cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of Functionalized N-Acetyl Muramic Acids To Probe Bacterial Cell Wall Recycling and Biosynthesis

Uridine diphosphate N-acetyl muramic acid (UDP NAM) is a critical intermediate in bacterial peptidoglycan (PG) biosynthesis. As the primary source of muramic acid that shapes the PG backbone, modifications installed at the UDP NAM intermediate can be used to selectively tag and manipulate this polymer via metabolic incorporation. However, synthetic and purification strategies to access large quantities of these PG building blocks, as well as their derivatives, are challenging. A robust chemoenzymatic synthesis was developed using an expanded NAM library to produce a variety of 2-N-functionalized UDP NAMs. In addition, a synthetic strategy to access bio-orthogonal 3-lactic acid NAM derivatives was developed. The chemoenzymatic UDP synthesis revealed that the bacterial cell wall recycling enzymes MurNAc/GlcNAc anomeric kinase (AmgK) and NAM α-1 phosphate uridylyl transferase (MurU) were permissive to permutations at the two and three positions of the sugar donor. We further explored the utility of these der...
Abstract 2863: Dissecting the structural basis for inhibitors of RNA-binding proteins

RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) are key regulators of cellular functions, especially in post-transcriptional regulations. Dysregulation of RBPs is implicated in many diseases including cancer. One of the RBPs that is overexpressed in a variety of human cancer is Musashi-2 (MSI2). Elevated MSI2 expression is associated with ectopic oncogenic pathways, including but not limited to NUMB/Notch, PTEN/mTOR, TGF-β/SMAD3, making MSI2 a promising therapeutic target for cancer. In the case of NUMB, MSI2 binds to and negatively regulates translation of NUMB, a negative regulator of Notch signaling. Protein structure is critical for drug discovery and structure-based rational design. However, so far there is no structure available for MSI2 protein. Recently, using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) we solved the first solution structure of MSI2 RNA-recognition Motif 1 (MSI2-RRM1) that forms the major long narrow RNA-binding pocket. Using a fluorescence polarization (FP) chemical libraries screening, we identified several groups of hit compounds that disrupt the binding of MSI2-NUMB RNA potently. These compounds induced apoptosis, inhibited cancer cell proliferation, invasion and metastasis in multiple tumor models tested in vitro and in vivo. They also interfered with cancer stem cell functions with reduced tumorsphere formation. Several lead compounds showed promising efficacy in animal tumor models of human breast, prostate and colon cancer. To investigate the specificity of the compounds towards other RBPs, the compounds were tested in biophysical binding assays such as FP, time resolved Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer assay (TR-FRET), NMR spectroscopy and cell-based assays. We compared the affinity of these MSI2 inhibitors towards other RBPs such as MSI1 and HuR. Using docking and molecular dynamics simulation, we analyzed the structure-activity relationship of these inhibitors towards different RBP targets. This work adds significant information to the structure of MSI2-RRM1 and the structural basis for designing more potent and specific inhibitors of RBPs. Citation Format: Lan Lan, Minli Xing, Xiaoqing Wu, Philip Gao, Justin T. Douglas, Yu Zhan, Gulhumay Gardashova, Jiajun Liu, Robert P. Hanzlik, Jeffrey Aube, Kristi L. Neufeld, Berl R. Oakley, Roberto N. De Guzman, Liang Xu. Dissecting the structural basis for inhibitors of RNA-binding proteins [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2018; 2018 Apr 14-18; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 2863.
Comparing normalization methods and the impact of noise.

Failure to properly account for normal systematic variations in OMICS datasets may result in misleading biological conclusions. Accordingly, normalization is a necessary step in the proper preprocessing of OMICS datasets. In this regards, an optimal normalization method will effectively reduce unwanted biases and increase the accuracy of downstream quantitative analyses. But, it is currently unclear which normalization method is best since each algorithm addresses systematic noise in different ways. Determine an optimal choice of a normalization method for the preprocessing of metabolomics datasets. Nine MVAPACK normalization algorithms were compared with simulated and experimental NMR spectra modified with added Gaussian noise and random dilution factors. Methods were evaluated based on an ability to recover the intensities of the true spectral peaks and the reproducibility of true classifying features from orthogonal projections to latent structures—discriminant analysis model (OPLS-DA). Most normalization methods (except histogram matching) performed equally well at modest levels of signal variance. Only probabilistic quotient (PQ) and constant sum (CS) maintained the highest level of peak recovery (> 67%) and correlation with true loadings (> 0.6) at maximal noise. PQ and CS performed the best at recovering peak intensities and reproducing the true classifying features for an OPLS-DA model regardless of spectral noise level. Our findings suggest that performance is largely determined by the level of noise in the dataset, while the effect of dilution factors was negligible. A minimal allowable noise level of 20% was also identified for a valid NMR metabolomics dataset.
Energy Efficiency of RSMA and NOMA in Cellular-Connected mmWave UAV Networks

