cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A redox economical synthesis of bioactive 6,12-guaianolides.

Syntheses of two 6,12-guaianolide analogs are reported within. The scope of the tandem allylboration/lactonization chemistry is expanded to provide a functionalized allene-yne-containing α-methylene butyrolactone that undergoes a Rh(I)-catalyzed cyclocarbonylation reaction to afford a 5–7–5 ring system. The resulting cycloadducts bear a structural resemblance to other NF-κB inhibitors such as cumambrin A and indeed were shown to inhibit NF-κB signaling and cancer cell growth.
THE IMPORTANCE OF INPUT DATA IN SECOND LANGUAGE ACQUISITION STUDIES

In investigating second language acquisition, most writers have concentrated on the speech production of their subjects, most frequently on the order of acquisition of a set of morphemes. Such studies are useful in descriptive terms especially if they consider acquisition of both form and function, but they leave us with many unanswered questions regarding the acquisition process. The following paper discusses the relationship between speech directed to the learner and his speech production, one of several areas which require further investigation.
Single Wall Carbon Nanotubes Filled with Metallocenes: a First Example of Non-Fullerene Peapods

We report the synthesis and analysis of metallocenes (ferrocene, chromocene, ruthenocene, vanadocene, tungstenocene-dihydride) encapsulated in single wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs). In the case of ferrocene, efficient filling of the SWNTs was accomplished from both the liquid and the vapor phase. The other two metallocenes were filled from the vapor phase. High resolution transmission electron microscopy reveals single molecular chains of metallocenes inside SWNTs. Molecules move under the electron beam in the SWNTs indicating the absence of strong chemical bonds between each other and the SWNT wall. Their movement freezes after short illumination as a result of irradiation damage. Energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry confirms the presence of iron, chromium, ruthenium, vanadium and tungsten.
Craniofacial measurements in a home-based public health study

Colleagues in nursing were puzzled when I told them I would be trained by an anthropologist to take anthropometric craniofacial measurements. As it turned out my new colleagues in anthropology were also surprised to find how well my training in public health nursing facilitated the successful collection of data. Young children are notoriously difficult subjects for the anthropometrist, yet the procedures used were, in kind, no different from what nurses routinely ask of a child. Thus, my previous experience as a public health nurse specializing in maternal child health allowed me to develop several useful strategies that resulted in successful collection of anthropometric data from over 1300 infants, with follow-up of some at one year and three years of age. As so often, cross-disciplinary approaches produce useful results, in this case the synthesis of an anthropometric methodology and a public health nurse's understanding of children and mothers.
Remagnetization of the Coast Range ophiolite at Stanley Mountain, California, during accretion near 10°N paleolatitude

Paleomagnetic data are presented for a 50-m-thick sequence of Oxfordian to Tithonian sedimentary rocks conformably overlying Upper Jurassic pillow basalt within the Coast Range ophiolite at Stanley Mountain, California. These new data are similar in direction and polarity to previously published paleomagnetic data for the pillow basalt. The Jurassic sedimentary rocks were deposited during a mixed-polarity interval of the geomagnetic field, and uniformity of the remanent magnetization within the entire section of pillow basalt and sedimentary rocks indicates later remagnetization. Remagnetization of the Coast Range ophiolite is interpreted to have occurred during accretion to the continental margin, possibly by burial and low-temperature alteration related to this event. Similar paleolatitudes calculated for the ophiolite (11° ±3°) and for mid-Cretaceous sedimentary rocks of the Stanley Mountain terrane at Figueroa Mountain (6° ±5°) are consistent with remagnetization of the ophiolite at low paleo-latitudes. Uniform-polarity directions for other remnants of ophiolite in southern California and elsewhere along the Pacific coast imply that these rocks were also overprinted, and their magnetic inclinations suggest remagnetization at low paleolatitudes as well. The Coast Range ophiolite at Stanley Mountain is thus inferred to have been remagnetized along the North American margin near 10°N paleolatitude between earliest and mid-Cretaceous time and subsequently transported northward by strike-slip faulting related to relative motions between the Farallon, Kula, Pacific, and North American plates.
Cultural Competence in Diabetes Mellitus Care: An Urgent Need

