cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Product nutrition, innovation, advertising, and firm’s financial gains

Abstract Improving product nutrition has become an increasingly important area of innovation in the food and beverage industry. However, the contribution made by a product’s nutritional quality to the firm’s bottom line has been little studied. To fill this gap, we first developed an analytical model to study the relationship between a product’s nutritional quality and the firm’s profit, and then investigated the role of package innovation and advertising in this relationship. The results show that a product’s nutritional quality has a concave relationship with the firm’s profit, and that the relationship is influenced positively by both package innovation and advertising. Finally, we empirically examined product nutrition across a wide range of product categories and corresponding firms’ profits over multiple years to test if the results derived from our analytical models hold for empirical data from real businesses. Furthermore, we empirically investigated how a new product’s nutritional quality impacts the firm’s stock return after the product’s introduction.
Veterans and animals: A review of the literature on well-being and social isolation and recommendations during COVID-19

LAY SUMMARY Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the negative consequences of social isolation on well-being, the authors wanted to better understand the impact animals have on Veteran well-being durin...
Surveillance along the Rio Grande during the 2020 Vesicular Stomatitis Outbreak Reveals Spatio-Temporal Dynamics of and Viral RNA Detection in Black Flies.

Vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) emerges periodically from its focus of endemic transmission in southern Mexico to cause epizootics in livestock in the US. The ecology of VSV involves a diverse, but largely undefined, repertoire of potential reservoir hosts and invertebrate vectors. As part of a larger program to decipher VSV transmission, we conducted a study of the spatiotemporal dynamics of Simulium black flies, a known vector of VSV, along the Rio Grande in southern New Mexico, USA from March to December 2020. Serendipitously, the index case of VSV-Indiana (VSIV) in the USA in 2020 occurred at a central point of our study. Black flies appeared soon after the release of the Rio Grande’s water from an upstream dam in March 2020. Two-month and one-year lagged precipitation, maximum temperature, and vegetation greenness, measured as Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), were associated with increased black fly abundance. We detected VSIV RNA in 11 pools comprising five black fly species using rRT-PCR; five pools yielded a VSIV sequence. To our knowledge, this is the first detection of VSV in the western US from vectors that were not collected on premises with infected domestic animals.
Dynamic Single Flux Quantum Majority Gates

Among the major issues in modern large scale rapid single flux quantum circuits are the complexity of the clock network, tight timing tolerances, poor applicability of existing CMOS EDA techniques, and extremely deep pipelines which reduce the effective clock frequency. In this chapter, asynchronous dynamic SFQ majority gates are proposed to solve some of these problems. The proposed logic gates exhibit high bias margins and do not require significant area or a large number of Josephson junctions as compared to existing RSFQ logic gates. These gates exhibit a tradeoff among the input skew tolerance, clock frequency, and bias margins. Asynchronous logic gates greatly reduce the complexity of the clock network in large scale RSFQ circuits, thereby alleviating certain timing issues while reducing the required bias currents. Furthermore, asynchronous logic allows existing EDA tools to utilize CMOS approaches for synthesis, verification, and testability. The adoption of majority logic in complex RSFQ circuits also reduces the pipeline depth, enabling higher clock speeds in VLSI RSFQ circuits.
Remote focusing in a temporal focusing microscope

In a temporal focusing microscope, dispersion can remotely shift the temporal focal plane axially, but only a single depth can be in focus at a time on a fixed camera. In this paper, we demonstrate remote focusing in a temporal focusing microscope. Dispersion tuning with an electrically tunable lens (ETL) in a 4f pulse shaper scans the excitation plane axially, and another ETL in the detection path keeps the shifted excitation plane in focus on the camera. Image stacks formed using two ETLs versus a traditional stage scan are equivalent.
Improved Prognostic Performance of Cardiac Power Output with Right Atrial Pressure: A Sub-Analysis of the ESCAPE Trial.

ABSTRACT Introduction : The initial derivation of cardiac power output (CPO) included the difference between mean arterial pressure (MAP) and right atrial pressure (RAP) in the numerator, before multiplying by cardiac output (CO). We hypothesized that the inclusion of RAP (CPO-RAP) would enhance the prognostic performance of this parameter in those with elevated RAP. Methods : We obtained patient-level data from ESCAPE trial via the Biolincc database. Participants with full final hemodynamics were included in the analysis. CPO-RAP was calculated as [(MAP-RAP)xCO)]/451 Watts (W), and CPO was calculated as (MAPxCO)/451. The primary outcome was freedom from left ventricular assist device, heart transplant, or death at six months. Results : Included participants (n=157) were median 58 (IQR 49-67) years, 27% women, and 59% ischemic cardiomyopathy. Median CPO 0.70 W (IQR 0.50-0.90), median CPO-RAP 0.62 W (IQR 0.47-0.79). In univariable logistic regressions, CPO was not associated with the primary outcome, OR 0.32 (95%CI 0.08-1.29, p=0.11), but CPO-RAP was, OR 0.10 (95%CI 0.02-0.54, p 8 mmHg (66% vs 45%, p Conclusion : The inclusion of RAP resulted in a significant association with the primary outcome, while CPO, alone, was not.
Dynamically vulcanized thermoplastic elastomers based on 4-methyl-1-pentene polymers

