cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Synaptic Components, Function and Modulation Characterized by GCaMP6f Ca2+ Imaging in Mouse Cholinergic Myenteric Ganglion Neurons

The peristaltic contraction and relaxation of intestinal circular and longitudinal smooth muscles is controlled by synaptic circuit elements that impinge upon phenotypically diverse neurons in the myenteric plexus. While electrophysiological studies provide useful information concerning the properties of such synaptic circuits, they typically involve tissue disruption and do not correlate circuit activity with biochemically defined neuronal phenotypes. To overcome these limitations, mice were engineered to express the sensitive, fast Ca2+ indicator GCaMP6f selectively in neurons that express the acetylcholine (ACh) biosynthetic enzyme choline acetyltransfarse (ChAT) thereby allowing rapid activity-driven changes in Ca2+ fluorescence to be observed without disrupting intrinsic connections, solely in cholinergic myenteric ganglion (MG) neurons. Experiments with selective receptor agonists and antagonists reveal that most mouse colonic cholinergic (i.e., GCaMP6f+/ChAT+) MG neurons express nicotinic ACh receptors (nAChRs), particularly the ganglionic subtype containing α3 and β4 subunits, and most express ionotropic serotonin receptors (5-HT3Rs). Cholinergic MG neurons also display small, spontaneous Ca2+ transients occurring at ≈ 0.2 Hz. Experiments with inhibitors of Na+ channel dependent impulses, presynaptic Ca2+ channels and postsynaptic receptor function reveal that the Ca2+ transients arise from impulse-driven presynaptic activity and subsequent activation of postsynaptic nAChRs or 5-HT3Rs. Electrical stimulation of axonal connectives to MG evoked Ca2+ responses in the neurons that similarly depended on nAChRs or/and 5-HT3Rs. Responses to single connective shocks had peak amplitudes and rise and decay times that were indistinguishable from the spontaneous Ca2+ transients and the largest fraction had brief synaptic delays consistent with activation by monosynaptic inputs. These results indicate that the spontaneous Ca2+ transients and stimulus evoked Ca2+ responses in MG neurons originate in circuits involving fast chemical synaptic transmission mediated by nAChRs or/and 5-HT3Rs. Experiments with an α7-nAChR agonist and antagonist, and with pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) reveal that the same synaptic circuits display extensive capacity for presynaptic modulation. Our use of non-invasive GCaMP6f/ChAT Ca2+ imaging in colon segments with intrinsic connections preserved, reveals an abundance of direct and modulatory synaptic influences on cholinergic MG neurons.
Presence and Stability of SARS-CoV-2 on Environmental Currency and Money Cards

The highly contagious nature of SARS-CoV-2 has led to several studies on the transmission of the virus. A little studied potential fomite of great concern in the community is currency, which has been shown to harbor microbial pathogens in several studies. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, many businesses in the United States have limited the use of banknotes in favor of credit cards. However, SARS-CoV-2 has shown greater stability on plastic in several studies. Herein, the stability of SARS-CoV-2 at room temperature on banknotes, money cards and coins was investigated. In vitro studies with live virus suggested SARS-CoV-2 was highly unstable on banknotes, showing an initial rapid reduction in viable virus and no viral detection by 24 hours. In contrast, SARS-CoV-2 was far more stable on money cards with live virus detected after 48 hours. Environmental swabbing of currency and money cards on and near the campus of Brigham Young University supported these results, with no detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA on banknotes, and a low level on money cards. No viable virus was detected on either. These preliminary results suggest that the use of money cards over banknotes in order to slow the spread of this virus may be ill-advised. These findings should be investigated further through larger environmental studies involving more locations.
How can we make better decisions about dystonic voice management

PURPOSE OF REVIEW The optimal diagnosis and management of dystonic voice disorders are rooted in the nuanced understanding of their phenomenology. Distinguishing between subtypes of vocal dystonia is challenging, not only because the audible and physical presentations of these dystonia's can seem similar, but also because there is a lack of scientific consensus regarding the diagnostic criteria for these conditions. To help improve the clinician's acumen we focus on outlining the classification of the top three neurological voice disorders, notably: spasmodic dysphonia, (2) spasmodic dysphonia with tremor, and essential tremor of the voice. We also provide an algorithmic approach based on current evidence-based literature to guide practitioners through the clinical diagnosis and management of each possible etiology. RECENT FINDINGS Much remains unknown about the subtypes of vocal dystonia, and this gap in our knowledge likely limits our ability to advance clinical management. Still, continued experience evaluating and treating these patients yields refined clinical evaluations and decision making. SUMMARY Improvements in our clinical decision-making can be made by acknowledging that our limited understanding of vocal dystonia may hinder what therapeutic interventions we can offer, yet our ability to accurately diagnose the dystonia is central to providing optimal patient management.
Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport/Functional Hypothalamic Amenorrhea

Functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (FHA) is a relatively common disorder in which patients develop secondary amenorrhea and are found to have low estrogen levels without evidence of organic abnormality. The etiology is disruption of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, which can be caused by weight loss, eating disorders, excessive exercise, or psychological stress.
Institutions for the common good

