cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Rab27a negatively regulates CFTR chloride channel function in colonic epithelia: involvement of the effector proteins in the regulatory mechanism.

Abstract Cystic fibrosis, an autosomal recessive disorder, is caused by the disruption of biosynthesis or function of CFTR. CFTR regulatory mechanisms include channel transport to plasma membrane and protein–protein interactions. Rab proteins are small GTPases involved in vesicle transport, docking, and fusion. The colorectal epithelial HT-29 cells natively express CFTR and respond to cAMP with an increase in CFTR-mediated currents. DPC-inhibited currents could be completely eliminated with CFTR-specific SiRNA. Over-expression of Rab27a inhibited, while isoform specific SiRNA and Rab27a antibody stimulated CFTR-mediated currents in HT-29 cells. CFTR activity is inhibited both by Rab27a (Q78L) (constitutive active GTP-bound form of Rab27a) and Rab27a (T23N) (constitutive negative form that mimics the GDP-bound form). Rab27a mediated effects could be reversed by Rab27a-binding proteins, the synaptotagmin-like protein (SLP-5) and Munc13-4 accessory protein (a putative priming factor for exocytosis). The SLP reversal of Rab27a effect was restricted to C2A/C2B domains while the SHD motif imparted little more inhibition. The CFTR-mediated currents remain unaffected by Rab3 though SLP-5 appears to weakly bind it. The immunoprecipitation experiments suggest protein–protein interactions between Rab27a and CFTR. Rab27a appears to impair CFTR appearance at the cell surface by trapping CFTR in the intracellular compartments. Munc13-4 and SLP-5, on the other hand, limit Rab27a availability to CFTR, thus minimizing its effect on channel function. These observations decisively prove that Rab27a is involved in CFTR channel regulation through protein–protein interactions involving Munc13-4 and SLP-5 effector proteins, and thus could be a potential target for cystic fibrosis therapy.
Point-contact tunneling study of the normal and superconducting states of Tl2Ba2CaCu2Ox

Abstract We report point-contact tunneling into single crystals of Tl 2 Ba 2 CaCu 2 O x . The I ( V ) are quite symmetrical and very reproducible, and exhibit a background conductance at high voltages which changes systematically from increasing with voltage to decreasing with voltage as the junction resistance decreases. We thus confirm previous measurements in Ba x K 1− x BiO 3 and Bi 1.7 Pb 0.3 Sr 2 CaCu 2 O x , that the normal state conductance, in the absence of the usual parabolic tunneling barrier effects, has a peak near zero voltage. We speculate that this could be due to a strongly energy-dependent, normal-state density of states which is peaked at the Fermi level. By fitting to a smeared BCS density of states, we find the energy gap, Δ, is 16–28 meV and 2Δ/ k B T c ∼3.3–5.8, using the onset T c of 112 K.
Is a 3-mm intrafractional margin sufficient for daily image-guided intensity-modulated radiation therapy of prostate cancer?

Purpose To determine whether a 3-mm isotropic target margin adequately covers the prostate and seminal vesicles (SVs) during administration of an intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) treatment fraction, assuming that daily image-guided setup is performed just before each fraction.
First-order modal theories

This paper is part of a general programme of developing and investigating particular first-order modal theories. In the paper, a modal theory of propositions is constructed under the assumption that there are genuinely singular propositions, ie. ones that contain individuals as constituents. Various results on decidability, axiomatizability and definability are established.
Electrochemical Cleaning of Surface-Confined Carbon Contamination in Self-Assembled Monolayers on Polycrystalline Ag and Au

A protocol for electrochemical cleaning of carbon-contaminated alkanethiol SAMs at mechanically polished (MP) Ag surfaces is characterized by surface Raman spectroscopy and electrochemistry. Vibrational information in the ν(C−S), ν(C−C), ν(C−H), and δ(C−H) regions is particularly useful in elucidating the degree of order and amount of contamination in propanethiol, dodecanethiol, and octadecanethiol monolayers before and after negative potential exposure in several aqueous electrolytes. Specifically, Raman spectra indicate that electrochemical cleaning of alkanethiol SAMs at potentials negative of the thiolate reduction removes carbonaceous species and greatly increases the film order near the sulfur headgroup.
Binding, degradation, and utilization of plasma high density and low density lipoproteins for progesterone production in cultured rat luteal cells

These studies were intended to examine the binding and degradation of plasma lipoprotein fractions and the utilization of lipoprotein-bound cholesterol for progesterone production in cultured rat luteal cells. These cells bound [125I]human low density lipoprotein ([125I]iodo-hLDL), [125I]human high density lipoprotein ([125I]iodo-hHDL), and [125I]iodorat HDL ([125I] iodo-rHDL) with high affinity. The equilibrium dissociation constants of the binding of labeled rHDL, hHDL, and hLDL were 90.5, 78.3, and 36.8 μg/ml, respectively. All three lipoproteins were also degraded in a concentration-dependent manner, with apparent Km values of 18.3,17.5, and 22.4 μg/ml for rHDL, hHDL, and hLDL, respectively. The degradation of the lipoproteins was inhibited by lysosomotropic agents, transglutaminase inhibitors, and metabolic inhibitors, suggesting that these lipoproteins undergo internalization and lysosomal degradation. In addition, all three lipoproteins also augmented the hCG-stimulated steroidogenesis. When cells ...
Mechanisms, manifestations, and failures of self-tolerance.

