Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
ERPs and PET analysis of time perception: Spatial and temporal brain mapping during visual discrimination tasks

ERPs were recorded from 12 subjects performing duration and intensity visual discrimination tasks which have been previously used in a PET study. PET data showed that the same network was activated in both tasks [P. Maquet et al., NeuroImage 3:119–126, 1996 ]. Different ERP waveforms were observed for the late latency components depending on the dimension of the stimulus to be processed: frontal negativity (CNV) for the duration task and parieto‐occipital positivity (P300) for the intensity task. Using BESA software, the sources were first modelled with a “PET dipolar model” (right prefrontal, right parietal, anterior cingulate, left and right fusiforms). To obtain a better fit for ERPs recorded in each task, two sources (cuneus, left prefrontal area) had to be added. Consistently with PET findings, dipole modelling indicates that duration and intensity dimensions of a visual stimulus are processed in the same areas. However, ERPs also reveal prominent differences between the time course of the dipole activations for each task, particularly for sources contributing to the late latency ERP components. In the intensity task, dipoles located in the cuneus, the anterior cingulate, and the left prefrontal area yield largest activity within the P300 interval, then activity diminishes rapidly as the stimulus ends, whereas in the duration task, the cuneus and anterior cingulate are still active several hundred milliseconds following stimulus offset. Moreover, in the duration task, the activity of the right frontal dipole parallels the CNV waveform, whereas in the intensity task, this dipole is largely inactive. We assume that the right frontal area plays a specific role in the formation of temporal judgments. Hum. Brain Mapping 10:49–60, 2000. © 2000 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pain Communication in the Context of Osteoarthritis: Patient and Partner Self-efficacy for Pain Communication and Holding Back from Discussion of Pain and Arthritis-related Concerns

ObjectivesThis preliminary study examined aspects of pain communication (self-efficacy for pain communication and holding back from discussing pain and arthritis-related concerns) among patients with osteoarthritis (OA) and their partners, and associations between patient and partner pain communication and measures of patient and partner adjustment. MethodsA sample of 38 patients with OA and their partners completed measures of self-efficacy for pain communication and holding back from discussion of pain and arthritis-related concerns. Patients completed measures of pain, physical and psychologic disability, and pain catastrophizing, and partners completed measures of caregiver strain and positive and negative affect. ResultsCorrelation analyses indicated that, among patients, higher levels of self-efficacy for pain communication were associated with significantly lower levels of pain, physical and psychologic disability, and pain catastrophizing, and with lower levels of partner negative affect. Among partners, high self-efficacy for pain communication was associated with higher levels of positive affect. Among patients, higher levels of holding back were significantly correlated with higher levels of psychologic disability and catastrophizing. Higher levels of partner holding back were associated with significantly higher levels of caregiver strain, and with higher levels of patient psychologic disability and catastrophizing. DiscussionTaken together, results from this preliminary study suggest that self-efficacy for pain communication and holding back from discussions of pain and arthritis-related concerns may be important in understanding how patients with OA and their partners adjust to the demands of the patient's disease.
Toward assessing the effects of aerosols on deep convection: a numerical study using the WRF-Chemistry model

As the formative agents of cloud droplets and ice particles, aerosols play an undeniably important role in the development of clouds and precipitation. An increasing number of meteorological models (e.g. the Hebrew University Cloud Model, the Regional Atmospheric Modeling System) are being adapted to include treatment of cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) or aerosol in order to better quantify microphysical processes that are difficult to measure through direct observation. Through the work of researchers within the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) (Fast et al. 2006, Gustafson et al. 2007) and the Forecast Systems Laboratory (Grell et al. 2005), a chemistry module has been developed and linked with the Weather Research and Forecasting model (WRF-Chem). The WRFChem allows meteorological and chemical fields to evolve together, which makes investigation of feedbacks between aerosol chemistry, cloud physics, and dynamics tractable. This study makes use of the WRF-Chem to simulate two idealized cases of deep convection with simplified aerosol treatments.
Productivity and Its Growth of Japanese Agriculture in 1930 s A Panel Data Analysis Using Survey of Farm Household Economy

