cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Quelling the storm: utilization of sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor signaling to ameliorate influenza virus-induced cytokine storm

Initial and early tissue injury associated with severe influenza virus infection is the result of both virus-mediated lysis of infected pulmonary cells coupled with an exuberant immune response generated against the virus. The excessive host immune response associated with influenza virus infection has been termed “cytokine storm.” Therapies that target virus replication are available; however, the selective pressure by such antiviral drugs on the virus often results in mutation and the escape of virus progeny now resistant to the antiviral regimen, thereby rendering such treatments ineffective. This event highlights the necessity for developing novel methods to combat morbidity and mortality caused by influenza virus infection. One potential method is restricting the host’s immune response. However, prior treatment regimens employing drugs like corticosteroids that globally suppress the host’s immune response were found unsatisfactory in large part because they disrupted the host’s ability to control virus replication. Here, we discuss a novel therapy that utilizes sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) receptor signaling that has the ability to significantly limit immunopathologic injury caused by the host’s innate and adaptive immune response, thereby significantly aborting morbidity and mortality associated with influenza virus infection. Moreover, S1P analog therapy allows for sufficient anti-influenza T cell and antibody formation to control infection. We review the anti-inflammatory effects of S1P signaling pathways and how modulation of these pathways during influenza virus infection restricts immunopathology. Finally, we discuss that combinatorial administration of S1P simultaneously with a current antiviral enhances the treatment efficacy for virulent influenza virus infections above that of either drug treatment alone. Interestingly, the scope of S1P receptor therapy reported here is likely to extend beyond influenza virus infection and could prove useful for the treatment of multiple maladies like other viral infections and autoimmune diseases where the host’s inflammatory response is a major component in the disease process.
Monitoring and Analysis of Gravel-Packing Procedures To Explain Well Performance

Gravel-packed gas wells completed in the Gulf of Mexico since 1980 were reviewed to build a selective database for a completion-effectiveness study. Gas wells with clean, uniform sands were selected for analysis. Significant monitoring data identified were injectivity tests at different points during the completion and fluid loss rates (barrels per hour). Injectivity before gravel pacing and productivity after gravel pacing were classified according to sidewall-core permeabilities. Different gravel-pack preparation and execution techniques were reviewed. Fluid-loss-control pills were identified as the greatest source of damage restricting gravel-packed well productivity. Injectivity tests and sidewall-core permeabilities provide valuable information for monitoring well completion procedures.
U.S. farm women's participation in breast cancer screening practices.

BACKGROUND: Surveys of women in the general population indicate that women are being screened for breast cancer at a much lower rate than recommended. There has been a concern that women living in rural areas may be screened for breast cancer even less often than women in urban or suburban areas because of reduced access to health practitioners. METHODS: A random sample of farm women age 40 years or older from 4 rural counties in Michigan was surveyed on knowledge, attitudes, and use of breast cancer screening. RESULTS: Six hundred eighty farm women completed a questionnaire. This was a response rate of 63.8%. The percentages of farm women who reported ever having had a mammogram, having had a mammogram in the past 3 years, and having had a mammogram in the last year were 80.6, 73.7, and 51.9%, respectively. The frequency of clinical breast examinations parallelled mammography usage at slightly higher percentages. Mammogram usage increased with higher education, income, and insurance coverage. Usage decreased in women age 75 years or older (ever 63.1%, in the last 3 years 58.2%, and in the last year 40.4%). Farm women were generally knowledgeable about symptoms and signs of breast cancer and understood the benefit of screening. There was, however, a range of answers on when to start or stop having a mammogram. Among farm women who reported not having a mammogram recently, the most important reasons were: haven't had any problems (29.4%), wasn't recommended by a doctor (14.3%), and procrastinated (11.3%). CONCLUSIONS: Farm women in this survey reported having had breast cancer screening at rates similar to or above those in the general population. Because of a limited response rate (63.5%) and the relative affluence of the farming community in the 4 counties surveyed, these results are probably not generalizable to all populations of farm or rural women.
Central Electric-Motoring-Assisted Handling Control System for Electrified Vehicles

This paper presents the development of a central electric-motoring-assisted vehicle handling control system. The system is designed for electrified vehicles that are configured with axle-based electric-motoring capability. By networking the electric motor control with differential brake actuation, the system improves the performance of vehicle handling control in dynamic vehicle maneuvers while assuring satisfactory drive comfort and actuation smoothness. A torque vectoring scheme is thus achieved with coordinated vehicle yaw control by brake and traction control by active torque compensation from the electrified powertrain. Based on regular electrified vehicle architecture, the complexity and consistency problems associated with the torque vectoring coordination are solved at no additional cost. The proposed control technology not only extends the capability of the brake-based vehicle dynamic controls in maneuverability enhancement but retains a larger stability margin through dynamic handling courses as well.
Efficacy of pneumatic compression stocking prophylaxis in the prevention of deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism following 139 lumbar laminectomies with instrumented fusions.

