cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Nutrition Education Materials from the National Institutes of Health: Development, Review, and Availability

Many of the institutes, centers, and offices (ICOs) within the National Institutes of Health (NIH) develop and disseminate nutrition education materials for the general public. These materials provide information about the relationship of diet to health and about associations between diet and specific diseases. The materials, which are drafted by the NIH or contract science writers, go through pretesting (for literacy level and appropriateness for target audiences) and ICO clearance (for scientific accuracy). To further ensure scientific and technical accuracy and consistency with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, the materials then go through a two-tiered governmental review system. The first review is through the Nutrition Education Subcommittee (NES) of the NIH Nutrition Coordinating Committee. The second review, which is required for federal nutrition education materials, is conducted jointly by the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Nutrition Policy Board Committee on Dietary Guidance and by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Dietary Guidance Working Group. The review process helps ensure consistency in nutrition messages within the NIH ICOs and among government agencies. The pretesting, ICO clearance, NES review, and joint DHHS/USDA review result in materials for nutrition educators that are high in quality, low in cost or free, easily accessible, appropriate for the intended target audience, and consistent with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
Walt Disney - Revenue Recognition

Students are presented with excerpts from the significant-accounting-policies footnote in Walt Disney's 2003 Annual Report, and are asked to respond to several questions regarding information in the footnote. Questions center around Disney's revenue-recognition practices for various lines of business and the rationale for those practices.
Do Targeted Stipend Programs Reduce Gender and Socioeconomic Inequalities in Schooling Attainment? Insights From Rural Bangladesh

Social investment in schooling in low-income countries has increased greatly in the 1990s and 2000s because of the robust associations among schooling and demographic, economic, and health outcomes. This analysis investigates whether targeted school-attendance stipend programs succeeded in reducing gender and socioeconomic inequalities in school attainment among a sample of the rural poor in Bangladesh. Multivariate analyses find that targeted stipend programs helped to reduce the gender attainment gap. Females had an increased probability of participating in stipend programs, and returns to stipend participation were significantly higher for females. However, stipend programs failed to reduce the relative achievement gap between children of different socioeconomic backgrounds: low socioeconomic status (SES) was associated with a decreased probability of stipend participation, and stipend-related schooling gains for lower-SES females were matched by comparable gains for higher-SES females. Meanwhile, there was no significant association between stipend participation and schooling attainment for males.
Atomic and electronic structure of polar Fe 2 O 3 (0001)/MgO(111) interfaces

We present a first-principles investigation of the structural, electronic, and magnetic properties of ultrathin Fe${}_{2}$O${}_{3}$(0001) films on a polar MgO(111) substrate. The results imply that the heterointerface is atomically abrupt with oxidelike stacking for film thicknesses between $\ensuremath{\sim}$1.5 and 8.5 \AA{}. The Fe-Fe bilayer (nominal separation of 0.59 \AA{} in Fe${}_{2}$O${}_{3}$) at the interface collapses into an ``Fe${}_{2}$'' monolayer. Both electronic polarization and structural relaxations effectively screen the dipole field of the polar interface system. The structural relaxations---consisting of interpenetration, separation, and merger of Fe and oxygen planes---are particularly drastic in the three- and four-bilayers-thick films, giving rise to barrierless movement of oxygen towards the surface and the formation of an ``Fe${}_{2}|$FeO${}_{3}$'' layer structure not seen in hematite. Comparisons to calculations of unsupported polar Fe${}_{2}$O${}_{3}$(0001) slabs demonstrate that these unusual changes in stacking sequence and electronic structure are associated with the polar nature of this oxide heterointerface.
Examining stress and coping as a mediator for internalizing symptomatology: A comparison between sexual minority and majority first-year college students

Sexual and gender minority (SGM) adolescents experience unique stressors and elevated internalizing symptoms. This study examines differences in coping styles between SGM and heterosexual adolescents and the potential mediating roles of stress and coping styles. Analyses indicated that SGM (N = 75) adolescents reported higher levels of internalizing symptoms (depression, anxiety, and distress), higher use of maladaptive coping styles (denial and blame), lesser use of adaptive coping styles (reframing and religion), and greater experiences of stress, compared to their heterosexual counterparts (N = 1702). Bootstrapping analyses revealed the relationship between sexual identity and internalizing symptoms measured approximately 3 months later was not mediated by stress and coping, adjusting for gender, age, and baseline symptomatology. Findings suggest that earlier adolescent differences in internalizing symptoms presage increasing symptomatology across the transition to college, and other mediators during the college transition explain the continued increases in internalizing symptoms.
Tabulating All Pythagorean Triples

(1978). Tabulating All Pythagorean Triples. Mathematics Magazine: Vol. 51, No. 4, pp. 226-227.
Dynamic Balancing with Respect to a Given Trajectory

