cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Acculturation and crime: Protecting the male and female offspring of U.S. immigrants against future arrest and incarceration

ABSTRACTThe purpose of this study was to assess the effect of acculturation on future criminality in the children of immigrants. This research question was explored in 3,211 children of immigrants ...
Absence of gut microbial colonization attenuates the sympathoadrenal response to hypoglycemic stress in mice: implications for human neonates

Gut microbiota plays an important role during early development via bidirectional gut–brain signaling. Catecholamines provide a survival advantage allowing adaptation to common postnatal stressors. We aimed to explore the potential link between gut microbiota/gut-derived metabolites and sympathoadrenal stress responsivity. The effect of insulin-induced hypoglycemia was compared in mice with (control, adapted control) and without microbiome (germ-free, GF). Counter-regulatory hormones were analyzed in urine and plasma. Adrenal gene expression levels were evaluated and correlated to cecal short chain fatty acids (SCFA) content. There was a significant association between absent microbiota/SCFA and epinephrine levels at baseline and after stress. Corticosterone (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis) and glucagon release (parasympathetic signaling) were similar in all groups. Hypoglycemia-induced c-Fos (marker of trans-synaptic neuronal activation) in both conditions. Delayed increases in adrenal tyrosine hydroxylase and neuropeptide Y messenger RNA were observed in GF mice. Transcriptome analysis provided insight into underlying mechanisms for attenuated epinephrine production and release. Lack of microbiome selectively impaired adrenal catecholamine responses to hypoglycemia. We speculate that absent/delayed acquisition of flora (e.g., after antibiotic exposure) may compromise sympathoadrenal stress responsivity. Conversely, controlled manipulation of the intestinal microflora may provide a novel therapeutic opportunity to improve survival and overall health in preterm neonates.
Participation, Meaningful Activity, and Social Support Among U.S. Student Service Members/Veterans

Student service members/veterans (SSM/Vs) may experience diminished social support and meaningful activity due to health-related sequelae, in turn threatening their community reintegration. Social and community participation may foster both social support and meaningful activity. This study assessed whether social and community participation explained social support and meaningful activity and evaluated the psychometric properties of the Veterans' Social and Community Participation Assessment (VSCPA). Online surveys generated responses to the VSCPA, indicators of social support, meaningful activity, health-related challenges, and demographic characteristics. Multiple regression models explored predictors of social support and meaningful activity. The VSCPA comprised three components: active community participation, familial and household participation, and social participation. These components exhibited positive associations with social support and meaningful activity and negative relationships with health-related sequelae. Targeting social and community participation among SSM/Vs may be a fruitful means by which occupational therapists bolster social support and meaningful activity.
Parallelized multi-layered Monte Carlo model for evaluation of a proximal phalanx photoplethysmograph

Blood pressure is a primary candidate to be remotely characterized by continuous monitoring devices, as high blood pressure is frequently a symptom of chronic conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease while also leading to morbidity itself. Much work has been done to characterize an electrocardiogram (EKG)-photoplethysmogram (PPG) continuous monitor, however a dual PPG continuous monitor may yield more accurate results due to the lack of the inherent pre-ejection period. To predict the anticipated signal of a remote dual-photoplethysmogram (PPG) blood pressure monitor, we utilized parallelized multi-layer Monte Carlo modelling to estimate light transport through the index finger at the proximal phalange. Monte Carlo models of the digital artery and surrounding tissue were created that represent various skin tones as well as the presence of arterioles. Additionally, the signal contribution by arteriole and artery was also determined. By varying incident wavelength, source-detector separation, skin tone, and arterial diameter as a function of pulse propagation; the feasibility of a proximal phalange PPG can be estimated and further optimized to aid development of a dual-PPG blood pressure monitor. The modelling results indicate that at a separation of 3.0mm, 700nm wavelength provides signal resolution that is indicative of contribution from the artery and not the arterioles, which could be beneficial for estimating pulse transit time toward calculating blood pressure. Further work should be completed to optimize sourcedetector separation for arterial contribution to signal and explore various locations on the body, as much optical property variation exists within literature.
New Dromaeosaurid Dinosaur (Theropoda, Dromaeosauridae) from New Mexico and Biodiversity of Dromaeosaurids at the end of the Cretaceous

