cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Hear, listen, play: how to free your students' aural, improvisation and performance skills

How can instrumental, ensemble and classroom music teachers incorporate informal learning practices into their music learning settings? In this new book, Green attempts to answer this question by p...
RECENT CHANGES IN THE RURAL COMMUNITIES OF THE UNITED STATES

Summary An analysis of changes between 1960 and 1970 for all 3,000 counties of the U.S.A. forms the basis of the paper. Interpretation of the results of statistical tests leans to the proposition that both rural and urban communities in the U.S.A. share the same system of values and desires. Differences in opportunities to realise these desires through incomes and careers in farming accounts for much migration and changes. Evidence for wide variety in soils, climates, crops, techniques of husbandry by regions in the U.S.A. is not overlooded. A bibliography of recent literature on rural America is given. Reume La base de cet article est formee par une analyse des changements intervenus entre 1960 et 1970 dans tous les 3000 comtes des U.S.A. Ľinterpretation des resultats des tests statistiques supporte la proposition que les communautes urbaines et les communautes rurales des U.S.A. partagent le meme systeme de valeurs et de desirs. Les differences dans les chances de realiser ces desirs en tirant son revenu de et en faisant carriere dans ľagriculture sont largement responsables pour les migrations et les changements. L'eidence de larges varietes de sols, climats, cultures, economies agraires, n'est pas negligee. Une bibliographic de la literature recente sur ľAmerique rurale est donnee. Zusammenfassung Grundlage dieses Artikels bildet eine Analyse der in den 3000 Counties der USA wahrend der Zcitspanne von 1960 bis 1970 eingetretenen Veranderungen. Die Interpretation der Ergebnisse statistischer Tests stutzt die These, das in den landlichen und stadtischen Gemeinden der USA das selbe Wert- und Anspruchssystem herrscht. Vetantwortlich fur einen grosen Teil der Wanderungen und Veranderungen ist der Unterschied in der Moglichkeit, diese Wunsche durch Einkom-men aus der Landwirtschaft und Fortkommen in dieser zu verwirk-lichen. Der augenscheinlich grose Unterschied der Boden, des Klimas, der Kulturen und der Formen der Landbewirtschaftung in den USA wird dabei nicht vernachlassigt. Eine Bibliographic neuerer Literatur iiber das landliche Amerika schlieBt den Beitrag ab.
1.52 μm photoluminescence from InAs quantum dots grown on patterned GaAs buffer

InAs patterned QDs (PQDs) preferentially nucleate on faceted GaAs pyramidal buffers using selective area epitaxy by metalorganic chemical vapor deposition. The photoluminescence (PL) wavelength is shown to be controlled by a single growth parameter, the growth time, without affecting the density of PQDs. Strong room temperature PL emissions over 1.5 mum from PQDs are demonstrated. The long wavelength emission is attributed to the large QD size and the partial strain energy relaxation of PQDs.
Two membrane forms of guanylyl cyclase found in the eye.

Abstract The cDNAs for two membrane guanylyl cyclases, designated E (GC-E) and F (GC-F, were isolated from a rat eye cDNA library. Their deduced topographic structures correspond to known members of the guanylyl cyclase receptor family, containing an extracellular domain, a single membrane-spanning domain, a protein kinase-like domain, and a cyclase catalytic domain. GC-E was expressed in the eye and the pineal gland, whereas GC-F expression was confined to the eye. Overproduction of GC-E and GC-F in COS cells resulted in expression of guanylyl cyclase activity, but ligands known to activate other guanylyl cyclase receptors failed to stimulate enzyme activity. Thus, both GC-E and GC-F remain orphan receptors. Amino acid sequence similarity between GC-E and GC-F in the extracellular region and homology with a cyclase expressed in olfactory neurons and retGC, a rod outer-segment-specific cyclase, suggest that there is another subfamily of guanylyl cyclase receptors, possibly restricted to sensory tissues.
Short-Range Magnetic Order in CoO

The local spin correlation in CoO has been investigated above the N\'eel temperature (${T}_{N}\ensuremath{\cong}289$\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K) by means of magnetic-neutron-scattering measurements of the diffuse intensity from a single crystal near the (111) position in reciprocal space. Spin-correlation parameters were determined out to 50 neighbors for $\frac{{T}_{N}}{T}=0.93 \mathrm{and} 0.97$. The measurements indicate that the fundamental antiferromagnetic spin order, which involves antiparallel layers of spins on alternate {111} planes, is retained above ${T}_{N}$. One notable exception is that the nearest spin-correlation value is approximately -0.01, and not zero as in the completely ordered state. The topological features of the (111) diffuse peak were utilized to ascertain the relative values of ${V}_{1}$, ${V}_{2}$, and ${V}_{3}$, the first-three neighbor potentials. Assuming ${V}_{3}$ to be zero, we found $\frac{{V}_{2}}{{V}_{1}}=7$. When we included a nonzero ${V}_{3}$, it was only possible to restrict the set ($\frac{{V}_{2}}{{V}_{1}}$, $\frac{{V}_{3}}{{V}_{1}}$) to a range of values. On applying a qualitative correction for the spin-orbit coupling, we concluded that the most probable set of potential ratios was $\frac{{V}_{2}}{{V}_{1}}=5.0$ and $\frac{{V}_{3}}{{V}_{1}}=+0.1$. From these ratios we obtain ${J}_{1}\ensuremath{\cong}\ensuremath{-}3.3$\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K, ${J}_{2}\ensuremath{\cong}\ensuremath{-}16.6$\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K, and ${J}_{3}\ensuremath{\cong}\ensuremath{-}0.3$\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K.
THE REVERSE JIGSAW: A PROCESS OF COOPERATIVE LEARNING AND DISCUSSION*

