Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The ability of large T antigen to complex with p53 is necessary for the increased life span and partial transformation of human cells by simian virus 40

Simian virus 40 (SV40) T antigen binds to the tumor suppressor p53 protein, and this association may contribute to oncogenic transformation by the virus. We investigated the importance of this binding on transformation by examining three replication-competent mutants of SV40 (402DE, 402DN, and 402DH). These mutants express T antigens defective in binding to human and monkey p53s but retain some binding with mouse p53. All showed significant reduction in their ability to induce transformed cell foci of two normal human cell lines as well as a slight reduction with mouse embryo cells. Other comparable mutants which express T antigens retaining the ability to complex with p53 were able to induce foci at wild-type levels in both human and mouse cells. Further studies were performed with five T-antigen-positive clones isolated from the few human cell foci that appeared after transfection with 402 mutant DNAs. All five clones reached senescence at about the same point as did the parental untransformed cells. However, six other human cell clones obtained after transfection with DNA from nondefective mutants or wild-type virus were still growing well at more than 10 passages beyond their expected life span. These results suggest that the ability of T antigen to form stable complexes with p53 is necessary for SV40 to extend the life span and partially transform human cells in culture.
A 79-GHz LTCC differential microstrip line to laminated waveguide transition using high permittivity material

A differential microstrip line (DMSL) to laminated waveguide (LWG) transition based on low temperature co-fired ceramic technology is presented in this paper. The transition is designed for the 76 – 81 GHz radar frequency band using high permittivity material (εr = 7.4). The achieved bandwidth at 10 dB return loss is more than 10 GHz. For measurement purposes, another metallic rectangular waveguide to LWG transition was designed and cascaded with the DMSL-to-LWG transition. The measurement results of the fabricated prototype agree closely with the simulation. The designed transition simplifies the application of monolithic microwave integrated circuits with differential outputs and enables low-cost integration of W-band radar components on ceramic substrate.
Sources of floral scent variation

Studies of floral scent generally assume that genetic adaptation due to pollinator-mediated natural selection explains a significant amount of phenotypic variance, ignoring the potential for phenotypic plasticity in this trait. In this paper, we assess this latter possibility, looking first at previous studies of floral scent variation in relation to abiotic environmental factors. We then present data from our own research that suggests among-population floral scent variation is determined, in part, by environmental conditions and thus displays phenotypic plasticity. Such an outcome has strong ramifications for the study of floral scent variation; we conclude by presenting some fundamental questions that should lead to greater insight into our understanding of the evolution of this trait, which is important to plant-animal interactions.
The Economic Impacts of Aquatic Invasive Species: A Review of the Literature

Invasive species are a growing threat in the United States, causing losses in biodiversity, changes in ecosystems, and impacts on economic enterprises such as agriculture, fisheries, and international trade. The costs of preventing and controlling invasive species are not well understood or documented, but estimates indicate that the costs are quite high. The costs of aquatic invasive species are even less well understood than those for terrestrial species. A systematic approach is needed to develop a consistent method to estimate the national costs of aquatic invasives. This review of the economic literature on aquatic invasive species is the first stage in the development of that estimate. We reviewed over sixty sources and include both empirical papers that present cost estimates as well as theoretical papers on preventing and mitigating the impacts of aquatic invasive species. Species-specific estimates are included for both animals and plants.
From edgemost to lexical stress: Diachronic paths, typology and representation

Abstract This article presents a theory of the development of lexical accents in edgemost stress systems, and their representations. It is shown that, first, the directionality of different levels of prominence at the word and above-word level, and, second, morphologization as a result of prosodic weakening work together for the development of various types of lexical accents. Our proposal makes a number of predictions with respect to: (a) whether a system will develop lexical accents, (b) their initial shape when the default stress is fossilized, and (c) their subsequent reshaping. To substantiate our predictions, we examine approximately fifty edgemost stress systems. Furthermore, we propose a two-dimensional theory of the representation of lexical accents that distinguishes between the morphological affiliation of an accent and its locus of pronunciation. The soundness of our theory is tested not only on the grounds of its explanatory power in capturing diachronic changes, but also with respect to its empirical coverage of contemporary theoretical issues concerning the representation of lexical accents.
A Hybrid Model For Information Retrieval From Microblogs During Disaster