Dromaeosaurids (Theropoda: Dromaeosauridae), a group of dynamic, swift predators, have a sparse fossil record, particularly at the time of their extinction near the Cretaceous-Paleogene boundary. Here we report on a new dromaeosaurid, Dineobellator notohesperus, gen. and sp. nov., consisting of a partial skeleton from the Upper Cretaceous (Maastrichtian) of New Mexico, the first diagnostic dromaeosaurid to be recovered from the latest Cretaceous of the southern United States (southern Laramidia). The holotype includes elements of the skull, axial, and appendicular skeleton. The specimen reveals a host of morphologies that shed light on new behavioral attributes for these feathered dinosaurs. Unique features on its forelimbs suggest greater strength capabilities in flexion than the normal dromaeosaurid condition, in conjunction with a relatively tighter grip strength in the manual claws. Aspects of the caudal vertebrae suggest greater movement near the tail base, aiding in agility and predation. Phylogenetic analysis places Dineobellator within Velociraptorinae. Its phylogenetic position, along with that of other Maastrichtian taxa (Acheroraptor and Dakotaraptor), suggests dromaeosaurids were still diversifying at the end of the Cretaceous. Furthermore, its recovery as a second North American Maastrichtian velociraptorine suggests vicariance of North American velociraptorines after a dispersal event during the Campanian-Maastrichtian from Asia. Features of Dineobellator also imply that dromaeosaurids were active predators that occupied discrete ecological niches while living in the shadow of Tyrannosaurus rex, until the end of the dinosaurs’ reign.
Electron transfer calculations between edge sharing octahedra in hematite, goethite, and annite

Abstract A key reaction underlying the charge transport in iron containing oxides, clays, micas is the Fe 2 + - Fe 3 + exchange reaction between edge-sharing iron octahedra. These reactions facilitate conduction in these minerals by the thermally-activated hopping of small polarons across the lattice. Depending on the mineral and local charge state the small polaron can either encase an electron or hole. The probability for conduction of small polarons depends strongly on the height and adiabicity of the reaction barrier, with larger and more diabatic barriers yielding slow conduction associated with either weak coupling or a large prerequisite rearrangement of the lattice during charge transport. To model these reactions, a first principle electron transfer (ET) method was developed to model the small polaron hopping between the edge-sharing octahedra sites in hematite ( e - polaron), goethite ( e - polaron), and annite ( h + polaron) bulk structures. The ET method is based on electronic structure methods (i.e., plane-wave Density Functional Theory) capable of performing calculations with periodic cells and large size systems efficiently while at the same time being accurate enough to be used in the estimation of the electron-transfer coupling matrix element, V AB , and the electron transfer transmission factor, κ el . The calculations confirmed the existence of small polarons in all three minerals, and the reactions were predicted to be strongly adiabatic. It was found that transfer of a hole in the octahedral layer of annite had an adiabatic barrier of 0.311 eV, and the transfer of an extra electron in hematite and goethite had adiabatic barriers of 0.242 eV and 0.232 eV respectively. The electronic coupling parameters, V AB , were found to be 0.188 eV, 0.196 eV, and 0.102 eV respectively for hematite, goethite, and annite. While similar bonding topologies pertain, the findings reveal the importance of subtle differences in local structure.
Impact of gender and race on expectations and outcomes in total knee arthroplasty

BACKGROUND Total joint arthroplasty is one of the most common surgeries performed in the United States with total knee arthroplasty (TKA) being one of the most successful surgeries for restoring function and diminishing pain. Even with the demonstrated success of TKA and a higher prevalence of arthritis and arthritis related disability among minorities, racial and gender disparity remains a constant issue in providing care for the adult reconstruction patient. AIM To assess the role of demographics and expectations on differences in perioperative patient reported outcomes (PRO) following TKA. METHODS One hundred and thirty-three patients scheduled for primary unilateral TKA secondary to moderate to severe osteoarthritis were enrolled in this two-institution prospective study. Validated PRO questionnaires were collected at four time points. Statistical analysis was conducted to determine the impact of gender, ethnic background and expectation surveys responses to assess PRO at these time points. RESULTS Females were associated with worse preoperative Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Scores (KOOS) for symptoms, pain, and activities of daily living. African Americans were associated with worse KOOS for pain, activities of daily living, and quality of life. Despite worse preoperative scores, no difference was noted in these categories between the groups postoperatively. Additionally, all pre-operative psychometric scales were equivalent across groups except Geriatric Depression scale, which was significantly different between groups within the Race and Age Group (P < 0.05). Conversely, Pain Catastrophizing Scale, was significantly different for all subscales and total score within Age Group (P < 0.05), and the Magnification, Helplessness subscales as well as the Total score were significantly different between groups for Race and Relationship Status (P < 0.01). CONCLUSION We conclude that female and African American patients have lower preoperative KOOS scores compared to white male patients. No postoperative differences in outcomes between these groups.
Hemispheric asymmetries in processing numerical meaning in arithmetic.

