cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Changes in intestinal fluid transport associated with smoltification and seawater adaptation in coho salmon, Oncorhynchus kisutch (Walbaum)

The intestinal role in osmoregulatory preadaptation of freshwater-adapted (FW) yearling coho salmon during smoltification was examined. Measurements of intestinal net fluid absorption (JV) using an in vitro sac preparation showed that JV of FW parr was significantly less than that of either FW or seawater-adapted (SW) smolts. From two to four weeks following the springtime thyroxin surge, JV increases in FW coho to a level comparable with that observed for SW smolts. JV remained elevated in FW smolts throughout most of the summer and then decreased in the autumn. Two months after the thyroxin peak, intestinal wet weight per unit serosal surface area increases. Coho stunts resulting from premature transfer into sea water had significantly higher JV than that seen in SW smolts. The elevated JV of stunts is only partially explicable on the basis of differences in body weight between stunts and smolts. Our observations indicate that an increase in intestinal fluid absorption is a preadaptive change associated with smoltification occurring in concert with alterations in renal and branchial osmoregulatory mechanisms. The timing of the increase in JV suggests a phase relationship to the thyroxin surge. This temporal relationship may help to explain the efficacy of using changes in plasma thyroxin levels to predict hatchery-fish release dates that may optimize eventual seawater survival.
Micrococcal nuclease as a probe for bound and distorted DNA in lac transcription and repression complexes

Micrococcal nuclease (MNase) is used to probe the structure of transcription and repression complexes at the lac regulatory region in vitro. Both the lac operator, 01, and the pseudo-operator, 03, are found to be protected from MNase digestion by the lac repressor on supercoiled DNA, and hypersensitive sites appear on both strands around nucleotide (nt) -26 between 01 and 03. This hyperreactive site is coincident with the site of the DNA kink shown previously to form within a loop caused by simultaneous repressor binding to 01 and 03. MNase hypersites are also observed both upstream from cAMP receptor protein (CRP) and downstream from bound RNA polymerase in open promoter complexes. In both open and closed complexes the binding of polymerase partially protects the backbone from MNase attack. Catabolite activator protein is shown to be required for both closed and open complex formation. Taken together with previous footprinting data, the results suggest that lac transcription complexes involve DNA bent towards a protein core consisting of RNA polymerase and catabolite activator protein.
Optical constants of a series of amorphous hydrogenated silicon-carbon alloy films: Dependence of optical response on film microstructure and evidence for homogeneous chemical ordering.

The optical constants (\~n=n+ik, ${\ensuremath{\epsilon}}_{1}$=${n}^{2}$-${k}^{2}$, ${\ensuremath{\epsilon}}_{2}$=2nk) of a series of amorphous hydrogenated silicon-carbon alloy films (a-${\mathrm{Si}}_{1\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}\mathrm{x}}$${\mathrm{C}}_{\mathrm{x}}$:H) have been determined for photon energies between 1.5 and 4.75 eV. These films have been prepared via the rf glow-discharge decomposition of ${\mathrm{SiH}}_{4}$ and ${\mathrm{C}}_{2}$${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$. The index of refraction n at 1.5 eV increases smoothly from n=1.67 for a-C:H (x=1) to n=3.18 for a-Si:H (x=0), while the optical energy gap ${E}_{\mathrm{opt}}$ reaches a maximum value of 2.68 eV for a carbon fraction of x=0.68. The films in this alloy series are proposed to be macroscopically homogeneous, while having a heterogeneous microstructure. Their optical response has been modeled, via the Bruggemann effective-medium approximation (EMA), as arising from three amorphous components: polymeric (a-${\mathrm{CH}}_{\mathrm{m}}$, m\ensuremath{\sim}2), graphitic (a-C), and tetrahedral (a-Si:C:H), and a void component. A Si- and C-centered tetrahedron model developed in the preceding paper has been used to predict the optical response of the amorphous tetrahedral component as a function of its composition. This EMA approach based on four components in the films gives a good description of the observed dependences of ${\ensuremath{\epsilon}}_{1}$ and ${\ensuremath{\epsilon}}_{2}$ on composition and provides a convincing demonstration that the appearance of the amorphous graphitic component in the films limits the attainable value of ${E}_{\mathrm{opt}}$ in this alloy series as the carbon content increases. In addition, the model provides strong evidence that complete chemical ordering with homogeneous dispersion exists within the amorphous tetrahedral (a-Si:C:H) component across the entire alloy series.
Measuring literacy in IALS: a construct-centered approach

Abstract This paper offers a brief overview of the framework that has been used for developing the tasks used to measure literacy in IALS as well as for understanding the meaning of what is being reported with respect to the comparative literacy proficiencies of adults. The importance of developing a framework is thought to be central in construct-based approaches to measurement. Among the things that should be included in the framework are an agreed definition of what ought to be measured and the identification of characteristics that can be used in the construction and interpretation of these tasks.
Carpal tunnel syndrome associated with danazol therapy

The carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition characterired by symptoms and signs of median nerve compression at the wrist. As a result there may be paresthesia, sensory impairment, and eventually muscular atrophy in the hand area supplied by the median nerve. Positive Tinel’s sign (distal tingling on percussion of the wrist) may be noted; also, on flexion of the hand paresthesia may be described (Phalen’s sign). Causes include occupational hazard, amyloidosis, or thickening of connective tissue as a result of a number of conditions including rheumatoid arthritis, hypothyroidism, and acromegaly. The gynecologist-obstetrician may see apparently transient carpal tunnel syndrome in association with pregnancy, estrogen-progestin medication, or highdose progestin medication.’ We recently encountered a patient with endometriosis who developed transient carpal tunnel syndrome which started while she received danazol therapy (Danocrine, Winthrop Laboratories, New York).
A New method for determining cumulative gravitational lensing effects in inhomogeneous universes

We present a new approach to calculating the statistical distributions for magnification, shear, and rotation of images of cosmological sources due to gravitational lensing. In this approach one specifies an underlying Robertson-Walker cosmological model together with relevant information on the clumping of matter on scales much smaller than the Hubble radius. The geodesic deviation equation is then integrated backwards in time until the desired redshift is reached, using a Monte Carlo procedure wherein each photon beam in effect ``creates its own universe'' as it propagates. The approach is somewhat similar to that used in ``Swiss cheese'' models, but the ``cheese'' has been completely eliminated, the matter distribution in the ``voids'' need not be spherically symmetric, the total mass in each void need equal the corresponding Robertson-Walker mass only on average, and we do not impose an ``opaque radius'' cutoff. The case where the matter in the universe consists of point masses is studied in detail, and it is shown that the statistical distributions of the lensing images are essentially independent of both the mass spectrum and the clustering properties of the point masses, provided that the clustering is spherical. Detailed results for the distribution of the magnification of images are presented for the point mass case, as well as a number of other matter distributions. We apply our results (i) to argue that the positive correlation recently found between quasar luminosity and the number of absorption line systems is not likely to be due to lensing, and (ii) to determine the amount of ``noise'' and possible bias produced by lensing in measurements of ${q}_{0}$ using distant supernovas.
The Prion Diseases

The prion diseases are a family of rare neurodegenerative disorders that result from the accumulation of a misfolded isoform of the prion protein (PrP), a normal constituent of the neuronal membrane. Five subtypes constitute the known human prion diseases; kuru, Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD), Gerstmann-Straussler-Scheinker syndrome (GSS), fatal insomnia (FI), and variant CJD (vCJD). These subtypes are distinguished, in part, by their clinical phenotype, but primarily by their associated brain histopathology. Evidence suggests these phenotypes are defined by differences in the pathogenic conformation of misfolded PrP. Although the vast majority of cases are sporadic, 10% to 15% result from an autosomal dominant mutation of the PrP gene (PRNP). General phenotype-genotype correlations can be made for the major subtypes of CJD, GSS, and FI. This paper will review some of the general background related to prion biology and detail the clinical and pathologic features of the major prion diseases, with a particular focus on the genetic aspects that result in prion disease or modification of its risk or phenotype.
Bone Replacement of Fast-Absorbing Biocomposite Anchors in Arthroscopic Shoulder Labral Repairs

Background: Newer generation biocomposite anchors are hypothesized to resorb more reliably and faster, while allowing for bone ingrowth and replacement.Purpose: The purposes of this study were to (1) assess anchor resorption and bone ingrowth over time, (2) identify tunnel widening or potential reactions to the implants, (3) compare imaging findings for different sites of labral repair, and (4) determine patient subjective outcomes with the use of biocomposite anchors in glenoid labral repair.Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4.Methods: We enrolled 22 patients to participate in a 24-month outcomes study that included subjective and objective outcome assessments after glenoid labrum repair surgery. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed at 6 and 12 months to identify any potential reactions to implants. Computed tomography (CT) scans were performed at 12 and 24 months to determine anchor resorption and bone ingrowth. Sixteen patients and 47 anchors were available for follow-up at 24 mon...
T2* measurement during first-pass contrast-enhanced cardiac perfusion imaging.

First-pass contrast-enhanced (CE) myocardial perfusion imaging will experience T2∗ effects at peak concentrations of contrast agent. A reduction in the signal intensity of left ventricular (LV) blood due to T2∗ losses may result in distorted estimates of the arterial input function (AIF) used for quantitative myocardial blood flow measurements (1,2). Both the dual-bolus technique (3,4), which uses a low-concentration bolus for estimating the AIF, and the dual-sequence method (5–7), which acquires AIF reference images using a low TE and short saturation recovery (SR) delay, have been proposed to avoid distortion in the AIF. Imaging artifacts may also result from T2∗ losses, as well as off-resonance effects associated with the bolus. We hypothesized that T2∗ losses are not significant for measurement of the AIF in full-dose studies using a short echo time (TE = 0.6 ms). The purpose of this study was to directly measure T2∗ in the LV cavity during first-pass perfusion imaging using a custom four-echo EPI sequence. Individual images at each TE were reconstructed at reduced spatial resolution, and T2∗ was estimated by an exponential fit to the multiecho data set. In previous studies T2∗ measurements in the heart were used to characterize susceptibility variations (8) and to assess iron overload (9). In these studies, multiple-TE measurements were made using breath-held, gated, segmented sequences to provide high spatial and temporal resolution. In the present study a nonsegmented imaging sequence incorporating parallel imaging with limited spatial resolution was used to measure T2∗ during the first pass of the bolus.
Meeting the water quality criteria for the metal finishing industries