Cellular-connected unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are recently getting significant attention due to various practical use cases, e.g., surveillance, data gathering, purchase delivery, among other applications. Since UAVs are low power nodes, energy and spectral efficient communication is of paramount importance. To that end, multiple access (MA) schemes can play an important role in achieving high energy efficiency and spectral efficiency. In this work, we introduce rate-splitting MA (RSMA) and non-orthogonal MA (NOMA) schemes in a cellular-connected UAV network. In particular, we investigate the energy efficiency of the RSMA and NOMA schemes in a millimeter wave (mmWave) downlink transmission scenario. Furthermore, we optimize precoding vectors of both the schemes by explicitly taking into account the 3GPP antenna propagation patterns. The numerical results for this realistic transmission scheme indicate that RSMA is superior to NOMA in terms of overall energy efficiency.
A Diverse Microbial Community Supports Larval Development and Survivorship of the Asian Tiger Mosquito (Diptera: Culicidae)

Laboratory microcosm experiments were conducted to evaluate effects of bacteria isolated from senescent white oak leaves on the growth and survivorship of larval Aedes albopictus (Skuse). Larvae hatched from surface-sterilized eggs were reared in microcosms containing individual bacterial isolates, combined isolates (Porphyrobacter sp., Enterobacter asburiae, Acidiphilium rubrum, Pseudomonas syringae, and Azorhizobium caulinodans), a positive control containing a microbial community from an infusion of white oak leaves, and a negative control consisting of sterile culture media. Experiments were conducted for 21 d after which microcosms were deconstructed, larval survivorship was calculated, and bacteria contained in pupae, and adults that developed were quantified to determine rates of transstadial transmission. Positive control microcosms containing diverse microbial communities had an average (±SE) pupation rate of 89.3 (±5.8)% and average larval survivorship of 96.0 (± 2.3)%. Pupation in microcosms with bacterial isolates only occurred twice among all experimental replications; average larval survivorship ranged from 19 to 56%, depending on treatment. Larval growth was not found to be dependent on bacterial isolate density or isolate species, and larval survivorship was dependent on bacterial isolate density, not on isolate species. Potential mechanisms for failed development of larvae in microcosms with bacterial isolates are discussed. Bacterial isolates alone did not support larval development. High larval survivorship in positive control microcosms suggests that a diverse microbial community is required to complete larval development. Additional studies are needed to evaluate larval growth and survivorship on nonbacterial microbes, such as fungi and protozoa.
Rapid and High-Resolution Multidimensional Coherent Spectroscopy Using Three Frequency Combs

We present a novel method, tri-comb spectroscopy, which enables the measurement of a high-resolution multidimensional coherent spectrum in 365 ms. This method has the potential to become a field-deployable device for remote-sensing applications.
Role of the Interface between Ag and ZnO in the Electric Conductivity of Ag Nanoparticle-Embedded ZnO

The addition of Ag nanoparticles (Ag NPs) with an average size of 30 nm into ZnO increases the electric conductivity up to 1000 times. While a similar increase in the conductivity is observed in a ...
Variables Associated With Lag Screw Sliding After Single-Screw Cephalomedullary Nail Fixation of Intertrochanteric Fractures.

Objectives To evaluate variables associated with lag screw sliding after single-screw cephalomedullary nail (CMN) fixation of intertrochanteric femur fractures. Design Retrospective cohort study. Setting Level-one trauma center. Patients/participants One hundred fifty-eight intertrochanteric fractures in patients older than 65 years with an average follow-up of 22 months. Intervention Single-screw CMN fixation. Main outcome measurements Lag screw sliding and revision surgeries. Results The average amount of lag screw sliding was 5 ± 5 mm (range, 0-21 mm). Lag screw sliding was greater with unstable fracture patterns (mean difference 2 mm, 95% confidence interval 0.4-3.5 mm, P = 0.01) and calcar gapping >4 mm (mean difference 3.7 mm, 95% confidence interval 2-5 mm, P 0.05). Revision surgeries were performed in 6 (4%) patients. Indications included symptomatic lag screw removal (n = 2), avascular necrosis (n = 1), cutout (n = 1), loss of reduction (n = 1), and perimplant fracture (n = 1). Conclusions Unstable fracture patterns are unavoidable; however, careful attention to calcar reduction and selection of dual-screw CMN implants may minimize lag screw sliding and its detrimental effects on outcomes. Level of evidence Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Controlled atmosphere and shelf life performance of a new late-maturing Japanese pear (Pyrus pyrifolia (Burm. F.) Nakai) cultivar 'Atago'.

