cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Crystallographic Analysis of a Sex-Specific Enhancer Element: Sequence-Dependent DNA Structure, Hydration, and Dynamics

The crystal structure of a sex-specific enhancer element is described at a resolution of 1.6 A. This 16-bp site, designated Dsx(A), functions in the regulation of a genetic switch between male and female patterns of gene expression in Drosophila melanogaster. Related sites are broadly conserved in metazoans, including in the human genome. This enhancer element is unusually rich in general regulatory sequences related to DNA recognition by multiple classes of eukaryotic transcription factors, including the DM motifs, homeodomain, and high mobility group box. Whereas free DNA is often crystallized as an A-form double helix, Dsx(A) was crystallized as B-DNA and thus provides a model for the prebound conformation of diverse regulatory DNA complexes. Sequence-dependent conformational properties that extend features of shorter B-DNA fragments with respect to double helical parameters, groove widths, hydration, and binding of divalent metal ions are observed. The structure also exhibits a sequence-dependent pattern of isotropic thermal B-factors, suggesting possible variation in the local flexibility of the DNA backbone. Such fluctuations are in accord with structural variability observed in prior B-DNA structures. We speculate that sites of intrinsic flexibility within a DNA control element provide hinges for its protein-directed reorganization in a transcriptional preinitiation complex.
Rabies Virus (RV) Glycoprotein Expression Levels Are Not Critical for Pathogenicity of RV

Previous comparisons of different rabies virus (RV) strains suggested an inverse relationship between pathogenicity and the amount of glycoprotein produced in infected cells. In order to provide more insight into this relationship, we pursued an experimental approach that allowed us to alter the glycoprotein expression level without altering the glycoprotein sequence, thereby eliminating the contribution of amino acid changes to differences in viral virulence. To this end, we constructed an infectious clone of the highly pathogenic rabies virus strain CVS-N2c and replaced its cognate glycoprotein gene with synthetic versions in which silent mutations were introduced to replace wild-type codons with the most or least frequently used synonymous codons. A recombinant N2c variant containing the fully codon-optimized G gene and three variants carrying a partially codon-deoptimized G gene were recovered on mouse neuroblastoma cells and shown to express 2- to 3-fold more and less glycoprotein, respectively, than wild-type N2c. Pathogenicity studies in mice revealed the WT-N2c virus to be the most pathogenic strain. Variants containing partially codon-deoptimized glycoprotein genes or the codon-optimized gene were less pathogenic than WT-N2c but still caused significant mortality. We conclude that the expression level of the glycoprotein gene does have an impact on pathogenicity but is not a dominant factor that determines pathogenicity. Thus, strategies such as changes in codon usage that aim solely at altering the expression level of the glycoprotein gene do not suffice to render a pathogenic rabies virus apathogenic and are not a viable and safe approach for attenuation of a pathogenic strain.
From Argentina to Zambia: a world-wide test of economic voting

Abstract Cross-national research on economic voting has to contend with wide variation in political context. How can voters be expected to translate economic preferences into partisan choices under such varying circumstances? Rather than specify all the components of the political context, we propose a simple rule consistent with the retrospective theory of voting: voters key on the major party in government. We conduct a test of that hypothesis, using the broadest possible universe of countries currently holding competitive elections. The results show that election-year economic growth influences the vote of the major party in office, but fails to have an effect on the combined votes cast for all incumbent parties. Diagnostic checks confirm that the electoral effect of economic growth is robust and not vulnerable to either multicollinearity or heteroscedasticity. The vast disparities in political context notwithstanding, voters around the world prove capable of practicing a standard form of economic voting. They do so by holding the major incumbent party accountable for recent economic performance.
Music on the edge: Busking at the Cliffs of Moher and the commodification of a musical landscape

The Cliffs of Moher is one of the most popular tourist sites in all of Ireland, and buskers have been playing traditional music there for generations. The site and traditional music have each becom...
Critical thinking in nursing: Teaching to diverse groups

Abstract The demographics of many classrooms are changing as a result of immigration and globalization. More adults are also seeking higher education and choosing nursing as a second career. With these changes in demographics, educators are now faced with the challenge of meeting the needs of a diverse student population. Teaching critical thinking skills can enhance education and patient care. In a culturally diverse population, inclusion of cultural values and beliefs might help generate alternative possibilities, which is a key component of critical thinking. The relationship between critical thinking and incorporation of cultural values in nursing education is explored in this article.
CORRECTIONS TO THE GAHAN AND ROHWER LECTOTYPES OF PROVANCHER'S ICHNEUMONIDAE (HYMENOPTERA)

In June, 1938, I was able to spend eight days at the Public Museum of Quebec studying the Provancher collection of Ichneumonidae. Mr. Pierre-Georges Roy (Director of the Museum), Mr. Paul Rainville (Assistant Director), and Mr. Noel-M. Comeau (Curator of Insects), were very cordial and gave me facilities and help that made it possible to accomplish much more than could otherwise have been done.
Photosynthetic microbial desalination cells (PMDCs) for clean energy, water and biomass production

