cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
SU-E-J-58: Patient-Specific Biomechanical Head and Neck Models for Interfraction Dose Accumulation.

Purpose: In this abstract, we discuss a biomechanical head and neck model that will be able to represent patient setup variations as well as physiologic changes and subsequently enable dose calculations on the deformed anatomy.Methods: We selected Multi Pose MRI as the imaging modality to aid in model development and validation. The MRI data allowed us to build a biomechanically predictive model that will enable accurate estimation of tumor position when seeded with CT data alone. The soft tissuecontrast and lack of ionizing radiation when using MRI enabled us to acquire extensive imaging datasets with a suitable variety of head pose variations. These poses were selected to encompass the clinical positioning variations so that the resulting model will accurately reflect internal organ motion and deformation. All images were acquired using an 8‐channel, 1.5T research MRI system in radiology. The imaging volume extended from about T3(upper thoracic vertebrae) to the top of the head, thereby covering the entire head and neck. Model components included: muscles, skeletal bones, lymph nodes, fat tissues, and organs such as salivary glands, tendons, andligaments. At first, one MRIimage dataset was selected as the reference image. The biometric properties (length, volume, mass, shape), hinge constraints of the bones, and the biomechanical properties of each of the anatomies were estimated using MRIs acquired at different head and neck poses. Results: The model's ability to represent different head and neck postures can be illustrated by observing the internal tissue deformations andthe model's ability to represent different postures. Conclusions: Results show that the biomechanical model was able to simulate different poses that may be exhibited during interfraction patient setup variations and intrafraction patient motion. Future work would focus on integrating dose calculations on the deforming model and validating the model deformations.
Cycloalkane constituents of the bitumen from Green River Shale

Abstract Fifty-two cyclic alkanes, isolated from the bitumen of Green River Shale, were analyzed by mass spectrometry. The molecular formula of each cycloalkane was determined and, where possible, structural assignments were proposed for the alkanes on the basis of principal fragment ions and similarities in spectra to products of known configuration. Structural resemblance of these cycloalkanes to the hydrocarbon framework of biologically derived isoprenoid lipids was noted. Twenty-one cycloalkanes displayed fragmentation patterns similar to tetraalkyl substituted cyclohexanes. These compounds probably had their origin in carotenoid pigments. Six additional cyclic hydrocarbons produced mass spectra resembling the spectra of alkyl substituted hexahydroindanes. A progenitor of these compounds may be the indane portion of vitamin D, formed from the irradiation of steroidal plant debris. Mass spectra of eight other cycloalkanes suggest a structural similarity to alkyl substituted gonanes (steranes) and were probably derived from plant steroids. Fifteen of the cyclic alkanes (six tricyclic and eleven pentacyclic) produce mass spectra similar to the hydrocarbon skeletons of pentacyclic triterpenoids and could have been derived from them.
Regulation of counterregulatory hormone secretion in man during exercise and hypoglycemia.

We examined the role of the plasma glucose concentration per se in the secretion of counterregulatory hormones during exercise. Ten men (average age, 24 yr; maximal aerobic capacity, 31.8 mL/kg-min) were studied during two 50- min bicycle exercise periods at either normal glucose [87 ± 1 (± SE) mg/dL (4.8 ±0.1 mmol/L)] or low glucose [59± 1 mg/dL (3.3 ± 0.1 mmol/L)]. The plasma glucose targets were achieved by exogenous insulin and variable glucose infusions. These results were compared to studies in which saline was infused. Exercise at normal glucose was associated with significant increments in plasma epinephrine (maximum 3- to 5-fold above baseline) and norepinephrine (2-fold), comparable to those that occurred during saline administration. Plasma GH increased only at the most intense exercise level, while plasma cortisol and glucagon did not increase significantly. In low glucose-exercise studies, the increase in plasma epinephrine during exercise was significantly greater than that at normal glucose...
Prospects for reconstruction of seasonal environment from tree-ring δ13C: baseline findings from the Great Lakes area, USA

Abstract Plant δ 13 C and discrimination (Δ≈δ 13 C air −δ 13 C plant ) embody ecophysiological response to environmental conditions influencing rates of carbon fixation and stomatal conductance. This study scrutinizes the seasonal variation of δ 13 C and Δ in growth rings developed in 1990, as represented in trees of 11 species at three sites along a 5° latitude transect in Illinois and Wisconsin, USA. Radial stem xylem growth of the trees was monitored with monthly punch cores, and the resulting growth curves precisely identified the growth period represented in the five segments into which each growth ring was subdivided. Seasonal δ 13 C variation of cellulose was usually 1–1.5‰, and the seasonal patterns were similar among angiosperm and conifer trees at a site, with angiosperms generally 13 C-depleted by 0.5–1.5‰. Seasonal δ 13 C (and Δ) patterns was different among sites, however, and regression with several environmental parameters revealed most frequent significant correlation with soil moisture (Palmer Drought Severity Index [PDSI]). The site-averaged seasonal Δ patterns track each of their divergent local seasonal drought index chronologies very well, even when isotopic curves of the different trees are simply averaged without adjustment for different growth rates. Seasonal tree-ring δ 13 C analysis is affirmed as a valuable method for assessing seasonal moisture status. Furthermore, results favor successful extension to ancient tree rings where different species and slope aspects may be represented in wood samples at a collection site, and where rates of ring development and seasonal δ 13 C air are not likely to be known.
The matrix phase microstructure of a glass poly(ethylene terephthalate) injection-molding compound†