To control the parallel link robots with better performance in terms of high rigidity, high degree of accuracy, high speed or acceleration, high load-carrying capacity, static balancing, and dynamic balancing are important factors. Generally, static balancing can be obtained by using counterweights or springs, and no computer control is involved. On the other hand, dynamic balancing utilizes control system to coordinate the motions of balancing elements. In this chapter, we persist on dynamic balancing with respect to a given trajectory for the parallel link robots by modeling control system. This chapter is organized in the following manner. In section “Modeling of Kinematics,” geometric feature of Stewart Platform is introduced and modeling process of kinematics and Jacobian matrices is introduced. In section “Jacobian Analysis,” modeling process of Jacobian matrix is presented. In section “Dynamics,” modeling process of dynamics equations of a six DOF Stewart Platform is presented. In section “The Operational Space Formulation,” the Operational Space Formulation is presented to control task dynamics at the end-effector. In section “Trajectory Generation,” modeling method of smooth trajectory is presented. In section “Trajectory Tracking Control,” control method to realize stable trajectory tracking motion is presented. Finally, control method to realize dynamic balancing with respect to a given trajectory is presented in section “Dynamic Balancing with Respect to a Given Trajectory.”
Screening for the Expression of Soluble Recombinant Protein in Escherichia coli

Protein expression and purification have traditionally been time-consuming, case-specific endeavors, and are considered to be the greatest bottlenecks in most proteomics pipelines. Escherichia coli (E. coli) is the most convenient and cost-effective host, although optimal conditions for the expression of different proteins vary widely. Proteins vary in their structural stability, solubility, and toxicity in this environment, resulting in differing rates of protein degradation, formation into insoluble inclusion bodies, and cell death, thus affecting the amount of soluble protein that can be obtained from E. coli grown in culture. To take full advantage of a variety of strategies developed to improve the expression of soluble protein in E. coli, an easy, rapid means to test many growth parameters is necessary. This chapter describes a dot-blot expression screen to test the effects of growth and induction parameters on the yield of soluble protein. The expression screen is used to detect hexahistidine-tagged proteins expressed in E. coli; however, it is adaptable for the detection of other affinity tags or fusion partners that have suitable antibodies available. In this example, induction time and temperature are tested; however, it can be used to test additional parameters, such as affinity tag type and placement, E. coli host type, and growth medium formulations.
Postnatal growth of the human optic nerve.

PurposeAlthough the length of the average human adult optic nerve (ON) is known, the average length of the normal full-term, newborn ON has never been adequately evaluated, nor has the in vivo growth rate of the human ON been determined. We wanted to identify both the average length of the newborn human ON and its rate of anteroposterior growth.Patients and methodsUsing MRIs from a newly generated set of normal newborn infants rescanned at 1 year, and from different aged groups, we calculated average newborn ON length and growth rate.ResultsThe newborn human ON is 25.3±0.3 mm in length from globe to chiasm, and grows by 80% in length after birth, with maximum speed of elongation occurring in the first 3 years of life, attaining full length by 15 years of age.ConclusionThe human ON grows dramatically in the first 3 years of life, and continues to grow for the first two decades. These data are relevant for pediatric treatments that may impede or alter orbital growth in infants, and maximal susceptibility to oncological procedures in early childhood.
Time To Decide: To Call or Not to Call 911 During Weather Crises:

The purpose of this study was to measure response and reaction time (RT) to call 911 for five weather emergencies in order to determine whether participants considered them “serious” enough to call for help. Past research has shown that people fail to take emergency warnings seriously, possibly due to past experience and poor risk assessment. Participants were asked if they would call 911 if they witnessed weather emergencies. Response and RT were recorded. Results showed that participants did not agree on whether to call 911, showing a 50-50 split on most decisions. Participants were fast to indicate they would call 911 for tornadoes and hurricanes. No sex differences in RTs were found, but there was some variation within each sex. Fast RTs were predicted by news exposure, suggesting that recent experience is influential on one’s mental model, processing speed, and decision-making. Future research should use professionals and emergency personnel as a comparison group to this sample of young adults and fu...
Trauma-Focused Smoking Cessation for Smokers Exposed to the World Trade Center Disaster: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Introduction The main objective was to evaluate the efficacy of an 8-session, group-based comprehensive smoking cessation and trauma management (CSC-T) treatment among daily smokers (≥5 cigarettes/day) exposed to the World Trade Center (WTC) disaster with elevated WTC-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. Methods Participants (N = 90) were randomly assigned to CSC-T (N = 44; 63.6% white; 27.3% female; mean age = 51.32 ± 7.87) or comprehensive smoking cessation (CSC) alone (N = 46; 71.7% white; 28.3% female; mean age = 48.74 ± 10.66), which was comparable in length and time. Assessments included a diagnostic clinical interview and self-report measures of PTSD and respiratory symptoms, and smoking behavior, and biologically confirmed smoking abstinence. Evaluations occurred at a baseline visit, each treatment session, and at 1-, 2-, 4-, 12-, and 26-weeks post-treatment. Results The two treatments did not differ in regard to PTSD symptom improvement. After quit day (week 6), the two groups had similar 7-day (~15%) and 6-month (~20%) abstinence rates as well as average number of cigarettes smoked, and PTSD and respiratory symptoms. Conclusions It is possible that the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy skills specific to quitting smoking, group-based support, and degree of therapist contact, that were available in both treatments may have played a role in equalizing the abstinence rates between the two conditions. Although the current study found no evidence that the CSC-T was superior to the CSC alone treatment, the abstinence rates observed were high relative to previous trials of smokers with diagnosed PTSD. Further development of smoking cessation programs tailored to the needs of smokers with PTSD symptoms continues to be needed. Implications This study suggests that a CSC program aids in smoking abstinence for smokers with PTSD symptoms and that incorporating trauma management skills, may not add additional benefits for abstinence and PTSD and respiratory symptom relief. Further work is needed to improve smoking cessation efforts for smokers with PTSD symptoms.
A Reader’s Guide to al-Shāfiʿī’s Epistle on Legal Theory (al-Risāla)

