cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Rev-dependent lentiviral expression vector

HIV-responsive expression vectors are all based on the HIV promoter, the long terminal repeat (LTR). While responsive to an early HIV protein, Tat, the LTR is also responsive to cellular activation states and to the local chromatin activity where the integration has occurred. This can result in high HIV-independent activity, and has restricted the use of LTR-based reporter vectors to cloned cells, where aberrantly high expressing (HIV-negative) cells can be eliminated. Enhancements in specificity would increase opportunities for expression vector use in detection of HIV as well as in experimental gene expression in HIV-infected cells. We have constructed an expression vector that possesses, in addition to the Tat-responsive LTR, numerous HIV DNA sequences that include the Rev-response element and HIV splicing sites that are efficiently used in human cells. It also contains a reading frame that is removed by cellular splicing activity in the absence of HIV Rev. The vector was incorporated into a lentiviral reporter virus, permitting detection of replicating HIV in living cell populations. The activity of the vector was measured by expression of green fluorescence protein (GFP) reporter and by PCR of reporter transcript following HIV infection. The vector displayed full HIV dependency. As with the earlier developed Tat-dependent expression vectors, the Rev system described here is an exploitation of an evolved HIV process. The inclusion of Rev-dependency renders the LTR-based expression vector highly dependent on the presence of replicating HIV. The application of this vector as reported here, an HIV-dependent reporter virus, offers a novel alternative approach to existing methods, in situ PCR or HIV antigen staining, to identify HIV-positive cells. The vector permits examination of living cells, can express any gene for basic or clinical experimentation, and as a pseudo-typed lentivirus has access to most cell types and tissues.
Homer-1c/Vesl-1L Modulates the Cell Surface Targeting of Metabotropic Glutamate Receptor Type 1α: Evidence for an Anchoring Function

Homer-1c/Vesl-1L is a 48-kDa protein that forms part of a family of conserved Homer-related proteins that interact with the C-termini of the metabotropic glutamate receptors mGluR1alpha and mGluR5. In order to examine the function of Homer-1c, HEK-293 cells have been transfected with mGluR1alpha, Homer-1c, and both proteins together. When cells were transfected with both proteins, biotinylation of cell surface molecules revealed a significant increase in the amount of receptor and Homer-1c associated with the cell surface compared with cells transfected with mGluR1alpha alone. This finding was paralleled by a concomitant increase in the production of inositol after treatment of the doubly transfected cells with agonist. Cell surface immunostaining of mGluR1alpha showed that Homer-1c can induce clustering of the receptor in the plasma membrane of HEK-293 cells and suggested that the surface receptor was associated with Homer-1c in the plasma membrane. The presence of Homer-1c reduced the rate of loss from the cell surface of mGluR1alpha from 5 to 1%/min and increased the extent of dendritic trafficking of the receptor in rat primary cultured neurons. Our results suggest that Homer-1c increases the cell surface expression of the metabotropic glutamate receptor type 1alpha by increasing its retention in the plasma membrane.
From here to ATM

While not optimum for any one type of traffic, asynchronous transfer mode is clearly the best compromise between the conflicting needs of data, voice, and video. The most interesting question is not whether ATM will take over the data communications highway, but how it will be phased in. The author describes how anticipating how wide- and local-area networks will shift into asynchronous transfer mode requires a grasp of today's technologies. >
Retention weighted recall improves discrimination of Alzheimer's disease.

Impaired recall for early items (primacy) and late items (recency) on word list recall tests are seen in Alzheimer's disease (AD). We compared conventional scoring on the Telephone Instrument for Cognitive Status (TICS) recall list with scorings based on retention-weighted recall (RWR: each item weighted by its serial position) in older adults participating in a community-based aging study. Subjects with mild AD ( N = 18) did not differ from those without dementia ( N = 231) with respect to recency (46% vs. 59%, p = 0.2), but had impaired primacy (2% vs. 39%, p < .001) on word recall on the TICS. RWR scoring improved the effect size (1.52 SD ) compared to conventional scoring (1.08 SD ). With a fixed sensitivity of 85%, specificity was lower using conventional scoring (56%) than RWR (76%) scoring. Our findings suggest that optimized RWR scoring of word list free recall can improve detection of mild AD compared to conventional scoring. ( JINS , 2006, 12 , 436–440.)
Lethality Patterns in Multiple Suicide Attempts

: There are few studies in the suicide literature where persons who make more than one suicide attempt are compared with persons who make only a single attempt. The present study investigated all patients (N = 347) who had come to Massachusetts General Hospital with a suicide attempt in 1965. In this group of patients, the 43 who had made multiple attempts were compared with a randomly selected group of 96 patients who had made only a single attempt. When compared to single attempters, multiple attempters made their initial attempt at an earlier age and at a lower lethal level (as measured by the Risk-Rescue Rating), had a more intense history of prior psychiatric treatment, and received more psychiatric treatment subsequent to the first attempt. Multiple attempters did not differ from single attempters with regard to sex, race, religion, or marital status at the time of the first attempt. Within the group of multiple attempters two subgroups emerged: (a) those who were younger, whose initial lethality level was lower, and who had shorter time intervals between attempts; and (b) those who were older, had higher initial lethality levels, and had longer time periods between attempts. For both subgroups, receiving psychiatric treatment following the first attempt lowered the lethality of their second attempt. Multiple regression analysis was employed to predict the lethal level of a subsequent attempt, should such occur. This predictive equation and the descriptive differences cited above may have direct implications for the management of suicidal persons.
Critical capture distances for highly charged ions above dielectric covered metal surfaces

