cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The accuracy of SPECT brain activation images: Propagation of registration errors

Functional single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) images of brain activation are based on a comparison of base line and activation images. The correctness of the functional images depends, among other factors, on the accurate spatial registration (alignment) of the base line and activation image data. The relationship between the registration errors and the errors of the resulting functional images is studied. It is shown that misregistration errors as small as a shift by 1/8 pixel or rotation by 1 degree result in 5%-10% errors of the pixel values of functional SPECT images of regional blood flow (the ratio and the relative difference images).
V. The effects of drugs on the motility of isolated segments of the intestine of man

1. These experiments would compel the conclusions that pituitrin alone is a constant motor stimulant of the large and the small intestine of man. It increases motility without effect on intestinal tonus. Its action is rapid and powerful.
Type III mixed cryoglobulinemia and antiphospholipid syndrome in a patient with partial DiGeorge syndrome

We studied a 14 year-old boy with partial DiGeorge syndrome (DGS), status post complete repair of Tetralogy of Fallot, who developed antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and type III mixed cryoglobulinemia. He presented with recurrent fever and dyspnea upon exertion secondary to right pulmonary embolus on chest computed tomography (CT). Coagulation studies revealed homozygous methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase 677TT mutations, elevated cardiolipin IgM antibodies, and elevated β2-glycoprotein I IgM antibodies. Infectious work-up revealed only positive anti-streptolysin O (ASO) and anti-DNAse B titers. Autoimmune studies showed strongly positive anti-platelet IgM, elevated rheumatoid factor (RF), and positive cryocrit. Renal biopsy for evaluation of proteinuria and hematuria showed diffuse proliferative glomerulonephritis (DPGN) with membranoproliferative features consistent with cryoglobulinemia. Immunofixation showed polyclonal bands. Our patient was treated successfully with antibiotics, prednisone, and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF). This is the first report of a patient with partial DGS presenting with APS and type III mixed cryoglobulinemia possibly due to Streptococcal infection.
Death ligands and bisindolylmaleimide: a killer combination.

Commentary to: Bisindolymaleimide IX Induces Reversible and Time-Dependent Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor Family-Mediated Caspase Activation and Cell Death Oskar W. Rokhlin and Michael B. Cohen
The Brookhaven process optimization models

Abstract The Brookhaven National Laboratory Industry Model Program (IMP) has undertaken the development of a set of industry-specific process optimization models. These models are to be used for energy use projections, energy policy analyses and process technology assessments. Applications of the models currently under development show that system-wide energy impacts may be very different from engineering estimates, selected investment tax credits for cogeneration (or other conservation strategies) may have the perverse effect of increasing industrial energy use, and that a proper combination of energy taxes and investment tax credits is more socially desirable than either policy alone. A section is included describing possible extensions of these models to answer questions or address other systems (e.g. a single plant instead of an entire industry).
Gravitation and Celestial Mechanics Investigations with Galileo

The gravitation and celestial mechanics investigations during the cruise phase and Orbiter phase of the Galileo mission depend on Doppler and ranging measurements generated by the Deep Space Network (DSN) at its three spacecraft tracking sites in California, Australia, and Spain. Other investigations which also rely on DSN data, and which like ours fall under the general discipline of spacecraft radio science, are described in a companion paper by Howard et al. (1992). We group our investigations into four broad categories as follows: (1) the determination of the gravity fields of Jupiter and its four major satellites during the orbital tour, (2) a search for gravitational radiation as evidenced by perturbations to the coherent Doppler link between the spacecraft and Earth, (3) the mathematical modeling, and by implication tests, of general relativistic effects on the Doppler and ranging data during both cruise and orbiter phases, and (4) an improvement in the ephemeris of Jupiter by means of spacecraft ranging during the Orbiter phase. The gravity fields are accessible because of their effects on the spacecraft motion, determined primarily from the Doppler data. For the Galilean satellites we will determine second degree and order gravity harmonics that will yield new information on the central condensation and likely composition of material within these giant satellites (Hubbard and Anderson, 1978). The search for gravitational radiation is being conducted in cruise for periods of 40 days centered around solar opposition. During these times the radio link is least affected by scintillations introduced by solar plasma. Our sensitivity to the amplitude of sinusoidal signals approaches 10−15 in a band of gravitational frequencies between 10−4 and 10−3 Hz, by far the best sensitivity obtained in this band to date. In addition to the primary objectives of our investigations, we discuss two secondary objectives: the determination of a range fix on Venus during the flyby on 10 February, 1990, and the determination of the Earth’s mass (GM) from the two Earth gravity assists, EGA1 in December 1990 and EGA2 in December 1992.
A cellation of the Grassmann manifold

Motivated by the computation of equilibria in economic models with incomplete asset markets, a cellation of the Grassmann manifold is constructed by restricting a common atlas. The Grassmann manifold ofm-planes inn-dimensional space is shown to be a union ofn choosem congruentm(n−m)-dimensional topological disks whose interiors are disjoint.
Differential Effects of Ubiquitin Aldehyde on Ubiquitin and ATP-Dependent Protein Degradation†

