cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Characterization of structural features that mediate the tethering of Caenorhabditis elegans protein kinase A to a novel A kinase anchor protein. Insights into the anchoring of PKAI isoforms.

Abstract Caenorhabditis elegans protein kinase A (PKAICE) is tethered to organelles in vivo. A unique A kinase anchor protein (AKAPCE) avidly binds the RI-like regulatory subunits (RCE) of PKAICE and stringently discriminates against RIIα and RIIβ subunits, the preferred ligands for classical AKAPs. We elucidated structural features that stabilize AKAPCE·RCE complexes and confer atypical R isoform specificity on the anchor protein. Three large aliphatic amino acids (Leu236, Ile248, and Leu252) in the tethering domain of AKAPCE(residues 236–255) are crucial for ligation of RCE. Their side chains apparently generate a precisely configured hydrophobic binding pocket that accommodates an apolar surface on RCEdimers. Basic residues (His254-Arg255-Lys256) at the C terminus of the tethering site set an upper limit on affinity for RCE. A central dipeptide (Phe243-Ser244) contributes critical and distinctive properties of the tethering site. Ser244 is essential for selective binding of RCE and exclusion of RII isoforms. The aromatic hydrophobic character of Phe243ensures maximal RCE binding activity, thereby supporting a “gatekeeper” function of Ser244. Substitution of Phe243-Ser244 with Leu-Val generated an RII-specific AKAP. RCE and RII subunits contain similar dimerization domains. AKAP-binding domains of RCE (residues 23–47) and RII differ markedly in size, amino acid sequence, and docking specificity. Four hydrophobic residues (Cys23, Val27, Ile32, and Cys44) in RCE are crucial for avid binding with AKAPCE, whereas side chains from Leu20, Leu35, Val36, Ile40, and Ile41 have little impact on complex formation. Tyr26 is embedded in the docking domain, but its aromatic ring is required for RCE-RCE dimerization. Residues 236–255 in AKAPCE also constitute a binding site for mammalian RIα. RIα (PKAIα) is tightly sequestered by AKAPCE in vitro (K D = ∼10 nm) and in the environment of intact cells. The tethering domain of AKAPCEprovides a molecular module for manipulating intracellular localization of RI and elucidating functions of anchored PKAI in eukaryotes.
The removal of naphthalene from aqueous solutions using high-energy electron beam irradiation

Abstract Polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are significant contaminants at many sites. To study alternative remediation processes for the destruction of contaminant PAHs in water we have investigated the in situ free radical removal of naphthalene from distilled and treated ground water, using both steady-state and electron-beam irradiation at small and large scale. The naphthalene removal was found to be more efficient at higher initial naphthalene concentrations, and to always decrease with increasing applied dose. From the kinetic modeling of different pH and water quality experiments the variation in the naphthalene removal efficiency was found to be due to the increased competition for the produced hydroxyl radical, especially by carbonate at higher pH, and by the products of the naphthalene degradation.
Effects of low levels of dietary lead and iron on hepatic RNA, protein, and minerals in young Japanese quail

Day-old Japanese quail were fed purified diets containing either 0.2 (control), 5.4, or 16.2 ppm lead as the acetate with either 25 (deficient) or 100 ppm (adequate control) iron for 2 weeks. Iron deficiency caused decreases in hemoglobin, iron, and manganese in the liver, and hepatic RNA synthesis. Iron deficiency also caused increased concentrations of lead, calcium, and molybdenum in the liver. Lead supplements caused increased concentrations of lead in the liver, and with adequate dietary iron, each supplemental lead level caused a slight decrease in the concentration of RNA in the liver. Treatment had no effect on DNA or protein synthesis, body weight, or liver weight in relation to body weight. These low levels of dietary lead did not cause the same adverse metabolic effects observed by others with higher levels of lead; however, iron deficiency increased lead uptake by the liver and affected RNA synthesis.
Evaluation of Comprehension and Legibility of International and Domestic Nonstandard Symbol Signs

This paper documents a research project that evaluated proposed new traffic signs to ensure that the signs were effective when human factors requirements were taken into consideration. The following sign messages were selected for symbol development and evaluation: combination horizontal alignment-advisory speed, congestion ahead, cross-street preferential lane warning, do not enter, do not pass, electric-vehicle charging station, fallen rocks, flagger ahead, low-shoulder warning, maximum width, no left turn ahead, railroad crossing on leg of roundabout, road narrows, survey crew, trolley crossing, uneven lanes, and winery. The team conducted 96 surveys to determine driver comprehension and legibility for each alternative sign design. The surveys were administered to the general driving public at the Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center in McLean, Virginia. On the basis of driver input and the results of the comprehension and legibility testing, the research team provided recommendations on symbols tha...
Burden of general medical conditions among individuals with bipolar disorder.

