bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A putative diacidic motif in the SARS-CoV ORF6 protein influences its subcellular localization and suppression of expression of co-transfected expression constructs
Authors: Gunalan Vithiagaran , Mirazimi Ali , Tan Yee-Joo 
Published: November 2011

Abstract

Background
The ORF6 protein is one of the eight accessory proteins of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV). Numerous properties of ORF6 have been documented and this study focuses on two of these, namely, its ability to suppress the expression of co-transfected expression constructs and its subcellular localization to vesicular structures.

Results
Using a transient transfection system, ORF6's ability to suppress the expression of co-transfected expression constructs was measured in a quantitative manner. While ORF6 does not have a global effect on protein synthesis, quantitative real-time PCR revealed that it down-regulated the mRNA level of the co-transfected myc-nsp8 gene. Furthermore, alanine substitution of a diacidic cluster motif (aa53-56) in the ORF6 gene caused a reduction in the suppression of expression of co-transfected myc-nsp8 gene. Our previous study revealed that ORF6 localized to vesicular structures in SARS-CoV infected Vero E6 cells. Here, ORF6 was observed to be localized to similar vesicular structures in Vero E6 cells which have been transiently transfected with a mammalian expression plasmid encoding for untagged ORF6. ORF6 showed partial colocalization with cellular proteins CD63 and Lamp1, suggesting that the vesicular structures may be a subpopulation of endosomal/lysosomal vesicles. The alanine substitution of the diacidic cluster motif also altered the subcellular localization of the ORF6 protein, indicating a potential relationship between the subcellular localization of the ORF6 protein and its ability to suppress the expression of co-transfected expression constructs.

Conclusions
By combining quantitative real-time PCR and transient transfection system, a simple and safe method is established to measure ORF6's ability to suppress the expression of co-transfected myc-nsp8. In addition, immunofluorescence analysis revealed that the subcellular localization of ORF6 when expressed on its own is similar to that observed in SARS-CoV infected cells. Through the use of these two assays, a putative diacidic motif in the ORF6 protein was found to influence its subcellular localization and ability to suppress the expression of co-transfected expression constructs.
Assessing the Effects of Removing User Fees in Zambia and Niger
Authors: Lagarde Mylene , Barroy Helene , Palmer Natasha 
Published: November 2011

Objectives This study aims to overcome some of the limitations of previous studies investigating the effects of fee removal, by looking at heterogeneity of effects within countries and over time, as well as the existence of spillover effects on groups not targeted by the policy change. Methods Using routine district health services data before and after recent abolitions of user charges in Zambia and Niger, we examine the effects of the policy change on the use of health services by different groups and over time, using an interrupted timeseries design. Results Removing user fees for primary health care services in rural districts in Zambia and for children over five years old in Niger increased use of services by the targeted groups. The impact of the policy change differed widely across districts, ranging from 112% and 1194% in Niger to 239% and 1108% in Zambia. Eighteen months after the policy change, some of these effects had been eroded. There was evidence that abolishing user fees can both have positive and negative spillover effects. Conclusion These results highlight the importance of paying attention to implementation challenges and monitoring the effects of policy reforms which are often more mixed and complicated that they appear. The comparison of these reforms in two countries also sheds light on the potentially different ways in which free care can be used as a tool to improve access.
Next Steps in Cardiovascular Disease Genomic Research—Sequencing, Epigenetics, and Transcriptomics
Authors: Schnabel Renate B , Baccarelli Andrea , Lin Honghuang , Ellinor Patrick T , Benjamin Emelia J 
Published: November 2011

Abstract

BACKGROUND
Genomic research in cardiovascular disease (CVD) has progressed rapidly over the last 5 years. In most cases, however, these groundbreaking observations have not yet been accompanied by clinically applicable tools for risk prediction, diagnosis, or therapeutic interventions.

CONTENT
We reviewed the scientific literature published in English for novel methods and promising genomic targets that would permit large-scale screening and follow-up of recent genomic findings for CVD. We anticipate that advances in 3 key areas will be critical for the success of these projects. First, exome-centered and whole-genome next-generation sequencing will identify rare and novel genetic variants associated with CVD and its risk factors. Improvements in methods will also greatly advance the field of epigenetics and gene expression in humans. Second, research is increasingly acknowledging that static DNA sequence variation explains only a fraction of the inherited phenotype. Therefore, we expect that multiple epigenetic and gene expression signatures will be related to CVD in experimental and clinical settings. Leveraging existing large-scale consortia and clinical biobanks in combination with electronic health records holds promise for integrating epidemiological and clinical genomics data. Finally, a systems biology approach will be needed to integrate the accumulated multidimensional data.