In early 1930s, the Showa Depression, which follows on the Great Depression in 1929, had large impact on urban and rural economies in Japan. Many studies analyzed Japanese agriculture by using production function. However, there exists a certain variance among them. Additionally, many studies were based on the assumption of constant returns to scale (CRS) due to data limitations. By utilizing detailed database, we re-examined agricultural production in this period. The result shows that the values of production elasticity of factors basically score the lowest level of the values previous studies had shown, that CRS is not supported, and that TFP growth is larger than that of previous studies.
Fitness of hybrids between rapeseed (Brassica napus) and wild Brassica rapa in natural habitats

Fitness of hybrids between genetically modified (GM) crops and wild relatives influences the likelihood of ecological harm. We measured fitness components in spontaneous (non‐GM) rapeseed × Brassica rapa hybrids in natural populations. The F1 hybrids yielded 46.9% seed output of B. rapa, were 16.9% as effective as males on B. rapa and exhibited increased self‐pollination. Assuming 100% GM rapeseed cultivation, we conservatively predict < 7000 second‐generation transgenic hybrids annually in the United Kingdom (i.e. ∼20% of F1 hybrids). Conversely, whilst reduced hybrid fitness improves feasibility of bio‐containment, stage projection matrices suggests broad scope for some transgenes to offset this effect by enhancing fitness.
Dynamic incremental CT: effect of volume and concentration of contrast material and patient weight on hepatic enhancement.

PURPOSE To develop an individualized approach to the intravenous administration of contrast material for hepatic computed tomography (CT). MATERIALS AND METHODS Two hundred patients were randomized into eight protocols. Each group received different volumes and concentrations of contrast material. For each protocol, maximum hepatic enhancement (MHE) was calculated, with an adjustment for iodine dose and patient weight. The contrast enhancement index (CEI) and optimum scanning interval were calculated for hepatic enhancement thresholds of 10-60 HU. RESULTS The MHE calculated as a function of patient weight was 96 HU +/- 19 per gram of iodine per kilogram of body weight. CEIs obtained with a contrast material concentration of 240 mg of iodine per milliliter were inferior to those obtained with a concentration of 320 or 350 mg I/mL. At low enhancement thresholds, the volume of contrast material had a more important effect than the concentration on CEI and optimum scanning interval; at high thresholds, concentration had a more important effect. CONCLUSION For a patient of known weight, one can calculate the iodine dose needed to provide a desired level of hepatic enhancement. Use of a contrast material with a concentration of 240 mg L/mL is not recommended for dynamic incremental hepatic CT, except in small patients (eg, those weighing less than 73 kg).
A Phosphofructokinase B-Type Carbohydrate Kinase Family Protein, NARA5, for Massive Expressions of Plastid-Encoded Photosynthetic Genes in Arabidopsis1[W][OA]

To date, there have been no reports on screening for mutants defective in the massive accumulation of Rubisco in higher plants. Here, we describe a screening method based on the toxic accumulation of ammonia in the presence of methionine sulfoximine, a specific inhibitor of glutamine synthetase, during photorespiration initiated by the oxygenase reaction of Rubisco in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). Five recessive mutants with decreased amounts of Rubisco were identified and designated as nara mutants, as they contained a mutation in genes necessary for the achievement of Rubisco accumulation. The nara5-1 mutant showed markedly lower levels of plastid-encoded photosynthetic proteins, including Rubisco. Map-based cloning revealed that NARA5 encoded a chloroplast phosphofructokinase B-type carbohydrate kinase family protein of unknown function. The NARA5 protein fused to green fluorescent protein localized in chloroplasts. We conducted expression analyses of photosynthetic genes during light-induced greening of etiolated seedlings of nara5-1 and the T-DNA insertion mutant, nara5-2. Our results strongly suggest that NARA5 is indispensable for hyperexpression of photosynthetic genes encoded in the plastid genome, particularly rbcL.
Analysis of Molecular Structures , Spectroscopic Properties ( FTIR , Micro-Raman and UV-vis . ) and Quantum Chemical Calculations of Free and Ligand Dimethyl Phenylphosphonite in Cd ( II ) Halide Complex