Dans cet article, l'A evoque les effets pedagogiques des methodes d'apprentissage cooperatif, et particulierement celle de la classe Jigsaw. L'A decrit ici les principes de base de cette methode, qui permet la participations et la responsabilisation de tous dans des groupes restreints, comme le demontre le succes de cette forme d'apprentissage aupres des etudiants
Improved Linear Discrimination using Time-Frequency Dictionaries

ABSTRACT We consider linear discriminant analysis in the setting where the objects (signals/ images) have many di-mensions (samples! pixels) and there are relatively few training samples. We discuss ways that time frequencydictionaries can be used to adaptively select a small set of derived features which lead to improved misclassificationrates.Key Words and Phrases: Linear Discriminant Analysis, Discrimination and Classification, Adaptive Sta-tistical Estimation, Time-Frequency Analysis, Wavelets, Wavelet Packets. Cosine Packets, Matching Pursuit. 1 LINEAR DISCRIMINANT ANALYSIS 1 . 1 Review of the Classical Setting Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA), developed by Fisher in 1936, is perhaps the best known technique forclassifying an observation of unknown class membership into one of two populations on the basis of predictors( that is, covariates, or features) . Fisher also had interest in classification into one of several populations, asubject developed further by C.R. Rao'415. It happens frequently in the literature that "classification" and
Objective monitoring of physical activity in overweight and obese populations

Abstract Background: Overweight and obesity are significant public health concerns in the United States as well as worldwide. Physical activity is consistently recommended as an important lifestyle behaviour in the treatment of overweight and obesity. Objective monitoring of physical activity using portable devices may provide an enhanced understanding of the role of physical activity in body weight regulation, and these devices may prove to be effective intervention tools. Objectives: The purpose of this manuscript is to provide an overview of the effect of physical activity as a treatment modality for overweight and obesity. Moreover, this will address the methods of objective monitoring of physical activity and related energy expenditure, along with consideration of these technologies within the context of intervention programs for weight loss. Major findings: Physical activity without a reduction in energy intake appears to result in weight loss ranging from 1–3 kg. Portable multisensor devices have b...
Empirical Correlates of Infrequently Occurring MMPI Code Types.

Les profils MMPI de 726 personnes ayant participe a un stage de trois jours sur les vocations religieuses organise par un centre occumenique de conseil psychologique, ont ete recueillis de 1977 a fin 1980. La presente etude porte simplement sur 113 sujets (100 hommes et 13 femmes) ayant genere des types de reponses cataloguees comme peu frequentes dans les echantillonnages habituels. Dans ce groupe 73% des membres ont ete ordonnes pretres et le reste des participants etait constitue de seminaristes en attente d'ordination
Pressure Swing Adsorption for a System with a Freundlich Isotherm

An analytical expression is obtained for the equilibrium relationship between the enrichment factor of the product stream and the ratio of the pressure in the feed stream to that in the product stream for a pressure-swing-adsorption system with a Freundlich isotherm. The enrichment factor is the ratio of the mole fraction of the adsorbate in the product gas stream to that in the feed gas stream. The enrichment factor increases with increasing pressure ratio in a manner similar to that for a system with a linear isotherm. The nonlinearity of the Freundlich isotherm does not result in a significant reduction in the enrichment factor.
On the Elastic and Thermodynamic Properties of Transition Metal Carbides

Values of the Debye temperature,θE, for a number of refractory carbides were calculated from elastic constant data and then compared with those of the Debye temperature,θD, as derived from low-temperatureCP data. It is found that an apparent discrepancy existed in the literature between the values ofθE andθD for these carbides. However, when the same units are used, agreement of 10 pct or better between the values ofθE andθD is found for all the carbides with the exception of MoC1/2. A discrepancy of 10 pct is reasonable based on an analysis of both the experimental and theoretical difficulties associated with the evaluation ofθE and θD for this class of materials. All the elastic constant data used were taken from the literature. Values ofCP for TiC, HfC, and WC were measured in the present study from 1.5° to 15°K. These values in addition to the literature data were used in derivingθD values. A correlation of the bulk modulus with interatomic spacing is presented for these refractory carbides. Based on this correlation, the bonding forces responsible for the cohesion of this class of materials are discussed.
Analysis of re-replication from deregulated origin licensing by DNA fiber spreading