The protection of domestic populations by international institutions is both an anomaly and an enduring practice in international relations. It is an anomaly because in a system of sovereign states, the welfare of individuals and groups falls outside traditional definitions of state interest. Yet since the evolution of the nation-state system, collectivities of states have sought to protect religious minorities, dynastic families, national minorities, ethnic communities, individual citizens and refugees. Cronin explains this phenomenon by developing a theory that links international stability with the progress of a cohesive international order. His book examines how states attempt to provide for international stability by creating International Protection Regimes - multilateral institutions designed to protect clearly defined classes of people within sovereign states. It argues that in the aftermath of major systemic changes states try to create international orders by regulating the relationship between governments and their populations, particularly in newly-formed and reorganized states.
Localization and quantitation of lithium in rat tissue following intraperitoneal injections of lithium chloride. I. Thyroid, thymus, heart, kidney, adrenal, and testis.

Abstract The quantitative distribution of lithium was determined in the thyroid, thymus, heart, adrenal, kidney, and testis of rats intraperitoneally injected with 1 meq Li/kgm every 12 hr for 14 days. The lithium was analyzed in intact tissue sections by radiographic dielectric track registration techniques. A relatively uniform distribution was found in the thyroid and heart, with nonuniform localization in the thymus, adrenal, kidney, and testis. The highest lithium concentrations were found in the papillary area of the kidney, followed by the thyroid, which contained about half the amount observed in renal papillae but two to five times the levels in other tissues examined. In the thymus, the lithium concentration in the cortex was greater than in the medulla, whereas in the adrenal it was greater in the medulla than in the cortex. This pattern of lithium distribution cannot be accounted for by differences in vascularization since the medulla of both organs is more vascularized than their cortex.
SαBP/BSAP/NF-Sμ B1, a Murine and Human B Cell Stage Specific Nuclear Factor with DNA Binding Specificity Implying Roles in Switch-Recombination and Transcription

Immunoglobulin genes undergo a programmed series of DNA rearrangements in B lymphoid cells. Following assembly of a functional variable (V) region gene, an independent series of recombinations determine the heavy chain isotype of the expressed antibody (IgM, IgG, IgE and IgA). Heavy chain class switches result in the deletion and replacement of the Cμ gene with a downstream CH gene (Cl3, Cl1, Cl2b, Cl2a, C∈ or Cα) (reviewed in Marcu, 1982; Shimizu and Honjo, 1984; Radbruch et al., 1986; Gritzmacher, 1989). These recombinations are mediated by switch (S) regions which are positioned about 2 Kb 5’ of every CH gene segment with the exception of Cδ. Differential regulation of CH class switching is believed to be manifested by the accessibility of S segments to a B cell specific switch-recombinase activity (Stavnezer and Sirlin, 1986). Switch-recombination occurs at widely spaced positions within Sμ and other downstream S regions and only limited sequence homology between S sequences may be present near the site of recombination (Gritzmacher, 1989; Ott and Marcu, 1989). S regions consist of short tandemly repetitive sequences of varying length and homology which are believed to mediate switch recombination by an illegitimate mechanism. GAGCT and GGGGT sequences are found in all S regions in addition to three other commonly observed pentamers: ACCAG, GCAGC and TGAGC (reviewed in Shimizu and Honjo, 1984; Gritzmacher, 1989). A heptamer consensus motif, YAGGTTG (Y=pyrimidine), has also been found nearby a number of switch recombination sites in plasma cell tumors and hybridoma lines and is also repeated in various S segments (Marcu et al., 1982). The 5’ portion of the Sμ region is non-repetitive but does contain interspersed GAGCT, GGGGT and YAGGTTG like sequences while the 3’ portion is composed of a simple repetitive block of (GAGCT)nGGGGT motifs where it ranges from one to seven (Nikaido et al., 1981). The Sμ, S∈ and Sα sequences display considerable homology particularly in areas containing repeats of GAGCT sequences while the Sl regions contain a lower density of these pentamers but are typified by 49mer or 52mer (Sl2a) repeats and TGGGG, GCAGC and ACCAG motifs (Kataoka et al., 1981). The overall homology of the Sl regions correlates with their distance from SSμ (e.g., SSl3> Sl1> Sl2b > Sl2a) (shimizu et al., 1982; Stanton and Marcu 1982).
Information Transfer in Quantum Measurements: Irreversibility and Amplification

The aim of these lectures is to investigate the transfer of information occurring in course of quantum interactions. In particular, I shall explore circumstances in which such an information transfer with the quantum environment of the considered quantum system leads to the destruction of the phase coherence between the states of the privileged basis in the system Hilbert space. This basis shall be called the pointer basis. I shall argue that states of this pointer basis correspond to the “classical” states of the observables of the quantum system in question.
Factitious Bacterial Meningitis Revisited

Nonviable gram-negative bacilli were seen in smears of cerebrospinal fluid from eight infants in whom bacterial meningitis was ruled out. Tubes from commercial kits were the source of the factitious organisms.
The number of catalytic sites in acetylcholinesterase

By using two methods of titration, the number of active sites in acetylcholinesterase was determined. Either stepwise inhibition of the enzyme by an irreversible inhibitor, namely di-isopropyl phosphorofluoridate, or direct measurement of the concentration of active sites by titration with o-nitrophenyl dimethylcarbamate yielded an equivalent weight of approx. 130000 for an active site in acetylcholinesterase. This indicates two sites per molecule, since the native enzyme has a molecular weight of 260000.
Discriminant analysis indicates a single sperm protein (SP22) is predictive of fertility following exposure to epididymal toxicants.

