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Persons who inject drugs (PWID) and exchange sex face disproportionate HIV rates. We assessed prevalence of exchange sex (receiving money/drugs for sex from ≥ 1 male partner(s) during the past year) among cisgender PWID, separately for women and men with a history of sex with men (MSM). We examined factors associated with exchange sex, including sociodemographic characteristics, sexual and drug use behaviors, and healthcare access/utilization. Over one-third of the 4657 participants reported exchange sex (women: 36.2%; MSM: 34.8%). Women who exchanged sex (WES) were significantly more likely to test HIV-positive than other women. Men who exchanged sex with men (MESM) showed a similar trend. WES and MESM shared many characteristics, including being uninsured, experiencing recent homelessness, condomless sex, polydrug use, and receptive/distributive needle sharing. These findings highlight a need to strengthen prevention interventions and address structural determinants of HIV for WES and MESM, particularly PWID who exchange sex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Before 2016, human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination was recommended on a 3-dose schedule. However, many vaccine-eligible US females received fewer than 3 doses, which provided an opportunity to evaluate the real-world vaccine effectiveness (VE) of 1, 2, and 3 doses. We analyzed data on cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) grades 2–3 and adenocarcinoma in situ (designated CIN2+) from the HPV Vaccine Impact Monitoring Project (HPV-IMPACT; 2008–2014). Archived tissue from CIN2+ lesions was tested for 37 types of HPV. Women were classified by number of doses received ≥24 months before CIN2+ detection. Using a test-negative design, VE was estimated as 1 minus the adjusted odds ratio from a logistic regression model that compared vaccination history for women whose lesions tested positive for HPV-16/18 (vaccine-type cases) with that for women who had all other CIN2+ lesions (controls). Among 3,300 women with available data on CIN2+, typing results, and vaccine history, 1,561 (47%) were HPV-16/18–positive, 136 (4%) received 1 dose of HPV vaccine, 108 (3%) received 2 doses, and 325 (10%) received 3 doses. Adjusted odds ratios for vaccination with 1, 2, and 3 doses were 0.53 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.37, 0.76; VE = 47%), 0.45 (95% CI: 0.30, 0.69; VE = 55%), and 0.26 (95% CI: 0.20, 0.35; VE = 74%), respectively. We found significant VE against vaccine-type CIN2+ after 3 doses of HPV vaccine and lower but significant VE with 1 or 2 doses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background We describe changes in rates of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grades 2, 3 and adenocarcinoma in situ (CIN2+) during a period of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine uptake and changing cervical cancer screening recommendations. Methods We conducted population-based laboratory surveillance for CIN2+ in catchment areas in 5 states, 2008–2015. We calculated age-specific CIN2+ rates per 100000 women by age groups. We estimated incidence rate ratios (IRR) of CIN2+ for 2-year periods among all women and among screened women to evaluate changes over time. Results A total of 16572 CIN2+ cases were reported. Among women aged 18–20 and 21–24 years, CIN2+ rates declined in all sites, whereas in women aged 25–29, 30–34, and 35–39 years, trends differed across sites. The percent of women screened annually declined in all sites and age groups. Compared to 2008–2009, rates among screened women were significantly lower for all 3 periods in women aged 18–20 years (2010–2011: IRR 0.82, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.67–0.99; 2012–2013: IRR 0.63, 95% CI 0.47–0.85; 2014–2015: IRR 0.44, 95% CI 0.28–0.68) and lower for the latter 2 time periods in women aged 21–24 years (2012–2013: IRR 0.86, 95% CI 0.79–0.94; 2014–2015: IRR 0.61, 95% CI 0.55–0.67). Conclusions From 2008–2015, both CIN2+ rates and cervical cancer screening declined in women aged 18–24 years. The significant decreases in CIN2+ rates among screened women aged 18–24 years are consistent with a population-level impact of HPV vaccination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article reports on the prevalence of extragenital chlamydia and gonorrhea among men who have sex with men (MSM) in U.S. in 2017. The cases were from MSM-frequented venues in five cities including New York City, Washington, D.C., and Houston, Texas. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) used the Aptima Combo 2 Panther system to examine specimens of MSM patients.

