cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Catalytic 1,3-Difunctionalization via Oxidative C–C Bond Activation

Electronegative substituents arrayed in 1,3-relationships along saturated carbon frameworks can exert strong influence over molecular conformation due to dipole minimization effects. Simple and general methods for incorporation of such functional group relationships could thus provide a valuable tool for modulating molecular shape. Here, we describe a general strategy for the 1,3-oxidation of cyclopropanes using aryl iodine(I–III) catalysis, with emphasis on 1,3-difluorination reactions. These reactions make use of practical, commercially available reagents and can engage a variety of substituted cyclopropane substrates. Analysis of crystal and solution structures of several of the products reveal the consistent effect of 1,3-difluorides in dictating molecular conformation. The generality of the 1,3-oxidation strategy is demonstrated through the catalytic oxidative ring-opening of cyclopropanes for the synthesis of 1,3-fluoroacetoxylated products, 1,3-diols, 1,3-amino alcohols, and 1,3-diamines.
Modeling and design of integrated sensing, planning and control in robotic manufacturing work-cells

Abstract The analytical and robust integration of low-level system sensing and simple control with high-level system behavior and perception is a challenging problem in the study of intelligent control. This paper presents a novel and generic technique on modeling and design to solve the problem in an intelligent, robotic manufacturingsystem. We propose Max-Plus Algebra model combined with event-based planning and control to form an advanced mechanism to efficiently integrate task scheduling, sensing, planning and real-time execution so that task scheduling, which usually deals with discrete events, as well as action planning, which usually deals with continuous events, can be treated in a unified analytical model, and the design of task synchronization becomes much easier. More importantly, this unified analytic model naturally build up continuous interaction between discrete and continuous events. This characteristic of the model allows the designed automated system to intelligently cope with unexpected events and uncertainties during well-scheduled tasks and improves the robustness and reliability of the manufacturing system. A robotic manufacturing system working on a part-sorting task is used to illustrate the proposed approach. The experimental results successfully demonstrate the advantages of the proposed approach.
Toward a more biologically accurate model of diffusion: adhesion and collisions:

In single-file dynamics, Brownian particles (referred to as tracer or tagged particles) diffuse and collide with each other in one-dimensional domains. If the average particle density is kept fixed during the diffusion, the collisions between the tracer particles result in their famous anomalous sub-diffusion behavior with time to the one half dependence. Many systems in nature are found to obey single-file dynamics, such as ion transport processes, and inter-particle adhesion plays a crucial role, either structurally or functionally, in the diffusion of such systems; however, the exact effect of adhesion on the diffusion has not been studied so far. We have examined the effect of adhesion on the collective diffusion of single-file systems. Here, we extend previous work where we perform large-scale numerical simulations that utilize Monte Carlo techniques and high-performance computing resources to examine the effect of adhesion on the diffusion of the tracer particles in systems that obey single-file dyn...
Best Practice Recommendations for Diagnosis and Management of Helicobacter pylori-Synthesizing the Guidelines.

Purpose of review Three guidelines on Helicobacter pylori have been published recently with recommendations that differ from past guidelines. In this review, we summarize the Toronto consensus statement, the Maastricht V/Florence consensus report and the American College of Gastroenterology guidelines on H. pylori, comparing and contrasting the recommendations. We also provide a proposed approach integrating the information from all three guidelines.
Insulin-like growth factor receptor signaling regulates working memory, mitochondrial metabolism, and amyloid-β uptake in astrocytes

Abstract Objective A decline in mitochondrial function and biogenesis as well as increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) are important determinants of aging. With advancing age, there is a concomitant reduction in circulating levels of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) that is closely associated with neuronal aging and neurodegeneration. In this study, we investigated the effect of the decline in IGF-1 signaling with age on astrocyte mitochondrial metabolism and astrocyte function and its association with learning and memory. Methods Learning and memory was assessed using the radial arm water maze in young and old mice as well as tamoxifen-inducible astrocyte-specific knockout of IGFR (GFAP-CreTAM/igfrf/f). The impact of IGF-1 signaling on mitochondrial function was evaluated using primary astrocyte cultures from igfrf/f mice using AAV-Cre mediated knockdown using Oroboros respirometry and Seahorse assays. Results Our results indicate that a reduction in IGF-1 receptor (IGFR) expression with age is associated with decline in hippocampal-dependent learning and increased gliosis. Astrocyte-specific knockout of IGFR also induced impairments in working memory. Using primary astrocyte cultures, we show that reducing IGF-1 signaling via a 30–50% reduction IGFR expression, comparable to the physiological changes in IGF-1 that occur with age, significantly impaired ATP synthesis. IGFR deficient astrocytes also displayed altered mitochondrial structure and function and increased mitochondrial ROS production associated with the induction of an antioxidant response. However, IGFR deficient astrocytes were more sensitive to H2O2-induced cytotoxicity. Moreover, IGFR deficient astrocytes also showed significantly impaired glucose and Aβ uptake, both critical functions of astrocytes in the brain. Conclusions Regulation of astrocytic mitochondrial function and redox status by IGF-1 is essential to maintain astrocytic function and coordinate hippocampal-dependent spatial learning. Age-related astrocytic dysfunction caused by diminished IGF-1 signaling may contribute to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease and other age-associated cognitive pathologies.
Recognizing the Problem of Suicidality in Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Until recently, suicidality in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) was rarely discussed. A cluster of recent articles, including an article by Culpin et al.1 in this issue, has highlighted not only that suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts can occur in adolescents and young adults with ASD, but also that suicidality is likely more common in ASD than in the general population. Retrospectively, the lack of focus on suicidality in ASD seems surprising when self-injurious behavior has long been a focus of attention in ASD.2 The emerging studies indicate that the increased risk of self-injurious behavior in younger and less cognitively able children with ASD3,4 is matched by an increased risk of suicidality in those at a more advanced developmental level.
A Boundary Element Algorithm for Plate Bending Problems Based on Cauchy’s Integral Formula

