cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Tryptophan replacements in the trp aporepressor from escherichia coli: Probing the equilibrium and kinetic folding models

Mutants of the dimeric Escherichia coli trp aporepressor are constructed by replacement of the two tryptophan residues in each subunit in order to assess the effects on equilibrium and kinetic fluorescence properties of the folding reaction. The three kinetic phases detected by intrinsic tryptophan fluorescence in refolding of the wild-type aporepressor are also observed in folding of both Trp 19 to Phe and Trp 99 to Phe single mutants, demonstrating that these phases correspond to global rather than local conformational changes. Comparison of equilibrium fluorescence (Royer, C.A., Mann, C.J., & Matthews, C.R., 1993, Protein Sci. 2, 1844-1852) and circular dichroism transition curves induced by urea shows that replacement of either Trp 19 or Trp 99 results in noncoincident behavior. Unlike the wild-type protein (Gittelman, M.S. & Matthews, C.R., 1990, Biochemistry 29, 7011-7020), tertiary and/or quaternary structures are disrupted at lower denaturant concentration than is secondary structure. The equilibrium results can be interpreted in terms of enhancement in the population of a monomeric folding intermediate in which the lone tryptophan residue is highly exposed to solvent, but in which substantial secondary structure is retained. The location of both mutations at the interface between the two subunits (Zhang, R.G., et al., 1987, Nature 327, 591-597) provides a simple explanation for this phenomenon.
Quantification of central metabolic fluxes in the facultative methylotroph methylobacterium extorquens AM1 using 13C‐label tracing and mass spectrometry

The metabolic fluxes of central carbon metabolism were measured in chemostat-grown cultures of Methylobacterium extorquens AM1 with methanol as the sole organic carbon and energy source and growth-limiting substrate. Label tracing experiments were carried out using 70% (13)C-methanol in the feed, and the steady-state mass isotopomer distributions of amino acids derived from total cell protein were measured by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. Fluxes were calculated from the isotopomer distribution data using an isotopomer balance model and evolutionary error minimization algorithm. The combination of labeled methanol with unlabeled CO(2), which enters central metabolism in two different reactions, provided the discriminatory power necessary to allow quantification of the unknown fluxes within a reasonably small confidence interval. In wild-type M. extorquens AM1, no measurable flux was detected through pyruvate dehydrogenase or malic enzyme, and very little flux through alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase (1.4% of total carbon). In contrast, the alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase flux was 25.5% of total carbon in the regulatory mutant strain phaR, while the pyruvate dehydrogenase and malic enzyme fluxes remained insignificant. The success of this technique with growth on C(1) compounds suggests that it can be applied to help characterize the effects of other regulatory mutations, and serve as a diagnostic tool in the metabolic engineering of methylotrophic bacteria.
SONOGRAPHY OF THE EQUINE PALMAR METACARPAL SOFT TISSUES

It was hypothesized that ultrasonography may be a sensitive method for identifying pathologic changes in the tendons and ligaments of the palmar metacarpus of the horse. The palmar meta-carpi of equine cadavers and live horses were examined sonographically. The advantages and disadvantages of various ultrasound scanning techniques and the normal appearance of longitudinal and transverse palmar metacarpal sonograms are described.
Effects of short-range order on electronic properties of Zr-Ni glasses as seen from low-temperature specific heat

Measurements of the low-temperature specific heat ${C}_{p}$ of liquid-quenched Zr-Ni glasses for a large number of compositions in the range from 55 to 74 at.% Zr revealed an unusual composition dependence of the density of states at the Fermi level, $N({E}_{F})$. Furthermore, for some compositions the variation of ${C}_{p}$ near the superconducting transition temperature ${T}_{c}$ indicated the presence of two superconducting phases, i.e., two superconducting transitions were detected. Comparison of the individual ${T}_{c}$'s in phase-separated samples to the composition dependence of ${T}_{c}$ for all of the samples suggests that amorphous phases with compositions near 60 and 66.7 at.% Zr occur. We discuss these results in terms of an "association model" for liquid alloys (due to Sommer), in which associations of unlike atoms with definite stoichiometries are assumed to exist in equilibrium with unassociated atoms. We conclude that in the composition range studied, associate clusters with the compositions ${\mathrm{Zr}}_{3}$${\mathrm{Ni}}_{2}$ and ${\mathrm{Zr}}_{2}$Ni occur. In only a few cases are the clusters sufficiently large, compared with the superconducting coherence length, for separate superconducting transitions to be observed. The variation of $N({E}_{F})$ with composition is discussed, as well as the effects of this chemical short-range ordering on the crystallization behavior and glass-forming tendency.
Distributed power allocation for vehicle management systems

