cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Monitoring long-term DNA storage via absolute copy number quantification by ddPCR.

Long-term storage of DNA is a routine practice in biomedical research, diagnostics and drug discovery. Periodic monitoring is important for early detection of changes in DNA quality and quantity. Existing methods include agarose gel, ultraviolet (UV) absorbance, fluorometric reading and qPCR. However, these methods are either limited by sensitivity or depend on DNA standards, which face the same storage challenges. In this paper, we tested the state-of-the-art droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) technology that can quantify the absolute DNA copy number with no need of a standard curve. We found that ddPCR was very accurate in determining the level of a plasmid DNA standard and was sensitive to DNA loss due to degradation or adsorption. With the ddPCR technology, we found a gradual process of DNA adsorption to several types of low binding tubes, which was unnoticed before. Although modest, adsorption significantly affected recovery of highly diluted DNA (<0.2 μg/mL), which could be rescued by addition of carrier DNA. In conclusion, this paper not only demonstrated that ddPCR is an ideal method for monitoring DNA storage, but also provided an effective approach to improving recovery of highly diluted DNA, which may have broad implications in assay development, diagnostics and forensic sciences.
Exploring Negative Bias Temperature Instability in Tri-Gate MOSFETs through Electrically Detected Magnetic Resonance

For decades, negative bias temperature instability (NBTI) has been on the forefront of transistor reliability concerns. Electrically detected magnetic resonance (EDMR) has provided significant insight regarding NBTI's atomic scale mechanisms in conventional (planar) metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistors (MOSFETs). More recently, however, tri-gate MOSFETs have become the prevailing devices in integrated circuity. In this study, we have investigated the atomic scale mechanisms of the NBTI in tri-gate MOSFETs. Also, for the first time, a direct comparison of EDMR responses is made between similarly processed planar and tri-gate FETs. We have done this by utilizing two EDMR techniques: spin dependent charge pumping and spin dependent trap assisted tunneling (SDTAT). Our results indicate both similarities and differences in the atomic scale mechanisms of NBTI in planar and tri-gate devices. Our work also introduces a new EDMR technique for the observation of NBTI defects generated within gate dielectrics: SDTAT.
Onscreen-guided resection of extra-axial and intra-axial forebrain masses through registration of a variable-suction tissue resection device with a neuronavigation system.

OBJECTIVES To describe a novel surgical technique in which neuronavigation is used to guide a tissue resection device during excision of forebrain masses in locations difficult to visualize optically. STUDY DESIGN Short case series. ANIMALS Six dogs and one cat with forebrain masses (five neoplastic, two nonneoplastic) undergoing excision with a novel tissue resection device and veterinary neuronavigation system. METHODS The animals and resection instrument were coregistered to the neuronavigation system. Surgery was guided by real-time onscreen visualization of the resection instrument position relative to the preoperative MR images. Surgical outcome was evaluated by calculating residual tumor volume according to postoperative MRI. RESULTS The technique was technically simple and led to the collection of diagnostic tissue samples in all cases. Postoperative MRI was available in six cases, two with gross-total resection, three with near-total resection, and one with subtotal resection. CONCLUSION Neuronavigation-guided resection of intra-axial and extra-axial brain masses with the resection device resulted in gross-total or near-total resection in five of six animals with tumors otherwise difficult to visualize. Risk of brain shift limited absolute reliance on navigation images. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE Real-time neuronavigation assistance is a feasible method for guidance and successful resection of brain masses that are poorly visualized because of intra-axial or deep location, tumor appearance, or hemorrhage.
Sustainable land management in Greater Central Asia: an integrated and regional perspective

Edited by Victor Squires and Lu Qi of the Institute of Desertification Studies at the state-run Chinese Academy of Forestry, Sustainable Land Management in Greater Central Asia analyses sustainable...
Cattle in the cane: class formation, agrarian histories, and the temporalities of mining conflicts in the Ecuadorian Andes

A recurring question within literature on resource conflicts is how to explain the origins of local opposition. Many studies begin with the arrival of mining interests. In this paper, however, I si...
Statewide Impact of COVID-19 on Social Determinants of Health - A First Look: Findings from the Survey of the Health of Wisconsin

There is an urgent need to track the early and ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on population health from local to global scales. At the same time, there is an overall lack of U.S. state-specific surveillance data tracking social determinants of health (SDOH) and associations with population well-being, individual mitigation and coping strategies, family dynamics and other economic shocks of the pandemic in populations. Statewide data can offer important insights into how SDOH shape the long-term effects of COVID-19 in the population since implementation of many policies and programs varied widely early on in the pandemic. In May of 2020, the Survey of the Health of Wisconsin (SHOW) program launched a statewide online/phone survey of early and ongoing impacts of COVID-19 on health and well-being across diverse communities and families. The goal of this study is to provide descriptive data including perceived COVID-19 risks, access to and results of COVID-19 antigen testing, individual mitigation and coping strategies, family dynamics and other economic shocks of the pandemic on health and mental health in populations. Key findings include higher rates of testing and perceived past infection from COVID-19 among non-white respondents. Higher economic shifts and job changes in female vs male respondents. Families with children reported overall higher levels of stress, and stress from the pandemic. There were urban and rural differences in changes to access to care. Rural regions, which had a lower prevalence of infections early in the pandemic as compared to urban areas, also reported fewer delays or missed appointments due to COVID-19. Key findings show that SDOH are shaping impacts of health and well-being early on in the pandemic and future longitudinal follow-up will be important to shape policies and programs well into the future.
Characterizing advance care planning, palliative care utilization, and location of end-of-life for adult allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients.