Objective:Low-dose heparin (LDH) regimens reduce the frequency of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) in spinal surgery but pose a risk of postoperative hemorrhage threatening neurologic function. Pneumatic compression stocking (CS) could provide an alternative means of mechanic
The Impact of Childhood Cancer on the Family

Although a number of investigators have begun to examine the effects of childhood cancer on the family, the relationship between family adjustment and long-term psychosocial outcome is not well understood. The present study explored the relationship betwecn various facets of adaptation to cancer and psychosocial outcome variables asscssed in survivorhood. For 7- four children and their parents were asscssed two years after the children had completed treatment. Parental reactions to the child's illness were related to a variety of psychosocial variables. Most important, parental coping was associated with the long-term adjustment of both parents and child. Also, the amount of emotional distress that parents ex erienced was related to their ability to establish and maintain socially supportive ties with other people.
Developing new diagnostic devices for single cell cancer profiling

Detection of trace numbers of cancer cells is crucial for the recovery of the patients who have undergone drastic chemo or radio therapies. Attempting to diagnose complex cancer phenotypes clinicians face multiple problems, e.g.: the heterogeneity of cancer entities, the plasticity of the genotypes and phenotypes of cancer cells, and the low number of cancer cells relative to the normal cells in post-therapy samples. These problems are approached by molecular genetics studies, molecular biomarkers, imaging and importantly, the development of new devices suited to perform accurate, high-throughput quantitative and qualitative analysis of specimens. Interdisciplinary collaborations and the fusion of basic and applied research aimed towards advancing innovation have led to valuable improvements for clinical diagnostics. This paper highlights current advances in developing microfluidic devices for single cell or small sample analysis in biomedicine.
FUNCTIONAL DISSECTION OF SIRT6: IDENTIFICATION OF DOMAINS THAT REGULATE HISTONE DEACETYLASE ACTIVITY AND CHROMATIN LOCALIZATION

The mammalian sirtuin SIRT6 is a site-specific histone deacetylase that regulates chromatin structure. SIRT6 is implicated in fundamental biological processes in aging, including maintaining telomere integrity, fine-tuning aging-associated gene expression programs, preventing genomic instability, and maintaining metabolic homeostasis. Despite these important functions, the basic molecular determinants of SIRT6 enzymatic function--including the mechanistic and regulatory roles of specific domains of SIRT6--are not well understood. Sirtuin proteins consist of a conserved central 'sirtuin domain'--thought to comprise an enzymatic core--flanked by variable N- and C-terminal extensions. Here, we report the identification of novel functions for the N- and C-terminal domains of the human SIRT6 protein. We show that the C-terminal extension (CTE) of SIRT6 contributes to proper nuclear localization but is dispensable for enzymatic activity. In contrast, the N-terminal extension (NTE) of SIRT6 is critical for chromatin association and intrinsic catalytic activity. Surprisingly, mutation of a conserved catalytic histidine residue in the core sirtuin domain not only abrogates SIRT6 enzymatic activity but also leads to impaired chromatin association in cells. Together, our observations define important biochemical and cellular roles of specific SIRT6 domains, and provide mechanistic insight into the potential role of these domains as targets for physiologic and pharmacologic modulation.
Trade, Globalization, Employment, and Wages: Evidence from grab MENA

ABSTRACT The purpose of this paper is to provide an evaluative analysis of the impact of trade and globalization on income, employment, and wages in the Arab countries of the Middle East and North Afiica (MENA) over the 1980–95 period. It first studies the behaviour of Arab barter, income, and factoral terms of trade, and analyzes their effects on Arab income. It then evaluates the extent of globalization in the Arab world, and considers its political significance. This is followed by the derivation of a relationship that will determine the behaviour of wages and employment, and a case study of the impact of trade on relative wages in Egypt. The paper closes with apolitical economy analysis of the autonomy of the Arab state in an era of globalization.
Normoglycemia in Nondiabetic African Americans Hospitalized With Heart Failure

Abstract Background In nondiabetic patients hospitalized with multiorgan failure, neurohormonal activation can lead to stress-induced hyperglycemia (> 140 mg/dL), as could Mg 2+ and Zn 2+ deficiencies. However, it is currently uncertain whether nondiabetic African Americans (AA) hospitalized with either chronic, decompensated biventricular failure (DecompHF) having hepatic and splanchnic congestion, ionized hypomagnesemia and hypozincemia, or acute left heart failure (LHF) would exhibit hyperglycemia at admission. Methods We retrospectively examined admission serum glucose in 77 AA patients without a history of diabetes, who were hospitalized with heart failure. This examination included 41 patients admitted during a 4-month period with chronic DecompHF and whose clinical presentation included findings of expanded intra- and extravascular volumes, together with echocardiographic evidence of marked tricuspid regurgitation and distended inferior vena cava, without respiratory variation. These patients were compared with 14 nondiabetic patients hospitalized during the same time period with acute LHF. We also studied admission serum glucose in 22 patients who were admitted with DecompHF having documented hypomagnesemia and hypozincemia. Results Admission serum glucose (mean ± standard error of mean) in patients with chronic DecompHF was 105.41 ± 4.08 mg/dL and was modestly elevated (140–160 mg/dL) in 3 patients. In those with acute LHF, glucose was 94.86 ± 3.96 mg/dL and did not exceed 140 mg/dL in any patient. Glucose (103.2 ± 4.3 mg/dL) was not elevated in patients having chronic DecompHF and reduced ionized Mg 2+ and serum Zn 2+ (0.44 ± 0.01 mmol/L and 69.6 ± 3.2 μ g/dL, respectively). Conclusions Hyperglycemia at admission was infrequent in nondiabetic AA patients hospitalized with either acute LHF or chronic DecompHF, which may have also included hypomagnesemia and hypozincemia. This calls into question the need for intensive insulin therapy in these patients.
Investigation of orientation effects on the electro-mechanical coupling behavior of 1-3 piezoelectric composites under compression