We consider the problem of designing distributed control protocols -for aircraft vehicle management systems-that cooperatively allocate electric power while meeting certain higher level goals and requirements, and dynamically reacting to the changes in the internal system state and external environment. A decentralized control problem is posed where each power distribution unit is equipped with a controller that implements a local protocol to allocate power to a certain subset of loads. We use linear temporal logic as the specification language for describing correct behaviors of the system (e.g., safe operating conditions) as well as the admissible dynamic behavior of the environment due to, for example, wind gusts and changes in system health. We start with a global specification and decompose it into local ones. These decompositions allow the protocols for each local controller to be separately synthesized and locally implemented while guaranteeing the global specifications to hold. Through a design example, we show that by refining the interface rules between power distribution units, it is possible to reduce the total power requirement.
Operational Characteristics of a High Purity Germanium Photon Spectrometer Cooled by a Closed-Cycle Cryogenic Refrigerator

Experience with several (commercially available) miniature closed-cycle refrigerators used to cool a high purity germanium photon detector is reported. While maintaining good resolution, closed-cycle cooling has resulted in a versatile photon spectrometer with long storage times, variable length run times, and freedom from the need for a liquid nitrogen supply. The demonstrated resolution and background levels indicate the concept to be especially useful for field measurements in problems of general radioisotope detection and in some applications of on-line x-ray fluorescence.
Effects of processing conditions on the characteristics of platinum silicide Schottky barrier diodes

Abstract A study has been carried out to determine the effects of various processing conditions on the formation of PtSi schottky barrier diodes. Various surface preparation techniques were experimented. Comparisons were made between oxide etching by wet etch (BHF) and reactive ion etching (RIE) predeposition cleaning by wet etch or in situ Ar sputter cleaning, and the use of different thicknesses of Pt. The interaction between PtSi and the contact metallurgy during subsequent annealing was also examined. The study shows that each component has a distinct effect on the quality of the PtSi film. The results indicate that oxide etching by wet etch is probably incomplete, leaving residues or suboxides on the surface of Si substrates which interfere with subsequent PtSi formation. Though RIE seems more effective in removing the oxide, data support the view that a damaged layer of Si is formed, which should be consumed by the PtSi formation for optimum electrical characteristics. Finally, even if the formation of the PtSi is ideal, interaction between the PtSi and a commonly used Ti/Al-Cu/Si contact metallurgy at elevated temperatures could degrade the PtSi film qualities if a suitable diffusion barrier is not used.
Dynamic line-by-line pulse shaping with GHz update rate

We introduce a novel scheme for dynamic line-by-line pulse shaping with GHz update rates. Four lines of an optical frequency comb source are used to injection-lock four individual VCSEL, which are subsequently electrically modulated at 0.4 to 1GHz through current modulation. This concept could be considered a completely new way of pulse shaping as the light is not simply modified, but rather regenerated with the desired properties. We also discuss an important drawback of line-by-line pulse shapers that ultimately limits the modulation speed capability.
Automated classification of visible and infrared spectra using cluster analysis

[1] Planetary space experiments collect large volumes of data whose scientific content requires understanding. Marzo et al. (2006) presented an unsupervised cluster analysis scheme that is able to reduce a spectral data set to a few clusters, allowing for more focused and rapid evaluation of their scientific meaning. Here, we extend the original approach to account for the measurement uncertainty and build a classification scheme. We apply the clustering technique to the ASTER and RELAB libraries of visible and infrared spectral reflectance. These spectral libraries are documented, allowing assignment of a label to each spectrum reflecting its physical and chemical properties. We assess the ability of the original and extended approaches to identify natural clusters of the library spectra and estimate associated uncertainties of the results. We evaluate the scientific meaning of the derived clusters based on the labels contained within each cluster. Once the cluster meanings are defined, we test our classification scheme using a training-testing approach and evaluate the accuracy of assigning the unknown spectra to the correct cluster.
Effervescent Atomizers for Small Gas Turbines

An experimental investigation is conducted into the potential of effervescent atomizers as fuel injectors for gas turbine engines. The designs studied include three different configurations of multihole effervescent atomizers and an effervescent/airblast hybrid atomizer. In all tests the liquid employed is water. The spray characteristics investigated include drop size distributions and liquid flux distributions within the spray. The results obtained show that multi hole effervesent atomizers combine good atomization with uniform liquid flux distribution. This makes them especially suitable for application to annular combustors because they allow appreciable reductions to be made 1n the number of fuel injectors needed to achieve uniform circumferential fuel distribution. The hybrid atomizer also combines good atomization with the capability of wide cone angles.The only drawback exhibited by these atomizers is the need for a separate supply of atomizing air. This drawback could restrict their applications to non-aeronautical gas turbine engines.Copyright © 1994 by ASME
Effects of a juvenile hormone analogue, pyriproxyfen, on the apterous form of soybean aphid (Aphis glycines)

