cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Activation of an H2O2-generating NADH Oxidase in Human Lung Fibroblasts by Transforming Growth Factor β1

The cellular source(s) and mechanisms of generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in nonphagocytic cells stimulated by cytokines are unclear. In this study, we demonstrate that transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-beta 1, 1 ng/ml) induces the release of H2O2 from human lung fibroblasts within 8 h following exposure to this cytokine. Elevation in H2O2 release peaked at 16 h (approximately 22 pmol/min/10(6) cells) and gradually declined to undetectable levels at 48 h after TGF-beta 1 treatment. NADH consumption by these cells was stimulated by TGF-beta 1 while that of NADPH remained unchanged. NADPH oxidase activity as measured by diphenyliodonium (DPI)-inhibitable NADH consumption in TGF-beta 1-treated cells followed a time course similar to that of H2O2 release. DPI, an inhibitor of the NADPH oxidase complex of neutrophils and other flavoproteins, also inhibited the TGF-beta 1-induced H2O2 production. Inhibitors of other enzymatic systems involving flavoproteins that may be responsible for the production of H2O2 in these cells, including xanthine oxidase, nitric oxide synthase, and both mitochondrial and microsomal electron transport systems, failed to inhibit TGF-beta 1-induced NADH oxidation and H2O2 production. The delay (> 4 h) following TGF-beta 1 exposure along with the inhibition of this process by cycloheximide and actinomycin D suggest the requirement of new protein synthesis for induction of NADH oxidase activity in TGF-beta 1-stimulated fibroblasts.
Space charge effects on multipactor on dielectric

This paper analyzes the effects of space charge shielding on the steady state of multipactor discharge on a dielectric. Analytic methods are used to obtain an exact function for the potential in the discharge, assuming a Maxwellian distribution of emitted electrons. An equation for the amount of power deposited on the dielectric by the multipactoring electrons, for a given saturation level is given. A simple method for obtaining the saturation level, for a given material, is obtained.
Recrystallization of nickel-270

Abstract Nickel-270, a commercially pure nickel, when cold-worked through reductions in area of 10 to 94%, displays slight recovery hardening after annealing in the temperature range 200° to 300°C. The 30-minute recrystallization temperatures are in the range 290 to 400°C and are inversely proportional to the degree of prior cold work. The time dependence of recrystallization in specimens deformed 94% yields an apparent activation energy of about 40 kcal/mole, which is in better agreement with that for zone-refined nickel than with that for substantially less pure nickel.
Unequivocal synthesis of 2,3,6-triazaphenothiazine and two new tetraazaphenothiazine heterocycles

This paper describes the unequivocal synthesis of three new heterocycles: 2, 3, 6-triazaphenothiazine (7) and 2, 3, 6, 9-tetraazaphenothiazine (18), both parents of the respective ring systems and the 6, 8-dihydro-7, 9-di-oxo derivative of 2, 3, 6, 8-tetrahydrophenothiazine (12). These compounds were obtained by base-catalysed condensation of 4, 5-dichloropyridazine (8) with the appropriate o-amino-heterocyclic thiols 9, 11, 16. In contrast, reaction of 2, 3, 5-trichloropyrazine (20) with 4, 6-diaminopyrimidine-5-thiol (21) and 2-amino-6-picoline-3-thiol (28) gave 5-chloro-2, 3-bis(diaminopyrimidinyl-5-thio)pyrazine (33) and 5-chloro-2, 3-bis(2-amino-6-picolinyl-3-thio)pyrazine (29), respectively. Chloropyrazine (34) and 3-aminopyridine-2(1H)-thione (9) followed the latter reaction path to 2-(3-amino-2-pyridyl) pyrazinyl sulfide (35) in good yields. Structural assignments were based on their infrared, ultraviolet, nmr and mass spectra.
Identification of uniparental disomy in phenotypically abnormal carriers of isochromosomes or Robertsonian translocations

Carriers of either homologous or non-homologous acrocentric rearrangements are at an increased risk for aneuploidy, and, thus, for uniparental disomy (UPD). Abnormal phenotypes due to genomic imprinting are associated with UPD for the acrocentric chromosomes 14 and 15. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of UPD in a population with acrocentric rearrangements (either an isochromosome or a Robertsonian translocation) and abnormal phenotypes. Fifty individuals were studied. Of the 50 rearrangements, two were homologous rearrangements and both showed UPD. Forty-eight were non-homologous Robertsonian translocations, of which two showed UPD. This study demonstrates that UPD explains the abnormal phenotypes in some balanced carriers of acrocentric rearrangements. Our results and the large number of case reports in the literature suggest that patients with abnormal phenotypes and acrocentric rearrangements of chromosomes 14 or 15 should be tested for UPD.
Vesicular stomatitis virus inhibits mitotic progression and triggers cell death

Vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) infects and kills a wide range of cell types; however, the mechanisms involved in VSV-mediated cell death are not fully understood. Here we show that VSV infection interferes with mitotic progression, resulting in cell death. This effect requires the interaction of VSV matrix (M) protein with the Rae1–Nup98 complex in mitosis, which is associated with a subset of ribonucleoproteins (RNPs). VSV displaced Rae1 from spindle poles, caused spindle abnormalities and triggered substantial cell death during metaphase. These effects were attenuated in cells infected with VSV expressing a mutant M protein that does not bind efficiently to the Rae1–Nup98–RNP complex. In cells that progressed to late mitosis, M protein prevented proper nuclear formation and chromatin decondensation. VSV is an oncolytic (anti-tumour) agent as it preferentially replicates and kills tumour cells. As tumour cells have a high mitotic index, VSV-mediated mitotic cell death probably contributes to its oncolytic activity.
Generating functions for enumerating self-avoiding rings on the square lattice

It is shown that generating function techniques provide an efficient means of enumerating the number of self-avoiding rings (polygons) on the square lattice. The techniques can be applied to a number of related problems in lattice statistics and statistical mechanics. The enumeration has been extended to polygons of up to 38 steps.
Research and the Family Farm: Implications for Agricultural Economics Research: Discussion

Lee Day has done a courageous job, and as good a job as one can reasonably expect, in addressing this topic. The subject, inherently, is monstrously large; very ill-defined; and is a value-loaded, explicitly acknowledged cornerstone of U.S. farm policy. Day treated the subject wisely by addressing himself to a limited number of points-whether there is a slanting of experiment station research to the benefit of large farms, the economies of farm size, and agriculture and the community. Day said as much as could be said about these points within the constraints on the paper. Because the discussant believes the above statements, this discussion will offer views of two additional dimensions that bear on both family farms and agricultural economics research. One of these dimensions consists of the consideration of basic definitional properties of family farms and a few of their implications for agricultural economic monitoring and research. The other is an expression of concern on my part over the apparent neglect, by economists, of activities involving the development and selection of advanced new biological/technological management systems in agriculture.
Integrin α6β4 Controls the Expression of Genes Associated with Cell Motility, Invasion, and Metastasis, Including S100A4/Metastasin

The integrin α6β4 is associated with carcinoma progression by contributing to apoptosis resistance, invasion, and metastasis, due in part to the activation of select transcription factors. To identify genes regulated by the α6β4 integrin, we compared gene expression profiles of MDA-MB-435 cells that stably express integrin α6β4 (MDA/β4) and vector-only-transfected cells (MDA/mock) using Affymetrix GeneChip® analysis. Our results show that integrin α6β4 altered the expression of 538 genes (p < 0.01). Of these genes, 36 are associated with pathways implicated in cell motility and metastasis, including S100A4/metastasin. S100A4 expression correlated well with integrin α6β4 expression in established cell lines. Suppression of S100A4 by small interference RNA resulted in a reduced capacity of α6β4-expressing cells to invade a reconstituted basement membrane in response to lysophosphatidic acid. Using small interference RNA, promoter analysis, and chromatin immunoprecipitation, we demonstrate that S100A4 is regulated by NFAT5, thus identifying the first target of NFAT5 in cancer. In addition, several genes that are known to be regulated by DNA methylation were up-regulated dramatically by integrin α6β4 expression, including S100A4, FST, PDLIM4, CAPG, and Nkx2.2. Notably, inhibition of DNA methyltransferases stimulated expression of these genes in cells lacking the α6β4 integrin, whereas demethylase inhibitors suppressed expression in α6β4 integrin-expressing cells. Alterations in DNA methylation were confirmed by bisulfate sequencing, thus suggesting that integrin α6β4 signaling can lead to the demethylation of select promoters. In summary, our data suggest that integrin α6β4 confers a motile and invasive phenotype to breast carcinoma cells by regulating proinvasive and prometastatic gene expression.
Minimization of immunosuppression after lung transplantation: current trends.

Summary This paper reviews efforts that have been made to minimize immunosuppression in lung transplant patients. A brief history of tolerance and its potential application to lung transplantation is also discussed.
Preconcentration of proteins on microfluidic devices using porous silica membranes.

Fluorescently labeled proteins were electrophoretically concentrated on microfabricated devices prior to separation and laser-induced fluorescence detection on the same device. The proteins were concentrated using a porous silica membrane between adjacent microchannels that allowed the passage of buffer ions but excluded larger migrating molecules. Concentrated analytes were then injected into the separation column for analysis. Two basic microchip designs were tested that allowed sample concentration either directly in the sample injector loop or within the microchannel leading from the sample reservoir to the injector. Signal enhancements of ∼600-fold were achieved by on-chip preconcentration followed by SDS−CGE separation. Preconcentration for CE analysis in both coated and uncoated open channels was also demonstrated. Fluorescently labeled ovalbumin could be detected at initial concentrations as low as 100 fM by using a combination of field-amplified injection and preconcentration at a membrane prior ...
Immunocytochemical characterizationof intrarenal adrenal tissue

Heterotopic adrenal tissue has been reported in multiple sites, but its functionality has seldom been assessed. In this case, immunocytochemistry was used to characterize adrenocortical tissue present in the subcapsular region of a nephrectomy specimen and to determine its potential for steroidogenesis. Immunodetectable cytochrome P450scc was detectable in the adrenal gland, but not in the renal tissue, clarifying the demarcation between the two tissue types. The high level of this key enzyme in steroid synthesis in the adrenocortical cells suggested that they were capable of producing steroids.
Tuning Micellization and Dissociation Transitions of Thermo- and pH-Sensitive Poly(ethylene oxide)-b-poly(methoxydi(ethylene glycol) methacrylate-co-methacrylic acid) in Aqueous Solution by Combining Temperature and pH Triggers

