cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Pt−Ru/Graphitic Carbon Nanofiber Nanocomposite Exhibiting High Relative Performance as a Direct-Methanol Fuel Cell Anode Catalyst

Multistep deposition and reactive decomposition of a precursor molecule containing one Pt and one Ru atom on herringbone graphitic carbon nanofibers (GCNFs) affords a Pt−Ru/GCNF nanocomposite containing Pt−Ru alloy nanoclusters widely dispersed on the GCNF support. The nanocomposite has a total metal content of 42 wt % with a bulk Pt/Ru atomic ratio of ca. 1:1, and metal alloy nanoclusters having average particle sizes of 6 nm as calculated from XRD peak widths or 7 nm as measured directly from TEM images. XRD and electrochemical analysis of the nanocomposite as-prepared and stored under ambient conditions reveals the presence of small amounts of Ru metal and oxidized metal species. Comparative testing of this nanocomposite and an unsupported Pt−Ru colloid of similar surface area and catalyst particle size as anode catalysts in a working direct-methanol fuel cell (DMFC) reveals a 50% increase in performance for the Pt−Ru/GCNF nanocomposite. More detailed study of the catalytic performance of metal alloy/G...
oskar mRNA is localized to the posterior pole of the Drosophila oocyte

Mutants of the maternal posterior-group genes of Drosophila lack posterior body pattern elements and germ cells, both of which form through the action of determinants localized to the posterior pole of the oocyte. We report that transcripts of one of these genes, oskar, become localized to the posterior pole of oocytes shortly after the oocyte begins to differentiate visibly. Analysis of various posterior-group mutants reveals that localization of oskar mRNA is an early step in the posterior localization pathway. In addition, we find that nonsense oskar mutations disrupt osk mRNA localization, while missense oskar mutations do not.
Determination and rotamer separation of enalapril maleate by capillary electrophoresis

Abstract Capillary electrophoresis (CE) was applied to the study of enalapril maleate, an inhibitor of angiotensin-converting enzyme. By the use of capillary zone electrophoresis, a method using sodium borate or sodium phosphate buffers (pH 8.25–9.7) as an electrolyte and using an external standard was developed for the determination of enalapril maleate at room temperature. At a method concentration of 0.2 mg/ml, the injection precision (R.S.D. = 0.62%, n = 10) and linearity of detector responses (range 50–150% of the method concentration, R2 = 0.999) were satisfactory. The method precision was also satisfactory as demonstrated by the content uniformity assays of ten tables of vasotec (20 mg potency). The method is stability indicating and specific as enalapril can be well separated from its two degradates, enalaprilat (a hydrolysis product) and its diketopiperazine (a cyclization product). By the use of micellar elektrokinetic capillary chromatography, in which 40–100 mM sodium dodecyl sulfate were added to the electrolyte buffers to form micelles in capillary, the cis and trans rotamers of enalapril was separated at or below 20°C. As the temperature increased, the two peaks spread and coalesced to one peak above 40°C. The study demonstrates that CE can be effectively applied to both the determination and conformer separation of drugs in pharmaceutical research and development.
Antiport Mechanism for Cl−/H+ in ClC-ec1 from Normal-Mode Analysis

ClC chloride channels and transporters play major roles in cellular excitability, epithelial salt transport, volume, pH, and blood pressure regulation. One family member, ClC-ec1 from Escherichia coli, has been structurally resolved crystallographically and subjected to intensive mutagenetic, crystallographic, and electrophysiological studies. It functions as a Cl−/H+ antiporter, not a Cl− channel; however, the molecular mechanism for Cl−/H+ exchange is largely unknown. Using all-atom normal-mode analysis to explore possible mechanisms for this antiport, we propose that Cl−/H+ exchange involves a conformational cycle of alternating exposure of Cl− and H+ binding sites of both ClC pores to the two sides of the membrane. Both pores switch simultaneously from facing outward to facing inward, reminiscent of the standard alternating-access mechanism, which may have direct implications for eukaryotic Cl−/H+ transporters and Cl− channels.
Inverse photonuclear process in 16O

Abstract Mild structure is observed in the main part of the giant resonance of 16 O by means of the reaction 15 N(p,γ o ) 16 O. Between E x = 25 and 29 MeV the average 16 O(γ,p o ) 15 N cross section is 50 percent of that in the main part of the resonance.
Management of acute renal failure : New perspectives

