cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A rapid method to estimate Westergren sedimentation rates

The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is a nonspecific but simple and inexpensive test that was introduced into medical practice in 1897. Although it is commonly utilized in the diagnosis and follow-up of various clinical conditions, ESR has several limitations including the required 60 min settling time for the test. Herein we introduce a novel use for a commercially available computerized tube viscometer that allows the accurate prediction of human Westergren ESR rates in as little as 4 min. Owing to an initial pressure gradient, blood moves between two vertical tubes through a horizontal small-bore tube and the top of the red blood cell (RBC) column in each vertical tube is monitored continuously with an accuracy of 0.083 mm. Using data from the final minute of a blood viscosity measurement, a sedimentation index (SI) was calculated and correlated with results from the conventional Westergren ESR test. To date, samples from 119 human subjects have been studied and our results indicate a strong correlation between SI and ESR values (R2=0.92). In addition, we found a close association between SI and RBC aggregation indices as determined by an automated RBC aggregometer (R2=0.71). Determining SI on human blood is rapid, requires no special training and has minimal biohazard risk, thus allowing physicians to rapidly screen for individuals with elevated ESR and to monitor therapeutic responses.
Diversity of recent planktonic foraminifera in the southern Indian Ocean and Late Pleistocene paleotemperatures

Planktonic foraminiferal assemblages have been examined in 25 trigger core top samples and 51 piston core top samples collected between latitudes 28° S and 55° S and longitudes 79° E and 120° E from the southern Indian Ocean during cruises of the U.S.N.S. Eltanin. Samples taken from water depths exceeding 4000 m and/or showing evidence of calcium carbonate dissolution were eliminated from further analysis. The final piston core data set consists of 34 samples; the trigger core data set containing 21 samples. A close relationship exists between changes in the planktonic foraminiferal assemblages in the surface sediments and surface water temperatures. Species diversity values were computed for each of the core top assemblages using the Shannon-Wiener Index and the Brillouin Index, each of which takes into consideration the number of species and the proportionment of individuals among the species. The Shannon and Brillouin diversity values for all samples are positively correlated (correlation coefficient (r) = +.999). Regression analysis of latitude versus Shannon diversity values in the trigger core samples clearly shows a decrease in diversity with increasing latitude (r = −.979). Furthermore, a strong correlation (r = +.977) exists between decreasing species diversity (Shannon) and decreasing average summer-winter temperature of the overlying surface waters. A paleotemperature equation derived from the relationship of diversity in trigger core samples and surface water temperature was used to generate paleotemperature curves for five trigger cores and a 6 m piston core of Late Pleistocene age, located beneath the present position of the Subtropical Convergence. A 7–8° C temperature range is suggested between the interglacial and glacial episodes in this Late Pleistocene sequence, and probably reflects latitudinal shifts of the Subtropical Convergence and Australasian Front during the Late Pleistocene.
Anti-infective drugs in obstetrics and gynecology.

Abstract Prophylactic and therapeutic options for reproductive infections are continually shifting. In this review, highlights from the recent literature of anti-infective drugs in obstetrics and gynecology are presented. Several articles offer new insights into the basic pathophysiology of common infections. Others provide novel strategies in prophylaxis for women with recurrent infections and for those undergoing surgical procedures. In the therapy arena, refinements in dosing schedules favor lower doses and shorter courses for some infections. Intriguing data regarding infrequently discussed infectious processes are presented. Finally, as new, more sophisticated agents flood the market, they are compared against the gold standards of treatment.
Diet and Exercise in Obese Subjects: Self-Report Versus Controlled Measurements

Past decades have witnessed a continuing discussion on the relative role of food intake in the pathogenesis of obesity. Some observers argue that overeating is paramount; others claim that the obese are metabolically more efficient in energy utilization, and thus may not need as much food. There is a considerable amount of evidence that big people do need more food than those who are smaller and thinner. However, a recent study using advanced techniques has revealed a clear discrepancy between selfreported and actual energy intake and selfreported and actual physical activity in obese subjects, especially those who had great difficulty in losing weight by dietary means.
On-line post-capillary affinity detection of immunoglobulin G subclasses and monoclonal antibody variants for capillary electrophoresis.

Abstract Human immunoglobulin G (IgG) subclasses each play a unique role in an immune response to foreign antigens. Three of the human IgG subclasses have distinct electrophoretic mobilities and are resolved by capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE). A post-capillary reactor is constructed to allow on-line addition of fragment B (of protein A)-fluorescein to form affinity complexes with separated IgG subclasses. Post-capillary affinity detection provides selective identification of human IgG subclasses and illustrates the effect of affinity binding constant on detection sensitivity. Additionally, post-capillary affinity detection for CZE facilitates rapid and selective heterogeneity analysis of mouse monoclonal anti-(human-α1-antitrypsin) and anti-human follicle stimulating hormone in complex sample matrices. A constant mobility difference is observed between the antibody isoforms, likely the result of charge heterogeneity due to deamination, degradation or variation in sialic acid content.
The Lost Squares of Dr. Franklin: Ben Franklin's Missing Squares and the Secret of the Magic Circle

(2001). The Lost Squares of Dr. Franklin: Ben Franklin's Missing Squares and the Secret of the Magic Circle. The American Mathematical Monthly: Vol. 108, No. 6, pp. 489-511.
Central corneal pachymetry and visual field progression in patients with open-angle glaucoma.