ABSTRACTAl-Shāfiʿī’s famous Epistle on Legal Theory (al-Risāla) has long been hailed as formative for the discipline of Islamic legal theory (uṣūl al-fiqh), but its structure and the wording of some of its most important passages remain a puzzle. This essay is intended as an aide for the study of the Risāla’s Arabic text. It surveys scholarly disagreements about the work’s significance and structure, and argues that it is best understood as a sequence of three distinct compositions, the second and third having been appended to address issues raised by opponents during discussions about the first. Each ‘book’ makes a separate argument, has its own internal structure, and is distinguished by terminological and stylistic features. Most of the article consists of a detailed analytical outline that spells out what point al-Shāfiʿī is trying to make with each of his concrete legal examples, and shows how they fit together into a sequence of three related but separately organized arguments.
Exciting Developments for Microwave Sensing and Monitoring in Biology and Medicine [Health Matters]

Presents highlights of the IEEE Microwave Theory and Techniques Society 2016 International Microwave Symposium (IMS20, with emphasis on new developments in the area of microwave sensing and monitoring in biology and medicine. The exhilarating breadth of microwave technology and applications was amply displayed during this week-long gathering of enthusiastic scientists, engineers, and technologists from around the world.
Status and opportunity for distributed energy resources and microgrids in meeting the New York State energy vision

The Reforming the Energy Vision (REV) program of the New York State (NYS) outlines a strategy to reach the goal of having 50% of the electric power by renewable energy resources by the year 2030. Now realising that this date is not that far away, it seemed appropriate that an interim evaluation of the progress that has been made should be done based on the available information. The review provides a clear picture of the advancement of inverter-based PV generation in the state of New York, how the state might use inverter-based solar to power residences, and the interconnection of microgrids. In this paper we present a summary of the findings that include lists of possible challenges in areas of the program. Our review indicates that a number of distributed generation resources is growing. But a lot more work needs to be done to include new technologies to reach the goal of non-carbon-based electric power system that would be able to meet the future electrical energy needs of the New York State safely and efficiently.
Preparation and properties of star-branched polymers

The methods available for the preparation of star-branched polymers are described. After presentation of theoretical predictions of the effect of this type of branching on the properties of polymers, available experimental data are compared and critically discussed. Thermodynamic and visco-elastic properties at infinite dilution are first presented followed by visco-elastic properties in concentrated solution and the melt. Finally the effect of star-branching on T g of low molecular weight polymers is described.
Needs Assessment for Creating a Patient-Centered, Community-Engaged Health Program for Homeless Pregnant Women

Purpose Women who experience homelessness during pregnancy have poorer birth outcomes than the general population. This exploratory research describes the needs assessment of homeless women currently living at a shelter in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to identify unmet needs related to maternal and infant perinatal health as the first step in designing a mutually beneficial patient-centered service-learning program for medical students to address these needs. Methods Two 1-hour focus groups were held at a shelter for women who are homeless and/or victims of domestic violence. A total of 13 women participated in each session; four medical students and a physician served as facilitators and scribes at each session. The facilitators alternated asking predetermined open- and close-ended questions, followed by discussion among participants. Questions elicited experiences during pregnancy, what went well, what women living in the shelter struggled with, and what support they wished for but did not have. Scribes captured the conversation through hand-written notes and used content analysis in order of frequency. Results Thirteen themes were identified. The 5 most frequently identified themes were a need for pregnancy education, access/transportation, baby care, advocacy, and material necessities. Participating shelter residents and the medical students expressed interest in working with one another and forming a long-term partnership with the shelter. Conclusions Results of this needs assessment will inform the creation of a new shelter-based medical education program that will meet homeless women's needs while preparing medical students for patient-centered, community-responsive care.
Anselm’s Perfect God

Anselm of Canterbury is well known for his discussion of the nature of God. In the present paper I defend his methodology, then outline some of the attributes which he ascribes to God, noting problems and pointing towards Anselmian solutions. Anselm begins his analysis with the claim that God is a perfect being, beyond any limitation, “that than which no greater can be conceived”. His method is to unpack this concept of perfection and ascribe to God, to an unlimited degree, whatever attributes it is simply better to have than not. I begin with the controversial attributes of simplicity and eternity and then show how, given Anselm’s understanding of these attributes, the more standard attributes of omnipotence, omniscience, and perfect goodness, fit the Anselmian schema in which all of the attributes we ascribe to God are one and the same, and all identical with the divine nature.
Highly Resolved Brownian Motion in Space and in Time

Since the discovery of Brownian motion in bulk fluids by Robert Brown in 1827, Brownian motion at long timescales has been extensively studied both theoretically and experimentally for over a centu...
Mobilize to vaccinate: lessons learned from social mobilization for immunization in low and middle-income countries.

