cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The C2 domain of the Rsp5 ubiquitin ligase binds membrane phosphoinositides and directs ubiquitination of endosomal cargo

Ubiquitin ligases of the Nedd4 family regulate membrane protein trafficking by modifying both cargo proteins and the transport machinery with ubiquitin. Here, we investigate the role of the yeast Nedd4 homologue, Rsp5, in protein sorting into vesicles that bud into the multivesicular endosome (MVE) en route to the vacuole. A mutant lacking the Rsp5 C2 domain is unable to ubiquitinate or sort biosynthetic cargo into MVE vesicles, whereas endocytic cargo is ubiquitinated and sorted efficiently. The C2 domain binds specifically to phosphoinositides in vitro and is sufficient for localization to membranes in intact cells. Mutation of a lysine-rich patch on the surface of the C2 domain abolishes membrane interaction and disrupts sorting of biosynthetic cargo. Translational fusion of ubiquitin to a biosynthetic cargo protein alleviates the requirement for the C2 domain in its MVE sorting. These results demonstrate that the C2 domain specifies Rsp5-dependent ubiquitination of endosomal cargo and suggest that Rsp5 function is regulated by membrane phosphoinositides.
Evaluation of Molecular Modeling of Agonist Binding in Light of the Crystallographic Structure of an Agonist-Bound A2A Adenosine Receptor

Molecular modeling of agonist binding to the human A2A adenosine receptor (AR) was assessed and extended in light of crystallographic structures. Heterocyclic adenine nitrogens of cocrystallized agonist overlaid corresponding positions of the heterocyclic base of a bound triazolotriazine antagonist, and ribose moiety was coordinated in a hydrophilic region, as previously predicted based on modeling using the inactive receptor. Automatic agonist docking of 20 known potent nucleoside agonists to agonist-bound A2AAR crystallographic structures predicted new stabilizing protein interactions to provide a structural basis for previous empirical structure activity relationships consistent with previous mutagenesis results. We predicted binding of novel C2 terminal amino acid conjugates of A2AAR agonist CGS21680 and used these models to interpret effects on binding affinity of newly synthesized agonists. d-Amino acid conjugates were generally more potent than l-stereoisomers and free terminal carboxylates more po...
Integrating machine learning with knowledge-based systems

Summary form only given. The integration of expert systems and learning systems that can manipulate the knowledge base appropriately in hybrid systems involving large knowledge bases is discussed. Hybrids of knowledge-based and learning systems with various functionalities are described. The benefits of studying such hybrid systems are examined. >
THE UBIQUITOUS PRESENCE OF CHLOROPHYLL D IN RED ALGAE FROM THE MONTEREY PENINSULA

The presence of chlorophyll d in red algae has been a subject of great controversy, however, only a few studies have been devoted to this subject, and evidence for its existence has been inconsistent. Here we report on results of a survey of 56 species of red macroalgae from central California, 3 species from Baja California Sur, Mexico, and 2 species from Cape Evans, Antarctica. Chlorophyll d was detected in 48 of the California species, 1 of the Mexico species, and 1 of the Antarctica species. Chlorophyll a/d ratio ranged from 6 to 21123. The fraction of species of red algae containing chlorophyll d was higher in samples collected in October (36 out of 36), than those collected in June (12 out of 29) or March (4 out of 22). Chlorophyll d was not detected in any of the brown or green macroalgae analyzed. In vivo absorption spectra of Gelidium sp. were collected, and resolution of these spectra by fourth derivative resulted an absorption maximum at 687 nm due to chlorophyll a, and at 719 nm due to chlorophyll d. Extracted pigment of Gelidium sp. in 90% acetone had an absorption maximum of 664 nm, and a smaller absorption peak at 692 nm. Fluorescence emission and excitation spectra resulted in a maximum of 699 nm and 447 nm, respectively. The emission peak wavelength of 699 and an absorption peak longer than that of chlorophyll a (699 nm compared to 664 nm) suggest chlorophyll d may serve as a light-harvesting pigment in photosynthesis.
Mutations in Arabidopsis Multidrug Resistance-Like ABC Transporters Separate the Roles of Acropetal and Basipetal Auxin Transport in Lateral Root Development

Auxin affects the shape of root systems by influencing elongation and branching. Because multidrug resistance (MDR)-like ABC transporters participate in auxin transport, they may be expected to contribute to root system development. This reverse genetic study of Arabidopsis thaliana roots shows that MDR4-mediated basipetal auxin transport did not affect root elongation or branching. However, impaired acropetal auxin transport due to mutation of the MDR1 gene caused 21% of nascent lateral roots to arrest their growth and the remainder to elongate 50% more slowly than the wild type. Reporter gene analyses indicated a severe auxin deficit in the apex of mdr1 but not mdr4 lateral roots. The mdr1 deficit was explained by 40% less acropetal auxin transport within the mdr1 lateral roots. The slow elongation of mdr1 lateral roots was rescued by auxin and phenocopied in the wild type by an inhibitor of polar auxin transport. Confocal microscopy analysis of a functional green fluorescent protein–MDR1 translational fusion showed the protein to be auxin inducible and present in the tissues responsible for acropetal transport in the primary root. The protein also accumulated in lateral root primordia and later in the tissues responsible for acropetal transport within the lateral root, fully supporting the conclusion that auxin levels established by MDR1-dependent acropetal transport control lateral root growth rate to influence root system architecture.
Neurofibromin is a novel regulator of RAS-induced signals in primary vascular smooth muscle cells