Despite major developments in medicine, surgery, and intensive care, acute renal failure (ARF) still remains a common problem affecting approximately 5% of all general hospital patients. Mortality of all forms of ARF continues to be greater than 50%, and this percentage has not decreased significantly over the last 30 years. There are multiple factors, which may explain the persistence of such high mortality; the most important of these is probably the evolution of the disease spectrum underlying the development of ARF. At present, ARF is more often observed in older or more complex patients frequently in association with multiorgan system failure. The annual cost of managing ARF is staggering. This article reviews several of the new strategies and approaches that have been developed to aid in the management and prevention of ARF. For example, the use of biocompatible membranes has been proven to positively influence the course of ARF, which necessitates renal replacement therapy. Although continuous renal replacement therapy has a theoretical advantage compared with intermittent hemodialysis in critically ill and hemodynamically unstable patients, there are no well-controlled clinical studies to support a beneficial effect on mortality. There is, however, good evidence that calcium channel blockers play a positive role in the management of ARF, especially that associated with cadaveric kidney transplantation. Vasoactive agents, such as dopamine, may have the advantage of increasing the urine output in patients with oliguric ARF; however, their efficacy in otherwise altering the course of ARF is not well substantiated. Finally, growth factors and atrial natriuretic peptide appear to have the potential for accelerating renal recovery and decreasing morbidity and mortality from this commonly encountered medical problem. Prospective randomized clinical studies are the key to many of the dilemmas encountered with ARF.
Intraarterial Digital Subtraction Angiography

600 Highland Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin 53792AbstractUsing digital electronic techniques it is possible to process the video signal from aconventional image intensified fluoroscopic system so as to allow isolation and amplifica-tion of a small iodine signal produced after the intravascular injection of contrast medium.Such a device has been in use in our department for the last two years, primarily forperformance of intravenous arteriography. More recently, we have been using the apparatusto perform arteriography after injection of the iodinated contrast medium directly intothe arterial system. In this report the technique, advantages and limitations of suchan approach will be discussed.IntroductionFor the last two years a digital subtraction apparatus has been installed in the Diag-nostic Radiology Department of the University of ITisconsin Center for Health Sciences.Previous reports have described and illustrated the utility of such a device for performanceof intravenous arteriography in evaluation of arteries of the head, neck, thorax, abdomen,and extremities. i,2,3,4,5 Over the last six months we have used this device in 30 patientswith neurological signs and symptoms in conjunction with the intraarterial injection ofiodinated contrast medium. Such an approach offers advantages over standard methods ofarteriography in that it reduces the need for selective arterial catheterization anddecreases both the dose of contrast medium required to perform an examination and theamount of film necessary to record the images obtained. Limitations include reduced spatialresolution as compared to standard film screen techniques and the limited field sizecurrently available with commercially produced image intensifiers.TechniqueThe system used for these studies was developed by Mistretta and his associates and hasbeen described previously in detail.6,7,8,9 For intraarterial studies an image is takenbefore injection of the contrast medium and is stored in memory. At the time of injection,a continuous exposure is initiated, producing a sequence of thirty interlaced subtractionimages per second for times up to six seconds. A 512x512 memory matrix is used. Radiationdose has been estimated at 1 R per second. Because of the high contrast levels present withintraarterial injections, however, in the future it should be possible to greatly reducethis dose.For selective arterial injections 60% Renografin is injected through a 5 French catheterhaving a single end hole. The rate of injection varies from lcc -5cc /second with the totalvolume ranging between 4 and lOcc. For aortic arch injections, a 5 French Dig -tail catheterwith an end hole and four side holes is positioned in the ascending aorta. Renografin 76is the contrast medium used and is injected at a rate of 5 -15cc /second for a total volume
Just enough reality: a kinder gentler approach to stereo

We demonstrate that the binocular perspective disparity generated by an interocular separation that is only a few percent of the nominal 65 mm human interocular separation is still enough to stimulate depth perception. This perception, which we call microstereopsis, has a 'kinder gentler' character than the stark and stressful stimulus presented by geometrically correct virtual reality displays. Microstereopsis stimulates 'just enough reality:' enough to resolve the depth ambiguity in flat images, but not so much reality that it hurts. We observe that whereas crosstalk between left and right image channels is normally perceived as ghosting, with microstereopsis it is perceived as blur in the foreground and background. Since ghosting is objectionable, whereas blur that looks like depth-of-focus in not objectionable, this relaxes the requirement for a high contrast ratio between on and off states of the stereo view multiplexer. This relaxation in turn suggest possibilities for zoneless autostereoscopic displays. We propose a realization based on an electronically toggled louvre filter using suspended particle display technology.© (1999) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Fabrication of epoxy matrix composites by electron beam induced cationic polymerization

This paper describes the use of high-energy electron beam radiation to fabricate high-performance epoxy resin matrix composites. Employing catalytic amounts of diaryliodonium and triarylsulfonium salt photoinitiators, it was found that graphite fiber reinforced composites based on epoxy monomers could be efficiently e-beam cured at room temperature when exposed to e-beam irradiation. A mechanism involving the reduction of the onium salt initiators by e-beam induced free radicals has been proposed. Strong protonic acids generated during the course of this reaction initiate the cationic ring-opening polymerization of the epoxy resins. This chemistry was employed to fabricate high-performance carbon fiber reinforced composites. The mechanical properties of the composites were measured and effects of blends with other epoxy monomers and additional types of particulate fillers were evaluated using various testing methods.
Exploring the Use of Activity Based Costing in the Restaurant Industry