Current microbial desalination cell (MDC) performances are evaluated with chemical catalysts such as ferricyanide, platinum catalyzed air-cathodes or aerated cathodes. All of these methods improve power generation potential in MDCs, however, they are not preferable for large scale applications due to cost, energy and environmental toxicity issues. In this study, performance of microbial desalination cells with an air cathode and an algae biocathode (Photosynthetic MDC – PMDC) were evaluated, both under passive conditions (no mechanical aeration or mixing). The results indicate that passive algae biocathodes perform better than air cathodes and enhance COD removal and utilize treated wastewater as the growth medium to obtain valuable biomass for high value bioproducts. Maximum power densities of 84 mW m−3 (anode volume) or 151 mW m−3 (biocathode volume) and a desalination rate of 40% were measured with 0.9 : 1 : 0.5 volumetric ratios of anode, desalination and algae biocathode chambers respectively. This first proof-of-concept study proves that the passive mechanisms can be beneficial in enhancing the sustainability of microbial desalination cells.
Seroprevalence of antibody to varicella among Somali refugees.

OBJECTIVES To determine the seroprevalence of varicella antibody among recent Somali refugees living in Olmsted County, Minnesota, and to estimate the risk of varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infection in this group. SUBJECTS AND METHODS We obtained blood samples from the study subjects, along with demographic information, immunization records, and vaccine-preventable disease history. Serum samples were tested using a whole-virus IgG VZV-specific commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit. This study was completed in 1998. RESULTS Overall, 200 Somali refugees, comprising 33 extended families, were interviewed, with 193 providing adequate blood samples. Thirty-five subjects (18%) were seronegative for varicella. Males had a significantly higher seronegativity rate (25% [n=23]) compared with females (12% [n=12]; P =.02); however, this association disappeared after adjustment for age and varicella infection history. Five percent (5/92) of adults were seronegative compared with 30% (30/101) of all children ( P P CONCLUSION These results demonstrate a high prevalence of varicella seronegativity among Somali refugees who have immigrated to an endemic area. We recommend instituting improved education regarding varicella among Somali communities and increasing vaccine uptake or routine testing for serum varicella antibody to prevent VZV-related morbidity and mortality, particularly in adolescents, adult refugees, and women of childbearing age.
Adverse Reaction to a Dietary Supplement in an Elderly Patient

OBJECTIVETo describe the case of an elderly patient who experienced hepatic enzyme elevations and symptoms of hepatitis associated with the administration of a dietary supplement.CASE SUMMARYA 92-year-old white woman with no history of hepatic disease developed jaundice and increased confusion associated with increased hepatic enzymes. The hepatitis panel, abdominal ultrasound, and antinuclear antibody screen indicated no abnormalities. A drug regimen review revealed that the patient was receiving a dietary supplement, Nutrilite Double X Multivitamin–Multimineral. Following discontinuation of the supplement, the patient's symptoms resolved and the hepatic enzymes decreased or returned to the reference range at evaluations occurring 1 week and 1 month after intervention. An objective causality assessment revealed this to be a probable adverse drug event.DISCUSSIONWhile the association of certain herbal preparations with hepatotoxicity has been demonstrated, the potential for this adverse effect is easily o...
Third-hand smoke as a potential intervention message for promoting smoke-free homes in low-income communities

Third-hand smoke (THS) is the residual tobacco smoke contaminant that remains after a cigarette is extinguished. It can react with the indoor air pollutant nitrous acid to produce a carcinogen. Understanding perceptions of THS is critical, as it may inform the development of messages for promoting smoke-free homes. Six focus groups, of smokers and non-smokers, with 39 participants were conducted. Participants were asked whether they knew about THS and its harmful effects and whether it would motivate people to make their homes smoke free. They also answered questions about THS beliefs. Participants were mostly African-American, female and high-school graduate or General Educational Development (GED) recipients. Most of the participants had not heard about it and did not know what THS was. When asked about the dangers of THS, some participants made references to children indicating that they can easily inhale or ingest the residue leading to harmful effects. Almost all of the participants stated that they thought being educated about THS would motivate people to make their homes smoke free. There is a need for more scientific understanding of the potential dangers of THS and subsequent education about its exposure and harm to children and possibly adults.
Visualizing hidden heterogeneity in isogenic populations of C. elegans

Age-specific mortality levels off at advanced ages in many species; one explanation for this phenomenon is provided by the population heterogeneity theory. Although mortality at advanced ages can be well fit by heterogeneity models, population heterogeneity remains theoretical, lacking much direct evidence to support the existence of unobserved heterogeneity. Here, we provide direct evidence to support the heterogeneity theory by using isogenic population of worms of Caenorhabditis elegans. We measure the ability of individual worms to respond to a heat stress using an HSP-16.2 promoter that has been attached to GFP, a fluorescent marker that can be assessed in living animals. Worms differ substantially in their response; worms with high response have a long lifespan, and worms with low response to stress have a short life. Each of these classes results from a mix of two distinct, heterogeneous classes of worms and the addition of more classes does not result in a better fit.
Serial Electrocardiographic Changes in Treated Hypertensive Patients with Reference to Voltage Criteria, Mean QRS Vectors, and the QRS-T Angle

