cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A set of tRNAs that lack either the T psi C arm or the dihydrouridine arm: towards a minimal tRNA adaptor.

Abstract The mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) molecules of the nematode worms, Caenorhabditis elegans and Ascaris suum contain 22 putative genes for non-standard forms of tRNAs. The inferred transcripts can be folded into 20 separate structures each resembling a tRNA whose T psi C arm and variable loop are replaced with a simple loop of 6-12 nucleotides. In two further structures [that resemble tRNAs for ser(UCN) and ser(AGN)], the dihydrouridine arm is replaced by a loop of 5-8 nucleotides. By hybridizing mt-tRNA gene-specific oligonucleotide probes to nematode RNAs, we have obtained evidence for transcription of at least nine C.elegans and three A.suum mt-tRNA genes. Each transcript (tRNA) is the exact size predicted from the respective DNA sequence, to which three nucleotides, presumably CCA, have been added following transcription. An exception was C.elegans mt-tRNAasn, most molecules of which had one nucleotide (plus CCA) more than predicted from the gene. The data presented strongly support the conclusion that the functional mt-tRNAs of nematode worms are direct transcripts (with only CCA addition) of the structurally unusual mt-tRNA genes. There is no evidence of trans-splicing or RNA editing to add the sequences missing from these nonstandard tRNAs. We presume, therefore, that the non-standard forms are active in mitochondrial protein synthesis.
Purpuric Skin Manifestations Following the Use of Merbaphen

Excerpt Since the introduction of merbaphen as an antisyphilitic agent and a diuretic much attention has been directed to its toxic effects. These have been, in general, indicative of mercurial poi...
The Association of Exercise with Both Erectile and Sexual Function in Black and White Men

Abstract Introduction There is growing interest in using exercise to treat. Although many studies have highlighted the relationship between better erectile function and exercise, black men have been underrepresented in the literature. Aims This study aims to determine whether or not exercise is associated with better erectile as well as sexual function in black men and define a minimum exercise threshold for which better erectile/sexual function is seen in a cross-sectional study. Methods Our study population consisted of 295 healthy controls from a case-control study assessing risk factors for prostate cancer conducted at the Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, which contained a substantial proportion of black men (n = 93; 32%). Exercise and erectile/sexual function were both determined from self-reported questionnaires. Subjects were stratified into four exercise groups: Main Outcome Measures Erectile/sexual function was defined by the validated Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite sexual assessment, which was analyzed as a continuous variable (sexual function score). Clinically significant better function was defined as half a standard deviation (SD) (16.5 points). Results Median sexual function score was 53 (SD = 33). Higher exercise was associated with a better sexual function score ( P P -interaction = 0.772), meaning more exercise was linked with better erectile/sexual function regardless of race. Overall, exercise ≥18 MET hours/week predicted better erectile/sexual function ( P P > 0.147) or clinically (≤8.14 points higher function) associated with erectile/sexual function. Conclusions In a racially diverse population, exercise ≥18 MET hours/week is highly associated with better erectile/sexual function regardless of race. Simon RM, Howard L, Zapata D, Frank J, Freedland SJ, and Vidal AC. The association of exercise with both erectile and sexual function in black and white men. J Sex Med 2015;12:1202–1210.
Prostate specific antigen screening for prostate cancer: knowledge of, attitudes towards, and utilization among primary care physicians.

Abstract Objective Prostate specific antigen (PSA) screening for prostate cancer screening is not uniformly recommended by national organizations or primary care physicians (PCPs). Given this lack of consensus, we sought to identify patterns in physician knowledge of and attitudes towards PSA screening and to determine how these patterns along with patient and provider demographics influence PSA screening practices. Methods A self-administered questionnaire, which assessed provider's knowledge of prostate cancer, confidence in his/her knowledge, and PSA screening practices, was mailed to PCPs at an academic medical center. Frequencies of responses were summarized and 3 outcome variables (knowledge, confidence, and propensity to screen) were derived. Association of covariates with the outcome variables was determined using multivariable logistic regression. Results Eight-two (30.4%) physicians completed the survey; 98% identified African-American race as a prostate cancer risk factor, 42% identified digital rectal exam and PSA as the accepted screening method, and 59% underestimated the likelihood of prostate cancer in a man with a PSA level > 4 ng/ml; 19% were confident in their knowledge of prostate cancer; 86% screened fewer than 60% of their male patients over 50. A knowledge score above the median was not associated with a higher propensity to screen (r = 0.06, P = 0.61). Confidence in one's knowledge was correlated with ordering PSA testing (r = 0.33, P Conclusions Respondents correctly identified prostate cancer risk factors but were less knowledgeable about prostate cancer screening tests and overall prostate cancer risk. Most respondents were not confident in their knowledge and did not screen men over 50. Multiple patient- and provider-specific factors influence the decision to offer or not offer PSA screening.
Mood and behavioral disturbances in hospitalized AIDS patients.

