cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ultrastructure of SARS-CoV, FIPV, and MHV revealed by electron cryomicroscopy.

* The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California. The current understanding of coronavirus ultrastructure relies heavily on transmission electron microscopy of negatively stained images. Such images typically show desiccated specimens and derive contrast from the accumulation of heavy metal negative stains, distorting the sample in the resulting image. Electron cryomicroscopy (cryo-EM) avoids some of the drawbacks of negative staining by imaging frozen specimens preserved in a fully hydrated state in vitreous ice. Cryo-EM images typically derive contrast solely from the density of the imaged sample and the surrounding ice matrix. A limited analysis of porcine transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV) imaged by cryo-EM has been previously reported. In this report we present a more detailed description of the supramolecular design of three coronaviruses: SARS coronavirus (SARS-CoV), feline infectious peritonitis virus (FIPV), and murine hepatitis virus (MHV). Coronaviruses are usually classified as non-icosahedral, pleomorphic, enveloped viruses. Cryo-EM has revealed that other pleomorphic viruses have a roughly spherical appearance, studded with projections that correspond to oligomers of the attachment and fusion protein. Examples include influenza virus; several retroviruses such as foamy virus, human immunodeficiency virus, murine leukemia virus, and Rous sarcoma virus; La Crosse virus; Sendai virus; and Pichinde, Tacaribe, and lymphocytic choriomeningitis viruses. Based on single-particle image analysis of arenaviruses imaged by cryo-EM, we have proposed that pleomorphic arenavirus particles are constructed from overlapping paracrystalline lattices of proteins, and that these lattices span the viral membrane. We hypothesized that coronaviruses may contain a similar supramolecular arrangement of proteins comprising a membrane-proximal scaffold. Here we used cryo-EM to examine the ultrastructure of a selection of coronaviruses representing two of the three proposed phylogenetic groups.
Resilient Multi-Agent Consensus Using Wi-Fi Signals

Consensus is an important capability at the heart of many multi-agent systems. Unfortunately the ability to reach consensus can be easily disrupted by the presence of an adversarial agent that spawns or spoofs malicious nodes in the network in order to gain a disproportionate influence on the converged value of the system as a whole. In this letter, we present a light-weight approach for spoof-resiliency with provable guarantees that solely utilizes information from wireless signals. Unlike prior approaches, our method requires no additional protocol or data storage beyond signals that are already present in the network. We establish an analytical, probabilistic bound on the influence of spoofed nodes in the system on the converged consensus value. We present results of our Wi-Fi based resilient consensus algorithm and demonstrate its effectiveness for different consensus problems such as flocking and rendezvous.
In the Labyrinth of Slow Time: “A Perturbation in the Deep Stream” and “A Perambulation in the Deep Stream”

This work includes two texts on the themes of gardens and slow time presented in a reading with David Mitchell at the University of St Andrews 2017 conference on Mitchell. These works of ‘truthful fiction’ extend from an ongoing project, The Petriverse of Pierre Jardin. Written in dialogue with The Bone Clocks and featuring a collaboration with Mitchell, they explore the Cretan labyrinth as a cultural and topological motif and recount Jardin’s designing a garden with a meditative labyrinth. The afterword situates the texts in a broader context of bringing the ‘slow’ movement to academic institutions and teaching Mitchell’s work in connection with contemplative pedagogies.
Encapsulation and Ultrasound-Triggered Release of G-Quadruplex DNA in Multilayer Hydrogel Microcapsules

Nucleic acid therapeutics have the potential to be the most effective disease treatment strategy due to their intrinsic precision and selectivity for coding highly specific biological processes. However, freely administered nucleic acids of any type are quickly destroyed or rendered inert by a host of defense mechanisms in the body. In this work, we address the challenge of using nucleic acids as drugs by preparing stimuli responsive poly(methacrylic acid)/poly(N-vinylpyrrolidone) (PMAA/PVPON)n multilayer hydrogel capsules loaded with ~7 kDa G-quadruplex DNA. The capsules are shown to release their DNA cargo on demand in response to both enzymatic and ultrasound (US)-triggered degradation. The unique structure adopted by the G-quadruplex is essential to its biological function and we show that the controlled release from the microcapsules preserves the basket conformation of the oligonucleotide used in our studies. We also show that the (PMAA/PVPON) multilayer hydrogel capsules can encapsulate and release ~450 kDa double stranded DNA. The encapsulation and release approaches for both oligonucleotides in multilayer hydrogel microcapsules developed here can be applied to create methodologies for new therapeutic strategies involving the controlled delivery of sensitive biomolecules. Our study provides a promising methodology for the design of effective carriers for DNA vaccines and medicines for a wide range of immunotherapies, cancer therapy and/or tissue regeneration therapies in the future.
Design Considerations of Tri-mode Intelligent Solid State Circuit Breaker Using GaN Transistors

