cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sequence-Specific Fidelity Alterations Associated with West Nile Virus Attenuation in Mosquitoes

High rates of error-prone replication result in the rapid accumulation of genetic diversity of RNA viruses. Recent studies suggest that mutation rates are selected for optimal viral fitness and that modest variations in replicase fidelity may be associated with viral attenuation. Arthropod-borne viruses (arboviruses) are unique in their requirement for host cycling and may necessitate substantial genetic and phenotypic plasticity. In order to more thoroughly investigate the correlates, mechanisms and consequences of arbovirus fidelity, we selected fidelity variants of West Nile virus (WNV; Flaviviridae, Flavivirus) utilizing selection in the presence of a mutagen. We identified two mutations in the WNV RNA-dependent RNA polymerase associated with increased fidelity, V793I and G806R, and a single mutation in the WNV methyltransferase, T248I, associated with decreased fidelity. Both deep-sequencing and in vitro biochemical assays confirmed strain-specific differences in both fidelity and mutational bias. WNV fidelity variants demonstrated host-specific alterations to replicative fitness in vitro, with modest attenuation in mosquito but not vertebrate cell culture. Experimental infections of colonized and field populations of Cx. quinquefaciatus demonstrated that WNV fidelity alterations are associated with a significantly impaired capacity to establish viable infections in mosquitoes. Taken together, these studies (i) demonstrate the importance of allosteric interactions in regulating mutation rates, (ii) establish that mutational spectra can be both sequence and strain-dependent, and (iii) display the profound phenotypic consequences associated with altered replication complex function of flaviviruses.
Interpretation of the basal metabolic rate of children of unusual body build.

The relative predictive value of six methods of reference frequently used to determine the BMR of children of unusual body build has been studied. The methods of reference based on the Child Research Council standards which were employed for this purpose were those for cal./hr./sq. m., cal./hr./kg. and cal./hr./cm., each referred to age, and cal./hr. referred to surface area, weight and height, respectively. An analysis was made of 558 determinations of basal metabolism obtained on 86 healthy children of the Child Research Council, of 946 basal metabolism tests on 793 children described in the literature and of 80 basal metabolism tests on 74 children observed by Gordon. The study included children between 2 and 16 years of age whose weight or height or both weight and height fell above the 90th percentile or below the 10th percentile of all the children of similar age on whom the Council standards had been established. The results of this analysis show that the methods of reference of cal./hr. referred to surface area and of cal./hr. referred to weight are reliable for the interpretation of BMR determinations on children of all six types of body build. This is also true of cal./hr./sq. m. referred to age except in the case of very small children or dwarfs for whom high BMR are found. These observations might well have been anticipated since height and weight and surface area increase with age in children, but weight and surface area give a better evaluation of body mass than does height. The methods of reference of cal./hr./kg. referred to age, cal./hr./cm. referred to age and cal/hr. referred to height are not so reliable, either individually or collectively, for routine clinical use as are the other three methods of reference. Nevertheless, the deviations in the BMR obtained by these less satisfactory methods of reference may be of considerable importance in understanding the problems of a child of unusual body build. The use of the proper methods of reference based on reliable standards will result in trustworthy BMR for children of unusual body build.
(R)‐ and (S)‐2,2′‐Bis(bis(3,5‐dimethylphenyl)phosphanyl)‐1,1′‐binaphthalene

[137219-86-4] C52H48P2 (MW 734.89) InChI = 1S/C52H48P2/c1-33-21-34(2)26-43(25-33)53(44-27-35(3)22-36(4)28-44)49-19-17-41-13-9-11-15-47(41)51(49)52-48-16-12-10-14-42(48)18-20-50(52)54(45-29-37(5)23-38(6)30-45)46-31-39(7)24-40(8)32-46/h9-32H,1-8H3 InChIKey = MXGXXBYVDMVJAO-UHFFFAOYSA-N [135139-00-3] C52H48P2 (MW 734.89) InChI = 1S/C52H48P2/c1-33-21-34(2)26-43(25-33)53(44-27-35(3)22-36(4)28-44)49-19-17-41-13-9-11-15-47(41)51(49)52-48-16-12-10-14-42(48)18-20-50(52)54(45-29-37(5)23-38(6)30-45)46-31-39(7)24-40(8)32-46/h9-32H,1-8H3 InChIKey = MXGXXBYVDMVJAO-UHFFFAOYSA-N (axial chiral diphosphine ligand for enantioselective transition metal catalysis, ruthenium catalysts for asymmetric hydrogenations, catalysts for asymmetric addition to alkenes and alkynes, asymmetric cycloadditions, asymmetric cycloisomerizations, and asymmetric fluorination) Alternative Names: xylBINAP, xyl-BINAP, xylyl-BINAP, m-xylyl-BINAP, 3,5-xylyl-BINAP, 3,5-diMe-BINAP, DM-BINAP, 1,1′-[(1S)-[1,1′-binaphthalene]-2,2′-diyl]bis[1,1-bis(3,5-dimethylphenyl)-phosphine. Physical Data: mp 286–288 °C; (c = 1.00, CHCl3) for (S)-xylBINAP 1-3 Solubility: no data available. Form Supplied in: white to pale yellow solid. Analysis of Reagent Purity: proof of purity is determined by proton, carbon, and phosphorus NMR, infrared spectrum, melting point, and optical rotation (polarimeter). The optical purity can be determined after oxidation to xylBINAPO by HPLC using a CHIRACEL OD column, eluting with 9:1 hexane/isopropanol (0.5 mL min−1): Rt = 8.3 min (R)-BINAPO, Rt = 11.2 min (S)-BINAPO.2 Preparative Methods: The original synthesis of enantioenriched xylBINAP is a multistep sequence beginning with addition of the bis-Grignard reagent prepared from racemic 2,2′-dibromo-1,1′-binaphthalene to bis(3,5-dimethylphenyl)phosphinyl chloride (prepared from the corresponding phosphonic acid). The resultant racemic xylBINAPO oxide is resolved with O,O′-dibenzoyl tartaric acid via multiple recrystallizations. After a salt break with sodium hydroxide, the enantioenriched xylBINAPO is deoxygenated with trichlorosilane and triethylamine in xylene at 130 °C.2 Enantiomerically enriched xylBINAP can also be prepared by nickel-catalyzed coupling of the corresponding enantioenriched binaphthy 2,2′-ditriflate with either bis(3,5-dimethylphenyl)phosphine, bis(3,5-dimethylphenyl)chlorophosphine, or bis(3,5-dimethylphenyl)bromophosphine and zinc metal after 2–3 days at 110 °C.4, 5 Purification: final purification by chromatography. Handling, Storage, and Precautions: air and moisture stable as the crystalline solid. Incompatible with oxidizing agents.6
Root temperature effects on 'Arkin' carambola (Averrhoa carambola L.) trees I. Leaf gas exchange and water relations

