cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Efficient production of human FVIII in hemophilic mice using lentiviral vectors

Lentiviral vectors (LV) have the ability to integrate their proviral DNA containing a therapeutic gene into the host cell's genome. Therefore, these vectors have a great potential for gene therapy especially in the treatment of hereditary diseases like hemophilia A, which require lifelong expression of the transgene. We constructed an HIV-1-based LV containing human B-domain-deleted factor VIII (FVIII) cDNA under the control of a promoter consisting of the chicken beta-actin promoter, CMV enhancers, and a large synthetic intron (CAG), which is a robust transcription promoter. High levels of FVIII expression from this vector could be demonstrated in vitro in 293T cells, primary liver cells, and hematopoietic progenitor cells. To test whether this viral vector was able to correct the bleeding disorder of C57BL/6 FVIII knockout mice, we transduced these mice with the FVIII LV either by intraperitoneal injection or by transplantation with transduced syngeneic bone marrow. FVIII production was analyzed in the blood plasma for a period of 3 months; however, only low levels of FVIII (<50 mU), which were below 5% of normal FVIII levels of 1000 mU, could be detected. Further analysis revealed that the low levels of FVIII activity present in the blood plasma were due to the presence of neutralizing antibodies to FVIII and not due to lack of expression of FVIII from the viral vector. FVIII expression could be detected in the tissues of the transduced mice by Western blot analysis and in ex vivo cultures. These data demonstrate that LVs are able to produce therapeutic levels of FVIII in knockout mice when administered by ip infection or by transduced hematopoietic cells. The challenge is to overcome the immune barriers to the therapeutic gene product.
The Santa Barbara oil spill Part 2: Initial effects on intertidal and kelp bed organisms

Abstract The initial effects of the Santa Barbara oil spill on intertidal and kelp bed organisms were studied. Based on earlier surveys, the greatest negative biological change at a sample station after the spill was the loss of 16 plant species. However, losses in species were correlated in most cases with sand movement, and may have been related to the severe storms which occurred before and during the oil spill. Although gross species changes were not correlated with oil dosage, severe damage occurred in intertidal surf grass and barnacle populations as a result of the oil pollution. Potential long-term biological effects of the continuing pollution are discussed.
Random and directed migration of trout (Salmogairdneri) leukocytes: Activation by antibody, complement, and normal serum components

Abstract Purified peripheral blood leukocytes from rainbow trout ( Salmo gairdneri ) were used in experiments to determine whether these cells are capable of random or directed leukotaxis in response to immunologically important mediators. Leukocyte migration was assessed by the use of microporous filter penetration assays and migration-under-agarose tests. Leukocyte migration rates were enhanced in filter penetration assays by the presence of antigen-antibody-complement complexes, and chemotactic migration was observed in migration-under-agarose tests as a response to whole trout serum. Trout leukocytes thus altered normal migratory activities in response to chemical changes in their immediate environment. The role of complement in chemotaxis may be similar in fish and mammals.
Inside Windows An Alternative to Conventional Windows in Offices and Other Settings

People prefer to have windows in many spaces. However, there are spaces such as the interior of large buildings where it is not possible to have windows. In some of these situations, people could h...
Fine-grain discrete Voronoi diagram algorithms in L1 and L∞ norms

The well-known Voronoi diagram problem partitions a space containing a finite set of points, P, in such a way that each partition contains a single point in P and the subspace for which it is the nearest point from the set. Adamatzky defined the Discrete Voronoi Diagram (DVD) problem as finding the Voronoi diagram in a discrete lattice. Adamatzky proposed some efficient algorithms for computing DVDs on fine grained synchronous single instruction multiple data (SIMD) mesh architectures when either the L"1 or the L"~ distance metric is used. This paper presents improvements to Adamatzky's algorithms that ensure their correctness without increasing their complexity.
Comparison of crosswell diffraction tomography to Kirchhoff migration

Crosswell seismic diffraction tomography is a new waveform inversion algorithm and has great potential for producing higher resolution images than conventional traveltime tomography. The objective of this paper is to identify the inherent relationship between diffraction tomography and Kirchhoff migration. Both of them can be considered as multi-dimentional inverse scattering problems. However, it is found that crosswell diffraction tomography inverts for the low-wavenumber components of the velocity scattering potential, while Kirchhoff migration inverts for the high-wavenumber components. To achieve the highest image resolution, both low-wavenumber components and high wavenumbers should be recovered; this means that diffraction tomography and wave-equation migration should be integrated in order to obtain the full-wavenumber spectrum images.
Sugar infusion can enhance feeding

An investigation was made of the role of glucose in the regulation of hunger and satiety in the rabbit. Glucose, when infused intraduodenally at a low rate (1 milliliter per minute), produced a decrease in food intake. However, when glucose was infused into the duodenum at a high rate (3 milliliters per minute), the rabbits nearly doubled their food intake during the first half-hour after infusion. It is hypothesized that the rapid arrival and glucose in the duodenum may produce hunger.
PHOTON-AVALANCHE UPCONVERSION IN THULIUM-DOPED LUTETIUM ALUMINUM GARNET

