cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Biochemical properties and atomic resolution structure of a proteolytically processed β-mannanase from cellulolytic Streptomyces sp. SirexAA-E.

β-mannanase SACTE_2347 from cellulolytic Streptomyces sp. SirexAA-E is abundantly secreted into the culture medium during growth on cellulosic materials. The enzyme is composed of domains from the glycoside hydrolase family 5 (GH5), fibronectin type-III (Fn3), and carbohydrate binding module family 2 (CBM2). After secretion, the enzyme is proteolyzed into three different, catalytically active variants with masses of 53, 42 and 34 kDa corresponding to the intact protein, loss of the CBM2 domain, or loss of both the Fn3 and CBM2 domains. The three variants had identical N-termini starting with Ala51, and the positions of specific proteolytic reactions in the linker sequences separating the three domains were identified. To conduct biochemical and structural characterizations, the natural proteolytic variants were reproduced by cloning and heterologously expressed in Escherichia coli. Each SACTE_2347 variant hydrolyzed only β-1,4 mannosidic linkages, and also reacted with pure mannans containing partial galactosyl- and/or glucosyl substitutions. Examination of the X-ray crystal structure of the GH5 domain of SACTE_2347 suggests that two loops adjacent to the active site channel, which have differences in position and length relative to other closely related mannanases, play a role in producing the observed substrate selectivity.
Magic from Social Networks that Talk to Management: Four Cases.

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to understand how social networks can help to produce the “magic” of extraordinary results for organizations.Design/methodology/approach – In this exploratory study four cases (from published reports) are compared in order to illustrate different management approaches to utilizing the power of networks.Findings – Social networks can be central to a strategy for organizational transformation (OT), as in three of these cases. They can also be fundamental to a firm's mode of organizing from its inception business and permanently, as in the second case (W.L. Gore). The three cases illustrate several approaches to connecting social networking with management's OT strategies. An important difference exists between informal, autonomous networks and networks that “talk” to management.Research limitations/implications – These cases illustrate what is possible, not what is typical. All four cases involve social networks already aligned to official goals. This exploration of ne...
CASSANES AND ANTHRAQUINONES FROM CHAMAECRISTA GREGGII

Abstract Roots and bark of Chamaecrista greggii furnished one known and one new cassane, one known and one new bis -norcassane, 16 anthraquinones, betulinic acid 3- O -coumarate and pyracenic acid, as well as common plant constituents. Structures of six anthraquinones previously reported from this species as new were revised. New as natural products were 5-hydroxy-1,4,6,7-tetramethoxy-2-methylanthraquinone, 4,5-dihydroxy-1,6,7-trimethoxy-2-methylanthraquinone, 1,4,6,7-tetramethoxy-2-methylanthraquinone, 4-hydroxy-1,5,6,7-tetramethoxy-2-hydroxymethylanthraquinone, 4,7-dihydroxy-1,5,6-trimethoxy-2-hydroxymethylanthraquinone and 4-hydroxy-5,6,7-trimethoxy-2-methylanthraquinone.
Effect of stress and other biopsychosocial factors on primary antibody response

Abstract There is growing evidence that life stress is associated with altered cellular immune function, but only a few studies have examined the effect of stress on humoral immune response. We immunized 89 healthy women (18–24 years) with a novel antigen, keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH), to study the impact of stressful events and psychosocial and biologic factors on primary antibody response to immunization. Antibodies to KLH were measured preimmunization and 3 and 8 weeks after immunization. Previously validated scales were used to measure (1) recent major stress (both “good” and “bad,” as defined by the subjects) and minor stressful events, and (2) psychological status and social support. Subjects were also asked about personal medical history, sociodemographics, and side effects of immunization. Subjects with more stressful events (of any type) tended to have lower baseline and 3-week postimmunization IgG levels. Those reporting more “good” events tended to have higher IgG levels at 8 weeks postimmunization. Psychological Distress scores correlated negatively and Psychological Wellbeing scores correlated positively with each IgG level. Subjects with a recent infection (preimmunization) or a local reaction to immunization had significantly higher IgG levels at all three points compared to those without these factors. These data and exploratory analysis suggest that recent stress and psychological status (perhaps representing the cumulative effects of stress and response to stress) may influence immune response to immunization. However, predisposing biological factors must also be assessed for possible confounding in the stress-immune response relationship.
Reproductive performance in rats with different histories of malnutrition

