cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Biology and Conservation of the American White Pelican: Current Status and Future Challenges

Abstract The goals of this symposium were to foster exchange of information and to identify priorities for future research. The workshop, oral presentations, and poster session that comprised the symposium provided a broad overview of our knowledge of the biology and present status of the American White Pelican. Here, the workshop, the contributed papers at the symposium, and articles in this volume are summarized as they relate to the goals of the symposium.
Quantitative trait loci for floral morphology in Arabidopsis thaliana.

A central question in biology is how genes control the expression of quantitative variation. We used statistical methods to estimate genetic variation in eight Arabidopsis thaliana floral characters (fresh flower mass, petal length, petal width, sepal length, sepal width, long stamen length, short stamen length, and pistil length) in a cosmopolitan sample of 15 ecotypes. In addition, we used genome-wide quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping to evaluate the genetic basis of variation in these same traits in the Landsberg erecta × Columbia recombinant inbred line population. There was significant genetic variation for all traits in both the sample of naturally occurring ecotypes and in the L er × Col recombinant inbred line population. In addition, broad-sense genetic correlations among the traits were positive and high. A composite interval mapping (CIM) analysis detected 18 significant QTL affecting at least one floral character. Eleven QTL were associated with several floral traits, supporting either pleiotropy or tight linkage as major determinants of flower morphological integration. We propose several candidate genes that may underlie these QTL on the basis of positional information and functional arguments. Genome-wide QTL mapping is a promising tool for the discovery of candidate genes controlling morphological development, the detection of novel phenotypic effects for known genes, and in generating a more complete understanding of the genetic basis of floral development.
GREEN-FLUORESCENT PROTEIN MUTANTS WITH ALTERED FLUORESCENCE EXCITATION SPECTRA

Using random mutagenesis and visual selection of fluorescent clones, we have isolated a T2031 and a E222G mutant of the Aequorea green-fluorescent protein. Each mutant has one of the two fluorescence excitation bands of the wild type deleted and retains the other without a wavelength shift. This finding is consistent with each excitation band corresponding to a distinct spectroscopic state of the chromophore. Both mutations are single amino acid exchanges which in the linear sequence are located remotely from the chromophore but in the folded protein may be situated in its vicinity. We conclude that the mutations influence the fluorescence properties by changing the interactions between the chromophore and its protein environment.
The effect of commercially formulated, reduced crude protein diets, formulated to 11 apparent ileal digestible essential amino acids, on nitrogen retention by growing and finishing boars

Abstract Two experiments were carried out to determine the nitrogen retention (NR) and gross efficiency of NR (NR/NI) of boars offered diets with reduced crude protein (CP) levels designed to decrease nitrogen excretion. Six diets were compared which differed in CP content, from 177 to 253 g/kg and from 151 to 229 g/kg for growing and finishing boars, respectively. All diets were isocaloric and formulated to minimum amounts of all 11 essential amino acids on a determined apparent ileal digestible basis (IEAA), calculated from the lysine:IEAA ratio required for Ideal Protein (IP). Formulating the diets to all 11 IEAA was not sufficiently accurate to maintain dietary IP content at the lowest CP levels (177 and 151 g/kg). These two diets significantly increased NR/NI for the boars ( P P P
Effect of phosphate and sulfate fertilizers on selenium uptake by wheat (Triticum aestivum)

The objective of this study was to investigate whether oxyanionic phosphate (P) and sulfate (S) fertilizer management could influence selenium (Se) uptake by wheat (Triticum aestivum) in medium and high Se areas. Field studies were established at two locations for two growing seasons in central South Dakota, USA. Phosphate fertilizer was applied using three different methods (banded with seed, surface-broadcasted in the fall, or surface-broadcasted in the spring) using six different P rates. Sulfate fertilizers were broadcasted at four rates in the fall. Selenium concentration in wheat grain was significantly influenced by the interaction of P application methods and rates, but it was dependent on location. Grain Se concentration decreased in high Se availability soil when P fertilizer was applied, due to the dilution effect. Grain Se concentration and uptake was significantly decreased as S applications increased due to the competition effect, but the depression was apparent in high Se availability soil....
Effect of Fluid Flow on Smooth Muscle Cells in a 3-Dimensional Collagen Gel Model

Abstract—A 3D collagen gel model was developed to simulate interstitial fluid flow and to assess the importance of this flow on the biochemical production rates of vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs). Rat aortic SMCs were suspended in type I collagen, and the gel was supported by nylon fibers that allowed a 9-cm length of the SMC-gel model to withstand 90 cm H2O differential pressure over a 6-hour period without significant compaction. Up to 1 dyne/cm2 shear stress on the suspended SMCs could be induced by the pressure-driven interstitial flow. The suspended SMCs were globular, had a diameter of ≈10 μm, and were distributed uniformly throughout the gel. The collagen fibers formed a network that was connected randomly with the surface of SMCs and nylon fibers. The diameter of the collagen fibers was ≈100 nm, and the concentration of collagen was 2.5 mg/mL. Using these parameters, fiber matrix theory predicted a Darcy permeability coefficient (Kp) of 1.22×10−8 cm2, which was close to the measured value of K...
Cytarabine, venous catheter removal, sepsis, diagnosis of malignancy, and takotsubo syndrome.

