cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Stereospecific binding of estrogens in the rat uterus

After administration of low levels of 6,7-H3-estradiol-17β to immature rats, the isotope was found to be incorporated in all subcellular fractions of the rat uterus, but predominantly in the nuclear-myofibrillar and soluble fractions. The incorporation of H3-estradiol could be inhibited by steroid and nonsteroid estrogens but not by nonestrogenic steroids. The inhibition appears to be competitive and suggests that the uterus contains a binding site which is stereospecific for estrogenic molecules. Bound H3-estradiol could be released from the nuclear-myofibrillar fraction by digestion with proteases or by incubation at extreme pH. The authors conclude that estradiol-17β is probably bound to a protein in the rat uterus which is stereospecific for estrogenic molecules.
A life cycle assessment of biopolymer production from material recovery facility residuals

Abstract This study applies life cycle assessment to a potential production pathway for polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), from the cellulosic fraction of organic residuals from material recovery facilities that otherwise are disposed of in a landfill. The cradle-to-gate production of PHB from this proposed pathway results in primary energy consumption and emissions of approximately 55–76 MJ/kg and 3.4–5.0 kg carbon dioxide-equivalent/kg, respectively. By comparison, producing PHB from a dedicated agricultural feedstock such as corn is estimated to require approximately twice the energy and greenhouse gas emissions as PHB from material recovery facility residuals. The study also considers an expanded modeling system boundary that assesses the consequences of diverting the organic fraction of material recovery facility residuals from landfills for biopolymer production. This diversion leads to reduced fugitive emissions of landfill gas but also reduced power generation from landfills that combust landfill gas. Including the changes to landfill gas generation leads to greater variability in carbon-intensity estimates for PHB: from as low as −1.7, to as high as 6.3 kg carbon dioxide-equivalent/kg PHB. Key contributors to this variability include the selection of an analytical time horizon for landfill gas generation, assumptions about landfill gas collection and combustion, and disposal options for PHB material. The expanded system boundary highlights current gaps in life cycle assessment methodology; in particular, the lack of clear conventions on analytical time horizon selection for processes with long-term consequences, such as landfill gas generation.
Apparatus for high-voltage thin-layer electrophoresis: application to amino acid analysis.

Abstract An apparatus for high-voltage thin-layer electrophoresis designed to operate at a load of 5.0 kV and 50 mA and characterized by simplicity of construction and operation is described. The analysis of the relative contribution and interdependence of the following factors as they affect the operation and resolution ability of this unit was made: current-voltage relationships, electrical field gradients, solvent transport, heat exchange, wick material, salts, buffer type, and concentration. The relative mobilities of the majority of amino acids in a pH 2.5 formic acid buffer and in a pH 10.2 ammonium buffer are sufficiently characteristic to provide a basis for tentative identification. The mobility of the amino acids exhibits a striking functional dependence on the ionic charge, molecular weight, type of hetero atoms in the side chain, and type and concentration of electrolytes employed. The resolution ability of this technique is equivalent or superior to that obtained by high-voltage paper electrophoresis.
siRNA-aptamer chimeras on nanoparticles: preserving targeting functionality for effective gene silencing.

SiRNA–aptamer chimeras are emerging as a highly promising approach for cell-type specific delivery of siRNA due to the outstanding targeting capability of aptamers and the compatibility of chimeras...
Stroke and Death Due to Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension

Spontaneous intracranial hypotension has become a well-recognized cause of headaches and a wide variety of other manifestations have been reported. Recently, several patients with asymptomatic spontaneous intracranial hypotension were reported. I now report two patients with spontaneous intracranial hypotension who developed multiple arterial strokes associated with death in one patient, illustrating the spectrum of disease severity in spontaneous intracranial hypotension. Medical records and radiologic imaging of the two patients were reviewed. Case 1. A 45-year-old man presented with an orthostatic headache. Neurologic examination was normal. MRI showed bilateral subdural fluid collections, brain sagging, and pachymeningeal enhancement. At lumbar puncture, the opening pressure was too low to record. He underwent two epidural blood patches with transient improvement of symptoms. His headaches progressed and a CT-myelogram showed a lower cervical CSF leak. Subsequently, periodic lethargy and confusion was noted and he then rapidly deteriorated. Examination showed coma (GCS: 4 [E1, M2, V1]), a fixed and dilated right pupil, and decerebrate posturing. Bilateral craniotomies were performed for the evacuation of chronic subdural hematomas. Immediate postoperative CT showed bilateral posterior cerebral artery infarcts and a recurrent right subdural hematoma, requiring re-evacuation. Postoperative examination was consistent with brain death and support was withdrawn. Case 2. A 42-year-old man presented with a non-positional headache. Neurologic examination was normal. CT showed bilateral acute on chronic subdural hematomas and effacement of the basilar cisterns. MRI showed brain sagging, bilateral subdural hematomas, and pachymeningeal enhancement. Bilateral craniotomies were performed and subdural hematomas were evacuated. Postoperatively, the patient became progressively lethargic (GCS: 8 [E2, M4, V2]) and variable degrees of pupillary asymmetry and quadriparesis were noted. MRI now also showed multiple areas of restricted diffusion in the pons and midbrain, consistent with multiple infarcts. CT showed worsening subdural fluid collections with midline shift and increased effacement of the basilar cisterns. Repeat bilateral craniotomies were performed for evacuation of the subdural fluid collections. Neurologic examination was then noted to be fluctuating but clearly improved when lying flat (GCS: 10T [E4, M6, VT]). CT-myelography demonstrated an extensive cervico-thoracic CSF leak. An epidural blood patch was performed. The patient made a good, but incomplete, recovery with residual quadriparesis and dysphagia. Arterial cerebral infarcts are rare, but potentially life-threatening complications of spontaneous intracranial hypotension. The strokes are due to downward displacement of the brain and can be precipitated by craniotomy for evacuation of associated subdural hematomas.
Effects of the Ca2+ Channel Antagonist Flunarizine on Visual Discrimination Learning