Traditional cost accounting systems have been replaced in recent years in the manufacturing sector by Activity Based Costing (ABC) systems. In spite of this trend in manufacturing, ABC systems have made few inroads in the services and hospitality sector, particularly in the restaurant industry. In this study, restaurant controllers in the United States were surveyed to identify their knowledge about, and use of, ABC systems. The results show that the use of ABC in the restaurant industry is almost non-existent for a variety of reasons. However, restaurants may be an ideal setting for the application of ABC tools due to the inherent characteristics of the industry.
CO2 emissions: Are land-use changes enough for California to reduce VMT? Specification of a two-part model with instrumental variables

Abstract With vehicle miles of travel increasing at a faster pace than population, one strategy being actively pursued by both state and local governments is compact development. California recently passed legislation that aggressively promotes sustainability by endorsing and rewarding compact development. Likewise, the California Air Resources Board has set a statewide reduction target of 5MMT of greenhouse gas reductions from land use, based largely on achieving compact development patterns. In this paper, we use a multivariate two-part model with instrumental variables, which corrects for residential location self-selection bias. We use a much larger and more geographically representative travel survey on household travel patterns and socio-economic characteristics than represented in previous California studies; this allows us to robustly consider other influences on travel. Our results indicate that, all else equal, a 10% in residential density would reduce VMT by 1.9%. This elasticity is larger than the reported in previous econometric studies for the US, and specifically for California. However, as we show, the magnitude of this impact is still low considering reasonable ranges for policies aimed to increase residential density.
Some present day aspects of vitamin A problems in less developed countries.

Although vitamin A deficiency is a problem of major public health significance in many less developed countries, there has not been the concerted action to reduce its prevalence as has been the case with protein‐calorie malnutrition. Recent developments are helping to focus increasing attention on vitamin A problems. In this report gaps in available data are noted. Limitations with respect to current requirement figures for the vitamin and to criteria for diagnosing a deficiency are discussed. Vitamin A deficiency is a many‐faceted problem, quite apart from the fact that the vitamin is not an entity. The most serious effects are generally found in the toddler group, and often in association with other diseases, both nutritional and infectious. In any country or area an ecological approach is needed to delineate the causes for the deficiency and to lay a realistic basis for planning remedial measures. The merits of various types of intervention programs are discussed and attention is drawn to areas of inve...
Cystic fibrosis lung disease: genetic influences, microbial interactions, and radiological assessment

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a multiorgan disease caused by mutation of the CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene. Obstructive lung disease is the predominant cause of morbidity and mortality; thus, most efforts to improve outcomes are directed toward slowing or halting lung-disease progression. Current therapies, such as mucolytics, airway clearance techniques, bronchodilators, and antibiotics, aim to suppress airway inflammation and the processes that stimulate it, namely, retention and infection of mucus plaques at the airway surface. New approaches to therapy that aim to ameliorate specific CFTR mutations or mutational classes by restoring normal expression or function are being investigated. Because of its sensitivity in detecting changes associated with early airway obstruction and regional lung disease, high-resolution CT (HRCT) complements pulmonary function testing in defining disease natural history and measuring response to both conventional and experimental therapies. In this review, perspectives on the genetics and microbiology of CF provide a context for understanding the increasing importance of HRCT and other imaging techniques in assessing CF therapies.
A Histologic Study of the Developing Conduction System in the Turkey Heart

Abstract Hearts of embryonic turkeys, 10 days and older, and young poults, 1 day, 1 week, and 6 weeks old, were fixed in either cold (4°C.) 10% formalin or Rossman’s mixture. Adjacent sections, 7μ. in thickness, were stained with: (a) the periodic acid-Schiff technic of McManus with hematoxylin counterstain and salivary amylase controls, (b) hematoxylin and eosin, (c) Mallory’s triple stain, and (d) Movat’s pentachrome stain. The first histologic indication of conduction cells was seen in the hearts of 15-day embryos. These cells were seen both in the subendocardial region and perivascularly, especially in relation to the larger vessels present in the myocardium. Results indicate that conduction cells: (1) arise de novo, (2) occur extensively throughout the turkey heart, (3) are void of stainable glycogen, (4) are surrounded by a reticular connective tissue sheath, (5) possess striations, (6) are often binucleate, (7) are appreciably larger than the usual myocardial cells, and (8) usually are joined together to form fibers with no apparent intercalated discs separating the individual cells as in true myocardial fibers.
Form discrimination and reversal learning in kittens

Groups of nine kittens, aged 60, 90, 120, and 180 days at the start of the experiment were tested on 10 reversals of a form discrimination task. The groups all showed significant improvement in reversal learning but did not differ significantly in performance at any stage in training. These negative results are similar to those previously obtained in a study of spatial reversal learning by kittens.
P300 amplitude is related to clinical state in severely and moderately ill patients with schizophrenia

