cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
High-precision, consistent EKF-based visual-inertial odometry

In this paper, we focus on the problem of motion tracking in unknown environments using visual and inertial sensors. We term this estimation task visual-inertial odometry (VIO), in analogy to the well-known visual-odometry problem. We present a detailed study of extended Kalman filter (EKF)-based VIO algorithms, by comparing both their theoretical properties and empirical performance. We show that an EKF formulation where the state vector comprises a sliding window of poses (the multi-state-constraint Kalman filter (MSCKF)) attains better accuracy, consistency, and computational efficiency than the simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) formulation of the EKF, in which the state vector contains the current pose and the features seen by the camera. Moreover, we prove that both types of EKF approaches are inconsistent, due to the way in which Jacobians are computed. Specifically, we show that the observability properties of the EKF's linearized system models do not match those of the underlying system, which causes the filters to underestimate the uncertainty in the state estimates. Based on our analysis, we propose a novel, real-time EKF-based VIO algorithm, which achieves consistent estimation by (i) ensuring the correct observability properties of its linearized system model, and (ii) performing online estimation of the camera-to-inertial measurement unit (IMU) calibration parameters. This algorithm, which we term MSCKF 2.0, is shown to achieve accuracy and consistency higher than even an iterative, sliding-window fixed-lag smoother, in both Monte Carlo simulations and real-world testing.
Aging effect of a molecularly imprinted polymer on a quartz tuning fork sensor for detection of volatile organic compounds

Abstract The sensing stability and sensitivity of a molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) selective to the adsorption of hydrocarbons was studied. The MIP was deposited on a quartz crystal tuning fork (QTF) resonator, whose chemical and physical properties were monitored over time, using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller adsorption isotherm analysis (BET), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). In addition, kinetic binding analysis of the MIP-modified QTF sensor was carried out for the sensors stored and operated under ambient conditions (740 mmHg, 20–23 °C). Although the polymer was able to maintain its physical and chemical properties at microscopic, BET adsorption, and spectroscopic levels, the intrinsic adsorption properties of hydrocarbons onto MIP binding sites altered over time, which suggest that the 3-D conformational changes of the polymer binding sites occurring at nanoscopic/angstrom level may cause the sensitivity degradation in MIP. The changes were significantly reduced by stabilizing the polymer under low storage temperatures.
Marketing productivity, marketing audits, and systems for marketing performance assessment: integrating multiple perspectives

Abstract Responding to competitive pressures and financial realities long familiar to other functional managers and academics, corporate shareholders, senior managers, and the Marketing Science Institute have identified marketing metrics and marketing performance measures as top research priorities. However, marketing academics have only recently begun to re-focus on this important research domain. Historically, marketing productivity analysis and the marketing audit concept have dominated approaches to assessing marketing performance. We suggest that both approaches have been fundamentally limited in terms of conceptualization and implementation, but that within each approach are the seeds of a more useful, holistic approach to marketing performance assessment (MPA). Two distinct MPA system approaches are necessary to integrate past efforts, extend our existing knowledge base, and aid management practice — normative and contextual MPA systems. We review past approaches and integrate these with more recent theoretical advances to develop conceptual models of both types of MPA systems and consider their implications for management practice and academic research.
Measurement of Anti-Cancer Agent Methoxyamine in Plasma by Tandem Mass Spectrometry with On-Line Sample Extraction

In this work, we present the development and validation of a tandem mass spectrometry method for the quantitative determination of methoxyamine (CH3ONH2), a potential new chemotherapeutic agent, in human and mouse plasma. Methoxyamine together with the internal standard (I.S.) methoxyl-D3-amine was directly derivatized in plasma sample with a novel chemical agent 4-(N,N-diethylamino)benzaldehyde. The product solution was injected into an on-line Oasis HLB extraction column (2.1 mm x 20 mm) for analyte extraction. After the elution of extractives, the derivatized analytes were monitored by the positive-electrospray-ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS-MS). The structures of derivatized analytes were elucidated by fragmentation. Quantitation of plasma methoxyamine was carried out by the multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode. This method had a linear calibration range of 1.00-1000 ng/ml with a correlation coefficient of 0.9999 for methoxyamine in both human and mouse plasma. The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) for methoxyamine in plasma were 0.150 and 0.500 ng/ml, respectively. It was demonstrated that the method had high recovery and accuracy (90.1-94.7 and 90.1-96.3%), as well as excellent intra- and inter-assay precision (2.2 and 3.7%), at three concentration levels (5.00, 50.0, 500 ng/ml). This method has been used to analyze the plasma levels of methoxyamine in samples obtained from male CD1 mice after bolus intraperitoneal injection of 2, 5 and 20mg methoxyamine hydrochloride (CH3ONH2.HCl) per kilogram mouse.
Minimizing Perinatal Neurologic Injury at Term: Is Cesarean Section the Answer?

