cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Enumerating the causes and burden of first case operating room delays

Abstract Background The purpose of this study was to identify the frequency, causes and estimated cost of first case operating room (OR) delays. Method A quarterly prospective review of the first cases in the OR was completed in 2018. The frequency and causes for delays were determined. Median delay time was calculated and opportunity cost was estimated based on idle labor and overtime for staffing of rooms beyond scheduled end times. Results Of 3604 first cases performed, 55% were delayed for a median 12 min (IQR 6–24 min). The patient and surgeon were responsible for 50% of the causes. Orthopedic (20%) and General (18%) Surgery accounted for the greatest percentage of total delay. A loss of 631 h resulted in an estimated cost of $311,966 for idle labor and $78,623 for nursing overtime. Conclusion Improving accountability and reducing patient-related delays will have the greatest impact on reducing first case on-time delays.
Treatable traits: a step closer to the "holy grail" of asthma control?

McDonald and colleagues are the first to demonstrate in a clinical trial that treatment of treatable traits in severe asthma improved disease control compared to guideline-directed carehttp://bit.ly/2QXZG6v
In Vivo Detection of Underlying Synucleinopathies: Are We There Yet?

Synucleinopathies (SOPs) affect >2 million people in the United States and include clinical syndromes of Parkinson disease (PD), multiple system atrophy (MSA), dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), and pure autonomic failure (PAF), all characterized by deposition of α-synuclein aggregations within the CNS and peripheral nervous system.1 To date, diagnosis is made clinically and confirmed only at autopsy. In addition, even among experts, there is only modest diagnostic accuracy early in these diseases, particularly in atypical and complex cases.2 For example, in patients clinically diagnosed with MSA, only 60% at autopsy were confirmed to have MSA, and 18% were found to have the nonsynucleinopathy progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP).3
Learning from Heterogeneous Data via Contrastive Learning: An Application in Multi-Source COVID-19 Radiography

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has overloaded current healthcare systems, including radiology systems and departments. Machine learning-based medical imaging diagnostic approaches play an important role in tracking the spread of this virus, identifying high-risk patients, and controlling infections in real-time. Researchers aggregate radiographic samples from different data sources to establish a multi-source learning scheme to mitigate the insufficiency of COVID-19 samples from individual hospitals, especially in the early stage of the disease. However, data heterogeneity across different clinical centers with various imaging conditions is considered a significant limitation in model performance. This paper proposes a contrastive learning scheme for the automatic diagnosis of COVID-19 to effectively mitigate data heterogeneity in multi-source data and learn a robust and generalizable model. Inspired by advances in domain adaptation, we employ contrastive training objectives to promote intra-class cohesion across different data sources and inter-class separation of infected and non-infected cases. Extensive experiments on two public COVID-19 CT datasets demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method for tackling data heterogeneity problems with boosted diagnosis performance. Moreover, benefiting from the contrastive learning framework, our method can be generalized to solve data heterogeneity problems under a broader multi-source learning setting.
Si/Ge–WSi2 composites: Processing and thermoelectric properties

Abstract Thermoelectric nano-composites composed of a Si/Ge matrix with WSi 2 nano-precipitates were investigated and reductions in lattice thermal conductivity as large as 40% (compared to a benchmark silicide free sample) have been achieved. Additionally, samples exhibited enhanced figure of merit over that of classic state-of-the art Si/Ge, improvements as large as 30% were obtained for both p-type and n-type samples. Samples were prepared from powder metallurgic techniques; mechano-chemical alloying in a planetary mill combined with spark plasma sintering for densification. Thermoelectric properties and microstructure of the specimens were investigated in relationship to processing conditions and composition. The nano-composites investigated in this work provide both a viable enhancement mechanism with greater thermal stability and an experimental benchmark for theoretic work on silicide inclusions in Si/Ge matrix. This experimental work verifies the prospect to enhance figure of merit, and demonstrates that achieving uniform WSi 2 nano-inclusion is a technical challenge using powder processing approach.
Pediatric airway management: comparing the Berci-Kaplan Video Laryngoscope with direct laryngoscopy.

Summary Objectives: To assess the utility of the Berci–Kaplan Video Laryngoscope (VL) in pediatric anesthesia. Background: The VL is designed to improve visualization of the glottis during tracheal intubation of normal and difficult airways in adults. This study was designed to assess the visual quality and the ease of tracheal intubation in children using the VL when compared with direct laryngoscopy (DL). Methods: Sixty children, aged 2–16 years requiring tracheal intubation, were enrolled in this prospective, randomized clinical trial. Following induction of anesthesia and muscle paralysis, the first laryngoscopy method, using either a DL or the VL, was performed by one anesthetist, and the laryngoscopic view was graded according to the Cormack–Lehane scale. Laryngoscopy and grading of the view in the second method were then performed by a second anesthetist. Tracheal intubation was completed following the second laryngoscopy, and time to intubation was recorded. Results: The average age and weight were 8.9 ± 3.6 years and 34.9 ± 16.0 kg respectively. Videolaryngoscopy improved 8/11 grade 2 views to grade 1 (P = 0.02), and one grade 3 to a grade 2. Three grade 2 views remained unchanged from DL to VL. 4/30 VL intubations required two attempts, and 1/30 failed after two attempts, but was easily intubated with DL. Median time (range) was 16.0 s (14.0–20.0 s) and 22.5 s (17.8–35.0 s) for DL and VL respectively (P < 0.001). Conclusion: Videolaryngoscopy provides better views than DL at the expense of time to intubate. Although the time taken to intubate is increased with the VL, it is clinically acceptable.
Reduced incidental light exposure: effect on the development of retinopathy of prematurity in low birth weight infants.