Abstract Background: Relationships between illness severity and neurobiologic abnormalities in schizophrenia were studied in subpopulations varying in clinical severity. Methods: Auditory ERPs were collected from 28 severely ill, chronically hospitalized schizophrenic men from a state hospital; 29 moderately ill inpatient and outpatient schizophrenic men from a veterans hospital; and 30 healthy male subjects from the community as controls. Clinical symptoms were evaluated in patients using the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS). Results: Both schizophrenic patient groups had smaller P300 amplitude than the control subjects. Severely ill patients had smaller P300s than moderately ill patients and scored higher on three BPRS factor scores as well as BPRS Total. Among severely ill patients, P300 amplitude was unrelated to clinical symptoms. Among moderately ill patients, P300 was related to Withdrawal/Retardation, Anxiety/Depression, and BPRS Total. After combining patients, Thinking Disturbance emerged as an additional correlate of P300. Group differences in P300 could not be accounted for by group differences in symptom severity using analysis of covariance. Conclusions: Reduced P300 amplitude marks the diagnosis of schizophrenia, but also reflects individual differences in severity, including positive symptoms. Previous failures to find relationships between positive symptoms and P300 may have been due to a restricted range of clinical severity.
Slow- wave sleep and epilepsy: rostral thalamus and basal forebrain lesions suppress spindles and seizures.

Abstract In cats, rostral thalamus and basal forebrain lesions were studied in acute and chronic experiments and the effects on sleep spindles and Metrazol- or penicillin-induced generalized seizures were assessed. Lesions of both areas were effective in reducing the amplitude of or completely suppressing sleep spindles and electroencephalogram seizure activity. There are several alternative hypotheses for the enduring effects on spindles and seizures.
Personality traits and coronary heart disease: A re-examination of Ibrahim's hypothesis using longitudinal data

Abstract Ibrahim et al [1] found that men with clinical coronary heart disease (CHD) had a higher prevalence of a specific psychological pattern, characterized by the level of hostility being less than the levels of anxiety and repression, than did men free of clinical CHD and having low levels of serum cholesterol and arterial pressure. Using a new method of analyzing cross-sectional data, they concluded that the psychological pattern probably follows the occurrence of the disease and, therefore, is not of etiological significance. Their method of analysis has been criticized [2]. The hypothesis of Ibrahim et al is re-examined in this paper using both cross-sectional and longitudinal data. We conclude that the psychological pattern is not related to risk of CHD nor is the occurrence of clinical CHD related to loss or acquisition of the psychological pattern among middle-aged men employed at the Western Electric Company's Hawthorne Works in Chicago.
Robotic laparoendoscopic single-site radical nephrectomy: surgical technique and comparative outcomes.

Abstract Background Recent reports have suggested that robotic laparoendoscopic single-site surgery (R-LESS) is feasible, yet comparative studies to conventional laparoscopy are lacking. Objective To report our early experience with R-LESS radical nephrectomy (RN). Design, setting, and participants A retrospective review of R-LESS RN data was performed between May 2008 and November 2010. A total of 10 procedures were performed and subsequently matched to 10 conventional laparoscopic RN procedures (controls). The control group was matched with respect to patient age, body mass index (BMI), American Society of Anesthesiologists score, surgical indication, and tumor size. Surgical procedure R-LESS RN was performed using methods outlined in the manuscript and supplemental video material. All patients underwent R-LESS RN by a single surgeon. Single-port access was achieved via two commercially available multichannel ports, and robotic trocars were inserted either through separate fascial stabs or through the port, depending on the type used. The da Vinci S and da Vinci-Si Surgical Systems (Intuitive Surgical, Sunnyvale, CA, USA) with pediatric and standard instruments were used. Measurements Preoperative, perioperative, pathologic, and functional outcomes data were analyzed. Results and limitations The mean patient age was 64.0 yr of age for both groups, and BMI was 29.2kg/m 2 . There was no difference between R-LESS and conventional laparoscopy cases in median operative time, estimated blood loss, visual analogue scale, or complication rate. The R-LESS group had a lower median narcotic requirement during hospital admission (25.3 morphine equivalents vs 37.5 morphine equivalents; p =0.049) and a shorter length of stay (2.5 d vs 3.0 d; p =0.03). Study limitations include the small sample size, short follow-up period, and all the inherent biases introduced by a retrospective study design. Conclusions R-LESS RN offers comparable perioperative outcomes to conventional laparoscopic RN. Prospective comparison is needed to definitively establish the position of R-LESS in minimally invasive urologic surgery.
The Great Land Rush and the Making of the Modern World, 1650-1900

A critique of the greatest reallocation of resources in the history of the world and its impact on indigenous peoples, property rights, and the very foundations of modernity.
Helical advancement with a posterior auricular pull-through flap: A technique for reconstruction of combined helical and scaphal defects.

Ear reconstruction after skin cancer resection has traditionally challenged the reconstructive surgeon and many techniques of reconstruction have been published as a testiment to this. With the widespread use of Moh's technique for resection, more tissues are now available after resection, and this has created a new challenge for the reconstructive surgeon—to use creatively all the remaining tissues and maximize the aesthetics of the ear reconstruction. This paper demonstrates a one-stage technique for reconstruction of a combined helical and scaphal Moh's defect which utilizes helical advancement with a posterior auricular skin flap.
Retention of sodium and chloride by mitochondria.