Abstract Background: Multicultural societies exist worldwide. Two important challenges can be appreciated in this scenario. Minority populations, due to a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors, have a particularly high risk for developing type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). In addition, the quality of health care provided to minority populations, including that for DM, has lagged behind that provided to the white population. Because multiple medical, social, and cultural factors influence the development and progression of type 2 DM, management of patients becomes even more challenging if health care providers cannot identify and address the many contributing factors. Objective: The objective of this article was to raise awareness about the most common social and cultural factors that may influence the development of type 2 DM, progression of the disease, and adherence to treatment plans in patients from culturally diverse populations. Methods: A PubMed search of English-language articles published primarily between 1996 and 2006 was conductedusing the search terms Latino, Hispanic, culture, and diabetes, and a list of social and cultural factors associated with type 2 DM was created based on relevant articles and on the author's expertise and experience in the Latino Diabetes Initiative at the Joslin Diabetes Center. Results: There is increasing evidence that social and cultural factors such as body image, educational level, fears, general family integration and support, health literary, language, myths, and nutritional preferences, among others, may affect the success of the physician patient relationship and influence patients' adherence to treatment. Specific strategies to help clinicians remember to address multiple factors in the day-to-day management of patients with type 2 DM who are from culturally diverse populations include asking questions about patients' personal goals, ascertaining what behaviors they have adopted from mainstream culture, understanding how family ties may affect DM care and prevention, and being aware of patients' educational level when implementing any educational activity. Conclusions: The standards of DM care apply to every individual with this disease and should continue to be the core of every clinicians practice. However, improving health care providers' cultural competence may help improve the quality of care provided to minority groups and may ultimately reduce health care disparities. Increased cultural competence may also improve patient-provider trust and communication, as well as help patients adhere to prevention and treatment plans.
On the Ground State of String Theory(

The following results are established for the open string: 1) The ground state of the open string has energy 0 in the standard conventions of the method of the operator field. 2) There is no tachyon in the physical spectrum of the theory. 3) The lowest single-particle states correspond to a massless vector state at leveln=1 and a massive spin-2 particle of massM=2MPlanck at leveln=2.
Closing Time: Assessing the Iranian Threat to the Strait of Hormuz

How might Iran retaliate in the aftermath of a limited Israeli or U.S. strike? The most economically devastating of Iran's potential responses would be closure of the Strait of Hormuz. According to...
Comparison of techniques for enzyme immobilization on silicon supports

Abstract Enzyme immobilization onto silicon substrates has been investigated by five different coupling procedures. The methods included covalent coupling either through a metal link reagent or silane reagents containing pendant amino or epoxide linkers, an entrapment technique using a thin layer of gelatin, or an adsorption technique using poly- l -lysine. These immobilization procedures were evaluated using glucose oxidase and a simple spectrophotometric method employing Fenton’s reagent. Retention of enzyme activity and surface loading were assessed. The immobilization techniques were also evaluated by electron microscopy to characterize the evenness of the surface coatings. All of the covalent coupling procedures led to surface loadings, approaching 1 pmol mm −2 ; however, the surfaces appeared irregular on a microscopic scale. The poly- l -lysine adsorption technique provided the smoothest surface. With the exception of the entrapment technique, all immobilization procedures provided immobilized enzyme that retained >75% activity after several weeks of storage.
DISCRIMINATORY ANALYSIS OF URBAN GROWTH PATTERNS IN ONTARIO AND QUEBEC, 1951–19611

ABSTRACT In urban research to date, the distinguishing characteristics of growing as opposed to stable or declining urban communities have not been identified clearly. In this study, a statistical discrimination is made between those cities in Ontario and Quebec which experienced absolute upward shifts in population over the decade 1951–61, and those which experienced either absolute or relative downward shifts. The discrimination is based on a number of selected social, demographic, economic, and locational variables. In addition, by focussing upon the provinces of Ontario and Quebec which are known to have contrasting cultures and economies, the study seeks to determine whether these regional differences are reflected in the relative growth characteristics of the cities. Shifts upward and downward for groups of cities were distinguished, but the regional contrasts overshadowed the generalized patterns of growth or decline to the end that it is clear that general studies of urban growth and decline will ...
Validating cardiac echo diagnosis through video similarity

Video data is increasingly being used in medical diagnosis. Due to the quality of the video and the complexities of underlying motion captured, it is difficult for an in-experienced physician/radiologist to describe motion abnormalities in a crisp way, leading to possible errors in diagnosis. In this paper, we present a method of capturing video similarity and its use for diagnosis verification during decision support. Specifically, we describe the motion information in videos using average velocity curves. Second-order motion statistics are extracted from average velocity curves and serve as features for computing video similarity. Given a new video sample already labeled with a diagnosis, a neighborhood of similar videos is assembled from the training set and their diagnosis labels are used to verify the diagnosis.
The festival of democracy: Media and elections in Bangladesh

This paper considers the uses of television in the June 1996 elections of Bangladesh. It is predicated on the assumption that the reach of television in a poor country like Bangladesh is much greater than statistics on access and ownership suggest. Historically, state‐owned television has been perceived as a tool for state‐sponsored propaganda. Yet the interim caretaker government actively utilized television and other media as fora for the construction and promotion of the rights of citizens (especially women) in a civil society. The paper suggests that television might emerge as a possible space for the expansion of public sphere discourse.
Dissection of the critical binding determinants of cellular retinoic acid binding protein II by mutagenesis and fluorescence binding assay

The binding of retinoic acid to mutants of Cellular Retinoic Acid Binding Protein II (CRABPII) was evaluated to better understand the importance of the direct protein/ligand interactions. The important role of Arg111 for the correct structure and function of the protein was verified and other residues that directly affect retinoic acid binding have been identified. Furthermore, retinoic acid binding to CRABPII mutants that lack all previously identified interacting amino acids was rescued by providing a carboxylic acid dimer partner in the form of a Glu residue.
Improvement in the Activation Efficiency of Implanted Si in GaAs using Oxygen Plasma Pretreatment