In a recent study, it was reported that incidental lighting within the newborn intensive care unit setting may play a role in the development of retinopathy of prematurity. Consequently, the routine clinical management in the intensive care nursery at Yale-New Haven Hospital was modified to include shielding each premature infant9s isolette, thereby decreasing the intensity of the nursery lights on an infant9s eyes from a median light level of 55 foot-candles to 15 foot-candles. The effect of this reduction of light level on the incidence of retinopathy of prematurity in 161 premature infants was prospectively investigated. This group was then compared with a historic control group of 129 premature infants with similar characteristics who had been exposed to standard nursery lighting. There was no difference in the incidence and severity of retinopathy of prematurity between the two groups.
Assessing human-human therapy kinematics for retargeting to human-robot therapy

In this paper, we present experiments examining the accuracy of data collected from a Kinect sensor for capturing close interactive actions of a therapist with a patient during stroke rehabilitation. Our long-term goal is to map human-human interactions such as these patient-therapist ones onto human-robot interactions. In many robot interaction scenarios, the robot does not mimic interaction between two or more humans, which is a major part of stroke therapy. The Kinect works for functional tasks such as a reaching task where the interaction to be retargeted by the robot is minimal to none; though this data is not good for a functional task involving touching another person. We demonstrate that the noisy data from Kinect does not produce a system robust enough to be for remapping to a humanoid robot a therapit's movements when in contact with a person.
Genetic Screens and Biochemical Assays to Characterize Vibrio cholerae O1 Biotypes: Classical and El Tor

Vibrio cholerae serogroup O1 has two biotypes, classical and El Tor, the latter of which has displaced the prior and has been the causative agent for the ongoing seventh pandemic. However, reports since 2001 have identified clinical isolates of El Tor that have classical O1 biotype genetic and phenotypic characteristics. These El Tor variants have been emerging in clinical settings with increased frequency, including the 2010 cholera outbreak in Haiti. The emergence of El Tor variants warrants the proper and timely identification of clinical (or environmental) isolates' biotype. This unit describes some quick and simple genetic screens and phenotypic assays (biochemical characterization), to be performed simultaneously, commonly used to distinguish biotype and initiate characterization of any clinical (or environmental) isolates of Vibrio cholerae O1.
Rapid, Automated, Simultaneous Determination of Serum CO2 and Chloride with the "AutoAnalyzer I"

A method for simultaneous, automated determination of serum CO2 and chloride is presented, in which the dialyzers of the more expensive AutoAnalyzer II system are combined with the usual components of the AutoAnalyzer I system. Thus, the innovative features of the AutoAnalyzer II system are used at low cost.
Towards assessing the willingness of Intelligence analysts to contribute to Knowledge Management Systems (KMS) in highly classified environments

Since September 11, 2001, the United States Government (USG) has possessed unparalleled capability in terms of dedicated Intelligence and information collection assets supporting the analysts of the Intelligence Community (IC). The USG IC has sponsored, developed, and borne witness to extraordinary advances in technology, techniques, and procedures focused on knowledge harvesting, knowledge sharing, and collaboration. Knowledge, within successful (effective & productive) organizations, exists as a commodity; a commodity that can be created, captured, imparted, shared, and leveraged. This poster will provide an overview of on-going research that addresses the challenge of maintaining strong organizational effectiveness and productivity through the use of Knowledge Management Systems (KMS). The main goal of this proposed study is to empirically assess a model to test the impact of the factors of reward, power, centrality, trust, collaborative environment, resistance to share, ease-of-using KMS, organizational structure, and top management support to inducement, willingness to share, as well as opportunity to contribute knowledge to a KMS on knowledge-sharing in highly classified environments.
The viscoelastic relaxation mechanism of inorganic polymers. III. The sodium polyphosphates

Abstract : The sodium polyphosphates represent an ideal bridge between the linear organic polymers and the highly cross-linked inorganic glasses. In an attempt to elucidate which of two possible relaxation mechanisms (bond interchange or molecular flow) is responsible for the viscoelastic behavior of this polymer, (NaPO3)x samples possessing various terminal groups were studied by the technique of stress relaxation. The results indicate that molecular flow is predominant in the linear materials, while bond interchange at the branch points is prevalent in the crosslinked samples. Simple molecular flow was confirmed for the linear material when a radiotracer study failed to reveal any sign of interchange between inactive high polymer and radioactive low polymer. (Author)
Effects of hydrostatic pressure on the mechanical behaviour of polytetrafluoroethylene and polycarbonate

