cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Removal of a Mig1p Binding Site Converts a MAL63 Constitutive Mutant Derived by Interchromosomal Gene Conversion to Glucose Insensitivity

Maltose fermenting strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae have one or more complex loci called MAL. Each locus comprises at least three genes: MALx1 encodes maltose permease, MALx2 encodes maltase, and MALx3 encodes an activator of MALx1 and MALx2 (x denotes one of five MAL loci, with x = 1, 2, 3, 4, or 6). The MAL43(c) allele is constitutive and relatively insensitive to glucose repression. To understand better this unique phenotype of MAL43(c), we have isolated several MAL63(c) constitutive mutants from a MAL6 strain. All constitutive mutants remain glucose repressible, and all have multiple amino acid substitutions in the C-terminal region, now making this region of Mal63(c)p similar to that of Mal43(c)p. These changes have been generated by gene conversion, which transfers DNA from the telomeres of chromosome II and chromosome III or XVI to chromosome VIII (MAL6). The removal of a Mig1p binding site from the MAL63(c) promoter leads to a loss of glucose repression, imitating the phenotype of MAL43(c). Conversely, addition of a Mig1p binding site to the promoter of MAL43(c) converts it to glucose sensitivity. Mig1p modulation of Mal63p and Mal43p expression therefore plays a substantial role in glucose repression of the MAL genes.
Signalling crosstalk in B cells: managing worth and need

The B cell receptor (BCR) and the receptor for B cell-activating factor (BAFFR) have complementary roles in B cells: BCR signals provide a cell-intrinsic measure of suitability for negative or positive selection, whereas BAFFR responds to homeostatic demands based on a cell-extrinsic measure of the size of the mature B cell pool. Because continuous signals from both receptors are required for B cell survival, it is probable that there are mechanisms to integrate the selective and homeostatic signals from these receptors. In this Opinion article, I describe recent evidence to indicate that crosstalk between the downstream biochemical pathways of these receptors mediates this interdependence, such that BCR signals generate a limiting substrate for BAFFR signal propagation.
Opportunistic dual timer relay selection in MIMO relay networks

In this paper, we investigate opportunistic buffer-equipped, multi-antenna relay networks with a decode-and-forward relaying strategy. The channel that we are considering includes three key wireless channel effects: path loss, shadowing, and fast fading. We first analyze the direct communication outage probability, and based on that, analyze the opportunistic relay network's outage probability. For an opportunistic relay selection protocol, we consider max-max relay selection (MMRS), where two relays are involved in the relaying: one for the source data reception and the other for transmission to the destination. As a relay selection method, we suggest dual-timer relay selection (DTRS), which reduces channel estimation overhead and solves the full-buffer problem of a reception relay and the empty-buffer problem of a transmission relay in the MMRS protocol. Along with the DTRS protocol, we further investigate the optimal relay selection period for maximizing the throughput while avoiding selection overhead.
Evaluation of Nd-glass laser systems for incoherent Thomson scattering diagnostics of low density plasmas

Conventional Thomson scattering using a ruby laser evidences difficulty in scattered signal detection for electron densities <1013 cm−3. Use of a Nd-glass laser source in combination with appropriate detectors can result in gains in the resolution of scattered signal of at least 1 order of magnitude over a conventional ruby laser system. However, due to the ∼2.5-nm full bandwidth of a Nd-glass laser line, the electron temperature information in the incoherent scattered signal must be extracted from a Voigt profile, not from the usual Gaussian profile as when a ruby laser is used.
An investigation of the test-retest reliability of the stroop colorword test across two intervals

The Stroop Color- Word Test is frequently used in neuropsychological settings. However, there has been no rigorous evaluation of the test-retest reliability of the commercially available version of the Stroop. The present study investigated the test-retest reliability of the Stroop across two different time intervals. In addition, the standard error of prediction and the standard error of differences were computed, and applications of the results to the use of the Stroop to document change in cognitive rehabilitation are discussed.
The Persistence and Regularity of Electrical Activity in Whole Heart Explants

The electrical persistence and regularity of 143 chick embryo whole heart explants during nine days in culture is described. Details are given of culturing and surveillance of explants and handling of data. Over 90% of explants showed continuous electrical activity for nearly all of the first three days in culture. This percentage fell 6 % by the end of day three, 6 % during day four, 17 % on day five and more slowly thereafter. These changes possibly reflected inadequacies in the supernatant. The frequency and magnitude of change in the number of active cultures from one 15 second survey to the next slowly increased with a maximum of 1.2 cultures. It seemed that the failure of hearts to produce potentials was usually temporary and occurred in a rhythmic fashion. The difference between consecutive half-hour averages of the number of cultures showing activity during 15 out of every 20 seconds was relatively high initially, dropped during the second day then rose again. It was always small compared to the total number of cultures involved. Comparisons between the persistence of electrical function in whole heart explants in various supernatants showed that the one used in this study was least inadequate.
Electrocardiogram Abnormalities with Atazanavir and Lopinavir/Ritonavir

