cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Independent modulation of Arabidopsis thaliana polyubiquitin mRNAs in different organs and in response to environmental changes

The highly conserved protein ubiquitin is encoded by five polyubiquitin genes in Arabidopsis thaliana ecotype Columbia that have been divided into two subtypes, the UBQ3/UBQ4 subtype and the UBQ10/UBQ11/UBQ14 subtype. Northern analysis using gene-specific oligonucleotides as hybridization probes and enzyme activity measurements from transgenic plants expressing β-glucuronidase (GUS) under the control of individual polyubiquitin 5′ flanking regions were used to determine the developmental and environmental regulation of polyubiquitin transcription and mRNA accumulation. Polyubiquitin mRNA levels within and between subtypes were independently modulated. UBQ3 mRNA levels were three-fold higher than UBQ4 mRNA levels in vegetative organs, but only two-thirds of the UBQ4 mRNA levels in flowers. UBQ3 mRNA was modulated by dark/light treatments, while mRNAs from UBQ4 and all members of the other subtype were unaffected. Similarly, within the UBQ10/UBQ11/UBQ14 subtype, UBQ11/UBQ14 mRNAs were modulated differently in seedlings after a two-hour heatshock treatment. Among all the polyubiquitin genes, UBQ10 mRNA level was the most constant in all organs and environmental conditions examined. Transgenic plants transformed with a UBQ10 5′ flanking region::GUS gene contained higher levels of GUS activity than transgenic plants expressing GUS under the control of UBQ3 5′ flanking regions. In conclusion, the relative abundance of different Arabidopsis polyubiquitin mRNAs, even those produced from highly similar genes within a subtype, appears to be modulated independently in response to developmental and environmental cues.
DNA barcoding to improve the species-level management of wireworms (Coleoptera: Elateridae).

Economically important species of wireworms (Coleoptera: Elateridae) were successfully associated with adults using cytochrome oxidase I (COI) barcoding, proving the usefulness of this technique to associate life stages in taxonomically difficult pest groups. Previously unrecognized and morphologically difficult, even indistinguishable, pest larvae were shown to be identifiable using this technique. This is a critical step toward discovering effective species-based integrated pest management strategies for this resurgent pest group following the loss of Lindane seed treatments. Three new adult—larval associations were discovered for Hadromorphus callidus (Brown), Hemicrepidius carbonatus (LeConte) and Metanomus insidiosus (LeConte). Hypnoidus bicolor (Eschscholtz) was shown to comprise multiple divergent lineages at a level usually considered different species, indicating that the population structure of some pest species requires more investigation. The status of the prairie grain wireworm, Selatosomus destructor (Brown), as a full species or as a subspecies of Selatosomus aeripennis (Kirby) is called into question.
Double-ended breaks in reactor primary piping

Abstract The US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is reevaluating current design criteria for light water reactor plants that require postulation of a double-ended guillotine break (DEGB) in reactor coolant piping. In support of this reevaluation, the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory has estimated the probability of occurrence of a DEGB, and has assessed the effect that earthquakes have on DEGB probability. This report describes a probabilistic evaluation of reactor coolant loop piping in pressurized water reactor (PWR) plants having nuclear steam supply systems designed by Westinghouse and by Combustion Engineering. Two causes of pipe break are considered: pipe fracture due to the growth of cracks at welded joints (“direct” DEGB), and pipe rupture indirectly caused by the seismically-induced failure of heavy component supports (“indirect” DEGB). The probability of direct DEGB was estimated using a probabilistic fracture mechanics model. The probability of indirect DEGB was estimated by convolving seismic hazard and support fragility. The results of this study indicate that the probability of a DEGB from either cause is very low for these plants, and that the NRC should therefore consider eliminating reactor coolant loop DEGB as a plant design basis in favor of more realistic criteria.
How to Do Multimodal Detection of Affective States

The human-element is crucial for designing and implementing interactive intelligent systems, and therefore on instructional design. This tutorial provides a description and hands-on demonstration for detection of affective states and a description of devices, methodologies and tools necessary for automatic detection of affective states. Automatic detection of affective states requires that the computer sense information that is complex and diverse, it can range from brain-waves signals, and biofeedback readings to face-based and gesture emotion recognition to posture and pressure sensing. Obtaining, processing and understanding that information, to create systems that improve learning, requires the use of several sensing devices (and their perceiving algorithms) and the application of software tools.
A comparison of the oxytocin and vasopressin responses to the 5-HT1A agonist and potential anxiolytic drug alnespirone (S-20499).

