cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Object identification: a Bayesian analysis with application to traffic surveillance

Abstract Object identification—the task of deciding that two observed objects are in fact one and the same object—is a fundamental requirement for any situated agent that reasons about individuals. Object identity, as represented by the equality operator between two terms in predicate calculus, is essentially a first-order concept. Raw sensory observations, on the other hand, are essentially propositional—especially when formulated as evidence in standard probability theory. This paper describes patterns of reasoning that allow identity sentences to be grounded in sensory observations, thereby bridging the gap. We begin by defining a physical event space over which probabilities are defined. We then introduce an identity criterion , which selects those events that correspond to identity between observed objects. From this, we are able to compute the probability that any two objects are the same, given a stream of observations of many objects. We show that the appearance probability , which defines how an object can be expected to appear at subsequent observations given its current appearance, is a natural model for this type of reasoning. We apply the theory to the task of recognizing cars observed by cameras at widely separated sites in a freeway network, with new heuristics to handle the inevitable complexity of matching large numbers of objects and with online learning of appearance probability models. Despite extremely noisy observations, we are able to achieve high levels of performance.
Chemical process design using heuristics in the context of pollution prevention

Compiled in sufficient quantities, the effectiveness of design heuristics (rules-of-thumb) to help identify pollution prevention alternatives has been demonstrated. In this paper, a core structure of associated heuristics and procedures developed using chemical engineering principles are presented for use during conceptual as well as retrofit design. The approach is applicable for continuous bulk processes and has been encoded in the software P2TCP (Pollution Prevention Tool for Continuous Processes), a prototype expert system, to help develop inherently cleaner processes. Unlike hierarchical or step-wise design techniques, heuristics (knowledge based rules) are presented that help identify potential unit operations and analyze their interactions independently within the reaction and separation systems of a chemical process. Interactions between the reaction and separation systems are then taken into account to further reduce the number of overall flow diagrams requiring subsequent evaluation. Future extensions to the knowledge base and combination with complimentary tools like process simulation packages are envisioned.
Synthesis of deuterium- and tritium-labeled 25,26,26,26,27,27,27-heptafluorocholesterol

25,26,26,26,27,27,27-Heptafluorocholesterol (F7-cholesterol) is a novel analog of cholesterol with potential value in biological investigations. We have combined an isotope-labeling strategy described for 15-ketosterols with modifications in the original synthesis of F7-cholesterol to prepare analogs containing deuterium or tritium at the C-23 position. 1H, 2H, and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectra indicated high chemical purity of the deuterium-labeled analog and confirmed the presence of deuterium only at C-23. The tritium-labeled analog was synthesized in high radiochemical purity with a specific activity of 472 mCi/mmol. Copyright © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Neutral thiol as a proximal ligand to ferrous heme iron: implications for heme proteins that lose cysteine thiolate ligation on reduction.

Cysteine plays a key role as a metal ligand in metalloproteins. In all well-recognized cases, however, it is the anionic cysteinate that coordinates. Several cysteinate-ligated heme proteins are known, but some fail to retain thiolate ligation in the ferrous state, possibly following protonation to form neutral cysteine. Ligation by cysteine thiol in ferrous heme proteins has not been documented. To establish spectroscopic signatures for such systems, we have prepared five-coordinate adducts of the ferrous myoglobin H94G cavity mutant with neutral thiol and thioether sulfur donors as well as six-coordinate derivatives such as with CO and, when possible, with NO and O2. A thiol-ligated oxyferrous complex is reported, to our knowledge for the first time. Further, a bis-thioether ferrous H93G model for bis-methionine ligation, as found in Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacterioferritin heme protein, is described. Magnetic CD spectroscopy has been used due to its established ability in axial ligand identification. The magnetic CD spectra of the H93G complexes have been compared with those of ferrous H175C/D235L cytochrome c peroxidase to show that its proximal ligand is neutral cysteine. We had previously reported this cytochrome c peroxidase mutant to be cysteinate-ligated in the ferric state, but the ferrous ligand was undetermined. The spectral properties of ferrous liver microsomal cytochrome P420 (inactive P450) are also consistent with thiol ligation. This study establishes that neutral cysteine can serve as a ligand in ferrous heme iron proteins, and that ferric cysteinate-ligated heme proteins that fail to retain such ligation on reduction may simply be ligated by neutral cysteine.
Las nuevas ciencias de la vida

Siguiendo parcialmente el pensamiento de Hugo Assmann, quien plantea las preguntas basales de como educar y como aprender, se postula que se aprende durante toda la vida y mediante todas las formas de vida, coincidiendo ello con la facultad de los seres vivos de la autoorganizacion. Aprender resulta asi un proceso donde coinciden los procesos vitales con los procesos de conocimiento. Surge de ello una biopedagogia que, asentada en el placer de aprender, esta en condiciones de reencantar la educacion. Para ilustrar las implicancias pedagogicas de este enfoque, se presentan los testimonios de cuatro vivencias de aprendizaje.
Pyrolysis-Crystallinity Relationships in Cellulose