Abstract Purpose To investigate the association between corneal pachymetry and visual field progression in patients with chronic open-angle glaucoma. Design Retrospective case–control study. Participants Eighty-eight patients with primary open-angle glaucoma, pseudoexfoliative glaucoma, pigmentary glaucoma, or normal-tension glaucoma, followed for an average of 8 years, who had visual field loss and progression as defined by modified Anderson criteria. Cases with progression were matched for race, diagnosis, and age at pachymetry with controls who did not have progression. Methods Progression was defined by use of the modified Anderson criteria. Central corneal thickness (CCT) was determined by ultrasound pachymetry. Main outcome measures Visual field progression and corneal pachymetry. Results The mean CCT in patients with visual field progression was significantly lower than the mean CCT in patients who did not progress (529±36 μm vs. 547±35 μm; P = 0.02). Those with thinner CCT were more likely to progress than those with thicker CCT as identified by Cox proportional hazards regression analysis ( P = 0.01; hazard ratio, 1.44 for a 40-μm thinner CCT; 95% confidence interval, 1.12–1.80), and CCT was the only risk factor identified to be significantly associated with visual field progression. Conclusions In this case–control patient population, visual field progression in patients with open-angle glaucoma was significantly associated with thinner CCT.
Using input minimization to train a cerebellar model to simulate regulation of smooth pursuit

Cerebellar learning appears to be driven by motor error, but whether or not error signals are provided by climbing fibers (CFs) remains a matter of controversy. Here we show that a model of the cerebellum can be trained to simulate the regulation of smooth pursuit eye movements by minimizing its inputs from parallel fibers (PFs), which carry various signals including error and efference copy. The CF spikes act as “learn now” signals. The model can be trained to simulate the regulation of smooth pursuit of visual objects following circular or complex trajectories and provides insight into how Purkinje cells might encode pursuit parameters. In minimizing both error and efference copy, the model demonstrates how cerebellar learning through PF input minimization (InMin) can make movements more accurate and more efficient. An experimental test is derived that would distinguish InMin from other models of cerebellar learning which assume that CFs carry error signals.
Modification by hemochromatosis gene polymorphisms of the association between traffic-related air pollution and cognition in older men: a cohort study

Previous studies found effect modification of associations between traffic-related air pollution and cardiovascular outcomes by polymorphisms in the hemochromatosis gene (HFE). As traffic-related air pollution may impact cognition through effects on cardiovascular health or through mechanisms which may also influence cardiovascular outcomes, we hypothesized that HFE polymorphisms would also modify a previously observed association between traffic-related air pollution exposure and cognition in older men. We considered data from 628 participants of the VA Normative Aging Study. We estimated long term exposure to black carbon (BC), a marker of traffic related air pollution, using a spatio-temporal land use regression model. We assessed cognition using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), a test of global function, and performance on a battery of other tests, covering a wide range of domains. We investigated whether variants of HFE C282Y and H63D modified the association between BC and having a low MMSE score using logistic models with generalized estimating equations and multiplicative interaction terms. Similarly, we assessed whether HFE variants modified the association between BC and performance on the cognitive battery using linear mixed models with multiplicative interaction terms. Our results suggest modification of the BC-cognition association by HFE C282Y, although the test of interaction did not achieve statistical significance. In multivariable-adjusted models, participants who lacked a HFE C282Y variant (CC) exhibited an adverse association between BC and total cognition z-score (beta for a doubling in BC concentration: -0.061, 95% CI: -0.115, -0.007), while we did not observe an association in participants with at least one variant genotype (CY or YY) (beta for a doubling in BC concentration: 0.073, 95% CI: -0.081, 0.228; p-value for interaction: 0.11). The pattern of association was similar for analyses considering performance on the Mini-Mental State Examination. There was little evidence to support effect modification of the BC-cognition association by the HFE H63D genotype. Our data suggest that older adults who lack an HFE C282Y variant may be more susceptible to an adverse effect of traffic-related air pollution exposure on cognition. This finding and the proposed biological mechanism require confirmation.
A single element light amplifier using sintered cadium selenide

The use of photoconductive sintered cadium selenide as the control element in a light amplifier offers the possibility of improved gain and speed of response. Such a single element light amplifier has been made and tested. The results show that moderate gains with high output luminance are possible with speeds in the range of moving pictures. Very high gains are possible if slow response can be tolerated. Measurements were made over a range of operating frequencies and for various input levels. Data on rise time, decay time and gain for tungsten-light input are given in curve form. From these curves the operating range and input-output light levels can be determined for picture reproduction.
A two-year experience with cromolyn sodium in children with asthma.

