cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Qualitative and Quantitative Light Microscopic Study of the Inferior Olivary Complex in the Adult Staggerer Mutant Mouse

In the homozygous staggerer (sg/sg) mutant mouse, most of the Purkinje cells (the primary targets for olivocerebellar climbing fibers) are missing or ectopic. In this study, the organization and cell number of the inferior olivary complex in sg/sg were determined and compared to the inferior olive of the wildtype (+ / +) mouse. Our results indicate that there is a marked disorganization and loss of almost 60% of the cells within the inferior olivary complex. This suggests that the inferior olive may be secondarily affected by the staggerer gene due to the defects in its main target cell, the Purkinje cell.
Assessing the health of open source communities

Before contributing to a free or open source software project, understand the developers, leaders, and active users behind it. The computing world lauds many Free/Libre and open source software offerings for both their reliability and features. Successful projects such as the Apache httpd Web server and Linux operating system kernel have made FLOSS a viable option for many commercial organizations. While FLOSS code is easy to access, understanding the communities that build and support the software can be difficult. Despite accusations from threatened proprietary vendors, few continue to believe that open source programmers are all amateur teenaged hackers working alone in their bedrooms. But neither are they all part of robust, well-known communities like those behind Apache and Linux.
The Rights of ‘Return’: Ethnic Identities in the Workplace among Second-Generation Indian-American Professionals in the Parental Homeland

This article explores the salience of ethnicity for second-generation Indian-American professionals who ‘return’ from the US to their parental homeland, India. Drawing on in-depth interviews with 48 second-generation Indian-Americans in India, it examines when and how they adopt ethnic identities in the workplace. My findings suggest that, bolstered by their transnational experiences and backgrounds, returnees construct ethnic identities and utilise ethnic options that reflect the cultural and economic environments of their adopted homeland. At the same time, and often contemporaneously, work relationships, experiences and personal interactions with those they encounter in the parental homeland factor into their transnational identity constructions. Also proposed is a preliminary framework within which to explore the conditions that facilitate the construction and assertion of returnees’ ethnic identities in the workplace in India.
Rapid and Efficient Clearance of Blood-borne Virus by Liver Sinusoidal Endothelium

The liver removes quickly the great bulk of virus circulating in blood, leaving only a small fraction to infect the host, in a manner characteristic of each virus. The scavenger cells of the liver sinusoids are implicated, but the mechanism is entirely unknown. Here we show, borrowing a mouse model of adenovirus clearance, that nearly all infused adenovirus is cleared by the liver sinusoidal endothelial cell (LSEC). Using refined immunofluorescence microscopy techniques for distinguishing macrophages and endothelial cells in fixed liver, and identifying virus by two distinct physicochemical methods, we localized adenovirus 1 minute after infusion mainly to the LSEC (∼90%), finding ∼10% with Kupffer cells (KC) and none with hepatocytes. Electron microscopy confirmed our results. In contrast with much prior work claiming the main scavenger to be the KC, our results locate the clearance mechanism to the LSEC and identify this cell as a key site of antiviral activity.
General Transcription Factor IIA-γ Increases Osteoblast-specific Osteocalcin Gene Expression via Activating Transcription Factor 4 and Runt-related Transcription Factor 2

ATF4 (activating transcription factor 4) is an osteoblast-enriched transcription factor that regulates terminal osteoblast differentiation and bone formation. ATF4 knock-out mice have reduced bone mass (severe osteoporosis) throughout life. Runx2 (runt-related transcription factor 2) is a runt domain-containing transcription factor that is essential for bone formation during embryogenesis and postnatal life. In this study, we identified general transcription factor IIAγ (TFIIAγ) as a Runx2-interacting factor in a yeast two-hybrid screen. Immunoprecipitation assays confirmed that TFIIAγ interacts with Runx2 in osteoblasts and when coexpressed in COS-7 cells or using purified glutathione S-transferase fusion proteins. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assay of MC3T3-E1 (clone MC-4) preosteoblast cells showed that in intact cells TFIIAγ is recruited to the region of the osteocalcin promoter previously shown to bind Runx2 and ATF4. A small region of Runx2 (amino acids 258–286) was found to be required for TFIIAγ binding. Although TFIIAγ interacts with Runx2, it does not activate Runx2. Instead, TFIIAγ binds to and activates ATF4. Furthermore, TFIIAγ together with ATF4 and Runx2 stimulates osteocalcin promoter activity and endogenous mRNA expression. Small interfering RNA silencing of TFIIAγ markedly reduces levels of endogenous ATF4 protein and Ocn mRNA in osteoblastic cells. Overexpression of TFIIAγ increases levels of ATF4 protein. Finally, TFIIAγ significantly prevents ATF4 degradation. This study shows that a general transcription factor, TFIIAγ, facilitates osteoblast-specific gene expression through interactions with two important bone transcription factors ATF4 and Runx2.
Picosecond time scale optical coherence experiments in mixed molecular crystals: pentacene in naphthalene