ATP-dependent proteolysis of 125I-labeled human α-globin, bovine α-lactalbumin, bovine serum albumin, or chicken lysozyme was assessed in a rabbit reticulocyte extract supplemented with ATP, excess ubiquitin, and variable amounts of ubiquitin aldehyde (Ubal), an inhibitor of many ubiquitin−protein isopeptidases. Low concentrations (0.8 μM) of Ubal increased the ATP-dependent degradation of 125I-α-globin by ∼30% after 2 h at 37 °C, had little effect on 125I-lysozyme turnover, and decreased 125I-α-lactalbumin or 125I-albumin degradation by ∼20%. The ATP-dependent degradation of all substrates was inhibited by high concentrations (>3 μM) of Ubal throughout the incubation (15 min to 2 h); after 2 h, this inhibition ranged from 15% for 125I-α-globin to ∼85% for 125I-α-lactalbumin and 125I-albumin. Levels of ubiquitin−125I-protein conjugates were increased significantly with Ubal; with ≥8.0 μM Ubal, high molecular mass multiubiquitinated conjugates were particularly evident for 125I-α-globin and 125I-α-lactalbu...
On the origin of microstructure self-similarity in severe plastic deformation

Abstract In a series of papers by Hughes, Hansen and their coauthors it was established that laminar microstructures developed in compression and rolling possess a surprising property: probability distribution of misorientations referred to the average misorientation is universal, i.e. slightly dependent on the material and the magnitude of plastic deformation. A similar fact was found for lamina spacings. This paper aims to derive these probability distributions from “first principles”. As such two propositions are suggested: microstructures that are compatible with the prescribed physical and geometrical conditions are equiprobable, and the product misorientation×spacing cannot be smaller than some number. It turns out that the low bound for misorientation×spacing can be chosen in such a way that the experimental and theoretical curves are close. The corresponding value of the low bound is in a nanoscale range.
Design and testing of an external drag balance for a hypersonic shock tunnel

Abstract An external force balance for a hypersonic shock tunnel was developed. The design utilized finite element analysis that identified the dynamics of the balance. A simulated impulse and a step load were applied to the design, the former for determining the simulated transfer function and the latter to validate the design. The numerical modeling showed the feasibility of this approach for designing stress wave force balances. A force balance based on the design was fabricated, calibrated statically and dynamically, and implemented in a shock tunnel for measuring drag of a blunt cone at Mach 9.4. The measured drag compared well with modified Newtonian theory.
The historical lessons of human rights: In search of a new approach

(1996). The historical lessons of human rights: In search of a new approach. The European Legacy: Vol. 1, Fourth International Conference of the International Society for the study of European Ideas, pp. 498-503.
A Data Model for Use with Formatted and Textual Data.

Un modele de donnees regroupe trois composantes: un ensemble d'objets, des operateurs et des lois d'integrite; sa structure peut etre hierarchique, en reseau ou relationnelle. L'application a la structure de la recherche documentaire a necessite le plus souvent le recours a une structure relationnelle. A partir d'une description des ordres et structures logiques d'une recherche documentaire, une analyse algorithmique est faite
Distributed estimation using binary data transmitted over fading channels

We study the parametric distributed estimation problem using a wireless sensor network (WSN) where each sensor observes an unknown scalar parameter, quantizes its observation and sends its quantized observation to a fusion center via fading and noisy communication channels. We propose to incorporate channel statistics rather than the instantaneous channel state information (CSI) into the maximum likelihood (ML) formulation and show that the resulting likelihood function is strictly log-concave almost surely with a change of variable provided that at least one of the communication channels between the sensors and the fusion center has nonzero capacity. We also investigate the effects of channel layer on the sensor threshold design and show that the threshold design problem is coupled with the channel layer and the sensor signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) only for nonsymmetric channels. Our formulation is very general in the sense that no assumptions are made about the physical layer in terms of the modulation schemes and the reception techniques.
Image Converter Camera For 0.5 To 10,000 Microsecond Photographs

Equipment is described for making photographs using an image converter tube as an electronic shutter. When operating in the framing mode, the camera will take three frames 10 to 10,000 psec apart with exposure times from 0.5 to 5000 psec. Each frame has a maximum diameter of 25 mm. When operating in the streak mode, the camera has streak times from 10 to 10,000 p.sec. The streak picture is about 60mm long and 25mm wide. The equipment uses the RCA 73435D image converter tube. A standard oscilloscope camera is used to record the images. Design of the equipment is discussed and circuits for controlling and timing the photographs described.
Quantitative ultrasound assessment of HIFU induced lesions in rodent liver

