cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sexual goals and perceptions of goal congruence in individuals' PrEP adoption decisions: A mixed-methods study of gay and bisexual men who are in primary relationships.

Background Although health goals are recognized as a central feature of health behavior theories, the relational context through which goals are conceptualized is often overlooked. Interdependence theory represents a valuable framework for understanding goals in the adoption of health behaviors, such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), among gay and bisexual men in primary relationships. Purpose We examined the content and focus of men's sexual health goals, as well as whether goal content, goal focus, or perceptions of goal congruence with a primary partner were related to PrEP adoption among gay and bisexual men in primary relationships. Methods Mixed-methods data were collected from a PrEP demonstration project from 145 HIV-negative gay and bisexual men in primary relationships. Participants reported their sexual health goals and completed measures of perceptions of goal congruence, relationship factors, and sociodemographic factors. Results Three main goal content categories were identified: prevention, satisfaction, and intimacy. In expressing these goals, participants framed them with either a self-focus or a relationship-focus. Men in serodiscordant relationships reported more intimacy goals and greater perceptions of goal congruence. There were no differences in goal content or focus by sexual agreement. In the multivariable logistic regression model, perceived goal congruence was associated with PrEP adoption, over and above covariates. Conclusions Intimate relationships play a significant role in the formation of health-related goals. Goal content, focus, and perceived congruence with partners may represent important targets for HIV prevention interventions for gay and bisexual men in primary relationships, especially in the context of PrEP.
Hydrothermal synthesis and properties of MIIMIIIF5(H2O)7 (MII = Co2+ and Ni2+, MIII = Mn3+, Ga3+, and In3+)

Abstract A family of new compounds with a general formula MIIMIIIF5(H2O)7 (MII = Co2+ and Ni2+, MIII = Mn3+, Ga3+, and In3+), along with a related compound [Ni(H2O)6][InF4(H2O)2]2, was obtained via hydrothermal crystal growth and characterized using single crystal X-ray diffraction. All compounds adopt related structural motifs and differ in slight symmetry distortions rather than overall change in packing. No direct relationships between the cation size and symmetry of the crystals were found, moreover, [Co(H2O)6]2[MnF4(H2O)2][MnF6] that exhibits Jahn-Teller distortions of the Mn octahedra adopts the same structure as [Ni(H2O)6]2[InF4(H2O)2][InF6], which is lacking such distortions. Magnetic and spectroscopic properties of the former compound are also reported.
Educational modules and research surveys on critical cybersecurity topics

Cybersecurity comprised all the technologies and practices that protect data as well as computer and network systems. In this article, we develop four course modules on critical cybersecurity topic...
Identification of the Functional Binding Site for the Convulsant Tetramethylenedisulfotetramine in the Pore of the α2β3γ2 GABAA Receptor.

Tetramethylenedisulfotetramine (TETS) is a so-called "caged" convulsant that is responsible for thousands of accidental and malicious poisonings. Similar to the widely used GABA receptor type A (GABAA) antagonist picrotoxinin, TETS has been proposed to bind to the noncompetitive antagonist (NCA) site in the pore of the receptor channel. However, the TETS binding site has never been experimentally mapped, and we here set out to gain atomistic level insights into how TETS inhibits the human α 2 β 3 γ 2 GABAA receptor. Using the Rosetta molecular modeling suite, we generated three homology models of the α 2 β 3 γ 2 receptor in the open, desensitized, and closed/resting state. Three different ligand-docking algorithms (RosettaLigand, Glide, and Swissdock) identified two possible TETS binding sites in the channel pore. Using a combination of site-directed mutagenesis, electrophysiology, and modeling to probe both sites, we demonstrate that TETS binds at the T6' ring in the closed/resting-state model, in which it shows perfect space complementarity and forms hydrogen bonds or makes hydrophobic interactions with all five pore-lining threonine residues of the pentameric receptor. Mutating T6' in either the α 2 or β 3 subunit reduces the IC50 of TETS by ∼700-fold in whole-cell patch-clamp experiments. TETS is thus interacting at the NCA site in the pore of the GABAA receptor at a location that is overlapping but not identical to the picrotoxinin binding site. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Our study identifies the binding site of the highly toxic convulsant tetramethylenedisulfotetramine (TETS), which is classified as a threat agent by the World Health Organization. Using a combination of homology protein modeling, ligand docking, site-directed mutagenesis, and electrophysiology, we show that TETS is binding in the pore of the α2β3γ2 GABA receptor type A receptor at the so-called T6' ring, wherein five threonine residues line the permeation pathway of the pentameric receptor channel.
The Role of Nutritional Access in Malnourished Elderly Undergoing Major Surgery for Acute Abdomen: A Propensity Score-Matched Analysis.