We have investigated the effect of GaAs surface conditions prior to plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition of a silicon nitride cap on the activation efficiency of implanted Si in GaAs. The oxygen plasma treatment improved the activation efficiency of implanted Si by ∼35% over (1:10) NH4OH:H2O treatment. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis of the oxygen plasma treated GaAs surface indicated the formation of ∼25A thick oxide layer consisting of Ga2O3, As2O3, As2O5 and elemental As. During the activation anneal, the arsenic-containing oxides react with the GaAs substrate to form Ga2O3 and elemental As. The presence of excess As between the GaAs and the nitride cap film increases the probability that the implanted Si incorporates in the Ga sites over the As sites, and thereby improves the activation efficiency. This surface-related mechanism suggests that the variation in activation efficiency is mostly attributed to variation in surface conditions, and may explain the wide variety of reported values of activation efficiency.
Regulation of poly(A) site choice of several yeast mRNAs

Several yeast genes produce multiple transcripts with different 3'-ends. Of these, four genes are known to produce truncated transcripts that end within the coding sequence of longer transcripts: CBP1 , AEP2 / ATP13 , RNA14 and SIR1 . It has been shown that the level of the truncated CBP1 transcript increases during the switch to respiratory growth while that of the full-length transcript decreases. To determine whether this phenomenon is unique to CBP1 , northern analysis was used to determine whether the levels of other truncated transcripts are regulated similarly by carbon source. The levels of the shortest transcripts of AEP2 / ATP13 and RNA14 increased during respiration while the shortest SIR1 transcript remained constant. However, two longer SIR1 transcripts were regulated reciprocally by carbon source. Mapping the 3'-ends of each transcript by sequencing partial cDNA clones revealed multiple 3'-ends for each transcript. Examination of the sequences surrounding the 3'-ends of the induced transcripts failed to identify a consensus sequence but did reveal weak putative 3'-end formation signals in all of the transcripts. Similarly, no consensus sequence was found when the sequences surrounding the 3'-ends of the longest transcripts were compared, but again weak putative 3'-end formation signals were identified. These data are suggestive of carbon source regulation of alternative poly(A) site choice in yeast.
Suicide attempts and associated factors in Newfoundland and Labrador, 1998-2000.

Results: A total of 978 patients who were hospitalized owing to suicide attempts were identified for 1998–2000, giving an overall IR of 68.7 per 100 000 person-years (P-Y). The age-specific rate for people aged 15 to 19 years was much greater, at 143.0 per 100 000 P-Y. The overall female-to-male ratio was 1.3, with an attempted suicide rate of 76.1 per 100 000 P-Y for female patients and 60.3 per 100 000 P-Y for male patients (P = 0.001). Labrador (210.2 per 100 000 P-Y), a region with a high Aboriginal population, had a higher rate of suicide attempts, compared with the island portion of the province (59.0 per 100 000 P-Y) (P < 0.001). More than 70% of hospitalizations were associated with psychiatric diagnosis. Poisoning was the most frequent method of attempting suicide. Higher IRs of suicide attempts were found among people who were divorced or separated and among those who were less educated (P < 0.001). Conclusions: Suicide attempt represents a significant public health concern in the province, particularly in Labrador. An increased risk of suicide attempts was associated with single status, female sex, younger age (teen or young adult), and low educational level during the index attempt. Further research is needed to explicate these findings and increase our understanding of attempted suicide.
Implementation of Robots Competition Into a Freshman Level Course

This paper presents the design and implementation of the 6 week-long robotics competition project at Grand Valley State University, MI. This particular course is named as “EGR-101” and this course is the first engineering course that all freshmen are required to take. Described are the infrastructure used to run the competition, course topics, the educational outcomes, and student responsibilities that make this competition an excellent opportunity for freshman student educational growth without too much load for students. This robot competition provides a foundation for students to experience the first real design process while working on the team-based project that simulates the real industrial project. With faculty supervision, the students have full responsibilities for developing the initial concepts, manufacturing a robot and competing at the competition. Each semester, a new set of the competition that results in the development of new robots. Also, methods to improve the competition will be presented and discussed. The key student learning possibilities that are presented in the paper include: a) team-based learning; b) communication skills; c) leadership skills; d) organization and management skills; e) manufacturing skills. Four examples of real competition are presented and discussed in the paper include: a) catching the falling balls competition,; b) air-hockey competition; c) mars rock competition; d) robot world cup competition.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Inhibition of mutant p53 expression and growth of DMS-153 small cell lung carcinoma by antagonists of growth hormone-releasing hormone and bombesin

