cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Cellulosic Substrates for Removal of Pollutants from Aqueous Systems: A Review. Part 4. Dissolved Petrochemical Compounds

Dissolved petroleum-based compounds, e.g. solvents, pesticides, and chemical reagents such as phenolic compounds, can pose significant hazards to the health of humans and ecosystems when they are released to the environment. This review article considers research progress related to the biosorption and removal of such contaminants from water using cellulose-derived materials. The fact that cellulosic materials show promise in removing such sparingly soluble materials from water lends support to a hypothesis that lignocellulosic materials can be broad-spectrum adsorbents. Also, the hydrophobic character and sorption capabilities can be increased through thermal treatment and the preparation of activated carbons. As shown in many studies, the efficiency of uptake of various petrochemical products from water also can be increased by chemical treatments of the adsorbent. It appears that more widespread adoption of biosorption as a means of removing petroleum-based products from water has been limited by concerns about the used, loaded biosorbent. Disposal or regeneration options that need to be considered more in future research include enzymatic and biological treatments, taking advantage of the fact that the biosorbent material is able to collect, immobilize, and concentrate various contaminants in forms that are suited for a number of packed bed or batch-type degradative treatment systems.
Quantum area gate: experimental demonstration

Summary form only given. In quantum computing, the precise control of input variables used to initialize computational systems is vital for reliable system performance. A parameter that lends itself naturally to the preparation of coherent atomic dynamics used in computation is optical pulse area, i.e. time-integrated resonant Rabi frequency. It is therefore desirable to identify phenomena and demonstrate devices that provide the functionality that allows the controlled manipulation of this parameter. Here, we report the first observation of a novel phenomenon governing the pulse area transmission through an optical cavity containing atoms exhibiting ultraslow atomic decoherence.
Identification of novel loci affecting entry of Salmonella enteritidis into eukaryotic cells

Abstract There are an estimated 2 million cases of salmonellosis in the United States every year. Unlike the incidence of many infectious diseases, the incidence of salmonellosis in the United States and other developed countries has been rising steadily over the past 30 years, and the disease now accounts for 10 to 15% of all cases of acute gastroenteritis in the United States. The infecting organism is ingested and must traverse the intestinal epithelium to reach its preferred site for multiplication, the reticuloendothelial system. Despite several recent studies, the genetic basis of the invasion process is poorly understood. An emerging theme from these studies is that wild-type Salmonella organisms probably have several chromosomal loci that are required for the most efficient level of invasion. In this study, we have identified and characterized 13 TnphoA insertion mutants of Salmonella enteritidis CDC5 that exhibit altered invasion phenotypes. The mutants were identified by screening a bank of TnphoA insertions in S. enteritidis CDC5str for their invasion phenotype in three tissue culture cell lines (HEp-2, CHO, and MDCK). These 13 mutants were separated into six classes based on their invasive phenotypes in the tissue culture cell lines. Several mutants were defective for entry of some cell lines but not for others, while two mutants (SM6 and SM7) were defective for entry into all three tissue culture cell lines. This suggests that Salmonella spp. may express more than one invasion pathway. Southern analysis and chromosomal mapping indicated that as many as nine chromosomal loci may contribute to the invasion phenotype. It is becoming clear that the invasive phenotype of Salmonella spp. is multifactorial and more complex than that of some other invasive members of the family Enterobacteriaceae.
A bacterial group II intron encoding reverse transcriptase, maturase, and DNA endonuclease activities: biochemical demonstration of maturase activity and insertion of new genetic information within the intron

The Lactococcus lactis group II intron Ll.ltrB is similar to mobile yeast mtDNA group II introns, which encode reverse transcriptase, RNA maturase, and DNA endonuclease activities for site-specific DNA insertion. Here, we show that the Lactococcal intron can be expressed and spliced efficiently in Escherichia coli. The intron-encoded protein LtrA has reverse transcriptase and RNA maturase activities, with the latter activity shown both in vivo and in vitro, a first for any group II intron-encoded protein. As for the yeast mtDNA introns, the DNA endonuclease activity of the Lactococcal intron is associated with RNP particles containing both the intron-encoded protein and the excised intron RNA. Also, the intron RNA cleaves the sense-strand of the recipient DNA by a reverse splicing reaction, whereas the intron-encoded protein cleaves the antisense strand. The Lactococcal intron endonuclease can be obtained in large quantities by coexpression of the LtrA protein with the intron RNA in E. coli or reconstituted in vitro by incubating the expressed LtrA protein with in vitro-synthesized intron RNA. Furthermore, the specificity of the endonuclease and reverse splicing reactions can be changed predictably by modifying the RNA component. Expression in E. coli facilitates the use of group II introns for the targeting of specific foreign sequences to a desired site in DNA.
A low-frequency model for E-field and B-field coupling into a folded antenna with two gaps

