cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Position of single amino acid substitutions in the collagen triple helix determines their effect on structure of collagen fibrils

Collagen II fibrils are a critical structural component of the extracellular matrix of cartilage providing the tissue with its unique biomechanical properties. The self-assembly of collagen molecules into fibrils is a spontaneous process that depends on site-specific binding between specific domains belonging to interacting molecules. These interactions can be altered by mutations in the COL2A1 gene found in patients with a variety of heritable cartilage disorders known as chondrodysplasias. Employing recombinant procollagen II, we studied the effects of R75C or R789C mutations on fibril formation. We determined that both R75C and R789C mutants were incorporated into collagen assemblies. The effects of the R75C and R789C substitutions on fibril formation differed significantly. The R75C substitution located in the thermolabile region of collagen II had no major effect on the fibril formation process or the morphology of fibrils. In contrast, the R789C substitution located in the thermostable region of collagen II caused profound changes in the morphology of collagen assemblies. These results provide a basis for identifying pathways leading from single amino acid substitutions in collagen II to changes in the structure of individual fibrils and in the organization of collagenous matrices.
Effects of Hydrology on Unionids (Unionidae) and Zebra Mussels (Dreissenidae) in a Lake Erie Coastal Wetland

Abstract Infestation by introduced zebra mussels has extirpated native unionids in many Great Lake habitats. Shallow areas in coastal wetlands are intermittently dewatered by seiches and seasonal water level changes, and we examined how water level fluctuations and sediment characteristics affected interactions among unionids and zebra mussels in a Lake Erie coastal marsh. In 2001 we sampled unionid distributions and measured zebra mussel colonization on PVC plates at 1 cm, 18 cm and >35 cm water depths. We found a diverse unionid community (15 species) with many juvenile unionids. Unionid densities (0.01 unionids/m2) were comparable to other coastal wetlands, but are lower than reported in offshore areas before zebra mussels were introduced. Zebra mussels colonized plates at >3000 individuals/m2 in some locations. Although >60% of unionids had byssal threads on their shells, >75% of unionids had no attached zebra mussels. Therefore, zebra mussels are colonizing unionids, but are not surviving. Unionid nu...
THE MICROMORPHOLOGY OF YOUNGER DRYAS-AGED BLACK MATS FROM NEVADA, ARIZONA, TEXAS AND NEW MEXICO

Abstract Black mats are organic-rich sediments and soils that form in wet environments associated with spring discharge. Micromorphological and geochemical analyses of 25 black mats dating to the Younger Dryas Chronozone (12.9–11.7 ka) and early Holocene were conducted to determine their composition and depositional environment. Samples were collected from Arizona, New Mexico, Texas and Nevada. Micromorphological analyses were conducted on thin sections using polarized and blue fluorescent light. These analyses determined that black mats contain humic acids, fine (5–20 μm) plant fragments, diatoms, phytoliths, and gastropods. The dominant type of organic matter in black mats is derived from herbaceous plants, contradicting previous studies that supported algal or charcoal sources. Differences in the micromorphological characteristics of the samples revealed that black mats formed as three different types, organic horizons, moist soils and, ponded sediments, depending on their topographic position in relation to the water table. The microscopic evidence found in black mats supports the presence of widespread wet environments in Nevada and Arizona during the Younger Dryas Chronozone, clearly indicating a sustained period of greater effective moisture, optimal for spring discharge and black mat formation.
Personality disorders in obsessive compulsive disorder.

Standardized structured interview personality scales are now available that provide better reliability than clinician interview, but are still imperfect. These scales diagnose DSM III-R personality disorders, which are more illness-oriented than Freudian notions. Use of these scales has found that the majority of patients with OCD have at least one Axis II personality disorder, with most falling in cluster C. Obsessive compulsive personality disorder, as described in DSM-III-R, is, in most samples studied, present in the minority of patients with OCD, and is often less common than other personality disorders such as mixed, dependent, avoidant, and histrionic. The prevalence of this personality disorder as modified in DSM-III-R (making it easier for a patient to qualify for this personality disorder diagnosis) appears to be higher, although still present in a minority of patients with OCD. Obsessive compulsive personality disorder (along with the other cluster B and C personality disorders) has not been reported to have a consistent relation to treatment outcome. There is evidence that in some cases, obsessive compulsive personality disorder may be secondary to OCD. Swedo et al hypothesized that some children may develop compulsive personality traits as an adaptive mechanism to deal with OCD. This hypothesis is in accord with our finding that OCD often predates compulsive personality disorder and that mixed personality disorder may develop over time, possibly secondary to OCD. We found in our sample of 96 adult patients with OCD that the presence of mixed personality disorder was more likely with longer duration of OCD, suggesting that patients who do not have premorbid personality disorders may develop significant personality traits (especially avoidant, compulsive, and dependent), which may be related to behavioral and life-style changes that are secondary to OCD. This hypothesis is strengthened by our finding that patients with one of these personality disorders at baseline tended to no longer meet criteria for them following successful treatment of their OCD. It now appears that schizotypal personality disorder, which is thought to be related genetically to schizophrenia (e.g., in three male identical twin pairs concordant for OCD but discordant for schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder, the nonpsychotic co-twins all had schizotypal personality disorder), is the only consistent personality disorder predictor of poorer outcome in OCD. These traits may help explain other proposed poor predictors of treatment outcome such as overvalued beliefs, poor compliance, and chaotic family situations.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Contemporary Challenges in Takeovers: Avoiding Conflicts, Preserving Confidences and Taming the Commercial Imperative

