
Structure, formation mechanisms and kinetics of reaction-bonded silicon nitride

This paper reports on models which have been developed to explain the formation mechanism and kinetics of the major microconstituents of reaction-bonded silicon nitride. These models are based on information obtained from a detailed microstructural study during various stages of reaction and a knowledge of the reaction conditions which encourage formation of each particular microconstituent. It has become clear that there are at least two independent mechanisms and that they are governed by independent rate laws. The kinetics of nitridation of a silicon compact is, therefore, the superposition of at least two independent rate laws. Experimental evidence obtained thus far is in good agreement with this hypothesis.
Formation of a native-like subdomain in a partially folded intermediate of bovine pancreatic trypsin inhibitor

In the folding of bovine pancreatic trypsin inhibitor (BPTI), the single-disulfide intermediate [30-51] plays a key role. We have investigated a recombinant analog of [30-51] using a 2-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance (2D-NMR). This recombinant analog, named [30-51]Ala, contains a disulfide bond between Cys-30 and Cys-51, but contains alanine in place of the other cysteines in BPTI to prevent the formation of other intermediates. By 2D-NMR, [30-51]Ala consists of 2 regions-one folded and one predominantly unfolded. The folded region resembles a previously characterized peptide model of [30-51], named P alpha P beta, that contains a native-like subdomain with tertiary packing. The unfolded region includes the first 14 N-terminal residues of [30-51] and is as unfolded as an isolated peptide containing these residues. Using protein dissection, we demonstrate that the folded and unfolded regions of [30-51]Ala are structurally independent. The partially folded structure of [30-51]Ala explains many of the properties of authentic [30-51] in the folding pathway of BPTI. Moreover, direct structural characterization of [30-51]Ala has revealed that a crucial step in the folding pathway of BPTI coincides with the formation of a native-like subdomain, supporting models for protein folding that emphasize the formation of cooperatively folded subdomains.
Radiative Phenomena in CW Laser Annealing

Recrystallization of thin semiconductor films can yield improved electrical and crystalline properties. Recrystallization is often effected by using a laser source to melt the semiconductor film, which has been deposited on an amorphous insulating substrate. Although temperature measurement data would be valuable for the processing of materials on a microscopic scale, very few such measurements have been presented. It is the intent of this paper to demonstrate work toward the development of completely noninvasive experimental methods for in situ quantitative analysis of the laser annealing process, based on the acquisition of surface radiative data.
Distant Magnets: Expectations and Realities in the Immigrant Experience, 1840-1930

This volume documents experiences of the many peasant and working-class emigrants from England, Ireland, Scandinavia, Italy, Austria, Poland, Hungary, Yugoslavia, and East European Jewish communities. The comparative perspectives enables the authors to distinguish similarities and differences among diverse immigrant groups, experiences, and destinations. Drawing on rare first-hand accounts and moving personal documents--letters, diaries, guidebooks, the labour and immigrant press, songs, poems, plays, novels--essays chronicle the psychological and social as well as economic and politics aspects of the immigrant experience. Evoking the rich texture and diversity of immigrant experience and mentalities, this unique and engaging work makes an important contribution to our understanding of the complex processes of migration and acculturation.
Dyson's equation for a medium possessing uniaxial anisotropic fluctuations

Dyson's equation for the mean electromagnetic-field quantities excited by a point source embedded in a medium having uniaxial anisotropic fluctuations was recently developed by devising a binary summing procedure. An alternative and simpler indexing scheme is now presented.
Plasma reactor &#8212; A complete IC factory ?

Parallel plate (planar) plasma reactors have been demonstrated to be capable of performing all of the material removal processes necessary for fabricating integrated circuits. Coupled with the recognized high quality of plasma deposited dielectric films for masking, insulation, and passivation applications, the "one machine" IC factory becomes an intriguing possibility. In this paper we will trace a typical IC process flow from mask making to final packaging. Real world results and problems will be stressed in connection with cleaning, oxidation, composition, uniformity and step coverage in film deposition, edge definition, selectivity, undercutting and side effects in etching. Process control requirements and the necessity of coupling new process specifications into product design at the earliest stages will be discussed. Speculation on future developments will also be presented.
FAST4WARD: implications for the clinician.

