Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Market Forces Propelling Renewable Energy Technologies

uring the 1998 IEEE Power Engineering Society (PES) Summer Meeting, the Energy Development and Power Generation Committee sponsored a panel session on “Market Forces Propelling Renewable Energy Technologies. ” Panelists reviewed the current status of renewable energy technology programs in relation to the evolution of competitive electricity markets. Discussions focused on how regulatory and market drivers are being used to sustain and grow renewable energy technology development with particular focus on California’s market. California has nearly 6,600 MW of independently-owned and utility-owned renewable power capacity. This includes geothermal, solid fuel biomass, wind, small hydro, solar, landfill gas, digester gas, and municipal waste facilities. These facilities represent about 12 percent of electricity consumed in California. Policy measures to encourage renewable electricity technology development, including research and development to reduce cost and improve efficiency, tax credits, information dissemination, policy, 0 Digital Stock ket; who are the green power marketers? ; what are the products? ; how is the green power market impacting renewable generators and the environment? ; the impact of nonmarket actors; and early lessons and future prospects. Objectives to accelerate appropriate integration of wind power for utility applications was also discussed. The session was chaired by T.J. Hammons (University of Glasgow, United Kingdom) and J. McConnach (Ontario Hydro, Toronto, Canada). The panel session was organized by Peter Meisen (Global Energy Network Institute, San Diego) and Murray Paterson (Ontario Hydro Green Energy Project). The following presentations are summarized in this article: Renewable Energy and Electricity Restructuring: The California Model, by Michal C. Moore and Marwan H. Masri, Califomia Energy Commission Selling Green Power in California: Product, Industry, and Market Trends, by Ryan H. Wiser and Steven J. Pickle, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory The Future of Renew. and legislative mandates, were among the topics highlighted. Selling green power in California was considered in the presentations, including such topics as:’methods; size of the marables in the New California Marketplace, by Wayne P. Sakarias, San Diego Gas and Electric Company Integration of Wind Power for Utility Applications, by Robert Putman, Utility Wind Interest Group. This article summarizes presentations given ut the 1998 Summer Meeting panel session on “Market Forces Propelling Renewable Energy Technologies ’I The session was sponsored by the PES Energy Development and Power Generation Committee, organized by P Meisen and M Paterson, and chaired by T J Hammons and J McConnach
Activation of LINE-1 Retrotransposon Increases the Risk of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition and Metastasis in Epithelial Cancer

Epithelial cancers comprise 80-90% of human cancers. During the process of cancer progression, cells lose their epithelial characteristics and acquire stem-like mesenchymal features that are resistant to chemotherapy. This process, termed the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), plays a critical role in the development of metastases. Because of the unique migratory and invasive properties of cells undergoing the EMT, therapeutic control of the EMT offers great hope and new opportunities for treating cancer. In recent years, a plethora of genes and noncoding RNAs, including miRNAs, have been linked to the EMT and the acquisition of stem cell-like properties. Despite these advances, questions remain unanswered about the molecular processes underlying such a cellular transition. In this article, we discuss how expression of the normally repressed LINE-1 (or L1) retrotransposons activates the process of EMT and the development of metastases. L1 is rarely expressed in differentiated stem cells or adult somatic tissues. However, its expression is widespread in almost all epithelial cancers and in stem cells in their undifferentiated state, suggesting a link between L1 activity and the proliferative and metastatic behaviour of cancer cells. We present an overview of L1 activity in cancer cells including how genes involved in proliferation, invasive and metastasis are modulated by L1 expression. The role of L1 in the differential expression of the let-7 family of miRNAs (that regulate genes involved in the EMT and metastasis) is also discussed. We also summarize recent novel insights into the role of the L1-encoded reverse transcriptase enzyme in epithelial cell plasticity that suggest it might be a potential therapeutic target that could reverse the EMT and the metastasis-associated stem cell-like properties of cancer cells.
Metabolic Functions of Liver-Derived (Endocrine) Insulin-Like Growth Factor I

