cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Probing Water and Biomolecules at the Air–Water Interface with a Broad Bandwidth Vibrational Sum Frequency Generation Spectrometer from 3800 to 900 cm −1

We have built a broad bandwidth vibrational sum frequency generation (VSFG) spectrometer that can provide high-quality spectra over the range of 3800 to 900 cm−1. The spectrometer contains a commercial Ti:sapphire based 6 W regenerative amplifier as the master light source, a home-built pulse shaper to produce a narrow bandwidth 800 nm beam, a commercial optical parametric amplifier to generate a broad bandwidth femtosecond infrared (IR) pulse, and a detection system with a monochromator and a charge-coupled device (CCD). We applied this spectrometer to obtain VSFG spectra of a lipid monolayer at the air–water interface in the O–H stretching region (3800–3000 cm−1), the C–H stretching region (3100–2700 cm−1), the C–D stretching region (2300–2000 cm−1), the C=O stretching region (1800–1700 cm−1), and the PO2− symmetric stretching region (1200–1000 cm−1). We also obtained the VSFG spectrum of neat water in the O–H stretching region (3800–3000 cm−1) and the VSFG spectrum of a protein, α-synuclein, in the amide I region (1700–1600 cm−1) at the air–water interface. The spectrometer can provide a VSFG spectrum in the O–H stretching region (3800–3000 cm−1) without scanning the IR frequency. This feature will be useful in probing water dynamics at interfaces because the free OH and H-bonded OH can be investigated simultaneously. We have also provided instrumental details and discussed further improvements that should be beneficial to other researchers interested in setting up VSFG instrumentation.
Lesions of the Suprachiasmatic Nuclei Abolish the Cervically Stimulated Prolactin Surges in the Rat

Stimulation of the uterine cervix in the rat induces a pattern of PRL secretion composed of two daily surges: a diurnal surge occurring as the lights go off and a nocturnal surge occurring as the lights go on. We recently demonstrated that these PRL surges are a true circadian rhythm in that they are entrained to an alternating photoperiod but free-run in constant dark. To determine if this induced rhythm is generated by the suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN), as are the other endogenous rhythms, we examined the pattern of PRL secretion in rats which were first cervically stimulated and then lesioned in the SCN. The cervices of rats maintained in a 12-h light, 12-h dark photoperiod were stimulated electrically for 30 sec at 1900 h (day 0). The next day, cannulae were inserted in their carotid arteries, and radiofrequency lesions were made in the SCN. Blood samples for PRL analysis were obtained at 2-h intervals from 0900 h on day 3 to 1100 h on day 4. Sham-operated rats and rats in which the SCN were missed or ...
Fundamental physics and applications of whispering-gallery mode resonators

The focus of this tutorial is the underlying physics of whispering gallery mode (WGM) optical resonators, and their applications in photonics, quantum optics, and fundamental physics.
Effect of Dietary Neutral Detergent Fiber Concentration and Forage Source on Performance of Lactating Cows

Abstract ‘Mott' dwarf elephantgrass, forage sorghum, ‘Tifton 81' bermudagrass, and whole corn plant were stored as silage and fed as the only forage source in diets formulated to 31, 35, and 39% NDF. The 12 diets were fed for ad libitum intake as a TMR to midlactation Holstein cows, primarily to determine the effect of NDF concentration and forage source on DMI and milk production. Increased dietary NDF concentration linearly decreased DMI (3.69 to 3.35%) and OM intake (3.39 to 3.06%) as a percentage of BW and linearly increased NDF intake as a percentage of BW (1.15 to 1.32%). Production of milk (23.0 to 21.7 kg/d) and 4% FCM (20.7 to 19.6 kg/d) and percentage of milk protein (3.16 to 3.07%) decreased linearly as dietary NDF concentration increased. Cows fed dwarf elephantgrass silage or corn silage, which were higher quality forage sources based on greater rates and extents of fiber digestion, consumed more DM and produced more milk than cows fed sorghum silage or bermudagrass silage. Cows fed diets containing sorghum silage had the lowest DMI and milk production. Apparent digestibility of NDF and ADF from corn silage and dwarf elephantgrass silage was greater than that of sorghum silage and bermudagrass silage. In addition to dietary NDF concentration, digestibility of dietary fiber influences DMI and milk production.
A Model-Constrained Monte Carlo Method for Blind Arterial Input Function Estimation in Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced MRI: I) Simulations