The aim of this research was to investigate the optimum storage condition, duration and shelf life performance of a new late-maturing Japanese pear cultivar ‘Atago’ under normal atmosphere, controlled atmosphere and shelf life conditions. For this purpose, fruits without injury or decay were divided into two groups. Group 1 (control) was stored in normal atmosphere; group 2 was stored in controlled atmosphere at 2.5% O2 + 1.5% CO2. The fruits were stored at 0 °C and 90-95% relative humidity for 32 weeks. 120 fruits were removed from normal atmosphere and controlled atmosphere every two months. Analyses were conducted on 60 fruits immediately after removal from storage, whereas remaining 60 fruits were transferred to the shelf life conditions (20 °C and 60-65% relative humidity), where they were kept for 5 d for shelf life performance evaluation. Fruits were analyzed for weight loss, peel and flesh color, flesh firmness, pH, titratable acidity, soluble solid content, respiration rate, ethylene production, peel, internal and core browning, rotting, superficial and senescent scald and sensorial evaluation. According to results of ethylene production ‘Atago’ was evaluated in the moderate range of the ethylene-generating group of Japanese pears and accepted as a climacteric fruit. Core browning was at higher levels in normal atmosphere than controlled atmosphere at the end of the storage. Results suggested that ‘Atago’ should be stored in controlled atmosphere at 2.5% O2 + 1.5% CO2 to prevent core browning and rotting and to maintain a high-quality extended marketing period.
Here's looking at you, kid? Maternal depression and adolescent attention to self- or other-directed emotional faces.

Abstract Background Maternal depression history represents a significant risk factor for developing psychopathology in children, altered emotional responding may represent a central risk pathway. However, additional research is needed on factors that affect the strength or direction of response alterations in relation to depression-risk in youth. In particular, facial orientation and gaze direction may alter personal relevance, with emotions directed towards an individual heightening motivational salience, compared to emotions directed away. Methods Mother-daughter dyads (N = 56) were recruited based on presence or absence of maternal depression history and absence of youth depression. In line with theoretical perspectives suggesting diminished sensitivity to emotional context in relation to depression risk, we examined three Event-Related Potential (ERP) components in relation to forward versus averted emotional faces in a sample of girls with and without a maternal history of depression: the N200, N400, and Late Positive Potential (LPP). Results Results showed a significant maternal depression history by face-orientation effect. Low-risk girls exhibited more negative N200 and N400 amplitudes for straight (M = −3.72, SE = 0.83; M = −3.57, SE = 0.86) versus averted (M = −2.15, SE = 0.76; M = −1.68, SE = 0.81) faces, while girls of mothers with histories of depression showed undifferentiated N200 or N400 responses in relation to face orientation. For LPP amplitudes, low-risk girls exhibited significantly more positive LPP amplitudes than high-risk girls, but only for averted faces (M = 0.69, SE = 0.59 and M = −2.63, SE = 0.74, respectively). Limitations Cross-sectional design and limited sample. Conclusions Results indicate that familial depression risk is associated with altered responsivity to face-orientation, these were interpreted as representing differential sensitivity to the personal-relevance of emotional stimuli.
Real-world outcomes of pembrolizumab in peritoneal mesothelioma.

e21094Background: Clinical trials evaluating pembrolizumab (P) in malignant mesothelioma (MM) have included small numbers of peritoneal MM (MPM) patients (pts), but the efficacy of P in the MPM sub...
Do linograms aid decision making in the management of malfunctioning tunnelled central venous catheters in paediatric patients

Abstract Introduction Dynamic fluoroscopic imaging with contrast injection (also known as a linogram), is a commonly used imaging modality to determine tunnelled central venous catheter (tunnelled CVC) patency when malfunction is suspected; the commonest abnormality detected is an occlusive or non-occlusive fibrin sheath. If detected, some interventional radiologists can perform fibrin sheath removal, though recent studies suggest the benefit following this is short term. This study therefore aimed to evaluate whether linograms impacted upon clinical practice. Method Retrospective review of all tunnelled CVC linograms performed at a tertiary paediatric centre from Oct 2015–2018. The study indications, outcomes, prior investigations and subsequent tunnelled CVC management were reviewed. Result A total of 142 tunnelled CVC linograms were performed. Indications were: difficulties aspirating (47.1%), flushing (16.1%), suspected extravasation (19.7%) and symptoms indicating infection (21.1%). Abnormal linograms were most likely found in the presence of suspected extravasation (92.8%); infective symptoms had the lowest pickup rate (10% abnormal). 43 linograms (30.1%) were reported as abnormal and 95 (66.9%) normal. 66 patients (46.5%) underwent tunnelled CVC replacement of which 23 had a normal linogram (34.8% of lines replaced). 18 (12.7%) patients had abnormal line position identified (4.2% on a radiograph, 8.5% on linogram). Conclusion Linograms are no replacement for specialist review, and in the absence of interventional fibrin sheath removal availability, they add little to the management of tunnelled CVC complications. Malpositioned tunnelled CVCs can be identified on plain radiography, and normal linograms do not remove the need for replacement. Our new protocol recommends: radiograph to check position, trialling anti-fibrinolytic therapy and review by the Vascular Access Team. Linograms are now reserved for a select group of patients: those with diagnostic uncertainty following specialist review, expected difficulty in tunnelled CVC replacement, or in circumstances where fibrin sheath removal may be a possibility, and short-term benefit favoured.
The Effects of Propofol on Left Ventricular Global Longitudinal Strain.