Godfrey et UP reported on a 3- to 5-year follow-up in a group of children from England on long term cromolyn sodium therapy. The following is our experience with a group of 30 children with asthma from an inner city population treated with cromolyn sodium for at least two years. Results Thirty of the thirty-six children were considered “good responders” to cromolyn sodium, six weeks after starting therapy. Of the thirty children who were good responders, 23 (70.6%) at 6 months, 16 (53.3%) at 12 months, 12 (40%) at 18 months and 8 (26.6%) at 24 months (Table 11) were considered to be responding well to cromolyn sodium therapy. All the children in the group continued to be seen at the asthma clinic. At the end of 24 months, out of the twenty-two children who were not responding, three children needed to be placed on topical steroids and all the other nineteen children needed large doses of bronchodilators. There were no significant side effects seen from the drug in any of the children.
Impact of a Stretch Strategy on Knowledge Creation in Quality Improvement Projects

This study develops and tests a framework about how a stretch strategy affects knowledge creation in quality improvement projects. First, we found that sense of challenge in a project team was positively associated with the level of knowledge creation. This result controlled for two important contextual factors-psychological safety and learning behaviors-that also influenced knowledge creation in teams. Second, we studied two antecedents of sense of challenge and found problem-driven gap, which reflected the intensity in problem solving, positively affected sense of challenge; but performance-driven gap, which captured the relative difference between current and targeted performances, showed insignificant effect on sense of challenge. Yet performance-driven gap interacted synergistically with problem-driven gap in positively affecting sense of challenge. When the intended purpose of a stretch strategy is to encourage innovation and knowledge creation, our findings suggest an organization should focus on motivating a strong sense of challenge among organizational members through problem solving. Without a problem solving focus, the common practice of setting high performance goals to stretch people can be futile and ineffective.
Fibril Structure of Human Islet Amyloid Polypeptide

Misfolding and amyloid fibril formation by human islet amyloid polypeptide (hIAPP) are thought to be important in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes, but the structures of the misfolded forms remain poorly understood. Here we developed an approach that combines site-directed spin labeling with continuous wave and pulsed EPR to investigate local secondary structure and to determine the relative orientation of the secondary structure elements with respect to each other. These data indicated that individual hIAPP molecules take up a hairpin fold within the fibril. This fold contains two β-strands that are much farther apart than expected from previous models. Atomistic structural models were obtained using computational refinement with EPR data as constraints. The resulting family of structures exhibited a left-handed helical twist, in agreement with the twisted morphology observed by electron microscopy. The fibril protofilaments contain stacked hIAPP monomers that form opposing β-sheets that twist around each other. The two β-strands of the monomer adopt out-of-plane positions and are staggered by about three peptide layers (∼15 Å). These results provide a mechanism for hIAPP fibril formation and could explain the remarkable stability of the fibrils. Thus, the structural model serves as a starting point for understanding and preventing hIAPP misfolding.
Shape matching and anisotropy

With recent improvements in methods for the acquisition and rendering of 3D models, the need for retrieval of models has gained prominence in the graphics and vision communities. A variety of methods have been proposed that enable the efficient querying of model repositories for a desired 3D shape. Many of these methods use a 3D model as a query and attempt to retrieve models from the database that have a similar shape.In this paper we consider the implications of anisotropy on the shape matching paradigm. In particular, we propose a novel method for matching 3D models that factors the shape matching equation as the disjoint outer product of anisotropy and geometric comparisons. We provide a general method for computing the factored similarity metric and show how this approach can be applied to improve the matching performance of many existing shape matching methods.
Category width and decision making in perception.

The cognitive dimension called category width may be related to decision-making behavior in the following way: broad categorizers tend to make more Type I errors while narrow categorizers are more inclined to make Type II errors. This contention was investigated using measures of decision-making performance on an auditory detection task. No correlations obtained between category-width measures and decision measures for 43 female Ss. However, for 38 male Ss, the correlation between category-width score and Type I error rate was significant as predicted. The correlation between category-width scores and over-all correct decision rate was also significant. A substantial relationship was also found between quantitative aptitude and category-width scores and factor scores for the two category-width factors for males. For women, quantitative aptitude did not seem to be related to category-width measures.
Caspase-3 gene knockout defines cell lineage specificity for programmed cell death signaling in the ovary.