Madias criticized in his letter to the editor that we underrate the difficulty of exploring possible triggers of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TC) in patients with leukemia in our recently published case report [1]. It is indisputable that causative factors for a TC are multifarious and therefore it is often difficult to identify a clear principle. We agree with Dr. Madias’ comment that in our case several potential triggers were present, such as late effect of cardiotoxic agents, sepsis, or emotional stress, all of which might have been the origin for the highly reduced left ventricular function. The association of TC with malignancies is undisputed, whereas the underlying pathophysiologic mechanism remains unclear. The stress of receiving the life-threatening diagnosis of cancer or an aggravation of the cardiac adrenoceptor sensitivity might be the origin [3]. Dr. Madias is right by raising the objection that we did not focus on specific cardiotoxic side effects of a single chemotherapeutic. However, in addition to listing and discussing all possible triggers for TC in detail, an important aspect was to make this complex disease pattern more known among clinical oncologists, who might not be familiar with this uncommon disease and consider TC into their future differential diagnosis. Stefan Baumann, M.D.
Is outpatient oral antibiotic therapy safe and effective for the treatment of acute uncomplicated diverticulitis

t s Editor’s Note: Emergency physicians must often make decisions about patient management without clear-cut data of sufficient quality to support clinical guidelines or evidence-based reviews. Topics in the Best Available Evidence section must be relevant to emergency physicians, are formally peer reviewed, and must have a sufficient literature base to draw a reasonable conclusion but not such a large literature base that a traditional “evidence-based” review, meta-analysis, or systematic review can be performed.
Early outcome after Glenn shunt and Fontan palliation and the impact of operation during viral respiratory season: analysis of a 19-year multi-institutional experience.

Background This study was done to investigate the impact of season of operation, age at operation, and surgical era on short-term outcome after single ventricle palliation. One small study suggests that operation during viral respiratory season is associated with prolonged pleural effusion and hospitalization. Single-institution studies also find improved outcomes after the Glenn shunt and Fontan over time, despite operation at a younger age. Methods The Pediatric Cardiac Care Consortium (PCCC) database for Fontan (n = 2,713) and Glenn shunt (n = 2,239) performed between 1982 and 2000 was utilized. Death during initial hospitalization and length of stay after each procedure were investigated. Viral respiratory season was defined as the interval of November to March. Results The mortality rate after Fontan was higher during the viral respiratory season (14 versus 11%, p = 0.03) and in children under age 2 years. Glenn shunt mortality was higher with operation before age of 120 days, but was not affected by operation during viral respiratory season. Age at operation for the Fontan procedure has decreased with declines in hospital mortality (14% to 7%, p Conclusions Fontan procedure performed during viral respiratory season is associated with an increased mortality. Short-term mortality and morbidity after the Glenn and Fontan procedures have improved in the recent era. Operation in the youngest age groups may adversely impact mortality.
From Language to Literature: Teaching Figurative Language in the College Foreign Language Class

College foreign language students frequently face a difficult transition when they move from the grammar text to the literary anthology. Many college students now study serious literature for the first time in the foreign language class. The instructor may find that, for these students, the introduction of the figurative language inherent in the study of literature frequently represents a greater language barrier than the foreign language itself. This article presents classroom techniques for introducing figurative language and literary analysis in the college foreign language class.
A “Story” of a Woman With Cystic Fibrosis

Munchausen syndrome is a pattern of abnormal behavior in which patients repeatedly present with symptoms that have no organic basis and are intentionally simulated or produced in order to assume the sick role and gain admission to the hospital. A 25-year-old white woman presented to our adult cystic fibrosis (CF) program and gave a detailed history consistent with a diagnosis of CF, a complicated disease with multiorgan involvement that is difficult to feign. However, discrepancies in her history were noted and objective measures of disease were inconsistent, including evidence of a fabricated sweat chloride result. We describe the classic characteristics of Munchausen syndrome that our patient exhibited, and report this unusual presentation of Munchausen syndrome to be consistent with the recommendation of reporting such cases to other physicians. Such knowledge is likely to result in less harm to the patient through unnecessary testing and treatment.
Can small shifts in circadian phase affect performance

Small shifts in circadian timing occur frequently as a result of daylight saving time or later weekend sleep. These subtle shifts in circadian phase have been shown to influence subjective sleepiness, but it remains unclear if they can significantly affect performance. In a retrospective analysis we examined performance on the Psychomotor Vigilance Test before bedtime and after wake time in 11 healthy adults on fixed sleep schedules based on their habitual sleep times. The dim light melatonin onset, a marker of circadian timing, was measured on two occasions. An average 1.1 h shift away from a proposed optimal circadian phase angle (6 h between melatonin onset and midpoint of sleep) significantly slowed mean, median and fastest 10% reaction times before bedtime and after wake time (p < 0.05). These results add to previous reports that suggest that humans may be sensitive to commonly occurring small shifts in circadian timing.
The application of fast adaptive wavelet expansion method in the computation of parameter matrices of multiple lossy transmission lines

