cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
14 Yeast Protein Microarrays

Publisher Summary Protein microarrays are the arrays of protein, or in the case of yeast, nearly the entire proteome, which will expedite the study of the proteome by providing a platform to elucidate a protein's function and the way it relates to other proteins on a global scale. This chapter discusses many challenges and options that exist in designing a yeast protein array and the many questions that have been addressed using this technology, predominantly in the form of functional protein microarrays. All technologies involving proteins are challenged by the large scale of the proteome and the difficulty in working with proteins, given that their chemistry and solubility are much more variable. The goals of proteomics and a sample of the common technologies applied to each are listed in tabulated form in the chapter. Many techniques have been used to address different aspects of these goals. Mass spectrometry has been used to identify protein complexes, the components of the yeast nuclear pore complex, and to catalogue 1484 proteins from yeast in log-phase. By using this technique, it is difficult, but not impossible, to determine if a protein interaction is a direct, or binary, interaction or if it is an indirect interaction, mediated by other components of the complex.
The Interaction of an Eastward-Flowing Current and an Island: Sub- and Supercritical Flow

An eastward-flowing current of a homogeneous fluid with velocity U, contained in a channel of width L, impinges on an island of width of O(L), and the resulting interaction and dynamics are studied for values of the supercriticality parameter, b 5 bL 2 /U, both larger and smaller than p 2 . The former case is subcritical with respect to Rossby waves, and the latter is supercritical. The nature of the flow field depends strongly on b, and in particular, the nature of the flow around the island and the proportion of the flow passing to the north or south of the island are sensitive to b and to the position of the island in the channel. The problem is studied analyticallyinarelativelysimple,nonlinearquasigeostrophicandadiabaticframeworkandnumericallywitha shallow-water model that allows a qualitative extension of the results to the equator. Although the issues involved are motivated by the interaction of the Equatorial Undercurrent and the Galapagos Islands, the analysis presented here focuses on the fundamental issue of the distinctive nature of the flow as a function of Rossby wave criticality.
Surface modification and modulation in microstructures: controlling protein adsorption, monolayer desorption and micro-self-assembly

The surface-to-volume ratio increases with decreasing scale, thus, controlling and changing the surface properties of microstructures can be a powerful tool in the design, fabrication and use of microsystems. This paper overviews several recent projects that utilize the modulation of surfaces from hydrophobic to hydrophilic and vice versa, or from protein adsorbing to non-fouling, with applications in biomedical microdevices and self-assembling microelectromechanical systems.
A methodological approach to optimize acquisition time for clinical I-124 PET/CT

1518 Objectives I-124 is evolving to be a capable molecular targeted imaging isotope and more broadly available; the study quantitatively evaluated the optimal acquisition time of clinical I-124 imaging utilizing time-of-flight PET/CT. Methods I-124 imaging (thyroid to abdomen) was performed in 5 patient (101±28kg) 4 days after 5.4±0.4 mCi activity injection on a Gemini TF 64 PET/CT with 10min/bed acquisition time. 40 PET with varying frame durations per bed position were reconstructed from list-mode data giving effective acquisition times (3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 min/bed). ROIs were placed on lesions and normal tissues (thyroid, breast tissue, fat, aorta, inferior/superior vena cava, heart, liver, kidney and GI track). SUVmax was measured and a blinded visual review was performed by experienced nuclear medicine attending. Results were compared to the local standard 10min/bed PET. Results The blinded visual assessment revealed that image quality was rated consistently to be comparable for time frames of 6 to 9min/bed compared to the local standard 10min/bed; shorter bed times revealed more ‘spotty’ and inconsistent uptake with decreasing acquisition time. The quantification demonstrated SUVmax for ‘intense’ uptake tissues: thyroid (SUV±SD: 8.7±3.3), cardio-vascular heart (7.0±2.4) and GI track (6.9±1.3) versus ‘cooler’ uptake tissues: breast tissue (0.9±0.4), fat (0.4±0.2), liver (3.8±1.1) and kidney (3.5±0.9). Comparing to 10min/bed, no significant variance of SUVmax was found in PET (6 to 9min/bed) for both lesions and normal tissues (p>0.1). A trend that BMI impacts image quality was noted which appeared to be not impacted by extending the acquisition time. Conclusions This study demonstrated an approach to optimize acquisition time for I-124 PET/CT. It found that reducing acquisition time by 40% comparing to local standard protocol did not impact image quality or quantification
Unexpected hemorrhage: An unusual and potentially catastrophic clinical challenge