Previous studies have proposed the involvement of caspase-3, a downstream executioner enzyme common to many paradigms of programmed cell death (PCD), in mediating the apoptosis of both germ and somatic cells in the ovary. Herein we used caspase-3 gene knockout mice to directly test for the functional requirement of this protease in oocyte and/or granulosa cell demise. Using both in vivo and in vitro approaches, we determined that oocyte death initiated as a result of either developmental cues or pathological insults was unaffected by the absence of caspase-3. However, granulosa cells of degenerating antral follicles in both mouse and human ovaries showed a strong immunoreaction using an antibody raised against the cleaved (activated) form of caspase-3. Furthermore, caspase-3 mutant female mice possessed aberrant atretic follicles containing granulosa cells that failed to be eliminated by apoptosis, as confirmed by TUNEL (terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxy-UTP nick end labeling) analysis ...
Relationship of number of seizures recorded on video-EEG to surgical outcome in refractory medial temporal lobe epilepsy.

INTRODUCTION: Surgical planning for refractory medial temporal lobe epilepsy (rMTLE) relies on seizure localization by ictal electroencephalography (EEG). Multiple factors impact the number of seizures recorded. We evaluated whether seizure freedom correlated to the number of seizures recorded, and the related factors. METHODS: We collected data for 32 patients with rMTLE who underwent anterior temporal lobectomy. Primary analysis evaluated number of seizures captured as a predictor of surgical outcome. Subsequent analyses explored factors that may seizure number. RESULTS: Number of seizures recorded did not predict seizure freedom. More seizures were recorded with more days of seizure occurrence (p<0.001), seizure clusters (p<0.011) and poorly localized seizures (PLSz) (p=0.004). Regression modeling showed a trend for subjects with fewer recorded poorly localized seizures to have better surgical outcome (p=0.052). CONCLUSIONS: Total number of recorded seizures does not predict surgical outcome. Patients with more PLSz may have worse outcome.
A common interface for humanoid simulation and hardware

Humanoid robotics development often depends on simulation and prototypes for new walking algorithms. The advantages of simulation such as low cost and risk make repeated experiments and development more straightforward. However, real world implementation can require extensive porting to move from a simulation environment to a hardware platform. This tedious task can be a huge time sink that drastically slows development cycles. This paper describes a way to eliminate this bottleneck. By developing standardized protocols for motors and sensors, a software controller can communicate with both platforms using the same interface.
Interactions between obesity, parental history of hypertension, and age on prevalent hypertension: the People's Republic of China Study.

Age, family history, and body mass index (BMI) influence the prevalence of hypertension, but very little is known about the interplay of these factors in Chinese populations. The authors examined this issue in Chinese adults (n = 4104) in the People’s Republic of China Study. In young adults (24-39 years), the prevalence of hypertension/1000 persons (95% confidence interval [CI]) at the referent BMI was greater among subjects with a parental history of hypertension (35; 15-54) compared with those without (7; 3-11). Among middle-aged (40-71 years) adults, the prevalence of hypertension was similar regardless of parental history; however, the effect of BMI was modified by parental history status. For example, at BMI = 25 kg/m2, the prevalence difference/1000 persons was 375 (95% CI = 245-506) and 97 (95% CI = 51-144) among subjects with and without a parental history, respectively. These large differences call for further investigation of the genetic and environmental factors that could be driving this inte...
On How Theoretical Analyses in Ecology can Enable Environmental Problem-Solving

Environmental advisory institutions around the world operate under the assumption that theoretical ecological models (TEMs) can guide decision-making about environmental policy and natural resource management. At the same time, leading ecologists and philosophers continue to point out that it is unclear exactly how such models can usefully inform such decision-making. Much critical debate about whether and how ecology can inform practical decisions centers on confusions that are due to the fact that the workings of TEM-based research is poorly understood outside ecology. This essay addresses this issue by clarifying: what TEMs are; what limitations ecologists admit such models have; and in what general ways TEM-based analyses can inform and enable decision-making in environmental policy and resource management in spite of those limitations.
Dysplastic Nevus Syndromes

Dysplastic nevi (DMN) were first recognized as an autosomal dominant genetic marker of melanoma risk in hereditary cutaneous melanoma (HCMM) kindreds, families in which at least two melanomas have occurred. Subsequently, DMN have been identified in people with a personal but no family history of melanoma (SCMM), and with no history of melanoma. The lesions themselves may similarly be familial (FDMN) or sporadic (SDMN). A good deal is known about HCMM/FDMN kindreds and about patients with SCMM and DMN, while information about other subsets of DMN cases is slowly accumulating. Clinical evidence suggests that DMN may usually be familial when case-finding is adequate. Although DMN are potential precursors of melanoma, the risk of progression of individual lesions is low, and their major significance is as markers of prospective risk for melanoma. This risk is heterogeneous, and there are important interactions with other risk factors, especially prior personal or familial melanoma. Traditional risk factors for melanoma, such as susceptibility to sunburn and ability to tan, may be expected to interact with the DMN trait to establish groups at heterogeneous risk. These groups may be regarded as syndromes of DMN cases, but to avoid confusion, it seems more appropriate to refer to cases by descriptive labels such as FDMN with HCMM, FDMN with personal CMM, FDMN without CMM, SDMN, and so on.
Partial functional deficiency of E160D flap endonuclease-1 mutant in vitro and in vivo is due to defective cleavage of DNA substrates