Abstract During pyrolysis of pure cellulose, the Crystallinity Index (Crl) remained fairly constant over more than 50% weight loss before dropping rapidly as the X-ray pattern deteriorated. With samples first treated with trace quantities of inorganic salts, heating first increased the Crl—the results implying a preferentially catalyzed decomposition of the amorphous regions. Swelling cellulose in liquid ammonia eliminated the crystalline diffraction pattern, but heating restored a considerable degree of order. The initial weight loss rate in the swelled material was considerably accelerated and the ultimate char residue reduced. The results support the suggestion that inter-ring cross-linking leading to enhanced char formation will occur preferentially in the ordered rather than the disordered regions of natural cellulose.
The RADIANCE lighting simulation and rendering system

This paper describes a physically-based rendering system tailored to the demands of lighting design and architecture. The simulation uses a light-backwards ray-tracing method with extensions to efficiently solve the rendering equation under most conditions. This includes specular, diffuse and directional-diffuse reflection and transmission in any combination to any level in any environment, including complicated, curved geometries. The simulation blends deterministic and stochastic ray-tracing techniques to achieve the best balance between speed and accuracy in its local and global illumination methods. Some of the more interesting techniques are outlined, with references to more detailed descriptions elsewhere. Finally, examples are given of successful applications of this free software by others.
The Central Dilemma of China’s S&T Policy

The central dilemma for Chinese science and technology (S&T) policy is how to reform and improve such policies without the deleterious interventions of the past. In a centralized S&T system, government intervention has proved at times disruptive and even destructive to efforts at national economic advancement. The historical processes within China have produced an S&T system with enormous potential but plagued by difficulties in investment strategies and capacity for innovation. Simply put, investment levels have been low, and the capacity to generate more funding is lacking. How to improve the situation and confront the competitive challenges posed by a more transparent international economic system are considered in the last part of the article.
Binding of Ca and Mg by lipoprotein and nucleoprotein subfractions of rat liver cell microsomes

Rat liver cell microsomes were subfractionated in D2O-sucrose solutions of various densities into three subfractions with densities > 1.23, 1.18–1.23 and 1.12–1.18. There was an inverse correlation between the nucleic acid and lipid contents of these subfractions; the highest density subfraction had a relatively high nucleic acid (20.9%) and low lipid (15.1%) content and the lowest density subfraction had a low nucleic acid (3.4%) and a high lipid (45.2%) content. Whole microsomes were determined to be composed of 55.0% protein, 8.6% nucleic acid and 36.4% lipid. This composition of microsomes was calculated to reflect a nucleoprotein and lipoprotein content of 28% and 72%, respectively. Investigation of Ca and Mg binding by the three microsome subfractions and by the whole microsome fraction after equilibration for 12 hours in a medium of pH 6.7 containing 8–9 meq Ca or Mg/liter indicated that all fractions retained considerable amounts of the divalent cations (1.5–2.6 meq/g N). The nucleoprotein fraction was calculated to bind 0.35–0.40 meq Ca or Mg/g dry weight of nucleoprotein and the lipoprotein fraction 0.12 meq Ca or Mg/g dry weight of lipoprotein. Nevertheless, the lipoprotein fraction of microsomes is responsible for 45% of the total binding of Ca or Mg by the whole microsome fraction. These observations support the contention that cellular membrane structures, composed essentially of lipoprotein, can bind considerable quantities of the divalent cations.
Molecular basis underlying the poly C binding protein 1 as a regulator of the proximal promoter of mouse μ-opioid receptor gene

Previous studies showed poly C binding protein 1 (PCBP) participating in the mu-opioid receptor (MOR) gene regulation via binding to a single-stranded (ss) DNA element. In this report, we therefore investigate the molecular basis of PCBP regulating the MOR gene expression. Various truncated PCBPs, including one domain (KH1, KH2, variable or KH3), two- (K12, K2v or Kv3) or three-sequential domains (K12v or K2v3), were constructed. The MOR ssDNA binding abilities of these truncated PCBPs were examined using electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA). KH1 domain possessed a strong MOR ssDNA binding activity. Variable domain displayed no binding, and KH2 or KH3 domain possessed a weak MOR ssDNA binding activity. Binding of two-domain PCBPs indicated an additive effect of two-domain combinations. Interestingly, K2v3, a three-domain PCBP, displayed as strong ssDNA binding as that of K12v, suggesting synergism of KH2, KH3 and variable domains for the binding activity. Functional analysis demonstrated one-domain PCBPs exhibiting no transactivation on the MOR proximal promoter. Two-domain PCBPs displayed approximately 20% activity, while three-domain PCBPs displayed 70%-85% of full-length PCBP activity. Taken together, these results suggested that no single domain possessed sufficient functional activity to serve as an independent transactivation domain, and the combination of three sequential domains was necessary for its optimal activity to activate the MOR proximal promoter. In summary, our data suggested that cooperativity of three sequential domains is essential for PCBP functioning as a MOR gene regulator. Various ways in which this cooperativity could occur are discussed.
Sural and saphenous 14-cm antidromic sensory nerve conduction studies