1. Reproductive competence, as measured by weight gain during pregnancy, duration of pregnancy and foetal outcome, was assessed in primiparous rats (4-6 months of age) with various histories of malnutrition. 2. Although weight gain during pregnancy was reduced in rats with intergenerational malnutrition, the duration of pregnancy and number of live births did not differ from well-fed controls, suggesting adaptation of these measures to long-term dietary deprivation. 3. Rats malnourished from birth through pregnancy (one generation of malnutrition) had fewer live births than did rats with chronic, intergenerational malnutrition or well-fed control rats. 4. Gestation was prolonged and weight gain accelerated among female rats with histories of intergenerational malnutrition, who had been provided with an adequate diet from birth through pregnancy. Reproductive performance is compromised in rats with severe malnutrition. However, the effects of malnutrition of longer duration, including intergenerational malnutrition, on performance (as measured by duration of and weight gain during pregnancy, and foetal outcome) are not known. Studies have shown that women of short stature, presumably with life-long histories of inadequate nutrition, had higher risk of a compromised pregnancy than women of normal stature (Baird, 1947; Bernard, 1952). Compromised pregnancies include those with complications, perinatal mortality, and premature births-(Baird & Illsley, 1953). These findings suggest that nutritional history before pregnancy significantly affects foetal outcome. Accordingly, we compared weight gain during pregnancy in rats with different histories of nutritional intake, including intergenerational malnutrition with or without dietary rehabilitation after birth, postnatal malnutrition, and adequate nutrition. Our results show that reproductive performance is most impaired by postnatal malnutrition, and that intergenerationally malnourished female rats adapt to achieve better reproductive performance.
Fault-population statistics at the Valles Marineris Extensional Province, Mars: implications for segment linkage, crustal strains, and its geodynamical development

Abstract The length distribution of normal faults and grabens in the Valles Marineris region of Mars reveals the importance of fault linkage on fault-length data sets. Fault-length data for the normal-fault segments produce a continuously curving distribution on a cumulative-length vs. frequency plot, assuming that the faults all slip independently, with an approximate slope of −2 for lengths 30
Genetic modification of cerebral arterial wall: implications for prevention and treatment of cerebral vasospasm

Genetic modification of cerebral vessels represents a promising and novel approach for prevention and/or treatment of various cerebral vascular disorders, including cerebral vasospasm. In this review, we focus on the current understanding of the use of gene transfer to the cerebral arteries for prevention and/or treatment of cerebral vasospasm following subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). We also discuss the recent developments in vascular therapeutics, involving the autologous use of progenitor cells for repair of damaged vessels, as well as a cell-based gene delivery approach for the prevention and treatment of cerebral vasospasm.
Group B streptococci causing neonatal bloodstream infection: antimicrobial susceptibility and serotyping results from SENTRY centers in the Western Hemisphere.

Objective: Group B streptococcal infection is a common cause of neonatal sepsis. Surveillance of antimicrobial susceptibility and serotype frequencies of invasive group B streptococci is important to ensure the effectiveness of therapeutic regimens and to guide vaccine development. Study Design: Prospective surveillance of neonatal bloodstream infection was performed at all Western Hemisphere sites participating in the SENTRY Program. From January 1997 through December 1999, a total of 122 isolates of bloodstream infections with group B streptococci were collected and sent to the University of Iowa for antimicrobial susceptibility testing and serotyping. Results: No isolates were resistant to penicillin. More than 25% of isolates from US hospitals and 14% of isolates from Canadian hospitals were erythromycin resistant. Seven percent of isolates from the United States and Canada were resistant to clindamycin. No clindamycin or erythromycin resistance was found among isolates from Latin America. Clindamycin and erythromycin resistance was most frequent among serotype V strains. Conclusions: No emerging resistance to penicillin was noted among bloodstream infection isolates of group B streptococci from a broad geographic area; erythromycin and clindamycin resistance was found in the United States and Canada and appeared most frequently among serotype V strains. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2000;183:859-62.)
Flash Technology for CCD Imaging in the UV

The introduction of the flash gate has made possible the fabrication of backside-illuminated CCDs with high sensitiv4y and stability throughout a wide range of ultraviolet and visible wavelengths (100-5000 A). It has been determined that the characteristics of the oxide layer beneath the gate are critical to the ultimate performance that can be achieved. By creating an improved oxide layer in conjunction with the flash gate, we are now able to consistently produce CCDs with near-ideal UV performance. In the interest of transferring flash technology to industry, we present in this paper recent results and related background theory that optimize the flash gate specifically for application in the UV.
Bi-static correlation radar for velocity sensing in spacecraft

Field-strength correlation can provide a means for velocity sensing which is particularly well suited to lunar landing missions. An earth-based transmitter directed toward the moon can set up an irregular field-strength distribution which is the sum of the direct wave and of many waves reflected from the lunar surface. This irregular pattern can be sensed by simple receivers with appropriately spaced antennas on a spacecraft. Because the field-strength pattern will be essentially stationary with respect to the lunar surface, the speed that is measured by cross correlating the features of the,pattern will be that of the vehicle with respect to the moon itself. Since this technique is based on tracking the peak of the correlation function, the nature of this function has been investigated both analytically and experimentally by simulation. In general, the results indicate that the correlation functions which would be obtained in the vicinity of the moon are suitable for tracking. A spaceborne velocity sensor employing this principle should be operable anywhere within a region defined by radial extension of the visible half of the moon out to an altitude of about 1000 miles.
Professional Training As A Factor In The Proliferation Of GIS Applications

