cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Robust Visual Tracking Using Particle Filtering on SL(3) Group

Considering the process of objects imaging in the camera is essentially the projection transformation process. The paper proposes a novel visual tracking method using particle filtering on SL(3) group to predict the changes of the target area boundaries of next moment, which is used for dynamic model. Meanwhile, covariance matrices are applied for observation model. Extensive experiments prove that the proposed method can realize stable and accurate tracking for object with significant geometric deformation, even for nonrigid objects.
Price fluctuations when only prices reveal information

Abstract This paper provides a qualitative explanation for the observation that prices in financial markets fluctuate even in periods in which no agents receive any new information. This phenonmenon is explained in the framework of an equilibrium of prices, plans and price expectation in the style of Radner (1972) in the case of asymmetric information.
Tooth developmental biology: disruptions to enamel-matrix assembly and its impact on biomineralization

Dental enamel is a composite bioceramic material that is the hardest tissue in the vertebrate body, containing long, thin crystallites of substituted hydroxyapatite (HAP). Over a lifetime of an organism, enamel functions under repeated and immense loads, generally without catastrophic failure. Enamel is a product of ectoderm-derived cells called ameloblasts. Recent investigations on the formation of enamel using cell and molecular approaches are now being coupled to biomechanical investigations at the nanoscale and mesoscale levels. For amelogenin, the principal structural protein for forming enamel, we have identified two domains that are required for its proper self-assembly into supramolecular structures referred to as nanospheres. Nanospheres are believed to control HAP crystal habit. Other structural proteins of the enamel matrix include ameloblastin and enamelin, but little is known about their biological importance. Transgenic animals have been prepared to investigate the effect of overexpression of wild-type or mutated enamel proteins on the developing enamel matrix. Amelogenin transgenes were engineered to contain deletions to either of the two self-assembly domains and these alterations produced significant defects in the enamel. Additional transgenic animal lines have been prepared and studied and each gives additional insights into the mechanisms for enamel biofabrication. This study summarizes the observed enamel phenotypes of recently derived transgenic animals. These data are being used to help define the role of each of the enamel structural proteins in enamel and study how each of these proteins impact on enamel biomineralization.
Effect of very thin Cr underlayers on the micromagnetic structure of RF sputtered CoCrTa thin films

The effects of very thin Cr underlayers on the initial susceptibilities and micromagnetic structures of RF sputtered CoCrTa thin films have been studied. It was found that the initial susceptibility of the CoCrTa films on thin Cr underlayers is a factor of 2.5 to 3.5 times smaller than the value of the CoCrTa film without any Cr underlayer. The micromagnetic images of these CoCrTa films on thin Cr underlayers also exhibit a different feature from the CoCrTa film deposited on substrate with no Cr underlayer. The thicker the Cr underlayers, the finer are the micromagnetic images observed at both the as-deposited and the remanent state. It is very likely that the Cr underlayers induce stress in the CoCrTa/Cr double-layer thin films, and, through magnetoelastic interactions, the micromagnetic structures will be refined by the formation of barriers which pin the domain walls. This model could explain the low initial susceptibility and high in-plane coercivity in the RF-sputtered thin CoCrTa/Cr double layer films. >
Evaluating Evidence‐Based Practice Behaviors in Team Contexts

The article explores the application of the Hall and Hord (2010) levels of use model to the context of interprofessional teams in health care settings. The discussion provides a framework for evaluating the progression of evidence-based practice behaviors over time. Although several forms of guidance exist for measuring the strength and characteristics of health care teams, there do not appear to be frameworks in place for assessing the evolution of evidence-based practices in a team context.
Bilingual education in the 21st century: a global perspective

Bilingual education in the 21st century: a global perspective, by Ofelia Garcia, Oxford and Malden, MA, Wiley-Blackwell, 2009, xiv+481 pp., £60.00/US$104.95 (hardback), ISBN 978-1-4051-1993-1; £24....
Effect of an aminosilane on the cathodic delamination of adhesive bonds between neoprene and steel

Cathodic delamination of adhesive bonds between neoprene and steel during immersion in 3.5% artificial sea water (ASW) at a potential of -1.42 V vs. SCE was investigated. Joints prepared using a commercial adhesive and primer delaminated at a much faster rate than those prepared using the same adhesive but with γ-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (γ-APS) added to the primer. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) was used to examine the failure surfaces and it was determined that failure was always near the primer/oxide interface. Zinc was detected on the failure surfaces of joints prepared using the commercial primer but not on those of joints prepared with the modified primer. Nitrogen was detected on the failure and fracture surfaces of joints prepared using the modified primer but not on those of joints prepared using the commercial primer. The nitrogen was present as both free amine and protonated amine formed by reaction of γ-APS with the hydrochloric acid evolved from chlorinated rubber in the primer duri...
Trunk muscle response to lifting unbalanced loads with and without knowledge of centre of mass.