Objective To create a large database of normal values for the sural and saphenous nerve conduction studies and to compare the results for the two nerves. Design Using a 14-cm antidromic technique, data were collected for onset latency, peak latency, onset-to-peak amplitude, peak-to-peak amplitude, area, duration, side-to-side variability, and between-nerve variability. A total of 230 subjects were included in the study. Results For the sural nerve, the upper limits of normal, defined as the 97th percentile of observed values, for onset latency, peak latency, and duration were 3.6, 4.5, and 2.1 msec, respectively. The comparable values for the saphenous nerve were 3.8, 4.4, and 1.9 msec, respectively. The lower limits of normal (third percentile) for sural onset-to-peak amplitude and peak-to-peak amplitude were 4 and 4 microV. The comparable values for the saphenous study were 2 and 1 microV. The upper limit of normal difference in onset latency between the two nerves was: saphenous 0.7 msec longer than sural or sural 0.3 msec longer than saphenous. The corresponding values for peak latency were: 0.6 and 0.5 msec. Conclusion Normal ranges are presented for a large database of subjects for the sural and saphenous nerve conduction studies.
Deletion of v7-3 (SLC6A15) transporter allows assessment of its roles in synaptosomal proline uptake, leucine uptake and behaviors

V7-3 (SLC6A15) is the prototype for a gene subfamily whose members have sequence homologies to classical Na+- and Cl(-)-dependent neurotransmitter transporters but display unusual features that include characteristic large fourth extracellular loops. Interest in v7-3 has been increased by the elucidation of its expression in neurons located in cerebral cortex, hippocampus, cerebellum, midbrain and olfactory bulb. To help clarify the role of v7-3 in brain functions, we have created and characterized v7-3 knockout mice. These mice lack functional v7-3 protein but are viable and fertile. While our studies were in progress, v7-3 expression was reported to confer transport of proline and branched-chain amino acids in in vitro expression systems [Takanaga, H., Mackenzie, B., Peng, J.B., Hediger, M.A., 2005b. Characterization of a branched-chain amino-acid transporter SBAT1 (SLC6A15) that is expressed in human brain. Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 337, 892-900; Broer, A., Tietze, N., Kowalczuk, S., Chubb, S., Munzinger, M., Bak, L.K., Broer, S., 2006. The orphan transporter v7-3 (slc6a15) is a Na+-dependent neutral amino acid transporter (B0AT2). Biochem. J. 393, 421-430]. Assessment of amino acid uptake into cortical synaptosomes of v7-3 knockouts identified 15% and 40% reductions in sodium-dependent proline and leucine transport, respectively, compared to wild type controls. Despite these biochemical changes, v7-3 knockout mice demonstrate only modest alterations in rotarod performance with aging and lack reproducible alterations in other motor, memory, anxiety or olfactory tests. Compensation for the lack of v7-3 via other amino acid carriers is likely to leave v7-3 knockouts without gross behavioral manifestations. The current results place v7-3 in the context of other brain transporters that accumulate proline and branched-chain amino acids.
Current-influenced depositional provinces, continental margin off Cape Hatteras, identified by petrologic method

Abstract Analyses of DSRV “Alvin” core samples on the Cape Hatteras margin indicate major textural and compositional changes at depths of about 1000 and well below 2500 m. The distribution patterns of petrologic parameters correlate well with water mass flow and suspended-sediment plumes measured on this margin by other workers. Our study also shows: (a) vigorous erosion and sediment transport at depths of less than 400 m resulting from the NE-trending Gulf Stream flow; (b) deposition, largely planktonic-rich sediment released from the Gulf Stream, on the upper- to mid-slope, to depths of about 800–1200 m; (c) winnowing, resuspension and deposition induced by periodically intensified slope currents on the mid-slope to uppermost rise, between about 1000 and 2500 m; and (d) prevailing deposition on the upper rise proper (below 2500 m), from transport by the SW-trending Western Boundary Undercurrent. Sediments moved by bottom currents have altered the composition and distribution patterns of material transported downslope by offshelf spillover; this mixing of gravity-emplaced and bottom-current-transported sediment obscures depositional boundaries. Moreover, reworking of the seafloor by benthic organisms alters physical properties and changes erodability of surficial sediments by bottom currents. Measurement of current flow above the seafloor and direct observation of the bottom are insufficient to delineate surficial sediment boundaries. Detailed petrologic analyses are needed to recognize the long-term signature of processes and define depositional provinces.
Simulation of the transport of atoms in a facing targets sputtering system

Sputter deposition is a complex process; it is obvious that the energy and direction of the particles arriving at the substrate is in close relation with the transport process from the targets to the substrate. It is desirable to model this transport of atoms through the background gas. Results are presented for Monte Carlo simulation of the sputtered atom transport in systems with Facing Targets Sputtering (FTS). The sputtering system geometry, gas pressure and the gap between the targets strongly influence the features of the forward and backward sputtered atom flows, impact angle, and energy of depositing atoms.
Flow measurements based on Rayleigh scattering and Fabry-Perot interferometer