The resistance and inductance matrices for multiple lossy transmission lines are evaluated from a two-dimensional field solution. This field solution is obtained by using a wavelet expansion method to solve a set of surface integral equations. The original two-dimensional integral equations are converted into one-dimensional integral equations by mapping the conductor surfaces into a periodic Hilbert space. The new operators are then expanded into wavelets by the modified nonstandard decomposition method. An Nlog(N) algorithm is obtained by employing the fast wavelet transform. The computational complexity of the matrix elements is reduced greatly by utilizing piecewise polynomial decompositions. The computation time is also reduced significantly by increasing the resolution levels of the wavelets; instead of increasing the number of basis functions, in order to accurately represent the behavior of the normal derivative at low frequencies. In addition, a very sparse and well conditioned matrix is obtained. As a result, the frequency range of the integral equation method has been extended at least three orders magnitude toward the lower end, than was feasible using conventional basis functions by Tsuk and Kong (see IEEE Trans. on Microwave Theory and Technique, vol.39, no.8, 1991). >
Importance of the Straits of Florida spawning ground to Atlantic sailfish (Istiophorus platypterus) and blue marlin (Makaira nigricans)

Much of the uncertainty in managing highly migratory pelagic species results from the scarcity of fisheriesindependent data relevant to determining long-term trends in abundance, migratory movements, and the relative importance of different spawning grounds. To address these issues, we used an ichthyoplankton-based method to quantify the overall level of spawning of sailfish (Istiophorus platypterus) and blue marlin (Makaira nigricans) in the Straits of Florida (SF). We estimated that during the 2 years (2003‐2004) of the study, 4.60 · 10 11 sailfish eggs and 4.49 · 10 11 blue marlin eggs were produced on an annual basis in this region. These egg production values, when combined with estimates of annual fecundity for each species and the most recent stock assessment estimate of total biomass, indicate that about 2.1% of Western Atlantic sailfish spawning and 1.6% of Atlantic-wide blue marlin spawning occurs in the SF. Additionally, popup satellite tags deployed on sailfish at the start of the spawning season revealed their short residency times in the SF, suggesting that a large (� 13%) transient portion of the sailfish population is responsible for the SF egg production. Overall, this study provides a critically needed fisheries-independent method of quantifying spatial and temporal trends in the abundance of highly migratory species. The application of this methodology in the SF indicated that aboveaverage levels of sailfish and blue marlin spawning occur in this area and, possibly more importantly, that the SF is a migratory bottleneck for these species.
Errors in ultrasound digital image distance measurements

Digital image distance measurements have two sources of error: they are the inherent image pixelation error and modality-specific registration errors. A theoretical analysis was performed to determine the pixelation error uncertainty in ultrasound (US) clinical and phantom digital image distance measurements. For horizontal or vertical phantom image distance measurements, the average absolute image pixelation error was found to be 0.5 pixel width. In the clinical horizontal case, the combined absolute distance measurement error due to pixel size and operator cursor placement errors was found to be 1.5 pixel widths (for a cursor placement error of 1 pixel width). For image clinical distance measurements, a formula is given for the dependence of the measurement error on the inclination of the measured structure in the pixel matrix. A protocol is recommended that minimizes all sources of error in clinical image distance measurements.
Vascular Cell Adhesion Molecule–1 Is Induced on Vascular Endothelia and Medial Smooth Muscle Cells in Experimental Cardiac Allograft Vasculopathy

Background Cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV) is the major cause of late death among heart transplant recipients. The pathogenesis of CAV is poorly understood. Methods and Results To better characterize CAV, we performed immunohistochemical analysis of vascular lesions in a previously described murine model of CAV. The B10.A strain hearts were transplanted heterotopically into B10.BR strain recipients. The cardiac allografts were harvested from 1 to 2 months after implantation. The majority of epicardial and intramyocardial coronary arteries in explanted hearts had developed intimal thickening. The cellular infiltrate of the intimal thickening, major histocompatibility (MHC) antigens, intracellular adhesion molecule–1 (ICAM-1), and vascular cell adhesion molecule–1 (VCAM-1) expression were studied with the use of immunohistochemistry. In experimental CAV in mice, the cellular infiltrate of expanded intima consisted of macrophages, T lymphocytes, and smooth muscle cells. A substantial number of macrophag...
Changing the Clock The Role of Campaigns in the Timing of Vote Decision