Abstract Picosecond time scale high-power pulse optical coherence measurements including photon echo and the stimulated photon echo are obtained with a mode-locked dye laser synchronously pumped by a double Q -switched and mode-locked Nd: YAG laser. Effects on coherence arising from excitation with gaussian laser pulses rather than square pulses are examined. Preliminary echo decay measurements are reported.
Much of Politics Is Still Local: Multi‐State Lobbying in State Interest Communities

We explore the nationalization of state lobbying communities by examining all lobbying registrations held by organizations in the 50 states in 1997, with special attention given to the frequency of multi-state registrations. Following discussion of the meanings and sources of nationalization among state interest communities, we develop and analyze several measures of the level of localism, examining what factors drive variation in multiple state registrations across group types and states. Finally, we discuss the substantive and measurement implications of the nationalization of state interest communities. Our findings identify an interesting paradox of interest representation before state legislatures: although lobbying responses and techniques may have become more nationalized, the composition of state interest communities remains predominantly local.
Rheological characterization of diltiazem HCl/cellulose wet masses using a mixer torque rheometer

Abstract The objective of the present investigations was to study the rheological behavior of wet powder masses containing two commonly used cellulose ethers, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC), using a mixer torque rheometer. In order to simulate a real formulation, diltiazem HCl (DTZ) (40% loading) was used as part of the substrate powder mass. Hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) was used as the binder. Since both the cellulose ethers used for the study are water soluble, isopropyl alcohol (IPA) was used as the wet massing liquid. For comparison purposes, microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) was used as a reference material. In addition, pelletization studies of these powder formulations were carried out to establish a critical window of the wet massing liquid needed for successful extrusion/spheronization. The rheological behavior of the wet powder masses was studied as a function of mixing time and amount of wet massing liquid (IPA). The rheological profiles of wet masses of DTZ–MCC and DTZ–HEC systems were similar and indicated poor liquid spreading, poor substrate wetting and weak substrate/binder interaction, and exhibited a narrow window of tolerance for the wet massing liquid. In contrast, the rheological profiles of DTZ–HPMC system indicated that this powder system has relatively better liquid spreading, better substrate wetting and higher degree of substrate/binder interaction, and higher liquid retention capability. During pelletization, in contrast to the other two powder systems, the DTZ–HPMC system could be extruded/spheronized using a relatively wider range of IPA level in Nica® extruder/spheronizer without becoming over-wet, which concurs with the observations made from the mixer torque rheometer studies. The study concludes that with DTZ being the common component in the three powder systems, the critical liquid requirement of the three powder systems is a function of the individual cellulosic component of the system. Of the three cellulosic excipients, HPMC exhibited a relatively higher affinity for IPA and the ability to be extruded/spheronized successfully with a wider range of the liquid.
A gray code hodoscope and fast buffer for beam particle tagging

Abstract We have developed a scintillation counter hodoscope to measure the vertical position of a high energy charged particle with associated identity information. It may be used to tag beam tracks seen in detectors with poorer time resolution, such as bubble or spark chambers. The hodoscope consists of six overlapping planes of plastic scintillator strips 1 16 in. thick, 3 in. wide, and varying height and vertical spacing. The vertical resolution is 3 32 in. over a 6 in. height. Each plane is connected to a single photomultiplier tube. The output from the six tubes forms the Gray code+ of the vertical position of a track passing perpendicularly through the planes. This and three bits of tagging information form a nine bit word associated with each track. Up to 16 such words are stored in an ECL buffer capable of accepting a new track every 20 ns. The buffer is interfaced to a DGC Supernova computer through CAMAC. The construction and performance of the device are discussed.
A Conceptual Hierarchy for Ecologically Valid Open-Plan Office Research

The use of open plan offices (OPOs) continues to increase globally. This increasing usage is often justified by the need to support more collaborative office work. Such practices as office hoteling...
Academic Advising: Does It Really Impact Student Success?.

Purpose – This study was designed to evaluate academic advising in terms of student needs, expectations, and success rather than through the traditional lens of student satisfaction with the process.Design/methodology/approach – Student participants (n=611) completed a survey exploring their expectations of and experience with academic advising. Principal axis factor analysis, multiple regression analyses, and analyses of variance were applied to student responses.Findings – Six interpretable factors (i.e. advisor accountability, advisor empowerment, student responsibility, student self‐efficacy, student study skills, and perceived support) significantly related academic advising to student success. Differences emerged with regard to advisement of demographically diverse students.Practical implications – The results suggest improvements in advising practices, particularly interventions focused on specific demographic populations.Originality/value – The present study contributes to existing literature by e...
Distinct roles for C3a and C5a in complement-induced tubulointerstitial injury