We report in this article on the active control of multiple micellization and dissociation transitions of thermo- and pH-sensitive water-soluble block copolymers, poly(ethylene oxide)-b-poly(methoxydi(ethylene glycol) methacrylate-co-methacrylic acid) (PEO-b-P(DEGMMA-co-MAA)), in aqueous solutions by combining temperature and pH triggers. Two block copolymers and one random copolymer P(DEGMMA-co-MAA) were prepared by atom transfer radical polymerization of a mixture of methoxydi(ethylene glycol) methacrylate (DEGMMA) and tert-butyl methacrylate (t-BMA) with a molar ratio of 100: 13 from a PEO macroinitiator and a small molecule initiator, respectively, and subsequent removal of t-butyl group. PDEGMMA is a thermosensitive water-soluble polymer exhibiting a lower critical solution temperature in water at 25 °C. The cloud point of P(DEGMMA-co-MAA) in water can be readily tuned from 24 to 60 °C by changing the solution pH. The block copolymers dissolved molecularly in cold aqueous buffer solutions with a pH o...
Reputation premiums in electronic peer-to-peer markets: analyzing textual feedback and network structure

Web-based systems that establish reputation are central to the viability of many electronic markets. We present theory that identifies the different dimensions of online reputation and characterizes their influence on the pricing power of sellers. We provide evidence that existing, numeric reputation scores conceal important seller-specific dimensions of reputation and we validate our theory further by proposing a new text mining technique that identifies and quantitatively evaluates further dimensions of importance in reputation profiles. We also suggest that the buyer-seller network contains critical reputation information that we can further exploit to improve the design of a reputation mechanism. Our experimental evaluation validates the predictions of our model using a new data set containing over 12,000 transactions for consumer software on Amazon.com's online secondary marketplace. This paper is the first attempt to integrate econometric methods and text and link mining techniques towards a more complete analysis of the information captured by reputation systems, and it presents new evidence of the importance of their effective and judicious design.
Psalm 58: Curse As Voiced Disorientation

SummaryA close reading of Psalm 58, focusing particularly on its stylistic features, reveals the centrality of God's presence to his people in the midst of injustice and evil. In spite of its imprecatory language, Psalm 58 is a song of God's saving activity and a celebration of justice. A powerful seven-fold curse full of rich yet horrific images calls out for the disempowerment of the wicked. The Hebrew text, together with significant text-critical notes, along with a critical translation, colometric division and examination of stylistic features constitutes the first part of the article. The structuring and non-structuring elements of the poem lead us to its primary theological purpose which is discussed in the second half of the article. Placing Psalm 58 within the context of the lament genre, the purpose of its difficult words is examined. In line with authors such as W. Brueggemann and C. Stuhlmueller an attempt is made to surface the significance of formal language of violence in the search for theo...
Coma bullae: associations beyond medications.

A 49-year-old man with a history of anterior scleritis who was receiving maintenance azathioprine therapy presented with ecchymoses and bullous lesions that had developed 2 weeks previously on the bilateral lower extremities. The patient reported that the lesions were intially small blisters that had progressed to large painful hemorrhagic bullae. He had no history of intravenous drug use, high-risk sexual behavior, or tobacco abuse. Findings on physical examination were notable for anterior scleritis, cyanotic fingers, and bilateral 2+ lower extremity edema with numerous well-demarcated bullous lesions that had a hemorrhagic fluid-filled appearance. A complete blood cell count and metabolic profile were normal; urinalysis revealed trace hematuria. Skin biopsy demonstrated vascular thrombi with sweat gland necrosis consistent with coma bullae. Computed tomography of the chest revealed scattered, well-circumscribed pulmonary nodules. Serologic testing confirmed a positive cytoplastic antineutrophilic cytoplasmic antibody titer of 1:160 with anti-proteinase 3 antibodies. Renal biopsy was consistent with Wegener granulomatosis, and treatment was initiated with intravenous methylprednisolone and cyclophosphamide. At 4-month follow-up, the patient's renal function was normal, and he had no further complications. Coma bullae are commonly associated with use of opiates, tricyclic antidepressants, and antipsychotics. They have also been observed in patients with chronic renal failure, hypercalcemia, diabetic ketoacidosis, and a variety of neurologic conditions. The skin lesions usually resolve in 2 to 4 weeks, but early recognition and treatment of the underlying condition are crucial. Etiology of these pathogenic lesions is broad, should be based on the clinical presentation, and should include autoimmune disorders such as Wegener granulomatosis.
Auger and radiative recombination of acceptor bound excitons in semiconductors

Abstract We report on a theoretical and experimental study of acceptor bound exciton recombination. We present calculations of phononless Auger and radiative recombination in direct and indirect band gap materials. We consider hydrogenic acceptors in the direct band gap material Hg 1− x Cd x Te in which the band gap can be varied by changing alloy composition. We present calculations of the Auger transition rate and no-phonon oscillator strengths for the common acceptors in Si and Ge. We have measured the bound exciton lifetimes and no-phonon oscillator strengths for the acceptors in Si and find reasonable agreement with the calculated values.
A comparison of U.S. and Japanese analysts' forecasts of earnings and sales