We have developed transgenic (Tg) mice that express the influenza virus A/PR/8/34 hemagglutinin (PR8 HA) as a well-characterized model antigen with which to analyze factors governing tolerance and autoractivity among CD4+ T and B cells. To analyze how the expression of self-antigens in varying amounts and in different cell types and tissues affects these processes, we have used a variety of promoters and enhancers to drive HA expression. By mating these HA Tg mice with Tg mice-expressing HA-specific major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II-restricted T cell receptors (TCRs), we have shown that variations in the expression of the HA in different HA Tg line ages can cause CD4+ T cells with identical specificity for a self-peptide either to be deleted (to varying degrees) or to undergo selection to become CD4+ CD25+ regulatory T cells. In addition, a high intrinsic affinity of the TCR for a self-peptide appears to be required for thymocytes to undergo selection to become CD4+ CD25+ regulatory T cells. We have also shown that separate populations of HA-specific B cells that participate at distinct phases of the immune response to the HA in BALB/c mice differ significantly in their sensitivity to negative selection by the neo-self HA. Together, these studies demonstrate that both the diversity of the CD4+ T cell and B cell responses to the HA and variations in the expression of the HA and HA Tg mice can significantly affect the mechanisms and extent of CD4+ T and B cell tolerance induction.
Oxidation of indolines with Fremy's salt: A mechanistic proposal

Abstract Oxidation of an indoline with Fremy's salt (potassium nitrosodisulfonate) led to the formation of an unstable intermediate which isomerized to the desired 5-hydroxyindole upon standing. This intermediate has been isolated and characterized as an iminoquinone derivative. Identification of this intermediate has allowed us to propose a mechanism for the Fremy's salt mediated oxidation of indolines to 5-hydroxyindoles.
The evolution of drug resistance in clinical isolates of Candida albicans

Candida albicans is both a member of the healthy human microbiome and a major pathogen in immunocompromised individuals. Infections are typically treated with azole inhibitors of ergosterol biosynthesis often leading to drug resistance. Studies in clinical isolates have implicated multiple mechanisms in resistance, but have focused on large-scale aberrations or candidate genes, and do not comprehensively chart the genetic basis of adaptation. Here, we leveraged next-generation sequencing to analyze 43 isolates from 11 oral candidiasis patients. We detected newly selected mutations, including single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), copy-number variations and loss-of-heterozygosity (LOH) events. LOH events were commonly associated with acquired resistance, and SNPs in 240 genes may be related to host adaptation. Conversely, most aneuploidies were transient and did not correlate with drug resistance. Our analysis also shows that isolates also varied in adherence, filamentation, and virulence. Our work reveals new molecular mechanisms underlying the evolution of drug resistance and host adaptation. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.00662.001
Simultaneous speciation of arsenic, selenium, and chromium: species stability, sample preservation, and analysis of ash and soil leachates.

An analytical method using high-performance liquid chromatography separation with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) detection previously developed for the determination of Cr(III) and Cr(VI) has been adapted to allow the determination of As(III), As(V), Se(IV), Se(VI), Cr(III), and Cr(VI) under the same chromatographic conditions. Using this method, all six inorganic species can be determined in less than 3 min. A dynamic reaction cell (DRC)–ICP-MS system was used to detect the species eluted from the chromatographic column in order to reduce interferences. A variety of reaction cell gases and conditions may be utilized with the DRC–ICP-MS, and final selection of conditions is determined by data quality objectives. Results indicated all starting standards, reagents, and sample vials should be thoroughly tested for contamination. Tests on species stability indicated that refrigeration at 10 °C was preferential to freezing for most species, particularly when all species were present, and that sample solutions and extracts should be analyzed as soon as possible to eliminate species instability and interconversion effects. A variety of environmental and geological samples, including waters and deionized water [leachates] and simulated biological leachates from soils and wildfire ashes have been analyzed using this method. Analytical spikes performed on each sample were used to evaluate data quality. Speciation analyses were conducted on deionized water leachates and simulated lung fluid leachates of ash and soils impacted by wildfires. These results show that, for leachates containing high levels of total Cr, the majority of the chromium was present in the hexavalent Cr(VI) form. In general, total and hexavalent chromium levels for samples taken from burned residential areas were higher than those obtained from non-residential forested areas. Arsenic, when found, was generally in the more oxidized As(V) form. Selenium (IV) and (VI) were present, but typically at low levels.
Biased graphs. II.: The three matroids