The electro-mechanical responses of 1–3 piezoelectric composites with PZT5A1 fibers embedded in an epoxy matrix are investigated under compressive loading. When the applied loading direction is not parallel to the polarization and fiber directions of the PZT fibers, the corresponding electrical and mechanical responses can be dramatically affected. Here both experimental testing and theoretical modeling are carried out to study such orientation effects on 1–3 piezoelectric composites. The testing results indicate that, as the loading direction changes from 0°, to 30°, 45°, 60° and finally 90° to the initial poling direction (which is also the PZT fiber direction), the magnitude of the electric displacement and mechanical strain of the system all decrease and the electrical response will diminish to zero at 90°. On the other hand, a two-level micromechanics theory based on irreversible thermodynamics and the physics of domain switching is applied to predict such orientation dependency of the electro-mechanical coupling behavior of the composite system. The first level is based on PZT fibers only which consist of parent and switched domains due to external loading, and the second level is based on a larger scale consisting of PZT fibers and an electrically inactive polymer matrix. The theoretical results are found to be in reasonable agreement with our experimental data.
Updated three-stage model for the peopling of the Americas.

Background We re-assess support for our three stage model for the peopling of the Americas in light of a recent report that identified nine non-Native American mitochondrial genome sequences that should not have been included in our initial analysis. Removal of these sequences results in the elimination of an early (i.e. ∼40,000 years ago) expansion signal we had proposed for the proto-Amerind population. Methodology/Findings Bayesian skyline plot analysis of a new dataset of Native American mitochondrial coding genomes confirms the absence of an early expansion signal for the proto-Amerind population and allows us to reduce the variation around our estimate of the New World founder population size. In addition, genetic variants that define New World founder haplogroups are used to estimate the amount of time required between divergence of proto-Amerinds from the Asian gene pool and expansion into the New World. Conclusions/Significance The period of population isolation required for the generation of New World mitochondrial founder haplogroup-defining genetic variants makes the existence of three stages of colonization a logical conclusion. Thus, our three stage model remains an important and useful working hypothesis for researchers interested in the peopling of the Americas and the processes of colonization.
Dielectric function and critical-point transitions in boron-doped graphite

Optical reflectivity spectra of graphite substitutionally doped with 0.5-at.% boron were measured in the energy range 0.1-6.0 eV and analyzed by the Kramers-Kronig method to yield the $q=0$ dielectric function. A screened free-carrier plasma edge occurs at 0.5 eV, and the onset of interband transitions indicates a Fermi-level shift of 0.2 eV. Thermoreflectance spectra in the range 0.3-1.5 eV reveal changes in critical-point transitions which are consistent with the shift in Fermi energy. Both experiments can be understood in terms of a rigid-band model with spatially uniform charge density. This result is in contrast to the situation in dilute intercalation compounds, in which interlayer screening must be accounted for.
Proteolytic cleavage of Livin (ML-IAP) in apoptotic melanoma cells potentially mediated by a non-canonical caspase.

Summary Background Several inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (IAPs) are cleaved during apoptosis. Studies of the melanoma-associated IAP (ML-IAP) Livin, using recombinant molecules, have implicated both caspases 3/7 and the serine protease Omi/HtrA2 in its proteolytic cleavage. Objective To characterize the apoptotic cleavage of Livin in melanocytic cells, and evaluate the role of known proteases. Methods We assessed the capacity of a variety of stimuli to induce Livin cleavage in human melanoma cell lines and normal human melanocytes. The role of caspases and Omi was examined using caspase inhibitors and RNAi, respectively. A potential caspase substrate was further examined by site-directed mutagenesis. Deletion mapping was used to identify the cleavage site. Results Livin cleavage was observed in multiple human melanoma cell lines in response to a variety of apoptotic stimuli (UVB, 4-TBP, cisplatin, TNF, Bax), and not affected by the addition of various protease inhibitors or RNAi-mediated silencing of Omi/HtrA2. Livin cleavage induced by 4-TBP, but not UVB or cisplatin, was blocked by the pan-caspase inhibitor zVAD-fmk. Mutation of Asp 52 to Glu in Livin did not affect cleavage, while either mutation of Asp 52 to Ala, deletion of Asp 52 , or deletion of the adjacent region (residues 53–61) abrogated cleavage. Conclusion Livin cleavage, induced by multiple apoptotic stimuli in melanoma cells, likely occurs in an Omi-independent fashion at residue 52 within its potential caspase substrate (DHVD 52 ). However, relative insensitivity of the apoptotic cleavage to zVAD-fmk, or Asp 52 to Glu mutation, suggests the involvement of a non-canonical caspase.
Characterization of the thin-film NbN superconductor for single-photon detection by transport measurements

Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, New Mexico 87545, USA(Dated: May 21, 2013)The fabrication of high-quality thin superconducting ﬁlms is essential for single-photon detectors. Theirdevice performance is crucially a ected by their material parameters, thus requiring reliable and nondestructivecharacterization methods after the fabrication and patterning processes. Important material parameters to knoware the resistivity, superconducting transition temperature, relaxation time of quasiparticles, and uniformity ofpatterned wires. In this work, we characterize micro-patterned thin NbN ﬁlms by using transport measurementsin magnetic ﬁelds. We show that from the instability of vortex motion at high currents in the ﬂux-ﬂow state ofthe IV characteristic, the inelastic life time of quasiparticles can be determined to be about 2 ns. Additionally,from the depinning transition of vortices at low currents, as a function of magnetic ﬁeld, the size distribution ofgrains can be extracted. This size distribution is found to be in agreement with the ﬁlm morphology obtainedfrom scanning electron microscopy and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy images.
Imaging findings in 22 cases of Schnitzler syndrome: characteristic para-articular osteosclerosis, and the “hot knees” sign differential diagnosis

Schnitzler syndrome is characterized by chronic urticaria, monoclonal gammopathy, and a risk of developing lymphoproliferative disorders. Patients frequently present with bone pain, fever, arthralgia, and lymphadenopathy. The purpose of this study is to retrospectively review and evaluate potentially attributable imaging abnormalities in a series of patients with clinically diagnosed Schnitzler syndrome. Clinical and pathological chart review identified 22 patients meeting Strasbourg criteria for Schnitzler syndrome. Imaging of these patients was retrospectively reviewed by a musculoskeletal radiologist and a radiology fellow to determine and characterize significant “positive” findings that could potentially be attributed to their primary disease process. Evidence of abnormal bone remodeling was present in 64 % (14/22) of patients with 40 bone abnormalities. Lesions were predominantly or entirely sclerotic and most commonly involved the distal femora (n = 11), proximal tibiae (nine), and innominate bones (six). Patterns of involvement were variable, but typically eccentrically intramedullary, cortical, and juxta-articular. Skeletal surveys and targeted radiographs identified only 37 % (10/27) of abnormal bones subsequently “positive” by additional modalities. PET and bone scans were all positive in patients with bone sclerosis (13/13 and 17/17 bone sites, respectively). Schnitzler syndrome often presents with characteristic osteosclerosis, most commonly around the knees and in the pelvis. In patients with a suggestive clinical history, the radiologist could direct an appropriate imaging strategy or might to be the first to suggest the diagnosis. Bone scan may be the most appropriate initial screening tool in suspected cases.
Secularization as Declining Religious Authority

On entend generalement par secularisation, le declin de l'autorite religieuse. L'article propose de souligner trois points : l'autorite religieuse mise en rapport avec les recents developpements en theorie sociale, l'etat actuel de la litterature relatant la secularisation, et une approche Weberienne de l'analyse sociologique de la religion. De nouvelles hypotheses concernant les relations entre la religion et les mouvements sociaux sont a etablir, afin de mieux saisir de maniere conceptuelle et empirique la secularisation au sein de societes, d'organisations et d'individus
Minimally invasive methods for bulbar urethral strictures: a survey of members of the American Urological Association.

Objective To determine current practice patterns, we mailed a questionnaire regarding urethral stricture evaluation, treatment, and follow-up to members of the American Urological Association (AUA). The minimally invasive methods used for treating and evaluating anterior urethral strictures vary widely among clinicians. Methods A nationwide survey of practicing members of the AUA was performed by mailed questionnaires. Surveys were mailed to 1262 Urologists, randomly selected from all 50 states. Four-hundred thirty-one urologists (34%) completed the questionnaire and formed the basis for our analysis. Results Most urologists (63%) treat 6-20 urethral strictures per year. The most common minimally invasive procedures used for managing anterior urethral strictures were dilation (92.8%), cold-knife optical internal urethrotomy (85.6%), endourethral stent (23.4%), laser urethrotomy (19%), and periurethral steroid injection after urethrotomy (7.9%). Most urologists will perform urethrotomy on bulbar strictures up to 2 cm (68.7%) and leave a Foley catheter in place for 1 week or less (86.5%). Technical method of urethrotomy is commonly 1 cut at 12 o'clock (86.3%) or radial cuts (12.1%). Recommended follow-up diagnostic tests after urethrotomy included flow rate (62.9%) and, to a lesser degree (with roughly one-third each), cystoscopy, urethral calibration, and the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS). Other tests, such as ultrasonography or urethrography were rarely used. Conclusion Our survey provides information regarding current minimally invasive management and follow-up practice strategies recommended by members of the AUA for anterior urethral strictures. Many common practices in the treatment of anterior urethral stricture disease are not supported in the literature.
Regenerated Spider Silk: Processing, Properties, and Structure