A retrospective chart review of 127 patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) was undertaken to determine the rate of requests for psychiatric consultation. Thirty-six patients (28.3%) had received psychiatric consultations. This is similar to the rate of consultations seen in other studies. Patients who were not intravenous (iv) drug abusers were more likely to be seen for mood disturbances; iv drug users were more likely to be seen for behavior disturbances. The implications ofthesefindingsforfuture demands on consultation-liaison services for AIDS patients are discussed.
Estimation of component failure probability from masked binomial system testing data

The component failure probability estimates from analysis of binomial system testing data are very useful because they reflect the operational failure probability of components in the field which is similar to the test environment. In practice, this type of analysis is often confounded by the problem of data masking: the status of tested components is unknown. Methods in considering this type of uncertainty are usually computationally intensive and not practical to solve the problem for complex systems. In this paper, we consider masked binomial system testing data and develop a probabilistic model to efficiently estimate component failure probabilities. In the model, all system tests are classified into test categories based on component coverage. Component coverage of test categories is modeled by a bipartite graph. Test category failure probabilities conditional on the status of covered components are defined. An EM algorithm to estimate component failure probabilities is developed based on a simple but powerful concept: equivalent failures and tests. By simulation we not only demonstrate the convergence and accuracy of the algorithm but also show that the probabilistic model is capable of analyzing systems in series, parallel and any other user defined structures. A case study illustrates an application in test case prioritization.
Experimental Pedodontic Auxiliary Training Program

An experimental program on the training of auxiliary personnel to perform expanded functions was begun at the University of Minnesota division of pediatric dentistry in 1967. The objectives of the study were to determine personal and educational qualifications necessary for auxiliary trainees; to determine type and extent of training required for duties delegated; to compare quality and quantity of procedures performed by auxiliaries with performances of senior dental students; and to correlate quality of dental treatment rendered with trainees’ aptitude scores and grades. Experimental and control teams were arranged. Over a nine-month period, the experimental teams performed on the average 40% more procedures than the control teams. In general, there was no significant difference in the quality and speed of performance between the senior dental students and the auxiliaries.
Uyghur Language Textbooks: Competing Images of a Multi-Ethnic China

Abstract This article presents, translates, and analyses six Uyghur language textbooks that have been published in Urumqi during the People’s Republic of China’s Reform Era (1978–present). It will demonstrate that the representations of Uyghurs in these textbooks are not uniform; nor do they follow an “evolutionary” path. Rather, this article will show that the changes in the representations of Uyghurs exhibit a cycle of loosening (Ch. fang) and tightening (Ch. shou) in the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) policy vis-a-vis the Uyghurs, and, more broadly, tensions in the CCP’s imagining of China’s “dualistic yet unified” (Ch. duoyuan yiti) multi-ethnic composition. Furthermore, using Michael Apple’s (1992; 1996) concept of “official knowledge”, the article will argue that language textbooks in China should not be viewed merely as reflections of CCP political action but rather as apparatuses in which knowledge is constructed.
Mode of action of bottromycin A2: effect of bottromycin A2 on polysomes.

When bottromycin A2 was added to an in vitro protein synthesis system carried out by naturally occurring polysomes, it inhibited protein synthesis effectively. Examination of the 3 steps of peptide chain elongation revealed that the binding of aminoacyl-tRNA to the polyribosomes was inhibited by bottromycin A2. In contrast, we concluded that the peptide bond formation and the translocation steps in this system were not inhibited by bottromycin A2 on the basis of the following observation: (1) the break-down of polysomes, which is dependent of EFG, puromycin and RR (ribosome releasing) factor, was insensitive to bottromycin A2; (2) the puromycin dependent release of polypeptide from polysomes, with or without EFG, was not inhibited by bottromycin A2. Thus bottromycin specifically interferes with proper functioning of the A sites of polysomes. This is consistent with results obtained using the model system with synthetic polynucleotides.
Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome $$

Abstract Background Zollinger–Ellison (ZE) syndrome is characterized by gastric acid hypersecretion and ulcer disease from autologous gastrin secretion by a gastrinoma. Patient and methods A 43 year old man underwent upper endoscopy for a 6 week history of recurrent nausea, vomiting, heartburn, weight loss, and watery diarrhea. Results Endoscopic findings included severe reflux esophagitis with multiple linear esophageal ulcerations, thickened gastric folds with mosaic pattern mucosa, distinctive gastric corpus and antrum junction, numerous antral erosions with traces of coffee ground substance, bulbar erosions and ulcerations, and post-bulbar erosions and ulcerations. Based on these symptoms and endoscopic findings, a gastrinoma work-up was instituted and the diagnosis was confirmed. Conclusions Endoscopists need to be aware of the classical symptoms and clinical findings associated with ZE syndrome in order to appropriately diagnose and manage affected patients.
Transition novelty moderates daters' cortisol responses when talking about marriage

Nonmarital couples' salivary cortisol responses during a likelihood of marriage discussion were assessed. Sixty-eight couple members (34 couples) in the United States independently indicated the extent to which they had experience thinking about and talking about marriage to their current partners (i.e., marriage novelty). Couples subsequently jointly graphed their chance of marriage to each other over the course of their relationship histories. Increased levels of marriage novelty predicted heightened cortisol reactivity to the joint discussion relative to cortisol responses of couple members for whom the idea of marriage was less novel. These results highlight the impact simply discussing transitions can have on individuals' physiological responses, and add to the expanding literature concerning the link between nonmarital romances and biological outcomes.
Presidential attention, support, and symbolism in civil rights 1953–1984