Abstract VAN DE KAR, L. D., A. D. LEVY, Q. LI AND M. S. BROWNFIELD. A comparison of the oxytocin and vasopressin responses to the 5-HT1A agonist and potential anxiolytic drug alnespirone (S-20499). PHARMACOL BIOCHEM BEHAV 60(3) 677–683, 1998.—The effect of the serotonin1A (5-HT1A) agonist alnespirone (S-20499) on the secretion of both oxytocin and vasopressin was examined in the same conscious, unrestrained male rats. The dose–response and time–course effects on the secretion of oxytocin and vasopressin revealed that alnespirone stimulated oxytocin in a dose-dependent manner, but did not increase vasopressin secretion. Time of maximal effect following injection of alnespirone (5 mg/kg, IP) was as early as 15 min postinjection, with significant stimulation persisting for 30 min. Pretreatment with a low dose of the 5-HT1A/β-adrenoceptor antagonist (−)-pindolol (0.3 mg/kg, SC), 30 min prior to injection of alnespirone (0, 2, 5, and 10 mg/kg, IP) shifted the dose–response curve to the right and inhibited the effect of alnespirone on plasma oxytocin concentration. Furthermore, pretreatment with a low or a high dose of the 5-HT1A/2A/dopamine D2 antagonist spiperone (0.01 or 3 mg/kg, SC) dose dependently shifted the alnespirone dose–response curve effect of alnespirone to the right. None of these drugs, alone or in combination, altered plasma vasopressin levels. These studies suggest that 5-HT1A receptor mechanisms mediate the effect of alnespirone on the secretion of oxytocin. Furthermore, these studies suggest that 5-HT1A receptor mechanisms do not participate in the serotonergic regulation of vasopressin secretion.
Resolution of volatile fuel compound profiles from Ascocoryne sarcoides: a comparison by proton transfer reaction-mass spectrometry and solid phase microextraction gas chromatography-mass spectrometry

Volatile hydrocarbon production by Ascocoryne sacroides was studied over its growth cycle. Gas-phase compounds were measured continuously with a proton transfer reaction-mass spectrometry (PTR-MS) and at distinct time points with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) using head space solid phase microextraction (SPME). The PTR-MS ion signal permitted temporal resolution of the volatile production while the SPME results revealed distinct compound identities. The quantitative PTR-MS results showed the volatile production was dominated by ethanol and acetaldehyde, while the concentration of the remainder of volatiles consistently reached 2,000 ppbv. The measurement of alcohols from the fungal culture by the two techniques correlated well. Notable compounds of fuel interest included nonanal, 1-octen-3-ol, 1-butanol, 3-methyl- and benzaldehyde. Abiotic comparison of the two techniques demonstrated SPME fiber bias toward higher molecular weight compounds, making quantitative efforts with SPME impractical. Together, PTR-MS and SPME GC-MS were shown as valuable tools for characterizing volatile fuel compound production from microbiological sources.
Glucocorticoid receptor in circulating mononuclear leukocytes.

Binding of [3H]dexamethasone ([3H]Dex) and [3H]cortisol to normal female goat mononuclear leukocytes (MNL) was studied at 4 and 20 C. Dissociation studies of [3H]Dex and [3H]cortisol from MNL after 3 h of incubation at 20 C indicated the presence of at least two components; a small pool with a dissociation rate constant (kOfr) of 15 ± 8 x 10-3 min-1 for [3H]Dex and 35 ± 11 x 10-3 min-1 for [3H]cortisol, and a large capacity pool with a kOff of 1.0 ± 0.1 X 10-3 min-1 for [3H]Dex and 11 ± 2 X 10-3 min-1 for [3H]cortisol. The calculated koff for the slow component was indistinguishable from the kOfr for nuclei isolated from cells that had been preincubated with [3H]Dex or [3H]cortisol. Thus, for the intact cells the slow component probably represents the dissociation of an activated steroid-receptor complex transformed by a temperature-dependent process at 20 C. The rapid phase may represent the dissociation of an inactive steroid-receptor complex in the cytosol at 20 C. The Kd obtained from equilibrium Scat...
Volume magnification in particle field holography

An image–object volume relationship in holography for applications in quantitative particle fields is determined in terms of known physical parameters. The general relationships are described for collimated, point reference, or reconstruction sources. Some relevant methods for correlating the transverse magnification at different longitudinal distances are also described.
Multimarket Maneuvering in Uncertain Spheres of Influence: Resource Diversion Strategies

Firms competing in multiple markets find equilibrium through spheres of influence and mutual forbearance, but imperfect competitive information may give one firm an incentive to influence rivals' behavior and uncover information. We suggest that a firm's resource allocations can divert competitors' resource allocations, enhancing the firm's own sphere of influence without precipitating a destructive all-out war. We define the stratagems thrust, feint, and gambit and conclude that corporate strategy decisions can only be imperfectly understood if competitive interaction is not taken into account.
Does FGF23 toxicity influence the outcome of chronic kidney disease

Maintenance of physiologic phosphate balance is important for essential cellular functions [1]. Dysregulation of the phosphate balance in the form of hypophosphataemia can lead to the development of myopathy, cardiac dysfunction, haematological abnormalities and bone mineralization defects [1]. In contrast, hyperphosphataemia can cause vascular and soft tissue calcification [2,3]. Studies have convincingly demonstrated that FGF23 is a master regulator of systemic phosphate homeostasis [4–9]. FGF23 is a 30 kDa protein that is proteolytically processed to generate smaller N-terminal (∼18 kDa) and Cterminal (∼12 kDa) fragments. The N-terminal fragment of FGF23 contains the FGF receptor-binding domain, while the C-terminal fragment is proposed to be necessary for interaction with Klotho (a type 1 membrane protein with homology to s-glucosidase), which is believed to be a cofactor in FGF23–FGF receptor interactions [10]. FGF23 is a circulating phosphaturic factor that controls systemic phosphate homeostasis by regulating renal inorganic phosphate reabsorption [5]. The expression of members of the sodium phosphate co-transporter family (Na/Pi-2a and Na/Pi-2c) that mediate phosphate uptake in proximal tubular epithelial cells can be suppressed by FGF23 [11]. By suppressing Na/Pi co-transporter activity, FGF23 can reduce renal phosphate reabsorption, thereby increasing urinary phosphate excretion. The in vivo phosphaturic effect of FGF23 is convincingly demonstrated in animal studies. For instance, transgenic mice overexpressing human or mouse FGF23/Fgf23 have severe urinary phosphate wasting due to the suppression of renal Na/Pi co-transporter activity [12–14]. Inactivation of Fgf23 function in mice resulted
Visualization of targeted transduction by engineered lentiviral vectors