A major challenge each human cell-division cycle is to ensure that DNA replication origins do not initiate more than once, a phenomenon known as re-replication. Acute deregulation of replication control ultimately causes extensive DNA damage, cell-cycle checkpoint activation and cell death whereas moderate deregulation promotes genome instability and tumorigenesis. In the absence of detectable increases in cellular DNA content however, it has been difficult to directly demonstrate re-replication or to determine if the ability to re-replicate is restricted to a particular cell-cycle phase. Using an adaptation of DNA fiber spreading we report the direct detection of re-replication on single DNA molecules from human chromosomes. Using this method we demonstrate substantial re-replication within 1 h of S phase entry in cells overproducing the replication factor, Cdt1. Moreover, a comparison of the HeLa cancer cell line to untransformed fibroblasts suggests that HeLa cells produce replication signals consistent with low-level re-replication in otherwise unperturbed cell cycles. Re-replication after depletion of the Cdt1 inhibitor, geminin, in an untransformed fibroblast cell line is undetectable by standard assays but readily quantifiable by DNA fiber spreading analysis. Direct evaluation of re-replicated DNA molecules will promote increased understanding of events that promote or perturb genome stability.
High mobility of carboxyl-terminal region of bacterial chemotaxis phosphatase CheZ is diminished upon binding divalent cation or CheY-P substrate.

In Escherichia coli chemotaxis, the CheZ phosphatase catalyzes the removal of the phosphoryl group from the signaling molecule, CheY. The cocrystal structure of CheZ with CheY·BeF3-·Mg2+ (a stable analogue of CheY-P) revealed that CheZ is a homodimer with a multidomain, nonglobular structure. To explore the effects of CheZ/CheY complex formation on CheZ structure, the rotational dynamics of the different structural domains of CheZ [the four-helix bundle, the N-terminal helix, the C-terminal helix, and the putative disordered linker between the C-terminal helix and the bundle] were evaluated. To monitor dynamics of the different regions, fluorescein probes were covalently attached at various locations on CheZ through reaction with engineered cysteine residues and the rotational behavior of the fluoresceinated derivatives were assessed using steady state fluorescence anisotropy. Anisotropy measurements at various solution viscosities (Perrin plot analysis) demonstrated large differences in global rotational...
Student Satisfaction Guarantees: An Empirical Examination of Attitudes, Antecedents, and Consequences:

In guaranteeing the satisfaction of undergraduate students with the instructor’s performance, Gremler and McCollough in previous studies reported that undergraduate studentsgen erally approve of th...
Advances in the biology of sporozoa.

Progress in the understanding of the sporozoa stemmed from new concepts and new measurements, often using refined techniques. New concepts developed from linking knowledge about the cyst-related transmission of Toxoplasma to oocyst-related transmission of the coccidia. It is now apparent that both oocyst and tissue cyst transmission occur in Toxoplasma, Sarcocystis, Hammondia n.g., Isospora and perhaps Atoxoplasma. It is likely that we know the complete cycles of Toxoplasma and Sarcocystis and some progress has been made towards understanding those of Besnoitia and Frenkelia. Our present knowledge is sufficient to propose a new classification of some of the higher coccidia (Table 5), and to devise keys for the determination of cysts and oocysts (Tables 2, 4). Additional terminology is listed (Table 1).
Fluorescence Lifetime Spectroscopy and Imaging: Principles and Applications in Biomedical Diagnostics

The combination of spectroscopy and microscopy has provided the researcher and the clinician with a variety of optical devices that are both useful and prevalent in both the laboratory and the clinic. Typically, spectroscopic studies were based on intensity measurements. The absorption spectrum, emission spectrum, anisotropy, and the fluorescence lifetime were measured. Biophysicists and later cell biologists began to use fluorescent molecules to investigate the structure and the function of biological molecules such as antibodies and proteins. Later, more complex molecular assemblies such as cell membranes or the Golgi apparatus were investigated using fluorescence microscopy. Then these techniques were applied to tissues and organisms, and finally to in vivo human studies, such as the skin, the eye, and the heart.
A constitutive theory for metallic glasses at high homologous temperatures

Abstract The elastic–viscoplastic constitutive theory of Anand and Su [Anand L, Su C. J Mech Phys Solids 2005;53:1362] for metallic glasses has been extended to the high homologous temperature regime. The constitutive equations appearing in the theory have been specialized to model the response of metallic glasses in the temperature range 0.7ϑg ⪅ ϑ ⪅ ϑg and strain rate range [10−5, 10−2] s−1. The material parameters appearing in the theory have been estimated for the metallic glass Pd40Ni40P20 from the experimental data of De Hey et al. [De Hey P, Sietsma J, Van Den Beukel A. Acta Mater 1998;46:5873]. The model is shown to capture the major features of the stress–strain response, and the evolution of an order-parameter for this metallic glass. In particular, the phenomena of stress overshoot and strain softening in monotonic experiments at a given strain rate and temperature, as well as strain rate history effects in experiments involving strain rate increments and decrements, are shown to be nicely reproduced by the model.
Statistical Error in Absorption Experiments