Creating and sustaining demand for immunization services is a global priority to ensure that vaccine-eligible populations are fully protected from vaccine-preventable diseases. Social mobilization ...
Teaching Motivational Interviewing to Medical Students: A Systematic Review.

Purpose Medical students must be prepared to work with patients with maladaptive health behaviors and chronic health conditions. Motivational interviewing (MI) is an evidence-based, patient-centered, directive communication style designed to help patients address behaviors that are detrimental to their health (e.g., substance abuse, poor diet). In this study, the authors systematically reviewed the evidence pertaining to MI curricula in medical schools. Their aims were to describe the pedagogical and content-related features of MI curricular interventions and to assess the effectiveness of the interventions and the quality of the research evidence. Method In March 2019, the authors searched databases, seeking studies on MI in medical schools. They manually extracted descriptive information, used the Medical Education Research Study Quality Instrument to assess the quality of the included studies, and synthesized the included studies' results. Results Sixteen studies met inclusion criteria. The majority of included studies were pre-post evaluation designs; the most rigorous were randomized controlled trials. MI curricula were heterogeneous, varying in timing, content, pedagogical approaches, and outcomes measured. Conclusions The results of this review suggest that the implementation of MI curricula in medical schools can be feasible and effective and that students can achieve beginning levels of proficiency. The results support the inclusion of MI in undergraduate medical education curricula and highlight next steps to advance this area of medical education research: achieving consensus around essential early MI skills that should be taught in medical schools and identifying the most effective scaffolding strategies to teach this complex mode of communication.
Prophase removal of chromosome-associated RNAs facilitates anaphase chromosome segregation

Abstract During mitosis, the genome is transformed from a decondensed, transcriptionally active state to a highly condensed, transcriptionally inactive state. Mitotic chromosome reorganization is marked by the general attenuation of transcription on chromosome arms, yet how the cell regulates nuclear and chromatin-associated RNAs after chromosome condensation and nuclear envelope breakdown is unknown. SAF-A/hnRNPU is an abundant nuclear protein with RNA-to-DNA tethering activity, coordinated by two spatially distinct nucleic acid binding domains. Here we show that RNA is evicted from prophase chromosomes through Aurora-B-dependent phosphorylation of the SAF-A DNA-binding domain; failure to execute this pathway leads to accumulation of SAF-A:RNA complexes on mitotic chromosomes and elevated rates of anaphase segregation defects. This work reveals a role for Aurora-B in removing chromatin-associated RNAs during prophase, and demonstrates that Aurora-B dependent relocalization of SAF-A during cell division contributes to the fidelity of chromosome segregation.
The differential contribution of segmental and suprasegmental aspects of a foreign English accent to negative perceptions by native and non-native speakers

Foreign accents are often stereotyped as a “broken” form of the language, triggering negative reactions in native listeners—a phenomenon attributed to a general reduction in cognitive fluency. This study aims to determine the relative contributions of segmental and suprasegmental features to the perception of foreign-accented speech. Sentences in English were recorded by native speakers of Russian, Italian, and English (the latter as a control group). The recordings were manipulated to form 3 sets: naturally produced, intonation only (i.e., filtered in Praat with a low-pass Hann filter), and segmental only (i.e., foreign pronunciation was preserved in terms of consonants and vowels, but the intonation resembled that of English). Each utterance was presented to native (n = 26) and non-native English speakers (n = 32) residing in NYC and rated on several dimensions on a 1-5 Likert scale. The results support previous findings, indicating that foreign accents cause speakers to be perceived more negatively even in strongly multicultural environments. We discuss the effects of segmental/suprasegmental information in native and non-native perception and a number of language-specific patterns. This study adds to the body of work on the mechanisms underlying listeners' reactions to foreign-accented speech.
A Type II Split Cord Malformation in an Adult Patient: An Operative Case Report