Abstract Recent studies report that the peripheral administration of Ca 2+ channel antagonists improves memory while central administration impairs memory in neurologically intact subjects. This study compares the effects of systemic versus central administration of the Ca 2+ channel antagonist flunarizine on visual discrimination learning. In Experiment 1, 60 five-day-old male chicks received an intraperitoneal injection of 0, 1, 10, or 25 mg/kg flunarizine. Each chick then received three post-treatment test sessions (+5 min, +30 min, and +24 h) consisting of 60 visual discrimination trials followed by 5 min of observation in an open field. Flunarizine produced a dose- and time-dependent facilitation of learning. Evaluation of open-field behaviors indicated that the dose of flunarizine required to increase spontaneous activity was 10 times higher than the dose required to facilitate visual discrimination learning. No other open-field behaviors were effected. In Experiment 2, 44 chicks received intracerbroventricular injections of 0, 100 n M , 100 μM , or 1 m M flunarizine followed by visual discrimination training as described in Experiment 1. Ventricular injection of flunarizine significantly increased the number of errors made during acquisition and retention trials. These data are consistent with earlier studies showing that systemic, but not central, administration of Ca 2+ channel antagonists facilitates learning.
Reaction of male mouse fighters to male castrates treated with testosterone propionate or oil

Pretrained male mouse fighters were tested against male castrates injected with testosterone propionate or oil. The fighters showed a greater amount of aggressive acts toward hormone-treated castrates than oil-treated ones. Results were discussed in terms of aggression-promoting pheromone mediated by androgen.
Fault detection of nonlinear dynamic processes using dynamic kernel principal component analysis

This paper proposes dynamic kernel principal components analysis (DKPCA) approach to bioprocesses monitoring. The basic idea of KPCA is to map the input data into a feature space first via a nonlinear mapping, and then perform a linear PCA in feature space F . The dynamic kernel matrix of DKPCA can capture the nonlinearity and the dynamics of bioprocesses. The proposed method was applied to the fault detection and diagnosis of a simulation benchmark of a biological treatment process. The simulation results clearly show the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
SS6. Predictors of Late Mortality Using Propensity Score Matched Comparison of Open and Endovascular Revascularization for Chronic Mesenteric Ischemia

gated in situ in 1, and the outcome was unknown for 1 patient. Among patients with grafts remaining in circulation (16), 2 expired, 3 others required thrombectomy for graft occlusion, and the other 11 patients had no reported adverse events. Among the 7 patients with graft removal/ligation, 3 required an amputation (2 major, 1 minor) and 2 different patients expired secondary to a pulmonary embolism. Conclusions: Analysis of the cases with implanted propaten grafts reveals that the HIT appears to be related to the systemic administration of heparin, as the platelet count normalized following discontinuation of the systemic heparin. Hence, based on current data, our recommendation would be to tailor treatment to individual patients. Functioning grafts in patients with or without thrombotic events and return of platelet count to normal values may not require grafts to be explanted.
Emergency Response Systems: Lessons from Utilities and Y2K

This paper describes Emergency Systems used by a utility during the Year 2000 rollover. The systems are analyzed with respect to the literature and lessons learned are discussed. Several factors are identified that impact the design and effectiveness of these systems. These factors are generalized to the overall design and management of current Emergency Systems.
Soviet Support for Egypt's Intervention in Yemen, 1962–1963

Drawing on documents and memoirs in Russian and Arabic, this article tells the unknown story of Soviet-Egyptian cooperation in the early phases of the Yemeni Civil War, a war that broke out while much of the world's attention was focused on the Cuban missile crisis and the war between India and Pakistan. Egypt's fateful decision to intervene in the conflict was dependent on substantial Soviet backing, which strengthened the relationship between the USSR and Gamal Abdel Nasser's government in Egypt. In response to a plea from Nasser, Nikita Khrushchev authorized the military transport branch of the Soviet Air Force to embark on a clandestine airlift operation ferrying Egyptian troops into Yemen to shore up the new government there.
Web service composition based on integrated substitution and adaptation