We have reported a method to target lentiviral vectors to specific cell types. This method requires the incorporation of two distinct molecules on the viral vector surface: one is an antibody that renders the targeting specificity for the engineered vector, and the other is a fusogenic protein that allows the engineered vector to enter the target cell. However, the molecular mechanism that controls the targeted infection needs to be defined. In this report, we tracked the individual lentiviral particles by labeling the virus with the GFP-Vpr fusion protein. We were able to visualize the surface-displayed proteins on a single virion as well as antibody-directed targeting to a desired cell type. We also demonstrated the dynamics of virus fusion with endosomes and monitored endosome-associated transport of viruses in target cells. Our results suggest that the fusion between the engineered lentivirus and endosomes takes place at the early endosome level, and that the release of the viral core into the cytosol at the completion of the virus-endosome fusion is correlated with the endosome maturation process. This imaging study sheds some light on the infection mechanism of the engineered lentivirus and can be beneficial to the design of more efficient gene delivery vectors.
Adhesive Characterization & Durability of Self-Adhered Flashings

Self-adhered flashing products can very effectively maintain a durable moisture-tight seal at the window-wall interface, which is highly vulnerable to moisture intrusion. However, it is essential that these products be installed under conditions where adequate adhesion to the substrate is achieved. Also, the self-adhered flashing products must have thermal durability and dimensional stability to maintain their performance at the high temperatures that can exist behind siding. This study gives a preliminary adhesion characterization assessment of six self-adhered flashing products, three with modified-asphalt based adhesives and three with butyl based adhesives, onto several common building substrates and installed at a range of temperatures, including moist and dusty conditions. What is found is that the butyl based adhesive systems have a broader window of installation surface conditions and temperatures where “adequate adhesion” is achieved without the use of a primer than the modifiedasphalt based adhesive products. Also, a thermal aging study shows that the butyl based adhesive products are more thermally stable than the modified-asphalt based products at typical temperatures behind siding. Also, film topsheets are more prone to deformation and curling after thermal aging than nonwovens composite or foil laminate based topsheets.
Hyperhomocysteinemia and the Endocrine System: Implications for Atherosclerosis and Thrombosis

I. Introduction II. Methionine-Homocysteine Metabolism A. Methionine metabolism B. Regulation of remethylation and transsulfuration of H(e) III. Nomenclature and Methodology in the Measurement of Plasma H(e) A. Methionine load test IV. Determinants of Plasma Homocysteine A. Physiological B. Genetics of hyperhomocysteinemia C. Nutritional D. Hormones and H(e) metabolism V. Homocysteine and Diabetes Mellitus (DM) A. Hyperhomocysteinemia, renal failure, and diabetic nephropathy B. Effect of glucose and insulin on H(e) metabolism VI. Hyperhomocysteinemia and Cholesterol Metabolism VII. Hyperhomocysteinemia in Premature Vascular Disease A. Epidemiological and prospective studies B. Studies in patients with established vascular disease C. Negative studies D. Effect of low plasma H(e) on cardiovascular disease VIII. Possible Mechanisms of Accelerated Vascular Disease in Homocysteinemia A. Platelet dysfunction B. Coagulation abnormalities C. Effects on the endothelium D. Effects of hyperhomocysteinemia on the art...
MHC class I-cestricted cytotoxic T lymphocytes to viral antigens destroy hepatocytes in mice infected with E1-deleted recombinant adenoviruses

Abstract The use of E1-deleted recombinant adenoviruses in gene therapy has consistently been associated with transient gene expression and inflammation due to immune-based destruction of the Infected cells. We have used murine models of adenovirus-mediated gene transfer to liver to investigate these immunologic mechanisms. Adoptive transfer experiments, as well as studies involving genetic knockout mice, confirmed the original hypothesis that cell-mediated immunity induced by E1-deleted adenovirus destroyed transgene-expressing hepatocytes and defined MHC class I-restricted CD8 + cytolytic lymphocytes as the primary immune effectors for hepatocyte destruction. Responses mediated by CD4 + cells per se were insufficient to mediate destruction of hepatocytes in vivo, despite the activation of virus-specific T helper cells of Th1 subsets. A better understanding of the response of the host to in vivo gene therapy is important in evaluating its usefulness in humans.
Reliability assessment of high cycle fatigue design of gas turbine blades using the probabilistic Goodman Diagram