Spider dragline silk is Nature's high-performance protein fiber. This biomaterial has attracted much interest from scientists in various disciplines since it has become feasible to produce spider silk proteins by means of biotechnology. This article reports on research directed toward the regeneration of spider silk. A procedure is describedincluding spinning and postspinning processingthat produces fibers with promising mechanical properties from dissolved natural spider dragline silk. Tensile tests and structural characterization of the regenerated fibers illustrate correlations between the macroscopic and microscopic properties of the final material and between these properties and the fiber's processing history. Results point to the importance of an aqueous environment in the annealing of structure. The revealed structure−property relationships are expected to be of fundamental importance for the future design of man-made protein products.
Properties of Simulated Neurons from a Model of Primate Inferior Temporal Cortex

The physiological properties of neurons in inferior temporal (IT) cortex of the macaque monkey suggest that this cortical area plays a major role in visual pattern recognition. Based on the properties of IT, and one of its major sources of input, V4, a model is proposed that can account for some of the shape recognition properties of IT neurons including selectivity for complex visual stimuli and tolerance to the size and location of the stimuli. The model is composed of three components. First, stimulus location tolerance is modeled after the complex-cell-like properties observed in some V4 neurons. The second component of the model is an attentionally controlled scaling mechanism that facilitates size-invariant shape recognition. The transition from edge orientation-selective neurons in V4 to neurons with more complicated stimulus preference in IT is explained by the third component of the model, a competitive learning mechanism. Single-unit analysis of receptive field properties, stimulus selectivity, and stimulus size and position tolerance was performed on "neurons" from the simulation. Comparison of results from the simulation and a study of actual IT neurons shows that the set of mechanisms incorporated into the simulation is sufficient to emulate the physiological data.
Getting the Word Out on Stroke Guidelines

The causes, treatment, and outcome of acute ischemic stroke in the United States vary based on age, sex, severity, and geographic location of such patients.1 It is clearly established that older ischemic stroke patients on average have more severe strokes and a less favorable outcome than do younger stroke patients.2,3 They are less likely to receive intravenous tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) therapy and recommended secondary prevention therapies such as anticoagulation, antiplatelet agents, and statins.4,5. Similarly, women, patients living in rural areas, and those residing in the US South and Midwest are also less likely to receive intravenous tPA therapy than are men, urban/suburban residents, and those residing in other parts of the country.6 Previous studies have suggested potential explanations for these differences in outcomes and treatment among various patient groups.3,7 Data describing differences in treatment and outcomes among different patient groups are valuable because they identify gaps in the delivery of quality health care to various patient groups that can be addressed by future initiatives and programs designed to enhance care. Article see p 879 The Get With the Guidelines-Stroke (GTWG-Stroke) program is an important contributor to our understanding of stroke patient characteristics and care across a …
Allosteric Drug Discrimination Is Coupled to Mechanochemical Changes in the Kinesin-5 Motor Core

Essential in mitosis, the human Kinesin-5 protein is a target for >80 classes of allosteric compounds that bind to a surface-exposed site formed by the L5 loop. Not established is why there are differing efficacies in drug inhibition. Here we compare the ligand-bound states of two L5-directed inhibitors against 15 Kinesin-5 mutants by ATPase assays and IR spectroscopy. Biochemical kinetics uncovers functional differences between individual residues at the N or C termini of the L5 loop. Infrared evaluation of solution structures and multivariate analysis of the vibrational spectra reveal that mutation and/or ligand binding not only can remodel the allosteric binding surface but also can transmit long range effects. Changes in L5-localized 310 helix and disordered content, regardless of substitution or drug potency, are experimentally detected. Principal component analysis couples these local structural events to two types of rearrangements in β-sheet hydrogen bonding. These transformations in β-sheet contacts are correlated with inhibitory drug response and are corroborated by wild type Kinesin-5 crystal structures. Despite considerable evolutionary divergence, our data directly support a theorized conserved element for long distance mechanochemical coupling in kinesin, myosin, and F1-ATPase. These findings also suggest that these relatively rapid IR approaches can provide structural biomarkers for clinical determination of drug sensitivity and drug efficacy in nucleotide triphosphatases.
DUSTY DEBRIS DISKS AS SIGNPOSTS OF PLANETS: IMPLICATIONS FOR SPITZER SPACE TELESCOPE