This article discusses contemporary legal, commercial, ethical and other issues that arise in the context of corporate takeover transactions. Due to their complexity and the numerous parties - including deal advisers - they involve, the loyalties of company directors and advisers are frequently tangled, creating legion opportunities for conflicted interests and breached confidences. At the same time, the high status of advising on takeovers and the financial lure they provide produce powerful incentives that inevitably inform the application of legal principles to these issues. The article adopts a hypothetical case study approach to focus on the challenges confronting these parties and offers practical guidance for how they might prudently respond. It formed the basis of a panel discussion involving senior practitioners and scholars in Australia in 2004.
CdS Thin Film Transistor for Inverter and Operational Amplifier Circuit Applications

Organic and inorganic thin film transistors (TFTs) are fabricated, simulated, and tested for circuit applications. The devices are based on polycrystalline cadmium sulfide (CdS) and pentacene thin films. Both devices are simulated and analyzed using two-dimensional finite element simulation methodology. For CdS, grain boundary and uniform trap distribution approaches are implemented. It is assumed that traps due to grain boundaries are uniformly distributed throughout the film. For pentacene a Poole-Frenkel mobility model is employed. After matching device simulation with experimental data, the SPICE model parameters are extracted for circuit simulation. The devices are tested for both analog and digital circuits. operational amplifier (OPAMP) and inverter circuits are tested. Two OPAMP topologies are compared and the results are discussed. One of the topologies is based on all n-type transistors using CdS TFT and the other topology is the two-stage Miller compensated CMOS design based on CdS and pentacene TFTs. The operational amplifiers have an open-loop voltage gain of 25.9dB and 29.7dB respectively. The performance of the CMOS design is found to be limited by performance of pentacene transistor. Display Omitted
Hypertension in Women: Evaluation and Management.

Abstract Hypertension is the most commonly encountered chronic medical condition in primary care and one of the most significant modifiable cardiovascular risk factors for women and men. Timely diagnosis and evidence-based management offer an important opportunity to reduce the risk of hypertension-related morbidity and mortality, including cardiovascular events, end-stage renal disease, and heart failure. Clinical trials have shown significant improvements in patient-oriented outcomes when hypertension is well-controlled, yet many hypertensive patients remain undiagnosed, uncontrolled, or managed with inappropriate pharmacotherapy. This article discusses the initial diagnosis, evaluation, and management of hypertension in nonpregnant women, with topics for obstetrician-gynecologists and women's health providers.
Snag dynamics and cavity excavation after bark beetle outbreaks in southwestern ponderosa pine forests

In the United States, ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa) forests provide habitat for more cavity-nesting wildlife than any other forest type. In 2002-2005, stresses from drought, changes in the fire regime, and increases in forest density contributed to the largest bark beetle (Ips or Dendroctonus spp.) epidemic ever recorded in Arizona. We identified characteristics that predict snag longevity and use by cavity nesters of bark beetle-killed ponderosa pine. We mapped snags and monitored use by wildlife in sites with bark beetle outbreaks in northern Arizona. We measured snag characteristics 3-9 years after outbreaks and used multimodel inference to predict whether a snag was standing or fallen or contained excavated cavities or not. We used spatial statistical tests to determine snag patterns. Although >99% of beetle-killed snags were standing 3 years after outbreaks, <20% remained standing after 7 years. Snags were clumped when initially measured and in subsequent remeasurements. Snags that remained standing had lower surrounding basal area, larger dbh, and more limbs, were more decayed, and were on west-facing lower slopes. Snags with cavities were larger in diameter, had broken tops before falling, and were in open (mean live tree basal area = 17 m(2)/ha) forest. Our data are indicative of snag dynamics likely to occur in ponderosa pine forests of the southwestern United States, given the occurrence of recent droughts and bark beetle outbreaks.
Characterization of Copper Palladium Oxide Solid Solutions by X-ray Diffraction, X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy, and Auger Electron Spectroscopy

Copper palladium oxide, CuxPd1–xO, forms a homogeneous solid solution over the wide range of 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.725 in which compositional variation can be correlated with structural and chemical environmental changes. After a small lag at low Cu2+ concentrations, where the lattice cell parameters are pinned to that of the pure PdO structure, CuxPd1–xO lattice parameters follow Vegard’s law in which the cell volume decreases linearly with x, indicating a homogeneous solution in which Cu2+ randomly replaces the larger Pd2+ cation. The crystal structure also undergoes an increase in the c/a cell ratio, which relaxes the tetragonal distortion around the metal cation and shifts the metal–oxygen distance toward that of pure CuO (tenorite). X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) shows an unusual shift in cation binding energies in which both Pd 3d and Cu 2p linearly increase with increased Cu2+ concentration, a result of the increased Madelung energy and relaxation effects which occur during the photoemission process. X...
Immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4)-associated pouchitis - Part of IgG4 related disease? A case series and review of the literature.