Background and importance Split cord malformations (SCMs) are rare conditions in which the spinal cord is split into two hemicords within either a single thecal sac or two separate thecal sacs. The hemicords are typically split by a bony or fibrous structure. We present an adult patient who presented with a type II SCM with tethered cord. This is the first case of such a presentation with an accompanying intraoperative video. Unusual features of the case were the presence of an incomplete fibrous septum and lack of a discrete filum terminale. Clinical presentation A 50-yr-old woman presented with back pain, radiculopathy, urinary urgency, and episodic fecal incontinence. Her exam was notable for weakness of the right extensor hallicus longus. Imaging showed an SCM extending from L3 to S1, a fibrous septum located at L4-5, and a low-lying conus at S4. She was treated with a decompressive L3-S4 laminectomy and disconnection of all the dural attachment points. She required lumbar drain placement postoperatively and reoperation for wound dehiscence and persistent pseudomeningocele. At the time of last follow-up, she was neurologically intact with improvement in bowel/bladder function. Conclusion SCM is an uncommon presentation in adults and is often accompanied by findings of skin stigmata, tethered cord, and other central nervous system/skeletal anomalies. Obtaining full multimodal imaging is critical to understanding subtle anatomic variations that can pose operative challenges. We report the treatment of an adult patient with type II SCM, and provide an intraoperative video demonstrating the removal of an incomplete midline fibrous septum.
Spectroscopic, microscopic, and internal stress analysis in cadmium telluride grown by close-space sublimation

Abstract High quality materials with excellent ordered structure are needed for developing photovoltaic and infrared devices. With this end in mind, the results of our research prove the importance of a detailed, comprehensive spectroscopic and microscopic analysis in assessing cadmium telluride (CdTe) characteristics. The goal of this work is to examine not only material crystallinity and morphology, but also induced stress in the deposit material. A uniform, selective growth of polycrystalline CdTe by close-space sublimation on patterned Si(111) and Si(211) substrates is demonstrated by scanning electron microscopy images. Besides good crystallinity of the samples, as revealed by both Raman scattering and Fourier transform infrared absorption investigations, the far-infrared transmission data also show the presence of surface optical phonon modes, which is direct evidence of confinement in such a material. The qualitative identification of the induced stress was achieved by performing confocal Raman mapping microscopy on sample surfaces and by monitoring the existence of the rock-salt and zinc-blende structural phases of CdTe, which were associated with strained and unstrained morphologies, respectively. Although the induced stress in the material is still largely due to the high lattice mismatch between CdTe and the Si substrate, the current results provide a direct visualization of its partial release through the relaxation effect at crystallite boundaries and of preferential growth directions of less strain. Our study, thus offers significant value for improvement of material properties, by targeting the needed adjustments in the growth processes.
Relational Positioning As Intermediate Social Structure in Identity Theory

Identity theory is concerned with how the self is shaped by social forces. This research examines how the ability to traverse the physical environment shapes the prominence and salience of the religious identity. We propose that relational positioning in terms of the distance between locations where identities are enacted, is a form of intermediate social structure which facilitates and constrains contact with identity-related others. The physical environment impacts the identity process by shaping the composition of one’s daily contacts, for example, someone who has to travel a long way to church will have a less religiously homogenous social circle, which shapes the subsequent identity process. This proposition is examined using data collected from individuals residing in communities which vary in the difficulty of traveling through the physical environment. The results support the inclusion of relational positioning as a form of intermediate social structure in identity theory, opening a potential pathway for connecting research on social inequalities and identity theory.
Complex Physiological Phenotypes: Structural Variation in the Muscle Voltage-Gated Sodium Channel Imparts Resistance to Lethal Scorpion Toxins

SUMMARYExtreme environments drive the evolution of adaptations that underlie tolerance to painful stimuli. However, painful stimuli provide valuable warnings to animals about conditions that could damage tissues or cause death. Thus, reduced pain sensitivity should evolve as part of a phenotype that includes physiological resistance to lethal stimuli. Interactions between Arizona (AZ) bark scorpions and southern grasshopper mice provide an ideal system to investigate complex physiological phenotypes across multiple levels of biological organization. Grasshopper mice prey on AZ bark scorpions, despite the painful and deadly toxins associated with their sting. Adaptation of the pain receptor Nav1.8 imparts grasshopper mice with resistance to painful toxins, but mechanisms underlying resistance to lethal toxins, necessary for survival, remain unknown. The pathophysiological effects of bark scorpion venom include respiratory failure from impaired muscle contraction. Two classes of venom proteins, alpha and beta toxins, enhance activation and delay inactivation in the voltage-gated sodium channel (Nav1.4) that regulates muscle contraction. We show that grasshopper mice soleus muscle is resistant to bark scorpion venom, and that Nav1.4 is resistant to alpha- and beta-toxin effects on channel activation and inactivation. Reduced sensitivity to b-toxin effects on activation is due, in part, to molecular variation at two distinct locations within the channel. Computational models of Nav1.4 revealed that amino acid substitutions alter the biochemical properties of the channel near toxin binding sites. Elucidating the structure-activity relationships in physiologically critical proteins will advance efforts to determine the rules that govern how genotypes interact with the environment to yield complex physiological phenotypes.
Energy-orientated Machine Scheduling for Hybrid Flow Shops☆