Flow diagnostics based on molecular Rayleigh scattering are discussed along with the results of a feasibility study to non-intrusively measure flow properties in a small supersonic wind tunnel. The technique uses an injection seeded, frequency doubled Nd:YAG laser tuned to an absorption band of iodine. The molecular Rayleigh scattered light is filtered with an iodine cell to block light at the laser frequency. The Doppler-shifted Rayleigh scattered light that passes through the iodine cell is analyzed with a planar mirror Fabry-Perot interferometer used in a static imaging mode. An intensified CCD camera is used to record the images. The images are analyzed at several subregions, where the flow properties are determined. Each image is obtained with a single laser pulse, giving instantaneous measurements.
The Resting State of Human Proton Channel from Functional and Structural Determinations

The human voltage gated proton channel (Hv1) plays an important role in a wide variety of physiological functions, including male fertility, immune response and metastatic proliferation. Upon transmembrane voltage stimulus, the rearrangement of positively charged S4 leads to highly selective and directional conduction of proton. Hv1 carries out this function on the structural blueprint of the S4-containing voltage sensing domains (VSD). As a way to understand Hv1 gating, we have developed a simple biochemical preparation of functional Hv1 as shown by established fluorescence based proton flux assay. We have probed Hv1 in the functional proteoliposome by site-directed spin labeling EPR spectroscopic (SDSL-EPR) methods. Mobility and accessibility information show that the secondary structure of transmembrane segments is generally consistent with the expected VSD topology. Solvent accessibility measurements revealed that the gating Arginines (205, 208 and 211) are located on the lower part of S4, the internal leaflet of the bilayer. The presence of a narrow solvent occluded region strongly suggests a short proton conduction pathway, and does not seem to be compatible with the idea of a long water wire across membrane. Furthermore, the Hv1 represents a resting state VSD at 0 mV according to its G-V curve . The structural details from Hv1 provide unique insight to not only the proton conduction, but also the mechanism of voltage sensing.
On the instantaneous distribution of vertical velocity in the monsoon field and structure of the monsoon circulation

An approximate representation of the instantaneous three-dimensional circulation of the Asian summer monsoon has been obtained using data and analysis at a given map time in July 1963 during the International Indian Ocean Expedition (1963–65). For this purpose, vertical velocity was computed using the continuity equation and by stepwise integration of the divergence field, at the standard isobaric levels at every five-degree grid-point along seven meridional sections extending from 50° E to 140° E between latitudes 35° N and 25° S. In conjunction with the meridional and zonal components of the winds, the vertical velocities yielded the instantaneous vertical circulation patterns and these are presented along seven meridional and four zonal sections. The isobaric distribution of vertical velocity is presented along four standard pressure surfaces, viz. 850, 700, 500 and 100 mb. The computed vertical velocities show three well-defined updraft areas over the landmass of Asia, one over Arabia, one over India, and the third over China. A few localized updraft cells of feeble intensity appear over the sea areas, e.g. one in the equatorial region between Gan Island (00°41? S, 73°09? E) and Indonesia and another in western central Pacific, east of the Philippines. Extensive downdraft areas are found over the land area between India and Arabia, over western Himalayas and Tibet, and over most of the sea areas lying to the south of the continental landmass. Practically the whole of the west Arabian Sea appears under intense downdraft. Over many areas, however, the computed vertical velocities increase continually with height showing little or no vertical compansation. This is, of course, due to analysis Notwithstanding this basic problem, the computed vertical velocity patterns are found to be compatible with the observed distribution of temperature, humidity, vorticity, rainfall, and jet streams. The presence of a belt of equatorial westerlies (south of the Equator) in the Indian Ocean area would also seem to support computed updraft in this region. The evidences furnished in the paper strongly suggest that it is only a three-dimensional thermal convective model that can describe the giant monsoon circulation over the north Indian Ocean and adjoining Asian continent adequately. DOI: 10.1111/j.2153-3490.1968.tb00403.x
Nanophotonic Lasers and Spontaneous Light Sources: Scaling Trends for Speed, Efficiency, and Quantum Light Generation Using Single Quantum Dots

Theory and experimental results for nonphotonic devices based on epitaxial nanostructures will be presented. The devices include new types of quantum light sources, high speed nanoscale laser diodes, and energy conversion devices for harvesting thermal energy.
Thermal performance of nanofluid flow in microchannels

Abstract Two effective thermal conductivity models for nanofluids were compared in detail, where the new KKL (Koo–Kleinstreuer–Li) model, based on Brownian motion induced micro-mixing, achieved good agreements with the currently available experimental data sets. Employing the commercial Navier–Stokes solver CFX-10 (Ansys Inc., Canonsburg, PA) and user-supplied pre- and post-processing software, the thermal performance of nanofluid flow in a trapezoidal microchannel was analyzed using pure water as well as a nanofluid, i.e., CuO–water, with volume fractions of 1% and 4% CuO-particles with dp = 28.6 nm. The results show that nanofluids do measurably enhance the thermal performance of microchannel mixture flow with a small increase in pumping power. Specifically, the thermal performance increases with volume fraction; but, the extra pressure drop, or pumping power, will somewhat decrease the beneficial effects. Microchannel heat sinks with nanofluids are expected to be good candidates for the next generation of cooling devices.
In vivo three-dimensional imaging of plants with optical coherence microscopy.