Abstract Hemispheric asymmetries in arithmetic have been hypothesized based on neuropsychological, developmental, and neuroimaging work. However, it has been challenging to separate asymmetries related to arithmetic specifically, from those associated general cognitive or linguistic processes. Here we attempt to experimentally isolate the processing of numerical meaning in arithmetic problems from language and memory retrieval by employing novel non-symbolic addition problems, where participants estimated the sum of two dot arrays and judged whether a probe dot array was the correct sum of the first two arrays. Furthermore, we experimentally manipulated which hemisphere receive the probe array first using a visual half-field paradigm while recording event-related potentials (ERP). We find that neural sensitivity to numerical meaning in arithmetic arises under left but not right visual field presentation during early and middle portions of the late positive complex (LPC, 400-800 ms). Furthermore, we find that subsequent accuracy for judgements of whether the probe is the correct sum is better under right visual field presentation than left, suggesting a left hemisphere advantage for integrating information for categorization or decision making related to arithmetic. Finally, neural signatures of operational momentum, or differential sensitivity to whether the probe was greater or less than the sum, occurred at a later portion of the LPC (800-1000 ms) and regardless of visual field of presentation, suggesting a temporal and functional dissociation between magnitude and ordinal processing in arithmetic. Together these results provide novel evidence for differences in timing and hemispheric lateralization for several cognitive processes involved in arithmetic thinking.
The Gcn5 complexes in Drosophila as a model for metazoa

Abstract The histone acetyltransferase Gcn5 is conserved throughout eukaryotes where it functions as part of large multi-subunit transcriptional coactivator complexes that stimulate gene expression. Here, we describe how studies in the model insect Drosophila melanogaster have provided insight into the essential roles played by Gcn5 in the development of multicellular organisms. We outline the composition and activity of the four different Gcn5 complexes in Drosophila: the Spt-Ada-Gcn5 Acetyltransferase (SAGA), Ada2a-containing (ATAC), Ada2/Gcn5/Ada3 transcription activator (ADA), and Chiffon Histone Acetyltransferase (CHAT) complexes. Whereas the SAGA and ADA complexes are also present in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, ATAC has only been identified in other metazoa such as humans, and the CHAT complex appears to be unique to insects. Each of these Gcn5 complexes is nucleated by unique Ada2 homologs or splice isoforms that share conserved N-terminal domains, and differ only in their C-terminal domains. We describe the common and specialized developmental functions of each Gcn5 complex based on phenotypic analysis of mutant flies. In addition, we outline how gene expression studies in mutant flies have shed light on the different biological roles of each complex. Together, these studies highlight the key role that Drosophila has played in understanding the expanded biological function of Gcn5 in multicellular eukaryotes.
Real-Time Optimal Control Strategy for Multienergy Complementary Microgrid System Based on Double-Layer Nondominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm

Because of the problems of low operation efficiency and poor energy management of multienergy input and output system with complex load demand and energy supply, this paper uses the double-layer nondominated sorting genetic algorithm to optimize the multienergy complementary microgrid system in real-time, allocating reasonably the output of each energy supply end and reducing the energy consumption of the system on the premise of meeting the demand of cooling, thermal and power load, so as to improve the economy of the whole system. According to the system load demand and operation mode, the first layer of this double-layer operation strategy calculates the power required by each node of the microgrid system to reduce the system loss. The second layer calculates the output of each equipment by using nondominated sorting genetic algorithm with various energy values calculated in the first layer as constraint conditions, considering the operation characteristics of various equipment and aiming at economy and environmental protection. In this paper, a typical model of energy input-output is established. This model combines with the operation control strategy suitable for multienergy complementary microgrid system, considers the operation mode and equipment characteristics of the system, and uses a double-layer nondominated sorting genetic algorithm to optimize the operation of each equipment in the multienergy complementary system in real time, so as to reduce the operation cost of the system.
Wie hat die COVID-19-Pandemie begonnen, und wie hat sie sich entwickelt?

Als im Januar 2020 aus Wuhan die ersten Nachrichten uber den Ausbruch eines neuen Coronavirus kamen, das Lungenentzundungen verursacht, war nicht klar, welche Auswirkungen das Virus auf die Bevolkerung und die Wirtschaft der ganzen Welt haben wurde. Trotz wiederholter Mahnungen von Gesundheitsorganisationen kamen Eindammungsmasnahmen vielerorts zu spat. Als die Fall- und Todeszahlen in den verschiedensten Landern in die Hohe gingen, verwandelte sich die weltweite Besorgnis in Angst.
Economic Optimization of Carbon Capture Processes Using Ionic Liquids: Toward Flexibility in Capture Rate and Feed Composition

Aprotic heterocyclic anion ionic liquids (AHA ILs) have received significant recent attention as potential absorbents for next-generation carbon capture processes. In this paper, we describe a rate...
Thin endometrial lining during frozen embryo cycles: a case-control study of risk factors and natural history

Objective: To identify predictors of thin endometrial lining in the first frozen embryo transfer cycles and to characterize the natural history of this condition over subsequent cycles. Design: Retrospective case-control study Conclusions: This study shows that prognosis after a diagnosis of thin endometrial lining is favorable. Lower weight and thinner fresh cycle lining are predictors of thin endometrial lining in FET cycles. Most importantly, women with a diagnosis of thin endometrial lining have similar live birth rates as those with adequate endometrial lining, although their time to achieve live birth is slightly longer.
Functional Behavioral Assessment Using the LERS Data Mining System—Strategies for Understanding Complex Physiological and Behavioral Patterns

Many individuals with mental retardation, autism, and other related disabilities lead lives that are significantly restricted because of problem behaviors such as self-injury and aggression. We processed two data sets, one describing heart rate patterns and the other describing the behavioral events of one subject diagnosed with severe mental retardation, visual impairments, and severe problem behavior. From these data sets the LERS data mining system induced certain and possible rule sets. In our research these rule sets were successfully used for interpretation, or, more specifically, to discover mechanisms of triggering specific physiological and behavioral patterns.
Effect of a Punica granatum enriched diet on immunocompetence in Rhinella marina.