Electric field coupling into electrically small monopoles/dipoles and magnetic field coupling into electrically small loop antennas has been investigated extensively due to their applicability to a wide range of applications. However, under certain conditions electrically small folded antenna structures exist in which both coupling mechanisms must be included simultaneously in order to perform an accurate system analysis. In this paper we present a low frequency model that includes both electric and magnetic field coupling simultaneously for a folded antenna with two gaps. Values for a circuit model are found using an electrostatic finite element code and a full wave frequency domain finite element code. The circuit model is then validated by a full wave finite difference time domain code. For the time domain analysis the antenna structure is excited by fields from a lightning pulse. The time domain simulation has excellent agreement with the circuit model that is presented.
Introduction to “In Focus: Global Change and Adaptation in Local Places”

ABSTRACT In recognition of unavoidable changes that human actions are producing in our environment, the term adaptation has become ubiquitous in the environmental and climate-change literature. Human adaptation is a field with a significant history in anthropology, yet anthropological contributions to the burgeoning field of climate change remain limited. This “In Focus” section presents studies of local adaptations to climate variation and change. Each is concerned with current environmental challenges and future environmental change, and each study is placed within a wider context that includes processes of globalization and integration into market economies, formal and informal institutions, and disasters. These studies highlight the challenges involved in understanding complex adaptations under conditions of stress. They also illustrate how anthropologists engage the larger climate-change and human-adaptation discussions and enhance our ability to respond to the challenges of a changing environment.
Expression of mutant human DISC1 in mice supports abnormalities in differentiation of oligodendrocytes

Abnormalities in oligodendrocyte (OLG) differentiation and OLG gene expression deficit have been described in schizophrenia (SZ). Recent studies revealed a critical requirement for Disrupted-in-Schizophrenia 1 (DISC1) in neural development. Transgenic mice with forebrain restricted expression of mutant human DISC1 (ΔhDISC1) are characterized by neuroanatomical and behavioral abnormalities reminiscent of some features of SZ. We sought to determine whether the expression of ΔhDISC1 may influence the development of OLGs in this mouse model. OLG- and cell cycle-associated gene and protein expression were characterized in the forebrain of ΔhDISC1 mice during different stages of neurodevelopment (E15 and P1 days) and in adulthood. The results suggest that the expression of ΔhDISC1 exerts a significant influence on oligodendrocyte differentiation and function, evidenced by premature OLG differentiation and increased proliferation of their progenitors. Additional findings showed that neuregulin 1 and its receptors may be contributing factors to the observed upregulation of OLG genes. Thus, OLG function may be perturbed by mutant hDISC1 in a model system that provides new avenues for studying aspects of the pathogenesis of SZ.
Adsorption mediated decrease in the biodegradation rate of organic compounds

A negative correlation between adsorption of low molecular weight organic acids and sugars onto a hydroxyapatite surface and biodegradation rates of the compounds in the presence of the mineral was observed. Qualitatively, the effect was the same whether the organics were equilibrated with the surface prior to the addition of organisms or the organisms were preattached to the surface. Glucose, acetic acid, succinic acid, glutamic acid, and citric acid showed equilibrium adsorption values ranging from 0–94% from a 2μM solution. Changes in both respiration and assimilation of the substrates in the presence of hydroxyapatite were inversely correlated with adsorption.
Observation of a 100-MHz frequency variation across the output of a frequency-doubled injection-seeded unstable-resonator Q-switched Nd:YAG laser

We report high-resolution measurements of the spatial variation of the optical frequency of an injection-seeded unstable-resonator Q-switched Nd:YAG laser. Images of the second harmonic taken through a molecular-iodine notch filter show frequency variations of as much as 100 MHz (second harmonic) between the center and the edge of the beam.
Strategic aspects of networking

The basic technical components of ‘information networking’ have been in place since the mid‐1970s, when the first generation online bibliographic services such as the INSPEC databases and MEDLINE, implemented on dial‐up hosts like Dialog and ESA changed the ways in which librarians approached bibliographic searching — at least in the better funded organizations. The peak of diversification and growth of the online bibliographic database probably came around 1988 when Williams reviewed the near‐exponential growth of new services and the extraordinary diversity of the sources which appeared to be viable. At about the same time, however, it was being pointed out that despite the excitement this was generating in libraries, it amounted to less than 15% of the European market in electronic information services, with data‐oriented financial services dominating the remainder. The share of the host‐based financial data services has probably subsequently grown — at the time of writing in August 1993, Reuters (a ma...
The role of Ca2+ in the process of cell invasion by intracellular parasites.

Abstract In order to replicate, many parasites must invade host cells. Changes in the intracellular Ca 2+ concentration ([Ca 2+ ] i ) of different parasites and tissue culture cells during their interaction have been studied. An increase in cytosolic Ca 2+ in Trypanosoma cruzi trypomastigotes occurs after association of the parasites with host cells. Ca 2+ mobilization in the host cells also takes place upon contact with T. cruzi trypomastigotes, Leishmania donovani amastigotes or Plasmodium falciparum merozoites. When Ca 2+ transients are prevented by intracellular Ca 2+ chelators, a decrease in parasite association to host cells is observed. This reveals the importance of [Ca 2+ ] i in the process of parasite-host cell interaction, as discussed here by Roberto Docampo and Silvia Moreno.
Organogenesis-stage cytochrome P450 isoforms: Utilization of PCR for detection of CYP1A1 mRNA in rat conceptal tissues