Abstract This study explores the use of semi-crystalline polypropylene (PP) and poly(4-methyl-1-pentene) (PMP) as a thermoplastic phase for the production of TPVs containing ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber (EPDM) as the elastomer phase. The presence of isobutyl pendant group results in the plastic phase having nearly similar amorphous and crystalline density. The replacement of PP in TPV with PMP produces fine dispersion of rubber particles in the thermoplastic phase. The high melting point of PMP enables the production of high temperature TPVs with use temperature >150 °C. The change of thermoplastic phase to PMP is therefore an effective strategy in producing softer TPVs with superior high temperature properties. The unique microstructure of PMP with poor chain packing results in exceptional breathability (CO2 permeability) that is nearly 2–3 times relative to TPV containing PP. Additionally PMP-based TPV exhibits exceptionally low thermal conductivity (0.153 W/m.K) due to the plastic phase. The excellent insulating properties make PMP-based TPV suitable as material for thermal insulation Finally, by a judicious selection of processing oil, it is possible to refine the microstructure and dispersion of rubber particles in the TPVs. The replacement of mineral oil with ester oil with solubility parameter closer to the polyolefins leads to superior mechanical, permeability, and thermal properties.
Convergence and Mobius Groups

In this paper we collect together a few results on the topological conjugacy of convergence groups to conformal or Mobius groups. Convergence groups were first introduced in [G.M. I,II] and their basic properties were established as well as the classification of the structure of elementary convergence groups. Convergence groups have been found to be a natural generalization of Kleinian or Mobius groups to the topological category. In particular if one wishes to topologically characterize Mobius groups amongst groups of homeomorphisms of Sn, the unit sphere of R n+1, then one is led to the necessary condition that such a group is a convergence group. This is not in general a sufficient condition when n ≥ 2 as there are many nonstandard convergence groups, see [G.M. I,II], [F.S.] and [M.G.] for a variety of examples. We will see however that under certain reasonable restrictions the condition of being a convergence group will suffice in dimension two and three.
Nagging: A Distributed, Adversarial Search-Pruning Technique Applied to First-Order Inference

This article introduces a parallel search-pruning technique called nagging. Nagging is sufficiently general to be effective in a number of domains; here we focus on an implementation for first-order theorem proving, a domain both responsive to a very simple nagging model and amenable to many refinements of this model. Nagging’s scalability and intrinsic fault tolerance make it particularly suitable for application in commonly available, low-bandwidth, high-latency distributed environments. We present several nagging models of increasing sophistication, demonstrate their effectiveness empirically, and compare nagging with related work in parallel search.
Regulatory affairs revisited: Practitioner or professional?

The regulatory affairs stereotypes presented by the author are meant to highlight some basic faults and foibles that distinguish the mere practitioner of the regulatory affairs discipline from the true regulatory affairs professional. General regulatory affairs style stereotypes are presented, followed by some international examples. These international stereotypes are meant to highlight ways that national cultures and attitudes may interfere with the free exchange of regulatory affairs information and cooperation between regulatory professionals from different countries. The description of each stereotype is followed by suggestions of ways to improve your effectiveness and professionalism. The author intends no insult to any individual or nationality, but instead, sincerely wishes that these examples will challenge the readers to survey their regulatory style, and work to improve their professionalism, within their own home country and internationally. The author further hopes that this article will trigger discussion and prompt additional positive suggestions from others on how each of us might become more professional and effective in the international aspects of our jobs.
Invasion and metastasis models for studying RhoGDI2 in bladder cancer.

Abstract Invasion and metastasis are the critical steps in cancer progression that lead to death from this disease. Intense investigation into the underlying mechanisms of metastasis has revealed a complex set of signaling pathways that regulate the process. Since the mid‐1980s, it has been demonstrated that the Rho family of proteins plays a major role in these pathways. Proteins that regulate Rho, including guanine nucleotide exchange factors, GTPase‐activating proteins, and Rho GDP dissociation inhibitors (RhoGDIs), have also been shown to contribute to cancer progression. Among this group of Rho‐regulating proteins is RhoGDI2 (RhoGDIbeta/LyGDI/GDID4/RabGDIbeta). Our laboratory initially identified RhoGDI2 as a metastasis suppressor due to its differential expression between metastatically capable and poorly metastatic bladder cancer cell lines. Over the subsequent years, in vivo and in vitro systems have been used to model steps in the metastatic cascade and to test how the expression of RhoGDI2 affected those processes. This chapter describes several of the more significant methods used to investigate the role of RhoGDI2 in bladder cancer invasion and metastasis. These methods include an in vitro assay for invasion using bladder organ cultures, lung metastasis assays in immunocompromised murine hosts, polymerase chain reaction‐based quantification of metastatic burden, and derivation of increasingly metastatic cell lines.
A plant-inducible gene of Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris encodes an exocellular component required for growth in the host and hypersensitivity on nonhosts.