Abstract Background and aims IgG4-mediated pouchitis was first described in 2011. The aetiology and pathogenesis of IgG4-associated pouchitis is unknown. Over the last four years, less than seventy cases of IgG-associated pouchitis have been reported from a pouchitis clinic in Cleveland. Methods We report the first two cases of IgG4-associated pouchitis from our inflammatory bowel disease clinic and outside of Cleveland. Conclusion This highlights the fact that this entity could be more common than we think. It is important for general gastroenterologists to think about IgG4-mediated disease if the patient has refractory pouchitis, so early diagnosis and referral can be made. This would avoid the cost of expensive therapy and minimize antibiotic use which is what happened in our cases prior to this diagnosis being made.
What Lies Beneath? Aquifer Heterogeneity and the Economics of Groundwater Management

AbstractThis paper examines the distribution of economic benefits from groundwater management as a consequence of underlying aquifer characteristics. The portions of an aquifer where water moves rapidly, those with high hydraulic conductivity, as well as those that receive less yearly recharge, face a more costly common-pool problem and therefore receive higher benefits from management. The introduction of management districts in Kansas is used to test the effect of underlying aquifer characteristics on changes in agricultural land value, farm size, and crop choice. A landowner in a county with hydraulic conductivity one standard deviation higher sees a relative land value increase of 5%–8% when management is implemented. Counties with lower recharge also see relative increases in land value. Changes in farm size and percentage of cropland in corn are also consistent with the proposition that the effect of management is unequal and depends on properties of the physical system.
Manipulating stance and involvement using collaborative tasks: an exploratory comparison.

The ATAROS project aims to identify acoustic signals of stance-taking in order to inform the development of automatic stance recognition in natural speech. Due to the typically low frequency of stance-taking in existing corpora that have been used to investigate related phenomena such as subjectivity, we are creating an audio corpus of unscripted conversations between dyads as they complete collaborative tasks designed to elicit a high density of stance-taking at increasing levels of involvement. To validate our experimental design and provide a preliminary assessment of the corpus, we examine a fully transcribed and time-aligned portion to compare the speaking styles in two tasks, one expected to elicit low involvement and weak stances, the other high involvement and strong stances. We find that although overall measures such as task duration and total word count do not indicate consistent differences across tasks, speakers do display significant differences in speaking style. Factors such as increases in speaking rate, turn length, and disfluencies from weakto strong-stance tasks are consistent with increased involvement by the participants and provide evidence in support of the experimental design.
Emergency Care of the Burned Patient

How the history and physical examination of a patient with a thermal injury can aid the physician and staff in instituting measures that will prevent the development of urgent and emergent situations.
Nutrition and pregnancy.

There is a crying need for a national maternity care program, if pregnant women are to be assured their rights to sufficient, nutritious food. But first, the scope and dimensions of the problem must be surveyed. Resulting information will then make it possible to provide first class nutritional service to pregnant women within the changing national health program.
Reducing surface temperature gradients by tailoring convective film coefficients

There are two primary design requirements when considering thermal management of microelectronic packages. The first is to maintain the electrical components below a given threshold temperature, primarily for reliability considerations. The second is to maintain the electrical components within a given temperature band (gradient), primarily for performance and structural considerations. Specifically, for military phased-array radar microelectronics, it is essential that the transmit/receive function (TRF) devices operate at similar temperatures (∼10°C) to assure similar amplitude and phase operation. The work described herein focuses on the temperature gradient requirement for liquid colled (forced convection) systems, where the electrical waste heat is removed via the sensible heat of a cooling fluid flowing through a coldplate channel. A design methodology is outlined for a serial-flow coldplate that minimizes the surface temperature gradient by tailoring the convective impedance within the flow channel. The methodology is used to design a coldplate that employees a liquid coolant common to military electronic systems (PAO - Polyalphaolefin). The coldplate is analyzed using the finite-element method to demonstrate the validity of the design procedure, and an experimental investigation verifies both the design procedure and the finite-element results.
The Major Light-Harvesting Chlorophyll a/b Protein (LHC IIb): The Smallest Subunit is a Novel Cab Gene Product

Conversion of light into chemical energy in oxygenic photosynthesis is essentially driven by two pigmented multiprotein photosystem complexes acting in series. Each photosystem consists of a core complex involved in primary charge separation and a light-harvesting antenna complex (LHC), which increases the light capturing ability of the photosystem.
Compact Radio Sources