: The soybean aphid, Aphis glycines Matsamura, is an eastern Asian soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] pest which can reduce soybean yield. We determined the effects of pyriproxyfen, a juvenile hormone analogue, on development, mortality, longevity and fecundity of A. glycines under laboratory conditions. Distance Insect Growth Regulator, containing ∼11.2% pyriproxyfen, was applied at two concentrations, 50 and 150 mg/l, to first and fourth instar nymphs. When first or fourth instar A. glycines were treated with pyriproxyfen, some nymphs became supernumerary-molted nymphs with 1–3 extra molts or were sterilized. Mortality of treated first instar nymphs was >68% greater than the control group and longevity was reduced by >40%. The higher concentration of pyriproxyfen reduced fecundity of first instar nymphs when they reached adulthood by ∼79%. Pyriproxyfen similarly affected fourth instar nymphs. Mortality of treated fourth instar nymphs was ≥15% greater than the control group and longevity was reduced by >24%. Both concentrations of pyriproxyfen lowered the fecundity of fourth instar nymphs by >27%. Pyriproxyfen also had other sublethal effects on fourth instar nymphs which became apparent when they molted to adulthood. In a few instances they developed wing pads and many produced dead, deformed or abnormal neonates that lacked appendages.
A critical review of cooling techniques in proton exchange membrane fuel cell stacks

Abstract Effective cooling is critical for safe and efficient operation of proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) stacks with high power. The narrow range of operating temperature and the small temperature differences between the stack and the ambient introduce significant challenges in the design of a cooling system. To promote the development of effective cooling strategies, cooling techniques reported in technical research publications and patents are reviewed in this paper. Firstly, the characteristics of the heat generation and cooling requirements in a PEMFC stack are introduced. Then the advantages, challenges and progress of various cooling techniques, including (i) cooling with heat spreaders (using high thermal conductivity materials or heat pipes), (ii) cooling with separate air flow, (iii) cooling with liquid (water or antifreeze coolant), and (iv) cooling with phase change (evaporative cooling and cooling through boiling), are systematically reviewed. Finally, further research needs in this area are identified.
Nondisruptive material sampling and mechanical testing

The aging and inservice degradation of industrial equipment has underscored a need for efficient and reliable evaluation of the suitability of such equipment for continued service. The structural components of traditional energy production facilities, such as fossil- and nuclear-fueled electric power plants, are prime examples of aging equipment for which integrity during extended service is of major concern. The paper describes a recently developed nondisruptive miniature material sample removal and test approach that is being applied to a range of operating electric power plant components from turbine generators to pressure vessels, and to petrochemical plant reactor vessels for inservice integrity assessment. Thein situ removal of a thin wafer-like sample (less than 25 mm in diameter and 2.5 mm in thickness) from the component surface generally has no effect on component integrity. The miniature specimen small punch (disk bend) test has been developed to mechanically test the as-removed material, and is being used to estimate the material tensile behavior and fracture properties (ductile-to-brittle transition temperature and fracture toughness) required for a reliable component integrity assessment.
Abstract 4161: Rab25 cooperates with RIN1 to suppress p21 Ras

Proceedings: AACR 103rd Annual Meeting 2012‐‐ Mar 31‐Apr 4, 2012; Chicago, IL Introduction: Our previous work has shown that the loss of Rab25 occurs in estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR) negative breast cancer cell lines and human tumor samples and seems to correlate with an active Ras pathway. Loss of Rab25 cooperates with mutant Ras to promote tumorigenesis. RIN1 is a protein inhibitor of Ras, and our current works confirms that Rab25 binds to RIN1 and cooperates to inhibit Ras. Rab25 also has multiple effects on microRNAs. Materials and Methods: Cell culture -RAO-1-4 cell lines was grown in DFCI-1 medium. Immunoprecipitation- Protein extracts from RAO-1, RAO-2, and RAO-3/Rab25 were tested for RIN1expression. Immunoprecipitated extracts were then assayed by western blot for RAB25 expression. Chemiluminescence Assay- Cell extract from MDA-MB-231 cells with shRIN1 was used. These cells contained no Rab25 as well. Recombinant RIN1 and recombinant Rab25 were tested in various combinations for ras inhibition using the Active Motif kit. MicroRNA assay- RNA was extracted from RAO-2, RAO-4, and RAO-4/Rab25 and sent to Phalanx Biotech for microRNA profiling. Results: 1. Rab25 binds to RIN1 in a ternary complex with Ras. 2. Rab25 coopeates with RIN1 in an additive manner to inhibit Ras. 3. Rab25 expression impacts several microRNAs including 29b, 100, 138, 146a, 205, 524-5p, 762, 1246, 1260b, 1307, 1826, 3172, 3175, and 3178. Conclusions: 1. Rab25 is a tumor modulator. It can regulate tumor growth and angiogenesis through inhibition of ras in cooperation with RIN1. 2. Our data previous indicated that Rab25 could localize to the nucleus, and it appears to effect the expression of several microRNAs. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 4161. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-4161
Epithelial CaSR deficiency alters intestinal integrity and promotes proinflammatory immune responses

The intestinal epithelium is equipped with sensing receptor mechanisms that interact with luminal microorganisms and nutrients to regulate barrier function and gut immune responses, thereby maintaining intestinal homeostasis. Herein, we clarify the role of the extracellular calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) using intestinal epithelium-specific Casr(-/-) mice. Epithelial CaSR deficiency diminished intestinal barrier function, altered microbiota composition, and skewed immune responses towards proinflammatory. Consequently, Casr(-/-) mice were significantly more prone to chemically induced intestinal inflammation resulting in colitis. Accordingly, CaSR represents a potential therapeutic target for autoinflammatory disorders, including inflammatory bowel diseases.
Exploiting Contact Spatial Dependency for Opportunistic Message Forwarding