Retention of sodium and chloride by washed mitochondria is described. The observations supplement data reported previously with respect to retention of potassium 1. 1. Only small amounts of sodium were retained after treatment with electrolyte-free sucrose: 0.025–0.05 μmoles/mg nitrogen or 1.0–2.0 μmoles/ml centrifuged pellet. This sodium was not found to be completely exchangeable with free sodium of the surrounding fluids, and influx of sodium from the medium was not dramatically stimulated by low concentrations (10−5 M) of inorganic mercuric salts. These findings differ from those reported with potassium and suggest retention by a different mechanism. 2. 2. Rates of influx of radioactive sodium or potassium into mitochondrial substance were inhibited by high concentration (10−1 M) of other cations in the suspending fluids. 3. 3. Washed mitochondria retained small amounts, also, of chloride: 0.03–0.05 μmole/mg nitrogen. Retention was increased 3–4 fold after treatment with 2,4-dinitrophenol, and this increase was associated with release of equivalent amounts of inorganic phosphate.
Stump colonization by Armillaria in Wisconsin aspen stands following clearcutting

The frequency and degree of aspen stump colonization by undetermined Armillaria sp. was quantified by examination of 185 bulldozed stumps in two Wisconsin aspen stands, 2or5 years after cutting. Rhizomorphs were associated with all stumps examined. All of the 5-year-old stumps and 94 % of the 2-year-old stumps were colonized. Armillaria had colonized >50 % of the root-collar area of 98 % of the 5-year-old stumps, but only of 13 % of the 2-year-old stumps. Mycehal fans and decay extended from stumps into roots.
Identification of pathogenic mutations in the human rapsyn gene

Rapsyn, a complex postsynaptic protein of the striated muscle, assembles acetylcholine receptors (AChR) at high density at the motor endplate (EP). Neuromuscular junctions of mice lacking rapsyn show no clusters of AChRs or other structural postsynaptic proteins such as β-dystroglycan and utrophin. Humans with mutations in the rapsyn gene (RAPSN) are affected with a postsynaptic form of congenital myasthenic syndrome (CMS) characterized by impairment of the morphologic development of the postsynaptic region. We have identified four patients from four different families with RAPSN mutations and CMS, confirmed in two cases by microelectrode and electron microscopy studies. The N88K mutation was present in all patients. One patient who was homozygous for N88K was only mildly affected, while the other three patients who were heterozygous for N88K and a second mutation (either L14P, 46insC, or Y269X) were severely affected. Mutations 46insC and Y269X predicts truncation of the protein. L14P predicts a conformational change at the N-terminus that may disrupt membrane association. N88K occurs within the putative leucine zipper motif potentially important for AChR clustering. These findings may explain the severe clinical involvement of compound heterozygous patients.
Blasting injuries in surface mining with emphasis on flyrock and blast area security.

Abstract Problem : Blasting is a hazardous component of surface mining. Serious injuries and fatalities result from improper judgment or practice during rock blasting. This paper describes several fatal injury case studies, analyzes causative factors, and emphasizes preventive measures. Method : This study examines publications by MSHA, USGS, and other authors. The primary source of information was MSHA's injury-related publications. Results : During the 21-year period from 1978 to 1998, the mean yearly explosive-related injuries (fatal and nonfatal) for surface coal mines was 8.86 (95% CI: 6.38–11.33), and for surface metal/nonmetal mines 10.76 (95% CI: 8.39–13.14). Flyrock and lack of blast area security accounted for 68.2% of these injuries. This paper reviews several case studies of fatal injuries. Case studies indicate that the causative factors for fatal injuries are primarily personal and task-related and to some extent environmental. A reduction in the annual injuries in surface coal mines was observed during the 10-year period of 1989–1998 [5.80 (95% CI: 2.71–8.89) compared to the previous 10-year period of 1979–1988 [10.90 (95% CI: 7.77–14.14)]. However, such reduction was not noticed in the metal/nonmetal sector (i.e., 9.30 [95% CI: 6.84–11.76] for the period 1989–1998 compared with 11.00 [95% CI: 7.11–14.89] for the period 1979–1988). Discussion : A multifaceted injury prevention approach consisting of behavioral/educational, administrative/regulatory, and engineering interventions merits consideration. Impact on industry : The mining community, especially the blasters, will find useful information on causative factors and preventive measures to mitigate injuries due to flyrock and lack of blast area security in surface blasting. Discussion of case studies during safety meetings will help to mitigate fatal injuries and derive important payoffs in terms of lower risks and costs of injuries.
Mapping Sequences Active in Homologous RNA Recombination in Brome Mosaic Virus: Prediction of Recombination Hot Spots

