cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
2‐Trimethylsilyloxy‐1,3‐butadiene

[38053-91-7] C7H14OSi (MW 142.30) InChI = 1S/C7H14OSi/c1-6-7(2)8-9(3,4)5/h6H,1-2H2,3-5H3 InChIKey = JOAPBVRQZQYKMS-UHFFFAOYSA-N (easily prepared1 reactive diene for Diels–Alder reactions2-40 and other cycloadditions;41-44 reactive silyl enol ether for aldol, Michael reactions, and electrophilic additions45, 46) Physical Data: bp 50–55 °C/50 mmHg; d 0.811 g cm−3. Solubility: sol most standard organic solvents. Form Supplied in: liquid available commercially. Preparative Method: can be prepared easily from methyl vinyl ketone.1 Handling, Storage, and Precautions: is a flammable liquid and is moisture sensitive.
Comparison of electrofishing and trammel netting variability for sampling native fishes

The variability in size structure and relative abundance (CPUE; number of fish ≥200 mm total length, LT, collected per hour of electrofishing or trammel netting) of three native Colorado River fishes, the endangered humpback chub Gila cypha, flannelmouth sucker Catostomus latipinnus and bluehead sucker Catostomus discobolus, collected from electrofishing and trammel nets was assessed to determine which gear was most appropriate to detect trends in relative abundance of adult fishes. Coefficient of variation (CV) of CPUE ranged from 210 to 566 for electrofishing and 128 to 575 for trammel netting, depending on season, diel period and species. Mean CV was lowest for trammel nets for humpback chub (P = 0·004) and tended to be lower for flannelmouth sucker (P = 0·12), regardless of season or diel period. Only one bluehead sucker >200 mm was collected with electrofishing. Electrofishing and trammel netting CPUE were not related for humpback chub (r = −0·32, P = 0·43) or flannelmouth sucker (r = −0·27, P = 0·46) in samples from the same date, location and hour set. Electrofishing collected a higher proportion of smaller (<200 mm LT) humpback chub (P < 0·001), flannelmouth suckers (P < 0·001) and bluehead suckers (P < 0·001) than trammel netting, suggesting that conclusions derived from one gear may not be the same as from the other gear. This is probably because these gears fished different habitats, which are occupied by different fish life stages. To detect a 25% change in CPUE at a power of 0·9, at least 473 trammel net sets or 1918 electrofishing samples would be needed in this 8 km reach. This unattainable amount of samples for both trammel netting and electrofishing indicates that detecting annual changes in CPUE may not be practical and analysis of long-term data or stock assessment models using mark-recapture methods may be needed to assess trends in abundance of Colorado River native fishes, and probably other rare fishes as well.
Inhibition of spermatogenesis, motility and metabolic enzymes of sperm by gossypol

Available data about gossypol a potential male antifertility agent explain its inhibition of spermatogenesis and possible mechanism of action. Spermatogenesis in rats has been inhibited by gossypol with no adverse effects on Leydig cells or Sertoli cells. The degree of damage to rat testes seminiferous epithelium was dose and duration related. Opinion varies regarding the site and mechanism of gossypols antifertility action. Early studies suggested an inhibition of the development of the spermatozoal nucleus and acrosome indicating a site of action for gossypol at the level of the testes but not the epididymis. Other studies did not confirm spermatozoal head defects but rather showed lesions in the spermatozoa tail in the epididymis. This discrepancy may indicate differences in spermatozoa response to gossypol with various mature stages. Other studies with rats and guinea pigs indicated an inhibitory action of gossypol preventing epididymal spermatozoa from attaining maturation. No consensus about the nature or site of gossypols antifertility action has been reached. In men the 1st effect of gossypol is a rapid loss of spermatozoa motility followed by a reduction of spermatozoa count. This decreased motility resulted from a reduction in energy supply through inhibition of glycolysis and the respiratory chain and the uncoupling of oxidative phosphorylation and reduction in ATP synthesis. The influence of gossypol on the tubulin-dynein system has recently been investigated in sea urchins. Gossypol has also been shown to inhibit the activity of several enzymes involved in energy metabolism including several dehydrogenases. Gossypol also decreased adenylate cyclase activity and inhibited fructolysis in human spermatozoa. Oral administration of gossypol at 12-30 mg/kg/day for 5-12 weeks induced infertility in rats hamsters guinea pigs dogs monkeys and men.
Melanistic Gray Squirrels in Cameron County, Pennsylvania