AbstractPurpose: Concurrent atazanavir (ATV) and lopinavir/ritonavir (LPV/r) may be useful for patients with extensive antiretroviral resistance; however, limited information exists concerning the pharmacokinetics and safety of this combination. Method: A parallel-arm pharmacokinetic study was conducted in HIV-infected patients (n = 10) using contemporary formulations of each agent. Intensive pharmacokinetics were conducted at Day 6 (ATV/r), Day 16 (ATV qd + LPV/r bid), and Day 20 (ATV + LPV/r qd) in Arm A and Day 6 (LPV/r) and Day 12 (LPV/r bid + ATV qd) in Arm B. Plasma ATV, LPV, and ritonavir concentrations were measured by HPLC-UV. Electrocardiograms (12-lead) and safety labs were conducted at each visit. Results: Prolonged PR and QRS intervals occurred in the majority of patients (mean increase: 16 ms and 5 ms, respectively; p ≤ .01). Two patients developed new-onset arrhythmias (bundle branch block, atrioventricular block), resulting in premature termination of the study. No change in ATV or LPV pha...
Hemodynamics in bicuspid aortic valve relatives with trileaflet aortic valves compared to normal controls using 4D flow MRI

Background Bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is known as the most common congenital anomaly and its complications (ascending aortic aneurysm, dissection) can lead to noticeable morbidity and mortality. There is increasing evidence that, in addition to its genetic background, changes in aortic hemodynamics may play an important role in the development of aortopathy in these patients. Studies have shown that BAV can substantially alter aortic hemodynamics, but it is unclear if the genetic basis can influence aortic properties and 3D blood flow in BAV relatives with normal tricuspid valves. In this study, we evaluated flow dynamics, aorta diameter and geometry in BAV relatives compared to normal volunteers using 4D flow MRI. Methods 15 controls and 3 families with one known BAV case in each family (Figure 1) underwent contrast agent enhanced (BAV relatives: MultiHance, controls: Ablavar) MRI (1.5 or 3T, Siemens, Germany) for the evaluation of ascending aorta (AAo) dimensions, aortic valve morphology, aortic shape, width to height ratio, and aortic 3D blood flow dynamics. To assess valve morphology and global cardiac function, breath-held, ECG-gated time-resolved (CINE) 2D balanced SSFP images were acquired. Aortic blood flow assessment was done using ECG and respiratory-gated CINE 3D phase-contrast MRI with 3D velocity encoding (4D flow) and full volumetric coverage (VENC = 150-250 cm/s, temporal resolution = 38.4-40.0 ms). Net flow and peak velocity were measured at the level of SOV (sinuses of valsalva), AAo (proximal to brachiocephalic trunk), distal aortic arch and descending aorta (DAo, level of left atrium) using commercial software (Ensight, CEI, NC). The presence and severity of helix and vortex flow was assessed by two readers using a defined 3-point grading scale in a blinded manner. Results Vortex and helix flow grading was performed with excellent inter-observer agreement (Cohen’ sk appa, = 0.73). Vortex flow was significantly more frequent in BAV relatives compared to controls (Figure 2, p < 0.001). Specifically, vortex flow was increased in the AAo (p < 0.004) and DAo (p < 0.025). Helix flow and flow parameters were similar in BAV relatives and controls. 47% of all BAV relatives had a different (p < 0.007) aortic shape than the typical round shape of the controls (93.3%). Peak velocity was reduced (p = 0.009) for gothic aortas and more vortices were found in cubic aortas (p < 0.001).
Effect of Kuwait oil field fires on human comfort and environment in Jubail, Saudi Arabia.

The plumes from the Kuwait oil field fires reduced hemispheric (total) solar radiation by 26–36% during January–June 1991 in Jubail (300 km SE of Kuwait City), Saudi Arabia. Residents feel noticeably cooler even though air temperatures have not been lowered significantly (up to June 1991). These observations support human comfort theories and demonstrate the importance of shade to comfort. The desirability of complete solar radiation measurements, including those of diffuse radiation, is indicated.
Commentary: Systemic Impact of Universal Pre-Kindergarten

I remember nearly 20 years ago, before e-mails, listservs, and blogs, participating in an intense discussion with a group of early childhood education and care (ECEC) program directors about the pr...
Noninvasive breathing analysis: repetitive chloral hydrate in neonatal guinea pigs.

A noninvasive method was used to record neonatal breathing, heart rate (HR), and the electroencephalogram (EEG) in guinea pig pups. Neonates were randomly assigned at birth to chloral hydrate (CH) or placebo (PLA) treatment. Treatments were administered 30 min before each study on days 1, 3, 5, 7, 14, and 21 after birth. Animals were studied while they breathed room air followed by air with 5% CO2 and 30% O2. CH decreased breathing frequency (f) and inspiratory minute volume (I), but not tidal volume (VT) during the first week (P < 0.05), and reduced the rate of growth throughout the study (P < 0.01), whereas breathing of CO2 increased f, VT, I, HR, and the relative power in the delta frequency band of the EEG. The percent change in VI induced by CO2, however, was not affected by drug treatment. There was a significant day of life effect on all breathing parameters and HR. CH has cumulative effects on breathing and growth that should be considered when it is used as a sedative for repeated neonatal studies in guinea pigs. © 1992 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Coarsening of step bunches in step flow growth: a reaction–diffusion model and its travelling wave solutions

