Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
REREa/Atrophin‐2 interacts with histone deacetylase and Fgf8 signaling to regulate multiple processes of zebrafish development

The transcriptional regulator RERE/Atrophin‐2 (RERE) is required for the normal patterning of the early vertebrate embryo, including the central nervous system, pharyngeal arches, and limbs. Consistent with a role as a transcriptional corepressor, RERE binds histone deacetylase 1 and 2 (HDAC1/2), and orphan nuclear receptors such as Tlx. Here, we identify the zebrafish babyface (bab) as a mutant in rerea and show that it interacts genetically with fibroblast growth factor 8 (fgf8). We suggest that this finding is largely due to its interactions with HDAC, because genetic or pharmacological disruptions of HDAC phenocopy many features of the bab mutant. Furthermore, removing the functions of either REREa or HDAC synergizes with loss of Fgf8 function to disrupt posterior mesoderm formation during somitogenesis, midbrain–hindbrain boundary maintenance, and pharyngeal cartilage development. Together, these results reveal novel in vivo roles for REREa in HDAC‐mediated regulation of Fgf signaling. We present a model for RERE‐dependent patterning in which tissue‐specific transcriptional repression, by means of an REREa‐HDAC complex, modulates growth factor signaling during embryogenesis. Developmental Dynamics 236:1891–1904, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Digital Innovation and the Division of Innovative Labor: Digital Controls in the Automotive Industry

In this study of the U.S. automobile industry, we highlight the way the division of innovative labor across firms in the supply chain can be influenced by a particular form of digital innovation known as “digital control systems. ” Digital control systems are becoming ubiquitous in complex products, and these digital innovations integrate other components across a product structure and introduce a level of indeterminacy and unpredictability in the organization of the interfirm division of innovative labor. Much of organizational scholarship holds that accompanying a shift toward increasingly modular product structures, component suppliers are engaging in relatively more design and invention around the components that they supply. We find that the evolution of digital controls may reverse this pattern, because in the wake of a major shift in the digital controls technology, suppliers actually engage in relatively less component innovation in comparison with their large manufacturing customers. To explain this shift, we characterize complex product structures in terms of two distinct product hierarchies: the inclusionary and the digital control hierarchy. In using this distinction to analyze the evolution of automotive emission control systems from 1970 to 1998, we reconcile two competing views about the interfirm division of innovative labor.
Students With Chronic Conditions: Experiences and Challenges of Regular Education Teachers

School nurses have observed the increasing prevalence of children with chronic conditions in the school setting; however, little is known about teacher experiences with these children in their regular classrooms. The purpose of this mixed-method study was to describe the experiences and challenges of regular education teachers when they have students with chronic conditions in their classroom and implications for the school nurse. The national sample consisted of regular education teachers. The methodologies consisted of focus groups and an online survey. Seven themes emerged: Teachers want to be informed about their students with chronic conditions, teachers lack information about the conditions, there is a lack of preparation in preteacher education programs about students with chronic conditions, teachers feel frustration and stress in working effectively with these students, teachers shared concerns about their students, teachers are asked to perform health-related tasks for students, and teachers made recommendations of what they need from the school nurse.
Proteomic profiling of human neutrophils in relation to immunoglobulin G Fc receptor IIIb polymorphism.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Neutrophils are essential in host defense against periodontopathic bacteria. Immunoglobulin G Fc receptor IIIb (FcγRIIIb) is a neutrophil-specific receptor for immunoglobulin G and bears the functional NA1-NA2 polymorphism. Accumulating evidence suggests a significant association between FcγRIIIb gene polymorphism and periodontitis. In this study, we employed a proteomic approach to evaluate the relevance of FcγRIIIb polymorphism to protein expression profiles of neutrophils. MATERIAL AND METHODS Neutrophils were collected from ten healthy subjects whose FcγRIIIb genotypes were determined by allele-specific PCRs. Expressions of proteins induced by interaction via FcγRIIIb were examined between the FcγRIIIb genotypes with two-dimensional sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Proteins that were significantly different in expression levels between the FcγRIIIb genotypes were determined with computer image analysis, and identified with mass spectrometry and protein databases. RESULTS A total of 757 protein spots were observed in the two-dimensional electrophoretograms of neutrophils from five FcγRIIIb-NA1/NA1 and five FcγRIIIb-NA2/NA2 donors. A statistical analysis revealed that the expression levels of five proteins were significantly different between the FcγRIIIb genotypes (p < 0.05). The FcγRIIIb-NA1/NA1 neutrophils exhibited two spots that were significantly underexpressed (protein-arginine deiminase type-4 and annexin VI) and three spots that were significantly overexpressed (Cdc42hs-Gdp complex, myosin light chain 12A and coactosin-like 1) when compared with FcγRIIIb-NA2/NA2 neutrophils. The same expression profiles of protein-arginine deiminase type-4 were obtained by ELISA. CONCLUSION Differential protein expression profiles were observed in neutrophils between FcγRIIIb genotypes.
Familiarité des concepts vivant et non vivant en fonction de l'âge et du genre.