Quantitative ultrasound (QUS) techniques have been used for tissue characterization by discriminating between tissues of differing microstructure. High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) is a means for minimal or non-invasive therapy, which results in changes in tissue microstructure. However, significant challenges remain for the monitoring and assessment of HIFU therapy. Conventional B-mode imaging is not reliable for detection and assessment of thermal lesions produced by HIFU. Because of QUS sensitivity to microstructure changes, it was hypothesized that QUS could assess thermal lesions. A 1-MHz single-element focused transducer (f/1.1) was used to produce thermal lesions in ex-vivo rat liver. The focal intensities used to generate lesions were measured to be between 1500 and 2500 W/cm2 in degassed water using a calibrated needle hydrophone. These exposures were monitored using a clinical ultrasound array (L14–5, Ultrasonix). Treated and untreated regions as determined by histology and visual inspection were compared to parametric images of QUS parameters (Effective Scatterer Diameter (ESD), and Effective Acoustic Concentration (EAC)). An average increase in ESD of 15% was observed in three samples, while EAC estimates decreased by 4.3 dB. These findings suggest that QUS can be used for non-invasive assessment of thermal lesions.
Delayed Abdominal Closure in the Management of Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

The objective of this study was to compare initial use of the open abdomen using the vacuum-pack technique followed by delayed abdominal closure with standard primary abdominal closure in the treatment of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (rAAA) repair. A retrospective review identified 122 rAAA cases, which were divided into two management eras: era 1 (primarily closed) and era 2 (47% open abdomen).One hundred three patients were included in this review: 58 in era 1 and 45 in era 2. Evidence of one of three ischemia-reperfusion (IR) criteria, preoperative hypotension, estimated blood loss > or = 6 L, or intraoperative resuscitation with > or = 12 L, predicted mortality. These criteria were also used as surrogate clinical markers for abdominal compartment syndrome. The in-hospital mortality was higher in those with at least one IR criterion: 43% versus 10% (p = .0003). In those with at least one IR criterion, the initial 24-hour mortality was 21% for era 1 versus 0% for era 2 (p = .03), and the 30-day mortality was 40% for era 1 and 32% for era 2 (p = .77).Three IR criteria were identified and were associated with increased mortality. Patients with these risk factors who were treated with delayed abdominal closure had an improved acute survival rate and a trend for improved long-term survival.
Covering bounds for codes

Abstract Given an [n, k]R code C, and a subcode H of C with codimension j, define S H j (C) = max x∈ F 2 n {d(x, H) + d(x, C H )} , and define the j-norm, Sj(C) to be the minimum value of SHj(C) as H ranges over the subcodes with codimension j. We prove that if k (n + 1) > R (R + 1) , then S1(C) ⩽ 2R + 1.
Definition of a quit attempt: a replication test.

Introduction: The incidence of quit attempts is often used to measure the effects of tobacco control interventions. Many surveys of quit attempts require that the attempt last ≥24 hr, presumably to provide a more objective definition and to eliminate less serious attempts; however, this criterion may bias outcomes by excluding the more dependent quitters who cannot stop for 1 day despite a serious quit attempt. Methods: We examined the 2003 and the 2006–2007 Tobacco Use Supplements to the Current Population Survey to determine the prevalence of quit attempts that did and did not last 24 hr, both in the last 12 months and in one’s lifetime among current daily smokers. We also tested the hypothesis that those unable to quit for 24 hr were the more dependent smokers. Results: Requiring quit attempts to last 24 hr excluded 6%–17% of smokers who stated they made a quit attempt. Whether smokers who could not quit for more than 24 hr were more dependent varied across survey, recall duration, and measure. Conclusions: We conclude restricting quit attempts to those who have quit for 24 hr underestimates the prevalence of attempts. Whether those unable to quit for 24 hr are the more dependent smokers is unclear. Empirical tests of whether the addition of a 24-hr criterion increases reliability or validity are needed.
Random pattern testable logic synthesis

Previous procedures for synthesis of testable logic guarantee that all faults in the synthesized circuits are detectable. However, the detectability of many faults in these circuits can be very low leading to poor random pattern testability. A new procedure to perform logic synthesis that synthesizes random pattern testable multilevel circuits is proposed. Experimental results show that the circuits synthesized by the proposed procedure tstfx are significantly more random pattern testable and smaller than those synthesized using its counterpart fast_extract (fx) in SIS. The proposed synthesis procedure design circuits that require only simple random pattern generators in built-in self-test, thereby obviating the need for complex BIST circuitry.
Optimal estimation of training interval for channel equalization

In this paper, an optimal training equalization for wireless communication is proposed and analyzed. By our scheme, the training of the equalizer is carried out periodically, with the training interval optimized for a maximal channel utilization. A closed-form expression for the optimal training interval is derived via a semi-Markov process which requires the knowledge of the channel equalization failure time distribution. A statistical estimation algorithm with complexity O(n/sup 2/) is presented and applied to adaptively estimate and track the optimal interval when the failure time distribution is not available. Numerical results show that by choosing the optimal training interval, the channel utilization can be improved and the statistical estimation algorithm can effectively approach the optimal solution with a reasonable number of failure time data points. By comparing this scheme with nonperiodic training scheme and the mean time to failure (MTTF)-based heuristic scheme, we find that our scheme outperforms the nonperiodic training scheme and provides an upper bound for MTTF-heuristic scheme.
SUPERVOLCANOES AND THEIR EXPLOSIVE SUPERERUPTIONS