In a previous study, we found that ethane dimethanesulphonate (EDS) compromised the fertilizing ability of proximal cauda epididymal sperm from the rat within 4 days of exposure, an effect that persisted in castrated, testosterone (T)-implanted animals, establishing direct action on the epididymis. This EDS-induced reduction in fertilizing ability was highly correlated with a quantitative decrease in specific sperm protein. Here we sought to determine whether the fertility of proximal cauda epididymal sperm recovered from animals exposed to a variety of male reproductive toxicants could be predicted by assessing quantitative changes in specific sperm protein(s), or whether more common endpoints (e.g., sperm motility, sperm morphology, serum and epididymal tissue T, cauda epididymal sperm reserves) also are required to predict fertility. Intact adult male rats were dosed with EDS (25 or 50 mg/kg), chloroethylmethanesulphonate (CEMS; 12.5 or 18.75 mg/kg), or epichlorohydrin (EPI; 3 or 6 mg/kg) daily for 4 days. Castrated, T-implanted rats were dosed with hydroxyflutamide (HFLUT; 12.5 or 25 mg/kg) daily for 5 days. On day 5, proximal cauda epididymal sperm were inseminated in utero into receptive, cervically stimulated adult females, and on day 9, fertility (implants/corpora lutea) was assessed. Fertility-was decreased by the higher dose of each toxicant (P 50% fertility) and subfertile (< 50 fertility) animals, respectively, when discriminant analysis was performed. Thus, the amount of SP22 in a cauda epididymal sperm sample may be a useful predictor of fertility in toxicant-treated animals.
Understanding and Examining Design Activities with Cultural Historical Activity Theory

In this chapter, I discuss the need in instructional technology to understand design within the context of complex real-world human activities. I propose cultural historical activity theory (CHAT) as a theoretical framework that can provide a method for uncovering the complexities involved in real-world design. In this discussion I share my personal design experience at a Global Communications Company and provide a sample case and its analysis about one family’s experience building a Passive Home in the United States.
Abstract 3457: Galectin-1 suppression enhances combined anti-EGFR and radiation-therapy of NSCLC

Proceedings: AACR 103rd Annual Meeting 2012‐‐ Mar 31‐Apr 4, 2012; Chicago, IL Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer related death worldwide and will account for nearly 160,000 deaths in the United States alone in 2010. Between 80-90% of all cases diagnosed are classified as non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Recent studies have shown a significant subpopulation of patients diagnosed with NSCLC have an activation of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) domain resulting from gene amplification, overexpression, or kinse-domain activating mutations. EGFR inhibitors such as Erlotinib and Gefitnib have shown promising results in this subpopulation of patients however median overall survival remains poor. LSGAL1, Galectin-1 (GAL1), is a beta-galactoside-binding protein we recently identified to play an important role in the activation of the PI3-Kinase pathway located directly downstream of EGFR. Silencing Galectin-1 in combination with an EGFR-inhibitor and radiation therapy may be a promising therapeutic strategy for patients with NSCLC. Using a short-hairpin RNA strategy we silenced GAL1 expression in four different NCSLC cell lines and assessed their relative radioresistance via clonogenic survival assay in the presence and absence of an EGFR inhibitor. In order to elucidate the mechanism between GAL1 and EGFR, western blotting and QPRC analysis was performed on downstream pathway members, specifically the RAS/PI3-Kinase and RAS/ERK signaling cascades. Functional assays focusing on proliferation/survival were carried out to determine the effect silencing GAL1 had on the combination of EGFR inhibition and radiation therapy in our NSCLC cell lines. Our preliminary results suggest silencing GAL1 reduces the clonogenic survival of NSCLC cells when used in combination with an EGFR inhibitor following irradiation. In addition well known players within PI3-Kinase pathway such as pAKT S473 appear to be altered in the absence of GAL1. Our preliminary findings suggest GAL1 is a promising therapeutic target in NSCLC when used in combination with an EGFR inhibitor and radiation therapy and is worthy of further investigation. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3457. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-3457
Divine Commands, Natural Law, and the Authority of God

