cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Synovitis After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Effusion: Confusion

Indications for prosthetic ligament reconstruction vary from long-standing chronic injury of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) to acute injuries consisting of anterior cruciate tears along with medial collateral ligament and meniscus injuries. Previous experience with anterior cruciate insufficiency and rotatory instability has demanded new concepts in applying biomechanical and kinematic research toward solving this difficult problem. A prosthetic ligament ideally would have mechanical properties very similar to the normal ligament it is meant to replace. In addition to this it must be biologically inert and provide some ability to withstand the hostile environment of the synovial cavity.
We blew it

Stage A 34-year-old homosexual man, who had been infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) since 1986 but without a defining illness of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), presented with a two-week history of pruritus, jaundice, and loss of energy. He also had anorexia and intermittent nausea without vomiting, abdominal pain, or diarrhea. For several months he had had night sweats and intermittent fever with temperatures as high as 102°F. Four weeks earlier he had had an episode of sinusitis, which was treated first with erythromycin, but later with clarithromycin instead, because of gastrointestinal intolerance. He had been taking trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole . . .
Damage to Raisins, Almonds, and Walnuts by Irradiated Indianmeal Moth and Navel Orangeworm Larvae (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)

Damage to raisins, almonds, and walnuts due to feeding by irradiated larvae of the Indianmeal moth, Plodia interpunctella (Hubner), and the navel orangeworm, Amyelois transitella (Walker), was determined. Larvae of both species were reared on bran diet. Age of the larvae when irradiated was 8 d for Indianmeal moth and 13 d for navel orangeworm. Larvae were irradiated with doses ranging from 337 to 497 Gy (gray) before transfer to almonds, walnuts, and raisins. Adult emergence was prevented by all doses. In products containing irradiated larvae, damage was consistently reduced. The percentage of weight losses of almonds infested with untreated Indianmeal moth and navel orangeworm larvae and of walnuts infested with untreated navel orangeworm larvae was significantly higher than the percentage of weight loss of those infested with irradiated larvae. Radiation also improved the overall appearance of the product by reducing webbing and frass. These results indicate that although radiation-induced mortality may be delayed, damage to product quality due to infestation by larvae would be significantly reduced.
Sequence analysis on hemagglutinin gene of measles viruses isolated in Jiangxi province in 2007

Objective:To investigate the genetic characterization of measles viruses(MV) isolated from Jiangxi province in 2007,and provide scientific evidence for controlling and preventing MV effectively.Methods:Measles virus was isolated from throat swabs of measles patients of measles outbreak and RT-PCR method was employed to amplify H gene fragment of measles isolates for sequencing.Then the homogeneity of the sequence between these measles virus and the representative strains with each genotype in GeHeBank were analyzed.Results:All the measles isolates which were isolated from measles outbreak in Jiangxi province in 2007 belonged to genotype H1 which had been a main genotype containing all of the isolates in China.There was 99.0%～99.7% identity of amino acid sequence on H gene between the isolates.Compared with the vaccine strain(Shanghai 191),the homogeneity of nucleotide sequences of H gene was 97.6%～98.2%.Conclusion:Data from phylogenic trees of H gene revealed that the wide-type measles viruses isolated from Jiangxi province in 2007 belonged to genotype H1.
Yijing:A Transformation from Supernatural thoughts to Philosophy of Experience——An Analysis of Cultural Anthropology in Yijing

Yijing is a great book about divination from ancient China. It takes Confucianism as foundation, integrating various schools of thoughts of the Pre-Qin period, totemistic culture, and witchcraft. A philosophical transformation from supernatural thoughts to philosophy of experience is clearly observed, by examining Yijing along with Yizhuan. The two great books reveal the earliest investigations on the world and human nature in China.
Identification of FMCW radar in mutual interference environments using frequency ramp modulation

This paper proposes a scheme to avoid mutual interference in frequency-modulated continuous-wave (FMCW) radar through the modulation of the frequency ramp with time. When multiple FMCW radars are being used simultaneously, the detection of beat frequency can be erroneous because the transmitted signals from other radars mutually interfere with the original signal. To detect the beat frequency of particular radar, we impose an orthogonal pattern in the change of frequency ramp slope. A single burst of FMCW radar comprises hundreds of frequency sweeps, and the slope of frequency ramp is modulated in a predefined matter. Then each radar has its own unique pattern in a spectrogram for a target; therefore the target range can be determined by observing the correlations between the obtained beat frequency spectrogram and a pattern simulated depending on distance. In this study, a sinusoidal pattern is employed to obtain orthogonality between radars. The simulation result shows that a target of interest could be successfully detected in an environment with mutual interference.
How to Use Excel® in Analytical Chemistry and in General Scientific Data Analysis: Numerical simulation of chemical kinetics