Neurofibromatosis type I (NF1) is a genetic disorder caused by mutations in the NF1 tumor suppressor gene. Neurofibromin is encoded by NF1 and functions as a negative regulator of Ras activity. NF1 patients develop renal artery stenosis and arterial occlusions resulting in cerebral and visceral infarcts. Further, NF1 patients develop vascular neurofibromas where tumor vessels are invested in a dense pericyte sheath. Although it is well established that aberrations in Ras signaling lead to human malignancies, emerging data generated in genetically engineered mouse models now implicate perturbations in the Ras signaling axis in vascular smooth muscular cells (VSMCs) as central to the initiation and progression of neointimal hyperplasia and arterial stenosis. Despite these observations, the function of neurofibromin in regulating VSMC function and how Ras signals are terminated in VSMCs is virtually unknown. Utilizing VSMCs harvested from Nf1+/- mice and primary human neurofibromin-deficient VSMCs, we identify a discrete Ras effector pathway, which is tightly regulated by neurofibromin to limit VSMC proliferation and migration. Thus, these studies identify neurofibromin as a novel regulator of Ras activity in VSMCs and provide a framework for understanding cardiovascular disease in NF1 patients and a mechanism by which Ras signals are attenuated for maintaining VSMC homeostasis in blood vessel walls.
The effect of epithelial remnant and whole organ grafts of thymus on the recovery of thymectomized irradiated mice.

Work has been presented which suggests that thymus epithelial reticular cells are not effective in restoring the microscopic morphology of lymphoid tissues and their immunologic capacities. They function in recruiting precursors of thymus lymphocytes from the host animals to produce an organ which, after it becomes architecturally normal, can reconstitute the defective host. Intact thymus grafts in situ from 10–14 days, but not for shorter periods of time, have been shown to result in a return toward normal of these two parameters. Evidence is offered to show that few dividing cellular components in the lymphoid tissue originate from the thymus remnant grafts, and that a minor cellular component is contributed by the intact grafts. These data support the concept that the structural and functional development of the lymphatic tissue in thymectomized animals is dependent on thymus lymphoid cells and/or their products, and that the epithelial-reticular cells do not have a direct action in peripheral lymphoid reconstitution.
Imipramine-induced hyperpigmentation: four cases and a review of the literature.

Abstract Background: Hyperpigmentation is a side effect of several medications, including amiodarone, bleomycin, chlorpromazine, and minocycline. Objective: The purpose of this study is to describe the clinical and light microscopic findings in 4 patients with imipramine-induced hyperpigmentation and to better understand its origin. Methods: All 4 patients underwent a skin biopsy for light microscopy. In 1 patient, a biopsy specimen was obtained for electron microscopy. Tissue from patient 1 was analyzed with a mass spectrophotometer, and energy-dispersive x-ray analysis was performed on tissue from patients 1 and 2. Results: All 4 women had been taking imipramine for at least 2 years. Hyperpigmentation occurred in a photodistribution on the face, arms, and backs of the hands. Light microscopy in all cases demonstrated golden-brown granules in the superficial dermis, which were strongly positive for Fontana-Masson stain. Electron microscopy demonstrated areas of electron-dense inclusion bodies within macrophages, which were distinct from melanosomes. Mass spectrophotometric and energy-dispersive x-ray analysis of the electron-dense bodies showed the presence of sulfur atoms, and no peak corresponding to that expected for imipramine was found. A peak closely corresponding to phaeomelanin, a sulfur-containing compound, was found. Conclusion: Hyperpigmentation is a side effect of long-term imipramine use. It may result from the deposition of melanin in an unusual form. The melanin pigment is possibly complexed with a metabolite of imipramine, and does not represent the deposition of imipramine in its native form. (J Am Acad Dermatol 1999;40:159-66.)
Structural characterization of selected prosthetic-orthotic polymers by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy

The structural characterization for five currently used prosthetic-orthotic polymers, determined by proton ( 1 H) nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, showed residual unsaturation, C=C groups, in all materials, ranging from 1.7 to 15%. The determination of residual unsaturation by 1 H-NMR spectroscopy in polymers contributes information that may be useful for : (1) quality control of batches of materials, and (2) the development of standards, test methods necessary to evaluate the effects of environmental influences associated with long-term clinical service. Materials selected for current usage were : DurrPlex (polyethylene terephthalate), polypropylene, Subortholen (polyethylene), Surlyn (ethylene methacrylate ionomer), and Uvex (cellulose acetate butyrate).
Solving the aircraft routing problem using network flow algorithms