ObjectivesTo determine if hemodynamic changes secondary to propofol administration are a result of direct myocardial depression as measured by global longitudinal strain (GLS). The authors hypothes...
Controlling 3D deformations of bio-inspired active skins through designed geometrical imperfections

Certain biological organisms are born with shape, texture, and color morphing skin with the purpose of adapting to their surroundings or morphing their skin for camouflage, signaling, and hunting, among others. The recent demonstrations on artificial surfaces for mimicking biological capabilities, such as dry adhesives on geckos’ feet or the low drag coefficient of sharks’ skin, were achieved by controlling its surface topographies (i.e., shape, size, and distribution of asperities). Similarly, there have been tremendous interests in optimizing artificial surfaces that can continuously morph their surface texture for various applications. While several innovative artificial skins based on mechanical metamaterials have been developed, achieving controllable surface morphing remains challenging. In this study, a Bio-Inspired Active Skin (BIAS) that could selectively change its surface topography was designed and controlled by manipulating its local stress concentrations when subjected to strains. The 3D-printed and thin-film-like BIAS is based on a preconceived auxetic pattern designed to yield a Poisson’s ratio of zero. When strained, these mechanical metamaterials can release stress concentrations in the form of bending and twisting, thereby enabling surface morphing. The main focus of this work was to investigate the geometrical dependence (i.e., width and rib angles) on surface morphing performance, as well as the effects of various designed geometrical imperfections (i.e., notch dimensions and locations) to prevent an uncontrollable and unpredictable morphing response. A slight adjustment in the notch design was enough to change the stress concentration, resulting in various deformed states. The nonlinear response of 3D-printed BIAS was characterized using both experiments and finite element simulations to design the unit cell geometries and to optimize the configurations and locations of the designed imperfections.
Divorce in Mexico: The Impact of No-Fault Unilateral Divorce Laws

Between 2008 and 2017, Mexican states implemented no-fault unilateral divorce. Using an event-study design, we exploit state-level variation in the timing of the reforms to investigate the consequences of more liberalized divorce laws. Our results suggest that no-fault divorce dramatically in- creased divorce rates over the short run. We then consider how the reform impacted divorce filings and divorce settlements. We find that no-fault divorce increased individual divorce filings, especially among women. Fur- thermore, the reform lowered the frequency of spousal alimony payments, but redirected these alimony payments towards children. All results hold when accounting for state-specific time trends.
Comparison of a Handheld Device vs Endotracheal Tube-Based Neuromonitoring for Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve Stimulation.

ObjectiveTo measure the effect of thyroidectomy difficulty on intraoperative neuromonitoring false loss of signal (LOS) and to compare intraoperative endotracheal tube–based neuromonitoring (ETNM) ...
Artificial Intelligence in Electric Machine Drives: Advances and Trends.

This review paper systematically summarizes the existing literature on applying classical AI techniques and advanced deep learning algorithms to electric machine drives. It is anticipated that with the rapid progress in deep learning models and embedded hardware platforms, AI-based data-driven approaches will become increasingly popular for the automated high-performance control of electric machines. Additionally, this paper also provides some outlook towards promoting its widespread application in the industry, such as implementing advanced RL algorithms with good domain adaptation and transfer learning capabilities and deploying them onto low-cost SoC FPGA devices.
Assessing Student Learning and Perceptions in an Upper-level General Education Requirement Argumentation Course

This project addressed the difficulties of teaching argument skills, a staple of liberal education, to a mixture of Communication majors and non-majors taking the course for General Education Requirement (GER) credit. The design uses independent instructor comparison of students’ preand post-test performances, students’ comparative self-evaluation of their preand post-test performances, as well as students’ reflections on their learning in response to a separate questionnaire and independent instructor assessment of their performance in arguing those reflective claims, to analyze learning processes in an upper-level argumentation course. The results include specific content concepts and course and instructor strategies that both majors and non-majors credit for improvements in their argument skills, suggestions for assessing whether GER courses meet their learning outcome goals, and analysis of the importance of attending to students’ own perceptions of and justifications for changes (or lack thereof) in their performances on tasks tied to liberal learning outcomes.
Homogeneous bubble nucleation in rhyolitic melt: Experiments and nonclassical theory

[1] The transfer of volatiles from the Earth's interior to the atmosphere occurs through degassing of magma, the dynamics of which assert a significant control on volcanic eruptions. The first and most critical step in degassing is the nucleation of gas bubbles, which requires that a sufficient number of volatile molecules cluster together to overcome the free energy associated with the formation of a new interface between nucleus and surrounding melt. This free energy is a function of surface tension, typically assumed to equate to the macroscopically measurable value. Surface tension estimates inferred from bubble nucleation experiments in silicate melts are, however, lower than direct macroscopic measurements, making it difficult to accurately predict magma ascent and decompression rates from measured bubble number densities in pyroclasts. We provide a potential resolution to this problem through an integrated study of bubble nucleation experiments and modeling thereof, based on nonclassical nucleation theory. We find that surface tension between critical bubble nuclei and the surrounding melt depends on the degree of supersaturation and is lower than the macroscopically measured value. This is consistent with the view that far from equilibrium the interface between a nucleus and surrounding metastable bulk phase is diffuse instead of sharp. As a consequence, the increase in nucleation rate with supersaturation is significantly larger at high supersaturations than predicted by classical nucleation theory.
Ecology and Recolonization of Benthic Macroinvertebrates in a Groundwater-dependent Stream in North Central Texas During a Supra-seasonal Drought