We model the first stage of the electronic interaction between an ion and a metal surface covered with a thin dielectric layer. Specifically, we seek to answer two questions. (i) As an ion approaches the surface from far away, does the first electron that it captures originate from the exposed dielectric layer or the metal underneath it? (ii) What is the ion’s distance from the metal when the first electron is captured? To answer these questions, the classical potential that an electron is subject to during the interaction is calculated. The dielectric film is treated as a continuum with simple band structure. We input the parameters from recent experiments (Co with 1.5 nm thick Al2O3 film) and found that (i) the first capture proceeds from the metal, and (ii) the dielectric film extends the distance threshold for first capture compared to a metal with no film.
Retarding Vegetable Softening by Cold Alkaline Pectin Deesterification Before Cooking

Snap beans and carrot tissues, deesterified at 1°C and pH 12.5, soften much more slowly than control tissues when cooked at neutral or slightly alkaline pH. High pH or NaCl during cooking had little effect on the degree of softening. Soaking in 0.05 M EDTA led to an 86% loss in firmness. The results were consistent with a reduction in the β-elimination depolymerization of pectin during heating as a result of deesterification in the alkali. Deesterified tissues remained susceptible to pronounced softening during cooking at pH 3.5. Potatoes, cauliflower and apples showed similar effects. Peas gave a reduced response. Beets and dry beans did not show a retardation of softening after an alkali soak.
Inorganic nitrogen retention by watersheds at Fernow Experimental Forest and Coweeta Hydrologic Laboratory

Because elevated N loading can impair both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, understanding the abiotic and biotic controls over retention and export of dissolved inorganic N (DIN) is crucial. Long-term research has been conducted on experimental watersheds at two U.S. Forest Service experimental forests in the Appalachian region: Fernow Experimental Forest (FEF) in West Virginia and Coweeta Hydrologic Laboratory (CHL) in North Carolina. While similar in vegetation and research history, FEF and CHL differ in climate, historic DIN deposition, and soils. We evaluated long-term patterns of DIN inputs and exports from three watersheds at each location with similar treatments including clear-cut harvest, conversion to conifer plantation (Norway spruce [Picea abies (L.) H. Karst.] at FEF and white pine [Pinus strobus L.] at CHL), as well as reference watersheds. We examined DIN export and retention in these watersheds, comparing treated and reference watersheds within each experimental forest and comparing similarly treated watersheds between the experimental forests. Despite current similar levels of N deposition, stream water DIN concentrations and exports were generally greater at FEF by almost an order of magnitude. We found differences between FEF and CHL in stream DIN concentrations, watershed export, and retention of DIN inputs not only in the untreated reference watersheds but also in the watersheds with similar disturbance treatment. We hypothesize that these differences are the result of site and vegetation differences as well as site history including long-term patterns of DIN deposition. We document the switch from biogeochemical to hydrologic controls that occurred when N availability exceeded N immobilization, due to either N deposition or biological N inputs.
Good neighbour, bad neighbour: song sparrows retaliate against aggressive rivals

Many territorial animals, despite being in direct competition for resources such as space, food and mates, show reduced aggression towards their neighbours. This situation is called the Dear Enemy effect. One explanation of the Dear Enemy effect is that it is due to a conditional strategy like Tit for Tat where territory holders cooperate by reducing aggression towards neighbours that also show reduced aggression, but retaliate against aggressive neighbours. Previous research found evidence for such a conditional strategy in migratory species but not in species with long-term association between neighbours, suggesting that long-term neighbours might be engaged in more ‘forgiving’ strategies. We tested this hypothesis in male song sparrows, Melodia melospiza, which are resident year-round in our population (leading to long-term associations between neighbouring birds) and display the Dear Enemy effect. We found that following a simulated intrusion by a neighbour, song sparrow males responded more strongly to playback of this neighbour than to playback of a neutral neighbour from their respective boundaries, consistent with a conditional retaliation strategy. We suggest that the primary effect of an intrusion by a neighbour might be to increase the perceived risk of cuckoldry by the intruding male, and increased aggression and vigilance towards this neighbour might be a strategy to prevent cuckoldry.
Chemical communication in heliothine moths. VII. Correlation between diminished responses to point-source plumes and single filaments similarly tainted with a behavioral antagonist