Abstract Due to the expansion of renewable energies in Germany, the electrical energy supply is shifting to a complex and volatile system. Therefore, supply and demand need to be synchronized in an efficient way. Companies can profit from capacity based supply conditions and price volatility of the market by implementing the concept of energy flexibility. The objective is, to transform the supply and price signals into the production organization. As one option, a production site can adapt its operation and therewith its power demand. This paper aims to develop a heuristic method for machine scheduling and to apply the result to a given problem, which considers energy flexibility.
Increased operating temperature range in La-modified Pb(Mg/sub 1/3/Nb/sub 2/3/)O/sub 3/-PbTiO/sub 3/ relaxor ferroelectric-based transducers

The large E-field induced strains and electromechanical coupling in PMN-based relaxors have been utilized in actuator and transducer applications. The effect of La/sup 3+/ modifications on the field-dependent dielectric and piezoelectric properties was investigated for several (1-x)PMN-(x)PT compositions with transition regions near room temperature. The effect of La/sup 3+/ modifications, increasing the width of the micro-macro polar transition range (/spl Delta/T), defined as the difference between the temperature of maximum permittivity (T/sub max/) and the depolarization temperature (T/sub d/), results in a broader temperature range for obtaining large induced electromechanical coupling factors with negligible hysteresis.
Inhibition of the Plaquing Efficiency of T4r+ Bacteriophage by Subtilisin

The mechanism by which the replicative cycle of T4r+ phage is inhibited by certain nonhost bacterial systems was investigated. Some Bacillaceae, especially Bacillus subtilis, decreased the plaquing efficiency of this virus more than 95% within 24 hr of exposure. Sarcina lutea and Micrococcus sp. both failed to cause any significant change in the infectivity of T4r+ phage. Preliminary investigations into the nature of the inhibitory substance(s) suggested that an extracellularly elicited protein was at least partially responsible for this effect. Further analysis has implicated subtilisin, an exoprotease from B. subtilis, as the cause of some, if not all, of the observed decrease in plaquing efficiency. Gel-filtration chromatography of control and treated 14C-labeled T4r+ phage showed a wide dispersal of phage-specific material of these particles after 24 hr of exposure to pure subtilisin or to expended medium exoprotease from B. subtilis. It was concluded that B. subtilis exoprotease is capable of chemically altering the structure of the phage capsid, thus causing a decrease in its plaquing efficiency.
The Role of Compliant Fingerpads in Grasping and Manipulation: Identification and Control

Manual exploration and manipulation of unknown objects in unstructured environments require sensory guided motor control strategies. For humans or general purpose robots, the presence of compliant fingerpads is crucial in enhancing the stability of grasp and manipulability, and the objects they encounter are often compliant. In this paper, we apply well known system identification and control methods to enable successful grasping and manipulation of compliant objects using compliant fingerpads. Through the use of linear and nonlinear lumped parameter models, we describe the dynamic relationships between the external forces exerted on the fingers and the contact forces imposed on the object. We present two approaches to realize the necessary control actions, one where the identification of the system parameters is followed by control, and the other where an adaptive control strategy is used. We illustrate the importance of tactile information in not only satisfying the necessary interface constraints, but also in simplifying the identification and control procedures for successful performance of grasping and manipulation tasks.
Root graviresponsiveness and columella cell structure in carotenoid-deficient seedlings of Zea mays

Root graviresponsiveness in normal and carotenoid-deficient mutant seedlings of Zea mays was not significantly different. Columella cells in roots of mutant seedlings were characterized by fewer, smaller, and a reduced relative volume of plastids as compared to columella cells of normal seedlings. Plastids in columella cells of mutant seedlings possessed reduced amounts of starch. Although approximately 10 per cent of the columella cells in mutant seedlings lacked starch, their plastids were located at the bottom of the cell. These results suggest that (i) carotenoids are not necessary for root gravitropism, (ii) graviresponsiveness is not necessarily proportional to the size, number, or relative volume of plastids in columella cells, and (iii) sedimentation of plastids in columella cells may not result directly from their increased density due to starch content. Plastids in columella cells of normal and mutant seedlings were associated with bands of microtubule-like structures, suggesting that these structures may be involved in 'positioning' plastids in the cell.
High mobility group A2 is a target for miRNA-98 in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

HMGA2 expression has been shown to be associated with enhanced selective chemosensitivity towards the topoisomerase (topo) II inhibitor, doxorubicin, in cancer cells. Although the roles of signaling cascades and proteins as regulatory factors in development, neoplasia and adaptation to the environment are becoming well established, evidence for the involvement of regulatory small RNA molecules, such as microRNAs (miRNAs) as important regulators of both transcriptional and posttranscriptional gene silencing is presently mounting. Here we report that HMGA2 expression in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cells is regulated in part by miRNA-98 (miR-98). Albeit HMGA2 is associated with enhanced selective chemosensitivity towards topoisomerase (topo) II inhibitor, doxorubicin in HNSCC, the expression of HMGA2 is thwarted by hypoxia. This is accompanied by enhanced expression of miRNA-98 and other miRNAs, which predictably target HMGA2. Moreover, we show that transfection of pre-miR-98™ during normoxia diminishes HMGA2 and potentiates resistance to doxorubicin and cisplatin. These findings implicate the role of a miRNA as a key element in modulating tumors in variable microenvironments. These studies validate the observation that HMGA2 plays a prominent role in governing genotoxic responses. However, this may only represent cells growing under normal oxygen tensions. The demonstration that miRNA profiles are altered during hypoxia and repress a genotoxic response indicates that changes in microenvironment in eukaryotes mimic those of lower species and plants, where, for example, abiotic stresses regulate the expression of thousands of genes in plants at both transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels through a number of miRNAs and other small regulatory RNAs.
Localization of HArep-Containing Genes on the Chromosome of Porphyromonas gingivalis W83

