Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Reconstitution of Cholesterol-Dependent Vaginolysin into Tethered Phospholipid Bilayers: Implications for Bioanalysis

Functional reconstitution of the cholesterol-dependent cytolysin vaginolysin (VLY) from Gardnerella vaginalis into artificial tethered bilayer membranes (tBLMs) has been accomplished. The reconstitution of VLY was followed in real-time by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Changes of the EIS parameters of the tBLMs upon exposure to VLY solutions were consistent with the formation of water-filled pores in the membranes. It was found that reconstitution of VLY is a strictly cholesterol-dependent, irreversible process. At a constant cholesterol concentration reconstitution of VLY occurred in a concentration-dependent manner, thus allowing the monitoring of VLY concentration and activity in vitro and opening possibilities for tBLM utilization in bioanalysis. EIS methodology allowed us to detect VLY down to 0.5 nM (28 ng/mL) concentration. Inactivation of VLY by certain amino acid substitutions led to noticeably lesser tBLM damage. Pre-incubation of VLY with the neutralizing monoclonal antibody 9B4 inactivated the VLY membrane damage in a concentration-dependent manner, while the non-neutralizing antibody 21A5 exhibited no effect. These findings demonstrate the biological relevance of the interaction between VLY and the tBLM. The membrane-damaging interaction between VLY and tBLM was observed in the absence of the human CD59 receptor, known to strongly facilitate the hemolytic activity of VLY. Taken together, our study demonstrates the applicability of tBLMs as a bioanalytical platform for the detection of the activity of VLY and possibly other cholesterol-dependent cytolysins.
Single trial analyses of encephalogram data.

In this thesis, inspired by the development of the Brain-computer-interface (BCI) technology, we present novel methods for the analysis of macroscopically recorded brain signals. Here the focus is put on improved feature extraction methods, the detection of mental states and the analysis of variability of brain responses. Conditional event-related (de-)synchronization The fluctuation of signal power in a narrow band induced by an event is conventionally termed event-related (de-)synchronization and is quantified as the relative deviation from the mean baseline activity. We extend the ERD terminology with respect to a generalized reference. To this end, we oppose the time course of the event-related activity against those obtained from single trials without specific stimulus processing. From this generalized approach we derive a method to determine the dependencies of the ERD response on initial cortical states. A comparative study of surrogate and real ERD data validates this approach. Spatio–spectral filters The common-spatial-pattern algorithm (CSP) determines optimally discriminative spatial filters from multivariate broad-band signals. We extend the conventional algorithm such that it additionally obtains simple frequency filters. This enables adaptation to the individual characteristics of the power spectrum and thus improves feature extraction. An empirical comparison with the conventional CSP method reveals the advantages of our approach in the context of the classification of imaginary unilateral hand movements. Extraction of event-related potentials (ERP) Independent component analysis (ICA) is a tool for statistical data analysis that is able to linearly decompose multivariate signals into their underlying source components. We present an ICA method that uses prior knowledge about the phase-locked property of ERPs for their improved extraction from single trial EEG. The application on artificially generated and real world data validates this approach in terms of an improved signal-to-noise ratio of the extracted ERPs. Adaptive feature combination across time Lateralized μ-rhythm ERD and lateralized movement-related potentials are the most commonly used discriminative features for the classification of imaginary hand movements. In the context of real time classification we present a method that efficiently combines these temporally differently accentuated features. To this end, we first train weak classifiers for each time instance and each feature separately. Subsequently we combine these weak classifiers in a strictly causal, probabilistic manner. The effectiveness of this approach was proven by its successful application to data from the international BCI competitions in 2003 and 2005.
Elastic response of rough surfaces in partial contact

We model numerically the partial normal contact of two elastic rough surfaces with highly correlated asperities. Facing surfaces are unmated and described as self-affine with a Hurst exponent H. The numerical algorithm is based on Fourier acceleration and allows for numerous and large system computations. We find that for H = 0.6 and H = 0.8, the force F scales as A1.1, where A is the contact area. This is in contrast to the law F ~ A(1 + H)/2, predicting an exponent of 0.8 and 0.9, respectively, which was suggested by Roux et al. (Europhys. Lett., 23 (1993) 277). We propose an explanation for this discrepancy.
Genomic Inverse PCR for Exploration of Ligated Breakpoints (GIPFEL), a New Method to Detect Translocations in Leukemia