Many federal, state, and local education policy priorities are aimed at preparing high school students, especially those at risk, to be college- and career-ready when they graduate from high school. A number of programs across different institutional entities have been initiated to achieve these goals, encompassing individual partnerships with schools. Many of these programs include a variety of interventions, ranging from college and course counseling to college visits. Although there have been some evaluations of the larger federal programs, and some state and district programs, few have examined national observational data on the impact of these programmatic efforts on college enrollments. This study uses the HSLS:09 database to investigate the impact of specific treatments in at-risk schools on college enrollments. Results show that several of these programmatic initiatives have a positive effect on college enrollment; however, the effects are small compared to some of those reported by other national studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trophoblast differentiation during placentation involves an epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) with loss of E-cadherin and gain of trophoblast invasiveness. Mice harboring a point mutation that renders inactive the mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase kinase MEKK4 exhibit dysregulated placental development with increased trophoblast invasion. Isolated MEKK4 kinase-inactive trophoblast stem (TS) cells cultured under undifferentiating, self-renewing conditions in the presence of fibroblast growth factor 4 (FGF4) display increased expression of Slug, Twist, and matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2), loss of E-cadherin, and hyperinvasion of extracellular matrix, each a hallmark of EMT. MEKK4 kinase-inactive TS cells show a preferential differentiation to Tpbpα- and Gcm1-positive trophoblasts, which are indicative of spongiotrophoblast and syncytiotrophoblast differentiation, respectively. FGF4-stimulated Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 activity is markedly reduced in MEKK4 kinase-inactive TS cells. Chemical inhibition of JNK in wild-type TS cells induced a similar EMT response as loss of MEKK4 kinase activity, including inhibition of E-cadherin expression and increased expression of Slug, MMP2, Tpbpα, and Gcm1. Chromatin immunoprecipitation analyses revealed changes in AP-1 composition with increased Fra-2 and decreased Fra-1 and JunB binding to the regulatory regions of Gcm1 and MMP2 genes in MEKK4 kinase-inactive TS cells. Our results define MEKK4 as a signaling hub for FGF4 activation of JNK that is required for maintenance of TS cells in an undifferentiated state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radiographic osteopenia is regularly observed after implant removal from a fracture or femoral osteotomy but has not been objectively quantified. Hardware removal is generally performed months to years after the index event (fracture or osteotomy) when full activity has been resumed. Objectively demonstrable bone mineral deficiency affects fracture risk. Hardware removal may facilitate the return to normal bone mineral density. Children who had dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scans following femoral implant removal were retrospectively reviewed to assess the percent of change in bone mineral density and change in Z-scores. The femoral neck and the lateral distal femora were scanned, comparing the operated side with unaffected femur as a control. Sixteen children were included. Patients demonstrated up to 15.4% (average, 4.8%) less bone mineral density in the femoral neck region, up to 43% less (average, 16.5%) in the metabolically active distal metaphyseal region, and up to 18.1% less (average, 6.3%) in the transitional region. No statistical difference was noted in the diaphyseal region. A statistically significant decrease in Z-score was noted when plate and screw constructs (average change, -- 0.97 SD) as compared with intramedullary nail constructs (average change, -- 0.33 SD) were used. Children can exhibit statistically significant decreases in bone mineral density in the femoral neck and distal femur following femoral implant removal, with plate and screw constructs demonstrating a greater effect than intramedullary (load sharing) devices. This has implications for return to activity and suggests that implant removal may be important in restoration of bone strength in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abundant populations of elk (Cervus elaphus) are cherished game in many regions of the world and also cause considerable human–wildlife conflicts through depredation on agriculture and speciality crops, lack of regeneration to native ecosystems, collisions with vehicles and transmission of disease between free-ranging and farmed hoofstock. Management of elk varies, depending on current and historical agency objectives, configuration of the landscapes elk occupy, public perception, population density and behaviour of elk. Selection of the method to manage elk often requires knowledge of timing of impacts, duration relief from elk damage is desired, cost-effectiveness