cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Comparison of performance in materials-based occupation, imagery-based occupation, and rote exercise in nursing home residents.

Materials-based occupation, imagery-based occupation, and rote exercise have been examined individually by several researchers. The present study compares all three approaches with one another (i.e., kicking a balloon, imagining kicking a balloon, and a control rote exercise) in nursing home residents. The dependent variable was the number of exercise repetitions. The subjects were 12 women and 3 men between 56 and 93 years of age residing in two nursing homes. All subjects experienced the three approaches but in different orders. One-way analysis of variance for related measures indicated a significant difference among conditions (p = .004). The Tukey procedure (Stevens, 1986) determined that the materials-based occupation condition elicited significantly more repetitions than the other two conditions. The difference between the imagery-based occupation and rote exercise was not statistically significant. These findings support our profession's historical emphasis on the use of physical materials to enhance performance.
Do serum sodium levels predict febrile seizure recurrence within 24 hours

The American Academy of Pediatrics Practice Parameter, The Neurodiagnostic Evaluation of a Child with a First Simple Febrile Seizure, does not recommend serum electrolytes be obtained routinely. Two reports from Europe, however, identified relative hyponatremia as a risk factor for febrile seizure recurrence within 24 hours. If confirmed, this would have potential impact on the approach to these patients. The charts of 175 sequential children ages 6 months to 5 years who presented to the Children's Hospital of Buffalo emergency room in 1999 with generalized seizures lasting less than 15 minutes were retrospectively reviewed. One hundred thirty-six patients were febrile and 39 (control group) were afebrile. Serum electrolytes were performed on all. The mean serum sodium for the 27 children with more than 1 febrile seizure in 24 hours (135.48 mmol/L) did not differ from those 109 febrile children whose seizures did not recur within 24 hours (135.56 mmol/L). Of interest, the mean serum sodium for the 109 children with simple febrile seizures, as well as those with recurrent "simple" febrile seizures were significantly lower than the control group of children with afebrile seizures. These findings reaffirm the recommendation of the American Academy of Pediatrics Practice Parameter to not routinely obtain electrolytes.
The Drosophila Sodium Channel 1 (DSC1): The founding member of a new family of voltage-gated cation channels

It has been nearly three decades since the identification of the Drosophila Sodium Channel 1 (DSC1) gene from Drosophila melanogaster. The orthologs of the DSC1 gene have now been identified in other insect species including BSC1 from Blattella germanica. Functional analyses of DSC1/BSC1 channels in Xenopus oocytes reveal that DSC1 and BSC1 encode voltage-gated cation channels that are more permeable to Ca(2+) than to Na(+). Genetic and electrophysiological analyses show that knockout of the DSC1 gene in D. melanogaster causes behavioral and neurological modifications. In this review, we summarize major findings from recent studies and highlight a unique role of the DSC1 channel, distinct from that of the sodium channel, in regulating membrane excitability and modulating toxicity of pyrethroid insecticides.
Superantigens of gram-positive bacteria: structure-function analyses and their implications for biological activity.

Abstract Just as we thought that we know everything about superantigens, new molecular and structural studies indicate that we have only just begun to unravel the secrets of these fascinating molecules. Recent structure—function analysis of superantigens from Gram-positive bacteria, with emphasis on their interaction with major histocompatibility complex molecules, could help us decipher the role of superantigens in disease, identify host factors that potentiate their effects and design drug that specifically block their activity.
Remarks concerning the asymptotic stability and stabilization of linear delay differential equations

Abstract This note concerns the asymptotic stability for all values of the delays of controlled and uncontrolled linear delay differential equations. In the case of uncontrolled systems it is shown by example that structural considerations must be accounted for. In the controlled case, although arbitrary pole placement may not be possible, there is an algorithm which sometimes reduces the spectrum of the feedback system to one which is finite and is contained in the left half plane.
Mechanism of accelerated gastric emptying of liquids and hyperglycemia in patients with type II diabetes mellitus

Background & Aims: The roles of hyperglycemia in diabetic gastroparesis and gastric delivery in postprandial hyperglycemia of diabetic patients are unclear. The aims of this study were to assess gastric emptying and its relation to postprandial glucose metabolism in patients with asymptomatic non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) and no autonomic neuropathy and to identify motor mechanisms responsible for any accelerated gastric emptying. Methods: Autonomic function, gastric emptying, postprandial glucose metabolism, and hormone levels (glucagon, insulin, cholecystokinin, glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide, neurotensin, and peptide YY) were assessed in healthy volunteers and patients with NIDDM. In a second study, gastric tone and motility were measured in patients with accelerated gastric emptying and in controls. Results: Gastric emptying of solids did not differ in the two groups, but liquids emptied faster in patients with NIDDM (P < 0.02). The rate of entry of ingested glucose into the systemic circulation was similar, but higher postprandial glucagon and lower insulin concentrations led to greater (P < 0.01) postprandial hepatic glucose release. Levels of other enteropeptides, gastric accommodation, and antral motility were similar, but patients with NIDDM had greater proximal gastric phasic contractions than controls (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Excessive hepatic glucose release, not rapid entry of ingested glucose, is the primary cause of postprandial hyperglycemia in patients with NIDDM. Accelerated gastric emptying in patients with nonneuropathic NIDDM is associated with increased proximal stomach phasic contractions.
Solid-state NMR evidence for elastin-like β-turn structure in spider dragline silk