7034Background: The impacts of advance care planning (ACP) on end-of-life (EOL) outcomes in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant (allo HCT) recipients are not well known. ACP includes adva...
Enabling Detection of Plastic Debris on Water Surface Using Wireless Signals

Current systems for monitoring of water surfaces are largely camera-based and remote-sensing based. While remote-sensing based systems have low resolution and cannot provide data for smaller scales of water surface, continuous processing of video footage from vision-based systems can be expensive. In this letter, we propose and evaluate a system for detection of floating debris on water surface by leveraging wireless signals. We detect low-reflecting floating debris such as plastic by sensing their effect on water waves. Such a system can assist the present systems for monitoring of health of water bodies. We carry out our evaluations using a WARP (Wireless Open-Access Research Platform) v3 node and present our initial results for our evaluations in indoor environment and include outdoor data collected over an outdoor swimming pool. The system is able to identify the presence of floating debris and is also able to distinguish between still stagnant water versus water with disturbance and can, hence, also be used to monitor water flow and turbulence.
A Surgeless Diode-Clamped Multilevel Solid-State Circuit Breaker for Medium Voltage DC Distribution Systems

In conventional medium voltage Solid-State Circuit Breakers (SSCBs), series-connected semiconductor switches are used with Metal Oxide Varistors (MOVs) in parallel with each of them to extend the voltage ratings of the breakers without incurring the dynamic voltage unbalance. Besides, for isolating the faults at faster speeds, the clamped surge voltages of the MOVs are always much higher than the system voltages. For those reasons, the voltage ratings of all the switches in the SSCBs have to be overdesigned according to the surge voltage values, which causes high material costs along with nonideal conduction losses in the solid-state circuit breakers employed for medium voltage DC distribution systems. To solve this dilemma, a Surgeless Diode-Clamped Multilevel Solid-State Circuit Breaker has been proposed in this paper. It offers an ultrafast isolation speed with no significant surge voltages or dynamic unbalanced voltage across the semiconductor switches. With these attributes, the proposed SSCB can potentially use the semiconductor switches rated at lower voltages compared to conventional SSCBs and have higher efficiency along with faster isolation speed. The simulation and experimental results are presented to validate the technical feasibility and practical values of the proposed solid-state circuit breaker.
Monetary policy strategies for the European Central Bank

Abstract We develop a behavioral DSGE model which addresses the forward guidance puzzle. We then use the estimated model to assess if unconventional monetary policy tools such as negative interest rates, forward guidance, and asset purchases can provide efficient macroeconomic stabilization in a low nominal and real interest rate environment. While these tools boost output and inflation, the rebound from deep recession can still be painfully slow. Makeup strategies, including average inflation and price level targeting, can further support recovery and reduce downside risks, though the benefits are quite modest under behavioral expectations.
Weighted averaging of auditory brainstem responses

A weighted averaging algorithm is applied to increase the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the auditory brainstem response (ABR). The algorithm's performance is verified using a new SNR estimator and is found to give significant increases in SNR compared to conventional averaging. >
Drink, Power, and Society in the Andes

Reviewed Medium: book Year: 2009 Pages: 304 Publisher: University Press of Florida ISBN: 978-0-8130-3306-8 (hard cover). Prices: $75.00 USD(hard cover).
Lipid Protein Interactions: The Assembly of CD1d1 with Cellular Phospholipids Occurs in the Endoplasmic Reticulum

CD1d1 is a member of a family of lipid Ag-presenting molecules. The cellular ligands associated with CD1d1 were isolated and characterized by biochemical means as an approach to elucidate the mechanism by which CD1 molecules assemble in vivo. Natural ligands of mouse CD1d1 included cellular phosphatidylinositol and phosphatidylinositol-glycans that are synthesized in the endoplasmic reticulum. Further biochemical data revealed that the two CD1d1 mutants, one defective in recycling from-and-to the plasma membrane and the other in efficiently negotiating the secretory pathway, associated with phosphatidylinositol. Thus phosphatidylinositol associated with CD1d1 in the early secretory pathway. Phosphatidylinositol also associated with CD1d1 in Pig-A-deficient cells that are defective in the first glycosylation step of glycosylphosphatidylinositol biosynthesis. Moreover, cellular phosphatidylinositol-glycans are not Valpha14Jalpha15 natural T cell Ags. Therefore, we predict that cellular lipids occlude the hydrophobic Ag-binding groove of CD1 during assembly until they are exchanged for a glycolipid Ag(s) within the recycling compartment for display on the plasma membrane. In this manner, cellular lipids might play a chaperone-like role in the assembly of CD1d1 in vivo, akin to the function of invariant chain in MHC class II assembly.
The Construction, Preliminary Validation, and Correlates of a Dream-Specific Scale for Mystical Experience