Abstract A biased graph Ω consists of a graph Γ and a class B of circles (simple, closed paths) in Γ, called balanced circles, such that no theta subgraph contains exactly two balanced circles. The bias matroid G(Ω) is a finitary matroid on the edge set E of Ω whose circuits are the balanced circles and the minimal connected edge sets of cyclomatic number two containing no balanced circle. We prove that these circuits define a matroid and we establish cryptomorphic definitions and other properties. Another finitary matroid on E, the lift matroid L(Ω) , and its one-point extension the complete lift matroid L 0 (Ω) , are obtained from the abstract matroid lift construction applied to the graphic matroid G(Γ) and the class B . The circuits of L(Ω) are the balanced circles and the minimal edge sets of cyclomatic number two (not necessarily connected) containing no balanced circle. We develop cryptomorphisms and other properties of L 0 (Ω) and L(Ω) . There is no completely general construction rule, besides the bias and lift constructions, which assigns to each biased graph a matroid intermediate (in the sense of independent sets) between G and L and which respects subgraphs. G(Ω) has an infinitary analog for infinite graphs generalizing Klee's infinitary bicircular matroid and the Bean-Higgs infinitary graphic matroid. Whether L(Ω) has an infinitary analog is unclear.
Thermoset Epoxy–Clay Nanocomposites: The Dual Role of α,ω-Diamines as Clay Surface Modifiers and Polymer Curing Agents

Diprotonated forms of polyoxypropylene diamines of the type α,ω-[NH3CHCH3CH2(OCH2CHCH3)xNH32+ with x=2.6, 5.6, and 33.1, have been intercalated into montmorillonite and fluorohectorite clays and subsequently evaluated for the formation of glassy epoxy–clay nanocomposites. The intercalated onium ions functioned concomitantly as a clay surface modifier, intragallery polymerization catalyst, and curing agent. Depending on the chain length of the diamine, different orientations of the propylene oxide chains were adopted in the clay galleries, resulting in basal spacings from ∼14 A (lateral monolayer, x=2.6) to ∼45 A (folded structure, x=33.1). The initial clay basal spacings were correlated with the formation of intercalated and exfoliated clay–epoxy nanocomposites with improved mechanical properties and high thermal stabilities. In comparison to clay–monoamine intercalates, the use of diamine intercalates greatly reduced the plasticizing effect of the alkyl chains on the polymer matrix, resulting in improved mechanical properties while at the same time reducing the cost and time needed for nanocomposite fabrication.
Illegal Logging in Common Property Forests

Community-based forestry has the potential to improve forest management in the commons. Unfortunately, the ease with which logging interests are able to ignore community decisions and steal timber remains troubling. This article analyzes how illegal logging is highly erosive to community cohesiveness and institutions in the context of community forestry in Mexico. It analyzes the modus operandi of clandestine logging operations and their complex relationship with common property managers. Resistance and complicity simultaneously manifest themselves in the struggle to protect forest resources. Finally, to bridge scholarship with practice, I propose a framework for diagnosing timber theft in common property forests that may help orient conservation efforts.
THYMUS GLAND FRACTIONATION AND THYMOCYTE LYSIS.

Methods are described for the isolation of two separate fractions from guinea pig thymus gland; i.e., Hassall's corpuscles and stromal segments. Hassall's corpuscles are relatively dense epithelial aggregates sedimentable at low centrifugal acceleration, while the lighter stromal segments remain in the supernatant fluid. Solubilization of the thymocytes, effected by high-speed homogenization in hypertonic glycerol, is unaccompanied by visible gelation or nuclear residue. Glycerol-sensitivity resembles radiation-sensitivity in many respects.
Beyond communicative language teaching: What's ahead?

The emergence of English as a global language, technological innovation and a growing need for learner autonomy are changing the contexts of language learning rapidly and profoundly. Recognition of the current complexity and diversity of these contexts has led some to suggest that we have moved ‘beyond methods’ to a postmethod condition (Kumaravadivelu, 2002), that the quest for a better method has been or should be abandoned in favor of the identification of practices or strategies of teaching designed to reflect local needs and experiences. This paper considers the professional consequences of the challenges facing the language teaching profession in the years ahead. How will the needs and goals of the next generation of learners be met? Will applied linguists continue to assert an expert or authority status in the determination of practice? Or will a postmethod era lead to the recognition of teachers as the professional decision-makers and theory builders that they in fact could be? # 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved. 1. A glance at history Concerned with the exploration of the functions of language as a primary means of human social interaction, linguistic pragmatics offers many promising, practice oriented linguistic fields of inquiry to engage contemporary scholars. Among them, none currently enjoys more lively debate than the field of language pedagogy. Language teachers have been with us for as long as there have been languages. And their engagement with language learners constitutes a fascinating arena for the study of social interaction. This paper takes a brief historical look at the classroom teaching of second or ‘foreign’ language teaching as a backdrop to a consideration of the current phenomenon of what has come to be known as communicative language teaching (CLT). Just what is CLT? Is it a method of teaching? Does it have characteristics that are universally understood and implemented? If so, what are they? Most important, does CLT signal a meaningful and lasting reorientation of
The evolution of matrilineal kinship organization