Highly trained technicians and knowledgeable professional conceptualizations are two complementary ingredients necessary for effective applications of Geographic Information Systems. This study focuses on the kind of background and professional training required of the users and how they currently apply GIS. Results of a survey of two hundred users in Massachusetts, United States, reveal mat the majority do not possess formal training in the technique but developed the necessary skills on the job. Based on the length of their experience with GIS, two groups of users, the computer science experts and the planner/managers, emerged from the survey data. While the majority of these users are satisfied with their mastery of their respective systems, many users indicated that they needed between three and six months to become proficient in operating a GIS. Numerous cases of failures in attempts to implement a GIS were also cited by users. Deux ingredients complementaires sont necessaires pour une application ef...
Effectiveness, safety, and pharmacokinetics of quetiapine in aggressive children with conduct disorder.

ABSTRACT Objective: To provide an initial description of the effectiveness and pharmacokinetics (PK) of quetiapine in aggressive children with conduct disorder (CD). Method: This 8-week, open-label outpatient trial, enrolled patients ages 6 to 12 years with CD. Outcome measures included the Rating of Aggression Against People and/or Property Scale (RAAPPS), Nisonger Child Behavior Rating Form (NCBRF), and the Conners Parent Rating Scale (CPRS-48). Blood sampling for PK analyses occurred at the end of weeks 2 and 8. Results: Seventeen children (16 boys, mean age 8.9 years) were treated. The mean dose at week 8 was 4.4 mg/kg (SD = 1.1 mg/kg). Significant decreases in the baseline scores of the RAAPPS, and several subscales of the NCBRF and the CPRS were found by the end of the study (p Conclusions: These preliminary data suggest that aggressive children with CD may benefit from quetiapine. The PK of quetiapine supports twice-daily dosing in children with CD.
Power sum identities from a cube

By counting blocks within blocks, we geometrically derive several basic additive identities. More precisely, we consider a cube with edge length n,for any positive integer n.This cube may be envisioned as being built by n 3 cubes of unit edge length. Focusing upon these latter ‘building blocks’, we count the number of cubes, square based parallelepipeds and arbitrary parallelepipeds (boxes) that are formed by these blocks within the larger cube. By taking two approaches in counting the number of these geometric solids, formulas are found for the sum of the cubes, the fourth powers and the fifth powers, respectively, of the first npositive integers.
Chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans in the developing cerebral cortex: The distribution of neurocan distinguishes forming afferent and efferent axonal pathways

The first thalamocortical axons to arrive in the developing cerebral cortex traverse a pathway that is separate from the adjacent intracortical pathway for early efferents, suggesting that different molecular signals guide their growth. We previously demonstrated that the intracortical pathway for thalamic axons is centered on the subplate (Bicknese et al. [1994] J. Neurosci. 14:3500-3510), which is rich in chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans (CSPGs; Sheppard et al. [1991] J. Neurosci. 11:3928-3942), whereas efferent axons cross the subplate to exit in a zone containing much less CSPG. To define the molecular composition of the subplate further, we used antibodies against CSPG core proteins and chondroitin sulfate disaccharides in an immunohistochemical analysis of their distribution in the developing neocortex of the rat. Immunolabeling for neurocan, a central nervous system-specific CSPG (Rauch et al. [1992] J. Biol. Chem. 267:19537-19547), and for chondroitin 6-sulfate and unsulfated chondroitin becomes prominent in the subplate before the arrival of thalamic afferents. Immunolabeling is initially sparse in the cortical plate but appears later in maturing cortical layers. A postnatal decline in immunolabeling occurs uniformly for most proteoglycans, but, in the somatosensory cortex, labeling for neurocan, phosphacan, and chondroitin 4- and 6-sulfate declines in the centers of the whisker barrels before the walls. In contrast to neurocan, immunolabeling for other proteoglycans is either uniformly distributed (syndecan-1, N-syndecan, 5F3, phosphacan, chondroitin 4-sulfate), restricted to axons (PGM1), distributed exclusively on nonneuronal elements (2D6, NG2, and CD44), or undetectable (9.2.27, aggrecan, decorin). Thus, neurocan is a candidate molecule for delineating the intracortical pathway of thalamocortical axons and distinguishing it from that of cortical efferents.
Dynamic attacks on power systems economic dispatch

A dynamic data attack on a power system aimed at making the real time economic dispatch infeasible is considered. As a man-in-the-middle attack, the attack modifies part of sensor measurements such that the control center is misled with an incorrect system state estimate, which affects the computation of real time economic dispatch. Two attack mechanisms are considered. The first is an opportunistic approach where the attacker waits for a chance of a successful attack and launches an attack in a single state estimation period. The second is a dynamic attack strategy where the attacker gradually drifts the system state toward the infeasible region for real time economic dispatch. The efficacy of the proposed attacks is demonstrated by numerical experiments with the IEEE 14-bus network.
Viscous relaxation of craters within the martian south polar layered deposits