Abstract Objective . To examine the effects of lifting a bin with a variable centre of mass on muscle activity, with and without knowledge of the centre of mass. Background . Numerous parameters related to lifting have been examined yet the effects of changing the load centre of mass in two dimensions, with or without knowledge, has not been examined. Methods . Participants lifted a 6 kg industrial tote bin with a 7 and 11 kg mass randomly placed in each of nine compartments, into which the interior of the bin was partitioned. Participants were not restricted in lifting style other than using the handles, which were equipped with force gauges. Two series (9 lifts per series) were completed using the 7 kg load without knowledge of the load placement and one series with knowledge of the load placement. One series was completed using an 11 kg mass without knowledge of load placement. Electromyographic activity of the upper and lower erector spinae, latissimus dorsi and the external obliques were collected bilaterally. Results . Left and right muscle pairs demonstrated mirror images for all muscles with lowest activity levels when the load was placed nearer the lifter in the sagittal plane. Peak electromyographic activity of the upper erector spinae and latissimus dorsi increased with the weight in the compartments nearest the body and/or the ipsilateral handle. Conversely, peak electromyographic activity of the lower erector spinae and the obliques increased when the weight was on the contralateral side. Peak upper erector electromyographic activity reached up to 41% of maximum and the lower erectors reached 50% of maximum, while the obliques and latissimus dorsi were below 5% and 7%, respectively. No electromyographic activity differences were found between the known and unknown load placements. Discussion . A segmental control strategy appears to exist during lifting that works from the upper to lower torso based on peak electromyographic activity activity. When lifting a bin with a varied centre of mass, highest peak electromyographic activity for the upper and lower erector spinae occurred when the load is closest to the body, regardless of load knowledge. Based on our findings with asymmetrical loads, we conclude that the moments acting on the wrist play an important role in spinal loading and must be included in future studies. Relevance Asymmetrical loads are often encountered in daily life. Regardless of the lifter’s knowledge of the balance of the load, the differential and asymmetrical loading of the muscles of the back play a role in the development of low back pain.
Transplacental transport of N-acetylcysteine in an ovine model

Abstract Study objective: Acetaminophen freely crosses the placenta, and acetaminopheningestion is the most frequent intentional overdose in pregnancy. Although most patients do well after maternal treatment with the antidote N -acetylcysteine (NAC), fetal death with massive hepatic necrosis has occurred. It has never been shown whether NAC crosses the placenta to yield fetal plasma levels equal to those associated with hepato-protective effects in human beings. Our study objective was to evaluate this in a widely accepted large animal model for maternal-fetal research. Design and type of participants: A nonblinded experiment was performed using four domestic sheep at near-term gestation. Interventions: NAC 150 mglkg IV was administered to the ewe over 15minutes. After induction of anesthesia, the fetal head was delivered surgically and a neck vein cannulated for blood sampling. Maternal and fetal blood samples were obtained at the end of NAC infusion, at 30- and then at 60-minute intervals for four hours. Plasma NAC levels were determined by gas chromatography/mass spectroscopy (detection limit, 2 μ g/m; quantification limit, 5 μ g/mL). Results: Maternal peak plasma NAC levels were 619, 631, 1.757, and 2.512, μ g/mL, respectively, within 30 minutes of infusion. However, NAC was only minimally detectable in plasma of two fetal animals and transiently reached quantifiable levels in two others. None of the fetal animals attained serial plasma NAC levels that equalled those associated with therapeutic dosing or hepatoprotective effects in human beings. Conclusion: Transplacental transport of NAC is clinically insignificantin a mammalian model resembling the human being. These findings suggest that the human fetal liver is not protected from acetaminophen toxicity by maternal NAC therapy.
An approach to building the case for nutrition policies to limit trans-fat intake - a Singapore case study.

Abstract Objective At present, Singapore health authorities are deliberating nutrition labeling and regulations to reduce trans-fat in the food supply. This paper reviews the case for enacting nutrition policies to reduce population trans-fat intake in Singapore. It further proposes a decision-making framework that may inform other jurisdictions in assessing the merits of nutrition policies. Review framework This case study reviews the necessity of interventions to reduce trans-fat intake, appropriateness of a policy-based approach, and feasibility of trans-fat policies in the Singapore context. Evidence is drawn from national health reports, measures of stakeholder support, resources for implementing these policies, and results from international precedents. Results The burden of cardiovascular disease and excessive intake of trans-fat in the adult population warrant consideration of interventions to reduce excessive trans-fat intake. Labeling of trans-fat content and regulating usage of trans-fat in the food supply may be effective and feasible in the Singapore context. Stakeholder support for these policies was present from members of the public and health agencies. Conclusion Policy approaches to reduce trans-fat intake and cardiovascular disease risk in Singapore should be considered. The proposed nutrition policy decision framework may guide health agencies in assessing the appropriateness of trans-fat or other nutrition policies.
Alternative RNA splicing affects function of encoded platelet-derived growth factor A chain.

Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) is a basic protein of relative molecular mass 30,000 (Mr 30K) composed of two polypeptide chains, designated PDGF A and PDGF B1,2. The B-chain is encoded by the c-sis gene, the cellular counterpart of the simian sarcoma virus transforming gene v-sis1,3,4. The PDGF A-chain cDNA clones recently isolated and sequenced from a transformed human clonal glioma cell line represent at least two alternatively spliced transcript species differing by 69 base pairs at the C-terminus5. Here we demonstrate that the normal human umbilical vein endothelial cell (EC) A chain precursor lacks the 15 carboxy-terminal, highly basic amino acids encoded by the larger tumour cell cDNA. Surprisingly, culture media from monkey kidney cells (COS) transfected with the endothelial cDNA clone contained much less mitogenic activity than media from cells transfected with the longer tumour cell-derived A-chain cDNA. This functional difference appeared to be due to inefficient assembly or secretion of the recombinant endothelial-type growth factor. This suggests that some transformed cells may use alternative RNA splicing to modify normal growth factors and by so doing increase the efficiency of mitogen assembly or secretion.
DNA cross-linking studies on FR900482 : observations on the mode of activation

Abstract Cross-linking of duplex DNA by FR-900482 and its natural reduction product FR-66979 reveals that the parent drug (FR-900482) requires a full equivalent of thiol to effect cross-link formation; FR-66979 requires no reductive activation.
The Effects of Desiccation on Skull Bone Sound Speed in Porcine Models

Pre- and postdesiccation sound speeds through ex vivo porcine skull specimens were determined by time-of-flight measurements with propagated broadband pulses centered at 0.97 MHz (Phis12.7 mm, -6-dB bandwidth = 58%). The measured longitudinal sound speed in the 13 porcine samples (predesiccation average sound speed = 1727 plusmn 57 ms-1) changed by a statistically significant +2.3% after deionized water reconstitution (paired t-test, alpha = 0.05, p = 0.0332).
Automatic test case generation for Estelle

An automatic test case generation method for Estelle is proposed. A formal model is introduced to describe the dynamic properties of Estelle specifications so as to verify the difference between the behavior of the specification and the behavior of its models. Based on the difference, an algorithm is presented to produce test cases that can detect such implementation faults. The algorithm can generate test cases not only for single module specifications but also for systems containing multiple modules that run concurrently. In addition, heuristics are suggested to improve the performance of the test case generation process. >
Energy-linked Ion Translocation in Submitochondrial Particles III. TRANSPORT OF MONOVALENT CATIONS BY SUBMITOCHONDRIAL PARTICLES

Abstract 1. Energy-linked K+ uptake has been demonstrated in submitochondrial particles prepared by sonication of beef heart mitochondria in the presence of ammonia (A-particles) as well as in more highly resolved submitochondrial particles obtained by Sephadex and urea treatment of A-particles (ASU-particles). 2. Nigericin stimulated K+ accumulation by A-particles but was required for significant K+ uptake by ASU-particles. Since nigericin catalyzes a K+ for H+ exchange, the spontaneous uptake of K+ by A-particles may be mediated by a nigericin-like natural carrier similarly catalyzing K+ for H+ exchange. 3. A-particles and ASU-particles appeared to be highly permeable to NO3- and less so to Cl-. 4. The combinations of valinomycin plus NH4+ or valinomycin, nigericin, and K+, uncoupled A-particles reconstituted with purified coupling factors, and released respiratory control. In contrast to submitochondrial particles with respiratory control induced by oligomycin or dicyclohexylcarbodiimide, the particles supplemented with coupling factors catalyzed oxidative phosphorylation.
TISSUE FACTOR PATHWAY INHIBITOR AND THE REVISED THEORY OF COAGULATION

Tissue factor pathway inhibitor (TFPI) is a multivalent, Kunitz-type plasma proteinase inhibitor that regulates tissue factor-induced coagulation. TFPI directly inhibits activated factor X and, in a factor Xa-dependent fashion, produces feedback inhibition of the factor VIIa/tissue factor catalytic complex. The properties of this rediscovered inhibitor appear, at least in part, to explain the clinical requirement for both the extrinsic and intrinsic pathways of the cascade and waterfall theories of blood clotting and have led to a reformulation of the coagulation mechanism. In the revised hypothesis, factor VIIa/tissue factor is responsible for the initiation of coagulation, but owing to TFPI-mediated inhibition, sustained hemostasis requires the persistent and amplified procoagulant action of intrinsic factors VIII, IX, and XI.
Fourier Transform Infared Studies of Polymer Blends: IV. Poly (ɛ-Caprolactone) — Poly(Bis-Phenol A-Carbonate) System

Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) studies of the poly(bis-phenol A-carbonate) (PC) - poly(ɛ-caprolactone) (PCL) blend system are presented. This is a complex blend system containing two crystallizable polymers, with large differences in crystalline melting points and glass transition temperatures (Tg), which are compatible in the amorphous state. FTIR spectroscopy has proven to be an excellent technique with which to study these blends. Evidence for the presence of specific chemical interactions between the two polymers in the amorphous state, which infers compatibility, has been obtained. Furthermore, the crystallization of the components of this blend system are readily followed at room and elevated temperatures. Solvent and polymer induced crystallization and the role of the effective Tg of the amorphous phase of the blends in the crystallization of PC is discussed.
Optimal scheduling of rehabilitation activities for multiple pavement facilities: exact and approximate solutions