The aircraft routing problem (ARP) is formulated as a time-dependent network flow problem and proved to be NP-hard, using a reduction from the NP-complete 3-dimensional matching problem (3DM). Flow scheduling and dynamic network theory concepts are used to develop an Integer Program (IP) formulation of the ARP, which can be solved exactly through software such as CPLEX. Linear program (LP) relaxation and rounding techniques are used to solve this formulation in pseudo-polynomial time. A heuristic first-come-first-served (FCFS) is also implemented. Scenarios of routing under congestion and rerouting due to weather show that the FCFS has the fastest run-time but worst performance, while the IP formulation is optimal but has no guarantees on run-time. For a given time horizon, the LP formulation runs in polynomial time and is often optimal, with bounded suboptimality otherwise.
Neural network classification of metal surface properties using a dynamic touch sensor

Discusses an application of neural networks to classify signals produced by a dynamic touch sensor, and achieve automated characterization of metal surfaces during machining. Data are first preprocessed and the spectral features are input to a feedforward one-hidden-layer neural network, trained with backpropagation. The classification accuracy was over 90% for most of the surfaces. The authors discuss the experimental setup, the preprocessing, and a critical view of the classification results. >
The effects of poliomyelitis on motor unit behavior during repetitive muscle actions: a case report

Acute paralytic poliomyelitis is caused by the poliovirus and usually results in muscle atrophy and weakness occurring in the lower limbs. Indwelling electromyography has been used frequently to investigate the denervation and innervation characteristics of the affected muscle. Recently developed technology allows the decomposition of the raw surface electromyography signals into the firing instances of single motor units. There is limited information regarding this electromyographic decomposition in clinical populations. In addition, regardless of electromyographic methods, no study has examined muscle activation parameters during repetitive muscle actions in polio patients. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the motor unit firing rates and electromyographic amplitude and center frequency of the vastus lateralis during 20 repetitive isometric muscle actions at 50% maximal voluntary contraction in healthy subjects and one patient that acquired acute paralytic poliomyelitis. One participant that acquired acute type III spinal poliomyelitis (Caucasian male, age = 29 yrs) at 3 months of age and three healthy participants (Caucasian females, age = 19.7 ± 2.1 yrs) participated in this study. The polio participant reported neuromuscular deficiencies as a result of disease in the hips, knees, buttocks, thighs, and lower legs. None of the healthy participants reported any current or ongoing neuromuscular diseases or musculoskeletal injuries. An acute bout of poliomyelitis altered motor unit behavior, such as, healthy participants displayed greater firing rates than the polio patient. The reduction in motor unit firing rates was likely a fatigue protecting mechanism since denervation via poliomyelitis results in a reduction of motorneurons. In addition, the concurrent changes in motor unit firing rates, electromyography amplitude and frequency for the polio participant would suggest that the entire motorneuron pool was utilized in each contraction unlike for the healthy participants. Finally, healthy participants exhibited changes in all electromyographic parameters during the repetitive muscle actions despite successfully completing all contractions with only a slight reduction in force. Thus, caution is warranted when quantifying muscular fatigue via motor unit firing rates and other electromyographic parameters since the parameters changed despite successful completing of all contractions with only a moderate reduction in strength in healthy subjects.
International policies for achieving safe motherhood: women's lives in the balance.

Every minute of every day somewhere in the world one woman dies during pregnancy or childbirth and eight newborns die, which is a great loss to families and to societies. Nearly two decades of global efforts to promote safe motherhood and newborn health have led to several conclusions as to why these unnecessary deaths of women and newborns continue, especially in the developing world. Healthy women are needed for healthy newborns and families, yet attention to the health of women, especially during childbearing, has received minimal or no attention at country and lo cal levels where policies seem to ignore the value of the girl–child, women and newborns. One of the most important interventions proven to promote safe or healthy pregnancy for women and their newborns is the availability of skilled care—the combination of an accredited health professional with midwifery skills working in an well-equipped environment at the community level, supported by the political will needed to save the lives of mothers ...
Technologies, Discourse Analysis, and the Spoken Word: The MRC Approach: An Empirical Approach to Interpreter Performance Evaluation and Pedagogy

Given the evanescent quality of the spoken word, interpreters tend to be evaluated, trained, and selected on the basis of unproven theories and preconceptions about the cognitive processes and areas of difficulty associated with their work. A gap persists between theoretical work and empirical evidence of the processes proposed by such studies. Recent developments in technology are now being applied to interpreter performance evaluation, shedding light on aspects of interpreter performance that have previously resisted systematic analysis. It is now possible to examine large volumes of language in use, in both audio and textual realms. This paper presents the MRC model for analysis of interpreter performance and a study conducted using that method for the purpose of identifying interpreter training needs. Theoretical background, the MRC model, and the study outcomes and pedagogical implications are presented.
High-resolution aliphatic side-chain assignments in 3D HCcoNH experiments with joint H-C evolution and non-uniform sampling.