SUMMARY
Novel methods in sequencing, epigenetics, and transcriptomics, plus unprecedented large-scale cooperative efforts, promise to generate insights into the complexity of CVD. The rapid accumulation and integration of knowledge will shed light on a considerable proportion of the missing heritability for CVD.
Clean Power from Deserts
Authors: Düren Michael 
Published: November 2011

AbstractSolar power from deserts can contribute significantly to a future renewable energy system. The technically accessible solar potential in deserts exceeds the global energy demand by a factor of 20. In the DESERTEC concept, a smart super grid based on HVDC technology interconnects wind, solar and other renewable energy sources with distant consumers on a scale of several thousand kilometres. The large grid averages out the natural fluctuations of renewable energy sources to a large extend. Remaining fluctuations have to be compensated by storage systems. Two competing technologies, CSP and PV, are available for large-scale solar power production in desert countries. CSP technology can be combined with thermal energy storage and water desalination. A large-scale production of solar energy in desert countries has important socio-economic implications. The interconnection of continents by large power grids introduces new economical interdependencies, which can help to reduce the North-South gradient of economic wealth.
Comparison of the Laser and Electron Beam Welding of Steel Sheets Treated by Nitro-Oxidation
Authors: Marônek Milan , Bárta Jozef , Bártová Katarína 
Published: November 2011

Abstract
Nitro-oxidized steel specimens welded by a CO2 laser and an electron beam were examined for quality and integrity by visual inspection, microstructure, and microhardness analysis. Visual inspection of the specimens welded by laser revealed the lack of root penetration at maximal welding speed from the selected welding speed range (30 to 60 mm/s) and a neat weld at the welding speed of 40 mm/s. However, in comparison to laser beam welding, the electron beam welding (EBW) process produced the weld joints with a wider heat affected zone, while the weld joints were much more prone to porosity. The microstructure of the weld joints made by both the laser beam welding and EBW methods did not show any abnormalities in phase composition owing to the presence of nitrides in the surface layer of the materials welded after nitro-oxidation.
Fire Pattern Repeatability: A Study in Uncertainty
Authors: Madrzykowski Daniel , Fleischmann Charles 
Published: November 2011

Abstract
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is conducting a multi-year study, with the support of the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) and the NIST Office of Law Enforcement Standards (OLES), to examine the repeatability of fire patterns. The primary objective of the study is assessing the repeatability of fire patterns on gypsum board exposed to a limited range of source fires. The focus of this paper is an overview of the uncertainties of the measurements. The study required the use of a variety of measurements to determine the repeatability of the source fires in terms of heat release rate, temperature, heat flux, and flame height. Replicate source fire experiments were conducted in an oxygen consumption calorimeter in order to examine the repeatability of the fires in terms of the heat release rate. The flame movement and height for each fire were recorded with photographs and videos. The fire pattern experiments were conducted in a three-walled structure with a full floor and partial ceiling constructed from wood framing and lined with painted gypsum board. The source fires were positioned against the rear wall, midway along its length. Replicate experiments were conducted with each fuel. The fire patterns were documented and analyzed for repeatability. The fire pattern height results are then compared to the mean flame height results to examine the level of agreement.
Coke Formation in Steam Reforming of Natural Gas over Rhodium/Alumina Catalysts: An Atomic Force Microscopy Study using the Oscillating Friction Mode
Authors: Eßmann Claudia , Weis Frederik , Seipenbusch Martin , Schimmel Thomas , Deutschmann Olaf 
Published: November 2011

Abstract
The initial stage of coke formation in steam reforming of natural gas over rhodium/alumina catalysts was studied microscopically. A well-defined model catalyst prepared by an aerosol technique was placed in a flow reactor to very mildly coke the catalyst sample. Therefore, a natural gas–steam mixture at steam-to-carbon ratios of unity was fed to the reactor operated for thirty minutes at atmospheric pressure and moderate temperatures of 650 ºC. Fresh and used catalyst samples were characterized by SEM-EDX and a recently developed AFM technique, the Oscillating Friction Microscopy (OFM), to analyze the friction characteristics of the sample. OFM combined with SEM-EDX allowed to distinguish between coke depositions, alumina support (Al2O3), and Rh particles and to locate the initial carbon deposition in the process. It was found that coke formation starts on the catalyst particle. The carbonaceous overlayer can be removed from the catalyst and the closely surrounding support by multiples scans with the AFM tip.
Materials for Lithium Ion Batteries: Challenges for Numerical Simulations
Authors: Leoni Stefano , Baldoni Matteo , Craco Luis , Joswig Jan-Ole , Seifert Gotthard 
Published: November 2011

