cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Generating the k-Subsets of an n-Set

While discussing with colleagues certain questions about generalized measures on finite measure spaces, the author came upon a combinatorial lemma-on generating all of the k-subsets of an n-set. In the context of these discussions, one is given an n-set, say X= {x,x2, ... .,xn,, together with a collection 9 of its subsets that is closed under disjoint union and under complementation. A generalized measure It is a nonnegative real-valued function on these "measurable" subsets, one however that is additive over disjoint unions. Of course, there are any number of such generalized measure spaces (g.m.s.), some interesting and some not, depending on one's point of view. Two useful but quite different introductions to the subject are those of Rado [1] and Gudder [2]. In the present context, we would like to be assured, first of all, that there are generalized measures that are not induced by an ordinary signed measure on the points of X. For this purpose, we let X = (1,2,3,4,5,6), and as the measurable sets we take
Dye-Sensitized House Fly Toxicity Produced as a Function of Variable Light Sources

House fly mortality induced by light after xanthene dye ingestion is dependent upon both light intensity and light source. Three variable light sources were employed in this study including fluorescent light, quartz iodide sunlamp, and the sun, and were compared to the total absence of light. Two dyes, rose bengal and erythrosin B, were tested for toxicity in the absence of light and appear to induce mortality by a similar, but different, mechanism. Six xanthene dyes were investigated for house fly toxicity with three different light sources to determine the relative effectiveness and efficiency of these light sources. The sun was the most effective light source, ca. 3.4 times more effective than fluorescent lights; but when light efficiency is considered, fluorescent lights are nearly 2.5 times more efficient than the sun and 3 times more efficient than the sunlamp.
Let’s play at the park! family pathways promoting spiritual resources to inspire nature, pretend play, storytelling, intergenerational play and celebrations

AbstractContemporary interest from scholars examining spirituality have suggested that young children have an innately rich spiritual dimension that can be nurtured when they are given opportunities to express it or when such expressions are recognised. Based on direct observations in natural settings, this article addresses the importance of children’s spirituality and how outdoor play spaces, especially community parks, can contribute to a child’s spiritual development through enriching activities in nature, pretend play, storytelling and intergenerational play. The article also aims to encourage consideration of a variety of strategies that can be used to support the holistic development of a young child and nurture children’s spirituality. Supporting a child’s spiritual development with playful activities in outdoor spaces can help to identify the child’s interests, strengths and creativity through relationships that shape bonds with both families and community.
Iron status, anemia, and plasma erythropoietin levels in acute and chronic mouse models of colitis.

BACKGROUND Approximately one-half of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) suffer from anemia, with the most prevalent cause being iron deficiency. Accompanying the anemia are increases in erythropoietin, a plasma protein that can initiate the feedback production of new red blood cells. Anemia also occurs in animal models that are used to investigate the mechanisms of IBD; however, the extent to which iron deficiency produces the anemia in these animal models is unknown. Also unknown in the different animal models of IBD is whether the anemia upregulates the production of erythropoietin or, alternatively, whether a decrease in erythropoietin contributes to the induction of anemia. METHODS Two mouse models of colitis were used in this study: (1) acute 6-day ingestion of dextran sodium sulfate and (2) T-cell transfer into lymphopenic recipient mice. Measurements included indices of colitis severity, hematocrit, blood hemoglobin, plasma erythropoietin, serum iron concentration, plasma iron-binding capacities, transferrin saturation, and tissue iron concentrations. RESULTS Both models of colitis induced significant decreases in hematocrit, blood hemoglobin, and transferrin saturation, with the spleen and liver showing a decrease in iron content in the T-cell transfer model. Additionally, both models of colitis demonstrated significant increases in plasma erythropoietin and plasma iron-binding capacities. CONCLUSIONS The measurements of iron, whether in acute (dextran sodium sulfate) or chronic (T-cell transfer) models of colitis, were generally consistent with iron-deficient anemia, with large increases in erythropoietin indicative of tissue hypoxia. These changes in animal models of colitis are similar to those found in human IBD.
Focused Ion Beam Implantation of GaAs-GaAlAs Quantum Well Structures

The effects of Implantation Enhanced Interdiffusion (IEI) in GaAs-GaAlAs quantum well structures are investigated. A Focused Ion Beam (FIB) source is used to implant narrow lines (500A wide) with Ga+ ions. IEI in these structures is characterized by low temperature Cathodoluminescence. The dose effects and annealing kinetics dependence on IEI are presented. An unusual damage distribution which produces IEI deep below the surface is observed for the case of FIB implant. The possible origins of this effect and the limits of IEI for processing quantum wires and boxes are discussed.
Evolution of Amide Stacking in Larger γ-Peptides: Triamide H-Bonded Cycles