In this study the molecular geometries, experimental vibrational and electronic absorption spectra and quantum chemical calculations of free dimethyl phenylphosphonite, (C8H11PO2), (with synonym, dimethoxyphenylphosphine or phenyldimethoxyphosphine) (Abbreviated as DMPP) and its [Cd(DMPP)]. Cl2.H2O metal halide complex have been investigated by using elemental analysis, FT-IR, micro-Raman and UV-vis spectroscopies. The conformational analysis of free DMPP, the structures, vibrational wavenumbers and HOMO-LUMO and MEP analyses of the mentioned compounds have been computed by using DFT/B3LYP calculation method with 6-311++G(d,p) basis set for free DMMP molecule and DFT/B3LYP and DFT/M06-L methods with LanL2DZ basis set for [Cd(DMPP)]. Cl2.H2O metal halide complex, in the ground state. The comparison of the observed fundamental vibrational frequencies with calculated results indicates that DFT/M06-L method is superior to the scaled DFT/B3LYP approach for the vibrational modes related to the metal atom of [Cd(DMPP)]. Cl2.H2O metal halide complex.
Regulation and Intracellular Trafficking Pathways of the Endothelin Receptors*

The effects of endothelin (ET) are mediated via the G protein-coupled receptors ETA and ETB. However, the mechanisms of ET receptor desensitization, internalization, and intracellular trafficking are poorly understood. The aim of the present study was to investigate the molecular mechanisms of ET receptor regulation and to characterize the intracellular pathways of ET-stimulated ETA and ETB receptors. By analysis of ETA and ETB receptor internalization in transfected Chinese hamster ovary cells in the presence of overexpressed βARK, β-arrestin-1, β-arrestin-2, or dynamin as well as dominant negative mutants of these regulators, we have demonstrated that both ET receptor subtypes follow an arrestin- and dynamin/clathrin-dependent mechanism of internalization. Fluorescence microscopy of Chinese hamster ovary and COS cells expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP)-tagged ET receptors revealed that the ETA and ETB subtypes were targeted to different intracellular routes after ET stimulation. While ETA-GFP followed a recycling pathway and colocalized with transferrin in the pericentriolar recycling compartment, ETB-GFP was targeted to lysosomes after ET-induced internalization. Both receptor subtypes colocalized with Rab5 in classical early endosomes, indicating that this compartment is a common early intermediate for the two ET receptors during intracellular transport. The distinct intracellular routes of ET-stimulated ETA and ETB receptors may explain the persistent signal response through the ETAreceptor and the transient response through the ETBreceptor. Furthermore, lysosomal targeting of the ETBreceptor could serve as a biochemical mechanism for clearance of plasma endothelin via this subtype.
Aneuploidy Causes Tissue-Specific Qualitative Changes in Global Gene Expression Patterns in Maize1[W][OA]

Segmental aneuploidy refers to the relative excess or deficiency of specific chromosome regions. This condition results in gene dosage imbalance and often causes severe phenotypic alterations in plants and animals. The mechanisms by which gene dosage imbalance affects gene expression and phenotype are not completely clear. The effects of aneuploidy on the transcriptome may depend on the types of cells analyzed and on the developmental stage. We performed global gene expression profiling to determine the effects of segmental aneuploidy on gene expression levels in two different maize (Zea mays) tissues and a detailed analysis of expression of 30 genes affected by aneuploidy in multiple maize tissues. Different maize tissues varied in the frequency at which genes located outside of the aneuploid regions are positively or negatively regulated as well as in the degree of gene dosage compensation. Multiple genes demonstrated qualitative changes in gene expression due to aneuploidy, when the gene became ectopically expressed or completely silenced in aneuploids relative to wild-type plants. Our data strongly suggested that quantitative changes in gene expression at developmental transition points caused by variation in gene copy number progressed through tissue development and resulted in stable qualitative changes in gene expression patterns. Thus, aneuploidy in maize results in alterations of gene expression patterns that differ between tissues and developmental stages of maize seedlings.
GaN-on-Si Power Technology: Devices and Applications