In certain exponential absorption experiments, notably measurements of cross sections by transmission, it is important to achieve minimum statistical error in a limited time or to minimize the counting time required to measure the absorption coefficient with a preassigned accuracy. The conditions required to attain these ends, i.e., the geometry for optimum transmission, and the best apportionment of counting times among the incident and transmitted beams and background, have been investigated for a wide range of relative backgrounds (${10}^{\ensuremath{-}3}$ to ${10}^{2}$), and for two geometries: I. Beam area fixed, absorber thickness alone is varied. II. Beam area and absorber thickness are both disposable parameters, while the total amount of absorber intercepting the beam remains fixed. In both cases the incident flux density and the background rate are assumed constant. The optimum transmissions are shown to be, in general, considerably smaller than those commonly used in absorption experiments. Thus, in Case I, a useful rule is to employ a transmission of about 0.1 for low backgrounds, 0.2 for moderate backgrounds, and 0.3 for high backgrounds. The following have also been determined: (a) minimum statistical error for a given total counting time, (b) statistical error and the best distribution of counting times for non-optimum geometry, and (c) sensitivity of the accuracy or total counting time to deviations from optimum transmission.
High molecular weight hydrocarbons in Gulf of Mexico continental slope sediments

Sediments on the Gulf of Mexico continental slope contain a mixture of terrigenous, petroleum and planktonic hydrocarbons. The relative amount of these three inputs varies as a function of location, water depth, and time of sampling. The hydrocarbon concentrations measured are generally lower than those previously reported for shelf and coastal Gulf of Mexico sediments. The influence of land-derived material decreases from the central to the western to the eastern Gulf of Mexico. Petroleum inputs are measurable at all sites sampled. Natural seepage was considered to be a significant source of hydrocarbons to slope sediments. Hydrocarbon concentrations vary by 1–2 orders of magnitude along a given isobath due to changes in sediment texture and hydrocarbon inputs. Variability along an isobath is as great if not greater than that seen over a depth range of 300–3000 m along a single transect. In general, the highest aliphatic hydrocarbon concentrations are associated with the more clayish/organic-rich sediments. Aromatic hydrocarbons are below gas chromatographic detection limits at all sites (<5 ppb), but their presence is inferred from spectrofluorescence analyses, confirming the presence of petroleum-related hydrocarbons at all sites.
The role of relationships in labor markets for the popular arts and its impact on product quality

Abstract While utilizing social networks is common in labor markets and may benefit both firms and laborers, social networks are argued to be unusually important in the popular arts. Prior work in economics on the role of relationships in labor markets has generally focused on the benefits and not the costs. This paper takes a different approach by focusing on both costs and benefits, by examining a specific market where relationships are particularly important. This paper argues that in addition to reducing diversity and creating inherent inequalities, excessive reliance on networks can lead to higher agency costs and lower product quality.
Longitudinal evaluation using the Environmental Deprivation Scale-questionnaire with felons.

Summary.-The status of 32 felons was examined two years after they had completed the Environmental Deprivation Scale. Those who violated parole or probation scored significantly differently from those who remained on parole or probation or had been released. The questionnaire score could be helpful to idenufy which felons require additional supervision or treatment. Larger samples and extended evaluation are necessary for firm conclusions. This study followed 32 felons two years after they had been given the Environmental Deprivation Scale (1). The conceptuahzation for this scale (2) was that lack of psychological support in life reflected low functioning, which was antecedent to maladaptive behavior. The score provides an assessment of one's needs and idendies salient factors for treaunent. To enhance the utility of the scale, a questionnaire was developed and its score correlated .89 with the score obtained in the standard interview (1) wherein two independent researchers scored each felon's test and interrater reliability was .97. All felons were on parole or probation when the test was administered. The current study compared the mean for the two raters with the felons' court determined status after two years. The hypothesis was that the test scores for those violating parole or probation would be significantly higher than those remaining on parole or who had completed a sentence. Six of the 32 felons had had parole or revoked for violation of rules or commission of a new crime. Twelve felons remained active on parole or probation and the remaining 14 had been released at the end of the sentence or were conditionally released by the court. A t test comparing the means of violators and a combination of those successfully on parole or probation or who had been released was significant (t = 1.91, p< .05). Scores obtained earlier from those who had violated parole or probation were significantly higher (ranging from 5 to 13; M=9.0, SD=3.0) than for those on active and or released status (range 2 to 13.5; M= 6.5. SD=2.9). This result provided some validity for the Environmental Deprivation ScaleQuestionnaire in distinguishing those most in need of supervision or treatment. Larger samples and extended follow-up evaluation are required for firm conclusions.
Favorability Ratings of MMPI Sex Items: Stimulus Pull or Social Interaction Effects?

Summary This study examined the influence of sex of subject, sex of experimenter, and need for approval on Ss' perception of the sex items of the MMPI. Each of the 32 male and 32 female Ss was seen individually by one of 4 male and 4 female Es who instructed the S to rate the 16 items on a five-point favorability continuum. The results are consistent with earlier findings that opposite-sexed E-S dyads are more likely to produce conventional, socially desirable responses than same-sexed dyads. The study also revealed that Ss with a high need for approval are more cautious and guarded in their evaluation of “negative” and “positive” sex items than Ss with a low need for approval. The overriding determinant of the favorability ratings, however, is the stimulus pull of the items themselves.
Kinetics of alachlor and atrazine biotransformation under various electron acceptor conditions