The single-conformation spectroscopy of two model γ-peptides has been studied under jet-cooled conditions in the gas phase. The methyl-capped triamides, Ac-γ2-hPhe-γ2-hAla-NHMe and Ac-γ2-hAla-γ2-hPhe-NHMe, were probed by resonant two-photon ionization (R2PI) and resonant ion-dip infrared (RIDIR) spectroscopies. Four conformers of Ac-γ2-hPhe-γ2-hAla-NHMe and three of Ac-γ2-hAla-γ2-hPhe-NHMe were observed and spectroscopically interrogated. On the basis of comparison with the predictions of density functional theory calculations employing a dispersion-corrected functional (ωB97X-D/6-311++G(d,p)), all seven conformers have been assigned to particular conformational families. The preference for formation of nine-membered rings (C9) observed in a previous study [James, W. H., III et al., J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2009, 131, 14243] of the smaller analog, Ac-γ2-hPhe-NHMe, carries over to these triamides, with four of the seven conformers forming C9/C9 sequential double-ring structures, and one conformer a C9/C14 bifurca...
Analysis of the immune function,chest X-ray and prognosis of mycoplasma pneumonia in chldren

Objective:To study the immune function,chest X-ray and prognosis of mycoplasma pneumonia(MPP) in children in order to offer the evidences for judging its severe degree early and treatment effect.Methods:The clinical data in 89 cases who were definitely diagnosed as mycoplasma pneumonia were retrospectively analysed,and divided into mild case group severe case group according to the fever peroid,physical sign of lung and complication.The data of pulmonary iconography,peripheral hemocytes,average hospital day,cost of hospitalization and serum immunoglobulin in two grous were compared.Results:The increase levels of serum immunoglobulin in mild case group were significantly higher than those in severe case group(P0.01～0.05).The score of chest X-ray in severe case group was significantly higher than that in mild case group(P0.01).The average hospital day and cost of hospitalization in mild case group were significantly lower than those in severe case group(P0.01).The peripheral hemocytes had no significant difference between them.Conclusion:The level of humoral immunity correlates closely with the development and prognosis of MPP.The level of humoral immunity and score of chest X-ray can offer the evidences for judging the severe degree of MPP early and guiding therapy efficiently.
In Vivo Selection Yields AAV-B1 Capsid for Central Nervous System and Muscle Gene Therapy

Adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors have shown promise as a platform for gene therapy of neurological disorders. Achieving global gene delivery to the central nervous system (CNS) is key for development of effective therapies for many of these diseases. Here we report the isolation of a novel CNS tropic AAV capsid, AAV-B1, after a single round of in vivo selection from an AAV capsid library. Systemic injection of AAV-B1 vector in adult mice and cat resulted in widespread gene transfer throughout the CNS with transduction of multiple neuronal subpopulations. In addition, AAV-B1 transduces muscle, β-cells, pulmonary alveoli, and retinal vasculature at high efficiency. This vector is more efficient than AAV9 for gene delivery to mouse brain, spinal cord, muscle, pancreas, and lung. Together with reduced sensitivity to neutralization by antibodies in pooled human sera, the broad transduction profile of AAV-B1 represents an important improvement over AAV9 for CNS gene therapy.
Veränderungen der Serumlipoproteine

Zu den Serum- oder Plasmalipiden gehoren freies und verestertes Cholesterin, Phospholipide, Triglyceride und freie Fettsauren (FFS). Der Loslichkeit halber sind sie an spezifische Serumproteine gebunden, wodurch Lipid-Protein-Komplexe entstehen, die als Lipoproteine bezeichnet werden. Im menschlichen Serum lassen sich mindestens funf Arten von Lipoproteinen unterscheiden: die aus dem Nahrungsfett stammenden Chylomikronen sowie die pra-β-Lipoproteine, β-Lipoproteine, α-Lipoproteine und albumingebundenen FFS, die sich jeweils aus endogenen Fetten herleiten. Mit Ausnahme der letztgenannten Fraktion bestehen die Serumlipoproteine aus unterschiedlichen Anteilen von Cholesterin, Triglyceriden, Phospholipiden und spezifischen „Protein-Vehikeln“, den sogenannten Apolipoproteinen. In der durch Zusatz von Human-Albumin zur Pufferlosung modifizierten Elektrophorese auf Filterpapier [1], Acetatfolie [2] und Agar-Gel [3] lassen sich im normalen Nuchternplasma im allgemeinen nur α- und β-Lipoproteine identifizieren, gelegentlich auch eine schwache pra-β-Lipoproteinbande.
“Is This Cyberbullying or Not?”: Intertwining Computational Detection with Human Perception (A Case Study)

Cyberbullying refers to bullying that occurs through the Internet or text messaging. Understanding the nature of cyberbullying and its implications has become an important issue in society. In an attempt to assist with intervention and prevention efforts, the development of computational systems for detecting acts of cyberbullying has become a common trend. However, prior research notes that such systems are typically vulnerable to inaccurate detections, in particular false-positives. Given the prevalence of cyberbullying across age demographics, understanding how humans identify such activity is important for informing and improving such prevention/intervention efforts and reducing system vulnerability. A study was conducted that asked 180 participants to evaluate three excerpts taken from the social media site Formspring. Participants indicated that the use of profane words, and the determination that someone was harmed by the content of the social media post were the most likely determinants that cyberbullying occurred in the post.
Fixed Disparity Surfaces