BACKGROUND About 50% of the elderly undergoing emergency abdominal surgery are malnourished. The role of timely surgical nutritional access in this group of patients is unknown. METHODS We analyzed the National Inpatient Sample database from 2009 through the first three-quarters of 2015 of patients aged ≥65 years who were malnourished and underwent major abdominal surgery for the acute abdomen within the first 2 days of hospital admission. RESULTS Of 3 246 721 patients analyzed, 4311 patients met inclusion criteria. Of these, only 507 (11.8%) patients had surgical nutritional access (gastrostomy or jejunostomy) (group I), while 3804 patients (88.2%) did not (group II). In the propensity score-matched population, there were 482 patients in each group. The patients in group I had lower odds of mortality and postoperative gastrointestinal complications (paralytic ileus, anastomotic dehiscence, and intestinal fistulae) (P-value <.01, respectively). DISCUSSION Elderly who receive surgical nutritional access have lower rates of gastrointestinal complications and mortality.
Intimate partner psychological violence among GLBTQ college students: The role of harsh parenting, interparental conflict, and microaggressions

AbstractThis study provides critical contributions to the study of gay, lesbian bisexual, transgender, queer (GLBTQ) college students by examining the role of family and microaggressions on psychol...
Testing the 'China Shock': Was Normalizing Trade with China a Mistake?

There is an emerging consensus among American politicians and many citizens that trade and globalization have undermined America’s working class, resulting in a rise in U.S. populism. This view frequently targets the 2000 U.S. law that granted China “permanent normal trade relations” (PNTR) and China’s 2001 entry into the World Trade Organization (WTO) as key drivers of the country’s rise and the now‐​famous “China Shock”— the period between 1999 and 2011 during which a size-able increase in Chinese imports supposedly produced the loss of approximately 2.4 million U.S. jobs. However, the view that PNTR was an erroneous policy choice that disproportionately benefited political elites and corporations, directly drove the China Shock, and, combined with other allegedly “laissez‐​faire” policies, permanently scarred America’s working class suffers from several flaws that collectively prove fatal for the anti‐​PNTR thesis. As we approach the 20th anniversary of PNTR, criticism of the law and of the WTO more broadly will surely intensify, but a proper accounting of the relevant economics and history reveals most critics to be misguided. Labor market and cultural disruptions in the United States are real and important, as is China’s current and unfortunate turn toward illiberal-ism and imperialism. But it is a mistake to pretend that there was a better trade policy choice in 2000 than PNTR and engagement with China more broadly. It assumes too much, ignores too much, and demands too much. Worse, it could lead to truly bad governance: increasing U.S. protectionism; forgiving the real and important failures of our policymakers, CEOs, and unions over the past two decades; and preventing a political consensus for real policy solutions. Indeed, these are happening now.
Stay Healthy, Safe, and Well: Investigating Effective Communication Design in COVID-19 Emails and Messaging

This case study investigates design strategies found within messages sent from post-secondary leaders during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic. It seeks to answer how post-secondary leaders engage digital design strategies in emails to build community, promote public health recommendations, and foster empathy. Guided by a critical-contextual methodology and analysis of thematic codes, a preliminary content analysis indicates some leaders leverage critical design and language techniques to communicate complicated or difficult medical and crisis information while also balancing a concern for humanity.
CRC Handbook of Sample Size Guidelines for Clinical Trials

HOW TO USE THE SAMPLE SIZE TABLES. IDENTIFICATION OF PARAMETERS. REFERENCES. DESIGN AND ANALYSIS OF RANDOMIZED CLINICAL TRIALS. FORMULATION OF THE THERAPEUTIC QUESTION. One Sided vs. Two-Sided Question. DESIGN OF THE CLINICAL TRIAL. Statistical Considerations. CONDUCT OF THE TRIAL. ANALYSIS AND REPORTING OF THE TRIAL. Crucial Elements. Binomial Comparison. Kaplan-Meier Comparison (Large Sample). Logrank Test. REFERENCES. DERIVATION OF THE STATISTICAL RESULTS. DERIVATION OF THE LARGE SAMPLE DISTRIBUTION OF THE LOGRANK STATISTIC. DERIVATION OF THE LARGE SAMPLE DISTRIBUTION OF THE KAPLAN-MEIER STATISTIC. Difference Between Kaplan-Meier Curves. EXPONENTIAL SURVIVAL. APPLICATION OF THE LOGRANK TEST WHEN SURVIVAL IS EXPONENTIAL. EXPONENTIAL SURVIVAL WITH A POISSON ACCRUAL PROCESS. EXTENSION TO THE TWO-SAMPLE PROBLEM. EXPONENTIAL SURVIVAL WITH "UP-FRONT" ACCRUAL. PROPORTIONAL HAZARD MODELS AND THE EXPONENTIAL DISTRIBUTION. CONSIDERATION IN PLANNING A TRIAL UNDER PROPORTIONAL HAZARDS: PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER. LOSSES TO FOLLOW-UP AND SAMPLE SIZE ADJUSTMENT. INTERPRETATION OF THE TABLES. MULTI-TREATMENT TRIALS. Type A. Type B. Type C. Type D. STRATIFIED LOGRANK TEST. Advice on Stratification. INTUITIVE JUSTIFICATION WHY THE LOGRANK TEST AND KAPLAN-MEIER ESTIMATION FOR ACTUAL ACCRUAL PROCESS BEHAVE IN THE LIMIT IN THE SAME WAY AS THE FIXED BINOMIAL ASSUMPTION. ALTERNATE STANDARD ERROR FOR THE KAPLAN-MEIER ESTIMATOR. CONNECTION BETWEEN KAPLAN-MEIER WITH BINOMIAL. REFERENCES. FIGURES. APPENDIX I: A Review of Mathematical Statistics. APPENDIX II: Tables. INDEX.
Gas Flows in the Transition and Free Molecular Flow Regimes