Strong blue fluorescence at 487 nm corresponding to the 1G4 → 3H6 transition was generated from Tm3+-doped lutetium aluminum garnet on excitation with a 618-nm dye laser as a result of a photon-avalanche upconversion mechanism.
Control of the Stereochemistry of Kinetic Protonation: Intramolecular Proton Delivery1,2

Four decades ago, we noted that for delocalized carbanions and enols the protonation transition state is close to sp2 hybridized and that, as a consequence, under kinetic control protonation takes place from the less hindered approach, most often with formation of the less stable of two possible stereoisomers. The initial report was followed by an extensive series of examples. Nevertheless, a major question remained, namely whether it was possible to deliver the proton to the more hindered face of such a species using intramolecular proton transfer. To this end, silyl ether precursors to the enols of 3-benzoyl-endo-6-phenyl-exo-6-pyridylbicyclo[3.1.0]hexane and its endo-6-pyridyl-exo-6-phenyl stereoisomer were synthesized. The corresponding enols were generated with fluoride anion. The endo-phenyl enol stereoisomers, on kinetic protonation, led stereoselectively to the endo-3-benzoyl product resulting from the less hindered protonation. In stark contrast, the endo-6-pyridyl enol isomer led stereoselective...
Role of silicon in diatom metabolism III. The effects of silicic acid on DNA polymerase, TMP kinase and DNA synthesis in Cylindrotheca fusiformis☆

Abstract 1. An enzyme with the characteristics of a DNA polymerase was found in cell-free extracts of the diatom Cylindrotheca fusiformis . The activity occurring in the 40 000 × g supernatant fraction required denatured DNA, Mg 2+ , the four deoxyribonucleoside 5′-triphosphates, and was stimulated 50–150 % by 2 mM ATP. It was found to be inhibited by p- chloromercuribenzoate , N- ethylmaleimide and the 5′-triphosphate of 1β- d -arabinofuranosylcytosine. 2. DNA polymerase specific activity fluctuates during the light-dark synchronized division cycle of C. fusiformis . The fluctuation is not the result of cyclic influence of effectors, deoxyribonuclease activity, limitation of precursors, or change in enzyme location. 3. There was 64 % less DNA polymerase activity in sychronized cells deprived of silicic acid than in control cells grown in the presence of silicic acid. An immediate and specific increase in DNA polymerase and TMP kinase specific activities and in DNA net synthesis occurred in silicic acid-deprived cells upon the addition of silicic acid to the culture medium; however, stimulation of these enzymes by silicic acid could not be demonstrated in vitro . 4. Stimulation of the enzyme activity during the division cycle of synchronized cells previously starved for 24 h was sensitive to inhibitors of protein synthesis but not to actinomycin D. It appears, therefore, that silicic acid may increase the activity of TMP kinase and DNA polymerase by acting at some post-transcriptional site. 5. After stimulation by silicic acid, continued DNA net synthesis was dependent at all times on concomitant protein synthesis.
Neuronal Classification and Marker Gene Identification via Single-Cell Expression Profiling of Brainstem Vestibular Neurons Subserving Cerebellar Learning

Identification of marker genes expressed in specific cell types is essential for the genetic dissection of neural circuits. Here we report a new strategy for classifying heterogeneous populations of neurons into functionally distinct types and for identifying associated marker genes. Quantitative single-cell expression profiling of genes related to neurotransmitters and ion channels enables functional classification of neurons; transcript profiles for marker gene candidates identify molecular handles for manipulating each cell type. We apply this strategy to the mouse medial vestibular nucleus (MVN), which comprises several types of neurons subserving cerebellar-dependent learning in the vestibulo-ocular reflex. Ion channel gene expression differed both qualitatively and quantitatively across cell types and could distinguish subtle differences in intrinsic electrophysiology. Single-cell transcript profiling of MVN neurons established six functionally distinct cell types and associated marker genes. This strategy is applicable throughout the nervous system and could facilitate the use of molecular genetic tools to examine the behavioral roles of distinct neuronal populations.
Graphical solutions to orbital mechanics problems.

For this system and for the range of angular velocities of interest (0 to l°/sec), Eq. (38) will show that | /| is well within the capabilities of man. In fact, for w = 425 Ib, oj0 = I/ sec, and s = r& = 2 fps, |/| = 10 Ib. For 5 = 5 fps, |/| 67 Ib. For the general solution discussed earlier, the computer solutions of Eqs. (34) for the same paths as used previously gave |/| always less than 20 Ib.
Stochastic simulation of single-molecule pulling experiments