Does morality depend ultimately on the rationally compelling force of natural law, or on God’s authoritative commands? These are not exclusive alternatives, of course, but they represent two widely influential ways of understanding the moral order seen in relation to divine wisdom, goodness, and power. Each alternative underscores some elements of theistic belief while deemphasizing others. Theories of the natural law emphasize the intrinsic goodness of the natural order to the potential detriment of divine freedom, whereas divine command theories underscore God’s sovereign freedom but at the risk of implying that the moral order is arbitrary and God’s will is, at best, opaque. It might seem that these alternatives are not only distinct but fundamentally at odds, but we may well ask whether this is necessarily the case. Natural law and divine command theories of ethics have persisted because each seems to preserve some key elements of theistic belief, and for that reason, theists have a stake in holding on to each perspective if possible.
Weber and the Anomic Theory of Deviance

(1965). Weber and the Anomic Theory of Deviance. The Sociological Quarterly: Vol. 6, No. 3, pp. 233-240.
Expression of rabbit C-reactive protein in transgenic mice inhibits development of antigen-induced arthritis

Objective: C‐reactive protein (CRP) is a plasma protein of hepatic origin thought to play an important role in host defences. We used transgenic mice, capable of expressing high levels of rabbit CRP (serum concentration>50 µg/mL) in response to dietary manipulation, to determine whether high levels of this acute‐phase reactant can alter the course of experimentally induced monoarticular arthritis.Method: Arthritis was induced by a single injection of methylated bovine serum albumin (mBSA) on day 0 followed by injections of interleukin (IL)‐1β.Results: In transgenic animals in which CRP expression had been suppressed (serum concentration 50 µg/mL on the day of mBSA and ...
Improving WCET by applying a WC code-positioning optimization

Applications in embedded systems often need to meet specified timing constraints. It is advantageous to not only calculate the worst-case execution time (WCET) of an application, but to also perform transformation, which reduce the WCET, since an application with a lower WCET will be less likely to violate its timing constraints. Some processors incur a pipeline delay whenever an instruction transfers control to a target that is not the next sequential instruction. Code-positioning optimizations attempt to reduce these delays by positioning the basic blocks to minimize the number of unconditional jumps and taken conditional branches that occur. Traditional code-positioning algorithms use profile data to find the frequently executed edges between basic blocks, then minimize the transfers of control along these edges to reduce the average case execution time (ACET). This paper introduces a WCET code-positioning optimization, driven by the worst-case (WC) path information from a timing analyzer, to reduce the WCET instead of ACET. This WCET optimization changes the layout of the code in memory to reduce the branch penalties along the WC paths. Unlike the frequency of edges in traditional profile-driven code positioning, the WC path may change after code-positioning decisions are made. Thus, WCET code positioning is inherently more challenging than ACET code positioning. The experimental results show that this optimization typically finds the optimal layout of the basic blocks with the minimal WCET. The results show over a 7p reduction in WCET is achieved after code positioning is performed.
Superficial and systemic illness related to a hot tub

Abstract In an outbreak of folliculitis in Alaska among bathers in a contaminated hot tub, one person was found in whom follicular lesions were preceded by deep, tender, peripheral nodules. Of nine affected bathers, five showed inflammation of Montgomery's follicles of the breast. Bathing longer in the tub and later in the day was associated with increased risk of disease. This investigation added serotype 0–7,8 to the list of pseudomonads associated with hot tub infections.
Measurement of nadir and near-nadir 94-GHz brightness temperatures of several tactical-scene clutter types

The authors present 94-GHz radiometric brightness temperatures of various clutter materials at nadir. The clutter materials measured include field vegetation, asphalt pavement, and an asphalt shingle roof and data is presented for each clutter type. We also report measurements that quantify the effect of water on the brightness temperature of metal. These measurements were made by adding calibrated quantities of water to a metal plate while recording the plate's millimeter-wave brightness temperature. Off-nadir data out to 45 deg is also presented for the field vegetation and asphalt pavement. Using a simple rough scattering model for the materials, we made estimates of the emissivity of the field vegetation and asphalt. The emissivity of the roof was determined by measuring its brightness temperature as it was heated.
The formal nature of emergent biological organization and its implications for understandings of closure.

: This paper shows how recognition of biological form, of which the dynamics of closure is an integral part, is mandated by research on autopoietic systems, self-organization, evolutionary theory, and on topics in a variety of other areas, including infant and child development. It shows how a “matter pure and simple” (a mechanical concept of nature) is inimical to veridical understandings and explanations of emergent organization from the level of cells to the level of intact organisms-animate forms. By means of an analysis and discussion of writings by prominent researchers in diverse fields, a brief inquiry into neuron firing, and a consideration of intrinsic dynamics and primal animation, this paper shows that a principle of motion or animation informs biological nature. In other words, the fundamentally dynamic character of biological form at all levels exemplifies the kinetic character of living matter. The final section of this paper pinpoints implications for closure, emphasizing the need for an acknowledgement of the dynamics of closure and the need for theoretical and biological reformulations of living systems that incorporate that dynamics. It exemplifies the implication in each instance with reference to authors represented in this volume.
Multimedia analysis and composition cloud service

Consumers increasingly desire to create and consume multimedia seamlessly from any of their devices wherever they happen to be. To meet this demand, multimedia services such as analysis and composition are increasingly moving to the cloud. This trend is enabling multimedia capabilities that can be accessed through mobile and social network applications as well as web browsers. In this paper, we discuss the architecture of a multimedia analysis and composition cloud service. We show examples of how this architecture can be used to provide browser-based multimedia applications, mobile applications, and social network applications, while comparing the advantages of each access method.
Regulation of norepinephrine transporter abundance by catecholamines and desipramine in vivo.