This study aimed to create and test a dream-specific version of Hood's Mysticism (M) Scale for the purpose of studying dreaming mystical experience. Factor analysis of the Spiritual Dreams Scale (SDS), based on data collected from 289 adults affiliated with an American evangelical Christian school, clearly resulted in three factors in accordance with prior studies of the M Scale. However, the factor composition of the SDS did not identically resemble the findings of previous studies of the M Scale. Instead, the three-factor solution suggested a Jamesian interpretation according to which the factors were labeled mystical psychology (passivity), perceived alternate reality (ineffability), and noesis. Scores on the SDS shared significant positive correlations with scores for absorption, dream beliefs, dream recall, and kataphatic prayer. A scale for apophatic prayer failed to share a significant correlation with the SDS.
Sr3 − x La x Fe2 − y Co y O7 − δ (0.3 ⩽ x ⩽ 0.6 and 0 ⩽ y ⩽ 0.6) Intergrowth Oxide Cathodes for Intermediate Temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

The perovskite-related intergrowth oxides, Sr 3-x La x Fe 2-y Co y O 7-δ (0.3 ≤ x ≤ 0.6 and 0 ≤ y ≤ 0.6), have been investigated as cathode materials for intermediate temperature solid oxide fuel cells. With a given La content x, the electrical conductivity, oxide-ion vacancy concentration, and thermal expansion coefficient (TEC) increase with increasing Co content y. With a given Co content, while the electrical conductivity increases, the TEC decreases with increasing La content. The electrocatalytic activity and power density measured with Sr 3-x La x Fe 2-y Co y O 7-δ /La 0.8 Sr 0.2 Ga 0.8 Mg 0.2 O 2.8 /Ni-Ce 0.9 Gd 0.1 O 1.95 (GDC) single cells with a GDC interlayer between the cathode and electrolyte increase with increasing Co and La contents due to an increase in electrical conductivity and oxide ion vacancy concentration. The electrical conductivity, TEC, and electrochemical performance of the Sr 3-x La x Fe 2-y Co y O 7-δ cathodes are also compared with those of the LaSr 3 Fe 3-y Co y O 10-δ intergrowth and La 0.6 Sr 0.4 CoO 3-δ perovskite oxides.
A solution to a special case of the synchronization problem

A synchronizer that exhibits an arbitrarily low failure rate and a short propagation delay for the special case of synchronizing a signal that is synchronous with some periodic signal is described. >
Wide-Bandwidth, Wide-Beamwidth, High-Resolution, Millimeter-Wave Imaging for Concealed Weapon Detection

Active millimeter-wave imaging is currently being used for personnel screening at airports and other high-security facilities. The cylindrical imaging techniques used in the deployed systems are based on licensed technology developed at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. The cylindrical and a related planar imaging technique form three-dimensional images by scanning a diverging beam swept frequency transceiver over a two-dimensional aperture and mathematically focusing or reconstructing the data into three-dimensional images of the person being screened. The resolution, clothing penetration, and image illumination quality obtained with these techniques can be significantly enhanced through the selection of the aperture size, antenna beamwidth, center frequency, and bandwidth. The lateral resolution can be improved by increasing the center frequency, or it can be increased with a larger antenna beamwidth. The wide beamwidth approach can significantly improve illumination quality relative to a higher frequency system. Additionally, a wide antenna beamwidth allows for operation at a lower center frequency resulting in less scattering and attenuation from the clothing. The depth resolution of the system can be improved by increasing the bandwidth. Utilization of extremely wide bandwidths of up to 30 GHz can result in depth resolution as fine as 5 mm. This wider bandwidth operation may allow for improved detection techniques based on high range resolution. In this paper, the results of an extensive imaging study that explored the advantages of using extremely wide beamwidth and bandwidth are presented, primarily for 10-40 GHz frequency band.
Band structure of CdS and CdSe at high pressure

The indirect energy gaps of NaCl-structured CdS and CdSe are measured using absorption spectroscopy to approximately 55 and 42 GPa, respectively. The gaps shift linearly with pressure and their pressure dependence generally is in good agreement with previous measurements to 16 GPa. Also, band calculations using pseudo-potentials and density-functional theory are conducted on CdS as a function of pressure. The shift in the energy gap of CdS with pressure ($\frac{d{E}_{\mathrm{gap}}}{\mathrm{dP}}$) is experimentally determined to be -5.7(6)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{\ensuremath{-}3}$ eV/GPa, in good agreement with the theoretical calculation of -5.6\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{\ensuremath{-}3}$ eV/GPa. The pressure dependence of the gap of CdSe is measured to be -4.0(2)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{\ensuremath{-}3}$ eV/GPa, while previous theoretical work yielded -6.0\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{\ensuremath{-}3}$ eV/GPa. Relative to a previous experimental result on CdSe, our measured shift is in considerably closer agreement with theory. The energy gap in both materials is indirect throughout the pressure range of these measurements. There is also no compression-induced change in the location in $k$ space of the valence-band maxima for either the experimental or theoretical results. In contrast to previous inferences for CdS, the gap appears to remain from the L point to the X point up to our maximum pressure. Based on a simple linear extrapolation of our data, we estimate the metallization pressures of NaCl-structured CdS and CdSe to be above 250 and 150 GPa, respectively. Because phase transitions occur in both materials below these pressures, it is unlikely that either of the NaCl-structured phases will undergo metallization.
Differentiation and secretory activities of cultured human placental cytotrophoblast