Earth's largest volcanic eruptions were an order of magnitude larger than any witnessed by humans since the advent of civilization. These “supereruptions” have played an important role in our species' past and they pose a serious future threat. In this issue of Elements , we consider key issues that reflect both the scientific and social importance of these awe-inspiring phenomena: the products and processes of the eruptions themselves, the nature and evolution of the shallow magma chambers that feed them, the monitoring of active supervolcano systems, and the potential consequences to humans of future supereruptions.
Managing project task time uncertainty with probabilistic time buffers

Large-scale projects often include numerous tasks with uncertain durations. This results in complex probabilistic project networks that are difficult to manage because there are no well-defined critical paths. Since the joint probability of successfully completing all paths in these project networks before pre-defined due dates can be very low, it is beneficial to position time buffers to help ensure the completion of subtasks and the overall project. Unfortunately, because the number of potential buffer locations is large and the benefits of each involve numerous complex probabilistic interactions with other tasks and buffers, the best solution is difficult to determine. In addition, the best plans are likely to change over time as uncertain outcomes are realised and new information about future tasks is introduced. In response to this problem, this research introduces and tests a new approach that can be used to position (and reposition) time buffers at each project review.
Superluminal neutrinos and extra dimensions: Constraints from the null energy condition

In light of the recent results from the OPERA Collaboration, indicating that neutrinos can travel superluminally, I review a simple extra-dimensional strategy for accommodating such behavior; and I also explain why it is hard in this strategy to avoid violating the null energy condition somewhere in the extra dimensions.
Prognostic Factors in Patients with Methanol Poisoning

AbstractObjective: To identify prognostic factors in methanol poisoning and determine the effect of medical interventions on clinical outcome. Methods: Retrospective review of all patients treated for methanol poisoning from 1982 through 1992 at The Toronto Hospital. Presenting history, physical examination, results of laboratory tests, medical interventions, and final outcomes after hemodialysis were abstracted. Results: Of 50 patients treated for methanol poisoning, 18 (36%) died, 32 (64%) survived. Seven of the 32 survivors sustained visual sequelae (22%), the remaining 25 (78%) recovered completely. Patients presenting with coma or seizure had 84% (16/19) mortality compared to 6% (2/31) in those without (p < 0.001). Initial arterial pH < 7 was also associated with significantly higher mortality (17/19, 89% vs 1/31, 3%, p < 0.001). There were no differences in time from presentation to dialysis between survivors and fatalities (8.4 ± 3.6 vs 7.6 ± 3.5 hours, p = 0.47). The deceased patients had higher m...
Review of red yeast rice content and current Food and Drug Administration oversight

Background Red yeast rice (RYR) is a commonly used dietary supplement for the management of dyslipidemia. In 2007, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a consumer warning to avoid RYR products because they may contain unauthorized drug (lovastatin) and also implemented Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMP) requiring that proper controls be in place by dietary supplement companies to ensure products are manufactured and processed in a consistent manner and produce high-quality products that are not adulterated with impurities or contaminants and are accurately labeled. Objective To assess the FDA oversight of companies manufacturing RYR products and review the labeled content of available RYR products. Methods The FDA was audited through the Freedom of Information Act, we requested answers to a series of questions concerning their oversight of companies manufacturing RYR products. The labeled content of each RYR product listed in the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database (NMCD) was tabulated and summarized. Statin-related product warnings and if product certification and verification by an independent laboratory had been performed were documented. Results The FDA had no information on the number of RYR manufacturers and their compliance with CGMP regulations. A total of 101 products containing RYR were reviewed. No product could be confirmed as passing any independent laboratory verification testing. Nearly one-half (42.6%) of the RYR product labels contained statin-related warnings (ie, potential for muscle pain or weakness, etc). Conclusion Currently, the FDA is not regulating manufacturers of RYR products and as a result, many of these products may contain monacolin K and toxins such as citrinin.
A deficiency screen of the major autosomes identifies a gene (matrimony) that is haplo-insufficient for achiasmate segregation in Drosophila oocytes.

In Drosophila oocytes, euchromatic homolog-homolog associations are released at the end of pachytene, while heterochromatic pairings persist until metaphase I. A screen of 123 autosomal deficiencies for dominant effects on achiasmate chromosome segregation has identified a single gene that is haploinsufficient for homologous achiasmate segregation and whose product may be required for the maintenance of such heterochromatic pairings. Of the deficiencies tested, only one exhibited a strong dominant effect on achiasmate segregation, inducing both X and fourth chromosome nondisjunction in FM7/X females. Five overlapping deficiencies showed a similar dominant effect on achiasmate chromosome disjunction and mapped the haplo-insufficient meiotic gene to a small interval within 66C7-12. A P -element insertion mutation in this interval exhibits a similar dominant effect on achiasmate segregation, inducing both high levels of X and fourth chromosome nondisjunction in FM7/X females and high levels of fourth chromosome nondisjunction in X/X females. The insertion site for this P element lies immediately up-stream of CG18543 , and germline expression of a UAS- CG18543 cDNA construct driven by nanos -GAL4 fully rescues the dominant meiotic defect. We conclude that CG18543 is the haplo-insufficient gene and have renamed this gene matrimony ( mtrm ). Cytological studies of prometaphase and metaphase I in mtrm hemizygotes demonstrate that achiasmate chromosomes are not properly positioned with respect to their homolog on the meiotic spindle. One possible, albeit speculative, interpretation of these data is that the presence of only a single copy of mtrm disrupts the function of whatever “glue” holds heterochromatically paired homologs together from the end of pachytene until metaphase I.
BLINDSFTF stable fast transversal filters algorithm applied to blind equalization

