Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
MINIREVIEW Molecular Basis of 3-Lactamase Induction in Bacteria

Inducible synthesis of 3-lactamases was first described for the gram-positive organism Bacillus licheniformis (6) and was followed by similar reports for Bacillus cereus (1) and Staphylococcus aureus (7). Unlike the ,-lactamases of gram- positive bacteria, the majority of ,B-lactamases of gram-negative bacteria are expressed constitutively (9). However, in 1967, Hennessey (10) described an inducible P-lactamase of Enterobacter cloacae that is now known to be encoded by the chromosomal ampC gene (23, 31). Inducible expression of ampC-like genes has subsequently been reported for Citrobacterfreundii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and various other gram-negative bacteria (2, 15, 23, 31, 36, 40). Staphylococcal ,3-lactamases are predominantly plasmid encoded, extracellular enzymes, most of which are inducible Early studies by Richmond led to the proposal that inducible P-lactamase synthesis in S. aureus was under the negative control of a diffusible repressor (BlaI or PenI) that bound to the operator site of the 3-lactamase structural gene (blaZ orpenP), preventing its transcription. Broadly similar regarding the inducible expression of the chromosomally encoded 3-lactamase of B. licheniformis. In addition to the blaI gene, two further regulatory loci, designated blaRl and blaR2, have now been
The growth and optical properties of large, high-quality AlN single crystals

The effect of impurities and defects on the optical properties of AlN was investigated. High-quality AlN single crystals of more than 20mm2 size were examined. Different crucible materials and growth procedures were applied to the growth of bulk AlN by physical vapor transport method to vary the defect and the impurity concentrations. The crystalline orientation was investigated by Raman spectroscopy. Glow discharge mass spectrometry was used to determine the trace concentration of the incorporated impurities such as oxygen and carbon. The photoluminescence emission and absorption properties of the crystals revealed bands around 3.5 and 4.3eV at room temperature. Absorption edges ranging between 4.1 and 5.95eV were observed. Since no straight correlation of the oxygen concentration was obtained, a major contribution of oxygen or oxygen-related impurities was ruled out to generate the observed emission and absorption bands in the Ultraviolet spectral range. The carbon-related impurities and intrinsic defec.
Revisiting the North Chile seismic gap segmentation using GPS-derived interseismic coupling

No major earthquake occurred in North Chile since the 1877 M w 8.6 subduction earthquake that produced a huge tsunami. However, geodetic measurements conducted over the last decade in this area show that the upper plate is actually deforming, which reveals some degree of locking on the subduction interface. This accumulation of elastic deformation is likely to be released in a future earthquake. Because of the long elapsed time since 1877 and the rapid accumulation of deformation (thought to be 6–7 cm/yr), many consider this area is a mature seismic gap where a major earthquake is due and seismic hazard is high. We present a new Global Positioning System (GPS) velocity field, acquired between 2008 and 2012, that describes in some detail the interseismic deformation between 18°S and 24°S. We invert for coupling distribution on the Nazca-South America subduction interface using elastic modelling. Our measurements require that, at these latitudes, 10 to 12 mm yr−1 (i.e. 15 per cent of the whole convergence rate) are accommodated by the clockwise rotation of an Andean block bounded to the East by the subandean fold-and-thrust belt. This reduces the accumulation rate on the subduction interface to 56 mm yr−1 in this area. Coupling variations on the subduction interface both along-strike and along-dip are described. We find that the North Chile seismic gap is segmented in at least two highly locked segments bounded by narrow areas of weak coupling. This coupling segmentation is consistent with our knowledge of the historical ruptures and of the instrumental seismicity of the region. Intersegment zones (Iquique, Mejillones) correlate with high background seismic rate and local tectonic complexities on the upper or downgoing plates. The rupture of either the Paranal or the Loa segment alone could easily produce a Mw 8.0–8.3 rupture, and we propose that the Loa segment (from 22.5◦S to 20.8◦S) may be the one that ruptured in 1877.
Alpha-irradiation effects in SiO2

Natural and synthetic crystalline α-quartz, as well as synthetic SiO 2 glass, were irradiated with different doses of 8.8 MeV He 2+ ions. The irradiation-induced alteration was characterised using Raman and cathodoluminescence (CL) spectroscopy, optical microscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and CL and electron microscope imaging. The initially dull bluish-violet CL colour of the two α-quartz samples was found to be transformed to bright yellow in the irradiated areas. The emission maximum was observed 45 μ m below the surface, which corresponds well with correlated helium trajectory lengths and defect density distribution. Both, total intensity and radial intensity distribution of the CL emission change with the irradiation dose. Observations suggest a nonlinear, approximately logarithmic increase of the CL intensity depending on the alpha dose. Significant broadening of Raman bands is only observed near the far end of helium trajectories. This broadening is not only caused by the structural radiation damage but also by strain between strongly and lowly damaged areas.
Observations on the prophylaxis of experimental pulmonary anthrax in the monkey