Summary Ultrastructural, autoradiographic, immunofluorescent and biochemical techniques were used to characterize primary cultures of term placental cytotrophoblast in order to gain insight into the differentiation and secretory capacities of the cellular component of human trophoblast. Trypsin treatment of placental villi allowed isolation of a predominantly cytotrophoblast cell population that maintained viability up to 13 weeks in monolayer culture. Autoradiographic studies of tritiated thymidine incorporation identified a smaller diameter mononucleated cell population that was mitotically active and developed into larger diameter mononucleated cells and into multinucleated cells during culture. Ultrastructurally, cultured cells formed desmosomes, had an extensive network of cytoplasmic microfilaments and contained the organelles for hormone synthesis and secretion. These cells secreted steroid hormones, secreted Schwangerschafts protein 1, actively incorporated tritiated glycoprotein precursors and expressed surface immunoreactivity for the β -subunit of human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG). However, medium concentrations of hCG and human placental lactogen dropped rapidly to undetectable levels after 14 days in primary culture. Cells grown beyond confluence differentiated into 1 to 2 mm structures with a villus-like histology. Our studies indicate that (1) cytotrophoblast can secrete steroids, (2) cytotrophoblast differentiation occurs in vitro in the absence of maternal tissues, (3) hCG synthesis occurs in cultured cytotrophoblast and (4) medium concentrations of placental protein hormones are not the best indicators of cell viability for cultures of cytotrophoblast.
A Taxonomy of Bargaining Models

This paper presents a classification scheme to be used as a starting point for comparing and integrating the multitude of bargaining models that have been developed. Additionally, in tabularform the strengths, limitation, and selected examples for each model type are presented. Unlike most taxon-omies, the categories are presented in pictorial form. This unique mode of presentation helps the reader more easily undserstand the given classifica-tion scheme as well as point to areas for possible future research and integration.
Disposition of 3H-selamectin and 3H-ivermectin in the brain of the cat flea Ctenocephalides felis felis using micro-image analysis.

Abstract In addition to intrinsic potency and metabolic stability, the disposition of an antiparasitic drug within the target parasite plays a major role in determining drug activity. A novel technique that allows the disposition of radiolabelled drugs to be visualised within the body of the cat flea ( Ctenocephalides felis felis ) is described. The concentrations of two macrocyclic lactones, 3 H-selamectin and 3 H-ivermectin, within the supra- and sub-oesophageal ganglia of the flea brain following in vitro feeding of fleas on different doses of drug solubilised in calf blood have been measured. Drug disposition was visualised in cryostat sections of fleas using a micro-image analysis (MIA). A relationship between the concentration of radioactivity in the ganglia and the dose of drug in the blood meal was obtained. The concentration of selamectin in the ganglia was significantly higher than ivermectin at all doses investigated. The enhanced concentration of selamectin, at a site rich in glutamate-gated chloride channels may, in part, explain the higher potency of selamectin against fleas compared to ivermectin.
Effects of early health-insurance programs on European mortality and fertility trends.

Abstract In this study, we examined the mortality and fertility effects of the early health-insurance programs sponsored by several European governments in the course of the demographic transition. Three sets of effects were hypothesized, and tested with data for five countries, covering the 1875–1913 period. First, although initially small, the growing health-insurance coverage of national populations accelerated longer-term downtrends in mortality. It not only expanded access to health care, but also helped in disseminating health information and awareness. Second, widening coverage also had an opposite effect on fertility; by lowering the costs of bearing and rearing children, it acted to slow the ongoing downtrend in marital fertility. Third, there was a diverse set of interactions between the mortality and fertility effects. Improved prospects for the survival of infants and children weakened parents’ motivation to produce “extra” offspring to offset losses to mortality and to insure against future losses. Child survival was further enhanced by longer intervals between births and fewer children per family. However, the reduced cost of children tended to dilute these antenatal effects. Our regression results supported the expected pattern of partial effects, but simulations were needed to gauge the total impacts of health-insurance. Two sets of simulations were conducted: first, historical simulations, which closely tracked the actual experience of each sample country; second, counterfactuals, in which health-insurance coverage was set at zero for the entire time period. Comparisons of the historical and counterfactual simulations clearly indicated that health-insurance accelerated the downtrend in mortality, but slightly retarded the secular decline in marital fertility. These effects varied in magnitude, but not in direction, among the sample countries.
Thermionic Emission From Alkali Potassium-Intercalated Carbon Nanotube Arrays for Direct Energy Conversion