When the disaster occurs, the social network site such as Twitter is increasingly being used for helping direct rescue operations. This article describes the methods we used in the Fire2017. We regarded the distinction of need-tweets and availability-tweets as classification tasks, and the logistic regression and Support Vector Machine are used to decide the type of the tweets. In the need and availability matching, we regard it as an information retrieval task, using the retrieval model to complete the task.
Choline Acetyltransferase from the Electric Organ of Electrophorus electricus (L.) – Physicochemical Characterization and Immunochemical Identification

Abstract Acetylcholine Biosynthesis, Choline Acetyltransferase, Electrophorus electricus (L.), Electrocytes It is well known that the regulation of choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) activity, under physiological conditions, is important for the development and neuronal activities of cholinergic systems. The purification of ChAT has been obtained from many sources such as electric organs of fishes, Drosophila melonogaster, and mammals. We have prepared choline acetyl-transferase from a pool of supernatants obtained by differential centrifugation of electric organ homogenates from Electrophorus electricus (L.) in Tris-phosphate buffer, 0.05 m , pH 7.6. The first step of the enzyme purification was performed by ammonium sulfate precipitation at 40% and 80% . The precipitate at 80% was solubilized with sodium-phosphate buffer 0.05м , pH 7.6, dialyzed, chromatographed on DEAE-52 column and the active fraction submitted to FPLC system columns (Mono-Q: ion exchange -Superose-12: gel filtration). ChAT activity from the eluates was estimated by Fonnun’s method [Fonnun, 1975], with Acetyl-Coenzyme A tritium labelled ([3H ]AcCoA) as substrate, and the synthesis of 3HACh formed was measured. The peak from gel filtration showed a relative molecular mass of 80 kDa with highest activity in the order of 77,42 nmoles ACh/min/mg protein. This fraction was analyzed by SDS-PAGE and a band of 42 kDa was detected with Coomassie blue stain, indicating that the enzyme is formed by two subunits. Employing an antibody, the presence of ChAT was confirmed with the Western blotting technique. Isoelectrofocusing analysis demonstrated two isoforms with pI of 6,49 and 6,56, respectively.
Turnover rate of the cardiac Na(+)‐Ca2+ exchanger in guinea‐pig ventricular myocytes.

1. Single guinea‐pig ventricular myocytes were voltage clamped using the whole‐cell configuration of the patch‐clamp technique and membrane current generated by the Na(+)‐Ca2+ exchange mechanism recorded. 2. Rapid increases in cytosolic free calcium ([Ca2+]i) evoked by flash photolysis of either nitr‐5 or DM‐nitrophen resulted in current relaxations, arising from a redistribution of exchanger carrier conformations induced by the changes in [Ca2+]i. 3. Relaxation time constants were temperature dependent with a temperature coefficient over a 10 degrees C range (Q10) of approximately 3 and also voltage dependent, decreasing on hyperpolarization for membrane potentials in the range +40 to ‐80 mV. 4. The experimental results are consistent with consecutive exchange models having electrogenic Na+ translocation steps, together with a site density and turnover rate similar to that for the Na(+)‐K+ pump.
Characterizing the Passage of Personal Care Products Through Wastewater Treatment Processes