Here we present a novel method “Genomic inverse PCR for exploration of ligated breakpoints” (GIPFEL) that allows the sensitive detection of recurrent chromosomal translocations. This technique utilizes limited amounts of DNA as starting material and relies on PCR based quantification of unique DNA sequences that are created by circular ligation of restricted genomic DNA from translocation bearing cells. Because the complete potential breakpoint region is interrogated, a prior knowledge of the individual, specific interchromosomal fusion site is not required. We validated GIPFEL for the five most common gene fusions associated with childhood leukemia (MLL-AF4, MLL-AF9, MLL-ENL, ETV6-RUNX1, and TCF3-PBX1). A workflow of restriction digest, purification, ligation, removal of linear fragments and precipitation enriching for circular DNA was developed. GIPFEL allowed detection of translocation specific signature sequences down to a 10−4 dilution which is close to the theoretical limit. In a blinded proof-of-principle study utilizing DNA from cell lines and 144 children with B-precursor-ALL associated translocations this method was 100% specific with no false positive results. Sensitivity was 83%, 65%, and 24% for t(4;11), t(9;11) and t(11;19) respectively. Translocation t(12;21) was correctly detected in 64% and t(1;19) in 39% of the cases. In contrast to other methods, the characteristics of GIPFEL make it particularly attractive for prospective studies.
Spatial Pattern of Verticillium dahliae Microsclerotia and Cotton Plants with Wilt Symptoms in Commercial Plantations

Spatial patterns of pathogen inoculum in field soils and the resulting patterns of disease may reflect the underlying mechanisms of pathogen dispersal. This knowledge can be used to design more efficient sampling schemes for assessing diseases. Spatial patterns of Verticillium dahliae microsclerotia were characterized in commercial cotton fields through quadrat and point sampling in 1994 and 2013, respectively. Furthermore, cotton plants with wilt symptoms, caused by V. dahliae, were assessed in six commercial cotton fields in 2013. Soil samples were assayed for the density of microsclerotia (expressed as CFU g-1 of soil) using a wet-sieving plating method and a real-time quantitative PCR method for the 1994 and 2013 study, respectively. The estimated inoculum threshold for causing wilt development on individual plants varied with the three fields: ca. 1.6 CFU g-1 of soil for one field, and 7.2 CFU g-1 of soil for the other two. Both quadrat and point sampling spatial analyses showed that aggregation of V. dahliae inoculum in soils was usually not detected beyond 1.0 m. Similarly, the spatial patterns of wilted cotton plants indicated that spatial aggregation of diseased plants were only observed below the scale of 1.0 m in six commercial cotton plantations. Therefore, spatial aggregation of both V. dahliae inoculum and cotton plants with wilt symptoms is not likely to be detected above the scale of 1.0 m for most commercial cotton plantations. When designing schemes for assessing wilt inoculum and wilt development, this scale needs to be taken into consideration.
Health, safety & welfare: excuses used to argue, fuss & to get away with doing little or nothing?