Objective: Treatment of coexisting medical comorbidities may reduce the risk of adverse outcomes among patients with bipolar disorder. We determined the prevalence of general medical conditions in a population-based sample of patients diagnosed with bipolar disorder in the Veterans Administration (VA). Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study of patients (n = 4310) diagnosed with bipolar disorder in fiscal year 2001 receiving care at VA facilities located within the mid-Atlantic region. General medical conditions were assessed using ICD-9 codes, and we compared the prevalence of each condition in our bipolar sample with national data on the VA patient population. Results: The mean age was 53 (SD = 13), 10% were women, and 12% African-American. The mean age of the VA national patient population was higher (58 years). The most prevalent conditions among patients with bipolar disorder included cardiovascular (e.g. hypertension, 35%), endocrine (e.g. hyperlipidemia, 23%; diabetes, 17%), and alcohol use disorder (25%). When compared with national data, the prevalence of diabetes was higher in the bipolar cohort than in the national cohort (17.2% versus 15.6%; p = 0.0035). Hepatitis C was more common in the bipolar group than the national cohort (5.9% versus 1.1%; p < 0.001). Lower back pain (15.4% versus 10.6%; p < 0.0001) and pulmonary conditions (e.g. COPD: 10.6% versus 9.4%; p = 0.005) were also more prevalent among the bipolar cohort than the VA national cohort. Conclusions: Individuals with bipolar disorder possess a substantial burden of general medical comorbidity, and are occurring at an earlier age than in the general VA patient population, suggesting the need for earlier detection and treatment for patients with bipolar disorder.
Three dimensional sub-band coding of video

A novel coding scheme has been developed which is based on multidimensional subband coding. The digital video signal is filtered and sub-sampled in all three dimensions (temporally, horizontally and vertically) to yield the subbands, from which the input signal can be losslessly reconstructed in the absence of coding loss. The subbands can be more efficiently coded than the input signal in terms of compression and quality, because the restricted information in each band allows well-tailored encoding. The computational complexity of this coding scheme compares favorably to DCT with interframe prediction and inter/intra frame DPCM. The scheme has an architectural structure suitable for parallel implementation, and it yields high compression with sustained good quality. >
Rapid and sensitive detection of nano-fluidically trapped protein biomarkers

In this work, we demonstrate the label-free and ultrasensitive detection of troponin-T, cardiac biomarker using nanoporous membrane integrated on a microelectrode sensor platform. The nanoporous membrane allows for spatial confinement of the protein molecules. Antigen interaction with thiol immobilized antibody perturbs the electrical double layer. Charge perturbations are recorded as impedance change at low frequency using the principle of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The measured impedance change is used to quantitatively determine the concentration of troponin-T in tested sample. We have shown that sensitivity of sensor for troponin-T to be 1pg/mL. The accuracy and reliability of this sensor was tested by comparing the experimental troponin-T concentration values with a commercially available electrochemiluminescence assay measured with Roche Elecsys analyzer. Using this technique we were successful in detecting protein biomarkers in whole blood, human serum, and ionic buffers. This technology provides a robust analytical platform for rapid and sensitive detection of protein biomarkers, thus establishing this technology as an ideal candidate for biomarker screening in clinical settings.
Echocardiographic diastolic parameters and risk of atrial fibrillation: the Cardiovascular Health Study

Aims Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia in the elderly, and shares several risk factors with diastolic dysfunction, including hypertension and advanced age. The purpose of this study is to examine diastolic dysfunction as a risk for incident AF. Methods and results We examined the association of echocardiographic parameters of diastolic function with the incidence of AF in 4480 participants enrolled in the Cardiovascular Health Study, an ongoing cohort of community-dwelling older adults from four US communities. Participants underwent baseline echocardiography in 1989–1990 and were followed for incident AF on routine follow-up and hospitalizations. After 50 941 person-years of follow-up (median follow-up time 12.1 years), 1219 participants developed AF. In multivariable-adjusted age-stratified Cox models, diastolic echocardiographic parameters were significantly associated with the risk of incident AF. The most significant parameters were the Doppler peak E-wave velocity and left atrial diameter, which demonstrated a positive nonlinear association [HR 1.5 (CI 1.3–1.9) and HR 1.7 (CI 1.4–2.1) for highest vs. lowest quintile, respectively], and Doppler A-wave velocity time integral, which displayed a U-shaped relationship with the risk of AF [HR 0.7 (CI 0.6–0.9) for middle vs. lowest quintile]. Each diastolic parameter displayed a significant association with adjusted NT-proBNP levels, although the nature of the association did not entirely parallel the risk of AF. Further cluster analysis revealed unique patterns of diastolic function that may identify patients at risk for AF. Conclusion In a community-based population of older adults, echocardiographic measures of diastolic function are significantly associated with an increased risk of AF.
Complement control protein factor H: The good, the bad, and the inadequate