Vacuum and solid-state thermionic electron emission are potentially efficient means for converting heat or solar energy directly into electrical power. However, low work function materials must be developed before reasonable efficiency can be realized with a power generation device based on thermionic emission. In this work, carbon nanotube (CNT) arrays have been doped with potassium atoms using a two-zone vapor method to lower their work functions to 2–4 eV. We have previously shown that carbon nanotube emitters prepared in this way are stable in atmospheric air although undesirable oxide compounds can form on the carbon nanotube surface. Using a hemispherical electron energy analyzer to obtain thermionic emission energy distributions, we show that low work function emitters can be prepared from potassium-intercalated CNT mats at temperatures as low as 400°C and that emitters prepared in this way can be stable at temperatures up to 620°C.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
A Technique for Maximizing Details in Numerical Weather Map Analysis

Abstract This paper summarizes the development of a convergent weighted-averaging interpolation scheme which can be used to obtain any desired amount of detail in the analysis of a set of randomly spaced data. The scheme is based on the supposition that the two-dimensional distribution of an atmospheric variable can be represented by the summation of an infinite number of independent waves, i.e., a Fourier integral representation. The practical limitations of the scheme are that the data distribution be reasonably uniform and that the data be accurate. However, the effect of inaccuracies can be controlled by stopping the convergence scheme before the data errors are greatly amplified. The scheme has been tested in the analysis of 500-mb height data over the United States producing a result with details comparable to those obtainable by careful manual analysis. A test analysis of sea level pressure based on the data obtained at only the upper air network stations produced results with essentially the same ...
Calculation of forward proton-proton bremsstrahlung at 51.8 MeV

Abstract The double differential proton-proton bremsstrahlung cross section near 10O−10O is computed in the coplaner geometry using a simple one pion exchange off-shell extrapolation of the elastic phase shifts. This relatively simple calculation which has given excellent agreement with experiments at θ1, θ2 > 25O does not agree with recent Japanese 8.5O-8.5O data at 51.8 MeV.
The NH3 spectrum in Saturn's 5 micron window

Spectra of Saturn's 5-micron window were obtained at the Infrared Telescope Facility on Mauna Kea, Hawaii. The spectra have a resolution of 1.2/cm, and some exhibit extremely low amounts of approximately 300-micron ppt telluric H2O. The Saturn spectra show absorptions by the 2nu2 band of NH3. Long-path laboratory comparison spectra of NH3 were acquired and show considerable deviations in intensity from theoretical predictions. The calibration of Saturn's observed NH3 features with the laboratory data gives 2.0 + or - 0.5 m-amagat of NH3 using the 2nu2 Q-branch at 5.32 microns. The R(1) and R(2) lines yield an abundance about 3 times greater. Absorptions outside the range of the Q-branch can be accounted for by solid NH3 of 10-20 microns equivalent path length. The origin of Saturn's 5-micron flux is mostly thermal with some admixture of solar reflected radiation. A depletion of Saturn's NH3 abundance below the solar value is indicated, but confirmation of this conclusion will require a better understanding of the atmospheric penetration depth at 5 microns and more rigorous modeling of the spectral line formation.
Hybrid MPE-iterative schemes for linear and nonlinear systems

The basic approach for the MPE (minimal polynomial extrapolation) method is introduced for use in conjunction with iterative methods. First, we develop a hybrid Chebyshev MPE algorithm and study its performance for a representative nonsymmetric linear system arising from a discretized two-dimensional convection-diffusion problem. A practical restart algorithm and supporting numerical studies are presented. Then, we consider the extension of the approach to nonlinear problems. In particular, we develop and test hybrid successive approximation MPE schemes for a class of nonlinear Poisson problems. The performance of these methods for a representative two-dimensional reaction-diffusion problem is investigated.
Swinburne's explanation of the universe

Richard Swinburne, Is There a God? Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1996, pp. vii+144.Swinburne's Is There A God? presents a brief, updated version of his book, The Existence of God, in which Swinburne argued that criteria used in scientific reasoning could be used to argue that God probably exists. This new book is designed for a wider audience than professional philosophers. Nonetheless, there much that is new and of interest to philosophers in Is There a God? For example, there is a discussion of Stephen Hawking's cosmology, some new ideas in the philosophy of mind, and a new way of formulating the argument that theism is a simpler explanation of the universe than is materialism.
Quantum Open System Theory: Bipartite Aspects

We demonstrate in straightforward calculations that even under ideally weak noise the relaxation of bipartite open quantum systems contains elements not previously encountered in quantum noise physics. While additivity of decay rates is known to be generic for decoherence of a single system, we demonstrate that it breaks down for bipartite coherence of even the simplest composite systems.
Synthesis and Proinflammatory Properties of Muramyl Tripeptides Containing Lysine and Diaminopimelic Acid Moieties