Because IGA looks for a specific type of image event to occur, it is possible to reason about the implications of that event before it occurs. More specifically, it is possible to determine for a predicted object location in what frame the object will first be perceived and the size of the depth range returned by the algorithm. Given this idea, it is possible to adjust the imaging geometry for a specific situation, tailoring the perceptual capabilities of the system to the specific needs of that situation.
Abstract 2726: WWP2 is required for normal cell cycle progression

WWP2 is a ubiquitin E3 ligase belonging to the Nedd4-like family. Given that WWP2 target proteins including PTEN that are crucial for regulating cell proliferation or suppressing tumorigenesis, we have asked whether WWP2 plays a role in controlling cell cycle progression. Here we report that WWP2 is necessary for normal cell cycle progression as its silencing significantly reduces the cell proliferation rate. We have identified that an isoform of WWP2 (WWP2-V4) is highly expressed in the M phase of the cell cycle. Silencing of WWP2 accelerates the turnover of cyclin E, which is accompanied by increased levels of phospho-histone H3 (p-H3) and cyclin B. Moreover, silencing of WWP2 results in compromised phosphorylation of Akt S473 , a residue whose phosphorylation is tightly associated with the activation of the kinase. Combined, these results strongly suggest that WWP2 is an important component in regulating the Akt signaling cascade, as well as cell cycle progression. Citation Format: Byeong Hyeok Choi, Xun Che, Changyan Chen, Luo Lu, Wei Dai. WWP2 is required for normal cell cycle progression. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 107th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2016 Apr 16-20; New Orleans, LA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(14 Suppl):Abstract nr 2726.
Joining Dissimilar Material Combinations

Dissimilar materials must frequently be joined to create hybrid structures in which diverse or even divergent properties, unattainable in individual materials, are required. Hybrid structures enable minimization of weight, improved damage tolerance in the joined structure, optimized matching of properties to design needs, and improved economy in basic material costs as well as the cost of fabricating difficult materials. The challenge posed in joining of dissimilar materials is obtaining sufficient compatibility to permit the materials to join in the first place and the joint to function in service in the second place. Compatibility must be chemical, physical, and mechanical, and the closer the matches, the better. While every combination of the basic material types is conceivable, not every combination is practical or even logical based on drastic differences in fundamental structures and properties. For joining metals to ceramics, the choices include (1) mechanical fastening by interlocking features or fasteners; (2) direct joining by non-fusion or, to a lesser extent, fusion welding; and (3) indirect joining using intermediates that include organic or inorganic adhesives or metallic fillers that are melted to enable brazing or soldering or to remain solid for assisting in diffusion welding. When metals are joined to glass, the principal need is usually hermeticity and mechanical strength being secondary. On the other hand, metals can be joined to polymers simply by using polymeric adhesives, although mechanical fasteners are also used. For joining metals to composites, the material making up the matrix of the composite needs to be considered and then the joining process is selected accordingly.
Interest Rate Puzzles, Competitive Theory and Capital Constraints

Much has been written in recent years concerning the problem of reconciling observed patterns of real wages with competitive equilibrium theory. The failure of real product wages to rise in economic downturns suggests that firms are off their supply curves;1 and the failure of real consumer wages to fall substantially suggests that workers are off their labour supply curves.
Miscellaneous Disorders: Pregnancy-Associated Liver Disorders, Vascular Disorders, Granulomatous Diseases, and Amyloidosis

This chapter discusses miscellaneous hepatic disorders including pregnancy-associated liver disorders, vascular disorders of the liver, granulomatous diseases of the liver, and hepatic amyloidosis. This chapter reviews the normal physiologically adaptive changes that occur during pregnancy and the subsequent changes in the liver biochemical profile. Liver diseases unique to pregnancy are one of five liver disorders—hyperemesis gravidarium (HG), intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP), preeclampsia, HELLP syndrome, and acute fatty liver of pregnancy (AFLP). This chapter also discusses the epidemiology, pathogenesis, radiographic findings, diagnosis, and the treatment of various vascular disorders affecting the liver, namely portal vein thrombosis, Budd-Chiari syndrome, and sinusoidal occlusive syndrome. This chapter also reviews the incidence, etiology, and pertinent clinical and laboratory findings of various granulomatous liver diseases and explains the indications for treatment. This chapter concludes by explaining the etiologies, clinical and laboratory findings, management, and outcomes of hepatic amyloidosis.
Trim58 Is a Putative E3 Ubiquitin Ligase That Functions in Late Stage Erythropoiesis