Traditional web service composition is often statically generated using knowledge available at the design time. However, in practice, composed web services must cope with changing environment at run time to maintain the usability of current composition plan. In this paper, we propose a solution for web service composition based on adaptation to avoid the problem of such invalidated running composition plans. In addition, we add another layer of process between adaptation and composition, called substitution, in the system architecture. The objective of the research is to show that adaptation and substitution complement each other, and their integration in the system provides best flexibility and efficiency for web service composition and execution during the design time and running time, respectively.
Enzymatic Manganese(II) Oxidation by Metabolically Dormant Spores of Diverse Bacillus Species

Bacterial spores are renowned for their longevity, ubiquity, and resistance to environmental insults, but virtually nothing is known regarding whether these metabolically dormant structures impact their surrounding chemical environments. In the present study, a number of spore-forming bacteria that produce dormant spores which enzymatically oxidize soluble Mn(II) to insoluble Mn(IV) oxides were isolated from coastal marine sediments. The highly charged and reactive surfaces of biogenic metal oxides dramatically influence the oxidation and sorption of both trace metals and organics in the environment. Prior to this study, the only known Mn(II)-oxidizing sporeformer was the marine Bacillus sp. strain SG-1, an extensively studied bacterium in which Mn(II) oxidation is believed to be catalyzed by a multicopper oxidase, MnxG. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA and mnxG sequences obtained from 15 different Mn(II)-oxidizing sporeformers (including SG-1) revealed extensive diversity within the genus Bacillus, with organisms falling into several distinct clusters and lineages. In addition, active Mn(II)-oxidizing proteins of various sizes, as observed in sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide electrophoresis gels, were recovered from the outer layers of purified dormant spores of the isolates. These are the first active Mn(II)-oxidizing enzymes identified in spores or gram-positive bacteria. Although extremely resistant to denaturation, the activities of these enzymes were inhibited by azide and o-phenanthroline, consistent with the involvement of multicopper oxidases. Overall, these studies suggest that the commonly held view that bacterial spores are merely inactive structures in the environment should be revised.
Comparison of Long-Pulsed Diode and Long-Pulsed Alexandrite Lasers for Hair Removal: A Long-Term Clinical and Histologic Study

background. Unwanted facial and body hair is a common problem, generating a high level of interest for treatment innovations. Advances in laser technology over the past several years has led to the development and distribution of numerous red and infrared lasers and light sources to address this issue. Despite the impressive clinical results that have been reported with the use of individual laser hair removal systems, long-term comparative studies have been scarce. objective. To compare the clinical and histologic efficacy, side effect profile, and long-term hair reduction of long-pulsed diode and long-pulsed alexandrite laser systems. methods. Twenty women with Fitzpatrick skin types I‐IV and dark terminal hair underwent three monthly laser-assisted hair removal sessions with a long-pulsed alexandrite laser (755 nm, 2-msec pulse, 10 mm spot) and a long-pulsed diode laser (800 nm, 12.5 msec or 25 msec, 9 mm spot). Axillary areas were randomly assigned to receive treatment using each laser system at either 25 J/cm 2 or 40 J/cm 2 . Follow-up manual hair counts and photographs of each area were obtained at each of the three treatment visits and at 1, 3, and 6 months after the final laser session. Histologic specimens were obtained at baseline, immediately after the initial laser treatment, and 1 and 6 months after the third treatment session. results. After each laser treatment, hair counts were successively reduced and few patients found it necessary to shave the sparsely regrown hair. Optimal clinical response was achieved 1 month after the second laser treatment, regardless of the laser system or fluence used. Six months after the third and final treatment, prolonged clinical hair reduction was observed with no significant differences between the laser systems and fluences used. Histologic tissue changes supported the clinical responses observed with evidence of initial follicular injury followed by slow follicular regeneration. Side effects, including treatment pain and vesiculation, were rare after treatment with either laser system, but were observed more frequently with the long-pulsed diode system at the higher fluence of 40 J/cm 2 . conclusion. Equivalent clinical and histologic responses were observed using a long-pulsed alexandrite and a long-pulsed diode laser for hair removal with minimal adverse sequelae. While long-term hair reduction can be obtained in most patients after a series of laser treatments, partial hair regrowth is typical within 6 months, suggesting the need for additional treatments to improve the rate of permanent hair removal.
Sensor node lifetime analysis: Models and tools

This article presents two lifetime models that describe two of the most common modes of operation of sensor nodes today, trigger-driven and duty-cycle driven. The models use a set of hardware parameters such as power consumption per task, state transition overheads, and communication cost to compute a node's average lifetime for a given event arrival rate. Through comparison of the two models and a case study from a real camera sensor node design we show how the models can be applied to drive architectural decisions, compute energy budgets and duty-cycles, and to preform side-by-side comparison of different platforms. Based on our models we present a MATLAB Wireless Sensor Node Platform Lifetime Prediction and Simulation Package (MATSNL). This demonstrates the use of the models using sample applications drawn from existing sensor node measurements.
Concurrent boost using forward multiple-segment planning and step-and-shoot delivery: a novel technique of breast-conserving radiation therapy