Several studies of the gray squirrel have been made in the eastern states, but relatively little attention has been given to wild populations of the northern gray squirrel, Sciurus carolinensis leucotis , where the melanistic color phase was common. Perhaps nowhere within the gray squirrel's present range is the black squirrel more prevalent than in certain regions of Pennsylvania. It was for this reason that our squirrel studies in the Ridge and Valley Province of the state, where the melanistic phase was not encountered, were expanded to include a study of a gray-black squirrel population in Cameron County, Pennsylvania. Forests in Cameron County are typical high country types—beech-birch-maple and transition hardwoods—and it is within these types that the black squirrel finds its optimum habitat. When observed in the field under most light conditions, these squirrels appear black. But upon live-trapping and handling melanistic gray squirrels, it was apparent that the intensity of blackness varied among individuals. Pure black squirrels were objects of rare beauty when encountered in full winter pelage. The purpose of this paper is to report not only on the color phases of the melanistic gray squirrel, but to discuss something of its history in Cameron County, the ratio of blacks to grays in a wild population, the sex ratio, general range and ecology. Historical accounts .—The most comprehensive report of the decline of black squirrels in regions where they were once abundant is the historical account by Schorger (1949) according to which the black squirrel was formerly present in New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan and Wisconsin. It is now restricted to reduced portions of the northernmost limits of its former range. From the mid-Appalachian Plateau and High Mountain provinces in West Virginia and Pennsylvania the present range of the melanistic gray squirrel …
Survival of Hessian Fly (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) Puparia Exposed to Simulated Hay Harvest Conditions, Location and Windrow Drying in Washington and California

Hessian fly, Mayetiola destructor (Say) (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) puparia are of regulatory concern in exported hay, and drying after harvest was evaluated as a cultural control technique for bales shipped from the western states. In total 16,836; 31,122; and 48,051 puparia were tested under drying conditions in environmental chambers, open air on location, and hay windrows, respectively. Regression lines for percentage of total adults emerging from puparia exposed to simulated drying conditions for 1–7 d in environmental chambers was significant for 1 September, Kittitas Valley, WA; 3 June, East Columbia Basin, WA; 15 May and 15 July, San Joaquin Valley, CA; and 15 May, 20 July, and 15 September, Imperial Valley, CA. In open air drying on location for 1–7 d, total percentage of puparia surviving to adults for all exposure days was 0.4% for 18 June, Kittitas Valley; 1.2% for 15 May, San Joaquin Valley; and 0% for 16 July, Imperial Valley; and significantly different between controls and exposure durations. In hay windrow drying for 1–6 d, total percentage of puparia surviving to adults for all exposure days was 5.4% on 28 June and 24.2% on 7 September in timothy, Phleum pretense, in the Kittitas Valley; 3.8% on 28 June in timothy in the East Columbia Basin; 2.2% on 20 July in alfalfa, Medicago sativa, in the San Joaquin Valley; and 6.3% on 21 July in Sudan grass, Sorghum bicolor sudanensis, in the Imperial Valley. The number of puparia surviving to adults in open air drying and in windrows was significantly different between controls and exposure durations for all test dates and locations. Puparial survival in field tests was related to mild temperatures and high humidities. Hay drying with subsequent field baling, storage, and export bale compression is discussed in relation to a systems approach for quarantine control of Hessian fly in exported hay.
Biochemical and Molecular Characterization of ACH2, an Acyl-CoA Thioesterase from Arabidopsis thaliana

By using computer-based homology searches of the Arabidopsis genome, we identified the gene for ACH2, a putative acyl-CoA thioesterase. With the exception of a unique 129-amino acid N-terminal extension, the ACH2 protein is 17-36% identical to members of a family of acyl-CoA thioesterases that are found in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes. The eukaryotic homologs of ACH2 are peroxisomal acyl-CoA thioesterases that are up-regulated during times of increased fatty acid oxidation, suggesting potential roles in peroxisomal beta-oxidation. We investigated ACH2 to determine whether it has a similar role in the plant cell. Like its eukaryotic homologs, ACH2 carries a putative type 1 peroxisomal targeting sequence (-SKL(COOH)), and maintains all the catalytic residues typical of this family of acyl-CoA thioesterases. Analytical ultracentrifugation of recombinant ACH2-6His shows that it associates as a 196-kDa homotetramer in vitro, a result that is significant in light of the cooperative kinetics demonstrated by ACH2-6His in vitro. The cooperative effects are most pronounced with medium chain acyl-CoAs, where the Hill coefficient is 3.8 for lauroyl-CoA, but decrease for long chain acyl-CoAs, where the Hill coefficient is only 1.9 for oleoyl-CoA. ACH2-6His hydrolyzes both medium and long chain fatty acyl-CoAs but has highest activity toward the long chain unsaturated fatty acyl-CoAs. Maximum rates were found with palmitoleoyl-CoA, which is hydrolyzed at 21 micromol/min/mg protein. Additionally, ACH2-6His is insensitive to feedback inhibition by free CoASH levels as high as 100 microm. ACH2 is most highly expressed in mature tissues such as young leaves and flowers rather than in germinating seedlings where beta-oxidation is rapidly proceeding. Taken together, these results suggest that ACH2 activity is not linked to fatty acid oxidation as has been suggested for its eukaryotic homologs, but rather has a unique role in the plant cell.
Structure-based design, synthesis, and pharmacologic evaluation tf peptide RGS4 inhibitors