Abstract We consider a model of the Frank impurity mechanism in step flow growth based on reaction–diffusion equations. The equations, based on the BCF model of crystal growth, are designed to capture the physics of both the diffusion of adatoms, and the appearance of impurities on the crystal surface following the model proposed by Frank. The model was originally considered by Kandel and Weeks [Physica D 66 (1993) 78; Phys. Rev. B 49 (1994) 5554; Phys. Rev. B 52 (1995) 2154]. The model is a fundamentally two-dimensional one. It exhibits quick formation of step bunches, followed by a much longer period of coarsening, in the direction lateral to the step flow direction. Using tools from the theory of reaction–diffusion equations we are able to reduce the complicated pattern formation of the model to a simple dynamical picture. In most regions, step bunches form quickly, and these step bunches are equilibrium solutions of the equations. As the step bunches form, transitions form between different step bunches. These transitions are travelling wave solutions of the equations. These travelling waves govern the coarsening process. The spatial patterns coarsen as the different travelling waves march across the surface of the crystal and encounter and annihilate each other. By classifying the equilibrium states and travelling waves of the equations we can collapse the number of travelling waves to a small reduced set. This reduction of the dynamics to travelling waves from a small set of equivalent classes, is the basis of a simple reduced model which, despite its simplicity, can capture in entirety the coarsening process arising from the original equations. Using this reduced model, we can investigate large scale nature of the coarsening process, and behaviour of the coarsening process, and reconsider some of the issues raised by Kandel and Weeks in their original analysis.
An Approximate Theory of Eddy-Current Loss in Transformer Cores Excited by Sine Wave or by Random Noise

An approximate theory is developed for the eddy-current loss in transformer cores excited by high-frequency (megacycle) sine waves and by broad-band (video) random noise. The boundary conditions are established, subject to which the field equations governing the distribution of the electric and magnetic fields in thin rectangular laminae are solved, and from which in turn are determined the skin depth δ o and mean eddy-current loss W for current and voltage-fed transformers. The voltage-fed case is considered in greater detail, as it is the more general analytically and the more common in practice. From it the constant-current or current-fed case is readily derived. Curves and formulas are given showing the variation of δ o and W with frequency and lamination thickness for a sine wave and for a uniform band of noise (f 2 -f 1 ) cycles wide. Among the results it is found that the skin depth decreases, as one would expect physically, with increasing lamination thickness, frequency, core conductivity, and effective permeability. The mean eddy-current loss in the constant-voltage transformer diminishes with increasing frequency or spectral width, because of skin effect, and increases with the thickness of the laminae. For voltage-fed transformers W varies approximately as the inverse square root of the bandwidth. On the other hand, W in the constant-current cases is found to vary about as (bandwidthf½). A short discussion of the advantages and limitations of the theory, of the approximations made, and of some of the considerations involved in reducing eddy-current loss is included.
Asymptotic solutions for tensile crack tip fields without kink-type shear bands in elastic-ideally plastic single crystals

Asymptotic solutions for the near-tip stress fields (and important features of the deformation fields) are derived for stationary plane strain tensile cracks in elastic-ideally plastic single crystals. The cases treated are (010) cracks pointing in the [101] direction, and (101) cracks in the [010] direction, for both FCC and BCC crystals that yield according to the critical resolved shear stress criterion. The objective is to derive solutions that concur with recent experimental studies and numerical discrete dislocation simulations of stationary crack tip fields in ductile single crystals. The solutions are derived within an extension of the framework laid down in the pioneering analysis of Rice (Mech. Mater. 6 (1987) 317). Rice's solutions for the near-tip fields for cracks of the types considered here are at yield at all angles about the crack tip, and necessarily involve rays of stress and displacement discontinuity, with the latter being of both slip and kink type. His solutions capture several important features of the experiments and discrete dislocation simulations; however, there are significant differences, a key one being that the experiments, and in most cases the discrete dislocation simulations, do not appear to exhibit kink-type shear concentrations for the symmetric crack orientations considered. Thus we seek here asymptotic near-tip solutions that are free of kink-type displacement discontinuities. This necessitates the introduction of sub-yield near-tip sectors to permit derivation of solutions that produce the high stress triaxiality expected ahead of a crack tip under well-contained yielding conditions. The resulting solutions show several interesting differences with Rice's solutions. A major one is that for cracks having the same orientations in FCC and BCC crystals, the near-tip stress fields in Rice's solutions have identical sector assemblies and thus very similar character, whereas the present solutions for the FCC and BCC cases differ substantially. Another difference is that for the two crack orientations noted above in an FCC crystal (or in a BCC crystal), Rice's near-tip stress field solutions are identical, whereas the present solutions differ substantially from one orientation to another. The experimental and discrete dislocation simulations confirm these features of the new solutions.
Sensitive and specific LC‐MS assay for quantification of digoxin in human plasma and urine