Wastewater treatment facilities use secondary treatment to stabilize the effect of discharged effluent on receiving waters by oxidizing biodegradable organic matter and reducing suspended solids and nutrients. The process was never specifically intended to remove trace quantities of xenobiotics, such as endocrine‐disrupting compounds (EDCs) and pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs). Nevertheless, European studies performed at bench‐scale or at small facilities have demonstrated that a critical minimum solids retention time (SRT) can achieve good reduction of many EDCs and pharmaceuticals. The objective of this study was to expand these findings to the removal performance for 20 PPCPs commonly found in the influent to full‐scale facilities operating in the United States. The participating plants use SRT conditions ranging from 0.5 to 30 days and include facility capacities ranging from 19 000 m3/d (5 mgd) to greater than 1 136 000 m3/d (300 mgd). Two pilot membrane bioreactors were also included in the study. The 20 PPCPs were categorized into nine bin combinations of occurrence frequency and treatment reduction performance. While most compounds were well removed, galaxolide (a musk fragrance) occurred frequently and was resistant to removal. A minimum critical SRT, defined as the minimum SRT, needed to consistently demonstrate greater than 80% removal (SRT80), was compound‐dependent, with most compounds removed at 5 to 15 days and a small group requiring longer SRTs. From limited data, no additional removal could be attributed to the use of membrane bioreactors, media filters, or longer hydraulic retention times. Reverse osmosis was effective in removing any remaining compounds.
La influencia del informe de auditoría en la obtención de financiación bancaria

RESUMEN El presente estudio aborda la influencia que ejerce el tipo de opinión que emite el auditor en su informe (limpia, con salvedades, desfavorable o denegada) en la obtención de financiación bancaria por parte de las empresas. Así, tratamos de obtener evidencia sobre la relación que cabe esperar entre la opinión que emite el auditor en su informe y la posibilidad de obtención de financiación bancaria, por cuanto cabe suponer que una empresa cuyas cuentas anuales presenten un informe de auditoría con una opinión con objeciones tendrá menos posibilidades de obtener financiación. En el trabajo partimos con una base de 316 empresas seleccionadas mediante muestreo aleatorio y para las que hemos reunido, junto a información cualitativa, diferente información económico-financiera. La metodología del trabajo se basa en el uso de datos de panel para la muestra de empresas en el periodo 1999–2002. En este sentido, hemos definido como variable dependiente el incremento de la deuda bancaria, para relacionarla con las dos variables independientes que determinan las hipótesis del trabajo, la opinión que el auditor emite en su informe de auditoría y la influencia del tipo de auditor de la empresa. Como variables de control se han empleado el sector económico, la rentabilidad, la liquidez, el incremento del activo, el endeudamiento, el riesgo, el tamaño y la antigüedad de la empresa. Los resultados alcanzados permiten concluir que el informe de auditoría juega un papel relevante en la obtención de financiación ajena procedente de entidades crediticias.
Developing performance-based medical school assessment programs in resource-limited environments

While the use of performance-based assessments in medical schools is widespread, there are unique issues associated with developing and establishing simulated clinical examinations when resources are limited. The faculty at the National University of Cuyo (NUC) in Mendoza, Argentina, has successfully implemented an OSCE as part of the medical school graduation requirements. This paper provides an overview of the issues faced by NUC faculty in setting up a standardized patient (SP)-based assessment with only limited resources, and contrasts their experiences with those of other groups, including certification and licensure bodies who have implemented similar types of assessments. Despite their novelty and a lack of technological, staffing, and budgetary resources, with adequate planning, an emphasis on faculty involvement, quality case development, local SP recruitment and training activities, educational programs focused on assessment, and flexibility in creating a physical space to conduct the exam, an effective program for assessing the clinical skills of medical students can be realized.
Population trends in American Jewry.

The author examines population trends among Jews in the United States. The effects of decreased immigration current trends in marriage and fertility intermarriage residential mobility and age structure on the future of the U.S. Jewish population are discussed. The impact of population decline and dispersal on the American Jewish community is considered. (ANNOTATION)
Investigation of Dielectric-Modulated Double-Gate Junctionless MOSFET for detection of biomolecules

In this work, we propose a Dielectric-Modulated (DM) Double-Gate (DG) Junctionless (JL) Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor (MOS) Field Effect Transistor (FET) which is working as biosensor for the label free electrical detection of the biomolecules. We have studied the characteristics such as surface potential, electric field, energy bands, and drain current of the DM-DG-Junctionless MOSFET by the device simulation. The shift in the threshold voltage has been used as the sensing metric to detect the sensitivity after the biomolecule interacts with the device.
Atrial natriuretic peptide release in response to different positive end‐expiratory pressure levels