The movement of real users often follows patterns that can be characterized by certain statistical metrics of the contacts. Such metrics are useful for routing decisions, especially in sparse mobile ad hoc networks where node connectivity is opportunistic and messages are delivered using store-carry-forward routing. Past analysis on real-world data traces indicates that human behaviors affect the node contact pattern and spatial dependency exists among mobile nodes. A new metric called the expected dependent delay that characterizes the expected delay of a contact dependent on the previous hop is proposed. It characterizes the spatial dependency between neighboring contact pairs and reflects the regularity in node movement. In sparse opportunistic mobile ad hoc networks, a good approximation of the expected delay of a multihop path can be derived as the sum of the expected delay of the first hop and the expected dependent delays of later hops. We apply the proposed path-delay estimation to end-to-end routing. Simulation results show that compared with routing schemes that consider only the delivery probability or the expected delay, the proposed scheme can reduce the message delay significantly, when the network is sufficiently sparse and the spatial dependency is quantitatively constant over time. Moreover, the proposed method is tractable and can be easily implemented in combination with other routing techniques such as multipath routing and per-contact routing.
Efficient decoupling capacitor planning via convex programming methods

Achieving P/G supply signal integrity is crucial to success of nanometer VLSI designs. Existing P/G network optimization techniques are dominated by sensitivity based approaches. In this paper, we propose two novel convex programming based approaches for decoupling capacitor insertion in a P/G network, i.e., a semidefinite program and a linear program, which are global optimizations with theoretically guaranteed supply voltage degradation bounds. We also propose a scalability improvement scheme which enables us to apply the proposed convex programs to industry designs. We present a simple illustrative example and experimental results on an industry design, which show that the proposed semidefinite program guarantees supply voltage degradation bound for all possible supply current sources, while the proposed linear program achieves the most accurate supply voltage degradation control for a given set of supply current sources.
Miscellaneous Thoracic Surgical Procedures

The thoracic surgical procedures discussed in this chapter are bundled together because they are less commonly encountered and have limited specific anesthetic implications.
Exploring the mosaic of perceptions for water quality across watersheds in San Antonio, Texas

Abstract Past research on environmental perceptions has, for the most part, treated responses as independently distributed across a given study area. However, a random sampling of respondents may not necessarily produce a randomly distributed pattern of views on the natural environment. This article explores the degree to which perceptions of water quality are spatially correlated across two watersheds in San Antonio, Texas. Using spatial analysis techniques, we describe and map the mosaic of perceptions of water quality in Salado and Leon creeks running through the heart of the metropolitan area. Specifically, we test the degree to which responses are spatially autocorrelated across the watersheds, and then provide explanation as to why clustering of perceptions occurs in specific locations. Results demonstrate that environmental perceptions are in fact spatially dependent across the landscape and that geographic networks of issue-based activism contribute to the formation of localized “hot spots” of similar responses. Finally, we discuss how the results provide direction for more effective approaches to watershed planning and policy.
Fluid flow, mineral reactions, and metasomatism

A general model that relates fluid flow along a temperature gradient to chemical reaction in rocks can be used to quantitatively interpret petrologic and geochemical data on metasomatism from ancient flow systems in terms of flow direction and time-integrated fluid flux. The model is applied to regional metamorphism, quartz veins, and a metasomatized ductile fault zone.
High levels of inflammatory biomarkers are associated with increased allele-specific apolipoprotein(a) levels in African-Americans.

Background: A role of inflammation for cardiovascular disease (CVD) is established. Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is an independent CVD risk factor where plasma levels are determined by the apolipoprotein(a) [apo(a)] gene, which contains inflammatory response elements. Design: We investigated the effect of inflammation on allele-specific apo(a) levels in African-Americans and Caucasians. We determined Lp(a) levels, apo(a) sizes, allele-specific apo(a) levels, fibrinogen and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels in 167 African-Americans and 259 Caucasians. Results: Lp(a) levels were increased among African-Americans with higher vs. lower levels of CRP [<3 vs. ≥3 mg/liter (143 vs. 108 nmol/liter), P = 0.009] or fibrinogen (<340 vs. ≥340 mg/liter, P = 0.002). We next analyzed allele-specific apo(a) levels for different apo(a) sizes. No differences in allele-specific apo(a) levels across CRP or fibrinogen groups were seen among African-Americans or Caucasians for small apo(a) sizes (<22 kringle 4 repeats). Allele-specific...
Inactivation of the ciaH Gene in Streptococcus mutans Diminishes Mutacin Production and Competence Development, Alters Sucrose-Dependent Biofilm Formation, and Reduces Stress Tolerance

Many clinical isolates of Streptococcus mutans produce peptide antibiotics called mutacins. Mutacin production may play an important role in the ecology of S. mutans in dental plaque. In this study, inactivation of a histidine kinase gene, ciaH, abolished mutacin production. Surprisingly, the same mutation also diminished competence development, stress tolerance, and sucrose-dependent biofilm formation.
Electoral System Effects on Women's Representation: Theoretical Arguments and Evidence from Costa Rica