Accurate quantification of pharmacokinetic model parameters in tracer kinetic imaging experiments requires correspondingly accurate determination of the arterial input function (AIF). Despite significant effort expended on methods of directly measuring patient-specific AIFs in modalities as diverse as dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI), dynamic positron emission tomography (PET), and perfusion computed tomography (CT), fundamental and technical difficulties have made consistent and reliable achievement of that goal elusive. Here, we validate a new algorithm for AIF determination, the Monte Carlo blind estimation (MCBE) method (which is described in detail and characterized by extensive simulations in a companion paper), by comparing AIFs measured in DCE-MRI studies of eight brain tumor patients with results of blind estimation. Blind AIFs calculated with the MCBE method using a pool of concentration–time curves from a region of normal brain tissue were found to be quite similar to the measured AIFs, with statistically significant decreases in fit residuals observed in six of eight patients. Biases between the blind and measured pharmacokinetic parameters were the dominant source of error. Averaged over all eight patients, the mean biases were +7% in K trans, 0% in kep, −11% in vp and +10% in ve. Corresponding uncertainties (median absolute deviation from the best fit line) were 0.0043 min−1 in K trans, 0.0491 min−1 in kep, 0.29% in vp and 0.45% in ve. The use of a published population-averaged AIF resulted in larger mean biases in three of the four parameters (−23% in K trans, −22% in kep, −63% in vp), with the bias in ve unchanged, and led to larger uncertainties in all four parameters (0.0083 min−1 in K trans, 0.1038 min−1 in kep, 0.31% in vp and 0.95% in ve). When blind AIFs were calculated from a region of tumor tissue, statistically significant decreases in fit residuals were observed in all eight patients despite larger deviations of these blind AIFs from the measured AIFs. The observed decrease in root-mean-square fit residuals between the normal brain and tumor tissue blind AIFs suggests that the local blood supply in tumors is measurably different from that in normal brain tissue and that the proposed method is able to discriminate between the two. We have shown the feasibility of applying the MCBE algorithm to DCE-MRI data acquired in brain, finding generally good agreement with measured AIFs and decreased biases and uncertainties relative to the use of a population-averaged AIF. These results demonstrate that the MCBE algorithm is a useful alternative to direct AIF measurement in cases where acquisition of high-quality arterial input function data is difficult or impossible.
Do trade agreements help US exports? A study of the Japanese citrus industry

An import allocation was used to investigate Japan's citrus subsector and its import demand for citrus. Results of this study indicate that US fresh grapefruit exports to Japan would have to compete against imports of bananas and pineapples for the Japanese import dollars, and that US citrus juice exports would have to compete against the juices from Brazil and Israel.
Recruitment of O-GlcNAc Transferase to Promoters by Corepressor mSin3A: Coupling Protein O-GlcNAcylation to Transcriptional Repression

Transcription factors and RNA polymerase II can be modified by O-linked N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAc) monosaccharides at serine or threonine residues, yet the precise functional roles of this modification are largely unknown. Here, we show that O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT), the enzyme that catalyzes this posttranslational modification, interacts with a histone deacetylase complex by binding to the corepressor mSin3A. Functionally, OGT and mSin3A cooperatively repress transcription in parallel with histone deacetylation. We propose that mSin3A targets OGT to promoters to inactivate transcription factors and RNA polymerase II by O-GlcNAc modification, which acts in concert with histone deacetylation to promote gene silencing in an efficient and specific manner.
SU‐GG‐T‐132: Application of Non Flat Beams for Breast Radiotherapy Using Direct Aperture Optimization

Purpose: Non‐flat beam is attractive for SBRT and IMRT delivery. This study is to investigate whether non‐flat beam can achieve uniform dose distribution for whole breast irradiation. Method and Materials: A 6MV non‐flat and flat beams were commissioned in an Oncor Linac (Siemens). Fifteen early‐stage breast cancer patients were selected. For each patient, three plans were generated for comparison: (a) clinically approved forward planning (FP); (b) mixed open fields using flat beams with direct aperture openand DAO IMRT fields using non‐flat beams (mixed DAO); (c) All open and DAO IMRT fields using non‐flat beams (non‐flat DAO). All plans were prescribed for >95% of the breast volume receiving the prescription dose. Plan quality was evaluated according to homogeneity index (HI), conformality index (COIN), D95%, V105% and D1cc as well as V20Gy to ipsilateral lung, V1Gy to contralateral breast and V25Gy to heart for left breast. All treatment plans were created using Pinnacle 8.0. Results: No significant difference was observed for COIN among all plans (all p>0.05). Average HIs of FP, mixed DAO, and non‐flat DAO were 0.88±0.01, 0.88±0.01 and 0.87±0.01, respectively. The mixed DAO had significantly lower V105% than FP and non‐flat DAO. For organs at risk (OAR), no significant difference was observed. For D1cc, non‐flat DAO was significantly higher than FP and mixed DAO (p<0.005). The lowest MU required was FP plan without wedges, followed by mixed DAO, FP with wedges, and non‐flat DAO plans. Conclusion: Both mixed DAO and non‐flat DAO plans can achieve equivalent planning quality as the clinically approved flat‐beam FP plans. In addition, the mixed DAO plan has smaller hotspot area than non‐flat DAO and FP while dose to OARs is not significantly different. Overall, non‐flat beams are applicable to breast RT.
Temozolomide-associated myelodysplasia 6 years after treatment of a patient with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor

Temozolomide (TMZ) is a commonly used alkylating agent for the treatment of high-grade gliomas. Here we report the first case of a patient treated with TMZ for a well-differentiated neuroendocrine ...
Negotiating Place and Value: Geographies of Waste and Scavenging in Buenos Aires