The unusual amino acid diaminopimelic acid (DAP) was prepared by cross metathesis of appropriately protected vinyl glycine and allyl glycine derivatives. Catalytic hydrogenation of the cross-coupling product resulted in reduction of the double bond and the removal of protecting groups. The resulting compounds were appropriately protected for the polymer-supported and solution-phase synthesis of muramyl tripeptides 2 and 3, which differ in the amidation of the alpha-carboxylic acids of the isoglutamine and DAP moieties. Muramyl dipeptide (1, MDP), the DAP-containing muramyl tripeptide 3, and the lysine-containing muramyl tripeptides 4 and 5 induced TNF-alpha gene expression without TNF-alpha protein production in a human monocytic cell line. The observed block in translation could be removed by co-incubation with LPS, resulting in an apparent synergistic effect. Compound 2 did not induce TNF-alpha gene expression, neither did it exhibit a synergistic effect with LPS; this indicates that amidation of the alpha-carboxylic acids of the isoglutamine and DAP moieties results in a loss of biological activity. It is proposed that amidation of alpha-carboxylic acids is a strategy that may be used by pathogens to avoid detection by the innate immune system. Furthermore, the pattern recognition receptors Nod1 and Nod2 have been implicated in the possible induction of a synergistic effect of muropeptides with LPS.
Photoluminescent studies of spin-assembled MPS-PPV/dendrimer multilayers

Abstract We examine the photoluminescence properties of three generations of poly(propylenimine) dendrimers and poly(2,5-methoxy-propyloxy sulfonate phenylene vinylene) (MPS-PPV) multilayer films formed by spin-assembly. We observe self-quenching of luminescence with increasing film thickness. For a bilayer system of dendrimer/MPS-PPV, we show an additional terminal dendrimer layer results in films with greater photoluminescence quantum efficiency (PLQE) compared to bilayer films having terminal MPS-PPV layers. Increasing the concentration of the terminal dendrimer layer results in a large increase in PLQE and a spectral red-shift. These changes are a result of increased contact between the dendrimer and MPS-PPV layers through interpenetration.
All too familiar: Luce Irigaray's recent thought on sexuation and generation

In recent works, Luce Irigaray offers arguments for the establishment of sexed rights that rely upon certain presuppositional accounts of the development of relational sexuate identity and difference. The paper advances a series of objections to these accounts, in addition to examining some of Irigaray's proposals concerning women's indefinition, the category of the neuter, and female genealogy. Supplementing Luce Irigaray's argument that mother-daughter genealogy is under-symbolized in present Occidental cultures, it suggests, for reasons consonant with Irigaray's general project, additional corrective representation of paternal genealogy in terms of father-daughter relations.
Mechanomyographic responses are not influenced by the innervation zone for the vastus medialis.

Introduction: The purposes of this study were to: (1) compare the power output–related patterns of absolute and normalized mechanomyographic (MMG) amplitude and mean power frequency (MPF) signals across the innervation zone (IZ) during incremental cycle ergometry; and (2) examine the influence of the IZ on the mean MMG amplitude and MPF values. Methods: Ten men performed incremental cycle ergometry tests to exhaustion. Surface MMG signals were recorded simultaneously from accelerometer arrangements placed on the vastus medialis over the IZ and proximal and distal to the IZ. Results: The results of polynomial regression indicate that the best-fit model for each site was consistent for each subject for MMG amplitude, but not for MMG MPF. Two-way analyses of variance (ANOVAs) revealed no site × power output interaction (P > 0.05) for absolute and normalized MMG amplitude and MPF values. Conclusion: Our findings demonstrate that the IZ does not influence the MMG signal during dynamic exercise. Muscle Nerve 44: 424–431, 2011
Manifestations of Epstein‐Barr virus‐associated disorders in liver

Epstein-Barr virus is a ubiquitous virus associated with a variety of different diseases and disorders. The manifestations of Epstein-Barr virus-associated diseases or disorders within the liver, which involve a broad spectrum of histologic and clinical features, ranging from hepatitis through lymphoproliferative disorders to lymphoma, are presented. An important aspect of Epstein-Barr virus expression and infection is the biology of the Epstein-Barr virus. Documentation of infection can be performed using serology to detect the interaction of Epstein-Barr virus with the immune system, and the detection of EBV proteins and use of molecular biologic techniques to identify the presence of EBV RNA, and DNA sequences. Of particular utility are in situ hybridization, Southern blot analysis, and polymerase chain reaction as diagnostic methods to identify specific RNA or DNA sequences. Epstein-Barr virus-associated diseases and disorders including infectious mononucleosis, sporadic fatal infectious mononucleosis, X-linked proliferative disorder (Duncan's disease), post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorders, lymphoma, and AIDS are discussed. The histopathologic findings present in liver associated with each disease are presented with illustrative examples. Handling the tissue and interaction with clinical services are also discussed as a method for appropriate diagnosis of Epstein-Barr virus-driven processes affecting the liver.
A Comparison of Two Different Viability Tests in Equine Spermatozoa