Abstract Public statements of seven recent American presidents on civil rights vary in the extent to which they truly support increased rights for Blacks or are merely symbolic. These seven presidents also vary in the attention they pay to civil rights. The authors analyze the content of all presidential speeches, press conferences, letters, and other public messages in the Public Papers of the Presidents from 1953 through 1984. The presidents are Eisenhower, Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon, Ford, Carter, and Reagan.
On Value Sets of Polynomials over a Finite Field

We study value sets of polynomials over a finite field, and value sets associated to pairs of such polynomials. For example, we show that the value sets (counting multiplicities) of two polynomials of degree at mostdare identical or have at mostq?(q?1)/dvalues in common whereqis the number of elements in the finite field. This generalizes a theorem of D. Wan concerning the size of a single value set. We generalize our result to pairs of value sets obtained by restricting the domain to certain subsets of the field. These results are preceded by results concerning symmetric expressions (of low degree) of the value set of a polynomial. K. S. Williams, D. Wan, and others have considered such expressions in the context of symmetric polynomials, but we consider (multivariable) polynomials invariant under certain important subgroups of the full symmetry group.
Objective measures as a predictor of late payments by high-risk borrowers

Manufactured homes (also known outside the US as prefabricated homes) are a viable housing option for low-income buyers, but traditional mortgages are not available for purchase of manufactured homes because of a perception of higher risk of default among purchasers of manufactured homes. Research suggests that creditscoring models which incorporate objective data such as income, debt-to-income ratio and credit history result in an accurate and objective predictive tool to estimate likelihood of late payments and default among traditional home buyers. This study showed that these same models can be applied similarly to purchasers of manufactured homes. A Tobit model was developed to evaluate which factors most accurately predict default and late payment behaviour among borrowers who purchased a manufactured home. The model showed that when decomposed into the probability of making a late payment and number of late payments, credit score and income are both significant predictors in both sets of borrowers of both the probability of making a late payment and the number of late payments. The higher the credit score, the less likely the borrower is to make a late payment.
Graphical approach to the nonintersecting string model: Star-triangle equation, inversion relation, and exact solution

Abstract A general q-state nonintersecting string model for q≧2 is studied, and solved, using a graphical approach. This model, of which special cases were first introduced by Strogonov and Schultz, has recently drawn further attention because of its relation to Potts models. In its simplest version, a uniform, separable nonintersecting string model on a quadratic lattice, it corresponds to a q2-state Potts model with Potts-spins on every other lattice face. We first formulate the related star-triangle equation which we solve in terms of a line-variable parametrization. Such a parametrization of a solution of the star-triangle equation leads to a simple and direct graphical derivation of an inversion relation for the partition function. Our graphical analysis also shows that the inversion relation holds if certain boundary effects can be neglected, as we shall give a special finite lattice from which the inversion relation can be read off immediately. This relation is next solved under appropriate analyticity assumptions, again using a simple and direct approach, and the result is applied to obtain exact solutions for specific string models.
Intracranial pressure and brain redox balance in rabbits.

The effects of elevated intracranial pressure (ICP) on intracellular oxygenation and cerebrocortical blood volume (CBV) were studied in rabbits. Intracellular oxygen (O2) concentration was assessed as the level of pyridine nucleotide concentration ([NADH])) oxidation/reduction balance and relative cerebrocortical blood volume (CBV) were measured with a fibreoptic fluororeflectometer probe placed on the cerebrocortical surface. Experiments were conducted in six urethane anaesthetized, normocarbic animals at different fractions of inspired O2 (FlC2). During gradual increases in ICP, [NADH] began to increase (representing decreased intracellular mitochondrial PO2)for all values of FlO2 as ICP exceeded a threshold of 18± 2.2 cmH2O (P < 0.05). The decline in intracellular oxygenation with elevated ICP was inversely related to FlO2 (P < 0.05). With ICP greater than 18 ± 2.2 cmH2O, intracellular mitochondrial oxygenation showed an improvement between an FlO2 of 0.21 and 0.5 (P < 0.05) but increasing FlO2 from 0.5 to 1.0 resulted in no statistically significant improvement in tissue redox balance. The CBV, largely representing tissue capillary blood, increased when ICP reached greater 18 ± 1.2 cmH2O probably reflecting local autoregulation or venous distension (P < 0.05). However, above 30 ± 1.1 cmH2O, CBV decreased (P < 0.05). The results demonstrate the interdependence of inspired oxygen concentration, elevated ICP, and brain intracellular oxygenation, and suggest that brain oxygen utilization deteriorates above an ICP of about 18 cmH2O.
Motivation in concurrent variable-interval schedules with food and water reinforcers