Submillimeter and near-infrared images of cool dusty debris disks and rings suggest the existence of unseen planets. At dusty but nonimaged stars, semimajor axes of associated planets can be estimated from the dust temperature. For some young stars these semimajor axes are greater than 1'' as seen from Earth. Such stars are excellent targets for sensitive near-infrared imaging searches for warm planets. To probe the full extent of the dust and hence of potential planetary orbits, Spitzer observations should include measurements with the 160 μm filter.
Impact of EUV Mask Quality on Optical Inspection Sensitivity

EUV masks are exposed at a wavelength of 13.4 nm, but patterned mask inspection will be in the wavelength range of 157 nm to 257 nm. This large mismatch in wavelength raises questions as to whether the defects that are found in inspection will be the defects that print in a EUV exposure tool. This paper addresses part of this question by considering how small certain nuisance defects must be in order to not limit the optical inspection tool’s sensitivity. That is, the tool must be capable of finding critical printing defects and must not find nonprinting defects. A nuisance defect is considered to be one that the inspection tool may be sensitive to, but will not print on a wafer. We have used a 3D Maxwell equation simulator to simulate the inspection images obtained for a variety of nuisance defects of different types and sizes. We have done these calculations assuming that the EUV lithography will be performed at mask dimensions of 200 nm lines and spaces with a 4X mask, so the features would print at 50 nm lines and spaces. We have determined the critical size of such nuisance defects to be 40nm or larger, depending on defect type. Nuisance defects larger than about 40 nm square may limit the inspection tool’s sensitivity to printing defects. The ITRS roadmap specification for patterned defects at the 50 nm node is 40 nm. Therefore, the limit in size for such nuisance defects is not more stringent than the limits that must be met to match the patterned defect size specification. This work should provide guidance in developing a EUV mask specification that ensures that inspection tools will be able to meet the needs of EUV lithography. This work has been sponsored in part by NIST-ATP Cooperative Agreement #70NANB8H44024.
The absence of a pyrimidine dimer repair mechanism in mammalian mitochondria

We have investigated whether mammalian cells can repair pyrimidine dimers in their mitochondrial DNA which have been induced by ultraviolet light. The assay system is based upon the ability of the phage T4 UV endonuclease to nick covalently closed circular mitochondrial DNA that contain pyrimidine dimers. Our results show that dimers are not removed from the mitochondrial DNA of mouse L cells or human KB and HeLa cells. There is also no evidence for photoreactivation of mitochondrial DNA. Analyses of ethidium bromide-cesium chloride equilibrium density gradients of mitochondrial DNA isotopically labeled before and after exposure to ultraviolet light show that the total amount of DNA replication is depressed after exposure. In addition, an increase in the frequency of molecules banding at a position expected for intermediate replicating forms and open circular daughter molecules suggests that the rate of replication is slower (or arrested) in molecules with pyrimidine dimers. The absence of a significant amount of mixing of label incorporated before and after ultraviolet-irradiation is evidence against the occurrence of a large amount of genetic exchange between mitochondrial DNA molecules under these conditions.
Detection of open spina bifida by the lemon sign: Pathologic correlation

This study was undertaken to evaluate the association of medial displacement of the frontal bones of the fetal calvarium, the lemon sign, with open spina bifida (OSB) and to assess other pathologic findings associated with this change. During the past 8 years, 8 cases of OSB were seen in our institution. The lemon sign was retrospectively identified in 6/6 cases of OSB scanned before 22 weeks gestation, while it was not seen in 3/3 cases examined after 26 weeks. One case was evaluated with serial studies before and after 22 weeks. Scalloping of the frontal bones was associated with a wide variety of pathological findings. This sign may prove to be an important marker for OSB.
Rubiacearum Americanarum Magna Hama Pars XXII: Notable New Species of South American Coutarea, Morinda, Patima, and Rosenbergiodendron

Abstract Although Appunia Hook. f. has been synonymized by some recent authors with Morinda L., it is here provisionally recognized as a Neotropical genus, with the new species A. megalantha C. M. Taylor & Lorence found in wet lowland forests of northwestern Colombia, northern Peru, and perhaps Ecuador and easily separated from other species of Appunia by its climbing habit and relatively large corollas with six lobes. Two new species of Coutarea Aubl. with actinomorphic corollas expand its known diversity in seasonal and dry inter-Andean valleys, with C. coutaportloides C. M. Taylor of southwestern Ecuador and C. fuchsioides C. M. Taylor of northeastern Peru both similar to C. andrei Standl. A second species of Patima Aubl., P. minor C. M. Taylor (Hamelieae) from Guyana, doubles the number of species known and expands the morphological variation in the genus to include 4-merous flowers. A fourth species of Rosenbergiodendron Fagerl., R. reflexum C. M. Taylor & Lorence from Peru, has subglobose fruits and...
Isolation and Confinement Issues in Long Duration Spaceflight