Abstract: This article focuses on debates over the place and value of waste and waste scavengers in Buenos Aires during and following the economic crisis of 2002 in order to consider how waste functions as a fundamental category for organizing social space. I argue that conceptualizations of waste as both zero value and “matter out of place” need to be combined with a recognition of the commodity potential of waste in order to better understand how waste works to constitute social structures and space. I demonstrate that while the displacement of waste and waste scavengers associated with the crisis opened a space for the transformation of established social relations, in ongoing negotiations, waste continues to be defined as that which belongs elsewhere and is of no value, reinforcing the marginalization of garbage scavengers.
Epigenetic mechanisms in neurological disease

The exploration of brain epigenomes, which consist of various types of DNA methylation and covalent histone modifications, is providing new and unprecedented insights into the mechanisms of neural development, neurological disease and aging. Traditionally, chromatin defects in the brain were considered static lesions of early development that occurred in the context of rare genetic syndromes, but it is now clear that mutations and maladaptations of the epigenetic machinery cover a much wider continuum that includes adult-onset neurodegenerative disease. Here, we describe how recent advances in neuroepigenetics have contributed to an improved mechanistic understanding of developmental and degenerative brain disorders, and we discuss how they could influence the development of future therapies for these conditions.
Optimization of torque on an optically driven micromotor by manipulation of the index of refraction

Since the 1970’s, the focused laser beam has become a familiar tool to manipulate neutral, dielectric micro-objects. A number of authors, including Higurashi and Gauthier, have described the effects of radiation pressure from laser light on microrotors. Collett, et al. developed a wave, rather than a ray optic, approach in the calculation of such forces on a microrotor for the first time. This paper describes a modification to the design of a laser driven, radiation pressure microrotor, intended to improve the optically generated torque. Employing the wave approach, the electric and magnetic fields in the vicinity of the rotor are calculated using the finite difference time domain (FDTD) method, which takes into account the wave nature of the incident light. Forces are calculated from the application of Maxwell’s stress tensor over the surfaces of the rotor. Results indicate a significant increase in torque when the index of refraction of the microrotor is changed from a single value to an inhomogeneous profile. The optical fiber industry has successfully employed a variation in the index of refraction across the cross section of a fiber for the purpose of increasing the efficiency of light transmission. Therefore, it is hoped that various fabrication methods can be utilized for causing desired changes in the index of refraction of an optically driven microrotor. Various profiles of the index of refraction inside a microrotor are considered for optimization of torque. Simulation methodology and results of torque on a microrotor for various profiles of the index of refraction are presented. Guidelines for improvised fabrication of efficient microrotors may then be obtained from these profiles.
Visual tracking with sensing dynamics compensation using the Expectation-Maximization algorithm

Advances in vision-based technologies allow robots to perform sophisticated and intelligent tasks. Even with these advances, there still remain inherent problems with using vision-based technologies. Slow sampling rate and large latency is a problem associated with most vision hardware used in industry. We refer to these characteristics as the sensing dynamics associated with the vision sensor. This paper presents a compensation method that alleviates sensing dynamics issues in visual feedback tracking problems. We view the sensing dynamics compensation problem as two separate mathematical problems. Namely, we first deal with identifying the target model and then we deal with estimating the target position using the identified model and delayed measurements. The Expectation-Maximization algorithm and Kalman filtering are utilized to solve each problem respectively. The visual servo scheme associated with the proposed approach is also studied. Simulations and experiments are designed to test the performance capability of the proposed method.
Kinematics and strain distribution of a thrust-related fold system in the Lewis thrust plate, northwestern Montana (U.S.A.)

Abstract In order to understand interactions between motion along thrusts and the associated style of deformation and strain distribution in their hangingwalls, geologic mapping and strain measurements were conducted in an excellently exposed thrust-related fold system in the Lewis thrust plate, northwestern Montana. This system consists of: (1) an E-directed basal thrust (the Gunsight thrust) that has a flat-ramp geometry and a slip of about 3.6 km; (2) an E-verging asymmetric anticline with its nearly vertical forelimb truncated by the basal thrust from below; (3) a 4-km wide fold belt, the frontal fold complex, that lies directly in front of the E-verging anticline; (4) a W-directed bedding-parallel fault (the Mount Thompson fault) that bounds the top of the frontal fold belt and separates it from the undeformed to broadly folded strata above; and (5) regionally developed, W-dipping spaced cleavage. Although the overall geometry of the thrust-related fold system differs from any previously documented fault-related folds, the E-verging anticline itself resembles geometrically a Rich-type fault-bend fold. The observed initial cut-off and fold interlimb angles of this anticline, however, cannot be explained by cross-section balancing models for the development of either a fault-bend fold or a fault propagation fold. Possible origins for the E-verging anticline include (1) the fold initiated as an open fault-bend fold and tightened only later during its emplacement along the basal thrust and (2) the fold started as either a fault-bend or a fault-propagation fold, but simultaneous or subsequent volume change incompatible with any balanced cross-section models altered its shape. Strain in the thrust-related fold system was determined by the preferred orientation of mica and chlorite grains. The direction and magnitude of the post-compaction strain varies from place to place. Strains in the foreclimb of the hangingwall anticline imply bedding-parallel thinning at some localities and thickening at others. This inhomogeneity may be caused by the development of thrusts and folds. Strain in the backlimb of the hangingwall anticline implies bedding-parallel stretching in the thrust transport direction. This could be the effect of bending as the E-verging anticline was tightened and transported across the basal thrust ramp. Strain measured next to the Gunsight thrust again indicates locally varying shortening and extension in the transport direction, perhaps in response to inhomogeneous friction on the fault or else to a history of alternating strain hardening and softening in the basal thrust zone.
Regulation of the Ascaris major sperm protein (MSP) cytoskeleton by intracellular pH.

