cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
New insights into the interaction of cytoplasmic dynein with the actin-related protein, Arp1.

ONG the most rewarding discoveries in modern cell biology are those that demonstrate convergence of results obtained using biochemical and genetic approaches. Scientists with a biochemical bent use in vitro assays that mimic complicated physiological processes to define participating molecules. Others exploit the power of genetics to rapidly identify and characterize genes that, when mutated, wreak havoc on normal cell physiology; the corresponding proteins are considered possible players in the process in question. When these two divergent experimental courses identify homologous proteins, even the most skeptical among us begin to believe that we have gained some insight into the protein's function. In recent years, the field of membrane traffic has benefitted enormously from the combined application of biochemical and genetic approaches, as proteins highlighted by in vitro studies have been found to have homologs in the sec proteins in the budding yeast, S. cerevisiae. The cell cycle is another area in which genetics and biochemistry have elegantly collided, as evidenced by the enhancement of our understanding of the M-phasepromoting factor cascade by yeast cdc mutants. As we continue to dissect and reconstitute some of the more complicated events that occur within cells it is certain that many more such intersections will occur. A series of recent papers, including two that appear in this issue (Clark and Meyer, 1994; Muhua et al., 1994; Plamann et ai., 1994) report the discovery of a novel genes encoding the actin-related protein, Arpl, which was previously characterized using an in vitro, biochemical assay. It is now apparent that Arpl participates in a number of distinct microtubule-based motility events powered by cytoplasmic dynein. Cytoplasmic dynein is a ubiquitous, soluble microtubuleactivated ATPase that transports objects toward microtubule minus ends. A wide variety of intracellular functions have been ascribed to the enzyme. Its subcellular localization and behavior in vitro suggest that cytoplasmic dynein drives minus end-directed movement of membranous organeUes in the processes of retrograde transport in axons, basal-toapical transcytosis in polarized epithelia, and traffic in the endocytic pathway of many cells (Schroer and Sheetz, 1991a; Walker and Sheetz, 1993). Dynein may also facilitate cytoskeletal rearrangements by causing movement of non-
Hyperpipecolic acidemia associated with hepatomegaly, mental retardation, optic nerve dysplasia and progressive neurological disease.

A male infant with hyperpipecolic acidemia is described. To our knowledge this is only the second report of this disorder. As with the previous case, our patient's course was characterized by persistent hepatomegaly, severe mental retardation, progressive loss of developmental milestones and diminished visual acuity associated with nystagmus, abnormal discs and retinal changes. Death occurred at 2 years of age, following a progressive loss of neurological function. Pipecolic acid was repeatedly present in the serum at a concentration of 4–5 mg %. Trace amounts of this compound were also detected in the urine. In addition, an adaption of the method of Piez et al. (1956) for the direct quantitation of pipecolic acid in serum was evaluated and found to be very useful for the biochemical diagnosis of this disorder.
SnO2 films prepared by activated reactive evaporation

Abstract Transparent conducting films of SnO2 doped with antimony were prepared on glass substrates by activated reactive evaporation for the first time. The sheet resistance and optical transmittance in the wavelength range 0.4–1.6 μm were studied as functions of various deposition parameters such as the ambient pressure of an 85%Ar15%O2 mixture, the substrate temperature and the antimony doping concentration in the SnSb alloys. The sheet resistance and optical transmittance showed a strong dependence on the above-mentioned deposition parameters. The best results were obtained for a 90at.%Sn10at.%Sb alloy evaporated in 85%Ar15%O2 at a partial pressure of about 5 × 10−4 Torr with a substrate temperature about 350°C. These films, with a sheet resistance of 10 μ/□ had an average transmittance of 95% over the wavelength range 0.4–1.8 μm. The film thickness was about 0.25 μm. Thicker films (about 0.5 μm) had a sheet resistance as low as 1.5 ω/□ with an average transmittance 85% in the wavelength range 0.4–1.6 μm.
Complete Nucleotide Sequence of the Genomic RNA of Sindbis Virus