A representation for plate bending solutions (Kirchhoff-plate theory) in terms of two arbitrary complex valued functions is considered. The complex functions are chosen in the form of Cauchy integrals which are discretized along the boundary of the plate. Using the complex representation we a priori ensure the satisfaction of the homogeneous plate equation. An inhomogeneous (particular) solution is added. The constructed boundary functions for the deflection, the moments and the shear forces are compatible.
Fertilizer Use Efficiency of nano fertilizers of micronutrients foliar application on Jerusalem artichoke

field experiment was carried out in one of the fields of plot 158 district 41 Husseiniya, township of Taliaa, Babylon Governorate, to study fertilizer use efficiency of nano fertilizers micronutrients foliar application on Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus L.).The experiment included 17 treatments of spraying the nano-fertilizes micronutrients of nano iron 13% Fe ,nano zinc 20% Zn, nano copper 15% Cu and nano manganese 18% Mn, single spray, dual, triple and quadruple combinations, as well as a quadratic combination of a traditional source as well as the treatment of water-only control. In nutrients content in arial parts and tubers, nutrients uptake, total uptake ,FUE,MNUE. RCBD design with three replicates, and the solutions were sprayed early in the morning after 60 days of planting and at 25, 50, 75 and 100 g fertilizer 100 L-1 Water for to spray the first, second, third and fourth respectively, and according to the recommendation by 1 kg Naon fertilizers h-1, and another 400 liters of spray solution h-1.The results of the duncan test showed a probability level of 0.05 The superiority of the single spray treatments followed by the treatment of nano (Zn+Cu+Fe+Mn) in micronutrients content of arial parts and tubers of zinc, copper, iron, manganese and total uptake, While achieved the nutrient use efficiency of nano-zinc, nano-copper, nano-iron and nano-manganese (93.10, 85.00, 99.00 and 85.50%) sequentially. For individual spray treatments and (91.60, 81.30, 91.85, and 83.40%) sequentially for the treatment of nano spray common quartet (Zn + Cu + Fe + Mn).
Race/ethnicity and lung cancer survival in the United States: a meta-analysis

Lung cancer mortality has been shown to vary by race and ethnicity in cancer registries; however, studies often do not account for smoking status. We sought to summarize the independent contribution of race and ethnicity to survival in US lung cancer patients, accounting for important variables including smoking status. PubMed was used to identify 1,877 potentially eligible studies of which 27 were included. Studies were excluded if they did not account for age, race and/or ethnicity, and smoking status. Fixed- and random-effects meta-analyses were conducted using the reported adjusted hazard ratios (HR) of Hispanic ethnicity and Asian and African-American race compared to Non-Hispanic whites (NHWs) on overall survival in lung cancer. Hispanic ethnicity and Asian race were associated with decreased adjusted risk of death (Hispanic: Nstudies = 5, Nsubjects = 108,810, HR = 0.95, 95% CI 0.90–1.00; Asian: Nstudies = 6, Nsubjects = 128,950, HR = 0.86, 95% CI 0.81–0.90). The results were similar when excluding studies of solely never-smokers. There was no significant difference in survival between African-American and white race after adjustment (Nstudies = 10, Nsubjects = 131,378, HR = 0.98, 95% CI 0.96–1.01). Other prognostic factors were female gender (HR = 0.88, 95% CI 0.87–0.89), unmarried status (HR = 1.08, 95% CI 1.04–1.11), ever-smoking status (HR = 1.11, 95% CI 1.08–1.15), having comorbidities (HR = 1.39, 95% CI 1.24–1.56), and treatment receipt (surgery: HR = 0.33, 95% CI 0.32–0.34; radiation: HR = 0.87, 95% CI 0.85–0.88; chemotherapy: HR = 0.64, 95% CI 0.63–0.65). Even after adjustment for clinical factors and smoking status, Hispanics and Asians experienced improved survival compared to NHWs. Future studies are needed to elucidate the drivers of these survival disparities.
Reduced Hippocampal and Amygdala Volumes as Mechanisms of Stress Sensitization to Depression following Childhood Violence Exposure