Regulators of G-protein signaling (RGS) proteins form a multifunctional signaling family. A key role of RGS proteins is binding to the G-protein Galpha-subunit and acting as GTPase-activating proteins (GAPs), thereby rapidly terminating G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling. Using the published RGS4-Gialpha1 X-ray structure we have designed and synthesized a series of cyclic peptides, modeled on the Gialpha Switch I region, that inhibit RGS4 GAP activity. These compounds should prove useful for elucidating RGS-mediated activity and serve as a starting point for the development of a novel class of therapeutic agent.
Gastrointestinal development and meeting the nutritional needs of premature infants

The fear of necrotizing enterocolitis and feeding intolerance are major factors inhibiting the use of the enteral route as the primary means of nourishing premature infants. Parenteral nutrition may help to meet many of the nutritional needs of these infants, but has significant detrimental side effects that include intestinal atrophy, sepsis, and increased susceptibility to inflammatory stimuli and systemic inflammatory responses. Being able to minimize the use of the parenteral route and still maintain appropriate nutrition safely would be a major advance in neonatology. At the basis of our inability to use the enteral route is a poorly understood immature gastrointestinal tract. Approaches such as minimal enteral nutrition or trophic feedings may partially alleviate these problems. However, if we are to progress in greater utilization of the gastrointestinal tract, other factors need to be considered. These include the macronutrient composition of minimal enteral or trophic feedings and the microecology of the intestinal lumen. Some of the developmental aspects of the intestine, which include intestinal growth, motor activity, barrier and other innate immune functions, and the microecology of the developing intestine, are briefly reviewed here. The purpose of this review is to suggest important areas of future research in neonatal and developmental gastroenterology that could affect several conditions that are related to immaturity of the gastrointestinal tract.
Forecasting Future Land Use for Watershed Assessment

: Protecting surface water quality in watersheds undergoing demographic change requires both the management of existing threats and planning to address potential future stresses arising from changing land use. Many reservoirs and threatened waterbodies are located in areas undergoing rapid population growth, and increases in density of residential and commercial land use, accompanied by increased amount of impervious surface area, can result in increased pollutant loading and degradation of water quality. Effective planning to address potential threats, including zoning and growth management, requires analytical tools to predict and compare the impacts of different management options. The focus of this paper is not on developing demographic projections, but rather the translation of such projections into changes in land use which form the basis for assessment of future watershed loads. Land use change can be forecast at a variety of spatial and temporal scales. A semi-lumped, GIS-based, transition matrix approach is recommended as consistent with the level of complexity achievable in most watershed models. Practical aspects of forecasting future land use for watershed assessment are discussed. Several recent reservoir water supply projection studies are used to demonstrate a general framework for simulating changes in land use and resulting impacts on water quality. In addition to providing a technical basis for selecting optimal management alternatives, such a tool is invaluable for demonstrating to different stakeholder groups the trade-offs among management alternatives, both in terms of water quality and future land use patterns within the watershed.
Performance analysis of turbo codes

We apply transfer function bounding techniques to obtain upper bounds on the bit error rate for maximum likelihood decoding of turbo codes constructed with random permutations. These techniques are applied to two turbo codes with constraint length 3 and later extended to other codes. The performance predicted by these bounds is compared with simulation results. The bounds are useful in estimating the "error floor" that is difficult to measure by simulation, and they provide insights on how to lower this floor. More refined bounds are needed for accurate performance measures at lower signal-to-noise ratios.
Valuing Indigenous Knowledges: Strategies for Engaging Communities and Transforming the Academy

This article presents steps taken by Penn State's Interinstitutional Consortium for Indigenous Knowledge (ICIK) to engage communities and transform the academy. ICIK provides opportunities for faculty, staff, and students to network with others who share a vision of the academy as a place where multiple ways of knowing are valued and respected. Three questions have dominated the transformation agenda:(a) How do communities negotiate and connect various knowledge systems in order to address local/global concerns? (b) What can the global community and academic institutions learn from indigenous knowledge innovations? (c) How do we integrate and internalize a local knowledge orientation within academic institutions? Institutionalization of knowledge production, validation,and distribution in universities and research laboratories characterizes the academy. This academic way of knowing contrasts with indigenous knowledge that resides in a particular locality, is derived from many years of experience, and is usually communicated orally through family members across generations.
Carbon Footprints for Public Transportation Agencies in Florida

Under sponsorship of the Florida Department of Transportation, a study was conducted to measure the carbon footprint for Florida's public transit agencies. The state's 31 public transportation agencies were contacted to obtain data. With the Climate Registry's general reporting protocol (GRP), the research team calculated emissions on the basis of the provided data. The research team found that carbon dioxide emissions from revenue vehicles accounted for 82.5% of a typical agency's emissions (86.5% if weighted by footprint size). The balance of the footprint included trace emissions from vehicle operations; emissions from purchased electricity; emissions from operating nonrevenue vehicles; emissions from fuel used to heat, operate, and maintain facilities; and refrigerants lost from vehicle and building air-conditioning systems. Refrigerant losses accounted for about 5% of a typical agency's footprint. Data on losses were the most difficult to collect. The collected data were estimated to account for 75% ...
A mechanosensory system governs myosin II accumulation in dividing cells