December 2008 marked the tenth anniversary of the US Federal Drug Administration's (FDA) approval of etanercept, a recombinant fusion protein combining the soluble tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) receptor with the Fc component of human immunoglobulin IgG1, for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Since the approval of etanercept, two monoclonal antibodies directed against TNFα ― infliximab (chimeric) and adalimumab (fully human) have also been FDA approved for RA. Used alone or in combination with other disease modifying antirheumatic agents (DMARDs) such as methotrexate, the anti-TNFα agents have revolutionised the treatment of RA, resulting in rapid and sustained clinical responses over time for the many patients afflicted with this chronic inflammatory disease (1).
Efficiency characterization and thermal study of GaN based 1 kW inverter

Rapid advancement of gallium nitride (GaN) based device technologies enables the possibility to design inverters that have superior performance capabilities compared to Si-based inverters. It is prevalently acknowledged that GaN-based switching devices outperform the Si-based counterparts in many aspects such as lower power consumption, and faster switching frequencies. GaN devices will benefit many applications such as hybrid and plug-in electric vehicles, solar power inverters, industrial motor drives, and aerospace. Nevertheless, the superiorities of GaN devices in inverter design have not been fully explored by researchers, and the purpose of this paper is to evaluate the high-efficiency capabilities of inverters that can be achieved using these new devices and the resulting benefits on the thermal aspect. As a case study, 1 kW GaN FETs inverter is considered. Loss and efficiency analysis is performed under various load conditions, and the requirements on heat sink for various ambient temperatures are specified according to the loss values obtained. Analysis results are compared with conventional Si-based inverters.
Polarized optical vortex solitons: Instabilities and dynamics in Kerr nonlinear media

Abstract Optical vortex solitons are known to be stable in a scalar nonlinear system, and they have even been observed. We now explore the effects of polarization on the vortices, and find that they are unstable in Kerr defocusing media, except when the beam is circularly polarized. Numerical simulations verify this and show remarkable beam evolution, including vortex shedding and reversal of topological charge.
A Computational Analysis of Interaction Patterns in the Acquisition of Turkish

We provide a corpus-based computational approach to analyzing acquisition data on Turkish, a richly inflected language. We describe the process by which transcripts from the CHILDES database for 16 children aged 2;0 to 3;0 were morphologically tagged and parsed. We computed a number of imitation, overlap, and repetition measures on the transcripts using CLAN and CHIP programs. These measures tended to decrease as a function of mean length of utterance, which was broadly consistent with previously published work on English-speaking children. The data also revealed additional usage patterns, where the adult utterances provided children with rich morphosyntax in the input, while at the same time helping them to maintain discourse. Children on the other hand, tended to omit optional constituents and repeat morphemes from the previous utterance. The Turkish data and previously published English data showed cross-linguistic differences in repetition patterns that were congruent with the typological differences between the two languages. More generally, the data were consistent with a usage-based model for the acquisition of Turkish as a first language. The corpora and methods provided here can be extended to future applications.
Analysis of CYP21 coding polymorphisms in three ethnic populations: further evidence of nonamplifying CYP21 alleles among whites.

Background: Adrenal steroid 21-hydroxylase is essential for the synthesis of both mineralocorticoids and glucocorticoids. The gene for this enzyme, CYP21, contains several frequent coding polymorphisms. Because of its essential function in steroid synthesis, polymorphisms in this enzyme might influence a variety of disease processes. However, before disease-association studies are performed, it is important to understand the frequency of these polymorphisms among normal individuals.
Conceptualizing human understanding: Gadamer's hermeneutics and American communication studies

American descriptions of the communicative process differ from hermeneutic descriptions in their assumed conception of human understanding. American studies have generally assumed a “reproductive” view of understanding — trying to discover means for avoiding intersubjective misunderstandings by eliminating prejudices. Gadamer presented a “productive” view — trying to increase understanding by developing a positive concept of prejudice and presenting the interaction structure as more fundamental than the interactants. Developing an American hermeneutic consciousness along the model characterized by Gadamer not only places in perspective the view of American scholars but reveals alternatives to current research inadequacies and, thus, has implications for future communication studies.
Lipid rafts: Keys to neurodegeneration

The increase in life expectancy seen in many countries has been accompanied by an increase in the number of people living with dementia and a growing need for health care. The large number of affected individuals emphasizes the need to identify causes for the phenotypes associated with diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Huntington's, and those caused by prions. This review addresses the hypothesis that changes in lipid rafts induced by alterations in their ganglioside and/or cholesterol content or the interaction of mutant proteins with them provide the keys to understanding the onset of neurodegeneration that can lead to dementia. The biological function(s) of raft-associated gangliosides and cholesterol are discussed prior to reviewing what is known about their roles in lipid rafts in the aforementioned diseases. It concludes with some questions that need to be addressed in order to provide investigators with the basis for identifying small molecule agonists or antagonists to test as potential therapeutics.
R&D project selection

Abstract The research and development project selection decision is concerned with the allocation of resources to a set of proposals for scientific and engineering activities. The project selection process can be viewed as a multiple-criteria decision-making problem, within the context of the long-range and strategic planning process of the firm. The purpose of this paper is explore the applicability of several approaches, including the Analytic Hierarchy Process, for priority setting and resource allocation in the industrial R&D environment. The incorporation of these models into expert support systems for R&D project selection is discussed.
Mayven induces c-Jun expression and cyclin D1 activation in breast cancer cells