Until now it has been difficult to determine the relative importance of locally produced (autocrine/paracrine) versus systemically derived (endocrine) insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) in the intact organism. We recently eliminated IGF-I production in the livers of mice using the Cre/loxP recombination system. These mice displayed a reduction in serum IGF-I levels of more than 80%, but demonstrated normal body growth, suggesting that autocrine/paracrine-acting IGF-I, but not endocrine-acting IGF-I, regulates body growth. Long-term metabolic studies of mice in which IGF-I production had been inactivated in the liver, have shown that the mice have decreased fat mass, but increased serum levels of insulin and cholesterol. Despite the marked increase in plasma insulin following glucose administration, the glucose elimination was not altered in these animals. Thus, the mice showed an adequately compensated insulin resistance. In conclusion, liver-derived or endocrine IGF-I is not required for post-natal statural growth, but seems to be of vital importance for normal carbohydrate and lipid metabolism.
Acute phase proteins response in hunting dogs

Haptoglobin (Hp), serum amyloid A (SAA), C-reactive protein (CRP), and white blood cells (WBC) were assessed in 20 dogs divided into 2 groups. The dogs of group A were not subjected to hunting exercise (control group), while the dogs of group B were subjected to hunting exercise for 3 hr (experimental group). Blood samples were collected from each animal before hunting (T0), immediately after 3 hr of hunting (T1), and after 1 hr of recovery (T2). The general linear model (GLM) repeated measures procedure showed a significant difference between the 2 groups (P < 0.0001) and a significant rise (P < 0.0001) in concentration of Hp, SAA, and CRP after hunting exercise, with a consequent decline during recovery period in group B. These parameters could be considered valid and easily obtainable biomarkers in relation to hunting stress in dogs. Additional studies will continue to elucidate the magnitude and the time of response of other acute phase proteins.
Evidence that the Abdominal‐B r element function is conferred by a trans‐regulatory homeoprotein.

The Abdominal‐B gene is a homeotic gene located in the distal‐most region of the bithorax complex (BX‐C). Based on complementation analysis it has been proposed that the gene contains two separable genetic elements, called the m and r elements. The r element has a chiefly regulatory function confined to parasegment 14. In a reverse Northern screen of the distal‐most BX‐C DNA, we found four distinct areas that are transcribed in the embryo. One of the transcripts spans a large genomic region which, upon disruption by rearrangement breakpoints, causes loss of r element function. This transcript is expressed in the early embryo in a single domain apparently corresponding to parasegment 14. We propose that the small homeoprotein encoded by the transcript acts as a trans‐regulator to confer r element function.
Direct association with and dephosphorylation of Jak2 kinase by the SH2-domain-containing protein tyrosine phosphatase SHP-1

SHP-1 is an SH2-containing cytoplasmic tyrosine phosphatase that is widely distributed in cells of the hematopoietic system. SHP-1 plays an important role in the signal transduction of many cytokine receptors, including the receptor for erythropoietin, by associating via its SH2 domains to the receptors and dephosphorylating key substrates. Recent studies have suggested that SHP-1 regulates the function of Jak family tyrosine kinases, as shown by its constitutive association with the Tyk2 kinase and the hyperphosphorylation of Jak kinases in the motheaten cells that lack functional SHP-1. We have examined the interactions of SHP-1 with two tyrosine kinases activated during engagement of the erythropoietin receptor, the Janus family kinase Jak-2 and the c-fps/fes kinase. Immunoblotting studies with extracts from mouse hematopoietic cells demonstrated that Jak2, but not c-fes, was present in anti-SHP-1 immunoprecipitates, suggesting that SHP-1 selectively associates with Jak2 in vivo. Consistent with this, when SHP-1 was coexpressed with these kinases in Cos-7 cells, it associated with and dephosphorylated Jak2 but not c-fes. Transient cotransfection of truncated forms of SHP-1 with Jak2 demonstrated that the SHP-1-Jak2 interaction is direct and is mediated by a novel binding activity present in the N terminus of SHP-1, independently of SH2 domain-phosphotyrosine interaction. Such SHP-1-Jak2 interaction resulted in induction of the enzymatic activity of the phosphatase in in vitro protein tyrosine phosphatase assays. Interestingly, association of the SH2n domain of SHP-1 with the tyrosine phosphorylated erythropoietin receptor modestly potentiated but was not essential for SHP-1-mediated dephosphorylation of Jak2 and had no effect on c-fes phosphorylation. These data indicate that the main mechanism for regulation of Jak2 phosphorylation by SHP-1 involves a direct, SH2-independent interaction with Jak2 and suggest the existence of similar mechanisms for other members of the Jak family of kinases. They also suggest that such interactions may provide one of the mechanisms that control SHP-1 substrate specificity.
Passively assembled optical interconnection system based on an optical printed-circuit board