Using Tn4431, a transposon that allows transcriptional fusions to a promoterless luciferase (lux) operon, we have isolated a nonpathogenic mutant of Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris, i.e., JS111, that does not incite any of the black rot symptoms on all tested cruciferous host plants (J. J. Shaw, L. G. Settles, and C. I. Kado, Mol. Plant Microbe Interact. 1:39-45, 1988). In the study reported here, we determined that in contrast to the wild-type strain, JS111 is unable to induce a hypersensitive necrotic response on nonhost plants such as datura, tomato, and cucumber, suggesting that JS111 is a nonpathogenic, nonhypersensitive Hrp mutant. JS111 displayed culture growth rates, exopolysaccharide production, and protease, pectate lysase, cellulase, amylase, and phosphatase activities comparable to those of the wild-type strain. However, the growth of JS111 in host leaves was markedly attenuated. Coinoculation of JS111 with the wild-type strain in cauliflower or radish leaves rescued the growth deficiency of the mutant to normal levels. The locus mutated in JS111 was cloned and named hrpXc, and transcriptional and genetic complementation analyses of the hrpXc locus were conducted. The regulation of hrpXc expression was also investigated in vitro and in planta, using fusions to a lux or chloramphenicol acetyltransferase reporter gene. The hrpXc gene was found to be strongly induced in radish leaves. This is the first report and analysis of a hrp locus from a Xanthomonas species.
Malignant pleural endometriosis

Abstract A fatal case of sarcomatous transformation of endometriosis is presented. Endometriosis was present in the pelvis, abdomen, and right pleural cavity. Neoplastic transformation, culminating in a mesenchymal sarcoma, was present in both abdominal and pleural locations. To our knowledge, this is the first reported instance of sarcoma arising in pleural endometriosis.
The Politics of Building Municipal Institutional Effectiveness in Chile

Institutional effectiveness varies widely across Chile's 346 municipalities. Whereas some local governments seem to work with impeccable precision, others struggle to deliver basic services and welfare benefits to the population. This article seeks to explain why such variation exists; it combines quantitative and qualitative evidence to show how mayors can play a crucial role in building institutional effectiveness. The study focuses on the administration of Chile's municipal job placement offices. It finds that municipalities where mayors have held office for three or more consecutive terms exhibit stronger institutional capacity than those localities where electoral turnover is the norm. The analysis, therefore, underscores an interesting finding: electoral competition has the potential both to improve and to undermine administrative capacity.
The effect of soy protein with or without isoflavones relative to milk protein on plasma lipids in hypercholesterolemic postmenopausal women.

Background Clinical trial data and the results of a meta-analysis suggest a hypocholesterolemic effect of soy protein. The effect may be partially attributable to the isoflavones in soy. Few studies have examined the separate effects of soy protein and isoflavones. Objective The objective of this study was to determine the effect of soy protein and isoflavones on plasma lipid concentrations in postmenopausal, moderately hypercholesterolemic women. Design This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial with 3 treatment groups. After a 4-wk run-in phase during which the women consumed a milk protein supplement, the subjects were randomly assigned to 12 wk of dietary protein supplementation (42 g/d) with either a milk protein (Milk group) or 1 of 2 soy proteins containing either trace amounts of isoflavones (Soy- group) or 80 mg aglycone isoflavones (Soy+ group). Results LDL-cholesterol concentrations decreased more in the Soy+ group (n = 31) than in the Soy- group (n = 33) (0.38 compared with 0.09 mmol/L; P = 0.005), but neither of these changes was significantly different from the 0.26-mmol/L decrease observed in the Milk group (n = 30). The results for total cholesterol were similar to those for LDL cholesterol. There were no significant differences in HDL-cholesterol or triacylglycerol concentrations between the 3 groups. Conclusions The difference in total- and LDL-cholesterol lowering between the 2 soy-protein supplements suggests an effect attributable to the isoflavone-containing fraction. However, the unexpected LDL-cholesterol lowering observed in the Milk group, and the fact that there was no significant difference between either soy group and the Milk group, suggests that changes may have been due to other factors related to participation in the study.
Exception handling in the BPEL4WS language

Graph oriented models are at the core of most business process management systems. In recent years, "algebraic" business process modeling languages based on different process calculi have been proposed. The semantics of these algebraic process languages are quite different, and seemingly incompatible, with those of graph oriented approaches. In this paper we study how the BPEL4WS exception handling mechanism is used to integrate the algebraic and graph process models. Unlike other approaches to exception handling in business processes, the BPEL4WS model does not require that the process topology be constrained by the exception handling hierarchy, thus allowing both highly structured and graph based processes to benefit from it. Based on this exception handling model, we explain "dead path elimination" (the runtime mechanism by which process termination is ensured) as a form of exception processing. The integration of dead path elimination with the exception handling mechanism provides the semantic base for the integration of the graph and algebraic processes models in BPEL4WS.
The Ring of Gyges: Overridingness and The Unity of Reason *