Introduction In most of the examples used in the preceding chapters, a closed-form solution was available to describe the phenomenon considered, and the spreadsheet was used either to visualize the resulting behavior, or to manipulate and analyze consequent, experimental data. However, more often than we care to admit, we can formulate a problem in mathematical terms, but cannot find a corresponding, mathematical solution. That usually leaves us with two options: either simplify the mathematical model until it becomes solvable, or use a computer to find a numerical solution. Neither option is ideal. In simplifying a mathematical model, there is always the risk that one or more important aspects of the problem will be missed. On the other hand, numerical solutions apply only for the specific parameter values used, and the results may therefore be difficult to generalize. Still, more and more problems in science and technology are solved by numerical simulation, including the design of camera lenses, cars, and jet airplanes. In this short chapter we will use the rate expressions of chemical kinetics to illustrate how one can use spreadsheets for the numerical simulation of differential equations. Much of chemistry involves kinetics. The equilibrium behavior we discussed in chapters 4 and 5 can only be observed because the underlying chemical reactions are sufficiently fast. In other cases, however, the reactions involved may be relatively slow, and their rates can be observed and measured.
“Into the hands of negroes”: Reproducing plantation geographies in the South Carolina Lowcountry

Abstract This article examines the post-emancipation contests over agricultural land in the South Carolina Lowcountry – the coastal region surrounding the port city of Charleston – in the context of recent theorizations of plantation geographies and the racial politics of the US Department of Agriculture (USDA). In the aftermath of slavery, freedpeople in the Lowcountry were remarkably successful in securing control over their labor and access to land. The measure of relative autonomy that came with these gains spurred enormous anxiety for white elites, however, who realized that black control over land and labor threatened to upend the region’s racial hierarchy. I argue that plantation geographies persist through the white monopolization of land, and suggest that successfully challenging this historical trajectory depends on challenging liberal modes of improvement.
Human Lung Disease-Associated Proteins Are Oxidized in Mouse Lung by Cadmium Levels Found in Human Environmental and Dietary Exposures

Cd accumulates in humans from dietary, environmental including cigarette smoke, and occupational sources, and has a twenty-year biologic half-life. Our previous studies show that environmental low dose Cd oxidizes protein redox states and stimulates inflammatory signaling and actin cytoskeleton disruption; these results suggest that Cd could impact multiple disease mechanisms. Although considerable information is available concerning effects of high dose occupational Cd exposures and cigarette smoking, little is known about the relative sensitivities of subcellular compartmental redox proteome and the effect of its disruption on lung physiology and pathophysiology at low environmental and dietary levels. In the present study lung tissues from mice exposed to low dose Cd by drinking water (3.3 mg/L, 16 weeks), compared to Cd-free drinking, were examined for redox proteomics (n=3 per group). Redox proteomics was performed by a mass spectrometry-based Isotope Coded Affinity Tag (ICAT) method to measure oxidation of cysteine residues, and pathway and network analyses were performed using MetaCore software. Results showed that 545 protein peptides of two groups were identified and redox states of all 545 were measured (mean % oxidation, control, 32.3%; Cd, 36.4%). Of these, 173 were oxidized 1.3 fold or more by Cd compared to respective protein peptides in control. The results of subcellular compartmental analysis of these 173 showed that mitochondrial proteins were relatively more susceptible to oxidation (1.8 fold) by Cd than proteins in other compartments. Pathway analysis showed that pathways for cystic fibrosis, lung cancer and asthma were associated with the 173 proteins oxidized by Cd, suggesting that exposure to environmental and diet levels of Cd could alter lung redox proteome and impact pulmonary health and diseases.
Formation of molybdate organic-hybrids and exfoliated molybdate nanosheets

Abstract Novel synthetic approaches for the effective construction of MoO x – organic hybrid structures and MoO x nanosheets (NSs) have been developed. A solvothermal (ST) treatment of molybdenum trioxide utilizing dodecylamine (DDA) as an intercalating agent leads to the formation of MoO x – DDA hybrid structures. Layer spacing as a function of organic molecule lengths can be controlled by changing the surfactants located between the nanosheets. Maintaining the integrity of the parent crystal, hexagonal-shaped molybdenum oxide NSs up to four micrometers in lateral size separate following sonication of the hybrid structures. Formation of MoO x –oleylamine (OAm) highly oriented nanosheets with plasmonic behavior were also achieved using a rapid ST treatment of molybdenum trioxide in the presence of OAm surfactant. The effects of time and temperature on the formation, morphology, and crystal structure of well-ordered nanosheets were explored. These synthesized hybrid nanostructures and NSs are expected to show great potential for a variety of applications including rechargeable batteries, catalysis, and nanodevices.
The Skeleton in the Closet: Harvesting a Skeletonized IMA.

