cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus in Mixed Infection

Bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) is classified in the Pestivirus genus within the Flaviviridae family, which also contains the Flavivirus and Hepacivirus genera. Infection of cattle with BVDV induces three disease conditions that range from clinically inapparent to clinically severe. The conditions are termed as congenital persistent infection, mucosal disease, and acute bovine viral diarrhea (BVD). Mucosal disease is a sequel of congenital persistent infection and is caused by a “mixed” infection of noncytopathic BVDV and cytopathic BVDV. Acute BVD occurs after birth and is induced by primary postnatal infection with either cytopathic or noncytopathic BVDV. Acute BVDV may result in respiratory, enteric, and/or reproductive disease. The severity of disease varies from clinically inapparent to fatal and depends on the virulence of the viral strain, physical and environmental stressors, and intercurrent infection with other pathogens. During acute or persistent infection with BVDV, viral replication occurs in a variety of cell types located in the integument, alimentary canal, nervous system, respiratory tract, and immune system. Although many cell types are permissive for viral replication, BVDV has a predilection for cells of the immune system. Viral replication in lymphoid cells may directly, or indirectly, alter immune function and enhance severity of disease during mixed infections of BVDV or mixed infections of BVDV with other pathogens. This chapter provides examples of mixed infections involving BVDV, and discusses the role BVDV may have in enhancing disease processes during a mixed infection.
Tim62, a Novel Mitochondrial Protein in Trypanosoma brucei, Is Essential for Assembly and Stability of the TbTim17 Protein Complex

Trypanosoma brucei, the causative agent of human African trypanosomiasis, possesses non-canonical mitochondrial protein import machinery. Previously, we characterized the essential translocase of the mitochondrial inner membrane (TIM) consisting of Tim17 in T. brucei. TbTim17 is associated with TbTim62. Here we show that TbTim62, a novel protein, is localized in the mitochondrial inner membrane, and its import into mitochondria depends on TbTim17. Knockdown (KD) of TbTim62 decreased the steady-state levels of TbTim17 post-transcriptionally. Further analysis showed that import of TbTim17 into mitochondria was not inhibited, but its half-life was reduced >4-fold due to TbTim62 KD. Blue-native gel electrophoresis revealed that TbTim62 is present primarily in ∼150-kDa and also in ∼1100-kDa protein complexes, whereas TbTim17 is present in multiple complexes within the range of ∼300 to ∼1100 kDa. TbTim62 KD reduced the levels of both TbTim62 as well as TbTim17 protein complexes. Interestingly, TbTim17 was accumulated as lower molecular mass complexes in TbTim62 KD mitochondria. Furthermore, depletion of TbTim62 hampered the assembly of the ectopically expressed TbTim17–2X-myc into TbTim17 protein complex. Co-immunoprecipitation analysis revealed that association of TbTim17 with mHSP70 was markedly reduced in TbTim62 KD mitochondria. All together our results demonstrate that TbTim62, a unique mitochondrial protein in T. brucei, is required for the formation of a stable TbTim17 protein complex. TbTim62 KD destabilizes this complex, and unassembled TbTim17 degrades. Therefore, TbTim62 acts as a novel regulatory factor to maintain the levels of TIM in T. brucei mitochondria.
The Great Imitator: Ocular Syphilis Presenting as Posterior Uveitis.

Patient: Female, 34 Final Diagnosis: Ocular syphilis Symptoms: Painful unilateral vision loss Medication: Benzylpenicillin Clinical Procedure: Lumbar puncture Specialty: Infectious Diseases • Ophthalmology Objective: Rare disease Background: Syphilis is often known as the “Great Imitator”. The differential diagnosis of posterior uveitis is broad with ocular syphilis being particularly challenging to diagnose as it presents similarly to other ocular conditions such as acute retinal necrosis. Case Report: A 34-year-old woman with multiple sexual partners over the past few years presented with painful and progressively worsening unilateral vision loss for 2 weeks. Several months prior, she had reported non-specific symptoms of headache and diffuse skin rash. Despite treatment with oral acyclovir for 3 weeks, her vision progressively declined, and she was referred to the university ophthalmology clinic for further evaluation. On examination, there was concern for acute retinal necrosis and she was empirically treated with parenteral acyclovir while awaiting further infectious disease study results. Workup ultimately revealed ocular syphilis, and neurosyphilis was additionally confirmed with cerebrospinal fluid studies. Treatment with intravenous penicillin was promptly initiated with complete visual recovery. Conclusions: Ocular syphilis varies widely in presentation and should be considered in all patients with posterior uveitis, especially with a history of headache and skin rashes. However, given that acute retinal necrosis is a more common cause of posterior uveitis and can rapidly result in permanent vision loss, it should be empirically treated whenever it is suspected while simultaneous workup is conducted to evaluate for alternative diagnoses.
Modelling of UAV flight dynamics using perceptron artificial neural networks

The methodology of modelling flight dynamics of UAV using perceptron artificial neural networks has been presented. The modelling is based on experimental data recorded during flight characteristic and performance tests of UAVs that is a part of a set to give training to anti-aircraft artillery. The artificial neural network structure in ąuasi-static and dynamic flights have been given. The accuracy indexes also have been given.
Morphological relations between the receptor neurons, sustentacular cells and Schwann cells in the olfactory mucosa of the salamander