We investigate pressure driven flow in the transition and free-molecular flow regimes with the objective of developing unified flow models for channels and ducts. These models are based on a velocity scaling law, which is valid for a wide range of Knudsen number. Simple slip-based descriptions of flowrate in channels and ducts are corrected for effects in the transition and free-molecular flow regimes with the introduction of a rarefaction coefficient. The resulting models can predict the velocity distribution, mass flowrate, pressure and shear stress distribution in rectangular ducts in the entire Knudsen flow regime.
Identification of a Human HLA-E-Restricted CD8+ T Cell Subset in Volunteers Immunized with Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhi Strain Ty21a Typhoid Vaccine

Our previous studies in volunteers immunized with Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi ( S. Typhi) have suggested an important role for CD8 + T cells in host defense. In this study we describe a novel subset of nonclassical human HLA-E-restricted S. Typhi-specific CD8 + T cells derived from PBMC of Ty21a typhoid vaccinees. CD3 + CD8 + CD4 − CD56 − T cells effectively killed S. Typhi-infected targets regardless of whether they share classical HLA class I molecules with them, by a FAS-independent, granule-dependent mechanism, as evidenced by induction of granzyme B release and the blocking effects of concanamycin and strontium ions. The expression of HLA-E Ags, but not CD1-a, -b, or -c, on the membrane of S . Typhi-infected targets rendered them susceptible to lysis. Moreover, anti-HLA-E Abs partially blocked these responses. We also demonstrated that presentation of S. Typhi Ags via HLA-E could stimulate IFN-γ production. Increases in the net frequency of IFN-γ spot-forming cells were observed in the presence of targets coated with peptides that contain S. Typhi GroEL HLA-E binding motifs. These results demonstrate that HLA-E binds nonamer peptides derived from bacterial proteins and trigger CD8 + -mediated lysis and IFN-γ production when exposed to infected targets, raising the possibility that this novel effector mechanism might contribute to host defense against intracellular bacterial infections.
Non-accidental Trauma

Child abuse is a major source of injury for children. If not detected, non-accidental trauma is likely to recur and the next event could be fatal. It is the responsibility of any medical provider who detects signs of child abuse to report it and save a life.
À Table!: The Gourmet Culture of France by BROWN, BECKY

A review is presented for the book "A Table!: The Gourmet Culture of France," by Becky Brown.
Ajtai–Szemerédi Theorems over quasirandom groups

Two versions of the Ajtai–Szemeredi Theorem are considered in the Cartesian square of a finite non-abelian group G. In case G is sufficiently quasirandom, we obtain strong forms of both versions: if \(E \subseteq G \times G\) is fairly dense, then E contains a large number of the desired patterns for most individual choices of ‘common difference’. For one of the versions, we also show that this set of good common differences is syndetic.
Renewable Energy and Land Use Regulation (Part 1)

Part I of a two-part set of materials on renewable energy and land use regulation, this piece focuses on local climate change action plans (highlighting Denver, Los Angeles, Montgomery County, Cleveland and Santa Fe), discusses lcoal governments and LEED, Energy Star issues including preemption, and the incorporation of green development concepts into local comprehensive land use plans and local zoning and land use regulations.
The Psychology of Entrapment

When people think of “entrapment” generally what comes to mind is an undercover police officer posing as a prostitute or a drug dealer in order to catch criminals. The fact of the matter is that claims of entrapment take on many forms, the above being some of them. The police sting operations that lead to the defense of entrapment can also be complicated and intricate schemes involving obscene amounts of money, or a bribe with the undertone of a threat. While the former types of operations can be beneficial in helping to stop so-called “victimless” crimes (“Entrapment: From Sorrells,”1993), the latter may be an example of law enforcement officials overstepping their boundaries.
A classification of hyperpolar and cohomogeneity one actions

An isometric action of a compact Lie group on a Riemannian manifold is called hyperpolar if there exists a closed, connected submanifold that is flat in the induced metric and meets all orbits orthogonally. In this article, a classification of hyperpolar actions on the irreducible Riemannian symmetric spaces of compact type is given. Since on these symmetric spaces actions of cohomogeneity one are hyperpolar, i.e. normal geodesics are closed, we obtain a classification of the homogeneous hypersurfaces in these spaces by computing the cohomogeneity for all hyperpolar actions. This result implies a classification of the cohomogeneity one actions on compact strongly isotropy irreducible homogeneous spaces.
Impact of selective antimicrobial agents on staphylococcal adherence to biomedical devices.