Mayven is a member of the kelch-related superfamily of proteins, characterized by a series of 'kelch' repeats at their carboxyl terminus and a BTB/POZ domain at their NH 2 -terminus. Little is known about the role of Mayven in cancer. Here, we report that Mayven expression was abundant and diffuse in primary human epithelial breast tumor cells as compared to normal breast epithelial cells, where Mayven was detected in the normal breast layer of the mammary ducts. Overexpression of Mayven resulted in an induction of c-Jun protein levels, as well as increased AP-1 (activating protein 1) transcriptional activity in MCF-7 and T47D breast cancer cells through its BTB/ POZ domain. Furthermore, Mayven activated c-Jun N-terminal kinase in breast cancer cells. Mayven, through its BTB/POZ domain, induced cyclin Dl expression and cyclin Dl promoter activity and promoted cell cycle progression from the G1 to S phase. MCF-7 cells transduced with the recombinant retroviral sense Mayven (pMIG-W-Mayven) showed significant induction of c-Jun and cyclin Dl mRNA expression and activities as compared to the retroviral vector alone, while MCF-7 cells transduced by the recombinant retroviral antisense Mayven (pMIG-W-Mayven-AS) demonstrated a significant decrease in c-Jun and cyclin D1 expression and activities. Given the crucial functions of cyclin D1 and AP-1 signaling in oncogenesis, our results strongly suggest that overexpression of Mayven may promote tumor growth through c-Jun and cyclin D1.
Experimental and Theoretical Studies of the Activation of Methane by Ta

A guided-ion-beam tandem mass spectrometer is used to study atomic tantalum cations reacting with CH4 and CD4. Like other third-row transition metal ions, W+, Os+, Ir+, and Pt+, the dehydrogenation reaction to form TaCH2+ + H2 is exothermic. At higher energies, other products, TaH+, TaCH+, and TaCH3+, are observed with TaH+ dominating the product spectrum. Modeling of the endothermic cross sections provides the 0 K bond dissociation energies (in eV) of D0(Ta +−CH) = 5.82 ± 0.16 and D0(Ta+−CH3) = 2.69 ± 0.14 eV. We also examined the reverse reaction, TaCH2+ + H2 → Ta+ + CH4, and its isotopic equivalent, TaCH2+ + D2. By combining the cross sections for the forward and reverse processes, an equilibrium constant for this reaction is derived, from which D0(Ta +−CH2) = 4.81 ± 0.03 eV is obtained. The Ta +−H and Ta +−CH3 experimental bond energies are in reasonable agreement with density functional calculations at the BHLYP/HW+/6-311++G(3df,3p) level of theory, whereas the Ta +−CH and Ta+−CH2 bond energies are p...
Thermodynamic Analysis of the Selectivity Enhancement Obtained by Using Smart Hydrogels That Are Zwitterionic When Detecting Glucose With Boronic Acid Moieties.

Abstract Because the boronic acid moiety reversibly binds to sugar molecules and has low cytotoxicity, boronic acid-containing hydrogels are being used in a variety of implantable glucose sensors under development, including sensors based on optical, fluorescence, and swelling pressure measurements. However, some method of glucose selectivity enhancement is often necessary, because isolated boronic acid molecules have a binding constant with glucose that is some 40 times smaller than their binding constant with fructose, the second most abundant sugar in the human body. In many cases, glucose selectivity enhancement is obtained by incorporating pendant tertiary amines into the hydrogel network, thereby giving rise to a hydrogel that is zwitterionic at physiological pH. However, the mechanism by which incorporation of tertiary amines confers selectivity enhancement is poorly understood. In order to clarify this mechanism, we use the osmotic deswelling technique to compare the thermodynamic interactions of glucose and fructose with a zwitterionic smart hydrogel containing boronic acid moieties. We also investigate the change in the structure of the hydrogel that occurs when it binds to glucose or to fructose using the technique of small angle neutron scattering.
Cold Cook Methods: An Ethnographic Exploration on the Myths of Methamphetamine Production and Policy Implications

Background Urban legends and myths are prevalent in drug-use environments. However, the distinction between myth and fact is not always clear. We found contradictory claims regarding the emergence of cold cook methods for producing methamphetamine when contrasting user-generated reports with official reports repudiating such methods as myths. Our aim is to open the topic for more academic discussion.
RHYOLITE ASH‐FLOW PLATEAUS, RING‐DIKE COMPLEXES, CALDERAS, LOPOLITHS, AND MOON CRATERS*

