cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Branching in macromolecules of different synthetic rubbers

From results of a study of the intrinsic viscosity and the dynamooptical properties of homogeneous polymer fraction solutions, the influence of the polymerization temperature on the degree of branching in various synthetic rubbers was determined. The dynamooptical method proved to be the most suitable for our purpose. It was found that the influence of the polymerization temperature on the degree of branching of rubber macromolecules prepared in the presence of sodium, potassium, and lithium depends largely on the metal employed. With sodium-butadiene rubbers, even a considerable change in the temperature of polymerization has little influence on the degree of branching of the macromolecules. On the other hand, when potassium is used as the catalyst, an increase in the polymerization temperature leads to a marked increase of the degree of branching. A considerable increase in the degree of branching was also observed in high-temperature, lithium-catalyzed polymerization. A relatively small effect of temperature on the degree of branching was observed in the case of butadiene-styrene copolymers obtained by free radical-initiated emulsion polymerization. The determination of the intrinsic viscosity of polymer fractions of various molecular weights in an ideal (Θ) solvent permits a quantitative evaluation of the degree of branching by applying Flory's equation, as modified for the case of branched polymers. Such an evaluation was made for three samples of lithium-isoprene polymers. For two samples which were found to be branched, it was discovered that one branch unit occurs for every ∼4000 monomer units.
Light emission from solid nitrogen during and after electron bombardment

Abstract Nitrogen gas was condensed on a target at 4°K and bombarded with electrons of medium energy (3 to 50 kv). Emission spectra were obtained in the ultraviolet (2200–4000 A), visible (4000–7000 A), and near infrared (7000–8800 A) spectral regions. The change of these spectra as a function of the intensity of the bombarding electrons was investigated and the influence of impurities of oxygen and argon was studied. Half-life measurements were made of the intense lines and bands. The results obtained by the bombardment technique are compared with those obtained recently by the discharge method.
The effectiveness of various modes of sales behavior in different markets

Theoretical categories of behavior and environment developed by Ackoff and by Emery and Trist are adapted to create a model predicting the most effective mode of salesman's behavior in various mark...
Avian foraging and nesting use of created snags in intensively-managed forests of western Oregon, USA

Abstract Snags are critical structural features for managing biological diversity in forests of the Pacific Northwest, USA. However, commercial forests in this region often contain reduced numbers of snags compared to unmanaged forests and managers require effective methods to augment snag numbers in harvest units. Therefore, we created snags by topping live trees with a mechanical harvester and studied foraging and nesting use by cavity-nesting birds of these snags in clearcuts in Douglas-fir ( Pseudotsuga mensezii ) forests along the west slope of the Cascade Mountain Range and east slope of the Coast Range in Oregon, USA. We used a completely randomized design to assign 6 different treatments (single or scattered distribution by 3 different densities) to 31 different harvest units. We created 1111 snags from February 1997 through April 1999 and monitored them from 2–5 years after harvest (1999–2002). Fraction of created snags with nest cavities in harvest units was generally low across all treatments and years of the study, although some individual stands demonstrated increased nesting use with snag age. While the highest fractions of snags with nest cavities were found in units with low density and scattered snags, the mean fraction of snags used for nesting did not differ among treatments. Treatment type, distribution of snags (i.e., scattered or clumped), and associated interactions did not influence fraction of snags used for foraging. However, fraction of created snags used for foraging in all harvest units increased with snag age. Fraction of snags used for foraging was greatest in the low density treatments. While this technique provides managers with a relatively economical option for creating snags, mechanical harvesters cannot be used to create tall, large snags upon which several cavity-dependent species rely and provides only a partial solution to a critical forest management issue.
Identification of cAMP analogue inducible genes in RAW264 macrophages.

Abstract RNA was isolated from RAW264 cells treated with or without 8-Br-cAMP and the differential display and subtractive hybridization methods were performed. One hundred and twenty-five differentially displayed bands were identified. Upon Northern blot analysis, only three of these bands were confirmed as cAMP inducible mRNAs, named cI-1, cI-2, and cI-3 (for cAMP inducible genes 1–3). The cI-3 probe was identical to a previously known gene, gly96. Using the novel cI-1 and cI-2 partial cDNAs as probes, a mouse macrophage cDNA library was screened and the two full length genes were cloned, sequenced, and characterized as encoding large hydrophobic proteins. One hundred and fifteen partial cDNA clones from a subtractive hybridization library were also screened by Northern blot and 64 were found to be cAMP inducible. Of these, 45 represented 31 known unique genes in the GenBank nr database (cI-4–34), and 19 clones representing 15 unique sequences were not in the nr database (cI-35–49). One of the previously known genes was ABC1, the Tangier disease gene, which was identified from four independent partial cDNAs. ABC1 was upregulated in RAW cells by cAMP, concurrent with the cAMP induction of lipid efflux to apolipoprotein A1.
Practitioner review: bridging the gap between research and clinical practice in pediatric obesity.