The mitotic spindle is generally considered the initiator of furrow ingression. However, recent studies suggest that furrows can form without spindles, particularly during asymmetric cell division. In Dictyostelium, the mechanoenzyme myosin II and the actin cross-linker cortexillin I form a mechanosensor that responds to mechanical stress, which could account for spindle-independent contractile protein recruitment. Here we show that the regulatory and contractility network composed of myosin II, cortexillin I, IQGAP2, kinesin-6 (kif12), and inner centromeric protein (INCENP) is a mechanical stress–responsive system. Myosin II and cortexillin I form the core mechanosensor, and mechanotransduction is mediated by IQGAP2 to kif12 and INCENP. In addition, IQGAP2 is antagonized by IQGAP1 to modulate the mechanoresponsiveness of the system, suggesting a possible mechanism for discriminating between mechanical and biochemical inputs. Furthermore, IQGAP2 is important for maintaining spindle morphology and kif12 and myosin II cleavage furrow recruitment. Cortexillin II is not directly involved in myosin II mechanosensitive accumulation, but without cortexillin I, cortexillin II's role in membrane–cortex attachment is revealed. Finally, the mitotic spindle is dispensable for the system. Overall, this mechanosensory system is structured like a control system characterized by mechanochemical feedback loops that regulate myosin II localization at sites of mechanical stress and the cleavage furrow.
Evaluation of Glycolytic and Citric Acid Cycles in Homogenates of Dystrophic Mouse Muscle.

SummaryThe intactness of the glycolytic cycle was evaluated in homogenates of dystrophic mouse muscle, and contrasted with their normal littermates. The cycle, as measured by lactic acid production, appeared to operate efficiently. Similarly, the citric acid cycle was tested by measuring O2 consumption of mitochondrial and microsomal suspensions derived from normal and abnormal mouse muscle. This cycle also seemed intact. Preliminary experiments with liver homogenates suggested that both cycles were unimpaired in dystrophic mice.
Modeling major lung resection outcomes using classification trees and multiple imputation techniques

Objective: Modeling of operative risks associated with major lung resection is potentially inaccurate and inefficient because of incomplete observationsforpredictorvariables(covariates).Missingvaluesdonotusuallyoccurrandomly,potentiallyintroducinganimportantsourceofbias in modeling. Deletion of cases with missing data also results in loss of precision. The current study analyzes incomplete variables as potential predictors of outcomes after major lung resection using imputation techniques. Methods: We analyzed major lung resection patients treated from 1980 to 2006 for predictors of pulmonary, cardiovascular, and overall complications, as well as mortality. Predictive variables were initially determined using classification and regression tree (CART) methods. Imputation models were developed and variables with missing values were multiply imputed. We fit a logistic regression model for each outcome using CART variables and any covariates that were of interest clinically. Results: Of 1046 resected patients, serum albumin and diffusing capacity (DLCO%) had a large number of missing values (32% and 13% missing, respectively). Models included 10 covariates for pulmonary complications (p < 0.05 for DLCO% and forced expiratory volume in the first second [FEV1%]), 12 covariates for cardiovascular complications (p < 0.05 for FEV1%, extent of resection, year of operation, and age), 15 covariates for overall complications (p < 0.05 for DLCO%, performance status, serum albumin, and FEV1/FVC ratio), and 12 covariates for death (p < 0.05 for DLCO%, extent of resection, and operation year). Conclusions: We identified serum albumin as a previously under-reported and strong predictor of overall complications. Serum albumin was marginally significantly related to pulmonary and cardiovascular outcomes after major lung surgery. Use of imputation techniques for modeling surgical risks has potential value in identifying important predictive variables that may ordinarily be eliminated from analysis or not identified as predictors because of incomplete observations in clinical databases. # 2008 European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Algorithms for mixture models

Mixture models form one of the most fundamental classes of generative models for clustered data. Specific application examples include text classification problems, image segmentation and motion detection, collaborative filtering and many others. However, quite surprisingly, very little had been known about algorithms which have provable performance guarantees within the framework of mixture models. This is the topic we study in this work. Our contribution is twofold. First, for the canonical problem of separating mixtures of continuous distributions in the high-dimensional Euclidean space, we provide the first algorithm that can learn distributions with heavy tails, including those with infinite variance and expectation. We formulate necessary conditions and provide an algorithm which guarantees that the underlying mixture model can be learned by observing only polynomially many samples. We also show that for many classes of distributions, our separation conditions are necessary for any algorithm which guarantees accurate reconstruction. Second for the case of discrete mixture models we give an efficient polynomial time algorithm with provable performance guarantees. Recasting of our algorithm for the text classification problem immediately results in a very fast unsupervised learning method, with an excellent classification accuracy.
Novel putative SREBP and LXR target genes identified by microarray analysis in liver of cholesterol-fed mice