Abstract OBJECTIVE Stressful life events are more likely to trigger depression among individuals exposed to childhood adversity. However, the mechanisms underlying this stress sensitization remain largely unknown. Any such mechanism must be altered by childhood adversity and interact with recent stressful life events, magnifying their association with depression. This study investigated whether reduced hippocampal and amygdala volumes are mechanisms of stress sensitization following childhood violence exposure. METHODS A sample of 149 youth (aged 8-17 years), with (N=76) and without (N=73) exposure to physical abuse, sexual abuse, or domestic violence participated. Participants completed a structural MRI scan and were assessed for symptoms of depression. Approximately two years later, stressful life events were assessed along with depression symptoms in 120 participants (57 violence-exposed). RESULTS Childhood violence exposure was associated with smaller hippocampal and amygdala volumes. Stressful life events occurring during the follow-up period predicted worsening depression over time, and this association was magnified among those with smaller hippocampal and amygdala volumes. Significant moderated mediation models revealed indirect effects of violence exposure on increasing depression over time through hippocampal and amygdala volumes, particularly among youths who experienced more stressful life events. CONCLUSIONS These results provide novel evidence for reduced hippocampal and amygdala volumes as mechanisms of stress sensitization to depression following exposure to violence. These findings suggest that hippocampal and amygdala-mediated emotional and cognitive processes may contribute to vulnerability to stressful life events following childhood violence exposure.
A Preliminary Assessment of Abdominal Wall Tension in Patients Undergoing Retromuscular Hernia Repair

A common technique for ventral and incisional hernia repair is the retrorectus repair (Rives-Stoppa). The posterior rectus sheath is incised bilaterally, and mesh is placed retromuscularly. There is little information on how this component separation technique affects abdominal wall tension. We evaluated abdominal wall tension in patients undergoing retrorectus repair of abdominal wall hernias. Patients undergoing retrorectus repair of their ventral hernias were enrolled in a prospective, Institutional Review Board-approved protocol to measure abdominal wall tension from 8/1/2013 to 8/2/2017. Demographic information and operative details were documented. Abdominal wall tensions were measured using scales attached to Kocher clamps that were clamped to the fascia and brought together in the midline. Measurements were made before and after incising the posterior rectus sheaths. Data were analyzed with a repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA), and differences between individual groups were analyzed by least square differences. Forty-five patients had tension measurements. Average age was 58 years (range 29-81)-78% Caucasian, 51% female, an average body mass index (BMI) of 35 kg/m2 (range 20-62), and 38% recurrent hernias. The average hernia defect was 121.9 cm2, and the average mesh size was 607.8 cm2. There was a significant reduction in tension after bilateral posterior rectus sheath incision (3.1 lbs vs. 5.6 lbs, p<0.0001). In this evaluation, abdominal wall tension measurements are shown to be a feasible adjunct during open hernia repair with retrorectus repair. Transection of the posterior rectus sheath decreases tension during hernia repair and may help guide surgeons regarding when to use this procedure.
Specific heat of amorphous Mo x Ge 1-x through the metal-insulator transition

We have made absolute specific-heat measurements through the metal-insulator transition in thin-film ${\mathrm{Mo}}_{x}{\mathrm{Ge}}_{1\ensuremath{-}x}$. We report results for $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ and $\ensuremath{\beta}$ and infer the thermodynamic electronic density of states. The density of states shows no critical behavior at the metal-insulator transition. There is also evidence of anomalous excess specific heat below the metal-insulator transition. We compare our results to current theories on localization and electron interactions.
A JModelica.org Library for Power Grid Dynamic Simulation with Wind Turbine Control

With increasing penetration of intermittent generation in power systems, it becomes essential to develop an integrated component-oriented modeling, simulation, and optimization tool for renewable energy resources to accurately capture the dynamics of large-scale power systems. Being an open, straightforward specification of differential-algebraic equations and discrete variables for component-oriented modeling and simulation of complex system, Modelica has been successfully used in robotics, automotive, aircraft, and communication systems, and is now being considered for use in electric power systems. In this paper, we show the initial efforts in the creation of OpenRES—an open-source JModelica.org library for renewable energy resources with their control blocks, and demonstrate the use of wind-farm frequency and voltage control functions in power grid dynamic simulation that is performed on the New England IEEE 39-bus test system.
Advanced heart failure and transplant in congenital heart disease.

### Learning objectives Due to advances in medical and surgical palliations, >90% of children born with congenital heart disease (CHD) are expected to survive into adulthood.1 2 Recent studies estimate a prevalence of CHD in the adult population of approximately 3000 per million individuals in developed countries.2 Although survival has improved significantly, patients with adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) often suffer from heart failure (HF) due to residual haemodynamic or anatomic abnormalities and sequelae of their defects or surgeries. HF is unfortunately the leading cause of death in patients with ACHD and accounts for approximately 20% of deaths in this population.3 Congenital heart defects vary widely in their complexity and prognosis. For example, patients with an isolated ventricular septal defect (VSD) may not require any intervention if the defect closes spontaneously or is very small, may develop HF and require catheter-based or surgical closure in early infancy if the defect is moderate or large, or may develop severe pulmonary hypertension and Eisenmenger syndrome if the defect is large and uncorrected. Care of the patient with ACHD thus requires knowledge of the spectrum of congenital diagnoses, interventions and both natural and postintervention histories of the diagnoses. Patients with ACHD with HF often evade early detection and care. Some patients may have gaps in knowledge about their conditions,4 and many have …
Association of Adverse Events with Antibiotic Treatment for Urinary Tract Infection.