Abstract This study finds that Japanese analysts provide superior forecasts of sales when compared to their U.S. counterparts. Their relative superiority could not be attributed to any timing advantage with regard to forecasting. Instead, the results suggest that Japanese analysts have an informational advantage over their U.S. counterparts. Selected proxies for the information environment were used to explain the Japanese analyst's forecast superiority over his/her U.S. counterpart. Results showed support for the hypotheses. Specifically, they showed that as the number of lines of business and domestic affiliates (firm size) increased, the relative sales forecast accuracy of the Japanese analyst also increased (decreased). Interestingly, no differences were observed between the two analyst groups in forecasting earnings. These results have important implications for policy on harmonization of accounting standards.
Interaction between Cell Division Proteins FtsE and FtsZ

FtsE and FtsX, which are widely conserved homologs of ABC transporters and interact with each other, have important but unknown functions in bacterial cell division. Coimmunoprecipitation of Escherichia coli cell extracts revealed that a functional FLAG-tagged version of FtsE, the putative ATP-binding component, interacts with FtsZ, the bacterial tubulin homolog required to assemble the cytokinetic Z ring and recruit the components of the divisome. This interaction is independent of FtsX, the predicted membrane component of the ABC transporter, which has been shown previously to interact with FtsE. The interaction also occurred independently of FtsA or ZipA, two other E. coli cell division proteins that interact with FtsZ. In addition, FtsZ copurified with FLAG-FtsE. Surprisingly, the conserved C-terminal tail of FtsZ, which interacts with other cell division proteins, such as FtsA and ZipA, was dispensable for interaction with FtsE. In support of a direct interaction with FtsZ, targeting of a green fluorescent protein (GFP)-FtsE fusion to Z rings required FtsZ, but not FtsA. Although GFP-FtsE failed to target Z rings in the absence of ZipA, its localization was restored in the presence of the ftsA* bypass suppressor, indicating that the requirement for ZipA is indirect. Coexpression of FLAG-FtsE and FtsX under certain conditions resulted in efficient formation of minicells, also consistent with an FtsE-FtsZ interaction and with the idea that FtsE and FtsX regulate the activity of the divisome.
Whole-body temperature gradients under surface, perfusion, and combined surface/perfusion hypothermia.

Abstract Using various methods of hypothermia and halothane-diethyl ether azeotrope anesthesia whole-body temperature gradients were evaluated in 20 adult mongrel dogs. Simultaneous measurements were taken of brain, rectal, esophageal, pharyngeal, liver, jugular vein, shoulder muscle, thigh muscle, and subcutaneous temperatures during (i) surface, (ii) perfusion (slow and rapid cooling), and (iii) combined surface/perfusion methods of hypothermia. Throughout cooling and rewarming core temperature gradients averaged 1.2 °C and during circulatory arrest core temperatures decreased an average of 0.3 °C under pure surface hypothermia. Animals, thermoregulated by extracorporeal methods only, developed larger core temperature gradients during cooling and a significant increase (average = 3.1 °C) was noted in core temperatures during circulatory arrest. This pattern was particularly pronounced during rapid perfusion cooling. Hypothermia induction by combined surface/perfusion, in contrast to pure perfusion methods, resulted in smaller gradients without remarkable increase in core temperature (average = 1.3 °C) during the arrest period. These findings when correlated with the shorter total operating time and ease of operative management and resuscitation lead us to the conclusion that combined surface/ perfusion hypothermia techniques have certain advantages over either pure surface or pure perfusion techniques alone.
The separate roles of plant cis and trans prenyl transferases in cis-1,4-polyisoprene biosynthesis.

In plants, the elongation of cis-1,4-polyisoprene (natural rubber, Mr > 106) requires a small trans-allylic diphosphate (≦C20) initiator. The trans-allylic diphosphates are hydrophilic cytosolic compounds, whereas cis-1,4-polyisoprene is hydrophobic and compartmentalised in subcellular rubber particles. In this paper, it is demonstrated that soluble trans-prenyl transferase from latex of Hevea brasiliensis functions solely as farnesyl diphosphate synthase, and plays no direct role in cis-1,4-polyisoprene elongation. The cis-1,4-prenyl transferase is firmly associated with the H. brasiliensis rubber particle, as is also the case in other rubber-producing species [Archer, B. L., Audley, B. G., Cockbain, E. G. & McSweeney, G. P. (1963) Biochem. J. 89, 565–574; Madhavan, S., Greenblatt, G. A., Foster, M. A. & Benedict, C. R. (1989) Plant Physiol. 89, 506–511; Siler, D. J. & Cornish, K. (1993) Phytochemistry 32, 1097–1102]. The experimental data explain and refute previous reports in which soluble trans-prenyl transferase isolated from H. brasiliensis latex was attributed both trans-prenyl transferase and cis-prenyl transferase activities [Light, D. R. & Dennis, M. S. (1989) J. Biol. Chem. 264, 18589–18597; Light, D. R., Lazarus, R. A. & Dennis, M. S. (1989) J. Biol. Chem. 264, 18598–18607]. Thus, it appears that plant prenyl transferases are comparable to animal enzyme systems in which trans-prenyl transferases are soluble enzymes whilst cis-prenyl transferases are membranebound [Ericcson, J., Runquist, M., Thelin, A., Andersson, M., Chojnacki, T. & Dallner, G. (1992) J. Biol Chem. 268, 832–838].
Autoverification in a Laboratory Information System