In July of 1977, Texas Instruments, located in Attleboro, Massachusetts was issued a five-year National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit to discharge a treated industrial waste effluent in compliance with the Clean Water Act (CWA). The company had just completed the installation of a modern waste treatment facility employing metal hydroxide precipitation. At the time, this system was considered the Best Available Technology (BAT), and it was based on such process chemistry criteria that the original permit limits were generated. In 1982, however, when Texas Instruments submitted a renewal application for its NPDES discharge permit, water quality criteria were used in place of BAT to determine the permit limits. Since it had been shown that BAT was insufficient to achieve water qualities in receiving streams equal to their designated uses, the EPA, in compliance with Section 301 (b)(1)(c) of the CWA, began imposing much more stringent limits to attain the necessary water quality standards. Furthermore, the Massachusetts Water Quality Standards, 314 CMR 4.00, required that all waters must be free of toxic substances in amounts or combinations that would impair the most sensitive water uses. Therefore, the draft NPDES permit issued to Texas Instruments in January of 1984 reflected the stringent water quality guidelines. Due to the limited dilution water available in the company's receiving stream, the proposed limits were impossible to meet with any existing technology. Texas Instruments then faced a difficult decision on whether to attempt to relieve the tight proposed limits through aquatic toxicity testing, or whether to re-direct the effluent to another receiving stream (i.e. Publically Owned Treatment Works (POTW)), or in the worst case, whether to shut-down its large Attleboro based manufacturing facility employing over 5000 people and relocate to another area. In the final analysis and after much deliberation, TI chose to maintain its Attleboro facility and enter into a long and relatively unexplored avenue of aquatic toxicity testing to raise its permit limits to achievable levels. It was realized early on, that, even if TI succeeded in raising the limits, the existing waste treatment facility would probably require more modifications. As one of the first industries in the New England region to negotiate an NPDES permit based on the new water quality criteria, this article explores the protocol and method by which a new permit was established at Texas Instruments.
Some difficult intuitions for the principle of universality

The Principle of Universality asserts that a part retains its intrinsic value regardless of the whole in which it is a part or even whether it is part of a whole. The idea underlying this principle is that the intrinsic value of a thing supervenes on its intrinsic properties. Since the intrinsic properties remain unchanged so does the thing's intrinsic value. In this article, I argue that, properly understood, the Principle of Universality can handle seemingly troublesome intuitions about the relative intrinsic value of a vicious person having pain and his having pleasure. I specifically argue that the intuition that the former state is better is explained by the nature of the basic intrinsic-value states, which involve a person having a level of well-being and desert at a time. One implication of this is that given the nature of such basic intrinsic-value states, pleasure and pain are not value-bearing parts of virtuous and vicious attitudes.
Optimal Control Using Nonholonomic Integrators

This paper addresses the optimal control of nonholonomic systems through provably correct discretization of the system dynamics. The essence of the approach lies in the discretization of the Lagrange-d'Alembert principle which results in a set of forced discrete Euler-Lagrange equations and discrete nonholonomic constraints that serve as equality constraints for the optimization of a given cost functional. The method is used to investigate optimal trajectories of wheeled robots.
Status and management of lake sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescens Rafinesque, 1817) in the upper St. Croix River and Namekagon River, Wisconsin, USA

Summary The upper St. Croix River and Namekagon River have been managed with a closed lake sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescens Rafinesque, 1817) fishing season since 1994. Lake Sturgeon abundance and distribution have not been assessed above the confluence of the two rivers since this regulation was established. We documented abundance, distribution and movement of the Lake Sturgeon in both rivers from their confluence upstream to the first dam on each river during 2008–2012. Captured with boat-mounted direct current electrofishing and by hook and line, 136 sturgeon ranging from 37 cm to 140 cm total length were tagged. Annual electrofishing catch was only 6% of the catch during the 1960s on a 32 km reach of the Namekagon River. Size structure showed that recruitment was significantly higher during the 1960s in the Namekagon River. Lake Sturgeon movement between rivers was documented during both sampling periods with direct line movements of >80 km. While still depressed, the A. fulvescens population below the first dam upstream from the confluence of the Namekagon River and the upper St. Croix River is naturally recruiting and appears to have the potential to restore itself with a closed fishing season.
Specifications in software development

Summary form only given. Various kinds of specifications used during software development are presented through examples. The focus is on the practical aspects of the nature and use of formal specifications. Some open research problems that should be of particular interest are mentioned. >
Polar Diagrams for the Solution of Deflections of Axially Loaded Beams