The evidence presented supports the hypothesis that the experimental form of anthrax induced by depositing a cloud of single spores on lung epithelium is initiated in the lymphatic regions and not in lung tissue. Proportionately few of the deposited spores reach the lymph glands. The majority remain inactive in so far as induction of disease is concerned. Slowly, however, they seem to go through the first stages of germination but do not multiply and therefore die. This is probably the major factor operative in their disappearance from the lung. Effective prophylactic measures are suggested for dealing with an unimmunized host exposed to anthrax infection by the pulmonary route.
Structural identification of a modified base in DNA covalently bound with mutagenic 3-amino-1-methyl-5H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole.

A mutagen, 3-amino-1-methyl-5H-pyrido [4, 3-b] indole (Trp-P-2, 1), was reacted with DNA in the presence of rat liver microsomes. One of the modified bases was identified as 3-(C8-guanyl) amino-1-methyl-5H-pyrido [4, 3-b] indole (2).
The Comparison of Equal-Value Gray Scales

Equal-value gray scales devised by cartographers and psychologists vary largely because of differing experimental designs and processes governing conversion of surface reflectances to inked-area percentages. Reflectance measurements for inked gray tones of a given area demonstrate a non-linear relationship. Mathematical models of printed paper's surface reflectance predict non-linearity of the same degree as that measured. This measured non-linearity is used to convert the Munsell and Stevens equal-value scales to inked-area percentages. Comparison of scales devised by cartographers over the years show that all except the Williams scale are similar to the Munsell value scale.
A Systematic Review of Biopsychosocial Training Programs for the Self-Management of Emotional Stress: Potential Applications for the Military

Combat-exposed troops and their family members are at risk for stress reactions and related disorders. Multimodal biopsychosocial training programs incorporating complementary and alternative self-management techniques have the potential to reduce stress-related symptoms and dysfunction. Such training can preempt or attenuate the posttraumatic stress response and may be effectively incorporated into the training cycle for deploying and redeploying troops and their families. A large systematic review was conducted to survey the literature on multimodal training programs for the self-management of emotional stress. This report is an overview of the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) identified in this systematic review. Select programs such as mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, Cognitive Behavioral Stress Management, Autogenic Training, Relaxation Response Training, and other meditation and mind-body skills practices are highlighted, and the feasibility of their implementation within military settings is addressed.
A scalable hardware architecture for retinal blood vessel detection in high resolution fundus images

Blood vessel detection from high resolution fundus images is a necessary step in several medical applications. Automatic blood vessels detection is a computing intensive task which raises the need for accelerated hardware architectures. In this paper, we propose a scalable hardware architecture for blood vessel detection using a matched filter (MF). The algorithm is made hardware friendly using parallel processing and efficient resources sharing to achieve real-time performances. The paper also introduces a tool for the automatic generation of an HDL description based on the proposed architecture as a template. The tool takes as input the parameters of the filter to deal with the parameter selection problem and to make their choice more flexible. Performances in terms of area utilization and maximum frequency are reported. Several designs were verified and implemented on an FPGA platform. The results show significant improvements over the state of the art implementations, up to a factor of 10× for high resolution fundus images.
Interannual Variability of Rhine River Streamflow and Its Relationship with Large-Scale Anomaly Patterns in Spring and Autumn

AbstractInterannual-to-decadal variability of Rhine River streamflow and their relationship with large-scale climate anomaly patterns for spring [March–May (MAM)] and autumn [September–November (SON)] are investigated through a statistical analysis of observed streamflow data and global climate anomaly fields. A wavelet analysis reveals that spring streamflow variability is nonstationary with enhanced variability in the 8–16-yr band from 1860 to 1900 and in the 2–8 and 16–30 yr after 1960. A composite analysis reveals that streamflow anomalies during spring are related to a sea surface temperature (SST) pattern that resembles the corresponding El Nino–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) SST pattern. The corresponding atmospheric circulation pattern favors enhanced moisture advection over the Rhine catchment area during positive streamflow anomalies. During autumn, the streamflow variability follows a distribution similar to spring streamflow, but with a strong peak in the 30–60-yr band. Autumn streamflow anomalie.
Deconstructing the Hopewell Interaction Sphere

It is the intention of this paper to ponder the impetus behind the Hopewell Interaction Sphere and relate it back to the Hopewell society as a whole. I will present a number of models offered by other researchers and find a common theme that connects them all, namely ceremonialism. Socially valued items and ceremonialism are closely tied according to Katherine Spielmann and so through close examination I will find out how close they are. Also, more contemporary cross-cultural examples of ritual exchange will be presented to show its prevalence through time.
Estimating the Magnitude of Genetic Factors by Calculating the Genetic Relative Risk of Stroke in First-Ever Lacunar Stroke Patients