We investigated the effects of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) antagonists, JV-1-65 and JV-1-63, and bombesin/gastrin-releasing peptide (BN/GRP) antagonist RC-3940-II on DMS-153 human small cell lung carcinoma xenografted into nude mice. Treatment with 10 microg/day JV-1-65 or RC-3940-II decreased tumor volume by 28% (P CCC [Pro]. Combination of JV-1-65 and RC-3940-II decreased the levels of mutant p53 protein by 42% (P < 0.01) compared with controls. JV-1-65, JV-1-63, and RC-3940-II, given singly, reduced mutant p53 protein expression by 18-24% (P < 0.05). Serum insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-I levels were diminished in animals receiving GHRH antagonists. mRNA levels for IGF-II, IGF receptor-I, GRP receptor, and EGF receptor in tumors were significantly decreased by combined treatment with JV-1-65 and RC-3940-II. DMS-153 tumors expressed mRNAs for GHRH and GHRH receptor splice variants 1 and 2, suggesting that GHRH could be an autocrine growth factor. Proliferation of DMS-153 cells in vitro was stimulated by GRP and IGF-II and inhibited by JV-1-65. This study indicates that GHRH antagonists and BN/GRP antagonist inhibit the growth of DMS-153 small cell lung carcinoma concomitantly with the expression of mutant Tp53, which might uncouple the signal transduction pathways for cell growth stimulation.
Preparation of (η5‐(S)‐2‐(4‐Methylethyl)‐Oxazolinylcyclopentadienyl)‐(η4‐Tetraphenylcyclo‐Butadiene)cobalt

(eta5-Carbomethoxycyclopentadienyl)-(eta4-tetraphenylcyclobutadiene)cobalt Sodium cyclopentadienide Chloro(triphenylphosphine)cobalt(I) Diphenylacetylene Lithium iodide 2,4,6-Collidine Oxalyl chloride N,N-Dimethylformamide (S)-Valinol Triethylamine Methanesulfonyl chloride Keywords: ((methylethyl)oxyazolinylcyclopentadienyl)-(tetracyclobutadiene)cobalt; nucleophilic conditions; one-pot procedure; palladium catalyst; enantiopure compounds; chiral ligands; cobalt complexes; alkylations; organozinc reagents; waste disposal
Promises, challenges and future directions of μCCAs

Micro-cell culture analogs (μCCAs) are a class of in vitro tissue analogs that combine multiple organ analogs on one microfluidic platform in physiologically correct volume ratios. The microfluidic platform also provides fluid flow rates and substance residence times close to those present in the human body. Several advantages arise from the microfluidic format that can be exploited for realistic simulations of drug absorption, metabolism and action. We envision that, together with theoretical modeling, μCCAs may produce reliable predictions of the efficacy of newly developed drugs. Advantages, challenges, and future directions of μCCAs are discussed and examples of systems are provided.
A general model of local competition for space

Local competition for space across a wide array of taxa typically involves three mechanisms that we denote here as expansion (spreading into unoccupied habitat), lottery (replacing dead competitors), and overgrowth (encroaching on competitors along zones of contact). By formulating and analysing a simple, general model incorporating these features, we identify ecological conditions and life-history features that lead to stable coexistence or competitive exclusion (with or without initial-condition dependence) and gain insight by linking these to case studies in the literature. We demonstrate the importance of contact inhibition, a little-studied feature of overgrowth, and we show how life-history tradeoffs may influence and be influenced by local competition for space. The general model we present can help indicate whether local interactions are sufficient to explain patterns of coexistence or exclusion and can serve as the foundation for more specific, realistic models of spatial competition.
A global MINLP optimization algorithm for the synthesis of heat exchanger networks with no stream splits

In this paper a global optimization algorithm is presented to rigorously solve the MINLP model by Yee and Grossmann (1990) for the synthesis of heat exchanger networks under the simplifying assumptions of linear area cost, arithmetic mean temperature difference driving forces and no stream splitting. The proposed approach relies on the use of two new different sets of convex underestimators for the heat transfer area. A thermodynamic analysis is used to derive the first set of analytical linear and nonlinear convex underestimators as well as variable bounds and bounds contraction relationships. The second set of convex underestimators is generated by a relaxation of the heat transport equation through the introduction of a new variable, and an inequality that contains a nonconvex term that is subsequently replaced by its concave envelope. Based on these new underestimator functions, the original nonconvex MINLP is replaced by a convex MINLP that predicts tight lower bounds to the global optimum, and which is used in a hybrid branch and bound/outer-approximation search method. Application of the proposed ideas, and the algorithm are illustrated with several numerical examples.
C4NP technology: Manufacturability, yields and reliability