Data supporting idea that terrestrial volcano- tectonic depressions resembling Moon craters exist, noting Mogollon plateau in New Mexico
Novel tumor sampling strategies to enable microarray gene expression signatures in breast cancer: a study to determine feasibility and reproducibility in the context of clinical care

Feasibility and reproducibility of microarray biomarkers in clinical settings are doubted because of reliance on fresh frozen tissue. We sought to develop and validate a paradigm of frozen tissue collection from early breast tumors to enable use of microarray in oncology practice. Frozen core needle biopsies (CNBx) were collected from 150 clinical stage I patients during image-guided diagnostic biopsy and/or surgery. Histology and tumor content from frozen cores were compared to diagnostic specimens. Twenty-eight patients had microarray analysis to examine accuracy and reproducibility of predictive gene signatures developed for estrogen receptor (ER) and HER2. One hundred twenty-seven (85%) of 150 patients had at least one frozen core containing cancer suitable for microarray analysis. Larger tumor size, ex vivo biopsy, and use of a new specimen device increased the likelihood of obtaining adequate specimens. Sufficient quality RNA was obtained from 90% of tumor cores. Microarray signatures predicting ER and HER2 expression were developed in training sets of up to 363 surgical samples and were applied to microarray data obtained from core samples collected in clinical settings. In these samples, prediction of ER and HER2 expression achieved a sensitivity/specificity of 94%/100%, and 82%/72%, respectively. Predictions were reproducible in 83-100% of paired samples. Frozen CNBx can be readily obtained from most breast cancers without interfering with pathologic evaluation in routine clinical settings. Collection of tumor tissue at diagnostic biopsy and/or at surgery from lumpectomy specimens using image guidance resulted in sufficient samples for array analysis from over 90% of patients. Sampling of breast cancer for microarray data is reproducible and feasible in clinical practice and can yield signatures predictive of multiple breast cancer phenotypes.
Control of pheromone biosynthesis in mated redbanded leafroller moths

Mating in the redbanded leafroller moth, Argyrotaenia velutinana, causes a permanent decline in pheromone titers. Three hours following the termination of mating, phermone titers were significantly decreased from premating levels, and titers remained low for at least four days after mating. Pheromone titers were similar in females that had been decapitated or mated for twenty-four hours. In the redbanded leafroller moth, two peptides control pheromone production. The pheromone biosynthesis activating neuropeptide is produced in the brain and the pheromonotropic bursa peptide is produced in the corpus bursae. Both peptides stimulated pheromone biosynthesis in mated females and extracts prepared from brains and bursae of mated females contained pheromonotropic activity. However, severing the ventral nerve cord before mating prevented the decline in pheromone titer that occurred in mated females. Hemolymph collected during scotophase from mated females did not have pheromonotropic activity, whereas hemolymph collected during scotophase from virgin females contained activity. These results indicate that mating produces a signal sent by the ventral nerve cord to the brain to stop the release of pheromone biosynthesis activating neuropeptide. © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Trial to Evaluate the Management of PSVT During Electrophysiologic Study with Tecadenoson (TEMPEST)

Introduction: Tecadenoson, a selective A1 adenosine derivative,prolongs AV nodal conduction without A2-mediated reductions in BP or A2B/A3-mediated bronchospasm. The primary study objective was to assess the rate of therapeutic conversion of PSVT without high degree AV block. Methods: This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study enrolled PSVT patients in need of electrophysiologic study. PSVT was induced, sustained for ≥2 minutes and first IV bolus of study drug administered. If PSVT persisted after 1 minute, a second bolus was administered. The five tecadenoson regimens were 75μg/150μg (A), 150μg/300μg (B), 300μg/600μg (C), 450μg/900μg (D), 900μg/900μg (E) vs placebo. Results: Therapeutic conversion rate of each tecadenoson regimen was statistically significant versus placebo (ITT; n = 181; p < 0.0005). Higher regimens converted PSVT after the first dose in most patients (p < 0.001). Median time to conversion was ≤1 minute. No apparent dose-dependent increase in AE frequency was observed. Conclusion: Each tecadenoson regimen rapidly converted PSVT to sinus rhythm in a dose-dependent manner. In TEMPEST, tecadenoson regimens were identified that rapidly converted 90% of patients without significant adverse symptoms or hemodynamic effects.
Technique for Monitoring Densification during Chemical Vapor Infiltration

A new technique for studying the progression of densification during the fabrication of composites by chemical vapor nfiltration is presented. The preparation of a carbon-matrix composite was investigated by momentarily inter-rupting, at various times, the carbon infiltration process to permit deposition of very thin layers of SiC. Microscopic examination of these layers on a polished cross section per-mitted determination of the extent of infiltration at various locations within the preform as a function of infiltration time. The technique also distinguishes open from closed pores and provides information on the existence of temperature gradients within the preform.
Prevalence and drivers of HIV stigma among health providers in urban India: implications for interventions.