Serial changes in voltage, QRS vectors, and QRS-T angles were studied in 44 patients who had shown improvement in their electrocardiograms during treatment for hypertension. Changes were observed in a number of electrocardiographic voltage criteria often used in the study of left ventricular hypertrophy. This is consistent with a change in the magnitude of the mean QRS vector and its reflection on a variety of ECG leads even if pretreatment records were normal. Improvement also occurred in the mean T vectors and the QRS-T angle. It is proposed that serial changes in the ECG might be of greater value than pretreatment abnormalities in diagnosing the disorder of cardiac structure or function that occurs in hypertension.
The Prehospital Care of Children With Special Health Care Needs

There is an ever-growing population of children with special health care needs ranging from children with pervasive developmental disorders to technology-dependent children. The prehospital provider, local emergency medical services agencies, and the state and federal entities involved in the prehospital care of children require focused programs to ensure safe and effective care and transport of these children. This article discusses the key factors involved in the prehospital care of these children including the use of registries to identify these patients in the community, the use of caregivers and emergency information forms as resources, and the existence of specialized training programs to educate prehospital providers about the special care needs of this population. Additional discussion includes the importance of medical homes for these children and special considerations regarding their transport. Finally, we will discuss the issues that arise in this community during a disaster and show how all the previously discussed aspects of care can be integrated into a comprehensive disaster plan.
Plugging the “whole”: librarians as interdisciplinary facilitators

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine some of the obstacles to interdisciplinary research and examine some ways that academic librarians can help to overcome them.Design/methodology/approach – A broad review of the literature of the social sciences was reviewed for descriptions of difficulties that interdisciplinary researchers encounter. General developments in librarianship from library literature were then applied as a starting point for discussing ways that librarians can provide important services to interdisciplinary scholars.Findings – Librarians, as “meta‐scholars”, can provide useful services to scholars engaging in interdisciplinary research.Social implications – Interdisciplinary research has shown great potential for problem‐solving, being focused more on a problem than with disciplinary distinctions. This is a worthy area for librarians to target with their skills and services.Originality/value – This is a discussion of ways that librarians can break into new roles and responsibil...
SHUBNIKOV--DE HAAS EFFECT AND MAGNETIC BREAKDOWN IN Be.

Magnetic breakdown in the basal plane of Be was investigated in fields up to 150 kG. Geometrical aspects of the open orbits caused by breakdown are discussed. An estimate of 30 kG for the characteristic breakdown field is obtained by applying the theory of Falicov et al. Shubnikov-de Haas frequency measurements are reported for the central-cigar cross section. These measurements are relevant to a recent conjecture that the Onsager-Lifshitz quantization scheme may be violated in the presence of magnetic breakdown.
Theoretical approach to wind elbow structure

A mathematical solution for the problem of winding one of the most commonly produced structures in piping, that is elbow fitting, is presented in this article. Fiber stable path is generated over the elbow geometry using either a geodesic or a nongeodesic path. The feed-eye movement of the filament-winding machine is calculated. A numerical example is given for geodesic and nongeodesic windings to clarify the solution. Two criteria are applied: (1) fixed plane for the feed-eye motion, and (2) constant fiber length from the feed-eye to the mandrel surface. In nonaxisymetric structure, there is no one general solution to the problem. Each nonaxisymetric structure has to be studied separately using the same approach presented in this study.
Massive extinction treatment attenuates the renewal effect

Two experiments with rats as subjects investigated whether massive extinction can attenuate the renewal effect. Experiment 1 investigated whether moderate or massive extinction could prevent the return of conditioned responding following Pavlovian conditioning in Context A, extinction in Context B, and subsequent testing in Context C (i.e., ABC renewal). Experiment 2 examined whether massive extinction could prevent renewal following training in Context A, extinction in Context B, and testing in Context A (i.e., ABA renewal). Both experiments observed attenuated renewal following massive, but not moderate extinction. Results are discussed in terms of contemporary theories of extinction.
Changes in breeding status are associated with rapid bill darkening in male red‐backed fairy‐wrens Malurus melanocephalus

In many animals, an individual’s social environment and status can change quickly and unpredictably, suggesting an advantage for signals capable of responding to these changes. However, many signaling traits are fixed for relatively long periods. In birds, for example, most plumage-based signals are constrained by molt and unable to respond to sudden changes in social environment. Soft parts, conversely, are vascularized and may provide an alternative signaling system that can be updated relatively quickly. In this study, the effects of changes in breeding status are documented for a putative plumage-based signal, plumage brightness, and a putative soft part signal, bill darkness, in the red-backed fairywren Malurus melanocephalus. Males that switched from unpaired helper to paired breeder within a breeding season developed significantly darker bills within three weeks of the switch relative to males that did not change status. There was no clear corresponding change in plumage brightness, though the data suggests that changes in plumage brightness are at least possible. These results suggest that bill color is a socially mediated trait capable of responding rapidly to changes in breeding status, and it is proposed that the importance of soft parts as labile signals in birds may be currently under-appreciated.
Misspecified Mean Function Regression Making Good Use of Regression Models That Are Wrong