This study considers the effects of electoral system structure on women's representation in national legislatures. Research done in Western Europe finds women's representation is positively affected by party magnitude; tests for similar effects in Costa Rica are done and confirm this hypothesis. The effects of electoral thresholds are also considered. The Costa Rican electoral threshold increases disproportionality and enhances the likelihood of producing parliamentary majorities, as expected. Moving beyond these traditional findings, the threshold also has a positive effect on the descriptive representativeness of the legislature by increasing party magnitudes and thereby increasing the representation of women. The study ends by suggesting the electoral studies field needs to expand its evaluation criteria to not only consider representativeness in terms of reflecting party support, but also consider representativeness in terms of accurately mirroring society at large, that is, descriptive representation.
The safety profile of infliximab in patients with Crohn's disease: The Mayo Clinic experience in 500 patients

Abstract Background & Aims: The aim of this study was to evaluate the short- and long-term safety of infliximab in patients with Crohn's disease in clinical practice. Methods: The medical records of 500 consecutive patients treated with infliximab at the Mayo Clinic were reviewed and abstracted for demographic features and adverse events. The likelihood of a causal relationship to infliximab for each adverse event was determined by calculating an intrinsic likelihood (imputability) score. Results: The 500 patients received a median of 3 infusions and had a median follow-up of 17 months. Forty-three patients (8.6%) experienced a serious adverse event, of which 30 (6%) were related to infliximab. Acute infusion reactions occurred in 19 of 500 patients (3.8%). Serum sickness-like disease occurred in 19 of 500 patients and was attributed to infliximab in 14 (2.8%). Three patients developed drug-induced lupus. One patient developed a new demyelination disorder. Forty-eight patients had an infectious event, of which 41 (8.2%) were attributed to infliximab. Twenty patients had a serious infection: 2 had fatal sepsis, 8 had pneumonia (of which 2 cases were fatal), 6 had viral infections, 2 had abdominal abscesses requiring surgery, one had arm cellulitis, and one had histoplasmosis. Nine patients had a malignant disorder, 3 of which were possibly related to infliximab. A total of 10 deaths were observed. For 5 of these patients (1%), the events leading to death were possibly related to infliximab. Conclusions: Short- and long-term infliximab therapy is generally well tolerated. However, clinicians must be vigilant for the occurrence of infrequent but serious events, including serum sickness-like reaction, opportunistic infection and sepsis, and autoimmune disorders.
Role of formic receptors in soluble urokinase receptor-induced human vascular smooth muscle migration.

Abstract Background Vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) migration in response to urokinase is dependent on binding of the urokinase molecule to the urokinase plasminogen receptor (uPAR) and cleavage of the receptor. The aim of this study was to examine the role of the soluble uPAR (suPAR) in VSMC migration. Methods Human VSMCs were cultured in vitro. Linear wound and Boyden microchemotaxis assays of migration were performed in the presence of suPAR. Inhibitors to G-protein signaling and kinase activation were used to study these pathways. Assays were performed for mitogen-activated protein kinase and epidermal growth factor receptor activation. Results suPAR induced concentration-dependent migration of VSMC, which was G protein-dependent and was blocked by Gαi and Gβγ inhibitors. Removal of the full uPAR molecule by incubation of the cells with a phospholipase did not interfere with this response. suPAR induced ERK1/2, p38MAPK, and c-Jun N-terminal kinase [JNK] activation in a Gαi/Gβγ-dependent manner, and interruption of these signaling pathways prevented suPAR-mediated migration. suPAR activity was independent of plasmin activity. suPAR did not activate epidermal growth factor receptor. Interruption of the low affinity N-formyl-Met-Leu-Phe receptor (FPRL1) but not high affinity N-formyl-Met-Leu-Phe receptor (FPR) prevented cell migration and activation in response to suPAR. suPAR increased matrix metalloproteinase-2 expression and activity, and this was dependent on the low affinity N-formyl-Met-Leu-Phe receptor (FPRL1) and ERK1/2. Conclusions suPAR induces human smooth muscle cell activation and migration independent of the full uPAR through activation of the G protein-coupled receptor FPRL1, which is not linked to the plasminogen activation cascade.
A REVIEW OF EQUINE RENAL IMAGING TECHNIQUES

Radiography has a limited role in the evaluation of the kidneys in foals and adult horses. Ultrasonography is the current method of choice for structural evaluation of the kidneys in horses as it provides additional information to standard serum chemistry and urinalysis evaluation. A variety of structural abnormalities have been identified in diseased equine kidneys with the use of ultrasound. Ultrasound guided renal biopsy is the preferred method for performing renal biopsy in the horse. The use of Duplex Doppler ultrasound may allow for the characterization of regional hemodynamics of the equine kidneys, but is currently an untapped method for evaluation of equine renal hemodynamics. Radionuclide methods including scintigraphy and quantitative renal function measurement can be used to provide further information about equine renal function. Scintigraphy can provide structural and possibly functional information. Quantitative methods using radiopharmaceuticals can provide precise measurement of glomerular filtration rate and effective renal blood flow. This method is especially helpful in identifying acute renal failure and in guiding response to treatment. All equine renal imaging techniques should be a supplement to the physical examination and standard laboratory tests. Additional diagnostic aids such as urinary tract endoscopy should also be considered in horses with hematuria, hydroureter, and suspected calculi. Taken together, all these modalities provide a through evaluation of the equine renal system and provide a basis for the clinician to select treatment options and provide prognostic information to the owner.
Enhanced multidecadal climate variability in the seventeenth century from coral isotope records in the western Indian Ocean