This chapter discusses gross physical conditions within a compact source. It also discusses the problem of flux variations of compact sources in terms of a nonrelativistically moving plasmon containing relativistic particles and magnetic fields, which is ejected into the interstellar medium of the galactic nucleus and is expanding as a result of its high internal energy density; being decelerated by the ram pressure of the external medium the plasmon develops Rayleigh–Taylor and Kelvin–Helmholtz instabilities that lead to the generation of turbulence within the plasmon. The magnetic field is then amplified as a result of the developing turbulence, and the particles are accelerated by the second-order Fermi mechanism, with the turbulent vortices acting as randomly moving scattering centers and by the betatron mechanism during the time of magnetic field amplification. The variations of flux result from the effects of accelerations and adiabatic and synchrotron losses of electron energy.
The Poetics of Stagecraft and Dialogue in Chekhov’s The Cherry Orchard

The first act is extremely important since it creates a structural, schematic, and thematic foundation for the entire play. Throughout the first act, we discover the characters are delineated through recurrent themes in dialogue and peculiarities of individual speech and gesture. Unlike reading fiction, readers are limited to what can happen on stage through what is said (directly or indirectly, that is through direct discourse or indirect discourse), what is acted, and, of course, what is staged. Through the dialogue, Chekhov clearly presents a play with a social theme though under the guise of a rather pedestrian situation. Dialogue sketches character and exchanges themes. In brief, the dialogue engages in a way that not only advances character, but propels the plot forward.
Exploring Rubric-Related Multidimensionality in Polytomously Scored Test Items

Test items scored as polytomous have the potential to display multidimensionality across rating scale score categories. This article uses a multidimensional nominal response model (MNRM) to examine the possibility that the proficiency dimension/dimensional composite best measured by a polytomously scored item may vary by score category, an issue not generally considered in multidimensional item response theory (MIRT). Some practical considerations in exploring rubric-related multidimensionality, including potential consequences of not attending to it, are illustrated through simulation examples. A real data application is applied in the study of item format effects using the 2007 administration of Trends in Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) among eighth graders in the United States.
Updated recommendations on the use of hydroxychloroquine in dermatologic practice.

Hydroxychloroquine has unique immunomodulatory properties and an attractive adverse effect profile. Over the past 10 years, research has led to significant updates in clinical recommendations concerning the optimal use of hydroxychloroquine and monitoring of patients taking it. We discuss updated recommendations concerning hydroxychloroquine daily dosing, retinopathy screening, serologic monitoring, use in smokers, use in pregnant women, and adverse effect risk and monitoring. This review can hopefully serve as an aid to dermatologists and help ensure they continue using hydroxychloroquine safely and effectively.
Breakage Susceptibility of Bitter Vetch (Viciaervilia L.) Seeds Related to Moisture content and Impact energy

The objective of this study isto evaluate and model the breakage susceptibility of bitter vetch seeds at different moisture contents under impact loading. The experiments were conducted at moisture contents of 7.6 to 25% (on a wet-weight basis) and impact energies of 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3 Jusing an impact damage assessment device. The results showed that impact energy, seed moisture content, and the interaction effect of the two factors significantly affected the breakage percentage of bitter vetch seeds (p<0.01). Increasing the impact energy from 0.1 to 0.3 J caused a significant increase in the mean values of seeds breakage as a polynomial from 51.8 to 89.2%. It was found that the relation between bitter vetch seeds moisture content and seed breakage was non-linear, and the extent of seed breakage decreased significantly as a polynomial from 92.5 to 57.2% with the increase in seed moisture content from 7.6 to 17.5%. Further increase in seed moisture from 17.5 to 25%; however, caused an increase in the percentage of seeds breakage. Mathematical relationships consist of seed moisture content and impact energy were developed for accurate description of the breakage percentage of vetch seeds under impact loading.
Excitons in Magnetic Fields

Abstract An applied magnetic field greatly modifies the states and properties of excitons, or bound electron-hole pairs, in photoexcited semiconductors. Depending on the strength of the magnetic field, as well as the density and temperature of the excitons, a variety of physical phenomena occur, providing a rich and controllable environment for not only determining characteristic exciton parameters but also probing complex many-body interactions spectroscopically. In this paper, we review this important sub-field of semiconductor optics. After summarizing the basic theory of excitons in magnetic fields, with a special emphasis on the importance of dimensionality, we describe experimental studies of interband and intraband magneto-optical processes in various semiconductors, including bulk germanium and silicon, III-V semiconductor quantum wells, wires and dots, monolayer transition metal dichalcogenides, and single-wall carbon nanotubes. In addition to linear and continuous-wave optical absorption and photoluminescence spectroscopy studies, we consider nonlinear and ultrafast spectroscopy experiments performed at high magnetic fields. Finally, we discuss recent experiments revealing the extreme stability of two-dimensional excitons against ionization and the cooperative radiative recombination, or superfluorescence, of electron-hole pairs in high magnetic fields.
Weak Creditor Rights and Insider Opportunism: Evidence from an Emerging Market