To prevent injury to host tissues, complement activation is regulated by a number of plasma and membrane-associated proteins, most of which limit C3 and C5 activation. An influx of circulating C3 from a syngeneic host into donor kidneys deficient in Crry (a membrane protein that reduces C3 convertase activity) causes spontaneous complement activation, primarily in the tubulointerstitum, leading to renal failure. To determine the roles of the C3a and C5a anaphylatoxins in tubulointerstitial inflammation and fibrosis, kidneys from Crry−/−C3−/− mice were transplanted into hosts lacking the C3a and/or C5a receptor. While unrestricted complement activation in the tubules was not affected by receptor status in the transplant recipient, C3a receptor deficiency in the recipients led to significantly reduced renal leukocyte infiltration and the extent of tubulointerstitial inflammation and fibrosis, all of which led to preserved renal function. The absence of C5a receptors in recipients was not only inconsequential, but the protective effect of C3a receptor deficiency was also eliminated, suggesting distinct roles of C3a and C5a receptor signaling in this model. There was significant infiltration of the tubulointerstitum with 7/4+F4/80+CD11b+ myelomonocytic cells and Thy1.2+ T cells along injured tubules, and interstitial collagen I and III deposition, all of which were C3a receptor dependent. Thus, blockade of C3a receptor signaling is a possible treatment to reduce renal inflammation and preserve renal function associated with complement activation.
Efficacy and Tolerability of RAL, MVC and ETV used in combination in the treatment of highly treatment experienced HIV infected patients

Background Although the durability of antiretroviral (ARV) efficacy has improved, mainly due to better tolerability, ease of administration (adherence) and potency, some patients still encounter virological and immunological treatment failure. These patients have been on multiple regimens containing nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) and Protease Inhibitor (PI) and have become resistant to one or more of these classes. Hence, the need for salvage therapies using newly approved antiretrovirals that are NRTI, NNRTI and PI sparing is a clinical reality. Raltegravir, maraviroc and etravirine are 3 new agents with distinguished characteristics which are now available however guidelines for their use continue to evolve and none exist yet on using them all in combination. In this study we reviewed patients who were four ARV class experienced and on salvage regimens consisting of a combination of raltegravir, etravirine and maraviroc.
Natural analogues and validation of performance assessment models

Abstract Past studies of natural analogues of radioactive waste repositories and repository sub-systems have examined the qualitative phenomenology and quantitative behavior associated with the several parts of the multibarrier system. These analogue studies have focused on the performance of such diverse subsystems as: (1) the waste form; (2) the engineered barriers (including the canisters by way of natural and archeological analogues); and (3) the site hydrology and geochemistry. These studies have indicated or confirmed the manifestation of various physicochemical phenomena, have generally quantified parameters of certain phenomena on a site-specific basis, and have illustrated some significant potential interactions among phenomena. To date, however, these studies have not been used to validate performance assessment methods in a decisive fashion. As performance assessment methods mature and become more quantitative and as regulatory procedures become better defined (e.g., finalization of the NRC and EPA high-level waste standards), it is anticipated that natural analogues will play a more important role in validating performance assessment methods and supporting the regulatory procedures, of which performance assessment is a part. In the absence of the ability to perform confirmatory experiments over the long time periods of interest, the use of natural analogues is expected to provide one method of providing a reasonable assurance of safety to the scientific community and the general public. As natural analogues are compared to more quantitative performance assessment methods, very specific information on how best to focus research is expected, rather than the broader direction obtained from previous studies of analogues.
Thermodynamics of complexation of aqueous 18-crown-6 with barium ion: apparent molar volumes and apparent molar heat capacities of aqueous (18-crown-6 + barium nitrate) at temperatures (278.15 to 393.15) K, at molalities (0.02 to 0.33) mol · kg−1, and at the pressure 0.35 MPa

Abstract We have measured the densities at T = (278.15 to 368.15) K and heat capacities at T = (278.15 to 393.15) K of aqueous solutions of (18-crown-6 + NaCl) at molalities m = (0.02 to 0.30) mol · kg−1 and at the pressure 0.35 MPa. We have also measured densities and heat capacities of mixtures containing excess 18-crown-6 and excess NaCl. We have applied Young’s rule and have accounted for chemical speciation and relaxation effects to resolve Vϕ and Cp,ϕ for (18-crown-6–Na+,Cl−)(aq) in the mixture. We have also calculated values of the change in volume ΔrVm, the change in heat capacity ΔrCp,m, the change in enthalpy ΔrHm, and the equilibrium quotient log Q for formation of the aqueous (18-crown-6–Na+) complex at T = (278.15 to 393.15) K and m = (0 to 0.30) mol · kg−1. These results are compared with those recently obtained for the complexes of 18-crown-6 with Ba2+ and K+.
Seismic evidence for fluid migration accompanying subsidence of the Yellowstone caldera