In this paper, we present a comprehensive reviewand discussion of the state-of-the-art device technology and application development of GaN-on-Si power electronics. Several device technologies for realizing normally off operation that is highly desirable for power switching applications are presented. In addition, the examples of circuit applications that can greatly benefit from the superior performance of GaN power devices are demonstrated. Comparisonwith other competingpower device technology, such as Si superjunction-MOSFET and SiC MOSFET, is also presented and analyzed. Critical issues for commercialization of GaN-on-Si power devices are discussed with regard to cost, reliability, and ease of use.
Effect of Pinealectomy, Eye Enucleation, and Melatonin Treatment on Ovarian Activity and Vitellogenin Levels in the Catfish Exposed to Short Photoperiod or Long Photoperiod

To investigate the relative importance of pineal, and eyes, and melatonin treatment on ovarian activity, catfish, Heteropneustes fossilis subjected to pinealectomy, eye nucleation, or both were exposed to short (LD 9:15) or long (LD 14:10) photoperiod during the different stages of the annual reproductive cycle. During the preparatory period, pinealectomy accelerated ovarian recrudescence under long photoperiod, but no effects of pinealectomy were observed under short photoperiod. Pineal has no influence on ovarian activity during the preplanning and spawning periods of the reproductive cycle. In the late postspawning period, ovarian recrudescence is accelerated after pinealectomy in catfish maintained under short photoperiod (LD 9:15 at 25°C). But under long photoperiod (LD 14:10 at 25°C), pinealectomy delayed ovarian recrudescence. An investigation into the role of the eyes revealed that eye enucleation nullifies the inhibitory effects of LD 9:15 and represses the stimulatory effects of LD 14:10. Combined surgery inhibited ovarian development under both the regimes. It is significant that pinealectomy and/or blinding neither counteracted nor delayed the post spawning ovarian regression. The findings suggest that the role of the pineal in catfish reproduction is variable and depends upon the photoperiod to which they are exposed as well as on the time of the year and the stage of the reproductive cycle. It is concluded that extra retinal and extra pineal photoreceptors also are involved in influencing seasonal reproduction. Further, no effects of melanoma treatment on ovarian activity or on vitellogenin levels during the preparatory or preplanning periods were observed, indicating that the pineal effects on gondola activity in catfish may not be mediated through the secretion of melatonin.
EFFECT OF ORGANOPHOSPHOROUS COMPOUNDS POISONING ON THE METABOLISM OF LIVER.

Aim of the study: To assess the metabolism of liver & lipid peroxidation status in the patients with organophosphorus compounds poisoning. Materials & Methods: 50 patients of both sex, age group 25 -50 years who got admitted for organophosphorous compounds poisoning in Government General Hospital Chennai-3 were chosen for the study. Age and sex matched 50 healthy volunteers were treated as controls. Blood samples were collected from patients and serum cholinesterase was measured to detect the presence of organophosphorous compounds. If detected, blood samples were collected and performed liver function tests like bilirubin, transaminases (ALT, AST), Alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and proteins were performed. Total Cholesterol (TC), Triglycerides (TG), and Lipoproteins (HDL, LDL, VLDL) were also measured. Antioxidant status was assessed by measuring Malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and reduced glutathione (GSH). The same tests were carried out for the controls also. Results and discussion: The bilirubin, ALT, AST, ALP, levels were elevated in these patients compared to controls. There was an alteration in the lipid levels and antioxidants. No changes were observed in the protein levels. MDA levels were increased whereas SOD and GSH levels were decreased. These results may be due to the damage of the
Prenatal diagnosis and intrafamilial clinical heterogeneity of Fraser syndrome