The development and locomotion of the amoeboid sperm of the nematode, Ascaris suum, depend on precise control of the assembly of their unique major sperm protein (MSP) filament system. We used fluorescence ratio imaging of cells loaded with BCECF to show that intracellular pH (pHi) is involved in controlling MSP polymerization in vivo. Spermatogenesis is marked by a cycle of MSP assembly-disassembly-reassembly that coincides with changes in pHi. In spermatocytes, which contain MSP in paracrystalline fibrous bodies, pHi was 6.8, 0.6 units higher than in spermatids, which disassemble the fibrous bodies and contain no assemblies of MSP filaments. Activation of spermatids to complete development resulted in rapid increase in pHi to 6.4 and reappearance of filaments. Treatment of spermatocytes with weak acids caused the fibrous bodies to disassemble whereas incubation of spermatids in weak bases induced MSP assembly. The MSP filaments in spermatozoa are organized into fiber complexes that flow continuously rearward from the leading edge of the pseudopod. These cells established a pseudopodial pH gradient with pHi 0.15 units higher at the leading edge, where fiber complexes assemble, than at the base of the pseudopod, where disassembly occurs. Acidification of these cells caused the MSP cytoskeleton to disassemble and abolished the pH gradient. Acid removal resulted in reassembly of the cytoskeleton, re-establishment of the pH gradient, and re-initiation of motility. MSP assembly in sperm undergoing normal development and motility and in cells responding to chemical manipulation of pHi occurs preferentially at membranes. Thus, we propose that filament assembly in sperm is controlled by pH-sensitive MSP-membrane interaction. © 1994 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
2-Aminofluorene modified DNA duplex exists in two interchangeable conformations.

One– and two–dimensional NMR shows that the carcinogen 2–aminofluorene exists in two unique, interchangeable conformations when covalently bound to a model human c–H–ras1 proto–oncogene codon 61 oligomer duplex. In one conformation the 2–aminofluorene moiety protrudes out of the major groove leaving the Watson–Crick base pairing of the cytosine and 2–aminofluorene–guanine bases intact, consistent with the ability of replicating enzymes to bypass the lesion and correctly incorporate cytosine. The second form of the modified oligomer duplex may be representative of a pre–mutagenic conformation in that the 2–aminofluorene moiety is stacked within the DNA helix, disrupting base pairing between the 2–aminofluorene–modified guanine and its complementary cytosine.
Vibration analysis of adhesively bonded lap joint, part II: Numerical solution

Abstract This paper is the second of two papers dealing with dynamic modeling of a bonded lap joint system. The theoretical development of the model to study the coupled transverse and longitudinal vibration of a bonded joint system was described in Part I. The numerical solution of the equations of motion along with boundary and continuity conditions as derived in Part I yields the system resonance frequencies, modal loss factors and mode shapes. The details of the numerical solution scheme along with a discussion of results are presented in this paper.
Properties of GaInNAsSb narrow ridge waveguide laser diodes in continuous-wave operation at 1.55um

The room-temperature 1.55 m m continuous-wave (CW) operation of single-lateral mode GaInNAsSb ridge waveguide lasers grown on GaAs is reported. Detailed measurements of the light output power and spectral properties were used to assess the device characteristics as a function of applied current and temperature in both CW and pulsed operation. An exemplary, 3 m ×750 m m, device with a 92% high-reflectivity back facet coating exhibited a record low CW threshold current of 63~mA, with a peak output power of 15~mW. High-resolution modal gain spectra were extracted from amplified spontaneous emission measurements yielding the internal loss (8.0~cm -1 , transparency current (50~mA) and the wavelength dependence of the differential gain. The latter was used with careful measurements of the Fabry-Perot mode shift with injection current to determine the linewidth enhancement factor of 2.8 at the transparency current. The first measurement of intrinsic modulation frequency in 1.55 m m GaInNAsSb lasers is reported, based on the observed relative intensity noise (RIN). The RIN measurements indicate a maximum modulation frequency of 7.2~GHz, which is a promising result for future telecommunications applications.
The photoelectric effect at high energies

Abstract The total cross section for the photoejection of a 1 s electron is calculated in the limit of high energies. Although initial and final states are both represented by the exact Dirac wave functions, it is possible to carry out all operations, except the last, in closed form. The final integral is evaluated by approximate analytical techniques as well as by machine calculation. The results are not in quantitative agreement with previous work. Symmetries of the high-energy matrix elements permit an immediate extension of the discussion to bound-pair production (annihilation) and capture-bremsstrahlung.
General learning algorithm for robot vision