As a part of IBM movement from Pb-rich solders to Pb-free solder, a new low cost process has been developed to deposit the solder to a capture, or under bump metal (UBM) pad, with Suss MicroTech Inc as the equipment partner. The controlled collapsed chip connection new process (C4NP) has moved, over the last 2 years, from development into manufacturing for 300 mm wafers. During this transition, a great number of process improvements have resulted in high fabrication yields. Manufacturing robustness has been achieved by clearly identifying the processes which affect the C4 structural integrity. The solder composition has been optimized to improve its mechanical properties as well as low alpha emission rate requirement. Sector partitioning methodology was used to obtain root cause for various defects which then, through replication studies, were confirmed. Key process improvements in the capture pad build, mold fabrication, and mold fill tool have been accomplished as the process has matured. Thermal undercut was identified as a mechanism of Cu seed consumption when no top Cu was available on top of the Ni UBM. C4NP technology can produce yields comparable to that of electroplated C4 Bumps. Yield learning model shows a 15% defect reduction per month since the start of the C4NP program. Technology qualification for 300 mm wafers with 200um and 150 um pitch Pb-free C4 bumps has been successfully completed.
Implementation of a Syndromic Surveillance Pilot Program in Selected Cattle Markets in Texas, USA

Syndromic surveillance of livestock animals at points of concentration, such as livestock markets, has the potential to provide early detection of endemic, zoonotic, transboundary, environmental, and newly emerging animal diseases and to identify animal health trends. We describe the design and implementation of a syndromic surveillance program in selected cattle markets in Texas, USA. The project successfully demonstrated the feasibility of having trained livestock inspectors document the number of cattle observed and the number displaying clinical signs/syndromes. Weekly analysis of the syndrome data provided useful information on animal health trends.
Effects of suburban development on runoff generation in the Croton River basin, New York, USA

The effects of impervious area, septic leach-field effluent, and a riparian wetland on runoff generation were studied in three small (0.38‐0.56 km 2 ) headwater catchments that represent a range of suburban development (high density residential, medium density residential, and undeveloped) within the Croton River basin, 70 km north of New York City. Precipitation, stream discharge, and groundwater levels were monitored at 10‐30 min intervals for 1 year, and stream water and groundwater samples were collected biweekly for d 18 O, NO3 , and SO4K analysis for more than 2 years during an overlapping period in 2000‐2002. Data from 27 storms confirmed that peak magnitudes increased and recession time decreased with increasing development, but lags in peak arrival and peak discharge/mean discharge were greatest in the medium density residential catchment, which contains a wetland in which storm runoff is retained before entering the stream. Baseflow during a dry period from Aug. 2001‐Feb. 2002 was greatest in the high-density residential catchment, presumably from the discharge of septic effluent through the shallow groundwater system and into the stream. In contrast, moderate flows during a wet period from Mar.‐Aug. 2002 were greatest in the undeveloped catchment, possibly as a result of greater subsurface storage or greater hydraulic conductivity at this site. The mean residence time of baseflow was about 30 weeks at all three catchments, indicating that human influence was insufficient to greatly affect the groundwater recharge and discharge properties that determine catchment residence time. These results suggest that while suburban development and its associated impervious surfaces and storm drains accelerate the transport of storm runoff into streams, the combined effects of remnant natural landscape features such as wetlands and human alterations such as deep groundwater supply and septic systems can change the expected effects of human development on storm runoff and groundwater recharge. q 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
The Burden Of Identity: Responding To Product Boycotts In The Middle East

Drawing from four different case studies of multinational corporations in the Middle East, we present a framework for understanding the phenomenon of product boycotts driven by socio-political reasons. We present three sets of actions that trigger boycott calls: government actions, corporate actions, and individual actions. The strategies used by boycott organizers to generate awareness for their campaign and to manage media usage to target desired audiences are also discussed. We review a number of strategies available to multinationals to respond to boycott calls.
The ATPase activity of MCM2-7 is dispensable for pre-RC assembly but is required for DNA unwinding.

Eukaryotes have six minichromosome maintenance (MCM) proteins that are essential for DNA replication. The contribution of ATPase activity of MCM complexes to their function in replication is poorly understood. We have established a cell-free system competent for replication in which all MCM proteins are supplied by purified recombinant Xenopus MCM complexes. Recombinant MCM2–7 complex was able to assemble onto chromatin, load Cdc45 onto chromatin, and restore DNA replication in MCM-depleted extracts. Using mutational analysis in the Walker A motif of MCM6 and MCM7 of MCM2–7, we show that ATP binding and/or hydrolysis by MCM proteins is dispensable for chromatin loading and pre-replicative complex (pre-RC) assembly, but is required for origin unwinding during DNA replication. Moreover, this ATPase-deficient mutant complex did not support DNA replication in MCM-depleted extracts. Altogether, these results both demonstrate the ability of recombinant MCM proteins to perform all replication roles of MCM complexes, and further support the model that MCM2–7 is the replicative helicase. These data establish that mutations affecting the ATPase activity of the MCM complex uncouple its role in pre-RC assembly from DNA replication.
hnRNP A1 and secondary structure coordinate alternative splicing of Mag.