Does morality override self-interest? Or does self-interest override morality? These questions become important in situations where there is conflict between the overall verdicts of morality and self-interest, situations where morality on balance requires an action that is contrary to our self-interest, or where considerations of self-interest on balance call for an action that is forbidden by morality. In situations of this kind, we want to know what we ought simpliciter to do. If one of these standpoints over-rides the other, then there is a straightforward answer. We ought simpliciter to act on the verdict of the overriding standpoint.For purposes of this essay, I assume that there are possible cases in which the overall verdicts of morality and self-interest conflict. I will call cases of this kind “conflict cases.” The verdict of morality in a conflict case would be a proposition as to what we ought morally to do, or as to what we have the most moral reason to do; the verdict of self-interest would be a proposition as to what we ought to do in our self-interest, or as to what action is best supported by reasons or considerations of self-interest. These propositions are action-guiding or normative in a familiar sense. The conflict between morality and self-interest in conflict cases is there-fore a normative conflict; it is a conflict between the overall verdicts of different normative standpoints. I take it that the question of whether morality overrides self-interest is the question of whether the verdicts of morality are normatively more important than the verdicts of self-interest. In due course, I will explain the idea of normative importance as well as the ideas of a normative proposition and of a reason.
The c-fms proto-oncogene product is related to the receptor for the mononuclear phagocyte growth factor, CSF 1

The feline c-fms proto-oncogene product is a 170 kd glycoprotein with associated tyrosine kinase activity. This glycoprotein was expressed on mature cat macrophages from peritoneal inflammatory exudates and spleen. Similarly, the receptor for the murine colony-stimulating factor, CSF-1, is restricted to cells of the mononuclear phagocytic lineage and is a 165 kd glycoprotein with an associated tyrosine kinase. Rabbit antisera to a recombinant v-fms-coded polypeptide precipitated the feline c-fms product and specifically cross-reacted with a 165 kd glycoprotein from mouse macrophages. This putative product of the murine c-fms gene exhibited an associated tyrosine kinase activity in immune complexes, specifically bound murine CSF-1, and, in the presence of the growth factor, was phosphorylated on tyrosine in membrane preparations. The murine c-fms proto-oncogene product and the CSF-1 receptor are therefore related, and possibly identical, molecules.
Efficient base station connectivity area discovery

Many applications of autonomy are significantly complicated by the need for wireless networking, with challenges including scalability and robustness. Radio accomplishes this in a complex environment, but suffers from rapid signal strength variation and attenuation typically much worse than free space loss. In this paper, we propose and test algorithms to autonomously discover the connectivity area for a base station in an unknown environment using an average of received signal strength (RSS) values and a RSS threshold to delineate the goodness of the channel. We combine region decomposition and RSS sampling to cast the problem as an efficient graph search. The nominal RSS in a sampling region is obtained by averaging local RSS samples to reduce the small-scale fading variation. The RSS gradient is exploited during exploration to develop an efficient approach for discovery of the base station connectivity boundary in an unknown environment. Indoor and outdoor experiments demonstrate the proposed techniques. The results can be used for sensing and collaborative autonomy, building base station coverage maps in unknown environments, and facilitating multi-hop relaying to a base station.
Clinical research during surgery residency: the Chattanooga approach.

Abstract Purpose The nontraditional clinical research rotation at the University of Tennessee College of Medicine-Chattanooga Unit is described and its efficacy evaluated by the number of peer-reviewed publications produced. Methods In 1988, a mandatory year of clinical research was added to the general surgery curriculum. The year is completed in 3 4-month rotations, 1 each during the PGY-2, PGY-3, and PGY-4 years. Curriculum vitae of 31 graduates of the traditional 5-year residency were evaluated for publications produced during residency and 1 year beyond training. Comparison was made to 15 subjects; 8 were 6-year graduates and 7 were PGY-4, PGY-5, or PGY-6 residents having completed the research year. Statistical analysis used the Mann–Whitney U test for nonparametric data as well as an independent t test with significance set at 0.05. Publications were verified by a MEDLINE search. Six-year graduates also completed a questionnaire regarding their research experience. Results Graduates of the 5-year program completed an average of 0.94 publications during residency, whereas 6-year graduates completed an average of 2.67 publications (p Conclusions Our results demonstrate that basic science research is not the only model; academic productivity can be improved with an additional year devoted to clinical research. Advantages to this nontraditional approach include decreased likelihood of decline of clinical skills and knowledge, ability to maintain long-term projects, and a physical and mental break from a demanding clinical residency.
Bioelectrical activity of isolated cortex—I responses induced by interaction of low- and high-frequency electrical stimulation