Abstract
We present an overview of numerical challenges in simulating electronic and transport properties of battery assemblies. Li diffusion paths within inorganic materials (olivine phosphates) are investigated using a dedicated accelerated molecular dynamics approach. The need of many-body electronic structure calculations is illustrated for the evaluation of intercalation potentials (LDA/GGA+U) and of transport properties (LDA+DMFT). Steps towards the improvement of silicon based anodic materials are shown. All in all, the framework of an ab initio simulation platform for materials for power storage is sketched.
Sporulation in the Budding Yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Neiman Aaron M 
Published: November 2011

Abstract
In response to nitrogen starvation in the presence of a poor carbon source, diploid cells of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae undergo meiosis and package the haploid nuclei produced in meiosis into spores. The formation of spores requires an unusual cell division event in which daughter cells are formed within the cytoplasm of the mother cell. This process involves the de novo generation of two different cellular structures: novel membrane compartments within the cell cytoplasm that give rise to the spore plasma membrane and an extensive spore wall that protects the spore from environmental insults. This article summarizes what is known about the molecular mechanisms controlling spore assembly with particular attention to how constitutive cellular functions are modified to create novel behaviors during this developmental process. Key regulatory points on the sporulation pathway are also discussed as well as the possible role of sporulation in the natural ecology of S. cerevisiae.
Leveraging State Immunization Information Systems to Measure the Effectiveness of Rotavirus Vaccine
Authors: Cortese Margaret M. , LeBlanc Julie , White Karen E. , Jerris Robert C. , Stinchfield Patricia , Preston Kenan L. , Meek James , Odofin Lynda , Khizer Saadia , Miller Claudia A. , Buttery Vicki , Mijatovic-Rustempasic Slavica , Lewis Jamie , Parashar Umesh D. , Immergluck Lilly Cheng 
Published: November 2011

OBJECTIVE:
Electronic immunization information systems (IISs) are now established in almost all US states. We used the IIS in Minnesota, Georgia, and Connecticut for immunization data and as the source of 1 of 2 control groups to measure pentavalent rotavirus vaccine (RV5) effectiveness (VE) using case-control methodology.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:
Case-subjects were vaccine-eligible children who presented to 1 of 5 hospitals or emergency departments with gastroenteritis and had rotavirus antigen detected in stool during any of 3 rotavirus seasons (2007–2009). Two control groups were used: children with gastroenteritis who tested negative for rotavirus and children from the IIS matched by zip code and birth date. In Minnesota and Georgia, immunization records for rotavirus-positive and -negative children were also obtained from providers.

RESULTS:
Overall, 402 (96%) rotavirus case-subjects and 825 (97%) rotavirus-negative controls who met eligibility criteria were found in the IISs. Ten IIS controls were identified for each case. VE estimates for RV5 were similar across control groups, immunization data sources, and states. VE point estimates for 3 vs 0 doses were 89% to 94% among children aged 8 months or older and 86% to 92% among those aged 24 months or older. VE for 2 doses was ≥90% among children aged 8 months or older, and VE for 1 dose was 66% among those aged 6 weeks through 5 months.

CONCLUSIONS:
Three RV5 doses confer sustained protection against rotavirus disease during the first 3 years of life in US children. Two RV5 doses also seem to provide good protection. IISs can be valuable tools for assessing the effectiveness of vaccines administered to young children.
Position-Specific HIV Risk in a Large Network of Homeless Youths
Authors: Rice Eric , Barman-Adhikari Anamika , Milburn Norweeta G. , Monro William 
Published: November 2011

Objectives. We examined interconnections among runaway and homeless youths (RHYs) and how aggregated network structure position was associated with HIV risk in this population. Methods. We collected individual and social network data from 136 RHYs. On the basis of these data, we generated a sociomatrix, accomplished network visualization with a “spring embedder,” and examined k-cores. We used multivariate logistic regression models to assess associations between peripheral and nonperipheral network position and recent unprotected sexual intercourse. Results. Small numbers of nominations at the individual level aggregated into a large social network with a visible core, periphery, and small clusters. Female youths were more likely to be in the core, as were youths who had been homeless for 2 years or more. Youths at the periphery were less likely to report unprotected intercourse and had been homeless for a shorter duration. Conclusions. HIV risk was a function of risk-taking youths' connections with one another and was associated with position in the overall network structure. Social network–based prevention programs, young women's housing and health programs, and housing-first programs for peripheral youths could be effective strategies for preventing HIV among this population.
Against the Very Idea of the Politicization of Public Health Policy
Authors: Goldberg Daniel S. 
Published: November 2011

I criticize the concern over the politicization of public health policy as a justification for preferring a narrow to a broad model of public health. My critique proceeds along 2 lines. First, the fact that administrative structures and actors are primary sources of public health policy demonstrates its inescapably political and politicized nature. Second, historical evidence shows that public health in Great Britain and the United States has from its very inception been political and politicized. I conclude by noting legitimate ethical concerns regarding the political nature of public health policy and argue that open deliberation in a democratic social order is best served by acknowledging the constraints of the inescapably politicized process of public health policymaking.
Temporal and Regional Trends in the Prevalence of Healthy Lifestyle Characteristics: United States, 1994–2007
Authors: Troost Jonathan P. , Rafferty Ann P. , Luo Zhehui , Reeves Mathew J. 
Published: November 2011