Extreme climatic events such as droughts are known to eliminate aquatic biota and alter community structure and function. Perennial headwater springs provide important drought refugia to benthic macroinvertebrates and an important source of colonists via drift or aerial adults to intermittent streams post-drought. During a supra-seasonal drought in North-central Texas summer and fall 2006, benthic macroinvertebrates from persistent groundwater-dependent macrohabitats of varying hydrological connectivity and riparian shading were studied: perennial riffles, connected pools, shaded disconnected pools, and full sun disconnected pools. Riffles were a distinct habitat with significantly higher taxa richness, proportion of lotic taxa, diversity and evenness than other macrohabitats. Macrohabitats were found to be important refugia for 106 benthic macroinvertebrates and 4 microcrustacean taxa. Throughout the extreme drought, perennially flowing habitats were refugia to 19 taxa (17.9% total taxa) not collected in disconnected pools. Shaded disconnected pools contained lotic taxa not previously known to be able to complete their lifecycles in lentic habitats, emphasizing the importance of groundwater effluent and shading. With the resumption of flow at a downstream intermittent site of Ash Creek in mid-October 2006, an annual recolonization study was conducted comparing the perennial headwaters’ benthic macroinvertebrate taxa richness, densities and community ecology with the downstream intermittent site. The headwaters supported higher mean taxa richness than the intermittent site over the duration of the study (ANOVA P < 0.001). However, the unexpected result of overall decreasing taxa richness at the perennial headwater site from August 2006 to April 2008 appears to reflect lag effects of the supra-seasonal drought combined with effects of multiple spates of 2007, which are factors confounding the point of recovery for taxa richness. Recovery of taxa richness at the intermittent site took 9 months compared to 1 to 2 months reported in other arid and semi-arid streams in the United States recovering from seasonal drying and floods. Sustainable use of groundwater resources and conservation of riparian corridors is vital to protecting groundwater-dependent ecosystems that play a vital role in maintaining regional biodiversity by serving as biotic refugia during catastrophic disturbance.
Fluorescent protein-dye conjugates: I. Heterogeneity of sites on serum albumin labeled by dansyl chloride

Abstract The visible fluorescence of bovine serum albumin (BSA) labeled by reaction with dausyl chloride has been characterized by measurements of true emission spectra, quantum yields, fluorescence decay times, and fluorescence polarization. The degree of labeling influences all four parameters. Two types of sites result in fluorescence of the dansyl group with maxima at 500 mμ and at 540 mμ. One of the 500 mμ sites is predominant in lightly labeled conjugates and has a quantum yield of 0.7 and a fluorescence decay time of 22 nsec. The quantum yield of heavily labeled conjugates approaches 0.3. The emission spectra are largely independent of excitation wavelength, and the heterogeneity of fluorescence is due at least partly to the presence of the dansyl groups in sites of differing polarity. In very highly labeled conjugates, the polarization is decreased, probably by energy transfer between dansyl groups. At all degrees of labeling, the fluorescence decay is complex and nonexponential, being made up of short- and long-lived emission components corresponding to the 500 and 540 mμ dansyl fluorescences. The present results point up several difficulties, which are discussed, in the interpretation of typical fluorescence depolarization experiments on labeled proteins having heterogeneous emission. Such quantitative measurements of the fluorescence of dansyl conjugates may be useful in studying the environment of the sites labeled on various proteins.
An 8-element 400 GHz phased-array in 45 nm CMOS SOI

This paper presents an RF-beamforming phased-array with operation at 375–405 GHz. The phased-array is built using 45 nm CMOS SOI and is based on quadruplers at each antenna element which convert the RF signal from 95–105 GHz to 360–420 GHz. The antennas are high efficiency microstrip design with > 44% radiation efficiency (including the CMOS metal fill) due to the use of a 100 µm-thick quartz superstrate layer. The 8-element linear array scans over +/− 35° of angular space, and results in a peak EIRP of 5 dBm and a 3-dB bandwidth of 375- 405 GHz (EIRP > 2 dBm). To our knowledge, this is the first phased-array with scanned patterns at > 300 GHz using CMOS.
Flexible body dynamics of the goldfish C-start: implications for reticulospinal command mechanisms.

