cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of Structure of Active Compounds on Biological Activity and Specificity

It is probable that the chemical basis of resistance and specificity will be found in part from studies of the interactions of toxins with plants susceptible and resistant to those toxins. The Phytotoxins with the most selective toxicity are the host-specific toxins; these are much more active in altering the metabolism of host plants susceptible to the toxin-producing micro-organism. Many host-specific toxins are unusually potent causing biological effects at concentrations less than 10-10 g/ml. The specificity and potency of these toxins suggest that they efficiently inhibit important biochemical processes in susceptible plants. Resistant plants either lack these pathways or possess mechanisms that protect against the action of the toxin. Elucidation of these resistance mechanisms will greatly increase our knowledge of specificity. Unfortunately the instability and chemical complexity of certain host-specific toxins have complicated mechanism of action studies because of uncertainties about chemical purity and concentration and by making structure determinations very difficult.
A Mathematical Contribution to Gibbs’s Analysis of Fluid Phases in Equilibrium

The pioneering work of Ennio De Giorgi and Herbert Federer in the 1950’s on the structure of sets of finite perimeter laid a mathematical foundation for much of modern geometric measure theory. This contribution to continuum thermodynamics is formulated in this tradition. We here wish to examine possible interpretations of Gibbs’s phase rules for equilibrium in fluid systems of several phases in which surface energies are a dominant component of the relevant free energy. We initially consider a simple model problem in some detail and then briefly discuss more elaborate situations.
Molecular diagnosis of viral disease in hematology patients

Viruses, through their direct and indirect effects on hematopoietic cells, are not only etiological agents of hematologic disease, but they both complicate transfusion therapy and are major causes of morbidity and mortality in immunosuppressed patients. The development of molecular techniques, especially DNA hybridization and amplification, has allowed new viruses to be discovered, has aided in the early diagnosis of infection before the development of an antibody response, and has revolutionized the detection of viruses in blood transfusions.
Conceptualization and Classification

This chapter presents the process of integrating data from multiple methods of assessment and sources of data to generate a data-driven portrait (i.e., conceptualization) of a child’s functioning across multiple domains. The psychoeducational assessment process of integrating data and conceptualizing a child’s functioning is similar to, but likely more data-driven, than the case formulation process within a therapeutic framework. When conceptualizing a child’s functioning it is important to be mindful about straying too far from the data and into the realm of speculation or story creation. Following the presentation of how to conceptualize a child’s functioning, you will be in the position to offer a classification decision that is supported by the data. An example of each type of IDEA classification is presented.
Achieving food security through the very small

Nanotechnology could make agriculture more efficient and more sustainable, but more systematic understanding of the mechanisms involved is necessary to prove the potential of nano-enabled agrochemicals.
Characterizing Robustness and Sensitivity of Convolutional Neural Networks in Segmentation of Fluorescence Microscopy Images

Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) recently have achieved remarkable success in segmentation of biological fluorescence microscopy images. Because many of these networks were developed initially for general computer vison tasks such as object detection and object recognition, it is necessary to characterize their performance to determine how they meet the needs of related biological studies. So far, performance characterization of such networks has focused primarily on segmentation accuracy. It remains unclear how different networks compare in their robustness in handling images of different conditions and their sensitivity in detecting subtle geometrical changes of biological structures. Here, we develop a method that uses realistic synthetic images to characterize the robustness and sensitivity of such networks. We use the method to compare the performance of two widely adopted CNNs: the fully convolutional network (FCN) and the U-Net, in segmentation of complex morphology of mitochondria. We also compare them against an adaptive active-mask algorithm in performance. We find that both networks outperform the adaptive active-mask algorithm in robustness and sensitivity and that U-Net outperforms FCN Overall, our study provides new insights into the performance of CNNs in segmentation of fluorescence microscopy images.
Epidemiology of gastroschisis: A population-based study in California from 1995 to 2012.

Abstract Background Although the incidence of gastroschisis is increasing, risk factors are not clearly identified. Methods Using the Linked Birth Database from the California Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development from 1995 to 2012, patients with gastroschisis were identified by ICD-9 diagnosis/procedure code or birth certificate designation. Logistic regressions examined demographics, birth factors, and maternal exposures on risk of gastroschisis. Results The prevalence of gastroschisis was 2.7 cases per 10,000 live births. Patients with gastroschisis had no difference in fetal exposure to alcohol (p = 0.609), narcotics (p = 0.072), hallucinogenics (p = 0.239), or cocaine (p = 0.777), but had higher exposure to unspecified/other noxious substances (OR 3.27, p = 0.040; OR 2.02, p = 0.002). Gastroschisis was associated with low/very low birthweight (OR 5.08–16.21, p Conclusions This is the largest population-based study summarizing current epidemiology of gastroschisis in California. Type of study Retrospective comparative cohort study. Level of evidence III.
Ultrasensitive quantification of tumor mRNAs in extracellular vesicles with an integrated microfluidic digital analysis chip