The morphological characteristics of olfactory receptor neurons and their relations to the sustentacular cells and to the sheath cells of Schwann in the olfactory mucosa of the salamander (Ambystoma maculatum et tigrinum) were studied using a modification of the rapid Golgi technique. The bipolar receptor neurons had a fusiform-shaped cell body whose apical pole gave rise to a surface-reachig dendrite and a basal pole which gave rise to an axon. The length and width of the dendrite, although variable, were positively correlated with the relative depth at which the cell body was located in the sensory epithelium. Beyond the initial segment, the axon had a sinuos course prior to its entrance into the lamina propria. Within the lamina propria, the axons were associated with the sheath cells of Schwann to for the olfactory nerve fascicles. The processes of adjacent sheath cells formed an elaborate network of continous cavities through which the axons coursed. Two morphologically distinct varieties of sustentacular cells, designated types I and II, were found in the sensory epithelium. Both types had a columnar profile cnsisting of an elongated cell body, a central stalk, and a basilar expansion of the stalk found at the junction of the epithelium with the lamina propria. The central stalk of type I sustentacular cells was unbranched, whereas that of type II cells gave rise to riblike processes from which cytoplasmic veils extended to envelop the cell bodies of receptor neurons. The basilar expansions were found in close apposition to the wall of capillaries or to acinar cells of Bowman's glands located in the most superficial region of the lamina propria. The morphological relationships and possible interdependencies among receptor neurons, the types of sustentacular cells, and the sheath cells are discussed.
Amniotic fluid α-fetorotein levels and pregnancy outcome

Elevated and low levels of maternal serum α-fetoprotein in the midtrimester of pregnancy have been linked with, adverse events in later gestation, such as fetal and neonatal deaths, chromosomal abnormalities, and low birth weight infants. It is not known if this same association with poor pregnancy outcome is also true of amniotic fluid α-fetoprotein. In this study, α-fetoprotein was obtained from the fluid of 1060 women undergoing genetic amniocentesis for advanced maternal age. Poor pregnancy outcome was defined as (1) a fetal or neonatal death, (2) preterm delivery; or (3) low birth weight infants. Amniotic fluid α-fetoprotein was compared to each type of adverse outcome. No significant association with a poor pregnancy outcome in later gestation was noted. Although serum α-fetoprotein in the midtrimester of pregnancy may relate to certain poor outcomes in later gestation, midtrimester amniotic fluid α-fetoprotein offers no predictive value for the course of events in later gestation.
Treatment of a Basilar Artery Occlusion with Intra-arterial Thrombolysis in a 3-year-old Girl

Posterior circulation stroke attributable to basilar artery thrombosis is a rare entity and is difficult to diagnose in young children. Given the high rate of disability and mortality associated with the condition, endovascular revascularization may be a potential treatment strategy. We describe a 3-year-old girl who presented with a decline in consciousness associated with tonic and clonic movements of her extremities thought to be secondary to a seizure. She was found to have a basilar artery occlusion 18 h from last known to be normal and was successfully treated with intra-arterial alteplase. At 6 month follow up the child has made substantial improvements and is in preschool with difficulties with ambulating longer distances. We report the youngest patient in the literature to date who was treated with intra-arterial thrombolysis for an acute basilar artery occlusion.
Two‐step Al/Ti metallization to PtSi/Si structures

A two‐step Al metallization procedure to prevent Al degradation of PtSi/Si Schottky barrier characteristics has been evaluated using Al3Ti as the kinetic barrier to the consumption of Ti. In the first step a thin Al layer is deposited on a Ti layer on PtSi/Si and is heated to the standard metallization process temperature of 450–500 °C. The Al and Ti thicknesses are chosen so that the Al is consumed to form Al3Ti with Ti remaining between the aluminide and silicide. In the second step a thick layer of Al, compatible with interconnect requirements, is deposited and annealed at temperatures around 350 °C. The formation rate of Al3Ti at this temperature is sufficiently low that consumption of Ti is minimal and the electrical characteristic of the PtSi/Si contact is preserved.
Regulatory Forum Opinion Piece* Transgenic/Alternative Carcinogenicity Assays: A Retrospective Review of Studies Submitted to CDER/FDA 1997–2014

The International Conference on Harmonization (ICH; S1B of 1997) allows a second species carcinogenicity study to be an alternative to one of the traditional 2-year studies. In the past 17 years, the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research’s (CDER) Executive Carcinogenicity Assessment Committee received 269 alternative carcinogenicity assay protocols for review. This committee’s recommendations regarding choice of animal model and dose selection are generally followed by sponsors conducting these studies to increase the acceptability of such studies. The P53+/− assay is generally considered appropriate for genotoxic products, and the TgRasH2 assay is appropriate for non-genotoxic or genotoxic drugs. In the United States, the TgAC assay is not used any more and the animals are no longer available. The TgAC assay can detect both tumor promoters and complete carcinogens, and consequently more than half of the dermal TgAC assays resulted in a positive assessment. Currently, more than 75% of mouse carcin...
A retrospective evaluation of the role of T cells in the development of malaria vaccine