The complement system is an essential component of the innate immune system that participates in elimination of pathogens and altered host cells and comprises an essential link between the innate and adaptive immune system. Soluble and membrane-bound complement regulators protect cells and tissues from unintended complement-mediated injury. Complement factor H is a soluble complement regulator essential for controlling the alternative pathway in blood and on cell surfaces. Normal recognition of self-cell markers (i.e. polyanions) and C3b/C3d fragments is necessary for factor H function. Inadequate recognition of host cell surfaces by factor H due to mutations and polymorphisms have been associated with complement-mediated tissue damage and disease. On the other hand, unwanted recognition of pathogens and altered self-cells (i.e. cancer) by factor H is used as an immune evasion strategy. This review will focus on the current knowledge related to these versatile recognition properties of factor H.
Control of a class of nonlinear systems subject to periodic exogenous signals

This paper examines the control of single-input feedback linearizable nonlinear systems that are either subject to periodic disturbances or tracking periodic reference trajectories with known periods. The key concept is the combination of differential geometric techniques with the internal model principle resulting in a nonlinear repetitive control strategy. A formulation is presented for the case of input-state linearizable and input-output linearizable systems in continuous time. The potential benefits of the nonlinear repetitive controller are given. It is shown that while the standard nonlinear control techniques can be made robust to disturbances, the nonlinear repetitive technique is more robust to specific types of disturbances in that it does not require knowledge of the disturbance magnitude and does not need high gains to accomplish robustness. An experiment on the active vibration isolation of a single degree of freedom magnetic levitation testbed shows the effectiveness of the approach.
Drosophila histone locus bodies form by hierarchical recruitment of components

Nuclear bodies are protein- and RNA-containing structures that participate in a wide range of processes critical to genome function. Molecular self-organization is thought to drive nuclear body formation, but whether this occurs stochastically or via an ordered, hierarchical process is not fully understood. We addressed this question using RNAi and proteomic approaches in Drosophila melanogaster to identify and characterize novel components of the histone locus body (HLB), a nuclear body involved in the expression of replication-dependent histone genes. We identified the transcription elongation factor suppressor of Ty 6 (Spt6) and a homologue of mammalian nuclear protein of the ataxia telangiectasia–mutated locus that is encoded by the homeotic gene multisex combs (mxc) as novel HLB components. By combining genetic manipulation in both cell culture and embryos with cytological observations of Mxc, Spt6, and the known HLB components, FLICE-associated huge protein, Mute, U7 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein, and MPM-2 phosphoepitope, we demonstrated sequential recruitment and hierarchical dependency for localization of factors to HLBs during development, suggesting that ordered assembly can play a role in nuclear body formation.
Preparation of ring‐labelled adamantane derivatives. I. 2‐adamantanecarboxylic acid‐2‐14C and 2‐methyladamantane‐2‐14C

A relatively simple route to 2-substituted adamantane derivatives labelled with 14C at the 2-position in the adamantane skeleton was developed. The approach used (Figure I) involved ring expansion of adamantanone by labelled diazomethane, conversion of the resulting 4-homoadamantanone (II) to diazoketone IV, followed by photolytic Wolff ring contraction to 2-adamantanecarboxylic acid-2-14C (VI). Reduction of the carboxylic acid by conventional procedures gave 2-methyladamantane-2-14C (IX).
Asymptotic error rate behavior for noncoherent on-off keying

This article corrects a minor error in a venerable contribution by Stein (1966) to the statistical theory of communication. The author shows that at high SNR, with optimum decision threshold, mark and space errors contribute equally to the average error probability. >
pH Regulation in Adult Rat Carotid Body Glomus Cells Importance of Extracellular pH, Sodium, and Potassium

The course of intracellular pH (pHi) was followed in superfused (36 degrees C) single glomus (type I) cells of the freshly dissociated adult rat carotid body. The cells had been loaded with the pH-sensitive fluorescent dye 2',7'-(2-carboxyethyl)-5 (and -6)-carboxyfluorescein. The high K(+)-nigericin method was used for calibration. The pHi of the glomus cell at pHo 7.40, without CO2, was 7.23 +/- 0.02 (n = 70); in 5% CO2/25 mM HCO3-, pHi was 7.18 +/- 0.08 (n = 9). The pHi was very sensitive to changes in pHo. Without CO2, delta pHi/delta pHo was 0.85 (pHo 6.20-8.00; 32 cells), while in CO2/HCO3- this ratio was 0.82 irrespective of whether pHo (6.80-7.40; 14 cells) was changed at constant PCO2 or at constant [HCO3-]o. The great pHi sensitivity of the glomus cell to pHo is matched only by that of the human red cell. An active Na+/H+ exchanger (apparent Km = 58 +/- 6 mM) is present in glomus cells: Na+ removal or addition of the amiloride derivative 5-(N,N-hexamethylene)-amiloride induced pHi to fall by as much as 0.9. The membrane of these cells also contains a K+/H+ exchanger. Raising [K+]o from 4.7 to 25, 50, or 140 mM reversibly raised pHi by 0.2, 0.3, and 0.6, respectively. Rb+ had no effect, but in corresponding concentrations of Tl+ alkalinization was much faster than in K+. Reducing [K+]o to 1.5 mM lowered pHi by 0.1. These pHi changes were shown not to be due to changes in membrane voltage, and were even more striking in the absence of Na+. Intrinsic buffering power (amount of strong base required to produce, in the nominal absence of CO2, a small pHi rise) increased from 3 to approximately 21 mM as pHi was lowered, but remained nearly unchanged below pHi 6.60. The fitted expression assumed the presence of one "equivalent" intracellular buffer (pK 6.41, 41 mM). The exceptional pHi sensitivity to pHo suggests that the pHi of the glomus cell is a link in the chemoreceptor's response to external acidity.
Demonstration of piezoelectric actuated GaAs-based MEMS tunable VCSEL