Background: Pediatric obesity is a significant public health concern, with rising prevalence rates in both developed and developing countries. This is of particular significance given that overweight children and adolescents are at increased risk for multiple medical comorbidities, as well as psychosocial and behavioral difficulties. The current review highlights findings from the empirical pediatric obesity treatment literature, with particular attention to diet, physical activity, and behavior interventions. Evaluation and treatment considerations relevant to working with overweight children and adolescents with psychiatric comorbidities are reviewed. Methods: Review of the relevant treatment literature, with a focus on randomized clinical trials, was conducted. Recommendations regarding treatment of children and adolescents with psychiatric comorbidities are based on relevant prospective studies of the relationship between weight status and psychological variables and studies with adult populations. Results: Well-established pediatric weight control interventions have been conducted in research settings. These studies provide a starting point, but are limited by homogeneous samples that may exclude participants with psychiatric comorbidities. Practitioners treating obese children and adolescents with psychiatric disorders are encouraged to assess individual, familial, and contextual variables specific to weight (e.g., motivation and existing support to change current eating and physical activity patterns, extent of weight-related conflict within family, impact of weight on current functioning) in order to prioritize treatment objectives. Conclusions: The review concludes with a discussion of current empirical and practical challenges, including explicitly targeting obese children and adolescents with psychiatric concerns and determining appropriateness of pursuing weight control interventions in this population.
Effects of intracellular ADP and Pi on the sodium pump of squid giant axon.

THE sodium pumps of human erythrocytes and of the squid giant axon can switch from an Na+ : K+ exchanging mode of operation to an Na+ : Na+ exchanging one1–3. This remarkable property puts severe constraints on any proposed model for the sodium pump4. In red blood cells, the mode of operation of the pump is said to depend primarily, though not exclusively, on the intracellular ATP/Pi ratio1, whereas in squid axon, the behaviour of the pump seems to be governed by the ATP/ADP ratio alone2. No experiments have been carried out, however, specifically to test the role of either ADP or Pi in this respect, and it has indeed been envisaged3 that ADP and Pi are equally effective in switching the sodium pump of squid axon from an Na+ : K+ exchanging mechanism to an Na+ : Na+ exchanging one. I wish to describe some experiments specifically designed to differentiate the effects of intracellular ADP and Pi on Na+ efflux from the squid axon.
Do class comments aid Java program understanding

This paper describes an experiment that investigates the effects of class and method comments on Java program understanding among beginning programmers. Each of the 103 students from CS1 class at Oregon Slate University was given one of four versions (no comments, only method comments, only class comments, and both method and class comments) of a Java database program and answered questions about the program. The results indicated that method comments do increase low-level program understanding, while class comments did not increase high-level understanding. This raises questions about the role of class comments in object-oriented programs, as well as the kind of commenting guidelines that should be used in teaching CS1 classes.
HR-SDBF: an approach to data-centric routing in WSNs

In existing query-based routing protocols in wireless sensor networks (WSNs), a node either keeps precise route information to desired events, such as in event flooding, or does not keep any route to desired events, such as in query flooding. In this paper, we propose a routing protocol, called hint-based routing by scope decay bloom filter (HR-SDBF), that employs probabilistic hints. In the HR-SDBF protocol, each node maintains some probabilistic hints about the potential desired events and routes queries intelligently based on these probabilistic hints. We also put forward a data structure, scope decay bloom filter (SDBF) to encode the probabilistic hints. With SDBF, the amount of information about an event is propagated, without any loss, within the k-hop neighbourhood of the event source, but decreases outside the k-hop neighbourhood as the distance from the event source increases. Compared to existing query-based protocols, HR-SDBF greatly reduces the amortised network traffic without compromising the query success rate, and achieves a higher energy efficiency. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first query routing protocol in WSNs that utilises probabilistic hints encoded in a variant of the bloom filter. Both the analytic and the experimental results support the performance improvement of our protocol.
Extracting Document Structure to Facilitate a Knowledge Base Creation for The UML Superstructure Specification

The research presented in this paper aims at facilitating the creation of knowledge bases (KBs) for software specifications, of which the UML superstructure specification is our initial target. Our motivation is that such specifications are dense, repetitive and difficult to use. They are written primarily in semi-structured text, but the structure must be maintained manually as they are edited, resulting in inconsistency. End users cannot use them efficiently because of the duplications, numerous concepts connected only implicitly, and general complexity of the document. Our immediate objective is to generate a KB for the UML specification by extracting knowledge from as many sources as possible in the document such as document structure, embedded natural language, as well as implicit and explicit cross references. In this paper our focus is the first step: extraction of the document's logical structure. Many key concepts of a document are expressed in this structure, which includes the headings of the chapters, sections, subsections, etc. By extracting such a structure in XML format, we can form a good infrastructure for the subsequent KB creation steps
Distributed multiuser optimization: Algorithms and error analysis

