cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Mutations in the Putative Zinc-Binding Motif of UL52 Demonstrate a Complex Interdependence between the UL5 and UL52 Subunits of the Human Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 Helicase/Primase Complex

Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) encodes a heterotrimeric helicase-primase (UL5/8/52) complex. UL5 contains seven motifs found in helicase superfamily 1, and UL52 contains conserved motifs found in primases. The contributions of each subunit to the biochemical activities of the complex, however, remain unclear. We have previously demonstrated that a mutation in the putative zinc finger at UL52 C terminus abrogates not only primase but also ATPase, helicase, and DNA-binding activities of a UL5/UL52 subcomplex, indicating a complex interdependence between the two subunits. To test this hypothesis and to further investigate the role of the zinc finger in the enzymatic activities of the helicase-primase, a series of mutations were constructed in this motif. They differed in their ability to complement a UL52 null virus: totally defective, partial complementation, and potentiating. In this study, four of these mutants were studied biochemically after expression and purification from insect cells infected with recombinant baculoviruses. All mutants show greatly reduced primase activity. Complementation-defective mutants exhibited severe defects in ATPase, helicase, and DNA-binding activities. Partially complementing mutants displayed intermediate levels of these activities, except that one showed a wild-type level of helicase activity. These data suggest that the UL52 zinc finger motif plays an important role in the activities of the helicase-primase complex. The observation that mutations in UL52 affected helicase, ATPase, and DNA-binding activities indicates that UL52 binding to DNA via the zinc finger may be necessary for loading UL5. Alternatively, UL5 and UL52 may share a DNA-binding interface.
Adolescent response to having an HIV-infected mother

In this study, late adolescents/early adults whose mothers were living with HIV (MLH) were interviewed in order to explore their perceptions of what it had been like for them to grow up under the shadow of their mothers' illness. Adolescents were asked to describe what the difficult aspects of growing up with an HIV-positive mother were as well as what, if any, were the more rewarding aspects. Interviews were conducted in 2009-2010 with a random sample of 40 adolescents being followed up in a longitudinal assessment study. All study participants were English or Spanish speaking. Mean age was 18.9 years (SD = 1.9); 67.5% were Latino; 27.5% African-American; and 5% other/multiracial. Results revealed that growing up with an HIV-positive mother had both challenges as well as rewards. On the challenge side, adolescents mentioned six main issues: (1) disappointment regarding mothers' missing of childhood activities and events; (2) worry about mothers' health; (3) worry about the possibility of mothers' death; (4) increased burden of adult responsibilities/caregiving; (5) feelings of secrecy/stigma associated with HIV/AIDS; and (6) need to self-monitor behavior and communication to avoid maternal stress. On the positive side, adolescents mentioned three main rewarding aspects of growing up with an HIV-positive mother: increased closeness in the mother-child relationship; fostering of positive personality traits (e.g., resilience, gratitude, open-mindedness); and "perks" accorded to HIV-affected families.
PREPARATION and APPLICATIONS of COATED POWDERS in CERAMICS and RELATED FIELDS

Abstract Coated powders offer a variety of different applications. A general description of heterocoagulation and heteronucleation processes and how they are used to prepare well defined coaled participates will be given as an introduction, Following that part will be a number of practical examples. Essential properties of the powder or the final product can be influenced by a specific coaling layer. Examples are the homogeneous distribution of a second component, the protection of the core material towards a reactive environment, the intentional arrangement of electrically conductive or non conductive outer-layers, hydrophilic or hydrophobic behavior, color effects, or the design of controlled microstructures. The present review article will demonstrate how coaled powders can be used to achieve an improved control of numerous properties in composite material systems.
Antiviral immunity in HIV-1 infected long-term non-progressors (LTNPs)

Abstract Now that the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) epidemic is well into its second decade, it has become evident that a small percentage (approximately 5%) of HIV-infected individuals do not experience progression of HIV disease even after several years of being infected with HIV. These individuals have been designated as ‘long term non-progressors’ (LTNP). From a virologic standpoint, these LTNP have low viral burden in mononuclear cells, but persistent virus replication as manifested by chronic and generally low levels of plasma viremia. From an immunologic standpoint, immune functions including CD8 + T-cell- and CD4 + T-cell-mediated functions are preserved. In addition, they show a vigorous humoral immune response. More importantly, lymphoid tissue structure and function are preserved in LTNP. Despite persistent low-level virus replication and chronic stimulation of the immune system, immune activation is qualitatively and quantitatively different in LTNP compared to that observed in HIV-infected individuals whose HIV disease has progressed.
Pulmonary fibrosis in rheumatoid arthritis: A review of clinical features and therapy