We document insider opportunism in an insolvency regime that is characterized by weak creditor rights and uses an accounting rule to determine bankruptcy eligibility. Using a unique dataset of bankrupt firms from India, we show insiders manage earnings downward before filing for bankruptcy via inventory and trade receivable accruals. A battery of robustness tests confirm accrual behavior is not merely driven by poor performance. Downward earnings management before bankruptcy filing is associated with more payment transactions to insiders post-bankruptcy. Low pre-bankruptcy accruals are associated with poor post-filing performance as well as greater loss of market value on bankruptcy announcement. Our results are consistent with insiders gaming the accounting-based entry rule to obtain bankruptcy protection and extracting private benefits from bankrupt firms. Our study highlights the importance of strong creditor rights for generating positive economic outcomes (La Porta et al. (1997)).
Electromagnetic Regional Heating

Of all the many kinds and sizes of tumors, the deep lying tumor offers the greatest challenge in hyperthermia. It is not only more difficult to get the energy to the deep lying tumors than to superficial tumors, but it is also more difficult to measure temperatures in the internal tumors, which is significant because controlling the temperature requires measuring the temperature.
Tau and neurodegenerative disease: genetics and pathogenetic mechanisms

Neurodegenerative disease is often accompanied by abnormal tau aggregates in the form of neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) and other intracellular structures. Diseases where tau pathology is found include Alzheimer’s disease (AD) [1], Down syndrome, frontotemporal dementia with parkinsonism-chromosome 17 type (FTDP-17), progressive supra-nuclear palsy (PSP) [2], Gerstmann-Straussler Scheinker disease [3], Pick’s disease[4], amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/parkinsonism dementia complex of Guam [5], Niemann-Pick type-C disease [6] and to a lesser degree in normal aging. In some disorders such as AD, Down syndrome and some forms of FTDP-17, tau aggregates are exclusively found in neuronal cell bodies as NFTs and as “ghost” tangles, the presumed remains of a dead neuron. In other disorders, such as in some forms of FTDP-17, tau aggregates are also in glial cells. The abnormal tau in these aggregates is highly phosphorylated.
Theories of Working Memory: Differences in Definition, Degree of Modularity, Role of Attention, and Purpose

Purpose The purpose of this article is to review and discuss theories of working memory with special attention to their relevance to language processing. Method We begin with an overview of the con...
Places to Go: YouTube

According to the Digital Television Transition and Public Safety Act of 2005, broadcasters across the United States must complete their switch from analog to digital video in 2009, rendering millions of television sets obsolete. Viewers will be required to purchase converter boxes in order to view the new high-definition (HD) signals. In addition to these behind-the-scenes changes to transmission standards, consumers will notice major differences on their television screens. The aspect ratio of the televised image will change from 4:3, the shape of a normal television, to 16:9, which looks more like a movie screen. Moreover, the resolution will improve dramatically from what was effectively 512 x 400 pixels (Brain 2001) to 1920 x 1080 pixels (Beaver Installations 2007). This means that even if you purchase a converter for your old television, the television still won't display the new HD signals very well.
Three-Year Morbidity and Mortality Rates After Nontraumatic Transmetatarsal Amputation

Abstract Patients requiring a nontraumatic transmetatarsal amputation (TMA) typically have multiple comorbidities that place them at high risk of postoperative complications and additional surgery. The present study identified the demographic, clinical, and surgical risk factors that predict complications after a nontraumatic TMA, including the incidence of 3-year mortality, proximal limb amputation, and lack of healing. The electronic medical records of patients who had undergone TMA within a Kaiser Permanente Northern California facility from March 2007 to January 2012 (n = 375) were reviewed. We used bivariate and multivariate analyses to examine the variations in the rates of TMA complications according to sex, age, race, and comorbid conditions, including nonpalpable pedal pulses, end-stage renal disease, coronary artery disease, hypertension, smoking status, and preoperative albumin 2 times the odds of not healing after the TMA (aOR 2.45; 95% CI 1.40 to 4.31). The patients with end-stage renal disease had 3 times the odds of dying within 3 years (aOR 3.10; 95% CI 1.69 to 5.70). The present findings can help us identify patients with an increased risk of postoperative complications after nontraumatic TMA, including patients with nonpalpable pedal pulses or end-stage renal disease, and suggest the vulnerability of this patient population.
Steven Carpenter at Cake Financial

After investing $9 million of venture capital, Cake Financial had failed to reach critical mass. In early 2010 Cake's assets were sold and the company was dissolved. Founded in 2006, the San Francisco-based Internet company allowed users to monitor their investments and communicate with each other about their portfolio strategies. The case recounts key decisions made by founder and CEO Steve Carpenter, including several "pivots" -- shifts in business model, position, and strategy -- made by Cake's team in response to market feedback.Learning Objective: Analyze factors that caused a start-up to fall short of its founder's expectations and explore alternative strategies and management approaches that might have led to a better outcome.
On Kleene Degrees of Analytic Sets