A probability-based procedure has been developed to predict the reliability of gas turbine engine blades subjected to high cycle fatigue. The procedure provides a systemic approach for predicting and designing turbomachinery blading reliability against various potential high cycle fatigue problems for all relevant vibratory modes, and taking into account variability in geometry (e.g. dimensional variation, surface smoothness, etc.). The variability in materials (e.g. damage, cracks, degradation, etc.), unsteady aerodynamics, and structural damping can be also considered in this approach. A reliability prediction was performed on gas turbine blades at high frequency modes (e.g. third strip modes) using a probabilistic vibratory stress distribution in conjunction with the modified Goodman Diagrams. The cumulative reliability and risk assessment are then calculated using the fast probability integration (FPI) technique to construct a novel probabilistic Goodman diagram which provides lifetime design guide lines for blades and an optimal maintenance strategy in management, in decision-making relating to the PM/inspection scheduling, replacement, and spare parts requirements.
Oscillations and slow patterning in the antennal lobe

Odor presentation generates both fast oscillations and slow patterning in the spiking activity of the projection neurons (PNs) in the antennal lobe (AL) of locusts, moths and bees. Experimental results indicate that the oscillations are the result of the interaction between the PNs and the inhibitory local neurons (LNs) in the AL; e.g., blocking inhibition by application of GABA-receptor antagonists abolishes these oscillations. The slow patterning, on the other hand, was shown to be somewhat resistant to such blockage. In a H-H model, we reproduce both the oscillations and the slow patterning. As previously suggested, the oscillations are the result of the interaction between the PNs and LNs. We suggest that calcium and calcium-dependent potassium channels (found in PNs of bees and moths) are sufficient to account for the slow patterning resistant to the application of GABA-receptor antagonists. The intrinsic bursting property of the PNs, resulting from these additional modeled currents, give rise to another network feature that was seen experimentally in locusts: A relatively small increase in the number of additional generated PN action potentials when LN input is blocked. Consequently, the major effect of network inhibition is to redistribute the action potentials of the PNs from bursting to one action potential per cycle of the oscillations.
Network analysis of filter cake pore structure by high resolution X-ray microtomography

Continuous filtration of fine particles involves filter cake formation and removal of surface moisture by drawing air through the pore structure network. Conventional network theory can be used to study the phenomena of flow through a porous structure by treating the pores as discrete volumes and connecting these with pore throats as resistances of zero volume. In this regard, analysis of the pore connectivity in a packed bed of particles should allow for a detailed description of fluid flow and transport in the filter cake structure. As the resolution and the techniques for 3-D geometric analysis have advanced in the last decade, it is now possible to specify in detail the pore structure in three-dimensional digital space using high-resolution X-ray microtomography to resolve features with micrometer resolution. This paper presents preliminary experimental findings of a filter cake pore structure in 3-D using X-ray microtomographic techniques.
Alcohol use among immigrant Latino farmworkers in North Carolina

BACKGROUND: Heavy alcohol use among Latino farmworkers is believed to be common, but it remains poorly documented. METHODS: Interviewer-administered survey questionnaires were administered to 151 Latino male farmworkers in Eastern North Carolina; topics included frequency of alcohol consumption, amount of alcohol typically consumed, frequency of consuming five or more drinks in a single setting, and signs of alcohol abuse/dependence. RESULTS: Over one-quarter (26%) completely abstain from alcohol, but 27% report frequent heavy drinking, or drinking five or more alcoholic beverages two or more times per month. Over one-third of farmworkers (39%) may be alcohol-dependent. Frequent heavy drinking is more common among single farmworkers and among those who do not follow the crops, and dependence is more common among farmworkers living in camps comprised of both H2A and non-contract workers. CONCLUSIONS: There is substantial variation in alcohol use among Latino farmworkers. Although a substantial proportion of farmworkers abstain from alcohol, an equally substantial proportion report alcohol use that poses significant risk for injury on and off the job. More research is needed to document the potential threat to Latino farmworkers by their alcohol use. Interventions targeting alcohol are needed to minimize the risk of injury in an already dangerous occupation. Language: en
Evolution and Hypertension

Evolution by natural selection is the supreme organizing principle of biology, but it has not been widely applied in medicine.1 Medicine has historically been concerned with mechanistic, or “proximate,” answers to questions of how diseases develop and cause pathology. In contrast, evolutionary, or “ultimate,” questions, frequently ask “why” structures or functions are as they are.2 A full explanation of a disease should ideally address both, and what follows is a review of aspects of proximate and evolutionary thinking in hypertension. As animals evolved, body size increased, and delivery of nutrients to cells came to exceed the range of diffusion. Simple systems capable of supporting cellular metabolism arose, and natural selection went on to shape our staggeringly complex, highly integrated cardiovascular system. Contemporary cardiovascular research is almost exclusively concerned with detailed descriptions of the proximate features of cardiovascular function and structure, and we now understand many aspects in exquisite detail. Blood pressure, however, cannot be reduced to the individual elements of the circulation. It is a function of all of them acting in concert; it is an emergent property of the entire system. All hierarchically organized biological systems have higher-order emergent functions that depend on, but are not predictable from, the structures and functions of lower levels,3 and because emergent properties are lost when a system is disaggregated, integrative physiology is critical to understanding blood pressure regulation. The most comprehensive description of cardiovascular system physiology and blood pressure control is the systems analysis mathematical model developed by Guyton et al,4 which proposes renal pressure-natriuresis as the dominant regulator of blood pressure. The relationship of chronic pressure-natriuresis to the regulation of blood pressure level has been the focus of a great deal of research, and we now understand some of the regulatory mechanisms (reviewed in Reference 5). Pressure-natriuresis …
Reply by the Author to Dewey H. Hodges