During the past four decades there has been a growing appreciation of the frequency of pulmonary abnormalities associated with RA. Approximately 30% to 40% of patients with RA demonstrate either radiographic or pulmonary function abnormalities indicative of interstitial fibrosis or restrictive lung disease. The severity of pulmonary fibrosis is not associated with rheumatologic symptoms or the duration of the associated RA, nor is there any clear relation to the extraarticular features of RA or serologic findings. Survival rates in patients with coexisting RA and pulmonary fibrosis are similar to those of patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. However, the spectrum of disease activity is quite variable. The majority of patients with progressive pulmonary symptomatology, when treated with corticosteroids, will have equivocal results. Some patients appear to respond to immunosuppressive or cytotoxic medications. The role of macrophages may be central to the injury to lung. Recent studies suggest a potential treatment role for cyclosporine, which may be able to interrupt lymphocyte-stimulated macrophage activation, and thus, fibroblast-mediated fibrosis in patients with pulmonary interstitial fibrosis. Bronchoalveolar lavage studies may delineate subgroups of patients who are more likely to respond to immunosuppressive agents, especially when treatment is started early.
Distortion of ERP averages due to overlap from temporally adjacent ERPs: Analysis and correction

In studies of event-related potentials (ERPs), short interstimulus intervals (ISIs) are often employed to investigate certain neural or psychological phenomena. At short ISIs, however, the ERP responses to successive stimuli may overlap, thereby distorting the ERP averages. This paper describes a signal processing approach for analyzing the distortion of ERP averages due to such overlap. In general, the distortion is modeled in terms of mathematical convolutions of the ERP waveform elicited by each type of adjacent stimulus with the corresponding distribution in time of those stimuli relative to the averaging epoch. Using this framework, a number of implications of ERP overlap for experimental design and interpretation are examined, with special emphasis given to selective attention paradigms. It is shown that the possibility of confound due to ERP overlap is widespread in short-ISI experiments, and even the widely used procedure of stimulus randomization does not necessarily control for differential distortion of the ERPs to attended versus unattended stimuli. Problems due to ERP overlap can be particularly serious in short-ISI studies that examine how ERPs (and associated perceptual processes) are influenced by the nature of the preceding stimulus (i.e., stimulus sequence effects). A set of algorithms is presented for estimating and removing the residual distortion due to response overlap from recorded ERP averages. The use of these algorithms, collectively termed the Adjacent Response (Adjar) Technique, can alleviate many of the overlap-related problems that arise when short ISIs are used, thereby enhancing the power of the ERP technique.
Use of OKT3 for Acute Myocarditis in Infants and Children

Acute viral myocarditis triggers an autoimmune phenomenon that aggressive immunosuppressive therapy with monoclonal OKT3 may suppress. We treated 5 patients, aged 15 months to 16.5 years, who had acute viral myocarditis and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of 5% to 20%, with a combination immunosuppressive regimen that included OKT3, intravenous immunoglobulin, methylprednisone, cyclosporine, and azathioprine. Within 2 weeks of therapy, all patients demonstrated normalization of LVEF to 50% to 74%, and on mid-term follow-up, we have found no recurrence of heart failure or progression to dilated cardiomyopathy. In patients with severe acute myocarditis, aggressive immunosuppressive regimen based on OKT3 is safe and may inhibit or reverse the immune response, resulting in dramatic improvement in myocardial function.
Revealing the condensate and noncondensate distributions in the inhomogeneous Bose-Hubbard model

The Bose-Hubbard (BH) model has been the focus of intensive research over the past decade as a prototypical example of strongly correlated physics, especially since the model was realized with cold atoms in optical lattices [1]. Optical lattice experiments (OLE) are prime candidates for quantum simulations due to their extensive tunability and ease of control. Therefore they serve as ideal systems to study dynamical phenomena of many body eects in strongly interacting systems. Before studies can be meaningful, however, systematic characterization of equilibrium properties are crucial, the most important quantities being temperature (T) and density. However, direct or in-situ measurements of temperature in OLEs is an area of active research [2, 3]. Further, the study of phase transitions requires a good understanding of an observable that can be used as a probe for the state of the system. Theoretically, the natural choice is the order parameter, which for the BH model is the condensate fraction n0 = N0=N where N0 is the total number of condensed atoms andN the number of atoms. Alternatively, the superuid
A tutorial software design for selected undergraduate electrical engineering courses

A pilot project for the development of versatile workstation based tutorial software to assist engineering students in visualizing and understanding important fundamental engineering concepts has led to the creation of an interactive, reasonably portable application program. the current tutorial structure provides several operations for style and level of interaction. The author reports the development and early evaluation of this tutorial software for use in digital logic design and digital signal processing. Using lessons learned from the development of this system and from first evaluations of it, the development of a more comprehensive tutorial system for introductory engineering courses and engineering mathematics is discussed. >
Oxygen Exchange Reactions of Cationic Carbonyl Derivatives of Manganese and Rhenium with H218O and Related Processes