We show that the following assertion is true in a wide class of models of Zermelo-Fraenkel set theory. There exist 2N0 analytic subsets of the Cantor space having pairwise incomparable Kleene degrees. It follows by a lemma of Kuratowski that no two of these sets are Borel isomorphic.
A Novel Hierarchical Distributed Voltage Control Method for Active Distribution Network

This paper proposes a new hierarchical distributed voltage control method for distributed generations (DGs), which provides voltage support coordinating with an under-load tap changer (ULTC) in active distribution networks. Based on bi-layer control architecture, this method utilizes the DG reactive power output adjustment to divide the network into several distributed autonomous zones (DAZs) and realize distributed autonomous voltage control. The quantity and control regions of DAZs change in response to variations of grid conditions. When DAZs voltage cannot be self-sustaining, the coordinated voltage control between ULTC and other self-sustaining DAZs in active distribution is achieved by the novel control method. Case studies are conducted based on IEEE 33-bus distribution system, and the effectiveness and validation of the proposed method are analyzed.
Meta-modeling game for deriving theory-consistent, microstructure-based traction–separation laws via deep reinforcement learning

Abstract This paper presents a new meta-modeling framework that employs deep reinforcement learning (DRL) to generate mechanical constitutive models for interfaces. The constitutive models are conceptualized as information flow in directed graphs. The process of writing constitutive models is simplified as a sequence of forming graph edges with the goal of maximizing the model score (a function of accuracy, robustness and forward prediction quality). Thus meta-modeling can be formulated as a Markov decision process with well-defined states, actions, rules, objective functions and rewards. By using neural networks to estimate policies and state values, the computer agent is able to efficiently self-improve the constitutive model it generated through self-playing, in the same way AlphaGo Zero (the algorithm that outplayed the world champion in the game of Go) improves its gameplay. Our numerical examples show that this automated meta-modeling framework does not only produces models which outperform existing cohesive models on benchmark traction–separation data, but is also capable of detecting hidden mechanisms among micro-structural features and incorporating them in constitutive models to improve the forward prediction accuracy, both of which are difficult tasks to do manually.
Dr. Valerie Wheeler (1940–2017)

Dr. Valerie Wheeler, Professor Emerita of Anthropology at California State University – Sacramento, died 16 January 2017 after succumbing to leukemia. After a childhood spent on farms in Ohio and M...
Minimally Supervised Segmentation and Meshing of 3D Intervertebral Discs of the Lumbar Spine for Discectomy Simulation

A framework for 3D segmentation of healthy and herniated intervertebral discs from T2-weighted MRI was developed that exploits weak shape priors encoded in simplex mesh active surface models. An ellipsoidal simplex template mesh was initialized within the disc image boundary through affine landmark-based registration, and was allowed to deform according to image gradient forces. Coarse-to-fine multi-resolution approach was adopted in conjunction with decreasing shape memory forces to accurately capture the disc boundary. User intervention is allowed to turn off the shape feature and guide model deformation when internal shape memory influence hinders detection of pathology. For testing, 16 healthy discs were automatically segmented, and 5 pathological discs were segmented with minimal supervision. A resulting surface mesh was utilized for disc compression simulation under gravitational and weight loads and Meshless-Mechanics (MM)-based cutting using Simulation Open Framework Architecture (SOFA). The surface-mesh based segmentation method is part of a processing pipeline for anatomical modeling to support interactive surgery simulation. Segmentation results were validated against expert guided segmentation and demonstrate mean absolute shape distance error of less than 1 mm.
Nature-Inspired Optimization of Aperiodic Metasurfaces for Antenna Beam-shaping

Partially Reflective Surfaces (PRS) are highly reflective metasurfaces that are well-suited in the design of antennas for beamforming and high gain wireless applications, particularly in the mm-wave regime. Periodic PRS, made of uniformly spaced elements, however, limits the design of the antenna with regard to the trade-off between gain, sidelobe level, or achieving a prescribed arbitrary pattern. Aperiodic PRS, made of non-uniformly spaced inclusions provide more degrees of freedom in antenna synthesis and design. In this work we investigate optimal design of aperiodic PRS for various antenna functionality using several nature inspired global optimization techniques. Numerical examples and experimental verification of a prototype for achieving a shaped beam pattern is given.
Suplementação oral de magnésio na prevenção de cãibras musculares: revisão baseada na evidência