We consider a class of multiuser optimization problems in which user interactions are seen through congestion cost functions or coupling constraints. Our primary emphasis lies on the convergence and error analysis of distributed algorithms in which users communicate through aggregate user information. Traditional implementations are reliant on strong convexity assumptions, require coordination across users in terms of consistent stepsizes, and often rule out early termination by a group of users. We consider how some of these assumptions can be weakened in the context of projection methods motivated by fixed-point formulations of the problem. Specifically, we focus on (approximate) primal and primal-dual projection algorithms. We analyze the convergence behavior of the methods and provide error bounds in settings with limited coordination across users and regimes where a group of users may prematurely terminate affecting the convergence point.
The brain's cutting-room floor: segmentation of narrative cinema

Observers segment ongoing activity into meaningful events. Segmentation is a core component of perception that helps determine memory and guide planning. The current study tested the hypotheses that event segmentation is an automatic component of the perception of extended naturalistic activity, and that the identification of event boundaries in such activities results in part from processing changes in the perceived situation. Observers may identify boundaries between events as a result of processing changes in the observed situation. To test this hypothesis and study this potential mechanism, we measured brain activity while participants viewed an extended narrative film. Large transient responses were observed when the activity was segmented, and these responses were mediated by changes in the observed activity, including characters and their interactions, interactions with objects, spatial location, goals, and causes. These results support accounts that propose event segmentation is automatic and depends on processing meaningful changes in the perceived situation; they are the first to show such effects for extended naturalistic human activity.
The Elders Drum Project: Enhancing Quality of Life for Long-Term Care Residents

The impact of purposeful activity on quality of life for the residents of a long-term care facility was studied through the examination of the Elders Drum Project. This project is a model occupational therapy program that uses drumming and related activities to achieve therapeutic goals for its' participants.Semi-structured interviews and observations were used to collect data from five program participants. The transcribed interviews and field notes were qualitatively analyzed according to emerging themes. Results indicated that the Elders Drum Project positively impacted each participant's quality of life as reflected in self-concept, health status, life satisfaction, and altruism. Participants' strengths were also enhanced through self-directed engagement in purposeful activity; thereby, contributing to quality of life.
50 MHz color flow mapping

Following our previous work on the estimation of blood velocity using high frequency ultrasound, we demonstrate the generation of in-vivo two dimensional (2D) color flow maps. In this paper, using a transducer with a nominal center frequency of 50 MHz, we demonstrate that velocities below 1 mm/s can be distinguished from the surrounding tissue. High resolution 2D maps of very low velocity blood flow within the ciliary body and processes of the rabbit eye are presented.
One piece does not a puzzle make: the first-mover decision as one piece on the foreign investment strategy puzzle

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to analyze the first-mover decision as one decision of a set of strategic decisions that ultimately determine performance. Design/methodology/approach – The author used survey data collected from foreign-invested firms in Sichuan, China, to test for evidence that first-movers perform better than late-movers. Findings – The results reveal that there is a first-mover advantage when the other strategic variables are not included in the model. When the entire set of strategic variables is included, however, the first mover variable loses its significance and the willingness of the foreign partner to commit additional resources becomes the best predictor of performance. Consequently, it was argued that foreign investment strategies should be analyzed as a set of strategic decisions managers make to formulate the best mix. Originality/value – The empirical evidence for the first-mover advantage may not be as well grounded as many have thought. When the first-mover strategi...
Transient response of least-squares-based multiwavelength pyrometers

The transient response of least-squares-based multiwavelength pyrometers to rapid temperature changes is modeled. Results are presented for a one-parameter and a four-parameter linear least-squares pyrometer with 31 wavelengths from 500 to 800 nm. The one-parameter response is very similar to the transient response of a two-color pyrometer. The response is more rapid than expected when the target temperature is rising and slower than expected when the target temperature is falling. The four-parameter pyrometer can overfit and indicate erroneous temperatures.
ERF and ETV3L are retinoic acid-inducible repressors required for primary neurogenesis.

‡SUMMARY Cells in the developing neural tissue demonstrate an exquisite balance between proliferation and differentiation. Retinoic acid (RA) is required for neuronal differentiation by promoting expression of proneural and neurogenic genes. We show that RA acts early in the neurogenic pathway by inhibiting expression of neural progenitor markers Geminin and Foxd4l1, thereby promoting differentiation. Our screen for RA target genes in early Xenopus development identified Ets2 Repressor Factor (Erf) and the closely related ETS repressors Etv3 and Etv3-like (Etv3l). Erf and Etv3l are RA responsive and inhibit the action of ETS genes downstream of FGF signaling, placing them at the intersection of RA and growth factor signaling. We hypothesized that RA regulates primary neurogenesis by inducing Erf and Etv3l to antagonize proliferative signals. Loss-of-function analysis showed that Erf and Etv3l are required to inhibit proliferation of neural progenitors to allow differentiation, whereas overexpression of Erf led to an increase in the number of primary neurons. Therefore, these RA-induced ETS repressors are key components of the proliferation-differentiation switch during primary neurogenesis in vivo.
Caregiver-Physician Medication Concordance and Undertreatment of Asthma Among Inner-City Children