Reactions proposed to involve the intermediacy of metal species containing the hydroxycarbonyl group, [M—COOH], are reviewed. Particular attention is given to reversible reactions of Group VIIb metal carbonyl derivatives with isotopically labelled water, which presumably proceeds via a [M—COOH] intermediate, to afford oxygen labelled metal carbonyl derivatives. The current status of the scope and mechanistic details of this oxygen-exchange reaction is summarized.
Density Gradient Rubidium Dispersive Absorption Filter for Low Wavenumber Raman and Thomson Scattering

A new approach for low wavenumber Raman and forward Thomson scattering, based on a combination of rubidium dispersive absorption filter and narrow linewidth Ti: Sapphire laser, has been developed. This filter not only spatially disperses the low wavenumber Raman or Thomson scattering but strongly attenuates particle and Rayleigh scattering. The density gradient rubidium filter has large dispersion power and high optical throughput. A variable high rubidium density gradient perpendicular to the light propagation direction is created by the process of rubidium vapor diffusion through helium buffer gas. Both the dispersion and transmission characteristics near the rubidium D2 line (around 780.03nm) are experimentally studied for different vapor gradient conditions. A theoretical model based on the change of index of refraction and the absorption spectral profile predicts the spatial deviation and attenuation of Rayleigh, Raman or Thomson scattering radiation for various vapor density gradients. The model is verified by experimental data. A scheme to optimally operate the filter has been proposed. The filter also achieves high optical density without the problem of window condensation. As a demonstration, the rotational Raman spectrum of CO2 has been obtained with the new filter.
Acorns of the Willow Oak, Quercus Phellos, a Source of Vitamin A Activity

Abstract ACORNS have been used as a source of vegetable oil, for the production of ethyl alcohol by fermentation, and as human food, but their chief use has been as feed for livestock. The suitability of acorns for a given purpose depends on their composition, which, according to analyses made by Fraps (1919) and the senior author (1940–41), 1 varies greatly from species to species. For example, the ether-extractable material in the air-dried kernels of different species varies from less than 1 percent to more than 31 percent, the crude protein from about 4 percent to somewhat more than 10 percent, the nitrogen-free extract (carbohydrates) from 40 to 80 percent, and the ash from about 1.5 to 3 percent. According to Engels (1913) acorns are utilized best by swine, but large quantities should not be fed because of the high content (6 to 8 percent) of astringent substances, such as tannic . . .
Nutritional strategies for treating chronic fatigue syndrome.

Despite considerable worldwide efforts, no single etiology has been identified to explain the development of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). It is likely that multiple factors promote its development, sometimes with the same factors both causing and being caused by the syndrome. A detailed review of the literature suggests a number of marginal nutritional deficiencies may have etiologic relevance. These include deficiencies of various B vitamins, vitamin C, magnesium, sodium, zinc, L-tryptophan, L-carnitine, coenzyme Q10, and essential fatty acids. Any of these nutrients could be marginally deficient in CFS patients, a finding that appears to be primarily due to the illness process rather than to inadequate diets. It is likely that marginal deficiencies not only contribute to the clinical manifestations of the syndrome, but also are detrimental to the healing processes. Therefore, when feasible, objective testing should identify them and their resolution should be assured by repeat testing following initiation of treatment. Moreover, because of the rarity of serious adverse reactions, the difficulty in ruling out marginal deficiencies, and because some of the therapeutic benefits of nutritional supplements appear to be due to pharmacologic effects, it seems rational to consider supplementing CFS patients with the nutrients discussed above, along with a general high-potency vitamin/mineral supplement, at least for a trial period. (Altern Med Rev 2000;5(2):93-108)
Bit-error rate optimized training for time-varying fading channels

We study time division multiplexed training (TDMT) for the temporally correlated Rayleigh flat-fading channel. For a class of causal and non-causal estimators, we derive the bit-error rate (BER) of TDMT assuming grey-coded M-PSK input. The high-SNR performance of the estimators is characterized by simplified expressions for the minimum attainable BER. It is shown that energy allocation techniques that are often assumed to boost performance of TDMT may be useful in this setting, but only for the simplest estimators and at moderate values of SNR.
Epstein-Barr Virus BZLF1 Protein Binds to Mitotic Chromosomes

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a human herpesvirus that causes infectious mononucleosis and is associated with several types of cancers, including nasopharyngeal carcinoma and Burkitt's lymphoma. An EBV protein that plays an integral role during lytic replication is the immediate-early protein BZLF1. Our laboratory has found that BZLF1 (Z) localizes to host chromosomes during mitosis. Two Z-interacting proteins are also found localized to mitotic chromosomes in the presence of Z. The association between Z and mitotic chromosomes may lead to the sequestering of Z-interacting proteins within the cell and potentially cause an alteration of chromosome compaction or chromatin structure.
Modeling water surface reflectance signatures and in-water irradiance profiles in shallow tropical waters influenced by bottom reflectance