Digoxin, a commonly prescribed cardiac glycoside with a narrow therapeutic window, is routinely used in pharmacokinetic studies to assess the in vivo activity of the drug efflux pump P-glycoprotein. To minimize adverse events, a sub-therapeutic dose of digoxin is usually administered, producing low plasma concentrations requiring a sensitive detection technique. Commonly available immunoassay techniques do not provide the required sensitivity to measure these low plasma concentrations and are potentially non-specific in certain subject populations. Previously published mass spectrometric techniques require either large plasma volumes or a tandem mass spectrometer. To overcome these challenges we have developed a sensitive and specific LC-MS method for the quantification of digoxin in small volumes of human plasma and urine. Plasma (1 mL) was extracted with methyl t-butyl ether under basic conditions followed by LC-MS detection of the sodium adducts of digoxin (803.4 m/z) and digitoxin (787.4 m/z, internal standard). Linearity and accuracy were demonstrated across a wide range of digoxin plasma concentration (0.05-1.5 ng/mL). This specific, sensitive, validated digoxin LC-MS assay can be used to quantify sub-therapeutic digoxin plasma concentrations in men and women (pregnant and non-pregnant).
Patterning of NREM sleep periods in normals: an observation revisited.

Abstract Both the visual examination of all-night sleep recordings in both normals and patients, generated by a delta wave analyzer, and spectral analysis have suggested that delta wave sleep often appear to rise gradually during a NREM period and then to cease abruptly. Such observations by minute-by-minute computer plots of delta wave activity have strengthened the notion of a REM generator and/or a delta sleep generator in the central nervous system. We now report observations on a sample of 23 normal subjects under the age of 45 in which we investigated the ‘rise and fall’ of delta sleep activity during successive NREM periods. For these 23 normal subjects, significantly greater maximal decreases throughout the night were noted in each of these 4 NREM periods as compared to the maximal increases. Furthermore, these findings have implications for the understanding of the physiology of sleep and particularly the on- and off-generator of REM and NREM sleep.
New CCD imagers for adaptive optics wavefront sensors

We report on two recently developed charge-coupled devices (CCDs) for adaptive optics wavefront sensing, both designed to provide exceptional sensitivity (low noise and high quantum efficiency) in high-frame-rate low-latency readout applications. The first imager, the CCID75, is a back-illuminated 16-port 160×160-pixel CCD that has been demonstrated to operate at frame rates above 1,300 fps with noise of < 3 e-. We will describe the architecture of this CCD that enables this level of performance, present and discuss characterization data, and review additional design features that enable unique operating modes for adaptive optics wavefront sensing. We will also present an architectural overview and initial characterization data of a recently designed variation on the CCID75 architecture, the CCID82, which incorporates an electronic shutter to support adaptive optics using Rayleigh beacons.
Effect of Monascus Fermentation on the Characteristics of Mackerel Mince

To improve the characteristics of fish muscle, Monascus purpureus or Monascus species was inoculated in 2.1% rice powder broth containing 30% minced mackerel tissue to produce a fermented fish product. Enterbacteriaceae, Staphylococcus, and Pseudomonas were not present during the 7 d of fermentation at 25 °C. The activities of both amylase and acidic proteases were detected after 1 and 2 d of fermentation, respectively, and further increased during fermentation. The volatile base nitrogen of all Monascus fermented samples were lower than the limit of food regulation in Taiwan (< 25 mg/100 g) even after 7 d of fermentation. Hydrolysis of the muscle protein and accumulation of free amino acid were observed. The fermented fish products had good flavor and color that were highly likeable to the sensory panel.
Glutamate receptor‐mediated currents and toxicity in embryonal carcinoma cells

While primary neuronal cell cultures have been used to investigate excitotoxicity, development of cell lines exhibiting glutamate receptor-mediated death is desirable. P19 mouse embryonal carcinoma cells, exposed to retinoic acid and plated onto a layer of cultured mouse cortical glial cells, differentiated into neuron-like elements immunoreactive for neurofilaments and neuron-specific enolase. Whole-cell recordings revealed inward currents in response to extracellular application of either NMDA or kainate. The NMDA-induced currents exhibited a voltage-dependent blockade by magnesium, required glycine for maximal activation, and were blocked by the NMDA antagonist dizocilpine. Kainate-induced currents were blocked by the AMPA/kainate receptor antagonist CNQX. Exposure to 500 μM NMDA for 24 h destroyed most P19 cells (EC50 approximately 70 μM); death was prevented by dizocilpine or D-APV. Exposure to 500 μM kainate also resulted in widespread death reduced by CNQX. Thus differentiated P19 cells exhibited both excitatory amino acid responses and vulnerability to excitotoxicity, characteristic of CNS neurons. These cells may provide a genetically open system useful for studying glutamate receptor-mediated phenomena at a molecular level. © 1993 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
SUMOylation regulates ciliary localization of olfactory signaling proteins.