Abstract Abstract 83 Protein quality control (PQC) pathways, including the ubiquitin-proteasome system, play critical roles in tissue development, including erythropoiesis. PQC mechanisms also regulate mitosis by facilitating the degradation of cell cycle stage-specific proteins. During erythropoiesis, committed progenitors undergo specialized cell divisions that facilitate terminal maturation and culminate in nuclear extrusion. We identified the tri partite motif-containing protein family member Trim58 as a putative ubiquitin ligase that is specifically expressed during late erythroid maturation as cells undergo their final round of division. Genome-wide ChIP-Seq and transcriptome analyses indicate that the Trim58 gene is activated by the essential erythroid nuclear proteins GATA1 and SCL/TAL1 (Cheng et al. Genome Research 2009). In human genome-wide association studies (GWAS), TRIM58 gene polymorphisms correlate with altered erythrocyte size (Ganesh et al. Nature Genetics 2009; Kamatani et al. Nature Genetics 2010). To study the function of Trim58, we used shRNAs to inhibit its expression in primary erythroid cultures of murine fetal liver hematopoietic progenitors. Four Trim58 shRNAs knocked down mRNA and protein expression from 60–90%. Compared to controls, Trim58 knockdown had no effect on erythroblast proliferation, survival, hemoglobinization, or expression of the maturation markers Ter119 and CD44. However, Trim58-deficient erythroblasts exhibited defective enucleation to the reticulocyte stage after 48 hours in culture (54% reticulocytes vs. 69% in controls, p Figure 1 ). Additionally, Trim58 knockdown caused late-stage erythroblasts to acquire 2 or more nuclei (15.1% vs. 1.7% in controls, p Download : Download high-res image (31KB) Download : Download full-size image Figure 1 . Compared to control shRNA treatment (shLuciferase), Trim58 knockdown (shTrim58) in differentiating primary murine erythroblasts causes a late maturation block with reduced reticulocytes and accumulation of multinuclear erythroblasts. Disclosures: No relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
VLSI in Electrocardiography

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the history and development of very-large-scale integration (VLSI) in electrocardiogram. Advances in the diagnosis of heart disease from the electrocardiogram have been driven by medical research, and advances in electrocardiograph design have come from the fields of electronics and computer technology. Tremendous progress in semiconductor and computer science has allowed the technology of the instrument to surpass the science of its use. Modern cardiographs come in all shapes and sizes, from portable, single-channel, all-analog units to tea-cart-size, multichannel, digital analyzing machines. The less capable and costly machines are popular with small clinics and private practices. Hospitals and large clinics often purchase large multichannel units for their additional capabilities. This range of size and capability is shrinking. VLSI and packaging advancements allow even the smallest cardiographs to be fully featured at a reasonable price.
Beyond medical school: the frontier of medical activism.

Medical students' activism in various public health programs has brought benefits to patients and the medical profession. Virtual Mentor is a monthly bioethics journal published by the American Medical Association.
Alcohol, Drugs, and Crime

There is a substantial body of research, beginning in the 1950s that supports an association between alcohol, drugs, and crime. Much of this research has focused specifically on violent crime. Research shows that either the perpetrator or the victim, or both, is under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of an offense or has used some substance 24 h prior (e.g., Haggard-Grann, Hallqvist, Langstrom, & Moller, 2006; Karberg & James, 2005; Moore et al., 2008). From this, it is easy to assume a direct causal link between substance use and criminal activity, particularly violent crime. However, the relationship is far more complex.
Using topic modeling to develop multi-level descriptions of naturalistic driving data from drivers with and without sleep apnea

One challenge in using naturalistic driving data is producing a holistic analysis of these highly variable datasets. Typical analyses focus on isolated events, such as large g-force accelerations indicating a possible near-crash. Examining isolated events is ill-suited for identifying patterns in continuous activities such as maintaining vehicle control. We present an alternative approach that converts driving data into a text representation and uses topic modeling to identify patterns across the dataset. This approach enables the discovery of non-linear patterns, reduces the dimensionality of the data, and captures subtle variations in driver behavior. In this study topic models are used to concisely described patterns in trips from drivers with and without untreated obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The analysis included 5000 trips (50 trips from 100 drivers; 66 drivers with OSA; 34 comparison drivers). Trips were treated as documents, and speed and acceleration data from the trips were converted to "driving words." The identified patterns, called topics, were determined based on regularities in the co-occurrence of the driving words within the trips. This representation was used in random forest models to predict the driver condition (i.e., OSA or comparison) for each trip. Models with 10, 15 and 20 topics had better accuracy in predicting the driver condition, with a maximum AUC of 0.73 for a model with 20 topics. Trips from drivers with OSA were more likely to be defined by topics for smaller lateral accelerations at low speeds. The results demonstrate topic modeling as a useful tool for extracting meaningful information from naturalistic driving datasets.
Cell and Tissue Interactions with Materials: The Role of Growth Factors

Realization and appreciation that growth factors are essential in tissue development, regeneration, and maintenance as well as crucial mediators/regulators of pertinent cellular- and molecular-level events has motivated new directions in bioengineering research. These endeavors have the potential of seminal contributions in implant biomaterials, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine.
Orbital (Climatic) Forcing and Its Imprint on the Global Landscape