Two-dimensional homo- and heteronuclear solid-state MAS NMR experiments on 13C/15N-proline labeled Argiope aurantia dragline silk provide evidence for an elastin-like β-turn structure for the repetitive Gly-Pro-Gly-X-X motif prevalent in major ampullate spidroin 2 (MaSp2).
Differential geometry for characterizing 3D shape change

In this paper, we present certain computational procedures for measurement of differential geometric quantities of surfaces. A condensed overview of differential geometry is presented and methods for measurement of various quantities are given. Our measurements are made from a stack of pre-segmented image slices, although no such explicit requirements besides knowledge of a set of 3-D points in space is needed by our algorithms. We assume that sufficiently small surface patches can be approximated by a biquadric polynomial. As differential characteristics are local properties, local surface fits are all that will be needed. Once the tangent plane (normal to the surface) is estimated from covariance matrix of the actual coordinate values of a surface patch, any given surface patch may be treated as a height map. This allows for invariant surface fitting where the tangent plane is transformed to algin with the x - y plane. Area, curvature, and principal directions can then be computed from surface fits. Knowledge of differential geometric quantities will allow for matching surface features in applications involving registration of 3-D medical images assuming rigid transformations or for arriving at point correspondences where non-rigid transformations are necessary. In non-rigid motion computation, once initial match vectors are obtained from a bending and stretching model, membrane smoothing with confidences optimizes the flow estimates. To this end, a linear vector equation in terms of components of flow vectors is derived which must be satisfied at all nodes of a finite element grid.© (1992) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Cost-effectiveness of urodynamic testing before surgery for women with pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence.

Abstract Objective: This study was undertaken to compare cost-effectiveness between 2 preoperative testing strategies for women with pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence symptoms. Study Design: We developed decision-analytic models that evaluated the cost-effectiveness of basic office evaluation before surgery in women with prolapse and stress urinary incontinence symptoms and contrasted it with that of urodynamic testing. Costs were obtained from the Federal Register; effectiveness of treatment for urinary incontinence was based on the published literature. Results: The strategies of basic office evaluation and urodynamic testing had the same cure rate of urinary incontinence (96%) after initial and secondary treatment. Under baseline assumptions incremental cost-effectiveness (cost for single extra cure of urinary incontinence) of urodynamic testing was $328,601. According to sensitivity analyses, basic office evaluation was more cost-effective than urodynamic testing when the prevalence of pure detrusor instability was $103. Conclusion: Urodynamic testing before surgery in women with prolapse and stress urinary incontinence symptoms is not cost-effective relative to basic office evaluation. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2000;183:1338-47.)
Methylene blue and pulse oximeterreadings in a patient undergoing transurethral procedure

Abstract Herein we report on a patient with a decrease in the oxygen saturation reading by the pulse oximeter immediately following intravenous injection of methylene blue.
Wildlife tourism in semi-captive settings: a case study of elephant camps in northern Thailand.

Due to improved transportation and communication technology, changing social attitudes towards nature and wildlife, and the physiological benefits of interaction with animals, tourism centred on wildlife in captive and semi-captive settings is becoming increasingly popular. One example of wildlife tourism in a semi-captive setting is the proliferation of ‘elephant camps’ in Thailand, where tourists interact in a variety of ways with domesticated elephants. Though work in elephant camps can be difficult for elephants, tourism provides the only viable legal option for elephant owners and handlers to earn income. This study examines the characteristics, preferences, and values of the visitors of three elephant camps in the vicinity of Chiang Mai in northern Thailand and argues that despite reflecting divergent worldviews on, and practical approaches to, animal rights, each type of camp makes significant contributions to the overall welfare of Thailand's domesticated elephants.
On the concavity of multivariate probability distribution functions

We prove that the multivariate standard normal probability distribution function is concave for large argument values. The method of proof allows for the derivation of similar statements for other types of multivariate probability distribution functions too. The result has important application, e.g., in probabilistic constrained stochastic programming problems.
Clay-mineral variations in the northeastern Nile Delta, as influenced by depositional processes