Abstract The South Polar Layered Deposits (PLD) are of fundamental importance to martian climatology, as they may comprise the largest reservoir of near-surface water on Mars. The South PLD exhibit relatively young crater retention surface ages, which are widely attributed to recent resurfacing. However, we show that both constructional and destructional resurfacing mechanisms (such as dust deposition and water ice sublimation, respectively) are inconsistent with the size, depth, and spatial distributions of South PLD craters. We demonstrate that another process—viscous creep relaxation of dusty water ice—is more compatible with the observed cratering of South PLD surfaces. The results of our finite element relaxation simulations suggest that, despite their apparent youthfulness, the PLD have been stable for at least several hundred million and perhaps even over a billion years. Consequently, our modeling implies that the time scales for the formation and preservation of the layers characteristic of the South (and possibly North) PLD are much longer than generally assumed.
Semantic video scene segmentation and transfer

Abstract In this paper we present a new approach to semantically segment a scene based on video activity and to transfer the semantic categories to other, different scenarios. In the proposed approach, a user annotates a few scenes by labeling each area with a functional category such as background, entry/exit, walking path, interest point. For each area, we calculate features derived from object tracks computed in real-time on hours of video. The characteristics of each functional area learned in the labeled training sequences are then used to classify regions in different scenarios. We demonstrate the proposed approach on several hours of three different indoor scenes, where we achieve state-of-the-art classification results.
Citizen Participation in Community Crime Prevention

Despite increasing activity in the area of community crime prevention (involving primarily the efforts of local residents), little research has focused on citizen participation. This paper calls into question the conventional wisdom that individuals participate in collective behavioral responses to crime as a result of some special fear of or concern about crime. Survey data are employed to reject hypotheses that posit an association between participation and crime-related perceptions. Using survey data from three cities and field research data from ten neighborhoods within those cities, we find that (1) most community groups undertake some form of collective responses to crime, (2) most of these are multiissue groups, (3) most people do not become involved with a group because of crime concerns, and (4) most people who are involved with a group that has an anticrime program participate in the anticrime efforts. Survey data are used to develop a model that argues that participation in community anticrime ...
Acute ischemic stroke

To optimize the recovery outcome of those with acute ischemic stroke, several steps need to be taken and strengthened by the public and medical personnel. These include immediate identification of stroke symptoms and appropriate actions, quick access to EMS, rapid EMS response, treatment and evacuation, early communication to the medical facility, rapid diagnosis and interventions, specialized treatment, evaluation of complications, precipitating and accompanying factors, and appropriate rehabilitation when applicable.
Adaptive changes of inner retina function in response to sustained pattern stimulation.

Abstract We have characterized adaptive changes of inner retina function in response to sustained pattern stimulation in 32 normal subjects with an age range 23–77 years by measuring changes of the pattern electroretinogram (PERG) as a function of time. Contrast-reversal stimuli had square-wave profile in space and time, with peak spatial and temporal frequency and high contrast to maximize response amplitude. The PERG signal was sampled over 5 min with a resolution of 15 s. PERG signals were non-stationary, resulting in either progressive amplitude decline or even enhancement to a plateau, with a time course that could be well described by an exponential function with a time constant of 1–2 min. Higher initial amplitudes were generally associated with amplitude decline, and lower initial amplitudes with enhancement. The delta amplitude (plateau minus initial) was a linear function of the initial amplitude. The magnitude of delta decreased with decreasing initial amplitude and inverted its sign for initial amplitudes about 1/3 lower than the maximum initial amplitude measured, but still about 3–4 times larger than the noise. Amplitude decline was generally associated with phase lag, whereas amplitude enhancement was associated with phase advance. Altogether, PERG generators appear to slowly adjust their gain in order to keep their sustained activity at an intermediate level that is rather independent of the level of activity at stimulus onset. This behavior is reminiscent of a buffering mechanism, where glial cells may play a primary role. An energy-budget model of neural–vascular–glial interaction is provided together with an equivalent electrical circuit that accounts for the results.
Clays as architectural units at modified-electrodes

Since Ghosh and Bard [80] first established the field of clay-modified electrodes some 15 years ago, great strides have been made in understanding the nature of the clay structural units and their impact on transport of a variety of electroactive probes (anions, neutrals, small cations, large cations, and compounds with distributed charge). Great strides have also been made in understanding the nature of the layered material in creating access of interlayer sites (size, charge, iron content, pillaring, and organic tailoring). In the last five years several successful applications of clay-modified electrodes have been achieved. Given the explosive growth in tailoring and construction of novel clay structures it seems reasonable to predict further significant advances in applications involving clay-modified electrodes.
Effects of soil temperature and moisture on the vertical distribution of European chafer larvae.