Abstract In this chapter, we review the history of Mars climate observations and discuss our current understanding of how the martian climate evolves with time, focusing on recent Mars history covering the past several tens of millions of years. There is substantial observational and theoretical evidence to suggest that there have been dramatic, and regular, shifts in Mars' climate that would have periodically made the Mars of the past unrecognizable to modern day observers. Changes in the axial tilt, orbital eccentricity, and precession of Mars' perihelion work in concert to redistribute water across the surface, forming residual deposits which are readily observed, but which do not align with the present-day surface deposits of water ice, and which indicate a different climate equilibrium at times in the past. The climate forcing mechanisms that influence these deposits are addressed, and we discuss what this means for establishing a timeline of Mars' recent climate history. We subsequently address the means by which volatiles are emplaced on, and within, the surface, distinguishing between diffusive processes that migrate water vapor into and out of the subsurface, and those depositional processes that emplace water ice directly on the surface as snowfall. We further consider the role of periglacial activity and putative liquid water availability on the vertical migration of water in the subsurface. Lastly, we review various ways in which water provides visual, textural, and morphological evidence for recent climate change. We illustrate several examples of observed features that establish the distribution of water ice throughout recent Mars history, the climates required for its emplacement, and the residuals of its subsequent removal. By following this relict evidence of martian water ice, we can begin to weave a story of Mars' recent past—one that shows the breadth of climate states over time, of which the present day is but one example.
IDENTIFYING SUBSTANCE ABUSE AMONG CHILD WELFARE CARETAKERS: AN AMERICAN NATIONAL STUDY

American Child welfare staff has long recognized that substance abuse is common in families they serve. The unanswered questions are how well do child welfare social workers identify substance abuse in caretakers; and, what client and agency variables complicate this assessment? Chaos theory has much to offer social work in dealing with the uncertainty and complexity that characterize families who experience child abuse, neglect, and substance abuse. This exploratory study analyzed the National Study of Protective, Preventive and Reunification Services Delivered to Children and Their Families dataset. This dataset was a national sample of 2,109 opened child welfare cases (National Data Archive on Child Abuse and Neglect). Caretakers included birth mothers and fathers, stepparents, extended family members; such as aunts, uncles, and grandparents, and adoptive parents. Analysis explored the frequency of abuse and neglect substantiation, mental health problems and substance abuse problems identified by caseworkers. Three multivariate logistic regression models were developed to predict whether independent variables were associated with; the dichotomous dependent variable was identified caretaker substance abuse. Twenty-nine percent of caretakers were identified as substance abusers. This study found child welfare cases with identified substance abuse were significantly more chaotic than other families. Identified caretakers’ problems were twice that of non-identified caretakers. Substance abusing cases are opened more than twice the number of years and have twice as many caseworkers. This study found that neglect cases are fifty percent less likely to be identified and abandonment are more than ninety percent less likely to be identified.
Occurrence, Function, and Biosynthesis of Mycofactocin

Mycofactocin is a member of the rapidly growing class of ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptide (RiPP) natural products. Although the mycofactocin biosynthetic pathway is widely distributed among Mycobacterial species, the structure, function, and biosynthesis of the pathway product remain unknown. This mini-review will discuss the current state of knowledge regarding the mycofactocin biosynthetic pathway. In particular, we focus on the architecture and distribution of the mycofactocin biosynthetic cluster, mftABCDEF, among the Actinobacteria phylum. We discuss the potential molecular and physiological role of mycofactocin. We review known biosynthetic steps involving MftA, MftB, MftC, and MftE and relate them to pyrroloquinoline quinone biosynthesis. Lastly, we propose the function of the remaining putative biosynthetic enzymes, MftD and MftF.
MRI robot for prostate focal laser ablation: a phantom study

Purpose: A new version of a grid-template-mimicking MR-compatible robot is developed to assist during in-gantry MRI-guided focal laser ablation of prostate cancer. This robot replaces the grid template and provides higher positioning resolution, and allows autonomous needle alignment directly from the targeting and navigation software, with the needle insertion manually performed for safety. Method: A substantially more compact solution is designed and prototyped to allow comfortable accommodation between the patient’s legs while in MRI bore. The controller software was reconfigured and embedded into the custom navigation and multi-focal ablation software, OncoNav (NIH). OncoNav performs robot-to-image registration, target planning, controlling the robot, ablation planning, and 3D temperature analysis for monitoring. For free space accuracy study, 5 targets were selected across the workspace and the robot was commanded 5 times to each target. Then, a thermochromic phantom study was designed consisting of acrylamide gel and color changing ink for testing the overall workflow. 4 spherical metal fiducials were embedded in the phantom at different locations. After each targeting, laser ablation was applied in two of the targets. Finally, the phantom was sliced for gross observation of guidance and treatment accuracy. Results: in-the-air accuracy was 0.38±0.27 mm. The overall targeting accuracy including robot, registration, and insertion error was 2.17±0.47 mm in phantom. Ablation successfully covered ellipsoids around the targets. The workflow was acceptably smooth. Conclusions: The new robot can accurately assist in targeting small targets followed by focal laser ablation. Sterility and regulatory hurdles will be addressed with specific design approaches as the next step.
2‐(Diphenyl­phosphinoylmeth­yl)pyridinium tetra­fluoro­borate

In the title compound, [OPPh2(2-CH2C5H4NH)]BF4, the phospho­rus atom displays a tetra­hedral geometry, with the nitro­gen of the pyridyl group protonated and having tetra­fluoro­borate as counter-anion.
Plasma-catalysis chemical looping CH4 reforming with water splitting using ceria supported Ni based La-perovskite nano-catalyst