T determination of shear and bending moments by use of polar moment diagrams in axially loaded beams originated with the publication of papers by Mtiller-Breslau and Ratzerdorfer. The use of polar moment diagrams for design of aircraft beams was suggested by J. S. Newell. Since that time aeronautical engineers have used this method for determining shear and bending moments in spars of semicantilever wings. In England, H. B. Howard published papers in 1928 and in 1930, in which the theory of, and a few examples for, the graphical solution of shear and bending moment were worked out. Unfortunately the nomenclature and symbols used in those two publications were in accordance with British practice and therefore, somewhat inconvenient for direct reference and use by American engineers. Since that time there have appeared numerous problems and applications worked out for shear and bending moments, where the symbols and nomenclature used were according to American practice. W. R. Jones presented the theory and worked out in general form several problems for ready use as reference by engineers, and also gave analytical solutions as a check for shear and bending moments in each problem. A further step in this direction was made by Boyd C. Stephens, when he solved nineteen representative cases including various loadings and moments of inertia.
Molecular Pathogenesis of MDS

Clonal disorders of hematopoiesis, such as myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and myeloproliferative diseases (MPD), affect both hematopoietic stem cells and progenitor cells within the erythroid, platelet and granulocytic lineages and can have devastating consequences in children and adults. The genetic features of these diseases often include clonal, nonrandom chromosomal deletions (e.g., 7q-, 5q-, 20q-, 6q-, 11q- and 13q-) that appear to inactivate tumor suppressor genes required for the normal development of myeloid cells (reviewed in Bench and Fenaux). These putative tumor suppressors have proved to be much more difficult to identify than oncogenes activated by chromosomal translocations, the other major class of chromosomal lesions in MDS and MPD. Although MDS and MPD are almost certainly caused by mutations in stem/progenitor cells, the role of inactivated tumor suppressor genes in this process remains poorly understood. In a small portion of myeloid diseases, mutations have been identified in genes encoding factors known to be required for normal hematopoiesis, such as PU.1, RUNX1, CTNNA1 (alpha-catenin) and c/EBPalpha, and implicating these genes as tumor suppressors. Nonetheless, the identities of most deletion-associated tumor suppressors in these diseases remains elusive, despite complete sequencing of the human genome. The deleted regions detected by cytogenetic methods are generally very large, containing many hundreds of genes, thus making it hard to locate the critical affected gene or genes. It is also unclear whether dysfunctional myelopoiesis results from haploinsufficiency, associated with the deletion of one allele, or from homozygous inactivation due to additional point mutations or microdeletions of the retained wild-type allele. In general MDS have proved surprisingly resistant to conventional treatments. Targeted therapeutic advances in MDS will likely depend on a full comprehension of underlying molecular mechanisms, in particular the tumor suppressor genes lost through clonal, nonrandom chromosomal deletions, such as the 7q- and (del)5q.
THE USE OF DAF IN STUTTERING THERAPY

(1970). The Use of Daf in Stuttering Therapy. British Journal of Disorders of Communication: Vol. 5, No. 1, pp. 40-45.
Energetic electrons as an energy transport mechanism in solar flares

We review the observations and theory relating to the role of energetic electrons in the solar flare, with particular emphasis on discriminating between “thermal” and “nonthermal” origins of these electrons. We discuss diagnostics in hard X-rays, especially those relating to the recent observations of the SMM and HINOTORI satellites. We also briefly address the response of the atmosphere to energy input in the form of high energy electrons, in particular through the diagnostics of both the Fe Kα feature and optically thin transition region lines such as OV. Finally, we discuss the relative roles of electron and proton heating in γ-ray flare events.
Transactional boosting: a methodology for highly-concurrent transactional objects

We describe a methodology for transforming a large class of highly-concurrent linearizable objects into highly-concurrent transactional objects. As long as the linearizable implementation satisfies certain regularity properties (informally, that every method has an inverse), we define a simple wrapper for the linearizable implementation that guarantees that concurrent transactions without inherent conflicts can synchronize at the same granularity as the original linearizable implementation.
Toward a cDNA map of the human genome

Advances in the Human Genome Project are shaping the strategies for identifying the 50,000-100,000 human genes. High-resolution genetic maps of the human genome combined with sequencing herald an era of rapid regional definition of disease genes. However, only once their chromosome band location is known will the systematic partial sequencing of thousands of random cDNA clones provide the reagents for teh rapid assessment of the genes responsible for the inherited disorders. We now present an approach to the rapid determination of map position and therefore to the creation of a transcribed map of the human genome. Sensitive fluorescence in situ hybridization has been combined with high-resolution chromosome banding and random cDNA sequencing to map 41 cDNAs with an average insert size of <2 kb to single human chromosome bands. The result provide 15 new genes, with database and functional information, as candidates for human disease. These include the large extracellular signal-related kinase (HUMERK), the ERK activator kinase (PRKMK1), a new member of the RAS oncogene family, protein phosphatase 2 regulatory subunit B alpha isoform (PPP2R2A), and a novel human gene with very high homology to a plant membrane transport family. Further, an analysis of expressed genes associated with pseudogenes showed that by using these techniques, it is possible to detect accurately the transcribed locus within a multigene or processed pseudogene family in most cases. These findings suggest that direct cDNA mapping using fluorescence in situ hybridization provides an accurate and rapid approach to the definition of a transcribed map of the human genome. This low-cost, high-resolution (2-5 Mb) mapping greatly enhances the speed with which these genes can be subsequently assigned to contigs. This assignment provides a necessary first step in understanding the relationship of the genes to both acquired and inherited human diseases.
Is Transcription Factor Binding Site Turnover a Sufficient Explanation for Cis-Regulatory Sequence Divergence?