of management activities, tolerance of impacts, public perception of management strategies and motivation or habituation of elk to determine the likelihood of success for a proposed management action. We reviewed methods that are available to control abundant populations of elk that include lethal (e.g. hunting, sharpshooting) and non-lethal (e.g. fertility control, frightening) options. We promote an integrated approach that incorporates the timely use of a variety of cost-effective methods to reduce impacts to tolerable levels. Lethal options that include regulated hunting, sharpshooting and aerial gunning vary by likelihood of success, duration needed for population reduction, cost to implement reduction and public perceptions. Several non-lethal options are available to affect population dynamics directly (e.g. fertility control, translocation), protect resources from damage (e.g. fences, repellents) or influence space use of elk on a regular basis (e.g. harassment, frightening, herding dogs, humans). Public perception should be considered by agencies that are looking for feasible methods to control populations of elk. Disturbance to residents or visitors of public property may influence methods of management employed. Future research should explore the duration of harassment needed to avert elk from sensitive areas and costs to implement such programs. Several methods in our review were implemented on deer and additional research on elk and other cervids in conflict with human interests would provide a much needed component to our understanding of management methods available for ungulate species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report on the chemical synthesis, structural and compositional characterization, and hierarchical organization of Co-core, concentric CoO–Au multi-shell nanocrystals (Co@CoO@Au). Based on electron microscopy, magnetometry and spectroscopy experiments, we present compelling evidence for the formation of the Au outer shell on CoO, challenging the common assumption that the reduction reaction to form Au shells can only occur if the cobalt surface has not oxidized. Our findings suggest that the presence of a metal shell surrounding a transition-metal core nanocrystal following such a reduction reaction cannot be taken as evidence that the transition metal oxide is absent from the surface of the nanocrystal core. We find that Au shell growth can produce Co@CoO@Au nanocrystals possessing five-fold twinning symmetry and we suggest that their growth is facilitated through self nucleation and coalescence of Au particles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the issues faced by U.S. airlines to control costs and improve operations. A detailed comparison of two major airlines which includes American Airlines Inc. and Southwest Airlines Co. was performed to identify key differences and to confirm the areas on which airlines need to focus improvement efforts. Cause and effect diagrams used to identify the factors triggering the issues are discussed. Process analysis used to offer improvements to reduce costs and improve customer service are also discussed. It is stated that analysis was based on publicly available airline and industry information.

Reaction of Al(OiPr)3with the tris-phenol amine ligand L1H3in toluene at ambient temperature results in the formation of the iso-propanol adduct [HOiPr·Al(L1)]. Single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis reveals the structure to be a hydrogen bonded dimer. Reaction of Al(OiPr)3(or AlMe3) with L1H3in THF affords the related, and structurally characterised THF adduct, [THF·Al(L1)]. Similar reaction of Al(OiPr)3(or AlMe3) with the bis-phenol amine and tetra-phenol diamine ligands, L2H3and L3H4, results in the formation and isolation of the complexes [Al(L2)]2and [Al(L3)H] respectively, both of which have been structurally characterised viasingle crystal X-ray diffraction studies. Reaction of the alkoxide bridged dimer [Al(L2)]2with the strong Lewis base HMPA results in the formation of the monomeric HMPA adduct [HMPA·Al(L2)] which was also structurally characterised. The adduct [HOiPr·Al(L1)] and the dimer [Al(L2)]2were tested for their activity in the ring-opening polymerisation (ROP) of rac-lactide under solvent-free conditions (130 °C). Under the conditions employed [Al(L2)]2failed to produce polymer after 48 h, in stark contrast to [HOiPr·Al(L1)] which after 24 h and 48 h produced narrow molecular weight polymer (24 h: yield = 25%, Mn= 14500 and PDI = 1.05; 48 h: yield = 65%, Mn= 47700 and PDI = 1.06). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the U.S. Supreme Court's decision in Leegin Creative Leather Products v. PSKS Inc. case on June 28, 2007, in which the court held that it was legal for a franchisor or manufacturer to control the resale pricing of its franchisees, distributors, or dealers. The ruling stated that all such pricing agreements were subject to the rule of reason, under which the claimant must show that the arrangement substantially harms competition in the market as a whole.

