cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Students Learn Without Lectures: Scaffolded Problem-Based Learning in an Applied Fluid Flow and Heat Transfer Course

During active learning exercises, students are engaged in their own learning. As a result understanding and retention generally increase. This paper describes a class in which two major concepts were taught in modules where several forms of active learning were combined. Descriptions of the activities are included in the paper. Student learning was assessed through the projects and exams. There was no statistically significant difference in these students’ scores compared with students who had been taught the material in a traditional classroom by the same instructor.
Use of a group-reactive and other monoclonal antibodies in an enzyme immunodot assay for identification and presumptive serotyping of aquatic birnaviruses.

A panel of monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) was prepared and used to develop an enzyme immunodot assay for the rapid identification and presumptive serotyping of aquatic birnaviruses. Comparison of the reaction patterns of these MAbs with representative virus isolates indicated that one MAb recognizes a serogroup-reactive epitope and can therefore be used for identification of all serogroup A aquatic birnaviruses, the predominant serotype worldwide. Other MAbs exhibited more restrictive specificities, permitting the presumptive serotyping of viruses of the three recognized serotypes and the identification of some individual strains. This assay, in which MAbs are used, is more efficient in terms of time, cost, and case of performance and provides significant advantages in specificity and standardization compared with currently used tests. Images
Breastfeeding and stunting among toddlers in Peru.

This paper presents the results of a study on the relationship between breast-feeding and linear growth in a poor urban community near Lima Peru. It provides an analysis of how the association between prolonged breast-feeding and growth changes over the second year of life. It discusses whether the association changes with age and whether reverse causality continues to be the explanation of the negative association between breast-feeding and growth.
On the female plumage of Glow-throated Hummingbird Selasphorus ardens Salvin, 1870

Glow-throated Hummingbird Selasphorus ardens is a poorly known trochilid described from the highlands of western Panama. It is documented by no more than 12 putative specimens of which the last was collected in 1924. Most specimens have ambiguous or untraceable localities. There are few recent reports, and the lack of reliable diagnostic criteria has limited efforts to understand the status, distribution and life history of S. ardens. We reviewed the extant specimen material and demonstrate that published descriptions of female plumage cannot be verified and that female plumage is unknown.
Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol response after statin initiation among persons living with human immunodeficiency virus.

Background Meta-analyses of general population studies report mean low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) reductions of 30% to Objective To evaluate LDL-C response after statin initiation among PLWH. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study of PLWH initiating statins between 2009 and 2013 (N = 706). Patients were categorized into mutually exclusive groups in the following hierarchy: history of coronary heart disease (CHD), diabetes, prestatin LDL-C ≥190 mg/dL, 10-year predicted ASCVD risk ≥7.5%, and none of the above (ie, unknown statin indication). The primary outcome was a ≥30% reduction in LDL-C after statin initiation. Results Among patients initiating statins, 5.8% had a history of CHD, 13.6% had diabetes, 6.2% had LDL-C ≥190 mg/dL, 35.4% had 10-year ASCVD risk ≥7.5%, and 39.0% had an unknown statin indication. Among patients with a history of CHD, 31.7% achieved a ≥30% LDL-C reduction compared with 25.0%, 59.1%, and 33.9% among those with diabetes, LDL-C ≥190 mg/dL, and 10-year ASCVD risk ≥7.5%, respectively. In multivariable adjusted analyses and compared to patients with an unknown statin indication, LDL-C ≥ 190 mg/dL was associated with a prevalence ratio for an LDL-C reduction ≥30% of 1.81 (95% confidence interval, 1.34–2.45), whereas no statistically significant association was present for history of CHD, diabetes, and 10-year ASCVD risk ≥7.5%. Conclusion A low percentage of PLWH achieved the expected reductions in LDL-C after statin initiation, highlighting an unmet need for ASCVD risk reduction.
Agriculture, Evolution, and Paradigms

There is no reason why the principles which have acted so efficiently under domestication should not have acted under nature.
Current Status, Trends, and Problem-Solving in Applied Climatology

A liberal education is one that presumably provides a variety of experiences for dealing with the vagaries of life. Many hold that the more varied these experiences, the greater will be a person’s ability to deal with technological and social changes and his or her potential for contributing to society. In contrast, some see an evolving trend, fostered by the perceived, increasingly complex nature of society (as well as student enrollment trends), which must necessarily lead to fewer experiences, more prescribed learning within a chosen subject, and, again presumably, greater competence in specific aspects of a discipline. Under this viewpoint, application of specific knowledge could have a potentially greater impact on society than a general education might provide. The purpose of this essay is to comment briefly on these approaches to education in geography, turn the focus to applied climatology, and, finally, provide some typical examples of problems applied climatologists often work on as employees of private and public agencies.
A new analytical performance model for cylindrical microstrip printed antenna