Abstract The effects of root temperatures on leaf gas exchange and water relations of 1-year-old ‘Arkin’ carambola (Averrhoa carambola L.) trees in containers were investigated in controlled root temperature chambers in a glasshouse. Average leaf xylem water potentials (Ψl) were more negative for trees grown at root temperatures of 5, 10 or 38 °C compared to those at root temperatures of 20 or 25 °C. Average net CO2 assimilation (A) was consistently greater for trees grown at root temperatures of 20 or 25 °C compared to all other treatments. There were no significant differences in transpiration (E) among all of the root temperature treatments. In contrast, stomatal conductance of CO2 (gs) was highest for trees exposed to root temperatures of 5 or 10 °C, intermediate for trees at root temperatures of 20 or 38 °C, and lowest for trees at a root temperature of 25 °C. Optimum root temperatures for carambola are greater than 10 °C but less than 38 °C, and likely between 20 and 25 °C. Reduced carambola tree growth that has been observed at low (5 and 10 °C) and high (38 °C) root temperatures appears to be, in part, the result of reduced A and water stress.
Control of RNA synthesis in Escherichia coli. I. Amino acid dependence of the synthesis of the substrates of RNA polymerase.

Abstract A study of the amino acid dependence of ribonucleoside triphosphate synthesis and its relationship to the amino acid dependence of RNA synthesis in Escherichia coli has led to the following findings: 1. (1) The conversion of UMP to UTP and CTP by plasmolyzed cells is partially amino acid-dependent in two unrelated stringent strains, but is amino acid-independent in a relaxed mutant derived from one of them. 2. (2) In whole cells of a stringent strain, the levels of UTP and CTP shrink abruptly upon exhaustion of a limiting supply of a required amino acid, at the same time as the rate of RNA synthesis is reduced. 3. (3) In whole cells of a stringent strain, the incorporation of 32 PO 4 into all four ribonucleoside triphosphates is amino acid-dependent; incorporation into ATP shows the most severe amino acid-dependence. 4. (4) The amino acid-dependence of ribonucleoside triphosphate generation in stringent strains cannot be an indirect consequence of the amino acid-dependence of RNA synthesis, because RNA synthesis can be inhibited in any of three different ways without inhibiting ribonucleoside triphosphate generation. RNA synthesis was inhibited at the RNA polymerase level with actinomycin D or proflavine without inhibiting the synthesis of UTP or CTP. RNA synthesis could also be prevented by uracil starvation without significant inhibition of ATP or GTP synthesis. We suggest that the RC control system responds to amino acid deficiency by limiting ribonucleoside triphosphate synthesis, which in turn makes RNA synthesis amino acid-dependent.
Internal Organization of the Firm

Management decisions about the boundary (size) of the firm, internal organization of the firm, and the internal systems for aligning incentives of all stakeholders of the firm are critical to enable the firm to create the most value given its resources and market opportunities. Internal organization defines who makes which decisions, who controls which information, and whose goals are or are not aligned with the objectives of the firm. Within any organizational structure there is a trade-off between the amount of information in each business unit and the need for coordinated decisions across units. As firms increase in scale, per unit costs decrease due to economies of scale and scope. On the other hand, as the firm grows in size multiple principal-agent problems arise which result in residual loss. Internal organization of firms falls into four basic structures: the Unitary functional structure (or U-form), the multidivisional structure (or the M-form), the matrix structure and the network structure. Keywords: transactions costs; principal-agent problem; free-rider problem; functional structure; multidivisional structure; matrix structure; network structure
Management engine using hierarchical role model: A new management platform for virtual networks