Purpose Unexpected bleeding or hemorrhage related to the development of acquired factor VIII inhibitors is an emerging clinical challenge in patients. Symptoms can occur suddenly with bleeding and/or bruising that is excessive relative to the degree of injury or severity of a comorbid condition. Diagnosis is difficult, and bleeding can quickly become life threatening if not treated promptly. This review provides current information, using a patient case scenario, to improve awareness and recognition of patients presenting unexpectedly with excessive bleeding of unknown etiology. Data sources To complete this review, a search of English-language publications was conducted using Medline and CINAHL databases (1966–2010). Conclusions Although development of acquired factor VIII inhibitors is rare, its incidence is increasing in many different patient care settings. Improved awareness and recognition is needed to mitigate the significant patient morbidity and mortality that can occur without rapid and timely treatment by experienced hematology specialists. Implications for practice Nurse practitioners, as front-line clinicians treating patients in various therapeutic areas, may be the first healthcare professionals who see patients with this disorder. Increased knowledge and awareness of this rare but potentially catastrophic cause of excessive bleeding can improve prompt treatment and optimize patient outcomes.
Calcium oxalate crystals in tribe Galegeae (Leguminosae) including foliar crystal macropattern development in Caragana frutex

Galegeae was reported in 1987 to be unique among papilionoid tribes because calcium oxalate crystals were shown to be mostly lacking. We surveyed leaves of 45 species from 20 genera, mostly from he...
Sabellaria reef masses in Delaware Bay

Along the western shore of Delaware Bay the polychaetous annelidSabellaria vulgaris builds reefs which are formed of sand grains cemented together in rounded masses of dwelling tubes. They occur principally near the low tide line on sandy beaches in the lower part of the bay, where higher salinity waters, turbulence from wave action, a supply of sand, and a firm or hard substrate occur together. These reefs have important geological and biological effects on the immediate environment, modifying and stabilizing beach sediments, and supporting a distinct community of associated organisms.
Caracterización de las tácticas de pesca en la pesquería multiespecífica de crustáceos demersales en Chile

Resumen es: Cada operacion de pesca en pesquerias multiespecificas puede ser descrita por medio del analisis de la proporcion de especies en la captura, area y arte ...
Mixed messages: Resistance and reappropriation in rave culture

This essay concerns the dynamic tension between resistance and reappropriation in the youth subcultural practice of raving. We argue that the transgressive potential of underground rave culture lies primarily in its privileging of communion, which is facilitated along the intersecting axes of social space, authorship, the body, and the drug Ecstasy. The commodification of rave culture is demonstrated to be linked to a shifting consciousness reflected in changing attitudes toward Ecstasy, the relocation of dance culture into clubs, and the redefinition of the DJ as artist and superstar. A concluding section considers the implications of resistance and reappropriation in rave culture for social change and the exercise of power.
Optimizing resources for the surgical care of children: An American Pediatric Surgical Association Outcomes and Clinical Trials Committee Consensus Statement

The United States' healthcare system is facing unprecedented pressures: the healthcare cost curve is not sustainable while the bar of standards and expectations for the quality of care continues to rise. Systems committed to the surgical treatment of children will likely require changes and reorganization. Regardless of these mounting pressures, hospitals must remain focused on providing the best possible care to each child at every encounter. Available clinical expertise and hospital resources should be optimized to match the complexity of the treated condition. Although precise criteria are lacking, there is a growing consensus that the optimal combination of clinical experience and hospital resources must be defined, and efforts toward this goal have been supported by the Regents of the American College of Surgeons, the members of the American Pediatric Surgical Association, and the Society for Pediatric Anesthesia (SPA) Board of Directors. The topic of optimizing outcomes and the discussion of the concepts involved have unfortunately become divisive. Our goals, therefore, are 1) to provide a review of the literature that can provide context for the discussion of regionalization, volume, and optimal resources and promote mutual understanding of these important terms, 2) to review the evidence that has been published to date in pediatric surgery associated with regionalization, volume, and resource, 3) to focus on a specific resource (anesthesia), and the association that this may have with outcomes, and 4) to provide a framework for future research and policy efforts.
Cloning and characterization of the proximal promoter region of the mouse glutamate-L-cysteine ligase regulatory subunit gene.

We describe upregulation of the mRNA for the mouse glutamate-cysteine ligase regulatory subunit gene (Glcl-r) in Hepa-1 cells treated with β-napthoflavone (BNF) and tert-butylhydroquinone (tBHQ). A 2-kb fragment of the proximal promoter region of the gene was cloned and sequenced, and sequence analysis reveals a high degree of homology when compared to the human glutamate-cysteine ligase regulatory subunit gene promoter. Primer extension analysis indicates a major transcription start site 218 bp upstream of the translation start codon in a CpG-rich region, suggesting that transcription is Sp1 mediated. Reporter constructs containing nested deletion fragments of the Glcl-r promoter demonstrate that regulatory elements sufficient for basal and tBHQ-inducible expression lie between −273 and −787 bp relative to the translation start codon and that the distal promoter may contain negative regulatory elements.
Five new species inPelea (rutaceae) hawaiian plant studies 108

Based on morphology, the author describes five new species ofPelea (Rutaceae) in the Hawaiian flora.
Design and performance evaluation of overcurrent protection schemes for silicon carbide (SiC) power MOSFETs