We describe an efficient NMR triple resonance approach that correlates, at high resolution, protein side-chain and backbone resonances. It relies on the combination of two strategies: joint evolution of aliphatic side-chain proton/carbon coherences using a backbone N–H based HCcoNH reduced dimensionality (RD) experiment and non-uniform sampling (NUS) in two indirect dimensions. A typical data set containing such correlation information can be acquired in 2 days, at very high resolution unfeasible for conventional 4D HCcoNH-TOCSY experiments. The resonances of the aliphatic side-chain protons are unambiguously assigned to their attached carbons through the analysis of the ‘sum’ and ‘difference’ spectra. This approach circumvents the tedious process of manual resonance assignments using HCcH-TOCSY data, while providing additional resolving power of backbone N–H signals. A simple peak-list based algorithm has been implemented in the IBIS software for rapid automated backbone and side-chain assignments.
The Role of Carbon in Amorphous Silicon Nip Photodiode Sensors

We have been investigating the dark current and quantum efficiency of nip and pin photodiodes for document scanning applications. Alloying the top doped layer with carbon or making it microcrystalline was found to enhance the spectral response without causing significant deleterious effects to dark current. We also observed lower dark currents in both pin and nip(μc-Si:C:H) sensors compared to nip(a-Si:C:H) sensors, which we attribute to a more graded p-i interface in the former devices.
Diagnostic Approach to Eosinophilic Renal Neoplasms

Context.— Eosinophilic renal neoplasms include a spectrum of solid and papillary tumors ranging from indolent benign oncocytoma to highly aggressive malignancies. Recognition of the correct nature of the tumor, especially in biopsy specimens, is paramount for patient management. Objective.— To review the diagnostic approach to eosinophilic renal neoplasms with light microscopy and ancillary techniques. Data Sources.— Review of the published literature and personal experience. Conclusions.— The following tumors are in the differential diagnosis of oncocytic renal cell neoplasm: oncocytoma, chromophobe renal cell carcinoma (RCC), hybrid tumor, tubulocystic carcinoma, papillary RCC, clear cell RCC with predominant eosinophilic cell morphology, follicular thyroid-like RCC, hereditary leiomyomatosis–associated RCC, acquired cystic disease–associated RCC, rhabdoid RCC, microphthalmia transcription factor translocation RCC, epithelioid angiomyolipoma, and unclassified RCC. In low-grade nonpapillary eosinophilic ...
Introducing parallel and distributed computing concepts in digital logic

This chapter provides a framework for introducing parallel and distributed computing (PDC) concepts as they arise naturally in digital logic. It is directed primarily at the instructor of a first digital logic course, although a motivated student may find it useful as well. Because a digital logic course lays the foundation for other courses, such as courses on computer organization and architecture, early exposure to PDC concepts will have a wide reach. Moreover, the introduction of these concepts through a less conventional direction complements and enhances understanding of these ideas when they are taught subsequently through conventional avenues such as programming, algorithms, and architecture. Thus, while the chapter primarily addresses instructors of digital logic, instructors of courses more directly associated with PDC may also benefit by connecting the concepts to topics that students learned earlier. We also anticipate that casting digital logic concepts in multiple ways will also help students better understand digital logic.
Highly stretchable and sensitive piezoresistive carbon nanotube/elastomeric triisocyanate-crosslinked polytetrahydrofuran nanocomposites

Piezoresistive polymer nanocomposites are highly desirable for flexible mechanical sensing applications. In this study, a family of multi-walled carbon nanotube (CNT)/elastomeric triisocyanate-crosslinked polytetrahydrofuran (ETC-PTHF) nanocomposites that are highly stretchable and highly sensitive to mechanical stimuli were designed, synthesized, and characterized. The CNTs in the CNT/ETC-PTHF nanocomposites were initially dispersed in the ETC-PTHF matrix uniformly, leading to a relatively high electrical conductivity. Upon stretching, both the degree of CNT alignment along the stretching direction and the degree of PTHF crystallinity increased consistently with the tensile strain. The strain-induced microstructure change adversely affected the CNT conducting pathways, thereby reducing the electrical conductivity of the nanocomposites. For instance, the electrical conductivity of the 15 wt% CNT/ETC-PTHF nanocomposites decreased by approximately 7.3%, 29.2%, and 19.76, 169.2 and 1291 times when the tensile strain was 1%, 5%, 50%, 250%, and 500%, respectively. The nanocomposite film was able to detect a mechanical stimulus (poking) weaker than the landing force of a mosquito. Furthermore, the nanocomposite film demonstrated rapid and highly sensitive responses to continuous finger motion. These new piezoresistive CNT/ETC-PTHF nanocomposites possess a number of desirable characteristics including ease of fabrication, low cost, and high sensitivity, thereby making them very promising candidates for applications in electronic skins, electronic textiles, and biomedical detectors.
Hedonic adaptation and satiation: Understanding switching behavior in the restaurant industry

Abstract The role of satiation as a determinant of restaurant patronage has been the subject of increasing research attention. The purpose of this research is to further consider the relationship between satiation and switching behavior in the restaurant industry. Specifically, we seek to address the mediating mechanism of service quality in this framework. Based on the related tenets of diminishing marginal utility and hedonic adaptation, we propose that satiation and service quality are inversely related. The results of an empirical analysis confirm that as consumers become satiated with food, atmosphere, and restaurant service, perceptions of these three facets of overall service quality are diminished, leading to decreased satisfaction and switching intentions. In addition to the practical implications of these results, the finding that satiation directly impacts service quality represents an important step in the overall task of understanding the effects of satiation in determining restaurant patronage behavior.
Introduction to Special Issue on the Precautionary Principle and its Operationalisation in International Environmental Regimes and Domestic Policymaking