The molecular evolution of cis-regulatory sequences is not well understood. Comparisons of closely related species show that cis-regulatory sequences contain a large number of sites constrained by purifying selection. In contrast, there are a number of examples from distantly related species where cis-regulatory sequences retain little to no sequence similarity but drive similar patterns of gene expression. Binding site turnover, whereby the gain of a redundant binding site enables loss of a previously functional site, is one model by which cis-regulatory sequences can diverge without a concurrent change in function. To determine whether cis-regulatory sequence divergence is consistent with binding site turnover, we examined binding site evolution within orthologous intergenic sequences from 14 yeast species defined by their syntenic relationships with adjacent coding sequences. Both local and global alignments show that nearly all distantly related orthologous cis-regulatory sequences have no significant level of sequence similarity but are enriched for experimentally identified binding sites. Yet, a significant proportion of experimentally identified binding sites that are conserved in closely related species are absent in distantly related species and so cannot be explained by binding site turnover. Depletion of binding sites depends on the transcription factor but is detectable for a quarter of all transcription factors examined. Our results imply that binding site turnover is not a sufficient explanation for cis-regulatory sequence evolution.
To Conserve or Not to Conserve: Is Status the Question?

Previous research has demonstrated that environmentally friendly behavior is perceived as low status, which can explain why such behavior is not more widespread. However, greater awareness of environmental issues and the advent of a “green” movement may have seen a change in those attitudes. As some conservation behaviors used in past research may have been conflated with lower socioeconomic status, Study 1 identified financially neutral behaviors so that SES would not be confused for status in general. Study 2 utilized two of those behaviors to investigate whether engaging in conservation behavior per se is viewed as low status. Participants rated a target who performed either zero, one, or two conservation behaviors. Counter to earlier research, it was found that neither number nor type of environmental behaviors performed affected the perceived status of the target. These results suggest that attitudes toward conservation behavior may be improving; implications for increasing environmentally friendly b...
Singlet Oxygen Signaling: From Intimate to Global

Reactive oxidizing species (ROS), such as hydrogen peroxide, nitric oxide, superoxide anion, and singlet oxygen, can damage cells as well as initiate responses such as new gene expression. The cell response evoked is strongly dependent on several factors. The subcellular location for formation of an ROS may be especially important for a highly reactive ROS, because it diffuses only a very short distance before reacting with a cellular molecule. How does a short-lived, locally acting ROS trigger responses at distant subcellular sites? This issue is discussed in light of a study of gene expression initiated by singlet oxygen, a ROS that exists for less than 100 ns in cells. Singlet oxygen is generated after a photosensitizer absorbs light energy and transfers the energy to molecular oxygen. To assess the role of singlet oxygen in light-induced gene expression in Arabidopsis, a mutant was used that accumulates the photosensitizer protochlorphyllide in chloroplasts. Three mechanisms are discussed that may connect the site of singlet oxygen formation to the signal transduction components: (i) direct oxidation of a signaling component by singlet oxygen, (ii) formation of oxidation products near the sites of singlet oxygen formation that diffuse to and react with signaling components, and (iii) alteration of the redox balance of the cell to a more oxidized state such that a greater proportion of a signaling pathway component is oxidized.
Oxidation of lysine side-chains of elastin by the myeloperoxidase system and by stimulated human neutrophils

Abstract Exposure of [ 3 H]-lysine labeled elastin to either purified myeloper-oxidase plus H 2 O 2 and halides or human neutrophils plus phorbol myristate acetate resulted in oxidation of lysine side chains quantitated as 3 H 2 O release. In both the enzyme and cell systems oxidation was blocked by azide, cyanide or catalase, but not by β-aminopropionitrile, an inhibitor of lysyl oxidase. Myeloperoxidase-deficient neutrophils were ineffective unless exogenous myeloperoxidase was added. These data provide a biochemical basis for inflammatory changes in connective tissue proteins mediated by oxidant secretory products of neutrophils.
Probing the domain structure of FtsZ by random truncation and insertion of GFP.