Abstract Transmission capable of affecting cortical potentials across the boundaries of a neurally isolated cortical slab was investigated. A recording electrode was placed between the stimulating electrodes at one end and the tetanizing electrodes at the other end of an array on the intact cortex of cat. Neither low-frequency stimulation nor high-frequency tetanization evoked cortical responses when applied alone. Both stimuli were then simultaneously applied. When tetanization was terminated, the low-frequency shocks induced surface-negative responses. These responses were also demonstrated within the boundaries of a chronically isolated slab of cortex. They were elicited both when the recording and the tetanizing electrodes were placed inside the isolation, and when the recording electrodes were inside but the tetanizing electrodes were outside. These induced responses sometimes followed the frequency of stimulation, and retained the rhythm even when the low-frequency shocks were shifted to a new frequency.
Imagery Improves Upper Extremity Motor Function in Chronic Stroke Patients: A Pilot Study:

After medical stabilization, stroke patients receive rehabilitation during a period that is considered subacute. The traditional view of neurologic rehabilitation is that it reduces impairment and ...
Gender-Specific Mediational Links Between Parenting Styles, Parental Monitoring, Impulsiveness, Drinking Control, and Alcohol-Related Problems*

Objective:Recently, it has been suggested that traits may dynamically change as conditions change. One possible mechanism that may influence impulsiveness is parental monitoring. Parental monitoring reflects a knowledge regarding one's offspring's whereabouts and social connections. The aim of this investigation was to examine potential gender-specific parental influences to impulsiveness (general behavioral control), control over one's own drinking (specific behavioral control), and alcohol-related problems among individuals in a period of emerging adulthood.Method:Direct and mediational links between parenting styles (permissive, authoritarian, and authoritative), parental monitoring, impulsiveness, drinking control, and alcohol-related problems were investigated. A multiple-group, SEM model with (316 women, 265 men) university students was examined.Results:In general, the overall pattern among male and female respondents was distinct. For daughters, perceptions of a permissive father were indirectly li...
Dietary reversal of experimental hypercholesterolemia improves endothelial dysfunction of epicardial arteries but not of small coronary vessels in pigs.

Abstract Endothelial dysfunction is characterized by impaired vasodilation, increase of oxidative stress and inflammation. The current study was designed to test the hypothesis that reversal of hypercholesterolemic diet alone does not normalize all the parameters of endothelial dysfunction. After 10 weeks on a high-cholesterol diet, female juvenile pigs were randomized to normal diet ( n = 5, “Reversals”) or continued on the same diet ( n = 6, “HC”) for another 6 weeks. A control group of 11 pigs received a normal diet (“C”). Coronary epicardial and arteriolar endothelial function was tested in vitro. NFκB and p47phox expression was analyzed in epicardial arteries and myocardium, respectively. P47phox localization in coronary arteries was demonstrated with immunohistochemistry. Lipid levels normalized in Reversal pigs. Epicardial arteries of Reversals showed a normalized relaxation and NFκB expression compared to HC ( p p
Protection of the hermit crab Pagurus pollicaris say from predators by hydroid-colonized shells

Abstract Only one study has shown that a hydroid-colonized gastropod shell was a deterrent to predation on hermit crabs. In the present study, the hydroid-colonized shell protected the hermit crab Paguruspollicaris Say from the shell-crushing stone crab Menippe mercenaria (Say) and the non-shell-crushing octopus Octopus joubini Robson. The shell-crushing calico crab Hepatus epheliticus (Johansson) was not deterred, however, by a hydroid-colonized shell.
Facebook: Maintaining Ethical Practice in the Cyberspace Age

Current technology provides counseling center clinicians regular and immediate access to the students they work with via social networking. Focusing on Facebook in particular, this article discusses the opportunities and challenges this access creates and specifically explores how utilization of ethical, clinical, and cultural lenses might affect decisions about Facebook use, with particular emphasis on consideration of appropriate ethical principles and standards. The authors encourage counseling center staff members and trainees to consult with one another regarding use of Facebook and offer specific scenarios for engaging in discussions about this topic. The article concludes with guidelines for making decisions related to social networking.
PILOT MANEUVER CHOICE AND WORKLOAD IN FREE FLIGHT

Two experiments examined pilots' maneuver choice and visual workload in a free-flight simulation. In Experiment 1, 12 pilots flew a high-fidelity flight simulator with a cockpit display of traffic information and maneuvered to avoid traffic in a simulated free-flight environment. Pilots' choices reflected a preference to make vertical rather than lateral avoidance maneuvers and to climb rather than descend. Pilots avoided both complex maneuvers and airspeed maneuvers. The data were modeled in terms of how pilots traded off factors related to safety, efficiency, mental effort, and prior habits. In Experiment 2, 10 pilots flew the same maneuvers as the pilots in Experiment 1 but followed ATC instructions rather than using the CDTI. The CDTI in Experiment 1 occupied 25% of the pilots' visual attention. A comparison of scanning with Experiment 2 suggested that the CDTI pulled visual attention away from the outside world, but this attention diversion did not leave pilots vulnerable to missing traffic not annunciated on the CDTI. Actual or potential applications of the results include understanding the safety implications of presenting traffic displays in the cockpit, and the impact of pilot maneuver preferences on airspace procedures.
The ESTU accelerator at Yale