Addition of (Z)-11-hexadecenyl acetate (Z11-16:Ac) into a normally attractive binary blend of Heliothis virescens pheromone components resulted in a suppression of upwind flight and source location by males. Male response was reduced even at the lowest dosages of Z11-16:Ac tested but upwind flight and source location were most clearly reduced when the loading of Z11-16:Ac reached 10% or more of the (Z)-11-hexadecenal (Z11-16:Ald) loading (the major component present in the binary blend). Similar patterns of suppression in response were noted when Z11-16:Ac was added to binary blends of pheromone components at both 10 and 100 μg loadings of Z11-16:Ald. Males in casting flight following upwind flight in a mechanically generated pulsed plume, responded to the interception of a subsequent, single binary-blend filament by making a toward-source upwind surge. Responses of males to a single filament that was tainted by a level of Z11-16:Ac that had allowed some reduced level of upwind flight and source location to occur in the previous plume experiments were diminished compared with their control counterparts. Analysis of the flight tracks revealed that the surges in response to single tainted filaments were stunted because males made fewer significant changes in course angles steered, airspeeds generated, and in the tempo of counterturns executed.
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in individuals with severe obesity

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common chronic liver disorder occurring in individuals without significant alcohol consumption. It consists of a spectrum of liver disease, ranging from simple steatosis to steatohepatitis, cirrhosis, liver failure, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Although a number of conditions have been identified as risk factors, obesity is by far the most dominant risk factor for developing NAFLD. Over the past decade, it became apparent that NAFLD in some patients is a progressive disorder,leading to cirrhosis and liver failure. Despite lack of direct evidence,due to the ongoing epidemic of obesity in western countries, it is believed that the incidence of NAFLD is increasing, and patients with complicated and uncomplicated NAFLD will present in increasing numbers to primary care physicians as well as specialists. This article discusses the prevalence, histologic spectrum, and natural history of NAFLD in subjects with severe obesity as well as the hepatic effects of drastic weight loss induced by bariatric surgery or severe calorie restriction.
Three-week clinical trial of a 14% hydrogen-peroxide, strip-based bleaching system.

Abstract: This clinical trial tested the efficacy and safety of a profes-sional strip-based whitening system (Crest Whitestrips ® Supreme) usingthe manufacturer’s recommended 3-week treatment regimen. Thesestrips have a higher concentration, but a similar amount of hydrogen per-oxide relative to Crest ® Professional Whitestrips ™ , because the thicknessof the gel on strips is reduced. Tooth whitening was measured using thevalue-oriented VITA ® Classic Shade Guide before and after treatment.Twenty-nine subjects were treated with either Crest Whitestrips ® Supreme or placebo strips that did not contain hydrogen peroxide.Participants in the experimental group achieved a mean lightening ofnearly eight VITA ® shades relative to placebo, with minimal side effects. H aywood and Heymann formally introduced at-home bleaching tothe dental profession in 1989. 1 Since then, at-home bleachingusing carbamide peroxide and, more recently, hydrogen peroxidehas become a popular method for lightening discolored teeth.
Cyber Physical Systems for Smarter Energy Grids: Experiences at IBM Research—India

Power grid operators around the world are facing a number of critical challenges such as energy and peak power shortages, outages and the uncertainty introduced by intermittent renewable energy sources. To address these challenges, the research community has identified a few high-level objectives: alleviation of peak loads, minimization of grid losses, improving the energy efficiency of buildings and loads, and reducing the uncertainty about energy produced by renewable sources. Implementing these strategies would require a “smarter energy” system that is instrumented, with sensors and controls embedded into the fabric of its operations; it is interconnected, enabling the two-way flow of information—including pricing—and energy across the network; and it is intelligent, using analytics and automation to achieve the aforementioned objectives. In this paper, we present a sampling of cyber physical systems we have designed to enable such a smarter energy supply chain. These systems depend on varying levels of instrumentation (sensing/actuation) and network connectivity. There remains a large opportunity to deepen these contributions and taking innovations to full market impact, which require overcoming commercial and regulatory challenges as well. A feature of our work was to consider and be informed of real world and client constraints in our work, and we have built prototypes and experiments for similar circumstances. We hope that these experiences will spark more experimental innovation activity that is critically important for being well grounded in research and indeed, for the success of smart grids worldwide.
CNVnator: An approach to discover, genotype, and characterize typical and atypical CNVs from family and population genome sequencing