We propose a passively assembled chip-to-chip optical interconnection system using fiber-optic technology. To demonstrate the system, three components were prepared: a fiber-embedded optical printed-circuit board (OPCB), optical transmitter/receiver modules, and 90/spl deg/-bent fiber connectors. All components were assembled using precise guide pins and holes so that complete passive alignment was achieved in the OPCB. An optical link of 5-Gb/s/ch signals with a total link loss of -1.5 dB has been successfully demonstrated from the assembled system.
Mycobacteriosis in Pigs – An Underrated Threat

Abstract Although Mycobacterium avium subspecies are generally not considered food pathogens, the infections caused by these particular nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) can represent a serious threat to immunocompromised population. Additionally, infections with a member of Mycobacterium Avium Compex (MAC) can affect the efficiency of BCG vaccines used for the humans. In infected animals, M. avium may be present in different tissues without apparent clinical symptoms and macroscopic lesions. Veterinary meat inspection would then fail to recognize infected animals and such meat and meat products thereof could enter the human diet. The aim of this paper is also to analyze the current control policy in Europe according to infections of pigs with the members of MAC, and point out the risks for public health. By analyzing a large number of meat samples and other dietary nutrients, different groups of authors have provided evidence to support the hypothesis that M. avium is present in the everyday environment. Therefore, food as a source of infection with mycobacteria should not be ignored. The control of mycobacteria requires a better diagnostic approach, having in mind recent positive cases of M. avium subspecies hominissuis (MAH) in an increasing number of exported pigs from EU countries to Serbia. The introduction of reliable diagnostic methods for MAH could result in decreasing the occurrence of infection in pigs, as well as in humans, having in mind that WHO reported 10 million new cases of tuberculosis-mycobacteriosis in the human population in 2015 with 21% of these cases occurring in immunocompromised individuals and children.
Radiologic imaging of acute pancreatitis

Background. Acute pancreatitis comprises a broad spectrum of inflammatory changes in the gland and has a variety of causes. The most common are alcoholism and biliary tract disease. This paper discusses the current concepts of diagnosis and the relationship between morphology as depicted by imaging, pancreatic function tests and treatment planning. Conclusions. Our understanding of the morphologic changes produced by the inflammatory process has expanded in the last decade as more sophisticated imaging techniques have been used for evaluation.
Tryptophan fluorescence monitors structural changes accompanying signalling state formation in the photocycle of photoactive yellow protein