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) present a promising liquid biopsy for cancer diagnosis. However, it remains a daunting challenge to quantitatively measure molecular contents of EVs including tumor-associated mRNAs. Herein, we report a configurable microwell-patterned microfluidic digital analysis platform combined with a dual-probe hybridization assay for PCR-free, single-molecule detection of specific mRNAs in EVs. The microwell array in our device is configurable between the flow-through assay mode for enhanced hybridization capture and tagging of mRNAs and the digital detection mode based on femtoliter-scale enzymatic signal amplification for single-molecule counting of surface-bound targets. Furthermore, a dual-probe hybridization assay has been developed to enhance the sensitivity of the digital single-molecule detection of EV mRNAs. Combining the merits of the chip design and the dual-probe digital mRNA hybridization assay, the integrated microfluidic system has been demonstrated to afford quantitative detection of synthetic GAPDH mRNA with a LOD as low as 20 aM. Using this technology, we quantified the level of GAPDH and EWS-FLI1 mRNAs in EVs derived from two cell lines of peripheral primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET), CHLA-9 and CHLA-258. Our measurements detected 64.6 and 43.5 copies of GAPDH mRNA and 6.5 and 0.277 copies of EWS-FLI1 fusion transcripts per 105 EVs derived from CHLA-9 and CHLA-258 cells, respectively. To our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of quantitative measurement of EWS-FLI1 mRNA copy numbers in Ewing Sarcoma (EWS)-derived EVs. These results highlight the ultralow frequency of tumor-specific mRNA markers in EVs and the necessity of developing highly sensitive methods for analysis of EV mRNAs. The microfluidic digital mRNA analysis platform presented here would provide a useful tool to facilitate quantitative analysis of tumor-associated EV mRNAs for liquid biopsy-based cancer diagnosis and monitoring.
16 – Urinary System

The urinary system is responsible for a variety of physiological processes, including osmoregulation, blood pressure and volume regulation, red blood cell production, calcium absorption, toxin metabolism, and excretion. The nephron is the functional unit of the kidney and is composed of the glomerulus and renal tubules. The products of the kidney include urine, the enzyme hormone renin, and the hormones erythropoietin and calcitriol, which is the active form of vitamin D. These common mammalian renal functions, as well as overall gross and histological structure, are similar between mice, rats, and humans. Species differences in renal physiology are reflected in the nephron ratio and number and also the morphology of vascular bundles, renal papillae, and medulla. Rodents, especially males, make highly concentrated urine with a high protein content. Sexual dimorphism may be present in both the rodent kidney. Ultrastructural differences also exist between rodents and humans. Renal size as well as responses to various drugs and compounds can differ significantly depending on rodent sex within and between strains. These potential differences must be considered during study design, interpretation of clinical data, and postmortem evaluations.
Viable Criticisms for the Radical Version of Post Ageing [5.5 and >]

The radical version of the “post ageing” inflection point (and its exemplars) is simply not satisfied with scientific advancements to merely compress morbidity, know about the causes of the how and why of ageing, optimize ageing, or to manipulate and modify only the external environments that surround the ageing individual (e.g., assistive technology)—no, the goals are more monumental with dramatic consequences for just about every sphere of human existence. In our opinion, at the very core of the motivation and operations of SENS, and SENSE, and the possibility of a technological singularity (see Goertzel 2007; Kurzweil 2005) is to move beyond ageing so that the modus operandi in the radical version is to modify, rejuvenate, and transcend (see Harris 2010). The goal is not to simply make the best of what we have, rather it is to make more—and better—than what we have (Garreau 2005). The radical version of post ageing will only be satisfied when scientific advancements and the use of technologies can fully intervene with the internal environment of the human body and address the ultimate “limits” of human finitude and uniqueness (the epitome of intelligence). Indeed, it is the specter of mortality, the presence of death as a natural outcome of human existence that is to be reckoned with assertively, and most decisively through SENS, SENSE, and Singularity.
Email Makes You Sweat: Examining Email Interruptions and Stress Using Thermal Imaging

Workplace environments are characterized by frequent interruptions that can lead to stress. However, measures of stress due to interruptions are typically obtained through self-reports, which can be affected by memory and emotional biases. In this paper, we use a thermal imaging system to obtain objective measures of stress and investigate personality differences in contexts of high and low interruptions. Since a major source of workplace interruptions is email, we studied 63 participants while multitasking in a controlled office environment with two different email contexts: managing email in batch mode or with frequent interruptions. We discovered that people who score high in Neuroticism are significantly more stressed in batching environments than those low in Neuroticism. People who are more stressed finish emails faster. Last, using Linguistic Inquiry Word Count on the email text, we find that higher stressed people in multitasking environments use more anger in their emails. These findings help to disambiguate prior conflicting results on email batching and stress.
The evolution of human skin pigmentation involved the interactions of genetic, environmental, and cultural variables

