Prediction of RNA secondary structure by free energy minimization has been the standard for over two decades. Here we describe a novel method that forsakes this paradigm for predictions based on Boltzmann-weighted structure ensemble. We introduce the notion of a centroid structure as a representative for a set of structures and describe a procedure for its identification. In comparison with the...

Non-covalent molecular association underlies a diverse set of biologically and technologically relevant phenomena, including the action of drugs on their biomolecular targets and self- and supra-molecular assembly processes. Computer models employed to model binding frequently use interaction potentials with atomistic detail while neglecting the thermal molecular motions of the binding species....

Gafchromic XR type-R radiochromic film is a relatively new product designed for use at clinical diagnostic x-ray energies both qualitatively and quantitatively. This short note investigates the energy response characteristics of this high-sensitivity radiochromic film for both diagnostic and therapeutic x-ray energies. Results are also compared to conventional silver halide x-ray film for energ...

1. The most important challenge in diagnosis of celiac disease is not-performing the diagnostic tests in suspected persons. Because of multi-organ damage and multiple manifestations of disease, diagnosis of celiac disease may be delayed. It seems general physicians should be aware about uncommon presentations of disease and indications of celiac tests. 2. The second most important challenge is ...

Brucellosis is a globally significant zoonosis, the control of which is difficult and resource intensive. Serological tests form a vital part of a multifactorial approach to control and are often performed in large numbers. The aim of the present study was to develop a new assay to improve the efficiency, ease, and effectiveness of serological testing. An existing competitive enzyme-linked immu...

aim : the aim of this study is to evaluate the accuracy of preoperative abdominal ultrasonography in suspected appendicitis, and equivocal exam. background : acute appendicitis is a common problem and occasional challenging diagnosis in emergency department of every general hospital. patients and methods : within a period of one year from march 2007 through march 2008, all patient with suspecte...

conclusions: the potent effect of corticosteroids in the rapid improvement of respiratory compromise associated with thyroid lymphoma represents an important clinical finding. this opens the possibility for the favorable response to corticosteroid therapy to be regarded as a possible preliminary diagnostic tool for thyroid lymphoma in acute respiratory distress patients in the absence of trache...

background: sarcocystosis is one of the most widespread parasitic diseases in cattle caused by three main species of sarcocystis genus. the major aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of sarcocystis spp. in meat produced in yazd, central iran with special reference to species identification, using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (pcr-rflp).  method...

introduction: the role of ultrasonography in detection of pleural effusion has long been a subject of interest but controversial results have been reported. accordingly, this study aims to conduct a systematic review of the available literature on diagnostic value of ultrasonography and radiography in detection of pleural effusion through a meta-analytic approach. methods: an extended search wa...

introduction: hemothorax is one of the most prevalent injuries caused by thoracic traumas. early detection and treatment of this injury is of utmost importance in prognosis of the patient, but there are still controversial debates on the diagnostic value of imaging techniques in detection of hemothorax. therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic value of chest ultrasonography...