Nous presentons la familiarite subjective estimee pour 120 concepts appartenant au domaine vivant (animaux, fruits, legumes) et non vivant (vehicules, vetements, outils) en fonction de l'âge et du genre des participants. Parallelement a la construction d'une base de concepts contribuant a terme a l'etude en francais de l'evolution de l'organisation conceptuelle lors du vieillissement normal et pathologique, nous testons l'hypothese d'une interaction genre/categorie. Les resultats montrent l'importance de distinguer les concepts en fonction de ces facteurs dans la construction des tâches experimentales.
Choosing schools: explorations in post-primary school choice in an urban Irish working class community

This paper examines post-primary school choice processes in the urban Irish working-class community of Portown. Here, there is an awareness of hegemonic neoliberal ideals and how school choice becomes a significantly classed space characterised by market ideologies and structural inequality. This critical ethnography explored the world through participant observation, semi-structured interviews over a 3-year period. The data examined here are drawn specifically from investigations into school choice processes. It deploys identity theories as thinking tools to examine the classed nature of engagement with school choice markets. The findings delineate three distinct groups of choosers in this school community: passive transitioners, active choosers and second-schoolers. The findings of the study reveal the entwined and co-constructed nature of identity and social class as well as examining the role played by school choices and differential access to economic, cultural and social resources in these processes.
Control of Bacterial Persister Cells by Trp/Arg-Containing Antimicrobial Peptides

ABSTRACT Persister cells are dormant phenotypic variants inherent in a bacterial population. They play important roles in chronic infections and present great challenges to therapy due to extremely enhanced tolerance to antibiotics compared to that of normal cells of the same genotype. In this study, we report that cationic membrane-penetrating peptides containing various numbers of arginine and tryptophan repeats are effective in killing persister cells of Escherichia coli HM22, a hyper-persister producer. The activities of three linear peptides [(RW) n -NH2, where n is 2, 3, or 4] and a dendrimeric peptide, (RW)4D, in killing bacterial persisters were compared. Although the dendrimeric peptide (RW)4D requires a lower threshold to kill planktonic persisters, octameric peptide (RW)4-NH2 is the most effective against planktonic persister cells at high concentrations. For example, treatment with 80 μM (RW)4-NH2 for 60 min led to a 99.7% reduction in the number of viable persister cells. The viability of persister cells residing in surface-attached biofilms was also significantly reduced by (RW)4-NH2 and (RW)4D. These two peptides were also found to significantly enhance the susceptibility of biofilm cells to ofloxacin. The potency of (RW)4-NH2 was further marked by its ability to disperse and kill preformed biofilms harboring high percentages of persister cells. Interestingly, approximately 70% of the dispersed cells were found to have lost their intrinsic tolerance and become susceptible to ampicillin if not killed directly by this peptide. These results are helpful for better understanding the activities of these peptides and may aid in future development of more effective therapies of chronic infections.
The Greater Incidence of Encapsulating Peritoneal Sclerosis is not the Result of Overdiagnosis

ncapsulating peritoneal sclerosis (EPS) is a serious complication of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) first reported by Gandhi in 1980 (1). It has been recognized as a relatively rare complication, with an incidence ranging between 0.4% and 2.5% according to reports published thereafter. A national survey on EPS was conducted in Japan for the first time in 1994, and that survey revealed a relatively low incidence (0.9%). For the past 6 years, however, increases have been noted in the incidence of EPS or peritoneal sclerosis (PS). Unfortunately, no national surveys have been conducted recently to provide accurate data on which a logical analysis can be made. The primary goal of the present study was to delineate the trend in the incidence of EPS; a secondary aim was to attempt to find the reason for the changing incidence pattern, based on an analysis of the reported data and of our experience. BACKGROUND OF EPS PATIENTS IN JAPAN
Ultrafast switching superjunction MOSFETs for single phase PFC applications

This paper presents a guide on characterizing state-of-the-art silicon superjunction (SJ) devices in the 600V range for single phase power factor correction (PFC) applications. The characterization procedure is based on a minimally inductive double pulse tester (DPT) with a very low intrusive current measurement method, which enables reaching the switching speed limits of these devices. Due to the intrinsic low and nonlinear capacitances in vertical SJ MOSFETs, special attention needs to be paid to the gate drive design to minimize oscillations and limit the maximum at turn off. This paper investigates the latest SJ devices in order to set a reference for future research on improvement over silicon (Si) attained with the introduction of wide bandgap devices in single phase PFC applications. The obtained results show that the latest generation of SJ devices set a new benchmark for its wide bandgap competitors.
Laser cooling and the highest bound states of the Na diatom system.