ObjectiveTo assess the influence of different positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) levels on plasma atrial natriuretic peptide concentrations. DesignProspective, randomized study. SettingIntensive care unit of a university hospital. PatientsTwenty-seven patients who were mechanically ventilated due to acute respiratory failure. InterventionNone. Measurements and Main ResultsThe patients were randomized into three groups: in each group, a defined PEEP level (5, 10, or 15 cm H2O, respectively) was applied, alternating with zero PEEP (0 cm H2O) in consecutive order (reversal experiment). Blood samples for the determination of atrial natriuretic peptide concentrations were drawn from the pulmonary artery and the radial artery catheters. There were no decreases in atrial natriuretic peptide concentrations with a PEEP of 5 cm H2O, but significant decreases could be shown for PEEP values of 10 and 15 cm H2O. The patients of all groups were subjected to PEEP levels of 5, 10, 15, and 20 cm H2O in randomized order (step experiment). The data demonstrated a significant inverse correlation between changes in PEEP levels and changes in plasma atrial natriuretic peptide concentrations. ConclusionThe data suggest that the release of atrial natriuretic peptide is influenced by a PEEP of≥10 cm H2O, while a PEEP of ≤5 cm H2O does not disturb this cardiac endocrine function. (Crit Care Med 1993; 21:343–347)
State-of-charge inconsistency estimation for li-ion battery pack using electrochemical model

In order to maximize capacity utilization and guarantee safe operation of Li-ion battery pack, state-of-charge (SOC) inconsistency estimation is essential. And estimating cell electrochemical internal variables is also the requirement of next generation battery management system (BMS). However, it is challenging for the BMS in electric vehicles due to dynamic current conditions and limited computational resources. This paper proposes a novel approach to estimate SOC inconsistency for Li-ion battery pack with reference-plus-difference model where the reference model represents the overall performance of the battery pack. An electrochemical model is used as the reference model for its high-fidelity, low parameter sensitivity, and the capability of estimating cell electrochemical internal variables. Then SOC difference of each battery is achieved by bias correction technique using readily available measurements. The proposed approach is verified by experiments and simulations which show a satisfactory balance between estimation accuracy and computational burden. Based on the SOC inconsistency, battery equalization can be further implemented.
Ras-activated Dsor1 promotes Wnt signaling in Drosophila development

ABSTRACT Wnt/Wingless (Wg) and Ras–MAPK signaling both play fundamental roles in growth and cell fate determination, and when dysregulated, can lead to tumorigenesis. Several conflicting modes of interaction between Ras–MAPK and Wnt signaling have been identified in specific cellular contexts, causing synergistic or antagonistic effects on target genes. We find novel evidence that the Drosophila homolog of the dual specificity kinases MEK1/2 (also known as MAP2K1/2), Downstream of Raf1 (Dsor1), is required for Wnt signaling. Knockdown of Dsor1 results in loss of Wg target gene expression, as well as reductions in stabilized Armadillo (Arm; Drosophila β-catenin). We identify a close physical interaction between Dsor1 and Arm, and find that catalytically inactive Dsor1 causes a reduction in active Arm. These results suggest that Dsor1 normally counteracts the Axin-mediated destruction of Arm. We find that Ras–Dsor1 activity is independent of upstream activation by EGFR, and instead it appears to be activated by the insulin-like growth factor receptor to promote Wg signaling. Taken together, our results suggest that there is a new crosstalk pathway between insulin and Wg signaling that is mediated by Dsor1. Highlighted Article: Ras-activated Dsor1 (MEK in mammals) promotes Wnt signaling in normal Drosophila development. This interaction is conserved in mammalian cells.
New species and records of Shrungabeeja from southern China