Single-molecule pulling experiments are widely used for studying the structure, dynamics, and function of single biological molecules via applying mechanical forces on them in a controlled way. Pulling at a constant speed or at a constant force builds up a mechanical force on a molecule or molecular complex leading to a molecular transition such as the dissociation of a molecular complex, unfolding of a protein, or unwrapping of a higher-order structure. We perform Brownian dynamics and Monte Carlo simulations of single-molecule pulling experiments. Through our simulations we demonstrate that the molecular transition rate based on the Kramers theory in the high-barrier limit becomes unsuitable as the applied force approaches the critical force at which the barrier disappears. We also demonstrate that use of molecular transition rate based on mean first passage time (MFPT) approach would be more relevant in describing molecular transition especially as the applied force approaches the critical force.
A graphics interface for linear programming

We describe the interface to a software system that assists users in the process of formulating linear programming models. The main idea is to introduce a new representation that allows modelers to depict their problems in a graphical rather than mathematical form. This representation is described in detail together with a number of other interface design principles that we believe will aid modelers—including hierarchical decomposition, multiple model representations, alternative formulation approaches, the use of model templates, and database and model management facilities. These features are illustrated using the output of a prototype system formulating a realistic LP problem.
Host‐plant preference of Brachypterolus pulicarius, an inadvertently introduced biological control insect of toadflaxes

Brachypterolus pulicarius (L.) (Coleoptera: Kateridae) is an inadvertently introduced biological control agent that can reduce seed set in two North American invasive species, yellow (Linaria vulgaris P. Mill.) (Scrophulariaceae) and Dalmatian toadflax (Linaria genistifolia (L.) P. Mill. ssp. dalmatica). The beetles are more common on yellow toadflax than on Dalmatian toadflax. To understand their distribution on the two host plants, we investigated whether they prefer one host to the other and whether individuals aggregate toward conspecifics. In field and laboratory experiments where beetles were presented with a choice of both toadflax species, B. pulicarius sampled from both host plants preferred yellow toadflax. However, in the laboratory experiment, beetles collected from Dalmatian toadflax showed a weaker preference for yellow toadflax than beetles collected from yellow toadflax. In the field experiment, all beetle populations sampled showed similar preferences. When given a choice between yellow toadflax plants with and without trapped adult B. pulicarius, beetles preferred plants with conspecifics, suggesting aggregation toward beetle pheromones or host-plant volatiles induced by beetle activity. These results do not support the current practice of redistributing North American B. pulicarius onto Dalmatian toadflax because of their preference for yellow toadflax.
Buckling-driven delamination of carbon nanotube forests

We report buckling-driven delamination of carbon nanotube (CNT) forests from their growth substrates when subjected to compression. Macroscale compression experiments reveal local delamination at the CNT forest-substrate interface. Results of microscale flat punch indentations indicate that enhanced CNT interlocking at the top surface of the forest accomplished by application of a metal coating causes delamination of the forest from the growth substrate, a phenomenon not observed in indentation of as-grown CNT forests. We postulate that the post-buckling tensile stresses that develop at the base of the CNT forests serve as the driving force for delamination.
Serum Vitamin D Metabolites in Colorectal Cancer Patients Receiving Cholecalciferol Supplementation: Correlation with Polymorphisms in the Vitamin D Genes

Cholecalciferol (D3) supplementation results in variable increases in serum 25(OH)D3 levels, however, the influence of genetic polymorphisms on these variable responses is unclear. We measured serum 25(OH)D3, 24,25(OH)2D3, 1,25(OH)2D3 and VDBP levels in 50 colorectal cancer (CRC) patients before and during 2,000 IU daily oral D3 supplementation for six months and in 263 archived CRC serum samples. Serum PTH levels and PBMC 24-OHase activity were also measured during D3 supplementation. TagSNPs in CYP2R1, CYP27A1, CYP27B1, CYP24A1, VDR, and GC genes were genotyped in all patients, and the association between these SNPs and serum vitamin D3 metabolites levels before and after D3 supplementation was analyzed. The mean baseline serum 25(OH)D3 level was less than 32 ng/mL in 65 % of the 313 CRC patients. In the 50 patients receiving D3 supplementation, serum levels of 25(OH)D3 increased (p = 0.008), PTH decreased (p = 0.036) and 24,25(OH)2D3, 1,25(OH)2D3, VDBP levels and PBMC 24-OHase activity were unchanged. GC SNP rs222016 was associated with high 25(OH)D3 and 1,25(OH)2D3 levels at baseline while rs4588 and rs2282679 were associated with lower 25(OH)D3 and 1,25(OH)2D3 levels both before and after D3 supplementation. CYP2R1 rs12794714 and rs10500804 SNPs were significantly associated with low 25(OH)D3 levels after supplementation but not with baseline 25(OH)D3. Our results show that D3 supplementation increased 25(OH)D3 levels in all patients. GC rs4588 and rs2283679 SNPs were associated with increased risk of vitamin D3 insufficiency and suboptimal increase in 25(OH)D3 levels after D3 supplementation. Individuals with these genotypes may require higher D3 supplementation doses to achieve vitamin D3 sufficiency.
Passive Backscatter Biotelemetry for Neural Interfacing