Abstract The mechanism of homologous recombination has been studied previously in brome mosaic virus (BMV), a tricomponent, positive-stranded RNA virus of plants, by using artificial sequences (reviewed by J. J. BujarskiP. D. Nagy (1996). Semin. Virol. 7, 363–372). Here we extend these studies over BMV-derived sequences to obtain clues on prediction of homologous recombination hot spots. First, mismatch mutations, which reduced the AU content, were introduced into the common 60-nt recombination hot-spot sequence, either in the RNA2 or in both RNA2RNA3 components. This decreased the frequency of targeted homologous RNA2/RNA3 recombinationchanged the distribution of junction sites. Second, several short BMV RNA1- or RNA2-derived sequences were introduced into the RNA3 component,homologous recombination activity of these sequences was compared with that observed for previously characterized artificial sequences. Third, sequences at homologous recombinant junctions were compared among a large number of targetednontargeted recombinants. All these studies revealed several factors important for homologous recombination including the length of sequence identity, the extent of sequence identity, the AU content of the common sequences, the relative position of the AU-rich segment vs a GC-rich segment,the presence of GC-rich sequences. Based on this novel model, we suggest that recombination hot spots can be predicted by means of RNA sequence analysis. In addition, we show that recombination can occur between positivenegative strands of BMV RNAs. This provides further clues toward the mechanism of recombination processes in BMV.
Effect of cold stress on broilers selected for resistance or susceptibility to ascites syndrome

Genetic selection for an ascites-resistant line of broilers is seen as a permanent solution to the ascites problem. Ascites-resistant and ascites-susceptible lines have been developed using sire family selection based on mortality data taken from siblings reared in a hypobaric chamber (simulated 2,900 m above sea level). The relaxed line is representative of the original commercial pureline stock randomly mated with no artificial selection pressure. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the differences between the lines when reared in floor pens and subjected to an ascites-inducing cold stress. Seven hundred eighty three straight run broilers were reared in floor pens at local elevation (390 m above sea level). Feed and water were available ad libitum. Birds were brooded at 32 C during the first week. The second week birds were maintained at 30 degrees C. Cold stress was applied for the remaining 4 wk at 14 degrees C. Mortalities were necropsied daily to determine cause of death. Birds and feed were weighed weekly. At 6 wk, five birds per pen were bled, and half the survivors in each pen (8 to 15 birds) were killed, necropsied, and scored for ascites. Blood gases, clinical chemistries, and blood cell counts were taken. Liver, spleen, split heart, and lung weights were recorded. Body weights were not different among the resistant, susceptible, and relaxed lines (P < 0.05). Feed conversion was better in the resistant line when compared to the susceptible and relaxed lines (P < 0.05). Ascites incidence, as measured by mortality and lesion score at necropsy, was higher in the susceptible and relaxed lines when compared to the resistant line; 18.8, 12.7, and 1.6% respectively (P < 0.001). Susceptible and relaxed lines showed more right ventricular hypertrophy when compared with the resistant line (P < 0.05). The results show that under severe cold stress at local altitude (390 m above sea level), the ascites-resistant line was growing as rapidly as the other lines and was as resistant to ascites as it had been under hypobaric conditions.
Effect of percutaneous atrial septal defect and patent foramen ovale device closure on degree of aortic regurgitation.

Background In recent years, percutaneous device closure has become commonplace for treatment of atrial septal defect (ASD) and patent foramen ovale (PFO). However, the effect of device closure on aortic valve regurgitation (AR) has been questioned. Objective The purpose of this study was to define changes in AR using echocardiography, before and after device closure of ASD or PFO. Methods We retrospectively reviewed all patients who had percutaneous device closure of ASD or PFO at our institution between 2005 and 2009. We compared the preprocedure echocardiogram to the most recent follow-up study. All investigators were blinded to referral diagnosis, patient demographics, and size and type of the device placed. Aortic regurgitation was graded as none/trivial, mild, moderate, or severe. Results Overall, 322 patients qualified for inclusion; 204 with PFO and 118 with ASD. Mean age at time of closure was 48 ± 20 years (range 3–85 years). Mean duration of follow-up was 1.2 years (range 2 months to 5 years). Only two patients (0.6%) demonstrated any appreciable increase in AR severity. However, both of these patients manifested a clinically insignificant change from a trivial to mild grade of aortic regurgitation. Conclusions Percutaneous device closure of PFO or ASD does not increase the incidence or severity of AR over medium-term follow-up. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Membrane topology of the Escherichia coli TolR protein required for cell envelope integrity.

Abstract TolR is a 142-amino-acid protein required for the import of colicins and bacteriophage and for maintenance of cell envelope integrity. The topology of TolR in the inner membrane was analyzed by two methods. First, bacteria expressing a series of TolR-beta-galactosidase, TolR-alkaline phosphatase, and TolR-beta-lactamase fusions were assayed for the appropriate enzymatic activity. Second, the accessibility of TolR to proteinase K was determined in permeabilized cells and everted vesicles with an antibody elicited against the carboxyl-terminal 70% of TolR. The results are consistent with TolR spanning the inner membrane once via residues 23 to 43 and with the carboxyl-terminal moiety being exposed to the periplasm. Quantitative studies with the anti-TolR antibody indicated the presence of 2 x 10(3) to 3 x 10(3) TolR molecules per cell.
Activity of enzymatic antioxidant defense systems in chilled and heat shocked cucumber seedling radicles