Random transposon-mediated mutagenesis has been used to create truncations and insertions of green fluorescent protein (GFP), and Venus-yellow fluorescent protein (YFP), in Escherichia coli FtsZ. Sixteen unique insertions were obtained, and one of them, in the poorly conserved C-terminal spacer, was functional for cell division with the Venus-YFP insert. The insertion of enhanced GFP (eGFP) at this same site was not functional; Venus-YFP was found to be superior to eGFP in other respects too. Testing the constructs for dominant negative effects led to the following general conclusion. The N-terminal domain, aa 1–195, is an independently folding domain that can poison Z-ring function when expressed without a functional C-terminal domain. The effects were weak, requiring expression of the mutant at 3–5 times the level of wild-type FtsZ. The C-terminal domain, aa 195–383, was also independently folding, but had no activity in vivo. The differential activity of the N- and C-terminal domains suggests that FtsZ protofilament assembly is directional, with subunits adding primarily at the bottom of the protofilament. Directional assembly could occur by either a treadmilling or a dynamic instability mechanism.
Hadronic Contributions to the Anomalous Magnetic Moment of the Muon

We have evaluated the hadronic contribution to the muon anomaly arising from diagrams containing hadronic light-by-light scattering subdiagrams using two different models. Our result is 49(5) x 10/sup -11/ which disagrees with an earlier calculation. We have also improved the contribution of the hadronic vacuum polarization diagrams to second- and fourth-order QED diagrams, using the latest experimental data. The results are 707(19) x 10/sup -10/ and -90(5) x 10/sup -11/, respectively. The complete hadronic contribution is thus 703(19) x 10/sup -10/. The remaining error comes predominantly from the experimental inputs needed for evaluating the hadronic vacuum polarization effect.
Cytoskeletal Protein Gene Expression after Neuronal Injury Recapitulates Developmental Patterns

Cytoskeletal proteins play a crucial role in providing the structural support for all eukaryotic cells. Neurons, in particular, require an intact and well-organized cytoskeleton to perform their normal function of transmitting information throughout the nervous system. Neurons are specialized for this function by virtue of their unique structure: a central cell body, numerous dendritic extensions which receive information from other neurons, and an elongated axon which can transmit information to other neurons. Cytoskeletal proteins are vital to maintaining the integrity of these specialized processes. Disruptions of the cytoskeleton perturb neuronal structure and cause dysfunction of the nervous system.
Evaluating persistent altered mental status after status epilepticus

Autoimmune limbic encephalitis (LE)—either paraneoplastic or nonparaneoplastic—presents with neurobehavioral or focal changes. In more than 50% of patients with LE, seizures are observed.1 18F-FDG-PET may show focal hypermetabolism, especially in the mesial temporal region, suggestive of LE.2 Concomitant seizure activity must be excluded, emphasizing the role of continuous EEG (cEEG).
Characterization of Micromist for Effective Minimum Quantity Lubrication

This research characterizes flow of micromist for machining purpose. Liquid lubricant with contact angle less than 5° is chosen for best wetting on workpiece and tool materials. A high nozzle air speed of 100 m/s produces micromist with 20° spherical cone angle containing droplets of 4 μm average diameter, but smaller droplets might raise an environmental concern. Preliminary comparative tests show a significant reduction of tool wear when machining 4140 steel in minimum quantity lubrication.
TRPM channels and magnesium in early embryonic development.

Magnesium (Mg2+) is the second most abundant cellular cation and is essential for all stages of life, from the early embryo to adult. Mg2+ deficiency causes or contributes to many human diseases, including migraine headaches, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, hypotension, type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiac arrhythmias. Although the concentration of Mg2+ in the extracellular environment can vary significantly, the total intracellular Mg2+ concentration is actively maintained within a relatively narrow range (14 – 20 mM) via tight, yet poorly understood, regulation of intracellular Mg2+ by Mg2+ transporters and Mg2+-permeant ion channels. Recent studies have continued to add to the growing number of Mg2+ transporters and ion channels involved in Mg2+ homeostasis, including TRPM6 and TRPM7, members of the transient receptor potential (TRP) ion channel family. Mutations in TRPM6, including amino acid substitutions that prevent its heterooligomerization with TRPM7, occur in the rare autosomal-recessive disease hypomagnesemia with secondary hypocalcemia (HSH). Genetic ablation of either gene in mice results in early embryonic lethality, raising the question of whether these channels’ capacity to mediate Mg2+ influx plays an important role in embryonic development. Here we review what is known of the function of Mg2+ in early development and summarize recent findings regarding the function of the TRPM6 and TRPM7 ion channels during embryogenesis.
A Mobile Platform with a Dual-wheel Caster-drive Mechanism for Holonomic and Omnidirectional Mobile Robots

In this paper, a new wheel mechanism for holonomic and omnidirectional mobile robots is presented. The caster drive technique is one of the feasible solutions to allow a vehicle to have holonomic and omnidirectional mobile capability with standard wheels. The caster drive is applied to a differential drive mechanism. A drive unit equips with two drive wheels driven by individual motors. The rotational stage, driven by the third motor, is mounted on the drive unit with its rotational center locating at the off centered position from the mid point of the two driving wheels. The translational position and velocity of a mobile base are controlled by the differential-drive mechanism executing a caster like behavior. The orientation of the mobile base is controlled by the rotational stage decoupled with the translational motion of the drive unit. The vehicle 3DOF are controlled by the three motors, hence the system includes no over constraint problem. In addition, the drive mechanism is very simple and could be implemented by using a traditional differential-drive mechanism.
A Pole with a Stake in Asian American Literature