Wireless telemetry of low level biopotentials from bioelectrodes can be accomplished over decimeter-order distances by using the biopotential to directly modulate the characteristics of a simple passive resonant circuit consisting of two varactor diodes and an inductor. Backscattered radio frequency energy at or near the circuit resonance in the 300 MHz region is amplitude modulated by the biopotential and detected by a remote receiver. The varactor circuit exhibits a high input impedance suited to bioelectrodes and a sensitivity to submillivolt levels. The circuit is miniaturizable to several cubic millimeters and can be realized with conventional commercially available surface mount components.
Biochemical alterations in inflammatory periodontal diseases I. - Poly (ADP-ribose) synthetase activity in gingiva and gingival fibroblasts from humans with periodontitis

Periodontal diseases are characterized in part by generation of oxygen free radicals, which can cause breaks in cellular DNA strands. Repair of damaged DNA is dependent upon the synthesis of poly (ADP-ribose)(PADPR) catalyzed by PADPR synthetase, an enzyme known to be activated by the broken ends of DNA strands. We measured the activities of PADPR synthetase and of PADPR glycohydrolase, which degrades PADPRS, in gingival biopsy specimens from 16 sites with adult periodontitis and 12 clinically healthy control sites. The results indicated that sites with periodontitis displayed markedly reduced PADPR synthetase activity compared with healthy control sites, whereas PADPR glycohydrolase activity was not changed. The mean specific activity of PADPR synthetase for the diseased specimens was one-sixth of that of the healthy specimens (p < 0.001). The PADPR synthetase activity was negatively correlated with the Gingival Index (rs = -0.60), pocket depth (rs = -0.70) and bleeding upon probing (rs = -0.72). Cultured fibroblasts derived from clinically characterized healthy and diseased gingival sites reflected similar patterns of enzyme activity. The mean specific activity of PADPR synthetase for the diseased-site cultures (n = 9) was 56 +/- 7% (p < 0.001) of the cultures from healthy control sites (n = 6). These results suggest that a reduced level of PADPR synthetase activity is associated with increased inflammation and periodontal destruction, and that the ability to synthesize PADPR is compromised in adult periodontitis.
On the blow-up rate of large solutions for a porous media logistic equation on radial domain

In this paper we establish the exact blow-up rate of the large solutions of a porous media logistic equation. We consider the carrying capacity function with a general decay rate at the boundary instead of the usual cases when it can be approximated by a distant function. Obtaining the accurate blow-up rate allows us to establish the uniqueness result. Our result covers all previous results on the ball domain and can be further adapted in a more general domain.
The effect of predatory fish exudates on the ovipostional behaviour of three mosquito species: Culex quinquefasciatus, Aedes aegypti and Culex tarsalis

Three mosquito species, Culex tarsalis Coquillett, Culex quinquefasciatus Say and Aedes aegypti L. (Diptera: Culicidae), were examined in laboratory binary choice experiments to investigate whether fish exudates from the mosquitofish, Gambusia affinis (Baird & Girard) (Cyprinodontiformes: Poecilliidae), deter oviposition and whether the responses of these mosquito species to fish exudates in oviposition sites are consistent with the risk of predation from fish experienced by each species in their respective natural breeding habitats. Culex tarsalis was deterred significantly from egg laying by the presence of fish exudates in oviposition cups, consistent with high levels of predation by fish in natural breeding sites. Egg laying by Cx quinquefasciatus was slightly reduced in water with fish exudates, but was not consistently deterred by water conditioned by mosquitofish, consistent with the species' relatively low risk of fish predation in natural habitats. Oviposition by container-breeding Ae. aegypti was not deterred by the presence of fish exudates in oviposition cups, consistent with a low risk of predation by fish in natural habitats.
The Scalability Studies of CAN Bus Based on SONEC

There is great significance to deliver as much as possible valid data by making full use of CAN bus network limited bandwidth in the case of fixed baud rate for network. Because the CAN network data transmission efficiency optimization method (SONEC) can improve the efficiency of data transmission network based on CAN bus; by using this method the author studied the bus network scalability, and found that the use of the constructing network method can significantly improve the scalability performance of bus network. A CAN bus example as the research object is used for contrast analysis to prove the analysis validity. The method studied above has the important significance to CAN bus network structure.
The avian major histocompatibility complex influences bacterial skeletal disease in broiler breeder chickens.

This study evaluated bacterial skeletal disease in conjunction with the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) in a genetically pure line of broiler breeder chickens. Chickens from six broiler breeder flocks were examined for skeletal lesions, bacterial pathogens, and MHC genotype. During a 10-week period, eighty- eight, 9- to 21-week-old lame chickens and 34 normal, age-matched controls were selected. Tenosynovitis, arthritis, and femoral or tibiotarsal (or both) osteomyelitis occurred in 86 of 88 (97.7%) lame chickens. Ninety- five bacterial isolates were obtained from 83 of 88 (94.3%) lame birds and 4 of 34 (11.8%) controls. Staphy- lococcus spp. was isolated from 72.6% of the skeletal lesions, predominantly Staphylococcus aureus (38.9%). MHC B complex genotypes were determined by hemagglutination for 88 lame birds, 34 controls, and 200 randomly selected birds from each of the six flocks (1,200 total). Combined chi-square analysis revealed that the homozygous MHC genotypes B A4/A4 ( 2 14.54, P 0.0063) and B A12/A12 ( 2 42.77, P 0.0001) were overrepresented in the sample of symptomatic birds compared with random samples from the same flocks. The homozygous A4 and A12 MHC genotypes influenced flock chi-square values more than the corresponding heterozygotes. An MHC B complex influence on bacterial skeletal disease was apparent in this line of broiler breeders.
Regulation of immune function by calorie restriction and cyclophosphamide treatment in lupus-prone NZB/NZW F1 mice.