[1] Seismicity of the Yellowstone volcanic field, northwest Wyoming, is characterized by swarms of earthquakes (MC 3 months beginning in October 1985. The swarm had unusual characteristics indicative of interaction between seismicity and hydrothermal/magmatic activity: (1) the swarm followed the reversal of caldera-wide uplift of up to 1 m from 1923 to 1984 to subsidence; (2) swarm hypocenters occupied a nearly vertical northwest trending zone, and during the first month of activity, the pattern of epicenters migrated laterally away from the caldera at an average rate of 150 m/d; (3) the dominant focal mechanisms of the swarm were oblique-normal to strike-slip contrasting with the normal-faulting mechanisms typical of the region; and (4) the maximum principal stress axis averaged for the swarm events was rotated 90° from that of the normal background seismicity, from vertical to horizontal with a trend 30° from the strike of the plane defined by the swarm. We examined analytic models that best fit the focal mechanisms and the orientation of the plane defined by the swarm and found that the temporal shift of earthquake activity could be explained by the migration of hydrothermal fluids radially outward from the Yellowstone caldera following rupture of a sealed hydrothermal system within the caldera.
Incredible Years Program Tailored to Parents of Preschoolers With Autism Pilot Results

Objective:This article reports on the acceptability and results from an evaluation of an empirically supported practice, The Incredible Years, tailored to parents of children with autism spectrum d...
Administration of Occupied Japan: First Year

A challenge unique in the history of military government and cultural reform came to the United States when Japan surrendered on September 2, 1945. A nation, virtually intact, was placed, inert, on the international potter's wheel, ready for remolding into "democratic" and "peaceful" patterns. A victorious general was to serve as the sculptor: he would first have to design the new model, then shape the deceptively soft ready clay.
Role of perfectionism and Five-Factor model traits in career indecision

Although perfectionism has been linked to a variety of mental health problems, the relevance of perfectionism in other life domains is just beginning to receive attention. Given the evidence that personality plays an important role in career choice and adjustment, the present study evaluated whether aspects of perfectionism make any unique contribution to the prediction of career indecision beyond certain traits of the Five-Factor model that may also be related to career indecision. Results showed that both maladaptive and adaptive perfectionism accounted for unique variance in career decision-making self-efficacy beyond variance predicted by neuroticism, extraversion, openness, and conscientiousness. In contrast, only maladaptive perfectionism accounted for unique variance in certainty of career commitment beyond variance predicted by neuroticism and conscientiousness. Results are discussed in terms of perfectionism, the role of personality in career indecision, and implications for career counseling.
Direct delivery of procathepsin D to phagosomes: Implications for phagosome biogenesis and parasitism by Mycobacterium

Phagosome maturation is characterized by the sequential acquisition and loss of proteins by the phagocytic vacuole during the formation of an acidic and hydrolytic compartment where degradation of the phagocytosed particle occurs. Transfer of proteins to the maturing phagosome occurs by fusion with a range of vesicles. Here we describe direct fusion of early phagosomes with vesicles that appear to be derived from the biosynthetic pathway. In mouse bone marrow macrophages, the 51 kDa proform of cathepsin D was found in vesicles of the ER/Golgi network that could be discriminated from endosomal vesicles which in turn contained the 46 and 30 kDa processed forms of the enzyme. Procathepsin D was acquired by phagosomes formed around inert particles such as IgG-coated beads and could be "protected" by blocking acidification with Bafilomycin A1. Mycobacterium avium-containing vacuoles from established infections possessed both pro- and processed cathepsin D similar to early bead-containing phagosomes. In contrast phagosomes harboring dead mycobacteria demonstrated markedly enhanced acquisition of the 46kDa form within 4 h post internalization and only low levels of procathepsin D.
Contraction analysis of nonlinear Hamiltonian systems

Nonlinear 2nd-order Hamiltonian dynamics can be decomposed into a hierarchy of two 1st-order complex component dynamics, allowing their exponential stability to be assessed using basic tools in contraction theory. Exponential convergence rates can be explicitly computed based on the system's damping and the Hessian of its complex action. The results can be used to place state and time-dependent complex contraction rates in a controller or observer design, extending elementary linear time-invariant eigenvalue placement. Thus, they can offer an exact alternative to gain-scheduling, where exponential stability guarantees are local and assume slowly varying eigenvectors of the Jacobian. Finally, Hamiltonian and p.d.e. contraction tools are applied to the exact solution of the classical simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) problem in robotics.
Historic PM2.5/PM10 Concentrations in the Southeastern United States—Potential Implications of the Revised Particulate Matter Standard

ABSTRACT This report summarizes a PM2.5/PM10 particulate matter data set consisting of 861 PM2.5/PM10 sample pairs collected with dichotomous samplers by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) from 1982 to 1991. Eight monitoring stations, ranging from urban-industrial to rural-background, were operated across three east-central U.S. states. Annual average PM2.5 concentrations ranged from 12.6 to 21.3 micrograms per cubic meter (μg/m3), with an overall mean of 15.7 μg/m3. Likewise, annual average PM10 concentrations ranged from 17.8 to 33.7 μg/m3, with an overall mean of 23.7 μg/m3. High summer-low winter seasonality was evident, particularly for PM2.5, with the highest monthly PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations in August (26.4 and 37.5 μg/m3, respectively) and the lowest in February (9.9 and 15.3 μg/m3, respectively). A strong association (r2 = 0.84) was found between PM and PM mass with PM mass contributing, on average, 67% of PM10 mass. Applying TVA's PM2 5/PM10 ratio to recent (1993-1995) regional high-volume...
The reaction of Escherichia coli ribosomes with kethoxal.