The purpose of this paper is to introduce a bidirectional, GaN based, autonomously operated, intelligent solid-state circuit breaker (SSCB) or iBreaker. The iBreaker features tri-mode operation of three distinct operation states: ON, OFF, and PWM Current Limiting (PWM-CL) for a wide range of conditions such as short circuit fault interruption and startup inrush current in both current directions. While the conventional ON/OFF states allow the iBreaker to conduct normal load currents or interrupt fault currents, the PWM-CL state allows gradual charging of the input capacitor of an electronic load at a limited inrush current level during startup. The iBreaker can switch from PWM-CL to OFF state if a true short circuit fault is determined after a short detection time window. The bidirectional iBreaker is based on the concept of operating a back-to-back buck converter with a variable frequency PWM technique, and combines programmable digital control with fast acting analog control. The experimental results on a 380V/20A iBreaker prototype using commercial 650V GaN FETs are reported. Special design considerations related to the use of GaN FET are discussed in detail in this paper, including thermal design, damping of GaN switching di/dt, and overvoltage protection due to the fact that GaN FETs lack avalanche capability.
What storytelling tells us about fantasy: parent-child stories about emotionally-charged real and fantastic events

This study examined parent-child storytelling for insights into children’s fantastical thinking. We targeted differences in storytelling based on story genre (fictional-reality and fictional-fantas...
Examining the Connections between the Work We Do and Our Mental Health. National Association for Kinesiology in Higher Education 29th Delphine Hanna Commemorative Lecture 2020.

Solving the issues brought forward in previous Hanna lectures and current discussion requires serious amounts of energy. This energy comes from individuals, working together, while also simultaneou...
Correction to: Time‑trend population analysis of the clinical and epidemiologic effect on pediatric infective endocarditis after change of antibiotic prophylaxis guidelines

The original version of this article unfortunately contained a mistake. In the author list, the first and last names were tagged incorrectly. The corrected author list is given above.
Microwave Ablation of Adrenal Tumors in Patients With Continuous Intra-Arterial Blood Pressure Monitoring Without Prior Alpha-Adrenergic Blockade: Safety and Efficacy

Evaluate the safety and efficacy of adrenal microwave ablation performed with continuous intra-arterial blood pressure monitoring (IABPM) and without alpha-adrenergic blockade (AAB) as pretreatment. A single-center, retrospective review of all percutaneous adrenal microwave ablation performed between 2011 and 2018. Microwave ablation was completed on 11 patients, with a total of 15 adrenal tumors with a mean size of 3.3 cm (1.4–6.9 cm) treated metastatic RCC, HCC, esophageal carcinoma, adrenal adenoma. Cases were performed without prior AAB, but with continuous IABPM and rapid intervention using short-acting antihypertensive medications. There were no post-procedural episodes of hypertension, no neurological or cardiovascular complications, and no SIR moderate or worse adverse event complications. Mean intraprocedural maximum systolic blood pressure (SBP) was 211 mmHg (range: 132–288), with an average increase in SBP of 100 mmHg (range: 23–180). A hypertensive crisis (SBP ≥ 180 and/or DBP ≥ 120) occurred in 9 of the 15 procedures (60%) with a mean length of 3.0 min (range: 1–12). The technical success rate was 100% (15/15 procedures). The mean follow-up time was 2.4 years (range: 0.9–7.7 years), with primary and secondary efficacy rates of 77% and 87%, respectively, and an overall survival of 82%. In this single-center retrospective study, microwave ablation of adrenal tumors without AAB was safe and effective when performed with continuous arterial line monitoring of vital signs and the use of short-acting, rapid-onset antihypertensive medications. Level 4, Case Series.
Bifurcation problems for second order systems

Abstract In this paper, we consider the following linear system of second order differential equations (0.1) u ′ ′ + A ( t ) u = 0 , 0 ≤ t ∞ where, for each t , A ( t ) is an n × n matrix with real components, and positive with respect to the usual cone K in R n . Conditions are provided in order that the first conjugate point T of t = 0 , i.e. the smallest T such that the above equation has a nontrivial solution u : [ 0 , T ] → K satisfying the boundary conditions u ( 0 ) = 0 = u ( T ) will be a bifurcation point for higher order perturbations of the equation. The paper is mainly motivated by results in Ahmad and Lazer (1997, 1980); Ahmad and Salazar (1981) and Schmitt (1975); Schmitt and Smith (1978). Some additional new consequences are discussed.
Educational Psychology at the Core: Adapting a Sustainable Method for Core Journal Lists

Building on previous research, the author describes the mixed-methods approach, using tools familiar to most academic librarians, utilized to create a list of journal titles for possible inclusion ...
Free Speech in the Academy: Living Our Values During Challenging Times

This article explores the role of campuses and universities in protecting free speech while providing for the needs of students adversely impacted by speaker content. A specific event at the Univer...
Let's chat like this