Overcurrent protection of silicon carbide (SiC) MOSFETs remains a challenge due to lack of practical knowledge. This paper presents two overcurrent protection methods to improve the reliability and overall cost of the SiC MOSFET based converter. First, a solid state circuit breaker (SSCB) composed primarily by a Si IGBT and a commercial gate driver IC is connected in series with the DC bus to detect and clear overcurrent faults. Second, the desaturation technique using a sensing diode to detect the drain-source voltage under overcurrent faults is implemented as well. The design considerations and potential issues of the protection methods are described and analyzed in detail. A phase-leg configuration based step-down converter is built to evaluate the performance of the proposed protection schemes under various conditions, considering variation of fault type, decoupling capacitance, protection circuit parameters, etc. Finally, a comparison is made in terms of fault response time, temperature dependent characteristics, and applications to help designers select a proper protection method.
Investigation of coupled air-water turbulent boundary layers using direct numerical simulations

We perform direct numerical simulation of air and water turbulence in a Couette flow. The air-water interface is kept flat, and the coupling between the two fluids is through continuity of velocity and shear stress at the interface. True air-to-water ratios of density and viscosity are used in the simulation to illustrate features of air-water coupled boundary layers. Our analysis of statistics of the velocity, vorticity, and turbulent kinetic energy budget confirms known features, notably the similarity of the airside interface boundary layer to wall boundary layer. Our study obtains new insights on the characteristics of the waterside motions. Compared to the airside, waterside turbulence structures are more persistent and larger in scale, which dominate the interface signatures. The interface boundary layer on the waterside possesses unique features that are intermediate between but qualitatively different from wall boundary layer and free-slip surface layer. On the waterside, as the interface is approached, enstrophy and viscous dissipation first decrease together, with higher turbulence mixing and production than the airside, and then increase sharply in response to airside stress fluctuations. The waterside turbulence is characterized by interface-connected, hairpin, and quasistreamwise vortices that are closely related to each other in their evolutions. Conditional average using a variable-interval space averaging approach illustrates the strong air-water coupling in splat, hairpin vortex, and quasistreamwise vortex events. It is found that waterside velocity gradients are amplified significantly across the interface, with the presence of horizontal jets at splat and quasistreamwise vortex regions. We also study the transport of passive scalars near the air-water coupled boundary layers. As expected, vertical advection associated with coupling air-water coherent structures greatly enhances interfacial transfer of scalars. By considering scalars of different diffusivity and solubility values, we investigate the partition of interfacial transfer between the waterside and airside. We illustrate statistical characteristics of gaslike and heatlike scalars and perform detailed analysis of the scalar variance budget for these to reveal unique features that are substantially different from wall boundary layer or free-slip surface layer.
Centrally trivial automorphisms and an analogue of Connes’s χ(M) for subfactors

April, 1992 Abstract. We study a class of centrally trivial automorphisms for subfactors, and get an upper bound for the order of the group they make (modulo normalizers) in terms of the “dual” principal graph for AFD type II1 subfactors with trivial relative commutant, finite index and finite depth. We prove that this upper bound is attained for many known subfators. We also introduce χ(M,N) for subfactors N ⊂ M as the relative version of Connes’ invariant χ(M), and compute this group for many AFD type II1 subfactors with finite index and finite depth including all the cases with index less than 4 and many Hecke algebra subfactors of Wenzl. In these finite depth cases, the group χ(M,N) is always finite and abelian, and we realize all the finite abelian groups as χ(M,N). Analogy between this topic and modular structure of type III factors is also discussed. As an application, we give some classification results for Aut(M,N). For example, for the subfactors of type A2n+1, there are two and only two outer actions of Z2. One is of the “standard” form and the other is given by the “orbifold” action arising from the paragroup symmetry. As preliminaries, we also prove several statements on central sequence subfactors announced by A. Ocneanu.
Fatigue crack detection in a plate girder using Lamb waves

We report on the application of wafer-type PZT transducers to the detection of flaws in steel plate girders. In these experiments one transducer is used to emit a pulse and the second receives the pulse and reflections from nearby boundaries, flaws, or discontinuities (pitch-catch mode). In this application there will typically be numerous reflections observed in the undamaged structure. A major challenge is to recognize new reflections caused by fatigue cracks in the presence of these background reflections. A laboratory specimen plate girder was fabricated at approximately half scale, 910 mm deep with an h/t ratio of 280 for the web and a b/t ratio of 16 for the flanges, and with transverse stiffeners fabricated with a web gap at the tension flange. Two wafer-type transducers were mounted on the web approximately 175 mm from the crack location, one on each side of the stiffener. The transducers were operated in pitch-catch mode, excited by a windowed sinusoid to create a narrowband transient excitation. The transducer location relative to the crack corresponded to a total included angle of roughly 30 degrees in the path reflecting from the crack. Cyclic loading was applied to develop a distortion-induced fatigue crack in the web at the web gap location. After appearance of the crack, ultrasonic measurements were performed at a range of center frequencies below the cutoff frequency of the A1 Lamb wave mode. Subsequently the crack was extended mechanically to simulate crack growth under primary longitudinal (bending) stress and the measurements were repeated. Direct differencing of the signals showed arrivals at times corresponding to reflection from the crack location, growing in amplitude as the crack was lengthened mechanically. These results demonstrate the utility of Lamb waves for crack detection even in the presence of numerous background reflections.
The direct measurement of lightning current