Summary The dicarbonyl compound kethoxal was used to react accessible regions of E. coli ribosomes. Kethoxal forms a stable complex with ribosomal protein in addition to binding to all ribosomal RNA fractions. Approximately 4 30S proteins and 6 50S proteins from 70S reacted-ribosomes bind kethoxal. The reagent, which is specific for guanine residues in RNA, reacts with 23S, 16S and 5S RNA's in 70S ribosomes. The ratio of moles kethoxal attached to 23S RNA relative to 5S RNA is approximately 3:1. The reactivity of 5S RNA towards kethoxal shows that this molecule is not completely buried in the 50S subunit and has some exposed guanine in single-stranded form.
Squid Tentacle Protein: Extraction and Its Effects on the Quality of Atlantic Pollock Surimi Gels

Abstract Proteins isolated from tentacles of North Atlantic squid (Illex illecebrosus) were used to study the effects on selected quality properties of surimi gels prepared from Atlantic pollock (Pollachius virens). The yield of alkali-soluble protein was 70% and protein concentration of the resulting freeze dried isolate was 79% (dry weight), while the yield of alkali salt-soluble protein was 49% and protein concentration of the isolate was 76% (dry weight). Addition of squid proteins significantly increased texture profiles such as fracturability, hardness, adhesiveness, springiness, gumminess, and chewiness, whereas, cohesiveness remained unchanged. The reddish pigments retained in the squid proteins also made the surimi gels darker and redder. Utilization of proteins isolated from squid tentacles could not only enhance the texture of the surimi gels prepared from Atlantic pollock, but also provide natural color to the finished products which resembled commercial frankfurters.
Diversity in Teacher Education: A Double Helix

Over the past twenty years, the literature in teacher education has built a discourse around diversity. Much of it is predicated on the vast multicultural education literature developing since the late 1970s, a literature that is very much activistand advocacy-oriented. It is also a literature largely ignored by “traditional” academics, ostensibly because education is a low-status academic interest, and also because arguing against the multicultural education discourse is a very unpopular thing to do. In this article, I delve into the largely ignored teacher education literature to find the meaning of diversity as it is conveyed there. In doing so, I develop the idea that diversity in teacher education acts as a double helix. As long as they maintain accreditation, many teacher education programs and schools of education in general have carte blanche to do what they want, and are doing so in relation to diversity. The goings-on operate largely under the academic radar. Thus it is no wonder why many are incredulous that a task group seeking to redesign teacher education at the University of Minnesota, for example, does so out of a concern for “diversity awareness.” Of the many concerns regarding student achievement, the task group operates out of a conviction that teachers’ lack of “cultural competence”—knowledge about students’ backgrounds and frames of reference—is a key contributing factor. Furthermore, the group suggests that underachievement is the result of Acad. Quest. (2010) 23:348–355 DOI 10.1007/s12129-010-9170-2
A Novel MVDR Beamforming Algorithm

We propose a novel algorithm and architecture for minimum variance distortionless response (MVDR) beam-forming. Our approach extracts the least squares residual element directly, and requires only one systolic array for the many look directions.
Outsourcing and climbing a value chain

A value chain is a core concept of manufacturing economics. Yet, business reporters often misuse the concept when discussing global outsourcing in electronic equipment manufacturing. This confusion is, fortunately, correctable with one big insight: There are two distinct strategies for improving a firm's value chain. Once these strategies are clarified, it exposes the problems with today's policy debate about outsourcing.
Effect of cyclosporin A treatment on the in vivo regulation of type I MHC gene expression

Rat soleus muscle consists predominantly of slow type I fibers. We have shown previously through deletion analysis that the highest level of reporter activity that we measure when injecting type I ...
Perfluorinated polymer films with extraordinary UV-laser damage resistance

UV damage thresholds are reported together with other optical characterization results for perfluorinated, frame-supported, micron-thickness polymer membranes. These thresholds are among the highest for any material ever measured in the UV. Transmitted wavefront uniformity for pellicles up to 30 cm in clear aperture approaches the wavefront-error-detection limits of state-of-the-art interferometers. Owing to benign fabrication procedures, these foils are highly defect free and lack the birefringence characteristics typical of extruded polymers.
Scheduling Techniques for Multi-Core Architectures

In this paper we propose a template of architectures that comprise of multiple autonomous processors interconnected via FIFO links. We extend conventional list scheduling algorithm to schedule applications on the proposed distributed architecture template. We explain how a graph representation of an architecture can be used to route operands and how edge weights are assigned to find the shortest legal path an operand can take. We also propose a technique to shorten the path an operand takes by exploiting the copies of the operand distributed over the architecture. Finally, we show the effectiveness of the proposed techniques in reducing execution times of selected benchmarks.
Concept maps and competence charts: a roadmap to understanding the global curriculum