"Let's Chat Like This" is an interactive system that allows two people to observe each others' moods through interacting with a shared interactively generated image. The moving image changes according to the two people's facial expressions. Different from traditional ways of communication, "Let's Chat Like This" focuses more on the emotional aspect of communication. It shows a visualization of the complexity of human emotion and boosts people's emotional communication in a creative no-verbal way. When experiencing this work, people's emotions are bound together with the same moving image they see. The moving image changes depending on their moods. They will be aware of their current moods as well as the other's, the intimacy and empathy between them will be increased. This is not only a "social distancing" art installation that helps us connect emotionally during the COVID-19 pandemic, but also my hypothesis of what future emotional communication will be like. I hope this artwork can evoke deep thinking and maybe cheer people up in this challenging time.
Topical corticosteroid use for atopic dermatitis in the pediatric emergency department.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES To investigate the evaluation and management of atopic dermatitis (AD) in the pediatric emergency department (PED). METHODS This retrospective chart review was performed at the PED of a single institution and examined data from 2012 to 2017. Of 335 visits from patients 18 years and younger coded for AD, 167 visits with documented findings that supported a diagnosis of AD according to guidelines from the American Academy of Dermatology were included. RESULTS The mean age of presentation was 6.3 years (standard deviation [SD]: 5.9). Of 11 patients with multiple visits, the mean between-visit interval was 31 days (SD: 41). Topical corticosteroids (TCSs) were not prescribed or recommended in 63/167 visits. In an additional 46/167 visits, over-the-counter topical hydrocortisone was recommended. Of prescribed TCS, the mean TCS class was 5.5 (SD: 1.9). 61/104 recommended or prescribed TCSs were weak (Class 7), the most likely used class (P < .001). Dermatology consultation was requested in 14/167 visits and was associated with higher rates of TCS prescriptions (13/14 vs 91/153, P = .018), a higher mean class of TCS prescribed (3.1 vs 5.9, P < .001), higher prescription rates of systemic antibiotics (8/14 vs 10/153, P < .001), and higher recommendation rates for emollient usage (10/14 vs 46/153, P = .005). CONCLUSIONS Most patients presenting to the PED for AD were either not prescribed a TCS or were prescribed a weak TCS, often one that is over-the-counter. While there may be a variety of explanations for these findings, it is possible they reveal a practice gap regarding AD management in the PED.
Chronic kidney disease recognition amongst physicians and advanced practice providers.

OBJECTIVE Chronic kidney disease is a worldwide public health issue, with increasing prevalence resulting in high morbidity and mortality. As a result, recognizing and treating it early can lead to improved outcomes. We hypothesized that some providers might be more comfortable making this diagnosis than others. METHODS Retrospective study of 380 patients with chronic kidney disease seen between 2012 and 2016 in an outpatient setting. RESULTS Three hundred and sixteen patients were treated by physicians and sixty-four by advanced practice providers. Chronic kidney disease was identified by the primary care providers in 318 patients (83.6%). Patients recognized with chronic kidney disease were older, 76 ± 8.8 vs 72 ± 7.45 years, p = 0.001; had lower GFR, 37 [29, 46] vs 57 [37, 76] ml/min/1.73 m2, p < 0.0001 and were more likely to be seen by a physician compared to an advanced practice provider: 272/316 (86%) vs 46/64 (71.8%), p = 0.008. In multivariate analyses, care by a physician, OR = 2.27 (1.13-4.58), p = 0.02 was associated with increased recognition of chronic kidney disease. On the other hand, higher GFR was associated with decreased diagnosis of chronic kidney disease, OR = 0.95 (0.93-0.96), p < 0.0001. CONCLUSION The odds of chronic kidney disease recognition were higher amongst physicians in comparison to non-physician providers.
Long-term follow-up of a randomized clinical trial comparing glycemic excursion minimization (GEM) to weight loss (WL) in the management of type 2 diabetes.

INTRODUCTION We previously reported the physical, psychological and behavioral 3-month post-treatment results of a randomized controlled trial comparing glycemic excursion minimization (GEM) versus conventional weight loss (WL) therapy in the management of type 2 diabetes (T2D). GEM is a paradigm shift in the lifestyle management of T2D that focuses on reducing postnutrient glucose excursions, rather than reducing weight. We now present the 13-month follow-up results. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS The initial study sample of 172 were 30-80 years old, had T2D for ≤10 years, an HbA1c ≥6.8% (51 mmol/mol), and were not using insulin. Participants were randomized to 6 hours of group treatment, either to WL or one of three versions of GEM. GEM groups differed in degree of blood glucose (BG) feedback provided during treatment: no recommended feedback, systematic capillary BG feedback before and after nutrient intake and physical activity, or continuous glucose monitoring. Since these GEM groups did not differ in pre-post improvement they were combined for initial and current analyses. Of those who completed the 3-month postassessment, 100% and 96% of the WL and GEM participants completed the 13-month follow-up assessment. RESULTS Pre to follow-up within-group comparisons indicated WL participants sustained improvement in body mass index (BMI) (-0.9±1.4, p=0.001). GEM participants continued to benefit in their HbA1c (-0.5±1.4, p<0.001), BMI (-1±1, p<0.001), high-density lipoprotein (p<0.001), reduction of carbohydrate ingestion (p<0.001), self-monitoring of blood glucose satisfaction (p<0.001) and frequency (p<0.001), diabetes knowledge (p<0.001), diabetes empowerment (p<0.001), and both diabetes distress emotional (p=0.009) and regimen (p=0.001) subscales. Forty-two percent and 52% of WL and GEM participants, respectively, were classified as responders (individuals whose A1c dropped by at least -0.5%), with a mean HbA1c reduction of -1.2% and -1.5%. Neither WL nor GEM responders differed from non-responders in baseline demographics, psychological or disease severity variables. While WL responders could not be predicted, 73% of GEM responders were predicted by post minus pretreatment reductions of HbA1c, diabetes medication and BMI. CONCLUSIONS While WL sustained improvement in BMI, GEM sustained benefits across a broad range of physical, behavioral and psychological parameters, beneficial for clinicians and adults with T2D. This may be especially relevant for primary care physicians who manage about 90% of patients with T2D. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT03196895.
Relative Prices and Intersectorale Capital Transfers into Romanian Economy – Applied Method