This paper presents a mathematical programming model for optimal highway pavement rehabilitation planning which minimizes the life-cycle cost for a finite horizon. It extends previous researches in this area by solving the problem of multiple rehabilitation activities on multiple facilities, with realistic empirical models of deterioration and rehabilitation effectiveness. The formulation is based on discrete control theory. A nonlinear pavement performance model and integer decision variables are incorporated into a mixed-integer nonlinear programming (MINLP). Two solution approaches, a branch-and-bound algorithm and a greedy heuristic, are proposed for this model. It is shown that the heuristic results provide a good approximation to the exact optima, but with much lower computational costs.
Chymotrypsin C (Caldecrin) Stimulates Autoactivation of Human Cationic Trypsinogen

Trypsin-mediated trypsinogen activation (autoactivation) facilitates digestive zymogen activation in the duodenum but may precipitate pancreatitis if it occurs prematurely in the pancreas. Autoactivation of human cationic trypsinogen is inhibited by a repulsive electrostatic interaction between the unique Asp218 on the surface of cationic trypsin and the conserved tetra-aspartate (Asp19-22) motif in the trypsinogen activation peptide (Nemoda, Z., and Sahin-Toth, M. (2005) J. Biol. Chem. 280, 29645-29652). Here we describe that this interaction is regulated by chymotrypsin C (caldecrin), which can specifically cleave the Phe18-Asp19 peptide bond in the trypsinogen activation peptide and remove the N-terminal tripeptide. In contrast, chymotrypsin B, elastase 2A, or elastase 3A (proteinase E) are ineffective. Autoactivation of N-terminally truncated cationic trypsinogen is stimulated approximately 3-fold, and this effect is dependent on the presence of Asp218. Because chymotrypsinogen C is activated by trypsin, and chymotrypsin C stimulates trypsinogen activation, these reactions establish a positive feedback mechanism in the digestive enzyme cascade of humans. Furthermore, inappropriate activation of chymotrypsinogen C in the pancreas may contribute to the development of pancreatitis. Consistent with this notion, the pancreatitis-associated mutation A16V in cationic trypsinogen increases the rate of chymotrypsin C-mediated processing of the activation peptide 4-fold and causes accelerated trypsinogen activation in vitro.
A Survey of Network Theoretic Approaches for Risk Analysis of Complex Infrastructure Systems

Many critical infrastructure systems are comprised of complex physical, geographical, and logical networks. Such systems include electric power, drinking water, wastewater, cellular communication, internet, and transportation. These systems are vulnerable to hazards, both natural (e.g. hurricanes and earthquakes) and man-made (e.g. terrorism and accidents), which can induce failures in network elements and reduce system performance. In conducting risk and reliability analyses for complex infrastructure systems, network theory has been used to understand the effect of perturbations of individual network elements on overall system performance. In this paper, we present a survey of research that has employed this network theoretic approach and provide a discussion of future research needs in the field.
Interface structures of III–V semiconductor heterostructures

We report first-principles calculations of the electronic and geometric structure of the (110) cross-sectional surfaces on InAs/GaSb superlattices and compare the results to scanning tunneling microscopy images of filled electronic states. We also study the atomic scale structure of (001) interface surfaces and the adsorption of deposited atoms on these surfaces to simulate the process occurring during the heterostructure growth. In both the predicted and measured images the InAs (110) surfaces appear lower than GaSb, a height difference we show is caused primarily by differences in the electronic structure of the two materials. In contrast, local variations in the apparent height of (110) surface atoms at InSb- or GaAs-like interfaces arise primarily from geometric distortions associated with local differences in bond length. We further observed that both Ga- and Sb-terminating (001) surfaces showed dimerization of surface atoms. Ga-terminating (001) surfaces exhibited substantial buckling of surface atoms while Sb-terminating (001) surfaces did not show appreciable buckling. The adsorption of arsenic atoms occurred preferably at the bridge sites between the dimerized Sb atoms on Sb-terminating (001) surfaces. Indium atoms, on the other hand, were observed to have somewhat equal probabilities to be adsorbed at a few different sites on Ga-terminating (001) surfaces. Our calculated energies for atomic intermixing indicate that anion exchanges are exothermic for As atoms on Ga-terminating (001) interfaces but endothermic for In atoms on Sb-terminating (001) interfaces. This difference may explain why GaAs interfaces are typically more disordered than InSb interfaces in these heterostructures. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2003
Pleiotropic Effects of Ubp6 Loss on Drug Sensitivities and Yeast Prion Are Due to Depletion of the Free Ubiquitin Pool