The entire nucleotide sequence of the genomic RNA of the type virus of the alphavirus genus, Sindbis virus, has been determined. The genome is 11,703 nucleotides in length, exclusive of the 5' cap and the 3'-terminal poly(A) tract. After the 5'-terminal cap there are 59 nucleotides of 5' nontranslated nucleic acid followed by a reading frame of 7539 nucleotides that encodes the nonstructural polypeptides and which is open except for a single opal termination codon. Following 48 untranslated bases located in the junction region which separates the nonstructural and structural protein coding sequences, there is an open reading frame 3735 nucleotides long that encodes the structural proteins. Finally, the 3' untranslated region is 322 nucleotides long. The nonstructural proteins are translated from the genomic RNA as two polyprotein precursors. The first is 1896 amino acids in length and terminates at an opal codon at position 1897. This polyprotein is processed to produce three polypeptides called nsP1, nsP2, and nsP3. Sites of post-translational cleavage to produce these three proteins have been tentatively located using available N-terminal amino acid sequence data. In both cases cleavage probably occurs between the two alanine residues in the sequence Gly-Ala-Ala. The fourth nonstructural protein, nsP4, is produced when readthrough of the opal codon produces a second polyprotein precursor of length 2513 amino acids, which is also cleaved posttranslationally. The structural proteins are translated from a subgenomic message which begins at nucleotide 7598, is 4106 nucleotides in length (exclusive of the poly(A) tract), and is coterminal with the 3' end of the genomic RNA. The structural proteins are also translated as a polyprotein precursor which is cleaved to produce a nucleocapsid protein and two integral membrane glycoproteins as well as two small peptides not present in the mature virion. A replication strategy for Sindbis virus based upon the complete nucleotide sequence, as well as prior data, is presented.
On the performance of subset selection rules under normality

Abstract From k normal populations N(θ1,σ12),…,N(θk,σk2), where the means θ 1 ,…,θ k ∈ R are unknown, and the variances σ12,…,σk2>0 are known, independent random samples of sizes n1,…,nk, respectively, are drawn. Based on these observations, a non-empty subset of these k populations of preferably small size has to be selected, which contains the population with the largest mean with a probability of at least P ∗ at every parameter configuration. Several subset selection rules which have been proposed in the literature are compared with Bayes selection rules for normal priors under two natural type of loss functions. Two new subset selection rules are considered.
Development of improved tRNAs for in vitro biosynthesis of proteins containing unnatural amino acids

Abstract Background: Chemically aminoacylated suppressor tRNAs have previously been used in vitro to generate mutant proteins in which unnatural amino acids are incorporated site-specifically. Although the existing methodology often provides adequate quantities of mutant proteins, the suppression efficiencies of some unnatural amino acids are not high enough to yield useful amounts of protein. In an effort to make this useful mutagenesis strategy more general, we report here the results of a search to find alternative tRNAs as a way of increasing suppression efficiencies. Results: Three suppressor tRNAs have been generated by runoff transcription and their ability to deliver unnatural amino acids site-specifically into proteins has been assessed in an E. coli -derived in vitro transcription/translation system. Analysis of their ability to insert both polar and nonpolar residues in response to an amber codon in two proteins suggests that an E. coli tRNA Asn -derived suppressor offers a significant improvement in suppression efficiency over other previously used tRNAs. Conclusions: Use of an E. coli tRNA Asn -derived suppressor may provide substantially higher yields of proteins containing unnatural amino acids, in addition to offering a broader tolerance for polar amino acids. A comparison of suppressor tRNAs derived from tRNA Asn , tRNA Gln or tRNA Asp with that derived from tRNA Phe supports emerging evidence that the identity of an amino acid may be important in message recognition.
The fair use doctrine: History, application, and implications for (new media) writing teachers

Writing teachers have always had to contend with plagiarism. However, the technology of the Internet and the thorny issues of copyright law complicate how we teach legal and ethical use of others’ materials in the networked classroom. Our pedagogy and curriculum choices and our students’ writing practices are shaped by a legal infrastructure that includes the fair use doctrine. Our understanding and knowledge of the fair use doctrine should become second nature to us. Critical awareness of fair use, the four-factor test, and how to conduct appropriate analyses when using others’ materials must become part of the everyday digital writing/new media classroom curriculum. To this end, the author summarizes the salient points of law and practice of fair use and demonstrates, in small ways, how the fair use doctrine can inform the teaching of writing in digital contexts. As teachers, researchers, and experts of writing, the discourse of fair use must be considered in addition to the discourse of plagiarism.
Synaptic relationships in the plexiform layers of carp retina.

The synaptic contacts made by carp retinal neurons were studied with electron microscopic techniques. Three kinds of contacts are described: (1) a conventional synapse in which an accumulation of agranular vesicles is found on the presynaptic side along with membrane densification of both pre- and postsynaptic elements; (2) a ribbon synapse in which a presynaptic ribbon surrounded by a halo of agranular vesicles faces two postsynaptic elements; and (3) close apposition of plasma membranes without any vesicle accumulation or membrane densification.
Obesity and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Since its original description in 1935 by Stein and Leventhal, obesity has been recognized as a common feature of the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). In the United States, some studies report that the prevalence of overweight and obesity in women with PCOS is as high as 80%. Outside the U.S., the prevalence of obesity in affected women is lower, although it has increased over time, with studies reporting rates as low as 20%. Differences in the diagnostic criteria for PCOS account for some of this difference in prevalence rates. However, even when comparable diagnostic criteria are applied, both the prevalence and severity of obesity are lower in women with PCOS outside the U.S. This observation suggests that environmental factors, such as lifestyle, contribute to development of obesity in PCOS. The consistent association between PCOS and obesity suggests a biologic basis for this observation. Moreover, obesity exacerbates many of the reproductive and metabolic abnormalities associated with PCOS. This review explores the available data on the mechanisms of this association.
Comprehensive quality assurance for the delivery of intensity modulated radiotherapy with a multileaf collimator used in the dynamic mode.