The automatic release of results from clinical instruments via algorithms running in a laboratory information system (LIS) may improve efficiency, reduce overall turnaround time, and be accomplished within current regulatory frameworks. There are a number of issues that need to be taken into account prior to implementing such a process. Capabilities of the instrumentation in terms of validity of results, error flags, data management, and transmission remain a concern. Some analyzers may be easier or more difficult to link to an autoverification algorithm. The abil
Optimal experimental design for a class of bandit problems

a b s t r a c t Bandit problems are a class of sequential decision-making problems that are useful for studying human decision-making, especially in the context of understanding how people balance exploration with exploitation. A major goal of measuring people’s behavior using bandit problems is to distinguish between competing models of their decision-making. This raises a question of experimental design: How should a set of bandit problems be designed to maximize the ability to discriminate between models? We apply a previously developed design optimization framework to the problem of finding good bandit problem experiments, and develop computational sampling schemes for implementing the approach. We demonstrate the approach in a number of simple cases, varying the priors on parameters for some standard models. We also demonstrate the approach using empirical priors, inferred by hierarchical Bayesian analysis from human data, and show that optimally designed bandit problems significantly enhance the ability to discriminate between competing models.
Latin Verb Forms

These forms would result regularly from the longer forms, audivisti , etc. The v drops out between two like vowels, and these then contract immediately (cf. divitis > ditis ). Both the long and the short forms are used, but the intervening forms audiisti , etc., do not occur in early Latin, just as diitis is not found. (This is the ordinary explanation, and quite sufficient, but see under Class 5.)
Enhancing Maize Germplasm with Resistance to Aflatoxin Contamination

Preharvest kernel infection by Aspergillus flavus and the subsequent accumulation of aflatoxin in maize grain are chronic problems in the southeastern United States. Aflatoxin is a natural carcinogen, and its presence markedly reduces the value of grain. Losses to aflatoxin contamination reach devastating levels some years. Development and deployment of maize hybrids with resistance to aflatoxin contamination is generally considered the most feasible method of reducing or eliminating the problem. Research to address the aflatoxin problem was initiated by USDA–ARS at Mississippi State, MS, in the late 1970s. The goals of the research were to identify and develop aflatoxin‐resistant maize germplasm. First, reliable techniques for screening germplasm were developed. Then, germplasm from numerous sources was screened. The release of Mp313E in 1988 was the first release of maize germplasm with resistance to aflatoxin contamination. Two other germplasm lines, Mp420 and Mp715, were released in 1991 and 1999, res...
TLR2 deletion promotes arthritis through reduction of IL‐10

RA is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the persistent expression of inflammatory cytokines from macrophages, which may be mediated, in part, through TLR2 signaling. Earlier studies demonstrate a role for TLR2 signaling in dampening the arthritis in IL-1Ra-/- mice, which was mediated through T cells. This study was performed to determine whether TLR2 signaling plays a role in the pathogenesis of T cell-independent arthritis triggered by transferring serum from K/BxN mice. We documented more severe arthritis in Tlr2-/- mice compared with WT controls. The Tlr2-/- mice also demonstrated increased inflammation, erosion, pannus formation, and osteoclastogenesis, as well as increased IL-1β and decreased IL-10 within the joints. In vitro bone marrow-differentiated macrophages expressed comparable levels of activating and inhibitory FcγRs, however when stimulated with immune complexes, the Tlr2-/- macrophages expressed decreased IL-10 and reduced activation of Akt and ERK. Our findings indicate that Tlr2-/- promotes the effector phase of arthritis through decreased IL-10 by macrophages, which is important, not only as an anti-inflammatory cytokine but also in restraining the differentiation and activation of osteoclasts.
On-chip global clock distribution using directional rotary traveling-wave oscillator

We revisit the rotary clock scheme in [1], and firstly propose and analyze the multiple-mode operations of rotary clock structure, which can be utilized to generate multiple clock frequencies within one loop. By replacing original inverter pairs with feed-forward differential buffers and adding U-shape T-line segments, a novel rotary clock scheme is presented to guarantee the directionality of traveling wave in the closed-loop. Design tradeoffs and methodologies are discussed for this novel directional rotary clock and a 3.3GHz, 30pF loading rotary clock design example is given. The simulation results show that, the proposed directional rotary clock can at least reduce 34% power compared with fCV2, and achieve lower power dissipation and sharper rising-edge compared with the conventional rotary clock in [1].
Erythrocyte membrane sulfhydryl groups and the active transport of cations

Parachloromercuribenzenesulfonate (PCMBS) has two opposing effects on the influx of Rb+ into red blood cells. The ouabain-insensitive component, indicative of passive permeability of the membrane to cations, is increased whereas the ouabain-sensitive or active transport component is inhibited. The increased passive permeability is paralleled by the action of PCMBS on net K+ efflux into a K+-free medium. Inhibibition of active transport of Rb+ is paralleled by the inhibitory action of PCMBS on net Na+ efilux from Na+-rich cells. Both effects are reversed rapidly by the penetrating sulfhydryl compound, cysteine, and considerably more slowly by the non-penetrating sulfhydryl compound, ovalbumin. Measurements of PCMBS binding and of elution in the presence of cysteine and albumin indicate that only a fraction of the total sulfhydryl groups of the membrane is involved in either the effect on permeability or transport, and that the affected groups are located within the interior of the membrane.
Composite spatial indexing of regional habitat importance