Mutation of the mouse Usp14 gene, encoding the homolog of yeast deubiquitinating enzyme Ubp6, causes ataxia. Here we show that deletion of the UBP6 gene in Saccharomyces cerevisiae causes sensitivity to a broad range of toxic compounds and antagonizes phenotypic expression and de novo induction of the yeast prion [PSI+], a functionally defective self-perpetuating isoform of the translation termination factor Sup35. Conversely, overexpression of ubiquitin (Ub) increases phenotypic expression and induction of [PSI+] in the wild type cells and suppresses all tested ubp6Delta defects, indicating that they are primarily due to depletion of cellular Ub levels. Several lines of evidence suggest that Ubp6 functions on the proteasome. First, Ub levels in the ubp6Delta cells can be partly restored by proteasome inhibitors, suggesting that deletion of Ubp6 decreases Ub levels by increasing proteasome-dependent degradation of Ub. Second, fluorescence microscopy analysis shows that Ubp6-GFP fusion protein is localized to the nucleus of yeast cell, as are most proteasomes. Third, the N-terminal Ub-like domain, although it is not required for nuclear localization of Ubp6, targets Ubp6 to the proteasome and cannot be functionally replaced by Ub. The human ortholog of Ubp6, USP14, probably plays a similar role in higher eukaryotes, since it fully compensates for ubp6Delta defects and binds to the yeast proteasome. These data link the Ub system to prion expression and propagation and have broad implications for other neuronal inclusion body diseases.
Comparative Study of Selective Media for Recovery of Yersinia enterocolitica

To determine the relative efficacy of pectin agar, cellobiose-arginine-lysine (CAL) agar, Y medium, cefsulodin-irgasan-novobiocin (CIN) agar, MacConkey (MAC) agar, and salmonella-shigella (SS) agar for the recovery of Yersinia enterocolitica, 35 strains of this organism representing the serotypes most commonly associated with human disease in Canada and the United States were inoculated on test media in pure cultures and mixed in fecal specimens. Randomly picked stool specimens were also cultured on these media to determine their selectivity. The ability of test media to support the growth of Y. enterocolitica strains varied markedly. Several strains failed to grow on Y medium, and a few failed to grow on SS agar. There were no significant differences in cultural characteristics and the recovery rates of Canadian and American strains. The combined recovery of the pure cultures of Y. enterocolitica on test media as compared with blood agar was MAC, 75%; SS, 48%; pectin, 70%; CAL, 62%; Y, 15%; and CIN, 85%. The selectivity of the test media expressed as the percent difference of the fecal colony counts obtained on blood agar and the selective media was MAC, 7%; SS, 50%; pectin, 4%; CAL, 65%; Y, >/=99.9%; and CIN, 95%. When stool suspensions containing 10(2) colony-forming units of the test strains were plated, CIN medium yielded 100% recovery of all 35 strains from all fecal samples. The combined recovery rate for other media was CAL, 63%; Y, 14%; and SS, 11%. With 10(1) colony-forming units, CIN yielded a 100% recovery of the test strains, whereas CAL, Y, and SS agar showed a 0% recovery. None of the test organisms was recovered on either MAC or pectin agar at either dilution. The inhibitory effect of Y medium for Y. enterocolitica could be overcome to some extent by reducing the sodium oxalate and sodium desoxycholate content of the medium. One such modified Y medium offered optimum selectivity and ensured greater recovery of Y. enterocolitica when compared with the Y medium. We found CIN agar by far the most effective medium for the recovery of Y. enterocolitica. This medium was highly selective and almost completely inhibited the fecal flora, while at the same time supporting luxuriant growth of Y. enterocolitica. On CIN agar, Y. enterocolitica colonies were distinctive in appearance and measured 1.5 to 4 mm in diameter within 20 to 40 h of incubation.
Integrating Genomics, Bioinformatics, and Classical Genetics to Study the Effects of Recombination on Genome Evolution

This study presents compelling evidence that recombination significantly increases the silent GC content of a genome in a selectively neutral manner, resulting in a highly significant positive correlation between recombination and "GC3s" in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Neither selection nor mutation can explain this relationship. A highly significant GC-biased mismatch repair system is documented for the first time in any member of the Kingdom Fungi. Much of the variation in the GC3s within yeast appears to result from GC-biased gene conversion. Evidence suggests that GC-biased mismatch repair exists in numerous organisms spanning six kingdoms. This transkingdom GC mismatch repair bias may have evolved in response to a ubiquitous AT mutational bias. A significant positive correlation between recombination and GC content is found in many of these same organisms, suggesting that the processes influencing the evolution of the yeast genome may be a general phenomenon. Nonrecombining regions of the genome and nonrecombining genomes would not be subject to this type of molecular drive. It is suggested that the low GC content characteristic of many nonrecombining genomes may be the result of three processes (1) a prevailing AT mutational bias, (2) random fixation of the most common types of mutation, and (3) the absence of the GC-biased gene conversion which, in recombining organisms, permits the reversal of the most common types of mutation. A model is proposed to explain the observation that introns, intergenic regions, and pseudogenes typically have lower GC content than the silent sites of corresponding open reading frames. This model is based on the observation that the greater the heterology between two sequences, the less likely it is that recombination will occur between them. According to this "Constraint" hypothesis, the formation and propagation of heteroduplex DNA is expected to occur, on average, more frequently within conserved coding and regulatory regions of the genome. In organisms possessing GC-biased mismatch repair, this would enhance the GC content of these regions through biased gene conversion. These findings have a number of important implications for the way we view genome evolution and suggest a new model for the evolution of sex.
Cloned Schistosoma mansoni proteinase (hemoglobinase) as a putative serodiagnostic reagent.