Despite advances in obstetric and neonatal care, the last several decades have not witnessed an improvement in the prediction or prevention of term cerebral palsy. Obstetric interventions such as electronic fetal heart rate monitoring and cesarean delivery, although biologically plausible as intervention strategies, do not improve perinatal outcomes in clinical practice. In reaction to mounting medicolegal pressure, obstetricians continue to increase the number of cesarean deliveries they perform as a form of defensive medicine, despite evidence that this practice is not associated with improved perinatal outcomes. The current standard for expeditious delivery in a case of potential fetal compromise is described by the "30-minute rule." However, obstetricians' determinations of the need for expedited delivery may be a preferable guide for appropriate delivery timing.
Building a Model to Predict Which Fourth Through Eighth Graders Will Drop Out in High School

AbstractThe classification accuracies of models for predicting later high school drop out from data available in grades 4 through 8 were examined. The objective was to construct an actuarial dropout screening model to serve as part of an overall dropout identification paradigm for the state of Florida. Subjects were 503 dropouts and 282 persisters from six geographically representative school districts in Florida. Separate superior prediction models were identified for each grade level and yielded cross-validated classification accuracies ranging from 73% to 88% for the dropout group and 73% to 86% for the persister group. All classification accuracies for each grade for both the dropout and persister groups and for the combination of the two were significantly greater than chance expectation and were considered of practical importance as well.
An empirical analysis of software life spans to determine the planning horizon for new software

This paper presents an empirical analysis of the life span of over 180 systems aimed at developing a model for determining the planning horizon for new software at the business case stage of software acquisition. At this early stage, the firm has limited knowledge about the project, but must make crucial decisions, such as scope (breadth of requirements), approach (both insource vs. outsource and custom vs. package) and technology, including fit with standards (adhere to current vs. adopt new technology). These decisions are associated with different system lifetimes that, in turn, impact both the costs incurred and benefits received from the system. The failure to explicitly and properly address these differences can lead to the implementation of systems better left undone or to unintended consequences, such as the Y2K problem. We find that technology and approach, but not scope decisions are strongly related to system lifetime. In particular, systems that use an operating system that conforms to the firm's standard or are acquired using a blended team entail longer system life. On the other hand, shorter system life is indicated if the system is technically complex, custom developed or uses an older programming language. Furthermore, modified packaged software is shorter lived than is a vanilla package. In addition, environmental variables also impact the appropriate horizon. For example, as one would expect, strategic systems are used longer. On the other hand, somewhat surprisingly, systems sponsored by executives last less long and despite the quickening pace of technological and business process advancement, a small trend toward longer lived systems is uncovered.
U.S. immigration regulations and India's information technology industry

Abstract The export-led growth of India's information technology (IT) industry has been nothing short of phenomenal over the past half-dozen years. Other studies have provided a number of explanations for the growth. This paper proposes that a significant factor has been overlooked or understated in prior explanations. Specifically, the Indian IT industry has utilized U.S. immigration regulations for competitive advantage to accelerate its growth. The importance of this factor is estimated through quantitative data analysis at the macro and firm levels. The analysis helps to explain why India's IT industry grew while that of other developing countries, with similar human capital resources and wage rates, did not. The U.S. Congress is currently debating U.S. immigration policies and may change them in the near future. Any changes will have significant effects on the future growth pattern of the Indian IT industry. Many developing countries have recognized India's success, and policymakers in those countries are implementing strategies to replicate it. The results from this study may help those policymakers better understand a key factor of India's success in exporting IT.
Transactional literature circles and the reading comprehension of English learners in the mainstream classroom

Santa Clara University, Santa Clara, CA, USAThis study examines a problem that many mainstream teachers face today – how tosuccessfully improve reading comprehension for English language learners (ELLs)in an English-only environment. The researcher examines both the academic andpsychosocial effects of the Transactional Literature Circles (TLC) programme on atreatment group of 75, fourth to sixth grade, at-risk, ELLs to a comparable controlgroup who did not participate in the study. The results of this study report that TLCpositively affected the reading comprehension of the programme participants. Thestudents in the TLC programme outperformed the students in the control group onstandardised reading tests, and in 7 months increased one grade level in reading.Teacher interviews and student surveys reported an increase in student readingengagement and motivation that positively affected reading self-efﬁcacy, conﬁdenceand a willingness to participate in class discussions.
Studies on phenolic steroids in human subjects. XI. the biosynthesis and proof of structure of estriol-3,16-diglucosiduronate

Abstract Estriol-3,16-diglucosiduronate has been biosynthesized by incubation of estriol-3-glucosiduronate, UDPGA and mouse liver homogenate. Proof of structure rests on the method of preparation, chromatographic behavior, enzymatic hydrolysis and on methylation of the diglucuronide and identification of the estriol-17B-methyl ether resulting from hydrolysis of the glucuronic acid moieties and comparison with authentic standard.
Estimation of species richness based on species range

A geographical region, containing an unknown number of species, is partitioned into N quadrats. The range of a species is defined to be the number of quadrats in which the species is present. A random sample of n quadrats is drawn without replacement, and the species list is determined for each of the selected quadrats. Two estimators of S are proposed. The inclusion probabilities in the Horvitz-Thompson estimator involve the unknown species ranges but these ranges can be estimated to yield an “estimated” Horvitz-Thompson estimator. This estimator is biased because of the use of estimated inclusion probabilities. For the other estimator, it is shown that the expected number of species in the sample having a specified sample range r is a linear combination over R of the number SR of species in the population with population range R. Letting r vary yields a system of linear equations that can be solved to obtain estimates for the SR and for S. These estimators for SR and S are shown to be unbiased when the sample size n is sufficiently large.
The effect of lateral visual fixation on response latency to verbal and spatial questions