Background Positive family history of stroke is an independent risk factor for lacunar stroke. However, the magnitude of familial aggregation of a certain disease is better evaluated by the genetic relative risk. This is calculated by dividing the prevalence of specific disease in family members of patients by the prevalence of this disease in the general population. In a cohort of lacunar stroke patients, who were subtyped clinically and radiologically, we determined the genetic relative risk of stroke. Methods By questionnaire and additional interview, we obtained a complete first-degree family history of stroke. The prevalence of stroke in first-degree relatives of these lacunar stroke patients was compared to the self-reported prevalence of stroke in a Dutch community based cohort of elderly volunteers. Secondly, the influence of proband characteristics and family composition on parental and sibling history of stroke were evaluated. Principal Findings We collected data of 1066 first-degree relatives of 195 lacunar stroke patients. Strokes occurred in 13.5% of first-degree relatives. The genetic relative risk was 2.94 (95%CI 2.45–3.53) for overall first-degree relatives, 4.52 (95%CI 3.61–5.65) for patients' parents and 2.10 (95%CI 1.63–2.69) for patients' siblings. Age of proband and proband status for hypertension influenced the chance of having a parent with a history of stroke whereas the likelihood of having a concordant sibling increased with sibship size. Conclusions We found an increased genetic relative risk of stroke in first-degree relatives of patients with lacunar stroke. Our data warrant further genomic research in this well-defined high risk population for stroke.
Insights into the Determination of the Templating Nucleotide at the Initiation of φ29 DNA Replication*

Background: The initiation of replication in φ29 mainly occurs opposite the 3′ penultimate nucleotide of the template. Results: Mutations in the TP residue Phe-230 changed the specificity for the templating nucleotide. Conclusion: The results suggest a role for Phe-230 in determining the templating nucleotide. Significance: The results shed light on the positioning of the template nucleotide in organisms that initiate with protein-priming mechanism. Bacteriophage φ29 from Bacillus subtilis starts replication of its terminal protein (TP)-DNA by a protein-priming mechanism. To start replication, the DNA polymerase forms a heterodimer with a free TP that recognizes the replication origins, placed at both 5′ ends of the linear chromosome, and initiates replication using as primer the OH-group of Ser-232 of the TP. The initiation of φ29 TP-DNA replication mainly occurs opposite the second nucleotide at the 3′ end of the template. Earlier analyses of the template position that directs the initiation reaction were performed using single-stranded and double-stranded oligonucleotides containing the replication origin sequence without the parental TP. Here, we show that the parental TP has no influence in the determination of the nucleotide used as template in the initiation reaction. Previous studies showed that the priming domain of the primer TP determines the template position used for initiation. The results obtained here using mutant TPs at the priming loop where Ser-232 is located indicate that the aromatic residue Phe-230 is one of the determinants that allows the positioning of the penultimate nucleotide at the polymerization active site to direct insertion of the initiator dAMP during the initiation reaction. The role of Phe-230 in limiting the internalization of the template strand in the polymerization active site is discussed.
Friend of Prmt1, a Novel Chromatin Target of Protein Arginine Methyltransferases

ABSTRACT We describe the isolation and characterization of Friend of Prmt1 (Fop), a novel chromatin target of protein arginine methyltransferases. Human Fop is encoded by C1orf77, a gene of previously unknown function. We show that Fop is tightly associated with chromatin, and that it is modified by both asymmetric and symmetric arginine methylation in vivo. Furthermore, Fop plays an important role in the ligand-dependent activation of estrogen receptor target genes, including TFF1 (pS2). Fop depletion results in an almost complete block of estradiol-induced promoter occupancy by the estrogen receptor. Our data indicate that Fop recruitment to the promoter is an early critical event in the activation of estradiol-dependent transcription.
Reconfigurable content-based router using hardware-accelerated language parser

This article presents a dense logic design for matching multiple regular expressions with a field programmable gate array (FPGA) at 10+ Gbps. It leverages on the design techniques that enforce the shortest critical path on most FPGA architectures while optimizing the circuit size. The architecture is capable of supporting a maximum throughput of 12.90 Gbps on a Xilinx Virtex 4 LX200 and its performance is linearly scalable with size. Additionally, this article presents techniques for parsing data streams to provide semantic information for patterns found within a data stream. We illustrate how a content-based router can be implemented with our parsing techniques using an XML parser as an example. The content-based router presented was designed, implemented, and tested in a Xilinx Virtex XCV2000E FPGA on the FPX platform. It is capable of processing 32-bits of data per clock cycle and runs at 100 MHz. This allows the system to process and route XML messages at 3.2 Gbps.
Aquaporin-3 mediates hydrogen peroxide uptake to regulate downstream intracellular signaling