Abstract A study of five Holocene sections cored in the northeastern Nile Delta, Egypt, indicates that smectite and kaolinite dominate the clay-mineral assemblages, that illite is of lesser importance, and that proportions of chlorite are usually very low. Of note is the poor or lack of correlation among the clay-mineral assemblages and time-related stratigraphic position in the cores, and the moderate to good relationships among mineral assemblages, grain size and geographic location. Of the three major minerals, illite appears most closely related with grain size. We suggest that changes in deposition, particularly those related to transport processes and flocculation effective in former Nile delta-front environments, best explain upcore fluctuations in the proportions of clay minerals observed in the five cores. The percentages of kaolinite in the delta clay-mineral assemblages are generally higher than those recorded in the Nile River and in distal offshore Nile Cone and Levantine Basin regions. This probably resulted from selective entrapment of kaolinite relative to smectite near former coastlines, and by-passing of the latter mineral to sectors beyond the delta-front. Moreover, smectite values are highest in one core located south of Lake Manzala, a site near what may have been the mouth of a former branch (Tanitic) of the Nile which flowed east of the present Damietta branch. Climate and related paleoceanographic conditions fluctuated markedly in the eastern Mediterranean during the Holocene. It is concluded, however, that depositional processes rather than climate have been largely responsible for observed vertical and lateral changes in clay-mineral proportions in deposits accumulating in these sedimentologically active Nile fluviomarine environments.
Clinical, Genetic, and Biophysical Characterization of SCN5A Mutations Associated With Atrioventricular Conduction Block

Background— Three distinct cardiac arrhythmia disorders, the long-QT syndrome, Brugada syndrome, and conduction system disease, have been associated with heterozygous mutations in the cardiac voltage-gated sodium channel α-subunit gene (SCN5A). We present clinical, genetic, and biophysical features of 2 new SCN5A mutations that result in atrioventricular (AV) conduction block. Methods and Results— SCN5A was used as a candidate gene in 2 children with AV block. Molecular genetic studies revealed G to A transition mutations that resulted in the substitution of serine for glycine (G298S) in the domain I S5-S6 loop and asparagine for aspartic acid (D1595N) within the S3 segment of domain IV. The functional consequences of G298S and D1595N were assessed by whole-cell patch clamp recording of recombinant mutant channels coexpressed with the β1 subunit in a cultured cell line (tsA201). Both mutations impair fast inactivation but do not exhibit sustained non-inactivating currents. The mutations also reduce sodium...
Trafficking Patterns of β-Arrestin and G Protein-coupled Receptors Determined by the Kinetics of β-Arrestin Deubiquitination

Agonist-dependent internalization of G protein-coupled receptors via clathrin-coated pits is dependent on the adaptor protein beta-arrestin, which interacts with elements of the endocytic machinery such as AP2 and clathrin. For the beta(2)-adrenergic receptor (beta(2)AR) this requires ubiquitination of beta-arrestin by E3 ubiquitin ligase, Mdm2. Based on trafficking patterns and affinity of beta-arrestin, G protein-coupled receptors are categorized into two classes. For class A receptors (e.g. beta(2)AR), which recycle rapidly, beta-arrestin directs the receptors to clathrin-coated pits but does not internalize with them. For class B receptors (e.g. V2 vasopressin receptors), which recycle slowly, beta-arrestin internalizes with the receptor into endosomes. In COS-7 and human embryonic kidney (HEK)-293 cells, stimulation of the beta(2)AR or V2 vasopressin receptor leads, respectively, to transient or stable beta-arrestin ubiquitination. The time course of ubiquitination and deubiquitination of beta-arrestin correlates with its association with and dissociation from each type of receptor. Chimeric receptors, constructed by switching the cytoplasmic tails of the two classes of receptors (beta(2)AR and V2 vasopressin receptors), demonstrate reversal of the patterns of both beta-arrestin trafficking and beta-arrestin ubiquitination. To explore the functional consequences of beta-arrestin ubiquitination we constructed a yellow fluorescent protein-tagged beta-arrestin2-ubiquitin chimera that cannot be deubiquitinated by cellular deubiquitinases. This "permanently ubiquitinated" beta-arrestin did not dissociate from the beta(2)AR but rather internalized with it into endosomes, thus transforming this class A receptor into a class B receptor with respect to its trafficking pattern. Overexpression of this beta-arrestin ubiquitin chimera in HEK-293 cells also results in enhancement of beta(2)AR internalization and degradation. In the presence of N-ethylmaleimide (an inhibitor of deubiquitinating enzymes), coimmunoprecipitation of the receptor and beta-arrestin was increased dramatically, suggesting that deubiquitination of beta-arrestin triggers its dissociation from the receptor. Thus the ubiquitination status of beta-arrestin determines the stability of the receptor-beta-arrestin complex as well as the trafficking pattern of beta-arrestin.
The NPH-II Helicase Displays Efficient DNA·RNA Helicase Activity and a Pronounced Purine Sequence Bias

The superfamily 2 vaccinia viral helicase nucleoside triphosphate phosphohydrolase-II (NPH-II) exhibits robust RNA helicase activity but typically displays little activity on DNA substrates. NPH-II is thus believed to make primary contacts with backbone residues of an RNA substrate. We report an unusual nucleobase bias, previously unreported in any superfamily 1 or 2 helicase, whereby purines are heavily preferred as components of both RNA and DNA tracking strands. The observed sequence bias allows NPH-II to efficiently unwind a DNA·RNA hybrid containing a purine-rich DNA track derived from the 3′-untranslated region of an early vaccinia gene. These results provide insight into potential biological functions of NPH-II and the role of sequence in targeting NPH-II to appropriate substrates. Furthermore, they demonstrate that in addition to backbone contacts, nucleotide bases play an important role in modulating the behavior of NPH-II. They also establish that processive helicase enzymes can display sequence selectivity.
Long-term Survival with the Right Lower Lobe as the Only Lung Tissue