Objective. To assess the extent to which caregivers and their child's physician agree about the prescribed asthma medication regimen and evaluate fac- tors associated with medication concordance. Methods. A cross-sectional, descriptive survey was administered to 318 caregivers of inner-city children with asthma, aged 5 to 12 years, and their caregiver-identified primary care physician at elementary schools and partic- ipants' homes. Concordance between caregiver- and phy- sician-reported controller medication prescription was measured. Results. Only 42% of physicians and 32% of caregiv- ers reported a controller medication prescription (78% agreement, 0.54; 95% confidence interval: 0.45- 0.63) despite that 73% of the children were rated by their caregiver as currently experiencing persistent asthma symptoms. When the physician reported a controller pre- scription, 38% of the caregivers denied use of a control- ler. Having a course of oral steroids in the past year ( 2 9.85) and positive caregiver beliefs toward asthma care ( 2 18.40) were associated with caregiver-physician concordance. Multivariate analysis found that when care- givers had high Asthma Beliefs Scale summary scores versus low scores, they were almost 10 times as likely to be concordant with the physician (odds ratio: 9.76; 95% confidence interval: 2.85-33.46). Conclusions. Our data support previous reports of physician underprescribing of controller medication among inner-city children. However, even when pre- scribed by a physician, more than one third of caregivers did not report a controller prescription, and this dis- cordance was related to caregivers' beliefs about treat- ment. Efforts to improve physician adherence to asthma guidelines will not result in proper treatment unless caregiver-physician communication about asthma ther- apy is improved. Pediatrics 2003;111:e214 -e220. URL: http://www.pediatrics.org/cgi/content/full/111/3/e214; at- titudes, beliefs, adherence, compliance.
Urosepsis Associated With Vaginal Pessary Use

Conservative management of genital prolapse in older women uses vaginal pessaries. Infectious complications of these devices, attributable in some instances to poor routine maintenance, are uncommonly reported. We present 2 cases of genitourinary sepsis associated with unsuspected pessary use and discuss the spectrum of complications reported with these appliances.
Brain drain: the cost of neglected responsibilities in evaluating cumulative effects of environmental chemicals

Developmental disabilities affect millions of people and have a great impact on their lives, their families and the societies where they live. The prevalence of disorders such as autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder as well as subclinical decrements in brain function cannot be explained solely as genetic diseases. Exposures to environmental chemicals, especially during prenatal and early postnatal life, are one likely explanation for some of the decrements. The current chemical risk assessment approach is typically based on the toxicity caused by a single chemical on a variety of organs without acknowledging additional exposures to other chemicals also affecting the same organ or system. We identified more than 300 chemicals allowed in food that may have potential harmful effects on the developing brain. Each individual chemical may or may not have a harmful effect if it were the only one present, but we know next to nothing about their cumulative biological effects on the brain. An expanded cumulative risk assessment approach is needed, and it should focus on health outcomes, like developmental disabilities, arising from the accumulation of effects of multiple chemicals on the brain. The laws regulating the safety of additives already require that regulators in Europe and the USA consider cumulative effects; so far, they seem to have neglected the mandate. We must move beyond treating chemical exposures as isolated incidents and look at their cumulative biological effects on organs and their role in the onset of chronic diseases. The time has come to overhaul chemical risk assessment.
On the feasibility of bandwidth tuning in cascaded non-autonomous chaotic oscillators

In this paper, we investigate the feasibility of bandwidth tuning in cascaded non-autonomous chaotic oscillators. We demonstrate that the bandwidth of cascaded non-autonomous chaotic oscillators can be tuned with the proper choice of circuit parameters.
GEOWORLDS: Utilizing Second Life to Develop Advanced Geosciences Knowledge

In this proposal we describe the design of an advanced geosciences program that uses Second Life Teen World to develop problem-based learning abilities and geosciences concepts in urban students. Geoworldss are complex problem-based scenarios designed into 3-D virtual environments where students can interact with the virtual environment, and each other to develop a solution to the problem space.
Enhancing Faradaic Charge Storage Contribution in Hybrid Pseudocapacitors