Microscopic observations of thermoplastic poly(ethylene terephthalate) reinforced with short E-glass fibers revealed a unique matrix microstructure influenced by the orientation of densely packed glass fibers. The observed platelets tend to surround a fiber in a cylindrical sheath pattern. This observation of the crystalline platelet morphology is possible by the combination of ion-etching and the shadowing effect of protruding fibers.
GUIDING MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS THROUGH EXPOSITORY TEXT

As the middle school concept with its emphasis on the unique needs of the adolescent learner continues to gain widespread acceptance, it is essential that middle grade teachers be aware of the instructional needs of adolescents. Whereas many middle grade students are fully grown and seemingly independent socially, they may still need much guidance for classroom assignments. In fact, although classroom observational research is sparse, what exists suggests that there is a vast need for improvement in the way we have been teaching our adolescents. In a review of the existing literature, five aspects of instruction were identified as needing attention and improvement: mode of presentation, instructional format, use of textbook and materials, nature of classroom activities and questioning, and critical thinking and problem solving (Wood & Muth, 1991). This article focuses on one aspect of instruction: helping students read and comprehend their textbooks and textbook assignments.
Assessment of continuous and aerated fabric pressure-washing

Abstract A pressure-washing system was developed and assessed for the removal of residual dyes and washing of fabrics. The system was comprised of an acrylic water-tank, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene rollers, a variable water pressure system rated at 1000 psi and a set of four linear spray nozzles with various exit divergence angles. To further decrease the water consumption, heated aerated impinging jets were added to the setup. Two cameras and 3D image processing algorithms were used to monitor fabric deformation during the washing process. Results show that increasing the water pressure up to 150 psi reduced the amount of water needed and did not cause fabric distortion. A small inclination angle of 20 degrees in the direction opposite to the flow of the fabric added some efficiency to the washing process. Although temperature alone did not exhibit a strong impact on efficiency, aerated-jet experiments under a water pressure of 100 psi at 60°C showed an increase of washing efficiency over no...
Magnetism and electron pairing in high-Tc superconductors

Correlated wave functions are used for YBa2Cu3O(7-y) where epsilon(d)-epsilon(p) is about 0 for Cu3d- and 02p-electrons. The electrons are delocalized (metallic) for y less than 0.5 with weak and temperature-independent paramagnetism. In contrast, the systems are conventional antiferromagnetic insulators for y greater than 0.6 with a narrow y between 0.5 and 0.6 transition region. These results are in agreement with magnetic and neutron diffraction data.
Modeling and analyzing the dynamics of mobile wireless sensor networking infrastructures

We propose and develop a model that gives a realistic description of the various processes and their effects as a mobile self-organizing sensor based network evolves. This model provides an analytical approach that describes the dynamics of the network and facilitates the understanding of the effect of the various events on the large scale topology of a wireless mobile sensor network. Based on this analytical model, we investigate the connectivity distribution of the sensor network, with the objective of using this model to develop guidelines regarding the various processes involved in the design and operation of sensor based networks.
A 10GS/s 5-bit Ultra-Low Power DAC for Spectral Encoded Ultra-Wideband Transmitters

A 5-bit 10 Gs/s DAC for Spectral Encoded UWB transmitters is presented. A test counter is integrated on-chip to facilitate performance measurement. The chip has dimensions of 1.0 x 1.5 mm, and is implemented in a 0.18 mum SiGe BiCMOS process. The DAC operates at conversion rates of over 10 Gs/s with a power dissipation of 12 mW. Linearity results of the DAC at 5 GS/s are presented, with the DNL < plusmn0.5 LSB and INL < plusmn0.8 LSB.
Presence of 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 3 messenger ribonucleic acid transcript in an ovarian Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the level of 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17β-HSD) type 1, 2, and 3 transcripts in a Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor, adjacent theca lutein ovarian tissue, and normal control ovarian stromal tissue. Setting: An academic medical center. Design: Total RNA was extracted from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue slides and used for reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) with primers specific for 17β-HSD types 1, 2, or 3. The PCR products were subjected to Southern hybridization with 5′ [ 32 p] end-labeled internal primers for each type of the isozymes. Patient(s): A 35-year-old woman with a Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor on her right ovary. The tumor and the right ovary were surgically removed. Control ovarian stromal tissue was obtained from a woman undergoing hysterectomy for uterine leiomyomata. Result(s): In the control ovarian stromal tissue, the transcripts for the type 1 and type 2 isoforms were the predominant transcripts detected. In the Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor, the transcript for the type 3 isoform was the predominant transcript detected. Ovarian tissue from the same ovary as the Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor (diagnosed as theca lutein cysts on histologic examination) expressed the type 2 and 3 transcripts. Conclusion(s): The 17β-HSD type 3 isoform efficiently converts androstenedione to T and is the predominant HSD isoform in the testis. In hyperandrogenism caused by a Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor, both the tumor tissue and nontumor tissue from the same ovary expressed the "testicular" form of the 17β-HSD.
Regulation of proinflammatory cytokine expression in primary mouse astrocytes by coronavirus infection.