Abstract The norepinephrine transporter (NET) regulates adrenoreceptor signaling by controlling the availability of synaptic norepinephrine (NE), and it is a direct target for some classes of antidepressant drugs. NET levels are normal in dopamine β-hydroxylase knockout ( Dbh −/− ) mice that lack NE, demonstrating that the NET does not require endogenous NE for appropriate regulation under physiological conditions. In contrast, tyrosine hydroxylase knockout ( Th −/− ) mice that lack both NE and dopamine (DA) have reduced levels of NET, suggesting that it is down-regulated by a complete absence of catecholamines and not NE per se. Chronic treatment with the NET inhibitor, desipramine (DMI), reduced NET levels in both control and Dbh −/− mice, demonstrating that NE is not required for the regulation of NET by antidepressant drugs. There are some qualitative and quantitative differences in the down-regulation of the NET by catecholamine depletion and DMI treatment, suggesting that different mechanisms may be involved.
Incorporation of [1‐13C]oleate into cellular triglycerides in differentiating 3T3L1 cells

Oleate is one of the most abundant dietary fatty acids, and much remains to be learned about its metabolism in fat cells. We studied the incorporation of exogenous [1-13C]-oleate into triglycerides (TG) in differentiating 3T3L1 preadipocytes using 13C NMR spectroscopy. The quantity of oleate incorporated into TG was found to increase as preadipocytes differentiated into fat cells. The ratio of unesterified [1-13C]oleate to total stored fatty acids was higher in less differentiated cells, and declined at later stages of differentiation as cells accumulated fatty acids through de novo synthesis. When added as the only exogenous fatty acid, oleate was largely esterified at the sn-2 position. When equimolar unlabeled linoleate was co-provided at the same time, the ratio of [1-13C]oleate esterified at the sn-1,3 position increased, implying competition between linoleate and oleate for esterification, especially at the sn-2 position. When cells pre-enriched with [1-13C]oleate (esterified to TG) were treated with isoproterenol, a lipolytic agent, most of the [1-13C]oleate was still found in TG, despite a high rate of lipolysis determined by measuring glycerol release. This implies extensive re-esterification of the oleate released by lipolysis.
Bombesin-like immunoreactivity in human cerebrospinal fluid

Abstract Bombesin-like immunoreactivity (BLI) was detected in the cerebrospinal fluid of healthy human volunteers. The mean concentration+-S.E. for 29 subjects was34.4 +- 1.8fmol/ml. Chromatography of human spinal fluid BLI on Sephadex G50 revealed a single peak which coeluted with bombesin nonapeptide.
Anomalous Origin of Left Pulmonary Artery from Ascending Aorta, Right Aortic Arch and Right Patent Ductus Arteriosus

A case of anomalous left pulmonary artery (ALPA) arising from the ascending aorta, a right aortic arch and a right patent ductus arteriosus, a combination not previously reported, is described. Current concepts regarding the genesis of an ALPA also predict main pulmonary artery hypoplasia and defects of the ventricular septum. These associated defects were not present in our patient Their absence suggests that the developmental faults associated with these abnormalities are even more complex than previously suspected. The need for early diagnosis and the efficacy of surgical correction are emphasized.
Computer methods for preliminary design of surface effect vehicles

Abstract This report describes a computerized engineering analysis which determines the structural weight for surface effect vehicles. This structural program, together with a performance analysis program, and supporting data provide the means for generating rapid parametric studies and conceptual designs of surface effect vehicles (SEV's). The programs are useful in: (1) defning optimum SEV design parameters, (2) comparing data, methods and results from differentsources, and (3) definining technology areas where significant improvements are needed. The structural program determines design loads such as water impact, hogging and sagging, and uses these, together with material properties and a structural model to calculate structural weights.
A Signaling Role of Histone-binding Proteins and INHAT Subunits pp32 and Set/TAF-Iβ in Integrating Chromatin Hypoacetylation and Transcriptional Repression

Various post-translational modifications of histones significantly influence gene transcription. Although un- or hypoacetylated histones are tightly linked to transcriptional repression, the mechanisms and identities of chromatin signal transducer proteins integrating histone hypoacetylation into repression in humans have remained largely unknown. Here we show that the mammalian histone-binding proteins and inhibitor of acetyltransferases (INHAT) complex subunits, Set/template-activating factor-Ibeta (TAF-Ibeta) and pp32, specifically bind to unacetylated, hypoacetylated, and repressively marked histones but not to hyperacetylated histones. Additionally, Set/TAF-Ibeta and pp32 associate with histone deacetylases in vitro and in vivo and repress transcription from a chromatin-integrated template in vivo. Finally, Set/TAF-Ibeta and pp32 associate with an endogenous estrogen receptor-regulated gene, EB1, in the hypoacetylated transcriptionally inactive state but not with the hyperacetylated transcriptionally active form. Together, these data define a novel in vivo mechanistic role for the mammalian Set/TAF-Ibeta and pp32 proteins as transducers of chromatin signaling by integrating chromatin hypoacetylation and transcriptional repression.
Determinants of using operating lease in the hotel industry