Chilling whole cucumber seedlings that had 10-mm long radicles for 4 days at 2.5°C significantly inhibited subsequent radicle growth both by increasing the time it took the seedlings to recover from chilling and attain a linear rate of radicle growth, and by decreasing the subsequent rate of linear growth. Exposing cucumber seedlings to 45°C for up to 20 min had no effect on subsequent radicle growth, while longer exposures produced reductions in growth. A heat shock at 45°C for 10 min induced the optimal protection to 4 days of chilling at 2.5°C by reducing chilling inhibition from 60 to 42%. Two hours after being chilled, heat shocked or heat shocked and then chilled, there was no difference in protein content of the apical 1 cm of the seedling radicle among these treatments and the non-heat shocked, non-chilled control. Two days after treatment, the protein content was still similar in tissue that had been heat shocked or heat shocked and chilled, while it was significantly reduced in tissue that had been chilled. In general, 2 h after treatment, the activity of the 5 antioxidant enzymes examined in this study [superoxide dismutase (SOD; EC 1.15.1.1), catalase (CAT; EC 1.11.1.6), ascorbate peroxidase (APX; EC 1.11.1.11), guaiacol peroxidase (GPX; EC 1.11.1.7) and glutathione reductase (GR; EC 1.6.4.2)] were reduced by chilling and unaffected or increased by heat shock. When heat shock was followed by chilling, there was a consistent effect of the heat shock treatment on preventing the loss of enzyme activity following chilling. This protective effect of the heat shock treatment was even more pronounced after 2 days of recovery at 25°C for SOD, CAT and APX. In contrast, the activity of GR and GPX was substantially higher in chilled tissue than in tissue that had been heat shocked before being chilled. Elevated levels of GR and GPX therefore appear to be correlated with the development of chilling injury, while elevated levels of SOD, CAT and APX appear to be correlated with the development of heat shock-induced chilling tolerance.
Volatile content of lunar volcanic glasses and the presence of water in the Moon’s interior

The Moon is generally thought to have formed and evolved through a single or a series of catastrophic heating events, during which most of the highly volatile elements were lost. Hydrogen, being the lightest element, is believed to have been completely lost during this period. Here we make use of considerable advances in secondary ion mass spectrometry to obtain improved limits on the indigenous volatile (CO(2), H(2)O, F, S and Cl) contents of the most primitive basalts in the Moon-the lunar volcanic glasses. Although the pre-eruptive water content of the lunar volcanic glasses cannot be precisely constrained, numerical modelling of diffusive degassing of the very-low-Ti glasses provides a best estimate of 745 p.p.m. water, with a minimum of 260 p.p.m. at the 95 per cent confidence level. Our results indicate that, contrary to prevailing ideas, the bulk Moon might not be entirely depleted in highly volatile elements, including water. Thus, the presence of water must be considered in models constraining the Moon's formation and its thermal and chemical evolution.
Wegener's granulomatosis in a patient receivingpropylthiouracil for Graves' disease

Abstract Context: The use of propylthiouracil (PTU) in patients with Graves' disease hasbeen associated with multiple complications including rash, leukocytoclastic vasculitis, pulmonary hemorrhage, glomerulonephritis, and the presence of perinuclear antineutrophilic cytoplasmic antibodies (pANCA). Objectives: To report the association of Wegener's granulomatosis (WG) withthe use of PTU in a patient with Graves' disease and to review the spectrum of systemic vasculitis seen in patients with Graves' disease taking PTU. Design: Retrospective review of data collected in a patient with WG. Inaddition, a Medline search (1980 to present) for PTU-associated vasculitis was conducted. Results: We report WG in a patient treated with PTU who fulfilled the criteria ofthe American College of Rheumatology for this disease. Furthermore, his serum was positive for cytosolic antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (cANCA) and anti-proteinase-3 (PR3) antibodies by indirect immunofluorescence and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), respectively. WG is associated with high morbidity and mortality and usually requires extensive therapy with prednisone and cyclophosphamide. Our patient, however, did not need specific therapy except discontinuation of PTU to make a full recovery. In previous reports, PTU has been associated with different forms of vasculitis, but this is a the first description of classic WG in a patient treated with PTU. Conclusions: PTU is capable of causing WG in susceptible patients with Graves' disease. Our patient did not require specific therapy for vasculitis and improved after discontinuation of PTU.
Comparative serological reactivities of twenty-seven polysaccharides from nine species of dermatophytes

The serological cross-reactivities of galactomannans I, galactomannans II and glucans isolated from 9 dermatophyte species, viz Microsporum praecox, Trichophyton ferrugineum, T. interdigitale, T. mentagrophytes, T. quinckeanum, T. rubrum, T. sabouraudii, T. schonleinii and T. tonsurans, were measured with antisera to each of these species by complement fixation tests. The galactomannans I were the most reactive polysaccharides. They cross-reacted with each of the antisera and differed most in their cross-reactivities with antisera to T. interdigitale, T. sabourandii and T. schonleinii. The galactomannans II were less reactive. They differed in their cross-reactivities with antisera to each species. The glucans were the least reactive with these antisera and differed in their serological cross-reactivities. In no 2 species were the chemical structures and serological reactivities of the 3 polysaccharides identical. The chemical and serological investigations of these polysaccharides tend to support the vie...
Estimates of genetic parameters and genetic change for reproduction, weight, and wool characteristics of Targhee sheep.