In 1990s Poland, the answer to the question why I study Asian American literature could be brief and dismissive. Even today, Polish academics schooled in the tradition of European humanism are free to assume that their research interests are natural and politically neutral. At best, the choice to study ethnic literature passes without comment; at worst, it is viewed as a "politically correct" choice tantamount to academic self-marginalization. Thus, nothing prepared me for the rigorous examination of my academic interests when I arrived at UCLA in 1994. Getting through immigration and customs had been comparatively easy. The real interrogations started on campus: Why are you interested in Asian American literature? What's your stake? Are you aware of your privileged position? Have you thought about your accountability? These questions came over and over again. The harder I tried to deliver my thoughts on how I relate to Asian American literature, the less convincing they sounded. In my first year of gradu...
Asymmetric Synthesis and Metal Complexes of a C3-Symmetric P-Stereogenic Triphosphine, (R)-MeSi(CH2PMe(t-Bu))3 (MT-Siliphos)

Asymmetric deprotonation of PMe2(t-Bu)(BH3) with s-BuLi/(−)-sparteine, followed by treatment with MeSiCl3, gave a 2.6:1 mixture of the C3- and C1-symmetric triphosphine–boranes MeSi(CH2PMe(t-Bu)(BH3))3 (3). Recrystallization gave highly diastereomerically and enantiomerically enriched C3-3. After deprotection with morpholine, the triphosphine (R)-MeSi(CH2PMe(t-Bu))3 (4; (Me, t-Bu)-Siliphos or MT-Siliphos) was used to prepare the metal complexes [Rh(MT-Siliphos)(norbornadiene)][OTf] (5), Ru(MT-Siliphos)(DMSO)Cl2 (6), [Ru(MT-Siliphos)(NCMe)3][OTf]2 (7), M(MT-Siliphos)(PPh3) (M = Pd (8), Pt (9)), Cu(MT-Siliphos)(Cl) (10), and polymeric [Cu2Cl2(μ-(κ2,κ1)-MT-Siliphos)]∞ (11). The crystal structures of C3-3 and of complexes 5, 7, and 11 were determined, and dynamic processes in 6 and 8 were characterized by variable-temperature NMR spectroscopy.
Paradoxical embolus-in-evolution.

An embolus is termed “paradoxical” when it originates in a systemic vein and crosses over into the systemic arterial circulation via a right-to-left shunt. Although several pathways are theoretical possibilities, the pathogenesis of paradoxical emboli often is speculative. The discovery at necropsy of an embolus trapped within a patent foramen ovale in a patient who died with multiple pulmonary arterial emboli is presented. This rarelydocumented finding is considered to be an example of a paradoxical embolusin-evolution. Clinical implications of such an embolic occlusion are discussed.
Dispersion-based stimulated Raman scattering spectroscopy, holography, and optical coherence tomography(Conference Presentation)

Stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) enables fast, high resolution imaging of chemical constituents important to biological structures and functional processes. While this technology has shown remarkable potential, it is currently limited to point scanning and can only probe a few Raman bands at a time. In this work we take a fundamentally different approach to detecting the small nonlinear signals based on dispersion effects that accompany the loss/gain processes in SRS. We use a modified pump-probe system (pulses with duration of ~0.5 ps and 75 fs, respectively) with interferometric detection in the Fourier-domain to demonstrate that the dispersive measurements are more robust to noise (e.g., laser noise) compared to conventional amplitude measurements, which in turn permits facile spectral and spatial multiplexing. Results show that it is possible to assess a broadband dispersion spectrum (currently limited to ~400 cm-1) with a single laser shot or spectrometer acquisition (20-50 µs). For molecular imaging with broadband spectral information, we achieve spatial pixel rates of 2.5 kHz, and will discuss how this can be further improved to 20-50 kHz. We also combine SRS with optical coherence tomography (OCT) (molecular and structural information are rendered from the same data), which enables axial multiplexing by coherence gating and paves the way for volumetric biochemical imaging. The approach is tested on a thin water-and-oil phantom, a thick scattering polystyrene bead phantom, and thick freshly excised human adipose tissue. Finally, we will outline other opportunities for spatial multiplexing using wide-field holography and spectroscopic-OCT, which would massively parallelize the spatial and spectral information. The combination of dispersion-based SRS and phase imaging has the potential to enable faster wide-area and volumetric molecular imaging. Such methods would be valuable in a clinical setting for many applications.
Investigation on current situation of blood lead levels among primary and middle school students in Anyang County in 2011