Previous studies have shown that proinflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin 6 (IL-6), are differentially induced in primary mouse astrocytes by mouse hepatitis virus strain A59 (MHV-A59) and MHV-2. However, the signaling events that trigger TNF-α and IL-6 induction in these cells upon MHV infection remain unknown. In this study, we explored the potential signaling events. We found that induction of TNF-α and IL-6 occurred as early as 2 h postinfection and was completely dependent on viral replication. Using inhibitors specific for three mitogen-activated protein kinases, we showed that induction of TNF-α and IL-6 by MHV-A59 infection was mediated through activation of the Janus N-terminal kinase signaling pathway, but not through the extracellular signal-regulated kinase or p38 signaling pathway. This finding was further confirmed with knockdown experiments using small interfering RNAs specific for Janus N-terminal kinase. Interestingly, while nuclear factor κB (NF-κB), a key transcription factor required for the expression of proinflammatory cytokines in most cell types, was activated in astrocytes during MHV-A59 infection, disruption of the NF-κB pathway by peptide inhibitors did not significantly inhibit TNF-α and IL-6 expression. Furthermore, experiments using chimeric viruses demonstrated that the viral spike and nucleocapsid proteins, which play important roles in MHV pathogenicity in mice, are not responsible for the differential induction of the cytokines. These results illustrate the complexity of the regulatory mechanism by which MHV induces proinflammatory cytokines in primary astrocytes.
The influence of early malnutrition on subsequent behavioral development. II. Classroom behavior.

The classroom behaviors of 129 Barbadian children (77 boys and 52 girls) aged 5 to 11 years, who suffered from moderate-severe protein-energy malnutrition in the first year of life were compared with those observed in children with no history of malnutrition. The data were gathered from questionnaires administered to teachers who were unaware of the child's previous nutritional history. The results demonstrated that the previously malnourished children had attention deficits, reduced social skills, poorer physical appearance and emotional instability when compared to the matched comparison children. These behavioral deficits associated with prior malnutrition were independent of IQ and were experienced to a greater extent by boys. Socioeconomic conditions at the time of the study contributed little to the behavioral deficits of the previously malnourished children, as compared with the large contribution of the history of early malnutrition or the conditions producing it.
Lack of Correlation of Symptoms With Specialist-Assessed Long-term Asthma Severity

Study objectives: To validate three indicators of asthma severity as defined in the National Asthma Education Program (NAEP) guidelines (ie, frequency of symptoms, degree of airflow obstruction, and frequency of use of oral glucocorticoids), alone and in combination, against severity as assessed by pulmonary specialists provided with 24-month medical chart data. Design: Cross-sectional comparison of questionnaire and clinical-based markers of asthma severity with physician-assessed severity based on chart review. The pulmonologists did not have access to the results of the baseline evaluations when making their severity assessments. Setting and participants: Study participants were 193 asthmatic members (age range, 6 to 55 years) of a large health maintenance organization who underwent a baseline evaluation as part of a separate longitudinal study. This evaluation consisted of spirometry, skin prick testing, and a survey that included questions on symptoms and medication use. The participants in the ancillary study were selected, based on their baseline evaluation, to reflect a broad range of asthma severity. Results: Based on the chart review, 86 of the study subjects (45%) had mild disease, 90 (45%) had moderate disease, and 17 (9%) had severe disease. This physician-assessed severity correlated highly (p 80% predicted, 60 to 80% predicted, and <60% predicted). It did not, however, correlate with current asthma symptoms (< once/week, 2 to 6 times/week, daily) (p 5 0.87). A composite severity score based on spirometry and the glucocorticoid use data still provided an overall agreement of 63%, with a weighted kappa of 0.40. Conclusions: While current symptoms are the most important concern of patients with asthma, they reflect the current level of asthma control more than underlying disease severity. Investigators must therefore use caution when comparing groups of patients for whom severity categorization is based largely on symptomatology. This observation, that symptoms alone do not reflect disease severity, becomes even more important as health-care delivery moves closer to protocols/practice guidelines and “best treatment” programs that rely heavily on symptoms to guide subsequent treatment decisions. (CHEST 1999; 115:85‐91)
The nature of calcium and thorium complexation by halate ligands

Abstract The thermodynamics of complexation of Th+4 and Ca+2 ions with chlorate, bromate, and iodate ligands were studied using solvent extraction and calorimetric techniques. The measurements were obtained at LOOM (NaClO4) ionic strength and 25[ddot]C. The results are compared to the values for complexation of Eu+3 by the same ligands and are interpreted to reflect outer sphere complexation for the chlorate complexes, an inner sphere complexation for the iodates and mixed behaviour for the bromates.
Optimized M-ary Orthogonal and Bi-Orthogonal Signaling using Coherent Receiver with Non-Equal Symbol Probabilities