The primary biological role of human skin pigmentation is as a mediator of penetration of ultraviolet radiation (UVR) into the deep layers of skin and the cutaneous circulation. Since the origin of Homo sapiens, dark, protective constitutive pigmentation and strong tanning abilities have been favored under conditions of high UVR and represent the baseline condition for modern humans. The evolution of partly depigmented skin and variable tanning abilities has occurred multiple times in prehistory, as populations have dispersed into environments with lower and more seasonal UVR regimes, with unique complements of genes and cultural practices. The evolution of extremes of dark pigmentation and depigmentation has been rare and occurred only under conditions of extremely high or low environmental UVR, promoted by positive selection on variant pigmentation genes followed by limited gene flow. Over time, the evolution of human skin pigmentation has been influenced by the nature and course of human dispersals and modifications of cultural practices, which have modified the nature and actions of skin pigmentation genes. Throughout most of prehistory and history, the evolution of human skin pigmentation has been a contingent and non-deterministic process.
Feeding the exceptionally high producing dairy cow

The goal of every dairy herdsman should be to provide the right amount of feed for the right cow at the right time. This should maximize profits while minimizing metabolic problems. The most difficult problem is to change the feeding program of cows from that which meets the needs of dry cows to a program that meets the needs of cows producing at very high levels.
A Philosopher Looks at Architecture

What should our buildings look like? Or is their usability more important than their appearance? Paul Guyer argues that the fundamental goals of architecture first identified by the Roman architect Marcus Pollio Vitruvius - good construction, functionality, and aesthetic appeal - have remained valid despite constant changes in human activities, building materials and technologies, as well as in artistic styles and cultures. Guyer discusses philosophers and architects throughout history, including Alberti, Kant, Ruskin, Wright, and Loos, and surveys the ways in which their ideas are brought to life in buildings across the world. He also considers the works and words of contemporary architects including Annabelle Selldorf, Herzog and de Meuron, and Steven Holl, and shows that - despite changing times and fashions - good architecture continues to be something worth striving for. This new series offers short and personal perspectives by expert thinkers on topics that we all encounter in our everyday lives.
Upscaling and Automation: Pushing the Boundaries of Multiscale Modeling through Symbolic Computing

Macroscopic differential equations that accurately account for microscopic phenomena can be systematically generated using rigorous upscaling methods. However, such methods are time-consuming, prone to error, and become quickly intractable for complex systems with tens or hundreds of equations. To ease these complications, we propose a method of automatic upscaling through symbolic computation. By streamlining the upscaling procedure and derivation of applicability conditions to just a few minutes, the potential for democratization and broad utilization of upscaling methods in real-world applications emerges. We demonstrate the ability of our software prototype, Symbolica, by reproducing homogenized advective–diffusive–reactive (ADR) systems from earlier studies and homogenizing a large ADR system deemed impractical for manual homogenization. Novel upscaling scenarios previously restricted by unnecessarily conservative assumptions are discovered, and numerical validation of the models derived by Symbolica is provided.
Phase Relationships in the Carbon–Titanium–Uranium System for Ultra-High Temperature Nuclear Fuels

Carbides of uranium have attracted interest as fuels for nuclear thermal propulsion (NTP) to drive deep-space exploration owing to their attractive thermal and neutronic properties. Optimization of NTP technology, however, requires ultra-high temperature reactor environments to maximize the ratio of thrust to propellant to achieve peak rocket engine efficiency. Incorporation of transition metals into uranium carbides offers a pathway to increase the melting point of carbide fuels to address the operational challenges posed by NTP. A thermodynamic model has been developed to examine the phase relationships in the C–Ti–U system at NTP conditions. Calculated phase relationships at ultra-high temperatures predict a stable (U, Ti)C solid solution. Additionally, experimental work on C–Ti–U synthesis via arc melting has been carried out, providing data on phase constitution and compositions that can be used to further refine the thermodynamic model that has been developed.
Mitotic Cycle Regulation. I. Oscillations and Bistability

In this case study we examine mathematical models of the molecular regulatory network controlling entry into and exit from mitosis in fertilized frog eggs and in frog-egg extracts. This subject is important because mitotic cell division is at the root of all aspects of organismal growth, development and repair. Furthermore, the molecular mechanisms of mitotic regulation display intriguing commonalities across all taxa of eukaryotes that have been studied in detail. Finally, the physiology and molecular biology of mitotic cycle regulation in frog eggs can be adequately addressed in much simpler terms than, say, the complex regulatory networks in mammalian somatic cells. Nonetheless, what we learn from our investigations of frog eggs reveals some basic control principles of the DNA replication-division cycle in cells of more direct relevance to human health and disease.
The impact of intrinsic alignment on current and future cosmic shear surveys