Second-order rate constants were developed for the biotransformation of the herbicides atrazine and alachlor under aerobic, nitrate-reducing, sulfate-reducing, and methanogenic conditions. Batch-reactor techniques were used, with seed cultures taken from acclimated biofilm columns. The reactors were fed acetate as a primary substrate. Pesticide biotransformation appeared to depend upon the continued presence of the primary substrate, indicating co-metabolic transformations. All four electron acceptor conditions tested resulted in some biotransformation of both pesticides. Rate constants for alachlor ranged from 6.25 × 10−5 to 1.60 × 10−4 L/mg volatile suspended solids (VSS)·h, with the highest rate constant occurring under sulfate-reducing conditions, and the lowest under methanogenic conditions. Rate constants for atrazine ranged from 1.04 × 10−5 to 3.32 × 10−5 L/mg VSS·h, although differences among the four electron acceptor conditions were not statistically significant.
Tooth injury increases expression of the cold sensitive TRP channel TRPA1 in trigeminal neurons.

Abstract Objective Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels, a family of structurally related proteins have been implicated in the sensation of pain and hyperalgesia caused by exogenous and endogenous agonists, as well as touch, pH, and temperature. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of tooth injury on the expression of the cold sensitive channel TRPA1, in the trigeminal ganglion, the primary source of sensory and nociceptive innervation of teeth. Design We analyzed TRPA1 expression in a rodent model of tooth injury, by Western blot analyses of proteins extracted from trigeminal ganglia. Results We found that TRPA1 was selectively increased in trigeminal ganglia innervating injured teeth when compared to TRPA1 expression in trigeminal ganglia innervating healthy teeth. Conclusions Our results provide the first evidence of increased expression of a cold-sensitive TRP channel in trigeminal ganglia after pulp exposure, and are consistent with the possibility that increased expression and function of TRPA1 in trigeminal neurons contributes to hyperalgesia and allodynia following tooth injury.
Abstract C93: Liver nonparenchymal cells drive metastatic breast cancer survival but fail to initiate mesenchymal to epithelial reversion

Nearly half of breast cancer metastases will become clinically evident 5 or more years after the cancer was seemingly ablated. This implies that metastatic cancer cells survived over this extended timeframe without emerging as detectable nodules. Breast cancer metastatic dormancy has yet to be universally defined, and is not well understood as a potential means by which clinically evident metastases emerge after being undetected for years (or decades) from the primary tumor diagnosis. Various mechanistic and microenvironmental factors may work independently, collaboratively (or both) in order to allow a dormant metastatic breast cancer cell (or small cluster) to survive long term. At least one tumor dormancy hallmark is likely required: that of E-cadherin re-expression in order to form heterotypic connections between the carcinoma cells and the liver parenchyma. This re-expression is known as the mesenchymal-to-epithelial-reverting-transition (MErT). This re-expression provides not only survival signals to the breast cancer cells but may also establish cell polarity and protection from autocrine signaling (or extracellular factors) that otherwise may prompt the breast cancer cells to initiate metastatic outgrowth. The purpose of this study was to determine whether non-parenchymal liver cells (NPC) contribute to metastatic competency, initiate mesenchymal to epithelial reverting transition (MErT), and trigger metastatic dormancy. We co-cultured human or rat hepatic isolations with highly metastatic human immortalized breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231). The hepatocytes, non-parenchymal hepatic supernatant, and liver sinusoidal endothelial cell enriched populations were independently cultured with the breast cancer cells in standard monolayer cultures. Because MDA-MB-231 cells do not survive in the hepatocyte culture media alone, we were able to assess the unique properties imparted by the experimental cultures. Confocal immunofluorescent imaging for proliferation and epithelial markers revealed a mesenchymal phenotypic transition only in the hepatocyte/breast cancer cultures. Interestingly the NPC/breast cancer co-cultures promoted cancer cell proliferation (but lower than with hepatocytes included) but did not impart carcinoma epithelial reversion. The liver sinusoidal endothelial cell (LSEC)-enriched co-cultures exhibited much lower breast cancer cell proliferation hinting toward a possible dormancy, though E-cadherin reversion was not detected. These data suggest that perturbations of the parenchymal and non-parenchymal cell ratios in the liver metastatic microenvironment may contribute to metastatic dormancy initiation or stability. Citation Format: Donald P. Taylor, Alan Wells. Liver nonparenchymal cells drive metastatic breast cancer survival but fail to initiate mesenchymal to epithelial reversion. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Tumor Invasion and Metastasis; Jan 20-23, 2013; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(3 Suppl):Abstract nr C93.
Identification of Direct Thyroid Hormone Response Genes Reveals the Earliest Gene Regulation Programs during Frog Metamorphosis