We have mapped a group of virulence genes of Porphyromonas gingivalis to a single large fragment of the genome. These genes (rgpA, kgp, and hagA) all contain a consensus repeat sequence (HArep). rgpA and kgp encode cysteine proteases with Arg-X and Lys-X specificity, respectively, and hagA encodes a hemagglutinin. Genomic DNA fragments separated by pulse-field gel electrophoresis were blotted and probed in order to localize the genes to a 0.25-Mb NheI fragment of the P. gingivalis W83 genome. Further hybridization analyses with single- and double-restriction digestion allowed us to generate a physical map of the fragment and determine the precise locations of the protease and hemagglutinin genes. In addition, we found an insertion-like sequence, IS195, near the ends of the 0. 25-Mb NheI fragment. A similarly sized fragment carrying HArep sequences was also demonstrated in the P. gingivalis W12 and W50 genomes.
Tenofovir use and renal insufficiency among pregnant and general adult population of HIV-infected, ART-naïve individuals in Lilongwe, Malawi.

Background The Malawian government recently changed its prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) regimen and plans to change its first-line antiretroviral therapy (ART) regimen to Tenofovir(TDF)/Lamivudine/Efavirenz as a fixed-dose combination tablet. Implementation could be challenging if baseline creatinine clearance (CrCl) screening were required to assess renal function prior to TDF therapy. Our goal is to determine predictors of CrCl<50 ml/min among HIV-infected, ART-naive individuals. Methodology Data on HIV-infected, ART-naive adults screened for enrollment into 5 HIV clinical trials in Lilongwe, Malawi were combined for a pooled analysis of predictors for CrCl<50 ml/min. CrCl was derived from the Cockroft-Gault equation. Multivariable logistic regression modeled the association of age, body mass index (BMI), hemoglobin, CD4 cell count <350 cells/mm3, gender, and pregnancy with CrCl<50 ml/min. Results The analysis included 3508 patients with values for creatinine clearance. Most subjects were female (90.6%) with a median age of 26 years (IQR 22–29). The median CD4 cell count was 444 (IQR 298.0–561.0), and 85.2% percent of women in our study were pregnant. Few patients had CrCl<50 ml/min (n = 38, 1.1%). A BMI less than 18.5 in non-pregnant females (OR = 8.87, 95% CI = 2.45–32.09)) was associated with CrCl<50 ml/min. Hemoglobin level higher than 10 g/dL in males (OR = 0.69, 95% CI = 0.56–0.86) and non-pregnant females (OR = 0.21, 95% CI = 0.04–0.97) was protective against CrCl<50 ml/min. Discussion Our findings indicate few patients would be excluded from a TDF-based antiretroviral regimen, suggesting baseline creatinine clearance assessment may not be necessary for implementation. However, in ART settings individuals with low BMI or anemia could potentially be at increased risk for lower CrCl.
Intrinsic LiNbO3 melt species partitioning at the congruent melt composition II. Dynamic interface case

Abstract Crystal growth from a stirred melt is discussed by considering the relationship of a phase diagram partition coefficient, kj0, and its effective partition coefficient, kjE, for all of the seven LiNbO3 intrinsic species. Here, the interface electric field become s an extremely important variable for the crystallization process. The causes of these electric fields, i.e., the thermoelectric power and the charge separation effects (crystallization EMF), are a function of growth velocity, V, temperature gradient,GL, and solute boundary layer thickness, δC. Additionally, the chemical conversion reactions in the melt are taken into account. The above considerations eventually lead us to discuss conditions for the dynamic congruent-state growth of LiNbO3 via the Czochralski technique and to set up the most appropriate congruent composition for each bulk crystal growth condition from a finite amount of melt, 1−g. For the best congruent-state growth, one must find an appropriate combination of δC(g),V(g) andGL(g) which satisfies the conditions that, as much as possible, lead to a crystal with approximately constant composition.
The evidence is at hand for improving care in settings where residents train.