Abstract Utilizing the reverse transcriptase-linked polymerase chain reaction, we analyzed the capacity of three groups of rat conceptal tissues to express cytochrome P4501A1 (CYP1A1) mRNA during the dysmorphogenesis-sensitive stage of organogenesis. The visceral yolk sac, ectoplacental cone and embryo proper each were investigated on day 12 of gestation with and without prior exposure in utero to 3-methylcholanthrene as inducing agent. With two sets of discriminating oligonucleotide primers, definitive, reproducible signals were detectable only in tissues from 3-methylcholanthrene preexposed conceptuses. Signals of highest intensity were observed with visceral volk sac tissues and signals of lowest intensity were observed with tissues of the embryo per se. Specificities of the amplified cDNAs were verified using Southern blotting with hybridization to an internal oligonucleotide probe. The results indicate that organogenesis-stage conceptal tissues of the rat will express CYP1A1 mRNA in response to environmental transregulating agents.
Chemical transitions measured by Spectra and resolved using singular value decomposition

Abstract Shrager, R.I., 1986. Chemical transitions measured by spectra and resolved using singular value decomposition. Chemometrics and Intelligent Laboratory Systems,1: 59–70. A sequence of optical or other spectra, generated by overlapping chemical transitions, may be more easily analyzed after a data reduction step involving singular value decomposition (SVD). The method is described, and its development since 1965 is summarized. Finally, a new SVD-based method described, which corrects some theoretical and practical flaws in past methods.
Role of exoenzyme S in chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa lung infections.

Exoenzyme S is an extracellular ADP-ribosyltransferase enzyme produced byPseudomonas aeruginosa. Mutants ofPseudomonas aeruginosa deficient in this enzyme have been shown to have reduced virulence in infections of burned mice. The contribution of exoenzyme S to the pathogenesis of chronic lung infections with this organism was evaluated by examining the incidence of exoenzyme S production byPseudomonas aeruginosa strains isolated from cystic fibrosis patients and comparing an exoenzyme S deficient mutant and its exoenzyme S producing parent in a rat chronic lung infection model. Of 51 isolates examined, 43 % produced detectable levels of exoenzyme S. While both the exoenzyme S deficient mutant and its parent strain were equally capable of colonizing and persisting in rat lungs, the exoenzyme S producing parent elicited a greater degree of lung damage. These data suggest that exoenzyme S contributes to the pathogenesis of chronic lung infections.
Spin splitting of single 0D impurity states in semiconductor heterostructure Quantum Wells.

Zeeman splitting of the ground state of single impurities in the quantum well of a resonant tunneling heterostructure is reported. We determine the absolute magnitude of the effective magnetic spin splitting factor ${g}_{\ensuremath{\perp}}^{*}$ for a single impurity in a $44\AA{}$ ${\mathrm{Al}}_{0.27}{\mathrm{Ga}}_{0.73}\mathrm{As}/\mathrm{GaAs}/{\mathrm{Al}}_{0.27}{\mathrm{Ga}}_{0.73}\mathrm{As}$ quantum well to be 0.28 $\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}$ 0.02. This system also allows for independent measurement of the electron tunneling rates through the two potential barriers and estimation of the occupation probability of the impurity state in the quantum well.
The Putative Tumor Suppressor LRP1B, a Novel Member of the Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) Receptor Family, Exhibits Both Overlapping and Distinct Properties with the LDL Receptor-related Protein

The low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein-deleted in tumor (LRP1B, initially referred to as LRP-DIT) was cloned and characterized as a candidate tumor suppressor. It is a new member of the low density lipoprotein receptor gene family. Its overall domain structure and large size (∼600 kDa) are similar to LRP and suggest that it is a multifunctional cell surface receptor. Herein, we characterize a series of ligands for the receptor using cell lines that stably express it as a domain IV minireceptor (mLRP1B4). Ligands of LRP including receptor-associated protein, urokinase plasminogen activator, tissue-type plasminogen activator, and plasminogen activator inhibitor type-1 each demonstrate binding, internalization, and degradation via mLRP1B4. Interestingly, the kinetics of ligand endocytosis is distinctly different from that of LRP, with LRP1B exhibiting a markedly diminished internalization rate. In addition, tissue expression analysis reveals that the LRP1B gene is expressed in brain, thyroid, and salivary gland. These studies thus extend the physiological roles of members of the LDL receptor family.
Designing solar hot water systems for scaling environments

Component failures and system performance degradation in SHW systems due to scaling are common in areas with hard water. It appears that many valve and pump failures on the potable water side are related to scaling, and any scale build-up on heat transfer surfaces will result in performance degradation. Different designs are compared in regard to their susceptibility to problematic scaling. Indirect systems utilizing external and tank wall heat exchangers are compared in regard to the rate of scaling and the consequences of scaling on system performance. The tank wall heat exchanger appears preferable over a doubly pumped external heat exchanger, both in terms of system reliability and resistance to performance degradation.
Bulking Agents for Stress Incontinence: Are They a Real Option?