AbstractThe film The Good, The Bad and The Ugly referred to different kinds of people in this world. Eli Wallach, who played the role of Tuco Ramirez, said “in this world, there are two kinds of people”. Tuco used this analogy for a number of scenarios throughout the film and gave examples that depicted roles within his circle of colleagues. Tuco himself played the role of a bandit and was the “Ugly” within the title. Within Health, Safety and Welfare, there are many ugly sides. Anecdotal evidence suggests that some people, whether by nature, nurture or life experience can and do use illegitimate excuses related to health, safety and welfare to deliberately reduce production. This research was the result of a small scale study completed on 12 highly-trained crews carrying out work associated with electricity overhead networks. The study showed that variables such as deviations from compliance with Job Site Safety Plans (JSSPs) and production in terms of work completed in a given time are straightforward to measure. A deviation is regarded as not complying with the JSSP. The JSSP involves 3 checklists that include a site specific risk assessment, plant and equipment, and a permit to dig. Part of the study involved interviewing each crew whilst health, safety and welfare audits were being carried out.Within the study, it was found that there was a wide range of reasons for deviations. The reasons can be categorised into three groups with 1) Perceived Legitimate Reasons; 2) Perceived Ambiguous Reasons; and 3) Perceived Illegitimate Reasons. The study also shows that there was a correlation between deviations and production, with the crew having the greater number of deviations achieving up to 25.1% higher production than the average production rates. The study also showed that the crews which gave the highest level of both Ambiguous Reasons and Illegitimate Reasons had the lowest overall production rates.
The Neural Dynamics of Fear Memory

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The Palomar Distant Cluster Survey. II. The Cluster Profiles

We present a study of the surface density profiles of the clusters of galaxies from the Palomar Distant Cluster Survey (Postman et al. 1996). The survey contains a total of 79 clusters of galaxies, covering the estimated redshift range of $0.2 \simless z \simless 1.2$. We have analyzed the richest clusters in this sample and find that the typical Palomar cluster has a surface density profile of $r^{-1.4}$ ($r \ge 0.10~h^{-1}~{\rm Mpc}$) and a core radius of $0.05~h^{-1}~{\rm Mpc}$. There may be an indication that the slope of the surface density profile steepens with increasing redshift, though the observational uncertainty is at present too large to be conclusive. Our cluster population is inconsistent at a 99.9\% confidence level with a population of azimuthally symmetric clusters.
Management of mid-line discrepencies: A review

Midline deviations are a common and persistent problem that all orthodontists must face. Skeletal tissue, soft tissue, and dent-alveolar asymmetries may be present alone or in combination in a patient with no coincident midlines. A proper understanding of the etiology and the contribution of the components in midline discrepancy is very essential in proper diagnosis and treatment planning. This article discusses the different treatment strategies in the diagnosis and correction of midline asymmetries.
Cost of work-related injuries in insured workplaces in Lebanon.

OBJECTIVE To estimate the medical and compensation costs of work-related injuries in insured workplaces in Lebanon and to examine cost distributions by worker and injury characteristics. METHODS A total of 3748 claims for work injuries processed in 1998 by five major insurance companies in Lebanon were reviewed. Medical costs (related to emergency room fees, physician consultations, tests, and medications) and wage and indemnity compensation costs were identified from the claims. FINDINGS The median cost per injury was US dollars 83 (mean, US dollars 198; range, US dollars 0-16,401). The overall cost for all 3748 injuries was US dollars 742,100 (76% of this was medical costs). Extrapolated to all injuries within insured workplaces, the overall cost was US dollars 4.5 million a year; this increased to US dollars 10 million-13 million when human value cost (pain and suffering) was accounted for. Fatal injuries (three, 0.1%) and those that caused permanent disabilities (nine, 0.2%) accounted for 10.4% of the overall costs and hospitalized injuries (245, 6.5%) for 45%. Cost per injury was highest among older workers and for injuries that involved falls and vehicle incidents. Medical, but not compensation, costs were higher among female workers. CONCLUSION The computed costs of work injuries--a fraction of the real burden of occupational injuries in Lebanon--represent a considerable economic loss. This calls for a national policy to prevent work injuries, with a focus on preventing the most serious injuries. Options for intervention and research are discussed.
Effect of Morinda citrifolia (Noni)-Enriched Diet on Hepatic Heat Shock Protein and Lipid Metabolism-Related Genes in Heat Stressed Broiler Chickens