The two flow equations have been solved using Cauchy type boundary conditions so as to form a pair of coupled equations for use in a coupled atmosphere-water-bottom reflectance optical model to simulate the surface or subsurface reflectance, in-water irradiance profiles and in-water reflectance profiles in optically shallow or deep waters with or without a wind roughened surface. The model results presented utilize clear water absorption and backscatter coefficients, and bottom reflectance as a function of wavelength. The bottom reflectance is characteristic of a tropical sea grass, sand and silt and Elkhorn coral, and a dead reef system in order to evaluate the nature of the underwater light climatology. The analytical model results are compared to a hyper-spectral Monte-Carlo model. The Monte Carlo model also suggests a subsurface maximum in the intensity of light in optically shallow waters which is predicted by the analytical model.
Controlled Release of Heparin Reduces Neointimal Hyperplasia in Stented Rabbit Arteries: Ramifications for Local Therapy

Percutaneous coronary angioplasty is limited by neointimal hyperplasia and restenosis. Endovascular stenting has been proposed as a possible means of limiting this process. In practice stents have achieved early patency but are beset by early thrombosis and late restenosis. Heparin administered locally or systemically reduces smooth muscle cell hyperplasia following arterial injury in animals. Balloon-expandable stainless steel stents were placed in de-endothelialized rabbit iliac arteries to determine whether heparin released locally from perivascular matrices could reduce stent induced thrombosis and intimal hyperplasia. All animals received oral aspirin beginning 1 day prior to implantation and an IV bolus of heparin at balloon injury and stent placement. Heparin releasing ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer matrices were placed adjacent to the stented portion of the artery in the treated group of rabbits. Thrombosis was evident in 30% of ten control arteries 14 days after stent placement and was reduced to 0% in nine segments receiving local heparin therapy (P < 0.05). Intimal hyperplasia was present in all experimental arterial sections, but total intimal area normalized for induced injury was reduced at 14 days from 12.6 ± 0.9 mm2 in controls, to 6.8 ± 1.0 mm2 in treated arteries (P < 0.001). Our results with perivascular drug administration may shed some light on the pathobiology of the vascular response to endovascular stent insertion and might assist in the design of novel means for enhancing the utilization of angioplasty and other interventional procedures.
Use of UV to reduce particle trapping in process plasmas

The use of ultraviolet (UV) radiation to reduce the negative charge on dust particles and modify force balance in particle traps in processing plasmas is investigated theoretically. Possible photophoresis associated with the UV flux is also discussed. The use of UV to facilitate moving contaminant particles from traps is considered.
Power supply transient signal analysis under real process and test hardware models

A device testing method called Transient Signal Analysis (TSA) is subjected to elements of a real process and testing environment in this paper. Simulation experiments are designed to determine the effects of process skew (obtained from measured parameters of a real process) on the accuracy of TSA in estimating path delays from power supply I/sub DDT/ and V/sub DDT/ waveforms. The circuit model is designed to test TSA under deep submicron process models that incorporate advanced parameters such as transistor V/sub t/ width dependencies. Modeling elements of a testing environment including the probe card are subsequently introduced as a means of evaluating the effects of tester measurement noise in an actual implementation.
Assessment processes and outcomes: Portfolio construction

This chapter defines and discusses the concept of the portfolio in terms of its essential features, then examines the various functions that portfolios serve in the assessment of adult learning and the role that portfolios play in reflective processes.
Accountability and Relevance in Educational Research

Educational research has been criticised recently for being poorly conceived, self-indulgent and of little practical use. These allegations are discussed via an overview of the various functions of educational research: the production of knowledge about education, the formulation of educational policy, the promotion of improvements in educational practice, the promotion of radical change in society. The responsibilities of educational researchers are then discussed: proper attention to the functions of educational research, accountability for monies spent, recognition of responsibility for their activities. The pressures exerted by external funding bodies and the distorting effects of the research assessment exercise in the UK affect our sense of priorities here.
A tapered microstrip patch antenna array for use in breast cancer screening via 3D active microwave imaging

Given the measured performance of the antennas in the imaging array and the modeled scattered field data of small tumors within the human breast model, along with the known parameters associated with the other system components (e.g. losses through RF switching system and sensitivity of the measurement device), detection and screening of tumors with the clinical microwave imaging array that has been developed is certainly feasible. Since successful inversions of phantoms from previous experimental data with 3D imaging systems have already demonstrated the capability of the inversion algorithm developed at Duke, what remains is to finish implementing improvements in the hardware system (transition to MEMS based RF switching system) and to construct the Green's function from the completed forward model of the 3D prototype clinical system. From there, optimizations based on phantom imaging experiments will be performed, ultimately leading to clinical trials of the Duke 3D microwave breast imaging system.
Associations between Blood Zinc Concentrations and Sleep Quality in Childhood: A Cohort Study