SFTF (stable fast transversal filters), an exact least squares adaptation algorithm with complexity of order 8 times the number of filter coefficients, has been applied to the solution of blind equalization cost functions with dramatic improvements in convergence speed compared to stochastic gradient (lms style) adaptation. This method requires only four times more computation than stochastic gradient methods and has the advantage of being eigenvalue spread independent. The SFTF exact least squares adaptation removes the eigenvalue spread of the channel problem and leaves us now with the speed of convergence depending only on the type of signal used and the initial ISI caused by the channel. Gray's optimum cost function for the generalized Gaussian pdf is discussed and used in the simulations. In summary, an optimal blind cost function is combined with an optimal filter adaptation method. The topic of entropy is discussed and it's relation to kurtosis and speed of convergence properties. >
Dimethyl disulfide (DMDS) and dimethyl sulfide (DMS) emissions from biomass burning in Australia

[1] We identify dimethyl disulfide (DMDS) as the major reduced sulfur-containing gas emitted from bushfires in Australia's Northern Territory. Like dimethyl sulfide (DMS), DMDS is oxidized in the atmosphere to sulfur dioxide (SO2) and methane sulfonic acid (MSA), which are intermediates in the formation of sulfuric acid (H2SO4). The mixing ratios of DMDS and DMS were the highest we have ever detected, with maximum values of 113 and 35 ppbv, respectively, whereas background values were below the detection limit (10 pptv). Molar emission ratios relative to carbon monoxide (CO) were [1.6 ± 0.1] × 10−5 and [6.2 ± 0.3] × 10−6, for DMDS and DMS respectively, while molar emission ratios relative to carbon dioxide (CO2) were [4.7 ± 0.4] × 10−6 and [1.4 ± 0.4] × 10−7, respectively. Assuming these observations are representative of biomass burning, we estimate that biomass burning could yield up to 175 Gg/yr of DMDS (119 Gg S/yr) and 13 Gg/yr of DMS.
Nuclear magnetic resonance studies of cationic and energetic alterations with oxidant stress in the perfused heart: Modulation with pyruvate and lactate

The postischemic generation of oxygen-derived free radicals may contribute to myocardial reperfusion injury by affecting sarcolemmal ion transport. Recent evidence indicates that exposure to reactive oxygen intermediates induces rapid increases in myocardial cytosolic free Ca2+ (Ca2+i). The mechanism is undetermined but may involve disturbances in Na+ homeostasis. We tested this hypothesis by interleaving 23Na and 31P nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) measurements of Na+i and high-energy phosphates in glucose-perfused rat hearts exposed to hydroxyl radicals generated from H2O2 and Fe3+. In separate experiments, K+i and Ca2+i were measured with 39K and 19F NMR, respectively. The hearts rapidly exhibited contracture. Threefold Na+i increases and substantial K+i depletion were observed. Glycolytic inhibition was indicated by rapid sugar phosphate accumulation and cellular energy depletion. Notably, however, severe functional and energetic deterioration and substantial elevation of Ca2+i occurred before substantial Na+i accumulation or K+i depletion was observed. Further experiments investigated the ability of pyruvate to scavenge H2O2 and to protect the myocardium from oxidant stress. Pyruvate (1 or 2.5 mmol/L) dramatically attenuated functional and energetic alterations and alterations in Na+i and K+i, whereas acetate (2.5 mmol/L) offered no protection. Unlike pyruvate, lactate (5 mmol/L) has little or no capacity to scavenge H2O2 but has similar protective effects. In conclusion, pyruvate effectively protects against H2O2/Fe3+, largely by direct H2O2 scavenging. Protection with lactate may involve intracellular pyruvate augmentation. Without exogenous pyruvate or lactate, myocardial Na+ homeostasis can be substantially altered by oxidant stress, possibly via cellular energy depletion. Excess Na+i accumulation may, in turn, hasten metabolic and functional deterioration, but a causal link with the initial alterations in function or Ca2+i was not supported.
Hormones and breast and endometrial cancers: preventive strategies and future research.