Thyroid hormone (T3) is essential for normal development and organ function throughout vertebrates. Its effects are mainly mediated through transcriptional regulation by T3 receptor (TR). The identification and characterization of the immediate early, direct target genes are thus of critical importance in understanding the molecular pathways induced by T3. Unfortunately, this has been hampered by the difficulty to study gene regulation by T3 in uterus-enclosed mammalian embryos. Here we used Xenopus metamorphosis as a model for vertebrate postembryonic development to identify direct T3 response genes in vivo. We took advantage of the ability to easily induce metamorphosis with physiological levels of T3 and to carry out microarray analysis in Xenopus laevis and genome-wide sequence analysis in Xenopus tropicalis. This allowed us to identify 188 up-regulated and 249 down-regulated genes by T3 in the absence of new protein synthesis in whole animals. We further provide evidence to show that these genes contain functional TREs that are bound by TR in tadpoles and that their promoters are regulated by TR in vivo. More importantly, gene ontology analysis showed that the direct up-regulated genes are enriched in categories important for transcriptional regulation and protein degradation-dependent signaling processes but not DNA replication. Our findings thus revealed the existence of interesting pathways induced by T3 at the earliest step of metamorphosis.
Improving write operations in MLC phase change memory

Phase change memory (PCM) recently has emerged as a promising technology to meet the fast growing demand for large capacity memory in modern computer systems. In particular, multi-level cell (MLC) PCM that stores multiple bits in a single cell, offers high density with low per-byte fabrication cost. However, despite many advantages, such as good scalability and low leakage, PCM suffers from exceptionally slow write operations, which makes it challenging to be integrated in the memory hiearchy. In this paper, we propose architectural innovations to improve the access time of MLC PCM. Due to cell process variation, composition fluctuation and the relatively small differences among resistance levels, MLC PCM typically employs an iterative write scheme to achieve precise control, which suffers from large write access latency. To address this issue, we propose write truncation (WT) to reduce the number of write iterations with the assistance of an extra error correction code (ECC). We also propose form switch (FS) to reduce the storage overhead of the ECC. By storing highly compressible lines in SLC form, FS improves read latency as well. Our experimental results show that WT and FS improve the effective write/read latency by 57%/28% respectively, and achieve 26% performance improvement over the state of the art.
NIR laser tissue welding of in vitro porcine cornea and sclera tissue.

Background and Objective The objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that an near infrared (NIR) laser system (1,455 nm) in combination with a motorized translational stage to control the position and speed of the laser beam and a shutter to control the laser exposure to the tissue being welded could be used to successfully weld ocular tissues. Study Design/Materials and Methods Seventy-five porcine corneas and 23 porcine scleral tissues were welded in vitro in this study. The welded tissues were examined using histopathology and tensile strength analysis. Eight different welding conditions were analyzed for porcine cornea and one for sclera tissues. The tensile strength of the welded groups was compared to a sutured cornea control group. Results The NIR laser welding system provides strong, full thickness welds and does not require the use of extrinsic dyes, chromophores, or solders. Mean weld strengths of 0.15–0.45 kg/cm2 were obtained for the cornea and 1.01 kg/cm2 for sclera welds. The native H2O in the ocular tissue serves as an absorber of the 1,455 nm radiation and helps to induce the welds. Conclusions We conclude that an NIR laser system using an optimal laser radiation wavelength of 1,455 nm can effectively weld cornea and sclera tissue and that this laser tissue welding (LTW) methodology typically causes minimal disruption of tissue, and thus, avoids opacities and irregularities in the tissue which may result in decreased visual acuity. The optimization of a laser welding system that leads to a strong full thickness tissue bond without tissue destruction, an instant seal that promotes wound healing, and the absence of a continued presence of a foreign substance like a suture, is of considerable importance to the ophthalmology medical community. This need is especially apparent with respect to corneal transplantation and fixing the position of corneal flaps in Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK), a laser procedure used to permanently change the shape of the cornea. Lasers Surg. Med. 35:293–303, 2004. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Imaging of ATP membrane transport with dual micro-disk electrodes and scanning electrochemical microscopy

Extracellular adenosine-5'-triphosphate (ATP) is involved in a variety of relevant regulatory mechanisms at a cellular level and has therefore been focus of extensive research. One of the major challenges associated with measuring this key regulatory analyte is the ability to detect and localize extracellular ATP with sufficient spatial and temporal resolution in physiological environments. In this study, scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) utilizing an amperometric micro-biosensor based on co-immobilization of the enzymes glucose oxidase and hexokinase is applied for imaging ATP transport through a porous polycarbonate membrane under physiologically relevant conditions. The enzymatic biosensor operates on competitive consumption of the substrate glucose between the immobilized enzymes glucose oxidase and hexokinase involving ATP as a co-substrate. Quantitative determination of the ATP concentration is based on a linear correlation between the glucose consumption and the ATP level. Integration of the amperometric ATP micro-biosensor into a dual micro-disk electrode configuration is achieved by immobilizing the enzymes at one of the micro-disk electrodes while the second disk serves as an unmodified amperometric probe for controlled positioning of the micro-biosensor in close proximity to the sample surface enabling quantification of the obtained current signal.
Developing and Implementing a Collaborative Teaching Innovation in Introductory Chemistry from the Perspective of an Undergraduate Student

At present, many faculty members in chemistry are calling for reform in teaching. Efforts have been made to garner student interest in chemistry and to help students better understand the material. Thus far, these efforts have been championed by teachers. However, collaboration between faculty and students may prove an even better way of addressing current issues in chemical education. The Karen T. Romer Undergraduate Teaching and Research Award (UTRA) at Brown University offers students the opportunity to work with professors to improve the curriculum for existing courses. This unique program has fostered the student–teacher collaboration necessary to improve the first-year chemistry laboratory course at Brown University and may provide a promising model for teaching innovation at other academic institutions. This commentary is written from the perspective of an UTRA student.
Stark effect (electroabsorption) spectroscopy of photosynthetic reaction centers at 1.5K: Evidence that the special pair has a large excited-state polarizability