Direct ingestion of plant materials has been shown to have immunomodulatory effects on a variety of herbivores. Studies have also shown that compounds ingested indirectly by predators through prey items can affect the general physiology of the ingesting organism. Relatively little data exists, however, concerning the modulation of a predator's immune system via compounds obtained indirectly through prey. In this study, we sought to determine if the immune-stimulating properties of Punica granatum (pomegranate) could be conveyed from a prey organism, Acheta domestica, to a predator, Rhinella marina, through diet specialization. Experimental crickets were fed a diet of agar supplemented with 10 mg/mL of lyophilized, powdered, whole pomegranate while control crickets were fed unadulterated agar. Experimental toads consumed a diet consisting of crickets fed the pomegranate-enriched diet, while control toads consumed a diet consisting of crickets fed the standard agar diet. Blood samples were taken weekly and leukocyte profiles and neutrophil phagocytic activity were determined for all toads over an 8-week period. Complement activity was measured at 6 weeks. Toads fed the pomegranate-enriched diet showed altered leukocyte profiles as evidenced by an increase in circulating eosinophil number and a decrease in the number of circulating lymphocytes, monocytes, and basophils as compared to controls, indicating an immunomodulatory effect of the pomegranate-enhanced diet. These results suggest that pomegranate-derived immunomodulatory compounds can be transferred from prey to predator, and suggests that the flora in the environment where insectivores forage could have a significant effect on the physiology of the animal. J. Exp. Zool. 321A: 316–323, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cytomegalovirus and Varicella–Zoster Virus Vaccines

Classical live-attenuated vaccines were developed several decades ago for two clinically important human herpesviruses, varicella-zoster virus and human cytomegalovirus. The varicella vaccine has been licensed for immunization of normal children in Japan, Korea, and the United States for a number of years. In contrast, live-attenuated cytomegalovirus has only been tested in a limited number of studies of organ transplant recipients and healthy adult volunteers, and has not yet been considered for licensure. A number of experimental cytomegalovirus vaccines have been developed using molecular biology and recombinant DNA technology, because of theoretical concerns about the long-term safety and effectiveness of the currently available live cytomegalovirus vaccines. Some of the same techniques are also being applied to varicella-zoster virus to develop improved vaccines that could supplement or replace the current varicella vaccine or provide protection against viral reactivation and zoster. The major emphasis of high-technology vaccine development has been on the viral glycoproteins because they are the targets of neutralizing antibody, and includes both recombinant protein subunit vaccines and live-recombinant virus vaccines. Other virion and nonstructural viral proteins are also being considered as immunogens for cytotoxic T-cell responses. Keywords: Adjuvant; Antigen; Live Vaccine; Neutralizing Antibody; Seropositive versus Seronegative; Structural versus Nonstructural Protein; Subunit Vaccine; Virion
Using the Image Exchange to Enhance Interdisciplinary Team Building in Child Welfare

A team building activity, the image exchange, was helpful to interdisciplinary teams in clarifying perceptions and opinions of participants about the roles of each discipline (child welfare, domestic violence, mental health, and substance abuse workers) at a five-day interdisciplinary training workshop. Discussion of team members’ perceptions and views provided opportunities to develop insights about misperceptions. Training in team development and role clarification provided a foundation for the development of effective interdisciplinary collaboration, which may improve interdisciplinary practice.
Toxicology and Carcinogenesis Studies of Two Grades of Pentachlorophenol in B6C3F1 Mice