Abstract Starting from the fundamental precept according to which the gross value added represents the reward of the primary factors of crop production (land, labour and capital) and from the “circularity” theory (the sum of inflows to a system is equal to the sum of outflows), the utilized methodological approach presupposes that the (implicit) inter-sectoral capital transfers result from the transactions between sectors, i.e. from the sale-purchase of commodities and services, while the sectoral prices can evolve at different rates from the price rates in overall national economy, resulting that the sectors with prices lower than the macro-economy aggregate average price will ‘receive’ capital resources, supplied by other sectors. The necessary information base consists of data on the level, structure and dynamics of total GVA (GDP), by formation resources (branches), in the period 1980 – 2017, while the methodological support of the study is represented by the relatively less known capital transfer quantification method.
Nonparametric and semiparametric compound estimation in multiple covariates

We consider the problem of simultaneously estimating a mean response function and its partial derivatives, when the mean response function depends nonparametrically on two or more covariates. To address this problem, we propose a "compound estimation" approach, in which differentiation and estimation are interchangeable: an estimated partial derivative is exactly equal to the corresponding partial derivative of the estimated mean response function. Compound estimation yields essentially optimal convergence rates and may exhibit substantially smaller squared error in finite samples compared to local regression. We also explain how to employ compound estimation under more general circumstances, when the mean response function depends parametrically on some additional covariates and the observations are not statistically independent. In a case study, we apply compound estimation to examine how the progression of Parkinson's disease may relate to a subject's age and the signal fractal scaling exponent of the subject's recorded voice. Especially among those intermediate in age, an abnormal signal fractal scaling exponent may portend greater symptom progression.
Carrier loss analysis for ultraviolet light-emitting diodes

This study investigates the physical mechanisms behind carrier loss in a top-emitting LED with U-shaped n-contact and semi-transparent p-contact using the three-dimensional (3D) device simulation software APSYS which was improved for the purpose of this investigation. The software self-consistently combines carrier transport, quantum well effects, self heating, and optical ray tracing. The model includes drift and diffusion of electrons and holes, Fermi statistics, built-in polarization and thermionic emission at hetero-interfaces, as well as spontaneous and defect related Shockley-Read-Hall (SRH) recombination of carriers. For the quantum wells, Schrodinger and Poisson equations are solved iteratively to account for bias-dependent changes. A recent compilation of wurtzite band structure parameters is used in the simulation.
Stochastic analysis on manifolds

Introduction Stochastic differential equations and diffusions Basic stochastic differential geometry Brownian motion on manifolds Brownian motion and heat kernel Short-time asymptotics Further applications Brownian motion and analytic index theorems Analysis on path spaces Notes and comments General notations Bibliography Index.
SPR imaging measurements of 1-D and 2-D DNA microarrays created from microfluidic channels on gold thin films.

Microfluidic channels fabricated from poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) are employed in surface plasmon resonance imaging experiments for the detection of DNA and RNA adsorption onto chemically modified gold surfaces. The PDMS microchannels are used to (i) fabricate “1-D” single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) line arrays that are used in SPR imaging experiments of oligonucleotide hybridization adsorption and (ii) create “2-D” DNA hybridization arrays in which a second set of PDMS microchannels are placed perpendicular to a 1-D line array in order to deliver target oligonucleotide solutions. In the 1-D line array experiments, the total sample volume is 500 μL; in the 2-D DNA array experiments, this volume is reduced to 1 μL. As a demonstration of the utility of these microfluidic arrays, a 2-D DNA array is used to detect a 20-fmol sample of in vitro transcribed RNA from the uidA gene of a transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana plant. It is also shown that this array fabrication method can be used for fluorescence measurements ...
Two-stage superficialis tendon reconstruction in severely damaged fingers

In 16 fingers in 12 patients, where profundus tendon reconstruction was contraindicated due to soft tissue and distal joint changes, the superficialis tendon was reconstructed in two stages using a round silicone rod from the distal interphalangeal joint to the lumbrical level in the palm and profundus-superficialis tenorrhaphy as the first stage. The proximal end of the pedicled superficialis was used as the graft in the second stage. Fifteen fingers obtained a satisfactory result; one was a failure when the rod protruded through the skin. Two patients required a third surgical procedure: one a tenolysis at the superficialis-profundus junction, the other reattachment of the graft distally.
A Hammett correlation for CC-1065 and duocarmycin analogs: magnitude of substituent electronic effects on functional reactivity.