Network virtualization facilitates the carriers' introduction of new network services and infrastructure technologies with low CAPEX and OPEX. However, the virtual networks' dynamic and polymorphic features lead to a complex management plane. This paper proposes Role Model to represent network virtualization in a simple and unified way; we use it to design Management Engine, which can dynamically customize modularized management systems through simple and structured definition files. Finally, we develop a prototype and validate our proposals. We believe that Management Engine is a new management platform for virtual networks.
Assessment of vitamin A status by the deuterated-retinol-dilution technique and comparison with hepatic vitamin A concentration in Bangladeshi surgical patients

Hepatic stores of vitamin A were estimated in 31 Bangladeshi surgical patients (15 males and 16 females) by the deuterated-retinol-dilution (DRD) technique and by analysis of the vitamin A concentration of a liver biopsy specimen obtained during previously scheduled abdominal surgery. Patients ranged in age from 21 to 65 y and had an average body mass index (BMI: in kg/m2) of 17.7 +/- 3.4. They received 0.753 mumol [2H4]retinyl acetate/kg body wt orally 9-11 d before surgery. Hepatic vitamin A reserves were estimated according to Furr et al (Am J Clin Nutr 1989;49:713-6) by using a single plasma isotopic-ratio measurement (18-25 d postdose). Estimated mean hepatic vitamin A stores were similar by both techniques, 0.110 +/- 0.072 mmol (by DRD) compared with 0.100 +/- 0.067 mmol (by biopsy). Regression analysis was used to compare results of the DRD and biopsy techniques. A significant linear relation was found between the two techniques (r = 0.75, P < 0.0001), and the least-squares regression line was not significantly different from y = x (P = 0.09). The results indicate that the DRD technique provided a very good estimate of hepatic vitamin A reserves for this population. However, a wide prediction interval was observed for estimates of hepatic vitamin A reserves for individual subjects. Thus, further refinement of the prediction model is necessary to improve estimates of hepatic vitamin A reserves for individual subjects.
Wafer fabrication: 300mm wafer fabrication line simulation model

The importance of semiconductor wafer fabrication has been increasing steadily over the past decade. Wafer fabrication is the most technologically complex and capital intensive phase in semiconductor manufacturing. It involves the processing of wafers of silicon in order to build up layers and patterns of metal and wafer material. Many operations have to be performed in a clean room environment to prevent particulate contamination of wafers. Also, since the machines on which the wafers are processed are expensive, service contention is an important concern. All these factors underline the importance of seeking policies to design and operate them efficiently. We describe a simulation model of a planned 300mm wafer fabrication line that we are using to make strategic decisions related to the factory.
Automobile use, fuel economy and CO2 emissions in industrialized countries: Encouraging trends through 2008?

Abstract Car use and fuel economy are factors that determine oil demand and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Recent data on automobile utilization and fuel economy reveal surprising trends that point to changes in oil demand and CO2 emissions. New vehicle and on-road fleet fuel economy have risen in Europe and Japan since the mid 1990s, and in the US since 2003. Combined with a plateau in per capita vehicle use in all countries analyzed, these trends indicate that per capita fuel use and resultant tail-pipe CO2 emissions have stagnated or even declined. Fuel economy technology, while important, is not the only factor that explains changes in tested and on-road fuel economy, vehicle efficiency and transport emissions across countries. Vehicle size and performance choices by car producers and buyers, and driving distances have also played significant roles in total fuel consumption, and explain most of the differences among countries. Technology applied to new vehicles managed to drive down the fuel use per unit of horsepower or weight by 50%, yet most of the potential fuel savings were negated by overall increased power and weight, particularly in the US. Similarly, the promise of savings from dieselization of the fleet has revealed itself as a minor element of the overall improvement in new vehicle or on-road fuel economy. And the fact that diesels are driven so much more than gasoline cars, a difference that has increased since 1990, argues that those savings are minimal. This latter point is a reminder that car use, not just efficiency or fuel choice, is an important determinant of total fuel use and CO2 emissions. We speculate that if the upward spiral of car weight and power slows or even reverses (as has been observed in Europe and Japan) and the now mandatory standards in many countries have the intended effect that fuel use will remain flat or only grow weakly for some time. If real fuel prices of 2008, which rivaled their peaks of the early 1980s, fell back somewhat but still remain well above their early 2000 values. If the prices remain high, this, combined with the strengthened fuel economy standards, may finally lead to new patterns of car ownership, use and fuel economy. However, if fuel prices continue their own stagnation or even decline after the peaks of 2008 and car use starts upward, fuel use will increase again, albeit more slowly.
The spectra and light curves of two gamma-ray bursts

Observations made by the Hard X-ray and Low Energy Gamma-Ray Experiment on board HEAO-1 of the spectra and light curves of two gamma-ray bursts for which localized arrival directions will become available are presented. The burst of October 20, 1977 is found to exhibit a fluence of 0.000031 + or - 0.000005 erg/sq cm over the energy range 0.135-2.05 MeV and a duration of 38.7 sec, while that of November 10, 1977 is found to have a fluence of 0.000021 + or - 0.000008 erg/sq cm between 0.125 and 3 MeV over 2.8 sec. The light curves of both bursts exhibit time fluctuations down to the limiting time resolution of the detectors. The spectrum of the October burst can be fit by a power law of index -1.93 + or -0.16, which is harder than any other gamma-burst spectrum yet reported. The spectrum of the second burst is softer (index -2.4 + or - 0.7), and is consistent with the upper index in the double power law fit to the burst of April 27, 1972.
Effects of frequency of feeding on urea utilization and growth characteristics in dairy heifers.