[1] The slowly growing coral Diploastreaheliopora affords a novel opportunity to obtain multicentury records of paleoclimate, including details of the interannual rhythms associated with the El Nino–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) system. We examine climate variability in an ENSO-teleconnected region using new oxygen isotope records from D. heliopora, spanning most of the twentieth (1896–1998) and seventeenth (1622–1722) centuries, from the Mafia archipelago, Tanzania. The modern record demonstrates coherency with relevant instrumental and proxy time series, documents twentieth century warming, and displays significant power at ENSO periodicities. The seventeenth century record lacks any trend, exhibits interannual variance comparable to the modern record, and displays a pronounced interdecadal signal not evident in the twentieth century that correlates with other tropical and hemispheric climate records. We find no clear evidence of solar irradiance influence on interannual variability in the western Indian Ocean during these intervals, although the mean sea surface temperature appears to vary inversely with insolation.
Community Forestry Enterprises as Entrepreneurial Firms: Economic and Institutional Perspectives from Mexico

Few examples exist in the common property literature of community-managed forestry enterprises (CFEs) operating in competitive markets. Yet, in Mexico, there are hundreds of such examples at varying levels of vertical integration. At a time when devolution of rights to forests is expanding worldwide, collective management of timber operations presents an emerging community forestry policy option. CFEs have unusual institutional features that force a reconsideration of theories of the firm, unique management tensions, varieties of possible institutional arrangements governing stocks, and flows of the natural resource, and may have special importance in delivering both economic equity and environmental protection.
Proteomic Analysis to Identify Breast Cancer Biomarkers in Nipple Aspirate Fluid

Purpose: Proteomic analysis of breast nipple aspirate fluid (NAF) holds promise as a noninvasive method to identify markers of breast cancer. The objectives of the study were to: ( a ) describe the NAF proteome, ( b ) identify candidate markers of breast cancer in NAF by using proteomic analysis, and ( c ) validate the markers identified by using a quantitative, high-throughput ELISA analysis. Experimental Design: For proteome analysis, NAF proteins from a single subject without breast cancer were separated by two-dimensional PAGE and were subjected to matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectometry identification. A total of 41 different proteins were identified, 25 of which were known to be secreted. To identify breast cancer markers, we separated 20 NAF samples (10 normal, 10 cancer) by two-dimensional PAGE. Three protein spots were detected that were up-regulated in three or more cancer samples. These spots were identified to be gross cystic disease fluid protein (GCDFP)-15, apolipoprotein D (apoD), and α1-acid glycoprotein (AAG). To validate these three potential biomarkers, 105 samples (53 from benign breasts and 52 from breasts with cancer) were analyzed using ELISA. Results: Among all of the subjects, GCDFP-15 levels were lower ( P P = 0.001) in breasts with cancer. This was also true in premenopausal (GCDFP-15, P = 0.011; AAG, P = 0.002) but not in postmenopausal women. GCDFP-15 levels were lowest ( P = 0.003) and AAG levels highest ( P in situ (DCIS). Menopausal status influenced GCDFP-15 and AAG more in women without breast cancer than in women with breast cancer. apoD levels did not correlate significantly with breast cancer. Conclusions: Our study revealed that the NAF proteome, as defined by two-dimensional PAGE, consists of a limited number of proteins, and that the expression of AAG and GCDFP-15 correlates with disease presence and stage.
REAL-TIME THREE-DIMENSIONAL INTRACARDIAC ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY

Using catheter-mounted 2-D array transducers, we have obtained real-time 3-D intracardiac ultrasound (US) images. We have constructed several transducers with 64 channels inside a 12 French catheter lumen operating at 5 MHz. The transducer configuration may be side-scanning or beveled, with respect to the long axis of the catheter lumen. We have also included six electrodes to acquire simultaneous electrocardiograms. Using an open-chest sheep model, we inserted the catheter into the cardiac chambers to study the utility of in vivo intracardiac 3-D scanning. Images obtained include a cardiac four-chamber view, mitral valve, pulmonic valve, tricuspid valve, interatrial septum, interventricular septum and ventricular volumes. We have also imaged two electrophysiological interventional devices in the right atrium, performed an in vitro ablation study, and viewed the pulmonary veins in vitro.
Targeting STAT4 in systemic sclerosis: a promising new direction.