A detailed morphometric analysis of the cerebellum in autism with and without macrocephaly. Four subject groups (N= 65; male; IQs ≥ 65; age 7 to 26 years) were studied with quantitative MRI; normocephalic and macrocephalic individuals with autism without mental retardation were compared to normocephalic and benign macrocephalic typically developing individuals. Total cerebellum volumes and surface areas of four lobular midsagittal groups were measured. Independent t-tests between autism and control subjects matched for head size revealed no significant differences. Multivariate analyses of variance were also performed, using the diagnostic group as the fixed factor, cerebellar measures as the dependent variables and total intracranial volume, total brain volume, age, verbal IQ, and performance IQ as covariates. No significant differences were found; however, a trend was noted in which macrocephalic individuals with autism consistently exhibited slightly smaller cerebellar volume or surface area when compared to individuals with benign macrocephaly. In autism, with and without macrocephaly, cerebellar structures were found to be proportional to head size and did not differ from typically developing subjects. (JINS, 2008, 14, 401–413.) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The protein kinase TAK1 (transforming growth factor-β-activated kinase 1), which has been implicated in the activation of MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase) cascades and the production of inflammatory mediators by LPS (lipopolysaccharide), IL-1 (interleukin 1) and TNF (tumour necrosis factor), comprises the catalytic subunit complexed to the regulatory subunits, termed TAB (TAK1-binding subunit) 1 and either TAB2 or TAB3. We have previously identified a feedback-control mechanism by which p38α MAPK down-regulates TAK1 and showed that p38α MAPK phosphorylates TAB1 at Ser423 and Thr431. In the present study, we identified two IL-1-stimulated phosphorylation sites on TAB2 (Ser372 and Ser524) and three on TAB3 (Ser60, Thr404 and Ser506) in human IL-1R cells [HEK-293 (human embryonic kidney) cells that stably express the IL-1 receptor] and MEFs (mouse embryonic fibroblasts). Ser372 and Ser524 of TAB2 are not phosphorylated by pathways dependent on p38α/β MAPKs, ERK1/2 (extracellular-signal-regulated kinase 1/2) and JNK1/2 (c-Jun N-terminal kinase 1/2). In contrast, Ser60 and Thr404 of TAB3 appear to be phosphorylated directly by p38α MAPK, whereas Ser506 is phosphorylated by MAPKAP-K2/MAPKAP-K3 (MAPK-activated protein kinase 2 and 3), which are protein kinases activated by p38α MAPK. Studies using TAB1−/− MEFs indicate important roles for TAB1 in recruiting p38α MAPK to the TAK1 complex for the phosphorylation of TAB3 at Ser60 and Thr404 and in inhibiting the dephosphorylation of TAB3 at Ser506. TAB1 is also required to induce TAK1 catalytic activity, since neither IL-1 nor TNFα was able to stimulate detectable TAK1 activity in TAB1−/− MEFs. Surprisingly, the IL-1 and TNFα-stimulated activation of MAPK cascades and IκB (inhibitor of nuclear factor κB) kinases were similar in TAB1−/−, MEKK3−/− [MAPK/ERK (extracellular-signal-regulated kinase) kinase kinase 3] and wild-type MEFs, suggesting that another MAP3K (MAPK kinase kinase) may mediate the IL-1/TNFα-induced activation of these signalling pathways in TAB1−/− and MEKK3−/− MEFs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multi-wall carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were modified by an oxygen radio frequency plasma treatment, the appropriate duration of which was determined from post-treatment high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) images. A comparison of HRTEM results from gold-decorated pristine and plasma treated CNTs showed that the plasma treatment improves the uniformity of the distribution of surface defects. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirms that oxygen atoms attach to the surface of CNTs. Changes in the C 1s photoemission signal point towards a loss of delocalization of valence electrons, confirmed by the modifications of valence band spectra, and consistent with currently accepted theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Treatment of the titanium(iv) alkoxide complex [Ti(OiPr)(OC6Me2H2CH2)3N] (2) with BH3·THF, as part of a study into the utility and reactivity of (2) in the metal mediated borane reduction of acetophenone, results in alkoxide–hydride exchange and formation of the structurally characterised titanium(iv) tetrahydroborate complex [Ti{BH4}(OC6Me2H2CH2)3N] (3). Complex (3) readily undergoes reduction to form the isolable titanium(iii) species [Ti(OC6Me2H2CH2)3N]2 (4). Reaction of (2) with B(C6F5)3 results in formation of the Lewis acid adduct [Ti(OC6Me2H2CH2)3N][HO·B(C6F5)3] (5). In comparison, treatment of the less sterically encumbered