Due to the fact that the life cycle of malaria parasites is complex, undergoing both an extracellular and intracellular phases in its host, the human immune system has to mobilize both the humoral and cellular arms of immune responses to fight against this parasitic infection. Whereas humoral immunity is directed toward the extracellular stages which include sporozoites and merozoites, cell-mediated immunity (CMI), in which T cells play a major role, targets hepatic stages - liver stages - of the parasites. In this review, the role of T cells in protective immunity against liver stages of the malaria infection is being re-evaluated. Furthermore, this review intends to address how to translate the findings regarding the role of T cells obtained in experimental systems to actual development of malaria vaccine for humans.
A practical methodology for defining histograms for predictions and scheduling.

Current distributed parallel platforms can provide the resources required to execute a scientific application efficiently. However, when these platforms are shared by multiple users, the performance of the applications using the system may be impacted in dynamic and often unpredictable ways. Performance prediction becomes increasingly difficult due to this dynamic behavior. Even performance modeling techniques that are built specifically for distributed parallel systems often require parameterization by single (point) values. However, in shared environments, point values may provide an inaccurate representation of application behavior due to variations in resource performance. This paper addresses the use of practical histogram stochastic values to parameterize performance models. Whereas a point value provides a single value representation of a quantity, a stochastic value provides a set of possible values to represent a range of likely behavior. In previous work we investigated using either normal distributions or an upper and lower bound to represent stochastic data. In this work we examine using a combination of those methods, namely histograms, to represent this data. We define a practical approach to using histograms in a production setting, and then give experimental results for a set of applications under different load conditions. A Practical Methodology for Defining Histograms for Predictions and Scheduling Jennifer M. Schopf Computer Science Department Northwestern University jms@cs.nwu.edu
Biomarker Testing for Ovarian Cancer: Clinical Utility of Multiplex Assays

The improved detection of ovarian cancer at the earliest stages of development would confer a significant benefit in the therapeutic efficacy and overall survival associated with this devastating disease. The inadequate performance of currently used imaging modalities and the CA 125 biomarker test have precluded the establishment of screening programs and hindered the development of diagnostic tests for ovarian cancer. Two recently completed large clinical trials of ovarian cancer screening have reported findings of mixed impact, further clouding the issue. Considerable effort has been applied to the development of multiplexed biomarker-based tests and the most recent advances are discussed here. Within the clinical setting of pelvic mass differential diagnosis and triage, several significant advancements have been achieved recently, including the US Food and Drug Administration-approved Risk of Ovarian Malignancy Algorithm and OVA1 tests. The development and evaluation of those tests are described in this review. Thus while effective routine screening for ovarian cancer remains a lofty goal, advancement within the clinical management of pelvic mass diagnoses appears to be near at hand.
The Atlantic multidecadal oscillation and extreme daily precipitation over the US and Mexico during the hurricane season

The tail of the distribution of daily precipitation for August–September–October was examined over the United States and Mexico in relation to the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO). As expected from previous studies linking the AMO to hurricane activity, Florida and the coastal Southeast US showed an increase in precipitation intensity when the Atlantic was in a warm phase (AMO+). Also during AMO+ Northwest Mexico was dry and exhibited a reduction of extreme events and the Mid-Atlantic Appalachian Mountains showed evidence of an increase in heavy precipitation compared to when the Atlantic was cool. It is proposed that the aforementioned decadal variations in extreme rainfall are forced by changes in the large-scale surface winds and air temperature in conjunction with the AMO. Namely, an anomalous cyclonic circulation is observed off the Southeast coast, leading to a reduction of moisture flux into the decaying North American monsoon, and an increase in moisture flux into the Mid-Atlantic. Further, the Mid-Atlantic shows a relatively strong increase in the mid-tropospheric lapse rate. Thus, the unique combination of low-level humidity, potential instability, and elevated topography are consistent with an enhanced risk of intense rainfall during AMO+.
The Ethics of Sports Coaching

Alun R. Hardman and Carwyn Jones (eds), The Ethics of Sports Coaching. London and New York: Routledge, 2011. Pp. 222. US$55.95 (pb), $149 (hb). ISBNs 978-0-415-55774-0 (hb); 978-0-415-55775-7 (pb);...
The performance of high order modulation QAM-OFDM in the presence mutipath fading channels

The limited amount frequency spectrum available to wireless communication systems makes it difficult to satisfy the rapidly growing demand for wireless service. Spectral efficiency can be increased by using higher order modulation schemes. However this come at the cost of increased probability of error. In this paper we investigate through MATLAB simulation, the implementation of orders of Quadrature Amplitude Modulation (QAM) more commonly used in wired networks. The BER performance of 256, 512, 1024, 2048, and 4096 QAM-Orthogonal Frequency Division Mutiplexing(OFDM) signals in the presence of Rayleigh and Rician multipath channels with additive white Gaussian noise are simulated.
From an Inactive Prokaryotic SOD Homologue to an Active Protein through Site-Directed Mutagenesis.