Results: Since June 2000, 40 patients have accrued to the trial: median age is 67.5 (range: 51 to 85). Median tumor diameter is 0.9 cm (range 0.2‐1.9). Treatment was well tolerated with only grade 1‐2 erythema in 12/40 (30%) patients. No other acute toxicity was detected. Planning and treatment in the prone position was performed in 36 of 40 patients. Four patients were planned and treated supine, one due to inability to lie comfortably in the prone position secondary to paraplegia, one secondary to Multiple Sclerosis and 2 due to the lateral position of the tumor bed. The predominant technique for treatment was a pair of parallel-opposed mini tangents. This arrangement assured good coverage given the constraints imposed by the PTV and its relationship to the table. We found heterogeneity of DVH based on the position and size of the original tumor bed and the size of the breast. For the entire group the volume of breast tissue included by the 95% isodose ranged between 13% to 45%. Eleven of the 40 (27.5%) patients received 50% of the prescription dose to 50% of the breast. Eighteen of the 40 (45%) patients treated had 25% of the breast tissue contained within the prescription isodose surface. In all patients volumes of heart and lung included in any of the treatment fields were clinically insignificant. Median length of follow-up of the 40 patients is 12 months (range: 1‐29 months) and all patients are NED. Conclusions: The current study demonstrates that in most cases it is possible to successfully plan and treat a quadrant of the breast without exceeding 50% of the dose to 50% of the breast volume. Prone positioning was often the best approach in treating the breast tissue completely from beneath the table, however often portions of the PTV were superior to the table. Alterations in the table design could improve the current dosimetric findings. This approach appears to be feasible with only mild acute side effects. Longer follow-up to assess efficacy and cosmesis is required.
Effect of Age and Protein Restriction on the Clearance and Secretion of Growth Hormone in the Domestic Fowl

Abstract Metabolic clearance rates (MCR) and secretion rates for growth hormone (GH) were determined in young (6-wk-old) chicks and adults (1 yr old) as well as in chicks fed low protein diets for 2 wk. Birds were either conscious or anesthetized during these determinations in the latter study. Age-related differences in plasma concentrations of GH reflect greater secretion of GH in younger chicks (3.5-fold increase). The MCR was reduced by 35% in chicks compared with adults, but when expressed per unit metabolic body weight, was higher in the young chickens. The MCR in protein-restricted chicks was 28% lower than in that of controls. However, when the MCR was calculated on a metabolic body weight basis, protein-restricted and control chicks did not differ in MCR. Elevated plasma concentrations of GH in unanesthetized, protein-restricted chicks were due to greater GH secretion (2.4-fold) of these chicks compared with secretions of chicks fed control diets. Basal secretions of GH, determined in the anesthetized chicks, did not differ between dietary treatments. These results indicate that secretion of GH but not clearance was affected by protein restriction in conscious birds.
Development of Condition and Length-Categorization Standards for Saugeye

ABSTRACT Weight-length data for 32 (N=3,371) saugeye (walleye Stizostedion vitreum x sauger Stizostedion canadense hybrids) populations from eight states were used to develop a standard weight (Ws) equation. We used the regression-line-percentile technique, which provides a 75th-percentile standard, to develop the equation. The proposed Ws equation is log10 Ws(g) = −5.692 + 3.266 log10TL(mm), and the English equivalent is log10 Ws(lb) = −3.760 + 3.266 log10TL(in). The saugeye Ws equation is valid for fish ≥ 170 mm. The proposed Ws equation was used to calculate relative weight (Wr) values for individual fish from each population to test for length-related biases. A significant relationship between total length and Wr was observed in 18 of the 32 populations. Ten populations had negative slopes while eight had positive slopes. There was no significant difference in the occurrence of positive and negative slopes (X 2=0.22, P≥0.50); therefore, no length-related biases were evident for the populations used in...
Multichannel Distribution Meter: A Veritable Solution in Power Distribution and Theft Prevention in Congested Environments

Power theft in partitioned commercial apartments, especially in the form of unpaid bills due to disputes, is a major challenge to revenue recovery in the power sector. This paper presents a multi-channel power distribution metering solution that serves to resolve disputes among users in partitioned apartments, and between the power distribution company and the end users of electricity. Partitioned apartments in commercial buildings particularly in congested environments shares energy supply meters among several users. This often leads to disputes and results to power theft in the form of unpaid bills and meter tampering. This paper described how power from a single supply meter can be adequately shared among a number of users with dispute arbitration. Each user’s channel is fed, monitored and controlled from a central unit which calculate and display energy usage, per unit cost and amount in cash consumed per channel. Compliant/non-compliant channel are connected/disconnected through a remote wireless access. It is envisaged that the use of this method for electricity distribution in commercial apartments, will greatly reduce power theft and increase revenue generation for the power industry. It will also eliminate disputes and possible litigations for the power industry and among users. http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/njt.v34i4.25
Activity Level and Graft Type as Risk Factors for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Graft Failure A Case-Control Study