Larvae of the European chafer, Amphimallon majalis (Raz.), in the field, moved down in the soil as it dried, though no pronounced change in their vertical distribution was observed until after the drying had proceeded below the range of available soil moisture. In laboratory studies, first- and second-instar larvae responded to a small moisture difference between two adjoining very dry soils, but did not respond to a similar slight moisture difference between two wetter soils. Overwintering second-instar larvae migrated downward earlier in the fall, arrived at a greater winter depth, and moved back toward the surface later in the spring than did third-instar larvae. In the laboratory, secondinstar larvae responded to an artificially created temperature gradient by moving in largest numbers to soils having temperatures between 17° and 27°C.
InSPIRE System: An Activity-Based Platform for Managing and Monitoring Biomedical Research

There is growing need for research enterprises, such as academic medical centers, to measure, monitor, and evaluate the use and impact of institutional resources and services on research activity. To address this need, we have developed a web-based, mobile friendly, open-source system called In SPIRE (Information Sharing Platform for an Integrated Research Environment). We have designed In SPIRE based on activity theory, an established framework for analyzing work practices in terms of technical and social factors. We employed a spiral software development cycle to elicit system requirements based on activity theory, to define use cases, to implement an integrated, flexible architecture, and to validate the ability to capture data on specific research activities. In this work, we present the outcome of our novel design approach, namely an integrated multi-objective system that allows investigators to find and engage a range of research resources (such as cores, funding, and training) and that permits research administrators to track, measure, and assess the use of those resources in real time based on context-based abstraction of the data that is collected.
Role of the TDx FLM assay in fetal lung maturity.

OBJECTIVE: We evaluated the usefulness of the recently introduced TDx FLM assay in determining fetal lung maturity. STUDY DESIGN: The TDx FLM assay was compared with the lecithin/sphingomyelin ratio, the foam stability index. and the presence of phosphatidylglycerol in amniotic fluid samples from 102 pregnancies, among which respiratory distress syndrome developed in 22 infants. RESULTS: The TDx FLM assay met or exceeded results of other tests with respect to sensitivity (100% vs 86% to 100%). specificity (82% vs 38% to 78%). predictive value of a mature test result (100% vs 95% to 100%), predictive value of an immature test result (61% vs 31% to 51%), and efficiency (86% vs 51% to 79%). In a sequential testing strategy the TDx FLM assay performed well as the initial test. Our data indicate that the value for maturity suggested by the manufacturer may be more conservative than necessary. CONCLUSIONS: The TDx FLM assay appears to be a useful test in the field of fetal lung maturity testing.
Pilot study of new radiation-resistant plastic scintillators doped with 3-hydroxyflavone

Abstract A set of plastic scintillators using polyvinyltoluene or polystyrene as the base material, doped with p-terphenyl and/or 3-hydroxyflavone, and heated in an argon atmosphere to accelerate recovery, have displayed a significant resistance to radiation damage induced by a 250 Ci 60 Co gamma source.
Fading into the Horizon: the disappearance of Appalachian hollow communities and culture

The identity of an individual or community is highly dependent upon their cultural values and traditions. It is an industry that is causing the communities that occupy the hollows of Appalachia to lose these values and traditions. It has been found that the loss of cultural identity in Appalachian hollow communities is tied to local mountain top removal mining operations. Mountain top removal mining is the source of many jobs for these communities, but the mining process itself is causing environmental devastation and spreading disease through surrounding communities. This destruction has forced community members to choose between their health and their livelihood and is dividing the community into those who are “for” and “against” mountain top removal mining. This division of community goes against the traditions and values of the Appalachian hollow culture and is causing the eradication of communities, a lifestyle, a culture, and their identity.
Family Environmental and Genetic Influences on Children's Future Chemical Dependency

Abstract This article reviews possible genetic and environmental factors which contribute to future chemical dependency in children of aicohol and drug abusing parents. Studies on genetic vulnerability and biological markers of alcoholism and drug abuse are reviewed. Recent studies by the authors on characteristics of families with chemically dependent parents and the affective, cognitive, and behavioral impacts on the children are discussed. The conclusion includes recommendations concerning the need for more family-focused prevention interventions for children of chemically dependent parents.
Absence of olfactory conditioning in an oligophagous insect, the corn earworm, Heliothis zea (Boddie).

Summary Rearing Heliothis zea larvae collected on tobacco for three subsequent generations on corn does not appear to increase the ovipositing female's preference for corn.
A mechanistic perspective of atmospheric oxygen sensitivity on composite energetic material reactions

Abstract Solid energetic composites have been used and studied in standard air environments, yet the contribution of atmospheric oxygen to reactive material combustion has not been investigated. This study experimentally examines the effect of atmospheric oxygen concentration (4% or 93% oxygen) on energy propagation of nanometric aluminum with copper oxide (Al + CuO), iron oxide (Al + Fe 2 O 3 ), calcium iodate (Al + Ca(IO 3 ) 2 ), and iodine pentoxide (I 2 O 5 ). In all cases energy propagation was examined in terms of flame speed and higher in the high oxygen environments. However, the convectively dominant reactions showed a smaller percent increase in flame speed mainly attributed to the reaction mechanism.
Effects of Tone Cessation and Warning Signal Duration on Temporal Responding in an Avoidance Procedure