Summary Forty Guernsey heifers were utilized in multiple-feeding studies with resulting data showing significantly greater (14.4%) body weight gain in heifers fed six times (6×) than those fed twice (2×) daily. No significant difference was observed in wither heights when fed 2× or 6× daily or when the primary grain nitrogen source was from urea or soybean oil meal. There was a significant decrease (11.8%) in estimated Total Digestible Nutrients (TDN) required per pound of body weight gain resulting from 6× feeding as compared to 2× daily feeding. No statistical difference in growth and feed efficiency was observed among heifers fed protein and urea nitrogen when the urea nitrogen ration was fed 6× daily; however, there was a statistically significant (P
Broadband tunable Fabry-Perot filters

Air-spaced tunable Fabry-Perot filters with low phase dispersion reflecting coatings are designed for 1.2-2.5μm and 2.0-5.0μm spectral regions. Calculated performances are presented for two tunable filters with high index materials of amorphous silicon and germanium.
An Undergraduate Marine Internship and Activities Program for the University of Hawaii System

Since 1971 the Marine Option Program has been the principal source for undergraduates from all disciplines in the University of Hawaii to discover and develop their marine interests and talents. The program complements the work of other units, promotes learning by first-hand experience and grants a certificate to students who complete a core of marine-related courses and a practical marine project. By promoting and coordinating opportunities on campus, with governmental agencies, and in the private sector, MOP prepares students for relevant employment opportunities or further specialized training. In addition, the program sponsors special activities aimed at bringing together all who share an interest in and love for the sea.
Dosimetric characteristics of Novalis shaped beam surgery unit

The dosimetric characteristics of a new dedicated radiosurgical treatment unit are systematically measured in terms of its percent depth dose, beam profile, and relative scatter factor. High-resolution diode detector, mini-ion-chamber detector, and conventional Kodak XV films are used to measure dosimetric data for a range of field sizes from 6×6 mm to 100×100 mm. The effects of collimator size, micro-multileaf collimator shape, and detector type on the dosimetric data are investigated. Results indicate that, with careful design, accurate dosimetric data could be acquired using either a dedicated diode detector or a mini-ion-chamber detector, and film detector. Special attention is required when measuring dosimetric data for small field sizes such as 6×6 mm.
Symmetrical linear Co36+ chains cocooned by two polypyridylamide ligands: How do they compare to open chains?

Abstract Two extended metal atom chain (EMAC) compounds having a symmetrical Co36+ metal chain encapsulated by two N,N′-bis[(6′-pyrid-2″-yl)aminopyrid-2′yl]-bismethyl-2,6-diaminopyridinate (mpeptea) ligands have been prepared in good yield, and they have been structurally characterized by X-ray crystallography, magnetic and electrochemical measurements and spectroscopic techniques. For the EMAC [Co3(mpeptea)2]Cl2 two solvates have been crystallized. Anion exchange has also allowed isolation of [Co3(mpeptea)2](BPh4)2. In these three species the Co36+ units are cocooned within two polypyridine ligands having nine nitrogen atoms although only seven of these coordinate to the metal centers. The cations [Co3(mpeptea)2]2+ are similar and have Co ··· Co separations of ca. 2.3 A at 213 K. These distances are consistent with partial bond formation between Co atoms. Electrochemical measurements show a unique one-electron oxidation process that differs from that in open chain species which show two reversible oxidation processes. At 300 K, the χT value is 7.32 emu K mol−1 but this value drops to 1.47 emu K mol−1 as the temperature is lowered to 2 K. The X-band EPR spectra for Co3(mpeptea)22+ show g values of 2.3 at room temperature. The magnetic behavior is quite different from that in compounds with open Co36+ units. A discussion is provided.
Enteric infections and other cofactors in AIDS.

It is generally accepted that human T-cell lymphotropic virus type III (HTL VIII) is the causative agent of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), but, asyet, there are no clear reasons for the different clinical manifestations of AIDS among individuals. In this article Douglas Archer and Walter Glinsmann discuss the history of AIDS and propose a link between HTLV-III infection and gastrointestinal disease processes with attendant malabsorption. They further propose that maximizing the nutritional status and minimizing the incidence of gastrointestinal infection of individuals infected with HTLV-III may prevent development of the full-blown AIDS.
Student views of computer-composition effects on writing

Abstract The purpose of this study is to identify student ideas about the effect of computers on writing. Neural network analysis was employed to analyze 30 essays on this topic by community college students. The analysis showed co-occurring sets of words that could be classified into six idea clusters: evolutionary, futuristic, resource, cognitive process, teaching, and traditional. Each cluster suggests general ideas that pervade the essays; the resource cluster, for example, refers to spell checking, electronic dictionary use, and saving to diskette. The clusters of meaning confirm hypotheses that students simultaneously admire and fear the use of computers for writing.
Mechanism of negative ion formation in low velocity collisions at surfaces