The objective of the paper is to illustrate how program and course concept maps and competence charts can be developed and utilized to help faculty, staff, students, and stakeholders to better understand the global curriculum, identify pedagogical program weaknesses, and create strategies for improvements. Sample concept maps and competence charts are presented and common program weaknesses are identified and discussed.
Population Proteomics: Quantitative Variation Within and Among Populations in Cardiac Protein Expression

Population analysis of gene expression is typically achieved by quantifying levels of mRNA; however, gene expression is also a function of protein translation and turnover. Therefore, a complete understanding of population variation in gene expression requires quantitative knowledge of protein expression within and among natural populations. We used twodimensional fluorescence difference gel electrophoresis (2D-DIGE) to quantitatively compare expression of heart ventricle proteins among 18 individuals in three populations of the teleost fish Fundulus. Among populations, expressions between orthologous proteins and mRNAs were generally positively correlated. Additionally, similar to the pattern of cardiac mRNA expression for the same populations, we found considerable variation in protein expression both within and among populations: Of 408 protein features in 2D gels, 34% are significantly different (P , 0.01) among individuals within a population, 9% differ between populations, and 12% have a pattern of expression that suggests they have evolved by natural selection. Although similar to mRNA expression, the frequency of significant differences among populations is larger for proteins. Similar to mRNA expressions, expressions of most proteins are correlated to the expressions of many other proteins. However, the correlations among proteins are more extensive than the correlation for similar RNAs. These correlations suggest a greater coordinate regulation of protein than mRNA expression. The larger frequency of significant differences among populations and the greater frequency of correlated expression among proteins versus among RNAs suggest that the molecular mechanisms affecting protein expression enhance the differences among populations, and these regulatory steps could be a source of variation for adaptation.
Effective antenna selection in MIMO systems under spatial correlated fading

Multiple input multiple output (MIMO) systems are considered as potential candidates for future high data rates wireless networks. However these systems present a practical problem which is the cost of hardware related to every additional antenna. In this paper, we present an effective suboptimal antenna algorithm based on frame error rate for MIMO systems. It only needs a sorted QR decomposition compared with the optimal antenna selection algorithm which requires an exhaustive search of the pseudo inverse of the channel matrix. The new algorithm achieves good performance that is very close to the optimal algorithm, decreases the computational complexity greatly, and improves the performance of the receivers. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed antenna selection algorithm achieves excellent performance under i.i.d. channel, also the correlated.
In Defense of Intuitive Mathematical Theories as the Basis for Natural Number

Though there are holes in the theory of how children move through stages of numerical competence, the current approach offers the most promising avenue for characterizing changes in competence as children confront new mathematical concepts. Like the science of mathematics, children's discovery of number is rooted in intuitions about sets, and not purely in analytic truths.
Acetylcholine receptors in innervated muscles of dystrophic mdx mice degrade as after denervation.

Acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) are present at the top of the postsynaptic membrane of the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) at very high density, possibly anchored to cytoskeletal elements. The present study investigated whether AChR degradation is affected in animals lacking dystrophin, a protein that is an integral part of the cytoskeletal complex and is missing in Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The animal model for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, the mutant mdx mouse, was used to determine whether disruption of the cytoskeleton, caused by the absence of dystrophin, affects AChR degradation. Of the two populations of junctional AChRs, Rs (expressed in innervated adult muscles) and Rr (expressed in embryonic or denervated muscles), only Rs are affected in mdx animals. In innervated mdx soleus, diaphragm, and sternomastoid muscles, the AChRs have an accelerated degradation rate ( t 1/2 of ∼3–5 d), similar to that acquired by Rs in control muscles after denervation. The Rs in mdx NMJs do not accelerate further when the muscles are denervated. The absence of dystrophin does not affect the degradation rate of the Rr AChRs ( t 1/2 of 1 d), which are expressed after denervation in mdx as in control muscles. These results suggest that dystrophin or an intact cytoskeletal complex may be required for neuronal stabilization of Rs receptors at the adult neuromuscular junctions.
Residual toxicity of pesticides used for control of lepidopteran insects in citrus to the predaceous mite Euseius stipulatus Athias-Henriot (Acarina, Phytoseiidae)