The lever pressing of four food- and water-deprived rats was reinforced on concurrent variable-interval schedules. Food reinforced one response, and water reinforced the other. Response rates in baseline were higher in the food component than in the water component. After response patterns and body weights had stabilized, the animals were given access to either food only, water only, both food and water, or neither food nor water (baseline) before daily sessions. Giving food before a session decreased per cent time in the food component, decreased overall response rates for food, and increased overall response rates for water. Giving water before a session increased per cent time in the food component, increased overall response rates for food, and decreased overall response rates for water. Giving both food and water before a session resulted in a combination of prefeeding and prewatering effects. More food and more water were consumed when both were available than when only one was available before a session.
Pseudodislocation of the glenohumeral joint diagnosed by bone scintigraphy

A three-phase bone scan was performed to examine right upper extremity pain in a 70-year-old woman suspected of having reflex sympathetic dystrophy. The patient was chronically anticoagulated for atrial fibrillation. The first two phases demonstrated no pertinent findings. Delayed imaging revealed a widened glenohumeral joint on the right with downward displacement of the humeral head. Subsequent radiographs confirmed pseudodislocation and laboratory evaluation revealed an elevated prothrombin time. Aspiration of the right glenohumeral joint yielded 60-70 cc of bloody fluid and resulted in prompt relief
Grain boundary depletion and migration during selective oxidation of Cr in a Ni–5Cr binary alloy exposed to high-temperature hydrogenated water

High-resolution microscopy of a high-purity Ni–5Cr alloy exposed to 360 °C hydrogenated water reveals intergranular selective oxidation of Cr accompanied by local Cr depletion and diffusion-induced grain boundary migration (DIGM). The corrosion-product oxide consists of a porous, interconnected network of Cr2O3 platelets, with no further O ingress into the metal ahead. Extensive grain boundary depletion of Cr (to
The treatment of adult phosphate diabetes and Fanconi syndrome with neutral sodium phosphate

Abstract Two adults with untreated phosphate diabetes and severe osteomalacia as demonstrated by wide osteoid seams on bone biopsy, multiple pseudofractures and marked skeletal rarefaction were studied using metabolic balance technics, radiocalcium kinetics and urinary hydroxyproline excretion. Negative calcium balance with high fecal calcium, low normal rates of deposition of calcium in bone and normal rates of hydroxyproline excretion were found. The acute as well as long-term effects of phosphate supplements as the only therapy were investigated by these methods. Healing of the bone disease resulted, as judged by clinical, roentgenologic and histologic criteria, and was accompanied by a striking increase in bone turnover (increased calcium deposition rate in bone and, to a lesser extent, increased calcium removal rate from bone; increased urinary hydroxyproline excretion and increased levels of serum alkaline phosphatase). This increase in bone turnover was accompanied by increased absorption of calcium and phosphorus from the gastrointestinal tract. There was a good correlation between the radiocalcium kinetics and hydroxyproline excretion, less correlation between these two parameters and the levels of alkaline phosphatase. Acute and long-term withdrawal of phosphate supplements was associated with fall of the first two parameters toward pretreatment levels; long-term withdrawal was accompanied by a decrease in the levels of serum alkaline phosphatase as well. Phosphate therapy also produced changes in skeletal retention of an acute load of sodium fluoride, and in the urinary excretion of hydroxylysine which paralleled those obtained using the other parameters of bone turnover. A similar response to phosphate therapy was observed in a subject with the adult Fanconi syndrome, partially treated with vitamin D. In another subject with normal serum phosphate levels and idiopathic osteoporosis, therapy with phosphate for five months produced only minor changes in the aforementioned parameters although the direction was similar to that in the other subjects. In a patient with mild phosphate diabetes, short-term phosphate supplements elicited responses in the same direction, although of lesser magnitude, as in patients with more severe osteomalacia. It is concluded that phosphate treatment of patients with phosphate diabetes and osteomalacia results in stimulation of initially low-normal rates of bone formation by a mechanism as yet undefined. The stimulation of bone resorption which also accompanied phosphate therapy in these subjects may result in part from secondary hyperparathyroidism.
Real Time Dynamics in Polyacetylene

Abstract Dynamical solutios to a one-dimensional coupled electron-phonon model of polyacetylene are explored numerically. The results indicate that interesting objects in polyacetylene such as neutral spincarrying solitons, charged spinles solitons, polarons and breathers can be dynamically generated by single electron and electron pair tunneling, pgotoabsorption, and chain breaking
Structures of the ceramides from porcine palatal stratum corneum.