Abstract Background Infection of intravascular or implanted biomedical devices often involves biofilm-forming staphylococci that are recalcitrant to antimicrobial therapy. The present study investigated the activity of 6 antimicrobial agents against biofilm-forming and non–biofilm-forming strains of staphylococci adherent to the surface of selected biomedical devices. Methods Five clinical staphylococcal strains were selected for study in (1) antibiotic-lock model (ALM) and (b) vascular graft model (Dacron and expanded polytetrafluoroethylene [ePFTE]) devices. Test strains were inoculated for 30 minutes to stabilize microbial adherence and then exposed to antibiotic; the impact on bacterial adherence was assessed at 1, 2, 4, 7, and 10 days. Results Regarding ALM, daptomycin and rifampin were effective at eradicating staphylococcal adherence by day 4 ( P P P P P P P Comments Daptomycin, rifampin, and linezolid demonstrated greater efficacy and speed in eradicating microbial adherence of staphylococcal isolates from selected devices compared with vancomycin, gentamicin, or ceftriaxone ( P
Hodgkin's disease--clinical trials and travails.

The greatest derangement of the mind is to believe in something because one wishes it to be so. — Rene J. Dubos, 1876 The two articles on Hodgkin's disease in this issue of the Journal — one by Ale...
Kinetic distinction between rapid-equilibrium random and abortive ordered enzymatic mechanisms using alternative substrates or kinetic isotope effects

Summary Alternative substrates, such as those isotopically-labeled, which differ in their rate constants of catalysis but not in their rate constants of binding, generate identical values of V/K a in ordered kinetic mechanisms of bireactant enzymes. This is shown to be true even for the rapid-equilibrium ordered mechanism in which an abortive complex between free enzyme and the second substrate is formed. In contrast, rapid-equilibrium random mechanisms have non-identical values for V/K a . Consequently, the effect of alternative substrates or isotope effects on V/K a provides a means to distinguish between these nearly identical kinetic mechanisms.
Evidence and explanations for the association among six Asian (Pacific-Basin) financial markets

We explore, explain and extend previous research on the relations between large and small stock returns in six Asian (Pacific-Basin) nations and the association among the same six Asian financial markets. Our purpose is to provide evidence of the cross-autocorrelation of stock returns in a more recent time period than analysed before by others. Evidence is brought to bear as to the theoretical explanations for stock market behaviour of Pacific-Basin nations including those with large financial markets, i.e. Japan and Hong Kong, and those with small financial markets, i.e. Thailand and Malaysia. No other study collects and analyses stock market behaviour in these nations for the recent time period. In addition, we study results from a sample of time periods and compare them. We indicate the validity of the conclusion made on studies of earlier time periods which conflict with various explanations of stock market behaviours. Relations between large and small size firms’ stock returns as well as the influenc...
Developmental changes in calpain activity, GluR1 receptors and in the effect of kainic acid treatment in rat brain

Abstract The cellular distribution of calpain activation and glutamate receptor 1 (GluR1) subunits of α -amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptors and their alterations following kainic acid-induced seizure were evaluated during postnatal development using antibodies specific for spectrin breakdown product and the C-terminus of GluR1 subunits. In the first postnatal week, most brain regions exhibited high levels of calpain activity that progressively decreased during the following weeks. The highest levels of spectrin breakdown product immunoreactivity were observed in the somata and proximal dendrites of hippocampal pyramidal cells, non-pyramidal neurons in stratum oriens, and cortical neurons. In general, during the first two postnatal weeks, kainic acid treatment induced a decrease in spectrin breakdown product immunoreactivity in neuronal cell bodies and an increase in dendritic fields. Obvious elevation in spectrin breakdown product immunoreactivity in selective non-pyramidal cells in stratum oriens started at postnatal day 14, and was further evidenced by postnatal day 21. Likewise, massive calpain activation in subpopulations of neurons in some thalamic nuclei, amygdala, and pyriform cortex was observed after the third postnatal week. GluR1 subunits were highly expressed throughout the forebrain in the first postnatal week, further increased during the second postnatal week, decreased thereafter, and reached adult levels after postnatal day 21. In cortex, intense GluR1 immunostaining was found in the somata and proximal processes of pyramidal and non-pyramidal neurons, with the non-pyramidal neurons in layers IV through VI exhibiting the densest immunolabelling. In the first two postnatal weeks, the somata of hippocampal pyramidal neurons exhibited intense GluR1 immunostaining that became more dendritic in the subsequent developmental period. While hilar cells exhibited a similar developmental pattern as CA regions, the molecular layer of dentate gyrus exhibited weak immunoreactivity from postnatal day 7 to postnatal day 14. The early increase in GluR1 immunoreactivity in hippocampal pyramidal layer following kainic acid treatment occurred throughout the developmental period, while the later decrease in CA regions, amygdala, and pyriform cortex was observed only in postnatal day 21 animals. The combined immunocytochemical studies of spectrin breakdown product localization and GluR1 expression indicate that calpain activation might play an important role in synaptic formation, developmental regulation of synaptic plasticity, and neuronal vulnerability to excitotoxicity during postnatal development. Moreover, calpain-mediated modulation of α -amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptors might underlie these processes.
Wave propagation in pyrolytic-graphite slow-wave circuits

The possibility of using an anisotropic resistive material to simulate sheath-type microwave slow-wave structures is investigated experimentally. The specific anisotropic material considered in the present study is pyrolytic graphite which has an anisotropic electrical conductivity. A sheath model of the Karp line is simulated by replacing wires and slots by a sheet of pyrolytic graphite. The mode of propagation in this waveguide structure is measured and compared with the theory. The Karp-line mode with a relatively high attenuation is found to be present in this structure.
Poliomyelitic Virus from Feces in Non-Paralytic Poliomyelitis. II. Infectivity by Various Routes.