Introduction : HIV stigma inflicts hardship and suffering on people living with HIV (PLHIV) and interferes with both prevention and treatment efforts. Health professionals are often named by PLHIV as an important source of stigma. This study was designed to examine rates and drivers of stigma and discrimination among doctors, nurses and ward staff in different urban healthcare settings in high HIV prevalence states in India. Methods : This cross-sectional study enrolled 305 doctors, 369 nurses and 346 ward staff in both governmental and non-governmental healthcare settings in Mumbai and Bengaluru, India. The approximately one-hour long interviews focused on knowledge related to HIV transmission, personal and professional experiences with PLHIV, instrumental and symbolic stigma, endorsement of coercive policies, and intent to discriminate in professional and personal situations that involve high and low risk of fluid exposure. Results : High levels of stigma were reported by all groups. This included a willingness to prohibit female PLHIV from having children (55 to 80%), endorsement of mandatory testing for female sex workers (94 to 97%) and surgery patients (90 to 99%), and stating that people who acquired HIV through sex or drugs ‘‘got what they deserved’’ (50 to 83%). In addition, 89% of doctors, 88% of nurses and 73% of ward staff stated that they would discriminate against PLHIV in professional situations that involved high likelihood of fluid exposure, and 57% doctors, 40% nurses and 71% ward staff stated that they would do so in low-risk situations as well. Significant and modifiable drivers of stigma and discrimination included having less frequent contact with PLHIV, and a greater number of transmission misconceptions, blame, instrumental and symbolic stigma. Participants in all three groups reported high rates of endorsement of coercive measures and intent to discriminate against PLHIV. Stigma and discrimination were associated with multiple modifiable drivers, which are consistent with previous research, and which need to be targeted in future interventions. Conclusions : Stigma reduction intervention programmes targeting healthcare providers in urban India need to address fear of transmission, improve universal precaution skills, and involve PLHIV at all stages of the intervention to reduce symbolic stigma and ensure that relevant patient interaction skills are taught. Keywords : HIV stigma; stigma drivers; healthcare workers; India. (Published: 13 November 2013) Citation : Ekstrand ML et al. Journal of the International AIDS Society 2013, 16 (Suppl 2):18717 http://www.jiasociety.org/index.php/jias/article/view/18717 | http://dx.doi.org/10.7448/IAS.16.3.18717
Effect of Solvent and pH on the Structure of PAMAM Dendrimers

We report various structural and conformational properties of generations 4, 5, and 6 PAMAM (polyamidoamine) dendrimer [EDA (ethylenediamine) core)] at various protonation levels through extensive molecular dynamics (MD) simulations in explicit solvent. The presence of solvent leads to swelling of the dendrimer (by 33% for G5 compared to the case of no solvent). We find that decreasing the solution from high pH (∼10, no protonation) to neutral (∼7, only primary amines protonated) to low pH (∼4, tertiary amines also protonated) changes the radius of gyration of G5 from 21 to 22 to 25 A, respectively. We also report such other structural quantities as radial density, distribution of terminal groups, solvent accessible surface area and volume, shape, and structure factors (to compare with SAXS and SANS experiments) at various pH conditions. We find significant back-folding of the outer subgenerations in the interior of the molecules at all levels of pH, contrary to original expectations and some SANS experiments but in agreement with other SANS experiments. We find significant water penetration inside the dendrimer, with ∼3 water/tertiary amine for high pH and ∼6 water/tertiary amine for low pH (all for G5). This indicates that the interior of the dendrimer is quite open with internal cavities available for accommodating guest molecules, suggesting using PAMAM dendrimer for guest−host applications. This estimate of internal waters suggests that sufficient water is available to facilitate metal ion binding.
Ebola Virus VP24 Targets a Unique NLS Binding Site on Karyopherin Alpha 5 to Selectively Compete with Nuclear Import of Phosphorylated STAT1.

During antiviral defense, interferon (IFN) signaling triggers nuclear transport of tyrosine-phosphorylated STAT1 (PY-STAT1), which occurs via a subset of karyopherin alpha (KPNA) nuclear transporters. Many viruses, including Ebola virus, actively antagonize STAT1 signaling to counteract the antiviral effects of IFN. Ebola virus VP24 protein (eVP24) binds KPNA to inhibit PY-STAT1 nuclear transport and render cells refractory to IFNs. We describe the structure of human KPNA5 C terminus in complex with eVP24. In the complex, eVP24 recognizes a unique nonclassical nuclear localization signal (NLS) binding site on KPNA5 that is necessary for efficient PY-STAT1 nuclear transport. eVP24 binds KPNA5 with very high affinity to effectively compete with and inhibit PY-STAT1 nuclear transport. In contrast, eVP24 binding does not affect the transport of classical NLS cargo. Thus, eVP24 counters cell-intrinsic innate immunity by selectively targeting PY-STAT1 nuclear import while leaving the transport of other cargo that may be required for viral replication unaffected.
Pilot study of a novel tool for input-free automated identification of transition zone prostate tumors using T2- and diffusion-weighted signal and textural features.