Abstract The MP tandem accelerator at the A.W. Wright Nuclear Structure Laboratory, Yale University has been converted to an ESTU tandem with a design voltage of 20–22 MV. The main features of the new accelerator are described and the progress of the conversion is reported. We present the results of the first phase of the tests and outline the future program.
Paraphrasing and reading comprehension

This study examined the relationship between paraphrasing skills of 400 fourth, fifth, and sixth grade pupils and their proficiency in reading comprehension. It also compared the sensitivity of thr...
F NMR Reveals multiple conformations at the dimer interface of the nonstructural protein 1 effector domain from influenza A virus

Summary Nonstructural protein 1 of influenza A virus (NS1A) is a conserved virulence factor comprised of an N-terminal double-stranded RNA (dsRNA)-binding domain and a multifunctional C-terminal effector domain (ED), each of which can independently form symmetric homodimers. Here we apply 19 F NMR to NS1A from influenza A/Udorn/307/1972 virus (H3N2) labeled with 5-fluorotryptophan, and we demonstrate that the 19 F signal of Trp187 is a sensitive, direct monitor of the ED helix:helix dimer interface. 19 F relaxation dispersion data reveal the presence of conformational dynamics within this functionally important protein:protein interface, whose rate is more than three orders of magnitude faster than the kinetics of ED dimerization. 19 F NMR also affords direct spectroscopic evidence that Trp187, which mediates intermolecular ED:ED interactions required for cooperative dsRNA binding, is solvent exposed in full-length NS1A at concentrations below aggregation. These results have important implications for the diverse roles of this NS1A epitope during influenza virus infection.
Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 Retinal Microangiopathy in the Pig Eye

Objective: Human recombinant insulin-like growth factor-1 (hrIGF-1), a ubiquitous angiogenic growth factor, was injected into the vitreous cavity of pigs to investigate the clinical and histopathologic consequences of supraphysiologic levels of this angiogenic growth factor on the retinal vasculature. Design: Young male pigs were injected with 600 μg hrIGF-1 into the vitreous cavity and were observed with serial examinations by ophthalmoscopy, fundus photography, and fluorescein angiography for varying periods up to 6 months. In a separate set of experiments, a dose-response relation was explored in animals injected with varying doses of IGF-1. Main Outcome Measures: Histopathologic analysis included light and transmission electron microscopy and modified elastase digestion. Quantitative morphometric measurements were made of capillary basement membrane thickness and endothelial cell and pericyte densities of the retinal capillaries. Results: Early clinical features of IGF-1-injected eyes included marked arteriolar tortuosity, vitreitis, and retinal vessel and optic nerve head vascular fluorescein leakage. By 4 weeks, hyperfluorescent dots consistent with microaneurysms appeared and increased in number until 8 weeks postinjection. Clinical findings did not change appreciably after 8 weeks. Elastase digestion showed microaneurysms of the retinal capillaries and no ischemia or pericyte ghosts. Quantitative analysis of the digested specimens showed increased endothelial density by 1 month after injection ( P P Conclusions: A single intravitreous injection of a large dose of hrIGF-1 produces a retinal microangiopathy that has a prolonged time of onset and remains stable from 2 to 6 months after injection. Some aspects of this angiopathy resemble diabetic retinopathy, suggesting growth factor effects in the morphologic vascular changes of diabetes.
Fabry Disease With Resting Outflow Obstruction Masquerading as Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

![Figure][1] [![Graphic][3] ][3][![Graphic][4] ][4] A 67-year-old man with prior coronary artery bypass grafting, rheumatic fever with mitral valve repair, and unexplained stage IV chronic kidney disease was referred for evaluation of obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Efficient, “one‐pot” synthesis of silylene–acetylene and disilylene–acetylene preceramic polymers from trichloroethylene

La polycondensation de dialkyl- ou de diaryldichlorosilanes ou du dichlorotetramethyldisilane avec le dilithioacetylene prepare par reaction du butyllithium avec le trichloroethylene donne les polymeres (SiM 2 -C≡C-) n ou (-SiMe 2 SiMe 2 -C≡C-) n . Certains sont etirables en fibres; leur pyrolyse donne des carbures de silicium
Patient-related barriers to cancer pain management in Taiwan

The reluctance of patients with cancer to report pain and to use analgesics hinders the management of their pain. In the United States, this reluctance is related to the patient's misconceptions regarding addiction and tolerance to analgesics and the desire to be a "good patient" who does not complain. Reports in the literature suggest that patients in Taiwan may have these same concerns and misconceptions. This study was designed to explore (a) the concerns of patients in Taiwan about reporting pain and using analgesics and (b) the relationship between these concerns and the adequacy of analgesics used by the patients. Sixty-three patients with cancer completed the Barriers Questionnaire-Taiwan (BTQ) form, a self-report instrument that measures the extent to which patients have eight specific concerns about reporting pain and using analgesics. The responses indicated that patients who were less educated were more likely to have concerns and that patients in general were most worried about tolerance. Patients who were inadequately medicated, as determined by an index of "adequate pain management" constructed for the study, had significantly higher levels of concerns. Open communication between health professionals and patients and educational programs about pain and about the concerns measured in this study could help overcome these concerns and misconceptions and improve pain management.
Effect of sorbed carbon dioxide on the impact strength of amorphous glassy polymers