SummaryThe SK. strain of poliomyelitic virus has been shown to be occasionally infectious by the intraperitoneal, intracutaneous, intratonsillar, and oral routes. The Mac. mordax species of monkey, as well as the Mac. cynomolgus, is susceptible to infection with poliomyelitic virus by the oral route.
Uncertainty characterization of data for probabilistic risk assessment

Abstract The maximum entropy approach to uncertainty characterization is of current interest in probabilistic risk assessment. For the loguniform or lognormal distributions, the quantitative definition of the distribution is obtained from the maximum entropy principle and knowledge of one parameter (e.g. mean value) of the distribution. The technique is illustrated by comparison with existing data bases.
Long-term survival of allograft murine islets coated via covalently stabilized polymers.

Clinical islet transplantation (CIT) has emerged as a promising treatment option for type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM); however, the anti-rejection drug regimen necessary to mitigate allograft islet rejection is undesirable. The use of polymeric coatings to immunocamouflage the transplant from host immune attack has great potential. We have recently developed alginate and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)-based polymers, functionalized with azide and phosphine, respectively, which form spontaneous and chemoselective crosslinks via the bioorthogonal Staudinger ligation scheme. Herein, we explored the utility of these polymers to form immunoprotective, ultrathin coatings on murine primary pancreatic islets. Resulting coatings were nontoxic, with unimpaired glucose stimulated insulin secretion. Transplantation of coated BALB/c (H-2d) islets into streptozotozin-induced diabetic C57BL/6 (H-2b) resulted in prompt achievement of normoglycemia, at a rate comparable to controls. A significant subset of animals receiving coated islets (57%) exhibited long-term (> 100 d) function, with robust islets observed upon explantation. Control islets rejected after 15 d (+/− 9 d). Results illustrate the capacity of chemoselectively functionalized polymers to form coatings on islets, imparting no detrimental effect to the underlying cells, with resulting coatings exhibiting significant protective effects in an allograft murine model.
Prolonged field potentials evoked by 1 Hz stimulation in the dentate gyrus of temporal lobe epileptic human brain slices.

Abstract An abnormal electrophysiological response in brain slices of the dentate gyrus from biopsy material from patients surgicially treated for intractable epilepsy (46/57), exhibited characteristics similar to the physiological hallmark of epilepsy, the paroxysmal discharge, a prolonged (30–600 ms) and often large amplitude field potential. The most striking feature of the prolonged response to a single perforant path stimulus was a predominantly biphasic field potential (23/46 cases). The biphasic response was characterized by a negative field potential of substantial duration exceeding 180 ms which followed an initial shorter duration positive field potential. Multiple population spikes occurred during both phases of the response. During a 1 Hz stimulus train applied to the perforant path, the magnitude and duration of the negative component of the field response was significantly increased. Approximately half of the cases (Group 1;30/57) exhibited potentiation of the biphasic response, while the remaining cases (Group 2;27/57) exhibited no negative field component during 1 Hz stimulation trains. This repetitive stimulation, in general, increased the area of the field response in a large majority of cases (44/57) regardless of the sign of the field potential. The number of population spikes following 1 Hz stimulation increased significantly for cases in both groups, although the increase was greater for those in Group 1 than in Group 2. Paired pulse depression (20 ms ISI) was reduced in cases that exhibited potentiated biphasic responses during 1 Hz stimulation (Group 1) in comparison to cases that exhibited no negative field potentials (Group 2). Paired pulse depression at a 200 ms ISI was not significantly different between the groups. During a single stimulus, bicuculline disinhibition (20 μM) resulted in either a prolonged positive or biphasic field potential. Intracellularly recorded responses to single perforant path stimuli also exhibited prolonged and large depolarizations that were comparable in time course to the duration of field potentials recorded in the same area whether generated in the absence or presence of bicuculline. The prolonged field potential after bicuculline was reduced by APV (20 μM). We suggest that the prolonged field response, whether biphasic or monophasic when generated by either 1 Hz stimulation or bicuculline disinhibition, may be due directly or indirectly to an increase in membrane depolarization mediated by activation of the NMDA receptor.
High-level expression and secretion of a lysine-containing analog of Escherichia coli heat-stable enterotoxin.

Abstract The mechanism of action of the heat-stable enterotoxin STa secreted from enterotoxigenic forms of Escherichia coli has remained elusive, in part due to a tedious, low-yield purification procedure. We report here a method for obtaining large amounts of a biologically active lysine-containing analog of STa. Initial attempts to express the toxin using an expression vector that did not encode a signal sequence resulted in no biologically active material being recovered either from lysed cells or as a secretory product. However, use of the secretion vector pJAL36, which contains the STII enterotoxin signal sequence, allowed large amounts of an STa derivative containing the additional sequence Ser-Thr-Lys at the amino terminus of the mature enterotoxin to be readily purified from culture supernatants. This enterotoxin analog, known as KSTa-1, was equal in biological and receptor binding activity to the native toxin STa. The lysine residue present in KSTa-1 promises to be useful as a reactive amino acid that is readily derivatized to allow coupling of the enterotoxin to supports for affinity chromatography and antigenic conjugates. Additionally, the insertion of the lysine residue carboxy terminal to the Ser-Thr sequence adds a reversible “handle” to the toxin sequence in that the Ser-Thr-Lys segment can be removed by treatment with trypsin, releasing the native form of STa.
Dilation probing as primary treatment for congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction.