There is a considerable amount of data that using more than one arterial graft provides a survival advantage for patients undergoing coronary bypass operations. The Society of Thoracic Surgeons has a set of official guidelines for the use of arterial grafts which include the following recommendations:Internal mammary arteries (IMA’s) should be used to bypass the left anterior descending (LAD) artery when bypass of the LAD is indicated.As an adjunct to left internal mammary artery (LIMA), a second arterial graft (right IMA or radial artery [RA]) should be considered in appropriate patients.Use of bilateral IMA’s (BIMA’s) should be considered in patients who do not have an excessive risk of sternal complications.To reduce the risk of sternal infection with bilateral IMA’s, skeletonized grafts should be considered, smoking cessation is recommended, glycemic control should be considered, and enhanced sternal stabilization may be considered.Use of arterial grafts should be a part of the discussion of the heart team in determining the optimal approach for each patient. [Ann Thorac Surg 2016; 101: 801–9]
S.K. Livingston and the maggot therapy of wounds

Stanton K. Livingston was the country's foremost authority on the maggot therapy of war wounds in the years following World War I. His contributions to the literature, including his methodology for raising flies and applying their maggots, are discussed. Prior to the antibiotic era, maggot therapy was the most effective means of promoting wound healing, and Livingston's research, albeit poorly reported by modern standards, was responsible for preserving the lives and limbs of hundreds of veterans.
Belt-and-suspenders as a biological design principle.

Recent studies have shown both the pFRG and the preBotC are sufficient to generate respiratory rhythm, and are hypothesized to do so via distinct mechanisms (Onimaru and Homma 2003; Mellen, Janczewski, Bocchiaro and Feldman 2003). The coexistence of mechanistically distinct, functionally matching networks (defined as degeneracy, Edelman and Gally 2001) is a ubiquitous feature of motor networks in both invertebrates (Selverston and Miller 1980) and vertebrates (DiDomenico, ' Nissanov and Eaton 1988). In almost all cases, a consensus exists about which subsystem is the "primary" rhythm generator, yet consistently, the effect of modulators on the isolated primary rhythm generator is qualitatively different than their effect on the more intact network (Ayali and Harris-Warrick 1999) and, in the intact animal, all rhythmogenic networks are active during motor pattern generation. Thus, at best, ascribing primacy to a particular network has weak support (since the other networks can produce qualitatively similar patterns; Prinz, Bucher and Marder 2004) and little explanatory power (since effects of modulatory inputs on the isolated "primary" rhythm generator do not persist in more intact networks). The ubiquity of degenerate networks for motor pattern generation suggests that a more useful question is why such an organization exists. We propose that degeneracy is ubiquitous because it reduces the phenotype's sensitivity to genetic mutation and environmental perturbation, and broadens the adaptiveness of motor patterns.
Repair of Waterstop Failures

Various methods of repairing failed waterstops or creating new waterstops where the old ones have failed have been examined. The work considered primarily relates to high pressure conditions at working joints such as occurrs in dams, but it is also applicable to many other types of structures. Field experience for each repair method is described. Advantages and disadvantages of each method is analyzed. A new concept of drilling along a joint and filling the hole with elastic filler to create a cast-in-place waterstop has been used with good success.
Vascular Complications of TAVR

Risk of major vascular complications clearly depends on the access route and is reported between 5 and 16%. The evolution of delivery systems with decreasing profile size has helped significantly to reduce complications and allow more transfemoral procedures. Any unexplained tachycardia, hypotension, or anemia should raise your suspicion for an iliac or femoral injury. Vascular complications can present after surgery when patients are hypertensive or resume anticoagulation.
Experience of Palliative Radiotherapy for Tumor-Associated Bleeding From Biliary Tract Cancer

We experienced two cases of palliative radiotherapy (RT) for tumor-associated bleeding from biliary tract cancer (BTC). Bleeding due to tumor invasion to the duodenum wall caused severe anemia that required a blood transfusion. Hemostatic RT with 30 Gy in 10 - 12 fractions was attempted. Hemostasis was achieved in both patients, and they were able to spend their remaining life at home with no restrictions of their oral intake. In addition, no adverse events were seen in any of the two patients after undergoing palliative RT. Palliative RT for tumor-associated bleeding from BTC is suggested not only to be an effective and safe treatment option, but to improve the patient’s quality of life. The further accumulation of cases will be required in order to confirm the usefulness of hemostatic RT for BTC. J Med Cases. 2018;9(10):328-331 doi: https://doi.org/10.14740/jmc3064e
Posterior Petrosal Transotic Approach for Cerebellopontine Angle Hemangioblastoma: Technical Case Report.