Abstract The effects of hydrostatic pressure (up to 100,000 psi) on the stress-strain behaviour of a highly crystalline polymer (polytetrafluoroethylene) and an amorphous polymer (polycarbonate) have been determined. All measurements are made by an apparatus so designed that specimens can be subject to a tensile, or compressive, load while under any given constant hydrostatic pressure. For both polymers, the yield stress has been found to increase significantly with increase of pressure; the implications for various theories of yielding are discussed. The modulus also rises appreciably with increase of pressure; it is shown that part of this effect is due to the presence of finite strains. The ductility and fracture behaviour differ for the two polymers. Under increasing pressure, the polytetrafluoroethylene shows a more brittle type of failure and the ductility decreases; while for the polycarbonate, the test specimens become more ductile with increasing pressure.
Cloning, Mapping, and in Vivo Localization of a Human Member of the PKCI-1 Protein Family (PRKCNH1)

We report here the complete cDNA sequence, genomic mapping, and immunolocalization of the first human member of the protein kinase C inhibitor (PKCI-1) gene family. The predicted human protein (hPKCI-1) is 96% identical to bovine and 53% identical to maize members, indicating the great evolutionary conservation of this protein family. The hPKCI-1 gene (HGMV-approved symbol PRKCNH1) maps to human chromosome 5q31.2 by fluorescence in situ hybridization. Indirect immunofluorescence shows that hPKCI-1 localizes to cytoskeletal structures in the cytoplasm of a human fibroblast cell line and is largely excluded from the nucleus. The cytoplasmic localization of hPKCI-1 is consistent with a postulated role in mediating a membrane-derived signal in response to ionizing radiation.
Second language vocabulary acquisition using a diglot reader or a computer-based drill and practice program

This research study compares the impact of a computer-based diglot reader with that of a sophisticated, computer-based, drill and practice program on second language acquisition. The affective benefits as well as depth and breadth of vocabulary development were examined. The diglot method, originally conceived by Burling, introduces second language vocabulary within the context of a familiar first language text, thus allowing the reader to acquire the second language incidentally while lowering the affective barrier to language acquisition. This research study reaffirmed the positive affective benefit of the diglot method and showed that the diglot reader was equally as effective as the drill and practice program in facilitating vocabulary acquisition.
Development of a GABAergic treatment for substance abuse using PET

Development of an effective treatment for substance abuse relies on a better understanding of the nature of the brain reward circuitry and neurotransmitter systems regulating the mechanisms responsible for drug abuse, addiction, and dependence. The use of positron emission tomography (PET) enables the direct assessment of pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic events in vivo. We demonstrated that administration of gamma-vinyl gamma aminobutyric acid (GVG, vigabatrin), acting through potentiation of GABAergic tone, leads to decreases in brain extracellular dopamine concentrations as measured with PET and in vivo microdialysis. This knowledge, combined with the notion that addictive drugs share the ability to stimulate dopaminergic neurotransmission, suggests a novel GABAergic strategy for the treatment of substance abuse. Over the past several years PET and in vivo microdialysis, combined with an array of behavioral tests, have demonstrated the potential utility of this approach. Taken together, our data support the use of vigabatrin for the treatment of multiple drug addictions. Drug Dev. Res. 59:240–248, 2003. © 2003 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Data management and model management: a relational synthesis

The successful implementation of data base management systems has led to suggestions that similar systems, called model management systems, be developed for decision models to facilitate and control user access to models and to integrate sets of models. This paper compares data management and model management in a relational context and examines an important difference between them: the conspicuous presence of sensitivity analysis in model management and its complete absence in data management. The paper concludes by outlining the salient issues in the integration of data and model management.
Assessment of NIR Spectroscopy for Nondestructive Analysis of Physical and Chemical Attributes of Sulfamethazine Bolus Dosage Forms