References ^o, C. L., "Flexural Behavior of a Rotating Sandwich Tapered Beam," AIAA Journal, Vol. 27, No. 3,1989, pp. 359-369. Ko, C. L., "Dynamic Analysis for Free Vibrations of Rotating Sandwich Tapered Beams," AIAA Journal, Vol. 27, No. 10,1989, pp. 1425-1433. Bramwell, A. R. S., Helicopter Dynamics, Arnold, London, 1976, Chap. 9. Johnson, W., Helicopter Theory, Princeton Univ. Press, Princeton, NJ, 1980, Article 9-3.3. 5 Stafford, R. O., and Giurgiutiu, V, "Semi-Analytic Methods for Rotating Timoshenko Reams? International Journal of Mechanical Sciences, Vol. 17, 1975, pp. 719-727. Wright, A. D., Smith, C. E., Thresher, R. W., and Wang, J. L. C., "Vibration Modes of Centrifugally-Stiffened Beams," Journal of Applied Mechanics, Vol. 49, No. 1, 1982, pp. 197-202. Mostaghel, N., and Tadjbachsh, I., "Buckling of Rotating Rods and Plates," International Journal of the Mechanical Sciences, Vol. 15, June 1973, pp. 429^34. Peters, D. A., and Hodges, D. H., "In-Plane Vibration and Buckling of a Rotating Beam Clamped Off the Axis of Rotation," Journal of Applied Mechanics, Vol. 47, No. 2, 1980, pp. 398-402. Hodges, D. H., and Dowell, E. H., "Nonlinear Equations of Motion for the Elastic Bending and Torsion of Twisted Nommiform Rotor Blades," NASA TN D-7818, Dec. 1974. Kaza, K. R. V, and Kvaternik, R. G., "Nonlinear Flap-Lag-Axial Equations of a Rotating Beam," AIAA Journal, Vol. 15, No. 6, 1977, pp. 871874. 11 Shames, I. H., and Dym, C. L., Energy and Finite Element Methods in Structural Mechanics, Hemisphere, New York, 1985, pp. 197-204. 12 Smith, C. V, "Comment on 'Large Deflection of Rectangular Sandwich Plates,' " AIAA Journal,Vol 6, No. 3, 1968, p. 574. Brunelle, E. J., "Stress Redistribution and Instability of Rotating Beams and Disks," AIAA Journal, Vol. 9, No. 4,1971, pp. 758, 759. Hodges, D. H., "On the Extensional Vibrations of Rotating Bars," International Journal of Non-Linear Mechanics, Vol. 12, No. 5, 1977, pp. 293-296.
Hydrodynamic sorting and ecology of a Pleistocene mammalian assemblage from California (U.S.A.)

Abstract Bulk sediment samples and surface collections were made from deltaic distributary channel deposits for a paleoecological investigation in the Late Pleistocene Montezuma Formation at Rodeo, California (U.S.A.). Over 1300 kg of bulk samples were screenwashed, and all particles greater than 1.3 mm were saved for analysis. About 3400 identifiable vertebrate specimens of 36 genera (40 species) were recovered. Variations from the expected per cent preservation for selected skeletal elements of small mammal general (N = 1889), for elements of nine rodent genera compared (N = 1136), for cheek teeth of six rodent genera (N = 447), and sediment particle size distribution of a representative locality (464 kg sample) provide qualitative and quantitative information about the effects of hydrodynamic sorting on the preservation of small mammal fossils. Elements which are small, long, and slender, or have large surface to volume ratios are extremely rare. Frequency of preservation and size of cheek teeth decrease in the order: M1, M2, P4-M3, P3. The greatest mass of sediment is in the 1.3–1.4 mm interval where 25% of the identifiable mammal bones and teeth appear. About 80% of the fossils are in the 1.3–3.0 mm range. Hydrodynamic sorting is responsible for the low per cent preservation and relative abundance of each of three species from the Rodeo site (Reithrodontomys raviventris, Scapanus latimanus, and Sorex sp.). Size and shape of skeletal elements are the critical factors, not distance of transport. To ascertain if a species belonged to the community near the site of deposition and to determine its original relative abundance there requires study of many factors in addition to sorting.
Connectivity measures are robust biomarkers of cortical function and plasticity after stroke