Summary Achieving the ability to non-destructively, non-invasively examine subsurface features of living multicellular organisms at a microscopic level is currently a challenge for biologists. Optical coherence microscopy (OCM) is a new photonics-based technology that can be used to address this challenge. OCM takes advantage of refractive properties of biological molecules to generate three-dimensional images that can be viewed with a computer. We describe new data processing techniques and a different visualization algorithm that substantially improve OCM images. We have applied OCM imaging, in conjunction with these improvements, to a variety of structures of plants, including leaves, flowers, ovules and germinating seeds, and describe the visualization of cellular and subcellular structures within intact plants. We present evidence, based on detailed examination of our OCM images, comparisons to classical plant anatomy studies, and current knowledge of light scattering by cells and their components, that we can distinguish nuclei, organelles and vacuoles. Detailed examination of vascular tissue, which contains cells with elaborate wall structure, shows that cell walls produce no significant OCM signal. These improvements to the visualization process, together with the powerful non-invasive, non-destructive aspects of the technology, will broaden the application of OCM to questions in studies of plants as well as animals.
Locked Nucleic Acids Can Enhance the Analytical Performance of Quantitative Methylation-Specific Polymerase Chain Reaction

Aberrant DNA methylation of tumor suppressor genes is a frequent epigenetic event that occurs early in tumor progression. Real-time quantitative methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction (QMSP) assays can provide accurate detection and quantitation of methylated alleles that may be potentially useful in diagnosis and risk assessment for cancer. Development of QMSP requires optimization to maximize analytical specificity and sensitivity for the detection of methylated alleles. However, in some cases challenges encountered in primer and probe design can make optimization difficult and limit assay performance. Locked nucleic acids (LNAs) demonstrate increased affinity and specificity for their cognate DNA sequences. In this proof-of-principle study, LNA residues were incorporated into primer and probe design to determine whether LNA-modified oligonucleotides could enhance the analytical performance of QMSP for IGSF4 promoter methylation in human cancer cell lines using either SYBR Green or fluorogenic probe detection methods. Use of LNA primers in QMSP with SYBR Green improved analytical specificity for methylated alleles and eliminated the formation of nonspecific products because of mispriming from unmethylated alleles. QMSP using LNA probe and primers showed an increased amplification efficiency and maximum fluorescent signal. QMSP with LNA oligonucleotides and either detection method could reliably detect five genome equivalents of methylated DNA in 1000- to 10,000-fold excess unmethylated DNA. Thus, LNA oligonucleotides can be used in QMSP optimization to enhance analytical performance.
Weathering the Storm: The Impact of Hurricanes on Physical and Mental Health

The authors briefly review the deaths, injuries, and diseases attributed to hurricanes that made landfall in the United States prior to Hurricane Katrina; recent hurricane evacuation studies and their potential for reducing death, injury, and disease; information available to date about mortality, injury, and disease attributed to Hurricane Katrina; and psychological distress attributable to hurricanes. Drowning in salt water caused by storm surges has been reduced over the past thirty years, while deaths caused by fresh water (inland) flooding and wind have remained steady. Well-planned evacuations of coastal areas can reduce death and injury associated with hurricanes. Hurricane Katrina provides an example of what happens when evacuation is not handled appropriately. Preliminary data indicate that vulnerable elderly people were substantially overrepresented among the dead and that evacuees represent a population potentially predisposed to a high level of psychological distress, exacerbated by severe dis...
The Xylem and Phloem Transcriptomes from Secondary Tissues of the Arabidopsis Root-Hypocotyl

The growth of secondary xylem and phloem depends on the division of cells in the vascular cambium and results in an increase in the diameter of the root and stem. Very little is known about the genetic mechanisms that control cambial activity and the differentiation of secondary xylem and phloem cell types. To begin to identify new genes required for vascular cell differentiation and function, we performed genome-wide expression profiling of xylem and phloem-cambium isolated from the root-hypocotyl of Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). Gene expression in the remaining nonvascular tissue was also profiled. From these transcript profiles, we assembled three sets of genes with expression significantly biased toward xylem, phloem-cambium, or nonvascular tissue. We also assembled three two-tissue sets of genes with expression significantly biased toward xylem/phloem-cambium, xylem/nonvascular, or phloem-cambium/nonvascular tissues. Localizations predicted by transcript profiles were supported by results from promoter-reporter and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction experiments with nine xylem- or phloem-cambium-biased genes. An analysis of the members of the phloem-cambium gene set suggested that some genes involved in regulating primary meristems are also regulators of the cambium. Secondary phloem was implicated in the synthesis of auxin, glucosinolates, cytokinin, and gibberellic acid. Transcript profiles also supported the importance of class III HD ZIP and KANADI transcription factors as regulators of radial patterning during secondary growth, and identified several members of the G2-like, NAC, AP2, MADS, and MYB transcription factor families that may play roles as regulators of xylem or phloem cell differentiation and activity.
Stochasticity of flow through microcirculation as a regulator of oxygen delivery

Objective Observations of microcirculation reveal that the blood flow is subject to interruptions and resumptions. Accepting that blood randomly stops and resumes, one can show that the randomness could be a powerful means to match oxygen delivery with oxygen demand.
Utility of protein structures in overcoming ADMET-related issues of drug-like compounds.