Time of vote decision research has shaped our understanding of the nature and influence of campaigns. Traditionally, time of decision has been viewed as a function of individual-level characteristics, especially political attentiveness. We use an 11-wave panel survey to evaluate two ways that electoral context interacts with individual-level factors to affect time of decision in the 2008 U.S. presidential election. First, we find that less politically attentive respondents living in locations where campaigning was most intense made up their minds earlier than those living elsewhere, while there is no such difference among the politically attentive. Second, we find that early-deciding partisans settled on a preferred general election candidate as soon as a presumed party nominee was known, resulting in different times of decision for Democrats and Republicans. Rather than time of decision simply constraining campaigns, these results suggest campaigns structure the time of decision.
Submission No. 6 to Senate Committee on Finance -- Summary of Staff Discussion Draft -- Unaddressed Issues and Request for Comments -- Responses

The Senate Committee on Finance international tax reform staff discussion draft issued November 19, 2013 sets out certain proposals for international tax reform. In a document titled “Summary of Staff Discussion Draft” issued on November 19, 2013 of the proposals, certain “Unaddressed Issues” were listed and comments were requested. This letter responds to certain of those "Unaddressed Issues". Comments are provided for the following "Unaddressed Issues":1. The pros and cons of the two options for taxing foreign market activities of foreign subsidiaries of U.S. businesses.2. The relative merits of Chairman Camp’s Option C as compared with the proposals in this Senate Finance Committee staff discussion draft.3. The treatment of foreign branches.4. Consideration of a "unitary" approach to international taxation.9. International tax rules affecting individuals.This is Submission 6 of 7 Comment Letters Provided to the Committee.
Modeling and Evaluation of Topological Insulator/Ferromagnet Heterostructure-Based Memory

Topological insulators (TIs) are unique materials that have insulating bulk but conducting surface states. In this paper, we propose a simulation framework for TI/ferromagnet (FM) heterostructures that can capture the electronic band structure of a TI while calculating the transport properties. Our model differs from TI/FM models proposed in the literature in a way that it can account for the 3-D band structure of TIs, the effects of exchange coupling and external magnetic field on the band structure. The proposed approach uses 2-D surface Hamiltonian for TIs that includes the quantum confinement effect calculated from a 3-D band diagram. We use this Hamiltonian with self-consistent non-equilibrium Green’s functions (NEGF) formalism to determine the charge and spin transport in TI/FM heterostructures. Our calculations agree well with experimental data and capture the unique features of a TI/FM heterostructure, such as the spin Hall angle, spin conductivity, and so on. Next, we incorporate the results into Landau–Lifshitz–Gilbert–Slonczewski formulation to simulate the magnetization dynamics of an FM layer sitting on top of a TI. Finally, we evaluate the performance of three different TI/FM memory structures and show that the TI-based memories can be energy efficient, if the shunting current through the FM layer is reduced.
The nuclear data, A key component for reactor studies, Overview of AREVA NP needs and applications

The quality of the nuclear data is essential for AREVA NP. Indeed, many AREVA NP activities such as reactor design, safety studies or reactor instrumentation use them as input data. So, the nuclear data can be considered as a key element for AREVA NP. REVA NP’s contribution in the improvement of the nuclear data consists in a joint effort with the CEA. It means a financing and a sharing of information which can give an orientation to the future research axis. The aim of this article is to present the industrial point of view from AREVA NP on the research on nuclear data. Several examples of collaborations with the CEA which have resulted in an improvement of the nuclear data are presented.
Trade-off between Desiccation and Predation Risk in the Blue Ridge Two-lined Salamander (Eurycea wilderae)

There has been increased attention on amphibian declines over the past two decades, and many researchers agree that the primary factor responsible for this decline is habitat fragmentation and degradation. A number of studies have begun to address the impacts of forest management practices on amphibian populations; however, information about behavioral responses of amphibians to forestry practices such as logging is still needed. Using laboratory experiments, I investigated the behavioral choices of Blue Ridge Two-lined Salamanders (Eurycea wilderae) when presented with dry and moist environments (representing logged and unlogged forests) both with and without predators. When no predator was present, E. wilderae preferred a moist environment. When a predator was present in the moist environment, the adult E. wilderae preferred to remain in the less suitable dry environment, while juveniles displayed no clear choice. After logging, E. wilderae are faced with a decision between two adverse environments, wit...
G225(P) Does wearing a uniform matter? the impact of research nurses wearing a uniform whist seeking parental consent to research trials