Abstract Toxicology and carcinogenesis studies of pentachlorophenol (penta), a biocide used primarily as a wood preservative, were conducted by feeding diets containing a technical-grade composite or Dowicide EC-7 (a commercial grade with lower levels of contaminants) to groups of B6C3F1 mice. Based primarily on liver lesions (hepatocellular necrosis, degeneration, and cytomegaly) observed in 6-month studies, diets containing 100 or 200 ppm technical-grade pentachlorophenol or 100, 200, or 600 ppm EC-7 were fed to groups of 50 male and 50 female mice for 2 years. Control groups consisted of 35 animals. For the most part, mean body weights of mice exposed to technical-grade penta were comparable to those of controls. During the second year, the 600-ppm EC-7 female mice averaged 85% of the control body weights. Feed consumption by exposed mice was similar to that by controls. The average daily doses of penta were approximately 0, 17–18, 35, or 114–118 (EC-7) mg/kg. Survival of mice did not appear to be significantly affected by exposure to either technical penta or EC-7 at the doses used in these studies; survival of the control male mice (technical-grade) was comparatively low. Compound-related neoplasms were observed in three organs/systems: liver, adrenal gland medulla, and vascular endothelium. Dose-related increases of hepatocellular adenomas and of carcinomas were observed in male and female mice exposed to both technical penta and EC-7, although the increase was less marked in females exposed to technical penta. Pheochromocytomas of the adrenal gland in exposed male mice were significantly greater than those in controls for both technical penta and EC-7. These neoplasms were also increased in female mice exposed to EC-7 but not to technical penta. Hemangiosarcomas in the spleen and/or liver were increased in female mice that received technical penta and EC-7. The results of these studies show that both technical penta and Dowicide EC-7 are carcinogenic for mice, causing neoplasms in multiple organs/systems. In addition, the results suggest that the carcinogenic responses were due almost exclusively to penta itself, with possibly a minimal potentiating influence by the contaminants in the induction of liver neoplasms in male mice.
Severe Hyponatremia Associated with Thiazide Diuretic Use

Abstract Background Thiazide diuretics are commonly used as first-line antihypertensive agents. Hyponatremia is a reported, though uncommon, complication of thiazide use. Although the exact mechanism of thiazide-induced hyponatremia (TIH) is unclear, it can be a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. Case Report We report a 69-year-old man with generalized weakness beginning 2 weeks after starting hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ). Evaluation revealed a serum sodium level of 120 mmol/L. The patient was admitted and successfully treated with free water restriction and discontinuation of the HCTZ. Why should an emergency physician be aware of this? Hyponatremia is an uncommon complication of thiazide diuretic use, which frequently presents with nonspecific symptoms. Identification of TIH is crucial to prevent its potentially life-threatening complications.
Tissue oxygen saturation for the risk stratification of septic patients

Abstract Purpose Peripheral tissue oxygen saturation (St o 2) has shown promise as an early indicator of tissue hypoperfusion and as a risk stratification tool in various forms of shock. The purpose of this study was to determine if St o 2 would predict admission to an intensive (ICU) or progressive care unit in patients with early signs of sepsis. Methods In this prospective observational study, a rapid response team measured St o 2 levels in patients screening positive for sepsis. Using a logistic regression model, the value of St o 2 as a predictor for ICU admission within 72 hours of the initial assessment was determined. Results The 31 (47%) of 66 patients who required ICU admission within 72 hours of evaluation had a significantly lower St o 2 value (median, 78% vs 81%; P = .05). All patients with St o 2 less than 70% required ICU admission. A 1-point increase in St o 2 was associated with a 7% decrease in the odds of requiring ICU admission, and the area under the curve for St o 2 was 0.64 (0.51-0.77, P = .01). Conclusions Low St o 2 levels in patients screening positive for sepsis are associated with an increased risk of ICU admission, but their reliability as a predictor is rather low. An St o 2 below 70% might be an interesting cutoff value for further study.
The issue of structured coexistence of scientific and alternative medical systems: A comparison of east and west German legislation☆

Abstract Coexistence of modern scientific medicine with traditional or other alternative health care systems is a persisting reality not only in non-Western societies but also in highly industrialized East and West Germany. In this paper, after outlining the attitude of the National Socialist administration (1933–1945) towards this issue, the drug legislation of both East and West Germany is analyzed to assess the official status of alternative therapy in these two countries. While accepting “science” and “efficacy” as the only criteria for determining the kind of drug therapy their populations should be offered, the administrations of both East and West Germany have developed different and unique solutions for reconciling this orientation with the continued demand, by the population, for alternative drug therapy, as provided by homeopathy, anthroposophical healing, and botanical healing. It was found that drug legislation in both East and West Germany not only entails economic and public health considerations but, in addition, reflects socio-political realities and the two governments' attitudes towards a pluralism of world views in their countries.
USGS warns of increased rain‐induced landslide risks

Heavy rains in mid-December have brought moisture levels in parts of the San Francisco Bay area to the point of soil saturation and the midst of a potential landslide season that could continue through March, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The 10-county Bay area is just one of a number of regions across the United States where rain-induced landslides are posing a serious, and often increasing, risk.
Integrated economic and reliability planning

