Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Preparation and characterization of flurbiprofen-loaded poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) microspheres

Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) microspheres containing flurbiprofen were prepared by an oil-in-water emulsion solvent evaporation method, in order to develop a particulate drug delivery system for localized administration. A response surface method (RSM) using a central composite design was employed to evaluate the effect of the poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) (%, w/v) concentration in the aqueous phase and the PHBV concentration in the organic phase (%, w/v) on some of the resulting microspheres properties. The response variables were the encapsulation efficiency (EE), the mean particle size, the width of particle size distribution (expressed by the SPAN value) and the required time for the in vitro release of 50% of the encapsulated drug (t50%). Second-order polynomial and linear equations were fitted to experimental data and were also used to interpret the results. Results indicated that the concentration of the stabilizer (PVA) showed a highly negative effect on the EE probably due to the increased drug solubility in the aqueous phase as a result of the higher PVA concentrations. Particle diameter mean size increased with the increased polymer concentration while the width of the particle size distribution was found to decrease with the increase of the stabilizer agent. Finally, results indicated that none of the investigated variables presented a significant effect on the t50% values.
A Primate's Memoir: A Neuroscentist's Unconventional Life Among the Baboons

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Review: Winery wastewater quality and treatment options in Australia

Commercial production of wine results in the generation of large volumes of wastewater, which typically contains large amounts of organic material and salts as a result of product loss and cleaning processes. The treatment and management of this waste stream is of significant concern, especially considering increasing environmental restrictions. There are numerous treatment options available for the management of wastewaters, which vary with respect to efficacy, cost and reliability. This review presents a summary of these treatment options, and describes the mechanism of each process, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of their use within the wine industry. The current knowledge of winery wastewater (WWW) composition and current and emerging management and/or treatment options are described, within an Australian context. Firstly WWW composition is discussed, and then both established and emerging physicochemical and biological treatment options reviewed, and options for disposal/re‐entry to the environment considered. Knowledge gaps and a way forward are presented in conclusion, and focus primarily on research in areas relating to WWW composition, and effects of WWW application on soil and plant health.
Evidence that GABA ρ subunits contribute to functional ionotropic GABA receptors in mouse cerebellar Purkinje cells

Ionotropic γ‐amino butyric acid (GABA) receptors composed of heterogeneous molecular subunits are major mediators of inhibitory responses in the adult CNS. Here, we describe a novel ionotropic GABA receptor in mouse cerebellar Purkinje cells (PCs) using agents reported to have increased affinity for ρ subunit‐containing GABAC over other GABA receptors. Exogenous application of the GABAC‐preferring agonist cis‐4‐aminocrotonic acid (CACA) evoked whole‐cell currents in PCs, whilst equimolar concentrations of GABA evoked larger currents. CACA‐evoked currents had a greater sensitivity to the selective GABAC antagonist (1,2,5,6‐tetrahydropyridin‐4‐yl)methylphosphinic acid (TPMPA) than GABA‐evoked currents. Focal application of agonists produced a differential response profile; CACA‐evoked currents displayed a much more pronounced attenuation with increasing distance from the PC soma, displayed a slower time‐to‐peak and exhibited less desensitization than GABA‐evoked currents. However, CACA‐evoked currents were also completely blocked by bicuculline, a selective agent for GABAA receptors. Thus, we describe a population of ionotropic GABA receptors with a mixed GABAA/GABAC pharmacology. TPMPA reduced inhibitory synaptic transmission at interneurone–Purkinje cell (IN–PC) synapses, causing clear reductions in miniature inhibitory postsynaptic current (mIPSC) amplitude and frequency. Combined application of NO‐711 (a selective GABA transporter subtype 1 (GAT‐1) antagonist) and SNAP‐5114 (a GAT‐(2)/3/4 antagonist) induced a tonic GABA conductance in PCs; however, TPMPA had no effect on this current. Immunohistochemical studies suggest that ρ subunits are expressed predominantly in PC soma and proximal dendritic compartments with a lower level of expression in more distal dendrites; this selective immunoreactivity contrasted with a more uniform distribution of GABAAα1 subunits in PCs. Finally, co‐immunoprecipitation studies suggest that ρ subunits can form complexes with GABAA receptor α1 subunits in the cerebellar cortex. Overall, these data suggest that ρ subunits contribute to functional ionotropic receptors that mediate a component of phasic inhibitory GABAergic transmission at IN–PC synapses in the cerebellum.
The Limits of Organic Life in Planetary Systems

Copyright © National Academy of Sciences. All rights reserved. Unless otherwise indicated, all materials in this PDF file are copyrighted by the National Academy of Sciences. Distribution or copying is strictly prohibited without permission of the National Academies Press <http://www.nap. edu/permissions/>. Permission is granted for this material to be posted on a secure password-protected Web site. The content may not be posted on a public Web site. ISBN: 0-309-66906-5, 116 pages, 8.5 x 11, (2007)
Label-free molecular imaging and discrimination of stem cells by Raman micro-spectroscopy