There are over three decades of largely unrebutted criticism of regression analysis as practiced in the social sciences. Yet, regression analysis broadly construed remains for many the method of ch...
Serving the barbarian to preserve the dharma: The ideology and training of a clerical elite in Peninsular India c. 1300–1800

The last six centuries saw the emergence of major empires that dominated every part of the world. Inevitably then, these imperial formations governed diverse and polyglot peoples. They also developed complex systems of governance that deployed unprecedented numbers of scribes and accountants, often drawn from groups culturally distinct from the military elites. Literati serving Western empires have been much studied of late; but the phenomenon did not originate with them. This article examines one such prominent group—the Brahmans of peninsular India—through five centuries. It explores little-known aspects of their professional training. It then analyses how they rose to a dominance that persisted well into the colonial era and deeply impacted the contemporary politics of India to the present day.
Evaluation of the applicability of the dual-domain mass transfer model in porous media containing connected high-conductivity channels

[1] This paper evaluates the dual-domain mass transfer (DDMT) model to represent transport processes when small-scale high-conductivity (K) preferential flow paths (PFPs) are present in a homogenous porous media matrix. The effects of PFPs upon solute transport were examined through detailed numerical experiments involving different realizations of PFP networks, PFP/matrix conductivity contrasts varying from 10:1 to 200:1, different magnitudes of effective conductivities, and a range of molecular diffusion coefficients. Results suggest that the DDMT model can reproduce both the near-source peak and the downstream low-concentration spreading observed in the embedded dendritic network when there are large conductivity contrasts between high-K PFPs and the low-K matrix. The accuracy of the DDMT model is also affected by the geometry of PFP networks and by the relative significance of the diffusion process in the network-matrix system.
Traveler Types And Activation Theory: A Comparison Of Two Models

This study examined the extent to which Plog's model of allocentrism/psychocentrism and energy traveler types could be explained using Fiske and Maddi's activation theory. Survey data were analyzed using the method of linear structural relations (LISREL). Results suggest that the allocentrism and energy of dimensions may be intercorrelated. Based on these results, a revised typology of travelers is proposed.
The Evolution of the Theoretical Foundations of Punctuated Equilibrium Theory in Public Policy

Punctuated equilibrium theory in public policy replicated from biological punctuated equilibrium theory has concluded that public policies alternate between stasis and punctuation. However, recent research on Pacific Northwest forest policy, U.S. state tobacco policy, and U.S federal auto efficiency policy have found no punctuations despite an attempt to do so. What is the efficacy of using biological punctuated equilibrium theory to also explain punctuated equilibrium in public policy? Significant differences exist between biological and public policy punctuated equilibrium theory including time frames for change, what constitutes outside disturbances of equilibrium, venues of punctuated equilibrium, levels of analysis for change, and patterns of change. Most policy research on punctuation has focused on the “tone” of media coverage related to change. Some recent studies concluding no punctuation occurred have focused on government action or inaction. Proving strong inference in scientific research requires a clear and viable syllogism linked to appropriate methodology. Both of these crucial elements are now in question in punctuated equilibrium research in public policy.
Wavelength-tunable 40-GHz picosecond harmonically mode-locked fiber laser source

We demonstrate a novel 40-GHz mode-locked fiber laser that utilizes a single active device to provide both gain and mode-locking. The laser produces pulses as short as 2.2 ps, is tunable over a 27-nm band centered at 1553 nm, and exhibits long-term stability without cavity-length feedback control. The pulse train at 1556 nm was used in a 40-Gb/s transmission experiment over 45 km with a low 0.4-dB power penalty.
Identification of an Archaeal Type II Isopentenyl Diphosphate Isomerase in Methanothermobacter thermautotrophicus

Isopentenyl diphosphate (IPP):dimethylallyl diphosphate isomerase catalyzes the interconversion of the fundamental five-carbon homoallylic and allylic diphosphate building blocks required for biosynthesis of isoprenoid compounds. Two different isomerases have been reported. The type I enzyme, first characterized in the late 1950s, is widely distributed in eukaryota and eubacteria. The type II enzyme was recently discovered in Streptomyces sp. strain CL190. Open reading frame 48 (ORF48) in the archaeon Methanothermobacter thermautotrophicus encodes a putative type II IPP isomerase. A plasmid-encoded copy of the ORF complemented IPP isomerase activity in vivo in Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium strain RMC29, which contains chromosomal knockouts in the genes for type I IPP isomerase (idi) and 1-deoxy-D-xylulose 5-phosphate (dxs). The dxs gene was interrupted with a synthetic operon containing the Saccharomyces cerevisiae genes erg8, erg12, and erg19 allowing for the conversion of mevalonic acid to IPP by the mevalonate pathway. His6-tagged M. thermautotrophicus type II IPP isomerase was produced in Escherichia coli and purified by Ni2+ chromatography. The purified protein was characterized by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry. The enzyme has optimal activity at 70 degrees C and pH 6.5. NADPH, flavin mononucleotide, and Mg2+ are required cofactors. The steady-state kinetic constants for the archaeal type II IPP isomerase from M. thermautotrophicus are as follows: K(m), 64 microM; specific activity, 0.476 micromol mg(-1) min(-1); and k(cat), 1.6 s(-1).
The initiation of failure in cemented femoral components of hip arthroplasties