Abstract The problem of vision-based robot positioning arid trackingis addressed. A general learning algorithm is presented fordetermining the mapping between robot position and objectappearance. The robot is first moved through several displace-ments with respect to its desired position, and a large set ofobject images is acquired. This image set is compressed us-ingprincipal component analysis to obtain a low-dimensionalsubspace. Variations in object images due to robot displace-ments are represented as a compact parametrized manifold inthe subspace. While positioning or tracking, errors in end-effector coordinates are efficiently computed from a singlebrightness image using the parametric manifold representa-tion. The learning component enables accurate visual controlwithout any prior hand-eye calibration. Several experimentshave been conducted to demonstrate the practicalfeasibility ofthe proposed positioning/tracking approach and its relevanceto industrial applications. Introduction
Estrogen catabolism: In vivo formation of 14CO2 from ring A labeled estradiol

Abstract The catabolism of estradiol-4-14C and estradiol-16-14C was studied in the rat by observing the formation of labeled carbon dioxide. The results from the first 24 hours following administration indicate that a significant amount of 14CO2 (P
Upper Body Kinematics of Relaxed Volunteers, Braced Volunteers, Hybrid III ATD, and PMHS in Low-Speed Frontal Sled Tests

Human occupant responses in motor vehicle collisions (MVCs) are commonly predicted and evaluated in a laboratory using surrogates including human volunteers, anthropomorphic test devices (ATDs), and post mortem human surrogates (PMHSs) [1]. The ultimate goal of these surrogates is to demonstrate a similar response to humans in MVCs that can be used to evaluate human tolerance and enhance vehicle design and safety. The distinguishing attribute of human volunteers that non-human surrogates do not currently possess is the combination of identical human anthropometry, anatomy, and physiologic response of the target population, including resting muscle tone and active bracing capabilities. All human volunteer laboratory testing must be performed at sub-injurious levels due to ethical constraints, while non-human surrogates can be used to examine injurious or traumatic events. Given the capabilities and shortcomings of each surrogate in automobile safety research, performing matched tests with these surrogates can aid in the understanding of the biomechanical response of humans in an impact environment, leading to improvements in ATD design and increased efficacy of safety devices. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate volunteer, ATD, and PMHS occupant kinematic responses in matched low-speed frontal sled tests.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
Grandmothers' Involvement Among Young Adolescents Growing Up in Poverty

Grandmothers often play an important role in low-income minority families through providing support to their adult children as well as care to their grandchildren. However, little is known about how varying types of grandmother involvement may influence their grandchildren's functioning. This paper uses data from Welfare, Children, and Families: A Three-City Study, a longitudinal study sampling low-income minority youth from high-poverty neighborhoods, to explore how young adolescents (age 10–14 years at Time 1) function over time based on grandmothers' residential status and their level of caretaking responsibility. Analyses find that young adolescents with a custodial grandmother displayed greater levels of externalizing problem behaviors over time while young adolescents with a co-residing grandmother reported fewer depressive symptoms over time as compared with their peers. The importance of considering the influence of grandmothers who are more involved, especially among low-income, minority families, in research and practice will be discussed.
Catalytic activity of metal organic framework Cu3(BTC)2 in the cycloaddition of CO2 to epichlorohydrin reaction

Abstract We demonstrate the novel, catalytic activity of metal organic framework of Cu 3 (BTC) 2 catalysts in the synthesis of chloropropene carbonate from CO 2 and epichlorohydrin. The catalysts display moderate epoxide conversions, and moderate selectivities to chloropropene carbonate at 100 °C. No solvents or co-catalysts were required. It is suggested that Lewis acid copper (II) sites in the Cu 3 (BTC) 2 framework promoted the adsorption of carbon dioxide on the solid surface and its further conversion to the carbonate.
A Microprocessor-Based Optical/Digital Processor

The marriage of optical and digital processing techniques into hybrid optical/digital systems is a powerful and practical system architecture. It allows one to retain the high-speed and parallel processing features of an optical processor while achieving the control, flexibility, and data analysis advantages of digital technology. In this paper, we describe our new microprocessor-based optical/digital interface, its performance specifications, operations achievable, and present several examples of this new system.© (1977) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Comparison Of Ultrasound And X-Ray Tomography Ultrasound - A Poor Man's C.A.T. ?