Abstract Two cathode-ray oscillographs have been designed and employed to record the current in the natural lightning stroke. Three years of operation in the tower of the world's tallest structure, the Empire State Building in New York City, have given many records of strokes to this structure. Automatic and coordinated operation together with sufficient magnitude and time range of recording have enabled current-time characteristics of the direct stroke to be obtained. One instrument gives the low-magnitude, long-time current record of each stroke, while the other yields the high-magnitude, short-time components. Coverage from 50 to 200,000 amperes and from one microsecond to one second is provided with the records related properly in order and time.
Chiral Suppression of Scalar-Glueball Decay

Because glueballs are SU(3){sub Flavor} singlets, they are expected to couple equally to u,d, and s quarks, so that equal coupling strengths to {pi}{sup +}{pi}{sup -} and K{sup +}K{sup -} are predicted. However, we show that chiral symmetry implies the scalar glueball amplitude for G{sub 0} {yields} {bar q}q is proportional to the quark mass, so that mixing with {bar s}s mesons is enhanced and decays to K{sup +}K{sup -} are favored over {pi}{sup +}{pi}{sup -}. Together with evidence from lattice calculations and from experiment, this supports the hypothesis that f{sub 0}(1710) is the ground state scalar glueball.
Use of stochastic resonance for enhancement of low-level vibration signal components

The increase in certain aspects of non-linear system output with the addition of noise to the system input is called stochastic resonance. The possibility of producing and using stochastic resonance to enhance low-level components of signals was investigated. Both a two-component model signal and actual vibration signals were used. The signal analysis system constructed consisted of a multi-component signal, a random or noise component added to the signal and a threshold for signal recognition. The parts of the noise plus original signal augmented signal that exceeded a threshold formed a new signal that was characterised in terms of the magnitudes of signal components. The effects of added noise level on the new signal were ascertained. Stochastic resonance was demonstrated as enhancement of low-level components of the model and actual vibration signals with the effect being dependent on the level of added noise.
Observation of the Change of Synapses After Long-Term Potentiation Induction using Super-Resolution Imaging

Synapses are the fundamental structures for signal transmission in neurons. A synapse is a cell-cell junction composed of pre-synapse and post-synapse between neurons. The structure of synapses is dynamically changing upon external stimuli. In this work, we used super-resolution imaging technique (PALM) to study the synaptic changes after inducing long-term potentiation (LTP). In particular, after LTP induction, we investigated the changes in distances between 1. A presynaptic protein (synapsin and postsynaptic scaffold proteins (Homer1 and PSD95) and 2. Two different postsynaptic scaffold proteins, namely Homer1 and PSD95. We labeled these proteins using photo-activable proteins such as mEOS2, Dronpa, and mGeos, and obtained two-color PALM imaging for each pair of synaptic proteins. Chromatic aberration was corrected for a more precise measurement of the distances. We found out that, after LTP induction, the distance between Homer1 and PSD95 decreased significantly from 330 nm to 90 nm; the distance between synapsin and PSD95 also decreased from 243 nm to 125 nm. Moreover, we carried out fast PALM imaging, which allows us to take super-resolution images every minute, in order to observe the volume change of synapses during LTP. Observation of the time-dependent distribution of PSD95 and Homer1 has shown that the average volume of synapses is increasing after LTP induction from 0.05 μm3 to 0.076 μm3.
Well-Defined Calcium Initiators for Lactide Polymerization

A series of monomeric amide or aryloxide complexes of the form LCaX, where L = CH[CMeNC(6)H(3)-2,6-](2), CH[CMeNC(6)H(4)-2-OMe](2), a bulky tris-pyrazolyl borate, Tp(iPr) or Tp(tBu) or 9-BBN-pz(2) and X = N(SiMe(3))(2) or OC(6)H(3)-2,6-, has been prepared and characterized and investigated in the ring-opening polymerizations of lactide. The compounds (Tp(tBu))CaX in THF are shown to be highly active and stereoselective. The propylene oxide complex (Tp(tBu))Ca(OC(6)H(3)-2,6-).(PO) has been isolated and structurally characterized (single-crystal X-ray) and shown to be inert to the polymerization of PO.
Investigation of low-voltage on-resonance ion selection for Fourier transform mass spectrometry

Low-voltage on-resonance ion selection (LOIS) was recently introduced as an alternative technique for ion selection and storage. Under high pressure conditions and similar to the technique of quadrupolar axialization, unwanted (unselected) trapped ions are eliminated from the analysis cell through collisions with cell plates following orbital expansion. The ions remaining after tens of seconds of mass selection can be detected with better coherence, leading to improvements in ion detection and sensitivity. Here, experiments designed to test ion remeasurement and ion transfer capabilities are presented. Simulations of ion motion give insight into the possible mechanism of ion cooling, which does not appear to be the same as that of the axialization process. Because of its ease of use, lack of need for additional hardware devices, and comparable ion selection results, LOIS is an attractive alternative for trapped ion experiments.
Historical development of wet-weather flow management