Evaluation of: Avouac J, Furnrohr BG, Tomcik M et al. Inactivation of the transcription factor STAT-4 prevents inflammation-driven fibrosis in animal models of systemic sclerosis. Arthritis Rheum. 63(3), 800-809 (2011). STAT4 has been identified as a genetic risk factor for the development of autoimmune diseases including systemic sclerosis. STAT4 regulates Th1 cell development and cell-mediated immunity, but it is not known how it may regulate the development of dermal fibrosis. Using the bleomycin-induced dermal fibrosis model, it has now been demonstrated that STAT4-deficient mice have reduced dermal fibrosis in part via STAT4-dependent alterations in T-cell proliferation and cytokine production. These data stress the importance of STAT4 in autoimmune diseases such as systemic sclerosis and provide an important direction for future research to improve our understanding of systemic sclerosis pathogenesis.
The Functional Unity of Special Science Kinds

AbstractThe view that special science properties are multiply realizable has been attacked in recent years by Shapiro, Bechtel and Mundale, Polger, and others. Focusing on psychological and neurosc...
Immunization of female cynomolgus macaques with a synthetic epitope of sperm‐specific lactate dehydrogenase results in high antibody titers but does not reduce fertility

Previous studies have reported reduced fertility in female baboons immunized with a synthetic peptide derived from the sperm-specific isozyme of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH-C). In this study, a similar approach was used to immunize female cynomolgus macaques with the same peptide sequence (bC5-19) conjugated to a T-cell epitope from tetanus toxin (TT). Twelve female monkeys were immunized with bC5-19:TT delivered with Ribi MPL adjuvant vehicle, and 10 control female monkeys were injected with the adjuvant vehicle only. All 12 females in the treatment group developed LDH-C-specific serum antibodies as measured by ELISA, but anti-LDH-C antibodies were not detected in vaginal fluids of the immunized animals. After 4 months of timed mating immediately following the immunizations, five of the ten immunized females became pregnant, as did six of the ten control females. Anti-sera from both pregnant and nonpregnant bC5-19:TT-immunized females recognize a single band at 35 kDa on Western blots of whole sperm extracts, and purified Igs from the same sera localize along the principle piece of the flagellum of permeabilized sperm.
Genetic and Morphological Records of the Hominoidea and Hominid Origins: A Synthesis

Molecular genetics has had a major impact on phylogenetics, although many hominoid paleontologists and morphologists ignore or remain unaware of genetic data. However, substantial genetic evidence shows chimpanzees and humans as closest relatives. Living hominoids share many postcranial similarities, many of which are retained from the extant hominoid common ancestor. Miocene hominoid fossils consisted until recently mostly of teeth and jaw fragments which are relatively uninformative phylogenetically. As their postcrania have become better sampled, surprisingly few of these taxa share significant similarities with living apes, suggesting that few if any are related to specific extant lineages. Given the genetically inferred relationships of hominoids and the morphology of the earliest hominids, the common ancestor of humans and chimpanzees was probably chimp-like, a knuckle-walker with small thin-enameled cheek teeth. If correct, this scenario implies that known Miocene hominoids, most of which are postcranially archaic and have large, thickly enameled cheek teeth, throw little if any direct light on hominid origins.
What are the roles of species distribution models in conservation planning

The development of species distribution models (SDMs) has benefited biodiversity conservation through their linkage of science to policy and decision processes. These models have evolved to provide scenarios of future landscapes based on known and projected environmental parameters. Whereas there are many caveats to their use, the persuasive power of the models for conveying the consequences of environmental change to the non-science community is immense. Scientists are obliged to convey the uncertainty of the futures depicted in their models, but also to involve the stakeholders who will shape those future conditions. Stakeholders can identify the natural resources they want to sustain, voice their priorities in environmental policy, and articulate the range of solutions they are willing to accept. The creation of alternative futures is an academic exercise if not linked to real viable decisions concerning important resources. SDMs only reach their full potential when they bring together scientists, public stakeholders and policy makers, and are used as an adaptive management tool to understand complex landscapes that are undergoing short- and long-term change.
A charge-modified general amber force field for phospholipids: improved structural properties in the tensionless ensemble

Accurately predicting the structural properties of phospholipid with a fully atomistic molecular model is critical for the study of pure phospholipid bilayers, mixed bilayer systems and bilayers containing proteins. The general amber force field (GAFF) has traditionally required the presence of a surface tension parameter to correctly model phospholipid bilayer properties such as area per lipid and order parameters. In this work, the GAFF partial charges for 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphate (POPA), 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphochiline (POPC) and 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoglycerol (POPG) were re-parameterised utilising high-level ab initio calculations and the restrained electrostatic potential method. Simulations of pure POPA, POPC and POPG bilayers using the charge-modified GAFF and no applied surface tension are compared with available experimental data, the original GAFF model and the recent Lipid14 variant. The results indicate a significant improvement in the acc...
East versus west: a comparison of online destination marketing in China and the USA.