The case of a patient who underwent left pneumonectomy at 23 years of age is described. When he was 54 years old, he required resection of the right upper and middle lobes. He survived and lived an active life for more than three years with the right lower lobe as his only lung tissue.
Effects of acute “binge” cocaine on mRNA levels of μ opioid receptor and neuropeptides in dopamine D1 or D3 receptor knockout mice

In humans, elevations of mu opioid receptor (MOP-r) binding potential (BP) in the frontal cortex (FC) are associated with cocaine craving during early abstinence. In rats, decreases in dopaminergic (DAergic) transmission in the medial FC are associated with increased cocaine-seeking behavior. DA D1 or D3 receptor homozygous knockout (D1−/− or D3−/−) mice offer the opportunity to test the roles of these specific receptors in regulating MOP-r gene expression in response to cocaine. In the present studies, we found an increase in basal MOP-r mRNA levels in the FC of both D1−/− and D3−/− mice compared to wild type controls, with no change in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) core or caudate–putamen (CPu). Acute “binge” cocaine (3 × 15 mg/kg for 2.5 h) returned FC MOP-r mRNA levels in D1−/− or D3−/− mice to those in wild type controls. In the NAc core, the MOP-r mRNA levels after acute “binge” cocaine were decreased in D1−/− mice while increased in D3−/− mice. In the CPu, however, the MOP-r mRNA levels after acute “binge” cocaine were increased in D1−/− mice while decreased in D3−/− mice. We also found a decrease in basal orexin mRNA levels in the lateral hypothalamus of the D3−/− mice, which was unaltered by acute “binge” cocaine. Together, our findings suggest that: (1) both D1 and D3 receptors are involved in FC MOP-r gene regulation; and (2) D1 and D3 receptors play opposite roles in the effects of cocaine on MOP-r gene regulation differentially in the NAc core or CPu. Synapse 61:50–59, 2007. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Single units and sensation: a neuron doctrine for perceptual psychology?

The problem discussed is the relationship between the firing of single neurons in sensory pathways and subjectively experienced sensations. The conclusions are formulated as the following five dogmas:To understand nervous function one needs to look at interactions at a cellular level, rather than either a more macroscopic or microscopic level, because behaviour depends upon the organized pattern of these intercellular interactions.The sensory system is organized to achieve as complete a representation of the sensory stimulus as possible with the minimum number of active neurons.Trigger features of sensory neurons are matched to redundant patterns of stimulation by experience as well as by developmental processes.Perception corresponds to the activity of a small selection from the very numerous high-level neurons, each of which corresponds to a pattern of external events of the order of complexity of the events symbolized by a word.High impulse frequency in such neurons corresponds to high certainty that t...
Fibroblast and epidermal growth factors: their uses in vivo and in vitro in studies on cell functions and cell transplantation

The events which led to the isolation of the fibroblast growth factor are described. Its impact on the development of new cell models which have been used for studies as diverse as the control of cell proliferation, cell differentiation, and cell transplantation have been reviewed.
The deterministic EOQ with partial backordering: A new approach

Previous authors have shown that if demand that cannot be filled from stock is partially backordered, then using the full-backordering model or assuming that all stockouts will result in lost sales can lead to substantial increases in cost relative to using a model that specifically recognizes the percentage of the stockouts that will be backordered. The models that these authors developed resulted in procedures or equations that are relatively difficult to use. In this paper we take a different approach to modeling the deterministic EOQ with partial backordering that results in equations that are more like the comparable equations for the basic EOQ and its full-backordering extension.
Mass Transport of Polypyridyl Cobalt Complexes in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells with Mesoporous TiO2 Photoanodes

The diffusion of Co(DTB)3n+ (where DTB = 4,4′-di-tert-butyl-2,2′-bipyridine) in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) was investigated. Current vs time experiments reveal that DSSCs with cobalt complex-based mediators display a qualitatively different response to the onset of illumination than do DSSCs with I−/I3−, exhibiting a sharp decline in the initial current over ∼1 s or less. The results of these and other experiments conducted on DSSC sandwich cells are consistent with insufficient mass transport of Co(DTB)33+ to the cathode, resulting in solution polarization and limited photocurrents. Rotating disk electrode voltammetry on Co(DTB)3n+ and I3− in acetonitrile was performed to compare the rates of diffusion within bulk solution and typical mesoporous titania films. After accounting for viscosity differences, it was found that the effective diffusion coefficient of Co(DTB)3n+ through typical titania films in DSSCs is 0.5−3 × 10−7 cm2 s−1, about 1 order of magnitude slower than I3−. This difference may ...
Evolved spacecraft trajectories for low earth orbit