Objetivo Rever a evidencia sobre a eficacia da suplementacao oral de magnesio na prevencao de caibras musculares sem patologia evidente associada, em individuos adultos. Fontes de dados National Guideline Clearinghouse, Canadian Medical Association Practice Guidelines Infobase, Guidelines Finder, The Cochrane Library, DARE, Bandolier, Evidence Based Medicine Online e PubMed. Metodos Pesquisa realizada no dia 4 de julho de 2018 com os termos MeSH “Muscle Cramp”, “Magnesium” e “Magnesium Compounds” de meta-analises, revisoes sistematicas (RS), ensaios clinicos aleatorizados e controlados (ECAC), estudos de coorte e caso-controlo e normas de orientacao clinica publicados desde 1 de janeiro de 2008 nas linguas portuguesa, inglesa e espanhola. Para atribuir niveis de evidencia (NE) e forcas de recomendacao foi utilizada a Strength of Recommendation ( SOR ) Taxonomy da American Academy of Family Physicians . Resultados Dos 47 artigos encontrados, seis cumpriram os criterios de inclusao: uma meta-analise (NE 2), quatro RS (NE 2) e um ECAC (NE 2). Nao foram identificados estudos relativos a caibras associadas ao exercicio. Os estudos sao consensuais na aparente ausencia de eficacia do magnesio na prevencao de caibras idiopaticas. Quanto as caibras associadas a gravidez, a evidencia e inconsistente. Contudo, o uso de amostras pequenas, periodos de follow-up curtos e a heterogeneidade das metodologias (populacao, tipo de suplemento, posologia, outcomes ) comprometem a extrapolacao e reduzem a forca das conclusoes obtidas. Conclusao Perante a evidencia encontrada, a suplementacao oral de magnesio na populacao geral parece nao ser eficaz na prevencao de caibras idiopaticas ( SOR B), nao havendo evidencia que suporte a sua prescricao por rotina na pratica clinica. Nas caibras associadas a gravidez a evidencia da suplementacao oral de magnesio nao e clara ( SOR B). Para obter conclusoes mais robustas sao necessarios ECAC de melhor qualidade e com metodologias mais homogeneas.
Reach Out Emergency Department: Partnering With an Economically Disadvantaged Community in the Development of a Text-Messaging Intervention to Address High Blood Pressure:

Background. Hypertension affects nearly 30% of the U.S. adult population. Due to the ubiquitous nature of mobile phone usage, text messaging offers a promising platform for interventions to assist in the management of chronic diseases including hypertension, including among populations that are historically underserved. We present the intervention development of Reach Out, a health behavior theory-based, mobile health intervention to reduce blood pressure among hypertensive patients evaluated in a safety net emergency department primarily caring for African Americans. Aims. To describe the process of designing and refining text messages currently being implemented in the Reach Out randomized controlled trial. Method. We used a five-step framework to develop the text messages used in Reach Out. These steps included literature review and community formative research, conception of a community-centered behavioral theoretical framework, draft of evidence-based text messages, community review, and revision based on community feedback and finalization. Results. The Reach Out development process drew from pertinent evidence that, combined with community feedback, guided the development of a community-centered health behavior theory framework that led to development of text messages. A total of 333 generic and segmented messages were created. Messages address dietary choices, physical activity, hypertension medication adherence, and blood pressure monitoring. Discussion. Our five-step framework is intended to inform future text-messaging-based health promotion efforts to address health issues in vulnerable populations. Conclusion. Text message-based health promotion programs should be developed in partnership with the local community to ensure acceptability and relevance.
Childhood maltreatment type and severity predict depersonalization and derealization in treatment-seeking women with posttraumatic stress disorder.

Abstract The dissociative subtype of posttraumatic stress disorder (D-PTSD) is estimated to occur in approximately 14% of those with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and is characterized by clinically significant dissociative symptoms in addition to typical PTSD symptoms. Prior research has found childhood maltreatment contributes to dissociation and D-PTSD susceptibility, but more nuanced questions about the nature of childhood maltreatment remain unexplored. We investigated how childhood maltreatment type and severity are associated with the dissociative symptoms of D-PTSD among women with PTSD (N = 106) receiving psychiatric care at a program specializing in trauma-related disorders. Participants completed self-report surveys of psychiatric symptoms and prior trauma exposure including the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5, the Dissociative Subtype of PTSD Scale, and the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire. We used multivariate linear regression to model the association of childhood maltreatment types and dissociation. In our final model childhood emotional abuse and physical abuse significantly predicted the dissociative symptoms of D-PTSD. This suggests childhood maltreatment type and severity, in particular of emotional and physical abuse, are associated with the dissociative symptoms of D-PTSD. This work points toward potential etiological contributions to D-PTSD.
Functionalized biopolymer-based drug delivery systems: current status and future perspectives

Abstract Biopolymers from various origins have been investigated for biomedical applications due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, nontoxicity, low cost, and versatility. The development of numerous functionalized biopolymer-based systems with enhanced physicochemical, mechanical, and biological properties further expanded their drug-delivery potential. However, the information related to functionalization techniques, their characterization, and applications of tailor-made biopolymer-based systems is scattered. This chapter summarizes the various topics reviewed by a diverse pool of eminent researchers on the recent development in tailor-made biopolymers designed for drug delivery applications, emphasizing their current status and future perspectives.
DNA: Natural Single‐stranded

Single-stranded circular or linear viral genomes have been used as model systems to investigate the mechanisms of DNA replication and gene expression and for the development of highly versatile cloning vectors. Flexible single-stranded DNA can form hairpin/secondary structures by base pairing between regions of intramolecular sequence complementarity. Such structures are readily detected and appear to play important roles in virus-associated functions in vivo. Keywords: single-stranded DNA; phages; replicative form; secondary structure; overlapping genes
Development of structure and function in the mammalian yolk sac: II. Vitamin B12 uptake by rabbit yolk sacs