Abstract Fourteen compounds used for suppression of lepidopteran pests of citrus were applied in a commercial manner to citrus trees. Amounts of dislodegable residues, together with mortality and fertility of Euseius stipulatus Athias-Henriot confined on treated foliage, were monitored for up to 100 days post-treatment. Several materials had little effect on E. stipulatus after seven days post-treatment. These included cryolite, trichlorfon, naled, parathion, chlorpyrifos, mevinphos, and a formulation of Bacillus thuringiensis endotoxin. Carbosulfan, thiodicarb, methomyl and two formulations of carbaryl caused mortality for up to 30 days. Fluvalinate and esfenvalerate caused the greatest mortalities for up to 60 days post-treatment. Mortality was correlated with amounts of dislodegable residue for each material tested. There was little effect on fertility by any compound. Zusammenfassung Zur Toxizitat von Pestizidruckstanden auf Euseius stipulatus Athias-Henriot (Acarina, Phytoseiidae) im Zitrusanbau Es wurden 14 Praparate, die im Zitrusanbau zur Bekampfung von Schadlepidopteren eingesetzt werden, in praxisublicherweise auf Zitronenbaume ausgebracht. Bis zu 100 Tagen nach der Behandlung wurden die Ruckstande sowie die Mortalitat und Fertilitat von Euseius stipulatus auf den behandelten Blattern untersucht. Einige Praparate hatten sieben Tage nach der Behandlung einen geringen Effekt auf E. stipulatus. Dazu gehorten Cryolit, Trichlorfon, Parathion, Chlorpyrifos, Mevinphos und eine Bacillus thuringiensis-Endotoxin-Formulierung. Carbosulfan, Thiodicarb, Methomyl und zwei Carbaryl-Formulierungen fuhrten bis zu 30 Tagen nach der Behandlung zu einer erhohten Mortalitat von E. stipulatus. Fluvalinat und Esfenvalrat wiesen die hochsten Mortalitatsraten noch bis zu 60 Tagen nach der Behandlung auf. Die Mortalitat korrelierte bei allen Praparaten mit den Ruckstandsmengen. Allgemein konnte nur ein geringer Effekt auf die Fertilitat festgestellt werden.
Foreign Indebtedness of the U.S. Government At the Close of the American Revolution

This paper attempts to fill a gap in the public finance and economic historical literature by providing a logically consistent estimate of the foreign indebtedness of the U.S. government at the close of 1783. It recognizes that previous major studies providing estimates of this debt differ conceptually and also show some basic accounting deficiencies. The paper introduces a simple methodology for developing an estimate of the postrevolutionary debt, generates figures using this methodology, and finally updates the figures of the earlier major studies.
Molecular docking and ligand specificity in fragment-based inhibitor discovery

Fragment screens have successfully identified new scaffolds in drug discovery, often with relatively high hit rates (5%) using small screening libraries (1,000–10,000 compounds). This raises two questions: would other noteworthy chemotypes be found were one to screen all commercially available fragments (>300,000), and does the success rate imply low specificity of fragments? We used molecular docking to screen large libraries of fragments against CTX-M β-lactamase. We identified ten millimolar-range inhibitors from the 69 compounds tested. The docking poses corresponded closely to the crystallographic structures subsequently determined. Notably, these initial low-affinity hits showed little specificity between CTX-M and an unrelated β-lactamase, AmpC, which is unusual among β-lactamase inhibitors. This is consistent with the idea that the high hit rates among fragments correlate to a low initial specificity. As the inhibitors were progressed, both specificity and affinity rose together, yielding to our knowledge the first micromolar-range noncovalent inhibitors against a class A β-lactamase.
The E. coli SufS-SufE sulfur transfer system is more resistant to oxidative stress than IscS-IscU

During oxidative stress in Escherichia coli, the SufABCDSE stress response pathway mediates iron–sulfur (Fe–S) cluster biogenesis rather than the Isc pathway. To determine why the Suf pathway is favored under stress conditions, the stress response SufS–SufE sulfur transfer pathway and the basal housekeeping IscS–IscU pathway were directly compared. We found that SufS–SufE cysteine desulfurase activity is significantly higher than IscS–IscU at physiological cysteine concentrations and after exposure to H2O2. Mass spectrometry analysis demonstrated that IscS–IscU is more susceptible than SufS–SufE to oxidative modification by H2O2. These important results provide biochemical insight into the stress resistance of the Suf pathway.
Surface and core wetting effects of surfactants in oil-based drilling fluids

Abstract Surfactants are used in oil-based drilling fluids to emulsify water and to ensure that cuttings are wetted by oil. The products used are based on drilling conditions and are essentially the same for traditional oil-based and synthetic oil-based fluids. Although much of these surface active materials adsorb on cuttings and filter cake, it is still likely that core samples are exposed to significant concentrations. Additional contamination can occur in subsequent core tests if the oil samples used are themselves contaminated with the drilling fluid. Commercial surfactant packages from several sources have been selected for examination of their effects on the tests normally used to assess the extent of wetting change in crude oil/brine/mineral systems. These products were characterized with respect to their interfacial properties by measurements of interfacial tension as a function of concentration and brine composition. Wetting tests include measurements of contact angles on smooth mineral surfaces and rates of imbibition into porous media. The results show that even very low concentrations of surfactants, much lower than the amounts recommended for use in drilling fluids, can affect the wetting properties of mica surfaces and Berea sandstone cores.
Role of Neutrophils in the Pathogenesis of Acute Inflammatory Liver Injury