Urethral bulking agents are used in the treatment of female stress urinary incontinence in a wide variety of patients. Numerous materials have been approved for use in the USA, each with inherent properties that can affect its efficacy and safety profile, but none with characteristics deemed ideal to be used as an injectable implant. Few comparative studies are available to clearly define superiority of one agent over another. Nevertheless, bulking agents have demonstrated efficacy in appropriately selected and informed patients and do represent a viable option for women who do not want more invasive therapy and who understand efficacy and duration are inferior to other surgical options.
A Global Clustering Algorithm to Identify Long Intergenic Non-Coding RNA - with Applications in Mouse Macrophages

Identification of diffuse signals from the chromatin immunoprecipitation and high-throughput massively parallel sequencing (ChIP-Seq) technology poses significant computational challenges, and there are few methods currently available. We present a novel global clustering approach to enrich diffuse CHIP-Seq signals of RNA polymerase II and histone 3 lysine 4 trimethylation (H3K4Me3) and apply it to identify putative long intergenic non-coding RNAs (lincRNAs) in macrophage cells. Our global clustering method compares favorably to the local clustering method SICER that was also designed to identify diffuse CHIP-Seq signals. The validity of the algorithm is confirmed at several levels. First, 8 out of a total of 11 selected putative lincRNA regions in primary macrophages respond to lipopolysaccharides (LPS) treatment as predicted by our computational method. Second, the genes nearest to lincRNAs are enriched with biological functions related to metabolic processes under resting conditions but with developmental and immune-related functions under LPS treatment. Third, the putative lincRNAs have conserved promoters, modestly conserved exons, and expected secondary structures by prediction. Last, they are enriched with motifs of transcription factors such as PU.1 and AP.1, previously shown to be important lineage determining factors in macrophages, and 83% of them overlap with distal enhancers markers. In summary, GCLS based on RNA polymerase II and H3K4Me3 CHIP-Seq method can effectively detect putative lincRNAs that exhibit expected characteristics, as exemplified by macrophages in the study.
An opto-electronic multi-chip module for chip-level optical interconnects

We have integrated an 850-nm VCSEL, its driver, and diffractive lenslet array onto a single substrate to produce an integrated opto-electronic multi-chip module. The diffractive element fans the output from the VCSEL into an array of approximately 60 focal spots at a plane 1416 µm from the surface of the VCSEL. Experimental results are presented.
Ultrastructural changes in human prostatic epithelium grown in vitro.

Ultrastructural changes in the prepubertal human prostatic epithelium maintained in vitro are described and are compared with the ultrastructure of the same tissue before culture. In cultured cells, rough endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi complex are poorly represented and the latter also loses its polarity. Increase in cytoplasmic microfilaments is discussed in relation to possible vitamin A deficiency. Primary and secondary lysosomes, arising from autophagy and endocytosis, occur in large numbers as autophagosomes, myelin figures, residual bodies, and multivesicular bodies. Prostatic acid phosphatase activity, an important secondary sex characteristic, is influenced by sex hormones and malignancy; since this enzyme islysosome-associated, special emphasis is placed on lysosomal changes. Some ultrastructural changes in rough endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi complex, and the lysosomal system are similar to those observed after castration. This study presents ultrastructure of cultured cells which form basis for studies involving neoplastic transformation, aging, and hormonal manipulation using an in vitro model. This in necessitated by the absence of an in vivo animal model for prostatic neoplasia; hence studies on prostatic oncogenesis, an age-related phenomenon, must be done on cells in vitro. Significance of this study is enhanced by the fact that normal human prepubertal prostate has not been studied before and normal viable prostate is generally not available for investigations.
The exterior Dirichlet problem for the Helmholtz equation

Abstract The exterior Dirichlet problem for the reduced wave equation is reformulated as a new integral equation. It is shown that the normal derivative of the total field may be expressed as a Neumann series in terms of the known incident field. The convergence of the infinite series is established for arbitrary smooth surfaces and for small values of the wave number. An example is given that illustrates the method.
A correlation between turnover rates and lipophilic affinities of soluble rat liver proteins.

Abstract With the use of alkyl agarose columns which separate proteins according to their lipophilic affinities, a marked correlation has been uncovered between this parameter of proteins and their degradation rates in vivo . The possible relationship between these observations and analogous ones with other properties of proteins and their implications in regard to the mechanism of the turnover process are discussed.
Peptide Vaccines for Treatment of Colon Cancer: Have We Made Progress?

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer diagnosis and cause of cancer-related death in the USA. It accounts for more than one million cases diagnosed each year worldwide. In the past 10 years, new drugs have been approved, but the survival times are still modest. Alternative therapeutic strategies are clearly needed. A large number of tumor antigens and epitopes recognized by cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) have been identified in CRC. Cancer vaccines, designed to activate immune effectors (T cells and antibodies), to prevent recurrence, or to treat advanced cancers, have demonstrated clinical benefit in melanoma, prostate cancer, and lymphoma. Immunotherapy that targets tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) on cancer cells or tumor stroma is under investigation. This review discusses CRC immune responsiveness, current status of CRC vaccines, challenges, and future directions. New therapeutic modalities hold a promise to improve the patient’s clinical outcome.
Splint Therapy Over a Time Period of 3 Months Does Not Provide Additional Benefit for TMD Pain Relief Over Dentist-Prescribed Self-Care Alone