The delivery of intensity modulated radiation therapy(IMRT) using dynamic multileaf collimation (DMLC) accounts for about 40% of all treatments on eight multileaf collimator (MLC)-equipped linacs currently at the central and satellite facilities of the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC). These numbers have been steadily growing for the past 6 years. Treatment with IMRT has been used for a variety of cancers, including tumors of the prostate, head and neck, breast, paraspinal regions, and brain. To ensure that patients are treated in an accurate, efficient, and safe manner, we have developed a comprehensive QA program including mechanical quality assurance, which monitors known potential weaknesses in the MLC device itself, and verification of patient-specific treatments, to confirm the reliability of new software and to identify errors introduced through human interaction with individual patient’s plans. This paper presents the reasoning, methodology, and results for mechanical, dosimetric, and electronic tests that are conducted at MSKCC.
An Experimental Investigation of a Two-Dimensional, Self-Similar, Supersonic Turbulent Mixing Layer with Zero Pressure Gradient

Abstract : The effect of compressibility on the mixing layer was investigated at Mach number 2.47. Pitot pressure, static pressure and hot-wire surveys were made to investigate the mean flow and the fluctuation quantities. Similarities between supersonic and incompressible mixing layers are observed in normalized velocity profile, normalized power spectral density distribution and convection velocity distribution. Spreading rate, normalized shear stress and velocity fluctuation were found to be appreciably smaller than the respective incompressible results; e.g., the momentum thickness growth rates are 0.0073 and 0.035 for supersonic and incompressible flows, respectively. The difference between free and wall-bounded mixing layers is discussed. Development of turbulence structure of mixing layer with increasing Reynolds number was also investigated.
Occlusion size aware multi-viewpoint images generation from 2D plus depth images

This paper proposes a new scheme to synthesize multi-view images from 2D plus depth (2D+D) images. A 2D+D image is combined from one single image with its corresponding depth map. The 2D+D image format is one of the most widely used representations of 3D images. To synthesize a new viewpoint image, we perform procedures of calculating the disparity first, and then filling disocclusion regions. For the first step, we calculate the disparity of new images by a geometric model which defines the geometric relation between the scene and synthesized viewpoints. After obtaining new images, we have to fill disocclusion regions. To fill the regions, several methods have been proposed, e.g. (1) linear interpolation of foreground and background image color, background color extrapolation; (2) mirroring of background color information; (3) preprocessing of depth information. To fill the regions with better quality, we classify regions into two different types. Bi-cubic interpolation is then applied while the size of absence region is small. If the region is large, we fill the proper texture by searching in the neighboring area. The described processes improve the visual quality of synthesized multi-view images. Finally this paper presents the comparison between the proposed method and traditional methods.
Cardiac size and function in pregnancy-induced hypertension

The physiologic cardiac enlargement characteristic of normal pregnancy could result in important left ventricular dysfunction in the presence of elevated blood pressure. Using M-mode echocardiography, we measured left ventricular dimensions, fractional shortening, and radius-to-wall thickness ratio in 23 patients who had a diagnosis of pregnancy-induced hypertension at rest and during isometric exercise. Seventeen subjects with normal pregnancies were similarly studied and served as controls. The average gestation of patients with pregnancy-induced hypertension was 38 ± 2 weeks, and that of control subjects was 37 ± 1 weeks. The average age was 25 ± 5 years for patients with pregnancy-induced hypertension, and that for control subjects was 29 ± 4 years. The patients with pregnancy-induced hypertension did not show the normal eccentric cardiac enlargement observed during pregnancy; the average radius-to-wall thickness ratio was reduced in patients with pregnancy-induced hypertension. Fractional shortening, a reflection of ventricular performance, was maintained both at rest and during exercise in the hypertensive group. One patient, who did not show a reduced radius-to-wall thickness ratio, had marked reduction of left ventricular performance in the presence of severe pregnancy-induced hypertension. Left ventricular performance in most subjects with pregnancy-induced hypertension is normal. Preservation of left ventricular performance despite increased arterial pressure may be related to the absence of eccentric gestational cardiac enlargement.
Design for coincidence: incorporating real world artifacts in location based games