The fringing field is one of the parameters that have a great effect on the performance of microstrip printed antennas. The fringing field affects the resonance frequency and consequently affects all antenna parameters such as, input impedance, voltage standing wave ratio, return loss, electric and magnetic radiation fields, gain, efficiency, quality factor and bandwidth. In this thesis we present, a new analytical model for the effect of fringing field on the effective dielectric constant and on the resonance frequency of the microstrip printed antenna. The new model introduces full mathematical expressions for all antenna performance parameters as a function of curvature for a printed microstrip antenna. The model is also used in case of using an array consists of two elements of rectangular microstrip antenna. Mutual coupling coefficient between the elements is also given. The effect of temperature on a substrate material is presented. Effective dielectric constant and resonance frequency are calculated as a function of curvature and temperature. Hence, all antenna parameters as a function of wide range of temperature and curvature are introduced. The new model is used to calculate the parameters of a conformal substrate printed on a cylindrical body for TM10 and TM01 mode for a Giga Hertz range, 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz ranges. The substrate materials are RT/duroid-5880 PTFE, K-6098 Teflon/Glass, and Epsilam-10 ceramic-filled Teflon, commercially available substrate, and compare the result for different dielectric constant with the new model. Those materials contained Teflon and or ceramic which mean these materials are flexible so we can use those materials as substrate on conformal microstrip antenna. The dielectric constants for the used materials are 2.2, 2.5 and 10 respectively with a tangent loss 0.0015, 0.002 and 0.0004 respectively. Experimental results would confirm the accuracy of the analytical model. Furthermore, different antennas designs, their implementation and performance measurements are also presented.
2008 Katharine A. Lembright Award and Lecture--The Effects of Alcohol and Tobacco Smoke on the Cardiovascular System

More than half of Americans aged 12 years or older (125 million people) report being current alcohol (ethanol) drinkers. Twenty-five percent of U.S. adults have an alcohol use problem or drinking pattern that places them at risk for developing social, psychological, and medical problems. In both sexes, long-term heavy alcohol consumption is a leading cause of a dilated cardiomyopathy (CM) phenotype, characterized by an enlarged myocardium with systolic dysfunction. The mechanisms that underlie these myocardial changes remain incompletely understood, but likely involve oxidative stress, myocyte loss, and intracellular organelle dysfunction. Interestingly, though CM occurs in women, there are discrepancies regarding the duration/amount of alcohol consumption required to produce structural and functional changes in the female myocardium. Binge drinking is associated with a number of adverse health effects. However, there is limited information regarding the effects of binge drinking on the cardiovascular system. Binge and chronic drinking are also often accompanied by cigarette smoking; both drinking and smoking are associated with increased risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Of particular concern is that among U.S. college students (individuals with the highest rates of binge drinking), cigarette smoking is increasing. This lecture will focus on the adverse effects of alcohol consumption on the cardiovascular system. Determining what cardiovascular effects are attributable to unhealthy drinking patterns, cigarette smoking, and their combination will be critical for understanding and treating cardiovascular disorders in alcohol abusers and cigarette smokers.
Exploration on Identity Transmission from Organizations to Individuals

The identity literature has only recently begun to explore the broad and important question,“How are identities linked across levels in organizations?” (Ashforth, Rogers & Corley,2011). In this sym...
Single-Dose Linaclotide Is Equal in Efficacy to Polyethylene Glycol for Bowel Preparation Prior to Capsule Endoscopy.

Background Video capsule endoscopy provides noninvasive visualization of the small bowel, but yield is often limited by debris. At our institution, preparation with polyethylene glycol (PEG) and simethicone is used to improve visualization. Aims We hypothesized that linaclotide and simethicone would yield equal to better results. Methods We enrolled 29 subjects for the experimental regimen of linaclotide and simethicone. We maintained standard NPO status, clear liquid period, and simethicone dose. Subjects received 290 μg of linaclotide 1 h prior to capsule. We randomly selected 30 historical PEG controls. Two blinded gastroenterologists graded visualization as ideal/excellent, good, fair, or poor and measured small bowel transit time. Results Thirteen men and 16 women were enrolled with an average age of 61. There was no significant difference in exam quality between linaclotide and control. Preparation was rated as ideal/excellent or good in 19 of 28 of linaclotide and 18 of 28 PEG subjects when recorder entered the small bowel (p = 0.78, chi-square). Median small bowel transit was 192 min (linaclotide) versus 202 min (PEG), respectively (p = 0.93, t test). Three studies (1 linaclotide and 2 PEG) failed to leave the stomach; 1 linaclotide subject had recorder failure. Diagnostic yield was similar (18/29 for linaclotide and 16/30 for PEG, p = 0.50, chi-square). There were no serious side effects. No differences in age, sex, BMI, or frequency of diabetes, GERD, or gastroparesis were measured between the groups. Conclusions Single-dose linaclotide 1 h before capsule endoscopy was equally effective when compared to PEG in terms of visualization and transit time. This trial was registered at ClincialTrials.gov, number NCT02465385.
Collision warning system: embedded enabled (RTMaps with NXP BLBX2)