Little evidence is available regarding the relationship between zinc and sleep in school children. The present study aimed to examine the cross-sectional and longitudinal associations between blood zinc concentrations and sleep quality throughout childhood. A total of 1295 children from the Jintan Child Cohort in China were included in this study. Venous blood sample of zinc and subjective sleep data were collected when the children were at preschool age (3-5 years old) and early adolescence (11-15 years old). Odds ratios (ORs) reflect the odds of the sleep quality/subdomain being at a greater impairment level associated with 1 unit increase in log zinc concentration. Cross-sectional analyses showed negative correlation of blood zinc concentrations with insufficient sleep duration (OR = 0.432, p = 0.002), sleep disturbances (OR = 0.454, p = 0.009) and poor sleep quality (OR = 0.559, p = 0.049) in adolescence, but no association at preschool age (p > 0.05). Longitudinal analyses indicated that blood zinc concentrations at preschool age predict poor sleep efficiency (OR = 0.186, p = 0.000) and poor sleep quality (OR = 0.358, p = 0.020) in adolescence. Our findings suggest that sufficient zinc concentration is associated with good sleep quality, dependent on the developmental stage in childhood. Future interventional research is warranted to examine the short and long-term effect of zinc status on sleep heath.
Teaching With Tupac: Building a Solid Grounding in Theory Across the Social Work Education Continuum

This article describes a collaborative and emergent approach utilizing Tupac Shakur’s “Brenda’s Got a Baby” to leverage theory education. This song/video uses a fictionalized account of a pregnant 12-year-old African American girl to chronicle the ecological realities of life in the inner city (e.g., teen pregnancy, drug addiction and trafficking, incest, poverty, dysfunctional families, lack of opportunity, ineffective educational and welfare systems, runaway youth, commercial sexual exploitation, violence, and a racially insensitive law enforcement response). Because of the complexity and convergence of multiple issues and social problems in Brenda’s life, and their impact across the micro–macro spectrum, this song/video is an effective anchor for a semester-long emphasis on a critically conscious approach to theory. This article (a) reviews hip-hop as a vehicle for pedagogy; (b) explores Tupac’s early history and approach to information dissemination; and (c) discusses underlying assumptions and applic...
Vaginal misoprostol administered at home after mifepristone (RU486) for abortion

Background There have been no US studies published on the effectiveness, safety, time to bleeding, and acceptability of misoprostol administered by vagina at home and repeated, if needed, after mifepristone was administered for abortion in women up to 8 weeks pregnant. Methods A prospective trial was conducted with women up to 8 weeks pregnant wanting an abortion. After receiving mifepristone 600 mg orally, subjects self-administered vaginal misoprostol 800 micrograms at home 2 days later. Subjects returned within 7 days, and if the gestational sac was still present on ultrasound, a repeat dose of misoprostol was administered in the office. Subjects completed a daily symptom log and a questionnaire on the acceptability of the procedures. Results Of the 166 subjects, 163 (98%) had a complete medical abortion. Three subjects presented with persistent bleeding and an incomplete abortion from 27 to 35 days after taking mifepristone and required surgical intervention. Vaginal spotting or bleeding occurred in 104 (62%) subjects before taking misoprostol, and 18 (11%) did not use misoprostol. Bleeding occurred on average 3.5 hours (SD, 3.2) after taking misoprostol. Six (4%) subjects required a second dose of misoprostol. Gastrointestinal side effects were common, mild, and brief. One hundred fifty-nine (96%) subjects agreed that the procedure went well, and 146 (90%) agreed that home administration of misoprostol was acceptable. Conclusions Two days after taking mifepristone, misoprostol administered by vagina was found to be safe, highly effective, and acceptable to women. Since only 6 subjects needed a second dose of misoprostol, conclusions about repeat doses are not possible. This procedure is a promising alternative to surgical abortion.
A Shuttle System for the Rapid Introduction of Tracking and other Genes into the Chromosomes of Soil Bacteria

The ability to easily and accurately track genetically engineered bacteria is an important aspect of their introduction into the environment. The genes introduced into these bacteria should also be inserted in such a way that their likelihood of loss or transfer to other bacteria is minimized. These two aims have been addressed for the fluorescent Pseudomonads by development of the Tn-derivative (Tn7-lac) gene insertion system that inserts the termini of the transposon but not those genes required for transposition. The genes (lacZY) that provide the phenotype used to select the recombinant derivatives also provide a phenotype that can be used very effectively in the tracking of these recombinant bacteria even in the presence of high numbers of similar indigenous bacteria. In the system above, the addition of other genes to the element (and then to the bacteria) was difficult, as was the introduction of plasmids of different incompatibilities into many target bacteria.
Sustaining Public-Private Partnerships