Article Title and Bibliographic Information The Efficacy of Traditional, Low-Cost and Nonsplint Therapies for Temporomandibular Disorder: A Randomized Controlled Trial Truelove E, Huggins KH, Mancl L, Dworkin SF. J Am Dent Assoc 2006;137(8):1099-107; quiz 1169 Level of Evidence 1b Purpose/Question Does adding either of 2 types of splint therapy to self-care offer any advantage for reducing TMD-related pain over self-care strategies alone that included jaw relaxation, reduction of oral habits, heat packs, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and jaw exercises? Source of Funding Government Type of Study/Design Randomized Controlled Trial
Assessment of Turbulence-Chemistry Interaction Models in the National Combustion Code (NCC) - Part I

This paper describes the implementations of the linear-eddy model (LEM) and an Eulerian FDF/PDF model in the National Combustion Code (NCC) for the simulation of turbulent combustion. The impacts of these two models, along with the so called ‘laminar chemistry’ model, are then illustrated via the preliminary results from two combustion systems: a nineelement gas fueled combustor and a single-element liquid fueled combustor.
Mount Dutton volcano, Alaska: Aleutian arc analog to Unzen volcano, Japan

Abstract Holocene eruptions from Mount Dutton, a small Late Quaternary volcano near the tip of the Alaska Peninsula, bear strong physical and petrologic similarities to the 1990–1995 Unzen Fugendake eruption in Japan. The volcano had a protracted phase of effusive calcalkaline andesitic (54–59 wt.% SiO 2 ) cone-building in the late Pleistocene followed by an abrupt switch to more silicic (∼65 wt.% SiO 2 ) lavas, emplaced as a central summit cluster of steep-sided domes beginning in the early Holocene. The flanks of the volcano are mantled by pyroclastic flows, debris flows, and talus formed as a result of gravitational dome collapse. Disequilibrium mineral assemblages, including coexisting quartz and olivine in eruptive episodes ranging from the initial cone-building basaltic andesite lavas to the latest Holocene dacite domes, suggest extensive magma mixing. In addition, up to meter-sized, pillow-like cognate mafic enclaves of hornblende+plagioclase+glass are common in the latest of the summit dacite domes. Mineralogical evidence and bulk chemical data indicate the enclaves represent a high-alumina basalt parent with variable and subordinate reservoir contaminant, and the host lava is reservoir magma with variable and subordinate basaltic contaminant. Mount Dutton's history and petrology can be interpreted as reflecting the monotonous repetitive intrusion of mantle-derived mafic magma into a silicic crystal-rich crustal reservoir. During the Holocene, these injections resulted in the extrusion of partially crystallized, viscous, `sticky' central domes which typically failed by collapse resulting in small volume Merapi-type flowage deposits. We speculate that slow introduction of mafic magma into the silicic chamber leads both to enclave formation and to the effusive eruption style. Mount Dutton volcano experienced severe shallow earthquake swarms in 1984, 1988, and to a lesser extent in 1991; although none of these swarms resulted in an eruption, their epicenter distribution and volcanic–tectonic character indicate they recorded the movement of magma at shallow depth beneath the volcano. The lessons of Unzen and Montserrat suggest that, despite limited tephra production, these small volcanic centers with central dome complexes present a serious hazard to life and property.
Improved Approximation to the Non-Null Distribution of the Correlation Coefficient

Abstract If r is the correlation coefficient based on a sample of n observations randomly drawn from a population having a bivariate normal distribution with correlation coefficient ρ, it is shown that is approximately distributed as t with (n − 2) degrees of freedom where ρ′ is a function of ρ and n satisfying certain constraints.
Early Cretaceous trypanosomatids associated with fossil sand fly larvae in Burmese amber

Early Cretaceous flagellates with characters typical of trypanosomatids were found in the gut of sand fly larvae, as well as in surrounding debris, in Burmese amber. This discovery supports a hypothesis in which free-living trypanosomatids could have been acquired by sand fly larvae in their feeding environment and then carried transtadially into the adult stage. At some point in time, specific genera were introduced into vertebrates, thus establishing a dixenous life cycle.
Deranged Calcium Signaling in Purkinje Cells and Pathogenesis in Spinocerebellar Ataxia 2 (SCA2) and Other Ataxias

Spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs) constitute a heterogeneous group of more than 30 autosomal-dominant genetic and neurodegenerative disorders. SCAs are generally characterized by progressive ataxia and cerebellar atrophy. Although all SCA patients present with the phenotypic overlap of cerebellar atrophy and ataxia, 17 different gene loci have so far been implicated as culprits in these SCAs. It is not currently understood how mutations in these 17 proteins lead to the cerebellar atrophy and ataxia. Several pathogenic mechanisms have been studied in SCAs but there is yet to be a promising target for successful treatment of SCAs. Emerging research suggests that a fundamental cellular signaling pathway is disrupted by a majority of these mutated genes, which could explain the characteristic death of Purkinje cells, cerebellar atrophy, and ataxia that occur in many SCAs. We propose that mutations in SCA genes cause disruptions in multiple cellular pathways but the characteristic SCA pathogenesis does not begin until calcium signaling pathways are disrupted in cerebellar Purkinje cells either as a result of an excitotoxic increase or a compensatory suppression of calcium signaling. We argue that disruptions in Purkinje cell calcium signaling lead to initial cerebellar dysfunction and ataxic sympoms and eventually proceed to Purkinje cell death. Here, we discuss a calcium hypothesis of Purkinje cell neurodegeneration in SCAs by primarily focusing on an example of spinocerebellar ataxia 2 (SCA2). We will also present evidence linking deranged calcium signaling to the pathogenesis of other SCAs (SCA1, 3, 5, 6, 14, 15/16) that lead to significant Purkinje cell dysfunction and loss in patients.
Molecular weight distribution measurements on humic and fulvic acid fractions from marine clays on the Scotian Shelf

Abstract The mol. wt. distribution of humic and fulvic acids extracted from marine clays was determined on Sephadex gels using the column Chromatographie technique. The results show a wide spread in molecular weight distribution ranging from less than 700 to over 2,000,000.
Eoarchean crustal evolution of the Jack Hills zircon source and loss of Hadean crust

Given the global dearth of Hadean (>4 Ga) rocks, 4.4–4.0 Ga detrital zircons from Jack Hills, Narryer Gneiss Complex (Yilgarn Craton, Western Australia) constitute our best archive of early terrestrial materials. Previous Lu–Hf investigations of these zircons suggested that felsic (low Lu/Hf) crust formation began by 4.4 to 4.5 Ga and continued for several hundred million years with evidence of the least radiogenic Hf component persisting until at least 4 Ga. However, evidence for the involvement of Hadean materials in later crustal evolution is sparse, and even in the detrital Jack Hills zircon population, the most unradiogenic, ancient isotopic signals have not been definitively identified in the younger (<3.9 Ga) rock and zircon record. Here we show Lu–Hf data from <4 Ga Jack Hills detrital zircons that document a significant and previously unknown transition in Yilgarn Craton crustal evolution between 3.9 and 3.7 Ga. The zircon source region evolved largely by internal reworking through the period 4.0–3.8 Ga, and the most ancient and unradiogenic components of the crust are mostly missing from the record after 4 Ga. New juvenile additions to the crust at ca. 3.9–3.8 Ga are accompanied by the disappearance of unradiogenic crust ca. 3.9–3.7 Ga. Additionally, this period is also characterized by a restricted range of d 18 O after 3.8 Ga and a shift in several zircon trace element characteristics ca. 3.9–3.6 Ga. The simultaneous loss of ancient crust accompanied by juvenile crust addition can be explained by a mechanism similar to subduction, which effects both processes on modern Earth. The oxygen isotope and trace element information, although less sensitive to tectonic setting, also supports a transition in zircon formation environment in this period. 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Small molecule inhibitors of mitochondrial division: tools that translate basic biological research into medicine

Mitochondria do not exist as discrete static entities; rather, mitochondria form a network that continuously moves, divides, and fuses. The structure of this dynamic network is in part maintained by a balance of division and fusion events (Hoppins et al., 2007). The ratio of division to fusion events that defines a proper balance is not universal but varies with developmental stage, cell type, and biological circumstances. This is evident throughout the cell cycle in higher eukaryotes, where mitochondria elongate during the G1/S transition and fragment at the onset of mitosis, and when mitochondria fragment in response to certain cellular stimuli, such as increases in cytosolic calcium levels (Breckenridge et al., 2003; Cereghetti et al., 2008; Han et al., 2008; Mitra et al., 2009; Taguchi et al., 2007). The functional state and distribution of mitochondria are clearly influenced by its steady-state structure. When the normal balance of division and fusion is disrupted as a consequence of the inappropriate stimulation or inhibition of either process, problems arise at the cellular level that compromises the well-being of the organism as a whole. This is evident by the ever-increasing number of diseases in which abnormal mitochondrial dynamics have been etiologically implicated. In this context, the mitochondrial division and fusion machines are valuable and interesting targets of small molecule effectors, as inhibition or activation of these processes may be able to restore the proper dynamic balance and function. A small molecule inhibitor of mitochondrial division, mdivi-1, has already been identified and characterized (Cassidy-Stone et al., 2008). This inhibitor has provided valuable insight into the mechanism of mitochondrial division and has shown great therapeutic promise in a wide array of disease models. This review will focus on small molecule effectors of mitochondrial division, discussing their value in basic biological research as well as their therapeutic potential.
ROLES OF TEMPERATURE, SALINITY, AND LIGHT IN SEASONALITY, GROWTH, AND TOXICITY OF CIGUATERA-CAUSING GAMBIERDISCUS-TOXICUS ADACHI ET FUKUYO (DINOPHYCEAE)