Ceramides are the major type of lipid found in stratum corneum from the skin, gingiva and hard palate. The present study examined the ceramides of the stratum corneum from the hard palate. Six fractions of ceramides were isolated by preparative thin-layer chromatography. The least polar fraction contained an unusual acyl ceramide (EOS) consisting of long ω-hydroxy acids amide-linked to sphingosine with mostly saturated fatty acids ester-linked to the ω-hydroxyl group. The second and third fractions contained normal fatty acids amide-linked to sphingosine (NS) and phytosphingosine (NP), respectively. In each of these ceramides, the fatty acids consisted of a mixture of saturated and monoenoic species. The three most polar fractions all contain amide-linked α-hydroxy acids. The fourth fraction contained long α-hydroxy acids amide-linked to sphingosine (ASl), while the fifth fraction contained short α-hydroxy acids amide-linked to sphingosine (ASs). The most polar ceramide contained α-hydroxy acids amide-linked to phytosphingosine (AP). EOS, NS and NP differed from their epidermal counterparts in terms of the compositions of the normal fatty acids. ASl, ASs and AP from palatal stratum corneum were essentially identical to their epidermal counterparts. The differences between palatal and epidermal EOS, NS and NP contribute to the differences in permeability of palate compared to skin.
A topological approach to finding grids in calibration patterns

This paper describes a technique for finding regular grids in the images of calibration patterns, a crucial step in calibrating cameras. Corner features located by a corner detector are connected using Delaunay triangulation. Pairs of neighboring triangles are combined into quadrilaterals, which are then topologically filtered and ordered. Both triangular and quadrilateral elements are represented by a single mesh data structure, which allows us to exploit the strong topological constraints in a regular grid. The complexity of the algorithm is linear to the number of corners. Experiments show that the method is able to handle images with severe radial distortions and partial pattern occlusions. Implemented on a conventional desktop, grid matching can be done in real time. The method is also applicable to marker detections for augmented reality and robot navigation.
The sedimentation properties of cholinesterase from a mayfly (Hexagenia bilineata (Say); Ephemeroptera) and the honey bee (Apis mellifera L.)

Abstract 1. 1. Solubilized mayfly and honey bee cholinesterase have the same sedimentation coefficient (7·3S) at pH. 8·0. 2. 2. At pH 6·8 the mayfly enzyme sediments in 7·3S, 10·2S, and larger forms; the honey bee enzyme is polydispene at pH. 6·8. 3. 3. The mayfly ChE shifts from heavier forms to 7·3S following dialysis, dilution, or an increase in pH from 6·8 to 8·0.
Institutional Learning Curve of Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemoperfusion for Peritoneal Malignancies

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemoperfusion (HIPEC) is routinely used to treat certain peritoneal carcinomatoses (PC), but it can be associated with relatively high complication rates, prolonged hospital length of stay, and potential mortality. Our objective was to determine the learning curve (LC) of CRS/HIPEC in our high-volume institution. A total of 370 patients with PC from mucinous appendiceal neoplasms (MAN = 282), malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPM = 60), and gastric cancer (GC = 24) were studied. Outcomes analyzed included incomplete cytoreduction (IC), severe morbidity (SM), 60-day mortality, progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS). Risk-adjusted sequential probability ratio test (RA-SPRT) was employed to assess the LC of CRS/HIPEC for IC and SM using prespecified odds ratio (OR) boundaries derived from previously published data. Risk adjusted-cumulative average probability (RA-CAP) was used to analyze 1-year PFS and 2-year OS. Complete cytoreduction, severe morbidity, and 60-day mortality were 84.2, 30, and 1.9 % respectively. Higher simplified peritoneal cancer index was the major independent risk factor for IC, whereas high-grade histology, IC, and diagnosis of MPM and GC (compared with MAN) were predictors of SM after CRS/HIPEC (p < 0.05). RA-SPRT showed that approximately 180 cases are needed to achieve the lowest risk of IC and SM. Ninety cases were needed to achieve a steady 1-year PFS and 2-year OS in RA-CAP plots. The completeness of cytoreduction, morbidity, and mortality rates for CRS/HIPEC at our institution are comparable to previously reported data. Approximately 180 and 90 procedures are required to improve operative and oncologic outcomes respectively.
Storage dispatch optimization for grid-connected combined photovoltaic-battery storage systems

A linear programming (LP) routine was implemented to optimize the energy storage dispatch schedule for demand charge management in a grid-connected, combined photovoltaic-battery storage system (PV+ system). The LP leverages PV power output and load forecasts to minimize peak loads subject to elementary dynamical and electrical constraints of the PV+ system. We simulated a broad range of PV+ designs (in terms of battery capacity and peak load reduction target) and performed a cost benefit analysis to quantify the net present value (NPV) of the battery storage system. We compared the financial benefits of our optimized energy storage dispatch schedule with a simple off-peak/on-peak, charging/discharging strategy. Significant financial value was attained over the lifetime of the battery by the application of PV power output and load forecasts in the computation of the energy storage dispatch schedule. The NPV of the battery array increased significantly (in the range $200k-$400k for some PV+ configurations) when the storage was operated on the optimized schedule compared to the off-peak/on-peak schedule. These gains were attributed to increased battery lifetime and reduced demand charges under the optimized dispatch schedule.
Evolutionary stable strategy: a test for theories of retroviral pathology which are based upon the concept of molecular mimicry.