The results of several studies have suggested a relationship between lateral eye movements and contralateral hemispheric activation or ipsilateral inhibition. The present study investigated the effects of lateral and central eye fixation on response latency to verbal and spatial questions. Response latencies for verbal questions were significantly longer when subjects fixated to the left or centrally, as compared to the right. On spatial questions, response latencies were significantly longer in the right fixation condition than in the other conditions. The results indicate that visual fixation ipsilateral to hemispheric activation is related to slower problem solving, and suggest that eye movements during cognitive activity may have functional significance.
Acute thiamine deficiency and refeeding syndrome: Similar findings but different pathogenesis.

Abstract Objective Refeeding syndrome can occur in several contexts of relative malnutrition in which an overaggressive nutritional support is started. The consequences are life threatening with multiorgan impairment, and severe electrolyte imbalances. During refeeding, glucose-involved insulin secretion causes abrupt reverse of lipolysis and a switch from catabolism to anabolism. This creates a sudden cellular demand for electrolytes (phosphate, potassium, and magnesium) necessary for synthesis of adenosine triphosphate, glucose transport, and other synthesis reactions, resulting in decreased serum levels. Laboratory findings and multiorgan impairment similar to refeeding syndrome also are observed in acute thiamine deficiency. The aim of this study was to determine whether thiamine deficiency was responsible for the electrolyte imbalance caused by tubular electrolyte losses. Methods We describe two patients with leukemia who developed acute thiamine deficiency with an electrolyte pattern suggestive of refeeding syndrome, severe lactic acidosis, and evidence of proximal renal tubular dysfunction. Results A single thiamine administration led to rapid resolution of the tubular dysfunction and normalization of acidosis and electrolyte imbalance. This demonstrated that thiamine deficiency was responsible for the electrolyte imbalance, caused by tubular electrolyte losses. Conclusions Our study indicates that, despite sharing many laboratory similarities, refeeding syndrome and acute thiamine deficiency should be viewed as separate entities in which the electrolyte abnormalities reported in cases of refeeding syndrome with thiamine deficiency and refractory lactic acidosis may be due to renal tubular losses instead of a shifting from extracellular to intracellular compartments. In oncologic and malnourished patients, individuals at particular risk for developing refeeding syndrome, in the presence of these biochemical abnormalities, acute thiamine deficiency should be suspected and treated because it promptly responds to thiamine administration.
University and College Counselors as Athletic Team Consultants: Using a Structural Family Therapy Model.

Increasingly, university and college counselors are sought out by their institution's sports coaches for assistance in achieving team goals. Traditional sport psychology models that have the individual athlete as their primary focus are insufficient frameworks for team-level consultations. The authors believe that systemic approaches may provide an effective alternative. In this article, the authors offer and illustrate S. Minuchin's (1974) Structural Family Therapy as a heuristic model for conceptualizing and intervening with athletic teams.
MAGNETIC MOMENT OF THE 26.8-kev STATE OF $sup 129$I MEASURED WITH THE AID OF SUPERCONDUCTING MAGNETS

The magnetic moment of the 26.8-keV state in $^{129}\mathrm{I}$ has been determined from the Zeeman effect of the 26.8-keV gamma line in an external field. The line was observed in a M\"ossbauer spectrometer with a vibrating $^{66}\mathrm{Zn}$ $^{129}\mathrm{Te}$ source cooled by liquid nitrogen. A ${\mathrm{K}}^{129}$I absorber was mounted in a 50-kG superconducting magnet immersed in liquid helium. The absorption spectrum of the ${\frac{7}{2}}^{+}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{\frac{5}{2}}^{+}$ transition consists of twelve Zeeman components when observed in the direction of the magnetic field. These components could not be resolved because their spacings are less than a linewidth. The shape of this unresolved spectrum, however, depends sensitively on the ratio of the magnetic moment of the excited state to that of the ground state. Analysis of such spectra by curve-fitting techniques yields +2.84\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.05 nm for the magnetic dipole moment of the 26.8-keV state.
Isopiestic determination of the osmotic and activity coefficients of {zH2SO4+(1−z) MgSO4}(aq) at the temperatureT=298.15 K. I. Results forz=(0.85811, 0.71539, and 0.57353)