Objectives. We examined temporal and regional trends in the prevalence of health lifestyles in the United States. Methods. We used 1994 to 2007 data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System to assess 4 healthy lifestyle characteristics: having a healthy weight, not smoking, consuming fruits and vegetables, and engaging in physical activity. The concurrent presence of all 4 characteristics was defined as a healthy overall lifestyle. We used logistic regression to assess temporal and regional trends. Results. The percentages of individuals who did not smoke (4% increase) and had a healthy weight (10% decrease) showed the strongest temporal changes from 1994 to 2007. There was little change in fruit and vegetable consumption or physical activity. The prevalence of healthy lifestyles increased minimally over time and varied modestly across regions; in 2007, percentages were higher in the Northeast (6%) and West (6%) than in the South (4%) and Midwest (4%). Conclusions. Because of the large increases in overweight and the declines in smoking, there was little net change in the prevalence of healthy lifestyles. Despite regional differences, the prevalence of healthy lifestyles across the United States remains very low.
The Role of Geomechanical Observation in Continuous Updating of Thermal Recovery Simulations Using the Ensemble Kalman Filter
Authors: Azad A. , Chalaturnyk R. J. 
Published: November 2011

Abstract
In situ thermal methods such as steam-assisted gravity drainage (SAGD) and cyclic steam stimulation (CSS) are widely employed in oil sand reservoirs. The physics of such thermal processes is generally well understood, and it has been shown that rock properties are highly influenced by the geomechanical behaviour of the reservoir during these recovery processes. Geomechanics improves the process dynamically, and its response can depict the progress of production within a reservoir. However, the potential of geomechanical monitoring for application to closed-loop reservoir optimization is not usually practiced. With increased implementation of highly instrumented wells and communication technologies providing real-time monitoring data from different sources, combining available data into reservoir-geomechanical simulations would improve updating numerical models and prediction process. This research explores effective uses of geomechanical observation data for history matching and types of geomechanical observation sources adequate for thermal recovery. The ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF), combined with an iterative geomechanical coupled simulator, has been chosen as the data assimilation algorithm to update the model continuously based on geomechanical observations. The results show that considering geomechanical modelling and observation improves the history matching process when geomechanics is an issue.
Effect of Discontinuous Microfractures on Ultratight Matrix Permeability of a Dual-Porosity Medium
Authors: Apaydin Osman G. , Ozkan E. , Raghavan R. 
Published: November 2011

Abstract
This paper examines the effects of matrix microfractures on effective matrix permeability of a dual-porosity medium. An analytical model is presented with composite matrix blocks consisting of a core where unconnected microfractures do not considerably contribute to flow capacity and a surface layer where the microfractures connected to the matrix surface (resembling wormholes) cause a stimulation effect. The composite matrix flow is coupled with the flow in a network of macrofractures as in the conventional dual-porosity idealizations of fractured media. The paper investigates the effect of matrix-surface stimulation and demonstrates improved fluid transfer from the matrix medium to the fracture network due to matrix microfractures. It is shown that matrix microfractures accelerate production by providing earlier and more effective contribution of matrix into flow rates. This contribution of the matrix due to microfractures cannot be simulated by enhanced matrix permeability as the micro-fractured surface-layer of the matrix causes different flow characteristics than a homogeneous (unfractured) matrix. The effect of the micro-fractured surface-layer of the matrix cannot be taken into account by a triple-porosity model used to incorporate two sets of connected natural fractures or connected fractures and vugs either.
The Amazing Monterey Formation
Authors: Ershaghi Iraj 
Published: November 2011

Abstract
There are lessons to be learned from more than 40 years of oil and gas production history of the Monterey Formation in offshore California. From the exploratory to the development phase, there are considerations in applying interpretation processes developed for conventional reservoirs. These include issues about the use of conventional wireline data for reservoir characterization, formation damage, formation testing and interpretation of DST’s and well tests. But the most interesting observations are related to performance based reservoir characterization. Initial individual well productivities relate to geological composition and state of diagenesis of the formation and associated fracture density depicted from cores, FMI and other fracture identification logs. Presence of reservoir compartments is evident from the performance of nearby wells. Duration of fracture controlled production, cumulative oil production for individual wells and monitoring of water invasion from bottom aquifer are direct indications of compartments sharing a common aquifer. Performance data and other Information from a number separate offshore fields producing from the Monterey Formations are included to demonstrate some of the above concepts.