This introductory article frames the issues associated with operationalization of the precautionary principle in the context of environmental regimes at the international, national, and local level, with an emphasis on international regimes.
Grandiose Narcissism Predicts Willingness to Behave Badly, Without Proportional Tolerance for Others’ Bad Behavior

Narcissists characteristically behave badly; our study investigated how they respond to experiencing others’ bad behavior. After completing the Narcissistic Personality Inventory, a measure of grandiose narcissism, participants reported their willingness to engage in different inconsiderate or unethical common behaviors. Then they reported how bothered they would feel in response to experiencing each of the same bad behaviors—perpetrated by someone else. Participants overall reported feeling bothered by others’ bad behavior, but narcissism was unrelated to intolerance judgments. Narcissists are often highly reactive when their inflated self-views are challenged, but our study suggests that narcissists are not uniquely bothered by everyday minor offenses. However, when viewed from a different angle, narcissists’ level of intolerance could be interpreted as unjustly high, because they reported more willingness to engage in behavior that could bother others, yet did not show proportional tolerance for others’ bothersome behavior.
β-Adrenergic regulation of amiloride-sensitive lung sodium channels

We investigated the mechanism by which cAMP increases sodium transport in lung epithelial cells. Alveolar type II (ATII) cells have two types of amiloride-sensitive, cation channels: a nonselective...
Effects of Strain Hardening on Fluid-Thermal-Structural Interactions

This paper describes an on-going effort towards predicting the role of material plasticity in the structural response of compliant panels in high speed flow. This work is an extension of a previous study, where a fluid-thermal-structural-material interactions framework is used to investigate the response of elastic and elastic-plastic panels subjected to multiple loading cycles. The plastic material response is predicted concurrently using a nonlinear strain hardening law that accounts for cyclic loading. It was found that residual deformation on the order of one panel thickness can produce characteristically different responses for elastic and plastic panels. After several loading cycles, the onset of flutter for the permanently deformed panel increased beyond the time responses considered.
New Employees' Stressors Study of the National Commercial Bank in Chongqing

In this paper, according to the survey of 150 new employees of Chongqing national commercial banks, the author analyzed their pressure sources. The stressors mainly included the hard tasks, too long work time, interpersonal skills and cognitive biases. Based on this, he gave some suitable ideas such as the reasonable task, scientific arrangement of work, a good communication mechanism and the correct cognition to slow their stresses.
The CAT-FAWN connection: Using metacognition and Indigenous worldview for more effective character education and human survival

AbstractA number of character (or moral) education researchers rightly point to the importance of metacognition as an essential component for success. Thinking about one’s thinking, however, quickly reaches a significant limitation if subconscious beliefs are not included in the reflections—and they seldom are. Concentration-Activated Transformation (CAT) suggests that trance-based learning, intentional or not, is a source for such beliefs. How they relate to Fear, Authority, Words and Nature (FAWN) determines whether learning modifications are positive or negative. Because uninvestigated beliefs about FAWN usually stem from one’s worldview, it becomes vital to use metacognition for evaluating the efficacy of our dominant worldview understandings by contrasting them to the Indigenous worldview, the only other significant historically observable existing option. In doing so, honest reflection reveals that Indigenous ways of engaging FAWN yield higher levels of character actualization, especially as relates...
Visualizing the formation of an RNA folding intermediate through a fast highly modular secondary structure switch

Intermediates play important roles in RNA folding but can be difficult to characterize when short-lived or not significantly populated. By combining (15)N relaxation dispersion NMR with chemical probing, we visualized a fast (kex=k1+k-1≈423 s(-1)) secondary structural switch directed towards a low-populated (∼3%) partially folded intermediate in tertiary folding of the P5abc subdomain of the 'Tetrahymena' group I intron ribozyme. The secondary structure switch changes the base-pairing register across the P5c hairpin, creating a native-like structure, and occurs at rates of more than two orders of magnitude faster than tertiary folding. The switch occurs robustly in the absence of tertiary interactions, Mg(2+) or even when the hairpin is excised from the three-way junction. Fast, highly modular secondary structural switches may be quite common during RNA tertiary folding where they may help smoothen the folding landscape by allowing folding to proceed efficiently via additional pathways.
Changes in sexual behavior by young urban heterosexual adults in response to the AIDS epidemic