As location based games move players out of the house and onto the streets the experience of game play radically changes. Game designers have the opportunity to incorporate artifacts, elements and events that might naturally occur in the real world into the game play so that a particular place becomes more meaningful.This paper explores the relevance of place and the idea of "design for coincidence". Design for coincidence is illustrated through case studies and a number of example games that show how this approach has been effective in location based games.
Analysis of variance concepts and computations

The analysis of variance (ANOVA) compares means among three or more groups of observations defined by a categorical variable. Any discussion of ANOVA involves intertwined considerations of (1) scientifically informed study design, (2) computational methods, and (3) statistical theory. Our understanding advances at roughly at the same rate in all three aspects. The earliest ANOVA methods were developed in 1925 and required independent Gaussian observations with common variance. The years 1925–1950 saw the flowering of complex variations for evaluating two or more grouping variables (factors) and the possibility of interaction among factors. An interaction occurs whenever the effect of one factor differs across levels of the other. Requiring equal numbers of observations in each group allowed developing sums-of-squares formulas practical for electromechanical calculators. The widespread adoption of digital electronic computers during 1950–1975 stimulated a shift to regression-based calculations allowing unequal group sizes and the use of multivariate methods. During 1975–2000, statisticians generalized ANOVA based on mixed models to allow missing data. The more general methods require iterative solutions of nonlinear systems of equations. The dominance of the mixed-model approach creates vulnerabilities to computing and modeling errors in practice. Basic numerical analysis concerns (variable scaling, location shift, and error accumulation) can interact badly with some types of coding dummy variables and covariance model selection. Future directions include automation of access to computation and assumption diagnostics. The proliferation of data with large numbers of variables or observations presents challenges at all three interfaces of scientific modeling, computing, and statistical theory. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website.
Turbidimetric and morphological studies of type I collagen fibre self assembly in vitro and the influence of fibronectin

Abstract Collagen undergoes several stages of self assembly including turbidimetric lag, growth and plateau steps. The later stages of type I collagen self assembly were studied by turbidity—time measurements, low angle laser light scattering and by determination of the birefringence retardation of collagen fibres formed in vitro. These studies were conducted in the presence and absence of fibronectin to evaluate the effect of fibronectin on the kinetics and extent of type I collagen fibrillogenesis. The results of these studies indicate that the collagen fibres observed at the end of the lag phase appear to be identical to fibres seen in the growth phase of turbidity—time curves based on fibre diameter and birefringence retardation measurements. Birefringence retardation measurements suggest that the diffracting unit may be the collagen fibril and that the volume fraction of fibrils in fibres is about 0.95 using a model developed for a series of parallel ellipsoids. Morphological observations suggest that the distribution of fibre diameters formed in vitro during the growth phase is narrow and appears to be independent of time with only the mass of collagen in fibres increasing during the growth phase. During the growth phase, layers of parallel fibres are formed with alternating layers appearing almost orthogonal. In the presence of fibronectin the mechanism of fibre formation appeared unchanged. It was concluded that fibronectin appeared to modify the kinetics of self assembly by preventing collisions between collagen molecules.
Primacy and recency effects due to momentum in back-propagation

Summary form only given, as follows. Primacy and recency effects are analyzed mathematically for backpropagation algorithms (generalized delta rule), which use momentum. The results show that when the conventional momentum parameter is used, a primary effect occurs: the current values of the weights are biased toward the first presentations in a sequence of training patterns. To produce a recency effect, a different momentum parameter is introduced. The current values of the weights depend more on recent presentations of training patterns under this recency effect. A method is provided for selecting a momentum parameter based on the effect desired: primacy or recency. >
Population Distribution and Economic Development in Africa: The Need for Urbanization Policies

Many countries in Africa are facing severe development problems because of high rates of population growth, stagnant or declining agricultural productivity, and increasing migration of the rural poor to large cities. Most demographic studies of Africa ignore problems arising from the spatial distribution of population and public allocation of investment. Strategic planning of the location of development investments in ways that will prevent or reduce excessive concentration of population and productive activities in large primary cities is becoming increasingly important for many African governments. In this article it is argued that the excessive growth of primary cities in predominantly rural countries can be detrimental to their economic recovery. Policies encouraging more widespread distribution of population in secondary cities and towns and policies promoting investment in physical infrastructure, marketing, small-scale manufacturing, and agroprocessing in secondary cities and towns can provide a stronger base for both rural and urban development in many African countries in the future.
Evaluation of Electromagnetic Methods for Rapid Mapping of Salt‐Water Interfaces in Coastal Aquifers