As human kind prepares for further exploration of our solar system it is crucial to consider the wide range of potential psychological and physiological effects brought about by long duration spaceflight.12 This paper reviews efforts to address these effects in three areas: human factors design, physiological health, and psychosocial issues. Human factors design considerations include increasing user-friendliness and earth-like familiarity of space vehicles. Physiological concerns involve physical conditioning and reducing individual stress levels. Psycho social efforts have traditionally focused on crew selection in addition to coping with the stresses of isolation and confinement. However as the duration of spaceflight missions increases, it is necessary to consider a fourth factor: interpersonal dynamics. Interpersonal dynamics will influence communications, crew compatibility, and coping. The role of group psychology will become especially salient during prolonged confinement during longer missions. This heightened potential for interpersonal problems demands attention, with important implications for crew training and mission design. Furthermore, besides the stresses already faced by current spaceflight crews, crew members on longer duration missions will likely encounter reduced communication, increased stress - especially from homesickness - and difficulty maintaining motivation. While some countermeasures have previously been suggested - increased crew autonomy, selection of compatible crews, and training flight crews together to increase cohesiveness - a better understanding of social psychological issues during extended spaceflight is necessary. Thus as NASA and other space faring organizations prepare for longer duration missions, efforts undertaken now to develop preventative measures for mitigating psycho social challenges are far more preferable to the potentially much greater demands of managing and treating psychological crises real-time during a spaceflight mission.
Nanoscale block copolymer templates decorated by nanoparticle arrays

We present a novel one-step assembly process that encompasses in-situ formation of silver nanoparticles (NP), directed assembly of block copolymers into a perpendicular lamellar morphology, and NP organization into patterned arrays. This process utilizes organometallic precursors that thermally decompose and form spatially organized NP arrays on the free surface of the block copolymer. As NP concentration increases, the conversion of perpendicular to parallel lamellar morphology at the free surface slows down. A cell dynamical system (CDS) simulation captures the dynamics of this reorganization. The final structure is attractive for producing nanodevices because the surface is decorated by NP that are arranged in parallel arrays with tunable NP separation.
Modulation of the Mitotic Regulatory Network by APC-Dependent Destruction of the Cdh1 Inhibitor Acm1

Summary The completion of mitosis depends on protein ubiquitination by the anaphase-promoting complex (APC). The APC is activated by association with Cdc20 in midmitosis and Cdh1 in late mitosis and G1. Here, we show that in budding yeast the activation of APC Cdh1 is controlled in part by destruction of the Cdh1 inhibitor Acm1. We find that Acm1 uses pseudosubstrate and other sequence motifs to bind and inhibit Cdh1, but not Cdc20. Acm1 also contains a destruction sequence that promotes its ubiquitination by APC Cdc20 , resulting in the disappearance of Acm1 in early anaphase. Later in mitosis, Acm1 destruction is also promoted by APC Cdh1 . Finally, Cdk1-dependent phosphorylation of Acm1 modulates its localization and destruction. We conclude that ubiquitination of a Cdh1 inhibitor by APC Cdc20 helps establish the order of activation of the two APC isoforms. We also speculate that the ability of APC Cdh1 to target its own inhibitor enhances the bistability of the late mitotic regulatory system.
Lifestyle factors and oxidative stress in female infertility: is there an evidence base to support the linkage?

At present, between 10 to 15% of couples are infertile, and half of all infertility cases are credited to a female factor. Determination of the source of the problem may hold the key to improving fertility for women. Emerging research demonstrates that reactive oxygen species and oxidative stress (OS) have strong connections with female reproductive function; increases in OS which is associated with certain lifestyle factors can negatively impact female fertility. Lifestyle factors including being obese or underweight, exercising, cigarette smoking, alcohol and caffeine consumption, drug use, psychological stress and environmental and occupational exposures can all have adverse effects on fertility due to their complex interactions and impact exerted via OS on female reproductive processes. Our review highlights these linkages to explain their impact on female fertility, as well as provide suggestions to reduce OS and improve reproductive potential in women.
Development of a mathematical model for predicting electrically elicited quadriceps femoris muscle forces during isovelocity knee joint motion.

Direct electrical activation of skeletal muscles of patients with upper motor neuron lesions can restore functional movements, such as standing or walking. Because responses to electrical stimulation are highly nonlinear and time varying, accurate control of muscles to produce functional movements is very difficult. Accurate and predictive mathematical models can facilitate the design of stimulation patterns and control strategies that will produce the desired force and motion. In the present study, we build upon our previous isometric model to capture the effects of constant angular velocity on the forces produced during electrically elicited concentric contractions of healthy human quadriceps femoris muscle. Modelling the isovelocity condition is important because it will enable us to understand how our model behaves under the relatively simple condition of constant velocity and will enable us to better understand the interactions of muscle length, limb velocity, and stimulation pattern on the force produced by the muscle. An additional term was introduced into our previous isometric model to predict the force responses during constant velocity limb motion. Ten healthy subjects were recruited for the study. Using a KinCom dynamometer, isometric and isovelocity force data were collected from the human quadriceps femoris muscle in response to a wide range of stimulation frequencies and patterns. % error, linear regression trend lines, and paired t-tests were used to test how well the model predicted the experimental forces. In addition, sensitivity analysis was performed using Fourier Amplitude Sensitivity Test to obtain a measure of the sensitivity of our model's output to changes in model parameters. Percentage RMS errors between modelled and experimental forces determined for each subject at each stimulation pattern and velocity showed that the errors were in general less than 20%. The coefficients of determination between the measured and predicted forces show that the model accounted for ~86% and ~85% of the variances in the measured force-time integrals and peak forces, respectively. The range of predictive abilities of the isovelocity model in response to changes in muscle length, velocity, and stimulation frequency for each individual make it ideal for dynamic applications like FES cycling.
Acute lung injury induced by a commercial leather conditioner