Abstract A quantitative Hammett study of the magnitude of the electronic effects of a C7 substituent on the functional reactivity of N-BOC-CBI (5, RH), its impact on biological properties, details of the mechanism of the acid-catalyzed nucleophilic addition to the activated cyclopropane, and its implications on the origin of the DNA alkylation selectivity of this class of agents is detailed.
Experimental Investigation on the Use of Photostrictive Optical Actuator for MEMS Devices and Verification With the FEA Modeling Results

Photostrictive materials are lanthanum-modified lead zirconate titanate (Pb, La)(Zr, Ti) O3 ceramics doped with WO3 , called PLZT, exhibit large photostriction under uniform illumination of high-energy light. Photostrictive materials are ferrodielectric ceramics that have a photostrictive effect. Photostriction arises from a superposition of the photovoltaic effect, i.e. the generation of large voltage from the irradiation of light, and the converse-piezoelectric effect, i.e. expansion or contraction under the voltage applied. When non-centrosymmetric materials, such as ferroelectric single crystals or polarized ferroelectric ceramics, are uniformly illuminated, a high voltage, considerably exceeding the band gap energy, is generated. Along with this photovoltage, mechanical strain is also induced due to the converse piezoelectric effect. Photostrictive materials offer the potential for actuators with many advantages over traditional transducing electromechanical actuators made of shape memory alloys and electroceramics (piezoelectric and electrostrictive). Drawback of traditional actuators is that they require hard-wired connections to transmit the control signals which introduce electrical noise into the control signals; on the other hand PLZT actuators offer non-contact actuation, remote control, and immune from electric/magnetic disturbances. Some experimental research has been conducted on the use of PLZT materials, such as optical motor as an electromechanical device suitable for miniaturization, micro-waking machine, photo driven relay device using PLZT bimorphs and high speed (less than 10 ns), low-voltage, low power consumption optical switch. Authors have developed a computational method and implemented in an in-house finite element code which will be useful for designing systems incorporating thin film photostrictive actuators. The purpose of this current research work is to design and develop an experimental test set-up for photostriction effect measurement of PLZT thin film of different thickness, size and location on silicon wafer as smart beams, which may be useful for various MEMS device as optical actuator. The experimental results will be verified by comparing with the FEA modeling results.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Obstetrical anal sphincter laceration and anal incontinence 5-10 years after childbirth

Objective The purpose of this study was to investigate the long-term impact of anal sphincter laceration on anal incontinence. Study Design Five to 10 years after first delivery, anal incontinence and other bowel symptoms were measured with the Epidemiology of Prolapse and Incontinence Questionnaire and the short form of the Colorectal-Anal Impact Questionnaire. Obstetric exposures were assessed with review of hospital records. Symptoms and quality-of-life impact were compared among 90 women with at least 1 anal sphincter laceration, 320 women who delivered vaginally without sphincter laceration, and 527 women who delivered by cesarean delivery. Results Women who sustained an anal sphincter laceration were most likely to report anal incontinence (odds ratio, 2.32; 95% confidence interval, 1.27–4.26) and reported the greatest negative impact on quality of life. Anal incontinence and quality-of-life scores were similar between women who delivered by cesarean section and those who delivered vaginally without sphincter laceration. Conclusion Anal sphincter laceration is associated with anal incontinence 5-10 years after delivery.
3He+ ISS of 11-mercaptoundecanoic acid self-assembled monolayers onto gold

Abstract ISS and XPS spectra were recorded before and after forming an organized molecular assembly (OMA) of HS(CH2)10COOH, 11-mercaptoundecanoic acid (MUA) on 20 nm thick gold thin films on a silicon substrate. The MUA/OMA is attached to gold via the thiol (SH) group, and the acid group (CO2H) becomes the outer monolayer. At low current densities, l keV 3e+ ISS showed no detectable amount of gold on the surface, indicating the gold film was completely covered by the OMA. XPS signals acquired from the OMA showed carbon, oxygen, sulfur, gold, and a trace of silicon. When using ISS at higher current densities to sputter the OMA, the same elements were detected. The presence of silicon at the Au/OMA interface is attributed to silicon diffusion from the substrate through 20 nm of gold at 22°C. Some potential uses of ISS for studying well-characterized OMAs are also suggested. The primary purpose of this work is to use the surface-monolayer sensitive ISS technique on a well-characterized OMA on gold to confirm conclusions reached in prior work about the coverage of gold films by the OMA. ISS of self-assembled MUA on gold has not been previously reported, and our results have provided additional interesting information.
The limits of food safety testing: A case study of Escherichia coli testing of beef trim