BackgroundAnterior cruciate ligament (ACL) graft failure is an uncommon but devastating event after reconstruction, and risk factors for graft failure are not well understood.HypothesisReturning to a high activity level after ACL reconstruction and use of an allograft are risk factors for ACL graft failure.Study DesignCase-control study; Level of evidence, 3.MethodsTwenty-one patients with ACL graft failure were identified over a 2-year period. Forty-two age- and sex-matched controls were identified over the same period. A 1:2 matched case-control design was used to evaluate activity level after reconstruction and graft type as risk factors for ACL graft failure. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine odds ratios for activity level after reconstruction and for graft type among cases and controls. Association (interaction) between activity level after reconstruction and graft type was evaluated comparing stratum-specific odds ratios.ResultsUnivariate logistic regression models showed an increas...
Ethics In The Hospitality Industry: A Management Control System Perspective

Hospitality managers may assume that unless under control, ethics in their operations are out of control. This article proposes a management control system for ethics.
The Role of Minor Parties in Political Competition: Lessons from Ghana’s 2012 Elections:

The study of minor parties has largely focused on well-established democracies, even though these political organizations play significant roles in new and emerging democracies. With Ghana as a cas...
Fabrication of superhydrophobic surfaces from mixtures of aluminum distearate and fatty acids via intermediate organogel formation

Superhydrophobic surfaces were obtained easily from the mixtures of aluminum distearate (AlDS) and typical saturated fatty acids with long alkyl chains by a casting method. In contrast to a mediocre water contact angle of 109 ± 1° for the surface obtained from only AlDS, the mixture of AlDS and stearic acid (SA) gave a superhydrophobic surface having the contact angle of 164 ± 2° and the sliding angle of 3 ± 1° at the SA/AlDS weight ratio of 12. A homogeneous surface was not available from only SA on a macroscopic scale. To be superhydrophobic, the surface needs to take a hierarchical structure, like a table coral which consists of several tens of micrometer-size primary structure of widely branched SA crystals. In this study, the hierarchical structures were obtained by crystallizing fatty acids in the organogel composed of AlDS and a solvent, to avoid the formation of needle-like or plate-like bulky crystals as usually seen in the recrystallization of fatty acids.
Individual health counselling and education: emerging directions from current theory, research, and practice.

Abstract Some recent developments related to individual health counselling and education are presented. Developments in theories of compliance are described. Leventhal's model of self-regulation has some features that warrant further examination for both research and practice. Developments in behavioral diagnosis or educational assessments indicate that without such an analysis, health-care providers are more likely to use “shotgun” approaches rather than individually tailored approaches to health counselling and education. Health counselling strategies are also described. The art of counselling is becoming more of a science, and applications in the health field are accelerating rapidly, thus creating a need among health-care providers to become more knowledgeable about health-decision counselling methods. These developments suggest that greater importance needs to be given to the individual in health counselling and education and that the support for doing so can be found in some of the current developments in theory, research, and practice and in the techniques themselves. The movement toward greater concern for individual differences and for greater emphasis on cognitive psychological theory has been supported by developments in assessment techniques and in instructional technology. Although the social health model of care, with its emphasis on prevention, health promotion, and self-care and with its community action orientations, will cointinue to be of interest, there will continue to be a need for new approaches that will work within the framework of the existing health-care system. Individual health counselling and education is one of those important opportunities
Prenatal ethanol exposure: Effects on androgen and nonandrogen dependent behaviors and on gonadal development in male rats

Prenatal exposure to alcohol may impair gonadal and behavioral development in male rats, possibly via reduction of perinatal androgenization. We examined locomotor activity on postnatal day 18 (PND 18), which is not influenced by perinatal androgens and juvenile play and testicular development (testes weight), which are dependent on perinatal androgen exposure, in rats whose dams consumed ethanol during pregnancy. Male offspring of pair-fed and lab chow-fed dams served as controls. Despite reduced anogenital distance at birth, indicating compromised perinatal androgenization, fetal ethanol-exposed males did not exhibit demasculinization of play behavior. Hyperactivity in fetal ethanol-exposed males indicated that the treatment regimen was sufficient to produce behavioral deficits. Testes weight was reduced in both ethanol-exposed and pair-fed offspring, indicating that nutritional deficits associated with maternal ethanol intake may impair normal gonadal development in male rats. The findings suggest that fetal ethanol exposure may influence gonadal development but not necessarily affect a gonadal hormone-dependent behavior.
CdSe Sensitized ZnO nanowire/polymer based p-i-n Heterojunction Solar Cell

We report a novel hybrid p-i-n heterojunction solar cell consisting of an undoped CdSe quantum dot film sandwiched between electrodeposited n-type ZnO nanowires on a compact ZnO thin film/FTO and a spin-coated hole-conducting layer. Microscopic studies show the conversion of CdSe quantum dots into conformal and continuous polycrystalline thin film coatings on ZnO nanowires upon annealing in CdCl2/ambient air. The morphology change of the CdSe quantum dot layers then provided excellent charge transfer between the absorber layer and the contiguous layers. The quantum-dot-sensitized ZnO nanostructured solar cells exhibited short-circuit current densities ranging from 5 to 10 mA/cm2 and open-circuit voltages of 0.4–0.6 V when illuminated with an 85 mW/cm2 quartz-halogen spectrum. External quantum efficiencies as high as 55–60% were also achieved.
Evaluation of the Lipid Interference for Siemens BN ProSpec Cystatin C Assay Using Pediatric Samples