Matrilineal kinship organization is a human social system that emphasizes interactions between matrilineal kin, i.e. individuals related only through females. The ‘matrilineal puzzle’ refers to the potential for tension characteristic of this social system, owing to the conflict between the interests and responsibilities of men in their roles as brother/uncle versus husband/father. From an evolutionary perspective, matrilineal kinship organization is puzzling when it diverts investment of resources from the individuals who provide the potentially highest reproductive returns. I use a game-theoretic framework to investigate a particular form of matrilineal inheritance—the transfer of property from a maternal uncle to a sororal nephew. The analysis reveals two mechanisms that may make this strategy a stable evolutionary outcome. First, a polygynous male has multiple wives, and hence multiple brothers-in-law; with matrilineal inheritance, each additional brother-in-law may transfer resources to the male's wife's offspring, thus potentially contributing to the male's inclusive fitness. Second, the husband of a polyandrous female is effectively ‘sharing’ paternity with other men; depending on the number of husbands, he may be better off investing in his sister's offspring. I conclude by discussing how these results address the challenges posed by the occurrence of matrilineal kinship organization.
Haemangiosarcoma of the urinary bladder in a dog

Haemangiosarcoma of the urinary bladder is reported in a dog. The bladder mass was detected incidentally during physical examination. Partial cystectomy with unilateral ureteroneocys-tostomy were performed to remove the tumour en bloc. Necrosis of the urinary bladder was diagnosed 10 days postoperatively and the dog was euthanased.
Case reports of patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia and related psychotic disorders intolerant to clozapine responding to high doses of quetiapine.

Treatment-resistant schizophrenia and related psychotic disorders remain a major therapeutic challenge. Clozapine has undoubtedly been the gold standard treatment for this patient group. However, a significant proportion of patients develop intolerance to clozapine. There is limited available evidence to support the use of alternative treatment strategies. In this case report we present two diagnostically different cases, where stabilization on clozapine was followed by discontinuation due to the development of neutropenia. These cases were subsequently managed with high doses of quetiapine, which produced a satisfactory clinical response.
Superoxide Modulates the Oxidation and Nitrosation of Thiols by Nitric Oxide-derived Reactive Intermediates CHEMICAL ASPECTS INVOLVED IN THE BALANCE BETWEEN OXIDATIVE AND NITROSATIVE STRESS

Thiol-containing proteins are key to numerous cellular processes, and their functions can be modified by thiol nitrosation or oxidation. Nitrosation reactions are quenched by O-2, while the oxidation chemistry mediated by peroxynitrite is quenched by excess flux of either NO or O-2. A solution of glutathione (GSH), a model thiol-containing tripeptide, exclusively yielded S-nitrosoglutathione when exposed to the NO donor, Et2NN(O)NONa. However, when xanthine oxidase was added to the same mixture, the yield of S-nitrosoglutathione dramatically decreased as the activity of xanthine oxidase increased, such that there was a 95% reduction in nitrosation when the fluxes of NO and O-2 were nearly equivalent. The presence of superoxide dismutase reversed O-2-mediated inhibition, while catalase had no effect. Increasing the flux of O-2 yielded oxidized glutathione (GSSG), peaking when the flux of NO and O-2 were approximately equivalent. The results suggest that oxidation and nitrosation of thiols by superoxide and NO are determined by their relative fluxes and may have physiological significance.
Genetic Diversity among Offspring from Archived Salmonella enterica ssp. enterica Serovar Typhimurium (Demerec Collection): In Search of Survival Strategies

Extensive phenotypic and genomic diversity was detected among offspring of Salmonella enterica ssp. enterica serovar Typhimurium LT2 (nonmutator) and LT7 (mutator, mutL) strains after decades of storage in sealed nutrient agar stabs. In addition to numerous losses in carbon and nitrogen metabolism, the acquired new metabolites indicated that alternate pathways were established. Particularly striking was the array of phage types when this phenotype was expected to be a stable feature. Evidence is presented regarding the role of mutator gene mutL− in the establishment of diversity as well as the ability of cells to return to mutL+ genetic stabilization. Mutations included deletions, duplications, frameshifts, inversions and transpositions. In competition tests, survivors were more fit than were wild type. Because survival strategies continue to intrigue microbiologists, observations are compared with those of others who have addressed related questions. A brief genealogy of the archived strains is also reco...
Fault Tolerant Memories Based on Expander Graphs

In this paper we consider memories built from components subject to transient faults. We propose a fault-tolerant memory architecture based on LDPC codes and show the existence of memories which can tolerate constant fraction of failures in all the components. Our proof relies on the expansion property of the underlying Tanner graph of the code. We illustrate our results with specific numerical examples.
Example-Driven Procedural Urban Roads