The management of wet-weather flow (WWF) is necessary to maintain the quality of urban water resources. Throughout history, strategies have been implemented to control WWF for many reasons, including flood and water quality control, aesthetic improvement, waste removal, and others. A comprehensive literature review has been conducted to determine past strategies and to revisit the historical developments of WWF management. Understanding these past strategies and the development of WWF-management systems over time will aid current and future generations in their WWF-management efforts. This paper summarizes the historical literature review, highlighting the development of WWF management from ancient times to the present. The relationship between past developments, the current state, and the future of WWF management is addressed by identifying several lessons learned.
Stopping traffic: discretionary access control in a multidatabase system

Multidatabase systems are designed to integrate heterogeneous database systems under one schema while maintaining site autonomy. Discretionary access control is a method of database security that allows authorized users to give and remove privileges to the data they own. In this paper we translate discretionary access to multidatabases. The SQL2 syntax can be modified to accommodate multiple sites, while maintaining the proper site autonomy. Maintaining a strict local autonomy involves making sure that any changes that are made to a remote site are also made locally. The partial syntax is defined here with future plans for a complete syntax and simulation of the rules in practice.
Interannual Variations of Tropical Precipitation Patterns

Abstract Seasonal and annual precipitation anomalies, normalized with respect to the standard deviations, are computed for stations between 30°S and 30°N. It is established that the annual anomalies are normally distributed. Spatially averaged anomalies are computed for various regions and their representativeness confirmed. Correlations between the annual average normalized anomalies of the various regions are computed. The results show that simultaneous variations of the zonally oriented circulations of the tropical troposphere occur which are in phase with variations of the Southern Oscillation. The concurrent variations of the intensity of the zonal cells account for most of the observed interannual rainfall variations. Interannual variations in the intensity and position of the meridional Hadley cell seem to play only a minor role.
The Interface of Law and Medical Ethics in Medical Intensive Care

The delivery of medical care in the intensive care setting is subject to various legal principles and processes, as well as important ethical precepts. This article outlines the basic medicine-law interface, explaining the concepts of medical jurisprudence and forensic medicine. It then provides fundamental information about the current American medical malpractice system, including a brief discussion of the elements of a medical malpractice claim, the public policy rationales and goals purportedly undergirding the system, and potential alternatives to the existing medical malpractice system in the United States. Recognizing that the challenge, in the entire range of intensive care as in other medical settings, is adhering in practice to ethical principles while at the same time trying to minimize the providers' possible exposure to legal risks, the article identifies a number of components to the art of delivering care ethically and effectively within a pervasive legal environment, as follows: interfacing positively with the institutional legal counsel and risk management departments; utilizing (as appropriate) clinical practice guidelines or parameters; and pursuing continuing medical-legal education.
The cut-off phenomenon for random reflections

For many random walks on "sufficiently large" finite groups the so-called cut-off phenomenon occurs: roughly stated, there exists a number $k_0$ , depending on the size of the group, such that $k_0$ steps are necessary and sufficient for the random walk to closely approximate uniformity. As a first example on a continuous group, Rosenthal recently proved the occurrence of this cut-off phenomenon for a specific random walk on $SO(N)$. Here we present and [for the case of $O(N)$] prove results for random walks on $O(N), U(N)$ and $Sp(N)$, where the one-step distribution is a suitable probability measure concentrated on reflections. In all three cases the cut-off phenomenon occurs at $k_0 = 1/2 N\log N$.
Heat Transfer Enhancement for Flows in a Channel With Corona Wind Generator

Heat transfer enhancement using corona wind generators in a square channel has been numerically examined in this study. Three configurations of the corona wind generators (separately with 4, 12, and 28 pins) are investigated for their effectiveness in the enhancement of heat transfer as well as the pumping power requirement. To achieve the maximum enhancement in heat transfer, the emitting electrodes of the corona wind generator are flush mounted on the channel walls so that the corona wind produced directly perturbs the boundary layer. The Reynolds number considered varies in a range between 200 and 2000. The influence of electric field on the flow and temperature fields is examined for a wind range of operating conditions. The results show that EHD technique has a great potential for many engineering applications.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Concerted C−N and C−H Bond Formation in a Magnesium-Catalyzed Hydroamination

Coordinatively saturated ToMMgMe (1; ToM = tris(4,4-dimethyl-2-oxazolinyl)phenylborate) is an active precatalyst for intramolecular hydroamination/cyclization at 50 °C. The empirical rate law of −d[substrate]/dt = k′obs[Mg]1[substrate]1 and Michaelis−Menten-type kinetics are consistent with a mechanism involving reversible catalyst−substrate association prior to cyclization. The resting state of the catalyst, ToMMgNHCH2CR2CH2CH═CH2 [R = Ph, Me, —(CH2)5—], is isolable, but isolated magnesium amidoalkene does not undergo unimolecular cyclization at 50 °C. However, addition of trace amounts of substrate allows cyclization to occur. Therefore, we propose a two-substrate, six-center transition state involving concerted C—N bond formation and N—H bond cleavage as the turnover-limiting step of the catalytic cycle.
Trust but Verify: Trial Registration and Determining Fidelity to the Protocol