Background Little is known about the relative harms of different antibiotic regimens prescribed to treat uncomplicated urinary tract infection (UTI). We sought to compare the risk of adverse events associated with commonly-used oral antibiotic regimens for the outpatient treatment of uncomplicated UTI. Methods We identified 1,169,033 otherwise healthy, non-pregnant women aged 18-44 years with uncomplicated UTI who initiated an oral antibiotic with activity against common uropathogens from July 1, 2006 to September 30, 2015. We used propensity score-weighted Kaplan-Meier methods and Cox proportional hazards regression models to estimate the association between antibiotic agent and adverse events. Results Of two first-line agents, TMP/SMX (versus nitrofurantoin) was associated with higher risk of several adverse drug events including hypersensitivity reaction (hazard ratio [HR] 2.62, 95% CI 2.30-2.98), acute renal failure (HR 2.56, 95% CI 1.55-4.25), skin rash (HR 2.42, 95% CI 2.13-2.75), urticaria (HR 1.37, 95% CI 1.19-1.57), abdominal pain (HR 1.14, 95% CI 1.09-1.19), and nausea / vomiting (HR 1.18, 95% CI 1.10-1.28), but similar risk of potential microbiome-related adverse events. Compared to nitrofurantoin, non-first-line agents were associated with higher risk of several adverse drug events and potential microbiome-related adverse events including non-C. difficile diarrhea, C. difficile infection, vaginitis / vulvovaginal candidiasis, and pneumonia. Treatment duration modified the risk of potential microbiome-related adverse events. Conclusions The risks of adverse drug events and potential microbiome-related events differ widely by antibiotic agent and duration. These findings underscore the utility of using real-world data to fill evidentiary gaps related to antibiotic safety.
Body Mechanics and Posture

(1945). Body Mechanics and Posture. The Journal of Health and Physical Education: Vol. 16, No. 10, pp. 549-587.
Factor analysis of restricted and repetitive behaviors in autism using the autism diagnostic interview-R

The current study examined the factor structure of restricted and repetitive behaviors (RRB) in children with autism. Factor extraction procedures of 12 items from the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) were applied in N = 207 individuals with autism. Two interpretable factors were identified: Factor 1--repetitive sensory motor actions and Factor 2--resistance to change. There was a significant negative correlation between an index of level of adaptive functioning and Factor 1. Intraclass correlations were not significant for either factor in a subset of families with two or more siblings with autism (multiplex). No differences in scores were apparent for either factor when multiplex families and families containing only one affected individual with autism (singleton) were compared. RRB in autism are represented by two distinct factors which may reflect two separate groups within autism. Defining subgroups within autism will allow for reduction of clinical heterogeneity and enhance our ability to dissect the genetic etiology of this complex disorder.
The Cul De Sac of Race Preference Discourse

Affirmative action policy remains a contentious issue in public debate despite public endorsement by America’s leading institutions and validation by the United States Supreme Court. But the decades old disagreement is mired in an unproductive rhetorical stalemate marked by entrenched ideology rather than healthy dialogue. Instead of evolving, racial dialogue about the relevance of race in university admissions and hiring decisions is trapped in a cycle of resentment. In this article, I argue that the stagnation of race preference discourse arises because the basic rhetorical themes advanced by opponents have evolved little over 150 years since the racial reform efforts following the Civil War. Nineteenth-century opponents to the Freedmen’s Bureau, Negro citizenship, and Reconstruction era proposals deployed a host of arguments that bear a striking family resemblance to the modern arguments against race preferences. Rhetorical themes advanced by opponents in modern race preference discourse therefore generate resentment and skepticism among proponents because of this odious nineteenth-century pedigree, leading to a conversational impasse.A deepened understanding of this rhetorical pedigree is crucial to restoring public conversation on race preferences. Opponents of race preferences must understand that this pedigree taints the underlying merit of their arguments. Concurrently, proponents must recognize that the advancement of these themes does not automatically signal agreement with nineteenth-century conservative racial norms. Through acknowledgement and understanding, we can stop the retreat into traditional ideologies and meet in the middle for a renewed and meaningful discussion of race preferences. This article begins by discussing four dominant rhetorical themes deployed by opponents in the modern race preference debate, and compares and contrasts those modern arguments with their nineteenth-century counterparts. Next, I discuss the effects of the prevailing modern theme and motivations driving modern policy positions. Finally, I argue that racial progress demands continued dialogue and offer how public conversation on race preferences ought to proceed in the wake of these revelations.
Resilient network infrastructures for global grid computing

Summary form only given. Grid computing is defined as "coordinated resource sharing and problem solving in dynamic, multi-institutional virtual organizations". The transport network infrastructure represents one of the main resources to be shared. Emerging high capacity intelligent grid transport network infrastructures, such as optical transport networks based on generalized multiprotocol label switching (GMPLS) and automatically switched optical networks/automatically switched transport networks (ASON/ASTN), are fostering the expansion of grid computing from local area networks (LAN) (i.e., cluster grid) to wide area networks (WAN) (i.e., global grid). Indeed they are able to guarantee the required quality of service (QoS) to heterogeneous grid applications that share the same grid network infrastructure. The tutorial addresses one particular aspect of the grid transport network QoS: resilience, i.e. the ability to overcome failures. In particular, it gives an overview of the current efforts for guaranteeing grid application resilience in spite of different types of failures, such as network infrastructure failures or computer crashes. Finally, it shows that, by tailoring the utilized recovery scheme to the type of failure that occurred, it is possible to optimize the failure recovery process.
Simulation-sound NIZK proofs for a practical language and constant size group signatures