Copy number variation (CNV) in the genome is a complex phenomenon, and not completely understood. We have developed a method, CNVnator, for CNV discovery and genotyping from read-depth (RD) analysis of personal genome sequencing. Our method is based on combining the established mean-shift approach with additional refinements (multiple-bandwidth partitioning and GC correction) to broaden the range of discovered CNVs. We calibrated CNVnator using the extensive validation performed by the 1000 Genomes Project. Because of this, we could use CNVnator for CNV discovery and genotyping in a population and characterization of atypical CNVs, such as de novo and multi-allelic events. Overall, for CNVs accessible by RD, CNVnator has high sensitivity (86%-96%), low false-discovery rate (3%-20%), high genotyping accuracy (93%-95%), and high resolution in breakpoint discovery (<200 bp in 90% of cases with high sequencing coverage). Furthermore, CNVnator is complementary in a straightforward way to split-read and read-pair approaches: It misses CNVs created by retrotransposable elements, but more than half of the validated CNVs that it identifies are not detected by split-read or read-pair. By genotyping CNVs in the CEPH, Yoruba, and Chinese-Japanese populations, we estimated that at least 11% of all CNV loci involve complex, multi-allelic events, a considerably higher estimate than reported earlier. Moreover, among these events, we observed cases with allele distribution strongly deviating from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, possibly implying selection on certain complex loci. Finally, by combining discovery and genotyping, we identified six potential de novo CNVs in two family trios.
Nondestructive Evaluation of Japanese Persimmon Maturity by Delayed Light Emission

Japanese persimmon cultivars (3 nonastringent, Fuyu, Jiro and Ichi Kijiro and 2 astringent, Aizumi Shiraza and Giambo) were evaluated during maturation for changes in delayed light emission (DLE) and physical and chemical properties relating to maturity. Firmness, chlorophyll and DLE decreased during ripening and Hunter a values, soluble solids and β-carotene increased. For all cultivars the relationship between DLE and maturity, indicated by calculated maturity index, was linear and negative. High correlations between DLE and maturity indicated that DLE has high potential for use as a rapid, nondestructive technique for estimating persimmon maturity.
The Charms of Nature: Darwin on Meaning and Value

I review George Levine’s provocative and highly original book Darwin Loves You. Levine, whose “home discipline” is English Literature, offers a compelling interpretation of Darwin’s works, evaluating their content and Darwin’s prose style to identify a distinctly Darwinian attitude toward nature as a source of meaning and value. Levine believes that Darwin exemplifies the capacity to feel “enchantment” about the natural world, suggesting that, if Darwin’s example were followed, a “Darwinian re-enchantment of the world” would be brought about. This would offer a secular, non-supernatural basis for purpose, meaning, and value. I conclude with a few critical remarks about the scope and cogency of Levine’s proposal.
IGFBP-3 mediates TGF-β1-induced cell growth in human airway smooth muscle cells

Both insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) have been separately shown to have cell-specific growth-inhibiting or growth-potentiating effect...
Current perspectives on the US FDA regulatory framework for intelligent drug-delivery systems

The US FDA is the US agency responsible for regulating intelligent drug-delivery systems (IDDS). IDDS can be classified as a device, drug, biologic or combination product. In this perspective, the current regulatory framework for IDDS and future perspectives on how the field is expected to evolve from a regulatory standpoint is discussed.
Dynamic interactions of an intracellular Ca2+ clock and membrane ion channel clock underlie robust initiation and regulation of cardiac pacemaker function

For almost half a century it has been thought that the initiation of each heartbeat is driven by surface membrane voltage-gated ion channels (M clocks) within sinoatrial nodal cells. It has also been assumed that pacemaker cell automaticity is initiated at the maximum diastolic potential (MDP). Recent experimental evidence based on confocal cell imaging and supported by numerical modelling, however, shows that initiation of cardiac impulse is a more complex phenomenon and involves yet another clock that resides under the sarcolemma. This clock is the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR): it generates spontaneous, but precisely timed, rhythmic, submembrane, local Ca(2+) releases (LCR) that appear not at the MDP but during the late, diastolic depolarization (DD). The Ca(2+) clock and M clock dynamically interact, defining a novel paradigm of robust cardiac pacemaker function and regulation. Rhythmic LCRs during the late DD activate inward Na(+)/Ca(2+) exchanger currents and ignite action potentials, which in turn induceCa(2+) transients and SR depletions, resetting the Ca(2+) clock. Both basal and reserve protein kinaseA-dependent phosphorylation of Ca(2+) cycling proteins control the speed and amplitude of SR Ca(2+) cycling to regulate the beating rate by strongly coupled Ca(2+) and M clocks.
Quantitative Interpretation of Transplantation Phenomena

What is the shape of the head activation gradient in hydra? With what kinetics does the hydra head inhibition change with time after the head is removed? These questions seem to be simple ones, but they require that transplantation phenomena be interpreted quantitatively. In this chapter I discuss some problems that arise when one attempts such interpretations and present what appear to me to be the best methods of dealing with them.
Present-day nearshore pH differentially depresses fertilization in congeneric sea urchins.