In coastal areas salt-water intrusion represents a significant threat to water quality in coastal aquifer systems. The electromagnetic method evaluated in this study proved to be rapid, very inexpensive, and it yields results which agree well with geologic and geochemical surveys using direct sampling. The instrument reads directly in conductivity units and the depth of investigation is constant for a particular spacing and orientation of the receiver and transmitter coils. Data can be obtained and interpreted by personnel with little technical training. Data interpretation normally involves producing terrain conductivity contour maps, but quantitative solutions can be obtained where the geoelectric section can be reasonably approximated by a two-layer section. Some problems were experienced with interference. However, interference sources usually were very localized and could be avoided. This study, conducted in two areas of Florida, demonstrates that the EM conductivity method is very useful for rapid, inexpensive ground-water surveys where the objective is to locate zones of conductive pore fluids at depths less than 30–40 meters. Although interpretation is indirect and qualitative, neither data aquisition nor interpretation require special training. This characteristic of the EM method makes it very suitable for use by agencies where highly-trained technical personnel are not available.
Insulin Augmentation of 17α-Hydroxylase Activity Is Mediated by Phosphatidyl Inositol 3-Kinase But Not Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase-1/2 in Human Ovarian Theca Cells

Polycystic ovary syndrome, characterized by hyperandrogenism and chronic anovulation, is frequently associated with insulin resistance. Ample evidence implicates a role for insulin in the genesis of ovarian hyperandrogenism. The objective of this study was to begin to define the intracellular signaling pathway(s) that mediates insulin regulation of 17alpha-hydroxylase activity in human ovarian theca cells. Third-passage theca cells, isolated from the ovaries of regularly cycling premenopausal women, were used. Insulin alone had no effect on 17alpha-hydroxylase activity or CYP17 mRNA expression but required costimulation with forskolin. At the insulin concentration used (10 ng/ml), a neutralizing antibody to the insulin receptor (but not an antibody to the type I IGF receptor) blocked the insulin stimulation of 17alpha-hydroxylase activity, demonstrating that the effects were mediated by the insulin receptor. Insulin stimulated both phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3-kinase) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase-1/2 (MAPK) pathways. Specific inhibition of MAPK kinase (MEK) with PD98059 or I0126 did not decrease the 17alpha-hydroxylase activity stimulated by forskolin or forskolin plus insulin. In contrast, the PI3-kinase inhibitor LY294002 completely blocked insulin-stimulated 17alpha-hydroxylase activity. Our data demonstrate that insulin stimulates PI3-kinase and extracellular signal-regulated kinase-1/2 activities in human theca cells, but only PI3-kinase mediates the insulin augmentation of forskolin-stimulated 17alpha-hydroxylase activity.
Multistage Planar Thermoelectric Microcoolers

Many types of microsystems and microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) devices exhibit improved performance characteristics when operated below room temperature. However, designers rarely pair such devices with integrated cooling solutions because they add complexity to the system and often have power consumption which far exceeds that of the microsystem itself. We report the design, fabrication, and testing of both one- and six-stage thermoelectric (TE) microcoolers that target MEMS applications through optimization for low-power operation. Both coolers use thin-film Bi2Te3 and Sb2Te3 as the n-and p-type TE materials, respectively, and operate in a planar configuration. The six-stage cooler has demonstrated a ΔT = 22.3 °C at a power consumption of 24.8 mW, while the one-stage cooler has demonstrated a ΔT = 17.9 °C at a lower power consumption of 12.4 mW.
Climate and reproductive seasonality in two free-ranging island populations of rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatto)

We gathered data over a 3-year period (1988–1990) on two free-ranging, island populations of rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta)to test hypotheses concerning birth seasonal asynchrony and the relationship between climate and reproductive seasonality. Rhesus macaques from Kashmir, India, were translocated to Key Lois in 1973 and from Key Lois to Raccoon Key in 1978. Both sites are low-lying mangrove islands in the Florida Keys. Floral diversity and abundance are greater on Raccoon Key than on Key Lois. Average maximal and minimal temperatures per month did not vary significantly between Raccoon Key and Key Lois over the 3-year period. Average minimal temperatures per month on Key Lois, but not Raccoon Key, varied significantly between years. There were no significant variations in either the amount or the dates of rainfall over the 3-year period for the study area. A combined total of 1524 births was recorded for Raccoon Key (N = 879) and Key Lois (N =645). The birth season on Raccoon Key began 6 weeks earlier than on Key Lois. Births were associated with warmer, rainier months on both islands. Conceptions were associated with cooler, drier months at both study sites. No significant correlations were found between the date of the onset of the summer rains and either median conception or median birth dates on Raccoon Key or Key Lois. Our results do not substantiate the hypothesis that the onset of rainfall, within the temporal period set by photoperiod, regulates seasonal reproduction in rhesus macaques. We suggest that reproductive seasonality in the study populations may be influenced by a variety of factors.
In Reply to “A Call for Better Methodology for Global Mental Health Educational Program Reviews”