Six albino rats responded by lever-pressing to avoid grid shock in a free-operant, signaled avoidance situation. Tone cessation was the warning signal for 3 Ss while tone onset was the warning signal for a fourth S. The distribution of avoidance responses during successive reductions of the response-to-warning signal interval indicated a temporal discrimination during the warning signal. Immediate stimulus control, i.e., occurrence of the greatest amount of avoidance responses immediately following the occurrence of the warning signal, was not observed.
Rib cage deformities in scoliosis : spine morphology, rib cage stiffness, and tomography imaging

A computer-implemented biomechanical model of a thoracolumbar spine and deformable rib cage was used to investigate the influence of spine morphology and rib cage stiffness properties on the rib cage deformities that arise from scoliosis and to study the relationship of actual rib distortions with those seen on computed tomography (CT) scans. For the purposes of this study, it was assumed that rib cage deformities result from forces imposed on the ribs by the deforming spine. When a structurally normal rib cage was allowed to follow freely the imposition of scoliotic curves on the spine, different configurations of scoliosis led to substantial differences in the resulting rib cage deformities. Rib cage lateral offset correlated well with the Cobb angle of the scoliosis but not with the apical vertebral axial rotation, whereas rib cage axial rotation correlated well with apical vertebral axial rotation but not with the Cobb angle. These model-obtained findings mirror clinical findings that correction of the Cobb angle leads to correction of the lateral offset of the rib cage but does not correlate well with correction of the rib cage axial rotation. The stiffnesses of the ligamentous tissue connecting the sternum to the pelvis, of the costovertebral joints, and of the ribs themselves also influenced the rib deformities substantially. The influence of the sternopelvic ligamentous ties has not been recognized previously. The total rib cage volume remained essentially constant regardless of the severity of the resulting deformity, but the distribution of this volume between convex and concave sides varied somewhat.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Marital Status After Epilepsy Surgery

Summary: Purpose: To characterize features influencing marital status in a group of patients with refractory epilepsy before and after epilepsy surgery and to assess the effect of seizure control on marital status after epilepsy surgery. Methods: We analyzed marital status in 430 epilepsy surgery patients and in a subset with temporal lobe epilepsy. Marital status was assessed in relation to gender and age of epilepsy onset and compared with marital rates for the U.S. population. Patients who had 4 years of postsurgical follow-up were examined for change in marital status after surgery. Those patients who changed marital status were then evaluated for change in employment. Results: Marital rates were lower than expected in men. Men with onset of epilepsy by age 11 years were less likely to be married than men whose seizures began after age 11 or women whose seizures began at any age. Men and women with temporal lobe epilepsy had higher marriage rates than those with extratemporal lobe epilepsy. More than 4 years after epilepsy surgery (n = 190), patients who had no recurrent seizures were more likely to change marital status (28 of 124, 23%), than those who had recurrent seizures (five of 66, 8%). Seizure-free women were more likely to divorce (n = 9) than were seizurefree men (n = 1). Most men who married were employed (77%), whereas women who divorced were usually unemployed (67%). Conclusions: The age at which seizures begin influences later marital status in men, who have reduced marriage rates. The abolition of seizures by epilepsy surgery creates new opportunities for changing social relationships. Location of the epileptic focus may influence psychosocial function.
Determination of tricalcium aluminate and tetracalcium aluminoferrite when jointly present

Our investigations enabled us to select optimum solution conditions for the mineral C3A. We studied the solution of calcium oxide from C3A under optimum conditions and from C4AF under the solution conditions selected for C3A. We have devised formulas for calculating the content of C3A and C4AF that take into account the incomplete selectivity of a 10% sugar solution.
Relapse severity and recovery in early pediatric multiple sclerosis.

Background:Factors determining severity and recovery of early demyelinating events in pediatric multiple sclerosis (MS) patients are unknown.Objective:The objective of this study was to characterize the severity and recovery of early demyelinating events in pediatric MS.Methods:Multivariate logistic regression was performed to determine predictors of severe (versus mild/moderate) relapses and poor or fair (versus complete) recovery in patients aged 18 years or less with MS or clinically isolated syndrome (CIS).Results:Optic nerve involvement (OR 4.30, 95% CI 1.50–12.3, p = 0.007) was associated with a severe initial demyelinating event (IDE), while non-White race (OR 2.55, 95% CI 0.87–7.49, p = 0.088), localization to the cerebral hemispheres (OR 7.94, 95% CI 0.86–73.8, p = 0.068), or encephalopathy (OR 8.70, 95% CI 0.86–88.0, p = 0.067) showed a trend towards increased IDE severity. A similar association with race was found for severe second events. A severe IDE (OR 6.90, 95% CI 2.47–19.3, p < 0.001) was...
Cooperative Regulatory Enforcement and the Politics of Administrative Effectiveness.