alkoxide Ti(OiPr)4 with B(C6F5)3 results in alkoxide–aryl exchange and formation of the organometallic titanium complex [Ti(OiPr)3(C6F5)]2 (6). The molecular structures of 3, 4, 5 and 6 have been determined by X-ray diffraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports an experimental and theoretical investigation of the indentation of a layered elastic solid, with special reference to the surface force apparatus (SFA). The contacting surfaces of the SFA comprise a 3-layer material: a thin mica surface layer on a thicker epoxy layer supported by a thick silica substrate. An existing finite element analysis of the deformation of ideal mica/epoxy/silica surfaces used in the SFA is adapted to compare with the experimental measurements of the variation of contact size with load, both with and without adhesion at the interface. This is in marked difference to the Johnson, Kendall and Roberts (JKR) theory for homogeneous solids. Experiments and finite element calculations were also carried out on the elastic indentation of a thin (5.5 µm) layer of mica on a very thick layer of epoxy (>100 µm). As input data for the calculations, the elastic moduli of the mica and epoxy were measured in separate indentation experiments. The stiffness of a layered solid can be expressed by an 'effective modulus' E_{\rme}^{\ast} , which has been deduced from the experimental measurements and compared with the theoretical values with fair success. The work of adhesion is commonly measured in the SFA by observing the 'pull-off force' to separate the surfaces. The theory shows that, for a layered solid, the pull-force can vary significantly from the JKR value for a homogeneous solid. In particular, it was found that the mica surface energy, gsv, measured by SFA experiments using crossed cylinders of mean radius R, where the materials are layered and the mica/mica adhesion is high, can vary with the pull-off force Fp according to Fp/4pR < gsv < Fp/2pR, and for this particular experiment was given as gsv = Fp/3.5 pR as compared with gsv = Fp/3pR for homogeneous materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The molecular chaperone Hsp (heat-shock protein) 90 is critical for the activity of diverse cellular client proteins. In a current model, client proteins are transferred from Hsp70 to Hsp90 in a process mediated by the co-chaperone Sti1/Hop, which may simultaneously interact with Hsp70 and Hsp90 via separate TPR (tetratricopeptide repeat) domains, but the mechanism and in vivo importance of this function is unclear. In the present study, we used truncated forms of Sti1 to determine the minimal regions required for the Hsp70 and Hsp90 interaction, as well as Sti1 dimerization. We found that both TPR1 and TPR2B contribute to the Hsp70 interaction in vivo and that mutations in both TPR1 and TPR2B were required to disrupt the in vitro interaction of Sti1 with the C-terminus of the Hsp70 Ssa1. The TPR2A domain was required for the Hsp90 interaction in vivo, but the isolated TPR2A domain was not sufficient for the Hsp90 interaction unless combined with the TPR2B domain. However, isolated TPR2A was both necessary and sufficient for purified Sti1 to migrate as a dimer in solution. The DP2 domain, which is essential for in vivo function, was dispensable for the Hsp70 and Hsp90 interaction, as well as Sti1 dimerization. As evidence for the role of Sti1 in mediating the interaction between Hsp70 and Hsp90 in vivo, we identified Sti1 mutants that result in reduced recovery of Hsp70 in Hsp90 complexes. We also identified two Hsp90 mutants that exhibit a reduced Hsp70 interaction, which may help clarify the mechanism of client transfer between the two molecular chaperones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted to determine whether intramammary antibiotic treatment of heifer mammary glands following the first milking after calving was effective for reducing the percentage of mammary quarters infected during early lactation. Jersey and Holstein heifers from two research herds were assigned to one of three treatment groups: (1) no intramammary infusion following the first milking after parturition, (2) intramammary infusion of all quarters with pirlimycin hydrochloride following the first milking after parturition and (3) intramammary infusion of all quarters with novobiocin sodium plus penicillin G procaine following the first milking after parturition. Almost 93% of Jersey heifers (40/43) and 73·1% of quarters (125/171) were infected at the first milking. Almost 77% of quarters (33/43) were cured following treatment with pirlimycin, 61·8% (21/34) were cured following treatment with penicillin-novobiocin and 39·6% (19/48) of infections were eliminated spontaneously in the untreated control group. Significantly fewer infections were observed in pirlimycin or penicillin-novobiocin treated mammary glands of Jersey heifers during early lactation than in untreated control mammary glands. Almost 89% of Holstein