Abstract Young adults residing in four States were enrolled in the period 1985-88 in a multicenter study of cardiovascular disease risk factors. In 1989, 2,729 members of the group were given a self-administered questionnaire that included questions on changes in sexual behavior that subjects had made in response to the epidemic of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). The final sample of 1,601 young, heterosexual, urban respondents included 412 white men, 568 white women, 224 black men, and 397 black women, all ages 21 to 40 years. Overall, nearly 50 percent of the sample reported having made at least one change in their sexual behavior in response to the AIDS epidemic to decrease their risk of becoming infected by the human immunodeficiency virus. The mean number of changes was 0.8 for white men, 1.1 for white women, 1.6 for black men, and 1.5 for black women. Change was reported more frequently by black respondents than white, with no significant sex differences. The categories of respondents reporting behavior changes were more often young, with a history of recreational drug use, with more sex partners, or having had anal intercourse. The most commonly reported behavior changes were reducing the number of sex partners and being more careful in partner selection. Of the 54 percent of respondents who did not report any change in sexual behavior, about 70 percent reported unprotected sex with more than one partner in the previous year. Significant sexual behavior change in response to the AIDS epidemic remains a goal for health education efforts.
Of Germs and Borders

In some respects, the epidemic of ‘firsts’ discussed in Chapter 1 is misleading. What transpired in the SARS outbreak has frequently happened in the past — a new pathogenic microbe emerged in humans, spread to other countries through international trade and travel, caused economic, political, and social disruption, and revealed weaknesses in, or the nonexistence of, public health capabilities. The great cliche of infectious disease control — germs do not recognize borders — applies to earlier outbreaks as equally as it applies to SARS. Public health experts could be forgiven for experiencing deja vu as the SARS outbreak unfolded.
Catalyst-Free Rearrangement of Allenyl Aryldiazoacetates into 1,5-Dihydro-4H-pyrazol-4-ones

Phenylpropargyl diazoacetates exist in equilibrium with 1-phenyl-1,2-dien-1-yl diazoacetate - allenes that are rapidly formed at room temperature through 1,3-acyloxy migration catalyzed by gold(I) or gold(III) compounds, and these catalysts react solely with the π-donor rather than with the diazo group. The product allene of the aryldiazoacetates undergoes rearrangement that is not catalyzed by gold in which the terminal nitrogen of the diazo functional group adds to the central carbon of the allene, initiating a sequence of bond-forming reactions, resulting in the production of 1,5-dihydro-4H-pyrazol-4-ones in good yields. These 1,5-dihydro-4H-pyrazol-4-ones undergo intramolecular 1,3-acyl migration to form an equilibrium mixture and can quantitatively transfer the acyl group to an external nucleophile with formation of 4-hydroxypyrazoles. Reactions of phenylpropargyl phenyldiazoacetates catalyzed by cationic gold complexes are initiated at the diazo functional group to form a gold carbene whose subseque...
Experience with implantable cardioverter defibrillator in african-americans: Is there an effect of cocaine usage on defibrillation threshold?

Objective: Some earlier studies have suggested that cocaine use in African-Americans (AAs) results in higher defibrillation thresholds. We are therefore reviewing our own experience with this racial group for comparison. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of AA patients who had placement by a single operator of implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) at an inner city hospital from January 2006 to December 2015. Results: Seventy-four patients, mean age 59.2 ± 12.9 years, comprising 37 (50.0%) males, underwent ICD implantation of which 67.6% were single chamber and 32.4% dual chamber devices. Diagnosis was nonischemic cardiomyopathy in 68.9% and indication for device therapy was primary prevention in 87.8%. Sixty-six (89.2%) patients were noncocaine users, whereas 8 (10.8%) were cocaine abusers. The mean age, ejection fraction, and defibrillation threshold between the noncocaine and cocaine users were 60.2 ± 12.8 versus 51.3 ± 12.4 ( P = 0.642), 21.6 ± 8.3 versus 16.1 ± 4.6 ( P = 0.0704), and 23.5 ± 5.0 versus 25.0 ± 8.4 ( P = 0.447), respectively. Biotronik device patients had complete follow-up and they had an all-cause mortality of 28.8% (15/52), while 27.0% (10/37) of the survivors had at least one or more antitachycardia pacing or high voltage shock therapies. Conclusion: There was no statistically significant difference in defibrillation threshold testing observed in AA patients in our series between noncocaine and cocaine users as previously seen in some earlier small reviews. Larger studies or meta-analysis of several studies to accumulate a substantial number of AAs using cocaine may be required for a definitive answer to the question.
Profound calf muscle dysfunction following hip dislocation monitored by air plethysmography

IntroductionCalf muscle atrophy is commonly noted after lower-extremity immobilization. Air plethysmography (APG) provides an easily reproducible, noninvasive diagnostic test that is useful in meas...
Stainless Steel Passivation Using Electropolishing and Thermal Treatments

AbstractTritium is highly reactive with many materials. It is adsorbed onto and absorbed through the surface of containment vessels subsequently modifying the contained gas composition by isotopic exchange and catalytic reactions with surface elements and adsorbed gas species. Savannah River Tritium Enterprise (SRTE) uses a proprietary surface treatment that is intended to render the surface inert. Unfortunately, this process has not proven to be sufficiently robust for containing tritium gas standards. SRTE has funded a project that will explore the effects of electropolishing and vacuum and oxidizing thermal treatments on surface passivation of stainless steel (SS). Herein, a statistically designed series of experiments will be discussed that will inform optimized parameters for acid composition, current density, and other electrochemical process variables for the passivation of SS. The surfaces were analyzed using Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS), Auger Electron Spectroscopy (AES), Atomic Fo...
Platelet storage at 22 degrees C: effect of type of agitation on morphology, viability, and function in vitro

