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The response of dielectric media to electromagnetic fields can be described by using either the response to a Maxwell field E or to an externally produced field E. The former response is measured by phenomenological (dielectric) coefficients and the latter by susceptibilities. With the purpose of clarifying some recent proposals, the connections between the linear (two-point) and first non-vanishing nonlinear (four-point) dielectric coefficients and the susceptibilities for media confined to a slab are examined using a general procedure developed sometime ago. Unlike the relations found for correlations between a local polarization density and the integrated polarization densities (total polarizations), the point-point connections give rise to non-vanishing cross correlations between polarization densities which are parallel and perpendicular to the slab surfaces. The cross correlations in the two-point connections vanish when one polarization density is integrated to form the correlations between a local polarization density and the total polarization thereby losing angular information. The integrated parallel and perpendicular correlations remain different. When the fourpoint connections are similarly integrated most, but not all, cross correlations vanish. The angular correlations induced by the slab surfaces render the use of point-point correlations that are valid for isotropic media invalid for use in the integrated slab densities. In addition, the nonlinear fluctuations in the perpendicular components are drastically reduced relative to those in the parallel components or in isotropic media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) represents a major cattle disease with multiple forms including fetal infections resulting in persistently infected (PI) cattle. The objectives of this study were to investigate the immune response to six vaccines, five modified live viral (MLV) and one killed vaccine containing BVDV immunogens as measured by antibodies to BVDV1a, BVDV1b, BVDV2a, and BVDV2c. The predominant BVDV subgenotype in the U.S. is BVDV1b compared to BVDV1a and BVDV2a. There are MLV and killed BVDV vaccines containing BVDV1a and BVDV2a marketed in the U.S. A prior study evaluated immune response to vaccination with BVDV1a and BVDV2a inducing virus neutralizing antibody titers. BVDV1b titers 128 or higher at time of exposure to BVDV1b PI cattle protected heifers against fetal infection. Calves received two doses and postweaning serums were collected and assayed for BVDV antibodies. Antibody titers were expressed as geometric mean averages. Percentages were expressed as proportions of animals within three antibody levels, including targeted level 128 or greater. There were statistical differences among vaccines in each study, particularly to BVDV1a, BVDV1b, and BVDV2a. MLV vaccines containing Singer strain induced higher levels to BVDV1a and BVDV1b than NADL vaccine in all three studies. Two vaccines, both MLV, Vaccine 1 and Vaccine 6 containing Singer strain induced higher proportion of 128 or higher BVDV1b titers than vaccine with NADL. Antibody levels to BVDV2a and BVDV2c were dependent on BVDV2a vaccine strain. This study indicates strain in BVDV vaccines reflects differences in immune response to different BVDV subgenotypes, particularly BVDV1b and BVDV2c. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Cooper and Los Angeles (LA) strains were the two original respiratory strains of bovine herpesvirus type 1.1 (BoHV-1.1) isolated in the 1950s from cattle with infectious bovine rhinotracheitis. We report the complete genome sequence for the BoHV-1.1 LA strain and compare it to the prototype Cooper strain and six wild-type BoHV-1.1 isolates. A nucleotide sequence divergence of 0.74% was noted across the two complete genomes, caused by 19 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) involving 12 genes and insertions/deletions that primarily affected the number of repeats within reiterated repeat regions of the genome. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that Cooper and LA strains are genetically the most ancient strains from which all of the more-recently isolated field strains of BoHV-1.1 evolved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Kirkwood g-factor that determines the long wavelength dielectric constant of a simple, isotropic, translationally invariant dipolar fluid is given by an integral of a dipole-dipole correlation function over a spherical region of a nonzero radius RK chosen such that any further increase in the radius leads to no change in the value of the integral, thereby defining a Kirkwood correlation length RK. For radii less than the correlation length the integral defines a radius dependent (nonlocal) Kirkwood g-factor, implying a nonlocal dielectric function. The nonlocal nature of these quantities has important consequences for the determination of the long wavelength dielectric function from dipole fluctuations via the Kirkwood-Fröhlich connection. The dipole-dipole correlation function (the volume dipole auto-correlation function) commonly used in this determination involves particles residing solely within a sphere of radius R, unlike the correct correlation function which involves either a single particle with those particles in a spherical volume of radius RK or those particles in a spherical volume of radius R with those residing within a spherical volume of radius R+RK. A procedure is suggested for extracting the infinite system dipole-dipole correlation function from results of simulations performed on finite spherical samples. Using some results reported in the recent literature, relative