Myelin-associated glycoprotein (MAG) is a major component of myelin in the vertebratecentral nervous system. MAG is present in the periaxonal region of the myelin structure, where it interacts with neuronal proteins to inhibit axon outgrowth and protect neurons from degeneration. Two alternatively spliced isoforms of Mag mRNA have been identified. The mRNA encoding the shorter isoform, known as S-MAG, contains a termination codon in exon 12, while the mRNA encoding the longer isoform, known as L-MAG, skips exon 12 and produces a protein with a longer C-terminal region. L-MAG is required in the central nervous system. How inclusion of Mag exon 12 is regulated is not clear. In a previous study, we showed that heteronuclear ribonucleoprotein A1 (hnRNP A1) contributes to Mag exon 12 skipping. Here, we show that hnRNP A1 interacts with an element that overlaps the 5 ′ splice site of Mag exon 12. The element has a reduced ability to interact with the U1 snRNP compared with a mutant that improves the splice site consensus. An evolutionarily conserved secondary structure is present surrounding the element. The structure modulates interaction with both hnRNP A1 and U1. Analysis of splice isoforms produced from a series of reporter constructs demonstrates that the hnRNP A1-binding site and the secondary structure both contribute to exclusion of Mag exon 12.
Comparison of polyphenol interactions with polyvinylpolypyrrolidone and haze-active protein

Model system experiments were carried out to determine if the binding of haze-active (HA) polyphenols to polyvinylpolypyrrolidone (PVPP) resembles the binding of HA polyphenols to HA proteins. Gall...
Measuring Access to Information and Technology: Environmental Factors Affecting Persons With Neurologic Disorders.

Abstract Objective To develop and validate a patient-reported measure of access to information and technology (AIT) for persons with spinal cord injury, stroke, or traumatic brain injury. Design A mixed-methods approach was used to develop items, refine them through cognitive interviews, and evaluate their psychometric properties. Item responses were evaluated with the Rasch rating scale model. Correlational and analysis-of-variance methods were used to evaluate construct validity. Setting Community-dwelling individuals participated in telephone interviews or traveled to the academic medical centers where this research took place. Participants Individuals with a diagnosis of spinal cord injury, stroke, or traumatic brain injury (aged ≥18y, English speaking) participated in cognitive interviews (n=12 persons), field testing of the items (n=305 persons), and validation testing of the final set of items (n=604 persons). Interventions Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures A set of items to measure AIT for people with disabilities. Results A user-friendly multimedia touchscreen was used for self-administration of the items. A 23-item AIT measure demonstrated good evidence of internal consistency reliability, and content and construct validity. Conclusions This new AIT measure will enable researchers and clinicians to determine to what extent environmental factors influence health outcomes and social participation in people with disabilities. The AIT measure could also provide disability advocates with more specific and detailed information about environmental factors to lobby for elimination of barriers.
Co-Occurrence of Natal Teeth With Rapidly Involuting Congenital Hemangioma: A Case Report

We present in this report a case of an infant girl who was born with natal teeth along with an ulcerated rapidly involuting congenital hemangioma (RICH) on her thigh. RICH is a benign vascular tumor that is more common than other congenital hemangioma subtypes. Natal teeth are a birth anomaly that occurs in isolated form or in association with different syndromes like Ellis-van Creveld, Pierre Robin, Soto and Hallerman-Streiff. We have performed an intensive literature search to determine if there is a link between natal teeth and RICH, but no article has described any association thus far. It remains unclear whether this is a mere coincidence or whether there are common genetic factors that play a role in benign tumor growth and eruption of premature teeth. Further reports on the co-occurrence may shed light on possible common risk factors contributing to natal teeth and congenital hemangioma. J Med Cases. 2016;7(4):120-122 doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.14740/jmc2433w
The annular flow electrothermal ramjet

The annular flow, electrothermal, plug ramjet is examined as a possible means of achieving rapid projectile acceleration to velocities for such applications as direct launch of spacebound payloads. The performance of this ramjet operating with hydrogen propellant is examined for cases where this working fluid is treated: (1) as a perfect gas, and (2) as a gas that is allowed to dissociate and ionize and then recombine with finite reaction rates in the nozzle. Performance results for these cases are compared to the performance of a conventional ramjet operating with perfect gas hydrogen propellant. The performance of the conventional ramjet is superior to that of the annular flow, electrothermal ramjet. However, it is argued that the mechanical complexities associated with conventional ramjet operation are difficult to attain, and for this reason the annular flow, electrothermal ramjet is more desirable as a launch system. Models are presented which describe both electrothermal plug ramjet and conventional ramjet operation, and it is shown that for a given flight velocity there is a rate of heat addition per unit propellant mass for which ramjet operation is optimized.
Comparative Structural Dynamic Analysis of G Proteins