Three species of the anamorphic fungus Shrungabeeja were collected from tropical forests in Yunnan Province, southern China. S. melicopeae sp. nov. and S. begoniae sp. nov. are described and illustrated from specimens collected respectively on dead branches of Melicope triphylla and Begonia semperflorens. S. vadirajensis is recorded for the first time from China. A key to the three known species of Shrungabeeja is provided.
Promoter Demethylation and Histone Acetylation Mediate Gene Expression of MAGE-A1, -A2, -A3, and -A12 in Human Cancer Cells

The broad range of expression of cancer-testis antigens in various tumor types makes the proteins encoded by human MAGE gene family promising targets for anticancer immunotherapy. However, a major drawback is their heterogeneous expression. In the current study, we have examined the influence of the DNA methylase inhibitor 5-aza-2′-deoxycytidine (5-aza-CdR) together with the histone deacetylase inhibitor trichostatin A on the expression of MAGE-A1, -A2, -A3, and -A12 genes in different cell lines. Reverse transcription-PCR, Western blot analyses, and immunocytochemical staining show that trichostatin A was able to significantly up-regulate 5-aza-CdR-induced MAGE gene expression. Transient transfection assays with methylated reporter plasmids containing promoter fragments of the different MAGE genes show that trichostatin A was able to overcome gene silencing. In addition, the methylation status of the MAGE promoters was assessed by sodium bisulfite mapping in the various cell lines before and after stimulation with 5-aza-CdR and/or trichostatin A. In contrast to the methylation patterns, which clearly correlated with the basal MAGE RNA transcripts, up-regulation of the MAGE-A mediated by both agents only resulted in a reduction in promoter methylation ranging between 1% and 19%. In conclusion, our data show for the first time that not only hypermethylation but also histone deacetylation is responsible for the mechanism underlying MAGE gene silencing. (Mol Cancer Res 2006;4(5):339–49)
Modification of an outbreak of influenza in Tecumseh, Michigan by vaccination of schoolchildren.

Annual vaccination against influenza has been recommended primarily for the chronically ill and the elderly because excess numbers of deaths occur regularly in these groups during outbreaks [1, 2]. However, vaccination of the elderly, while affording them needed protection, cannot be expected to change the course of an epidemic markedly, since this group represents but a small segment of the total population and have a relatively low attack rate [3]. In contrast, school-age children comprise a large, susceptible segment of the population and regularly have a high attack rate [4]. The schoolchildren also appear to be responsible for bringing influenza into the home, a transmission similar to the way in which they introduce the common respiratory illnesses [5]. These children are, therefore, one of the most important factors in the dissemination of influenza viruses.
Classifying collaborative approaches for cloud based collaborative software development

Software development is an activity involving a remix set of different people, tools, practice culture, etcetera, and working towards an end goal. Achieving the goal necessitates that all these aspects work together towards the end goal. Furthermore, the size, complexity, longevity and tight delivery timelines of software projects, form part of the rationale for collaboration in software development processes. With the advent of Cloud computing, these factors have become more pronounced. Other factors such as increased distribution, have also become part of the rationale increasing the need for better collaborative approaches. Collaboration can take numerous forms and dimensions, but that does not necessarily mean that any form of collaborative approach is good for every scenario or context. There is no “one size fits all” approach. Different development contexts may require different collaborative approaches for greater effectiveness. So, which collaborative approach is right, and which is wrong, for Cloud-based software development lifecycle? This paper reviews literature with an aim of presenting a classification for collaborative approaches towards context-aware Cloud-based software development.
In sight but out of mind.

A 44-year-old woman was admitted to an Italian hospital with fever and chills that had started approximately 1 week earlier. A few days after onset of fever, she had noticed a red, nonpruritic, confluent, maculopapular rash which began on her face and descended to her body. She also complained of red eyes, photophobia, dyspnea, and watery diarrhea. She denied nausea, vomiting, headache, or neck stiffness. She had seen her primary care physician who had concomitantly prescribed amoxicillin, levofloxacin, and betamethasone. She took the medications for several days without symptomatic improvement.