Abstract The Stark effect or electroabsorption spectrum of the Qy transition of the special pair, P, of Rb. sphaeroides reaction centers has been measured at 1.5 K in frozen glycerol/buffer glasses. Under these conditions, inhomogeneous broadening of the absorption band is minimized, and some structure is resolved in the absorption and Stark effect spectra. As a result it is possible to greatly refine earlier analyses of Stark spectra which were obtained at higher temperatures in poly(vinyl alcohol) films. In addition to the substantial change in dipole moment which has been documented previously, the new data provide evidence for a substantial change in polarizability associated with the lowest electronic transition of P. It has generally been assumed that the dipolar character of ∗P results from mixing with charge-transfer states. It is shown that as a consequence of this same interaction, ∗P should be highly polarizable, consistent with the Stark data. This leads to the hypothesis that the observed substantial change in dipole moment is induced by the matrix electrostatic field in the vicinity of P. In this sense, the properties of ∗P are quite similar to those of carotenoid excited states in ordered protein matrices (Gottfried et al., Science (1991) 251, 662–665; Biochim. Biophys. Acta (1991) 1059, 76–90). The specific geometric arrangement of bacteriochlorophylls in the bacterial special pair results in a highly anisotropic excited-state polarizability which is very sensitive to environmental perturbation. The observed polarizability of ∗P can be used to estimate a likely lower limit for the matrix electrostatic field in the reaction center (> 1.2 · 106 V/cm). It is expected that such a large electrostatic field plays an important role in determining the kinetics and thermodynamics of the initial electron transfer steps in photosynthesis.
Scattering functions of Platonic solids

The single-particle small-angle scattering properties of five Platonic solids, including the tetrahedron, hexahedron, octahedron, dodecahedron and icosahedron, are systematically investigated. For each given geometry, the Debye spatial autocorrelation function, pair distance distribution function and intraparticle structure factor (form factor) are calculated and compared with the corresponding scattering function of a spherical reference system. From the theoretical models, the empirical relationship between the dodecahedral and icosahedral structural characteristics and those of the equivalent spheres is found. Moreover, the single-particle scattering properties of icosahedral and spherical shells with identical volume are investigated, and the prospect of using different data analysis approaches to explore their structural differences is presented and discussed.
Inhibition of a mitotic motor protein: where, how, and conformational consequences

We report here the first inhibitor-bound structure of a mitotic motor protein. The 1.9 {angstrom} resolution structure of the motor domain of KSP, bound with the small molecule monastrol and Mg{sup 2+} {center_dot} ADP, reveals that monastrol confers inhibition by 'induced-fitting' onto the protein some 12 {angstrom} away from the catalytic center of the enzyme, resulting in the creation of a previously non-existing binding pocket. The structure provides new insights into the biochemical and mechanical mechanisms of the mitotic motor domain. Inhibition of KSP provides a novel mechanism to arrest mitotic spindle formation, a target of several approved and investigative anti-cancer agents. The structural information gleaned from this novel pocket offers a new angle for the design of anti-mitotic agents.
Vth International Symposium on Sjögren’s Syndrome Clinical Aspects and Therapy

There is increasing awareness that sicca syndrome can lead to ocular, oral and systemic complications. However, a wide variety of pathogenetic processes may lead to the same end result of diminished glandular secretion. Recognition of these different etiologies will lead to improved therapies. On the one hand, an active inflammatory/autoimmune process may respond to immunomodulatory drugs. On the other hands, processes that predominanly involve “neuroendocrine” dysfunction (unrelated to immune activity) of the gland will require a different approach.
Supercritical quasi-conduction states in stochastic Rayleigh–Bénard convection

Abstract We study the Rayleigh–Benard stability problem for a fluid confined within a square enclosure subject to random perturbations in the temperature distribution at both the horizontal walls. These temperature perturbations are assumed to be non-uniform Gaussian random processes satisfying a prescribed correlation function. By using an accurate Monte Carlo method we obtain stochastic bifurcation diagrams for the Nusselt number near the classical onset of convective instability. These diagrams show that random perturbations render the bifurcation process to convection imperfect, in agreement with known results. In particular, the pure conduction state does no longer exist, being replaced by a quasi-conduction regime. We have observed subcritical and nearly supercritical quasi-conduction stable states within the range of Rayleigh numbers Ra = 0 – 4000 . This suggests that random perturbations in the temperature distribution at the horizontal walls of the cavity can extend the range of stability of quasi-conduction states beyond the classical bifurcation point Ra c = 2585.02 . Analysis of the stochastic bifurcation diagrams shows the presence of a stochastic drift phenomenon in the heat transfer coefficient, especially in the transcritical region. Such stochastic drift is investigated further by means of a sensitivity analysis based on functional ANOVA decomposition.
Manipulating glutathione- S -transferases may prevent the development of tolerance to nitroglycerin