We report the first experimental demonstration of a novel piezoelectric actuated microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) tunable vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL). A large physical deflection was obtained with the piezoelectric actuated MEMS cantilever beam monolithically integrated with the VCSEL distributed Bragg reflector. Single-mode emission and continuous tuning were achieved at room temperature under continuous-wave operation
Signaling Dominance in Online Negotiations: The Role of Affective Tone

The present research looks at how people interpret power in negotiations based not just on control over objective resources but also on behavioral expressions of dominance as signaled through affective language in the limited-cues environment of electronically mediated communication. We further explore whether those interpretations of dominance shape negotiation outcomes. The results of an experiment, along with the linguistic analyses of the e-mail messages themselves, indicate that negative affective expressions (anger) online positively influence perceptions of dominance, while displays of positive affect (happiness) can signal the opposite, especially when coupled with low resource power. Moreover, we find that anger displays in e-mails can influence individual gains positively, while perceptions of dominance mediate the relationship between displays of happiness and individual outcomes. Implications are discussed.
New Frontiers in Clinical Trials Aimed at Improving Outcome Following Traumatic Brain Injury

To date, over 25 clinical trials have been developed to improve outcome by addressing the first two pathologies. None have been successful. However, to our knowledge no one has developed studies to address the clinical relevance of hypoperfusion. Using a model of mixed focal/disuse brain injury, Armstead published that endothelin-1 (ET-1), a powerful vasoconstrictor, plays a critical role in mediating vasoconstriction following traumatic brain injury (TBI). Several laboratories have published that blocking ETrA using BQ-123, a specific ETrA antagonist, improves cerebral blood flow (CBF) after TBI. Kreipke’s laboratory further studied the effects of hypoperfusion on cellular and behavioral outcome following TBI and showed that BQ-123 reduces the extent of hypoperfusion which, in turn, improves both cellular and behavioral outcome following TBI. While these results show promise, enthusiasm for clinical application of this work has been dampened by a lack of a clinically relevant drug that is specific to ETrA (e.g., Bosentan, a mixed ETrA/B antagonist, causes systemic hypotension and, thus, is not a suitable candidate for improving outcome following TBI). However, in 2007 Actelion developed Clazosentan, which is the most highly specific ETrA antagonist currently available (10–100X more selective than previously available drugs [Bosentan, Enrasentan, Tezosentan, Darusentan]). This chapter outlines the seminal aspects of the work related to preclinical studies using ET antagonists as potential therapies for head trauma victims.
Characterization of Fatty Acids in Crenarchaeota by GC-MS and NMR

Lipids composed of condensed isoprenyl units connected to glycerol backbones by ether linkages are a distinguishing feature of Archaea. Data suggesting that fatty acids with linear hydrocarbon chains are present in some Archaea have been available for decades. However, lack of genomic and biochemical evidence for the metabolic machinery required to synthesize and degrade fatty acids has left the field unclear on this potentially significant biochemical aspect. Because lipids are energy currency and cell signaling molecules, their presence in Archaea is significant for understanding archaeal biology. A recent large-scale bioinformatics analysis reignited the debate as to the importance of fatty acids in Archaea by presenting genetic evidence for the presence of enzymes required for anabolic and catabolic fatty acid metabolism across the archaeal domain. Here, we present direct biochemical evidence from gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy for the presence of fatty acids in two members of the Crenarchaeota, Sulfolobus solfataricus and Ignicoccus hospitalis. This is the first report providing biochemical data for the existence of fatty acids in these Crenarchaeota, opening new discussions on energy balance and the potential for the discovery of new thermostable enzymes for industry.
Tools for Successful Weight Management in Primary Care

Obesity is one of the most pervasive and costly public health problems. Clinicians need effective tools to address weight management in primary care, including evaluation and communication methods, guideline-based weight management interventions and safe and effective weight loss medications and surgery. The objective of this Grand Rounds presentation is to provide practicing clinicians with the latest information regarding effective ways to care for and communicate with patients about weight loss; evidence-based guidelines for selecting weight management therapies and safety, efficacy and adverse effects of weight loss medications and surgery.
Responding to McCleskey and Batson: The North Carolina Racial Justice Act Confronts Racial Peremptory Challenges in Death Cases