Abstract Chemical Looping reactions have the advantage of producing useful chemicals, with minimal energy penalty while achieving Carbon Capture Sequestration (CCS). We present the results of Plasma Catalytic (PC) CH4 reforming reduction step coupled with PC water splitting oxidation step to produce hydrogen. We use CH4+CO2 flow reduction step with nano-powder, 50:50 mass ratio of La0.9Ce0.1NiO3 perovskite with CeO2 solid mixture as catalyst with Oxygen Carrier (OC) combination. The material is oxidized with H2O+Ar during the oxidation step leading to H2 production by water splitting. The primary goal is to study the plasma-assisted reforming and water splitting, with the purpose of achieving reactions at low temperatures (150–400 °C). Water splitting H2 production (24–30 μmole/g total) and CH4 reforming (14–43 % conversion) were observed in the temperature range of 150–400 °C, while no such reactions were observed without plasma in this low temperature range, with just the oxygen carrier nano-materials. Substantial enhancements were also observed at higher temperatures.
Addition of vitamin A intake data during compartmental modeling of retinol kinetics in theoretical humans leads to accurate prediction of vitamin A total body stores and kinetic parameters in studies of reasonable duration.

Background Mathematical modeling of theoretical data has been used to validate experimental protocols and methods in several fields. Objectives We hypothesized that adding dietary vitamin A intake data as an input during compartmental modeling of retinol kinetics would lead to accurate prediction of vitamin A total body stores (TBS) at 2 specified study lengths and would reduce study duration required to accurately define the system. Methods We generated reference values for state variables (including TBS and intake) and kinetic parameters for 12 theoretical individuals (4 each of children, younger adults, and older adults) based on modeling plasma retinol tracer data for 365 d. We compared TBS predictions using data to 28 d (children) or 56 d (adults) without and with intake included in the model to reference values for each subject. Then, by truncating data sets from 365 d, we determined the shortest study duration required to accurately define the system without and with inclusion of vitamin A intake. Results Reference values for TBS ranged from 30 to 3023 µmol. Study durations of 28 and 56 d were sufficient to accurately predict TBS for 6 of the 12 subjects without intake; adding intake resulted in accurate predictions of TBS for all individuals. When intake was not included as a modeling input, durations of 35-310 d were required to define the system; inclusion of intake data substantially reduced the time required to 10-42 d. Conclusions Inclusion of vitamin A intake as additional data input when modeling vitamin A kinetics allows investigators to accurately predict TBS and define the vitamin A system in studies of reasonable length (4 wk in children and 8 wk in adults). Because it is generally possible to obtain estimates/measures of intake, including such data increases confidence in model predictions while also making studies more feasible.
Analysis of The Effect of Supervision, Job Relations, and Compensation on Job Satisfaction and its Impact on Job Performance of CV. Aliansyah Winong Pati

This study aims to determine the conditions of job satisfaction, job performance, supervision,job relations, and compensation at CV. Aliansyah; explain the influence of supervision, job relations, and compensation for job satisfaction; the influence of supervision, job relations, and compensation on job performance; the effect of job satisfaction on job performance. The type of research used is explanatory research with a quantitative approach. The variables of this study are supervision,jobrelations, and compensation as independent variables, job satisfaction as a mediator variable and job performance as a dependent variable. The sample in this study were 78 employees working at CV. Aliansyah Winong Pati. The data sources used are primary data and secondary data. The primary data used in this study came from questionnaires by respondents. Secondary data obtained from company data, journals, and previous research. Data analysis methods used are descriptive analysis, regression and path analysis. The results of path analysis show that supervision,job relations, compensation have no significant effect on job satisfaction; supervision, job relations, compensation have a significant effect on performance; Job satisfaction has no significant effect on job performance. Job satisfaction is not a mediating variable because the direct influence of all independent variables (supervision, job relations, compensation) on the dependent variable (job performance) is greater than the indirect effect through job satisfaction.
Ganoderic acid A/DM-induced NDRG2 over-expression suppresses high-grade meningioma growth

N-myc downstream-regulated gene 2 (NDRG2) is down-regulated in grade-III meningioma [anaplastic meningioma (AM)] and associated with clinically aggressive behavior. Current therapies in the treatment of high-grade meningioma are lacking with limited success. This study aims to validate the effect of NDRG2-targeted therapy using structurally related bioactive triterpene compounds derived from the edible mushroom Ganoderma lucidum (ganoderic acid A:GA-A/ganoderic acid DM:GA-DM) in human AM in relevant pre-clinical models. Tissue samples from the AM tumor regions of three human patients and control non-tumor samples were used to analyze the expression pattern of NDRG2. In vitro cell culture and in vivo cell-line-derived orthotopic xenograft animal models of AM were utilized to assess efficacy of treatment with GA-A/DM. Downregulation of NDRG2 expression was observed in surgically resected high-grade meningiomas compared to normal brain. These results prompt us to use NDRG2-targeting agents GA-A/DM. In vitro results showed that 72-h treatments of 25 µM GA-A/DM induced AM cell death, upregulate NDRG2 protein expression, downregulate NDRG2 promoter methylation in meningioma cells as compared to azacitidine and decitabine, the most commonly used demethylating agents. Our results also demonstrated that GA-A/DM does not have any detrimental effect on normal human neurons and arachnoid cells. GA-A/DM promoted apoptotic factors (Bax) while suppressing MMP-9, p-P13K, p-AKT, p-mTOR, and Wnt-2 protein expression. RNAi-mediated knockdown of NDRG2 protein expression increased tumor proliferation, while forced expression of wt-NDRG2 decreased proliferation in an in vitro model. Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging and Hematoxylin (H&E) staining demonstrated gross reduction of tumor volume in GA-A/DM treated mice at 5 weeks when compared with saline-treated orthotopic AM xenografted controls. There was an overall decrease in tumor cell proliferation with increased survival in GA-A/DM-treated animals. Enzyme assays showed that GA-A/DM did not negatively impact hepatic function. GA-A/DM may be a promising natural therapeutic reagent in the treatment of AM by suppressing growth via NDRG2 modulation and altering of intracellular signal pathways. We have shown it could potentially be an effective treatment for AM with decreased cellular proliferation in vitro, decreased tumor volume and increased survival in vivo.
Chapter 7 – Protein Digestion