It is known that several prokaryotic protein sequences, characterized by high homology with the eukaryotic Cu,ZnSODs, lack some of the metal ligands. In the present work, we have stepwise reintroduced the two missing copper ligands in the SOD-like protein of Bacillus subtilis, through site-directed mutagenesis. The mutant with three out of the four His that bind copper is not active, whereas the fully reconstituted mutant displays an activity of about 10% that of human Cu,ZnSOD. The mutated proteins have been characterized in solution and in the solid state. In solution, the proteins experience conformational disorder, which is believed to be partly responsible for the decreased enzymatic activity and sheds light on the tendency of several human SOD mutants to introduce mobility in the protein frame. In the crystal, on the contrary, the protein has a well-defined conformation, giving rise to dimers through the coordination of an exogenous zinc ion. The catalytic properties of the double mutant, which might be regarded as a step in an artificial evolution from a nonactive SOD to a fully functioning enzyme, are discussed on the basis of the structural and dynamical properties.
Molecular simulation of compressive failure in poly(p-phenylene teraphthalamide) crystals

Molecular mechanics simulations are carried out on crystals of poly(p-phenylene teraphthalamide) (PPTA) as a function of an applied axial compressive stress. The vibrational frequencies of the long wavelength acoustic modes which propagate along the chain axis and are polarized perpendicular to the plane of the hydrogen-bonded sheets are found to become imaginary when the imposed stress exceeds the modulus for shear between hydrogen-bonded sheets. The imaginary frequencies denote an elastic buckling instability. This instability occurs at a compressive stress of 0.3 GPa, in good agreement with the experimental result for the stress which causes material failure in PPTA fibres. It is suggested that previous overestimates of compressive strengths based on elastic buckling models occurred due to the use of the torsion modulus as the relevant shear modulus; however, the torsion modulus is not relevant because it represents an average of shear moduli in different directions, while elastic buckling takes place along the direction of easiest shear.
A Monoclonal Antibody to a Carbohydrate Epitope Expressed on Glycolipid and on α3β1 Integrin on Human Esophageal Carcinoma

A mouse monoclonal antibody (MAb-9) produced by immunization with a human esophageal carcinoma cell line, TE-2 (derived from undifferentiated squamous cell carcinoma) reacted specifically with about 30% of esophageal carcinoma cell lines and tissue sections from clinical samples. MAb-9 showed minimal reactivity with normal esophageal tissue. 125I, fluorescent or gold particle labeled MAb-9 bound to TE-2 cell surfaces. 125I-radiolabeled MAb-9 was used to detect reactive material from cell extracts in Western blot. Treatment of TE-2 membrane proteins with neuraminidase, N-glycanase or O-glycanase reduced antigen detection. Treatment of cells with periodic acid destroyed antibody binding in ELISA. Lipid extracts from cell membranes, containing glycolipids, also reacted with MAb-9. MAb-9 was used to purify target antigen from detergent solubilized membrane proteins and the prominent bands from subsequent gel electrophoresis were trypsin digested and analyzed by mass spectrometry. Peptides from α3 and β1 integ...
Normocalcemic parathormone elevation after successful parathyroidectomy: Long-term analysis of parathormone variations over 10 years

Background The long-term significance of normocalcemic parathormone elevation (NPE) after successful parathyroidectomy for sporadic primary hyperparathyroidism remains unclear. Method Of 239 consecutive patients who underwent targeted parathyroidectomy with intraoperative parathormone monitoring, 96 were followed for ≥10 years. NPE was defined as a normal serum calcium level and parathormone (PTH) above the normal reference range ≥6 months after successful parathyroidectomy. Recurrence was defined as elevated serum calcium and PTH levels ≥6 months after parathyroidectomy. Risk factors for NPE, patterns of postoperative PTH variation, and 10-year outcomes were analyzed. Results Of 96 patients followed ≥10 years, 42 had postoperative NPE. Only male gender ( P = .008) was a risk factor for NPE, and NPE did not predict recurrence. Three patterns of postoperative NPE were identified in patients with ≥3 PTH measurements over this 10-year period. Group 1 ( n = 11): 1 to 2 consecutive PTH elevations; none recurred, and most were explained by physiologic variation. Group 2 ( n = 23): multiple PTH fluctuations; 3 recurred, and almost all had physiologic variations. Group 3 ( n = 4): PTH always elevated; 2 recurred. Conclusion Postoperative NPE may be a dynamic, reversible, and transient clinical entity that does not predict recurrence. Nevertheless, patients with postoperative NPE should be monitored and an attempt made to correct any obvious potential causes of PTH elevation.
The long-run effect of part-time work

Unlike most of the literature concerning the effects of nonstandard work, we examine the long-term impact of part-time work. Our main focus is on earnings and several important benefits. As might be expected, voluntary part-time work while in school increases earnings of both women and men, whereas involuntary part-time work has no significant impact. Surprisingly, however, voluntary part-time work while not in school has a substantial positive effect for women but is not significant for men. Furthermore, we find that the provision of health insurance, profit-sharing, defined-benefit and defined-contribution plans is primarily determined by factors other than work experience.
The influence of the informal social learning environment on information privacy policy compliance efficacy and intention