In this letter we derive formulas to compute the optimized signal energy, bit error probabilities, and decision thresholds for M-ary orthogonal and bi-orthogonal signaling using a coherent receiver with non-equal symbol probabilities. We find that for non-equiprobable sources, the optimized systems (in which signal energies are optimized for non-equal probable symbols) have much lower error probabilities than the conventional systems (which use the constellation optimized for equal probable symbols).
Inference of radio-responsive gene regulatory networks using the graphical lasso algorithm

Inference of gene regulatory networks (GRNs) from gene microarray expression data is of great interest and remains a challenging task in systems biology. Despite many efforts to develop efficient computational methods, the successful modeling of GRNs thus far has been quite limited. To tackle this problem, we propose a novel framework to reconstruct radio-responsive GRNs based on the graphical lasso algorithm. In our attempt to study radiosensitivity, we reviewed the literature and analyzed two publicly available gene microarray datasets. The graphical lasso algorithm was applied to expression measurements for genes commonly found to be significant in these different analyses. Assuming that a protein-protein interaction network obtained from a reliable pathway database is a gold-standard network, a comparison between the networks estimated by the graphical lasso algorithm and the gold-standard network was performed. Statistically significant p-values were achieved when comparing the gold-standard network with networks estimated from one microarray dataset and when comparing the networks estimated from two microarray datasets. Our results show the potential to identify new interactions between genes that are not present in a curated database and GRNs using microarray datasets via the graphical lasso algorithm.
A resilience roadmap

Technology scaling has an increasing impact on the resilience of CMOS circuits. This outcome is the result of (a) increasing sensitivity to various intrinsic and extrinsic noise sources as circuits shrink, and (b) a corresponding increase in parametric variability causing behavior similar to what would be expected with hard (topological) faults. This paper examines the issue of circuit resilience, then proposes and demonstrates a roadmap for evaluating fault rates starting at the 45nm and going down to the 12nm nodes. The complete infrastructure necessary to make these predictions is placed in the open source domain, with the hope that it will invigorate research in this area.
1-cyano-2,3-epithiopropane as the primary sinigrin hydrolysis product of fresh cabbage

Dichloromethane extracts of juices from fresh cabbages, including four known (Brutus, Galaxy, Bentley, Structon) and two unknown cultivars, were analyzed by GC-MS for the presence of sinigrin degradation products. Allyl isothiocyanate (AITC), which has been reported to be the important aroma compound of freshly disrupted cabbage was not detected in any of the dichloromethane extracts of cabbage juice. Instead, 1-cyano-2,3-epithiopropane, which is one of the isomers of AITC, was the primary volatile compound in all cabbage extracts. AITC was detected in relative trace concentration only when cabbage juice was injected into the GC, using a wide bore, packed column. Thus, the relative importance of AITC and 1-cyano-2,3-epithiopropane to the aroma of freshly disrupted cabbage should be considered
Comparative genomics reveals unusually long motifs in mammalian genomes

Between short regulatory motifs and long ‘ultraconserved’ regions lies a whole spectrum of functional elements that remains uncharted. – Manolis Kellis, RECOMB Regulatory Genomics satellite workshop, December 2005 Motivation: The recent discovery of the first small modulatory RNA (smRNA) presents the challenge of finding other molecules of similar length and conservation level. Unlike short interfering RNA (siRNA) and micro-RNA (miRNA), effective computational and experimental screening methods are not currently known for this species of RNA molecule, and the discovery of the one known example was partly fortuitous because it happened to be complementary to a well-studied DNA binding motif (the Neuron Restrictive Silencer Element). Results: The existing comparative genomics approaches (e.g., phylogenetic footprinting) rely on alignments of orthologous regions across multiple genomes. This approach, while extremely valuable, is not suitable for finding motifs with highly diverged “non-alignable” flanking regions. Here we show that several unusually long and well conserved motifs can be discovered de novo through a comparative genomics approach that does not require an alignment of orthologous upstream regions. These motifs, including Neuron Restrictive Silencer Element, were missed in recent comparative genomics studies that rely on phylogenetic footprinting. While the functions of these motifs remain unknown, we argue that some may represent biologically important sites. Availability: Our comparative genomics software, a web-accessible database of our results and a compilation of experimentally validated binding sites for NRSE can be found at. Contact: ppevzner@cs.ucsd.edu
par-1, a Gene Required for Establishing Polarity in C. Elegans Embryos, Encodes a Putative Ser/Thr Kinase That Is Asymmetrically Distributed

Abstract The first cleavage of C. elegans is asymmetric, generating daughter cells with different sizes, cytoplasmic components, and fates. Mutations in the par -1 gene disrupt this asymmetry. We report here that par -1 encodes a putative Ser/Thr kinase with similarity to kinases from yeasts and mammals. Two strong alleles have mutations in the kinase domain, suggesting that kinase activity is essential for par -1 function. PAR-1 protein is localized to the posterior periphery of the zygote and is distributed in a polar fashion preceding the asymmetric divisions of the germline lineage. Because PAR-1 distribution in the germline correlates with the distribution of germline-specific P granules, it is possible that PAR-1 functions in germ line development as well as in establishing embryonic polarity.
"Human-computer interaction in life drawing, a fine artist's perspective"