North Carolina’s Racial Justice Act manifested a clear intent to overcome the restrictions imposed by McCleskey on the use of statistical evidence and to use such evidence to eliminate the impact of race where it is a “significant factor in decisions to seek or impose the death penalty” in pertinent prosecutorial units where a death sentence was imposed. Most innovatively, it gives force to the long established prohibition articulated in Strauder, Swain, and Batson that jurors may not be excluded by racially discriminatory peremptory challenges, stating that the statute’s commands are violated if it is shown that “[r]ace was a significant factor in decisions to exercise peremptory challenges during jury selection.” By cumulating peremptory strike patterns and potential neutral justifications across cases, the statistical analysis provides an opportunity to the court to determine whether racial discrimination in jury selection occurred in death penalty cases. To enforce its commands, an extensive study was conducted to gather data and to analyze the impact of race on the cases of all those on North Carolina’s death row. The study shows significant racial disparities after a broad range of legitimate potential explanations have been considered for peremptory strikes exercised by the prosecution. The court’s decision in State v. Robinson found the study valid and its results powerful evidence that race played a role prohibited by the RJA in the exercise of peremptory challenges in that case. As the impact of the 2012 changes in the RJA are resolved, the original RJA remains a model for consideration by other states interested eradicating the improper use of race in peremptory challenges and remedying the failures of McCleskey and Batson. The promise the RJA demonstrated in Robinson remains, for the RJA was not abandoned because the statistical evidence was found flawed or proved unmanageable, nor was the pernicious effect of race found absent. Indeed, the trial court’s judgment in Robinson revealed a deeply troubling pattern of improper use of race in peremptory strikes that it concluded clearly warranted remedy. Time and future litigation will resolve the legacy of North Carolina’s RJA. It started as an effort to cure the impact of McCleskey and eliminate the weakness of Batson. Hopefully, the tragic lost opportunities of McCleskey will not be repeated.
Annexin I in female rabbit reproductive organs: varying levels in relation to maturity and pregnancy.

The level of annexin I, a 36 kDa calcium-dependent phospholipid-binding protein (36 kDa PLBP) in the reproductive organs of young, mature, and pregnant rabbits was determined immunologically with antibodies raised against purified rabbit lung annexin I. In the cytosolic fractions of the ovary, fallopian tube, uterus, and placenta, annexin I was the only major immunoreactive protein. The reproductive organs appeared to have higher annexin I levels than most nonreproductive organ tissues, except the lung and the spleen which were also rich in annexin I. A small amount of annexin I and a nearly equal amount of its hydrolytic product, a 33 kDa polypeptide, were detected in the amniotic fluid between 21 and 27 days gestation. Structural similarity of annexin I in the reproductive organs and in the lung was suggested by their identical isoelectric point values. Annexin I in the ovary of adult rabbits was 70% higher than that in the respective organ of immature rabbits. The uterus of pregnant rabbits had about 84% higher annexin I contents than that of the nonpregnant rabbits., The placenta had more annexin I per mg cytosolic protein than either the ovary or the uterus during pregnancy. The high concentration of annexin I in the reproductive organs may reflect specific functions of these organs in the reproductive years and during the reproductive cycle.
A General Nonlithographic Method for Producing Nanodots by RIE Etching

In this work, thin layers of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) on Ni on silicon substrates were etched almost completely away by oxygen RIE, leaving only the topmost portion of the roughness, generating nanodots of PMMA approximately 30-40nm or smaller in size. After sufficiently hard baking the samples to promote PMMA adhesion to the Ni and to increase the robustness of the PMMA, the nanodots were used as a mask to etch the thin Ni films, thus generating Ni nanodots on Si. The Ni nanodots were then used as a reactive ion (RIE) etch mask, thereby generating Si nanopillars. With further understanding of the mechanism of the generation of the roughness of the PMMA, or with the use of other polymeric materials suitable as wet etching masks, nanodots of varying size should be attainable. This method represents a very simple, low cost, scalable, and general technique to produce nanodots of various thin metals on various substrates.
The Advancement of Religion versus Teaching About Religion in the Public Schools

It is now two decades since the United States Supreme Court's decisions, forbidding prayers and devotions in public school class rooms, but encouraging what the Court called "teaching about religion."1 One can say fairly that many of the basic issues have not been clarified and settled, either in the public mind or prac tically. The Supreme Court's necessary distinction between "ad vancement of religion" and "teaching about religion" in the public schools has not been accepted as widely as might have been hoped, and confusion about it still exists among many edu cational professionals as well as parents. This author was among the hopeful, twenty years ago, when he wrote a book for general reading entitled, God in Education, A New Opportunity for Ameri can Public Schools. It appeared in print shortly after the Supreme Court's decisions. Although the author is a Protestant, the book was published by a Roman Catholic firm, Sheed and Ward. Its editor, Philip Scharfer, recognized the importance of the Court's decisions.
The Soft tissue profile burstone analysis of baoan children with normal occlusion in gansu province by cephalometric