Recovery in vivo after 51Cr labeling, platelet morphology, and platelet aggregation were studied with platelet concentrates (PC) stored for transfusion under carefully controlled conditions. PC were prepared to a final volume of 50 ml from whole blood anticoagulated with citrate-phosphate-dextrose (CPD). The platelet count was kept between 0.8 and 1.6 X 10(12) platelets/liter. The PC were stored in bags constructed of polyvinylchloride (PVC) or polyethylene (PE) at 22 degrees C for 72 hr. The bags were placed on a horizontal shaker or a ferris wheel for agitation during storage. No significant changes in pH or platelet count were observed during storage. PC stored on the wheel showed moderate loss of viability and a marked deterioration of platelet morphology and aggregation compared to the shaker. PC stored on the shaker in bags made of PE showed better aggregation with ADP and thrombin but had the same viability and morphology as PC in bags constructed of PVC. Maintenance of normal platelet morphology as determined by phase-contrast microscopy, extent of shape change response, and the size distribution according to the Coulter Counter correlated with recovery in vivo.
Understanding the Message of Understanding Media

ABSTRACTUnderstanding Media is Marshall McLuhan’s most influential book, and the work that is most central to the field of media ecology. The first chapter is devoted to his most important statement, the medium is the message, an aphorism that contains multiple meanings that need to be unpacked. For example, it serves as a call to pay attention to the media, symbols systems, and technologies that form our invisible environment, which requires a reversal of figure-ground relationships. We generally ignore the medium or technology and only pay attention to its content or the way that it is used, but it is the medium that has the greater impact. McLuhan emphasizes the singular term medium, rather than the plural media, because each medium has a message of its own, that is, a particular bias that differs from the biases of other media. The relationship between medium and content is asymmetrical, that of environment and its contents, and there can be no content without there first being a medium that is used t...
SURVEY OF GROSS AND HISTOPATHOLOGIC FINDINGS IN TWO WINTERING SUBPOPULATIONS OF SANDHILL CRANES (ANTIGONE CANADENSIS)

ABSTRACT: Sandhill Cranes (Antigone canadensis) of the midcontinent population (MCP) and Rocky Mountain population (RMP) are migratory game birds with stable populations that travel between Canada and the southern US and Mexico. In the winters of 2012–14, we performed gross and histologic examinations of 43 hunter-harvested Sandhill Cranes in Texas (MCP) and New Mexico (RMP) to assess the impact of disease on populations. Lesions were significantly more common in the MCP relative to the RMP, likely reflecting differential environmental exposure to pathogens and parasites. Grossly, liver nodules and esophageal granulomas were present in 8–39% of birds. In feces from over half of birds, we found coccidian oocysts with mitochondrial gene sequences identical to those of Eimeria gruis and Eimeria reichenowi previously obtained from sympatric Whooping Cranes (Grus americana). Over one-quarter of birds had liver and cardiac lesions suggestive of disseminated visceral coccidiosis. We documented proliferative col...
Nickel/Photoredox-Catalyzed Amidation via Alkylsilicates and Isocyanates

A nickel/photoredox, dual-catalyzed amidation reaction between alkylsilicate reagents and alkyl/aryl isocyanates is reported. In contrast to the previously reported reductive coupling process, this protocol is characterized by mild reaction conditions and the absence of a stoichiometric reductant. A mechanistic hypothesis involving a nickel-isocyanate adduct is proposed based on literature precedent and further validation by experimental results.
Biopsychosocial Distress in Young Adult Oncology Patients: Examining Sex Differences in Sources of High Distress and Requests for Assistance

Purpose: This study examines biopsychosocial problem-related distress and requests for assistance with male and female young adult patients by applying a large-scale analysis among individuals diag...
Professionalism versus Antiharassment in Student Evaluation

An ideal medical school policy addressing harassment would provide help and training for faculty who wish to help students behave more professionally and ensure that faculty pursue that goal in good faith.
Etablierte Techniken arterieller Rekonstruktionen

Was verstehen wir unter etablierten Techniken? Sprechen wir von ihnen, mussen wir bis auf unsere Urahnen Alexis Carrel und Ernst Jeger zuruckgreifen (Abb. 1 a und b). Noch immer ist mehr von ihnen aktuell im Gebrauch als wir meinen. Worauf wir aber heute besonders achten mussen, sind Erkenntnisse der letzten 20 Jahre — und hier besonders der gravierende Wandel im Hinblick auf die Frage: Wann mussen wir eigentlich eingreifen? Wir haben erkannt — zuletzt auch durch die Arbeiten von Vollmar bewiesen — das die Profunda als wichtige Kollaterale zur Durchblutung ausreicht und beschaftigen uns heutzutage vorwiegend mit den Stadien III und IV (Abb. 2).
Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Amplification of Short Tandem Repeat (STR) Loci Using a Commercial Kit

Commercial multiplex kits capable of amplifying multiple DNA loci in a single tube reaction are essential to solving cases involving DNA evidence in crime labs. In this experiment, a selected commerical short tandem repeat (STR) multiplex kit will be used to amplify previously extracted DNA from buccal swabs and simulated evidence samples using the polymerase chain reaction following the manufacturer’s instructions. The amplified loci will be determined by the kit employed.
Systemic and subcutaneous microvascular oxygen tension in conscious Syrian golden hamsters

Arteriolar and venular oxygen tension distribution was studied in the subcutaneous connective tissue of the chamber window preparation in conscious Syrian golden hamsters as a function of the syste...
Contribution of the known subcellular effects of anesthetics to their negative inotropic effect in intact myocardium.