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Intravascular leiomyoma with heart extension

An intravascular (or intravenous) leiomyoma is a histologically benign tumor characterized by the proliferation of smooth muscle cells arising from the intrauterine venules and/or the myometrium (1-4); however, exceptional cases that arise from cutaneous vessels and pelvic or retroperitoneal veins have been found (5,6). This tumor affects only women, particularly middle-aged women (median age, 44 years) with a history of hysterectomy (4). Usually, an intravascular leiomyoma enters through the lumen of the iliac veins and grows into the inferior vena cava, sometimes reaching the right heart chambers (1-4,7-10). In this situation, one- or two-stage surgery has been used to prevent fatal complications (e.g., total tricuspid obstruction) (3,4,9-13). Here, we report the case of a 34-year-old totally asymptomatic woman with a history of uterine myoma and with evidence of a pelvic intracaval mass extending to the right atrium. The patient was treated with a one-stage surgical protocol that combined cardiac and vascular procedures in a thoracoabdominal approach under cardiopulmonary bypass at 32°C. The histological analysis of the excised specimen was consistent with an intravascular leiomyoma. The more recent findings on the pathogenesis, incidence, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of intravascular leiomyo are discussed in this communication.
The interactive effects of message appeal and individual differences on information processing and persuasion

Individuals differing in the extent to which they enjoy thinking (Cacioppo & Petty, 1982) were exposed either to factual or to evaluative messages pertaining to a fictitious automobile. The results show that message appeal moderates the relationship between need for cognition and judgments about the message, whereas beliefs about the product attributes mediate the relationship between message judgments and product evaluations. Theoretical and practical implications of the moderator-mediator distinction are discussed.
Competence‐based Qualifications: The Case against Change

Provides a contribution to the debate in the UK on the appropriateness of competence‐based qualifications. Identifies a number of weaknesses in the competence philosophy as currently defined, and a number of operational problems in implementing a national scheme of competence‐based vocational qualifications. Argues that the change to competence qualifications is unlikely to bring benefits commensurate with the required investment, and that the approach will be unworkable for higher level professional and managerial jobs. The first in a series of three, which is intended to stimulate critical debate within the education and training professions. The series will end with recommendations on a way forward within the established NCVQ framework.
Molecular basis of size and antigenic variation of a Mycoplasma hominis adhesin encoded by divergent vaa genes

The molecular basis for the size and antigenic diversity of the variable adherence-associated (Vaa) antigen, a major surface protein and a putative adhesin (of Mycoplasma hominis, is described. Size-variant alleles of the single-copy vaa gene encode abundant surface lipoproteins containing one to four nearly identical, tandem repetitive units of 121 amino acids in the central region of the mature Vaa product. Gain or loss of central repeats in vaa genes gives rise to distinct size-variant Vaa antigens in clonal populations of this organism. The N-terminal and repeat regions of Vaa contain highly conserved sequences, while the C-terminal region, implicated as the adherence-mediating module, is highly variable and divergent among different strains of this pathogen. Sequence variation in this region may underlie the strain-dependent binding of some monoclonal antibodies to Vaa products. The Vaa antigen is expressed in vivo during chronic, active arthritis associated with M. hominis infection and is highly immunogenic in the human host. Size variation and C-terminal antigenic divergence of Vaa could affect the adherence of M. hominis and evasion of antibody-mediated immunity, thereby contributing to the organism's adaptive capability in the human host. Variation in vaa genes reveals a distinct pattern of mutations generating mycoplasma surface variation.
High Failure Rate After Laparoscopic Adjustable Silicone Gastric Banding for Treatment of Morbid Obesity