Cilia are evolutionarily conserved organelles found on many mammalian cell types, including neuronal populations. Although neuronal cilia, including those on olfactory sensory neurons (OSNs), are often delineated by localization of adenylyl cyclase 3 (AC3, also known as ADCY3), the mechanisms responsible for targeting integral membrane proteins are largely unknown. Post-translational modification by small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO) proteins plays an important role in protein localization processes such as nuclear–cytosolic transport. Here, we identified through bioinformatic analysis that adenylyl cyclases harbor conserved SUMOylation motifs, and show that AC3 is a substrate for SUMO modification. Functionally, overexpression of the SUMO protease SENP2 prevented ciliary localization of AC3, without affecting ciliation or cilia maintenance. Furthermore, AC3-SUMO mutants did not localize to cilia. To test whether SUMOylation is sufficient for cilia entry, we compared localization of ANO2, which possesses a SUMO motif, and ANO1, which lacks SUMOylation sites and does not localize to cilia. Introduction of SUMOylation sites into ANO1 was not sufficient for ciliary entry. These data suggest that SUMOylation is necessary but not sufficient for ciliary trafficking of select constituents, further establishing the link between ciliary and nuclear import.
The Experience and Expression of Emotion in the Workplace:A Study of a Corrections Organization

This study evaluated Rafaeli and Sutton's (1989) model of emotional expression in the workplace by examining descriptions of emotional interactions occurring among members of a state government agency. The results indicated that qualities of felt emotions influenced emotional expression, which in turn yielded changed relational perceptions and changed communication behavior subsequent to the emotional event. Content analysis of the event descriptions resulted in preliminary generalizations about the types of emotions experienced by members, the nature of repressed emotional messages, and the dimensions of relationship changes stemming from the emotional events. The results are interpreted as evidence of the importance of emotional communication in relationship reformulation and are consistent with Van Maanen and Kunda's (1989) recent depiction of emotional control as part of organizational culture.
Flat-panel detector, CCD cameras, and electron-beam-tube-based video for use in portal imaging

This paper provides a comparison of some imaging parameters of four portal imaging systems at 6 MV: a flat panel detector, two CCD cameras and an electron beam tube based video camera. Measurements were made of signal and noise and consequently of signal-to-noise per pixel as a function of the exposure. All systems have a linear response with respect to exposure, and with the exception of the electron beam tube based video camera, the noise is proportional to the square-root of the exposure, indicating photon-noise limitation. The flat-panel detector has a signal-to-noise ratio, which is higher than that observed with both CCD-Cameras or with the electron beam tube based video camera. This is expected because most portal imaging systems using optical coupling with a lens exhibit severe quantum-sinks. The measurements of signal-and noise were complemented by images of a Las Vegas-type aluminum contrast detail phantom, located at the ISO-Center. These images were generated at an exposure of 1 MU. The flat-panel detector permits detection of Aluminum holes of 1.2 mm diameter and 1.6 mm depth, indicating the best signal-to-noise ratio. The CCD-cameras rank second and third in signal-to- noise ratio, permitting detection of Aluminum-holes of 1.2 mm diameter and 2.2 mm depth (CCD_1) and of 1.2 mm diameter and 3.2 mm depth (CCD_2) respectively, while the electron beam tube based video camera permits detection of only a hole of 1.2 mm diameter and 4.6 mm depth. Rank Order Filtering was applied to the raw images from the CCD-based systems in order to remove the direct hits. These are camera responses to scattered x-ray photons which interact directly with the CCD of the CCD-Camera and generate 'Salt and Pepper type noise,' which interferes severely with attempts to determine accurate estimates of the image noise. The paper also presents data on the metal-phosphor's photon gain (the number of light-photons per interacting x-ray photon).
Compartmentalization of Eukaryotic Gene Expression: Causes and Effects

A critical examination of the literature does not support the idea that any pre-existing nuclear organization directs gene expression, but rather supports a model in which the expression of genes directs an apparent reorganization of nuclear components. Other nonhomogeneous distributions, such as coiled bodies or PML nuclear bodies (Strouboulis and Wolffe 1996xStrouboulis, J. and Wolffe, A.P. J. Cell. Sci. 1996; 109: 1991–2000PubMedSee all ReferencesStrouboulis and Wolffe 1996), may also arise by virtue of the principles enumerated here. Of course, it remains possible that pre-existing organized elements within the nucleus will eventually come to light, possibly in the form of interphase chromatin organization, or of the nucleoplasmic components of the NPC. In any case, it will be important to state the hypotheses and models clearly so that their predictions can be tested.
In-situ UV absorption CF2 sensor for reactive ion etch process control

In this article, we report the use of ultraviolet absorption spectroscopy for CF 2 detection in a large area parallel plate capacitively coupled reactive ion etching system and correlation of data from this and other plasma sensors to the etch rate of SiO 2 and a-Si in CF 4 /CHF 3 plasmas. We present statistical models for estimation of a- Si etch rate in the operational regime in which the CF 2 concentration is in the range of 0.4 approximately 1.6 volume % of total gas in the etch chamber. A small change in CF 2 concentration translates into quite a large variation in terms of SiO 2 /a-Si etch selectivity, and this makes CF 2 concentration a useful variable in process control. We will show statistically that silicon etch rates can be very well estimated by using sensors for CF 2 and fluorine.
The development of synapses and "spoon" synaptic terminal space in the tangential vestibular nucleus: a quantitative electron microscope study.