Ocean acidification impacts fertilization in some species of sea urchin, but whether sensitivity is great enough to be influenced by present-day pH variability has not been documented. In this study, fertilization in two congeneric sea urchins, Strongylocentrotus purpuratus and S. franciscanus, was found to be sensitive to reduced pH, 7.50, but only within a range of sperm-egg ratios that was species-specific. By further testing fertilization across a broad range of pH, pH-fertilization curves were generated and revealed that S. purpuratus was largely robust to pH, while fertilization in S. franciscanus was sensitive to even modest reductions in pH. Combining the pH-fertilization response curves with pH data collected from these species' habitat demonstrated that relative fertilization success re- mained high for S. purpuratus but could be as low as 79% for S. franciscanus during periods of naturally low pH. In order for S. franciscanus to maintain high fertilization suc- cess in the present and future, adequate adult densities, and thus sufficient sperm-egg ratios, will be required to negate the effects of low pH. In contrast, fertilization of S. purpu- ratus was robust to a broad range of pH, encompassing both present-day and future ocean acidification scenarios, even though the two congeners have similar habitats.
Severe Sepsis: A Science of Uncertainty

An evaluation of a recent study by Kaukonen KM, Bailey M, Suzuki S et al : Mortality related to severe sepsis and septic shock among critically ill patients in Australia and New Zealand , 2000-2012 . JAMA 2014, 311(13):13081316.
Modification of Babcock method to eliminate fat testing bias between Babcock and ether extraction methods (modification of AOAC Official Methods 989.04 and 995.18): collaborative study

The Babcock test for determining fat in milk (AOAC Official Method 989.04) and in cream (AOAC Official Method 995.18) gives consistently higher test results than does the modified Mojonnier ether extraction reference method (AOAC Official Methods 989.05 and 995.19). To decrease the density of material in Babcock columns and thus lower test results, the Babcock method was modified by lowering the temperatures used at various points in the method, from about 57.5° to 48°C. Using the AOAC collaborative study format, 9 laboratories tested 9 pairs of blind duplicate raw milk samples (fat range 2.5-5.7%) and 9 pairs of blind duplicate heat-treated cream samples (fat range 30-45%) using the temperature modified (TM) Babcock method. The ether extraction test was conducted as the reference method. The statistical performance (invalid and outlier data removed) of the TM Babcock method was, for milk: percent fat value of 4.110, repeatability standard deviation (s r ) value of 0.037, reproducibility standard deviation (s R ) value of 0.047, repeatability relative standard deviation (RSD r ) value of 0.901% and reproducibility relative standard deviation (RSD R ) value of 1.147%; and for cream: percent fat value of 37.555, Sr value of 0.258, S R value of 0.353, RSD r value of 0.687% and RSD R value of 0.940%. The TM Babcock method performance was acceptable but not as good as that achieved in previous studies of the unmodified method. For the TM Babcock and ether methods, respectively, average percentages fat were 4.110 and 4.114 for milk, and 37.555 and 37.485 for cream. Temperature modification statistically eliminated the testing bias between methods. The temperature modifications of the Babcock methods for determination of fat in milk and cream (989.04 and 995.18) have been adopted revised first action by AOAC INTERNATIONAL.
Does a Rising Tide Lift All Ships? Comparisons between China and the USA

This paper sketches the broad experience of black-white earnings disparities in the United States over the course of the business cycle, comparing them to disparities between urban minorities and Han in China. The patterns differ between the USA and China, warranting a more detailed look at the dynamics of racial earnings inequality in the USA. We present a model of earnings disparities and estimate the impacts of fluctuations in state unemployment on black-white earnings gaps. Our findings are not consistent with the view that “a rising tide lifts all ships” as it relates to racial/ethnic inequality in the USA.
Depressive symptoms, social support, and violence exposure among urban youth: A longitudinal study of resilience

Depression is a serious mental health concern among adolescents. Violence exposure is a potent risk factor for depression. Social support may help reduce depression risk, even when adolescents are exposed to violence. Using a compensatory model of resilience, we investigate the influence of violence exposure and social support on depression over time in a sample of urban youth during the high school years (N = 824, 52% female, mean age Year 1 = 14.9). We used growth curve modeling to examine depressive symptoms across adolescence and its association with violence exposure and social support, accounting for important sociodemographic characteristics (sex, socioeconomic status, and race/ethnicity). Depressive symptoms on average increase from Year 1 to 2 of high school and then are stable or decline from Years 2 to 4. Violence observation and conflict in the family were each associated with increased depressive symptoms during the high school years. Mother support was associated with decreased depressive symptoms over time. Our results support a compensatory model of resilience. Promoting positive parent-child communication among urban youth living in disadvantaged contexts may help reduce the probability that exposure to violence will result in depressive symptoms.
Correlation of anemia status with worsening bowel damage as measured by Lémann Index in patients with Crohn's disease

Abstract Background There is evidence that anemia in Crohn's disease (CD) is a predictor of disease severity. Aim To evaluate if patterns of anemia over time showed correlation with aggressive disease trajectory, as characterized by change in Lemann Index (LI), which is a metric that quantifies bowel damage. Methods CD patients with 5 year (y) follow-up from a prospective registry were included. LI was calculated from the first (LI1) and last (LI2) clinical encounters. The change in score (LI2–LI1) or the Delta LI (DLI) was recorded. Patterns of anemia, healthcare utilization and disease activity scores were analyzed. Results A total of 389 CD patients with 5 y follow-up formed the study population [median age 40 y (IQR: 31–53); 57.3% female; median disease duration 12 y (IQR: 6–20.5), overall surgical exposure 69%]. Patients with anemia had significantly higher LI1, LI2, DLI and also significantly higher healthcare utilization and indices of disease activity, than patients without anemia ( p p = 0.003) for worsening bowel damage over the 5 y. Conclusion Based on a longitudinal analysis of CD patients, anemia status over time shows significant correlation with increasing Lemann index and aggressive disease trajectory.
Analysis of the Regional Dynamics of Unsprayed Spruce Budworm (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) Populations