Public-private partnerships provide great opportunities for managing particular types of issues. In situations where the quality, quantity and price of the good or services being provided continue to increase over time, they are likely to be highly effective. While it is important that agreements be structured in ways that maintain competition and protect firms from renationalization for profit, such agreements are generally sustainable and beneficial for all parties. This success cannot, however, be generalized to all types of PPPs. When improvements in the quality or quantity of a good or service are limited, then private sector partners run the risk of obsolescence bargaining and are prone to generating over-priced and elite-focused consumer products. When minimal levels of a good or service must be provided and prices are constrained, then the government runs the risk of private sector partners underproviding the quality or quantity, in turn leaving the government stuck with providing side payments, subsidization or renationalization. Worst of all, perhaps, is the situation of environmental goods and other services that are valued for their existence benefits. In such circumstances, both the private and public partners have an incentive to underprovide the resource because their constituents or customers will continue to pay for the good or service over time. Indeed, these constituents will pay more over time if the good or service is underprovided.Caveat Emptor: The benefits and risks of public private partnerships will shift among the private sector partner, the public sector partner, and the public at large depending on changes in price and value over time. Public private partnerships work best for services that are commercially viable. They work less well when providing social or environmental goods. When existence benefits are at stake, PPPs are at their worst. In such circumstances, PPPs will likely continue to provide benefits their public and private partners while underserving the public at large.
A push-pull macrocycle with both linearly conjugated and cross-conjugated bridges.

A series of shape-persistent macrocycles featuring both m-phenylene and 2,5-thiophene linkers has been synthesized, including an example where they bridge electron-rich (veratrole) and electron-poor (phthalimide) units. Charge transfer in this “push–pull macrocycle” has been investigated by UV–vis and fluorescence spectroscopies and DFT calculations. The effect of pairing structurally distinct conjugated bridges is discussed in the context of acyclic and symmetrical macrocyclic analogs.
Abstract 692: Prognostic indicators associated with breast cancer molecular subtypes in African-American women

Background: Overexpression of Fascin, Endoglin (CD105), and Beta-Catenin has been found to be associated with unfavorable prognosis and progression in hormone-receptor negative breast carcinomas. Specifically, fascin promotes cell motility, while Beta-catenin is involved in cancer invasion, cellular transformation, and metastasis. CD105 is selectively upregulated in small, immature tumor vessels in malignant tumors. The objective of this study was to correlate fascin, CD105, and Beta-Catenin protein expression with clinicopathological factors including age, grade, tumor size, stage, regional node status, survival, and with the four major molecular breast cancer subtypes (luminal A, luminal B, HER2 positive, and Triple Negative [TN]). Methods: Tissue microarrays (TMAs) were constructed from optimally-fixed formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tumor blocks from primary breast carcinomas in 203 African-American females. Sections were stained with antitibodies against fascin, CD105, and beta-catenin. The sections were evaluated for the intensity of reactivity (0-3) and the percentage of reactive cells. Cases were categorized as having negative/weak (score 10) fascin expression, negative (score=0) or positive (score>0) CD105 (in tumor cells only) and beta-catenin (cytoplasmic and nuclear) expression. Bivariate analysis was done via χ 2 analysis and survivability data was calculated via the generation of Kaplan-Meier curves (SPSS v19). Statistical significance was assumed if P Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 692. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-692
Large-amplitude, reversible, pH-triggered wetting transitions enabled by layer-by-layer films.

We report on the use of layer-by-layer (LbL) hydrogels, composed of amphiphilic polymers that undergo reversible collapse-dissolution transition in solutions as a function of pH, to induce sharp, large-amplitude wetting transition at microstructured surfaces. Surface hydrogels were composed of poly(2-alkylacrylic acids) (PaAAs) of varied hydrophobicity, i.e., poly(methacrylic acid) (PMAA), poly(2-ethylacrylic acid) (PEAA), poly(2-n-propylacrylic acid) (PPAA) and poly(2-n-butylacrylic acid) (PBAA). When deposited at a micropillar-patterned silicon substrate, hydrophilic PMAA LbL hydrogels supported complete surface wetting (contact angle, CA, of 0°), whereas PEAA, PPAA, and PBAA ultrathin coatings supported large-amplitude wetting transitions, with CA changes from 110 to 125° at acidic to 0° at basic pH values, and the transition pH increasing from 6.2 to 8.4 with increased polyacid hydrophobicity. At acidic pHs, droplets showed a large hysteresis in CA (a “sticky droplet” behavior), and remained in the We...
PREDICTION OF PRODUCTIVITY FOR MICROTUNNELING PROJECTS IN BIDDING PHASE

The need for utility service line replacement or repairs with minimum disruption to the surface has increased the demand for trenchless excavation methods like microtunneling. Microtunneling is a trenchless technique that is used in installation of new pipelines. Microtunneling can be applied in gravity and pressure lines, permanent ducts for cables, and crossings under rails or roads. When bidding a microtunneling project, the main concern of microtunneling contractors is predicting the underground behavior of the machine. In other words, the microtunneling productivity is the key for profit in microtunneling projects. Contractors use their own experience in predicting approximate productivity, which risks cost estimation accuracy for microtunneling projects. Contractors lack productivity models that help them in predicting overall project time. Predicting the overall time for microtunneling projects in different soil types using probabilistic analysis methods is the purpose of this paper. Low, medium, and high performance operation is considered in the models. Contractors can use the models in predicting the overall project time through different soil types in bidding phase. Contractors can use it as well to evaluate the performance of project team. Researcher can use these models to start a more detailed analysis of the bidding process of microtunneling projects.
Elsie Ray and the Founding of STC