: In this chapter on protein digestion, various forms of protein digestion are discussed and related, and the components, locations, and applications thereof are outlined. Tissue protein degradation, in visceral organs, under starvation or during cachexia, and the role of ubiquitin therein is covered. Coverage of gastrointestinal protein digestion, the various forms of pepsins therein, the role of rennin, the release of cholecystokinin (CCK), and intestinal mechanisms of secretion and absorption is provided. The relationship between trypsin inhibitor and pancreatic autodigestion is covered. Transport mechanisms for amino acids and glucose in the small intestine and proximal tubular epithelial cells of the kidney are covered, and the distinction between rennin and renin are described.
Dynamic depth distribution of cesium-133 near soil surfaces in packed soils under multiple simulated rains

Abstract Various 137Cs conversion models have been used to predict soil erosion. A knowledge of the initial distribution of 137Cs is vital to improve soil loss prediction. The objectives were to (1) characterize the dynamic distributions of 133Cs near the soil surfaces in multiple rains spiked with 133Cs using a rainfall simulator, and (2) further estimate the relaxation mass depth (H) for use in an improved 137Cs mass balance model. Three silt loam soils were packed to soil boxes (1 × 0.5 × 0.1 m) and rained on at 30 mm h−1 and 10% slope in five consecutive rains. Soil cores (62.5 mm i.d.) were taken following each rain and were sectioned in the 1–10-mm intervals. Event runoff and sediment were collected. Cs+ was extracted with an NH4OAc method using a centrifuge procedure and analyzed with Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometer. The results showed initial Cs distributions near the soil surfaces were approximately exponential, and the mean H value could adequately characterize the initial Cs distributions for each soil for any sequence of rains. The averaged H values were 0.338, 0.304, and 0.354 g cm−2 for the three soils, equivalent to the soil depths of 2.76, 2.20, and 2.58 mm, indicating that majority of Cs was distributed within the top 3-mm depth. Cs+ was strongly adsorbed by the soils as indicated by the large Kd values of >32.6 L kg−1, showing the limited mobility of the freshly deposited Cs+ in the soils. Better H estimation should lead to more accurate soil loss prediction using the improved Cs mass balance model.
Quinoa flavonoids and their bioaccessibility during in vitro gastrointestinal digestion

Abstract This research evaluated the effect of in vitro gastrointestinal digestion on the bioaccessibility of flavonoid compounds present in quinoa products (seeds, sprouts, and flakes) and changes in their antioxidant activity. Flavonoids that were present after treatment with gastric and intestinal enzymes were characterized using HPLC-ESI-MS3, and the antioxidant activity was measured using two different antioxidant assays. Seven out of eleven flavonoid compounds were found intact after in vitro digestion, and their concentration were significantly increased after in vitro gastrointestinal digestion. The increase in flavonoids led to an approximately 2-fold increase in the antioxidant activity. The main class of flavonoid compounds identified in quinoa were flavonols, mainly quercetin and kaempferol glycosides. The results suggest that flavonoid compounds from quinoa products, which are associated with health benefits, are bioaccessible after efficient extraction by the digestive enzymes, and are available for further absorption in the intestine.
Quantitative muscle MRI as a sensitive marker of early muscle pathology in myotonic dystrophy type 1.