Indexing and mapping of co-occurrence for multiple species is central to many analyses of conservation needs, ecosystem health, and community composition. Species richness is often used because of its simplicity and interpretability, but a variety of ecologically based weighting schemes for species have been developed for special purposes such as determining biotic integrity. This work is concerned with indexing a balance between common and uncommon species for preliminary assessments of conservation needs. A Regional Habitat Importance Index is constructed in a manner that provides joint ordering of species and landscapes. The index lends emphasis to species having a scarcity of habitat over a region, low representation in conservation areas, and shortage of opportunity for expanding protection. Application of the index is illustrated for mammals and birds in the context of GAP Analysis for the state of Pennsylvania, USA.
Afterlife for silicon: CMOL circuit architectures

This is a brief review of our recent work on architectures for the prospective hybrid CMOS/nanowire/ nanodevice ("CMOL") circuits including digital memories, reconfigurable Boolean-logic circuits, and mixed-signal neuromorphic networks. The basic idea of CMOL circuits is to combine the advantages of CMOS technology (including its flexibility and high fabrication yield) with the extremely high potential density of molecular-scale two-terminal nanodevices. Relatively large critical dimensions of CMOS components and the "bottom-up" approach to nanodevice fabrication may keep CMOL fabrication costs at affordable level. At the same time, the density of active devices in CMOL circuits may be as high as 10/sup 12/ cm/sup 2/ and that they may provide an unparalleled information processing performance, up to 10/sup 20/ operations per cm/sup 2/ per second, at manageable power consumption.
M.A.S.S.: A Model for Producing Transfer

Transfer is the application in the workplace of the knowledge, skills and attitudes learned in training. With transfer, trainers hope to link training to increased job performance. However, training alone will not produce transfer. To affect job performance as a result of training, trainers must intentionally promote transfer using a variety of strategies based on known principles of human performance technology. The MASS model, presented in this paper, brings together four of these principles. According to the MASS model, trainers who promote transfer (and who thereby become performance technologists) 1) Motivate trainees to learn and use the training material; 2) increase trainees' Awareness of when to use new skills and ideas; 3) enable trainees to master and to apply Skills; and 4) give trainees psychological and physical Support on the job. When performance technologists follow the MASS model, they can expect to produce trainees who apply at work what they have been taught in training. Use of the model is illustrated with two examples.
Constitutive and induced expression of DC-SIGN on dendritic cell and macrophage subpopulations in situ and in vitro.

DC-SIGN is a C-type lectin, highly expressed on the surface of immature dendritic cells (DCs), that mediates efficient infection of T cells in trans by its ability to bind HIV-1, HIV-2, and SIV. In addition, the ability of DC-SIGN to bind adhesion molecules on surfaces of naive T cells and endothelium also suggests its involvement in T-cell activation and DC trafficking. To gain further insights into the range of expression and potential functions of DC-SIGN, we performed a detailed analysis of DC-SIGN expression in adult and fetal tissues and also analyzed its regulated expression on cultured DCs and macrophages. First, we show that DC-SIGN expression is restricted to subsets of immature DCs in tissues and on specialized macrophages in the placenta and lung. There were no overt differences between DC-SIGN expression in adult and fetal tissues except that DC-SIGN expression in alveolar macrophages was only present after birth. Similarly, in tissues, DC-SIGN was observed primarily on immature (CD83-negative) DCs. Secondly, in the peripheral blood, we found expression of DC-SIGN on a small subset of BDCA-2+ plasmacytoid DC precursors (pDC2), concordant with our finding of large numbers of DC-SIGN-positive cells in allergic nasal polyps (previously shown to be infiltrated by DC2). Triple-label confocal microscopy indicated that DC-SIGN was colocalized with BDCA-2 and CD123 on DCs in nasal polyp tissue. Consistent with this finding is our observation that DC-SIGN can be up-regulated on monocyte-derived macrophages upon exposure to the Th2 cytokine, IL-13. In summary, our data demonstrate the relevant populations of DC and macrophages that express DC-SIGN in vivo where it may impact the efficiency of virus infection and indicate that DC-SIGN expression may be involved in the Th2 axis of immunity.
Genetic Analysis of Slipper/Mixed Lineage Kinase Reveals Requirements in Multiple Jun-N-Terminal Kinase-Dependent Morphogenetic Events During Drosophila Development