This developmental study focuses on the quantitation of synapses and synaptic terminal space belonging to one identifiable population of synaptic endings, the spoon endings. Spoon endings contact only one cell type, the principal cells of the chick tangential nucleus. The tangential nucleus is an interstitial nucleus of the vestibular nerve, comprising part of the avian lateral vestibular complex. In addition to the spoon endings formed by the vestibular fibers, the principal cell bodies receive synaptic contacts from small endings of vestibular and non-vestibular inputs. The spoon ending's synaptic space on the target cell diminishes significantly at or around the time of hatching. This diminution is expressed in quantitative terms. The spoon ending covers 34.8% of the somatic linear surface in the embryo, 10.9% in the hatchling, and 9.8% in the 3 year old. Although the spoon ending's vesicular synapses become rare after hatching, the spoon-ending interface exhibits a significant increase in gap-junction density during development. Neither the spoon endings nor their target cells exhibit a constancy in synaptic junction covering during development, although the spoon endings show a constant covering of attachment plaques. In the light of the present findings, the role of very large endings in the formation of synaptic connections and the control of developmental changes in junctional complexes is discussed.
Reversed-phase liquid chromatography of immunoglobulin G molecules and their fragments with the diphenyl column.

Abstract A diphenyl column was able to resolve two closely related monoclonal IgG2 molecules, while a C8 column failed to separate these IgGs under identical chromatographic conditions. The diphenyl column also showed a better separation of a mixture of two light and two heavy chains than the C8 column. The influence of amino acid side chains from protein sequences in binding to the diphenyl and C8 stationary phases was studied by using a set of synthetic peptides with the sequence GXXLLLKK, where X represents substitution with all of the 20 amino acids. Peptides containing aromatic amino acids showed a greater binding on the diphenyl column than on the C8 column. This increase in retention was attributed to π–π interactions between the aromatic amino acid side chains and the diphenyl ligand. Based on the retention of peptides on the diphenyl column, new retention coefficients were assigned for the separation of proteins. A good correlation was observed between the sum of retention coefficients (ΣRc) for IgGs and their retention time on the diphenyl column. On-column hydrogen–deuterium exchange showed that the diphenyl column had a larger surface of interaction with protein than the C8 column. π–π interactions and the large contact surface resulted in improved resolution of IgGs and their fragments on the diphenyl column.
Exploiting orbits in symmetric ILP

This paper describes components of a branch-and-cut algorithm for solving integer linear programs having a large symmetry group. It describes an isomorphism pruning algorithm and variable setting procedures using orbits of the symmetry group. Pruning and orbit computations are performed by backtracking procedures using a Schreier-Sims table for representing the symmetry group. Applications to hard set covering problems, generation of covering designs and error correcting codes are given.
Leveraging passive RFID technology for construction resource field mobility and status monitoring in a high-rise renovation project

Abstract The hypothesis is that leveraging automated data collection technology for site status analysis would play a more significant role in advancing decision making in construction projects if applied to traditional labor intensive management work tasks. Such manual data record keeping is, for example, progress tracking measurements and reporting of daily work status and process flows. Recent research on material tracking has demonstrated that the implementation of automated material tracking technology is feasible. Studies have yet to demonstrate whether the same or other technology can be used on other resource types, including workers, and furthermore, in advancing technology that works bi-directional: (1) collect and analyze data, and (2) return automated feedback to the decision makers at the management or even the workforce level. Despite a rigorous cost–benefit, hardware reliability and safety tests, implementation of technology in field operations is often performed on an as-needs basis. Project based case studies are effective research tools to measure the benefits and barriers that technology comes with. This paper will demonstrate results to the design, development, and furthermore and mainly, the effective and affordable implementation of a state-of-the-art wireless passive RFID-based technology system that collects and distributes information from and to decision makers. The developed technology was tested for several consecutive months on more than 50 construction workers, material carts and work related items, and personnel and material lifts that were critical in a high-rise building renovation project. Metrics to measure success in the phases of data collection, the signal and data processing, and in the use of newly generated or already available information for advanced decision making based on passive RFID technology will be presented.
Emission of Cl atoms from NaCl during Vk-center decomposition

Abstract The emission of atomic Cl from NaCl has been detected during Vk-center annealing. The experiment utilizes the technique of temperature programmed thermally stimulated exoemission of particles after exposure of the sample to 1.5 keV electrons at 100 K. Direct evidence is provided for atomic Cl emission via the mechanism Vk → Cl− + Cl. It is further argued that the exoelectrons observed during the same reaction are due to the formation of sodium chloride when the Cl atom from the Vk-center reacts with the excess surface Na produced during the electron bombardment.
Infrared transmission of sintered 3 mol% Y2O3-ZrO2 gel