Beef trim, the primary component of ground beef, is tested by both the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) and meat packers for Escherichia coli O157:H7 under a zero tolerance standard. We compare and contrast the process control and filtering roles of this testing on costs and food safety outcomes. Both of these roles of testing have been alternatively emphasized in recent legislative proposals and policy statements on beef trim testing. In the process control role, test design – including the decisions to increase sample sizes, re-test lots, and change tolerance thresholds – only affects the cost of implementing a targeted food safety standard, but does not directly affect health outcomes. In contrast, in the filtering role, test design influences the likelihood of errors and directly affects health outcomes. Neither role eliminates all risk from this pathogen. More broadly, we discuss the incentives food producers face to increase their frequency of testing and improve food safety processes in response to positive test findings as the process control role emphasizes.
Reinnervation of the rat levator ani muscle after neonatal denervation.

After axonal injury on postnatal day 14 (P14), but not P21, motoneurons in the spinal nucleus of the bulbocavernosus (SNB) do not display their normal response to circulating testosterone levels. This could result from a permanent disruption of communication between motoneurons and their testosterone-sensitive target muscles. We assessed the extent of reinnervation of one of these target muscles, the levator ani (LA) muscle, 5 months after the pudendal nerve was cut either on P14 or P21. The number of motoneurons innervating the LA in control and nerve cut animals was determined using retrograde labeling procedures. Functional recovery of the LA muscle was determined via the testing of its in situ contractile properties. Compared to control muscles, reinnervated LA muscles were smaller, had fewer muscle fibers, generated a lower maximum tetanic tension, and were more fatigable. In spite of the fact that fewer motoneurons reinnervated the LA muscle after nerve cut on P14 than on P21, there were no differences in the weight or contractile properties of the LA muscle between these two groups. These data suggest that motoneurons that survived injury on P14 innervated more muscle fibers than normal and exhibited a similar ability to functionally reinnervate the target muscle as those motoneurons that survived injury on P21. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Neurobiol, 2005
Comparison of interreader reproducibility of the prostate imaging reporting and data system and likert scales for evaluation of multiparametric prostate MRI.

OBJECTIVE. The objective of our study was to compare interreader reproducibility of the recently proposed “Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System,” or “PI-RADS,” scale incorporating fixed criteria and a standard Likert scale based on overall impression for prostate cancer localization using multiparametric MRI. MATERIALS AND METHODS. Fifty-five patients who underwent a 3-T prostate MRI examination using a pelvic phased-array coil and incorporating T2-weighted imaging, diffusion-weighted imaging, and dynamic contrast-enhanced imaging were included in the study. Three radiologists (6, 4, and 1 year of experience) independently scored 18 regions (12 in the peripheral zone [PZ] and six in the transition zone [TZ]) using PI-RADS (range, 3–15) and Likert (range, 1–5) scales, which were based on fixed criteria and overall impression, respectively. Interreader reproducibility was evaluated using the concordance correlation coefficient (CCC), which assesses exact agreement between scores (minimal, < 0.2; poor,...
A grey literature review of special events for promoting cancer screenings

Background: Cancer remains the second leading cause of mortality in the United States. Special events such as health fairs, screening days or cultural festivals are employed often for community education about cancer screening. A previous systematic review of the published literature was conducted in 2012-2013. The purpose of this study was to conduct a grey literature component of special events that promote breast, cervical and colorectal cancer screening in the U.S.
Photoinduced Membrane Damage of E. coli and S. aureus by the Photosensitizer-Antimicrobial Peptide Conjugate Eosin-(KLAKLAK)2

Background/Objectives Upon irradiation with visible light, the photosensitizer-peptide conjugate eosin-(KLAKLAK)2 kills a broad spectrum of bacteria without damaging human cells. Eosin-(KLAKLAK)2 therefore represents an interesting lead compound for the treatment of local infection by photodynamic bacterial inactivation. The mechanisms of cellular killing by eosin-(KLAKLAK)2, however, remain unclear and this lack of knowledge hampers the development of optimized therapeutic agents. Herein, we investigate the localization of eosin-(KLAKLAK)2 in bacteria prior to light treatment and examine the molecular basis for the photodynamic activity of this conjugate. Methodology/Principal Findings By employing photooxidation of 3,3-diaminobenzidine (DAB), (scanning) transmission electron microscopy ((S)TEM), and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) methodologies, eosin-(KLAKLAK)2 is visualized at the surface of E. coli and S. aureus prior to photodynamic irradiation. Subsequent irradiation leads to severe membrane damage. Consistent with these observations, eosin-(KLAKLAK)2 binds to liposomes of bacterial lipid composition and causes liposomal leakage upon irradiation. The eosin moiety of the conjugate mediates bacterial killing and lipid bilayer leakage by generating the reactive oxygen species singlet oxygen and superoxide. In contrast, the (KLAKLAK)2 moiety targets the photosensitizer to bacterial lipid bilayers. In addition, while (KLAKLAK)2 does not disrupt intact liposomes, the peptide accelerates the leakage of photo-oxidized liposomes. Conclusions/Significance Together, our results suggest that (KLAKLAK)2 promotes the binding of eosin Y to bacteria cell walls and lipid bilayers. Subsequent light irradiation results in membrane damage from the production of both Type I & II photodynamic products. Membrane damage by oxidation is then further aggravated by the (KLAKLAK)2 moiety and membrane lysis is accelerated by the peptide. These results therefore establish how photosensitizer and peptide act in synergy to achieve bacterial photo-inactivation. Learning how to exploit and optimize this synergy should lead to the development of future bacterial photoinactivation agents that are effective at low concentrations and at low light doses.
Study of neuropathologic changes in the striatum following 4, 8 and 12 months of treatment with fluphenazine in rats.