Abstract This study investigated the determinants of using operating lease in the hotel industry. The hotel industry has utilized operating lease not only for operating equipment but also as a financing instrument through ‘sales and lease back.’ This study found that hotel firms with less internal funds and/or with higher debt ratios are more likely to use operating lease. Contrary to the studies of other industries, hotel firms with less financially distressed are more likely to use operating lease. This study indicated that operating lease decrease as firm size increases, but only up to a certain level, after that level operating lease increase as firm size increases. Contrary to our expectations, the growth opportunity of hotel firms appeared to have no relationship to use of operating lease. These findings contribute to further understandings of hotel industry-specific information regarding what drives hotel firms to use operating lease.
Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ion Trap Mass Spectrometry: Efficient Trapping and Ejection of Ions

The present paper explores the coupling of a matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) ion source with an ion trap mass analyzer, with particular emphasis on the development of methods for improving the efficiency of ion trapping and ejection. A technique is described for directly measuring, for the first time, the trapping efficiency of peptide ions produced in a remote external MALDI ion source. The technique was used to devise an improved scheme for trapping, which yielded efficiencies as high as 39%. An improved understanding of the resonant ejection process led us to a new resonant ejection parameter set that increased the ejection efficiency by 1 order of magnitude over more conventionally used parameter sets and allowed for marked improvements in the mass resolution of ions with m/z > 2500. The presently described improvements in the efficiencies of ion trapping and ejection together with improved methods for isolating and fragmenting ions (Qin, J.; Chait, B.T.Anal. Chem., following article in this tissue) lay the foundation for highly sensitive MALDI ion trap mass spectrometry of proteins (Qin, J.; et al. Anal. Chem. 1996, 68, 1784-1791).
Identification of the light-absorbing states in tolane with potential relevance to self-similar phenylacetylene dendrimers

Abstract We report the observation and analysis of the high resolution fluorescence excitation spectrum of tolane (or diphenylacetylene, DPA) in a molecular beam. This analysis shows that the first one-photon-allowed state in DPA has 1 B 1 u symmetry, a consequence of exciton-like coupling between the two 1 L a states of the connected phenylacetylene (PA) units. The resulting long-axis polarization of the 1 B 1 u – 1 A g transition of each linear segment is responsible for the diverse optical properties of PA dendrimers.
Effect of tetrahydrohomofolate on DNA biosynthesis in leukemic mice.

SummaryA relationship has been noted between the antitumor activity of H4HF and its effect on incorporation of formate and orotate into DNA of organs of mice bearing advanced methotrexate-sensitive (L1210) and -resistant (L1210/FR-8) leukemia after daily treatment with H4HF for 4 days. Both formate and orotate uptake into DNA was markedly inhibited in organs of mice bearing L1210/FR-8 leukemia, but not in mice bearing L1210 leukemia. Single doses did not cause demonstrable inhibition of DNA synthesis in organs of mice bearing either of the tumor lines.
Target selection and imaging requirements for JWST fine phasing

To achieve and maintain the fine alignment of its segmented primary mirror the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) plans to use focus-diverse wavefront sensing (WFS) techniques with science camera imagery. The optical requirements for JWST are such that the error contribution from the WFS itself must be limited 10nm rms over all the controllable degrees of freedom of the telescope. In this paper, we will explore the requirements on the target selection and imaging requirements necessary to achieve the desired level of WFS accuracy. Using Monte Carlo simulations we explore the WFS error as a function of wavefront aberrations level, defocus-diversity level, optical bandwidth and imaging signal-to-noise ratio to establish the key imaging requirements. By taking into account practical integration time limits along with the distribution of the defocused point-spread functions, we establish the bright and faint star magnitude limits suitable for WFS target selection.
Sexuality in Women with Cancer

There are gaps in the research regarding sexuality in women with cancer, making the interventions that are used more expert opinion rather than scientific evidence. There is a need for research about effective interventions, and there is a need to educate nurses to help change practice through communication about a topic that makes both the patient and the nurse uncomfortable.
Development Of Multichannel Glass Couplers For Input Into Multichannel LiNnbO 3 Modulator Arrays