A number of hormonal approaches for prevention of endometrial and breast cancers have been proposed. Because of the hormonal responsiveness of both tumors, much attention has focused on effects of ...
Paired mutations abolish and restore the balanced annealing and melting activities of ORF1p that are required for LINE-1 retrotransposition

Retrotransposition amplifies LINE-1 (L1) to high copy number in mammalian genomes. The L1 protein encoded by ORF1 (ORF1p) is required for retrotransposition. This dependence on ORF1p was investigated by mutating three highly conserved residues, R238, R284 and Y318 to alanine, thereby inactivating retrotransposition. R284A and Y318A were rescued by further substituting the alanine with the appropriate conservative amino acid, e.g. lysine or phenylalanine, respectively, whereas R238K remained inactive. Quantification of the steady-state levels of L1 RNA and ORF1p failed to discriminate active from inactive variants, indicating loss of L1 retrotransposition resulted from loss of function rather than reduced expression. The two biochemical properties known for ORF1p are high-affinity RNA binding and nucleic acid chaperone activity. Only R238A/K exhibited significantly reduced RNA affinities. The nucleic acid chaperone activities of the remaining paired mutants were assessed by single-molecule DNA stretching and found to mirror retrotransposition activity. To further examine ORF1p chaperone function, their energetic barriers to DNA annealing and melting were derived from kinetic work. When plotted against each other, the ratio of these two activities distinguished functional from non-functional ORF1p variants. These findings enhance our understanding of the requirements for ORF1p in LINE-1 retrotransposition and, more generally, nucleic acid chaperone function.
Clinicopathological, ultrasonographic, and histopathological findings of superficial necrolytic dermatitis with hepatopathy in a cat.

This report describes the antemortem diagnosis and antemortem and postmortem findings of superficial necrolytic dermatitis with hepatopathy (i.e., hepatocutaneous syndrome) in a cat. A 5-year-old Maine coon was evaluated because of a history of pruritic alopecia and liver enzyme elevations. Abdominal ultrasonography revealed a reticular pattern to the hepatic parenchyma. Histopathological findings of the liver were nodular regeneration with bands of vacuolated hepatocytes and bile duct hyperplasia, characteristic of the hepatopathy frequently associated with superficial necrolytic dermatitis. Skin histopathology revealed multifocal parakeratosis, midepidermal spongiosis, and basal cell hyperplasia consistent with superficial necrolytic dermatitis.
A demonstration of the perception system in SimSensei, a virtual human application for healthcare interviews

We present the SimSensei system, a fully automatic virtual agent that conducts interviews to assess indicators of psychological distress. With this demo, we focus our attention on the perception part of the system, a multimodal framework which captures and analyzes user state behavior for both behavioral understanding and interactional purposes. We will demonstrate real-time user state sensing as a part of the SimSensei architecture and discuss how this technology enabled automatic analysis of behaviors related to psychological distress.
Pre-evaluation of Occupational Hazards in the Construction Project of Pharmaceutical Workshop in a Pharmaceutical Factory

To pre-evaluate the occupational hazards in the construction project of pharmaceutical workshop in a pharmaceutical factory.The protective equipments for occupational hazards were analyzed and evaluated by the combination of checklist and analogy.The main occupational hazard factors in project were noise,dusts and toxicant.In the analogy detection,noise,dusts and toxicant were all qualified.The protective equipments for noise,dusts and toxicant were designed in this project.The project is feasible from the view of occupational health.
Pimps, Bottoms, and the Nexus of Caring and Cash in a Harlem Sex Market

Pimp and sex worker business arrangements often originate in private social spheres. In sex markets, the overlap between work, leisure, and even family spheres can foster a complicated nexus between intimacy and economy. Zelizer (2000) explores the sociology of purchases of intimacy using three approaches: “hostile worlds”, “nothing-but”, and “connected lives”. We expand on her typology and test pimps’ perspectives about the rules of intimacy with sex workers. In the hostile worlds paradigm, if intimacy is allowed in the economic realm, there is contamination and chaos ensues. In the nothing-but paradigm, these spheres blend quite normally in the course of market activity, but there are uneven power dynamics. Connected lives are where intimacy and economy coexist, but without chaos. Through on-going negotiations, some deeper interpersonal connections form. Pimps’ perspectives about the nexus between intimacy and economy map onto Zelizer’s threefold typology. In housing projects in Harlem, 85 pimps were interviewed in situ about their labor, including their approach to relationships with sex workers. The crux of this nexus lies in the relationship between a pimp and his “bottom”, (Pimps commonly use the slang terms ‘bottom’ or ‘bottom bitch’ to describe their main sex workers). We find that pimps articulate all three management approaches; however, their approaches are not static. For instance, their intimate feelings for bottoms can develop over time, or their romantic relationships can transform to friendship or to a distant business relationship. Their management decisions concerning the rules of intimacy appear to influence their economic returns. Based on comparisons of their median weekly earnings, the conventional adage that “intimacy corrupts economy” is not supported, and those pimps who are more intimate with workers generate higher earnings.
Critical perspectives on fashion textbooks: representations of race, gender, and body

ABSTRACTThe purpose of the study was to critically analyse the images in fashion design and apparel product development textbooks to determine if they reflect a lack of diversity in fashion magazine, the fashion industry, and other college textbook images. While using intersectionality theory and a feminist lens as our frameworks, we critically analysed these texts for representations of race, body size, and body position. We used visual content analysis to examine 3124 images of women in books published since 2000. Each woman in the text was coded in three categories including race, body size, and body position. The findings from our study highlight the need for more diversity within the discipline’s textbooks. Future studies should examine representations of men and textbooks from other areas in the field such as textile science or dress history.
An Efficient, Rapid, and Recyclable System for CRISPR-Mediated Genome Editing in Candida albicans.