To the Editor: We thank Drs. Marienfeld and Rohrbaugh [1] for highlighting the unique aspects of the Yale Global Mental Health Program. We agree that the web-based search strategy we used has important limitations. It is possible that a study design with multiple, potentially redundant streams of data collection (e.g., similar to that which has been employed to measure HIV treatment adherence [2]) might have greater sensitivity for detecting the range of opportunities available to psychiatry residents interested in global mental health. Such a study might include a web-based search protocol, a survey of program directors, and a survey of graduating residents, with prespecified algorithms to consistently reconcile the conflicting data we might get from different sources in a single program. To our knowledge, such a study design, although appealing, has not yet been attempted.
Negative narrow bipolar lightning needs critical cloud height

High within towering thunderclouds, a distinct form of intracloud lightning, known as “narrow bipolar pulse” discharges, can occur. Like other forms of lightning, narrow bipolar events (NBE) can be either negative or positive discharges. These events are known for their high-powered, short-distance electrical discharges that produce strong emissions of very high frequency radio waves. Previous research has found that since NBEs take place at relatively high altitudes, it is possible to detect them remotely using satellites. To be able to use the detection of narrow bipolar events to measure cloud behavior or storm dynamics, however, requires a better understanding of the relationship between cloud properties and NBEs.
Immune and physiological responses of turkeys with green-liver osteomyelitis complex

A study of field turkeys was undertaken in order to determine the involvement of relative immunological differences in the etiology of turkey osteomyelitis complex (TOC). Lame and normal turkeys were sampled from commercial flocks just prior to processing in two separate trials. After testing for functions of both humoral and cellular immunity, the turkeys were necropsied and examined for lesions of TOC. There were significantly higher relative spleen and over weights and significantly lower body weights and relative bursal weights in birds with TOC. The birds with TOC had lower response to phytohemagglutinin-P in both in vivo and in vitro tests as well as lower circulating lymphocyte counts and higher monocyte, heterophil, and total white blood cell counts. There was a significantly higher antibody response to sheep red blood cells in turkeys with TOC, whereas antibody response to Salmonella pullorum antigen was not different. There were no significant differences in the percentages of mononuclear cells or heterophils able to phagocytize bacteria or latex particles, or kill bacteria; however, the heterophils from turkeys with TOC lesions did phagocytize significantly fewer latex particles per cell than did those of the healthy turkeys. Total serum protein, uric acid, and blood urea nitrogen levels were higher in birds with TOC, whereas hemoglobin, iron, alkaline phosphatase, and gamma-glutamyl-transferase levels were lower. Although many of the differences in birds with TOC could be caused by the normal host reaction to infection, further study may reveal innate differences that contribute to susceptibility to TOC.
HISTOLOGICAL AND PHYSICAL CHANGES IN CARROTS AS AFFECTED BY BLANCHING, COOKING, FREEZING, FREEZE DRYING AND COMPRESSION

SUMMARY— The effect of processing variables on the cell structure and physical characteristics of carrots were determined. The phloem portion of fresh carrots was subjected to one of the following treatments: blanching; cooking for 10 min; freezing at 0°F, −30°F or −320°F; freeze drying, compressing after freeze drying at approximately 1500 psi. Carrots at each treatment were tested for: (1) texture by means of the Ailo-Kramer Shear Press; (2) water holding capacity by centrifuging at 500, 1000, 1500, 2000 and 2500 rpm; (3) histological changes by microscope observation of the tissue structure. Results indicate that among all treatments, freezing temperature is the most critical factor affecting the cell structure of the carrots. Freezing at 0°F or −30°F results in considerable disruption of the cellular structure, whereas it was minimal at −320°F. Carrots frozen at −320°F showed firmer texture as well as higher water holding capacity than the rest. Significant correlation coefficient was established between the shear press values and percent weight loss measured by centrifugation. This suggests that the latter may be used as an objective test for measuring textural changes in processed carrots and perhaps other foods.
Cost analysis of laparoscopy versus laparotomy for early endometrial cancer.