Our investigation shows that tapered glass optical waveguides provide the best coupling device for introducting and directing radiation from a semiconductor laser source (e.g., GaAs) into a multichannel Ti:LiNb0 3 optical, array-modulator. Several fabrication methods were considered including R. FTSputter depositing Corning 7059 glass on Corning 2947 microscope slides which were used as substrates. The second method studied previously involved reactive sputtering Nb metal in an 02 atmosphere to produce Nb205 waveguides. A third method was also chosen for this investigation which involved indiffusing silver ions into Corning 2947 slides at temperatures between 270°C and 300°C and with the assistance of applied electric fields ranging from 3 to 200 V/mm. Waveguides with excellent taper geometry had been produced by R.F-Sputtering Corning 7059 glass. However, better optical properties were found in the indiffused silver guides and control of the effective waveguide depth in these guides indicated that tapered waveguides could also be formed. WKB analysis of these graded index guides showed that the most likely refractive index profile was Gaussian in shape. At 632.8 nm losses were found to be around 1dB/cm however, at shorter wavelengths losses were found to increase. A luminescent emission consisting of red and near IR wavelengths is produced normal to the waveguide surface when guided wave modes are excited at 488 and 514.5 nm. This red and near IR emission consists of a series of bands that are produced by a series of spectral shifts ranging from 3190 to 6475 cm 1 from the 488 and 514.5 nm laser excitation lines. It is proposed that this absorption of the excitation radiative and subsequent re-emission is due to the presence of silver aggragates in the waveguide layer.
Butein sensitizes human leukemia cells to apoptosis induced by tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis inducing ligand (TRAIL)

Resistance to tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) therapy is frequently encountered, requiring combined treatments with sensitizing agents. It is, therefore, important to find nontoxic drugs which can be used together with TRAIL. In this study, we investigated natural compounds that can overcome resistance to TRAIL, and found that butein, a polyphenol, exhibits significant synergism with TRAIL. Treatment with TRAIL in combination with subtoxic concentrations of butein sensitizes TRAIL-resistant human leukemia U937 cells to apoptosis. Butein increased caspase-3 activity and expression of death receptor DR5. The apoptotic cell death induced by combined treatment was significantly reduced by z-DEVD-fmk, a caspase-3 inhibitor, suggesting a critical role of caspase-3 in apoptosis. These results indicate that butein sensitizes TRAIL-resistant U937 cells to TRAIL-induced apoptosis in a caspase-3 dependent manner which might be correlated with upregulation of death receptor DR5. Our data suggests that combined treatment with butein and TRAIL may provide a safe and effective strategy for treating cancer.
On weighted lattice paths

Abstract A weighted lattice path from (1, 1) to (n, m) is a path consisting of unit vertical, horizontal, and diagonal steps of weight w. Let f(0), f(1), f(2), … be a nondecreasing sequence of positive integers; the path connecting the points of the set {(n, m) ¦ f(n − 1) ⩽ m ⩽ f(n), n = 1, 2, …} will be called the roof determined by f. We determine the number of weighted lattice paths from (1, 1) to (n + 1, f(n)) which do not cross the roof determined by f. We also determine the polynomials that must be placed in each cell below the roof such that if a 1 is placed in each cell whose lower left-hand corner is a point of the roof, every k × k square subarray comprised of adjacent rows and columns and containing at least one 1 will have determinant x( k 2 ) .
Soliton solutions of the massive Thirring model and the inverse scattering transform

Classical solutions of the massive Thirring model are found that describe the fermion constituent solitons of multisoliton solutions of the sine-Gordon equation. The construction of these fermion solutions is based on the inverse scattering transform for the sine-Gordon equation. It is shown that the equations of the inverse scattering formalism transform into the equations of the massive Thirring model through Coleman's correspondences between the two theories. The charge structure associated with multisoliton solutions is made very explicit by these correspondences. The 1-soliton, 2-soliton, and breather cases are discussed in detail.
Design principles for riboswitch function.

Scientific and technological advances that enable the tuning of integrated regulatory components to match network and system requirements are critical to reliably control the function of biological systems. RNA provides a promising building block for the construction of tunable regulatory components based on its rich regulatory capacity and our current understanding of the sequence–function relationship. One prominent example of RNA-based regulatory components is riboswitches, genetic elements that mediate ligand control of gene expression through diverse regulatory mechanisms. While characterization of natural and synthetic riboswitches has revealed that riboswitch function can be modulated through sequence alteration, no quantitative frameworks exist to investigate or guide riboswitch tuning. Here, we combined mathematical modeling and experimental approaches to investigate the relationship between riboswitch function and performance. Model results demonstrated that the competition between reversible and irreversible rate constants dictates performance for different regulatory mechanisms. We also found that practical system restrictions, such as an upper limit on ligand concentration, can significantly alter the requirements for riboswitch performance, necessitating alternative tuning strategies. Previous experimental data for natural and synthetic riboswitches as well as experiments conducted in this work support model predictions. From our results, we developed a set of general design principles for synthetic riboswitches. Our results also provide a foundation from which to investigate how natural riboswitches are tuned to meet systems-level regulatory demands.
GCP compliance and readability of informed consent forms from an emerging hub for clinical trials.