G proteins are molecular switches that participate in a multitude of essential cellular processes ranging from movement and division to differentiation and neuronal activity. These ubiquitous GTPases hydrolyze GTP to GDP with associated conformational changes that modulate affinity for specific protein binding partners. There are two major G protein superfamilies: small Ras-like GTPases and larger heterotrimeric G proteins. Although they contain an analogous nucleotide binding domain, the detailed mechanisms by which these structurally and functionally diverse superfamilies operate remain unclear. Here we compare and contrast the structural dynamic mechanisms of Ras and transducin using conventional molecular dynamics (MD). In particular, we analyze the cross-correlations of atomic displacements in both the GTP-bound and GDP-bound states together with detailed network analysis of residues that determine their unique functions. Our analysis reveals consistent dynamic subdomain structures in the catalytic domain of both Ras and transducin, indicating that the two proteins use a similar framework for allostery. However, nucleotide dependent transitions of inter-subdomain couplings are found to be distinct between these two proteins, which may define their specific functions. In addition, residues mediating the coupling of distal functional sites in Ras are identified and compared with the allosteric residues from G[alpha]i discovered in our previous work. Our studies extend current understanding of G protein allosteric mechanisms and provide an exclusive insight into the evolution of G protein superfamilies.
Analysis of the adult chronic rhinosinusitis working definition

In 1997, the Task Force on Rhinosinusitis produced a working definition for adult chronic rhinosinusitis. The diagnostic criteria grew out of expert consensus opinion and were "intended to serve as a unifying starting point for further research." The validity of these criteria has not been tested yet. This article summarizes our experience with these diagnostic criteria. All patients presenting for evaluation of rhinosinusitis were routinely questioned as to the presence of a number of sinonasal symptoms, including those contained within the Task Force's working definition. The presence or absence of nasal purulence on anterior nasal examination was noted also. Patients who subsequently had surgery to address their chronic rhinosinusitis were felt to be the "gold standard" and comprised the study population. All patients included in the study had symptoms for > 12 weeks, evidence of rhinosinusitis that was discovered by computed tomography (CT), and inflammation found on analysis of pathology specimens. These patients' symptom questionnaires and nasal examinations were reviewed. Fifty-seven patients met the criteria for inclusion in the study. Nasal obstruction/blockage and facial congestion/fullness were the most common symptoms. The average numbers of major and minor symptoms were 3.2 and 2.8, respectively. Patients with polyps and with previous nasal or sinus surgery differed little from the overall population. Of the 57 patients in the study, 50 patients met the diagnostic criteria set forth by the Task Force for a sensitivity of 87.7%. Diagnosing chronic rhinosinusitis without radiological imaging or nasal endoscopy is difficult. The criteria set forth by the Task Force provide a relatively sensitive working definition of chronic rhinosinusitis. Further work is underway to assess the specificity and predictive value of these criteria.
The Forensic Stage: The staging of dispute settlement

Many characters of New Comedy exhibit what may be called a “forensic disposition.” Manifesting itself in the ease with which they call upon the law – for debate, for intimidating others, for assistance in their difficulties – it aligns them with many of the litigants who surface vividly in the speeches of fourth-century Attic orators: disparagers of philopragmones (busybodies), but philodikoi (lawsuit lovers) nonetheless. This disposition – in short, a flair for calling upon the law at the drop of a hat – appears in more and less overt ways throughout New Comedy. More overtly, it reveals itself as characters easily discuss and debate the intricacies of such laws as those pertaining to epikleroi (heiresses without fathers or brothers), as they seek the advice of legal experts for drawing up documents or for promoting their understanding of the law, as they act as arbitrators of their neighbors' disputes, call on witnesses to testify to contractual agreements or wrongful acts, offer to torture slaves for evidence and sometimes march the tortured victims across the stage. They threaten suits against their adversaries, frame their friends and enemies to gain their ends, complain of the litigious conduct of others, and sometimes fear their own conduct will be seen in that same unflattering light. The texts of fourth-century Attic orators could easily have supplied material for any number of these situations and characters: e.g., the backroom manipulations over the estate of an epikleros in Isaios 10 ArisL ; the ever victimized Mantitheos of [Dem.] 40 Boiot .
Gain determination of non-linear IR detectors with the differential photon transfer curve (dPTC) method

Conversion gain is a basic detector property which relates the raw counts in a pixel in data numbers (DN) to the number of electrons detected. The standard method for determining the gain is called the Photon Transfer Curve (PTC) method and involves the measurement the change in variance as a function of signal level. For non-linear IR detectors, this method depends strongly on the non-linearity correction and is therefore susceptible to systematic biases due to calibration issues. We have developed a new, robust, and fast method, the differential Photon Transfer Curve (dPTC) method, which is independent of non-linearity corrections, but still delivers gain values similar in precision but higher in accuracy.
MICROFLORA OF COCOA BEANS BEFORE AND AFTER ROASTING AT 150 C1

Cocoa beans representative of different fermentation practices, flavor types, and geographic origins were collected and analyzed microbiologically before and after roasting under laboratory conditions which simulated commercial practices. The detectable number of microorganisms per gram of bean before roasting ranged from 3 × 105 to 4.7 × 107. After roasting the beans for 40 min at 150 C the counts ranged from 103 to 1.6 × 105 per gram. The genus Bacillus accounted for 91% of the 277 isolates. Only bacilli were found in roasted beans and Bacillus stearothermophilus and Bacillus coagulans were the predominant species. Microorganisms identified in unroasted beans were nineteen species of Bacillus, two of Streptococcus, two of Micrococcus, two of Escherichia, and single species of Aerobacter, Flavobacterium, and Microbacterium.
The Effects of a Scheduled Driver Engagement Strategy in Automated Driving