This thesis is focused on the development of Raman micro-spectroscopy for label free imaging and discrimination of stem cells. The thesis is divided into six chapters. Chapter 1 gives an overview of the existing techniques used for molecular analysis of cells, with emphasis on methods that allow non-invasive label-free imaging. A literature review of the main relevant applications of Raman micro-spectroscopy for imaging cells was also included. Chapter 2 discusses the basic theoretical principles of Raman scattering and design of Raman micro-spectrometers. The practical aspects related to the design of an optimised Raman micro-spectrometer are presented in Chapter 3 along with experimental characterisation of its performance. The chapter concludes with examples of Raman spectral maps of endothelial cells. Chapter 4 and Chapter 5 present experimental results obtained by Raman micro-spectroscopy for molecular analysis of live neural and mesenchymal stem cells. In these investigations Raman spectroscopy was used to identify, image and quantify spectral markers for label-free discrimination between glial cells and their neural progeny. The potential of Raman micro-spectroscopy to measure timecourse molecular changes of individual bone nodules was demonstrated in Chapter 5. Future work and final conclusion are discussed in Chapter six of this thesis.
Untersuchungen zur Vorhersage der nativen Orientierung von Protein-Komplexen mit Fourier-Korrelationsmethoden

This work describes the development of the protein docking program analyzing it’s performance to predict protein structures from both parts of cocrystallized structures and from individually crystallized protein structures. The approach is based on a method introduced by Katchalski-Katzir et al. (1992) which accelerates the calculation of the correlation between two protein surfaces by transforming the discretized grid representation into Fourier space prior to the actual calculation of the correlation. By rotating one of the proteins at fixed angle
Colloids as Big Atoms

Under the right circumstances, colloidal particles can exhibit the same behavior as atoms or molecules. In his Perspective, Poon discusses the report in the same issue by Aarts et al. on their studies of colloid-polymer mixtures that simulate the interface between a liquid and a vapor. Thermal energy naturally excites capillary waves at the interface, and the experimental colloid-polymer system provides a novel way to study these excitations. The use of a colloid means that phenomena too small to be directly observed in conventional systems can be seen with an optical microscope, thus offering a new route to studying interfacial dynamics.
Single Molecule Studies of Myosin-Ib

Myosin-Is are the single-headed, membrane-associated members of the myosin superfamily that are found in many eukaryotic cells. These actin-based motors have been shown to play important roles in powering membrane dynamics, defining cytoskeletal structure, and regulating mechanical signal-transduction. However, many molecular details of myosin-I function are not known. My goal has been to determine the mechanical and kinetic properties of a myosin-I isoform (myo1b) as it undergoes its force-generating power stroke under physiological tension and when external mechanical loads are applied to it. We therefore characterized the force dependence of myo1b splice isoforms using an optical trap and a novel isometric force clamp. Myo1b is alternatively spliced within the regulatory domain of the molecule, yielding motors that have “lever-arms” with different lengths. We found the actin-attachment kinetics of all myo1b splice isoforms to be highly force sensitive, with forces of < 2 pN decreasing the rate of actin detachment > 75 fold. However, we found that the magnitude of the tension sensitivities depend on the splice isoform. Therefore, we propose that the tension sensing properties of myo1b are transcriptionally regulated. Finally, we found the tension sensitivity of myo1b to be regulated by calcium, such that micromolar calcium concentrations effectively uncouple the myosin active site from lever arm rotation. Taken together, this work supports a model in which myosin-Is play roles in generating and sustaining membrane tension, and that the mechanochemical properties of this protein are regulated by alternative splicing and calcium. Degree Type Dissertation Degree Name Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Graduate Group Biochemistry & Molecular Biophysics First Advisor E. Michael Ostap
Effects of climate variability on the carbon dioxide, water, and sensible heat fluxes above a ponderosa pine plantation in the Sierra Nevada (CA)

Fluxes of CO2, water vapor, and sensible heat were measured by the eddy covariance method above a young ponderosa pine plantation in the Sierra Nevada Mountains (CA) over two growing seasons (1 June–10 September 1997 and 1 May–30 October 1998). The Mediterranean-type climate of California is characterized by a protracted summer drought, with precipitation occurring mainly from October through May. While drought stress increased continuously over both summer growing seasons, 1998 was wetter and cooler than average due to El Niño climate patterns and 1997 was hotter and drier than average. One extreme 3-day heat wave in 1997 (Days 218–221) caused a step change in the relationship between H 2O flux and vapor pressure deficit, resulting in a change in canopy conductance, possibly due to cavitation of the tree xylem. This step change was also correlated with decreased rates of C sequestration and evapotranspiration; we estimate that this extreme climatic event decreased gross ecosystem production (GEP) by roughly 20% (4 mmol C m−2 s−1) for the rest of the growing season. In contrast, a cooler, wetter spring in 1998 delayed the onset of photosynthesis by about 3 weeks, resulting in roughly 20% lower GEP relative to the spring of 1997. We conclude that the net C balance of Mediterranean-climate pine ecosystems is sensitive to extreme events under low soil moisture conditions and could be altered by slight changes in the climate or hydrologic regime. ©2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.
Evaluation of loose deposits in distribution systems through: unidirectional flushing