X-ray C.A.T. has proved to be invaluable to display intracranial and orbital lesions and should be valuable in the thorax. However, instantaneous imaging provided by ultrasound allows the heart to be displayed while the lack of ionising radiation hazard permits its use in obstetrics and in screening healthy populations. In the non-gravid abdomen, ultrasound has many advantages including excellent resolution, no radiation exposure and economy. The relative merits of x-ray C.A.T. in the abdomen have yet to be evaluated.
A new player in X identification: the CLAMP protein is a key factor in Drosophila dosage compensation

Dosage compensation adjusts the expression levels of genes on one or both targeted sex chromosomes in heterogametic species. This process results in the normalized transcriptional output of important and essential gene families encoded on multiple chromosomes. The mechanisms of dosage compensation have been studied in many model organisms, including Drosophila melanogaster (fly), Caenorhabditis elegans (worm), and Mus musculus (mouse). Although the mechanisms of dosage compensations differ among these species, all of these processes rely on the initial discrimination of the X chromosome from autosomes. Recently, a new paradigm for how the X chromosome is targeted for regulation was identified in Drosophila. This mechanism involves a newly identified zinc finger protein, CLAMP. Here, we review important factors involved in dosage compensation across species with special focus on the fly. Understanding how the newly identified CLAMP protein is involved in X targeting in the fly could provide key insights into how the X chromosome is initially identified across species.
Observations on the Life Stages of Sphaerothecum destruens n. g., n. sp., a Mesomycetozoean Fish Pathogen Formally Referred to as the Rosette Agent

The rosette agent is an obligate intracellular parasite that causes morbidity and mortality in salmonid fish. In laboratory cultures, the spore stage (2-6 microm diam.) replicates in a salmonid cell line by sequential asexual division, giving rise to daughter cells. If infected cell cultures are transferred to distilled water, the spore stage undergoes internal division to give rise to at least 5 cells each of which develops into a uniflagellated zoospore with a body of approximately 2 microm and a flagellum approximately 10 microm long. Zoosporulation does not occur in cell culture medium alone, artificial seawater, or phosphate-buffered saline. This parasite is currently classified as a member of the Class Mesomycetozoea (formerly Ichthyosporea) based on phylogenetic analyses of the small subunit ribosomal DNA of three different isolates from fish. Given these new morphological observations combined with the available molecular phylogenetic data on other mesomycetozoeans, we propose to classify the rosette agent as Sphaerothecum destruens, n. g., n. sp. This new genus has unique features including (1) intracellular development of spore stages in various organs eliciting a host granulomatous response; and (2) the differentiation of mature spores into multiple, flagellated zoospores. Taken together, these characteristics clearly distinguish it from the closely related genera Dermocystidium and Rhinosporidium.
Reducing High-Risk Sexual Behaviors among College Athletes

The purpose of this article is to raise awareness about the need to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and reduce high-risk sexual behaviors among college student-athletes. Athletes engage in risky sexual behaviors at a higher frequency with more sexual partners than their college peers (Faurie, Pontier, & Raymond, 2004; Wetherill & Fromme, 2007). In an effort to reduce the consequences of high-risk sexual behaviors among college student-athletes, we suggest the use of targeted screening, vaccinations, and comprehensive programming. Education efforts can be integrated into existing sport psychology and life skills programs to address broader health concerns among athletes.
Acute promyelocytic leukemia appearing as spontaneous oral hemorrhage: report of case

Oral signs and symptoms may often signify a serious underlying systemic disease. This case report describes a 45-year-old Oriental male with spontaneous oral hemorrhage and submucosal bullae of 4 days' duration. These oral findings represent the initial manifestations of acute promyelocytic leukemia. An aggressive postdiagnostic course was taken; however, the patient died 8 days after the diagnosis was established.
Low Rate Uniform Scalar Quantization of Memoryless Gaussian Sources

The low-rate (< 1 bits per sample) operational rate-distortion performance of uniform scalar quantizers for the memoryless Gaussian source is studied. Approximate analytical expressions for the operational rate-distortion function are derived, and the accuracy of the derived function is verified through simulation. It is shown that in the zero-rate limit the derived operational rate-distortion function is first-order optimal with respect to the Shannon lower bound. The derived function is used to study the performance of uniform scalar quantizers for the Gaussian Wyner-Ziv problem. Lastly, the derived low-rate rate-distortion function is used to provide improved low-rate bit allocation for jointly Gaussian vectors.
Direct calculation of resonance energies and widths using an R -matrix approach

A modified $R$-matrix technique is presented which determines the eigenvalues and widths of resonant states by the direct diagonalization of a complex, non-Hermitian matrix. The method utilizes only real basis sets and requires a minimum of complex arithmetic. The method is applied to two problems, a set of coupled square wells and the ${\ensuremath{\Pi}}_{g}$ resonance of ${\mathrm{N}}_{2}$ in the static-exchange approximation. The results of the calculation are in good agreement with other methods and converge very quickly with basis-set size.
Mitochondrial Binding of Hexokinase II Inhibits Bax-induced Cytochrome c Release and Apoptosis