In this paper we use Differential Evolution (DE), with best evolved results refined using a Nelder-Mead optimization, to solve complex problems in orbital mechanics relevant to low Earth orbits (LEO). A class of so-called 'Lambert Problems' is examined. We evolve impulsive initial velocity vectors giving rise to intercept trajectories that take a spacecraft from given initial positions to specified target positions. We seek to minimize final positional error subject to time-of-flight and/or energy (fuel) constraints. We first validate that the method can recover known analytical solutions obtainable with the assumption of Keplerian motion. We then apply the method to more complex and realistic non-Keplerian problems incorporating trajectory perturbations arising in LEO due to the Earth's oblateness and rarefied atmospheric drag. The viable trajectories obtained for these difficult problems suggest the robustness of our computational approach for real-world orbital trajectory design in LEO situations where no analytical solution exists.
Annual Summary of Vital Statistics—1977

Data for this article, as in previous reports1, are drawn principally from the Monthly Vital Statistics Report2,6, published by the National Center for Health Statistics. The international data come from the Demographic Yearbook7 and the quarterly Population and Vital Statistics Report8, both published by the Statistical Office of the United Nations. All the U.S. data for 1977 are estimates by place of occurrence based on a 10% sample of material received in state offices between two dates, one month apart, regardless of when the event occurred. Experience has shown that for the country as a whole the estimate is very close to the subsequent final figures.
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN EXPRESSED SELF-ESTEEM AND ASSUMED SIMILARITY.

(1965). The Relationship Between Expressed Selfesteem and Assumed Similarity. The Journal of Psychology: Vol. 60, No. 2, pp. 181-191.
Long-Term Durability of the Distal Urethral Polypropylene Sling Procedure for Stress Urinary Incontinence: Minimum 5-Year Followup of Surgical Outcome and Satisfaction Determined by Patient Reported Questionnaires

Purpose: We report on the long-term outcomes of the distal urethral polypropylene sling.Materials and Methods: We performed a prospective study of all consecutive patients who underwent a distal urethral polypropylene sling procedure between November of 1999 and April of 2000 for treatment of SUI. Surgical outcome was determined by patient self-assessment, and included symptom, bother and quality of life questionnaires. Physicians were blinded to patient responses. All patients had a minimum 5-year followup. Every patient treated was included in reporting outcomes in the intent to treat analysis.Results: There were 69 patients treated a minimum of 5 years before the analysis. Cases lost to followup were defined as treatment failures. At a minimum followup of 5 years patient determined subjective success rate was 88%. More than 5 years after surgery 72% of patients reported no symptoms of SUI and 74% reported never being bothered by SUI. Patients reported an overall mean improvement of symptoms of 81%, and...
The biochemical and toxicological significance of hypermethionemia: new insights and clinical relevance.

Importance of the field: Disrupted l-methionine (Met) metabolism can lead to hepatic, neurological and cardiovascular dysfunction in humans. Aberrant methyl group flux likely contributes to the development of these pathologies, but when patients also become hypermethionemic, additional toxicological mechanisms may be relevant. Areas covered in this review: Following a discussion of the causes of hypermethionemia in humans, evidence for the toxicological roles and clinical significance of the Met transmethylation (TM), transamination (TA) and sulfoxidation (SO) pathways will be presented. What the reader will gain: Recent data from freshly isolated mouse hepatocytes (FIMHs) confirmed previous in vivo results in rodents that Met TM is a detoxification pathway while Met TA leads to toxicity. Gender-related differences in Met accumulation and metabolism in FIMHs correlated with gender differences in toxicity. Data obtained from FIMHs also implicated Met SO in Met metabolism and toxicity. Currently, little is ...
Acute phase proteins and total leukocyte counts in blood of mares with experimentally induced ascending placentitis

Currently ascending placentitis, an important cause of late pregnancy loss, is diagnosed by clinical signs (ie premature mammary gland development and vulvar discharge) and transrectal ultrasonography (ie measurement of the combined thickness of uterus and placenta, placental detachment, fluid accumulation). Acute phase proteins (APP) are produced and secreted by the liver in response to acute inflammatory stimuli, and we hypothesized that APP are elevated in mares with placentitis. The objectives of this study were to: (i) compare plasma concentrations of APP and total blood leukocyte counts (WBC) in mares with experimentally induced ascending placentitis and gestationally aged-matched control mares, and (ii) describe SAA (serum amyloid A) and HP (haptoglobin) concentrations in normal pre-foaling mares. In study I, mares with normal pregnancies (260-280d of gestation) were assigned to (1) a control group with (n1⁄47) or without trans-abdominal ultrasound-guided fetal fluid sampling (TAUGFFS; n1⁄48) and (2) a treatment group with experimentally induced ascending placentitis with (n 1⁄47) or without TAUGFFS (n1⁄48). Placentitis was induced via intracervical inoculation of Streptococcus equi subspecies zooepidemicus. TAUGFFS was performed at 0, 5 and 12 days post inoculation (DPI) or until abortion. Blood samples were obtained at inoculation/initial TAUGFFS (day1⁄40) and then daily until abortion or for 12 DPI. Concentrations of SAA and HP were determined by an immunoturbidimetric assay and by a colorimetric assay, respectively. In study I, a subset of mares (n1⁄417) were examined to determine leukocyte counts and circulating fibrinogen. In study II,
Docking and electron transfer between cytochrome c2 and the photosynthetic reaction center