Abstract Purpose: Recent studies have suggested that simple nasolacrimal duct (NLD) probing can be an effective primary surgery for congenital NLD obstruction regardless of age. The success of balloon dilation after failed NLD probing suggests that maximally enlarging the passage through the NLD system may enhance the success of simple NLD probing. This study used sequential probing with modified, taper-tip probes to evaluate whether maximally enlarging the nasolacrimal duct can effectively treat congenital NLD obstructions in all age groups. Methods: Under general anesthesia, each obstructed NLD system was sequentially probed with larger diameter NLD probes until firm resistance prevented the passage of any larger probe size. Successful treatment was defined as a negative dye-disappearance test 2 weeks after probing and the absence of tearing symptoms at last contact. Results: A retrospective chart review identified 40 patients ages 6 to 32 months (average, 17.7 months) who underwent the sequential probing procedure. Sequential NLD probing was successful in 66 (92%) of 72 eyes. Of the failures, both eyes in a 15-month-old patient with Down's syndrome had tight, anomalous NLD systems. In the remaining 4 eyes, 2 had resolution of symptoms but partially positive dye-disappearance tests, and 2 underwent successful repeat sequential NLD probing. Subdividing by age, 27 (100%) of 27 obstructed NLD systems were treated successfully in patients older than 18 months compared with 39 (87%) of 45 in younger patients. Conclusion: Sequential NLD probing to maximally enlarge the NLD system has a high rate of success in all children. Age does not appear to have an impact on success of probing. (J AAPOS 2002;6:364-7)
Geriatric Neutrophils: Implications for Older Adults

Objectives To review the intersection of immunosenescence and neutropenia, focusing on innate immunity, and implications for research and practice for neutropenic older adults with cancer. Data Sources Research studies, journal articles, and web sites. Conclusion Immunosenescence, age-related changes within the immune system renders older adults more vulnerable to infection. This vulnerability is magnified by cancer and its treatment. Unfortunately, there has been little consideration of immunosenescence as it relates to supportive care for this population. Implications for Nursing Practice Studies detailing the impact of immunosenescence on neutropenia and outcomes for neutropenic older adults are necessary to advance clinical research and practice.
Use of prostaglandin, hypertonic saline and oxytocin for second-trimester abortion

The management of second-trimester abortion is still not satisfactory with respect to safety and side-effects; it is considered to be in a state of evolution. The goal of this investigation has been to combine, in reduced quantity, prostaglandin and hypertonic saline in order to minimize the complications and side-effects associated with the separate administration of each component. This study documents the results of a random sample of 385 abortions performed in the second trimester, induced by intra-amniotic instillation of prostaglandin (20 mg) and NaCl 5 and 10 g in different volumes and concentrations augmented with oxytocin. In a series of 20 patients, the coagulation profile is presented and the clinical characteristics of 4 groups are compared. This study demonstrated no coagulation defects. The gastrointestinal side-effects were reduced. In spite of the reduced dosage of each component, the instillation abortion interval still remained 17.08 h on the average. Incomplete abortion ranged from 32% to 48.78%. The data presented in this report suggests that combination of prostaglandin, hypertonic saline and oxytocin is feasible for midtrimester abortion.
An analysis of input use efficiency in tobacco production with respect to sustainability: The case study of Turkey

ABSTRACT The purpose of this paper is to analyze the efficiency of input use in tobacco production in Turkey with respect to sustainability. In the construction of cross sectional data, the provinces in the Aegean, Northwestern, Eastern-Southeastern Anatolian and Black Sea regions were considered. Face to face interviews were carried out with 300 farmers from the provinces which together produce at least 75% of regional tobacco output. Efficiency measures of tobacco farms in each region were calculated by Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA). Efficiency measures obtained from constant return to scale DEA were then decomposed into pure technical efficiency and scale efficiency. Total tobacco production (in kg) was used as the output indicator, and land (ha), labor (hours), tractor use (hours), nitrogen (kg), phosphorus (kg) and pesticide (kg) were considered as the main inputs. Econometric models were developed in order to determine the factors that affect the efficiency of regional tobacco production. The aver...
Isotope effect in the surface diffusion of hydrogen and deuterium on Ru(001)

The surface diffusion of hydrogen and deuterium on Ru(001) at low coverage was studied using laser-induced thermal desorption techniques. In the temperature range from 260 to 300 K, the surface diffusion coefficients could be expressed in Arrhenius form as D H =6.9×10 −4 cm 2 /s exp(−3.6±0.5 kcal mol −1 / RT ) and D D =4.6×10 −4 cm 2 /s exp(−4.1±0.5 kcal mol −1 / RT ) for hydrogen and deuterium, respectively. The observed isotope effect was somewhat larger than predicted by simple transition state theory but was within the limits of experimental error. Quantum mechanical tunneling can be playing, at best, only a minor role in the surface migration of hydrogen on Ru(001) at these temperatures.
The advantages of stereo vision in a face recognition system