The number of solved X-ray structures of proteins relevant for ADMET processes of drug molecules has increased remarkably over recent years. In principle, this development offers the possibility to complement the quantitative structure–property relationship (QSPR)-dominated repertoire of in silico ADMET methods with protein-structure-based approaches. However, the complex nature and the weak nonspecific ligand-binding properties of ADMET proteins take structural biology methods and current docking programs to the limit. In this review we discuss the utility of protein-structure-based design and docking approaches aimed at overcoming issues related to plasma protein binding, active transport via P-glycoprotein, hERG channel mediated cardiotoxicity and cytochrome P450 inhibition, metabolism and induction.
Recognizing Differences and Commonalities: The Rhetoric of Health and Medicine and Critical-Interpretive Health Communication

We are colleagues in a generalist communication department that has a depth of faculty in health communication. This depth creates potential for collaboration, but we have observed that our differe...
Continuous-wave InGaN laser diodes on copper and diamond substrates

InGaN-based optoelectronics were integrated with dissimilar substrate materials using a novel thin-film laser lift-off (LLO) process. The LLO process was employed to integrate InGaN-based laser diodes (LDs) with Cu and diamond substrates. Separation of InGaN-based thin-film devices from their typical sapphire growth substrates was accomplished using a pulsed excimer laser in the ultraviolet regime incident through the transparent substrate. Characterization of the LDs before and after the sapphire substrate removal revealed no measurable degradation in device performance. Reduced threshold currents and increased differential quantum efficiences were measured for LDs on Cu due to a 50% reduction of the thermal impedence. Light output for LDs on Cu was two times greater than comparable LDs on sapphire with a maximum output of 100 mW. Increased light output for LDs on diamond was also measured with a maximum output of 80 mW.
Closing the Folding Chamber of the Eukaryotic Chaperonin Requires the Transition State of ATP Hydrolysis

Chaperonins use ATPase cycling to promote conformational changes leading to protein folding. The prokaryotic chaperonin GroEL requires a cofactor, GroES, which serves as a "lid" enclosing substrates in the central cavity and confers an asymmetry on GroEL required for cooperative transitions driving the reaction. The eukaryotic chaperonin TRiC/CCT does not have such a cofactor but appears to have a "built-in" lid. Whether this seemingly symmetric chaperonin also operates through an asymmetric cycle is unclear. We show that unlike GroEL, TRiC does not close its lid upon nucleotide binding, but instead responds to the trigonal-bipyramidal transition state of ATP hydrolysis. Further, nucleotide analogs inducing this transition state confer an asymmetric conformation on TRiC. Similar to GroEL, lid closure in TRiC confines the substrates in the cavity and is essential for folding. Understanding the distinct mechanisms governing eukaryotic and bacterial chaperonin function may reveal how TRiC has evolved to fold specific eukaryotic proteins.
Stereoselective enone reductions by Saccharomyces carlsbergensis old yellow enzyme

A series of 2- and 3-alkyl-substituted 2-cyclohexenones were shown to be substrates for the old yellow enzyme of Saccharomyces carlsbergensis expressed in Escherichia coli cells. Chemo- and stereoselective alkene reductions were observed, and the absolute configurations of the products could be predicted from the X-ray crystal structure of the protein. No competing carbonyl reductions were detected. These results support the notion that enzymes of this family may be useful in stereoselective organic synthesis.
Surveillance Data on Pesticide and Agricultural Chemical Releases and Associated Public Health Consequences in Selected US States, 2003–2007

Background While pesticides and agricultural chemicals are used to increase crop production and to reduce the spread of disease, their toxic nature also has the potential to threaten human health. Releases of pesticides and agricultural chemicals have resulted in human illness and death. This analysis examines releases of pesticides and agricultural chemicals and their associated injuries captured by the Hazardous Substances Emergency Events Surveillance (HSEES) system from 2003–2007.
Prevalence, treatment, and outcomes associated with OSA among patients hospitalized with pneumonia.