Abstract Electron transfer between the proteins cytochrome c2 (cytc2) and the photosynthetic reaction center (RC) was studied using the pathways model of Beratan and Onuchic. To investigate the protein structure dependence of this electron transfer reaction, we separated the electronic coupling decay between electron donor and acceptor into three parts: (i) the coupling from the cytochrome heme to the surface of the cytochrome, (ii) the coupling from the RC surface to the bacteriochlorophyll dimer, and (iii) the coupling from the surface of the cytochrome to the surface of the reaction center. Calculating the coupling between the surface amino acids and the redox center allows the simple estimate of inter-protein electronic coupling, and, for a given docked structure, provides a functional criterion for evaluating that structure. The strongest heme to special pair electron transfer pathway in Rps. viridis (an RC with fixed heme-special pair structure) included surface residues on the cytochrome and RC (when each was treated as a separate protein), although it did not involve the most strongly coupled surface atoms of the RC. To examine the effect of docking orientation on electron transfer in Rb. sphaeroides, in which the cytochrome is not bound to the RC, we generated surface coupling maps of the electronic coupling between the redox sites and solvent exposed atoms in each protein. These maps were compared to individual pathways calculated for two docked cytc2/RC structures, one based on electrostatic complementarity, the other based on maximizing electronic coupling. The electronic coupling between donor and acceptor for these two docked structures was remarkably similar, suggesting that efficient electron transfer can be obtained from very different docked orientations of the cytochrome. Other factors influencing intermolecular electron transfer are discussed.
Understanding the Aging Decision Maker

From his early 60s to his late 70s, Alan Greenspan was chairman of the Federal Reserve, the central bank of the United States of America, and thus one of the most important decision makers in American economic policy. Although not without critics, many economists agree that during his almost 20 years in office Greenspan managed the Federal Reserve effectively and was able to deal successfully with various stock market crises. Moreover, Greenspan remained a sought-after expert after stepping down from his position as chairman, being appointed to influential positions in major financial institutions. Alan Greenspan is a prototypical case of successful decision making in older age and represents a particularly encouraging example of successful aging at a time where more and more people are asked to make important decisions well into old age.
Consistent nonparametric hypothesis tests with an application to Slutsky symmetry

Abstract A general consistent, nonparametric testing technique is applied to U.K. survey data to test Slutsky symmetry. This paper first provides a set of low-level technical assumptions that yield root-N convergence of averages of functions of both kernel estimators and their derivatives. The results are then used to construct nonparametric moment-based tests, including the extension to consistent tests i.e., tests that asymptotically have correct size and have power against all relevant alternatives. The nonparametric tests are compared to ordinary parametric tests from the QUAIDS (Quadratic Almost Ideal Demand System) functional form.
ECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVE EFFLUENT TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR POND PRODUCTION OF HYBRID STRIPED BASS IN AURORA, NORTH CAROLINA

The focus of this article is the post-harvest treatment of effluent from hybrid striped bass (HSB) pond aquaculture to meet effluent discharge standards for Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD; 5 mg/L) and chlorophyll-α (40 μg/L) established by the North Carolina Division of Water Quality (DWQ). The specific application is to HSB pond aquaculture in Aurora, North Carolina. A variety of effluent treatment options were proposed and evaluated based on their efficacy in reaching the new standards on a 28.8-ha (72-acre) HSB farm. The economic feasibility of the proposed options ranged from positive $499 to negative $121,691 using the partial budget methodology. Our results indicate that retaining water on-farm for subsequent production cycles instead of discharging had the highest positive impact ($499) on annual farm budgets and may reduce production costs without compromising fish yields. Application of effluents onto existing or newly planted trees was also an attractive alternative because of the possible gener...
Acceleration of the rate of ethanol fermentation by addition of nitrogen in high tannin grain sorghum

In this communication, the authors show that accelerated rates of ethanol production, comparable to sorghum varieties containing low levels of tannins and to corn, can occur without the removal of the tannins. The basis of the inhibition appears to be a lack of sufficient nitrogen in the mash for protein synthesis required to support an accelerated fermentative metabolism in Saccharomyces. No inhibition of the enzymes used for starch hydrolysis was found.
Low-Loss Niobium-Tin Compound for Superconducting Alternating-Current Power Transmission Applications

A Nb3Sn superconductor has been fabricated in rods and tapes by the interaction of the tin contained in a copper-tin alloy with niobium which had been in contact with the alloy material. This conductor has lower alternating-current (60 hertz) losses than any presently available commercial products.
Moderators of the confidence-accuracy correlation in face recognition: The role of information processing and base-rates

Forty-four undergraduates were shown one set of slides of persons in the beginning of the session and a second set of slides at the end. During the second slide presentation subjects gave recognition judgements for each slide and confidence judgements for each decision. The disguise of the to-be-recognized (TBR) persons was varied and the distinctiveness and attractiveness of the TBR persons were assessed. The relation between subjects' confidence judgements and their face recognition accuracy was stronger if the TBR persons were not disguised and if the TBR persons had distinctive characteristics. Attractiveness was unrelated to face recognition accuracy. Base-rate information, which referred to the number of persons the subjects expected to recognize, affected decision criterion but had no effect on confidence judgements.
The distribution of tritium in fatty acids synthesized from tritiated glucose and tritiated water by rat adipose tissue.