The internet is playing an increasingly important role in destination marketing. To explore the current situation of online marketing in major destinations, this study compared destination marketin...
The crystal structure of Nep1 reveals an extended SPOUT-class methyltransferase fold and a pre-organized SAM-binding site

Ribosome biogenesis in eukaryotes requires the participation of a large number of ribosome assembly factors. The highly conserved eukaryotic nucleolar protein Nep1 has an essential but unknown function in 18S rRNA processing and ribosome biogenesis. In Saccharomyces cerevisiae the malfunction of a temperature-sensitive Nep1 protein (nep1-1ts) was suppressed by the addition of S-adenosylmethionine (SAM). This suggests the participation of Nep1 in a methyltransferase reaction during ribosome biogenesis. In addition, yeast Nep1 binds to a 6-nt RNA-binding motif also found in 18S rRNA and facilitates the incorporation of ribosomal protein Rps19 during the formation of pre-ribosomes. Here, we present the X-ray structure of the Nep1 homolog from the archaebacterium Methanocaldococcus jannaschii in its free form (2.2 A resolution) and bound to the S-adenosylmethionine analog S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH, 2.15 A resolution) and the antibiotic and general methyltransferase inhibitor sinefungin (2.25 A resolution). The structure reveals a fold which is very similar to the conserved core fold of the SPOUT-class methyltransferases but contains a novel extension of this common core fold. SAH and sinefungin bind to Nep1 at a preformed binding site that is topologically equivalent to the cofactor-binding site in other SPOUT-class methyltransferases. Therefore, our structures together with previous genetic data suggest that Nep1 is a genuine rRNA methyltransferase.
Learning together: Kolb's experiential theory and its application

This paper aims to make a limited contribution to Kolb's Experiential Learning Theory. An evaluation has been made of an empirically based personal narrative of the author's experiences, reflections and problems as an instructor of a management elective course at the undergraduate level. The paper examines the process of reflection, correction and learning from the perspective of the instructor and how the issue of race and origin of the student learners' can stimulate or hinder assimilation of knowledge within a classroom. The study reveals that it is essential for an educator to be critically reflective of his/her culture and that of his/her students to be able to assess their learning styles and adopt suitable and appropriate teaching pedagogies within the classroom. This paper draws attention towards types of teaching pedagogies, non traditional methods and aids and their effectiveness in educating students of diverse backgrounds. It provides insights about diversity within classrooms and its impact on teaching, pedagogies and learning styles of both educators and students, by portraying the journey of an educator and her process of self improvement.
Signal Acquisition Techniques for Receiving Arrays of Large-Aperture Antennas

This paper considers the signal phase acquisition problem for arrays of large-aperture steerable antennas. In particular, long-range signal acquisition is considered for those cases in which the signal-to-noise ratio in each antenna-receiver channel is too low to permit signal phase-lock in each individual receiver. Techniques are discussed which promise to extend the array acquisition sensitivity toward that of an equivalent-area single-aperture antenna. Several acquisition methods are analyzed mathematically and an approximate minimum power threshold estimated for each technique. A numerical comparison between the acquisition techniques for various assumed atmospheric conditions is presented which indicates the limitations on array sensitivity imposed by both the transmission medium and the acquisition technique.
XRP6258-induced gene expression patterns in head and neck cancer carcinoma.

Objectives/Hypothesis: XRP6258 is a novel taxoid, which has antitumor activity in preclinical mouse orthotopic and human xenograft cancer models. However, limited XRP6258 studies have been performed in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cells (HNSCC). The objective of this study is to identify the antitumor activity of XRP6258 in HNSCC cell line models. Methods: HNSCC cells (HN30 and HN12) were exposed to either XRP6258 or docetaxel. XRP6258-induced growth suppression, cell cycle arrest and apoptosis were measured. Further, XRP6258-induced expression patterns of selected genes were compared to docetaxel-induced expression patterns using Western blot analysis. Results: XRP6258 suppressed proliferation and induced G2M arrest and apoptosis in both of the cell lines tested. XRP6258 and docetaxel produced similar alteration in the expression of cell cycle regulators, such as cyclin A and cyclin B1. The expression of E2F and EGFR were decreased in both XRP6258 and docetaxel-treated HNSCC cells. Finally, XRP6258 induced a greater level of bcl2 phosphorylation than docetaxel in HN12 cell line. Conclusions: XRP6258 appeared to have a similar mechanism of action as docetaxel in the two HNSCC cell lines studied. XRP6258 induced cell cycle arrest, growth suppression, and apoptosis by altering gene expression patterns similar to that induced by docetaxel. These preclinical experiments suggest that XRP6258 may be useful in treating HNSCC, and the aforementioned genes can potentially be used as surrogate endpoint biomarkers. Laryngoscope, 120:1114–1119, 2010
Quilting narrative: Using repetition techniques to help elderly communicators

Abstract As we gain a better understanding of narratives presented by both normally aging adults and those with cognitive deficits, we are able to communicate more effectively. We can select more interactive ways to help construct meaning with individuals who appear to have lost the ability to communicate. We can listen for formulaic expressions or colloquial speech, furnish beginnings, echo details, add to endings. We can recall what we were told in an earlier conversation and reintroduce the topic so that the speaker with Alzheimer disease (AD) can recognize information and expand it instead of being asked to recall it. By using the repetition technique of quilting narrative, nurses can help family members see that the person with AD is trying to signal some part of a life event, which helps convey to others who he or she is. (Geriatr Nurs 2002;23:262-6)