Abstract Theoretical calculations using the coupled angular modes (CAM) method have been used to interpret experimental findings related to the scattered oxygen negative ion fraction (O − ) in collisions of low energy O + with an Al(1 1 0) surface. The increasing O − ion fraction observed experimentally at low O + velocities can be explained in terms of the distance of closest approach Z c to the Al surface and the specific charge state of the projectile at this distance. Both Z c and the charge state influence the charge transfer process between the projectile and the surface at low collision energies.
Knowledge based standards processing

Abstract This paper presents the representational model of a standard, background research in standards processing, and a current research project which uses a knowledge-based system approach to standards processing. The representational model of a standard, based on decision tables, was originally developed in 1966 and has been continually modified and improved since that time. Concurrent with the development of this model was the development of its uses in computer-aided standards processing, such as automated conformance checking and design. As an extension of this standards processing research, a knowledge-based standards processor is being built that will act as an interface between CAD programs and design standards. The knowledge-based standards processor uses a blackboard architecture similar to that of Hearsay-II, a speech understanding program. The processor's knowledge is divided up into about ten knowledge sources, most of which are standard-independent. The knowledge sources are responsible for the development of a design script that can be used to perform the CAD program's member design tasks, while satisfying the governing design standard.
Prospective open-label study of botulinum toxin type B (Myobloc) at doses of 2,400 and 3,000 U for the treatment of glabellar wrinkles.

Background. A previous open-label study evaluated botulinum toxin type B (BTX-B; Myobloc) for the treatment of glabellar wrinkles and showed that it is safe and effective at a dose of 1,800 U. The duration of effect at this dose was approximately 8 weeks, and it was felt that higher doses would result in a longer duration of effect. Objective. This is a prospective open-label study to assess the safety, efficacy, and duration of response following BTX-B injection at doses of 2,400 and 3,000 U for the treatment of glabellar frown lines. Methods. A total of 39 patients were enrolled: 16 patients received 2,400 U. Eighteen patients received 3,000 U, and 5 patients received saline injections (control group). Doses were divided equally among six sites. Results. All subjects had rapid improvement of interglabellar rhytides, with full response seen within 2 to 3 days. The duration of effect was 9.6 and 10.4 weeks with 2,400 and 3,000 U, respectively. Five subjects (two in the 2,400-U group and three in 3,000-U group) reported adverse events related to the BTX-B injection. Three subjects complained of mild pain at the injection site, and two subjects complained about lid droop/ptosis (one with the occurrence of headache). Conclusions. BTX-B injection is safe and effective for the treatment of glabellar wrinkles. It has a very rapid onset of action, and increasing the dose appears to prolong the duration of response. At 3,000 U, the duration of response was 10.4 weeks and was associated with minimal adverse effects. Adverse events were mild and were similar to those seen in previous studies with BTX-A. Additional studies evaluating BTX-B at higher doses are recommended to prolong the duration of response in the treatment of glabellar wrinkles.
Analgesia and anesthesia in camelids

Abstract South American camelids, alpacas and llamas, are increasing in popularity. As a result, veterinarians in North American and European countries are treating increasing numbers of these species in their practices. This article reviews some of the common anesthetic and analgesic practices used in camelids.
On strong unimodality of multivariate discrete distributions

A discrete function f defined on Z^n is said to be logconcave if f(@lx+([email protected])y)>=[f(x)]^@l[f(y)]^1^-^@l for x, y, @lx+([email protected])[email protected]?Z^n. A more restrictive notion is strong unimodality. Following Barndorff-Nielsen [O. Barndorff-Nielsen, Unimodality and exponential families, Commun. Statist. 1 (1973) 189-216] a discrete function p(z),[email protected]?Z^n is called strongly unimodal if there exists a convex function f(x),[email protected]?R^n such that f(x)=-logp(x) if [email protected]?Z^n. In this paper sufficient conditions that ensure the strong unimodality of a multivariate discrete distribution, are given. Examples of strongly unimodal multivariate discrete distributions are presented.
Liraglutide and obesity: a review of the data so far

The prevalence of obesity worldwide has nearly doubled since 1980 with current estimates of 2.1 billion in 2013. Overweight and obesity lead to numerous adverse conditions including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, stroke, and certain cancers. The worldwide spread of obesity and associated comorbidities not only threatens quality of life but also presents a significant economic burden. While bariatric surgery has proven to be a viable treatment option for the morbidly obese, there is clearly a need for less invasive alternatives. Recent research has suggested that long-acting analogs of the gut hormone, glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), may have potential as an antiobesity treatment. The GLP-1 receptor agonist, liraglutide (trade name Saxenda), was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration as an obesity treatment option and shown in clinical trials to be effective in reducing and sustaining body weight loss. This review presents the basis for GLP-1-based therapies with a specific focus on animal and human studies examining liraglutide’s effects on food intake and body weight.
Molecular aspects of the lesch-nyhan syndrome