DISCUSSION The purpose of the Cont N (housed in pasture-no intrauterine device) was to distinguish whether the device would cause an inflammatory response that would elicit a temperature increase leading to confusion in interpretation of the data. The results indicated that there was no such response and therefore, the temperatures recorded by the iButtons were indeed reflective of internal temperature. Correlation between rectal and uterine temperature obtained from iButtons placed in the uterus were obtained from mares subjected to a variety of exercise protocols were found to be highly significant. Results of the current study provide an additional correlation of microchip temperature to both of these devices. Although the 3 methods of measuring temperature seemed to provide equivalent results in this study, the practicality of each method has certain implications. In some areas of research such as exercise physiology, the capability to measure core temperature without stopping exercise, either with the microchip or the iButton, could prove useful. In the current study, mares living in pasture (Cont P) had the lowest mean rectal temperatures. However, temperatures taken by both the iButton and the microchip were lowest for mares in stalls without forced exercise (Cont S). Results of this study suggest that this management practice led to the least amount of core temperature heat stress. Bewteen Cont P and EXE, there was no significant difference for the microchip and iButton temperatures. This may indicate that there is no difference between heat stress induced by the environment versus heat stress induced by exercise.
A useful synthesis of d-erythro-sphingomyelins

Abstract A practical and efficient synthesis of N-palmitoyl-D-erythro-sphingomyelin is reported here, providing a general method for the preparation of various sphingomyelins bearing different N-acyl chains.
Agricultural commodity production and trade: a trade economist's view on filling US food supply gaps

Abstract Deficiencies in the balance of the American diet have been identified which could necessitate changes in agricultural production and trade. International trade has played only a small role for the products in deficit–fruits, vegetables and dairy products–but will be critical to future market adjustments. The potential to fill food supply gaps via increased imports and from US producers in the future is substantial, as seen in recent worldwide trends for these products. Transportation costs, which encouraged self-sufficiency in these products in the past, have declined. The producer bias of agricultural policy has diminished following reforms in the 1992 and 1996 Farm Bills as well as in the US GATT offer. Evidence that potential exporters of these products may expand sales to the US and that world supplies can cope with the necessary adjustments is presented. Whether and how markets adjust will depend more on changes in consumer preferences than on production technology or policy. An example of trade in tomato juice is used to show that New Trade Theory, and particularly how firms market their products, more so than traditional determinants of comparative advantage, will dictate the path of those adjustments.
Speckle Imaging Using The Principle Value Decomposition Method

Obtaining diffraction limited images in the presence of atmospheric turbulence is a topic of current interest. Two types of approaches have evolved: real-time correction and speckle imaging. Using an "optimal" filtering approach, we have developed a speckle imaging reconstruction method. This method is based on a non-linear integral equation which is solved using principle value decomposition. The method has been implemented on a CDC 7600 for study. The restoration algorithm is discussed and it's performance is illustrated.© (1978) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Disulfide bonds of pepsinogen and pepsin: identification of the disulfide bonds which can be reversibly reduced and reoxidized.

Abstract Pepsinogen and pepsin were reduced with β-mercaptoethanol in the presence and absence of urea. The SH groups formed were labeled with iodoacetic-1-14C acid. The reduced carboxymethylated proteins were digested with pepsin, followed by trypsin and chymotrypsin. The peptides of the reaction mixtures were isolated on a column of Dowex 50 and further purified by high-voltage electrophoresis and paper chromatography prior to amino acid analysis. The two disulfide bonds of pepsinogen and pepsin reduced by mercaptoethanol are disulfide bridge A2 and disulfide bridge B2 When pepsinogen is fully reduced by β-mercaptoethanol in the presence of 8.0 m urea the third disulfide bridge C2 is reduced. It was concluded that the reduction of pepsinogen and pepsin is not a random process. When the disulfide bridges A and B are reduced the proteins can be reoxidized to catalytically active proteins. If the third disulfide bond (disulfide bridge C) is reduced, enzymic activities are not recovered upon reoxidation.
DYNAMIC ANALYSIS OF A RADIAL TIRE BY FINITE ELEMENTS AND MODAL EXPANSION

Abstract Doubly curved, axisymmetric shell finite elements and the modal expansion approach are used to investigate the linear dynamic response of an automotive radial tire, with particular focus on the frequency response, the travelling sinusoidal load response, and the response spectrum due to a random pavement. For the travelling sinusoidal load response it is shown that, depending upon the natural frequency spectrum of the tire, the vehicle velocity, and the distance-based frequency of the pavement profile, certain modes dominate the response at specific vehicle velocities. For the random pavement the tire response increases with vehicle velocity.
Survey of TQM in Construction Industry in Upper Midwest

The acceptance of total quality management (TQM) within the construction industry is an issue that is difficult to quantify. A survey of construction firms in the upper Midwestern United States was conducted in order to quantify the application and use of the TQM philosophy. A questionnaire was developed and mailed to 1,500 construction firms in the Midwest who are involved in various types of construction activities (general contracting, road and highway construction, subcontracting, homebuilding, electrical and mechanical contracting, etc.). The results of the survey indicate that there are substantial economic benefits that can be attained through the implementation of TQM techniques. However, there are several key educational and operational issues that must be addressed prior to, and after, implementing a TQM program.
Drug abuse treatment in prisons and jails