Forward Collision Warning (FCW) also referred as the Forward Collision Avoidance (FCA) system has become an essential part of the Autonomous cars or smart vehicles. The FCW System has found its position as one of the foremost automobile safety features included in the present smart vehicles. This paper proposes a Forward collision warning system which includes its subsystem as Forward-looking automotive radar model and a Classifier algorithm developed and designed in the Intempora RTMaps Embedded with NXP Bluebox 2.0. The classifier and regression algorithm work on the principle of supervised learning, the proposed model predicts the collision or no-collision occurrence based on the radar sensed inputs. The implementation, precision and accuracy of the classifier and regression algorithm is presented. The proposed model is deployed on the Bluebox 2.0 platform with the RTMaps Embedded framework.
Asymmetric Formation of Quaternary Centers through Aza-Annulation of Chiral .beta.-Enamino Esters with Acrylate Derivatives

The stereoselective formation of six-membered nitrogen heterocycles that contain an asymmetric quaternary carbon center was achieved through aza-annulation of β-enamino amide substrates with activated acrylate derivatives. Condensation of a racemic β-keto amide with an optically active primary amine, either (R)-α-methylbenzylamine or α-amino esters, generated the corresponding optically active tetrasubstituted secondary enamine, in which the enamine tautomer was stabilized through conjugation with an amide carbonyl. Treatment of the intermediate enamine with acryloyl chloride, acrylic anhydride, or sodium acrylate/ethyl chloroformate resulted in aza-annulation to give the corresponding δ-lactam with high diastereoselectivity (>96% de). For the variety of different β-enamino amide substrate classes examined in this reaction, the optimum method for activation of the acrylate derivative was the use of EtO2CCl. When aza-annulation was performed with an α-acetamido-substituted acrylate derivative, the stereose...
Behaviors that challenge disability studies

How should we think about challenging behavior? Behaviorist approaches tend to dominate the field, but new approaches make power, inequality, and resistance central to their analysis. I explore fou...
Fibroblast growth factor 9 (FGF9) inhibits myogenic differentiation of C2C12 and human muscle cells

Osteoporosis and sarcopenia (osteosarcopenia (OS)) are twin-aging diseases. The biochemical crosstalk between muscle and bone seems to play a role in OS. We have previously shown that osteocytes produce soluble factors with beneficial effects on muscle and vice versa. Recently, enhanced FGF9 production was observed in the OmGFP66 osteogenic cell line. To test its role in myogenic differentiation, C2C12 myoblasts were treated with recombinant FGF9. FGF9 as low as 10 ng/mL inhibited myogenic differentiation, suggesting that FGF9 might be a potential inhibitory factor produced from bone cells with effects on muscle cells. FGF9 (10-50 ng/mL) significantly decreased mRNA expression of MyoG and Mhc while increasing the expression of Myostatin. Consistent with the phenotype, RT-qPCR array revealed that FGF9 (10 ng/mL) increased the expression of Icam1 while decreased the expression of Wnt1 and Wnt6 decreased, respectively. FGF9 decreased caffeine-induced Ca2+ release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) of C2C12 myotubes and reduced the expression of genes (i.e. Cacna1s, RyR2, Naftc3) directly associated with intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis. Myogenic differentiation in human skeletal muscle cells was similarly inhibited by FGF9 but required higher doses of 200 ng/mL FGF9. FGF9 was also shown to stimulate C2C12 myoblast proliferation. FGF2 and the FGF9 subfamily members FGF16 and FGF20 also inhibited C2C12 myoblast differentiation and enhanced proliferation. Intriguingly, the differentiation inhibition was independent of proliferation enhancement. These findings suggest that FGF9 may modulate myogenesis via a complex signaling mechanism.
Staphylococcus aureus Epidemiology in Wildlife: A Systematic Review

Staphylococcus aureus is a common bacterial colonizer of humans and a variety of animal species. Many strains have zoonotic potential, moving between humans and animals, including livestock, pets, and wildlife. We examined publications reporting on S. aureus presence in a variety of wildlife species in order to more cohesively review distribution of strains and antibiotic resistance in wildlife. Fifty-one studies were included in the final qualitative synthesis. The most common types documented included ST398, ST425, ST1, ST133, ST130, and ST15. A mix of methicillin-resistant and methicillin-susceptible strains were noted. A number of molecular types were identified that were likely to be found in wildlife species, including those that are commonly found in humans or other animal species (including livestock). Additional research should include follow-up in geographic areas that are under-sampled in this study, which is dominated by European studies.
Ensuring the dignity and autonomy of SNAP recipients

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly known as the Food Stamp Program) is the most important tool used to reduce food insecurity in the U.S. Central to its success is the high participation rate among eligible recipients. In this paper I consider a primary reason for this, namely that SNAP treats recipients with dignity and autonomy by allowing recipients shop at the same stores as other consumers; by not imposing work requirements; by not discouraging work; and by allowing households the freedom to make purchasing decisions consistent with the needs of household members.
Model-Informed Bayesian Estimation Improves the Prediction of Morphine Exposure in Neonates and Infants.