Resume L'identification de l'anomalie enzymatique hereditaire specifique du syndrome de Lesch-Nyhan a permis de mettre en lumiere au niveau moleculaire la cause d'un certain nombre d'aspects cliniques de la maladie. Bien qu'indetectable dans les erythrocytes circulants des enfants atteints, l'enzyme deficient, l'hypoxanthine guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (HGPRT) est decelable au taux de 1 a 2 p. cent de la normale dans les fibroblastes en culture. Ceci est en faveur d'une mutation du gene de structure plutot que d'une deletion. Sur la base de l'activite residuelle vis-a-vis de plusieurs substrats, de la thermostabilite et de la migration electrophoretique, un grand nombre de mutations differentes interessant le meme locus ont ete mises en evidence. L'augmentation excessive de la synthese des purines presente chez les malades, et decelable dans les fibroblastes en culture, est attribuable a une augmentation de la concentration du phosphoribosylpyrophosphate (PRPP), substrat partage par la reaction limitante sur la voie de biosynthese des purines. Les symptomes neurologiques tels que la choreoathetose, la spasticite, l'auto-mutilation, et le retard intellectuel sont en rapport avec l'absence quasi-totale de l'HGPRT dans le tissu neuronal, et particulierement dans les ganglions de la base, qui normalement sont tres riches en cet enzyme. L'elevation de l'activite d'un autre enzyme, different mais apparente, l'adenine phosphoribosyltransferase (APRT), decelee dans les erythrocytes de ces enfants, est due a un effet de stabilisation par le substrat, le PRPP etant tres augmente. Le mode de transmission genetique lie au chromosome X est confirme par la demonstration d'une mosaique pour le deficit enzymatique chez les meres des enfants atteints. Les tentatives de traitement preventif des symptomes neurologiques par l'administration d'adenine des la naissance ont ete infructueux. Par contre le diagnostic ante-natal dans les grossesses a haut risque est possible et a permis la mise en œuvre d'un programme preventif au stade gestationnel.
Measures of Cognitive Effort

In studying choice processes, it is generally assumed that the cognitive effort involved has a major influence on which process a consumer uses. However, a valid measure of such effort is lacking. To analyze convergent validity, discriminant validity, and reliability, several models of cognitive effort are tested using 14 measures. The best-fitting model has three constructs: total cognitive effort, cognitive strain, and time. Predictive validity is also tested. For choices involving a single period of processing, decision time and two verbal protocol measures are recommended. For choices that occur over multiple periods of processing, three self-report items are recommended.
Is DRM working?: how could we tell?

The success or failure of digital rights management is often taken in legal circles to be a technological question: has a particular scheme already been cracked? How broadly is protected content being redistributed? Can any scheme provide absolute security for content? By these measures, DRM, at least in its most visible applications, has been a failure, as has its legal bulwark, the Digital Millennium Copyright Act. Most widely available schemes are cracked within a few years of release. And due to the nature of the Internet, breaking a scheme once means it is broken everywhere. Under these conditions, absolute security is both required and impossible. This is the so-called "Darknet" hypothesis, first described at the ACM-DRM workshop nine years ago.But the success or failure of DRM and anticircumvention policy generally is also a legal question, or more properly, a question about how law and technology interact with society. Assessing DRM's success therefore requires first determining its place in a copyright landscape that is undergoing a fundamental transformation. That transformation can be described simply as a disappearance of gates. Copyright relies on a world that makes copying without permission costly and difficult. That is, it relies on natural choke points at which access to content can be traded for money.Those natural choke points, or "gates," are disappearing. DRM is an attempt to reestablish a sort of gate, and its success or failure in any given application depends on how well it mimics the real-world gates it is replacing. And that is primarily a social question, not a technological one. Furthermore, it indicates a different set of threats to DRM schemes, and to the policy embodied in the DMCA: to the extent such schemes visibly interfere with common uses, their viability as replacement gates is diminished. The gravest threat to DRM schemes may come not from a particular sophisticated attack, but rather from a dissipation of the illusion of naturalness.
People and places: Welfare reform and the separate effect of caseload characteristics and local conditions

ABSTRACT The shift from hardship alleviation policies to behavior-focused policies in cash assistance highlight competing theoretical approaches to poverty: those focused on individuals' characteristics and those focused on structural factors lying beyond the control of the individual. This research bridges these approaches by examining the question, do local conditions have a separate and independent effect from cash assistance caseload characteristics on affecting caseload declines? The results indicate a separate and independent effect of both local conditions and caseload characteristics in explaining caseload declines suggesting that caseload reductions and the economic sustainability of recipients are affected by individual characteristics, but also by where recipients live.
Urate excretion by the avian kidney.