BACKGROUND Quantitative muscle MRI as a sensitive marker of early muscle pathology and disease progression in adult-onset myotonic dystrophy type 1. The utility of muscle MRI as a marker of muscle pathology and disease progression in adult-onset myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) was evaluated. METHODS This prospective, longitudinal study included 67 observations from 36 DM1 patients (50% female), and 92 observations from 49 healthy adults (49% female). Lower-leg 3T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans were acquired. Volume and fat fraction (FF) were estimated using a three-point Dixon method, and T2-relaxometry was determined using a multi-echo spin-echo sequence. Muscles were segmented automatically. Mixed linear models were conducted to determine group differences across muscles and image modality, accounting for age, sex, and repeated observations. Differences in rate of change in volume, T2-relaxometry, and FF were also determined with mixed linear regression that included a group by elapsed time interaction. RESULTS Compared with healthy adults, DM1 patients exhibited reduced volume of the tibialis anterior, soleus, and gastrocnemius (GAS) (all, P < .05). T2-relaxometry and FF were increased across all calf muscles in DM1 compared to controls. (all, P < .01). Signs of muscle pathology, including reduced volume, and increased T2-relaxometry and FF were already noted in DM1 patients who did not exhibit clinical motor symptoms of DM1. As a group, DM1 patients exhibited a more rapid change than did controls in tibialis posterior volume (P = .05) and GAS T2-relaxometry (P = .03) and FF (P = .06). CONCLUSIONS Muscle MRI renders sensitive, early markers of muscle pathology and disease progression in DM1. T2 relaxometry may be particularly sensitive to early muscle changes related to DM1.
Comparative Assessment of Water Quality of Tube wells and Pipe Borne Water in Kaluvankeni Hostels, Eastern University, Sri Lanka

This study was carried out to assess the water quality of tube wells and pipe borne water supplied in the hostels of Kaluvankeni, Eastern University, Sri Lanka using physicochemical parameters such as temperature, pH, Electrical Conductivity, Salinity, TDS (Total Dissolved Solids), Total Hardness, Dissolved Oxygen (DO), Turbidity, and quantitative studies of some specific cations (Ca2+, Mg2+, Fe2+, Cr3+, Cd2+, K+) and anions (NO3-, NO2-, PO43-, Cl-, F-). The sampling was carried out for two times per week for four weeks during the period from March to July 2020. Water samples were collected from three stations in hostels and were analyzed separately using standard methods. The results showed that both tube wells exceeded the permissible threshold levels of salinity, DO, turbidity, iron, potassium, and chromium while only tube well 2 exceeded the permissible threshold levels of conductivity. Pipe borne water was within the permissible threshold levels of all the parameters. The root causes for high turbidity in Tube well water was due suspensions from soil due to the frequent drawings from them. High level of iron concentrations could possibly be as a result of corrosions of iron pipes and may be due to the ground water contaminations from burial mounds. The obtained values of each parameter were compared with the standard values set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and Sri Lankan Standard for Drinking water (SLS 614:2013). Overall, the pipe borne water was safe for the consumption while the water from both tube wells were not advisable for consumptions but they can be used for non-consumable purposes.
Rate and extent of interconversion of tetrahydrofolate cofactors to dihydrofolate after cessation of dihydrofolate reductase activity in stationary versus log phase L1210 leukemia cells.

Previous studies from this laboratory established that the rapid but partial interconversion of tetrahydrofolate cofactors to dihydrofolate after exposure of L1210 leukemia cells to antifolates cannot be due to direct feedback inhibition of thymidylate synthase by dihydrofolate or any other endogenous folylpolyglutamates when dihydrofolate reductase activity is abolished by antifolates. Rather, the data suggested this preservation of tetrahydrofolate cofactor pools is likely due to a fraction of cellular folates unavailable for oxidation to dihydrofolate. This paper explores the role of cell cycle phase in L1210 leukemia cells in logarithmic versus stationary phase growth as a factor in the rate and extent of tetrahydrofolate cofactor interconversion to dihydrofolate after exposure of cells to the dihydrofolate reductase inhibitor trimetrexate. The S phase fraction was reduced by inoculating L1210 leukemia cells at high density to achieve a stationary state. Flow cytometric analysis of DNA content indicated that log phase cultures were 53.0% S phase; this decreased to 42.1% at 24 h and 24.1% at 48 h in stationary phase cultures. 5-Bromo-2‘-deoxyuridine incorporation into DNA decreased 80 and 96%, while [3H]dUrd incorporation into DNA declined 70 and 95% for stationary cultures at 24 and 48 h, respectively, as compared with the log phase rates. Log phase cells interconverted 28.0% of the total pool of radiolabeled folates to dihydrofolate with a half-time of approximately 30 s. Stationary cells at 24 h interconverted 20.4% of the total folate pool with a t1/2 of approximately 3 min, and at 48 h, net interconversion to dihydrofolate decreased further to 12.1% with a t1/2 of approximately 6 min. The decrease in the extent of tetrahydrofolate cofactor interconversion to dihydrofolate in stationary phase cells was directly proportional to the decrease in the S phase fraction determined by total DNA content. This suggests that tetrahydrofolate cofactor depletion occurs only in S phase cells. The much larger drop in [3H]dUrd and 5-bromo-2‘-deoxyuridine incorporation into DNA in comparison with the decline in the S phase fraction measured by DNA content along with the reduced rate of tetrahydrofolate cofactor interconversion to dihydrofolate indicates that the rate of DNA synthesis is decreased in S phase cells in stationary cultures. Network thermodynamic simulations suggest that a reduction in the number of S phase cells and their thymidylate synthase catalytic activity would account for the observed decrease in the rate and extent of interconversion of tetrahydrofolate cofactors to dihydrofolate after trimetrexate in stationary phase cultures.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Nanoscale Polymer Processing

The established rules for fabricating plastics now require a rethink as feature sizes of the products head toward the nanoscale.