Background and importance Although posterior petrosal approaches are utilized less frequently in many practices today, they continue to provide distinct surgical advantages in carefully selected cases. Here, we report a case of a recurrent cerebellopontine angle (CPA) hemangioblastoma that had failed a prior, more conservative, surgical approach. We provide cadaveric dissections of variations of posterior petrosal approaches to illustrate the advantages of the selected approach. Clinical presentation A 70-yr-old female presented with a growing left CPA hemangioblastoma. The lesion had undergone a prior subtotal resection from a retrosigmoid approach and subsequent adjuvant radiation treatment. The patient had worsening left facial strength, progressive balance difficulty, and absent left auditory function. Preoperative angiogram demonstrated arterial blood supply from the left anterior inferior cerebellar artery (AICA) that was deemed unsafe for embolization due to significant arteriovenous shunting. A posterior petrosal transotic approach was performed in order to optimize the working angle to the anterior brainstem and afford the ability to occlude the vascular supply from AICA prior to surgical resection of the lesion. Conclusion The posterior petrosal transotic approach offers an improved surgical working angle to the anterior brainstem compared to the translabyrinthine approach. This advantage can be particularly important with vascular tumors that receive blood supply anteriorly, as in this case from AICA, and can improve the safety of the resection.
Tire-ice model development for the simulation of rubber compounds effect on tire performance

Abstract The material properties of the rubber compounds, which are highly dependent on temperature, have a vital role in the tire behavior. A comprehensive study on the effect of the rubber properties on tire performance, for different temperatures, as well as different road conditions is required to adequately predict the performance of tires on ice. In this study, a theoretical model has been developed for the tire-ice interaction. The temperature changes obtained from the model are used to calculate the height of the water film created by the heat generated due to the friction force. Next, the viscous friction coefficient at the contact patch is obtained. By using the thermal balance equation at the contact patch, the dry friction is obtained. Knowing the friction coefficients for the dry and wet regions, the equivalent friction coefficient is calculated. The model has been validated using experimental results for three similar tires with different rubber compounds properties. The model developed can be used to predict the temperature changes at the contact patch, the tire friction force, the areas of wet and dry regions, the height of the water film for different ice temperatures, different normal load, etc.
Distinct tissue injury patterns in juvenile dermatomyositis auto-antibody subgroups.

Juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM) can be classified into clinical serological subgroups by distinct myositis-specific antibodies (MSAs). It is incompletely understood whether different MSAs are associated with distinct pathological characteristics, clinical disease activities, or response to treatment. We retrospectively reviewed clinicopathological data from consecutive JDM patients followed in the pediatric rheumatology clinic at a single center between October 2016 and November 2018. Demographics, clinical data, and laboratory data were collected and analyzed. Detailed muscle biopsy evaluation of four domains (inflammation, myofiber, vessels, and connective tissue) was performed, followed by statistical analysis. Of 43 subjects included in the study, 26 (60.5%) had a detectable MSA. The most common MSAs were anti-NXP-2 (13, 30.2%), anti-Mi-2 (7, 16.3%), and anti-MDA-5 (5, 11.6%). High titer anti-Mi-2 positively correlated with serum CK > 10,000 at initial visit (r = 0.96, p = 0.002). Muscle biopsied from subjects with high titer anti-Mi-2 had prominent perifascicular myofiber necrosis and perimysial connective tissue damage that resembled perifascicular necrotizing myopathy, but very little capillary C5b-9 deposition. Conversely, there was no positive correlation between the levels of the anti-NXP-2 titer and serum CK (r = − 0.21, p = 0.49). Muscle biopsies from patients with anti-NXP-2 showed prominent capillary C5b-9 deposition; but limited myofiber necrosis. Only one patient had anti-TIF1γ autoantibody, whose muscle pathology was similar as those with anti-NXP2. All patients with anti-MDA-5 had normal CK and near normal muscle histology. Muscle biopsy from JDM patients had MSA specific tissue injury patterns. These findings may help improve muscle biopsy diagnosis accuracy and inform personalized treatment of JDM.
Improvements in biometric health measures among individuals with intellectual disabilities: A controlled evaluation of the Fit 5 program.

Abstract Background Individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID) have poorer health statuses compared to the general population. Actions are needed to address health disparities and promote healthy lifestyles among individuals with ID. Moreover, studies that consider program settings for this population are needed. Objective The Special Olympics health program, Fit 5, was evaluated to assess effectiveness in improving health measures for individuals with ID. The settings of programs’ implementation were also considered. Methods Four Special Olympics basketball teams participated as an intervention group, and three teams as a control group, in a study of the Fit 5 program that was implemented during, and as part of, a regular 8-week basketball season. Resting heart rate (RHR) and blood pressure, and height and weight to calculate Body Mass Index (BMI), were measured before and after the program. Differences in pre- and post-measures were compared between the two groups with paired samples t-tests and ANCOVA. Results Participants in the intervention group had significantly greater improvements in resting systolic and diastolic blood pressures (p = 0.02 and 0.03, respectively) and RHR (p = 0.003). BMI increased for both groups; however, the increase in the intervention group was significantly less (p = 0.006). The Special Olympics setting was considered familiar and supportive and effectively reached individuals with ID. Conclusion The Fit 5 program positively impacts RHR and blood pressure, and could help reduce extents of BMI increases, in individuals with ID when implemented in a common setting. Further investigation of the impact of Fit 5 and similar programs in additional settings is warranted.
A multistage stochastic programming approach to the optimal surveillance and control of the emerald ash borer in cities