The goal of this study was to assess the utility of near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy for the determination of content uniformity, tablet crushing strength (tablet hardness), and dissolution rate in sulfamethazine veterinary bolus dosage forms. A formulation containing sulfamethazine, corn starch, and magnesium stearate was employed. The formulations were wet granulated with a 10% (wt/vol) starch paste in a high shear granulator and dried at 60°C in a convection tray dryer. The tablets were compressed on a Stokes B2 rotary tablet press running at 30 rpm. Each sample was scanned in reflectance mode in the wavelengths of the NIR region. Principal component analysis (PCA) of the NIR tablet spectra and the neat raw materials indicated that the scores of the first 2 principal components were highly correlated with the chemical and physical attributes. Based on the PCA model, the significant wavelengths for sulfamethazine are 1514, (1660–1694), 2000, 2050, 2150, 2175, 2225, and 2275 nm; for corn starch are 1974, 2100, and 2325 nm; and for magnesium stearate are 2325 and 2375 nm. In addition, the loadings show large negative peaks around the water band regions (≈1420 and 1940 nm), indicating that the partial least squares (PLS) models could be affected by product water content. A simple linear regression model was able to predict content uniformity with a correlation coefficient of 0.986 at 1656 nm; the use of a PLS regression model, with 3 factors, had anr2 of 0.9496 and a sandard error of calibration of 0.0316. The PLS validation set had anr2 of 0.9662 and a standard error of 0.0354. PLS calibration models, based on tablet absorbance data, could successfully predict tablet crushing strength and dissolution in spite of varying active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) levels. Prediction plots based on these PLS models yielded correlation coefficients of 0.84 and 0.92 on independent validation sets for crushing strength and Q120 (percentage dissolved in 120 minutes), respectively.
Static Analysis of Sandwich Panels with Square Honeycomb Core

Static analysis of sandwich panels with a square honeycomb core is performed using the finite element approach applied to the plate theories. The constitutive behavior of an equivalent continuum to the core is obtained using the strain energy approach. The displacement field of the sandwich panel modeled using the equivalent continuum is then compared with results obtained from a highly detailed finite element method created in ABAQUS. The comparison shows the results of the higher-order shear deformation theory in error of 7.6% compared with the detailed model results. An equivalent single layer finite element method for the sandwich panel was then created in ABAQUS and the displacement results of this equivalent single layer model are compared with those obtained from the detailed finite element method. This comparison reveals an error of 6.1% in the results between the two models. A comparison between the equivalent single layer model and the highly detailed model is presented for different core relative densities at two locations of the sandwich panel. A detailed finite element method analysis of the unit cell of the square honeycomb was next performed using ABAQUS and the flexibility approach. Comparison between the equivalent strain energy approach and flexibility approach applied to detailed ABAQUS models of the unit cell proved the equivalent strain energy approach to be efficient.
Vigabatrin for Infantile Spasms

Infantile spasms describe a pediatric epilepsy syndrome characterized by frequent clusters of brief symmetric muscle contractions; the condition is often associated with developmental delay. When infantile spasms are accompanied by hypsarrhythmia on electroencephalogram, the condition is labeled West syndrome. The mainstay of treatment for infantile spasms is adrenocorticotropic hormone; however, vigabatrin, a vinyl derivative of γ-aminobutyric acid, has been used for the treatment of infantile spasms in Europe since 1989. In 2009, vigabatrin was approved by the United States Food and Drug Adminstration (FDA) for use as monotherapy in the treatment of infantile spasms in patients aged 1 month-2 years when the benefits of treatment outweigh the risks. Results from numerous trials examining the role of vigabatrin in infantile spasms have been published; many of these trials were small, open-label, or noncontrolled. Although clinical trials have provided some insight into the utility of vigabatrin for the treatment of infantile spasms, these studies have notable limitations. In addition, vigabatrin is associated with a black-box warning that describes the potential for permanent bilateral concentric visual field defects. Currently, vigabatrin is available through a manufacturer-sponsored program in accordance with its FDA-approved Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy. Although several guidelines recommend vigabatrin as a first-line therapy for infantile spasms, specifically infantile spasms related to tuberous sclerosis, it is still unclear whether vigabatrin should supersede hormone therapy as first-line therapy. Further research comparing the two therapies is needed.
Wafer Scale Synthesis and High Resolution Structural Characterization of Atomically Thin MoS2 Layers

Synthesis of atomically thin MoS2 layers and its derivatives with large-area uniformity is an essential step to exploit the advanced properties of MoS2 for their possible applications in electronic and optoelectronic devices. In this work, a facile method is reported for the continuous synthesis of atomically thin MoS2 layers at wafer scale through thermolysis of a spin coated-ammonium tetrathiomolybdate film. The thickness and surface morphology of the sheets are characterized by atomic force microscopy. The optical properties are studied by UV–Visible absorption, Raman and photoluminescence spectroscopies. The compositional analysis of the layers is done by X-ray photo­emission spectroscopy. The atomic structure and morphology of the grains in the polycrystalline MoS2 atomic layers are examined by high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy. The electron mobilities of the sheets are evaluated using back-gate field-effect transistor configuration. The results indicate that this facile method is a promising approach to synthesize MoS2 thin films at the wafer scale and can also be applied to synthesis of WS2 and hybrid MoS2-WS2 thin layers.
A Source of E and H Fields for Antenna-Factor Calibration

The loop cell used for calibration is fabricated using two intersecting metal sheets joined at the intersection and forming a 360 angle. A section of a loop is mounted between two coaxial panel jacks, one on each sheet located at a distance equal to the loop radius from the intersection. A known current through this section of electrically small loop produces calculable E and H fields between the sheets in the plane of the loop. These known fields may be used to determine the antenna factor of small E and H antennas placed in the field if the mutual impedance due to the antenna images in the sheets is negligible and the antenna is not close to the open edges of the cell. Measured and calculated antenna factors agree within ± 2 dB between 0.25 and 1000 MHz.
The sorption of humic acids to mineral surfaces and their role in contaminant binding