Synthesizing and exploring large-scale realistic urban road networks is beneficial to 3D content creation, traffic animation and urban planning. In this paper, we present an interactive tool that allows untrained users to design roads with complex realistic details and styles. Roads are generated by growing a geometric graph. During a sketching phase, the user specifies the target area and the examples. During a growing phase, two types of growth are effectively applied to generate roads in the target area; example-based growth uses patches extracted from the source example to generate roads that preserve some interesting structures in the example road networks; procedural-based growth uses the statistical information of the source example while effectively adapting the roads to the underlying terrain and the already generated roads. User-specified warping, blending and interpolation operations are used at will to produce new road network designs that are inspired by the examples. Finally, our method computes city blocks, individual parcels and plausible building and tree geometries. We have used our approach to create road networks covering up to 200 km2 and containing over 3500 km of roads.
Business, Sex, and Ethics in The Wayward Bus

Most critics consider The Wayward Bus , published in 1947, an inferior book, evidence of Steinbecks alleged artistic decline after his great works of the 1930s. Warren French, for example, claims that the book is "loaded with hokey symbolism" and is "disappointingly banal."1 Jackson Benson calls the characters "among [Steinbecks] least lifelike and convincing."2 Roy Simmonds sums up the scholarly criticism by concluding that The Wayward Bus is a book of "stereotyped characters and . . . worn-out themes that completely fail to address the problems and preoccupations of the times."3 Whatever the defects of The Wayward Bus , it deserves a more careful reading than it usually receives. In fact, Simmonds is wrong to criticize the book for not addressing the problems of postwar America. Peter Lisca is closer to the mark when he notes that The Wayward Bus (along with Cannery Row and The Pearl) represents "an examination of the underlying assumptions of modern civilization."4 Howard Levant makes a similar point when he calls the novel "a trenchant, accurate portrayal of the darker side of the American dream."5
Response to Hypertension Guidelines: Political Correctness Trumping Expertise?

We appreciate Dr Messerli’s1 attention to the American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s joint Science Advisory pertaining to an effective approach to high blood pressure control.2 This scientific advisory focuses on the use of science-based algorithms to increase blood pressure control in patients with hypertension in the healthcare setting and is meant to disseminate the demonstrated success of some programs in implementing current hypertension guidelines. The American Heart Association, American College of Cardiology, and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention felt it was urgent to issue this joint advisory because hypertension, an …
Junction kinematics between proximal mobile and distal fused lumbar segments: biomechanical analysis of pedicle and hook constructs.

Abstract Background context Biomechanical studies have demonstrated increased motion in motion segments adjacent to instrumentation or arthrodesis. The effects of different configurations of hook and pedicle screw instrumentation on the biomechanical behaviors of adjacent segments have not been well documented. Purpose To compare the effect of three different fusion constructs on adjacent segment motion proximal to lumbar arthrodesis. Methods Seven human cadaver lumbar spines were tested in the following conditions: 1) intact; 2) L4–L5-simulated circumferential fusion (CF); 3) L4–L5-simulated fusion extended to L3 with pedicle screws; and 4) L4–L5-simulated fusion extended to L3 with sublaminar hooks. Rotation data at L2–L3, L3–L4, and L4–L5 were analyzed using both load limit control (±7.5 N·m) and displacement limit control (truncated to the greatest common angular motion of the segments for each specimen). Results Both the L3–L4 and L2–L3 motion segments above the L4–L5-simulated CF had significantly increased motion in all loading planes compared with the intact spine, but no significant differences were found between L3–L4 and L2–L3 motion. When the L3–L4 segment was stabilized with pedicle screws, its motion was significantly smaller in flexion, lateral bending, and axial rotation than when stabilized with sublaminar hooks. At the same time, L2–L3 motion was significantly larger in flexion, lateral bending, and axial rotation in the pedicle screw model compared with the sublaminar hook construct. Conclusions The use of sublaminar hooks to stabilize the motion segment above a circumferential lumbar fusion reduced motion at the next cephalad segment compared with a similar construct using pedicle screws. The semiconstrained hook enhancement may be considered if a patient is at a risk of adjacent segment disorders.
Three professors’ teaching philosophy of education: Strategies and considerations for undergraduate courses

This study investigated the impact of teaching about philosophical approaches on preservice teachers' coherence-non-coherence perspectives. Participants were 56 preservice teachers from two research universities in two states, and three professors at these universities. Data were collected using (a) a 105-item Philosophy of Education Scale (POES) (Pryor, 2004b), and (b) professor and student self-reflections. A correlational matrix was used to determine the relationship among five philosophical orientations and seven dimensions of educational practice. Results indicate that students are more consistent in their ratings of approaches they are less likely to adopt in their teaching than those they are more likely to use. Implications include suggestions for enhancing foundations courses and the use of the POES as a reflective tool.
Fast computation for genome-wide association studies using boosted one-step statistics

Motivation: Statistical analyses of genome-wide association studies (GWAS) require fitting large numbers of very similar regression models, each with low statistical power. Taking advantage of repeated observations or correlated phenotypes can increase this statistical power, but fitting the more complicated models required can make computation impractical. Results: In this article, we present simple methods that capitalize on the structure inherent in GWAS studies to dramatically speed up computation for a wide variety of problems, with a special focus on methods for correlated phenotypes. Availability: The R package ‘boss’ is available on the Comprehensive R Archive Network (CRAN) at http://cran.r-project.org/web/packages/boss/ Contact: voorma@u.washington.edu Supplementary information:Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Surface contractile activity associated with isolated asters in cylindrical sand dollar eggs