Abstract Fatty acids synthesized by rat epididymal fat-pad slices in the presence of [1-3H]glucose, [3-3H]glucose and tritiated water were degraded for the localization of tritium in the molecule. 75% of the tritium from [1-3H]glucose and 85% from [3-3H]glucose was present on the odd carbons. The incorporation of 15% of the tritium from [3-3H] glucose in the even positions was unexpected. Tritium from 3H2O was incorporated to the same extent in the odd and even positions of the carbon chain. The presence of tritium from water in the odd positions confirms the participation of DPNH hydrogen in reductive fatty acid synthesis in the intact adipose tissue cell. The results with 3H2O and [1-3H]glucose resemble those previously reported for liver and suggest that the mechanisms of fatty acid synthesis are essentially similar in the two tissues.
Population structure of the pecan nut casebearer Acrobasis nuxvorella throughout its geographical distribution

1 The pecan nut casebearer Acrobasis nuxvorella Neunzig (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) is an important, monophagous pest of pecan Carya illinoinensis (Fagales: Juglandaceae). 2 This pest is native from Louisiana west to the eastern edge of New Mexico and north to Illinois in the U.S.A. and as far west as Chihuahua and south to Oaxaca in Mexico. 3 Recently, this pest has expanded beyond the native range of pecan into regions where pecan has been introduced for cultivation. 4 Amplified fragment length polymorphism markers were used to determine the population genetic structure of this insect pest across its current geographical distribution. 5 Population genetic analyses indicate a great degree of genetic structure in the pecan nut casebearer across its geographical distribution, with genetically distinct populations occurring in those areas where the pecan nut casebearer is not native but has been invasive.
A U(n) generalization of Ramanujan's 1Ψ1 summation

Abstract In this paper we derive a U(n) generalization of Ramanujan's 1Ψ1 summation directly from a recent U(n) multiple series refinement of the q-binomial theorem. We also obtain a new generalization of the Macdonald identities for A(1)l.
Migration of lymphocytes through endothelial cell monolayers: Augmentation by interferon-γ

During normal lymphocyte recirculation and in chronic inflammation, lymphocytes emigrate from blood into the perivascular tissue. The mechanism of lymphocyte migration through the endothelial cell (EC) layer of blood vessels is poorly understood. To identify factors that control lymphocyte emigration, a method has been developed to measure human peripheral blood lymphocyte migration through monolayers of human umbilical vein EC and into nitrocellulose (NC) filters located below the EC monolayer. Counts were made of lymphocytes that had migrated into the NC filter using a particle counter. T lymphocytes attached to and migrated through EC monolayers in a T-cell-number- and time-dependent fashion. Migration required viable EC since lymphocytes failed to migrate through formaldehyde-fixed EC monolayers or monolayers of dermal fibroblasts. Interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) markedly augmented the migration in a dose- and time-dependent manner when preincubated with the EC. When T lymphocytes were pretreated with IFN-gamma, no increase in migration was observed. Finally, IFN-gamma augmented the migration of T cells prebound to the EC, indicating that the IFN-gamma-enhanced migration was not due to increased binding of T cells to the EC, but rather to an action on the EC to facilitate subsequent migration.
Variations of the infrared spectra with the nature and structure of the rare earth metal halides

Abstract The i.r. absorption spectra for the halides of La, Nd, Sm, Eu, Gd, Er, and Yb have been measured over the frequency range 4000-200 cm−1. Frequencies for the anhydrous rare-earth metal halides except the fluorides and lanthanum trichloride are reported for the first time. Some indications of a dependency of the i.r. spectra on the structure of the halides are pointed out. Two of the halides exhibited a characteristic band pattern: 350, 275 and 215 cm−1 for fluorides; 360, 280 and 210 cm−1 for chlorides. These bands varied only slightly with the nature of the rare-earth metal. The characteristic bands due to H2O are observed in most of the halides. Spectra were also measured for the dihalides of Eu(II). The fluorides could be obtained in the absolutely anhydrous state. However the other halides, although yielding analytical results which indicated 99·8 per cent purity, always exhibited i.r. spectra containing water bands. In addition to the familiar water bands at 1600 cm−1 and in the region 3600-3000 cm−1, two bands commonly occurred at 1400 and in the region 1150-1000 cm−1. Such bands are characteristic of D2O and also have been cited as evidence for polywater.
Follicular fluid hydrogen peroxide and lipid hydroperoxide in bovine antral follicles of various size, atresia, and dominance status.