Candida albicans is the most common fungal pathogen of humans. Historically, molecular genetic analysis of this important pathogen has been hampered by the lack of stable plasmids or meiotic cell division, limited selectable markers, and inefficient methods for generating gene knockouts. The recent development of clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat(s) (CRISPR)-based tools for use with C. albicans has opened the door to more efficient genome editing; however, previously reported systems have specific limitations. We report the development of an optimized CRISPR-based genome editing system for use with C. albicans. Our system is highly efficient, does not require molecular cloning, does not leave permanent markers in the genome, and supports rapid, precise genome editing in C. albicans. We also demonstrate the utility of our system for generating two independent homozygous gene knockouts in a single transformation and present a method for generating homozygous wild-type gene addbacks at the native locus. Furthermore, each step of our protocol is compatible with high-throughput strain engineering approaches, thus opening the door to the generation of a complete C. albicans gene knockout library. IMPORTANCECandida albicans is the major fungal pathogen of humans and is the subject of intense biomedical and discovery research. Until recently, the pace of research in this field has been hampered by the lack of efficient methods for genome editing. We report the development of a highly efficient and flexible genome editing system for use with C. albicans. This system improves upon previously published C. albicans CRISPR systems and enables rapid, precise genome editing without the use of permanent markers. This new tool kit promises to expedite the pace of research on this important fungal pathogen.
Cross talk between androgen and Wnt signaling potentially contributes to age-related skeletal muscle atrophy in rats.

Results from this study demonstrate androgen and Wnt5 protein expression decreases with aging, and this may be a mechanism involved with age-related muscle loss.
Combined genetic polymorphisms and environmental factors in the etiology of a chronic TMJD murine model

Background TNFR1 and TNFR2 are receptors for the pro-inflammatory chemokine TNFa. Inflammation of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and hypersensitivity were induced in mice lacking both TNFa receptors (TNFR1/R2 -/-). After recovery from this initial priming TMJ insult lasting less than a week, a gastrointestinal (GI) chemical irritation is administered 3 weeks later. This “double-hit” initiates a recrudescence of inflammation and hypersensitivity persisting at least 18 weeks. Materials and methods TNFR1/2 -/- and wildtype (WT) mice were given a unilateral TMJ injection of complete Freud’s adjuvant (CFA, 510 mL) to induce hypersensitivity of the overlying facial area. Mechanical hypersensitivity threshold was determined with graded nylon von Frey monofilaments. Heat hypersensitivity was determined by latency to response with the hotplate test (50°C). Three weeks later, mustard oil (0.5% in peanut oil; 50 μl) was infused into the colon. The prolonged inflammation and hypersensitivity that redeveloped only in the TNFR1/2-/- mice allowed testing of several different compounds for their efficacy to reduce chronic inflammation-induced mechanical and heat hypersensitivity. Proteomic analysis of serum was performed to study cytokine level differences in weeks 2 and 10. Results While mechanical thresholds and heat response latencies in WT mice returned to baseline after both insults, the TNFR1/R2 -/- mice developed chronic mechanical and heat hypersensitivity which persisted at least 18 weeks. NMDA receptor antagonist MK801, P2X7 inhibitor A438079, reactive oxygen species scavenger phenyl-N-tbutyl nitrone (PBN), and human TNFa neutralizing antibody Etanercept were tested to determine efficacy for reduction of the hypersensitivity. Both mechanical and heat hypersensitivity were attenuated by the test drugs with varying efficacies. A TRPV1 antagonist, capsazepine, did not alter established heat hypersensitivity. At weeks 2 and 18, the TNFR1/R2 -/- and WT mice had very different cytokine profiles. At 2 weeks when the initial inflammation-induced hypersensitivity had resolved, serum levels of TNFa, RANTES, and MIG were twice as high in TNFR1/ R2 -/- while CXCL11 was decreased compared to WT mice. After 18 weeks when hypersensitivity is chronic, GCSF, IFNg and TNFa serum levels in TNFR1/R2 -/- animals were significantly increased relative to the controls IL16 and CXCL9 were decreased compared to WT samples. Conclusions Utilizing a “double hit” inflammatory model we demonstrated that TMJ inflammation can be “re-ignited” by a minor GI insult to become a chronic condition in mice with TNF receptor deficits. High levels of TNFa were accompanied by different inflammatory mediators after the acute inflammation compared to those present chronically with the TMJD recrudescence.
Les agents antitubulines