Abstract Objective. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the cost associated with treatment of early stage endometrial cancer differs on the basis of the surgical approach. Methods. A retrospective analysis was performed on a series of women with presumed early stage endometrial cancer treated between 5/96 and 1/99 at a single institution. The patients were grouped according to the surgical approach utilized. The first group consisted of 19 patients who underwent laparoscopic assisted vaginal hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, and laparoscopic pelvic and paraaortic lymph node dissection. The second group consisted of 17 patients who underwent a total abdominal hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, and pelvic and paraaortic lymph node disection. The two groups were compared with a two-tailed Student t test. Variables analyzed included age, Quetelet index (QI), surgical stage, number of lymph nodes, surgical time, estimated blood loss, postoperative complications, number of days in the hospital, and costs. The cost analysis was divided into room and board, pharmacy, ancillary services, operating room equipment, operating room services, and anesthesia. Results. Both groups were similar in age, QI, and distribution of stage. The laparoscopic group required more OR time (237 vs 157 min, P P P P P Conclusion. Laparoscopic surgical management of early stage endometrial cancer is feasible with minimal morbidity. The cost savings of early hospital discharge is offset by longer surgical time and higher anesthetic costs. The total costs for each surgical approach are not statistically different. The presumed advantages of less pain, early resumption of normal activities, and overall improvement of quality of life await further investigation.
Patterns of diversity for fungal assemblages of biological soil crusts from the southwestern United States

Molecular methodologies were used to investigate fungal assemblages of biological soil crusts (BSCs) from arid lands in the southwestern United States. Fungal diversity of BSCs was assessed in a broad survey that included the Chihuahuan and Sonoran deserts as well as the Colorado Plateau. At selected sites samples were collected along kilometer-scale transects, and fungal community diversity and composition were assessed based on community rRNA gene fingerprinting using PCR-denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE). Individual phylotypes were characterized through band sequencing. The results indicate that a considerable diversity of fungi is present within crusted soils, with higher diversity being recovered from more successionally mature BSCs. The overwhelming majority of crust fungi belong to the Ascomycota, with the Pleosporales being widespread and frequently dominant. Beta diversity patterns of phylotypes putatively representing dominant members of BSC fungal communities suggest that these assemblages are specific to their respective geographic regions of origin.
Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic (PBPK) Modeling and Simulation Approaches: A Systematic Review of Published Models, Applications, and Model Verification

Modeling and simulation of drug disposition has emerged as an important tool in drug development, clinical study design and regulatory review, and the number of physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling related publications and regulatory submissions have risen dramatically in recent years. However, the extent of use of PBPK modeling by researchers, and the public availability of models has not been systematically evaluated. This review evaluates PBPK-related publications to 1) identify the common applications of PBPK modeling; 2) determine ways in which models are developed; 3) establish how model quality is assessed; and 4) provide a list of publically available PBPK models for sensitive P450 and transporter substrates as well as selective inhibitors and inducers. PubMed searches were conducted using the terms “PBPK” and “physiologically based pharmacokinetic model” to collect published models. Only papers on PBPK modeling of pharmaceutical agents in humans published in English between 2008 and May 2015 were reviewed. A total of 366 PBPK-related articles met the search criteria, with the number of articles published per year rising steadily. Published models were most commonly used for drug-drug interaction predictions (28%), followed by interindividual variability and general clinical pharmacokinetic predictions (23%), formulation or absorption modeling (12%), and predicting age-related changes in pharmacokinetics and disposition (10%). In total, 106 models of sensitive substrates, inhibitors, and inducers were identified. An in-depth analysis of the model development and verification revealed a lack of consistency in model development and quality assessment practices, demonstrating a need for development of best-practice guidelines.
Vibrio cholerae-Induced Cellular Responses of Polarized T84 Intestinal Epithelial Cells Are Dependent on Production of Cholera Toxin and the RTX Toxin

To study the utility of in vitro-polarized intestinal cell monolayers for modeling Vibrio cholerae-host cell interactions, we added live V. cholerae bacteria to the apical surfaces of polarized T84 cell monolayers and monitored changes in electrical properties. We found that both classical and El Tor strains produce cholera toxin after addition to the monolayer, but induction is most likely due to medium components rather than bacterium-cell interactions. We also found that the RTX toxin is produced by El Tor strains. This toxin caused a loss of the barrier function of the paracellular tight junction that was measured as a decrease in transepithelial resistance. This decrease occurred when bacteria were added to either the apical or basolateral surfaces, indicating that the RTX toxin receptor is expressed on both surfaces. These results are discussed with regard to the applicability of the polarized T84 cell monolayers as an in vitro model of host-pathogen interactions.
The Ocean Wave Height Variance Spectrum: Wavenumber Peak versus Frequency Peak

Many authors assume that the frequency peak and the wavenumber peak of an ocean wave height variance spectrum are related by the ocean wave dispersion relationship. This note shows that this is not true and that the true relationship depends on the shape of the spectrum, thereby introducing an element of randomness into the relationship.
Behaviors at the onset of stuttering