Persistent tardive dyskinesia is a serious side effect of long-term treatment with neuroleptics. Although striatal pathologic changes are believed to underlie this potentially irreversible iatrogenic syndrome, the nature of the neuroleptic-induced neuropathology is unclear. In the present study, we treated rats with either vehicle or fluphenazine decanoate (5 mg/kg, IM) every 2 weeks for 4, 8 or 12 months. Four to nine weeks after the last injection, the animals were sacrificed and the density of cells in the central part of the striatum was measured with a computerized image-analysis system. The control and experimental animals did not differ in body weight with 4 and 8 months of treatment, but the rats treated with fluphenazine for 12 months had significantly lower body weights than comparable controls. Four months of neuroleptic use produced no significant neuropathologic changes. The animals treated with fluphenazine for 8 months had a significantly lower density of the large neurons. In the 12-month-treated group, there was no significant difference between the control and experimental animals, probably because of a ‘floor effect’: the density of the large neurons was significantly lower in the 12-month-treated compared to the 8-month-treated control rats.
0.5 THz Performance of a Type-II DHBT With a Doping-Graded and Constant-Composition GaAsSb Base

A type-II GaAsSb Double Heterojunction Bipolar Transistor (DHBT) with an AlInP emitter, doping-graded GaAsSb base, and InP collector has been grown by molecular beam epitaxy. The 0.38 μm emitter devices have been fabricated by a triple-mesa wet etch process and demonstrated fT/fMAX=470/540 GHz at JC=5.1 mA/μm2 and VCB=0.65 V. This performance is comparable with composition-graded base devices with similar emitter width.
A 1024-bit bipolar RAM

The paper will discuss a low-power, high-performance static RAM using a compact inverted transistor flip-flop memory cell. Small chip size and conventional processing have been found to yield an economical device suited for mainframe storage applications.
Retrospective Examination of Failed Rate-Control Intervention

Individuals with motor-speech disorders are frequently admonished by clinicians to "slow down" to improve speech intelligibility and comprehensibility. Although most reports of rate-control therapy...
Characterization of Resistance to Soybean mosaic virus in Diverse Soybean Germplasm

Soybean mosaic virus (SMV) causes one of the most destructive viral diseases in soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] worldwide. Ninety-eight SMV isolates identified in the USA have been classified into seven strain groups (G1-G7). Three independent loci (Rsv1, Rsv3, and Rsv4) have been identified for SMV resistance. Multiple resistance alleles have been reported for the Rsv1 and Rsv3 locus. The objective of this research was to group diverse soybean genotypes on the basis of their differential reactions to SMV strains. SMV strains G1 and G7 were used to characterize the reactions of 212 soybean genotypes to SMV. Fifty-five genotypes were resistant to G1 but susceptible to G7, and virus was detected in G7-inoculated plants. Thirty-one genotypes were resistant to G1 but exhibited stem-tip necrosis following G7 inoculation. These 86 soybean genotypes presumably carry alleles at the Rsv1 locus. Thirty-seven genotypes were resistant to G1 and G7, and SMV was not detected by ELISA, indicating that they probably carry Rsv4, Rsv1-r, or Rsv1-h or a combination of two resistance genes Rsv1Rsv3, Rsv1Rsv4, or Rsv3Rsv4. Seven genotypes were susceptible to G1 but resistant to G7 and may carry alleles at the Rsv3 locus. PI 507389 and PI 61944 developed stem-tip necrosis after inoculation with G1 and a mosaic symptom when inoculated with G7, indicating that PI 61944 may carry the same Rsv1-n gene as PI 507389. Eighty soybean accessions developed mosaic symptoms when inoculated with G1 or G7 because of the lack of SMV resistance genes. The information from this research will be helpful in selecting SMV-resistant parents for crossing in a breeding program.
Variables Associated With Breastfeeding Duration