Abstract Isopiestic vapor-pressure measurements were made for {zH2SO4+(1−z])MgSO4}(aq) with H2SO4molality fractions ofz=(0.85811, 0.71539, and 0.57353) at temperature 298.15 K. Measurements extend from total molalitiesmTof (0.12548, 0.13563, and 0.14741) mol·kg−1to the supersaturated molalitiesmT=(12.0496, 11.0112, and 7.20595) mol·kg−1, respectively. Forz=(0.71539 and 0.57353) these highest molalities correspond to the greatest degrees of supersaturation that could be achieved during isothermal removal of the solvent. The corresponding water, activity ranges are 0.9958≥aw≥0.2758, 0.9958≥aw≥0.3312, and 0.9958≥aw≥0.5581 forz=(0.85811, 0.71539, and 0.57353), respectively. These values ofzwere chosen to be separated approximately equally by 0.142 (Δz≈1/7). The water activity curves were also found to be nearly equally spaced from each other, as was thez=0.85811 curve from that for H2SO4(aq) (z=1). Given that both H2SO4(aq) and MgSO4(aq) are extensively associated electrolytes, this regularity in the mixing behaviour was not anticipated. A well-defined crossover point was found at which the sums of the stoichiometric ionic molalities were equal at isopiestic equilibrium forz=(1, 0.85811, 0.71539, and 0.57353), as were the water activities and stoichiometric osmotic coefficients of these solutions. This occurred at Σivimi=(5.9632±0.0036) mol·kg−1, whereviis the stoichiometric ionization number of electrolyte i.
What is the quality of surgery-related information on the internet? Lessons learned from a standardized evaluation of 10 common operations.

Background Although there is high-quality information on the Internet, it is difficult for patients to identify high-quality Web sites from those with inaccurate or misleading information. Our goal was to determine specific characteristics of Web search results that yield high-quality information and can be discerned easily by patients. Study Design A validated rating system was used to evaluate surgical Web sites for appropriateness and adequacy. Web sites were identified using three search term types (technical, descriptive, and layperson) for 10 common surgical procedures. The top three sponsored (paid) and unsponsored (unpaid) Web site matches were identified. The search and analysis were repeated 1 month later. Results One hundred forty-five Web sites were retrieved: 90 unsponsored and 55 sponsored. Unsponsored sites had higher mean composite scores than sponsored Web sites (50.6% versus 25%, p Conclusions To optimize patients' Web searches, surgeons should recommend unsponsored sites; suggest professional society sites, if available; and provide technical search terms. But information on some topics, such as risks of not undergoing surgery, remains poor and requires discussion between the surgeon and patient.
The aging man and woman: are the differences important?

Abstract This article celebrates the continuing differences between men and women that are present in our twilight years. Although men die earlier than women, they spend fewer years with major disability. There is increasing interest in the use of testosterone to improve the quality of life in both older men and women. Sarcopenia, osteopenia, hip fractures, and frailty are all more common in women than in men. Sexuality remains important to both men and women throughout life. Finally, it is known that cytokines play a major role in the pathophysiology of aging, a process now recognized as the cytokine-related aging process.
Synthesis, characterization and properties of novel highly oxygen permeable amphiphilic membranes

The objective of this research was to develop new strategies for the synthesis of novel optically clear highly oxygen permeable membranes exhibiting appropriate water uptake and mechanical properties for possible ophthalmic applications. Thus a series of bicontinuous amphiphilic conetworks containing well-defined poly- (ethylene glycol) and polydimethylsiloxane segments crosslinked by three novel crosslinking/modifying agents were synthesized, characterized, and evaluated. This paper concerns the design and synthesis of the crosslinking/modifying agents (see Fig. 2), and their use for the synthesis of clear, highly oxygen permeable amphiphilic membranes. Select membranes exhibit outstanding oxygen permeabilities (>200 barrers) far superior to contemporary commercial soft contact lenses, together with mechanical properties and water uptake appropriate for extended wear soft contact lens application. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 308–316, 2007
Direct mapping of electronic structure across Al0.3Ga0.7As/GaAs heterojunctions: Band offsets, asymmetrical transition widths, and multiple-valley band structures.

By using the prototypical ${\mathrm{Al}}_{0.3}$${\mathrm{Ga}}_{0.7}$As/GaAs system, we demonstrate the unique capability of scanning tunneling microscopy to directly map out detailed electronic structure across heterojunctions. Three novel applications are reported: (1) precise determination of band offsets, (2) measurement of asymmetrical electronic transition widths between the normal and inverted interfaces, and (3) mapping of multiple-valley band structures. Important implications of these results are discussed.
DIRECT MEASUREMENT OF THE SEED BANK AGE STRUCTURE OF A SONORAN DESERT ANNUAL PLANT

We describe a new approach to determining the age structure of seed banks of natural plant populations and apply it to a natural population of the Sonoran Desert winter annual, Pectocarya recurvata (Boraginaceae). Unlike other 14C techniques, tandem accelerator mass spectrometry (TAMS) counts the number of carbon isotope atoms, permitting high precision with small samples. Aboveground nuclear bomb tests caused atmospheric 14C levels to peak in 1963. Their subsequent gradual decline provides a signal for aging seed banks with TAMS. We constructed a calibration curve using seeds with known dates of production during 1980–1995, then used it to age 53 seeds sampled from a natural seed bank in 1993, at the Desert Laboratory in Tucson, Arizona. Seed number declined with age at an approximately exponential rate, with the oldest recovered seed having an estimated age of 5 yr (95% ci = ±2.3 yr). The seed bank age structure was judged more than adequate to buffer this population from typical fluctuations, based on ...
A Real-Time Self-Adaptive Classifier for Identifying Suspicious Bidders in Online Auctions