heifers (32/36) and 52·8% of quarters (76/144) were infected at the first milking. About 57% (12/21) of quarters were cured following treatment with pirlimycin, 41·4% (12/29) were cured following treatment with penicillin-novobiocin and 23·1% (6/26) of infections were eliminated spontaneously in the untreated negative control group. Significantly fewer infections were observed in pirlimycin treated mammary glands of Holstein heifers during early lactation than in untreated control mammary glands. However, no significant differences were observed following penicillin-novobiocin treatment of Holstein heifers after the first milking of lactation compared with untreated control quarters. Coagulase-negative staphylococci, Streptococcus uberis and Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp dysgalactiae were isolated most frequently in heifers from both herds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neutrophils kill micro-organisms using microbicidal products that they release into the phagosome or into the extracellular space. The secretory machinery utilized by neutrophils is poorly characterized. We show that the small GTPase Rab27a is an essential component of the secretory machinery of azurophilic granules in granulocytes. Rab27a-deficient mice have impaired secretion of MPO (myeloperoxidase) into the plasma in response to lipopolysaccharide. Cell fractionation analysis revealed that Rab27a and the Rab27a effector protein JFC1/Slp1 (synaptotagmin-like protein 1) are distributed principally in the low-density fraction containing a minor population of MPO-containing granules. By immunofluorescence microscopy, we detected Rab27a and JFC1/Slp1 in a minor subpopulation of MPO-containing granules. Interference with the JFC1/Slp1–Rab27a secretory machinery impaired secretion of MPO in permeabilized neutrophils. The expression of Rab27a was dramatically increased when promyelocytic HL-60 cells were differentiated into granulocytes but not when they were differentiated into monocytes. Down-regulation of Rab27a in HL-60 cells by RNA interference did not affect JFC1/Slp1 expression but significantly decreased the secretion of MPO. Neither Rab27a nor JFC1/Slp1 was integrated into the phagolysosome membrane during phagocytosis. Neutrophils from Rab27a-deficient mice efficiently phagocytose zymosan opsonized particles and deliver MPO to the phagosome. We conclude that Rab27a and JFC1/Slp1 permit MPO release into the surrounding milieu and constitute key components of the secretory machinery of azurophilic granules in granulocytes. Our results suggest that the granules implicated in cargo release towards the surrounding milieu are molecularly and mechanistically different from those involved in their release towards the phagolysosome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Similarities and differences in foraging behaviour between first and third instar Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) on Vigna radiata (L.) R. Wilczek (Fabaceae) (mung bean) were determined by frequent, repeated observation of insects on whole plants. The time apportioned to feeding, resting and searching by these two larval instars differed. Third instars were often found feeding on exposed areas of the plant and, if in the terminal parts, would leave these areas more frequently than first instars. Third instars fed at fewer sites and spent less time searching and resting, fed in longer bouts and spent 20% more time feeding than first instars. Although both instars tended to move upwards to the top of the plant, this applied to approximately half of the third instars observed compared to all of the first instars. First instars were found to have a higher relative growth rate than third instars. The results show that it cannot be assumed that first instars are just smaller versions of late instars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review focuses on the recognition properties of protein kinases at the molecular level. Phosphorylation of the substrate protein by a protein kinase can result in enzyme activation or inhibition, conformational changes that change recognition properties, or the creation of a surface with distinct binding properties. Protein kinases have become important targets for the development of inhibitors with potential therapeutic application. Various examples are considered in this review, and I discuss our own work on glycogen phosphorylase and phosphorylase kinase, and the structures of proteins involved with the cell cycle, including cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review focuses on the recognition properties of protein kinases at the molecular level. Phosphorylation of the substrate protein by a protein kinase can result in enzyme activation or inhibition, conformational changes that change recognition properties, or the creation of a surface with distinct binding properties. Protein kinases have become important targets for the development