Throughout the world, sensitive personal information is now protected by regulatory requirements that have translated into significant new compliance oversight responsibilities for IT managers who ...
GM2 Ganglioside as a Regulator of Pyramidal Neuron Dendritogenesisa

One of the most profound events in the life of a neuron in the mammalian CNS is the development of a characteristic dendritic tree, yet little is understood about events controlling this process. Pyramidal neurons of the cerebral cortex are known to undergo a single explosive burst of dendritic sprouting immediately after completing migration to the cortical mantle, and following maturation there is no evidence that new, primary dendrites are initiated. Yet in one group of rare genetic diseases--Tay-Sachs disease and related neuronal storage disorders--cortical pyramidal neurons undergo a second period of dendritogenesis. New dendritic membrane is generated principally at the axon hillock and in time is covered with normal-appearing spines and synapses. In our studies of normal brain development and storage diseases we consistently find one feature in common in cortical pyramidal neurons undergoing active dendritogenesis: They exhibit dramatically increased expression of GM2 ganglioside localized to cytoplasmic vacuoles within neuronal perikarya and proximal dendrites. There is also evidence that the increase in GM2 precedes dendritic spouting, and that after dendritic maturation is complete (in normal brain) the GM2 levels in neurons become substantially reduced. These findings are consistent with GM2 ganglioside playing a pivotal role in the regulation of dendritogenesis in cortical pyramidal neurons.
The increasing number of clinical items addressed during the time of adult primary care visits.

Primary care physicians report that there is insufficient time to meet patients’ needs during clinical visits, but visit time has increased over the past decade. To determine whether the number of clinical items addressed during the primary care visit has increased, and if so, whether this has been associated with changes in visit length and the pace of clinical work. Analysis of non-hospital-based adult primary care visits from 1997 to 2005, as reported in the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey. A total of 46,431 adult primary care visits. We assessed changes over time for the total number of clinical items addressed per visit (including diagnoses, medications, tests ordered, and counseling), visit duration, and average available time per clinical item. In adjusted analyses we controlled for patient and physician characteristics. The number of clinical items addressed per visit increased from 5.4 to 7.1 from 1997 to 2005 (p < 0.001). Visit duration concurrently increased from 18.0 to 20.9 min (p < 0.001). The increase in the number of clinical items outpaced the increase in duration, resulting in a decrease in time per clinical item from 4.4 to 3.8 (p = 0.04). These changes occurred across patient age and payer status and were confirmed in adjusted analyses. The volume of work associated with primary care visits has increased to a greater extent than has visit duration, resulting in less available time to address individual items. These findings have important implications for reimbursing physician time and improving the quality of care.
Mutation of environmental mycobacteria to resist silver nanoparticles also confers resistance to a common antibiotic

Non-tuberculous mycobacteria are a threat to human health, gaining entry to the body through contaminated water systems, where they form persistent biofilms despite extensive attempts at disinfection. Silver is a natural antibacterial agent and in nanoparticle form activity is increased by a high surface area. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have been used as alternative disinfectants in circulating water systems, washing machines and even clothing. However, nanoparticles, like any other antibiotic that has a pervasive durable presence, carry the risk of creating a resistant population. In this study Mycobacterium smegmatis strain mc2155 was cultured in AgNP enriched agar such that only a small population survived. Surviving cultures were isolated and re-exposed to AgNPs and AgNO3 and resistance to silver was compared to a negative control. After only a single exposure, mutant M. smegmatis populations were resistant to AgNPs and AgNO3. Further, the silver resistant mutants were exposed to antibiotics to determine if general resistance had been conferred. The minimum inhibitory concentration of isoniazid was four times higher for silver resistant mutants than for strain mc2155. However, core resistance was not conferred to other toxic metal ions. The mutants had lower resistance to CuSO4 and ZnSO4 than the mc2155 strain.
Treatment of recurrent vesicourethral anastomotic stricture after radical prostatectomy with endourethroplasty

We report our experience with successful treatment of 2 cases of severe recurrent vesicourethral anastomotic stricture after radical prostatectomy with endourethroplasty. Both patients had multiple failures of conventional treatments but have been free of stricture recurrence after endourethroplasty with 11 and 25 months follow-up, respectively. Follow-up urethroscopy showed open anastomotic segments with epithelialization after endourethroplasty in both patients. The patient who was continent prior to endourethroplasty remained continent afterward.
Intersection multiplicity over noncommutative algebras

Abstract In this paper, we will prove Serre's multiplicity conjectures for large class of connected algebras (not necessarily commutative), using the intersection multiplicity defined by Ext groups instead of Tor groups. Since this new definition of the intersection multiplicity agrees with classical Serre's definition for nice commutative rings, the result is a noncommutative version of that of Peskine and Szpiro. The result also applies to noncommutative filtered algebras in certain situations.
Deuterium on Venus: Model comparisons with pioneer Venus observations of the predawn bulge ionosphere

A self-consistent model of the Venus ionosphere in the predawn bulge region where the mass-two ion density is observed to be maximum was prepared in order to examine the question of mass-two ion identification in detail. The model calculations are compared to the Pioneer Venus observations of ion composition and structure in the 153-250 km altitude range. The observed densities of major ions O2(+) and O(+) are used to constrain the source of ionization. Once the source is determined, the density distribution of D(+) and H2(+) is calculated for various values of D and H2 in the atmosphere. It is found that mass-two ion is clearly due to deuterium and that the H2 contribution to the mass-two ion is small, if present at all.
Electron microscope study of developing chick embryo aorta.