With the significant increase of available item listings in popular online auction houses nowadays, it becomes nearly impossible to manually investigate the large amount of auctions and bidders for shill bidding activities, which are a major type of auction fraud in online auctions. Automated mechanisms such as data mining techniques were proved to be necessary to process this type of increasing workload. In this paper, we first present a framework of Real-Time Self-Adaptive Classifier (RT-SAC) for identifying suspicious bidders in online auctions using an incremental neural network approach. Then, we introduce a clustering module that characterizes bidder behaviors in measurable attributes and uses a hierarchical clustering mechanism to create training datasets. The neural network in RT-SAC is initialized with the training datasets, which consist of labeled historical auction data. Once initialized, the network can be trained incrementally to gradually adapt to new bidding data in real time, and thus, it supports efficient detection of suspicious bidders in online auctions. Finally, we utilize a case study to demonstrate how parameters in RT-SAC can be tuned for optimal operations and how our approach can be used to effectively identify suspicious online bidders in real time.
Just Mercy, by Dorothy Van Soest

Dorothy Van Soest’s career has always been centered within social justice. Her concern for the struggles of individuals and communities to achieve an understanding of the nature of justice, oppress...
Robust Regression and Posterior Predictive Simulation Increase Power to Detect Early Bursts of Trait Evolution

A central prediction of much theory on adaptive radiations is that traits should evolve rapidly during the early stages of a clade's history and subsequently slowdown in rate as niches become saturated—a so-called "Early Burst." Although a common pattern in the fossil record, evidence for early bursts of trait evolution in phylogenetic comparative data has been equivocal at best. We show here that this may not necessarily be due to the absence of this pattern in nature. Rather, commonly used methods to infer its presence perform poorly when when the strength of the burst—the rate at which phenotypic evolution declines—is small, and when some morphological convergence is present within the clade. We present two modifications to existing comparative methods that allow greater power to detect early bursts in simulated datasets. First, we develop posterior predictive simulation approaches and show that they outperform maximum likelihood approaches at identifying early bursts at moderate strength. Second, we use a robust regression procedure that allows for the identification and down-weighting of convergent taxa, leading to moderate increases in method performance. We demonstrate the utility and power of these approach by investigating the evolution of body size in cetaceans. Model fitting using maximum likelihood is equivocal with regards the mode of cetacean body size evolution. However, posterior predictive simulation combined with a robust node height test return low support for Brownian motion or rate shift models, but not the early burst model. While the jury is still out on whether early bursts are actually common in nature, our approach will hopefully facilitate more robust testing of this hypothesis. We advocate the adoption of similar posterior predictive approaches to improve the fit and to assess the adequacy of macroevolutionary models in general. (Adaptive Radiations, Early Burst, Posterior Predictive Simulations, Quantitative Characters)
Current and emerging pharmacologic therapies for the management of postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Abstract Postmenopausal osteoporosis is an asymptomatic skeletal disease that is often underdiagnosed and undertreated. Osteoporotic fractures are associated with substantial morbidity and mortality and impaired quality of life—socially, emotionally, and financially. Considering the growing burden of osteoporotic fractures worldwide, there remains an ongoing need for progress in the diagnosis of osteoporosis, identification of individuals at high fracture risk, and treatment to prevent fractures. Adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D is recommended as baseline therapy for osteoporosis prevention and treatment. Available pharmacological agents for the management of postmenopausal osteoporosis may not be appropriate for all women. Oral bisphosphonates are generally considered first-line therapy for patients with osteoporosis, but their use may be limited by gastrointestinal side effects. Other agents include hormone therapy, the selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) raloxifene, salmon calcitonin, ...
A pre-mRNA-associating factor links endogenous siRNAs to chromatin regulation.

In plants and fungi, small RNAs silence gene expression in the nucleus by establishing repressive chromatin states. The role of endogenous small RNAs in metazoan nuclei is largely unknown. Here we show that endogenous small interfering RNAs (endo-siRNAs) direct Histone H3 Lysine 9 methylation (H3K9me) in Caenorhabditis elegans. In addition, we report the identification and characterization of nuclear RNAi defective (nrde)-1 and nrde-4. Endo-siRNA–driven H3K9me requires the nuclear RNAi pathway including the Argonaute (Ago) NRDE-3, the conserved nuclear RNAi factor NRDE-2, as well as NRDE-1 and NRDE-4. Small RNAs direct NRDE-1 to associate with the pre-mRNA and chromatin of genes, which have been targeted by RNAi. NRDE-3 and NRDE-2 are required for the association of NRDE-1 with pre-mRNA and chromatin. NRDE-4 is required for NRDE-1/chromatin association, but not NRDE-1/pre-mRNA association. These data establish that NRDE-1 is a novel pre-mRNA and chromatin-associating factor that links small RNAs to H3K9 methylation. In addition, these results demonstrate that endo-siRNAs direct chromatin modifications via the Nrde pathway in C. elegans.
A multispecies comparison of the metazoan 3'-processing downstream elements and the CstF-64 RNA recognition motif.