As a model for learning how reticulospinal networks coordinate movement, we have analyzed the function of the Mauthner (M-) neurons in the escape response of the goldfish. We used water displacements of 3–6 micron to elicit C-start escape responses. These responses consist of 2 fundamental movements that grade into each other: Stage 1 lasts 15–40 msec and rotates the body 30 degrees-100 degrees about the center of mass; stage 2 is an axial acceleration that moves the center of mass 2– 6 cm. Combined, the 2 stages result in trajectory turns ranging from 15 degrees to 135 degrees. Thus, these data show that M-initiated C-starts are not fixed movement patterns. The durations of stage 1 body muscle EMGs were correlated with turn angles achieved during stage 1. Since variable stage 1 EMGs are not seen when the M-cell is triggered by itself, other circuits, independent of the M-cell, must control the extent of the initial turn, and consequently escape trajectory. Furthermore, turning angles of stages 1 and 2 were correlated, allowing escape trajectory to be predicted, on average, 26 msec after movement started. This suggests that the commands for escape trajectory should be organized by the end of stage 1. In concert with this, the time of onset of the stage 2 EMG preceded the stage 2 onset by a range with a mean of 28.4 msec, typically putting the stage 2 command at the beginning of stage 1 movement. Thus, stage 2 initiation does not require motion-dependent feedback. Our findings indicate that the Mauthner cell initiates the first of a series of motor commands that establish the initial left-right decision of the escape sequence from the side of the stimulus, whereas parallel circuits simultaneously organize the command controlling the escape angle.
Fast algorithm for neural network reconstruction

We propose an efficient and accurate way of predicting the connectivity of neural networks in the brain represented by simulated calcium fluorescence data. Classical methods to neural network reconstruction compute a connectivity matrix whose entries are pairwise likelihoods of directed excitatory connections based on time-series signals of each pair of neurons. Our method uses only a fraction of this computation to achieve equal or better performance. The proposed method is based on matrix completion and a local thresholding technique. By computing a subset of the total entries in the connectivity matrix, we use matrix completion to determine the rest of the connection likelihoods, and apply a local threshold to identify which directed connections exist in the underlying network. We validate the proposed method on a simulated calcium fluorescence dataset. The proposed method outperforms the classical one with 20% of the computation.
Low-cost approaches to virtual flight simulation

An attempt was made to determine whether a flight simulator could be hosted on inexpensive computer image generators (CIG) and interfaced to a virtual environment system. Effective training systems provide a wide visual field-of-view through the use of CRT (cathode ray tube) arrays or dome simulator projectors. These display systems require graphics processing support from expensive CIGs with multiple graphics channels. A promising technology that could help reduce the costs of these flight simulators is head-mounted display (HMD) systems. Simple virtual world interfaces using HMD technology require only one graphics channel, providing the potential to use low-cost CIGs. The approach was to build a virtual world interface to an existing flight simulator application using an HMD. To investigate two classes of computing platforms suitable for use as the CIG, the flight simulator was hosted on a Silicon Graphics Iris 4D/85GT and an 80386/80387 enhanced with a high-performance graphics engine. Neither the SGI 4D/85GT system nor the PC system achieved the desired frame rate. >
Human adipose stromal vascular cell delivery in a fibrin spray

Abstract Background aims Adipose tissue represents a practical source of autologous mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) and vascular-endothelial progenitor cells, available for regenerative therapy without in vitro expansion. One of the problems confronting the therapeutic application of such cells is how to immobilize them at the wound site. We evaluated in vitro the growth and differentiation of human adipose stromal vascular fraction (SVF) cells after delivery through the use of a fibrin spray system. Methods SVF cells were harvested from four human adult patients undergoing elective abdominoplasty, through the use of the LipiVage system. After collagenase digestion, mesenchymal and endothelial progenitor cells (pericytes, supra-adventitial stromal cells, endothelial progenitors) were quantified by flow cytometry before culture. SVF cells were applied to culture vessels by means of the Tisseel fibrin spray system. SVF cell growth and differentiation were documented by immunofluorescence staining and photomicrography. Results SVF cells remained viable after application and were expanded up to 3 weeks, when they reached confluence and adipogenic differentiation. Under angiogenic conditions, SVF cells formed endothelial (vWF+, CD31+ and CD34+) tubules surrounded by CD146+ and α-smooth muscle actin+ perivascular/stromal cells. Conclusions Human adipose tissue is a rich source of autologous stem cells, which are readily available for regenerative applications such as wound healing, without in vitro expansion. Our results indicate that mesenchymal and endothelial progenitor cells, prepared in a closed system from unpassaged lipoaspirate samples, retain their growth and differentiation capacity when applied and immobilized on a substrate using a clinically approved fibrin sealant spray system.
The association between chewing and swallowing difficulties and nutritional status in older adults.