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) produced by cell-surface NADPH Oxidase (Nox) enzymes is emerging as an important signaling molecule for growth, differentiation, and migration processes. However, how cells spatially regulate H2O2 to achieve physiological redox signaling over nonspecific oxidative stress pathways is insufficiently understood. Here we report that the water channel Aquaporin-3 (AQP3) can facilitate the uptake of H2O2 into mammalian cells and mediate downstream intracellular signaling. Molecular imaging with Peroxy Yellow 1 Methyl-Ester (PY1-ME), a new chemoselective fluorescent indicator for H2O2, directly demonstrates that aquaporin isoforms AQP3 and AQP8, but not AQP1, can promote uptake of H2O2 specifically through membranes in mammalian cells. Moreover, we show that intracellular H2O2 accumulation can be modulated up or down based on endogenous AQP3 expression, which in turn can influence downstream cell signaling cascades. Finally, we establish that AQP3 is required for Nox-derived H2O2 signaling upon growth factor stimulation. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that the downstream intracellular effects of H2O2 can be regulated across biological barriers, a discovery that has broad implications for the controlled use of this potentially toxic small molecule for beneficial physiological functions.
Limited and Varying Consumer Attention: Evidence from Shocks to the Salience of Bank Overdraft Fees

We explore dynamics of limited attention in the $35 billion market for checking overdrafts, using survey content as shocks to the salience of overdraft fees. Conditional on selection into surveys, individuals who face overdraft-related questions are less likely to incur a fee in the survey month. Taking multiple overdraft surveys builds a "stock" of attention that reduces overdrafts for up to two years. The effects are significant among consumers with lower education and financial literacy. Individuals avoid overdrafts by making fewer low-balance debit transactions and cancelling automatic recurring withdrawals. The results raise new questions about consumer financial protection policy.
Homogeneous ice nucleation in aqueous ammonium sulfate aerosol particles

The mechanisms involved in cloud formation affect the resulting cloud radiative properties. Therefore, accurate cloud formation models and related global warming models require freezing data for ammonium sulfate particles, a major constituent of upper tropospheric clouds. Homogeneous ice nucleation in aqueous ammonium sulfate particles has been studied by several laboratory groups; however, there is significant disagreement in the reported data. In the present work, the ice freezing temperatures are measured by sending (NH 4 ) 2 SO 4 particles, generated by vapor condensation, through a temperature-controlled flow cell, where ice formation is detected with infrared spectroscopy. To determine possible explanations for disparate results among several laboratories, the experimental methods used in this study are closely examined. Experiments are performed to preclude artifacts, and experimental conditions are varied to develop a complete understanding of processes involved in particle freezing. All experiments produce consistent results. Mass transfer calculations for the aerosol flow tube technique employed in the current study suggest that one frozen particle in 10 4 to 10 6 may scavenge sufficient water vapor from surrounding supercooled aqueous particles such that a single ice particle accumulates enough mass to yield a positive freezing event in the infrared spectrum. This result appears to partially explain the confusing and conflicting results coming from several laboratories employing different experimental methods to observe homogeneous ice nucleation in ammonium sulfate. Six lower limit J (cm -3 s -1 ) values are determined as 1.1 1 x 10 6 (233 ± 1 K, x=0.013±0.001), 1.1 × 10 6 (231 ± 1 K, x=0.029±0.004), 1.7 × 10 6 (227±1 K, x=0.066±0.015), 2.8 × 10 6 (226±1 K, x=0.071±0.018), 8.4 × 10 6 (224±1 K, x=0.097 ±0.034), and 8.4 x 10 8 (221 ± 1 K, x = 0.153 ±0.076), where the associated temperatures and solute mole fraction aqueous compositions (x) are noted in parentheses.
Incorporating domain knowledge and spatial relationships into land cover classifications: a rule‐based approach

For some tropical regions, remote sensing of land cover yields unacceptable results, particularly as the number of land cover classes increases. This research explores the utility of incorporating domain knowledge and multiple algorithms into land cover classifications via a rule‐based algorithm for a series of satellite images. The proposed technique integrates the fundamental, knowledge‐based interpretation elements of remote sensing without sacrificing the ease and consistency of automated, algorithm‐based processing. Compared with results from a traditional maximum likelihood algorithm, classification accuracy was improved substantially for each of the six land cover classes and all three years in the image series. Use of domain knowledge proved effective in accurately classifying problematic tropical land covers, such as tropical deciduous forest and seasonal wetlands. Results also suggest that ancillary data may be most useful in the classification of historic images, where the greatest improvement was observed relative to results from maximum likelihood. The cost of incorporating contextual knowledge and extensive spatial data sets may be justified, since results from the proposed technique suggest a considerable improvement in accuracy may be achieved.