The fine structure of developing chick embryo aortas (incubation ages 7–18 days) was studied with the electron microscope and with phase contrast microscopy after PAS and resorcin—fuchsin staining. Underneath the uninterrupted endothelium the cells of the tunica media develop in regular concentric layers which are separated by alternating layers containing extracellular fibers. In the younger embryos all these cells are considered fibroblasts, actively engaged in fibrogenesis, whereas in older embryos some of these cells appear to be transformed into smooth muscle cells. The fibroblasts are characterized by a highly organized endoplasmic reticulum, and there are indications of accumulated material, presumably proteinaceous precursors of collagen and elastin within the “lumen” of the reticulum. The possible ways through which this material is released into the extracellular spaces are discussed. Collagen fibrogenesis occurs in connection with “tufts” of filamentous material located at the cell surface outside of the intact plasma membrane. Subsequently, the fibril diameters increase. Elastin fibrogenesis, which probably consists of the deposition of an amorphous material around thin filaments, may occur at the cell surface or at some distance from the cell. Thin extracellular filaments which occur along with, but “independent” of collagen and elastin may or may not represent a form of collagen. Other recognizable extracellular structures are certain small particles and certain larger granules. RNP particles definitely seem to be released by the cells along with the dilated vacuolar units of endoplasmic reticulum. The larger granules, on the other hand, appear to originate from lipid inclusions within the cytoplasm.
The thermoelastic patch contact problem for large Peclet number

An equation in the form of a Fourier series was derived in an earlier study to give displacements of the originally straight edge of a plate as the result of a small heat input patch moving at speed c along that edge. That unwieldly formulation is reduced to a simple integral equation, which is shown to be manageable in an example calculation. The integral equation is shown to be closely related to that of Ling and Mow, although it is much simpler to use. Comparison of the results of the simplification to results of the original series formulation suggest that the equation proposed for 'high Peclet number' may be a valid approximation for Peclet number as low as 2.5.
Effectiveness of a Creative Arts Summer Camp: Benefits of a Short-Term, Intensive Program on Children’s Social Behaviors and Relationships

This pilot study evaluated whether a creative arts therapy program delivered through a 2-week summer day camp benefited children’s support networks and improved their general wellness. Camp staff completed ratings on the behavior of 11 children. Eleven parents (10 mothers) completed ratings on their children’s behavior. Surveys were utilized; data were analyzed using Wilcoxon t tests. Results demonstrated that camp staff observed the most significant improvements in children’s behaviors and relationships. Results of this study indicate that a social skills therapy program delivered through a creative arts summer camp can be beneficial to young children. Furthermore, these results were found during an intense, yet brief, period of time.
How should we design studies for stroke prevention

1. Barnett HJM, Taylor DW, Eliasziw M, et al. The benefit of carotid endarterectomy in patients with symptomatic moderate or severe stenosis. N Engl J Med. 1998;339:1415-1425. 2. Executive Committee for the Asymptomatic Carotid Atherosclerosis Study (ACAS). Endarterectomy for asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis. JAMA. 1995;273:1421-1428. 3. North American Symptomatic Carotid Endarterectomy Trial Collaborators. Beneficial effect of carotid endarterectomy in symptomatic patients with high-grade carotid stenosis. N Engl J Med. 1991; 325:445-453. 4. Hass WK, Easton JD, Adams HP, et al. A randomized trial comparing ticlopidine hydrochloride with aspirin for the prevention of stroke in high risk patients. N Engl J Med. 1989;321:501507. 5. Easton JD. What have we learned from recent antiplatelet trials? Neurology. 1998;51(suppl 3): S36-S38. 6. Klag MJ, Whelton TK, Seidler AJ. Decline in US stroke mortality demographic trends on antihypertensive treatment. Stroke. 1989;20:14-21. 7. Wolf PA, D’Agostino RV, O’Neal A, et al. Secular trends in stroke incidence and mortality: The Framingham Study. Stroke. 1992;23:15511555. 8. Randomized trial of endarterectomy for recently symptomatic carotid stenosis: final results of the MRC European Carotid Surgery Trial. Lancet. 1998; 351:1379-1387. 9. Hobson RW II, Weiss DG, Fields WS, et al, for the Veterans Affairs Asymptomatic Cooperative Study Group. Efficacy of carotid endarterectomy for asymptomatic carotid stenosis. N Engl J Med. 1993;328:221-227. 10. Hobson RW. CREST (Carotid Revascularization Endarterectomy versus Stent Trial): background, design, and current status. Semin Vasc Surg. 2000;13:139-143.
An extended AVHRR 8‐km NDVI dataset compatible with MODIS and SPOT vegetation NDVI data