To assess the roles of the active site residues Glu160 and Asp181 of human FEN-1 nuclease in binding and catalysis of the flap DNA substrate and in vivo biological processes of DNA damage and repair, five different amino acids were replaced at each site through site-directed mutagenesis of the FEN-1 gene. The mutants were then expressed in Escherichia coli and purified using a His-tag. Even though the mutants bind to the flap DNA to different degrees, most of the mutants lost flap nuclease activity with the exception of an E160D mutant. This mutant retained wild type-like binding ability, specificity, and partial catalytic activity. Detailed steady state and pre-steady state kinetic analysis revealed that the functional deficiency of this mutant was due to retardation of the endonucleolytic cleavage. When the mutant enzyme E160D was expressed in yeast, it partially complements the biological functions of the homologous yeast gene, RAD27, and reverses the hyper-temperature lethality and hypersensitivity to methyl methanesulfonate, in a manner corresponding to the in vitro activity.
The Effect of Measuring Ambulatory Blood Pressure on Nighttime Sleep and Daytime Activity—Implications for Dipping

Background and objectives: Ambulatory blood pressure (BP) monitoring is commonly used to assess the circadian pattern of BP. Circadian BP pattern is influenced by physical activity and sleep cycle. The effect of BP monitoring itself on the level of physical activity and sleep remains unknown. If BP monitoring affects these parameters, then monitoring itself may influence the circadian BP pattern. Design, setting, participants, & measurements: To assess the effect of ambulatory BP monitoring on sleep duration, sleep efficiency, and daytime activity, we measured physical activity using wrist actigraphy in 103 veterans with chronic kidney disease. After 6 to 7 days of continuous activity monitoring, participants underwent ambulatory BP monitoring with simultaneous actigraphy. The above experiment was repeated after 1 mo. Results: Among the top tertile of patients (most sleep), when wearing ambulatory BP patients spent less time in bed at night (−92 min, P < 0.0001), were less asleep during those hours (−98 min, P < 0.0001), and had reduced sleep efficiency (82% versus 77%, −5% P = 0.02). On the day of ambulatory BP monitoring, patients were more sedentary during waking hours (+27 minutes, P = 0.002). During ambulatory BP monitoring, waking after sleep onset more than median was associated with greater odds for nondipping (odds ratio 10.5, P = 0.008). Conclusions: Ambulatory BP monitoring is associated with disturbed sleep and reduced physical activity, characteristics that influence dipping. Ambulatory BP monitoring may itself induce nondipping and may thus mitigate the prognostic significance of the dipping phenomenon.
Deficiency of the fifth component of complement in mice with an inherited complement defect.

A strain of rabbits with an inherited complement deficiency was shown to lack the sixth component of the hemolytic complement system. A method was elaborated for the partial purification of this component from normal rabbit serum. Upon injection of partially purified rabbit C'6 into C'6-deficient animals, an antibody was obtained which specifically inhibited the hemolytic activity of C'6. The data suggest that C'6-deficient serum either lacks the C'6 molecule or contains it in a chemically modified and inactive form.
Stratigraphy and Structure of Parras Basin and Adjacent Areas of Northeastern Mexico: ABSTRACT

The Parras basin, in southern Coahuila and western Nuevo Leon, contains 15,000-20,000 feet of Upper Cretaceous and lower Tertiary terrigenous clastic sediments. From 5,000-7,000 feet of Lower Cretaceous carbonate rocks and 6,000-10,000 feet of Triassic and (or) Jurassic evaporites, carbonate, and terrigenous clastic rocks flank parts of the basin and underlie large areas within the basin. The Triassic and (or) Jurassic sedimentary rocks exhibit complex facies relations. Lower Cretaceous carbonate rocks are remarkably uniform over large areas of northeastern Mexico. Most of the Upper Cretaceous and lower Tertiary calcareous-arenaceous-argillaceous sediments were deposited in a boot-shaped, shallow, subsiding basin between the present-day Sierra Madre Oriental and the Coahu la Platform. The Upper Cretaceous-lower Tertiary Difunta Group displays intertonguing relations between two distinct lithic types; red, non-marine, arenaceous-argillaceous End_Page 639------------------------------ strata alternate with gray to black, brackish, calcareous-arenaceous-argillaceous strata. The red formations pinch out or change facies toward the north and east in the basin. Marine deposition was continuous from Late Cretaceous to early Tertiary in the eastern part of the basin. A few redbeds grade down depositional dip into gray, marine strata. Red strata have been discovered in the Upper Cretaceous Parras Shale, which normally is a gray to black, calcareous shale, 4,000-5,000 feet thick. During Paleocene or Eocene time, the sediments of the Parras basin were deformed contemporaneously with the adjacent Sierra Madre Oriental. Deformational intensity in the Lower Cretaceous carbonate rocks of the Sierra Madre appears related to the distribution and thickness of the Minas Viejas (Jurassic?) evaporites. The type and degree of deformation in the Upper Cretaceous Parras basin is not uniform as indicated by the following: (1) overturned folds and imbricate thrusts, which probably do not extend below the Parras Shale, characterize the constricted western part of the basin; (2) broad, elongate, open folds in the southeastern part extend downward to folds in Lower Cretaceous strata; and (3) broad, open, domal folds in the northeast are related to Lower Cretaceous uplifts on the surface and at depth. End_of_Article - Last_Page 640------------
Isolation and Characterization of the 102-Kilodalton RNA-binding Protein That Binds to the 5′ and 3′ Translational Enhancers of Tobacco Mosaic Virus RNA