High-cholesterol diets elicit changes in gene expression via such transcription factors as sterol-regulatory element binding proteins (SREBPs) and liver X receptors (LXRs). We used Affymetrix microarrays to identify genes in mouse liver regulated by dietary cholesterol (0.0% vs. 0.5% cholesterol wt/wt). Three independent experiments were performed, and data were analyzed with Affymetrix Microarray Suite and ANOVA statistical software. There were 69 unique Unigene clusters consistently regulated by dietary cholesterol (37 downregulated and 32 upregulated). The array results were confirmed by quantitative RT-PCR (Q-PCR) for seven of nine downregulated genes and five of six upregulated genes. A time course of dietary cholesterol feeding over 1 week revealed different temporal patterns of gene regulation for these confirmed genes. Six downregulated genes were examined in transgenic mice overexpressing truncated nuclear forms of SREBP-1a and SREBP-2, and all were induced in these mice. A second microarray analysis of mice treated with the LXR agonist TO901317 confirmed that 13 of the 32 cholesterol upregulated genes were also LXR-activated. This array result was confirmed by Q-PCR for three of three genes. In summary, these studies identified and confirmed six novel dietary cholesterol-regulated genes, three putative SREBP target genes (calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase 1D, fatty acid binding protein 5, and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin 9), and three putative LXR target genes (a disintegrin and metalloprotease domain 11, apoptosis-inhibitory 6, and F-box-only protein 3).
An Experimental Comparison of Induced and Elicited Beliefs

Understanding choice under risk requires knowledge of beliefs and preferences. A variety of methods have been proposed to elicit peoples’ beliefs. The efficacy of alternative methods, however, has not been rigorously documented. Herein we use an experiment to test whether an induced probability can be recovered using an elicitation mechanism based on peoples’ predictions about a random event. We are unable to recover the induced belief. Instead, the estimated belief is systematically biased in a way that is consistent with anecdotal evidence in the economics, psychology, and statistics literature: people seem to overestimate low and underestimate high probabilities.
Welcome to Riemannian Computing in Computer Vision

The computer vision community has registered a strong progress over the last few years due to: (1) improved sensor technology, (2) increased computation power, and (3) sophisticated statistical tools. Another important innovation, albeit relatively less visible, has been the involvement of differential geometry in developing vision frameworks. Its importance stems from the fact that despite large sizes of vision data (images and videos), the actual interpretable variability lies on much lower-dimensional manifolds of observation spaces. Additionally, natural constraints in mathematical representations of variables and desired invariances in vision-related problems also lead to inferences on relevant nonlinear manifolds. Riemannian computing in computer vision (RCCV) is the scientific area that integrates tools from Riemannian geometry and statistics to develop theoretical and computational solutions in computer vision. Tools from RCCV has led to important developments in low-level feature extraction, mid-level object characterization, and high-level semantic interpretation of data. In this chapter we provide background material from differential geometry, examples of manifolds commonly encountered in vision applications, and a short summary of past and recent developments in RCCV. We also summarize and categorize contributions of the remaining chapters in this volume.
Interventions for Women With Postpartum Depression Symptoms An Integrative Literature Review for Human Resource Development

Using the stress-buffering hypothesis as a guide, this integrative review aims to identify how human resource development (HRD) professionals can address the issues faced by working women who are e...
Experimental investigation of upstream flame propagation during boundary layer flashback of swirl flames

Abstract Boundary layer flashback of swirling turbulent lean-premixed methane–hydrogen–air flames is investigated in a model combustor featuring a mixing tube with center body. The focus of our work is on improving the understanding of the flow–flame interaction during flashback. We combine high-speed chemiluminescence imaging, stereoscopic and tomographic particle image velocimetry, and a three-dimensional flame front reconstruction technique to reveal the time-resolved, volumetric velocity field in the vicinity of the flame front during flashback. We find two different ways in which a flame front propagates upstream along the center body wall. The first mode concerns small-scale bulges counter-propagating into the approach flow, similar to channel-flow flashback, but is found not to be a dominant propagation mechanism. Instead, flashback occurs primarily in the form of large-scale flame tongues swirling in the bulk flow direction as they propagate upstream. The approach flow is modified significantly in both cases, but the scale and nature of the resulting velocity fields differ fundamentally. A key characteristic of the approach flow found previously, both in channel and swirl flame flashback, is regions of negative axial velocity upstream of the flame front. We reveal, however, that in the case of swirl flames the region of negative axial velocity is the result of a primarily swirling motion ahead of the leading flame tongue in contrast to the reverse flow pockets ahead of small-scale bulges. The boundary layer neither separates nor does fluid recirculate in the negative axial velocity region upstream of the flame tongues. Instead, flame tongues impose a local blockage effect causing significant deflection of the approach flow, which results in a constant region of negative axial velocity for the leading side of the flame tongue to propagate into.
Current status of HIV/AIDS epidemic and prevention strategy in Zhaotong