Elsie Ray, a research librarian at Anaconda Copper Mining Company, was the prime mover in the effort to organize the Association of Technical Writers and Editors (TWE), one of the organizations tha...
Analysis on the requirement of the decision support system for sanitary and anti-epidemic in important military training bases

Objective To analyze the requirements on construction of the decision support system based on GIS for sanitary and anti-epidemic in military training bases. Methods A semi-structured interview method was taken to investigate the necessity,elements and development approach constructing the system. Results Our army does not have a decision support system specific for sanitary and anti-epidemic in military training bases. This system should be constructed because intensity of troops training relying on training bases was increasing currently in our army. The constructed system should be based on GIS to meet the needs of the troops,and was technically feasible. This system should include four parts as the geographic database of military medicine,the sanitary epidemiology database,the local health resources mobilized database and the expert knowledge database. Conclusion It is necessary and feasible for this system to be constructed. The main contents and features of the system should meet the needs of troops stationed in military training base. This constructed system should effectively enhance the ability of medical service for troops stationed.
Design of remote on-line detecting system for power metering device

The importance of field test for power metering device in power metering management of an electric power supply enterprise,as well as the necessity and practical significance of this system for remote detection is presented in this paper.The operating principle for remote automatic detection is introduced.Design approaches of some key technologies such as"multi-to-1"detection of one sub-station device for the detected multi-channel power metering device are discussed in detail.Finally,with the users' actual application effect and the expertise report,it has shown that the system operates steadily,reliably,and the measurement data are accurate,real and effective.This system has great value to expand and use,and will have a bright future.
Promoting the Development of Children in Busy Primary Health Care Settings

It is generally agreed that the goal of primary health care for children is to treat illnesses and foster growth and development so that they will reach their full potential. In the past, necessity required that health care providers devote most of their time to treating infectious illnesses. However, as modern medicine has conquered many of these illnesses, health providers have been able to focus more of their attention on primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention of developmental disabilities.
Auditors and net transfers of Level 3 fair-valued financial instruments

Abstract Prior research shows that managers use discretion in estimating Level 3 financial instruments to opportunistically manage capital and earnings. We investigate an earlier decision, subsequent classification changes that result in net transfers into the Level 3 classification, to examine whether firms use their discretion to engage in opportunistic transfers. We then investigate whether auditors influence the decision to transfer into the Level 3 classification and/or alter audit fees. Using a hand collected sample of public bank fair value disclosures from 2008 through 2010, we find evidence consistent with firms engaging in opportunistic transfers into the Level 3 classification. We further find evidence that high quality auditors appear to constrain this behavior, consistent with higher quality auditors mitigating some risks associated with Level 3 instruments. We also find evidence that auditors increase fees when managers transfer instruments into the Level 3 classification. Collectively, our findings suggest that auditors manage risks related to Level 3 by both restricting transfers into the Level 3 classification and charging higher audit fees when transfers occur.
Cloud-based real-time heart monitoring and ECG signal processing

In this study, an embedded system has been developed to facilitate real-time arrhythmia detection. It performs electrocardiogram (ECG) signal processing and alerts the patient's doctor of ventricular tachycardia (VT) via wireless messaging. The signal processing first involves the Pan-Tompkins algorithm for R-peak detection and then utilizes a template-matching algorithm for PVC detection. By using a healthy beat, the template-matching algorithm generates two templates, the QRS complex and the interval between two R-peaks. The two templates are then correlated with the QRS complex and RR-interval of each heartbeat, and a low correlation indicates a PVC. All algorithms are implemented on the TI CC3200 LaunchPad, a low-cost Wi-Fi board. When three or more consecutive PVCs are detected, a short-message-service (SMS) system is activated. Cloud-based apps are used to send a text message from the LaunchPad to a cell phone. Benchmark records from the MIT-BIH arrhythmia database are used for design validation. MATLAB is used to simulate the signal processing algorithms, and Code Composer Studio is utilized to implement the design on the LaunchPad, where the algorithms are programmed in C. The experimental results using the LaunchPad were 99.1% QRS sensitivity and 81.7% PVC sensitivity. This study suggests a viable, low-complexity solution for real-time heart monitoring and arrhythmia detection.
Reviving the lithium metal anode for high-energy batteries