Intrinsic alignment (IA) of source galaxies is one of the major astrophysical systematics for ongoing and future weak lensing surveys. This paper presents the first forecasts of the impact of IA on cosmic shear measurements for current and future surveys (DES, Euclid, LSST, WFIRST) using simulated likelihood analyses and realistic covariances that include higher-order moments of the density field in the computation. We consider a range of possible IA scenarios and test mitigation schemes, which parameterize IA by the fraction of red galaxies, normalization, luminosity and redshift dependence of the IA signal (for a subset we consider joint IA and photo-z uncertainties). Compared to previous studies we find smaller biases in time-dependent dark energy models if IA is ignored in the analysis; the amplitude and significance of these biases vary as a function of survey properties (depth, statistical uncertainties), luminosity function, and IA scenario: Due to its small statistical errors and relatively shallow observing strategy Euclid is significantly impacted by IA. LSST and WFIRST benefit from their increased survey depth, while the larger statistical errors for DES decrease IA's relative impact on cosmological parameters. The proposed IA mitigation scheme removes parameter biases due to IA for DES, LSST, and WFIRST even if the shape of the IA power spectrum is only poorly known; successful IA mitigation for Euclid requires more prior information. We explore several alternative IA mitigation strategies for Euclid; in the absence of alignment of blue galaxies we recommend the exclusion of red (IA contaminated) galaxies in cosmic shear analyses. We find that even a reduction of 20% in the number density of galaxies only leads to a 4-10% loss in cosmological constraining power.
Corporate Citizenship in überregionalen Netzwerken

Die Globalisierung hat im Konzept der nachhaltigen Entwicklung ihr programmatisches Echo gefunden. Wachsende Erwartungen der Politik und der Zivilgesellschaft richten sich dabei auf die Unternehmen, insbesondere die Global Player. Ohne ihre Kreativitat und ihre Leistungsfahigkeit bleibt Nachhaltigkeit ein Torso okologischer und sozialer Wunschvorstellungen. Angste vor der Globalisierung verleiten dazu, Unternehmen unter einen notorischen Generalverdacht des Sozial- und Umweltdumpings zu stellen. Individuelle Unternehmen, ganze Branchen und letztlich die gesamte international tatige Wirtschaft suchen daher ihre „licence to operate“ nicht nur durch die Einhaltung der gesetzlichen Regeln - durch Good Corporate Governance — sondern durch eine positive Kommunikation mit allen Stakeholdern zu sichern.
SU-E-T-102: An Efficient Method to Quantitatively Detect Sub-Millimeter MLC Bank Alignment Errors Using a Well-Known QA Device

Purpose: To introduce an ultra-sensitive procedure that can detect and quantify systematic MLC bank alignment error down to 0.2 mm or less. The procedure takes only 5 minutes to run and employs the familiar MapCheck2 device. Methods: Elekta iCOM v13.0 was used to create and deliver a modified 4-Quadrant field on the Elekta Infinity Linac. The 2D dose distribution was collected on the MapCheck2, at 100 Source-Detector-Distance with no external buildup. Using SNC Patient v6.2.3 this planar dose was compared against a reference planar dose established preferably right after commissioning or the most recent Annual QA. To obtain baseline results and tolerance levels leaf bank alignment shifts ranging from −1.0 mm (in-field) to +1 mm (out-of-field) in 0.1 mm increment were intentionally induced. Each shifted field is matched against a reference field with zero shift. A Y-profile through the CAX, perpendicular to MLC traveling direction, was selected in the software. Percentage dose differences at selected points on this profile were recorded. The mean dose differences were then plotted against the corresponding shift distances. Results: The test is extremely sensitive in picking up MLC alignment error. Shift down to 0.2 mm can be easily detected. Furthermore, the relationship between dose deviations and MLC bank alignment errors is shown to be quite linear. For our setup, each 0.1 mm shift in MLC bank would Result in approximately 2.7% dose deviation from baseline. Based on this Result, monthly QA tolerance level at was set at +/−7%, which translates roughly to 0.25 mm in alignment error. Conclusion: A novel method to quantify MLC alignment error was introduced. The test is short, simple yet very effective. It’s been implemented clinically as part of our institution monthly machine QA.
ELASTODYNAMIC EFFECTS ON CRACK ARREST

The first part of the paper is concerned with the elastodynamic stress field in the vicinity of a rapidly propagating crack tip. Elastodynamic stress intensity factors and their role in the fracture criterion of the balance of rates of energies are discussed. The remainder of the paper deals with the near-tip stress field for a sudden discontinuous change of the speed of a rapidly propagating crack tip, including the case that the crack tip is suddenly arrested. Analytical expressions are derived for the elastodynamic stress intensity factor, for the case that the crack tip speed instantaneously changes from c1 to C2, where c2 is less than c1. Arrest, or continued propagation of crack tip at a reduced speed are investigated on the basis of the fracture criterion of the balance of rates of energies.
Direct measurement of the poliovirus RNA polymerase error frequency in vitro