of inhibitors with potential therapeutic application. Various examples are considered in this review, and I discuss our own work on glycogen phosphorylase and phosphorylase kinase, and the structures of proteins involved with the cell cycle, including cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Displacement of herbivorous insects by the presence of predators on whole plants has rarely been studied. By semi-continuous observations of an externally feeding insect herbivore and a predator, we show how the mere presence of the predator,Geocoris lubraKirkaldy (Hemiptera: Geocoridae), on a plant can have a strong influence on the movement and behaviors ofHelicoverpa armigera(H?bner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) larvae. The presence of predators, as opposed to mortality by predators, influenced the proportion of larvae feeding, resting and implementing avoidance activities. In addition, the proportion of time individual larvae allocated to feeding, resting and dropping off plants was affected when predators were present with and without contact between the two. Predators do more than just reduce numbers of herbivores; they influence feeding, displacement and subsequently the distribution of plant damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract??Characterization of a reservoir model requires determination of its petrophysical parameters, such as porosity and saturation. We propose a new method to determine these parameters directly from seismic data. The method consists of the computation and inversion of seismic waveforms. A high frequency method is presented to model wave propagation through an attenuative and dispersive poroelastic medium. The high frequency approximation makes it possible to efficiently compute sensitivity functions. This enables the inversion of seismic waveforms for porosity and saturation. The waveform inversion algorithm is applied to two laboratory crosswell datasets of a water saturated sand. The starting models were obtained using travel time tomography. The first dataset is inverted for porosity. The misfit reduction for this dataset is approximately 50%. The second dataset was obtained after injection of a nonaqueous-phase liquid (NAPL), possibly with some air, which made the medium more heterogeneous. This dataset was inverted for NAPL and air saturation using the porosity model obtained from the first inversion. The misfit reduction of the second experiment was 70%. Regions of high NAPL and high air saturation were found at the same location. These areas correlate well with the position of one of the injection points as well as regions of higher NAPL concentrations found after excavation of the sand. It is therefore possible to directly invert waveforms for pore fluid saturation by taking into account the attenuation and dispersion caused by the poroelasticity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The long-term effectiveness of the Parent-Child Development Centers (PCDCs) as programs to prevent behavior problems in children was examined with follow-up data collected 6–13 years after program completion. Data were collected for 581 children who had been in the programs with their mothers (Ns: Birmingham, 151; New Orleans, 186; Houston, 244). Mothers and teachers were interviewed. There were few significant differences between program and control groups. Only the early cohorts of the Houston program showed significant differences between groups on the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Increased second-trimester levels of maternal serum HCG in IVF conceptions lead to an increased false-positive rate in Down syndrome screening. Increased levels of cell-free fetal DNA (cffDNA) in maternal plasma have been correlated with increased HCG levels. Our aim was to determine whether cffDNA levels are elevated in IVF pregnancies compared with natural pregnancies. METHODS: Sixteen archived second-trimester serum samples from IVF pregnancies were matched with five control samples from naturally conceived pregnancies per case, all carrying a singleton male fetus. cffDNA concentrations were measured by real-time PCR amplification of a Y chromosome sequence and compared with four standard second trimester serum screening markers (a-fetoprotein, estriol, HCG and inhibin A). RESULTS: Mean cffDNA levels for cases and controls were 57.9 and 57.1 genome equivalents/ml, respectively (P = 0.95). Mean observed rank (from 1 to 6) of cffDNA was 3.625 in the IVF conceived group, compared with an expected value of 3.5 (P = 0.53). No significant correlations were observed between cffDNA and serum markers. CONCLUSIONS: IVF does not affect levels of cffDNA, which appears to be independent of traditional screening markers (e.g. HCG). Therefore, cffDNA can be used as an additional serum marker (e.g. Down syndrome screening) without adjustment for IVF pregnancies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To determine the