Abstract Humic substances dissolved in groundwater may adsorb to certain mineral surfaces, rendering hydrophilic surfaces hydrophobic and making them sorbents for hydrophobic organic compounds (HOC). The sorption of humic and fulvic acids (International Humic Substances Society, IHSS, reference samples) on hematite and kaolinite was investigated to determine how natural organic coatings influence HOC sorption. The sorption behavior of the humic substances was consistent with a ligand-exchange mechanism, and the amount of sorption depended on the concentration of hydroxylated surface sites on the mineral and the properties of the humic substance. The sorption of the humic substances to two solids was proportional to their aromatic carbon content and inversely proportional to the O/C ratio. Increasing quantities of sorbed humic substances ( f oc , 0.01–0.5%) increased the sorption of carbazole, dibenzothiophene and anthracene. Peat humic acid, the most aromatic coating, showed the greatest sorption enhancement of HOC when sorbed to hematite. In addition, HOC sorption was greater on organic coatings formed at low ionic strength ( I = 0.005) as compared to higher ionic strength ( I = 0.1). We suggest that both the mineral surface and the ionic strength of the electrolyte affect the interfacial configuration of the sorbed humic substance, altering the size or accessibility of hydrophobic domains on the humic molecule to HOC.
Detrital zircon ages from the Chugach terrane, southern Alaska, reveal multiple episodes of accretion and erosion in a subduction complex

Detrital zircon U-Pb ages from the McHugh Complex reveal the Mesozoic history of the Chugach terrane accretionary complex in southern Alaska (United States). The majority of the eight samples of graywacke and argillite from the melange have youngest peaks that are also the dominant peaks on probability distribution diagrams. The youngest groups of zircons are 157 Ma and 146 Ma in two samples and range from 91 to 84 Ma in six samples that also have Jurassic zircons. Minor Proterozoic zircons are present only in samples with Late Cretaceous zircons. A trondhjemite that intrudes the McHugh Complex has a U-Pb zircon age of 120 ± 3 Ma. We show that the McHugh Complex consists of two packages, a mesomelange of argillite and chert that accreted during the Late Jurassic–Early Cretaceous and a graywacke-conglomerate assemblage that accreted during the Late Cretaceous. We propose that either the Talkeetna arc or Chitina arc in southern Alaska was the principal sedimentary source for the older McHugh Complex, whereas volcanic rocks from the Coast orogen of British Columbia were a probable source for the Late Cretaceous McHugh Complex and the Valdez Group flysch. The age gap between the two packages corresponds to a ridge subduction event recorded by forearc trondhjemite magmatism and regional uplift at 125–120 Ma that likely triggered subduction erosion. Our data suggest that the youngest detrital zircon ages can approximate the time of accretion in subduction complexes because arc detritus is added to the downgoing plate near the trench and is subsequently rapidly accreted.
Randomized controlled trial: effects of acupuncture on pregnancy rates in women undergoing in vitro fertilization.

Objective To evaluate the influence of "true" versus "sham" acupuncture on pregnancy rates (PRs) in women undergoing IVF. Design Randomized controlled trial, double-blinded with independent observer. Setting Academic infertility clinic. Patient(s) One hundred sixty patients Intervention(s) Subjects were randomly allocated to the true or sham group and underwent acupuncture 25 minutes before and after ET. Subjects completed a McGill Pain Questionnaire regarding their clinical symptoms during ET. Main Outcome Measure(s) Clinical PR and clinical symptoms during ET. Result(s) While the overall clinical PR was 51.25%, there was no significant difference between the arms of the study (true = 45.3% vs. sham=52.7%); 33.1% of the patients had ultrasound-documented singleton pregnancy, and 15% of patients had twin gestations, while one patient in the true arm had a triplet gestation. There were significant differences in the subjective, affective, and total pain experience between both arms. The subjects in the true arm described their acupuncture session as being more "tiring" and "fearful" and experienced more "achiness" compared with their sham counterparts. Conclusion(s) There was no statistically significant difference in the clinical or chemical PRs between both groups. Patients undergoing true acupuncture had differing sensory experiences compared with patients in the sham arm. There were no significant adverse effects observed during the study, suggesting that acupuncture is safe for women undergoing ET.
Modulation of the RNA Binding and Protein Processing Activities of Poliovirus Polypeptide 3CD by the Viral RNA Polymerase Domain