Background The aim of this study was to investigate the associations of chewing and swallowing dysfunctions to nutritional status in older adults. Methods This cross-sectional study comprised a convenience sample of 1065 community-dwelling older adults living in rural United States. Dietary assessment included the Block Full Length Food Frequency Questionnaire, 24-hour Food Intake Recall and Mini Nutritional Assessment. Classification of chewing and swallowing difficulties was determined by a criterion of outlined factors. Results In our sample, 113 (11%) had chewing difficulties, 51 (5%) had swallowing difficulties, and 11 (1%) had both. Compared to the Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs), the study population was deficient in calories and several nutrients. Mean daily intake in individuals reporting chewing, swallowing, or difficulties with both were 1489 ± 360, 1461 ± 374 and 1374 ± 240 calories respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups. Vitamin A, vitamin E and manganese were significantly lower in those with chewing difficulties while vitamin E and magnesium were significantly lower in individuals with swallowing difficulties (p < 0.05). Conclusions These results emphasize the importance of chewing and swallowing difficulties in modulating nutritional outcomes in older adults. These co-morbidities should be monitored in this population and intake of nutrient dense foods should be increased in those at risk.
Disposition of 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone in rats dosed orally, intravenously, or topically.

Administration to rats of oral doses of [ 14 C]‐2‐hydroxy‐4‐methoxybenzophenone (HMB) in the range of 3.01–2570 mg/kg revealed that a dose‐dependent elimination process was operative at the highest dose. Urinary excretion (63.9–72.9% of the dose in 72 h) was the major route for elimination of radioactivity. An intravenous dose (4.63 mg/kg) distributed rapidly throughout the body of rats and appeared in the urine in an amount (67.4%) similar to those for the oral doses. Rats absorbed large portions of doses of [ 14 C]HMB administered topically, either as an ethanolic solution (50, 200, or 800 μg/rat) or formulated in a lotion (50 μg/rat). For rats with biliary cannulas, 36.6% of the radioactivity of an intravenous dose (4.46 mg/kg) appeared in the bile in 4 h; the initial half‐life for biliary elimination was 40 min. In the bile, at least five radioactive components, none of which was intact HMB, were present. The two major components were glucuronides of HMB and demethylated HMB, and a third was probably ...
I treat all my patients aggressively.

Jim Drane's mother was 85 years old last year when she suffered a severe stroke. Before the stroke, she had been weak and generally confined to her home for several years. One or another of her children visited almost daily to keep her company and help with chores around the house. She was neither depressed nor unhappy, but prayed every day for a peaceful death. She was particularly frightened by horror stories about mechanical life support. "Whatever happens, don't let them turn me into a vegetable," she pleaded. She was quite clear about her desires, completed a Living Will, and gave Jim durable power of attorney. A day after the stroke, Jim arrived from Pennsylvania to find his mother hooked up to an array of high tech supports and monitors. She was comatose. She had undergone invasive diagnostic tests, but no one in the family had been consulted for permission to do them. Though her Living Will was on the medical chart, Jim found that his mother's doctors were apparently paying no attention to its provisions. They went out of their way to avoid discussing her treatment with Jim. They didn't answer his messages. It took him a couple of days to track down the attending physician. When finally confronted in a hospital corridor, that doctor told Jim, "I have my own philosophy about treatment. I believe in treating every patient aggressively. I know about the cost issues, but they are not my concern." Jim explained that his mother had given explicit instructions not to use mechanical life support if she had a stroke. "Didn't you see the Living Will? Don't you have a responsibility to honor your patient's wishes? . . . . I treat all my patients aggressively," the doctor repeated. "Why?" Jim asked. "Because in life we only get one case of Schlitz." My friend told me this story one afternoon as we sat in his office in the philosophy department at Edinboro University of Pennsylvania. It was ironic
‘This was my hell’: the violence experienced by gender non‐conforming youth in US high schools

This paper explores the experiences of harassment and violence endured by seven gender non‐conforming youth in US high schools. Based on a larger research project, it opens an inquiry into the school‐based lives of gender‐variant teens, a group heretofore ignored by most academics and educators. Breaking violence down into two main types (physical and sexual), this work uses informants’ voices, along with ‘doing gender’ theory, to analyze the experiences of butch lesbian girls, trans teenagers, and genderqueer youth. The author also examines the impact of this violence on their self‐esteem, academic achievement, substance use and sexual lives. This paper points out the similarities and differences between gender identity groups and suggests specific areas for school‐based and cultural reform that would protect such teens.
Digital tomosynthesis mammography: comparison of mass classification using 3D slices and 2D projection views

We are developing computer-aided diagnosis (CADx) methods for classification of masses on digital breast tomosynthesis mammograms (DBTs). A DBT data set containing 107 masses (56 malignant and 51 benign) collected at the Massachusetts General Hospital was used. The DBTs were obtained with a GE prototype system which acquired 11 projection views (PVs) over a 50-degree arc. We reconstructed the DBTs at 1-mm slice interval using a simultaneous algebraic reconstruction technique. The regions of interest (ROIs) containing the masses in the DBT volume and the corresponding ROIs on the PVs were identified. The mass on each slice or each PV was segmented by an active contour model. Spiculation measures, texture features, and morphological features were extracted from the segmented mass. Four feature spaces were formed: (1) features from the central DBT slice, (2) average features from 5 DBT slices centered at the central slice, (3) features from the central PV, and (4) average features from all 11 PVs. In each feature space, a linear discriminant analysis classifier with stepwise feature selection was trained and tested using a two loop leave-one-case-out procedure. The test Az of 0.91±0.03 from the 5-DBT-slice feature space was significantly (p=0.003) higher than that of 0.84±0.04 from the 1-DBT-slice feature space. The test Az of 0.83±0.04 from the 11-PV feature space was not significantly different (p=0.18) from that of 0.79±0.04 from the 1-PV feature space. The classification accuracy in the 5-DBT-slice feature space was significantly better (p=0.006) than that in the 11-PV feature space. The results demonstrate that the features of breast lesions extracted from the DBT slices may provide higher classification accuracy than those from the PV images.
Quantitative structure-activity relationship based quantification of the impacts of enzyme-substrate binding on rates of peroxidase-mediated reactions of estrogenic phenolic chemicals.