Humans can recognize a face with binocular vision, while computers typically use a single face image. It is known that the performance of face recognition (by a computer) can be improved using the score fusion of multimodal images and multiple algorithms. A question is: Can we apply stereo vision to a face recognition system? We know that human binocular vision has many advantages such as stereopsis (3D vision), binocular summation, and singleness of vision including fusion of binocular images (cyclopean image). For face recognition, a 3D face or 3D facial features are typically computed from a pair of stereo images. In human visual processes, the binocular summation and singleness of vision are similar as image fusion processes. In this paper, we propose an advanced face recognition system with stereo imaging capability, which is comprised of two 2-in-1 multispectral (visible and thermal) cameras and three recognition algorithms (circular Gaussian filter, face pattern byte, and linear discriminant analysis [LDA]). Specifically, we present and compare stereo fusion at three levels (images, features, and scores) by using stereo images (from left camera and right camera). Image fusion is achieved with three methods (Laplacian pyramid, wavelet transform, average); feature fusion is done with three logical operations (AND, OR, XOR); and score fusion is implemented with four classifiers (LDA, k-nearest neighbor, support vector machine, binomial logical regression). The system performance is measured by probability of correct classification (PCC) rate (reported as accuracy rate in this paper) and false accept rate (FAR). The proposed approaches were validated with a multispectral stereo face dataset from 105 subjects. Experimental results show that any type of stereo fusion can improve the PCC, meanwhile reduce the FAR. It seems that stereo image/feature fusion is superior to stereo score fusion in terms of recognition performance. Further score fusion after image/feature fusion does not benefit much (or at all) for performance improvement which may imply that the power of image/feature/score fusion shall not be doubly applied to a face recognition process pipeline.
Primary Structure of the Snake Venom L-Amino Acid Oxidase Shows High Homology with the Mouse B Cell Interleukin 4-Induced Fig1 Protein

Abstract The 2.8-kb sequence of cDNA encoding southeastern diamondback rattlesnake venom L-amino acid oxidase was determined. A translated single open reading frame revealed a 58.7-kDa polypeptide containing a signal sequence and FAD binding motif. The protein similarity search and analysis showed that the snake L-amino acid oxidase possesses the highest degree of homology (37% of identity) with a protein encoded by the mouse B cell interleukin 4-induced Fig1 gene.
Paddlefish (Polyodon spathula): Growth and Food of Young of the Year and a Suggested Technique for Measuring Length

Abstract The mean total length of young-of-the-year paddlefish (Polyodon spathula) from Lewis and Clark Lake (a main-stem Missouri River reservoir at the Nebraska-South Dakota border) was 215 mm on 31 August of the first summer of life and estimated to be 296 mm by the end of the first growing season; average growth rate was 2.7 mm/day. The diet in 1972 consisted of zooplankton and aquatic and terrestrial insects. Daphnia pulex was by far the most important food occurring in stomachs of all 79 fish 30-149 mm long. Aquatic insects were important in late June and early July, and in August. The kinds of insects found in the stomachs suggested that the young fish fed at night in open water, near the surface.
Effects of sustained proNGF blockade on attentional capacities in aged rats with compromised cholinergic system

Disruption in nerve growth factor (NGF) signaling via tropomyosin-related kinase A (trkA) receptors compromises the integrity of the basal forebrain (BF) cholinergic system, yielding cognitive, specifically attentional, impairments in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Although normal aging is considered a risk factor for AD, the mechanisms underlying the selective vulnerability of the aging cholinergic system to trkA disruption is not clear. The levels of proNGF, a proneurotrophin that possesses higher affinity for p75 receptors, increase in aging. The present study was designed to test the hypothesis that cholinergic and attentional dysfunction in aged rats with reduced BF trkA receptors occurs due to the overactivation of endogenous proNGF signaling. We employed a viral vector that produced trkA shRNA to suppress trkA receptors in the corticopetal cholinergic neurons of aged rats. BF trkA suppression impaired animals' performance on signal trials in both the sustained attention task (SAT) and the cognitively taxing distractor version of SAT (dSAT) and these deficits were normalized by chronic intracerebroventricular administration of proNGF antibody. Moreover, depolarization-evoked acetylcholine (ACh) release and the density of cortical cholinergic fibers were partially restored in these animals. However, SAT/dSAT scores reflecting overall performance did not improve following proNGF blockade in trkA knockdown rats due to impaired performance in non-signal trials. Sustained proNGF blockade alone did not alter baseline attentional performance but produced moderate impairments during challenging conditions. Collectively, our findings indicate that barring proNGF-p75 signaling may exert some beneficial effects on attentional capacities specifically when BF trkA signaling is abrogated. However, endogenous proNGF may also possess neurotrophic effects and blockade of this proneurotrophin may not completely ameliorate attentional impairments in AD and potentially hinder performance during periods of high cognitive load in normal aging.
The liquidity effect: Evidence from the U.S.