Various anesthetics have been shown to affect virtually every step involved in myocardial excitation-contraction coupling. What is not known is the relative importance of these multiple effects to the overall negative inotropic response in intact myocardium. We have used isolated rabbit papillary muscles and left atrial muscles to evaluate the relative contribution of anesthetic effects on the transsarcolemmal Ca2+ influx, on the function of the sarcoplasmic reticulum, and on the response of the myofibril.
Biomechanical Evaluation of Hybrid Bicortical and Unicortical Screw and Bone Plate Fixation in Humeral Mid-Shaft Fractures: A Study on Cadaveric Bone

Internal bone plate fixation is currently considered the optimal bone fixation method for open fractures of long bone. This study aims to investigate the effects of non-locking bicortical and unicortical orthopedic bone screws and bone plate configuration on an open fracture of a long bone, the humerus. Eight cadaver humerus bones (n=8) were collected and an open gap, 1.5 cm mid-shaft transverse fracture, was modeled in each one. They were fixated by a 4.5mm non-locking (D.C) plate with two different configurations of 4.5mm non-locking bone screws: Group 1 and Group 2. The orthopedic non-locking bone plate had a total of 7 holes with 3 holes on either side of the fracture site. Therefore, 2 bicortical screws (30 mm long) and 4 unicortical screws (14mm long) were implemented into the fixation in both groups. Group 1 was defined as the bicortical screws being placed close to the fracture gap while Group 2 had the bicortical screws placed further away from fracture gap. Unicortical screws were placed in the other four holes in each setup. In order to complete mechanical evaluation, fatigue and strength of the bone plate construct was assessed by using the Material Testing System (858 Mini Bionix) to simulate cyclic loading and axial failure tests. The cyclic failure test was conducted on the two group bone specimens for 4000 cycles with the cyclic loading being approximately 240N. All bone plate and bone screw setups passed cyclic loading without any problem or failures. The axial failure test was completed by conducting an axial compression force with MTS’s run rate of 0.1mm/sec and was performed on the two bone groups. The average maximum axial failure force was observed at 1064±188 (N) for Group 1 and 1446 ±467 (N) for Group 2. A two-tail t-test revealed that the strength of Group 2 was statistically significant. Thus, it was shown that Group 2’s configuration was the better option for long bone fixation.
Pilot evaluation of sulforaphane in melanoma patients with multiple atypical nevi: Tissue STAT1 and STAT3 as risk markers.

TPS8606 Background: Increasing incidence and the poor prognosis of advanced melanoma argue for prevention efforts. Primary prevention and ultraviolet radiation (UVR) reduction have failed to gain t...
VASCULAR SMOOTH MUSCLE-SPECIFIC ELASTIN DELETION IS A NOVEL GENETIC MODEL FOR NEOINTIMAL HYPERPLASIA

Neointimal hyperplasia causes arterial obstruction, responsible for significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Animal models for neointimal hyperplasia may provide an important platform for preclinical and mechanistic studies. Current animal models for neointimal hyperplasia require surgical
Interrater Reliability of the Pediatric Neuromuscular Recovery Scale for Spinal Cord Injury.

Background: In synergy with the mounting scientific evidence for the capacity of recovery after spinal cord injury (SCI) and training, new evidence-based therapies advancing neuromuscular recovery are emerging. There is a parallel need for outcome instruments that specifically address recovery. The Pediatric Neuromuscular Recovery Scale (Pediatric NRS) is one example with established content validity to assess neuromuscular capacity within task performance. Objective: The objective of this study was to determine interrater reliability of the Pediatric NRS to classify motor capacity in children after SCI. Methods: Pediatric physicians (3), occupational therapists (5), and physical therapists (6) received standardized training in scoring the scale, then rated video assessments of 32 children post SCI, 2-12 years of age, 78% non-ambulatory. Interrater reliability was analyzed using Kendall coefficient of concordance for individual Pediatric NRS items and overall score. Results: The interrater reliability coefficient was determined to be near 1 for the overall Pediatric NRS score (ICC = 0.966; 95% CI, 0.89-0.98). Twelve of 16 individual items exhibited high concordance coefficients (Kendall's W ≥ 0.8) and four items demonstrated concordance coefficients, 0.69. Interrater reliability was equivalent among groups defined by age and neurological level, but lower among non-ambulatory individuals. Conclusion: Strong interrater reliability was demonstrated by pediatric clinicians who scored children with SCI using the Pediatric NRS.