Etude de 6 polymeres vitreux: PS, polycarbonate du bisphenol A (ou du tetramethylbisphenol A) polyethersulfone, polyetherimide et polysulfone
Selective arterial medial injury fails to produce intimal hyperplasma in experimental animals

The hypothesis was tested, in rats and rabbits, that selective medial injury may lead to arterial intimal hyperplasia. Lesions were produced by passage of a micro-suture through the arterial wall without penetration to the lumen, or controls in which the suture did penetrate. Vessels were examined histologically at intervals up to 2 weeks after suturing. Only vessels with penetrating sutures developed intimal hyperplasia, suggesting that medial injury alone is insufficient for the production of arteriosclerosis.
Deferoxamine expedites consolidation during mandibular distraction osteogenesis

Abstract Background A limitation of mandibular distraction osteogenesis (DO) is the length of time required for consolidation. This drawback subjects patients to possible pin-site infections, as well as a prolonged return to activities of normal daily living. Developing innovative techniques to abridge consolidation periods could be immensely effective in preventing these problematic morbidities. Deferoxamine (DFO) is an angiogenic activator that triggers the HIF-1α pathway through localized iron depletion. We previously established the effectiveness of DFO in enhancing regenerate vascularity at a full consolidation period (28 days) in a murine mandibular DO model. To investigate whether this augmentation in vascularity would function to accelerate consolidation, we progressively shortened consolidation periods prior to μCT imaging and biomechanical testing (BMT). Materials and methods Three time points (14 d, 21 d and 28 d) were selected and six groups of Sprague–Dawley rats (n = 60) were equally divided into control (C) and experimental (E) groups for each time period. Each group underwent external fixator placement, mandibular osteotomy, and a 5.1 mm distraction. During distraction, the experimental groups were treated with DFO injections into the regenerate gap. After consolidation, mandibles were imaged and tension tested to failure. ANOVA was conducted between groups, and p Results At 14 days of consolidation the experimental group demonstrated significant increases in bone volume fraction (BVF), bone mineral density (BMD) and ultimate load (UL) in comparison to non-treated controls. The benefit of treatment was further substantiated by a striking 100% increase in the number of bony unions at this early time-period (C:4/10 vs. E:8/10). Furthermore, metrics of BVF, BMD, Yield and UL at 14 days with treatment demonstrated comparable metrics to those of the fully consolidated 28 d control group. Conclusion Based on these findings, we contend that augmentation of vascular density through localized DFO injection delivers an efficient means for accelerating bone regeneration without significantly impacting bone quality or strength.
A genetic linkage map of red drum (Sciaenops ocellatus) and comparison of chromosomal syntenies with four other fish species

Abstract A genetic linkage map of anonymous and gene-linked microsatellites was generated for red drum, an economically important sciaenid fish cultured for both restoration enhancement and commercial food-fish production. The consensus map, based on linkage data combined from two full-sib families, consisted of 486 total microsatellites (440 anonymous, 46 gene-linked), and spanned 24 linkage groups corresponding to the 24 (haploid) red drum chromosomes. The linkage map generated was used to identify regions of shared synteny between red drum and four other percomorph species for which genome assemblies are available. Considerable synteny was observed between red drum and all four comparison species, and a synteny-based mapping approach was used to putatively localize an additional 80 genes and monomorphic, gene-linked microsatellites within the red drum genome. The genetic linkage map will be a valuable resource for red drum aquaculture, particularly for candidate-gene approaches to identify and map quantitative trait loci.
Improved workpiece location accuracy through fixture layout optimization

Abstract Inaccuracies in workpiece location lead to errors in position and orientation of a machined feature on the workpiece. The ability to accurately locate a workpiece in a machining fixture is strongly influenced by rigid body displacements of the workpiece caused by elastic deformation of loaded fixture–workpiece contacts. This paper presents a model for improving workpiece location accuracy in fixturing. A discrete elastic contact model is used to represent each fixture–workpiece contact. Reduction in workpiece locating error due to rigid body displacements is achieved through optimal placement of locators and clamps around the workpiece. The layout optimization model is also shown to improve the overall workpiece deflection and reaction force characteristics.
Key topics in supportive care