We studied 16 femora retrieved at post-mortem from symptomless patients who had a satisfactory cemented total hip arthroplasty from two weeks to 17 years earlier, with the aim of delineating the initial mechanisms involved in loosening. Only one specimen showed radiographic evidence of loosening; the other 15 were stable to mechanical testing at 17.0 Nm of torque. In all 16 specimens, the cement-bone interface was intact with little fibrous tissue formation. By contrast, separation at the cement-prosthesis interface and fractures in the cement mantle were frequent. The most common early feature was debonding of the cement from the metal, seen at the proximal and distal ends of the prosthesis. Specimens which had been in place for longer also showed circumferential fractures in the cement, near the cement-metal interface, and radial fractures extending from this interface into the cement and sometimes to the bony interface. The most extensive cement fractures appeared to have started at or near sharp corners in the metal, or where the cement mantle was thin or incomplete. Fractures were also related to voids in the cement. The time relationship in this series suggested that long-term failure of the fixation of cemented femoral components was primarily mechanical, starting with debonding at the interface between the cement and the prosthesis, and continuing as slowly developing fractures in the cement mantle.
A Model to Predict Strain Rate Dependency of Dry Silica Sand in Triaxial Compression

A new method is proposed and evaluated to model the effect of strain rate on sand during triaxial compression. Triaxial compression tests were conducted on dry silica sand with rates of 0.1–10 %/s at 100–400 kPa confining pressures. Rate effects become significant at the higher confining pressures. It is found that a modified strain–energy–density approach provides a useful means to interpolate and extrapolate constant strain rate triaxial data to other strain rates.
An Economical and Efficient Vial Rack for the Storage of Small, Fluid-Preserved Specimens

Increasing emphasis has been placed on the fluid preservation of entomological specimens in recent years. Among the many reasons for this are the increased research on the systematics and ecology of soft-bodied immature insects and aquatic insects in general, and the realization that many structural characters of importance are more effectively studied in a relaxed state. Improved systems for specimen storage are therefore of timely importance.
Fluoride Tolerance of Japanese Quail

Abstract A level of 50 p.p.m. fluoride ion in the form of sodium fluoride in the drinking water of Japanese quail had no effect on body weight, mortality, tibia weight per 100 gm. body weight, bone ash, or egg shell thickness as compared to distilled water. Levels of fluoride up to 200 p.p.m. were well-tolerated in drinking water but a level of 500 p.p.m. was lethal.
Anisotropic Structure and Transformation Kinetics of Vapor-Deposited Indomethacin Glasses

One- and two-dimensional wide-angle X-ray scattering (1D and 2D WAXS) measurements were performed on vapor-deposited glasses of indomethacin. Physical vapor deposition can be used to prepare organic glasses with high kinetic stability and other properties that are expected for glasses that have been aged for thousands of years. It was previously reported that 1D WAXS from such stable glasses contains an extra peak at q = 0.6 A−1 that is not characteristic of the ordinary glass or expected for a highly aged glass. 2D WAXS measurements presented here show that the extra WAXS peak is caused by anisotropic packing in the vapor-deposited glass. The electron density is modulated normal to the film surface with a period roughly equal to the center of mass separation of indomethacin molecules. When such samples are annealed, the packing in the sample becomes isotropic. The transformation time for this process is much longer than the structural relaxation of the supercooled liquid and has a weaker temperature depe...
Methodology for Phased Development of a Hypothetical Pipeline Network for CO2 Transport during Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage

If implemented on a commercial scale, carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) has the potential to significantly reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Moving the CO2 from the point sources to the geologic storage locations will likely require a pipeline network. The Plains CO2 Reduction (PCOR) Partnership developed a four-step methodology that can be used to estimate the length, cost, and time frame of a hypothetical pipeline network that would be built in phases. The methodology was tested during a case study in which a hypothetical phased pipeline network was estimated for the PCOR Partnership region. The hypothetical pipeline network consisted of trunk lines roughly 10 780 km in total length that could provide an overall CO2 reduction for the region of about 555.6 Mtonnes of CO2/year by 2050. The results also indicate that an extensive pipeline network may not be required to transport to storage locations the quantity of CO2 required to meet the emission reduction targets for the PCOR Partners...
Benefits and challenges of a QSP approach through case study: Evaluation of a hypothetical GLP-1/GIP dual agonist therapy