The objective of this project was to evaluate the extent of loose deposit accumulation in distribution systems in three Canadian cities to determine optimal flushing frequency. Unidirectional flushing was used to remove the deposits. The results obtained were found to be highly system‐dependant. The normalized mass of flushed deposits varied from less than 0.1 g/m (0.03 g/ft) to approximately 40 g/m (12 g/ft). For the range of velocities attained during flushing (0.65–2.3 m/s [2.1–7.6 fps]), the quantity of collected deposits was not a function of velocity. Analysis of the composition of the deposits confirmed the specificity of each water system. In all systems, the major fraction was iron corrosion compounds (38–72%), but organic matter (14–24%) and silicoaluminum compounds (7–16%) were also found to account for an important part of the deposits. Microbiological analyses revealed concentrations of total bacteria of approximately 1010 bacteria/g, but the presence of total coliforms was limited to 1.2% of the samples (n = 258).
Using near Infrared Spectroscopy for Rapid Quantification of Sediment Dust in the Indoor Environment

The aim of this study was to develop and apply a novel sensitive technique, using near infrared (NIR) reflectance spectroscopy in the 1250–2400 nm region, to account for small amounts of sediment dust that settle on indoor surfaces. In order to quantitatively characterise the dust loading process and to determine the range of applicability, two composition mixture models, representing homogeneity (talc powder) and heterogeneity [dust analogue: Environmental Protected Agency (EPA) dust] of chemical compounds, were examined. A wind tunnel was constructed in order to quantitatively characterise the dust-loading process in a simulated environment. The influence of total mass loaded and the sensitivity of spectral measurements were tested. Based on the significant results in the simulated environment, a field study was conducted in different indoor environments in the Tel-Aviv area. Multivariate data analysis based on partial least squares regression was run to predict the dust loads solely from reflectance data. Different spectral manipulations were tested. The relative standard error for validation sets accepted for indoor dust was found to be low (11.5%). We conclude that this methodology can be employed to assess dust in an indoor environment for small and relatively high dust content (ranging between 0.01 mg cm−2 to 0.51 mg cm−2 for artificial mixtures and between 0.02 mg cm−2 to 0.45 mg cm−2 for field study, respectively).
ISOLATION AND PURIFICATION OF SOY ISOFLAVONES FROM SOYBEAN EXTRACTS BY ADSORPTION CHROMATOGRAPHY ON 12% CROSS-LINKED AGAROSE GEL MEDIA

A chromatographic method for isolation and purification of soy isoflavones from soybean extracts was established by using 12% cross-linked agarose gel, Superose 12, as the separation media. 30% and 65% methanol in gradient elution mode was employed for separation. Soybean extracts were separated by the proposed method and six soy isoflavones, including glycitin, daidzin, genistin, glycitein, daidzein, and genistein, were obtained. The purity of these compounds was 97.8%, 98.5%, 99.4%, 99.0%, 98.8%, 99.2%, respectively, which was determined by HPLC area normalization method. The retention behavior of soy isoflavones on Superose 12 was also discussed. The retention is based on a mixture of hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions between the hydroxyl groups of soy isoflavones and the residues of the cross-linking reagents used in the manufacturing process of Superose 12.
Seeing the light: The effects of particles, dissolved materials, and temperature on in situ measurements of DOM fluorescence in rivers and streams

Field‐deployable sensors designed to continuously measure the fluorescence of colored dissolved organic matter (FDOM) in situ are of growing interest. However, the ability to make FDOM measurements that are comparable across sites and over time requires a clear understanding of how instrument characteristics and environmental conditions affect the measurements. In particular, the effects of water temperature and light attenuation by both colored dissolved material and suspended particles may be significant in settings such as rivers and streams. Using natural standard reference materials, we characterized the performance of four commerciallyavailable FDOM sensors under controlled laboratory conditions over ranges of temperature, dissolved organic matter (DOM) concentrations, and turbidity that spanned typical environmental ranges. We also examined field data from several major rivers to assess how often attenuation artifacts or temperature effects might be important. We found that raw (uncorrected) FDOM values were strongly affected by the light attenuation that results from dissolved substances and suspended particles as well as by water temperature. Observed effects of light attenuation and temperature agreed well with theory. Our results show that correction of measured FDOM values to account for these effects is necessary and feasible over much of the range of temperature, DOM concentration, and turbidity commonly encountered in surface waters. In most cases, collecting high‐quality FDOM measurements that are comparable through time and between sites will require concurrent measurements of temperature and turbidity, and periodic discrete sample collection for laboratory measurement of DOM.
Determination of salt content in raw beef burger using microwave technique.