Experiments in human-computer interaction (HCI) are presented from my perspective as an artist who teaches Life Drawing at California State University Long Beach. I discuss original cybertouch figures created with Steven Schkolne's unprecedented Surface Drawing software, linked to Responsive Workbench projects supported by the Caltech Multi-Res Modeling Group. The Workbench and the tangible interface tools are described. I use the proprietary software in a unique way to draw live models, a purpose for which it was not intended. This work is addressed in context with fine art exhibitions "Siggraph 2000", and "The Cyborg Manifesto, or The Joy of Artifice" in 2001. The artists re-examine a sense of our bodies, technology and culture. Their philosophical insights are presented in contrast to "old school" humanist values fostered in the Life Drawing Gallery, an interactive Web site for students. Brief conclusions highlight an evolving cultural paradigm for human identity and portrayal.
A Multidrug Resistance–Associated Protein Involved in Anthocyanin Transport in Zea mays

Anthocyanin biosynthesis is one of the most thoroughly studied enzymatic pathways in biology, but little is known about the molecular mechanisms of its final stage: the transport of the anthocyanin pigment into the vacuole. We have identified a multidrug resistance-associated protein (MRP), ZmMrp3, that is required for this transport process in maize (Zea mays). ZmMrp3 expression is controlled by the regulators of anthocyanin biosynthesis and mirrors the expression of other anthocyanin structural genes. Localization of ZmMRP3 in vivo shows its presence in the tonoplast, the site at which anthocyanin transport occurs. Mutants generated using antisense constructs have a distinct pigmentation phenotype in the adult plant that results from a mislocalization of the pigment as well as significant reduction in anthocyanin content, with no alteration in the anthocyanin species produced. Surprisingly, mutant plants did not show a phenotype in the aleurone. This appears to reflect the presence of a second, highly homologous gene, ZmMrp4, that is also coregulated with the anthocyanin pathway but is expressed exclusively in aleurone tissue. This description of a plant MRP with a role in the transport of a known endogenous substrate provides a new model system for examining the biological and biochemical mechanisms involved in the MRP-mediated transport of plant secondary metabolites.
Where excludability matters: Material versus intellectual property in academic biomedical research

On the basis of survey responses from 507 academic biomedical researchers, we examine the impact of patents on access to the knowledge and material inputs that are used in subsequent research. We observe that access to knowledge inputs is largely unaffected by patents. Accessing other researchers’ materials and/or data, such as cell lines, reagents, or unpublished information is, however, more problematic. The main factors associated with restricted access to materials and/or data include scientific competition, the cost of providing materials, a history of commercial activity on the part of the prospective supplier, and whether the material in question is itself a drug. © 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Minimally invasive plate fixation of lower limb injury in horses: 32 cases (1999-2003).

Summary Reasons for performing study: Complications of osteosynthesis including superficial and deep infections continue to affect adversely outcome in equine surgery of the lower limb. Objective: To describe a technique for minimally invasive plate fixation in horses and evaluate clinical results of the technique. Hypothesis: Lower complication rates would occur in horses treated with a minimally invasive approach compared with conventional techniques. Methods: Cases of minimally invasive plate fixation from January 1999 to December 2003 were evaluated. Case records, radiographs and race records for horses that sustained distal third metacarpal/metatarsal (Mc/tIII) condylar fractures were assessed. Follow-up information was obtained and results analysed. In addition, results for horses that received arthrodesis by a conventional, open approach during the same period were evaluated and statistical analysis was performed. Results: Thirty-two cases of minimally invasive plate fixation were identified (22 incomplete distal Mc/tIII condylar fractures with a spiralling or diaphyseal component, 10 metacar pophalange al arthrodes es and 4 pastern arthrodeses). For both types of arthrodesis, surgery times and infection rates were lower and survival rates higher in the minimally invasive group, but no statistical difference was found. Spiralling condylar fractures were successfully managed, without catastrophic fracture. Conclusions and potential relevance: Minimally invasive percutaneous plate osteosynthesis (MIPPO) can be successfully used for select applications in horses, and may reduce morbidity and mortality in equine fracture repair.
Understanding awareness at the neuronal level

Velmans recounts many interesting results, though we should note that some of the more challenging ones (e.g., those of Lackner & Garrett 1973) seem not to have been studied further, whereas others, such as those concerning hypnosis, are controversial. Rather than discuss these in detail we prefer to comment briefly on the 10 points in his summary and then to describe our own approach to these difficult problems.
Targeting the ubiquitin-proteasome system for cancer therapy.

Introduction: The ubiquitin–proteasome system (UPS) degrades 80 – 90% of intracellular proteins. Cancer cells take advantage of the UPS for their increased growth and decreased apoptotic cell death. Thus, the components that make up the UPS represent a diverse group of potential anti-cancer targets. The success of the first-in-class proteasome inhibitor bortezomib not only proved that the proteasome is a feasible and valuable anti-cancer target, but also inspired researchers to extensively explore other potential targets of this pathway. Areas covered: This review provides a broad overview of the UPS and its role in supporting cancer development and progression, especially in aspects of p53 inactivation, p27 turnover and NF-κB activation. Also, efforts toward the development of small molecule inhibitors (SMIs) targeting different steps in this pathway for cancer treatment are reviewed and discussed. Expert opinion: Whereas some of the targets in the UPS, such as the 20S proteasome, Nedd8 activating enzyme...
Observability-Based Optimal Sensor Placement for Flapping Airfoil Wake Estimation