quantitative differences in telithromycin and azithromycin MIC values against Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae and Streptococcus pyogenes obtained using two recommended and commonly used methodologies: CLSI reference standard broth microdilution in ambient air and Etest concentration gradient in CO2.Methods: Four hundred clinical isolates (S. pneumoniae, n=200; H. influenzae, n=100; S. pyogenes, n=100) were evaluated in seven independent laboratories. Telithromycin and azithromycin MICs were determined using CLSI broth microdilution panels incubated in ambient air and Etest strips incubated in CO2. Standard quality control reference strainsS. pneumoniae ATCC 49619 (n=10) and H. influenzae ATCC 49247 (n=10)were also tested.Results: Telithromycin and azithromycin Etest MICs in CO2 were elevated for all organisms when compared with values obtained using broth microdilution in ambient air. Telithromycin geometric mean MIC values increased in CO2 by 2.05, 1.00 and 1.78 log2 dilutions for S. pneumoniae,H. influenzae and S. pyogenes, respectively. The corresponding values for azithromycin were 2.54, 1.21 and 3.0 log2 dilutions, respectively.Conclusions: Telithromycin MICs measured using Etest in CO2 are consistently elevated compared with those generated by CLSI broth microdilution measured in ambient air. These findings indicate that Etest should not be routinely used for the determination of telithromycin MICs against S. pneumoniae, H. influenzae and S. pyogenes, unless appropriate corrective factors are applied before reporting MICs or applying interpretive susceptibilities. Based on results from this study, Etest MIC breakpoints and quality control ranges are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The role of TGF-β TNF-α FasL and Bcl-2 in apoptosis of CD4 T-cells during active TB was studied. Coculture of PBMC from TB patients with neutralizing antibodies to TGF-β or TNF-α decreased spontaneous (P ≰ 0.05) and MTB-induced (P≰ 0.02) T-cell apoptosis by 50–90%, but effects were not additive. Interestingly, only levels of TGF-β in supernatants correlated with rates of spontaneous and MTB-induced apoptosis. FasL surface and mRNA expression were higher in unstimulated and MTB-stimulated PBMC from patients than controls, and neutralization of FasL abrogated apoptosis of T-cells from patients only. Intracellular Bcl-2 protein was lower among unstimulated CD4 T-cells from patients than those from controls (P ≰ 0.02), and MTB stimulation reduced intracellular Bcl-2 content in CD4 T-cells from patients only (P ≰ 0.001). These findings may indicate that, during TB, predisposition of CD4 T-cells to apoptosis may involve both low expression of Bcl-2, and excessive expression of TGF-β TNF-α and FasL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A palynological approach was used to estimate overbank deposition rates in a forested catchment affected by logging. The palynological approach uses downcore variations in total fossil pollen and fossil pollen assemblage to calculate rates of overbank deposition and has a distinct advantage over radioisotopic approaches in that it is not limited by radioactive decay. Using this approach, we determined that overbank deposition rates increased over 400 per cent within years of logging events and that the increased rates persisted for less than 4 years. After logging-induced deposition peaked, overbank deposition decreased over 60 per cent relative to the pre-logging background values. The decreased deposition rates persisted for over 40 years. The immediate effect of logging in this catchment was to induce mass-wasting events in hollows that produced rapidly travelling sediment pulses. In the subsequent recovery period, reduced sediment loading occurred as a result of a reduction in the volume of sediment available for transport. The reduction in sediment load led to a reduction in overbank deposition rates until subsequent logging disturbances destabilized and emptied other hollows. Copyright 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The distortions introduced into high-resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM) images by the projector lens system are an important source of systematic error for quantitative displacement and strain determination. Using geometric phase analysis of images of perfect crystals, we measured these errors for two different transmission electron microscopes. Local magnification varies by as much as 5%, and rotation can reach 2° across a typical image. Our experimental results are compared with theory, and optical pincushion and spiral distortion coefficients are determined. A method for calibrating and removing these distortions is presented that enables quantification to 0.1% strain and 0.1° rotation across the whole field of view. This calibration is also critical for the accurate measurement of local lattice parameters from HRTEM images. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]