Emerald ash borer (EAB), a wood-boring insect native to Asia and invading North America, has killed untold millions of high-value ash trees that shade streets, homes, and parks and caused significa...
Fuzzy Based Treatment Model for Critical Healthcare System

An intelligent system is needed to envisage dangerous diseases and offer the doctors to decide and take action on such patients. Most of the existing healthcare systems concentrate on very few diseases and result in incorrect predictions. This paper proposes a Fuzzy based treatment model (FBTM) for the essential healthcare system. It provides early detection and treatment of critical diseases such as Heart attack, Stroke, Cancer, Kidney failure and Brain tumor. In the first phase, based on a medical knowledge base (MKB), a medical Ontology model (MOM) is developed, which will predict the chances of a patient having an acute disease. Then, the medical information resulting from the ontology and the rules are then forwarded to the Fuzzy inference system to support giving proper treatment based on the attained knowledge. The Fuzzy based method provides an acute caution to high-risk patients. It also provides treatment strategies to patients according to their disease stage.
COVID-19 Vaccines and the Skin: The landscape of cutaneous vaccine reactions worldwide

In 2021, we entered a new phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. As mass vaccinations are underway and more vaccines are approved, it is important to recognize cutaneous adverse events. We review the dermatologic manifestations of COVID-19 vaccines as reported in clinical trial data and summarize additional observational reports of skin reactions to COVID-19 vaccines. Early-onset local injection reactions were the most common cutaneous side effects observed in clinical trials; delayed injection reactions were the most common cutaneous side effect reported outside of clinical trials. Understanding the landscape of cutaneous manifestations to COVID-19 vaccines is key to providing appropriate vaccine guidance.
Intellectual Property Protection and Agricultural Biotechnology: A Multidisciplinary Perspective

Intellectual property (IP) protection makes it possible to exclude others from appropriating the fruits of research and development. At the intersection of biotechnology and intellectual property are several public policy issues concerning innovation, technology, and society (such as social welfare, human health, ecology, and tradition), which must be considered from a multidisciplinary perspective. This article discusses the structure of the ag-biotechnology industry, the role of IP in achieving coordination and sharing of both the benefits and risks of innovation, IP regimes in the United States and abroad, and the economic and philosophical rationales for IP. The key principles and doctrines are then applied to specific IP controversies in biotechnology.
Decreased Autofluorescence in a Case of Parathyroid Carcinoma

Abstract Background: Identifying parathyroid glands intraoperatively can be challenging and elusive for even the most experienced of surgeons. Interestingly, parathyroid glands have been shown to a...
Lost in Lockdown? The Impact of COVID-19 on Chinese International Student Mobility

Due to uneven and hierarchical global context, the United States has been the world’s number one “Educational Hub” (Knight, 2011), leading the internationalization of higher education in multiple forms, the top priority of which lies in international student recruitment and enrollment. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has thoroughly disrupted the traditional mobility experience—a situation that has broader implications for the demographic landscape of US higher education. This article explores how COVID-19 and pandemic-related Sinophobia affect Chinese students’ perspectives on their educational decision-making. Based on Zoom interviews of a sample of 21 Chinese undergraduate students, this study demonstrates that despite the leading role of the US in international education, it is gradually losing appeal to Chinese students due to disillusionment with the romanticized imaginary of the US, anxiety about uncertain policies, and safety concerns. The unidirectional student mobility from mainland China to the US may be interrupted with Singapore and Hong Kong as the emerging destinations.
Seasonal Modulation of Dissolved Oxygen in the Equatorial Pacific by Tropical Instability Vortices

Tropical Instability Vortices (TIVs) have a major influence on the physics and biogeochemistry of the equatorial Pacific. Using an eddy-resolving configuration of the Community Earth System Model (...
The Effect of Early Claiming Benefit Reduction on Retirement Rates

This paper examines the effect of the increase in the Social Security Full Retirement Age (FRA) and the associated decrease in benefits for early claimants on retirement rates at ages 62 to 65. It uses information on age, sex, and labor force participation from the monthly Current Population Survey from 1976 to 2019. Critical components of the analysis include a difference/in-difference framework, comparison of three measures of retirement status, estimation of nonparametric and parametric models, and a test of the assumptions underlying the difference-indifference approach. Although our model satisfied that test, the results do not guarantee that our specification is valid. The paper found that: • The increase in the FRA decreased the retirement rate at age 62 by about 5 percentage points (or 30 percent) for men and by about 2 percentage points (or about 20 percent) for women. The retirement rate at age 63 to 65 was not affected. • Estimates of the parametric model show that a 1 percent increase in the early claiming reduction decreases the retirement rate by between 0.7 and 0.9 percentage points for men and between 0.2 and 0.4 percentage points for women. The policy implications of the findings are: • Our findings can inform evaluations of policy proposals to further increase the Social Security FRA. • Our findings contribute to the understanding of the effects that the availability and generosity of pension benefits have on retirement decisions.
Party Electoral Support: Composition and Structure