The fidelity of RNA replication by the poliovirus-RNA-dependent RNA polymerase was examined by copying homopolymeric RNA templates in vitro. The poliovirus RNA polymerase was extensively purified and used to copy poly(A), poly(C), or poly(I) templates with equimolar concentrations of noncomplementary and complementary ribonucleotides. The error frequency was expressed as the amount of a noncomplementary nucleotide incorporated divided by the total amount of complementary and noncomplementary nucleotide incorporated. The polymerase error frequencies were very high and ranged from 7 x 10(-4) to 5.4 x 10(-3), depending on the specific reaction conditions. There were no significant differences among the error frequencies obtained with different noncomplementary nucleotide substrates on a given template or between the values determined on two different templates for a specific noncomplementary substrate. The activity of the polymerase on poly(U) and poly(G) was too low to measure error frequencies on these templates. A fivefold increase in the error frequency was observed when the reaction conditions were changed from 3.0 mM Mg2+ (pH 7.0) to 7.0 mM Mg2+ (pH 8.0). This increase in the error frequency correlates with an eightfold increase in the elongation rate that was observed under the same conditions in a previous study.
Conformational studies on modified proteins and peptides: IX. Conformation and immunochemistry of hemoglobin reduced at some carboxyl groups by diborane

Abstract A derivative of apohemoglobin was prepared by reduction with diborane at −10 °C for 2 h. Four aspartate and two glutamate side chains were reduced per half molecule to their corresponding alcohols. The modifications were identified as: α Asp 64 , α - Asp 74 , α - Asp 75 and α Asp 85 ; β - Glu 121 and β - Glu 6 (or β - Glu 7 ). Recombination of reduced apohemoglobin with unmodified ferriheme yielded the corresponding reduced hemoglobin derivative which was electrophoretically homogeneous. Hemoglobin and reduced hemoglobin had different electrophoretic mobilities and showed slight spectral differences. Titration with ferriheme revealed that reduced globin possessed an anomalous heme-binding behavior. The s O 20,w of reduced hemoglobin was slightly higher than that of hemoglobin. Aggregation of the derivative was also apparent from its behavior in gel filtration. ORD and CD measurements indicated substantial conformational differences between hemoglobin and its derivative. Immunochemical studies showed that the derivative reacted poorly with antisera to hemoglobin and, conversely, hemoglobin showed little reaction with antisera to the derivative. The results are discussed in terms of the three-dimensional structure of hemoglobin in the crystalline state and its relationship to the structure in solution.
Response to Christopher Peterson, “The Posthumanism to Come”

When the editors of Angelaki invited me to respond to Christopher Peterson's essay “The Posthumanism to Come,” I told them I’d be happy to, but my response would be fairly brief. The reason is simp...
318 DEFICIENCY OF CORTISOL 11-β-KETOREDUCTASE — METABOLIC DEFECT

A deficiency of cortisol 11-β-ketoreductase was observed in 2 patients with the syndrome of apparent mineralocorticoid excess and no evidence of oversecretion of any known steroid hormone (JCEM 44:924, 1977). The syndrome is characterized by hypertension, hypokalemia and suppressed renin and ACTH despite low secretion of aldosterone, cortisol and other adrenocortical steroids. Excretion of 5-α-reduced cortisol (DHF) is increased in the urinary free steroid fraction (JCEM 44:799, 1977). The 11 ketoreductase deficiency was demonstrated by a markedly elevated ratio of urinary THF/THE (6-10) in the resting state during ACTH and hydrocortisone treatment. In normal children the THF/THE ratio is usually less than 1. The deficiency was further proven by demonstrating an inability to form tritiated water after infusion of 11α3H cortisol. In normal subjects and in the unaffected mother of a patient, 65-80% of 11α3H cortisol appeared as tritiated water. Speculation: In these patients the 11 ketoreductase deficiency produces an impairment of the metabolism of cortisol to cortisone, resulting in a prolonged cortisol half-life, suppression of ACTH and normal serum cortisol concentration. The enzyme defect protects the patient from adrenal insufficiency despite low cortisol secretion and may contribute to hypertension and hyporeninemia because of formation of excess DHF which has mineralocorticoid activity.
Tissue-Engineered Cellular Neotendinous Constructs for Chronic Hernia Repair in a Rat (LB34)

Objective: Over 200,000 incisional hernia repairs are performed each year in the United States at a cost of over $2.5 billion. Currently, hernias are repaired using either alloplastic meshes or sof...
Interplay Between Pion Absorption and Inclusive-Inelastic Scattering on Hydrogen and Helium Isotopes for 96.5-MeV Kinetic Energy Pions

Measurements of double-differential cross sections for inclusive-inelastic scattering of 96.5-MeV pions from hydrogen and helium isotopes are presented. Differential and angle-integrated cross sections are obtained. Distorted wave impulse approximation calculations are reported. The interplay between inclusive-inelastic scattering and pion absorption is discussed.
Effects of Locust Bean Gum on Glucose Tolerance, Sugar Digestion, and Gastric Motility in Rats