Background and aims In a regional Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) the research team have been recruiting to three multi-centre randomised controlled trials. The team were interested to explore parent’s preference for the research nurses wearing a uniform whilst recruiting to these trials. Method 62 questionnaires were given out to non-research PICU staff (nursing, administrative and medical staff). Multiple choice questions asked what they would prefer to see research nurses wearing when approaching parents about research. 24 questionnaires were given out to parents who had been approached about research trial participation in PICU. Multiple choice questions asked whether they would prefer to be approached for consent by a research nurse wearing a clinical nurse uniform, alternative uniform or their own clothes (pictorial representations given). Results Parental questionnaire return rate was 67%. Responding parents favoured (62%) a uniform with reasons given including ease of identification, trust and professionalism. From the options provided, only 6% chose the ‘own clothes’ option. 32% reported no preference. 31% of parents felt that what the nurse was wearing was likely to have influenced their decision to give their consent, no information was given as to whether this would be in a positive or negative way. Staff questionnaire return rate was 73%. 67% preferred a uniform, 22% an ‘own clothes’ option and 11% reporting no preference. Conclusion The results display a preference towards research nurses wearing a uniform, however there is no agreement as to what that uniform should be. Further research would be needed to conclude whether the wearing of a uniform influences parental decision to consent for their child to participate in research trials and before any recommendations can be made for practice.
Sleep duration and its impact on adherence in adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Background Adherence to the type 1 diabetes (T1D) regimen, while predictive of glycemic control, decreases during adolescence. For adolescents, attaining adequate sleep is an additional challenge. This study evaluates the impact of sleep on adherence in teens with T1D. Subjects Forty-five adolescents aged 12–18 yr, with T1D for at least 6 months while on insulin pump therapy. Methods Adolescents logged their sleep on a written diary for 2 wk. Corresponding insulin pump/glucometer downloads as well as sleep habit questionnaires were also obtained. Results Data from 20 girls and 25 boys, with a mean age of 15 ± 1.6 yr and mean glycated hemoglobin of 8.7 ± 1.1% (72 mmol/mol), were analyzed. Overall, average sleep was 8.6 ± 0.9 h per night. Sleep durations were compared to the next day's frequency of self-monitored blood glucose (SMBG) and total daily insulin bolus frequency. Associations were found between sleep duration and youths' SMBG and insulin bolus frequencies (p < 0.03 and p < 0.001, respectively). Specifically, a 15- and 20-min increase in sleep was associated with one additional SMBG check and one additional insulin bolus, respectively. Conclusion Analyses suggest an associated increase in T1D self-management behaviors in youths with increased sleep duration. These findings highlight the importance of assessing sleep in clinical practice, and encourage further research to examine effective strategies to address sleep hygiene as part of routine diabetes management.
The Effect of Angiotensin II Infusion on Plasma Catecholamines in the Conscious Rabbit

Plasma levels of norepinephrine, epinephrine, and dopamine were measured in conscious, male rabbits. Twenty-minute infusions of 5, 50, and 500 ng/kg/min angiotensin II elevated mean arterial blood pressure by 8 (P less than 0.05), 23 (P less than 0.01), and 33 mm Hg (P less than 0.01), respectively. Plasma catecholamines were unchanged at all levels of angiotensin II infusion except epinephrine which rose from 15 +/- 3 to 52 +/- 17 pg/ml at 500 ng/kg/min. These data suggest an action of the peptide at the adrenal medulla but offer no evidence of a generalized stimulation discharge by angiotensin II.
Evaluating stream health based environmental justice model performance at different spatial scales

Summary This study evaluated the effects of spatial resolution on environmental justice analysis concerning stream health. The Saginaw River Basin in Michigan was selected since it is an area of concern in the Great Lakes basin. Three Bayesian Conditional Autoregressive (CAR) models (ordinary regression, weighted regression and spatial) were developed for each stream health measure based on 17 socioeconomic and physiographical variables at three census levels. For all stream health measures, spatial models had better performance compared to the two non-spatial ones at the census tract and block group levels. Meanwhile no spatial dependency was found at the county level. Multilevel Bayesian CAR models were also developed to understand the spatial dependency at the three levels. Results showed that considering level interactions improved models’ prediction. Residual plots also showed that models developed at the block group and census tract (in contrary to county level models) are able to capture spatial variations.
Analysis of plague surveillance results in Longlin county,Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region,China from 2000 to 2011

Objective To analyze the plague surveillance results in Longlin county,Guangxi,China from 2000 to 2011,and to provide a basis for the prevention and control of plague.Methods Analytic epidemiology and medical statistics were used for the statistics,analysis,and evaluation of the plague surveillance results in Longlin from 2000 to 2011.Results During the past 12 years,a total of 6064 rats,belonging to 11 species in 3 families of 2 orders,were caught,with an annual mean rat density of 3.21%,and Rattus tanezumi acted as the dominant species;a total of 5865 rat fleas,belonging to 6 species,were collected,with an annual mean rat flea-carrying rate of 26.59% and a mean flea index of 0.97,and Xenopsylla cheopis was the dominant species.A total of 6030 rat samples were bred,and 10 Yersinia pestis strains were isolated.Indirect hemagglutination test was used to examine 3663 rat sera and 1792 indicator animal sera.Two positive rat sera(0.05%) and 24 positive indicator animal sera(1.34%) were obtained.Conclusion There is natural epidemic focus of R.tanezumi in Longlin county,according to the analysis considering geography,host animals,vector fleas,pathogens,and other factors.Plague surveillance must be strengthened to prevent the prevalence of plague.
Analyze of Health Promotion to Increase Case Finding of Smear Positive Tuberculosis