Mixed lineage kinases (MLKs) function as Jun-N-terminal kinase (JNK) kinase kinases to transduce extracellular signals during development and homeostasis in adults. slipper (slpr), which encodes the Drosophila homolog of mammalian MLKs, has previously been implicated in activation of the JNK pathway during embryonic dorsal epidermal closure. To further define the specific functions of SLPR, we analyzed the phenotypic consequences of slpr loss and gain of function throughout development, using a semiviable maternal-effect allele and wild-type or dominant-negative transgenes. From these analyses we confirm that failure of dorsal closure is the null phenotype in slpr germline clones. In addition, there is a functional maternal contribution, which can suffice for embryogenesis in the zygotic null mutant, but rarely suffices for pupal metamorphosis, revealing later functions for slpr as the maternal contribution is depleted. Zygotic null mutants that eclose as adults display an array of morphological defects, many of which are shared by hep mutant animals, deficient in the JNK kinase (JNKK/MKK7) substrate for SLPR, suggesting that the defects observed in slpr mutants primarily reflect loss of hep-dependent JNK activation. Consistent with this, the maternal slpr contribution is sensitive to the dosage of positive and negative JNK pathway regulators, which attenuate or potentiate SLPR-dependent signaling in development. Although SLPR and TAK1, another JNKKK family member, are differentially used in dorsal closure and TNF/Eiger-stimulated apoptosis, respectively, a Tak1 mutant shows dominant genetic interactions with slpr, suggesting potential redundant or combinatorial functions. Finally, we demonstrate that SLPR overexpression can induce ectopic JNK signaling and that the SLPR protein is enriched at the epithelial cell cortex.
Fast and adaptive bidimensional empirical mode decomposition using order-statistics filter based envelope estimation

A novel approach for bidimensional empirical mode decomposition (BEMD) is proposed in this paper. BEMD decomposes an image into multiple hierarchical components known as bidimensional intrinsic mode functions (BIMFs). In each iteration of the process, two-dimensional (2D) interpolation is applied to a set of local maxima (minima) points to form the upper (lower) envelope. But, 2D scattered data interpolation methods cause huge computation time and other artifacts in the decomposition. This paper suggests a simple, but effective, method of envelope estimation that replaces the surface interpolation. In this method, order statistics filters are used to get the upper and lower envelopes, where filter size is derived from the data. Based on the properties of the proposed approach, it is considered as fast and adaptive BEMD (FABEMD). Simulation results demonstrate that FABEMD is not only faster and adaptive, but also outperforms the original BEMD in terms of the quality of the BIMFs.
Diagnosis of Periprosthetic Infection: Novel Developments

The diagnosis of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) has been performed by obtaining a history and physical examination, blood tests, and analysis of the synovial fluid and tissue samples. The measurement of serum biomarkers are routinely used to diagnose PJI. These markers may be elevated in other inflammatory conditions, necessitating the need for more specific biomarkers to diagnose PJI. Serum biomarkers may be more specific to PJI. Synovial CRP, α-defensin, human β-defensin-2 and -3, leukocyte esterase, and cathelicidin LL-37 biomarkers hold promise for the diagnosis of PJI.
Beyond Cost-Benefit Analysis: A Pragmatic Reorientation

The weaknesses of cost-benefit analysis (CBA) are apparent for all to see. The theoretical underpinnings of positivism and rational choice methodologies have been dealt a significant blow in the post-positivist literature in science, political science and policy studies. Likewise, the performance of CBA itself has been the subject of a significant and persuasive challenge in the legal literature. This article critiques specifically the current federal form of regulatory impact analysis (RIA), centered institutionally in OIRA and centered methodologically in CBA. One of reasons for the continuing dominance of a CBA-centered RIA is the success of its proponents in maintaining that there is no viable alternative. As a general matter, this argument has been discredited in a substantial policy science and post-positivist literature that is based on Harold Laswell's ideas and ambitions for a policy sciences of democracy. Until now, however, no specific proposal for an alternative to a CBA-centered RIA process has been put forward in the legal literature. Our preference for a Laswellian approach to regulatory analysis is pragmatic - it will work better in informing decision-makers and citizens about the actual issues that must be resolved. In our alternative to CBA, the RIA process is problem-oriented, normative, discursive, and transparent. This reorientation eschews the use of CBA, except where it is legally required, because it is unnecessary and irrelevant in other contexts, it lacks sufficient accuracy if relevant, and it pursues a normative vision of regulation that is inconsistent with the tilt towards protecting people and the environment that Congress adopted.
Vision-Based Vehicle Counting with High Accuracy for Highways with Perspective View

Vehicle detection by motion is still a common method used in vision-based tracking systems due to vehicles’ continuous motion on highways. However, counting accuracy is affected for highways with perspective view due to long-time merging (i.e. blob merging or occlusion) events. In this work, a new way of vehicle counting with high accuracy using two appearance-based classifiers is proposed to detect merging situations and handle vehicle counts. Experimental results on three Las Vegas highways with differing perspective views and congestion difficulties show improvement in counting and general applicability of the proposed method. Moreover, tracking and counting results of a highly cluttered highway indicates greater counting improvement (89 % to 94 %) for highly congested situations.
Magnetoresistance Measurements on Boron-Doped and Undoped Ni3Al Thin Films

Magnetoresistance measurements were performed in magnetic fields up to 5 T, to examine the effects of boron doping on the electron transport properties of Ni3Al thin (500 A, nominal, thickness) films. Both a doped (~200 ppm B) and undoped film were investigated. Four-probe magnetoresistance (magnetic field = 50 G and 5 T) measurements indicate that both samples undergo a phase transition in the 200 K - 300 K temperature range.
Molecular Dosimetry of Endogenous and Exogenous O6-Methyl-dG and N7-Methyl-G Adducts Following Low Dose [D3]-Methylnitrosourea Exposures in Cultured Human Cells