ABSTRACT Jaw osteonecrosis associated with medications (JOM) is a significant oral complication of antiresorptive drugs (intravenous bisphosphonates and denosumab) used in the treatment of cancer patients with metastatic bone disease and multiple myeloma. This complication also develops in individuals with advanced cancers such as metastatic colorectal cancer, advanced nonsquamous non-small cell lung cancer, metastatic kidney cancer, glioblastoma, GIST, and advanced renal cell carcinoma treated with antiangiogenics (bevacizumab and sunitinib). There is also evidence that the use of these medications in combined protocols can increase the risk of JOM. The management of JOM is difficult and patient's quality of life can be compromised. Literature has suggested that the diagnosis and stabilization of dental disease aiming risk minimization prior to starting antiresorptive or antiangiogenic therapy can prevent or reduce the incidence of JOM. Thus, referring patients for dental exam prior to initiating therapy with these drugs is recommended. Conservative dental therapy was the standard of care for JOM. The clinical progress of invasive dental therapy to eliminate necrotic bone was unfavorable with observed aggravation of the clinical defect and with the development of additional necrosis. Recently, more aggressive surgical protocols have been successful when using wide resection of necrotic bone, primary closure of the extraction site and a combination of topical and systemic antibiotics. The objective of this presentation is to update professionals who treat patients with solid tumors with bone metastasis such as breast, prostate and lung cancer, and bone malignancy like multiple myeloma, on the new definition of JOM, clinical characteristics of the lesion, prevention and patient management. Good communication between oncologists and dental professionals is critical for the success of patient management. We expect to demonstrate that this new oral complication could be used as an example to alert health care professionals working in oncology of the importance of maintaining strict surveillance of possible new complications that can develop with the use of new oncologic treatment, a fast developing field. Disclosure The author has declared no conflicts of interest.
Effect of high dietary strontium levels on bone and egg shell calcium and strontium

The results of feeding high dietary levels of stable strontium to hens are reported. Dietary levels of strontium from 3,000 p.p.m. to 50,000 p.p.m. showed a significant increase in strontium content of the tibia bone and essentially no change in the calcium content. Plasma calcium concentration was shown to decrease with increasing dietary strontium treatment. Egg shell calcium showed a progressive decrease with increasing dietary strontium treatment, whereas the strontium content has a corresponding increase. X-ray diffraction analyses of bones and shells containing large amounts of strontium were unsuccessful in evaluating the from in which strontium was deposited.
The Novel Form in Italian Postmodernity: Genna's Day of Judgment

In Italy, where the reflection about forms of subjectivity has been particularly lively thanks to the legacy of autonomist and post-communist thought, several young writers have taken the challenge of reconstructing the subject of postmodern society through narrative forms. As case in point, I examine the work of Giuseppe Genna (b.1969), and his novels In The Name of Ishmael (2003), Dies Irae (2006) and Italia De Profundis (2008). In these works, the technological, political and cultural exteriorities determining the functioning of contemporary subjectivities are fully integrated and deployed – lexically, stylistically and narratively. However, I argue that the novel's ability to frame the desperation of the present within a reconstruction of past history and future resolution provides an essential mean for maintaining a space for freedom and imagination.
Analysis and Three-Dimensional Modeling of Vanadium Flow Batteries

This study presents 1.) a multi-dimensional model of vanadium Redox Flow Batteries (RFB); 2.) rigorous explanation of porelevel transport resistance, dilute solution assumption, and pumping power; and 3.) analysis of time constants of heat and mass transfer and dimensionless parameter. The model, describing the dynamic system of a RFB, consists of a set of partial differential equations of mass, momentum, species, charges, and energy conservation, in conjunctionwith the electrode's electrochemical reaction kinetics. The governing equations are successfully implemented into three-dimensional numerical simulation of charging, idling, and discharging operations. The model, validated against experimental data, predicts fluid flow, concentration increase/decrease, temperature contours and local reaction rate. The prediction indicates a large variation in local reaction rate across electrodes and the time constants for reactant variation and temperature evolution, which are consistent with theoretical analysis. © 2014 The Electrochemical Society. All rights reserved.
Sortase-Mediated Transpeptidation for Site-Specific Modification of Peptides, Glycopeptides, and Proteins.

Sortases are a family of transpeptidases found in gram-positive bacteria responsible for covalent anchoring of cell surface proteins to bacterial cell walls. It has been discovered that sortase A (SrtA) of Staphylococcus aureus origin is rather promiscuous and can accept various molecules as substrates. As a result, SrtA has been widely used to ligate peptides and proteins with a variety of nucleophiles, and the ligation products are useful for research in chemical biology, proteomics, biomedicine, etc. This review summarizes the recent applications of SrtA with special emphasis on SrtA-catalyzed ligation of carbohydrates with peptides and proteins.
Short-time behaviour of a modified Laplacian coflow of G2-structures

Abstract We modify the Laplacian coflow of co-closed G 2 -structures – d d t ψ = Δ ψ where ψ is the closed dual 4-form of a G 2 -structure φ. The modified flow is now weakly parabolic in the direction of closed forms up to diffeomorphisms. We then prove short time existence and uniqueness of solutions to the modified flow.
Uncoupled Magneto-Acoustic Propagation in a Dipole Field

The wave equation describing the acoustic mode in a plasma magnetized by a dipole field is derived for the case in which the sound speed is much less than the Alfven speed. The fundamental period of the first order solution is shown to be equivalent to the heuristic concept of a sound wave bouncing back and forth along a field line. This approximate solution is valid at low latitudes. The modification of the acoustic wave equation, when the gravity force is introduced, is discussed.