Valid biomarkers of motor system function after stroke could improve clinical decision-making. Electroencephalography-based measures are safe, inexpensive, and accessible in complex medical settings and so are attractive candidates. This study examined specific electroencephalography cortical connectivity measures as biomarkers by assessing their relationship with motor deficits across 28 days of intensive therapy. Resting-state connectivity measures were acquired four times using dense array (256 leads) electroencephalography in 12 hemiparetic patients (7.3 ± 4.0 months post-stroke, age 26-75 years, six male/six female) across 28 days of intensive therapy targeting arm motor deficits. Structural magnetic resonance imaging measured corticospinal tract injury and infarct volume. At baseline, connectivity with leads overlying ipsilesional primary motor cortex (M1) was a robust and specific marker of motor status, accounting for 78% of variance in impairment; ipsilesional M1 connectivity with leads overlying ipsilesional frontal-premotor (PM) regions accounted for most of this (R(2) = 0.51) and remained significant after controlling for injury. Baseline impairment also correlated with corticospinal tract injury (R(2) = 0.52), though not infarct volume. A model that combined a functional measure of connectivity with a structural measure of injury (corticospinal tract injury) performed better than either measure alone (R(2) = 0.93). Across the 28 days of therapy, change in connectivity with ipsilesional M1 was a good biomarker of motor gains (R(2) = 0.61). Ipsilesional M1-PM connectivity increased in parallel with motor gains, with greater gains associated with larger increases in ipsilesional M1-PM connectivity (R(2) = 0.34); greater gains were also associated with larger decreases in M1-parietal connectivity (R(2) = 0.36). In sum, electroencephalography measures of motor cortical connectivity-particularly between ipsilesional M1 and ipsilesional premotor-are strongly related to motor deficits and their improvement with therapy after stroke and so may be useful biomarkers of cortical function and plasticity. Such measures might provide a biological approach to distinguishing patient subgroups after stroke.
Supporting the STEM Pipeline: Linking Applied STEM Course-Taking in High School to Declaring a STEM Major in College

AbstractRecently, through the support from the Obama administration, the traditional STEM curricula (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) in high schools are being updated with integrated, applied STEM courses (e.g., technology and engineering) in order to enhance the “real world” applicability of scientific fields and ultimately to strengthen the link between what students learn in high school and college major choice. Using longitudinal survey and transcript data, this study examines whether taking these applied STEM courses in high school can predict higher odds of declaring a STEM major in college. The findings reveal that taking applied STEM courses in high school is associated with a higher probability of declaring a STEM college major for four-year students. Moreover, applied STEM course-taking is highly predictive of declaring an applied STEM major. Implications are discussed.
Targeting Sirtuin-1 prolongs murine renal allograft survival and function.

Current immunosuppressive medications used after transplantation have significant toxicities. Foxp3 + T-regulatory cells can prevent allograft rejection without compromising protective host immunity. Interestingly, inhibiting the class III histone/protein deacetylase Sirtuin-1 can augment Foxp3 + T-regulatory suppressive function through increasing Foxp3 acetylation. Here we determined whether Sirtuin-1 targeting can stabilize biological allograft function. BALB/c kidney allografts were transplanted into C57BL/6 recipients with a CD4-conditional deletion of Sirtuin-1 (Sirt1 fl/fl CD4 cre ) or mice treated with a Sirtuin-1–specific inhibitor (EX-527), and the native kidneys removed. Blood chemistries and hematocrit were followed weekly. Sirt1 fl/fl CD4 cre recipients showed markedly longer survival and improved kidney function. Sirt1 fl/fl CD4 cre recipients exhibited donor-specific tolerance, accepted BALB/c, but rejected third-party C3H cardiac allografts. C57BL/6 recipients of BALB/c renal allografts that were treated with EX-527 showed improved survival and renal function at 1, but not 10 mg/kg/day. Pharmacologic inhibition of Sirtuin-1 also improved renal allograft survival and function with dosing effects having relevance to outcome. Thus, inhibiting Sirtuin-1 can be a useful asset in controlling T-cell–mediated rejection. However, effects on non–T cells that could adversely affect allograft survival and function merit consideration.
Secure receiver access control for IP multicast at the network level

The classical service model of IP multicast is open; anyone can receive multicast data. When using this model, it is impossible to ensure that receivers are authorized to receive the data, or (if appropriate) to generate any revenue from a service based on open multicast. This has resulted in restricted deployment of IP multicast.We have developed a secure IP multicast architecture to enforce receiver access control at two levels: application level and network level. This paper addresses the design and validation of the solution at the network level. The design starts from four assumptions, which express the independence of the network-level solution from the previous work at the application level. At the network level, receiver access control is achieved using two proposed protocols: Secure Internet Group Management Protocol (SIGMP) and Group Security Association Management (GSAM) protocol.SIGMP is an extension to IGMP, in which the messages that are related to secure groups are protected by IPsec Group Security Associations (GSAs). GSAM manages the IPsec GSAs used in SIGMP and couples the network-level access control with the application-level access control.The design requirements for SIGMP and for GSAM are expressed in terms of Design Criteria and Security Goals. These design requirements are then used to justify the final design. Several security properties of GSAM have been formally validated using AVISPA and the remaining security properties of our proposal have been analyzed.
Abstract 222: Differential p73 isoform expression profile in non-Hodgkin's lymphoma with 1p36 chromosomal abnormality modulates angiogenic phenotype