An analysis was performed on spruce budworm, Choristoneura fumiferana (Clem.), density and balsam fir, Abies balsamea (L.) Mill., damage data collected annually from 1975 to 1980 at ca. 1,000 locations throughout Maine's Spruce-Fir Protection district. Although general trends could be detected in mean egg density as a function of previous egg densities or defoliation, there was large variability associated with data from different blocks of forest. Mean egg densities for a given level of defoliation were shown to be substantially lower in the southeast part of Maine than in the northwestern region. Mean egg densities in year t + 1 for a given egg mass density in year t were unusually high in 1978 to 1979. Stands with a history of heavy budworm damage were more likely to sustain high egg densities than comparable stands with histories of light damage. This result does not support the hypothesis that dispersing budworm moths tend to lay more of their eggs in lightly damaged stands.
Immunologic tolerance in renal transplantation

The current excellent short-term results of renal transplantation are achieved at the expense of complications of chronic immunosuppression. These include increased risk for infection, malignancy, and long-term deterioration of function ("chronic allograft nephropathy"). The induction of transplantation tolerance, the long-term acceptance of an allograft without continuous immunosuppression, has been a goal of transplant immunologists for the last 40 years. Unfortunately, this has been easier to achieve in rodents than in humans. Nevertheless, this body of research has significantly increased our knowledge of the workings of the immune system and specifically, how the body differentiates between "self" and "nonself". Using these insights, several promising approaches to the clinical induction of transplant tolerance have emerged and are undergoing clinical evaluation.
Exposure Assessment of Musculoskeletal Disorder Risk Factors in Hospital Work: Inter-Rater Reliability of Path Observations

We examined the inter-rater reliability (IRR) of expert observations of ergonomic risk factors by four analysts. Ten jobs were observed at a hospital using a revision of the PATH method (Buchholz 1996). Two of four raters simultaneously observed each worker onsite. A total of 18 categorical exposure items were available for analysis. For most of the items, kappa coefficients were 0.4 or higher, showing that the IRR of the revised method was good. As predicted, agreement among observers was higher for the jobs with less rapid hand activity and for the analysts with more ergonomics and job analysis experience. The results show that the revised method can be reliably applicable to hospital work, and suggest that it can reasonably assess ergonomic exposure in any type of non-routine job across industries including healthcare industry.
On an Estimate of Cranston and McConnell for Elliptic Diffusions in Uniform Domains

We show that ifD⊂∝ n ,n≧3,n≽3, is a bounded uniform domain, then the lifetime of the Doobh-paths inD for elliptic diffusions in divergence form is finite. This result holds for any bounded domainD in the plane.
Pole-Equator-Pole Paleoclimates of the Americas: PEP 1 A Review*

This contribution reviews the approach proposed under the IGBP-PAGES mandate, to further our understanding of global climate change and its forcing, which calls for an inter- hemispheric analysis of present and past climate change in the Americas. Modern climate and Late Quaternary paleoclimate records from the Americas are reviewed to provide the background for addressing the task of inter-hemispheric climate correlation.
Serially concatenated systems using MSK modulation

In this paper, Serial Concatenated Convolutional Code (SCCC) with Continuous Phase Modulation (focus on MSK) and Log-MAP decoding algorithm is investigated. As an alternative solution to Parallel Concatenated Convolutional Code (PCCC), which is termed Turbo Code (TC), SCCC is in some cases superior to that of TC with similar complexity, especially at high Signal-to-Noise ratio. SCCC consists of a Recursive Systematic Code (RSC) or non-RSC outer code and a RSC inner code permuted by a random interleaver.
Food addiction as a proxy for eating disorder and obesity severity, trauma history, PTSD symptoms, and comorbidity.