to the accurate correlation function the commonly used correlation function ranges from 27% too small for a sphere having a radius comparable to the Kirkwood correlation length to 4% too small at a radius of seven times that correlation length. As a result, the apparent dielectric constants, as determined by the conventional procedure of using the fluctuations of the sum of dipoles in a finite fixed volume, are also too small. This suggests that a dielectric constant extracted from computer simulations using a total dipole-total dipole correlation function in a given volume with other geometries and/or boundary conditions will result in similar errors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A number of connections between the first nonlinear dielectric increment and dipole correlation functions have been proposed over a large span of years. These range from the Langevin–Debye approach, the use of cavity and reaction fields, a cavity free formulation, to modified Langevin–Debye approaches. Comparisons of the predictions of a number of these approaches, together with results of molecular dynamics simulations and an experimental result, are given. The relations include those by Booth and by Kielich based on the use of cavity and reaction fields as traditionally used in the determination of such connections but also including a partial correction by Booth for some ignored nonlinear effects, those by Sandberg and Edholm and by Jha and Freed based on the use of a Langevin–Debye type of approach, and one based on a cavity free non-Langevin–Debye formulation that automatically includes all nonlinear effects to the appropriate order. The local structures of water used for the determination of the pertinent correlation functions are chosen to be given by the Bernal–Fowler model, by a modification of the Berna–Fowler model, and by the Onsager approximation. In the limit of ε>ε∞, the cavity free connection gives results for the first nonlinear decrements 36% larger than the decrement obtained by Booth, irrespective of the model used for the dipole correlation functions. The inclusion of ε∞ is found to decrease the decrements by about 4%. Using parameters deduced from the requirement that the Kirkwood–Fröhlich connection give the experimental value of ε, the Booth uncorrected expression for the dielectric decrement using the modified Bernal–Fowler model is found to give good agreement with the simulations of Yeh and Berkowitz, while the cavity free result is too large. Using the Bernal–Fowler model for the local structure of water, the cavity free expression gives good agreement with the simulation results, the partially corrected Booth expression gives reasonable agreement, while the Booth uncorrected expression is too small. Comparisons to the experimental value of the nonlinear coefficient of (1.00±0.15)×10-15 m2/V2 as found by Kołodziej et al. are also made. Using the Bernal–Fowler model, the calculated nonlinear coefficients divided by 10-15 m2/V2 are as follows: Booth, 0.82; Booth including partial corrections for nonlinear effects on the cavity and reaction fields, 0.99; Kielich, 0.83; cavity free, 1.12; and modified Langevin–Debye, 2.93. The partially corrected Booth value shows the best fit, with the cavity free value next best but still within the cited error range. If the slope of the line given by Kołodziej et al. is used as the measure of the nonlinear increment, the experimental value is 1.10×10-15 m2/V2, similar to the corrected Booth and remarkably similar to the cavity free result. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Complete genomes of six 1978/79 fetal and respiratory BoHV-1 isolates were sequenced. • Vaccine-derived strains, WTs, and one vaccine/WT recombinant virus were recovered. • Fetal recombinant had a WT genome with two blocks of vaccine-derived sequences. • Evidence that recombination can occur naturally between BoHV-1 vaccine and WT viruses. • Underscores importance of gene-deleted marker vaccines recombining and losing markers. Bovine herpesvirus type 1 (BoHV-1) causes various disease syndromes in cattle including respiratory disease and abortions. During an investigation into the potential role of BoHV-1 modified-live vaccines (MLV) causing diseases in cattle, we performed whole genome sequencing on six BoHV-1 field strains isolated at Cornell Animal Health Diagnostic Center in the late 1970s. Three isolates (two respiratory and a fetal) were identified as vaccine-derived isolates, having SNP patterns identical to that of a previously sequenced MLV virus that exhibited a deleted US2 and truncated US1.67 genes. Two other isolates (a respiratory and a fetal) were categorized as wild-type (WT) viruses based on their unique SNP pattern that is distinct from MLV viruses. The sixth isolate from an aborted fetus was a recombinant virus with 62% of its genome exhibiting SNPs identical to one of the above-mentioned WT viruses also recovered from an aborted fetus. The remaining 38% consisted of two blocks of sequences derived from the MLV virus. The first block replaced the UL9-UL19 region, and the second vaccine-derived sequence block encompassed all the genes within the unique short region and the internal/terminal repeats containing the regulatory genes BICP4 and BICP22. This is confirmatory evidence that recombination between BoHV-1 MLV and WT viruses can occur under natural conditions and cause disease. It is important in that it underscores the potential for the glycoprotein E negative (gE−) marker vaccine used to eradicate BoHV-1 in some countries, to recombine with virulent field strains allowing them to capture the gE− marker, thereby endangering the control and eradication programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