Abstract Acknowledging the fact that the criminal justice system is currently awash with drug abusers and that prison drug abuse treatment has had a varied history in the United States, this article explores possible directions for the future of drug abuse treatment in prisons and jails. The current status of drug abuse treatment is reviewed, and selected treatment approaches are highlighted. In addition, evaluation issues are presented, and special issues are reviewed including case management, community follow-up, and methodological considerations. Finally, recommendations are suggested for treatment, research, evaluation, demonstrations, management information, community linkage, training, and technical assistance.
Bartter's Syndrome with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

We report a rare case of Bartter's syndrome in a 35-year-old woman with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The patient presented with leg weakness, fatigue, polyuria and polydipsia. Hypokalemia, metabolic alkalosis, and high renin and aldosterone concentrations were present, but the patient was normotensive. Gitelman's syndrome was excluded because of the presence of hypercalciuria, secondary hyperparathyroidism and bilateral nephrocalcinosis. The patient's condition improved upon administration of a prostaglandin synthetase inhibitor (acemetacin), oral potassium chloride and potassium-sparing diuretics. Five months later, the patient discontinued acemetacin because of epigastric discomfort; at the same time, severe hypokalemia and hyperglycemia developed. Glucagon stimulation and water deprivation tests were performed. Type 2 diabetes mellitus with nephrogenic diabetes insipidus was diagnosed. To avoid further gastrointestinal complications, the patient was treated with celecoxib, a selective cyclooxygenase 2 inhibitor. This case serves as a reminder that Bartter's syndrome is associated with various metabolic derangements including nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, nephrocalcinosis and diabetes mellitus. When treating Bartter's syndrome, it is also prudent to remember that the long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and potassium-sparing diuretics may result in serious adverse reactions.
Études littéraires et écologie du minoritaire

Revisitant une scene tiree de la Relation de 1635 de Jean Brebeuf a la lumiere du concept de planetarite, cet article propose de jeter les bases d’une ecologie du minoritaire dans le domaine des etudes litteraires. L’analyse ira d’abord puiser dans la tension qui existe entre ce que l’histoire litteraire fait du travail de l’ecriture et ce que l’ecriture comme technologie du symbolique fait du discours de l’histoire, pour ensuite s’attacher aux effets de segmentation dans certaines oeuvres de la romanciere acadienne France Daigle.
Evaluating Post-wildfire Vegetation Regeneration as a Response to Multiple Environmental Determinants

Vegetation regeneration in post-fire environments varies across the landscape of a burned area. Variations are caused by interacting factors, including soil properties, vegetation characteristics, hydrology, land management history, and burn severity. While many of these factors have been explored previously, few studies have investigated the combination of multiple factors. A time-series of the remotely sensed enhanced vegetation index data has been analyzed to estimate rates of regeneration across a burn in central Arizona. We used regression trees to evaluate post-fire vegetation response as a function of multiple factors. Regeneration was a function of elevation (likely a proxy for moisture availability), burn severity, pre-burn vegetation, and post-burn management activities. Both time-series vegetation data and regression trees were valuable tools for determining dominant interacting factors responsible for variations in post-fire regeneration. Evaluation of the time-series data and modeled post-fire vegetation permitted the interpretation of management actions across the burned area.
Discrimination between the nuclear lamin and intermediate filament (cytokeratin/vimentin) proteins of rat hepatic tumor cells by differential solubility and electrophoretic criteria

Abstract 1. 1. The major proteins which comprise the high salt/detergent-insoluble cytoskeletal matrix of rat hepatic tumor cells containing abnormal (Mallory body-like) aggregates of intermediate filaments were distinguished on the basis of electrophoretic mobility and differential solubility. 2. 2. Gel electrophoresis of the intermediate filament-enriched cytoskeletal fraction of Mallory body hepatic tumor cells revealed the presence of: (a) intermediate filament proteins typical of cultured liver epithelial cells (cytokeratins A and D, vimentin), (b) some residual actin and, (c) two peptides of Mr = 68,000−72,000. 3. 3. Analysis of the products of filament disassembly/reassembly mixtures indicated that the two Mr = 68,000−72,000 peptide species had the solubility characteristics of nuclear lamins. 4. 4. The presence of nuclear lamin proteins in the high salt/detergent-resistent fraction of cultured liver cells was consistent with the resolution of residual nuclear-like structures in extracted cell monolayers. 5. 5. Thus, while cytokeratin/vimentin-class intermediate filament proteins and nuclear lamins co-isolate from rat liver cells under conditions of high salt/detergent extraction, these two types of cytoskeletal proteins could be distinguished on the basis of their differential solubility and molecular weight.
Bison Exploitation by Late Fort Ancient Peoples in the Central Ohio River Valley

Recent radiocarbon dating demonstrates that Bison bison was present in the central Ohio River Valley between AD 1450 and 1800. The association of this species with cultural material suggests that bison were exploited as a source of food and raw material by Fort Ancient peoples of the Madisonville phase. Bison sought access to the salt and sulphur spings at Big Bone Lick, Kentucky, making this an important locale for bison exploitation.