Background Pain control in infants is an important clinical concern, with potential long-term adverse neurodevelopmental effects. Intravenous morphine is routinely administered for postoperative pain management; however, its dose-concentration-response relationship in neonates and infants has not been well characterized. Although the current literature provides dosing guidelines for the average infant, it fails to control for the large unexplained variability in morphine clearance and response in individual patients. Bayesian estimation can be used to control for some of this variability. The authors aimed to evaluate morphine pharmacokinetics (PKs) and exposure in critically ill neonates and infants receiving standard-of-care morphine therapy and compare a population-based approach to the model-informed Bayesian techniques. Methods The PKs and exposure of morphine and its active metabolites were evaluated in a prospective opportunistic PK study using 221 discarded blood samples from 57 critically ill neonates and infants in the neonatal intensive care unit. Thereafter, a population-based PK model was compared with a Bayesian adaptive control strategy to predict an individual's PK profile and morphine exposure over time. Results Among the critically ill neonates and infants, morphine clearance showed substantial variability with a 40-fold range (ie, 2.2 to 87.1, mean 23.7 L/h/70 kg). Compared with the observed morphine concentrations, the population-model based predictions had an R of 0.13, whereas the model-based Bayesian predictions had an R of 0.61. Conclusions Model-informed Bayesian estimation is a better predictor of morphine exposure than PK models alone in critically ill neonates and infants. A large variability was also identified in morphine clearance. A further study is warranted to elucidate the predictive covariates and precision dosing strategies that use morphine concentration and pain scores as feedbacks.
The molecular basis of coupling between poly(A)-tail length and translational efficiency

In animal oocytes and early embryos, mRNA poly(A)-tail length strongly influences translational efficiency (TE), but later in development this coupling between tail length and TE disappears. Here, we elucidate how this coupling is first established and why it disappears. Overexpressing cytoplasmic poly(A)-binding protein (PABPC) in frog oocytes specifically improved translation of short-tailed mRNAs, thereby diminishing coupling between tail length and TE. Thus, coupling requires limiting PABPC, implying that in coupled systems longer-tail mRNAs better compete for limiting PABPC. In addition to expressing excess PABPC, post-embryonic cells had two other properties that prevented strong coupling: terminal-uridylation-dependent destabilization of mRNAs lacking bound PABPC, and a regulatory regime wherein PABPC contributes minimally to TE. Thus, these results revealed three fundamental mechanistic requirements for coupling and defined the context-dependent functions for PABPC, in which this protein promotes TE but not mRNA stability in coupled systems and mRNA stability but not TE in uncoupled systems.
Static Pricing.

A monopolist sells items repeatedly over time to a consumer with persistent private information. The seller has limited commitment: she cannot commit to a long-term contract but always has the option to commit to posted prices for unsold items. A pricing strategy is static if it is history-independent. We show that the seller adopts static pricing in equilibrium. The ratchet effect eliminates potential gains from dynamic pricing for any degree of persistence of the private information.
Retinoblastoma: Focal Therapy – Laser Treatment, Cryotherapy, and Brachytherapy

In the management of intraocular retinoblastoma, the term “focal therapy” refers to focal modalities such as laser treatment, cryotherapy, and brachytherapy. They can be used as primary treatment for small tumors or in conjunction with intravenous chemotherapy for larger tumors (i.e., chemoreduction). Focal therapies have the inherent advantage of eradicating focal areas of tumor formation in the retina without any risk of regional or systemic side effects. In this chapter, general guidelines on the use of focal therapies are provided to assist an ophthalmic surgeon who is relatively new to the treatment of retinoblastoma. This chapter might also be of help to those ophthalmologists who would like to compare their current approach with principles and techniques used by other surgeons.
Corticosteroids and Enzyme Activity

Publisher Summary This chapter describes those enzymes that are altered following adrenalectomy or the administration of corticosteroids. The current literature on this subject is descriptive rather than interpretive. Although it bridges the interest of endocrinologists, pharmacologists, and biochemists, few answers are to be found at present to the questions most relevant to each of these fields. In developing some perspective concerning reports of metabolic changes that underlie corticosteroid effects, it is well to recognize the preponderance of reports concerning enzymes in liver. The less-studied changes in peripheral tissues responsive to the presence of corticosteroids are of equal, if not greater, significance in understanding the primary effects of these agents. Too few simultaneous studies of metabolic changes in liver and lymphoid tissues have been carried out. Also, in most enzymatic studies, rodent tissues have been examined as a matter of convenience. Evidence for comparable changes in human tissues would be very important, yet little or no such information is available. Information cannot be extrapolated from rodents or other species to the human in the absence of substantial comparative data.
MIMD interpretation on a GPU

Programming heterogeneous parallel computer systems is notoriously difficult, but MIMD models have proven to be portable across multi-core processors, clusters, and massively parallel systems. It would be highly desirable for GPUs (Graphics Processing Units) also to be able to leverage algorithms and programming tools designed for MIMD targets. Unfortunately, most GPU hardware implements a very restrictive multi-threaded SIMD-based execution model. This paper presents a compiler, assembler, and interpreter system that allows a GPU to implement a richly featured MIMD execution model that supports shared-memory communication, recursion, etc. Through a variety of careful design choices and optimizations, reasonable efficiency is obtained on NVIDIA CUDA GPUs. The discussion covers both the methods used and the motivation in terms of the relevant aspects of GPU architecture.
Economic Integration and the Civilising Commerce Hypothesis