As a rule Japanese parties do not have large popular memberships. Voter registration is automatic through residential registration in the city or town of residence. This registration must precede an election by at least three months if one desires to vote, but party identification per se is not a part of the process.1 Therefore, political parties have to recruit members on a club-like basis, and the usual criterion of membership is the payment of a few yen in the form of party dues. There is no built-in inducement for party affiliation except possible personal interest. As of 1965, Japanese parties had memberships amounting to: Liberal Democrats — 1,700,000 (of which less than 300,000 were really hard core); Japan Socialist Party — 60,000; Democratic-Socialists — 60,000; and Communist Party — 150,000.2
Significance of Staphylococcus epidermidis in the Clinical Laboratory

Susceptibility to 11 antibiotics was determined for 63 cultures of Staphylococcus aureus and 63 cultures of Staphylococcus epidermidis obtained at random from the clinical laboratory. The incidence of resistance to nine of these antibiotics was greater for S. epidermidis than for S. aureus. Studies of the minimal inhibitory concentration of these cultures to clindamycin showed that 61 cultures of S. aureus were susceptible whereas only 46 cultures of S. epidermidis were susceptible to this antibiotic. Although cultures of S. aureus were more active in the production of seven virulence factors, some cultures of S. epidermidis produced virulence factors. By successive cultivation in increasing concentrations of clindamycin, resistant variants were obtained for 10 cultures of S. aureus and 3 cultures of S. epidermidis. The presence of subinhibitory concentrations of clindamycin inhibited the production of some virulence factors by the resistant variants. In view of the greater resistance of S. epidermidis to antibiotics and its ability to produce virulence factors, its isolation in the clinical laboratory should not be regarded lightly.
Principles of Real-Time Programming

Real-time programming is a software engineering discipline that has been around ever since the dawn of digital computing. The dream of real-time programmers is to unlock the virtually unlimited potential of software for embedded computer systems - digital computers that are supposed to behave like analog devices. The perfect embedded computer system is invisibly hybrid, it works according to the largely unidentified laws of embedded software but acts according to the laws of physics. The critical interface between embedded software and physics is real-time and yet, while physical processes evolve in real-time, software processes do not. Only the embedded computer system as a whole - embedded software and hardware - determines a complex notion of so-called soft-time to which the software processes adhere: mapping soft-time to real-time is the art of real-time programming. We discuss various realtime programming models that support the development of real-time programs based on different abstractions of soft-time. We informally introduce a real-time process model to study (1) the compositionality of the real-time programming models and (2) the semantics of real-time programs developed in these models.
Transcription Factors and Viral Regulatory Proteins as Potential Mediators of Human Cytomegalovirus Pathogenesis

The mechanism(s) of pathogenesis caused by persistent viruses such as the human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) are strongly associated with the control of transcription. In this chapter we explore in vitro systems which suggest the interplay of both viral and cellular regulatory factors as major determinants in controlling the expression state of HCMV. Importantly, we address the issue of both cellular transcription factors and viral regulatory proteins as possible mediators in the pathogenesis associated with HCMV infection.
Calibrations and Standards in Time Measurement

A discussion of time interval and time synchronization references is presented. The instrumentation and standards used to make these measurements are described, and sources of measurement uncertainty are discussed.
Ultrasonic equation of state of iron I. Low pressure, room temperature

Abstract The single crystal elastic constants of iron and their pressure variation to 3.6 kbar have been measured at room temperature by the ultrasonic pulse-echo technique. The result is expressed as the equation of state, − ΔV V 0 = 6.098 × 10 −7 P − 1.29 × 10 −12 P 2 (pressure in bars), which is compared with the 1940, 30 kbar, absolute compression determination of Bridgman, − ΔV V 0 = 5.941 × 10 −7 P − 0.83 × 10 −12 P 2 . Compression data to 30 kbar for other solids that were measured differentially with respect to iron are reconciled in both the first and second degree coefficients if these are corrected for the ultrasonic coefficients of iron. The correction is especially important for the second degree term and for incompressible materials.
Global histone acetylation and deacetylation in yeast

Histone acetyltransferases and deacetylases can be targeted to promoters to activate or repress genes. For example, the histone acetyltransferase GCN5 is part of a yeast multiprotein complex that is recruited by the DNA-binding activator protein GCN4 (refs 1-3). The histone deacetylase RPD3 complex is recruited to DNA by the repressor UME6 (refs 4, 5); similar mechanisms exist in other eukaryotes. However, deletion of RPD3 also increases expression of the PHO5 gene that is repressed by nucleosomes, and regulated by GCN5 (ref. 10) but not by UME6. We have determined whether acetylation and deacetylation are promoter specific at PHO5, by using antibodies against acetylated lysine residues and chromatin immunoprecipitation to examine the acetylation state of a 4.25-kilobase region surrounding the PHO5 gene. Here we show that this region is acetylated extensively by ESA1 and GCN5 and deacetylated by HDA1 and RPD3, and that widespread histone modification affects three separate chromosomal regions examined, which total 22kb. Our data indicate that targeted modification occurs in a background of global acetylation and deacetylation that not only reduces basal transcription, but also allows a rapid return to the initial state of acetylation when targeting is removed.
A Review of “Technology and Literacy: 21st Century Library Programming for Children and Teens”

Technology and Literacy: 21st Century Library Programming for Children and Teens is a useful guide that will help librarians develop workshops on using Scratch, the popular software application dev...
Phenotypic switching and filamentation in Candida glabrata.