Even when political interests control bureaucratic outputs, the control of policy outcomes is complicated by trade-offs between controllable versus effective implementation strategies. I use a nested game framework to explain why a cooperative strategy can increase enforcement effectiveness in the narrow administrative game and why principal-agent control problems and collective action problems associated with the strategy lead policy beneficiaries to oppose the effective strategy in the broader political games. Analyses of state-level Occupational Safety and Health Administration enforcement provide evidence that cooperation does enhance the impact of enforcement in reducing workplace injury rates but that policy beneficiaries oppose and sabotage cooperation. The interactions between administrative effectiveness and interest group politics in this and other implementation situations require that both be analyzed simultaneously, and the nested game framework can provide a systematic approach to such analyses.
First results from the Terra Multi-angle Imaging SpectroRadiometer (MISR)

The Multi-angle Imaging SpectroRadiometer (MISR) is one of five instruments aboard the EOS Terra platform. MISR acquires pushbroom images of the Earth at 9 viewing angles ranging from 70.5/spl deg/ forward to 70.5/spl deg/ aftward of nadir, in 4 visible/near-IR spectral bands. Data are acquired over a swath width of approximately 400 km, with selectable footprints in each channel ranging from 275 m to 1.1 km.
Machine Vision: A Multi-Disciplinary Systems Engineering Problem

The successful application of image processing to industrial inspection and measurement requires the combining of a number of techniques from different disciplines including optics, electronics, computer hardware and software design, and mechanical engineering. The main subsystems of a typical machine vision system are the image capture subsystem, incorporating sensors and image digitization, the image processing subsystem, where the required information is extracted from the image, and the control subsystem, which uses the information obtained to control a task or activity. In recent years, the commercial availability of general purpose modules such as cameras, frame grabbers, robots, and their controllers has simplified system design considerably. The advent of very large scale integrated circuit technology is broadening the range of applications of machine vision by enabling fast hardware to be designed.
Using videoconferencing mediated mentoring to support an adjunct faculty

Mentoring is an effective way to orient new employees to an organization’s work climate. Many colleges operating in multiple locations and providing programs for working adults through evening classes rely on the expertise of adjunct faculty to provide instructional methods. The research literature about mentoring in a higher education context mainly focuses on mentoring full time faculty members. Therefore, this case study is believed to address the gap as it focuses on understanding the mentoring of adjunct faculty. The researchers of the present study believe that utilizing videoconferencing as a tool to mentor new adjunct faculty could be beneficial in the context of any college serving in multiple sites. The purpose of the study is to (a) to determine if videoconferencing is an effective tool in mentoring adjunct faculty, and (b) to determine if videoconferencing mediated mentoring (VMM) is effective for full time faculty in disseminating the strategies and skills to qualified adjunct faculty. VMM implemented in the study includes essential segments – pre-course professional development section, interim course hands-on training and support section, and the post course section to evaluate findings. Data analysis through mentor and mentee logs and surveys proved that VMM is a valuable medium to utilize for training purposes. This type of technology provides a platform for the full time faculty member to build a professional relationship and share the standard of excellence for a given field of study to new adjunct faculty member.
More than one way to make a tail

The 3′UTR in mRNAs plays an important role in regulating the expression of the corresponding transcripts. Here Bill Marzluff highlights work from the Anderson lab that describes an unexpected active role for a non-canonical poly(A) polymerase in regulating 3′ end cleavage and polyadenylation of specific stress responsive transcripts.
Herpetofauna of Montane Areas of Tanzania. 5. Range Extension of Phrynobatrachus sulfureogularis (Anura, Phrynobatrachidae) from Burundi to the Mahale Mountains of Western Tanzania with a Redescription of the Species

Abstract Two large forest Phrynobatrachus (male, snout–urostyle length 42.2 mm; subadult, snout–urostyle length 27.4 mm) were collected from the Mahale Mountains in Tanzania, exhibiting a large tympanum (55%–76% of the eye diameter), large digital discs, and a bright yellow throat in males. A comparison of these two individuals with all described Phyrnobatrachus species was made, and they were found to fit the description of P. sulfureogularis, a poorly known species only known from the type locality in Burundi. This new population represents a substantial southern range extension or potentially a similar, yet undescribed species.
The epidemiology of narcolepsy in Olmsted County, Minnesota: a population-based study.