Non-interactive zero-knowledge proofs play an essential role in many cryptographic protocols. We suggest several NIZK proof systems based on prime order groups with a bilinear map. We obtain linear size proofs for relations among group elements without going through an expensive reduction to an NP-complete language such as Circuit Satisfiability. Security of all our constructions is based on the decisional linear assumption. The NIZK proof system is quite general and has many applications such as digital signatures, verifiable encryption and group signatures. We focus on the latter and get the first group signature scheme satisfying the strong security definition of Bellare, Shi and Zhang [7] in the standard model without random oracles where each group signature consists only of a constant number of group elements. We also suggest a simulation-sound NIZK proof of knowledge, which is much more efficient than previous constructions in the literature. Caveat: The constants are large, and therefore our schemes are not practical. Nonetheless, we find it very interesting for the first time to have NIZK proofs and group signatures that except for a constant factor are optimal without using the random oracle model to argue security.
RANDOM MATRIX THEORY AND THREE-DIMENSIONAL QCD

We suggest that the spectral properties near zero virtuality of three-dimensional QCD follow from a Hermitian random matrix model. The exact spectral density is derived for this family of random matrix models for both even and odd number of fermions. New sum rules for the inverse powers of the eigenvalues of the Dirac operator are obtained. The issue of anomalies in random matrix theories is discussed.
‘Can I afford the diet? 1988’.: BRITISH DIETETIC ASSOCIATION POSITION PAPER

In 1986 the British Dietetic Association issued the Discussion Paper ‘Can I Afford the Diet’ which outlined the concern that Dietitians felt regarding the ability of people on low incomes to eat either a healthy or a therapeutic diet. Further to the provisions of the Social Security Act 1986, which came into effect in April 1988, evidence from costings indicates that a healthy diet for a normal person can cost half the weekly income of an individual on Income Support and that therapeutic diets, e.g. those for patients with diabetes mellitus and cystic fibrosis can cost substantially more than this. The outcome is that individuals cannot be expected to adhere to dietary recommendations, thus endangering their health. Additional reductions in entitlements to free school meals, free milk and vitamins are also of concern and the effects of these reductions should be assessed.
Coresets for visual summarization with applications to loop closure

In continuously operating robotic systems, efficient representation of the previously seen camera feed is crucial. Using a highly efficient compression coreset method, we formulate a new method for hierarchical retrieval of frames from large video streams collected online by a moving robot. We demonstrate how to utilize the resulting structure for efficient loop-closure by a novel sampling approach that is adaptive to the structure of the video. The same structure also allows us to create a highly-effective search tool for large-scale videos, which we demonstrate in this paper. We show the efficiency of proposed approaches for retrieval and loop closure on standard datasets, and on a large-scale video from a mobile camera.
Detection of Gelatin Adulteration in Traditional Chinese Medicine: Analysis of Deer-Horn Glue by Rapid-Resolution Liquid Chromatography-Triple Quadrupole Mass Spectrometry

Simultaneous identification of donkey-hide gelatin and bovine-hide gelatin in deer-horn glue was established by rapid-resolution liquid chromatography-triple quadrupole mass spectrometry. Water containing 1% NH4HCO3 was used for sample dissolution and trypsin was used for hydrolysis of the gelatins. After separation by a SB-C18 reversed-phase analytical column, collagen marker peptides were detected by mass spectrometry in positive electrospray ionization mode with multiple reaction monitoring. The method was specific, precise and reliable, and suitable for detection of adulterants derived from donkey-hide gelatin and bovine-hide gelatin in deer-horn glue.
Excess of Rare Amino Acid Polymorphisms in the Toll-like Receptor 4 in Humans

The Toll-like receptor 4 protein acts as the transducing subunit of the lipopolysaccharide receptor complex and assists in the detection of Gram-negative pathogens within the mammalian host. Several lines of evidence support the view that variation at the TLR4 locus may alter host susceptibility to Gram-negative infection or the outcome of infection. Here, we surveyed TLR4 sequence variation in the complete coding region (2.4 kb) in 348 individuals from several population samples; in addition, a subset of the individuals was surveyed at 1.1 kb of intronic sequence. More than 90% of the chromosomes examined encoded the same structural isoform of TLR4, while the rest harbored 12 rare amino acid variants. Conversely, the variants at silent sites (intronic and synonymous positions) occur at both low and high frequencies and are consistent with a neutral model of mutation and random drift. The spectrum of allele frequencies for amino acid variants shows a significant skew toward lower frequencies relative to both the neutral model and the pattern observed at linked silent sites. This is consistent with the hypothesis that weak purifying selection acted on TLR4 and that most mutations affecting TLR4 protein structure have at least mildly deleterious phenotypic effects. These results may imply that genetic variants contributing to disease susceptibility occur at low frequencies in the population and suggest strategies for optimizing the design of disease-mapping studies.
31.2: Power Efficient 5.0-inch 440ppi Full HD a-Si TFT LCD Single-Chip Driver IC