Quantitative Systems Pharmacology (QSP) is an emerging science with increasing application to pharmaceutical research and development paradigms. Through case study we provide an overview of the benefits and challenges of applying QSP approaches to inform program decisions in the early stages of drug discovery and development. Specifically, we describe the use of a type 2 diabetes systems model to inform a No-Go decision prior to lead development for a potential GLP-1/GIP dual agonist program, enabling prioritization of exploratory programs with higher probability of clinical success.
Surveillance of Antibody Levels in Healthy Population in Linshui County,2008

Objective To understand the immunity status of measles,diphtheria,pertussis,tetanus and hepatitis B in healthy population in Linshui in 2008 and provide scientific evidence for the timely vaccinations of the diseases. Methods A total of 304 healthy people in 7 age group in Linshui were selected randomly as surveillance subjects,the detections on levels of measles IgG,diphtheria and tetanus antitoxin,hepatitis B surface antibody and pertussis agglutinating antibody were conducted. Results In these people,289 were detected to be measles IgG positive(200mIU/ml) with the positive rate of 95.07%; 290 were with protective level of diphtheria antitoxin(0.28IU/ml ) and the positive rate was 95.39%,295 were pertussis antibody positive(≥1∶20) with the positive rate of 97.04% and protective antibody positive rate of 66.78%; 247 were with protective level of tetanus antitoxin(81.25%); 164 were detected to be hepatitis B surface antibody positive(53.95%). Conclusion The antibody levels of measles,diphtheria and pertussis had reached required levels,but the levels of tetanus antitoxin and hepatitis B surface antibody had not reached this level. It is necessary to strengthen the vaccination of the diseases to increase the herd immunity level.
Gastroschisis:sutureless gut reduction without intubation and general anesthesia

Objective To present our experience of sutureless gut reduction of gastroschisis in infants without intubation and general anesthesia(GA),Methods Prospective data were collected on 10 infants born with gastroschisis from Jan,2004 to Dec,2005 in Children's Hospital,Fudan Univer- sity.Data included gestational age,birth weight,age at the time of reduction,time to commencement of full enteral feeding,duration of TPN,mechanical ventilation,hospital stay,and hospital fees.Re- sults Five cases were attempted with sutureless gut reduction without intubation and GA while the other 5 cases were treated with traditional reduction under intubation and GA.The gestational age was same in two groups.The birth weight in the sutureless reduction group was much heavier than the other group and the age at the time of reduction was younger(P＜0.05).Ventilation was required in the traditional reduction group.The time to commencement of full enteral feeding,duration of TEN, hospital stays were all shorter in the sutureless reduction group.Conclusions Infants with gastroschi- sis undergoing sutureless gut reduction do better in terms of avoiding GA/ventilation,establishing feeds,and going home earlier.This treatment is a feasible,safe,and worthwhile measurement for in- fants with gastroschisis.
Study on application of CBR in steelmaking and continuous casting dynamic scheduling system

A method of two-stage Case-Based Reasoning(CBR) is presented and applied to steelmaking and continuous casting dynamic scheduling system.The primary methods of case representation,retrieving,correcting,evaluating and maintaining are discussed.In application,the system can satisfy the requirement of practical production on velocity,validity and stability.The operation results of the system attain the goal of dynamic scheduling.
Folacin in wheat and selected foods.

New values indicate the folacin content of key foods to be higher than reported previously. Bread is richer in folacin than the wheat from which it is made, due to the addition of yeast to the dough, and whole wheat flour is superior to white flour in this nutrient.
A retrospective cohort study on the natural history of AIDS caused by blood transfusion

Objective To study the natural history of AIDS,caused by blood transfusion.Methods All HIV infections and AIDS patients were from Hebei province,including those infected through blood transfusion around 1995,that were identified as through general census of former commercial plasma donors (FCPDs).Among those objects being observed during the incubation period,354 had HIV infections( including 142 cases infected via plasmapheresis and 212 cases caused by transfusion) but had not been treated by HAART before the onset of disease.Objects being observed during the survival period,141 were AIDS patients (including 57 cases infected via plasmapheresis and 84 cases causes by transfusion) but had not been treated by HAART before and after the onset of disease.All infectors and AIDS patients were under follow-up on the progress of illness or death,respectively.Results By December 31,2010,the cumulative incidence among HIV infections was 88.70％ ( 314/354),with the incidence density as 9.14/100 person-years ( 314/3435.75 )and the median incubation period was 113 months.Of 142 HIV infections in the blood donation group and 212 infections in the blood transfusion group,the incubation periods were 112 months and 115 months,respectively.All of the 141 patients died 34 months after the onset,with the death-strength as 204.70/100 person-years (141/68.88) and the period of survival was 4 months.Among those 57 FCPDs infections,they were all died 24 months after the onset,with the death-strength as 250.66/100 person-years (57/22.74) and the survival was 3 months.The other 84 infections who were blood recipients,all died 34 months after the onset,with the death-strength as 182.05/100 person-years (84/ 46.14) and the survival was 4 months.Conclusion Through this study,we noticed that the natural history of all the AIDS patients was caused by blood transmission.It was important to evaluate the natural history of HIV epidemics among both FCPDs and blood recipients,occurred before and after 1995. Key words: HIV; Former commercial plasma donors; Blood recipients; Natural history
CT Assessment of Global and Regional Cardiac Function: State of the Art