Proceedings: AACR 102nd Annual Meeting 2011‐‐ Apr 2‐6, 2011; Orlando, FL Alteration of tumor suppressor gene function often leads to imbalance in expression of angiogenic and angiostatic factors facilitating disease progression. TP73, a member of the p53 tumor suppressor gene family, regulates many important cellular pathways and has been shown to be abnormally expressed in non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). TP73 gene function is controlled by harmony between two isoforms with opposing functions, the full length TAp73 protein (pro-apoptotic) and the NH2-terminally truncated ΔNp73 protein (anti-apoptotic through antagonizing both TAp73 and p53). We have observed differential ΔNp73 up-regulation and increase in ΔNp73:TAp73 expression ratio among NHL cases with 1p36 chromosomal disruption as compared to NHL cases without 1p36 disruption, which is associated with aggressiveness. To decipher whether deregulated p73 isoforms expression modulates the angiogenic potential in NHL we examined the mRNA expression of angiogenic factors (VEGF-A, FGF-2, and angiogenic chemokine CXCL-8) and angiostatic factors (TSP-1 and Endostatin) in NHL cases with and without chromosome 1p36 abnormality by real-time PCR. We observed higher levels of expression of angiogenic factors (VEGF-A, FGF-2, and CXCL-8) and lower levels of angiostatic factors (TSP-1 and Endostatin) in NHL cases with 1p36 abnormality as compared to NHL cases without 1p36 abnormality. Next, we performed a non-parametric bivariate correlation analysis (Kendall's tau_b and Spearman's rho) to examine whether ΔNp73:TAp73 expression ratio correlates with the expression of angiogenic and angiostatic factors. We observed a significant correlation between ΔNp73:TAp73 expression ratio with the expression of VEGF-A (r=0.900, p<0.001), FGF-2 (r=0.620, p<0.05) and TSP-1 (r=−0.873, p<0.001). To further elucidate the relationship between differential p73 isoforms expression and the expression pattern of angiogenic and angiostatic factors, we stably transfected an NHL cell line with 1p36 disruption, Granta-519 (TAp73 non expressor) with a wild type TAp73 mammalian expression vector. We observed an up-regulation of TSP-1 and Endostatin expression among Granta-519 cells transfected with TAp73 vectors compared to isogenic control vector transfected cells. Our data highlights the molecular and functional consequences of the differential p73 isoforms expression pattern caused by 1p36 chromosomal disruption on angiogenic phenotype in NHL. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 222. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-222
Studies in Tropical Ascomycetes—V. Species of Phyllachora

The genus Phyllachora includes a group of parasitic Ascomycetes familiar to the mycologist in the northern regions mainly on grasses and sedges. In connection with our work in tropical islands, the writer has been impressed by the number of species of Phyllachora (using the name in a broad sense) which occur there on dicotyledonous hosts. Some of them appear to be undescribed while a number of species from the West Indies have been recently described by F. L. Stevens, C. E. Chardon, and other mycologists who have worked in the islands. Many, however, are very poorly known and an attempt is being made at this time to bring these together and publish them with brief diagnoses and illustrations.
Modeling and Simulation of Trajectory-Oriented Air Traffic Management Concepts

*This paper presents a simulation tool called TCSim (Trajectory-Centered Simulator) developed under NASA’s Airspace Systems Program Advanced Air Transportation Technology project and Vehicle Systems Program Quiet Aircraft Technology project to aid trajectory-oriented air traffic management research. TCSim can simulate common commercial aircraft types, air traffic controller and pilot agents, and air traffic control automation in fast time, outputting useful metrics. The paper describes TCSim’s FMS trajectory representation, and discusses how TCSim supports Monte Carlo concept evaluations, scenario design for human-in-the-loop studies, and automation research.
Mass and charge distribution analysis in negative electrosprays of large polyethylene glycol chains by ion mobility mass spectrometry.

The mass spectrometric (MS) complexity associated with the quasi-continuous distribution of mass and charge (m, z) of electrosprayed industrial polymers may be moderated by use of ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) and MS in series. However, when the high charge levels typical of polar polymers stretch the gas phase ions into linear configurations, the mobility Z tends to be closely correlated with m/z, and IMS-MS does not yield spectra more readily interpretable than pure MS spectra. Here we note that the usual high charge states observed in the ESI of polyethylene glycol (PEG) arise because the stretched gas phase chain is able to strongly bind solution cations. We weaken this binding and therefore moderate the charge level by electrospraying in negative mode (NESI). This produces exclusively globular gas phase ions. IMS-MS then readily separates into distinct bands the different z-states, enabling an unambiguous assignment of all ions and simplifying the determination of mass distributions fz(m) for each ...
Erythropoietic Stimulating Activity During the First Ninety Days of Life

SummarySerial observations were made on plasma erythropoietin levels of infants during the first 90 days of life. Results indicate variable erythropoietin titers and are suggestive of a physiologic control of erythro-poiesis during the newborn period by erythro-poietin.
High Throughput Sketch Based Online Heavy Hitter Detection on FPGA