Translucent ZrO2 film was successfully prepared by gelling hydrothermally produced nano-ZrO2 powders. The film (300 μm thick) was found to transmit light to 6.5 μm (40% transmission) when sintered at 1200 °C, but transmission was totally lost after sintering at 1300 °C for 1 h. Residual organic material such as urea, which was used for preparing the powder, dominated the transmission of the film in the region between 1.3 and 4.5 μm when sintered below 1000 °C. When sintered above 1000 °C, the microstructure controlled the transmission. Both organic residuals and the microstructure of the zirconia were found to determine the transmission in 4.5–6.5 μm region.
Annual review of advances in non-small cell lung cancer research: a report for the year 2010

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer mortality in the United States and worldwide,1,2 and the prognosis remains poor with an estimated 5-year overall survival (OS) rate of 15%.2 Approximately 85% of the cases of lung cancer are non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and the majority of patients have advanced stage disease at the time of diagnosis.3 Significant investigations into the etiology, molecular characteristics, and the development of novel therapies for NSCLC have been performed and are ongoing. Consequently, NSCLC research and care have evolved into a multidisciplinary approach. As a variety of disciplines perform important research and the results are published in multiple journals, it has become increasingly difficult to remain current on the recent publications. We sought to provide a concise review of the major publications related to lung cancer in the fields of molecularly biology, surgery, radiation oncology, and medical oncology. We restricted the review to clinical trials that were published in peer-reviewed journals to the calendar year of 2010; given the rapid developments within the field of molecular biology, abstracts and presentations from 2010 and early 2011 were included in this review. Unfortunately, no appreciable progress was made in small cell lung cancer in the year 2010; therefore, the focus on the review will be NSCLC.
An infrared study of the effects of hydration on cation-loaded nafion thin films

We explore the effects of hydration on the vibrational spectra of cation-exchanged Nafion thin films. In addition to the initial H+ form of the membrane, the cations selected for study include: Na+, NH, tetramethylammonium, tetrabutylammonium, hexadecyltrimethylammonium, and tris(2,2′-bipyridine)osmium(II). A flow cell is used to follow the changes occurring in a 1000-A film in response to variations in the humidity of a nitrogen purge gas flowing through the cell. The structural changes occurring due to the binding of water to these cation-exchanged membranes is followed across a broad range of water contents with IR difference spectroscopy. Our results demonstrate a complex role for water in mediating the polyanion–cation interactions. Side-chain reconstructions may play an important role in the ion-binding and transport properties of the ionomer domains. © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Polym Sci B: Polym Phys 38: 1512–1520, 2000
Protein Geometry and Placement in the Cardiac Dyad Influence Macroscopic Properties of Calcium-Induced Calcium Release

In cardiac ventricular myocytes, events crucial to excitation-contraction coupling take place in spatially restricted microdomains known as dyads. The movement and dynamics of calcium (Ca2+) ions in the dyad have often been described by assigning continuously valued Ca2+ concentrations to one or more dyadic compartments. However, even at its peak, the estimated number of free Ca2+ ions present in a single dyad is small (∼10–100 ions). This in turn suggests that modeling dyadic calcium dynamics using laws of mass action may be inappropriate. In this study, we develop a model of stochastic molecular signaling between L-type Ca2+ channels (LCCs) and ryanodine receptors (RyR2s) that describes: a), known features of dyad geometry, including the space-filling properties of key dyadic proteins; and b), movement of individual Ca2+ ions within the dyad, as driven by electrodiffusion. The model enables investigation of how local Ca2+ signaling is influenced by dyad structure, including the configuration of key proteins within the dyad, the location of Ca2+ binding sites, and membrane surface charges. Using this model, we demonstrate that LCC-RyR2 signaling is influenced by both the stochastic dynamics of Ca2+ ions in the dyad as well as the shape and relative positioning of dyad proteins. Results suggest the hypothesis that the relative placement and shape of the RyR2 proteins helps to “funnel” Ca2+ ions to RyR2 binding sites, thus increasing excitation-contraction coupling gain.
Electronic reserves in the science library: Tips, techniques, and user perceptions

SUMMARY Electronic reserve programs (“e-reserves”) have brought a new perspective to a very traditional library service. Reserve services hold materials for a certain population's use and circulate them for short periods of time. Not limited to academic environments, reserve services can be found in special libraries and public libraries, but are traditionally a function of academic libraries in support of classroom teaching. Because there is a heavy demand placed on a limited group of materials (the reason they were initially selected for reserve), stresses on the reserve collection are legion, and include high rates of vandalism and theft, followed by endless fines and billing. This notoriously difficult collection has now been effectively moved online in many institutions, offering users better access and eliminating, or at least redirecting, many of the collection management challenges. The technology involved is relatively inexpensive and easily mastered. Libraries offering e-reserves can simply move...
Site-Specific Mass Tagging with Stable Isotopes in Proteins for Accurate and Efficient Protein Identification

Proteolytic peptide mass mapping as measured by mass spectrometry provides a major approach for the identification of proteins. A protein is usually identified by the best match between the measured and calculated m/z values of the proteolytic peptides. A unique identification is, however, heavily dependent upon the mass accuracy and sequence coverage of the fragment ions generated by peptide ionization. Without ultrahigh instrumental accuracy, it is possible to increase the specificity of the assignments of particular proteolytic peptides by the incorporation of selected amino acid residue(s) enriched with stable isotope(s) into the protein sequence. Here we report this novel method of generating residue-specific mass-tagged proteolytic peptides for accurate and efficient protein identification. Selected amino acids are labeled with 13C/15N/2H and incorporated into proteins in a sequence-specific manner during cell culturing. Each of these labeled amino acids carries a defined mass change encoded in its ...
State reversals of optically induced tilt and torsional eye movements.