The purpose of this investigation was to explore the capacity of isolated asters of the mitotic apparatus of elicit contractile activity in adjacent cell surface. When a fertilized Echinarachnius parma egg with an intact mitotic apparatus was confined in an 82-μm-i.d. silicone rubber capillary, the furrow developed at the midpoint between the asters. The mitotic apparatus could be broken by inserting and ejecting the egg from the capillary. The asters of a broken mitotic apparatus were usually abnormally far apart. When asters were as far as 68 μm apart, furrowing occurred; when the intervening distance was greater, there was no furrowing. When the asters were too far apart to establish a furrow between them, constrictions appeared adjacent to one of the asters. The constrictions could shift or could cut through the asters that appeared to elicit them. Cylindrical cells in 0.015 M ethyl urethane formed furrows when the mitotic apparatus was intact but formed neither furrows nor astral constrictions when the asters were far apart. Astral constrictions did not form in the presence of an active furrow. They were frequently temporary and they appeared to be slower and less acute than normal furrows. Single asters remaining after half of the amphiaster was removed had the same effect as widely separated asters. The form of the constriction was related to the position of the aster in the cylinder. When the aster was centered, the constriction resembled a furrow; but when it was near one of the poles, the adjacent surface pulled away from the capillary wall and the radius of curvature at the pole decreased. When initially distant asters were pushed together, a furrow formed between them. These results contribute to a better understanding of the interaction between the mitotic apparatus and the egg surface and the formation of the cleavage mechanism.
Yellowstone: A continental midplate (hot spot) swell

The Yellowstone hot spot has been identified mainly by its track of age-progressive volcanics; many smaller scale tectonic features serve to hide the long-wavelength hot spot-related swell. By employing averaging and filtering techniques, we are able to identify a swell in both the gravity and topography and use them to constrain the apparent depth of compensation of the Yellowstone hot spot at 70±10 km. This value is comparable to the deepest compensation depths for swells on old oceanic lithosphere. A compensation depth within the mid- to lower lithosphere combined with the only 15 m.y. known duration of the hot spot suggests either dynamic thinning of the thermal plate or compensation by upwelling in a low-viscosity asthenosphere, with some combination of the two explanations being consistent with seismic tomography results. Thus in many ways the Yellowstone hot spot appears quite similar to the oceanic analogues.
Other Emerging Leaders

Many other scientists committed a major part of their work to the study and understanding of macromolecules. In this chapter, brief surveys of these emerging leaders are given.
Measurement of Mass Transfer to Agglomerate Aerosols

The mass transfer to agglomerate titanium dioxide aerosols produced in a thermal reactor was measured and compared to the mass transfer for spheres of the same mobility. The material transferred to the particles was ultrafine radioactive lead clusters produced via the decay chain of ^(227)Ac. The lead attachment rate was measured with an epiphaniometer, a device that mixes a fixed concentration of radioactive lead atoms with the sample for a period of several minutes and then measures the quantity of lead attached to the particles. In the free-molecular regime, where the particle diameter is small compared with the mean free path of the gas and the diffusing species, previous studies have shown by theory and experiment that the mass transfer to an aerosol is inversely proportional to the particle mobility. This study showed that this is also true for particles in the transition regime, where the particle diameter is comparable to the mean free path. Further, the mass transfer rate is shown to be independent of particle shape for particles of the same mobility, at least when the mean free paths of the gas and the diffusing species are comparable.
Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of a Risk-Adapted Algorithm of Plerixafor Use for Autologous Peripheral Blood Stem Cell Mobilization

Abstract Historically, up to 30% of patients were unable to collect adequate numbers of peripheral blood stem cells (PBSCs) for autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT). Plerixafor in combination with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) has shown superior results in mobilizing peripheral blood (PB) CD34+ cells in comparison to G-CSF alone, but its high cost limits general use. We developed and evaluated risk-adapted algorithms for optimal utilization of plerixafor. In plerixafor-1, PBSC mobilization was commenced with G-CSF alone, and if PB CD34 on day 4 or day 5 was
Work in progress - motivating students for software engineering

In basic Computer Science courses, students learn to program small programs with pre-defined programming structures, by themselves. Since software engineering courses teach students to schedule, design, code, and test larger projects in groups, a paradigm shift is required in order for the students to even understand the need for such topics as UML and project management. This paper discusses how to mentally prepare students for such a change, by establishing values, and using reflection, integrity, and process improvement
Effects of Triglyceride Molecular Structure on Optimum Formulation of Surfactant-Oil-Water Systems

The effects of triglyceride molecular structure on the formulation of surfactant-oil-water systems were evaluated by comparing the optimum salinity and the dynamic interfacial tensions. The systems contained an anionic extended surfactant and triglyceride oils with different chain lengths and degrees of unsaturation. The results show that with an increasing degree of oil unsaturation (more double bonds), surfactant interactions with the triglycerides become weaker, thus requiring higher optimum salinity and resulting in higher interfacial tension values. Effects of ester groups and chain length of triglycerides are also discussed and the EACN of the triglycerides and vegetable oils studied are reported.
The immunoglobulin superfamily member Hbs functions redundantly with Sns in interactions between founder and fusion-competent myoblasts