Food addiction (FA) is a newly defined yet still controversial condition that has important etiological, developmental, treatment, prevention, and social policy implications. In this review, the case is made that FA (or high scores on the Yale Food Addiction Scale) may be used as a proxy measure for a matrix of interrelated clinical features, including greater eating disorder severity, greater obesity severity, more severe trauma histories, greater symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), greater psychiatric comorbidity, as well as greater medical morbidity and mortality. A Medline search was undertaken using the following terms: food addiction cross-referenced with eating disorders (anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, and binge eating), obesity, trauma, posttraumatic stress disorder, and comorbidity. The thesis is that the identification and acknowledgment of the concept of FA, when integrated into an overall, trauma-focused and transdiagnostic treatment approach, are supported and can be useful in understanding clinically the “big picture.” Food addiction (FA) may be used as a proxy for (1) bulimic eating disorder severity, (2) complex trauma histories, (3) severity of PTSD and PTSD symptoms, (4) intensity of psychiatric comorbidity, (5) severity of obesity, as well as (6) their combination. Implications for developing treatment strategies are discussed. The case for a comprehensive management that requires careful attention to medical and psychiatric assessment and integrated care that incorporates trauma-focused treatment is made.
Non-Perturbative Gauge Dynamics in Supersymmetric Theories. A Primer

I give an introductory review of recent, fascinating developments in supersymmetric gauge theories. I explain pedagogically the miraculous properties of supersymmetric gauge dynamics allowing one to obtain exact solutions in many instances. Various dynamical regimes emerging in supersymmetric Quantum Chromodynamics and its generalizations are discussed. I emphasize those features that have a chance of survival in QCD and those which are drastically different in supersymmetric and non-supersymmetric gauge theories. Unlike most of the recent reviews focusing almost entirely on the progress in extended supersymmetries (the Seiberg-Witten solution of N=2 models), these lectures are mainly devoted to N=1 theories. Developments “after Seiberg” (domain walls in supersymmetric gluodynamics) are briefly discussed.
Exercise reduced pentraxin 3 levels produced by endotoxin-stimulated human peripheral blood mononuclear cells in obese individuals.

The purpose of this study was to determine whether obesity would reduce the capacity of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) to produce the anti-inflammatory protein pentraxin 3 (PTX3) in res...
Establishing a lasting solution to collection development policy challenges for audiovisual archives to enhance access in Zimbabwe

Providing the best blend of national audiovisual archiving resources representative of the national film and sound archival collection is a challenging professional obligation in drafting collection development policies for audiovisual archivists in developing countries. Being tasked to develop a collection policy means to describe the scope, nature of collection, delineate priorities, give guidelines which encourages consistency. This article is driven by practical experiences the author faced in developing the National Archives of Zimbabwe (NAZ), Audiovisual Unit Collection development policy. The author believes NAZ experience would benefit other East and Southern Africa Regional Branch of the International Council ( ESARBICA) members if they follow the same steps in developing their audiovisual collections. Taking into account the scarce financial resources that most archival institutions in the ESARBICA operate under, there is a need for ways of reaching out to the nation and professional stakeholders to obtain views and ideas in policy formulation. This will enable archivists to make informed decisions and timely resource selection decisions based on carefully prepared up to date collection development policy. One would not want a situation whereby footage matures/appreciates to be archival yet was omitted in the policy and risk being blamed by future generations. The article sought to establish the dilemmas faced by film and sound archivists in developing collection policies. It provides insights on the dilemma faced in order to create a collection policy. The collection policy should be representative of the nation, without bias or prejudice, and present the peculiar circumstances and background of collection acquisition in audiovisual archives. This article pointed out problems relating to document and content selection, problems associated with microforms, media obsolescence, formats, make, use of terms, vendor controlled order plans and journal subscriptions. The article concluded by highlighting possible steps and recommendations that can be used in developing comprehensive collection policies.
Agronomic Weed Control: A Trustworthy Approach for Sustainable Weed Management

Abstract An integrated weed management strategy that combines various physical, cultural, chemical, and preventive weed control methods would, among other factors, secure a sustainable food production. Agronomic weed control, easily manipulated by the producer set of cultural approaches such as crop density, use of competitive cultivars, or management of nitrogen fertilization, can undoubtedly be a part of integrated weed management strategies particularly when herbicides are not an option. Nevertheless, the multifaceted nature of weed management decision-making procedures, particularly nowadays where the incidences of herbicide-resistant weeds increase dramatically, requires a carefully designed approach for an efficient weed control program to work.
Update: Noncongenital Zika Virus Disease Cases — 50 U.S. States and the District of Columbia, 2016

Zika virus is a flavivirus primarily transmitted to humans by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes (1). Zika virus infections also have been documented through intrauterine transmission resulting in congenital infection; intrapartum transmission from a viremic mother to her newborn; sexual transmission; blood transfusion; and laboratory exposure (1-3). Most Zika virus infections are asymptomatic or result in mild clinical illness, characterized by acute onset of fever, maculopapular rash, arthralgia, or nonpurulent conjunctivitis; Guillain-Barre syndrome, meningoencephalitis, and severe thrombocytopenia rarely have been associated with Zika virus infection (1). However, congenital Zika virus infection can result in fetal loss, microcephaly, and other birth defects (1,2). In 2016, a total of 5,168 noncongenital Zika virus disease cases were reported from U.S. states and the District of Columbia. Most cases (4,897, 95%) were in travelers returning from Zika virus-affected areas. A total of 224 (4%) cases were acquired through presumed local mosquitoborne transmission, and 47 (1%) were acquired by other routes. It is important that providers in the United States continue to test symptomatic patients who live in or recently traveled to areas with ongoing Zika virus transmission or had unprotected sex with someone who lives in or traveled to those areas. All pregnant women and their partners should take measures to prevent Zika virus infection during pregnancy. A list of affected areas and specific recommendations on how to prevent Zika virus infection during pregnancy are available at https://www.cdc.gov/pregnancy/zika/protect-yourself.html.
Laparoscopy decreases the disparity in postoperative complications between black and white women after hysterectomy for endometrial cancer.