Expressed cDNAencoding a proteolytic enzyme fromSchistosoma mansonihasbeenclonedrecently. Circulating antibodies reacting withtherecombinant protein havebeendetected inthebloodofmiceand humansinfected withS.mansoni, S.japonicum, orS.haematobium. S.mansoni andS.haematobium infection canbedistinguished byantibody titer. Schistosomiasis, a majorparasitic disease, isassociated withsignificant morbidity andmortality inendemic populations andintravelers. Diagnosis isusually madebyvisualization ofparasite eggsinstools orurine. Thechronic nature ofthis infection, whichcan persist fordecades, results in cumulative damagetotheliver, spleen, andcolon. Early intervention witheffective chemotherapeutic agentsismost efficacious ifsensitive andspecific methodsfordetecting infection areavailable.
The extra differential gain enhancement in multiple-quantum-well lasers

By accounting for the unavoidable thermal population of injected carriers in the optical confining layers it is found that the use of MQW's (multiple quantum wells) as active regions actually leads to an extra increase in differential gain. Specifically, the maximum differential gain increases with the number of wells in the QW structures. The transparency current density in the MQW structure does not scale as the number of QWs. These conclusions are at variance with presently accepted theory and have major implications for the design of high-speed, low-threshold semiconductor lasers. >
Ossification of the Distal Femoral Epiphysis

1. Irregularities of the margin of the ossification center in the distal femoral epiphyses are extremely common in normal children. 2. Often the irregularities take a form roentgenographically indistinguishable from osteochondritis dissecans. Our data do not deny the existence of osteochondritis dissecans in the femora of children, but they do indicate that it is much less frequent than the marginal irregularities described. 3. The patients in this series were asymptomatic and, even in several omitted from the study because of mild symptoms, the changes disappeared without treatment. 4. The evidence strongly suggests that the roentgenographic appearance of osteochondritis dissecans can be simulated by a normal variant of ossification in children. 5. Since many of the irregularities are located on the posterior aspect of the femoral condyles, the irregularity will often be seen in the tunnel view, while the anteroposterior roentgenogram does not show it as clearly.
The basis for the increase in factor VIII procoagulant activity during exercise.

Abstract We studied the effect of acute exercise on the ability of thrombin to activate plasma factor VIII (FVIII) activity in 20 healthy males. The subject showed an average exercise-related increase in FVIII activity of 54.5 +/- 8.2% over pre-exercise FVIII activity (p less than 0.001). When exposed to the same concentration of thrombin, post-exercise FVIII activity showed greater enhancement than pre-exercise FVIII activity: 157.1 +/- 12.8% increase in activity versus 117.3 +/- 9.9%, respectively (p less than 0.01). The degree of the potentiated thrombin effect in post-exercise samples relative to pre-exercise samples was linearly correlated with the degree of the exercise-related increase in FVIII activity. Taken together with our previous observations that the extent of thrombin enhancement of FVIII activity varies inversely with the mole ratio of FVIII/von Willebrand factor subunits to thrombin, these findings imply that release of FVIII does not occur during exercise, and that the exercise-related increase in FVIII activity results primarily, if not completely, from activation of already circulating but inactive FVIII.
Bilateral gene interaction hierarchy analysis of the cell death gene response emphasizes the significance of cell cycle genes following unilateral traumatic brain injury

Delayed or secondary cell death that is caused by a cascade of cellular and molecular processes initiated by traumatic brain injury (TBI) may be reduced or prevented if an effective neuroprotective strategy is employed. Microarray and subsequent bioinformatic analyses were used to determine which genes, pathways and networks were significantly altered 24 h after unilateral TBI in the rat. Ipsilateral hemi-brain, the corresponding contralateral hemi-brain, and naive (control) brain tissue were used for microarray analysis. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis showed cell death and survival (CD) to be a top molecular and cellular function associated with TBI on both sides of the brain. One major finding was that the overall gene expression pattern suggested an increase in CD genes in ipsilateral brain tissue and suppression of CD genes contralateral to the injury which may indicate an endogenous protective mechanism. We created networks of genes of interest (GOI) and ranked the genes by the number of direct connections each had in the GOI networks, creating gene interaction hierarchies (GIHs). Cell cycle was determined from the resultant GIHs to be a significant molecular and cellular function in post-TBI CD gene response. Cell cycle and apoptosis signalling genes that were highly ranked in the GIHs and exhibited either the inverse ipsilateral/contralateral expression pattern or contralateral suppression were identified and included STAT3, CCND1, CCND2, and BAX. Additional exploration into the remote suppression of CD genes may provide insight into neuroprotective mechanisms that could be used to develop therapies to prevent cell death following TBI.
Osteogenic Sarcoma Arising from Bony Regenerate Following Ilizarov Femoral Lengthening Through Fibrous Dysplasia

Sarcomatous degeneration of fibrous dysplasia has been previously documented in rare cases, often in association with prior radiation therapy. This case report describes the occurrence of osteosarcoma arising in the distal femur of a 15-year-old male with previous biopsy-proven fibrous dysplasia, who had undergone limb lengthening through a distal femoral corticotomy using the technique described by Ilizarov. In addition, distraction osteogenesis through an area of fibrous dysplasia in the proximal tibia produced a new area of fibrous dysplasia in the regenerate tissue as shown by histopathologic examination. This case raises two questions: (a) whether the biologic stimulus of distraction osteogenesis through abnormal metaplastic bone increases the risk of malignant neoplasia, and (b) whether distraction osteogenesis through dysplastic bone is contraindicated, since the regenerate tissue does not form normal bone.
Quantitative imaging of surface deformation on substrata due to cell motility by digital holography