A multi-objective planning practice is discussed which facilitates an integrated reliability and economic planning, considering integration of renewable and distributed energy resources. Challenges in performing a multi-objective planning process is discussed which requires additional new analysis in the traditional planning process and enhanced forecasting and analysis tools. Past planning studies are discussed to identify needed additional analysis and new tools to perform an integrated reliability and economic planning study. The SMARTransmission and WECC PROMOD to PSLF Case Conversion projects are discussed as two planning studies, each implementing a different aspect of the multi-objective planning practice. In the SMARTransmission project, limited economic evaluation was added to study process to evaluate transmission alternatives to integrate over 56 GWs of wind in 11 states. In the WECC PROMOD to PSLF Case Conversion project a new analysis was added and experimented in the planning study process to iterate between reliability and economic studies to assess transmission system performance under different economic dispatch conditions. In this new analysis, production cost results for 10 selected hours from the 2020 planning case study were converted and supplemented to create 10 powerflow cases to perform feasibility analysis based on transmission constrained economic dispatch results. Challenges, alternative analysis tools, data preparation, result conversion process from production cost to power flow models, and sub-hourly production cost simualtion based on past projects are discussed to support implementation of multi-objective planning practice.
Structural and Dynamic Features Underlie the Switch of Ligand Binding Specificity in a Tiam1 PDZ Domain Mutant

The T-cell lymphoma invasion and metastasis (Tiam) family of proteins are guanine exchange factors (GEFs) for the Rho-family GTPase Rac1 crucial for cell-cell adhesion and cell migration. Deregulation of Tiam1/Rac1 signaling leads to various malignancies, including cardiovascular disease and cancer. Tiam proteins contain several protein-protein interaction domains, in particular a PDZ domain. Previously we found that the Tiam1 and Tiam2 PDZ domains had distinct binding specificities. Intriguingly, four residues in the ligand binding pocket were not conserved between the Tiam1 and Tiam2 PDZ domains. To test their importance in specificity, we engineered a quadruple mutant of the Tiam1 PDZ domain (PDZ-QM), where four residues in the Tiam1 PDZ domain were substituted for those in Tiam2. Remarkably, the Tiam1 PDZ-QM binding preference was changed to that of Tiam2. Here, we used equilibrium binding experiments and structural analyses to investigate the origins for this altered specificity. Ligand-free and -bound PDZ-QM crystal structures showed that enlarged P0 and P-2 ligand binding pockets and a favorable electrostatic interaction at the P-4 sub-pocket were critical for the changed specificity. Biochemical studies indicated that Tiam1 PDZ-QM was less thermally stable than the WT, while NMR studies showed that a set of residues explored multiple conformations. Backbone (15N) and side chain methyl (13C) NMR relaxation studies confirmed the dynamic features of the ligand free Tiam1 PDZ-QM domain. In the presence of ligand, however, PDZ-QM dynamics were dampened. These studies provide novel insights into the structural and dynamic basis for Tiam1 and Tiam2 PDZ domain specificity.
"It May Be Her Eggs But It's My Blood": Surrogates and Everyday Forms of Kinship in India

This ethnographic study of commercial gestational surrogacy in a small clinic in western India introduces the concept of “everyday forms of kinship”—kinship ties as the product of conscious everyday strategy, and, at times, as a vehicle for survival and/or resistance. The surrogates’ constructions of kinship as a daily process disrupt kinship theories that are based solely on biology. So, too, do they disrupt the patrilineal assumptions made in studies of Indian kinship. Kinship ties instead find their basis in shared bodily substances (blood and breast milk) and shared company, as well as in the labor of gestation and of giving birth. By emphasizing connections based on shared bodily substance and by de-emphasizing the ties the baby has with its genetic mother and the men involved in surrogacy (the genetic fathers and the surrogates’ husbands), the surrogates challenge established hierarchies in kin relationships—where genes and the male seed triumph above all. Simultaneously, by forming kinship ties with the baby, the intended mother, and other surrogates residing with them, surrogates in India form ties that cross boundaries based on class, caste and religion and sometimes even race and nation. By focusing on the notions of blood (shared substance) and sweat (labor) as basis for making kinship claims, this study both extends anthropological literature that emphasizes the non-procreative basis of kinship and feminist works that denaturalize kinship ties and make visible the labor involved in forming kinship ties and maintaining a family.
Optokinetic nystagmus as an objective indicator of binocular rivalry.

Abstract When each eye is separately stimulated by moving contours that generate antagonistic optokinetic nystagmus, vigorous phenomenal rivalry results, yet the nystagmus eye movements remain yoked and shift direction in accord with the eye that is phenomenally dominant. The feasibility of using this nystagmus rivalry as an indicator of phenomenal dominance was examined. The high correlation between phenomenal report and nystagmus rivalry, together with stochastic and stimulus similarities between nystagmus rivalry and conventional rivalry, support using nystagmus as an objective indicator.
The role of race in heart failure therapy.