Abstract Using a simple cointegrated vector autoregression (VAR) I find strong evidence for a liquidity effect at policy relevant time horizons with a broad monetary aggregate. The liquidity effect is present for both nominal and real interest rates.
Controlled synthesis and structural stability of alginate-based nanofibers

Electrospinning has emerged as a unique and versatile technique for the fabrication of nanofibrous structures with well-defined architecture to mimic the native extracellular matrix for tissue engineering applications. In this study, natural polymer alginate-based nanofibers were fabricated by electrospinning blend solutions of alginate and polyethylene oxide (PEO). To obtain better fibrous morphology and structural uniformity, the influence of alginate/PEO ratio and surfactants on the electrospun products were investigated. This study elucidated that polymer solution viscosity is a key factor that regulates the electrospinnability of the solution and the structure of the electrospun product. The sustained structural integrity of nanofibers in aqueous environments as well as simulated body fluid, which is essential for tissue engineering applications, was improved by crosslinking. This study also revealed that the polymer solution properties and thus the solution spinnability changed over storage time in the ambient environment, which can be a major source in causing the problem of reproducibility or resulting in differed structures when the solution is electrospun at different times. In light of the general biocompatibility of alginate, the technical approaches introduced and the underlying mechanisms revealed in this study may be of benefit to the production of alginate-based nanofibrous matrices for a wide range of tissue engineering applications.
Characterization of the ouabain-insensitive ATPase activity of rat liver plasma membranes.

AbstractVery little is currently known about the ouabain-insensitive ATPase activity of the liver plasma membrane; we have therefore characterized it in plasma membranes from rat liver prepared using two different isolation techniques1. Greater than 85% of ATPase activity in both preparations was ouabain-insensitive2. Based on the effects of multiple inhibitors, including dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCCD), N-ethylmaleimide (NEM), vanadate, and oligomycin, the ouabain-insensitive ATPase activity of rat liver plasma membranes consists of a family of ATP-hydrolysing enzymes3. Ouabain-insensitive ATPase activity was stimulated by HCO3- in both plasma membranes (13 %) and mitochondria (69%) over the range of 7.5 to 9.0, and HCO3- stimulation was similarly inhibited by oligomycin in both preparations4. A fraction of the ouabain-insensitive ATPase of liver plasma membranes is inhibited by DCCD and is resistent to inhibition by oligomycin; these characteristics are similar to those of the non-mitochondrial H+-ATPas...
Optimal spatial resolution for collection of ground data and multi-sensor image mapping of a soil erosion cover factor.

Abstract Military training activities disturb ground and vegetation cover of landscapes and increases potential soil erosion. To monitor the dynamics of soil erosion, there is an important need for an optimal sampling design in which determining the optimal spatial resolutions in terms of size of sample plots used for the collection of ground data and the size of pixels for mapping. Given a sample size, an optimal spatial resolution should be cost-efficient in both sampling costs and map accuracy. This study presents a spatial variability-based method for that purpose and compared it with the traditional methods in a study area in which a soil erosion cover factor was sampled and mapped with multiple plot sizes and multi-sensor images. The results showed that the optimal spatial resolutions obtained using the spatial variability-based method were 12 and 20 m for years 1999 and 2000, respectively, and were consistent with those using the traditional methods. Moreover, the most appropriate spatial resolutions using the high-resolution images were also consistent with those using ground sample data, which provides a potential to use the high-resolution images instead of ground data to determine the optimal spatial resolutions before sampling. The most appropriate spatial resolutions above were then verified in terms of cost-efficiency which was defined as the product of sampling cost and map error using ordinary kriging without images and sequential Gaussian co-simulation with images to generate maps.
Estimation of Truck Traffic Volume from Single Loop Detectors with Lane-to-Lane Speed Correlation:

An algorithm for real-time estimation of truck traffic in multilane free ways was proposed. The algorithm used data from single loop detectors—the most widely installed surveillance technology for urban freeways in the United States. The algorithm worked for those freeway locations that have a truck-free lane and exhibit high lane-to-lane speed correlation. These conditions are met by most urban freeway locations. The algorithm produced real-time estimates of the truck traffic volumes at the location. It also can be used to produce alternative estimates of the mean effective vehicle length, which can improve speed estimates from single loop detector data. The algorithm was tested with real freeway data and produced estimates of truck traffic volumes with only 5.7% error. It also captured the daily patterns of truck traffic and mean effective vehicle length. Applied to loop data on Interstate 710 near Long Beach, California, during the dockworkers' lockout October 1 to 9, 2002, the algorithm found a 32% re...
Respiratory Research in the Critically Ill Pediatric Patient: Why Is It So Difficult?

Pediatric clinicians strive to base their management decisions on best available evidence. In the quantitative research paradigm, the highest level of evidence is derived from a conclusive randomized controlled clinical trial (RCT). Currently, there are few adequately powered RCTs to support pediatric acute respiratory care, but this landscape is changing. We are all obligated to ensure the relevance of our research, to mentor junior investigators, and to support knowledge development in our field. This paper reviews the hurdles faced by clinical investigators in the field of pediatric critical care and offers suggestions for future clinical studies.