Objective Anticipate the trends of HIV/AIDS transmission and develope corresponding strategy for the disease control and prevention through better understanding of the current status of epidemic feature and impact factors.Methods Statistical analysis of HIV/AIDS infectious and surveillance report and epidemiological data from 1996 to 2010.Results By the end of 2010,Zhaotong had 1619 known HIV/AIDS virus carriers,of whom there were 309 AIDS patients and 186 people died of AIDS,Sexual transmission has replaced intravenous drug useas the main cause of HIV/AIDS in Zhaotong,accounting for 39.87% of infections,with 44.09% of migrant workers.Conclusion Sexual contact continues to be the major route of disease transmission.The largest group of HIV infections is migrant workers in zhaotong.Currently the key to the prevention and disease control is to raise their awareness among migrant workers about HIV/AIDS and teach them preventive measures.
In vitro amplification,cloning of Mycobaterium tuberculosis ESAT-6 gene and its expresson in Mycobacterium smegmatis mc~2 155

To amplify ESAT-6 gene of Mycobaterium tuberculosis and construct E.coli-Mycobacterium shuttle plasmid ps3000-ESAT-6 and recombinant M.smegmatis mc2 155. The ESAT-6 gene was amplified from the genomic DNA by polymerase chain reaction in vitro. And the cloning vector pGEMT-ESAT-6 and shuttle vector ps3000-ESAT-6 which was transformed into M.smegmatis mc2 155 by electroporation. The recombinant M.smegmatis mc2 155 was induced by heating, and then the expression and activity of the target protein were determined by SDS-PAGE and immunoblotting. The ESAT-6 gene was amplified from the genomic DNA by polymerase chain reaction. And shuttle vector ps3000-ESAT-6 was correctly construced. The target protein could be expressed and recognized by the mice antiserum against the purified protein pET-ESAT-6. It was demonstrated that the recombinant M.smegmatis mc2 155 could expressed the target protein with biologic activity.In conclusion, the recombinant M.smegmatis mc2 155 was successfully constructed and pave the way for further study of recombinant BCG vaccine expressing ESAT-6 protein.
Some Recent Developments in Laser Interferometry

An account is given of some new interferometric developments which can be used to improve the performance of the laser interferometer as a position sensing device. The first of these developments, termed the double pass attachment, is an optical accessory which doubles the resolution of the Hewlett-Packard linear and plane mirror interferometers. Unlike previous attempts to extend resolution optically, this device does not fold one of the two interfering beams and hence does not introduce error due to its own motion. The simple addition of a quarter wave plate to the attachment can be used to give a differential version of the plane mirror interferometer. Various configurations of this differential interferometer, and their application to machine tool and integrated circuit lithographic and inspection equipment, are discussed. A new “wavelength tracking” device, based on differential interferometry, is described. This device directly and precisely monitors changes in laser wavelength inside a highly stable mechanical cavity. It can be easily incorporated, as an additional interferometer axis, into precision machines to give superior compensation for changes in laser wavelength.
Gay Men's Perspectives on HIV Prevention and Treatment in Berlin, Germany: Lessons for Policy and Prevention

ABSTRACTQualitative data from interviews with gay men in Berlin, Germany were used to identify challenges facing HIV prevention and treatment as well as opportunities to improve them. In 2015, 20 self-identified gay men in Berlin—who had all received HIV prevention services and/or treatment (broadly defined)—participated in 1-on-1 qualitative interviews (30–75 min long). Ages ranged from 24 to 54, 35% self-identified as HIV-positive, and the remainder as HIV-negative. With regard to challenges to HIV prevention, participants highlighted (a) an already high HIV burden among gay men in Berlin and thus a need for doing prevention with positives (test-and-treat, and treatment as prevention); (b) the lack of a universal free condom distribution program; and (c) relaxed attitudes around the seriousness of HIV as a result of HIV treatment optimism. Participants highlighted that although condoms are an effective HIV prevention strategy (and thus certainly an area for focus), HIV prevention campaigns would benefit...
Association of Same-Day Discharge With Hospital Readmission After Appendectomy in Pediatric Patients

Importance Appendectomy is the most common abdominal operation performed in pediatric patients in the United States. Studies in adults have suggested that same-day discharge (SDD) after appendectomy is safe and does not result in higher-than-expected hospital readmissions. Objective To evaluate the influence of SDD on 30-day readmission rates following appendectomy for acute appendicitis in pediatric patients. Design, Setting, and Participants This retrospective cohort study used the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program–Pediatric database to evaluate 30-day readmission rates among pediatric patients who underwent an appendectomy for acute, nonperforated appendicitis. The database provides high-quality surgical outcomes data from more than 80 participating US hospitals, including free-standing pediatric facilities, children’s hospitals, specialty centers, children's units within adult hospitals, and general acute care hospitals with a pediatric wing. Patients selected for inclusion (n = 22 771) were between ages 0 and 17 years and underwent appendectomy for uncomplicated appendicitis between January 1, 2012, and December 31, 2015. Patients excluded were those discharged more than 2 days after surgery. Exposures Same-day discharge after appendectomy or discharge 1 or 2 days after surgery. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome was 30-day readmission. Secondary outcomes included surgical-site infections and other wound complications. Results Of the 20 981 patients, 4662 (22.2%) had SDD and 16 319 (77.8%) were discharged within 1 or 2 days after surgery. The patient cohort included 12 860 boys (61.3%) and 8121 girls (38.7%), with a mean (SD) age of 11.0 (3.56) years. There was no difference in the odds of readmission for patients with SDD compared with those discharged within 2 days (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.82; 95% CI, 0.51-1.04;P = .06; readmission rate, 1.89% vs 2.33%). There was no significant difference in reason for readmission on the basis of discharge timing. Likewise, there was no difference in wound complication rate between patients with SDD and those discharged 1 or 2 days after surgery (aOR 0.75; 95% CI, 0.56-1.01;P = .06). Conclusions and Relevance In pediatric patients with acute appendicitis undergoing appendectomy, SDD is not associated with an increase in 30-day hospital readmission rates or wound complications when compared with discharge 1 or 2 days after surgery. Same-day discharge may be an applicable quality metric for the provision of safe and efficient care for pediatric patients with acute, nonperforated appendicitis.
Choroidal Arterial Occlusive Disorders