Reliable assessment of cardiac function is an important tool for diagnosis and prognosis of multiple cardiac and extracardiac diseases. Echocardiography and MRI are the most commonly used methods to evaluate cardiac function, but can be limited or contraindicated in certain patients. Functional evaluation with CT may play an important role in these patients and in those patients being evaluated for coronary artery disease. Functional imaging requires a retrospectively gated acquisition and special attention must be paid to the contrast injection technique for appropriate analysis. Left and right ventricular analysis is evaluated both quantitatively and qualitatively. Quantitative measurements with CT have shown close correlation with values obtained with CMR. Acute and chronic infarcts and non-ischemic cardiomyopathies can have a characteristic appearance on imaging. Functional and volumetric measurements of the left atrium can be carried out with similar technique for evaluation of patients with mitral disease or atrial fibrillation.
Parameters controlling microstructures and resistance switching of electrodeposited cuprous oxide thin films

Abstract Cuprous oxide (Cu 2 O) thin films were electrodeposited cathodically from a highly alkaline bath using tartrate as complexing agent. Different microstructures for Cu 2 O thin films were achieved by varying the applied potential from −0.285 to −0.395 V versus a reference electrode of Ag/AgCl at 50 °C in potentiostatic mode, and separately by changing the bath temperature from 25 to 50 °C in galvanostatic mode. Characterization experiments showed that both grain size and orientation of Cu 2 O can be controlled by changing the applied potential. Applying a high negative potential of −0.395 V resulted in smaller grain size of Cu 2 O thin films with a preferred orientation in [111] direction. An increase in the bath temperature in galvanostatic electrodeposition increased the grain size of Cu 2 O thin films. All the films in Au/Cu 2 O/Au-Pd cell showed unipolar resistance switching behavior after an initial FORMING process. Increasing the grain size of Cu 2 O thin films and decreasing the top electrode area increased the FORMING voltage and decreased the current level of high resistance state (HRS). The current in low resistance state (LRS) was independent of the top electrode area and the grain size of deposited films, suggesting a filamentary conduction mechanism in unipolar resistance switching of Cu 2 O.
Radiation Biology and Therapy of Tumors of the Central Nervous System

Interaction of ionizing radiation with any biological material results in uneven energy deposition, which results in a variety of chemical modifications. This is the direct action of radiation that predominates for particulate radiation (protons, neutrons, or α-particles). Another mechanism is the interaction of a photon with orbital electrons of the absorbing intracellular medium, of which water molecules are the most common. This interaction ejects fast electrons from outer shells that create multiple ionizations along their tracks. This mechanism, the indirect action of radiation, is the predominant one for X-rays and γ-rays. The initial ionization occurs in 10−15 seconds while ion radicals and free radicals exist for only 10−10 to 10−5 s. The consequences of radiation-induced chemical alterations may not be expressed for hours or days, if the parameter is cell killing; and potentially years if genetic changes are not manifest until following generations (56).
Two-dimensional and three-dimensional numerical simulations of cycloidal propellers in hover:

The cycloidal propellers for micro aerial vehicle scale cyclocopter in hovering status were studied in this paper based on the URANs solver using 2D, 2.5D, 3D half blade and 3D full blade model. The results from all numerical models were validated with the experimental results. It was found that 2.5D model cannot produce more accurate results than 2D model, hence results from 2D model were employed to discuss cycloidal rotor with infinite blade span. It was also indicated that the 3D half blade model produced the same results as 3D full blade model, but was more efficient than 3D model. The numerical simulation results of cycloidal rotor with finite (3D model) and infinite span (2D model) were compared. The results indicated that for the 2D cycloidal rotor with large blade pitching amplitude, there were leading edge and trailing edge vortices due to dynamic stall, which resulted in parallel blade vortex interactions. The parallel blade vortex interactions will also induce the fluctuation of aerodynamic fo...
Ligation of CD40 in Human Müller Cells Induces P2X7 Receptor–Dependent Death of Retinal Endothelial Cells