General formulas are found for all the multitime correlation functions and susceptibilities of a simple two-dimensional rotor, the motion of which is governed by a Langevin equation containing Gaussian white noise as the torque. A sufficient condition that the equal time Poisson bracket of the angle with its conjugate momentum be satisfied at all times is inferred from the fluctuation–dissipation theorem applied to the fluctuating torque. The formulas include inertial effects, a necessity if high frequency behavior is to be correctly reproduced. The Fourier transforms of the two- and four-time dipole susceptibilities are extracted from the general results in the large friction constant limit. For the particular case of the rotor subjected to a strong constant background field and a weak time dependent probe field, we find that at low frequencies, the rotor exhibits saturation as measured by the real component of the four-time susceptibility. The imaginary part of the parallel component of the four-time susceptibility is found to be negative over the entire range of frequencies, this merely indicating that the overall dissipation in the system is decreased in the presence of a strong field. The Appendix determines the most general form of the correlation functions of the torque when it is specified that the two-time Poisson bracket of the torque is independent of the torque and of the system variables and that the fluctuation–dissipation theorem holds. They are a bit more general than Gaussian. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A general theory of the relaxation of a system in contact with a second system (called the heat bath) which need not be in equilibrium is presented. The theory, which avoids the use of projection operators, is developed in such a fashion that the effects of the interaction between the system and the heat bath can be consistently approximated by an ordering in terms of the degree of the fluctuation in the heat bath variables. This gives a natural classification in terms of differing regimes, the lowest nontrivial of which is the quadratic, or Gaussian, regime. The cubic and higher order fluctuations represent increasingly complex regimes. The exact equations of motion for the average of the single time system variables and for the two-time correlation functions involving the system variables are found in the Gaussian regime. (The general theory is not limited to the two-time correlation functions.) In the classical limit these lead to equations of motion for the three quantities: the average of the single time variables; the two-time, or pair, fluctuations; and the average of the Poisson bracket of a pair of system variables (thedissipative function) for systems in and not in equilibrium. Some exact consequences of the equations when the heat bath and the system are in thermal equilibrium are found. In particular the exact equilibrium distribution function of the system variables is determined and it is demonstrated that the system variables obey the fluctuation–dissipation theorem. Various approximation schemes are devised. When the bath and the system are in thermal equilibrium the approximate equations of motion obey the fluctuation–dissipation theorem and have as a possible steady state solution the exact equilibrium distribution. The theory is applied to the relaxation of a rigid rotor constrained to rotate in two dimensions. The first corrections to the diffusion constant D due to the nonzero correlation times of the bath variables and a... [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To establish a baseline lung ultrasound (LUS) artifact profile using a regionally based protocol in cats without clinical signs of respiratory disease and with radiographically normal lungs compared to a cohort of cats with left-sided congestive heart failure (CHF). Design Prospective case series. Animals Forty-nine cats without clinical signs of respiratory disease and with radiographically normal lungs and 7 cats with radiographic evidence of left-sided CHF. Interventions Application of a previously published LUS protocol. Frequency of B-lines was compared based on signalment, body condition score, investigator, and reasons for radiography and between 49 cats with radiographically normal lungs to 7 cats with radiographic evidence of left-sided CHF. Results Overall frequency of B-lines was 12% (95% confidence interval, 5-24%) in cats without respiratory disease versus 100% (95% confidence interval, 65-100%) in those with left-sided CHF. Six cats (6/49) had B-lines with 5/6 having B-lines at a single site; and 4/5 having a single B-line at 1 site, 1/5 having 2 B-lines at 1 site; and the sixth cat having 2 positive sites with a single B-line at each. In the cohort of cats with left-sided CHF, all cats (7/7) had >3 B-lines detected at every site. Conclusions The lack of B-lines in cats without respiratory disease (with radiographically normal lungs) and the predominance of B-lines in cats with left-sided CHF suggest that a regionally based LUS protocol may be clinically useful for the identification and evaluation of feline respiratory conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores France's Dépôt de la Guerre as an intentional site of preser- vation of military information specifically through the examination of archival inventories constructed during the first thirty years after the Dépôt's creation. The Dépôt was examined as a "knowledge management center" in a growing information state, using differing con- cepts of archival construction. An evaluation of three early inventories reveals administrative processes of