Background OSA is associated with increased risks of respiratory complications following surgery. However, its relationship to the outcomes of hospitalized medical patients is unknown. Methods We carried out a retrospective cohort study of patients with pneumonia at 347 US hospitals. We compared the characteristics, treatment, and risk of complications and mortality among patients with and without a diagnosis of OSA while adjusting for other patient and hospital factors. Results Of the 250,907 patients studied, 15,569 (6.2%) had a diagnosis of OSA. Patients with OSA were younger (63 years vs 72 years), more likely to be men (53% vs 46%), more likely to be married (46% vs 38%), and had a higher prevalence of obesity (38% vs 6%), chronic pulmonary disease (68% vs 47%), and heart failure (28% vs 19%). Patients with OSA were more likely to receive invasive (18.1% vs 9.3%) and noninvasive (28.8% vs 6.8%) forms of ventilation upon hospital admission. After multivariable adjustment, OSA was associated with an increased risk of transfer to intensive care (OR, 1.54; 95% CI, 1.42-1.68) and intubation (OR, 1.68; 95% CI, 1.55-1.81) on or after the third hospital day, longer hospital stays (risk ratio [RR], 1.14; 95% CI, 1.13-1.15), and higher costs (RR, 1.22; 95% CI, 1.21-1.23) among survivors, but lower mortality (OR, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.84-0.98). Conclusion Among patients hospitalized for pneumonia, OSA is associated with higher initial rates of mechanical ventilation, increased risk of clinical deterioration, and higher resource use, yet a modestly lower risk of inpatient mortality.
Cellular ‘neoteny’: A possible developmental basis for chromaffin cell plasticity

Adrenal medullary chromaffin cells, SIF cells and sympathetic neurons are derived from the sympatho-adrenal sublineage of the neural crest, and represent a range of cellular phenotypes extending from endocrine to neuronal. It is suggested here that these cell types may represent different stages of developmental 'arrest' along a linear pathway whose endpoint is a cholinergic sympathetic neuron. This model explains the 'transdifferentiation' of mature cells seen in this system as simply a delayed realization of transitions that normally occur between these stages during development. Such a 'linear model' of phenotypic diversification may be applicable to other developing systems that generate closely related but distinct cell types.
Critical care management in acute ischemic stroke

Neurocritical care has evolved over the past 20 years in parallel with the growth of critical care medicine and the stunning developments in the fields of neurology and neurosurgery. Although clinical trials are needed, there is preliminary evidence that induced hypertension and hypothermia can improve outcomes. The optimal threshold for transfusion of red cells remains unknown in patients with ischemic stroke and similarly further studies are needed to examine glycemic control and identify which patients may benefit most from aggressive insulin therapy. Finally, optimization of medical treatment is key in the care of the stroke patient and we should be cautious when prognosticating early in the setting of acute stroke and be aware of the potential effect 'do not resuscitate' status may have on patient outcome.
Circuits through prefrontal cortex, basal ganglia, and ventral anterior nucleus map pathways beyond motor control

The ventral anterior (VA) nucleus of the thalamus is connected with prefrontal and premotor cortices and with the basal ganglia. Although classically associated with motor functions, recent evidence implicates the basal ganglia in cognition and emotion as well. Here, we used two complementary approaches to investigate whether the VA is a key link for pathways underlying cognitive and emotional processes through prefrontal cortices and the basal ganglia. After application of bidirectional tracers in functionally distinct lateral, medial, and orbitofrontal cortices, we found that projection neurons were embedded in much larger patches of axonal terminations found in the magnocellular part of VA (VAmc), and in the principal part of VA. Connections from medial prefrontal cortices occupied the dorsomedial and ventromedial VA, and orbitofrontal connections were found in ventrolateral VAmc. Moreover, about half of all projection neurons in orbitofrontal areas directed to the VA or VAmc were positive for calbindin but not parvalbumin, even though comparable populations of neurons were positive for each marker in the VA. We then applied tracers in VA and investigated simultaneously projections from all prefrontal areas, the internal segment of the globus pallidus (GPi), the substantia nigra reticulata (SNr), and the thalamic reticular nucleus. Projection neurons were most densely distributed in anterior cingulate areas 24 and 32, and dorsolateral areas 9 and 8, innervating the same VA sites that received projections from a large part of GPi and dorsal SNr. Nearly as many projection neurons originated from cortical layer V as from layer VI. There is evidence that cortical layer VI neurons innervate thalamic neurons that project focally to the middle cortical layers, whereas layer V neurons synapse with thalamic neurons projecting widely to cortical layer I. Projections from layer V to the VA may facilitate cortical recruitment for executive functions within a cognitive context through lateral prefrontal areas, and autonomic responses within an emotional context through anterior cingulate areas.
Test performance in systemic sclerosis : anti-centromere and anti-Scl-70 antibodies