Having previously given the background information on the physiological anatomy of the choroidal vasculature (HAYREH, 1976), I would like very briefly to discuss the various lesions seen in choroidal arterial occlusive disorders. These I have discussed in detail elsewhere (HAYREH, 1974a, b, 1975a, b;Hayreh & Baines, 1972a, b). The choroid supplies the overlying pigment epithelium and the outer retina, which comprises the layer of rods and cones, the outer nuclear and plexiform layers, and the whole thickness of the foveal retina. In eyes with a cilioretinal artery, a variable area of the inner retina is also supplied. Although the peripapillary choroid also takes part in the blood supply of the anterior part of the optic nerve, I do not propose to discuss nerve lesions here, as I have dealt with them at length elsewhere (HAYREH, 1975b).
Efficient pebble game algorithms engineered for protein rigidity applications

Pebble game rigidity analysis is an efficient method for extracting rigidity and flexibility information of biomolecules without performing costly molecular dynamics simulations. The standard algorithm works on a multi-graph associated to a mechanical model constructed from an arbitrary atom-bond network. Motivated by large scale protein flexibility and simulated unfolding applications, we have developed a faster and more robust variation tailored to the specificities of bio-polymers. We describe this new phased pebble game as implemented in the new version of our software Kinari-2.
Cost variation and opportunities for cost reduction for laparoscopic cholecystectomy

Abstract Background We performed 163 laparoscopic cholecystectomies at our institution during the third quarter of 2016. Direct supply cost per case varied from $524 to $1,022 among 14 surgeons. The purpose of this study was to determine the reasons for cost variation between high- and low-cost surgeons and identify opportunities for cost reduction. Methods Average cost of supplies per case was examined for laparoscopic cholecystectomy during a 6-month period. Two groups were created, with the 4 highest-cost surgeons comprising group A and the 2 lowest-cost surgeons comprising group B. The cost for each item was identified, and utilization was compared between groups. Results The average supply cost per case in group A was significantly greater than group B ($930 vs. $518). The difference persisted in subgroup analyses of both inpatients and patients with high American Society of Anesthesiologists scores. Compared with group A, surgeons in group B used reusable instruments more often and tended to choose lower-cost disposables. Conclusions Significant variation in direct cost exists between surgeons performing laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Much of the cost difference can be accounted for by a relatively small number of high-cost instruments. We identified areas for cost savings by substituting lesser cost alternatives without compromising the quality of patient care.
Outcomes of Tracheostomy With Concomitant and Delayed Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy in the Neuroscience Critical Care Unit.

Background:In patients with severe neurologic conditions, percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is typically performed either alone or with a tracheostomy. The characteristics and outcomes of p...
TRAF6 Mediates Basal Activation of NF-κB Necessary for Hematopoietic Stem Cell Homeostasis.

Summary Basal nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) activation is required for hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) homeostasis in the absence of inflammation; however, the upstream mediators of basal NF-κB signaling are less well understood. Here, we describe TRAF6 as an essential regulator of HSC homeostasis through basal activation of NF-κB. Hematopoietic-specific deletion of Traf6 resulted in impaired HSC self-renewal and fitness. Gene expression, RNA splicing, and molecular analyses of Traf6-deficient hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs) revealed changes in adaptive immune signaling, innate immune signaling, and NF-κB signaling, indicating that signaling via TRAF6 in the absence of cytokine stimulation and/or infection is required for HSC function. In addition, we established that loss of IκB kinase beta (IKKβ)-mediated NF-κB activation is responsible for the major hematopoietic defects observed in Traf6-deficient HSPC as deletion of IKKβ similarly resulted in impaired HSC self-renewal and fitness. Taken together, TRAF6 is required for HSC homeostasis by maintaining a minimal threshold level of IKKβ/NF-κB signaling.
Catechol-O-methyltransferase Val158Met polymorphism associates with affect and cortisol levels in women.