Heat stress (HS) has been reported to alter fat deposition in broilers, however the underlying molecular mechanisms are not well-defined. The objectives of the current study were, therefore: (1) to determine the effects of acute (2 h) and chronic (3 weeks) HS on the expression of key molecular signatures involved in hepatic lipogenic and lipolytic programs, and (2) to assess if diet supplementation with dried Noni medicinal plant (0.2% of the diet) modulates these effects. Broilers (480 males, 1 d) were randomly assigned to 12 environmental chambers, subjected to two environmental conditions (heat stress, HS, 35°C vs. thermoneutral condition, TN, 24°C) and fed two diets (control vs. Noni) in a 2 × 2 factorial design. Feed intake and body weights were recorded, and blood and liver samples were collected at 2 h and 3 weeks post-heat exposure. HS depressed feed intake, reduced body weight, and up regulated the hepatic expression of heat shock protein HSP60, HSP70, HSP90 as well as key lipogenic proteins (fatty acid synthase, FASN; acetyl co-A carboxylase alpha, ACCα and ATP citrate lyase, ACLY). HS down regulated the hepatic expression of lipoprotein lipase (LPL) and hepatic triacylglycerol lipase (LIPC), but up-regulated ATGL. Although it did not affect growth performance, Noni supplementation regulated the hepatic expression of lipogenic proteins in a time- and gene-specific manner. Prior to HS, Noni increased ACLY and FASN in the acute and chronic experimental conditions, respectively. During acute HS, Noni increased ACCα, but reduced FASN and ACLY expression. Under chronic HS, Noni up regulated ACCα and FASN but it down regulated ACLY. In vitro studies, using chicken hepatocyte cell lines, showed that HS down-regulated the expression of ACCα, FASN, and ACLY. Treatment with quercetin, one bioactive ingredient in Noni, up-regulated the expression of ACCα, FASN, and ACLY under TN conditions, but it appeared to down-regulate ACCα and increase ACLY levels under HS exposure. In conclusion, our findings indicate that HS induces hepatic lipogenesis in chickens and this effect is probably mediated via HSPs. The modulation of hepatic HSP expression suggest also that Noni might be involved in modulating the stress response in chicken liver.
Goals and Values of Hop Farmers

Traditional agricultural location theory has not been very successful in explaining land-use patterns and recent behavioural approaches have stressed the satisficing characteristics of economic behaviour. An important aspect of the satisficer concept are the goals and values of farmers, which are examined in a survey of hop growers in the West Midlands. Whilst the ranking of values is similar to Gasson's original study, her noted differences between the operators of large and small farms could not be substantiated. Values were found not to vary according to a range of farm and farmer characteristics. The final classification of hop farmers highlighted important interrelationships and demonstrated the complexity which surrounds studies of farmers' attitudes and motivations.
Observation of Brownian Motion in Liquids at Short Times: Instantaneous Velocity and Memory Loss

Beyond Brownian Motion On long time scales, the random Brownian motion of particles diffusing in a liquid is well described by theories developed by Einstein and others, but the instantaneous or short time scale behavior has been much harder to observe or analyze. Kheifets et al. (p. 1493) combined ultrasensitive position detection with sufficient data collection to probe the Brownian motion of microbeads in fluids on time scales that are shorter than the characteristic bead-fluid interaction time. The motions of Brownian particles are tracked and evaluated on short time scales where solvent effects play a role. Measurement of the instantaneous velocity of Brownian motion of suspended particles in liquid probes the microscopic foundations of statistical mechanics in soft condensed matter. However, instantaneous velocity has eluded experimental observation for more than a century since Einstein’s prediction of the small length and time scales involved. We report shot-noise–limited, high-bandwidth measurements of Brownian motion of micrometer-sized beads suspended in water and acetone by an optical tweezer. We observe the hydrodynamic instantaneous velocity of Brownian motion in a liquid, which follows a modified energy equipartition theorem that accounts for the kinetic energy of the fluid displaced by the moving bead. We also observe an anticorrelated thermal force, which is conventionally assumed to be uncorrelated.
Implementation of LSB Steganography and its Evaluation for Various File Formats