The body wall muscle of a Drosophila larva is generated by fusion between founder cells and fusion-competent myoblasts (FCMs). Initially, a founder cell recognizes and fuses with one or two FCMs to form a muscle precursor, then the developing syncitia fuses with additional FCMs to form a muscle fiber. These interactions require members of the immunoglobulin superfamily (IgSF), with Kin-of-IrreC (Kirre) and Roughest (Rst) functioning redundantly in the founder cell and Sticks-and-stones (Sns) serving as their ligand in the FCMs. Previous studies have not resolved the role of Hibris (Hbs), a paralog of Sns, suggesting that it functions as a positive regulator of myoblast fusion and as a negative regulator that antagonizes the activity of Sns. The results herein resolve this issue, demonstrating that sns and hbs function redundantly in the formation of several muscle precursors, and that loss of one copy of sns enhances the myoblast fusion phenotype of hbs mutants. We further show that excess Hbs rescues some fusion in sns mutant embryos beyond precursor formation, consistent with its ability to drive myoblast fusion, but show using chimeric molecules that Hbs functions less efficiently than Sns. In conjunction with a physical association between Hbs and SNS in cis, these data account for the previously observed UAS-hbs overexpression phenotypes. Lastly, we demonstrate that either an Hbs or Sns cytodomain is essential for muscle precursor formation, and signaling from IgSF members found exclusively in the founder cells is not sufficient to direct precursor formation.
Pertussis immunity and epidemiology: mode and duration of vaccine-induced immunity

The resurgence of pertussis in some countries that maintain high vaccination coverage has drawn attention to gaps in our understanding of the epidemiological effects of pertussis vaccines. In particular, major questions surround the nature, degree and durability of vaccine protection. To address these questions, we used mechanistic transmission models to examine regional time series incidence data from Italy in the period immediately following the introduction of acellular pertussis (aP) vaccine. Our results concur with recent animal-challenge experiments wherein infections in aP-vaccinated individuals proved as transmissible as those in naive individuals but much less symptomatic. On the other hand, the data provide evidence for vaccine-driven reduction in susceptibility, which we quantify via a synthetic measure of vaccine impact. As to the precise nature of vaccine failure, the data do not allow us to distinguish between leakiness and waning of vaccine immunity, or some combination of these. Across the range of well-supported models, the nature and duration of vaccine protection, the age profile of incidence and the range of projected epidemiological futures differ substantially, underscoring the importance of the remaining unknowns. We identify key data gaps: sources of data that can supply the information needed to eliminate these remaining uncertainties.
Communicating overshoot and collapse: based on a review of Richard A. Slaughter's The Biggest Wake‐up Call in History

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to look at the communications strategy of the wake up call suggested by Slaughter and to explore alternatives and other perspectives on its transmissions and receptions.Design/methodology/approach – This review uses a topical literature survey and synthesis method to critique conventional vs integral‐type communications strategies and suggests alternatives.Findings – Communications are tricky. The alignment of the sender and receiver are crucial and can be improved or degraded depending on the contextual framework of each, as well as the perceived agency and interaction of the sender/receiver actors.Research limitations/implications – This work was accomplished from the single viewpoint of the author, with literature references and a US‐centric, western bias.Practical implications – The discussion about the variety of communication stratagem from the perspective of the receiver and, the context of the message, as well as the motivation of the sender may provoke chang...
Sample complexity and performance bounds for non-parametric approximate linear programming

One of the most difficult tasks in value function approximation for Markov Decision Processes is finding an approximation architecture that is expressive enough to capture the important structure in the value function, while at the same time not overfitting the training samples. Recent results in nonparametric aproximate linear programming (NP-ALP), have demonstrated that this can be done effectively using nothing more than a smoothness assumption on the value function. In this paper we extend these results to the case where samples come from real world transitions instead of the full Bellman equation, adding robustness to noise. In addition, we provide the first max-norm, finite sample performance guarantees for any form of ALP. NP-ALP is amenable to problems with large (multidimensional) or even infinite (continuous) action spaces, and does not require a model to select actions using the resulting approximate solution.
After the Deluge: Health Reform Without an Individual Mandate

Two federal judges now tell us that the federal health law's individual mandate is unconstitutional. Three others disagree, and soon we will start to hear from appellate courts. But what if we put the legal arguments aside for the moment and focus on the real question: what happens to health reform if the individual mandate is ultimately struck down?
Fabrication of high-quality nanobeam photonic crystal cavities in 4H silicon carbide with embedded color centers