Abstract Tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) is a positive-sense, single-stranded RNA virus the genome of which acts as a mRNA in the cytoplasm. On infection, TMV mRNA is efficiently and selectively translated by the host translation machinery despite the lack of a poly(A) tail, which is normally required for efficient translation. Both the 68-base 5′ leader (Ω) and the 205-base 3′ untranslated region of TMV promote efficient translation. A 25-base poly(CAA) region within Ω and the upstream pseudoknot domain, a 72-base region composed of three RNA pseudoknots, are responsible for the translational regulation. We have identified, purified, and characterized a 102-kDa RNA-binding protein (p102) from wheat that binds specifically to the poly(CAA) region within Ω and the upstream pseudoknot domain within the TMV 3′ untranslated region. Polyclonal antibodies raised against wheat p102 were used to demonstrate that p102 is widely conserved in plant species. Moreover, specific RNA binding activity was detected in all plant species tested. Addition of anti-p102 antibodies to an in vitro translation lysate derived from wheat germ repressed translation, which was subsequently reversed by supplementing the lysate with p102. These findings suggest that this protein may play an important role in determining translational efficiency in plants.
Seasonal variation in carbon dioxide exchange over a Mediterranean annual grassland in California

Understanding how environmental variables affect the processes that regulate the carbon flux over grassland is critical for large-scale modeling research, since grasslands comprise almost one-third of the earth's natural vegetation. To address this issue, fluxes of CO{sub 2} (F{sub c}, flux toward the surface is negative) were measured over a Mediterranean, annual grassland in California, USA for 2 years with the eddy covariance method. To interpret the biotic and abiotic factors that modulate F{sub c} over the course of a year we decomposed net ecosystem CO{sub 2} exchange into its constituent components, ecosystem respiration (R{sub eco}) and gross primary production (GPP). Daytime R{sub eco} was extrapolated from the relationship between temperature and nighttime F{sub c} under high turbulent conditions. Then, GPP was estimated by subtracting daytime values of F{sub c} from daytime estimates of R{sub eco}. Results show that most of carbon exchange, both photosynthesis and respiration, was limited to the wet season (typically from October to mid-May). Seasonal variations in GPP followed closely to changes in leaf area index, which in turn was governed by soil moisture, available sunlight and the timing of the last frost. In general, R{sub eco} was an exponential function of soil temperature, but with season-dependent values of Q{sub 10}. The temperature-dependent respiration model failed immediately after rain events, when large pulses of R{sub eco} were observed. Respiration pulses were especially notable during the dry season when the grass was dead and were the consequence of quickly stimulated microbial activity. Integrated values of GPP, R{sub eco}, and net ecosystem exchange (NEE) were 867, 735, and -132g C m{sup -2}, respectively, for the 2000-2001 season, and 729, 758, and 29g C m{sup -2} for the 2001-2002 season. Thus, the grassland was a moderate carbon sink during the first season and a weak carbon source during the second season. In contrast to a well-accepted view that annual production of grass is linearly correlated to precipitation, the large difference in GPP between the two seasons were not caused by the annual precipitation. Instead, a shorter growing season, due to late start of the rainy season, was mainly responsible for the lower GPP in the second season. Furthermore, relatively higher R{sub eco} during the non-growing season occurred after a late spring rain. Thus, for this Mediterranean grassland, the timing of rain events had more impact than the total amount of precipitation on ecosystem GPP and NEE. This is because its growing season is in the cool and wet season when carbon uptake and respiration are usually limited by low temperature and sometimes frost, not by soil moisture.
MECHANISMS OF HALOTHANE ADSORPTION BY DRY SODA-LIME

Using fresh soda-lime (15% water by weight) the soda lime/air partition coefficient of halothane was found to decrease as a function of vapour phase halothane concentration from 2 40 at 0.3% halothane by volume to 1.15 at 2.6%, but adsorption generally followed Henry’s law. However, soda-lime dried to a constant weight and subsequently exposed to various concentranons of halothane adsorbed approximately 320 μlitre of vaporized liquid halothane per 100 g before a measurable concentration of halothane was detected in the vapour phase. Adding additional halothane then caused a linear increase in vapour concentration. We conclude that dry soda-lime can adsorb large quantities of halothane by a mechanism which is nimilar to that of a molecular sieve. After these “high affinity” sites are satisfied, additional halothane is adsorbed by a mechanism following Henry’s law.
Effects of ECM Degradation Rate, Adhesion, and Drag on Cell Migration in 3D