Lithium-ion batteries have had a profound impact on our daily life, but inherent limitations make it difficult for Li-ion chemistries to meet the growing demands for portable electronics, electric vehicles and grid-scale energy storage. Therefore, chemistries beyond Li-ion are currently being investigated and need to be made viable for commercial applications. The use of metallic Li is one of the most favoured choices for next-generation Li batteries, especially Li-S and Li-air systems. After falling into oblivion for several decades because of safety concerns, metallic Li is now ready for a revival, thanks to the development of investigative tools and nanotechnology-based solutions. In this Review, we first summarize the current understanding on Li anodes, then highlight the recent key progress in materials design and advanced characterization techniques, and finally discuss the opportunities and possible directions for future development of Li anodes in applications.
Degradation of Polymer Coatings in Service: How Properties Deteriorate Due to Stochastic Damage

Degradation of polymer coatings in service occurs due to the cumulative effect of a vast number of aggressive photons, molecules, or other assaults that occur at random locations and random intervals such that the Central Limit Theorem can be applied. This permits use of the Normal distribution to describe the extent and variation in the damage that occurs. In addition, initial network formation is also governed by stochastic processes as small reactive molecules react to form the polymer. Molecular dynamics simulations show that extensive variation is possible in the connectedness and local topology of a crosslinked polymer, so there are statistically occurring flaws and inconsistencies, even before exposure in service. The original defects, together with the damage caused by degradation, determine the performance of coatings. For deterioration in service, accumulation of damage is modelled as a stochastic process with the properties of the Normal distribution, using the mean to represent the most likely state of the material. Inserting this in very well-known theories of material properties such as gloss and toughness shows how the kinetics of failure of coatings may arise. Models include basic physical property values of materials and show how they affect the outcome. This approach also shows how nonsimultaneous degradation leads to an apparent induction period in the change of properties that may not originate with autocatalytic degradation chemistry. Equations generated in this approach demonstrate that different properties are sensitive in different ways to the degradation process and thus decay with a different rate, even though the basic mechanism of deterioration is identical.
Acrolein measurement and degradation in Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium: an examination of in-vitro exposure metrics.

AbstractAcrolein is a reactive α,β-unsaturated aldehyde known for its adduction to endogenous biomolecules, resulting in initiation or exacerbation of several disease pathways. In-vitro systems are routinely used to elucidate the cytotoxic or mechanistic role(s) of acrolein in pathogenesis. Nevertheless, the half-life of acrolein in biological or in-vitro systems, e.g. blood or culture media, has not been well characterized. Since in-vitro cytotoxic and mechanistic investigations routinely expose cultures to acrolein from 1 hour to 72 hours, we aimed to characterize the half-life of acrolein in culture medium to ascertain the plausible exposure window. Half-life determinations were conducted in low-serum DMEM at room temperature and 37 °C, both with and without H9c2 cells. For quantitative assessment, acrolein was derivatized to a fluorescent 7-hydroxyquinoline method validated in-house and assessed via fluorescent spectroscopy. In closed vessel experiments at room temperature, acrolein in DMEM was reduce...
Permission to Speak? Voices in Pediatric Decision Making

While we appreciate Navin and Wasserman's interest (Navin 2017) in our 2016 policy statement and technical report on informed consent in pediatric decision making (AAP Committee on Bioethics 2016; ...
Strict Independence of Parallel and Poly-synaptic Axon-Target Matching during Visual Reflex Circuit Assembly

Summary The use of sensory information to drive specific behaviors relies on circuits spanning long distances that wire up through a range of axon-target recognition events. Mechanisms assembling poly-synaptic circuits and the extent to which parallel pathways can "cross-wire" to compensate for loss of one another remain unclear and are crucial to our understanding of brain development and models of regeneration. In the visual system, specific retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) project to designated midbrain targets connected to downstream circuits driving visuomotor reflexes. Here, we deleted RGCs connecting to pupillary light reflex (PLR) midbrain targets and discovered that axon-target matching is tightly regulated. RGC axons of the eye-reflex pathway avoided vacated PLR targets. Moreover, downstream PLR circuitry is maintained; hindbrain and peripheral components retained their proper connectivity and function. These findings point to a model in which poly-synaptic circuit development reflects independent, highly stringent wiring of each parallel pathway and downstream station.
Individual assets and problem behaviors in at-risk adolescents: A longitudinal cross-lagged analysis

Autoregressive cross-lagged structural equation modeling was conducted to examine longitudinal relationships between individual assets (social competence, positive values and identity) and problem behaviors in 373 adolescents (174 boys, 199 girls) who participated in a prospective study on the effects of prenatal cocaine exposure from birth. More behavioral problems at age 12 were related to fewer individual assets at age 15, while greater individual assets were related to more behavioral problems, with a non-significant yet nuanced (p = .076) gender difference. More problem behaviors were associated with decreased individual assets in girls, yet greater individual assets were associated with more problem behaviors in boys. Efforts to promote individual assets may not lower the risk of engaging in problem behaviors especially among boys. Continued studies into adulthood will uncover how individual assets and problem behaviors in childhood and adolescence may affect social and vocational adjustment in this high risk population.