Abstract When rabbit yolk sacs were incubated in vitro with Co57B12, there was a greater accumulation of the vitamin than that observed with fetal ileum of a similar age. Intrinsic factor, with a species specificity similar to that observed in fetal and adult intestine, stimulated B12 uptake severalfold. The uptake of B12, both in the presence and absence of IF, was depressed when DNP or iodoacetate was added to the incubation medium. The addition of 10 mM glucose overcame the DNP inhibition but did not reverse the iodoacetate effect. Following the parenteral administration of Co57B12 to pregnant rabbits, the label appeared in the fetal organs and extrafetal membranes. The accumulation in the rabbit yolk sacs was particularly striking after 24–48 hours. Unilateral intrauterine injection of B12 led to more of the label appearing in the fetal organs of the injected horn than in the noninjected control horn. Ligation of the vitelline vessels did not appear to effect the transfer of parenterally administered Co57B12 to the fetal organs. The contribution of the chorioallantoic placenta and the yolk sac placenta of the rabbit in the transfer of B12 from mother to fetus is discussed. The developmental morphology of the visceral yolk sac of the rabbit was compared with that of the rat. The absorptive cells of the visceral endoderm possess surface specializations related to the uptake of macromolecules.
Mechanism of Action of Guinea Pig Liver Transglutaminase IV. THE TRIMETHYLACYL ENZYME

Abstract Evidence is presented that purified guinea pig liver transglutaminase catalyzes the hydrolysis of p-nitrophenyl trimethylacetate. As in the case of the other transglutaminase-catalyzed reactions, calcium ion is required for this esterolysis. This reaction involves the formation of a trimethylacetyl enzyme complex which has been shown by two procedures, burst in p-nitrophenol liberation and incorporation of 14C-trimethylacetyl, to have one trimethylacetyl group per molecule of protein. A trimethylacetyl enzyme complex containing 0.9 eq of trimethylacetyl has been isolated. Incorporation of trimethylacetyl is reflected in a concomitant loss in activity toward p-nitrophenyl acetate and for hydroxylamine incorporation into carbobenzoxy-l-glutaminylglycine. Studies on the inhibition of transglutaminase activity by p-nitrophenyl trimethylacetate and formation of 14C-trimethylacetyl enzyme, both as a function of calcium ion concentration, indicate that the same divalent cation-enzyme complexes are involved in p-nitrophenyl acetate hydrolysis and in p-nitrophenyl trimethylacetate hydrolysis. Thus the apparent dissociation constants for the calcium-transglutaminase complex, as determined by inhibition and by trimethylacetyl enzyme formation at pH 7.0, are 0.37 ± 0.2 x 10-3 m and 0.54 ± 0.2 x 10-3 m, respectively. These values are comparable to the reported activator constant of calcium, 0.4 ± 0.2 x 10-3 m at pH 7.0, determined from the kinetics of p-nitrophenyl acetate hydrolysis. A single radioactive peptide has been separated from a proteolytic digest of 14C-trimethylacetyl transglutaminase. Studies on the isolated peptide indicate that the trimethylacetyl group is bound in thioester linkage to a cysteine —SH group and to the same —SH group in the enzyme with which iodoacetamide reacts to form the inactive carbamidomethyl enzyme. These results are presented in support of a previously suggested cation-controlled mechanism of enzyme action involving the intermediate formation of an acyl enzyme through thioester linkage.
Biosynthesis of Cartilage Collagen USE OF PULSE LABELING TO ORDER THE CYANOGEN BROMIDE PEPTIDES IN THE α1(II) CHAIN

Abstract Sternal cartilages of 13- and 14-day-old chick embryos were cultured in a chemically defined medium containing [3H]glycine for labeling and β-aminopropionitrile to inhibit cross-linking of newly synthesized collagen. Native collagen extracted from cultured sternal cartilages yields, on denaturation, only a single type of α chain which was unequivocally identified as α1(II) by comparing the chromatographic properties of CNBr peptides derived from labeled chains with those from authentic α1(II). Examination of the CNBr peptides derived from α1(II) synthesized during relatively short pulse-labeling periods with [14C]glycine revealed an uneven distribution of label throughout the chain, and the specific activity data has been used in conjunction with available chemical evidence to establish the linear order of the CNBr peptides in α1(II) as: 1–4–6–12–11–8–10–5–9–7–14–15. These data, then, allow the localization of all of the CNBr peptides in α1(II), with the exception of peptides 2 and 3, which together account for only six amino acids of the chain. Calculations based on the specific activity gradients observed for the CNBr peptides after pulse labeling indicate an apparent synthesis time of 4.5 min for α1(II), in good agreement with previous studies on the synthesis of α1(I) and α2 chains of bone collagen.