Objective To establish the normal values of cephalometry of soft-tissue profile in BaoAn children with normal occlusion in Gansu Province and to study the gender characteristic of soft-tissue profile. Methods The cephalometric radiographs of 265 BaoAn children with normal occlusion(135 males with an average age of 13.71±1.83 years and 130 females with an average age of12.52±1.64 years) were measured by Dolphin Imaging Software. Then SPSS13.0 software package,along with Burstone cephalometric analysis, was employed to do statistics analysis on the results.The difference of soft-tissue profile on different genders was analyzed. Results We obtain the standard value and standard deviation of Burstone cephalometric analysis methods BaoAn children with normal occlusion in Gansu Province,with some differences observed between different genders and different nationalities. Conclusion Although both genders have similar development characteristic of soft-tissue profile, there still exist some differences. Face thickness and height of men more than women, men who been labial ministry and the central soft tissue side looks sharp than women. To understand the development characteristic of soft-tissue profile in population with normal occlusion is contributed to clinical diagnosis and treatment planning.
New techniques in polymer microscopy

A wide range of techniques in microscopy has either appeared within the past few years, or has only recently been applied to the study of polymer systems. These new forms of microscopy are distinct from the continuing evolution of the microscope. This is currently rapid in the direction of ease of use, computer control and increased use of digital image storage and processing, even for optical microscopy [1, 2]. Some examples of these new forms of microscopy as they have been applied to polymers are included in the previous two chapters. In the case of novel types of scanning electron microscopy and high resolution transmission electron microscopy, the principles of microscope operation and image formation are described in Chapters 2 and 3, respectively.
Metabolic Effects of Monounsaturated Fatty Acid-Enriched Diets Compared With Carbohydrate or Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid-Enriched Diets in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

OBJECTIVE Dietary interventions in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) are important for preventing long-term complications. Although a healthy diet is crucial, there is still uncertainty about the optimal macronutrient composition. We performed a meta-analysis comparing diets high in cis -monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) to diets high in carbohydrates (CHO) or in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) on metabolic risk factors in patients with T2D. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS We systematically reviewed PubMed, MEDLINE, and Cochrane databases and prior systematic reviews and meta-analyses to identify interventions assessing HbA 1c , fasting plasma glucose and insulin, LDL and HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, body weight, or systolic/diastolic blood pressure. Meta-analyses were conducted using both fixed- and random-effects models to calculate the weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% CI. RESULTS We identified 24 studies totaling 1,460 participants comparing high-MUFA to high-CHO diets and 4 studies totaling 44 participants comparing high-MUFA to high-PUFA diets. When comparing high-MUFA to high-CHO diets, there were significant reductions in fasting plasma glucose (WMD −0.57 mmol/L [95% CI −0.76, −0.39]), triglycerides (−0.31 mmol/L [−0.44, −0.18]), body weight (−1.56 kg [−2.89, −0.23]), and systolic blood pressure (−2.31 mmHg [−4.13, −0.49]) along with significant increases in HDL cholesterol (0.06 mmol/L [0.02, 0.10]). When high-MUFA diets were compared with high-PUFA diets, there was a significant reduction in fasting plasma glucose (−0.87 mmol/L [−1.67, −0.07]). All of the outcomes had low to medium levels of heterogeneity, ranging from 0.0 to 69.5% for diastolic blood pressure ( P het = 0.011). CONCLUSIONS Our meta-analysis provides evidence that consuming diets high in MUFA can improve metabolic risk factors among patients with T2D.
Real-time object-oriented database support for program stock trading

Many computer systems that automatically control financial applications are required to handle large amounts of data with timing constraints imposed on the data and on the transactions that access the data. Traditional database technology, however, is not designed to manage perishable (timeconstrained) data of financial applications, such as â€œcurrentâ€ stock prices and trading volumes in index arbitrage transactions. Furthermore, traditional database systems are not capable of scheduling the time-constrained transactions in financial applications, such as transactions that must be performed within time bounds of guaranteed price quotations. This paper presents a schema model of real-time objectoriented database that addresses these weaknesses and shows how this model can support a form of intelligent program stock trading called index arbitrage. This paper also illustrates the use of a protocol called timed atomic commitment, which is an extension of traditional distributed database atomic commitment protocol, to perform index arbitrage transactions using our real-time object-oriented database model.
Extended Markov and Renewal Models

The queueing systems discussed in the last two chapters were devoid of any features such as group arrivals, group service, priority service, etc., that would make modeling difficult. In this chapter we introduce them in a limited sense, so that Markov process modeling is still possible by extending the models as well as procedures for analyzing them. However, the readers should be warned that the extension of the procedure comes at the cost of employing a higher level of mathematics in the use of probability generating functions (PGFs). Also we introduce briefly the concept of a renewal process and how is can be used to model queueing systems.
Can targeted information affect academic performance and borrowing behavior for college students? Evidence from administrative data

Abstract More students than ever borrow to finance post-secondary education. However, students receive little information during the course of their college career that encourages them to recalibrate loan amounts and to consider academic and borrowing decisions jointly. This paper exploits a natural experiment to understand how targeted information can change student behavior. We study a large public university where students above a given debt threshold received letters with bundled information on student loan debt and effectively completing college, while students below the threshold did not. Using a difference-in-difference strategy and administrative data on individual-level academic records and borrowing, the intervention did not change borrowing in the subsequent semester but improved academic outcomes: credits completed and GPAs increased in the subsequent semester and retention rates increased.
Population-based assessment of racial/ethnic differences in utilization of radical cystectomy for patients diagnosed with bladder cancer