The initial rates of horseradish peroxidase (HRP)-mediated enzymatic reactions of 15 assorted aqueous phase phenolic chemicals were studied. The associated reaction rate constants were found to correlate quantitatively with two independent variables: the highest-occupied molecular orbital energy (EHOMO) defining the intrinsic redox reactivities of the phenolic substrates and the distance between a substrate and the δN of HIS42's imidazole ring in an HRP/substrate binding complex, obtained through molecular simulations. Highly correlated quantitative structure−activity relationship (QSAR) equations were thus developed. This work provides insights into the impacts that HRP/substrate binding may have on HRP-mediated reactions. Additionally, the QSAR equations developed in the work may serve as a basis to further explore the potential use of HRP-mediated reactions in the treatment of estrogenic contaminants, and they constitute an important tool for redesign and screening of potential proteomic modifications...
Volume rendering based interactive navigation within the human colon (case study)

We present an interactive navigation system for virtual colonoscopy, which is based solely on high performance volume rendering. Previous colonic navigation systems have employed either a surface rendering or a Z-buffer-assisted volume rendering method that depends on the surface rendering results. Our method is a fast direct volume rendering technique that exploits distance information stored in the potential field of the camera control model, and is parallelized on a multiprocessor. Experiments have been conducted on both a simulated pipe and patients' data sets acquired with a CT scanner.
Wavelength dependent scattering caused by dust accumulation on solar mirrors

Abstract The reflectance properties of several solar mirror materials have been studied after the mirrors were subjected to ten months of outdoor exposure in Albuquerque, NM. The mirror materials include second-surface, silvered float glass; an aluminized acrylic film; an aluminized teflon film; and a roll polished aluminum sheet. The specular reflectance properties were measured as a function of angular aperture using a bidirectional reflectometer while the diffuse reflectance and hemispherical reflectance were measured using an integrating sphere reflectometer. The outdoor exposure resulted in a buildup on the mirror surface of particulates, which can both scatter and absorb incident solar radiation. For the materials studied, the reduction in specular reflectance was approximately five times greater than the reduction in hemispherical reflectance, indicating that the deposited particles are much more effective in scattering radiation than absorbing it. The specular reflectance loss caused by the accumulated dust particles was measured for each mirror during the 10 month exposure. When normalized by the hemispherical reflectance of each mirror, the wavelength dependence of the normalized scattering curves were identical for all mirrors after the same exposure time. The normalized scattering curve changes during the course of the outdoor exposure, suggesting that the particle size distribution of accumulated dust is changing with time. Over the 10 month period, the average decrease in the specular reflectance measured at 500 nm was slightly smaller for the silvered glass mirror as compared to the aluminized acrylic and aluminized teflon mirrors. The measurement statistics associated with determining the mean reflectance value after outdoor exposure from a number of discrete measurements are briefly discussed. In addition, data are presented which indicate that a decrease in the Fe 2+ absorption band after outdoor exposure for the silvered float glass mirror.
Amplitudes on entities

A stochastic model for a quantum system is developed in terms of amplitude densities on an entity. An entity provides an axiomatic description for the set of tests and states of a physical system and an amplitude density gives a means for computing probabilities within this framework. The interference and independence of tests relative to an amplitude density are formulated. Various ways of combining entities and amplitudes are presented. Superpositions of amplitudes and superselection sectors in the amplitude space are considered. Finally, symmetry groups and systems of covariance on an entity are developed.
Parental Influence and Academic Achievement among Middle School Students: Parent Perspective

This study examined the effects of parental influence on middle school students' academic achievement. The sample included 32 parents of middle school students. The questionnaire measured: parental pressure and support; parental help, monitoring, and press for literacy; and communication. There was a relationship that approached significance between communication and academic achievement: as communication increased, academic achievement increased. There was also a relationship that approached significance between parental help, monitoring, and press for literacy and parents' highest level of education: the higher the level of education of parents, the more involved parents were. The implication for school social workers is discussed.
Playing violent video games and desensitization to violence

This article examines current research linking exposure to violent video games and desensitization to violence. Data from questionnaire, behavioral, and psychophysiologic research are reviewed to determine if exposure to violent video games is a risk factor for desensitization to violence. Real-world implications of desensitization are discussed.