ABSTRACT Objective To identify the variables associated with breastfeeding duration. Data Sources The health science reference databases of CINAHL, PubMed, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Study Selection Meta-analyses, Cochrane reviews, literature reviews, and quantitative and qualitative studies published in English from 1998 through 2008. Data Extraction Data included all variables, both positive and negative, that were found to influence the outcome of breastfeeding duration. Data Synthesis Demographic factors that influence breastfeeding duration are race, age, marital status, education, socioeconomics, and Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children status. Biological variables consisted of insufficient milk supply, infant health problems, maternal obesity, and the physical challenges of breastfeeding, maternal smoking, parity, and method of delivery. Social variables included paid work, family support, and professional support. Maternal intention, interest, and confidence in breastfeeding were psychological variables. Conclusion Human lactation is a complex phenomena and the duration of breastfeeding is influenced by many demographic, physical, social, and psychological variables.
Nitric Oxide Levels and Nitric Oxide Synthase Expression in Uterine Samples from Mares Susceptible and Resistant to Persistent Breeding-induced Endometritis

Problem: Breeding-induced endometritis (BIE) in the mare is resolved by 36 hr after insemination in resistant mares. However, 10–15% susceptible broodmares fail to do so because of impaired uterine contractility between 7 and 19 hr after exposure to seminal or bacterial challenge, which reduces their fertility. Method of study: Nitric oxide (NO) in uterine secretions, and expression of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) in uterine biopsies were compared between susceptible and resistant groups 13 hr after insemination. Results: Susceptible mares had a higher NO in their uterine secretions and greater inducible NOS (iNOS) expression in their biopsies compared with resistant mares. Conclusions: The NO mediates smooth muscle relaxation, but its role in persistent BIE has not been determined. Our data suggests a possible role of NO, either directly or in a NO-associated pathway, in delayed uterine clearance.
Components of the Diet Associated with Child Adiposity: A Cross-Sectional Study

Objective: This study sought to determine which components of youths' diets were related to adiposity while controlling for potential often-neglected confounders such as moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and dietary reporting error. Secondary goals of this study were to determine the extent to which MVPA confounded the associations between diet and adiposity and whether associations between diet and adiposity would differ depending on reporting error.Methods: An ethnically diverse urban sample of 342 children aged 9–10 years and 323 adolescents aged 17–18 years were recruited for this cross-sectional study. Body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) were measured in the school; dietary assessment included three 24-hour recalls via telephone in the evenings, and MVPA assessment included 5 days of accelerometry. Over (n = 68), under (n = 250), or plausible (n = 347) dietary intake reporters were identified with the Huang calculation method. Linear regression assessed the relationship bet...
Pertechnetate-99m Localization in Man with Applications to Thyroid Scanning and the Study of Thyroid Physiology

Studies with laboratory animals have shown that pertechnetate ion is selectively concentrated in the thyroid gland, salivary glands and stomach, and selectively excluded from the cerebrospinal fluid almost to the same extent as inorganic iodide. Since the radionuclide technetium-99m gives extremely low energy dissipation in tissue, human studies were undertaken to evaluate pertechnetate-99m as a clinical tracer material. After intravenous administration, approximately 30% of the technetium-99m is excreted in the urine over the first 24 hr. The pertechnetate remaining in the body is evidently slowly metabolized, since the urinary excretion decreases markedly while fecal excretion increases progressively to a total of about 20% of the injected dose at 72 hr. In normal subjects, up to 2 % of the radioactivity from intravenously injected pertechnetate-99m is accumulated by the ion-concentrating mechanism of the thyroid at 1 hr, which corresponds closely to the accumulation of radioiodide in the gland blocked ...
Erectile Function Profiles in Men With Peyronie’s Disease

Purpose: In this study we investigated the erectile function status of men presenting with Peyronie’s disease.Materials and Methods: Demographics of patients regarding age, duration of PD, nature of deformity and comorbidities were compared between the patients with PD, with and without erectile dysfunction. Patients with erectile dysfunction underwent dynamic infusion cavernosometry/cavernosography. The hemodynamic profile of patients presenting with combined PD and ED were analyzed and compared between those with onset of ED before and after diagnosis of PD.Results: Of the 222 patients 78 had ED (35%) by self-report at presentation. The mean age of patients with PD and ED was 52 ± 22 years old. Hypertension (71.5%), hyperlipidemia (60.4%) and smoking (49.2%) were the leading comorbidities in the entire group. Statistically significant differences were found between the groups with and without ED for hypertension (p = 0.02) and cigarette smoking (p = 0.009). Of 222 patients 45 (20%) had ED that predated ...
Critical role for SV40 small-t antigen in human cell transformation

Defining the ability of simian virus 40 (SV40) to transform human cells has become of even greater importance with the increased understanding that this virus may play a role in some human malignancies. This report documents the requirement for viral small-t (ST) antigen in large-T (LT)-driven transformation of primary fibroblasts, a requirement that cannot be met by a well-known oncogene, c-Ha-ras (EJ-ras), which can cooperate with LT in rodent systems. The cellular gene telomerase is not essential for transformation, although transformed clones are not immortal without it. Similarly, an immortal mesothelial cell line has been developed using LT and telomerase. Immortalized mesothelial cells are morphologically normal, but can be transformed by introduction of ST, or ST + ras, but not by ras alone. It is likely that ST will be required along with LT for transformation of most human cell types.