The information on salt content in processed food is important for public knowledge such as in food labelling and regulations which can be used for health assessment and consumer protection. Chemical analysis is normally used to obtain an accurate measurement of the salt content but this analytical method is time consuming and requires special equipment with expensive cost. This type of analysis is considered as invasive and destructive. Microwave sensor can provide rapid online and non destructive technique for the determination of salt content in processed food. A dielectric probe method was used to measure the dielectric properties of raw meat burger with salt content from 0.5 – 5% at 200 MHz – 10 GHz frequencies. At lower frequencies, the results obtained show a linear relationship between both the dielectric constant and dielectric loss with the salt content of the raw burger. The standard error of prediction (SEP) for percentage of salt content from dielectric properties measurement was 0.11% of the dielectric constant model equation and 0.12% of the dielectric loss model equation. Plots of dielectric properties against salt content showed good potential for the methods to be accurately calibrated.
Electron Diffraction in the Transmission Electron Microscope

Ch 1. DIFFRACTION AND THE ELECTRON MICROSCOPE. How a lens forms a diffraction pattern. Introduction to diffraction in the TEM. Selected-area diffraction pattern in the TEM. Low- (or small-) angle diffraction. Limitations to the accuracy of selected-area diffraction. Diffraction using small probes. Spatial resolution. Problems with specimens. Obtaining and recording a selected-area diffraction pattern in the TEM. Obtaining a CBED pattern. Alignments that are important for diffraction. Ch 2. THE RECIPROCAL LATTICE AND BRAGG'S LAW. Electrons as waves. Interference of waves. Bragg's law. The reciprocal lattice. Diffraction patterns from polycrystalline materials. Diffraction patterns from amorphous materials. Systematic absences. Standard patterns. Computer indexing of electron diffraction patterns. ' Calibration of the camera constant. Calibration of the rotation between the image and the diffraction pattern. Using electron diffraction to identify unknown phases. Exercises. Ch 3. THE REFLECTING SPHERE. The reflecting sphere. Obtaining orientation relationships. Determining habit and composition planes. Exercises. Ch 4. FINDING YOUR WAY AROUND RECIPROCAL SPACE: KIKUCHI DIFFRACTION. How Kikuchi lines form. The determination of the deviation parameters. Kikuchi maps and their uses. Finding the exact orientation of the crystal. Exercises. Ch 5. THE INTENSITIES OF REFLECTIONS. The atomic scattering amplitude, f. The structure factor, Fhkl. The kinematic and dynamical theories of electron diffraction. Exercises. Ch 6. DETERMINATION OF THE BRAVAIS LATTICE, POINT GROUP AND SPACE GROUP. Determination of the crystal system from conventional electron diffraction patterns. Convergent-beam methods. Exercises. Ch 7. THE FINE STRUCTURE IN ELECTRON DIFFRACTION PATTERNS. Double diffraction. Diffraction from small particles. Diffraction from ordered structures. Periodic and modulated structures. Planar and linear defects. Thermal diffuse scattering. Exercises.
ANALYTICAL SOLUTIONS OF SUPERDIRECTIVITY FOR CIRCULAR ARRAYS WITH ACOUSTIC VECTOR SENSORS

Sensor arrays with superdirectivity are more attractive than conventional sensor arrays in many applications such as sonar, radar, and audio engineering, because they have good performance in terms of angular discrimination, bearing estimation accuracy, and noise suppression ability with a relatively much smaller aperture. A superdirectivity theory termed the eigenbeam decomposition and synthesis theory has been previously proposed for circular pressure sensor arrays. This paper applies this theory in circular vector sensor arrays, which aims to achieving better performance than both superdirective pressure sensor arrays and conventional vector sensor arrays. For simplicity, each sensor of the circular arrays considered only consists of one pressure channel and one particle velocity channel. It is found that the optimal beampattern, global optimum directivity factor, and total error sensitivity function can be accurately expressed as the sum of eigenbeams, sum of their directivity factors, and sum of their sensitivity functions, respectively, with the use of the circulant property of the spatial crosscorrelation matrix and the inverse of block matrix. Because the robustness of different eigenbeams are different, a reduced-order technique similar to that proposed for circular pressure sensor arrays can also be used to achieve robust superdirectivity for circular vector sensor arrays. The comparisons between circular pressure sensor arrays with circular vector sensor arrays show that the capability of the latter arrays in improving directivity is better than that of the former arrays.