[Objective]To know the blood lead levels and over standard status among primary and middle school students in Anyang County,provide a scientific basis for government department to develop the intervention and treatment measures.[Methods]30 primary and middle schools were randomly sampled.The finger capillary blood samples were collected,and tested by electrochemical method.The students whose blood lead levels were higher than 0.483 μmol/L were detected again by atomic absorption spectrometry.[Results]Among 1 532 students,the blood lead levels of 453 students were higher than 0.483 μmol/L,which accounted for 29.6%.The exceeding standard rate of blood lead levels in boys was significantly higher than that in girls(χ2=23.47,P0.01).The exceeding standard rate of blood lead levels in junior middle school students was significantly higher than that in primary school students(χ2=38.33,P0.01).The exceeding standard rate in students in western region(industrial area) was higher than that in students in eastern region(agricultural area) significantly(χ2=60.08,P0.01).[Conclusion]The blood lead level among primary and middle school students in Anyang County is closely related to environmental pollution and bad living habits.
(Second) Harmonic Disharmony: Nonlinear Microscopy Shines New Light on the Pathology of Atherosclerosis

There has been increasing interest in second harmonic generation (SHG) imaging approaches for the investigation of atherosclerosis due to the deep penetration and three-dimensional sectioning capabilities of the nonlinear optical microscope. Atherosclerosis involves remodeling or alteration of the collagenous framework in affected vessels. The disease is often characterized by excessive collagen deposition and altered collagen organization. SHG has the capability to accurately characterize collagen structure, which is an essential component in understanding atherosclerotic lesion development and progression. As a structure-based imaging modality, SHG is most impactful in atherosclerosis evaluation in conjunction with other, chemically specific nonlinear optics (NLO) techniques to identify additional components of the lesion. These include the use of coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering and two-photon excitation fluorescence for studying atherosclerosis burden, and application of stimulated Raman scattering to image cholesterol crystals. However, very few NLO studies have attempted to quantitate differences in control versus atherosclerotic states or to correlate the application to clinical situations. This review highlights the potential of SHG imaging to directly and indirectly describe atherosclerosis as a pathological condition.
Arguments for a Spiritual Urbanism

The built environment may and should be utilized to address the extraordinary problems afflicting contemporary civilization. This speculation follows a fourfold logic. First, humanity is facing an unprecedented crisis in speed and scale. Second, a serious response demands a worldview depending on and advancing spirituality. Third, traditional faiths cannot effect the necessary spiritual shift at the pace or degree required. More intense and successful spiritual practices extracted from religions and scientifically validated offer better chances for wide deployment and therefore impact. Fourth, the built environment is well suited to induce and reinforce some of these ‘new’ spiritual practices given (a) its shaping role in cultural affairs; (2) humanity being an urban phenomenon, and (3) the huge population growth of the next half century.
Tractable sampling strategies for quantile-based ordinal optimization

This paper describes and analyzes the problem of selecting the best of several alternatives ("systems"), where they are compared based on quantiles of their performances. The quantiles cannot be evaluated analytically but it is possible to sequentially sample from each system. The objective is to dynamically allocate a finite sampling budget to minimize the probability of falsely selecting non-best systems. To formulate this problem in a tractable form, we introduce an objective associated with the probability of false selection using large deviations theory and leverage it to design well-performing dynamic sampling policies. We first propose a naive policy that optimizes the aforementioned objective when the sampling budget is sufficiently large. We introduce two variants of the naive policy with the aim of improving finite-time performance; these policies retain the asymptotic performance of the naive one in some cases, while dramatically improving its finite-time performance.
ELECTRON-TRANSFER MODEL FOR E'-CENTER OPTICAL ABSORPTION IN SiO2

ABSTRACT A model is proposed to account for the 5.85 eV optical absorption of the E' center in SiO 2 . It is assumed with Feigl, Fowler, and Yip that the E' center comprises an O - vacancy with an asymmetric relaxation which localizes the unpaired electron in a dangling sp 3 orbital of one neighboring silicon (I) while the other silicon (II) has relaxed into the plane defined by its three oxygen neighbors. The suggestion that the 5.85 eV transition involves electron transfer from Si (I) to Si (II) is considered here in terms of the energy surfaces involved in the pseudo-Jahn-Teller effect. It is found that a plausible parameterization leads to a good fit to the experimental peak position and oscillator strength but not to the band width. Potential modifications to the present approach are discussed in light of the band width discrepancy and also constraints imposed by electron spin resonance data.
Current Progress and Future Prospects in Nucleic Acid Based Therapeutics

Functional nucleic acids have been gaining escalated attention and extensive research has been performed for the purpose of developing this new class of therapeutics. The challenges in development of nucleic acid based therapeutics include their extremely unstable nature in biological fluid, poor pharmacokinetic (PK) properties, and potential activation of innate immunity. Gaining a better understanding of target biology, PK properties, and functional pathways of therapeutic agents will facilitate approaches to improve their properties, and thus enhance clinical development of nucleic acid based therapeutics. In this chapter we discuss the current advances and potential challenges in the development of synthetic and biochemically produced nucleic acid therapeutics along with mechanisms of action for each technology.