Effects of selected undigestible gel-forming complex carbohydrates, including locust bean gum, guar gum, and pectin, on glucose tolerance and food motility were studied in rats. Addition of 2.5% of guar gum or locust bean gum to an oral glucose tolerance test solution significantly altered the postprandial serum glucose response. Although all three complex carbohydrates tested did not reduce the initial rise in serum glucose, locust bean gum and guar gum significantly reduced its subsequent rebound hypoglycemia. Further tests with locust bean gum showed that these effects were dependent on the concentration of the gum added to the test solution or diet. Addition of locust bean gum to test diets reduced the rate of gastric emptying and thus slowed down the passage of food from the stomach into the upper small intestine. The study suggests that addition of locust bean gum to the diet can flatten the postprandial serum glucose curve by slowing the rate of food passage from the stomach into the small intestine. It is probable that locust bean gum and other similar materials may be useful as an adjunct dietary treatment of diabetes mellitus in humans.
Control of metabolism and growth in embryonic turtles: a test of the urea hypothesis.

We performed two experiments to determine (1) whether the metabolism and growth of embryonic snapping turtles (Chelydra serpentina) incubating in wet and dry environments are correlated inversely with the concentration of urea inside their eggs, and (2) whether urea accumulating inside eggs might be the cause of reductions in metabolism and growth by embryos. Eggs in the first experiment were incubated in different hydric environments to induce different patterns of net water exchange between the eggs and their surroundings. Turtles hatching from eggs that were in positive water balance had larger carcasses, smaller residual yolks and lower concentrations of urea in their blood than animals emerging from eggs that were in negative water balance. Thus, we confirmed the existence of correlations among water exchange by eggs, concentrations of urea in fluid compartments inside eggs, and metabolism and growth of embryos. In the second experiment, eggs were injected with solutions of urea at the mid-point of incubation to induce different levels of uremia in developing embryos. The injection protocol induced variation in the concentration of urea in blood of hatchlings similar to that observed in the first experiment for turtles hatching in wet and dry environments. However, the injection protocol did not induce variation in size of hatchlings or in mass of their residual yolk. Thus, the reduction in metabolism and growth of chelonian embryos developing in dry environments does not result from an inhibition of intermediary metabolism caused by urea, and the ‘urea hypothesis’ for control of metabolism cannot be accepted in its present form.
Cardiolipin's propensity for phase transition and its reorganization by dynamin-related protein 1 form a basis for mitochondrial membrane fission

Cardiolipin (CL) is an atypical, dimeric phospholipid essential for mitochondrial dynamics in eukaryotic cells. Dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1), a cytosolic member of the dynamin superfamily of large GTPases, interacts with CL and functions to sustain the balance of mitochondrial division and fusion by catalyzing mitochondrial fission. Although recent studies have indicated a role for CL in stimulating Drp1 self-assembly and GTPase activity at the membrane surface, the mechanism by which CL functions in membrane fission, if at all, remains unclear. Here, using a variety of fluorescence spectroscopic and imaging approaches together with model membranes, we demonstrate that Drp1 and CL function cooperatively in effecting membrane constriction toward fission in three distinct steps. These involve 1) the preferential association of Drp1 with CL localized at a high spatial density in the membrane bilayer, 2) the reorganization of unconstrained, fluid-phase CL molecules in concert with Drp1 self-assembly, and 3) the increased propensity of CL to transition from a lamellar, bilayer arrangement to an inverted hexagonal, nonbilayer configuration in the presence of Drp1 and GTP, resulting in the creation of localized membrane constrictions that are primed for fission. Thus we propose that Drp1 and CL function in concert to catalyze mitochondrial division.
'Change you can Believe in,' you Better not Believe it

This study evaluates the extent to which the moneyed establishment influences Obama’s politics and policy positions. Drawing on insights from power structure theory, the article elaborates on how Obama’s acceptance of the moneyed elite’s political, economic, and cultural hegemony as normative and determinate of everyday reality configures his policies. Drawing primarily on secondary sources (i.e. journal articles, public speeches, newspapers, magazine interviews, and Internet sites) that scrutinize government policies and the appointees who formulate them, this study suggests that the American political system’s narrow commercial parameters incline Obama to govern as the presidential facilitator and protector of private financial interest.
The Yampa arcade

Simulated worlds are a common (and highly lucrative) application domain that stretches from detailed simulation of physical systems to elaborate video game fantasies. We believe that Functional Reactive Programming (FRP) provides just the right level of functionality to develop simulated worlds in a concise, clear and modular way. We demonstrate the use of FRP in this domain by presenting an implementation of the classic "Space Invaders" game in Yampa, our most recent Haskell-embedded incarnation of FRP.
Applications of chalcogenide glass optical fibers

Abstract Chalcogenide-glass fibers based on sulfide, selenide, telluride and their rare-earth-doped compositions are being actively pursued worldwide. Great strides have been made in reducing optical losses using improved chemical purification techniques, but further improvements are needed in both purification and fiberization technology to attain the theoretical optical losses. Despite this, chalcogenide-glass fibers are enabling numerous applications that include laser power delivery, chemical sensing, and imaging, scanning near field microscopy/spectroscopy, IR sources/lasers, amplifiers and optical switches.
The regulatory roles and mechanism of transcriptional pausing.