This work considers the optimal sensor placement problem for a general nonlinear system using the eigenvalues of the observability Gramian in the cost function. The problem is formulated as a mixed-integer convex optimization problem. Using the empirical observability Gramian, the input data to this optimization problem are computed from a simulation of the nonlinear system with no analytical model required. A piecewise linear approximation to the observability Gramian is proposed using special ordered sets of type two, allowing a coarser sensor location mesh and thus fewer binary variables and shorter solution times compared with standard gridded approaches. The solution methodology is applied to vortex estimation in the wake of a flapping airfoil using velocity sensors on the surface of the airfoil, which is modeled using unsteady potential flow and a Joukowski conformal mapping. Resulting optimal sensor sets are found near the trailing edge in pairs on the upper and lower surface. Although the observab...
EBSD: Buying a System

In the three articles that follow, manufacturers of commercial electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) units describe aspects of their systems. These articles provide a snapshot of the state-of-the-art hardware and software capabilities at the beginning of the year 2000. However, things are changing very rapidly in this new and exciting field. EBSD is very important. It will revolutionize scanning electron microscopy for all applications that involve crystalline material. More than that, EBSD will have a major impact on other fields. Many characterization experiments that would have been done using other techniques will now be done, and done better, using EBSD on the scanning electron microscope (SEM).
Primary Productivity and Precipitation-Use Efficiency in Mixed-Grass Prairie: A Comparison of Northern and Southern US Sites

Precipitation-use efficiency (PUE) is a key determinant of aboveground net primary production (ANPP). We used long-term datasets to contrast ANPP and PUE estimates between northern (southeast Montana) and southern (north Texas) mixed-grass prairies. Effects of varying amounts and temporal distribution of precipitation on PUE were examined at the Montana site, using a rainout shelter and irrigation. Results show that 1) ANPP was 21% less in Montana than Texas (188 g ? m 22 vs. 237 g ? m 22 ); 2) plant function type (PFT) composition varied between the two study locations, with cool-season perennial grasses (CSPG) dominating in Montana (52%) and warm-season perennial grasses (WSPG) dominating in Texas (47%); 3) production dynamics varied between the two sites with 90% of ANPP completed by 1 July in Montana as compared to 31 August in Texas; 4) average PUE estimates were greater in Montana (0.56 g dry matter ? m 22 ? mm 21 of precipitation) than Texas (0.40 g ? m 22 ? mm 21 ); and 5) contributions to PUE estimates varied among PFT and location, with CSPG estimates being greater in Montana than Texas (52% vs. 31%) and WSPG estimates being greater in Texas than Montana (47% vs. 27%). Seasonal droughts and supplemental irrigations at the Montana site substantially altered ANPP, PFT biomass composition, and PUE. Results show PUE was responsive to PFT composition relative to amount and seasonal distribution of precipitation. Therefore, one should expect changes in ANPP and PUE to occur with shifts in precipitation patterns until PFT composition becomes adjusted to the regime.
Effects of temperature and anoxia on regional cerebral blood flow in turtles.

Regional cerebral blood flow (CBF) was measured in isoflurane-anesthetized turtles (Pseudemys scripta) by the hydrogen clearance method. Teflon-coated platinum electrodes (25 microns) were implanted in the olfactory bulbs, midcerebral cortex and cerebellum in eight adult turtles. The electrodes were voltage clamped at +0.30 V relative to a Ag-AgCl electrode implanted in the dorsal neck muscles. Washout kinetics of H2 gas administered via controlled ventilation was used to calculate local blood flow for electrodes exhibiting monoexponential washout kinetics of hydrogen (92 of 104 determinations). Data were obtained in animals with body temperatures of 15, 25, and 35 degrees C under normocapnic conditions during ventilation with 21% O2 and during ventilation with 100% N2. During normoxia, mean blood flows were 1.9 +/- 0.8, 5.0 +/- 1.9, and 6.1 +/- 1.3 (+/- SD) ml.100 g-1.min-1 at 15, 25, and 35 degrees C, respectively. There were no differences between CBF values in the different brain regions. During 1-3 h of anoxia, CBF was 3.0 +/- 2.1, 7.0 +/- 3.7, and 6.6 +/- 2.9 ml.100 g-1.min-1 at 15, 25, and 35 degrees C, respectively (normoxia-anoxia difference not statistically different). Hypercarbia (ventilation with 10-20% CO2 in air or N2), or the transition from anoxia to normoxia, increased CBF up to 80% at each of these temperatures. Maintenance of CBF during anoxia likely contributes to the anoxia tolerance of the turtle brain.
Fetal meconium peritonitis in single and twin pregnancy: Two cases report

We present two cases of fetal meconium peritonitis in a single and twin pregnancy, respectively. The first case diagnosis was made at 30 weeks and was confirmed after delivery of the twins by cesarean section at 37 weeks. The second case diagnosis was made at 31 week and was confirmed at 37 weeks. Meconium peritonitis is a rare prenatal complication that results from intrauterine perforation of small bowel with spillage of sterile meconium into peritoneal cavity. We now report two cases of meconium peritonitis diagnosed at 30 and 31 weeks gestation.
Wideband-Tunable Optical Resonators on Double-Layer SOI Platforms using Electrostatic Actuation