Abstract This study aims to provide metrics and design rules for hybrid pseudocapacitors consisting of a transition metal oxide pseudocapacitive electrode and an inert carbon electrode with asymmetric and binary electrolyte. Hybrid pseudocapacitors are often limited by intercalation of Li+ ions in the pseudocapacitive electrode. Then, during cyclic voltammetry, only a portion of the potential window is dominated by faradaic current while the electric double layer (EDL) formation and dissolution dominate the rest. However, faradaic reactions result in a significantly larger current magnitude and capacitance than EDL charge storage. Hence, it is beneficial to extend the fraction of the potential window dominated by the faradaic current. This fraction increases with a combination of thinner pseudocapacitive electrode, faster intercalation, and slower scan rate. To study the interplay between these variables, a scaling analysis was performed to identify the relevant dimensionless similarity parameters governing Li+ transport and intercalation in the pseudocapacitive electrode. The fraction of the potential window dominated by faradaic reactions was a unique function of a dimensionless parameter Πf accounting for the respective contributions of the electrode thickness, Li+ diffusion coefficient, and scan rate. Above a critical value of Πf, the faradaic current dominated the entire potential window. Then, the device was no longer limited by intercalation in the electrode and the performance of the electrode was maximal.
Methodological Note: Using Micro Data to Understand Better the Intergenerational Transmission of Poverty in Low Income Developing Countries

Good empirical analysis of the intergenerational transmission (IGT) of poverty is challenging. This note clarifies this challenge and possible contributions by considering: (1) what estimated relations would be informative for improving understanding within an intergenerational life-cycle behavioural framework with important unobserved variables (e.g. genetics); (2) possible resolutions to estimation problems; and (3) different types of data. The greatest progress can be made by focusing on: Links between parental background and adult child resource access for which effects are thought to be particularly large and relatively uncertain. High quality data regarding (a) representativeness, (b) power, (c) coverage of important concepts for such studies and (d) limited measurement error. Data that permit better estimates, including their robustness to different assumptions - e.g. with complete information on key variables for two or three generations, on intergenerational transfers, linked to time series records on contextual changes, sibling information, experiments, and/or longitudinal data. Through careful examination of existing data, keeping in mind considerations in this note, much can be learned about the IGT of poverty. But it is also important to be alert to opportunities for improving data and for encouraging collection of new and better data.
Selection of a Contraceptive: What Guides A Woman?

The modern contraception revolution is now some 30 years old. From its beginning the provision of contraceptives has been closely guarded by the health care professionals. There were, and are, many reasons for this. However, this paper will not carry out an analysis of these factors.
Modelling mergers among polluting firms when environmental policy is endogenous

This article builds a theoretical model to study merger decisions among polluting firms. We adopt the idea of endogenous policies where governments adjust optimal policy after the occurrence of mergers. We find that the adjustment in policy provides additional incentives to merge. Given a specific model of merger process with endogenous policies, we find that the optimal merger is the one among highly polluting firms. Therefore, in the post-merger market the merged entity is dirtier compared to stand-alone firms.
Gene Therapy for Lysosomal Storage Disorders with Neuropathology

Lysosomes are acidic cellular organelles that function as terminal degradative compartments ([1][1]). Biochemically, these organelles are rich in lysosomal glycoproteins, negative for mannose-6-phosphate receptors ([1][1]), and acidified through the actions of a v-type proton ATPase ([2][2]). More
Effect of travelling disturbances on a rectangular bay of uniform depth

The effect of travelling wind disturbances on a rectangular bay of uniform depth is investigated. The disturbances are represented by square wave pulses travelling along the bay with a given width and a given speed of propagation. The effects of bottom friction and earth's rotation are ignored. The dynamical equations are solved analytically using the method of characteristics and the results are presented in terms of the maximum water level fluctuation at the closed end of the bay as a function of the speed and the width of the disturbances.
Cardiovascular and lysosomal actions of corticosteroids in the intact dog.

SummaryAldosterone, deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA), Cortisol, and methylprednisolone were studied in the vagotomized, baroreceptor denervated dog for hemodynamic actions and lysosomal stabilizing activity in the pancreas. Only aldosterone (0.001 to 0.01 mg/kg) exerted a significant positive inotropic effect. None of the other corticosteroids in doses up to 1 to 40 mg/kg had any detectable effect on mean arterial blood pressure, aortic flow, central venous pressure, or heart rate. Furthermore, the two glucocorticoids (Cortisol and methylprednisolone) significantly stabilized the pancreatic lysosomes both in vivo and in vitro, as determined by the release of β-glucuronidase; whereas neither aldosterone nor DOCA exerted a protective effect on the lysosomal preparations.
Toxicity of a New Strain of Bacillus thuringiensis to Colorado Potato Beetle (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)

A new strain of Bacillus thuringiensis var. san diego is toxic to Colorado potato beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Say), larvae in the laboratory and the field. B. thuringiensis var. san diego is not toxic to a variety of beneficial insects; for this reason, this strain could aid growers in the transition from heavy to low insecticide use for management of Colorado potato beetle. We present laboratory toxicity data, a standardized method for quantifying activities and field trial results for B. thuringiensis var. san diego against Colorado potato beetle, and discuss possible management of this insect with B. thuringiensis var. san diego .
Variation in the incarceration length-recidivism dose–response relationship