ObjectiveTo report the results from one of the eight original U.S. centers performing laparoscopic adjustable silicone gastric banding (LASGB), a new minimally invasive surgical technique for treatment of morbid obesity. Summary Background DataLaparoscopic adjustable silicone gastric banding is under evaluation by the Food & Drug Administration in the United States in an initial cohort of 300 patients. MethodsOf 37 patients undergoing laparoscopic placement of the LASGB device, successful placement occurred in 36 from March 1996 to May 1998. Patients have been followed up for up to 4 years. ResultsFive patients (14%) have been lost to follow-up for more than 2 years but at last available follow-up (3–18 months after surgery) had achieved only 18% (range 5–38%) excess weight loss. African American patients had poor weight loss after LASGB compared with whites. The LASGB devices were removed in 15 (41%) patients 10 days to 42 months after surgery. Four patients underwent simple removal; 11 were converted to gastric bypass. The most common reason for removal was inadequate weight loss in the presence of a functioning band. The primary reasons for removal in others were infection, leakage from the inflatable silicone ring causing inadequate weight loss, or band slippage. The patients with band slippage had concomitant poor weight loss. Bands were removed in two others as a result of symptoms related to esophageal dilatation. In 18 of 25 patients (71%) who underwent preoperative and long-term postoperative contrast evaluation, a significantly increased esophageal diameter developed; of these, 13 (72%) had prominent dysphagia, vomiting, or reflux symptoms. Of the remaining 21 patients with bands, 8 currently desire removal and conversion to gastric bypass for inadequate weight loss. Six of the remaining patients have persistent morbid obesity at least 2 years after surgery but refuse to undergo further surgery or claim to be satisfied with the results. Overall, only four patients achieved a body-mass index of less than 35 and/or at least a 50% reduction in excess weight. Thus, the overall need for band removal and conversion to GBP in this series will ultimately exceed 50%. ConclusionsThe authors did not find LASGB to be an effective procedure for the surgical treatment of morbid obesity. Complications after LASGB include esophageal dilatation, band leakage, infection, erosion, and slippage. Inadequate weight loss is common, particularly in African American patients. More study is required to determine the long-term efficacy of the LASGB
Improving Disturbance-Rejection Performance Based on an Equivalent-Input-Disturbance Approach

This paper presents a new method of improving the disturbance-rejection performance of a servo system based on the estimation of an equivalent input disturbance (EID). First, the concept of EID is defined. Next, the configuration of an improved servo system employing the new disturbance-estimation method is described. Then, a method of designing a control law employing a disturbance estimate is explained. Finally, the speed control of a rotational control system is used to demonstrate the validity of the method, and some design guidelines are presented.
Pricing Bilateral Electricity Trade between Smart Grids and Hybrid Green Datacenters

Datacenter demand response is envisioned as a promising approach for mitigating operational instability faced by smart grids. It enables significant potentials in peak load shedding and facilitates the incorporation of distributed generation and intermittent energy sources. This work considers two key aspects towards realtime electricity pricing for eliciting demand response: (i) Two-way electricity flow between smart grids and large datacenters with hybrid green generation capabilities. (ii) The geo-distributed nature of large cloud systems, and hence the potential competition among smart grids that serve different datacenters of the cloud. We propose a pricing scheme tailored for geo-distributed green datacenters, from a multi-leader single-follower game point of view. At the cloud side, in quest for performance, scalability and robustness, the energy cost is minimized in a distributed manner, based on the technique of alternating direction of multipliers (ADMM). At the smart grid side, a practical equilibrium of the pricing game is desired. To this end, we employ mathematical programming with equilibrium constraints (MPEC), equilibrium problem with equilibrium constraints (EPEC) and exact linearization, to transform the multi-leader single-follower pricing game into a mixed integer linear program (MILP) that can be readily solved. The effectiveness of the proposed solutions is evaluated based on trace-driven simulations.
Taming hardware event samples for FDO compilation

Feedback-directed optimization (FDO) is effective in improving application runtime performance, but has not been widely adopted due to the tedious dual-compilation model, the difficulties in generating representative training data sets, and the high runtime overhead of profile collection. The use of hardware-event sampling to generate estimated edge profiles overcomes these drawbacks. Yet, hardware event samples are typically not precise at the instruction or basic-block granularity. These inaccuracies lead to missed performance when compared to instrumentation-based FDO@. In this paper, we use multiple hardware event profiles and supervised learning techniques to generate heuristics for improved precision of basic-block-level sample profiles, and to further improve the smoothing algorithms used to construct edge profiles. We demonstrate that sampling-based FDO can achieve an average of 78% of the performance gains obtained using instrumentation-based exact edge profiles for SPEC2000 benchmarks, matching or beating instrumentation-based FDO in many cases. The overhead of collection is only 0.74% on average, while compiler based instrumentation incurs 6.8%-53.5% overhead (and 10x overhead on an industrial web search application), and dynamic instrumentation incurs 28.6%-1639.2% overhead.
A novel mutation, cog, which results in production of a new porin protein (OmpG) of Escherichia coli K-12

A mutant of Escherichia coli K-12 which produces a new outer membrane protein, OmpG, was isolated and genetically and biochemically characterized. The presence of OmpG allows growth on maltodextrins in the absence of the LamB maltoporin. The data obtained from in vivo growth and uptake experiments suggested that the presence of the OmpG protein results in an increase in outer membrane permeability for small hydrophilic compounds. In light of these findings, we suggest that OmpG is a porinlike protein. The mutation which results in the expression of OmpG has been termed cog (for control of OmpG) and mapped to 29 min on the E. coli chromosome. Diploid analysis shows that the mutant cog-192 allele is recessive for both the Dex+ and OmpG+ phenotypes. We propose that the cog mutation destroys a negative regulatory function and therefore derepresses ompG expression.