Endogenous interferents (lipids, hemoglobin and bilirubin) are a common cause of pre-analytical laboratory errors. We evaluated the effect of lipemia on Siemens cystatin C assay using pediatric samples. Lipemic samples were prepared by adding various concentrations of triglycerides into low and high cystatin C sample pools. Cystatin C concentrations were then measured on Siemens BN ProSpec analyzer and change of the analyte concentrations was determined. Low and high cystatin C sample pools were not affected by additions of lower lipid concentrations (150, 500 and 750 mg/dL), while the negative bias of <10% was seen with additions of higher lipid concentrations (1000 and 1500 mg/dL). Our results suggest that the BN ProSpec assay is a good alternative for cystatin C measurements in our pediatric population with no major interference from lipemia.
A monument to suffering : 1 Thessalonians 2:14-6, dangerous memory, and Christian identity

This article examines 1 Thessalonians 2:14-6 as a site of collective Christian memory. Rather than approaching the text as a repository of Paul's memories and theology, the author approaches the text as monument and juxtaposes the text to three monuments (two ancient and one modern) in order to explore how the text organizes the reality of those who recognize it as somehow historically and/or affectively meaningful. Given that this text has proven dangerous as a site of the highly durable and widely legible "fact" that "the Jews killed Jesus," the article draws on studies of public monuments to trace out how the (re)invention and contestation of public memories are rhetorical-political practices that animate partisan versions of the past to (re)orientate communities in the present and thus shape their possible futures.
MYCELIAL INTERACTION ZONES AMONG SINGLE ASCOSPORE ISOLATES OF MONILINIA FRUCTICOLA

Thind and Keitt (5) reported that when colonies of Monilinia fructicola (Wint.) Honey [Sclerotinia fructicola (Wint.) Rehm.] originating from ascospores of the same ascus grew together on potato-dextrose agar, light to dark, single or double lines formed at the margins where colonies met. No lines were reported between colonies of single ascospore isolates arising from the mitotic division during ascospore development or between subcultures of the same single ascospore isolate. Thind and Keitt (5) paired mycelium of 20 distinct single ascospore isolates from five asci and found that lines formed between all colonies. If mycelial interaction zones (barrages) occur between colonies of any pair of ascospore isolates and all other isolates, then we can use this interaction to tentatively identify isolates released in an orchard and follow their progress. If Thind's and Keitt's finding can be extrapolated to all isolates of M. fructicola, any isolate from the orchard not forming an interaction with subcultures of the ascospore pair may be a clone of the released isolate. Our study was conducted to determine if mycelial interactions consistently occur among single ascospore isolates of M. fructicola. A preliminary laboratory study using single conidial isolates of M. fructicola was conducted to determine the media best suited for the development of zones of interaction. The media tested were freshly prepared potato-dextrose agar (FPDA), FPDA acidified with lactic acid (AFPDA), Difco PDA, Difco PDA acidified with lactic acid (Difco APDA), Difco Czapek's agar, Difco malt agar, Difco corn meal agar, V-8 juice agar, and oatmeal agar (OMA). Ten single-spore conidial isolates of M. fructicola were obtained from diseased peach fruit from an orchard in Lockeford, California. The ten isolates were paired on each media by placing 4 mm disks of one isolate on adjacent corners of a 3 cm x 3 cm square and two disks of the other isolate on the remaining corners. The plates were incubated for 10 da at 20 + 2 C in a dark cabinet, under 24 h fluorescent light, and in intermittent light on a laboratory bench. Mycelial interaction zones formed on OMA under all three light regimes where colonies of different isolates met, but not among colonies of the same isolates. Interaction zones on OMA were darker on plates incubated in the dark or under intermittent light than plates incubated under 24 h fluorescent light. Interactions were inconsistent on FPDA, AFPDA, Difco PDA and Difco APDA in the dark or in intermittent light and on Difco PDA and Difco APDA under 24 h fluorescent light. On FPDA and AFPDA under 24 h fluorescent light, interaction zones were consistent but the lines were faint. No obvious interaction zones occurred on other media. Seven ascocarps were collected from an orchard in Lockeford (San Joaquin
Observations on Herpotrichia Nigra and Associated Species