Abstract Purpose This research seeks to examine whether the dose–response relationship between incarceration length and recidivism varies across different conviction offense categories and measures of parole failure. Methods We approximate a large fixed panel of parolees from the National Corrections Reporting Program (NCRP) to implement a dose–response analysis of the relationship between incarceration length and the prevalence and timing of recidivism. Marginal mean weighting through stratification (MMW-S) is utilized to limit confounding effects from selection bias. Results We observe that incremental doses of incarceration length increase the likelihood and hasten the timing of parole revocations, and reduce the likelihood and slow the timing of new sentences. Considerable heterogeneity was observed in these effects across conviction offenses, as the direction of effects changed beyond certain thresholds, and was not constant across offender groups. Conclusions These results do not provide consistent support for a suppressive, criminogenic, or null effect for incarceration length on recidivism.
Epidemiological study on an elementary school aggregation of adenovirus type 7

Objective To determine the pathogen of a school aggregation and analyze epidemic characteristic of adenovirus 7 and to analyze the epidemical factors and spread ways,for taking effective control measures.Methods Individual questionnaire was used in the field,and epidemic characteristic was described.We took samples of throat swab or aspirates,and RT-PCR was used to detect viral nucleic acid and determine pathogen.Results 27 cases were found.No dead and server patients.The school aggregation respiratory epidemic of adenovirus was confirmed by RT-PCR.The main clinical symptoms included fever,temperature above38℃,weak,headache,cough,sore throat,nausea and vomit.Conclusion The epidemic of respiratory infectious disease occurs in primary school is caused by adenovirus 7.The routes of transmission are air and close contact.
Transplant atherosclerosis: the clinical syndrome, pathogenesis and possible model of spontaneous atherosclerosis.

OBJECTIVE To summarize the clinical syndrome of transplant atherosclerosis, including the clinical risk factors, pathological features and known pathophysiological mechanisms. The review also examines transplant atherosclerosis and naturally occurring atherosclerosis to delineate common pathophysiological mechanisms and to promote transplant atherosclerosis as a model for the more commonly occurring spontaneous process. STUDY SELECTION Information gathered includes studies related to transplantation, endothelium, atherosclerosis, macrophages, lipoproteins and vascular smooth muscle. All studies cited were published prior to 1992. CONCLUSIONS Transplant atherosclerosis appears to result from a 'response to injury' of the endothelium, similar to naturally occurring atherosclerosis. The injury is diffuse, chronic and related to immune and nonimmune factors. Cellular and antibody-mediated rejection, cytomegalovirus infection and cytokine-induced vessel wall cell proliferation provide potential targets for future pharmacological and biological therapy.
Multiplexed imaging reveals heterogeneity of PI3K/MAPK network signaling in breast lesions of known PIK3CA genotype

Purpose Activating genetic changes in the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K) signaling pathway are found in over half of invasive breast cancers (IBCs). Previously, we discovered numerous hotspot PIK3CA mutations in proliferative breast lesions. Here, we investigate the spatial nature of PI3K pathway signaling and its relationship with PI3K genotype in breast lesions.
Making the cut: Surgery on the board

Abstract Intervention, such as that performed via surgical procedures, is necessary when a board of directors is not functioning as it should. Unlike medical procedures, members of a board of directors have to perform surgery on themselves for change to occur. Board surgery might require resizing the board, invoking term limits, establishing conflict of interest policies, and increased emphasis on board member competencies. This article describes the symptoms leading to the need for surgery and suggests that it is better to perform elective surgery rather than let problems reach the point of requiring emergency surgery.
Telemedicine, Anesthesia, and Global Health

Telemedicine, the practice of medicine over a distance, is a potential tool to address the worldwide disparities in health care. The lack of anesthetic capacity in low-income countries contributes substantially to the worldwide toll of preventable deaths from surgical diseases. Distance anesthetic education between high- and low-income countries can supplement the existing educational institutions in low-income countries, as well as promote communities of practice dedicated to quality anesthetic care.
Postponed Feeding Does Not Substantially Reduce Production Expense during Pond Rearing of Hybrid Catfish Fry

AbstractProduction variables of hybrid catfish (Channel Catfish Ictalurus punctatus × Blue Catfish I. furcatus) reared in nursery ponds and then stocked were compared between fish fed immediately after stocking (standard industry practice) and fish for which feeding was postponed after stocking. Ponds (0.04 ha) were stocked with swim-up fry at 10,000 fish/pond (250,000 fish/ha). At 2 weeks poststocking, fish in the postponed feeding treatment were significantly smaller than fish in the standard feeding protocol. Therefore, all ponds began receiving commercial diets after 2 weeks. At 2 weeks poststocking and continuing through 5 weeks poststocking, the average individual fish length and weight was greater for the standard feeding protocol than for the postponed feeding protocol. At harvest, there were no differences in production variables between the two feeding protocols. Unlike a previous study with Channel Catfish fry, where feed was withheld for 6 weeks without compromising production, noticeable defi...
Which Abortion Patients Have Had a Prior Abortion? Findings from the 2014 U.S. Abortion Patient Survey