Purpose To present results of a pilot study to develop software that identifies regions suspicious for prostate transition zone (TZ) tumor, free of user input. Materials and Methods Eight patients with TZ tumors were used to develop the model by training a Naive Bayes classifier to detect tumors based on selection of most accurate predictors among various signal and textural features on T2-weighted imaging (T2WI) and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) maps. Features tested as inputs were: average signal, signal standard deviation, energy, contrast, correlation, homogeneity and entropy (all defined on T2WI); and average ADC. A forward selection scheme was used on the remaining 20% of training set supervoxels to identify important inputs. The trained model was tested on a different set of ten patients, half with TZ tumors. Results In training cases, the software tiled the TZ with 4 × 4-voxel “supervoxels,” 80% of which were used to train the classifier. Each of 100 iterations selected T2WI energy and average ADC, which therefore were deemed the optimal model input. The two-feature model was applied blindly to the separate set of test patients, again without operator input of suspicious foci. The software correctly predicted presence or absence of TZ tumor in all test patients. Furthermore, locations of predicted tumors corresponded spatially with locations of biopsies that had confirmed their presence. Conclusion Preliminary findings suggest that this tool has potential to accurately predict TZ tumor presence and location, without operator input. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2014;40:301–305 © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Patient Experience With the Mental Health System: A Focus on Integrated Care Solutions

OBJECTIVE: To discuss the benefits of working with a multidisciplinary team from the patient and family perspective. SUMMARY: According to patients and their families, stigma is the primary barrier hindering treatment for depression and is followed by a web of access to care, mental health parity, and medication issues. The Mental Health Integration program strives to eliminate these barriers by emphasizing consumer- or patient-driven treatment, family support, and community-based solutions. CONCLUSION: Working with a recovery model—“You are not alone, treatment works, recovery is possible, and there is hope”—the National Alliance on Mental Illness brings the family and consumer voice into the Mental Health Integration program, with the intention of effecting more widespread impact.
Modeling phosphorus retention at low concentrations in Florida Everglades mesocosms

Abstract Reducing phosphorus (P) concentration in surface water is a primary component of the ongoing effort to restore the Florida Everglades. Engineered wetlands are currently being used to retain P from stormwater inflows but are not consistently achieving outflow P concentration goals. A three-year mesocosm study was performed investigating the effects of different plant communities on P retention within engineered wetlands. A dynamic model was constructed in the high-level simulation software STELLA, using water, soil, weather, and plant data from this mesocosm study. The model consists of three interconnected submodels: plant growth, hydrology, and P dynamics. The model simulates processes in water and soil related to all four forms of P: dissolved organic, dissolved inorganic, particulate organic, and particulate inorganic. Model verification and subsequent calibration was performed using biweekly outflow water quality data from a mesocosm containing a submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) community consisting of Najas guadalupensis and the algae Chara sp. Model validation was then conducted using data from separate mesocosms with three different plant communities: monocultures of Typha domingensis or Cladium jamaicense, and a combination of Nymphaea odorata and SAV. The model was able to simulate outflow concentrations of total phosphorus from all four plant communities with average relative errors of less than 35%. A sensitivity analysis revealed the relative importance of the various processes involved in the retention of all P forms and the effects of different vegetation communities on these processes. Further simulations were run to predict the outflow total P concentrations for an additional year beyond the end of the mesocosm study.
Aggressive Metaplastic Carcinoma of the Breast with Osteoclastic Giant Cells

Metaplastic carcinoma of the breast is an uncommon type of malignancy that is aggressive but can mimic other benign breast neoplastic processes on imaging. We present a case of a young female patient who presented with a rapidly progressing metaplastic carcinoma with osteoclastic giant cells subtype. There have been only very rare published reports of this pathologic subtype of metaplastic carcinoma containing osteoclastic giant cells.
Amino acid composition of an Africanized honey bee (Hymenoptera: Apidae) specific protein

SUMMARYAbout 1200 pmol of an Africanized honey bee specific protein, known as AMP–2, was successfully isolated from the thoraces of 90 Africanized honey bees (Apis mellifera) from Mexico. This protein has a molecular weight of about 48 kDa and an isoelectric point of about 5.7. Preliminary characterization of this protein by amino acid analysis suggested that it contains 16 amino acids, yielding about 432 residues.
Targeting the WRN Locus in the mouse