Resume Les microtubules sont des elements fortement dynamiques du cytosquelette qui constituent une cible therapeutique importante chez les patients atteints de cancers. Les agents antitubulines font partie de la pharmacopee du cancer depuis plusieurs decennies et jusqu’a l’arrivee des therapeutiques ciblees constituaient la seule alternative therapeutique aux medicaments ciblant l’ADN. Il existe actuellement un nombre important de vinca-alcaloides, de taxanes mais egalement de nouveaux agents plus recemment approuves, tels que l’ixabepilone ou l’eribuline. Les maytansinoides ont ete utilises pour la production d’immunoconjugues, des anticorps monoclonaux lies de facon covalente a des agents antimitotiques. Le screening d’especes botaniques et marines continue d’identifier de nouveaux agents antitubulines avec des proprietes prometteuses. Une specificite accrue pour les cellules cancereuses, une reduction des proprietes neurotoxiques et une moindre sensibilite aux mecanismes de chimioresistance constituent des objectifs importants dans la recherche de nouveaux agents antitubulines.
Nutrition in Neurocognition and Mental Health

While it is widely known and accepted that proper nutrition is vital to physical health throughout the lifecycle [1, 2], the relationship between nutrition and neurocognition and mental health has been less acknowledged [3]. This chapter will review and summarize the current literature on the impact of nutrition on neurocognition and mental health. Folate, vitamin B12, vitamin D, choline, iodine, iron, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, and overall diet quality show the most evidence suggesting potential influences, and will therefore be targeted here. Their effects on neurocognition and mental health throughout the lifespan (prenatal development, childhood, adolescence, and adulthood) will be reviewed. Detailed explanations of the involved biological processes and metabolism of nutrients are beyond the scope of this chapter and interested readers can see [4, 5, 6, 7, 8] for further reading. Additional aspects of nutrition including the role of probiotics, hydration, and nutraceuticals (other than l-methyl-folate) are also outside the scope of this chapter [see [9, 10, 11]] for further reading. Implications of the existing evidence, recommendations for advancing future research, and public health policy matters will also be discussed. Overall, it is hoped that this chapter will enhance understanding and consideration of the potential role of nutritional factors in psychological and neuropsychological evaluations.
Analytical Instrumentation in the QC of Pet Radiopharmaceuticals

The PET Center at North Carolina Baptist Hospital-Bowman Gray School of Medicine has been in operation since January of 1992. It was designed and equipped to conveniently and efficiently accommodate both the clinical and developmental research requirements of a PET Center. The facility is comprised of approximately 12, 000 sq. ft. of space which includes the cyclotron, scanning/patient area, radiochemistry/radiopharmacy, chemistry, blood lab, scan reading room and office area. The laboratory/research area includes 3255 sq. ft. of the available space, and is used for production, quality control, blood analysis and research.
Fluid Dynamic Analysis of Hand-Pump Infuser and UROMAT Endoscopic Automatic System for Irrigation Through a Flexible Ureteroscope.

Abstract Introduction: To evaluate the flow characteristics produced by a manual and automated-pump irrigation system connected to a flexible ureteroscope. Materials and Methods: An in vitro analys...
The Impact of Subsidies in Asymmetric Procurement Auctions: A Comparison of Theoretical and Experimental Results

Abstract The existence of discriminatory auctions where one class of bidders is offered preferential treatment over another class is controversial. Consider the Affirmative Action policies of the FCC and the Buy-American Act policies of the US Government. The political reasons for such policies are obvious. However, research has shown that there is an economic benefit for such policies in the sense that procurement costs to a buyer may actually decrease as incentives are offered to weaker sellers. In this paper, we test the predictions of Rothkopf et al. (2003) where cost weaker sellers are offered a subsidy in the form of additional payment. For various levels of cost disadvantage, Rothkopf et al (2003), present the optimal subsidy level, bidders’ strategies, bidder profitability, and buyer procurement costs. We test these predictions in a series of controlled experiments. This paper is the first to experimentally test these predictions. Due to the wide use of subsidies not only to support social aims but also their potential to reduce the buyer’s costs, our findings have both financial and societal implications.
MOrPH-PhD: An Integrated Phage Display Platform for the Discovery of Functional Genetically Encoded Peptide Macrocycles

Macrocyclic peptides represent attractive scaffolds for targeting protein–protein interactions, making methods for the diversification and functional selection of these molecules highly valuable for molecular discovery purposes. Here, we report the development of a novel strategy for the generation and high-throughput screening of combinatorial libraries of macrocyclic peptides constrained by a nonreducible thioether bridge. In this system, spontaneous, posttranslational peptide cyclization by means of a cysteine-reactive noncanonical amino acid was integrated with M13 bacteriophage display, enabling the creation of genetically encoded macrocyclic peptide libraries displayed on phage particles. This platform, named MOrPH-PhD, was successfully applied to produce and screen 105- to 108-member libraries of peptide macrocycles against three different protein targets, resulting in the discovery of a high-affinity binder for streptavidin (KD: 20 nM) and potent inhibitors of the therapeutically relevant proteins...
Safety and outcome of stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) with rectal hydrogel spacer for prostate cancer.

76Background: Ultra-hypofractionated radiotherapy delivered using stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) is a cost-effective treatment for localized prostate cancer. Optimal dosing remains unclear, ...