Abstract 1. 1. Our work does not support fully the idea that uric acid and urate nitrogen excretion is solely a device for the economical elimination of waste nitrogen by birds. 2. 2. It may participate significantly in renal cation excretion as well. 3. 3. Moreover, the presence of precipitated constituents in urine may render invalid the use of conventional osmotic U P ratios as the sole indicator of renal concentrating abilities of birds.
Ultrasonography in the Diagnosis and Follow-up of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma

We present a case with an initial presentation of smooth nasopharyngeal mucosa and vague left upper neck swelling. Palpation-guided fine-needle aspiration was performed initially, but the specimen was inadequate and showed only blood. Ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration of the lymph node was conducted, and cytology suggested metastatic carcinoma. In addition, computed tomography with detailed endoscopic examination and biopsy of the nasopharynx finally confirmed nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Serial change of the malignant lymph node after irradiation was followed by ultra-sound and disappeared on the third month after radiotherapy. Our experiences with this case highlight the benefits of ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration for clinically vague neck masses, in avoiding unnecessary and harmful open biopsies in the diagnosis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients.
Molecular dynamics simulations of the coalescence of iridium clusters

The coalescence of small iridium clusters was studied using a molecular dynamics (MD) technique with a cluster Sutton−Chen potential. MD simulations were carried out on the reaction of two clusters...
High-level factors affecting availability of online government services worldwide

The purpose of this research is to develop and test a parsimonious research model of drivers of e-government. Specifically, we investigate individual and business internet use both as direct antecedents of the availability of online government services and as indirect factors mediated by government development of an information and communications technology (ICT) regulatory environment. Beginning with theoretical motivations provided by the New Institutional Economics, we develop and test our research model using data on 122 countries using 2006 data from the World Economic Forum's (WEF) Global Information Technology Report (GITR). Our findings indicate that business rather than individual internet usage has greater explanatory value as an antecedent to the availability of e-government services, and that the ICT legal environment mediates both relationships.
Peculiarities of ovine cells in culture

The chromosome complement of two ovine (Ovis aries L.) kidney cell lines are described. Nuclei of MDOK, the older cell line, are generally larger than those of OK cells, they are hypo-tetraploid and show considerable chromosomal irregularities both in structure and behavior. The OK line observed since its initiation, is now hyper-diploid and exhibits a gradual accumulation of chromosomes. Both cell lines have in common the fact that they now maintain a larger proportion of chromosomes with interstitial centromeres than telocentric chromosomes. This observation parallels similar ones made earlier in bovine cells. However, the processes whereby this condition arose in the respective cultures are believed to be different and are discussed.
Social structure, networks, and E‐state structuralism models

The method of E‐state structuralism provides dynamic models for the evolution and development of networks in small groups. Our interest lies in the kind of social networks that these models produce. We ask the question of whether such models produce “interesting” structure from a network point‐of‐view, in particular, from the perspective of Holland and Leinhardt who argue that any network that can be modeled adequately using only properties of nodes and dyads has no social structure. We show that E‐state structuralism models are models of social structure in this technical sense because they assume a bystander mechanism in the creation of ties.
The Localism Principle in Communications Policymaking and Policy Analysis: Ambiguity, Inconsistency, and Empirical Neglect

Localism long has been a central guiding principle in communications policymaking, yet its specific meaning and objectives have not been well articulated by policymakers. This article attempts to bring greater clarity to the localism principle, through an examination of how the Federal Communications Commission has defined local programming. Policymakers have failed to establish a clear and stable definition of what constitutes local programming, which has contributed to the sense of ambiguity, uncertainty, and inconsistency that long has characterized localism policymaking. If localism policies are to reflect the rationales upon which they are based, the definition of local programming must be expanded to account not only for a program's point of origin, but for the nature of a program's content as well.
Remarks on a semilinear elliptic equation on Rn

On etudie l'equation elliptique semi-lineaire Δu−u+Q|u| P−1 u=0 dans R n , u≥0, u¬=0 dans R n et u→0 a l'infini avec p telle que 1<1<(n+2)/n−2). On considere l'existence des solutions avec certaines restrictions sur Q
Influence of soil pH on the soybean-endomycorrhiza symbiosis

Soybean (Glycine max {L.} Merr.) cultivars were inoculated withGigaspora gigantea andGlomus mosseae to determine mycorrhizal: cultivar relationships as affected by soil pH. The specific cultivarfungal response was dependent on soil pH. Overall cultivar responses in unlimed soil (pH 5.1) were greater forG. gigantea thanG. mosseae. The ‘Bossier’ —G. gigantea combination was particularly responsive in unlimed soil and showed an increase of 10% in shoot length, 35% in shoot dry weight. 75% in root dry weight, and 397% in nodule dry weight over uninoculated controls. Little cultivar response was observed withG. mosseae inoculation in unlimed soil. In limed soil (pH 6.2), the larger responses were obtained withG. mosseae inoculated plants, although inoculation with eitherG. mosseae orG. gigantea appeared effective. In general, nodulation was greater on mycorrhizal roots than on control roots.
Racial Disparities in Medical Expenditures within Body Weight Categories