To study the role of the RNA polymerase domain (3D) in the proteinase substrate recognition and RNA binding properties of poliovirus polypeptide 3CD, we generated recombinant 3C and 3CD polypeptides and purified them to near homogeneity. By using these purified proteins in in vitro cleavage assays with structural and non-structural viral polyprotein substrates, we found that 3CD processes the poliovirus structural polyprotein precursor (P1) 100 to 1000 times more efficiently than 3C processes P1. We also found that trans-cleavage of other 3CD molecules and sites within the non-structural P3 precursor is more efficiently mediated by 3CD than 3C. However, 3C and 3CD appear to be equally efficient in the processing of a non-structural polyprotein precursor, 2C3AB. Four mutated 3CD polyproteins with site-directed lesions in the 3D domain of the proteinase were analyzed for their ability to process viral polyprotein precursors and to form a ternary complex with RNA sequences encoded in the 5′ terminus of the viral genome. Analysis of mutated 3CD polypeptides revealed that specific mutations within the 3D amino acid sequences of 3CD confer differential effects on 3CD activity. All four mutated 3CD proteins tested were able to process the P1 structural precursor with wild type or near wild type efficiency. However, three of the mutated enzymes demonstrated an impaired ability to process some sites within the P3 non-structural precursor, relative to wild type 3CD. One of the mutant 3CD polypeptides, 3CD-3DK127A, also displayed a defect in its ability to form a ternary ribonucleoprotein complex with poliovirus 5′ RNA sequences.
Livestock responses to droughts and severe winter weather in the Gobi Three Beauty National Park, Mongolia

Abstract We investigated how both droughts and dzuds (severe winter weather) control livestock mortality in a non-equilibrium steppe ecosystem of Mongolia, Gobi Three Beauty National Park. These steppe ecosystems have developed under high interannual variability of rainfall and nomadic grazing systems. Interannual precipitation variation was 39%, with 128 mm mean annual precipitation. The effect of climate variability and extreme events on livestock mortality is a critical aspect for the Mongolian economy. Analysis of drought and precipitation variability on livestock mortality rate was not significantly influenced by the index of mean annual precipitation and annual winter temperature. Overall, unlike hot dry regions, pastoral livestock mortality in the cold dry regions was affected more by dzuds and annual growing seasonal rain than by droughts. Dzuds can be frequent events, occurring as often as once every 2 and 3 years within a decade. The average annual livestock mortality for the combined drought and dzuds years (18%) was 4.8% greater than the years with dzuds alone, and 7% greater than in years with only drought. Thus livestock mortality appears to be more sensitive to dzuds than to droughts, and that dzuds contributes more to livestock mortality even years where combined drought and winter storms occur.
A novel missense RAG-1 mutation results in T − B − NK + SCID in Athabascan-speaking Dine Indians from the Canadian Northwest Territories

DNA double-strand repair factors in the non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) pathway resolve DNA double-strand breaks introduced by the recombination-activating gene (RAG) proteins during V(D)J recombination of T and B lymphocyte receptor genes. Defective NHEJ and subsequent failure of V(D)J recombination leads to severe combined immunodeficiency disease (SCID). We originally linked T−B−NK+ SCID in Athabascan-speaking Native Americans in the Southwestern US and Northwest Territories of Canada to chromosome 10. However, despite a common ancestry, the null mutation in the Artemis gene that we found to be causal in the SCID among the Navajo and Apache Indians was not present in the Dine Indians in the Northwest Territories. We now report a novel homozygous missense mutation (R776W) in RAG-1 in three children with T−B−NK+ SCID from two related families of Athabascan-speaking Dine Indians in the Canadian Northwest Territories. As expected, we found no increased sensitivity to ionizing radiation in patient fibroblasts. The impaired activity of this RAG-1 mutant in V(D)J recombination was confirmed by the EGFP-based V(D)J recombination assays. Overexpression of wild type RAG-1 in patient fibroblasts complemented V(D)J recombination, with recovery of both coding and signal joint formation. Our results indicate that the novel R776W missense mutation in RAG-1 is causal in the T−B−NK+ SCID phenotype in Athabascan-speaking Dine Indians from the Canadian Northwest Territories.
Low-Temperature Electromagnetic Generation of Ultrasound in Potassium

The magnetic field dependence of electromagnetic generation of 9.4-MHz ultrasound in potassium below 4.2\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K has been measured and compared with calculations based upon a free-electron model of the metal. It is found that substantial differences exist between the experimental results and predictions of the theory.
Chromosome 6p influences on different dyslexia-related cognitive processes: further confirmation.

Summary In this study, which is a continuation and an extension of an earlier study, we enrolled two new families ( N =31) and recruited more individuals from the previously ascertained families ( N =56). The eight multiplex families ( N =171) presented in this study were ascertained from a sample of adult probands whose childhood reading history is well documented through archival information. Six phenotypes were constructed to span a range of dyslexia-related cognitive processes. These phenotypes were (1) phonemic awareness (of spoken words); (2) phonological decoding (of printed nonwords); (3) rapid automatized naming (of colored squares or object drawings); (4) single-word reading (orally, of printed real words); (5) vocabulary; and (6) spelling (of dictated words). In addition, the diagnosis of lifelong dyslexia was established by clinical means. Genotyping was done with nine highly polymorphic markers from the 6p22.3–6p21.3 region. The results of two- and multipoint identity-by-descent and identity-by-state analyses supported the importance of a putative locus in the D6S464–D6S273 region for a number of dyslexia-related cognitive deficits.
PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS OF NOVEL OPEN PARALLEL PLATE SEPARATOR