Clinical trials, like all scientific experiments, are guided by protocols that outline the study design, conduct, and analysis. Deviations from the protocol that cannot be scientifically justified ...
The genetics of sleep disorders

The contribution of genetic components to the pathology of sleep disorders is increasingly recognised as important. Genetic studies have identified genes that may be important in the regulation of circadian rhythms, which in turn determine the time of sleep onset and waking. Recent studies have shown that mutations in hPER2 are associated with autosomal-dominant familial advanced-sleep-phase syndrome. Genetic studies in a canine model of narcolepsy and in knock-out mice have led to the identification of the hypothalamic hypocretin (orexin) neurotransmitter system as a key target for human narcolepsy. The contribution of genetic factors to obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS) has led to a better understanding of this complex disorder that may be part of a larger syndrome associated with respiratory, cardiovascular, and metabolic dysfunction. The aim of this review is to discuss the current knowledge on the role of genetic factors in sleep disorders, in particular circadian disorders, narcolepsy, restless-legs syndrome, and OSAS.
Mass transport and ion pairing effects in electrohydrodynamic mass spectrometry

Abstract The relative effects of mass transport and ion pairing on electrohydrodynamic mass spectrometric sampling efficiency have been assessed using a series of singly-charged quaternary ammonium salts and a doubly-charged diquaternary ammonium salt. Results confirm a mass-dependent sampling bias ascribable to mass transport effects. Ion pairing also affects analyte sampling efficiencies, but there appears to be no mass-dependent bias from this source for the analytes tested. The effects of mass transport and ion pairing are of roughly the same magnitude.
The role of endorphins in animal learning and behavior

The present review examined the influence of endorphins in animal learning and behavior. It was suggested that in learning paradigms involving stress, the stressor elicits the release of endorphins. Given the evidence on endorphin-mediated, stress-induced analgesia, it was further suggested that the stress-induced release of endorphins modulates the aversiveness of the stressor, and as such, affects the learning based on this stressor. A number of learning paradigms, e.g., the conditioned emotional response, preference for signaled shock, conditioned taste aversions, and learned helplessness, were presented in support of this mediation of learning by the endorphins. A possible interaction between the endorphins and adrenocorticotropic hormone was offered as a physiological basis for this mediation.
Industrial Ecology in Practice: The Evolution of Interdependence at Kalundborg

Summary The exchange of wastes, by-products, and energy among closely situated firms is one of the distinctive features of the applications of industrial ecological principles. This article examines the industrial district at Kalundborg, Denmark, often labeled as an “industrial ecosystem” or “industrial symbiosis” because of the many links among the firms. The forces that led to its evolution and to the interdependencies are described and analyzed. Key has been a sequence of independent, economically driven actions. Other potential forms of industrial linkages are critically reviewed in the light of the Kalundborg experience. The evolutionary pattern followed at Kalundborg may not be easily transferable to greenfield developments.
Investigation of a Direct Catalytic Absorption Reactor for Hazardous Waste Destruction

Direct Catalytic Absorption Reactors (DCARs) use a porous solid matrix to volumetrically absorb solar energy. This energy is used to promote heterogeneous chemistry on the catalytic surface of the absorber with fluid-phase reactant species. Experimental efforts at Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) are using a DCAR to destroy hazardous chemical waste. A numerical model, previously developed to analyze solar volumetric air-heating receivers and methane-reforming reactors, is extended in this work to include the destruction of a chlorinated hydrocarbon chemical waste, 1,1,1-trichloroethane (TCA). The model includes solar and infrared radiation, heterogeneous chemistry, conduction in the solid absorber, and convection between the fluid and solid absorber. The predicted thermal and chemical conditions for typical operating conditions at the SNL solar furnace suggest that TCA can be destroyed in a DCAR. The temperature predictions agree well with currently available thermocouple data for heating carbon dioxide gas in the DCAR. Feasibility and scoping calculations show trichloroethane destruction efficiencies up to 99,9997 percent at a trichloroethane flow rate of 1.7 kg/hr may be obtainable with typical SNL solar furnace fluxes. Greater destruction efficiencies and greater destruction rates should be possible with higher solar fluxes. Improvements in reactor performance can be achieved by tailoring the absorber tomore » alter the radial mass flux distribution in the absorber with the radial solar flux distribution.« less
Genetic similarity among pheromone and voltinism races of Ostrinia nubilalis (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae)