Werner syndrome (WS) is an autosomal recessive disorder typified by many symptoms of premature aging. The gene defective in WS, WRN, has been cloned and encodes a novel member of the RecQ DNA helicase family. Here the cloning of a highly conserved murine homolog of WRN, mWRN, is described. Unlike the human WRN protein, which is concentrated in the nucleolus, mWRN is distributed throughout the nucleus. Mice lacking the mWRN protein are viable and fertile and fail to demonstrate any signs of premature aging. Mutant fibroblasts senesce earlier than wild type. mWRN−/−; p53−/− animals show increased mortality relative to mWRN+/−; p53−/− mice. Possible reasons for the discrepancies between the WRN knockout mouse described here and that generated by others are discussed, as well as explanations for the differences in phenotypic consequences between WS in humans and targeted mutations in mWRN in the mouse.
Improved Design and Characterization of MicroNewton Torsional Balance Thrust Stand

Torsional balance thrust stands are in common use for performance measurement of small thrusters in the microNewton to milliNewton thrust ranges. Due to their mechanical nature these stands must be calibrated regularly to minimize drift caused by external factors such as ambient temperature change and internal variations such as inertial differences in test articles. Common calibration methods include electrostatics, linear induction motors, and piezoelectric impulse comparison, all of which in turn must be initially calibrated for force. The thrust stand in the High Vacuum Lab at Purdue University utilizes an electrostatic fin assembly originally calibrated with repeatability errors less than 3% at forces over 50 μN. The need for more accurate measurements, in particular, for a MEMS microthruster array characterization and sensing of Knudsen thermal force at low pressures, prompted a campaign of recalibration and reconfiguration to achieve better performance to values less than 10 μN. The main goals of this paper are to present the improved design of the microNewton thrust stand and characterize its performance for measurement of Knudsen thermal force and thrust performance of a microfabricated thruster array.
Badger culling extensions

Robin Hargreaves, the BVA President, comments: Mark Jones and colleagues have made a number of comments and raised questions in relation to the BVA's recent statement on the CVO's advice to ministers regarding the extension to the badger culls in the two pilot areas. As has been reported extensively in Veterinary Record and elsewhere, the BVA supported the pilot culls to determine whether controlled shooting could deliver a badger cull humanely and safely, and to the same degree of effectiveness as cage trapping and shooting, which was used in the Randomised Badger Culling Trial (RBCT). We …
Masticator muscle enhancement in subacute denervation atrophy.

Atrophy of the muscles of mastication is a well known indirect sign of damage to the mandibular division of the trigeminal nerve (V3). Because V3 motor palsy is difficult to diagnose clinically, computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of the head and neck often provide the only evidence of masticator space muscle atrophy (1). This finding, in turn, should alert the physician to the possibility of head and neck neoplasm or brain stem abnormality. The imaging characteristics of denervation atrophy have been well described previously (1‐3). We present a case of enhancement of atrophic muscles of mastication in a patient with a history of pontine hemorrhage.
Parametric analysis of fluidic energy harvesters in grid turbulence

Even though it is omnipresent in nature, there has not been much research in the literature involving turbulence as an energy source for piezoelectric fluidic harvesters. In the present work, a grid-generated turbulence forcing function model which we derived previously is employed in the single degree-of-freedom electromechanical equations to find the power output and tip displacement of piezoelectric cantilever beams. Additionally, we utilize simplified, deterministic models of the turbulence forcing function to obtain closed-form expressions for the power output. These theoretical models are studied using experiments that involve separately placing a hot-wire anemometer probe and a short PVDF beam in flows where turbulence is generated by means of passive and semi-passive grids. From a parametric study of the deterministic models, we show that a white noise forcing function best mimics the experimental data. Furthermore, our parametric study of the response spectrum of a generic fluidic harvester in gr...
132 STANDARDIZED NASAL CANNULA ORDER SETS DECREASE OXYGEN DAYS IN INFANTS < 1,500 G.