Economic integration lowers one form of trade costs, tariffs and stimulates changes in other trade costs. This paper offers a model in which integration may raise or lower the important trade cost associated with insecurity. The model can help to explain the varied experience with integration and it points to the usefulness of combining enforcement-policy integration with trade-policy integration.
Heterogeneity of Apparent Diffusion Coefficients Within Infarcts

To the Editor: Back et al1 recently reported apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) measurements in acute stroke, finding no ADC fluctuations in peri-infarct regions over a 15-minute period. The reported data are convincing with regard to the temporal stability of infarct area within the 15-minute time window studied. We wish to address the issue of ADC spatial heterogeneity in stroke, specifically the authors’ contention that “there was a gradient of ADC reduction from the infarct periphery toward the infarct core.” They conclude that “this observation supports the view that the ischemia-induced early change in ADC is a blood flow-dependent event which reflects the severity (and duration) of the perfusion deficit.” As the authors have noted, this core-versus-periphery distinction in diffusion imaging has been previously advanced and is commonly accepted by the community of stroke researchers. However, it …
Constructing Affective Instruments

In chapter 1, conceptual definitions of selected affective characteristics were presented. This chapter will review a practical framework described by Anderson (1981) for operationally defining the affective variables.
SLAYER: memory safety for systems-level code

SLAyer is a program analysis tool designed to automatically prove memory safety of industrial systems code. In this paper we describe SLAyer's implementation, and its application to Windows device drivers. This paper accompanies the first release of SLAYER.
Sex-linked hereditary nystagmus.

Two families with hereditary sex-linked nystagmus are reported. In 1 family there were 9 males affected in 6 generations and in the other 5 males in 5 generations. The hereditary characteristic is presumably carried on the X chromosome as in red-green color blindness and hemophilia. The characteristics of the syndrome are discussed.
Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of subclavian stenosis from neurofibromatosis

We report a case of successful percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of a stenotic left subclavian artery caused by vascular involvement of neurofibromatosis type 1
Some Thoughts on Body Mass Index, Micronutrient Intakes and Pregnancy Outcome

A low prepregnancy body mass index is one of strongest predictors of adverse pregnancy outcomes such as preterm birth and fetal growth retardation. A low body mass interacts with other risk factors such as smoking and stress to increase risk of these outcomes, whereas zinc supplementation and low-dose aspirin increase birth weight in thin but not normal-size women. The association between maternal thinness and adverse pregnancy outcomes may be mediated more by a low plasma volume than by decreased protein or energy status. Maternal micronutrient status may partially mediate plasma volume expansion in pregnancy. Therefore, improving maternal micronutrient status may reduce adverse outcomes through this mechanism.
The effect of reservoirs on the climatology of warm-season thunderstorms in Southeast Texas, USA

Although ample research suggests that urban environments and their associated land use/land cover modify con- vective precipitation patterns, little research has explored the role of human-made bodies of water - artificial reservoirs - on thunderstorm climatology. This study provides the first radar-derived climatological analysis of the impact of artificial reser- voirs on warm-season convective initiation (CI) and associated thunderstorms. An area centred on three large reservoirs in Southeast Texas is examined to explore how the artificial bodies of water influence the spatiotemporal nature of deep, moist convection. A thunderstorm day and CI climatology for the study domain is constructed utilizing composite radar reflectivity data from 1997 to 2013. The results illustrate enhanced (reduced) convective activity on the edges of (atop) the reservoirs. The presence of the reservoirs also induced increased variability in thunderstorm occurrence compared to areas with no reservoirs. In addition, spatial analytical testing yields statistically significant higher densities of CI events on the southern shores of the reservoirs. Evidence that relatively small bodies of water can influence regional convective patterns and modify the risk of thunderstorm hazards is presented.
A home monitoring service was more effective than usual care in patients with essential hypertension.

(2001) Ann Intern Med 134, 1024. Rogers MA, Small D, Buchan DA . , et al. . Home monitoring service improves mean arterial pressure in patients with essential hypertension. A randomized, controlled trial. . Jun 5; . : . –32 . [OpenUrl][1][CrossRef][2][PubMed][3][Web of Science][4] QUESTION: In patients with essential hypertension, does a home monitoring service (HMS) improve mean arterial pressure more than usual care? Randomised (allocation concealed*), unblinded,* controlled trial with a median 11 weeks of follow up. University affiliated primary care outpatient clinics in New York, USA. 121 patients (mean age 62 y, 50% women) with essential hypertension who needed to change their antihypertensive treatment because of elevated blood pressure (BP) despite current use of antihypertensive medication, with undesirable side effects from the current antihypertensive drug, or with an office systolic BP ≥ 180 mm Hg or a diastolic BP ≥ 110 mm Hg with no current use of medication. In patients with diabetes mellitus, heart disease, stroke, nephropathy, peripheral arterial disease, or hypertensive retinopathy, an office systolic BP ≥ 130 mm Hg or … [1]: {openurl}?query=rft.jtitle%253DAnnals%2Bof%2BInternal%2BMedicine%26rft.stitle%253DANN%2BINTERN%2BMED%26rft.issn%253D0003-4819%26rft.aulast%253DRogers%26rft.auinit1%253DM.%2BA.M.%26rft.volume%253D134%26rft.issue%253D11%26rft.spage%253D1024%26rft.epage%253D1032%26rft.atitle%253DHome%2BMonitoring%2BService%2BImproves%2BMean%2BArterial%2BPressure%2Bin%2BPatients%2Bwith%2BEssential%2BHypertension%253A%2BA%2BRandomized%252C%2BControlled%2BTrial%26rft_id%253Dinfo%253Adoi%252F10.7326%252F0003-4819-134-11-200106050-00008%26rft_id%253Dinfo%253Apmid%252F11388815%26rft.genre%253Darticle%26rft_val_fmt%253Dinfo%253Aofi%252Ffmt%253Akev%253Amtx%253Ajournal%26ctx_ver%253DZ39.88-2004%26url_ver%253DZ39.88-2004%26url_ctx_fmt%253Dinfo%253Aofi%252Ffmt%253Akev%253Amtx%253Actx [2]: /lookup/external-ref?access_num=10.7326/0003-4819-134-11-200106050-00008&link_type=DOI [3]: /lookup/external-ref?access_num=11388815&link_type=MED&atom=%2Febmed%2F7%2F1%2F18.atom [4]: /lookup/external-ref?access_num=000168963400002&link_type=ISI
A carbon-13 NMR study of phosphine, phosphite, arsine and stibine ligands and their LNi(CO)3, LCr(CO)5 and η-(C5H5)Mn-(CO)2L complexes