Introduction We tested the extent to which the catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) Val158Met polymorphism is associated with affective state and evening cortisol levels. We limited our study to women as previous research suggests that the link between COMT genotype and psychological health is entangled by sex differences. Materials and Methods The participants were assessed on measures of anxiety, mood disturbance, depressive symptomatology, and perceived stress. We also evaluated participants on a quality of life measures that included two emotion domains and two physical domains (physical health and environment). Results We found that under normal (nonstress) conditions, the COMT A allele (Met carriers, higher dopamine) associates with healthier affect and lower afternoon cortisol levels in women. These effects were limited to affective measures and not to physical or environmental quality of life. Conclusions These findings help to shed light on the complex nature of COMT and emotion, and suggest that both sex and task condition (stress vs. nonstress) should be considered when examining the relationship between COMT genotype and emotion.
Association of Continued Preoperative Aspirin Use and Bleeding Complications in Patients Undergoing Thyroid Surgery.

Importance No evidence exists to direct the management of preoperative aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) use in patients undergoing thyroid surgery. Nevertheless, a considerable number of patients interrupt receiving aspirin therapy during the preoperative period to minimize bleeding complications despite the increased risk of experiencing major adverse cardiac events. Objective To determine whether aspirin therapy continued preoperatively increases bleeding complications in patients undergoing thyroid surgery. Design, Setting, and Participants Retrospective analysis of a consecutive sample of 570 patients, aged 18 to 100 years, who underwent thyroid surgery for benign and malignant disease from January 1, 2010, to December 31, 2015, by a single surgeon at a tertiary referral hospital center in New Orleans, Louisiana. Exposures Patients receiving aspirin therapy and patients not receiving aspirin therapy (aspirin naive) preoperatively. Main Outcomes and Measures Comparison of estimated blood loss, substantial blood loss, operative hematoma, nonoperative hematoma, and recurrent laryngeal nerve injury. Results Of 570 patients who underwent thyroid surgery, 106 (18.6%) were performed in patients receiving aspirin; of these, 23 (21.7%) were men and 105 (99.1%) were older than 45 years. Those receiving aspirin therapy displayed a 14.4-year difference in age (95% CI, 11.6-17.1). The aspirin group displayed a 20.3% absolute increase (95% CI, 9.3-30.7) in African American patients. Aspirin therapy was not associated with a statistically significant or clinically meaningful increase in intraoperative blood loss (2.5 mL; 95% CI, –0.4 to 5.3). Aspirin therapy was associated with a statistically significant increase in total hematoma formation (3.3%; 95% CI, 0.4-9.0), but the results were inconclusive. Aspirin therapy was not associated with a statistically significant increase in recurrent laryngeal nerve injury (2.6%; 95% CI, –1.1 to 8.6), but the results were inconclusive. Conclusions and Relevance These results suggest that aspirin therapy can be maintained prior to thyroid surgery without increased intraoperative bleeding. Further research with a larger sample size and more outcome events are required to make definitive conclusions regarding the association between aspirin use and complications, including hematoma and recurrent laryngeal nerve injury.
Cranial Nerve Deficits

Conveys the sense of olfaction from receptors in the nasal mucosa via nerve fibers which pass through the cribriform plate of the ethmoid bone. Relayed by cells in the olfactory bulb and back to the medial and lateral olfactory cortices in the olfactory tract.
A high molecular weight species of soluble elastin-proelastin.

The isolation of a high molecular weight species (130–140,000 daltons) of soluble elastin from the aortae of lathyritic chicks is described. In comparison to chick tropoelastin, the higher molecular weight material possesses an increased amount of acidic and hydroxyl amino acids and in contrast to tropoelastin, contains histidine, methionine and cystine residues. This high molecular weight species of soluble elastin is susceptible to proteolytic degradation and can be shown to readily break down to lower molecular weight components including tropoelastin. Preliminary data suggest that collagen may have a protective effect on the cleavage of the high molecular weight protein pointing to a potentially significant interaction between the two main structural proteins.
Pitching Business Opportunities

This note can be used to develop a business plan pitch for a new venture. Learning Objective: Develop the skills to pitch a new venture.
A New Global Optimization Algorithm for Batch Process Scheduling

A general framework for handling a wide range of short-term scheduling problems arising in multiproduct/multi-purpose batch chemical plants is presented. Time events arising in the schedule are modeled directly and thus the use of binary variables over periods during which no changes in system state occur is avoided. The problem is formulated as a mixed integer nonlinear program (MINLP). The Bayesian Heuristic (BH) approach is used to implement a global optimization algorithm which effectively solves the resulting model. Computational comparisons using two test examples are made against a UDM (uniform discretization model) formulation. The results suggest that the BH approach combined with the nonuniform time discretization formulation shows promise for the solution of batch scheduling problems.
“Turncoats, Traitors, and Provocateurs”: Communist Collaborators, the German Occupation, and Stalin’s NKVD, 1941–1943:

Historians have long assumed that Germany closely followed a take-no-prisoners policy in dealing with captured communists in the East. That was the direct conclusion to be drawn from Hitler’s notor...