Proapoptotic proteins such as Bax, undergo translocation to the mitochondria during apoptosis, where they mediate the release of intermembrane space proteins including cytochromec. Bax binds to the voltage-dependent anion channel (VDAC). VDAC is a β-barrel protein located in the outer mitochondrial membrane. In planar lipid bilayers, Bax and VDAC form a channel through which cytochrome c can pass. Hexokinase II (HXK II) also binds to VDAC. HXK II catalyzes the first step of glycolysis and is highly expressed in transformed cells, where over 70% of it is bound to the mitochondria. The present study demonstrates that HXK II interferes with the ability of Bax to bind to mitochondria and release cytochrome c. Detachment of HXK II from the mitochondria-enriched fraction isolated from HeLa cells promoted the binding of recombinant Bax-Δ19 and subsequent cytochromec release. Similarly, the addition of recombinant HXK II to the mitochondria-enriched fraction isolated from hepatocytes, cells that do not express HXK II endogenously, prevented the ability of recombinant Bax-Δ19 to bind to the mitochondria and promote cytochrome c release. Similar results were found in intact cells, in which the detachment of mitochondrial bound HXK II or its overexpression potentiated and inhibited, respectively, Bax-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and cell death.
Mass transfer properties of gases in fluorocarbons.

The solubility and diffusion coefficient of oxygen and carbon dioxide were measured in both the pure and emulsified of two fluorocarbons, perfluorotributylamine and perfluorobutyl perfluorotetrahydrofuran. The solubility coefficient and the diffusivity of oxygen in the pure form of the fluorocarbons decreased with decreasing partial pressure of Oxygen ( $$P_{O_2 } $$ ), but the solubility coefficient and the diffusivity of carbon dioxide were independent of its partial pressure. The solubility and diffusion of oxygen in the emulsified form of the fluorocarbons followed the pattern expected from the behavior of oxygen in the pure fluorocarbon. The experimental results suggest that there exists a physical and/or chemical interaction between oxygen and the fluorocarbons, and this interaction is more pronounced at partial pressures below 150 mm Hg. Comparisons of the oxygen content in the fluorocarbon emulsions with that in whole blood show that at $$P_{O_2 } $$ of 760 mm Hg, the oxygen content in the fluorocarbon emulsions is approximately one-half that in whole blood, but at $$P_{O_2 } $$ of 50–150 mm Hg, the oxygen content in the emulsions decreases to values which are less than one-tenth that of whole blood.
Bifurcating distributive system using Monte Carlo method

A new method to generate a bifurcating distributive system is presented. The method utilizes random points inside a given area and is sensitive to the global and local concentrations of the points. The algorithm is highly efficient compared to the current area-halving algorithms.
Effects of 6-thiopurines on the transforming activity of Bacillus subtilis deoxyribonucleic acid

Abstract 6-Thioguanine (6-TG) and 6-mercaptopurine (6-MP) have been reported to produce cytotoxicity due to incorporation into DNA. Although some investigators have performed in vitro transcription studies with synthetic polymers containing 6-TG, the DNA isolated from a cell population exposed to thiopurines has not been evaluated for its biological activity. Bacillus subtilis UTH-8505 was grown in the presence of 6-TG, 6-MP, bromodeoxyuridine (BUdR), arabinosyladenine (AraA) and 2,6-diaminopurine. DNA isolated from these and control cultures was used to transform B. subtilis T 3 , a strain lacking tryptophan synthetase, to prototrophy. 6-MP exposure decreased the transforming activity 80 per cent; 6-TG, 20 per cent; BUdR, 50 per cent; and in single determinations AraA and 2,4-diaminopurine were without effect. 6-MP was also the most effective growth inhibitor of B. subtilis . Base composition and melting temperatures of the DNA from 6-MP, 6-TG and BUdR cultures were not altered. Although the methods employed did not permit unequivocal demonstration of 6-TG incorporation, a maximal estimate of one 6-TG molecule substituted for every 500 guanine residues in the DNA was inferred. Thus, extremely low levels of incorporation may alter DNA function, or the reduced transforming activity is produced by another mechanism.
ChIP-chip Investigation of Epigenetic Changes in Response to Various Glucose Environments

Abstract With the rise in incidences of Diabetes within the Middle East, it will be important to understand the environmental and genetic components of the disease. Epigenetic changes, including DNA methylation and Histone modifications, can be a response to environmental signals resulting in stable gene expression changes. To begin understanding the epigenetic effects of glucose in the diet we conducted Chromatin Immunoprecipitation followed by tiling array (ChIP-chip) analysis on in vitro cultures of cells grown in varying amounts of glucose. We have investigated the effects on DNA methylation and various Histone methylation levels. Results from this study are presented. Initial results from this study will guide more detailed analysis of the progress of epigenetic changes, their stability, and their possible transmission to future generations.
Supercomputer solutions of partial differential equation problems in computational fluid dynamics and in control

Abstract This paper discusses solution methods for partial differential equation problems occuring in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and in control. The problems considered here are (i) the numerical simulation of incompressible viscous flows modeled by the Navier-Stokes equations and (ii) a boundary control problem for the wave equation. Both problems are approximated by a combination of finite element methods for the space discretization and finite difference methods for the time discretization. To achieve the solution, those methods are combined with preconditioned conjugate gradient algorithms; the accurate solution of the control problem also requires an additional Tychonoff regularization procedure.
Laserlight cues for gait freezing in Parkinson's disease: an open-label study.