Abstract We compared the effects of calorie restriction (CR) and cyclophosphamide (CTX) on the progression of lupus nephritis and immunological changes in NZB/NZW F1 mice. Ad libitum (AL)/CTX and CR delayed onset of proteinuria and significantly decreased serum levels of anti-dsDNA, anti-histone, and circulating immune complex antibodies. CTX and CR prevented the increase in and activation of B cells, the decline in CD8+ T cells, and maintained a higher proportion of naive CD4+ and CD8+ cells. MHC class I antigen and LFA-1 expression on CD8+ T cells and MHC class II antigen on B cells were also decreased. AL/CTX and CR prevented the increase in production of IL-10 and up-regulated IL-2 production in T cells ex vivo. We concluded that both CR and CTX can delay the onset of autoimmune disease, in part by maintaining higher numbers of naive T cells and the immune responsiveness of T cells and decreasing the proportion of B cells.
Cardiac magnetic resonance: Is it time to replace the endomyocardial biopsy to detect heart transplant rejection?

See Related Article, page 643 In this issue of the Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation, Butler et al report the results of a single-center study that evaluates the diagnostic accuracy of cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to both endomyocardial biopsy (EMB) and clinically diagnosed heart transplant rejection. They find that combining the threshold of right ventricular end-diastolic volume index (RVEDVI) and T2 relaxation time (representing myocardial edema) predicts EMB-proven rejection with good accuracy, high sensitivity and specificity, and good negative predictive value. Furthermore, this combination was more sensitive than EMB at predicting clinical rejection. The authors are to be congratulated on an innovative study that brings to the forefront this timely issue of a noninvasive imaging modality to detect rejection. There are several questions to be asked: Is there an unmet need for non-invasive rejection surveillance? What is the efficacy of this modality compared with EMB and other non-invasive methods? What are the concerns with cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) as a surveillance strategy? Cardiac rejection is a common problem, experienced by 20% to 50% of patients at least once during the first year after cardiac transplantation, and is associated with graft dysfunction and subsequent poor outcomes. Currently, the EMB is the gold standard for rejection surveillance after transplant. However, the EMB is invasive, uncomfortable for many patients, and has the potential for rare but serious complications, including tricuspid regurgitation, transient ventricular arrhythmias, and myocardial perforation. Concerns regarding interobserver variability and sampling error of EMB pathology findings have also been raised. In addition, there are times when a patient has an acute decrease in echocardiographic left ventricular ejection fraction with a negative EMB. These episodes are assumed to be acute rejection and are termed “biopsy-negative rejection”. Thus, there exists an unmet need for a reliable, accurate, non-invasive means to detect rejection.
Sierra Nevada uplift: A ductile link to mantle upwelling under the Basin and Range province

Recent geophysical studies in the southern Sierra Nevada found no significant Airy-type crustal root; the mountain range seems largely supported by the buoyant asthenosphere beneath an abnormally thin mantle lithosphere. We suggest that the late Cenozoic uplift of the Sierra Nevada may have resulted from mantle upwelling under the Basin and Range province, which tends to push ductile material within the surrounding lithosphere, causing it to flow away and downward. Numerical modeling indicates that such ductile flow could lead to pronounced lithospheric thinning under the High Sierra and lithospheric thickening under the western Sierra Nevada, comparable to the observed structure.
Relationship Between Juxtapapillary Choroidal Volume and Beta-Zone Parapapillary Atrophy in Eyes With and Without Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma

Purpose To evaluate whether quantity of choroidal tissue directly adjacent to the optic nerve differs between eyes with and without glaucoma and whether beta-zone parapapillary atrophy influences this relationship. Design Prospective cohort study. Methods Subjects were enrolled in a longitudinal, observational study at our institution. We studied 1 eye of 63 primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), 30 ocular hypertension (OH), and 48 control subjects. Using optical coherence tomography enhanced depth imaging, we acquired 12 radial scans centered on the optic nerve head with 15 degrees of separation between scans. After images were enhanced, segmented, and corrected for ocular magnification, juxtapapillary choroidal volumetric parameters were calculated using raw thickness measurements and standard interpolation techniques. Juxtapapillary choroidal volume was then compared by diagnosis and by beta-zone parapapillary atrophy status. Results Total juxtapapillary choroidal volume was significantly reduced in POAG vs OH and control eyes (1.057 vs 1.228 vs 1.255 μL, P = .04) and it was reduced in eyes with vs without beta-zone parapapillary atrophy (1.076 μL, n = 80 vs 1.306 μL, n = 61, P P = .02). Furthermore, POAG eyes with beta-zone parapapillary atrophy had substantially lower juxtapapillary choroidal volume compared to POAG eyes without beta-zone parapapillary atrophy (0.957 vs 1.356 μL, P Conclusions The volume of choroid adjacent to the optic nerve was significantly reduced in POAG eyes when beta-zone parapapillary atrophy was present, suggesting that beta-zone parapapillary atrophy may be a biomarker for juxtapapillary choroidal atrophy and associated vascular compromise in POAG.
HLA Haplotypes in Familial Graves’Disease

In order to further elucidate the genetics of Graves' disease, we studied two families with several affected members, as well as tested the degree to which HLA haplotypes were shared in affected sibpairs. Further, we sought to identify the disease related haplotypes by determining the haplotypes shared among affected parent-child combinations. In one family, two affected sibs differed at four possible parental HLA haplotypes; no evidence of recombination was observed which could account for the result. In the other family, five siblings were affected. Four out of the five affected sibs shared the maternal haplotype HLA-A11, Bw51, Cw5, Cw-, DRw5, Bfs, GLO1, whereas three shared the paternal haplotype HLA-A1, B8, Cw-, DRw3, BfS and GLO1. Looking at haplotype sharing, two pairs of sibs were found to be HLA identical, whereas the fifth sib shared one haplotype with one of these pairs but not with the other. Out of 14 (eight of our own and six from the literature) affected sibpairs examined, nine were found to be HLA identical and four shared one haplotype, suggesting that the contribution of both paternal haplotypes may be necessary for the susceptibility to the disease. Fourteen parent-child combinations were studied; in only three out of 13 in which the shared haplotype could be ascertained was the haplotype B8 positive; this distribution is similar to controls. However, of the remaining 10 combinations which did not share a B8 positive haplotype, five were B8 positive at one or the other of the non-shared haplotypes.
An efficient graph-mining method for complicated and noisy data with real-world applications

In this paper, we present a novel graph database-mining method called APGM (APproximate Graph Mining) to mine useful patterns from noisy graph database. In our method, we designed a general framework for modeling noisy distribution using a probability matrix and devised an efficient algorithm to identify approximate matched frequent subgraphs. We have used APGM to both synthetic data set and real-world data sets on protein structure pattern identification and structure classification. Our experimental study demonstrates the efficiency and efficacy of the proposed method.
Temperature Dependence of Gas-Particle Partitioning of Primary Organic Aerosol Emissions from a Small Diesel Engine

A new experimental technique has been developed to study the gas–particle partitioning behavior of primary organic aerosol (POA) emissions from combustion sources at atmospherically relevant concentrations. The technique involves slowly filling a Teflon chamber with a constant emission source. As aerosol concentrations increase inside the chamber, the gas–particle partitioning of semivolatile organics shifts to the particle phase, thus increasing the fuel-based POA emission factor. The technique allows characterization of partitioning under isothermal conditions and atmospherically relevant concentrations. The technique was evaluated using emissions from a small diesel engine; the measured changes in gas–particle partitioning agreed well with previously published data for this engine measured with a dilution sampler. The temperature dependence of the gas–particle partitioning was investigated by conducting experiments at three different temperatures (15°C, 26°C, and 33°C). Increasing organic aerosol conce...
Effects of an Attachment‐Based Intervention on Child Protective Services–Referred Mothers' Event‐Related Potentials to Children's Emotions

This study examined the neurobiology of maternal sensitivity to children's emotions among mothers involved with Child Protective Services (CPS) and low-risk comparison mothers (M(age) = 31.6 years). CPS-referred mothers participated in the Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch-up (ABC) intervention or a control intervention. Mothers' event-related potentials (ERPs) were measured while they categorized images of children with crying, laughing, and neutral expressions. CPS-referred ABC mothers (n = 19) and low-risk comparison mothers (n = 30) showed a larger enhancement of ERP responses for emotional faces relative to neutral faces than CPS-referred control mothers (n = 21). Additionally, the magnitude of ERP responses to emotional faces was associated with observed maternal sensitivity. Findings add to the understanding of the neurobiology of deficits in parenting and suggest that these deficits are changeable through a parenting intervention.
The radical stabilization energy of a substituted carbon-centered free radical depends on both the functionality of the substituent and the ordinality of the radical.