Fraser syndrome (MIM 219000) is a rare disorder of autosomal recessive inheritance, characterized by the association of cryptophthalmos, syndactyly and genital abnormalities. Here we report on two cases of Fraser syndrome (cryptophthalmos syndrome) in a non‐consanguineous couple, with variable expression in echographic, clinical and autopsy findings. Furthermore, we highlight the difficulties in prenatal diagnosis of Fraser syndrome. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
p42/p44 MAP Kinase Module Plays a Key Role in the Transcriptional Regulation of the Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Gene in Fibroblasts*

Vascular EndothelialGrowth Factor (VEGF) is a potent mitogen for vascular endothelial cells that has been implicated in tumor neovascularization. We show that, in hamster fibroblasts (CCL39 cells), VEGF mRNAs are expressed at low levels in serum-deprived or exponentially growing cells, whereas it is rapidly induced after stimulation of quiescent cells with serum. CCL39 derivatives, transformed with Polyoma virus or with active members of the p42/p44 mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase pathway, Gly/Val point mutant of Ras at position 12 (Ras-Val12), MKK1 in which Ser218 and Ser222 were mutated to Asp (MKK1-SS/DD)), express very high levels of VEGF mRNA. To analyze the contribution of the p42/p44MAP kinase in this induction, we used the CCL39-derived cell line (Raf-1:ER) expressing an estradiol-activable Raf-1. We show a time and an estradiol dose-dependent up-regulation of VEGF mRNA clearly detectable after 2 h of stimulation. The induction of VEGF mRNA in response to conditioned activation of Raf-1 is reverted by an inhibitor of MKK1, PD 098059, highlighting a specific role for the p42/p44 MAP kinase pathway in VEGF expression. Interestingly, hypoxia has an additive effect on VEGF induction in CCL39 cells stimulated by serum or in Raf-1:ER cells stimulated by estradiol. In contrast to VEGF, the isoforms VEGF-B and VEGF-C are poorly regulated by growth and oncogenic factors. We have identified a GC-rich region of the VEGF promoter between −88 and −66 base pairs which contains all the elements responsible of its up-regulation by constitutive active Ras or MKK1-SS/DD. By mutation of the putative binding sites and electrophoretic mobility supershift experiments, we showed that the GC-rich region constitutively binds Sp1 and AP-2 transcription factors. Furthermore, following activation of the p42/p44 MAP kinase module, the binding of Sp1 and AP-2 is increased in the complexes formed in this region of the promoter. Altogether, these data suggest that hypoxia and p42/p44 MAP kinase independently play a key role in the regulation of the VEGF expression.
Applying generalizability theory to estimate habitual activity levels.

PURPOSE Relative and absolute decisions in physical activity research are commonly based on a single assessment period that may not represent habitual activity behavior. This study used the generalizability theory to 1) quantify multiple sources of measurement error and 2) estimate the number of days and seasons needed to characterize long-term levels of activity. METHODS Between 2005 and 2006, youth participating in an intervention program were asked to wear a pedometer across seven consecutive days during three separate months (September, January, and May). Total variance in activity was partitioned and quantified according to differences among participants, inconsistency across days, relative differences among seasons, and the interactions among variables. Two coefficients (generalizability and phi) were calculated from multiple decision studies using a random and mixed design to determine the study protocol needed to achieve a reliability of 0.80 for relative and absolute decisions, respectively. Data were analyzed in 2009. RESULTS Complete data were available for 42 boys and 38 girls. Residual variance accounted for the largest source of measurement error (55.64%), whereas smaller amounts were attributed to the participant (18.74%), season (6.59%), and day (2.67%) terms. Using a random design, both coefficients failed to reach an acceptable level of reliability using a single season. In contrast, using a mixed design, an acceptable level of reliability could be reached using 7-8 d from a single, fixed season. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates the potential for using the generalizability theory to make decisions regarding the rank order of activity among individuals (relative decision) and compliance rates for physical activity recommendations (absolute decision).