The multisubunit RNAPs (RNA polymerases) found in all cellular life forms are remarkably conserved in fundamental structure, in mechanism and in their susceptibility to sequence-dependent pausing during transcription of DNA in the absence of elongation regulators. Recent studies of both prokaryotic and eukaryotic transcription have yielded an increasing appreciation of the extent to which gene regulation is accomplished during the elongation phase of transcription. Transcriptional pausing is a fundamental enzymatic mechanism that underlies many of these regulatory schemes. In some cases, pausing functions by halting RNAP for times or at positions required for regulatory interactions. In other cases, pauses function by making RNAP susceptible to premature termination of transcription unless the enzyme is modified by elongation regulators that programme efficient gene expression. Pausing appears to occur by a two-tiered mechanism in which an initial rearrangement of the enzyme9s active site interrupts active elongation and puts RNAP in an elemental pause state from which additional rearrangements or regulator interactions can create long-lived pauses. Recent findings from biochemical and single-molecule transcription experiments, coupled with the invaluable availability of RNAP crystal structures, have produced attractive hypotheses to explain the fundamental mechanism of pausing.
Extradimensional transfer of learning-set formation in stumptailed monkeys

Abstract Stumptailed macaques were trained (original learning) on a series of two-choice discrimination problems in which form (color) was relevant and color (form) irrelevant and variable within and between problems, i.e., tow values from the irrelevant dimension were used on each trial; these values varied randomly with respect to the reinforcer and were changed from problem to problem. After the S s reached a high level of performance, the relevant and irrelevant dimensions were reversed (shift learning). Performance levels were substantially and significantly higher during shift learning than during original learning, suggesting extradimensional transfer of learning-set formation. An additional control group was given extended training on a single color discrimination problem and then a series of form discriminations. The results for this group indicated that adaptation to testing may account for some of the transfer obtained, but far from all of it.
Pathways to the PhD in Nursing: An Analysis of Similarities and Differences

New educational pathways are needed to increase the number of doctor of philosophy (PhD)-prepared nurses. To address this need, an early-entry PhD option designed to engage students in PhD coursework and research during the undergraduate nursing major was developed at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. An evaluation comparing the early-entry option with two more conventional entry points was conducted. Three groups (N = 84) comprised the sample: (a) early-entry students admitted as undergraduates or immediately upon graduation (N = 29), (b) mid-entry students with baccalaureate degrees and at least 1 year of work experience (N = 27), and (c) delayed-entry students with master's degrees and 1 or more years of work experience (N = 28). Qualitative and quantitative data were collected from the 3 groups of students who were admitted from 2002 to 2011. The sources of data were transcriptions of individual interviews and reviews of existing data. Seventy-seven percent of the sample participated in the individual interviews. The database review included all students who matriculated into the PhD program. Common themes among the 3 groups included a need for educational funding, the importance of a faculty mentor, and concern about preparation for the teaching role and the academic work environment. The groups were also comparable in terms of research productivity during doctoral study and postgraduation employment. Differences were found on measures of diversity, program progression, and perceptions of clinical competence. The findings provide needed data for the development and expansion of educational pathways to the PhD in nursing.
TRANSLATING INJURY PREVENTION RESEARCH: A RESOURCE FOR STATE POLICY MAKERS

Background Evidence to inform decisions about injury-related policies exists; however, such information is not readily accessible to policy makers. Aims/Objectives/Purpose To develop and disseminate a tool for state policy makers that summarises the evidence on key injury issues affecting the state. To survey policy makers about the utility of the product. Methods We documented the development of the tool and tracked our dissemination efforts. We fielded a nine question electronic survey of the 188 Maryland state legislators. Results/Outcomes We developed Preventing Injuries in Maryland: A Resource for State Policy Makers (details will be provided about the development process and the product) and disseminated hard copies and an electronic link to policy makers, advocates, and the media. Twenty-seven percent of policymakers responded to our survey; 39% of those reported they knew about the Resource and 35% reported they used it while the legislature was in session. Respondents reported most often using information in the Resource related to alcohol and injury, and distracted driving. Respondents also provided suggestions for future dissemination (eg, more intensive dissemination efforts that include meetings early in the session with legislators, earlier distribution) and we incorporated those suggestions into our dissemination strategy for later editions of the Resource. Significance/Contribution to the Field The Resource offers a format for translating injury research to meet the needs of policy makers. As our field looks for ways to assure that evidence is a part of decision-making, the Resource offers a viable model for accomplishing that goal.
The Role for Zinc in Replication Protein A