Following a formulation change, a leather conditioner was involved in a 1992 nationwide outbreak of respiratory illness. We investigated the composition and toxicity of the conditioner produced before (previous product) and after (new product) the disease outbreak. The new product induced tachypnea, pulmonary edema, pulmonary hemorrhage, and sporadic deaths in exposed guinea pigs and rats. Ultrastructurally, these changes were associate with direct pulmonary cytotoxicity characterized by necrosis of alveolar type I cells and alveolar septal interstitial edema. Chemical analyses suggested major alterations in the fluorohydrocarbon constituents in the new formulation of the leather conditioner. While these alterations could not be specifically identified, they appeared to include changes from fluoralkanes to fluoroalkenes, fluorophenyl, and/or fluoroalcohol compounds. Changes in solvent composition were consistent with traces of 2-butoxyethanol and isomers of dipropylene glycol methyl ether, and additional C10-C12 alkanes. In this study, we demonstrated the toxicity of the new product in laboratory animals. Some of the altered constituents of the new product have been identified and are potential candidates for additional investigations to identify specific etiologic agents.
Quantitative multiparametric MRI of ovarian cancer.

Purpose To identify parameters associated with ovarian malignancy using multiparametric quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Materials and Methods After Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval, women with ovarian masses underwent preoperative imaging with 3 T MRI. Dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE)-MRI with pharmacokinetic modeling, quantitative T2 mapping, and diffusion-weighted imaging with quantitative mapping of the water diffusion parameters were performed. Ovarian masses had one or more discreet regions of interest, categorized as cystic or solid, and histologically diagnosed as benign or malignant. Mean region of interest (ROI) values were compared between benign and malignant masses using generalized estimating equations. In addition, we compared classification accuracy for the mean ROI value to a combination of histogram characteristics (standard deviation, skewness, and kurtosis) from T2 map ROIs using logistic regression and ROC curve. The significance level was P = 0.05. Results Several DCE-MRI parameters differentiated solid benign from malignant masses. Toft's rate constant (kep) was significantly higher in malignant masses (P < 0.001), as well as quantitative T2 values (P = 0.003), and signal intensity on T2 weighted imaging (P = 0.008). A linear combination of the mean, standard deviation, skewness, and kurtosis of T2 within solid regions (area under the curve [AUC] 0.90) provided better classification accuracy than the mean of T2 alone (AUC 0.81). Conclusion Quantitative parameters from DCE-MRI and T2 mapping can differentiate benign from malignant ovarian masses. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2013;38:1501–1509. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Overcoming suppression in order to remember: contributions from anterior cingulate and ventrolateral prefrontal cortex.

The ability to remember is often compromised by competition from irrelevant memories. However, acts of selective remembering can alter the competitive relationship between memories; memories that are selected against are weakened, whereas those that are retrieved are strengthened. Whereas the weakening of selected-against memories is typically evidenced by subsequently poorer recall of these memories, the present study tested the hypothesis that when previously selected-against memories can subsequently be successfully retrieved, such acts of successful retrieval are associated with engagement of neurobiological mechanisms that serve to detect and overcome competition. Consistent with this hypothesis, fMRI revealed that anterior cingulate cortex and right ventrolateral prefrontal cortex are differentially engaged during successful retrieval of previously selected-against memories, and that their engagement is directly related to the magnitude of weakening that is induced by prior acts of selecting against these memories.
Improving the Development of Student's Research Questions and Hypotheses in an Introductory Business Research Methods Course

In an introductory research methods course, students often develop research questions and hypotheses that are vague or confusing, do not contain measurable concepts, and are too narrow in scope or vision. Because of this, the final research projects often fail to provide useful information or address the overall research problem. A Lesson Study approach was used to develop a new lesson that models the development of research questions and hypotheses and provides multiple opportunities for students to practice this skill. Two tools were also developed to help students navigate this process, and the learning outcomes of the lesson were clearly defined. To assess the effectiveness of this lesson 122 research proposals generated by student research teams before and after implementation of the new lesson were evaluated using a grading rubric based on the learning outcomes. There were statistically significant improvements in three of the five learning outcomes.