Abstract The ciguatera-causing dinoflagellate Gambierdiscus toxicus Adachi et Fukuyo reached maximum abundance in the Florida Keys when the water temperature was ≈ 30°C; populations were over half maximum when temperature lay in the interval 27–30°C. In laboratory unialgal culture experiments, temperatures >29 and 1.4 × 1016 quanta.cm-2 · s-1 (≈ 11% of full sunlight). Under optimum combinations of the aformentioned parameters, growth rates > 0.5 division · day-14 could be sustained and led to unusually high yields in large scale cultures of up to 360 mg (dry weight) · 1-1. Cultures grown at 27°C were more toxic than those at 21°C (3515 ± 500 cells · MU-1 vs. 16536 ± 2400 cells · MU-1, sd). Cultures were also still capable of producing toxins at inhibiting high irradiance levels.
Inverted polymer solar cells with a solution-processed cesium halide interlayer

We demonstrate the utility of a low-cost cesium iodide interlayer spun from an aqueous or 2-ethoxyethanol solution on ITO in inverted polymer solar cells of the structure ITO/CsI/P3HT:PCBM/MoO3/Al, where P3HT is poly(3-hexylthiophene) and PCBM is [6,6]-phenyl-C60-butyric acid methyl ester. The power conversion efficiency (PCE) of optimized cells was ∼3.4%, comparable to that we obtained for inverted cells with Cs carbonate. The thickness of the CsI film was adjusted by varying the solution concentration. The concentration affected the surface morphology of P3HT:PCBM and the density of fractal-like aggregates (possibly related to the presence of Cs and film fabrication conditions) formed near the anode, as revealed by scanning electron microscopy. Auger analysis indicated a P3HT-rich surface. Optimization of the cells was achieved also by varying the thickness of the MoO3 and the drying/annealing conditions of the active layer, as was evident from the current–voltage characteristics, external quantum efficiency spectra, and PCE. The cells with the CsI interlayer were compared additionally to cells with CsCl or CsF interlayers (with a PCE of up to ∼2.7%), which were inferior to the comparable cells with Cs2CO3 or CsI. The surface concentrations of Cs and the halide on ITO were monitored using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The iodine level was low with the Cs:I ratio exceeding 8:1. In contrast, the Cs:Cl ratio was ∼1.4:1 and the Cs:F ratio was ∼1:1; the Cs2CO3 decomposed partially, as expected. Therefore, for CsI, as is the case for Cs2CO3 but not for CsF, Cs–O bonds are formed at the surface. Such bonds on ITO are important in modifying the ITO work function, improving the cell performance. The results indicate that spin coating solutions of the high polarity CsI is a promising and easy approach to introduce Cs–O on ITO in inverted structures for increased electron extraction from PCBM and possibly hole extraction from the P3HT-rich surface at the anode.
Expressive Capabilities Description Languages and Query Rewriting Algorithms

Abstract Information integration systems have to cope with a wide variety of different information sources, which support query interfaces with very varied capabilities. To deal with this problem, the integration systems need descriptions of the query capabilities of each source, i.e., the set of queries supported by each source. Moreover, the integration systems need algorithms for deciding how a query can be answered given the capabilities of the sources. Finally, they need to translate a query into the format that the source understands. We present two languages suitable for descriptions of query capabilities of sources and compare their expressive power. We also use one of the languages to automatically derive the capabilities description of the integration system itself, in terms of the capabilities of the sources it integrates. We describe algorithms for deciding whether a query “matches” the description and show their application to the problem of translating user queries into source-specific queries and commands. We propose new, improved algorithms for the problem of answering queries using these descriptions. Finally, we identify an interesting class of source capability descriptions, for which our algorithms are much more efficient.
A nonlinear time-variant constrained model for rainfall-runoff

Models of the rainfall-runoff process can be segregated into two classes: those based on input-output (black box) techniques, and those based, directly or indirectly, on the laws of physics. Both approaches have limitations and advantages. In this paper a combined model is described which incorporates an approximate description of the physical process to estimate effective precipitation and uses the input-output estimation procedure of the constrained linear system (CLS) model to relate effective precipitation to runoff. Results are presented which demonstrate that certain problems of poor calibration and prediction encountered with the CLS model are significantly reduced by using estimated effective precipitation in place of actual precipitation. Use of the precipitation preprocessor with the CLS runoff model effectively incorporates nonlinear and time-variant dynamics without the necessity for multiple-parameter vectors and antecedent precipitation thresholds required by the original version of CLS. Additional refinements, including time variability of some of the parameters, can easily be accommodated in the new formulation.
Correlation of fluorescence emission with the plaque content and intimal thickness of atherosclerotic coronary arteries

The use of fluorescence emission for guidance during laser angioplasty may be limited by the complexity of the emission from the broad range of atherosclerotic plaques normally encountered in disease coronary arteries. Fatty, fibrous, and calcific plaque content as well as maximal intimal thickness were measured and correlated with fluorescence intensity ratios from the emission spectra for a broad cross-section of atherosclerotic plaques from human necropsy specimens. Multiple and stepwise regression analysis was used to analyze intensity ratios of 13 wavelengths between 390 and 600 nm corresponding to regions of observed spectral structure. The level of correlation of the intensity ratios with fatty and calcific plaque content was found to be dependent on the complexity of the atherosclerotic lesion. The fluorescence emission was found to correlate well with both fibrous plaque content and intimal thickness, allowing the differentiation between normal and atherosclerotic samples. In conclusion, plaque characteristics can be assessed by fluorescence emission, although the successful implementation of spectroscopic guidance is dependent on the level of prediction error which may vary with tissue type.
Predicted Performance of an Integrated Solar Thermal and Photovoltaic System With Hybrid Turbine-Fuel Cell Cogeneration System