Several years ago while attempting to work out the identity of Herpotrichia nigra Hartig and Neopeckia Coulteri (Peck) Sacc., the writer was surprised to find the ascospores of a third species on Picea which was at first thought to be an undescribed species of Herpotrichia. The spores of this species were fusiform, long and narrower than those of Herpotrichia nzigra and, while usually 5-septate, were often 6-septate and occasionally even 7-septate, while those of Herpotrichia nigra were broad, blunt and never more than 3-septate so far as observed. This strange species was first detected while studying Ellis & Everhart's Fungi Columbiani 1737, a specimen of Herpotrichia nigra which was erroneously distributed under the name of Lasiosphaeria Coulteri. The spores of this species were again observed while examining a specimen of Herpotrichia nigra on Picea Engelmanni sent from Colorado by Bethel, July 7, I914. After a careful study it was found that these fusiform spores were not the spores of a Herpotrichia as at first suspected but were those of a Mytilidion which has been repeatedly found on conifers associated with Herpotrichia nigra. The genus Mytilidion belongs to the Hysteriales and the perithecia of the plants of this genus are laterally compressed and closely resemble a miniature clam or other bivalve, opening by a slit across the top of the perithecium and very different from the subglobose perithecia of Herpotrichia. The perithecia of the Mytilidion are, however, so intimately associated with those of the Herpotrichia that their real characters may be easily overlooked and when removed together, the spores of the Mytilidion may be mistaken for the mature spores of the Herpotrichia. If, however, the perithecia are removed and studied individually, it will be found that the fusiform spores are always obtained from the hysteriform perithecia while the subglobose perithecia contain the 3-septate spores which are characteristic of Herpotrichia nigra.
Assessing adult exposure to community violence: a review of definitions and measures

OBJECTIVE: Although experiences of community violence are linked with negative outcomes for adults and children, few standardized measures assessing community violence exist, and available measures lack consistency concerning the definition of community violence. Further, most measures currently utilized to assess adult exposure to community violence were designed for use with children and adolescents. To address these identified concerns and make recommendations for future research, this article reviews contemporary definitions of community violence, identifies the outcomes of exposure to community violence for adults, and evaluates measures of exposure to community violence with published psychometric data employing adult samples. METHOD: A systematic review of the literature was conducted to identify studies that (1) included a self-report of community violence exposure, (2) included primarily adult respondents, and (3) reported psychometric data. RESULTS: Seventeen studies met the inclusion criteria. Measures employed in these studies were reviewed and basic psychometric properties discussed. Notably, the Survey of Exposure to Community Violence was the most commonly used measure among these studies. CONCLUSIONS: Although multiple measures demonstrated limited but acceptable psychometric performance in select studies, few in-depth psychometric analyses exist for measures of adult exposure to community violence. Also, it is difficult to compare studies due to variations in definitions of community violence and multiple versions of each measure. Recommendations for future research include provision of explicit definitions of community violence and reporting psychometric data for measures. Language: en
P90 Towards a protocol for the management of very severe chronic lung disease

Background While corticosteroids appear effective in reducing respiratory support requirements of babies with very severe chronic lung disease of prematurity (CLD), controversy remains regarding the most appropriate route, timing, preparation and dosage. Using Delphi methodology, consensus was reached involving 4-weekly pulses of methylprednisolone for 3 days at 500 mg/m 2 in ventilator-dependent, or close to ventilation, babies in diffuse lung disease of childhood (Cunningham S., et al . Am J Respir Crit Care Med 189;2014:A4664). Use of hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin also reached consensus. Aims and objectives To describe the features of those babies who received methylprednisolone, hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin (“consensus treatment”) for severe CLD compared to those who did not in order to inform the drafting of a protocol. Methods A prospective database detailing care of babies with severe CLD referred to the CLD service at Nottingham Children’s Hospital Jan 2009–Dec 2014 was used. Results 147 children were referred to the service; 4 babies received consensus treatment. Those receiving consensus treatment were ventilated for longer 39(sd 4.6) versus 8(sd 16.8) days (p Conclusions Babies with very severe CLD were successfully treated with consensus treatment. A change in practice toward discharge at higher oxygen delivery rates in such babies was safe. Further experience will refine the objective criteria for considering consensus treatment and would inform the design of a future randomised controlled trial.
Computer-based laboratory information systems.

Unique problems are encountered in the assessment of computer-based laboratory information systems. Attempts to evaluate these systems on a cost basis as well as on a qualitative basis have revealed the pit-falls of various assessment techniques. Although a number of methods currently promote objective evaluation, there is still a heavy reliance on subjective judgment, especially of the assessors themselves.
15.1 Challenges of Marketing and Economic Development: Contemporary Issues

Alternative trade, fair trade, and cooperative trade are all terms for an exchange of goods based on principles of economic justice, especially for the poor and powerless in the less developed countries. Numerous organizations, called alternative trade organizations, import farm products and handcrafts from these Third World nations and market them in the (over) developed countries.
[Analysis of pulsed-field gel electrophoresis molecular subtyping of Shigella strains in Shenzhen].