A wide band-gap semiconductor with a long history of growth and device fabrication, silicon carbide (SiC) has attracted recent attention for hosting several defects with properties similar to the nitrogen vacancy center in diamond. In the 4H polytype, these include the silicon vacancy center and the neutral divacancy, which have zero phonon lines (ZPL) in the near-IR and may be useful for quantum information and nanoscale sensing. For many such applications, it is critical to increase the defect emission into the ZPL by coupling the emission to an optical cavity. Accordingly, we have pursued the fabrication of high quality 1D nanobeam photonic crystal cavities (PCCs) in 4H-SiC, using homoepitaxially grown material and a photoelectrochemical etch to provide optical isolation. These PCCs are distinctive in their high theoretical quality factors (Q > 106) and low modal volumes (V < 0.5 (λ/n)3). Here, we present arrays of nanobeam PCCs with varied lattice constant containing embedded silicon vacancy defects generated by electron irradiation, to assess its viability as a method for defect creation. The lattice constant variation allows us to create devices with modes spanning the entire range of the silicon vacancy emission. We accordingly demonstrate nanobeam PCCs with resonant modes near both ZPLs of the silicon vacancy defect. Moreover, we measure devices with the highest Q cavity modes coupled to point defect emission in SiC yet reported, providing evidence that electron irradiation can be used to generate point defects while maintaining high quality optical devices.
Effect of Host Plant on Cannibalism Rates by Fall Armyworm (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) Larvae

Environ. Entomol. 16: 672-675 (1987) ABSTRACT l'he falI armyworm, Spodoptera jruglperda (J. E. Smith), a polyphagous pest of grasses and legumes, showed higher rates of cannibalism when feeding on red kidney bean seedlings than on corn seedlings. These differences are related to behavioral preferences. In choice tests, the larvae showed a strong preference for corn. To see if these differences in cannibalism rates could be attributed to host chemistry alone, these tests were repeated using detached corn and bean leaf disks. No differences in cannibalism rates were observed under these conditions, although cannibalism on corn was higher than in earlier experiments. In no-choice tests, the efficiency of conversion of ingested food (Eel) was higher on corn seedling foliage than on bean seedling foliage. The Eel of cannibalizing larvae that were limited to other larvae as a food source was equivalent to that on corn. Larvae were able to offset these differences in food quality to some degree by increasing relative consumption rates on beans. The relative growth rate was highest on corn, second highest on other larvae, and lowest on beans. These data provide the first nutritional indices for a normalIy herbivorous species on a carnivorous diet, and so are useful for ecological studies of between-species comparisons relating growth to food-source differences.
A Theory Of Government “Red Tape”

Despite the general recognition of the importance of "red tape" on organizations' behaviors and impacts, theory remains poorly developed. The purpose of this article is to develop a theory of the origins of red tape and then to apply the theory to the question "Why do government organizations have more red tape?" The perspective presented assumes that red tape is best viewed as pathological, whereas that formalization concepts are best viewed as neutral attributes of organizations. The term "rule density" is introduced to describe the extensiveness of rules and regulations as related to total organization resources. The theory makes a distinction between rules that are at their origin dysfunctional (rule-inception red tape) and rules that initially served a useful function but transformed into red tape (rule-evolved red tape). Specific causes of each type red tape are identified. A distinction is made regarding the internal vs. external production and impact of red tape and a typology is developed which is used in hypotheses about red tape. Finally, the question of govern- ment red tape is considered. A model of the relationship between external control and red tape is presented. The model implies that most factors leading to red tape are not an inherent function of government. However, two inherent factors of government are cited, each of which gives rise to red tape.
Analysis on Disinfection Effect Surveillance in Medical Institutions, Mashan County,2010-2012

Objective To know the efficacy of disinfection and sterilization in medical institutions of Mashan county,so as to provide the basis for the prevention and control of hospital infection. Methods Analysis was made on the disinfection effect surveillance data in township and county medical institutions,Mashan county,2010-2012. Results During 2010-2012,a total of 765 monitoring objects were tested,eligible,703,the average qualified rate was 91.90%.The qualified rate,2010-2012,was 87.74%,92.67%,and 96.86%(P 0.01);The qualified rate in county and township levels medical institutions was 97.83%and 87.56%,(P 0.01).Indoor air was 95%,The object surface was 97.30%,hands of medical staff were 92.21%,Disinfectants in use were 98.94%,Sterilization articles were 70.71%,instrument soaking liquid was 72%. Conclusion The overall disinfection quality in medical institutions is good in Mashan county,while the qualified rate of the sterilized articles and sterile equipment preservation solution is low.
Electromyographic Studies of Motor Control in Humans

Electromyography and electroneurography have proved to be useful in investigation and understanding of a variety of neurologic disorders. In most laboratories, however, these electrodiagnostic techniques have been used to help in the diagnosis of diseases that affect the peripheral nerves, neuromuscular junctions, or skeletal muscle fibers. Although major advances in electronic and computer technology have made it possible to study, quantitate, and document reflex activity in intact human subjects, most neurologists still rely on gross clinical observations and most electromyographers continue to use conventional techniques of EMG and nerve conduction studies to differentiate “myopathy” from “neuropathy.” This article is a review of some of the electromyographic techniques that have been used in the authors’ laboratory for the study of normal and abnormal motor control in man and the treatment of patients with disorders of motor control.