Photoactive yellow protein, a small, water-soluble blue-light absorbing photoreceptor protein from Ectothiorhodospira ( Halorhodospira ) halophila has a structure with two hydrophobic cores, of which the main one houses its light-sensitive chromophore ( p -coumaric acid), separated by a central β-sheet. This photoreceptor protein contains a single tryptophan residue (W119) that is situated at the interface between the central β-sheet and its N-terminal cap. The fluorescence properties of W119 in the dark state pG ( λ _max = 328 nm; Φ _fl = 0.01; nearly pH-independent) are typical for a buried tryptophan in a hydrophobic environment with significant quenching by nearby amino acid residues. Signalling state formation leads to pH-dependent fluorescence changes: At pH values <6.5 the fluorescence emission increases, with a minor blue shift of the emission maximum. Above this pH, the emission maximum of the tryptophan shifts considerably to the red, whereas its total intensity decreases. These results further support the contention that signalling state formation in PYP leads to significant changes in the structure of this protein, even at sites that are at a considerable distance from the chromophore. The nature of these changes in pB, however, depend upon the pH imposed upon the protein: At slightly alkaline pH, which presumably is closest to the pH to which this protein is exposed in vivo , these changes lead to an exposure of the part of the central β-sheet harbouring W119. At slightly acidic pH the polarity of the environment of W119 is hardly affected by the formation of the signalling state but the quenching of its fluorescence emission, possibly by nearby amino acids, is reduced. On the other hand, its accessibility for quenching by small molecules in the solution is enhanced at acidic and alkaline pH in the signalling state (pB) compared to the dark state (pG). This latter observation points towards a more flexible structure of the N-terminal cap, having a looser interaction with the central β-sheet in pB.
Iatrogenic Intradural Lumbosacral Cyst Following Epiduroscopy

We report a rare complication of iatrogenic spinal intradural following minimally invasive extradural endoscopic procedues in the lumbo-sacral spines. To our knowledge, intradural cyst following epiduroscopy has not been reported in the literature. A 65-year-old woman with back pain related with previous lumbar disc surgery underwent endoscopic epidural neuroplasty and nerve block, but her back pain much aggravated after this procedure. Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging revealed a large intradural cyst from S1-2 to L2-3 displacing the nerve roots anteriorly. On T1 and T2-weighted image, the signal within the cyst had the same intensity as cerebrospinal fluid. The patient underwent partial laminectomy of L5 and intradural exploration, and fenestration of the cystic wall was accomplished. During operation, the communication between the cyst and subarachnoid space was not identified, and the content of the cyst was the same as that of cerebrospinal fluid. Postoperatively, the pain attenuated immediately. Incidental durotomy which occurred during advancing the endoscope through epidural space may be the cause of formation of the intradural cyst. Intrdural cyst should be considered, if a patient complains of new symptoms such as aggravation of back pain after epiduroscopy. Surgical treatment, simple fenestration of the cyst may lead to improved outcome. All the procedures using epiduroscopy should be performed with caution.
The Effect of Exposure Time on Maximum Acceptable Dose for Avoidance of Ultraviolet Radiation-Induced Cataract

The effect of exposure time on maximum acceptable dose (MAD) for avoidance of ultraviolet radiation B (UVRB)-induced cataract was investigated. Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 5 exposure time groups: 7.5, 15, 30, 60, and 120 min. Each exposure time group was divided into 5 dose subgroups: 0, 1, 2, 4, and 8 kJ/m2. The rats were unilaterally exposed to UVR around 300 nm. One week after the exposure, macroscopic structure was recorded and lens forward light scattering was measured. MAD for avoidance of UVRB-induced cataract was estimated based on the dose-response function. MAD for avoidance of UVRB-induced cataract for 7.5, 15, 30, 60, and 120 min exposures was estimated to be 2.0, 1.4, 1.9, 1.8 and 2.2 kJ/m2, respectively. In the exposure time domain 7.5–120 min, MAD for avoidance of UVRB-induced cataract depends on exposure time.
REACTIVITY OF LYMPHOCYTES FROM GERMFREE RATS IN MIXED LEUKOCYTE CULTURE AND IN GRATT-VERSUS-HOST REACTION

The reactivity of lymphoid cells from germfree and conventional CDF rats were compared in mixed leukocyte culture (MLC) with both allogeneic rat leukocytes and with human leukocytes as stimulating cells, and in a graft-versus-host (GVH) assay. There was no difference between germfree and conventional rats in any of these systems. Furthermore, the increase in GVH activity after specific immunization against a strong histocompatibility antigen was small in both cases. The findings are incompatible with the hypothesis that the high proportion of antigen-sensitive cells against strong histocompatibility antigens is caused by cross-reactions between microbial antigens and histocompatibility antigens.
Suppression of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 replication by CD8+ cells: evidence for HLA class I-restricted triggering of cytolytic and noncytolytic mechanisms