Purpose To avoid inducing a state of oxidative stress (OS), assisted reproductive technologies (ART) must maintain a balance of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidants during the in vitro culture of oocytes. However, oocyte requirements and tolerance thresholds for ROS during in vivo development are still unclear. Previous studies have examined ROS levels in follicular fluid (FF) using pooled samples or according to follicle size. This study sought to examine two OS markers, lipid hydroperoxides (LPO) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), in FF of individually sampled follicles from bovine ovary pairs according to follicle size, atresia, and dominance status.
Enhanced evaluation of treadmill tests by means of scoring based on multivariate analysis and its clinical application: a study of 608 patients.

Abstract Six hundred eight patients being evaluated for chest pain who did not have valvular disease, cardiomyopathy, left ventricular hypertrophy or bundle branch block, and were not receiving digitalis, had treadmill tests and coronary angiograms. In 351, various exercise variables were correlated by multivariate analysis to coronary artery disease (CAD). In men, significant variables were: (1) maximal heart rate achieved In women, maximal heart rate
Early Identification and Treatment of Communication and Swallowing Deficits in Parkinson Disease

Parkinson disease (PD) is a complex, progressive, neurodegenerative disorder that leads to a wide range of deficits including fine and gross sensorimotor impairment, autonomic dysfunction, mood disorders, and cognitive decline. Traditionally, the focus for diagnosis and treatment has been on sensorimotor impairment related to dopamine depletion. It is now widely recognized, however, that PD-related pathology affects multiple central nervous system neurotransmitters and pathways. Communication and swallowing functions can be impaired even in the early stages, significantly affecting health and quality of life. The purpose of this article is to review the literature on early intervention for communication and swallowing impairment in PD. Overarching themes were that (1) studies and interpretation of data from studies in early PD are limited; (2) best therapy practices have not been established, in part due to the heterogeneous nature of PD; and (3) as communication and swallowing problems are pervasive in PD, further treatment research is essential.
Bifurcating Continua in Infinite Dimensional Dynamical Systems and Applications to Differential Equations

Abstract General homotopy continuation and bifurcation results are proved for a class of semiflows. These results are applied to ordinary differential equations and to systems of reaction-diffusion equations.
Serious adverse events following receipt of trivalent inactivated influenza vaccine in Korea, 2003–2010

Abstract Background Vaccination is very important for the control and prevention of influenza, yet no vaccine is perfectly safe. Little is known, however, about influenza vaccination-associated serious adverse events following immunization (AEFI). This study aimed to identify background information on influenza vaccination-related serious AEFI in Korea. Methods Retrospective review of data from Korea National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program from 2003 to 2010. Results Distribution of approximately 75 million doses of influenza vaccine by end of 2010 gave rise to 42 potentially serious AEFI. In all, nine Guillain-Barre syndrome, eighteen other neurologic events, eight local events, and seven miscellaneous events were included. 62% of these events were identified to have unlike causal association with the vaccine. The reporting rate of serious AEFI ranged from 0.006 to 0.07 cases per 100,000 distributed doses of the vaccine. Conclusion GBS was the most common influenza vaccination-related serious AEFI. Enhancing post-vaccination GBS surveillance may increase public confidence in future routine and pandemic influenza vaccination.
Performance of northern red oak enrichment plantings in naturally regenerating Southern Appalachian hardwood stands

The limited success of methods to naturally regenerate northern red oak (Quercus rubra L.) has increased the use of artificial techniques to improve overall oak composition. Enrichment plantings are often recommended as a means to supplement species composition within the existing natural reproduction. Previous enrichment efforts have often resulted in low survival and poor growth, generally due to poor planting stock quality and a lack of competition control. In this study, high quality northern red oak seedlings were established on four recently harvested sites in western North Carolina using one of four competition control treatments (untreated, year 1 control, year 2 control or a weed mat) in a 1.2 × 1.2 m area around each seedling with or without a soil fertility amendment. The 3 year results show that competition control and fertilization treatments had few positive impacts on survival and growth of the planted seedlings. These results suggest that either the treatment area was insufficient to adequately release the seedlings, or other factors like belowground competition from existing advance reproduction and/or stump sprouts may be important determinants of the overall success of northern red oak enrichment plantings on recently harvested sites.
Clinical applications of myocardial contrast echocardiography.

Abstract Myocardial contrast echocardiography is a new technique that uses microbubbles of air in conjunction with simultaneously performed 2-dimensional echocardiographic imaging. Currently, it can be used to determine myocardial perfusion in the cardiac catheterization laboratory and the operating room. For myocardial contrast echocardiography to find a broader clinical application for the assessment of myocardial perfusion, it will be necessary to opacity the myocardium from venous injection of contrast in humans. In this regard, enhancement in bubble engineering, optimization of echocardiographic systems (greater sensitivity and dynamic range), and availability of digital image enhancement techniques will be required for myocardial contrast echocardiography to realize its full clinical potential by the year 2000.