Radical cystectomy is a surgical treatment for recurrent non-muscle-invasive and muscle-invasive bladder cancer; however, many patients may not receive this treatment. A total of 27,578 patients diagnosed with clinical stage I–IV bladder cancer from 1 January 2007 to 31 December 2013 were identified from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) registry database. We used multivariable regression analyses to identify factors predicting the use of radical cystectomy and pelvic lymph node dissection. Cox proportional hazards models were used to analyze survival outcomes. A total of 1,693 (6.1%) patients with bladder cancer underwent radical cystectomy. Most patients (92.4%) who underwent radical cystectomy also underwent pelvic lymph node dissection. When compared with white patients, non-Hispanic blacks were less likely to undergo a radical cystectomy [odds ratio (OR) 0.79, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.64–0.96, p = 0.019]. Moreover, recent year of surgery 2013 versus 2007 (OR 2.32, 95% CI 1.90–2.83, p < 0.001), greater percentage of college education ≥36.3 versus <21.3% (OR 1.23, 95% CI 1.04–1.44, p = 0.013), Midwest versus West (OR 1.64, 95% CI 1.39–1.94, p < 0.001), and more advanced clinical stage III versus I (OR 29.1, 95% CI 23.9–35.3, p < 0.001) were associated with increased use of radical cystectomy. Overall survival was improved for patients who underwent radical cystectomy compared with those who did not undergo a radical cystectomy (hazard ratio 0.88, 95% CI 0.80–0.97, p = 0.008). There is significant underutilization of radical cystectomy in patients across all age groups diagnosed with bladder cancer, especially among older, non-Hispanic black patients.
DFT Study on the Li Mobility in Li-Ion-Based Solid-State Electrolytes

We have investigated the diffusion mechanisms of Li-ion in amorphous lithium phosphite (LiPO3) with the addition of sulphur. By applying the nudge elastic band (NEB)1 method in crystal LiPO3 and Li3PO4, we have confirmed the ease in diffusion pathways for Li ions in LiPO3 which is quite consistent with the previous theoretical finding. From our diffusion study in 0.5 Li2O- 0.5 P2O5 and 0.4 Li2SO4 – 0.6 (Li2O-P2O5) melts above 3000K investigated with ab-initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) has been confirmed by experiments at lower temperatures, we have demonstrated the benefit of S addition in increasing the Li+ mobility. We have also found that the Li2SO4 addition into the glass result in a characteristic shift in Li-ion vibration to a lower vibrational frequency. In addition, the presence of oxygen surrounding the diffusion pathways appears to be essential in assisting the Li+ mobility in both crystalline and amorphous structures.
THE EXPONENTIAL AND LOGARITHM FUNCTIONS

This chapter discusses the concepts of exponential and logarithm functions. In algebra, one defines the quantity a x , a > 0, uniquely for x any rational number. However, when one needs to define a x , a > 0, where x is any real number, one shall make some assumptions, none of which will be proved but all of which are proved in more advanced and complete treatments of the subject. The first of these assumptions is that any real number is the limit of a sequence {x n } of rational numbers. One way of defining real numbers is in terms of such a sequence. The chapter discusses a limit of the form lim t→0 (1 + t) l/t . This involves, first of all, the question of the existence of the limit, and secondly, its value. The chapter also discusses the concept of logarithmic differentiation, which enables filling in certain voids left by the differentiation theorems and which may also be used to simplify certain types of problems. The chapter discusses this method and explains its application by means of examples.
A hypermorphic antioxidant response element is associated with increased MS4A6A expression and Alzheimer's disease

Late onset Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a multifactorial disorder, with AD risk influenced by both environmental and genetic factors. Recent genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified genetic loci associated with increased risk of developing AD. The MS4A (membrane-spanning 4-domains subfamily A) gene cluster is one of the most significant loci associated with AD risk, and MS4A6A expression is correlated with AD pathology. We identified a single nucleotide polymorphism, rs667897, at the MS4A locus that creates an antioxidant response element and links MS4A6A expression to the stress responsive Cap-n-Collar (CNC) transcription factors NRF1 (encoded by NFE2L1) and NRF2 (encoded by NFE2L2). The risk allele of rs667897 generates a strong CNC binding sequence that is activated by proteostatic stress in an NRF1-dependent manner, and is associated with increased expression of the gene MS4A6A. Together, these findings suggest that the cytoprotective CNC regulatory network aberrantly activates MS4A6A expression and increases AD risk in a subset of the population.
Nanoscale elastic strain mapping of polycrystalline materials

Measuring elastic strain with nanoscale resolution has historically been very difficult and required a marriage of simulations and experiments. Nano precession electron diffraction provides excelle...
Child hospitalization: an opportunity for parental smoking intervention.