We have developed the single chip driver system for 5.0-inch 1080RGBx1920 FHD with 440ppi a-Si TFT LCD panel for high-end smart phone applications. Capacitive Charge-Pump and inductive PFM (Pulse Frequency Modulated) combined new type of DC-DC converter architecture has been proposed for the GIP (Gate Circuits In the Panel) turning on/off powers, or VGH and VGL, to develop successful and power efficient single chip driver IC. The measured results show that the proposed combined DC-DC converter has the merits of stable and over 23% power saving effect in comparison with the conventional capacitive Charge-Pump only or inductive PFM only DC-DC converters, respectively.
Spermidine and Flavonoid Conjugates from Peanut (Arachis hypogaea) Flowers

A new spermidine triamide derivative has been isolated from peanut flowers and identified as N (1)-acetyl- N (5), N (10)-di- p-( EE)-coumaroylspermidine on the basis of detailed analysis of NMR, MS, and UV data. Two other spermidine conjugates, N (1), N (5), N (10)-tri- p-( EEE)-coumaroylspermidine and di- p-( EE)-coumaroylspermidine, as well as four flavonoid conjugates (quercetin-3-glucoside, quercetin-3-glucuronide, isorhamnetin-3-glucoside, and isorhamnetin-3-glucuronide) that have been previously reported in organs of other plants, have been found in this study in peanut ( Arachis hypogaea L.), a representative of the Leguminosae family, for the first time. The dynamics of photoisomerization in the spermidine conjugates have been investigated.
Synthesis of monolayer hexagonal boron nitride on Cu foil using chemical vapor deposition.

Hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) is very attractive for many applications, particularly, as protective coating, dielectric layer/substrate, transparent membrane, or deep ultraviolet emitter. In this work, we carried out a detailed investigation of h-BN synthesis on Cu substrate using chemical vapor deposition (CVD) with two heating zones under low pressure (LP). Previous atmospheric pressure (AP) CVD syntheses were only able to obtain few layer h-BN without a good control on the number of layers. In contrast, under LPCVD growth, monolayer h-BN was synthesized and time-dependent growth was investigated. It was also observed that the morphology of the Cu surface affects the location and density of the h-BN nucleation. Ammonia borane is used as a BN precursor, which is easily accessible and more stable under ambient conditions than borazine. The h-BN films are characterized by atomic force microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and electron energy loss spectroscopy analyses. Our results suggest that the...
Chronic pain: information resources on the Internet.

Chronic pain is pain that lasts longer than one month after onset or pain that recurs after onset of injury or illness. Millions of Americans suffer from chronic pain conditions, whether from diseases such as diabetes or HIV infection or as a result of injured nerves, bones, or other tissues. The socioeconomic burden of chronic pain is immense. Estimates of the economic impact alone from health care expenses, lost productivity, and lost wages are $100 billion annually. This article provides a general overview of noncancer causes of chronic pain symptoms, conditions, disease burden, and treatments. Authoritative Web sites for chronic pain information and patient resources are included.
Thermal stability of carbon-nanotube-based field emission diodes

A field emission diode based on aligned multiwall carbon nanotube (MWNT) arrays was conceptually demonstrated, and its thermal stability from room temperature to 300 °C was investigated. Ideal diode behavior was observed with negligible change of the device parameters with the variation of temperature. The turn-on voltage and reverse leakage current of the MWNT diode can be readily controlled by simply varying the spacing between electrodes. Potential areas of application of the diode have been addressed.
ABSENCE OF ULTRADIAN RHYTHM OR DIURNAL VARIATION IN CIRCULATING SOMATOMEDIN-C (Sm-C) IN RATS

We studied the variation in plasma Sm-C in unrestrained, cannulated rats. Six rats were sampled every 15 min for 6 hr, and 5 rats were sampled every 2 hr for 36 hr. Plasma was assayed for Sm-C (RIA) before and after acid-ethanol extraction (AE), and for growth hormone (GH). AE increased the immunoreactivity of Sm-C in heparinized rat plasma and in freshly-collected serum 3-fold AE had no effect on serum stored at −20° C. >4 wks, which had comparable potency to AE serum and AE plasma. In rats sampled every 15 min, GH showed high amplitude, light entrained pulses every 3.3 ± 0.15 (SEM) hr. By visual inspection, there were no pulses of Sm-C. We further analyzed the data with 2 computer algorithms designed to detect hormone pulses. Of the 5 Sm-C pulses identified by both programs in unextracted plasma, only 1 was also identified in the corresponding AE plasma. When both pulse detection methods were applied to the data from both unextracted and AE plasma from all 6 rats, no pulses were identified in 10 of the 24 series of measurements. In 19 identical dilutions of a single serum sample, one program identified 2 “pulses,” and the other, none. In rats sampled every 2 hr for 36 hr, there was no episodic fluctuation of Sm-C. Thus, there is little evidence for episodic release of Sm-C into blood, either as pulsations entrained to light or to feeding cycles. Sm-C measurements made on single blood samples from normal animals reliably reflect Sm-C concentrations over the course of 24 hr.
Fig mosaic virus mRNAs show generation by cap-snatching.