The genetic variability of seven European corn borer populations, Ostrinia nubilalis, from North America and Europe was assessed by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) analysis and DNA sequencing. The nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS-1) region (approximately 500 base pair [bp]) and four mitochondrial (mtDNA) regions (1550 bp total) were examined. The smartweed borer, Ostrinia obumbratalis, and south-Western corn borer, Diatraea grandiosella, were used for comparisons. Of 106 restriction sites identified (80 in mtDNA and 26 in ITS-1), none differentiated geographical populations, pheromone races, or voltine ecotypes of the European corn borer. The lack of variation in the ITS-1 of European corn borer was confirmed by DNA sequence analysis. The genetic similarity of European corn borer populations, despite their wide geographical range and physiological differences, may be explained by a relatively recent origin for the voltinism and pheromone races, gene flow among races, and/or expansion from genetic bottlenecks.
The Genotype of the Endosperm and Embryo as it Influences Vivipary in Maize

The development of the maize seed is dependent on the orderly unfolding of events in which each component of the developing caryopsis has a particular role to play. The ultimate control of these events must depend upon numerous genes, which if altered will interfere with normal development. Many mutants of this type have been described, ranging from those which produce relatively slight alteration in the caryopsis to those which prevent practically all development. Among those producing relatively slight changes are mutants which give rise to premature germination. The seeds of these mutants develop normally until late in ontogeny. During the early dough stage the plumule begins to elongate, and the seeds germinate while still attached to the ear. Such mutants have been called viviparous.
Real Time 3D Anaglyph Image Control Using MEMS Sensors

3-D Imaging refers to a technique for creating or enhancing the illusion of depth in an image by presenting two offset images separately to the left and right eye of the viewer. Anaglyph generation is one of the most cost effective methods of spectroscopic 3D imaging. Almost all human activities are related to some motion. In this paper we discuss about a method to control realtime anaglyph images based on the movement of MEMS inertial sensors. The aim is to track the movements of the sensor and accordingly build a system that controls anaglyph images simultaneously. A system to control anaglyph images using MEMS was developed at the end of experiment successfully. This can be further enhanced to develop various systems based on motion tracking and image creation, like human body modeling and gesture recognition and also to other 3D imaging techniques.
A level set method for the semiclassical limit of the Schrödinger equation with discontinuous potentials

We propose a level set method for the semiclassical limit of the Schrodinger equation with discontinuous potentials. The discontinuities in the potential corresponds to potential barriers, at which incoming waves can be partially transmitted and reflected. Previously such a problem was handled by Jin and Wen using the Liouville equation - which arises as the semiclassical limit of the Schrodinger equation - with an interface condition to account for partial transmissions and reflections (S. Jin, X. Wen, SIAM J. Num. Anal. 44 (2006) 1801-1828). However, the initial data are Dirac-delta functions which are difficult to approximate numerically with a high accuracy. In this paper, we extend the level set method introduced in (S. Jin, H. Liu, S. Osher, R. Tsai, J. Comp. Phys. 210 (2005) 497-518) for this problem. Instead of directly discretizing the Delta functions, our proposed method decomposes the initial data into finite sums of smooth functions that remain smooth in finite time along the phase flow, and hence can be solved much more easily using conventional high order discretization schemes. Two ideas are introduced here: (1) The solutions of the problems involving partial transmissions and partial reflections are decomposed into a finite sum of solutions solving problems involving only complete transmissions and those involving only complete reflections. For problems involving only complete transmission or complete reflection, the method of JLOT applies and is used in our simulations; (2) A reinitialization technique is introduced so that waves coming from multiple transmissions and reflections can be combined seamlessly as new initial value problems. This is implemented by rewriting the sum of several delta functions as one delta function with a suitable weight, which can be easily implemented numerically. We carry out numerical experiments in both one and two space dimensions to verify this new algorithm.
Ideology, Party, and Voting in the U.S. Congress, 1959–1980

Current methods of roll-call analysis have practical as well as theoretical shortcomings. We propose here a method based on a spatial theory of voting that overcomes these problems. We apply metric multidimensional unfolding to interest-group ratings of members of Congress in order to obtain a Euclidean spatial configuration of congressmen. Each roll-call vote is then mapped into the configuration of members in a way consistent with spatial theory. Based on 190,000 ratings issued from 1959 to 1980, our empirical analysis demonstrates that a single liberal-conservative dimension accounts for more than 80% of the variance in the ratings. A second dimension, associated with party unity, accounts for 7% of the variance. Approximately 86% of all roll-call voting for the 22 years of our study is consistent with a simple one-dimensional spatial model. The votes that best fit the liberal-conservative dimension are drawn from the government management, social welfare, and foreign policy areas. The votes that best fit the two-dimensional configurations are drawn from the agricultural area.
The future of VLC: potential and limitations