Background The Cleavage Stimulation Factor (CstF) is a required protein complex for eukaryotic mRNA 3'-processing. CstF interacts with 3'-processing downstream elements (DSEs) through its 64-kDa subunit, CstF-64; however, the exact nature of this interaction has remained unclear. We used EST-to-genome alignments to identify and extract large sets of putative 3'-processing sites for mRNA from ten metazoan species, including Homo sapiens, Canis familiaris, Rattus norvegicus, Mus musculus, Gallus gallus, Danio rerio, Takifugu rubripes, Drosophila melanogaster, Anopheles gambiae, and Caenorhabditis elegans. In order to further delineate the details of the mRNA-protein interaction, we obtained and multiply aligned CstF-64 protein sequences from the same species.
The diabetes primary prevention initiative interventions focus area: a case study and recommendations.

Background In 2005, CDC began the Diabetes Primary Prevention Initiative Interventions Focus Area (DPPI-IFA), which funded five state Diabetes Prevention and Control Programs (DPCPs) to translate diabetes primary prevention trials into real-world settings by developing and implementing a framework for state-level diabetes primary prevention. Purpose The purpose of this case study, conducted in 2007, was to describe DPPI-IFA implementation, including facilitators and challenges to the initiative. Methods Case studies of the five DPCPs in the DPPI-IFA involving site visits with key informant interviews of state staff and partners and archival record collection. Results Partners recruited for DPPI-IFA activities included local or state public health agencies (three of five DPCPs); regional or state nonprofit organizations (five DPCPs); businesses or employers (three DPCPs); and healthcare organizations (four DPCPs). The DPCPs implemented a variety of interventions in three main domains: diabetes primary prevention and prediabetes awareness, screening activities and lifestyle interventions, and prediabetes-related health policy efforts. Preliminary outcomes are described at the individual and organization/partnership levels. Results suggest the importance of utilizing preexisting partnerships to extend work into diabetes prevention, providing even small amounts of funding to partners, and prior program planning for diabetes prevention. Challenges for the DPPI-IFA included recruiting participants, establishing links with providers to obtain diagnostic testing for people screened for prediabetes, and offering a lifestyle intervention. Conclusions The DPPI-IFA represents a unique effort by state public health programs in the translation of diabetes primary prevention trials into real-world settings. The experiences of the DPPI-IFA programs offer valuable lessons for future community-based diabetes prevention initiatives, especially regarding the need to strengthen clinical–community partnerships for referral of people with prediabetes to evidence-based lifestyle programs.
Comparing root and shoot responses to nutrient additions and mowing in a restored semi-arid grassland

Although the use of minirhizotrons is increasing, many gaps in our scientific understanding of root systems remain. For example, relatively few studies have examined root responses to nutrient additions and mowing treatments in restored North American grasslands. In this project, we employed a combination of methods to evaluate the above- and belowground portions of restored grassland plots in western North Dakota (mixed grass prairie; 405 mm average annual precipitation). The plots were planted with various species combinations (1–20) and subjected to 5 years of nutrient additions (N, P, or control) and 3 years of mowing treatments (yearly fall mowing or no mowing). In general, we found the belowground variables (root length, surface area, number of tips, and number of branches) to be relatively unresponsive to the nutrient and mowing treatments. For instance, average root length was 309, 315, and 300 cm in the nitrogen, phosphorus, and control plots, respectively. In contrast, the aboveground variables exhibited pronounced responses to nitrogen applications (200 kg/ha year). Nitrogen applications increased aboveground biomass (660 vs. 265 g/m2, respectively) and reduced average species richness compared to the control (3.25 species vs. 7.29 species, respectively). Our results indicated that the root systems in the plots that received nitrogen were able to support more aboveground biomass than were similarly sized root systems in plots that did not receive nitrogen. However, the observed increase in aboveground biomass came at a cost, as species richness was lower in the plots that received nitrogen.
Implementation of TTCN operational semantics in Estelle

With an upgraded version of the Tree and Tabular Combined Notation (TTCN) that encompasses concurrency, it is now possible to foresee a new generation of Abstract Test Suites (ATSs) and Means Of Testing (MOT) for communication protocols. Indeed, the inclusion of concurrency/parallelism allows the complete description of ATSs in TTCN, including the upper tester behavior. This paper introduces a new prototype technology that automates the production of MOT from an ATS completely specified in TTCN. This technology is based on an implementation of the operational semantics of TTCN in Estelle.
4557 Usefulness of endoscopic ultrasound guided fine needle aspiration biopsy in the diagnosis of neuroendocrine tumors not visualized by other imaging modalities.