Abstract Fig mosaic virus (FMV), a member of the newly described genus Emaravirus , has four negative-sense single-stranded genomic RNAs, and each codes for a single protein in the viral complementary RNA (vcRNA). In this study we show that FMV mRNAs for genome segments 2 and 3 contain short (12–18 nucleotides) heterogeneous nucleotide leader sequences at their 5′ termini. Furthermore, by using the high affinity cap binding protein eIF4E K119A , we also determined that a 5′ cap is present on a population of the FMV positive-sense RNAs, presumably as a result of cap-snatching. Northern hybridization results showed that the 5′ capped RNA3 segments are slightly smaller than the homologous vcRNA3 and are not polyadenylated. These data suggest that FMV generates 5′ capped mRNAs via cap-snatching, similar to strategies used by other negative-sense multipartite ssRNA viruses.
Effects of the NIK aly Mutation on NF-κB Activation by the Epstein-Barr Virus Latent Infection Membrane Protein, Lymphotoxin β Receptor, and CD40

Homozygosity for the aly point mutation in NF-κB-inducing kinase (NIK) results in alymphoplasia in mice, a phenotype similar to that of homozygosity for deletion of the lymphotoxin β receptor (LTβR). We now find that NF-κB activation by Epstein-Barr virus latent membrane protein 1 (LMP1) or by an LMP1 transmembrane domain chimera with the LTβR signaling domain in human embryonic kidney 293 cells is selectively inhibited by a wild type dominant negative NIK comprised of amino acids 624–947 (DN-NIK) and not by aly DN-NIK. In contrast, LMP1/CD40 is inhibited by both wild type (wt) and alyDN-NIK. LMP1, an LMP1 transmembrane domain chimera with the LTβR signaling domain, and LMP1/CD40 activate NF-κB in wt oraly murine embryo fibroblasts. Although wt andaly NIK do not differ in their in vitro binding to tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 1, 2, 3, or 6 or in their in vivo association with tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 2 and differ marginally in their very poor binding to IκB kinase β (IKKβ), only wt NIK is able to bind to IKKα. These data are compatible with a model in which activation of NF-κB by LMP1 and LTβR is mediated by an interaction of NIK or a NIK-like kinase with IKKα that is abrogated by the alymutation. On the other hand, CD40 mediates NF-κB activation through a kinase that interacts with a different component of the IKK complex.
Notes on Life History of a Sorghum Shoot Fly, Atherigona varia soccata,

Studies made at Serere Research Station, Uganda, showed that the average development time for Atherigona varia soccata Rond., which infests grain sorghum in East Africa, was 26.9 days. The average durations (and ranges) of the egg, larval and pupal stages were 3.5 (2-5), 13.0 (11.5-14.5) and 10.4 (2.5-17.5) days, respectively. An extended period of quiescence occurred during the last larval instar in some but not all of the insects after they became brownish-yellow. Some adults lived as long as 12 days when they were caged over sorghum seedlings in an insectary
Crystal View of Anesthetics and Alcohols Bound in the Pore of ELIC

Cys-loop receptors, including the acetylcholine, glycine, 5-HT3 and GABA receptors, are molecular targets of general anesthetics and alcohols. Molecular mechanisms of anesthetics and alcohols interacting with Cys-loop receptors are still unclear. ELIC is a prokaryotic homolog of Cys-loop receptors and can be inhibited by general anesthetics and alcohols. Here, we report crystal structures (∼3.1 A) of ELIC bound with the volatile general anesthetic isoflurane, and bound with 2-bromoethanol. The crystal structures were obtained in the presence and absence of the agonist propylamine. Isoflurane was found inside the pore at two sites near T237(6′) and A244(13′), respectively, but 2-bromoethanol was only found near T237(6′). In addition, 2-bromoethanol also bound near Y102 and E150 in the extracellular domain. The presence of propylamine had no obvious effect on the binding sites for both isoflurane and 2-bromoethanol. This is the first time that an anesthetic or alcohol has been observed in the pore at an atomic resolution. The newly identified binding sites of isoflurane and 2-bromoethanol in ELIC are significantly different from previously reported anesthetic and alcohol binding sites. Neither isoflurane binding nor 2-bromoethanol binding introduced significant structural perturbation. The binding of isoflurane and 2-bromoethanol inside the pore suggests the possibility of channel occlusion as a mechanism for channel inhibition of Cys-loop receptors by general anesthetics and alcohols. Supported by grants from NIH.
Effect of near-critical swirl on the Burke-Schumann reaction sheet

The influence of swirl on the shape of the Burke-Schumann reaction sheet in a straight cylindrical pipe is investigated by asymptotic and numerical means. Attention is confined to swirl levels that are near the critical value at which vortex breakdown occurs. A high-Reynolds-number, laminar, isothermal, low-Mach-number reacting flow is considered. An asymptotic analysis is developed to study the nonlinear interaction between near-critical swirl and mixture fraction distribution within the flow. It is first shown that leading-order perturbation of the velocity field from the columnar state, generated by the interaction of near-critical swirl and low viscosity, can be described by a nonlinear reduced-order model. This flow perturbation is computed, and then employed to determine the correction to the classical Burke-Schumann solution. Under lean conditions of reaction the reaction sheet becomes shorter and more compact as swirl is increased. For rich conditions of reaction, increasing swirl first causes the reaction-sheet length to decrease, and then increase after vortex breakdown has appeared. Numerical simulations of the flow and reaction-zone shape are substantiated by, and supplement, the asymptotic results.
The Application of Activity-Based Costing in E-Commerce Enterprises