Abstract 13 C NMR chemical shift and J ( 13 C 31 P) coupling constant data are presented for PPh 3− n Me n ( n = 0, 1 and 2, P(OPh) 3 , PEt 3 , AsPh 3 and SbPh 3 ligands, and some corresponding LNi(CO) 3 , LCr(CO) 5 and η-(C 5 H 5 )Mn(CO) 2 L complexes. Analysis of the 13 C NMR chemical shift data for the C(4) resonance in these C 6 H 5 X derivatives suggests: (1) a resonance substituent parameter R = 0.005 for X = PPh 2 and R = 0.09 for X = (CO) 5 CrPPh 2 , (2) a decrease in the resonance interaction of the Group VA atom with the phenyl ring in EPh 3 derivatives in the order E = P > As > Sb, and (3) an increase in the electron density at the phosphorus atom in PPh 3− n Me n derivatives in the order: PPh 3 2 Me 2 . There appears tobe an anomalous shielding of the C(1) resonance in these derivatives upon complexation, and with increasing electronegativity of the Group Va atom. The electron-withdrawing character of the metal carbonyl moiety appears to increase in the order: η-(C 5 H 5 )Mn(CO) 2 L 3 5 . The magnitude of the 1 J ( 13 C 31 P) and 3 J ( 13 C 31 P) coupling in trialkyl and triaryl phosphines increases upon complexation, while the magnitude of the 2 J ( 13 C 31 P) coupling decreases. As a result, in (Me 2 PhP)Ni(CO) 3 , the 3 J ( 13 C 31 P) coupling to the C(3,5) resonance of the phenyl group is larger than the 2 J ( 13 C 31 P) coupling to the C(2,6) resonance. In contrast, complexation of triphenyl phosphite leads to an apparent increase in the magnitude of the 2 J ( 13 C 31 P) coupling and a decrease in the magnitude of the 3 J ( 13 C 31 P) coupling. The signs of the one-, two- and three-bond J ( 13 C 31 P) coupling constants in Ph 3 PMo(CO) 5 have been determined to be positive.
ASSOCIATIONS OF BENTHIC MACROINVERTEBRATE ASSEMBLAGES WITH ENVIRONMENTAL VARIABLES IN THE UPPER CLEAR CREEK WATERSHED, CALIFORNIA

Benthic macroinvertebrates are integral components of stream ecosystems and are often used to assess the ecological integrity of streams. We sampled streams in the upper Clear Creek drainage in the Klamath-Siskiyou Ecoregion of northwestern California in fall 2004 (17 sites) and 2005 (original 17 plus 4 new sites) with the objectives of documenting the benthic macroinvertebrate assemblages supported by the streams in the area, determining how those assemblages respond to environmental variables, assessing the biological condition of the streams using a benthic index of biotic integrity (IBI), and understanding the assemblages in the context of biodiversity of the ecoregion. We collected both reach-wide (RW) and targeted-riffle (TR) macroinvertebrate samples at each site. The macroinvertebrate assem- blages were diverse, with over 150 genera collected for each sampling protocol. The macroinvertebrate assemblages appeared to be most responsive to a general habitat gradient based on stream size, gradient, flow, and dominance of rif- fles. A second important habitat gradient was based on elevation and dominance of riffles. A gradient in water quality based on concentrations of dissolved ions and metals was also important. Models based on these 3 gradients had Spear- man's rank correlations with macroinvertebrate taxonomic composition of 0.60 and 0.50 for the TR and RW samples, respectively. The majority (>50%) of the sites were in good or very good biological condition based on IBI scores. The diversity of macroinvertebrate assemblages is associated with the diversity of habitats available in the Klamath-Siskiyou Ecoregion. Maintaining the aquatic habitats in good condition is important in itself but is also vital to maintaining biodi- versity in this diverse and unique ecoregion.
Developmental trajectories of regulating attentional selection over time.