Daily daytime Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR) 4‐km global area coverage data have been processed to produce a Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) 8‐km equal‐area dataset from July 1981 through December 2004 for all continents except Antarctica. New features of this dataset include bimonthly composites, NOAA‐9 descending node data from August 1994 to January 1995, volcanic stratospheric aerosol correction for 1982–1984 and 1991–1993, NDVI normalization using empirical mode decomposition/reconstruction to minimize varying solar zenith angle effects introduced by orbital drift, inclusion of data from NOAA‐16 for 2000–2003 and NOAA‐17 for 2003–2004, and a similar dynamic range with the MODIS NDVI. Two NDVI compositing intervals have been produced: a bimonthly global dataset and a 10‐day Africa‐only dataset. Post‐processing review corrected the majority of dropped scan lines, navigation errors, data drop outs, edge‐of‐orbit composite discontinuities, and other artefacts in the compos...
The postwar rise and decline of American fertility: the pace of transition to motherhood among 1950-1969 marital cohorts of white women.

Data were taken from the National Survey of Family Growth (NSFG) 1973 to explore the influence of a number of variables on the length of the 1st birth interval and to compare the influence of determinants on the length of the 1st birth interval across marriage cohorts of 5 year duration -- 1950-54 1955-59 1960-64 and 1965-69. The cohort historical model suggested by Ryder (1965) was utilized. The NSFG sample is a stratified multistage probability sample containing marital and birth histories and numerous background characteristics for 9800 women in the 15-44 age group interviewed between July 1973 and February 1974. The sample consists of ever-married women and never-married women with children of their own in the household. The 1st stage of analysis involved preliminary life table analysis. The 2nd stage of analysis used multivariate life table techniques to examine the effects of independent variables on the 1st birth interval. The 3rd stage examines the hypothesis that the effects of the 1st birth interval vary across cohorts. The women who were married during 1955-59 had their 1st child earlier than the rest in this study. The heightened fertility during this period was due in part to the fast transition to motherhood from wifehood among the 1955-59 marital cohort. Among the sample women the 1965-69 cohort delayed having a birth the longest. Across cohorts the category of college-educated women increased its 1st birth interval. The 1st birth interval was influenced by several social and demographic variables. The net effects of the following variables were significant: marital cohort; work experience after marriage; age at marriage; religion; medium religiosity; farm background of the husband; use of contraception; and less-than-high-school-educated women. The 1965-69 cohort of married working women differed significantly in its childbearing decisions over its counterparts in the 1950-54 cohort. The 1965-69 cohort of married working women was relatively more committed to working and delays of childbearing were characterized by changes in the significance of "work" in married womens lives. Many period factors may have contributed to these changes in work commitment. The married working women as a category contributed to the pattern of delayed childbearing. The empirical findings of this study favor cohort-based theories of fertility change over a purely period-based explanation. To some extent the study findings support the theoretical argument that historical experiences of the marital cohorts the changes in the social and demographic composition of the cohorts determine the pace of childbearing among white American women during 1950-69. During 1965-60 environmental factors supported a delay in the birth of the 1st child among working women.
Forskolin-Induced Differentiation of Cultured Rat Granulosa Cells: New Evidence for an Intermediary Role of Adenosine 3′,5′-Monophosphate in the Mechanism of Action of Follicle-Stimulating Hormone*

The intermediary role of cAMP in the mechanism of action of FSH was reinvestigated in vitro using forskolin, a highly specific adenylate cyclase probe. Granulosa cells from immature hypophysectomized diethylstilbestrol-treated rats were cultured for 3 days in the absence or presence of forskolin. Treatment with increasing concentrations (10−7-10−4 M) of forskolin led to dose-dependent increments in the accumulation of extracellular cAMP, with an apparent median effective dose of 1.6 ± 0.5 × 10−5 M. Concomitant blockade of cAMP phosphodiesterase activity further enhanced the forskolin effect. Treatment with forskolin also brought about dose- and time-dependent increments in progesterone and estrogen accumulation. Granulosa cells not pretreated with forskolin displayed negligible LH/hCG binding and remained unresponsive to luteotropic (LH/hCG), /32-adrenergic (terbutaline), or lactogenic (PRL) stimulation. In contrast, forskolin (10−5 M)-pretreated granulosa cells displayed significant increases over contro...
Dissolved organic matter (DOM) concentration and quality in a forested mid-Atlantic watershed, USA

Understanding the quantity and quality of dissolved organic matter (DOM) in potential watershed sources is critical for explaining and quantifying the exports of DOM in stream runoff. Here, we examined the concentration and quality of DOM for ten watershed sources in a 12 ha forested catchment over a two-year period. DOM composition was evaluated for: throughfall, litter leachate, soil water (zero and tension), shallow and deep groundwater, stream water, hyporheic zone, and groundwater seeps. DOM quality was measured using a suite of optical indices including UV–visible absorbance and PARAFAC modeling of fluorescence excitation-emission matrices (EEMs). DOM concentrations and quality displayed a pronounced trend across watershed sources. Surficial watershed sources had higher DOM concentrations and more humic-like DOM with higher molecular weight whereas deeper groundwater sources were rich in % protein-like fluorescence. The greater % contribution of protein-like fluorescence in groundwater suggested that a larger fraction of groundwater DOM may be bioavailable. DOM for wetland groundwater was more aromatic and humic-like than that at the well-drained riparian location. Principal component analyses (PCA) revealed that the differences in surficial watershed compartments were dictated by humic-like components while groundwater sources separated out by % protein-like fluorescence. Observations from optical indices did not provide any conclusive evidence for preferential association of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) or dissolved organic nitrogen (DON) with any particular DOM quality pools.
Point-of-Care Ultrasound and the Rapid Response System