OBJECTIVE To explore the impact of health promotion activities to increase case of smear positive tuberculosis.METHODS The following health promotion measures were carried out in 9 counties from Jan 2005 to Dec 2006 in Yuxi,which includes holding training classes for all kinds of pulmonary tuberculosis,flyers/posters,TV or radio programs,propaganda columns,street propaganda etc,collecting patients information and analyzing concerned target.RESULTS From 2005 to 2006,13 928 suspects sought service and 1 042 new smear positive TB cases were detected.The new smear positive registration rate increased from 17.17/105 to 25.19/105.Health investigation shows that the suspects are most from the training doctors who attained the information,covering 68.5 percent,in addition,23 percent of the patients are those who are active seeking medical service patients.The results show that the rate of TB suspects seeking medical service and the registration rate of smear positive TB were significantly higher than those in the same durntion.CONCLUSION The implementation of health promotion acties can increase the fate of TB suspects seeking medical selvice and case detection rate of smear positive tuberculosis,which plays an important role for pulmonary tuberculosis control.
Influence of Early-Life Environmental Exposures on Immune Function Across the Life Span

As described in other chapters of this book, the function of the mature, fully formed immune system can be altered by a variety of environmental factors. While it is important to understand how these exposures modulate the immune system, an understudied aspect of how the environment shapes the immune system is the impact of exposures during development on the way the immune system functions later in life. Early life is a particularly susceptible time window for environmental exposures, because this is when the development and programming of multiple organs systems occurs (Nat Struct Mol Biol 20(3):282–289, 2013). In fact, some studies have shown that exposures during development lead to persistent changes in the function of other organ systems. Moreover, exposures during critical developmental periods lead to potentially permanent functional differences, as opposed to the generally transient changes that occurs after exposures during adulthood (Environ Health Perspect 120(10):1353–1361, 2012). Herein, we review the current evidence that the function of the immune system is sensitive to perturbation by developmental exposure to environmental agents. For some compounds, there is strong evidence that there are persistent immune defects associated with developmental exposures. For others, there are a handful of studies that suggest there may be immune consequences of developmental exposures. However, for many exposures little or nothing is known about whether developmental exposure has immunomodulatory effects that persist later in life. To provide an overview of current knowledge, we divide these exposures into five groups: pollutants for which a specific cellular receptor has been identified, smoke, heavy metals, pharmaceuticals, and maternal diet. Clearly, some of these agents contain a mixture of components, and metabolites of these agents may fall in to more than one category. Thus, in some situations the developing immune system is likely exposed to multiple environmental insults simultaneously. However, for brevity they are discussed in one place, acknowledging that these categories are not mutually exclusive.
The Direction Générale de la Santé today

The Direction generale de la sante, created fifty years ago as part of the French Ministry of Health, is devoted to public health. Among the current challenges which the Direction generale de la sante must meet are various types of potential health crisis, preparing the country for major health threats, reinforcing disease prevention and risk management, coordinating health institutions at the national level, and promoting French health policies within Europe and internationally.
Amphiphilic hydroxyalkyl cellulose derivatives for amorphous solid dispersion prepared by olefin cross-metathesis

Olefin cross-metathesis (CM) has enabled design and synthesis of diverse, amphiphilic cellulose ether derivatives (e.g. of ethyl and methyl cellulose). In this paper, hydroxyalkyl cellulose was selected as a hydrophilic starting material, with the additional advantage that it has DS (OH) 3.0 that allows targeting of a full range of DS of selected functional groups. Hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) was first etherified with 5-bromopent-1-ene to attach olefin “handles” for metathesis, whereby control of molar ratios of sodium hydride and 5-bromopent-1-ene permits full DS control of appended olefin. These olefin-terminated HPC ethers then were subjected to CM with acrylic acid and different acrylates, followed by diimide hydrogenation to reduce the resulting α,β-unsaturation. NMR and FT-IR spectroscopies were useful tools for following reaction progress. One of the product carboxyl-functionalized HPC derivatives, designated HPC-Pen106-AA-H, showed high promise as a crystallization inhibitor of the antiviral drug telaprevir. Its nucleation-induction inhibitory ability was compared to those of commercial controls, HPC and HPMCAS. All three polymers were very effective for inhibiting telaprevir crystallization, increasing induction time up to 8-fold. HPC did not effectively prevent amorphous particle growth, whereas the carboxyl-containing HPC-Pen106-AA-H and HPMCAS were able to prevent formation of agglomerates of amorphous drugs.
Oocytes from small and large follicles exhibit similar development competence following goat cloning despite their differences in meiotic and cytoplasmic maturation.