Chemical intuition suggests that the stabilization of a carbon-centered free radical by a substituent X would be the greatest for a prim and least for a more stable tert radical because of “saturat...
Analysis of open dielectric waveguides using the finite-element penalty method

This paper analyzes open dielectric waveguides using the vector finite-element method and boundary integral equations derived from the second Green's theorem. This finite-element formulation, together with the boundary operator, is solved using a penalty function method. Comparison with previously published results shows good agreement for the analysis of the rectangular dielectric waveguide.
KDEL-Containing Auxin-Binding Protein Is Secreted to the Plasma Membrane and Cell Wall'

The auxin-binding protein ABP1 has been postulated to mediate auxin-induced cellular changes associated with cell expansion. This protein contains the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) retention signal, the tetrapeptide lysine-aspartic acid-glutamic acid-leucine (KDEL), at its carboxy terminus, consistent with previous subcellular fractionation data that indicated an ER location for ABP1. We used electron microscopic immunocytochemistry to identify the subcellular localization of ABP1. Using maize (Zea mays) coleoptile tissue and a black Mexican sweet (BMS) maize cell line, we found that ABP1 is located in the ER as expected, but is also on or closely associated with the plasma membrane and within the cell wall. Labeling of the Golgi apparatus suggests that the transport of ABP1 to the cell wall occurs via the secretory system. Inhibition of secretion of an ABP homolog into the medium of BMS cell cultures by brefeldin A, a drug that specifically blocks secretion, is consistent with this secretion pathway. The secreted protein was recognized by an anti-KDEL peptide antibody, strongly supporting the interpretation that movement of this protein out of the ER does not involve loss of the carboxy-terminal signal. Cells starved for 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid for 72 h retained less ABP in the cell and secreted more of it into the medium. The significance of our observations is 2-fold. We have identified a KDEL-containing protein that specifically escapes the ER retention system, and we provide an explanation for the apparent discrepancy that most of the ABP is located in the ER, whereas ABP and auxin act at the plasma membrane.
Recent advancements in differential proteomics based on stable isotope coding

Stable isotope coding continues to be a powerful approach in comparative proteomics. This review focuses on recent developments in stable isotope coding-based strategies targeted towards protein expression, protein interactions with other biomolecules, post-translational modifications and absolute quantification. The focus of the bulk of proteomics studies is still on protein expression. An important recent application of isotope coding has been in organelle proteomics. The review ends with the conclusion that isotope coding remains an integral part of quantitative proteomics. There is, however, a need to develop coding strategies which can differentiate changes in protein expression and post-translational modification, address issues of protein dynamic range and facilitate real-time detection of proteins which show a statistically significant change after stimulus.
Knowledge of Aging: A Cross-Sectional Study of Three Different Age Groups.

A study was conducted to determine factual accuracy of youngsters’ knowledge about older people and the moderating effect on knowledge level resulting from differences in age/education, sex, racial origin, and experience living in a household with an older person. The 208 youngsters in the sample were drawn from middle schools, high schools, and college in three Florida counties. Palmore's Facts on Aging Quiz was administered, overall and item error rates determined, and comparative analyses made for each of the four hypothesized moderator variables. Findings revealed a negative bias toward older people by all three age/educational level groups, and common misconceptions were observed on a number of specific dimensions of knowledge about the elderly.
Allergic Aspergillus sinusitis-a newly recognized form of sinusitis-

The clinical and pathologic features of seven cases of a newly recognized form of chronic sinusitis are described. Most patients were young adults with a history of asthma, and all had chronic nasal polyps. Radiographically, there was opacification of multiple sinuses. Recurrent sinusitis was common, and several patients underwent numerous surgical drainage procedures. Histologically, a distinct mucinous material containing eosinophils, Charcot-Leyden crystals, and fungal hyphae was found in tissue resected from the sinuses. We believe that these findings constitute a distinct clinicopathologic entity that we term allergic Aspergillus sinusitis. This condition shares similar histopathologic features with allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) but affects the paranasal sinuses rather than the lung. Implications for therapy of this form of sinusitis and its possible relationship to allergic lung diseases are discussed.
A FPGA-Based Approach to the Digital Control of a Class-D Amplifier for Sound Applications

The continuing trend in audio amplifier technology is towards more compact systems, lower distortion levels, and greater power efficiency. Thus, the relatively new consensus in the audio industry is the class-D amplifier, which generally uses compact H-bridge power inverters and a highly power-efficient, high frequency PWM switching scheme which yields little distortion after filtering. This paper presents an on-going research effort with the class-D amplifier that focuses on keeping the audio signal chain in the digital domain until just before the output filter stage that drives the speaker, which prevents transmission noise from distorting the audio signal and also provides the opportunity for a digital closed-loop control system for generating switching commands. Different solutions for the control system are theoretically and experimentally compared. The hardware structure is composed of a host computer, a board featuring a DSP chip coupled with a FPGA, a silicon H-bridge power inverter, a signal conditioning stage, and an ultra fast ADC
Alternative Treatments in Pediatric Bipolar Disorder

There has been growing interest in the use of complementary and alternative treatments in pediatric bipolar disorder (BPD). There are limited data, however, regarding the safety and efficacy of these treatments. This article discusses select complementary and alternative treatments that have been considered for use in pediatric BPD and/or depression, including omega-3-fatty acids, inositol, St. John's wort, SAMe, melatonin, lecithin, and acupuncture. Background information, reference to available adult and pediatric data, proposed mechanisms of action, dosing, side effects, and precautions of these treatments are included. Across the board, more research is necessary and warranted regarding the long-term safety and efficacy of available complementary and alternative treatments for the management of pediatric BPD.
Eplerenone improves prognosis in postmyocardial infarction diabetic patients with heart failure: results from EPHESUS.