Candida glabrata switches spontaneously, reversibly and at high frequency among the following four phenotypes distinguishable by graded colony colouration on CuSO4-containing agar: white (Wh), light brown (LB), dark brown (DB) and very dark brown (vDB). These phenotypes also differ in a graded fashion in the level of expression of the metallothionein gene MTII (Wh vDB), the frequency of switching (Wh>LB>DB>vDB) and colouration on phloxine B-containing agar (Wh>LB>DB>vDB). Switching among the four graded phenotypes is referred to as ‘the core switching system’. An additional switch phenotype, ‘irregular wrinkle’ (IWr), has been identified, which exhibits a highly wrinkled colony morphology. The characteristics of IWr suggest that switching to and from this phenotype represents a second high-frequency switching system. A microscopic analysis revealed that during the first 3 days of colony development, cells in the centres of Wh, LB, DB and vDB colonies expressed almost exclusively the budding yeast phenotype. After 3 days, however, pseudohyphae and cells extending tubes accumulated, so that by 7 days the proportions of these two cellular phenotypes reached 40–50% and 10–20%, respectively. In contrast, IWr colonies were composed almost exclusively of pseudohyphae through the first 6 days of colony development. After 6 days, IWr colonies began to accumulate both budding yeast cells and tubes. The tubes formed by C. glabrata reached lengths of up to six cell diameters, but the tubes did not represent traditional compartmentalized hyphae. Tube growth ended when the tube tip expanded to form a bud. Tubes then functioned as corridors for daughter nucleus migration to the apical bud, and were ultimately left uncompartmentalized and nucleus free. Core switching, pseudohypha formation and tube formation occurred in a majority of 62 tested clinical isolates, demonstrating that these developmental programmes are general characteristics of most strains of C. glabrata.
Toward A Remedy for International Extradition by Fraud: The Case of Leonard Peltier

The successful operation of international extradition agreements requires good faith and fairness from sovereign states in their dealings with one another. Fraud in the performance of treaty obligations derogates the underlying norms of international public order. If sovereign states are to trust one another in discharging their mutual obligations under any treaty, some body of imperative norms the violation of which is actionable by the victimized sovereign is necessary. However, while international extradition treaties impose reciprocal obligations on sovereign states, remedies for the violation of these assumed norms are deficient. This comment highlights the potential for abuse of international extradition agreements through fraud and the injustice resulting from the lack of adequate remedies for such abuse. The vehicle for this discussion is the case of Leonard Peltier.2 Peltier, an American Indian, was extradited from Canada to the United States to face trial on two counts of first degree murder for the deaths of two agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation at the Pine Ridge Reserva-
WHEN PARENTS CAN CHOOSE TO HAVE THE “PERFECT” CHILD: WHY FERTILITY CLINICS SHOULD BE REQUIRED TO REPORT PREIMPLANTATION GENETIC DIAGNOSIS DATA

Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) is a procedure used to screen embryos for certain genetic conditions before implantation via in vitro fertilization (IVF) so the desired embryos can be chosen for implantation. The procedure was originally used to prevent the birth of children with deadly genetic disorders, but it is now used for more controversial reasons, such as to select for sex. Limited information is available regarding how PGD is used in the United States and there are many ethical concerns surrounding the practice of PGD, most notably that it could lead to the creation of designer babies and eugenic practices. This Note proposes amending a federal act to require fertility clinics to report PGD data through an existing web-based system. This data can then be used by policymakers to federally regulate PGD practices.
Measurement of complex permittivity of lossy liquids using open-ended waveguide technique

Accurate measurement of complex permittivity of liquid materials at microwave frequencies has various applications such as in assessing the biological and medical effects of microwaves. Techniques for the measurement of complex permittivity include in-waveguide measurement and the open-ended waveguide technique. The latter technique is based on reflection or admittance measurements from which the dielectric (or magnetic) properties of materials can be determined. The technique is nondestructive and accurate. However, the open-ended waveguide structure is difficult for the measurement of liquid materials. We have designed a stepped flange to hold liquids. The effect of the stepped flange on the input admittance is measured. The complex permittivity of a number of liquid samples is measured using the designed flange and the results are compared with those measured using the in-waveguide technique.
Measurement of in-cylinder equivalence ratio during starting using a fast FID