A convenient technique is introduced for quantitatively imaging surface deformation on soft material for cellular adhesion. Quantitative phase microscopy by digital holography is shown to provide efficient and versatile means for quantitatively analyzing cellular motility.
Photocatalytic Conversion of CO2 to Hydrocarbon Fuels via Plasmon-Enhanced Absorption and Metallic Interband Transitions

A systematic study of the mechanisms of Au nanoparticle/TiO2-catalyzed photoreduction of CO2 and water vapor is carried out over a wide range of wavelengths. When the photon energy matches the plasmon resonance of the Au nanoparticles (free carrier absorption), which is in the visible range (532 nm), we observe a 24-fold enhancement in the photocatalytic activity because of the intense local electromagnetic fields created by the surface plasmons of the Au nanoparticles. These intense electromagnetic fields enhance sub-bandgap absorption in the TiO2, thereby enhancing the photocatalytic activity in the visible range. When the photon energy is high enough to excite d band electronic transitions in the Au, in the UV range (254 nm), a different mechanism occurs resulting in the production of additional reaction products, including C2H6, CH3OH, and HCHO. This occurs because the energy of the d band excited electrons lies above the redox potentials of the additional reaction products CO2/C2H6, CO2/CH3OH, and CO...
Some Non-Nervous Factors that Condition the Sensitivity of Insects to Moisture, Temperature, Light and Odors.

Insects are so extraordinarily sensitive to moisture, temperature, light and odors that much of our recent investigation in entomology has centered on the problems of this super-sensitiveness. Just at present several large projects in economic entomology include experimentation on attractants while in other projects careful studies are being made of the correlation of possible spread with moisture and temperature conditions. All such studies presume sensitivity of insects to these factors.
A discussion of industrial subsidy policy in China compared with those in western countries

In the Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures (ASCM), subsidies are classified into three categories red or prohibited, yellow or actionable, and green or non-actionable. As a response to each category of subsidies the Agreement provides different remedies. This paper examines some subsidies practice conducted in the United States, European Union, and Brazil for their civilian aircraft industry and attempts to provide a workable pattern adjusting China's subsidy policy under the rules of WTO and ASCM. Suggestions were proposed as to how to perfect regulations and files, how to promote technology innovation, how to strengthen the covert subsidies, how to establish the governmental purchase policy and how to realize an indirect subsidization by the government.
Reevaluating geographic variation in life-history traits of a widespread Nearctic amphibian

Animals from cold environments are usually larger than animals from warm environments, which often produce clines in body size. Because variation in body size can lead to trade-offs between growth and reproduction, life-history traits should also vary across climatic gradients. To determine if life-history traits of wood frogs Rana sylvatica vary with climate, we examined female and male body length, clutch size, and ovum size from 37 locations across an unprecedented 32° of latitude. In conflict with recent research, body size, and ovum size decreased in cold climates and at higher latitudes. Clutch size did not vary with climate or latitude, but reproductive effort (clutch size:female size) did, suggesting selection for a life-history traits that favors maximizing propagule number over propagule size in cold climates. With accelerating climate change that will expose populations to novel environmental conditions, it is important to identify the limits of adaptation, which can be informed by greater understanding of variation in life-history traits.
Impaired ability of prostaglandins to buffer renal vasoconstriction in genetically hypertensive rats

The purpose of this study was to gain insight into the mechanism(s) responsible for the exaggerated angiotensin II (ANG II)-induced renal vasoconstriction during the development of hypertension. In previous studies we observed that ANG II produces a twofold larger decrease in renal blood flow (RBF) in spontaneously hypertensive (SHR) compared with Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats before but not after cyclooxygenase inhibition. We suggested that this strain difference could be attributed to differences in renal prostaglandin (PG) levels and/or action. To evaluate these possibilities, measurements of RBF were made in 6-wk-old, anesthetized SHR and WKY pretreated with indomethacin. ANG II was injected intrarenally before and during continuous intrarenal infusion of a low dose of PGE2, viprostol (PGE2 analogue), PGI2, iloprost (PGI2 analogue), and bradykinin. In the control period ANG II reduced RBF by 50% in both strains. Infusion of PGs reduced the vasoconstrictor effect of ANG II in WKY, but had no effect in SHR. I...
Current status of the implantable LVAD

With the ongoing shortage of available organs for heart transplantation, mechanical circulatory support devices have been increasingly utilized for managing acute and chronic heart failure that is refractory to medical therapy. In particular, the introduction of the left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) has revolutionized the field. In this review, we will discuss a brief history of the LVAD, available devices, current indications, patient selection, complications, and outcomes. In addition, we will discuss recent outcomes and advancements in the field of noncardiac surgery in the LVAD patient. Finally, we will discuss several topics for surgical consideration during LVAD implantation.
Shedding from the Cell Surface of Normal and Cancer Cells