Receptors on the cell surface are used to bind to specific proteins in the extracellular matrix (ECM), and intracellular forces generated by the actomyosin can be transferred to these sites of contact. These cell-ECM interactions are important for cancer invasion, cell differentiation, and wound healing. In particular, cancer metastasis is a process that is highly dependent on cell migration through a 3D matrix. Cells secrete enzymes, such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), in order to degrade some of the proteins in the ECM and migrate through it. Our 3D model of cell migration serves to investigate how the degradation rate of the ECM influences quantities important for cell-ECM interactions and cell motility. In our model, both the cell-ECM traction and the drag force depended on the bound receptor concentration, and timedependent equations were used to model the reaction between the MMPs and the ECM proteins. Simulations were conducted over a range of degradation coefficient (α) values of 0 to 1 nm2/s.molec and for drag coefficients of 0.5, 1, and 2 pN.s/μm. Results show that both the cell-ECM traction and the drag force were larger in magnitude at lower values α where the concentrations of the bound receptors were the highest. Though the cell velocity showed a biphasic relationship with respect to α, this relationship became less pronounced for lower values of the drag coefficient where cell-ECM traction became the most important force acting on the cell. The relative contribution of the traction and drag force is important in determining the range of α needed for maximal cell migration speed.
Polypropylene lower-extremity braces for paraplegia due to myelomeningocele.

Because our experience with the conventional steel brace on children paralyzed by myelomingocele was generally unsatisfactory, we developed a polypropylene solid-ankle orthosis, using the principles of the SACH prosthesis and gait mechanics. This brace was applied to forty-seven children with paralysis at the third to fifth lumbar level, forty-three of whom showed considerable improvement in their gait. Reduced bracing was possible in eighteen patients. The over-all patient acceptance of the brace was due to improved appearance and comfort, increased stability, and improved gait. From our experience we feel that this is a major advancement in the bracing of children who are partially paralyzed at the third lumbar level or below.
Incarcerated women's relationship-based strategies to avoid drug use after community re-entry.

ABSTRACTWhile recent research has stressed the supportive role that family and friends play for incarcerated persons as they re-enter the community, drug-using incarcerated women re-entering the community often have to rely on family, community, and intimate relationships that have played a role in their substance abuse and criminalization. In this study the authors conducted qualitative analysis of clinical sessions with rural, drug-using women (N = 20) in a larger prison-based HIV risk reduction intervention in Kentucky during 2012–2014 to examine incarcerated women’s perceptions of the role of their family, community, and intimate relationships in their plans to decrease their substance abuse upon community re-entry. Women stressed the obstacles to receiving support in many of their family and drug-using relationships after community re-entry. Nonetheless, they asserted that changes in their relationships could support their desires to end their substance abuse by setting limits on and using their posi...
Fundamentals of a high speed vortical flow

A high speed turbulent flow past a projectile model at 60-degree angle of attack is investigated for gaining in-depth insights and understanding of the fundamental of complex three-dimensional vortical flows. The physics of the flow problem is assumed here to be represented by the Reynolds-averaged thin-layer Navier-Stokes equations implemented with a modified Baldwin-Lomax turbulence model for ideal gas. The numerical simulation conducted has provided extensive as well as intensive information on fundamentals of the vortical flow, from the onset of crossflow separation to asymmetric vortex shedding. For instance, one of the exciting findings is the evolution of a cross-sectional primary vortex; it is found that the formation process of a spiral vortex can be entirely different, depending on the outer flow conditions.
Flow and Structural Analysis of a Straight and Swept Blade Near Stall Region

The aerodynamics of a straight edged and a swept edged blade are investigated using a commercial CFD code. RANS equations with SST k-ω equation were utilized to study the flow separation along the blades span in a stall region. The analysis results will be used to provide inputs to future designs to improve and to enable better prediction of the stall region. The computations were carried out in a narrow wind speed range of 14 m/s to 16 m/s which as per earlier analysis was near the stall point to further understand the locations of flow separations along the blade span. The study provides some insights in to the flow physics in the region around the wind turbine blade. An FE Analysis was also performed to further understand the maximum stress and displacement regions to further provide inputs to future designs. A comparison of maximum stress, deformation and structural vibration modes for the two blades were also done.© 2011 ASME
Cost Comparisons Between Different Techniques of Percutaneous Renal Biopsy for Small Renal Masses