Abstract Objectives Black race has been associated with increased 30-day morbidity and mortality following surgery for endometrial cancer. Black women are also less likely to undergo laparoscopy when compared to white women. With the development of improved laparoscopic techniques and equipment, including the robotic platform, we sought to evaluate whether there has been a change in surgical approach for black women, and in turn, improvement in perioperative outcomes. Methods Using the American College of Surgeons' National Surgical Quality Improvement Project's database, patients who underwent hysterectomy for endometrial cancer from 2010 to 2015 were identified. Comparative analyses stratified by race and hysterectomy approach were performed to assess the relationship between race and perioperative outcomes. Results A total of 17,692 patients were identified: of these, 13,720 (77.5%) were white and 1553 (8.8%) were black. Black women were less likely to undergo laparoscopic hysterectomy compared to white women (49.3% vs 71.3%, p p p =0.1). Conclusions Overall black women incur more postoperative complications compared to white women undergoing hysterectomy for endometrial cancer. However, laparoscopy may mitigate this disparity. Efforts should be made to maximize the utilization of minimally invasive surgery for the surgical management of endometrial cancer.
Growth Factors and the Development of Neonatal Host Defense

Following birth, the gastrointestinal tract of the newborn undergoes important adaptive changes to the extrauterine environment. These changes include the development of an effective mucosal barrier against the penetration of antigens and antigenic particles presented to the intestinal surface by way of ingestion of milk or soy proteins, bacterial colonization of the gut, and formation of toxic byproducts of bacteria and viruses. Immaturity of this mucosal barrier may result in clinical disease states to which the newborn is specifically susceptible such as necrotizing enterocolitis, toxigenic diarrhea, and intestinal allergy. The content of breast milk is postulated to be an important modulator of the infants adjustment to the external environment.
Clinical Aspects of Acute Pancreatitis: Features, Prognosis and Use of Imaging Findings in Therapeutic Decision Making

Acute pancreatitis is a challenging illness characterized by abdominal pain and elevated pancreatic enzymes. In the majority of cases, acute pancreatitis is mild and resolves with conservative therapy. In 10%–20% of cases, the disease is severe and may lead to significant morbidity and mortality, usually due to multi-system organ failure or complications from infected necrosis. The challenge for clinicians is to determine quickly and accurately which patients are most likely to develop severe disease and require intensive care. In this chapter, we will briefly discuss the clinical features of acute pancreatitis, methods of assessing severity and use of imaging in patient care.
The Differences Between ACF Professional Chefs and Chef Educators: Concern for Task Versus Concern for People

This research deepens theoretical and practical understanding of certified chefs by comparing chef professionals to chef educators. Using Blake and Mouton’s managerial grid, we determined the exten...
Freedom and Formlessness: Ben Lerner’s 10:04 and the Affective Historical Present

This essay argues, via Henri Bergson and Gilles Deleuze, that in distinction to a neoliberal notion of time that overlooks the present moment and past experience, Ben Lerner’s 10:04 posits the existence, in both its form and content, of a kind of freedom not imminent to or beyond the endless presentism and debt-mortgaged non-future of neoliberal time but one that is immanent to and within it. The novel does so by stressing the way in which the actual, lived present, if properly attended to, gives rise to a virtual future containing multiple potentialities that have yet to be realized. What emerges is a deep sense of contemporaneity or affective time that heralds the potential of a nascent collective. 10:04 performs this notion in its very metafictional form(lessness) that calls attention to the fragility of both narrative and time that, particularly during moments of disruption, allow the subject to experience affectively an actual present carrying a virtual past into a future teeming with potentialities that a neoliberal temporality, in which the future is tamed by a drop down menu of preselected options, must deny. Thus, 10:04 reveals that we can experience a freedom to come within even the presentism of neoliberal temporality so that freedom after neoliberalism, as the novel’s Benjaminian influenced refrain suggests, will be “the same but a little different.”
TightRope: Towards Optimal Load-balancing of Paths in Anonymous Networks

We study the problem of load-balancing in path selection in anonymous networks such as Tor. We first find that the current Tor path selection strategy can create significant imbalances. We then develop a (locally) optimal algorithm for selecting paths and show, using flow-level simulation, that it results in much better balancing of load across the network. Our initial algorithm uses the complete state of the network, which is impractical in a distributed setting and can compromise users' privacy. We therefore develop a revised algorithm that relies on a periodic, differentially private summary of the network state to approximate the optimal assignment. Our simulations show that the revised algorithm significantly outpe forms the current strategy while maintaining provable privacy guarantees.