----------------------------------------------------------------------ABSTRACT-------------------------------------------------------------- Steganography is derived from the Greek word steganos which literally means “Covered” and graphy means “Writing”, i.e. covered writing. Steganography refers to the science of “invisible” communication. For hiding secret information in various file formats, there exists a large variety of steganographic techniques some are more complex than others and all of them have respective strong and weak points. The Least Significant Bit (LSB) embedding technique suggests that data can be hidden in the least significant bits of the cover image and the human eye would be unable to notice the hidden image in the cover file. This technique can be used for hiding images in 24-Bit, 8-Bit, Gray scale format. This paper explains the LSB Embedding technique and Presents the evaluation for various file formats.
Monoubiquitylation of α-Synuclein by Seven in Absentia Homolog (SIAH) Promotes Its Aggregation in Dopaminergic Cells*

α-Synuclein plays a major role in Parkinson disease. Unraveling the mechanisms of α-synuclein aggregation is essential to understand the formation of Lewy bodies and their involvement in dopaminergic cell death. α-Synuclein is ubiquitylated in Lewy bodies, but the role of α-synuclein ubiquitylation has been mysterious. We now report that the ubiquitin-protein isopeptide ligase seven in absentia homolog (SIAH) directly interacts with and monoubiquitylates α-synuclein and promotes its aggregation in vitro and in vivo, which is toxic to cells. Mass spectrometry analysis demonstrates that SIAH monoubiquitylates α-synuclein at lysines 12, 21, and 23, which were previously shown to be ubiquitylated in Lewy bodies. SIAH ubiquitylates lysines 10, 34, 43, and 96 as well. Suppression of SIAH expression by short hairpin RNA to SIAH-1 and SIAH-2 abolished α-synuclein monoubiquitylation in dopaminergic cells, indicating that endogenous SIAH ubiquitylates α-synuclein. Moreover, SIAH co-immunoprecipitated with α-synuclein from brain extracts. Inhibition of proteasomal, lysosomal, and autophagic pathways, as well as overexpression of a ubiquitin mutant less prone to deubiquitylation, G76A, increased monoubiquitylation of α-synuclein by SIAH. Monoubiquitylation increased the aggregation of α-synuclein in vitro. At the electron microscopy level, monoubiquitylated α-synuclein promoted the formation of massive amounts of amorphous aggregates. Monoubiquitylation also increased α-synuclein aggregation in vivo as observed by increased formation of α-synuclein inclusion bodies within dopaminergic cells. These inclusions are toxic to cells, and their formation was prevented when endogenous SIAH expression was suppressed. Our data suggest that monoubiquitylation represents a possible trigger event for α-synuclein aggregation and Lewy body formation.
Assessment of the Psychometric Properties of an Opinion Leadership Scale

Continued interest in diffusion theory and product innovation research necessitates the sound measurement of such constructs as opinion leadership. The author assesses the psychometric properties of the King and Summers self-designating scale of opinion leadership and proposes a modified scale of opinion leadership. The revised scale is found to have higher internal consistency reliability and better nomological and known-groups validity.
BAC transgenic analysis reveals enhancers sufficient for Hoxa13 and neighborhood gene expression in mouse embryonic distal limbs and genital bud

SUMMARY We previously demonstrated that a ∼1 Mb domain of genes upstream of and including Hoxa13 is co‐expressed in the developing mouse limbs and genitalia. A highly conserved non‐coding sequence, mmA13CNS, was shown to be insufficient in transgenic mice to direct precise Hoxa13‐like expression in the limb buds or genital bud, although some LacZ expression from the transgene was reproducibly found in these tissues. In this report, we used β‐globin minimal promoter LacZ recombinant BAC transgenes encompassing mmA13CNS to identify a single critical region involved in mouse Hoxa13‐like embryonic genital bud expression. By analyzing the expression patterns of these overlapping BAC clones in transgenic mice, we show that at least two sequences remote to the HoxA cluster are required collectively to drive Hoxa13‐like expression in developing distal limbs. Given that the paralogous posterior HoxD and neighboring genes have been shown to be under the influence of long‐range distal limb and genital bud enhancers, we hypothesize that both long‐range enhancers have one ancestral origin, which diverged in both sequence and function after the HoxA/D cluster duplication.