Visible light communication (VLC) is based on modulating inexpensive LEDs that are simultaneously used for illumination. This dual-use approach can offer energy-efficient connectivity as well as high throughput due to the huge unregulated optical spectrum. Since light is easily contained, VLC systems can also exploit spatial resource reuse to effectively form dense networks. Future applications range from mobile Wi-Fi alternatives for large indoor spaces to vehicular communication networks. Although the potential benefits are phenomenal, there are also substantial limitations that must be considered and resolved to best take advantage of the technology. VLC systems suffer from the limited modulation bandwidth of inexpensive LEDs in addition to intersymbol-interference imposed by channel multipath. Spatial reuse requires complex distribution networks that create data transmission bottlenecks. Lighting features must be preserved, further restricting the VLC system. In this talk we explore the potential of this new technology within the context of practical limitations, and present some visions for the future of VLC.
Characterization of juvenile hormone‐binding proteins of hemolymph of Locusta migratoria

The binding of juvenile hormone (JH) by components from hemolymph of adult female Locusta migratoria was characterized to establish whether hemolymph JH-binding proteins could be distinguished from a protein of fat body (BP-1) that may be a JH receptor. Hemolymph was analyzed by the hydroxyapatite assay, gel separation chromatography, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, and density gradient centrifugation. Three fractions that bound JH were separated from whole hemolymph by DEAE cellulose column chromatography, and these differed from all three cytosol-binding components. The major hemolymph component (H-A) showed relatively stable binding of JH, a slight loss of binding capacity after delipidation, and a Kd for JH-I of 16 nM. The Kds for JH-l and JH-lll with unfractionated hemolymph were 26 and 42 nM respectively. The order of effectiveness of competitors for binding of [3H]JH-l was JH-lll > JH-l ≫ methoprene > hydroprene ≫ acids of methoprene and hydroprene. The data indicated that unlabeled JH-lll was bound more effectively than its radioactive counterpart. The sedimentation values determined by sucrose density gradient ultracentrifugation were 13-14 S for hemolymph, and the sedimentation value was not altered by the inclusion of 0.4 M KCl throughout the gradient. The data indicated that H-A resembled the specific JH carriers and differed from the putative receptor of fat body cytosol by several criteria.
High-dose progesterone inhibition of urokinase secretion and invasive activity by SKOV-3 ovarian carcinoma cells: evidence for a receptor-independent nongenomic effect on the plasma membrane.

Urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA) has been implicated in the metastatic potential of ovarian carcinomas of surface epithelial origin. The SKOV-3 human ovarian cancer cell line was tested for uPA secretory responses (enzyme immunoassay of conditioned media) after treatments with sex steroids, human menopausal gonadotropins (hMG), or gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). Secretion of uPA during a 6-h incubation was unaffected by testosterone, estradiol-17β, hMG, or GnRH. Progesterone, at supraphysiological concentrations, suppressed uPA secretion; this reaction was not altered by the progesterone receptor antagonist RU486 or the transcriptional inhibitor actinomycin D. It appears that progesterone exerted a direct biophysical effect on the plasma membrane manifested by an interference with shedding of uPA in exocytotic vesicles. Finally, invasion of SKOV-3 cells into Matrigel was inhibited by progesterone. We suggest that progesterone can disrupt the fluid dynamics of plasma membranes and thereby invoke an antitumorigenic action via inhibition of proteolytic secretions.
Composite Autonomic Scoring Scale for Laboratory Quantification of Generalized Autonomic Failure

An autonomic reflex screen, which consisted of a quantitative sudomotor axon reflex test, orthostatic blood pressure and heart rate response to tilt, heart rate response to deep breathing, the Valsalva ratio, and beat-to-beat blood pressure measurements during phases II and IV of the Valsalva maneuver, tilt, and deep breathing, was used to develop a 10-point composite autonomic scoring scale of autonomic function. The scheme allots 4 points for adrenergic and 3 points each for sudomotor and cardiovagal failure. Each score is normalized for the compounding effects of age and sex. Patients with a score of 3 or less on the composite autonomic scoring scale have only mild autonomic failure, those with scores of 7 to 10 have severe failure, and those with scores between these two ranges have moderate autonomic failure. The sensitivity and specificity of the method were assessed by evaluating the composite autonomic scoring scale in four groups of patients with known degrees of autonomic failure: 18 with multisystem atrophy, 20 with autonomic neuropathy, 20 with Parkinson's disease, and 20 with peripheral neuropathy but no autonomic symptoms. The composite scores (means ± SD) for these four groups, respectively, were as follows: 8.5 ± 1.3, 8.6 ± 1.2, 1.5 ± 1.1, and 1.7 ± 1.3. Patients with symptomatic autonomic failure had scores of 5 or more, those without symptomatic autonomic failure had scores of 4 or less, and no overlap existed in these groups. Thus, autonomic laboratory tests should be useful in grading the degree of autonomic failure.
The development of optical nanosensors for biological measurements

This article discusses and documents the basic concepts of, and developments in, the field of optical nanosensors and nanobiosensors. It describes the progression of this field of research from its birth up to the present, with emphasis on the techniques of sensor construction and their application to biological systems. After a brief overview of the techniques for fabricating nanometer-sized optical fibers, we describe the various types of transducer and bioreceptor molecule presently used for nanosensor and nanobiosensor fabrication.