Freezing of gait (FOG) and falls are major sources of disability for Parkinson's disease (PD) patients, and show limited responsiveness to medications. We assessed the efficacy of visual cues for overcoming FOG in an open-label study of 26 patients with PD. The change in the frequency of falls was a secondary outcome measure. Subjects underwent a 1-2 month baseline period of use of a cane or walker without visual cues, followed by 1 month using the same device with the laserlight visual cue. The laserlight visual cue was associated with a modest but significant mean reduction in FOG Questionnaire (FOGQ) scores of 1.25 ± 0.48 (p = 0.0152, two-tailed paired t-test), representing a 6.6% improvement compared to the mean baseline FOGQ scores of 18.8. The mean reduction in fall frequency was 39.5 ± 9.3% with the laserlight visual cue among subjects experiencing at least one fall during the baseline and subsequent study periods (p = 0.002; two-tailed one-sample t-test with hypothesized mean of 0). Though some individual subjects may have benefited, the overall mean performance on the timed gait test (TGT) across all subjects did not significantly change. However, among the 4 subjects who underwent repeated testing of the TGT, one showed a 50% mean improvement in TGT performance with the laserlight visual cue (p = 0.005; two-tailed paired t-test). This open-label study provides evidence for modest efficacy of a laserlight visual cue in overcoming FOG and reducing falls in PD patients.
The glitter of everyday memory…and the gold.

In 1989, an article in the American Psychologist entitled "The Bankruptcy of Everyday Memory" caused quite a stir. It was read by many as an accusation against a class of memory researchers who would purportedly sacrifice the quest for "truly generalizable principles" by embracing the "glitter of everyday methods" (Banaji & Crowder, 1989, p. 1192). The membership criteria for qualification in the everyday memory club were curiously disjunctive. Some "'everyday" researchers went out of their way to study memory by using ecologically interesting stimulus materials (such as a 47-day bicycle tour through Scandanavia). Others used realistically manipulated states of consciousness (such as alcohol intoxication), or colorful subject populations (such as anyone who is not a college undergraduate), or naturalistic observation (such as memory for an actual crime). In their abstract, Banaji and Crowder told readers that they would be criticizing the everyday memory approach. In the main article, they specifically complained about the past decade of passionate rhetoric espoused by the everyday types who allegedly claimed that important questions about memory could be tackled "'if only researchers looked to the 'real world' for hypothesis validation" (p. 1185). Bankruptcy was the word used in the title and again on the first page when readers were forewarned that an argument would be made that the move to develop an ecologically valid psychology of memory "has proven itself largely bankrupt" (Banaji & Crowder, 1989, p. 1185). Why bankrupt? Banaji and Crowder said plainly: "No new principles of memory have been discovered; and no methods of data collection have been developed that add sophistication or precision" (p. 1185). Rather, any dramatic emergent principles that were uncovered turned out to be "everyday manifestations of laboratory wisdom" (p. 1190). Moreover, the everyday memory movement, they worried, "carries the potential danger of compromising genuine accomplishments of our young endeavor" (p. 1185). Reactions to the Article
Haemodynamic response to induction of anaesthesia with ketamine/midazolam.

The haemodynamic responses following induction of anaesthesia with ketamine and midazolam have not been determined previously. Twenty adult patients for elective myocardial revascularization were randomized to two regimens for induction of anaesthesia. Patients in Group I received ketamine, 2 mg.kg-1, and midazolam, 0.2 mg.kg-1 and those in Group II received ketamine, 2 mg.kg-1, and midazolam, 0.4 mg.kg-1. Measurements were recorded at baseline, 1 min post-induction, and at one, three, five and ten minutes after tracheal intubation. Tachycardia and hypertension (greater than 20% increases from awake baseline values) were treated with esmolol, 250 micrograms.kg-1. There were 11 patients in Group I and nine patients in Group II. There were no significant intergroup differences in demographic or haemodynamic variables. Both groups had decreases (P less than 0.05), in stroke volume, pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, and right ventricular end-diastolic volume at multiple study intervals following anaesthetic induction. None of these changes required clinical intervention. Five patients (all in Group II) had hypertensive responses to tracheal intubation. Preoperative hypertension (mean arterial pressure greater than or equal to 100 mmHg) was a predictor (P less than 0.05) of a hypertensive response to intubation, independent of the midazolam dose. Intravenous ketamine and midazolam was associated with a high incidence (25%) of haemodynamic responses to tracheal intubation. The higher dose of midazolam did not provide any haemodynamic advantage.
A genetic-algorithm-based method for tuning fuzzy logic controllers

It has been demonstrated many times in practice that fuzzy logic controllers have an important role in rule-based expert systems. However, it is essential for a fuzzy logic controller to have an appropriate set of rules to perform at the desired level. The linguistic structure of the fuzzy logic controller allows a tentative linguistic policy to be used as an initial rule base. At the design stage, if one can assemble a reasonably good collection of rules, it may then be possible to tune these rules to improve the controller performance. In this paper, a genetic-algorithm-based method for tuning the rule base of a fuzzy logic controller is presented. The method is used in tuning two PD-like fuzzy logic controllers and the results are discussed.