A numerical model has been developed to describe the characteristics of the recently developed micro open parallel plate separator (μOPPS). This model solves the mass-balance equation for a single solute within a microchannel with a rectangular flow cross-section, and accounts for the velocity profile in the channel. It is shown that the separation characteristics are sensitive to the concentration and velocity gradients along the depth—a factor that has been neglected in the past. An empirical expression has been developed for the reduced plate height of the μOPPS. It has been shown that estimation of performance parameters using an equivalent radius in equations developed for a circular cross-section gives erroneous predictions.
Torsional Behavior of Shape Memory Alloy Tubes for Biomedical Applications

Shape memory alloys have been implemented in various applications throughout aerospace, biomedical, and various other fields. Some currently investigated applications of shape memory alloys include biomedical stents, rotary blade actuators, and pedicle screws for securing osteoporotic vertebrae. There have been many models developed by previous authors that discuss the reactions of this alloy in tension, compression, and one dimensional bending. It was the goal of this investigation to expand upon previous works to model the behavior of a shape memory alloy tube in pure torsion. The motivation for this investigation was the biomedical applications of this alloy. Because of its distinct properties of superelasticity and shape memory effect, the alloy is ideal for the design and implementation of medical devices that are smaller and more efficient than previous methods. The goal of this investigation was to model the properties of an SMA tube in torsion for use in an active orthoses for the treatment neuromuscular disorders and various other biomedical devices which involve the implementation of nitinol tubes in torsion. To this end, a model using COMSOL Multiphysics was developed which, in turn, will aid in predicting the behavior of an SMA tube under a torsional load and allow for calculation of an optimal torque tube for our applications. The outputs gained from this model were the angle of deformation under an applied torque, the resultant torque upon unloading of the tube, and the stress-strain relationships. From this information, different tube geometries will be experimentally tested to determine the best design for implementation. Once the analytical forces were determined from the SMA tubes using the COMSOL model, these results were then compared to experimental values from previous works to evaluate the accuracy of the model for the desired conditions.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
ANTEBELLUM SOUTHERN PARLOR INVENTORIES, 1845–1860

OBJECTIVE: This paper contributes to knowledge of interior design in the antebellum American South by identifying patterns of parlor furnishing ownership, use, and characteristics among Greene County, Alabama, slave owners from 1845 to 1860. RESEARCH DESIGN: A variety of historical documents, primarily probate court inventories (N = 326), were used to provide information on the furnishing of antebellum southern parlors. Primary evidence from Greene County was compared to information on furnishing practices gathered from mid-nineteenth-century American publications to enhance interpretation of the inventories. ANALYSIS: Primary historical documents were identified and evaluated to establish a body of appropriate data. Electronic quantification systems generated descriptive statistics for the inventory data. Statistics and other findings were compared to evidence from American publications. KEY FINDINGS: Readily discernible patterns are evident in the occurrence, physical characteristics, and assemblage of furnishings in Greene County parlors. The study revealed that there were differences but also striking similarities between the furnishing practices of southern Americans and those advocated in mid-nineteenth-century American publications. It also found that the total wealth of decedents was related but not directly correlated to the quantity and value of their residential furnishings. CONCLUSIONS: Quantitative analysis of data on furnishings drawn from probate court inventories provides valuable information for interior design historians. These findings produced information applicable to the recreation of historical environments and the development of conclusions about life among Americans in the antebellum lower South.
Laboratory evaluation of zero-valent iron to treat water impacted by acid mine drainage.

Abstract This study examines the applicability and limitations of granular zero-valent iron for the treatment of water impacted by mine wastes. Rates of acid-neutralization and of metal (Cu, Cd, Ni, Zn, Hg, Al, and Mn) and metalloid (As) uptake were determined in batch systems using simulated mine drainage (initial pH 2.3–4.5; total dissolved solids 14 000–16 000 mg l −1 ). Metal removal from solution and acid-neutralization occurred simultaneously and were most rapid during the initial 24 h of reaction. Reaction half-lives ranged from 1.50 ± 0.09 h for Al to 8.15 ± 0.36 h for Zn. Geochemical model results indicate that metal removal is most effective in solutions that are highly undersaturated with respect to pure-metal hydroxides suggesting that adsorption is the initial and most rapid metal uptake mechanism. Continued adsorption onto or co-precipitation with iron corrosion products are secondary metal uptake processes. Sulfate green rust was identified as the primary iron corrosion product, which is shown to be the result of elevated [SO 4 2− ]/[HCO 3 − ] ratios in solution. Reversibility studies indicate that zero-valent iron will retain metals after shifts in redox states are imposed, but that remobilization of metals may occur after the acid-neutralization capacity of the material is exhausted.
To buy or not to buy: Impact of labeling on purchasing intentions of genetically modified foods