Objective To analyze the genetic relations of Shigella isolated from Shenzhen in 2001-2006 and develop primary molecular subtyping surveillance network of Shigella. Methods Chromosomal DNAs from 55 isolated in agarose were digested with the restriction enzyme Xba Ⅰ , and then were analyzed by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis. Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) patterns were clustered using BioNumerics software. Results All 41 distinctive PFGE patterns were identified among 55 strains. 32 strains belonged to one cluster. Differences were observed in other strains. Conclusion Both genetic-related clones and non-related clones of Shigella existed in Shenzhen. The development of PFGE molecular subtyping surveillance network would contribute to the active surveillance, outbreak investigation and source tracking for Shigellosis. Key words: Shigella; Electrophoresis,gel,pulsed-field; Bacterial typing techniques
Gut microbiota directs PPARγ-driven reprogramming of the liver circadian clock by nutritional challenge.

Abstract The liver circadian clock is reprogrammed by nutritional challenge through the rewiring of specific transcriptional pathways. As the gut microbiota is tightly connected to host metabolism, whose coordination is governed by the circadian clock, we explored whether gut microbes influence circadian homeostasis and how they distally control the peripheral clock in the liver. Using fecal transplant procedures we reveal that, in response to high‐fat diet, the gut microbiota drives PPARγ‐mediated activation of newly oscillatory transcriptional programs in the liver. Moreover, antibiotics treatment prevents PPARγ‐driven transcription in the liver, underscoring the essential role of gut microbes in clock reprogramming and hepatic circadian homeostasis. Thus, a specific molecular signature characterizes the influence of the gut microbiome in the liver, leading to the transcriptional rewiring of hepatic metabolism.
School Issues Facing Runaway and Homeless Youth

This chapter discusses school problems facing young people who run away from home or become homeless. In this chapter, school failure, expulsion, and other adverse school outcomes facing homeless and runaway young people are discussed. This chapter evaluates factors that increase the risk of adverse school outcomes such as school absences, school failure, suspensions, and expulsion. This chapter analyzes why youth are at risk for having disruptive, behavioral problems in school, performing poorly, skipping school, failing school, being suspended or expelled from school, dropping out of school, and running away from home because they suffer from abuse and trauma and have learning disorders such as attention-deficit, hyperactivity disorder, conduct problems, and other related behavioral and mental health problems. In this chapter, the prevalence of school problems such as truancy, school detention, and school suspension and expulsion are presented. This chapter also discusses the federal McKinney–Vento Homeless Assistance Act role in providing federal funds for homeless shelter programs in the USA to make sure that homeless young people get access to education.
The fabrication of DNA nanostructures and their applications in bionanotechnology

D acid (DNA), as you may very well know, is the carrier of generic information in living cells, which can replicate itself through Watson-Crick base paring. However, over the past three decades, researchers in the emerging field of DNA nanotechnology have been using the DNA as structural nanomaterials, based on its unique molecular recognition properties and structural features, to build addressable artificial nanostructures in one, two and three dimensions. These selfassembled nanostructures have been used to precisely organize functional components into deliberately designed patterns which have a wide application potential in material science, biomedical, electronic and environmental fields. The development of DNA nanotechnology and its potential application will be covered. Then this talk will discuss the design and construction of several DNA nanostructures, including self-assembly of DNA six-helix nanotubes from two half-tube components; Using DNA origami template to organize semiconducting quantum dots (QDs) and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and discussing the methods to integrate “top-down” nanofabrication technique with “bottom-up” self-assembly.
Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SNB) in pregnancy-associated breast cancer (PABC).

1117 Background: SNB in PABC is not often pursued due to concerns for potential fetal harm. There are only limited data available regarding the safety and efficacy of SNB in patients (pts) with PAB...
Evaluation of flash dried yeast as a nutritional supplement in plant‐based practical diets for Pacific white shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei

Growth and digestibility trials were conducted to evaluate the use of flash dried yeast (FDY) as a supplement in practical shrimp feeds. The six-week growth trial evaluated the effects of FDY supplementation (0, 10, 20, 40 and 60 g kg–1) in the plant-based practical diet on the performances and proximate compositions of juvenile Pacific white shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei. Final biomass, final mean weight, per cent weight gain (WG), feed conversion (FCR) and protein retention efficiency (PRE) of Pacific white shrimp were not significantly influenced when FDY was added up to 40 g kg–1 of the diet. However, 60 g kg–1 FDY supplementation significantly reduced growth, feed utilization and protein retention. Supplementation of FDY in the practical diets of Pacific white shrimp did not affect protein, moisture, lipid, crude fibre, and ash content of whole shrimp body. Apparent digestibility coefficients of energy, protein, and amino acid (AA) for FDY were determined using chromic oxide as an inert marker and the 70:30 replacement technique. The energy and protein digestibility of FDY were 38.20% and 53.47%, respectively, which were significantly lower than fishmeal (FM) and soybean meal (SBM) that were run at the same time. Most amino acid digestibility of FDY was lowest among the three ingredients tested. Results of this work indicated that energy, protein and amino acid digestibility of FDY are lower compared to SBM and FM, and high levels supplementation (≥60 g kg–1) of FDY can cause negative effects to the growth response of Pacific white shrimp. Based on these results, further research regarding the effects of the low level inclusion of FDY in practical diets on immune responses of Pacific white shrimp is warranted.