Abstract Background: Hospitalization with tobacco-related illness increases smokers’ interest in cessation. Because parental smoking increases the child’s risk of developing respiratory and other illnesses, a child’s hospitalization might motivate a smoking parent to consider changing smoking behavior. It is unclear if parents would be receptive to smoking-cessation interventions at the time when their child is hospitalized. Methods: In March 1999, parents of 298 consecutive children admitted to the medical services at Children’s Hospital Boston were interviewed to determine the smoking status of household members. Smoking parents were invited to complete a 35-item questionnaire regarding personal smoking history and acceptability of three types of cessation interventions. Results: Sixty-five smoking parents were identified among the 298 admissions; 62 of 65 (95%) participated in the survey. Among respondents, only 15% had ever participated in any smoking-cessation program, and only 31% had ever used a medication to try to quit. Although 78% of parents were willing to speak with a counselor about their smoking while their child was in the hospital, and 74% would enroll in a telephone-based smoking-cessation program, only 26% were interested in a free program requiring travel back to the hospital. All parents believed that pediatricians should offer parental smokers the chance to participate in a smoking-cessation program. Conclusions: At the time of a child’s hospitalization, parents are willing to enroll in smoking interventions that include in-hospital and telephone counseling but not to travel back to the hospital. A child’s hospitalization may provide a unique opportunity to enroll parents who smoke into cessation programs.
Imaging Chromosome Dynamics in Meiosis in Plants

Progression of meiosis has been traditionally reconstructed from microscopic images collected from fixed cells. This approach has clear shortcomings in accurately portraying the dynamics of meiotic processes. Studies conducted in recent years mostly in unicellular fungi have shown that chromosomes in meiotic prophase exhibit dynamic motility that cannot be accurately examined using fixed cell imaging. However, in contrast to yeast, research on meiotic chromosome dynamics in multicellular eukaryotes has been lagging. This was in part because meiocytes in multicellular eukaryotes reside deep within reproductive organs and are often refractory to culturing. Here, we describe a method in which intact, live-plant reproductive organs (anthers) are cultured to enable monitoring chromosome dynamics of meiocytes using multiphoton excitation (MPE) microscopy. The method was developed for use in maize but can be applied to other plant species and adapted for use in other taxa in which meiocytes are embedded in multicellular reproductive structures. MPE microscopy allows visualization of meiocytes embedded within native tissue in planta and thus meiocytes remain intact for the entire imaging procedure. We detail the kinds of time-lapse movies that can be captured and analyzed using this technique and also highlight software packages that can be utilized for analysis of movies chromosome dynamic in live meiocytes.
Chemistry of Lipid Oxidation

The scientific knowledge on the chemistry of lipid oxidation has made giant progress during the last 30 years. This paper reviews the progress on the chemistry of singlet and triplet oxygen, quantum mechanics and kinetics of lipid oxidation, mechanisms and stereochemistry of lipid hydroperoxidation, mechanisms and analysis of volatile compounds, and flavor evaluation of oxidized oils by gas chromatography of volatile compounds.
The Disastrous Effects of Experiment upon the Early Development of Thermodynamics

Nobody needs to be told that theories of nature must grow from experience, that experiment can sharpen, refine, and extend experience and correct our conception of it, that a scientific theory of an aspect of nature cannot be accepted until it has been somehow ‘confirmed’ by experiment. It does not follow that theory and experiment climb hand in hand up Jacob’s ladder. It does not follow that experiments as an end in themselves are necessarily beneficial to anyone except, it may be hoped, those who perform them. It does not even follow that the theorist should scrupulously respect all such experimental data as may bear upon the branch of natural science he is trying to develop.
Histone Variants and Complexes Involved in Their Exchange

In contrast to canonical histones, which are assembled into nucleosomes during DNA replication, histone variants can be incorporated into specific regions of the genome throughout the cell cycle. Recent findings suggest that histone variants associate with factors mediating their deposition into specialized chromatin domains. The mechanisms of their targeted deposition, their turnover, and their posttranslational modification are not yet fully understood. Emerging evidence indicates that histone variants and associated factors are essential for the epigenetic control of gene expression and other cellular responses. Thus, histone variants and complexes involved in their exchange are likely to play major roles in controlling chromosomal architecture, and their deregulation is expected to be linked to cancers, infertility, mental disorders, ageing, and degenerative diseases.
Exophytic malignant brainstem mixed glioma in an adult: A case report

Anaplastic mixed gliomas are rare tumors that occur mostly in the cerebral hemispheres. They have a distinctive histological appearance characterized by the presence of two or more glial cellular constituents. The incidence of malignant mixed glioma of the brainstem and posterior fossa is extremely low. The authors report an unusual case of an exophytic malignant mixed glioma. Following subtotal resection, the patient received conventional radiotherapy, but continued to deteriorate, and died five months after surgery. The extensive literature review focuses on histopathology, clinical features, natural history, and possible treatment modalities of this unusual neoplasm.