Background: Suspicion of neuroendocrine tumors is often based on clinical symptoms and hormonal tests. To define the location of these tumors is difficult due to their small size at the time of diagnosis. EUS has been proven to be the most accurate method for diagnosis of small pancreatic tumors and small lesions of the duodenum wall. Nevertheless, to date, the role of EUS-FNA cytology for neuroendocrine tumor diagnosis has not been defined. Aim : Determine the utility of EUS-FNA in the diagnosis of small functioning neuroendocrine tumors not detected by other imaging modalities. Patients and Methods : From 1993 to 1999, 9 patients with clinical suspicion for neuroendocrine tumor underwent EUS-FNA to determine location and allow cytologic confirmation of the tumor. Mean age was 52 years (range 35-69) and male/female ratio was 4/5. Four patients presented with hypoglycemia, 2 with diarrhea and the remaining three had been diagnosed with Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Three of these patients had a previously known MEN I syndrome. All patients had hormonal disturbances that strongly suggested the presence of a neuroendocrine tumor. EUS was routinely performed under conscious sedation with the mechanical radial instrument (Olympus GFUM 20 or GFUM 130) and, when the lesion was identified, FNA was performed under guidance with the curved linear array (Olympus GFUM 30P or Pentax FG 32UA). Results : EUS was able to visualize 13 tumors in these 9 patients (two out of three patients with known MEN I syndrome had two and four lesions respectively). In all but one patient CT did not show the tumor or missed at least one of the lesions. Two patients had exploratory surgery with intraoperative ultrasound prior to referral to our institution that failed to identify the tumor. Mean tumor size was 12 mm (range 4-25) and the tumor location was pancreas (n=12) or duodenal wall (n=1). EUS-FNA was performed in 11 of the 13 lesions detected. EUS-FNA accurately diagnosed neuroendocrine tumor in all cases. Seven patients underwent surgical resection confirming EUSFNA findings in all of them (accuracy 100%). No complications were observed. Conclusions : EUS is a highly accurate technique to visualize small size neuroendocrine tumors of those not seen on CT, this is specially important in those patients with multiple lesions. EUS-FNA safely provides cytologic confirmation with a high accuracy in these patients.
p27Kip1-deficient mice exhibit accelerated growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH)-induced somatotrope proliferation and adenoma formation.

p27Kip1 (p27) controls cell cycle progression by binding to and inhibiting the activity of cyclin dependent kinases. Disruption of the p27 gene in mice (p27−/−) results in increased body growth with a disproportionate enlargement of the spleen, thymus, testis, ovary and pituitary. The increase in pituitary size is due to selective hyperplasia of the intermediate lobe (IL) while the anterior lobe (AL) is not overtly affected. p27 heterozygous mice (p27+/−), as well as p27−/− mice, are hypersensitive to radiation- and chemical-induced tumors compared to wildtype (p27+/+) littermates. Therefore, unlike classical tumor suppressors, only a reduction in p27 levels is necessary to predispose tissues to secondary tumor promoters. Consistent with these studies is the fact that the p27 gene sequence and mRNA levels appear normal in human pituitary adenomas while p27 protein levels are decreased. Therefore, a reduction in p27 levels could be sufficient to sensitize pituitary cells to tumorigenic factors. To test this hypothesis, metallothionein promoter-driven, human growth hormone-releasing hormone (MT-hGHRH) transgenic mice, that exhibit somatotrope hyperplasia before 9 months of age and subsequent adenoma formation with 30–40% penetrance, were crossbred with p27+/− mice for two successive generations to produce p27+/+, p27+/− and p27−/− mice that expressed the hGHRH transgene. At 10–12 weeks of age, p27−/− and p27+/+, hGHRH mice were larger than their p27+/+ littermates and displayed characteristic hyperplasia of the IL and AL, respectively. Expression of the hGHRH transgene in both p27+/− and p27−/− mice selectively expanded the population of somatotropes within the AL, where pituitaries of p27+/−, hGHRH and p27−/−, hGHRH mice were two- and fivefold larger than p27+/+, hGHRH pituitaries, respectively. There was also a synergistic effect of hGHRH transgene expression and p27-deficiency on liver, spleen and ovarian growth. At 6–8 months of age, 83% of p27+/−, hGHRH mice displayed macroscopic AL adenomas (>100 mg), while all pituitaries from p27+/+, hGHRH mice remained hyperplastic (<20 mg). In contrast to the dramatic effects of p27-deficiency on hGHRH-induced organ growth, elimination of p53, by crossbreeding MT-hGHRH mice to p53-deficient mice, did not augment the hyperplastic/tumorigenic effects of hGHRH transgene expression. Taken together these results demonstrate that a reduction in p27 expression is sufficient to sensitize somatotropes to the proliferative actions of excess GHRH, resulting in the earlier appearance and increased penetrance of hGHRH-induced pituitary tumors.
Studies with specific enzyme inhibitors. XIV. The effects of enzymatically synthesized (-)-erythro-fluoromalic acid on malate dehydrogenase and on anion carriers of liver mitochondria.