Alternations of the state of apparent self-motion during observation of a large visual display rotating about the line of sight are associated with alternations in the magnitude of induced tilt and torsional eye rotation. In one experiment, shifts in visually induced tilt during these state alternations are found to be in the opposite direction to corresponding shifts in induced ocular torsion. In a second experiment, the reversals of self-motion perception are shown to be an intravisual phenomenon, independent of competing inputs provided by the vestibular system. These results emphasize the importance of distinguishing between visual and vestibular processes in tilt perception and ocular rotation during human orientation to gravitational vertical.
Materials for high-power second-harmonic generation

The frequency doubling of laser radiation at 1064 nm is studied in order to characterize efficient harmonic materials capable of delivering second-harmonic average power at the multiwatt level. Three nonlinear materials are considered: Mg:LiNbO3, potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP), and lithium triborate (LBO). No photoreactive damage is observed in Mg:LiNbO3; however, it exhibits broadening of the temperature tuning curves and distortion of the harmonic beam. An average output power in excess of three watts is extracted from KTP, but the material shows optically induced nonuniformities in the n(z) refractive index. LBO as a harmonic converter achieves 2.2 W at 532 nm, though the fundamental beam has to be tightly focused in the crystal.
Model reduction for the robustness margin computation of large scale uncertain systems

Efficient algorithms are developed for the model reduction of large scale uncertain systems. The polynomial-time algorithms rely primarily on well-conditioned singular value decomposition computations, and allow robustness stability and performance margins to be computed for uncertain systems of high dimensionality. Application to a realistic description of a large scale paper machine control system demonstrates the utility of the algorithms.
A thirty-year survey of the reconstructive surgical treatment of aortoiliac occlusive disease.

Abstract With the view of assessing functional durability and the factors that influence or determine it, we reviewed the clinical course of 1748 reconstructive operations performed between Jan. 1, 1954, and Dec. 31, 1983 in the treatment of 1647 patients with aortoiliac occlusive disease (AIOD). Disabling intermittent claudication (in 65.6%), ischemic rest pain and/or pregangrene (in 20.7%), and ischemic gangrene (in 13.7%) were the operative indications. Patency proven by angiography was the criterion of success. Follow-up was continuous and endless and 94% successful over a period of 30 years. Twenty-five percent of the patients were followed up for 11 to 30 years. The incidence of severe degree of occlusive involvement increased significantly from the first (9.3%) to the third (17.1%) decade of observation, whereas the perioperative mortality rate improved markedly from the first (7.4%) to the third (2.5%) decade. The aortobifemoral bypass (AF 2 B) procedure remained the most popular type of repair (with a perioperative patency rate of 91.4%) throughout, but both it and unilateral reconstructions lost some ground to remote (extra-anatomic) bypasses in the third decade. Atherosclerotic heart disease remained the most common cause of perioperative (50%) and late (60.2%) death. Among the early postoperative local complications graft thrombosis improved markedly from the first (8.3%) to the third (3.2%) decade. Graft infection remained rare (1.6% to 0.8%). The incidence of the most common late wound complication, anastomotic aneurysm at the common femoral level, remained relatively constant (5.7% per anastomosis), but it responded very well to surgical correction. The partial or complete secondary repair of all late complications (26.0%) improved the cumulative late patency rate in the AF 2 B procedures by 2% to 12% during 20 years of observation. The perioperative (97.3%), 5-year (76.6%), 10-year (76.6%), 15-year (72.5%), and 20-year (67.5%) cumulative patency rates of AF 2 B operations were highly satisfactory. The postoperative late survival rate of patients with AIOD declined rapidly (59% at 5, 33% at 10, 14% at 15 years). The cause of late death in 60.2% of the cases was atherosclerotic heart disease.
High diagnostic yield of line probe assay as a point-of care test in a TB rural setting

Background Tuberculosis is the second leading cause of death due to infectious disease worldwide. Delay in bacilli isolation in culture, cumbersome susceptibility testing methods, lack of methods for differentiation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) from non tuberculous mycobacteria, are important issues which impinge on the WHO’s millennium goal of disease reduction by 2015. Traditional methods of TB detection and anti tB drug susceptibility assays are time consuming and with a steep rise in number of MDR tB cases the need of the hour is rapid diagnostic methods like direct drug susceptibility testing in liquid medium, molecular hybridization methods and RealTime PCR.