In the context of networking, a heavy hitter is an entity in a data stream whose amount of activity (such as bandwidth consumption or number of connections) is higher than a given threshold. Detecting heavy hitters is a critical task for network management and security in the Internet and data centers. Data streams in modern network usually contain millions of entities, such as traffic flows or IP domains. It is challenging to detect heavy hitters at a high throughput while supporting such a large number of entities. I this work, we propose a high throughput online heavy hitter detector based on the Count-min sketch algorithm on FPGA. We propose a high throughput hash computation architecture, optimize the Count-min sketch for hardwarebased heavy hitter detection and use forwarding to deal with data hazards. The post place-and-route results of our architecture on a state-of-the-art FPGA shows high throughput and scalability. Our architecture achieves a throughput of 114 Gbps while supporting a typical 1 M concurrent entities. It sustains 100+ Gbps throughput while supporting various number of concurrent entities, stream sizes and accuracy requirements. Our implementation demonstrates improved performance compared with other sketch acceleration techniques on various platforms using similar sketch configurations.
High-level modeling for computer-aided clinical trials of medical devices

Medical devices like the Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) are life-critical systems. Malfunctions of the device can cause serious injury or death of the patient. In addition to rigorous testing and verification during the development process, new medical devices often go through clinical trials to evaluate their safety and performance on sample populations. Clinical trials are costly and prone to failure if not planned and executed properly. Evaluating devices on computer models of the relevant physiological systems can provide helpful insights into the safety and efficacy of the device, thus helping to plan and execute a clinical trial. In this paper, we demonstrate how to develop high-level physiological models of cardiac electrophysiology and how to apply them to the Rhythm ID Head to Head Trial (RIGHT), a 5-year long clinical trial for comparing two ICDs. We refer to this as a Computer-Aided Clinical Trial (CACT). We explored two modeling options, a white-box model capturing the mechanisms of the physiological behaviors, and a blackbox model which uses machine learning methods to synthesize physiological input signals. Both models were able to generate physiological inputs to the ICDs and we discuss the challenges and appropriateness of the two modeling options.
Modeling electrokinetics in ionic liquids

Using direct numerical simulations, we provide a thorough study regarding the electrokinetics of ionic liquids. In particular, modified Poisson-Nernst-Planck equations are solved to capture the crowding and overscreening effects characteristic of an ionic liquid. For modeling electrokinetic flows in an ionic liquid, the modified Poisson-Nernst-Planck equations are coupled with Navier-Stokes equations to study the coupling of ion transport, hydrodynamics, and electrostatic forces. Specifically, we consider the ion transport between two parallel charged surfaces, charging dynamics in a nanopore, capacitance of electric double-layer capacitors, electroosmotic flow in a nanochannel, electroconvective instability on a plane ion-selective surface, and electroconvective flow on a curved ion-selective surface. We also discuss how crowding and overscreening and their interplay affect the electrokinetic behaviors of ionic liquids in these application problems.
Attractor Density Clustering

Stationary dynamical systems have invariant measures (or densities) that are characteristic of the particular dynamical system. We develop a method to characterize this density by partitioning the attractor into the smallest regions in phase space that contain information about the structure of the attractor. To accomplish this, we develop a statistic that tells us if we get more information about our data by dividing a set of data points into partitions rather than just lumping all the points together. We use this method to show that not only can we detect small changes in an attractor from a circuit experiment, but we can also distinguish between a large set of numerically generated chaotic attractors designed by Sprott
Operating mode transition control of a SiC integrated DC DC powertrain charger for electric vehicles

In this paper, a control strategy of an integrated, reconfigurable DC-DC converter for plugin electric vehicles (EVs) is proposed. The integrated converter, capable of operating in both traction and charging modes, can be reconfigured as an interleaved boost or a dual active bridge (DAB) converter. The existing contactors of the battery management system (BMS) are used for reconfiguration between the boost and DAB modes. To maximize overall power conversion efficiency during traction operation, the converter is dynamically reconfigured to operate in the mode with highest efficiency at the present operating point. A switching transition control approach is developed for fast and seamless switching, ensuring zero-voltage turn-on and zero-current turn-off of the BMS contactors. The smooth transitions minimize switching-induced degradation of the BMS contactors, and allow uninterrupted power delivery during mode transitions. The experimental results of the prototype are presented to verify the functionality of the proposed control approach.
Quasi-optical power generation and measurement technique

This paper summarizes the recent progress of engineering efforts in the area of active circuit techniques for quasi-optical applications. Typical grid type structures are described. In addition, a number of schemes for locking the output for a coherent power combining are reviewed. Some methods for characterizing these components are reviewed.
Winterhardiness and turf quality of accessions of perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) from public collections

The lack of winterhardiness of some cool-season grasses limit their usefulness in northern climates. Perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) lacks winterhardiness in Minnesota but has desirable qualities, such as wear tolerance and rapid establishment, that are useful in many turf applications. While domesticated germplasm may lack winterhardiness, undomesticated wild or landrace germplasm may have genes for better winterhardiness in environments like Minnesota's. In 2004, 300 accessions from two public sources in the USA were planted with eight check varieties and populations in two environments in central Minnesota, St. Paul and Becker. Thirty individuals of each accession were evaluated for seedling vigor and tiller survival after the first winter. Other turf-quality traits and tiller survival after the second winter were evaluated on those plants that survived the first winter. The first winter was extremely harsh and resulted in the death of all accessions and checks at Becker. There was good differentiation among accessions at St. Paul for tiller survival, with 8 of the 300 accessions performing better than NK200, the most winterhardy check variety. The second winter was considerably less harsh, with less death of tillers and whole plants. While the accessions do not have suitable turf quality for direct domestication, turf quality can be improved through breeding.