A general approach, the HLRP technique, for determining the performance of a hybrid turbine-fuel cell cogeneration system with a renewable energy sources is presented for a domestic residence. The hybrid-cogeneration system provides the electric power as well as satisfying heating loads. In this paper a system level analysis that includes practical values of heat exchangers, pumps, and storage equipment is presented. The use of the ratio of the thermal load to required power parameter (HLRP), which has been used by the authors to scale energy systems, allows the performance to be quickly determined and preliminary carbon dioxide production rates and cost effects to be estimated. The present paper includes solar energy systems as renewable energy to illustrate the development of this technique and its integration with the hybrid fuel cell cogeneration system. Practical values of solar collector efficiency and storage tank and battery storage efficiency are included. The analysis focused on matching the transient characteristics of the power and thermal loads with those of the renewable energy system. The results demonstrate that for a typical winter day in the location studied there are not large variations in the energy utilization factors for the four different systems investigated. There is a 23% reduction in the carbon dioxide produced using the solar thermal or combined system as compared to the no renewable energy or photovoltaic systems. The information provided by the performance graphs is used to estimate costs for each system and to easily determine which system is the most efficient for satisfying energy requirements and reducing green house gas emissions. The results provide site planners and physical plant operators with initial information that can be used to design new facilities or effectively integrate large plant expansion that include renewable energy systems in a manner that will minimize energy requirements and reduce pollution effects.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
Organization of the axolemma in amyelinated axons: a cytochemical study in dy/dy dystrophic mice.

Previous studies using a variety of techniques have shown that in normal myelinated fibres there are structural differences between the axon membrane at nodes of Ranvier and in the internodes beneath the myelin sheath. The present paper reports the results of a cytochemical study on the axon membrane in amyelinated axons in dy/dy dystrophic mice, in which myelination is focally absent owing to a genetic defect. The results indicate that the amyelinated axon membrane, which is known to be capable of sustaining continuous impulse conduction, is structurally different from normal nodal membrane. Comparison of the cytochemical results with physiological and pharmacological data suggests that the amyelinated dystrophic axon membrane may exhibit a lower sodium channel density than normal nodal membrane.
InGaAsP Buried Channel Waveguide For Electroabsorption Modulation

External modulation of 1.3 μm laser light with LPE grown InGaAsP/InP buried channel waveguides is presented. The waveguide is compatible with single mode fiber and the planar structure has potential for monolithic integration. In this paper, a numerical analysis of electroabsorption (EA) modulation for the waveguide modulator shows interesting results which may help the design of this device.
An Estimate of the Threonine Requirement of the Laying Hen

ABSTRACT IN FEEDING laying hens purified diets that contain all amino acid nitrogen in place of intact protein, the largest expense is for the essential amino acid, threonine. While the level of threonine required by the chick (0.60 percent; Almquist, 1947) is known, the requirement of the laying hen is not established. In all cases where the amino acid requirement has been established for the laying hen (isoleucine, Miller et al., 1954; leucine, Machlin, 1955; lysine and tryptophan, Ingram et al. 1951a; methionine, Ingram et al., 1951b, Leong and McGinnis, 1951), it was found to be less than the chick requirement. If the threonine requirement of the laying hen could be established, it could result in a considerable reduction in the expense of feeding purified diets containing alpha amino acids. The possibility of an imbalance or toxicity developing from too much threonine must also be considered. In the following three experiments . . .
A shear-deformable, doubly-curved finite element for the analysis of laminated composite structures

Abstract A doubly-curved, shear-deformable finite element is developed for the analysis of laminated composite structures. The Kirchhoff hypothesis is relaxed to allow for shear deformations; as a result, three independently prescribed rotations as well as three displacements are specified at each of the eight nodes of the element. The constitutive equations are utilized to calculate the in-plane stresses for each layer of the laminated structure. In order to establish an appropriate variation through the thickness, the transverse shear stresses are found by integrating the equilibrium equations for each layer. An integration procedure using a finite difference approach is performed to evaluate the transverse shear stresses. Excellent results have been achieved for a three-layered, helically-wound cylinder with simply-supported and clamped ends.
Use of near infrared transmittance to automatically detect almonds with concealed damage

Abstract A near infrared inspection system was built to automatically detect whole almond kernels with concealed damage at an inspection rate of 40 nuts/s. The inspection device detects transmitted light through whole almonds from six different near infrared LEDs using a sine wave modulation–demodulation scheme. Multiple linear regression and discriminant analysis to classify nuts as concealed damaged or undamaged was performed. A classification error rate of 14.3% on the validation set was obtained with discriminant analysis, and a classification error rate of 20.0% was obtained with regression analysis. Most of the incorrectly classified nuts were those where it was difficult to objectively determine if they were damaged or undamaged.