Study objectives To determine the age- and sex-specific incidence rates and prevalence of narcolepsy in a United States community. Design The records-linkage system of the Rochester Epidemiology Project was utilized to ascertain all patients with narcolepsy seen in Olmsted County, Minnesota between 1960 and 1989. Age- and sex-specific incidence rates were calculated, using census data. Prevalence of narcolepsy on January 1,1985 was calculated. Setting N/A. Patients or participants Community patients diagnosed with narcolepsy by a validated set of diagnostic criteria. Interventions N/A. Measurements and results The incidence rate per 100,000 persons per year was 1.37 (1.72 for men and 1.05 for women). The incidence rate was highest in the 2nd decade, followed in descending order by the 3rd, 4th and 1st decades. The prevalence on January 1, 1985 was 56.3 per 100,000 persons. Approximately 36% of prevalence cases did not have cataplexy. Conclusions Narcolepsy is not a rare disorder. It appears to be commoner in men. It originates most commonly in the 2nd decade. Narcolepsy without cataplexy is an important subgroup, warranting further study.
Characteristics of children with autism spectrum disorders who received services through community mental health centers

Despite the presence of significant psychiatric comorbidity among children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), little research exists on those who receive community-based mental health services. This project examined one year (2004) of data from the database maintained by 26 community mental health centers (CMHCs) in the Midwestern US state of Kansas. Children with autism were compared to children with other ASDs - Asperger's disorder, Rett's disorder, and PDD-NOS. Children with autism predictably received more special education services than children with other ASDs, while the latter were more likely to have experienced prior psychiatric hospitalization. Children with ASDs other than autism were also significantly more likely to be diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, depressive disorders, and bipolar disorder. In 2004, Kansas CMHCs served less than 15 percent of the children estimated to have an ASD. Implications of these findings are discussed.
Value of the Sisters’ Performance in Selecting Breeding Cockerels

Abstract BREEDING cockerels have been selected for a number of years on the basis of their dam’s individual record. More recently most poultry specialists have been advocating that the progeny test be used as a basis for all selection work. In breeding for egg production a male is approximately 2½ years of age before the progeny test data become available. In actual practice proved males are used relatively little, and cockerels are selected on the basis of their sisters’ performance, rather than on the basis of the performance of their daughters. The purpose of this study is to determine the value of the sisters’ records as compared with the dam’s in selecting cockereles (whose daughters will give good performance. Published investigations on the value of the sib-test are very meager. Tomhave (1941) published the results of a well controlled experiment to determine the value of sib-tested cockerels for transmitting intensity of . . .
Control of state and input covariances for dynamic systems

The set of all state and input covariances that a linear closed-loop system may possess is characterized. For any choice of state covariance within this set, all dynamic controllers which assign those covariances are parameterized. The number of free parameters in these controllers is related to the excess of the controller order over the sum of the number of controls and measurements. If the desired state covariance is not assignable, it is also proved that for the state feedback case the controllers presented are the closest solutions to the corresponding Lyapunov equation in the norm sense. >
Homologous cellular proteins associated with simian virus 40 small T antigen and polyomavirus medium T antigen.

The simian virus 40 small T-associated 56,000-Mr (56K) and 32K cellular proteins were shown to be closely related to the polyomavirus medium T-associated 61K and 37K cellular proteins as demonstrated by two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and V8 protease peptide mapping. Images
Characterization of in vitro and in vivo phenotypes of poliovirus type 1 mutants with reduced viral protein synthesis activity.

Sabin vaccine strains of poliovirus (PV) contain major attenuation determinants in the internal ribosomal entry site (IRES), an area that directs viral protein synthesis. To examine the effect of reduced viral protein synthesis on PV neurovirulence, spacer sequences, consisting of short open reading frames of different lengths, were introduced between the IRES and the initiation codon of viral polyprotein, resulting in PV mutants with reduced viral protein synthesis. These PV mutants had a viral protein synthesis activity 8·8–55 % of that of the parental Mahoney strain as measured in HeLa S3 cells. Only viruses with more than 28 % of the wild-type activity had intact spacer sequences following plaque purification. Mutants with 17 % or 21 % of the wild-type activity were unstable and a mutant with 8·8 % was lethal. The neurovirulence of PV mutants was evaluated in transgenic mice carrying the human PV receptor gene. In this test, mutants with more than 28 % of the wild-type activity remained neurovirulent, while a mutant with 17 % of wild-type activity exhibited a partially attenuated phenotype. This mutant stably replicated in the spinal cord; however, the stability was severely affected during the course of virus infection from the cerebrum to the spinal cord. These results suggest that reduced viral protein synthesis activity as measured in cultured cells (17–55 % of the wild-type activity) is not the main determinant of PV attenuation.
Sneutrino Higgs models explain lepton non-universality in eejj, eνjj excesses

Recent searches for first-generation leptoquarks and heavy right-handed W R bosons have seen excesses in final states with electrons and jets. A bizarre property of these excesses is that they appear to violate lepton universality. With these results in mind, we study the phenomenology of supersymmetric models in which the Higgs arises as the sneutrino in an electron supermultiplet. Since the electron is singled out in this approach, one can naturally account for the lepton flavor structure of the excesses. In this work, we show that in such a framework, one can significantly alleviate the tension between the Standard Model and the data and yet evade current constraints from other searches. Lastly we point out that correlated excesses are expected to be seen in future multilepton searches.