Reduced developmental competence after IVF has been reported using oocyte derived from small follicles in several species including cattle, sheep, and goats. No information is currently available about the effect of follicle size of the cytoplast donor on in vivo development after somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) in goats. Oocytes collected from large (≥3 mm) and small follicles (<3 mm) were examined for maturation and in vivo developmental competence after SCNT. Significantly greater maturation rate was observed in oocytes derived from large follicles compared with that of small follicles (51.6% and 33.7%, P < 0.05). Greater percent of large follicle oocytes exhibited a low glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity at germinal vesicle stage compared with small follicle oocytes (54.9% and 38.7%, P < 0.05). Relative mRNA expression analysis of 48 genes associated with embryonic and fetal development revealed that three genes (MATER, IGF2R, and GRB10) had higher level of expression in metaphase II oocytes from large follicles compared with oocytes from small follicles. Nevertheless, no difference was observed in pregnancy rates (33.3% vs. 47.1%) and birth rates (22.2% vs. 16.7%) after SCNT between the large and small follicle groups). These results indicate that metaphase II cytoplasts from small and large follicles have similar developmental competence when used in goat SCNT.
Development of a unified simulation methodology for electric networks using sliding modes

A unified simulation methodology for electric networks using sliding mode theory and Simulink/MATLAB is developed in this paper. In particular, large networks with linear, time-invariant elements such as resistances, capacitors and inductances are considered. By this approach, the need to solve a set of both algebraic and differential equations is eliminated and the problem is reduced to solving a set of only differential equations. The methodology is unified and networks which are dynamic and static with respect to current are considered.
Non-Native Metal Ion Reveals the Role of Electrostatics in Synaptotagmin 1-Membrane Interactions.

C2 domains are independently folded modules that often target their host proteins to anionic membranes in a Ca2+-dependent manner. In these cases, membrane association is triggered by Ca2+ binding to the negatively charged loop region of the C2 domain. Here, we used a non-native metal ion, Cd2+, in lieu of Ca2+ to gain insight into the contributions made by long-range Coulombic interactions and direct metal ion-lipid bridging to membrane binding. Using X-ray crystallography, NMR, Forster resonance energy transfer, and vesicle cosedimentation assays, we demonstrate that, although Cd2+ binds to the loop region of C2A/B domains of synaptotagmin 1 with high affinity, long-range Coulombic interactions are too weak to support membrane binding of individual domains. We attribute this behavior to two factors: the stoichiometry of Cd2+ binding to the loop regions of the C2A and C2B domains and the impaired ability of Cd2+ to directly coordinate the lipids. In contrast, electron paramagnetic resonance experiments r...
Gaussian and non-Gaussian fluctuations in pure classical fluids

The particle number, energy, and volume probability distributions in the canonical, isothermal-isobaric, grand canonical, and isobaric-isenthalpic ensembles are investigated. In particular, we consider Gaussian and non-Gaussian behavior and formulate the results in terms of a single expression valid for all the ensembles employing common, experimentally accessible, thermodynamic derivatives. This is achieved using Fluctuation Solution Theory to help manipulate derivatives of the entropy. The properties of the distributions are then investigated using available equations of state for fluid water and argon. Purely Gaussian behavior is not observed for any of the state points considered here. A set of simple measures, involving thermodynamic derivatives, indicating non-Gaussian behavior is proposed. A general expression, valid in the high temperature limit, for small energy fluctuations in the canonical ensemble is provided.
Functional diversity response to hardwood forest management varies across taxa and spatial scales

Contemporary forest management offers a trade-off between the potential positive effects of habitat heterogeneity on biodiversity, and the potential harm to mature forest communities caused by habitat loss and perforation of the forest canopy. While the response of taxonomic diversity to forest management has received a great deal of scrutiny, the response of functional diversity is largely unexplored. However, functional diversity may represent a more direct link between biodiversity and ecosystem function. To examine how forest management affects diversity at multiple spatial scales, we analyzed a long-term data set that captured changes in taxonomic and functional diversity of moths (Lepidoptera), longhorned beetles (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae), and breeding birds in response to contemporary silvicultural systems in oak-hickory hardwood forests. We used these data sets to address the following questions: how do even- and uneven-aged silvicultural systems affect taxonomic and functional diversity at the scale of managed landscapes compared to the individual harvested and unharvested forest patches that comprise the landscapes, and how do these silvicultural systems affect the functional similarity of assemblages at the scale of managed landscapes and patches? Due to increased heterogeneity within landscapes, we expected even-aged silviculture to increase and uneven-aged silviculture to decrease functional diversity at the landscape level regardless of impacts at the patch level. Functional diversity responses were taxon-specific with respect to the direction of change and time since harvest. Responses were also consistent across patch and landscape levels within each taxon. Moth assemblage species richness, functional richness, and functional divergence were negatively affected by harvesting, with stronger effects resulting from uneven-aged than even-aged management. Longhorned beetle assemblages exhibited a peak in species richness two years after harvesting, while functional diversity metrics did not differ between harvested and unharvested patches and managed landscapes. The species and functional richness of breeding bird assemblages increased in response to harvesting with more persistent effects in uneven- than in even-aged managed landscapes. For moth and bird assemblages, species turnover was driven by species with more extreme trait combinations. Our study highlights the variability of multi-taxon functional diversity in response to forest management across multiple spatial scales.
Integrating phase change materials into concrete through microencapsulation using cenospheres