The genetic makeup of animal and plant populations is determined by established principles and concepts. Ecology and evolution provide a basic theoretical framework for understanding how genetic changes occur in populations. Whether these rules can be applied to host retroviral populations is unknown. Individuals infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) contain within their bodies a viral population. This population is known as a viral quasispecies. Located in the transmembrane protein of HIV-1 is the viral sequence Gly-Thr-Asp-Arg-Val. Previous immunological studies have shown that viral antibody is produced in response to this five-amino-acid sequence. Antibody to this viral sequence also crossreacts and binds to a related peptide sequence found on certain immune cells. This related sequence, Gly-Thr-Glu-Arg-Val, is found on immune cells bearing a structure known as the major histocompatibility complex (MHC). The viral transmembrane sequence, Gly-Thr-Asp-Arg-Val, can be substituted with alanine residues utilizing site-directed mutagenesis. This creates a viral clone devoid of the genetic similarity with the MHC. Chimpanzees progressing to AIDS contain both sequences of interest. Suppression of the chimpanzee quasispecies utilizing anti-retroviral drugs is proposed. This action serves to suppress the presence of the viruses containing the sequence Gly-Thr-Asp-Arg-Val. When viral load has been reduced significantly, a drug resistant, alanine altered clone is to be introduced in large numbers. The concept of evolutionary stable strategy predicts that a viable HIV clone with alanine residues can genetically dominate the viral population. Immune system recognition of the alanine sequence is likely to result in renewed antibody production. Antibodies to the alanine containing viral sequence should not recognize or bind to the MHC. Immunological parameters can then be measured to determine the physiological impact of eliminating a sequence responsible for molecular mimicry between virus and host.
Photon statistics of a dye laser far below threshold

The relative mean square fluctuations $\frac{〈{(\ensuremath{\Delta}I)}^{2}〉}{{〈I〉}^{2}}$ of the intensity $I$ of a single-mode dye laser have been measured by a photon counting technique, in the region from about threshold to intensities 1000 times below threshold. The results show a steady increase of $\frac{〈{(\ensuremath{\Delta}I)}^{2}〉}{{〈I〉}^{2}}$ from less than 1 to about 150 as $〈I〉$ is reduced, followed by a rapid drop to zero. This behavior appears to be described fairly well by an equation of motion containing both additive spontaneous emission fluctuations and multiplicative pumping fluctuations.
Viral IL-6-Induced Cell Proliferation and Immune Evasion of Interferon Activity

Lymphoma cells infected with Kaposi9s sarcoma–associated herpesvirus are autocrine dependent on virus-derived interleukin-6 (IL-6), but not on cellular IL-6. During viral infection, host cells induce the antiviral factor interferon (IFN) to up-regulate p21, initiate cell cycle arrest, and inhibit virus replication. Viral IL-6, however, blocks IFN signaling. A viral transcriptional program exists in which only the viral IL-6 gene is directly activated by IFN-α, allowing the virus to modify its cellular environment by sensing and responding to levels of intracellular IFN signaling. The human cytokine cannot mimic this effect because IFN-α down-regulates the IL-6 receptor, gp80. Viral IL-6 bypasses the gp80 regulatory checkpoint by binding directly to the gp130 transducer molecule, resulting in tumor cell autocrine dependence on the viral cytokine for proliferation and survival.
Performance management in police agencies: a conceptual framework

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to define a systematic management structure that helps police practitioners institutionalize performance management and analysis in more rational‐technical ways.Design/methodology/approach – The design is based on Gold's “complete participant” field researcher method.Findings – The findings suggest a performance management model is more rational than the traditional command‐control model and may increase consistency in police management by systematically collecting and reporting on streams of data to measure performance instead of relying on rote compliance.Research limitations/implications – The model is limited because it does not account for important intangible qualities of performance (e.g. attitude, initiative, judgment); in the hands of autocratic managers it can be oppressive and cause more problems than it solves; it may constrain officer discretion; it has not been advanced as a learning instrument; and performance indicators are subject to measurement erro...
Spectroscopic properties and chromophore conformations of the photomorphogenic receptor: phytochrome.

Abstract Fluorescence lifetimes of ‘large’ (mol. wt. 120 000) and ‘small’ (mol. wt. 60 000) phytochromes isolated from oat and rye seedlings grown in the dark have been measured at 199 K and 298 K. Phytochrome model compounds have also been studied by phase modulation fluorometrically at 77 K for comparison with lifetime data for phytochrome. It was found that the fluorescence lifetime of ‘large’ phytochrome was significantly shorter than that of ‘small’ phytochrome and its chromophore models. The phytochrome chromophore of Pr form has been analyzed by fluorescence polarization, CD, and molecular orbital methods. The fluorescence excitation polarization of ‘small’ phytochrome and the chromophore model in buffer/glycerol mixture (3 : 1, v/v) at 77 K is very high (0.4) at the main absorption band and is negative (−0.1) and close to 0 in the near ultraviolet band, respectively. Analyses of the spectroscopic data suggest that the chromophore conformation of Pr and Pfr forms of phytochrome are essentially identical. The induced ellipticity of ‘large’ rye phytochrome in the blue and near ultraviolet regions was found to be significantly higher than that of ‘small’ phytochrome, indicating that the binding interaction between the phytochrome chromophore and apoprotein is much tighter in the former than in the latter. In addition, the excitation energy transfer does occur from Trp residue(s) to the chromophore in ‘large’ phytochrome but not in ‘small’ Pr. This illustrates one feature of the role played by the large molecular weight apoprotein in the binding site interactions and primary photoprocesses of Pr. Finally, a plausible model for the primary photoprocesses and the mechanism of phytochrome interactions triggered by the Pr → Pfr phototransformation have been proposed on the basis of the above results.
Interpretation of the vital statistics of breast cancer