Heart failure in blacks is a unique malady characterized by a different natural history, more worrisome prognosis, and potential variances in the response to current medical therapy for heart failure. The overwhelming burden of hypertension as a putative cause of left ventricular dysfunction identifies this illness. Although differences in the response to medical therapy have been described, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and β-blockers remain the most appropriate therapy. Certain genetic polymorphisms may exist that explain the observed differences.
Template-Directed Growth of (100)-Oriented Colloidal Crystals

This paper describes a simple and convenient procedure that allowed for the fabrication of large colloidal crystals with their (100) planes oriented parallel to the surfaces of supporting substrates. Such crystals were grown by templating against two-dimensional (2D) regular arrays of square pyramidal pits or V-shaped grooves etched in the surfaces of Si(100) substrates. The capability and feasibility of this approach have been demonstrated by crystallizing spherical colloids (>250 nm in diameter) into (100)-oriented crystals over areas as large as several square centimeters. We further demonstrated that inverse opals with (100) crystallographic orientation could be fabricated by templating liquid precursors (such as a UV-curable prepolymer) against these colloidal crystals. In addition to silicon templates whose fabrication involved extensive use of cleanroom facilities, multiple copies of polymer templates having similar functions were also generated by replica molding, a process that could be performed...
Multi-variate probability density functions with dynamics for cloud droplet activation in large-scale models: single column tests

Abstract. Successful simulation of cloud-aerosol interactions (indirect aerosol effects) in climate models requires relating grid-scale aerosol, dynamic, and thermodynamic fields to small-scale processes like aerosol activation. A turbulence and cloud parameterization, based on multi-variate probability density functions of sub-grid vertical velocity, temperature, and moisture, has been extended to treat aerosol activation. Multi-variate probability density functions with dynamics (MVD PDFs) offer a solution to the problem of the gap between the resolution of climate models and the scales relevant for aerosol activation and a means to overcome the limitations of diagnostic estimates of cloud droplet number concentration based only on aerosol concentration. Incorporated into the single-column version of GFDL AM3, the MVD PDFs successfully simulate cloud properties including precipitation for cumulus, stratocumulus, and cumulus-under-stratocumulus. The extension to treat aerosol activation predicts droplet number concentrations in good agreement with large eddy simulations (LES). The droplet number concentrations from the MVD PDFs match LES results more closely than diagnostic relationships between aerosol concentration and droplet concentration. In the single-column model simulations, as aerosol concentration increases, droplet concentration increases, precipitation decreases, but liquid water path can increase or decrease.
Congenital diaphragmatic hernia: experience in a single institution from 1978 through 1994.

Background. Congenital diaphragmatic hernia continues to be a difficult management problem. Essentially all information on the condition has been compiled in a retrospective manner due to the individualized care that each infant must undergo. We contribute a review of our patients to add to the current fund of knowledge and to assess our experience before and since the introduction of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in our institution. Methods. This is a review of records of infants with congenital diaphragmatic hernia treated from 1978 through 1994. Repair has generally been accomplished early with only one repair being accomplished with an infant placed on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation preoperatively. Results. Overall survival was 63%. Survival was 42% before extracorporeal membrane oxygenation becoming available in our region in 1986, and 75% afterward. Since 1986, 16 of 33 (48%) infants have required extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and 73% have survived. Conclusions. Overall survival in our series is comparable with that of other reported series. There appears to be an improvement in survival since the introduction of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Our present practice of early repair, and postrepair extracorporeal membrane oxygenation if needed, results in a survival rate comparable with that of currently available series reports regardless of the method of treatment reported.
Cycle Symmetry and its Causes, Cisco Group (Virgilian and Wolfcampian), Texas

ABSTRACT 181 transgressive-regressive cycles composed of nonmarine and marine carbonate and siliciclastic rocks of the Cisco Group on the Eastern Shelf, Texas, display complex characteristics at both hemicycle and full-cycle scales. They are delineated on the basis of successive changes of depositional environments, stratal boundary relations, and stratigraphic position. Transgressive and regressive stratigraphic environment gradients are defined as the magnitude of environmental shift divided by thickness for each hemicycle. They indicate the rates of lateral environmental shifts during transgression and regression. Cycle symmetry index is defined as the ratio between transgressive and regressive stratigraphic environment gradients. It provides a measure of stratigraphic response to controlli g processes. Most Cisco cycles are asymmetrical with steep transgressive and shallow regressive stratigraphic environment gradients, indicating cyclic but asymmetrical variations of major allogenic processes over a cycle interval. These systematic variations are delineated from climate-sensitive rock types, stratal thickness, and sedimentary features. The relative dominance of processes controlling accommodation (i.e., glacio-eustasy and basement subsidence) versus those controlling sedimentation (i.e., climate, upland sediment yield, and sediment supply at the depositional site) determines cycle symmetry. A formulated relation between cycle symmetry index (i.e., stratigraphic response) and rates of these processes demonstrates that transgressive sedimentation is controlled by sediment supply, whe eas regressive sedimentation is controlled by accommodation. This relation is potentially useful in quantitatively predicting stratigraphic responses to specific allogenic processes in cyclic sedimentation. Five Cisco cycle types defined by the type of component lithofacies display the stratigraphic response mainly to noncyclic allogenic and autogenic processes. The cycle types have varying magnitude, thickness , and symmetry. They also vary in lateral extent and in abundance. A process-response model of cyclic sedimentation of the Cisco Group on the Eastern Shelf is established. It emphasizes the interplay between autogenic and allogenic processes at the sub-cycle scale. Understanding interactions among glacio-eustasy, climate, shelf subsidence, sediment supply, and depositional dynamics during various stages of transgression and regression is central to a clearer comprehension of the observed variations in cycle characteristics.
An Architecture for the Management of GIS Data Files