Tolerance to clinically important organic nitrates such as nitroglycerin (NTG) has been experimentally related to endothelial dysfunction and vascular oxidative stress. Anti-oxidant enzymes such as the glutathione-S-transferases (GSTs) could potentially play a protective role in NTG tolerance. Our previous work showed that an α-class glutathione-S-transferase (GSTA4-4) defends against oxidative damage in the vascular wall; therefore, we asked whether overexpression of GSTA4-4 in endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells might alter the development of tolerance to NTG. Stable transfections of mouse pancreatic islet endothelial cells (MS1) with cDNA of mGSTA4-4, and human fetal aortic vascular msmooth muscle cells (FLTR) with cDNA of hGSTA4-4 were established. TT cytotoxicity, apoptosis, nitric oxide (NO) synthases, both endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) and inducible NO synthase (iNOS) and cyclic guanosine mono-phosphate (cGMP) were measured. Endothelial cells overexpressing mGSTA4-4, and smooth muscle cells overexpressing hGSTA4-4 were more resistant to cytotoxic injury by NTG, assessed at 24 h (p<0.05). In ooth endothelial and smooth muscle cells, NTG-induced apoptosis was inhibited by GST overexpression. Following dosing in a relevant tolerance-inducing NTG protocol, we found that GSTA4-4-overexpressing cells demonstrated significant downregulation of NOS enzymes; NO release, unchanged by the tolerance protocol in both wild-type and vector-transfected cells, was augmented in GST-overexpressing cells (p<0.01); cGMP levels in control cells fell, whereas it rose in GSTA4-4 overexpressing cells (p<0.05). Our results demonstrate that overexpression of GST isozymes can protect endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells against oxidative stress associated with NTG, and markedly alter cellular responses to repeated doses, or tolerance. By manipulating GSTs, physiological tolerance to NTG may be diminished or eliminated.
Neonatal Paracorporeal Lung Assist Device for Respiratory Failure

Neonates who experience respiratory failure despite maximal ventilatory support have only extracorporeal membrane oxygenation as a rescue therapy, but it has very poor outcomes as a bridge to transplantation. A pumpless lung-assist device has been used in adults as a bridge to lung transplantation. An alternative membrane oxygenator, the Quadrox iD, is a suitable size for neonatal blood flow. Here we report the use of the Quadrox iD membrane oxygenator with central cannulation as a paracorporeal respiratory support therapy for a neonate with alveolar capillary dysplasia awaiting lung transplantation.
EXPERIMENTAL DATA ON NEW RESONANCES

The present state of the experimental evidence for elementary particle resonances, other than the pion-nucleon resonances, is presented. The properties of the four pion-hyperon resonances, as well as those of the K*, ρ, ω, and η mesons, are discussed. Emphasis is placed on the experimental determination of the spin, parity and G parity of the ω and η particles.
Eye-movement training for reading in patients with age-related macular degeneration.

PURPOSE. To determine whether training oculomotor control, without direct practice in reading sentences, could increase reading speed in patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD). METHODS. Sixteen patients with AMD participated in the study (age range, 65– 87 years; mean, 77). The training program consisted of a series of exercises that were designed to allow the patients to practice eye movements. At the beginning of training, the subjects practiced small horizontal saccades in response to cognitively easy stimuli (e.g., dots). The training then progressed to practicing larger eye movements and then to practicing saccades with single letters, pairs of letters, and three-letter words. Reading of sentences was practiced in only one exercise, during the last session of the 8-week training. RESULTS. The difference between average reading speeds before and after training was 24.7 wpm (difference between medians, 17.9 wpm). The increase in speed was statistically significant (Wilcoxon signed rank test 124.0, P 0.001). There was no significant relationship between change in maximum reading speed and ETDRS (Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study) acuity (r 0.14, P 0.76) or between change in maximum reading speed and age (r 0.25, P 0.45). CONCLUSIONS. The results indicate that a training curriculum that concentrates on eye-movement control can increase reading speed in patients with AMD. This finding is especially interesting, because the training involved little direct practice in reading sentences but instead concentrated on having subjects practice control of eye positions and eye movements. (Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2005;46:2886 –2896) DOI:
Model for the regulation of mRNA translation applied to haemoglobin synthesis.

A kinetic analysis of protein synthesis on ribosomes predicts that certain treatments which reduce the overall rate of polypeptide chain initiation wil inhibit translation preferentially of mRNAs with lower rate constants for polypeptide chain initiation. The effects of several inhibitors on α and β-globin synthesis by reticulocyte extracts agree with these predictions.
Ultrafast charging dynamics in a double-barrier structure in the presence of localized phonon modes

Abstract The temporal development of the electronic charge inside the quantum well of a double barrier structure due to an injected electron wave packet at the resonant energy E r in the presence of localized phonons is investigated numerically by directly solving the time dependent Schrodinger's equation. The temporal profiles of phonon assisted charge due to the injected wave packet at E r ±ħω are shown to be about 2 orders of magnitude smaller than the charge when the wave packet is incident resonantly at E r . It is found that the presence of symmetric and confined phonons reduce the probability of finding the electron in the quantum well while the effect of interface antisymmetric phonon mode on the probability is negligible.