Cross-sectional and longitudinal age-specific incidence and mortality rates for breast cancer in the United States and selected areas are examined. According to the statistics breast cancer incidence and mortality rise sharply during the reproductive years then continue to rise postmenopausally but at a slower rate. Breast cancer incidence prior to age 55 increased about 45% from 1935 to 1965 while above age 55 the incidence remained constant. There are marked racial and regional differences in breast cancer incidence. Japanese-American women have a very low death rate from breast cancer which is about 50% greater than that for Japanese women living in Japan but only one-fourth that of Caucasian women in the United States. Among all non-Caucasian women the mortality rate approximates that of Caucasian women but tends to be somewhat higher during the reproductive years and somewhat lower during later life. In comparing the age specific incidence rates for breast cancer among women in 7 different countries 3 patterns are discerned. The United States (i.e. Connecticut) Canada England and Wales and Denmark show high steadily increasing breast cancer rates throughout the age span. Finland and Yugoslavia show approximately the same incidence rates as the other countries up to about age 45 and then lower relatively constant age-specific rates thereafter. Japanese women also have comparable rates to age 45 and then the incidence of breast cancer falls at older ages. The hypothesis is suggested that the risk from breast cancer is related to the frequency and quality of ovarian function which are in turn related to environmental factors. The marked differences in breast cancer frequency between Japanese women and women of other nationalities suggest that genetic factors may also play a role.
The Continuous Feeding of an Antibiotic to Laying Hens

Abstract ANTIBIOTICS fed to hens at low levels, under 10 grams per ton, showed no effect on egg production or on any other factors studied in experiments conducted by several investigators (Berg et al., 1952; Petersen and Lampman, 1952; Brown et al., 1953; Carpenter et al., 1954; Sherwood and Milby, 1954). However, when higher levels of antibiotics, 30 to 300 grams per ton, were fed to laying hens, egg production was usually increased (Elam et al., 1953; Balloun, 1954; Bearse and Berg, 1955; Carlson et al., 1955; Jacobs et al., 1955; Branion et al., 1956; Heywang, 1956; Price et al, 1956). All hens in the 1954–55 Storrs Egg Laying Test received 100 grams of chlortetracycline per ton of diet during the entire year. The average egg production for the hens in the fifty-week test was 18.0 eggs greater than the previous year and 9.3 eggs greater than the average of…
Intelligent routing protocol for ad hoc wireless network

A novel routing scheme for mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs), which combines hybrid and multi-inter-routing path properties with a distributed topology discovery route mechanism using control agents is proposed in this paper. In recent years, a variety of hybrid routing protocols for Mobile Ad hoc wireless networks (MANETs) have been developed. Which is proactively maintains routing information for a local neighborhood, while reactively acquiring routes to destinations beyond the global. The hybrid protocol reduces routing discovery latency and the end-to-end delay by providing high connectivity without requiring much of the scarce network capacity. On the other side the hybrid routing protocols in MANETs likes Zone Routing Protocol still need route "re-discover" time when a route between zones link break. Sine the topology update information needs to be broadcast routing request on local zone. Due to this delay, the routing protocol may not be applicable for real-time data and multimedia communication. We utilize the advantages of a clustering organization and multi-routing path in routing protocol to achieve several goals at the same time. Firstly, IRP efficiently saves network bandwidth and reduces route reconstruction time when a routing path fails. The IRP protocol does not require global periodic routing advertisements, local control agents will automatically monitor and repair broke links. Secondly, it efficiently reduces congestion and traffic "bottlenecks" for ClusterHeads in clustering network. Thirdly, it reduces significant overheads associated with maintaining clusters. Fourthly, it improves clusters stability due to dynamic topology changing frequently. In this paper, we present the Intelligent Routing Protocol. First, we discuss the problem of routing in ad hoc networks and the motivation of IRP. We describe the hierarchical architecture of IRP. We describe the routing process and illustrate it with an example. Further, we describe the control manage mechanisms, which are used to control active route and reduce the traffic amount in the route discovery procedure. Finial, the numerical experiments are given to show the effectiveness of IRP routing protocol.
Absorption of solar energy in a room

The purpose of this study is to develop an analysis that allows an examination of the spatial distribution of the absorbed solar energy for a room. The room is composed of several areas that consist of an exterior window where solar beam and diffuse energies originate, an interior window, a door, and six opaque areas. Each area is subdivided into a number of discrete surfaces and an analysis based on the radiosity-irradiation method is used to determine the absorbed solar energy for each surface. A geometrically-based method is used to describe the location and magnitude of the directly incident solar beam energy for each surface. The influence of the number of discrete surfaces on the findings is examined. The results show that a grid pattern that produces discrete surfaces having dimensions of less than 0.3 m yields accurate results. Results are reported for different orientations of the room. As expected, the absorbed solar energy is high in regions where the solar beam energy irradiates a surface. The spatial distribution of the absorbed solar energy does vary significantly over the areas of the room. Measured solar energy values are used to compute the absorbed solar energy as a function of time of day. The movement of the energy across the surfaces of the room creates a time-varying value for the absorbed solar energy. Numerical values for the ratio of the absorbed solar energy for each area to the available solar energy from the exterior window are supplied.
Visual Representations for Monitoring Project Performance: Developing Novel Prototypes for Improved Communication