Publisher Summary This chapter reviews the phenomenon of shedding of cell surface macromolecules, its role in normal membrane (glyco)protein turnover, and its importance in certain disease processes. Shedding is especially important in cancer cells where the release of cell surface components, such as proteases and adhesion molecules, occurs continually. The chapter discusses the cell surface of eukaryotic cells and the factors maintaining its stability; the synthesis, transport, and insertion of cell surface proteins and glycoproteins; and shedding during normal cell growth, its role in causing the phenotype of the mitotic cell, and its relationship to cell activation. It describes shedding from eggs, embryonic cells, retinal rods, lymphocytes, macrophages, and virus-infected cells. It also considers shedding from the cancer cell, as an extreme example of the activated cell, and the relationship between shedding and the cancer cell phenotype. Some possible consequences of shedding from the cancer cell is elucidated with respect to separation, infiltration, and metastases; abnormal hematological events such as enhanced coagulation and/or fibrinolysis and cryofibrinogenemia; immunological hyporesponsiveness and the role of various blocking and suppressor factors in its causation; and the appearance in the serum of certain enzymes such as glycosyl transferases that may be used for diagnostic purposes.
Examining users on news provider web sites: a review of methodology

This project implemented and reviewed several methods to collect data about users' information seeking behavior on news provider Web sites. While browsing news sites, participants exhibited a tendency toward a breadth-first search approach where they used the home page or a search results page as a hub to which they returned and then linked to other pages. Generally, they browsed before using search. Information seeking patterns were consistent within-user but varied somewhat across users. Most behaviors were characterized as visually scanning with users spending much time scrolling. The methods used to identify information seeking behavior: (a) information seeking trails, (b) interaction variance, (c) Web pages recurrence, (d) URL frequency, (e) browse behavior identification, and (f) sequence analysis appear particularly useful for detailed analysis of browsing behavior. They afforded information about browsing directionality, complexity, and temporal order. A profile of user browsing behaviors was outlined in the project.
Decay-accelerating factor: CD55, DAF

Publisher Summary This chapter provides a description of Decay-Accelerating Factor (DAF), which is a glycoprotein composed of four Complement Control Protein (CCP) repeat domains, a heavily glycosylated STP domain rich in serines, threonines, and prolines, as well as a GPI anchor. DAF is present on all blood elements and most other cell types. It is expressed in high levels on cells that line extravascular compartments. Soluble variants of DAF are found in body fluids. DAF functions intrinsically in cell membranes to protect host cells from autologous complement attack. It accelerates the decay of the classical and alternative C3 as well as C5 convertases. The purified protein, when added to cells, incorporates into their membranes and is functional. The regulation of expression varies from 2500 molecules/cell on erythrocytes to >100,000 molecules/cell on endothelial and epithelial cells.
Moderate endoplasmic reticulum stress activates a PERK and p38-dependent apoptosis

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) has the ability to signal organelle dysfunction via a complex signaling network known as the unfolded protein response (UPR). In this work, hamster fibroblast cells exhibiting moderate levels of ER stress were compared to those exhibiting severe ER stress. Inhibition of N-linked glycosylation was accomplished via a temperature-sensitive mutation in the Dad1 subunit of the oligosaccharyltransferase (OST) complex or by direct inhibition with tunicamycin (Tm). Temperature shift (TS) treatment generated weak activation of ER stress signaling when compared to doses of Tm that are typically used in ER stress studies (500–1000 nM). A dose-response analysis of key ER stress signaling mediators, inositol-requiring enzyme 1 (IRE1) and protein kinase R (PKR)-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK), revealed 20–40 nM of Tm to generate activation intensity similar to TS treatment. In parental BHK21 cells, moderate (20–40 nM) and high doses (200–1000 nM) of Tm were compared to identify physiological and signaling-based differences in stress response. Inhibition of ER Ca2+ release via ITPR activity with 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2-APB) or Xestospongin C (XeC) was sufficient to protect against apoptosis induced by moderate but not higher doses of Tm. Analysis of kinase activation over a range of Tm exposures revealed the p38 stress-activated protein kinase (SAPK) to display increasing activation with Tm dosage. Interestingly, Tm induced the extracellular regulated kinases (Erk1/2) only at moderate doses of Tm. Inhibition of ER transmembrane stress sensors (IRE1, PERK) or cytosolic signaling mediators (p38, Jnk1, Erk1/2) was used to evaluate pathways involved in apoptosis activation during ER stress. Inhibition of either PERK or p38 was sufficient to reduce cell death and apoptosis induced by moderate, but not high, doses of Tm. During ER stress, cells exhibited a rapid decline in anti-apoptotic Mcl-1 and survivin proteins. Inhibition of PERK was sufficient to block this affect. This work reveals moderate doses of ER stress to generate patterns of stress signaling that are distinct from higher doses and that apoptosis activation at moderate levels of stress are dependent upon PERK and p38 signaling. Studies exploring ER stress signaling should recognize that this signaling acts as a rheostat rather than a simple switch, behaving distinctively in a dose-dependent manner.