Although CD8+ lymphocytes in human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1)-infected individuals have been demonstrated to suppress viral replication, the mechanisms of inhibition have not been defined precisely. A large body of evidence indicates that these cells act via soluble inhibitory factors, but the potential role of HLA class I-restricted cytolysis has remained controversial. Here we demonstrate that HIV-1-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) mediate antiviral suppression by both cytolytic and noncytolytic mechanisms. The predominant mechanism requires direct contact of CTL with the infected cells, is HLA class I restricted, and can achieve complete elimination of detectable virus in infected cell cultures. Inhibition occurs even at high multiplicities of infection or at ratios of CTL to CD4 cells as low as 1:1,000. The other mechanism is mediated by soluble inhibitory factors which are triggered in an antigen-specific and HLA-restricted fashion but then act without HLA restriction. These include MIP-1alpha, MIP-1beta, and RANTES, as well as a distinct factor(s) capable of inhibiting HIV-1 strains insensitive to these chemokines. These data indicate that HIV-1-specific CTL are potent mediators of HIV-1 suppression at cell ratios existing in vivo and demonstrate an antigen-specific trigger for CD8+ cell-derived soluble inhibitory factors. These results suggest that CTL play an important role in the observed antiviral activity of CD8+ cells from infected individuals.
Oral immunization: an update

Purpose of review Oral immunization with vaccines against intestinal infectious diseases has been extensively explored for several decades. Despite the immunologic and economic rationale behind oral immunization, only a few mucosal vaccines are available for the prevention of mucosal infections. Here, we summarize the current status of such vaccines, with a focus on intestinal infectious diseases, describe alternative approaches, and analyze advantages and difficulties encountered with a broad implementation of these vaccines. Recent findings Due to the limited absorption from the intestinal tract and sensitivity to degradation, oral vaccines composed of killed bacteria and viruses or antigens isolated from infectious agents have not been successful. New, live-attenuated bacterial and viral or edible plant-derived vaccines, however, have been recently introduced for this purpose. Furthermore, systemic immunization with vaccines composed of bacterial polysaccharides chemically coupled to suitable protein carriers induces high levels of IgG antibodies, which may provide immunity toward Salmonella typhi, Shigella, and Escherichia coli. Summary Further improvements in antigen-delivery systems, the development of adjuvants that are safe for mucosal application in humans, use of live-attenuated vaccines and microbial vectors, and production of certain vaccines in plant expression systems are likely to contribute to the broader use of oral vaccines in the future.
Model identification and validation for translational movements of an octorotor UAV

This paper presents preliminary results on a complete translational system modeling and identification of a coaxial counter-rotating X8 octorotor. The objective is to assess the applicability of the widely-used quadrotor model to the coaxial eight-rotor aircraft. A real and representative model of the UAV is necessary to develop simulation tools for validation and to predict the system behavior. A series of tests were conducted with the X8 in flight when performing movements in the x, y and z directions. The model is simulated and validated offline in a MATLAB environment using real data.
FROM OPEN GEOGRAPHICAL DATA TO TANGIBLE MAPS: IMPROVING THE ACCESSIBILITY OF MAPS FOR VISUALLY IMPAIRED PEOPLE

Visual maps must be transcribed into (interactive) raised-line maps to be accessible for visually impaired people. However, these tactile maps suffer from several shortcomings: they are long and expensive to produce, they cannot display a large amount of information, and they are not dynamically modifiable. A number of methods have been developed to automate the production of raised-line maps, but there is not yet any tactile map editor on the market. Tangible interactions proved to be an efficient way to help a visually impaired user manipulate spatial representations. Contrary to raised-line maps, tangible maps can be autonomously constructed and edited. In this paper, we present the scenarios and the main expected contributions of the AccessiMap project, which is based on the availability of many sources of open spatial data: 1/ facilitating the production of interactive tactile maps with the development of an open-source web-based editor; 2/ investigating the use of tangible interfaces for the autonomous construction and exploration of a map by a visually impaired user.