The objective was to describe genetic parameters and genetic changes in litter sizes at birth and weaning (LB and LW, n=9081), birth weight (BW, n=11,896), weaning weight (WW, n=11,104), fleece weight and grade (FW and FG, n=8872), and staple length (SL, n=1805) of Polypay sheep. Direct heritability estimates from single-trait analyses were 0.11 for LB, 0.02 for LW, 0.17 for BW, 0.18 for WW, 0.68 for FW, 0.36 for FG, and 0.76 for SL. Estimates of direct genetic correlation were 0.40 between LB and LW, 0.57 between BW and WW, 0.65 between FW and SL, 0.37 between FW and FG and 0.70 between SL and FG. Breeding values (BV) from both single-trait and seven-trait analyses calculated using the parameters estimated from single-trait and two-trait analyses were compared across years of birth with respect to genetic trends. Estimated BV from both analyses for LB, LW, BW, WWand FW increased over time, while those for FG and SL were unchanged. Estimated changes in BVover time did not differ substantially for single-trait and seven-trait analyses, except for traits highly correlated with another trait that was responding to selection (i.e., LB, which was highly correlated to both LW and WW). D 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
How behavioral economics can help to avoid ‘The last mile problem’ in whole genome sequencing

Failure to consider lessons from behavioral economics in the case of whole genome sequencing may cause us to run into the ‘last mile problem’ - the failure to integrate newly developed technology, on which billions of dollars have been invested, into society in a way that improves human behavior and decision-making.
SOME EQUATIONS FOR LOGICALLY SCORING AND LOGICALLY INDEXING BIPOLAR ITEMS AND VARIABLES

The problem of combining interval level "bipolar" data so that every "plus-minus" (or logical) combination produces a unique scale point is a ubiquitous problem faced by both applied and theoretical researchers in the social sciences. To solve an applied research problem recently, a set of equations was developed that combined all "plus and minus" data combinations into unique values and scale points. These equations were tested through computer simulations and empirical tests, and the resulting index scores were approximately interval and linear and easy to use and interpret logically. These equations and findings are reported in this article.
Neurturin shares receptors and signal transduction pathways with glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor in sympathetic neurons

Neurturin (NTN) is a neurotrophic factor that shares homology with glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF). Recently, a receptor complex has been identified for GDNF that includes the Ret tyrosine kinase receptor and a glycosylphosphatidylinositol-linked protein termed “GDNFRα.” However, differences in the phenotype of Ret and GDNF knockout animals suggest that Ret has at least one additional ligand. In this report, we demonstrate that NTN induces Ret phosphorylation in primary cultures of rat superior cervical ganglion (SCG) neurons. NTN also caused Ret phosphorylation in fibroblasts that were transfected stably with Ret and GDNFRα but not in cells expressing Ret alone. A glycosylphosphatidylinositol-linked protein also was important for NTN and GDNF signaling in SCG neurons; phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C treatment of SCG cultures reduced the ability of NTN to phosphorylate Ret and the ability of NTN or GDNF to activate the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway. NTN and GDNF also caused sustained activation of Ret and the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway in SCG neurons. Finally, both NTN and GDNF activated the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase pathway in SCG neurons, which may be important for the ability of NTN and GDNF to promote neuronal survival. These data indicate that NTN is a physiologically relevant ligand for the Ret receptor and suggest that NTN may have a critical role in the development of many neuronal populations.
Nonverbal oral apraxia in primary progressive aphasia and apraxia of speech

Objective: The goal of this study was to explore the prevalence of nonverbal oral apraxia (NVOA), its association with other forms of apraxia, and associated imaging findings in patients with primary progressive aphasia (PPA) and progressive apraxia of speech (PAOS). Methods: Patients with a degenerative speech or language disorder were prospectively recruited and diagnosed with a subtype of PPA or with PAOS. All patients had comprehensive speech and language examinations. Voxel-based morphometry was performed to determine whether atrophy of a specific region correlated with the presence of NVOA. Results: Eighty-nine patients were identified, of which 34 had PAOS, 9 had agrammatic PPA, 41 had logopenic aphasia, and 5 had semantic dementia. NVOA was very common among patients with PAOS but was found in patients with PPA as well. Several patients exhibited only one of NVOA or apraxia of speech. Among patients with apraxia of speech, the severity of the apraxia of speech was predictive of NVOA, whereas ideomotor apraxia severity was predictive of the presence of NVOA in those without apraxia of speech. Bilateral atrophy of the prefrontal cortex anterior to the premotor area and supplementary motor area was associated with NVOA. Conclusions: Apraxia of speech, NVOA, and ideomotor apraxia are at least partially separable disorders. The association of NVOA and apraxia of speech likely results from the proximity of the area reported here and the premotor area, which has been implicated in apraxia of speech. The association of ideomotor apraxia and NVOA among patients without apraxia of speech could represent disruption of modules shared by nonverbal oral movements and limb movements.