In spite of the importance of the mixture preparation process during starting in affecting HC emissions, it has been poorly understood because the process is highly complicated by the multi component fuel, transient thermal environment, and two-phase mass transfer. For better understanding of the process, measurement of the equivalence ratio in the cylinder was attempted using a fast FID (Flame lonization Detector). Although extensive research has been made on the measurement using the fast FID, the method is not yet straightforward and needs careful operation. In this paper, the current status of the method is described. And within the limitations of the method the in-cylinder sampling test was conducted under the engine operating condition of 900 rpm, 0,527 bar intake pressure with gasoline injceted. The test results show that 15 to 20% of the injected fuel evaporates in the first cycle regardless of the amount of fuel injected. The lean limit of the equivalence ratio for engine firing was about 0.6. For secure firing in the first cycle, 5 to 6 times the stoichiometric fuel amount had to be injected. The contribution of the left-over fuel in the previous cycles to the mixture formation in the present cycle was found to be substantial.
Iron deficiency in blood donors: the REDS-II Donor Iron Status Evaluation (RISE) study.

Author(s): Cable, Ritchard G; Glynn, Simone A; Kiss, Joseph E; Mast, Alan E; Steele, Whitney R; Murphy, Edward L; Wright, David J; Sacher, Ronald A; Gottschall, Jerry L; Tobler, Leslie H; Simon, Toby L; NHLBI Retrovirus Epidemiology Donor Study-II (REDS-II) | Abstract: BackgroundBlood donors are at risk of iron deficiency. We evaluated the effects of blood donation intensity on iron and hemoglobin (Hb) in a prospective study.Study design and methodsFour cohorts of frequent and first-time or reactivated (FT/RA) blood donors (no donation in 2 years), female and male, totaling 2425, were characterized and followed as they donated blood frequently. At enrollment and the final visit, ferritin, soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR), and Hb were determined. Models to predict iron deficiency and Hb deferral were developed. Iron depletion was defined at two levels: iron deficiency erythropoiesis (IDE) [log(sTfR/ferritin) ≥ 2.07] and absent iron stores (AIS; ferritin l 12 ng/mL).ResultsAmong returning female FT and RA donors, 20 and 51% had AIS and IDE at their final visit, respectively; corresponding proportions for males were 8 and 20%. Among female frequent donors who returned, 27 and 62% had AIS and IDE, respectively, while corresponding proportions for males were 18 and 47%. Predictors of IDE and/or AIS included a higher frequency of blood donation in the past 2 years, a shorter interdonation interval, and being female and young; conversely, taking iron supplements reduced the risk of iron depletion. Predictors of Hb deferral included female sex, black race, and a shorter interdonation interval.ConclusionsThere is a high prevalence of iron depletion in frequent blood donors. Increasing the interdonation interval would reduce the prevalence of iron depletion and Hb deferral. Alternatively, replacement with iron supplements may allow frequent donation without the adverse outcome of iron depletion.
In-hospital mortality and stroke after surgical aortic valve replacement: A nationwide perspective.

Abstract Background Stroke is a widely recognized complication after aortic valve replacement (AVR), especially among elderly patients. The literature contains substantial variability in reports of the actual incidence of stroke after AVR among high-risk patients. Our objective was to define risk of stroke in patients undergoing surgical AVR, using a large national database. Methods We used the 2002 to 2011 Nationwide Inpatient Sample database for this analysis. All patients undergoing isolated AVR, or AVR with coronary artery bypass grafting (AVR + CABG), were identified using standard International Classification of Diseases codes. In-hospital mortality and any adverse neurologic event were the primary outcomes of the study. Results The incidence of in-hospital mortality was 3.0% and 5.1%, respectively, among patients undergoing isolated AVR and AVR + CABG; it was significantly lower in high-volume centers. The incidence of any adverse neurologic event was 2.0% and 2.9%, respectively, among patients undergoing isolated AVR, and AVR + CABG. We demonstrated a progressive increase in the risk of in-hospital mortality and adverse neurologic events with increasing age. Neurologic events increased with age, from 1.3% for patients aged 85 years, for isolated AVR; and from 2.3% to 3.6% for AVR + CABG. The incidence of in-hospital mortality was as high as 5.7% and 7.4%, respectively, among patients aged >85 years undergoing isolated AVR, and AVR + CABG. Similarly, the incidence of any adverse neurologic event was 3.2% and 3.6%, respectively, among patients aged >85 years undergoing isolated AVR, and AVR + CABG. In addition, the risk of adverse neurologic events was significantly higher in the high-risk surgical cohort, compared with the low-risk surgical cohort (odds ratio [95% confidence interval]; isolated AVR: 2.38 [1.99-2.86]; AVR + CABG: 1.88 [1.57-2.24]). Conclusions The incidence of in-hospital mortality and adverse neurologic events was significantly higher among patients with advanced age and elevated surgical risk.