Despite federal guidelines calling for the reduction of obesity and elimination of health disparities, black–white differences in obesity prevalence and in medical expenditures and utilization of health care services persist. To examine black–white differences in medical expenditures and utilization of health care services (office-based visits, hospital outpatient visits, ER visits, inpatient stays and prescription medication) within body weight categories. This study used data from the 2006 Medical Expenditures Panel Survey (MEPS) and included 15,164 non-Hispanic white and non-Hispanic black adults. We used a standard two-part econometric model to examine black–white differences in how expenditures (total annual medical expenditures and expenditures for each type of service) vary within body weight categories. Blacks in each weight category were less likely to use any medical care than their white counterparts, even after controlling for socio-demographic characteristics, perceived health status, health conditions and health beliefs. Among those who received medical care, there is no significant difference in the total amount spent on care between blacks and whites. Compared to whites, blacks in each body weight category were significantly less likely to use office-based visits, hospital outpatient visits, and medications. Among those who used medications, blacks had significantly lower expenditures than whites. Blacks in obese class II/III were significantly less likely to have any medical expenditures on inpatient care than their white counterparts. Black–white racial differences in total medical expenditures were observed in each body weight category and were significantly different in the obese I class, overweight, and healthy weight categories. Obese blacks also spent a smaller amount than obese whites—the insignificance might be due to the smaller sample size. These differences cannot be fully explained by socio-demographics, health conditions, or health beliefs. Black–white differences in medical expenditures may be largely due to relatively inexpensive types of care (office-based visits, outpatient care, medication) rather than more costly ones (inpatient care, ER).
ENZYMATIC PHOSPHORYLATION OF ACYCLIC NUCLEOSIDE ANALOGS AND CORRELATIONS WITH ANTIHERPETIC ACTIVITIES

Abstract The inhibitor and substrate specificities of deoxythymidine (dThd) kinase purified from herpes simplex virus (HSV Type 1) were studied. A number of nucleosides and nucleoside analogs were phosphorylated by the virus coded enzyme. These included several compounds structurally related to 9-(2-hydroxyethoxymethyl)guanine (acyclovir), a potent inhibitor of HSV replication. Some contained guanine with 9-substituents differing from that of acyclovir by methylene additions, methylene and thioether substitutions for the ether oxygen, and branching on the distal side of the ether oxygen. Others were various 2-substituted 6-hydroxypurines with the 9-(2-hydroxyethoxymethyl) substituent. A limitation of the specificity of the enzyme with guanine derivatives was the lack of phosphorylation of any derivative with an acyclic moiety branched on the proximal side of the ether oxygen. Many of the compounds that were phosphorylated were subsequently found to inhibit HSV replication. Such compounds apparently inhibited HSV replication via the same route of activation previously described for acyclovir [G. B. Elion, P. A. Furman, J. A. Fyfe, P. de Miranda, L. Beauchamp and H. J. Schaeffer, Proc. natn. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 74 , 5716 (1977)]. Moreover, several compounds not phosphorylated by the enzyme did not inhibit replication. However, some other acyclic nucleoside analogs that were phosphorylated were not good antivirals, indicating that phosphorylation catalyzed by the HSV dThd kinase was not sufficient for inhibition of viral replication to occur. These results emphasize the importance of the specificity of cellular kinases and the HSV DNA polymerase to the mechanism of antiviral activity. The dThd kinase from Vero cells was also purified. With this host cell enzyme, kinetic constants of known antiviral compounds were determined and compared to those of dThd (relative V ′ max ; k ′ m ): dThd (100; 1.3 μM), 5-iodo-2′-deoxyuridine (87; 1.8 μM), 5-trifluoromethyl-2′-deoxyuridine (91; 1.2 μM), 5-bromo-2′-deoxycytidine (5; 580 μM), and 9-β- d -arabinofuransoylthymine (23; 2300 μM). None of the purine acyclic nucleoside analogs tested (at 1000 μM) was detectably phosphorylated by the Vero cell enzyme, and all had apparent K i values >300 μM. The phosphorylation catalyzed by host cell dThd kinase correlated with the toxicity of some pyrimidine nucleoside analogs.
A Growth-Stimulating Factor for an Epithelial Cell Line in a Reduced Serum Medium

A concentrate obtained from heated solutions of glucose and phosphate demonstrated a stimulatory effect upon epithelial cells cultured in vitro. Survival, attachment to glass, and early cell division were influenced favorably.
Pineal Parenchymal Tumor of Intermediate DifferentiationClinicopathological Report and Analysis of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Variant III Expression

OBJECTIVE: Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGF) receptor gene amplification is commonly seen in cancer and is the target of many therapies. EGF receptor variant III (EGFRvIII) is the most common variant of the EGF receptor and has been detected in a large percent - age of patients with glioblastoma multiforme but not in normal brain. Therapies targeting EGFRvIII are currently being investigated in clinical and preclinical trials. METHODS: A 14-year-old girl who presented with headaches was found to have a pineal parenchymal tumor of intermediate differentiation. We review the histopathological properties that led to the diagnosis of this tumor. EGF receptor gene amplification and EGFRvIII expression have not been analyzed in pineal tumors. We investigated EGF receptor gene status and EGFRvIII expression in this patient's tumor. RESULTS: Tumor tissue was obtained and analyzed with flow cytometry, reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction, and Western blot analysis. EGFRvIII was detected by all 3 methods. The tumor was further analyzed by fluorescence in situ hybridization, which did not reveal EGF receptor gene amplification. CONCLUSION: This is the first report of EGFRvIII expression in a pineal tumor. It is interesting that this variant is detected in the absence of EGF receptor gene amplification. A larger study evaluating the presence of EGFRvlll in pineal tumors is needed.