Background: The Epleronone Post-Acute Myocardial Infarction Heart Failure Efficacy and Survival Study (EPHESUS) trial demonstrated that selective aldosterone blockade with eplerenone significantly reduced total mortality by 15%, combined cardiovascular (CV) mortality/CV hospitalization by 13%, CV mortality by 17% and sudden cardiac death by 21%, vs. placebo when added to standard care in patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD) and signs of congestive heart failure (CHF) following acute myocardial infarction (AMI). We retrospectively evaluated the effect of eplerenone vs. placebo in a subset of 1483 diabetic patients with LVSD and signs of CHF following AMI. Methods: Diabetic status was determined from medical histories at screening. Analyses were based on time to first occurrence of an event. Results were based on a Cox’s proportional hazards regression model stratified by region with treatment, subgroup and treatment-by-subgroup interaction as factors. The 95% confidence intervals for the risk ratios were based on the Wald’s test. Results: Treatment with eplerenone in diabetic patients with CHF following AMI reduced the risk of the primary endpoint, a composite of CV mortality or CV hospitalization, by 17% (p = 0.031). The absolute risk reduction of the primary endpoint was greater in the diabetic cohort (5.1%) than in the non-diabetic cohort (3%). Hyperkalaemia occurred more often with eplerenone than with placebo (5.6 vs. 3%, p = 0.015). Among the diabetic cohorts, the prespecified endpoint of ‘any CV disorder’ occurred in 28% of the eplerenone group and 35% of the placebo group (p = 0.007). Conclusion: Eplerenone treatment may reduce adverse CV events in diabetic patients with LVSD and signs of CHF following AMI.
Developing and assuring trustworthy Web services

Web services are emerging technologies that are changing the way we develop and use computer systems and software. Current Web services testing techniques are unable to assure the desired level of trustworthiness, which presents a barrier to WS applications in mission and business critical environments. This paper presents a framework that assures the trustworthiness of Web services. New assurance techniques are developed within the framework, including specification verification via completeness and consistency checking, specification refinement, distributed Web services development, test case generation, and automated Web services testing. Traditional test case generation methods only generate positive test cases that verify the functionality of software. The Swiss cheese test case generation method proposed in this paper is designed to perform both positive and negative testing that also reveal the vulnerability of Web services. This integrated development process is implemented in a case study. The experimental evaluation demonstrates the effectiveness of this approach. It also reveals that the Swiss cheese negative testing detects even more faults than positive testing and thus significantly reduces the vulnerability of Web services.
A Large Annual Cycle in Ozone above the Tropical Tropopause Linked to the Brewer–Dobson Circulation

Near-equatorial ozone observations from balloon and satellite measurements reveal a large annual cycle in ozone above the tropical tropopause. The relative amplitude of the annual cycle is large in a narrow vertical layer between 16 and 19 km, with approximately a factor of 2 change in ozone between the minimum (during NH winter) and maximum (during NH summer). The annual cycle in ozone occurs over the same altitude region, and is approximately in phase with the well-known annual variation in tropical temperature. This study shows that the large annual variation in ozone occurs primarily because of variations in vertical transport associated with mean upwelling in the lower stratosphere (the Brewer–Dobson circulation); the maximum relative amplitude peak in the lower stratosphere is collocated with the strongest background vertical gradients in ozone. A similar large seasonal cycle is observed in carbon monoxide (CO) above the tropical tropopause, which is approximately out of phase with ozone (associated with an oppositely signed vertical gradient). The observed ozone and CO variations can be used to constrain estimates of the seasonal cycle in tropical upwelling.
Living Learning Labs A Component of the University of Alabama's Engineering Math Advancement Program

The University of Alabama through sponsorship by the National Science Foundation’s Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Office implemented a summer bridge program entitled Engineering Math Advancement Program (E-MAP) incorporating Living Learning Laboratories developed by each of the engineering disciplines. In this paper the E-MAP is summarized and importance of introducing students to experimental, hand-on research at an early level is discussed. Paper also outlines the expected roles of a mentor to ensure the success of students. The impact of the hands-on experience on the student learning is given.
Dual fonts in a phase field model

Abstract We study a dual front behavior observed in a reaction–diffusion system arising initially in the context of phase field models. A precursor front propagates into a stable phase, generating a metastable “intermediate phase”. This intermediate phase then decays via an oscillating front, producing a periodic structure which later coarsens. Unlike previously studied models in which dual fronts appear, the appearance of the split front is controlled not by an interchange of wave speeds, but by the existence of the precursor wave. By means of an expansion in small thermal diffusivity, we argue that this behavior is generic.