E-commerce has been developing quickly in recent years,the main advantage of E-commerce is the lower cost, so that cost control is important in E-commerce enterprises. Activities-Based Costing (ABC) is an new cost accounting method and is suitable to E-commerce. We introduce the cost of E-commerce and analyze the necessity of the application of ABC and then we show the ABC process in an example.
ANTIGEN-INDUCED IMMUNOLOGICAL TOLERANCE IN MAN TO EQUINE ANTI-HUMAN-THYMOCYTE GAMMA-GLOBULIN

Abstract Immunological unresponsiveness to equine gamma-globulin was induced in a patient with aplastic anasmia by giving a single massive well-tolerated intravenous dose of antigen. Equine anti-human-thymocyte globulin given repeatedly some time afterwards did not provoke an immune response, as judged by the absence of circulating antibody or antigen-antibody complexes, and prolonged retention in the blood of labelled antilymphocytic globulin. Induction of tolerance seems a feasible method of preventing foreign serum reactions in patients receiving antilymphocytic globulin.
Pulpal hyperemia--a correlation of clinical and histologic data from 706 teeth.

This study was made to learn if pulpal hyperemia is a pathologic entity or a product of pulp tests, anesthetic, and extraction procedures. Effects of age, caries, and restorations also were studied and an assessment was made of the effects of heat, cold, and the electric pulp tester. Conclusions are that pulpal hyperemia is a distinct histologic entity and that diagnosis requires use of the various tests in conjunction.
Increases in the activity of the solubilized rat liver nuclear RNA polymerases following partial hepatectomy

Abstract Nuclei isolated 18 h following partial hepatectomy in the rat synthesize RNA in vitro at twice the rate of liver nuclei from sham-operated animals. This increased RNA synthesis is accompanied by an increase in the α-amanitin-insensitive proportion of the total activity. Twice as much RNA polymerase activity was solubilized from nuclei from hepatectomized animals as from sham-operated animals. Fractionation of this solubilized RNA polymerase activity on DEAE-Sephadex showed increases in the activity of both polymerase I and polymerase II, with a proportionally greater increase in polymerase I. Such an increase in RNA polymerase activity independent of the endogenous chromatin template was also demonstrated by inhibiting the function of the chromatin template in whole nuclei with actinomycin D and then assaying the polymerase activity with poly[d(A-T)]. It is concluded that increases in the activity of the RNA polymerases themselves can account entirely for the changes in the rates of RNA synthesis 18 h following partial hepatectomy.
Novel, high throughput method to study in vitro protein release from polymer nanospheres.

Controlled delivery of therapeutic protein drugs using biodegradable polymer carriers is a desired characteristic that enables effective, application-specific therapy and treatment. Previous studies have focused on protein delivery from polymers using conventional “one-sample-at-a-time” techniques, which are time-consuming and costly. In addition, many therapeutic proteins are in limited supply and are expensive, so it is desirable to reduce sample size for design and development of delivery devices. We have developed a rapid, high throughput technique based on a highly sensitive fluorescence-based assay to detect and quantify protein released from polyanhydrides while utilizing relatively small amounts of protein (∼40 μg). These studies focused on the release of a model protein, Texas Red conjugated bovine serum albumin, from polyanhydride copolymers based on sebacic acid (SA) and 1,6-bis(p-carboxyphenoxy)hexane (CPH). The protein release profiles were assessed simultaneously to investigate the effect of...
Glycerol-3-phosphate transporter of Escherichia coli: structure, function and regulation.

Glycerol-3-phosphate (G3P) plays a major role in glycolysis and phospholipid biosynthesis in the cell. Escherichia coli uses a secondary membrane transporter protein, GlpT, to uptake G3P into the cytoplasm. The crystal structure of the protein was recently determined to 3.3 A resolution. The protein consists of an N- and a C-terminal domain, each formed by a compact bundle of six transmembrane α-helices. The substrate-translocation pore is found at the domain interface and faces the cytoplasm. At the closed end of the pore is the substrate binding site, which is formed by two arginine residues. In combination with biochemical data, the crystal structure suggests a single binding site, alternating access mechanism for substrate translocation, namely, the substrate bound at the N- and C-terminal domain interface is transported across the membrane via a rocker-switch type of movement of the domains. Furthermore, GlpT may serve as a structural and mechanistic paradigm for other secondary active membrane transporters.
Accuracy of Mercury/Alloy Proportioning Systems

To measure the reproducible accuracy of some commercially available mercury/alloy proportioning systems, a study was made of several mercury dispensers, alloy pellets, and disposable capsules. This study included a consideration of some human variables that were introduced in manipulating the systems. Most of the systems that were tested provided acceptable accuracy when used correctly.