Management of GIS data presents unique problems. These include the need to manage a wide range of differing applications ’ data formats, group files into meaningful organizations that are driven by geospatial concerns, provide lineage and version support, provide documentation of the nature of the data and other descriptive information, and keep track of relationships among data files and groups of data files. Current approaches to data management can provide partial solutions to these problems, but none is complete. We have developed a software architecture that addresses all levels of this problem. This architecture centers around a data model that is populated with metadata and extended with fuzzy set theory notation. Fuzzy set theory allowed us to solve data ambiguity problems and to develop an object-oriented framework that served as the basis for a proof-of-concept prototype. In addition, we developed file system organizations, computer network communications strategies and the mechanics of basic system operation so that the architecture provides a blueprint for a new type of software.
Hydrogen storage for fuel cell vehicles

The concerns over diminishing resources and the environmental impact of burning fossil fuels have focused attention on the development of alternative and sustainable energy sources for transportation applications. In this context, hydrogen is an attractive option to replace current hydrocarbon-based systems. A major obstacle for the development of hydrogen powered fuel cell vehicles is the lack of safe, light weight and energy efficient means for on-board hydrogen storage. During the last fifteen years, significant effort has been made to develop effective hydrogen storage methods, including hydrogen tank, sorbents and metal/chemical hydrides. In the present article, we concisely review the current status of each on-board hydrogen storage technology, along with its advantages and disadvantages, and offer a perspective for future developments.
An Augmented Gimballess Inertial Navigation System

A general mechanization in vehicular coordinates of a Gimballess Inertial System for space navigation is considered. The system is both nonlinear and multiloop with coupling between the loops. Linearized system error equations for the position errors are obtained and they are found to be unstable. An error damping method is proposed and it is shown that damping can be achieved. The method utilizes appropriate damping circuits and auxiliary information obtained by means of a sun tracker.
The topography of some anionic sites at the surfaces of fixed ehrlich ascites tumour cells

The distribution of positively charged, colloidal iron hydroxide particles to the surfaces of glutaraldehyde-fixed Ehrlich ascites tumour cells, was studied in 700A thick sections. After incubation with neuraminidase and/or ribonuclease, and fixation, cells were also reacted with particles. It was shown that the numbers of bound particles were significantly reduced by enzyme treatment, which had previously been shown to reduce the densities of anionic sites at the cell surfaces. Statistical analyses showed that in the controls and ribonuclease-treated cells, the particles were adsorbed in surface locations following a Poisson distribution. Following neuraminidase treatment, the particles were arranged in clusters, but the clusters themselves were arranged in a Poisson distribution. The data are tentatively interpreted as indicating the presence of different sized neuraminidase- and ribonuclease-susceptible zones at the cell surface, having a higher than average density of anionic sites.
The multivariate metamodel in queuing system simulation

Abstract This paper investigates the concept of a multiple-response metamodel in the simulation of queuing systems, as a means of establishing simplified, functional relationships with which inferences may be made to the real-world system of interest. Simulation metamodels were developed for two queuing systems: the M/M/s queue and a time-shared CPU queue. Results show that the multivariate simulation metamodel performed well in predicting values for the true performance characteristics and served as an aid to understanding the complex relationships underlying the real-world systems.
Haemolytic activity in an Antarctic bryozoan

Five species of Antarctic bryozoans were tested for haemolytic activity against erythrocytes derived from sheep, man, mouse and dog. Extracts from one bryozoan species, Carbasea curva, caused 60 and 50% lysis of cells from man and dog, respectively. The chemical activity detected may provide a partial explanation for the success of this weakly calcified species in the Antarctic environment.
Additional NEDT requirement to constrain noise correlations of polar-orbiting microwave sounders

The current on-orbit polar-orbiting microwave sounder design (ATMS) shows spatially-correlated noise in brightness temperature measurements, manifested as cross-track (along-scan) striping. Current microwave radiometric sensitivity, or noise-equivalent delta temperature (NEDT), requirements do not fully address or constrain these excess noise characteristics in the sensor measurements. This paper proposes augmenting the current instrument NEDT requirement with an additional, along-track NEDT requirement. The additional requirement, if met, could lead to improved overall sensor performance impact in weather models through testable criteria in sensor component acquisition. An along-track NEDT requirement at the sensor system level is verifiable using data collected with existing sensor test procedures and would not overly constrain hardware implementation. This paper provides the necessary background and quantifies the proposed new requirement.