A standardized approach to weaning supplemental nasal cannula oxygen more quickly and consistently was undertaken in an attempt to minimize oxygen exposure in infants convalescing in the NICU at Emanuel Children9s Hospital. All nasal cannula support is administered with blended oxygen at this institution, so two parameters can be weaned: flow and oxygen tension. There is often confusion among the staff as to which parameter to wean consistently, leading to prolonged days on supplemental oxygen. Standardized order sets with weaning guidelines illustrated by flow diagram were developed. A 3-month pilot study was undertaken. All infants admitted to the NICU requiring nasal cannula oxygen were eligible. Infants with cyanotic heart disease were excluded. Data were prospectively collected on infants managed with nasal cannula order sets. Infants in the experimental group (NCO) were then compared with infants placed on nasal cannula without order sets (controls) from the same time period the year before. Infants were stratified by birth weight (≤ 1,500 g ≥ 1,501 g). There were 31 patients in the control group and 23 patients in the NCO group. There were 12 control patients ≤ 1,500 g and 11 NCO patients ≤ 1,500 g. Data were analyzed using Student t tests (p Results Nasal cannula oxygen days were much lower for the NCO group (4.5 d ± 2.6 d) versus the control group (8.4 d ± 4.8 d) for all infants in the study (big and small), but the difference was not statistically significant (p
Alliance Portfolios: Value Creation and Governance Mechanism

We argue that alliance portfolios is the product of the most basic demand of one firm's strategic behavior,and its aim is to seek to expand the value creation space,the value of innovation or reconstruction.Value creation and value appropriation is the two important aspects in the firm's consideration.According to the value creation mechanism,alliance portfolios strategy applies not only to high-endowment firms but also to weaker-endowment firms.To get alliance portfolios strategy's objective,a firm must build perfect governance mechanisms and these mechanisms are essentially the rules and norms of interaction between the firm and its partners,some interface rules.Transaction governance is hard interface or the soft rule of the interface,relationship governance can be seen as soft interface or the soft rule of the interface.Knowledge governance is to promote the exchange and share of knowledge and information among partners,and partner adjustment makes the strategy adaptable.
Analysis on the effect of implementation of 10-year tuberculosis prevention and control program in Guizhou Province

Objective To analyze the effect of tuberculosis prevention and control program in Guizhou Province from 2001 to 2011,so as to discuss sustainable development of tuberculosis prevention and control work in future. Methods We collected various reports and evaluation data related to tuberculosis prevention and control program. Then we also analyzed the effect of implementation of the program. Results The funds invested by governments increased from 451, 500 Yuan in 2001 to 18.3069 million Yuan in 2010, with a 40.5 times increment. The number of equipment for tuberculosis prevention and control in 2010 was9.5 times as in 2001. Tuberculosis prevention and control institutions at all levels were gradually established, and the number of personnel in county-level institutions increased 237.6%(461/194) from 2001 to 2005. 295 519 tuberculosis patients and 123 198 infectious tuberculosis patients were registered and treated in tuberculosis prevention and control institutions from 2002 to 2010.The ratio of smear-positive patients to retreatment in smear-positive patients showed a declining trend from 2002 to 2010. Among the 123 409 smear-positive patients registered by tuberculosis prevention and control institutions from 2002 to 2010, 106 102 patients were cured, and cure rate was 85.97%. Trend chi-square(χ2=1373.377, P=1373.377) showed that the curative effect for smear-positive patients was becoming better year by year. After the implementation of the program, the death number of people caused by pulmonary TB reduced by 61 496 from 2002 to 2010, and 746 505 healthy people avoided being unnecessarily infected.Also, we avoided 74 650 new tuberculosis patients. Besides, 50.8556 million Yuan of medical expenses were saved, and social and economic benefits for the society reached to six billion. Conclusion The tasks of tuberculosis prevention and control program are finished as scheduled, and the aim of high discovery rate and cure rate is achieved and the effect of prevention and control is remarkable.
Direct Interconversion of BINOL and H8-BINOL-Based Chiral Brønsted Acids Using Single-Step Red/Ox Manipulations

A direct single-step hydrogenation of BINOL-based chiral phosphoric acids, N-triflyl phosphoramides, and disulfonimides to the corresponding H8-BINOL Bronsted acids in excellent yields and chemoselectivities is described. In addition, the conditions for the single-step oxidation of H8-BINOL-based Bronsted acids into the corresponding BINOL-based acids have been identified and employed to accomplish these interconversions in 41–81% yield.
NUANCE: A SOFTWARE TOOL FOR CAPTURING SYNCHRONOUS DATA STREAMS FROM MULTIMODAL MUSICAL SYSTEMS

In this paper we describe Nuance, a software application for recording synchronous data streams from modern musical systems that involve audio and gesture signals. Nuance currently supports recording data from a number of input sources including real-time audio, and any sensor system, musical interface, or instrument which outputs serial, Open Sound Control (OSC), or MIDI. Nuance is unique in that it is a highly customizable to the user and unknown musical systems for music information retrieval (MIR), allowing virtually any multimodal input to be recorded with minimal effort. Targeted toward musicians working with MIR researchers, Nuance considerably minimizes the set-up and running times of MIR data acquisition scenarios. Nuance attempts to eliminate most of the software programming required to gather data from custom multimodal systems, and provides an easy dragand-drop user interface for setting up, configuring, and recording synchronous multimodal data streams.