Abstract This study conducted a partial test of the Theory of Planned Behavior [Ajzen , I., 1985. From intentions to action: a theory of planned behavior. In: Kuhl, J., Beckmenn, J. (Eds.), Action Control: From Cognition to Behavior. Springer, New York, pp. 11–39; Ajzen, I., 1989. Attitude structure and behavior. In: Breckler, S.J., Greenwald, A.G. (Eds.), Attitude Structure and Function. Lawrence Erlbaum, Springer, Hillsdale, NJ, New York, pp. 241–274; Ajzen, I., 1991. The theory of planned behavior. Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes 50, 179–211] by assessing an individual's attitude toward labeling of genetically modified (GM) foods on the individual's purchasing intentions. Data collected from 16,078 participants across 15 European Union member countries from the EUROBAROMETER 53 were examined. Using Univariate ANOVA, the results indicate that: (1) many (roughly 73% of the sample) of the individuals residing in the 15 European countries are less likely to purchase a food product with a label indicating the existence of a GM ingredient; (2) women were less likely to purchase the GM product than men; and (3) those individuals who are more likely to purchase a GM food believed it is unnecessary to include complete information pertaining to the use of GM organisms in the production of food products. Specifically, individuals were significantly more likely to purchase the product if they stated that (a) it is unnecessary to show information on a label pertaining to the use of GM organisms in the production of the food product, even if those GM organisms are present in some of the ingredients; (b) it is unnecessary to include information regarding the use of GM organisms in the product on a label if the GM organisms are present in the end product; and (c) the information regarding the use of a GM organism does not have to be clear. Future directions regarding research on GM foods are presented.
The energetics of hydrogen bonds in model systems : Implications for enzymatic catalysis

Low-barrier or short, strong hydrogen bonds have been proposed to contribute 10 to 20 kilocalories per mole to transition-state stabilization in enzymatic catalysis. The proposal invokes a large increase in hydrogen bond energy when the pKa values of the donor and acceptor (where Ka is the acid constant) become matched in the transition state (delta pKa=0). This hypothesis was tested by investigating the energetics of hydrogen bonds as a function of delta pKa for homologous series of compounds under nonaqueous conditions that are conducive to the formation of low-barrier hydrogen bonds. In all cases, there was a linear correlation between the increase in hydrogen-bond energy and the decrease in delta pKa, as expected from simple electrostatic effects. However, no additional energetic contribution to the hydrogen bond was observed at delta pKa=0. These results and those of other model studies suggest alternative mechanisms by which hydrogen bonds can contribute to enzymatic catalysis, in accord with conventional electrostatic considerations.
Ecological momentary assessment of the relationship between intention and physical activity behavior in bariatric surgery patients.

Background Performing habitual physical activity (PA) is challenging for many bariatric surgery patients.
Limit distribution of spacings statistics when the sample size is random

Abstract A random sample size version of the central limit theorem is obtained for a general class of symmetric statistics based on uniform spacings. An important application to goodness of fit test for a Poisson process is discussed.
Isolation and characterization of a urinary mucoprotein from ovine urine.

Abstract Physical examination of a threadlike ovine urinary mucoprotein revealed a close similarity to Tamm and Horsfall's mucoprotein of human urine. The long and slender filaments observed by electron microscopy have widths of 150 A., lengths between 2500 and 40,000 A., and repeated beading at 200 A. The ovine mucoprotein behaved as a single component in the ultracentrifuge with a sedimentation coefficient of 30 S as found by extrapolation to zero mucoprotein concentration. At pH 7.5–7.8 the electrophoretic mobility of the mucoprotein was approximately −11.6 × 10 −5 cm. 2 sec. −1 v. −1 .
Organization of the chloroplast ribosomal RNA genes of Euglena gracilis bacillaris

The order of eight of the 29 endonuclease EcoRI-generated fragments of chloroplast DNA was determined. Three sets of rRNA genes aligned sequentially in the same orientation form part of this region. The repeated sets differ in the length and sequence of the spacers among themselves and with the rRNA genes of E. gracilis strain Z.
Compressive behavior of microcellular polystyrene foams processed in supercritical carbon dioxide

Microcellular polystyrene foams have been prepared using supercritical carbon dioxide as the foaming agent. The cellular structures resulting from this process have been shown to have a significant effect on the corresponding mechanical properties of the foams. Compression tests were performed on highly expanded foams having oriented, anisotropic cells. For these materials an anisotropic foam model can be used to predict the effect of cell size and shape on the compressive yield stress. Beyond yield, the foams deformed heterogeneously under a constant stress. Microstructural investigations of the heterogeneous deformation indicate that the dominant mechanisms are progressive microcellular collapse followed by foam densification. The phenomenon is compared to the development of a stable neck commonly observed in polymers subjected to uniaxial tension, and a model that describes the densification process is formulated from simple energy balance considerations.