selective organization and categorization, illustrating the risks of incomplete collection and preservation. This examination adds to the historical analysis of practices of government information management and the growth of an information state through an assessment of collection, loss, or deliberate destruction of information and even knowledge itself. However, the example of the Dépôt suggests that the underlying purpose and defined goals of any archive dramatically affect what it actually stores and how it conceives of useful knowledge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bovine viral diarrhea viruses (BVDV) are diverse genetically and antigenically. This diversity impacts both diagnostic testing and vaccination. In North America, there are two BVDV species, 1 and 2 with 3 subgentoypes, BVDV1a, BVDV1b and BVDV2a. Initially, US vaccines contained BVDV1a cytopathic strains. With the reporting of BVDV2 severe disease in Canada and the USA there was focus on protection by BVDV1a vaccines on BVDV2 disease. There was also emphasis of controlling persistently infected (PI) cattle resulted in studies for fetal protection afforded by BVDV1a vaccines. Initially, studies indicated that some BVDV1a vaccines gave less than 100% protection against BVDV2 challenge for fetal infection. Eventually vaccines in North America added BVDV2a to modified live virus (MLV) and killed BVDV1a vaccines. Ideally, vaccines should stimulate complete immunity providing 100% protection against disease, viremias, shedding, and 100% fetal protection in vaccinates when challenged with a range of diverse antigenic viruses (subgenotypes). There should be a long duration of immunity stimulated by vaccines, especially for fetal protection. MLV vaccines should be safe when given according to the label and free of other pathogens. While vaccines have now included BVDV1a and BVDV2a, with the discovery of the predominate subgenotype of BVDV in the USA to be BVDV1b, approximately 75% or greater in prevalence, protection in acute challenge and fetal protection studies became more apparent for BVDV1b. Thus many published studies examined protection by BVDV1a and BVDV2a vaccines against BVDV1b in acute challenge and fetal protection studies. There are no current BVDV1b vaccines in the USA. There are now more regulations on BVDV reproductive effects by the USDA Center for Veterinary Biologics (CVB) regarding label claims for protection against abortion, PI calves, and fetal infections, including expectations for studies regarding those claims. Also, the USDA CVB has a memorandum providing the guidance for exemption of the warning label statement against the use of the MLV BVDV in pregnant cows and calves nursing pregnant cows. In reviews of published studies in the USA, the results of acute challenge and fetal protection studies are described, including subgenotypes in vaccines and challenge strains and the results in vaccinates and the vaccinates' fetuses/newborns. In general, vaccines provide protection against heterologous strains, ranging from 100% to partial but statistically significant protection. In recent studies, the duration of immunity afforded by vaccines was investigated and reported. Issues of contamination remain, especially since fetal bovine serums may be contaminated with noncytopathic BVDV. In addition, the potential for immunosuppression by MLV vaccines exists, and new vaccines will be assessed in the future to prove those MLV components are not immunosuppressive by experimental studies. As new subgenotypes are found, the efficacy of the current vaccines should be evaluated for these new strains. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The three pieces in this section introduce the Festschrift celebrating the works and influence of Omega: Journal of Death and Dying's founding editor, Robert Kastenbaum. Robert Fulton, an early Associate Editor of the Journal begins with some personal reflections on Kastenbaum. Klass and Doka then describe the nature of the Festschrift. A closing coda by Robert Kastenbaum's wife, Beatrice Kastenbaum, reminds us of the person behind the work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The three pieces in this section introduce the Festschrift celebrating the works and influence of Omega: Journal of Death and Dying's founding editor, Robert Kastenbaum. Robert Fulton, an early Associate Editor of the Journal begins with some personal reflections on Kastenbaum. Klass and Doka then describe the nature of the Festschrift. A closing coda by Robert Kastenbaum's wife, Beatrice Kastenbaum, reminds us of the person behind the work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The only complete genome sequence available for bovine herpesvirus 1 (BoHV-1) is a composite sequence derived from four different BoHV-1.1 strains and one BoHV-1.2 strain. Such a chimeric genome sequence is problematic for molecular genetic studies on this virus. We report here the complete genome sequence for the BoHV-1.1 NVSL reference strain Cooper. Although similar to the published chimeric genome sequence, there are a number of nucleotide substitutions and deletions/insertions across the genome, many of which affect coding sequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Bovine viral diarrhea viruses (BVDV) have significant impact on beef and dairy production worldwide. The infections are widespread in the cattle populations, and in many production systems, vaccinations are utilized. BVDV strains have the hallmark of adversely affecting the immune system''s many components, both the innate and acquired systems. While BVDV do cause primary infections and disease, their role in the pathogenesis of other agents underscores the complexity of viral–bacterial synergy. A greater understanding of the role of the persistently infected (PI) animal resulting from susceptible females infected at a critical stage of pregnancy has permitted acknowledgment of a major source of infection to susceptible animals. Not only do we understand the role of the PI in transmitting infections and complicating other infections, but we now focus attempts to better diagnose and remove the PI animal. Vaccinations now address the need to have an immune population, especially the breeding females in the herd. Biosecurity, detection and removal of the PI, and effective vaccinations are tools for potential successful BVDV control. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We analysed primary breast cancers by genomic DNA copy number arrays, DNA methylation, exome sequencing, messenger RNA arrays, microRNA sequencing and reverse-phase protein arrays. Our ability to integrate information across platforms provided key insights into previously defined gene expression subtypes and demonstrated the existence of four main breast cancer classes when combining data from five platforms, each of which shows significant molecular heterogeneity. Somatic mutations in only three genes (TP53, PIK3CA and GATA3) occurred at >10% incidence across all breast cancers; however, there were numerous subtype-associated and novel gene mutations including the enrichment of specific mutations in GATA3, PIK3CA and MAP3K1 with the luminal A subtype. We identified two novel protein-expression-defined subgroups, possibly produced by stromal/microenvironmental elements, and integrated analyses identified specific signalling pathways dominant in each molecular subtype including a HER2/phosphorylated HER2/EGFR/phosphorylated EGFR signature within the HER2-enriched expression subtype. Comparison of basal-like breast tumours with high-grade serous ovarian tumours showed many molecular commonalities, indicating a related aetiology and similar therapeutic opportunities. The biological finding of the four main breast cancer subtypes caused by different subsets of genetic and epigenetic abnormalities raises the hypothesis that much of the clinically observable plasticity and heterogeneity occurs within, and not across, these major biological subtypes of breast cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nonlocal behavior of an electron in the ring-opening of cydobutene is analyzed using the sharing amplitude and tools based thereupon. The sharing amplitude is a generalization of the absolute value squared of the wave function (a probability density according to the Born interpretation) to a measure that gives, for a single particle in a many particle system, both the relative phase of a wavelike quantity between any two space/spin points and a measure of the distribution of that quantity between those points. The sharing indices are related to the absolute value squared of the amplitude, thereby ensuring that the amplitude and the indices are consistent. To provide prototypicalbehavior of the sharing quantities in single and double bonds and to identity nonbonding and antibonding behavior, these tools are used to describe single electron behavior in ethane and ethylene, in the latter including separate δ and π contributions and two excited states. Similar analyses of the single and double carbon-carbon bonds in the reactant cydobutene and in the product s-cis-butadiene (a planar transition state allowing for δ and π separation) are carried out. Comparisons are made to the prototypical molecules. The sharing quantities in the locally stable forms of s-gauche-butadiene are then considered. A remnant of the bond that is broken in cydobutene is found in a form that is consistent with a coarotatory ring-opening a behavior suggested by Woodward and Hoffmann on the basis of the symmetry of the highest occupied molecular orbital in the product, but here without appeal to only that molecular orbital Finally, the nonlocal behavior of an electron during the breaking and making of bonds in the reaction is discussed for several geometries along the reaction path. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective--To determine efficacy of a modified-live virus (MLV) vaccine containing bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) la and 2a against fetal infection in heifers exposed to cattle persistently infected (PI) with BVDV subtype lb. Animals--50 heifers and their fetuses. Procedures--Susceptible heifers received a placebo vaccine administered IM or a vaccine containing MLV strains of BVDV1a and BVDV2a administered IM or SC. On day 124 (64 to 89 days of gestation), 50 pregnant heifers (20 vaccinated SC, 20 vaccinated IM, and 10 control heifers) were challenge exposed to 8 PI cattle. On days 207 to 209, fetuses were recovered from heifers and used for testing. Results--2 control heifers aborted following challenge exposure; both fetuses were unavailable for testing. Eleven fetuses (8 control heifers and 1 IM and 2 SC vaccinates) were positive for BVDV via virus isolation (VI) and for BVDV antigen via immunohistochemical analysis in multiple tissues. Two additional fetuses from IM vaccinates were considered exposed to BVDV (one was seropositive for BVDV and the second was positive via VI in fetal tissues). A third fetus in the SC vaccinates was positive for BVDV via VI from serum alone. Vaccination against BVDV provided fetal protection in IM vaccinated (17/20) and SC vaccinated (17/20) heifers, but all control heifers (10/10) were considered infected. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance--1 dose of a BVDV1a and 2a MLV vaccine administered SC or IM prior to breeding helped protect against fetal infection in pregnant heifers exposed to cattle PI with BVDV1 b. (Am J Vet Res 2011 ;72:367-375) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) research has provided significant understanding of the disease over the past 26 years. Modern research tools that have been used include monoclonal antibodies, genomics, polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry (IHC), DNA vaccines and viral vectors coding for immunogens. Emerging/reemerging viruses and new antigenic strains of viruses and bacteria have been identified. Methods of detection and the role for cattle persistently infected bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) were identified; viral subunits, cellular components and bacterial products have been characterized. Product advances have included vaccines for bovine respiratory syncytial virus, Mannheimia haemolytica and Pasteurella multocida; the addition of BVDV2 to the existing vaccines and new antibiotics. The role of Mycoplasma spp., particularly Mycoplasma bovis in BRD, has been more extensively studied. Bovine immunology research has provided more specific information on immune responses, T cell subsets and cytokines. The molecular and genetic basis for viral-bacterial synergy in BRD has been described. Attempts have been made to document how prevention of BRD by proper vaccination and management prior to exposure to infectious agents can minimize disease and serve as economic incentives for certified health programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the impact of knowledge gaps to the development of U.S. control programs on bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV). It states that the primary objective of the study is to evaluate the effect of knowledge gaps that exist in BVDV studies on achieving comprehensive U.S. programs. It emphasizes the need to conduct researches on the efficacy of BVDV vaccines to understand which immune responses are effective. It concludes that test methods will help improve the control programs.

Objective--To evaluate economic effects and health and performance of the general cattle population after exposure to cattle persistently infected (PI) with bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) in a feedlot. Animals--21,743 high-risk calves from the southeastern United States. Procedures--PI status was determined by use of an antigen-capture ELISA (ACE) and confirmed by use of a second ACE, reverse transcriptase-PCR assay of sera, immunohistochemical analysis, and virus isolation from sera. Groups with various amounts of exposure to BVDV PI cattle were used. After being placed in the feedlot, identified PI cattle were removed from 1 section, but PI cattle remained in another section of the feedlot. Exposure groups for cattle lots arriving without PI animals were determined by spatial association to cattle lots, with PI animals remaining or removed from the lot. Results--15,348 cattle maintained their exposure group. Performance outcomes improved slightly among the 5 exposure groups as the risk for exposure to BVDV PI cattle decreased. Health outcomes had an association with exposure risk that depended on the exposure group. Comparing cattle lots with direct exposure with those without direct exposure revealed significant improvements in all performance outcomes and in first relapse percentage and mortality percentage in the health outcomes. Economic analysis revealed that fatalities accounted for losses of $5.26/animal and performance losses were $88.26/animal. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance--This study provided evidence that exposure of the general population of feedlot cattle to BVDV PI animals resulted in substantial costs attributable to negative effects on performance and increased fatalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective—To evaluate diagnostic tests used for detection of bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) and determine the prevalence of BVDV subtypes 1 a, 1 b, and 2a in persistently infected (PI) cattle entering a feedlot Design—Prospective study. Animals—21,743 calves Procedures—Samples were obtained from calves initially testing positive via antigen capture ELISA (ACE) performed on fresh skin (ear notch) specimens, and ACE was repeated. Additionally, immunohistochemistry (IHC) was performed on skin specimens fixed in neutral-buffered 10% formalin, and reverse transcriptase PCR (RT-PCR) assay and virus isolation were per formed on serum samples Virus was subtyped via sequencing of the 5′ untranslated region of the viral genome. Results—Initial ACE results were positive for BVDV in 88 calves After subsequent testing, results of ACE, IHC, RT-PCR assay, and viral isolation were positive in 86 of 88 calves; results of all subsequent tests were negative in 2 calves. Those 2 calves had false-positive test results On the basis of IHC results, 86 of 21,743 calves were PI with BVDV, resulting in a prevalence of 0.4%. Distribution of BVDV subtypes was BVDV1b (77.9%), BVDV1a (116%), and BVDV2a (10.5%) Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Rapid tests such as ACE permit identification and segregation of PI cattle pending results of further tests, thus reducing their contact with the rest of the feedlot population Although vaccines with BVDV1a and 2a components are given to cattle entering feedlots, these vaccines may not provide adequate protection against BVDV1b. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ancient duplication of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae genome and subsequent massive loss of duplicated genes is apparent when it is compared to the genomes of related species that diverged before the duplication event. To learn more about the evolutionary effects of the duplication event, we compared the S. cerevisiae genome to other Saccharomyces genomes. We demonstrate that the whole genome duplication occurred before S. castellii diverged from S. cerevisiae. In addition to more accurately dating the duplication event, this finding allowed us to study the effects of the duplication on two separate lineages. Analyses of the duplication regions of the genomes indicate that most of the duplicated genes (∼85%) were lost before the speciation. Only a small amount of paralogous gene loss (4–6%) occurred after speciation. On the other hand, S. castellii appears to have lost several hundred genes that were not retained as duplicated paralogs. These losses could be related to genomic rearrangements that reduced the number of chromosomes from 16 to 9. In addition to S. castellii, other Saccharomyces sensu lato species likely diverged from S. cerevisiae after the duplication. A thorough analysis of these species will likely reveal other important outcomes of the whole genome duplication [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The prevalence of bovine viral diarrhoea virus (BVDV) biotypes and subgenotypes was determined from 131 BVDV positive samples from a diagnostic laboratory. The majority of the isolates were from Oklahoma; however, other states including Kansas, Texas, and Arkansas were represented. These BVDV samples were from submissions of 76 live animals and 55 necropsy samples. There were 131 BVDV samples represented by 117 noncytopathic (NCP), 11 cytopathic (CP) and 3 cases with mixed NCP and CP biotypes. The NCP isolates were more common (P <0.05) than the CP and NCP/CP combination. The BVDV samples were segregated into three subgenotypes by differential PCR and sequencing of a viral genomic region, 5′-untranslated region (5′-UTR). There were more BVDV1b subgenotypes 60/131 (45.8%) than BVDV1a, 37/131 (28.2%) or BVDV2a, 34/131 (26.0%) (P <0.05). The organ system involvement included the major categories such as respiratory, digestive, mixed/multiple organs, abortions, and persistent infections (PI). All three BVDV subgenotypes were found in persistently infected (PI) cattle and respiratory diseases, both major requests for BVDV diagnosis. Only one of the 131 viruses was genetically similar to the strains present in U.S. vaccines. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The passive immunity transferred to calves from their dams was investigated in a beef herd to determine half-life of antibody, estimated time to seronegative status and effect on immunization. One hundred two beef calves in a commercial ranch under standard management conditions were utilized. Samples were collected at branding (day 0). This was the first possible date to collect samples postcalving. This was approximately 2 months postcalving, and days 95 and 116. The calves were divided into two groups: vaccinates (51) and nonvaccinates (51). The calves were vaccinated with a commercial inactivated viral vaccine containing bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV)1a, BVDV2, bovine herpesvirus-1 (BHV-1), parainfluenza-3 virus (PI-3V), and bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV) on days 0 and 95. Half of the vaccinated and unvaccinated calves also received one dose of an experimental Mannheimia haemolytica and Pasteurella multocida vaccine at day 95. Serums were tested for neutralizing antibody titers to BVDV1a, BVDV1b, BVDV2, BHV-1, PI-3V, and BRSV. Antibodies were detected by ELISA to M. haemolytica whole cell, M. haemolytica leukotoxin, and P. multocida outer membrane protein (OMP). The mean half-life of viral antibodies in nonvaccinated calves to each virus was: BVDV1a, 23.1 days (d); BVDV1b, 22.8 d; BVDV2, 22.9 d; BHV-1, 21.2 d; PI-3V, 30.3 d; and BRSV, 35.9 d. The mean half-life of viral antibodies was greater for vaccinates than for nonvaccinates for all viruses except BRSV. The calculated mean time to seronegative status for nonvaccinates based on titers at day 0 was: BVDV1a, 192.2 d; BVDV1b, 179.1 d; BVDV2, 157.8 d; BHV-1, 122.9 d; PI-3V, 190.6 d; and BRSV, 186.7 d. There was an active immune response after vaccination with two doses to all the viruses, except BRSV. Mean antibody titers of vaccinates at day 116 were statistically higher than nonvaccinates for all viruses except BRSV. However on an individual calf basis there were few seroconversions (four-fold rise or greater to BVDV1a, BVDV1b, BVDV2, PI-3V, or BRSV; or two-fold rise for BHV-1) in the presence of viral antibodies. The predicted time of seronegative status for a group of calves for vaccination programs may not be appropriate as there may be a range of titers for all calves at day 0. In this study the range for BVDV1a was 16–16,384; BVDV1b, 8–8192; BVDV2, 0–8192; BHV-1, 0–935; PI-3V, 8–2048; and BRSV, 8–4096. Using the half-life of 23 d for BVDV1a, the time thereafter for seronegative status would be 46 and 299 d compared to the calculated date of 192.2 d using the mean of estimated time to seronegative status for all the calves. There was an active humoral response in the vaccinated calves to M. haemolytica and P. multocida. Cowherd humoral immunity based on serum antibodies should be monitored as it may relate to transfer of maternal antibodies to calves. Exceptionally high levels of viral antibodies transferred to calves could interfere with the antibody response to vaccination. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This paper undertakes a critical review of two concepts, "Anticipatory Grief", introduced into the literature by Eric Lindemann in the 1940s, and "Anticipatory Mourning", recently proposed by Therese Rando in her book Clinical Dimensions of Anticipatory Mourning. The introduction of the term "Anticipatory Mourning" allows us the opportunity to re-examine our ideas about human response to loss through death. Presently, controversy surrounds the theories associated with grief and mourning. Recent research challenges long held assumptions. Beyond directing the attention of the physician or other caregiver to the emotional state of the survivor serious reservations are expressed regarding the theoretical or practical value of either concept. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human chromosome 7 has historically received prominent attention in the human genetics community, primarily related to the search for the cystic fibrosis gene and the frequent cytogenetic changes associated with various forms of cancer. Here we present more than 153 million base pairs representing 99.4% of the euchromatic sequence of chromosome 7, the first metacentric chromosome completed so far. The sequence has excellent concordance with previously established physical and genetic maps, and it exhibits an unusual amount of segmentally duplicated sequence (8.2%), with marked differences between the two arms. Our initial analyses have identified 1,150 protein-coding genes, 605 of which have been confirmed by complementary DNA sequences, and an additional 941 pseudogenes. Of genes confirmed by transcript sequences, some are polymorphic for mutations that disrupt the reading frame. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seronegative persistently infected (PI) calves with bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) subtype 1b were vaccinated with each of four modified live virus (MLV) BVDV vaccines and a Mannheimia haemolytica bacterin-toxoid. Nasal swabs and peripheral blood leukocytes (PBL) were collected for virus isolation and serums were collected after vaccination and tested for BVDV1a, BVDV1b, BVDV2, bovine herpesvirus-1 (BHV-1), bovine parainfluenza-3 virus (PI-3V), and bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV) antibodies. M. haemolytica and Pasteurella multocida antibodies were detected using ELISA procedures. None of the PI calves developed mucosal disease (MD) after MLV vaccination. None of the BVDV PI calves seroconverted to BVDV1b after MLV vaccination. Calves receiving MLV vaccines seroconverted to the respective type/subtype in the vaccine. Calves receiving a MLV vaccine with noncytopathic (NCP) BVDV1 (subtype not designated) did not seroconvert to BVDV1a, BVDV1b, or BVDV2. The PI calves were positive for BVDV subtype 1b, in the PBL and nasal swabs throughout the study. Calves receiving each of three vaccines with known BVDV1a strains had BVDV1a positive samples after vaccination, in some but not all calves, up to Day 28. The PI BVDV1b calves did not respond with increased M. haemolytica antibodies after vaccination compared to BVDV negative calves receiving the same M. haemolytica vaccine. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Bovine viral diarrhoea virus (BVDV) infections in cattle are associated with a variety or “diverse” clinical forms. These include digestive tract, respiratory, foetal (varied, dependent on foetal age), haemorrhagic and systemic diseases such as mucosal disease, and immunosuppression and inapparent infections. The BVDV isolates themselves are “diverse” with genotype differences based on nucleotide sequences, antigenic variability and biotypes (presence or absence of cytopathology in cell culture). Two predominant genotypes are present in the US, BVDV1 and BVDV2. There are subtypes of BVDV1, namely BVDV1a and BVDV1b. Examination of BVDV isolates from cattle derived from diagnostic laboratory submissions indicates that BVDV1b subtype isolates were as prevalent if not more prevalent than BVDV1a isolates. There was an almost equal distribution of BVDV1b and BVDV1a isolates from cattle with history of respiratory disease, and more isolates, 6 versus 2, of BVDV1b than for BVDV1a in necropsy cases of pneumonia. There were significant antibody titre differences in sera from calves receiving modified live virus vaccines containing BVDV1a, with the BVDV1b antibody titres being significantly lower. A survey of the US licensed and marketed BVDV vaccines indicates that only one vaccine contains BVDV1b with the others containing BVDV1a or undesignated BVDV1. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This article discusses various research on the taboo that surrounded death, and attitudes concerning death in the U.S. Various factors and social trends played part in death avoidance. Other developments such as urbanization also reinforced the avoidance and denial of death. From the end of World War II until the late 1960s, public discussion of death was, to a large extent, muted and almost always euphemistic. Death was an omnipotent specter, beyond human understanding and control, something one did not discuss. Indeed, it was considered impolite to talk about death, as though to utter the word was to evoke its presence. In the 1970s, interest in the subject of death grew rapidly. Many significant events that led to the interest in death occurred in the 1970s. Expressions of professional and public interest on the subject of death were generated by the stresses and strains placed on our social relations and institutional facilities at the time and by the particular problems that death presented by the American family and community. Regardless of one's viewpoint, the fact remains that death is inevitable. These two fundamental conditions of existence, death and separation, have forever beleaguered humankind.