We present mechanically-tunable microdisk resonators using electrostatic actuation in double-layer-SOI material platform. The possibility of achieving resonance wavelength shifts as-high-as 5.5 nm/volt and 1.35 nm/nm over a wavelength tuning range of 35 nm is demonstrated.
Wave Attenuation and Interactions in a Pulsed Detonation Combustor-Turbine Hybrid System

A large-scale, multi-tube pulsed detonation combustor with eight tubes arranged in a can-annular configuration was integrated with a single-stage axial turbine nominally rated for 8 lbm/s, 25000 RPM and 1000 hp. This PDC-turbine system was operated using ethyleneair mixtures with each tube firing at 20 Hz. High frequency pressure transducers were installed throughout the flow path to investigate the wave interactions and attenuation across the turbine. The multi-tube PDC was operated at a range of conditions with three firing patterns: a single tube firing, all tubes simultaneous and all tubes sequential. Analysis of these data reveal wave interactions in the transition plenum between the PDC exit and turbine inlet plane can affect the optimum operation of the multi-tube PDC. In addition, there is over 20 dB attenuation of the peak pressure pulse and 10 dB attenuation of the broadband acoustic noise through the single-stage, axial flow turbine.
Prevention of rabies in man.

When an animal bites a human being, the animal should be identified, apprehended, and its clinical condition appraised immediately and for 10 days after the bite, Immediate treatment of the bite wound includes free bleeding without trauma, thorough mechanical cleansing, and local infiltration of rabies antiserum. Specific prophylaxis is determined by the site and severity of the bite by a rabid animal.
Two nuclear mutations disrupt distinct pathways for targeting proteins to the chloroplast thylakoid.

Abstract Results of in vitro experiments have suggested the existence of at least three pathways by which nuclear-encoded proteins are targeted to the chloroplast thylakoid membrane. However, few components of the targeting machinery have been identified and the relationship between the three pathways is not clear. To investigate mechanisms underlying thylakoid protein targeting, we identified nuclear mutations in maize that cause targeting defects. We found two mutations, tha1 and hcf106, that disrupt the localization of different sets of proteins to the thylakoid lumen. The tha1 mutation interferes with the targeting of one chloroplast-encoded protein, cytochrome f, and three nuclear-encoded proteins, plastocyanin, the psaF gene product and the 33 kDa subunit of the oxygen-evolving complex. The hcf106 mutation interferes with the targeting of the 16 and 23 kDa subunits of the oxygen-evolving complex. The tha1 and hcf106 phenotypes provide the first in vivo evidence supporting the existence of two distinct thylakoid-targeting pathways. Their phenotypes also provide evidence that one chloroplast-encoded protein, cytochrome f, engages the 'tha1' pathway, indicating that nuclear- and chloroplast-encoded proteins can be targeted via common machinery.
Paleoanthropology: Pliocene and Pleistocene human evolution

Modern paleoanthropology is broadly interdisciplinary, integrating the results of studies in hominid (or more generally primate) paleontology, morphology and systematics with archeology, stratigraphy, chronometry, general paleontology, taphonomy and ecology, among other fields. (I here employ the term “hominid” to include all advanced hominoids of Miocene to Pleistocene age, following Delson and Andrews, 1975; similarly “hominine” (or “human”) refers to members of the subfamily Homininae of this usage, especially Australopithecus and Homo. Many other authors restrict hominine/human to Homo alone, employing hominid where I use hominine.) This integrative approach has been both spectacular and successful in eastern Africa (see Laporte 1980), due to the influence of F. C. Howell, the Leakeys and their colleagues, but it has also been responsible for recent advances in other temporal and spatial intervals in human evolution. In this review, I will concentrate on the morpho-evolutionary aspects of recent paleoanthropological studies, indicating major sources and new developments. Most fossils not otherwise referenced are discussed, albeit often with a different interpretation, in Wolpoff's (1980a) text.
Effects of 0.2% brimonidine and 0.2% brimonidine–0.5% timolol on intraocular pressure and pupil size in normal equine eyes

SummaryBackground Brimonidine is an alpha 2-adrenergic agonist that decreases aqueous humor production and may increase uveoscleral outflow. It has not been evaluated in normal or glaucomatous equine eyes. Objectives To evaluate the IOP-lowering efficacy and safety of brimonidine, alone and in conjunction with timolol, as a treatment for equine glaucoma by comparing IOP in normal equine eyes treated with brimonidine and brimonidine-timolol to control eyes. Study design A balanced crossover design with 16 horses receiving one of two treatments, brimonidine and brimonidine-timolol, during each of two 10-day study phases, was used. Four horses were randomly assigned to each of four combinations of treated eye (right or left) and drug order within the two 10-day study phases (brimonidine first or brimonidine-timolol first). Methods Pupil size and conjunctival hyperemia were assessed twice daily and IOP was measured three times daily using rebound tonometry in both eyes of 16 normal horses throughout two 10-day study periods (brimonidine and brimonidine-timolol) followed by an 18-day washout period. One eye of each horse was treated with brimonidine or brimonidine-timolol while the opposite eye was treated with balanced salt solution. Results There were no adverse effects and no significant changes in pupil size in normal equine eyes treated with brimonidine or brimonidine-timolol. Average IOP in normal equine eyes treated with brimonidine (25.6 mm Hg) was statistically higher than in eyes treated with brimonidine-timolol (24.6 mm Hg) or balanced salt solution (24.5 mm Hg) however IOP differences were 1 mm Hg or less and thus not clinically important. Main limitations Horses with normal eyes may not be as sensitive to IOP-lowering effects of treatment as horses with glaucoma. Conclusions Brimonidine and briminonidine-timolol are well tolerated in normal horses but do not decrease IOP. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Transnational migrants as consumer advocates for remittance reform