Abstract Background: Updated information about abortion patients who have had a prior abortion could inform patient-centered practices that help women avoid unintended pregnancies in the future. Materials and Methods: Data come from a national sample of 8,380 nonhospital U.S. abortion patients accessing services at 87 facilities. The dependent variable was a self-reported measure of prior abortion. Bivariate and multivariable analyses were used to assess associations between a range of demographic and circumstantial characteristics and reports of obtaining a prior abortion. Results: We found that 45% of patients reported having one or more prior abortions. Age was most strongly associated with this outcome, and patients aged 30 and older had more than two times the odds of having had a prior abortion compared with those aged 20–24. Other characteristics associated with an increased likelihood of prior abortion included having one or more children, being black, relying on insurance or financial assistance ...
Scientific Databases for Environmental Research

Databases are an important tool in the arsenal of environmental researchers. There are a rich variety of database types available to researchers for the management of their own data and for sharing data with others. However, using databases for research is not without challenges due to the characteristics of scientific data, which differ in terms of longevity, volume, diversity and ways they are used from many business applications. This chapter reviews some successful scientific databases, pathways for developing scientific data resources, and general classes of Database Management Systems (DBMS). It also provides an introduction to data modeling, normalization and how databases and data derived from databases can be interlinked to produce new scientific products.
The selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor fluoxetine increases spontaneous afferent firing, but not mechanonociceptive sensitization, in octopus

Serotonin is a widely studied modulator of neural plasticity. Here we investigate the effect of fluoxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, on short-term, peripheral nociceptive plasticity in the neurologically complex invertebrate, octopus. After crush injury to isolated mantle (body wall) tissue, application of 10 nM fluoxetine increased spontaneous firing in crushed preparations, but had a minimal effect on mechanosensory sensitization. Effects largely did not persist after washout. We suggest that transiently elevated, endogenous serotonin may help promote initiation of longer-term plasticity of nociceptive afferents and drive immediate and spontaneous behaviors aimed at protecting wounds and escaping dangerous situations.
Coastal Blue Carbon Assessment of Mangroves, Salt Marshes, and Salt Barrens in Tampa Bay, Florida, USA

Compared to other terrestrial environments, coastal “blue carbon” habitats such as salt marshes and mangrove forests sequester disproportionately large amounts of carbon as standing plant biomass and peat deposits. This study quantified organic carbon stocks in 16 salt marshes, salt barrens, and mangrove forests in Tampa Bay, Florida, USA. The sites included natural, restored, and created wetlands of varying ages and degrees of anthropogenic impacts. Peat deposits were generally less than 30-cm deep and organic content rapidly decreased with depth in all habitats. The top 15 cm of mangrove soil contained an average of 11.0% organic carbon by weight, salt marshes contained 6.6%, and salt barrens contained 1.0%. Total organic carbon stock in mangroves was 133.6 ± 12.8 Mg ha−1, with 69.5% of that carbon stored belowground. Salt marshes contained 66.4 ± 25.0 Mg ha−1 (93.5% belowground carbon), and salt barrens contained 26.6 ± 8.3 Mg ha−1 (96.1% belowground carbon). These values were much lower than global averages for carbon stocks in mangroves and salt marshes, likely due to Tampa Bay’s location near the northern limit of mangrove habitat, sandy soil, young age of the restored wetlands, presence of mosquito ditches, and recent habitat conversion from salt marshes to mangroves. In the late 1800s, Tampa Bay’s coastal wetlands were dominated by salt marshes, but today they are dominated by mangroves. Based on the blue carbon values from the natural sites in this study, this habitat switching has led to the additional sequestration of 141,000 Mg of carbon in remaining wetlands in the Tampa Bay watershed.
The Prevalence of Adverse Ocular Hemorrhagic Events in Patients Utilizing Oral Anticoagulant and Antiplatelet Therapy in Routine Clinical Practice.

Background and objective Previous literature assessing ocular hemorrhagic complications of anticoagulant/antiplatelet medications in routine clinical practice is limited. This study evaluates the prevalence of spontaneous ocular hemorrhagic events associated with anticoagulation/antiplatelet therapy. Patients and methods A retrospective study was performed to identify patients taking anticoagulants (rivaroxaban [Xarelto; Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Beerse, Belgium], bivalirudin [Angiomax; The Medicines Company, Parsippany, NJ], lepirudin [Refludan; Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals, Berlin, Germany], dabigatran [Pradaxa; Boehringer Ingelheim, Ingelheim am Rhein, Germany], and argatroban) and antiplatelet agents (clopidogrel [Plavix; Bristol-Myers Squibb, New York City, NY], prasugrel [Effient; Lilly Medical, Indianapolis, IN], and ticagrelor [Brilinta; AstraZeneca, Cambridge, UK]) who presented for an eye examination. Location of hemorrhage, relevant systemic and ocular comorbidities, baseline demographics, and concomitant aspirin use were noted. Results A total of 44 patients with spontaneous ocular hemorrhage were identified. Thirty patients had a single episode, whereas 14 patients had multiple episodes (two or more hemorrhagic events). Prevalence of spontaneous ocular hemorrhage on prasugrel (7.2%) and rivaroxaban (3.1%) was higher compared to dabigatran (1.9%), clopidogrel (2.0%), and ticagrelor (2.7%). Conclusion Prevalence of spontaneous ocular hemorrhage with use of anticoagulant/antiplatelet agents is higher in routine clinical practice as compared to previously reported literature. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2018;49:27-34.].
wide-field and long-ranging-depth optical coherence tomography microangiography of human oral mucosa (Conference Presentation)