Polymorphonuclear leukocytes (neutrophils) are essential in the defense against invading microorganisms, tissue trauma or any inciting inflammatory signals. Hepatic infiltration of neutrophils is an acute response to recent or ongoing liver injury, hepatic stress or unknown systemic inflammatory signals. Once neutrophils reach the liver, they can cause mild-to-severe tissue damage and consequent liver failure. For neutrophils to appear in the liver, neutrophils have to undergo systemic activation (priming) by inflammatory mediators such as cytokines, chemokines, complement factors, immune complexes, opsonized particles and other biologically active molecules, e.g., platelet activating factor. Neutrophils accumulated in the hepatic microvasculature (sinusoids and postsinusoidal venules) can extravasate (transmigrate) into the hepatic parenchyma if they receive a signal from distressed cells. Transmigration can be mediated by a chemokine gradient established towards the hepatic parenchyma and generally involves orchestration by adhesion molecules on neutrophils (beta(2) integrins) and on endothelial cells (intracellular adhesion molecules, ICAM-1). After transmigration, neutrophils adhere to distressed hepatocytes through their beta(2) integrins and ICAM-1 expressed on hepatocytes. Neutrophil contact with hepatocytes mediate oxidative killing of hepatocytes by initiation of respiratory burst and neutrophil degranulation leading to hepatocellular oncotic necrosis. Neutrophil-mediated liver injury has been demonstrated in a variety of diseases and chemical/drug toxicities. Relevant examples are discussed in this review.
Energy based model for temperature dependent behavior of ferromagnetic materials

Abstract An energy based model for temperature dependent anhysteretic magnetization curves of ferromagnetic materials is proposed and benchmarked against experimental data. This is based on the calculation of macroscopic magnetic properties by performing an energy weighted average over all possible orientations of the magnetization vector. Most prior approaches that employ this method are unable to independently account for the effect of both inhomogeneity and temperature in performing the averaging necessary to model experimental data. Here we propose a way to account for both effects simultaneously and benchmark the model against experimental data from ~5 K to ~300 K for two different materials in both annealed (fewer inhomogeneities) and deformed (more inhomogeneities) samples. This demonstrates that this framework is well suited to simulate temperature dependent experimental magnetic behavior.
Energy Levels of the O 16 Nucleus

A discussion of the energy levels of the ${\mathrm{O}}^{16}$ nucleus is given on the basis of an $\ensuremath{\alpha}$-particle model. A considerable number of excited states are calculated under the assumption that the higher order rotation-vibration interactions can be neglected. The positions of the levels depend upon four parameters, three of which relate to the potential while the fourth measures the effective radius of the nucleus. Two possible correlations between the observed and predicted levels are made. The first identification, which appears to be somewhat the more satisfactory, succeeds in correlating sixteen levels in the range from 0 to 13.25 Mev with regard to their positions, angular momenta and parities. Five levels are predicted in the range from 9.5 to 13.8 Mev which do not appear to have been observed. However, three levels have been found in this range but as yet their spins and parities have not been determined and no attempt has been made to assign them. The effective radius of the ${\mathrm{O}}^{16}$ nucleus is found to be 2.5\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{\ensuremath{-}13}$ cm which is somewhat smaller than might have been expected.
Hybrid Launch Vehicle Trajectory Assumptions Analysis

The assumptions associated with modeling the Return to Launch Site (RTLS) trajectory for a Hybrid Launch Vehicle (HLV) are analyzed and documented in this study. The key assumptions that are identified come from the trajectory optimizer behavior. Specifically, the variables controlled by the optimizer, the active constraints, and the overall constraint margins for the trajectory. Also identified in this study is the method of RTLS performed by the vehicle. In support of this analysis, additional computational work is performed. Using MATLAB, the trajectory data is run through a parsing script to enable a one-to-one comparison of trajectories from different sources, and a reverse engineering script is used to calculate any critical parameters that may have been omitted from a trajectory data set. The provided data and calculated data, along with the trajectory classification and identified assumptions are stored using a Microsoft Access database. The logical analysis, as well as visual analysis is performed in a tool created using Rave, an open-source MATLAB toolbox.
The Cystostereum Pini-Canadense Complex in North America

ABSTRACTCystostereum pini-canadense (Aphyllophorales, Corticiaceae) comprises two geographical races in North America. These are designated as taxonomic subspecies: C. pini-canadense ssp. pini-cana...
Decision-making for patients with resectable breast cancer: individualized decisions for and by patients and their physicians

Decisions regarding the use of adjuvant cytotoxic and hormonal therapies for women with breast cancer ideally should be made jointly by the patient and oncologist. For patients to be adequately involved in this decision-making process, they must be provided with appropriate education regarding the potential benefits and risks of adjuvant therapies. The recommended steps for doing this are: 1) understand baseline prognosis with locoregional therapy (surgery, radiation, or both) alone for the individual patient at hand; 2) determine the estimated benefit afforded by adjuvant therapy options for the individual patient; 3) estimate the risk of side effects of adjuvant therapy options; 4) convey the above information to the individual patient; 5) facilitate the individual patient's decision regarding adjuvant systemic therapy; and 6) support the patient's decision. Two computer-based tools (Numeracy and Adjuvant!) are available to facilitate this process.