Purpose Cluster of differentiation 40 (CD40) is required for retinal capillary degeneration in diabetic mice, a process mediated by the retinal endothelial cells (REC) death. However, CD40 activates prosurvival signals in endothelial cells. The purpose of this study was to identify a mechanism by which CD40 triggers programmed cell death (PCD) of RECs and address this paradox. Methods Human RECs and Muller cells were incubated with CD154 and L-N6-(1-Iminoethyl)lysine (L-Nil, nitric oxide synthase 2 inhibitor), α-lipoic acid (inhibitor of oxidative stress), anti-Fas ligand antibody, or A-438079 (P2X7 adenosine triphosphate [ATP] receptor inhibitor). Programmed cell death was analyzed by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) or Hoechst/propidium iodide staining. Release of ATP was measured using a luciferase-based assay. Mice were made diabetic with streptozotocin. Expression of P2X7 was assessed by FACS, quantitative PCR, or immunohistochemistry. Results Ligation of CD40 in primary RECs did not induce PCD. In contrast, in the presence of primary CD40+ Muller cells, CD40 stimulation caused PCD of RECs that was not impaired by L-Nil, α-lipoic acid, or anti-Fas ligand antibody. We found CD40 did not trigger TNF-α or IL-1β secretion. Primary Muller cells released extracellular ATP in response to CD40 ligation. Inhibition of P2X7 (A-438079) impaired PCD of RECs; CD40 upregulated P2X7 in RECs, making them susceptible to ATP/P2X7-mediated PCD. Diabetic mice upregulated P2X7 in the retina and RECs in a CD40-dependent manner. Conclusions Cluster of differentiation 40 induces PCD of RECs through a dual mechanism: ATP release by Muller cells and P2X7 upregulation in RECs. These findings are likely of in vivo relevance since CD40 upregulates P2X7 in RECs in diabetic mice and CD40 is known to be required for retinal capillary degeneration.
Biology and evolution of crocodylians

Following recognition that birds most probably constitute a clade within the more inclusive clade of dinosaurs, considerable Interest has focused on light the biology of birds might shed on that of...
Spiritual care provided by oncology physicians and nurses to advanced cancer patients.

9116 Background: For many patients facing a diagnosis of advanced cancer, religion and/or spirituality (R/S) play an important role in coping with illness. Data suggest that cancer patients receiving spiritual care (SC) have better quality of life and receive less futile, aggressive interventions at the end of life. National palliative care guidelines include SC as a key component of end-of-life care. However, current SC practices and the role clinicians should play in SC provision remain unclear. Methods: The Religion and Spirituality in Cancer Care (RSCC) study is a survey-based, cross-sectional study of oncology physicians and nurses and advanced cancer patients from five Boston-area institutions. The survey elicited respondents’ R/S beliefs/practices, their views on the appropriateness of SC in the advanced cancer care setting, and their experiences in giving or receiving SC (e.g., spiritual history, referrals to chaplains). In total, 68 patients, 204 physicians, and 114 nurses responded (response rat...
“Madness” and penal confinement: Some observations on mental illness and prison pain:

Unprecedented numbers of mentally ill persons are now housed in prisons and jails in the United States and elsewhere in the world. In many jurisdictions penal institutions have become the default placement for the mentally ill, in lieu of more humane and appropriate facilities in which to treat them. This article briefly reviews some of the causes of the unprecedented influx of the mentally ill into prisons and jails, examines the characteristics of these environments that render them singularly inappropriate placements in these cases, and discusses the various ways that the pains of imprisonment can exacerbate rather than alleviate various forms of mental illness and psychological vulnerability.
Uncertainty Quantification of Lucas Kanade Feature Track and Application to Visual Odometry

An uncertainty quantification approach to estimate the errors incurred by the Kanade Lucas Tomasi (KLT) feature tracking algorithm is presented. The covariance analysis is based on the linearized sensitivity calculations of the KLT algorithm. Track uncertainty thus computed is utilized to quantify the errors associated with feature based relative pose estimation algorithms. This paper also show that the uncertainty analysis result can serve as a mean to measures reliability of feature correspondences. Proposed technique show that a large amount of outlier can be ejected effectively, and thus improve the efficiency of iterative method such as RANSAC.
MDMA Impairs Both the Encoding and Retrieval of Emotional Recollections

The psychoactive drug ±3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is increasingly used for its perceived emotional effects (eg, prosociality, empathy, psychotherapy), but surprisingly little research has been aimed at identifying the effect of the drug on emotional episodic memory in humans. Here, we report the first double-blind placebo-controlled study to examine the effects of MDMA on emotional memory separately during encoding and retrieval in healthy participants. Participants viewed emotionally negative, neutral, and positive pictures and their labels. Forty-eight hours later, they were given cued recollection and recognition memory tests designed to assess recollection and familiarity for the studied pictures. Participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups who received MDMA (1 mg/kg) either during encoding (Encoding group; N=20), retrieval (Retrieval group; N=20), or neither (Placebo group; N=20). Although MDMA administered at either phase did not affect overall memory accuracy, it did alter the recollection of details associated specifically with emotional memories as estimated using a dual process signal detection analysis of confidence judgments and subjective ‘remember’ judgments. In the Encoding group, MDMA reduced recollection estimates for negative and positive pictures but had little to no effect on neutral items or familiarity estimates. There was evidence for similar trends in the Retrieval group. These findings indicate that MDMA attenuates the encoding and retrieval of salient details from emotional events, consistent with the idea that its potential therapeutic effects for treating posttraumatic stress disorder are related to altering emotional memory.