Oral examination requires comprehensive visual assessment of microcirculatory tissue bed as guidance for acquiring biopsy samples. Due to limited visual resolution and subjective evaluation criteria, physicians usually have limited access to the detailed state of diseases, consequently have difficulty in managing oral treatment at early stage. An endoscopic microscopy may help improve the detectable resolution on regional mucosa surface, but hardly reach deeper structures/vasculatures that reveals pathological origination and development. We propose a novel use of long ranging swept source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) system with unprecedented imaging field of view of 1600 mm2 for anatomic and microvascular imaging of human oral mucosa tissue in vivo. This system is further applied to identify and analyze oral mucosa lesions in situ without a need for invasive biopsy. Qualitative assessment of the structure characteristics (i.e. collagen fibrosis, volume of salivary glands, and tissue scattering) during wound healing delineates the anatomical lesion development accompanied with tissue inflammation. Quantitative assessment of the vasculature network (i.e. capillary loop density and vessel morphological orientations) reveals pathological and nutritional underpinnings of microcirculation for oral lesion recovery. Specifically, the progression of oral capillary angiogenesis, indicated by elevations in capillary loop density, occurs within 12 hours of disease onset and peaks at day 7 thereafter, which provide invaluable information for the time course of therapeutic treatment. Our demonstration shows potential movement of oral cavity OCT microangiography toward clinical translations.
Combining Predictions and Assessing Uncertainty from Sediment Transport Equations Using Multivariate Bayesian Model Averaging

AbstractA key assumption in the use of numerical sediment transport models is the selection and application of an equation to describe sediment transport capacity. This assumption introduces uncert...
Components of a Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Center

The incidence of morbid obesity is increasing in epidemic proportions. Morbidly obese patients often carry multiple diagnoses, and many surgeons who had embarked on this specialty rapidly realized that the safest and most effective approach to managing these patients successfully is through a comprehensive management program. This chapter presents a brief outline of the scope of the obesity problem and the criteria that are required for patient eligibility for weight-loss surgery. We describe the components of a successful, comprehensive bariatric center including essential staff, ancillary personnel, material infrastructure, and educational and patient support strategies.
Glucagon receptor causes glucagon-dependent activation of Erk1/2 in H22 stable cell lines

Glucagon plays an important role in the regulation of glucose homeostasis by stimulation of glucose output in response to low blood glucose levels and by the potentiation of glucose-induced insulin secretion. These effects are mediated by the glucagon receptor, a member of the Class II group of receptors within a superfamily of seven transmembranespanning receptors that couple to heterotrimeric G proteins (GPCRs). The Class II receptors share few common features with other GPCRs, but nevertheless couple to the same set of G proteins which activate multiple signaling pathways. Recent studies have demonstrated that subunits of heterotrimeric G proteins modulate mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAP kinases), upon ligand activation of G protein-coupled receptors. The MAP kinases, which include Erkl/2 (p44/p42 MAPK), integrate information from several signaling pathways to initiate cellular differentiation, transformation, and proliferation. Erkl/2 are known to be activated by tyrosine kinase receptors (TRK) which possess intrinsic tyrosine kinase activity, via pathways involving a series of protein-protein interactions and phosphorylation by other kinases. However, the mechanism by which ligand interaction with its G protein-coupled receptor at the cell surface results in the potentiation of MAP kinase activity is still undefined. Glucagon has been reported to affect MAP kinases leading to a decrease in activity in different cell types [1,2]. In this report, we show that glucagon increased MAP kinase activity and induced a dose-dependent phosphorylation of Erkl/2 in HEK 293 (H22) cells stably expressing the rat glucagon receptor. To sort out the components of the signaling pathway leading from initial glucagon recognition and binding to its receptor at the cell surface, to the phosphorylation of Erkl/2 in H22 cells, we examined the functional coupling of the glucagon receptor and endogenous GPCRs with G proteins in H22 cells, using assays for hormone-dependent production of cAMP, inositol phosphates, and calcium flux. MAP kinase activation was assessed by immunoblot analysis of H22 cell lysates with anti-phospho-p44/42 MAP kinase polyclonal antibody.