Adaptive behavior in learning environments requires both the maintenance of an attentional focus on a task-set and suppression of distracting stimuli. This may be especially difficult when the competing information is more appealing than the target event. The aptitude to “pay attention” and resist distraction has often been noted as an important prerequisite of successful acquisition of intellectual abilities in children. This focused review draws on research that highlights interindividual differences in the temporal dynamics of attentional engagement and disengagement under competition, and their relation with age and cognitive/academic skills. Although basic strategies of attention control are present in very young children, the more refined ability to manage attentional resources over time in an economic and adaptive fashion appears during early school years, dramatically improves until the early teen years, and continues to develop into late adolescence. Across studies, parameters of attention control over time predict specific aspects of academic performance, rather than general intellectual ability. We conclude that the ability to strategically regulate the dynamic allocation of attention at rapid rates may represent an important element of cognitive and academic development.
An innate immunity-regulating virulence determinant is uniquely encoded by the Andes virus nucleocapsid protein.

ABSTRACT Andes virus (ANDV) is the only hantavirus known to spread from person to person and shown to cause highly lethal hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) in patients and Syrian hamsters. Hantaviruses replicate in human endothelial cells and accomplish this by restricting the early induction of beta interferon (IFN-β)- and IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs). Our studies reveal that the ANDV nucleocapsid (N) protein uniquely inhibits IFN signaling responses directed by cytoplasmic double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) sensors RIG-I and MDA5. In contrast, N proteins from Sin Nombre, New York-1, and Prospect Hill hantaviruses had no effect on RIG-I/MDA5-directed transcriptional responses from IFN-β-, IFN-stimulated response element (ISRE)-, or κB-containing promoters. Ablating a potential S-segment nonstructural open reading frame (ORF) (NSs) within the ANDV plasmid expressing N protein failed to alter IFN regulation by ANDV N protein. Further analysis demonstrated that expressing the ANDV N protein inhibited downstream IFN pathway activation directed by MAVS, TBK1, and IκB kinase e (IKKe) but failed to inhibit transcriptional responses directed by constitutive expression of active interferon regulatory factor IRF3-5D or after stimulation by alpha interferon (IFN-α) or tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). Consistent with IFN pathway-specific regulation, the ANDV N protein inhibited TBK1-directed IRF3 phosphorylation (phosphorylation of serine 396 [pS396]) and TBK1 autophosphorylation (pS172). Collectively, these findings indicate that the ANDV N inhibits IFN signaling responses by interfering with TBK1 activation, upstream of IRF3 phosphorylation and NF-κB activation. Moreover, our findings reveal that ANDV uniquely carries a gene encoding a virulence determinant within its N protein that is capable of restricting ISG and IFN-β induction and provide a rationale for the novel pathogenesis and spread of ANDV. IMPORTANCE Andes virus (ANDV) is distinguished from other hantaviruses by its unique ability to spread from person to person and cause lethal hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS)-like disease in Syrian hamsters. However, virulence determinants that distinguish ANDV from other pathogenic hantaviruses have yet to be defined. Here we reveal that ANDV uniquely contains a virulence determinant within its nucleocapsid (N) protein that potently inhibits innate cellular signaling pathways. This novel function of the N protein provides a new mechanism for hantaviruses to regulate interferon (IFN) and IFN-stimulated gene (ISG) induction that is likely to contribute to the enhanced ability of ANDV to replicate, spread, and cause disease. These findings differentiate ANDV from other HPS-causing hantaviruses and provide a potential target for viral attenuation that needs to be considered in vaccine development.
Respiratory infections: Community-acquired pneumonia and newer microbes

Respiratory infections, especially community-acquired forms of pneumonia (CAP), are challenging for clinicians because (1) a causative microorganism can only be found in about 50% of cases; (2) initial therapy, therefore, must be based on a probable or most likely etiology in the context of the patient's overall medical condition; and (3) new microbes or those considered previously as normal flora or less virulent forms seem responsible for some cases. It is important to be acquainted with new causes of infection which include Legionella species, Chlamydia pneumoniae, diphtheroids in certain instances (Corynebacterium pseudodiphtheriticum), and viruses such as the Hanta strains. Infections with Bordetella pertussis are increasing. However, the ever present and most common cause of CAP, Streptococcus pneumoniae, continues to present problems because of increasing antibiotic resistance, the high case fatality rate when bacteremia accompanies pneumonia, and the inability to give prophylactic immunization to all people with risk factors for this infection.
Binaural speech recognition and the Stenger effect.