Abstract Phase change materials (PCMs) can enhance the building energy efficiency through thermal energy storage and thermal regulation. Microencapsulated PCMs (MEPCMs) provide a better utilization of PCMs with building materials. This study proposes a novel method to encapsulate PCMs into cenospheres which are hollow fly ash particles generated in coal burning power plants with size ranging from a few micrometers to hundreds of micrometers. The shell of the cenosphere inherently has some small pores which are sealed by a thin layer of glass-crystalline film. By removing this film through chemical etching, these holes can be exposed, providing paths for PCMs moving into the internal void of cenospheres. A thin layer of silica is coated on the PCM loaded cenospheres to prevent the possible leakage of liquid PCMs. The produced PCM microcapsules are referred to as CenoPCM, which can be directly added into traditional construction and building materials such as concrete to produce thermally active concrete. Prototype thermally active cement mortar integrated with the produced CenoPCM capsules have also been manufactured and characterized for its mechanical and microstructural properties. The characterizations showed that there was only minor reduction in strength and the mortar remained strong enough for building application. From this work, it is found that the produced CenoPCM capsules have great potential to be added into construction materials for reducing energy consumptions in buildings.
In vivo–generated thrombin and plasmin do not activate the complement system in baboons

Sepsis concurrently activates both coagulation and complement systems. Although complement activation by bacteria is well documented, work in mice and in vitro suggests that coagulation proteases can directly cleave complement proteins. We aimed to determine whether generation of coagulation proteases in vivo can activate the complement cascade in 2 highly coagulopathic models. We compared temporal changes in activation biomarkers of coagulation (thrombin-antithrombin [TAT]), fibrinolysis (plasmin-antiplasmin [PAP]), and complement (C3b, C5a, C5b-9) in baboons infused with factor Xa (FXa) and phospholipids (FXa/phosphatidylcholine-phosphatidylserine [PCPS]) vs LD100 Escherichia coli We found that, albeit with different timing, both FXa/PCPS and E coli infusion led to robust thrombin and plasmin generation. Conversely, only E coli challenge activated the complement system, reaching a maximum at 2 hours postchallenge during the peaks of lipopolysaccharide and bacteremia but not of TAT and PAP. Despite inducing a strong burst of thrombin and plasmin, FXa/PCPS infusion did not produce measurable levels of complement activation in vivo. Similarly, ex vivo incubation of baboon serum with thrombin, plasmin, or FXa did not show noticeable complement cleavage unless supraphysiologic amounts of enzymes were used. Our results suggest that in vivo-generated thrombin and plasmin do not directly activate the complement in nonhuman primates.
The Impact of Using Non-Birth Sex on the Interpretation of Spirometry Data in Subjects With Air-Flow Obstruction.

BACKGROUND: Sex is an important determinant of lung capacity and function. This study examined the impact of using non-birth sex on the interpretation of spirometry data in transgender subjects with air-flow obstruction. METHODS: This study was a retrospective analysis of anonymous spirometry data. Eighty adult male and 80 adult female subjects were chosen from the database via random sampling. FVC, FEV 1 , and FEV 1 /FVC were collected and analyzed. Differences in percent of predicted, Z scores, classification of disease severity, and the incidence of a value migrating above or below the lower limit of normal between sex assignments were examined. RESULTS: For born male subjects, percent of predicted for FVC and FEV 1 were significantly higher when the female sex was used: 100.5% versus 118.5% and 78% versus 91.5%, respectively ( P 1 /FVC Z score was −2.53 for male sex and −2.65 for female sex ( P = .004). The presence of obstruction was not affected by sex assignment. Use of non-birth sex moved some FVC and FEV 1 data above the lower limit of normal and improved severity classification in others. For born female subjects, percent of predicted for FVC and FEV 1 were significantly lower when the male sex was used: 102% versus 87.5% and 81.5% versus 70.5%, respectively ( P 1 /FVC Z score was −2.17 for female sex and −2.12 for male sex ( P 1 /FVC normalized when male sex was used. Use of non-birth sex moved some FVC and FEV 1 data below the lower limit of normal and worsened severity classification in others. In total, using the non-birth sex affected spirometry interpretation in 45% of born male subjects and 70% of born female subjects. CONCLUSIONS: In transgender subjects with air-flow obstruction, using non-birth sex to calculate predicted spirometry values may have a significant impact on test interpretation and place these patients at risk for misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment.
Challenges and techniques for presurgical brain mapping with functional MRI

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is increasingly used for preoperative counseling and planning, and intraoperative guidance for tumor resection in the eloquent cortex. Although there have been improvements in image resolution and artifact correction, there are still limitations of this modality. In this review, we discuss clinical fMRI's applications, limitations and potential solutions. These limitations depend on the following parameters: foundations of fMRI, physiologic effects of the disease, distinctions between clinical and research fMRI, and the design of the fMRI study. We also compare fMRI to other brain mapping modalities which should be considered as alternatives or adjuncts when appropriate, and discuss intraoperative use and validation of fMRI. These concepts direct the clinical application of fMRI in neurosurgical patients.