Abstract Purpose: To compare the costs associated with ultrasound (US)-guided hospital-based (UGHB), CT-guided hospital-based (CTG), and US-guided office-based (UGOB) percutaneous renal biopsy (PRB) for small renal masses (SRMs). Methods: We retrospectively analyzed patient demographics, tumor characteristics, R.E.N.A.L. nephrometry scores, and cost data of patients undergoing PRB for SRM at our institution from May 2012 to September 2015. Cost data, including facility costs, professional fees, and pathology, were obtained from the departments of urology, radiology, and pathology. Results: A total of 78 patients were included in our analysis: 19, 31, and 28 UGHB, CTG, and UGOB, respectively. There was no difference in age, gender distribution, or tumor size among the three groups (p-values 0.131, 0.241, and 0.603, respectively). UGOB tumors had lower R.E.N.A.L. nephrometry scores (p = 0.008). There were no differences in nondiagnostic rates between the UGHB, CTG, and UGOB groups [4 (21%), 5 (16%), and 6 (...
Huaihua City,2005-2011 Legal Infectious Disease Epidemic Trend Analysis

Objective:To analysis of Huaihua city,2005-2011 the incidence of infectious disease trends,understand the characteristics and influencing factors of local statutory infectious diseases.Methods:Descriptive epidemiological methods for statistical analysis of notifiable infectious disease information in Huaihua city,2005-2011.Results:Huaihua city,2005-2011,the average annual reported incidence rate of 368.35/10 million,reporting 430 cases of deaths,with an average annual mortality rate was 3.7‰.From the professional composition show that top five were farmers,scattered children,students,workers,the retired workers personnel,scattered the incidence of children increasing year by year,from points age infection situation shows that the incidence of 0-14 years old is rising year by year.The main diseases of infectious diseases for tuberculosis,hepatitis b,other infectious diarrhea disease,hand,foot and mouth disease,epidemic mumps.The number of the increasing year by year,particularly in 2010 and 2011.Males more than females,the difference was statistically significant(P0.05),the blood source and sexually transmitted infection incidence of a disease is rising year by year,with significant difference,there is statistical significance(P0.05).Conclusion:nearly seven years of legal infectious disease,huaihua city,the popular characteristic has changed dramatically,from before the respiratory infections to give priority to become blood source and sexually transmitted infection is given priority to,the incidence of male patients obviously on the high side,the incidence of minors shows ascendant trend.Therefore,we should strengthen the blood and sexually transmitted infection prevention and control,through the development of the scale of the health education,and to improve the understanding of the infectious diseases,can reduce the incidence of a disease.Infectious disease control and prevention in the future focus on strengthening the main area high incidence of infectious diseases at the same time,to make new hair infectious disease management and prevention and control.
Epidemiological investigation on the first case of human infection with H7N9 avian influenza in Henan Province

[Objective] To investigate and analyze the first case of human infection with highly pathogenic avian influenza virus( H7N9) so as to provide scientific basis for control of avian influenza infection in humans. [Methods] Epidemiological survey was carried out including the process of morbidity,possible infection source,transmission route and risk factors,etc. Strict observation was made on close contacts of the patient. Meanwhile the patient underwent clinical diagnosis,treatment and laboratory tests.[Results] The patient was confirmed to be infected with highly pathogenic human avian influenza H7N9 virus as ascertained by expert group of ministry of health,and was cured and discharged. The patient had definate contact with live poultry,and using H7N9 pharyngeal swab through laboratory tests,avian influenza virus nucleic acid showed positivity results. No abnormalities were found in clinical manifestations in close contacts of the patient. By expanding surveillance on 160 cases of influenza-likeillness( ILI) and 858 cases of professional groups,the samples were not found to be H7N9 positive. However,on local live poultry market,two chicken pharyngeal swab specimens were detected to be H7N9 positive. Positive chickens were from other provinces. [Conclusion] History of live poultry exposure is believed to be the key risk factors in infection with H7N9 virus. So far there has been no evidence of human-to-human transmission.There has not been subclinical infection or mild cases found in crowd. However,there is the need to expand monitoring and epidemiological investigation so as to improve the understanding of the disease.
Effects of Age on Lipogenesis and Lipolysis in Lean and Obese Swine

The effects of age on lipogenic and lipolytic activities in several breeds of swine were investigated. Females from a contemporary line and genetically selected populations of lean and obese pigs were utilized. Subcutaneous adipose tissue samples were taken from the shoulder area of nonfasted animals at 28-day intervals from 3 to 6 months of age for determination of in vitro lipogenic, lipolytic and acetyl CoA carboxylase activities. There were no significant differences between the breeds in the in vitro lipogenic rates measured in tissue slices with 14 C-glucose as substrate, except at 6 months of age, when the rate was higher in the obese than in the lean animal. However, the trend each months was obese greater than contemporary greater than lean. Lipogenic activity was greatest in all breeds at 4 months of age. Acetyl CoA carboxylase activity closely paralleled the lipogenic activity. The in vitro unstimulated lipolytic rate measured in tissue slices by the release of fatty acids to the incubation medium was similar for all breeds and decreases with age. Lipogenesis appears to be more important than unstimulated lipolysis in regulating backfat thickness in the breeds of swine examined.