For DNA-reactive chemicals, a low dose linear assessment of cancer risk is the science policy default. In the present study, we quantitated the endogenous and exogenous N7-methyl-G and O6-methyl-dG adducts in human lymphoblastoid cells exposed to low dose [D3]-methylnitrosourea. Endogenous amounts of both adducts remained nearly constant, while the exogenous adducts showed linear dose-responses. The data show that O6-methyl-dG adducts ≥1.8/108 dG correlated with published studies that demonstrated significant increases of mutations under these conditions. The combined results do not support linear extrapolations to zero when data are available for science-based regulations.
Omega-3 fatty acids and the increased risk of bleeding

U.S. consumers spend more than $6 billion annually on omega-3 fatty acid (n-3FA) dietary supplements and fortified foods, plus another $916 million on prescription fish oil capsules.1 Many n-3FA supplements are available OTC. Two prescription formulations, omega-3-acid ethyl esters (Lovaza—GlaxoSmithKline) and icosapent ethyl (Vascepa— Amarin Pharma), also are currently available.
Apprehensions: On gaining recognition as middle class in Madurai:

In this article, I examine everyday ways in which residents of Madurai, Tamil Nadu work to gain and maintain recognition as middle class. In the intersubjective production of identities, people def...
Bactericidal antibodies to Hemophilus influenzae.

SummaryStudies on the incidence of bactericidal antibodies to a Hemophilus influenzae, Type B, and an unencapsulated H. influenzae were carried out on sera from 130 healthy individuals, ranging in age from 13 to 78, and from 19 chronic bronchitics. Of the 130 sera from normal people only 2 (1.5%) lacked bactericidal antibodies to the H. influenzae, Type B, whereas 21 (16%) lacked bactericidal antibodies to the unencapsulated H. influenzae. All of the 19 sera from the chronic bronchitics were bactericidal for both Hemophilus isolates. All five sera from agammaglobulinemic patients who were on gamma globulin replacement therapy demonstrated bactericidal activity against the H. influenzae, Type B isolate.Utilizing the indirect fluorescent antibody technique, no correlation was apparent between the presence or absence of bactericidal antibodies and antibody levels as measured by immunofluorescence.
Understanding the Needs of International Customers: Applying the Contextual Inquiry Method in Asia

As product markets become more global, companies need to understand their customers around the world. Asia is a growing market, but little information exists that describes how people use their office equipment. We conducted a study to look at how our Asian customers work with paper documents so we would have information to help us make product design decisions. We used the Contextual Inquiry method to collect data during visits with customers in China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Korea. In preparation for our trip, we learned as much as possible about each culture. Following each visit, we modeled the data, and after returning to the United States, we consolidated all the models by country. We collected feedback from team members who represented a number of product development disciplines, and we conducted brainstorming sessions to determine how we might improve our products to meet the needs of our customers. Throughout this paper we describe lessons we learned for conducting contextual inquiry visits in Asi...
Monovalent ion adsorption at the muscovite (001)-solution interface: relationships among ion coverage and speciation, interfacial water structure, and substrate relaxation.

The interfacial structure between the muscovite (001) surface and aqueous solutions containing monovalent cations (3 × 10(-3) m Li(+), Na(+), H(3)O(+), K(+), Rb(+), or Cs(+), or 3 × 10(-2) m Li(+) or Na(+)) was measured using in situ specular X-ray reflectivity. The element-specific distribution of Rb(+) was also obtained with resonant anomalous X-ray reflectivity. The results demonstrate complex interdependencies among adsorbed cation coverage and speciation, interfacial hydration structure, and muscovite surface relaxation. Electron-density profiles of the solution near the surface varied systematically and distinctly with each adsorbed cation. Observations include a broad profile for H(3)O(+), a more structured profile for Li(+) and Na(+), and increasing electron density near the surface because of the inner-sphere adsorption of K(+), Rb(+), and Cs(+) at 1.91 ± 0.12, 1.97 ± 0.01, and 2.26 ± 0.01 A, respectively. Estimated inner-sphere coverages increased from ~0.6 to 0.78 ± 0.01 to ~0.9 per unit cell area with decreasing cation hydration strength for K(+), Rb(+), and Cs(+), respectively. Between 7 and 12% of the Rb(+) coverage occurred as an outer-sphere species. Systematic trends in the vertical displacement of the muscovite lattice were observed within ~40 A of the surface. These include a <0.1 A shift of the interlayer K(+) toward the interface that decays into the crystal and an expansion of the tetrahedral-octahedral-tetrahedral layers except for the top layer in contact with solution. The distortion of the top tetrahedral sheet depends on the adsorbed cation, ranging from an expansion (by ~0.05 A vertically) in 3 × 10(-3)m H(3)O(+) to a contraction (by ~0.1 A) in 3 × 10(-3) m Cs(+). The tetrahedral tilting angle in the top sheet increases by 1 to 4° in 3 × 10(-3) m Li(+) or Na(+), which is similar to that in deionized water where the adsorbed cation coverages are insufficient for full charge compensation.
Incidence of end-stage renal disease in patients with type 1 diabetes was 7.8% at 30 years after diagnosis.

Source Citation Finne P, Reunanen A, Stenman S, et al. Incidence of end-stage renal disease in patients with type 1 diabetes. JAMA. 2005;294:1782-7. 16219881