This simulator study investigated a driver engagement (DE) strategy designed to keep the driver-in-the-loop during automated driving in the face of two different types of secondary tasks. The metho...
Acoustic Emission Analysis of SCS-6 Fiber Fracture in Titanium Matrix Composites

One aspect of successful composite design involves development of a detailed knowledge of damage evolution. In metal matrix composites, cracking and/or plastic deformation of one or more constituents together with fiber-matrix interfacial debonding and sliding generally occur prior to catastrophic failure [1, 2]. The nature and severity of these damage processes controls mechanical performance. In ductile matrix systems having a low fiber-matrix interfacial strength, the failure process can involve successive fragmentation of the fibers with increasing load. Broken fibers shed load (equally among the unbroken fibers in the case of global load sharing) until the fiber fracture density reaches some critical value and the sample catastrophically fails. Characterization of damage development has been slowed by a lack of NDE techniques. Here, the use of acoustic emission (AE) techniques is explored to further understand and quantify failure processes of this type.
Potential independent action of sigma receptor ligands through inhibition of the Kv2.1 channel.

// Xinying Liu 1, * , Yingmei Fu 2, 3, * , Huan Yang 2 , Timur Mavlyutov 2, 4 , Jun Li 2, 5 , Christopher R. McCurdy 6 , Lian-Wang Guo 2, 7, 8 and Bikash R. Pattnaik 7, 9 1 Departments of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA 2 Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA 3 Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China 4 Department of Anesthesiology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA 5 Department of Ophthalmology, The Third People’s Hospital of Dalian, Dalian, PR China 6 Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA 7 McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA 8 Department of Surgery and Department of Physiology & Cell Biology, Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA 9 Department of Pediatrics, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA * These authors have contributed equally to this work Correspondence to: Bikash R. Pattnaik, email: bikashp@pediatrics.wisc.edu Lian-Wang Guo, email: Lianwang.Guo@osumc.edu Keywords: Kv2.1 channel, CRISPR/Cas9, sigma receptor ligands, patch-clamp, electroretinogram Received: April 21, 2017 Accepted: June 16, 2017 Published: July 26, 2017 ABSTRACT The sigma-1 receptor (σ1-R) and sigma-2 receptor (σ2-R) are potential drug targets for treatment of cancer, pain, depression, retinal degeneration and other neuronal diseases. Previous reports show that sigma-1 receptor modulates the activities of multiple channels. We are interested in possible sigma receptor modulation of Kv2.1, a K + channel abundant in retinal photoreceptors. We tested the effect of established sigma receptor ligands on Kv2.1 channels which were stably expressed in HEK293 cells. Surprisingly, σ1-R antagonists inhibited Kv2.1 currents in both wild type and σ1-R knockout HEK293 cells that we engineered using the CRISPR/Cas9 technology. Moreover, PB28, a σ1-R antagonist and also σ2-R agonist, inhibited Kv2.1 in σ1-R knockout cells, but this action was not blocked by the σ2-R antagonists that did not have an effect on Kv2.1. We also observed inhibition of electroretinogram by PB28 in wild type as well as σ1-R knockout mice. Thus, the results in this study indicate that the Kv2.1-inhibiting function of the sigma ligands is not sigma receptor dependent, suggesting a direct effect of these ligands on the Kv2.1 channel.
Idiopathic Ventricular Arrhythmias Originating From the Parietal Band: Electrocardiographic and Electrophysiological Characteristics and Outcome of Catheter Ablation

Backgrounds—The parietal band is one of the muscle bands in the right ventricle. This study investigated the electrocardiographic and electrophysiological characteristics and ablation outcome of id...
Adaptive Control of a Flexible Structure

Abstract The design of a high-performance adaptive controller is discussed for an experimental lightly-damped flexible structure. The plant, the Stanford Four-Disk System, sustains large step changes in parameters as payload mass is added. New methods that make use of limited a priori knowledge of the plant are shown not only to greatly improve the quality of the identification in the presence of measurement noise and other disturbances, but greatly reduce the number of parameters that need be identified. The methods make use of known plant dynamics, frequency bands where unknown, modeled dynamics may exist and the natural damping of such dynamics. A method of dynamic pole-placement that ensures good step response, a high degree of active damping of modeled modes, modest amounts of control effort and low computational intensity is presented. A controller structure that ensures bumpless transfer between leapfrogging adaptive controllers and a standby robust controller is discussed. The performance of the adaptive non-colocated compensator, a robust colocated compensator and a robust non-colocated compensator are compared. The experimental adaptive controller dramatically outperforms the robust compensators within several seconds after a major change in plant parameters.