Enzymatic synthesis and isolation of fluoromalate with a tentatively assigned (-)-erythro configuration is described. Fluoromalate inhibits purified malate dehydrogenase (Ki = 13 or 16 µM) but has no effect on the oxidation of pyruvate and succinate by liver mitochondria, indicating that fluoromalate does not penetrate the inner mitochondrial membrane. Oxidation of externally added L-malate is reversibly inhibited by fluoromalate when the latter is present at higher concentrations than malate. Oxidation of tricarboxylic acids and of α-ketoglutarate is greatly increased under state 3 conditions by fluoromalate. The rate of citrate-isocitrate translocation in mitochondria is activated by fluoromalate to the same extent as the metabolism of tricarboxylic acids. It is concluded that fluoromalate competitively inhibits the malate carrier and activates the carriers of tricarboxylic acids and of α-ketoglutarate.
Differential effects of nitrovasodilators and nitric oxide on porcine tracheal and bronchial muscle in vitro

Nitrovasodilators and nitric oxide relax airway smooth muscle. The mechanism by which nitrovasodilators are thought to act is by release of nitric oxide, but the importance of nitric oxide in nitrovasodilator-induced airway smooth muscle relaxation is unclear. The aim of this study was to compare the relaxing effects of nitric oxide itself with those of nitrovasodilators in porcine tracheal muscle and intrapulmonary airways and to investigate the mechanisms involved. Strips of porcine tracheal smooth muscle, rings of bronchi, and strips of bronchi from the same animal were suspended in organ chambers in modified Krebs Ringer solution (95% O2-5% CO2, 37 degrees C). Tissues were contracted with carbachol, and concentration-response curves to nitric oxide, sodium nitroprusside, and SIN-1 (an active metabolite of molsidomine) were obtained. All tissues relaxed to sodium nitroprusside, SIN-1, and nitric oxide. The relaxation to nitric oxide but not to SIN-1 or sodium nitroprusside was inhibited by methylene blue. Tissues pretreated with methylene blue that failed to relax to nitric oxide were, however, relaxed by sodium nitroprusside. These results demonstrate that nitrovasodilators relax airways by a mechanism other than by or in addition to the release of nitric oxide.
Pediatric thoracic trauma

When treating pediatric trauma patients, many important differences must be considered when compared to adults. It may be diffi cult to have access to emergency vascular treatment especially in cases of shock or cardiac arrest. Interosseous access is an important option in all children and is more commonly implemented in the very young. Children have a smaller blood volume and a more insidious onset of hemorrhagic shock, commonly with tachycardia, as the only early warning sign. Regarding thoracic injuries, children have a markedly compliant thorax making them vulnerable to intrathoracic injury without overlying bony injury. It is crucial to be vigilant while evaluating children with blunt trauma injuries. The pediatric mediastinum is also very mobile allowing it to be shifted with much less intrathoracic pressure. Susceptibility to tension pneumothorax or hemothorax is much greater and these injuries must be treated promptly. This mobility, however, does make it less susceptible to major vascular or airway injuries. Thoracic trauma in children is a marker for the presence of associated injuries, found in more than 50% of these children. Children are much less likely to have concomitant systemic illnesses compromising their respiratory and cardiovascular reserves. This allows lower morbidity and mortality rates with aggressive medical therapy and faster recovery from injury.
Seeking Clearer Recommendations for Hand Hygiene in Communities Facing Ebola: A Randomized Trial Investigating the Impact of Six Handwashing Methods on Skin Irritation and Dermatitis.

To prevent disease transmission, 0.05% chlorine solution is commonly recommended for handwashing in Ebola Treatment Units. In the 2014 West Africa outbreak this recommendation was widely extended to community settings, although many organizations recommend soap and hand sanitizer over chlorine. To evaluate skin irritation caused by frequent handwashing that may increase transmission risk in Ebola-affected communities, we conducted a randomized trial with 91 subjects who washed their hands 10 times a day for 28 days. Subjects used soap and water, sanitizer, or one of four chlorine solutions used by Ebola responders (calcium hypochlorite (HTH), sodium dichloroisocyanurate (NaDCC), and generated or pH-stabilized sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl)). Outcomes were self-reported hand feel, irritation as measured by the Hand Eczema Score Index (HECSI) (range 0–360), signs of transmission risk (e.g., cracking), and dermatitis diagnosis. All groups experienced statistically significant increases in HECSI score. Subjects using sanitizer had the smallest increases, followed by higher pH chlorine solutions (HTH and stabilized NaOCl), and soap and water. The greatest increases were among neutral pH chlorine solutions (NaDCC and generated NaOCl). Signs of irritation related to higher transmission risk were observed most frequently in subjects using soap and least frequently by those using sanitizer or HTH. Despite these irritation increases, all methods represented minor changes in HECSI score. Average HECSI score was only 9.10 at endline (range 1–33) and 4% (4/91) of subjects were diagnosed with dermatitis, one each in four groups. Each handwashing method has benefits and drawbacks: soap is widely available and inexpensive, but requires water and does not inactivate the virus; sanitizer is easy-to use and effective but expensive and unacceptable to many communities, and chlorine is easy-to-use but difficult to produce properly and distribute. Overall, we recommend Ebola responders and communities use whichever handwashing method(s) are most acceptable, available, and sustainable for community handwashing. Trial Registration: International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Registry ISRCTN89815514
Repeat Biopsy of IgG4-Related Ophthalmic Disease Identifies Superimposed Herpes Simplex Virus Infection: A Case Report.

To the Editor:We report a case of IgG4-related ophthalmic disease (IgG4-ROD1) in a patient who initially presented with painless, full-thickness growth of the left eyelid that was nonresponsive to ...