This extended case study uses a ‘conscientious consumption’ framework and a Polanyian interpretation of transnational advocacy to examine a migrant movement’s efforts to establish pricing fairness ...
Students and evaluation of web-based misinformation about vaccination: critical reading or passive acceptance of claims?

With the advent of Web 2.0 media, there is a greater prevalence of science misinformation available to the public. This issue is particularly problematic for novices who often believe that science ...
What Have We Learned From Experimental Finance

This paper addresses five questions about how stock market works and what we have learned from experiments in this field. 1, Why do we need even more data on financial market? Don’t we have enough already? 2. How could the data from such small scale simple markets help us gain insights into far more complex investment environments? 3. Is experimental finance a branch or variation of behavioral economics/behavioral finance? 4. What have we learned so far from assets market experiments? 5. What is next?
Ruthenacycles with stereogenic metal centers

Abstract The transmetallation reaction of enantiomerically pure (RC)-{ HgCl[C 10 H 6 CH(Me)N Me2]} with the [(η6-arene)RuCl2]2 dimer, where η6-arene=C6H5-Me (toluene), in CH3CN at ambient temperature forms a mixture of two diastereomeric ruthenacycles [(SRu, RC) – a, major, and (RRu, RC) – a′, minor] of the type {(η6-arene) Ru[C 10 H 6 CH(Me)N Me2](Cl)} (1a,a′) in good chemical and optical yields. The diastereoselectivity of chloride substitution in 1a,a′ by bromide and iodide has been determined by 1H and 13C{1H} NMR spectroscopy and single-crystal X-ray crystallography. The diastereoselectivity of this type of transmetallation reaction varies as a function of both the electronic nature of the (η6-arene) ligand attached to the ruthenium center and the steric nature of the chiral arylamine (de is the diastereomeric excess): [(η6-benzene)Ru(TMNA)Cl] (TMNA=[C10H6CH(Me)NMe2]), 8a,a′, (92% de)>[(η6-benzene)Ru(TMBA)Cl], (TMBA=[C6H4CH(Me)NMe2]), 5a,a′, (90.4% de)>[(η6-toluene)Ru(TMNA)Cl], 1a,a′, (87.5% de)>[(η6-toluene)Ru(TMBA)Cl], 4a,a′, (86.7% de). The diastereoselectivity of the substitution reactions generally increases with increasing steric bulk of the incoming ligand and proceeds with predominant retention of configuration at ruthenium.
Note on a Generalization of Roth’s Theorem

We give a simple proof that for sufficiently large N, every subset of of size[N 2]of size at least δN 2 contains three points of the form (a,b), (a + d, b), (a, b + d).
V(D)J Recombination: Of Mice and Sharks

The adaptive immune system of jawed vertebrates is based on a vast, anticipatory repertoire of specific antigen receptors, immunoglobulins (Ig) in B-lymphocytes and T-cell receptors (TCR) in T-lymphocytes. The Ig and TCRdiversity is generated by a process called V(D)J recombination, which is initiated by the RAG recombinase. Although RAG activity is very well conserved, the regulated accessibility of the antigen receptor genes to RAG has evolved with the species' organizational structure, which differs most significantly between fishes and tetrapods. V(D)J recombination was primarily characterized in developing lymphocytes of mice and human beings and is often described as an ordered, two-stage program. Studies in rabbit, chicken and shark show that this process does not have to be ordered, nor does it need to take place in two stages to generate a diverse repertoire and enable the expression of a single species of antigen receptor per cell, a restriction called allelic exclusion.
Progress in Polarized Ion Source Development

In the fifteen years since the first polarized ion source produced a useable polarized beam,1 these devices have become important research instruments at nuclear physics accelerator installations. The number of polarized sources has grown steadily and their development has been reviewed periodically. At the Karlsruhe conference2 this was done by Fleischmann3 and at the Madison conference2 by Glavish5 and Donnally.6 These and other reviews in the intervening period7,8,10–12,14,15 have outlined the theory and many basic problems of operation for the two main types of polarized ion source, the “atomic beam source” and the “Lamb-shift source.” The underlying physics principles for these two types of sources have not changed much in the last five years, but the hardware is slowly being refined to increase the output beam intensities, to increase the variety of polarized ion species available, to facilitate rapid changes in the beam polarization without altering the focal properties of the beam, and to adapt these ion sources to a new family of high-energy accelerators.