Heterotrimeric human single-stranded DNA (ssDNA)-binding protein, replication protein A (RPA), is a central player in DNA replication, recombination, and repair. The C terminus of the largest subunit, RPA70, contains a putative zinc-binding motif and is implicated in complex formation with two smaller subunits, RPA14 and RPA32. The C-terminal domain of RPA70 (RPA70-CTD) was characterized using proteolysis and x-ray fluorescence emission spectroscopy. The proteolytic core of this domain comprised amino acids 432-616. X-ray fluorescence spectra revealed that RPA70-CTD possesses a coordinated Zn(II). The trimeric complex of RPA70-CTD, the ssDNA-binding domain of RPA32 (amino acids 43-171), and RPA14 had strong DNA binding activity. When properly coordinated with zinc, the trimer's affinity to ssDNA was only 3-10-fold less than that of the ssDNA-binding domain in the middle of RPA70. However, the DNA-binding activity of the trimer was dramatically reduced in the presence of chelating agents. Our data indicate that (i) Zn(II) is essential to stabilize the tertiary structure of RPA70-CTD; (ii) RPA70-CTD possesses DNA-binding activity, which is modulated by Zn(II); and (iii) ssDNA binding by the trimer is a synergistic effect generated by the RPA70-CTD and RPA32.
Epidemiology of genital human papillomavirus infections

Specific types of human papillomaviruses (HPV) are major aetiologic agents of cancers of the cervix, vulva, vagina, penis and anus. Although genital HPV infections are extremely common in both male and female populations, only a very small minority is at risk for developing a genital cancer. As with other sexually transmitted infections, the highest rates of genital HPV infection are found in individuals in their early twenties. Detectable HPV DNA is often transient. Cancer-associated HPV types persist a relatively longer time than other types do. The major risk factors for HPV infection involve sexual behaviour, particularly multiple sex partners. Factors including cigarette smoking, oral contraceptive use and pregnancy do not appear to play much of a role in the acquisition of HPV infection.
Approximating the jump discontinuities of a function by its Fourier-Jacobi coefficients

In the present paper we generalize Eckhoff's method, i.e., the method for approximating the locations of discontinuities and the associated jumps of a piecewise smooth function by means of its Fourier-Chebyshev coefficients. A new method enables us to approximate the locations of discontinuities and the associated jumps of a discontinuous function, which belongs to a restricted class of the piecewise smooth functions, by means of its Fourier-Jacobi coefficients for arbitrary indices. Approximations to the locations of discontinuities and the associated jumps are found as solutions of algebraic equations. It is shown as well that the locations of discontinuities and the associated jumps are recovered exactly for piecewise constant functions with a finite number of discontinuities. In addition, we study the accuracy of the approximations and present some numerical examples.
Femtosecond laser micromachining of silicon for MEMS

Laser micromachining of n-type silicon wafer was studied using femtosecond laser operating at 400 and 800 nm wavelengths. The fundamental wavelength was used to fabricate a diaphragm of 4 mm diameter using a computer controlled galvo head. The laser pulsewidth was 110 fs, repetition rate of 1 kHz, and maximum average power of 2 W. The experiments were done in air and in vacuum environment. The samples were examined with optical microscope and surface profilometer. Experiments were also done with doubling the laser beam frequency using LBO crystal to get 400 nm wavelength. Using a 10 nm resolution stage, high numerical aperture microscope objective, we were able to fabricate 235 nm wide lines with 600 nm depth.
Colorimetric sensor arrays for molecular recognition

Abstract The development of colorimetric sensor arrays for the detection of volatile organic compounds is reported. Using an array of chemo-responsive dyes, enormous discriminatory power is created in a simple device that can imaged easily with an ordinary flat-bed scanner. High sensitivities (ppb) have been demonstrated for the detection of biologically important analytes, including amines, carboxylic acids, and thiols. By the proper choice of dyes and substrate, the array can be made essentially non-responsive to changes in humidity.
Integrity of the Emerging Global Markets in Greenhouse Gases

This article considers the integrity of the emerging emissions allowance markets for greenhouse gases (GHG) under the international emissions trading system created by the Kyoto Protocol and the pa...
The concurrent suppression of an energy harvesting from surface vibrations: experimental investigations

Vibrational energy harvesting devices are oftentimes constructed in a manner identical to classical tuned-massdampers used in vibration control applications. However, many applications and models in past work assume that the harvesters will have negligible influence on the host structure (e.g. harvesters on a bridge). In contrast, this work adopts the perspective that the energy harvester is analogous to an electromechanical vibration absorber, attenuating the structural vibrations via a dominant mechanical influence while converting the absorbed energy into electric power. One embodiment of a device serving these two purposes-passive vibration attenuation and energy harvesting-is introduced. The device utilizes a distributed piezoelectric spring layer such that as the spring is strained between the top mass layer and the vibrating host structure the piezoelectric spring generates a voltage potential across its electrodes. Two experimental studies are detailed which investigate the capability for energy harvesting vibration absorbers to meet both goals. It is found that achievement of both objectives may require compromise but with proper device design still yields a viable electrical output.