The present investigation examined the effects of systematically altering the balance between speech presentation levels to the 2 ears of 12 listeners with bilateral asymmetrical sensorineural hear...
The taxonomic status of feral muntjac deer (Muntiacus sp.) in England

Summary Two species of muntjac deer, the Indian and the Reeves', were introduced into England in the nineteenth and the present centuries. Feral muntjac deer now occur widely over the southern half of England. Their identity, however, is uncertain with claims being made for both species and for hybrids. Skulls and jaws of the two species of muntjac deer from their native countries and from feral animals from eight counties in England have been examined. From these measurements and from chromosome studies it is concluded that the feral muntjac deer in England are Reeves' muntjac. No evidence has been found to substantiate claims for the presence of either the Indian muntjac or hybrids.
An Apparatus and Protocol to Measure Shoulder Girdle Strength

Muscles actuating the shoulder girdle are important for stabilizing the scapula and coordinating phased kinematics of the shoulder complex. If these muscles become weak or imbalanced, joint instability and injury may result. Reliable measurement of shoulder strength is thus important for prevention, diagnosis, and rehabilitation of shoulder problems. To date, studies quantifying the strength of the shoulder girdle are limited. The purpose of this work was to design and evaluate a custom apparatus and corresponding protocol for measuring maximal, voluntary, isometric strength of the shoulder girdle during various forms of shrugging exercise. A custom apparatus was constructed as a rigid frame with a vertical post supporting a seat, seat back, and horizontal beam. The beam extends laterally on either side beyond and around the shoulders of a seated subject. A pair of arm extension members pivots on the beam about an axis aligned with the shoulder flexion-extension axis. These members can be locked in place at any angle. Between them is mounted a force-sensing grip assembly, which can be adjusted proximally or distally to accommodate varying shoulder girdle positions. Subjects grasp the grip assembly handles with extended elbows and push or pull as forcefully as possible. Nine female and ten male subjects participated in a protocol using the apparatus to measure maximum isometric force generated at three positions each for elevation, depression, protraction, and retraction of the shoulder girdle (3 positions X 4 modes =12 tests). A video motion capture system was used to measure shoulder girdle angles. The reliability of the approach was evaluated based on the repeatability of measured shoulder elevation angle, protraction angle, and total force over three days of testing. The apparatus performed well during the tests, providing a stable, rigid, yet adjustable platform for measuring shoulder girdle strength. Repeatability of force measurements was interpreted as very good to excellent, with intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) (2,1) values ranging from 0.83 to 0.95 for all tests except one (ICC=0.79). Repeatability of angle measurements was interpreted as good to excellent. For tests measuring elevation and depression strength, the ICC of elevation angle ranged from 0.85 to 0.89. For tests measuring protraction and retraction strength, the ICC of protraction angle ranged from 0.68 to 0.88. This type of apparatus could be an effective clinical tool for measuring strength in the shoulder girdle muscles. Use of the video motion capture system is optional.
Central nervous system infections due to Eikenella corrodens.

Abstract Eikenella corrodens is a gram-negative rod that has been identified as a cause of infection in the last few years. We present a case of a posterior fossa epidural, intradural, and cerebellar abscess successfully treated. The difficulty in diagnosis and the unusual susceptibility pattern of Eikenella corrodens are emphasized. The appropriate literature is reviewed.
Effects of Nicotine on Leading Saccades during Smooth Pursuit Eye Movements in Smokers and Nonsmokers with Schizophrenia

Several studies have shown that schizophrenic patients and their biological relatives generate a greater number of leading saccades during smooth pursuit eye movement (SPEM) tasks. This abnormality may reflect a failure of cortical and/or cerebellar areas to coordinate saccadic and pursuit eye movements during visual tracking. The pharmacology of this phenomenon is not known. Here, we sought to replicate and extend the findings of Olincy et al (1998), who found that nicotine transiently reduced the number of leading saccades during SPEMs. A total of 27 subjects with schizophrenia (17 males; 14 smokers), and 25 healthy comparison subjects (nine males; 14 smokers) completed an eye-tracking task after receiving a 1.0 mg nasal spray of nicotine and during drug-free conditions. Results confirm that nicotine reduces the number of leading saccadic eye movements during visual tracking in schizophrenic patients. Baseline impairments and the beneficial effects of nicotine were not restricted to patient smokers, as nonsmoker patients exhibited the greatest number of leading saccades in the no drug condition and exhibited the most pronounced improvements after nicotine administration. Improvement in patient nonsmokers was not a function of previous smoking history. No effect of nicotine was observed in control nonsmokers. In contrast to the previous study, nicotine appeared to improve performance in control smokers. Overall, the study results support a functional role of nACh receptors in improving eye-tracking performance, and are consistent with the hypothesis, articulated by several investigators, that nACh receptor system abnormalities are responsible for a number of schizophrenia-related neurophysiological deficits.
Symposium: Management Science Today and Tomorrow---Decision Making

Economists and psychologists are interested in the theory of human decision making behavior. So are neurophysiologists and psychoanalysts. So also are statisticians, game theorists, cyberneticians, information theorists, operations researchers and many others among the management scientists.
Needs Assessment for Worksite Nutrition Programs

Abstract Nutrition is often a theme of worksite health promotion programs and an assessment of needs should precede program development. Components of a nutritional assessment may include anthropometric, biochemical, clinical, dietary, and psychosocial data in addition to a medical history. Depending on available resources, program planners may choose a simplified or comprehensive nutritional needs assessment. In this report, we describe these two methods and present suggestions for implementation.
An age of infidels: the politics of religious controversy in the early United States

The historiographical turn to exploring the significance of early American religious and philosophical skepticism, as shown in the seminal work of James Turner's Without God, Without Creed: The Ori...