Abstract PURPOSE: To determine the sensitivity and specificity of anti-centromere (ACA) and anti-Scl-70 antibodies in systemic sclerosis (SSc). METHODS: Four-hundred ninety-seven English language articles published from 1966 to 1994 were identified by structured MEDLINE search. Articles in which either ACA or anti-Scl-70 antibodies were measured in both SSc patients and a non-SSc control group were reviewed and rated using a previously published diagnostic testing scale. Reported sensitivity and specificity from each study was converted into a 2 × 2 table, and combined across studies to calculate summary rates for each antibody. Author's clinical classification criteria for SSc served as the gold standard for disease diagnosis. RESULTS: In 30 articles that fulfilled inclusion criteria, ACA were found in 441 of 1,379 SSc patients (sensitivity 32%, range 17% to 56%). This increased to 57% (332 of 585) in patients with the limited cutaneous, or CREST, subset of SSc (lcSSc). Anti-Scl-70 antibodies were found in 366 of 1,074 SSc patients (sensitivity 34%, range 3% to 75%), and this increased slightly to 40% in patients with the diffuse cutaneous form of SSc (dcSSc). Both antibodies were measured in 670 patients, and either test was positive in 58% (range 29% to 86%), but in only 3 patients were both antibodies present. The specificity of each antibody was high, but varied by control group. ACA were present in 5% and anti-Scl-70 antibodies were present in 2% of patients with other connective tissue diseases, but fewer than 1% of disease free controls had either antibody present. CONCLUSIONS: As individual diagnostic tests in SSc, both ACA and anti-Scl-70 antibodies are highly specific. Each performs somewhat better as discriminators of clinical subsets for patients in whom a diagnosis of SSc has already been established. Clinicians can rely on a positive test result as being specific in the detection of disease, but 40% of SSc patients are likely to have neither antibody present, and a negative result does not exclude the diagnosis. Measurement of these antibodies should be considered secondary to the clinical features when making a diagnosis of SSc.
Global Families: A History of Asian International Adoption in America Catherine Ceniza Choy. New York: New York University Press, 2013.

Global Families; A History of Asian International Adoption in America Catherine Ceniza Choy. New York: New York University Press, 2013.In the thirty years between 1971 and 2001, over one-half of the 265,677 children internationally adopted by Americans came from Asia. Employing this statistic on the second page of Global Families, Catherine Ceniza Choy sets out to investigate the historical origins of the United States' transformation into an international adoption nation following World War II. Choy's work emphasizes Asian international adoption as crucial to developing American transnational and tr ans racial families. In examining this transformation, Choy rejects more simplistic understandings of international adoption and seeks out a more "nuance, complex understanding of its history as a history of race, foreign relations, immigration, and labor as well as intimacy" (6) in a way that incorporates a wide assortment of voices and agents.American citizens began to adopt children born overseas, from East Asia in particular, in significant numbers during the 1950s. American families first initiated widespread Asian international adoption through their adoptions of the offspring of women from Japan and South Korea and American servicemen stationed there. Some of the impetus for adopting these children undoubtedly came from a sense of responsibility towards these fatherless children and a need to project a positive image of the United States in the era of decolonization. However, the American media frequently depicted these East Asian nations as "stagnant, homogenized place[s] of backward-thinking in contrast to a progressive and dynamic United States," which the media publicized as "the best hope for mixed-race children," (27) despite evidence to the contrary. But American families did not limit their international adoptions to mixed-race children fathered by American servicemen overseas. The Hong Kong Project, a collaborative project between adoption agencies in Hong Kong and the International Social Service-United States of America Branch (ISS-USA) facilitating the adoption of refugee Chinese children for families in the United States, likewise contributed to the development of an international adoption nation. While initially aiming to promote adoption among Chinese families living in the United States, white families, as ISS-USA workers quickly discovered, also indicated great interest in adopting these children. However, as with Japan and South Korea, improved economic conditions and an increase in social services and domestic adoption within Hong Kong led to a decrease in the number of international adoptions of Chinese refugee children. …
Transduction of enzyme‐ligand binding energy into catalytic driving force

Abstract We propose a testable general mechanism by which ligand binding energy can be used to drive a catalytic step in an enzyme catalyzed reaction or to do other forms of work involving protein molecules. This energy transduction theory is based on our finding of the widespread occurrence of ligand binding-induced protein macrostate interconversions each having a large invariant Δ H ° accompanied by a small but highly variable Δ G °. This phenomenon, which can be recognized by the large Δ Cp °'s it generates, can provide the necessary energy input step but is not in itself sufficient to constitute a workable transduction mechanism. A viable mechanism requires the additional presence of an ‘energy transmission step’ which is terminated to trigger the ‘power’ stroke at a precise location on the reaction coordinate, followed by an energetically inexpensive ‘return’ step to restore the machine to its initial conditions. In the model we propose here, these additional steps are provided by the existence of ligand inducible 2-state transitions in the free enzyme and in each of the enzyme complexes that occur along the reaction coordinate, and by the selective blocking of certain of these interconversions by high energetic barriers. We provide direct experimental evidence supporting the facts that these additional mechanistic components do exist and that the liver glutamate dehydrogenase reaction is indeed driven by just such machinery. We describe some aspects of the chemical nature of these transitions, and evidence for their occurrence in other systems.
Shortchanging the future of information technology: the untapped resource

Building on ideas from a virtual workshop and additional input from the scientific community, the CISE Directorate at the National Science Foundation established the Information Technology Workforce Program (ITWF) in March 2000 to support a broad set of scientific research studies focused on the under-representation of women and minorities in the information technology workforce. In this paper, we explore various approaches that the funded researchers are taking to address the problem of women in information technology. We begin with a brief history of the ITWF, and then focus on some of the research projects in terms of their goals, approaches, and expected outcomes.