Abstract The purpose of this investigation was to identify speech and nonspeech behaviors associated with the stuttering of children close to the onset of their problem. Ten stuttering children (nine boys and one girl) were identified through a) parent interviews indicating that these children begun stuttering during the previous 12 months prior to data collection, and b) the presence of 3 or more stutterings per 100 words of conversational speech. Fourteen associated speech and nonspeech behaviors and speech dysfluency type were identified and quantified for 10 stutterings from each of the 10 subjects. The 14 associated behaviors and speech dysfluency type were further reduced to form three indices: a) Sound Prolongation Index, b) Nonspeech Behavior Index, and c) Behavioral Variety Index. Results indicated that all of the children exhibited speech and nonspeech behaviors in association with their stuttering. Additionally, chronological age did not significantly correlate with any of the three indices investigated. Findings are taken to suggest that the quantification of speech dysfluency type and the speech and nonspeech behaviors associated with stuttering are more sensitive than chronological age as indicators of the development of stuttering.
Three-item Direct Observation Screen (TIDOS) for autism spectrum disorder

We compared ratings on the Three-Item Direct Observation Screen test for autism spectrum disorders completed by pediatric residents with the Social Communication Questionnaire parent reports as an augmentative tool for improving autism spectrum disorder screening performance. We examined three groups of children (18-60 months) comparable in age (18-24 month, 24-36 month, 36-60 preschool subgroups) and gender distribution: n = 86 with Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed., text rev.) autism spectrum disorders; n = 76 with developmental delay without autism spectrum disorders; and n = 97 with typical development. The Three-Item Direct Observation Screen test included the following (a) Joint Attention, (b) Eye Contact, and (c) Responsiveness to Name. The parent Social Communication Questionnaire ratings had a sensitivity of .73 and specificity of .70 for diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders. The Three-Item Direct Observation Screen test item Joint Attention had a sensitivity of .82 and specificity of .90, Eye Contact had a sensitivity of .89 and specificity of .91, and Responsiveness to Name had a sensitivity of .67 and specificity of .87. In the Three-Item Direct Observation Screen test, having at least one of the three items positive had a sensitivity of .95 and specificity of .85. Age, diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder, and developmental level were important factors affecting sensitivity and specificity. The results indicate that augmentation of autism spectrum disorder screening by observational items completed by trained pediatric-oriented professionals can be a highly effective tool in improving screening performance. If supported by future population studies, the results suggest that primary care practitioners will be able to be trained to use this direct procedure to augment screening for autism spectrum disorders in the community.
Odor-specific effects on reentrainment following phase advances in the diurnal rodent, Octodon degus

Reentrainment following phase shifts of the light-dark (LD) cycle is accelerated in Octodon degus in the presence of olfactory social cues (i.e., odors) produced by conspecifics. However, not all o...
What Drives Compensation for China's CEOs?

The article considers the role of corporate vitality in shaping China's growth, focusing on the link between corporate financial performance and executive compensation. The author cites research by Michael Firth of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Peter Fung of Hong Kong Community College, and Oliver Rui of the Chinese University of Hong Kong. The researchers looked at Chinese corporate governance, including the role of the state in naming the dominant shareholder, which can be the state itself, state-owned entreprises that report to either the central government or to a local government, private Chinese shareholders, or foreign investors. The researchers found a range of correlations between dominant-shareholder type and executive pay, incentives, and corporate financial performance.
Cost Analysis of Periprocedural Imaging in Patients Undergoing Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation

Cardiovascular imaging is an important part of procedural planning and safety for catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF). However, the costs of imaging surrounding catheter ablation of AF have not been described. Medicare fee-for-service data were used to evaluate Medicare expenditures before, during, and after catheter ablation for AF from July 2007 to December 2009. Among 11,525 patients who underwent catheter ablation for AF, the mean overall expenditure on the day of the procedure was $14,455 (SD $7,441). The mean imaging expenditure in the periprocedural period, which included the 30 days before the catheter ablation and the day of the ablation itself, was $884 (SD $455). Periprocedural imaging expenditures varied by the imaging strategy used, ranging from a mean of $557 (SD $269) for patients with electroanatomic mapping only to $1,234 (SD $461) for patients with electroanatomic mapping, transesophageal echocardiogram, and computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. Mean patient-level imaging expenditures varied by provider (mean $872, SD $249). Periprocedural imaging expenditures also varied by patient risk, with mean expenditures of $862 (SD $444) for patients with a CHADS 2 score of ≥2 compared with $907 (SD $466) for CHADS 2 score 2 score.
Mortality and medicine: forms of silence and of speech

Silence can be harmful to patients, their loved ones, and doctors within the contexts of illness and bereavement. I draw from my experience with my son’s illness and death to discuss five forms of silence—the silence around the experience of critical illness; the silence between life and death; the silence of doctors; the silence of the dead, and the silence of the ill—and of speech that may emerge in response to these silences.