Seven years ago the Institute of Medicine’s report, Crossing the Quality Chasm1, issued a challenge to transform America’s healthcare system. If this challenge is to be met any time soon, it will require profound leadership by general internists. This, in turn, requires that the next generation of internists be trained in residency programs with a commitment to transforming healthcare in the settings where those future physicians train and practice. In 1999, the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) radically redefined physician competence by framing two of the six core physician competencies as system redesign and improvement—Systems-Based Practice (SBP) and Practice-Based Learning and Improvement (PBLI).2 The American Board of Medical Specialties adopted the same competencies for specialty certification, thus acknowledging the importance of the continuum of a physician’s learning. These two competencies redefined healthcare and health professions’ education by acknowledging physicians’ professional responsibility to improve healthcare and systems.
Combinatorial Synthesis and Evaluation of Vanadium Oxide Films

Combinatorial technology is a powerful tool for new material exploration. La1-xCaxVO3 composition-spread films were fabricated by combinatorial pulsed laser deposition and their thermoelectric properties were evaluated paralelly by the multi-channel thermoelectric measurement system. Concurrent X-ray analysis verified the formation of solid soluted films in the full composition range (0≤x≤1) as judged from the linear variation of the lattice constants. Growth conditions of LaVO3 films were optimized. Good crystallinity of LaVO3 film was obtained at 800°C, and the power factor of 0.6 µW/cm K2 was achieved. The effects of oxygen content and the substitutions of Ca and Ce ions on TE properties of were also analysed respectively. Large TE properties in vanadium oxide system can be expected with the change of vanadium ion valence from 3+ to 2+. In La1-xCexVO3(0≤x≤1) system, Ce ion takes 3+ although Ce4+ is stable in theory.
BodyBeats: whole-body, musical interfaces for children

This work in progress presents the BodyBeats Suite--three prototypes built to explore the interaction between children and computational musical instruments by using sound and music patterns. Our goals in developing the BodyBeats prototypes are (1) to help children engage their whole bodies while interacting with computers, (2) foster collaboration and pattern learning, and (3) provide a playful interaction for creating sound and music. We posit that electronic instruments for children that incorporate whole-body movement can provide active ways for children to play and learn with technology (while challenging a growing rate of childhood obesity). We describe how we implemented our current BodyBeats prototypes and discuss how users interact with them. We then highlight our plans for future work in the fields of whole-body interaction design, education, and music.
Establishment and neurite outgrowth properties of neonatal and adult rat olfactory bulb glial cell lines

Abstract Two glial cell types surround olfactory axons and glomeruli in the olfactory bulb (OB) and may influence synapse development and regeneration. OB astrocytes resemble type-1 astrocytes, and OB ensheating cells resemble non-myelinating Schwann cells. We have produced clonal OB astrocyte and ensheathing cell lines from rat neonatal and adult OB cultures by SV40 large T antigen transduction. These cell lines have been characterized by morphology, growth characteristics, immunophenotype, and ability to promote neurite outgrowth in vitro. Neonatal and adult ensheathing cell lines were found to support higher neurite outgrowth than OB astrocyte lines. Neonatal OB astrocyte lines were of two types, high and low outgrowth support. The low support astrocyte lines express J1 and a chondroitin sulfate-containing proteoglycan as do astrocytes encircling the neonatal glomeruli in vivo. The adult OB astrocyte cell lines supported lower levels of outgrowth than adult ensheathing cell lines. These results are consistent with a positive role for ensheathing cells in OB synapse regeneration, in vivo. Further, based on our results, we hypothesize that ensheating cells and high-outgrowth astrocytes facilitate axon growth in vivo, while low outgrowth astrocytes inhibit axon growth and may facilitate glomerulus formation.
972–103 A Monoclonal Antibody Directed Against ICAM-1 Reduces Myocardial Stunning Following Ischemia and Reperfusion

Previous studies have demonstrated that monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) that neutralize ICAM-l reduce myocardial necrosis following ischemia and reperfusion, We investigated the effects of a MAb directed against rat ICAM-l (1A29) in a rat model of myocardial reperfusion injury, Isolated, Krebs buffer perfused rat hearts (n = 7/group) were subjected to 20 min of global ischemia followed by 45 min of reperfusion, Forty million human neutrophils (PMNs) and 5 cc of rat plasma were infused into each heart during the first 5 min of reperfusion, Immunohistochemical staining of ischemic-reperfused myocardium revealed prominent endothelial ICAM-1 expression and PMN accumulation in coronary arterioles and venules in untreated hearts, In addition, left ventricular developed pressure (LVDP), pressure-rate product (PRP). and coronary flow (CF) were measured at baseline and at 5 minute intervals throughout the 45 min reperfusion period, When compared to control hearts receiving human PMNs and rat plasma alone, treatment with lA29 1300 μg/heart) significantly (p l 0.01) enhanced recovery of LVDP after 45 min of reperfusion (90.8 ± 12.7% vs. 42.8 ± 5.5%), The recovery of PRP at 45 min of reperfusion was 89.7 ± 15.6% in lA29 treated hearts compared to 42.2 ± 5.3% in the control hearts (p l 0.02), Furthermore, treatment with 1A29 significantly preserved CF at 45 min of reperfusion (73.9 ± 5.3% vs, 48.9 ± 6.9%, P l 0.05). Histological analysis of hearts receiving lA29 demonstrated a significant reduction in PMN accumulation, We conclude that inhibition of ICAM-l mediated PMN adhesion in the initial phase of reperfusion significantly attenuates neutrophil induced postischemic myocardial contractile dysfunction.