Background: The rapid expansion of trials in emerging regions has raised valid concerns about research subject protection, particularly related to informed consent. The purpose of this study is to assess informed consent form (ICF) compliance with Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines and the readability easeof the ICFs in Abu Dhabi, a potential destination for clinical trials in the UAE. Materials and Methods: A multicenter retrospective cross-sectional analysis of 140 ICFs from industry sponsored and non-sponsored studies was conducted by comparing against a local standard ICF. Flesch-Kincaid Reading Scale was used to assess the readability ease of the forms. Results: Non-sponsored studies had signifi cantly lower overall GCP compliance of 55.8% when compared to 79.5% for industry sponsored studies. Only 33% of sponsored and 16% of non-sponsored studies included basic information on the participants' rights and responsibilities. Flesch-Kincaid Reading ease score for the informed consent forms from industry sponsored studies was signifi cantly higher 48.9 ± 4.8 as compared to 38.5 ± 8.0 for non-sponsored studies, though both were more complex than recommended. Reading Grade Level score was also higher than expected, but scores for the ICFs from the industry sponsored studies were 9.7 ± 0.7, signifi cantly lower as compared to 12.2 ± 1.3 for non-sponsored studies. Conclusion: In spite of the undisputed benefits of conducting research in emerging markets readability, comprehension issues and the lack of basic essential information call for improvements in the ICFs to protect the rights of future research subjects enrolled in clinical trials in the UAE.
Massage therapy: Significance and relevance to professional practice.

While many individuals utilize massage therapy, there is a relative paucity of research on its effectiveness. In addition to a lack of familiarity with documented massage therapy effects, practicing psychologists may not be aware of the training, experience, and credentials required for massage ther
African American mothers use stories for family sexuality education.

Purpose To examine the sexual knowledge and cultural values transmitted by stories from African American mothers to their adolescent daughters. Method Narrative analysis. Stories from 11 mothers were recorded and transcribed by entering interview narratives into Qualpro, a computerized data management program, and examined using a narrative analysis method. Results Analysis revealed that mothers used story telling as a strategy for family sexuality education. The mothers used stories from their own experiences to accomplish socialization/enculturation and to discourage their daughters from making the same mistakes that they reportedly made (such as becoming pregnant during the teenage years). Findings supported the fact that stories served as cultural artifacts that describe the cultural pathways of a group of African Americans mothers and daughters. Implications It is important for nurses to have an awareness of the importance of ethnocentric models for community health nursing practice and culturally sensitive assessment tools for adolescent sexuality education programs.
Polytypic transformations in SiC: the role of TEM

Abstract In this paper, the structure of SiC is briefly reviewed and a recent dislocation model for polytypic transformation is explained. The model is based on the asymmetry in the mobility of partial dislocations in SiC. For this reason, the nature of dislocations in SiC is also considered and the asymmetry in dislocation velocity is attributed to the different core structure of the two partial dislocations. Following the description of the polytypic transformation model, some experiments in its support that employ transmission electron microscopy are presented.
Statistical tests of the IBM PC pseudorandom number generator

The widespread use of IBM personal computers in biomedical research and medical practice is evidenced by a variety of journal articles. Many of the application programs are written in the BASIC language, they model a stochastic process, and they depend on the Microsoft random number generator. Unfortunately, the Microsoft generator has exhibited a number of flaws including, for some seeds, a lack of uniformity of generated sequences of numbers, and serial correlation within such sequences. This paper provides evidence of these problems for several seeds, and provides suggestions for acceptable seeds which ensure that the generated sequences of numbers pass two fundamental statistical tests for randomness.
Analytical Periodic Motions of a Parametric Oscillator With Quadratic Nonlinearity

In this paper, the analytical solutions of periodic motions in a parametric oscillator are presented by the finite Fourier series expansion, and the stability and bifurcation analysis of periodic motions are performed. Numerical illustrations of periodic motions are presented through phase trajectories and analytical spectrum.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
Sparse Bayesian graphical models for RPPA time course data

Advances in functional proteomic technologies have significantly enriched our knowledge of protein functions and their interactions in bio-molecular pathways. We discuss inference for RPPA (reverse phase protein array) data that measure the expression of the protein markers over time. We exploit the dynamical nature of the experiment to build a directed network of protein interactions. For this, we employ a Bayesian graphical model with an informative prior that favors sparsity. Conditional on the network, we model dependence at the level of latent binary indicators rather than the raw expression measurements. One of the key features of the proposed approach is a hierarchical model that allows for the dependence structure to be shared across different experiments, in the case of the motivating application across different drugs and doses. This is critical to facilitate meaningful inference with the limited available sample sizes. The second key feature is a sparsity inducing prior on the dependence structure.
Apoptosis: Reprogramming and the Fate of Mature Cells

Apoptosis is essential for embryogenesis, organ metamorphosis, and tissue homeostasis. In embryonic stem cells, self-renewal is balanced with proliferative potential, inhibition of differentiation, and prevention of senescence and apoptosis. Growing evidence supports the role of apoptosis in self-renewal, differentiation of pluripotent stem cells, and dedifferentiation (reprogramming) of somatic cells. In this paper we discuss the multiple roles of apoptosis in embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and reprogramming of differentiated cells to pluripotency. The role of caspases and p53 as key effectors in controlling the generation of iPSC is emphasized. Remarkably, the complication of apoptosis arising during reprogramming may provide insights into technical improvements for derivation of iPSC from senescent cells as a tool for modeling aging-related diseases.