Over the years, the use of ultrasound has moved solely from the domain of the radiologist to that of the intensivist and emergentologist for use in acute care settings. By virtue of its ease of use and rapid learning curve to proficiency, we are now seeing an increased desire by internists to learn the modality and apply it at the patient's bedside. The rapid response system represents a rational starting point for the introduction of point-of-care ultrasound to the inpatient ward setting.
Computer-Assisted Volumetric Analysis Compared With ABC/2 Method for Assessing Warfarin-Related Intracranial Hemorrhage Volumes

Intraparenchymal hemorrhage (IPH) volume is a powerful predictor of 30-day mortality. Warfarin-related intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) has a higher mortality than ICH without anticoagulation, possibly due to continued growth after 24 h, larger average size, and extension to extraparenchymal compartments. We compared 2 methods of measuring ICH volume in patients with warfarin-related ICH. ICH volume was estimated using the ABC/2 method and a computer-assisted method (Analyze 6.0 software) applied to the initial head computed tomographic scans in a consecutive series of 8 patients with warfarin-related ICH. The 2 methods were compared for relative and absolute differences in estimated hematoma volumes. The ABC/2 method underestimated hematoma volume in 4 of 5 patients with IPH, inaccurately calculated intraventricular hemorrhage volume in 2 patients (overestimated by 9%, underestimated by 23%), and underestimated a complex subdural hematoma in 1 patient by 24% despite use of the Gebel modification. The mean percentage difference between the Analyze and ABC/2 methods was 24% in ellipsoid hemorrhages and 28% in nonellipsoid hemorrhages (P = 0.77). The mean of the absolute difference between the 2 methods was 6.7 cm3 in ellipsoid hemorrhages and 38.0 cm3 in nonellipsoid hemorrhages (P = 0.18). The ABC/2 method accurately and quickly estimates smaller, ellipsoid intraparenchymal hematomas but is inaccurate for larger, complex-shaped warfarin-related intraparenchymal, intraventricular, and subdural hematomas. Warfarin-related ICH mortality may be underestimated by the ABC/2 method because of larger, complex-shaped, and multicompartmental hematomas.
TFA: a large scale urban mesh network for social and network research

We have deployed a large-scale multi-tier wireless network in one of Houston's most economically disadvantaged neighborhoods. The network serves two objectives: empowering under-resourced communities with access to technology, education and work-at-home tools, and providing an unprecedented platform for research of wireless communication technologies. In this paper, we present the joint societal objectives of the network, its technical and economical properties, the obtained research results, and future research challenges.
Molecular cloning of the rat A2 adenosine receptor: selective co-expression with D2 dopamine receptors in rat striatum

A cDNA fragment homologous to other G protein-coupled receptors was isolated from rat brain using the PCR method and demonstrated to be abundantly expressed in striatum. Using this fragment as a probe, a 2.1 kb full-length cDNA was isolated from a rat striatal cDNA library. This cDNA encodes a protein of 410 amino acids and is highly homologous to previously isolated adenosine receptor cDNAs. Expression of this cDNA in COS cells revealed high affinity (Kd = 38.6 nM) and saturable binding of the A2 adenosine receptor-selective ligand [3H]CGS 21680. Agonist displacement profile of [3H]CGS 21680 binding was consistent with an adenosine receptor of the A2 subtype (NECA > (R)-PIA >CPA > (S)-PIA). In situ hybridization demonstrated that rat A2 adenosine receptor mRNA was co-expressed in the same striatal neurons as D2 dopamine receptor mRNA, and never co-expressed with striatal D1 dopamine receptor mRNA. Several lines of evidence have previously suggested that dopamine-induced changes in motor behavior can be modulated by adenosine analogs acting at the A2 subtype of adenosine receptor in the forebrain. The co-expression of D2 dopamine and A2 adenosine receptors in a subset of striatal cells provides an anatomical basis for dopaminergic-adenosinergic interactions on motor behavior.
Circular Dichroism Studies on Proteins in Films and in Solution: Estimation of Secondary Structure by g-Factor Analysis

Estimates of the secondary structure of a protein in solution are made by mathematical analyses of its circular dichroism (CD) spectrum below 240 nm. All current procedures require accurate determination of the concentration of the protein sample. Insoluble proteins, such as prions or amyloid, are examined as thin films or gels, but concentrations cannot be precisely defined. The ratio of a sample's CD and absorbance signals is the g-factor, an intensive property. The g-factor spectra of 19 soluble, unconjugated proteins of known structures were measured and used to derive basis spectra, characteristic of the four major structural elements, helix, sheet, turn, and remainder. Using these, the g-factor spectra of other unconjugated proteins, measured in solution or as films, can be analyzed by linear regression to give good estimates of their secondary structures when protein concentration cannot be determined.