AbstractMaintaining project control demands construction project managers navigate the discrepancies between target and actual performance—a specific challenge for large-scale construction projects that generate large amounts of ever-changing data. Project managers often use visual representations of data to make better-informed decisions; however, current approaches often fail to manifest the multifaceted considerations that render a successful project. Better visual representation tools would streamline communication and improve project efficiency. Applying a variety of research methods ranging from literature reviews to simulation and usability tests, this investigation’s six-step process developed four alternative visual representations prototypes for improved performance monitoring: Activity Icons, Map of Activities, Activity Wall, and Activity Gazer. This paper contributes to the body of knowledge by iteratively designing these four prototype visual representations in consultation with experienced p...
Energetics and mechanism for H2S adsorption by ceria-lanthanide mixed oxides: Implications for the desulfurization of biomass gasifier effluents

Density functional theory (DFT) and ab initio thermodynamics are used to calculate the free energies of H2S adsorption and dissociation on CeO2(111) and CeO2(111) doped with La or Tb. Experimental sulfur capacities are reported for La- and Tb-doped CeO2 adsorbents for comparison with computed energetics. The DFT-based free energies of H2S adsorption, dissociation, and oxygen vacancy formation are evaluated at the operating conditions for the high temperature desulfurization of biomass gasifier effluents. DFT results indicate that the sulfur adsorption process occurs via H2S adsorption and dissociation over substoichiometric oxygen vacancies, and is rate limited by a strongly endergonic molecular adsorption of H2S. Sulfur incorporation is only favorable if multiple adjacent oxygen vacancies are present to provide the flexibility required to accommodate the larger coordination shell of sulfur atoms. The thermodynamics of the overall H2S adsorption process do not correlate with oxygen vacancy formation energ...
Complementary roles of mutations at positions 69 and 242 in a class A β-lactamase

Abstract Analysis of the three-dimensional structure of class A β-lactamases suggests that deformation of the substrate binding site can be produced by changes in the hydrophobicity of residue 69 behind the β-sheet and by outward movement of the B3 β-strand by introduction of a non-glycine residue at position 242 on the B4 β-strand. By site-directed mutagenesis Met 69 -IleGly 242 -Cys, a double mutant, of the OHIO-1 β-lactamase, was constructed. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of the double mutant compared with the wild type and each single mutant revealed an increased susceptibility to β-lactams. Met 69 -IleGly 242 Cys hydrolyzed cephaloridine ( K m = 213 μM) but had K m > 500 μM for other β-lactams tested including cefotaxime, and demonstrated a higher apparent K i for inhibitors (clavulanate K i = 500 μ M, sulbactam = 434 μ M, and tazobactam = 70 μ M). In a competition experiment with cephaloridine, the apparent K i values for penicillin and cefotaxime remained low, 21 μM and 0.7 μM, respectively. Since Ile is twice as hydrophobic as Met, the Met 69 -Ile mutation may result in partial collapse of the oxyanion hole. This would also increase the distance between Arg- 244 and the carboxyl of clavulanic acid. The Gly 242 -Cys mutation opens the lower portion of the active site to bulky R groups of cephalosporins. Although these two mutations result in a catalytically impaired enzyme, they can be used to model the complementary role of two distinct residues, neither of which interacts directly with β-lactam substrates or inhibitors.
An asymptotic solution for currents in the penumbra region with discontinuity in curvature

An analytical asymptotic result is obtained for evaluating the current distribution on a perfectly conducting surface composed of a flat plate smoothly joined to a parabolic cylinder with the join in the penumbra region. The result presents some improvements over a previous solution of the current distribution obtained by other investigators. The analytical result can be conveniently applied to estimating the backscattering cross section of a cone-sphere.
Genetic control of the inflammatory T-cell response in regulatory T-cell deficient scurfy mice☆

IPEX (Immunodysregulation, polyendocrinopathy, enteropathy, X-linked) syndrome is a rare, recessive disorder in patients with mutations in the foxp3 gene, the normal expression of which is required for the generation of functional regulatory T-cells. Scurfy mice also bear a mutation in the foxp3, and like IPEX patients, spontaneously develop multi-organ inflammation. As reviewed herein, breeding immune response genes into Scurfy mice has provided useful insight into how the inflammatory T-cell response is regulated in the absence of regulatory T-cells and post regulatory T-cell checkpoint. Of particular interest are those that preferentially affect the inflammatory T-cell response in an "apparent" organ-specific manner, implying that specific mechanisms of control exist for individual organs during multi-organ inflammation.